The Space in Between

Chapter 11

The day is just about to start. Not that I'm not a morning person, but I haven't gone out this early for a long time. I can barely see people around and it feels good walking on an almost deserted street.

I entered the doughnut shop, a couple of blocks away from the hospital and ordered an éclair and Americano with double shots. I know I shouldn't be drinking coffee but I'd rather have this than not having a drink at all.

People are coming out of the subway station just outside the shop. I was watching as they went on their way, patrons entering the doughnut shop to grab something to eat and leave right away. Kids in school uniform, playfully walking and talking with their friends. In an ideal world, what I'm looking at right now is a motion picture, full of color. In my world, it's simply black and white.

After having my breakfast, I found myself sitting inside the subway. I'm getting off at Delaney Station and walking a few meters to reach home.

I'm not really a small talk kind of person so I plugged my earphones in but didn't turn on the music, I opened my eBook app and started reading.

Few minutes later, I think I heard someone calling my name. Who'd call me at this time and this place? I didn't pay attention nor look up.

People started to move in and out when the subway stopped in Oxford station. A lady stood in front of me. She's wearing red, suede ankle boots, white satin top tucked in black skirt and a long jacket. If we're not on public transport, I'd think she's Shania. I know her too well including the way she dresses.

"Are you seriously going to ignore me?" I heard the lady say.

I wasn't sure who she was talking to so I didn't look up. I felt a tap on my head and was surprised to see Shania standing in front of me with her right brow arched so high.

"I didn't realize it's you." I couldn't think of anything to say. "Where are you heading?" I asked.

She looks confused. "Work." was her short response. Her facial expression started to soften, this time, she looked concerned.

I simply smiled.

"Where have you been this early?" She asked.

She's a great friend but I wasn't into engaging in a conversation right now. She felt it.

I felt bad about it too. How I wish I could be more engaging? But there's nothing I can do. I looked at her and gave a forced smile. She nodded.