Golden Melody (Editing)

Chapter 74

Chapter 74: Time Is a Scam, but I'm in Love

Zatariel's Point of View

I set my alarm for 5:00 a.m.

The alarm rang like a funeral bell for my dreams.

Still, I slapped the snooze button with the determination of a man auditioning for sainthood. Very carefully—I sat up so I wouldn't disturb my cat, Ethy, currently recovering and living her best CWD life (Cat With Disability).

I staggered to the bathroom like a noble scholar who had recently been turned into a rock star.

Splashed water on my face, brushed my teeth, and-naturally-burst into song:

🎶 "Can't calculate the slope of your love, baby, but I'll graph it anyway..." 🎶

Math is love. Love is math.

And today?

I'm teaching both.

Down in the kitchen, I decided to go full "Working Class" mode and brew myself coffee. Bitter, no creamer. Because that's what people with jobs do, right?  I heard the darker it is, the more motivated you become.

One sip.

Immediate regret.

What is this betrayal?

Burnt sorrow and bean water?

Absolutely not.

I poured the cup into the sink like I was banishing an evil spirit.

Then I made hot cocoa instead—rich, warm, comforting.

Sweet. Just like me.

I blew a chef's kiss at the mug. That cup had earned it.

Back upstairs, cocoa in hand, I crouched beside the little bed where Ethy slept. I checked her breathing like a paranoid parent.

Still steady. Still purring softly.

Good.

"Don't leave me," I whispered dramatically. "You're the only sane one in this house."

She purred louder.

See?

Mutual understanding.

I sat down at my desk and reviewed the lesson plan I had prepared for Miexha.

Title: Functions and Relations: The Forbidden Love Story.

I had even highlighted one section in pink.

How to Graph Like a Queen.

I glanced at the clock.

5:50 a.m.

Excuse me?

I frowned. Surely it had to be at least seven by now.

Still 5:50.

The clock stared back at me with malicious confidence.

I checked my phone.

5:51.

Tablet?

5:51.

PC?

5:51.

Time is a scam!

"What if I'm still dreaming?" I muttered.

"What if it's actually ten already and I missed the appointment and she thinks I forgot and—"