Annalise was reading a book on her bed when she heard soft knocks at the door her mom's voice followed, "Annalise, can I talk to you for a second?" The girl sighed as she put her book down, "Sure mom." The door was gently pushed open as her mom came in. She seemed more tired than usual. Her long blue-black hair was in a messy bun, and her piercing gold eyes were dull like rusted metal.

Annalise felt like she knew what it was about and asked, "Is mum okay?" She knew her mum's job kept her away from them and had its risks, but it never stopped her from trying to give Annalise a childhood filled with love and kindness. Her mom looked at her as a frown etched itself on her face as she spoke, "She's okay, Annalise. Her mission had to be extended another week." The teen let out a sigh. Of course, it had to be the week of her dance competition her mission had to be extended. Annalise wiped the small tears that threatened to fall from her eyes when her mom spoke, "She had no choice, you know that." Annalise nodded and picked up her book again as she replied "I know, it just hurts you know that."