The fluorescent lights of the train station buzzed overhead like angry insects. I clutched the envelope Alessa had pressed into my hands, my fingers trembling as I counted the bills inside. Three hundred dollars. Enough to get me anywhere I wanted to go.

*Anywhere but home.*

Alessa had whispered in the hospital corridor, her dark eyes scanning for anyone who might overhear. "My sister Maria will meet you in Phoenix City. She has brown hair, drives a blue Honda. She'll take care of you."

But ...