Caldwell took a panicked step backward toward the exit, but found two burly bikers already standing shoulder-to-shoulder in front of the door, their arms crossed in silent, immovable defiance.
Chapter V: Safe from the Cold
Within ten minutes, the flashing red and blue lights of sheriff cruisers surrounded the parking lot. Deputies entered the diner, subduing and handcuffing Caldwell on felony charges of child abuse, unlawful restraint, and kidnapping.
As the squad cars pulled away into the snowy night, Dutch slowly dropped onto one knee beside booth three.
He reached beneath the table, gently extending his large, warm hand.
"You're safe now, little one," Dutch said softly, his rugged face breaking into a warm, protective smile. "Nobody will ever hurt you again."
Maya placed her small, trembling hand into Dutch's open palm. As she was lifted out into the warm, safe light of the roadhouse, wrapped in a thick wool blanket by the bikers who had become her guardians, she knew her nightmare was finally over.