His Getaway Car

Chapter 3

I'm currently working on our PowerPoint presentation for this Monday. I'm grateful that one of my groupmates volunteered to handle the PowerPoint itself, leaving me to focus on generating the content. We've collaborated well, assigning each member to their designated task. I believe that by working together effectively, we can complete the task smoothly and ahead of schedule.

"Why are you using your laptop right now? You should rest," my mom said, her brows furrowed with concern as she gently touched my forehead.

"I'm fine, Mom. I need to finish this since it's our school project," I replied, trying to reassure her.

I took a moment to look at my mother. She had a worried expression, but there was also a hint of understanding in her eyes. She brought my lunch and set it carefully beside my cluttered study table, the aroma of freshly cooked food mingling with the scent of paper and ink.

"Make sure to eat, okay?" she said, her voice tinged with maternal care.

"Yes, Mom," I replied, mustering a grateful smile despite the mounting pressure of deadlines. 

As I delved deeper into my work, the familiar buzz of a notification on my phone pulled my attention away. With several active group chats, I couldn't help but wonder if it was something urgent or perhaps related to school. Hastily setting aside my work for a moment, I reached for my phone resting on the bed. Unlocking it, I felt a surge of anticipation mixed with a tinge of nervousness.

My heart skipped a beat as I read the notification that had appeared unexpectedly on my screen.

*Isagani Lewis accepted your friend request*

 A rush of emotions swept through me, causing tears to well up in my eyes. I bit my lower lip, trying to contain the silly grin that threatened to spread across my face. It was a simple gesture, accepting a friend request, yet it meant so much to me.

After a moment of joyful disbelief, I returned to my work with renewed enthusiasm. Despite the looming deadlines, I couldn't shake off the excitement of this unexpected connection.

**

Later, I was lounging on my bed, scrolling through Isagani's Facebook. Turns out, he's not much of a poster, which kind of surprised me. But I enjoyed checking out his photos and the few things he shared. He doesn't smile much in his pictures, which got me curious. I wondered what he's like when he's relaxed and laughing. Will I ever get to find out?

As I kept scrolling, I discovered he's into cosplay. That was a fun surprise! Seeing his cosplay pictures made me smile even more. It's cool to have something in common with someone you admire. I also checked out some of the stuff he shared, like memes and jokes. I reacted to a few but tried not to go overboard. Didn't want to seem too eager, you know?

While I had some free time, I couldn't resist the temptation to keep scrolling through Isagani's Facebook profile. I noticed that many people were commenting on his posts, but he didn't seem to reply to any of them. I couldn't blame them for trying to interact with him, though; after all, who wouldn't want to engage with someone like Isagani?

As I continued scrolling, I stumbled upon a post that caught my attention. It was related to a debate topic, and it brought a smile to my face. It was yet another thing we had in common.

You see, I have a passion for debates. Actually, I'd say I love debates. Whenever there's a debate competition at our school, I eagerly participate. Being one of the debaters gives me a rush of excitement. I enjoy expressing and defending my ideas in front of an audience. Last year, I took part in a debate competition and, to my surprise, I emerged as the winner.