Page 39 - LIfesOuttakes7

I laughed, partly at her brazen attitude, partly at her misplaced use of certain profane words, and partly because she was right about how much I worked on it. “It does seem to need a lot of work, doesn’t it?” I agreed. “Why don’t you get a new one?” she asked. “I can’t afford it,” I replied. “I know a guy that will steal whatever *#&@ bike you want for only ten bucks,” she said. “Do you want me to talk to him for you?” “Well, that’s, uh, nice of you,” I replied, not knowing if that was quite the correct response, “but I think I will just keep this one.” “Your loss.” She stared at me curiously and intently, and it made me feel somewhat uncomfortable, so I turned back to work on my bike as I talked. “So, what’s your name?” “Emily.” “Where do you live?” I asked. “423 Elm Street.” I had to stifle my surprise. Elm Street was miles away through a really rough part of the city. 34