(Lena)
Monday came faster than the weekend deserved.
I was up before my alarm and dressed before Diane finished her coffee which was saying something because Diane treated her morning coffee like a professional obligation that couldn't be rushed for anyone.
"You're nervous," she said from the kitchen table.
"I'm ready to work," I said.
"Those aren't the same thing."
I picked up my bag and checked that I had everything. Measuring tape, notepad, sample swatches, the color scheme I'd been pulling together since Saturday. Everything I needed for a professional site visit.
"Stop looking at your bag like it's going to save you," Diane said.
"I'm checking my materials."
"You've checked them three times since I sat down."
I looked at her.
She looked back at me over her mug with complete
