Her Last Fall

1

"Indie Louise Alcott, you have just ten seconds to make your way downstairs or we'll be leaving without you," my mom's voice echoed through the house, a mix of excitement and exasperation.

I couldn't help but roll my eyes at her dramatic proclamation. She was beyond thrilled for our upcoming trip to the Philippines as we were set to celebrate my parent's wedding anniversary. But like any other teenager, going on a trip with your parents wasn't exactly my idea of a good time. Who wants to be a third wheel to their parent's lovey-dovey vacation? I'd much rather stay at home immersed in the world of my books than be a glorified chaperone.

"Indie!" my mom's voice called out once again, this time with a hint of impatience.

"I'm coming Mom," I replied trying to sound as nonchalant as possible.

I reached for my phone on the bedside table slipping it into my pocket as I made my way downstairs in a hurry.

"Oh thank goodness you're finally here. What took you so long?" my mom asked, a mix of relief and annoyance evident on her face.

"I had to take care of some business mom," I said with a playful smirk.

She rolled her eyes at my response, a familiar gesture that reminded me where I got my own streak of playfulness from. Sometimes, I couldn't help but wonder if we were truly mother and daughter.

"Are my ladies ready?" my dad suddenly appeared fromnthe kitchen holding the car keys in his hand.

"Yes honey. We're all set," my mom replied, her excitement is palpable.

"Time to hit the road then," my dad declared with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

...

After enduring the lengthy plane journey, we finally touched down in the Philippines. This marked my third visit and the initial thrill had somewhat faded with familiarity. Eager to escape into my own world, I plugged in my earphones and set Sonic Horizon's songs to shuffle. The melodies of the iconic band resonated deeply with me. Their music had been a constant companion since my early teenage years. While I cherished various bands, Sonic Horizon held a special place in my heart. Their songs, merchandise, albums, and even past concerts and documentaries shaping my musical journey.

Outside the airport, we lingered waiting impatiently for the resort's car to arrive. Lost in my own hummed tunes, I barely noticed a car pulling up nearby as three guys hurriedly boarding as if fleeing from an invisible pursuer. Their appearance hinted at a youthful charm that mirrored like a superstars. Yet, their identity paled in comparison to my need for rest. As the car disappeared into the distance, I released a weary sigh. Ten long minutes had slipped by, and our awaited transport was still nowhere in sight leaving me drained and yearning for rest. My mom lashes my dad for failing to remind the driver on our early arrival.

....

At last, after what felt like an eternity, our ride appeared. I settled myself into the car leaving the task of loading our luggage to my parents as exhaustion weighed heavily upon me dampening any desire to help.

This time, my mother had opted for a luxurious resort for our stay. While the reasoning behind such a choice remained a mystery to me since my parent's are money wise. We usually booked for reasonable price hotels everytime we travel even though we can afford the luxurious ones. But yeah, it's their money after all. Stepping into my assigned room, a huge smile spread across my face at the sight of its spaciousness dwarfing the confines of my room back home. It promised a haven for relaxation which I badly needed at the moment. With a carefree smile, I scattered my things across the floor before surrendering to the allure of the inviting bed.