Starting out way ahead.

The chill in the air. Crunchy leaves underfoot.

An open ear means you become a holder of many secrets.

Wait. I learned how to have these kinds of conversations.

I can just take a walk.

Peppercorn trees and vines emptied of their fruit, and the blue sky streaked with clouds and purple plums on a tree and the house that only had white cars.

Tension.

Just one more test. Just one more.

Give what you can when you can.

Who knows if they’re actually listening.