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Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Carson kept his eyes on the road, nodding at Jane's comments. This was a dangerous stretch of road, and accidents weren't uncommon. But when she offered to buy him a meal he turned to face her. Um. Several things went through his head at once. He was really hungry, and any amount of money saved, however small, was a good thing. On the other hand, he'd be taking money from someone who didn't have a ride. And did he want to spend more time with her if she could be trouble? Maybe it was her smile that decided it. Or the particular shade of blue of her eyes. Maybe he was tired of eating meals alone on the road. He gave Jane a his own slight smile again, then turned his eyes back to the road. Okay, he said. Why not. There's the Campbell Diner off Main Street. I'll pick up the tip.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Immediately, Janes smile brightened. The relief that washed over her body was unbelievable and for the first time since her life went haywire, she actually felt somewhat normal. Normal. Her life could never be normal again. There was only one way to ensure that and she refused to stoop to such a level, not if she could help it. Doing so would only make her like him . And that was just unacceptable. Wonderful! Jane exclaimed, the eagerness in her voice fairly apparent. At that she winced, hoping that Carson didnt quite catch it, but knowing her luck, he did. No doubt that would mean hed refuse dessert too, anything to be rid of her so that he could get back on the road and away from any potential funny business. Curled up on the passenger side seat, Jane stared out her window. The black pavement just ran on by endlessly, but she knew her time with Carson was nearing its end. The corner of her eye caught a glimpse of the sign letting them know that theyd reached Red Mills. That meant that the diner wasnt far off. That meant shed be alone again soon. Jane didnt know what it was about Carson. The tone of his voice, the fact that hed been kind enough to pick her up and not try anything underhanded. But, for some reason she felt a bit safer with him around. It had to be his build, the way he carried himself. Maybe the fact that he was a trucker and thus a sort most people didnt mess with. Oh, she just didnt know, couldnt even begin to explain it. She was too terrified to fully think straight. Just then, she sneezed. Excuse me, Jane said softly, yet sheepishly. Shivering lightly for a moment, she looked down at her still soaked coat and backpack that were on the floor. Stupid me, eh? she laughed nervously. Ive gone and gotten myself a cold. Seeing the sign Main Street, Jane felt her teeth beginning to chatter. They were nearly there, nearly to the diner. Oh god, their time together was coming to a close fast. Faster than she expected. Taking a deep breath, she tried to calm herself down. If she let the fear overtake her, it would only drive Carson away faster. Yes, she needed to keep her cool, keep her mind working properly. Dessert. For now shed focus on that. Men loved pie, right? They couldnt resist a piece if it was set before them. It was enough of a plan as any. For now.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Carson spared her another look when she exclaimed, Wonderful! but didn't say anything. Maybe she just needed someone to talk to, also. He was now almost completely certain she wasn't high on something. At least there was that. He chuckled and said Bless you when she sneezed as they pulled into town. Now her teeth were chattering. This was no good. And Louie, who owned the Campbell diner, wouldn't like someone completely wet mucking up his floor. Carson let out a small sigh as he pulled into the far side of the diner parking lot, well clear of the other cars. Tell you what, he said as he opened the door. I'll get us a table. My rig's full in the back, but you can change out of your wet things here in the cab. Just stay below the windows. When you're done come find me in the diner. Okay? Carson slipped both his main key set and spare into his pocket, then clambered down and shut his door without waiting for a reply. He still didn't completely understand why he was doing this.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Jane nodded as Carson got out of his truck and headed toward the diner. She looked down at her rain soaked backpack and bit down on her lip. She wondered if anything inside was actually still dry. Not likely. Though, she supposed theyd be dryer than what she had on. So, heaving a sigh, she unzipped her backpack and began to search for something a little less wet. As Jane began pulling clothes out, she suddenly began to scowl in frustration. Damn it! she exclaimed. Nothing was really dry. The rain had soaked nearly everything she brought with her. Annoyed and more than embarrassed, Jane decided to pull out a t-shirt and cardigan. They were somewhat dry, but not really. But she figured they were her best option at the moment. Ugh! If only she had access to fully dry clothes! Peeling off her shirt and bra, she laid them on top of her coat. She then grabbed the towel shed used earlier on her hair and blotted it against her bare upper body. Chuckling, she didnt know why she was bothering. The t-shirt was still pretty damp. Shrugging, she twisted her body about until the thing was covering her up. She didnt even bother with her bra. It was soaked and she didnt have another one with her. Letting out a loud sigh, Jane then went to peel off her socks and jeans. It was tough getting the wet clothing off her body. The material was stubborn, wanting to stick to her skin like glue. Finally, shed gotten the articles of clothing off her body. Wincing, her eyes immediately were drawn to the dark bruises on her thighs. They were clearly in the shape of fingers, fingers that had somehow held her down. Gasping as morbid memories flooded her mind, she began blinking back the tears that desperately wanted to spill down her pale cheeks. Dont think about it, Jane. Its done, Jane said aloud to herself as she pulled off her wet panties. Pushing the memories aside, Jane pulled out a pair of cargo pants and slipped them on, commando-style. No use in putting on another wet pair of panties. The pants were already pretty damp as they were. Ugh, she felt terrible and she knew she looked it. But she didnt have much choice. Throwing on a new pair of socks and putting back on her sloshy sneakers, she grabbed her cardigan and flung it on over top her t-shirt. More or less ready to meet Carson inside the diner, she then snatched up her wallet that was full of cash, every last bit of money shed been saving over the course of her life. Opening the truck door, Jane got out of Carsons vehicle and closed the door behind herself. The rain was still coming down in torrents, so she ran to the diners entrance and went inside. As she stood there, knowing full well how frightful she mustve looked, she scanned the area for Carson. When her pale eyes found him, she gave him a smile and walked over so as to sit across from him at their table.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Carson nodded at the hostess, who smiled back. He was a regular here, since he made a Southerton or Miranda run at least twice a month. I got someone else coming, he said, and the hostess took him to a booth table that had a view of the street. It was late for lunch and still a bit early for dinner, so the place had only a few other diners. Jane looked better when she appeared. Still damp, but less ragged, and she did have that very nice smile. Carson actually grinned at her this time. And he stood for her, too. Carson wouldn't have called himself old-fashioned. It just seemed to feel right to stand up as she came up to the table. Maybe because she seemed in a rough spot. The trucker found himself wondering what to do as he faced her.... Sit over here, he said suddenly, indicating his spot and moving to the opposite side. They got the heat on behind me, it'll help warm you up. It was even true, he had sat down right underneath a vent. The menus were already on the table in front of them.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Jane walked over toward Carson and was somewhat surprised to see the man smiling. Hed seemed apprehensive at best back in the truck and now, the vibe she was receiving said that his tone was changing. Even if only a little bit. And though seeing him smile had taken her off guard, she was glad of it. Given everything shed been through the past few days, she needed a diversion, no matter how small. Besides, she liked the way his lips turned up as he did so. She blushed at that last thought, but it couldnt be helped. It was true. Carson stood up and offered his seat near the heating vent to Jane and she was more than grateful for that. Not only would it warm her up, but she hoped it might dry her off somewhat as well. Thanks, Jane said as she moved toward her seat. Sitting down, she crossed her legs and picked up one of the menus and began to browse it for something good to eat. As Jane skimmed the menu, she finally decided on what she wanted. She needed comfort food, something to make her feel a bit more at ease. And that would be a grilled cheese with a side of fries. Well, I know what I want, Jane said, her voice soft. She then set her menu down and looked into Carsons eyes. So, uh, she then began. Do you think youll stay the night here in Red Mills or continue on some toward Southerton? Swallowing, she added, That storm out there is pretty bad. I should know. She gave him a sheepish grin, which she hoped covered up the anxiety she was feeling inside, the fear of being left alone. Might be safer to wait it out. Jane wondered if she sounded desperate or worse. And she hoped Carson didnt find her to be a stalking freak as a result. She was hardly that, just seeking safety. Safety and company and, if lucky enough protection. Even if it was only temporary.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Carson picked a club sandwich and fries, and small cup of soup. I'm going on to Southerton, he said evenly. Before he could say more a waitress came to take their orders. Once she left Carson explained why. Costs more money the longer I'm on the road, he said. Might take a bit, but it's best to get the job done. He jerked his head in the direction of some nearby buildings. Buses'll probably keep running. May only get you to the next town tonight but they'll run. As he said this he felt a slight twinge of regret. Carson realized he was enjoying the company. You've been alone on the road too long, he told himself. Just then Louie came by the table. Hey Carson, the rake-thin, balding owner said, the Miranda bridge is out. Just came in on the news. Instinctively, Carson cursed and turned to the television over the high stool section. Louie was right. The trucker nodded his thanks and shook his head, then stared briefly at the table. He could struggle on to the next town, but that would only cover another ten miles, and he'd have to find another spot for the rig. He favored Jane with a wry smile. Truth be told, he didn't feel completely sorry about the money. Guess we're stuck here, he said. Good thing this place serves a good breakfast.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Jane gave Carson a weak smile as he told her hed continue on toward Southerton. She figured hed say something like that, it was why her mind had been racing to figure out silly ways to keep him around her longer, maybe even convince him to bring her further on his travels. When he mentioned the buses, all she could do was nod mindlessly. Sure, the buses might still be running, but her money situation. It was not good. There was no way shed be able to afford the fare, he had seen to that. And with the storm as bad as it was, not to mention the fact that it was getting later and later, the chance that someone would be able to give her a ride anywhere was slim to none. It would mean sleeping on the streets and hoping someone would take pity on her come morning. Just then a man who appeared to be the manager of the small diner approached the two of them. Jane noticed that he seemed to know Carson and that made her smile inwardly. Carson knew a lot of people being a trucker, had a lot of friends. People who could help. Again, her mind began to spin, trying to think of what to do to ensure her own safety, her own survival. As it was, she could see her goal shifting, becoming that of determining a way to stay with this trucker shed just met and who strangely seemed to make her feel safer. the Miranda bridge is out. Just came in on the news, the manager said. Carson turned to look at the television to confirm what the guy had said. It did. Just then, he turned to look at Jane. Guess were stuck here. Good thing this place serves a good breakfast. Jane felt her heart begin to pound beneath her breast. She had to think fast. Carson was now stuck in Red Mills too. Given that, she wondered if there was a way she could ensure staying with him just a bit longer. Though she didnt want to come off as creepy either. Oh god! She felt vile! She was going against her normal way of thinking entirely, but desperate situations called for desperate measures. Yeah, Jane said. Just as well. I dont think Id have left until morning anyway. She gave Carson a smile and took a bite of food. She felt sick inside at the partial lie, the lie of omission. But she had to do what she had to do. So, where are you going to stay for the night? she then asked. She wondered if he was going to stay in a motel or, as a lot of truckers seemed to do, sleep in his vehicle. Either way, she hoped hed let her stay with him. Thinking quickly, she then said, If youre going to sleep in your truck, you mind if I stay with? Itll save me some cash if I dont have to get a room. Swallowing and feeling more than terrible about herself, she added, I wont be any trouble. You wont even know Im there. Jane could feel her body shaking as she made herself somewhat vulnerable to Carson. Either hed see what he wanted to see or hed see through her entirely. It was a gamble, but something about him made her feel like she could trust him, so she decided the chance was worth it. Besides, it would mean safety during the night and maybe even a longer ride than shed originally anticipated.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

For just a few moments, he had forgotten she was a hitchhiker. Of course if she had money she wouldn't need a ride. And if she had money she could afford a motel. Something tugged at Carson deep inside, and his eyes met hers for just a second. There was a brief of spark of sympathy, and then his road wariness took over. The waitress brought his soup. Carson ignored it, his eyes focused steadily on hers. He leaned forward, his eyes searching her face. You need to level with me a bit here, Jane, he said softly. You running from the cops? Or running from someone? There was no judgment in his voice, just a gentle probing. But his expression made it clear he also needed some sort of answer. Carson didn't like making a play without some kind of read. Jane probably wasn't an addict. Probably wasn't a con artist. But he had to know what he might be up against. The road didn't forgive fools. His soup lay untouched as he held her gaze in his and waited for an answer.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Jane sat there silently across from Carson. The look in his eye, the expression on his face. From what she could tell he had a good soul at his core, that he sympathized her plight. She had to give him credit for that too since she didnt know if shed have been so trusting had their situations been reversed. He didnt know her at all, knew nothing about her. Yet for some reason, he chose to pull over and give her that ride. Honestly, Jane was thankful that it was Carson whod pulled over. She couldnt have gotten luckier and she knew it. In no way was she about to try and rationalize it differently either. Shed done a stupid thing resorting to hitchhiking, but she also knew that shed had no choice. She didnt have much left in the way of money, plus trying to stay off the radar was in her best interest if she wanted to see another day. Fuck! Jane thought to herself as her eyes fixed to Carsons. She really thought him to be a decent guy, hell a nice guy. After all, hed helped her when most wouldnt have and now, here she was, placing him in danger just by being seen with him. And to think that she planned on keeping him in danger for even longer so as to help ease her nerves all because he made her feel safe for some reason. Swearing at herself, she honestly felt like she didnt even know who she was any longer. Shed never been the selfish sort, nor had she been the sort to like and manipulate someone. Upset that she was resorting to such tactics, she felt her stomach suddenly get queasy. She was upset with herself. Sighing, Jane mumbled, Yeah, you deserve to know some things. Taking a deep, shaky breath, she stared at her hands, which had begun to fidget with her napkin all of a sudden. Im not running from cops. I havent done anything wrong. I her voice trailed as she heard her tone breaking. I uh but yes. Im running. Looking up into his eyes, her own pleaded with his. She could feel them getting wet with unshed tears, but that only added to her frustration. Damn it! she scolded herself as she wiped at them angrily. Im just scared. Shit. She paused again. Look, Im sorry. I shouldnt be bothering you, Carson. Youre a good guy for having helped me out. I really appreciate it. Just then, Jane pulled out some cash, the money she owed since shed promised to pay for both their meals. This should cover our tab, Jane said. Her body shaking, her teeth chattering, she added, Hopefully well run into each other again one of these days. She tried to force a smile, but it was hard. She knew Carson wasnt stupid that hed know she was in some sort of trouble. A part of her hoped hed stop her, help her further. But another part worried for him if he did, worried for what sort of needless danger it would be placing him in. Danger that would be all her fault. At that, images of what her ex had done flooded Janes mind. Her screams. Her begging for his mercy. Damn him!
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Carson took it all in, his eyes widening. Her explanation, her shaking, her teeth chattering, her tears. Damn, she was in bad shape. If she wasn't an addict, and she wasn't a con artist, she was likely getting beat up by someone. Never good news. Without thinking, Carson shot his hands out to gently but firmly grasp hers. Hey, hey, he said softly, his eyes still focused on hers. It's okay. He pressed her palms against the table, in an effort to both warm and calm her. It's okay, he repeated. Carson smiled and jerked a chin at the money. I'm gonna to want coffee after my meal, he said. And I still have to pick up the tip. So let's slow down. He relinquished his hold as the waitress came by with their food. Get something in you, he urged as he took a quick bite of his sandwich. He watched as he chewed, then quickly made up his mind. He wouldn't be able to explain why afterward. But he couldn't do nothing for her and still be at peace with himself. You can spend the night in my cab. It'll be a little cramped, but we'll manage.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

Jane felt her entire body go still the moment Carson reached out and took her hand in his own. It was both a gesture of kindness and trust and the contact of his skin against her own made her instantly feel warmth, feel safe. He told her things would be all right. And she found herself strangely believing him. The tone of his voice, the look in his eyes, something was there that placed her at ease. And she was grateful for it. Carson urged Jane to eat her food and then said, You can spend the night in my cab. Itll be a little cramped, but well manage. Oh this man was too good to her. Jane gave Carson a smile. She could feel the tears welling up in her eyes once more, tears of relief and gratitude. She hoped he understood the dangers she was placing him in and that he didnt judge her as a result of it. The thought of it was revolting enough to her that she didnt need to feel any worse. Yes, he truly was a good man. Thanks, Jane mumbled before biting down on her lip. Youve no idea how much help that will be for me. Swallowing, she looked into Carsons eyes. Her face expressive, revealing the onslaught of emotions that were coursing through her body at that very moment. I owe you my life, she added on a whisper. My life. Somewhat relieved, Jane nibbled on her food. She didnt talk much for fear that Carson would somehow change his mind and leave her to fend for herself for the night. But, when she finished, she reached into her pocket to retrieve the cash needed to pay for their meals. I promise not to bother you tonight. You wont even know Im there, Jane said, hoping that her words reassured Carson that his decision was an all right one. Jane decided that shed leave quietly in the morning, though she had no idea where to go. But shed placed this wonderful man in danger long enough. Who knew how close behind he was? Who knew if he already knew that Carson was helping her? She knew it was only a matter of time before troubles would follow. And this kind man probably had a girlfriend back home that loved him. Being the one to end such a relationship due to her own selfishness didnt set well. The woman who had him was a lucky one and she didnt want to be the person who destroyed something she was sure was beautiful. And Carson? Jane added, her voice trailing a little. Thanks for all your help.
Thread: The Hitchhiker (terken & darkangel76)

When Jane said she owed him her life, Carson felt a surge of conflicting emotions. On the one hand, he wanted to puff out his chest in pride. On the other, there was that road wary tingle on the back of his neck. Who the heck was this guy? He put it out of his mind for now. Do the Robin Hood thing and go one step at a time. He chuckled when she said she wouldn't bother him. His sleeping cab was comfortable enough, but it was a cab, not a motel room. One of them would be on the mattress, the other on the floor in a sleeping bag. Unless of course...but that thought died quick, too. He was past those days, wasn't he? And he was helping her escape a guy, not go from one guy to the next. It'll be cramped, he repeated. But it's warm, and I keep the bathroom clean. He ate for a bit while the silence grew between them. To Carson, it didn't feel uncomfortable, despite the danger he might be facing. He looked up again and touched her with his eyes. You're welcome, he said, nodding. Then he gave her that slight grin. Anyway, you're getting me coffee, too. He signaled the waitress for a cup while the rain kept pouring outside.