Page 45 of Rushed

Her look becomes more sympathetic and understanding. “Dear, I can’t help you identify yourself without some information. As you can see, unfortunately, we’ve lost a large portion of our police force today in the catastrophe. I can’t even guarantee that if I send you to the hospital or police station, that they can figure you out. You might have to wait a while to be taken care of.” She turns to an older gentleman on her right, signaling him to join us. “Jon, can you help this dear find something to eat and clean up with, and graciously find her a pair of shoes? Her feet have to be barking.”

He turns to me with a brilliant white smile, grinning from ear to ear. He’s one of those infectious people that are obviously happy to help out. “Sure, Marjory, I’ll help this little lady get looked after.”

“Here, dear—”

“Kenangan,” I interrupt. “My rescuer gave me that as a name in the interim. At least until I find out who I am.”

She smiles again and hands me a cell phone with a labeled number across the back. “That’s a mouthful. How about Keenan?” she asks.

I nod my agreement as she hands me a name tag, where she’s neatly written the name, Keenan.

“Put this on your shirt, so when it comes time to find you I can. It could be quite a few hours, but I’ll do my best to get you worked out.”

The gentleman, Jon, leads me to another set of tents. In here, I have my picture taken, my prints lifted, and the location I was found immortalized on a mug shot. Once we’re done there, he takes me to a set of tents.

“This is the women’s area. Inside you’ll find some clothes. Hopefully, some will be a close fit, and possibly some shoes too. There’s a mess hall just behind this building. It’s not much, but it’s better than popcorn farts and fresh air.” His demeanor is stiff and guarded. Tight.

I must have a look that gives away how daunted I am by all of this, because he takes my arm and gently gives it a squeeze. “If Marjory can get you worked out, she will. I’ve watched her for a few hours now, and she’s tough as nails.” He winks and leaves me alone again.

I guess it could always be worse?

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