I had to escape, the city was stinky and cruel

Maybe I should have called you first, but I was dying to get to you

I was dreaming while I drove, the long straight road ahead

Could taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide

This fever for you is just burning me up inside

I drove all night to get to you

Is that alright?

I drove all night

Crept in your room to make love to you

Is that alright?

I drove all night

Cindy Lauper

She had been driving for hours. Julian was asleep on the backseat, his knees drawn up to his chest, mumbling incomprehensive words in his sleep. Laura was sitting next to her on the passenger seat, telling stories to keep Carmen from falling asleep while driving. Okay I ran out of stories, Laura said, Lets play a game. What game? Carmen asked, trying to hold in a yawn, then shaking her head to clear the cobwebs from her mind. I say a word, and you tell me the first word that comes into your head, Laura said. Carmen nodded, okay.

Okay hmm.. lemme see, Laura said pensively, looking around the car, searching for inspiration. Julian, she said. Annoying, Carmen said with a grin, but cute when hes asleep. Hes not cute when hes asleep, hes fucking sleep talking! Laura said, raising her voice. Carmen chuckled. Ok, next. Food. Good. Music. Even better. One word Okay.. hmm.. magic Love. Shane was the word that immediately came into her head, but just before she said it she quickly took a deep breath. Im waiting! Laura said impatiently. Carmen shrugged. I dont know, is there really one word to describe love? Carmen asked helplessly. Laura looked out the window. Lovely,  she said. Carmen smiled warmly. Youre so cheesy, she teased. Laura looked at her, But its true! And its also scary. And complicated.

They both kept silent for a moment. Are you sure you want this? Carmen asked, raking a hand through her hair. She reached out for the mug filled with only slightly warm coffee next to her, but it was strong and would keep her awake for a few more hours. Want what? Laura asked, resting her head in the palm of her hand while staring out of the window, into the dark night.