Lost

2

Another day has passed, and Tyler had been kind enough to say hello today, leaving me feeling like goo for the rest of the evening.

Entering the silent house, I slip off my converse. They've always been special to me since I received a pair from Mom when I was only ten. I literally wore them everywhere I could, which was a terrible idea. They turned grey in only weeks, but I still loved them like there was no tomorrow. I was completely devastated when I outgrew them. Mom was no longer around anymore because of the 'fresh new meat' she got her hands on. Dad, when he was still Dad, bought me a bigger pair that I had on now. These shoes are the only good thing that I have about my Mother. I wore them everywhere.

I head up the stairs to my room to check upon Sugar like I always do coming home from school.

Peeking in through the slit between the door and the frame, I see my precious cat in her bed, well fed and peacefully asleep. She's very lucky to be able to sleep like that. It's amazing that she could even get any shut eye when Father lives here. To sleep in silence and to never be disturbed by ferocious nightmares is luck too.

I sigh, and walk away from the door leaving it slightly ajar. I head back downstairs, grab a pen from the jar on the counter and search through my backpack for my homework. I pull out my Math and Science textbooks, and lay them down on the fluffy carpet in the living room.

With my pen in hand, I open the Science textbook. I'm ready for some annoying questions about cells and whatnot. But instead of seeing a numbered section, I find a sticky-note which has been stuck right on top of our class's assigned questions. Peeling the note off slowly, I bring it closer to me so I can read the messy writing.

Stupid science—always pulling us away from the things that matter the most. Sorry to interrupt your 'educational experience'. (oh, how I love Ms. Petertonn's references) I wish Science didn't exist so I could've gotten to know more than your name. Don't worry though, I'll see you again. I promise.

Until then,
Z

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding, and continued to stare at the note that caused butterflies in my stomach. Who was this guy?

No way was I capable of answering Science questions now. After realizing that even Math would be hard, I took a look at the clock and decided I might as well head off to work early. There's no way I can do anything related to school right now. I shoved the note into the back pocket of my jeans and stood up. I don't remember anyone with the name of 'Z', or anyone's name starting with that letter either. Odd.

Bending down, I collected all of my work, walked up the stairs and gently tossed my school bag onto my bed. Kissing the top of Sugar's head, I whispered to her. "I'll be back soon, sweetie. I've gotta go to work now, I'm sorry I can't stay with you. Be safe."

Down the stairs I went, and walked out the front door, locking it behind me. It's not until I reach the end of the pathway that I notice I have no ride. "Shoot." I mumble in frustration.

Usually, one of my co-workers, Michelle, carpools with me and we both are always on time. But because of this note this 'Z' has left me, I am an hour and a half early which means I won't see Michelle's car for quite sometime.

Glancing up and down the deserted highway, I spot no sign of life. I can't call the café, because that would just be down right embarrassing. 'Oh look, the only person who works in this café who is without a car!' Yeah, no. I decide to call Michelle—even though I barely know her, besides her being my driver.