[a/n: Hi! Thank you for reaching this far. Hahaha! Yes, I'm already thankful that you made it through my prologue and 'bout to read the story itself. This is my first story and alam ko namang I'd be needing a lot of improvement in writing. Also, most scenes and stories I'd be having will usually be just a destresser of mine, all out from imagination (some taken from personal experiences tho lol). So, this short story is already done pero, I'd be open for suggestions or whatever changes might come. Before I end this lengthy author's note, thanks to my bff (who wouldn't want to be mentioned), for sticking by with me from the start of everything, especially this story and for doing the story's cover. Love ya girl! So, again, thank you so much! x]
- - - - -
It's another relaxing day with my favourite tea, on my favourite spot. Good thing I'm done with my tasks already. "Where are you exactly?!"
"You don't have to shout. I'm at a cafe. What's uuuup?"
"I don't want you to freak out but at the same time, I want you to." I rolled my eyes that made her roll hers, too. "Ay. High blood ka 'teh? You're exempted sa retention exam! I'm so happy and proud of you bes!"
"Ah. Talaga? Kelan lumabas yung results? Ano section ko?"
"5-3! Kanina lang. Ano ka ba, bakit parang hindi ka masaya?"
"I'm happy of course! Bawal lang mag freak out, people here might think I'm crazy." I let out a giggle. I'm happy. Really. I'm few steps closer to my dream.
Years ago, I passed the prestigious universities in the country but the pressure will forever stick with me. I had a hard time adjusting coming from a small school to a top university. I failed subjects but still trying my best.
"I'm going to pass this to Tita. Yes, I'm in your house, in your room. May sasabihin daw siya sa'yo. I miss you!" I smiled. Ang babaw talaga niya, she had tears in her eyes. I miss her already.
"Hi nak. I heard the news. Congratulations. I'm very proud of you." Halata sa mga mata ni mommy na umiyak siya. She's always been there for me. I'm glad I made her proud this time.
"By the way, your college dean called. She's asking maybe you could stay a few weeks more? Ikaw na lang daw sana yung student representative ng college niyo for a conference in London."
WHAT?! Representative?! You've got to be kidding me! Bakit hindi sila sa first section kumuha? Kaloka naman, ate girl.
"They chose you because they trust you, iha." Mom said as if I have voiced out my thoughts. "Besides, this is a good start for you to make a name on your own. So, what do you think?"
"Fine. May magagawa pa ba ako. I know you have said yes already."
"Yay!" Mom squealed. I knew I got it from her! "They have sent the email na ata. Just check it ha. Congratulations again, achi. I love you."
"Thanks mom. I love you too. Kiss me to ahia and shoti. Good night." I dropped off the call. Akala ko makakapagrelax ako dito kahit saglit lang. Hindi pala. But that was a good news. I passed.
After a good few minutes of taking in the good news, I checked my email.
Ms. Capistrano,
This letter is to inform you regarding the conference you will be attending in London on June 14-20, 2016. You will be with a former professor of College of Business, Mr. Jay Angtuaco for the rest of the event. Mr. Angtuaco will arrive at June 12 for you to have time to prepare and be ready for the said conference.
June 12.
Mr. Jay Angtuaco.
Only Mr. Angtuaco.
Shit.
Three days after reading the email, hindi pa din ako makapaniwala. Bukas na siya dadating.
Tinignan ko ang phone ko to distract myself, at least, hopefully. Macy calling... "And here's the one who'll save the day! Glad you called. What's up Mace?"
"I'm good. Asan ka? Tinatawagan ka ng mga kapatid mo kanina to FaceTime, hindi ka sumasagot."
I flipped the camera para ipakita sa kanya kung nasaan ako. "Wow, binge-watching. Ayaw paistorbo? Ano naman nangyari sayo? What's making you stressed out in England?"
"Sir J, Mace. Sir J. He's going to be with me for 8 days. 8 fucking days."
"Wait what?! Sir J? As in Sir Jay Angtuaco?! Yung... prof?!"
"Shit yes."
'Til the end of the call, Macy went blabbering on and on about how I acted during my first year of college. Kung gaano ko ka-crush si Sir J. And how I just went silent about it.
I was about to sleep when my phone beeped.
Nak, Mom told me the news. Congratulations! I miss you already. I'll visit you there before you go back to Manila. I love you.
Dad is making me miss him and the family too. Pero sige, I wanted this. Kaya to. Ilang weeks lang naman. I was about to sleep when another message slipped in.
Hi Elle. Mind fetching me tomorrow at LCY, 3pm? See you! :) From: Unknown Number
