C2 KIESHA'S SECRET ADMIRER

The Jones family ended their dinner at 8:00 pm in the evening. Elizabeth stood up and get the plates one by one and placed it all at the sink.

I’ll wash the plates.”, said Kiesha.

“No dear. I’ll be the one to wash the plates dear. Just relax and focus in your studies.”, replied her mother.

“Okay mother. I’ll go in the bedroom.”, replied Kiesha.

“Alright dear.”, added Elizabeth.

“You know Kiesha, your High School Graduation is coming up. We’re excited for you.”, replied Alexa.

“Thank you sis.”, replied Kiesha.

Kiesha immediately went to her bedroom filled with books but there is no proper cabinet to put in. The simple girl really loved books and everytime before she left school, she will make it sure that she can pass by at the library hall to borrow some books she love and return them after reading.

“Oh, I have books in here. I forgot to return these things. I’ll pass by at the library tomorrow.”, said Kiesha.

It was already 9 pm in the evening when all of the neighbors are already asleep except for John. He went outside and seated on the old and dusty wooden stairs while staring at the moon. He heard the traffic noise generated by the vehicles passing by along the bridge.

“What will be my job? I don’t have a degree. I didn’t finish college. I’m a total mess. I can’t even send Kiesha to school. But I am still proud of my sister because she always find a way to educate herself. I am proud of you Kiesha”, whispered John with a sigh as he looked at the bright stars in the sky.

He looked at his family while falling asleep. John went back outside and can’t sleep until he was called by a man who was his neighbor but he’s not familiar with the him.

“Hey John! Come here join us!”, said the man.

“Huh? What’s going in there?”, he replied.

“Join us John. We have alcoholic beverage here. I know you’re a drunkard. Haha. By the way, I am Anton, I am just visiting my friend here. Nice to meet you.”, he replied.

“Oh, That’s why your face is not too familiar for me. Welcome here. How did you know that I’m a drunkard uh?”, replied John.

“Oh well, sorry ‘bout that. Kenneth just said that earlier.”, replied Anton.

“Oh John. How are you? We saw you and your family quarreling again uh? What’s the matter? We noticed that most of the days you’re family is always fighting.”, said Kenneth, one of his neighbors.

“Yes. I think I’m a mess. You all knew that. I don’t have a job to support my family. But how can you bought a lot of alcoholic bottles? What is your current job?”, replied John.

“We are lucky because Anton’s here. He gave us drinks for free.”, replied Kenneth.

“Anton was actually working in a confidential business company.”, replied Kenneth.

“What did you mean confidential?”, replied John.

“It’s nothing.”, replied Anton.

“Here take this beverage. Let’s all drink and catch up the moment.”, added Anton.

The group talked and laughed each other.

“So can we go back about the conversation? About your work Mr. Anton, what’s really behind your work? Why is it called confidential?

“You really want to know?”, he replied.

John halted and suddenly remained silent.

“Actually, I worked in a business where I searched mostly for teenage girls and having them kidnapped and ransomed. Actually, I bet for the richer ones.”, he replied.

“Really? Don’t you have any conscience? Do you have a family on your own?”, asked John.

“Actually that’s the question I mostly heard. But I can’t do any other job which can provide more of my expectation. Like paying rents, bills, debts and etc. I tried working only in a minimum wage. I also tried working abroad. And my boss has also other sideline so I grabbed this opportunity. Yes, I have a family. A loving wife and a 2 months old daughter. I have also my family that needs me. My parents. My mother who was recently ill but thanks to my great boss he included me in his business. My ill mother was already out from the hospital this past week. I almost paid a half million just to make her survive with the disease.”, replied Anton.

“Oh. It can be of great help.”, replied John.

“How about you? So, you’re problem now is where you can get money.”, replied Anton.

“Well yeah. But yes, I am addicted to alcoholic drinks since college. There came to a point where I don’t want to finish college anymore. So I quit.”, replied John.

“I also tried working as a salesboy in a department store. I tried working every type of work in a legal way. But I think my minimum wage can’t help me to provide the overall needs of my family. My father is just a construction worker. My mother is a housewife. I have a sister who is just a newly hired from a bakery store. While my younger sister was just studying in school. I am very proud of her because she can provide everything for her allowance and expenses in school. She’s a government scholar by the way”, replied John.

“Oh, you have a supportive family John. I think it’s okay if you can find a legal job for now. You have your own conscience.”, replied Anton.

“But for me John, I really want to work with Anton. I know he can help me get out of this burdened life in here. Imagine living under the bridge and near the reconstructed highway full of dusts and noisy environment. There was also a dump storage almost filled with messy, ugly and foul garbage at the back of the squatter area. No one get it for us.”, replied Kenneth.

“You can think twice John. I did not force you to do the same but if you really want to try I can’t also do ways not to convince you.”, said Anton.

It’s already 11 pm in the evening while the group was still drinking for hours.

“I have to go now Kenneth, Anton. Thank you for inviting me this night.”, said John.

John got up from his seat and went back to his home.

“John wait!”, shouted Anton.

John turned around and went back at the group.

“What?”, replied John.

“Here take this. Just in case you have decided to join the team.”, said Anton.

“What’s this? A phone number?”, replied John.

“Yes John.”, replied Anton.

“Oh, thank you for this. I got you!”, replied John.

“Bye for now and I’ll update you once I have already decided. Bye for now folks!”, added John.

“Bye John!”, the group replied.

John reached the front door of their house and kept the paper with a number on his wallet.

“Where did you come from? Are you drank again?”, asked his father, Edmund.

“Oh father, I am just getting along with my friends outside. We’re just doing a little bonding and jamming together.”, he replied.

Edmund, his father kept in a moment of silence and went outside.

“Where are you going father?”, asked John.

“I just have to get the dry clothes because the rain is started to fall again.”, he replied.

“Okay I’ll help you.”, replied John.

The father and son helped together to ensure that everything is all kept before the rain starts to pour.

“John! We’re heading now! Bye and decide as soon as possible!”, shouted Anton.

“Oh hey Anton! Thank you! Noted on that.”, replied John.

“Who are they?”, asked his father.

“Oh, our new neighbors father. They are the group that I got along with earlier.”, he replied.

“What does he talking about?”, asked Edmund.

“The what?”, replied John.

“He said that you should decide as soon as possible. What does that thing that you need to decide son?”, replied her father.

“Oh ahmm.. It’s about the job I wanted to apply. That man is in a business. I want to join their team.”, replied John.

“What does his business all about?”, asked his father.

“His business is like a networking business father. The more you recruit, the more you can earn.”, he replied.

“Is that legal?”, asked Edmund.

“Mmm. Yes..”, he replied slowly.

“Alright. That’s great. Just piece of advice son. No matter what life has to offer you. It might be you feel burdened or relaxed, positive work can make your life easier.”, replied his father.

John did not make a word. Instead, he just nodded. His heart breaks for the first time he heard an advice from his own father. He continued keeping things and closed the broken door.

“Alright, everything is set. I’ll sleep now. Good night.”, John replied.

“Alright son. Good night. Thank you for helping me earlier.”, he replied.

A bright Friday morning came. The Jones family is still asleep except for Kiesha. She woke up early. First, she boiled 6 eggs and get some bread for her breakfast. After, she took a bathe at the water pump. Then, she quickly ran into her bedroom to wear her school uniform.

“The egg is boiled already. Let me get some bread. Oh, I forgot. I’ll get another egg for my lunch.”, she whispered.

She headed at the water pump again to brush her teeth. She went back to prepare things inside her torn bag. She immediately tied her old shoes and get the bicycle. She placed the bag inside the basket and went through riding a bicycle as she was heading for school.

“Good morning Kiesha! You’re so early! I hope my daughter will be like you too.”, one of her neighbors greeted her.

“Good morning too madame! I’ll get going. Bye!”, she replied joyfully.

Elizabeth, Alexa and John was still asleep. Edmund woke up and searched for Kiesha.

“Oh, I think Kiesha went on her way to school. And look, she boiled eggs for breakfast. What a sweet child.”, whispered Edmund as he toasted the slices of bread in an old stainless plate under it was a set of a lit fire.

Kiesha stopped by on a roadside when she remembered Kitty.

“Kitty? Where are you? Are you in here?”, she said.

Suddenly, a kitten came up from her sight.

“Oh darling! My cute little Kitty! How have you been?”, she asked blissfully.

The little kitten recognized her so it came closer to her. Kiesha lifted it and placed her palm onto its head.

“You want a ride? I think your family will be searching for you. Just stay here and I’ll visit you anytime soon. Alright?”, she said.

“Meowww…”, reacted the kitten.

Kiesha placed Kitty back on the ground and bid goodbye.

“Bye for now Kitty.”, said Kiesha.

Kiesha headed her way to school.

“Oh, Kiesha. Good morning! You’re so early. It’s 6:00 am. You’re very motivated to go to school uh.”, greeted the bodyguard.

“Yes Mr. bodyguard. I am excited to graduate this year.”, replied Kiesha.

“Good morning by the way.”, she added.

“Oh. So you will be on stage this year to get your awards and medal.”, replied the bodyguard.

“Ahm.. I don’t know Sir. Actually I am not expecting that much. Hehe.”, humbly replied Kiesha.

“Good morning Kiesha!”, greeted Aivy.

“Good morning Aivy!”, she replied.

“Good morning Ms. President!”, greeted Justin, the school’s campus crush.

“Good morning. You are?”, replied Kiesha.

“Oh, you did not know him don’t you? He’s the school’s campus crush Kiesha.”, replied Aivy.

“So?”, whispered Kiesha.

“Well, obviously a lot of girls like him except you. But I bet he was in a relationship with Matilda. A rumor or fact, don’t know. Not interested about Matilda but I am more interested with Justin.”, said Aivy excitedly.

“Oh shut up.”, replied Kiesha.

“Best, he’s famous aside from he’s a very good looking guy, his parents owned this school. I bet you know that uh?”, said Aivy.

“What?”, asked Kiesha shockingly.

Justin was in 4th year high school in Gold section. He was one of the famous heart robs in school. Actually, his parents owned the school campus and granted government scholarships to the low class students. Justin was just a simple and fine boy. He was very handsome that every time he passes by, every girl takes a picture of him.

“Hello, I am Justin. Nice meeting you Kiesha. Actually, I liked how you manage school activities and workshop few months ago. And by the way, congratulations on winning the declamation contest.”, added Justin.

“Thanks Jus.”, replied Kiesha as she moves towards Justin.

“Bye. I’ll go ahead.”, said Justine.

“Ayeee. Isn’t he so cute Kiesha? Look. Everyone’s watching you especially Matilda. I think Matilda’s jealous right now.”, replied Aivy.

“What? Stop it Aivy. We should have to focus on our studies. This year will be our graduation.”, she replied with a blush on her face.

“Oh yah. Right. I am really excited for it. Hey, I just noticed. You’re blushing uh.”, replied Aivy.

As they were heading to their classroom, someone was blocking them.

“Good morning girls.”, said Matilda.

“Oh hey Matilda, what’s good in the morning. I think you’re not in a good mood right now.”, replied Aivy.

“Oh well I think so.”, replied Matilda.

“So tell me Kiesha.”, added her.

“What did you two talk about?”, asked her.

“Talk with Aivy?”, asked Kiesha.

“Oh.. I think she’s getting jealous dear.”, replied Aivy.

“I am not the one she’s pointing about Kiesh, it’s between you and Justin.”, added Aivy.

“Well, you mean Justin and me?”, asked Kiesha.

“Well absolutely yes! A hundred percent perfect score. Exactly!”, said Matilda hesitantly.

“Ahmm.. he just greeted and congratulated me Matilda for winning the declamation contest.”, replied Kiesha.

“Oh, wow! Around of applause to our Ms. President came from a very low class family.”, replied Matilda.

“Stop it Matilda! You’re just obvious that your envy and jealous.”, said Aivy.

“And you! Stop defending your poor friend. You’re just came from a middle class family. But not bad, anyway.”, replied Matilda.

“Matilda, you don’t have the right to mock me or anyone of us here. You’re too obvious that you’re acting so immoral these past days. Don’t worry because Justin is not my type.”, replied Kiesha.

“Haysst. Poor baby girl. Actually that’s why I’m here because I have to tell you something. Me and Justin are now in a relationship. Look at this ring. Isn’t it too lovely for a very precious and beautiful face like me?”, replied Matilda.

“Oh, really? So? Should we have to congratulate you?”, replied Aivy.

“Congratulations Matilda. Wishing Justin will be very happy whenever he’s with you.”, replied Kiesha.

“Well, don’t trust Justin’s naked eyes within you. I mean don’t assume girl. You’re not type of my boyfriend. Maybe he’s just making fun with you in order for you to fall in love with him and eventually, breaks your heart into pieces.”, said Matilda.

“That’s enough!”, replied Aivy.

Kiesha walked out and went to her classroom. She placed her old bag at the back of her seat as if nothing happened lately. She took out one of her notebooks and started writing for an assignment.

“Excuse me.”, said Aivy.

Matilda was also heading her way to the classroom. Matilda, Aivy and Kiesha were classmates since Elementary. Aivy was the bestfriend of Kiesha. It’s Kiesha who always placed first in recognition or any activity in school then to be followed by Matilda.

Kiesha was very silent at the moment when a lot of her classmates entered the room.

“Hey Kiesh, want some?”, said her seatmate.

“No thanks. I don’t eat chocolate.”, she replied.

An hour after the flag ceremony, Kiesha noticed that Justin is staring at her from a distant.

“I think Matilda was right. He’s just playing with me. I can’t be fooled by this guy. Or else I’m gonna kick him.”, whispered Kiesha.

Later, the professor entered the room.

“Alright class, good morning.”, greeted Ms. Jane, their adviser.

“Good morning Ms. Jane.”, replied her students.

“Alright, before we’ll proceed, let’s do a 5 minute quick recap first then after we’ll have a short quiz for only 10 items. Be ready.”, replied Ms. Jane.

“Oh, so easy-peasy.”, whispered Matilda.

After Ms. Jane discussed about the Shang Dynasty in World History, she began the examination. After 30 minutes, she commanded the students to stop writing and exchange their papers to check.

“Alright, that’s the last question. Hand’s up everyone! Stop writing now.”, said Ms. Jane.

“You may now exchange the papers to your seatmate. Don’t cheat.”, she added.

As they were checking all their papers, Ms. Jane started to ask who get the perfect 10.

“Alright, give now the papers to their owners. Who got the perfect score?”, asked Ms. Jane.

“No one?”, she added.

“Oh Ma’am, I think I got the highest score. It’s not perfect but I got 9 out of 10.”, said Matilda.

“How about the others? Can you raise your hand who got the perfect score?”, asked Ms. Jane.

“Job well done Matilda.”, said Ms. Jane.

“Ma’am we have a classmate who got the perfect score. It’s Kiesha!”, shouted one of Kiesha’s classmates.

“Wow! You’re very smart Kiesha!”, said Aivy.

“Really? Wow! Very good Kiesha. I bet only Kiesha and Matilda are always focusing on their studies. How about the others?”, asked Ms. Jane, their professor.

“How about you Aivy?”, asked Ms. Jane.

“I only got 8. But not bad.”, replied Aivy.

“Also Aivy Ma’am, she got 8 out of 10.”, said Kiesha.

“Gosh.. I really hate her. Urgghh..”, whispered Matilda badly.

“Alright congratulations to those who passed the quiz today. You should study hard to pass the next examinations. Your graduation is upcoming. I hope this section will pass and graduate.”, said Ms. Jane to her students with encouragement.

“Thank you for encouraging us Ms. Jane. We will graduate soon.”, replied Kiesha.

“I bet Kiesha will be the top of the class this year followed by Matilda and Aivy.”, replied Ms. Jane.

Because of that, Matilda turned red upon her face.

“I won’t let Kiesha that poor girl ruin my career.”, she whispered.

Their professor was done teaching already and it’s time to snack.

“Alright everyone, that’s is for our lesson for today. Take care and God bless everyone.”, said Ms. Jane.

“Good bye and thank you Ms. Jane. Have a blessed day ahead!”, replied most of the students.

As the professor went out, Kiesha headed her way to the library to return the books she borrowed last time.

“Kiesha where are you going? I’ll join with you.”, said Aivy.

“Let’s go to the library. I’ll just have to return these books I borrowed last time.”, replied Kiesha.

“Alright..”, replied Aivy.

The best friends came into the library.

“Hello miss, I want to return these books I borrowed last time.”, said Kiesha.

“Kiesha, how are you? Are you a graduating student right?”, asked the librarian.

“Yes miss.”, replied Kiesha.

“Good luck on your endeavor.”, replied the librarian.

“Thank you so much.”, replied Kiesha.

As Aivy was looking around at the room, she saw Justin staring back at Kiesha.

“Oh my gosh.”, said Aivy.

“What?”, asked Kiesha.

“No, don’t turn around. Stop looking at the back.”, replied Aivy.

“Why?”, asked Kiesha.

“He’s here.”, said Aivy.

“Who?”, asked Kiesha again.

“Kiesha here’s your ID thank you.”, said the librarian.

“Oh thank you miss .”, she replied.

“Aivy, whom are you talking to?”, asked Kiesha.

As Kiesha turned her eyes around the corner of the room, she saw Justin reading a book.

“It’s Justin.”, said Kiesha.

“Yes, it’s him.”, replied Aivy.

“So? What’s the matter?”, asked Kiesha.

“I just saw him staring at you earlier. It’s just he can’t stop staring at you. I can feel it Kiesh..”, replied Aivy.

“Feel what?”, asked Kiesha.

“Maybe he has a crush on you.”, whispered Aivy.

“What? Stop it Aivy. Anyone can hear you.”, said Kiesha.

“Thank you.”, replied the librarian.

As the best friends heading their way back to the classroom, they noticed Matilda seated beside Justin.

“Hi love, how are you? Can I join you in the basketball practice later after class? Please.. I wanted to watch please..”, said Matilda pleasingly.

“So, they’re really into relationship?”, whispered Aivy.

“I don’t know. I don’t want to get into their business.”, replied Kiesha.

“Are you jealous?”, asked Aivy.

“Why? Did I say that I have a crush on him? Anyway, I want to inform you Aivy that if ever Justin will fall in love with me, I can’t accept his feelings towards him. Because he’s a very popular guy came from a very rich family. Matilda would only slap me for it.”, replied Kiesha.

“Okay sorry best… But what if..”, replied Aivy.

“Enough Aivy..”, replied Kiesha.

Matilda and Justin are continuously talking.

“Justin, just stop reading that nonsense book and look at me.”, said Matilda as her face turned red.

“Justin!”, she added.

“Matilda what? Can you just step aside or go back? You know what? We are really into separate ways. Look, you don’t even like reading books. Just go and I’ll just catch up or text you later.”, replied Justin.

Matilda went outside and slammed the door.

“How could you. Oh gosh. What an annoying girlfriend.”, he whispered.

Kiesha and Aivy noticed the lovers.

“Oh. Is that Matilda boast on us about? She’s lucky but I don’t think Justin is lucky with her.”, said Aivy.

Kiesha stared at Justin and the best friends went back to their classroom. Some students practiced dancing, some are studying for the upcoming exams, others are just talking and laughing.

Afternoon came. The students are already prepared to get home from class. But Kiesha doesn’t want to get home. Instead, she went back to the library to borrow some books.

“I want to go back to the library to borrow the novel I loved.”, whispered Kiesha.

It’s 4:00 pm in the afternoon. Kiesha entered the library and went to the novel book category cabinet.

She went through and placed her fingers on top of the books to find the novel.

“There you go.”, she whispered.

But as she pulled the novel book, someone also pulled it from the other side.

“Excuse me?”, she said.

“Oh sorry.”, replied the guy.

“Kiesha?”, said Justin.

“Oh, Justin it’s you.”, replied Kiesha.

“Go on. You first.”, said Justin.

“No, I think you pulled it first.”, replied Kiesha.

“Alright, but ladies first.”, replied Justin.

“Okay.. Fine. I’ll have it first. But I will borrow this and bring it home. Sorry Justin.”, replied Kiesha.

“Oh, it’s okay. I think you’re gonna borrow it and read it here hehe.”, replied Justin.

“Will you borrow it too?”, asked Kiesha.

“Yeah if possible. Mmm. I think I’ll find another one.”, replied Justin.

“I’m sorry Justin.”, replied Kiesha.

“No, actually it’s okay.”, he replied.

“I didn’t expect that you also love reading novels.”, she said.

“Yeah, actually I am a book lover Kiesha. We’re same.”, replied Justin.

“Yah, noticed about that.”, said Kiesha as she felt butterflies in her stomach.

“Alright.. I’ll go ahead now and go over to the librarian’s desk to borrow this. Bye Justin.”, replied Kiesha.

“Kiesha wait!”, said Justin.

As soon Justin wants to say something to Kiesha, Matilda came over.

“Justin dear?”, said Matilda.

Matilda saw them talking with each other. She came quickly ang grabbed Justin’s arms.

“What do you want to say Justin?”, asked Kiesha.

“Ahm.. Nothing. Maybe next time. Just have the book borrowed first. I guess we both like that book.”, he replied.

Kiesha went over to the librarian and handed her the book in order for her to borrow it before she will come home.

“So, you and Kiesha are taking each other. I didn’t expect you to make friends with that poor girl.”, explained Matilda.

“Matilda, you again dear? Haha why didn’t you just text me that you will be here so that we can go together.

“Oh. I don’t like it here but I guess you and that silly and poor girl are always making friends with each other.”, replied Matilda.

“Matilda, sorry but I think this is the last time I will give you enough chances. Once you will always mock other people, I will not doubt to break up with you.”, replied Justin.

“What?”, asked Matilda.

“Excuse me. I have to go to the practice.”, replied Justin.

“Wait, what did you just tell me? Is that what you would say? You can’t even say sorry!”, asked Matilda.

“Matilda it’s very clear. Don’t make a scene here. I’ll keep going now and do not follow me.”, replied Justin.

Matilda was shocked and did not say a word. She was really heartbroken that time. She was really hurt so bad that she wants to slap Kiesha’s face.

“Okay Matilda, act like a princess. Don’t show them how you felt lately even to Justin.”, she whispered.

Kiesha reached home carrying some of the books she borrowed aside from the novel she liked.

“I didn’t expect Justin will like this romance novel.”, she whispered.

Kiesha suddenly imagined what she and Justin had the moment lately.

“Oh, stop it Kiesha. Focus on your studies. Few months from now, you will graduate high school. You and Justin will not meet each other again. But, please don’t over reacting. You know that Justin doesn’t have any feelings towards you. Even though other guy will confess his feelings towards me, I won’t accept it. It can’t help me to pursue my dreams in life. What a waste.”, whispered Kiesha to herself.

“Dear, you arrived. Thanks God you’re safe while riding on your bicycle.”, greeted her mother, Elizabeth.

“Hello mother, where’s father? Alexa and John?”, she asked.

“Oh, since today is Friday, I think your father did an overtime work as what he told me this morning. While your sister Alexa, she was at the bakeshop and will come home at 7 pm. While your brother, he told us that he will keep searching for a job. Since then, he did not return home until now.”, replied her mother.

“Alright, I’ll just change clothes and help you to prepare the dinner mother.”, replied Kiesha.

Evening came. Kiesha and his mother prepared the plates and utensils placed on the small table.

“Alright, we have here a canton, salmon and bananas.”, her mother said.

“We’re only waiting for them.”, she added.

“Mother I’ll just go to the room first and I’ll get along with you for dinner if all of us are already complete. I’ll just study for awhile.”, replied Kiesha.

“But I think you’re hungry now. Come here, better to eat first.”, said Elizabeth.

“Later mother, I am not yet hungry.”, replied Kiesha.

Kiesha went to her bedroom and read the novel she really liked.

“I love this novel entitled “Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I think this has a happy ending.”, she whispered.

Kiesha read 2 chapters of the novel until someone knocked at the door.

“Oh, dear. How have you been? Me and Kiesha are waiting for you.”, said Elizabeth.

“Hi dear. Where’s Alexa and John?”, replied Edmund.

“Ahmm.. They will be here in a moment.”, replied Elizabeth.

“Where’s Kiesha?”, he asked.

“She’s in her bedroom.”, replied Elizabeth.

Until an hour, Alexa came bringing a pack of different flavored bread slices, whole bread and mangoes.

“Hello guys, I’m home.”, said Alexa.

“Oh dear. How are you at your first job?”, asked Elizabeth.

“Kind of tiresome but worth it. Here take this.”, said Alexa.

“By the way, John texted me that he will not return home. He said that he’s in the house of one of his friends.”, she added.

“But why? Doesn’t he like here at home? This is his family.”, said Kiesha as she came outside from her small room.

“Oh dear. Don’t worry. I think your brother is responsible now. He’ll find ways to support us someday.”, said her father.

“So, what are we waiting for? Let’s eat now. I am very hungry.”, murmured Alexa.

“Let’s not wait for John. He is safe with his friends.”, added Alexa.

The family prayed and ate together. They talked about their experiences for the day.

“So Kiesha, how’s school? When is your graduation?”, asked Alexa.

“I think after 2 months from now sis.”, replied Kiesha.

“That’s great news!”, her father replied.

“We have only 1 periodical exam to attend to. After all the projects are submitted, our professor will announce list of students who passed or failed.

“I’ll wash the plates for this evening mother.”, said Alexa.

“Alright dear. Thank you.”, replied Elizabeth.

The family continued talking until they all fall asleep around 9 pm in the evening.

“John was not yet around. I wonder where he is now mother.”, said Kiesha.

“Don’t worry dear. He will be okay.”, replied her mother.

The Weekend came. It was a bright Saturday morning. Kiesha helped her mother to do the laundry and cooking. While her sister Alexa was on duty at the bakeshop. Her father also came early at the construction site he’s working. While John was still not returned home. But the family is used to it, of not seeing John everyday. John will only return home is he likes to.

“Mother, after this, we will help each other find bottles and plastics to sell in the afternoon.”, said Kiesha.

“Yes dear. Thank you for reminding me.”, replied Elizabeth.

After helping her mother, she went inside her bedroom. She stared at the corner and noticed one of the pages of the novel book she read last night was slightly folded. She get the book and whispered.

“Oh, I am still in chapter 2.”, she whispered.

She then thought of Justin that time.

“What does he wanted to say to me this afternoon? Matilda just came through that’s why we did not continuously talk.”, she added.

“Kiesha? Dear? Come pls help me. This is the last laundry.”, her mother called her.

“Yes mother, coming!”, she replied.

Kiesha helped her mother do the last laundry. In the afternoon, they went to the streets to find bottles to sell them in exchange for pennies. They got home in the evening already and noticed John was the one who cooked for dinner. Alexa saw them and hurriedly ran towards them bringing a cake.

“Wow! What’s that sis?”, asked Kiesha.

“A cake dear.”, replied Alexa.

“Is John with you?”, asked their mother.

“Nope.”, replied Alexa.

“Hey father, how’s your job?”, asked Kiesha.

“Well, as usual. But the good thing is that our boss celebrated his birthday today at the site. He gave us some pocket money and also a pack of bring home foods.”, he replied.

“Oh.. wow! So it’s Sir Henry’s birthday today?”, asked Kiesha.

“Yes dear. How did you know him?”, asked her father.

“He’s the father of my classmate Matilda whose attitude is not like her father. Her parents are very kind to me. Do you remember the day that you didn’t show up in school while I am being awarded as the winner in the contest I joined? Her wife Ms. Jane worn me a medal on that specific day. And her daughter got mad.”, she replied.

“Really? I should have thanked Mr. Henry and his wife for it. His wife also visited the place sometimes.”, replied his father.

“Come, let’s unpacked the foods together and place it in a container in order for it not to be spoiled.”, he added.

The family ate together and really amazed how the foods they ate were very delicious.

“We have here chicken wings, shrimps, spaghetti and cake.”, said John.

“I also brought us cake father, what a coincidence.”, replied Alexa.

“It’s sad because brother’s not here.”, replied Kiesha.

“John is already 27 years old. Maybe he found a girlfriend already and started to build a family?”, replied Alexa.

“Really? Is that it?”, replied Alexa.

“Alright guys. Enough. Let’s just pray for John’s safety as well.”, replied Elizabeth, their mother.

Monday morning came. Kiesha was really excited to go to school.

“Good morning self. I don’t know I am just really excited to go to school. Is it because our graduation is coming up? Or there’s something even more appealing to my heart.”, she whispered.

She got up early at 4:00 am in the morning and headed to school at 5:30 am. She brought boiled egg for her lunch. She ate a slice of bread with milk as her meal for breakfast.

“Seize the day! Good morning birds, good morning puppies, good morning kittens.”, she whispered joyfully.

“Good morning madame!”, she greeted happily to every person she meets along the way while riding on her bicycle.

She reached school and noticed Justin also came early. She pretended that she didn’t notice him.

“Kiesha!”, shouted Justin.

He came towards Kiesha with a smile on his face.

“Oh, hi there Justin. What’s up?”, she asked.

“So how many chapters did you read already?”, asked Justin.

“Oh, only 2 chapters. But don’t worry. I already decided to return the book at the library this afternoon after class. See you!”, said Kiesha but as she went through, she accidentally stepped onto the rock who almost cause her to fell down but thanks to Mr. Life Saver, Justin, who immediately came to save her from an accident.

“Oh, you almost fell. Sorry ‘bout that.”, said Justin as he held Kiesha’s back leaned onto both of his arms.

“Oh uhmm. Sorry Justin. It was an accident. I am really really sorry for taking your time. You can just leave me alone instead and watch me fell down. I think the rock caused all of this.”, she replied nervously.

“Oh uhm. So.. Uh.. Can I go with you this afternoon at the library?”, asked Justin.

“For me, it’s totally fine Justin. The problem is Matilda maybe she will get mad either you or me if she will see us being together for no reason at all. Just making friends.”, she replied.

“Don’t worry. I’ll talk to Matilda. Actually, I already gave her one last chance.”, said Justin.

“I noticed she will always mock you. I don’t like it. It’s just I felt pity for you Kiesha. You’re very bright and smart. Even though you came from a low class family, I respect you. But Matilda is getting spoiled by her parents which is really bad for her. It can’t make her to become more independent like you.”, replied Justin proudly.

“Wow.. amazing. Thank you for the compliment Justin. But I have to go now. See you around. Bye!”, replied Kiesha.

Kiesha felt some butterflies are flying inside of her stomach because of how she felt that morning. She immediately went to the bathroom and smiling all over. After, she went outside and came in as an early bird at their room.

“Oh, no one’s here yet. No doubt it was just early in the morning.”, she whispered to herself.

She took a nap for awhile and imagined the moments he has with Justin earlier.

It’s about an hour when Kiesha has fallen asleep on her armchair.

“Okay everybody, all rise. Let’s do some exercise here. I guess most of you is not ready for the class today.”, said their professor as she entered the room.

As a daily routine, before the professor would start her lesson, she will do a recap discussion for her students. And after, she will decide what to take. A pre-test or oral examination. After class, Kiesha would always stay in the library to study first before reaching home to focus on the last periodical examination.

In the afternoon at 4:00 pm, many girls in school has a huge crush on Justin. They noticed he was staying at the corner in front of the Diamond Classroom as if he was waiting someone after class.

“Oh my gosh… I think Justin is waiting someone at the Diamond Classroom.”, one of the girls said.

“I bet its Matilda again?”, other one whispered.

“Nope, I think another girl this time.”, said the other one.

“How lucky that girl would be.”, said one of the girls.

Suddenly, Kiesha went outside and greeted Justin.

“Hey, Justin.”, said Kiesha.

“Did you wait longer?”, she asked.

“Nope. Let’s go?”, he asked.

“Wait!”, yelled Matilda.

“What’s this all about Justin? So the rumors are true. You and this pathetic girl are together.”, said Matilda angrily.

“Yes. So?”, replied Justin.

“No, you misunderstood it Matilda. Justin and I are just friends. He only wanted to accompany me at the library because I have a novel to return to. Because he also really wanted this novel so much.”, replied Kiesha.

Justin came closer to Matilda.

“Again, how many times I told you Matilda stop making nonsense scene here. Stop being so jealous. It can’t help you.”, whispered Justin to Matilda.

“Let’s go Kiesha.”, said Justin.

Kiesha and Justin went to the library together. They read until they had so much time in getting to know each other.

“Ahm.. if you don’t mind, is it okay with you if you talk to me and is it okay if all of them see us talking each other? Like you know. I came from a very low class family while you, you are so different. Many girls are watching over here, look at them.”, said Kiesha.

“Oh don’t mind them Kiesha. It’s alright. I believed that a person with a good morale is better to accompany with rather than a person with an immoral heart.”, he replied.

“Wow.. How amazing of you Justin.”, she replied.

“By the way, I have to go now.”, she added.

“But why? It’s only 5:00 pm. I want to know more about you.”, he replied.

“Yeah, I really want to but tomorrow is our examination for all 4th year students. We should literally focus on our exam Jus.”, she replied.

“Alright, I understand you. Take care and keep safe. Ahm… You want me to drive you home?”, asked Justin.

“What? No. I’m okay I mean it’s alright.”, said Kiesha nervously.

Justin gets blushed as well. While Kiesha immediately ran towards the library’s main door.

“Alright, bye Kiesha.”, replied Justin.

The month of March came. The 4th year students in Benjamin Atlas School were prepared for their final examination day. Others were in the lobby studying and memorizing the topics. Others were in the classroom talking about the lessons.

“Hey Kiesha, good morning. Are you ready for today’s final examination?”, asked Aivy.

“Hello there best, actually I felt nervous. I don’t know if the lessons I studied this week will come out on the exam.”, she replied.

“I know you can do it. You’re the smartest from all of us here.”, replied Aivy.

“By the way, why didn’t you tell me?”, asked Aivy.

“Tell what?”, asked Kiesha.

“Haysst. I saw you and Justin together talking at the library yesterday afternoon.”, replied Aivy.

“Oh, we were together because I returned the novel I borrowed and he wants to read it to.”, she replied.

“Oh that means you and him are meant to be. Both of you have great taste in that book, right? Ayeee..”, replied Aivy.

“Don’t know. Maybe? It’s the Pride and Prejudice Romance Novel by Jane Austen.”, replied Keisha.

"Let's go Aivy. We will be late for the flag ceremony.", said Kiesha.

The best friends headed their way to school and soon the flag ceremony started.