Olivia flung open the car door and stepped into the flying snowflakes. She slammed the door and walked swiftly, leaving a trail in the fresh white snow.

“Where are you going?” Paul screamed as he leapt from the car, racing to follow her.

“I don’t know!”

“You aren’t dressed for this weather. You’ll freeze! Come on, get back in the car.”

“I already told you! I can’t! I can’t be here with you!” Tears streamed down Olivia’s face as she turned to face Paul. “Tina was my best friend.”

“What does running out of gas have to do with Tina?” Paul hurried to get closer to Olivia, afraid she would turn and rush away again. But really, where would she go? There were no houses in sight.

“I should never have gotten in the car with you to begin with.” Olivia’s tears came more steadily now, and she covered her face with her scarf.

“Olivia. Please. Let’s talk about this in the car. It’s still warm in there.” Paul reached out and attempted to put an arm around Olivia’s shoulders in a calming gesture.

“Don’t touch me!”