Missing The Sun

Chapter XXIII: The Sun Who Shines

"Sun."

The girl's voice rang out with a remarkable loudness as she called out to the stunning figure standing ten meters in front of her. The figure seemed deeply engrossed in her task, holding a stack of documents firmly in her hands. The petite girl couldn't help but stare at her, her gaze intense and unyielding, and a faint, almost timid smile crept across her lips, even from that distance where she stood still, silent, and unmoving, a contrast to the vibrant call she had just made.

It was evident that this moment represented one of the most challenging steps the girl had ever taken in her life. Yet, despite the difficulty, Ongsa had never experienced a level of freedom and joy quite like this. Two full weeks had slipped by since that transformative day, a day that sparked a spontaneous road trip she embarked on all by herself. During these precious days, she chose to skip her lectures, seeking solitude and a much-needed escape in order to discover that elusive peace she had desperately been searching for. And ultimately, she found it in her own way.

As her footsteps halted momentarily, her cellphone vibrated insistently in her pocket, interrupting her thoughts. It was a call from Moon, a name that immediately brought a swirl of emotions to the forefront of her mind. Ongsa answered the call, her attention split—half of her focus remained on the conversation while the other half remained fixed on the captivating figure in front of her. The few words spoken by Moon seemed to transport her back in time, evoking vivid memories of that pivotal day when everything began to change for her. It was a strange phenomenon, how a simple phone call could unravel the threads of her current reality and tie her back to the day that had set her on this journey toward freedom and happiness.

.

.

.

"Moon, why are we here?"

"Didn't you see my clothes? Let's play basketball."

"Why did you suddenly want to play?"

"Why not?"

Moon quickly passed the ball to Ongsa, who caught it firmly. Ongsa dribbled slowly, preparing to shoot while Moon positioned herself to block. Ongsa skillfully maneuvered around Moon and scored with a layup.

The game continued as they battled for points, both panting from exertion. Eventually, Moon decided to sit on the court while Ongsa, still eager to score, kept playing, finding joy in it.

"Tired?"

"What do you think? I can't remember the last time I played."

"Who asked to play?"

"Me, and it's fun. Basketball reminds me of the old days."

"Really?"

"Yeah."

Ongsa took a sip of cold mineral water, smiling in agreement with Moon.

"Why basketball?"

"Huh?"

"Why did you choose basketball?"

"Because I like it?"

"Didn't you dislike it in high school?"

"Yeah."