Chapter 34: Heavy or Not Heavy.

I woke this morning with one question in my mind—How on earth can I be completely alone?

I decided to phone Max, phoning Max is doing the unthinkable and it is a pathetic and desperate move, but there is no need to deny it, I am pathetic and desperate.

"Hi, Max," I said as he answered his work line at Giovanni Rojas.

I heard what sounded like a cough or a laugh, then silence.

"It's Tessy," I said.

"I know who it is."

"How are you?" I asked, keeping my voice steady.

"I'm fine. You?" He asked.

"I'm. . . okay," I said. "I was just wondering. . .can you talk? Is this an okay time?"

"Um. . .Well, I actually have to run—"

"Okay, how about later? Can you meet me after work?"

"I don't think so," he answered quickly.

"Please. I really need to talk to you about something," I said.

As I said those words, I realized that Max no longer cares about my needs.

"I don't think so," he said again.

"Why not?"

"I just don't think it's a good idea."

"Because of Sandra?"

"Tessy," he said, annoyed. "What