Fragments of Us

11: Ella

It's been two years since I disappeared into thin air from everyone I knew. It may seem unfair, especially to my mom, considering she's still grieving from my dad's death, but I never regretted a second of it. I came here wanting to disappear, only to find myself again. I came here shattered, but this place and the people glued the shards of my heart back together again. I came here all alone, but now I have a perfect family. I had a dad and a younger sister who loved me every step of the way.

I've learned how to surf. How to appreciate nature and be one with it. I got a job at one of the restaurants here. I serve food and drinks. I would also sometimes sing in front of the tourists. I've come to love my life here. No suffering and chaos. Only love, peace, and happiness.

Right now, I'm sitting outside our house, enjoying the wind and the sea, when Mafe sits next to me. Yes, our house. I moved here after a month because I couldn't really rent a hotel room forever. Besides, Tatay Jessie and Mafe seemed to love me at first glance.

"I thought you were at work."

Mafe said this while hugging and kissing me.

"Nope. My shift's not until the evening."

I kissed her forehead and pulled her close to me.

"Baby?"

I said this as I was trying to get her attention. Her gaze went back to me.

"What if I go back to Manila? Would that be okay with you?"

Her expression darkened, and she looked away.

"Why?"

Her voice almost cracked upon asking.

"I haven't checked on my mom for so long."

She immediately hugged me. I know she's already crying now.

"You're going back for me and Tatay Jessie, right?"

I felt her shoulders shaking.

"Of course, baby. You two are my life."

I hugged her tighter and wiped her tears.

"This is my home. You two will always be my home."

And we're both crying this time.

The thought of leaving them wrenches my heart, but I have been running from my past for so long now. Maybe it's time to face my ghosts.