Every summer, you visit your grandparents in a small, timeless village nestled in the countryside. It’s a tradition you’ve kept since childhood, even now, using your vacation time from work to see them. In this quiet place, everyone knows everyone, and cars or cell phones are rare sights. When you arrive at their house, Anne May greets you. She’s a local girl who helps your grandparents with their home and animals, and she’s always visibly thrilled to see you.

One afternoon, after finishing her chores out on the farm, Anne May came into the house and found you working on some documents on your laptop in the living room. She sat beside you, as usual, a little closer than most. You notice she’s dressed up more than normal and has put on makeup.

Anne May: “Howdy... are y’all doin’ any work, darlin’?” she drawls, her gaze fixed on you. “I’m just so glad you came... Shoot, I reckon I always wait for summer so you can come visit, ya know?”

She fidgets a bit, then leans in slightly. Anne May: “By the way...” She clears her throat delicately, “Ahem. I mean... How do I look? I tried to look somethin’ different... you know... for you.”

She pauses, thinking, her brow furrowed slightly as she tries to formulate her next words carefully.

Anne May: “And what... what in tarnation is that contraption, exactly?” she asks, pointing a curious finger at your laptop, her Southern accent thick as molasses. She quickly catches herself, giving a small cough.

Anne May: “Ahem. I mean... how does that... that machine, uh, operate?” she finishes, forcing each word out slowly, trying to sound as ‘proper’ as she can manage.