12 Minutes [ON HOLD]

I - The Call

Mystery creates wonder and wonder is the basis of man's desire to understand.

- Neil Armstrong

November 17, 20XX

There I was again, finding myself staring at my phone not expecting anything, but still hopeful. It's been weeks since this became part of my daily routine. It's really weird because I'm the type of person who's on a schedule. I do everything as planned, and I hate being spontaneous.

I never liked staying up late but I guess I've changed. This I never knew I could.

I usually just stay up all night when it's really necessary. I love to sleep, but these past few days I've noticed that I'm even excited to stay awake.

We're currently on our finals week, so I've got a lot in my mind and I've got too many things to do yet so little time. Something a crammer like me always complains about.

I looked at the pile of books I still need to finish and the paperworks I also need to run through. I frowned at the sight of how much work I still have left.

"Hey there Eclipse, good thing I got you as company." I played with my Siberian's fluffy head.

"Good boy" I complimented and let it lie down. "You're so lucky you know... You don't have anything to worry about. While I on the other hand, have all of these to study!" I exclaimed while pointing my hands to the mountain of books and papers on my desk.

After running through a few books and some paperwork, I decided to take a short break. I took a sip of my now cold coffee and my eyes caught my wall clock.

Time check 11:43 PM

It's almost time...

Weird but somehow... I always end up smiling with just the thought of it. I then began following the hands of the clock as it went by second by second. My mind began to recall memories that seemed just like yesterday's...

FLASHBACK

September 7, 20XX 11:26 PM

I just got home from my part time work at a nearby cafe' and man it was raining cats and dogs out in the streets. I've been living alone in my condo unit for 5 years now since I decided to move out. I work at the cafe' called "Rubiaceae" near my neighborhood to help out with my expenses since I don't want to burden my parents anymore.

I was in the night shift since I have classes in the morning. It's hard but there's no use in complaining because I was the one who asked for this. Although my parents kept insisting that I just focus on my studies and that they'll take care of everthing, I said no.

Wanting to experience indepence and have a taste of the real world, I moved out of our house after I graduated from highschool. Since then I've taken care of myself.

After securing my umbrella, I went directly to my room and took my phone out of my bag. This has become my only opportunity to see if anyone has tried contacting me.

A really tough day...

I found several messages from my friends and one from my mom.

From: Mom +639XXXXXXXXX

Gab, I hope you're doing fine. Please do visit us when you have time, mommy misses you.

I smiled and remembered it's been 6 months since I've last seen them. I just sent a reply to my mom and promised her I'd go visit them once I get the chance.

After taking a quick shower, I went to watch some late night news. I found out that there's a tropical storm that's headed towards the country but has not yet made landfall.