After more than two days of relentless travel and hiding, Bella found herself in Dallas, Texas. The decision to choose Texas was a strategic one—geographically distant from her family and based on the availability of departing buses. The journey had left her feeling dirty, smelly, hungry, and emotionally drained. When the bus finally pulled into Dallas, the midday sun beat down on her, signalling a reprieve from the confines of her seat.
Dragging her backpack behind her, Bella made her way to a nearby cheap diner. The sign flickered, and the scent of greasy food wafted through the air. The bell above the door jingled as she entered, drawing the attention of the few patrons scattered across the worn-out booths.
Seated at a corner table, Bella ordered a simple meal—soup and a cheese sandwi
