Chapter 12

In June, the new branch passed its final inspection. The annual awards ceremony was held at our branch. For the first time, my name appeared next to Adrian's on the Outstanding Annual Project Award list. The host announced on stage: "New Branch Prep Team, Adrian and Nora." We walked onto the stage together. When we received the trophy, he gave up the center spot for me. The photographer shouted: "Stand a little closer." He shifted half a step toward me. When we got off stage, our coworkers...