I walk up the narrow street. Beside me tower grey cement walls that seem to push me from either side. I hate cement, I really do. It seems to pollute every corner of this stinking place. Stepping out of the alley into the open, busy streets, I find I can breathe again; that is, breathe in the noxious fumes from the myriads of cars and trucks rattling along noisily in front of me. Ah, what a wonderful place, the city...

Callie's school is thirty minutes away and the perfect length for an afternoon walk. The autumn leaves are just beginning to fall. I contemplate their bright colors as I slide in and out of the stuffy crowds. Red, yellow, orange... Born only to shrivel up, die and be stepped on by countless people, most of whom are unconscious of doing so.

A school bell rings in the distance. Callie's school bell. I quicken my pace.