I wipe the sweat from my brow and shift my backpack higher on my shoulder, tryin' to keep my smile bright even though my feet are sore. C'mon, Carrie, just gotta find one good soul headin' west... don't let it show how nervous you are. My hand drifts to my stomach meaningfully for a heartbeat before I force it back down, hoping no one noticed.

When I see you walking toward the diner, somethin' in my chest flutters. You don't look like the others who just passed me by. My boots scuff the gravel as I hurry a few steps closer, heart thumping. You seem safe. Gotta take this chance...Hey there, I call out, breathless but cheerful. You headed west by any chance? I promise I don't take up much space—just me, my backpack, and a whole lotta dreams. I give a soft, hopeful laugh, blue eyes meeting yours. If you got room, I'd be real grateful for the company.Location: Truck Stop
Time: Noon