When I awake, I have a few missed texts from Liz.
Liz
Are you feeling any better, Min?
Liz
Are you alive? You haven’t answered me in like three hours. That isn’t normal for you.
Liz
I’m coming over when I get off work. I hope you’re at least dressed.
I snigger at this. I’m always dressed in at least pajamas.
Liz
Stopped by, but you were passed out of it. I stopped by Sainsbury and did the shopping that was on your list. You can thank me later. Text me when you wake.
Min
Sorry I missed you.
Liz
She’s alive! Feeling better?
Min
Much. I guess my body really needed sleep.
Liz
Dur.
Min
I know.
Liz
If you’re feeling up for it, I’ll swing by with some hot soup and grilled cheese when I get off. We can have a girls’ night in and watch a film or Project Catwalk until you fall asleep. I’ll evenlet you pick.
Min
Gee, thanks. Even though it is my turn.
We decide on six. Stretching, I climb out of my bed and hop into the shower. Once I’m feeling clean and more myself again, I rummage through the fridge and heat up a plain bagel to go with a cup of Earl Grey.
As I eat, it takes me just under an hour to clear out my email inbox and call my parents. I missed our normal call window on Sunday. What surprises me, however, is that I have no texts, voicemails, or missed video chat alerts from Sam.
“We were supposed to talk Monday,” I say aloud, checking my calendar to confirm I had the date right. My head is still a little fuzzy. TodayisTuesday.
I frown. It’s not like him to forget, but I’m beginning to grow weary of always being the one to initiate the conversations.
On a whim, I tap his name and video call him. It’s around ten thirty. When it keeps ringing, I’ll decide I’ll leave him a voicemail. But that plan never comes to fruition because he finally picks up.
“Hi, Min, good timing. I’m just running over to the food hall for lunch,” he says, holding the phone in front of him. I see a few horses in the back as he leaves the stables.