[ONGOING] NOT JUST PENELOPE

8: The Proposal

PENELOPE

"Hey guys, how do I look in these?" Vanessa asked us as soon as she got out from the fitting room. 

She's now walking towards us like she's a Victoria's Secret model.

"Great! Fabulous! Magnifique!" Trixie commented, clapping her hands. 

Really? What's up with her today? She's so energetic. Probably because of her new boyfriend.

"Okay, I'll buy these. Wait there, I'll try some more."

I paid no attention to Vanessa and Trixie because I was trying out a cute 6 inches heels and I was also thinking about what dad said earlier.

You're a smart girl. I know that. I'm sure you'll find a way.

Ugh! I can't concentrate with shopping! If dad says I'm smart enough, how come I have no campaign ideas in mind?

I took off the pink shoes I was trying and stood up, frustrated. "Girls, I have to leave first. Time for beauty rest!" I announced, picked up the six paper bags from my shopping earlier and turned to leave without waiting for their reply.

Actually, I just made an excuse. A lame excuse, I know. 

How can I even have a beauty rest, when I can't even rest? My mind is restless. I badly need help!

 Campus Queen is so important to me. I have to win this!

I walked into the nearest waiting area in the parking lot. There's no one around here and it's a bit dark. Just perfect for what I really need right now. Peace.

I drop all the paper bags I'm carrying. I have to call Manong Rod to pick me up here.

*Dialing Manong Rod*

He picked up the phone immediately. "Hello, Manong Rod?"

"I'm coming there Ms. Penelope. Just stuck in traffic." He answered. 

"Okay, Manong. I'll be waiting in the Parking lot." then I hung up.

I was about to pick up my paper bags when someone wearing a black hoodie and a mask grabbed two of my paper bags and ran away.

I was so shocked from what just happened that it took me a few seconds to even realize that I've been robbed! 

SOMEONE JUST STOLE MY PAPER BAGS!

"Help! There's a robber here! HELP! ANYONE!" I screamed even though I know it was useless since I'm the only person here. 

SHIT! I HAVE TO CALL 911. OH MY GOD. My precious paper bags!

"ANYONE HELP!" I yelled while my shaky hands dialed 911. 

YES, this is an emergency! My paper bags are in danger! I panicked.

All of a sudden, someone from afar jogged towards me. A boy? He's wearing a red shirt but I can't recognize him. He's far and I can't see clearly even with these contacts on. Also, it's so dark in here.

I slowly walked near to him as he jogged towards me. And when he was in front of me, he stopped jogging, bent his body and placed his two hands on this knee. He's panting!

"Hey, who are you?" I asked. He slowly lifted his head and I gasped when I recognize him. It's that boy from the cafeteria! How can I forget this face that has embarrassed me in front of a lot of people?

"Here." He stood up when he was able to control his breath. He handed me my paper bags!

OMG! My precious paper bags! They're back.