A pleasant contrast from the stifling stress of the preceding few weeks was the clean morning air. Paul had been amazing, demanding to know who had mistreated me, but his wrath was subdued by a soft care that was gradually pulling the shadows from my head back in line. I hadn't expected a calming balm until I spent time with him, shared little memories, and discussed everyday events. Given his relationship with Joan, I attempted to ignore the unusual feeling in my chest that started to develop whenever he was around.
Joan was not a nice constant presence. Every gaze and sneer suggested her contempt of me. Though I had attempted to avoid her, her nasty jabs constantly crept into my days. I stayed away, concentrating on recovering a regular existence.
I decided to meander around the park c
