I scoff as much as I can down before hurrying off to the sanctum, the room never changes; the beige walls freshly painted in the windowless room, in the centre the mahogany desk scattered with papers and pens. The apparatus is cornered behind a small wooden plush chair, as I approach closer to the machine I realise there's already a piece of paper lying on top; I considering reading the note before hesitantly pulling the paper out and folding it open. The black writing is already showing through the thin paper, I re-consider throwing it away or putting it back; but of course I can't just do that, not without reading it at least.
I peel back the last fold as the black words shine into my eyes:
You must pass,
It is inevitable.
"Layna!"
"Okay" I hastily put the note back whilst grab my schedule and rushing down the stairs to greet my Dad; you must pass? What is that supposed to mean? My exams? Because that would be a miracle. "Come on Layna", I hurriedly jump down the last step and run to the front door while grabbing my bag where my Dad is jingling his keys like a playful kitten, "Come on Dad" I say mimicking his voice.
"Ha-ha." I roll my eyes and walk outside to the car; the sun has just started to rise over the horizon shadowing the neighbouring houses; Click Click I open the door swinging my bag around onto my lap and reaching across to put my seatbelt on. Dad quietly jumps in the car and drives off; "So, how's school?" my Dad asks breaking the silence,
"Do you really care?"
"Yes, Layna, I really do care"
"It's okay. Mrs Hargrove is making us write an essay on 'The importance of passing tests'" I sigh.
"Well, it is quite important"
"Really?" I mutter sarcastically.
"Yes 'really' " The rest of the drive is silent, both our breaths in a quiet rhythm, echoing against the mist filled windows.
