Breakfast

As you sat down for breakfast, the smell of freshly made pancakes filled the air, a comforting scent that immediately lifted your spirits.

Mrs. Geoff was busy in the kitchen, flipping the pancakes with ease. It was such a simple gesture, but it meant a lot—pancakes for breakfast wasn’t something you were used to. At home, it was usually just bread and a drink, a quick meal to start the day.

"Here you go," Mrs. Geoff said, placing a plate of pancakes in front of you and Sarah. The warmth in her voice made you feel at ease. You couldn't help but compare it to the coldness that had filled your home recently.

As you ate, Mrs. Geoff gently suggested, "Why don't you try calling your mum? Maybe she's ready to talk."

You nodded, but after a few attempts, her phone was still switched off. You felt a pang of worry and frustration. "She's still not answering," you said, looking at your phone in disappointment.

"Try calling Alison," Sarah suggested.

You dialed your sister's number, and after a few rings, she picked up. "Alex! How are you? Are you alright?" Alison's voice was filled with concern.

"I'm okay. Just... mum's still upset, isn't she?"

"Yeah," Alison sighed. "She locked herself in her room last night. She hasn't come out. I’ve tried talking to her, but she needs some time. I'll call you when things are better."

You thanked her and hung up, feeling a little better knowing your sister was keeping an eye on things. Still, the uncertainty of the situation weighed heavily on you.