Behind the Facade

Ronan rapidly typed on his encrypted phone, dramatizing his current situation in the text chat with his mother.

*Mother dearest, has my most beloved brother fallen asleep yet?*

He stared at the glowing screen, imagining her sitting in a warm, safe house. He pictured her replying that his twin was awake, and then he would ask if his brother was cute, only to be told they were busy tallying their