Playing With Fire

Fifteen: Tears At The Redlight

Kookie's POV…

As the morning sun gently filtered through the curtains, I stirred from my slumber at the sound of Jade's thunderous snores. We were both sprawled out on my sofa, covered by a deep crimson blanket that usually adorned the burgundy chaise in my bedroom. The television hummed in the background, casting a glow on a program I wouldn’t watch—even if Jade begged me to.

Carefully lifting her arm from my chest, I slipped away from the sofa and tiptoed toward my bedroom to freshen up. After brushing my teeth, shaving, and indulging in a soothing warm shower, I slipped into a comfortable ensemble—gray joggers, a black t-shirt, and crisp white socks. Feeling refreshed, I made my way to the kitchen, ready to prepare breakfast.

With a quick tap on my phone screen, I opened Spotify and scrolled through my favorite playlist in search of a specific song: Losing You by Wonho. That song held a special place in Jade’s heart. No matter how exhausted or inebriated she was, the first few notes would always wake her up, prompting her to belt out the lyrics off-key with unbridled enthusiasm.

As the song’s melody filled the room, I turned my attention to the refrigerator. Retrieving four eggs, two fresh stalks of green onions, and six slices of bacon, I set out on my culinary task. After carefully washing the vibrant green onions, I chopped them into medium-sized pieces before mixing them with the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Setting the mixture aside, I focused on turning these simple ingredients into a satisfying morning feast.

"Good morning," Jade greeted, suppressing a yawn as she appeared at the kitchen entrance, her eyes still heavy with sleep.

"Good morning to you too. I apologize if I disturbed your slumber," I said, placing the six slices of bacon into a sizzling frying pan.

"Ah, you knew very well that playing that particular song would wake me up," Jade teased, a mischievous smile curving her lips. "Do you need any help?"

"Nah, I’ve got it covered. Why don’t you freshen up while I finish breakfast?"

"Are you implying that I smell?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Of course not. I just know you always like to look presentable, no matter where you are or who you’re with. It’s one of the many admirable qualities I like about you."

"Good save," she chuckled. "I’m borrowing one of your long sweatshirts!" she called out as she turned and walked away.

"I wouldn’t expect anything less," I replied before she disappeared from sight. Smiling to myself, I returned my focus to the stove.

In another pan, I poured the egg mixture, ensuring it spread evenly across the surface. I set the heat to medium, allowing the omelet to cook to perfection on one side.

Meanwhile, I grabbed two slices of honey wheat lite bread and placed them in the toaster. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the scent of sizzling bacon and eggs.

Glancing at the small pot of boiling water, I added a pat of butter and a pinch of salt, watching as the butter melted into the bubbling liquid. With measured precision, I poured in a cup of grits, watching the grains cascade into the pot. Jade had always loved a good bowl of grits for breakfast.

As the omelet reached the perfect golden hue, I flipped it over, letting the fluffy egg mixture embrace the sautéed green onions, bell peppers, and gooey cheddar cheese inside.

With the toast golden brown and the grits cooked to the perfect consistency, I carefully plated the meal. The omelet sat in the center of each plate, surrounded by toast, crispy bacon, and a steaming bowl of grits.