“What does ‘do this right’ mean?” she asked suspiciously.
“It means we’re going to contact your grandmother first and make sure she’ll take you. It means we’re going to document what’s been happening to you kids so your stepdad can’t just come take you back. It means we’re going to make sure you’re protected.”
“But what if they send us back?” Her voice cracked. “What if nobody believes us?”
I crouched down to her level. “Look at me, sweetheart. I believe you. My brothers will believe you. And we will not let anyone send you back to a man who held a gun to your head. That’s a promise.”
She searched my face for a long moment. Then she nodded. “Okay.”
I started making calls. First to my club president, Jake, who answered on the second ring despite it being after midnight. “Rick? What’s wrong?”
“I need help. I’ve got four kids on Highway 42—teenagers and little ones. They’re running from an abusive situation. I need Marcus, I need Bill, and I need every brother who’s awake.”Continue reading…