Fantasia

15

Eddy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I've never run so fast in my life. These work boots aren't the best to run in. As I tear down street corners and across the pavements, I take time to think about our history.

As I reflect, everything around me slows down, but I still feel the steady impact of my feet hitting the ground, like a metronome.

I first met Brett at a maths tuition class after school on Thursdays. I still remember it clear as day. I remember walking up to him, introducing each other. We soon realised we were both in the youth orchestra! I played in seconds, Brett was leader. After a few sessions of orchestra and tuition, we were getting on like a house on fire. As the years went on, we had more and more classes together, and we always saved a seat for each other anywhere! I would always come over to Brett's house, and he to mine, and we would practise together, play duets, and do our maths homework of course!

But, by the last year of high school, we somehow drifted apart. As we realised what our futures might hold, we shut ourselves away. Brett spending every break and lunchtime locked in a practice room, me spending every evening and morning slaving away at a calculator. I wish it had never happened, and I suppose I could have prevented it, kept in touch with Brett...

Once I open the door of my apartment, I realise I have tears in my eyes. Oh Brett... Why did I ever leave him?

If I had followed my heart back then, would things be different?

I catch sight of my vioin case in the corner, under the coat rack. I chuck my briefcase on the coffee table with a thud. No need for that any more.

I lift my case up gently, as if it was made of porcelain and would break at slightest impact. I carefully wipe off the layers of dust, and smile as I see the reddish brown leather once again.

With a violin in my hand and a joy in my heart, I hurtle down the Singaporean streets, back to Brett. He's sitting on a stone wall, just where I left him. He looks up and smiles, and gestures for me to follow him. I still don't know why he wants me to bring my violin though; I'm super rusty right now. He's got a sparkle in his eyes which I know means he's planning something. No one knows Brett better than me...