Page 17

“I said big changes, that's different—look. Okay. I'm trying out a new... career. Something that might be more long term than selling insurance behind a desk.”

“Veronica...”

“Yeah?”

“Are you happy? That's all that really matters.”

I take too long to respond. “Of course I am. I'll talk to you soon, Sonya.”

“You better. I have to go anyway, Tim is whining about something, as usual. Bye!” The call ends. I listen to the dial tone with my eyes closed, then toss my phone under my pillow.

Am I happy?

Exhaustion steals the last of my strength. Spread out on the bed, the sound of the fan whirring constantly in the background, I give in to my body's demands and fall asleep.