A Rift Between Us

Chapter 37 - A Morning In Bed

A sharp pop echoed through Alfie's room as he forcefully tore open the takeout lid. It landed with a soft clatter on his carpet. With a determined thrust, he plunged the fork into the succulent chicken, tearing off a generous piece with a satisfying rip.

"She's being ridiculous...it's just a cough and a minor headache. I'm going to school no matter what," he muttered under his breath, his mouth watering as he organised his thoughts. "It's up to me to decide."

He crammed the torn pieces of chicken into his mouth, the juicy meat bursting with flavour, outshining the steaming tea he raised to his lips immediately after. The disparate flavours made the tea more palatable, though not by much. His lips puckered as he scooped up a mound of rice, which dissolved on his tongue, releasing a burst of sweet and sour tang.

Well, at least the food tastes good. That's one thing I'm happy about. Hmm...I wonder what Alara is having for dinner?

A raucous chorus of crows filled Alfie's room, their harsh caws piercing through the morning air. A squadron of them soared outside, performing intricate aerial manoeuvres. Sunlight streamed through his window, illuminating the empty tray on the floor, littered with food scraps and a toppled mug. A low growl rumbled in his throat as he squinted, turning towards the bedroom door. A heavy, stale odour hung in the air, forcing him to breathe through his mouth. He smacked his lips together and glanced at his alarm clock: 9:37 AM.

Oh crap, I'm late!

His body felt like a bag of concrete, heavy and unresponsive. A wave of exhaustion crashed over him, pulling him back down onto the bed.

Why do I feel so weak?

A light knock sounded at the door. Alfie turned his head as it creaked open. Aggnus' face peeked in, followed by the rest of her figure.

"Morning little lamb. I've called the school already so you don't have to worry about anything. I checked on you earlier while I was getting ready for work. Your temperature has gone up."

Alfie moved his head away from her and gazed at the empty ceiling.

She's lucky I'm feeling out of it right now...

She approached him before pursing her lips, aiming for his forehead. He tilted away, trying to avoid her kiss.

"I'm not going to work either. I called in to let my manager know I won't be in. I gotta take care of you now don't I?"

Sunlight glinted across Aggnus' eyes, prompting a soft smile. Alfie's head snapped towards her, mouth open as if ready to speak, but words failed him. She knelt beside him, gathering the tray and cutlery as the takeout container slid across its surface. She quickly disappeared into the kitchen, leaving his bedroom door open. Alfie reached for his bedside table, slapping his hand onto his phone screen. He watched as it slipped and cascaded to the floor.

Argh for flip sake...

Two new messages were present as soon as he picked it up.

Oh my days...Keiko. She's gonna be mad isn't she?