TWO
Sydney plugged in the new phone which was the exact same as the one she had broken. She considered herself lucky to have been able to find the exact model considering she had purchased the original a few years before.
Next, she headed to the bathroom intending to take a bath. She put the stopper in and started the water. She added some bubble bath and kept her hand underneath until it was warm enough then adjusted the knob. As it filled, she got undressed and pinned up her hair.
After a couple more minutes, the bathtub had filled and Sydney shut off the water. She got in and made herself comfortable. She leaned her head against the wall and closed her eyes.
All of a sudden, Sydney heard the bathroom door open. She opened her eyes and sat up. She heaved a sigh of relief and settled back in when Francie entered. She laughed nervously. Jesus, you scared me.
Francie smiled a little. Sorry about that. I just came by to see how you were feeling. I was busy when you called, so I'm sorry if I came off as kind of a bitch.
No, it's fine. I'm just really bummed that I came down with something and couldn't do lunch with you. I'm feeling a little better, though. She smiled faintly.
Francie looked at her watch. I have to get going. I should be home around eleven or so.
Sydney said softly. Then she added, Thanks for dropping by. It was really nice of you.
What are friends for? Francie grinned. I really got to go now.
See you, Sydney said with a smile.
Francie said and closed the door.
Sydney rested her head back against the wall and again closed her eyes. The bathroom door opened again.
Quick question, Francie said.
Sydney asked, almost timidly as she sunk deeper into the water with the bubbles at her chin.
Did you pour some liquid down the sink or something? There's some weird residue on the sides of it, like something was splashed on it carelessly.
Sydney swallowed. Yeah, uh, the TheraFlu. That stuff is really nasty. I took a sip and poured the rest down the drain. I must not have been paying attention and then didn't rinse the sides.
Francie nodded. Okay, because I thought maybe—well—nevermind. I'll see you later. She started to close the door.
No, wait, Sydney said, sitting up. What were you going to say?
Oh, it was stupid. The thought of you maybe lying abut being sick and making the stuff as a decoy just came into my head, but that's just ridiculous, you know? Francie laughed nervously.
Sydney began, I mean, why would I lie to you about being sick? She managed a chuckle. A knot of compunction formed in her stomach and she sucked in a breath.
For a moment, neither one of them said anything, then Francie broke the silence. I need to get back, so I'll see you later.
Sydney nodded and Francie shut the door. Sydney let out a huge sigh once she heard the front door open and close.
She leaned forward to remove the tub stopper, then hoisted herself up and grabbed her towel. After drying herself off, Sydney put on her robe and called Will.