Unexpected Morning Run

**A Morning Run to Remember** Ethan collapsed into his bed with a satisfied sigh, glad to be home after a particularly grueling semester at college. He relished the familiarity of his room, the scent of his mother's cooking wafting through the house, and the peaceful suburban quiet that his campus dorm room rarely offered. Exhausted from the journey, he fell asleep almost instantly. The next morning, Ethan woke up rejuvenated and eager to return to his regular routines, particularly his morning run. Grabbing his phone to check the time, he noticed it was already 6:30 AM. He leaped out of bed, not wanting to waste the cool morning air. Ethan rummaged through his suitcase, still haphazardly unpacked from the previous day's return. His eyes were barely open as he pulled items of clothing from the mess, confusing his sister Emily's neatly folded laundry with his own. He grabbed what he thought were his running shorts, a compression tank, and some snug undergarments—without realizing he'd picked Emily's thong, sports bra, and one of her more daring short skirts. He strapped on his sneakers, appreciative of the familiar comfort they provided, and quickly exited the house. The sun was just beginning its ascent, painting the horizon in shades of pink and orange. As Ethan bounded down the front steps and started his jog, he tuned out the world, falling into the rhythm of his run. He didn't notice the confused glances from early morning dog-walkers or the amused stares of fellow joggers. With music blaring in his ears and the wind against his face, Ethan felt unstoppable. He completed his usual route through the park, past the local shops, and around the lake, enjoying the peace and clarity running always brought him. During his hour-long jog, not once did he realize he was attracting attention for all the wrong reasons. Breathing heavily but content, Ethan finally returned home. He stretched briefly on the front lawn before entering the house with a grin on his face, feeling accomplished. His mother was bustling about in the kitchen when he walked in. "Morning, Mom! What's for breakfast?" he asked, grabbing a towel to wipe the sweat off his brow. It was only then that his mother turned to face him, her eyes widening in shock. "Ethan! What on earth are you wearing?" she exclaimed, her voice a mixture of disbelief and amusement. Confused, Ethan looked down at himself. Recognition dawned slowly, horror spreading across his features as he realized he was wearing his sister's thong, sports bra, and skimpy skirt. His face flushed red as he stood frozen in place, mortified. Emily, who had just come downstairs, burst into laughter upon seeing him. "Nice outfit, bro!" she teased. "You certainly know how to make a statement." Ethan's ears burned as he bolted upstairs, the mortification of the morning run sinking in. He quickly changed into his own clothes, vowing to never again dress in the dark. When he finally returned downstairs, his family was waiting at the breakfast table, unable to stifle their grins. He managed a sheepish smile, hoping to reclaim some dignity. "Well," he said, pushing through his embarrassment, "I guess I really did run like the wind today." The family burst into laughter, and even though Ethan felt humiliated, he couldn't help but join in. It was, after all, a morning run to remember.