It’s a pretty slow day at Grizzco. Dapple is taking their break, sitting in the break room & texting The Undaunted Guardian of Marooner’s Bay. They haven’t stopped thinking about what happened during the last Big Run.
“You’re trying your best, &.. I can respect that.”
That line kept repeating in Dapple’s head over & over again. The Undaunted Guardian had respect.. for Dapple!! They could barely believe it themself. Dapple smiled at the thought of it, that someone as cool & fresh as The Undaunted Guardian would have respect for them.
“Hello, Dapple.”
“EEP! Uh- Hi, Grizz!”
In the midst of Dapple’s daydreaming, Mr. Grizz had entered the break room.
“I hope you’re enjoying your break.”
“I am! Um! Having a great time! Just sitting here! On my phone! Doing nothing!”
Mr. Grizz leaned over, taking a look at what Dapple was doing on their phone.
“Who’s that your messaging?”
“Oh! It’s.. um... a friend!”
“Oh? I haven’t seen them around anywhere in Splatsville.”
“She’s.. um.. from Inkopolis!”
“I see. What’s her name?”
Oh no. Dapple couldn’t just say her title. He’d know she’s a salmonid!
She’s from Marooner’s Bay.. Bay.. Bea? They kind of sound similar???
“Umm.. her name is Bea!”
Dapple smiled nervously as Mr. Grizz thought about what he had just been told. They desperately hoped he wouldn’t question them further. They knew it wouldn’t end well for them if Mr. Grizz ever found out what they were doing.
“..Well, I’m glad you’re making friends.” Mr. Grizz said finally, after a moment of nerve-wracking silence. “Enjoy the rest of your break.”
Dapple let out a sigh of relief as Mr. Grizz left the break room. Their secret was safe for now.