UNEXPECTED LOVE

Hello, Rena. Can you come over to my condo? Elisha asked her friend. Of course I can. Especially if it’s you. I knew you had something to say, that’s why you called me, Rena replied. An hour later, Rena arrived at Elisha’s condo with food in her hands. She knocked. Elisha opened the door right away. Thank God you came so fast. I really have a lot I need to tell you, Elisha said. Her face was serious. Rena was already eager to listen. Let’s sit down first before I tell you about my problem, Elisha said. What’s the problem? It sounds serious, Rena asked. I don’t even know how to solve this anymore. It’s personal. Rena gave a soft laugh. What else could your problem be? You have everything — fame, wealth, a beautiful voice, businesses, and more.She was praising her friend. Elisha looked at her. Do you think all of that can help me with my problem with my family? Oh... it’s about your family? I thought it was about your career. It is about my family. Elisha’s voice dropped. They don’t treat me like part of the family. They treat me like the family’s financer. How can you say that? Rena asked. Because they only call me when they need something. Especially when they need money. And after that, nothing. They go silent again. But if I’m the one asking for a favor, they’ll say they don’t have time because they’re busy. Elisha looked down. That’s when I realized... all they need is my money. Sometimes I even think maybe I’m not really their daughter. Because they don’t love me. And if I wasn’t rich, I’m sure they would’ve thrown me out. That’s when Elisha started crying. That’s awful. Don’t say that. You know, someday everything will be okay. Go ahead and cry. I’m here. I’m not leaving you. Thank you, Rena. It’s good that you’re here to comfort me. You’re the only one I consider family now. Thank you so much, Elisha said through her tears. What are you talking about? Who else would help each other if not us, right? So stop crying, because you’re making me want to cry too. And you know I hate crying, Rena joked. Elisha laughed at what her friend said. A few seconds later, the phone rang. Wait, Rena. I’m going to answer this. Go ahead, Elisha, Rena replied. Hello? Who is this? Elisha, it’s Mama. Ma? Is that you? Do you need something? Yes, Elisha. I need something right now. It’s for your sibling’s tuition. And I also have bills to pay for the house. I’m going to the salon tomorrow too. The money you sent last Saturday is already gone. Elisha glanced at Rena while answering. Okay, Ma. I’ll send it now. I have somewhere to go tomorrow. Okay, Elisha. I’ll wait for your transfer. After the call, Elisha walked over to Rena. What do you think? See? She doesn’t care at all. Even when I told her I’m going out tomorrow, she didn’t even ask where I’m going or who I’m going with. I’m not saying she doesn’t trust me... but even just asking would show that she’s concerned about me. Rena patted Elisha’s back. Just let it go. It’s better if you just relax.

A few moments later, there was a sudden knock on the door.

“Do you have a visitor coming?” Rena asked Elisha.

Elisha answered, puzzled. “I’m not expecting anyone… except you.”

She thought maybe it was just the condo maintenance, here to clean her place.

But Rena insisted on opening the door herself.

Elisha thanked her and lay down on the sofa.

Rena cheerfully opened the door and greeted whoever was outside with a bright, “Good morning!”

Then she froze. Her eyes widened.

“Clark! It’s you! We thought it was the maintenance,” she said, surprised.

“Yes. Is Elisha here?” Clark asked Rena.

“She’s here. Come in so you two can talk,” Rena replied, stepping aside.

Clark walked in, and Rena followed behind him.

He saw Elisha lying on the sofa and slowly walked toward her.

“Elisha… are you still awake?” he whispered softly.

When Elisha opened her eyes, she gasped and immediately sat up.

“Cla… Clark! Is that really you?” she shouted.

“Yes, it’s me,” Clark said with a warm smile.

“I thought you had a business meeting and weren’t coming back until next week?” Elisha asked.

“The meeting got canceled, so I rescheduled it,” he replied. “And when I found out you didn’t go to the studio, I got worried.”

His voice was gentle, full of care.

“I told my manager I’m not going in today,” Elisha said.

“That’s good. I’m glad you’re okay,” Clark said, then pulled her into a hug.

Rena suddenly coughed loudly.

“Well… looks like I’m not needed here anymore,” she teased with a smile.

“Looks like you’re okay now, Elisha?”

“I’m gonna go. I have a date too, and Monica’s waiting for me downstairs.”

“You and your mood swings,” Elisha said fondly to her friend.

“Are you sure? It’s okay if you stay longer,” Elisha said.

“I want to, but Clark’s here now… and Monica’s waiting for me,” Rena answered.

“Okay then. Thank you for your time. Enjoy your date,” Elisha said with a smile.

Rena go...