Love is Strange

I just sighed when I saw the contents of my wallet. That's it for this week. Salary is still far away, I have to save. I got into the jeep that stopped in front of me. I sat at the end so I could get off easily and handed over the payment.

After a few minutes I went down. I opened the gate of the apartment building where I lived after I left the house. I started climbing the stairs, because the building doesn't have an elevator. Even if it is four stories and has a rooftop. My unit is on the second floor so it's not a hassle for me to walk up the stairs.

I was already in front of my unit and was getting the key from my bag when someone grabbed my shoulder.

"Blind!"

I immediately looked at it and saw Wella. The niece of the landlady, who is Injang and my friend.

"It's very appley," I said and continued looking for the key.

"Are you late today mare?" he ignored what I said.

Seeing the key, I opened the door and entered. I also turned on the light. Then Wella followed and closed the door.

I sat on my lone sofa to take off my shoes. Wella also sat next to me.

"Maybe you have a date that's why you came home late?" he asked.

"You're jealous of that."

"Oh so, there is?! You're crazy! You said you wanted to study and now you have a job?!"

"Damn it! There were so many customers at the Ramen House that I got home late."

I stood up to put my shoes in my shoe rack.

Because today is Tuesday, I should be home by 3-4pm. But because of the number of customers, it took me until 8 pm to get home. Because Ramen House is not 24/7 unlike 7/11.

"Just make sure Lily Iris! Oh, have you eaten yet?" I shook my head. "I'm fine! Wait and I'll get you downstairs. I just waited for you to get home so I could eat with you."

I let him go out of my unit to get our food from the chin. I went into my room to clean my body before eating. After getting dressed and getting ready, I left the room.

I found Wella already serving at the table. I went there and sat down. The fried chicken and rice are already served.

"Oh, dear queen, eat to your heart's content, right?"

I stood up again to hug Wella. I don't know what would happen to me without Cali.

"Thank you," I said and tightened the hug.

I felt him return the hug and gently caress my back.

"You're like everyone else! Besides, it's not free! You'll pay me with your salary so I can shop. The pay day sale is coming!"

We laughed before starting to eat. After finishing, I washed up what we ate. While he was sitting in the living room watching my small TV.

I sat next to him when I finished washing. We talked about our day before deciding to go to sleep. He still has school and I have work. I cleaned up other clutter in the living room and kitchen before entering my room.

It was cold when I entered because I opened it earlier before I cleaned my body. I just did skin care for a while then turned on the electric fan and turned off the light. To this day I am still not very used to the way I live now. But I can't do anything. It's better than living at home with the animal Henry.

I need to save. I have to endure.

***

The next day I woke up early for work. I showered and got dressed before leaving the room. I put my bag on the table to get coffee. I took the 3in1 instant coffee and brewed it.

If I used to have a coffee maker and the equipment inside the kitchen was complete, now I put up with instants because of the lack of equipment. After drinking coffee, I brushed my teeth again before leaving the unit.

My duty is from 8:30 in the morning to 3:30 in the afternoon, I am on the morning shift. That's Monday to Wednesday. My night shift is Thursday to Saturday, it's 6 pm to 1 am. Because Ramen House is not 24hrs.

When I got down to the first floor, I saw Aling Injang sweeping. I approached him to shake hands.

"Good morning, aunt Injang."

"Hey Iris, you're still here. I thought you and Wella came in together."

I call her Tita Injang when I'm in front of her. Which Injang when it's just me and Wella.

"Wella needs to be as early as possible today because she has quizzes. You know, teachers at her school, she's too early."

Which Injang laughed. "That's why he's only awake at five o'clock. Oh hey, go ahead and go in, maybe you'll be caught."

When I arrived at the Ramen House, there were only a few customers because it was just breakfast. Lunch and around 10PM we usually have many customers.

It's lunch time in just a few hours.

"Here's your order Ma'am," I said.

"When did you sub for a while. I just took a bathroom break."

"Alright Iris."

Quickly went to CR to pee. When I came back the phone rang behind me. I was not going to pay attention to that because boss M was the one who answered that. But he was not at his table and everyone was busy. That's why I had no choice and answered that.

I tasted first before speaking. "Moshi moshi! Good afternoon, Ma'am/Sir! This is Jutsiken Ramen House, may I know your order?"

"What can I say here, Hyungs?" said on the other line.

"Edi, you will probably say your orders!"

"Just read what's on the paper."

"Hello? Uh, three Shako-"

"What Shako? That's Shio Riki!"

"Is it Shio? I don't understand Wakin hyung's letter. Sorry Miss, let's take two. Three orders of Shio ramen, two Shoyu, and one Cashu rice."

I wrote that on the paper and asked for their drinks.

"Soda in can three, mango juice two, and one pineapple juice.

"Okay Sir, I'll repeat your orders...." I repeated what I wrote on the paper. "Then, may I know your address, Sir?"

"Ah, here at HBLE."

HBLE?

Why did they think of delivering foods since that big entertainment company has its own cafeteria?

"Okay Sir, your orders will take for 15-20 minutes. Is that okay?"

"15-20 minutes, hyungs!" The person I was talking to shouted. I put the phone away, the pain in the ear!

"Yes, as long as I can eat! I'm sick of eating at the cafe."

"But wait, are your orders correct? Are there seven of us?"

"Hello miss? Sorry for the noise. How many orders did I order?"

"It is only for six people."

"Hala shet!" I put the phone away from my ear again.

"Shut up Riki!"

"You're mad at Ethan hyung!"

"Hahaha ! He even suggested that we have ramen!"

"His favorite is ramen and you didn't order him? Bonding isn't like that!"

I was about to speak but I was interrupted when I was on the other side of the line.

"Please add two more orders of seaweeds and one frozen gyozan. That's all thank you."

Huh? Why does the voice of the person I'm talking to seem different?

"Uh, is this still the one from HBLE?" I asked.

"Yes."

I gasped because of the depth of his voice. I wrote down his additional order before speaking.

"Okay Sir, that would be 3,587 pesos. What mode of payment would you prefer, Sir?"

"Cash on delivery, please."

"Okay. Thank you for ordering. Your order will be there after 20 minutes."

I hung up the phone but he spoke again.

"You won't ask the customer's name?"

Of course. "What's the customer's name?"

"Ethan."

Then the call died.

Attitude amputees.

***

I continued to work and the customers increased more and more. After five minutes I took a lunch break. I went to the staff room and approached my locker.

I was taking off my apron when the door opened so I looked over there. I saw Lexie come in.

"Sister Lily, boss M said you should be the one to deliver at HBLE first. Because they don't have brother Dino yet. "Besides, you're also the one who took the orders."

It's really boss M.

"But I'm on break?" I whined.

"I told the boss the same. But he said it was you. You can take a break after you deliver."

"I won't take a break after I deliver. I'm going home."

I didn't do anything anymore and hailed a taxi that would take me to HBLE. I even asked the driver to help me carry the paper bags.

Outside, you'll be dizzy from the sight because of height of this building. It has 23 floors. The building is made of brick. From the 5th floor up you can't see what's inside. Because it's so tinted.

Before we could finally enter, a guard stopped us. Because it's so big HBLE is a company, their security is tight. It's also to protect the company, their workers, and artists.

"What are we doing inside?" asked the guard.

my ID before answering.

"Delivery Brother, it's for..." I looked for the receipt in the paper bag I was holding to see your customer's name. "It's for Sir Ethan, brother."

"Ah, you're one of the trainees. Oh okay Ma'am, let's just check what you brought."

He let us inside and went to their mini guard desk. While brother Guard was checking the delivery, I paid the driver. . I also gave him a tip of 20 pesos. Char.

I looked around inside HBLE. The ceiling of the ground floor or lobby is high with a large chandelier in the middle. Outside, the color of the building is gray and black. and at the top there were metal letters HBLE. The

inside is a mixture of black, white, and gray colors. There are two elevators on the left side and the comfort room is next to it. In the middle is the big reception desk area. On the right side is the staircase and their lounge area.

There is a man sitting there. He is wearing a black cap. He has his arms crossed and his eyes are closed. He is wearing a loose green checkered top and a black sweat pants below.

"Okay Ma'am all goods now. Proceed to the reception," said brother Guard.

"Okay, thank you, but I'm going to leave it here first, right?"

"Oh Ma'am, I really leave the shipments from outside here. The person who ordered it from you will pick it up here."

"Oh, is that so? All right, thanks."

I went to the reception desk. Ateng greeted me with a sweet smile in front. It looks like she's not stressed about her work. I hope everyone.

"Good morning," I greeted.

"Good morning too, ma'am How may I help you?"

"I'm from Jutsiken Ramen House. Sir Eltan has a delivery."

"Eltan? Wait a minute Ma'am. I'll just check if we have a personnel named Eltan."

I nodded to Ate. Then she typed on her computer and I saw her frown.

"I'm sorry Ma'am but we don I don't have Eltan here. Are you sure that the delivery is for here?"

"Yes, yes. Please just check again."

I'm upset if Eltan doesn't order from me. Maybe the Ramen House has been pranked again?

"We only have Anton, Benson, Castor and Ethan Ma'am. Based on what I've searched."

"Oh Miss!Ethan, I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

It's stupid again. It's Ethan. Where did the Eltan come from? I left the receipt on the guard's desk.

"Oh, okay Ma'am. I'll just call it upstairs."

While my sister was talking to someone on the phone, I looked around once more. It's beautiful, how much is their electricity bill? It's very bright.

"Okay... thank you, " My sister put down the phone and faced me. "I'm sorry Ma'am but Ethan's not around. But it was confirmed that he did order from your Ramen House."

"Oh, is that so? Alright...but what about the payment?"

"Oh right! Here Ma'am fill this form for the payment."

I immediately filled out the paper and handed it back to my sister. I thanked her before leaving.

But before I could leave, I heard someone call my name.

"Lily ..."

I looked behind me and saw the man with his eyes closed earlier. He is now standing with both hands in his pockets.

I frowned when I didn't see you call me. That's why I walked out. I

stretched before looking for a taxi back to the ramen house. When I saw a taxi coming, I was about to raise my right hand to stop it. But something grabbed me and pulled me in front of him.

I didn't immediately process the incident, I just stared at the man who pulled me. The man I didn't know. But he was the man sitting in the lounge were earlier.

I want to look away, but those eyes of his....

He has those crescent shaped shinning eyes. Perfect nose, thin lips and I cannot believe I am saying this but....this man in front of me...was one of the most perfect creation of Him.

I was already tall at the age of 17, my height will pass at the age of 20-23. But I looked up at the man in front of me. And he's still holding my hand.

We stood still for a few seconds and it was interrupted when we heard someone honking.

I broke free from him and faced the one who honked, that taxi.

I left him there and approached the taxi. I opened the door and was ready to get in but someone closed it. That guy on the sofa.

What is the problem?

The taxi honked again so I opened the door again. But just like before, Sofa Boy just closed it again.

I frowned at him and shook his hand. But he was quick and grabbed my hand. He went to the front window and knocked on the window.

"Would you ride or not?" he asked.

"Yes-"

"I'm not sorry."

Why not?! How can I get back to the ramen house?

"I'm sorry! You're disturbing the work. If you have a fight with a shota, don't involve the working people!" The driver shouted.

"I'm really sorry," said Sofa Boy and handed over a five hundred peso bill.

Then the taxi left and the two of us were left. I watched the back of the taxi leave.

Have a fight? Have a sweetheart? who? And work!

I faced Sofa Boy. "What is your problem?"

"Pay," he said.

"Huh?"

He took some money and handed it to me.

I don't get the situation. Why would he give me four thousand? Is it obvious from my face that I need money? Even strangers give me money?

"Pay for ramens."

"Yes? Did you order?"

"Yes."

"What is the customer's name?"

"Eltan," he said with a laugh.

"Eltan?"

"Isn't that what you said earlier at the reception desk?"

Shit! Is this Ethan? It's embarrassing that he knows the name I mentioned is different.

"Ah, Ethan!"

"Oh, it's good you know?"

"Yes Ethan by the way."

"Over again?"

Confirmed. This is your Ethan earlier. Attitude, at least in his personal attitude.

"Ah, okay. But your change-"

"Keep the change."

wow Feeling close to you. He has been interrupting what I say and do.

I smiled at him. "Thank you, sir. Enjoy your meal. Order again, right? Thank you again," I said and turned away from him.

Just as I turned my back on him, a taxi drove by. I stopped it and got on.

When the taxi was a little far away, I looked at the back. I saw that Sofa Boy was still there. But he is no longer the only one standing there. There were three guards and a man with him.

Even from a distance I could see him looking at the taxi I was riding. It seems that his companions are saying something. But he was looking at what I was riding.

Ethan. Trainee of HBLE. So, in the future if he debuts, it will be one of the craziness of the youth.

I laughed at myself. What youth? It's too much #titafeels, I'm young too.

***

When I arrived at work, I immediately deposited the payment I got to boss M. He was even surprised because I gave too much. I just said that the customer's tip was too much for the Ramen House.

"The HBLE trainees are very brave. It's enough to tip. But if anything, while they were training, they got paid," he said.

"They're making money even though they're not artists yet?" I will ask.

"Yes, according to what my friend said. His brother is a trainee there.

I just nodded and said goodbye.

"After you break, you can go home.

"Then you're going to deduct my salary again? Never mind! Even if I want to go home early and rest, no thanks. I'm going to finish my shift."

Before, he also told me that I can go home. Then I went home. On salary day, I wondered why my salary was deducted 250 pesos. He told me that I didn't because I finished my shift. So since then, when he says I can go home, I don't go home.

"It's true Lily. There is no deduction from the salary," said boss M with a laugh.

"Sure?"

"Yes."

"Okay, I'll go first. Thank you brother," I said.

"Go ahead. Take care on your way home."

I said goodbye again before going to the sav staff room. To tidy up and get my things.

***

While in the jeep, I was still wondering why Boss M is so smart now. Usually because he was very rude back then. And sometimes the schedule is tight.

But even so, I am very grateful to him and to Cali. I met Cali there because she also works there. But we are only on duty together on Saturdays.

I am thankful to Boss M because, even though I was too young, he still accepted me. During my first months I was only in the kitchen. Dish washer.

Because I was used to a luxurious lifestyle, it was difficult for me to adjust. Not a day goes by that I don't break or break anything.

Now I am a waitress. Sometimes a cashier.

I'm in the unit and I'm already dressed. I sat on my small sofa to think of something to do. And I remembered that I don't have anything to eat here.

So I took my wallet to go grocery shopping for the week. When I got down to the ground floor I saw which Injang.

He was in the reception area. Sitting while watching a TV series. When he felt me, he turned to me.

"Oh Iris, is it your morning?"

"Brother Mark sent me home early today. You know that it's only once in a while to be serious and kind," I said laughing.

"I really like that man. The next time I scold him, tell him that he is married so that he doesn't always have a hot head."

"Oh, I don't have any plans to get married. I'm too busy with work. Maybe I'll get married at that ramen house."

Which Injang laughed again. "What a pity for his father if that's what he's planning."

"I'm sure. He's fine. I'll go first," I said goodbye.

"Why, where are you going? You should just rest."

"Well, my fridge is empty. That's why I thought of going grocery shopping."

Aling Injang stood up from sitting.

"Why?" I will ask.

"No! It's good that you reminded me. Come here hija, I'll give you something."

I didn't come right away. He bent down and took something from the cabinets underneath.

He placed the three eco bags on the table. It's full of food and stuff. Then he went to the small drawer and took out a white envelope.

I seem to know it. I came closer and sighed.

"Your mom came here a while ago. But I didn't let her go upstairs because I knew you were still at work. So I was told that you should just go to work. Maybe at the ramen house that's it now and I saw you weren't there."

"Aunt Injang. Didn't I say 'don't accept them or let them in here?"

"But son, your mother just wants to see you. It's been two years, Iris. Don't you miss your Mama? Talk to her, son."

I didn't answer. Because I know that the moment I open my mouth, no words will come out. But cry.

"And besides, your uncle Henry wasn't with me, so I let your mom go. I also let you go because it looks like your mom is sick. Poor thing, she'll be waiting for you outside. It's still hot today. Then I'll go see you even at the ramen house."

I'm still speechless. I was just looking at the eco bags in front of me.

"Oh he's fine. I promise this is the last time I'll let your mom stay, okay? Just take these."

Ever since I left home, I have never spoken to or faced Mama. A few weeks after I ran away they found me here. They try to take me but I don't agree. I can't even leave the apartment. because I don't know anything cheap to rent. The only money I have left is my allowance.

They also always bring food or money. Which I don't accept. Which Injang accepts no'n. And it was only from him that I found out that mom had bought my unit. Even though it was hard to accept, I just accepted it. I told myself that I would just pay what he paid for my unit. When I have a job.

Before I entered the ramen house, I first worked at which Injang so that I could graduate from secondary school.

I told Mama not to let her see me if she still doesn't believe what I told her that day.

Because of my pity for aunt Injang, I will just accept those. I also thought that I could save money.

I saw Aunt Injang's face light up and she even helped me fix them.

"I'm sorry, hija. I really feel sorry for your mother and daughter. I don't even know the whole story between you and your mom. Remember that Wella and I are here for you, okay?"

I nodded and smiled lightly. "I'm sorry. And thank you for understanding," I said.

I only brought one eco bag up. Aling Injang said he would just send the rest of my unit up.

I opened the door and went straight to the table. I put the eco bag there and sat on the chair.

"You can do it, Lily. Just a little. Just be patient. Don't give up," I reminded myself.

I wiped the tears that appeared. Nope. You won't cry anymore.

Just a few seconds later, someone knocked on the door. I immediately went to it and opened it.

"Thank you," I said to brother Felipe. The one who collected Mama's gifts.

I put them inside one by one. That's when I noticed that there were two sacks of rice. Apart from the big eco bags.

I organized the canned goods, snacks, beverages, breads, and other stocks in my mini pantry and put the meat, chicken, fish, vegetables and fruits in the refrigerator.

When I finished I drank water and said goodbye. After eating, I went to the room to clean my body again.

Right after I finished in the room, the rice was cooked. I ate and had corn beef. After finishing, I went back to the room to sleep.

I am emotionally and physically drained today. I just want to rest even just for a couple of time. But before my eyes closed, I couldn't help but cry.

***

A knock from the door woke me up. I slowly opened my eyes and rubbed them. My eyes are still sore from crying earlier. I looked at the clock on my bedside table.

It's 7:47 in the evening. How many hours did I sleep?

I went out to see what was banging on my door.

"LILY IRIS OPEN THE DOOR! I KNOW YOU'RE STILL AWAKE!" Wella shouted outside.

"I brought some wine, Lily! Let's just shoot it! Let's not go to school and work! Let's get drunk now!" Cali shouted next as they continued to slam the door.

Which Injang must have told Wella what happened earlier. Then Wella turned to Cali.

I know the door should be open because we are bothering the neighbor. But I don't want them to see me like this. Again.

They will also stop later.

"Please Iris, open it," Wella cried.

"We are here. We are with you, always. We will not leave you," said Cali.

I just leaned against the door. I couldn't stop crying again because of what they were saying. I sat down because of my crying.

I covered my mouth so they couldn't hear me outside.

"Iris..."

We also cried for a few minutes in front and behind the door. Until I heard the voice of which Injang was sending them home.

I slowly entered the room and lay down on the bed. Still didn't stop crying.

And I can't stop thinking about what happened to Mama and me. Because until now, I'm still mad at him.

I can't accept that he trusted someone we don't know more. Than me who is his son. He supported and defended the person more... he shouldn't have

morning I didn't feel like leaving my bed. I lost the will to act. I'm too lazy to go to work. So I took out my cell phone to text brother Mark.

When I opened my cell phone, I had many notification texts from Wella. They also made 15 missed calls to me. I also had a missed call from an unregistered number.

I opened Wella's texts to me.

Wella:

Are you out 2 days early??

Samgyup is my 3rd treat because the feedback on our presentation is good, yay

Come here to PBC samgyupasalan haaa. Cali and I will wait for you if we go first. Or text me if it's

3:45pm

??? Did you OT again????

It's ok that you're late, I'm used to it

4:56pm Aunty

said you're home but you didn't show up, are you mad??

We've been here for a while, Iris. We are hungry huhu

5:43pm

Cali and I are going home. We just took out to eat.

6:20pm

We're almost at the apartment

6:38pm It

's the apartment. Get ready for me, lily iris, get ready with your excuse of 500 words.

6:49pm

WE ARE RIGHT ACROSS YOUR UNIT

OPEN THE DOOR

LILY

LILY IRIS WHAT?

7:28pm

I read Cali's next.

Cali:

Oy, he said he's gay, hehe

, dinner is free again before duty

3:40pm

leaving the house, can I see you? What are you? lucky???? Bleh you're going to PBC alone

3:51pm

gay I'm hungry

go for free dinner

Lily???

5:50pm

Huhu my samgyupv ended up in jabe it's your fault!!!!

When I'm hung up on the jabe, I'll eat you. You exchanged the unli

pork, chicken, and beef with the bee in the village???

I don't want 2pc spicy chicken

6:17pm

Iris I brought wine. Your favorite, I still owe it to aunt Injs.

If you don't go out there, I'll make you pay for it

. And what I'll pay for the alcohol is for us to pay for the electricity!!!!

It has been three months since I received food and money from Mama. I used that to be able to study at this entrance.

I should be in my second year of college now. But due to the lack of money, I was not able to study.

I'm at the mall today shopping for school supplies. I was also enrolled last week with Wella. I also enrolled in his school so we could be together.

Wella is one year older than me. He is in his third year of the teacher training course. While I'm a first year BS Psychology student.

I have a big reason why I took that course. That's because of my dad.

Since I already have a job, I did online schooling. I will no longer need to attend school classes for lectures, exams, and quizzes. But I will need to attend other school events. Like intramurals, college fest, school foundation, and others.

Wella and I are fine. After that day, the next day I was surprised when I left the room, they were already in the living room. Then when they saw me they immediately ran to hug me.

After buying everything I needed, I went home to rest.

***

The speed of time.

Now it's the end of the semester. And in just a few weeks I will be in my second year.

I'm in my room now, doing my late school works. I was busy writing when someone knocked outside.

I stopped writing to open the door.

"Is it still possible?" Wella asked when I opened the door.

I didn't answer and just turned my back on him. I went to the fridge to get water and drink.

"Miss Fiel talked to me Lily. She said you missed a lot of exams and other activities. You also don't have grades in your two major subjects," she said.

I know that. Miss Fiel told me that last week.

"Miss Castilian, I am sorry to say but what's happening to you, hija? Most of your grades are failing. Especially your majors. Your subject teachers told me that you're not even passing any activities anymore," said miss Fiel.

He sent me here because he said he had something to say. This is it.

I am aware of that. That's why I can't do school activities anymore because I got into trouble at the ramen house. Then I don't have any money to buy school requirements.

"I'm sorry, Miss."

"You're one of the most brilliant students in your department. And I honestly have high expectations of you. But now what happened, Lily? And it makes me sad knowing that you're failing."

Failing. It must have been wrong for me to study right away even though I already had money. It's because I'm arrogant. I thought I could.

"I know and I'm doing what I lack," I replied to Wella.

"That's exactly what I told Miss Fiel. I told her that you can't even go to work anymore because you're doing what you lack. I also said to give you more time to finish everything. But..."

"But what?"

He sighed before answering. "They gave an extension, but they say it's only until tomorrow. You know they're tight on the deadline because the semester is about to end."

I took a deep breath.

Only until tomorrow.

And if I don't pass tomorrow I will stop again.

I just nodded to Wella.

"Lily... you want me to help you so you can finish right away? Shall we send Cali to help?"

I immediately shook my head at Wella. "No more. You still need to revise your thesis, don't you? And Cali still has that duty. So don't. But thank you."

"But your studies...how's that going?"

I tried to smile at Wella. "What are you doing, that's fine. I can still enroll next time. I just need to save. Then I won't work anymore and just focus on studying."

Wella convinced me several times that he would help me and I also refused several times. Even if the five of us work together, we won't be able to finish it right away.

After Wella left, I went to the kitchen sink to wash myself. Then I wiped my face.

I went to my room and put away what I was doing earlier. Wasteful.

Too bad again.

But I can't do anything. I'll just come back next time and make sure to improve.

Sometimes because of the hardships, I think of just going back home. But just thinking about doing that, I feel fear.

Is there a foot like that? You feel afraid of places, things, and people that you have been with, visited or experienced for a long time. Just see them or get close to them and hear their voice. You are immediately afraid. You are afraid that you will have trouble breathing and that you will close your eyes and cover your ears. Everything is difficult.

I created my email for the school and said I was going to drop out.

***

The next day, I acted as if nothing happened yesterday. I got up, cooked brunch, and cleaned my entire unit.

In the early morning I got myself ready to go to work. I need to go in to save. I also need extra income to accelerate my savings.

When I arrived at the ramen house, I went straight to boss M's office. I knocked three times before opening the door.

Boss M's eyes met mine and his eyebrows met.

"Good afternoon," I greeted.

"Uh, good afternoon too. May I ask who are you?"

"Wow ha. You're awesome brother. I'm your favorite employee," I answered before sitting in the chair in front of him.

"Axon is my favorite. Because when Axon is absent, he says goodbye in person. Unlike others, he only says goodbye via text," he said grumpily.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what to do first. Besides, I'll just waste the fare to get here and then you won't agree."

"So can you make your own decision? Hi Desisyon, I am Mark Andrew Salazar owner of this ramen house. How may I help you?" He said sarcastically.

"It's Boss M. Don't worry, I'll go OT to make up for my five days of absence," I said.

Boss M let out a breath.

"It stinks," I said and covered my nose.

"By the door, you can go out and find your replacement."

"This one! It's so hot-headed! Are you and your jowa fighting?"

Boss M

"I don't have a jowa! Go to work!" He will push me away.

"Lily, close after ten minutes," said boss M.

"Okay man," I answered.

I laughed when I saw him wince. It's really stupid. So there is no joy.

I continued to work until we closed. I went to the staff room to tidy up and get my things.

When I left, I went to boss M's office again to say goodbye. I knocked three more times before opening the door.

I didn't go in because I just wanted to say goodbye.

"I'm leaving," I said.

"Alright be careful," he answered while focusing on the computer screen. He was still looking down while scrolling the mouse.

"Hey, I don't love you, don't worry."

Because of what I said, he immediately looked at me and glared at me.

"Go home."

"Alright man. Just shoot it. When you wake up tomorrow it won't be there," I said laughing and closed the door.

When I came out, I saw Cali waiting for me. We will go home together today because they want to sleep over. Then I also want to tell Cali what happened in my studies.

We took a jeep and in a few hours we were at the opposite side of the apartment. One of the things I liked about this apartment is that it is on the highway and still close to my work. So it's easy to get in and go home.

"Too bad I didn't bring wine," Cali said while we were eating dinner.

I scooped some rice before answering him. "Hey Cali, that's bad. You're so broken, aren't you?"

"Yes. You are pure alcohol," agreed Wella.

"After just five shots, you're already upset," I repeated.

Then we laughed.

"No! That depends on the alcohol I'm drinking. I'm strong with c2Gin. Then we're drinking beer?! Besides, I'm not broke! I don't have any money and I'll still be broke? You're crazy! I'm not broke broken!" Cali said.

"Why are you yelling?! You're still drunk bro!" I said.

"We're both broke!" Wella.

And speaking of...

"Do you know of any part time?" I will ask.

"Huh why? Have you stayed at the ramen house?" Wella asked.

"No," I answered.

"Why do you still need part time? How are you studying?" Cali asked.

Wella and I looked at each other before I answered.

"I've dropped..." I said softly and bowed slightly.

I even played with the food in front of me.

"Huh?! Sem Iris is about to end and you still dropped?"

When I told them that I was going to school again, Cali was very happy. He was not able to continue his studies because of the hardships of life. He was in his third year of college when he stopped studying. And prefer to help the family by working early.

So now I understand his reaction. In the few years we have been friends, we are treated like brothers. Especially Cali, because she is the oldest of us. She is like a third mother to me.

I explained to them what happened. And they immediately understood.

"That's fine. I'll just go back next school year. So for now, I want to get a job and save money. I want part time to supplement that as well," I said. "Do you know anything?"

"I will ask my boss tomorrow if they will accept a maid," said Cali. I nodded.

"I want you to be admitted to Tita again because you know that we haven't heard from Mama for five months. Then the rent payment is always delayed."

"Well don't bring that to aunt Injang. You'll just run out of plates," Cali said laughing.

"Then you're going to let him in with your boss?"

"What I'm going to say is to feed the dog."

"Hey you're too bad for me! I'm used to housework! Can I live for almost two years alone if I don't?" I said in shock.

Sometimes our friends are really our number one supporters. But usually, they are our number one bashers.

"Why don't you try your job fair at the mall tomorrow. I heard from the people I rode in the jeep with," Wella said as she washed the dishes.

Cali and I were in the living room, waiting for him to finish so we could sleep in my room.

They must be in the other room. Because that's where they sleep when they're here. But Cali said it's not a sleepover when we don't share the room.

"Okay then. What are the requirements?" I will ask. I'm going tomorrow, it's totally my day-off.

"Hmm, that's what I don't know. Try stalking the Mall's Facebook page. Maybe the information for tomorrow's job fair is posted there."

I took my cellphone that was on my mini center table in the living room. I searched the name of the mall.

Resumes, valid IDs, and other important documents are needed tomorrow

"Or just take the money that my mom gives to my aunt," he suggested.

I immediately shook my head. "I do not want."

"Alright....but if there's really nothing....come to us. Don't be selfish. Learn to share."

I nodded and secretly smiled. Even though my life is difficult, I am still thankful because they are there.

After Wella washed up, they decided to let us watch a romantic movie they saw on Facebook. I made our snacks while they were looking for our audience.

Before we went to sleep, they helped me organize the things I would need for tomorrow.

The next day I woke up early. The two people next to me were still asleep so I slowly got up. I first went to the bathroom to wash up.

After I went to the kitchen to cook our breakfast. I just cooked simple fried rice, hotdog, and eggs. Then I also made coffee for the three of us.

Right after I served, they left the room.

"Good morning!"

"The smell of that fried rice!"

The three of us sat down at the table. After that, I left them there to take a shower and get ready.

I was wearing only black slacks on my chin and an olive green long sleeve polo. I also brought a black blazer in case non-formal attire is not allowed. Mine is only semi-formal. Then I also put on my black converse. I don't have any other shoes but those and a pair of white sneakers.

"That's nice," Cali said as I left the room.

I flipped my hair and posed in front of them. "Is it alright? Can I replace Gigi Hadid?"

"You know you're going to be late, go find a job," Wella said, pushing me away.

"Oh he's fine, I know that's where everything starts. You'll be a maid first and then in the future... a millionaire!" I said.

"Then you went from cashier to Victoria's Secret Angel? You're free to dream," said Cali.

"Tse!"

"But seriously, I hope you can find a job there so you can go to school again."

"Yes mom C," I answered Cali.

"Life is colorful~" Wella continued to sing.

"To the knorr given vegetables!"

"Hey kids, you can't memorize the lyrics! You're fake watchers!"

I got off the jeep when I was in front of the mall.

I took the elevator up to the third floor. The job fair will be held there. When I arrived, I immediately saw the number of people.

The guard gave me a piece of paper and I filled it out. Then he gave me a card number. I'm at 0810 in the pick.

So it's really good that I had breakfast. Because I'm going to be hungry here.

"Number 0756!"

"Number 0757!"

"Number 0758!"

Earlier at 11:45 they gave out free sandwiches and water. It's a good thing, because there might be many fainting here due to the combined heat and hunger.

Even if the entire mall is on AC, it's inevitable that you'll get hot. Especially since you are in a crowded area.

I took my handkerchief and wiped sweat. I also looked at my cell phone camera to check my appearance. The light make-up I put on earlier is a bit messy.

So I retouched slightly. It's embarrassing to face it later looking sweaty. Maybe later the requirement includes the appearance of your face.

If you are stingy...charing. My poverty exists again.

Then I took a black hairclip and put it on my hair. Even though my hair is not that long I still get hot.

I even turned the folder I was holding into a fan to dry my sweat. For fresh looking and presentable later.

I'm still pretty close.

"Number 0805!"

"It's 0806!"

I'm finally close. I took my cellphone out of my bag again when I felt it vibrate.

I also saw the time and it was three o'clock in the afternoon. I was here at nine o'clock yesterday.

I have a text from Wella.

Wella:

Mars, let's go together if you're still here at the mall, I'll be here to buy materials for the project

3:14pm

Me: I'm

still in line huh but I'm almost

3:15pm

Wella:

Go ahead and text me when you're done, we'll wait beybeh

3:15pm

I was about to reply to Wella but I heard my number.

"Number 0810!"

I stood up and went to the front. There were three tables there and the one who called me was the one in the middle table.

I sat on the chair and handed the folder I was holding to the woman.

She opened it and I watched how the woman checked the contents of my papers.

"Hmm, so you don't have any experience other than being a cashier. You're only a high school graduate. But maybe you know how to do housework?"

"Yes, I know how to wash, wash and cook."

"What can you cook?"

Dead.

"Hotdog, egg, fried rice-"

"So basically you only know how to cook breakfast? What about soupy meals? Do you know how?"

"Yes."

"Oh, okay, what can you cook with the soup? Tinola? Porridge?"

"Uh...instant noodles," I said and bowed.

"How's the job search going?" Wella asked me while waiting for our order at Mcdo.

"Hug please," I said.

"Okay later at home."

When our order arrived, we immediately ate and went home.

I fell asleep early due to exhaustion. Sister Mary and I will meet again tomorrow. He will explain something to me about the job he is offering me.

To be honest, I was a bit hesitant to accept his offer and meet him tomorrow. But when he said the amount of the salary, I lost my doubts and agreed to meet him tomorrow.

I didn't even tell my friends, because I wasn't sure that I would really be blessed with a job when I met sister Mary.

That same night I prayed that I would have a job tomorrow. So that I can continue my studies.

The next day I woke up late. So I quickly took a shower and got dressed. While tying my shoes, my cellphone vibrated.

Sister Mary texted and said she was close to our meeting place. I replied that I might be five minutes late. Then I easily arranged myself to leave.

***

When I arrived at our meeting place, I saw sister Mary already sitting there. I approached and pulled the chair in front of him.

"Sorry, I woke up late," I apologized.

"No, it's okay. So, let's order first?"

I ordered the cheapest breakfast meal here. Then sister Mary ordered a three-course breakfast meal.

"Okay so let's start. First I want to ask if you are really determined to find a job," he asked.

I nodded twice. "I'm very determined. And I really need a job right now. I want to continue my studies."

I saw the smile on sister Mary's lips. Compared to yesterday, I feel more comfortable with him today. He is wearing different clothes now. Yesterday he was wearing an all-black outfit and even his fan was black. Now she is wearing a white top and pastel pink slacks on her chin.

"Like I said yesterday, you will invest a lot here. Maybe after two or three years of working, you can continue your studies."

When he said that, I became even more intrigued as to what my job would be. But because of the salary, an idea came to my mind.

"H-Maybe it's not about selling the body, is it?"

I was surprised because of sister Mary's sudden laughter. A few of our fellow customers looked at our table.

"No of course not, hija! You're awesome, it's a decent job and you get a decent salary too."

"I'm sorry. Something just came to my mind. I'm also a little nervous," I said shyly.

"Hija, you have nothing to fear and worry about. You are safe here," he said. "The salary is big because it's full time work. Can't you leave a job if you're hired by us?"

I immediately thought of Ramen House.

"Uh, I have one job at a ramen house. But my contract there isn't over yet," I said.

Sister Mary couldn't answer right away because our order arrived. After I landed, I immediately drank the iced coffee I ordered.

I was so nervous that I drank some more coffee. Lord...

"How about that? We need a full time worker here. Just leave that and come to me. I'm sure you'll earn double or triple with me," said sister Mary and take a bite of rice.

Even though my salary at the ramen house is not high, this is still the reason why I was able to survive alone. And then I still need to talk to Boss M.

"Alright, I've only been at my job for over a month. Can you wait for more than a month? I promise after my contract expires I will come in right away. I will not renew. As long as I am sure of your big salary."

"Oh okay, hija. Just call me right away, okay? Then we'll meet again and I'll tell you what kind of job it is."

***

Tomorrow is my last day here at the ramen house. Time is really fast now. And I still haven't been able to tell boss M about my plan.

I know he expected me to renew my contract. I tried to tell him several times because he is always in a bad mood. Then sometimes it doesn't come in. So I can't tell him.

But today I found him in a good mood on my last day. So now I will tell him before we close.

Time flies too fast. Five minutes before closing, I thought of going to see boss M. There were only a few customers.

Old habit, I knocked before entering. I caught him facing his computer screen again and holding a calculator.

He didn't look at me so I sat in the front seat.

"Brother..."

"What? Is it okay outside? Get close then."

"There are a few more customers. After them we will close."

"Why are you here? Help them there," he finally turned to me.

"I have something to say.

"Yes, I know. I will print tomorrow for your renewal."

I swallowed before speaking. "Brother Mark, boss M or sir Mark. I want to say that I am very thankful to you, because of your acceptance and help. But for now....I'm not going to sign the contract, sorry," then I bent down and played with my finger.

"Lily....I also want to thank you for being such a wonderful and good employee. If I were only your teacher, your report card would be A+. I can still recall your first day here. You were so young and immature back then. Then half of your salary goes to things that break or get damaged in the kitchen. And I want you to know that you are not allowed to leave. It's not possible, you have to renew the contract tomorrow. Because your salary is not enough for all the damage you did before. You'll pay for it, Lily."