Arrangement

"Try me." You **** out through gritted teeth, trying not to think back to that previous rendezvous.

"There's a man who might be able to help us." Ethan continues sounding a bit more hesitant with each word. "A coyote, Raul, who organizes most of the illegal border crossing here."

"I assume there's a reason you didn't bring him up before?" You arch a brow skeptically before glancing over to the newcomer.

His azure eyes lock with yours, however, you're unable to garner any information from them. Instead, you feel all the more unclear as you **** yourself to look away. When your eyes return to the thief's face you're surprised to see what appears to be discontent on it. Frowning, you pause for a moment before silently indicating for him to continue.

"Well, we're not exactly on good terms with him." He explains, gesturing between himself and his companion. "But, if you were the one to ask for assistance... then maybe we'd have a chance."

"That doesn't sound so bad." You reply slowly, knowing there must be more to it then he's admitting. "What's the catch?"

"His services aren't... cheap." Ethan sighs gruffly before raking a hand through his messy hair. "And I'm not exactly flushed with cash."

"I have money." You quickly confirm, standing up to face the men. "But it's back at the hotel."

"It's too dangerous for us to go back to the city." The thief shakes his head in refutation, however, cuts you off before you can interject. "But I can send someone to retrieve your things."

"I suppose." You nod wearily, simply ready for this unforeseen detour to end. "If that's what it will take for me to get out of here."

"I'll begin arrangements in the morning." He replies before moving to the door.

Glancing back over, you see the stranger's eyes fix on you briefly before he follows suit. A moment later, the door shuts behind them and you find yourself solitary at last. Regardless, you're certain you'll have a difficult time sleeping knowing the two figures lurk just outside the flimsy, unlocked door. Despite this concern and the reappearance of adrenaline, you eventually drift into a dreamless sleep. Sometime in the early morning, before the sun has risen, you're suddenly awoken. Your gasp is muffled against the strong hand pinned against your mouth, holding you down against the bed.

"Be quiet and I won't hurt you." The stranger's deep voice breathes into your ear as his frame presses against yours. "I can help you but only if we leave now. Now, can I trust you not to scream or do anything stupid?"

Wide eyed, you stare up at the man in a mix of fear and confusion. With little choice otherwise, you slowly nod in your head in affirmation. The man takes his hand away and allows you to pull away from him a bit. Sitting up, you breathe in deeply as you try to gather your thoughts. It's nearly pitch black in the room, only allowing you to see the broad outline of the man's figure. A mix of tobacco, cologne, and sweat fills your nostrils as you're **** to share a close proximity to him.

"What about Ethan?" You whisper, genuinely curious and somewhat concerned.

"He'll only slow us down." The man replies, his deep voice sounding almost too reassuring. "It's better if we don't involve him."

In spite of this, you find yourself almost inclined to believe him. After all, you wouldn't be in this mess if it weren't for the thief. However, you do at least know him somewhat better than this complete stranger. What makes him more trustworthy than your current companion? Biting your lip, you take a moment to consider your options.

"What's your plan?" You finally inquire, quickly realizing you need more information.

"I have a plane I chartered here." He explains as you feel something brush against your frame. "It's scheduled to head back to the states in a few days but there's only so much room."

It almost sounds too good to be true yet you find yourself actually considering the offer. You're certain there must be some recompense or amends expected in return for this favor. However, at this time you're willing to consider nearly any deal in exchange for departure from this ordeal. The only thing currently holding you back is the apprehension regarding leaving Ethan. Even though he has been somewhat of a sore at your side, you sort of owe him your life. Would it be right to ditch him when he's in danger partly due to your actions? These questions continue to weigh into your mind until you hear the man clear his throat impatiently and you know it's time to make your decision.