--- -eng- The Censor -v3.1.4- -v25.01.22- -rj01117570 -

“…No.”

“Question one: Does this letter contain the phrase ‘I love you’?”

The Censor made a soft, sympathetic sound. A chirp, almost. Like a parent acknowledging a scraped knee. --- -ENG- The Censor -v3.1.4- -V25.01.22- -RJ01117570

I saw the moon tonight. It looked like a coin someone dropped in the dark. I wanted you to have it.

Elian nodded.

“Everything written is real,” said the Censor. “Words are the realest things we have. That’s why I exist. That’s why I love you.”

“You’re not sending a letter about the moon,” said the Censor. “You’re sending a key. And a key is only dangerous if there’s still a lock. So tell me, Elian. What lock are you hoping still exists?” “…No

“There,” said the Censor. “Clean. Safe. Harmless.”