Playing Phantasy Star Online while Dad Watches Bowling Downstairs

it's a sunday morning in 2003, and you faked being sick to sleep through church. the natural light streaming through the windows bounces off the dust that floats off your off-white carpet. you’re playing phantasy star online on the 10” CRT television that sits on an ikea coffee table in your bedroom. the birds chirp outside. your mom is cooking something for brunch in the kitchen. your dad is watching the PBA bowling tour in the living room downstairs as he settles into his reclining armchair to take a nap.