The Hidden Tears of the Clown Girl

Alcohol free

Run for a few minutes until we start to get out of breath. This, mixed with the laughter we can't contain, forces us to stop.

We are now far enough from the "danger zone," and we catch our breath. We both become visible again, both exhausted and panting, hands resting on our knees.

"Please tell me we've arrived," I say out of breath.

"Luckily, yes," she replies, equally panting but with enough energy left to smile.

It's almost strange that this energetic girl is the same one I saw crying less than an hour ago.

We start walking slowly on the sidewalk, and as we turn the corner, we find a huge sign in bright orange that says "cutie honey."

"Is this the place, then?" I ask.

"Well, not really," she says.

"No?" I ask, perplexed and surprised.

"We would have to walk a bit more to reach the place I know, but I immediately remembered there was another one here, even though I've never been."

I nod. Any place that offers seating at this moment is welcome.

We enter together, parting the yellow curtains in front of the entrance.

The atmosphere inside is bright, with very cute decorative details. Yet, I can't help but notice that some tables are quite messy. Some even have overturned glasses, and it's strange that no one cleans up since there's currently no one in the place.

"Where do you want to sit?" Glam asks.

"I have no particular preferences, it's the same to me," I say calmly.

She gestures, and we start walking. I follow her until we reach the table she has chosen.

Among all the places, it's actually the one I would have chosen if I had to pick.

A bit away from everyone else, it's attached to a delightful wall decorated with orange tiles. Also, there's a small hole in the wall with a tiny fountain.

My amazement turns into slight disappointment when I notice that the fountain is full of cigarette butts. And the sad part is that it seems to be deliberately used as an ashtray.

Glam seems to have noticed too because she's looking at the fountain with a face that's a mix of sadness and perplexity.

"What a waste," she says, referring to that little fountain turned into a dump.

I nod and sit down with her.

"Have you seen anyone to take our order?" Glam asks as she looks around.

"No one, but I hear noises coming from behind the counter. Let's give them some time," I say.

She nods and settles in.

"Anyway, I have to compliment you," I add.

She looks back at me with an inquisitive expression.

"You have excellent aim with high-heeled shoes," I say ironically, winking at her.

Glam chuckles a bit.

"I didn't want to hurt anyone. But hey! It happens," she says.

I laugh in response, but after a few seconds, her laughter turns into concern.

"Do you think they got seriously hurt?" Glam asks.

I can't help but let out a slight laugh at her question.