Glancing all around, I throw the car into reverse and peel out, scanning for a motorcycle. But Snake wasn’t wearing his club colors, so maybe he’s in a truck or something. I don’t see a single bike as I turn onto the four-lane highway, almost cutting off a car who swerves out of the way and lays on their horn.
My eyes stay focused half on the road and half on my rearview, watching to see if a vehicle turns out of Sonny’s following me, but I don’t see one.
I make the first right and zig-zag through side streets until I come out a couple of miles away.
Finally, Cody returns my call.
“Hey, Heather. What’s up?”
“Where are you?” I ask in a no-nonsense tone, which he immediately picks up on.
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m going to the apartment and getting Tucker. Are you at the clubhouse?”
“Yeah, why?”
“Can I come there? Where is it?”
“There’s a gas station on the corner of Briarwood and First Ave. I’ll meet you there and lead you in. Are you okay?”
“I’ll explain when I see you.”
“This about your job?”
“No.”
“Do you want me to meet you at the apartment?”
“It’ll take too long. I don’t want to wait.”
“It’ll take no time if I haul ass across town, babe. You need me, I’m there.”
“No. I’ll be at the gas station in fifteen minutes.”
“If you’re late, I’m coming to you.”
“I’ll see you soon, and thanks.”
I disconnect before he replies and concentrate on driving. I go as fast over the speed limit as I think I can get away with. Then a thought hits me. Reaching for my phone again, I dial Marnie’s mom.
When she picks up, I start talking a mile a minute. “Don’t answer the door or let anyone in, understand? It’s not safe. I’ll explain when I get there. I should be there in about five minutes.”
“Honey, Marnie already called me. She said they’re stalling that man at the club with a free VIP room. Apparently, they told him you'd take the stage again soon. Are you okay?”
“I’m better now. I’ll be there soon; I’m turning down the street.”
“Stay on the line with me until you get inside,” she advises.
“Yes, that’s a good idea.” I wonder if Snake’s friend Greasy is with him. They could be working as a team. He could have him already watching my building. How did Snake find me? I was so careful.
I stay on the line until I’m on the elevator and lose the call. When I step off, the hallway is empty and, like I told her, Mrs. Harding hasn’t opened the door.
Keying the lock, I step inside and throw the bolt.
“Are you okay?” she asks.
“Yes, I’m fine.”
