Page 72 of Avery's Hero

When the day is over, I make a quick meal in the station kitchen, and lock myself in the bunk room with a book.

Only, I can’t concentrate at all.

My head’s a mess with all the complications of this crazy situation.

I’m face down on the bed with my brain whirling when I hear a surprising sound. My phone ringing. No one calls me.

I turn ice-cold when I read the caller ID. “Law Offices of Smith and Sanders.”

Nervously, I answer.

A deep, familiar voice on the other end says, “Sis.”

Oh my god. I’ve been dying to hear from Gunnar, but since I didn’t have a landline, I didn’t think it was possible.

“Thank god. I’ve been hoping to hear from you. How are you calling my cell? I thought you had to call collect.” With tears in my throat, I pace across the room.

“My lawyer arranged it. They took the call and put me through to you.”

I’m weak with relief. This nightmare is finally coming to an end. “I was wondering how you’d reach me. I’m sorry I haven’t come on visitation days. I’ve had so much going on with the move. How are you?”

“About to be a lot better.”

My nerves leap into action. “It’s really happening…”

“Next Wednesday.”

I squeal. “Ahhhhmazing. I’m so happy.”

“Me too. Me fucking too. Can you pick me up?”

“Wouldn’t miss it. Any special requests for food?”

“Everything.”

I laugh. “Okay. I remember a few things that should fill that bottomless pit you’ve got. I’ll pack a big bag of snacks.”

For a few seconds, the line goes silent and I know he’s thinking about all the time he’s lost locked behind bars.

I quietly ask, “You sure you’re okay?”

“Just thinking about how long it’s been since I ate a real hamburger.”

“That will be our first stop.”

“I can’t buy,” he says, gruffly.

“Of course not. I’ve got you covered.”

He growls, and I know he’s incredibly frustrated to have to rely on his baby sister for his food and the place he willlive. “I’m not happy to be as poor as a high school student again.”

“It’s only temporary. Besides, I’ve been saving, so we’re all good.”

He sighs. “Thanks, pipsqueak. So, you started the new job?”

“I did. Just trying to get settled in. It’s fine.” I’d never tell him about the madness. There’s no reason for him to be worried.

But he says, “There’s something you’re not saying.”

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