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We sat in silence. This was a lot to take in. At the moment, it seemed like Mother had intentionally left out a number of details during the briefing. Either that, or she was being kept in the dark regarding a lot of operational details. It wasn't a good sign.

I chose to refrain asking my new guest any further questions. If she wanted to spill, she'd do it on her own accord. “Would you like a drink? Coffee? Tea?” I asked. “I'm fine. Thanks,” she declined politely. I shrugged and sat down.

I sat at the computer and stared at the screen. Here I was, looking for a vacation, a small break from the hustle and bustle of life. Mother had kindly made the arrangement, although it came with a job and some conditions. The job was done. I'd just finished unpacking and setting things up in the apartment, and here I was, wondering if I'd been duped with a bad bargain.

“What are you thinking about?” Jessica asked. I looked at her. She had dark brown hair and almond shaped hazel eyes. If I were to guess, she was about my height, maybe an inch or two shorter. No doubt athletic, and carrying. She hadn't taken off her coat. Was she here to do me? Was I a loose end? Was the scream a distraction?

Mother hadn't told me there'd be familiar company in the building. And she had explicitly told me there were no files; no records. Only some standard logs to track all the events. Was she lying to me? Had she lied all along?

“Roy? Are you okay?” Jessica asked. I closed my eyes and sighed, “If this is a prank, it's a very bad one.” “It's not a prank,” she replied.

We stared at each other. “Are you here to hurt me?” I asked. She shook her head, “No.” She looked sincere. I believed her. “Okay,” I nodded, “There's a gun in your coat. Don't reach for it. No sudden movements. I want you to tell me everything. From the start. Don't leave out any details. Don't lie to me. And don't joke. Understood?” “Yes.”