CHAPTER 5
The Decision
THE DRIVE FROM HIS AUSTIN HOME THROUGH Detroit was easy at that hour of the morning. It was a bright, sunny day to drive. The radio brought him breaking news about a bombing in a Tunisian museum killing 21. This just added more fuel for his plan. He thought about how he was going to explain things to John. He couldn’t believe the ironies in life and how his meeting this man had brought him hope, opportunity and reason for them to join forces.
It was 10:45 as Kristopher eased into the parking lot of the rest stop. He looked around and did not see a white pickup truck. Just then his phone rang. It was John.
“Just letting you know that I am almost there. Maybe we should decide on a restaurant where we can meet so we can relax, eat and talk.”
“That sounds great. I am not too familiar with restaurants around here. Are you?”
“Yea, I got a couple ideas. I used to travel through here quite a bit. We’ll decide when I get there.”
It wasn’t long before Kristopher watched a white Ford pickup truck ease its way toward him and then park right next to him. Both men got out of their cars, walked to the front of them and shook hands.
“It is good to see you, John. Thank you for agreeing to meet me.”
“Yes. You have me very interested. I have selected a restaurant in Louisville for us to eat. We can both drive. There is a Marriott nearby in case we need to rest after what may be a long conversation. From your intensity on the phone, I assume you have lots to discuss.”
Both men got in their vehicles and Kristopher followed John. Soon they pulled in to a Texas Steak House, parked and walked in.
Kristopher asked to be seated in a booth in a corner away from other patrons. The hostess escorted them there. It was not yet a busy lunch crowd.
“How about a bloo