"I've just had a long day and was hoping for one of your famous burgers," I said to my mom, hoping that my comment would elicit the desired response. She remained silent, leaving me uncertain about how she would react.
"So, Justin, hunny, how was school today?" my mom asked, trying to engage in conversation. I replied with a nonchalant shrug, hoping to deter her from probing further. My mind was preoccupied with thoughts of my phone and the ongoing conversation with TBD.
As my mom began recounting her day, I half-listened, my attention drifting to the vibrations of my phone hidden under the table. Karen, her cellmate and a self-proclaimed candle fanatic, had apparently brought in some exclusive wax melts from a store that only existed in one corner of the state. I couldn't help but tune out, my mind already consumed by the mysterious connection I had found online.
Feeling scattered, I contemplated my next move. Should I respond to Ethan's message or wait for TBD's reply? I checked my phone, ignoring Ethan's message for the time being, and reread my previous messages to TBD. I had chosen to remain anonymous, not wanting to reveal my true identity until I was sure of the person on the other end. Caution was necessary in these situations, especially after an encounter with Tiffany Swindleback, whose manipulative ways had left a lasting impact.
The name 'River' in my messages was a nod to my family's history in Springcreek, the suburban town that housed our lives. Nestled in the heart of Sunset Valley, Springcreek struck a balance between meeting residents' needs and maintaining a tight-knit community. In the past, the town had been known for its fresh spring water, which flowed through its center.
Despite waiting a few more minutes, TBD's reply seemed elusive. Letting out a sigh of defeat, I reluctantly put my phone away, resigning myself to wait a little longer. But just as I began to lose hope, my phone vibrated once again, and a grin spread across my face. The message was from TBD, and it sparked a surge of excitement within me.
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I couldn't contain my enthusiasm as I read TBD's message. Discovering our shared love for Marvel brought a newfound connection. The Marvel films and comics had been a source of solace for me during the past few months, providing a level of understanding that others couldn't comprehend. I silently thanked the universe that TBD wasn't a DC fan, as that would have cut short this burgeoning adventure. My appreciation for Marvel extended beyond the movies; it represented a lifeline for me, a world where I found solace and strength.
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Moreover, the fact that TBD understood the weight of keeping secrets made me feel understood. The burden of concealing my true self had become almost unbearable at times. In just an hour of conversation, I had opened up more than I had in years, despite not knowing TBD's true identity.
I quickly composed a response, hiding my phone under the table to ensure my mom wouldn't see. It felt liberating to finally have someone to talk to, to share my thoughts and fears without judgment or fear of consequences.
As I finished my meal in silence, my mother's disapproving glances only served as a reminder of the secrecy I carried. Once I cleared my plate, I excused myself and headed upstairs to my room, ignoring the daggers piercing my back. The allure of the secret connection on my phone was irresistible, and I was eager to continue this newfound chapter in my life.
