You can— [ The smallest sigh, beleaguered in that way where he’s pretty sure she’s yanking his chain. (Once upon a time, it had been easier to read the mood between them.) ] Y’know you can still call me Stephen, right? Your first name privileges haven’t been revoked. But yes, I suppose your time starts now.

Have you been hearing this thing on the crystals? The new arrivals who claim we’re supposed to know them.