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like this. She wanted to puke it out of her, but she was well aware it was too late for that. Her head was blowing up, spinning, but if she could get to a bus stop she was home free. About a year ago, Lucy was without her own transportation and completely mastered the bus system. She slowed from her run to a speed walk until she got to a main road, and miraculously she tracked down a bus stop. After a few minutes of standing under the dimly lit bus sign, next to a thin Hispanic man, the bus finally arrived. She thought about jumping in front of it instead of getting on. How she made it back from there to the Sunset Vista Apartments was a complete blackout.

     
    When Benny’s set was over, Anne was there waiting for him with a giant grin. “You were so great,” she cheered while doing little mini claps with her hands. She had explained that Lucy left, but saw most of his time. She also told him that Lucy had apologized and said that Benny did a great job. He knew better. That didn’t sound like Lucy, and Anne was always trying to smooth things over.
    “Thanks, Anne,” he said modestly. “But I blew that bit about bosses.”
    Benny had insisted on them following each other home to be safe. He enjoyed taking on that big brother role since he didn’t have any sisters of his own, just brothers. Normally he would be going out to continue the laughs with his buddies, but he had to admit he was tired from all the apprehension of the night.
    Returning from the parking lot, Benny and Anne walked back to the apartment building. They talked and laughed about the show and hadn’t even noticed that they were about to step right on top of Lucy. There she was, lying on the ground a few feet away from the stairs.
    “Oh my God, Lucy!” Anne screeched as she ran and knelt down next to Lucy.
    Benny was right behind her and took a swift glance around to survey the situation. “Lucy!” He grasped her shoulders and shook them slightly to see if she would jar awake. The night air was cool and thick, and the full moon seemed to be providing the spotlight they needed.
    “Do you think she was attacked or mugged or something?” Anne looked desperately at Benny. She was not used to this type of situation. “Should we call 911?”
    “Hold on a second.” Benny checked her pulse and breathing. He was composed and acted as if he had experienced this many times before. “She’s breathing. Let’s see if we can get her conscious first.” He shook her again, only a bit harder this time. “Lucy, can you hear me? C’mon, Lucita, wake up!”
    “Benny! We’re wasting time.” Anne grabbed her purse and began searching hysterically for her cell phone. “I’m calling 911.”
    “Don’t make me kick your ass,” a slurred and quiet voice came from below. Lucy stirred slightly and groaned.
    Benny and Anne shook their heads and smiled at each other.
    “Lucy, you scared us,” Anne said. “Thank God you’re okay. I mean, are you okay?”
    “God…kill me now,” she moaned and rolled over to her side.
    “C’mon, girl, let’s get you inside.” Benny picked Lucy up like a new bride and carried her up the stairs to her apartment. “Anne, grab her purse.”
    “Got it,” she said, trying to sound helpful. She gathered up both purses and followed them up the stairs. Before reaching the top, Anne was able to find Lucy’s apartments keys to open the door.
    In Benny’s arms Lucy’s eyes were closed, but she spoke quietly. “I don’t need you, Benny. I don’t need anyone.” A tear rolled down her cheek and landed on Benny’s arm.
    “I know,” he whispered.

CHAPTER 7
     
    Six-year-old Carly Moore walked along the tiled hallway, carefully placing a foot in each one of the outlined squares as she went along. Her hair was brown and wavy, parted on the side. The longer side was pushed back with a bejeweled pink bobby pin. Her big, beautiful brown eyes appeared even larger with her stylish pink prescription glasses.
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