Pearl: Luminous

Chapter 2

I lost somewhere in the constant misery of craving.

I dance and dance, and twist everything I hear, feel, and think until the edge comes closer and in a moment of peace and bliss, I take a bow to my audience.

I take one step ahead and put a smile on my face, feeling satisfied with my show, as I heard several claps from audience.

Today is the day of my competition in a ballet, I had expected my parents to come, to watch me, to support me, and cheer for me but they weren’t there. They didn’t even get home last night nor send me a good luck. Perhaps they’re really busy.

As I entered the backstage, I saw Kianne, my competitor, she gave me smirk. Ever since we were kids, she is always been my competitor but she never won against me. She’s with her mom and dad, they looked happy, I keep them away from my vision and sit away from them.

I did perfect what I had practiced yesterday in my grandma’s house, I had executed every moves, and twists gracefully. Speaking of them, Grandpa said they’re here watching. I was about to get my phone to send them a message but, participants was called in stage for awarding.

“Good luck honey, I’m sure you’d win”, I heard Kianne’s mom talk to her.

“Thank you mom got to go” she replied.

I proceed to stage and we stand there.

Later on, third place was announced, it wasn’t me neither Kianne. I felt my heart, beating so fast but I composed myself to stand confidently and put my sweetest smile to audience.

The host spoke, “Second place goes to Ms. Kianne Cruz!”

I felt her stiffened.

I look at her and give her a smile, “Congrats kianne.” I said.

She didn’t even looked at me and moves forward to get her awards.

“Our First place goes to Ms. Veronica Pearl Smith!!” the host announced.

I won.

They gave me my trophy and certificate, followed by the picture taking.I put a smile and look to audience.

I saw my grandparents, they are there, smiling and felt proud for me. I smiled back at them.

They congratulate me, and somehow, I felt proud. When I returned to backstage I saw Kianne’s parents. They’re laughing and look happy as they hug kianne.

I look down at my hands holding awards. I felt tears pooled in my eyes.

I just turned around and kept walking as tears drop in my left eye. I couldn’t see my way.

In the middle hallway I bumped to someone,

“I’m sorry!” I said. I look at the person, I think he’s a man, I couldn’t see his face, because the hallway was too dark.

I could feel his stare, I was about to walk away, but I felt someone hold my wrist, it was him, handled me the handkerchief, I looked at him and I couldn’t see his face because of my tears.

“I don’t need it” I said.

“…”

“I’m sorry but I don’t need it” I Repeat.

“…”

“I said I don’t need it, don’t you know how to speak?” I patiently said. Can’t he speak?

“Throw it away then” he said. I was stilled, I felt my heartbeat has stopped in his baritone voice.

Then, He walked away and left me in the middle of hallway wondering who the hell he is.

What a jerk!

Why would he give me this, if he wants me to throw it away?!

Does he think that I can’t afford to buy handkerchief?

Why would he give me this?

Or does he think I need something to wipe my tears away?