Chapter Nine

I can't fucking do this.

I had pulled into the state park parking lot at six forty-two. I caught almost every red light on my way out of town, of course. Ike had been standing outside, leaning against his big black SUV with his arms crossed, staring off into the forest with an annoyed expression on his face.

He hadn't even said anything when I got out of my car, just walked to the passenger side and opened the door for me. He's shot me a half smile when we made eye contact, but honestly, I didn't know him well enough yet to be able to read him. I couldn't even tell if it was a real smile or a forced one.

Now we were just sitting here, him driving silently. I sneaked a side glance at him. He didn't look mad... I guess. He just had a blank expression, staring at the road.

"So, uh... how are you doing?" I asked carefully. He didn't say anything for so long that I had begun to think he wasn't going to respond.

Finally, he sighs and says, "I'm sorry. I'm worried about pack stuff, I guess.