I woke up to the sound of the violent rain smashing itself against any and every surface it could possibly find. I didn't want to open my eyes but rain has always been absolutely alluring to me, so I fell victim to my fascination. Captivated by the rain, I turned to face the windows and stared longingly out at the grey that occupied the space outside the windows. The buildings that were usually visible, were hidden by the rain and fog.
I was jealous that he had such big windows, while I possessed absolutely none in my apartment.
I sat up, drew my knees up under my chin, gathered the covers around my bare body, and continued to be hypnotized by the pouring rain and the persistent pitter-patter it made against the surfaces. He stirred in his sleep behind me and turned to face my back. I could feel his almost-silent breaths between the sheets.
It was only 8AM; I had a raging headache and was exhausted. I felt like I was in one of those frosted snow globes. I forced myself back down, back into his arms, back to sleep. They were strong and firm, even in slumber.
It was still raining when I woke up hours later. I nudged him and told him the fooball games were starting soon and he should wake up for them. He grunted, obviously reluctant, but got up nonetheless. I asked him if he had heard the rain earlier. He hadn't. He asked me if I had been awake since then. I lied and told him I hadn't. He turned the TV on and walked over to his desk to plop himself in front of his laptop. I rolled myself up in his blanket and channel hopped between games with few exchanges of words.
I now realize that we don't really talk or ever have anything really profound or meaningful to say to one other. Though I've known him for over a year, I feel as if I know nothing about him at all. It's like sleeping with a stranger.
My stranger friend.Labels: stranger friend