Chapter 9

The Chase

Paddy’s boat had a powerful engine. It took only thirty seconds for the trio to catch up to the other boat. Paddy pulled in close behind it and honked his horn. He grabbed a nearby megaphone.

“I have your boys,” he said, his voice booming. “Slow down so they can board.”

Surprisingly, the thief did what Paddy suggested. He pulled over to the side of the river, next to a pedestrian walkway. But instead of waiting for Jack and Max, the thief killed the engine, jumped out of the boat, and began to run.

“Huh?” said Paddy, scratching his head. “Where’s your dad off to?”

Paddy parked his boat along the walkway too, just behind the other boat.

“And why’s he got a mask on?” he added.

Jack signaled to his brother. He’d go after the crook while Max retrieved their belongings from the other boat.

“It’s just a little game of ‘hide-and-seek’ that we play,” said Jack, climbing out of the boat and trying to act natural.

“Thanks for the ride,” said Max, climbing out too.

“Don’t mention it,” said Paddy, tipping his head to the boys. “Take care.”