Page 9 of Endless Whispers

“The man went in with them and more than that, I looked up the practice and the doctor is the husband of one of the women on the board of directors for New Day. These women have nowhere to turn. Around every corner is another person in this web of lies. It’s got to be so defeating.”

“I saw it in Rose’s face. She’s so beat down. And I’m sure even if one woman thought she could get her child out, all the other women and children would pay the price.”

“Tonight we ask more questions. Get more answers. The busiest place these sales are going down is a dance club called Dandelions. It should be busy enough to get in and get some face time with one of the women away from her handler. The more we find out about these buildings and the layouts and security, the better shot we have of rescuing these children.”

“I can’t go in. I can have communication with you from the car, but I don’t want to blow my cover. Are you suggesting, you’re going to be the cool hip guy at the club tonight?”

“I brought a change of clothes.” He chuckled and gestured to the back of the car. “And lots of body spray and a gold chain. I’ll fit right in.”

“I guess there is always a creepy guy at the bar. You can fill that role tonight.”

“Just promise you won’t get jealous when the ladies are all over me.”

“Cross my heart.” She made the sign and gestured for him to get ready.

Mick changed into a more casual outfit in the back of the car, opting for dark jeans and a black jacket. He placed a gold chain around his neck. “No peeking,” he teased.

“I’ve seen it all before. We’ve been working together so long I know what you’ve got going on there.”

“Dammit,” he groaned.

“What?” She was holding in a laugh as he tugged on the black jacket with too many zippers and buttons.

“You were right I look creepy as hell. I wasn’t going for that look, but here we are.”

As they parked near Dandelions, a pulsing nightclub with neon lights and a thumping bass that shook the ground, Charlize glanced at Mick, concern etched in her features.

"You sure you can pull this off, Mick? You're not exactly known for your clubbing skills. Do you even dance?"

Mick smirked. "I'll have you know, I used to cut a mean rug back in the day. Plus, I've got a charming personality, remember? That will take me plenty far." He winked at her.

Charlize rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile. "Just be careful, alright? We need information, not trouble. I can’t go in there no matter what. If you’re getting your ass kicked, you’re on your own. Just keeps your coms on so I can hear you getting beat up."

“I don’t think I’d want you coming in to fight my fight anyway. I’d rather get my ass kicked. Make sure you sit tight in here and enjoy the snacks and free time while I’m in there doing the heavy lifting.”

“Excuse me, I’m the one going into an office every day dressed in a bunch of clothes that are trying to choke me to death and listening to a lady named Susan tell me how her four boys don’t call her anymore now that they’re married. You’re going to be sipping drinks and people watching.”

“See you in a few,” he said, giving her a knowing nod. This was how they always left it when they went their separate ways on a mission. It wouldn’t be a few minutes. It would probably be hours. But this is what they always said, and it was nice to hear him say it again.

“In a few,” she replied quietly as he stepped out of the car. She tested the coms and tried to be patient. It was never fun being the one waiting around.

CHAPTER 9

MICK

With an air of disinterest, Mick made his way into the club, the music growing louder with each step. The place was packed with people dancing, drinking, and attempting unsuccessfully to shout over the music. He headed to the bar as if the most important thing on his mind was a cold drink.

As Mick leaned against the bar, he ignored the fact that he looked out of place. The dimly lit club was filled with young, energetic patrons, and he felt like a relic from another era. But he had a mission to accomplish. He ordered a drink and scanned the crowd, looking for any women who might fit the profile of someone involved in the organization.

After a while, he spotted a woman sitting alone at the far end of the bar. She had an air of confidence about her, and her eyes were constantly scanning the room. Mick decided to make his move. He walked over and took a seat next to her, flashing his most charming smile.

"Hey there," he said, trying to sound casual. "I love this song.”

The woman turned to him, sizing him up with a critical gaze. "Oh really? Who sings it?”

“You caught me. I’ve never heard this before in my life. I was supposed to meet a date here and she never showed. I’m trying to decide if I should bail or see if there is anything decent to hang around here for.” He shot her a glance.

“Depends on what you're looking for," she replied, her voice low and sultry.

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