I woke up the next day feeling drained. I wished I could stay in bed for just an hour longer, but that wasn't possible I had classes to attend, a job to get to, and a legacy to uphold.
Turning to my side, I saw Molly still fast asleep, snoring softly as usual. Her snoring didn't bother me; I could sleep anywhere, anytime, if I had to. But there was no time to waste. Before I ended up late again, I pushed myself out of bed and went through my morning routine bath, brushing, and a quick comb through my hair. In no time, I was ready to face the day.
I wouldn't make the mistake of waking her up; instead, I minded my business as usual and focused on my studies. I opened the door quietly, and with a soft click, I was out ready to begin my day.
As always, I stopped by L'Oréal Pastries for a quick breakfast before heading straight to class. The smell of freshly baked bread and coffee filled the air, giving me just enough energy to push through another long day.
When I got to the lecture room, I noticed the lecturer hadn't arrived yet. I found a seat and made sure to keep a space beside me for Amelia. I couldn't help but wonder what was holding her up she was usually in class by this time.
I thought about calling her but changed my mind, assuming she was just caught up with something. But as the hours passed and she still didn't show up, I began to worry. What could have happened? Was she sick? Busy? Something didn't feel right. I decided I would call her as soon as my lectures were over, but the thought of her absence lingered in my mind all day.
When my last class ended, I packed my books in a hurry and walked out of the lecture hall, my mind still on Amelia. The sun was already dipping low, painting the sky a soft orange, but I barely noticed. I found a quiet corner outside the faculty building, took a deep breath, and finally dialed her number.
It rang once. Twice. Three times. No answer.
I frowned and tried again, this time pacing back and forth as I waited. Still nothing. That wasn't like Amelia at all. She always picked up, even when she was busy. My chest tightened a little maybe she was really sick? Or maybe… no, I didn't want to think of anything worse.
I sent her a quick text: "Hey Amelia, where are you? You didn't come to class today. I'm worried."
I stared at the screen, waiting for the "typing…" bubble to appear. But it didn't.
Something was definitely wrong.
I was still worried when, suddenly, my phone rang. Seeing Amelia's name on the screen, I let out a sigh of relief and quickly answered.
"Hello?" I said.
"Hi, Aisha. I saw your missed call," her voice sounded faint, almost tired.
"What happened? Why didn't you come for lectures?" I asked in a calm tone.
"Oh, sorry. I couldn't make it. I was sick running a high fever. I forgot to tell you, but I was pretty weak," she said quietly.
"Oh, I'm so sorry. Have you taken your medications?" I asked, worry filling my voice.
"Yes, I have," she replied sharply. "Thanks for calling, but I have to go now. I don't have much strength left. Thanks, bye."
Before I could say another word, she hung up.
I stared at my phone, confused. What was that? That was strange Amelia always loved to talk, and she'd never end a call so quickly. Something was definitely off. I tried to brush it aside, telling myself she was just sick, but deep down, I couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right.