The alarm clock is ringing like a hysterical person. I get annoyed, irritated, and finally stop it with a strong press, still with my eyes closed. I think about why I set the alarm, even though I decided last night not to go to work this morning. I try to go back to sleep, and then I remember. Of course. Today is my birthday. I am turning forty. I have guests tonight. I need to go to the supermarket and then cook. Loreta, the girl who comes once a week to clean, must already be at home. She will stay all day. We have it arranged.
I quickly jump out of bed, pulling Marilyn, my cat, onto the floor. Marilyn meows annoyed. I bend down and pet her. "Sorry, my sweet," I say, giving her a kiss on her silvery-gray head as always. She starts purring and rolls over, inviting me to continue. She is so affectionate, she reminds me of the unforgettable Monroe. That's why I call her Marilyn. "Next time," I tell her. I run to the bathroom, close the door, and stand in front of the large full-length mirror attached behind it. I throw off my silky white nightgown and stand completely naked. I look at myself, trying to see the forty-year-old woman, but what I see is a girl... a teenager... a young woman, anyway. Not more than thirty.