Motherless

A Trip to the Mall

Melody

"Okay, that's great. There's just some paperwork that you'll need to fill up.I filled out all the paperwork needed.

We left the station, stepping out into the crisp air. Lia stayed close to me, her grip on my hand less tight than before. I knew she felt safer now, and that was the most important thing. Whatever happened, I knew I had to be her rock, her constant in a world that had let her down. I wouldn't let her go through this alone. Not now, not ever.

After leaving the police station, Talia stayed quiet during the drive. I glanced over at her a few times, noticing how tightly her clothes fit. They were the same clothes from yesterday, freshly washed, but they didn't seem to fit her well anymore. I could tell she felt uncomfortable, tugging at the hem of her shirt to cover her stomach, and constantly adjusting her waistband.

"We're going to the mall," I said, breaking the silence. Talia didn't respond, just stared out the window, her fingers nervously picking at the edge of her seatbelt.

"I know you don't want me to buy you anything," I continued, trying to keep the conversation light, "but you need some new clothes that actually fit. You can't be walking around all day in tight, uncomfortable outfits, right?"

"I don't need new clothes," she said softly, almost as if she was afraid of inconveniencing me. "I can manage with what I have."

"Talia, you shouldn't have to manage," I said, my voice gentle but firm. "You deserve clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. Plus, it's not just about you—what if we end up needing to go out again? You can't wear the same outfit every day."

She glanced at me, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "But I don't want you to spend a lot on me," she said, her tone almost pleading.

"I won't spend more than I need to," I assured her. "We'll get what you need, nothing extravagant. Just enough to make sure you're comfortable and have a few options to choose from. Deal?"

She hesitated, then nodded. "Deal."

When we arrived at the mall, I could feel her reluctance as we walked through the entrance. She stuck close to me, like a shadow, her grip on my arm tightening as we passed through the crowded corridors. I knew this wasn't easy for her, so I tried to keep things light and playful, pointing out different stores and talking about the latest trends.

"How about we start with some basic items?" I suggested, leading her into a popular clothing store. "We can look at jeans, t-shirts, and maybe some hoodies. Sound good?"

"Okay," she replied, still clinging to my arm. I could tell she was feeling overwhelmed by the busy environment, so I took the lead, grabbing a variety of items to try on.

As we made our way to the fitting rooms, I noticed Talia's unease. She kept glancing around, as if expecting someone to jump out at her. I gently squeezed her hand, hoping to reassure her. "It's okay, Talia. We're just shopping. No one's going to bother us here."

She nodded but didn't seem entirely convinced. I handed her a couple of pairs of jeans and a few tops, guiding her towards a fitting room. "Try these on and see how they fit," I said. "I'll be right outside if you need anything."

After a few minutes, she emerged from the fitting room, wearing a pair of jeans that looked snug around her hips. "How do they feel?" I asked, trying to gauge her comfort level.

"They're a bit tight," she admitted, adjusting the waistband. "I think I need a size up."

"No problem," I said, quickly grabbing a larger size. "Try these." She nodded and returned to the fitting room, emerging a few moments later with a relieved expression. "These are better," she said, giving me a small smile.