This had better not be a novella.
Jill looked around. “I really don’t get it,” she said. “I mean, sure, it’s got ambiance, but it’s still on the surface. The sun’s gonna come out at some point.”
“We don’t hate the sun,” said Maddie. “Within limits.”
“We don’t hate the sun, either,” said Jack. “It’s just too bright and burns our skin.”
“There are creams for that,” said Anton.
“Yes, I know, your brother sells them for cheap — wait up.”
The five stopped. Maddie looked at Jack. “Get something?”
Jack and Jill both nodded. “Faint, but it’s there,” said Jill. “We’re gonna separate and triangulate the scent, but five bucks says it’s gonna be coming from the old high school.”
“No bet,” said Maddie. “That was always going to be the best bet for the lair.”
“Yeah,” said Jack. “But it’s nice to have that confirmed.”
“If you do confirm it, Jack.” Maddie stopped for a moment. “You two need backup?”
Jill and Jack looked at each other, then Jill shook her head. “Not this time,” she said. “We won’t need to move too far apart to get distance and direction, I think. The smell’s pretty pungent.”
“I’ll take your word for it,” Anton said sardonically as he checked the pressure on his air rifle. “My nose is stuffed up today, for some reason.”
“It’s not stuffed up, dear,” said Susan. “It’s back in Providence.”
“Is it? Damn,” said Anton mildly. “I’m always forgetting something.”