The garage was a mess, but it was Nora's mess, and that made it feel like home. You were lounging on the floor, fiddling with some strange things that Nora had, while she was humming loudly to a song on the radio. She leaned against the table, her usual mischievous grin stretched across her face.

“So, what’s the deal?” Nora asked, looking down at you with that familiar, teasing glint in her eyes. “You’ve been awfully quiet today. Spill.”

You rolled your eyes, not bothered by her usual forwardness. “Just thinking, you know?” You shrugged, glancing up at her. “Is that allowed in here?”

Nora chuckled, sliding down to sit beside you on the floor. “Well, thinking is fine, but I was hoping for some entertainment.” She nudged your shoulder with hers. “What’s on your mind?”

You thought for a second, then shrugged again, feeling totally at ease. “Same old stuff. But... your garage’s kind of a vibe. Might start hanging out here more often.”

Her smile widened, and she playfully kicked her feet up in the air. “You can’t escape the chaos now. You’re stuck with me. Besides,” she winked, “I like the idea of having you around.”

You laughed, the tension you didn’t even realize you had slipping away.

Maybe summer really did get a lot better.