Walking through the woods behind my house during late fall is the only time when I can really, actually think. With the creek almost empty from the long summer drought, and the leaves turning rich hues of amber, orange, and yellow while the sun streams through the leafy canopy; there is nothing more peaceful. But this year, I can only think of one thing…Anna. She was my best friend since kindergarten when she tried to shove me off of the junglegym, and we’ve been inseperable ever since. But recently, she started becoming withdrawn and quiet. From extrovert to introvert within a matter of weeks.
We all thought he’d been abusing her, but she never said anything. She’s never been the kind to stick up for herself. Finally, about 4 days ago, she snapped. He was screaming at her for being lazy because she forgot to return a movie to the videostore. She got up, and she did something that I will never forget. She looked him straight in the eyes and said, “Shut up.” Then she turned and left, not looking back.