Chapter 66

Despite the fact that Vince made me aware that my failure to get a new job was not entirely my fault, I still felt like it was my fault. I still felt as if there was something I was doing wrong that was affecting the possibility of getting a new job.

The afternoon sun cast long shadows as I sat on the couch, anxiously awaiting Joy’s visit. The heaviness of recent rejections and the emotional toll of job searching lingered in the air. The doorbell rang, and I hurried to answer, welcoming Joy’s familiar smile.

“Hey, Laura,” Joy greeted me with a warm hug. “I heard you’ve been having a tough time. What’s going on?”

As we settled in the living room, I hesitated before pouring out my financial struggles. Joy listened attentively, her empathy evident in the understanding glint in her eyes. After I finished sharing, she took a deep breath, her expression serious.

“I want to help you, Laura,” Joy said, her voice gentle. “But I need you to come with me to a place by 6