The question was so familiar that I almost smiled.

He still spoke as though my feelings were the object of the proceeding rather than the result of everything that had happened.

“I’m building a good life,” I told him.

“That’s enough of an answer.”

He opened his mouth, then closed it.

I didn’t wait for his reply.

I thanked Sandra and walked out to meet Laura, who had already bought the coffee she’d promised.

We sat on a bench outside the courthouse.