Here is another excerpt from my latest novel, The Awakening of Russell Henderson. Stay tuned for next week’s.

We drove west, following the directions, to John’s house, a nondescript ranch, with a dusty drive and parking area. There was no lawn or shrubs. A few more houses were scattered about. They all looked the same, all were nondescript . . . and sad. It all seemed so desolate. I pulled in. Hanna got out and looked at me with a pleading face. “I really wish you would reconsider doing the sweat with us.”

“Thanks, but no. I need to get going. It’s already getting late. It’s been nice to know you and best of luck . . . with everything.”

She gave me one final look of puzzlement and sadness, turned and walked away with her backpack and guitar. I watched her for a moment as she found a place for her tent. I drove back out on to the highway and started to head south a few miles and pulled over to argued with myself. 

I really hate to see her go. I was enjoying her company. There was something about her that I found attractive, something more than her looks. But, on the hand, I like things predictable. I don’t do things like this without researching, planning, and accessing all risks. What would happen if I went and did this sweat thing? What would happen if I did? Oh what the hell!  Russell, be adventurous for once in your life. Go back there and see what happens. She wants you to do this. But why should I do anything with someone I just met, a hitch hiker for god’s sake. You like her. Do it. So you loose a day. So what? You certainly have the time. Why rush? Take time to enjoy.

I took a deep breath, turned around and headed back and found Hanna putting up her tent. “So what do I have to wear to this ‘sweat’ thing?”