Chapter Text
How long since mother died? How long has father been locking himself in his workshop? How long has it been since I left the house? Maybe I’ll change that today.
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I regret coming outside now. The sun was high in the sky and it was hot. I mean it was almost summer so it was expected. Walking around the city after not going outside for a long time was tiring. The only time I go outside was to run quick errands if my sister couldn’t do it, which was very rare. The loud noises and heat was starting to make feel a little dizzy. I spotted a small cafe from the corner of my eye. It didn’t look like it had a lot of people so I guess I’ll go there.
The air conditioning gently hit my face as I stepped inside. The cafe was small but was cozy in a way, probably because it was quiet except for the background music. I didn’t mind though. I stared at the menu from afar before walking to the counter.
The person behind the counter looked at me, then fixed her posture, even though her posture was already straight. She had long blonde hair that was a little messy and blue eyes that sparkled. Looking at her made me feel calmer inside. She smiled at me then said, “hello, what can I get you?” Even her voice was lovely. It was gentle, soft, and sweet.
I tried to respond but words didn’t come out, probably because I didn’t talk to other people (except for father and my older sister) for who knows how long. I looked at the counter and to my luck there was a mini menu. I pointed at the iced mango green tea. I thought for a second then pointed at the strawberry smoothie for my older sister.
She was the only one I talked to most of the time. Father was always in his workshop anyway so I barely got to talk to him. It was mostly my sister taking care of me. She’s only 2 years older than me but she was forced to bloom so early.
“Alright that will be $9.68.” She was still smiling. How can she smile like that? Her smile was so warm, friendly, and many other good things. Maybe I’ll learn how to smile like her too. I reached for my wallet and gave her the exact amount of money. A receipt printed out and she handed to me. “We will call your number when your order is ready.”
I went to a table in the corner of the cafe and started at the number on the receipt, 143. I look at the girl who was working gracefully, like pink roses.
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####’# black, shiny hair was swaying in the warm summer breeze. Sitting and talking about flowers in her garden.
“Here are pink roses, they symbolize grace, elegance, joy, and a bunch of amazing things!”
I wonder who said that to me?
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“Order 143!”
Already? That’s quick.
My feet were moving to the counter grabbing my order. She handed me the 2 drinks that were in this plastic bag decorated in flowers.
She made eye contact with me and smiled. I nodded back. My face felt a little hot. Maybe it’s the summer heat. I grabbed the bag then headed to leave. As soon as I left, I already didn’t feel good. It’s probably the noise and the people walking around everywhere. I was probably overwhelmed.
My legs started to speed walk back to the subway station. It was about a 30 minute ride, which wasn’t that bad since I’d probably sleep the whole ride. It’s not the best to sleep when you’re by yourself in a crowded place, but what are the chances of getting kidnapped.
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#### is baking. The kitchen smelled heavenly. “Rue. Can you try this batch of cookies.” I looked over at her. She looks pretty, I mean she was always pretty. Her hair is tied up nicely and her clothes always fit her. I can’t say the same for me.
I got up and looked at the tray of cookies. They were chocolate chip. They were a little hot to the touch but I don’t mind. The cookies were incredible. Even to this day I still can’t find words to describe them. Which is funny because it’s just regular cookies.
It’s so good, but I feel miserable inside.
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I went inside and locked the door behind me. I wasn’t that thirsty so I just put the drinks in the fridge and went upstairs to my room. My bed looked really inviting at this very moment, before I knew it, my body went under the covers.
I still didn’t feel that good. Maybe I’m tired? My mind drifted back to that girl. She was pretty. Maybe more than pretty? I shouldn’t be thinking like this to someone I just met, but I can’t help it. The thought of her was comforting enough. She gives me a warm feeling, a feeling I only felt with my older sister.