Machiatto Encounter

Fast Forward Moving Forward

It's been a year ever since I left for abroad. I learned a lot of things especially on how I can sustain a business in a world full of competition. I thought I will be studying as a Barista. The next thing I knew, I learned the harsh reality that no matter how knowledgeable you are about something, you won't go anywhere if you will not make use of that gained knowledge to your advantage. Example, I already know which variety coffee beans tastes good once blended. But is there something else I can do to make my coffee standout from the rest?

I miss the place. I miss the whole city. I miss my family. I haven't seen them for a year. So, I decided to visit our family home first before heading to the Coffee Shop. While I was on my way home, I noticed a lot of changes. One of which is the big tree near the main road has been cut down. That tree was really really old. Well, there are things that don't really last. By the time I got off the cab, I feel nervous. My parents were against my abrupt decision way back. I left the country leaving my parents in dismay though I told them that leaving will do me good. Looks like it did to me.

I opened the gate and get inside our home. A few minutes later, I saw my Mom carrying our toy poodle Fluffy. When she saw me, she was stunned. Then, she put Fluffy down on the ground and walked her way going to me. Then, she caressed my cheeks and hugged me tightly.
"God! Serafina," She said with a warm voice. "It felt like decades." Then, she release me from her arms and touched my shoulders. "You look good. But are you still my Serafina? I'm afraid that you might have changed for the worse."
"Mother," I started while holding her hands. "This is still me. Your Sefi. But this time a much better Serafina."
"You and your Father haven't talk ever since you left. Not even in Viber." my Mother said. "He actually knows you're coming home."
"So where is he?" I asked.
"Well, he's still sleeping upstairs. I'll get lunch ready so that you can eat." Then, we started walking on our way inside our house. "What do you want to it darling?"
"Actually Mother, I am not that hungry. But since you will be cooking for me, I will still eat because I miss you." Then, I smiled and hugged her.
"Welcome home Serafina."

A few hours later, I decided to unpack my things inside my room. While doing that, someone knocked on my door. When I opened it, it's my Father.
"Father." I said. "I'm home."
"I know." He said with a low tone. "So how are you?"
"Never better." I said. Then, he came inside my room and sat on the chair near my dresser while I continued to unpack.
"Did going abroad help you move on Serafina?" He asked. I stopped what I was doing. Then, I sat on my bed.
"Well, somewhat Father." I said.
"Just don't do abrupt decisions next time. You got us worried big time." He said. "I just hope you're completely okay."
"Don't worry, Father." I started. "I made the right decision."
"Well, I just want to make sure my little girl is not going to waste her time in this world. But, I'm glad you're back." He said.
"Thanks, Father." Then, he gave me a soft pat on my shoulder and left my room. After a few seconds, I asked myself, "Am I really okay?". I can still remember the time I was still in pain because of Joseph. I had to wear a mask to hide my sadness so that people won't notice. But I never lied about my genuity especially towards the person I once loved. I was devastated. It felt like my world shattered into pieces. Well, I guess that was the old me. But I look okay. Isn't that enough?

Then, I remembered the last conversation I had with Joseph a year ago before finally leaving the building. The last thing I just want to remember is I left the elevator and left the building. I think the reason why I do not want to recall that moment is because of the pain I felt that time. Then, slowly, a memory of it came back. Now, the flash back begins. 

After I left the elevator, Joseph grabbed my left arm which made me face him. I stared at him and gave him a very intense look. The look in his eyes towards me is intense too. 

"Can't we talk about things? Can't we talk about us?" He said. "You can't just leave me like this, Sefi."

I slightly moved my left arm so that he can let go of me which he did. Since my box full of office stuff is a bit heavy, I placed it on the ground. Then, took a deep breath before finally starting to talk.