Kira’s Missing

Austyn arrived at Adis Road in nine minutes. Gideon waved at him. A white Audi A5 Sportsback was parked on the side of the road, its bonnet raised. ‘Your car broke down?’ Austyn glanced at the Audi. Gideon nodded. ‘I thought it was trouble with the alternator. Tinkered with it for a while, but no dice. You came fast.’ ‘I was on my way to the office just now. It’s not far from here. Is this a rental?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Call the rental company. Get them to tow the car away.’ ‘I did. They’re on their way.’ ‘Then you can leave it here. I’ll give you a ride.’ ‘Appreciate it.’ Gideon got in the front passenger seat. Austyn started the car. Three minutes of silence later, Gideon asked, ‘What’s wrong? You’re quieter than usual. Am I keeping you from something?’ ‘No.’ Austyn kept his eyes on the road. ‘It’s not you.’ ‘Someone else then. Seeing how you’re a married man—trouble on the home front?’ Austyn neither confirmed nor denied it. ‘How about you? How’s it going with your treasure hunt?’ Gideon sighed