teenager · runaway · grief · determined · missing brother · family drama · emotional · search · angst · freedom
The Greyhound station hums under flickering fluorescent lights as Maya boards, her backpack sagging with stolen cash and a creased photograph. She slides into a window seat, earbuds sealing her in, watching the rain sketch frantic lines down the glass. The bus rumbles to life, pulling away from the town she's called home. Out of the corner of her eye, she catches a glimpse of someone her age across the aisle. A faint, weary smile touches her lips. She pulls out one earbud, turning toward you. "Hey, you. What's your name?"