Disclaimer: I do not own the characters. These characters belong to Richard O'Brien.
This is kind of a mini-fic. It was the start of a plot bunny, which has developed into "Columbia's Story". I just thought I'd post this, so people can read how it originally started.
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Sure is cold tonight, thought Columbia. It was her third night on the street and it wasn't getting any easier. She pulled her legs in close to her body, trying to keep them somewhat warm. A tear rolled down her cheek; it felt hot on her skin. Why am I doing this to myself? Her mind wandered over the events of the past few days.
Columbia was as happy as she ever could be, or so she seemed. It was always hard to tell with her. In truth, she was greatly depressed over her parents' marital problems. All she wanted to do was dance and get away from her home. She couldn't stand being around when they were arguing over every little thing that came along. They would often argue about her, which made her feel worse and worse.
Eventually, Columbia became fed up with all the torment her parents caused her. She grabbed her purse and headed out into the night in a huff. She wasn't sure where she was going or how; she just knew she had to get out of the place she used to call home.
Another tear made its way down Columbia's tender cheek. It was their fault I left, she thought, as if putting blame on anyone would make her feel any better. It hadn't comforted her yet, and it was never likely to.
The past few nights had been hell, and this night definitely had the potential to be worse. Although she was between two buildings and somewhat protected from the wind, the sting of the cold was becoming too much for her. The temperature was dropping, and Columbia had lost her small jacket during the day. She finally decided that if she didn't get up and move, she would freeze where she was.
Columbia wandered off down the dim street. Even with the street lamps working overtime, dismal amounts of light ever reached the sidewalks. There were very few cars out at that time of night, even in downtown Denton. There were even fewer people on the street, save the bums and the beggars. Oh Goddess, I've become a bum, she thought, cringing in disbelief.
The warm glow of the Denton Diner on the edge of town was getting closer. A brief smile of relief crossed Columbia's face, but quickly disappeared as the wind blew past her. She shivered as she entered the building, quickly making her way to a booth hoping not to be recognized. The waitress came over to the booth that Columbia had chosen, handed her a menu, and turned back towards the kitchen.
Columbia looked over the menu eagerly. She started comparing the prices to the money she had with her. Well, there's not too much I can get, she thought. She ordered a burger and fries. She waited with much anticipation; I hope it doesn't take too long.