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."