Higher

Breakdown

Two weeks later I was in need of more groceries. My fridge and pantry were unbearably empty and my stomach was screaming for sustenance. I was able to save enough after paying all my bills to spend more than usual on food. 

I thought I might even have enough extra to buy supplies to start some work on the outside of my home. 

It was a Friday evening, and I should wait until daylight to go out knowing this town, but I at least needed food tonight. It was decided; groceries now, home supply store tomorrow morning.

Throwing on a light sweater, I grabbed her keys and purse leaving the house. The road into town was already dark with no street lights to guide the way. It always spooked me to travel in this area at night, especially since I knew those who lived around here. It was why I avoided doing it. 

My cramping stomach reminded me why I was taking the risk tonight.

"2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 ..." 

I counted to keep my mind from creating horror stories about the shadows along the road.

I was down to the last stretch of road before turning onto main street when my car began to vibrate and sputter. Immediately I stopped counting and began cursing. This sedan had survived and pulled through for so many years, why did it have to decide now was a good time to break down. 

I wasn't even sure I could afford to get it fixed without starving for a few months. This meant I would have to limit my spending tonight (if I even got to the grocers alive) and postpone the house work. 

Again.

Smoke seeped from under the car hood and wisped in my headlights making me even more unnerved. The headlights being the only source of light on this dingy road. The two homes nearby had been abandoned for some time. I knew druggies occasionally used them as hubs. 

I was hesitant to leave my car, but I had to check the engine. I had no phone, and no one to call even if I had one. Worse comes to worse I would walk the rest of the way to town and use a payphone to call for a tow.

After investigating my engine I decided I absolutely needed a tow and would be spending a pretty penny to make the car workable again. Pulling my sweater tighter around me, against the light chill, I began to make her way down the rest of the road with a brisk walk. 

I would make it to town in 12 minutes and 8 seconds if my math was right.

I was hyper aware of my surroundings, half expecting someone to pop out and jump me. That's why I immediately noticed when a car turned onto the road heading in the direction of my home, away from town. I kept an eye on the headlights, although they blinded me enough to not be able to tell what kind of car was approaching my form. 

I willed the car to bypass me without any pause or slow down. I really didn't want to deal with anyone who might hurt me right now; I was barely healed from my father. Unfortunately, the car began to slow down. 

I picked up my speed when the car pulled over to a complete stop.

"What the hell are you doing Jeanne?" 

The gruff, loud sound of Mr. Houston hit my ears and sent relief throughout me despite the obvious anger in his voice.

Anthony wouldn't harm her, at least I thought he wouldn't. I watched the door to his truck open and slam closed, his heavy form approaching me. Out of instinct I stepped back from his intimidating figure when he stepped too close and he paused an arms length away.

"Jeanne, what's going on? Don't you know how dangerous it is to be out here in the dark and all alone?" 

He questioned irately with his arms crossed over his broad chest while his eyes looked down upon her.