Rude Awakening

Ethan wakes to the sound of his doorbell.

If he dreamed, he’d forgotten it, his sleep a haze.

Or maybe he didn't sleep at all. He felt tired enough that it could be the case.

Standing up Alex was going to result in a conversation at least. Ethan just didn't think it would be this soon. Throwing on some clothes, Ethan heads downstairs, the bell ringing again. Reaching the door and opening it, his theory is correct.

Alex stands in the doorway, her expression making it obvious she’s not happy. But she doesn't look furious either. She’s wearing a form-fitting t-shirt and sweatpants, which might be the most covered up she’s been since Ethan got back into town. But Ethan thinks her choice of attire might be a tactic, but what sort he can’t say.

“Early bedtime last night?’ she asks, her tone sharp.

“Kinda, yeah.” Ethan sighs, still feeling groggy.

“Hmmm, so is that your excuse?” Alex crosses her arms over her flat chest.

“No, I…”

“So you forgot.”

“No, I…”

“So you remembered, and stood me up.”

Ethan closes his mouth, feeling the hole getting deeper. He decides to just apologize. “I’m sorry.”

“For?” Alex bats her eyelashes, still looking unpleased, but again, not furious.

“For standing you up…”

“Hm.” Alex strikes a pose, tilting her hip far to the left with her arms still crossed tight. “Well, at least you admitted it. Apology accepted, but,” she uncrosses one of her arms, specifically to point up at Ethan’s nose. “There is no third chance.”

“Right… so, should I come over tonight?”

“No.” Alex shoots him down.

“Oh.” Ethan suddenly feels unsure on how to proceed.

“I’ve accepted your apology, but you’re not going to get off with me that easily.” She gives Ethan a smug smile. “I’ll let you know when I’m ready to properly forgive you. Bye.”

Turning on her heel, Alex marches off, leaving Ethan alone in the entryway.

Sighing, Ethan wonders how long that might be. If she takes too long she might miss her chance. Closing the door, Ethan decides to back burner the topic for now, focusing instead of getting a little bit more sleep.