Gay teen Jack is hiding out in a bully’s car in the hopes of retrieving his backpack when he’s joined by another stowaway. Brittany, who wants to be called Brandon, is a transgendered classmate also on the run. When the bully crashes his car, it’s the start of a journey that will bring Jack and Brandon together in the hopes of finding a new future.<br><br>Along the way, they meet Buster, a dog that saves their lives; Alvin, who is heading to Denver to sell his car and offers them a ride; and Ducky, a loud-mouthed but loveable woman who is apparently more than just Alvin’s friend.<br><br>When a tornado hits, Jack and Brandon have a chance to prove their mettle and show what they are made of. But is there happiness at the end of their journey?

Breaking into Cars

Then Elvis said, “Ducky, you remember that slipped disc problem I had? The doctor told me that when I wrenched my ankle it might put that disc out again. And it apparently has gone out on me. I’m told by that rich bastard, I mean my doctor, that if I don’t get flat on my back for a couple of weeks, I could be paralyzed.” He turned from Ducky to me. “Son, I’m sorry, but I can’t take you and the car to Denver. I hoped we could do it; I really did.”


Ducky didn’t bother to wait. “Well, Buster, I’m really sorry to hear that, and maybe it’s just the gin speaking, but listen…Since she, I mean he, Brandon, isn’t going to be safe here, how about if she, I mean he, damn it, and I take the car to Denver? Ha-ha, maybe we’ll go see the same gender therapist as his old grandfather while we’re there! Do you like that idea, Brandon baby?”


Brandon was so excited. “I drive! Me drive! I get to drive?”


Ducky just nodded. “If it’s okay with Elvis here, yes.”


Chapter 27