Laura Raquel

I watch the shadows change dark to grey and then finally yellow as the sun sets. It’s no use. I don’t want to try any more. I will never fit in. That was proven at dinner. I have no grace and my manners surely don’t match those of my cousins. I know my Aunt is trying. She even gave me this grand room. The furniture is swathed in colors and textures I’ve never seen before. Velvet is in abundance. But there’s one thing I want more than anything else.

My old life.

I can’t help but feel stifled here. The one thing my Aunt got right was the birdcage near the window. I know she meant well, giving me a pet to call my own. But I can’t help imagining my life parallel with the sparrow. I too am captured in an elaborate cage with a view of freedom, but with no means to escape.