THE TASTE OF FREEDOM

The two teenagers leaned on the railings of the grand observation deck on top of the State Capitol building. Their expressions were a mix of awe and exhaustion.

"You know, it's kind of crazy to think that just a few hours ago we were in San Francisco. And now, here we are in Salt Lake City," Hilsa said, spreading her hands wide to indicate the sprawling city beneath them.

Abel gave her a tired look but didn't look down. His palms were getting sweaty just thinking about how high they were. He had tried to say no to Hilsa's request to climb here, but you know how that goes. Plus, he didn't want her to know this weakness.

"You can't be serious, you call a fifteen-hour drive 'a few hours?'"

But then again, maybe she could; she had, after all, spent the best part of the journey sleeping.