13: r****t EyesMelissa knocked on Starr’s door in the two-four-two rhythm and waited in the night’s cool breeze.
The door creaked open, and Starr eyed her. “Are you here for a place to stay, or do you need something … more?”
“Was hoping for just one more night here. I’ll be staying with my uncle tomorrow.”
Starr nodded once and stepped aside to let Melissa enter.
“Hey, chickee,” Laura said from the sleeping bag. “You’re here early.”
Melissa adjusted her backpack on her shoulder. “Was hoping to hang out one last time before I permanently stay with my uncle.” She heard the toilet flush from behind the closed bathroom door and raised an eyebrow.
“Remember. This place is always open for anyone who needs a safe place,” Starr said, sensing Melissa’s inquiry.
A woman in her twenties exited
