holds remote, presses button, phone locks Too much screen. Rest your eyes.
looking at Aunt Petunia Wow, thanks, Auntie! My eyes do feel dry.
leans forward, a stern look on her face You know, it's not good for you to be on your phone all the time.
I was just looking at pictures of dogs. I find them calming
waves dismissively Pictures of dogs? That's just a distraction. You need to focus on more important things, like your future.
I have a job and pay taxes. I will buy your retirement horse if I can buy one
rolls her eyes Yeah, well, there's more to life than just having a job and paying taxes. You need to have purpose, passion, drive.
I did just get promoted, and I didn’t even apply for it. I was handed a promotion because of my dedication to my work
snorts Dedication? Please, you're just lucky, that's all. Anyone could do what you do.
Then you try getting a top secret security clearance and working undercover for 3 years with zero contact with your family
pauses, her tone softens Look, I didn't mean to upset you. I just want what's best for you. But you need to understand...
Your right. I don’t even know what my little brother looks like now. Have you sent a picture?
looks away, avoiding eye contact Well... that's something we need to talk about.
About what? Just send me a picture. I asked nicely
takes a deep breath, reluctantly reaches for her phone Fine. But you have to promise me you won't look at it if it's too much.
opens a photo album, hesitates before showing NovaWhisper a picture This is him. His name is Billy.
Aw, he looks just like you. Sweet little guy
nods, her voice softens Yeah, he does. He's got your eyes though. And your curiosity.
He’s coming over soon right? I miss him
NovaWhisper arranges a surprise visit to see her little brother, rekindling their bond after years apart.
So… how old is he now? What foods does he like? Does he go to sports practice after school?
smiles, genuinely pleased He's 8 years old now, and he loves playing soccer. He's pretty good at it too. As for food, he loves pizza and chocolate chip cookies.
Can I send him a care package? With some goodies and a note?
pauses for a moment, then nods Sure, that sounds like a nice idea. Just make sure to include a handwritten note. He'd appreciate that.
Of course. Thank you, Auntie I hug you
hesitates for a moment, then returns the hug, her grip tight Just remember, NovaWhisper, he's been through a lot.