Behind Closed Doors

one

Miro pushed open the heavy wooden door, stepping into the dimly lit bar. The familiar scent of stale beer and worn leather enveloped her, providing a fleeting sense of comfort. She slid onto a stool, her eyes scanning the rows of bottles lining the shelves.

The woman with short hair and a sharp facial expression greeted her with a nod. "Usual, Miro?"

She nodded, her gaze drifting to dance as she picked up the glass of whiskey.

As she sipped the liquor, Miro's thoughts began to wander. The stress of university life, the weight of her family's problems, and the pain she had been feeling deep in her heart all blended together which could make her head explode.

Miro's eyes roam around the bar, taking in the unfamiliar faces, but possibly have the same reason as Miro, why they are drowning themselves in liquor.

For a moment, she felt anonymous, lost in the crowd. But as she caught her reflection in the mirror behind the bar, Miro's gaze showed so much loneliness. The haunted look in her eyes was a harsh reminder that she will never be able to escape this place that has becom her home.

"Ghei." Miro almost fell from the stool when she turned to her. She gripped the counter to steady her body.

Ghei Castro has always been here. Every time that she enters this place, Ghei would always greet her with a nod.

"Should I help you out?" Ghei asked as she smiled at Miro while holding her shoulder to guide her.

"No, I just want to ask you a question." Miro's gaze drifted as she settled her eyes on Ghei.

"Have you ever thought of quitting this job and leaving this place?"

"That's a very hard question for me. But as soon as I know the answer, I'll tell you." Ghei gently tapped her shoulder as she offered her another glass of whiskey.

"I think that's enough, Miro. Let's go home." A voice from behind made them turn back.

"Jens, wheh yeur heur?" Miro slurred as her fingers were struggling to grasp the glass, but she forced herself to lift it up to her mouth.

The glass accidentally slipped out of her grip. The glass is slammed against the counter, and it breaks into pieces. Some pierce through Miro's skin. But due to the high consumption of alcohol, she failed to notice the broken glass on her skin.

"Miro!" Jens hurriedly went to her side and helped her down from the stool.

"She's bleeding."Ghei froze and wasn't able to move.

This already happened before; Ghei is traumatized by that.

"Don't worry, I will take care of her. Sorry for the mess. Here's the payment." Jens smiled as she put down the money on the counter.

"Jens," Miro whispered as she leaned closer to her and gripped her arms to steady her own body.

Jens put her arms around her waist, and she put Miro's hand above her shoulder.

Miro stumbled, and Jens struggled to help her.

"Man, be still." Jens guides her on their way out of the bar.

"Thanks, Jens," Miro murmured, her voice barely audible.

Miro and Jens have been friends since high school. Jens Robsel never judged Miro by her attitude before.

She first met Miro at the coffee shop; she won't forget about that day. She bumped into her, then Miro suddenly screamed at her and walked away. Jens was taken aback, but she quickly went after her. Then she saw Miro's body revolted. She bent forward, her stomach contents spilling onto the sidewalk.