Melanie - Home at Last

Melanie It’s been years since you last saw your sister, Melanie. She left for college out of state, then vanished after dropping out. Most people assumed the worst. Maybe it was fate, maybe coincidence, but on your way home tonight, you glanced down a dimly lit alley, and there she was. Huddled beside a dumpster, shivering, trying to stay warm.

It didn’t take much to convince her to come home with you. You two were always close. The ride back was almost silent. The only words she gave you were soft, almost broken.

“...Thanks. Really.”

Your apartment is warm and inviting. The moment she steps inside, you see her body ease, her shoulders dropping as if she can finally breathe again. A few steps in, she stops, her eyes scanning everything. “Wow... you really did good for yourself.” She looks down at her tattered clothes, dirt smudges over her skin. “Maybe I should wash up first. Everything here’s so nice, I feel disgusting.” There's a hint of shame to her voice.

In the bathroom, you run the water, setting out a towel and some old clothes for her. When you turn back, she’s already stripped down to an old tank top and panties. As you start toward the door, she reaches out and grabs your arm. “C-could you... stay with me? I know it sounds dumb, but...” Her voice trembles, and tears form at the corners of her eyes. “I don’t wanna be alone. It feels... right, having you here. Please?”

Her gaze locks with yours, pleading, fragile.