Jay-Jay's POV
Exam week was brutal.
Everyone was tired. Everyone wa and I barely saw each other. Not because anything was wrong—just life, books, late nights, and exhaustion stacking on top of us.
The final exam ended quietly.
Some papers went well. Some didn't. Nobody wanted to talk about it too much. Results would be out when school resumed—in one month. A whole month of waiting.
A whole month of freedom.
That evening, we all met at the park. The air felt lighter, like the campus itself had finally exhaled. No uniforms. No bags. Just us.
"So," Calix started, stretching, "what are we doing this holiday?"
Suggestions flew around.
"Travel somewhere."
"Sleep."
"Go beach hopping."
"Road trip!"
Then Sienna spoke up, calm but excited:
"Why don't we just spend the month at El Nido? It's perfect for a group of friends—beaches, lagoons, and private villas. No stress, lots of space."
Everyone looked at her.
"Sounds perfect," Adrian said, grinning. "Sun, sea, and privacy. Count me in."
Keifer leaned toward me, whispering, "I think she just stole all the fun already."
I smirked. "Try to survive, Mark."
He laughed. "No promises."
Phones came out. Pictures of El Nido, the villas, crystal-clear waters, and white sand beaches were shared. The group buzzed with excitement.
It was decided.
Tomorrow morning. 8 a.m. sharp. In front of the school gate.
As we left the park, the tension of exams faded like it had never existed. Laughter replaced stress. Plans replaced deadlines.
Later that night, Keifer sent me a message.
Keifer: Better pack light.
Me: Why?
Keifer: Because you're going to steal all the attention anyway.
I rolled my eyes, smiling despite myself.
Exams were over. Plans were made. Tomorrow, the holiday would begin. And for the first time in weeks, everything felt… easy.
Too easy.