“I hope so,” Drake says, mirroring my thoughts. “Because right now, the entire island thinks you’re a mass murderer. They think you killed Wren and Ethan. That you put Sally in the hospital, fighting for her life.”
Wren makes a soft noise beside me.
“There’s something else,” Drake continues. “They’re offering a reward. A substantial one. For information leading to your capture.”
Of course they are.
“How much?” I ask.
“Fifty thousand dollars. I have a feeling that it’s going to go up before long. They’re desperate to get their hands on you.”
Wren gasps. “That’s… That’s a lot of money.”
“It is,” Drake agrees. “Which means you need to be even more careful. People will be looking for you. Actively searching. The temptation will be too great for some to resist.”
I think of Falkor again. Of his kindness. His immediate belief in me. Would he turn us in for that kind of money?
No, he wouldn’t.
There is no doubt in my mind. But I worry about his safety.
“We’ll be careful,” I tell Drake.
He nods, then pulls out a small envelope from his jacket. “There’s some cash in here. Not much, but it should help if you need to buy supplies. Don’t use any cards. Don’t leave a digital trail.”
I take the envelope. “Thanks. I’ll pay you back.”
“Wren, you’re officially listed as deceased, but if they realize you’re alive and with Grim, they’ll claim you’re his accomplice. That you helped him, and that you’re dangerous.”
I have to resist the urge to put my arm around her. To roar at an enemy that isn’t here right now.
Fucking bastards!
I knew it.
Wren swallows hard. “I understand.”
“Be smart,” Drake says. “Stay hidden. Don’t do anything that draws attention. And keep an eye on that burner phone. I’ll let you know about checkpoints as soon as I hear. They should be announcing the schedule soon. Hopefully, before you make it back to town, if that’s where you’re headed.”
I slip the phone into my pocket. “We will be careful. Thank you for everything.”
Drake moves toward his SUV, then stops and turns back. “I won’t be able to help you if you’re caught.”
“I know,” I tell him. “I’m not asking you to stick your neck out for me any more than you already have. I’m grateful. You’re a good friend.”
“Just…be careful,” Drake says. “Both of you.” He glances at Wren.
“We will,” Wren says, her voice stronger now. “We’re going to get that cellphone back. We’re going to expose the truth. And we’re going to clear Grim’s name. We’ll take care of each other.”
Drake gives her a small smile. “I believe you will. You’re both stronger than you think.”
He climbs into his truck and starts the engine. We watch as he backs up, turns around, and drives away, dust kicking up behind his tires.
When the sound of his engine fades completely, I turn to Wren. She’s staring after him, her expression troubled.
“We need to get back,” I tell her, handing her the cellphone. “Keep an eye on that. We need to avoid those checkpoints.”
She nods.
