Chapter 3
David's P.O.V.
Flashback 1 Year Ago
"So, you tell me your mom only cares about her image," I say. Eric gives me a smug smile, so elaborate and concise that the dimples in his cheeks are clearly seen; they look similar to a moon's crescent. "David, you have not met my mom," Eric says and drinks the apple cider from his glass. I look at him; acknowledging that he's hiding something. "Eric, I think we have similar moms. I don't think she only cares about her image but it's so important to her. Take for instance, she's garnished a reputation as a morally corrupt and evil business woman. Her sales go down, her company goes down, and she goes down. An impression is everything," I say with an inconceivable smile. He looks down at the imported rug his mother bought a month ago. "Things aren't always as they seem," he says. I think about what he means for a moment and then I speak my mind.
"I usually try to understand someone solely based on what they say. I try to come up with who they are, what they like, and what they dream of as a person. However, I can't exactly describe you. You're interesting, drawing, and you speak eloquently. I can't sum you up into words." I say smiling at him. It's a genuine smile. It's real because when I rehearse one I think about the company, the people, or the company I'm trying to impress." Eric laughs a little and drinks the whole glass. "Are you trying to impress me with your smart talk?" he asks. I laugh. "Yes," I admit. I spot Rhea with the corner of my eye. She's taking a picture with her friends. I had met them but subtly. I feel distant. The feeling of not belong; I'll head to Mexico again soon. Only carrying the memories of New York in my head.
My mom chats with Rhea's mom. For a moment my eyes meet my mother's. I know what that look means. It signifies that we have to leave soon. "I think my departure is soon," I tell Eric. His face is now upset. "I hope to see you again," he says after a brief period of silence. "I as well." is my response. "Maybe I could message you on Facebook or text you when I get the chance," he says. "I'd like that," I whisper.
I walk over to Rhea. The party was indeed extravagant, but I'm especially glad I got to see her. "I wish we had hung out more," I say. "Well, you go to meet my friends. I wish your mom would let you stay longer." She looks at me like I'm a lost puppy.
"I should get used to it; it happens all the time. You're finally 16." She smiles. "Yes, finally." I look at Eric, all by himself. "Well, it seems you and Eric had a good time." We were. There are beautiful lights hanging around the mansion, beautiful music playing, and luminous candles. "Promise me you'll call me," she says. "I promise," I say softly.
The limousine arrives. The night is ever so silent. As we pass each building, house, and car...it becomes clearer that my life was never really mine to begin with. I feel like a number in this fabricated system of money. I ultimately can be revoked or granted money from my parents; so I have to play the poster child for the Hernandez family.