“They sent over the list of new arrivals,” said Plate, scrolling through his phone.

“Nice! I’ll pick up the package after lunch.”

Needle stretched and paced around the living room before heading back to the bedroom — her workspace of choice. Big windows filled the room with light, her favorite mug sat nearby, and everything was wrapped in quiet. She put on her headphones and joined a Zoom call. The day’s tasks moved along as usual: a quick check-in with the team, familiar faces, rapid-fire questions and answers.

Meanwhile, Plate was unpacking a box of records. He flipped through the sleeves, inspected the contents, and set up the lighting for a fresh batch of photos.

“Look at this beauty!”

“I’m on a meeting — later,” came the reply from behind the half-closed door.

There was still a long road ahead to bring their dream to life. But the air was already charged with quiet excitement — and the sense that change was just around the corner.