Last updated on September 19, 2025
Finally Susan appears on screen, slightly pixelated. Andy adjusts his phone.
“I’ve been attempting to secure a decent signal for ten minutes. How do I appear? Actually, don’t respond, I’m melting in this oppressive heat.”
Laughing Susan says “you resemble someone broadcasting from inside a sauna. What’s happening over there?”
“Oh, just experiencing my finest moments of existence in a malfunctioning air conditioning paradise. The library’s cooling system expired, my condo’s ventilation is barely functioning, and I’ve basically become a wanderer with my phone and my theceshop.com logins.”
“A digital nomad ” Susan grins. “Very modern indeed.”
“I doubt covered-wagon pioneers are jealous.” Before sweat from his forehead drips onto to the screen, he raises his arm and wipes it with his sleeve. “I am not trying to convince myself that collecting opportunities builds character. It just holds more promise than spending them recklessly without assuring their tomorrow. Even the Starbucks on Red Wolf is reduced to being just an occasional luxury now, budget constraints and all have burst routines.”
“Shocking” Susan’s expression brightens. “So from where are you placing this call now?”
“My vehicle” Andy glances around. “In the library parking lot. I’ve become a patron conducting video calls from his Chevrolet Trailblazer.”
“At minimum you’re dedicated to the aesthetic.”
Perspiring, Andy continues “I researched window units online countless times but never actually purchased one. I keep thinking summer will end and the money for the purchase can be better spent on something far more important”
“Such as?”
After pausing, Andy watches Krishna blink and crinkle her nose before sneezing “like something that actually realizes more than what can be known by what is on a screen that is less vivid than my memories of 2003.”
Softening Susan says “Andy.”
“I understand, I understand. Two and a half months have passed, and I’m behaving as though it’s been a whole year. But honestly? Everything feels as if I’m merely marking time until I see you again. Which seems absurd because I’m fifty-two, not thirty.”
“Perhaps the ridiculous aspect” Susan determines “is thinking age alters how you feel about someone who matters.”
Smiling Andy says “see? This explains why I miss you. You voice things that make my overthinking mind actually quiet down for five seconds.”
“Five complete seconds? I’m improving.”
“The truth is ” Andy’ reveals earnestly, “I keep attempting to escape the bootstrap paradox of becoming deserved by having career momentum, perfect study schedules, and financial discipline.”
Susan sniffles slightly and Andy’s expression shifts with concern “are you getting sick?”
“Just allergies” she waves it off. “You don’t need to prove anything, Andy.”
“ You’re speaking with a man who’s conducting important life conversations from a parking area because he’s too stubborn to purchase an air conditioner.”
“I adore that you’re too obstinate to buy one” Susan says warmly. “It’s very characteristic of you.”
“Is that a compliment or a diagnosis?”
“Both. When will our talks be liberated?”
Andy declares “It is an ERA provision.”
“That sounds like progress” Susan says with a gentle smile.
“The last two and a half months have magnified my yearning” Andy admits. “I could expertly compose a dissertation.”
Teasingly Susan suggests “another reason for the library to budget those repairs ”
“You just solved my motivation problem. Advanced Studies in Missing Susan , it’ll be groundbreaking research.”
“I’ll serve as your primary source.”
More seriously Andy continues “you know what’s not foolish? Feeling like the person on this screen represents the most important part of my day. Every single day.”
Warmly Susan replies “you know what you need to do, Andy. Trust yourself with this.”
The call ends.
