Dad’s Morning Mystery

In the quiet embrace of early dawn, my father was always eager to begin his day with a refreshing wash, especially on those still, sleepy mornings. With every soft shuffle of his steps, I’d find myself rushing ahead, trying to beat him to the bathroom as part of our usual silent race.

One ordinary morning, the familiar routine took an unexpected and mysterious turn. As I got out of bed and made my way toward the bathroom, I heard my father inside clearing his throat. I paused at the door, then watched as he stepped out, drying his face with a towel. He looked alert, awake, already finished.

After he finished and left, I began to open the bathroom door. Then, to my surprise, I heard my father's voice behind me saying, "Wait, I’ll go first. I need to wash up". It was a shock to me. My father was here, and I had seen him coming out and leaving.
So, who was that mystery person? I couldn't make sense of it.

References

Family Narratives 2023, A Mother's Tale Dad's Mystery Ablution, UniJoud, Life Chronicles, accessed 21 December 2023.