NMSC 6: Entangled Hearts (Tiaom)

24: entangled hearts

Athena: I wanted to tell mom and dad. but when I arrived. mom and dad were already struggling with their relationship. I set aside my problem coz I thought I could help them fixed it. but I didn't. I know dad was trying to stay strong but I can see her crying late at night. It's been two months since mom called her. and as I can see, mom has no plan to go back here. I cant add up to my dad's sadness. I want to help her. so if I can keep this a secret forever. then ill do it. for dad.

Steph: but,  this will keep haunting you. 

Athena: it was hard, but I think I'm okay now.

Steph: bestie. don't worry, I'm always here for you.

after that heart-to-heart talk. we had noodles. it's good to have a friend like Steph.

The next day, .. while I was walking at the pathway, everybody was looking and look at their phone as well. I had this worst feeling but I keep on walking. then Ariana blocked my way.

Ariana: oh my god, here she is. the lesbi .. (laughed)

Athena: move, I have a class to attend

Ariana: are you not updated about the latest news? 

Athena: what are you talking about?

Ariana: Oh my, she has no idea how famous she is right now. check your phone

I unlocked my phone, and I got so many notifications from a video tagged to me by an unknown account.

and I almost dropped it after I saw what the video was. it was my nightmare. the video that ruined my whole life.

and when I look around, they were all staring at me. I was so ashamed, I ran out of the university. 

I packed my thing knowing that Steph already watched it. I need to go when she suddenly opens the door. 

Steph: why are you packing your things?

Athena: I'm going home, dad needs me

Steph: is it really the reason? or this

she presents her phone to me.

Athena: you already knew. 

Steph: I already knew, even before this video came out

Athena: what?

Steph: The way you care about me. the way you make me feel how special I am. Do you think im stupid?

Athena: then why did you act like it's okay with you huh?

Steph: because I'm happy to feel how important I am to you. I'm happy to be around you. I'm happy coz I feel the same way too. I tried not to feel this way, but every day. it grows deeper and deeper. that I can't hide it anymore.

Athena: Steph

Steph: I know, this is not right. but is it still important? to choose what is right?

Athena: I don't know what to say

Steph: me too, but if I'm not gonna say this now, I might not get another chance. stay here and we will fix this together.