Runaways (Orphans 5)

"We don't want to go back. We can't go back,"

Raven cried. "He's a monster."

"If you have any legitimate complaints about

your foster parents, you should be telling your

counselors back in New York, not stealing cars and

driving across the country," Mr. Glashalter said. "Follow procedures. I'm sure you're familiar

with them. You've all been in the system awhile and .

. ."

"Oh, the system," Raven groaned. "I'll just run

away again," Raven threatened.

Mr. Glashalter's lips lifted and stretched. His

eyes narrowed as he stared at her.

"Then you'll just get into deeper trouble and

you won't have an opportunity like this, believe me,"

he said. "I assure you, if you are not cooperative . ." "We'll cooperate," Crystal promised quickly.

"Thank you for helping us."

Mr. Glashalter returned to his plastic smile and

directed himself at Crystal.

"Very wise decision, my dear. That's smart.

That way I can do what I can to help you," he told her.

"What do we do now?" Crystal asked.

"For now, I want you all to sit tight. I'll explain

things to the sheriff and speak with the assistant district attorney. It will take a while, but I think we can manage it all as long as you remain cooperative,"

he added with no veiled threat in his voice. He rose. "I'll be back shortly," he said and left us. As

soon as he did, Raven spun on Crystal. "Why don't

you tell him what we found in the car? Why don't you

tell him why we don't want to go back with Gordon

Tooey?" she asked.

"Why would they believe us, Raven? And then

what . . . Gordon changes his mind, presses charges