97 Strike While Its Dark (1/2)
”What?” Kiko asked in disbelief. ”This is your plan?”
”Yes, of course,” the old man replied. ”We have to blend with the crowd. We must not move suspiciously. Let's join them in the tour-”
”Then we'll break free and go at the back of the building,” Bogart interrupted.
Mang Tomas nodded.
”And then we'll raid the control room or whatever it is called,” Tonton said.
The three nodded in understanding. Finally, they had a solid plan. Carefully, they entered the building and joined the people. Everyone was busy talking so the boys and Mang Tomas easily slipped in.
”Where is the door going to the back?” Kiko asked.
”I think it is there,” Tonton answered and pointed at the right direction.
”Are you sure?” Bogart then asked.
”Not really, but I think I am right. When I and Jamie went here last time, I saw a way leading out through this way.”
”Alright,” Mang Tomas said, ”let's go that way. I think it is our best chance.”
Slowly, they walked backwards towards the end of the queue. There were several offices in that direction but Mang Tomas was quite certain there was a door there leading to the back. When they were finally a good distance from the last person in the crowd, he gently clapped his hands.
”Hurry, boys,” Mang Tomas said. ”Follow me.”
They walked briskly and were about to enter an open door when a voiced spoke from behind them.
”Where are you going?” a man's voice reverberated in the empty hallway. ”You are not supposed to be here.”
Their hearts beat wildly. They had just been caught and they needed to do something to escape the man. So far, no one had seemed to think of anything. They were about to turn their heads around when the lights suddenly went off. Ladies and children screamed in panicky surprise.
”Come on,” Tonton said sternly and quickly took Mang Tomas' and Kiko's hands.
He pulled them strongly, beckoning them to follow him. Swiftly, Mang Tomas grabbed Bogart's shoulder and the four ran as hard as they could while holding each other. Tonton led them on reflex and before they knew it, Mang Tomas grabbed hold of a door handle. It appeared to be locked but after a vehement shaking, the handle gave in and the door opened. The four instantly inhaled the night's cold breeze and smiled, believing they succeeded. Bogart jumped in joy but he lost footing and balance that he tripped over, knocking down his buddies as well so that the four of them fell on the moist grass. They chuckled, happy for their first success for the night.
”Get yourselves together, boys,” Mang Tomas commented as he stood up. ”We are still starting.”
Immediately, the three friends stood up and shook off the leaves and dirt clinging on their short pants.
”Yeah,” Bogart agreed. ”There are lights everywhere except here.”