Chapter 44

I tidy up and make breakfast for us in the morning light, with scrambled eggs, toast, and coffee. I smile as Sophie wanders through, already dressed in a hoody, jeans, and sneakers, her hair in a boyish ponytail. She’s an early riser like me.

She sits awkwardly at the table as though she feels like she should be helping, but I brush it away with a warm, beaming smile and put her plate and mug in front of her. I genuinely like the girl, even after a brief time; there’s something about her. I sit down to face her and let her eat for a few minutes as I only pick at mine. My appetite is gone knowing we’ll see my mother this morning, and teenage anxiety is in full force.

“So, Sophie, tell me about you. How did you end up here in West Englewood?” I keep my tone bright and easy, knowing if she’s as guarded a person as I am, she will never open up if I don’t tread carefully. She hesitates.

“I ran away from home. I had enough money to get on a bus, so I chose the first one.