I have a childhood bestfriend in the province. We were together since Grade 1 until we reach junior high. Everyone was wondering, why our friendship lasted, knowing that she was a consistent honor student while me--okay, not to mention. I admit, I am not good at everything. Her name was Anika. She's the first person, I have shared my secrets with. Aside from Aunt Polly, I've already told her that I have a crush on this certain guy.
She had always reminded me that I should stop pursuing him because that was very impossible to happen. Hence, I am aware that this person I admired the most, was already taken. Yes! He had a girlfriend, so I was contented being his stalker on his social media accounts. I was very happy with his achievements, even he didn't notice me.
9 years ago...
Anika and I were playing at the terrace of our house, when Billie, my importunate neighbor, came close to us.
"Anika, can I join?" As he pleased, but I just glared at him. I knew him already, he's not doing good.
"Hailey, can we let him join, so that we are three. I think, that is more fun!" As Sky suggested.
"No! I don't like him. He is so unruly."
"Please------ promise I will behave!"
"Hailey let him join!"*puppy eyes*
"Hmmp! Okay fine! But, I will watch you!" As I warned.
Later when we were in the middle of playing...
"Hailey there are worms in the flowers we have picked! "My friend shouted worriedly.
"W-what did I touch a---- while ago? Mommyyyyyy!" I screamed, then I saw Billy running outside while laughing. He's so bad, but Anika chased him. I was left alone. I cried,----- until I saw a hand, holding a handkerchief, wiping my tears.
As I raised my head, I saw a boy?
He looked so worried and he seemed older than me.
"Don't cry! You will get ugly." He smiled, showing his deep dimple on the right cheek. There I noticed, how cute he was.
"Oh, my son is so sweet." Is that his Mom? They shared the same features.
" Hailey, this is Kensui. Can you say thank you?"
"T-thank you." I hardly opened my mouth saying those two words. For the first time, I was get embarassed.
"And she is my best friend, she's your Aunt Sophie."
"Aunt Sophie?"
" But you know little girl, you don't need to bother yourself calling me Aunt. Call me Mom. Right Nicole?"
"Mom? But I only have one Mom."
"It's okay Hailey, so that, I can be your brother?" Kensui asked.
"Really? You can be my brother.Whoah!" That time, I was very happy. Now, I have a brother.
"Mommy, is it okay? That Kensui, is now my brother?" I sounded like a daughter asking for a permission to eat chocolates.
"H-huh? Maybe,it's better to continue what you are playing. Oh here's Anika. Kensui you can join them. We are to prepare your snacks. Sophie, let's go. There's something we need to talk to."
And just like chocolates, she didn't agree to my request.
That moment, I haven't realized, they have already talked about their plan, when we were too young.
A decision that will change our lives. That was an arranged marriage---with my long time crush.