They were older than most parents, and had required little of Vivian when she was growing up.

NEWYORKER: Temporary

Vivian felt a little thrill at being able to carry off such sophisticated nonchalance, and she admired the way that Shelly slithered through her days and nights, shedding the most outrageous experiences as if they were simply the air she passed through.

NEWYORKER: Temporary

For a second, Vivian caught a glimpse of what her mother had looked like as a little girl.

NEWYORKER: Temporary

His face relaxed and opened up, and Vivian saw how great the barriers were between a person and his happiness, and how little it took to make him think they were small.

NEWYORKER: Temporary