"Can't you just stay and not go to that ball?" I heard Dad yelled at Mom who was probably busy dressing up in their room which is at the end of the hallway.

Me and my older sister, Samantha Alana, always get pissed off every time they have an event to attend to. It's either Mom will holler at Dad or the other way around.

It has been their routine. It's either Dad doesn't approve of it or Mom doesn't like the theme of that particular event.

Dad, being a politician, has to oblige and meet his constituents. According to Ate Sam, it's both for publicity and socialization.

I sighed and shut the door of my room just in time, Ate Sam did. We both rolled our eyes and closed the door behind us.

I removed my eyeglasses and flopped on my bed. I was instantly welcomed by the cool temperature of the aircon and I automatically yawned.

I glanced at the clock and realized it's already past nine in the evening.

That does it.

Sleeping time, already.

Well, mine. Actually.

***

I woke up to the weekend sunshine and to my parents' exchange of conversation at the dining area.

"There you are, Elle. Kain na. Aalis pa kami ng maaga ngayon." Mom said and gestured for me to seat across hers.

Dad was at his usual spot at the dining area. The head of the table.

"Morning, Mom." Ate Sam greeted them, kissing them on their cheeks before she sat down.

I controlled the urge to roll my eyes underneath my eyeglasses. I fought my giggles because I know what Ate Sam is thinking right now.

Bear with them, Elle. Just until they are out.

"Kain na, Sam." That was Dad's authoritative voice which Ate Sam followed instantly. She sat beside mine and we began eating.

It was the usual morning exchange. The how was your week and what do we plan to do today.

It was both comforting for them to do it to us and quite exhausting having to pretend to like what they want us to do.

I am on my fourth year in high school and about to graduate in three months time. I have been eyeing Stradborgh University for my target dream course.

But, it seems like my parents have other plans for me.

I sighed when they were out of earshot. Ate Sam raised an eyebrow at me asking, "Problem, sis?"

I shook my head and smiled, "Wala, Ate. Balik na ako sa kwarto ko."

"Wala kang lakad today? I thought you're off  to check some lens for your camera, Elle?" She asked again and stood up.

My eyes shone brightly at her words, "hala, oo nga!"

"Want me to come with you? Philip won't be here until this afternoon. Let's go to the mall and buy your lens!" She exclaimed.

If there is one thing I love about Ate Sam is she knows me so well. I will always love her and look up to her as my sister.

"Are you sure, Ate? Hindi ba pahinga mo ngayon?" I asked again, this time.

Ate Samantha is a licensed nurse in the District Hospital nearby. She usually has her days off on weekends that's why it surprised me to have her offer to come with me today.

"It isn't everyday I get to bond with you. I miss you, Michy!" She said hugging my sides.

"Yuck, Ate!" I protested to the name she used to call me when we were kids. "It's Elle, okay? As in euw!"

Ate Sam laughed, "come on. We're leaving by ten later, alright?"

I nodded and began rummaging through my closet for my clothes.

Will finally have something to look forward to today!