Chapter 2

The auditorium was packed with students in their graduation gowns, holding their diplomas and academic cap while cheering in utter joy after the ceremony and awarding just finished. Their parents were all beside them, taking pictures while proudness was all etched on their faces, nearly tearing up.

“Let’s take a picture, guys… for remembrance!” One of my classmates shouted while motioning for us to come closer towards the grand podium.

I happily obliged. Who knows when we’ll be seeing one another again? Maybe ten years later for a batch reunion? I’ll miss them for sure, even when I’m not that close to most of them. I hope for everyone’s dream and career to flourish after this… ‘cause that’s where I’m surely heading to.

“Hey, put Jupiter in front! You cannot have him in the back with all that medals and awards!” Jacob shouted from a distance. He’s with his own classmates and also busy taking pictures.

I felt my cheeks flushed. My classmates then laughed and cheered, waiting for me to step in front for our picture taking. I sheepishly took the center stage with the heavy medals hanging around my neck as the cheers grew louder. My eyes then searched for Jacob, he mouthed something to me and pointed towards the basketball club room direction.

“Picture picture!” He shouted before running off while giving me a wink. My face boiled even more at his flirty action. I respect our friendship a lot, but if he’ll keep doing that, I can’t promise if I could still keep  my hands off of him… especially now that his actions are starting to look suggestive.

A dreamy sigh escaped my throat as I focused on the cameras in front of us. After the picture taking, my sister and Dad approached me for a congratulatory hug. My father looked like he’s in cloud nine every time his eyes would land on my awards, even the wrinkles on the side of his eyes were smiling in delight.

“Congrats, twin! I’m so proud of you!” My sister attacked me with a hug. “I’m sure Mom is also proud of you up there.”

Dad chuckled. “Super proud, Venus. I’m sure she’s bragging it to all the angels up there that her son took home the highest accolade today.”

Mom. I felt my eyes sting at the thought of her. My mother passed away five years ago because of colon cancer. I miss her every day, and I know Dad and Venus felt the same.

“What the?” Venus hit me on the back. “You’re such a cry baby, Jupiter! Don’t you dare cry right now or I’ll end up sobbing too!”

I chuckled as I blinked back the tears in my eyes. I looked at Dad and the unshed tears at the corner of his eyes. Venus yelled once more.

“I swear, if one of you cry right now…” she warned while stomping her feet repeatedly. However, the redness forming on her nose didn’t escape my eyes. I laughed harder.

“Venus, I think you’re gonna cry first before us.” I teased and her eyes turned glossier. My Dad laughed before stepping closer to caress her back. He then called the photographer he rented for another set of pictures.

“Where shall we eat?” Venus asked as soon as the picture taking finished.

“Can we move the celebration later for dinner instead? I’ll spend some time with my teammates first…”

My father nodded. “Sure, son. I actually have a meeting in two hours so I think it’ll be better to celebrate this evening. I’ll move our reservation for later.”

“Thanks, Dad!”

“No problem. And Jupiter…”

“Yes… Dad?” I suddenly felt my chest hammered at the abrupt change of expression on his face.

“I’ll expect your resume on my table in two months. Enjoy your vacation for the mean time.”

The club room was filled with loudness and laughter when I arrived. Jacob immediately pulled me inside and I automatically received so many back slaps from everyone. My teammates tackled me to the ground while screaming their congratulation messages for me. I had to hid away the blush creeping up on my cheeks because the attention I’m getting right now is slightly… arousing me. I wonder if they would even touch the tip of my finger if they’re aware I’m a straight gay.

“Dude, where are your medals?”

I smiled shyly. “Ah… my sister already took it home.”

“Would’ve been nice to lend each one of us as a prop for our picture taking,” Jacob laughed at his own idea.

Six members, including me, graduated today. Nevertheless, everyone was present today for the final picture taking… and of course, to watch and cheer us on. I’m grateful for the friendship and brotherhood I formed with these handsome guys. I would never exchange this for anything.

We ate out after some shots. The photographer collected our mails and promised to send the photos to each one of us.

“Since Coach isn’t here with us today, who’s gonna pay?” Andrew asked as soon as everyone emptied their plates. I nervously gulped when my teammates started to turn their heads towards my direction.

“Of course, Mister Summa Cum Laude shall treat us for today! Any complain?”

They guys laughed and cheered which left me with no choice. I fished out for my wallet with a playful frown on my face.

“This isn’t fair at all. I should be the one receiving all the treats,” I commented while handing my card on the waiter’s bill holder.

“Don’t worry. Next time, it’ll be my treat. I’m planning to take a second course so wish me luck for my Latin honors.” Andrew joked and the table grew louder. I laughed along with them. Andrew might be the best captain there is but he honestly sucks academically. I heard he almost didn’t graduate had his parents didn’t talk it out to the school dean.

“Really? That’s a surprise since you seemed to hate school, Drew. What course will you be in next?” I inquired and I could even felt my knees shook a little when his nickname came out of my mouth. That was the first time I addressed him like that. Am I allowed to?

“Hmm… I’ve always wanted to be a dentist. I just took a business course to appease my father. But after this, I’m off to chase my own dreams.”

I stared at him, utterly amazed. Guys talking about their passion and dreams really turn me on. There’s just something so attractive about it. A person knowing what they want in life and actually taking a step forward to achieve it shows how confident and courageous they are. It’s just so damn attractive!

“Dude, what? Are you in love with me now?”

I snapped out of my thoughts when I heard his remark. I didn’t notice I’ve been staring at him for too long now.

“I might be,” I then playfully winked at him. “You know, I’ve always thought you’re one of those spoiled brats who have no dreams in life. So hearing you talk about your dreams a while ago sent tingles all over my body. Now can we kiss?”

The table doubled over in laughter. Andrew looked at me, utterly grossed out.

“Ew, dude!” he even acted like he’s about to throw up. I laughed along with them, but deep inside, his response made a small ache in my chest… even when I already expected it.

I shut my mouth after that and just opted to listen to their conversation. After the meal, I decided to go back to school since I left a few stuff in my locker. I couldn’t help but look around the university as I’m walking through the hallway. I’m gonna miss this place so bad. The memories I had in this school is priceless and unmatched.

The club room was empty and dim when I got in. I didn’t bother to open the lights anymore since I’ll be quick anyway. I just need to fetch a few books and shirt.

I fumbled for the key in my front pocket to unlock the locker. As I just pulled the door open, I noticed a paper fell on the floor. I bent down to pick up the pink envelope covered in rainbow glitters. I couldn’t help but smile at the fabulous design. Looks pretty!

But when I realized what it was, the smile on my face vanished. Another pathetic love letter…

Most times, I would’ve thrown it out since letters from girls cringed me out so much. But since the lovely envelope got me, I might consider reading this.

I stashed it on my back pocket and grabbed all my belongings. I then looked at the club room one last time before heading out. When I reached my car, I excitedly ripped up the envelope to see the letter. And what greeted me almost had me frozen in place…

Juno… that girl! She must be out of her mind! I mean, how could she?

I sighed in frustration and felt a little pity for her. I then grabbed my phone to leave her a message.

Me :

Wanna grab some sushi?

I like Juno a lot… as a friend. She’s the first ever girl, besides my Mom, twin sister, and other relatives, that I became the closest with.

And it’s paining me that I have to hurt her after this because me and her, are just not meant to be…