#elsewhere

"Ah, you miss that atmopshere" His father says "I can understand that"

"I'm glad I was able to clarify."

"How are things in New Jersey?"

"Challenging" he says "The Covid has affected even advertising. Things we thought were constants to market are now canceling.. a lot of commericals are putting masks in there to set a good example.. charities are hurting because people.. well, middle class and under, have less to give so I'm trying to be inspirational or entertaining with what we do put out and hoping I don't offend anyone"

Adam nods. "I haven't watched TV in a while but I can see where it would be challengeing."

"That's part of it right there. A lot of TV watchers are older than I am" he says "So we're doing it in streaming.. youtube, web pages, other things. Hmm Adamm maybe I should run ideas past you. Gen Z outlook"

"I'm not sure I could offer any real help."

"Well, maybe you could help me kickstart my own head." he ponders "it was a thought. Okay, what's going WELL for you ?"

Adam glances at the GrandDame. "I have been enjoying my mentor's lessons."

"Oh how sweet" Darcy says "Adam's fae studies are going well.. there's one area, where he hit a bump but we're getting around that. I can say he's been a gem to teach on my end. "

"Thank you, GrandDame."

"Please, here it's grandma darcy" She says then looks at Kyle "I love him saying it"

A grin. "Grandma Darcy."

Things unwind, and chat goes easy. his parents catch up, and seem happy and Adam .. MIGHT just drop his guard and start smiling at them naturally

There are a few flickers, which he tamps down; a single afternoon/evening doesn't change much. He -does- keep an eye on his parent's interactions.