An Agent Named Nicolas Flint

Case One Part 1

I thought of the small amount of information I received so far. Jenna and Nick looked nothing alike, which was understandable. She was his niece and could have a few reasons why there aren't any family resemblance. The cold way of speaking could just be how he was. Or he pushed his emotions down to deal with the case. Still, something felt very odd about the entire thing.

"So, what? You're asking me for help because you're her family and can't work the case? Is that it?" I asked, eyebrow raised.

"Correct. I cannot be on this case. You are the only private detective in this city. There are others more experienced with cases such as this, however they are too far away. I would like to start looking for her tonight if possible. I do not care about finding the one responsible for her disappearance. I would only want to find the girl safe." He explained while staring forwards.

I let what he said sink in. I wasn't convinced that this girl was his niece. But why lie about something like that? Questions ran through my mind over this stranger that I invited in my car. My phone pinged and I checked it on reflex. Nicolas stayed silent as I opened my email to see a notice from my bank. My heart was fluttering thinking what I was seeing was a mistake. Two grand was just deposited into my account from a company I've never seen before. I looked over at the agent in my car, his face impossible to read.

"I arranged payment for this case. That deposit was for your time hearing me out. You shall be paid more if you accept my request even if the girl is found or not. I just require your assistance while searching for her." The agent said and I felt myself sweating.

This didn't make sense. Who had this kind of money to toss around? Was he trying to lure me out to sell me into human trafficking or steal my organs? Why give me two grand to get me to go into the woods? I might be a private detective but that didn't mean I could see through his suspicious actions. Suddenly the agent slouched in his seat looking nervous as if he was spotted. I looked over to the motel to see the cheating husband come out and I snapped a few photos of him kissing someone who was not his wife. At least that job was wrapped up. Nicolas stayed hunkered down in his seat looking slightly worried. It was good to know he could express some emotions.

"What are you doing?" I asked after I finished taking the photos I needed.

"You said not to blow your cover." He answered innocently.

The promise of more money in my account, and his reaction was what sealed the deal. This guy didn't appear to be someone with a nefarious plot. I decided to trust him and take the job praying it wasn't a mistake.

"Where do you want me to meet you tonight?"

The next few minutes was him telling me when and where we should meet. Once all the details were clear he got out of the car and looked both ways before crossing the road and out of sight. I knew I could trust this guy but wondered what the hell I just got myself into.

I met Nicolas at the start of a local hiking trail at six PM that night. I was wearing comfy shoes for the trek. He was still in his suit and polished shoes.

"Are you going hiking in a suit and tie Nickie?" I asked looking him over. He didn't even have a bottle of water.

He again, looked confused and took out his notebook again to jot something down. Snapping it shut he nodded.

"I work a lot and do not own that much casual clothing." He replied.

I wondered if he slept in a suit but kept that to myself. I started along the trail with him close behind. I kept my eyes open but didn't know what we were looking for. Having a dog to track down the scent would be nice. I've never been a part of a search party in the woods and doubted this trip would result in anything but wasted time.