Chapter 9: The Bathroom Games

Even though I put out the cigarette, that urge doesn’t just disappear. Chloe was still washing up in the bathroom—how could I go in? Even if I could, Natalie was still in there.

I paced the kitchen, drumming my fingers on the counter, fidgeting with my phone, and seriously considering learning the 'bathroom schedule' like a college dorm. My stomach twisted in knots, and I tried to think of anything but running water.

Chloe came out. Natalie was getting water. Just as I was about to go in, Tanya slipped in ahead of me.

As a guy, it didn’t feel right to fight them for bathroom time.

I leaned against the wall, drumming my fingers on the counter. I didn’t want to seem pushy, but I was reaching my limit.

Before Tanya finished, Lillian went in, still in pajamas, to do her business.

...

It was as if these girls had a tacit understanding, taking turns in that tiny space without disturbing each other—leaving me alone in the living room, clenching my fists and holding it in, eyes wild with desperation.

I couldn’t help but admire their teamwork. They moved like clockwork, each one knowing exactly when to go in and when to wait. I was the only one left out of the loop.

What was I going to do in the future? If every day my intestines and bladder had to compete in patience, could I survive?

I pictured myself investing in a portable camping toilet or mapping out every public restroom in the neighborhood. This was not the adulthood I’d imagined.

Just as I was at my limit, hair standing on end, Aubrey noticed my predicament, covered her mouth and giggled: "There’s a KFC across the street downstairs."

She pointed toward the window, her eyes sparkling with mischief. I wanted to hug her for the tip.

"Thank you, you’re a lifesaver!"

I grabbed a pack of tissues and dashed downstairs. Behind me, Aubrey’s soft voice floated over: "Put on a shirt, don’t catch a cold..."

I didn’t feel anything going into KFC, but coming out, I realized I hadn’t worn a shirt. The staff stared at me, wanting to ask but not daring to. It wasn’t cold without a shirt on a summer morning, but I felt a chill in my heart.

I ducked my head and tried to act like it was totally normal. But when a couple of employees started whispering and one guy reached for his phone, I knew I had to get out fast.

Just as someone pulled out their phone—about to make me a TikTok meme—I sprinted out of the restaurant.

My face burned with embarrassment. I could already imagine the hashtags: #ShirtlessAtKFC #RoommateProblems.

On my way back up, I ran into Aubrey coming down. She was still blushing, covering her mouth as she laughed. I could only thank her again.

She handed me a granola bar and told me to take care. I promised to double-check my outfit next time.

Most people in the apartment had already left. Only Lillian was left, whistling as she put on makeup. From Megan’s room came the rhythmic sound of snoring—she wasn’t up yet.

The apartment was peaceful for once. I took a minute to enjoy the quiet before the chaos started again.

I quickly washed my face, grabbed my beloved green calculus textbook, and headed to the library.

I slung my backpack over my shoulder, determined to make the most of another day. Maybe things would get easier with time.