Chapter 2- The Misfortune

Vida’s POV

"...May we now call on the judges to present this award to the winners of the poster making contest, as well as our very own Principal of Hiraya Manyari High School, Mr. Arnold Glinoga," said the emcee.

Everyone was instructed to form a line for each school. But here I am, sitting with Faye on the left side of the stage. She's the one who urged me to stay here tho. Mr. Brenzon is probably looking for me again.

"Vidaaa, it's happening. I know you'll take first place, believe me," she exclaimed cheerfully.

I just stared at her before moving my gaze to the crowd. Everyone was busy listening to the emcee and patiently awaiting the results of the winners, especially those who had participated in the competition.

"...Criteria for judging; relevance to the theme—30%, originality—25%; creativity—20%; color harmony—15%; and visual impact— 10%. With the total of 100%. And now the results are finally here..." the emcee peek at the card he is holding. 

"The winners will be given certificates and corresponding prizes, so are you guys ready?" Screams and chanting echoed around the court.

"The third place goes to... Hiraya Manyari High School!!"

Because of the emcee's announcement, I immediately stood up, as did Faye. I, like her, expected a higher rank, but we failed once more. I was supposed to take first place.

Faye gripped my cold hands. "It's okay, Vida. Go on stage, and I'll take pictures of you," she said, smiling. I returned her smile and inhaled deeply.

It's okay to always lose because I have my best friend. She's so adorable!

I walked up to the stage, grinning from ear to ear as the principal handed me the certificate and an envelope containing the prize. I looked around the crowd, looking for Faye.

"Vidaa!! Smile!!" she exclaimed, genuinely shocked me. This lady...

But my smile faded as I fixed my gaze on someone. It's the guy I met earlier. That guy called 'Dion' by the guard.

Tf? What is he clapping for me? Is he making fun of me or what? He's pleased because I only came in third place? Tsk. That jerk is really a jerk! It was entirely his fault. It's all his fault!

"Miss Resores? Miss Resores? You have to go," the emcee said, bringing me back to reality. I was so embarrassed that I bolted from the stage. I'm aware that everyone's attention is focused on me. Argh! This is sickening.

When I was sure I was out of the court, I came to a halt, and that's when I realized Faye had followed me. I tried not to cry so she wouldn't be concerned. This day has been exhausting and unlucky!

Dion's POV

"Dion, congratulations!"

"Congrats!"

"Thanks. I really appreciate it."

I thanked everyone who congratulated me. I don't really expect to win at all. I only entered the spoken word contest because it's my passion.

"How are you doing, son? Come to my house earlier. Let us rejoice in your vicariousness. " 

"Sure, Dad."

"Dion, let's go. Mr. Rodrigo's waiting for us," Janet said, my schoolmate.

"Ah, I'll be right there."

"All right, just be quick because the bus could leave at any moment."

"Mm."

I was about to leave when someone caught my eye. That lady... She's frowning again, as she always does. She appears to be waiting for someone.

Why was he staring at me like that earlier on stage? I was simply applauding for her. Tss. What an attitude. But she's cute tho.

Before I was dropped off by our bus driver, I took out my phone and pictured the girl in the distance. My smile suddenly flashed on my face as I took a picture of her.

Vida's POV

"Hi, Grandma! Look, I bought your favorite veggie," I said cheerfully as I entered the apartment.

"Oh, Vida, you know I have a lot of favorite vegetables. Which one?" she replied.

"Guess it, Lola Clarita."

"Eggplant?" she asked, and I laughed hysterically.

"What are you laughing at, huh?" her brow furrowed.

"Nothing, Lola. I’m just amazed at you. Sometimes I want to believe you're a fortune teller," I noticed her cheeks widen.

"Enough of that, how's the game?"

"Game? What game, Lola? You mean a poster-making competition?"

"Oh, yeah, I forgot about it anyway. How about that? Did you win?"

I remained quiet for a while. "I'm so sorry, Grandma."

Suddenly, I just felt that Lola Clarita was hugging me. She caressed my hair and kissed me on the forehead. 

"Vida, you don't have to apologize. You don't have to be sad. I know you gave it your all. You don't need to be upset because losing is a necessary part of success. "

"It's not about that, Lola. It's about something else."

"What is it? About the prize?"

I nodded, then covered my ears as she suddenly pinched it. "Grandma?"

"I told you not to worry about money. I told you to concentrate on your studies. You really are a hard-headed one! " I just laughed at her, and later, we ate our dinner

Jokes aside, I must admit that hearing what he told me made me feel a lot better. She doesn't want me to be concerned about money because she always says she will take care of it. 

Sometimes I just don't tell her. All I wanted is to help her. I don't want Lola to have a lot of problems because it could be harmful to her health.

The other day...

I told Lola that I would buy her medicine at the pharmacy first, and she agreed because she had also mentioned that she was going to see a friend. I just walked because the pharmacy was close to our apartment, and I wanted to save money.

After I bought it, I considered simply walking back because the weather was pleasant and not too hot. Another thing, it'll be an exercise as well.

I was walking along happily when I noticed the new store I was about to pass.

'Julius & Shane Art House'

When I read the signboard, my heart seemed to leap with joy. I immediately entered such a shop. When I finally got a look inside, I was astounded. Different art materials were organized, and it fluttered my heart even more.

"What are you looking for, Miss?"

I took a long time to respond to the saleswoman because I was still looking around.

"Wouldn't it be nice if I could have it all?" I smiled.

"Mm, yes, so what are you waiting for, Miss? Go buy some now."

I faced her and looked at her sadly.

"Ate, I'm not sure. I don't have enough money."

"What do you want, Miss? pencil? Is it a set? Here, Miss. This set is so cheap, and the quality is good. Your 100 pesos is enough. " 

She showed me a set of pencils ranging from HB to 12B, as well as some paper on which I could practice shading.

Hmm, it appears that I'll save my money here and buy it; after all, I worked hard for the prize yesterday; I'll buy this one.

"What is it, Miss?" Will you purchase it? "

"Yeah... yeah—"

"How much is this?" I turned to face the source of the voice.

"You?!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening.

"Me?" he asked, pointing to himself.

"Yes, you! What brings you here?” He gave me a puzzled look as he frowned. "Why am I not allowed here? Isn't it a store?"

My annoyance causes my head to heat up. I'm tempted to punch him! I was about to say something, but I restrained myself and simply walked away. The saleswoman called me a few more times, but I ignored her and continued walking.