Abduction

Gary stowed the bottle under the front seat. According to the latest weather report, the evening was supposed to be clear with a full moon. The temperature was predicted to drop below zero, but he didn't feel cold. He was too focused to notice the chill spreading through his car.

The engine ticked, slowly releasing the last dregs of heat. Gary patted  his pocket to make sure the keys were still there. The adhesive on his sideburns stretched his skin uncomfortably, and the wig itched, but he couldn’t chance any passersby recognizing him.

Six long days ago his office phone rang. He answered, and got the shock of his life. Someone had abducted Shannon. He was so shaken he couldn't make even simple numbers add up. 

When he met Shannon it was mutual love at first sight. They reveled in each other. They both enjoyed the outdoors and long afternoon naps on the weekends. Gary found himself working even harder at the CPA firm so he could buy her the best of everything. He would do anything for her, even break the law to get her back.

So here he sat at the bottom of the ski hill, waiting for the abductor and the return of his beloved Shannon.

As dusk deepened, leaving the mountain in silhouette and adding mystery to its very existence, a van slowly rolled up. Gary exited his car.

“Did you bring it?”

“Here you go.” 

Gary passed the bottle of Colt 45 to the pimply teenager and in return, took Shannon in his arms. The tiny Yorkie licked his face and yipped in relief.