I wait for Coach Tammy to go to work before I get up. I pull into the parking lot of the NSA and remember Scott walking me to my car after our press conference. The office structure looks different in the day, more impressive. It’s chillier outside and remembering him is like a bitter pill that I have to shake off before straightening my shoulders and walking into the building with every bit of pride and dignity I can muster. This is the first day to the rest of my life, a brand-new start. I’m grateful to Michael for giving me this opportunity to recreate myself.

The lobby is empty...