30 Days Too Late

Dear: 11/27/23

Rudy

"Rue," I'm shaken awake. "You're going to be late," Dexter whispers.

"Shit," I rub my eyes, glancing at the clock. Dexter goes limp, and his head rests on my shoulder.

"Dex?" I say, putting my hand against his forehead. He blinks at me sleepily; he's tired all the time now.

"I think the cold is at its peak, Dex," I acknowledge. He nods weakly. I readjust his head so it's resting on his pillow and slide on his glasses.

"Open your eyes," I request. They peek open at me, glossy. His eye bags are prominent and red.

"Happy Birthday," I whisper.

"Birthday..." he breathes out.

"You're officially 22," I smile.

"Mm," his eyes close.

"Julio and Jeff got you gifts too," I say.

"I love gifts," he mumbles.

"I'll see you later?" I ask, rubbing his cheek soothingly. I peck the side of his mouth a couple of times, saying goodbye.

"Rudy, take me with you," he says, sitting up.

"How am I supposed to sneak you out? You're not small anymore," I chuckle.

"I'm still small. I can fit in your backpack," he replies, resting his head on my collarbone.

"You're cute," I say, rubbing his back. "Can you walk?"

"Mm," he shakes his head. "My body aches, and I'm really tired. It's hard to keep my eyes open," he says quietly.

"I'll stay with you and miss the game," I decide.

"No, because then I won't be able to watch you play. Remember my birthday wish," he tries to smile.

"Are you sure?" I ask.

"Mhm," he nods. "Wait, I don't want to get you sick—"

I shut him up with a quick kiss.

"I love you," I whisper, nuzzling noses with him.

He pecks my lips back twice in return. "What about the after-party?" he asks.

The fact that he knows we're going to win makes me giggle. "No, your birthday, remember? I'll be here with you," I inform him.

"Mmm," his head droops.

Maybe I can cheer him up a little before I leave. "I'm sorry for spitting my gum into your salad when school started," I blurt, recalling our first day of University.

He busts out laughing with a smile.

"I love you," I say, kissing his forehead. I stand and pick up my two bags.

"Rudy," he calls, making me stop.

His legs wobble as he walks toward me. "Hey," I reply, steadying him. He's walking! He uses the bed to stay upright, though his balance is weak.

"What is it?" I ask.

His arms wrap around me for a hug. I hug him back with the same amount of force. "Be safe, Rue," he whispers in my ear.

"I will, I promise," I reply. I open the door and stop in front of the window.

"Close the curtains," I say.

"I want to watch your ass as you walk away," he mouths.

"You're a pervert," I huff and turn.

I call for the elevator, shifting on my feet a little. I feel self-conscious; his stare is serious. I turn and walk quickly back to his door. He opens it, and I pull him down for a kiss. Dexter holds me close as he returns my embrace.