Chapter 11

Sandra wandered through the streets of New York, strolling along the sidewalks and curiously peeking into every shop she passed.

A newsstand drew her gaze. Plastered on the front page of a gossip tabloid was the face of her well-known neighbor, paired with another photo of him holding a bouquet of flowers. She skimmed through the article in silence, her only response a faint bewilderment at how something as ordinary as buying flowers could be turned into news.

Placing the paper back where it belonged, she continued walking until she stopped in front of a familiar coffee shop, the same place where she’d first met up with Jessica upon arriving in the city.

A “Wanted Helper” sign was posted at the entrance. Peering through the window, she saw that, just like before, it was empty of customers. Only the elderly man and the plump waitress were there, their faces looking bored and gloomy.

She continued walking until she came across a large shopping mall. On a whim, she decided to go inside.