Unravel // Van McCann

12. Sightings

I couldn't sleep last night. I was too tall for the couch so my legs hung off the edge. It didn't matter how often I adjusted my sleeping position—I couldn't get comfortable and kept waking up throughout the night. I couldn't sleep even if I tried. Not on this bloody thing. My alarm went off and I quickly shut it off.

I sighed, swung my legs over the edge of the couch, and sat up. I waited for the head rush to subside before standing up and that was when I felt it. A dull ache in my lower back. My hand instantly went to my back and I scowled, thinking about how I was going to have to deal with this today on top of the lack of sleep. Perhaps sleeping on the floor is a better option.

I grabbed my cigarettes and lighter and stepped out to light one. I could go to work today but I didn't want to. My day would consist of putting my findings together in a report and following Mr. Melbourne once again after work. Is it just her or does he have more than one lover? This man was getting more action than I was, lucky bastard. Meanwhile, I was being fucked by life.

My mind wandered over to Theo and how I could ask how his case is going. Was he getting any closer to finding out that the woman he was looking for was in my flat? I glanced over my shoulder to see if she woke up but my door was still closed. As much as I'd like to sort things out today, I couldn't bear spending an entire day with Megan. What were we even going to talk about?

I stubbed my ciggy in the ashtray and went to the bathroom to get ready for work. Once done, I realized I had to go in my room to grab a change of clothes. I felt terrible for disturbing her but I knocked on the door anyway.

"Sorry to bother you but can I get my clothes?" I asked through the door.

"Yeah," she replied.

I opened the door to my room and was surprised to see the light on despite the curtains being closed. She was sitting up in bed writing in her journal.

"You're up early," I observed. "Did you not sleep?"

"I slept. It's normal for me to get up early."

At first I didn't think much of her response, but the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. If she stayed at the shelter or at anyone's house for that matter, she had to be alert and constantly on the move. She didn't have time to linger.

"I have to work and it will unfortunately be a late day depending on how things go. Will you be alright on your own? I've got food in the fridge and snacks. I'm not much of a cook..." I said, embarrassed. I briefly walked away to grab my wallet and came back, handing her $40 to hold her off until I got back. She eyed the money, reluctant to take it. "Please take it. I don't want you to starve. I'll be back by 7 PM or summat. If you're hungry, there are some restaurants down the street. Don't wait for me."

I held my hand out and she finally took the money. She unfolded the bills and seemed surprised at the amount. To be honest, that was more than enough but I hope she knew she could keep the rest and buy whatever she needed. While she was occupied with that, I took the opportunity to go through my closet and find an outfit to wear for today. Once I found something, I went to the bathroom to change. She was in the kitchen when I came out so I asked if she wanted breakfast.

"D'ya want breakfast? I'll get the kettle going," I said, walking over to fill the kettle. "I can make toast and eggs—or if you want cereal—I've got Weetabix and Special K. I've also got yogurt and bananas too."

"Weetabix?" she questioned.

"Oh yeah!" I pulled the box out and shook it. "They come in rectangular-shaped biscuits 'n you poor milk over 'em and add a bit of sugar. You can try 'em if you want...I know they're not for everyone." Megan grabbed the box from me.