Emily had been lulled into a half-asleep, half-awake state in the short drive from the station to her new home. When the car came to a stop, she found it difficult to tell if she was dreaming or not, even after Mary turned to her with a wide grin.

Mary: “I told you I’d get us home in one piece.”
Emily: “That you did.”
Mary: “It’s just a short walk up to the house. Let’s grab your things and go inside before we fall asleep out here.”

Emily decided she must be awake after all, despite the continued surreal feeling that had followed her from California to the north of Washington. With a tired smile, she grabbed one of her suitcases and followed her friend.

Mary: "My parents had some remodeling done not too long ago, so I'll give you a grand tour since it's changed so much since you were here last. God, how long ago was that?"
Emily: "I think it was probably ten years now. Remember the hamster?"
Mary: "Poor little guy."
Emily: "It was a lovely service."
Mary: "May he rest in peace."

Mary: "At any rate, that was the entrance of course, and that's the kitchen. The living room is off to the left there..."

Emily: "Holy shit, Mary, that's the biggest flat panel TV I've ever seen! Did your parents really leave all this here for you?"
Mary: "Yep, it’s mine to do with as I please in my bid to become a famous artist. Since they got the new place out on the lake they figured I may as well get some use out of 'the old summer home.’ C'mon, I'll show you your room upstairs."

Mary: "You get what used to be my room, since I took over the master bedroom. Mom gutted it after I left for college. I hope it's going to work out for you; I'm sorry it's not much."
Emily: "No, Mary, this is perfect. It’s much better than anything I've ever had before."
Mary: “I guess it could be worse. At least she didn’t paint it Pepto-pink.”

Emily fought back a sob and threw her arms around Mary in a tight hug that was easily returned. After a few short seconds, she stepped back, dabbing at her eyes. She didn’t miss the glitter of tears in her friends eyes.

Emily: "I really want to thank you for everything you're doing for me. You have no idea how much it means to me. I've been lost for so long. This is such an opportunity for me to be myself again."
Mary: "Shhh... Emily, it's the least I can do. I wasn't there before, and I'm sorry, but I'm here now. I just want to help you out in any way I can. You can make it up to me by getting some rest and being with me at my show tomorrow! I'll let you settle in now; let me know if you need anything."