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The shrillnessof Claire’s ringtone echoed through the empty coffee shop earning her a scowl from the bored barista. The number read unknown, but Claire quickly answered anyway. Relief swept through her when she heard Betty’s voice on the other end.

“Where are you?” Claire demanded. “I’ve been waiting here forever.”

“I know,” Betty answered. “I can see you.”

Claire’s head swiveled from side to side. The coffee shop remained as empty as ever.

“Stop,” Betty ordered. “You look paranoid.”

“That’s because I am!” Claire snapped. “Where are you?”

“I’m sorry. I’m just being cautious. Come outside and take a left. Walk two blocks, then take another left. I’ll meet you beneath the overpass.”

“This is ridiculous. Why can’t you just come here?”

“I’m watching to make sure you’re not being followed.”

“I’m not. I told you; Jake has no idea I snuck out. Or at least he didn’t, but now that I’ve been sitting here for an eternity?—”

“Claire! You know what’s at stake. Just do it.”

“No. I missed the memo where you were put in charge, but I’m done following blindly. If you have news just tell me.”

“Not over the phone.”

“Then come to the coffee shop.”

The barista shot Claire a withering glare, probably hoping she’d just leave already so the girl could close up for the night.

“Just tell me one thing,” Claire said. “Did you find him?”

“Meet me and find out.” Then the line went dead.

Out of options Claire stood up, dropped a few bills on the table and walked back into the inky blackness of the frosty night.

Betty’s directions were easy enough to follow. Left, two blocks, left again. As promised, they led to a sketchy looking overpass.

The traffic on the street above sounded like thunder rolling overhead as Claire slinked further into the shadows. She let her eyes adjust. Graffiti, cardboard boxes, soiled sleeping bags, crushed beer cans and broken bottles … all the signs of a five-star transient hideout.

Claire wanted to call out for Betty or Max but kept quiet on the off chance they weren’t the only ones hiding here.

This wasn’t the kind of place she wanted to be caught trespassing.

The crunch of gravel behind her made her whirl around, but not in time. The scream died in her throat as strong arms circled around her, a large, gloved hand covering her mouth.