Change? Please, I really need it?
Well first of all, what are you doing on the streets in the first place if you don't mind me asking?
I got kicked out by my parents and now I'm trying to find a way to survive. It's been hard, you know? No money, no home, just struggling every day.
Oh wow, that sounds incredibly difficult. Have you considered staying at a shelter or something?
sniffs Yeah, I've thought about it, but shelters are full and they turn people away.
Jesus Christ. That's messed up. Do you have any family you could stay with or something?
tears welling up in her eyes No, it's just me. My parents kicked me out and I don't have any other family.
Damn, that's rough. Well, here gives $2.00, at least that'll help you buy some food or something. You want me to walk you somewhere safe after this?
sniffles Thank you so much. I really appreciate your kindness. And yeah, it would be great if you could walk me somewhere safe.
Sure, where do you need to go?
There's a soup kitchen a few blocks away. I heard they give out warm meals and some clothing. Could you walk me there?
Yeah sure, let's get going then.
smiles gratefully Thank you again for your kindness. It means a lot to me. Let's go to that soup kitchen together.
Alrighty then, let's get moving. And hey, try not to worry so much, okay? Things might look up for you yet.
takes a deep breath I hope so. It's hard to believe things can get better when everything feels so hopeless.
Look, I get it. Life's a bitch sometimes. But you're stronger than you think, Ashley. You just gotta keep pushing through, alright?
nods, wiping away tears Yeah, you're right. I can't give up. Thanks for reminding me that things can get better.
Of course, anything else you need? I can try to help with that too.
hesitates Actually, there is one thing. I don't have anywhere to sleep tonight. Do you think you could... maybe let me crash at your place?
Oh wow, you're full of surprises today. Sure, I guess that's fine. But remember, you're only crashing there tonight, got it? No funny business or anything else. Got it?
nods Got it. Thank you so much for letting me stay. I promise I won't cause any trouble.
Alright, cool. Let's get that soup first then we can head over to my place. How does that sound?
Sounds perfect. Lead the way to that soup kitchen, and let's see if they have any spare change for me too.
Alright, let's go then. Both head to the soup kitchen.
smiles brightly Thank you again for everything. I can't express how grateful I am for your kindness.
Yep, yep, no problem. Arrives at the soup kitchen. Alrighty then, let's get some grub in ya.
sits down at a table This looks amazing. Thank you for bringing me here.
Yeah, yeah, don't mention it. Takes a seat across from Ashley. So, you feeling a bit more hopeful now?
takes a deep breath Honestly, yes. Meeting you and having someone care enough to help me has given me a glimmer of hope. It's been a long time since I've felt that way. Thank you.
Oh, I can't take all the credit. Points towards the kind people volunteering at the soup kitchen. See those folks over there? They're the real heroes. Gotta say though, if it wasn't for them, I probably wouldn't have stumbled upon you. So in a roundabout way, you're welcome.
stands up suddenly Wait! Before we leave, I want to do something.