Adam stretched his body before finally sitting up in bed, eyes still closed. He groped the small table next to the bed, finding his loudly ringing cellphone. Slowly, he opened tired eyes and reached for the phone. Staring at the bright screen, he pressed the button to stop the noise. In a half-awake state, he put the phone down and stared at the ceiling. Sitting up slowly, a groan escaped as sleepy eyes rubbed.
After a while, he took a deep breath and started to gather his mind back to the conscious world. But then, he heard footsteps approaching his room. The door opened and Adam's mom entered, an impatient look on her face. "Adam, it's already 7:30 in the morning! Hurry up and get up, you can't be late anymore!" Adam shook his head, trying to rise from his comfortable bed. He looked at his mom with sleepy eyes, trying to understand her words. "It's okay, mom. I'm getting up now."
"Don't just say it, hurry up and shower and get ready. You'll be late for school." After promising not to be late again, Adam hurriedly finished breakfast and quickly put on his school uniform. Though still sleepy, he knew the importance of not being late for school.
While making his bed, he promised himself to wake up earlier the next day. In hurried steps, Adam left the house and ran to the nearby school bus stop. A few minutes later, the bus arrived. Adam quickly hopped on, greeted the friendly driver, and sat in his usual seat. He gazed out the window, thinking about his unfinished homework.
Upon arriving at school, he was greeted with smiles by classmates who had come earlier. Adam sat in his spot and opened his books, preparing for the first lesson. He observed the blackboard,listening attentively as the teacher explained the topic to be learned that day. Time passed quickly and soon it was recess. Adam and his friends headed to the canteen, sitting together while chatting and eating lunch. Adam told them about his late morning, met with laughter and light teasing.
However, Adam's spirit remained undisturbed. He promised not to be late again and to be more responsible. Recess ended quickly and it was time to return to class. Afterward, Adam and his friends went to the science lab to work on a project assigned by their teacher. They worked seriously, organizing needed tools and materials, striving to complete the project properly.
After the science lab, Adam met his friend Justin in the hallway. They walked together toward class, chatting and sharing stories about their day. However, nearing the classroom, they heard a commotion. Suddenly, Teacher Lily, their former teacher, emerged and called Adam's name. "Adam, why are you late to class? This isn't the first time!" Adam was surprised and a bit nervous. He tried to explain well to Teacher Lily, but she was unsatisfied.
"You need to be more responsible, Adam. Don't let this lateness happen again." Adam apologized and promised to be more careful and punctual. After the reprimand, Adam and Justin entered the classroom, sitting in their spots and resuming the lesson.
When school ended, Adam prepared to go home. He waited at the bus stop, chatting with friends until it arrived. Boarding and sitting in his seat, he began the journey home.
Adam arrived home safely. He removed his shoes and greeted his mother before continuing with household activities. During dinner with Mom and his sister, a warm, loving atmosphere filled the house. They chatted while enjoying the meal prepared by Adam's mother. Her cooking made Adam feel grateful for their happiness.
Aftereating, Adam smiled at his mother appreciatively. "Mom, thank you for always loving us. I'm really lucky to have such a happy, loving family." His mother smiled back proudly. "Thank God, Adam. You children are the greatest gift in my life. I'll do anything to maintain your happiness." Hearing this filled Adam's heart with gratitude for his mother's love and support.
After bidding his family goodnight, Adam entered his room, warmed by sweet memories. In the silence, he thought, "How lucky I am to have this happy family. May this happiness last forever." Reflecting on dinner filled him with gratitude and joy. He prayed their family would know endless love and happiness. With a peaceful, thankful heart, Adam drifted off to sleep and dreams full of love.
Adam's mom entered softly, stirring him from slumber. "Adam, wake up dear. Please follow me." Still sleepy, Adam saw his brother Mark was with their mother. He rose from bed and followed her lead. She brought them to Adam's closet and instructed them to sit quietly.
"Stay here, Adam. Watch your brother. I'll return soon." Puzzled, the boys obeyed as she left them there. They wondered what would happen next while waiting for her to come back. Unsure what was happening, they hoped all would be well.
After she went downstairs, the brothers waited tensely, listening to strange sounds. They hoped things would return to normal soon. Suddenly, Adam heard a scream from their mother, followed by loud footsteps and a thud. His heart pounded as he thought of her.
Mark asked worriedly, "How much longer?" Adam replied, "Don't know. Let's stay quiet like Mom said." They waited with growing anxiety. Adam feared the scream came from their mother. Then a man's voice came from outside, confusing and worrying Adam further. He wondered who was there and whatwas happening. Staying calm for Mark's sake, Adam cared for his brother as best he could amidst the uncertainty.
To be continue....