Hanging

I protested: “Yeah, but that’s because —”

“That kind man, the girl’s father. He said he knew you well, and that the thought of jumping off wouldn’t have even crossed your mind. The boy said as much, too. They both told me you’re a writer destined for greatness.” She presented my case for me better than I was going to, myself. My heart sank, knowing that this meant she already considered everything I would have brought up. Dr. Gagnon continued: “But I’m sure that it’s been a difficult time for you. They mentioned that you quit your job without a word, then showed up weeks later searching for a girl. That must have been ‘Dawn’, I suppose?”

I nodded my head, though there was no need to confirm.