Worth the Wait

She blew her warm breath on her hands, trying to keep herself from feeling the chill. Maybe she should start moving, the exercise would help her temperature but she’s too weak from thirst and hunger. It has been a week since her mother chased her out. Cindy wasn’t expecting it. She thought she’ll stay for at least two more years, until she’s eighteen. But no, her mother couldn’t wait any longer. She packed her bags and told her to go as soon as she turned sixteen. Not even a birthday cake to celebrate. She has always known she’s unwanted. Her father left her mom when she got pregnant. She doesn’t even know who her father is, no matter how many times she asked, her mom won’t say. Her mother hated her more because of her questions. She only thought that maybe, just maybe, he could provide support for her. That is better than nothing at all.

Her mother started a relationship with this guy, who lives with them in the house. They were planning to get married and start their own family, but they’re not keen on including her. She doesn’t like her mom’s boyfriend and the feeling is mutual. He would mock her whenever he’s home. When she’s trying to study her class lessons, he would order her around. He also goads her mother into giving her less money than she needed. Less for her, more for him.

It wasn’t a secret to her that her mother plans to run her off as soon as possible. She just didn’t realize it was this soon. In the last year, she worked part-time jobs to save up money. Only, her mom refuses to give her enough allowance because of it. She thought that since she’s earning little money, she could give her less. It exasperated Cindy to no end. How many times had she prevented herself from crying? She won’t give up. Not now. The last year was hard. She worked hard and supported herself. Still…

Being homeless is hugely different. Sleeping outside isn’t comfortable. She had short and shallow sleep. She would wake at the smallest noises. She’s not resting well. Hygiene is another matter altogether. She had to find places where she can clean herself up. And then, she would try to look for part-time work. Odd jobs here and there. Showing up with her baggage, she thinks those people know exactly what her situation is and didn’t want to be bothered too much. They probably think she wouldn’t be able to handle it and she’d probably ask for an advance or a place she can stay.

She sighed. In the last year she’d been working, she drifted apart from her friends. Well, classmates. They aren’t too close for her to ask them favors. She realized now that she should have cultivated relationships with others. She felt bad at her reasoning, though. Just so she could ask them for favors? Not cool. That would make her a user. A fake friend. Materialistic. As for relatives, well, she has none of those.

She shook her head as she plotted her plan today. Should she find a place where she can leave her bags? Having them doesn’t really help her chances of getting hired. As the darkness was slowly chased by daylight, she started to get up. Her knees are feeling weak, she had to support herself by leaning against the wall. She exhaled deeply. She’s not going to cry. She can do this. She still has a few bills left. And coins.

On her first night, she was more concerned about other people. She kept on moving. As long as there are other people around, she kept on walking. Late into the night, when there are less people, she found a spot with no one else. She sat against the wall, propped her bags beside her, and pulled out a jacket to keep her warm. It was hard. She almost started feeling sorry for herself and envious of others. Now’s not the time for a pity-party, though.

He'd noticed her in the last three days. Initially, he thought she’s only hanging out alone. He had his moments like that. Watching people on streets when he wanted a break. Then, he noticed her bags. She hadn’t changed her clothes yet, from yesterday. She looked very young. A teenager. Elian is reminded of his own teenage years, which he spent on the streets. It was hard on him, and he can only imagine how much harder it is for a girl. He has been observing her since yesterday. He’s a little worried. A girl like that… a lot of bad things could happen. He hoped she’s not homeless, but it’s starting to get clear that she is. At one point in the morning, she’s no longer in her usual spot. He almost sighed in relief. Mid-afternoon, though, she’s back on it.

Elian took his time deciding what to do. Whenever he could, he would glance in her direction. Sometimes, he would recognize the look of frustration on her face.

A few hours later, he handed her a brown bag. She stared at him before accepting it. There was a sandwich inside. He also handed her a bottle of water. She’s so hungry she didn’t feel any shame in eating the sandwich immediately. She looked down as she took bites one after another until she finished it. She sniffed as she folded the brown bag, tucking it under her arm. When she tried to open the water bottle, she learned how weak the hunger made her. He took it back and opened it for her. She accepted it and gulped the water down. Her hunger was eased.

“Thank you.” She suddenly remembered her manners and expressed her gratitude.

“How long have you been on the streets?” The man asked. She stared at him, deciding he’s not much older.

“About a week.” She honestly answered. She’s not ashamed.

“What about your family?”

“My mom told me to get out as soon as I turned sixteen.” She didn’t think he would want to listen to the rest of that story.

“I have a place… if you want a roof over your head.” He straightforwardly offered.

He stated it with no emotion on his face. Cindy was surprised by the offer, but she’s suspicious, too. She’s not naïve when it comes to men. She knows what most men want from women. A stranger offering her a place… She bit her lip as she considered her situation and her options. She doesn’t have options, actually.

She stared at him, patiently waiting for her answer. He looked kind. It doesn’t seem like he’s a bad guy. And, as she noted earlier, he’s not much older than her. He’s probably in his early twenties. Should she take a gamble?

“You’ll let me stay at your place?” She asked, wanting to confirm his offer.

“It’s only a small studio. I’m not home most of the time anyway.” Elian decided it’s best to let her know his situation. Maybe she won’t be too suspicious if he gave her more details about his living arrangements.

“If that’s fine with you, then… I’ll have to trouble you.” Cindy replied.

Elian nodded. He thought it would take longer to convince her. She proved to be easy to persuade. He told her to follow him. The apartment isn’t very far. But then, he thought she shouldn’t be too trusting. He decided he’ll lecture her later.