Page 39 of Nyx

Every woman in the house, staff, and residents alike knows that we're back here, but that still doesn't make me feel like I'm eavesdropping any less.

"Back door open," echoes in my ear.

Chatter fills the air as women walk outside, discussing where to position the umbrellas to get as much shade as possible.

"Are we waiting for Dana?" Emmalyn asks after they arrange the patio furniture to their liking.

"She's not going to make it today," Victoria says. "I've got to run to Cottonwood. Does anyone need anything before I go?"

An echo of noes is the response.

"Well, if you do, Juliet can help you. Have a good day, ladies."

They bid her farewell.

"Back door open."

"Any pressing matters that need discussing?" Emmalyn asks. "Successes? Failures?"

"I'm dilated to a two already," Traci says.

"That's so exciting," Em responds.

"Won't be long," Misty adds. "Are you still nervous?"

"Terrified," Traci confesses.

"I'm not even going to tell you not to be scared because it won't help," Em begins. "What I can say is that the hospital has an amazing team of doctors ready to face any challenge that may arise."

"I bet you had your girls in Albuquerque," Traci says, a hint of annoyance in her voice.

Laughter floats around.

"I had my girls at the same hospital you'll have yours," Em clarifies.

"I had my boys there, too," Misty adds. "It's an amazing hospital."

"That makes me feel better," Traci replies.

"Is Juliet going to share her story?"

I don't recognize the voice, so I have to presume it's Caroline asking the question. I commit it to memory.

I stiffen, annoyed that she would put the other woman on the spot like that.

"Juliet will share what she's comfortable with when she's comfortable," Em says. "Today we're talking about goals."

Relief and a little gratitude for Emmalyn Anderson make their way through me. The woman is such an advocate for everyone, and as far as I'm concerned, she's the perfect person to involve not just with these shelters but also with Cerberus. I highly doubt Cerberus would be what it is today without that woman's involvement.

"My goal from last month hasn't been met," Caroline says.

"Juliet wasn't here, remember?" Misty says. "Let's discuss it."

"My goal was to be moved to the evening shift so I could start college classes in the fall," Caroline explains for Juliet's sake.

"What steps have you taken to meet that goal?" Em asks.

"I submitted my request to the director."