The Space Between Us

21 - Lockdown briefing

Sunday 10th May

Afia had been waiting for the lockdown briefing speech by Boris Johnson all day to see what rules would be lifted and whether they'd have some source of freedom to see if Noah could be convinced to go out and meet. She was sitting in the living room doing her sister's nails when the clock struck 7pm and the speech started.

To be honest, she was a little disappointed as she watched because not much changed but she had expected that. They said some students would be allowed back to school on 1st June, the underground tube lines and stations would all open up again soon, people will have unlimited exercise time outside rather than just one hour. The biggest news was being able to meet family or friends from one household from Wednesday onwards as long as a two metre distance was kept and precautions were taken such as wearing facemasks.

Afia: Did you watch Boris's speech?

Noah: Yep basically nothing changes except you can go out a bit more but everything else remains the same. I was just hanging on for any news about when the pubs are gonna be open again

Afia: Yeah that's what he said but I have mixed opinions cuz people are abusing the lift and already going out chilling and getting on with their lives so that's going to spike up the rate. Then when the school restriction gets lifted the little kids don't know how to social distance, how they gona play at lunch and break? That's not happening. Plus they'll cough and sneeze everywhere, take it home and spread those germs causing it to spike again so what's the point of staying at home even longer being selfless when others are selfish, we'll just be stuck in for longer. I don't know what you think of that but I'm ready to claim my unlimited exercise and come work out with you if you're ever down. No chance are pubs opening anytime soon, set up a bar at home haha

Noah: See exactly, and then what about the teachers? I know that kids are more resilient but what about them? My mum works in a primary school and she raised the point that how the fuck are you supposed to keep 30 kids in one classroom separated at a safe distance? It's impossible, they're just little carriers. I mean my fridge and cupboards are always stocked up with alcohol, so we may as well set up a bar for the neighbours

Afia: Look at all these people in the park

Afia had read a news article where it showed how unseriously people were taking the lockdown and safety precautions during the warm weekend. There was a picture of people in a park on the pavement jammed packed with people having no regard for keeping any distance. She sent the picture to Noah.

Noah: Honestly what a bunch of fuckers. These people are exactly what's wrong with this country. Just don't give a fuck about anyone else. You just know if any of them had lost someone to the virus then they wouldn't be so casual with it, it winds me up.

Afia: Exactly, they think they have the right to do whatever while we sit here inside and it's true they would know the pain if they lost someone. Bless your mum, it's actually an issue cuz how are teachers meant to stay safe. Did she hear back anything about what's happening with schools? I know your stance on going out before it's all over so I respect that, had to say though that I usually don't like waiting for what I want and I want you so take that as a compliment cuz I'd be willingly to pass meeting all my friends to make sure I'm safe enough to meet you first and not put you in any danger that's how much I like you. I'll behave for now but best believe I'll probably have to get you out for a first date. I'm not scared of making first moves for anything. I'd probs be the one asking if you wana date me too

Noah: Nope nothing official but big man Boris said 1st June so she's got about 3 weeks probably. Ay thank you, I really do appreciate that, honestly though I'm sorry for making you wait but I know it'll be worth it in the end. Haha don't worry, I'll make the moves just make sure you don't reject me in front of anyone

Afia: Just don't keep me waiting forever. Why would I reject you silly, unless I have to worry that you might reject me but I didn't think rejection was a possibility after how much we talked and shared. I'm hoping it'll be worth it in the long run, if it does then you're my highlight of the entire lockdown

Noah: Haha I mean cos like I mentioned kissing you when I see you before and you weren't too sure about it so I really don't want to be rejected in public. Hm I think I should already be the highlight

Afia: After all the sexting we've done I don't think I'd want any other type of welcome from you. You want me to stroke your ego? I mean you already are the highlight but can't get you too cocky. I don't know if I'm your highlight or playing cod is

Noah: That's a good answer, can't wait to taste those lips. Oh please stroke my ego as much as you like. I mean cod's alright but you're a bit special babe