Page 54 of Petals and Fangs

“Yes, I can see that,” I laugh, shaking my head.

“And this is the laptop I personally use to track the products that go out.”

“Don’t you have people specialized enough to do that?”

“Yes, Lily, I do. But I can’t help to do things on my own sometimes.”

“Ethan, I love your enthusiasm, but I am not sure why you are showing me all of this.”

“Because I need your help.”

“Me? I don't know anything about this kind of stuff, Ethan.”

“But you have an eye for detail. I need your help making sure nothing is suspicious, and everything is perfect.”

“Ethan, I am not sure what you are talking about,” I avoid looking at him. I know he knows something, but I can't put a finger on what it is.

“Lily, please. This is important.”

“Okay, fine. I will help you. I will at least try to. I am still not sure what kind of help is needed from me, though, but I am willing to try.”

“Thank you. Now, would you look at this guy right here?” he says, as he points at the screen. The profile shows a picture of a young man, in his early twenties, and it looks like an ID photo of some kind.

“Are we looking at something pertinent?” I say, laughing nervously.

“Yes, we do. But do you think he looks suspicious?” he asks, his hand placed on the edge of the desk.

“He looks like a regular guy.”

“Right. But do look at his profile.”

“Ethan, I am not sure if this is a good idea. I feel like I am invading someone's privacy,” I say as I stare at him. I can see a sparkle in his eyes, but it is not his usual playful one. There is something else there.

“Look at the details,” he continues, pointing at the screen, right at the shipping address.

“His name is Demetrius Daire, and that is the address he provided to the company.”

“Do you think it is legitimate?”

“It is a residential area.”

“Oh,” I nodded.

“But an abandoned one.”

“What?” I turn to face him, frowning.

“Look closer.”

I lean over to examine the screen.

“Is it a street or an address?”

“Neither.”

“Ethan, is this a joke? Why would anyone provide an abandoned address?”

“You tell me. Maybe he doesn't want to be traced.”

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