Rupert came out onto the balcony. “Give me back my daughter!” the voice came from the house across the street. “Sir, please just accept me!” “I will when you die!” “Rebecca’s happy with me.” “Happiness is overrated!” “I am faithful.” “So’s a dog. Doesn’t mean you marry it.” “Then, you are a dog too!” “…” “…” “Annie, dear, where is my rifle?” “Rebecca, honey, is the gate closed?” It wasn't.

As soon as Hank entered the room, Gretchen smiled. “You are back,” she said. “How was work?” “Hectic,” Hank replied. “Dinner?” “I wish I could ask that.” “You will,” Hank said, hugging her. “First, get better. ” Next day, Hank stood dressed in his suit. “Have a nice day at the office,” Gretchen said. Hank left, smiling. Outside, he locked the door and faced a crumbling wasteland. He walked, unafraid.

>Hey, Sonia >How are you? >I hope you are okay >God, it's been so long >I don't even know if you open this >I miss you, you know >It’s been five years since the war >I just hope you are okay >but maybe you are gone >or it’s the internet that’s down >so when you see this if you see this >send a reply, ok? >I miss you

“Stevie, you leaving?” “Stay, hotshot. Drink with us.” Steve smiled apologetically and disappeared. A little later, he sat at an old diner. “Look who's here!” “Hello, Margaret.” “Steve, I heard. Congratulations!” “It's nothing.” “Starving?” “Yep!” “You're all the rage, you know?” “Pssh, exaggerations.” “Well, I am proud of you.” “...Thank you.” “Thought you'd be at one of those fancy restaurants.” “I like it here better.” “Really?” “Yes. You know me.”