Chapter 5 - The Deal
|
Clara knew she couldn't run forever. She had no car, no resources, and two infants who needed a doctor. She pulled a burner phone from her pocket—a cheap device she used to call the hospital.
She dialed a number she had sworn never to call. Her estranged uncle, a man who ran a low-level smuggling ring near the border.
"Yeah?" a gruff voice answered.
"Uncle Ray," Clara said, keeping her voice low. "It's Clara."
Silence on the line. Then a heavy sigh. "You only call when you’re in trouble, kid."
"I need a place to stay. Off the grid. And I need supplies for two infants," she whispered, watching the diner door nervously.
"Infants? Clara, what the hell did you get yourself into? If this brings heat to my door..."
"It won't," she lied. "Please, Ray. Just for a few days until I can figure things out. I'll work off the debt. You know I'm good for it."
Ray grunted. "There's an old hunting cabin off Route 119. The key is under the loose floorboard on the porch. Don't bring the cops, Clara. I mean it."
May you like
The line went dead. Clara pocketed the phone and wrapped the boys securely. She left the fifty-dollar bill on the table and slipped out the back door of the diner.
She had to keep them hidden. She had to figure out a way to contact Damian directly, without Victoria or her guards intercepting the message. Because in the mafia, the wife was often more dangerous than the boss.
