Vivian

I walked past Marian in the kitchen and headed to my room. My cell phone was right where I left it, on the bedside table. I flopped down on the bed and called my dad.

Closing my eyes, I forced my breaths to be slow and even as the phone rang. I knew he'd expect an explanation. It was better to get it out of the way now.

"Vivian! It is good to hear from you. Marian told me you woke up."

"Hi, Daddy," I said in a light, sweet voice.

"Tell me what ...