“People don’t change,” Nina said bitterly. “They just get more punctilious about hiding their true selves.” I chewed my lip while I thought that over. Was it true? I had changed – at least, I told myself I had. I was far more confident, more self-sufficient. All through school I’d relied on my friends for self-esteem and support, wanting to be one of a pack, wanting to fit in. At last I had learned that wasn’t possible, and I’d been happier – albeit more lonely – ever since.”
