Lizzie’s arm was warm against Emma’s, the Firebird’s interior cozy. Michelle’s driving had slowed a little after leaving the condo, and now she was slowing even more as she pulled off the familiar stretch of highway. Jesse’s phone call had startled Emma, but what he was asking Michelle, she had no idea. Only Michelle’s calm demeanor allayed her fears. If Michelle wasn’t scared, then she wouldn’t be either.
“Where are your things?” she asked Lizzie.
“At Andre’s house,” Lizzie muttered. “But I don’t need anything. I just…I just want to put all of that stuff behind me.”
“You know, Mom and Dad have been really worried.”
Lizzie took a deep breath. “I know. Emma, you have to believe me, I never meant to hurt them. But Andre…”
As Michelle turned the final corner to their destination, Emma me
