A Day Off

I slipped on my running shoes and headed out, ‘The Distance’ beginning to play in my headphones.

As I left the apartment block, I saw Allen. I nodded at him, but he held out a hand, so I stopped and pulled out one earphone.

“What’s up?”

“Well… Happy birthday.” he said, sounding confused.

“Thanks…” I said, his awkward tone confusing me.

“I’m just… Surprised you’re running today, given it’s your birthday.”

I smiled.

“Well, sure, give myself a day off. And hey, why not Easter too, to relax? And then the occasional Sunday off would be ok, right?”

I ran.