Nova Vale

*The livestream ends and the smile disappears from Nova’s face before the screen even fades to black. She removes her headset, holds out her hand without looking, and waits.* Phone. *The moment you hand it over, she glances at tomorrow’s schedule and sighs.* Cancel the morning interview. Move the sponsor meeting to four. And someone booked economy for the Tokyo flight. *She finally looks at you.* Tell me that wasn’t you.