I said, “Yes. Do you have any idea where she might be?”
She pulled out her phone, “I’ll call her.” We waited. She frowned, “A recorded message says she’s not available. It didn’t even go to voicemail. What’s with that?”
“We’re not sure. But, if you hear from her, give us a call. Her parents are worried.”
“I will. Wow, this news is bringing me down, like big time.”
Hondo said, “Can we ask you a few questions?”
“Uh-huh.”
“Do you know any people she hangs out with, especially a group with long blond hair, looks kind of like an eighties band?”
“Electrical Testicle.”
Hondo coughed, then said, “Do they play anywhere around here?”
“Not regular, which is a shame, because they are really, really good. Every bit as good as Algonquin Rhino.”
I said, “Wow, that good.”
“You’ve heard them?”
“We haven’t been that lucky.”
Hondo said, “Where can we find our Testicle?” I glanced at him out of the corner of my eye. He smiled, all innocent.
“They’re usually here.” She tapped her finger on her lips as she thought. “Oh yeah, tonight they’re opening for another band at Amoeba Music.”
“Some good musicians play there.” Hondo said.
“I told you, they’re good.”
I said, “We’ll check them out this evening. Thanks.”
Amber smiled, and put her hand on my forearm. “You’re gorgesome.”
“What?”
“Gorgeous and handsome at the same time. Gorgesome.”
“Well, I have been working on improving my health and appearance.”
“You improve any more and I’m going to faint.”
I felt my face flush and my ego swell. I said, “Aw, I’m just your average guy.”
She hooked her arm in mine, “You’re not average, trust me. So, what time are you and Hondo coming to pick me up?”
“Where are we going?” I’d already forgotten.
“Amoeba Music, silly. I have to intro you to the band.”
Hondo said, “You tell us when, we’ll pick you up.”
She did.
We did.