10,000 Paper Cranes

Only 2 more cranes until she could finally have a wish.

Arria breathlessly, stepped out onto the balcony, gazing around at the twinkling stars surrounding her, waiting for her to fold as the biting cold stung at her bare legs, which were uncovered by her flimsy nightgown.

"NO, NO NO!" Arria screamed out into the night. Her own voice seemed so distant, as if she was submerged underwater. "No..." Her voice broke, and Arria felt something vital inside her break.

****

Arria is beyond lonely. No one knows she exists. Sometimes she doubts her own existence. Every attempt in life she's ever made to be happy has failed miserably, so instead of breaking down and crying, Arria folds paper cranes during sleepless nights. Her one hope is that 10,000 paper cranes will grant her a single, life changing wish.