**I'm not fat. I'm not greedy** She thinks these things conciously without conviction. She turns sideways and critically observes the developing curves. **Exactly how much is too much, anyway? Ouch!** A sharp pain in her foot disrupts her speculation, and she brushes Mickey away. "Mickey, you're looking awfully wild today." She is in no mood for play. She sits on her bed, her novel momentarily forgotten as she stares out the window. Mickey jumps up and burrows into her, purring loudly. "Oh, would you leave me alone?" **At least someone cares.** She opens the fire escape door and walks outside. The metal bars pinch her feet, but she sits and looks out across the backyards and parking lots. Mickey insinuates himself beneath her hand, and almost before she notices she finds herself petting him.