Wishing Bottles

Chapter 4

Water splashed across my face. Bubbles flowed up as I sunk. The void engulfed me. The heat of the shining sun dimmed. A wave of calmness blew over me. The water caressing me reminded me of my mom. Is this why she gave up?
I close my eyes. And let the water take me. The silence was broken through quiet mumbling. Lazily i open my eyes and turn to the side to see my dad at the shore. The vein in his forehead looked as though any second it could burst. I close my eyes once again, entranced by the soft movement of the ocean waves.
When i awoke, lying next to me was Aouli. He looked calm. I hear a sudden shout causing my ears to ring and i remember. I jumped off a cliff. How stupid can get? Now everyone will be worried.
In my panic a doctor rushes in with a smile. All I could think was how is he smiling. His mouth moves like he is talking but I don't understand what he's saying. I assume its what normal things said like are you feeling any pain or discomfort. I tell him that im doing ok and i felt my dad squeeze my hand tightly. The doctor did a check up and my hearing got better as time passed. I blame my dad for being so loud when i first woke up.
The doctor left and said that i can return home in two days. My dad took this opportunity to ask what i was doing out in the ocean by myself. I can't tell him the truth, he'd be heart broken. "I went out because i saw something floating and then got carried away with the sea and i guess i fell asleep."
He looked at me disapprovingly, he knows that isn't what happened. I look up at the ceiling avoiding eye contact. The next thing i know Iolana bursts into the room and jumps on me. I know she was worried for me. I let out a "I'm ok. Sorry for making both of you worry" and Iolana starts sobbing. My arms wrap around her and my dad joins in for a group hug.
Guilt creeped up behind me. I should have backed away from the cliff. I should have told my dad the truth. I should have been there for dad when mom left us. I should have been a better sister even if all she talks about is boys and girly things. I should have been nicer to Aouli. Everyone deserves someone better and trying to leave only made things worse.
I tilt my head to look at Aouli. I'll be better.