I woke up before the alarm, and I was surprisingly active for someone who had just woken up.

Nothing interrupted the night. Not even a dream I could name.

I lay still longer than necessary, listening to the quiet.

Then, I sat up with care, as if I were being watched.

I had to prepare for my interview.

I twisted the key of my safe and took out some cash. I didn't like going about empty-handed.

In the bathroom mirror, I caught myself watching my own reflection too closely.

The tilt of my head, the way my eyes held, then released.

I practiced neutrality until it appeared to be confidence....