Sick days
Liu Xinran stepped into her quiet apartment, the absence of her family's usual chatter signaling their absence. A note on the kitchen counter confirmed her suspicions—her mom and brother had gone to visit her grandparents.
Alone, she decided to freshen up, the warm water soothing the remnants of the day's tension. Dressed in comfortable loungewear, she settled on the couch with her phone and browsed through Netflix, searching for a show to unwind.
Lost in the world of the screen, she grabbed some instant noodles, eagerly anticipating their comforting warmth. As the aromatic steam rose from the cup, Liu Xinran devoured the noodles, the taste a familiar solace amid solitude.
Satisfied and relaxed, she gazed out of her apartment window, pondering the uncertainties of tomorrow. With her family away, the solitude offered a mix of freedom and quiet introspection. Little did she know what the next day held, but for now, the peaceful evening was a respite from the usual hustle.
In the hushed stillness of her room, Liu Xinran stirred from her sleep, an unexpected jolt of pain coursing through her stomach. Groggy and disoriented, she glanced at the clock—3 in the morning. Alone in her apartment, a wave of discomfort overcame her.
Wincing, she reached for her phone and dialed her teacher, her voice a hushed whisper, "Hello, it's Liu Xinran. I'm not feeling well and won't be able to make it to class today."
Her teacher, understanding, wished her a swift recovery and reminded her to take care. Liu Xinran, after hanging up, navigated her way to the medicine cabinet, swallowing a couple of painkillers in hopes of relief.
The day unfolded in a blur of discomfort and rest. With her family still away, she appreciated the solitude as she curled up in her blankets. Between intermittent naps, she texted her mom about the situation, receiving reassuring messages in return.
As the pain gradually subsided, Liu Xinran reflected on the unexpected turns life could take. Sometimes, it was necessary to pause, prioritize health, and allow oneself the time to heal.
On the other hand, Yu Xuan awoke to the soft light filtering through his curtains, a routine morning melody playing in his mind. With practiced ease, he went through the motions of getting ready for the day – a quick shower, the crisp uniform neatly worn, and a simple breakfast prepared with rhythmic efficiency.
He sat down to eat, and after a quick breakfast, he was ready to head to school but a glance at his watch made him realize the early hour.
Puzzled, he wondered why Liu Xinran, his study companion, wasn't around. Shrugging off the thought, he assumed she might have had an early start or decided to sleep in.
Without dwelling on it, Yu Xuan grabbed his backpack and headed for his bike. The cool morning breeze greeted him as he rode towards school, the empty streets echoing with the rhythmic hum of tires on pavement.
Little did he know that Liu Xinran's morning had taken an unexpected turn, setting the stage for a day that would unfold differently for both of them.