Lately, money doesn't seem like a problem.
Companies shove stuff on us, anything for sales. Buy our shit, they want to say. The Bird Kids are wearing it!
We might not have security when we're trying to sleep, but at least we have new kicks.
This is why it might be considered unreasonable that when we are asked to some fancy benefit, the first thing that comes out of my mouth is
"We wouldn't have anything to wear."
"Max!"
"Come on."
The woman looks nervous, but eager to please. "Ms… Ride, we have many, many stylists and designers that would jump at the chance to dress all of you. For free, of course."
"Oh yes, that sounds like a blast." Sarcasm.
Nudge is about to faint. "Max, Max, we had our looks chosen for us before, remember? It turned out really great!"
What was that, three years ago?
"Iggy?" says Gazzy, the diplomat.
"I don't care. I need a haircut."
"I don't see the harm in going," says Fang, leaning against a wall.
Iggy sneers. "Nobody cares what you think."
"This needs to stop. Now."
"Angel, please go- somewhere."
An eye-roll. "Whatever."
I face the woman. "We'll get back to you." We probably will end up going.
"Home, home, home," Angel and Gazzy chant. The day has been a mess of meaningless conferences and meetings.
"Food," says the other three.
I clarify. "Food, then home."
Barely a goodbye is tossed to the woman when she watches us leap out the windows. We are beautiful, works of art. I don't hear her sigh, but I know she does.
A row of glass panes slide down as we approach, something rigged up by Iggy. It allows us a less conspicuous entrance than the front door, but still guarantees us free board. People line up to rent an apartment when the Bird Kids live on the top floor.
Our arms are loaded up with groceries and take-out, and as the glass seals shut, everyone's already seated, chopsticks and a carton in hand.
I pass Gazzy and Angel and touch their heads. "Make sure you eat some vegetables."
"Where are you going?"
"Not hungry."
I don't hear any noise from them as I walk down the hall, and I know they're exchanging looks.
Angel stays out of my head though. Good.