CALI
Drrrhhhhh! My alarm blared, shattering the silence of my small room. I shot upright, heart racing. Today was no ordinary day it was the day of my interview at B&S Incorporate, the company that could finally change everything for Edward and me. I had dreamt of this moment for weeks, yet now that it was here, a nervous flutter danced in my stomach. I couldn’t afford to be late. Not today.
I leapt out of bed and darted into the bathroom. The cold water on my face jolted me fully awake, washing away the last traces of sleep. I brushed my teeth swiftly, tied my hair into a neat ponytail, and secured it with a red ribbon the same ribbon I wore during my first presentation at college. It felt like a charm, a tiny talisman for luck. I threw on a simple white gown and slid my feet into red slippers, a splash of color against the plain fabric.
Once dressed, I opened my file and carefully arranged my CV, certificates, and other documents, placing them in my red bag. Each paper felt heavy with hope and expectation. One misstep today could cost me the opportunity I had worked so hard for.
The kitchen was next. I cooked cheese and macaroni, a quick breakfast for both Edward and me. I poured a portion into a flask for him—he had a doctor’s appointment later, and he hated missing meals. I ate quickly, swallowing each bite as if it contained my future. When I was done, I gently knocked on Edward’s bedroom door.
“Edward,” I called softly.
“Huuhh…” he mumbled, burying his face in his pillow.
I tapped him lightly again, then harder when he didn’t respond. His head popped up, eyes squinting against the morning light.
“We are on holidays, sis, for crying out loud!” he groaned, rubbing his eyes. Then he suddenly realized he’d shouted and covered his mouth. I fought back a laugh, but the morning urgency left no room for play.
“Don’t you know you have an appointment with the doctor?” I asked, exasperation creeping into my voice.
He bowed his head, muttering, “Okay…” then quickly smirked and ran back into his room, locking the d
