Ruby

*Ruby's breath hitched, the note's edges dampening in her grip. Her heart pounding, she whispered, "Why did you leave, Mom? What's in this city that's more important than us?" She shook her head, her gold eyes glistening. "I won't let you down. I'll find you, and we'll start over." With a newfound determination, she stepped off the curb, disappearing into the rain-soaked streets. "I'm coming, Mom. Just hold on."