Genesis

I nearly shoot out of my bed the second my phone begins to clatter on the nightstand.

[4:15AM]

My brother should still be sleeping.

I'll just get some light exercise before the sun rises.

I'm mindful of how close our rooms are, which is exactly why I lowered the sound of my alarm before I went to sleep.

Thanking myself silently, I shrug on a thin jacket and crack the front door open.

'I should leave a note. Mom and Dad might wake up soon.'

[Went out for a jog, will be back with groceries soon. Ming.]

I scrunch my nose at the imperfect handwriting.

'Sorry didi, it seems your older sister needs some practice too.'

Wedging the note under a cup, I begin lacing up my shoes.

The door shuts with a quick 'chik' and I begin making my way down.

It was strange how cold it could be in the morning, but once the sun came out, the entire city seemed to melt.

I instinctively stuff my hands into my pockets, digging my chin into my jacket to chase any remaining warmth.

I plug my earbuds in, and the dim lights of the buildings around me create a beautiful scene to run in.

Huff. Huff.

After I put aside sports for grades, my stamina's been getting worse.

"Haah."

After around 40 minutes, I slump down onto a park bench. The sun will start to rise within the next hour, so I should hurry.

I take my time walking to a convenience store. The heat in my body slowly slides off of me, and my sweat has dried completely.

Ddding!*

"Hi, welcome!"

I don't even bother to look at the clerk, and simply nod in their direction.

Some eggs, vegetables...instant noodles..?

No, scratch that.

I should be eating better.

"Just these, thank you."

The clerk's hair is hidden by a hat, and they're wearing a black mask. The air quality here does suck, maybe she has some breathing problems?

"Your total will be XX.XX."

"..Yes, here."

I tap my phone against the monitor.

"Ah- It may not work too well, let me do it for you."

She gently lifts the phone out of my hand. She felt so cold.

Ping!

"There we go. Have a nice day, miss!"

"You too."

I can't shake the feeling that I missed something on my list.

* The sound of bells at an entrance when the door opens.