I can still picture the place I find myself in. It feels like ages since I was pulled into the shadows, step by agonizing step.
With a deep breath, I crossed the street and took a left at the corner. As I moved forward, the familiar sight of the brothel where my mother works came into view. I pushed through the door and spotted Andy, my mother's closest friend.
"Hey, Andy," I called out as I entered. She turned around, her eyes widening as she noticed the bruises on my knuckles.
She was well aware of the fights I'd been getting into with the rough crowd on the streets. "Girl, what have you been up to? Didn't your mama tell you to stay out of trouble?" she asked, concern lacing her voice.
I grinned and stepped closer, wrapping my arms around her in a warm embrace. She seemed taken aback for a moment, but then she returned the hug, laughter bubbling up. "What's with the sudden affection? Please tell me you haven't gotten into it with your mama again."
"Nah, not this time. The boys had it coming," I replied, a mischievous glint in my eye.
She rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. It had been far too long since I'd seen her, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me.