Run

Chapter 3

The clock now read 8pm declaring the end of my shift. Flora came over to me and handed me an envelope of cash.

'But Flora isn't it too early for this yet?' I questioned.

'Oh no dear, keep it. You've proven yourself hardworking and worthy today. Consider this advance.' Flora insisted.

I thanked her and shoved the envelope into my pocket.

The cool august air hit my skin as I left the shop.

'Now what the hell am I supposed to do.'

I was anxious and stressed. I stood at the corner of the sidewalk and peeked into the envelope Flora gave me.

There were $200 in there. I was flabbergasted. I could afford a place to stay with this amount.

I examined my surroundings. I could see a motel in a distance. It looked old and sketchy but it's my best shot.

The motel reeked of alcohol and cigarettes. I expected this. I walked towards the main reception and I was greeted by a dull man who didn't look too happy with his job.

'How may I help you.' he asked with his voice drained of emotion.

'I- um, I need a place to stay for a few days.' I stammered.

He looked up from the computer screen and inspected me. I suddenly felt insecure under his gaze.

'Are you of age?' he inquired further.

'Um yes. I am.' I lied.

He opened a drawer and pulled out a key.

'$12 per night. If you eat the snacks from the minibar you'll be charged further. You can call room service using the telephone that's in your room.' he explained, his tone suggesting that he's done this a million times before.

He handed me the small bronze key which had the number 506 engraved into it and gave me directions to my room.

When I reached my room I was appalled. There were empty alcohol bottles scattered all over the space and there were cigarette burns in the bedsheets. The paint was chipping from the walls and the room stank of sweat and liquor. There was only one small window and the bathroom was disgusting. It was an atrocious sight and I could see why the rent was so low.

To improve the condition of the flat I picked up the bottles and placed them in a corner. I opened the window to let some air in and cleaned the bathroom as best as I could.

I still needed my necessities. I left my room and went down to the convenience store. I bought a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and all the basic necessities. I also bought a few extra t shirts and somewhat presentable clothes.

After coming back I dumped all my purchases onto the wrecked couch and sat down on the broken bed.

I raked through my bags to find something to eat. I was starving although Flora urged me to help myself to her delicious donuts earlier in the day. I only ate one. I opened the pack of chips and removed the seal from the water bottle. I inhaled the snacks and threw away the wrappers.

After brushing my teeth and changing out of my clothes I wrapped myself in the covers I bought for $2.

The thought of being hunted down by my father terrifies me. I can't imagine what he would do to me once he sees me again. Being stuck in this horrific place but free to do whatever I want is way better than being forced into taking innocent lives and having a huge luxurious space all to myself.

I don't care about how bad the situation gets. It'll always be better than my bitter lifestyle back in eaglesvale.

I bottled up all my thoughts and drifted into a deep sleep.