The concept of a "rude awakening" was redefined that morning.
Usually, Kael woke up slowly. He required a negotiation period with his mental alarm clock, followed by a staring contest with the ceiling, and finally, a reluctant acceptance of consciousness.
Today, there was no negotiation.
At 08:00 sharp, the blankets were ripped off his body.
"Up," Theo commanded.
"No," Kael replied, reaching blindly for the stolen warmth. "I have rights. I have a treaty with the mattress."
"The treaty is void," Theo said, grabbing Kael's wrist.
Kael was practically dragged out of bed. He barely had time to brush his teeth and throw on his uniform before Theo was ushering him out the door. The walk to the library was less of a commute and more of a hostage transfer, with Theo ensuring Kael didn't slip into a shrubbery to nap.
"You are being dramatic," Theo noted as they descended the spiral staircase to the basement.
