V had a passing thought that she used the word “anyway” like an eraser on a crowded chalkboard. She said it whenever she needed to clear off the things she’d just shared to make room...

V settled back against the pillows and measured the hard line of her chin.”Take off your coat.””Excuse me?””Take it off.””No.””I want it off.””Then I suggest you hold your breath. Won’t affect me in the slightest,...