CHAPTER FIFTY FOUR – PRACTICING FOR THE REAL DEAL

As they settled onto the couch to watch a movie, Joan felt a sense of peace wash over her. Yes, the job search was daunting. Yes, she still felt a twinge of guilt about not contributing financially. But she was making progress, taking steps towards her goals. And with Vito by her side, she felt like anything was possible. The next morning, Joan woke early again, determined to continue her job search momentum. She made herself a cup of coffee and settled into what was quickly becoming her favorite spot in the library – the window seat overlooking the city. As she scrolled through job listings, her phone buzzed with a text from her brother, Tim. Tim: Hey sis, how's the job hunt going? Joan smiled, touched by her brother's thoughtfulness. Joan: It's going okay. Applied to a few places yesterday. How are things at home? Tim: Same old, same old. Dad's pretending he's not moping about you being gone. Want me to come by later? I can help you practice interviewing. Joan considered the o