Page 5 of Knot Their Soldier: Part One
“Good luck, Omega Sparks.”
I sprint to the truck, my second-hand sneakers pounding against the dry, cracked ground.
The truck’s door hinges scream as I wrench it open. I slip on the footstep as I scramble into the cabin.
My hands shake violently, and I fumble with the key.
The engine roars to life.
“Halley?” my father calls from the porch.
I’ve only ever driven the farm truck to do chores, and I hope it’s the same principle. Handbrake off. Clutch in. Stick to first gear.
“What is she doing?” Official Gould spits at my father. He rises from his chair, disbelief followed by rage flashing over his bearded face.
The truck lurches forward with a jolt and I wrench the steering wheel towards the driveway.
“Halley!” my father hollers, his voice cracking with fury.
I don’t look back. I can’t. I know if I do, I’ll lose my nerve and give in to my father’s demands.
“Where is she going?!” Official Gould screeches as the truck picks up speed, bouncing wildly.
Family members emerge from their homes. Familiar curious faces blur as my eyes sting with unshed tears. I press harder on the gas pedal and focus on the road.
I’m not sad to be leaving them. They’ve never made me feel like I belonged. Always the odd one out. TheOmega.
I reach the end of the dirt driveway and jerk the steering wheel sharply to the right. The truck fishtails, skidding and spewing rocks behind me like a final farewell to my past. I leave the plume of dust behind as I accelerate onto the surfaced road.
I’m not a gambler, but I’m betting everything on the word of a stranger.
I’ll go to the military base. I’ll ask for sanctuary and see where my fate takes me. It has to be better than whatever the Companionship Program is.
The truck roars as I push it faster, hoping I’ve gotten far enough ahead of the government car that’s bound to follow.
“I seek sanctuary in ‘The Omega Division’,” I say to myself, trying the words out. My heart thumps wildly in my chest as I try to imagine what I’m walking into.
The Beta had seemed so sure I’d be safe there, but I know nothing about the military or this mysterious Omega Division.
I can’t picture my future. It’s a blank canvas.
Fear is quivering through me, but I’m also overcome by a wave of elation.
I roll down the window and let the wind lash at my hair.
For the first time in my life, I’m in control.
Manic laughter ripples from me, and a wide grin splits my face. I throw my head back, grip the steering wheel, and howl like a wild beast.
It’s my first bite of adventure, and I like the taste.
Chapter One
Halley
Eleven Years Later
The distinct scent of sweaty Alpha floats on the gentle breeze across Barkrood Military Base. I tilt my face up to catch the lingering rays of afternoon sunshine, admiring the wispy clouds streaking across the blue sky. After a hard day of work in the warehouse, this is my favorite place to relax.
