dig my way out of the ocean

Spider squints at the pale figure as it settles beside them, needing a moment before their brain registers the presence as familiar. “oh. hey, Ig.” their voice is raspy and flat, a far cry from their usual enthusiasm. they glance down at the aforementioned book, scarcely able to make out the title. “y’re al’ways readin’ books, aren’t cha?” they slur, a crooked little smile hiking up one corner of their mouth and slipping away a second later. “‘m not the best company at the moment, Iggy. Igster.” but looking into their friends eager face softens them, and their next words are softer. gentler. “al’right. show me this…” what’re they called again? “book.”

"Speech"