Faded With A Stranger

Chapter 10: Rick's Help

The sun was beginning its rise when Chris, Maria, and Ana stepped out of the diner, the flickering neon sign now casting long shadows on the cracked pavement. They had decided to search for transportation to get them closer to Austin. As they walked along the empty street, they kept their eyes peeled for any sign of a vehicle that could help them escape their current predicament.

It wasn't long before they spotted an old, battered car parked by the side of the road. The vehicle's paint was faded and chipped, and it had a flat tire and a cracked windshield. Leaning against the car was a scruffy, disheveled man who looked to be in his fifties, wearing tattered clothes and a forlorn expression.

Chris approached the man cautiously, trying to gauge his situation. "Hey there," he called out. "We're looking for a way to get to Austin. You wouldn't happen to know of anyone who could give us a ride, would you?"

The man's eyes brightened slightly at the prospect of earning some money. "I can give you a ride," he said, his voice gravelly. "But my car's not in the best shape. It's been acting up, and I need some cash for repairs. Maybe a little extra if you want me to get you there quickly."

Chris exchanged glances with Maria and Ana, their faces showing concern but also a hint of hope. They needed to get moving, and this was their best option. Chris nodded slowly. "Alright, we'll pay you. But we need to get to Austin as soon as possible."

The homeless man, whose name was Rick, managed to start his car with a series of sputters and coughs. The engine roared to life, though it sounded more like a dying animal than a functioning vehicle. The car lurched forward, moving at a crawl, but it was moving.

As they drove, the car rattled and groaned with every bump in the road. Rick was doing his best to keep it steady, but it was clear that the vehicle was barely holding together. The ride was bumpy and uncomfortable, and the old car seemed to strain with every turn.

Maria and Ana, despite their earlier determination, seemed increasingly anxious as the car struggled to maintain speed. Chris noticed their discomfort and tried to reassure them. "We're almost there. Just hang on."

As the hours passed and the car made slow progress, Rick pulled over at a deserted spot, claiming he needed to check the engine. While he tinkered with the car, Chris took the opportunity to speak with Maria and Ana.

"We're almost out of options," Chris said, trying to sound encouraging. "We have to get to Austin, and this is our only chance."

Maria and Ana nodded, but their eyes were filled with uncertainty. They understood the urgency of the situation but were clearly uneasy about the conditions they were facing.

Rick, after a few minutes of futile repairs, climbed back into the car and started it up again. "Alright, let's keep going," he said, though his voice held a note of desperation. "We'll get there eventually."

As they continued their journey, Rick's driving became increasingly erratic. The car jolted and swayed, and Chris could see the strain on Rick's face as he fought to keep it on the road.

Eventually, Rick pulled over again, this time in a small, run-down motel parking lot. "I need to rest for a bit," he said. "This old heap isn't going to make it much further without some serious work."

Chris, Maria, and Ana stepped out of the car, their legs sore from the long ride. The motel was a shabby place, but it provided a temporary refuge. Chris took Rick aside, away from Maria and Ana, and handed him a wad of cash.

"This is for the ride," Chris said. "And a little extra for your trouble. We appreciate the help."