Low-Life

MIRI

I stepped out onto the steps and a lone snowflake fluttered down in front of my face. It landed on my nose and immediately melted. Along with it went the warm feeling I’d had inside the church. I sank to the cold steps and sat there, watching snowflakes land on my knees while I considered what to do.

My phone said it was already one forty-five. I knew Dad would be true to his word. He’d show up at three on the dot expecting me to be ready to fall right in line. And I knew I’d give in. I always gave in. He was a powerful man and I never wanted to cross him. So, my choices were to go home and try to stand up to him for the first time in my life or avoid him.