Fragments of Us

29: Ella

I arrived a day early for Mafe's graduation, so I decided to set up a surprise for her. Surprisingly, I actually made some friends during my two-year stay here. Thankfully, my coworkers at MG's Bar and Grill were beyond supportive, including our boss.

I paid for the decorations, foods, and services in advance. I made Alyssa, my best friend, relay the plan to Tatay Jessie so everything would run smoothly tomorrow.

I decided to just stay at Alyssa for the night, of which she was also so glad.

"How did it go?"

She asked as we sat near the shore, sipping at a bottle of booze.

"With my mom? It didn't go too well. Everything isn't so well, but I met a girl."

Alyssa made a spittake when she heard that.

"A girl? I'm happy for you, Ells."

She then hugged me sideways.

"I just told you I met a girl. I didn't say anything apart from it and you already became that emotional?"

I cringed at her.

"You're going to get that girl."

Alyssa patted my back.

"Trust me. Let yourself love and be loved again, Ells. I saw you almost giving up on life and then going through a breakthrough. Look at the life you made here. It's not so bad to start again."

Alyssa's words pierced through my heart, but I dare not say a word. After all, she's right. Just as I was about to give up, I found a place I could call home. I found the people I can go home to.

Friday arrived, and although I had a bit of a hangover, I didn't pay much attention to it. It's Mafe's graduation, and I have to make this surprise work.

It's already late, and it's dark outside. I purposely didn't show up at the ceremony. My phone's actually bombarded by so many calls and messages coming from Mafe. I bet she's already in tears by now.

Everything was already set up. We turned off the lights, and we heard someone stamping and sobbing. When we've confirmed it's Mafe, we turn on the lights and pull the confetti cannon.

"Congratulations, Mafe!"

We greeted her all together.

My baby sister's eyes were bawling because she really thought I didn't make it.

"I hate you."

She said this as I was hugging her.

"I promised, remember? I will always show up, baby. I am never going to trade you for the world."

I somehow felt guilty about the way I made Mafe feel. She really thought I wouldn't show up, but in the end, that night was full of love, catching up, and laughter.

This place will always be something to remember.