That Sunday Morning

Like most Sundays, the ring of the alarm got me off my sleep at 6:30. I stretched my left arm to fumble for my phone on the nightstand, desperate to silence it before it disturbed her. With the alarm now turned off, I shifted my attention to her, turning my glance to the right side of the bed to find her in the calm embrace of slumber. She was sleeping as peacefully as a newborn, her head off the pillow and curled on my right arm. In the tender moment as I gently pulled my arm away, she stirred her eyes flickering open briefly to meet mine, murmuring sweet nothings before settling into the comfort of my embrace, her head finding refuge against my heart. 

Through the cracks in the blinds, a lovely, golden light from the early morning sun stroked her face. Her face was as serene as a lake waving a heartfelt farewell to the setting sun, radiating with a delicate, ethereal beauty. At times like these, I couldn't help but marvel at my tremendous good fortune and be grateful for waking up beside her morning after morning.

I turned to face the ottoman across the room. On top of it were folded-up pairs of socks, my shorts, and a football jersey. After a while, I got up from the bed and gently went to the bathroom to avoid waking her. I was once again quite cautious about opening the door into the living room after I had finished freshening up and changed into my football gear. I noticed that the sunshine had made its way to her closed eyes, and she grudgingly turned toward the wall, not wanting to greet it anytime soon. The comforter accentuated her amazing curves; she resembled a lily, gently bent by a mild evening breeze. 

Mochi came running towards me as soon as I entered the living room. She is a sweet little Shih Tzu who we got from an animal shelter around six months ago. The spark and enthusiasm that Mochi has added to our lives is abundant. I smile every time I recall how we decided to have a dog.

It was just another mundane evening, and we were watching Ted Lasso for the second time. 

I went, "I really think we're ready for a new member of our family."

My partner furrowed her brow, and she said, "I'm in the mood for Jason Sudeikis' humor, not yours.

I went on, determined to present my point, "Don't you think it would help us grow and become more responsible?"

She responded, "I may be a modern girl, but I can't even think about having a baby before we tie the knot."

Her remark made me laugh hysterically. I explained, "I meant getting a dog," and we both started laughing, collapsing onto the couch till our stomachs ached.

I made sure not to overlook Mochi's treat while I made a steaming cup of black coffee. My coffee was perfectly brewed, so I carefully poured it into my go-to tumbler and walked over to the car. The charming September morning spread out before me. It had been a hot summer, but it had given way to a cool morning breeze that made the day feel perfect. With my car's window rolled down and both the music and the AC switched off, I set off toward the field.

The trees, now ornamented with hues of brown and orange, announcing the arrival of fall, caught my attention as I was driving. All ages of people were already out and about, enjoying this magical Sunday morning. While the younger ones ran along the sidewalk quickly, those who had lived through more seasons were leisurely jogging and strolling. Some people were watering their plants and caring for their lawns, and others could be seen on their balconies enjoying their morning beverages. I continued to drive through these lovely neighborhoods in my area while sipping my coffee as the soft wind caressed my hair and the tranquil sound of birds chirping whispered past my ears. At that moment, I couldn't have asked for anything more. These were seemingly ordinary, everyday occurrences, yet in their simplicity, they held a profound beauty and contentment that warmed my heart.

Green Valley Park Soccer Field, NRH, Texas

It was 10 to 7:30 when I arrived at the field. Some of my buddies had already arrived. More people started joining us as we stretched and laced on our cleats, and the game started. We had a diverse group of players: there was the new guy in running shoes who frequently slid across the moist morning grass; the regulars who sprinted past most players; a few showboats who frequently frustrated their teammates; the reluctant savior who played goalkeeper for the sake of the game; some bulked-up players who dominated physically; and some who would quit halfway, blaming their lack of sleep or the number of beers they had the previous day. Sunday morning football was a haven for all of us from the stresses of daily life, whether it was for fitness, socialization, or leisure. The two hours would quickly pass each week. 

We said goodbye to one another when the scrimmage was over. I made the decision on the way back to stop by a wonderful cafe we had only recently discovered. We were drawn in not just by the coffee but also by the welcoming atmosphere, which we both enjoyed with its warm, earthy wood decor and low, gentle lighting. I bought her favorite pumpkin spice latte and two almond croissants as a lovely morning surprise. I also had them add an extra drizzle of cinnamon syrup, just the way she likes her latte. 

I wasn't expecting to see her in the kitchen when I walked into the flat.

I said, smiling, "I thought you would still be sleeping."

"I thought I'd make you your favorite smoothie and omelette for breakfast," she replied while adding some berries and bananas into the blender.

"And I have your favorite latte and some almond croissants," I added, exchanging a warm smile.

She was still wearing her comfy pajamas for bed, with her hair tousled and loosely pulled back in a bun. She may not have yet washed her face, but she still appeared flawless.

As I leaned closer to embrace her, she pushed me away, taunting, "Not when you're this sweaty and stinky. Go take a shower, please."

I made another playful reach for her, but to my astonishment, I slammed against the wall next to my bed. My phone was ringing, and as soon as I picked it up, my friend yelled, "Yo! Where the hell are you? We need you to bring the cones ASAP so we can start playing. Everyone is waiting for you, bro!"

Suddenly awoke and alone in my bed, I realized I had overslept and was dreaming.