I leaned back in my chair and closed my eyes, relaxing into the passenger seat. It felt good to be away from town, and the danger seemed a little more distant.
Lucas pulled the car into the parking lot of a rundown motel.
“We’re here,” he said, stopping the car.
The motel was nothing more than a row of tired rooms. The sun reflected off the windows, dazzling my eyes.
“Your room’s the one in front of us. I got some food in there for you, some water, snacks. Six pack of beers too, in the fridge.” He looked around at the two other cars in the lot. He pointed to one, a few spaces down from ours.
“See that car. That’s Al’s. Me and Al go way back. Hell, we went through the academy with Jack. He’s solid, ain’t never taken a bribe. Nothing more he likes than locking up scumbags. He’s gonna sit there, in his car, until I call him. He’s got a few days of food and fuel, and he’s gonna keep you safe. You get any trouble, you scream or run to his car.”
Lucas wiped a hand over his face, eyes narrow as he spoke quickly.
“I gotta get back home. Maria ain’t well, and the four kids are restless. She’ll never forgive me if I stay here.” He shook his head.
“That’s ok, Lucas. You got me here, safe. Call me if anything happens, okay?” I said, tapping him on the shoulder in thanks. He passed me a key for the room.
“You got it. Now go relax, watch some movies. Have a few beers. Won’t be long before you’re back home and curled up with Jack, or whatever it is you two get up to.” He grunted a laugh as I left the car.
I walked quickly to the door of my room, waving at Lucas as he reversed, car heading off on the road back to town.
Sighing, I entered the room. It was drab and tired Definitely needed a little love, but it was quite spacious, large double bed in the middle to the right. Big fairly modern looking flat screen TV opposite of that. A few bags sat on the table to the side of the TV, next to a large refrigerator.
I opened the fridge, studying the contents. I smiled at the pack of beers Lucas had left for me.
The shower was big and decent enough though a little dirty.
Well, I guess this is my home for a little while. Better get comfy and try to relax.
I looked longingly at the large, sturdy bed in front of me.
If only Jack was with me. I’m sure we could have some fun here. A few days would fly by in an instant…
I dozed on the bed for a few hours after watching a film and having some of the food Lucas had left for me. I rose to grab a cold beer from the fridge.
I felt safe enough but homesick. I was desperately missing Jack’s presence even though we’d only been together for less than a day. I longed for him and could think of little else. The quiet, dull motel room wasn’t helping. My mind swam in a tired haze, imagining our possible future together.
Suddenly, gunshots rang out in the parking lot. My stomach clenched with fear. I heard shouting from a few voices, one screaming in panic. More gunshots rang out from what sounded like an exchange between three or four people. The shots ceased after a brief moment.
Heavy boots approached my motel room door. I stood still, frozen in fear. I didn’t know what to think. I’d assumed without doubt that I was safe here and wondered how Conall had found me.
Well, it isn’t gonna be anyone else. I’m in trouble.
I grabbed my cell with a shaky hand, dialing Jack’s number as quickly as possible. It was answered after ringing for only a second. Jack’s voice calmed me somewhat, urgent and panicked.
“Eden! Conall knows where you are, he
…”
“He’s here, Jack! Help me! Where’s Lucas? What happened?” I spoke quickly, knowing I didn’t have long.
“Fuck. He beat Lucas up bad. Real bad, threatened his family. Lucas’s probably on his way to hospital by now. He’s in a bad shape but I’m sure he’ll make it. I’ll be there soon, babe. Hold on!”
I held the phone away from my ear as someone banged loudly on the door. Three slow, ominous knocks.
Knock… knock… knock.
“Jack, I’ll be ok. Get here as soon as you can. I… I love you.” I clicked the phone off, wondering at how I had time to feel sheepish about telling Jack I loved him after only knowing him for a week.