New Beginnings

As Ashley looked at Karen and John, she nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Okay," she said, her eyes searching for reassurance. As they finished their food, Ashley stood up, her worn-out clothes making soft rustling sounds as she moved. Karen paid the bill, and they headed outside, the warm sunlight a welcome change from the dimly lit diner. Karen checked her phone, her eyes scanning the screen before looking up at the group. "It's 2 pm," she said, her voice matter-of-fact. "We have three hours before we have to go back and sign the forms. Let's go shopping." Ashley walked along behind them, her feet aching as they came through her worn-out shoes. Emily, ever the curious one, turned around to face Ashley, her eyes sparkling with interest. "How old are you?" Emily asked, her voice full of excitement. Ashley hesitated, her eyes dropping to the ground before responding quietly, "16." The group walked in silence for a moment, the only sound being the rustling of leaves and the chatter of people on the street. Emily's eyes widened in surprise. "Wow," she said, her tone full of awe. Ben, not one to be left out, chimed in, his questions tumbling out in rapid succession. "Where are your mommy and daddy? Do you have brothers and sisters?" Ashley looked at Karen, hoping she would intervene and say something to the children. But Karen just smiled and kept walking, her eyes fixed on the storefronts ahead. As they turned a corner, a clothes shop came into view. Karen pulled Ashley gently, her voice soft but firm. "Let's go get you some sneakers and clothes to begin with. This way, with me." Ashley followed Karen into the shop, the bell above the door jingling as they entered. The store was filled with racks of colorful clothes and shelves stacked high with shoes. Ashley's eyes widened as she took in the sight, feeling a sense of excitement and nervousness wash over her. What would she find in this new life? And how would she fit in?