96 Miles

To reach Brighton Ranch, John, Stew, and the brother and sister they met, whom they learn are named Will and Cleverly, start walking along State Route 318. Will licks his chapped lips as the wind picks up. John worries that this young boy will be “the first one to slow us down” (53). Stew and John realize that they recognize Cleverly, or at least her name. She is named for her grandparents, whose last name is Cleverly, and Stewart and John know them.

Stew reveals, against John’s wishes, that their destination is 96 miles away. Cleverly questions whether walking to the Brighton’s is their best option. John responds with sarcasm. He continues walking at a quick pace, knowing they have a lot of ground to cover. He can’t stop thinking about their water supply, which, divided by the four of them, is eight cups per person to last them three days. John asks Stew to share his ChapStick with Will and lets Will hold onto it, since he clearly needs it more than they do. John starts marking off the miles on his arm with a Sharpie when they pass a mile marker. So far, they’ve walked two miles.