TWO HOURS LATER

Georgia turned on the bed, her blanket falling off her shoulder. Her eyes opened slowly, still heavy with sleep. She blinked a few times and sat up, rubbing her face with both hands.

A soft yawn slipped from her lips as she stretched her arms high above her head. Her back gave a small crack, and she sighed. This sleep felt different. Better. Her room was quiet. No ringing phone. No loud voices.

She pushed the blanket off and placed her feet on the floor. It was cold against her skin, making her toes curl. She stood up and walked toward the bathroom with slow, lazy steps....