Rebound's Rebound

In Your Absence

Kign's POV:

The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow in my room. I woke up feeling groggy but with a hopeful anticipation that was quickly dashed when I checked my computer for any updates. Amelia still hadn't accepted my friend request.

Kign: (sighing) "Still nothing..."

I stared at the screen, the disappointment weighing on me. With a resigned sigh, I shut down the browser and pushed myself out of bed. I needed to get ready for the day, but Amelia's absence from my notifications was a constant nagging thought.

Downstairs, the aroma of breakfast greeted me as I entered the kitchen. My mom, Marie, was busy preparing a hearty meal, and Gem, my younger sister, was already at the table, enjoying her breakfast.

Marie: (noticing me) "Good morning, Kign! Come and have some breakfast."

Kign: (forcing a smile) "Morning, Mom."

I took my place at the table, trying to focus on the meal, but my mind kept drifting back to Amelia. Marie noticed my distracted demeanor and looked at me with concern.

Marie: (gently) "You seem a little out of it today, Kign. Is everything alright?"

Kign: (trying to sound casual) "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... thinking about school stuff."

Marie's gaze was soft but perceptive. She hesitated before speaking again, clearly weighing her words.

Marie: "Actually, Kign, I was hoping you could help me out today. I have some merchandise that needs to be delivered to a few customers, and it's a bit much for me to handle on my own. Do you think you could skip class today and give me a hand?"

The request took me by surprise. I was torn between the desire to stay in class and the responsibility of helping my mother. I knew she wouldn't ask if it wasn't important.

Kign: (hesitating) "Skip class? I don't know, Mom... I've got some important stuff today. But if you really need me, I guess I could help."

Marie's face brightened with relief and gratitude.

Marie: (smiling) "I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important, sweetheart. But if you need to be in class, I understand."

I weighed my options. I didn't want to let my mother down, and I knew I could catch up on whatever I missed later.

Kign: (nodding) "Alright, I'll help you out today. I'll catch up on whatever I miss later."

Marie: (pleased) "Thank you, Kign. I really appreciate it. We'll head out after breakfast."

Gem, who had been quietly observing, decided to tease me.

Gem: (playfully) "Looks like I'm the only one going to school today. Don't have too much fun without me!"

Kign: (chuckling) "Don't worry, Gem. I'll make sure to save all the boring stuff for you."

We shared a light laugh, and I finished my breakfast with a mix of resignation and resolve. My priority for the day was clear: help my mother and make the best of the situation. I'd have to wait a little longer to see if Amelia accepted my request and hope for a chance to connect with her soon.

Amelia's POV:

The next morning, I scrambled to get ready for school. The late-night farewell party for Kitty had left me exhausted, and I barely managed to drag myself out of bed. My alarm had failed to wake me up on time, and now I was running behind schedule.