Total pages in book: 26
Estimated words: 22709 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 114(@200wpm)___ 91(@250wpm)___ 76(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 22709 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 114(@200wpm)___ 91(@250wpm)___ 76(@300wpm)
I took his lips in a gentle kiss. It wasn’t rushed or wanting; just a simple act to seal our words. I only pulled away when his tears slid over my lips and down my chin.
“I’m sorry,” he said through quivering lips, “I’m so happy but so sad at the same time.”
I hugged him closely again, rocking him side to side in my hold until his sobs calmed once more. “Why don’t you take today off from this place?”
“I don’t want to get in trouble,” he sniffled.
“Sweetheart, you are allowed to take time off when you need it. That’s what sick days are for.” I couldn’t help my curiosity. “Have you ever taken a sick day?” He shook his head no against me and I smiled into his hair. I wasn’t surprised in the slightest. “Then you more than deserve a break. Why don’t you go home, get into some comfy clothes, and relax?”
After a few moments, Geo nodded. “I don’t think I can concentrate today anyway.” He propped his chin on my sternum to look up at me. “I wish you could come with me.” Per company policy, employees weren’t allowed to take a day off until they had been on the job for ninety days.
“So do I. But how about this; after work, I’ll go home and change, then I’ll come over. I’ll bring dinner, I’ll rub your feet, and I’ll cuddle you all night.”
Geo’s eyes grew misty again. “That sounds perfect.”
I dried his cheeks and kissed the tip of his nose. “Do you want me to come with you to talk to the boss man?”
“No, it’s okay; you need to get to work before you get into trouble.”
I was touched by his thoughtfulness, but, “Geo, if you need me, everything else can wait.”
A small smile finally crossed his lips, drawing one of my own as well. “Thank you, but I’ll be okay.”
“If you’re sure.” He nodded and I kissed his lips. “Okay. Let’s get out of here so you can get home and rest.”
I slid my hand down to the small of his back and guided him to the door. Before he unlocked it, Geo looked over his shoulder and requested, “Tell me again.”
I smiled, not having to ask what he meant. I told him clearly and proudly, “I love you,” and Geo took a deep breath and nodded before opening the door. My words gave him the strength to move forward.
After he promised again that he would be okay, Geo made his way to the boss’s office while I took my seat at my desk, where a pile of work was already waiting for me. I didn’t know how I was going to concentrate on my tasks when I knew Geo was hurting, but in order to care for him, I had to get everything done at work, and take care of a couple of things at home. Then I could give him my full attention, right where I wanted it to go.
I kept peeking at the boss’s office until I saw Geo emerge. His eyes quickly found mine, and he gave me a sad smile and wave before taking his leave. I began counting down the minutes until I would see him again.
Chapter Five
Geo
I sighed as I collapsed onto the sofa, having changed from my work clothes into loungewear. Jamal was right about taking the day off from work. When I was at the office, I felt everyone’s eyes on me, whether they actually were or not. I didn’t want to answer questions or explain to anyone why I was upset. I just needed some space to grieve and get my thoughts straight.
Although it was difficult to come home and see Richard’s empty tank. When I found him that morning, I gave him a proper burial in the backyard. I wiped away a tear as I remembered the way he would get excited to see me every day and swim in circles at feeding time.
The only solace I had was knowing that he lived a good life, and a much longer one than the two or three years betta fish usually lived. I also knew that most people didn’t get so attached to fish. They weren’t pets that you could hold or snuggle, but Richard was important to me.
I spent a lot of time in that big house by myself. Even when my parents were there, I still often felt alone. Having Richard to talk to and take care of helped me feel a little less lonely. I think that was why my parents bought him for me in the first place; he was something to keep my attention that wouldn’t make a mess. At any rate, I would miss him terribly.
I wrapped myself in a blanket like a burrito, and spent the next couple of hours flipping through channels I didn’t watch. I couldn’t focus on anything, but the noise was a nice distraction. I thought about making lunch, but I knew I wouldn’t eat it.