Seraphina Diaz

She woke up at her usual time. Sitting up, she glanced outside the window out of habit. The sun was not yet risen. She tilted her head upwards and closed her eyes. After whispering a small prayer to the almighty, she lowered her feet to the floor. 

As always the whole house was asleep as she padded towards the kitchen. Silence so profound, that she could hear her dad snoring through the door. Usually, people get irritated by their parents’ snoring but for her, it was a source of reassurance. It let her know their parents are well….they are still here. She had an obsession with checking up on her parents at night. The fear of something happening to them would sneak up on her in the stillness of the night, compelling her to slip into their room and hear them breathing. Yes, she was creepy in that sense. 

She entered the kitchen to make herself coffee.

Watching the sunrise while sipping her piping hot coffee was her favorite moment of the day. The girl threw the bread crumbs on the ground, knowing very well the birds would soon show up.  

Being the eldest child of her family, she wasn’t oblivious to her responsibilities towards her parents. Her father, a man of few words, carried his burdens in silence. She had only seen his emotions break through once when her mother met a fatal accident. She has been in a wheelchair since then. Hundreds of dollars were being spent on her care. Explains why they were still not wealthy enough despite working for Serranos. It’s not that Serrano was not helping. In fact, Mrs. Serrano was the reason she was studying in a high-end school. Her mother was being treated in the city’s best hospital with fees significantly reduced. But no matter how much you pour into a broken cup, it stays empty.   

She was determined to make something meaningful of her life so that her dad could finally rest and live without burden. She was hopeful that once she would free him of his responsibilities, he would soften and become the father she longed for.  

A flurry of chirps pulled her from her thoughts. She turned her face to find a group of little birds pecking eagerly at breadcrumbs. Smiling, she uncurled her palm for a little bird to hop on. These birds had become her pets. The world was cruel but nature was always kind to her. She was a shadow to humans, but to animals, she was a beacon. They gravitate towards her on their own.  

After spending some time with birds, she took a bath and traced her path back to the kitchen. Without delay, she started making breakfast for everyone. She had voluntarily taken the responsibility of house chores since the accident. 

Familiar footsteps echoed. Expectantly, she glanced towards the door and noticed her dad coming in with the newspaper tucked under his arm.   

“Good morning, Dad,” she chirped, smiling brightly. 

Franklin looked up at her and murmured, “Good Morning,” before looking away just as quickly. His face set in a solemn expression as he settled down in the chair. 

Sera quickly grabbed the bowl filled with handfuls of nuts and presented it before Franklin. Franklin took it without sparing her a glance. 

After that, she turned her attention back to preparing breakfast. His indifference no longer bothered her as she had gotten used to his curt replies and cold demeanor. 

As soon as she was done making breakfast, she loaded a plate for her dad and placed it on the table before him. In a hopeful tone, she asked, “Are you coming to school today?” 

Franklin looked up, clueless as to what she meant, “For what?” 

A hint of disappointment dulled the optimism in her eyes. 

“The quiz competition I told you about yesterday. I am participating in that. All the other kids’ parents are coming,” she explained hopefully. A brief silence followed.

“I have a very important meeting today,” Franklin replied, without meeting her gaze. 

“Ohh,” A pang of disappointment stabbed her heart but she didn’t let it show on her face as she didn’t want her dad to feel guilty, not that he cared. 

She dragged her feet back to the counter with disappointment burdening her shoulders.      

Dyson, her brother, sauntered in a moment later. 

“Is the breakfast ready?” he asked, taking his seat next to Franklin. 

“How about wishing everyone “Good Morning” first?” Sera reminded. Dyson rolled his eyes before wishing everyone morning. Sera set the plate down in front of him. After that, she went to her mother, carrying her breakfast plate. 

She opened the door to find Mary in her wheelchair. She was gazing out the window. 

“Mom,” she called softly as she set the plate down on the table. Mary didn’t respond. She walked towards her. An aura of melancholy constantly surrounded her mom since the accident and it stung Sera every time she saw her. 

She gently rested her hand on her shoulder and said, “I’ve made you breakfast.” The woman subtly wiped away her tears. 

“Did Dyson have his breakfast?” she asked, still staring outside. 

“Yes. Dad and Dyson are having their breakfast in the kitchen,” Sera informed her. Mary spun her wheelchair around towards the table. Sera didn’t linger on the prick of being overlooked- Mary never asked her if she had her breakfast too. 

After making sure everyone had eaten, she returned to her room to get ready for school.

…………..

Serrano's residence was a piece of heaven nestled on earth. She would always find herself enchanted by its unrivaled grandeur. 

She walked into the house, once again mesmerized by its opulence. The chandelier hanging from the ceiling alone was enough to make her feel dirt-poor.

“Sera! Come on in. How are you doing?” Ara welcomed her with a warm smile. Sera smiled back, wondering if she had caught her gawking. 

“Hello, Mrs. Serrano. I am good. How are you?” Sera asked politely, clasping her hands together in front. 

“Good. You’re looking for Hannah? She is in her room,” Ara told her. 

“I’ll see her then,” Sera said as if asking for her permission. 

“Sure. Have you had your breakfast?” Ara asked, her gaze warm and kind. Sera’s smile faltered for a moment. Dyson had eaten extra today, leaving her with nothing to eat.

“I am serving breakfast in a few minutes. Have it with us,” Ara invited her. 

“I…I would hate to be a..”

“You’re no trouble at all, Sera,” Ara cut in, her voice gentle yet firm. Sera was deeply touched by her kindness. Despite being so rich, Mrs. Serrano had no ounce of arrogance. 

“Okay,” she agreed with a sheepish smile. After that, she went upstairs to see Hannah. Her heart pulsated in her throat as she walked alone through the quiet corridor. His room was not far off.