the Distance <Remake>

chapter 9: MEPS

The next morning I heard the alarm go off, strong arms wrapped around me, I felt content but infuriated at the same time. I was utterly annoyed, and felt the need to be arrogant, but I can understand why Greg set an alarm that early. MEPS is no joke and the bus leaves exactly at 4:30 in the morning. So I took this time to prepare myself. Carefully sliding out of Greg's gentle wrap, I sped walked over to the closet and grabbed a tshirt and some joggers. Carefully closing the closet door in the most delicate manner so I dont wake him; I made my way to the bathroom, turning on the shower, as I waited for the steam to appear, sliding out of my shirt and pants, tossing all my clothing in the corner. The steam began rising and increasing in length, quickly removing my panties I hopped in the tub and began scrubbing myself

The warmth helped some of my sore areas find peace. It was better to find a shed of relief than none at all, since processing takes the longest to get through. I heard it's one of the worst experiences you'll ever encounter. Suddenly I heard a slight knock on the door and a familiar voice.

"Ruby, be ready in 30 minutes so you can come down for some breakfast"

Of course captain obvious speaks, does he have to tell me this when I have a whole routine set up? I mean really, I'm not clueless like 90% of the people in this building who dont know what they're supposed to be doing. I ranted on and on under my breath, and just answered back in a polite sarcastic manner.

"I'll be right down"

Frustration surpassing my sympathy, and compassion immediately deteriorating. I was not pleased at all. But he means well and I have to make myself remember that. I get dressed sliding on all my clothes. Some joggers, a T-shirt and some sneakers, comfortable enough for MEPS. All I know is it's going to be a long day over there. I ran downstairs got some water and an apple to keep my heart rate normal. I went to sit down for the 30 minutes I had left to consume this precious gift before I enter hell. A couple of girls spotted me and walked over towards my table.

Oh lovely, another group of people probably wanting to associate themselves in my existence. So much for a peaceful breakfast..

"Hi there" 

A girl, possibly in her 20's with natural black curly hair greeted me. I honestly felt that urge not to answer and tell her to buzz off, but for some reason my body refused to cooperate with me in that aspect and instead..reacted out in defense to make acquaintances while I'm here. It's almost as if my body convinced me to attempt a different approach.

" May I.. help you..?"

I responded back questioningly, wondering if I came off bothered enough for her to see herself out.

"We couldnt help but notice you were sitting here and wanted to join ya"

Another girl answered: she was possibly just a fresh graduate out of high school, she did come off like that anyways. Though the frustration on my face was rather evident, and I just wanted this unfortunate encounter to end so I can manage to sit back in peace. But unfortunately they both sat at my table , as I tried everything possible to get them creeped out enough that they'd want to dissapear from my presence.

I took a big chomp out of my apple, praying it would spook them just enough to trigger them , hoping it makes them jittery enough to waltz away. Unfortunately that didnt work on them considering they ate in a peculiar way like me. Just what I needed.. mini mes'. Of course this complicated things because forming friendships isnt on my agenda in this trip I signed myself into. The girl with the black curly hair introduced herself as Liz, while the other girl with the brown eyes and puffy hair introduced herself as Lexis.