“Oh, God! I fell asleep. How long was I out?” she asked.

“About five hours. You needed it,” was his reply.

“Oh no! What about you and… ?”

“It’s okay, she knows. We’ve been messaging. She’s waiting in the car…”

“She’s been out there the whole time?”

“What can I say? I guess she loves me!

“…

“Hey, kiddo? I have to tell you. I really like this girl. And she likes me. I never thought anyone would go on an adventure with me. Let alone… her.

“She’s incredible! Beautiful!

“And she’ll do anything for me.

“I don’t know… I don’t know if I like it. I’ve never had anyone love me like she does before. I don’t know what to do!”

Silence.

“Are you awake? I have something to tell you.”

Tears are forming, he goes over to the couch, puts his hand on his niece’s shoulder, and shakes lightly, attempting to wake her.

“Wake up.

“Wake up!” Crying now, “I have to tell you! I have to tell… someone!”

His niece continues to sleep. Exhausted from the all-night going-away party. He collapses in tears, no longer able to control his emotions and love for the woman in the car.

FADE OUT