CHARLOTTE

CHARLOTTE

I heard the car in the distance and sighed in relief as it slowly came into view. Sonia slowed the car to a halt and got out at lightning speed. “Are you alright, Signora? What happened?” she asked, staring at me with concern.

I chuckled and slowly rubbed my palms together. “I’m alright, just a little shaken. I’ve had quite the experience, and… I need to lie down,” I answered. I tried to stand up, but my legs started to tremble, and she reached out to help me.

She held my hand and slowly led me to the car. I sat down, and she ensured my seatbelt was firmly across my shoulder before turning around to get into her seat. “You look like you escaped from a torture room. Where were you, and what happened?” she asked again. I rested my head against the window, staring blankly into space.

“I almost got shot,” I said after a while. She started to say something, but I continued talking. “No, you’re not allowed to ask me where it happened. I’m not telling you; I’m still trying to make