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mind’s eye she saw her uncle’s face, and knew, without a doubt, that he pursued them.
“Rachael.”
The sound of her name propelled her feet forward but Bobby dragged on her arm, holding her back.
“Rachael.”
Wait, this was not Uncle Bills’ voice; this voice was higher … a boy’s voice. She swung around, almost lifting Bobby off the ground.
“Ronnie. Oh, you scared me.” Her legs felt too weak to hold her, and she teetered on her feet. Ronald, having reached them, took her arm to steady her.
“What are you doing here, Ronnie?” she gasped.
Ronald released her and stuck both hands into the pockets of his jeans. “Sorry I scared you. I’m goin’ with you.”
Rachael stared. “Whatdaya mean? You can’t go with us because we’re runnin’ away.”
“I know that, Rachael.” Ronnie rolled his eyes, and she expected him to say ‘Girls!’ But instead he looked at the ground and scuffed a booted foot in the snow. “I heard you come into the room to get Bobby, and I heard you say you’re going to find Uncle Corky. An’ I’m goin’ with you.”
“Why?” Rachael knew she shouldn’t question him. She would be happy to have his company, but she had to know if he was doing this just for them. Because he would be in serious trouble when he got home if he helped them escape.
His features set, Ronnie looked at her in the light that was beginning to brighten the sky. “Cause I ain’t ever goin’ back, that’s why. Not ever.”
Rachael stared at him, speechless, but then she remembered how Uncle Bill had beat him; she remembered the lump of coal in his Christmas box, and the way his dad always made fun of what he did. She asked no more questions. By unspoken consent they set off towards the heart of Emblem, intent on their destination – her daddy’s house.
They reached the main section of town. All the stores were dark …
Libros Libertad 