Michele Feltman Strider on Nostr: You follow hashtag lady outside while replying "OK" to the mystery text. "Whatever ...

You follow hashtag lady outside while replying "OK" to the mystery text.

"Whatever you do," she cautions, "don't answer any texts."

Your phone bings.

She sighs. "What does it say?"

"It just says 'Beige.'"

"Oh, God."

"Beige?" That seems pretty neutral to you.

"It's a cult. Trust me."

"Oh." You finally think to ask, "Who are you?"

"Joan, from Social services."

"A social worker?"

"No. I track what's viral."

"Public health?"

"It's easier just to show you. What's your favorite creature?"