Loud screams and crashes came from the streets below, causing Athena to jump out of bed. She rushed over to the window and saw a group of people gathered downstairs. She brushed it off since things like that happened often. She got her things together and headed off to work.
As she walked, she couldn't help but notice how agitated people were. She got to the cafe and was immediately thrown hundreds of questions by a rather agitated Campos.
" Athena.....did you hear the news? Do you know? "
" Relax.....what's happening? "
" They said an asteroid is heading straight for earth and that it is likely going to wipe the earth out "
" What are you talking about? "
" They said it is probably going to happen in a month "
" Campos relax. It's probably fake news. We've heard things like this before ". Almeida said, joining us at the counter.
Athena slowly walked towards the window and looked out into the street.
" This has to be a joke ". She said.
She was pulled out of her thoughts when she heard the notification sound from her phone.
* Athena dear it's been a while. They're still asking after you. Can't you see them at least once? They really want to meet you *
She groaned heavily and stormed into the bathroom trying as hard as she could to keep her calm.
" Why did she have to text me now of all times. I am frustrated enough as it is and now I have to think about them too? "
She gritted her teeth and let out a heavy sigh. Her brows furrowed as she stared down at her phone.
" Why won't everyone just let me be? Why is everyone interested in Athena? What do you people want from me? "
She slumped to the ground and buried her head in her hands. She took deep breaths and brushed her hair away from her face.She had to keep it together and not fall apart. She walked towards the door and suddenly halted. She looked over at the mirror at the far end and as if drawn to it, began walking towards it. She balled her hands into a fist, in a bid to control her shaky fingers. She shut her eyes tight when she stood before the mirror and slowly opened them up after much deliberation.
She stared at the soulless green eyes in the mirror and slowly raised her hand to trace the scar that ran across her face, from her cheek to her jaw. She was angry at how much disgust she felt when she looked at herself. She was angry that she had forgotten what her real smile looked like. She was angry that she couldn't wear the clothes she wanted because of all the scars. She was angry that she had to live as a shell.
" It's not fair. It's really not fair "
After a while, she went back into the cafe. When she got out, Almeida motioned her to join them in front of the television. She walked closer and sat next to them.
* There were talks about blowing up the asteroid,with a couple of rocket ships so that the earth would be able to avoid severe damages. The actual size of the asteroid is currently being investigated to determine the next line of action. More natural disasters have taken place and more are bound to happen. Citizens are advised to stay calm and wait for the government's conclusion. Stay safe, everything is under control *
" Everything does not seem under control ". One of the customers said
" I'm sure everything will be fine. The government has it under control. Let's believe that ". Another lady said
" Campos I told you not to jinx us ". Almeida said, trying to liven up the room.
" I should have just kept my mouth shut ". Campos said with a small laugh.
" Senhor Costa said he wouldn't be coming to the cafe today, so we should close early ". Athena said and went behind the counter.
The mood in the room had suddenly dropped and everyone faced their businesses trying to act like all was well. Deep down they all had their fears and worries that couldn't be ignored.
........
Athena stood motionless, just letting the water run down her body as if to let it wash away her thoughts and worries. She dried off her body and threw on her dress before stepping out of the bathroom. Cold shivers ran down her spine as she almost bumped into Senhor Pedro.
" Well look who it is. My favorite girl ". He said and lifted his hand to her hair.
She recoiled and held her possessions close to her chest as if they would shield her from him. He began stroking her hair, which only made her want to throw up.
" Senhor let me go before someone sees and misunderstand". She said
She tried to walk away but he held onto her arm and pulled her back.
" I'm not done with you "
" Screw you ". She said and dug her nails deep into his face and scratched him.
He immediately let go of her arm and she ran away without looking back.
" Athena!!! I swear you'll pay for this. Athena!! ". He screamed after her.
Athena got into her room, snapped it shut and leaned against it. Her heart was thumping loudly and she was short of breath but she was smiling. She ran her hand through her hair as a big smile danced on her lips. She had gotten her hands on him. She gave him a mark to remind him of her. She caused him pain and it made her happy but only for a short while.