"A place called Hillston."
"Are you all right? You sound so strange."
"I'm okay."
"What are you doing? Are you looking for a job?"
"Not yet."
She lowered her voice so I could barely hear her. "Do you want me to come there? I would, you know, if you want me. And no—no strings, Tal darling."
"No. I just called so you'd know I'm all right."
"Thank you for calling, darling."
"Well ... good-by."
"Please write to me."