City council on Tuesdays, marathon practice on Wednesdays, volunteering on Thursdays, and late shift on Fridays. No friends; doesn’t have the time. Energy drinks fill her bag, and concealer to disguise tired eyes.

A bright smile hides the fact that she doubts she’ll ever live up to the world’s expectations.

Karalyn Wayne enjoys reading poetry in her armchair with a warm drink close by. She takes inspiration from long walks with her dog and the conversations of noisy neighbors. When she isn’t procrastinating, she writes. This is her second published story.