The phone glowed lightly as night set over the city, screen unmoving. Texts went unanswered for the past few hours. Hope began to dwindle, promises seeming to have never really mattered in the first place.

As the people shuffled onto the bus and out of the light drizzle that had begun, most of them seemed happy enough. Tired, perhaps, but ready. Eager to escape the crime-riddled city. Perhaps they were trading one horrible life for another, but for now, there was hope. A hope that California, or wherever else they got off in between here and there, would be better.

The doors began to close when a voice called out. Victor quickly jumped on, eyes scanning down the aisles. He let out a breath once his eyes met theirs. Murmuring stuttered apologies, he pushed through the crowded bus and took his spot beside them.

“I’m sorry I’m la-late,” he spoke softly.