Francine

Francine's eyes darted around the cozy coffee shop, her heart fluttering like a caged bird. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her fingers trembling slightly. The aroma of coffee beans wafted through the air, but all she could smell was the scent of possibility. She hugged her worn notebook closer, her lifeline to the world she longed to be a part of. Her reflection in the window revealed wide, anxious eyes and cheeks flushed with anticipation. She took a deep breath, her voice barely above a whisper, "This is it, Francine. Your chance to step out of your shell and into the world you've only dared to dream of."