CHAPTER 32CHARLIE
December 28, 2090
When I reached the playground, I spotted Lareina sitting on one of the swings and ran over to her.
“Don’t get too close.” She held her hands up. “Hopefully I’m just tired, but I could be coming down with the flu like everyone else.”
Nodding, I sat down on a swing a few feet away from her. “Maybe you should take a day off.”
“I can’t. Most of the other caregivers are already out.” She wrapped her arms around herself even though she was already bundled in a heavy coat and hat. “I remember what it’s like to be sick and afraid and all alone. I won’t let them go through that.”
Remembering the feeling she described, I couldn’t argue. “What do we need to talk about?”
Lareina took a sharp breath. “I got all of your messages, but I didn’t call you back beca
