Chapter 2

I keep sitting there quietly, letting the cold and hunger gnaw at me.

“Need a ride, miss?”

A taxi pulls up. I shake my head.

“Waiting for someone.”

Taxis come and go. It’s past 10 pm, almost closing time at the hospital, and still no sign of the Landrys.

Not a single message on my phone. The security guard can’t take it anymore.

“You’ve been waiting all day, ain’t nobody coming! I’m about to clock out, and it’s dangerous out here at night, especially for a young girl like you!”

I just manage a weak smile. What’s one more day when I’ve already waited five years?

He sighs, gives me some water and a sandwich, and decides to stay late with me since he’s worried about me.

“Thanks, mister!”

I eat the sandwich, grateful.

This is the best birthday I’ve had in five years.