239

You check the time—8:15 am.

The house phone rings—Jaime's name appears on the caller ID.

"Jaime? Are you okay?"

"Yep, I'm good for now. Something interfered with my CB yesterday when we spoke, but now my phone's working. Weird. So, how's it going?"

As you hear his voice, you feel a sense of relief, and you fill Jaime in on everything that's happened since you last spoke. You hear a heavy sigh through the phone when you tell him about the deaths of your parents. The two of you spend a few minutes discussing your parents, and in true Jaime spirit he recalls the humorous story of how he first met them at a neighborhood party.

"Your mom and dad almost passed out when they saw me. Couldn't believe a boy this big could quote Hamlet and dance the cha-cha. They could believe I'd finish a rack of ribs, though." Hearing his story lifts your mood.

"I don't know your plans, but it might be best to stick it out there for now. How are you on food?" he asks.

"Pretty good. I have a few days' worth of food."

"Great. Good planning," Jaime says. "This isn't going to be over anytime soon. It sounds like Colorado has been hit hard. Looks like we're being quarantined. The military set up checkpoints, and FEMA camps are going up outside of quarantined areas. I'd be careful if you do go out. There's news of widespread looting and rioting. I met up with some people not far from where you are, just to be safe overnight. I'm leaving them in a bit and will scout out some safe havens for us. If you need me, though, don't hesitate to call. I'll make my way there. Damn, I gotta go. I'll see you soon. Stay safe, my friend."

"Okay, Jaime."

The call ends, and you consider your next move.

Next, you…