Page 40 of Warrior's Purpose

“All right.”

Abby gave him a broad smile, picked up the motel phone and dialed Hope.

“Abby!” Hope picked up on the first ring.

“Yeah, it’s me.”

“Bloody hell, there were a lot of cops at the club. I looked around for you, but you were gone.”

“Shit, Hope, did anyone harass you?”

“No, I kept my distance. The house is trashed. What the fuck is going on?”

“I already told you. Listen up, I have to make this quick. Meet me where Dad used to drag us kicking and screaming every spring break.”

“Where?” Hope sounded frazzled. She could sympathize.

“You remember. He used to try to convince us it was a suitable vacation spot, but even Mom agreed it wasn’t.”

“Do you mean…”

“Yes. Shut up. Someone might be listening in. Watch your back. I gotta go.” She quickly hung up and turned to Ash. “She’ll be there. Let’s go.”

They walked beside the road, heading toward the truck stop. They made a side trip to a golden arches and she got them breakfast, while Ash waited outside near the dumpster. The kid behind the counter looked at her funny when she ordered half the menu. They ate as they continued toward the truck stop.

“I’ll talk to the truckers, while you hide. Once someone agrees, follow us, and climb into the back of the trailer.” She pointed to the big-rigs.

Ash nodded as they approached the long line of trucks. He ducked between the vehicles while she stood out front, waiting for one of the drivers to leave the building.

“Hey.” She approached a middle-aged guy in a ball cap. “I’m looking for a ride to a campground at Poinsett Lake, but anywhere nearby will do.”

“Sorry, honey, heading the other way.” The guy walked on.

Abby shook her head at Ash, who was waiting in the shadows. She tried a few more times and was turned down. Finally, someone agreed.

“Sure, sweet thing. My rig is over here.”

Of course, the guy who looks like Grizzly Adams agrees. Oh well.

She slowly followed the man, so Ash could follow them to Grizzly Adams’ truck.

“It must be kinda difficult driving such a big vehicle.” She captured the man’s attention, so he faced away from the rear of the trailer. She stood at the front bumper and patted the truck, watching to make sure Ash got in all right.

“I’m used to handling big loads,” the man chuckled as he eyed her up and down.

Oh great. Yeah, real subtle. She repressed an eye roll at the comment. This was the last place she’d be if they weren’t desperate.

Abby watched Ash gently shut the door, then gave the trucker her most convincing smile.

“Well, I won’t waste your time asking silly questions. I appreciate your help.”

“It’s my pleasure.”

It took a bit of effort climbing up into the cab, but she finally managed it. Grizzly Adams started up the truck with a rumble and pulled out on the open road. The lake and campground weren’t that far down Ninety-five, but still too far to walk.

“So, what’s your name, doll?”

“Rachel,” she lied.

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