Shanty

Chorus

They did text each other. Alpha got a text as soon as he got into a cab. It was a short and sweet message wishing him the best with getting home and apologizing again. Besides his mother, he could never remember getting messages like that from anyone.... Alpha texted back with the same.

He was thankful to get an explanation as to why Charlie had to leave in such a rush. Family issues. How relatable. He didn't even bat an eye when Charlie tried to apologize yet again, there was no need.

He soon got home to his temporary dorm and collapsed on his bed. There were still enough hours in the day to work on that essay.  But at the same time, he was exhausted, and he kept thinking about the conversations he shared with Charlie.

Alpha knew he could do better as a conversationalist! How embarrassing! He never acted that way around girls, they were the ones who acted out embarrassingly around him. Thank goodness he would see Charlie again to prove he was a master in conversation and not a wimp.

Maybe he should give him flowers in apology. Alpha shook his head at that funny thought. Charlie wasn't a girl; it wasn't like he was trying to court him or something. Ridiculous. They were both men.

Alpha decided instead of working he should try to sleep to refresh. Clear his mind of these sentimental thoughts.

He stripped his clothes, showered, brushed his teeth, and put on his pajamas in a hurry. The routine helped distract him temporarily, but as soon as he laid down, he was left alone in the dark. The thoughts circled through him.

He just had to tell himself that this was a good thing. He made a friend; that is all it was.
——-
Alpha's eyes burned as he stared at his computer screen. He was able to type out a couple of pages with the tour and dinner he went on. But he yet again had writer's block.

He needed a break, and soon enough his prayers were answered by seeing a text notification.

"im sorry that our conversations keep getting cut short...I keep thinking about how rude it was to leave so early.."

"You say sorry a lot."

"I'm sorry lol"

"But is everything ok? What were those family issues?"

"uh can I call you"

Alpha's mouth felt dry. He wanted to call him?

"Yes," he texted. The ringing came immediately.

"Hey sorry, if it's a bad time but texting on this phone is a hassle."

"It isn't a bad time, I'm just in my room."

"Ok good. So, I had to leave because I had to watch my nephew."

"Oh?"

"It happens often."

"How old is he?"

"Two. Ugh, my sister-in-law works a lot, and my brother cannot be trusted," Charlie huffed. "But someone has to do it."

"Is this the brother who took out your eye?"

"Yeah."

"He has a kid?!"

"Yes."

"Horrible. Why do you bother helping him? He sounds like a monster."

"It isn't my nephew's fault. He is just a baby. And I... I still should be a good brother to him by helping him with this," Charlie's voice was starting to crack. "Goodness, m-maybe it wasn't a good idea to call."

"Charlie, are you crying...?" Alpha was taken aback. What was wrong? Nothing here was worth crying about.

"I'm s-sorry. I cry easily. Sometimes for no reason! Ha!"