Darkness, all I see is darkness.
What's happening? Why is it so dark? I can't feel my hands, my body, I can't see anything but... I can hear faint sounds I can't make out yet. It sounds so far but slowly, it's getting closer. I can hear the noise getting louder with every second passing by.
"Miss Gonzales," I heard faint soft voices.
My eyes... it feels heavy. What's that? What are those loud beeping sounds and... those footsteps are trying to awaken my consciousness, right? I m not entirely sure yet I have a gut feeling about it. I can barely feel my body and my head feels like it's floating in the air.
"Miss Gonzales." Again. I heard them calling an unfamiliar name.
It took a while before I finally managed to open my eyes. I roam my eyes around trying to familiarize myself with the place I'm in-a white small room with monitors, ventilators, and oxygen masks in my nose and mouth. Hospital. I must be in a hospital, I tried to adjust my blurry vision and blinked my eyes multiple times trying to improve my vision. I saw two human figures standing beside me wearing a white uniform with a tray of medicine in their hands.
"Call the doctor," the petite fair-skinned woman who I assumed was a nurse beside me commanded the other curly-haired male nurse standing by the door.
How did I end up here? I forced my eyes shut and tried to recall how I got into this predicament. But all I could feel was my head pounding crazy while I moaned in agony. But still, I tried to remember what exactly happened when a flash of whitebeam blinded me. I felt my heart throbbing loud and fast as I gasp for air when I remembered everything.
I-I'm alive? I survived? Everything else was blurry but I am sure of what led me to this situation... and it's all because of my stupid decision.
"I'm Khryss Zhandee Mocoy. Your attending doctor, you can call me Dra. KZ, Miss Gonzales," a lady-in-white said while offering her hand for a shake, and I presume she is the doctor they were talking about earlier. "How are you feeling now?"
I fixed my gaze on her hands, which were motionless. It took her a bit to realize that I had no intention of accepting her hand. She's slow for a doctor, tsk. She faked a cough and sweetly smiled at me.
"I'm glad you finally woke up. You've been in a coma for two months," she continued looking into my chart. "So, Miss Gonzales I need you to follow this pen just with your eyes, okay?"
As an answer, I nodded. She moved her pen horizontally, and I did what she instructed.
"So, tell me, how are you feeling Miss Gonzales?" she spoke as she jots down some notes in her mini notebook.
"I'm feeling a bit lightheaded but overall, I could say I'm okay..." I trailed off upon a sudden realization. "Wait, I'm sorry but what did you call me again?"
Doctor KZ's brows met as she stared at me, puzzled, then returned her gaze to her record book.
"Miss Gonzales, what's wrong?"
That. That name again. And come to think of it, where is Dad? I started feeling wary of this woman calling herself a doctor. If I were under this confusing circumstance, my father would never leave me. Something doesn't add up here.
"What do you mean Gonzales?"
She remained silent and stared at me for a few moments while I waited for her to respond. What is going on? I could feel my palms sweating and growing cold.
"Can you tell me if you remember what happened to you?" She responded slowly and softly, her gaze fixed on me.
Yes. I had an accident. I'm not sure why she's asking, but I'll answer anyway since I need to hear her responses as well.
"I had an accident," I replied confidently. My heart racing as the night almost died looms over me. "I was driving and almost hit something, and the next thing I knew, I am here being mistaken as 'Miss Gonzales'."
She nodded her head before holding my hand tightly. Why is she acting all touchy now?
"We will be conducting some tests like MRI and CT scans," she said. "But I suspect you might be experiencing post-traumatic amnesia. I understand that this is overwhelming and a big shock to you but we are here to help you."
Amnesia? Is she crazy? Or am I just in a freaking reality show?
"Is this another of Misty's petty pranks?" I looked around looking for some hidden camera or something. "Ha-ha-ha, very funny."
This couldn't be serious! This must be another prank of that naughty older sister of mine who doesn't act like one!
"I'm sorry, Miss Gonzales."
She stared straight into my eyes without faltering. I was lost for words and all I can think of is she was definitely not qualified to be a doctor when she was playing a joke on her very confused patient.
"What? I am not up for some petty jokes with you or with Misty. With all due respect Doctor KZ but you got the wrong person.
My name is Elena, Elena Perez. So, what are these absurdities you are spouting?" I asked her with conviction despite the confusion.
"You may have suffered a brain injury during the incident, Miss Gonzales. It's not uncommon considering the injury which led you to be in a coma for two months but rests assured that I will help you regain your memory," she explained. What an awfully good liar.
She gripped my hand strongly and smiled reassuringly. Why does she insist that I am the Gonzalez that she mentioned when she talked about who she thought I was? I'm aware of who I am! I am Elena Perez.
Elena Perez. That Gonzales she talks about whoever she is and this doctor, is not to be trusted. To treat a patient like this is beyond insane.
"Don't worry, Miss Gonzales. I will help you in retrieving your memories and living a normal life," she responded gently.
I'm not sure what she's talking about, but why does she keep calling me Gonzales? What memories is she referring to?
My memories are still intact! I don't need her to assist me in retrieving my memories! I need her to call her father!
"I will be making regular visits, Miss Gonzales," she stated while opening the door to go out of my room.
I remained silent. I'm literally stuck wondering why they keep calling me Gonzales. I have no relatives that are from the Gonzales bloodline.
"Where's my dad, nurse?" I asked the nurse who was left with me.
I was hoping to see mom. I was hoping she'd turn up and tell me this was all a big misunderstanding. I was hoping deep down that she'd hear the news and come to see me. After being in a coma for two months, I wanted to believe there was a chance she'd come back. I'm still her daughter, and every mother worries, right?
"Apart from your friend, Yummie, who used to regularly visit to check on you, no one has visited you since you were hospitalized, Miss. No relatives or direct family members have either, and according to your records, you live alone," he answered without pausing.
What the hell is happening here? All these unfamiliar names. I looked up at my body which was already very small and losing too much weight. I almost appear ghostly pale. I tried moving but I could barely move my body. I need to know what is happening here. I'm sure they are mistaking me for someone else
"Excuse me but I need to go to the comfort room, nurse," I told the nurse politely.
The nurse assisted me towards the comfort room. I was much weak that I leaned against the door. And as I entered the restroom, I began to evaluate my current situation. I woke with my memories intact, but the doctor believes I have amnesia of some sort. Letting out an exasperated sigh, I combed my hair with my fingers. I only just awakened, but it feels like I've been up for an eternity.
A large rectangular mirror drew my attention. I shut the door and stared blankly in the mirror. And when I recognized what was in the mirror, my eyes widened-
Oval face, small narrow nose, thin pale lips, straight long brown hair, and dark brown eyes; a face unfamiliar to me. Fear gripped me and I couldn't help but scream at the top of my lungs.
My head is still processing in a daze. I could feel hot liquids flowing down my cheeks.
"Miss, are you okay?! Is something wrong?" The nurse asked me in a very worried tone pounding on the door. "Please open the door!"
"Y-yes. I'm alright. Don't mind me. I was just... surprised," I muttered the last word to myself.
This can't be happening! Who is this girl I'm seeing in the mirror? This is me? Is this Gonzales? I reached for the faucet with trembling hands and turned the water on. I went out in a daze, unable to believe m eyes.
My mind was racing as I returned to my bed. I couldn't sleep last night. I can't quit thinking about it. What the hell is going on with me?! Why am I completely different? What have they done to me? This is not me, I mean the real me! I mean yeah, I am me but this body since when did I-My thoughts were disrupted when I heard three knocks on the door.
I turned to face the door when I saw a familiar annoying face. As expected, it's the doctor from yesterday.
"May." She smiled sweetly at me and I arched an eyebrow at her. "Let's start the assessment."
I rolled my eyes heavenward. It's a miracle my eyes have fallen out yet after rolling my eyes a lot of times since I woke up. No, it feels like I am still in a nightmare. Who is she calling May?
"I'm Elena. Elena Perez," I sternly replied.
She sighed and locked her gaze on mine. Her brownish hooded eyes were full of compassion and sadness as she stared at me. She's more of an actress than a doctor. She can definitely win an Oscar award.
"Look, May, I know it's difficult, but I hope you understand that we're just trying to help you, and I'm trying to help you as your doctor," she pleaded. "Give us the chance to help you. That's why we are here."
I let out an exasperated sigh. I don't understand what she wants to help me with. There's only one plausible theory I could think of. She's doing this to brainwash me during my confusion. A very elaborate research study, I guess. I have read this somewhere. Them playing mind game isn't that impossible.
"Doctor KZ, if you truly want to help and support me, start by telling me the truth. My memory is absolutely superb." I glared at her, emphasizing every word. "I recall everything, including the accident, so I don't need you to assist me in regaining my memory because I remember everything."
"I understand your confusion, but this Elena Perez is not who you believe she is, so let's take things slowly-"
In irritation, I scraped my index finger causing it to be numb as it bled. No, they don't get it. This doctor may be fooling me into accepting her lies. The person who did all this is definitely meticulous, their plan is almost flawless. I would almost believe it but they can't fool Elena Perez. They can't fool a Perez. I am not that gullible.
"May-" I interrupted whatever she was about to say and prompted her to get out of my room.
She let out a heavy sigh before complying with my order. If she really wanted to help me then she should start by calling Dad since she doesn't even know how to listen. I don't want to hear any of her nonsense. I want to see Luke. So, not even a fatal accident can make Mom see me again, ha. Well, I'd understand Mom, she never cared anyway. But, Dad? He can't be not here. Something is definitely wrong here
I just exhaled loudly. I have far too many questions. I clenched my teeth. Urgh. It's beginning to hurt again. The papers I need to sign and review are probably piling up while I'm stuck here playing this ridiculous game with these people! Someone knocked again and entered my room, interrupting my thoughts. Why are there so many people knocking on my door and entering my room in the morning?
"Miss Gonzales," she started speaking while looking at her record book but I cut her off.
Who in the heavens are they calling Gonzales?! No! I won't give in to their brainwashing! This might be some kind of mistake. I know who I am!
"Get out," I angrily shouted. She hesitantly stared at me.
"But Miss-" I glared at her once again.
"I said get out!" Surprise was evident in her eyes.
"B-But-"
"Which of my simple words do you not comprehend?! Are you stupid?" I scoffed at her as she rushed out of my room in a panic.
I pulled my hair out in frustration. Is there no sane person left in this place?! Is this some kind of comical hospital? I thought again as I looked out the window opposite my bed. How did this happen to me? What did I do to deserve this?
I saw a pair of old couples sitting at the bench outside my window, the old man was patting the old woman's head as he warmly smiled ear to ear. Luke. I miss you. Where are you? Why are you not visiting me? I suddenly felt hot liquid flowing down my cheeks. Have you given up on me too? No, what am I doing? I lightly slapped my face forcing myself to regain control of my emotions. I can't let this situation control me; I closed my eyes to calm myself down.
A familiar scent suddenly caught my attention; that manly cologne I am very familiar with, is it-Luke? I opened my eyes and saw someone standing by the door-that posture, I know it was Luke! What is he doing? Why is he walking away? Why is he not turning back to me?!
"Luke!" I tried calling for his attention.
He's walking away... further. No! Luke! Come back! He's fading away- slowly... I jump out of my bed and run as fast as I could to chase after him. Don't! Why are you leaving me too? Don't leave me, please. I desperately chased after him and when I was finally a centimeter away from his hands, someone grabbed my right hand.
"May," a deep horrifying voice sent a shiver to my bones
It's Doctor KZ! No! No! Stay away! I opened my mouth to speak but no words would come out. Luke! Help me! I was struggling to escape from the grasp of the doctor as she held my hand too tight. I looked at her and begged her to let go but she just gave me an evil chuckle.
"You will never escape, May," she proclaimed in a very terrifying low tone.
Suddenly her appearance changed. The sweet smile she had turned to a horrifying grin and her soft eyes turned to eyes filled with void. No! Stay away! I wanted to scream but I can't find my voice. My body feels heavy. Her body grew bigger like a shadow covering hints of light in this dark void.
"May!"
I woke up suddenly. Breathless and sweating like a shower left turned on. A dream... it was only a nightmare. I looked around, but I didn't notice I fell asleep. It's already dark. I need to get away from here. I am not safe here. This hospital... it's insane! The people here are insane! I need to run away! I need to get out of here!
I looked at my left hand. I slowly pulled out the needle on my skin and felt a sharp pain. I took the hospital towel that was given to me and wrapped it around my hands. Feeling weak, I stood up and started walking towards the door, out of the room. I'll go crazy if I stay here too long. I don't know what they did to me, to my body but I'm going home... I'm going to escape this psychotic prison.
I cautiously looked around the hallway. The hall is packed with busy nurses scattered around assisting patients of all ages. The white tiled floor was full of dirt and muddy footprints. Is this a hospital or a wet market? This place is too crowded and noisy! I shook my head... no, this is not the time to think about unnecessary stuff. This whole ordeal is actually working to my advantage. With all the chaos this means I can slip away easier from this place. I need to do this. I've got to get out of here. I was about to take off when someone grabbed the hem of my dress.
"Big sister, what are you doing?"
I focused my attention on the boy who was holding the hem of my dress. I sighed in relief, it was like an anchor was lifted off my chest. That almost gave me a mini heart attack.
"I-I'm-" I stared at him, stuttering.
I thought a nurse caught me but what I saw was just a small boy with black spiky hair, a small pointed nose, and white pale skin about 5 to 6 in age. Who is its guardian? Why is he by himself? Children should not be permitted to roam the hospital grounds. This is not a mall. Especially since this hospital is a total wreck, this kid could easily get lost!
Oh, wait. I have no time for this!
"I'm sorry but big sister needs to go," I said and walked away as fast as I can.
I am so not good with kids. I couldn't stop thinking about the small footsteps I heard behind me. I arched an eyebrow as I saw
the little boy following me. Now what? Is he trying to act like a dog?
"Go back. I'm leaving," I said irritably. I'm in a desperate situation.
What if they notice I am not in my room? This kid is a nuisance! I was never fond of kids in the first place. Their so-called innocence and happiness annoy me the most. They are just little creatures oblivious to how the world works and just cry to get what they want.
"Big sis, are you looking for your real body?" He asked me with all seriousness in his eyes.
What? What is this kid talking about? Real body? A thousand possibilities flooded my mind, does this kid know something? Is it possible that this is not my body? My real body? Is this some kind of soul-switching like in a fantasy movie or maybe a body swap on some human experiments like I've seen in sci-fi or perhaps just an amazing work of plastic surgery?
"What are you-" I was about to ask when someone suddenly spoke from behind me.
"Johnny, there you are!" We were interrupted by a middle-aged woman dressed in a blue formal long sleeve with printed flowers paired with her fitted white pants. "I've been looking all over for you."
"Nanny, help us; we're looking for her original body," the boy said, pointing at me and pulling the hem of his nanny's shirt.
"Oh, Miss, I'm sorry for Johnny; this boy enjoys making up stories; you know how kids love fantasies," the woman said apologetically and laughed awkwardly before walking away leaving me hanging and frozen to where I'm standing.
I mentally gave myself a slap. I can't believe I just believed a child's story. If Granny heard of this, I'd be doomed. Am I really this desperate that I fell for a child's fantasy? I let out an exasperated sigh but waking up with this new unfamiliar face? They might've done something, plastic surgery or a weird human experiment is the most plausible theory.
I don't know what truly happened or what they did but I will find out-whatever it is.
No one ever messes up with a Perez. I was brought back to my senses when a nurse passed by in front of me. Oh, no! I almost forgot. I rushed through the doorway hoping they didn't notice me. I breathed a sigh of relief when I was in front of the exit. No one noticed me. Good! I was about to step my left foot out when someone tapped my shoulder.
"Do you happen to be the one that those nurses are looking for?" When someone suddenly spoke from the side of the entrance where I was standing, my eyes widened. "You really look like trouble."
I shifted my gaze to him and saw a young man with his hands in his pockets. He's wearing denim pants and a white V-neck shirt showing off the manly build of his body, his black cap hid his face but judging by the way he stands and speaks I can tell some women would drool over him. I'm good at judging people, I was trained for it so I know he's different. He's different but why does he feel so familiar in a way? What is this man doing in this freak hospital? Doctors are insane, the patients are crazy, so why is someone like him here? He doesn't look like some psycho like them. He slowly raised his head and when I had a clear view of his face my head feels as if all the blood rush into it. Wait, I know this-
"You?" I shouted before I threw a heavy punch in his face.
He sat on the floor in no time as a result of the impact of my hit. Tsk, tsk, tsk! Even a weak woman may knock him out. Confirmed: appearances can be deceiving. This man is anything but normal.
"Wait, what was that for?!" He yelled as he clutched his bleeding lip.
"You've earned it, you jerk!" I frowned and walked away from him.
That guy. Tsk, I really hate him. Wait, hate is an understatement, I despise him. Why is he in that freak hospital anyway? Wait- don't tell me he's behind all this?! That means-ugh! This is more serious than I thought! My life is in danger! He actually dared to do it! I really need to escape as fast as I can.
I looked around... this place looks deserted. Long empty highway with not many passing vehicles. I got more impatient as I clicked my tongue. I'm getting more convinced this is some scheme from that guy to ruin my life. This time he went overboard, seriously? A plastic surgery? He can change my face but he can't change Elena Perez. No matter what face I have, I am Elena Perez. I looked around and saw that there are a few taxis but most of them are occupied.
I tried to take a vacant cab, but they didn't stop; it was aggravating! What is the matter with them?! I was simply compelled to walk. I need to get out of that prison-like freak hospital even more now that that jackass is still there! I can't believe Elena Perez is in this precarious condition. I can't help but sigh again. That guy's plot is becoming more daring and nefarious. He made certain that I would have a difficult time, but Luke and dad will not allow this to happen. I'm sure they've done something by this point.
"How long should I walk?! And where the hell am I?!" I screamed in frustration.
I looked around... I don't even see any signboards; it's as if I'm in a remote countryside or an urban setting in a horror film. I'm practically encircled by tall trees and bushes, with no trace of a living human except for passing vehicles, which clearly have no intention of aiding me. I've been walking for hours and still have no idea where I am.
Loud long sharp noises of crickets and frogs are the only thing that breaks this suffocating silence. The road is bumpy and rough and the farther I walk, the more isolated the place is becoming. But on the bright side am already far from that place. They will regret doing this to Elena Perez! Doing some weird experiments in my body. I'm sure of it. They are trying to brainwash me with false information after taking advantage of my accident. They will really regret they messed with a Perez. I'll make sure of it.