Just in time, Chang comes into the kitchen and took four plates with him, two on each arm (he had good balance) and left. I took the rest and followed after.
Soon enough we were all sitting in silence, eating breakfast. The atmosphere was so quiet that we all could even hear the voice of our breaths, in and out. Unable to handle the awkward tension, I stood up with a start and felt everyone's eyes on me. I looked at each of them in the eyes and slowly began speaking.
"I know this is a very emotional time, not only for me but also for all of you since he was like a family member to all of you too but... I am sure he would be very upset to see us with our faces looking down and mood so down in the dumps. He was a wonderful man and an enigma to all of us, all we know is he lived his life in a happy-go-lucky way and would like all of us to continue our lives that way too. It's better, I think if we all try to smile more and try our best to get over his absence then sulking over it forever. So...", not being able to think of anything to speak further, I trailed off.
"I know this is the most difficult for you Luc. We are sorry. We all will cheer up, not only for Grandpa Max's sake but also for yours. You know we all love you so much.", Sophie said
The rest of the gang agreed and suggested that I should take the next week off and I was more than happy to agree. I needed some time to think after all.
The next day was the funeral. I met with all the acquaintances and then after it ended they all left saying they didn't want to impose when I knew the better part, they just didn't want to take the responsibility of my studies on their heads. Not that I was asking them to. I was better off finding a part-time job and taking care of myself than living with any of those snobby relatives. Yes, snobby.
The rest of the day went into changing a few settings in the house and washing laundry, doing dishes, and some other basic home keeping activities. Now I could tell how much work Grandpa did in a single day. It was almost shocking.
Since I was going to stay at home for the next two weeks home, I thought it better to keep it clean and presentable just in case any of my relatives got an idea of dropping by without calling in advance.
The next two weeks go by in a jiffy with being bored most of the time, or watching TV or rereading Grandpa Max's letter.
Next morning, I get up and leave for college without having breakfast. Now that I think about it, today is 18th February, that means there are only one month and 17 days before my birthday. I guess that is still too far to think about.
As soon as I get out of the car I met with stares and whispers about the recent incident. Irrigated, I glare at all the people staring at me and whispering behind my back. I head inside and again feel the stares of the people following me. Unable to handle it, I go to the men's room and give myself a pep talk that I am fine and this is nothing and I can handle it, there is no problem.
I head to the class and am the center of attention once again, I sit in the back seat, alone. This is one class no one from my group attends, History.
You are okay, you are okay, this is nothing, just ignore them, it's alright, nothing is wrong
These thoughts are going around my head when the bell rings and I hurry out of the class with my head bent low.
AUTHOR's NOTE:
Hi to all my lovely readers, I know this is a little short and boring compared to the last chapters but I had to cover some basic topics so this is it. Also, please for give me for the one day late update, I have my half yearly going on so its hard for me to study and write at the same time. My sincerest apologies!!!
Love
Eva