Three Month Agreement (ENGLISH)

Chapter 3

After the song ended, we returned backstage, and I overheard my fellow candidates talking.

"My gosh! They're so handsome! They're the mayor's nephews, right?" number 5 said.

"Yes! They're really gorgeous as hell. Especially the one who was smiling," number 3 added.

It's true and right now, I felt like the girls were more motivated because of those two judges.

Focus, Zehra! You know your goal and that's to win. Don't waste Letty and the other's effort!

We returned to the stage again to showcase our talents. Since I wasn't good at dancing and only knew a little about singing, I decided to sing for my talent. Thankfully, I managed to sing without embarrassing myself.

When I got to the backstage, I closed my eyes tightly.

Thank goodness my voice didn't crack.

All of the girls did well, but I thought already that I wouldn't win in this portion since I could feel the crowd noticed that I'm nervous.

"Okay, ladies and gentlemen, we've seen the talents of our candidates! Who among them has captured your hearts?" the emcee announced.

The crowd's cheers were deafening as they shouted different numbers of their chosen candidates. While we're at the backstage, Letty come to me and encourage me.

"Hey! Why do you look so down? You did great singing!"

"You think so?"

"Yes! So, don't think of the negative outcome. That's only for talent. Come on, let's get ready with Lea," she said.

I nodded at Letty and smile at her. Then I heard that a dance group would perform next, giving us some time to change outfits.

Ahh... I can't shake off this heavy feeling in my chest. I just hope time would move faster and this night's pageant would finally be over.

The swimsuit segment would be after this performance, and I was even more nervous.

"Zehra, change into this! Here's a red swimsuit I picked out from the thrift shop," Lea handed it to me. I took the swimsuit and headed to the restroom. My hands felt cold because I wasn't used to showing so much skin. I rarely even wore shorts or tank tops.

But for five thousand, I'll do it.

After putting it on, I stepped out of the restroom and approached Lea and Letty. They looked at me with wide eyes. Their mouths are even opened.

"Oh my gosh! Why have you been hiding this kind of body, Zehra? I hate you! You're so sexy! Your skin is so smooth and fair!" Lea exclaimed, pinching my sides.

At first, nobody believed that I came from a poor family because of my complexion. It was also because I took care of myself; even when I was out all day under the scorching sun, I always wore long sleeves and pajamas to avoid getting sunburnt.

"Wow, you have no tummy! It's flat! And your butt is so big! You're so sexy, Zehra!" Lea continued.

"Geez, Zehra, I might turn into a guy because of you," Letty joked. I shook my head at them for praising me too much. I think they're just boosting my confidence.

When we heard the emcee announce our turn, I took a deep breath. Number 1 came out first. Our exposure in swimsuits would be longer this time.

"Number 8, get ready," the woman said to me. I nodded and put a smile even though I hadn't stepped out yet.

Alright, Zehra. Walk with grace and confidence.

"Please welcome, candidate number 8! Zehra Clarabelle Mineses! A very hardworking sister. At the age of fifteen, she had to raise her sibling alone. Industrious and kind, this is how her neighbors describe her," the emcee said.

"Go, Zehra! Ahh!"

"Go, sis!"

As I stepped out, the crowd cheered. Some even whistled. I walk to the center and looked around.

I felt embarrassed, but I had to smile. I walked to the other side of the stage. I looked at the judges, but I suddenly froze when my eyes met a sharp gaze. H-He's one of the judges.

What...

He looked serious and didn't take his eyes off me. My lips trembled, and I quickly looked away, forcing myself to focus on my steps as I continued to walk to the other side. But when I glanced back at the judges, I almost lost my smile upon realizing that the guy was still looking at me!

W-What is that look? It's not like he's admiring me! I felt like the way he looked at me was more intense. My heart raced, and I tried to maintain my composure.

Breathe, Zehra.

After my turn and I went to the backstage. Letty and Lea approached me and praised me for doing good. But I was still in awe beause of those dead eyes that followed me.

I-It's like I did something wrong, that's whow he looked at me.

"Zehra! Looks like you caught the eye of that handsome judge! Many noticed he couldn't take his eyes off you! Wow! He's the mayor's nephew!" Lea said.

I remembered the guy's face. Serious, sharp eyes. He seemed like he didn't know how to smile.

But...

His face seemed familiar.

Even the guy beside him. It felt like I've seen them before?

"It's time for the evening gown! Last part!"

Time passed by quickly. The question and answer part was over too. I was nervous, but I managed to answer well. While we were lined up earlier on stage, I noticed that guy didn't stop looking at me. I learned his name and the guy next to him when they were introduced by the emcee earlier.

Thauce Arzen... the guy with the serious, sharp eyes, and the one next to him was Errol...

Where did I see them? Where did I hear their names?

"Zehra, it's your turn, final look," Letty said.

"Kid, are you okay?"

"Let me help you."

"Errol, what took you so long? just give the kid money."

Shit!

I covered my mouth when I remembered where I saw them.

"Oh no, Errol! He's the one who gave me five thousand pesos before... and the one with him... Thauce... the grumpy one--"

"Number 8, it's your turn."

I quickly stood up when I was called again.

Oh, do they remember me? Is that why that guy looked at me like that?

I couldn't focus when the emcee called the top 5 candidates. But every time the emcee called, I heard my name. People cheered, Seya did too, and the folks from our neighborhood.

"Now we only have two candidates! Number 5 and number 8! Who will be crowned tonight?"

T-There are only two of us left...

Lost in thought, I hardly noticed.

"The winner of Miss Dapdap West is..."

Cheers erupted from the crowd, and excitement filled the air as everyone awaited the announcement. I could feel my heart racing, my palms sweaty against the fabric of my gown. It's okay if I don't win this. I did my best, and I'm sure I made everyone proud, especially my sister, Seya.

"Miss number 8! Zehra Clarabelle Mineses!"

T-That's my name, right?

"Zehra! You won! Zehra!" I heard my neighbors shouted in so much joy. They're just at my side near the stage!

I looked at them, especially at Lea and Letty, who really helped me backstage!

"Sis! You won!" Seya even jump because of too much happiness.

The judges then approached me, handing me the sash and the prize, which I thought was just five thousand pesos, but it turned out to be ten thousand!

Then Errol approached me with a smile, handing me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. My heart raced as I saw the guy with the cold gaze step forward next. I gulped when his intense eyes locked onto mine.

He was holding the trophy. Without saying a word, he handed it to me, his expression unreadable, yet somehow different.

"Congratulations, Miss Zehra Clarabelle Mineses! Thank you to everyone who attended tonight! Everyone, take care on your way home!" the emcee announced.

I stood there, feeling a so much joy as my neighbors surrounded me and showering me with congratulations. Seya then rushed in for a hug.

"Our efforts with Zehra paid off! Yay! Zehra, we're so happy for you! And that's ten thousand!" Letty exclaimed.

I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me for having such supportive people in our lives. My gaze shifted to my sister, who was smiling brightly, but then I noticed something troubling—she looked a bit pale. Before I could ask if she was alright, someone approached us.

"Hey."

I turned to the voice, surprised to see it was Errol. Oh no, does he remember me?

"Congratulations! I heard your story earlier. You deserve the prize," he said, his tone sincere. And while I was looking at him, it seemed like he really didn't remember me. Because that was 5 years ago, Zehra! Of course! And you're nothing special be to be remembered by someone like him!

Lea nudged me gently, teasing me. I shook my head at her, but she just pinched my side.

"He likes you!" she whispered.

"No, he's just congratulating me," I replied and my voice ws low enough for her to hear.

Errol was simply watching us, smiling. Just as I was about to speak to him, we were interrupted by someone.

"Errol, let's go. I want to go home now."

I swallowed hard when I saw who it was, taken aback to see Thauce—the man with the sharp, menacing eyes. His presence sent a chill down my spine. What is this feeling?

"Just a moment, Thauce. I'm just congratulating the winner," Errol replied, then turned back to me.

"If you need work, just message me. This is my calling card," he said, handing me a card. I took his card and I nodded.

"T-Thank you."

Then after that, he turned his back and bid goodbye.

Lea and Letty squealed at what Errol did.

"See? He really likes you! Gosh, Zehra. He's a catch!"

"Letty, I knew that man liked Zehra! He's been looking at her all night. He was smiling, and I'm sure he gave Zehra a hundred points!"

I was about to respond to them when I suddenly felt Seya slump heavily against me. Alarmed, I looked at my sister and realized she had fainted. W-What... that's why she looked so pale earlier—she doesn't feel good!

"O-Oh my, Seya!" Lea shouted.

"S-Seya? Seya!" I panicked, kneeling down with her in my arms. Intense fear surged through me as I tried to wake her up.

"S-Seya?"

My heart raced in my chest, dread gripping me as I desperately scanned the crowd for assistance.

"What happened to her?" Errol asked, immediately checking on Seya.

I wiped away my tears and slipped off my heels, feeling the urgency of the situation.

"P-Please, help us," I pleaded, looking up at Errol. Just then, I noticed Thauce approaching. He bent down and lifted Seya, catching me by surprise with his sudden action.

"We're going to the hospital now," Thauce said.

"In my car, now, Errol," he ordered, while I trailed behind, my gaze fixed on my unconscious sister.

"S-Seya..."

People passing by were staring at me. I'm in the hospital now, with Lea and Letty. The doctor is still checking on Seya. So many questions flood my mind as I feel a deep fear for my sister.

Why did Seya suddenly faint? Just earlier, she was fine. She was lively and so happy, laughing and chatting with us.

I replay those moments in my head, trying to understand what went wrong. Had she been feeling unwell? I can't shake the feeling of helplessness as I watch the clock tick by, each second feeling like an hour.

Lea squeezes my hand tightly. "She's going to be okay," she says, but doubt lingers in my heart. I just want Seya to wake up and smile at me again.

"Zehra, wear this. It's cold here," Errol said. He's still here with us, he never left when we arrived. He took off his coat and put it on me. I'm still wearing a gown and my shoulders are exposed.

"T-Thank you," my voice trembling with gratitude. I looked at Thauce, who was leaning against the wall not far from us. His arms were crossed, and his cold, stern face showed no signs of emotion. I wanted to thank him too, but the words caught in my throat.

There was something about his expression that made me hesitate. Was he feeling the weight of this moment as well? Did he care? I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself as my thoughts raced.

But I was grateful to him for bringing my sister to the hospital. I didn't expect he would actually do it, considering his arrogant attitude and how acted earlier.

Yet, he had stepped up when it mattered most. I remembered how he rushed to lift Seya with such determination, as if he understood the urgency even before we did.

Just then, I heard the doctor's voice calling out, "Who's the relative of Seya Mineses?"

I stood up immediately and rushed over.

"I-I am. I'm her sister. What happened to her?" I asked, my heart racing and my hands feeling cold.

"Miss Mineses, your sister has stage 1 lung cancer," the doctor said gently. "During my examination, I noticed some concerning signs. She has a persistent cough, and her breathing seems a bit strained. While I can't say for certain about her weight without previous records, she does seem to be in distress, which can sometimes indicate underlying health issues."

My stomach dropped at his words. C-Cancer? S-Seya has... cancer?

"Z-Zehra..." I felt Letty supported me after she also heard what the doctor said.

"Since this is her first visit, we need to run some tests to confirm the diagnosis. We'll start with imaging studies, like a chest X-ray or CT scan, to get a clearer view of her lungs. A biopsy may also be necessary to ensure we understand the full extent of the cancer. It's crucial to gather all the information before deciding on a treatment plan."

The words hit me so hard that I struggled to breathe. Tears streamed down my face, and my chest tightened. It felt as if the ground had shifted beneath my feet. I closed my eyes tightly, trying to process every word I had just heard.

"Has she mentioned anything to you? Like having difficulty breathing?" the doctor asked.

I swallowed hard. My trembling lips parted, but no words came out and I just shook my head.

"I think she has been feeling something, but she hasn't mentioned it to you. I've prescribed some medications, but it's better if she is regularly checked, Miss Mineses." the doctor continued.

I didn't say anything and just lowered my head. When the doctor left, that's when I fell to my knees and cried. I covered my mouth and cried my heart out. I-I didn't know... Seya didn't say a-anything to me...

"Zehra..." Errol came to my side and patted my back, his touch gentle and comforting. But right now, no words could make me feel better. The heaviness in my heart was too much to bear. I felt like I was in a nightmare.

Here I thought life was finally being good to us, but now... S-Seya is sick, and we need a huge amount of money for her treatment.

"Zehra..." Lea called me, she's crying too when she hugged me from the back.

"E-Everything will be alright, okay? We are here... we will not leave you and Seya," she said.

I bit my lower lip, feeling the weight of the moment.

Stage 1 lung cancer? Medications?

My hands trembled. I wiped away the tears that escaped my eyes and took a deep breath. I needed to be strong; we had already come this far, and Seya could still be treated. Stage 1—there was still hope.

"S-Seya shouldn't see me like this. I need to compose myself and not cry. I might worry her," I said, and I noticed Letty and Lea nodding in agreement. Through my blurry vision from the tears, I could see the worry and pity in their eyes.

Before entering the room where my sister was, I faced Errol who was still with us.

"Thank y-you so much for your help," I said, bowing my head.

"Zehra, if you want—"

"Errol, let's go now. You have helped them enough," Thauce interrupted.

In the past five years, the man in front of me, who gave me five thousand, hasn't changed. He's still kind and helpful. The same goes for the man with the serious and cold gaze; his expression hasn't changed either.

But I'm thankful for what he did earlier.

"But, Thauce--"

"You have helped them enough, I repeat."

Thauce turned and walked away after saying that.

"Sorry about my cousin. He's been like that since birth but he's a kind man."

I felt that way too because he was the one who carried my sister earlier. B-but I do understand why Thauce acted that way. I am a stranger, and he might think that I'm just after Errol's money.

"By the way, Zehra, I wanted to help you. If you need work, don't hesitate to call me, okay? I'm praying for your sister's recovery."

Errol's words reached my heart and mind. He's really good person... but I won't ask any help for him since I don't want Thauce to think that I.'m taking advantage of his cousin's kindness. I know how some rich people think. And I really don't want to be involve again with her. I am just so thankful that they helped me right now.

As I was about to take off the coat, he stopped me.

"It's cold here, use this," he said with a smile.

"Errol, I am tired and I want to go home now."

Errol and I both turned to his cousin who I think was losing its patience already. Errol scratched his neck and bid me farewell again before approaching his cousin.

"Errol really likes you, Zehra. I saw the sparkle in his eyes, and he's even willing to give you a job for Seya. That's good for you," Letty said.

I didn't respond, only offering a small smile as I took a deep breath before we entered the room where Seya was. I didn't want my sister to see me crying or with tears on my face, so I made sure I was okay.

Since that night when I learned that Seya has lung cancer stage 1, I never took my eyes off her. I also talked to her professors at school to let them know about her condition. Seya only had a year left before graduation, and her professors were deeply saddened by the news.

I'm working really hard selling vegetables. I've started making charcoal again. Do laundries for our neighbors. Any kind of work. I tried looking for a job, but because I only finished elementary school, no one is hiring me.

Seya's medicines are expensive; that's what I struggle with the most. But I endure it because I'm afraid her condition will get worse.

She's the only one I have left, and I would do anything for her to get better. A-anything.

But as the days go by. We are really being tested because her condition gets worse.

A professor suddenly called me and said they took Seya to the hospital because my sister suddenly fainted and spit blood. I was horrified and so scared that I could barely speak.

I rushed to the hospital, my heart pounding in my chest. When I arrived, I saw the doctors working quickly around her. And when I saw Seya, my whole body went cold, s-she looked lifeless. I cried so hard, no body was with me, n-no one to hold on to.

"O-Oh God... why d-do you have to make us s-suffer like this?"

When the doctor was done I immediately entered and went to her.

"S-Seya... I'm here... Seya..."

All I could think about was how much I needed her to be okay. I held her hand tightly, praying for her recovery. All I could do was ask God, I don't know why this is happening. I can endure anything and will continue to fight through life. But why my sister? Why?.

The thought of losing her was unbearable. I-I can't...

"Please, Seya, fight for me. I will do everything. I-I will work hard for you to get better, okay?" I whispered, tears streaming down my face.

T-This is killing me slowly... seeing her like this. There's still blood on her cheek, and her hands are so cold. If only... if only I could take away her pain, I would.

As I cried beside my sister, who was still unconscious, I noticed the doctor approaching me from the corner of my eye.

"I'll be honest with you, Miss Mineses. Seya's condition is getting worse. She can't push herself too hard and she needs to stop studying. I also need to increase her medications, which are... quite expensive."

The doctor knows w-we can't afford it that's why he's looking at me with pity in her eyes. I just nodded at her while crying, holding my sister's hand so tight.

"J-Just do everything you can to save my sister, Doc. I-I will find another job to pay for her treatment. Please... s-save my sister."

Oh God... why is this happening to us?

W-Why does it have to be S-Seya?