"Friends?" Nell quirked an eyebrow at Troy, then grinned. "I had three older brothers and I grew up in a house that, while a close enough drive to Hartford, literally had woods for a backyard. All I had to do was climb over the deck railing and it was 'Hello, Karen Alywood' minus space aliens and Bette Davis. I had dirt, trees, electronics, computers, piano lessons, books, UConn girls basketball on Saturdays, and ladies' tea with the DAR on Sundays."
Meeting Troy's look over the top of the laptop screen, she nodded. "If you're sure. Final score: USF 65, Cal Bears 54." Closing the computer, she picked up the toolbox and stood up. "And on that note, I think our new Dark Phoenix deserves some ice cream and cookies. Anyone else who wants some while I'm in the kitchen, speak now or forever hold your peace."