MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE

Chapter 2

Stay, stay, stay

I've been loving you for quite some time, time, time

You think that it's funny when I'm mad, mad, mad

But I think that it's best if we both stay

Jhoanna sang along to the lyrics of "Stay, Stay, Stay" with her headphones on, bopping her head and swaying her hips left and right in her baby blue shorts and white top adorned with cherry designs.

This morning ritual made her feel like she was living in a teenage drama, giving her day an energetic start. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics always lifted her spirits and made her feel ready to tackle the day ahead.

As she walked to the bathroom, she faced the mirror and brushed her teeth, still humming the song with a mouthful of bubbles. 

After a few minutes, she spit out the bubbles and rinsed her mouth with water. When her favorite part of the song came on, she used her toothbrush as a microphone and sang with enthusiasm:

"You took the time to memorize me

My fears, my hopes, and dreams

I just like hanging out with you

All the time

All those times that you didn't leave

It's been occurring to me

I'd like to hang out with you

For my whole life."

She pointed at the mirror as if performing on stage and added some silly dance moves. Jhoanna was having a blast with her mini bathroom concert until a knock interrupted her. Hastily, she removed her headphones.

"What?" she asked, already knowing it was her cousin behind the bathroom door.

"I need to pee! ASAP!" Stacey shouted from outside. Jhoanna swung the door open, and Stacey immediately rushed past her to take care of her business.

Jhoanna left the bathroom, closing the door behind her, and began preparing her uniform.

She carefully hung her neatly ironed uniform, paying close attention to every detail. Her tie hung alongside her vest, perfectly coordinated.

Nodding with satisfaction, she smiled at her perfectly arranged outfit. All that was left was to take a sweet shower once her cousin was done.

Jhoanna's room was a reflection of her meticulous nature. Her desk was neatly organized with school supplies, and her bed was made with hospital corners. A soft, pastel-colored rug lay at the foot of her bed, adding a touch of coziness to the room.

A few minutes later, Stacey exited the bathroom, and Jhoanna quickly went in to take her shower.

The warm water cascaded over her, washing away any lingering sleepiness. She lathered her favorite lavender-scented soap, feeling refreshed and invigorated.

After drying off, she swiftly dressed in her uniform, each piece fitting perfectly. She meticulously tied her tie, making sure it was perfectly aligned, and slipped on her vest.

Jhoanna moved swiftly because she disliked being late, especially since, as the president of the council, she needed to be a role model for everyone. She glanced at the clock, noting she had just enough time to grab a quick breakfast before heading out.

Jhoanna headed out first since she had some early business to attend to at school. Her cousin, on the other hand, didn't care much about the time. Despite this, she rarely got late, which always impressed Jhoanna.