Page 5 of Ryld's Shadows

“Two and a half years, sir.”

Elegant eyebrows of pale green crept up toward Oakfrond’s hairline. “Did you hit someone? Is that why you were fired?”

“No, sir. New management…”Was incredibly racist. “They wanted a certain corporate culture. I wasn’t a good fit.”

“Have you worked construction?”

Any job. Take any job. This isn’t the time to be picky. “It’s been a few years, sir. When I first crossed over. But I have.”

“Good.” Oakfrond nodded, apparently satisfied that finally his prejudices had panned out. He handed Hank an index card with a name and address. “Report to the foreman tomorrow. Nine o’clock. Don’t be late and don’t start fights.”

“Yes, sir.” Hank folded the card and stuck it in his wallet as he fled the office.

At least he knew whonotto see the next time he came in. He’d manage until a real job came up. It was fine. Miss Ono had asked once why he didn’t go to the goblin community to look for work, and it was still tempting. But most goblins in this world regarded his lack of claws and his not-quite-the-right-shade-of-green skin with suspicion. Being half-human hadn’t always been accepted back home, and it didn’t seem to be much different here. No, Hank was on his own, without family or clan, and he couldn’t think about that too much, or his determination not to cry was going to crumble.I miss Mum and Dad so much…

He took the elevator up to social services, took a number and sank into one of the chairs lined up by the back wall. Tums, then back home to rest and take stock. He thought he had enough food to last him until the end of the week, if he was careful. Otherwise, he might have to plan some restaurant dumpster diving. Not ideal, but he was going to make it through this.

I will.