Chapter 35: A Brief Ray of Hope

Desperation gnaws at us. We push deeper into rural roads, eventually stumbling upon a small, nearly abandoned truck stop. The gravel parking lot is empty except for a battered pickup. Inside the dingy diner, an elderly woman behind the counter eyes us warily.

We grab a booth, heads low, scanning for signs of trouble. Elena sips stale coffee while I pick at a bagel. My entire body is wired with tension, expecting the SUV to roar in at any second.

Suddenly, the door opens. A tall stranger steps in—flannel shirt, worn cap. My heart lurches. But he just nods politely and orders a coffee. No threat. Relief floods me.

As we stand to leave, the old woman calls me over. "You two look like you need a place to rest." She slides a key across the counter, her gaze kind yet cautious. "Used to rent out the camper out back to travelers. It's not much, but it's better than sleeping in a car."

Elena and I exchange a hopeful glance. A stroke of luck? Or a trap? Either way, we're out of options. We accept the key, forcing smiles.