The streets of the neighborhood were quiet under the soft glow of streetlights. A gentle breeze rustled leaves, and the occasional sound of cars passing by broke the night's calm.
Darla walked briskly, her work bag slung over one shoulder, her heels clicking lightly on the pavement.
She called out to a few shop owners in the streets and exchanged pleasantries.
By the time she reached her home, the streetlights cast a warm, familiar glow across the walls and windows. She unlocked the door and stepped inside.
"Mom? Emma?" She called out as she walks into the living room.
Her cousin was sprawled on the couch, eyes glued to the TV. A romantic scene played out on the screen, complete with dramatic music and passionate dialogue.
"Hey girl! About time you got home," Emma said facing her. "You missed all the good parts. What took you so long? You're rarely this late." Emma asked now concerned and giving her a questioning look.
"Long story." Darla replied. "I had to deal with a very annoying customer who just kept yelling at me and the other staff and we had to get the manager to intervene and it took a while." Darla explained just as she removed her bag and sank on the couch Emma was seated out of exhaustion.
"Sounds like a lot." Emma said "Sorry about that." She added.
"Thanks. By the way, where's mom?"
"She's asleep." Emma replied and returned her gaze to the TV.
Darla letting out a sigh said "I'd love to stay and catch up, but I've got to sleep as I have work tomorrow."
"Wait, what? When did you start working weekends?" Emma asked, eyes probing.
"Well, the bar is short on staff, workers are being laid off and they need all hands on deck." She explained.
Sighing "you really need to get another job because there's no way a graduate of Architecture should be working at a bar." Emma said slightly irritated now starting at her like she's wasting her destiny.
Darla smiled because she had heard that line too many times.
"Life is life, Emma."
With that, Darla got up, went to her room and slumped on her bed out of exhaustion. Staring at the ceiling, she drifted off to sleep.