A/N: This will be a super long one to make up for Christmas and New Year. Sorry so much for the long wait.
It's funny, most people can be around someone and then gradually begin to love them and never know exactly when it happened.
-Anonymous.
Winter.
Everything seems so blurry. Nothing makes out, it's just so fuzzy.
There is gray, white and soft blue hues blurring my view.
I can feel my body go a bit numb. It's slightly chilly; the clothes I have on are quiet minimal. I'm shivering if I'm even aware that I am.
And lastly, I feel lighter than a feather right now.
In fact, I can't even feel anything against my toes at all!
Slowly opening my eyes, the first thing that I see is the moon. It's so big, bright and beautiful. The blanket of darkness shrouding over the horizon, bright twinkles of countless stars, and clouds that looks as if they are as fluffy as they seem floating by.
Then I finally realize that I'm flying in mid-air.
I'm wearing some sort of dress that's made of fine silk and ribbons assorted in green, yellow and white, with flowers and leaves for an accent. The dress just stops an inch above my knees, exposing my fair complexion. There are tattoo-like markings accentuating on each side of my leg, and some on my arms as well; the markings of floral and ferns-like design forming a brace on my one arm, a bracelet-like design on the lower part and from my vantage point, I can see that there's a marking below my right eye. I can't tell what kind of design it is, but I presume that it contradicts with anything about nature.
Wind is coursing through my hair; I feel the chilliness of the air tickling my scalp. I almost forgot how barely clothed I am through this cold night.
My long hair - which stretches all the way to the backs of my knees - flies behind me waywardly behind me, there's something heavy keeping a few strands of hair away from my face. I assume that it's some sort of headband.
Curiously, I stretch out my tattooed arm to touch the fluffy clouds that pass by me. Running my thin fingers through them, it sticks to my hand like cotton candy, but soon fades away. A soft giggle erupts from within me.
Someone else's laughter joins mine, and he sounds like he's right beside me.
As I turn to him, I am unaware of the smile I have on my face.
A boy of my age is grinning goofily beside me, all clad in a blue sweat shirt that's slightly frosted to the top, tight brown slacks that's torn from the ends.
But what takes me back is his all too familiar scruffy snowy white hair, those alluring glacier eyes, and his cool pale skin. On his free hand, he's holding a gnarled staff, intricately frosted and very durable; his other hand seems occupied as it spreads towards my direction.
I then realize why my left arm is spread, and my hand seems to be gripping tightly unto something cold, calloused, and familiar…
His hand.
We're holding hands as we're flying in the air.
My smile stretching over my face never ceases to waver; it's so jubilant and alive. Carefree and docile even. As my mouth parts lightly, a hearty burst of laughter erupts.
The snowy haired boy's grin widens, glacier eyes watching me in wonder as his own laughter breaks from his lips. Oh my, those eyes are hypnotizing. I can almost see myself through those beautiful eyes.
His fingers grip my hand tighter, never wavering, never planning to let me go.
Side by side we soar into this evening sky to somewhere only we know.
Slowly poking my eyes open, I find that it is five minutes before my alarm. I groan loudly while I lazily pick myself up from the warmth and comforts of my blankets and as I rub the sleep away from my eyes.
"What a weird dream…" I mutter to myself, scratching my bedridden hair.
I get the feeling that today's supposed to be something I should be remembering, a day I should be aware about, or a day of which I don't really remember.
Which is which?
…
…
…
Twists head to alarm clock, reads the date. November 30.
Does that ring a bell?
…
Nada.
Groan.
I hastily get out of bed, make my bed and start stretching my limbs. The cracks and pops reminds me that I should not overwork myself more than I feel like it, as VP Sandy once reprimanded me about a few consultations back.
Grabbing a towel from my chair, I head off to go wash up. I bump into a large figure and mutter an apology, not knowing who it is in my early morning state.
"Lia, you're up early." My breathe hitches, this voice.
Instantly, I'm awake and quickly meet my Dad, he's just finished freshening up and in his work clothes. Those identical twin hazel eyes stare down at mine warmly.
"P-Pa, g-good morning po. Ah," He pats my head before I can even explain why I'm up so early.
"And good morning to you too Lia." his voice is warm and longing. It's nice. "I don't think you should worry about school today Lia…" I look up. "Huh, why?"
He points outside the window, and when I turn, I had almost forgotten the difference of Burgess and Cagayan de Oro. Outside our window, white powders start to sprinkle delicately against our window as well as blankets of white powdery snow.
"It's snowing..." I whisper.
No, someone just sprinkled flour. My subconscious says sarcastically.
"That's right." Dad nods, "And that means, snow day. No school for today sweetheart, but that isn't an excuse for me either." my heart drops, of course. He's always off to work.
"Mom?" I feebly ask Dad points to the ground, specifically the kitchen. "Making breakfast, she too has work." I groan inwardly so I don't let it show.
Of course, it's always like this. They never have time for me.
Patting me one last time, I almost ran into the bathroom and locked the door behind me. I am not going to be upset about this, I mean, I'm already used to this. I don't really blame them.
Sitting myself on the cold tiled floor, I wrap my arms on my folded knees as I turn to watch the snow from the window.
Today's the day that the very first snow that drops by Burgess.
My very first winter.
My first snow day.
Changing into my fresh winter clothes, I can't help fight the bitter feelings I have towards my parents. We barely had time for each other when they were abroad, and we barely have time for each other now. So what's the point of me being here if all they do is ignore me? And December is next month, which means...that.
I punch my wall as that painful day strikes me hard, my tears start to well up in my eyes. No, no, no, no, no, do not go back there Lia Ellen! Don't you dare go back there-
A sudden knock disrupts my thoughts.
I take back my hand from the wall and thank the heavens that it wasn't bleeding. Turning on my heel, I plastered a small smile as I walk towards my door and when I open it, I'm surprised to see a grinning Jack and his little minions - Emma, Sophie, Jamie and Bobby. My expression is anything but surprised, my hand still grips the door handle.
"Hiya Lia!" they chorus. Bobs head in return, fixes expression on face and stare flabbergasted. "W-What are you all doing here?"
"Well," Jack starts, but Emma beats him to it. She's dressed up in a white long sleeved sweater, red jumper, black leggings and pink boots and is wearing a matching scarf. "We remembered when you said you've never seen snow before and decided to come here and-" Jack covers her mouth so he can say his part that Emma took. "Thought that you can spend the joy and wonder of Snow day! YAY! With me!"
"And me!" Emma mumbles.
"And me!" Jamie adds. He's wearing a navy sweater with red plaid undershirt, blue jeans, sneakers, and wearing a warm scarf.
"And me!" Bobby bounces up and down excitedly. He's wearing a long sleeved sweater, green plaid jacket, baggy jeans, sneakers and a floppy hat.
"Me! Me! Me!" Little Sophie finishes, she's dressed in a purple dress, black leggings and scarf, she walks up to me and hugs my leg. "Lia, Lia, snow day, snow day!"
I giggle at her energy and scoop her up in my arms. I look at the four expectant guests at my door who don't take their eyes off me, plus Sophie's bid expectant green eyes…Oh, right. They're waiting for me. I scoff good-naturedly.
"Fine, let's all go out and play." and everyone's happy and cheering and rushing outside. I put Sophie down to join them as I turn to Jack who's been waiting for the kids to head off first.
"This is your first snow day, excited?" Jack asks kindly, I shyly nod. "I'm kinda looking forward to it..." I admit as I put on my beanie.
I'm wearing a thick black bracelet-sleeve jacket, blue and white striped long sleeved sweater, dark jeans, and the same boots I wore when I and Jack went out last fall. Jack is all clad up in his bomber jacket, jeans, cream scarf and combat boots. He's staring down on me with such dark amber eyes, and I can't help but stare at the depth of it. I'm wondering how he sees the world in those eyes, how he always puts a smile on everyone's faces with his crazy yet fun antics.
"Ate Lia, Jack, hurry up!" Bobby yells from the door, breaking us from our reverie. The both of us are awkwardly moving about, I move left, he moves left, I move right, he moves right. I can't help but laugh at our little game of patintero. Being the sudden gentleman, he allows me to move first before he follows shortly.
We randomly talk about something to forget the awkwardness a little while back. It worked actually.
The moment we got out, Jack and I were taken by surprise by the youngsters as they engaged their snowballs at us.
"We're being under attack!" he says jokingly, I can't help the grin form into my face. I try to play along, as we're left defenceless and try to make a run for it as more and more snowballs were thrown our way.
Taking cover behind Tito Lito's car, he joins my laughter and warns me that he is the master of ultimate snowball fights. He teaches me how to make a snowball and aim for my target, which wasn't really hard. I was able to hit Jamie and Bobby at once much to our amusement.
"Hey!"
"You'll pay for that!"
Once I got the hang of it, a full snowball fight ensued; 2 teens against 4 kids.
"Attack!" Jack said throwing as many of the snowballs we've made to the kids. The kids were yelling as if they were warriors as they threw more snowballs, Sophie had a poor aim but still kept throwing. 5 minutes into battle, and the teens won. I had never felt so relieved, tired yet happy at the same time.
My back fell to the cold, powdery snow as I catch my breath in puffs. My arms and legs felt so heavy like lead, and my whole body is sweating from too much fun.
"Having fun Li?" Jack asks beside me, he too is catching his breath.
Instead of answering him, another fit of laughter broke out from my mouth. It's infectious that it causes him to laugh as well, so does the kids. I spread out my arms and welcome the pure white snow to fall on me.
"Snow angel, snow angel!" something collides next to me, making the snow puff. As I look down, Sophie is mimicking me, but moving her arms and legs to form a snow angel. Though my body is heavy and tired, I follow Sophie to make my own snow angel.
Sophie stands up and observes her snow angel. I want to look at it, but find it impossible as I'm looking sideways. I struggle to stand up, but my body is limp and betraying me.
"Need a hand?" Jack offers with a smile.
Seriously, that smile is infectious! I take it anyway and turn dust off the snow off me before I turn to our snow angels. A large one and a small one side by side, it's so cute. Sophie walks between our angels and draws a little heart.
"Lia love Sophie, Sophie love Lia!" she explains to me. I can't help the grin on my face to widen, my face flushes a bit.
I squeezed unto Jack's hand tighter at the explanation the same time as my heart constricts. I haven't even realized that I was still holding Jack's hand! But even so, he squeezes my hand back and rubs his thumb comfortingly through my knuckles.
"Sophie must really love you Lia..." he says. I nod in understanding, letting go of his hand to peck Sophie's forehead. "I love everyone." Sophie giggles at my remark and chokes me into a hug, I love hugs.
After a few moments of awkward and mushy moment, the kids suggest that we make a snowman. The child in me is overjoyed; I've always wanted to make a snow man.
So as we're making a big snow man, Jack begins to tell me about Bobby's crush over his baby sister, Emma. The two, plus Jamie, are making their own snow man, leaving us plus little Sophie with ours... I wonder if it's safe to be having this discussion with her around. Sophie may be an innocent four-year old girl, but we never know if she might spill any beans…yet.
"How do you even know he had a crush on Emma?" I ask, observing Bobby and Jamie from my spot.
He hums deep in his throat, "I don't remember actually...Probably when you came? I'm not so sure."
I shake my head in wonder "Why are we even having this conversation?" putting more snow fat into our snow man and shaping his round tummy with equally questionable hazel eyes as I ask.
Jack stood stiffly from where he stood where he shaped our snow man. But from the corner of my eye, I swore he had kept a careful eye towards the youngsters.
"Li, I'm a concerned brother. Of course I have to know about these kinds of things." he said in a matter-factually, I felt a big grin spread across my face. My heart swells at his honesty and brings me back, way back.
"Please," I roll my eyes at him "give him a break. In fact, give them a break, they're still kids! Bobby's a good kid, you know that. Let them just have fun while they're still young." Kneeling down, I pick up a few pebbles and hand them Sophie. She picks them off my hands and creates snowman's buttons.
Jack's face somewhat softens at what I had said, a knowing grin crept upon his face as he watches Emma.
"Yeah, I guess you're right."
"Yes I am." I say with a smug, taking my beanie off so snow man can wear it. He is half-way from done.
"But I'm a big brother, and I can't help but be overprotective towards my baby sister. That's what big brothers do..." as he trails off, he suddenly comes up with what seems to be a light bulb moment. "Were your brothers like that?"
Automatically, I recoil and stop whatever I am doing for a nanosecond, looking at him square in the eye with a look of obvious shock. Part of me wants to let the question pass with another topic, and another part of me just wants me to remain silent and let the question die. Those don't make sense actually, but the question really takes me by surprise.
Instead, I try and recall my two brothers ever in Jack's shoes. Huh, come to think about it, it's been a while since I gave a thought about it actually.
"Hmm, I think Kuya Jag was more concerned in me doing well in my studies, while Kuya Kenny was focused more on my swimming and guitar and such. But," without knowing, a feeble smile crosses my face as the memories sink in. "yeah, you could say that. They were a bit of a little too much when it came to my well-being. Kuya Jag and Kuya Kenny would take turns chauffeuring me to and from school, they'd never let me go home beyond curfew. They always ensured that I was safe and sound. And when I had a suitor," I stopped at the memory before I chuckled "well, let's just say that things did not end well as I thought it would be."
"Y-You had a suitor?" he says almost immediately, his dark amber eyes widen and filled with...worry?
"Yeah, I had." I manage to say it like it was as easy as A-B-C's. "He was my childhood friend, fortunately. But that was long ago! I think I about was 13 or 14?"
"What was his name?"
I gave him a strange look, surely he's not…Nah, he's my best friend! He's just probably concerned or being his usual curious self. But is he…? Nah. Damn mind, stop coming up with things! Jack should know at least, it's only fair.
"Gael. Gael Vargas." The moment I said his name, Jack seemed reluctant to keep the subject going. His amber eyes unusually showed some conflict going on. But eventually, he slowly calmed down when he gets that the subject was best left alone. That was ages ago.
Our snow man is halfway done; he's just missing arms and a face. I walk over to a nearby thin tree and took its longest branch, instantly breaking it in half with my bare hands. When I returned, Jack had just brought Sophie down after letting her decorate our snow man's face - a stony expression of a smile, cute. I stick the branches to the sides and watch Mr. Snowman proudly with Jack and Sophie.
"A fine looking snow man we made good job guys!"
Its funny watching the two snow man we made, they look like soldiers bravely guarding our humble home - one on each side at the entrance, standing proud and tall. I wonder what people are going to say about that? The thought makes me want to laugh.
Sometime after, Lola Carrie calls us inside for a cup of hot choco and a taste of Tita Helen's cookies. Inside, we warm ourselves by the fireplace with cups of hot choco and tiny marshmallows, chatting, laughter and jolly good fun. It's almost like Jack's very description itself.
For a slight moment, I manage to sneak at the standing snowmen outside our front house. They kind of reminded me of my brothers - Kuya Jag and Kuya Kenny.
But for a moment, they almost remind me of my parents as well - despite the cold frost biting weather, they still manage a smile on their faces and stand tall.
A few days later...
"Paging Miss Lia Ellen Dela Rosa, please proceed to the principal's office night now. Repeat, Miss Lia Ellen Dela Rosa, please proceed to the principal's office. Your presence is badly needed. Thank you."
I jumped from my desk as the pager mentions my name, all eyes are on me a midst Mr. Onceler's discussion on tax evasion. I turn my hazel eyes in horror, slowly feeling an annoying twitch nagging me. The young dark-haired teacher, dressed in a button-up shirt, suspenders and pale blue striped pants, a vest and matching bowl cap that is Mr. Onceler had to clear his throat to catch my attention.
"Lia, you may proceed." he tells me, I barely said anything in return as I simply nod and fumbled for my things and quickly walked out the room.
I hastily made my way to the principal's office wondering why in the name of all that is holy Principal North would suddenly call me and in the middle of Mr. Onceler's discussion to boot! That's going to be part of the exams! And I barely showed interest in Economics, but the new teacher, Mr. Onceler, spoke and explain the subject in such a way that I'm suddenly interested in.
"What could possibly Principal North want with me? Did I fail a subject or something? Or worst, am I in some sort of deep trouble?" I mutter aimlessly to myself, nervously playing with a strand of black hair.
As I neared the doors to his office, I take a look at my reflection on the glass window - straight, long ebony black hair, uncooperative bangs swept to the side and kept put by a head band. Taking a deep breath, I reach for the knob whilst putting a hand to my head.
"Hi Lia!" Principal North's secretary, Phil, greets me. He's this man with a long beard and hair, round grey eyes, a thick Ukrainian or Russian accent, and a big build, but also a big heart. His full name is Philippe Abomasnow. He's probably too old to be a secretary, but he's a very loyal friend to Principal North. Plus, he's very trustworthy of the job.
"Hi Phil..." I greet back quietly. "U-Uhm..."
Noticing my discomfort, he realizes the purpose of my presence and instantly stands up from his desk, he walks towards me and puts a large secure hand behind my back and leads me to the door right next to Vice-Principal Sandy's with a sign on the door that reads 'Student Body Meeting Room'.
Why the hell am I needed here?
Phil knocks on the door twice and opens the door before anyone from the other side of the door could stop him. Everyone's voices die down and turn to stare at me. Well this is awkward.
"Ah good, she's here!" Principal North says happily. He's sitting at the head of a long table, VP Sandy on his left, Coach E to his right, Mister Black beside VP Sandy and Miss Elina, an empty seat across her, and Jack. Wait, Jack?
"Lia!" Miss Elina rushes over me, hugging me quickly and takes my hand towards the long table. She sits me beside Jack who's eyeing me with such playfulness.
"Thank you Phil that will be all." Principal North says, leaving a waving Phil to close the door behind him.
Awkward silence seeps in; my eyes dart everywhere until I find my voice.
"Um, am I in trouble in some sort?"
"Trouble?" Principal North repeats, I nod once "Nonsense child! Hoho, why would you say that?"
"Then can anyone explain why I'm here then? More importantly, why is he here?" I point towards Jack, who widens his eyes in surprise at my accusing finger.
"Hey, hey, hey, watch where you're pointing Li." He lowers my finger cautiously "I just needed an assistant is all."
"A-Assistant?" I almost took a double take.
"Exactly." Principal North confirms, I turn to him then to Jack.
"Assistant to what exactly?"
"This 'lil troublemaker happens to be the Student Body Head of Activities and Student Ambassador." Coach explains, I think my mouth dropped.
"Seriously?" They all nod their heads at me; I looked over to Jack who was smug with my expression.
Principal North explains how it's been a school tradition for the elementary students to have a Christmas party as a whole. Since it's the merriest time of the year and all, they make it sure that every year's celebration will always be bright and jolly. And that having Jack as the Student Ambassador has been a joy and wonder, he's been spontaneously amazing and incredibly responsible with his tasks.
"Okay, but I still don't get how I fit in the picture." I say with uneasiness, staring up at the adults.
"Apparently, Jack is having some sort of trouble with this year's task at hand." Mister Black says coolly. "Says that he may need a helping hand in thinking things through and when we asked him, he said he needed an assistant. The assistant, being you."
I turn to Jack with a dangerous glare. Seriously, of all people? He could have picked Hiccup or Merida! But why me?
"We need your help Lia." Principal North pleads those big blue eyes full of wonder stares back into my hazel ones. The infamous, Santa Puppy stare.
Gah, no turning back! But there's also no way I'm going to turn down this offer either. Besides, it's for a selfless cause! I'd hate to turn down for a cause like that; besides, I'll be helping elementary kids. And I absolutely love kids.
I also feel warm and giddy at the realization of how sincere and generous Jack is for being so devoted in his work. Ehem, everyone in this room is devoted to their work, even Mister Black, who has a really funny way of showing it.
Alright, I've decided!
"So what can I do to help?"
An hour and thirty minutes later...
Sigh.
"Really, of all people you can think of." I mutter to Jack who is walking right beside me as we head home.
"And I picked the right person." He points out complacently, walking backwards as snow falls down on us. There is endless joy and wonder in his eyes as he watches the snow fall. My aggravated expression falls into that of pure wonder.
"You really love snow don't you?" I didn't even need an answer for it was plain obvious in those amber eyes of his, the way it gleamed and glistened at the endless snow.
"I've said it once, and I'll say it once more. I just love winter Li." A knowing smile breaks into my face as he says the phrase easily. Of course he does, it's just not that obvious.
"I know what you mean," I notice a snowflake fall before me as it melts into my nose. I sneezed.
"Aha, you've been nipped by Jack Frost!"
"Who now?" I tilt my head in puzzlement, light bulb moment. "You mean the winter spirit?"
"Duh!"
"Well, tee hee. Sorry we don't have those kinds of myths being that we only have 2 seasons." I say sourly. Something collides from the back of my head, sending my beanie forward. I turn to the prime suspect who only whistles innocently with both hands on his pocket.
"Oh you did not just do that Jack Snow." I warn as I pick my beanie from the ground.
"Oh, whatever do you mean Lia Ellen?" he says innocently.
I'm about to bark something nasty, but keep it in as I can't resist to throw a snowball at him. It hits him square in the face. I snicker childishly, and he in turn readies his snowball. But I hit him fast before he can ever throw it.
Oh yeah, you taught the wrong person to make the perfect snowball Snow!
"Not fair Lia!" was all he said before we engage into a full snowball fight in our course home.
Upon telling my family about my assistance work to Jack, they were all ecstatic and excited that I finally have something to do rather than stay home, most especially my Lola. Bobby was more than excited since I'd be dropping by his school every now and then. Yay! Then I'd get to meet Jamie and Emma more often! Tita was more than ecstatic since she'll be helping in secrecy. Tito couldn't be of any help since he's just a mere teacher, but wished me the best of luck.
As for my parents...well, they weren't there because they were working late, as usual.
I was somewhat disappointed for their absence even when I was here. It's like they don't have time for me! Yeah, we do talk at times, but that was only during dinner time! Oh and when it's their day off? We barely spend quality time together; they insist that I spend it with Bobby or Jack. Sometimes when we go shopping, they're too withdrawn to speak to me! It's frustrating! I can't keep it any longer than I already have; I just want my folks to acknowledge me and to make up for the lost years. Was that so hard?
"Ling, intindihin mo nalang sila apo..." Lola Carries says softly, putting a hand over my hand. I looked up to my Grandmother's soft hazel eyes like mine, smiling faintly to lessen my pain. (Ling, just try to understand them.)
"Opo Lola…" I said. I wanted to say something else, but found that it would lead to eventual turn of events. I didn't want it. It just soured my mood.
And even when I flopped into my bed, it still stung me hard. I can't stop the tears any longer and just allowed them to freely slip down my face. Scalding hot tears fell fast; each tear represented the aching need for my parents, and the longing I've wanted. For the huge gap in my growing up years, all I needed were them. I bit down my lip to prevent any sob from breaking out of my mouth. I didn't want them to know. My problems were mine to worry about, not theirs.
I hadn't realized that I slept in that moment of vulnerability.
Flashes, angry flashes of light accompanied by a roar of thunder.
Rapid water, very fast and very cold.
The water is brown and a little bit of red, why is there red?
A small girl is swimming against the current, back to something. She's holding unto a large guy whose unconscious and very pale, she's almost reaching to another guy.
He's screaming against the howling wind and heavy rain. He's telling her to grab his hand but she's struggling against the current.
She can't feel her legs any longer; she's just so tired and numb. She tries to fight the will to keep going; her hands are just about to reach his large hand.
But even before she can touch his hands, it's suddenly gone. The man she's holding unto is gone; she's all alone in the fast rapid brown water. A stabbing pain courses through her veins, numbing hands and legs, she's struggling to keep up against the current.
But alas, she cannot and the current carries her away.
Soon, something knocks her out.
Everything was cold…and dark…and it was scary.
I woke up with a start, taking a mouthful of precious air. My lungs never felt like they've needed air in my whole lifetime. I realize that I'm shaking like mad, cold sweating even. I must look pale, disheveled even.
Curiously, I turn to my alarm clock and note that I've been out for barely 2 hours.
I drape an arm over my eyes as I catch my breath, still continually shaking. I can feel it from my toes! I'm that shaken up. I haven't dreamt of that in a while, not after that eventful day, I've had restless nights. Probably because its December that that dream came up, it's the anniversary of that after all - Sendong.
The sound of creaking footsteps catches my attention, soft whispers and hush conversation followed after. I quietly walk out of bed and lean against my door, slowly unlocking it and peeking a bit no one's there, the voices are coming from downstairs. I sneak outside quietly, tiptoeing towards the stairs and remain there.
"…talaga? Kailan lang?" it's my Mom, she sounds pleased. (…really? When?)
"Sa Dinner, assistant daw siya kay Jack." Its Lola Carrie this time, she's evenly pleased. (At dinner, she's an assistant to Jack.)
A satisfied grunt follows and I know it's my Dad, they must have arrived now.
"Ah, si Jack ba…gusto ko 'yan, mabuti siyang bata." Dad says, I roll my eyes good-naturedly. (Oh, Jack. I like that, he's a good kid.)
"Oo nga, mukha ring mabuti siyang impluwensya kay Lia ano?" Lola says and it brings them into laughter, I groan silently. (Indeed, it looks like he's been a good influence to Lia no?)
"Talagang mabuting impluensya!" says Mom, how much longer are they going to talk about my relationship with him? (A very good influence!)
"Oh, kumain na ba kayo?" Lola asks. (Have you two eaten?)
"Opo 'nay, sumabay kami ni Irene kanikanina lang." Dad tells her. (Yes Mother, Irene and I ate together a while ago.)
My Lola stands up from her chair and wishes them a goodnight, her bedroom's just downstairs. I in turn return to my room, not wanting to eavesdrop any longer. Lola already informed them on my assistance to Jack, they're probably proud of me and but that's that. I'm about to retreat into my room when I hear my Lola say something.
"Irene, Galileo, bigyan naman niyo ng pansin si Lia. Kawawa naman ang bata o, parang binabaliwala niyo lang." (Irene, Galileo, lend Lia some of your attention. The poor child, it seems like you're neglecting her.)
I grip the door handle tight as I remain dead silent.
Their shuffling on the ground they're standing on, like they were hesitating to speak. It was as if they were talking to me at the moment, I swallow.
"Hindi sa binabaliwala naming ang anak namin 'nay, kundi...parang..." My Dad's tone is low, but so full of sorrow. (It's not that we're neglecting our child Mother, it's just...it's...)
"Parang nagu-guilty kami sa sinapit niya. Sa tuwing nakikita namin si Lia, parang nababaon kami ng mga konsyensa namin." Mom says afterwards, her smooth voice is rather sad. (It's making us guilty of what happened to her. Every time we see Lia, it's like we're being choked up by our conscience.)
I don't want to hear anymore but find that my feet are glued to the ground, like I needed to eavesdrop their part. I don't eavesdrop. Lola Carrie sighs rather exasperatedly after a few seconds, it's like she's had this talk before and that my parents are being so stubborn and hard-headed.
"Kahit na, sana lang ay ginamit ninyo ang pagkakataong nito upang bawiin ang mga panahong nagkulang kayo bilang mga magulang niya. Kailangan kayo ng anak niyo Galileo at Irene. Ano nalang ang sasabihin nilang Joshua at Kenneth kapag nalaman nilang wala kayong nagawa?" Lola says in a wise tone. (Still, you should at least use this opportunity to take back those empty years as her parents. Your child needs you, Galileo and Irene. What would Joshua and Kenneth say once they know you're not doing anything?)
I hear no more as I've entered my room and carefully shut the door behind me. I leisurely slid against the door until my butt has reached the floor; I bring my knees close to my chest and fold my arms around them. I rock my body back and forth and keep my voice down as I hear my parents' foot steps behind the door, Mom sounds like she's sobbing and my heart constricts. They're gone a few seconds later.
I'm immobile, too distraught from the last hours of today – the meeting, summary of what I'm up for, my disappointment, that dream, and the accidental eavesdropping. That caused my sleep, and now I'm left staring blankly out my window where the snow cascades down the almost purple twilight.
It's amazing how fixated I am at concentrating at the view outside that I don't notice the sound of something vibrating. Good thing I put my phone on silent, didn't want my ringtone of 'Titanium' to fill the room with such unfitting mood. Dragging my moping butt off the ground, I grab my phone from my bedside and hurriedly put it to my ear without any care of the time. Heck, I didn't even bother to check the caller ID!
"Hello?" my tone is blatantly dead and shallow.
"Hey Li..." I am almost automatically awake to the sound of my unofficial best friend's voice. "Jack?" he merely grunts at the recognition.
"What're you doing calling me at this late hour?" It's ten forty-one, oh sure do I connote to actually time check when Jack's called.
"Uh...I don't know really," he laughs nervously; I can almost picture him scratching his scruffy brown hair.
"So what's up?" I ask as I sit on the ground, watching his window from across mine.
"Oh y'know, I was just in the middle of reading 'Paper Towns' in bed when the sight of your window suddenly caught my attention, I realized that I had abandoned the book for about half an hour."
"So, you're a fictional bookworm now? More specifically, a John Green novel? Nice choice." I walk towards my window and look out; he's looking back at me. I'm not surprised. I wave, he waves back.
"Hiccup suggested the book to me once; it's kind of interesting really. John Green has a way of bringing out the beauty in his ways."
"I know, I read 'Faults in Our Stars' made me cry so much that I regret laughing."
He chuckles, "Don't spoil me, I'm planning to read that too."Eyes roll.
"So how 'bout you?" he suddenly asks.
"What about me?" I let the words sink. "Oh, you know...told everyone about the assistant thingy, everyone was creepily overjoyed. Most especially Bobby and Lola Carrie, it's really kind of creepy to no end."
From afar, I could see him smirk. "That's the power of my awesomeness Li, your family just can't get enough of me."
I roll my eyes at his audacity "Please, you're creepiness just happens to rub off on them. On everyone actually."
"Even you?"
"What? No!"
Jack breaks into a fit of laughter, it's infecting me."It's not funny Jack!" I berate, but find myself grinning without knowing. Even when he's on the phone does he sound so full of life.
After a moment, his laughing slowly dies down and he's calmed down.
"So what did your parents think Lia? Were they over the top as well?" My grin drops, and so does my head.
"Uh..." I avert from him, scratching my toes in thought. "they weren't there when I announced it."
"Why not?"
"Erhm...they uh, they were working late..." he says nothing, I listen to his breathing.
"Is that the reason why you sound so sad right now?"
My eyes widen in surprise, I whip to gaze at him out my window. He looks straight at me, dark amber eyes locked unto mine.
"How-"
"Don't try to hide it Lia, I can tell from the tone of your voice the moment you picked up that something's off." He earnestly tells me. I sign in defeat; I'm no match for him. He can see past through me like he was reading a book.
"Lia?" he calls, those amber orbs are looking into my hazel ones from afar, I can feel the emotion emanating from them. Like the ones from when we first met.
Even when he's far away, he has this effect on me to just tell him.
And so I tell him about my disappointment at dinner, me crying as I came to my room and the conversation I overheard. Like always, he's attentive and listening carefully. He never cuts in, just letting I let out whatever's bothering so he can try and give me some words of wisdom. It's always so comforting to tell him something, because he'll always say something in return that will make me feel better. I'm really glad that he's my best friend.
"As young as I was, I never really cared for the toys, clothes and money that my parents sent. Those weren't really important, they were. For all the money in the world, I'd rather trade my parents. Because, I didn't really care if we were dirt poor or couldn't eat fancy chocolate Dad usually sent, or wear branded clothes, No. Because for me, the only thing that was really important were my folks, Mom and Dad, just them and nothing else. I wouldn't mind not having the luxuries in life, for as long as we were together as a family then it's all that ever matters. I would always be jealous when there was a Family Day event in school, in television or anywhere. Even when Kuya Jag and Kuya Kenny offered to accompany me, I'd rather not go. I didn't want to be jealous of the kids with their parents while I mine weren't there. To go there and be surrounded by families would practically choke me in tears, seeing them as one really got to me. I'd be jealous of my classmate's rants of their parents scolding them; they had no idea how much I longed for mine to do that because they cared for their child's well-being. My parents and I communicated via phone or web chat, which was really so sad. They had no idea how much I longed to hug them in my arms, to know that they'd chase away my fears, and that they'll always be by my side. And when I came here, it just...it..." I struggled for a word. "It just..."
"Just wasn't working..." Jack finished for me; I nod not noticing that a rebellious tear managed to slip down my face. I rub it off quickly, stifling a yawn as I do so.
"Tired?" he asks rather disappointedly, dark amber orbs never leaving my hazel ones.
"Hmm, exhausted." I say tiredly, finally realizing how exhausted I was. But the fear of seeing that shakes me off, filling my insomnia. "Problem is, I can't sleep. I'm scared to close my eyes."
He's watching me with such expression of deep concern. "Bad dream?" I nod wordlessly."What was it about?"
I tighten my lips together, terrified of remembering the horror of the rapid water even when it was just a dream. I wonder if that dream would keep me up all night.
"I dreamt that I was drowning." Jack falls into dead silence; I feel the Goosebumps crawling throughout my skin. "The current was fast, very fast. It was even raining hard, thunder and lightning coursed through the night. It was so loud, everyone was screaming in fear. I was screaming in fear. And then I blacked out..." I flopped myself against my bed, phone still in my ear as I tightened my hold on it.
"So that's why you don't swim anymore." He realized tone sorrowful and heavy, like it's for my sake.
"Hmm."
I stare up my ceiling as I'm sprawled against my bed, too scared to fall asleep, but ironically, too awake to be staying up talking with Jack in the wee hours of the night.
Awkwardly enough, Jack successfully manages to shift the subject into something else. Gladly enough, I let him since it was more than awkward enough to get stuck in that subject. So instead of focusing on pressing matters, Jack and I talk about the most random thing that pops in our head. Basically, we were plainly talking over the phone which was really comforting. It almost felt like he was right beside me and we talked about important matters that badly needs to be discussed.
We had been chatting for hours before I finally dozed off, Jack following afterwards.
The nightmare was long gone, the disappointment forgotten, but a myriad of unknown happiness hatched.
For 9 consecutive days the morning after, it's been nothing but work, work, and work. Well, light work actually. I had this impression that me and Jack would be at desks working on a mountain load of papers and documents when actually, we were tasked to facilitate the program.
So obviously, we facilitate the program and make sure that everything runs smoothly. The both of us double check on almost everything and have to do the same with reports and updates coming from a few student body students. Curiously, I am still left in wonder as to why Jack put me up for this. But I drop the topic entirely 5 minutes afterwards, seeing as it's not going anywhere. Both Merida and Hiccup totally understand what we're doing, but I can't seem to understand why Merida seems to give Jack a lot more bullying done than what she does to Hiccup.
So anyway, Miss Elina's in charge of the decorations, VP Sandy collaborating with the parents for the food, Mister Black with the finance (and occasionally at Miss Elina's aid, wink wink), Coach E with the technical stuff and entertainment, and finally, Principal North who has the whole security undercover (thank you Phil and friends).
As the event draws near, Principal North beams up more and more each day with excitement that it's almost…funny yet excruciatingly adorable. The man must really love kids. That and because the Christmas party is coming to a close too.
Just, on the 17th of December.
Which happens to be...that day as well.
When Principal North told me of the event date, I almost wanted to pass out and decline the offer. But remembering the children and how much it can be of a coping up mechanism (Lola's words not mine); I decided to take it up. Even when there was a nagging voice behind me that was screaming 'No way in hell, just drop it like its hot Lia Ellen!' I decided that I'd go against my bitter judgment.
And even as I woke up this morning, I awoke with fresh tears blurring my view and an aching hole in my chest. I hastily wiped them off from my eyes with the back of my hand, gazing fixedly up at my ceiling.
I exhale a monotone breathe, "It's been a year...has it?"
The Christmas party wouldn't be until 5 pm, it's early 6 am and my schedule's pretty jam packed; I have to attend an early morning mass, before I drop by to Principal North's house for some pre-Christmas party and 'we-hope-that-this-will-be-another-success' thing. So I got off bed, dressed up in my Sunday dress (even when it was Monday) and met with my family downstairs. They were all looking at me with a sympathetic expression that I knew so well, I kept a straight face on. I didn't want to cry over this, it's been a year and I can't expect myself to cry over this. I'm stronger than that. But my parents seemed to have worst expressions written on their faces, I couldn't blame them for that.
The awkward thing about first anniversaries is how it still seems so fresh and evident, like it never left. That's how the mass went. During homily, the priest narrates to us of last year, how devastated he was and how families were asking him for a prayer to tell them that all will be alright. When he was telling us this, there were people who crying and sobbing, I turned to my Aunt and was surprised to see her clutching Bobby close to her, sobbing uncontrollably. Lola Carrie, who was holding my hand the moment we came, gripped me hand tightly, as if she were telling me that everything would be alright. As for my parents, they stood their ground with heavy hearts while the fresh tears streamed down their face. I mentally told myself not to cry, not here. I was done crying, I just wanted to heal from this.
Right after the mass, we had breakfast at Jollibee. Nostalgic actually, I haven't gone here in a while. And just eating here with my family was something, I felt like I was home.
Upon arriving home, I ran up to my room and plopped myself to my bed. I almost forgot that I needed to head out. There was no way I'd pass out on this event just because that would wear me down. No sir. And besides, I'm heading off to Principal North's to meet up with everyone! It's actually my first time going to Principal North's; it's got me pretty excited.
Agonizingly, I jump out of bed and change into a new set of clothes, grab my satchel and leave. "Ling!" a voice calls me, startling me in place. It's Dad, Mom's footsteps follow after his heavy ones.
I turn from my spot and look at them. "Po?" (Yes?) I say politely. I should have pretended that I didn't hear them and left, I didn't want to talk with them now. Not now, of all dates and times.
"Are you going out now?"
"Ah, yes. I have to go now, is that a problem?"
Dad shakes his head; he lifts a hand to rub the back of his neck. He opens his mouth, but immediately closes it. Mom grips his hand reassuringly, opening her mouth to speak.
"Take care Ling, have fun at the party alright?"
I stare at them. Stupefied and grateful, they haven't done this to me since…forever. It feels new to me.
"O-Opo…"
Mom takes my cream scarf and wraps it around my neck. Once she's done, Dad ruffles my hair playfully.
"Be home before 10 o'clock Lia."
I look up at him, two genuine smiles on their faces. My heart swells in happiness. I return the action and grab the door knob.
"Bye Ma, Pa!"
"Sit up straight dear, and look that way please." Miss Elina instructed me sternly as she applies foundation on my face. It's only an hour and a half until the party and Miss Elina and I have to get ready for the party. Being that we're girls and all. Principal North lent us one of his guest rooms where it's very…feminine. And did I mention how rich the man was?
Apparently, Principal North used to serve in the Soviets and was a war veteran. He helped fought for peace between the raging nations and retired early after he realized that war went nowhere. After his early retirement, he was introduced to his family business of toy-making. He stayed for a while but quit later on, said it wasn't really his calling. But when he was introduced to his mother's job as a principal, he felt that it was finally his center. His calling came to him. His center to spread the joy and wonder and protect the children, good or bad, naughty or nice, he'll be the jolly guy for the children.
So anyway, he just lives a few blocks from the city. And his house is just freaking huge. HUGE I tell you. When I first saw it, I had mistaken it for a Gingerbread house because of how festive and Christmas-y it was. From the roof, the windows, the pine trees behind his house, to his metal gates, and even from the interior. Principal North's family was out of town but would return once Christmas draws near.
Okay, back on track…wait, rewind for a bit.
So after I left my house, I was walking to Principal North's when I realized that I had no idea where the man lived. He didn't even leave me a map!
Luckily, Mister Black, who was on his way to Principal North's, gave me a lift. I had to stifle a teasing grin when I noticed Miss Elina on the passenger seat. I sat back and pretended to be mad that Jack was with them. But he saw right through me and we ended up laughing our butts off until we had arrived.
A quick final update ensued afterwards – the entertainment and sound system were okay, the food was to be delivered 30 minutes before the party, the arrangements were done, decorations were also done. We were all set for the party until I was told that it was semi-formal event.
"Say what?" I asked stupefied.
They glance at the other, then at Jack.
"Whoops, looks like I forgot to tell her."
I groan, no way am I going there in jeans and a sweater!
"Oh, don't worry about what you're going to wear Lia! You're parents have that covered!" Miss Elina says jubilantly and excitedly. Baby Tooth just shrugs.
"M-My parents have that covered?" Shock washes over me.
"Yup!" Jack says cheekily, staring at me boyishly. "I secretly brought it up while you weren't looking. Said it was an early Christmas gift and that they both had it sewed for you."
How does he know all this? I open my mouth to ask before Miss Elina grabs my hand and leads me to the guest room, telling the boys to dress up before she closes the door behind her. She sits me in front of the vanity table and grabs my dress lying on the bed. Baby Tooth sits herself on my shoulder and seems excited with what Miss Elina is doing. Taking off the plastic from the hanger, she presents me the dress. I'm looking at it and realize that it's beautiful. It's a simple white tube dress with snowflake-like patterns and a dark blue satin bow hugging each side of the dress.
"It's beautiful…" I whisper quietly, adoring how simple yet beautiful the dress is.
Miss Elina catches my expression and smiles, the dress still in hand as she walks towards me.
"I know, your parents have good taste."
"I'm worried of how much money they spent on this." I admit aloud, raising my eyes to Miss Elina's purple eyes. She shakes her head, cropped apple red hair flailing to the sides.
"Nonsense Lia! You're their daughter! There is nothing parents want more than to make their child feel like they're special, even if it meant costing them a fortune." She says with reassuring eyes. Baby Tooth squeaks from my side, like she's telling me something I don't know. And then, she's kissing my cheek and flying over to sit on Miss Elina's shoulder.
I feel the dress against the tips of my fingers; it's so smooth and beautiful. Mom, Dad, you didn't have to do much…
"Here, you should get dressed." She hands me the dress and walks to the bathroom. "I left my dress on one of the dressers in the bathroom, I'll change there."
I nod at her and turn to dress up. I look at the dress again, smiling faintly at what my parents had given me. "They really didn't have to do much, it's really beautiful…"
After I've put on the dress, I curiously turn to the full-length mirror and gape in awestruck.
I can barely recognize myself. I look like a winter sprite.
The girl looking right back at me looks sweet, naïve and docile. The dress ends right up my knees by two inches, with delicate designs on the hem. The satin bow hugs my waist just fine; exposing enough curves that I barely knew existed. The twin bows on each side really makes me look more child-like in this dress. My jet black hair falls against my shoulder, a bit unruly. I know that I'm not leaving it long.
Not long after, Miss Elina emerges from the bathroom with a stunning dress. She looks like a fairy with the way the emerald green dress hugs her slender figure, feathery-like sleeves and a skirt with rainbow streaks. She has her hair in a neat bun with a few hairs framing over her face. The moment she saw me, she pipes up happily and claps her hands together. Her make-up is minimal, light purple eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, rosy blush and pink lipstick. She rushes over to me through her purple heels, how long has she been wearing those?
"Oh Lia, you look absolutely adorable! Almost like what we'd plan you to look like!"
I cock my head to the side in question, "Excuse me?"
She takes a moment to asses what I've said before she smacks her head lightly.
"Of course, they forgot to tell you didn't they?" Nod. "Every year, we have a special theme. Of course, North goes as Santa Clause, while the rest of us are his loyal steeds or friends. And this year's theme is mythical creatures! I'm the Tooth Fairy!"
"So what am I supposed to be?"
"You're our Snow Angel!"
"But I'm missing my wings." I protest. In a flash, she produces a snowflake crown. It reminds me of what hippies would wear, and it almost reminds me of a flower crown. Except this one's entirely out of 'snow' and it looks like it's been made for a while, but carefully decorated. I take it from her and adore it against my hand.
"You don't really need wings Lia, you just need a crown. And here, Jack made this for you."
I am taken aback. "J-Jack made this for me? Since when?" Miss Elina shrugs.
"Wow, it's really something…" I'm referring to the crown in my hand, adoring it against my fingers. It's really so beautiful.
"Your hair is a bit of a mess Lia, here let me help." I sit on the chair and stare at my reflection, the snowflake crown on my lap. She asks me what hairstyle I would prefer, frankly, I have no idea of what kind of hairstyle I would like. So I leave it up to her, she can style my hair.
Miss Elina takes a moment to think what to do with my hair, absentmindedly brushing it repeatedly. Before long, she starts applying a scented hair repair cream on her hand before massaging it through my hair. After a few minutes, she starts curling my hair by the ends, ties a portion of my hair into an intricate braid, takes the crown from my lap and carefully places it on my head. She starts spraying her lavender perfume all over me, it's soothing and calming to the nerves. Before I realize it, she starts applying make-up on me as well; eyeliner, light blue mascara, rosy blush and pale pink lipstick. As I slowly open my eyes, I cannot believe what little magic make-up can do. The girl looking back at me is really adorable, stunning even. My bangs are swept to the side, framing my face innocently. My hair falls in soft curls as it spills on my bare shoulders.
I can hardly believe that this is me.
I look like a Snow Angel indeed.
Miss Elina smiles at her work but says she's far from done. She takes a few steps back to retrieve something; I curiously turn to watch her pick up a few boxes – two shoe boxed shaped boxes where one's red box with a white ribbon and a another green box with a white bow.
She first presents me the green box. "An early Christmas gift from Principal North and Sandy. It's two actually, but it all fits in this one box." I nod and she hands me the gift, restiing the red box in her lap. Carefully undoing the ribbon and then taking the lid, I find a cream poncho and a pair of earrings. The earrings are a simple sapphire studs with silver linings, it's beautiful. I carefully put them on and look at myself in the mirror; they match perfectly with my outfit.
"They're beautiful…" I say to Miss Elina, feeling the poncho against my hands. It's thick and smooth to the touch.
She simply nods and turns to hand me the next gift, she's smiling uncontrollably. She must be really excited about this one.
"This is an early Christmas gift from Haythem and me."
As she opens the box, my mouth quickly dries. Inside the box, is an expensive looking pair of Mary Jane heels – dark blue in color, similar to the color of bows on my dress, with white linings and the faintest snow flake design at the heel.
"I-I don't have to wear heels, do I?"
Miss Elina chuckles lightly, as if passing it off.
"Yes, yes you do." She says.
I only stare at her gift in mild horror. It's beautiful, I gotta admit.
But can she not see the horror and worry written all over my face?
Jack is making fun of Coach E's bunny ears; he's wearing a dark blue button up shirt with frosted like patterns circling the collar, light blue vest, a necktie and white dress pants with matching shoes. Coach E is wearing a grey dress shirt, a bow, tan pants and suspenders. VP Sandy is in a crisp yellow button up, gold sweater and pants. Mister Black looks cool and savvy in his dark grey suit, so nonchalant and him. While Principal North is, well…all-clad up in his Santa Clause outfit.
The men are busy chatting amongst themselves, barely noticing Miss Elina descending the steps. I remain meek and shy at the balcony stairs, watching Miss Elina gracefully make her way down. Baby Tooth is right on my shoulder giving me a thumbs-up in assurance. I don't know, I feel nervous for some reason. Miss Elina had instructed me to remain up first; she'll make my grand entrance. She wants to surprise them.
Once she's a few steps, Miss Elina clears her throat, catching their attention.
"May I present, our snow angel – Lia!"
As if on cue, I slowly descend down the steps. Carefully taking one at a time thanks to the three-inch heels of which I have little experience on using. As I reach the second step, I shyly fiddle with my fingers, smiling nervously at everyone. They watch me in amusement, but Jack's expression seems to be off. It's so unlike him, like he's seeing me for the first time. That faint pink streak spreading across his face is terribly not to amiss.
"Beautiful, what a beautiful flower you are Lia!" Principal North says with open arms.
"Aye." Coach E agrees with a nod.
VP Sandy claps animatedly; Mister Black gives me a satisfied grin, and Tita Helen squeals and hurriedly grabs her camera and starts snapping away.
Wait, what?
"Tita Helen? Why are you here!?" I ask, slightly annoyed and embarrassed at her behavior. Tita's sassiness knows no boundaries; it's a wonder how my Tito kept up with her.
"Surprise!" was all she said, oblivious to my shock and begins to snap photos of me.
"Tita! This is a Christmas party, not a prom!" I remind her in frustration.
She ignores my frustration and snaps away, Miss Elina joining in the picture.
"Ling, smile naman oh!" she encourages. Man is my aunt embarrassing; but I force a genuine smile on my face anyway.
"Oh, oh, picture with the boys naman Lia!" she walks over and pushes the men to me, Miss Elina walks away. She gives me a wink and joins my sassy aunt on the side.
"Principal North," SNAP. "Coach Bunny," SNAP. "Doctor Yellowstone," SNAP. "Mister Black," SNAP. "And lastly, Jack. Hijo?"
Jack actually jolts to the sound of his own name, I catch Coach E snickering. He's looking up at me like I were a foot taller than him. Hmm, I wonder if I'm taller than him now that I'm in heels. Hehehe… Filled with these thoughts, I descend down the steps as gracefully as I can. But because I'm inexperienced with heels, I clumsily tumble forward. I close my eyes and prepare for the impact with the carpet floor, but instead, I land on a hard chest with a pair of arms wrapping themselves around me. Jack laughs against my hair; his breathe tickling my ears, telling me to watch my step. I'm about to retort something back but stop when the distance between us is anything but awkward. Correction, awkwardly close -like, really close.
I'm stuck in the moment gazing into those beautiful dark amber eyes of his. Accidentally, I inhale his scent, he smells of fresh laundry and body wash. Jack doesn't wear cologne or perfume, but dear god, does he smell good.
He carefully sets me on my feet, never taking his arms and his eyes off me. He's still taller than me by a few inches; damn I'm really that short. I awkwardly back away from him, avoiding Coach E's knowing smirk, and everyone else's teasing look. VP Sandy is the only one oblivious to the mood; I thank the heavens for that.
"E-Erm, a-are you alright Li?" he stammers, I barely nod my head. I hear Coach E's loud snicker behind us, oh god.
After a short while…
SNAP.
Tita Helen has just snapped a photo of me and Jack. I sigh in relief, just wanting to get this party over with. I turn to my Tita with a glare; she just stares back at me innocently. Geez, Tita jud oh.
"Shall we go?" Principal North announces before we leave the manor.
The school gym is decorated in almost blue and white. Blue and white balloons on each table as a centerpiece, snowflakes and flowers decorating the stage, a long table filled with food and an ice sculpture of two swans. Right beside the stage is a 9 feet tall Christmas tree, with presents on the foot of the tree. Each table cloth is assorted in red and white colors, very festive. There are enchanting swirls that clash with the snow by the wall, and a few paintings of spring. Even the ground is covered in flower petals, fresh if I may add.
Wow, they sure went all out for these kinds of things.
Upon entering the gym, I almost slipped if not for Jack behind me. Seriously, I cannot walk on heels. They will be the death of me. Jack has his arms around my waist; I push him away before Coach E can even see it. I mumble my thanks to him and headed off for the stage. Jack follows after me like some puppy, and I swear that Coach E was continually snickering at us.
Miss Elina was suddenly at my side not later than a few minutes later, holding unto my left arm as she shoots me with questions whether the decorations she and Mister Black had put up were alright. I told her that it was beyond what I had imagined, and she squealed in delight. Baby Tooth was magically at Jack's shoulder, walking behind us like he were our bodyguard. We went around the gym just checking every single detail Miss Elina had put up, greeting some kids and Miss Elina engaging me into small chat. I didn't really mind her actually, the action she was doing almost made me think that she was my big sister. It was fun having a feminine role model.
When it was 6:45, Principal North, who was five tables away from us, signaled us that it was time.
I awkwardly walked over to the stage to meet the technician; Miss Elina was long gone the moment she was told, she was piping up with excitement. The technician hands me and Jack the microphone after me and Jack go over the flow of the program one last time. And word of advice? Heels are killing me; they do not help me at all. Like, literally. Even when climbing up the stairs, I have to balance myself and hold unto the rail to deem myself safe. Jack seems amused with my discomfort, but holds up a hand to me. I stared at it for a second, and then at Jack. I take it and I feel like a baby taking its first steps.
As I reach the stage, I thank Jack for his help and let go of his hand. The two of us walk towards the centre of the stage and bring the microphone to our mouths, greeting the crowd energetically and grinning like crazy when they greet us back. Oh this is fun! The pain and awkward fumbling with my heels is long forgotten.
We start out by having a little interaction with our crowd, composed of elementary students and a few school administrators and a few parents. It was really so fun. I just absolutely love kids; they're always so full of life and energy. And I bet Jack feels the same way too. I mean, he's just so natural when he interacts with them. Well, he's always that way with everyone. After a few fun and terribly wacky parlor games, it was then time for dinner.
Boy was I hungry.
We both head off to the stairs, but he stops momentarily at the top step. I turn to him raising my brow in suspicion ready to question. But his open hand takes me back, a cheeky smile on his face. Rolling my eyes, I take his hand and we slowly descend down the steps. He doesn't let go of my hand even as we head to our table. I wasn't even aware that I had even begun to sway it as Jack joked!
But no matter, I was still hungry.
And the moment we arrived at the concession stand, I quickly fell in line and took out any food I could get my hands into. I almost ended up with 3 plates and Jack had to help me bring them to the table. Everyone was giving me the look, but I didn't care. I have a monstrous appetite. I practically grew up with guys after all.
As I'm munching my meal, I had notice that Coach E wasn't present at the table. He was supposed to sit beside me, but he was nowhere to be found. And when I asked Jack, he pointed towards the stage where he was holding up a guitar in hand and a microphone stand before him. He was going to sing? I almost dropped my fork when Coach E greeted the kids. His thick Australian accent filled the gym, leaving out a few messages to the staff, the kids and to our table before he had begun to sing. Oh wow, this was new. I never heard him sing before.
"Yeah well," Jack says, apparently, he had heard what I said "believe it or not, Bunny used to be part of a boy band."
I almost spat my drink and stared at Jack. He grinned at me, clearly telling me that he was kidding. We laughed to the sound of 'Frosty the Snowman'.
"Jack, stop making me laugh, I am trying to eat here!" I say, fighting the urge not to laugh out loud. But Jack's boyish laughter gets me, I'm giggling like a happy school girl.
"Kidding, kidding! Nah, Bunny used to be part of the opera or something..."
"Actually, he was." Mister Black supplied, taking a sip of his drink. How long was he listening to us?
"Really?" I piped up in curiosity. It's not everyday I get to hear something good, more likely, from Mister Black!
The black-haired hair nods once and explains without looking at us in the eye. And before I realize it, Coach E is already back at our table. I turn to him innocently, grinning like mad. Jack smirks at him. And Coach E raises a brow at us; he has no idea what we've learned. From behind us, Mister Black chuckles darkly.
"Nice voice there Bunny~" Jack teases earning a whack in the head. I giggle at the action; the two are like rivalry-ridden siblings. It's too cute not to watch.
"Oi Dela Rosa, you're up." Coach E suddenly tells me. I stop short and gaze up at him confusingly, I'm what?
"H-Ha?"
VP Sandy clasps his hands together while Miss Elina suddenly smacks her head.
"Of course! No wonder I felt like forgetting something, Lia, can you possibly do the honor and sing for us?"
I gape nervously at her. Is she serious?
"A-Are you serious?" I ask. I have never sung in front of a crowd, a handful of people, I can handle. But a crowd is...gulp...yikes.
"I-I didn't sign up for this! I-I thought being an assistant to Jack was what I had signed up for?" I protested with my voice down. Everyone else was still eating, the occasional clinks and clunks and mindless chattering echoing the gym.
"We know but Lia but-"Miss Elina is interrupted when VP Sandy is suddenly by my side with his trusty notepad in hand. He hands it to me, and I take it willingly.
'Don't worry, you'll do fine. Think of it as a way of expressing how you feel today.'
Looking up to the blond man, I find him smiling wistfully at me. This man may not speak, and he may communicate in the oddest of ways, but he is definitely one of the wisest men I have ever met.
"Express how I feel today?" I whisper. And then it hits me, despite of the one-year anniversary, I managed to overcome this day with fits of smiles and pure joy thanks to everyone. Most especially that, I'm finally coping up with my parent's lost time. Yeah, he kinda makes sense.
"But, what do I sing?"
"Christmas songs, of course." Mister Black inquired with mild happiness.
"But you can sing some of your favourite songs of course." Jack added, resting his elbow on the table as he watches me with interest.
"Here, you can borrow my guitar." Coach E says casually as he hands me his guitar. It's a standard guitar that looks like it's been through a lot, but has been kept for all these years. I stare at it in wonder, unconsciously tuning it a bit.
Before I know it, Principal North magically appears behind me and practically carries me up the stage. I fumble against my heels, hugging the guitar close to me like it was a precious china doll.
"Good Evening everybody!" he greets in his thick Russian voice. "Everybody having a goodtime, yes?" The crowd of children responds 'yes' happily, I fumble awkwardly. My heart was beating like crazy, I could hear it against my ears. Maybe it's the heels, or my nervousness. Probably both, oh boy.
"We made this Christmas party special and possible thanks to your school staff," he directs to their table, earning a fit of cheers and applause from the children. "Us, the high school staff, and, because of your parents! But that's not all, we also had a special help from a special someone. She's new here, but she came up with many fun ideas! And do you know who it is kids?" the kids asked 'Who?' excitedly, I gulp nervously. Side-stepping, he presents me and the spotlight is on me.
"It because of Miss Lia Dela Rosa!" everyone is applauding at me. Principal North flexes his fingers, signaling me to come forward towards the microphone. Geez, hosting was way better than performing.
"U-Uh, hey guys..." the first thing that comes into my mind escapes my mouth. A hundred pair of eyes are staring at me curiously, I gulp down nervously again. "Well, I'm gonna sing you guys a few songs. And, I hope you enjoy it."
As I strap the guitar around me, I'm aware to the sound of familiar cheers from the crowd that says 'Go Ate Lia!', 'Pamangkin ko 'yan! (That's my niece!)', 'Yay Lia!' and 'Lia! Lia! Lia!' I flush, they're too supportive. But it's enough to build up my confidence.
I start off with one of my favorite songs that have ever been taught to me by my Kuya Kenny. [Play Natasha Bedingfield's version of Shake Up Christmas]
La-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la
Shake up the happiness
Wake up the happiness
Shake up the happiness
It's Christmas time
There's a story that I was told
And I wanna tell the world before I get too old
And don't remember it so let's December it
And reassemble it, oh yeah
Once upon a time in a town like this
A little girl made a great big wish
To fill the world full of happiness
And be on Santa's magic list
I mentally laugh at those lines. That was me, when I was young. Kuya Kenny and Kuya Jag would always see to it that I was a good girl or Santa wouldn't allow me on his nice list.
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho
It's Christmas time
At the same time miles away
A little boy made a wish that day
That the world would be OK
And Santa Claus would hear him say:
I got dreams and I got love
I got my feet on the ground
And family above
Can you send some happiness
With my best to the rest of the people
Of the East and the West and
I'm reminded of Bobby and the first Christmases we've spent together back at Cagayan before his parents best decide to migrate. Even as we spent Christmas on skype, he'd always tell me his wish of 'world peace' and his never ending wish for many good things. Bobby's just a sweet, humble and good-natured boy. He wants the best not only for himself, but for others as well.
Maybe every once in a while
Give my Grandma a reason to smile
'Tis the season of smile
It's cold but we'll be freezing in style
Let me meet a girl one day
That wants to spread some love this way
We can let our souls run free and
She can open some happiness with me
I chuckle lightly. That would be Lola Carrie; she will always be that huge bundle of joy who expresses her love to the world. She always wants what's good for us and shares what little happiness she can.
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
I know you're out there
I hear your reindeer
I see the snow where
Your boots have been
I'm gonna show them
So they will know then
Their love will grow
When they believe again.
And honestly? Even though I'm sixteen years of age, I'll always be a firm believer of Santa Clause. He's that one fat reminder of why I even bother Christmas. I love Christmas.
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
Before I can even sing the chorus, the rest of the kids have beaten me to it. I gladly sing along with them, swaying my head side to side.
Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho
It's Christmas time
Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
(Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho)
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
(Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho)
Shake it up
Shake up the happiness
Wake it up
Wake up the happiness
(Ho-ho-ho Ho-ho-ho)
Come on y'all
It's Christmas time
La-la-la-la-la (giggle)
La-la-la-la-la
It's Christmas time
Everyone is applauding me, kids giving me cheers. I break into a grin of relief, both hands still on the guitar. I raise my head towards our table and find Principal North and VP Sandy clapping like crazy, Coach E gives me a grin with a thumbs-up, Miss Elina and Mister Black are clapping lightly, and Jack is...staring at me. From afar, his dark amber orbs are as evident as ever. He seems to enjoy it.
That reminds me...I turn to the guitar and start another song. A song that I heard off of him one time, it was just so him. [Play Winter Wonderland by anitsirhcmarie]
Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight,
We're happy tonight,
We're walking in a winter wonderland.
And gone away is the bluebird,
But here to stay is a new bird.
He sings a love song,
As we go along,
Walking in a winter wonderland.
In the meadow we can build a snowman
And pretend that he is Parson Brown
He'll say: Are you married?
We'll say: No man,
But you can do the job
When you're in town.
Later on, we'll conspire,
As we dream by the fire,
We'll face unafraid
All the plans that we've made,
We're walking in a winter wonderland.
When I finish it, Jack looks taken aback. And even from the stage, I can tell that there's a hint of pink spreading across his face. I grin and play a few more songs. And as I play, I note that almost every kid got out of their chair and starts to dance on the dance floor, even the adults joined in! The more I sang, the livelier people were being. VP Sandy was right; this is a great way to express myself.
On my last song, I decided to sing one of my latest favorite songs. Well, me and Jack's favorite songs actually. But anyway, "Okay guys, thanks so much for listening. It was fun, but I have to get back now." A few 'awws' were heard, I can't help but laugh. "It's alright. C'mon don't be sad now, I have one last song before we head off to the next part of the program. Sound good?" they all cheer excitedly, that was enough for me. Before I started, I looked up at Jack and did the one thing I never ever did to a guy – I winked at him. His face was absolutely priceless. [Play Shooting Star by Owl City, the acoustic version]
Close your tired eyes
Relax and then
Count from one to ten
And open them
All these heavy thoughts
Will try to weigh you down
But not this time
The moment I started, he quickly recognized the song and was burying his head on his hands, laughing at my antics.
Way up in the air
You're finally free
And you can stay up there
Right next to me
All this gravity
Will try to pull you down
But not this time
When the sun goes down and the lights burn out
Then it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light
'Cause it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Tonight
Wo-ah, Wo-ah, Wo-ah
Brighter than a shooting star
Shine no matter where you are
Tonight
Everyone is dancing again; even Jack got out from his chair to dance with his sister. The scene was so precious; he let her stand on his foot as they danced. Huh, never knew he was a dancer.
Gaze into my eyes when the fire starts
And fan the flames so hot
It melts our hearts
All the pouring rain
Will try to put it out
But not this time
Let your colors burn
And brightly burst
Into a million sparks
That all disperse
And illuminate a world
That'll try to bring you down
But not this time
When the sun goes down and the lights burn out
Then it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light
'Cause it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Tonight
Wo-ah, Wo-ah, Wo-ah
Brighter than a shooting star
Shine no matter where you are
Tonight
A thousand heartbeats beat in time
It makes this dark planet come alive
So when the lights flicker out tonight
You gotta shine
When the sun goes down and the lights burn out
Then it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light
'Cause it's time for you to shine
Brighter than a shooting star
So shine no matter where you are
Tonight
Wo-ah, Wo-ah, Wo-ah
Brighter than a shooting star
Shine no matter where you are
Tonight
After my little song numbers, I do a little curtsy to the crowd and quickly walk away. I hold unto the railings of the stairs before I have finally landed safely to the ground, I heave a heavy sigh of relief. My limbs are still shaking and I can feel them all the way up to the roots of my hair. I notice a huge figure moving my way, a shy smile creeping its way to my face. Principal North walks up to me in his Santa costume, a proud smile on his face. The man engulfs me into a quick hug, kisses both my cheeks and chuckles, saying something in Russian easily.
"Thanks Lia, that was beautiful your singing was!" he complimented, I fought the blush to creep upon my face.
"T-Thanks..." I mumble.
Watching Principal North walk towards the technician, I slowly make my way towards our table. Keeping what little attention I can. I've been congratulated and complimented as I make my way towards our table; I suddenly get the glimpse of what it's like to be famous. Haha. As I make way to our table, a lot of kids have come up to me to praise me and my singing. Some girls have complimented on how pretty I was, some said I looked like a fairy up on stage, some were asking me where did I learn to play the guitar and some were asking if I could teach them. Oops, bombarded with questions again. Eep!
Thankfully, a familiar hand slips into mine and leads me from them. I excuse myself and mutter a 'thanks' to my savior, Jack.
"Hey," he shrugs "just doing my job." I roll my eyes at him, seriously.
It's already past 9 and the party has just ended with the final event, the gift giving. Emma and I are holding hands as we chat over the fun event. As we sway our hands, I look back on what would have been if I had not taken up this offer. I'm so glad I decided to take up the opportunity, even if it was grueling at first.
So, a short summary of the gift-giving shall we? Before the certain event, the tall Christmas tree was suddenly moved towards the center of the gym. Principal North appears at the center with his 'elves' (distant relatives of his) and begins the program. Again, I am amazed at how all out they can be. As the gift-giving event was going on, I and Jack were at the table watching the kids exchanging gifts with the other. From my spot, I secretly laugh at Bobby awkwardly handing Emma, who had just gave Jamie's gift, his gift of which she takes wholeheartedly. When they had opened their gifts, Bobby received an art set from Jamie, Jamie got a set of science books from Emma, and Emma got a pair of new skates from Bobby. I and Bobby saved up for the skates, not that I'm telling Jack. Hmm...maybe? But because he's eyeing Bobby with wary eyes, I mentally remind myself to best tell Jack about it later.
As we're nearing the exit door, my legs suddenly gave away. I fall on my butt, hard. Alarmed, they all approach me. Baby Tooth flies above me, checking for any injuries.
"Lia, are you alright?" Emma asks worriedly, holding unto my shoulder for any injuries. From behind her, Jack is staring at me with worried eyes. It's as if he's being cautious about something.
I shake my head. "I'm not sure, my legs just suddenly gave away..." I mumble. A loud chirp catches our attention and we all turn to Baby Tooth who is on my right leg.
Miss Elina quickly runs to my aide and inspects. There are blisters on my both my ankles when Miss Elina takes away my heels one by one, I stretch my legs on the ground allowing my blood to circulate. Miss Elina looks worried and guilty; it worsens as she turns to me.
"I'm sorry Lia, this was all my fault. I should have known that you were uncomfortable with heels, but I insisted that you wear them because they looked good on you. And, because of that..." she trails off.
"It's alright Miss Elina, really. I don't blame you. The heels are a gift right? So I'll treasure them, even if it'll probably take forever to get used to. I'm keeping them. It's such a waste to throw away a good gift right?" I caught her smile a genuine smile, what a relief.
"If you wear good shoes, they'll take you to good places." She tells me.
"Pardon?"
She chuckles, "It's a French saying Lia. I and Haythem just thought of what we could give you when I had come across that saying. And I thought it was perfect. You're a good girl and you need good shoes that will take you to good places. You deserve them."
Wow, that means a lot.
I look up to Mister Black, who's gazing at me with hidden amusement.
"Thanks, I appreciate it really..."
They nod and stare at me.
"Lia," Jack calls. I turn to his direction and find that he has his back to me. "Get on."
I flush.
"Oi, oi, how 'bout I carry her home?" Coach E suggests, I sense some kind of teasing factor in his voice.
"No," Jack says simply but not making any motion to stand up, his back still facing me. "we're neighbors so it'll be easier."
'He does have a point' VP Sandy says, via notepad.
"And besides, we have to bring you home Bunny, you have an early flight remember?" Principal North says clearly, I hear Coach E gruff lightly.
"Ah fine, whatever ya say North."
"You're leaving?" I ask, still on the ground.
"A'yup, celebratin' my holidays back with my folks in Australia." He says proudly.
"Him and his boomeranging clan." Jack whispers to me, I giggle. He doesn't hear that part.
"Wait, so you're not taking us home?" I admonish. Oh wait, there's Tita Helen to bring us home.
"Hoy, don't you forget that I'm here missy." Tita Helen sputters, twirling the keys in one finger. I smile sheepishly.
We bid our goodbyes and I slowly climb into Jack's back, both my heels are on either of my hand. He suggested that he hold unto them, I give it to him and wrap my arms around his neck. Feeling an unexplainable warmth radiating between us as our clothes brush against the other, but I barely think that's the case. Tita Helen parked far, so we have to walk a long way. Jack and I trail behind Tita and the kids.
"I'm heavy aren't I?" I mumble.
He scoffs. "You just realized that?"
I pout. "Sorry."
Jack flinches almost immediately "No, I was just kidding. Sorry Lia."
"Hmm...Meanie."
He chuckles good-naturedly.
"Well, that's what you get for eating too much Li."
I flush beet red. "HEY! I was hungry!"
Jack turns his head to me, an eyebrow raised. "Oh? And must you eat that much?"
I stuck out my tongue at him "Yes, yes I must Snow."
"Why don't you get fat?"
Blank face. I bring my hand to pinch his cheek."OW!"
"Ever heard of metabolism?"
I then notice how squishy his face was, I start pinching his cheeks. "Chuuuubby, chubby, chubby Jack!" I sing in a childish tone.
"Hey! Knock it off!" he says, but he doesn't sound desperate. He sounds like he's enjoying it as I am.
"Make me." I challenge him, liking the feel of his cheeks against my fingers.
I was soon going to regret that, because soon enough, he stops walking and rapidly bends forward. His arms are spread to his side, causing me to slip.
"JACK!" I squeal, wrapping my arms around him like my life depended on him. He just laughs at me.
"Not so tough now are you Li?"
"JAAAAAAAAACK! I'm gonna fall!" I scream. Tita Helen and the kids are laughing at us from afar, how did they get there so fast? I almost fall. "JACK!"
Amazingly, he suddenly stands upright. His laughing still going on as I strive to catch my breathe, when our eyes meet, I pout at him. "That wasn't funny Jack."
"Hey, you wanted me to make you stop it." He says offhandedly.
"But you didn't have to do that; I could have broken your back."
"Tch, please. Someone as lightweight as you?"
"AHA! So I am lightweight!" I say triumphantly, he doesn't argue.
"Okay fine, you are lightweight. Happy?" His dark amber eyes roll.
"Yep." I suddenly remember something very important. As if he were reading my mind, he interjects and asks. "So did you like my crown I made you?"
The crown. It's still on my head, miraculously stuck on my head like glue.
"Yeah, I do. It's so cute. Thanks Jack." I feel his face go warm. "You're welcome."
"How long were you working on it?" I inquire; I wanted to get the truth outta him. It felt more accurate.
He thinks it over for a minute; we were almost nearing the car.
"About 2 weeks and a half?"
My eyes widen in shock. "W-Wow..." he says nothing "Why'd you make it for me?"
Again, he says nothing. And, his face is burning up. I bring myself closer and ask again.
"Why did you make it for me Jack?"
He stares into my hazel orbs, then to the crown on my head. It's so hard to read him sometimes.
"Because..." he starts.
"Because?" I repeated, my head brushing against his brown hair. It's soft.
"Because...I just figured that...that...it'll look good on you."
...
"You know, I could have just bought my own." My eyelids suddenly feel heavy; I will myself to fight the darkness from crawling in. I rest my chin on his shoulder, surely he won't mind.
Jack shakes his head. "Nah, that's one of the reasons why I made it, didn't want you to be spending or hunting for such, so I decided to make you one. It's made out of some recycled materials, a few items and some real flowers. I had Bobby to help me being that he's an artist and all. Plus, the guys were always going on how you'd make a perfect Snow Angel minus the wings. So...yeah, that explains it. That good enough for you Li?" he turns to ask.
I took in everything he had said, but had dozed off at the last sentence. "Li?" he asks amused, I just mumbled in reply.
Even when asleep, I could hear him chuckling lightly at me. He's saying something I barely hear as I completely doze off on his back. It's a wonder how we even got in the car and how I was sleeping the whole ride. But in the whole duration of our ride, it did feel unexplainably yet comfortingly warm.
When I woke up the next day, I was more than surprised to find that I was already in my bed, my feet felt fresher and better than yesterday, my face feels make-up free, and my jet black hair has been cleanly brushed. What's more surprising is the sight of my dress hanging from my desk, and when I look down, I can't help the yelp escaping my mouth. I'm dressed in one of my oversized shirts; it stops just by my mid-thighs.
Creepy.
A knock raps at my door, taking me by surprise that I jump in shock. Finding my voice, I call out that they can come in. I run my hand over my mane just to take over the facts at hand.
"Good morning Ling!" Mom calls, closing the door behind her as she walks towards my bed.
"M-Ma," I feign a small smile, she smiles back.
She sits beside me, looking at me head to toe. I fiddle with my thumbs, eyes not looking away from her. When she stares back, I notice that there is a certain gleam in her eyes that I didn't notice. They're so gentle and sincere. I miss the feeling of being stared at my mom. But then, she's being a bit awkward. I clear my throat politely.
"Anything wrong Ma?" I ask. She shakes her head and reaches out to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear.
"Oh, nothing Ling. I'm just…still in awe to know what a beautiful young lady you've become." She tells me, her voice strained as if she were struggling. "I have been away from you and your brothers for so long…"
I sigh. "Ma, please stop…that's a dead topic you're going to-"
"No listen, this is important!" she says almost immediately and angrily. I stop and stare; I had forgotten what my mom was like when she was mad. All tight-lipped, she heaves a heavy sigh before she continues. "Ling, I just want you to know that…even though me and your father were miles apart, that even when we had missed out so much in your lives, that even when we missed out on being the parents we could have been, t-that…" a tear escapes her eyes which takes me by surprise, I rush to her side and attempt to wipe her tear away, but she stops me and shakes her head. "Ling," she says, looking at me in the eye "I have been a horrible mother to you, I know I have. I left you at a very young age, an age where you needed me the most for love and guidance. I failed you, we failed you. And for that, I am truly sorry Ling…" she says, cupping my cheek with one hand and smiles despite her tears. I'm almost at the verge of tears myself, but they fall out anyway.
I've been waiting for a moment like this.
Without another word, I slowly wrap my arms around her and hold her tight. She starts to cry onto the crook of my neck, smothering me with things I've always wanted to hear from her.
This has been the weirdest, awkwardest yet most heart-warming morning ever.
After a while, my dad comes into my room without even knocking. Mom reprimands him lightly, much to my delight. It's amazing how two can be so casual and familiar with each other even after marriage. I watch them with fascination; they're almost like best friends instead of two married couple. It's almost funny.
Their 'argument' suddenly stops, and dad kneels before me with a crisp white box in hand. The box large, I'm left curious to know what is in it. Dad looks back at Mom, who in turn in watching us with high interest. They seem excited. Dad hands me the box, and I willingly take it and is about to open it when my dad stops me. I look up at him curiously.
"Open this after breakfast Ling; it will be much worth it. Trust me."
Begrudgingly, I comply putting the box on my bed and take a pair of shorts from my dresser before heading out to freshen up a bit before I went down to have breakfast with my family. For once, I finally feel my home being a true home. My pancakes have never tasted this good, chorizo has never tasted delicious and my hot chocolate has never been this addicting to drink. And I thank the heavens for that. I have a feeling that this is going to be a good day.
When I finish breakfast, I rush up my room for the gift mom and dad has for me. It's driving me crazy! I feel so giddy and excited for it. I forgot something important and rush back to my parents, giving each of them hugs and kisses before running off to my room. Bobby is hot on my trails, my excitement has infected him.
"I think they got you a brand new laptop, or, or, probably a collection of those books you've wanted! Or, or!" Bobby continues guessing as he props himself beside me in bed. I laugh at the countless things he's thought of my parents possibly buying me; I ruffle his hair and set the gift in my lap.
I let out a breathe and turn to Bobby, he's puffing his chest in excitement. Yep, that's the signal. I tear the ribbon and take the lid off; a paper drops as I do so. I curiously pick it up and read it aloud.
"Dear Lia Ellen Dela Rosa,
This is my thanks to all the fun stuff we've been through together. You've stuck up with me in good times and bad. Has been my best friend when I needed one and to others. Has always kept up with my childish means, and continually remains that poignant person Emma and I expect of you. Even if it was for a short while, you are something to us. So, to show you our thanks please come over to our place and bring this with you. We shall give you the time of our lives.
Your friendly neighbour,
Jackson Snow
P.S. Bring Bobby along ;)
P.P.S. - HAHA, that's funny
P.P.P.S. I also got something for you :3"
There is a look of shock in my face before it breaks into a huge grin. I bury the letter in my head and laugh at it, Bobby gives me an expectant look. "Can we go now Ate? Can we, can we, can we-"
"Yes we may Bobby, now go change and meet me outside okay?"
He nods and quickly runs off my room, the box remains on my lap. I had almost forgotten that it was there. Digging through the wrappers, I find a pair of brown ice skates. My eyes soften at the sight of it; I remember telling Jack how much I've always wanted to ice skate. I have never skated in my whole life. And I swore that the first thing that I would do when I get here was to ice skate. I never thought he'd do something like this, he's too much sometimes. But, a gift is a gift. I take them from the box and put them to the side of my bed and get up to dress.
I'm wearing a long sleeved grey undershirt, black shorts, warm stockings, an over-sized jacket, and my combat boots. The jacket lands just a few inches above the folded part of my shorts. It's thick, and warm. It's also not mine to begin with, but meh, no one would notice.
Once I'm all dressed, I pick up the skates and hurriedly walk out my room. Bobby is waiting for me in the living room, lively chatting with Lola Carrie about the day Jack has for me. Bobby is wearing his yellow sweater, brown vest, warm jeans tucked into his boots and a cap. Tita Helen, having notice my presence, retrieves her hand from my Tito and walks over to wrap a cream colored scarf around my cousin and hands him some mittens, then she walks over to me and wraps another cream colored scarf and gives me my fingerless gloves. Thanking her, she and my Tito remind me to have fun and be home early. I nod and call Bobby, announcing that we were leaving. He scuttles over to me and reaches for my hand, bidding goodbye to the adults, we were off to the Snow residence.
Upon setting foot on the said residence though, we were suddenly ambushed by snowball after snowball. Bobby and I screech and ran for cover, only to have more and more snowballs pelted our way. We manage to set up a snow fort in a nick of time, throwing snowballs aimlessly to our ambushers.
A snowball hits Bobby square in the face, knocking out his cap. To avenge him, I take a handful of snow and aim it at their fort. Successfully, I target well. The culprit of the ambush raises both hands, a pair of tiny hands following after. Jack walks out, all dressed in a white sweater, a brown poncho, dark skinny jeans and winter boots. His scruffy brown hair has spits of snow everywhere, I made a lucky shot. Emma follows after him, dressed in long sleeved brown dress, black stockings, caramel colored winter boots and bright red poncho. She runs towards me and engulfs me into a hug. I could have sworn Bobby was gawking and blushing at the sight of Emma.
"Good morning Lia!" she greets.
Seriously, this girl is too cute for her well-being. I greet her back with a light ruffle to her hair. "Good morning Emma~" After a while, she notices Bobby and runs over to greet him. The two are having a lively chat; I side step and watch them with keen curiosity. A crunching sound directing to me catches my attention and I turn to greet the brunette before me. He looks a bit unsure and shy of me, I raise a brow. "And good morning to you too Jackson,"
He grunts; I only knew that his real name was Jackson a few weeks ago. Coach E mentioned it to me while we were running an errand together, boy did Jack blush. He was practically a tomato from blushing too much! But I gotta admit, I like Jack better from Jackson. But anyway...
"So what do you have in store captain?" I ask with certain playfulness, trying to mimic his usual tone.
Jack opens his mouth, but closes it quickly at the sight of something. His dark amber eyes seem to glare at it.
And it hits me; this jacket was what he was glaring at. It was given to me by Gael when I left for the States. Said it was a remembrance. It was his jersey jacket. Gael was a basketball player, and a damn good one. Since jersey jackets were too mainstream back at CDO, their coach best went for the simple hoodie. The jacket was royal blue, the front of the jacket had the school's team logo of a knight and the words: CRUSADER. And at the back of the hoodie was the player's name and number: G. Vargas number 09.
"Jack," I call to shake him off his stupor. It works, and suddenly he's squirming in place, looking anywhere but my direction. This is starting to worry me. "Jack?" I call again a bit worried, walking towards him with my hands on either of the pockets.
He mumbles something I don't hear. "Hmm?" I ask, hazel eyes wide dawning into his.
He makes a sound and looks at me; thick brows knitted together, his cheeks a bit puffy and his dark amber eyes ablaze. He seems adamant. "T-That his j-jacket?"
"Uh, yes? Why do you ask?"
Jack's cheeks tinges into a deep scarlet, I can even see his ears turn red. But before I could ask if he was alright, he shifts back to his normal self. Much to my annoyance and relief.
"So what are we gonna do today you ask Lia Ellen?" Nod. "Comrades!" he calls, catching Bobby and Emma's attention. The two stop talking and curiously head towards us, standing stiffly like soldiers. "Alright, we're all here except for the Bennett's." My face falls; the Bennett's are off to Minnesota to celebrate their holidays with their relatives. Jamie had told us that last night. My mood worsened when I remembered that I didn't even say goodbye to Mr. And Mrs. Bennett, much more to Jamie and Sophie!
"...so, while they're still here, we can still bid them a safe trip and a happy holidays!" Jack says. I perk my head up, I wasn't listening, but I manage to hear the last part. "They're still here?!" Jack nods.
"Jack says that Jamie and his family's flight aren't until 10, and we have an hour left to say our goodbyes." Emma tells me.
"Weren't you listening Ate? He even told us that last night!" Bobby doubles.
Wait, Jamie did? How come I didn't- Oh yeah, I had slept the whole ride home and magically- Wait.
"Jack, you were the one who carried me the whole ride right?" I asked with mild curiosity. He snaps his head back at me, unable to form words out of his mouth. But after a while, he simply nods. "And were you the one who changed me out of my clothes?"
"WHAT? NO!" he says defensively, blushing beet red. My suspicion rises.
"Actually, Mom had Jack help her dress you Ate. You were such a heavy sleeper." Bobby turns in, saving Jack from my wild suspicion of him being more than a creep. I hear Jack sigh a breath of relief; I turn my head at him in doubt. "What? It's the truth!"
"I didn't even say anything." I say innocently. Whew, so Tita Helen was the one who had me changed with the help of Jack. But that means, I had slept on Jack the whole ride? All the blood suddenly rises to my face; I can feel the steam coming out from my ears.
"Are you okay Lia?"
"P-PEACHY!" I say nervously with a fake laugh. Everyone has their eyes on me; I feel a sweat drop moment coming on. But eventually, everyone passes it off.
"Alright then, now that we've cleared the air, how 'bout we make our way to the Bennett's?"
Jack and Tito Lito, who was surprisingly there when we had arrived, are helping Mister Bennett load the taxi with their luggage, leaving me to babysit the kids. Tita Helen is haplessly chatting with Miss Bennett about things I probably shouldn't worry about or put much interest to.
Jamie, who is sitting to my right, is talking animatedly to his two best friends, and Sophie is right on my lap. I play with her blonde hair a bit, before I notice her loose shoe laces. I offered to tie it up for her, but her refuses and turns to tie it herself. With much effort, Sophie manages to tie it in a matter of 30 seconds. I congratulate her with a kiss to her cheek.
"So do you think you'll really find Big Foot over there?" Bobby asks.
"I sure hope so, wouldn't that be so cool?!" Jamie exclaims.
Emma giggles "I'm sure that you'll only find Big Foot the same time you'll find Jack Frost nipping your nose Jamie." They laugh, and Jack, who had just finished with the load, turns up to me. He asks me why they were laughing.
"Jack Frost! Jack Frost!" Sophie cries on my lap, her blonde hair jumping along with her. Jack raises a brow, a smirk slowly making way to his face. "Jack Frost?" I shrug.
"Jack tells me he's real! And if you really believe in him, he'll show up!" Emma says to the boys, engaging them into a conversation about some winter spirit. The culprit or source of Emma's fantasies, of which is her older brother - Jack, raises his hands in defense.
"I wasn't even going to say anything!"
"Hey, it's better to be safe than sorry." He replies smoothly, earning a light punch in the arm from me.
Not that I have anything against mythical creatures or something, I find that Jack telling Emma about these kinds of things cute actually. When you're young, you're supposed to be bright, jubilant and imaginative. Nothing to hold you back. Yeah, we have to cover up the truth in science and stuff. But that's the point of being young; you're safe and sound from the harsh reality of life. Childhood is all about fun and games.
I realize that I have been watching him, playing with Sophie on my lap. He's being so natural with the four year old, much like an older brother, a fun-loving, protective, admirable older brother, much like my own brothers.
A wistful smile courses through my lips, consciously, I hold Sophie closer and tuck her under my chin. I have always admired older brothers, most especially when they have a caring side for their younger siblings. I wonder how I'd be as an older sister.
"Lia?" Jack's voice rings, his voice is near. Looking up, his forehead is brushing against mine and his dark amber orbs locking with mine. Sophie is oblivious to this and plays with my hood strings. We stay like that for a while, the rest of the world being highly oblivious to us both. From a different angle, it would have seemed like Jack is kissing me.
...Okay, where on earth did that come from?
The thought is disturbing, I mentally throw it away and clear my throat. "Y-Yes Jack?"
"...U-Uh...the-they're about to go now. You might want to hand Sophie back to her parents." He says softly, very softly. Absentmindedly, I nod and stand, but Sophie suddenly scrambles off of me and runs towards her mom. Her retreating form saddens me; I wouldn't be seeing her in a while.
All thoughts are suddenly gone the moment I stood up, Jack draws near me, very near me. I yelped when I had almost fallen back if not for Jack's quick reflexes. He grips my one shoulder, and the other is shoved to the wooden post behind me, steadying us both.
We're back to our previous situation, but this time, the kids have their eyes on us. My throat dries, making me hard to swallow. His proximity was as close as before, our noses almost brushing against each other. Dark amber eyes looking down at me with such guile and his hot breathe tickling my face. His proximity is distracting. The string of my hoodie catches my attention, I trace it and find that it was been tied up to one of the strings on Jack's poncho. Sneaky Sophie.
"Oh, how precious!" I hear Tita Helen squeal, instantly my cheeks burn with embarrassment.
"Tita, it's not what it looks like! Sophie tied up me and Jack!" I shout back at her. Jack flinches from the shrill sound of my voice. "Li, please don't forget that I'm in front of you and you might make my ears bleed."
I blush ten times darker, if that was even possible, and mumble an apology to him.
"Alright, don't move." Retrieving both his hands, he works his way to untie our strings. Carefully going through them like a jigsaw puzzle, slipping each out carefully its amazing how he can be someone so focused on the solution than the problem.
After we're free, the both of us don't look at each other in the eye. Boy has the situations between us seem to grow more and more awkward. But reality strikes me hard like lightning, they're leaving. But it's just for the holidays. I'm still gonna miss them.
We walk Jamie towards the taxi, saying over and over again how it wouldn't be the same without him. He repeatedly says it's just for the holidays, but he's gonna miss us too. Emma and Bobby engulf him into a huge hug, I bend down and hug him too, and he does the same to Jack. Sophie must have wanted a hug too, because she's running off towards us, first, hugging Emma, then to Bobby, and when it came to me, she kissed my cheek and wrapped her arms around my neck. It was a brief hug, and lastly, she goes over to hug Jack.
"Bye guys, have a safe trip!" Tita Helen says.
"Say 'hi' to Jack Frost and Big Foot for me!" I suddenly say, surprising Jack, Emma and Bobby.
CRUNCH.
For the fourth time, I landed on my butt unto the frozen lake. Ice skating sure is hard, but like as the saying goes 'You have to run before you can walk'. No wait, I'm pretty sure it's 'It takes baby steps to learn something'? Yeah, that's about it I think.
"Lia, are you alright?" Emma asks, skating over to me.
I blow a strand of hair away from my face. Gah, this is the fourth time already! How embarrassing. "My butt hurts..." I whine, struggling to stand on my feet.
Oh, quick story jump have I? Apologies.
It's been 7 hours since we bade the Bennett's goodbye, and after that, it's been a day filled with fun and games. We had lunch at the Snow's, Mr. And Mrs. Snow serving up heaping hot plates of spaghetti. Hmm, my favorite. And then after that, we had a movie marathon of every Robin William films they had. Mr. Snow apparently is a Robin Williams fan, as am I.
And after, here we were at the frozen lake a few miles from town. Thick blanket of snow surrounded the area, the trees having to stand tall made it look like this forest was a hidden fortress, the lake was frozen all over thanks to Mother Nature. The frozen lake seemed to be decorated in intricate fern-like frozen patterns, glimmering across the ground where the sun or the moon could deflect their light. But Jack argues that it was Jack Frost, I don't budge.
Silvers and shining ice crystals decorated this seemingly isolated yet innocent little winter wonderland. It was twilight, and Jack had told me that the best time to ice skate was at this time. Says it was a better way to be in touch with the season.
Flourish of tiny snowflakes poured down on us, like it was accentuating the place even more.
"C'mon Ate Lia, get up!" Bobby encourages.
I almost forgot that I was still on my butt. Well, this is embarrassing. Emma and Bobby are 7-years old, and can skate perfectly. And here I am, a 16-year old teenager, on my butt because she can't ice skate and is in sole need of someone to teach me. Oh wait, I'm not the only teenager, there's Jack.
I tried to stand, Emma and Bobby rush over to help me when two strong arms lift me up in a flash. I shrieked as I had almost toppled forward. Jack's laughter fills my ears.
"Sheesh, at least warn me Jack!" I elbow him, waddling awkwardly to turn towards him. His smirk, ever mischievous, etched on his face. "You could have given me a heart attack!"
"Oh quit your whining Li and just thank me for helping you up for the fourth time." He says with a smug, I roll my eyes at him.
Here I am slipping and wobbling like a hapless penguin, while Jack is skating gracefully and with ease. Elsewhere, Bobby and Emma are ice skating hand-in-hand, so free and whatnot. I tried to follow them, taking one step at a time, Jack silently observing me with mild amusement. My first step was a success, so far so good. But my second step caused me to bump against my foot and tumble forward.
Thankfully, Jack was there (as usual) to break my fall. I fall into his chest, his scent quickly lingering over me.
"That makes it five doesn't it?" I mumble against his chest. His chest rumbles with laughter, and very slowly, he takes me by both hands at an arm's length. He takes both my hands and uses one foot to part my legs, a perfect balance he says. He looks down at me and instructs me how it's done according to his dad.
"Okay, so one foot in front of the other-" he pushed off the ice slowly, bringing me forward but steady "and outwards with the other, like you're pushing off the ice." He stops and looks back at me. "Got it?" Nod. "Alright then, your turn."
I took one deep breath and gripped both his hands firmly, slowly doing what he had instructed me. To my surprise, I didn't fall. I grinned happily, Jack was elated. Slowly letting go of my hands, Jack ice skated a certain distance backwards. "Alright, skate to me."
Swallowing my fear, I took another step after another. I kept staring at my feet, like they were the most important thing in the world. "Don't look down Lia!" Emma encouraged me. I slowly raised my head and found her and Bobby on the side, watching me carefully. "You can do it Ate!" Bobby calls, giving me thumbs up.
And before I know it, I'm gracefully ice skating my way towards Jack. Soft laughter breaks out from my mouth, a myriad of emotions combusts from within me, I feel so alive and free.
"All right Lia!" he says once I've reached him, the smile on his face is priceless.
And he's staring down at me, proud, carefree and...Edgy? I'm not sure, but there's something by the way he looks that tells me he wants to tell me something. Something important, something big, something he's always wanted to tell me for a while.
"Lia, I-"
Just before he could say anything, I playfully shoved him off and skated away from him, laughing the whole way as I skated around the lake. Bobby and Emma looked at each other then at me before they went on to trail behind me.
Jack, who's frozen on the spot, takes a moment to take in what had just happen before a playful smirk stretches across his face. "So that's how you wanna play?"
"Yep!" You're gonna have to catch me first if you're going to tell me something Jack!
He skates towards me in a flash, but I easily slip away from him. Almost bumping into Emma and Bobby in the process, laughter breaks out from their mouth when Jack rushes over to me.
Night time was fast approaching, but we didn't care. We were having too much fun. Time flies when you're having fun.
Out of breathe, I stop skating away and stop into the middle of the lake. Bobby and Emma on either side of me, they too are out of breath. And Jack, who is gazing at me, slowly makes his way to ice skate to me. Seeing him approach, Bobby and Emma take this as a cue to scurry away as if they were mice. And as if they read the mood between us two.
"L-Lia..." he says in between breathes, closing near. "Y-Yes?" I ask when he's finally in front of me, a warm smile on my face.
Just as he's about to reach for my hand, a crack was heard not far from us. It sounded like it from a certain direction. Bobby and Emma come to both our minds.
Panic swivels between us as our heads instantly swung towards the direction of Bobby and Emma. Right beneath them is a crack of ice; the two of them try to remain calm. Bobby grips Emma's hand and tries to move, the crack only increases. Thinking fast, Emma used all her might and shoved Bobby in the direction of the edge of the lake where he landed on a deep pile of snow. The crack beneath her gradually begins to increase in size; her face corrupts into a face of fear.
"Emma!" Bobby and I say in unison.
Before I know it, Jack steadily skates his way towards her, trying his best to remain calm. Very slowly, he bends and takes off his ice skates, leaving him on his socks. Emma's breathing becomes erratic, fear consuming him.
"It's okay, it's okay, d-don't look down, just look at me..." Jack says, his voice trembling. Emma looks at him square in the eye, her light amber orbs gazing into his darker ones, body quivering in fear.
"Jack, I'm scared..." the sound of the ice cracks beneath her.
"Yeah, I know, I know-"he said with caution, inching closer but another crack forms. I gasp in shock, he turns back at me then back at Emma "But you're gonna be alright, you're not gonna fall in. Uh, we're gonna have a little fun instead!"
FUN? Of all situations? "Jack what are you thinking?!"
"No we're not!" Emma panics; Bobby is tongue-tied and stares at the two siblings in fear.
"Would I trick you?"
"Yes! You always play tricks!" Emma and I say in unison. But he chuckles lightly, like the situation isn't the least bit at the verge of life and death.
"Oh, alright. But n-not this time, I promise, I promise you, y-you're gonna be fine. You have to believe in me." This takes all of us aback, a small flicker of hope beaming. I clasp my hands together as I watch, silently praying.
"You wanna play a game? We're gonna play hopscotch instead, like we play everyday. I-it's as easy as one-"he winces at the sight of the crack, but remembering Emma; he takes one foot away and balances on his foot goofily. "Whoa!" the three of us laughs, "Two," and then he cross steps on non-thin ice "and three! Alright," leaning to his side, he takes a gnarled stick I never knew existed and stretches it out to his sister "now it's your turn, one," Emma takes one step, gasping in shock at the growing crack "that's it, that's it. Two," she's slipping and sliding, the stick barely getting to her "three!" Using the gnarled end of the stick, he grabs her by the waist and hauls her towards me; the ice caused him to slip which also allowed him to haul Emma. Their positions switch and I easily catch her in my arms, she laughs in relief, Bobby too, then me, and then finally, Jack.
He sighs in relief and starts walking towards us, a goofy smile on his face.
CRACK.
But suddenly, the ice beneath him gives away and I watch in horror as he falls into the icy cold water, Emma and Bobby starts to scream his name. I couldn't do anything but stare shell-shocked and afraid.
My mind is in haywire.
What do I do, what do I do?
Quickly turning to the kids, Emma, who starts crying, and Bobby, who is still staring at hole in shock, I tell them to run back to town and call for help. It doesn't take them less than a second to respond and do as I say. I watch Bobby running over to grab Emma and run out the forest, their retreating form running back into the forest before I direct mine back to the opening.
My heart beats loudly against my chest, cold sweat running down my skin as I stare at the fracture of ice before me.
The water…it's...taunting me.
Shakily, I take one step forward, but a flash of that brings me back. I take another, and I can feel my legs turn into jell-o.
"J-Jack…" I croak.
Looking at the ice cold water, I feel the bile rising to my throat. Fear gripping over my senses from head to toe.
You're not gonna let him die are you? My subconscious tells me.
"J-Jack…" I croak again, throat dry.
I find myself staring up at the moon the same way I did back then – consumed by fear and shrill hatred for my helplessness and for fate to have its way and play with life. Seeking some sort of miracle to happen, or an assuring litany that he'll be okay. I hated this, there was no way out.
I quickly shed off my clothes and my ice skates, leaving me in my bra and shorts. I approach the opening closer, cracks slowly slithered towards me, like they were inviting me to come closer to freezing water, I take one deep hasty breathe. Collecting my thoughts, I will myself to fight away my fears.
Jack needs me now, I can't just leave him.
Without a second thought, I dived into the freezing water. Everything stung the moment I had dived in, but I still managed to hold my breath. I felt a million needles prickling me, taking my nerves to the depths.
It was so cold. My body instantly went numb from the freezing subzero water. But I was used to cold waters, just not this cold. Where the biting cold unnerved me to the core, this kind of cold was not what I was used to.
Jack's unconscious and sinking body turns up in plain sight, I quickly swim towards him. But as I approached him, my body flinches as though it had been back then. The currents from back then, speeding water washing over me, coursed through my skin, the darkness, slowly clouding over.
Li! Jack's voice rings into my head like an epiphany.
Diving deeper, I reach for Jack.
A vision blurs my thoughts, of me reaching for Kuya Kenny with desperation, similar to what I'm doing. I blink it away, the water stinging my eyes. Having successfully taking Jack, I then turn around and swim towards the opening. Jack was a bit heavy, but I didn't let it become a problem.
My scars felt reopened upon contact with water, my heart was beating fast. Suddenly, my legs feel heavy and completely numb. I can't tell whether I was kicking the water or not.
That's when the terror sets in.
I was so close to the opening, we were about to get out.
But I'm slowly slipping away from the light, the darkness inviting me.
No! I can't let this happen again!
With a newfound courage and determination, I push Jack before me and out the hole. His torso out first, I slowly come afterwards. Coughing, I fight to take in breathes of precious air, all while I'm struggling to get up from the water with a running chill through my veins.
"D-Damn, i-it's c-c-c-cold!" my bare skin is quivering against the cold but is quickly forgotten. My attention turns to the unconscious body of Jack; I throw my dry clothes on him and drag him to the corner of the lake, away from the thin ice.
He wasn't breathing. Panic rises.
"Jack!"
I turn to check his vitals, his heart isn't beating. Panic shrivels through my eardrums; my heart is beating so fast that it's enough to burst out of my chest. Panic is already at the peak of my system.
Kuya Jag? Kuya Kenny?
Suddenly, I can't breathe. No, this was not happening again, No! No, no, no, no-
KUYA JAG! KUYA KENNY!
Putting my dry clothes to the side, I start to pump Jack's chest with both hands.
"…7…8…9…10!"
Pinching his nose with one hand, and then holding unto the back of his neck, I bring my mouth over to his and breathe into him. Breathing in life to him, I was almost breathless. Afterwards, I quickly clasp my hands over to his chest and pump again.
Jack is still unconscious. I repeat this several times, not noticing the scalding hot tears streaming down my face. He looks pale, so horribly, horribly pale.
"No, no, no, stay with me…Jack, stay with me!" I say, almost pounding his chest with my fists.
Memories we've shared together flashes through my eyes – from the first time we met, my first week in school with him, our volleyball game, the stargazing, my first snow day, the phone call, the Christmas party – they were the greatest moments of my life. And I owe it all to him, Jack. I can't afford to lose him, I just can't!
"Jack…Jack…Jack…Jack…" every time I say his name is out of desperation, a litany. He's too young to die! He can't die! He still has so much to live for!
On my fifth attempt, he still refuses to wake up. I can hardly believe it. I surrender and bury my head on his chest, breaking into a sob.
"Jack…" I whimper.
My heart felt broken, dread crawling over me.
It's suffocating.
Just when all hope seemed lost, his body tenses. Jack's chest suddenly moves. My breathe hitches in my throat, I quickly rise up and stare at him. He coughs up water and struggles to catch his breathe. Slowly, his eyes open so does his mouth. He takes in mouthfuls of air while his eyes start darting everywhere, taking in his environment before he sets those dark amber orbs to my hazel ones. The chilliness of the night is long forgotten. I forgot that I was only clad in my bra and shorts, my long black hair is wet as it sticks everywhere to my skin.
He's awake.
He's alive.
Jack's alive!
Dark amber eyes lock into my hazel ones, the intensity of his eyes seem to look straight into my soul.
We stare at each other for a fraction of time, foreign to our surroundings and just holding each other's gaze. My jaw trembles unsightly, my tears at the brim of spilling. Both my hands shoot up to my mouth, keeping a sob to break out from my lips.
We just stare like that, like an eternity had surpassed us.
For what seemed like forever, Jack's mouth slowly parts open a weak smile forming.
"Aww, you do care…" he says softly and jokingly, as if to lighten the mood.
Something within me snaps.
Acting on impulse, I jab him hard on the gut. He howls in pain.
"Y-You! Y-Y…" I say through gritted teeth, keeping my clenched fists to my side. One punch was enough.
"L-Li…" Jack heaves, slowly trying to sit up. He's trying to calm me down. Hell, calm me down? He finally wakes up and sees my distraught state as says 'I do care?' I do care?
"Just who do you think you are!? Huh?! I'm worried sick here, barely clothed and freezing my ass off about you, and when you finally come to your senses all you can say 'I do care?' 'I do care!?' What do you take me for? A selfish bitch? A heartless, careless, soulless witch? Huh? Is that what you think? Yawa ha, YAWA! Piste, Yawaa ka! Mas sobra siguro ka sa yawa pistolang yawaa ka! WALA SIGURO KA KABALO NA MURAG MABUANG NA KO? HA? Hell, don't you know how worried I was? How I had to pull together my shit just to think of a way through this? How I debated going in or not? Huh? Huh?! DO YOU DAMN KNOW HOW I FEEL RIGHT NOW JACK SNOW?! DO YOU?!" I scream angrily to him in one breath. Heaving angrily with glowering eyes, my clenched fists shake by my sides, nails digging deep into my skin.
Jack's eyes widen in shock. Realization strikes him hard like a flash of lightning. "Y-You had to dive in and save me?"
I don't reply the plain obvious; I stare blankly at him with sobering eyes. The hot tears fall uncontrollably down my face, his face falls at the sight of this. I know him too much not to know that it affects him to see me in this state.
I had fought the urge to strike him, punch him, pummel him, or hurt him in any way I can. He's already injured enough. Instead, I bring my hands to my hair and fist them, revealing how frustrated I am, I bite down a whimper.
Just as Jack reaches out to touch me, I had quickly turned away from him and buried my head on my folded arms. My fists clenched once again, my nails sinking deeper into my skin while my whole body was shaking from anger and fear. I'm still bare and cold, but I don't care.
"Lia?" Jack calls out to me, but I don't say anything in return. I begin to sob.
This idiot…
But to be exactly and perfectly honest, I don't really know what I'm crying about. Was it because I was scared senseless of Jack? Or the mere fact that I had finally managed to swim after that, but awakened past scars in the process? I don't really know. I'm just so confused right now.
How is it that despite the depravity sadness, the aching longing and the sheer vulnerability, can Jack see right through me? How is it that he can bring the utmost worst and good in me? How is it that he came into my life like a burst of sunshine? How is he even able to push the right buttons out of me?
I sob even harder, and it feels cathartic.
I sob harder the more I recall of what could have been, it's painful, it's killing me. I don't want this thing to ever happen again.
I already lost my brothers that way and Jack would have ended up that way as well. I don't want that. I never want that.
I failed to notice how completely numb I am from my toes up until the roots of my hair. There was so much coldness everywhere – my emotions, the obvious winter, and my breaking spirit.
Then, something warm is slipped unto me, driving away the biting cold. I stop crying. Jack gently grabs me by the shoulders and twists me to him. There is a hint of sadness and guilt in his eyes. My tears are still streaming uncontrollably down my face.
For a moment, our gazes lock intensely, assessing the fact that we are indeed in front of each other and unharmed. Well, not physically speaking. He lifts his hand from my right shoulder and turns to wipe away my tears with his thumb. Surprisingly, I don't flinch away from his touch, just stuck staring at him. He then caresses my face, his stare ever desolate and guilt-ridden.
Slowly, he cups my face and leans in, breaking our proximity once again. But this time, he isn't shy or hesitant. And this time, the gap between us finally closes.
Our lips molded together perfectly, like they were missing puzzle pieces. It doesn't take me a while to realize the contact of our lips; I stare at him in shock before fluttering my eyes shut. I kiss him back. His lips are soft and he tastes of hot chocolate and marshmallows. It's so Jack Snow. Subconsciously, I reach out and grip his shirt, drawing him closer to me. He kisses me harder; I could almost feel the sadness and desperation against his lips. The biting cold was long forgotten; the heat of this moment seemed to be enough to keep us both warm.
After a while, we pulled away when the need for oxygen burned in our lungs. Our eyes are glossy with newfound confidence we have for each other. He brushes my wet bangs away from my face and plants a sweet kiss on my forehead. My eyes flutter shut from the contact.
I carefully look up at him for the umpteenth time, taking in his presence – a sad smile on his beautiful face as he looks at me lovingly - before I start tearing up again, much to Jack's alarm. I launch myself at him wrapping my arms around him, sobbing uncontrollably on the crook of his neck.
Words weren't needed to describe how glad I was that Jack was alright. That he was here, with me, in my arms.
Jack's here, he's safe, he's alive. The mantra repeats in my head. I can't stop crying.
He too wraps his arms around me, securing me, bringing me closer to him. Dipping his head into my neck and takes in my scent, he plants a kiss there. I hug him tighter and sob harder.
"I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry for worrying you Lia, I really am. I'm so sorry."
Snow residence
Crouching over at the fireplace, fresh from a hot bath, clad in warm clothes borrowed off from Jack, a thick blanket around me and a cup of hot chocolate in hand, I absentmindedly stared at the fire. Its bright yellow and orange flames danced, almost angrily clashing against the other. The warmth radiating off was threatening me instead of comforting me, like how it did back then. The bright glow gave me some sort of afterglow, revealing my sober expression. Hazel eyes, blank and lifeless as it stares at the burning inferno. The redness of the flames almost reminded me of...blood.
Blood.
The blanket fell off my shoulders, I didn't notice.
After saving Jack from drowning, Bobby and Emma came back with Martha, their mom, Luke, their dad, Tita Helen, Tito Lito and Lola Carrie. Mister Snow, being a medical profession, inspected his son's condition before going over to check mine. Tita Helen, Tito Lito and Lola Carrie could only do much as to stare at me in shock. On my lower back were four horrible jagged scars that seemed reopened. Mister Snow quickly attended to me, stating that my body has developed aqua phobia and the contact my skin made unto the water had somehow done a physical and emotional effect on me. After that, Tito Lito comes over to take me from Jack's arms and brings me to the Snow residence where I was to be attended and cared of. As instructed by Mister Snow, Tita Helen and Lola Carrie bathed me in hot water; there were tears in their eyes, probably from bearing witness from those horrible scars. They held me like a child, cradling me in their arms. Jack had offered to lend me a few of his clothes. After my bath, I just wanted to be alone. I was quickly left alone with my thoughts. And so, I found myself here in their living room, staring blankly at the burning cinders. Not sure what to feel, to say, or do. My parents were already informed of what happened, and are currently on their way home.
Absentmindedly, I reached for one of the scars behind me, flinching as I brushed my fingers on them. I could still feel the pain from back then, my tears started to well up. Images flashed before my eyes, screams and roaring thunder ringing in my ears.
Discreetly, someone had taken the fallen blanket and draped it back over my shoulders. With mild curiosity, I turn over and find Jack's soft, yet sobering dark amber orbs, a cheerless smile on his face. "Hey,"
"Hey..." I whisper back weakly.
His face drops, those dark amber eyes of his tell me of his sadness and guilt he washed down on me. Propping himself behind me, he wraps his arms around my waist, drawing me close so as I'm sitting on his lap, and rests his chin on my shoulder as we gaze at the fire. I unconsciously lean against him. He doesn't say anything, just stays by my side and repeatedly kisses my hair when he has the chance.
After a while, he asks. "Are you still mad at me?" I quickly turn to him, uncertainty written all over my face. "I don't know…" I whisper truthfully, though I barely think they were audible but Jack hears it. He sighs.
"How are you?"
"Fine that you're alright, but, somewhat...dead?"
"Dead?" I nod; his hold on my waist tightens.
I'm quiet for a while, he doesn't say anything. He lets me use the silence. Everyone is scattered in the house doing something – Tita Helen, Miss Snow and Lola Carrie are preparing a heaping hot healthy dinner, Tito Lito and Mister Snow chatting lightly in the study, while Bobby and Emma are tucked in, waiting for dinner to be served. We have the living room to ourselves, just the two of us.
Funny, I never really thought of us being this familiar and comfortable with each other. Even from day one, it's always been like this. He's been there for me, through thick and thin, despite my pent-up behavior, he was there for me, has always been.
"A year ago..." I start talking, taking Jack by surprise. "My town was hit by typhoon Sendong, our dormitory was far from the river by a mile, but miraculously, the water had reached us. It was midnight, everyone was asleep. Suddenly, someone was banging our door; the three of us woke up and were surprised that our room was completely covered in water. When Kuya Jag opened the door, the landlord was telling us to evacuate immediately and climb to the roof where we would be safe. Kuya Kenny helped me out, while Kuya Jag helped the landlord alarm the other sleeping tenants."
The memories remain fresh as I narrated, Jack wanted me to stop, but I continued "The water was increasing fast, me and Kuya Kenny were practically trapped in a corner. The rapid water hauled us to the window, knocking Kuya Kenny out. He wrapped himself around me to cushion me from the window. He was bleeding fast, and the torrent was so cold and incredibly fast. And when we got out, the sight was devastating – the rain poured endlessly, thunder boomed angrily, lighting clashing everywhere striking a tree and debris. I was almost hit by lightning multiple times. And since the water was really fast, it was getting harder to swim with Kuya Kenny in hand. But I fought against the torrent, driven only by my sheer will that I and my brothers would surpass this. I was already in the middle of our now completely submerged street, everyone was crying for help, calling for a miracle, and it was dark. I had almost given up hope."
My throat constricts, my body shaking uncontrollably "But then, I heard Kuya Jag from afar. A fresh gash on his left eye, but alive nonetheless. He was at our neighbor's roof with the landlord and a few of our friends; I began to swim towards him. I had to bear holding Kuya Kenny, who was twice my weight, and the rapid waters. Just as I had reached Kuya Jag, lightning struck and the roof they were in gave away. I had let go of Kuya Kenny. The water carried me away from my brothers, I-I-I-"by now, I had started to tear up again; I was shaking uncontrollably "I remembered screaming for them, screaming until I thought my throat bled. I remembered, trying to swim back for them, to save them. B-But, my head collided with something heavy and I passed out." I allowed the tears to stream down my face; this was harder than I had expected "When I woke up, I had found myself on Opol (like five miles or more), washed up with a few more bodies beside me. A rescuer had found me and led me to the evacuation center, the trip downtown was heartbreaking. My hometown, the City of Golden Friendship, had been reduced to a city broken and muddy, everywhere I went, there were people crying and covered in mud. Their belongings were in the middle of the road, people were starving. And at the evacuation center, there were piles of unknown bodies. And one of those bodies were of my Kuya Kenny and Kuya Jag, they were dead." Jack stilled, turning his head to watch me "And you know what's worst? K-Kuya Jag, h-h-he held unto something...something of mine, something that he and Kuya Kenny had bought for me – an anklet." I stared at my anklet; it was made of some seashells and fine wood. Inscribed on the woods is 'To our little sister – Lia Ellen, she is our gift of the heart, the friend of our spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.' "Stupid right? Just for me? They'd risk something so stupid and materialistic for me?"
My wall broke, and my tears started to flow again. I cried hard, so hard that I wanted to rip my heart out. Jack took me by my shoulders and engulfed me into a hug, allowing me to cry into his neck. But Jack wouldn't let me go; only held unto me tighter. Allowed me to pent up my pain and sadness that I've been trying to keep and hide for so long. To share that one event in my life that continually haunts me and broke me to the core.
Little did I know that my parents, who had just arrived, heard the whole thing. My mother held unto my father and cried, she cried my sadness and my pain. Cried that she wasn't there, cried of the tale of how her two sons died, and cried because, even though I had saved Jack, the wounds and scars from the past wouldn't seem to fade away.
Christmas day...
It was the night of Christmas, and Miss Elina, now engaged to Mister Black and the one who invited us to spend Christmas at their place, was running about piling up the presents under their whopping 11-foot Christmas tree. VP Sandy is playing along with Bobby and Emma; Mister Black's stuck having a conversation with Lola Carrie and Miss Elina's giddy mother, Rashmi, and Miss Snow, Tito Lito and Dad are helping Miss Elina set up the presents, Mom, Tita Helen, Mister Snow and Miss Elina's father, Haroom, are in the kitchen preparing dinner.
And as for me?
I'm simply watching them from the balcony, smiling a small jovial smile as I watch them. I'm wearing a simple white baby doll dress, with three buttons on the chest portion, the dress stops by my knees, dark blue and light blue striped cardigan, black stockings, simple flats and my jet black hair kept in place by a white headband.
It's no surprise that Miss Elina's, Jack's, Mister Black's and my families have good relations. Of course, it's probably because my heritage has a certain habit of getting into people's good side after a few interactions. Apparently, Mister Black's parents, fresh from good old England, wouldn't be here until a week before the wedding. A wedding that is set on Valentine's Day, the day when they first met. I sigh dreamily.
A while later, someone blows against my ear, I yelp in surprise. Jack's laughter following afterwards, I frown at him. "That wasn't funny Jack."
Jack, who is wearing a light blue button down, dark grey vest, dark jeans and red converse, laughs lightly as he wraps his arms around me.
"Yes it was, you sounded so cute~" My face flushes hard, I look away from him. He in turn, pinches my reddening cheek. "You're so cute Lia." I only flush harder.
A chirp was heard; we look up and find one of Baby Tooth's many siblings. Baby Tooth appears not long after, I giggle at the sight of her other siblings ogling at me and Jack. "Hi Baby Tooth," I reach out and nudge her lightly. She flutters up in front of us and points as something above us – mistletoe.
My face reddens, Jack's face scrunches into a look of shyness and mischief. Without another word, he leans down and pecks my lips lightly. It was a quick kiss, not that I'm complaining. Besides, it would be awkward kissing with him with everyone around. "I'm saving you for later." He whispers into my ear playfully, I feel my ears burning. I only whack him in return.
"LIA, JACK, GET DOWN HERE! IT'S ALMOST GIFT-GIVING TIME!" announces Bobby and Emma.
"We're coming!" Jack calls back. He turns to me and offers an arm, like always, ensuring that I make it downstairs safe and sound, even when I'm not in heels. "Madam?"
I chuckle heartily, playing along "Why thank you good sir!"
As the night grows, the more the sound of ripping paper echoes throughout the whole house. I've had a fair amount of gifts from my Tito and Tita, Lola Carrie, Mister and Miss Snow, Miss Elina's parents and already from Mister Black and soon-to-be Miss Black, my parents and Jack. I thank him for the ice skates and he turns to me with a light, playful frown.
"Who says that was my only gift?"
"Huh?"
Without catching anyone's attention, he grabs my hand and drags me away. What surprises me was the sight of VP Sandy bidding Jack a 'good luck' with thumbs up. Jack leads me through the hallways and numerous flights of stairs, until we've reached our destination – the balcony. It's the widest balcony I have ever set my eyes upon.
There is a wide look of excitement in his face as he opens the glass door with one hand; he leads me outside where the soft whipping scent of spicy pine greets me.
It's cold. But not that cold, just a cool breeze of winter air coursing through us.
The view is endless, stretching over to give me a sight of the winter wonderland surrounding the place.
But what really leaves me breathless is the night sky before us, the moon and the stars felt nearer. The dark blanket of the night seems wider out here than it was back at home, the stars shines brightly above me like they are glad to see me.
Sometime later, I hear the sound of a guitar playing behind me. Curiously, I turn to find Jack, with a guitar in hand, singing to me one of my most favorite songs. [Play 'Yellow' by Coldplay] My mouth instantly dries hazel eyes widen in shock at the sight of him. I never knew he could sing or play the guitar, this boy is of many surprises. His eyes never leave mine; they entrance me with every word that comes out of his mouth. When he says the chorus, his voice is deep in emotion and I feel how true his words are. I'm grinning like an idiot, grinning madly that it hurts.
Setting the guitar on the rail, he instructs me to close my eyes. I raise an eyebrow; he chuckles at my action and kisses my risen brow. "Just close, it's a surprise."
Complying, I shut my eyes. I hear something rummaging through his pants followed by some twinkling. He heaves a heavy breathe of anxiety, I think. I feel his arms around me and something light and cold on my chest, but I don't open my eyes yet. Clasping the object behind my neck, he takes a step back and tells me to open my eyes. I immediately look down at my gift, smiling knowingly at what he had given me.
It's a silver necklace, with a small snowflake pendant, assorted with tiny blue roses in the middle and on each edges of the snowflake. It was simple, yet meaningful.
I look up at him, he looks ready and nervous. It so unlike him, usually, he'd be smirking and poking fun at me. But, now, Jack's eyes are searching into mine. His dark amber orbs shining brightly when he had seemed to find the courage.
He walks over to me and traps me into a hug, his mouth in my ear as she says the words he's been dying to say to me. "Lia, I love you. I have for a long time now."
I feel my heart bursting against my chest. Jack loves me? His words from last autumn ring in my head.
T-There's this girl that I really like who is just; she's just...just...whoa.
I feel the tears well up in my eyes; I laugh at Jack and hold him close. "So it was me the whole time?"
He only chuckles, at me. Slowly, my tears start to fall and he leans over to kiss them away. "You're so dense Li."
I mean, she's really spunky yet completely dense time to time, but like, the most compassionate and selfless girl I've ever met apart from Emma.
"Shut up!" I playfully hit him light giggles escaping our mouths, his arms still around me "Really, what do you see in me Jack?" I ask, wrapping my arms around his neck as we start swaying to an unknown beat. Words weren't exactly needed to know what he saw in me, it's already evident from the way he looks at me. I feel his heart racing against his chest, similar to my own. "I think I love you too, Jack." The words escape my mouth before I know it. I hear him intake a breathe but automatically recovers, kissing my hair and tightens his hold around me.
I know she's really preoccupied with a lot of things in life.
"Lia?"
"Hmm?"
But, I just wish that...she never goes away, ever.
"Will you be my girlfriend?"
I pull back from his embrace and stare at his dark amber orbs, looking doubtful and thoughtful. This gives him some time to think before he looks dejected at the thought that I was going to say 'no', seriously Jack.
Instead of answering him, I pull his head down and kiss him. Kissing him sweetly and softly, I smile at his momentary shock before he kisses back. He wraps his arms around me, returning my kiss. Our lips dancing together in a sweet dance that only we know. When the need for air became dire, I pulled away and rested my forehead against his, a shy smile on my face. His dark amber eyes are wide and expectant of the gleam my hazel eyes are showing.
"Yes, I'll be your girlfriend Jack, and Merry Christmas."
Having heard of my response, Jack sighs in relief does a double before hugging me tight as he swings me around. A laugh breaking from his mouth, it's infectious that it causes me to laugh along with him. Setting me on my feet, a new music plays. [Play 'Dancing in the Moonlight' by Toploader]
I recognize this as another of my favorite songs from one of my favorite films. As soon as the lyrics come in, mirth of childish memories flood in. It has always been in my wish list to be dance under the moonlight to this song ever since I watched 'A Walk Remember'.
But right now, I'm not so sure if I want to anymore. I bury my head in my hands as the laughter breaks from my face; I try to scuttle away from him. But he catches me by the waist and takes both my hands; he places one hand on his shoulder, and the other on our shoulder level.
We danced to the beat of the music with silly grins on our faces. But we didn't care, we were young and in love. He twirled me around, caught me in his arms and swayed to the beat of the music.
So in the end, moving to Burgess hadn't been so bad after all.
Stereotypical thoughts are dead. Everything was not what I had seemed or perceived it after all.
After all, I did patch up with my parents, cleared up my past, rediscovered my skills, and most importantly, met the guy who changed my life.
For four seasons, he cured me of my homesickness and gave Burgess a new meaning to me, it's my new home.
For four seasons, he was by my side.
For four seasons, he healed my wounds I never knew mattered.
For four seasons, he taught me the beauty of life.
And by the end of the season, I became his girlfriend.
I'm Jack Snow's girlfriend.
And I can't wait to spend another Four Seasons with him.
DISCLAIMER: I do not own any of the songs, movies, and other things written above. They belong to their rightful owners. Similar names and incidents written here are highly coincidental and for fiction purposes only.
*- I am not translating that, Lia is heavily cussing at Jack in native Visayan. Even if you research it, there will be multiple meanings that would appear in the net. Plus, this is to shield your vocabulary from anger management issues angry visayan girl style.
The Sendong scene. Actually I was never a victim of typhoon Sendong, where I live, the flood here is mild. But, when Sendong came, it broke me apart. It's such a painful and saddening sight to have gone to town seeing it in shambles. Many lost their lives, many were missing, and it was almost the Great Depression. The scene I wrote up was actually based from my classmate, but his family was alright. I'm sorry if how I had written Jag and Kenny's death sounded horrid and all.
Fun Facts:
The kissing scene? I kinda followed the concept of Asuna and Kirito's from SAO. Haven't watched it? WHO ARE YOU!? HAHAHA, kidding kidding. Just watch it, YOUR FEELINGS SHALL BE SHAT.
Yeah, I borrowed a few scenes from the movie they were inevitable and valid.
And Yes, those are Toothiana's parent's names according to the book. She's part Indian I think.
I ttly ship Pitch x Tooth! WEEEEEEEEEE!
There was a scene I wanted to write, but decided to decline. It was depressing.
Lia was originally supposed to be tsundere, but then turned it down. That's WAAAAAAAAAAAAY too mainstream.
And finally, after 2 glorious ROTG filled month, 8 hours of writing this, and half the patience to continue, I have flinally finished this! HURRAH! If it seems a bit fast paced, I'm sorry. Writer's block got me, but I kinda fought it with my sheer determination to finish this. Thanks so much for your reviews, faves and follows. I appreciate it. Thanks also for accepting Lia guys! Thanks also for understanding so much about her and all. Again, thank you so much and have a good day.
THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF MY WRITING HIATUS. DUMDUMDUUUUUUUUUUUM.