I hoped that no one would even casually observe them, though.

"Have you checked the batteries? Do you have a memory card in?" I asked her, worried that something would go wrong. I wanted to get as much reviewable information as possible from the meeting with the doctor, especially if he had relevant information that would help me find her.

"Stop worrying. It's ready to go," Janine reassured me. Her boyfriend smirked. I considered pouring my drink onto his lap.

"Okay then," I sighed, putting my cigarette out and wiping my sweaty palms on my pants. "I'll go ahead and go up to the bar. He should be here any minute, so make sure you're ready. But don't be too obvious, guys."

"We've got it, man," her boyfriend said.

Janine winked at me as I left the booth and made my way to the bar.

CASUAL OBSERVATION


Things are no longer as simple as they used to be.