~2~

I left my suitcase where it was in the floor. Carefully stepping over the debris, I grabbed my purse and emptied my savings into it. It wasn't much, bit it was enough to get by for a short while. I changed into some fresh clothes before I left, but as I was leaving, I stopped in the doorway

I'd grown up here-- granted it wasn't the best childhood-- but this was my home.

I pressed my forehead lightly against the door frame. "Goodbye, Mama. I love you."

 

****

 

After not being able to leave the house for so long, I hadn't realized how far away we were from everything. And because I had to walk, it seemed even farther.

I trudged along, bag in hand. The sun was setting, slowly resulting in long, drawn out shadows that bent across the road. The trees rustled quietly in the afternoon breeze that bit through my thin shirt. I hugged my body tightly, cursing myself for forgetting a jacket.

Eventually, the sun had set completely and night had come. I was miles from home, on my own, and had nowhere to go. I have no siblings and no extended family. Hell, I don't even have any friends. I'm not sure where I'm headed, but that's the least of my worries.

What about food? Shelter? But above all, what about the unknown?

A chill ran down my spine. I would have to think about those things later. All I know is that I had to get away from that house. Away from him.

I glanced down at my wrist, seeing the deep hues of blue and purple. I tugged down my sleeves indifferently. After all, they would be gone soon enough.