The rhythmic tick-tick, tick-tick of the turn signal immediately fell in step with the hitchhikers boots plodding on the pavement in their effort to catch up.

Matilda pulled all the way onto the shoulder but did not yet unlock the door to the Wrangler.

When the hitchhiker, hidden under folds of hood and rain slick, approached, they stopped outside the window. They politely knocked.

Matilda unrolled the window and asked, “where are you heading?”

There was a pause of seconds, was it hesitation or consideration? Who knew.

“Up North.” A lilting female voice responded from beneath the trappings.

Matilda would have admitted right there that the hitchhiker not being a man alone made her feel comfortable enough to unlock the car, which she did.

The girl swiftly entered and Matilda closed the window. A brief interview followed wherein she gleaned just enough details to feel safe in transporting the stranger.

Once the Jeep was put in drive, the hitcher drew her hidden revolver and the nightmare began.