“I’m also wrapping up the Art Media project you assigned,” Lily added quickly. “It will be ready by Monday.”
Henry smiled. “Working through the weekend again. Try not to burn yourself out. But I appreciate the dedication.”
When he finally left, Lily leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes for a brief moment. Thirty percent. That was what the raise would be. Thirty percent more money. Thirty percent closer to freedom.
She packed up near eleven, the office lights clicking off row by row behind her. Outside, the city air felt cooler, sharper. She breathed deeply on the walk to her car, trying to hold on to the fragile sense of hope blooming in her chest.
The apartment lights were on when she got home. The television blared from the living room, sports commentators shouting over each other. Lily barely had time to hang her coat before a familiar voice sliced through the air.
