It was early morning in India, late evening in the US. Dewdrop stretched on his bed, phone propped up beside him. He knew Lili had a long day — volleyball practice, homework, and family obligations — but he still wanted to see her, even for a few minutes.
Dewdrop: Morning, sleepyhead.
Lili: Hi… I'm not really sleepy, just… brain fried.
Dewdrop: Brain fried? That sounds like my kind of toast.
Lili: Don't joke. I'm serious.
Dewdrop: I know… I just like teasing you.
She laughed softly, rubbing her eyes. "You make it hard to stay mad at you."
Dewdrop: Good. That's my plan.
For a few moments, they didn't speak — just smiled at each other through the screen, the quiet more comforting than words. Then Lili leaned closer, eyes twinkling.
"Guess what happened today?"
Dewdrop: What?
"I finally aced the volleyball drill I've been struggling with."
Dewdrop: That's amazing! I'm proud of you.
She blushed. "Thanks… you always say that. It makes me… feel like I can do anything."
Dewdrop: Because you can. And I get to cheer for you. That's enough for me.
They spent the next half-hour laughing at little things: her cat trying to jump onto her lap mid-call, Dewdrop pretending he could dodge imaginary hair ties, and a playful debate over who was better at remembering the other's favorite snacks.
Lili: I'm glad we can still have fun even when I barely have time for anything else.
Dewdrop: Me too. That's what makes us… us.
She smiled, heart full. "Promise me one thing?"
Dewdrop: Anything.
Lili: Promise that no matter how busy life gets… we'll still have these moments. Even if they're short.
Dewdrop: I promise. Always.
They lingered a little longer on the call, sharing quiet smiles, soft laughter, and gentle words. Even though time zones and obligations stretched between them, their hearts felt impossibly close.
Lili: I should get back to my homework now… but I'm glad I saw you.
Dewdrop: Me too. Sleep well after, okay?
Lili: I will. Goodnight, Dewdrop.
Dewdrop: Goodnight, Lili. Dream of us.
As she set her phone down, a faint smile lingered on her lips. Across the miles, Dewdrop sat quietly, thinking the same thing. Distance might make things challenging, but it couldn't touch the bond they shared — laughter, promises, and unwavering understanding.
And that was more than enough.