Three years ago, I added this bird character to my comics as a way to cope with my pandemic anxiety. Now, our avian friends find themselves in a similar situation. But with a much higher toll. It got me thinking back to those early, uncertain days of COVID. This bird helped me make it through. I figured I should return the favor.
Transcript
Panel 1 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Night
Kevin is asleep in bed. His bird stands on top of him.
Bird
Hey. Are you awake? I can’t sleep.
Kevin (sleepy)
Hmm? Sure. What’s up?
Panel 2 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
The bird continues.
Bird (anxious)
I can’t stop thinking about this bird flu epidemic. It’s killed fifty-eight million birds already.
Kevin
Yeah. It’s really sad, isn’t it?
Panel 3 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
The bird continues.
Bird
Am I going to get it?
Kevin
Not if you stay here with me.
Panel 4 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
The bird says nothing. Kevin smiles sympathetically.
Kevin
…Wow. No joke?
Panel 5 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
Kevin smiles
Kevin
You’re supposed to say, “I’d rather get the virus…”
Panel 6 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
The bird looks sheepish.
Bird
Sorry. Guess I’m a little pre-occupied. Can I sleep in your room tonight?
Kevin
Of course!
Panel 7 : Int. Kevin’s Bedroom – Continuous
Kevin’s bird curls up in the small of Kevin’s neck, still worried. Kevin looks on, concerned.
