18
Aro
My head snaps to the door every time it slides open. I’m disappointed when someone other than Elowen walks in. I’ve had her bowl of spicy noodles ready for a while. I came in early in case she decided to get lunch before the rush.
The broth is starting to thicken in a very unappealing way.
There is no way I can give Elowen these noodles now.
I dump the bowl into the sani-unit and grab a fresh one.
After returning to my spot, I remake her lunch, taking care to add enough seasoning without making it too spicy.
I slide the bowl across the table and turn it a few times.
I want it to look just right for when she gets here.
I watch the door impatiently and swirl my own food without taking a bite. I want to wait until she gets here so we can eat together.
I check the time again. She’s late—later than usual. The tables around me start to clear. Lunch break is about over, and she still hasn’t shown up.
I look ridiculous sitting here with two bowls of noodles, clearly waiting for someone who isn’t coming. I grab both bowls, dump them, and go back to the security hub.
* * *
Dinner finally comes after an agonizingly slow day. I do the same thing I did for lunch. I replace her cold noodles three times before I give up and call it a night .
She’s avoiding me.
* * *
It’s been days since I saw her. I’ve managed to grow more irritable.
Today I have a pounding headache from my perpetually clenched jaw.
I told myself I would be patient and wait her out.
That resolution has proved to be more difficult than I was prepared for.
Every day I go through my routine hoping she will appear.
I lurk in the mess hall and rec room, hoping she’ll walk through the doors and put me out of my misery.