The Space in Between

Chapter 7

"Did you have a great time?" Dre asked as he walked up to me.

"Yeah. These kids have so much energy as if they're not sick at all. I wish I could have the same energy." I replied with a helpless tone.

He looked at me, smiling emphatically, and said, "Then we should come here often."

"But..." I wasn't able to say what I wanted to say.

He took me by the hand and said with excitement, "I want to show you something."

I hesitated but we're already walking towards the stairs. "Woah, wait up! Your doctor advised that you should walk around but not like this. For sure it can wait." I told him with a serious face so he would feel that I'm not into his plan.

"This is the last activity for the day. Trust me!" He smiled sweetly like the smile I saw on Raffy's face earlier.

I sighed. "Okay but after this, we have to go back to your room. You need to rest." I sounded like he's my responsibility but honestly, I just wanted to stay in his room.

He looked at me, stood straight and almost at the same time, gave a salute while saying, "Aye Aye, Captain!" He tried not to laugh.

I smirked but followed him climbing the stairs. How can this guy be so playful? Good thing, I'm not his mother or sister or girlfriend. I stopped right there. I won't even go there.

He stopped by the door after we climbed four levels. We could have used the lift and I can see that he got tired. He saw me looking at him as I reached the last step while catching my breath. He straightened up and pretended his breathing was normal.

"What time is it?" He asked.

I looked at my watch and said, "Quarter past five."

"Ah, just right in time." He was giddy. He opened the door and looked at me. His face beamed as the ray of sun from the opening touched his face.

He took my hand and said, "Let's go!"

For some reason, his energy was contagious and I felt excited too. "You better be sure I will love it. If not, I'll break your bones using my bare hands this time!" I was not sure if I said something offensive but the shock on his face was obvious.

"Did you just make a joke? That was a first!" He started laughing as we walked out the door.

I tried not to laugh. I couldn't help but smile when I lifted my head.