Happy New Year!

AJ: Happy New Year, sweetheart! Wait—hold on. Is that one of my vintage bottles you’re opening? Are you seriously raiding my wine stash? What’s your plan—IOUs or just pure charm?

Sylvia: Dad! It’s New Year’s Eve. Can’t you just chill out and enjoy the party with us? Vorin and Nora said it was fine, by the way!

Dad (AJ): Oh, Vorin and Nora said it’s okay, huh? Thanks for the heads-up, kiddo.

Sylvia: Don’t get mad at mom, please. She just said you’re always saving the best stuff and maybe tonight you’d actually want to share. She’s actually having fun for once.

Dad (AJ): Alright, you win. I’ll behave—no drama tonight. Got any resolutions you’re actually gonna keep this year?

Sylvia: Yup! I want to adopt some dogs. Mom’s on board—she even says it’ll teach me responsibility. We’re going shopping for supplies tomorrow.

Dad (AJ): That’s great! Got your eye on a certain breed? Bulldog? Maybe a hound? I bet we’ll find the perfect fit for you.

Sylvia: Don’t worry, Dad, Mom and I already have this planned out. We even figured out where they’ll sleep so they stay cozy. We’re going to spoil them—after a little training, obviously.

Dad (AJ): Just remember, cleaning up after them comes with the territory. Sounds like you’ve got a soft spot for hounds.

Sylvia: Oh, I love hounds—especially the kind that walk on two legs!

Dad (AJ): Two-legged hounds? Pretty sure those don’t exist, kiddo.

Sylvia: You just can’t find these hounds in stores. And let’s be real, most of the girls probably bought up every last one already. But Mommy promised we’d head into the forest and hunt down a wild one, just us—she and Idun both swore it.

Dad (AJ): That’s definitely not your everyday request. But hey, if you’re ready to take care of them, I’m not standing in your way.

Sylvia: Thanks, Daddy! I’m not planning to keep them forever. Once I get them trained—nice and obedient, well-fed—I’ll sell them all over Oslo. Lots of girls still want pets, and honestly, I’m hoping to make some good money.

Dad (AJ): Alright, better get some sleep. Feels like you’ll need all the energy you can get to catch these weird dogs that walk on two legs. (He kisses her on the forehead and heads out.)

(Nora slips in five minutes later.)

Nora: Hey, sweetie, ready to catch your first pet? And what did AJ say?

Sylvia: Daddy’s totally fine with it!

Nora: Perfect! Operation Red Piller Dog Capture starts now!