C5 Episode 4

(Keisha’s Pov)

I settled into my seat, quietly observing the charming atmosphere of the little cafe called "THE BARN". The interior design was incredibly beautiful, creating a sense of peace and warmth that made me instantly feel at home.

As I perused the menu, unsure of what to order, Morgan's voice interrupted my thoughts.

Finding it difficult to choose," Morgan asked her

I looked up to find her gazing at me, her expression a mix of softness and coldness. Her arms were folded tightly across her chest, her eyes never leaving mine.

Before I could respond to her question, a young Asian waitress approached our table, her attention shifting from me to Morgan. She politely asked if we were ready to order.

I nodded, grateful for the interruption. "Yes, we're ready," I replied, attempting to hide my surprise at Morgan's sudden change in demeanor.

Morgan unfolded her arms and locked her gaze on me once again. "So, babe, what do you prefer?" she asked, scanning the menu. "The kimchi spam fried rice or the creamy bacon and kimchi pasta?"

As I watched them interact, jealousy gnawed at me. They looked so good together, their chemistry undeniable. Meanwhile, I, a virgin and single at the age of eighteen, struggled to maintain my dignity and faith in finding love.

"We will have the creamy bacon and kimchi pasta and the kimchi spam fried rice, thank you," she said to the waitress who jotted down her orders before turning to me.

"And for you?" she asked, her voice soft and polite

"I'll have the, xo seafood fried rice please," I replied, my gaze still fixed on Morgan trying to decipher her sudden change in behavior.

"Do you have a problem with me," I asked her

"Excuse me," she said. "What made you think I have a problem with you?" she asked curiously, her eyes not flinching from mine.

"Why are you being cold to me? You barely even know me," I asked.

"Sorry if I came across as rude earlier. I didn't mean to. You seemed unsure, so I wanted to help."

"I'm not slow," I mutter under my breath, my eyes fixed on the table, feeling shy.

"It's normal to feel shy around new people," Jamie interjected, trying to ease the tension.

"If she continues to behave in that manner, she won't be able to survive here. College is akin to a jungle where everyone is let loose, and unfortunately, she appears to be an easy target. I hope you don't mind me saying this, but that's the truth."

Her words hit me hard. Although she seemed genuinely worried, I couldn't help but think she was meddling in my affairs. Who gave her the right to judge me?

"Hey, are you doing okay?" Jamie asked, understanding how much Morgan's words had hurt my pride.

"I want you to know that you don't have to worry about me. I am not your responsibility," I said.

"She exclaimed, "If you want to help, then act like it. Right now, I feel like you're not."

"That's enough, Morgan. You are overstepping your boundaries," James cautioned.

I despised being judged by my personality, and Morgan's upfront comment made me realize that I still had a long way to go in overcoming my social anxiety.

I ignored Morgan throughout the conversation and focused on my hunger, eagerly waiting for my food to arrive so I could finally energize myself.

Today was hectic, but I'm grateful it's over. Despite the tough conversations with Ivy and Morgan, I'm trying to stay positive.

I picked up my Bible and got on my knees beside my bed to say my prayer before I sleep, my mom would flip if I didn't

"What are you doing?" Morgan asked, watching me from behind

I ignored her and kept on reminiscing with God.

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

September 12th, 2023

7:30 am

Dear Diary.

Yesterday was a tough day for me. I'm hoping that today will be better. I apologize for not being able to update you for a while. A lot has happened over the past few years. I would love to share, but it is a memory I don't want to revisit. I hope you can understand my decision.

Anyway, I have some good news. I was accepted into college, although it's not the one we always dreamt of. The best part is, that it's far away from Dad. Ivy is here with me too, but unfortunately, Pete got luckier than us and was accepted into our dream college.

I just got here but I feel like a lot....

My phone chimed “Wanna hang out” I stared at the text

“ got plan to check out Library, still haven't gotten the chance to tour around” I texted back

“Am outside your dorm” she replied

I stare at the message, she must be joking, I get up and head to the door, unlocking it.

“Suprise,” Ivy said, a forced smile appeared on her face. “Please come on, I trying here” she added

“Come in” I move aside letting her in, she stared at Morgan's heavy Gothic design on her side of the wall.

“ whoa, she must be heavily rooted in all this stuff,” Ivy asks.

I said nothing, slowly tucking my dairy away, and sat on the bed staring at Ivy who stood, her eyes still fascinated by Morgan's explicit taste.

“So you said, you wanted a tour of the library” Ivy finally said, staring at me

I nodded, my eyes fixated on my phone, I stared at the text from my mom. A little morning cheer-up message, as usual, a smile curled up my lips

“We could check it together” she quickly added

“Aren't you busy?” I asked

“Nope, I have to do a morning vlog today, still out of ideas, but you gave me an idea— touring the library with you, it a good start don't you know” she said, excitement filling her voice as she explained

“Hmmm” I chimed in

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

I was exhausted and hungry, we had been touring around the school for about 3 hours non-stop, all thanks to Ivy who kept feeding the enthusiasm of her so-called fans.

“So guys, guess where we are having breakfast— Tada, “The morning brunch”, the food here is top-notch, and is highly recommended. So whenever you all decide to visit California don't forget to visit, am sure you will all love it here, have a nice day bye” she finally drop her phone

"Isn't that exhausting?" I asked, feeling sympathy for my friend.

"Tell me about it, my mouth is almost numb," she replied, her hand touching her face as if trying to feel the exhaustion.

"The things you do for your fans," I whispered, acknowledging the sacrifices she made.

"Their love and support fill my pocket. I need them financially, just as they need me to fill their boring lives," she said with a hint of detest in her voice.

A curious Ivy interjected, "Aren't you ordering?"

"Waiting for you," I said, signaling the waiter over.

"Good morning, ladies," he greeted politely, a smile forming on his lips.

"Hello, handsome," Ivy responded flirtatiously, her playful nature evident. The waiter seemed to respond to her attempt.

"Nice apron," she teased, her finger playfully tracing the hems of his apron.

"We have more where it came from. I can show you if you're less busy," he flirtatiously responded, leaning in closer. Ivy smiled, intrigued by his response.

Sitting there, I watched Ivy become engrossed in his attention, and the waiter wanted a piece of her. I coughed, slightly drawing their attention.

"I would like a cup of milkshake, please," I informed the waiter, trying to redirect his focus. However, his gaze remained fixed on Ivy.

Ivy bit her lower lip, a mischievous smirk forming. "A cup of milkshake for me too," she finally said.

The waiter smiled and walked away, but I rolled my eyes in annoyance as Ivy's gaze followed him.

"Isn't he cute, Keisha?" She asked, her voice filled with excitement.

"He is," I managed to say.

"I should invite him to the freshman orientation party tonight. What do you think?" she asked, waiting for my response while still staring at him.

Suddenly, the waiter returned with our orders. "He's coming. Don't say anything. Act cool," Ivy urgently whispered, trying to compose herself.

It was clear to me that Ivy was head over heels for him, but I was still baffled by how quickly she fell in love.

"Here are your orders," he said, passing me my milkshake.

Ivy took hers and took a sip, gently placing it back on the table. "So, are you on shift this evening at 7?" she asked, trying to strike up a conversation.

The waiter said nothing, his eyes shifting from me to Ivy. "No, is there a problem?" he responded.

"Great! You'll be my plus one for the freshman orientation party this evening," Ivy declared, assuming he would eagerly accept.

I could see the confusion in his eyes as he replied, "I don't plan on going."

"But why? Come on, it'll be fun. What's wrong with all of you?" Ivy exclaimed, folding her hands in protest.

He shrugged before speaking again. "I'll go, but on one condition."

Ivy raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his condition. "Oh, okay. What's the condition?" she asked.

"I'll go if your friend here will be there," he said, finally acknowledging my presence.

Shocked and confused, I choked on my milkshake, the unexpected turn of events catching me off guard. Ivy stared at me, then back at him.

"Deal."