'You're assuming you're going to make it through this fall alive,' she reminded herself. 'Now, don't be gloomy,' she chided back. 'Things will be alright. Right now, they're not ideal. But I can muddle through. Probably.'

'That's interesting,' she thought. 'I seem to be an optimist. With a hint of enthusiasm. And what's that warm feeling in my stomach? Ah, I'm kind! Brilliant. This is going to be fun.'