IC CONTACT.

[justgo]

It's Tess. State your business and give me time to get back to you.

[ beep. ]

Comments

[vaccination]

I don't have any complaints if you don't.

[She smiles, a little. She never got the impression that Tess hated her for what happened, or hated her for not yet being the cure the world needed. But this is nice, and Ellie likes the feeling of leaning against someone. For a moment, some of the weight is lifted.]

[justgo]

Now why do you think I'm asking? [A snort as she jostles Ellie a little to tease, the squeeze she gives afterward meant to be more comforting than anything. Ellie shouldn't have to bear any of this alone, not at her age, not ever. (Neither should Joel, but. That's another can of worms.)]