YOU'VE GOT MAIL.
FROM: Andrew Patterson <apatterson@gmail.com>
SUBJECT: News.
( You have (1) new email )
TO: j.kelly@medcohealth.com
FROM: malcolm.kelly@nyu.edu
SUBJECT: Birthday.
ATTACHED: birthday.mov
Video opens, gradually focuses on a tabletop scene. The wood surface is bare but for a plate of homemade pastry with a single glowing candle atop it. Malcolm's voice sounds from behind the camera:
Just wanted to show you what Mom and I made for the nineteenth anniversary of Alejandro.
Laughter rings out from behind the camera, this time from a third party. The camera shakes as Malcolm joins in for a moment, then steadies himself, voice still mild but turning more serious. But really. It's crazy to think that the last time we saw you, you were still in your forties. Now you're turning fifty-two. This is a whole new decade we're missing. And -- Malcolm trails off. You know what, it's your birthday, so we'll just leave it at that.
Camera expertly circles low around the table, gradually revealing his mother sitting at the opposite end. She smiles and waves. Just know how much you're on our minds today. We're sure the sachertorte is a lot better than what we had to work with -- His mom slowly shakes her head, as if to indicate 'not much' -- But we're thinking of you, enjoying the strudel on your behalf, wishing you could be here to finish it off with us.
Video shakes again as Malcolm turns the lens on himself, adding a wave of his own. Happy birthday, Dad. Hope you're having a good one, even if we can't be there.
Papa, I have some very good news for you.
There is talk that they might open the borders for the United States football team to go to Chennai.
Could you please try to arrange it so that I can go with them? I could be home. I haven't spoken Tamil in years, and I know I never spoke it well. But I can pretend enough, and stupid Americans would not even notice my accent. You can make up an identity for me, tell them that I was a reporter or something for the India team. Maybe they will let me go with them.
There are still eight episodes to film, but they can just kill off my character when I go missing.
Papa, this may be my only chance. I know you can do it. I need to be with you and Mama, and to meet and kiss my dear niece and nephew. Please help me. I will do anything to be home.
Kisses,
Yamya
Voice and Piano Teacher Needed: "WANTED: A patient tutor to instruct my blossoming starlet in the art of vocal and instrumental talents. Help make my baby go from double threat to triple threat! SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY."
Spring break is finally here, and ever since I've been in NY I haven't let myself get away for a break, but I've decided that as a senior, I ought to let myself have a bit of fun. So, I will be heading to DC on Sunday for the next week. Anyway, I'll have my phone with me. So you'll still be able to get in touch with me. Try to keep the city riot-free while I'm gone! ;) Love, Aubrey |
TELL me you're getting to come, too?! We just have to try and get an interview. Plus, you know I need you at my side in DC. I'll be lost without you. Love, Aubrey |