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Scene Two: Before the Worst
Topic Started: Sep 10 2009, 08:51 PM (2,022 Views)
LadyRahl
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Supreme Goddess Of All Things Bright And Shiny
Willow/Adam/Paul/Cat - The Price You Pay

“Okay,” Willow said “now wiggle your toes.”

Paul hissed, wiggling his toes the best he could, his foot screaming bloody murder at him. “Jesus fucking Christ!”

“Watch your language,” Adam snapped at him. “We have kids,”

“FUCK the kids!” Paul snapped back. “This fucking HURTS!”

“And it’ll hurt more,” Willow hissed at him, one finger on top of the wound and the other on the bottom “if you wake my kids up, or they start parroting the words that you’re so fond of.” She licked her lips, arching a brow at him. “Now, looking around,” she said, her eyes looking over the over half dozen people they now had packed into the tour bus “I’m the closest thing that we have to medical professional on board.”

“I’d do as she says man,” Cat replied scratching the back of his neck. “You don’t wanna fuck with a momma bear when there’re cubs around.” Paul shot him a look that could kill and he just smiled in response.

“Dumb fucking thing to do,” Willow muttered softly.

“She can say it!” Paul said in pain as she pulled out a needle and thread from the sewing kit she’d grabbed at the camping store. “Why can’t I?”

“Because I’m the momma bear,” she replied using a pair of pliers and using them to bend the needle into a hook. Threading the needle she used a lighter to sterilize it. Setting it down in a glass bowl she poured tequila over it and let it soak for a minute. “This is going to hurt,” she said running the booze over his wounded foot.

“Oh Hell no,” he said pulling away. He couldn’t move further as two pairs of hands gripped his shoulders and held him down. “Come on, guys, this isn’t funny.”

“If he screams,”

“I’ll bash him over the head,” Adam said to her with a smile.

“Can’t I just get drunk and pass out? I mean come on, I’m wide awake here!” Paul said.

“Alcohol thins the blood, no.” She replied and let out a heavy sigh. “Maybe we should just knock him out now?”

“Yeah,” Paul said nodding vehemently in agreement. “Fucking knock me out!”

“I don’t know,” Adam said hesitantly. “I mean,”

“Dude, you bitch ass wife is going to fucking sew my god damn foot with a fucking needle and thread!” He yelled at him.

“Don’t call my wife a bitch!” Adam snapped, grabbing an unopened wine bottle and bashing Paul over the head with it, his face contorted in anger. Adam never lost his temper, except when it came to Willow and Paul had probably said just about the only thing that would have gotten him to do it. Insulting the love of his life and the mother of his children was just the ticket to bring him to sweet oblivion.

“Thank you baby,” she said sweetly looking up at her husband with a smile. The next half hour she spent slowly sewing together the top and the bottom of the wound on Paul’s foot as neatly as possible. She made sure to use small, delicate stitches that would be strong enough to take pressure and movement, but small enough to avoid pulling too much if he needed to walk, which he would.

She really had to ask herself how long Paul would last after the impact tomorrow. If they lost the bus? If they had to walk? How exactly was Paul going to get around? She could fashion makeshift litter to drag his ass if need be but if it got infected? It’s not like hospitals were going to be functioning and doctors readily available.

Standing up she moved over to the sink in the small kitchen and washed her hands in the sink using as little water as she could before using another splash of tequila to re-sterilize the needle and dropped it back into the sewing kit. “We should make another stop before tomorrow.” She said. “While it’s dark.”

“Why?” Adam asked. “I thought we got everything we need at the camping store.”

“We did,” she said placing her hands on the counter and leaning against it. “But I didn’t think about medical supplies. I’m sorry,” she turned to look at her husband, tears in her eyes. “I should have thought of it before we left Phoenix. Paul’s injury, we need drugs in case of infection, we need antiseptics. After tomorrow, there’s no telling how many injured we’ll have, or how many we’ll find that need our help…”

“I’ll talk to the driver,” Adam said. “See where the next biggest town is. We can find a doctor’s office, pharmacy, vet office… don’t worry baby, we’ll get it and after we do, we won’t stop driving until we can’t drive anymore. Whatever happens Willow, we’ll be together.”

“Whatever happens,” she replied, a small smile on her face.
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mdnjr70
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Ruben/Zeke – Choices


Ruben watched Zeke get up and leave the table he looked at his shaky hand and let out a sigh. He looked at the board game a little dumbfounded by it all. Was this some cruel sick joke, was God testing him were the fates tempting him just to have it all blow up in his face, literally. “Why?” Ruben mumbled to himself. He was sitting here in a dinning room in Ankeny Iowa, of a man he just met waiting for an asteroid to hit the earth and more then likely kill him. “I meet Zeke now, it’s so not fair.” He mumbled again still looking at the game board, which Zeke was winning at again. Tomorrow they would go into the basement and wait, Ruben would wrap his arms around him, hold him and wait for God to decide whether they would live or die. It was the best they could offer; mutal comfort in a desperate time.

Ruben sat there looking around thinking. I’m 36 and I’m terrified to do anything more then to just sit here and play games waiting for the world to end, part of him wanted so much more, but that was right, sitting here thinking about being with Zeke holding him kissing him being with him well his family and friends were out there probably fighting to get to somewhere safe here he was safe and sound surrounded by everything he could need if they survived; food, water, shelter and companionship, and neither of them nut-jobs well he didn’t think Zeke was a nut job and he hoped he wasn’t. “No.” Ruben said shaking his head, something like this would have brought out the cruelness and craziness in people, but Zeke was none of that. He was sweet and nice, generous and kind, all to a fault. “you’re here to protect him.” A voice said from somewhere in his mind. How long would someone like Zeke last when everything fell apart, he would probably get hooked up with someone who would use him, turn him into a sex slave or something worse just to help himself or herself for that matter.

Ruben shook his head, he was smarter then that, Zeke wouldn’t let that happen, he would stand up for himself he would fight back, human nature is to survive and Zeke is a survivor. Taking one look around the house said that, there was so much stuff here, it cost him a fortune and he had been at it for months. Zeke was smart too. He hadn’t left the house, he hadn’t done anything to let others know they were in the house or that the house was loaded with supplies if not weapons. No Zeke could survive, there was no doubt. Then why was he here, he wasn’t anything special, he was an ok person, he thought he was a good person, but compared to Zeke he wasn’t. “No.” He mumbled again, I can’t compare myself to Zeke that wouldn’t be fair to either of them, he thought. There was a reason they were pushed together, there had to be, or was it all just chance. Instead of going to dinner with his co-workers he decided to go back to the hotel after the conference, a headache he told them, but that hadn’t been the truth, a choice he made. Then stopping to tie his shoelace, which really didn’t need to be tied, another choice. Walking a little slower, another choice. All these choices leading him back to the hotel were just as if it were scripted he met Zeke, helping him, another choice. Going to dinner, another choice. Leaving with him to come here to safety, another choice.

“A series of events leading me to here, right here right now and I cant’ make a move, assuming that is a move he wants.” Ruben said and it was his turn to make another choice another move, what would it be, he knew what he wanted it to be, but he couldn’t do it, he shouldn’t do it, it was the right time and he wasn’t some animal in heat?

“What?” Zeke said bringing in two cups of tea and setting one down next to Ruben and taking his seat, “you didn’t move?”

Ruben looked at him, then to the tea, then back to the board game, “I’ve been thinking.”

Zeke gave him a curious look, his eyes digging into his soul could he see what Ruben was thinking about, what he wanted or was he just projecting it onto him, “about?” he said.

“Fate and destiny; about choices and events.” Ruben said looking at him trying to make sense of it all and to clear out his own head. “Why did you come to the hotel tonight?” Zeke looked at him, “To swap out pictures and get money for the ones the hotel sold.” Zeke said looking at Ruben a little confused by the question.

“There was no other reason, could you have done it another night or were you compelled to come there tonight; this night?” Ruben asked looking at him trying to find some kind of answer something to maybe explain some of this. Maybe instead of him being here to protect Zeke, it was the other way around, what would have happened if he had gone out with is co-workers? Ruben shuddered at the thought, “Ruben what’s wrong?” Ruben looked at him, “God works in mysterious ways, but maybe tonight he lead me to you for a reason so we could find each other.” Zeke shrugged, “It’s possible.” Ruben nodded, “It is anything can happen it’s all about the choices we make and who’s to say that those choices don’t get manipulated from time to time; I should have been at dinner with my co-workers tonight, instead I met you and we went to dinner.” Ruben smiled feeling oddly better, “So we’re not alone, maybe so it’s that I’m not alone.”

Zeke looked at him, “I can’t imagine you being a lone. You’re amazing.” Ruben blushed, “No, Zeke, I’ve always been alone. I never met anyone who’s made me feel what I feel when I’m with you. I know corny but true.” Ruben looked at him his head fuzzy, “Did you ever see the movie Mircle Mile?” Zeke looked at him, “No I don’t think so.” Ruben nodded, “well it’s pretty bad, a buddy of mine made me watch it, its about the guy and girl they meet and hit it off, they agree to meet at midnight after her shift at this all night cafe but something happens and guy oversleeps, when he goes to find the girl she’s gone, giving up on him. He picks up this call from a payphone and learns that there is going to be nuclear war, he spends the rest of the movie trying to find her and to get her to safety. It’s actually really depressing, but they find each other and they realize they love each other and the movie ends.”

Ruben looked at Zeke, “In a way it reminds me about our situation except we’re not trying to find each other in LA as all hell is breaking loose.” Zeke smiled at him, “this is true we are both here, together, and I think safe, God willing.” Ruben nodded, “I’m not sure what would have happened to me if I didn’t meet you Zeke, and I’m very glad that I have. I just don’t want to do anything to screw this up, I don’t want to say the wrong thing or do the wrong thing. I really don’t.” Ruben sighed, “I just don’t have any luck when it comes to this sort of thing, I think that’s why I’ve been alone all this time.”

Zeke smiled looking at him, “Or maybe it was them, maybe they weren’t right for you.”

Ruben laughed taking a sip of the hot tea, “Who knows and it doesn’t really matter not any more. I feel like I’m right where I belong.” Ruben finally picked up a card seeing the color and moved. “You’re turn.” He said looking at Zeke.
May it be said, when the sun sets on your life, you made a difference.
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mdnjr70
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Domenica/Alex – Alternatives


“So Park City’s nine hours?” Alex said looking at Domenica and Gareth.

“Yeah,” Domenica replied her smiling fading. “So I really do think we should go there.”

Alex sighed, “yeah, I guess. Sam’s gonna put it to a vote when we get back to the car.” Domenica nodded it seemed only fair and it looked like everyone was packing up and getting ready to head back out again. They quickened their pass back to the cars, it felt really good to stretch her legs after sitting for so long. She looked at Gareth who was looking at Alex she followed his eyes Alex seemed a little deflated, “You know, if things are bad in Salt Lake, well know when we fit Provo, Denver is only about 7 hours, the roads are flatter and we could keep driving it’s high desert, but that shouldn’t be to bad, there would be less people.” Domenica said with a smile trying to come up with as many options as she could. “If it’s really bad we just keep going, we can text our families so they know where to head. I’m not sure about anywhere to go there, but it was on the list of places as well, so the government will be prepared for people.”

Alex nodded he could see that Domenica was not only trying to make him feel better about his idea, but come up with additional plans and not be so ridge and set in her ways, “Well I’m sure there are caves and places like that, plus like you said there might be less people.”

“We’ll put it to a vote with the others and see if anyone else has any other suggestions, I of course no nothing other then when I’ve seen on tele.” Gareth said in his adorable accent looking around, “we really should get going the clock is ticking.”

Domenica looked around it was so creepy some of it seemed so normal but then there were hits of what had happened here and it scared her, “yep.” She looked to Alex trying to get her mind off what was coming, they were already 100 miles from the ocean give or take, but would that be enough, every additional mile made it that much more safer for everyone, “Have you heard anything from your cousin?” Alex looked at her a frown on his lips, “No. Nothing. I’m not even sure where she is.”

Domenica put her hand on his shoulder, “I’m sorry Alex, I really am, You said she was coming from Canada right, maybe her flight got diverted, maybe they shut down all the airports on the west coast and diverted all flights to other locations inland, where it will be safer, I mean the FAA is part of the government, I remember after 9/11 they diverted flights all over the country to ground everything as quickly as possible, maybe this time they diverted flights away from the west coast and east coast.” She said trying to be uplifting and positive as possible so he wouldn’t worry so much.

“Maybe, that would make sense, maybe she’ll already be in Denver or Salt Lake or any number of cities in the center of the country.” Domenica smiled, “or any city or town with an airport or a landing strip.”

“What about Las Vegas?” Gareth said, “It’s in the middle of nothing, pretty safe a lot of land around it.” Domenica nodded, “It’s possible keep texting her, we have to pass near Vegas anyway, we’ll be there in a few hours, if she’s there, we could get her and continue north.” Domenica’s tone was back to its perky self, it had only taken several hours but it was back. Alex smiled at her, “Well she does love to gamble, it’s very possible.”

They were almost back to her car when Lieutenant Johnson called out, “We’re moving out load up, we’ve got reports that the traffic is moving pretty good to Vegas, we’re going to try the highway again, if it doesn’t work out there are other alternatives.”
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Ames/Stu - Will You Help Get Me Right Out of This Godforsaken Town?

Ames and Stu exchanged confused, slightly dumbfounded looks as Dave bolted out of the room, following Adia.

¡§Well, that was, um, odd.¡¨ Ames said, moving to the bed, she reached into her pocket and opened her cell phone. ¡§Shit! I forgot to turn it on when I landed. Alex is probably worried sick about me!¡¨

¡§Alex is your boyfriend?¡¨

¡§Yeah,¡¨ Ames said. She was never a huge fan of lying, but in this case, she felt it was justified. This Stu guy was weird and she had no interest whatsoever in getting involved with him. ¡§And he¡¦s a little bit, protective too. He tends to get aggressive other guys hit on me. One person felt me up; he ended up with his jaws wired shut and a broken nose.¡¨

¡§I see¡K¡¨ Stu seemed nervous and Ames had to hide her smile. She had to admit, lying wasn¡¦t a good thing¡Kbut fucking with people¡¦s heads, well, that was a helluva lot of fun. Her phone chirped, and she glanced at the screen.

¡§Voicemail?¡¨

¡§Text message,¡¨ Ames replied. ¡§Don¡¦t know the number.¡¨ She shrugged and opened the message, then read aloud. ¡§¡¥A, headed for Colorado Rockies...maybe Denver area? Gonna talk it over with the others, text me. Love, Alex.¡¦ Oh thank God he¡¦s okay. ¡¨ Another ping, and she read a second message. ¡§¡¥Sorry, forgot to tell you, lost my phone. Text me at this number.¡¦¡¨

¡§He said there others?¡¨

¡§Yeah. Which is good. Safety in numbers, right?¡¨

Ames saw a blur in the corner of her eye. ¡§The fuck was that?¡¨

¡§What?¡¨ Stu asked.

¡§Something, or someone, just went past the window.¡¨ As though to prove her point, there was a sickening splattering noise outside. Both of them bolted to the window and looked down; below they could see a body surrounded by a pool of blood. ¡§Oh Jesus¡KI¡¦m gonna be sick.¡¨

Stu cocked his head to one side. ¡§Wait¡KI recognize that shirt¡Kthat¡¦s Adia!¡¨

¡§Oh God.¡¨ Ames¡¦ voice hitched and she walked to the bed, clutching the pillow. ¡§Oh God¡Kwhy would she do that?¡¨

Before Stu could answer, her phone beeped again. She snatched it up and read the screen. ¡§¡¥Change of plans¡Kheaded to Park City, Utah; meet us there. Text me with your location¡Kdirections to follow. Please text me. Love, Alex.¡¦¡¨

¡§Park City, Utah? That¡¦s not far from here. Depending where they are, they may even have to pass through here.¡¨

Ames smiled slightly, but to Stu it looked fake, almost like she¡¦d learned to smile from a picture book or something. ¡§True.¡¨ She opened her phone again and tapped out a quick message:

Alex,

In Vegas at the Monte Carlo with a man named Stu. Sorry I went there¡KI was feeling lucky and meant to text you when I landed, forgot when this shit happened ƒ¼. Stu says you may pass thru Vegas from wherever you are¡K.I¡¦ll stay put then? I miss you and I¡¦m scared. Text me ASAP!

Luv,
A


She slid they keyboard back into the side of her phone and looked around the room, then cracked open the minibar. She took a bottle of vodka out and took a swig. ¡§Something to take the edge off?¡¨ Stu nodded and she capped the bottle, tossing it to him.

¡§Cheers babe,¡¨ he said with a lecherous wink, then realized his error. ¡§Shit! That never happened!¡¨

Ames chuckled, ¡§what¡¦s the expression? What happens in Vegas, stay in Vegas.¡¨

¡§Then why don¡¦t you and I?¡¨

¡§No! I¡¦m with Alex¡Khe loves me, we¡¦re already married in common law. Not a real marriage, but I still maintain that commitment. He was gonna propose to me in California he said.¡¨

¡§Why was he even there without you?¡¨

¡§Book tour, I couldn¡¦t get the time off. He wrote that book the psychopath copy-catted.¡¨

¡§I see,¡¨ Stu said.

¡§He was there on a tour and researching his next book. Something about a Jack the Ripper copycat in modern day LA.¡¨

Stu looked slightly nervous at the mention of serial killers but shrugged it off. Ames¡¦ phone chirped once more.

¡§¡¥A, we¡¦re on the road outside of Anaheim. Gonna pass through Vegas. Stay in the hotel. Will text again when I get to Vegas. Stay put and don¡¦t leave Stu. I¡¦m coming and I miss you.

Love,
Alex.¡¦¡¨

Stu nodded, ¡§so, we¡¦re holing up here?¡¨

¡§For the time being, at least.¡¨

¡§Alex said he¡¦s got other right? So who knows what they¡¦ll wanna do.¡¨ Stu tossed the empty vodka bottle in the trash bin. They may decide Vegas is a safe haven for now. At least until the shit hits the fan.¡¨

¡§Funny, I thought it already had,¡¨ Ames said dryly.
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Ruben/Zeke – Wandering Mind

They had moved from Candyland on to Monopoly a game Ruben knew well and enjoyed. One he normally won, but not today Ruben couldn’t stand the idea of losing a third game, but it was looking that way. He tried not to be competitive, but he was, it came from playing sports, he liked to win, he liked to be on top, but right now that position was being given to the very reluctant Zeke. Ruben scanned the board and Zeke’s properties, Zeke had already picked up; Boardwalk, Pacific Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue, Marvin Gardens, New York Avenue, B&O and Short Line Railroads. This was going to be a blood bath for his part he: Connecticut Avenue, Virginia Avenue and Baltic Avenue. “I just don’t understand, I’m never this good at these games.” Zeke said picking up the dice, Ruben was on his third bought in jail in a row. “Why do I have the feeling that I’m being swindled here? I think this whole ‘good guy’ routine is just to lull me into a sense of safety, I bet you’re actually a lion and not a lamb.” Ruben said watching Zeke laugh as he picked up the Electric Company, he was smiling as he handed the dice over to Ruben with a playful wink. Ruben rolled, “Finally. Doubles.” Ruben said moving his piece to Tennessee Avenue. “I’ll buy it.” Ruben said pulling out the money and handing it to Zeke, who was only looking at him smiling, “Did you forget, we’re not using cash, Tennessee will cost you your pretty white undershirt.” Zeke said grinning from ear to ear. This gave Ruben a moment of pause as he down he only had his underwear, tee-shirt and socks left, well Zeke was fully dressed with a pile of his close sitting there next to him, which, it would seem, he had been using to buy up all the property in the game.

Ruben frowned, how did he get talked into this again. He pulled off his tee-shirt and handed it to Zeke who was still smiling looking at him, “wow, nice that would be worth Park Place in my book.” Ruben blushed feeling like a lamb being led to slaughter before a very hungry lion, “thanks.” He said as Zeke handed him the property, maybe if he was lucky Zeke would land on his meager properties and he would win some of his clothes back, before he was completely naked.

Zeke rolled the dice and of course landed on his own property, “ah I just missed you.” Zeke said with a coy innocent smile.

Ruben rolled the dice and rolled an eleven and he moved his piece again, “Son of a…” Ruben said but didn’t finish as he landed on Marvin Gardens. Zeke giggled devilishly, “that would be mine and I think I’ll take your socks.” Ruben looked at his socks, he was quickly running out of close, this was going to be a quick game unless Zeke had other ideas of payment in mind as well. Ruben pulled off his socks and tossed them Zeke who just chuckled again, “I’m never this good at this game, but then again I never had this kind of motivation.” It was Zeke’s turn and he rolled the dice again, “Illinois Avenue, I’ll buy it.” Zeke took Ruben’s socks and tossed them in the bank pile, Ruben rolled the dice, he needed an eleven then he would have some clothes again, otherwise. He shuddered, “cold?” Zeke said with a gentle smile, “I can turn the heat up.”

“No I’m good.” Ruben said as he rolled the dice. They both watched the dice topple and when Ruben saw the six and the four he knew it was all over. Zeke looked at him and snickered clapping his hands, “Well I guess you have to pay up and it looks like you only have one thing left.” Ruben flushed again, “well you win, I guess we can play a different game now.” Zeke laughed, “normally I would let you off the hook, but I want my payment plus you’re next roll you pass go, so you’ll have some clothes again.” Zeke said sticking out his hand and bending his fingers up and down making a ‘hand them over gesture’.

“But.” Zeke again smiled, “It’s not like I haven’t already seen it. Come on it’s just a game and I think I’ve earned it.”

Ruben looked at him then looked down to his black boxerbrief, “I didn’t think you were this cut throat Zeke.” He said pulling off his underwear he was now completely exposed and Zeke was not shy about looking. “I’m not, I just really wanted to win this.” Zeke said taking the black underwear and adding it to his pile, “My turn.” Zeke picked up the dice and looked at Ruben then put them down again, “you know, I think you oh me a little more for rent on Boardwalk, it’s the most expensive property in the game and really underwear, it’s worth so much more then that.” Ruben looked at him blushing, “I don’t have anything else to offer.” Zeke smiled, it was almost a leer, “don’t you?” he said getting up and walking over to Ruben touching his chest running his hand down his chest passing his abs, feeling each one as he went further down. “I don’t think this is a good idea Zeke.” Ruben struggled to say as Zeke looked at him, kissing his neck, “Don’t you, this is what you want isn’t it?” Zeke’s hand moved to Ruben’s quickly stiffening member, “it’s what you wanted sense we’ve met I could tell, cause I’ve wanted the same thing.” Zeke said nipping at Ruben’s ear playfully.

“Yes, but…” Ruben couldn’t finish as a moan escaped his mouth as Zeke gave his hardness a gentle squeeze playing with him for just a minute, “Oh God.” Ruben moaned again as Zeke kissed his neck, “you feel amazing, the things we’re going to do Ruben, I’m going to make you feel better then you’ve felt before.” Ruben wanted to push him off him he wanted to protest but his body was betraying him. “I’ve never…I’m not.” Zeke hushed him with other kiss, “I promise it’ll be amazing I’m very gentle and very passionate when I want to be, it’s going to be all about you. It’ll be astonishing I promise, then I’ll show you how you can make me feel just as good, I promise you won’t regret it. Not like before, you have my word.” Zeke whispered in his ear, Ruben could feel Zeke’s hand moving quicker, “I’m…I’m.” Zeke’s tongue plunged into Ruben’s mouth, he was so close.

“Hey you gonna buy that or what? Earth to Ruben, come in Ruben.” Zeke said looking at him from across the table he was sipping his tea. Ruben looked at him confused then looked at himself he was still dressed. “um ya, ya I’ll buy it.” Ruben said handing Zeke the money and Zeke handed him the property, he was suddenly very aware that he was a hard as a rock and there was a hint of dampness there as well. “your turn.” Ruben said looking at Zeke blushing very deep now, thank god he didn’t have to stand up, that would have been very bad, very bad in deed.
Edited by mdnjr70, Sep 20 2009, 10:06 PM.
May it be said, when the sun sets on your life, you made a difference.
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Tom --MN lake cabin

“What about that one?” Tom asked, pointing towards the sky as he lay in the soft green grass on the hill with his daughter.

“Um…..a turtle!” Ava exclaimed.

“A turtle, huh?”

“Yeah! See, Daddy, you can see the head and the four legs and even a little tail sticking out of the round shell!” Ava pointed out each appendage to her father, tiny finger extended to the cloud floating above them.

“Oh, I see it now,” Tom said, smiling. It really did look like a turtle. His daughter was so smart. It always blew him away how smart she was for a four-year-old.

He’d managed to keep her entertained for a few hours now. He wondered how Sophie was doing with Jonas. He was only a month old, and was a little fussy lately. Probably colic. Too young to be teething, that’s for sure. Must be colic.

“C’mon, Squirt, let’s see what your mom is doing, ok?”

Ava beamed. “Ok!” She ran down the hill, her legs gaining momentum faster than the rest of her. Tom saw the fall before it happened, but couldn’t get there in time to stop it. Ava landed flat on her face, arms splayed out to the sides. She sat up, face covered in grass and dirt and a huge grass stain swiped down her new yellow dress. Her face scrunched up into a confused, humiliated, and shocked wail, and she screamed as tears sprouted from her eyes.

“Shh, it’s ok, honey, Daddy’s got you,” he said in his comforting daddy tone. “You’re ok, not even a scratch, Pumpkin,” he soothed as he gathered her into his lap.

Ava wasn’t having it. She was NOT ok, she couldn’t be! She cried even louder and Tom actually thanked his bad hearing for once. Ah, sometimes being in a band worked out in mysterious ways. She would have shattered his ear drums if he’d had perfect hearing.

Sophie hurried out of the cabin, a worried look on her face.

“What’s going on? Is she ok!?”

Tom nodded. “She just fell on the hill; she’s fine, no cuts or scrapes. Just scared her, I think.”

Sophie took Ava from his lap and held her. Ava quieted down in no time. Tom marveled at a mother’s ability to make everthing all right. Mothers definitely cornered the market on that skill. Tom stood up and looked over to the house. “What’s Jonas up to?”

Sophie read Tom’s mind. “Don’t worry, hon, he’s in his crib. Let’s go inside, ok?” she said more to Ava than to Tom, but he followed her inside.

The house still stank like rotten seaweed from the morning’s breakfast attempt. Tom barely contained his gag reflex as the memory of the clumpy, slimy goo sliding down his throat came to him. It was probably the worst shit his wife had ever made, hands down. She had brought the malodorous pot to the table, smiling with hope as Tom opened the lid and dolloped a couple serving spoons full onto his plate. Dear God in Heaven, he’d thought as he looked at it.

He’d glanced up at his wife’s face and knew he’d have to eat it. She just looked so…desperate. And she’d spent an hour on it. So, he raised a forkful of the steaming, vile goop to his mouth and shoveled it in. The taste was even worse than the time Mark dared him to eat the two-day old taco they’d found in the seat of their van. And the SMELL. Jesus! His eyes watered as he swallowed the muck down as quickly as he could, while forcing down his gag reflex. The rubbery, yet slimy consistency brought to mind road-kill guts, he couldn’t help it. He couldn’t wipe the image from his mind.

He willed his mind to shut the fuck up, but it kept on bringing forth the images. Guts. Gooey, steaming intestines baking in the sun, flies buzzing around. Dirty, oily hair mashed around piles of flattened flesh and…..Tom had finally finished. His throat convulsed—opening, closing violently, then opening again. Tears streamed down his face and he stood up abruptly and excused himself to the bathroom. He puked as quietly as he could. He hoped that nobody had heard him.

He exited the bathroom after a few minutes and saw his wife gazing expectantly at him. “What?” he asked sheepishly.

“Well?” she asked, eyebrow raised.

“Oh,” he said, realizing she was waiting on his opinion. “It was great, honey. Not my favorite, but you cooked the hell out of that recipe, baby.”

Sophie’s face broke into a wide grin. “Oh, honey, I really think I’m getting better at this vegan cooking thing!”

“You sure are, sweetheart,” Tom said cheerily, willing himself not to return to the bathroom for a second round of toilet-hugging.
*********************************

Tom only lied to his wife about her cooking. Everything else he was 100% honest with her about. It's just that with the cooking, she tried so hard and it hurt his heart to see her disappointed face. So.....he figured if he had to be dishonest about something, her cooking was probably pretty harmless.

Tom doodled around on his guitar a little, with the amp off, of course. His son was napping. He'd brought one of his older guitars, and he smiled as he noticed some of the old stickers he'd slapped on it: "I Love Orgasms" and other mature and witty phrases. Playing the guitar again made him both happy with the good memories and sad for the same reason. He missed Mark. He missed Travis. But they'd said a lot of negative things about him to the press after the break up. Tom hadn't said a goddamned word. He'd kept his mouth shut about it, like he felt they should have.

Tom didn't feel any malice toward them, just regret that things had ended so sourly. Tom had often described his relationship with Mark as a dating relationship. Well, it held even to the end--the end of the band had felt like a divorce. He couldn't talk to Mark or Travis anymore without a fight breaking out. So in the end, he'd just stopped talking and let their manager do all the talking for him. Not like it helped any.

He jumped slightly as he felt Sophie slide her arms around his neck from behind. He hadn't heard her come in, he was so wrapped up in his thoughts.

She smiled and kissed the top of his head. His hair smelled like honeysuckle. He'd resorted to using her shampoo again. "Did I scare you?"

"Yeah, I was spacing off, I guess."

Sophie glanced down at the guitar Tom was strumming. "Thinking about the guys again?" she asked softly, kindly.

Tom nodded and she felt him sigh deeply. She kissed his soft brown hair again and rested her cheek against it. She waited quietly, knowing that he had something to say.

"I just...." he shrugged. "I feel like the same person I always was, but I guess I'm not. None of us are. I mean, we can't be thirty years old and still telling dick jokes on stage, can we?"

"I don't know, baby," she commented, kissing his hair again. "Would you have had to?"

Tom sighed again, and said mournfully, "We just weren't on the same page at the end. Do I still think dick jokes are funny? Yes. But as an evolving and aging musician, do I feel like that kind of thing should end? Absolutely. Travis and Mark didn't agree, and that's why...well, you know."

"I know, Tom," Sophie said, squeezing him tight.

Tom turned around and pulled her onto his lap. "Thank God I have you, Sophie. You and the kids are the only reason I was able to move on."

"Well I'll always be here for you, Tom," Sophie said, holding his eyes with her own as she cupped his face, "I'm not going anywhere."

Edited by bebeluv1, Aug 2 2014, 05:59 PM.
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It took a long time for Misty's tears to stop flowing, and she still felt like shit afterwards,, but she was at least able to stop.

Marie had driven them the whole time, not speaking, letting Bridgette calm her down.

"I'm fine, now, really," Misty said, pushing off from Bridgettes lap and drying her eyes. The tears would still flow, but she had a better hold on herself now, "How are we doing on gas?"

"We have half a tank left," Marie said, "And we've been driving for quite some time now."

"Do we have enough to get to Iowa?" Misty asked, but she thought she already knew the answer.

"I don't think so," Bridgette said, "We're still a long ways off."

"Well then," Misty said, wiping her nose, "We're gonna have to stop at a gas station or something. And maybe they'll have coffee, or something." Misty wasn't a big coffee drinker, but she needed something to help calm her rattled nerves.

"There's a gas station not too far up ahead," Bridgette said, reading a road sign, "Hopefully it wont be busy, or maybe it'll be deserted."

"We can only hope," Marie said, turning off the road to reach the gas station. "Does anyone have any money?"

Misty and Bridgette exchanged a confused glance. They hadn't thought to bring their wallets, didn't plan on bringing them. They both had thought they could just steal whatever they needed, because after all, it was the end of the world.

Misty decided to play along, "Uh, yea, I got plenty of money. Don't worry about it."

Marie nodded, pointing ahead, "There it is."

It was a Chevron, an isolated gas station, the kind you saw in horror movies, where the car full of stupid teens on Spring Break pulls in, and get picked off one by one until only the hot chick and the muscle man live.

Misty had always hated those types of movies, not because she scared easy, but because she hated the concept that a group of young people had to be killed in a movie at all.

The gas station was deserted, or at least there were no cars in the parking lot. Marie pulled into the pump, and got out, with Misty and Bridgette following.

"Do you have your credit card?" Marie asked, pulling the nozzle of the hook.

"Um, no, I got cash..." Misty said, scratching her head, "I'll just go inside and pay the attendant..."

"I'll go with you!" Bridgette said, "I wanna stock up on snacks while we're here."

"Make sure not to spend all your money," Marie admonished, "We might need it down the road."

"Uh, right! Don't worry about it, we got plenty of money!" Bridgette said, grinning wide, trying her hardest not to laugh.

Misty wasn't having better luck keeping her straight face, so she felt it better that they should hurry inside. "C'mon, Bridgette, lets go."

The two girls hurried into the gas station, and when the door closed, they burst out laughing, "Oh, my God, why didn't we just tell her we were gonna just take what we needed?" Bridgette wheezed, holding her sides.

"I dunno," choked out Misty, "C'mon, lets get to work."

The station was deserted, as Misty had suspected. Luckily, Bridgette had worked as a gas station attendent for awhile, so she was able to get the pump working from the inside. Misty gave Marie the thumbs up, and Marie started to fill up their tank.

The two girls had a bit of fun, gathering all the junk food they could find, bags of Combos, Pringles, Gummi Bears. Misty and Bridgette had often talked about what it would be like to have a spree in a gas station, and the chance to actually do it helped push much of the sorrow from Misty's heart.

They also grabbed some snacks they felt Marie would like, and they stocked up on bottled water, tea, and Gatorade.

They were about ready to leave, when Misty heard something.

scritch scritch scritch

"Wait!" Misty said, stopping Bridgette, listening.

scritch scritch

"You hear that?" Misty aske,d and Bridgette nodded. It sounded familiar, like nails being scraped against wood.

"An animal?" Bridgette asked, sounding a bit nervous.

"Sounds like it." Misty said, as the noise was repeated, "Check behind the counter, see if theres a weapon. Misty inwardly kicked herself for not checking before.

Bridgette ruffled behind the counter, "I found abat!" Bridgette said, brandishing the blunt metal object. She handed it to Misty, and crouched behind her, "I'm right behind you." She whispered.

"My hero," Misty teased, holding the bat ready. The two girls slowly advanced toward a door near the back ,Misty thought it led to the stock room. The scratching noise was getting louder, more frantic, and Misty almost lost her nerve, wanting to drop the bat, grab Bridgette, and run.

But she gathered herself, and reached for the handle. "Ready?" She whispered to Bridgette, who gave her butt a pinch.

"NOW!" Misty jerked the door open, bat raised high, ready to strike...

And a dog, a big Rottweiler, came sauntering out of the room, whimpering.

Misty lowered the bat, handing it to Bridgette, "The poor thing!" She cried, crouching down near it, holding out her hands. She had always loved dogs, more then she did most people, and she especially loved Rottweilers.

The dog crept forward, sniffing her hand, and Misty petted it gently. The big dog growled gently, not hostile, and leaned on Misty, who petted the dog.

"He's got a collar, see if its got his name on it." Bridgette said, coming closer herself.

Misty checked the tag, "Goliath." She read, "Appropriate."

"They must have left him here, the poor guy." Bridgette said, "Can we keep him, huh, can we?"

"Like you need to ask?" Misty said, "Grab some dog treats and dog food, if they got any, he can ride in the back."

Marie had been waiting for them, the gas tank all full. Her eeys were wide as they walked out with arm loads of food, and a Rottweiler. "Where did you get all the money to pay for all that?"

"I told we, we had a lot of money, tips and such from the bar." Bridgette casually answered.

"And the dog?"

"The, uh, the owner couldn't watch him anymore, he asked us to take him with us." Misty said, helping load the food. She opened the door, and the dog, Goliath, hopped right into the backseat, like he owned the truck.

Marie looked like she wanted to question them further, but decided against it. She merely got back into the drivers seat, sitting up front with Bridgette, while Misty climbed in back with the dog.

They were on the road again, heading to Iowa, three women and a dog, racing against time.
"Alright, I've been thinking. When life gives you lemons, don't make lemonade. Make life take the lemons back! Get mad! I don't want your damn lemons, what am I supposed to do with these? Demand to see life's manager! Make life rue the day it thought it could give Cave Johnson lemons! Do you know who I am? I'm the man whose gonna burn your house down! With the lemons! I'm gonna get my engineers to invent a combustible lemon that burns your house down!"


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Nemesis
Adam, Paul, Billie--Let the Good Times Roll

“How’s the foot, dumbass?” Adam said, patting Paul’s wrapped foot a little more forcefully than he needed to.

“Ouch! Christ, man, I’m wounded, can you cut me some fucking slack?” Paul whined.

Adam shook his head and decided to let the cursing slide right now since his kids weren’t in earshot. “Nope.” He opened a granola bar and took a big bite, sitting next to Paul on the small couch of the bus and handing him a beer. “You are SUCH an idiot, dude.”

“Fuck you,” Paul said weakly as he cracked open the beer and chugged. What could he say? He felt like a giant douche. He was busy playing hero and ended up a crippled joke. “Why are you hating on me so much, man?”

Adam smiled. “You’re my brother, I’m supposed to give you shit,” he said matter-of-factly.

Paul grinned back. He and Adam had been through a lot over the years. “Yeah, yeah.” Adam was right. When you had a brother, you fucked with him. It was like a male code of conduct rule. “So what now, dude?”

“You mean where are we going?”

“Yeah, where are we going?”

“We’re going to Utah, Paul. That’s where my dad is headed. We’ll meet him there.”

Paul snorted. “What makes your fucking family so much more important than ours?”

“What do you mean?” Adam asked, but fearing where this conversation was headed.

“I MEAN, my man,” Paul sneered, finished his beer and crumpling the can, “what the FUCK makes meeting your dad more important than me finding my mom, or Mark finding his folks? Or Sweet Children meeting up with THEIR families?”

Adam didn’t know what to say. Paul was right. His father was no more important to them than their families were to him. He’d made the choice for them all, deciding where to go without any regard for what anyone else wanted. Granted, he’d told them where he was going and gave everyone the chance to go their own way, but what choice was it really when he was bogarting the fucking bus for himself? Adam shifted uncomfortably.

“Yeah, man, exactly right. Now you’re thinking from someone else’s perspective.” Paul belched and reached for another beer. Adam was silent. He didn’t think it was a good idea for Paul to get drunk, but then again he didn’t want to tell him what to do right now, either.

Adam started to speak when Frank burst through the door, his eyes bulging in fear. “It’s Billie!”

Adam and Paul shot up from the couch and followed Frank to the bunk area. Billie was convulsing on the floor, foaming at the mouth.

“Jesus!” Adam shouted. “What the fuck did you guys do?!?” He meant, what drugs had they been taking.

Mike was crying in the corner. “I thought it was speed, but I don’t think it was,” he said between sobs.

Adam wanted to shout for Willow, but she was with the kids getting them ready for a nap and he didn’t want to scare them. Adam flipped Billie over and stuck his finger in his mouth to clear his airway. “You have no idea what he took?” he asked incredulously.

Mike shook his head and Frank just looked away. Adam realized then just how young they were, and understood. He’d been there himself. But he’d never killed any of his friends. What Mike and Frank must be feeling right now, Adam couldn’t fathom.

Paul hovered over Adam’s shoulder. “Check his pulse, dude.”

“He’s fucking convulsing, man, I think he’s still alive,” Adam snapped.

“Just trying to help” Paul muttered, and scooted back to give Adam more room.

Adam jammed his fingers down Billie’s throat to induce vomiting, but he was worried that it would still be too late even if Billie could puke. The drugs were in his system by now. Still, it was really the only chance. Billie finally gagged and Adam turned him to his side. A stream of watery puke jetted out from Billie’s mouth. He coughed, and his eyes rolled up into his head. Adam slapped Billie’s face—hard. A bright red handprint stood out like a tattoo on his pale, pasty cheek. Finally, Billie blinked and his eyes began to focus.

“What the fuck are you all staring at?” he asked spitefully, then passed out into blissful oblivion.
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Rubén/Zeke – Morning light


“Wake up sleepyhead.” A soft gentle voice said in Rubén’s ear. He smiled as the words caused a soft brush of air to flow past his face tickling his ear. He turned a little and stretched out, “I have nice hot tea and breakfast is almost ready.” The voice said again, the tone was very calm very quiet, very sweet. It filled him with warmth and comfort. “hmmm.” Rubén said through his lips still trying to come to life, how long had he being sleeping, he didn’t feel tired, that was good. Finally his eyes opened sleepily as he stretched his arms over his head, hitting the wall, “ugh.” He said starting to look around not quite sure were he was at first the morning light had changed the way the room looked and felt, “We fell sleep, I was going to wake you, but I decide to let you sleep well I got ready.” Zeke said looking at Rubén he was freshly showered and shaved, he looked, of course amazing, well he on the other hand; mornings he was not at his best Rubén thought. “You know you talk in your sleep?” Zeke said as Rubén finally started to stir. “Do I?” Zeke nodded with a sheepish smile on his face, “ayep.”

Rubén looked around smiling wondering what he said in his sleep that had Zeke smiling and then the gravity of the situation started to sink in, they fell asleep, for how long? Had it happened? Rubén felt his heart start to beat faster, “what time is it?” He said his voice a little more of a panic as he stood up. Zeke touched his arm he was calm and soothing, “Don’t worry, nothings happened, it’s…it’s ok.” Zeke said his face frowning just a bit. Rubén looked to the TV, “have they?” Zeke watched him and followed his eyes, “It’s nothing new, the networks are all off the air, it’s only a recorded message telling people where to go, what to do, what to bring and then different prayers from all the different major religions.” Rubén frowned, that was it, that was all they were getting he shook his head, “I was kind of hoping it was a dream.” He looked at the TV again, what was there more to learn, today was the day, they would either live or die, either way he was here with Zeke and that offered him comfort the most comfort he had every felt.

“I did find a local radio station that was still broadcasting, power, water, gas are still all being maintained and they promised to stay on the air as long as they could, they all seemed pretty calm as well, they were sending out messages to people, people who couldn’t reach family. If you want to listen I left it in the bathroom. They also said we are under Marshal Law and to just stay home or go to a shelter, but...” Rubén held his hand to Zeke’s mouth, “I don’t care, it doesn’t matter, it’s all up to God now. We know what we have to do, we know where we’re going, lets just spend this time together and not think about anything else, ok.” Rubén said smiling he felt calm now; clear. Zeke nodded smiling, in his own quiet way he had reached that same decision only earlier, “Alright, sounds like a plan.” Zeke took a deep breath, “did you want to shower or eat first?” Rubén looked at himself in one of the framed photos Zeke had. “If you don’t mind I’d like to shower. I feel gross.” Zeke smiled the grin said volumes, “See you in a few then.” Rubén smiled as heard a few soft little yips from the puppies whom Zeke had put in their little pen so he could sleep.

Rubén walked over to the pen and let them out, “No sense keeping them locked up.” Zeke grinned, “nope.”

The puppies happily jumped around at first on Rubén then onto Zeke. “Be back in a few.” Rubén said and headed up the stairs to the guest bathroom, where his dock kit was waiting for him he stopped and grabbed a towel from the bathroom and headed into the bedroom and pulled clean clothes, he looked at his suit and smiled, “maybe I should wear something nice today.” Then he thought about Zeke, he wasn’t fussy just comfortable, so he decided to follow his lead and pulled out a pair of jeans, a dress shirt a white tee-shirt and underwear. He hung them on the door and quickly changed out of his clothes dropping them to the floor, he wrapped a towel around his waist and walked out of the bedroom closing the door so Barker, DeLonge, Hoppus and Shanna didn’t get in there and make a mess, they were terribly cute, but like small children they had great potential to create huge messes. He walked into the bathroom, closed the door and turned on the shower. He pulled off the towel and placed it on the counter next to shower door.

He looked at his reflection in the mirror and rubbed his chin studying his face he pushed all the thoughts of what today was away, he was going to stay strong and make every moment count. He could curl up in a ball and cry, easily, but that wasn’t how he wanted to spend his time. He wanted to spend it with Zeke and the puppies laughing, talking just being together. Was there potential for Zeke and he to be anything more, to share anything more; maybe. But why spend their last few hours on ‘maybes’ and ‘whatifs’ there was no point to it.

His shower and grooming process took no more then 40 minutes; he felt clean and relaxed, very much like a new man, he loved how his face felt after a nice shave. He looked at the radio once and debated turning it on but decided not to, he was leaving it up to God, his only hope was that it would be quick and not hurt. And that was nothing he could learn from the radio. As he walked down the stairs dressed and feeling pretty good, he did spend some time cleaning up the bathroom and the bedroom leaving it as he found it. “I thought maybe you fell in.” Zeke said walking over handing him a nice hot tea.

“I thought I got ready pretty quick normally if I have to iron it takes me a little more time, but I wanted to hurry back.” Rubén said, he was impressed that it only took him 40 minutes to get ready it normally took him an hour. Zeke just smiled at him, “well I hope you like it.” Zeke said pointing to the dinning table it was beautifully laid out. “It smells really good. What is it?”

Zeke laughed, “eggs, bacon, potatoes, pancakes, milk, fresh fruit and tea.” Rubén looked at him, “but you’re a vegan?” Zeke smirked walking over to the table, “I am, you didn’t ask what any of it was made from you just asked what it was.”

Rubén thought for a moment and walked over looking at all the food, “Are you expecting an army?” Zeke shrugged taking a seat, “I wasn’t sure what you would like, so I made a little of everything. Now sit down before it gets cold.”

Rubén quipped standing at mock attention, “yes Sir.” Zeke shot him a quick confused look and saw that he was teasing him, he shook his head and took a sip of his own tea as Rubén sat down taking another sniff, “It smells really good, do I want to know what it actually is?” Zeke looked at him, “well I can assure you, it’s not what you think and as long as you like it, does it really matter.” Rubén thought for a minute, “I guess not, shall we say grace?” Zeke looked at him and smiled bowing his head.
May it be said, when the sun sets on your life, you made a difference.
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Alex/Domenica/Roz/Sam/Ames/Stu - Viva Las Vegas

Alex sat in the backseat of the car, leaning against the window, idly watching the scenery pass, though his mind was miles away. He couldn’t help but worry about Ames, yes, she said she was fine and would stay holed up in Vegas, but he’d always thought of her as his little sister. As the car moved through the Mojave desert, plugging steadily Eastward towards Las Vegas, then Park City, Utah and, hopefully, salvation or, at the very least, relative safety.

The window felt cold against he cheek and Alex soon drifted off into a rather uneasy sleep.

January, 2009

Alex sat in the passenger seat of an unmarked detective’s car in Mobile, Alabama. Leo sat in the driver’s seat while Glenn sat in a parked car across the street and a block up.

“So, you really think he’s gonna go after this woman, Mr. Castle?”

“Please, call me Alex, Detective. And yes, I do think he’s gonna after her...well, possibly her, mainly on account of her being the closest to the description I gave in the book. I mean, yeah, there were a couple others, but all the same.”

Leo nodded and took a sip from his water bottle, watching the house of Janet Witherton, a woman who matched Alex’s descriptions in his book and one of three such woman who drove a maroon 1999 Pontiac Montana. Another car drove past them, parking near the laneway that Alex and Leo were watching. Leo reached for his radio.

“Glenn?”

“Yeah?”

“We’ve got movement here. Someone just pulled in back behind the house.”

“Copy that. Maintain position. We’ve gotta confirm it’s him.”

“Copy. Over and out,” Leo dropped the radio and glanced at Alex. “I still can’t believe someone’s actually copycatting a novel, I mean, that sounds like something out of a movie or a TV show.”

Alex nodded, “the least they could’ve done is copycat a decent novel. I mean, I found it hard to believe that piece of shit got published, let alone actually have people read it.”

“It was a decent book, Alex. Not the best I’ve read by any means, but hey, as far as debut novels go. You gonna write a second one?”

Alex exhaled and took a drink from his bottle of water. “I’ve been considering one. A sequel, actually.”

“Any ideas as far plotlines are concerned?”

“Well, I’d been considering expanding a short story I wrote back when I took a workshop before this novel got published. It was about a modern day serial killer copycatting Jack the Ripper’s MO. But he operates in modern day LA and targets lawyers instead of prostitutes.”

Leo smiled, “sounds pretty interesting, actually. Think you could send me a manuscript or something like that. I mean, my nephew’s already insanely jealous that I’ve met you...but if I were to get an advanced reading copy or a manuscript for him, well, he’d love me forever, I think.”

“If it gets published, I’ll send him a signed first edition. How’s that sound?” Alex offered a hand to Leo.

Leo extended his hand, “sounds good to me.” The two men shook, “he wants to be a writer too, actually.”

“In the meantime,” Alex said, reaching into the back seat and pulling a Sharpie and copy of his novel from his duffel bag. “What’s the kids name?”

“Dominic,” Leo said.

Alex opened the front cover and uncapped the Sharpie.

Dominic,

Some advice: write what you know and never give up.

Best of luck,

Alex Castle


Alex stuck two business cards in the book as well, one for his agent, and his own card for his contracting company. He handed the novel to Leo, “the cards have my agent’s number as well as my home number. If the kid’s serious and wants advice, have him call me and I’ll try and work something out.”

Leo looked stunned. “Thank you. He’s gonna flip when he sees this.” Leo looked out the window and at the car parked near the laneway. The driver stepped out and pulled a baseball cap low over his face, obscuring it from anyone who may’ve been looking; Leo quickly grabbed the radio. “Glenn...he’s moving. Headed up the laneway.”

“Copy that, Leo. Move in.”

“Copy,” Leo said. He flung open his door and stepped out on the blacktop. He walked slowly down the road, meeting up with Glenn and another detective near the laneway entry. The trio moved up and Alex watched; a few moments later, there was a gunshot and Leo appeared once more with Glenn. The two were hauling the injured mystery man down the laneway.

Leo strode over to the car as Glenn loaded the man into the backseat of a cruiser that appeared moments later. Leaning in the window, he looked at Alex.

“He wants to meet you, Alex.”
The Present

Alex jerked awake, looking out at the vast desert; only know he saw something else. “Vegas!”

Roz turned to face him, “yup. We’re nearly there, Alex.”

Sam’s eyes flicked to the rear view mirror. “Which hotel she say she was in?”

“Monte Carlo,” Alex said, taking the Blackberry from the center console. He tapped out a quick message to Ames:

A,

Just outside town. Nearly to hotel. What floor are you on?

Alex


A few minutes later(though to Alex it felt like several eons), the phone chirped.

Alex,

Monte Carlo; fourth floor. Stu and I will be in lobby.

A


“They’re at the Monte Carlo,” Alex said. “She and this guy named Stu are gonna wait for us in the lobby.”

Lobby of the Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino

Ames and Stu stood in the lobby, staring out the shattered glass of the main doors, looking for any signs of life. The city was deserted, a gust of wind blew a few stray flyers around, lending an even eerier Old West Ghost Town feel to the empty streets of Las Vegas.

“There!” Stu shouted, pointing to a steadily moving gleam. A few moments later, the vehicle pulled into view and stopped in the turnaround. The door flung open and Alex leapt out, dashing across the trash strewn lot; Ames bolted out through the doors and the two embraced.

“I was so worried,” Alex said.

“I’m sorry! I meant to text you and say I was in Vegas, but I got sidetracked watching the military evacuate a bunch of people. I met another two people in line, but one killed herself and the other just disappeared.”

“It’s okay,” Alex said. He pulled out his silver pocket watch and opened it. “We’re head to Utah now and have ‘X’ hours till this thing hits. We’ve gotta get moving, okay?”

Stu picked his way across the lot and approached Alex.

“Stu Miley,” he said, offering hand. “You’re a lucky man, Alex.”

“Huh?”

“Landing this girl? One-in-a-million bro. Don’t let her go.”

“What’re you talking about?”

Ames looked nervous, “Stu. I can explain.”

“Explain what?” Stu and Alex said in unison.

“Alex isn’t my boyfriend. He’s my cousin,” Ames said. “I’m sorry...I just met you and wasn’t sure what you were like...so I said he was my boyfriend to avoid any commitments.”

Stu looked saddened, confused and angry at all one time.

“Well,” Alex said. “This is awkward.”
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Cat Hansen and Willow Barkley - No-no Song
OOC: The following broadcast is from 13 October 2008

“Hello, hello, Californians. Lucky me, you’re listening to Stray Cat. Welcome, friends, to K106.8 Jahmon Radio. I have an interesting topic for you guys today: medicinal marijuana. Or just bud in general.

My friend, Bug, has Ulcerative Colitis and it’s pretty painful. That’s a disease that causes massive inflammation in the large intestine. Bug has a prescription for weed due to the discomfort this disease causes him. Well, he got into an argument with some old bitty at Barnes and Noble while looking for this month’s issue of High Times. For those of you who aren’t down with stoner lit, it’s a magazine all about the herb. Anyway, she started giving him an earful about how society’s downfall will be caused by the green. Bug asked what her husband does for a living. She said that he’s a bartender. He laughed and walked away.

Now, in both Bug’s and my opinion, alcohol is leagues more destructive than marijuana. I won’t even start with the damage it does between drunk driving and liver damage. What I will say is this: Take your average drunken father and replace his whiskey with a joint. Do you still see him beating his son? No. Well, I don’t at least. I see that dad sitting and playing videogames or watching crazy Youtube videos with his boy instead. But hey, that’s just me. I want to know what you all think. Is Miss Daisy right? Is ganja going to cause all hell to break loose? Or are boozers better off as users? You tell me. The number is 1-800-652-4666 or 1-800-6 JAHMON. We’ve got a caller already. Jeez, I love you guys. Call-uh numbuh one, whatchoo got to say?”

“Hey, Cat. Love the show. Let me just say that when you started on the pot thing, I rolled my eyes. I’m not against it but I’m not for it, you know?”

“I get you, dawg.”

“But now… I don’t know what it is with you, man, but you would probably be the best car salesman ever. Way too persuasive for your own good.”

“I try, I try. So what’s your name and what’s your stance now?”

“It’s Jay Stackhouse. And I’m for it now, dude. I mean… that old lady was off her rocker. The end of the world? Come on now. Like, I have a friend, Lafayette, and we clash with this sometimes but now… I get it. It only makes you hungry, happy, and sleepy. He’ll be saying, ‘I told you so,’ because of you. So thanks a bunch, man hahaha.”

“Thank you, Mr. Stackhouse. ‘Twas a pleasure. We’re going to take a short break but I’m not done talking to you all about Puff the magic dragon. Call in after this. Right now, we’ve got a great number for everyone: druggies, straight edge folk, Fab Four fans and so on. Here is my favorite Beatle singing his own little diddy: Ringo Starr's No-no Song.”



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Cat and Willow stepped out of the bus in front of a hospital. Or what once was one. St. Joseph’s hospital was covered in broken windows; there were papers and bandages and blood littering the sidewalk. A group of five people ran out and looked at the two.

“If you’re going in there… you’re going to want protection. And luck.” Then, they vanished down the street. Adam came running to the bus’ doors.

“I’m coming with you,” he said, staring at Willow with the determination she so loved.

“No, you aren’t. You have to stay with the kids.” As stubborn as Adam was, Willow was tenfold. And Adam knew he wouldn’t win this one. He handed Cat the crossbow.

“You can work one of these?” he asked.

“Yeah, man.” Cat said, taking it and making sure to not point it at his foot. Adam nodded, kissed Willow, and let her and Cat go inside.

They stepped over broken glass that was once a sliding emergency room door and looked around. Although no one could be seen, they could hear running footsteps and shouts from floors above. The room looked as if someone had let a wild bison run through it. Not to mention all the power seemed to have shut down and only the emergency hall lights were on. The sight was the eeriest Cat had ever seen. He jumped when someone grabbed his shoulder.

“Chill,” Willow said. “Look, do you really know how to use that thing?”

“I… uh… I’ve watched Lord of the Rings…” Cat grinned nervously.

“That’s not even a cross- give me that!” Willow snatched the crossbow from him and kept it aimed in front of her.

“I think we’re going to have to go a few floors up if we want anything… looks like this area here has been cleaned out.” Cat suggested. Willow nodded and they headed for the steps.

The dimly lit stairwell was silent save for the occasional bouts of noise from different floors. Cat and Willow got off onto the ICU level and looked around.

Room after room after lifeless room… nothing but bodies. The back up power had turned on just in time to emit the awful sound that is a flat line. The sound of it flooded the floor, screeched in their minds. Cat couldn’t look at the beds any longer. As he and Willow turned to leave, they heard a soft sob. In a room next to a young, dead patient, was a doctor. He was huddled on the floor, shaking and crying. Cat cleared his throat.

Jumping, the doctor looked up. He covered his face in with his hands and sobbed, “If you’re going to kill me just do it.”

“We aren’t going to kill you,” Cat said, “We just need your help. What’s your name?” Cat offered him his hand to help him on his feet. The doctor stood and wiped his face on his sleeve.

“Dr. Merlotte. But you can call me Samuel. Or Sam. Whatever.”

“Samuel, nice to meet you. I’m Cat Hansen, and this is my friend, Willow Barkley. We need some supplies.”

“Wait… Stray Cat Hansen?”

“The very same,” Cat smiled lightly.

“I get your show on Sirius Radio. I’d be happy to help.” And though it seemed impossible, the young doctor smiled with his swollen, red eyes. The three walked down the hall to another wing…

“Penicillin, amoxicillin, epinephrine, diphenhydramine, hydrogen peroxide, asprin...” Dr. Merlotte was tossing items into a bag. He’d given them three first aid kits, a plethora of pills, aloe creams and bandages galore… they didn’t know how to thank the man.

“Oh, and crutches for your cripple friend. He’s a decent singer; I’ve heard the band before. Not exactly my genre but hey, I give them credit. Is there anything else you need?”

Willow and Cat were speechless. All they could think was that there should be a Saint Merlotte. They were about to thank the man and leave when Cat thought of one more thing. His cheeks turned scrarlet.

“Uh, doc?”

“Yes, Stray Cat? Er… Cat, rather.” The doctor smiled warmly now.

“Well, see since Paul is going to be in a lot of pain, and there’s a lot of stress going on… and… well… you guys don’t have any…” Cat stopped short, put his palm on his forehead, and looked up and Samuel. “You catching my drift, doctor?”

Samuel laughed, “I’ll be right back.” After five minutes, he returned with a large bag of beautiful, untainted marijuana and raised his eyebrow.

Cat sank to his knees. “I love you, man.” The three of them laughed.

“Alright well, I guess my work is done.” Samuel smirked.

“Wait,” Cat thought for a bit. “Just walk out to the bus with us. I’m sure everyone would love to thank you.”

The doctor considered this and agreed. “Fine. I’d love to meet them.”

The group headed outside carefully and got to the bus entrance. The doors slid open to Adam standing on the steps; Paul stuck his head out of the window.

“What’d ya get?” Paul asked.

Cat held up the med bag, the bag of weed, and then nodded his head toward Samuel. Then he looked at Adam.

“Can we keep him?”
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Sam waited semi-impatiently at the door, surrepetitiously tapping his foot as he waited for Alex to get back. While he hated changing plans halfway through, Colorado was a little farther inland so if and when the shit hit the fan, they’d be just that much farther away from the spray. All he’d really have to do is get another message off to Adam and Everything would be good to go.

Unless you get executed.

Sam frowned. Yes, there was that. The discovery of the kerosene in the gas can that the Captain had given them at least served to cement in his mind that the Captain, certainly, and others, probably, had a vested interest in keeping them with them and not letting them branch off on their own. But why? What in heaven’s name could they possibly have that these Army men would find so goddamned important?

Sam was at a loss. And relaly, he supposed it could be anything. There was no screening process for the Army, really. No one did psychological evaluations on the potential enlists, in fact, they were so hard up for recruits after 9/11 that they were pretty well taking everyone that was coming through the door. That thought certainly didn’t leave him with a warm feeling in his heart, that was for sure.

As if on cue, a soft voice behind him made him turn. Sam saw Lt. Johnson, looking warily over at the back of the Captain. He gestured for Sam to follow him and then turned his back. Sam mulled it over. Johnson could be trying to separate him from the group, but there were other ways, and he had the concealed gun. He weighed the options, decided that there were more in favor of following than against and elected to follow. He told Roza that he was leaving with Johnson, so if something went horribly wrong, they’d know. Domenica and Gareth were off on a search, so Roza was at the vehicle alone. He volunteered to stay and let Johnson wait, but roza waved him away.

Sam played careful, tracking down Johnson perched in an alley behind an insurance office. He saw Sam and gave a little wave. Sam approcahed and left a couple of feet between himself and Johnson. Johnson said, “Thanks for coming. We need to talk.” Sam said, “I’m here. What do you want to talk to me about?” Johnson smiled sadly and said, “I get the feeling that you don’t trust me.”

Sam was silent for a moment, trying to decide if there was more to this or if it was just a fishing expedition. He said, “I have no idea what you’re talking about, Lt. I have the upmost faith that you’re doing everything in your power to….” Johnson held up a hand and said, “Cut the bullshit, I know what you’re feeling, and to be honest, I don’t blame you. In a way, I think you’re exactly right to be feeling the way you are.”

Sam arched a brow. Johnson said, “The Captain has been acting a bit irregular. I’m not sure why. Ever since the initial announcement he’s been….Odd. I want you to know that I could be shot on the spot for even…” Sam held up a hand and said, “The secret is safe with me. Were you with the Captain when he siphoned the gas for us?” Johnson shook his head. He said, “All of the sudden, he was back and told me to give it to you. It caught me off guard because the Captain rarely does anything to help anyone.”

Sam said, “It was filled with Kerosene.”

Johnson looked half surprised. He said, “I knew something was up…but wow.” Sam said, ‘why didn’t you say anything?” Johnson said, “You looked smart. Not the kind of person who would go dumping strange fuel into a gas tank without testing it first.” Sam said, “Well, you were right on that count. So tell me, why does the Captain have a vested interest in keeping us together?”

Johnson shrugged. He siad, “I honestly don’t know. It took every bit of my clout to even get you to be able to go pill hunting. Now he’s asking questions about what you’ve got in there. And I like the jacket, it covers up the gun very well.” Sam frowned. Johnson said, “Seemed odd that you were still wearing it, buttoned-up and all. So it occurred to me that it would conceal a bulge easily. And that would mean that you’re not as arthritic as you appear.”

Sam shrugged. Johnson said, “It’s alright. Here, I’ve got a spare.” Johnson handed over a .45 automatic. Sam ejected the clip like Murray taught him, checked the chamber and reloaded. The gun checked out clean. Sam opened his jacket, put the safety on, and stuck the gun into the back of his pants through the belt. Johnson said, “I don’t know what’s going on. Half the people are with him, a ¼ aren’t sure, and another ¼ think he’s going nuts. You thinking about a cut and run?”

Sam said, ‘we might be.” Johnson wrote and handed a text. He said, “This is my number. If and when you decide to cut, I’d like to ask you to let me know. In the mean time, I’ll work on the ¼ of the soldiers that are undecided. “ Sam said, “Alright. Keep your head down. I’m going to go out on a limb here, because you seem honest enough. Just don’t fuck around.”

Johnson nodded and disappeared around the corner. Sam waited for several long minutes, then broke away in the opposite direction. No one noticed him as he slipped back in next to the Ford hybrid. Roza seemed relieved to see him. She said, “Everything okay?” Sam said, “Just the news that we may have an unexpected ally. He gave her a quiet, brief rundown of the conversation between himself and Johnson.

While he was describing, Domenica and Gareth returned. The convoy was stationary, waiting for Alex’s return. Sam filled them in on the short meeting with Johnson. Sam looked at Domenica and said, “Seems we were both right. You were right to trust Johnson and I was right not to trust The Captain. As for the others, Johnson’s working on the undecideds. I told him nothing of our potential plan to head for Colorado. I know that was shelved while we waited to get Ames. Hope they’ve got a vehicle, otherwise we’ll be in each other’s laps.”

Domenica said, “Well, when the time is right, we’ll break off and bring Johnson with us.” Sam nodded and said, “We’ll have to coordinate with him, otherwise we might get involved in a firefight. We’ve got plenty of guns now, but aside from the shotguns, we’ve got no auto firepower. We’d be cut to ribbons against those machine guns they’re carrying.”

Sam looked around and withdrew the revolver from it’s holster. He handed it to Gareth but Gareth waved it away. He siad, “Never liked them.” Domenica sighed and said, “I’ll take it, if need be. Why are you giving it up?” She slipped it into her pocket. Sam withdrew the .45 from Johnson and said, “Our friendly Lt. Decided to arm me. No sense in me carry both guns, though.”

He slipped the 45. into his belt next to the revolver holster, as the .45 was too big for it, and then he rebuttoned the coat carefully. Again, no one was noticing them. It was a good sign. Domenica said, “Now all there is to do is wait.”

Sam nodded. He said, “Until the time is right.”
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Domenica/Sam/Alex/Ames –Las Vegas

Domenica walked back from the hotel to where the she left her vehicle. They left Sam there to rest, plus Alex, Ames and that other guy were no more then 30 feet from the vehicle talking. The window was opened and she tapped Sam on the shoulder, “Sam, you awake?” Sam’s eyes shot open and he looked at her, “What? Huh?” She smiled at him, “You feel sleep.” He looked at her, “I did?” She nodded, “We’re in Vegas. Alex is over talking with his cousin and that other guy.” Sam looked over at them, seeing them talk. “Where are those military guys with were with?” He said looking around not seeing them, “I’m not sure, we headed off to the Monte Carlo, I text them to let them know but I haven’t heard anything more from them. Do you think we should stick around or just continue going?” Sam looked at her, “If they find us they find us, I say we don’t worry about it.” He was glad to be rid of them, to be honest and he didn’t want to go looking for trouble, if there was any to be had or found. “Where’s Roza and Gareth?” He said continuing to look around.

“Bathroom.” Domenica said looking at the once grand entrance to the hotel the outside was bad but the inside was even worse, everyone had left in one hell of a hurry.

“I can’t believe it’s really happening, I mean look around. It doesn’t seem real to me. Where have they all gone?” Domenica said looking around her expression shaken.

“Have you seen others?” Sam asked looking around happy he could still feel his gun next to his chest. She nodded, “oh yes. There have been plenty of people, mostly on the main roads and highways, going as far inland as possible, for the most part it’s been calm and clear.” She sighed looking around, “But I think it’s because we waited so long to start leaving, we’re on the back end. I don’t know Sam. How bad do you think it’s going to be? Do you think we even stand a chance assuming we make it to Salt Lake or Denver? What about the rest of the world? All those people.”

He shifted in his seat, “We can’t think of them, we have our families to find and we really need to take care of ourselves right now, let God sort out the rest.” He said with a gentle smile opening the door and stepping out to stretch his legs. “Have you heard anymore from your folks?” She shook her head, “I doubt I will now. I have to keep faith we’ll find them in Park City or…” she trailed off. “What if we waited to long? What if we can’t find shelter? I just, I can’t shake this feeling.”

Sam took her shoulder, “You listen to me young lady, we’re going to be fine. We’re far enough inland and there are mountains blocking anything coming from the ocean, we just need to keep going. Not give up. You have family and I have my boy and grandkids to catch up with and I refuse to believe that we won’t see them again.” He said with a stern smile. She nodded looking around they heard a series of vehicles drive by on the street, it was a line of maybe 15 cars of different sorts, they were in a hurry to get out of town. “I guess we weren’t the only ones late in leaving.” Sam smiled seeing them continue to pass none of them giving them even a second look.

Domenica nodded, “I guess not.” They watch Alex and the others stop talking, the new guy walked off and Alex and the young woman walked up to them. “Domenica. Sam, this is my cousin Ames. Ames, this is Domenica and Sam two of the people I left Anaheim with.” The woman smiled, “Pleasure.” They all shook hands and offered weak smiles to each other. “We really should round up the others and get out of here.” Alex said not wanting to sit around too long, they still had hours of driving to do and the clock was ticking, “Where are Roza and Gareth?” Domenica smiled and pointed, “Bathroom, even the end of the world can’t stop nature.” Alex huffed and nodded thinking that a trip to the bathroom might not be such a bad idea.

“We can’t all fit in the car, do you have something to drive?” Sam said looking at Ames, “Smiley went to get the truck and get it topped off with fuel.” Domenica couldn’t believe anyone was actually called ‘smiley’ but whatever, people often thought she was Hispanic because of her name. She looked at Alex who continued, “I would prefer to not ride with him, he creeps me out.” Sam frowned not liking the sound of that. “Why?” Alex looked at him, “He was hitting on her; flirting.” Sam nodded he could see how that would creep someone out, “fair enough. We can sort out the seating arrangements when everyone gets back. In the mean time, I think we should all use the bathroom well we have the chance.” Sam thought about his own bladder, “But lets stay together and someone should stay with the car and wait for this Smiley guy.” Domenica could tell Sam wasn’t impressed with the name either, by how he said it.

“I’m fine. I went before I woke up Sam.” Domenica said and Ames nodded, “Ditto.” Alex looked at Sam, “somehow I thought it would be them who would have to use the restroom.” Sam shock his head stretching again, “Me too, maybe we should wait.” Ames and Domenica looked at the two guys, “I think we can handle ourselves for a few minutes.” Amex said looking at Domenica who agreed, “We’ll be fine. Look here come Roza and Gareth, now go, the sooner you go the sooner you’ll be back and we can all get out of here.” Sam and Alex headed off. Domenica shook her head in amusement and looked at Ames, “What’s deal with this Smiley guy, do we wait or leave him here?” Domenica asked surprised that she was asking this, but something about the way Ames seemed to act when she talked about him didn’t put her at ease. “Nah, he’s fine, just a little odd, I’m just glad Alex is here now and the rest of you; you all seem nice.” Domenica smiled, “Thanks.” She looked out at Sin City, the last time she was here, her Lisa and Sydney came to see a couple of the Cirque Du Soleil shows; Zumanity being her favorite at the time, “Have you ever been to Vegas before?” She asked trying to make conversation well they waited.
May it be said, when the sun sets on your life, you made a difference.
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Alex/Roz/Domenica/Stu/Sam/Ames - New Friend and Familiar Faces

Alex and Sam came back from using the washroom in the lobby of the Monte Carlo, Alex keeping his cricket bat slung over his shoulder at all times.

“Thanks again, Sam.” Alex said.

“For what?”

“Going outta the way, picking up my cousin. I don’t think I could forgive myself if anything happened to her,” Alex used the cricket bat to send a discarded soda can flying across the lot; it skidded to a stop at the wheel of a moving extended cab Ford F150 pick-up truck occupied by Stu Miley. Stu crushed it, then slammed on the brakes, spinning the wheel and stopping next to the parked Ford Escape. He clambered out of the drunk, swigging a can of beer he’d found in the back seat.

“Let’s move out boys and girls!” he whooped, tossing the beer can off to one side. He stepped out of the truck, “Ames. You’re with me, right?” He grinned lecherously.

Alex and Roz exchanged worried glances, while Sam walked over to Stu. “Look son, you’re drunk and in no shape to drive. Come on back to the truck and sleep it off son.”

Alex looked over Sam, then the truck. “I’ll take the truck. I drive the same truck at home, but a different model; this one’s the extended cab, not the normal cab. You gonna come with Ames?”

Ames nodded. “Anyone else coming with us?”


“I could, I guess,” Roza said. “Let the town drunk sleep it off in the backseat.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Alex said. Leading the others to the F150. Ames rode shotgun while Roza climbed in back. The two cars pulled out on to the strip, but, barely 500 feet down the road, the right rear tire blew out on the F150. Alex managed to avoid crashing the truck, then shut it off when he pulled off the to curb. The three climbed out while Dom pulled a U-turn and drove back.

Sam was the first one out of the car. “You all okay?”

“We’re good Sam,” Roza said, climbing out of the backseat. She walked to the bed of the truck and examined both the interior and underneath. “No donut.”

“Dammit!” Ames shouted. “There anyway we find another tire?”

“Well,” Sam said. “This can’t be the only F150 in the city. We just gotta find another one and a tire iron, then go from there.”

“Sounds like a plan Chief,” Alex said. He pulled the tire iron out of the bed and stared walking along the strip and came to one of many parking garages servicing the various hotels. This one was devoid of pickup trucks, so the group walked further up to the MGM Grand’s parking garage. On the top level they found the only car on the level was an extended cab F150 with an Enterprise Rental Car sticker stuck to the bumper, this one had supplies in the bed, but seemed to be abandoned. Alex set to work, prying off the hubcap as the others went to investigate various other cars on lower levels for water, food, first aid kids, extra clothing and other supplies. Alex placed the hubcap on the ground next to him and picked up the tire iron. Before he could even begin to loosen the first nut, he felt the cold steel of a gun pressing against his neck, followed quickly by the clicking of a hammer.

“Shit...twice in the same Goddamn day,” Alex dropped the iron.

“Get up. Step away from the car,” this voice was young, Alex figured he was on the cusp of puberty, and tinged with a light southern accent. Alex stood and turned to face his assailant. As Alex figured, he was in his early teens. Probably twelve or thirteen at the most; he had longish blonde hair, hazel eyes and wore a pair of frameless glasses. The kid’s eyes widened. “You’re Alex Castle!”

“I know you?”

“No, but I loved your book.” He pointed his gun into the truck where a well-worn copy of Silent Slasher lay on the backseat.

“Huh,” Alex said, “pleased to meet a fan I guess. What’s your name son?”

“Dominic,” the kid said, glancing over his shoulder. The door from the stairwell banged open and a figure wearing a wide-brimmed Stetson hat stepped out. The brim was low enough that Alex couldn’t make out the face.

“Dom, you alright?” the man asked, Alex recognized the voice.

“Wait, your last name wouldn’t be Van Dyke, would it?”

The kid nodded, “yeah. Why?”

“You hear with your uncle?”

“Yeah, he’s my guardian right now. My mom’s overseas on some research trip and my dad left us before I was even born,” Dominic said. “Why’d you ask?”

“Your uncle, his name Leo?”

Dominic nods.

“Jesus,” Alex said, he looked up at the steadily advancing figure. The man finally looked up and stopped dead in his tracks.

“Well I’ll be damned.” The man’s face broke into a wide grin. “Alex, you crazy sonuvabitch!”

Alex grinned back. “Leo, it’s been too long.” Alex hadn’t seen Leo since the murders went to trial the year before.

The two embraced. “What’re you doing here?”

“Well, I came to rescue my cousin. We found an F150 in one of the parking lots, but the tire blew out down the road. We came looking for a new truck we could take the tire from, but before I can even loosen the bolts, the kid pulls a gun on me.”

“Well you were trying to sabotage our ride,” Dominic said. “So I figured I’d make sure we kept it.”

“Can’t say I blame ya kid,” Alex said.

“There more of you here?” Leo asked. “Or just you and your cousin?”

“Whole bunch of us,” Alex said. “There’s my cousin Ames, a man named Sam, a drunk guy named Stu, two women named Roza and Domenica and myself. How ‘bout you man?”

“Just me and Dom,” Leo said. “So...how many cars you have?”

“A Ford Escape and the broken down F150. That’s it.”

“Well, that being the case,” Leo said. “You and Ames are riding with Dom and me.”

“Um, Alex. Who are these people?” Sam asked, gun at the ready.

“Just an old friend and his nephew,” Alex said.
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Skin by Spades aka Volture.