Frank took another deep drag of the Camel, the short cigarette already two-thirds burned.<br/><br/>"Do you know something that you shouldn't? Is that why the boys in Chicago want you?"<br/><br/>Lauren gave no reply at first before offering a quick, blink-and-you'll miss it nod.<br/><br/>Frank was interested. He leaned back and regarded the bikini-clad redhead. "You don't say," he said, the unintended pun he used going over his own head. "OK."<br/><br/>He frowned. This would be so much easier if Lauren was allowed to talk. But removing her gag wasn't on the table.<br/><br/>He sighed, wondering how to proceed in yes or no questions. "How about this. Are you afraid for your life?"<br/><br/>Big nod, with no pause.<br/><br/>"Let me tell you something. As far as I know, the boys back in Chicago want you alive and in good condition. And not so they can just go ahead and ice you. So maybe that will make you rest easy...Lauren."<br/><br/>Even Frank was getting tired of calling her songbird. Using her first name seemed much more appropriate now that they were having this conversation, albeit of the one-way variety.<br/><br/>Frank looked at her suitcase, then back at Lauren.<br/><br/>"When I take a job I don't ask too many questions. But I never take a job if I think the target I'm delivering is going to be iced. I may be an asshole at times but I'm not a heartless prick."<br/><br/>He stood and paced a little, stubbing the Camel out in the ashtray. "I'm heading out for beer and snacks. Then we'll get you packed, your car cleaned out and then we'll head to our next destination."<br/><br/>Frank went to Lauren and inspected her bonds carefully. He tugged on everything and even adjusted her gag---untying the outer layer, tightening the bandana and retying the pillow case strip over her gagged mouth.<br/><br/>"OK everything should hold you. I won't be gone long. There's a general store less than a mile away. Be a good girl, Lauren."<br/><br/>Frank flicked on the radio to give the room some noise that would assist in drowning out whatever sounds the captive singer could warble.<br/><br/>He gave her one last glance before leaving.<br/><br/>"See ya in a bit."<br/><br/>Then, he was gone.