Kelly's Suprise

I stutter, barely able to form his name: "K-Kend-rick?"

"What the hell? Why now?!" I exclaim, my voice barely above a whisper.

I swiftly exit WhatsApp, power down my phone, and place it next to my pillow.

With a deep sigh, I lay down in bed, attempting to quiet my mind and surrender to slumber.

l've got nothing to do with him anymore; I've moved on, and that's final. Kendrick needs to respect my boundaries and leave me alone.

I squeeze my eyes shut, trying to force myself to sleep, but the message from him lingers in my mind, making it impossible to drift off.

Despite my efforts, sleep eludes me, and I'm left lying awake, my thoughts racing.

But then I recall that I haven't responded to Daniel's message since morning, and I quickly sit up and reach for my phone.

I fold my legs comfortably and power on the device, unlocking it with my fingerprint.

With a few swift taps, I dive into WhatsApp, intentionally skipping over Kendrick's chat and making a beeline for Daniel's conversation, ready to respond and make amends for my delayed reply.

Without further delay, my fingers dance across the screen as I search for the perfect words.

"Hey Daniel, I'm really sorry for not responding earlier, I was extremely busy and I forgot, please forgive me."

I hit send, and the double white checkmarks appear, indicating he's online. He's always online!

Since we started chatting a few months ago, his status has consistently shown those two white ticks, followed by an instant response.

Sometimes, he's offline, but I don't mind - I figure he might be busy with other things, and I totally get it.

But now, the typing indicator appears, and I breathe a sigh of relief, a smile spreading across my face as I await his response.

"No problem, I understand you just got there, university can be a bit tough, so stay focused, it's fine!"

He sends, and I read through the message, my eyes devouring each word, and can't help but smile. A warmth spreads through my heart, and I feel grateful to have someone like Daniel in my life.

But my smile is short-lived, as the next message he sends makes my heart skip a beat.

"Let's speak over the phone."

My eyes linger on the words, and my pulse quickens, leaving me wondering what he wants to discuss that can't be said over text.

Just as my thumb is about to tap the screen, ready to respond, the keypad suddenly transforms into an incoming call.

I'm caught off guard, my eyes widening in shock. "What the hell! He didn't even wait for me to respond!"

I quickly swipe away the call, the ringing still echoing in my ears, and my fingers begin to fly across the keyboard.

"Why are you calling me?!!" I type, my emotions spilling onto the screen in a frantic mix of curiosity and annoyance.

I hit send, still ignoring the ringing that refuses to cease. We've had this conversation before - I've made it clear I prefer texting over calls - but he doesn't always listen.

The ringing finally stops, replaced by a message that makes me frown: "Why are you not picking?"

My teeth grit in frustration as I begin typing angrily. "I told you I don't like calls, we can talk through texting, right?" I send the message, and he instantly reads it, his response forthcoming.

Despite our comfort level after months of chatting, phone calls still make me uneasy, and I prefer the safety of texting.

He responds with a playful "haha, I just missed your voice."

I roll my eyes at the message, and my thumbs move swiftly across the screen as I type out a reply,

"Well, I told you you'd hear my voice some other time, didn't I?"

I send the message, and his response arrives in an instant.

"Well, yeah, you did, but that's what you always say. When's this "some other time"?"

I press my lips together, collecting my thoughts as I ponder the perfect response.

Then, with a newfound clarity, I begin typing. "Soon, but not now," I write, the words flowing effortlessly onto the screen.

As I send the message, my annoyed expression subtly softens, replaced by a gentle smile that spreads across my lips.

He responds with an enthusiastic "Can't wait!" His eagerness is infectious, and I find myself chuckling at his excitement.

I type out a playful reply, then send. "Don't be too happy, goodbye. I want to sleep."

With that, I switch off my data and phone, place it beside my pillow, and settle into bed with a lingering smile on my lips.

I shut my eyes tight, surrendering to the sleep that's been eluding me, with thoughts of Daniel now deeply ingrained in my memory.

His mischievous brown eyes, captivating smile, and calm, friendly demeanor swirl in my thoughts, refusing to let me go.

I take one last deep breath before letting sleep consume me. But I jolt awake, frowning, as I realize the lights are making it difficult to drift off.

With a deep sigh, I swing my legs over the side of the bed and pad softly over to the light switch beside the door.

Reaching it, I flip the switch, and the room is enveloped in darkness.

It's late, I'm certain of it, but the time is irrelevant. The darkness of the room speaks volumes, and I can practically feel the weight of the late hour.

But then, I'm aware of a subtle melody playing in the background, not too loud, but distinct enough to pierce the quiet. It sounds like it's coming from an MP3 player or a phone, the soft notes gently filling the room.

I stretch out my arms, tentatively exploring the dark space around me, before slowly making my way back to bed.

I snuggle under the blanket, wrapping its warmth tightly around me, and settle in with a cozy, contented smile.

But then, my eyes snap open once more, my heart racing slightly.

Kelly still isn't back. I wonder where she could have gone.

A deep breath fills my lungs, but concern for her whereabouts weighs heavily on my heart. When will she return?

But as I ponder, a big yawn escapes my mouth, and I take another deep breath, trying to shake off the fatigue.

"She'll come back," I whisper, trying to reassure myself. These are the last words I utter before my heavy eyelids surrender to sleep, pulling me into a deep slumber.

💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤

The sound of the door handle twisting open jolts me awake, and I struggle to lift my heavy eyelids.

I turn my head towards the door, wincing as the creaking hinges allow a sudden flood of light to invade our room.

I raise a hand to shield my eyes, momentarily blinded. Then, Kelly's unmistakable high-pitched voice pierces the air.

I lower my hand, choosing to remain in bed despite my growing happiness at her return, and listen with a mix of amusement and affection as she continues to lament about the darkness that had previously filled the room.

"Why did you sleep so early? I brought home barbecue for us to enjoy," she says, and I manage a tired raise of an eyebrow, gazing at her silhouette through squinted eyes.

I wonder how she managed to get a barbecue without taking her purse or belongings, but I shake my head, dismissing the thought.

"We have class tomorrow, and you're still going on about barbecue?" I mutter to myself, incredulous.

With a sigh, I close my eyes, choosing to focus on sleep rather than Kelly's antics.

But Kelly's chuckles jolt me awake, and I'm met with her teasing tone: "Tomorrow is Sunday, Mandy, and class starts the day after tomorrow. Are you dreaming?"

My lips part in a surprised 'o' as I realize my mistake. I let out a embarrassed hiss and shake my head, closing my eyes again.

"Well, then, I'm feeling really sleepy," I say, trying to save face.

"It'll go sour if we don't eat it now!" Kelly yells, her words punctuated by the sound of the door slamming shut and the bolt clicking into place.

"Get up, or I'll eat it all!" She warns, her voice growing louder and closer, but I ignore her, still feeling overwhelmingly sleepy.

But then, a strong smell of alcohol wafts past my bed, jolting me upright.

I sit up with a start, my eyes flying open, but the darkness is absolute, and I can't see Kelly anywhere.

The pungent scent lingers, making my senses reel, and I strain my ears to pinpoint her location.

Just then, I hear a faint thud, followed by Kelly's pained whisper: "Ouch!"

"Are you okay?" I ask, still straining to see through the darkness.

"Obviously not," she retorts, her voice tinged with irritation.

"Why did you switch off the lights, anyway?"

"Well, I wanted to sleep—"

"You knew I was coming in, so why didn't you leave them on? Now I've gone and hurt myself."

"Well, you could have switched on the lights when you got in," I say calmly.

"Oh please, Mandy. What if I have a cut down there? Do you think it's easy maintaining flawless skin like mine?" Kelly says, her tone dripping with annoyance.

I roll my eyes, even though I can't see her. "I don't think it's my fault, so stop overreacting."

"Oh really? I'm overreacting?" Kelly voice rises.

I fold my arms, my defenses up: "Well, yeah."

Kelly huffs: "Forget sharing my barbecue with you, you're already irritating me."

I frown, unfolding my arms: "you irritate me more."

"Whatever, you middle class just don't get anything. Lowlife." Kelly snaps, and I'm taken aback, my eyes widening in shock: "Huh?!"

"Excuse me?" I ask with a frown.

"I don't have time for your meaningless argument," Kelly says, and then I hear her collapse onto her bed, accompanied by the unmistakable rustle of a nylon bag.

I relax my frown and take a deep breath to calm my nerves before speaking. "Well, Kelly, you're being too rude, and I don't like it at all."

"Move out then!" she exclaims, her words reigniting the anger boiling in my chest.

"You should be the one to move out," I retort.

"I wonder what you're doing in a lodge with me when your daddy can get you a private room, rather than sharing with a lowlife like me – if you're not one yourself."

Then, I fold my arms with a smirk. "Or it could be that you're just faking it all."

"Hey!" I hear her yell, her voice angry and incredulous, but I just can't help but smile at her outburst.

"Well, Kelly, I'm not in the mood for a meaningless argument like you said earlier," I say calmly, my voice even and unruffled.

"Good night," I add, before flopping back onto my bed and pulling the blanket over my head, seeking refuge from the tension and darkness of our conversation.

With a contented and triumphant smile, I close my eyes, feeling a sense of satisfaction despite wondering if I'd gone too far.

I push the thought aside and take a deep breath, letting the sleepiness wash over me once more.

As I drift off, I tune out Kelly's continued complaints, insults, and the rustling of nylon, surrendering to the exhaustion.

💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤💤

Next morning;

A sweet and elegant strawberry scent wafts past my nose, gently rousing me from my slumber.

I let out a deep yawn, stretching my arms above my head, and slowly open my eyes. But the harsh brightness instantly assails me, forcing me to squint.

I sit up in bed, rubbing my eyes to shake off the sleep, and am met with the jarring sound of Kelly's phone ringing.

I drop my hands, my eyes now adjusted to the light, and watch neutrally as Kelly picks up the phone.

She's sitting on her polished wooden chair, her back turned to me, as she answers the call and begins talking. "Yeah, I'm almost done," she says, before pulling the phone away from her ear.

I wonder if she's still mad at me after our argument last night.

Then, she pushes the chair back with a scraping sound and stands up, hastily gathering her things from the table.

But I frown as I take in the dress she's putting on. Her braids are neatly packed and rolled into a donut shape, showcasing her flawless light brown back.

The two brown straps of her dress form an X across her skin, accentuating her curves, and a  fabric band cinches at her waist, hugging her curves tightly and extending down to her thighs.

The dress looks attractive, but revealing at the same time.

Then she turns around, and our eyes meet instantly. But I'm taken aback by her stunning appearance.

Her mascara accentuates the contours of her eyes, and her plump lips are emphasized by black lip liner and a glossy finish.

She folds her arms, raises an eyebrow, and gazes at me expectantly.

I frown, my eyes narrowing, and we lock eyes, but neither of us speaks, the tension between us thick and uncomfortable.

I'm not one to apologize unless I'm at fault, and I know I didn't start the argument.

But then she breaks the silence. "I'm going out to meet my boyfriend. You're welcome to come if you'd like."

I jerk my head back, surprised, and raise an eyebrow. "Huh?"

"I knew you'd disagree," she says, "but I wanted to make amends for my behavior last night. I apologize."

My expression softens, and I feel a warmth in my heart as she expresses her desire to make amends.

I smile and say, "I accept your apology, and I'm sorry too."

Her nuetral expression instantly transforms into a bright smile, revealing those adorable dimples on her cheeks.

"Want to come along?" she asks, but I shake my head. I couldn't possibly meet her boyfriend, Kendrick. No way.

"Either way, you'll waste my time," she teases.

I chuckle at her words and watch as she slings her purse over her shoulder and heads towards the door.

As she reaches it, she turns around, gives me a playful wink, and waves. "See you!" she giggles, before exiting the room.

I shake my head in amusement, feeling a thrill of excitement in my chest. I'm truly glad we made amends.

I reach for my phone beside my pillow and switch it on, only to discover it's already 9:00 AM.

My eyes widen in surprise - I've overslept and missed morning mass. But I chuckle at the irony, considering I don't even know where the church is.

I frown, however, thinking about how Kelly seems to have already familiarized herself with the area, despite us both being new to the university.

I shrug off the thought and get out of bed, heading to the wardrobe to pick out my outfit.

I pull out a black short, a sleeveless black shirt, and some innerwear. Then, I head to the bathroom with my towel draped over my shoulder to brush my teeth and freshen up.

Shortly after, I emerge from the bathroom with my towel wrapped around my chest and head back to my bed to get dressed.

I apply my body lotion, then slip into the outfit I had laid out earlier - the black short, sleeveless black shirt, and innerwear.

Now dressed, I feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.

But now, I'm faced with a dilemma - I have no idea what to do or where to go. I'm tempted to just stay in my room until my first class tomorrow.

At least I have my timetable and textbooks, so I know my subjects, but I'm clueless about the locations.

Thankfully, I have a cousin who can help me navigate the campus.

Still, the prospect of spending the day alone in my room seems dull.

I return the towel to the wardrobe and settle back into bed, feeling refreshed but uncertain about my day.

But then I remember the kitchen needs cleaning, and a sense of purpose motivates me to get out of bed. Cleaning the kitchen will keep me occupied, I think.

With newfound determination, I head to the kitchen and reach for the metal handle.

I push it open, and the door swings open silently. However, I'm met with a surprising sight that makes my jaw drop in astonishment.

The kitchen is immaculate! It smells like a pleasant detergent, reminiscent of Viva, and the brown tiled floor gleams spotlessly.

The cream-painted walls are equally pristine, and the ceiling's light bulb shines brightly overhead. I'm taken aback by the unexpected cleanliness.

The counter and sink, along with everything else, looks neat and inviting.

Could Kelly have done this?

I dust my legs on the rug beneath me, savoring the soft massage, and then step into the kitchen, my head spinning left and right in awe.

If Kelly did this, she truly did a great job.

I smile at the thought and reach out to touch the countertop, feeling the smoothness and coldness beneath my fingertips.

I inhale the fresh air, letting it fill me, and my eyes quickly scan the kitchen once more, noticing some of my belongings already arranged in the kitchen.

But are they really mine?

I swiftly step out to look for the bag containing my utensils and foodstuffs, only to find it's nowhere to be found.

That means she did help clean the kitchen. Maybe she isn't a bad roommate after all.