“I’m scared.” She says.

“Did something happen?”

“Something about Mr. Sanchez not working so they are putting us in a group home.”

Shane mutters a silent ‘fuck’ to herself when she hears ‘group home’. She can hear the tremble of fear in Bianca’s voice.

“When are they moving you?” Shane tries to keep it together.

“Today. I don’t want to go Shane, I like it here.” Bianca sniffles and Shane knows she’s crying.

“Today? Does Tina know?”

“I don’t know. They told us last night. They wouldn’t let me call you, I tried.”

“It’s ok. I’m glad you called now. They don’t know your on the phone, do they?”

“No.”

“Bianca, I don’t want you to get into trouble for calling me.”

“I don’t care.” She tries to sound tough through her tears.

“Listen, I’m going to call Tina and see what she can find out. I’ll find you ok? Don’t worry!” Shane’s voice is firm yet reassuring.

“Ok.”

“She’ll know what to do.”

“Ok.” Bianca’s voice sounds small and defeated.

“I’m so sorry B, I know what it’s like. Try not to be scared because we’re going to figure this out.” Shane almost kicks herself for making such a promise. She knows there is nothing she can do.

“I gotta go, she’s coming.”

The line goes dead. Shane flips her phone closed and stares at it as tears fill her eyes.

“Fuck.” She says quietly as she rubs her face.

Harper watches silently for a moment before speaking. “Why are they yanking her?”

“Because the Dad’s been unemployed for two months.” Shane tosses her phone into the pillow. “I hate the fucking system! Fuck! What am I going to do?!”

“The only thing you can. Be there for her.” Harper knows it’s not what Shane wants to hear, even though it’s true.

Shane spends the better part of the morning pacing around the house talking to Tina. Tina uses her connections to find out where Bianca and her brother are being placed.

“Listen Shane, I know you’re worried about her but there’s nothing you can do right now. I know this place and it’s actually one of the best.” Tina tries her best to reassure her.

“I want to see her.” Shane’s voice has an edge to it that no one’s ever heard before.