Another Way Around

Chapter Ten

The next day, Gino did not pick up me. I didn't even see him at cafeteria during lunch. I looked for him everywhere but it looked like he didn't come to school. I went to his house after my class but his door was looked. I kept trying to contact him but it seems like there's no chance he will turn on his phone. I don't know what's wrong, I doubt this is just about the joke I carelessly delivered yesterday, if so, that is not so Gino, he is not that sensitive and he never kept resentment on small things like that.

As a walked home, I checked my e-mail on my phone. Gino left a message.

***

October 3, 2013

3:37 am

Gab,

I will be away for a while. I will be taking the next flight to New Jersey this morning by 5:00. I got an emergency call from mom and dad. This is about my older brother.  He met an accident on the road and now in a critical condition. I need your prayers.

Be safe always

-Gino

***

I'm perplexed for a long moment. Gino had a brother?! He never mentioned he has any. He said he is the only child of his parents. Where did he get that instant brother? But other than that, I'm more concerned with Gino. That brother of his might be dearly significant that he will rush to New Jersey as soon as he can. I e-mailed back and reassured him that everything will be alright and he can count on my prayers. I said that if he needs someone to talk to or just someone who will listen, never hesitate to call me.

A week passed and Gino did not call or e-mailed back. I want to know what happened to his brother or how did he had a brother in the first place but he might be very busy now caring for him and I don't want to disturb him knowing he is now with his family. His parents seldom went home, for the whole time I know Gino, I just saw them twice. One of which is during our high school graduation, the day after that, they flew back to New Jersey.

While Gino is away, I tried to continue my everyday routine without depending on him. I just continued my college life and tried to make it normal as much as possible. I walked to school, attend every class, pay attention closely to every lesson, have lunch with my classmates, went home, homework, projects, etc.. I just love where I am now. I never thought learning could be this wonderful. I never thought I'd find myself doing what I love. I can't image what could have it been if I followed my Mum and entered to a College and career I know I would never like even from the start. It terrified me every time I think of it.

***

Almost three weeks passed after Gino left. No call, text and e-mail from him since then. I'm getting worried. There is a great possibility that he will stay there for good. I wanted him to be happy, but I don't want him to leave me at the same time. I don't think I can ever find a friend that is as caring and loving as him. I don't want our friendship to be just a history and our pictures just old photos in the album.

"Are you with us Ms. Castillo?" Mr. Dominguez said to catch my attention.

"Yes sir"

I can't concentrate on my studies. One week without him is fine, two is tolerable, but three weeks is depressing! I just wish he'll get back soon. When Jake and Matea leave, it's easy for me to adjust because I have Gino, now, if he leaves, I have no one and again, I will find myself in a very dark place, going somewhere but heading nowhere.