I woke to the kiss of sunlight creeping through the curtains. Its warmth caressed my cheek, and I squinted against the brightness.
Stretching my body, I realized my robe was gone. Last night, I'd worn only my pajamas and the robe, yet now it lay elsewhere. After a few moments of staring blankly at the ceiling, I finally gathered the drive to leave the bed. I stretched again, flexing muscles honed through frequent workouts, as well as private lessons in martial arts and weapon-based self-defense. Those old days took a toll on me, and i became paranoid, i can't let my guard down.
Being an adult feels liberating, yet vague. No more buildings called school or university, no one's care to rely on. You live freely—but freedom comes with responsibility. Your orders must be followed by yourself, by those under you, and alongside you, each acting with free will yet bound by obligation.
Life is a mystery, and that's what makes it thrilling. I've prepared myself—but the unexpected is inevitable.
…
It was 6 a.m. I finished a light workout and decided to jog in the park. The air was fresh, the breeze perfect, the sun not fully risen. The chill didn't bother me, even in my shorts and compression shirt. A colder gust brushed past, but I ignored it.
…
After returning, I showered and rested, letting my muscles relax. Turning on the television, a soft meow and a nudge against my leg startled me—Mr. Patches. Finally, I could care for him fully, giving him my attention now that I had my own place. Though I could've settled in my childhood mansion, I decided to just visit when loneliness struck, or when i want a temporary escape from adulting.
...
"I told you to take them after you eat dinner. You never listen," came a voice.
"You left so early, didn't even say goodbye."
"Are you sulking now?"
"Why not?"
"You're acting like a child."
"But I'm your baby."
"You corny asshole."
I chuckled at his annoyance.
"I'll bring Mr. Patches over; he's a social butterfly, the customers will love him."
"Alright, take care. Drink your meds and vitamins, or I won't go home with you."
"I will. I love you."
"I love you too."
…
I hung up and lounged on the sofa, letting the news play in the background.
Breaking news: Today in Metro Manila, at the renovated SM Mall of Asia, a body was found on the rooftop. Investigators have said it appears to be a failed suicide attempt. The man was identified as Fernando Ambram…
Hearing my uncle's name, I froze. The glass in my hand slipped, shattering on the floor. It couldn't be him. My uncle would never take his own life—I knew him too well.
Tears trailed down my cheeks as the world seemed to tilt, the weight above me pressing down. My heart raced in my chest, each beat loud and urgent. I clutched my necklace, as if it could anchor me, as if it could stop the world from hating me again.
I was pale as death.