Page 19 of Uprooted

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.