Chapter 1 - Graduation and Plans

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Time Check: It's 3:00 PM. My graduation ceremony isn't until 6:00, so I have plenty of time to prepare.

First things first—let me introduce myself. My name is Georgina Roque, but I prefer not to be called by my full name. Gina or George works perfectly—just don't ever mix the two; I find that combination quite lame.

I have a natural skin tone, complemented by light brown eyes inherited from my mother and brunette hair like my father's. I'm not the kind of girl who turns heads effortlessly, nor do I try to be. I'm average—more the type to go unnoticed and be okay with that. I believe I was perfect... well, that's sarcasm, of course.

Honestly, I don't see myself as particularly pretty, but I like to think I look presentable enough. I'm half Filipino and half white—my dad's white, and my mom is Filipino. I'm 22 years old, about to graduate from art school, and I couldn't be more excited to continue my studies at university next year. Though that's not for a little while yet, as I'll be taking a break after spring break.

Anyway, enough about me.

Spring Break! Ah, I've been waiting for this. My friends and I have planned so much, especially since we all have a long break ahead. To make it happen, we've been working part-time jobs after school for the past few months, saving up every penny. Now, the moment has arrived—our goal is to travel to Thailand!

Isn't that incredible?

"Gina, it's almost 3:30! Do you even plan on attending your graduation?" my mom's voice called from downstairs, cutting through my thoughts.

Suddenly, I remembered how much I still had to do. Makeup, hair, outfit—my friends would be here in an hour, and I needed to be ready for some quick photos.

I'd better get moving before my mom's lecture begins—her favorite pastime when I procrastinate or slack off.

I slipped into a white, knee-length lace dress paired with silver heels sprinkled with just a bit of glitter. Maybe it was a little over the top for the occasion, but I wanted to look good—after all, it's the last day of college. The outfit would be covered by the gown soon enough, but I still wanted to feel confident.

I curled my hair and started on my makeup—simple yet elegant. A smoky eye, sharp eyeliner, and voluminous lashes. A touch of contour, a highlight that made my cheekbones pop, and a nude lipstick that complemented the look perfectly.

Thirty minutes later, I stepped back to assess myself in the mirror. It was enough—I looked ready.

This is it, George. You're finally graduating.

A small smile tugged at my lips as I thought about what that meant. I've always wanted to be an artist—a painter, really. Since I was a kid, I loved holding a paintbrush. I remember my mother getting annoyed because I'd paint on the walls of my room, so she bought me my own sketchbook. It felt like a sign—perhaps I was destined to pursue this passion. I can't wait to make a living from my art someday. But for now, I want to savor these moments, to enjoy the celebration before fully committing to my future.

Doorbell.

That must be the girls.

I hurried to the door and opened it to find Angela, Joan, and Michelle—three faces I loved dearly.

"OH MY GOSH, GINA. YOU LOOK ABSOLUTELY STUNNING," Angela exclaimed, her eyes shining.

"I totally agree," Joan added with a grin. "Should I start feeling jealous?"

I couldn't help but twirl for them, laughing at their over-the-top reactions.

"Look at you three,"  my mother said, turning to admire them. "All so beautiful." As she spoke, I glanced over at my mom, who was watching us with tears in her eyes, clutching her polaroid camera.

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