Page 72 of Let's Play

My inner child wanted to tell this grandma everything about my life. Starting from my father’s death to running away from my mother’s problems. I wanted to share every single detail. There was something about the woman that felt good and calming.

Growing up in the south, I learned one big important lesson. Never let your problems show, not even to people you trust.

Every corner of the store had a camera. My face had been recorded from all the isles and angles. What if my mother had called the police? What if the charges were already pressed and I was a wanted criminal?

Fight or fight kicked in, forcing me to my feet.

“I’m fine. Thank you.” I gave my most polite small and darted for the store exit.

Walk briskly, keep your head down, and get the hell of here.

Freedom hit my face, disguised as fresh air. I closed my eyes to revel in a single peaceful moment. I needed one second of serenity, or I wouldn’t make another step.

I wished I hadn’t opened my eyes. Three police cars were parked against the storefront.

Oh shit.

My heart hammered in my chest.

Are they looking for me?

“This is ridiculous.” I told myself.

Stay calm. I repeated over and over.

Officers leaned against their cars, chatting casually.

I’m an adult. They can’t make me do anything I don’t want to do.

My body shivered.

As soon I turned the corner, I ran as fast as my feet could carry.

A thick, green tree-line behind the store would provide some cover. First, I had to make it past the store.

Past the pavement.

My legs were ready to give out.

Was I going to make it?

Risking it all, I took a look behind me.

No-one was there. Yet, I couldn’t slow my pace. I made it to grass a few feet away from the brush. I jumped over logs and pushed back branches. Limbs snapped behind me. Spider webs consumed me.

I gasped for air, barely able to breath.

I couldn’t stop.

Blood rushed to my face and my knees buckled. Covered by a canopy of dark green leaves, I collapsed to the ground.

Exhausted.

Overwhelmed. Excruciating pain radiated throughout my body.

I crawled on my hands and knees to the closest tree. Thick bark scratched the length of my back. Ants encircled me. “Sorry guys. No food,” I panted.

Was this my life? Was I doomed to the forest for the next month, too afraid to show my face to the light of day?

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