One Wish

27

During the swift three months that passed, Vincent did visit once again to flirt with her despite her repeated rejections.

And for two months, Elijah was gradually having fun when she returned to work at the travel agency. Not as a tour guide, but as an official photographer. And she can't remember a day that Jasmine didn't cross her mind. She had never stopped loving her. But life has to go on. Although every time she looked at the sea it always reminded her of Jasmine.

She knew that her father and aunt did not just want to talk whenever they saw her looking into the distance. Or the long hours she spends on the dock alone. Even Kiwi did not pay much attention to her. They are probably just waiting for her to express her feelings.

One day... soon. When the pain is not that much to bear.

Elijah was surprised when she came home from town that afternoon to find Marley in their living room and talking to her aunt Mihara.

Marley! Elijah exclaimed.

I'll leave you two. I'll feed the ducks. Aunt Mihara walked to the kitchen.

I've been here for a while. Marley said and looked tired.

You cross the sea just to come to and see me? Marley nodded.

Hush... it's like I didn't visit you here before.

What's the news? You said in your last message you were hired as an official photographer in a big-time magazine.

Yap. I'm the official photographer of the cover models.

So my best friend is a big-time photographer now.

Marley just smiled. Then she stared at her again, then asked softly. How are you? You lose weight a lot.

Am I sexier now? She said jokingly. When Marley didn't answer and remained to stare. Elijah sighed. I am getting there. And I'll guess why you're here. A personal invitation for you and Jacob's wedding. She said changing the subject.

Marley laughed. That's not it. But don't worry, Jacob and I are already talking about that. Four months from now, but there is no definite date yet. And of course, you are my maid of honor.

Elijah rolled her eyes. Thank you. What is this? She asked as she read the brochure that Marley had placed in her hand. Photo exhibit!

Yap. At Malibu. And we'll join. We'll rent a booth.

She looked at her best friend. Marley, do you know how much a booth is?

Marley shrugged. Dear, I know. But it's not that expensive if we share. And it's worth the expense, Elijah. That's your chance... our chance. Plus, maybe someone took our photographs for a famous magazine!

But I don't have a good camera.

You don't need to take new pictures. You told me you took a picture of Jasmine's yacht, didn't you?

Elijah nodded. The film roll is still in the darkroom. She has not yet developed it. She was afraid she'd burst into tears like a broken dam if she saw those pictures.

That's enough. You used her camera. And I'm confident in your ability, Elijah. I saw some of the photos you took when we were in college. It was good. And my best photos, especially the ones you took. I develop to life-size, you are the one who captured it all.

I'm nervous, Marley. Maybe we'll just look ridiculous there among the experts.

Shut up. I will arrange everything. Send me a message when you leave.

Are you sure this is a good idea?

Positive. Now get to work. Don't sulk. I'm leaving. She zipped up the shoulder bag at the same time as standing up.

It's afternoon, what is it?

Precisely. That's why I have to leave because big waves might catch up with us. I just rented a motor boat to cross here. Please tell Aunt Mihara that I'm leaving. And Elijah, I'm counting on you.

A worried sigh came out of Elijah's lips.

When Elijah told her father about the exhibit, her father immediately agreed. And even though she didn't say it, her father had already promised to give her enough money for all the expenses.

Pa... The corners of her eyes grew hot. Her father hugged her.

Don't let a tear fall, Elijah Hope. I'm sure these last few days you've wasted a lot of tears. Marley is right, you start working for that exhibit.

She smiled at her father through misty eyes. Thank you, Papa.

--

WOW! Marley exclaimed when she saw Elijah's photos of Jasmine. Fantastic!

Elijah was breathless. She can't believe the compliment she received from the two friends.

And so this is Jasmine! Why she looked like a goddess! Marley picked up another photo. And look at her eyes... so dark against the light. And this one it's like there's some kind of light playing in her head.

I, myself would like to buy one of these photos, Elijah. Jacob began to go through the photos one by one to shop. He was having a hard time choosing what he wanted when Elijah's soft and determined voice echoed around.

Those photos are not for sale, Jacob.

What? The couple said in unison. She refused to meet their eyes for a while. Then she let out a sigh. Those photos are in my personal collections. I'll put them up in the exhibit but I won't sell them.

Elijah...

Yes, Marley. And don't worry about my share of expenses. Papa gave me money. I'm going to sell my other photos, not those.

The couple shrugged their shoulders. Jacob had regret on his face. Marley understands her.

All right, let's go to the mall, Marley said in a cheerful voice. We'll fix it tonight. The exhibit starts tomorrow.

Many people were at that photo exhibit on the fifth floor of the mall. Mainly in Elijah and Marley's booth. The two didn't know how to entertain people who want to buy. Elijah also doesn't know how to refuse someone who wants to buy the pictures of Jasmine and the yacht. Others even offer great value.

Someone asked for her address and phone number, to which Marley immediately offered to give her contact number as she had nothing to give. Some left calling cards and she promised to work for them.

Marley's co-workers photographed the entire booth and Elijah's works, with her permission would be placed in the magazine. And of course, there is a fee.

Wow! Marley hugged her best friend. This is the first day and you are inundated with job offers, Elijah. What about the next six days?

Thank you, Marley, she said sincerely. If it weren't for you-

Nonsense! Marley scolded gently. I know you're really good. What you need is exposure. And this is it!

Elijah laughed. You didn't mention the right camera. And since I didn't sell anything, I also didn't have money to buy a good camera.

That would be the least of your worries. We will borrow from your father. Your father will mortgage your house.

Both women laughed. Then Elijah turned to stare at Jasmine's photos. The sadness immediately spread to her chest. She missed her so much. Days passed and she was smiling, but she felt so empty.

But maybe... just maybe she'd forget her... Time to heal all wounds.