Love Cocktail

World upside down

It's been a few days since we returned home, and now I'm reeling from a conversation I overheard between my parents.

"You know, it would be easier for Jade to stay with you," my father said.

The words hit me like a cold splash of water. My heart sank😑. I had envisioned my college years as a time of independence, a chance to carve out my own path.

That night, I confronted my father with a mix of frustration and defiance. "Why can't I live alone? I'm an adult now," I protested, trying to keep my voice steady. He replied "Do whatever you want since you're an adult now and don't need your parents' advice."

*. *. *. *. *. *. *. *.

Now, as I stand before the gate, the watchman hands me the key🔑 with a nod of recognition. I unlock the door and step inside, immediately greeted by the average-looking hall. The room is sparsely furnished-a long sofa, two beanbags, and a kitchen that is visibly dated. My eyes are drawn to the balcony, which, with its small swing and expansive view, seems like a sanctuary in panting.

My room, though small, is cozy. It has a bed, a sturdy desk, an almira, and a window next to the bed. Despite its size, it feels like a private refuge.

Feeling parched, I head to the kitchen. As I move, my foot kicks something solid. "Ouch!" I exclaim, stumbling back. It's that ugly vase again, its as misplaced as before.

"Hello Reader 🤗,You might be wondering if my dad actually meant those lines. It's a well-known tactic of Asian parents to make their children conform to their expectations. And now, here I am, not as a guest but as a roommate in Veda's apartment.

With the day free, I decide to unpack and prepare dinner. Veda arrives late, apologizing as she joins me for the meal. "I'll show you around college tomorrow," she promises.

As I was getting ready for bed, I heard the doorbell ring. I glanced at the clock-it was quite late for visitors. I cautiously approached the door and peered through the peephole. Standing in the dimly lit hallway was a man from the neighboring apartment, looking at me in a way that made me uncomfortable.

I opened the door a crack, just enough to speak through. "Can I help you?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

He didn't respond, just continued to stare at me. After a few seconds, he turned and walked back to his apartment without a word. Feeling confused, I closed the door quickly.

"Maybe I misunderstand it," I thought, trying to shake off the unease. I went back to bed, convincing myself it was nothing worth worrying about. Being new here, I figured that I my hear his doorbell as mine.

***********

The next morning, I'm in a rush, and the campus is a blur of activity as I search for my classroom. The hallways are buzzing with students, each one seeming to know exactly where they're going. I, on the other hand, feel like a lost tourist. When I finally found my class, the door was already closed. Taking a deep breath, I pushed it open and slipped into an empty seat at the front, hoping to go unnoticed.

As I settle, my gaze falls on the girl sitting next to me. She is a contrast to everyone around her. With a mullet haircut, the front layers short and the back styled into a casual bun, her appearance is striking. Her dark hair, highlighted with bold strips, complements the tattoo on her neck-a design that draws attention. Her trendy clothes, combined with a tablet in her hand and earbuds in her ears, make it clear she is more engaged with her music 🎶 than the lecture.

She is completely absorbed in her own world, tapping her foot to a rhythm only she can hear. Her aloof demeanor and edgy style suggest she marches to the beat of her own drum.

At first glance, I think she's someone I wouldn't mesh with. Her rebellious aura and unique style are worlds apart from my own.

Throughout the class, I observe her interactions with others. Despite her different appearance, she jokes and talks with a charm that's hard to ignore. It becomes clear that Anaya is something more than just her look.

The first few days in college went by in a blur. I immersed myself in the routine of classes, still trying to figure out my place in this new environment.

Days turned into weeks, and I got used to the routine, even with my classmate's annoying behavior. Veda's apartment started to feel like home. I mingled with my sis very well but I still have problems in school as I don't like my benchmate and I am not good at making friends.

One evening, I decided to take a walk around the neighborhood to clear my mind. The fresh air helped, and I found myself thinking about how much had changed in such a short time. As I walked, my phone buzzed with a text from Veda, reminding me of a study session we had planned for the weekend. It was comforting to know I had someone looking out for me.😇

*. *. *. *. *. *. *. *. *. *.

I was in a cab on my way home when my phone rang. It was Mom. We usually talk at night, so this was unexpected. I answered, and heard her voice, shaky and urgent. "Jade, come home as soon as you can. Your father had a heart attack and we're at the hospital."

***********
Write notes

Stay with me in struggle come in next chapter.