The morning came too soon, the light filtering through the blinds casting stripes on the floor.
Jamie was already up, sipping coffee and scrolling through the phone.
I joined at the table, the silence between us heavy.
The appointment was set for mid-morning, and I felt the minutes slipping away.
The pest control specialist would arrive soon, and with them, the end of my uneasy alliance with the centipedes.
I needed to decide if I would say anything, try to spare them.
But what could I say that wouldn’t sound ridiculous?
Jamie seemed oblivious to my inner turmoil, focused on the screen.
The clock ticked loudly in the quiet room, each second a reminder of what was coming.
Finally, Jamie spoke, breaking the silence.
“You okay?”
I nodded, though my heart wasn’t in it.
“Just tired,” I replied, hoping it explained away my unease.
Jamie nodded, accepting the answer without further question.
The doorbell rang, echoing through the apartment.
Jamie stood up, setting the mug down with a clink.
“It’s time,” Jamie said, heading to answer the door.
I stayed seated, my mind racing with what-ifs.
What if I just asked them to leave the centipedes alone?
But Jamie was already opening the door, greeting the pest control specialist.
I forced myself to stand, joining them, trying to look composed.
The specialist was brisk, professional, outlining the plan.
Jamie nodded along, approving every step.
I hovered on the edge of the conversation, feeling out of place.
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