I could see it from where I stood.

And I think that recognition — she is what I’m becoming — did more to change me than any kindness could have, because you can refuse a kindness, but you cannot un-see your own future sitting across a kitchen table telling you it isn’t as warm as it looks.

We were, the two of us, the same animal.

It only took me until winter to see it.

Chapter 9 — The Brochures