I called Mom while I was shopping and asked, “Should I bring chocolate cake or apple pie for Christmas?” – Welcome

“I got a payroll job,” she said. “I start Monday.”

“That’s great.”

“I’m terrified.”

“Also normal.”

“I haven’t worked in months.”

“You’ve done the job before.”

“I know. I keep reminding myself.”

Laya appeared carrying a school folder.

“Still hate fractions?” I asked.

“Now we have decimals.”

“Worse?”

“Much.”

Monica rolled her eyes.

“Everything is a crisis when you’re continue reading …