She Rides Shotgun

The story opens with a haunting narration about a man who sees himself as a god made up of other men, tied to the violent gang Aryan Steel, which chants “Forever Steel, Steel forever.” This dark imagery shifts to a normal scene of Polly, a young girl waiting for her mother. Her estranged father Nathan, newly released from prison, appears and persuades her to come with him. Although Polly hesitates and asks about her mother, Nathan insists everything is fine and denies being a monster.

On the road, Polly notices unsettling details, such as stolen belongings from her home. At a motel she sees a news broadcast revealing that her mother and stepfather have been murdered, that she is listed in an Amber Alert, and that Nathan is the main suspect linked to Aryan Steel. Polly secretly calls Detective John Park, reporting that gang members with blue lightning tattoos were responsible. When Nathan learns of her call, he admits his lie and confesses that Aryan Steel killed her mother because of his past actions. He warns Polly that the same gang now wants her, and gives her the choice of returning to the police or staying with him. Despite her fear, Polly chooses her father, who promises honesty and teaches her survival tactics, urging her to fight back against men marked with blue lightning tattoos.

Their fragile bond grows as Nathan disguises Polly, cuts her hair, and comforts her through moments of grief, telling her that her mother’s strength now lives within her. Seeking shelter, Nathan brings Polly to Charlotte, an old acquaintance connected to his brother Nick. Though reluctant, Charlotte allows them to stay, and Polly learns more about Nathan’s violent past and the grip Aryan Steel has on their lives. These revelations deepen Polly’s struggle, as she realizes her father is both her protector and a man still entangled in a dangerous world that threatens them both.

Last Updated: August 28, 2025 at 13:36