Lindsy
James and his family are coming over for dinner, which means there will be no gym tonight. It affects me more than I thought it would, and I spend the evening watching the clock, wishing they'd get here sooner.
When my bath is ready, I slowly sink into it, allowing the warm water to soothe my achy joints. I let myself slide down the tub until both my body and head are fully submerged.
Then I hold my breath. I imagine it is what having a real family must feel like: warm, all-consuming, like everything is better under here. Safer. I stay under until I run out of breath, then break the surface gasping for air.
When I'm ready, I cross the room to my bedside table and open the drawer. Inside is my acceptance letter, and I gently pull it out before unfolding the page. My whole life, I
