Raven

My heart races as I lean against the kitchen sink trying to catch my breath as if I’ve been running. Which is funny, because I have been running in a way.

That man just makes my nerves stand at attention for some reason. When he first started coming in for every single meal, I got nervous that they had found me again.

I’d rather die than to go back to a life where I would be expected to spread my legs for that sick fuck to plant his demon seed.

I got lucky that one of my dad’s bodyguards made it out of the fire and got to me in time to save me at the cost of his own life. Now, I’m truly alone in the world. I only have myself to get me out of any danger.

I have to keep my eyes open at all times for the first sign that they have found me. It’s best to not stay in one place too long. I’ve already been here longer than I wanted to be.

The boss man will pay my wages in two more days. I’ll pack now and leave as soon as I get my money.

There has to be somewhere I can go and never be found. I’m so tired of running.

Throwing the trash in the dumpster, I go back through the back door making sure to lock it behind me.

I was so distracted; I didn’t realize I walked out there without looking around first. Fuck! I’m slacking! It’s definitely time to leave.

Walking back into the cafe I hear the handsome man at the counter waiting to pay his bill. He’s the last customer of the night.

I’ve gotten used to him staying literally until I lock the doors. I’m not sure where he goes as I’m locking up but by the time I turn around he’s nowhere to be seen. Almost like a ghost disappearing into thin air.

“Keep the change Raven.” His deep accented voice says as he lays a twenty on the counter.

“Well, that’s not fair.” I say.

“What?” He stops to ask. I really expected him to do like any other time that I’ve tried to talk to him.

“You know my name but I don’t know yours. I think that’s not really fair considering you give me a nineteen dollar tip every single time you come in here.” I look him straight in the eye and hold my breath waiting for him to say something else.

“Gio.” He says.

“Joe? Your name is Joe?” That name just doesn’t go with this man.

“No. Gio. It’s short for Giovanni.” He answers, holding the door open for me as we walk out, turning off the lights.