Man gives hitchhiker a lift home-and is shocked by the news the next day

 Despite the overwhelming fear that was overwhelming him, or perhaps because of it, Carter's resolve grew stronger. He could not continue to live in constant fear, always looking over his shoulder, dreading an unseen enemy. The uncertainty was eating away at him.The only way out, he saw, was to find Avery and uncover the truth behind their brief encounter. It was a risky choice, but Carter felt it was a necessary step to put his fears to rest and confront the looming threat. He realized Avery held the answers he desperately needed.