For months I’d lived as though every day depended on Daniel’s mood.

Now I had doctors’ appointments, a meeting with Evelyn, a potluck at the community center, and an invitation to hear Nina give a talk about local journalism.

The afternoon after the gathering, I walked to the grocery store for peaches.

At the register I found myself counting my bills carefully, out of habit.

The cashier waited patiently.

She asked whether I wanted help carrying the bag.

“Thank you,” I said, “but I’ve got it.”