Marbles on Glass
19. Insomnia
The first time she is told the choice is not hers to make, Caroline falls asleep crying.
Her nights start breaking soon, and crumble to her feet as the years shape the project into reality. They become rows of nightmares, parted by long, wakeful silences.
She stops sleeping after signing the papers. Drifting away like that, eyes closed, makes her feel defenseless — not that it changes anything, now.
The night before, she only focuses on what breathing feels like.
There is no awakening where she is going to be. Don't worry, she imposes to herself. There is no sleep, either.