Headache

Headaches suck. That was the only thought he could get through his head. Over and over, all morning. And he hadn't even had a night of partying to make up for it. It was just one of those mornings. The newly risen sun was too bright. The glass of water was too cold. The aspirin tasted bitter even when quickly washed down.

He was just starting to relax and see a little light at the end of the agonizing hallway when his phone went off. Right next to his head. Naturally.

“To what do I owe this pleasure,” he answered. Or at least he tried. It probably came out as some sort of vaguely sarcastic mumble.

“Ben, have you seen the news?” It was his sister. She sounded scared.

“No,” he replied. “I just got up.”

“Just... just check it out,” she said. “I'm glad to hear your voice. And that you're okay.”

“Yeah. Just fine,” he lied. “Fantastic.”