My alarm clock blared, jolting me out of my slumber. I groaned and rolled out of bed reluctantly. I couldn’t help the feeling of dread that enveloped me at the thought of the day’s events.

Marcella had stayed up with me last night, trying to make me feel better. Unfortunately, her long speech expired the moment I opened my eyes.

I got ready for work grudgingly. I picked out black jeans and a black knitted sweater, letting my true emotions shine ...