Disclaimer:

I do not own either of the Mission: Impossible series or any of the characters therein. I receive no compensation or other tangible benefit from this story. I am just a fan who enjoys taking the team out for an adventure every now and then. :)


Chapter 2

"Max, I can't thank you enough for letting me crash here while the exterminators descended upon my place," Nicholas smiled as Max helped him load his suitcases into the trunk of the gray BMW.

Max grinned back at his friend. "Well, it was only for three days," he quipped. "I suppose I can get along with anyone for three days."

Nicholas feigned offense. "Hey, I'm not that hard to live with," he said in mock protest. Then he turned serious. "Do you think we'll have another mission soon?"

"I hope so," Max replied. "I could use a little excitement. You've seen firsthand how boring my life is."

Nicholas grinned and shook his head. Max was certainly in rare form today. He slammed the trunk, then extended his hand. "Thanks, again, pal. I'll return the favor someday."

"I'll see to it," Max replied, returning the handshake and thumping his friend enthusiastically on the shoulder. Then Nicholas got into his car and drove in the direction of his apartment.


The man smiled as he saw the gray BMW approaching him. Nicholas pulled into the adjacent parking spot and rolled down the driver's side window.

"Your key, Mister Black," he said, as he handed Nicholas the key to his apartment. "All clear. No sign of critters."

"Thank you so much," Nicholas answered warmly. "I'm sure I'll sleep well tonight knowing that."

As Nicholas retrieved his bags from the trunk and entered the apartment, the man smiled wickedly. "Oh, you'll sleep well," he murmured. "Very well indeed."


Nicholas winced as his phone rang. "Hello?"

"Howdy, partner! Miss me yet?" came Max's unmistakable voice.

"Hi, Max," responded Nicholas quietly.

Immediately Max became alarmed. "What's wrong, buddy? You sound tired."

"Headache," he replied, rubbing his temple with his free hand. Then, sensing Max's worry, he added, "I'll be okay."

"Class today?" Max asked.

"No. Some college event. The president cancelled all classes for today."

"Then maybe you should just try to get some rest," Max suggested.

"Yeah, that's not a bad idea," affirmed Nicholas. "I may just do that."

"All right, Nicholas. I'll check in with you later then. Hope you feel better."

"Thanks."

Nicholas hung up the phone, deciding Max was right. He could do with some rest. He went upstairs to lie down.

Little did he know that the rest would cause him to feel worse instead of better...

tbc...