Some Other Girl

“Bibi Yana!”

Ugh. When will he ever stop calling me that?!

I was straightening out one stray strand of hair when a new voice spoke up. “Liana, we’re late.”

Lex. My older brother. By two years. But he acts way older than that.

“Coming.”

And just like that I am now standing in front of the three men closes to my heart. My dad who’s wiping a tear out of his left eye (out of joy, I presume); Lex, my guardian and conscience; and Josh, Lex’s bestfriend since birth and well, my childhood-til-forever crush. Though he’s oblivious and treats me like how Lex does: a baby sister.

Lex and Josh were dressed elegantly in tuxedos and I was forced into this black tube of a dress. It’s prom night and just like any other normal teenager, Lex and Josh were prepared for this night. I, on the other hand…

“Good thing you’re a year advanced, Liana. Or else the boys wouldn’t have seen you like this,” my dad comments, wrapping me in a tight bear hug.

“That’s. The. Point. Dad.” I try to breathe out the words through his life-threatening embrace. “Wish. I. Weren’t. Advanced.”

“Dad, you’ll ruin her make up,” Lex reminds him. Who’s the dad again?

“Right. And you better get going now. Have fun!”

“Let’s go, pretty.” Josh ushers me outside. Wait. Did he just say pretty?

~

“Your dress really suits your complexion, Liana.” Andy, my partner from Lex’s class compliments, for the nth time tonight. I mutter “Yes, thanks” in equal consistency.

My eyes landed on the far side of the room where Josh leads Jen to the dance floor.

I can’t help but remember how infatuated Josh was with Jen way back fifth grade. Every morning he would ask me to accompany him waiting for Jen to arrive just so he could greet her good morning. So much for having a good strategy of getting the girl, right? But I guess that’s just so Josh-y. He doesn’t really do flashy things to impress a girl. He just lets you know he’s there for you.

That was the first time I ever wondered: why did there have to be some other girl who would catch his attention? Why can’t it be mine, and mine alone?

Right. Because I was only the younger sister.

~

“Want juice?” Andy asks from beside me.

“Yes please.” I urge him, before he could comment on my dress and my complexion again.

Then I notice Lex and Andrea dancing behind Josh and Jen. Lex gestures they switch partners. Josh obliged.

Sophomore year (I was a freshman then), Josh was with Andrea and we all thought they were for keeps. They were really good together and they were good for each other too. Everyone noticed that they were better in class, (not that Josh was ever bad at class) and Andrea was even better at writing. That was my most masochistic year since I thirdwheeled in almost all their dates, because Lex had a part time job and my dad was busy with work too so Josh was left to baby sit me which meant I had to ruin every single date they had. Or they ruined every single chance I had with Josh. Works either way. For the second time, there just had to be some other girl.

“There.” Andy got back and placed my juice in front of me. I mutter a “thanks” and find Anna standing by the dance floor, almost eye-talking with Andrea. Andrea saw her and whispered something to Josh over the music. They stopped dancing and Anna approached them, replacing Andrea’s spot dancing with Josh.

What’s up with all the girls of Josh’s past tonight?

Anna was with Josh during their junior year and they broke up only months ago. Three to be exact. They were so good together that I had to admit that even I liked them as a couple. They were both smart and easy on the eyes. They were both good leaders and their influence on the student body was amazing. They really were an inspiration. I was searching my memory of the reason why they broke up when Mrs. Donovan announced “and now for our last dance…”

Great. It’s already the last dance and I’ve only danced once: with Lex. That. Doesn’t. Count! He’s my brother!

If only I hadn’t been Josh’s second option.

Second?

I was never even an option to him!

I was just…just… a friend. A background to all the other girls out there. Someone to listen to his heartaches. Someone to run to when all the other girls walk out on him. Someone when he had no one.

A reserve.

A spare tire.

The baby sister.

“May I have this dance?”

“Oh no, Andy. I’m fine.”

Wait. That’s not Andy.

I turned to find Josh grinning at me. He cocked his head to the side, a questioning look on his eyes.

~

What if she refuses?

She still continues to stare at me with that confused look on her face. Good thing Jen, Andrea and Anna all agreed to do this or else it wouldn’t be as effective.

My heartbeat is almost deafening. She’s still not responding!

“Bibi Yana?”

“I’m no longer a baby!”

She stands up, irritated, almost smacking right into my chin. I back up, wracking my brain about what I said wrong.

“What’s wrong, Yana?”

She sighs, still furious. The song playing in the background was almost over. It was now in its bridge.

“Go find some other girl to dance with.” She brushes past me and I grab her arm on the last second.

“Please tell me what’s wrong?” This wasn’t how this is supposed to be!

Still, she pulls her arm out of my grasp and walks away.

Just then Lex stands in her way.

~

Lex! Why did he have to see all of this?

“Apologize.” His face was emotionless as always, but his voice firm as usual.

No no no. You boys don’t understand!

“Lex,” I say, his name comes out as a beg. I just want this night to be over. I realize the song on the background has repeated. Wait. I thought that was the last song?

He just cocks his head to Josh’s direction behind me and I know I couldn’t refuse my brother. He’s Lex. He’s always right.

Reluctantly, I turn to face Josh, who I’d never seen more hurt than ever.

~

I don’t know what she saw in my face but the moment she turned her expression softened and her eyes had that kind glow in them I’ve always loved.

Now that’s what Jen, Andrea and Anna never understood. They all blamed Liana for hanging out too much with me, for ‘stealing’ me from them. But that wasn’t it. I was never theirs. I have always been Liana’s.

This little girl I’ve spent every waking moment of my childhood with.

She neared me, all irritation gone.

“Hey.”

I smiled.

“Guess that was out of hand.”

This is her way of saying sorry.

I shrug, accepting her sudden tantrum like every other one she’s thrown before.

“So I guess I can now have this dance?”

She smiled. The one I’ve always been fond of.

When we were on the dance floor, she asked, “I thought your last dance was so special to you? Why spend it with me?”

I gave her a duh look and flicked her forehead.

“You answer that question yourself.”

She feigns concentration.

“Because there’s still another song next to this?”

I smile at her, amused.

“No. Because there’s still a full lifetime next to this.”

MVJLO 11.10.14

This

I was planning to write for weeks now, but just couldn’t find the feel. But now I just finished writing one article I needed for work and I guess I just struck while the hands were still hot. Or whatever.

This is really cute. I’m somehow glad I gave justice to the idea (or I’m just claiming it. HAHA) A few failed attempts and frustrated days/weeks later, here it is! :D

 “Here.”

I hand her a life-sized teddy bear that’s too cuddly for its own good.

She continues to stare at me as if she didn’t hear what I just said and didn’t see what I was holding. I blinked awkwardly, still standing there holding that bear in front of her.

I could hear the cars passing by.

And the birds.

And the students walking past us.

And practically, my hearbeat.

And I could feel the demolition of my already imperceptible self-esteem.

And yet she just continues to stare. I change tactics.

“Want some fries?”

She blinked. Now we’re talking.

“Okay.” She stands up, gathers her stuff and walks past me and the bear.

~

You see, this is the thing with Catherine. She’s eccentric. Like very eccentric. She is bubbly, outgoing, responsible, witty and smart. But she just wouldn’t entertain suitors. The reason? I would give anything to know.

“So how was your day?” She munched a handful of fries which, by the way, does NOT, I repeat, DOES NOT make her any less beautiful.

“Good.” I nodded, trying to emphasize how good it was since I was spending it with her. But obviously I wouldn’t say that out loud, or the staring game would start again.

She nodded too, her bright eyes smiling at me. “That’s good. But hey, we need to finish this early since I have stuff to do.”

She really knows how to dampen the mood, doesn’t she? “Sure.” I lied.

She stopped chewing, and gave me a blank look. Crap. She noticed. Like always.

“Logan. You know I can tell when you’re---“

“Lying, I know.” I finished for her.

Smiling at me apologetically, she continued eating. “You know we still have tomorrow.”

I liked the sound of that. Like it’s a promise. That we would always have tomorrow. Though I know that she was just consoling me. We sure have a tomorrow, but not together.

A few cheerful banters and chews later, we were set to go. I dropped her off at her place.

“Check out my blog tonight, okay?” she said before opening the door.

Yes. One of her stories to accompany me tonight. “Yea, sure.” I tried my best to hide my excitement.

~

After announcing my arrival to the people at home, I reviewed my homework and listed out what I should accomplish tonight. I was halfway the list when my phone beeped.

Stephen and Jo.

It was from Catherine. It’s been a private game for us to guess the book from which different characters come from. We would do it at random times of the day, or even at night before going to sleep. See how eccentric she is.

I typed back Invisibility.

A few minutes later, I heard a beep.

A and Rhiannon.

Everyday.

Colin and Lindsey.

An Abundance of Katherines.

Quentin and Margo.

Paper Towns.

Patch and Nora.

Hush Hush.

I could go on with her like this all night long. But one message caught me.

Chicken Soup.

I stared at my phone like crazy. Reluctantly, I typed back What?

After two palpitations, she replied Blog.

I almost forgot! Quickly, I logged on and checked her blog. At first I didn’t really notice there was a new post from her. But I looked closely and there it was, waiting for me to read it.

Before you proceed, when I ask Chicken Soup, you should reply No Thanks. So I’d know if you’ve found this post or not. So here’s what I have to say for tonight.

It’s really amazing how she presents her posts as if she’s just talking to you. It’s not too informal, and not too formal that’s it’s heavy on the eyes too.

10 Signs a guy likes you

      1.       He remembers the small details of your conversations.

My mind wandered back to the time when we were talking just outside the classroom door after dismissal. She was randomly sharing about her disappointment over her classmate’s cancellation on their group project meeting which cost their grade.

“It really annoys me when people don’t keep their promises.”

For a few more minutes, I just let her go on with her rant.

“Sorry, I’m holding you. You go home ahead, I still have stuff to do.” She turned on her heel and was on her way.

I was staring at her retreating figure and then something came to my mind. I hurriedly searched my bag and found the book she lent me. I ran out to her, a slightly scared expression on my face.

“I almost forgot. I promised to give this to you today. Don’t hate me please.”

Amused, she got the book and turned to go.

      2.       He messages you out of the blue

Okay. I admit. I was the one who started the guessing game thru text. But she still enjoyed it! (Too defensive for my self-esteem)

      3.       He makes an effort to get along with your family

“You know you shouldn’t do this.”

I hand her the flowers and continue to pick up the cakes. “But why not? Your twin brothers are cute.” I got ahead of her and opened the door to their house, forgetting that their whole clan was home for the holidays.

“Logan!” I had to say her mom had quick reflex, making it less awkward. Catherine emerged from behind me, diverting the attention of her relatives instead.

      4.       He includes you in his plans

“Where to?”

We just got out of the auditorium after two days of seminar.

She shrugged, obviously tired.

“I’ll drop you off at your place and I’ll catch some sleep myself.”

Nodding, she pinched her nose as she yawned.

“But let’s grab some good books tomorrow, okay?”

She gave me a blank look, still not liking the idea of bookshopping on a Sunday.

  

      5.       He is honest with you

“Where were you? Your mom told me you weren’t at Jason’s the other day.” She looked at me disapprovingly, not even bothering to hide it even the tiniest bit.

“I was at the bookstore.”

This earned a death glare.

“Okay I was eating.”

She raised her eyebrow.

“Fine. I was finding a gift for you on your birthday.”

“Then you could just have told your mom and not have her worry to death.”

Why could she tell when I’m lying?

       6.       He makes time for you and shows it

“Let’s go have ice cream!” She happily nudges me forward.

I grimaced.

“Why?”

“I have practice.”

“Oh.”

“But we could grab that ice cream later, though.”

“How long is practice?” She tilted her head a little to the side, obviously in thought.

“An hour and a half.”

She smiled. “Just the time I need for my essay. See you then!”

I couldn’t thank the ice cream enough.

      7.       He will let you take him shopping

“White or green?”

“They’re both good.” I told her truthfully.

She frowned. “Yea, I think so too.”

      8.       You are the first person he confides in when something happens

I threw the can of soda a little too harder than usual. The can clattered loudly against the bin.

“Hard day?”

So much for promising myself not to tell a single soul about what happened. She’s always at the right time and at the right place.

Turning to face her, I nodded.

“Want to talk about it?”

      9.       He gives you a life sized teddy bear

Wait, what?

      10.   Even if you didn’t receive the teddy bear, he still treats you out for fries

Now that’s creepy. Is this me?

My phone beeped from beside me.

Done?

Confused, I typed back Yes.

Want to know the only sign a girl likes a guy?

My hands were starting to shake uncontrollably. Is this really happening?

What?

A few excruciating minutes passed by. Then the beep sounded like music to my ears.

She lets you read this.

I realized I just had the best night of my life.

MVJLO 07.16.14

Cloudy

Just because I heard "Someday We'll Know" again today, I felt the urge to write ANYTHING. Haha :D

“It’s cloudy…”

“With a chance of meatballs.”

She grinned at me heartily. Oh what I’d give to see that everyday.

“So what’s up with you lately?”

And so I gave her an account of my previous week. We’d been schoolmates for quite some time now, but we just haven’t got the chance to chit chat all these years. Lame, I know. At a distance, she’d give off a stern aura, but up close, she’s bubbly and warm. Not that I notice.

While I was talking, she would give an occasional comment, clarify an idea, chuckle at some points, and my most favorite, those cheeky grins.

“Hey, catch you later Logan.”

And then she’s off her way.

From an outsider, I don’t really appear like I’m affected by her at all. But on the inside, she’s all I ever wanted.

I drag myself to my next class and find myself sitting next to my bestfriend.

“So, did you see her today?”

“Who?”

Jason slapped the back of my head. Hard.

“Okay, okay. Yes.”

“There we go. How was she?”

“Go ask her.”

Before he could hit me again, I held my hands up. “Fine, fine!”

“What’s holding you back? You know you like her. And we both know you’re certain about that.”

I pretend to find something in my notes when the teacher entered the room. Just in time.

“Turn in your homework, please.”

Or not.

Jason smirked. “Someone’s got his head in the clouds,” he jeered, handing in his homework.

~

“Why are you girlfriend-less, again?”

I almost choked on the chocolate I was eating. I decided eating while talking to her is bad for my health, so I opted to place it aside and lie down on my bed, facing her sideways as she was sitting on her bed on the other side of the room. This was one of the advantages of being friendzoned. You get to spend time with her in intimate settings such as this.

“Dunno.”

She gave me a blank look.

“Come on, it’s not so bad being single, right?”

She nodded, but evidently lost in thought.

“I think you’re single because you’re scared of rejection.”

I shrugged.

“But girls are single because although they’re ready for rejection, they can’t make to first move. Ever.”

I looked at her.

She sighed. “You know, we do all the wait. So if the other side gets eaten alive by their fear, our feelings also die along with them.”

Where is she going with this?

She laughed awkwardly. “Okay. Forget what I just said.”

“No. You’re right.” I said before she could say the last word of her sentence. To my dismay, the look on her face said she caught my reaction.

“No, I just mean that we should have the courage. And not just let it down the drain.”

She smiled. Not awkwardly, but warmly.

~

“Earth calling Logan. Earth calling Logan.”

I nudged Jason away, who has his face awkwardly near mine.

“Class is almost over, and you haven’t reached half of the seatwork.”

Absentmindedly, I followed his gaze and true enough, found my paper half-filled.

This is what daydreaming costs you – a part of your day. You go on autopilot and the world goes on without you.

“I’ll do this later.”

As if on cue, the bell rang and I left the room ahead of everyone else.

~

“Hey.”

Catherine looked up from her notes and was obviously shocked I was there. But nonetheless, smiled. “Hey.”

“I was just wondering if you’d have time this weekend? You know. Just for a walk or something.”

She processed my words and recognition flashed across her eyes. She realized I remembered that she likes long walks.

She smiled, “I think I’ll have to check by then if it’s cloudy.”

“With a chance of meatballs,” we said together, mine more like a question, hers a statement.

I was laughing with her, but all I could hear was hers.

MVJLO 06.23.14

OUR DAY

“You know, if I didn’t have a girlfriend, I’m sure we’d end up together.”

Break up with your girlfriend then, you jerk.

“Really?” I responded, eyeing him dismissively.

He shrugged.

Jerk.

I smiled at him and he smiled back. Good thing he can’t get through my mind. The wonders of life.

“So, where we headed?”

I scanned the almost empty restaurant, considering his question. It was a Friday, and ever since college, it was our day. We were mere schoolmates, until one fine day in our college lives, we got seated next to each other in a school organization meeting. I guess since then, we were inseparable.  In a friendly way, that is. The jerk has a girlfriend. And I am forever alone. (A tumblr joke. Ooops)

“Dunno. It’s your turn to decide,” I peered at him and our gazes locked.

He looked away and was immediately lost in thought. Just as I was about to fish out a mirror from my bag, I saw someone approach us in the corner of my eye.

“Hey!”

It was Marc, one of our schoolmates.

“Hi!” Cole returned his enthusiasm equally. Mr. Congeniality alright.

“How you doing, Cole? Alexis?”

He really loves my full name.

“Fine, Marcus,” I smiled sweetly. Cole kicked my foot under the table. I almost grimaced. My eyes shot at him and he grinned at Marc who now had his eyes on him.

“I knew you two would end up together! See how you’re starting a new life in this far off town,” he chirped happily, and gestured our non-existent relationship with his hands. Well, good old awkward Marc.

“No Marc, you got it wrong---” Cole started.

“Yea. We’re still friends,” the words were out of my mouth before I could stop them. “I mean, we’re just friends.”

I didn’t dare take my eyes off of Marc. Cole would only prove the slip true if I looked in his eyes. Me and my big mouth.

To my surprise, Marc’s shoulders sagged. “That’s sad.” With that, he turned and walked away without even saying goodbye.

“Did he just say ‘sad’?”

I shrugged.

~

“Marc, what are we doing here? And why is the whole college packed in this pub too?” I glared at my awkward schoolmate as he fidgeted his phone beside me. It was exactly two weeks since Cole and I saw him at the restaurant.

For some reason, he was able to pool this many people from our college. It was like a homecoming. And I realized most were from our school organization. It took a good thirty minutes to actually greet everyone. We were in a restaurant just by the outskirts of town, which was understandable since most of the people still resided at our hometown which was at least two hours away. Cole and I decided that we would take our chances at this new place just after graduating from college since we were both feeling elated with our newfound freedom.

“It’s a sap-rise,” Marc almost drooled as he said the word, beaming widely.

It took all I had not to grimace at him. He was just so weird. “Okay,” I nodded and turned to find someone to talk to.

Just then, the door to the pub swung open and I saw Cole’s familiar hairstyle over the people crowded by the door.

“Hey!” I saw Marc shove his way toward Cole. Only then did I realize that Cole wasn’t alone.

He was towing his girlfriend behind him.

Marc greeted the couple and I scurried away deeper into the crowd. It was just so awkward when they were together. For me, at least. As far as I’ve noticed, they’re not the least bit uncomfortable when I’m around.

Especially Cole. The jerk.

I found a friend in the crowd and I pretended to have genuine interest in him. He had no idea that I was just doing small talk since he kinda enjoyed talking about his business which was a funeral house, by the way. I shuddered inwardly, silently hoping that he would change the topic.

“There you are, Alexis!”

Oh great.

Reluctantly, I slowly turned to face Marc. “Hey,” I greeted, discomfited.

At least I didn’t have to deal with all the funeral thingy, right? Yea. Think of it that way, Alex. Better deal with Cole and Claudia. Wait. I’d go with the funeral thingy instead.

“ALEX!” Cole almost hugged the life out of me.

“Hi,” I muttered, obviously out of air.

“Hi Alex,” Claudia greeted as Cole pulled away. I smiled and rubbed my chest before returning her hi.

“Since we’re all here, we could get things going,” Marc said to us three. For the first time, I was thankful for his presence. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to say anything to the couple.

He led us to a table. “Be seated.” His tone suggested that he was about to go someplace else. What did I say about being thankful for his presence again? I totally take that back.

When we took our seats, he hurried away from us. Gees. Thanks for leaving me here, Marc.

I didn’t dare look at the couple. Claudia was a nice girl, but I just couldn’t disregard the times when I noticed her frowns whenever Cole and I would interact. I mean, I couldn’t exactly blame her since she did have something to look out after all.

“Excuse me,” Marc was at the small stage in front now.

I shifted in my seat partly so I could look at him and mostly to turn my back on the couple.

“I would like to thank you all for coming to my party tonight.”

“I thought this was a homecoming? Look at the lot. Only the teachers aren’t here,” I heard Cole joke to Claudia. Despite the noisy environment, I held out an ear to listen to any reaction she might have to Cole’s joke. But there was none. See that. What kind of girlfriend would do that? At least you could chuckle, right? Okay, I’m ranting.

“I wanted you all to know about the important announcement I have to make.”

I raised my eyebrows. What announcement would that be? He’s opening a business? Getting a new car? Getting promoted? Getting a new dog?

I smirked at the last thought and at the corner of my eye, I saw Cole smile at my reaction.

“I’m getting…”

I grinned evilly.

“A new dog,” I heard Cole supply and I turned just in time that he erupted in laughter. I cupped my mouth to muffle the sound of mine. My peripheral vision reported a serious-looking Claudia.

“Married.”

At the sound of his voice, Cole and I stopped laughing at once. Was he serious?

“Cole...”

My head turned immediately toward Claudia.

“What?” Cole asked her.

“Who’s the lucky girl?” I head someone from the crowd call out to Marc.

“To my future bride, please stand up.”

There was complete silence in the pub as the people anticipated any movement. Then after a few seconds, Claudia stood up.

“Cloud? What’s happening?” Cole asked his girlfriend.

“I’m sorry. I tried to tell you but I chicken out every time.”

I looked intently at Cole. At the back of my mind, I somehow wished that they would break up but not like this. He doesn’t deserve to be dumped. Especially over someone like Marc.

His expression was sad. But it didn’t stay like that for long. I glanced at Claudia and realized that she smiled at his reaction too.

“I don’t deserve you, Cole. We both know that someone else does,” and with a gentle look in her eyes I’ve never seen before, she looked at me.

I returned her look with a quizzical one.

“I’ve always felt that he’s never been mine, Lex. You own him. Right from the start.”

I couldn’t form a word. Was this really happening?

“C’mere Cloud,” Marc said on the microphone and with one last smile at Cole, she left our table and trudged toward the stage.

And with the whole crowd watching attentively, Marc bent his knee and asked the magical question every girl longs to hear.

~

“Where to?”

Cole asked as he took a bite of the burger I held up for him.

“Dunno. You take the pick.”

“Hmm. I’m up for a movie.”

“Just as I was hoping you’d say,” I smiled.

Then we both looked at each other at the exact same second. “At home,” we said simultaneously.

He ruffled my hair and wrapped his arm around my shoulder as we started toward his car. It was Monday. And since Marc’s announcement, every day was our day.

MVJLO 01.27.12

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ha! I just enjoyed writing this one. So random. Haha :D Well, maybe this is what I get after watching a good movie. *ehemleapyearehem* 

Make It Through

“If you don’t do this tomorrow, believe me, you’ll never be able to do it.”

Allie stared at her aunt with pleading eyes. “But…”

She heard her sigh, and felt her mother nudge closer to her on her side. “It’s Mom’s birthday on Monday,” Allie almost whispered, lowering her gaze.

When her aunt didn’t respond, she looked up to meet her eyes. “If we postpone this to a later date, you won’t be able to do it at all. You’ll just hide behind excuses.”

“But I promise I’ll do it on Tuesday,” I bargained.

“On a weekday? I doubt you’ll be able to move your things then.”

Allie thought of her aunt as solid rock. She wouldn’t even listen. Didn’t she understand that it was the first time Allie would be away from her Mom on her birthday? It was hard on her, if she hadn’t notice it yet.

“Your Aunt’s right, Allie.”

With the quiet voice of her Mom lingering in her ears, Allie conceded to her Aunt’s idea.

~

“All set?”

Allie nodded without turning around to face her Mom. It was Sunday, the agreed date for her to move in her Aunt’s house. Allie’s family has been experiencing financial difficulties and her Mom was pushed to the limit, causing her to temporarily let Allie live with her Aunt who is way more capable to provide her needs.

Allie was fighting back her tears all the time they’ve been packing her things. She could tell that her Mom too was feeling the same. After all, it’s the first time they’ve been ever apart. What’s making it more difficult was the fact that they both don’t know when she’ll be coming back. 

“Hang your underwear in a more private place okay? You won’t want your uncle to be greeted by your undies once he gets home,” she chuckled an awkward laugh and still, Allie didn’t face her. Every word she says seemed to provokes the tears.

They loaded her things to the public vehicle they rented. On the way, Allie tried to have small talk, just to get her mind off the present situation. They finally arrived and were greeted by her Aunt and two of their maids.

“Get her things and arrange them in her bedroom,” Allie’s aunt ordered the maids. They obliged.

Allie, her Mom and her Aunt settled in the living room. After a few minutes, Allie’s Mom initiated the inevitable.

“I have to go,” she said, standing up. Allie wanted to throw her arms around her and beg her to bring her along, but she knew better. Her Aunt was never a fan of drama.

Allie and her Aunt both stood up and walked her Mom to the door. With a heavy heart, Allie hugged her Mom one more time and whispered, “Happy Birthday.”

Her Mom squeezed her before letting go and walking away.

Good thing Allie and her Mom had dinner before they left, so she excused herself and went to her bedroom after the reluctant goodbye. She tried to busy herself with the project that was due the day after tomorrow but her mind couldn’t help but think that in a few hours, her Mom would be celebrating her birthday without her.

~

Allie tossed and turned in her bed but sleep was elusive. She didn’t dare turn off the lights because her Aunt’s niece (her husband’s niece, to be exact) was arriving any minute from work.

As if on cue, the door opened and she raised her head a little to see her almost-cousin. She was five years older than her, and was working at her Aunt’s business. Her duty was until closing time.

Allie smiled sweetly at her, suddenly growing conscious. It was her bedroom after all. Allie felt like an intruder.

Her cousin just looked at her and managed to mumble “Oh” as a greeting. Well. It was awkward to find someone in your bedroom. But she was briefed right? Allie sighed. At least she had a separate bed.

Allie watched her disappear into the bathroom and checked her watch. It was 12:30am. Happy birthday Mom. All her self control for the past three hours disappeared and Allie gave in to the tears that have been pushed back since that afternoon.

~

Sleep didn’t stay for long for Allie that she woke up every hour or so. She readied for school at 5:20am, which was much earlier than she used to. The room had a bathroom, so she didn’t have a problem with personal necessities. Usually, it took her at least thirty minutes to bathe but today, she was finished after fifteen minutes. When she stepped out of the bathroom, she found her cousin still fast asleep which was good since she didn’t want her peeking while she dressed.

After a few minutes, she got out and was met by the maids.

“Good morning Allie. Do you really get up this early?”

Allie took the seat nearest her and nodded. “Yea.”

“You’re really early for school,” the other said as she placed the food in front of her.

Consuming the food was a bit hard for Allie since no one joined her for breakfast.

She returned to her room to brush her teeth. Taking a few steps inside, she scanned her cousin’s bed and found that she was shaking sleep. Allie smiled at her sweetly, trying the befriend her.

“Close the door,” was all she said and went back to sleep again. Allie realized she wasn’t able to close the door properly.

Doing her last minute preparations, she went outside to wait for her Aunt to get up. It was the first time that she’d ask for allowance. To be honest, she didn’t have any idea how to do it.

Her silent dilemma was answered when the door to her Aunt’s bedroom opened and the first word she heard from her was, “Allie?”

One of the maids answered, “She’s in the living room, Ma’am.”

Allie straightened herself up and waited for her Aunt. As always, she’s looked stressed and tired. But that was normal for her. She wouldn’t be this successful if she was just sleeping all day.

“We’re going to work now. We’ll drop you off.”

Allie and her Aunt waited outside for her uncle. After a few minutes, he emerged from the front door and he entered the car. Allie and her aunt followed suit. In the back of Allie’s mind, she admitted that this was the life she wanted ever since before. Maids serving her, and a drive to school every day. Anyone looking at her now would conclude that she must’ve been the luckiest girl in the planet. Maybe she was luckiest, but not the happiest though.

“Here’s your allowance,” her aunt handed her a bunch of bills. “We’ll teach you how to manage your money and that’s the first batch you should handle.”

Allie accepted the money and stuffed it in her pocket. Without counting it, she knew that it was enough for two weeks.

She was dropped off at school and her classes seemed to pass by in a blur. By lunch time, she texted her Mom to meet her up and she did. Allie was just so excited to see the birthday girl.

~

Days passed by and Allie still wasn’t happy. She had the life she wanted: nothing to worry about, just her studies. Finances were stable, food was always on her plate, and she was free from household chores. But she couldn’t find the enthusiasm to enjoy all of these when she knows that her Mom is still within the city, taking on life’s difficulties alone. Not totally alone though. They still see each other every lunch time since her Mom meets her up at school but the time still wasn’t enough. Her mom was her best friend, her confidant, her critic. She just couldn’t afford not talking to her and not being with her every night before going to sleep. What was worse was that she was now leaving her in these difficult times of life. Allie felt a terrible mixture of homesickness and guilt.

~

The week ended and Friday rolled around. Allie’s Mom spent dinner with her at a nearby restaurant. After the meal, Allie was dropped by her Mom at her Aunt’s house. They both waited for her Aunt to arrive since Allie had to propose something. When she arrived, both Allie and her Mom greeted her

“Uhm, Auntie, I have something to tell you,” Allie began, nervous.

She looked at her and sat at the dinner table about to eat. “What is it, Allie? Why don’t you both join me for dinner first?”

“Oh no, we just had dinner. Uh, I was just about to ask if it’s okay if I spend the night at Mom’s? I mean, I’ll be back here first thing in the---“

“You know Allie, I’m not forcing you to stay here,” her Aunt was placing food on her plate.

Allie didn’t know what to say next.

“All you have to do is to say it. You don’t have to torture yourself.”

Allie blinked, finding the courage to say what she’d been dying to say. “I want to go home, Auntie.”

“Sure. I won’t hold you back. Just make sure that you’re making the right decision. Opportunity knocks only once Allie, and always remember that.”

Allie nodded, happiness and relief filling up inside her.

“Go fix your things and head home.”

It took Allie and her Mom almost two days to get her stuff packed but that night, Allie was able to do all that alone, in less than fifteen minutes.

~

“HOME SWEET HOME,” Allie greeted their house upon opening the front door.

“Welcome home, Allie,” her Mom greeted her as she followed her inside, with her bags in hand.

Allie nodded, taking in the familiar feel of their home. “You know Mom, I don’t care if we don’t have food on our plate or if I don’t have allowance for school the next day; just as long as we’re together, I know we’ll make it through.”

MVJLO 01.23.12

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

My first one-shot story for the year ;D

Trivia: this one’s based on a true story. 

Make It Through

Sorry for all the typos! :3

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“If you don’t do this tomorrow, believe me, you’ll never be able to do it.”

Allie stared at her aunt with pleading eyes. “But…”

She heard her sigh, and felt her mother nudge closer to her on her side. “It’s Mom’s birthday on Monday,” Allie almost whispered, lowering her gaze.

When her aunt didn’t respond, she looked up to meet her eyes. “If we postpone this to a later date, you won’t be able to do it at all. You’ll just hide behind excuses.”

“But I promise I’ll do it on Tuesday,” she bargained.

“On a weekday? I doubt you’ll be able to move your things then.”

Allie thought of her aunt as solid rock. She wouldn’t even listen. Didn’t she understand that it was the first time Allie would be away from her Mom on her birthday? It was hard on her, if she hadn’t notice it yet.

“Your Aunt’s right, Allie.”

With the quiet voice of her Mom lingering in her ears, Allie conceded to her Aunt’s idea.

~

“All set?”

Allie nodded without turning around to face her Mom. It was Sunday, the agreed date for her to move in her Aunt’s house. Allie’s family has been experiencing financial difficulties and her Mom was pushed to the limit, causing her to temporarily let Allie live with her Aunt who is way more capable to provide her needs.

Allie was fighting back her tears all the time they’ve been packing her things. She could tell that her Mom too was feeling the same. After all, it’s the first time they’ve been ever apart. What’s making it more difficult was the fact that they both don’t know when she’ll be coming back. 

“Hang your underwear in a more private place okay? You won’t want your uncle to be greeted by your undies once he gets home,” she chuckled an awkward laugh and still, Allie didn’t face her. Every word she says seemed to provoke the tears.

They loaded her things to the public vehicle they rented. On the way, Allie tried to have small talk, just to get her mind off the present situation. They finally arrived and were greeted by her Aunt and two of their maids.

“Get her things and arrange them in her bedroom,” Allie’s aunt ordered the maids. They obliged.

Allie, her Mom and her Aunt settled in the living room. After a few minutes, Allie’s Mom initiated the inevitable.

“I have to go,” she said, standing up. Allie wanted to throw her arms around her and beg her to bring her along, but she knew better. Her Aunt was never a fan of drama.

Allie and her Aunt both stood up and walked her Mom to the door. With a heavy heart, Allie hugged her Mom one more time and whispered, “Happy Birthday.”

Her Mom squeezed her before letting go and walking away.

Good thing Allie and her Mom had dinner before they left, so she excused herself and went to her bedroom after the reluctant goodbye. She tried to busy herself with the project that was due the day after tomorrow but her mind couldn’t help but think that in a few hours, her Mom would be celebrating her birthday without her.

~

Allie tossed and turned in her bed but sleep was elusive. She didn’t dare turn off the lights because her Aunt’s niece (her husband’s niece, to be exact) was arriving any minute from work.

As if on cue, the door opened and she raised her head a little to see her almost-cousin. She was five years older than her, and was working at her Aunt’s business. Her duty was until closing time.

Allie smiled sweetly at her, suddenly growing conscious. It was her bedroom after all. Allie felt like an intruder.

Her cousin just looked at her and managed to mumble “Oh” as a greeting. Well. It was awkward to find someone in your bedroom. But she was briefed right? Allie sighed. At least she had a separate bed.

Allie watched her disappear into the bathroom and checked her watch. It was 12:30am. Happy birthday Mom. All her self control for the past three hours disappeared and Allie gave in to the tears that have been pushed back since that afternoon.

~

Sleep didn’t stay for long for Allie that she woke up every hour or so. She readied for school at 5:20am, which was much earlier than she used to. The room had a bathroom, so she didn’t have a problem with personal necessities. Usually, it took her at least thirty minutes to bathe but today, she was finished after fifteen minutes. When she stepped out of the bathroom, she found her cousin still fast asleep which was good since she didn’t want her peeking while she dressed.

After a few minutes, she got out and was met by the maids.

“Good morning Allie. Do you really get up this early?”

Allie took the seat nearest her and nodded. “Yea.”

“You’re really early for school,” the other said as she placed the food in front of her.

Consuming the food was a bit hard for Allie since no one joined her for breakfast.

She returned to her room to brush her teeth. Taking a few steps inside, she scanned her cousin’s bed and found that she was shaking sleep. Allie smiled at her sweetly, trying to befriend her.

“Close the door,” was all she said and went back to sleep again. Allie realized she wasn’t able to close the door properly.

Doing her last minute preparations, she went outside to wait for her Aunt to get up. It was the first time that she’d ask for allowance. To be honest, she didn’t have any idea how to do it.

Her silent dilemma was answered when the door to her Aunt’s bedroom opened and the first word she heard from her was, “Allie?”

One of the maids answered, “She’s in the living room, Ma’am.”

Allie straightened herself up and waited for her Aunt. As always, she’s looked stressed and tired. But that was normal for her. She wouldn’t be this successful if she was just sleeping all day.

“We’re going to work now. We’ll drop you off.”

Allie and her Aunt waited outside for her uncle. After a few minutes, he emerged from the front door and he entered the car. Allie and her aunt followed suit. In the back of Allie’s mind, she admitted that this was the life she wanted ever since before. Maids serving her, and a drive to school every day. Anyone looking at her now would conclude that she must’ve been the luckiest girl in the planet. Maybe she was luckiest, but not the happiest though.

“Here’s your allowance,” her aunt handed her a bunch of bills. “We’ll teach you how to manage your money and that’s the first batch you should handle.”

Allie accepted the money and stuffed it in her pocket. Without counting it, she knew that it was enough for two weeks.

She was dropped off at school and her classes seemed to pass by in a blur. By lunch time, she texted her Mom to meet her up and she did. Allie was just so excited to see the birthday girl.

~

Days passed by and Allie still wasn’t happy. She had the life she wanted: nothing to worry about, just her studies. Finances were stable, food was always on her plate, and she was free from household chores. But she couldn’t find the enthusiasm to enjoy all of these when she knows that her Mom is still within the city, taking on life’s difficulties alone. Not totally alone though. They still see each other every lunch time since her Mom meets her up at school but the time still wasn’t enough. Her mom was her best friend, her confidant, her critic. She just couldn’t afford not talking to her and not being with her every night before going to sleep. What was worse was that she was now leaving her in these difficult times of life. Allie felt a terrible mixture of homesickness and guilt.

~

The week ended and Friday rolled around. Allie’s Mom spent dinner with her at a nearby restaurant. After the meal, Allie was dropped by her Mom at her Aunt’s house. They both waited for her Aunt to arrive since Allie had to propose something. When she arrived, both Allie and her Mom greeted her.

“Uhm, Auntie, I have something to tell you,” Allie began, nervous.

She looked at her and sat at the dinner table about to eat. “What is it, Allie? Why don’t you both join me for dinner first?”

“Oh no, we just had dinner. Uh, I was just about to ask if it’s okay if I spend the night at Mom’s? I mean, I’ll be back here first thing in the---“

“You know Allie, I’m not forcing you to stay here,” her Aunt was placing food on her plate.

Allie didn’t know what to say next.

“All you have to do is to say it. You don’t have to torture yourself.”

Allie blinked, finding the courage to say what she’d been dying to say. “I want to go home, Auntie.”

“Sure. I won’t hold you back. Just make sure that you’re making the right decision. Opportunity knocks only once Allie, and always remember that.”

Allie nodded, happiness and relief filling up inside her.

“Go fix your things and head home.”

It took Allie and her Mom almost two days to get her stuff packed but that night, Allie was able to do all that alone, in less than fifteen minutes.

~

“HOME SWEET HOME,” Allie greeted their house upon opening the front door.

“Welcome home, Allie,” her Mom greeted her as she followed her inside, with her bags in hand.

Allie nodded, taking in the familiar feel of their home. “You know Mom, I don’t care if we don’t have food on our plate or if I don’t have allowance for school the next day; just as long as we’re together, I know we’ll make it through.”

MVJLO 01.23.12

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

My first one-shot story for the year ;D

Trivia: this one’s based on a true story.