As winter break begins, Marin’s college roommate, Hannah, leaves to return home to her family. Hannah has left Marin a book of essays on solitude and a sealed envelope with her name on it. Marin is anxious to open the envelope, even though it likely holds only a Christmas card or a nice note. Marin is staying alone in the dorms for the duration of the break, as she has no friends or family to return to. The building is quiet and empty.

Marin’s friend, Mabel, will be coming from California the next day for a three-day visit, after which Marin will be alone in the dorms for a month. Marin is tempted to spend the entire break in bed, rarely changing clothing, but she has Mabel’s visit to get through. Marin begins to read Hanna’s essays. She makes a list of productive things to do after Mabel leaves: “read the NYT online each morning, buy groceries, make soup, ride the bus to the shopping district/library/café, read about solitude, meditate, watch documentaries, listen to podcasts, find new music…” (5). That night, she is unable to sleep, with thoughts and worries swirling in her head.

In the morning, Marin practices smiling for Mabel’s arrival.