When he hit Barstow, Tommy stopped at a Starbucks for a caffeine hit and a chance to stretch his legs. He'd forgotten how amazing riding could be...but he also hadn't missed the sore ass, either. Still, it was good to be on the open road, and the coffee stop was a welcome respite.

He was just gathering his things to head out when his cell phone went off. Eager to get back on the road, and aware he'd told Jelly to forward any important calls to his cell if she needed him Friday afternoon, he didn't check his caller ID as he answered as generically as he could while walking out the door with his laptop bag slung over his shoulder and a coffee cup in hand.

"Good afternoon, Tommy Karras..."