Across The Desert

This chapter begins with direct messages from “3 Days Ago” (204). Addie says she flies to feel closer to her father since it was an interest they shared. Jo says she sometimes feels her mother is not able to care about topics she discusses. Addie tells Jo she (Addie) will be there for her anytime.

Jo sees Addie’s ultralight as soon as she crests the rise. Addie crashed into a boulder; she is trapped in the seat. Her legs are crushed and numb, but she says they hurt when she first crashed, so Marty does not think she is paralyzed. Addie is out of water and badly sunburned on her face and neck. Addie tells them her real name: Adelaide Chapman. Marty calls 911, but the cell phone dies. Addie’s phone is smashed, so they cannot use it. Jo gives Addie water and introduces herself.

Jo and Marty pull the ultralight away from the boulder as Addie screams in pain. She is wearing jeans, and the fabric is bloodied. Addie is too weak to hold on to Marty when Marty tries to carry her, so Jo and Marty push her in the ultralight to a nearby mine entrance.