---The below excerpt is a chapter from my debut memoir, Temple and Ash--- It is nearing bedtime, and my younger sister Casey exhales dramatically as we sit side-by-side in the bathtub, scrubbing the shower walls with our soapy rags.  Together, we bemoan the devious Evil Step-Mother for forcing us into such cruel indentured servitude and preventing us from being outside instead, singing and dancing with the birds. I lean over to inspect her work, informing her that she has mis

I don't let myself overthink the hug after the interview. How it lasted too long. How it was a little too tight. How he walked me to the front door; out of view from his business partners, his wife. I willfully ignore the drop in my stomach, the quickening of my heartbeat. How conceited, in fact. Not every man you meet wants to get with you, Megan. Stop playing the victim. When he calls for a follow-up meeting, I let myself feel optimistic about my chances. Maybe I'll get the