Page 85 of Haze of Obedience
He chuckles. "That would be nice."
"When does the construction start?"
"A week from today. Did they not tell you about it at check-in?"
I snap my fingers. "It was mentioned, but I didn't pay close attention. Okay, we'll take the North walkway."
"Okay, Sir. Have a great evening." He leaves, and we step out of the hot tub.
"What now?" Zoe asks.
I take the towel and wrap it around her. "You get to see my real criminal skills."
"Oh?"
"Yep. Come on." I lead her through the pool area and glance around to make sure no one is watching us. Instead of taking the North path, I take the South.
The young man wasn't exaggerating. There are pallets of materials everywhere.
We walk for ten minutes, and it begins to sprinkle. I tug Zoe closer. We get to one of the rooms in the middle of the complex. I dig into my rucksack and find my small case that has several tools. I take one out and pick the lock on the door then open it. "After you."
Zoe claps her hands. "Bravo."
I step behind her and shut, then lock and bolt the door.
She flips the switch, but I turn it off right away.
"We can't have lights on."
"Sorry. Duh."
I remove a pocket flashlight from my bag. "Use this sparingly." I double-check that the curtains are closed.
"Is it crazy that I'm excited about a real bathroom?"
"Nope. Have at it."
"Is it okay to shower?"
"I don't see any reason why you can't."
"There isn't a window in the bathroom. Can I use the light?"
"Sure."
"Should I shower now?"
"If you want."
Silence.
"Zoe, you okay?"
"Yeah. Here. You take the flashlight while I'm in there." She hands it to me.
I take it, but she doesn't move. I put my hand on her cheek. "What's going on, my Little Diva?"
"I haven't said thank you for helping me."
