You stare up at the sun, a hazy ball behind a cloud. It’s just the normal sun, obliviously shining, even though the world has gone to shit. The last time you felt like this, you realize, was when you were with the Asshole.

“So I have a few other ideas,” Carson says. “But they’re a little . . . outside the box.”

His voice is so earnest and helpful that you want to hug him. Carson tries so hard to make you happy. “Okay,” you say. “Shoot.”

“Well, there’s this,” he says, and turns the notepad he’s holding around so you can see. On it are two items. The first: Documentary.

“A documentary?” you ask.

“I’ve heard some rumblings about one in the works. About parenting, kids—and schools—during this time. If we were featured, maybe, it could bring us a lot of visibility. And they’re going for something super highbrow.”

You pause. You think of your glorious little school. And the beautiful children. Hell, the beautiful parents. Oh, there are a few rogue apples, some squeaky wheels . . . but you can deal with those. You always have.

“Interesting,” you admit. “You know the person to contact?”

“I do.” Carson nods, grinning. “He’s going to love you.”

This is a tiny glimmer of hope. You’ve always thought you had a face for TV. And if Silver Swans were the topic of an esteemed program, maybe you could charge even more when everyone returns. To balance things out.

Then you notice the second item on Carson’s list. You read it over several times, making sure you understand what Carson is getting at. This, too, has potential. A lot of potential.

“This.” You point at it, your heart picking up speed. With fear. With desire. With curiosity. And with admiration. Carson is more slippery than you’d ever imagined. “Tell me more about this one, too.”

Eighteen

Isn’t he the nicest baby?” Clarissa cooed to Matthew. She and Lauren sat on the carpet, Clarissa cross-legged, Lauren’s spine pressed against the couch, Matthew balancing expertly on his diapered butt. He was so proud of his ability to sit. Clarissa tossed a soft block, and when it landed in Matthew’s lap, she squealed with pleasure. “Good catch!” She pulled him close in a squeeze. “My good boy!”

Lauren tried to muster a smile, but it was more like a grimace. My good boy? She wasn’t sure how much more of Clarissa she could take. “Um, I’m taking off now,” she said.

“No prob!” Clarissa beamed. “Enjoy!”