I restore myself when I'm alone. (Marilyn Monroe)

When my parents called I assured them I was fine even though I wasn’t and Senior corroborated my claim. They stayed in Philly under the assumption that I would be there in time for her funeral.

I wanted to be alone. My family, allegedly so keen on protecting me, wasn’t there when I needed them. I’ll admit now that I wanted them to stay at a distance so my case against them could build.

I was done with funerals. I was done with all the people in my past. That book was over and done with. I was starting a new book.