April 20th

I

CHAPTER 1

Arci Martin

Standing at the edge of the pier platform, watching the incoming ferry board on the dock. People began to pile out. A guy in a navy coat was in a rush bumping another passenger who nearly spilled his coffee over. I sighed. I stared onto the view I was aiming to behold—The city lights gave a soft glow on the gloomy evening of April 20th. The breeze was moist and smelled like barbecue from the food stands over the corner. My mouth watered as acid burns up to my throat. I skipped my meals earlier today so I could save up some money and use it to treat myself in a me-date tomorrow. I skipped around the boulevard, watching people enjoy the night. Some were enjoying the music, others having a date, street vendors are scattered everywhere selling mangoes, peanuts, and other sweet stuff.

I fasten my pace when I reached the shady area. Creeps tend to scout women here and I do not intend of having someone hit me up. I get most glances—well, maybe because of what I look like. I sport a large blue pullover and decent black shorts paired with converse. Or maybe it's because of the knapsack filled to its limits that made me look like a runaway.

I brisk walk trying to look normal. Chill running down my spine as I saw someone reached out to me on my peripheral vision. I twisted my body away to avoid contact. “Yawa” I hissed as I fall flat into the ground and sprained my foot.

“Here, let me help you,” he said as he offered me his arm.

“I’m fine”

“You dropped this near the pier, you were walking so fast I had a hard time catching up with you”

“I—” I faced him and the light glared at my eyes. He gestured towards his hand where my handkerchief was. I squinted up to him and smiled. The light was on his back I couldn’t see his face. But his voice was deep. I took my hanky on his hands and muttered a thank you, I turned away and limp walk towards the building.

“Oh dear heavens thank you” I muttered as I reached the pavement of the building.

“Well, at least it wasn’t a creep who would offer to treat me food or suggest a good time”.

The security guard smiled up at me and I greeted him. I half-ran, half-limp up the stairs to the second floor, and entered the Infinitea store, a local hang out for students which serves all types of beverages including milk teas, frappes, and sodas. I placed my knapsack on the table of the solo sofa set, took out my wallet, and joined the queue to order.

The place was filled with customers. Well, who wouldn’t like the place if it's softly lit, air-conditioned, free wifi, and good affordable food. I placed my order and went back to my seat. I rested my head on the recliner, pinched my nose, trying to rest. The music was soft instrumental, and the hum of the AC makes me feel at ease. I internally let out a yawn and smiled. After quite a few minutes, my name was called. I opened my eyes and went to the counter to get my order. Pasta in white sauce and my favorite Original Nai Cha milk tea.

I was startled when a voice came out behind me.

“One large original milk tea, 100% sugar, and one serving of blueberry cheesecake,” he said.

I glanced up at him and quickly averted my gaze when I caught him staring at me intently.

I took my tray, turned around, and was greeted by him who didn’t move an inch away.

“Excuse me,” I said. He didn’t move. I looked up to him, annoyed. He was grinning, his pearly whites were showing. He looks familiar, where have I seen him before. The thought of him made me feel more annoyed. I hit his elbows with mine and moved along. I swear, I must resist the temptation of yelling. Making myself comfortable on the seat, I started to eat.

“Hmmm…” I moaned as I munched down my food. I resist looking around, in case he’s within eyeshot.

My phone vibrated as soon as it connected to the Wifi and saw my sister left me a message around 7 o’clock.

Raya Martin 7:06 PM Text Message

“Hey, I’ll be late. Have dinner without me.

I’ll be home very late too.

I’m stuck with friends here in Bean”

Well, today is my lucky day then. It’s still 8:45 and the store closes at 11:30 PM. I munched down the rest of my pasta, leaving my tea for last.

I refuse to ruin my mood, so I pulled out my iPad and my earphones and started sketching.

2 hours later

My neck felt sore due to my posture. I stretched out my arms and my limbs while my sketch was being printed. The Store was near closing time and there are only a few customers left. My eyes wandered around, looking for the guy earlier. He's gone. I cleaned up my mess and pass on the tray to the counter. Picked up my bag and left.

The apartment was dimly lit. I took of my converse, locked the door, and called out my sister.

"Raya, you home?"

No answer.

I went straight to the bathroom and cleaned up. Sending a text to Raya stating I was home, I checked on the drawing I made earlier and printed it with a handy printer.

I smiled bitterly as I hugged the produced photo. Tears started to fall from my eyes.

"It's your birthday, Jake. You're supposed to be 20 today. I miss you a lot"

I've been missing you too much and it hurts.