You'll Find Me Under the Stars

{Max}

I wandered the streets of Moscow. I was familiar with most of the landmarks and roads but much had changed since I had moved. Houses that were once towering like mighty gods were gone. New churches replaced old ones. New businesses overtook outdated ones. I still remembered where my childhood house was. Or had been. It was torn down and now a barren lot lay in its wake.

I sighed. Enough reminiscing. Moscow was my first place of searching. I had only truly arrived this morning and it was already late afternoon. Evening was drawing to a start in only an hour or so. I should return to the hotel room I had gotten and begin getting ready.

*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*

Magic. That’s what it took to smuggle my handguns and automatic rifles onto the plane. Then again, I did have some assistance. There were few but handy outcomes from working for Dmitri. I had friends in high places. Not only that but also I had friends that appreciated me much more than Dmitri. Even others that hated him with such fervency, were my newest of companions.

I, however, carried little artillery with me in the same place. I had a few guns stashed at a local restaurant. The owner had been a good friend to my father. So he was more than welcome to show me the same kindness he had expressed to my old man.

I adjusted my backpack on my shoulder with a sigh. It was nearly three in the morning and I still hadn’t found her. I didn’t lose hope, though. This was only the first night. I knew I wouldn’t find her this fast. But my heart still ached and I felt as if I had failed Desiree.

My love - my heart was enduring my worst nightmares. Or that’s what I was assuming. The thought added to my driving force. I will find her. Even if it took my last breath to do so.