I've had this open in my tabs for a bit so I could reread before commenting. First, yay! I love surprise fic based on a request I forgot I made. It's like candy that reads your mind.

The floor was rough with loose sand under her bare feet, and in the bathroom she tripped over the tangled pile of bathing suits. They were still wet, and had a weird smell.

I love how you include senses people sometimes neglect in fic.

Sometimes she was glad she had to leave for work, to get away from the heat rising and filling the only space which was truly hers.

I hadn't even thought of that, but really good point. And sad. And so telling that the driving force behind her alone time and personal space is in pursuit of Anne Marie's dream (and Anne Marie).

Great last line, as usual. Thank you so much!