Doctor Chopper by Steven Donnini

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Dr.Chopper
A full throttle ride to Mexico.
By Steven Donnini

Copyright 2009 Steven Donnini Austin, Texas Orlando, Florida

[email protected]

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Sit back I want to tell you a mostly true story of Doc, Billy and Moldy. It’s mostly true, because some of the people don’t want their real names mentioned for fear of legal action or for health reasons. Here, as in real life, not everyone gets

what they what, but some die trying. Doc’s Motorcycles shop is located on NE 2nd Ave. in Little River, an inner-city neighborhood of Miami, Florida. Doc Watson opened the shop in 1979 and has never moved from Little River, even though this urban neighborhood has gone progressively downhill. Doc is one of the greatest

motorcycle designers in America and has a following of celebrities and corporate executives. He doesn’t look like

a businessman, but he’s been able to keep the shop open for more than 20 years. He went to medical school at the Univ. There was a

of Miami, but dropped out after the 3rd year.

part time job at Jackson Memorial Hospital in the emergency room where he got the nickname Doc. After 2 years, of

dealing with the consequences of shootings, drug overdoses, vehicular accidents and stabbings, being a doctor had lost its appeal. On his last shift Oct. 14th 1977 at 5:00am,

covered with blood and other body fluids, he looked around

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and said, “I haven’t slept in 2 years, I think it’s time to give it a rest.” So, he became a custom motorcycle surgeon.

Billy Stiles, 22, is the assembler/builder of the custom bikes created at Doc’s Custom Shop and has been with Doc since he was 15 years old. As a youngster, he loved to

take his bicycle apart, change the handlebars, chop the frame and replace tires. He had problems in school,

because he was not interested in the class subjects, with the exception of shop where he would reinvent bikes, scooters and skate-boards to make them go faster. His

favorite past time was to race down the Orange Bowl Stadium corkscrew pedestrian ramps at breakneck speed. His dream He is

is to become a professional MOTO motorcycle racer. secretly engaged to marry Doc’s daughter Jeanette. Moldy is the grumpy old biker.

No one has the guts to ask

how old he is, nor wants to tests his degree of irritability. He has a national reputation as the best

fabricator in the custom business and specializes in one of a kind chopper motorcycles. He looks like his name, thin,

tall, long gray braided hair, worn out leather vest, black T shirt with Doc’s logo on the front, black steel toed boots and blue Levis that need the holes stitched. Moldy

moved to Miami from New York in the late 70’s to be close to his widowed mother, who lived on South Beach. His real

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name is Harvey Greenberg.

He got the nickname in Viet Nam After 10 days in the Viet

after two tours of duty there.

Nam Delta, the heat, rain and numerous insect bites, he stopped bathing regularly, tossed the Army issued polyester uniform, bought shorts, T shirts and sneakers. He changed his eating habits to Vietnamese food only. On leave back

home, he got a 12 gage pump shotgun and a Yankee’s baseball cap. When he returned to Viet Nam, He told his sergeant

that the M16 was useless in the jungle and the clothes made him sweat, the boots gave him foot rot and he believed if he ate Army issued food, “The Viet Cong can smell you coming.” Unlike most, he liked being in the Nam. He

explains for all who ask, “The Nam?

Where else can a young

man get a new M16 free, deluxe hookers for $5, knock out weed, all the free beer you can drink and a license to kill? else.” He scoffs at the guys that say they didn’t like it there. To Moldy it was heaven, almost as much fun as taking his vintage chopper “Justice” for across country ride to Mexico. There’s a photo of Moldy and Justice at Nuevo After two tours I wasn’t much good for anything

Laredo pinned up on the shop wall.

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Doc’s custom motorcycle shop is covered with old and new posters of women dressed in T backs, mounting motorcycles. Billy and Moldy are prepping a finished custom chopper that is about to meet its new owner. license plates. Billy, “You know this bike is mine, and I really don’t want to let it go.” Moldy, “You say the same thing every time we make a delivery.” Billy, “Yeah, but this time I really mean it.” Doc, “You get too attached. It’s just like with women. Billy is attaching the

You rub them and let them tell you what you want to hear and that’s the end of you.” Billy, “I don’t have just one woman.” Doc, “I haven’t seen even one yet.” Moldy, “Take my advice kid, lick them and leave them.” Billy, “From what I’ve seen, I don’t think your advice about women has got a lot of juice.” Doc, “Maybe, it’s time for a Moldy make over.” Moldy, “I clean up where it counts. He wags his tongue like Mick Jagger. Doc spots a customer coming in to pick up his bike, “Here’s the customer, try to act civilized, he’s got his girlfriend with him.” So they tell me.”

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Moldy, “Check out the legs and high heels.” Billy, “It’s a little early in the day for a cocktail dress.” Moldy cleaning the motorcycle seat, “I can’t wait to see her try to mount this thing.” Doc, “Shut up.” That afternoon in South Miami, Doc’s 18 year old, daughter Jeanette is on her way to her part time job at Dadeland Mall. She is driving along the Dixie Highway and stops at Jeanette is a gorgeous half-breed

a traffic light.

Cherokee girl, independent, naive and full of opinions. A car pulls up beside her customized Honda Civic Tuner. She looks over at the two young thugs in a custom 1967 Chevy convertible. They noticed her right away. When the

light changes they followed her 2 miles into the parking lot behind the store where she works. She notices them, frightened she locks her car doors and walks in the back door of the store, shuts and locks it behind her. The two guys Carlton and Vidajet drive around to the mall entrance. It’s 4th of July weekend and the mall is crowded Carlton and Vidajet are

with teens and other shoppers.

predators of the human kind, thin, strong and mean. They have been considered dropouts and throwaways since they were 13. Their police rap sheets are long and laced

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with gang violence, drug dealing, assault and car theft. But, they have managed to skate away from doing any prison time. At 20 years old, they are hardcore criminals, mostly

car theft, armed robbery, and anything for a quick buck or a little fun like sexual assault. Other gang members stay

away from them, because they are sloppy and compulsive, preferring to do what is easy without any real plan, dangerous. Jeanette finishes her shift at 11:00PM. A co-

worker Mike walks her through the darkened parking lot to her car. As she is driving away, Carlton and Vidajet Driving out of the

follow her with their lights out.

parking lot she picks up her cell phone and calls her Mom Carlita at home. Jeanette, “Hi Mom, I’m going out with

Sarah to Shakes, I’ll be home in an hour or two, don’t worry there’s no school tomorrow.” In fact, she is secretly on her way to meet Billy. Doc doesn’t want Jeanette to get involved with anyone in the cycle business, especially anyone without a good job and an education. So, they see each other on the sly. She

knows that Doc would fire Billy if he knew about them. She is totally unaware of Carlton and Vidajet following her as she is speaking on the phone. Shakes, is a small drive-

in restaurant in South Miami where the young bikers show off their motorcycles. It’s a destination for young men

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with powerful 1000cc Japanese motorcycles Honda, Suzuki and Kawasaki. Billy rides a new Honda CBR 1000 RR. He is

leaning on his Honda as he talks with friends while he waits for Jeanette. Billy says to rider, “Today I we delivered a custom knuckle head to this guy that is the President of an insurance company.” Biker, “Hey, did you ask for a break on the coverage on your CBR?” Billy, “That guy was so wound up you couldn’t get him to talk about anything but his new $40,000 chopper.” Biker, “Where’s Jeanette?” Billy, “She’s on her way.” Biker, “What a babe. Billy, “You wish. Does she have a sister?”

Doc gets pissed when she comes into the

shop, so we have to act like we aren’t interested in each other.” Biker, “Yeah, my girlfriend won’t let me around her family either. It’s better that way. At least you don’t have to Right?”

explain anything.

Like what your intentions are.

Jeanette rolls into Shakes parking lot and spots Billy and friends. to Billy. Jeanette. Carlton and Vidajet follow her as she parks next Carlton backs into a spot so they can watch Carlton is an “East Texas Redneck ” with a meth

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amphetamine addiction that keeps him up for days.

He

lights a joint to mellow out and hands it to Vidajet. Carlton, “Let’s have some fun with these two love birds.” Vidajet nods his approval. But he knows that he’s going to He’s from

do the dirty work when he hangs with Carlton.

Haiti where you do whatever it takes to survive and don’t ask for any special treatment. Vidajet, “We need earn tonight, man.” Carlton, “Yeah, business before pleasure.” Carlton’s eyes scan the parking lot for cars to snatch. He

settles on a new Honda Civic “Tuner”, it’s perfect with the windows down and the owner out walking around talking with friends. Carlton, “There’s a snatch. the switch. I’ll bet he’s left the keys in

I’ll do the blocking if anyone gets brave.” He walks

Vidajet takes a toke off the joint and gets out.

to the driver’s side where the owner won’t see what is happening until it’s too late. He peeks inside and spots Then he opens the door,

the keys hanging in the ignition.

slips behind the wheel and turns the key. The Honda “Tuner” is as powerful as they come with all the up grades. Vidajet races out of the parking lot with front The owner

wheels smoking and disappears into the night.

and friends get in a hot Mazda “Tuner” to take chase.

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But Carlton pulls out in front of them and stalls his car. Billy and Jeanette watch the action. Jeanette, “I saw those guys following me to work today.” Billy walks over to the stalled Chevy. The owner and

friends get out and start to push the convertible out of their way. Billy shouts, “Those two guys were together.” The owner walks around to meet Carlton sitting in the convertible. He starts the car and begins to pull away.

The Honda owner grabs his shirt trying to pull him from the car. owner. Carlton lifts his 9mm and fires a few rounds into the He falls backward to the pavement as Carlton drives Later in a chop shop in Liberty City,

off after Vidajet.

Carlton and Vidajet help take the Honda apart. Charlton cuts his hand removing a head light, “Man, I hate this shit. Fuck this I’m out of here.”

Vidajet drops a fender on the floor. “Let’s get some juice and tunes at Olivia’s.” Carlton says, “I don’t like that Haitian Country Music crap or the women, they smell funny.” Vidajet, “You don’t know of the finer things in life until you see a Haitian woman eat a mango while dancing to Haitian music.” Carlton, “You people are animals, man.”

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Olivia’s is a nightclub in Little Haiti, where the music is loud and the beer is cheap. if you’re looking for action. It’s a great place to hangout Carlton and Vidajet walk in

the back door of Olivia’s and make their way into the packed bar. Carlton points to an empty table in the back Vidajet stays at the bar

and takes a drink with him. talking to a woman.

The front door opens, two Miami cops walk slowly all the way through the steamy bar to the back door. Officer Al

Papa unlocks his service pistol, points it at the ceiling and fires 4 rounds into the plaster. Most of the patrons hit the floor. Two make a run for the door into the

waiting arms of Police waiting on the sidewalk. Papa says, “Thank you all for the hospitality. Have a nice night.” He puts his revolver away and walks out. The music

comes up as the people stand up and commiserate. Vidajet walks over to Carlton. “Those guys never stop that shit, I thought they were after us.” Carlton, “This place is too hot. Every cop in Miami thinks they’re on the SWAT team for Homeland Security. They all

want to get some practice kicking the shit out of someone. Let’s head out for Mexico until things blow over.” Vidajet, “What we gonna use for cash?”

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Carlton, “I have some deliverables and receivables. said, we need to bring a sweet asset.”

Carlos

It’s 4th of July, the Dadeland Mall is full of shoppers waiting in the cash register line in American Eagle for Jeanette to check them out. The mall is closing early and

everybody is in a last minute rush. Carlton and Vidajet cruise past the store window stalking Jeanette. She is the last employee to leave the store.

When Jeanette opens the back door of the store she is surprised by the two thugs. Carlton grabs her by the hair Vidajet

from behind holding one hand over her mouth.

grabs her legs and lifts her into the open trunk of the Chevy convertible. She kicks him in the mouth and nose. They quickly duck tape her mouth,

His nose gushes blood.

hands and feet. Carlton drives away slowly. He looks at Vidajet, “This one will fetch huge coins in Guatemala.” Vidajet, “How we going to keep her in the trunk all that way?” Carlton hands him a bag of black tar heroin and syringe. “This will keep her quite and eager to please if we need it. We should cross over into Mexico in 48 hours. I’ve

got $5,000 stashed and lots of crank.”

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They drive out into the night through the Everglades going west on the Tamiami Trail. It’s 9:00PM, and everyone is over Doc’s house to celebrate the 4th with hot dogs, beer and fireworks. Carlita is very

worried about Jeanette, because she always calls when she leaves work. She has called the cell phone several times

without any luck. When she tells Doc what is happening, he approaches Billy, “Take a ride to the mall and check on her.” Billy hops on his Honda, “I’ll call you when I find her.” He smokes the rear wheel down the street toward the Dixie Highway. Doc comforts Carlita, “You know she forgets to charge her cell phone battery. Billy will find her, don’t worry.”

The Tamiami Trail is dark and quiet with few cars passing Carlton and Vidajet as they play rap music and take crank to keep awake and get high. nose. Jeanette is trying to get her hands free from the tape so she can get her cell phone from inside her jacket. Finally, she gets free and turns on the cell phone. She puts it to her lips and says, “Home.” It rings twice before Carlita answers. Vidajet is nursing his broken

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She says, “Mom don’t say anything just listen. I’ve been taken by two guys, they threw me in the trunk of an old Chevy convertible and I don’t know where I’m at or where I’m going, and I need help, fast.” The cell cuts out and a

recording says, “You are outside the calling radius of your plan. Call 800-633-3000 AT&T cellular operator for long

distance service.” Carlita screams to Doc, “My baby has been taken by some guys.” Doc asks what she said. “Give me the phone we need to talk to the cops.” He dials 911 and waits for an operator. Operator, “This is a police operator. emergency?” Doc, “Yes, my 18 year old, has been snatched by some guys. they’ve thrown her into the trunk, and I don’t know where she is or where they are now.” Operator, “How do you know this?” Doc, “She called on her cell and talked to her mother.” Operator, “Is she OK?” Doc, “I don’t know the cell went off. That’s all we know.” Operator, “Sir many young girls want to get attention from boy friends and parents and do crazy things like this. Is there an

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I suggest you wait until tomorrow morning and call back if she doesn’t show up. report. In the mean time I’ll file this

We have to wait 48 hours before we can do

anything.” Doc, “But, can’t I file a missing person report now?” Operator, “You have to wait 48 hours. If she was under 18,

she would be considered a juvenile and we could file an Amber Alert. But, for now that’s all we can do. Chances

are she will show up, sir.” dining table.

Doc drops the phone on the

Doc, “I guess we’ll just have to go after her ourselves.” Carlita is not happy with that answer. She grabs her purse

and goes for the door, “I’m not sitting here while my baby is in the hands of some no goods.” Doc stops her at the door, “You need to stay here by the phone. I’ll get out there and find her.”

He calls Billy on his cell and asks what he has seen. Doc, “I’ll meet you at the Mall.” Moldy is standing by and says, “I’m with you.” They climb on to their motorcycles and head out to meet Billy. In the trunk of the convertible, Jeanette turns off Billy is at the back door of the He

the cell and hides it. mall store.

He looks inside Jeanette’s locked car.

looks around for anything that will tell him what happened.

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He points his headlight across the ground and sees a key on the ground next to the door. He picks it up and tries it in the door. The key fits, the door was never locked and the He yells for Jeanette inside the

alarm system is off. darkened store.

Suddenly, from behind the open door

appears a mall security cop. Cop, “Put your hands in the air and walk backwards toward me slowly.” Billy, “I’m not a burglar. I’m here to see what has happened to my girlfriend, Jeanette. She’s an employee

here and she didn’t show up at home after work.” Cop, “These kids that work here are always forgetting to lock up before they leave. put your hands on the car.” Billy, “You don’t understand she’s very responsible. would never forget to lock-up. She Just come outside the door and

Look here’s the door key I

found on the ground by the door.” Cop, “She could have left it there for you. an inside job. I have to hold you.” Doc gets off his bike and walks This could be

Doc and Moldy drive up. toward the Cop.

Doc, “What the hell are you doing?” Cop, “Just stand back.”

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Doc, “OK don’t panic. works here.”

We are here to check on my girl, she

Cops, “So this guy says.” Doc, “She called a few minutes ago and has been snatched by some guys. anything.” Cop, “Look buddy, all I know so far is that this kid was inside the store. for his girlfriend. view. He gives me a story that he’s looking It doesn’t look good from my point of We came here to see if anyone has seen

I’ll have to call it in.” Just great! Lets get

Doc looks at Billy, “Girlfriend? some help here.”

The Cop calls the Miami Dade Police to join him.

Within

minutes the cops are all over the scene looking for clues and taking fingerprints from the door and Jeanette’s car. Doc is talking to a Dade Cop. Doc, “I think Jeanette was surprised when she opened the door and dropped the key on the ground where Billy found it.” Dade Cop, “We have to take a statement from everyone before we can do anything since the girl is not here and there is no sign of forced entry or of a struggle.” Doc, “What should I do about my Jeanette?”

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Dade Cop, “Look if I was you I’d look every place she hangs out and call all of her friends. We’ll process the prints Here’s my She could

and run them for a match with known criminals. card call me in the morning if she doesn’t show.

have had some friends come by to get her and dropped the key and forgot to lock-it. ticket for trespassing.” Doc, “He’s not the boyfriend.” Dade Cop, “Whatever.” Billy folds the citation and puts it in his pocket. Doc looks at him, “We need to talk.” Billy, “Jeanette and I are very good friends. think you would approve so we didn’t tell you.” Doc, “You got that right.” Billy, “All I want to do now is help find her. You can fire me, kill me or toss me in Biscayne Bay later.” Doc, “Do you know anything? Billy, “We met at Shakes last night at 11:00. These two We didn’t I need to give the boyfriend a

guys snatched a Honda right in the drive inn parking lot. She said that the same guys were following her at the mall yesterday.” Doc, “Why didn’t you tell me?” Billy, “We didn’t want you to get mad.” Doc, “Well, Hell yes I’m pissed, go on.”

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Billy, “They were in a 67 Chevy convertible.

One got out The

and walked over to a Honda Civic, got in and took off. other guy pulled out into the center of the driveway and stalled, blocking the driveway so we couldn’t chase him. Jeanette told me she remembered him and the car from the earlier that day.” Doc, “I’ll bet those are the ones that snatched her.” Moldy, “I’ve got a girlfriend at Miami Dade Police, I’ll ask her to get the finger prints back pronto.” Doc, “Get it on.” Billy, “I have an idea. charged battery. Jeanette’s cell must have a

But if she’s outside the local calling She doesn’t have that.

range she would need LD service.

So, let’s fix her up and call her.” Doc, “Its worth a try.” Billy, “Call the phone company and see if they can help locate her phone when she uses it.” Later Carlton opens the trunk to check on Jeanette. looks up at him. He removes the tape from her mouth. She

Jeanette, “I need to go to the bathroom.” Carlton, “Well, OK. you to use.” There’s a whole swamp out there for

She lifts her head out the back to see

nothing but a swamp with gators and water moccasins.

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Carlton, “Come on out it’s all yours.

Just watch out for

the snakes.” He removes the rest of her tape. Jeanette, “Where are we?” Vidajet, “You don’t need to know.” Jeanette, “What are you going to do to me?” Carlton, “We need some get out of town insurance.” Jeanette, “Why me?” Vitajet, “Don’t worry, you’re worth more alive than dead. But I’m not opposed to breaking your nose.” Jeanette, “I’m hungry too.” Carlton, “If you behave, I’ll get you a bite. and I’ll have to put you out.” He shows her the syringe and heroin. Jeanette, “OK, I’ll be good, I don’t use drugs. use that.” At Doc’s house everyone is calling to ask what has happened to Jeanette. Doc, “We need to keep the phone lines open so we can catch Jeanette if she calls again.” Carlita, “Just use your cell phones. The phone company Just don’t Try anything

said, they’ll cooperate and call us when she turns on her phone.” Doc, “So we’ll know where she is?”

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Carlita, “The best they can do is call us about what cell zone she is in.” Billy, “I think they’re headed out of Florida to escape that murder charge.” Doc, “You’re saying, she could be a hostage?” Billy, “Yep.” Doc, “I think we better get a break on where she is, but quick.” Later, Moldy got a call from his friend at Miami Dade Police. The fingerprints have come back with positive ID They

on two felons, Carlton Adams and Franco Vidajet. emailed Doc the last known address on both men.

Moldy reads the email, “Doc lets hit the road to this address.” Doc, “Never go to a gun fight underpowered.” 357 from the hall closet. He pulls his

Moldy takes his snake charmer,

his double barreled shot gun, from a duffle bag and carries it outside. They climb on their choppers and head out to It’s been 4 hours since they heard

the last known address. from Jeanette.

Billy lays out a map and draws a circle

from Miami out 300, 400 and 500 miles. Doc and Moldy arrive at the last known address of Carlton. It’s a 1925, wood frame house covered with lush palms a

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scrubs and needs of a paint job. door.

Moldy walks to the front

He taps on the door and an old man answers. “What do you want young feller?” Moldy, “I’m looking for Carlton.” Old man, “That little crack head took off for Mexico last night with that Vidajet fella. the bathroom window.” Doc joins in, “Did they have a young girl with them?” Old man, “I didn’t see anyone else, but if you find them tell them I’m gonna kick their asses for breaking the place up and back rent.” Doc, “What kind of car were they in?” Old man, “That funny looking red Chevy convertible.” Moldy, “About what time did they leave here?” Old Man, “I guess it was about Midnight. thought I was sleeping. here late. fiends.” Doc, “Thanks for the info.” They return to Doc’s house to find Billy measuring the map and calculating drive time from Miami outward. into the dinning room to join Billy. Doc asks, “What happened.” Doc walks They must have I could hear them through

They’re always sneaking around Just a couple of dope

They think I’m stupid.

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Doc, “They took off for Mexico from their house last night about midnight.” Billy, “So, let’s see that would put them in Tallahassee right about now.” Doc, “Have you heard anything more from the cell phone people?” Billy, “Yup, she has long distance service now, so we can call her.” Doc, “Can we do that now?” Billy, “I think so, because she must have it in her pocket. She always keeps it close to her body and sets it to vibrate. She couldn’t use it in the store. But, she

doesn’t like to miss anything, you know.” Doc, “There’s a lot I don’t know.” Moldy, “We can cut them off at New Orleans.” Billy, “Yeah, they’ll have to pass through on I-10 headed west. It’s the only route.” He has a custom

Doc, “Gene Street owes me a big favor. shop there.”

Billy, “I think we should call the cell first.” Doc, “OK.” Billy dials her cell number. Jeanette is riding in the trunk of the convertible. cell starts vibrating. She answers it. “Who’s this?” The

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Billy, “It’s me.

Do you know where you are now?”

She answers, “I can’t tell. But they keep talking about going to Mexico. I’m really afraid of these guys. I don’t

know what they’re going to do.” Doc takes the phone, “Are you OK?” She answers, “Yes, Daddy, but one guy has a busted nose. They threw me in the trunk of an old Chevy convertible.” Doc, “Don’t talk anymore the battery won’t last very much longer. We’re coming for you. Don’t worry. I love you.”

Doc pushes the end button and drops the phone to the table, head down, Carlita walks in the room. He looks at her crying, “We are going to get her. Just

stay by the phone and I’ll call you when we get to New Orleans.” Carlton and Vidajet are riding in a rainstorm. The down

pour is so intense, that Carlton has to stop under an over pass on I-10, 20 miles from Mobile. storm. Vidajet, “I need to go to confession.” Carlton, “Confession? You must be kidding. That will take They wait out the

two days with all the shit you’ve done.” Vidajet, “I can’t explain it. But, I think when this girl broke my nose, and I started thinking about all the bad shit I’ve done.”

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Carlton, “That’s a bunch of crap. confess to.”

There’s no God to

Vidajet, “You don’t confess to God, you do it to a priest. We always went to confession at the Lady of Fatima in Haiti.” Carlton. “I’m telling you your nuts.” Vidajet, “I always felt better after confession.” Carlton, “OK, what are you confessing to.” Vidajet, “My part in killing that guy in the drive-in, the girl that jumped into the Miami River and hitting that old man in the face, shit like that.” Carlton, “You didn’t shoot the guy, I did.” Vidajet, “I know, but that doesn’t matter, I was the cause. I stole the car. I caused you to kill him.”

Carlton, “If there’s a God, then he has been pissed at me for a long time.” Vidajet, “See there, you need to speak to a priest. off your shoulders.” Carlton, “I just want to get us to Mexico.” Vidajet, “What about the girl? We’re in deep shit.” Get it

Carlton, “We’re just borrowing her for a couple of days.” Vidajet, “Promise me you won’t hurt her.” Carlton, “Shut the fuck up. We need her.”

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Jeanette listens to the conversation. She turns on the cell phone and calls home. But, because they are underneath the She pushes the end

bridge the transmission is weak. button.

Carlton hears the beep of the end button and gets He opens the trunk to see her trying to

out of the car.

hide the cell phone. Carlton, “Very cute. Give me that.” He grabs the phone

throws it to the road and an 18 wheeler runs it over. Carlton, “I need to keep a better eye on you.” He lifts

her out of the trunk and walks her to the open car door. He pushes her into the back seat. Vidajet, “You better watch out, she’s got a kick.” Carlton uses duck tape to bind her hands behind her back. “There, no more bull shit. calling.” He pulls the duck tape back from her mouth. Jeanette, “I was calling my Mother.” Carlton, “So, what did she have to say?” Jeanette, “The phone didn’t work.” Carlton, “We’re going to stop for breakfast and gas. don’t try anything or I’ll revoke your privileges.” Jeanette, “It’s a privilege to be kidnapped by a couple of losers!” Vidajet, “I’m no loser, you are.” So, Lets, find out who she was

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Jeanette, “Your still a loser.” Vidajet covers her mouth with a fresh strip of duck tape. Carlton, “Let’s just do her right here and be done with it.” He lifts his gun from the seat and turns around. Patrol car stops under the over pass behind them. Vidajet, “Oh shit, he’s going to bust us.” Carlton, “Shut up he’s just checking us out. here, waiting out the storm.” The cop runs the tags through Florida registration. A few He just sits A Highway

seconds later, the tags and registration are posted OK. There’s no need to look any farther. Everything looks all But, A

right, plus he doesn’t want to get out in the rain. he has second thoughts and opens the patrol car door.

Black Benz passes through the underpass at 85+ miles an hour. He shuts the door and goes out after the speeder.

Carlton, “Jesus, that cop had my trigger finger twitching.” Vidajet, “That’s why I don’t carry a piece. her go, and drop the whole Mexico trip.” Carlton, “I’m in deep and so are you. us on death row for this.” Vidajet, “Not me. I didn’t kill anyone.” They’re going to put Let’s just let

Carlton, “You’re so stupid.”

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He starts the car and they take off down I-10 toward New Orleans. Doc, Billy and Moldy are sitting on Southwest Airlines. Billy, “I hope your friend, Gene Street, has some fast bikes. We’re gonna have to go double quick from the

airport.” Doc, “He’ll meet us at the terminal. pro.” When they arrive at the New Orleans airport, Gene and friends are waiting with a gooseneck trailer with 5 motorcycles inside and two more riders to help out with the chase. Gene was a Marine. He’s thinking about this as a He has small earpiece radios Don’t worry, he’s a

military special operation.

for everyone so they can communicate on the bikes. Everyone gets briefed. the truck. Gene, “Everyone look here. Here’s where we are. They are Gene opens a map on the tailgate of

going to slow or stop in New Orleans traffic in about one hour. We know this, because the cell phone company got a They were at Mobile. If

hit on Jeanette’s phone at 1:00.

they are going for Mexico, they’ll take I-12 then back on I-10 to Houston from right here.”

28

Gene put his finger on the map. them in traffic easily.

“We should be able to find

We’re looking for a red 67 Chevy

convertible with Florida plates.” Doc, “I’d like to send two riders down the road just in case they slip into Texas.” Gene, “Great idea.” Doc, “If they make it to Mexico, I’m afraid I’ll never see her again.” Gene, “If they make it that far we’ll just have to go in and get her. Agreed?” Doc agrees.

Moldy, “The closest crossing will be at Laredo, across the border is Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. there.” Gene, “They’ll have to stop for gas and food so we need to trade off stopping at gas stops and truck stops along the way and ask about the car.” Doc, “It’s a red Custom 67 Chevy convertible. miss it.” There’s always something happening in New Orleans. All You can’t They may have friends

they need is the slightest reason to celebrate and it’s a party that lasts for days. excuse. The 4th of July is just such a

29

Carlton and Vidajet can’t resist taking a cruise through the French Quarter. It’s a mixture of criminals and

tourists that never gets cleaned up. Vidajet knows people here. over there. “Hey, stop by that pay phone

I want to get some Kryptonite.”

Carlton, “I need to cool out, too.” Vidajet gets out of the car and walks to the pay phone. Carlton turns to Jeanette. make a scene. “Look here, I don’t want you to

So, here’s a blanket to cover yourself, and

don’t be moving around.” Vidajet hangs up the phone and returns to the car. “We’re in luck. best weed.” Carlton, “How much?” Vidajet, “For me the bag is free. Too good to pass up.” My Haitian friends here always have the

Doc, Billy, Moldy and company are spread out on the Highway I-10 checking out traffic from overpasses, entrance ramps and scooting in and out of traffic as it moves toward downtown New Orleans. to Doc. Moldy is perched on top of an overpass with field glasses. “I can see about 2 miles out east. I don’t see them. They are chatting and giving reports

Doc, “Just stay put, if they come by you’re going to see them.”

30

Billy is riding along I-10 West. What if they have changed cars?“ Doc, “That’s a possibility.”

“I haven’t seen anything.

Billy, “I’d like to take a detour around the French Quarter. Just to be sure they didn’t stop here.” There’s enough of us to cover the

Doc, “Great Idea. highway.”

Billy, “I’m on the case.” Billy turns off the highway toward the French Quarter. The Quarter isn’t that big so it’s not surprising that Billy passes Carlton going in the opposite direction on Canal St. He is amazed and excited that he spotted them. I just passed them on Canal St.”

“Doc, they’re here!

Doc answers back, “Did you see Jeanette?” Billy, “No. Wait I’m turning around.”

He spins the motorcycle around on the wet street and accelerates after them. tail. In a few seconds he is on their I don’t think they see me.”

“I’m 20 feet from them.

Doc, “Tell me, where exactly you are.” Billy, “I’m at Canal and Brian going south on Canal Street.” Doc, “Don’t loose them. And don’t get too close.” So, does Gene’s guy.”

Moldy, “I know my way around.

Doc, “Meet me at the Canal Street exit ramp and I’ll follow you from there.”

31

Carlton runs a red light at Bourbon St.

A trolley car cuts When he

Billy off causing him to skid on the wet pavement. gets up he has lost sight of Carlton. Billy, “I just wiped out on Bourbon and Canal. in traffic. river.”

I lost them

But they must be headed south toward the

Gene says,“Let's surround the Quarter and work our way in.” Carlton is taking directions from Vidajet. Charters St.” Carlton, “I don’t want to hang out here too long. get it over with quick. Just run in and out.” So let’s “Take a left at

They stop in front of a townhouse with a drive way and gate. Vidajet, “That’s cool. I’ll open the gate.” Carlton drives into the gate and stops between two buildings. Carlton says, “Remember I want it quick.” Here it is, just pull in the drive.

Vidajet, “I said, OK.” Jeanette pushes on the back of the drivers seat. “What now little girl?” tape covering her mouth. about it?” Carlton, “I’ll have to see.” He beeps the horn. Vidajet comes out to the car. Carlton,

He reaches back and removes the Jeanette, “I need to pee. How

32

Carlton asks, “Is it OK to take her inside to pee?” Vidajet answers, “I guess, these guys are cool.” Carlton, “I’ll take you inside and stand at the door. Don’t try anything or I’ll have to shoot you.” Jeanette, “I don’t want to die, I just want to go to the bathroom.” He takes off the tape on her legs and pulls her from the car. They walk into the dark row house. There are 3

Haitian men sitting around a table drinking beer and smoking weed while playing dominos. Vidajet shows her to the bathroom. One of the Haitians

says in Spanish, “How much for this little one?” Vidajet in Spanish, “Make me an offer I can’t refuse.” The men all laugh. Carlton is intimated by the Haitians, because he knows they don’t like Crackers. Vidajet goes to the kitchen with one of the Haitians. In the living room Carlton can hear Vidajet talking loudly to the Haitian. “What the fuck, this is shit.” The Haitian, “What do you expect for free.” Vidajet, “I wouldn’t smoke this shit with your mouth.” Haitian, “Well, then you pay.” Carlton is getting anxious. The Haitians guys are pissed

at the fighting going on with Vidajet.

33

One guy puts his fist on the table says in Spanish, “If you don’t have money get out.” Carlton says, “Hey, we got cash. Vidajet, “This guy owes me.” Haitian, “Yeah, but why should I give you something free that’s worth more than I owe?” Vidajet, “It’s called interest, you fucking asshole.” Haitian, “OK, that’s fine, but I need money like everyone, man. What do I look like a nigger?” No problem, Jesus!”

Vidajet, “I didn’t call you a nigger.” Haitian at the table, “I say you’re a cheap nigger.” Vidajet, “That’s better than a stupid nigger.” Vidajet pulls out his gun from his belt and points it in his face. “Now do I get the good stuff or not?”

Jeanette opens the bathroom door, sees Vidajet pointing the gun and stops. “What are you guys doing? I go into the

bathroom for 10 minutes and you’re ready to kill someone.” The Haitians start to laugh. got guts. Can I buy her?” One says, “Hey, this one’s

Vidajet, ”You wouldn’t know what to do with her if you had her. This one you bring home to Mama.”

Doc, Moldy, Billy and others are cruising the streets around the house. Billy slowly passes the house. He scans

the gate and passes on.

34

Billy, “I’m getting to the point where everything looks the same.” Doc answers, “It’s all in the details.” Moldy joins in as he rides past the house, “I want to check out this house, there’s a custom Chevy parked in the back. I can’t see too much of it. the door.” Doc, “Be cool, don’t let them know why you’re there.” Moldy, “I know boss, don’t get your panties in a wad just yet. This is just a quick stop.” But, I think it worth going to

He stops his chopper in the street side of the entrance gate and walks up to the front door. and waits. He rings the doorbell

When the door opens he is face to face with one “What do you want, man?” He sees the other

of the Haitians.

Moldy looks past him into the house.

Haitians playing cards, “Sorry to bother you man, I’m looking for Hector.” The Haitian answers, “I don’t know no fucking Hector.” slams the door and returns to the game. Moldy turns to walk away, “I must have the wrong address.” Jeanette can hear his voice in the kitchen. She peeks out He

the kitchen window to see Moldy get on his chopper and looks back at the house. He talks into his headset. “Sorry

35

Doc, there’s nothing here, but these Haitians guys playing cards, I’ll keep looking.” Billy, “Have we covered every street?” Gene answers, “I believe we should have seen them by now. They must have slipped past us on their way back to the highway.” Doc, “That’s possible.” Gene, “I don’t want them to get too much of a head start on us.” Billy, “They have to stop for food and gas.” Moldy, “Let’s get back on the road. they’re headed for Mexico.” Gene, “If we’re behind them we’ll surely catch up.” Doc, “If they’re still here, we’ll be at the border to meet them.” Billy, “I want to go back to the house where Moldy saw the custom Chevy. move on. I want to get a good look at it before I One thing we know

I’m the only one that actually saw it.” You’ll have to

Doc, “OK, we’re on the road headed west. catch up.”

The group rides up to the highway entrance ramp

headed west to Texas. Gene, “Billy, don’t get too far back. These radios only

have a 5 mile clear range and then the audio gets choppy.” Billy answers back, “Ten-Four.”

36

He turns back toward the house. back of the house.

There is an ally in the

He cuts off the motor and coasts past It looks like the car he saw in the But, it was night when he last saw He decides to park behind a He reports back to Doc.

the back of the house. drive inn parking lot. it and the top was down.

building and wait a few minutes.

“Hey, I got a good look at the Custom Chevy.” Doc, “So, what do you think?” Bill, “I don’t know for sure, because the top was down and it was dark at Shakes the other night.” Doc, “Well, lets move on.” Billy, “I want to wait for just a few minutes.” Doc, “OK, see you later.” Carlton wants to get going. “Vidajet, we are wasting time here, lets go.” Vidajet speaks in Spanish, “Thanks for the bag. you.” They answer in Spanish, “Hey, what about the girl? pay top dollar.” Vidajet points at Carlton, “He won’t let this one get away.” Carlton pushes Jeanette to the kitchen door. “Let move it. I want to be in Mexico by this time tomorrow.” I’ll I’ll see

37

He grabs her arm and walks to the car.

Billy can see her.

He knows what happened to the last guy who got in the way of Carlton. He calls out to Doc, “Doc, Jeanette is here, with the two we’re after. They’re getting back on the road.”

Doc is out of radio range. Billy, “Oh, shit.” He watches the car leave the driveway and pass him into the street. Carlton doesn’t see Billy, but Jeanette recognizes Vidajet is

him cautiously without giving him away.

checking out the bag of drugs he has just procured. Billy follows at a distance as they make their way on to I-10 heading west toward Texas. Billy calls out on the radio, “Doc, can you hear me?” There is no answer. safe distance. He continues to follow Carlton at a

Doc and Gene are riding side by side along Moldy and the others are taking turns

I-10 toward Houston.

getting off the highway to check out gas stations. Doc asks, “Hey man, I think we should set up one of the guys up on the over passes in Houston to hook up with Billy.” Moldy is listening in and says, “I say we do it. for him.” Gene, “You know him best.” I’ll wait

38

Doc, “OK, check ya later Moldy.” Moldy rides across several lines of traffic and up on to overpass. Back in the Chevy, Carlton is getting paranoid. there’s a guy on a motorcycle following us.” Vidajet looks back to see Billy in traffic, “Why are you saying that?” Carlton, “I first noticed him in New Orleans. now I look back to see the same guy.” Vidajet, “Pull off the highway and see if he follows.” They exit the highway and Billy slowly follows. Carlton looking in a rearview mirror, “I’m gonna squash this bug.” They drive into a gas station. Carlton get out of his car, But, then “I think

walks to a pay phone and drops a coin into it as he keeps an eye on Billy slowly passing by to meet Moldy on the over pass. Carlton waits for the call to be answered.

The phone call is answered by his old East Texas friend, Jimmy in Houston. “Well you got me, start talking.”

Carlton replies, “Jimmy it’s me Carlton.” Jimmy, “So, what’s your pleasure? got the poison.” Carlton, “I’m traveling to Houston on I-10. biker dudes on my ass. We’re out numbered.” I’ve got these If you got the cash, I

39

Jimmy, “I’m always up for an ass whoopin. those two wheeling fools. the firepower.

Plus, I hate

They’re easy prey and we have

But, it will cost you.”

Carlton, “Can you meet us?” Jimmy, “I need to roust some outlaws. But, Hell yes!” Carlton, “We’ll be coming in about 5:00 on I-10 from the east.” Jimmy, “The payoff better be sweet.” Carlton, “She’s 18 and drop dead gorgeous.” Jimmy, “Great prize.” Carlton I’ll stop at Sam’s Place and wait for you. Billy and Moldy are sitting on their bikes waiting for some movement. Moldy says, “Look we’re out of range with the others. they get back on the highway. with Doc.” Billy, “We should be able to shut them down in Houston.” Moldy, “We can’t take any chances. can follow them. I’ll leave now and you When

I’ll scoot ahead and meet up

Just go into the station and get a drink

so it looks like your just there for a pit stop.” Billy, “Yep, I want to get closer to see Jeanette. make a move if I don’t have to.” Carlton walks back to the car looking at Billy and Moldy. Moldy drives off. I won’t

40

Carlton gets into the car. “I called for reinforcements.” Vidajet, “Oh man, this is a war.” Carlton, “If you want to get to Mexico. some tacos.” Jeanette is looking out the window at Billy as he rolls into the station, gets off the cycle and walks into the station. Carlton holds his pistol tightly as he walks by him. Vidajet, “No man not here. get him later.” Carlton starts the engine and drives out onto the highway. Billy watches out the station window. sight he uses his radio to call Moldy. highway again. As they go out of “They are on the Let’s get on the road, you can You got to break

I saw Jeanette sitting in the back seat.

She’s OK, but looks frightened.” Moldy, “With good reason. We’ll get her.”

Billy, “This guy is very bad character.” Moldy, “That’s a fact.” Billy starts his cycle, revs the engine and tears out on to the highway. Carlton is driving toward Houston. Looking back in the

rearview mirror, he spots Moldy dodging behind traffic to hide behind them.

41

Carlton, “We have a fly following us. he is.”

Let’s see how good

Moldy looks ahead to see the Chevy slowing. into traffic. behind. The highway is crowded with 18 wheelers. behind one.

He cuts back

Carlton speeds up and leaves Moldy far

So, Moldy hides

He is just feet away from a Yellow Transport.

He knows that these truckers drive fast and fearlessly. Moldy is only afraid of truck drivers and young woman in small cars. reasons. They are dangerous to bikers for different

But, experience has shown, don’t get in the way

of a trucker on a tight turnaround, or a young woman applying eye liner and talking on a cell phone at 60 miles an hour. Carlton is weaving and cutting in front of cars and trucks. Vidajet says, “What the fuck are you doing? old fart. toast.” Carlton, “I’m just fucking with him. Cat and mouse.” This guy is an

When we hookup with your rednecks he’ll be

Jeanette sarcastic, “You guys are very clever.” Carlton, “Shut your mouth.” He puts a pill in his mouth.

Jeanette, “Oh great, just what the doctor ordered.” Carlton, “It’s a good thing I’m driving.”

42

Vidajet looks back at Jeanette, “Take my advice, shut up, he’s not in a good mood.” Jeanette, “I’m sick of you two telling me when to eat or pee.” Vidajet, “Just do what we tell you.” Jeanette, “You better treat me with respect.” Carlton, “Give me one good reason.” Jeanette, “You’ve got a motorcycle gang after you, and they won’t stop coming at you, no matter what.” Carlton, “By the looks of the two bikers we just saw, we’ll be in Mexico before the others can even get close.” Jeanette, “If my mother gets her hands on you two, you’ll wish the cops had gotten ya.” Vidajet, “Hey, my Mama is meaner than any biker gang.” As they enter the Houston area, Doc, Gene and the others are within radio range. you hear me?” Doc answers back, “Yah, what’s happening?” Billy, “I’m a few hundred yards in back of the Chevy. They’re weaving in and out of traffic.” Doc, “Where is Moldy?” Billy, “He’s following them, too.” Doc, “Is Jeanette, OK?” Billy calls out to them, “Doc, can

43

Billy, “I think so. all.”

She looked a little scared, that’s

Doc, “Moldy, what are you doing.” Moldy, “I’m on their tail and I going to stay here.” Doc, “We’re going to force them off the highway and ambush them when they stop.” Moldy, “Sounds like a plan.” Billy, “These guys are carrying big guns.” Doc, “You got a better idea?” Gene, “Look, we’re not dealing with boy scouts.” Billy, “You’re right. as hostage.” Moldy, “They won’t hurt her.” Gene, “You mean they won’t kill her?” Moldy, “Yah, they need to have something to bargain with.” Doc, “Let’s stick to the plan.” Carlton drives off the highway. The bikers follow close That’s my point, they have Jeanette

behind unaware they are riding into a trap. At Sam’s Diner in Houston, red necks are drinking beer and talking at the counter. men. Jimmy is the leader of the nine

He is telling them what is about to happen and what

he wants them to do for him. Jimmy, “Yeah, the bikers are coming in from New Orleans to give my friend from Nacogdoches some shit over a girl.”

44

One of the guys says, “I hope she’s sweet looking.” Jimmy, “Well, that remains to be seen. scare them off and send them packing.” Guy, “I want to send them back in tiny pieces.” Jimmy, “Just bang up the bikes, that’s all. I’ve got We just want to

sludge hammers and the such in the back of my pickup.” Carlton rolls into Sam’s parking lot and sees the guys coming out of the diner with Jimmy. Carlton looks at Vidajet, “These bikers are in for a head banging.” Vidajet answers back, “Holy shit, I’m staying in the car. These guys don’t like niggers.” Carlton, “You just watch the Princess here.” of the car and walks to greet Jimmy. Jimmy pointing toward the car, “Hey man, what’s with the nigger?” Carlton, “That’s Vidajet, he works for me.” Jimmy, “That’s cool. the bikers?” Carlton, “Just pacify them, OK?” Jimmy, “Our pacification program is strictly to immobilize the insurgents.” Carlton, “Whatever.” Jimmy, “How many are there?” Nice chick. What’s happening with He gets out

45

Carlton, “I don’t know.” Jimmy turns to see the bikers lined up at the entrance of the parking lot. Jimmy’s nine rednecks rush to his pickup

and choose their weapon from demolition pry bars, sledgehammers and concrete cutters. The painted signage on

the tailgate reads Jimmy’s Deconstruction Company. Doc, Billy, Moldy, Gene and others get off the bikes with motorcycle chains and crow-bars. Moldy hadn’t seen this kind of action since Tet at Nam. Billy looks at Doc holding a cycle chain. what your doing. Doc, “It’s been a long time, but I can still kick ass.” Jimmy and the rednecks start walking toward the bikers like modern day Gladiators. Jimmy walks by Carlton and says, “I hope you know

“This would be a good time to get out of here.” Carlton gets behind the wheel of the Chevy and starts his engine as the first of Jimmy’s guys reaches over with a pry bar and smashes Doc’s motorcycle gas tank in half. spills over the bike and the ground below. The gas

Jeanette sees

another guy light a Zippo and toss it toward the bike and screams, “Daddy get out of there!” right before it explodes.

46

Jimmy drives out across the street toward I-10.

The battle

goes on in the parking lot until all the cycles are trashed, but Billy’s. The rednecks retreat after cutting Gene’s bike in two pieces with a concrete cutter. beyond repair. Doc yells out to Billy, “Follow them!” after Carlton’s Chevy. Billy tears out The other bikes are damaged

Carlton is driving west to the far

side of Houston to pick up a new car he’s trading the Chevy for. They pull into a self-storage building and go into He opens the door and is greeted by a huge “You must be Jimmy’s friend. Go to 125 in

the office.

toothless guy. the back. of it.

Leave the keys in the Chevy and I’ll take care

It’s a black ford pickup, it isn’t pretty, but it’s

real fast.” Carlton drives around to 125 and parks the car. up his duffle bag from the trunk. Billy is alone on the highway hoping to catch up with them. “Doc can you hear me?” Doc answers back, “We’re here, but two of Gene’s guys need medical attention and all the bikes are trashed.” Billy says, “Well, they sure gave us a Texas welcome.” Gene cuts in, “Looks like the Alamo all over again.” Moldy says, “There’s cops all over the place here.” He picks

47

Billy answers back, “Are you guys OK?” Doc, “Just a little banged around, nothing serious.” Billy, “What next?” Doc answers, “Just find them and stay with them until we can catch up.” Billy, “I hear you, 10-4, out.” The road is fast and clear from Houston to San Antonio. Carlton and Vidajet push Jeanette into the middle of the pickup’s bench seat. Carlton, “I hope the AC works on this piece of shit.” Jeanette nudges Vidajet with her elbows, “Move over, I don’t like being so close to you.” Vidajet, “I wouldn’t be so particular if I were you.” Carlton, “You think you’re better than us, but look where you’re at.” Laughing.

Gene calls ahead to a friend in San Antonio to arrange for more motorcycles for the crew. There’s a large group of

airmen at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio who have motorcycles. They agree to fly a chopper out to pickup Doc It’s bending

and the guys and bring them to the air base.

the rules, because of regulations that forbid civilians from flying in an AF choppers. Gene is a highly respected Within an hour

Ex F16 pilot, so they do anything for him.

they are on their way to a special hanger at Lackland.

48

Doc and Gene are riding side by side in the chopper. is sitting in the open door with his feet hanging out.

Moldy

Gene asks Moldy, “Hey, why do you sit in the open door?” Doc, “Don’t ask.” Moldy, “I discovered that when we would go out on recon that it was better to sit in the door.” Doc, “See I warned you.” Gene, “There’s been a few guys fall out.” Moldy, “We used to ride in the seats at first. Then some

stupid A hole at the Pentagon got the idea to defoliate the jungle. Then the little bastards could see us coming and Many a good man got shot in

shoot at us through the trees.

the ass right through the floor and seat.” Gene, “Yep, but no one’s gonna shoot at you.” Moldy, “Why take the chance. Plus, if we go down, I can

jump before we hit the ground.” Doc, “I think he’s happy there, let him be.” The chopper moves across the landscape toward the setting Sun. Carlton is driving the pick up toward San Antonio. Vidajet asks Carlton, “Got any crank for me?” Carlton, “Yeah, it’s in that bag on the dash. more than one line. It’s killer stuff.” Don’t do

Jeanette, “That’s what I would expect from you two.”

49

Carlton, “I told you that if you didn’t behave I would put you down like a sick dog.” Jeanette, “I expect when you were a little boy you liked to kill cats and torch buildings.” Carlton, “What do you care?” Vidajet, “He told me about how he would catch frogs and explode them with Black Cat fireworks.” Jeanette, “I heard about this stuff from the FBI Files on TV.” Carlton, “I can say I’m a good example of what happens to a kid, who has been beaten. But then you get used to it.

After a while it just makes you plain mean.” Vidajet, “In Haiti it’s the way you get kids to behave, beat the shit out of them.” Jeanette, “My parents never hit me.” Carlton, “I’ve heard it all. they all come down on you. But when push comes to shove They loose a job, you get a It’s all good.”

slap, you drop your food, get a kick.

Vidajet snorts the crystal. “Wow, this is great shit.” Carlton, “Give me one.” paper. Vidajet hands over a small folded Santana’s “Evil Ways”

He opens it and snorts it.

is playing on the radio. and listens to the music. off his nose.

Jeanette sits back in the seat Carlton wipes the white power

50

His 9mm Glock is laying on the dash.

Jeanette looks at it,

but she is too afraid to go for it, even though it is within her reach. guns. She has never had any training with

Doc always had a gun in the shop, but never let her His experience at Jackson Memorial Hospital gave

touch it.

him a healthy respect for what can happen to kids that play with firearms. The chopper lands outside hanger 20 at Lackland and the crew walks into it. Doc and Gene are met by 15 fighter

pilots and crew with enough motorcycles to continue their long chase to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. some military firearms. One of the Pilots asks Doc, “Do you need any more help?” Doc answers, “We need all the help we can get.” Moldy gives the bikes a going over before they head out to the border. Doc picks out a beautiful custom chopper. The owner says, “You break it you fix it.” Doc, “I’ll do better than that. you a brand new one.” Gene fires up his chopper, “We’re out of here.” The group motors out into the night. If I break it, I’ll build They also loaned them

51

The Fighter Pilot stands in the hanger with his cell phone calling all of his biker friends. and so on. Billy is out on the highway running into San Antonio. Frustrated, he decides to open up the Kawasaki. He is They call their friends

riding low, he looks at the speedometer, it reads 120, then 145, then 165. lightning. He’s passing trucks and cars like Although he is

He knows this bike will go 176.

experienced at high speed on the raceway, on this highway there are dips that can leave you airborne for seconds at a time. Gene, Doc and the guys are entering interstate 35 when Billy races by at 165 miles an hour. Doc calls out, “Holy shit, there goes Billy.” Moldy, “I told you this kid had guts.” Gene, “His headset batteries must be dead. you can catch him.” Moldy, “No way, not on this thing. chasing demons.” Carlton truck is parked in a BP station. filling the truck with gas. window. “I need some money.” Just get in the truck and keep Vidajet is Let him go he’s just Moldy, see if

He walks to the driver’s side

Carlton, “I’ll pay for it. an eye on sweet sixteen.”

52

He gets out and walks to the open store. the dash for the 9mm, it’s gone.

Jeanette looks to

She looks at him through

the window as he walks around picking out Doritos and beer. He stops at the counter, points his gun in the face of the young attendant. dollars. He opens the register and hands him $200

Carlton shoots at the video cameras.

He points the gun at the kid, “This is your lucky day, you live.” He walks out to the truck, slides in and says, “Here’s dinner.” He takes off down the ramp to I-35 west.

Jeanette and Vidajet are quiet as the truck reaches 125 miles an hour. Carlton, “We’ll be in Mexico in a few hours. Then we can

kick back eat some Mexican food, I can’t wait.” Doc and the gang are 30 miles ahead of Carlton and headed into Laredo. road. Doc pulls over beside him. “Hey kid, are you OK?” Billy answers, “Nope and I won’t be until we find Jeanette alive and well.” Doc, “I understand why you didn’t tell me you were going out, I would have thrown a fit.” Billy, “Well, sometimes Doc, you’re a jarhead.” They see Billy stopped on the side of the

53

Doc, “Nope, I’m a jug head, I’m an ex-Marine, jarheads are Army.” Carlton’s Ford pickup is running fast toward Artesia Wells on I-35. Jeanette is half asleep. Vidajet is doing

another line of crank. Vidajet, “Let me drive for a bit.” Carlton, “You can’t drive for shit.” Vidajet, “Man, you never letup on the black man.” Carlton, “True.” They pass the highway sign for the Artesia Wells. Carlton, “I need a break for refreshments.” Vidajet, “But we’re almost to the border.” Carlton, “I want to take a short side trip. these bikers are closing in.” Jeanette is listening. She says, “You’ll never get across the border alive.” Carlton, “You know something I don’t?” Jeanette, “Well yes, my Dad won’t stop until your dead or in jail. He has a big advantage.” Just in case

Carlton, “What’s that?” Jeanette, “He always says, the most committed wins.” Carlton, “So far that’s gotten him nothing.”

54

The song, “She’s not there”, by Santana is playing on the radio. The pick up truck rolls into the dusty parking lot Carlton gets out of the truck.

of a small Texas Roadhouse.

Carlton says, “Don’t get any ideas about running away. You’re in my world now.” disappears inside. Jeanette looks over at Vidajet, “What are you doing here with this jerk? a long time.” Vidajet, “I’m just along for the ride.” Jeanette, “I need to use the bathroom.” Vidajet, “Carton will kill me if you come walking through that door.” Jeanette, “Well, that doesn’t change the fact that I need to go to the bathroom.” Vidajet, “You always got to pee.” Jeanette, “I didn’t say pee.” Vidajet, “Oh.” Jeanette, “Look, there’s no way I can get back to the highway. I’ll be good, I promise.” This is gonna put you in a Texas jail for He walks to the front door and

Vidajet, “OK, lets go.” In the roadhouse the live country music is loud. is at the bar talking to a woman. Carlton

She isn’t interested in

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him, but he keeps annoying her. drunk.

He is high and getting

Carlton, “So, what’s a whore doing in a nice place like this?” Woman, “Look buddy my boyfriend is playing here, back off.” The band finishes its set and her boy friend Johnnie walks over to the bar. The woman says, “Johnnie this guy won’t leave me alone.” Johnnie leans over to Carlton, “Hey man, what’s your problem?” Carlton, “I don’t have a problem, you do.” Johnnie, “What’s that?” Carlton, “For one, this bar whore.” Johnnie grabs Carlton from the bar stool and pulls him out and into the parking lot. and kicks him in the ass. asshole.” past. Johnnie pushes him to the ground He says, “Don’t come back,

Johnnie turns to see Vidajet and Jeanette walk

Carlton gets to his feet and walks to the pickup He can see that

truck dusting him self off along the way. Jeanette and Vidajet are gone.

He opens the door and takes his 9mm out from under the seat and walks back into the bar. Vidajet stops him inside. Vidajet says, “Don’t do anything crazy. to the bathroom.” I just let her go

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Carlton, “Get the fuck out of the way, I’ve got somebody to kill.” He walks over to Johnnie at the bar and pushes him back off the barstool. He points the gun in Johnnie’s face. Johnnie!” The

woman yells, “Don’t do it!

Johnnie, “Put the gun down and I won’t kick your ass.” Carlton yells across the room to Vidajet, “Get the girl.” Vidajet bangs his fist on the bathroom door. “Lets go.” Carlton pushes Johnnie back against the bar. The bartender

holds his hands in the air and says, “We don’t want any trouble in here.” Johnnie is not backing down. Kill me?”

Johnnie, “What you gonna do?

Carlton picks up his longneck beer and takes a swig. Carlton, “You caught me at a bad time.” Carlton steps back to walk away. the fuck.” He turns back says, “What

He shoots Johnnie in the face 3 times. Carlton tears the Vidajet

Everyone in the bar dives on the floor.

bar phone from the wall and empties the register. and Jeanette run for the door. the pickup.

Carlton backs out slowly to

Vidajet drives up to him and they spinout in a

hail of gravel. Approaching Laredo in the black West Texas night, Doc, Billy, Gene and Moldy are apprehensive about the prospect of finding Jeanette. Doc is talking to the others on the

57

radio headset as they speed across the desert toward the Laredo city lights. Doc, “Guys, I’m not sure we’re doing the right thing.” Billy answers back, “We need to stick to the plan.” Moldy, “Somebody got a better idea?” Gene, “We can do a hostage rescue better than the FBI.” Billy, “What makes you think that, I’ve never had to do this. The other thing is that paranoid crazy people have a

radar that tells them when they’re in trouble.” Gene, “We have two big advantages. the rules and these guys are crazy.” Doc, “I hope your right.” Gene, “Crazy people make mistakes. We’ll get them.” We don’t have to follow

Doc, “What’s the plan if they make it across into Nuevo Laredo?” Gene answers in Spanish, “We go where they go. forget they still need her alive.” Doc, “Should we get help from the Mexican Police?” Gene, “It’s a different world down here, they would want us to pay them to help us and they would want a lot.” Moldy, “There’s a reason Mexicans cross the Rio Grande by the thousands.” Later at the Mexican Boarder, Doc and guys wait for Carlton. Gene is talking to a Mexican Border Guard. Don’t

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Gene, “Have you seen two guys in a car with a 18 year old girl?” He takes out a high school photo of Jeanette and

shows it to him. The Guard answers, “Yeah, all night long there has been cars and trucks with kids that look just like this crossing back and forth to the bars. They all look the same.”

Carlton is looking at an old map of West Texas he found in the glove box. He tells Vidajet to turn North at Farm Road

1472 which crosses the Rio Grande then connects to Rte. 2 on the Mexican side. Carlton, “We’re going to cross North of here and cut back to Nuevo Laredo.” They drive north on FM 1472.

Back at the border Doc is getting worried that something has gone wrong. He asks Gene to talk with him privately. Doc asks, “What next?” Gene, “We need to leave someone here and cross to the other side. I think the bars are a good place to look for them.

These guys will feel comfortable, because of all the American kids who are partying.” Doc walks over to Moldy and Billy. “Look we’re going to cross and check out the bars. the talking. Follow Gene and let him do

His Spanish is good.”

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They start up the motorcycles and line up at the border crossing check point. Gene studying a map, “I think we should send one of our guys to this bridge over the Rio Grande on FM 1472. were them I would cross there, less conspicuous.” A few minutes later, Carlton, Jeanette and Vidajet cross into Mexico over the 1472 bridge and turn south on Rte. 2. They stop on the side of the road. Carlton pulls his He counts out If I

duffle bag from the back of the pickup.

$5,000 out of a stack of $320,000 in cash, stuffs it into his pants and closes the duffle bag. Carlton says, “Well, folks. It’s party time!”

Vidajet surprised, “Where did that come from?” Carlton, “Our friends in New Orleans and Houston.” Jeanette, “You mean this was just a drug deal?” Carlton, “Do you think I would go through all this shit just for you?” He counts out $500 for Vidajet, “Here’s

some walking around cash.” Vidajet, “Let’s get some good Mexican food and party down!” Jeanette crying, “I just want to go home.” Carlton, “We’re not finished with you. I have some business to do in Nuevo Laredo. Then you can call Daddy.”

Vidajet, “What about Carlos?”

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Carlton, “He and his cowboys will meet us at the Little Cock. It’s just a few minutes away.”

Doc, Gene and Moldy enter The Nuevo Cactus Club that is packed with young Americans drinking beer and dancing. Gene walks to the bar. The bartender walks down the bar to Gene takes the photo

him, (Spanish) “What can I get you.”

of Jeanette and shows it to him. (Spanish) “Have you seen her?” The bartender looks carefully. “There are so many of I just can’t say.”

these American kids that come and go. Gene says, “Thanks.” crowd checking. He takes a table with Doc and Moldy. we are looking in the right place.

Then he walks around through the

Moldy, “I don’t think This bar is for kids.”

Doc, “Yeah, we need to look in places where the criminals go, and this is not it.” on the motorcycles. Gene gets a call on his cell phone. me.” He answers, “Talk to He looks at They go out into the street, get

He listens carefully and ends the call.

the others, “Well, we have a dark Ford pickup that crossed the border bridge an hour ago. They would be here by now.

The border guard said Jeanette looked fine.” Doc, “Lets fan out and find that pickup.” Moldy, “You got it, boss.”

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Billy starts his Honda, “I’m going to enjoy hurting these guys, big time.” Carlton parks the pickup in front of the Little Cock Club, Carlton, Jeanette and Vidajet walk slowly into the trashed out bar. In the middle of the room sits Carlos and three They all turn as the

company enforcers at a round table. three enter.

Carlton carries the duffle bag to the table, “Good to see you Carlos.” Carlos, “I’ve been waiting for a few hours. send the posse.” Carlton puts the bag in front of Carlos, “Well we had a few interruptions along the way. Carlos, “Is it all here?” Carlton, “I took $5,000.” Carlos eyes Jeanette, “I see you have a brought a sweet asset.” Vidajet, “She’s a real tiger.” Carlos, “Who’s this?” Carlton, “He’s Vidajet. He watches my back.” Anyway, here’s the goods.” I was about to

Carlos points to a chair at another table, “Tell your dog to sit.” quite. Carlton gestures to Vidajet to sit down and be

62

Moldy stops as he spots the dark pickup parked outside the Little Cock Club. He calls in on the radio, “I think I You

have them at the Gallo pequeno (Little Cock) Club. can’t miss the sign with the Rooster on it.”

Doc calls back, “Don’t make a move until we get there.” Moldy parks his bike close to the driver’s side door so it can’t be opened. He walks to the front door and looks

inside through a dusty window to see Jeanette standing in front of the table with Carlton and Carlos. He says on the radio, “We have them boys, and Jeanette is OK.” Gene answers back, “What are we up against?” Moldy, “Well Captain, we got 4 Mexican guys at a table, two others who could be the kidnappers.” Gene, “Can you see any hardware?” Moldy, “The Mexicans are packing and the rest I can’t say. This looks like a drug deal to me. bag in the middle of the table.” Carlton, “I say we have a drink and celebrate.” Carlos, “I want to check out the delivery to make sure there’s been no sticky fingers in the candy jar.” Carlton, “Well, that’s cool with me. I’m going to get a There’s a blue duffle

drink while you’re checking things out.”

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One of Carlo’s gang is a counter and takes the bag to another table and lays out the cash to count it. Carlton points to Jeanette to take a seat with Vidajet. “Bartender, a bottle of Tequila por favor.” He walks to the bar and waits nervously watching the cash counter. His right hand is behind his back tightly holding

his Glock that is tucked into the small of his back. The bottle and glasses are placed on the bar. pours a shot and downs it. Carlos points to Carlton, “You look afraid amigo.” Carlton, “Just wired, I’ve been up for two days.” Vidajet, “We been running hard.” Carlos points at Vidajet, “I want to tell you a story. I was in Guatemala with this guy that couldn’t keep his mouth shut. Tegucigalpa. We were carrying a load of product to As we walked along a cane field a couple of Carlton

guys walked out of the field with AK47’s and told us to get on our knees. They looked at what we were carrying and

asked, “It we would like to make a contribution to the Peoples Liberation Army of Guatemala?” “Yes. They shot him in the head.” I said, “What did you do that for?” He answered, “He talks too much.” Vidajet gets the drift and sits quietly. My friend said,

64

Out side in the street Moldy greets Billy, Doc and Gene. Doc asks Gene, “Do you want to wait for your other guys to get here?” Gene, “Well, there’s six of them that we know about.” Billy, “Let’s just go in and get her out.” Doc, “I don’t want Jeanette to get shot if these guys open fire on us.” Moldy, “Here’s a plan. of noise. Jeanette.” Gene, “That’s not bad. more manpower. Doc nods a yes. Agreed?” Moldy walks around the building. Billy, Except, I would like to have some I go to the backdoor and make a lot You guys go for

When they come to check it out.

Gene and Doc hide across the street, behind the pickup and around the corner of the building so the gang can’t escape with Jeanette. Inside the counter is finishing up. shakes his head no. Carlos says, “Looks like you forgot rule number one. show up short. How much?” Never He looks at Carlos and

The counter says, “It’s short $257.” Carlton, “I must have taken more than I thought.” He

reaches into his pocket and takes out a roll of hundreds. Carlos, “That’s fine consider it a tip.”

65

Carlton’s impulse control is not working after 4 shots of Mexican Tequila. “So for all the shit I’ve been through in

the last two days, all I have to show for it is $5,257? Plus, you accuse me of stealing. have to come here with the money.” Carlos, “No, you didn’t, but you know I don’t let things go. It’s sloppy business, and people don’t respect That sucks. I didn’t

sloppiness.” Carlton, “Well, I deserve some respect for delivering the goods.” Carlos, “Yes you do, so I tell you what I’m going to do.” Carlton puts his Glock on the bar behind him. hands in the air, “Look I’m not armed. He puts his

All I want is to

get out of here with a little retirement money.” Outside Gene’s other men arrive. Gene briefs them and they fan out. around to the back door of the bar. One of the guys runs Moldy starts a fight

with him and they throw garbage cans at one another and bang on the door. Carlos sends his men to find out what is happening. When

they open the door Moldy and friend pull them into the open and knock them out. Moldy continues to make noise.

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Carlos, “What the fuck is happening?”

He gets up from the

table, pulls his AK47 to his chest and looks down the hall way to the back. He sees Moldy and friend pushing each

other around and realizes that something is up. He says to the counter, “Lets get out of here.” He turns to the front and sees the outlines of men in the window. He opens up with a hail of bullets through the windows. The glass falls to the sidewalk. Gene and the boys don’t Carlos runs over

fire back for fear of hitting Jeanette.

to Jeanette and grabs her by the arm and uses her as a human shield. He is crying, “Don’t shoot.” Vidajet jumps behind the He points to the

Carlton snatches the duffle bag.

bar and finds a shotgun stashed there.

stairs that lead to the second floor of the building. Carlton runs to the staircase forgetting his Glock on the bar. Vidajet makes his way to meet him. They ascend to

the second floor. back door.

Moldy and friend slowly move into the

Doc says, “We don’t want the money.

Just the Girl.” Good, then

Carlos sizes things up, “So, you want the girl. we can talk turkey. Yes?”

Doc, “What do you want?” Carlos, “You are not in America now.”

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Doc, “You’re right.” Carlos, “This is my country. Gene, “We understand. Here I’m in charge, you see?” This

The other guys snatched her.

has nothing to do with you.” Carlos, “Yeah, but they have my money.” Gene, “Let us help you.” Carlos, “You get the girl, I get my money back.” Gene, “That’s the deal.” Moldy has moved into the bar, his friend has Carlos covered. Moldy walks slowly to the staircase, he looks up Vidajet fires the shotgun, and blows off a Moldy jumps back, “Shit!”

the staircase.

part of the wall next to Moldy.

Billy tells Doc that he is going to the roof. Carlos holds up his cell phone, “I can have an army here in 2 minutes with a push of a button.” Gene, “Then it’s the only thing in this place that works.” Carlos, “Clear out of my way and get my money.” Doc, “No problem. Just step back and let us in.”

Carlos backs up with Jeanette to the center of the room. In the hallway of the second floor Carlton and Vidajet are discussing how to get out of the situation. Carlton, “This is fucked.” Vidajet, “Let’s just give them what they want.”

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Carlton, “You are stupid. what we do now.”

Carlos will kill us no matter

Vidajet, “OK, so we have to kill him. Carlton, “Forget the girl.

What about the girl?”

They can have her.”

Back in the bar Gene says, “Let the girl go and you can settle up with the guys upstairs that have your money.” Carlos, “OK, ya’ll get out of here and she’s free to go.” Doc, “What you won’t shoot her?” Carlos, “All I have is my cash and this AK47. that’s all I need.” Billy is on the roof on his hands and knees crawling to a sky light, he peers down to see Carlton and Vidajet in the hallway. Jeanette is in the doorway walking toward Doc. Doc, “Keep walking to me. into his waiting arms. Don’t look back.” She walks out Moldy Down here

They walk across the street.

and friend walk around the building to the street to join up with everybody. Carlos takes out the cell phone and pushes the hands free button. (Spanish) “Pablo get your fat ass to the Little Cock now.” He adds, “Bring the exterminator.” On the roof Billy has no clue what is happening. wooden roof around the skylight is rotten. The

Billy’s weight

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is enough to collapse the roof, causing him to fall into the hallway on top of Vidajet. In the bar, Carlos starts shooting through the ceiling. The bullets fly up through the floor, just missing Billy. Vidajet pushes Billy off him and runs down the hall toward a window. He keeps going right through it on to the roof

of the joining building. Carlton is backed into a corner of a bedroom. Every time

he moves Carlos fires more rounds where the sounds of footsteps are coming from. Billy is standing at the top of the stairs. With all the

gunfire he thinks Jeanette could be hurt down in the bar. Every time Carlos shoots at the other end of the house he talks a few steps down the staircase until he can see through bullet holes in the wall. When he realizes there’s

no one in sight but Carlos, he waits for him to turn away and makes a mad dash to a bullet riddled glass window in the front of the bar. sidewalk. He crashes through it to the

Carlos runs to the window and takes aim at him. They

He looks out into a sea of motorcycles and riders. have arrived from all over the USA.

Suddenly, Carlos is

shot through the forehead and falls across the window sill. Jeanette is standing over Billy with Carlton’s Glock barrel smoking.

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She says, “You’re not going to screw up my wedding.” Carlton is standing in the second story window facing the street holding the duffle bag. He is shocked at the mass

of bikers that have come to help Doc. The Exterminator that Carlos called is on the roof of the building across with a RPG (rocket propelled grenade). He

fires it through the window and it explodes blowing Carlton from the window into the pickup truck windshield. The

duffle bag flies through the air and lands at Doc’s feet. He opens it and looks inside. He walks over to comfort Jeanette, “Here’s your wedding present, Princess.” She looks inside the duffel bag and jumps in Billy’s arms. They all get on their motorcycles and head for the border.

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