Then get one of the robo-vacuums to remove your deceased roommate.
AUGUSTA PINE
I found a different place. Short-term rental. I’ll even use my sad excuse for a stipend to pay for it.
PREFECT
It’s only three days.
AUGUSTA PINE
Come on. I was stuck on that bus for, like, twenty-five hours. And there are blackouts scheduled this weekend. The moment the power goes out, I’ll be trapped in an AC-less motel room with a dead raccoon quietly baking in the bathtub. Even I don’t deserve that.
PREFECT
And this place you found is so much better?
AUGUSTA PINE
It has a pool.
PREFECT
You don’t swim.
AUGUSTA PINE
Yeah but I really like that chlorine smell.
PREFECT
[Audible sigh]
AUGUSTA PINE
I’m eighteen now. Technically you don’t have to babysit me anymore. Other handlers don’t babysit their wraiths.
PREFECT
You’re a walking liability.
AUGUSTA PINE
I know, that’s what you put in my birthday card last month.
PREFECT
Fine. Send me the address.
AUGUSTA PINE
Don’t pretend you aren’t looking at my tracker. You know exactly where I am.
[CALL ENDED]
3
At night, the city of Portland glows.
