By Hunter Perez

My first night as Zeb’s cellmate was not the most serene experience. We had a none-too-large bed to share, and Zeb’s muscular body took up a surplus amount of space. I also discovered he snored ferociously while twisting and turning in his sleep. After being pummeled aurally and physically, I got out of bed and stood by the cell door, looking out into the dark corridor with the vain belief that I could be rescued. A dim lantern appeared at the far end of the corridor – it was Sergeant Patterson on night patrol, pausing to take a quick look into each cell. When he came to mine, he was initially surprised to see me awake, then looked behind me to the snoring Zeb spread out across most of the bedspace.

“Sorry it had to happen to you, son,” Patterson commiserated. “He’s a great guy when he’s awake, but when he’s asleep it’s another matter.”

“There wouldn’t happen to be a vacant cell where I could spend the night?” I asked. “I’d even be willing to sleep in the stables.”

“Sorry, son, but I can’t let you out,” Patterson replied. “I am sure you can figure something out – you’re a smart one.”

Continue reading A Left Turn at Albuquerque Continued – Part 03 →