Trapped

5

f i v e

It wasn't until he waved his hand in front of my face that I realized I was gazing at him in a particular way.

"Na'lini? Do I seem to be uncared for? "When he inquired, I scrunched up my brows and gave him a sidelong glance.

His skin was perfect, he had no under-eye bags, he appeared to have had a recent haircut, and despite having a slender figure, he was well-muscled. He was handsome. I can't believe I never recognized him as much as I do now.

"No... you seem... you're." I murmured, fumbling over my words.

"Let's continue, and don't you dare touch that fire alarm," he said in response.

"Well, can we at least try increasing the heat? I don't appreciate being this cold "I spoke, and he nodded.

After approaching the thermostat, we toyed around with it for a time. No success.

He added, "If you get any colder, you can wear this sweatshirt too." I grinned.

"Maybe later"

"May I borrow your socks for the moment?" When I asked, he gave me a startled expression.

He turned to face me while also gazing at my feet. I was only donning a set of black no-shows.

He answered, "Yes," and when I didn't expect it, he reached around me, pulled the hood over my head, and tugged on the drawstrings. Even though I could only see through a small gap, I swear I heard him laugh.

"This should help as well." he said, and I nudged him as I uncovered myself. Just a few more days and this would be over.

I saw that nightfall had already come when I peered out the window. Now that the lamps were on, the city was serene. It was growing progressively colder inside as the days went by, and I knew it would soon be time to turn in for the night.

I crossed my legs on the floor and pulled the socks Chris had lent me up higher.

"Where is the toothpaste?" I glanced up at Chris when he asked.

I replied "bathroom," and he nodded in agreement. "I can go grab it for you,"

He said, "It's all good," and I agreed with him by nodding.

I waited for him to turn around as I watched as he left.

I stood up, took a few steps, and eventually left the spot. I felt chills as I proceeded down the hallway.

"Little bird/ You'll never fly again/ If you try/ Just don't be afraid/ Of what the world/ Has done to you/ Just know your strong/ Enough to make it through" I softly sang as I made my way back into the room.

"Your singing voice is lovely." As Chris mentioned, I simply shrugged.

I said, "Thanks," and he smiled briefly.

I suppose he is coming to like me.

I laid down on the ground and draped the sleeping bag over my body. Sleeping in these chairs is extremely difficult. Chris, on the other hand, didn't appear to agree. He sat down on the couch and made himself as comfortable as he could.

He said, "Night," and I retorted in kind.

I tried to sleep by closing my eyes, but I had trouble. I suppose I'm still concerned about my friends. But are they truly genuine friends? Who the fuck do they think they are leaving me here?

I needed a distraction right now. I turned to face Chris and peered across at him.

"Chris, what kind of things do you like to do?" He sighed as I questioned him.