It was an early morning, the sun was just rising. It was also a Wednesday, Gray was aware of that much. But, other than the day and time of day, Gray didn't really remember much else. She pulled her thin spring jacket over her tired, bruised frame, itching the scar on her shoulder briefly before she spotted the diner that lay right across the street. For a moment, Gray felt hopeful, and she limped across the empty road to the building, her stomach rumbling hungrily. She pushed open the door, her bright amber eyes darting around wildly. She hoped that Marie wasn't here. Gray found her way to a faded, worn down booth, slumping into it instantly. Her hands, which had numerous cuts lining the backs of them, rested against the cool oaken table. She bit her lip, glancing at a discarded newspaper that lay beside her. Her shaking fingers gingerly picked it up, frowning, as she read the headline:
MONSTER NO JOKE FOR THOSE WHO SAW IT!
MYSTERIOUS BEAST STALKING SIOUX FALLS.
Gray bit her lip again, her thoughts instantly wandering, as she decided to read the article that followed.
Reports of cattle attacks and a grisly string of murders has led some citizens to dub this 'monster' the Sioux Falls Werewolf. Along with the absurd nickname, false sightings of a furry, man-like beast have also been reported to local police officers and have circled around the media. Of course, us strong willed reporters and few folk who aren't in belief of this wolfman know the truth: these gruesome attacks are the work of a serial killer filled with mythical fantasies. Whoever this 'beast' is, their murderous jokes will not be taken lightly.
"Spooky, isn't it?"
Gray jumped, her wild eyes darting up to lock onto an elderly waitress. She calmed, taking a deep breath, and offering the woman a lopsided grin.
"Yeah, spooky. I mean, it's insane- someone causing all of this," She stated, running a hand through her tangled locks.
"Miss, are you okay?" The waitress frowned, "What happened to your eye?"
Gray frowned, glancing at her reflection in the window. Her right eye was blackened. She managed a shaky smile, glancing back up at the woman. "Bad breakup, I'll be okay. I, uh.. can I get a glass of water?"
"Of course, sweetie. I'll be back out with your drink in a few, then I'll take your order." The waitress offered her a smile and a pat on the shoulder. Gray cast her attention back onto the paper, ignoring the burning that the ragged scar on her shoulder was causing.
As of now, there is no evidence linking these attacks to human or animal suspects. Autopsies and studies will prove further evidence in capturing the culprit, but beware modern day Lycaon: we're watching you.
Gray set the paper down, glancing out the window, losing herself to her thoughts.
What if Marie followed her here?
She didn't like the idea, but she took in another deep breath to try and reassure herself before she was brought back to reality by the sound of a cup being set on the table. Her hand instantly closed around it, bringing the cool liquid to her lips. As of now, water was Gray's best friend.
"What would you like to order, hon?" The waitress asked, her eyes gentle.
"Um, hamburger. Medium rare," Gray replied, glancing up at her.
"Hon, it's nine in the morning, are you sure?"
"I, uh, yeah. I'm sure," She smiled. "That's all I want right now. I'm starving."
The waitress nodded, offering a soft frown, before she went to place Gray's order.
"There are still no leads on missing girl Nia Hargrove, who has been missing for nearly three months. Her family, who lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is praying for Nia's safe return. If spotted, please call the following number.."
Gray listened to the TV announcer ramble on, but she refused to look up at the television. She didn't want to, afraid of what she'd see. Afraid of what she'd learn.
In due time, Gray was delivered her food. Gray tore into her burger eagerly, not caring if the sound that came out of her throat was human or not. She didn't know when she had eaten last, and she hardly cared now that there was food in front of her to soothe this ungodly hunger that ate at her being. Of course, Gray knew that her hunger would not stay soothed for long, and she'd have to either hunt or risk getting food from somewhere else.
"You were right, hon, you are starving." Her waitress, whom Gray had learned was called Hattie, said, sitting across from her. "Where have you been? Looks like a lot has happened to you,"
"I'm letting bygones be bygones." Gray stated tiredly. "I just want food."
Hattie nodded, offering Gray a kind smile.
"Why don't you come home with me? My shift gets over around three this afternoon, you can lay down in the kitchen." She said, her voice kind. "My husband Edgar and I haven't had someone to care for since our son died,"
Gray's eyes reflected the woman's gentle sadness. "I'm sorry for your loss," She said quietly.
"Oh, it was years ago." Hattie patted Gray's shoulder. "He was a kind young man, just as hungry as you." Hattie released a soft chuckle. "I'm sure we have some clothes you can borrow, he was about your size."
"Oh, well, I don't want to intrude.." Gray started, fidgeting. She didn't want to get close to someone and lose control.
"Don't be silly," Hattie said gently, "You won't be intruding at all."
"Are you sure you want me to stay?" Gray asked meekly.
"Of course we do," Hattie replied, giving Gray a soft smile. Hattie had coaxed Gray into her old pickup truck, where she now perched comfortably in the passenger seat. Gray reminded Hattie of a scared, timid animal; but the woman guessed that Gray had been through something traumatic. The girl had a reason to act accordingly. "Tell me about yourself, Gray."
Gray bit her lip, thinking. "I have a younger brother. My dad left when I was eight. Um.. I was the family disappointment before I ran away,"
Hattie frowned, her hand finding Gray's shoulder. It was comforting, and something Gray knew that she'd grow attached to. "I'm sorry about that." Hattie told her gently. "Where were you running to?"
"Anywhere. Nowhere." Gray responded quietly.
"Where were you running from?"
"The hell I was supposed to call my home."
Hattie's home was one of those old, traditional western-styled homes. It sat right at the edge of town, which gave Gray a bit of comfort. Countryside meant less people that would bother her, less people that would come hunting for her.
"Come in, come in," Hattie said, grinning softly, as she gently pulled Gray into the house. "Ed! We have a guest," The woman called. Gray could tell that Hattie was excited. Apparently the young stranger's presence meant something to her. It made Gray slightly uncomfortable, yet also... wanted. An odd combination of feelings that Gray had felt before. An older man, perhaps in his mid sixties, lumbered into the mudroom. He was tall and stocky, yet hunched with age. He smiled at his wife and the stranger that she had brought home, and offered Gray his hand. She shook it, allowing the man's strong grip to crush her hand.
"Who's this?" The man's gruff voice asked.
"Edgar, this is Gray. Gray...?" Hattie glanced at the girl, her eyes asking for her last name.
"Hastings. Gray Hastings." Gray offered a friendly, yet timid smile.
"Yes." Hattie chuckled softly, "This is Gray Hastings. Found the poor thing in the diner, all alone. She's been ruffed up some, Ed."
"Ruffed up?" The man asked, his stormy eyes locking onto the young girl. "By who?"
Gray offered a meek shrug, looking at the floor. "Former lover. I don't want to talk about it,"
"Well, if he ever comes 'round here, he'll have another thing coming." Ed promised. "Welcome to the Samuels residence."
Hattie eagerly led Gray into the living room, sitting her down on an old, plaid chair. "Look at her, Ed, she looks just like Danny."
"Well, I suppose she would if she were a boy, Hattie." Ed chided gently, smiling, as he sat on the chair across from Gray. "How old are you, girl?"
"Well," Gray frowned, "My birthday was last month. I just turned fifteen."
"Fifteen and being beaten up by a partner?" Ed frowned. "I don't like the sound of that. Where's your family?"
Gray shrugged. "Dad left, mom kicked me out. I guess I didn't have one."
"I'm sorry to hear that, Gray." Ed said gently. "But you're welcome to crash here for the night. You can stay in Danny's old room,"