I woke up with 20 minutes before my alarm would go off. I hear mom or dad downstairs in the kitchen. Someone is taking a shower downstairs. I had a sudden strong urge to go to the bathroom. It was Sunday so i didn't need to actually shave until tomorrow morning but taking care of it today will make tomorrow easier. I reached into the drawer grabbing my razor and went into the cabinet for the shaving cream. Within 30 seconds I had a dribble of water going and was mid stroke. Something seemed off... 'Yeah, I'm up early...' I reasoned. I finished shaving, making sure I didn't miss a spot, satisfied, I peed and washed my hands.
Glancing back at my reflection I took note of the faint perma-shadow caused by my thick beard hairs. I know by 9 am my shadow will be visible whether I want it to be or not. I bounded down the stairs, hungry for breakfast. I walked by dad who commented, "You smell good son." as I sat down. "Thanks, good morning all." I greeted, still half asleep.
Mom put some food in front of me and I dove in hungrily, it sounded like my sister finished her shower. "We doing anything special today?" I asked between bites. Mom said no, dad set down the paper, gave me a look, "I'm mowing the lawn today, wanna trade jobs? I don't even know what 'responsibilities' you've got today, but ill trade."
It was then that I realized dad's face was bare... its not that he shaved, even his shadow was gone... I opened my mouth to say something but the next realization struck me.. I touched my face and could already feel the sandpaper like stubble on my cheek. Mom saw me and touched my face too saying "Aww, my lil man."
"Mom! C'mon, Stop!" as I swatted at her. I realized nobody else thought this was strange, so I kept my cool but I thought very carefully about it and yeah, this is strange...
I stood up and stretched... Going to the garage I opened the door. My day was full of chores for the house and I wanted to be done before the sun got too hot.
