The Sunshine State (BL)

Joe woke up to the sound of his alarm blaring that stupid jingle he’s been listening to every morning since he turned 18. He forced his eyes to open as he dragged himself out of the comfort of his bed, and onto the cold concrete floor of the garage he slept in. Most people think it’s strange for someone’s bedroom to be in a garage, but Joe believes otherwise. 

Ever since his half-sister Chloe moved in with him and his dad, she was given Joe’s room, and he migrated to the garage. Sure, the sound of the water heater and stuff is a little annoying, but it’s more spacious than his old room ever was, so it was a win-win scenario.

Joe threw on the same green shirt he’s been wearing since before he dropped out of high school, and a random pair of pants that was lying on the floor. If they were clean or not; he didn’t bother to check. He trudged down the hall to the sweet smell of the pancakes his dad makes every Monday as something to look forward to.

Chloe was already sitting in her chair reading some pamphlet about marine biology that she got for her 9th birthday a few weeks ago. He sat down next to her, and their dad brought them the pancakes shortly after. They both immediately started scarfing them down like starving animals, in the process spilling enough syrup to kill a Victorian child.

Joe finished eating and headed for the door, grabbing his work vest and badge on the way. “Bye Dad! Bye Chloe! Love y’all!” He called over his shoulder as he headed out the front door and got into his beat up 2013 Toyota. He pulled out of the driveway, preparing for another casual day of work in Florida; The Sunshine State.