After a few days, they’d fallen into a routine. Where Theodessa would be sleeping or walking to school, she met up with Midnight America before school, ready to take on the world. After classes, where Theodessa would be crying in the bathroom, she was sitting through a loud conversation dictated by Deral and Carlet. Theodessa would also get a heads-up about guests at lunch so she would know what plans to commit to. After school, they met at the back of the school, where the city was theirs to explore. 

She hadn’t realized how much she clung to them until she caught herself rereading messages or listening to their music just to hear their voices. 

Theodessa learned Fridays were days they played at the cafe. Their main income. 

Theodessa looked out the window, looking up at the gathering clouds, whispering rain. She hoped she could sleep through the rain, pittering and pattering without timing or rhythm. A constant noise that never quieted. And the thunder that would drive her insane 

In the cafe, a friendly face greeted them. With a gap between his front teeth and a dimpled grin, clasping his hands in a warm gesture.

“I heard you have been bringing a friend lately, but I didn’t expect you to bring her today.” His voice is high pitched, with an accent Theodessa can’t place. 

“Why not let her see how awesome we are?”

The man laughed before introducing himself to Theodessa. “I’m Alli, the owner of the cafe.” 

Theodessa smiled, introducing herself. 

“While you two get acquainted,” Lex said. “We’re going to get set up.”

Alli nods.“Of course, of course. Take all the time you need.”

Deral laughed. “You know we’re timed as soon as we start playing. Not the time it takes to set up.”

Ali smiles. Theodessa can’t. They were being timed too. Only this time for something they wanted to do. She looked out the window, the chain around her neck tightening. Reminding her, she had to return home and have hours stripped from her. 

“Are you okay?” Alli’s voice startled Theodessa.

She nodded, forcing her lips into a smile.

Alli only nodded and led Theodessa to the table closest to the performance. Theodessa was sure the farther, the better when it came to their loud music, but she didn’t complain. 

“My daughter saw you play the other day,” Alli said. “She said your skills brought a few customers back.”