LAST YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL

Chapter 12

MARINA

Mum was undergoing therapy.

That was the best news I've ever heard. I think that's the best news of the year so far. That's why the alcohol bottles disappeared. I'm so glad I'm no longer going to be dealing with an alcoholic for a mother. Now if only dad would stop being such a workaholic and be a father to his family. 

Baby steps, Marina! Baby steps.

Mason was still skeptical about mum's declaration and I don't blame him. Mom once told us she was gonna quit but the next day, she was passed out over bottles of liquor. But I believe this time she is gonna quit. 

My after school job at the cafe turned out to be not do bad. It took some part of my free time but I had no complaints. It helped me save some money. First day of school turned out just as I expected, horrible. I can barely wait for the school year to be over. Everyone was talking about their summer break, what they did, the parties they attended and their many love interests. Their experiences made my summer holiday look lame. 

While my classmates were getting their hair and nails done, I was getting kids to go to bed. While they spent their time at a beach, I spent mine hiking muddy trails. And while others were having the time of their life, i spent mine deworming dogs. I definitely enjoyed Eastern Springs Campout but after listening to everyone recount their experience for the summer for hours in end, I really hoped no one would ask me what I did,over the summer.

After mum's declaration over dinner, I cleaned up after seeing Mason off. He didn't want to sleep over despite persuasion from Mum. Dad came when dinner was almost over, he just acknowledged us with a nod and left. When mum asked if he wanted dinner, he said he ate in the office. Mum and Dad are strangers to each other, I think they are civil to each other because of us. Dad and Mason barely talk to each other, its just a stiff greeting and that's it. Who would ever believe that Dad and Mason were so close. I can only hope things get better at home, before my parents decide to get divorced. 

Britney was so excited about her delightful summer partying and 'training' with the cheerleaders. They are finally going to let her perform with them at the games. On one hand, I'm happy for her. On the other, I'm kinda mad she was MIA all summer. She just laughed it off.

"Marina, I'm really sorry. But I got a new phone as my old phone was misplaced. I just found it yesterday. Can you believe it?" Her explanation sounded kinda fishy to me but I dismissed it. She didn't even bother to ask me about my summer holiday or how camp went.

As I lay on my bed reminiscing today's events, I can't help but wonder if what Julya said about Britney is true. But Britney has always been a good friend to me, supporting me. I'm meant to support her, not betray her by making out with,her boyfriend.

Betrayal brings to mind Javier who has successfully avoided me today. Well, two can play that game, after all I really want to avoid him.

JAVIER

I don't believe this. 

TO BE CONTINUED....