I scrolled through my contacts. Most of them weren’t really mine. They were his.
I called one former colleague and begged her to do something.
“I’ll see what I can do,” she said.
I knew that meant nothing. I texted Lance.
Me: “I’m so sorry. I’m working on this. Please don’t give up.”
No response.
Then my phone rang. Ashley’s name lit up the screen.
I forced my voice to sound normal as I picked up.
“Hey, sweetheart.”
“I need you to pick me up after school tomorrow,” she said harshly.
My heart sank.
“Honey, I can’t tomorrow,” I said gently. “I have to work.”
“You always have to work,” she snapped.
“I know,” I said. “I need this job. Ask your father-”
“I don’t want Dad!” she shouted. “I want you!”
I closed my eyes. I didn’t need this right now. I
