**** Alyssa **** “Are you alright, love? Do you need some help? Do you need me to call someone?” I can’t imagine what the clerk here must think. I am covered in scratches, bruises, grazes, and mud, there are even twigs and other debris in my hair. “Oh, umm. I’m fine, thank you,” I smile what I hope is an innocent smile. She bags my hair dye, scissors, ugly ball cap, and sunglasses. I even found colored contact lenses. Add duct tape and a shovel, I’d look like I was planning a revenge killing. “You’re running away?” “Fancy dress party,” I reply lamely with another half-ass smile. Even I don’t believe me. “There’s a shelter on 29th street. They’ll help you get on your feet,” the clerk replies. I’m dumbfounded for a moment as I haven’t considered a shelter. After gaping like a goldfish out of water for a moment, she adds, “They won’t make you go home. You’ll be safe.” “Thank you! You don’t know how much that means to me.” She gives me a warm smile. I thought people would jud
Last Updated : 2022-04-13 Read more