One Promise (Celestial Series #1)

Promise 9

#OnePromiseWp

Chapter 9

"Naomi . . ." Hinimas ng club adviser ang gitna ng ilong niya. She heaved a heavy sigh first, and it made my heart beat a little faster than normal. For a moment, I was worried.

What's wrong now? Sa pagkakaalam ko, I might have a shitty attitude, but I never made enemies or start up fights, most especially here in this new club. Maybe it's because of that story of mine that has been circulating the whole damn school since this morning!

"Bakit po?" I fidget my fingers to ease my rising tension.

"You might have heard the rumors, but I want to personally tell you this." Inalis niya ang kanyang eyeglasses at hinimas ang gitna ng kanyang ilong. Nang matapos, malaki ang ngiting iginawad niya sa akin at masiglang ibinalita. "I was astound with what you've written in your writing class entry. I presumed, that's your mom's story? I can feel the overflowing emotions within those words and I would love it to be the main storyline of the school's play for the upcoming school festival, Miss Angeles! It encompasses the school's main goal: To be one of the best Christian living example."

"I-I don't know what to say," I stammered.

"You have talent, Naomi. I think this piece you wrote deserves this. That's why we won't take no for an answer," encouraged by our club adviser.

Umaayos ako ng upo. "But, ma'am, I don't think I can do this. I'm not someone who attracts crowds. I'm lame and a complete nobody."

"Uh-uh!" sagot naman ng club adviser namin. "We're not looking for the outward appearance, Naomi. Just because you're lame or someone who doesn't attract crowds, it will prevent you to achieve something great. That's not how it works. In your case, you've earned it with the grace of your words, Naomi. That's why we think it would fit to be part of the anniversary play."

Ngumuso ako. "Wait, miss, you don't understand, I'm an Angeles. Angeles are known for sports and not for some writing competition." I explained to her. "My father wouldn't agree to this! We should really not consider the piece . . . I really don't think it's worth the shot, miss."

Humugot ng malalim na hininga ang aming club adviser. Walang tao roon dahil nasa private office niya kami. "You have a gift, Naomi. In this club, you're required to use it, well . . . there's another option if you want. Fail and graduate next year perhaps?" Umangat ang kilay niya at nanghahamon niya akong tiningnan.

"But, ma'am, my arms are cast. I can't even write straight. All the more produce a complete shot of the story." I tried to raise my covered arm and smiled charmingly.

"Oh? Then I'll cast your entry pass to graduation as well." she retorted back. "Besides, who told you that you'd be alone? I'll assign your clubmates to be you other hands. We'll guide each other because we should treat each other as families."

My smile faltered and I groaned. "You're kidding, right?"

Her lips curved into a mischievous smile. "Miss Angeles, do I look like someone who jokes around? Should I joke with your grades, too?"

"But, miss!" I groaned again.

Umiling ang aming club adviser. "No! The decision has been done. Besides, this decision wasn't only based on my opinion. Right after I've chosen your manuscript, I passed it on to the guidance counselor and our vice president for re-checking and approval. So . . . " She let out a tired sigh. "The decision wasn't mine alone."

"But . . . miss."

Pumungay ang kanyang mata. She confidently gazed at me as her eyes followed mine. She continued staring into my eyes na parang may hinahanap na kung ano sa aking mga mata. "In life struggles . . . it's okay to rest if you're tired, Naomi. Look for diversions to ease your mind and soul with all of these, but it's never okay . . . to give up. Because no one will fight for you, except yourself. If you want to achieve something, make sure to fight for it until the end."