Twisted Memories [Under Revision]

Chapter XII

Happiness

❝ Love isn't finding a perfect person. It's seeing an imperfect person perfectly. ❞

–– Sam Keen, To Love and Be Loved

It's been three months ever since I left New York.

Dad granted me permission to pursue my studies here in Amsterdam. They knew that it has always been my wish to study overseas. I had to sacrifice a lot of things. I've left behind so many people. I have chosen my dream over everything.

Mom asked, no––pleaded, actually––for me to accept this opportunity.

This is my choice and now there's no turning back.

3 months ago.

"Dear, we have to tell you something." said mom, her face was solemn.

The air felt so queer.

Dad and Justin gave me an unreadable look. I'm bewildered by the stares they were giving me. I feel nervous, it feels like what they're about to tell me will become a turning point of my life.

"During that time when you were in a coma, I sent an exchange student application on a university in Amsterdam." said dad, he took a deep breath and continued "Look, it's up to you if you want to accept this or not. We know that it has always been your dream to study overseas, and now the door of this opportunity has opened for you. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I want you to think this thoroughly."

"You only have 24 hours to decide, Emerald, I'm sorry if we're giving you a short time. Tomorrow, I will leave and if you decide to accept it, then you'll come with me." Justin added.

I felt my pulse quickening through my fingertips. I love it here in New York and I've built so many happy memories, I made friends, and I fell in-love here. There were so many things that would be left behind if I accept it. But, I also want to pursue my dreams.

"I'll give you time to think, dear." cooed dad, planting a kiss on my forehead.

I went to my room and did some musings.

I didn't know that I've been in daze for three hours. Suddenly, I heard a knock on my door.

"Can I come in?" It's mom.

"Yeah." I replied.

She sat on the edge of the bed. "You have to accept it, Emerald." said mom. I was flabbergasted by her tone, it wasn't suggestive, it was more of an order. This is the first time that I've heard her plead like this "Leave this place and grab this opportunity to start all over again."

"But mom, I don't want to leave here. I don't want to leave them here. I don't want to leave everyone here."

She held my hand tightly "I want you to move forward and this is the first step for that."

She had a point. I know that mom wanted what's best for me "But...I still need to mend things with him." and before I knew it, tears began to well in my eyes,

She gave me a soft smile and kissed my forehead "If you love people, you'll have to set them free. And if they really love you, they'll find their way back to you."

And she left. I've thought about what she said the whole night, I hate the fact that she was right.

Before my flight, I called the closest person who'll be able to relay the news to everyone.