This is definitely different from what I've seen before from you, brother. Is this in any way connected to your short story? The way you crafted the dialogue here is not what I was used to, but it's equally great. What can I say that I haven't said before? I'm a huge fan of how you craft your characters and their dynamics. Truly an example to follow.
You've already built such a huge following here, and it's only continuing to grow. I've said it months ago, and now it's coming to fruition. You truly are on a level that can't be reached anymore. I'm proud of what you've accomplished! :D
My bro! Thank you so much. I've got a lot riding on this one. And yes, let's just say the original "short story" was something of a prologue to the main one. I'm attempting to put a lot of emphasis of character development early on so thank you very much for noticing that.
I'm privileged to be part of this awesome group and indeed in the company of such greats as yourself. I can only hope that you produce another work similar to your other masterpiece A Day In The Clouds. Though with your life being so busy at the moment, I guess we'll have to wait a while. But I'm nobody special. Just a guy learning the ropes of life and trying to attain a better level of writing as we all are. And you are one of those I get huge inspiration from. Never forget that and know your worth for how great it actually is.
Bless you, my brother! :)