Hello @hazmat,
I was impressed with your writing skill as I read this. The voice of the narrator is persuasive and moving. Although the complication (Emily's death) is not a unique plot line, your treatment is distinctive. The subtlety of your approach, your balance between positive and negative, is expertly crafted.

I've personally gifted you 2 HSBI tokens in acknowledgement of my appreciation for this story's quality.

Well done.