It had been a week since Charlie's sudden disappearance, and Reba was thrilled he was gone, if not for the nervous ache in her stomach that secretly feared he'd suddenly return. It wasn't like Charlie just to give up. Sighing, she got up and ran the water for the shower. The hot water and steam always helped to clear her mind, and relaxed her. She had to meet the band for practice in 10 minutes, but if she hurried, shed just make it.
She was never late. Where WAS she? Reba was always on time, yet she was due at rehearsal 20 minutes ago and still hadn't arrived. "Jim"! Narvel called out, stopping the bus driver in his tracks. "Have you seen Reba"? Jim nodded. "Sure man, she headed to her room about 40 minutes ago." Narvel thanked him, and then quickly took off towards her room. If she was there, why hadn't she come out? Why wasn't she with him and the others at practice? What could be taking so long? What if...what if Charlie had come back? "Oh, god", he muttered, and then took off in a sprint. "I have to protect her. I have to save her from him." Without knocking, Narvel burst into Reba's room, panting and out of breath. "REBA! Reba, I'll..." He trailed off at the sight before him, his eyes wide. "I...oh my god."