Liquid Courage

Night 014

    My mom used to tell me that the nightsky looks so wonderful whenever its Christmas time. When I was a kid, she loved to tell me stories about the stars. Maybe that’s one of the reasons why I am always fascinated just by looking at them.

And yes, there are a lot of stars tonight. I wonder if it’s because Christmas is only three days away.

Our classes have officially ended today, we were advised to take our short Christmas break and be back by January 7. I was supposed to be on the bus right now because my parents have been staying in the province since my brother passed away.

So really, what am I doing in the rooftop right now?

Alfonso texted me this morning that he has to give me something, and yes, I already have his number. He made this silly excuse on the Paskuhan night in order to have my number. Of course, I made sure to tease him first before giving it.

I actually replied that he should just give it to me in the library or in the caf where I’m working. I don’t know what’s with that guy but he insisted that we should meet up here at the rooftop tonight. I eventually agreed to him because he was super persistent and annoying.

And fine, I’ll admit it…I also wanted to see him before Christmas.

Oh gosh, why the heck do I want to see that annoying Alfonso? Of course, because he is my friend! Yeah, that’s just it. We’re friends!

When I heard the familiar creak sound of the door, I immediately turned my head and saw him entering. He was not wearing our school uniform, which he usually does when he comes up here. It’s kinda weird looking at him dressed in casual clothes.

Black pants and plain white shirt. He also had a gray sneakers and a black cap with a small cursive word on the side.

“Your style is so boring just like you, Alfonso,” I laughed.

He sat a few inches away from me in the gutter. Then he scanned me from head to toe. “Coming from the gal who’s wearing a gray shirt paired with black pants. Aren’t we just the same?”

“Whatever.”

He smiled and pinched my nose. “Marg, it’s alright. You can just admit that I look good tonight.”

I rolled my eyes. “You know what, I didn’t know it was actually possible for your arrogance level to go higher than the normal limit. You’re so---”

“---handsome. I know, but thank you for the praise.” Then he flashed his “toothpaste commercial smile”.

I playfully punched his arm and in return, he messed up my hair.

“So what now, Alfonso? I waited for you for twenty minutes so you better give me a house and lot.”

“Wow,” he displayed an unbelievable expression. “Just wow. I even waited here for two hours last week and you didn’t even show up.”

I patted his back loudly and with force. “Aww, poor Alfonso.”

He just swatted my hand away and pouted his lips. Sometimes I don’t really know if he’s a college student or a kindergarten. There are nights when he is super serious and nights when you’ll wonder if he’s a mental patient.

But arrogant Alfonso will never be gone.

I laid out my palm in front of him. “Where’s my gift?”

“Who said I’m gonna give you a gift?”

I elbowed him on the side. “Oh come on, you just have to admit that you’re giving me an early Christmas gift because you have a crush on me. I know I’m pretty irresistible.”