Chapter 17

Astera is lounging in his bedroom, phone in hand, fingers flying over the screen as he texts Nalea. The soft glow of the screen lights up his face.

ASTERA (thinking):
Finally, something normal.

Suddenly, the door creaks open and Azalea steps in, holding a tray with steaming dishes.

ASTERA:
Astera, come eat. You’ve been glued to that phone for hours.

Astera glances up, slightly startled.

ASTERA:
Ah, Dad... I’m just texting Nalea. We’re planning to hang out later.

AZALEA (placing the tray down):
That’s nice, but you won’t have the energy if you don’t eat. Food’s on the table. Don’t make me come back here and drag you.

Astera smirks but sets his phone aside and follows Azalea out of the room.

AZALEA (grinning):
And don’t think I won’t do it.

The door closes behind them as Astera mutters good-naturedly: