If I Have To

The Life of A Langston

New York, New York
February 23rd

Kasey L.

Waking up this morning was weird. It was the thought of knowing there was another individual living here with me made it feel that way. At any second during my morning routine, Xena could wake up and walk around the house like it was her own. Well, technically, it was hers now. But none of that happened. Everything else was the same. I assisted Miranda in getting the dogs ready then made myself breakfast like how I always did.

I was going to head out for work soon and haven't seen Xena yet. I thought about going to wake her but Davon informed me that interrupting a woman's sleep was like actively worshipping the devil. It was hell. So, I sat at the counter with my newspaper in my hand and coffee at my side, waiting. I hope I get to see her before I have to leave. Hopefully.

"Mr. Langston!" I was called. I glanced back to see Davon entering the kitchen.

"Davon," I responded, going back to my paper. "What can I assist you with?"

"Your car is out front and Sara is here," he informed me. I shut my paper then looked at my watch for the time.

"She's early," I said. It was now going on seven-thirty. I was usually out the door around this time but was adamant on seeing Xena beforehand.

I don't know why either. I felt like it was the right thing to do as a husband. My mother did it when I was younger. She was up early, making breakfast, and tending to my brothers and I. Then when my father came down, they would share a kiss and we all would stand by the door to watch my father head to his car. The imagery was similar to those 1970s television shows. At least close to it. Regardless, I thought it was the appropriate thing to do.

So, I continued to wait.

"She is. You know you're late, right?" Davon asked. I place my attention on him, his eyebrow was raised and I knew he was reading me.

I sigh, refolding my newspaper back to how it came. "I'm aware."

"Waiting for someone?" He smirked and I rolled my eyes. He started laughing, making me turn away from him. I look back at my watch for the time again. I had to get going like now. Next time, I'll see her but today wasn't the day.

"While we're speaking on her, what exactly are her hobbies?" Davon asked.

I shrugged, sliding off the stool. "I know she likes to be outside. I'm not too sure on other things. Wherever she wants to go, be sure you and Cody are with her at all times," I gave him orders, going to the sink and pouring my coffee out.

"Good morning Mrs. Langston," Davon ignored what I said. He made me look up quickly and that's when I saw her.

Xena gave Davon a small wave, standing awkwardly in the entryway of the kitchen. I stared at her while my cup overflowed, water going all over my hand. It didn't seem to bother me as much since I didn't stop it. I kept my attention on Xena, attempting to look her over without it being weird. You know that weird feeling I was having earlier knowing another person was living in my home?

Yeah, that feeling faded seeing the individual now. She was dressed up nicely too which is why I was still looking. I didn't have much of a style. If I wasn't wearing my scrubs then I was in a random band tee shirt and sweatpants. A suit every now and then, and jeans. But her style...it was different. It said a lot without saying a lot. Simple and casual but still stylish and classy.