"What is the convention about?" She asked.
"It's all apocalypse type stuff from movies, TV shows, and books. It's a big deal in North Texas."
She smiled. "Sounds like fun."
"Good, now go get me a coffee, and don't forget the #zarf."
"The what?"
"The cardboard thing."
***
"It has a name?" She asked.
"Everything has a name," I answered. "If you're going to that cafe across the street, I'll have a #chicken sandwich, too."
"Of course, your highness."
"Hurry up. They could move any second."
"Where are they?"
"They're sitting in a diner."
***
I knew they were at a diner because Stevie said it was a popular hangout for street people The owner often gave them food. We posted a couple of detectives there to keep watch. They were basically just #Kicking back and relaxing but they let me know that they were there.
***
Jaci came back with two coffees and a bag. She put the cups in their holders and was digging in the bag when I saw the tracker move.
"Buckle up. They're on the move."
"Where?"
"#Rock Ridge Trail, by the zoo. Maybe they have a house nearby," I replied as I headed there.
***
We drove around slowly as if we were looking for something. The tracker went crazy as we passed a burnt-#orange panel van sitting in a dilapidated driveway. Jaci scribbled down the plate number as we drove past and I pulled up to a house with a "For Sale" sign outside.
***
We used a #classic ploy. An open house. We got out of the car and walked to the front door. Jaci knocked while I furtively glanced at the van down the street. A man answered the door and Jaci moved her jacket a little and showed her badge.
He moved aside and let us in.
***
"How can I help you?" The man asked. "Are you interested in buying? The #chrome fixtures in the bathrooms and kitchen are brand new."
"Sorry, no. We just need to spend enough time in here to make it look like we had a tour. We're on surveillance."
"Then take the tour."
***
We agreed to the tour and spent almost an hour walking through the house. It was nice, open plan, with new appliances throughout. There was a lot to like, but I was most impressed with the glass #crane sculpture on a pedestal in the entryway. I asked if it was for sale.
***
"The sculpture was a gift. I'm sorry, it's not for sale," the man replied. "What about the rest of the house?"
"I love it," Jaci said. "I'm confused about the golf #club above the mantelpiece though."
"It's the club I used when I got my first hole-in-one years ago."
***
"What's the neighborhood like?" I asked, trying to #telegraph my intentions to Jaci.
"It's a great neighborhood, really quiet," the man replied, but was startled by his wife clearing her throat. "Well we do have one problem neighbor."
"Tell them the truth, George."
***
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