Chapter 4: Stepping Stone

2 0 0
                                    

It seemed to me like the rain intentionally refused to stop until we share our stories. We talked about a few more things and it felt like I knew him for years already.

"It's time to go. We still have classes tomorrow." he said.

I almost forgot the time. His class will start around 6AM and mine will be 12PM. Our school have this weird schedule scheme wherein Freshmen and Juniors take the morning classes, then Sophomores and us Seniors will take the afternoon ones.

"Let's go then." I replied.

So we walked to the bus stop and it turned we live miles apart. I from the north, and him from the South.

"I'll walk you home. It's too late, and you're reckless. " Chad insisted but I refused. I think it is too much effort for the day. But I was tempted.

"Your class early. Plus your travel time would be for a one rough hour. I can manage. Thanks anyway." It could be that he realized it too.

It was indeed a good night. Maybe because of the exercise that we had with my voice coach. Just like before, music really calms me down and it never failed to relieve my stress. Chad's presence might also be accountable for it, but... no. It can't be.
The follorwing dat, I got some tasks to do. We have a mass ever Friday and I still got 2 more days to prepare for the list of songs were going to perform. I arrived at the school headquearters 45 minutes early for my class. The headquarters is situated under the staircase leading to the school pantry and I'm surprised to see Chad approaching me.

"How's your sleep last night? I hardly got one." he said.

"Mine was nice. It's been a while since I had a good night sleep." I replied.

The bell rang as a sign of their dismissal, and the start of my class.

"I gotta go. See you around." I said. I wasn't really sure why I said "see you around". Like we have a date or something? Nah. It's just an expression.

The hours passed quickly because we're too busy cramming for the upcoming periodical exams. Just to mention, it's December and Christmas vacation is very much awaited than the Third Periodical Exams. You know, students.

I was on lunch break and checking my haggard-looking face in the ladies room. Two Junior students were giggling and they seemed exhilirated.

Junior 1: I'm so excited! Everyone in our circle passed the exam!
Junior 2: I know right? This is going to be fun!

Okay. Too much happiness that they couldn't contain themselves. But with their genuine reaction, I felt happy for them too.

"Mia! Come quick. You're taking forever!" that was Joyce.

So we headed to the pantry only to see Junior students piling up in a corner. They all seemed happy and relieved at the same time. I was in a moment of silence thinking what made them feel like that, when someone grabbed my hand.

"I passed too!" It was Chad. He seemef very happy. Whatever term you would like to use to describe a person looking extremely happy, he's like that.

"What?" I confusely replied.

"The military exam! I'm going to be a part of the reserves and will start training by next week. It's really my dream to be a soldier one day, and this is just a stepping stone." he said.

Well, he really looked overwhelmed. He said it all in one straight sentence.

"Congratulations! Wow, that was just awesome." I really don't say much, but I'm happy for him.

"Not just about the training. This means I get to see you everyday, the whole day. And we'll work together in programs. So we'll spend more time together. And..." he hesitated with the next lines.

"Okay...?" that was awkward.

I can see the frown on his face. He spilled it. He spilled it bigtime.

"I mean, you're going to be my commander somewhat." he continued with a lower voice. It was obvious that he hated himself for reacting too much earlier.

"Well, I haven't have my rank yet. I think it's gonna be the next announcement. But yeah, we'll see." I said.

It is yet to be announced. Probably before the end of this week. I made myself busy for the past few weeks so I haven't noticed the days that passed.

Back from lunch, the military adviser came to our room to announce that there would be a huddle after class. This could be the rankings.

Everyone is excited, but not me. I had enough extra curricular activities to work on. Whatever is given will be appreciated.

Come the huddle...

"Okay guys, this is the much awaited moment of truth. I know everyone is excited to get new tasks. You have earned these respected ranks for your hard work with the last year's training. Every candidate is selected based on your personality, performance, and capabilities." Miss Taylor discussed. So on and so forth.

My name was announced to be the  Batallion Commander of Charlie Company. Just like my sister. It was fun that I get to wear the same old uniform as my sister's. No need to patch it up since we both have the same initials. Ready to use. And hand me down. Pretty nice.

It took them 25 minutes to announce the rankings and we're finally free.

Chad was waiting at the lobby and asked me right away.

"So you're...?"

"Batallion Commander, Charlie Company." I said. It's actually not something to brag. It's like a legacy passed on to me from my sister so there's nothing much.

"Nice! I hope I would be under your company!" he said.

Little did we know, this moment will ruin everything. Our dreams, our passion, us.

---------------------------
I'm really really really sorry it took me years to update this! I've been busy with work then I realized writing is really my passion and I need an outlet. Please keep on reading and following my posts. Thanks for the support! :)

You've reached the end of published parts.

⏰ Last updated: Oct 14, 2016 ⏰

Add this story to your Library to get notified about new parts!

Heels and Combat ShoesWhere stories live. Discover now