Dreams Before Family
I sent a voice message to a pinned contact with a grayscale profile.
“Mom, I nailed the audition.
“The orchestra conductor said they have room in the dorms, so I’ll be moving over tonight.
“I’ll be on my own now, Mom. Don’t you worry.”
The text was sent successfully, but a reply would never come.
Out of habit, I took out my obsolete phone and texted myself a “you did great” emoji before packing my bags.
The lights downstairs were killed, and ten minutes later, a car pulled up outside the manor.