Xander's Chance

"No. You're the right one."

"Um, okay. I'll be happy to stay and chat," Jessi said with a deep breath. "Will you let my friend here leave?" Her instincts were clamoring. She glanced at Ashley, whose eyes were wide.

The three were silent, though the one she faced appeared to be considering. He nodded at last.

"Go to the car, Ashley," Jessi told her cousin.

Ashley looked ready to refuse, but Jessi pushed her with a stern glare. Ashley relented, fearful gaze on the three guys as she moved away. Jessi watched her cousin walk away then break into a run as she crossed the street and headed towards the bookstore.

"What's this about?" she asked, turning her attention to the three. Nervous energy fluttered through her. "Did Jonny send you?"

"He said to remind you that you were supposed to call him about a schedule today."

"Oh. Damn. Yeah, I forgot," she said. "I can tell him now." Shit! She hadn't figured out anything about Xander's schedule.

The three drew closer. She shifted, ready to run if she had the chance.

Their leader eyed a family of five walking across the aisle towards their car. He motioned for her to follow them. Dread sinking into her stomach, Jessi obeyed, the other thugs trailing her. He walked them down the mall a short distance. Her step slowed as she saw their destination: a poorly lit loading area around the corner from the Macy's. One of them pushed her to keep her from dragging her feet too much.

Jessi crossed her arms, sensing they wanted more than a date and time from her. No matter what happened to her, at least Ashley was safe. She hoped her cousin had the sense to go straight home.

The leader stopped and faced her, his buddies closing in behind her. Suddenly, Jessi wondered if she was going to make it home.