The first crack did not sound like a break.

It sounded like hesitation.

Lynda heard it in Rachel’s voice.

‘’We might need to pause operations, ‘’ Rachel said carefully over the phone ‘’just temporarily’’. The permit approvals have not come through, and without them, we cannot legally continue certain programs.’’

Lynda stood still in her apartment, phone pressed to her ear, eyes fixed on nothing.

‘’Define ‘pause,’’’ she said.

Rachel hesitated.

‘’A few ...