Down Bad

Weekend Stay

The week starts smoothly for Earth, or at least the first few days do.

But by Friday, everything takes a sudden turn. He’s informed there’s a major project deadline, and it’s mandatory to work through the weekend.

The news immediately fills him with dread as his thoughts shift to Edin.

The idea of his son spending the weekend alone, or with a sitter, pulls at his heart. He knows he can’t leave Edin on his own, but his options are limited.

It’s Friday morning, and Earth and Edin are in the car, getting ready to head to preschool. Edin is settled in the back seat, playing with his toy cars, oblivious to the storm brewing in his dad's mind.

Earth, trying to find a solution, picks up his phone and dials a familiar number.

The call rings a few times before Khaotung answers on the third ring.

“Hello?” Khaotung’s voice is light, but there’s a hint of knowing concern.

“Hey,” Earth replies, though his voice sounds hesitant, weighed down by the guilt of what he’s about to ask. He doesn’t want to burden his friends, especially not after how much they’ve helped him already.

But there aren’t many choices left.

Khaotung, sensing Earth’s dilemma immediately, sighs playfully. “What is it this time, hmm?”

Earth chuckles despite his stress, amused at how well Khaotung knows him. “Can you watch Edin this weekend? I’ve got a big project due at work.”

From beside Earth, Edin’s ears perk up at the mention of his name, his attention now fully on the conversation.

“Saturday and Sunday?” Khaotung asks.

“Yeah, I’d pick him up Sunday night after work wraps up.” Earth shifts in his seat, hoping for a yes, but prepared for the worst.

On the other end, Earth hears the faint sound of voices and movement, and then Khaotung’s voice comes back on the line. “Oh, bummer. We actually have plans to go out this weekend. I’m so sorry, Earth.”

Earth’s heart sinks a little. He forces a smile, though no one can see it. “That’s totally fine, Tung.”

“But,” Khaotung quickly adds, “we could bring Edin along if you’re okay with that.”

Earth shakes his head instinctively, rejecting the offer.

He doesn’t want to ruin their weekend, especially since they had already helped so much with Edin last week. “No, no. It’s fine. You two enjoy your weekend. You’ve done more than enough.”

“Are you sure?” Khaotung’s voice is laced with concern.

“Yeah, I’m sure. Thanks, Tung. I’ll figure it out,” Earth reassures him, doing his best to sound upbeat. After a quick goodbye, Earth hangs up and lets out a long breath. His mind races to come up with another plan.

Earth catches Edin watching him, the kid sitting quietly beside him. Earth forces a big grin, not wanting his son to sense his worry. “Alright, let’s get you to school, champ!”

Edin’s face lights up instantly, his worries melting away.

As Earth parks the car in front of the preschool, Edin excitedly picks up an extra bag they brought with them and quickly hands it to his dad, a deliberate move that makes Earth chuckle softly.

They had prepared a bento that morning—well, Earth did most of the work, but Edin had insisted on helping.

The bento wasn’t for Edin, though; it's for someone else.