At least, it had looked empty. As I continue on my way there is a shout and a man runs up and grabs me by the collar. I turn quickly to strike him, but behind him I can already see that his shouting has roused some of the neighbours. Lights are coming on behind opening windows and one or two doors have cracked open. The other suggests caution and I reluctantly agree.

The man grapples with me as if he were the stronger, and I let him drag me back to where the stupid girl is making enough noise to gather a crowd, even at this time of the day.

They talk to me, asking questions and casting insults at me, but there is the look in their eyes which I am now used to seeing in all eyes that look at me. If I choose to walk away, they would let me, for fear of what I might do. However, I stand and take their barbs, the other controlling my actions for now.