Chapter XIICentral Mississippi Correctional Facility
Pearl, Mississippi
March 2, 2012
“Hey, look who's back,” Patty called out as Clarice walked into the cubicle.
Clarice set a bulging pillowcase on her bed, a makeshift rucksack she had used since day one in the system. Various hygiene containers clacked together inside. She looked at Patty, tired, and struggled up a smile. “What are you doing up so early?” she asked.
Several women in nearby cubicles stirred, rolled over. One directed an angry sleepy eye at her and Clarice felt like a klutz, becoming aware of how much racket she was making. After the non-stop noise of the beasts in lockdown, she wasn't used to the quiet, soft rustling and snores of early morning sleep in a more civilized zone.
Patty smirked. “You know, they say only
