Experiment of Madness

31-A Dance of Denial and Frustration-Dag

Sitting at my desk, I take a moment to write down notes about Aerra's recent episode of psychosis, adding to the growing pile of observations and insights. The light from the desk lamp casts a soft glow on the papers as I jot down my thoughts, my focus solely on trying to understand and document her struggles.

I continue jotting down notes, trying to organize my thoughts and observations, and the quiet scratching of the pen filling the room. My mind is occupied with the notes, and my focus narrowed to the task at hand, trying to understand and make sense of Aerra's condition.

I chuckle lightly to myself, still watching her watch the show. The thought crosses my mind that the show isn't accurately based on real medicine. It's not exactly realistic, yet she enjoys it nonetheless, finding entertainment in it.

A comment breaks the silence. "Derek is really handsome," Aerra remarks, her eyes still fixed on the screen.

I ask for clarification, my eyes flicking back and forth between her and the show, "Who?"

She points at the television screen, pointing specifically at the character Derek, who is on screen, "Him," she explains, her finger indicating the character.

I take a moment to observe the character on the screen. Dark hair, blue eyes, a seemingly stupid and charming smile. The description matches the character, and I can't help but wonder if that's her ideal type or just an observation of physical attributes.

The thought of her being only fourteen crosses my mind, my protective instincts kicking in. She's so young, and it feels too early for her to have a preferred type already.

I gently interrupt her, taking a moment to address the topic. "You're just fourteen, you know. You shouldn't be thinking about your type," My words are gentle but firm, expressing both concern and a protective side.

Aerra seems to bristle at my comment, her eyes still fixed on the screen, her expression defiant. She retorts, her words a mix of annoyance and stubbornness, "I'm old enough to like whoever I want."

I hold her gaze, my eyes locking with hers, my expression firmer. "No, you're not. You're too young," I repeat, my tone more assertive, making it clear that I won't budge on this matter.

A bit frustrated, she confronts me, her words a defiant challenge, "What's wrong with me?" She questions, her tone tinged with a hint of annoyance.

Her response triggers my own response, and I respond in a sharper tone, "You're still a child,"  my words trying to emphasize the truth, "and it's too early for you to be thinking about romantic preferences."

A shift in topic, Aerra's focus now on something sweet as she rolls her eyes and makes a simple demand, "I don't have chocolate more," she says.

I push back from my desk, standing from my chair. "I'll bring you more,"

As I walk out of the room and proceed downstairs, I overhear Finn and Fane having a conversation, their words catching my attention. The mention of Devil's Night sparks my curiosity.

As I walk out of the room and proceed downstairs, I overhear Finn and Fane having a conversation, their words catching my attention. The mention of Devil's Night sparks my curiosity.

"Don't count me in this one. I'm going to New York." Octavia grins.
Finn responds to Octavia's statement with a question, "Why are you even going to New York?"

Fane signs and says, "Dad has work there, and my backstabbing evil twin is going with him,"  Finn watches him, trying to contain her laughter at his dramatic attitude.

Sasha smiles.

Finn sighs as Octavia tries to persuade her to join them. "Uncle Kai is going too. Why don't you come with us, Finn?" she inquires, suggesting her join the New York trip. Finn's mood doesn't change. She responds a little annoyed, "Nope, no, I don't want to go.I don't want to miss Devil's night. But you must be happy you'll see your brother and cousin." Finn grins.