"Hi, Julian. It's Zara. This is my new phone number."
"Zara…" There's a pause, and he adds, "That sounds good. That way I can contact you."
"How are you? You left in a real hurry. Your situation seemed urgent," I commented.
"Yes, it was. It was about Alina. She fell…" His voice softens in a way that takes me by surprise.
"Is she okay?" I ask, trying to sound calm, even though worry is tightening in my chest.
"Yes. Luckily, it was just a scrape on her knee. We just got home and she's asleep."
"I'm glad she's okay."
"Thanks for your concern." Another pause. Then, with a tone that regains its natural authority, "I'll pick you up at seven."
"Sure, I'll be waiting for you."
I hang up and let out a sigh.
I need to get my life in order. Looking for a residency position, hoping
