Nowhere to Turn

Brenda stepped onto the front porch, pulling her silk robe tight against the biting winter chill. Her gaze dropped to the scuffed suitcase resting by Cleo’s worn shoes, and her face soured instantly.

"Uncle Roland, Aunt Brenda, can I stay here for a few days? I’ll move out immediately once I get a job." Cleo pleaded, keeping her chin up and putting on a brave face.

Brenda pursed her lips into a