Cycling through a Dream

Prologue

The journey home was always the best part of my day, not because I hate my job, in fact I love it, but cycling has always been my favourite way to get around. I could never do it in North Carolina but even though the roads aren't the safest for cyclists, the 20 minute cycle through Banbury always lifts my spirits after a work day.

You can see my building from a distance. The tall structure from the 60s sticks out like a sore thumb compared to the bungalows or small houses that surround it. As I pull up to the base I start to feel the cold drops of rain on my face. Perfect timing, I think. A thunderstorm was on its way and according to the news, and it was a bad one. I haul my bike up the stairwell and the clang of the pedals hitting the metal bannisters rings out. Shit. I'm sure that pissed off my new neighbours. 3rd floor, down the hall and on the left. I sigh deeply before unlocking and entering my apartment. It was nice. Still basic after the recent move but it had electricity and running water so it can't complain. Oh and unlike my apartment in Charlotte, it's an appropriate size, built for 1 person. It's nice to not suffocate in the empty space of 4 unused rooms. I chuck my cycling gear onto the sofa and immediately go to the kitchen for a glass of water.

A month ago all seemed fine. I was looking forward to living close to family again. A nice 2 hour drive instead of an 8 hour flight. I loved the environment at the main factory but it was never home. People like to claim America isn't too different but they are wrong. Really wrong. When the opportunity arose for me to transfer my job back to the UK I jumped at the chance without second thought. I stupidly questioned how different it could be.

After 2 weeks I already wanted to quit. They weren't bad people and I am definitely not bad at my job but I felt lonely and just didn't fit in here. But everytime I think of quitting I can hear my mother saying "Suck it up and deal with it". A part of me knows I belong here so I just have to wait for the rest of me to catch up.

Having already eaten dinner I realise there is no reason for me to stay up and so I start getting ready for bed. I stumble into the bathroom already half asleep and carry out my evening routine. Cleanse my face, moisturise, brush my teeth and check my reflection isn't too solemn. I check the time on my watch. 21:47. I guess going to bed this early is the new normal for me now even on a friday. I take off the rest of my clothing collapsing onto the bed in only my underwear. My last thoughts before I nod off are, I wonder if I will cycle in my dream tonight.

A/N: Prologue done. Can't believe It. Chapter 1 is only about a third completed if i want to include everything but I am really happy so far. I would expect it early next week. Have a good one!