She glanced down at her nicotine stained fingers and chewed off nails.  Her long slender fingers cracked and chapped from the constant abuse of her dreary existence.  She let out a low bitter cackle; nineteen years old and her hands looked as if they were forty.  Well at least they get the job done, she thought as she pulled her hoodie up over her head.  She pushed her body against the cold brick, and slid to the dirty soil below the overpass.  She pulled her knees into her chest and prepared for another few hours of sleep.  Dawn had overtaken the city, so for now her job was done, and she needed some rest before searching for her best friend Clive.  She was bone weary so sleep came quickly, but never too deep that her keen senses wouldnt keep aware.

Clive:  HeyShane!  Wake upI have news!  Clive jogged toward the young girl.  He thought of how much she changed in a few short years.  Her body always had a boyish look, but the way she looked now almost made him forget she really wasnt another ***** turning tricks.  Almost he thoughtgod she would have mad a great *****!  He tip-toed toward her with a wicked grin on his face intending on startling her.

Shane:  I know youre there she stated matter-of-factly without even glancing up.  Where ya been man, I havent seen you for a few days she looked up at her best friend.  His light hair fell slightly in his eyes, and he pushed it away giving her a sheepish grin.  She gave him a once over and noticed how much cleaner he looked than their last encounter.  I see youve been at the shelter.  She spat out, she hated that place; too many questions, and too much attention. 

Clive:  Nonot quite.  His smile faded and set down beside her.

Shane:  So spill it already she chided herself for sounding too anxious, but she couldnt help but think that maybe Clive had found them a good place to get their ***** together.  They always talked about how that they would get off the streets together, and she was getting her hopes up.

Clive:  Welllike I said I have news!  He wrapped her into a hug, and she let her head fall on his chest.  His heart was beating fast, and he knew that he had to say it now or never.  My moms hereshe is letting me come home he rushed his words, wanting to get it all out before Shane had time to react.  Were leaving in a couple hours; she said she wants me home ShaneIsnt that great?  He couldnt help but grin from ear to ear.