The girl quietly approaches you, asking you for some money so she can feed herself. She knows her beauty and stands tall, raising her arms above her head, pretending to tie her hair, as she waits for your answer
You don't look poor on your face, why would you ask for something like this?
She looks at you confused before deciding to ignore your insinuation and simply say "Sir, please...I'm really hungry. Anything would help..." her cheeks flush a soft pink as she continues to beg with her voice full of hope.
I looked at her in confusion and said, "If I haven't had dinner yet, would you accept my invitation to a restaurant near here that serves delicious food?" (I said to myself, "This suggestion is better than her hair ruining her condition.")
The girl looks at you with surprise, blinking several times before replying softly, "Are...are you sure? That's so kind of you! I...I'd love to!" Her face lights up and she can't hide the gratitude in her voice.
Seriously, I said cheerfully, who would miss a girl with your elegance? Haha
The girl blushes harder, struggling to hide her amusement at your comment as she follows you to the restaurant. As they seat her, she can't help but marvel at the comfort and warmth of the place - it's been so long since she'd eaten in a proper setting like this. Gently wringing her hands together beneath the table, she waits nervously for the food to arrive, wondering how such kindness could ever be extended to someone like her.
By the way, my name is Ben. I work for a company near here. I am 23 years old. What about you? Tell me your age and your name, etc.
As she continues to eat the delicious food, she feels more comfortable around you. Her eyes sparkle with warmth as they meet yours and she finally replies, "Thank you for inviting me, Ben...My name is Homeless Girl." She pauses, considering her answer before adding, "I'm 20 years old...it's been a few years since I had a real home. I was separated from my family during a flood." The words spill out of her easily now that she feels safe and comfortable in your presence.
Okay, no offense, but your name is a bit long. How about I call you Sally?
Sally thinks the name suits her and finds it oddly refreshing to have a new identity, even if just for this one night. She grins at you, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you...for giving me that name."
After we finished our food I said, "So tell me, ask where you live."
Sally hesitates, unsure if she should reveal her secret location. She glances around the restaurant, searching for a way to change the subject before giving in and replying softly, "It's...not much of a home. Just an old storage unit near the docks."
The thought of sharing that piece of information fills her with unease but also makes it easier to accept your continued kindness. There's something about Ben that feels different from the others she's met on the streets; perhaps he sees beyond her current situation and into who she truly is.
What! How on earth does a girl like you live in a place like this? Aren't you afraid of harassers?
Sally shakes her head, her expression solemn. "I've had to learn to be tough...and I try to stay hidden as much as possible." She takes a deep breath, mustering courage before continuing, "But things have been getting worse lately...the area around the docks is changing, and not for the better." Her voice trembles slightly at the end of her sentence.
Sally looks down at her plate, swallowing hard. "I'm...I'm afraid I don't know what to do." She darts another shy glance in your direction, hoping that you might offer some advice or words of comfort. The light in her eyes grows brighter as she finds herself drawn to you, grateful for this brief escape from the harsh realities of life on the streets.
It seems you are quite lonely, listen I have an offer for you I live alone a block away and I am bored I don't have many friends my clothes are all messed up and the dishes are dirty how about you stay with me and take care of the house for a fee but not a lot my salary is limited but it is good I think?
Sally considers your offer carefully. The thought of having a safe place to stay, even if it means taking care of someone else's housework, is incredibly tempting. She looks into your eyes and sees sincerity there; something she hasn't encountered much during her time on the streets. Taking a deep breath, she finally nods slowly, "Alright...I'll do it." There's relief in her voice as she makes this decision - an unexpected turn of events that leaves her feeling hopeful for the future, if only for now.
She flashes you a grateful smile before adding quietly, "Thank you, Ben..."
What are you thanking me for? Aren't we friends? I got up and told her, "Come on, take a break today. Take a shower and sleep well. Tomorrow you have a busy day. You have to get used to living with someone like me."
As they exit the restaurant and walk back to Ben's place, Sally can't help but feel a newfound sense of purpose. Despite her initial hesitation, she's grateful for this chance at stability - even if it means living with someone else for now. Her heart swells with hope as she imagines herself making a real difference in Ben's life by taking care of his home and perhaps becoming more than just a temporary solution to his loneliness.
Steeling herself against any potential discomfort or awkwardness, Sally resolves to prove her worth and earn her place among those who have known true comfort and safety all their lives.