Security

Written https://fivedotoh.com/2023/03/21/fandangos-story-starter-89/

The warm, golden glow of the streetlight outside her bedroom window gave Marilou the illusion of security. Yet, she was a prisoner too, unable to step foot outside her flat. She tried, so many times. Stood in the doorway, hands around her waist, hugging herself, before climbing the wooden stairs, back to safety.

She often watched the world, its inhabitants not even aware she existed. One person, one friend, never stopped visiting. A trip, just two doors from her home, the golden glow of the restaurant. All she had to do was trust her, know nothing bad could happen if she stepped out of her door.

‘It’s okay, I’m with you,’ Masie said, holding her hand. ‘We will be back in half an hour, I promise. It has been two years, since losing your husband. He would want you to celebrate your birthday.’

‘I could go next week, I mean, we can order take away.’

‘It has to be today, besides, I with you all the way.’

‘But I’m not dressed for dinner.’

‘I love the jeans and shirt look, besides, it’s all the fashion.’

A hint of a smile, she pulled her jacket around her shoulders. ‘Thank you.’ One tiny step, then two, she was outside. The rain, light on her face, she smiled.