Page 14 of The Boss Omega

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CoffeeGuy789:I’m learning to get used to it.

Omega219:You didn’t grow up in a pack house?

CoffeeGuy789:No. Just me and my mom.

I wait a few seconds before sending anothermessage.

CoffeeGuy789:Did you grow up in a pack?

Omega219:I did. One dad. Two moms.

Omega219:I miss it.

CoffeeGuy789:Do you go home to visit?

The typing bubble pops up, then disappears. I hold my breath, willing her to answer.

Omega219:My parents passed. It’s just me.

I sit up straighter.

CoffeeGuy789:I’m sorry.

It feels inadequate.

Omega219:It was sudden. Car accident.

I grip the phone harder.

CoffeeGuy789:My mom, too.

CoffeeGuy789:Eight months ago.

Omega219:That sucks.

CoffeeGuy789:Yeah.

Omega219:Are you okay?

CoffeeGuy789:I’m fine.

It’s automatic.

Habit.

I decide to be honest.

CoffeeGuy789:Depends on the day, I guess.

Omega219:I get that.

Neither of us type for a few minutes. I assume she’s done with the conversation when a new message pops up.

Omega219:What made you sign up?

I stare at the screen.

Money. Replenishing my wiped out savings account. Two months without overtime.

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