CONTRADICTED STARS || L. PARTRIDGE [1 | EDITING]

O5. The Worst That Could Happen

⋆·˚ ༘ * 🕯️

AS I WARMED the seat of my home, reflecting on my recent thoughts, I couldn't help but think about Louis Partridge and the struggle to rid him from my mind. It's bizarre, really. One moment, I am completely and utterly unaware of his existence, and the next, his face pops up in my head, almost like a haunting presence.

Living under the same roof as Priya, being an ultimate fan girl, only intensifies the issue. Her entire social media presence is consumed by Louis. From Instagram to YouTube, she gushes over him every single day, without fail. It's enough to drive anyone mad.

But I am grateful for the escape that lies ahead. I am finally getting out of this house and moving somewhere I can live by myself, away from the constant reminders of Louis Partridge and his obsessive fan taking form of my cousin.

College. What's the worst that could happen?

"Call us every day, okay?" Dior said and pulled me in a tight hug.

"Yes, you've got permission to live by yourself, but that doesn't mean you can do anything you want. Tell us about the boys you're crushing on so we can stalk him and tell you if he's good enough for you." Francis said strictly.

"College is stressful. Your papa and I are maths geniuses, so if you ever need help, we'll be right here."

"Opo."

〔 TRANSLATION. Opo is a polite form of 'yes' often used by people towards their elders. It is the sign of respect, also usually paired with 'po' which can be used in different things. 〕

"Also, if you need extra money, we're one call away. Your resumé is in there along with your headshot so you can apply for a job immediately. There are vomit bags there, you might need them later. Oh, don't forget about some of the books you packed for the flight."

"You really do like romance novels, don't you, amore?"

"Pa, malapit na po 'yong take off ng flight ko. Ayoko naman pong maiwan," I said and smiled at them warmly.

〔 TRANSLATION. Dad, the take-off is near. I don't want to get left behind. 〕

"Look, we just hope you're happy with the course you took. We've always known you to be creative and talented when it comes to writing and acting. Are you sure you really want to take entrepreneurship?"

"It has been decided, Papa. I can't turn back now, even if I didn't pick performing arts, I always have time."

"Fine."

They stared at me a little longer before cooing and hugging me tightly once again. "We'll miss you," Dior said.

"So much." Francis added.