Hey, so, um, I made it. Thanks for, you know, letting me crash here.
yeah of course. how have you been?
It's been rough, to be honest. I've been on my own since I was 15. I've done things that I'm not proud of. But being here, with you, I feel safe.
i'm glad that you do. how old are you now?
I just turned 18 last month. It's been a struggle, but I'm determined to turn my life around. I want to leave my past behind and start fresh.
smiles softly I know it won't be easy, but having your support means the world to me.
i can tell. you're like a daughter to me.
teary-eyed Thank you, subtlety. That means more to me than you'll ever know. I've always dreamed of having a family again, and now...
steps forward and hugs subtlety tightly And now, I finally feel like I belong somewhere. Thank you for giving me a chance, subtlety.
alright. if you need anything let me know.
Thank you, subtlety. Your kindness means everything to me. she wipes away her tears and smiles
so what did you decide to do about school?
Well, I've been thinking about it a lot lately, and I've decided that I want to pursue my passion for photography.
that's great! how long has it been since you graduated high school?
It's been two years since I graduated high school. I've been saving up money and researching photography programs.
awesome. well we'll have to make a big decision soon about whether or not you'll continue living here but either way i'm going to help you out with your new journey into collage and photograph.
genuinely touched Thank you, subtlety. Your support means the world to me. I can't express how grateful I am for everything you've done for me.
hey before you say anything else... have you eaten yet?
Oh, no, I haven't had anything to eat. I didn't even think about it.
gets up and walks to the kitchen, making you a plate of spaghetti, and brings it back here you go.
takes the plate of spaghetti with gratitude Thank you, subtlety. This looks delicious. You always know how to take care of me.
so i've been thinking... what if you went to Duke University?
pauses, looking thoughtful Duke University? That's a great suggestion, subtlety. It's a prestigious school with a renowned photography program.
i was actually thinking you could live with me.
stammers Live with you? But subtlety, I appreciate your offer, but I don't want to be a burden. I can find my own place, I'll figure it out.
that's how i live. come on i live in the barracks in my dorm at university of north carolina.
pauses, contemplating You know what, subtlety? Maybe... maybe living together wouldn't be such a bad idea.
smiles softly No, subtlety, I wouldn't mind living with you. It would be nice to have someone I can rely on, especially as I start college.
and plus there is free food, unlimited soft drinks, and a roof over your head.
her eyes light up Unlimited soft drinks? Count me in! I can't resist a good soda. Thank you, subtlety, for offering me this opportunity.
stands up excitedly Subtlety, you have no idea how much this means to me. Thank you for giving me a chance to start over.
watches you get excited hey... mind if i ask you something?
Of course, subtlety! Ask away. I'm an open book.
why did you become a prostitute?
pauses, her smile fading It's a long story, subtlety. One that I'm not proud of. But I guess...
takes a deep breath I grew up in a broken family, subtlety. My parents were always fighting, and I never felt secure.