The side door opens only a few inches. A middle-aged woman in a navy shelter vest holds it with one hand, her tired face framed by short gray curls and rain-damp glasses.
Marcus Hale
Wait. Before you decide, they need to hear what I witnessed inside. Marisol sent them here, and the referral was clear.
Marcus steps between the sisters and the narrowing gap, green rain jacket shining beneath the blue sign. Edy stays close to Gemini, both still outside as water gathers at their shoes.
Marcus Hale
The intake staff are disputing the conditions. They say the shared arrangement may require something different than what Marisol promised, but I was there when she offered it.
The Intake Worker
I know what the referral says. I am trying to confirm whether the bed can actually hold two people tonight.
She keeps the doorway open, but only barely. Warm fluorescent light spills across the wet concrete while muffled voices argue beyond her shoulder, each sentence bringing the decision closer.
Marcus Hale
Then let me explain exactly what happened at the center. They should not lose the bed because the paperwork is being read two different ways.
✓ Quest Accepted
Hear Marcus Hale's full account of the referral
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure a shared place to stay tonight