Page 54 (2/2)

Finally, Charlie looks up When he sees me, he calls out, “Va–Val”

I er onit, Charlie hops from the bed and leaves the room

Don’t call Kris

A moment later, the backdoor opens, and my brother steps out

Beyond relief, I want to pull hiht, but I have to act normal

“Surprise, Charlie,” I whisper “I ca on a holiday, but you have to come quietly”

“Q–quiet,” he whispers back, er on his lips

There’s no tis I lock up so Kris will be safe inside and throw the key through the bars of the open bathrooh Charlie’s, I lead hi taxi

Inside, the driver and Charlie speak simultaneously

“Where do you want to go?”

“Where are we go–going?”

Where are we going?

Where can I run to where Gabriel won’t find me? A place like that doesn’t exist If I’nore that notion I’er responsible for only Charlie and myself, but also for a third life I have no plan of action I pinch the bridge of my nose

Think, Valentina Think

“Ma’am, where to?” the driver repeats, more impatient now

I can’t afford a plane or bus ticket to anywhere for myself, let alone for two people There’s only one option left Wherever we’re going, I’ll have to drive

“Ma’a look “Is everything all right back there?”

“Yes We’re going to Berea”

He regards me from under his bushy eyebrows and says with a hint of disbelief, “Berea You sure?”

“Just drive I’ll give you directions”

He holdsback to the front and pulling away from the curb I exhale in relief, and squeeze Charlie’s hand to reassure him, happy that Kris hadn’t seen us Charlie has wound down hisand is staring at the buildings that whiz past, oblivious to the lu through my veins

I send a quick text one

Charlie and I have to leave for a while Sorry to sneak off like this, but the less you know the better Thank you for always being a friend Love you