Darcy had become very disillusioned with life in the city. She just couldn’t get a decent break. She fed her last coin into the dryer and looked at the clock on the wall. It would soon be time to get back to the boat, before someone else commandeered it.

Part 27

The launderette door opened and a young man entered. As Darcy looked up, he caught her eye. She smiled back. They chatted for a while and he told her his name was Bruno. He had a straggly beard and long brown hair tied at the back. His voice was soft and held a slight accent.

When the laundry was dry, Darcy helped Bruno to fold his things. Then they went for a cup of coffee at a nearby coffee house and sat in a window seat. Darcy was reminded of the day she arrived in the city although, of course, this was much nicer compared to that seedy cafe.

A friendly face, a gentle smile

A fledgling’s ruffled feathers charmed

To feel that she can be herself

With no decry, her shield’s disarmed  

Instinctively his warmth’s embraced

She hopes her trust is not misplaced

Over coffee, they talked and laughed, and listening to some of her tales of the people Darcy had met, since arriving in the city, Bruno discovered how she was living.

When they had finished their second cup, Bruno asked her if she would be prepared to work in return for room and board.  Darcy was sceptical. She had met girls that did that kind of thing and she wasn’t at all sure she could bring herself to that level.

Seeing her frown, Bruno suggested she come by his place tomorrow and see for herself. There were no strings attached, and she could bring someone with her if she was concerned, so Darcy agreed.

Dusk crept in and vagrants claimed

Whilst focus tended new idea

This time she’s left it far too late

To save her bed down by the pier

With safe place gone, she’s on the street

Her blanket wrapped around her feet

Thoughts turn back to gentle voice

And poignant opportunity

As night’s damp air seeps into cloth

The mind seeps into reverie

Forceful visions fill her head

Of sleeping in a ‘proper bed!’

Darcy pulled the blanket around her more tightly. Tomorrow she would go to this place and see what happened.