The morning sunlight filtered through the bathroom window, casting soft shadows on the tiled walls as August stood under the warm spray of the shower.
He let the water wash away the fatigue from his night in Enders Light. Using a low-grade pod was usually more tasking on the body and mind when one lingered for longer than six hours in the game.
August savored the rare moment of peace. He had pushed himself hard in the game, from battles with shadowy creatures to tense encounters in Tavirah. As the steam filled the small bathroom, he closed his eyes and mentally sorted through the plans he'd need to tackle for the day.
A sudden voice pulled him from his thoughts. "Auggie, I'm heading out!" Sophia's cheerful tone drifted through the door, cutting through the sound of running water.
August smirked, calling back with a warm edge of teasing, "Don't cause any trouble, you little genius!"