Chapter 55: Jason’s bizarre day
Jason Knight awoke to the soft glow of sunlight filtering through his bedroom window. At 18, he already had the world at his feet—well, at least that's how it felt sometimes. Blinking the sleep from his eyes, he stretched and glanced at the peaceful figure beside him. His girlfriend, Emma, was still fast asleep, her blonde hair fanned out over the pillow.
Sliding out of bed quietly, Jason headed to the kitchen. He prepared a breakfast bowl of oats topped with fresh fruit and a protein shake to go alongside it. He loved starting his mornings on a healthy note, especially with a big match just a couple of days away against Huddersfield. As he sat down to eat, Emma appeared in the doorway, yawning.
"Morning," she said, her voice soft and groggy.
"Morning," Jason replied, giving her a smile. "Want me to make you something?"
She shook her head and stretched. "No, I'm good. But I need to talk to you about something."
Jason set down his spoon, instantly curious.
"I have to go to London for a bit," she said. "My cousin needs some help with a few things. It's just for a while."
"Oh," Jason said, a hint of disappointment in his voice. "When are you leaving?"
"This afternoon," Emma replied. "I'll be back soon, though. Promise."
Jason nodded. He wasn't thrilled about her leaving, but he understood. After all, he had football to focus on. "Alright. Safe trip. Call me if you need anything."
She leaned in, kissing him on the cheek. "I will. Thanks, love."