Ethan makes it to the pub, the manager waiting for him. The manager escorts him round the back, in a private room. 

Manager: “Name ?”

“Ethan” 

Manager: “Age ?” 

“17”

Manager: “Any work experience ?”

Ethan: “No.” 

Manager: “Okay. Why do you want this job ?” 

Ethan: “I technically became homeless last night and need to make a living for myself.” 

Manager: “..Technically ?”

Ethan: “There’s a lot of family issues at home, and we no longer have a house. So I’m staying at someone’s house for now.” 

Manager: “Where are your parents ? Isn’t it their responsibility to look after you ?” 

Ethan: “My dad isn’t with us anymore and my mum……is in prison” the last 3 words he said quieter, looking at the ground. 

Manager: “I apologise. Why do you think you’d be good for this job ? Keep in mind you’ll be cleaning, taking orders and serving people their orders.” 

Ethan: “I used to clean the house all the time. I haven’t had experience in taking orders though.” 

Manager: “What day is it today….Friday isn’t it ? You can start work tomorrow. I assume you don’t have money for a uniform ?”

Ethan: “What would the uniform be ?”

Manager: “Shirt and trousers. Preferably a black shirt with black trousers and black shoes, but for now you can wear your school uniform without the tie.” 

Ethan: “Okay. I’ll try get uniform as soon as I can.” 

The manager shoots him a friendly smile “I’ll see you tomorrow. Your shift starts at 8am and you finish at 12pm.” 

Ethan nods, leaves and can finally let out his happiness. He’s the happiest he has ever been in years. The feeling was amazing ! He’s actually starting to see his life get better and it’s all thanks to Jack. 

What would of happened if he never opened up to Jack ? If he decided to continue to deal with his mum for another year. Would he be alive right now ? Ethan shivers just thinking about it. 

He pushes all the thoughts away. I should be thinking of the good things in life, no what ifs. No thinking about negative pasts all the time.