One week. I'd said yes. I couldn't turn back. At this point, I had no choice but to become a Controller, and I knew it. I was confused and scared at my decision, but I wasn't going to back down because deep down, I knew I wanted to do this. I don't change my mind about things that easily.

My fear was constant, chock-full of uncertainties and variables, but not enough to stop me. Or was it? Maybe I could still change my mind. Not show up at the next meeting. I could do that. Couldn't I?

I flopped back onto my bed and stared up at the ceiling. It had footprints in several places from when I'd had a bunk bed and slept in the top bunk. My sister had taken the bottom. We'd shared a room for a long time. Now, Amy was off at college and I had the room to myself.

I sighed and turned to look out the window at the crisp fall day. The sky was crystal blue with not a cloud in sight. The leaves on the maple were crimson, orange, yellow. The yard needed raking. Again. Ugh.

I think that's when I decided for sure. I couldn't be selfish about all this beauty. It would be a sacrifice, but not a huge one. But I would do it. I was sure this time. I would not chicken out.