The next day dawned slowly, the first rays of light sneaking through the curtains and casting long shadows across my room. I sat up, feeling the weight of the previous day's events settle over me. The card from the woman at the pool was still under my pillow, a small, tangible reminder that there were people out there who wanted to help. But for now, I had to face another day of school and the challenges that came with it.
I got dressed quickly, pulling on my uniform and grabbing my bag. The house was quiet, my parents having already left for work. I stepped into the hallway, the silence pressing down on me. My brother and cousin were likely still asleep, which was a small blessing. I slipped out the door and into the cool morning air, the sky a pale blue with the promise of a new day.
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