Episode 12: Chocolates 1

My class headed down the stairs as usual. It was time for a weekly flag ceremony, and always on Mondays. I lazily headed down and followed through the crowd.

As we walked through the pavement that leads to the fields, My hands were grabbed by someone on my side. The crowd is too thick for me to look behind and see who's taking me. But if I ever have to guess, it's her.

Midway through the pavement, the crowd dispersed as some already reached the field. I, on the other hand, hoping it's not some bully, checked who's taking me in these circumstances.

"Yo." She raised her hand even though I'm close to her.

"Hi." I looked at her with a questioning face.

"What?" We continued to walk. "Don't you want to see me?"

"Of course I do." The walking continues. Still, she's right behind me.

"Monday morning routine's boring," she said. I nodded extravagantly to let her know that I agreed.

"Hey, come on now." She rested her arms on my back as we walked. "Raise that energy up."

"Okay, yeah." I managed even with her weight on my back.

After minutes of walking and squeezing through a crowd of students, we finally reached the field. In front of the grounds was a platform where the leading students were placed.

Suddenly, she moved into the front which somehow bothers me. It was because she's taller than me and I was having a difficult time seeing what's in front of me.

"I'll hide you from the teachers, don't worry," she said. "You know, because I'm waaaay taller than you."

I sighed as I glanced at my back. Male and female lines are separated which is a problem for me being here. But as I expected, the girl behind me grinned. Probably because she understands the situation and wanted to have a close-up seat to the show: us two. And so, the morning routine started.

First, the national anthem was sung. Just like usual, the students, including me, created another version of the song. This was most likely due to different pronunciation, timing, and overall impression of it totally. Sometimes, you get to do what you're used to instead of following the original one.

Second, the reciting of "Patriotic Oath" and "Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag" occurred. This was fairly average as it's something that everyone synchronized into. Still sloppy, but not a pain to hear.

Third, the city's hymn was sung. Personally, I liked it due to the meaning of the song, as it was supposed to do so. But not only that, the rhythm and tone is something I could attain.

Lastly, the announcement. The principal walked through the stage while we stood below a bright sun. As usual, it started off with a boring yet impactful introduction. But well, no one really cares about the following information.

"Pst, hey." she turned her head to me with a slight smile. "Want some?"

With me too focused on the monday routine hoping it changes at least a bit, I haven't noticed what she was doing up until now. And so, I replied "What are you doing?"

"Just take it, come on." she kept holding out a chocolate above her shoulders without even turning back. "It'll energize your day."

Like an obedient dog, even though ironically, they're not allowed to eat this kind of snack, I took the chocolate cut in half. Upon closer look, I realized that it was a brand the same as I currently have.

"Thanks," I replied while I searched for the chocolate I have in my bag. I kept on searching with my hands only to be interrupted by her.

"Happy Valentine's day," she said while holding out the chocolate, which I presume was mine because of her mockingly smile. "Thank you."

"hAppY VaLentiNes," I replied with a shaking voice as I ate the chocolates. I mean, I planned to give it to her anyways, so what's the harm?