BURNING RED

Chapter 8

MAKE UP

After my running away from home, I never bought any phone for me. I was so paranoid and conscious. I felt like if I buy one, my mother would get hold of my location and send someone to get me.

So having phone was like a bomb for me. Anytime it would explode.

Yesterday, Bryce was kind enough to walk me home and asked for my number. But since it never crossed my mind to get one, I just told him the truth that I didn't like using phone and I was a bad texter. He expressed his dismay but didn't press it.

So, I've thought about it the whole night and finally, I planned of buying one today. It would be really useful at school. It would be handy.. So I asked Mama to accompany me in the nearest mall and Papa would wait for us at home. I told him to watch a movie or do something else when he got bored but he couldn't touch the garden. That would be my work. I loved to get my hands muddy and dirty.

Now my life was easy and free. I could do anything I want.

No chain, restrictions and cage.

We walked to the gate of our subdivision and asked for tricycle. I also wanted to experience riding in it.

When we got to the mall, I looked around to examine the building.

"This is for sale Joi." Mama said.

Maybe it would be a good investment? There was quite a big crowd. Maybe a little renovation would do to attract more people..

"What do you think Mama?" I asked her. Deep in my thoughts

When she didn't reply I turned to her and found her teary eyes looking at me.

"What happened?" I asked worriedly.

"N-nothing my dear.." she wiped her tears and held my hand.

"Why are you crying then?" I didn't really want to see her sad or cry.

"I'm just happy that finally I can see you smile sincerely. You've been through a lot." Another tears fell down her cheeks.

I hugged her tight. "Mama, thank you for staying with me. For supporting me and helping me all throughout my life. Your presence in my life is constant. And I'm happy to be with you. I love you po."

She started sobbing. I became more worried.

"I love you too my dear Joi." I wiped her tears and kissed her cheeks. I felt contented with our exchange of thoughts.

"Now, let's get your phone so you can call Bryce. I really like that boy for you. You should seduce him or something." Mama said teasingly.

"I'll buy my phone because I might need it at school Mama!" I objected.

"Hmm.."

"That's the truth. I'm going to school now, so it'll be handy for me." I kept on.

"Hmm.."

"I need phone so the school can contact
me if something happened." I blabbered.

"Joi, stop okay. I know. You don't need to repeat yourself for the fifth time."

"But you're not listening!" I stomped my foot on the floor.

"Come on, then maybe on our way home, you can get Bryce number."

"It's not for him!" I insisted.

"Well, you can talk about school stuff. Like what you said." She said while smirking. I rolled my eyes and walked with her inside.