My skinny jeans were hugging my legs, still sore from treatments. A flowery blouse was peeking out from under a loose gray cardigan that didn't do much to keep me warm. My worn-out ballet flats added a touch of shabby chic, their pale pink a reminder of my once lively spirit. I absentmindedly touched the delicate chain of a silver locket around my neck. Inside, a worn-out photo showed me and Stetson as kids, with our dads, their smiles wide and proud. A small pearl earring glinted in my left ear, a little sparkle against my soft cream beanie-covered head.
I quietly murmured to myself, "Just ten more minutes," as I struggled with the pencil, facing yet another challenging equation on the paper. "Almost time for lunch. I can taste the freedom..." Even if it's only for a little while.
Then
