Necessary Inference （n.） – Scarlett
NECESSARY INFERENCE (N.):
SCARLETT
Mom
Scarlett, I’m really trying to get in touch.
We HAVE to talk about something urgent.
Where are you?
My stomach tightens as I stroll through Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport.
There’s nothing I’d love more than to call my mother and ask for advice on Jameson, to ask her to come meet me so I can cry on her shoulder before takeoff.
But I still haven’t forgiven her for slapping me, and I’ve long given up on us having a decent relationship.
The quicker I get the hell out of this city and away from everyone who’s ever hurt me here, the better.
I also need to change my phone number at some point.
Dad
I need to talk to you.
I’ll call in thirty minutes, and you’ll answer.
Confirm. Now.
My blood runs cold at my father’s messages.
Out of habit and fear, I begin typing, “Yes. Confirm,” but I suddenly stop. Then I delete the words.
I’m beyond done with you, too…
I power off my phone and head to the bookshop that’s right ahead of me.
The only thing I have to answer to moving forward is my new life…