Page 15 of Wicked Nasty

"And neither do you. So why don't you just get lost?"

I take a step forward and Ashley scurries away, joining her group of friends who were waiting just around the corner. I slip back into my car and plug in the address for a nearby truck stop, eager to leave this drama behind me.

The night before, I had stayed alone in my empty home for the last time. As the hours ticked by, I scoured the internet for places to stay at night. Finally, I settled on a stop that offered all the amenities I needed - washers and dryers, showers, and a safe place to park my car and get some sleep. Although there were some concerning reviews about safety, I reassured myself that I was prepared for anything.

Driving onto the highway, I let my thoughts drift from Katya to my father to Danny. It felt like there was so much happening at once, yet at the same time, nothing at all. I was stuck in this limbo of emotions and had no idea how to navigate through it.

In moments like this, most girls would turn to their mothers for comfort.But mine didn't want me...

Pulling into the parking lot of the rest stop, I carefully scope out the area before finding the perfect spot to park my car. It’s not too secluded, but also not too exposed. Turning off the engine, I make my way inside to grab some food and use the facilities.

The woman behind the register greets me with a warm smile. "How are we doing today?"

"Good. Just getting some snacks... Actually, can you tell me how to use the showers here?"

Her smile widens. "Don't worry, girl. I got you." She pulls out a large plastic keychain and hands it to me. "Use the last shower - it's the only one that locks. And don't worry about having change for the machines, they take cards now. I'll keep an eye on you."

"Thank you," I say gratefully.

Heading back outside, I climb into my car and set up my temporary home for the night. With sun visors covering all my windows and blankets covering every inch of my backseat, I create a cozy little bed for myself. Tucking my pillow under my head and hugging my stuffed rabbit close, I let out a heavy sigh as I took in the reality of my current situation.

Tears threaten to spill over as I gaze around at the makeshift bedroom. But then, suddenly, they come pouring out uncontrollably. Sobs wrack my body as I struggle to catch my breath. The tears seem endless, leaving me feeling drained and defeated.

Feeling utterly alone and hopeless, I pull the blankets up to my chin and close my eyes, hoping to find some solace in sleep.

Asthefirstraysof sunlight trickle in through a small crack in my window cover, I am abruptly awoken by a loud banging on the driver's side window. My heart races as I quickly sit up, fumbling to put on a sweatshirt while scurrying towards the front seat. Checking that all the doors are securely locked, I cautiously pull down a corner of the cover to see who is disturbing me.

An older man stands outside, one hand clutching a steaming coffee cup and the other resting on his hip, a warm smile spreading across his weathered face. His salt-and-pepper beard is neatly trimmed and gives off an air of familiarity, like that of a well-loved father or grandfather.

The crisp morning air fills the car as I roll the window down, allowing a gentle breeze to swirl through the interior. I peer out at a bearded man approaching, his flannel shirt and worn jeans giving off a friendly vibe.

"Uh... hi. Can I help you?" I ask cautiously.

"Just wanted to make sure you woke up!" he replies with a hearty laugh. "Liz, in there, told me you were staying and to keep an eye on you."

I nod, feeling slightly relieved. "Oh, thank you."

Taking a sip of his steaming coffee, the man introduces himself as Jim. "The girls are cookin' up breakfast. Come on inside and eat," he invites warmly.

As my stomach rumbles in agreement, Jim chuckles and adds, "I'm Jim, by the way."

"Nice to meet you. I’m Becca," I reply gratefully, stepping out of the car and into the crisp morning air.

Before heading inside, I discreetly slip my father's small handgun into my jacket pocket for added protection. You can never be too cautious around strangers.

Jim continues to exude kindness as we enter the cozy rest stop, filled with the savory smells of cooking breakfast. My stomach grumbles even louder at the enticing aroma.

But despite Jim's friendly demeanor, a part of me still remains wary.In this uncertain world, you never know who you can trust...

Jim holds the door open for me as we step inside, our feet landing on the worn linoleum floor of the diner. The same lady from last night stands behind the counter, a large glass coffeepot in hand, her bright red apron standing out against her white shirt. She looks up and grins, her warm brown eyes shining with kindness.

“Glad you’re up, sweetheart! Come take a seat, eggs will be done in just a quick second.”

We both sit on faded yellow stools at the counter as Liz moves around, her black ponytail bouncing with each step. Jim takes a sip of coffee and turns to me.

“So, how old are you, young lady?”

“Legal,” I reply with a hint of sarcasm.

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