Page 60 of Worship Him

The city streets blur as I navigate through traffic, constantly checking my rearview mirror for any signs of pursuit. My phone continues to buzz, vibrating on the passenger seat. I ignore it, focusing on the road ahead.

Two hours. Just two hours until we reach the cottage. The thought of the secluded lakeside property Adam and I bought together during happier times brings a pang of nostalgia and pain.

"We’ve got this," I whisper, more to myself than to Avery.

As we hit the highway, I feel a small sense of relief. The open road stretches before us, promising escape, if only temporary. I glance at Avery through the rearview mirror. She's fallen asleep, her tiny fist curled around the ear of her stuffed elephant.

"We'll figure this out, baby," I promise, determined.

The familiar landscape gives way to rolling hills and dense forests. My shoulders begin to relax as the city fades behind us.

Finally, I feel comfortable enough take a deep breath.

The cottage. Our refuge. A place to think, to plan, to breathe.

Maybe there, in the quiet of nature, I can make sense of this mess. Maybe there, I can find the strength to face whatever comes next.

As I turn onto the winding road leading to the lake, a sense of calm washes over me. We're almost there. Almost safe.

23

DESTINY

The tension in my shoulders slowly eases as the city completely fades in the rearview mirror. Miles of open road stretch ahead, promising a reprieve from the chaos.

Avery's soft snores from the backseat provide a soothing soundtrack to our impromptu road trip.

My phone buzzes, startling me from my thoughts. Mom's name flashes on the screen. I take a deep breath before answering.

"Hey, Mom."

"Destiny! What's going on? Are you okay?" Her voice crackles with concern.

"I'm fine, Mom. Just needed to get away for a bit." I grip the steering wheel tighter, willing my voice to stay steady.

"But where are you going? Is Avery with you?"

"Yes, Avery's here. We're heading to the cottage." I pause, choosing my words carefully. "Things got a little crazy with the press. I just need some space to think."

"Oh, honey." She sighs. "Is this about Adam? I saw something on the news..."

"Mom, please. I can't get into it right now." I glance at the GPS. "Look, I'm still driving. I'll call you when we get to the cottage, okay? I don’t want to be on the phone while I drive."

"Alright, sweetie. Just... be safe. We love you."

"Love you too, Mom. Talk soon."

I end the call, exhaling slowly.

After a few moments of silence, I reach for the radio, desperate for a distraction from the whirlwind in my mind.

The soft strains of an old jazz tune fill the car, and I find myself humming along. It's a welcome change from the chaos of the past few days.

My eyes flick to the rearview mirror, catching sight of a car some distance behind. It's been there for a while, but I shake off the paranoia. This isn't some spy movie; it's just another traveler on the road. Maybe another lost soul hoping to find peace outside of the craziness of the city.

I drive slower, taking in the natural beauty around me and I can't help but marvel at the transformation. It's hard to believe this tranquil scene exists just outside the concrete jungle of New York.

"Look, Avery," I coo softly, even though I know she's fast asleep. "This is what real trees look like, not those sad things in the paintings hanging in our place."

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