I turn back to the window, my eyes peeled for a glimpse of the Dodge, my muscles primed to leap out of the car at the first sight of it. I’d imagined a bunch of different ways this place would feel—it’s not as shady as I’d expected, but there are way more people.
Amy clears her throat, her eyes locked on the road.
“Listen up, Conley. This is how it’s gonna go. Once we’re out there with the others, all you need to do is remember one simple rule—you don’t exist.” She glances at me. “You don’t speak. You don’t ask questions. You don’t go around looking for something. And whatever you do, you don’t stare. Nobody knows who you are—but theywillknow you’re with me. You stick to that vibe, everything will be fine. If anyone tries to talk to you, do your best to keep quiet. The less you say, the better our chances.”
She pauses. Then, because apparently all that wasn’t enough, adds, “And whatever I say, you just let me roll with it. You do not get involved—I mean it.”
I sigh. “Sounds intense. You want me to wear a bag over my head, too, or am I okay showing my face?”
“I considered it.”
I shoot her a look. “Why am I not sure you’re joking?”
She doesn’t reply.
Feels weird to be the passenger for once, but I have to admit—Amy’s a better driver than I ever gave her credit for. Somewhere along the way, I start to relax.
The streets fly by, the crowds thickening the deeper we go, the buzz intensifying.
When we finally stop, she twists to face me. “Don’t forget what I said, okay? If your car is here, Ineedto be able to count on you.” She pauses, studying me. “Can I count on you, Conley?”
I don’t love the way her question lands in my chest, but I recover fast.
“Yes, Your Honor. You can rely on me to be the perfect man-pet.”
“Amazing. Then let’s do this.”
My pulse starts to race. She tilts the rearview mirror toward her, pulls on a black beanie, and finger-combs her bangs, before dabbing on a little wine-red lipstick.
Why can’t I stop staring at her damn red lips?
“What’s the problem?”
“Nothing,” I say too quickly.
She frowns at me before sliding out of the car, and I take a deep breath in before stepping out behind her. I recognize this energy. It feels just like that split second before a game I know will be tough.
“So, w—”
“Hitman!”
I whip around. A mountain of a man is shoving his way through the crowd, zeroing in on Amy.
“Rolly!” She stretches out a fist. “Looking good, buddy.”
“Good to see you again! You’re way paler than when I last saw you. Doesn’t look like Ohio’s treating you too good.”
Rolly’s eyes slide over to me, and when he tosses me a “hey,” I put Amy’s wisdom into practice, grunting in response. I’m pretty sure I just saw her stifle a smirk.
“Rachel here?”
He shakes his head. “She stayed home. She’s about to pop any day now.”
“Oh my God, congrats!” Amy gasps. “I had no idea! Bet she’s pissed she can’t join us.”
“She’s a monster right now.” He raises his eyebrows at Amy. “You just here for kicks?”
She smiles. “I was in the area—thought I’d swing by. I need to hit the road, but hug Rachel for me, and good luck with it all. Babies are intense.”
