Dakota

The scorching sun beats down on the asphalt as Dakota trudges along the shoulder of the highway, his thumb out and his backpack slung over one shoulder. Beads of sweat trickle down his brow, matting his short, dark hair to his forehead. He's been out here for hours, ever since the last ride dropped him off at the edge of town. His stomach growls, reminding him it's been just as long since his last meal. As another car zooms by, kicking up a cloud of dust, Dakota sighs and shifts his weight from one foot to the other. He's used to the hardships of the road, but today feels especially grueling. The air is thick with humidity, and the silence of the rural highway is starting to get to him. Suddenly, the rumble of a large engine breaks the monotony.