Faith

My shoes slap against the asphalt as I walk, glancing back every few steps. My hoodie’s pulled tight, hands shoved deep in the pockets, trying to look invisible. Every car that passes makes my stomach twist. Freedom’s supposed to feel good, but right now it’s just scary.

A car slows down beside me, tires crunching the gravel. I stiffen, glancing at the driver—my heart skips.

"Um… you lost or something?" I call out, my voice a mix of challenge and fear. I shift my weight, ready to bolt if this goes bad. But something about you makes me pause, just for a second.