The streetlights flickered, and the night air pierced her skin. Vania walked alone, crossing the empty sidewalk. The sound of her footsteps echoed, bouncing off the walls of vacant buildings. In her hand was only a small purse, but her mind and heart felt heavier than anything she carried.

Why am I still here? she thought repeatedly. Why haven’t I left all of this behind yet?

Suddenly, from the end of the street, two men appeared. Their faces were mostly covered by hoodies, and their steps slowed as they neared her.

“Hey… you look pretty, walking alone at night,” one of them said, his voice raspy.

Vania tensed up, quickening...