“What?” He glances at the other in mock confusion, as if the action would repel the girl from prying any further. He had been staying up later and later, and the lack of sleep was definitely taking a toll on his body. Between balancing university classes and staying up late for his job, Jake had no time for rest. His immune system had taken a hit, as it he was constantly sniffling these days. Not only that, but deep, dark circles had formed under his eyes, displaying his sleepless nights to the world. No one had noticed, though. Not until now, at least. But Jake didn’t want to concern the girl– it was bad enough that she’d made a comment already.
“I’m fine! Don’t worry about me, okay?”
The situation appeared only all too familiar to Hanna: in front of her was a young boy, hardly a man, who struggled with the duties of being a college student, a worker and a decent person all at the same time. That was exactly why she was so quick to figure out the reason behind his fatigue, even if he didn’t necessarily voice it aloud. Hanna was smarter than that, especially given the fact that she was in a similar situation where she would have to study throughout the day and work throughout the night. It was no easy life and it required a lot of hard work, effort and countless of sleepless nights but with the students being on winter break and temporarily not having to attend any classes, she wanted to make sure he would get the rest he deserved.
❝Look, I know better than anyone else what it feels like to work all night long, drink three cups of coffee and then attend my classes, as well as study. But we are on winter break, so will you please take some time to rest? It’s all for your own good, you don’t have to drill yourself this way. You’re only eighteen. Take some time to breathe, to live. All your duties will not run away from you, just take it easy, alright?❞
