The red leaves are beautiful.

I felt my breath catch at the sight of green pastures peeking out as the car pulled to an abrupt stop. The chilly autumn breeze blew past. Faint streaks of sunlight fell upon my features and I waved cheerily upwards as if greeting the brightness.

It felt so surreal.

The chirpings of birds reached my ears. I got out of the car, a smile spreading across my face. It felt great as treading around the dirt and kicking up  loose fallen leaves. This was the long awaited freedom.

How long has it been since?

I needed the fresh air. I needed to breathe. Those colorless days of my life spent had been unfortunately wasted... but things change. I took a deep breath, relishing in the sweet autumn scent. Yes. Things change.

"OI LOOK AT ME!"

I jumped at the sudden shout, turning a few times before spotting a couple standing a distance away. Eyes wide. I raised a brow at the obvious tension. Perhaps it was time to give them privacy or...?

A slap interrupted my thoughts.

A shove.

Followed by more bellowing of profanities, one-sided I believe. It brought about a frown. How awful. Not that it was any of my business but I felt a pang of annoyance at the disturbed peace. A twinge of pity for the lady who had kept her silence well.

Should I leave now?

I clutched the hems of my jacket as an involuntary shiver shook my body.

Pity.

A sighed escaped my lips as I made my choice. What more could I have done?

The world is cruel to begin with...