58

Nerthus

I gulp down the last bit of pride in my body as I walk towards the reception in my torn dress.

“Good morning, ma’am.”

“Good morning,” I answer, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear that must have fallen out of my ponytail. “Can I ask you to get me a taxi?”

She nods, smiling politely. “Sure.”

“With a female driver, if possible.” I lay my hand on the cold granite of the counter, and she nods again, this time with her eyes full of pity.

What a time to be alive.

“Of course, ma’am.”

“Thank you so much.”

As the taxi arrives it is indeed a female driver, and I get in with a smile, reciting my address.

We spend the ride in silence, but I sense her looking at me through the rearview mirror from time to time. She parks in front of my block, but I freeze as I’m about to get out.

“Could I ask you for a big favor?”

“Of course, my dear.”

I smile, leaning my hand onto the leather seat. “Would you get into my building to see if there is anybody around… That could see me like this?”

With