The engine rumbled loudly, making a churning sound that echoed the churning in Diane’s stomach. It has to go right this time, she thought, gripping the wheel tightly. It has to. The third time is the charm. But there were so many things that could go wrong. What if the car stalled? What if a security guard saw her parked at a loading dock? What if Reva didn’t show up for her stockroom duties? What if Danny lost it? What if something got him angry and he exploded? It wouldn’t be the first time, Diane thought with a shudder. She tried to force these questions from her mind, but they kept coming back. Think positive, she kept telling herself. But she was too nervous to think positive. Her hands were cold and clammy on the wheel. Her chin was quivering. Stay cool, Diane. Stay cool. She tried talking herself out of her fear. When she thought of Pres, sitting in the detention center downtown, her fear turned to anger. How could he do this to Danny and me? she asked herself, biting her lower lip until she tasted blood.
