A/N

Had this idea floating around in my head for a while. I have heaps more ideas for this so let me know what you all think and if I should continue with this story.

Also I haven't forgotten about "On The Edge" I just lost my muse for a while but I should be back with an update soon.

Enjoy!

Chapter 1

I had been in the group home for the last 6 months. After I got out of juvie I knew I wouldn't find a new family. I had resigned myself to the fact that I would age of out the system. It was the most comforting yet terrifying thought.

I mean I couldn't wait to be out of the system. Living my own life.

Doing whatever I wanted with no one looking over me.

Yet it was the point of no return. I would have no one and nothing. No family to call my own. No mother to call when I had hard day. No siblings to laugh with. Nothing.

I hear people moving around to go get breakfast but I don't see the point. I finished getting dressed for work and headed out the door. I was the only one with a job. I officially dropped out of school 6 months ago when I first got out of juvie. Not that it was a turning point I just realized that it would take too much effort to try and catch up, getting a job would be better and it had been paying off.

Soon I would be able to apply for independent living and would be able to have my own space. I had some savings and would soon be able to get my license and afford my first car.

I pulled my hoody over my head and started walking to work. I put my hand into the pockets and felt my fingers slip over the small metal case. I pulled it out and opened it. There were 3 cigarettes left and a small rolled joint. I took the joint and lit it. I usually refused to smoke in the morning but there was something different about today. I didn't know what it was but it was different and I needed to take the edge off.

I was almost at work and I seen a lady and someone who must have been her daughter out the front of the coffee house. They were laughing and smiling together.

In that instant I was angry. I didn't understand it but I could feel it flowing through my veins. What did I ever do so wrong that I couldn't have that? I turn around and punch the brick wall behind me. I looked down at my hand. My knuckles where red and had a few spots of blood on them but it didn't really hurt.

I walked around the building and went in the back door. I changed my clothes into the uniform that we were required to wear. I tied the apron around my waist, punched my time card and headed into the front of the shop. I took my place at the register and plastered on a fake smile and looked up to greet my first customers.

The mother and daughter.

Fuck.

My smile falters a bit but I regain control within seconds.

"Welcome to 'The Steam Room' how can I help you today?"

They ordered and I started making their order. I kept looking at the woman and the affection that was clear for her daughter. I did my best to shake it off and focus on what I was doing. Finishing the order I handed it too them and they thanked me and left. Releasing the breath I hadn't realized I was holding I let my shoulders slump. This was going to be a long day.

Just after the lunchtime rush I took a break and went out the back and lit a cigarette. I don't know why I started smoking but it helps calm me. I only have a few each day but it's enough. I closed my eyes and leant my head against the back wall.

"You look a bit young to be smoking."

My eyes snap open to see a blonde cop standing there. She looks at me for a moment and her eyes feel like they are staring into my soul. Like she is seeing all my struggles all at once.

"My names Stef." She says holding out her hand.

"Callie." I tell her my name but I don't shake her hand.

"Have a nice day Callie."