Valerie

I was awake by dawn, far too early in the morning than I was used to. I knew there was no way I was getting any more sleep.

I picked up my phone immediately after, calling Mina to check on her and the shop. She was no doubt opening as the early bird.

For a moment, even speaking with her brought me back to a relaxed state, reminding me of where my home now was.

‘That's right,’ I sighed to myself as I listened to my only friend’s voice through the phone. Staying here was only ...