The Artful Twist

3.

Oliver opened his eyes and heard complete silence. With a heavy head and partially closed eyes he ran to the top of the staircase. Making sure nobody was in sight he made a dash for the front door. He made it in time with his ripped clothes attached to the door handle he panicked. Pulling away from the door, Oliver was unaware of the blood trickling down his arm.
Oliver became tired very quickly into his journey. In all honesty Oliver didn't know where he was going. He just knew he was going. He rested his head against a wall and found himself sliding down it. Oliver thought about running again, but before he stood up he was back on the floor. A rarity was officers, surprisingly one saw Oliver. He had good intentions to ensure Oliver was alright but Oliver wasn't having it. 'Lad are yer alright?'

Oliver ran.
'I was just'
He turned the corner.
Oliver's breathes triggered the tears that fell to his cheeks. His tears came easily. Shocking he has any to spare. Oliver's legs became stiff and feet began to tingle. Oliver turned the corner and fell into the arms of a stranger. 'Watch out mate' The boys look of anger washed away and became a shy grin. 'You've got to be careful here...you'll end up hurting yourself' The young boy helped Oliver to his feet and struggled to bring his gaze away from Oliver's eyes. 'Sorry...about that...?'
'Artful Dodger'
'Really'
'You can call me Charlie'
Charlie patted Oliver's shoulder but removed his hand immediately taking two steps back. He turned his head to almost hide his entire face. Which at this point is red. Charlie scratched the back of his head and asked Oliver whereabouts he was going. Oliver admitted he wasn't sure. Oliver smiled and fiddled with his thumbs. 'I'm sure you've got places to be, sorry to bother you' He didn't want to, but he started to walk away. 'No, you're not' He became thoughtful 'Come with me'