I failed at finding Claire today.

I was close, but you were faster, mystery guy.

Except you aren't mystery guy anymore, are you?

At least not as much as before.

So, why didn't you wait for me, Zachary?

This is Spines.

Music me, Zachary. This is Spines. I've been wondering about my age lately. I look in the mirror and I'm just not sure.

Medium height, medium build.

Short, dark brown bob that I think might be kind of young and hip,

but who knows, I could also just be a really hip soccer mom.

My face seems to be of someone in their 20s, but then again, maybe I'm 18 and I've just had a

rough life. That's plausible. Or maybe I'm 40 and I just used to be a vegan who exercised a lot

and always used sunscreen. I'm pretty sure I was never a vegan, though. I like burgers

way too much. For right now, I'm calling myself 25 and though. I like burgers way too much.

For right now, I'm calling myself 25 and hoping that's not wildly misrepresenting myself in either direction.

Two important emails today.

One had the subject line, sweating diamonds.

It said, that memory of making gems was mine, you fucking bitch. That was mine.

It was signed Sage.

I tried to email her back, but she hasn't responded.

Sage, if you're listening, I'm sorry I took something that was yours.

I didn't mean to, and I don't know how it happened.

...