Saphora vol.1 Retention

by Jaz Johnson

  Trying for the fourth time to tie the laces of her boots with shaky hands, she gave up, groaning and leaning back to tie them with her mind. She held her hands up to her face as she did that, trying to steady their restless behavior, along with the rest of her body. She shook her head, closing her eyes momentarily as her laces tightened on her boots.

  Fran could be heard walking through the hallway upstairs. She stopped when she reached Saphora’s room. Saphora’s eyes opened when she noticed and peered up at Fran, who was dressed and ready in her employee uniform. She leaned against Saphora’s doorway as she spoke.

  “You ready, honey?” she asked, tilting her head to the side. Saphora nodded lazily, grunting as she pushed herself up and off of her bed, stretching her back. Fran shifted the weight on her legs as she watched Saphora move with such a lack of energy, not being able to help feeling somewhat responsible. “I’m sorry for getting drunk last night, sweetheart.” Saphora shook her head, dismissing the apology as she walked up to Fran.

  “You were stressed. It’s fine,” Saphora assured, shaking her head and putting her hand on Fran’s shoulder.

  “You look so tired … Do you want to stay home for a little bit? And maybe come later?” Fran generously offered. Saphora scoffed, shaking her head weakly as she walked past her into the hallway.

  “I wish I could.” She really did. She didn’t know what to think about meeting her guardian for the second time. Only it was really like the first. She was scared, nervous, excited, worried, and curious, all at the same.