>>67873531>The first thing she notices is the bottle. An empty wine bottle.>The next thing she notices is their eyes. God, they look tired. REALLY tired.>Not tired like Uncle Randy after a long day in the office, or Damien after football.>...Tired like when she used to look in the mirror when it all got too much. The empty kind of tired.>She doesn't realize she's staring until Mr Nito finally turns to look at her."...Hm?"
>Suddenly, she's self-conscious again."Oh, uh, sorry. I, ah... I was just wondering if Inco had mentioned me, is all. You didn't seem very... surprised."
>The television dominates the conversation as she waits for a response. It feels like minutes pass before he looks down and his eyebrows raise.>...Did they not notice the wheelchair? How tired are they?"No. He never mentioned you."
>She began to fidget in her chair. This is... wrong. If Inco's first visit to the Payne's was a break-in without any introductions, he'd be kicked to the curb with a broken arm."So, then...? You're just cool with me...?"
>The missus pipes up this time, her voice just as drained as the patriarch's."Inco's very independent. We trust his judgement."
>The woman couldn't help but glance down at the mobility device as she said that last word. As the two adults turn their attention back to their program, she grimaces in discomfort.>This isn't right. Parents shouldn't be like this."...Independent?"
>The woman nods."Since he was a kid. Never got upset when work called us away, always quick to adjust to moving or figuring out things on his own. He'll do well in life."
>Her breath hitches. None of that sounds like Inco. Do they know their son?>There's a bit of agitation in the matron as she shifts the topic. Doesn't have the time or energy to deal with a kid right now."I'm sure you have plans together tonight, right? His room is just down the hall. Just don't be too loud, and be responsible. We've had a long night, so sorry if we're not much for chatting."
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