Sorry it has been so long since I've updated – turns out that you have to do heaps of homework before you start year 12! Anyway, this chapters a little boring, next one will be better as the story gets going, I promise!
"I still think that we should wait and take my car," Mick grumbled as he slid into the passenger seat next to Josef. The vibrant red Porsche was anything but inconspicuous, particularly with its nearly black tinted windows. Dawn was approaching fast as Josef swung the car onto the highway out of town.
"Mick. I'm driving myself somewhere for the first time in years. Lets take the downgrading one step at a time. Besides, why would you want to drive something that was new 40 years ago?"
"It's a classic," Mick said pointedly, casting a sidelong look at his friend. "So do you plan on telling me where we are going?"
"I'm thinking Vegas."
Mick raised an eyebrow. "Vegas? Do you remember the last time we went to Vegas?"
Josef looked slightly uncomfortable. "We'll be fine as long as we avoid Elvis themed buildings. And blonde cheerleaders."
Mick laughed and shook his head. "Clearly you have forgotten what Vegas is like."
He switched on the stereo, smiling as the smooth sounds of Josefs music washed over him.
With Josef driving, the journey to Vegas took roughly six hours. Most passed in companionable silence, only broken by the occasional teasing of one of the pair. Driving through the city, Mick finally decided to ask where they were staying.
"So which luxury hotel do you have us checked into?"
Josef smiled, "Oh, well… How does the Skyloft at MGM Grand sound?"
Micks eyes widened. "Don't do anything by halves, do you? What happened to downgrading?"
Josef scoffed. "I am not staying at some dingy, two star motel because you have a problem with living the high life!" Mick rolled his eyes.
"OK. You're taking the bill, though."
"Like I ever thought the PI could afford it."
Mick felt like poking his tongue out at his old friend, but restrained himself. Then they turned into the entrance of the hotel and any protest died.
To say it was magnificent was like saying the Sistine Chapel was pretty. The building towered above them, elaborate stonework and impressive gardens living up to its reputation. Josef glanced at Micks open mouth.
"A bit better than last time, huh?"
Mick nodded. "You really like showing off, don't you?"
Josef shrugged. "Come on. Lets go check in. by the way, your name is now James Smith, and I'm your brother Alex. OK?" Josef climbed out of the car, nodding to the three workers waiting to take over. Two unpacked the bags from the boot while the other slid into the drivers seat.
Mick followed Josef silently into the lobby. The moment they walked in, a butler greeted them.
"Mr. Smith? This way, Sirs, your accommodation isn't far." Josef and Mick followed the butler, Josef looking far more comfortable than Mick.
The apartment was like something out of a dream. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms, each at the height of luxury, dominated the spacious area. It was incredible, Mick thought as he looked around. Josef had already left the butler, and was taking a look also.
"Hmm. Not bad," he said before disappearing into a bedroom. Mick grinned at his friend and his impeccably high standards.
Mick sat out on the balcony, looking up at the stars as it approached midnight. He couldn't help but wonder what Beth was doing, wonder if she was safe. He had already watched her broadcast for the day. Twice. Knowing that calling her was dangerous was the only thing stopping him from dialling that number just to hear her voice. He ran a hand through his hair in frustration, kicking his legs up onto the railing. Love really made things more difficult.
Josef had disappeared downstairs, to find some unsuspecting drunk to sip from. Mick wasn't expecting him back for a few hours. Bored and just a little lonely, Mick decided to take a trip to the gym that was a few floors down. That would keep him occupied for a while, and take his mind off that sinking feeling that had been bothering him all day. Somehow, he didn't believe Josef when he said that escaping the Hunters would be simple. And if that was true, it meant Beth, and everyone they cared about, were still in danger.
