13

Jen

    Her hand shook, backpack in one hand and crow on her shoulder. She had named him 13. He seemed to be focused on the doorbell just like Lore. She had been kicked from nearby homeless shelters because 13 was so aggressive. He had bonded with her quickly, but had been such a problem with others. Her finger landed on the button as she sighed. Jen had birds, she must know how bad Lore's situation was. She could help. Jen had been good high school and college friends with Lore, and stayed in college. She had a high paying job. It was easy to tell just looking at her house. It wasn't massive by any means, but it was beautiful. Lawn and bushes looked luxurious, white and black exterior popped. Even her doorbell was fancy with gold lining. Lore felt embarrassed and almost turned away from the door just to avoid the experience, but 13 quickly pecked the doorbell. Lore frowned, even the doorbell sounded fancy. Clacking could be heard from inside the house and the door opened.
"Lore! Wow, it's been so long, I've missed you so much!" Jen exclaimed, her voice cheery. She looked amazing.
"Jen! I wish I could have seen you sooner, but I couldn't find you." Lore said with a sad chuckle. "How have you been?" Asked Lore.
"Oh, come in already! And what a petty bird." Jen said, 13 puffing his chest out proudly. "Oh, I've just been doing great. Could you put your shoes by the door?" Said Jen, stopping Lore at a mat. Lore's shoes had been through a lot. It was understandable to not want them in a fancy, clean house. She looked around the house.
"Wow Jen, this is amazing."
"Oh, it took ages to pay off. Worth it if you ask me."
For sure. It's like a pocket mansion." Lore said, laughing as she sat down. 13 sat on a perch conveniently placed by a white couch.
"So, I saw your text and I've already prepared a room for you and your bird. He's so pretty!"
"Thank you Jen, you're so sweet. And yes, he's a pretty boy."
Jen led Lore to a semi large room with 1/3 of it being taken up by toys and perches. It was already late in the evening, and Lore hadn't slept in days. Security guards forced the homeless to get off of benches. 13 snuggled up into a nest-like box and quickly fell asleep as Lore collapsed on the bed.

(End of part 1; Jen)