Page 31 of Bad to the Bone
“Normally she does, but I traded with her this week. I have to drive up to Oklahoma City on Friday.”
“Have to?”
“I worked for a lobbying group called Oklahoma Climate Advocates until my dad got sick, and I still volunteer with them for certain causes,” Alex explained. “On Friday we’re doing some informational picketing on the Capitol steps to advocate a permanent state ban on fracking.”
“Sounds interesting,” Ricky Lee said. “I’ll go with you.”
That startled a laugh out of Alex. “Do you know the first thing about fracking?”
“I don’t think there’s any going on in Oregon at the moment, but I know it’s a method of extracting oil and natural gas by injecting liquid into the ground at high pressure, and some people think it’s a factor in the increase in earthquakes where it’s used. I’m sure I can find more information to read up on before Friday.” Ricky Lee smiled. “I’m staying in town to spend time with you. If that means driving up to Oklahoma City for the day, I can hold a picket sign or hand out leaflets or whatever you need me to do.”
“If you’re serious, I’d appreciate the company.”
“Great! We can take the Harley.”
Alex wouldn’t have protested if the trip was for any other reason. “I have to look like a professional. Arriving windblown after two hours on a motorcycle wouldn’t provide the right appearance.”
“And appearances are important to you.”
Alex wasn’t sure he liked the sound of that, but he couldn’t really dispute it, at least in this case. “I’ll drive. I can pick you up Friday morning at the hotel.”
Ricky Lee’s grin suddenly turned wicked. “You do that. But I’m not waiting until Friday to see you again. Where’s the best place in town to buy running shoes?”
