In The Midst Of The Universe

III.

           Everything went back to normal after the prom. The students became busy preparing for finals week. We barely had the time to hang out after classes because we have to dedicate our time in studying. After a few hours of sitting in front of my messy desk, I decided to finish reading my lecture in Biology and opened my laptop to write something for my blog.

Principles of Dating by Eli Torres

Take one step closer in finding your true love.

STEP THREE: Plan a memorable date.

Impressing your partner should be a priority when it comes to dating. If you're thinking of making memories with him/her, make sure you plan a memorable date. Take him/her on a camping, walk alongside each other on the seashore, or watch the stars at night in a rooftop. It's all up to you. Just remember to make your date enjoyable and unforgettable.

           "Post. Done." I told myself as I close my laptop and doze off to sleep.

           The whole school was filled with shouts of joy when the bell rang. At last, the finals were over. It's officially vacation! I gathered my things and put it on my bag. I was on my way to the locker room when I saw Alexa rushing towards me.

           "Quick, Eli! Come with me," She told me while catching her breath. Before I even answered, Alexis appeared.

           "What are you doing? Let's go!" He shouted excitedly.

           "Why are you guys so excited? What's happening?" Alexis didn't answer me. Instead, he held my wrists and pulled me to the parking lot. I was about to complain when we suddenly stopped in front of a silver Ford Freestar minivan. Its sliding door opened and Ludus emerged.

           "What's this Ludus?" I asked him.

          "Vacation? On the beach?" Judging by his voice, he seems so happy and excited.

           "But my parents would –" Ludus cut me off then raised his phone up. He already told my parents? Ugh, this guy.

           "You planned this beforehand, didn't you?" I suspiciously asked the three of them.

           "We did." Alexa answered. My jaw dropped. Why didn't I know any of this? And how about my clothes?

           "Since you're so busy studying for finals and you never check our group chat, you really have no idea. That's why you're so clueless. Anyway, I got your clothes. Don't worry." She said, as if she knows what I was thinking.

           I am starting to get excited about this spontaneous trip! Ludus threw the car keys to Alexis and told him to drive. Alexis caught the keys then went to the other side of the minivan. I glanced at the front seat and saw Patricia sitting there. She waved at me and I waved back at her. I was about to go inside the minivan, following Alexa but she suddenly stopped.

           "Alexa, move!" I commanded her which she did. When Alexa moved out of the way, I saw the reason why she suddenly stopped. It's Clarisse, sitting beside Ludus in the first row of seats. Clarisse smiled at me. I stared at her for a moment then forced myself to smile back at her.

           "Eli!" My attention was caught by the girl who called me. Feeling grateful, I looked at her.

           "Marielle? Marielle! I missed you! When did you get back?" Grace is Alexa and Alexis's sister. She's one year older than us. Grace is currently studying abroad and comes home once a year. And she looks prettier every time. I tried to ignore Clarisse and sat down between Grace and Alexa in the back seat.