Consequences(229)

The overpowering aroma of fries, from the inside of the restaurant, lingered on her clothes as she got back into the car. Wondering about money, she saw her wedding rings. Of course—she wore hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry. She just needed to sell some. How does one sell jewelry? And where?

Back on the interstate, Claire decided to take Highway 155 South to Highway 55. That wasn’t a good decision, Highway 55 traveled slowly. When she finally reached Highway 55 the signs said to Springfield and to St. Louis. It had been so long since she actually made decisions. She was lightheaded with independence—or perhaps hunger.

Time passed. The sun started to fade and dusk loomed on the horizon. The loss of sunlight produced a similar effect on Claire’s mind. Her lightheadedness dissolved into reality. She knew without a doubt she needed to turn around. Tony would be upset and there would be a punishment—a consequence for this action, but she couldn’t keep going. First, she needed cash. Second, what would the press say? Tony wouldn’t be happy if her leaving became public. Trepidation filled every ounce of her being as she watched for a place to turn around. According to the sign, there was another exit two miles ahead.

Suddenly, questions swirled through her mind. Was there enough gas to get home? What will Tony do? Whatever punishment he chose, Claire decided—she deserved. She’d been impulsive and broken his rules. The small break was exhilarating, but it was time to face the consequences—there wasn’t another choice. If she had her cell phone, she would’ve called and told him she was on her way home. She planned to beg for his forgiveness and plead temporary—impulsive stupidity.

Lost in thought, she didn’t see the flashing lights until they were directly behind her. Once she noticed them, Claire assumed they’d pass. She wasn’t speeding, but the police car didn’t pass. Did Tony send them after her? How did they find her? Pulling over, she remembered the GPS—had she really thought she could go unmonitored? She appeared casual as the policeman approached her window.

“Ma’am, please show me your registration, proof of insurance, and driver’s license.”

“Officer, I believe I left my purse at home, by mistake. I can show you the registration and proof of insurance.” She handed him the documents from the glove compartment.

“Ma’am, your name please?” the officer asked, while reading the registration and insurance card.

“My name—my name is Claire—Claire Rawlings.”

Handing her back the registration and insurance card, the officer said, “Ma’am, I need you to get out of your car.”

Claire didn’t want to get out of the car. She wanted to go home. Her decision was made, and she needed to get home—soon. “Officer, was I speeding?”

“Ma’am, get out of the car—now.” The policeman stared at her as he mumbled into his shoulder.

“Officer, I’m in a hurry. I don’t have my purse, but I do have this watch. Perhaps your wife would like a very nice diamond watch.” She was desperate to return to Iowa—to Tony—but not in a police car.

Retrieving his gun from its holster, the police officer repeated his demand, “Mrs. Rawlings, I need you to get out of the car, and keep your hands where I can see them.” Holding his gun in one hand, he leaned toward her door. “Unlock your door; I’ll open it. Let me see your hands.”


Claire couldn’t believe this was happening. She just wanted a moment of freedom and this policeman was treating her like a criminal. Had Tony accused her of stealing his car? That didn’t seem like Tony—he wouldn’t want the public scandal.