Page 108 of Mission: Possible

"You won't. The truck was found along the highway with some kid driving it," said Solomon. "Zach gave him the keys."

"Smart of Zach. Send everyone one way and go the opposite direction."

"I don't see a car that looks like Sophie's either," I said, looking around the lot. A sporty car like hers would have stood out amongst the trucks, compacts, and two large minivans.

"What's the layout of this place?" asked Solomon.

"There's a chalet over there that serves as the reception and meeting area," I said, pointing to the path I took before, "and then a bunch of paths and clearings with various obstacles and platforms for climbing and rappelling."

"We should go to the chalet first," said Maddox. "I don't want to walk miles into the woods; plus, it's too easy for Zach to hide amongst the trees."

"This way," I said, taking off, the men following me.

"You've met the woman with the tattoo before?" asked Solomon.

"A couple of times."

"We shouldn't all go in at once in case we spook her. You go in first and speak to her. Find out if she’s seen Zach or has plans to meet with him."

"Where will you be?"

"Outside. I'll see if there's an employee area and check it out."

"I'll come in with you," said Maddox.

"Me too," said Farid.

"And you?" I asked Delgado.

"I'll take a look around," said Delgado. "No point in us all going in. She might relate better to you as a woman."

"And to us as law enforcement," said Maddox.

"Let me talk to her before you flash your badges," I said as we reached the doors. We stepped back when a small crowd of teenagers bustled out, their helmets and climbing gear on. One of the girls loudly complained about her nails and an adult chastised her while holding the door for us. The group sulked away, quickly lost behind a thicket.

Nobody manned the desk so I walked over and rapped my knuckles on it as Maddox and Farid fanned out to the sides. They waited where they couldn't be seen at the side of the storeroom.

Vanessa emerged from the storeroom. "The last group just went out," she said. "Can I help you?"

"Remember me?" I asked.

"Sure. You came here to talk to Zach about his sister," she said, nodding. "How's she doing?"

"Not so great. Someone tried to murder her today."

Vanessa gasped, "What? That can’t be true!"

"Vanessa, I'm going to be straight with you. I need to find Zach."

"He isn't here right now."

"Has he been here?"

She gave an uncomfortable glance over her shoulder, then shook her head. "He's not working today," she said.

"Are you sure?"

She tilted her head. "I think I'd notice if he were here," she said in a bored tone.

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