Fallout (Crank 3)

broadcasting equipment

into the company van.

Just about the time

I’m ready to roll,

a beater Pontiac burps

into the parking lot.

Oh, no. It’s Montana.

Her real name is Corrine,

but she wanted her air

name to play off

Hannah Montana.

Don’t ask me why.

Morning, she breathes,

in her best “I’m trying

not to sound like

the dingbat I am” voice.

(Not that it works.)

Awesome day, huh?

“Uh, yeah.” I load

the last speaker. “Well,

I’m about ready. As soon

as Rick gets here …”

Montana’s head swings

side to side. Didn’t you

get the message? Rick

has a major flu bug.

She moves closer. Too

close. Her lips are four

inches from mine when

she says, It’s me and you.