March 18-19, 2014 We bike ride back to Nerac in record time and sack out in the shed at Gabriel’s. At night, Raoul leaves. Gabriel takes me out in the forest.
Uh oh.
We hike for hours. I’m on guard. Where is he taking me? Why? I try not to think about how freezing cold it is.
After several hours, we meet up with a group of pretty tough looking men. Gabriel explains that I’m to stay with them for now. In the village is too dangerous. More Gestapo coming.
We have a bite to eat and Gabriel leaves. I’m left with about 20 men.
We get up and hike some more. I’m exhausted but hiking does keep me warmer.
Finally at first light, we find good cover in the thick woods, hunker down and get some – for me – much needed shut eye. The snow actually affords a little warmth. Some guys go back and re-direct our tracks.
I was just getting used to Gabriel and Raoul.
What next? Can I trust any of these guys? Where are we going?
One thing I think I understand: the Germans are looking for us.
c. GCYI