THREE YEARS LATER…
The diner buzzed with the usual chaos of the evening rush. Plates clattered, conversations blurred into a low hum, and the aroma of greasy food filled the air. But amidst the noise, my focus was sharp, honed in on keeping up with orders and ensuring the tips were enough to make it through another week.
I wiped my brow, mentally calculating how much more I needed to make to buy new shoes for Calix.
"Amira!"
The shrill, demanding voice cut through the air like nails on a chalkboard, sending a shiver down my spine. I didn’t even need to look to know who it was. Billy Joe.
I took a deep breath and turned slowly, forcing my expression into neutrality. There he was, the usual sleazy grin plastered on his round, sweaty face. He sat in his usual corner booth, his bulk spi
