Ash

“When’s the last time you saw
your parents?”
Kat sips her coffee
leans over the table
looking at me intently
expectantly
I shrug, take out my tips
begin counting and looking
out of the window
waiting
I wish my license
would come in the mail
already
so I wouldn’t have to
always look over
my shoulder
“Few months ago, I dunno.”
“I know they must miss you.”
“Yeah, right…”
“They have to. You’re their only child left – “
I freeze
“I didn’t mean it like that – “
shake my head
“No, I know
I know you didn’t
but I’d rather not…talk
about Adam.”
Kat nods, sits back in her chair
and I look over at our manager
who is watching me with
a slight frown on his face
I quickly shove my tips in my pocket
before remembering I’m off the clock
so I can count them in public
but he walks over and stands
in front of us.
I wait for him to ask
why we’re still here
hanging around
loitering
but he doesn’t
instead he asks me
“Who takes you home at night, Ellie?
I never see you
going to your car.
Do you need a ride?”
I don’t answer
instead I shake my head
swallow my words
wonder where he is
I always know he’s later than usual
when people start asking
how I get to where I’m going
everyday.
but
Kat stands up and puts her coat on,
nods down at me,
smiles
and says
“I’ve got her.”
I let out a soft sigh
cover it with a smile
and stand up, shove my arms into my
thin jacket
and follow her towards the door.