You’re So Pretty

The wait felt excruciating for Jamal. He fidgeted in his seat, bouncing his leg and chewing his bottom lip.

Finally, the phone buzzed in Andy's hand, the notification announcing a video call. "It's her!" she exclaimed, a wide grin splitting her face.

Jamal, who had been bouncing on the balls of his feet with anticipation, practically shoved himself into Andy's lap. The screen flickered to life, revealing a woman with a stern looking face, followed by a small girl with bright hazel eyes and a head full of dark curls.

Jamal's face lit up like a Christmas tree when he saw her face, "Dawn?" Jamal boomed into the receiver, his voice a stark contrast to the tiny, hesitant voice that came through on the other end.

Dawn's eyes widened as she saw Jamal. "Jamal?" Dawn's voice was barely a whisper, laced with a shyness that made Andy grin.

"Dawn! Is that really you?" Jamal's voice practically vibrated with excitement as he waved enthusiastically.