"Miss J, but what's your real name?" Bella asked curiously, tucking her feet under her on the chair. "If you don't mind me asking, I mean."
Miss J laughed, that warm, melodic sound that made Bella feel like everything was okay. "You want to know?"
"Yes, yes! I really want to know." Bella nodded eagerly, even though Miss J couldn't see her. "I've been calling you Miss J in my head, but that's like a secret identity name. I want to know the real you."
Another laugh, softer this time. "You're so sweet, Isabella. Always curious. Always wanting to connect."
"Is that bad?"
"No, sweetheart. It's beautiful." A pause. "Hmm. My original name... it's one I don't use much anymore. But for you, I'll share."
Bella leaned closer to the phone, as if that would help her hear better.
"My name is Jocelyne."
The word was soft, elegant, a name that sounded like whispered secrets and old poetry.
