Following Michael's lead, she's loathe to release the cat just yet. It keeps her from hugging him or holding his hand, things that she shouldn't do again tonight. Maybe ever again, she thinks. But the urge simply won't go away.

As soon as I have a free moment, here or back in my apartment, I'm going to be the coward I've shown myself to be and text Simon. I can't see him tonight, maybe even tomorrow. Not until I get my thoughts in order and am ready to be honest with him.

What if I'm not able to do it?

Is this what living a lie is like?