Part 82 (1/2)

”Sorry, okay? I was so upset when Cheehawk died, it was all I could do not to freak out.”

”I'd have to say that trying to blow up someone's truck comes pretty d.a.m.n close to freaking out.”

”Yeah, I guess so.”

”Why didn't you confront him on it?”

”What, and risk him shooting me?”

”He almost did, anyway.”

”Good point.”

Annja nodded. ”When you're an adult you'll learn all about foresight.”

”But apparently not the dangers of hitchhiking.”

”Wisea.s.s. So where are we going?”

”I know a place, and I want to show you something before you leave town for good.” Joey gave her directions and Annja drove for about two miles outside of town. Joey motioned to a spot near a sharp rock face. ”Park there.”

Annja slid the car into park and they both got out.

”I think you need this. From up here, we can see for quite a distance. It's one of my favorite places to come. Whenever I need to be with my friends.”

Annja smiled. ”I think we all need a place like that.” She walked to the edge of the precipice. Far below, she could see the swirling waters of the river that had nearly claimed their lives. She could see the mountains and the forests that had both ravaged and sheltered them. And overhead, clouds and sun mingled in the pale blue sky.

”It's time to say goodbye, Annja.”

Annja nodded. ”I wish things could have been different at the end with Jenny.” Annja wiped her eyes. ”See you on the other side,” she said quietly.

Joey stood out on the edge and whispered a chant of some sort before turning back to Annja. ”If it's all the same to you, I think I'll stay here for a while.”

”Really?”

Joey nodded. ”I'll find my own way back home.”

”I know you will.”