Page 3 of Jacqueline's Quest

A long shadow appeared in front of him, seconds before Jaq placed her hand on his shoulder and handed him a bottle of water. “I’m sorry, Murray. I know this is a shock. My tact is lacking.”

Murray gave a watery laugh. “Don’t think there’s an easy way to break this kind of news.”

“True, I could have eased the blow a bit more, though.” She kneeled beside him. “If you’ll give me a chance, I’d like to explain more.”

“Sure.”

She sighed. “Three years ago, my autistic brother disappeared.”

Murray lifted his gaze to her. “What?”

"Yeah." She rubbed her forehead. "I've been trying to get into that fucking place since I found out Christian was there. Unfortunately, due to the rules, singles aren't allowed in there, it's a couples-only club."

Murray groaned as his stomach pitched again. “Fuck.”

“I have gone to the police. The government. I have tried everything to close this place down.”

“Let me guess, the cartel owns it, and everyone inside is corrupt?” Murray cocked a brow.

“Good guess,” she said. “It is run by the Nieto Cartel. All government officials get kickbacks and membership. They're sick mother fuckers.”

Bebito sat down in front of Murray and whined before licking his face. “Is your brother still in there?”

She nodded. “I've caught a couple of glimpses of him over the years. It's why I called Tex. I saw this girl, she was white. Pretty thing. In a purple wheelchair. She didn't fit the norm. All the...”

“Freaks,” he grunted.

"They're Mexican. She stood out. I don't know how long she's been there. Physically, she appears well. Mentally..." Jaq shrugged. "Anyway, I told Tex what I saw, and he jumped on it."

“So, what’s your plan?”

She grinned. “Now that I’m not alone...”

“We’re going in? But won’t they know you?” Murray drank down the water then grimaced when his stomach cramped due to how cold it was.

“No. No one on the inside saw me. Together, we’ll pose as a couple looking for a little entertainment,” she stated. “However, I have one favor to ask of you.”

“Shoot, you’re doing this for me,” he said. “Ask away.”

“Can you get another couple out here? Patrons are only allowed, one person... Toy. Your sister and my brother are our priority, but...”

“Say no more,” he said. “I’ll make the call.”

Jaq helped him up. “Let’s go inside. I have some information for you to go over, and then we’ll start coordinating with our new team.”

“Lead the way.” Murray glanced out over the property as they made their way back to the house.Hang on a little longer, Hannah. I’m coming.

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