In The Waves

02. homecoming: fear

Dawn

I arrived in front of my unit with shaky legs, I could hear faint voices inside. I'm sure Lana brought her friends again and they're busy doing their projects and plates. The room became silent when I entered. They're all sitting on the floor in front of the flat screen tv. My frustration lessened when I saw how they stood up from their seats with a big smile.

"Ate Dawn!" they ran to me, except Lana.

"Hey! Hey! I can't breathe!" they let go of me and smile like idiots. They all lined up in front of me again.

"Ate Dawnie, we've heard you topped in Archi Department ah? I'm wondering why Lana is a Shin too bu--" Kai didn't finish what he's about to say when Lana threw something and hit his head.

The room became chaotic again. I excused myself while they arranged their things. I was cleaning up my face when my phone suddenly rang,

It's Mom.

"Hello Dawn? Are you free?" with the tone of her voice, I think I know where it is going.

"Lana's cult is here. They are expecting me to help them and I am going to my work after."

"How about tomorrow? Just a dinner with us Anak? If you can't attend the main event, at least come to our house? Your Grandmother's expecting to see you." I remained silent for a minute and I could clearly hear her sigh.

"He won't be here. Tomorrow morning he will fly to--"

"I'll think of it Ma, I ne--"

"Please Anak?"

"Fine. I'll be there before dinner. I love you Ma." with that I hanged up. My mini art class with these juniors started. I know what they need is my guidance.

They are busy so I start to prepare their food. There were only five; Lana, Freya, Dorothy, Kai, and Austin. Since childhood we all knew each other so I'm used to being with them. The juniors were too busy and didn't chat at all. It's funny because I've known they are noisy once they're together, but still can be silent like this for a meantime.

"Hey kids, I cooked for you, it can be your dinner too. Don't do stupid things. Boys, you know where to sleep later if you're having a sleepover here. I have someone to look over you so don't you dare try to sneak in some alcohol. Lana tumawag kanina si Tita. Umuwi ka daw bukas." They just say thank you then return to their projects and plates again. I checked my socmed accounts, no sign of her.

I packed my things and bid them a goodbye. I make my way out and proceed to the lobby. I know where to find my best friend. Serene is dating with her books. Just like Alex, she also took a med course. I went inside the library and sat beside her.

"Hey Dawnie, what do you need?"

"Grabe! I know you're studying within this hour so I came to give you some food."

"Know me too well huh?" she laughed a little and closed her book.

"Ano ngang kailangan mo?"

"Ahm, look after Lana's cult?"

"There, I knew you too well, too."

"I owe you one. Tha--"

"Hey. I didn't agree yet. What can I get in return?" Serene playfully asks.

"Lana's there so--"

"Leave now. I'll look after them, just go!" I laughed so hard when she already stood up and pushed me until I'm outside the room.

"You owe me a lot. Don't talk, just leave."

"Thank you my bestest friend. Bye sweetie pie!" she gave me a disgusted look and rolled her eyes.