heard a foreign language again, it was being yelled this time. Making out a few words, at least she assumed they were words, but not knowing what any of them meant. Then she made out one word, Rishika, which she guessed was the name of the female who replying from outside the door - in English.
“But ma, he’s still asleep. Can I just go there myself, take the bus? I’m going to be late.” More Hindi followed and then a defeated sigh came from the girl, Rishika.
Seconds later, Rishika was bursting into Kartik’s room. “Get up, lazybones, you gotta take-” She faltered upon seeing him already sitting up.
"-What?", Maisie stumbled her reply, confused at hearing her new voice.
"You're awake, that's not like you."
Maisie rubbed the back of her head. "...Today it is."
Rishika's shock washed away and she adjusted her attitude to be more determined, less caring. “Good. You’re taking me into town to meet my friends. Ma said. I need to go, like five minutes ago.”
“What?”, Maisie groaned in her new deeper voice. “It's Sunday... isn't it?” Given that she wasn't home, or technically herself, she wasn't sure if it was still the next morning or not.
“Kartik, get up and take me now or I’ll tell mum about the goree ladakee I saw you kissing in your Uber home last night. So get up, lazybones, I’ll grab your keys and wait in the car.”
“Okay,” was Maisie’s only reply after Rishika left the room. Then she pulled herself up onto her feet and grabbed a pair of track-pants and sneakers from the floor. Although she did do "the sniff test" before putting them on. After pulling on a mildy whiffy sweatshirt, she left the room and stumbled downstairs. Luckily, the front door was open, making it easier to navigate outside. Getting outside faster also help settle her stomach to get away from the intense smells of cooking and spices.
Rishika was tossing the keys upwards and catching them again. “Hey, I know you’ll probably say no like you usually do, but I have my learners and you are the BEST big brother ever! Can I please drive?”
Maisie found herself finally realising the situation she was in in this person’s body. She had to drive, someone who generally avoided it at all cost. This was not ideal. “Can you-?”
“Of course, if you’re in the car.” She clasped her hands together, excitedly, over the keys.
“Go on then.” Maisie let out a relieved sigh.
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