Scintilla and Scent

II: Whispering Scent

Chapter 2

“Willow, what are you doing?” I got up from bed. I named the white cat, Willow. Simula ng dumating ako, lagi na siyang bumubuntot sa'kin. It's early in the morning and as I checked the wall clock, it's already six. I stretched my hands and wore my slippers. “Willow let's go downstairs.”

I went down and gladly he followed me. He seemed so nice and sweet. The first time I saw this cat, I think we had a strong connection.

“Good morning couz! Tara kape,” bati ni Bentley.

“Good morning, si lola?” I sat down.

“Nagluluto ng agahan, dalawa sila ni papa,” he answered as he sipped his coffee.

“I see— so what time tayo aalis?” I started mixing my coffee.

“Mga 7:30, kasi may mga 15 minutes 'yung travel natin eh,” sagot nito. “Ayoko rin ma-late tayo sa klase natin.”

I nodded. Today is the first day of our class in my new university. I don't know what awaits me there, but I think I need to face my new world as of this moment.

After eating our breakfast, I fixed myself then I and Bentley left. Siya  ang nagmamaneho ng hindi naman kalumaan na kotse. As we passed by the greenery, I felt relaxed. Sa Texas kasi, masyadong mabilis ang phasing ng time. Lahat ng tao busy at wala ng time mag-moment.

“Nandito na tayo couz—” Bentley parked the car and I went out.

I was welcomed by a classic university. I took a deep breath as I did my first step going inside. There's a wide green lush field and the center of it, was a pathway that directed us to the main building. I was amazed by the fountain and on the other side the black color sculptures.

The buildings boasted siliceous bricks  matched with white paint. Para itong gawa noong panahon pa ng Spanish era. It's so aesthetic, especially the walls. The hallway was a combination of white and maroon tiles.

“Anong masasabi mo sa university na 'to Kali?” Bentley asked smiling.

“This is great! Maganda,” we continued to walk on the hallway, where the colorful and creative wall painting was showcased.

Students were glaring at me for a reason I didn't know. Maybe because I am a newbie here. Well it's fine, that's always a part of the transferee thing.

“Panu couz? Dito na ako sa first class ko, goodluck on your first day,” Bentley held the doorknob of the classroom. “Kapag may kailangan ka, hanapin mo lang ako.”

I nodded and continued to walk away. I looked for the room of my first class. Sa pagpasok ko, bumungad sa'kin ang mga new classmates ko. They're all looking at me.

I preferred to sit at the back. Sana hindi maingay ang batch na 'to. I'm already in my third year college, taking up Architecture.

“Hi! I'm Coreen, you are?” someone asked beside me. I looked at her and I noticed that she had a Chinese blood because of her features. She's wearing a thick eyeglasses too.

Despite of my poker face, this girl managed to greet me. They said I have a strong facial features. I rarely smile nor talk to anyone. Ayoko ma-attach sa kung sino, and then kapag may naamoy akong kakaiba sa kanila, ako lang ang mahihirapan.

“Kallia,” tipid kong sagot.

“From what university ka galing?” she asked me again. I just looked at her meaningfully with a sharp glared. “Ah— welcome to Montagúe University.”

I leaned on the chair and I opened my crossbody saddle bag. Kinuha ko ang phone ko, para kunyare I'm busy. As much as possible, I don't want to be attached to anyone here.