Chapter 6

CHAPTER 6 "You guys up?" Michael's dad called from outside the tent. Justin cracked open his eyes to see the dim light of daybreak. "Ummhmm," he managed to groan out in response. "Okay. Let's get packed up. We've got a long day," Dr. Gomez said.

"C'mon, Michael. You heard him." Justin flopped an arm onto Michael's cot. His hand landed with a thud on an empty sleeping bag. Justin shot up, suddenly 100 percent awake. "Oh no!" he shouted out without thinking. "Everything all right?" Dr. Gomez called. Justin started to panic. He needed to buy some time to think. "Uh, yeah... everything's fine," he called. Maybe Michael got up to go to the bathroom, Justin thought. No. His dad would have seen him. Justin's eyes shot around the tent. Michael's boots, backpack, flashlight— all gone. He must have snuck away to the cave during the night. The fact that he wasn't back yet could not be good. Maybe he hasn't been gone for long and will be here any minute. Justin sat back down with a thud on his cot. He knew better. Michael slept like a rock. He had to have left before he fell asleep, which meant he had been gone all night. "Boys?" Dr. Gomez called out again. "Up and at 'em!"

Now Justin had a decision to make. Should he cover for his buddy? If Michael went back into that cave, his dad will be furious! he thought. Or should he sound the alarm? If he's lost in that cave, his dad being upset will be the least of his worries. Justin knew what he had to do. The zipper on the tent door slid down, and Justin popped his head out. "Um... Dr. Gomez?"