33. Kate

I sacrificed a full day of lessons to get that place organised, but it was worth it. Every part of me ached as I scrubbed the full room. Big enough to house six, its rusted bunk beds, whilst not shining, were at least clean and germ-free. There were no broken windows at least, just the busted door lock. Even so I slept like a log.

A run seemed the best way to start off this new phase. At least I could artificially boost my mood by getting out into the wilderness before the sun made it unbearably hot. In just my black sports bra and black fitted shorts I tied the door shut with some string and set off.

Like a misty morning’s fog burning off to reveal the blue sky above, my mind cleared. Every kilometre I felt braver, more like myself. This whole thing was a temporary setback. I can run to the nearest town from here, I’ll be able to get a job. Maybe Rhett will be able to lend me a bicycle.

I turned from the path into one of the surrounding orchards. Following the strict straightly pl