Chapter 7: Cards and Confessions

The fire grew larger, casting flickering shadows on the students gathered around. Everyone was deeply engrossed in the stories being shared, their faces illuminated by the warm glow. Rick sat silently, listening intently. He had always believed that privilege equaled happiness, but tonight, he was realizing that even those who seemed to have everything carried burdens of their own—sometimes heavier than those of ordinary people.

Mr. Pat, sensing the reflective mood, encouraged them to share moments they were grateful for. A murmur spread through the group as they considered his words.

Alfonso, feeling restless, stood up and wandered toward the woods. The darkness was thick, the bushes rustling softly with the night breeze. He stepped forward, searching for a secluded spot to relieve himself. Just as he was about to do so, he heard whispers—soft, female voices with words he couldn't quite make out. His breath hitched. His pulse quickened. Fear seized him, and without hesitation, he sprinted back to the bonfire, his heart hammering against his chest.

When he returned, his face was drained of color. Monica, ever observant, noticed his distress and fixed him with a curious, almost knowing stare. She didn't ask, but her raised eyebrow said enough.

As the night deepened, Drew and Erik, the well-dressed twin brothers, shared their story. "People think that just because we come from money, life is easy," Erik began. "But two years ago, we lost our mom to a sudden health complication. Our dad… he hasn't been the same since."

Drew nodded, his voice quieter. "He drinks. A lot. Sometimes, it feels like we're losing him too. We try our best to be good sons, but it's hard when you feel like you're doing it alone."

Erik added, "But we're still grateful that he provides for us. We know he loves us, even if he's struggling."

A heavy silence settled over the group. Monica, moved by their words, wanted to ask for their zodiac signs, believing it might reveal something deeper about their struggles. But sensing the moment, she kept her curiosity in check.

When it was her turn, Monica cleared her throat and spoke, her voice carrying a mysterious lilt. "I like to read fate. Cards, stars, numbers—there's always something guiding us, if we know where to look." She shrugged, offering a small smile. "Being an only child, I never really had people to share these things with. I guess that's why I created my own little world."

She added with a smirk, "I'm a Taurus. Stubborn, tough on the inside, but quirky and silent on the outside. That's me."

Rick, who had mostly been listening, finally found his voice. He hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I lost my parents when I was young. A freak accident. It still doesn't make sense to me." He exhaled deeply. "I'm here on a scholarship, and everything I do is for my Lolo Tecio. One day, I want to take him on a trip, somewhere peaceful—maybe Aurora. He deserves that much."

Tristan remained quiet, taking in everything. He was usually good with words, but tonight, he chose to observe.

Then it was Troy's turn. He was reluctant at first, but under the expectant gazes of his peers, he sighed and spoke. "Football. That's my passion. I want to win the regional championship this year, for my family." He glanced around, then at Rick and Tristan. "I didn't expect to meet people like you two, but I'm glad I did."

The trio exchanged glances. Their bond, unexpected and unspoken, was growing stronger with each passing day.

As the bonfire crackled on, the group continued sharing, laughing, and reflecting on their lives. Despite their differences, they found solace in the fact that they were not alone in their struggles.

Suddenly, a flash of lightning lit up the sky, followed by a deep rumble of thunder. The wind picked up, and within moments, rain began to pour. "Everyone, back to the dorms!" Mr. Pat shouted over the downpour. "Be careful running!"

Laughter and shrieks filled the air as the students scrambled through the rain. Erik and Drew turned it into a race, dashing ahead with playful competitiveness. Monica clutched her belongings close, trying to keep them dry. Alfonso, ever the picture of composure, still managed to serve face while running. Rick and Troy, conditioned by years of athletics, sprinted effortlessly, reaching the dorm first.

Soaked to the bone, Rick and Troy immediately went to the showers, the cold water shocking against their skin. "Man, that bonfire was something else," Troy muttered as he rubbed his arms for warmth. Rick nodded, lost in thought.

Meanwhile, Alfonso, having changed quickly, headed to the hallway in search of food. As he walked, he spotted Monica sitting on a bench, frowning at a pile of wet tarot cards. He paused, watching her struggle before stepping closer. "Need help?"

Monica sighed, looking up at him. "They got wet. I don't know if they're ruined."

Alfonso grabbed a piece of cardboard and began fanning the cards. "Maybe we can dry them like this?"

Monica smiled softly. "Thanks."

A moment of silence passed before she hesitantly asked, "Want me to do a reading for you?"

Alfonso didn't answer right away. He neither agreed nor refused, but Monica took his silence as a yes. She shuffled the cards five times, then split them into three decks. Slowly, she turned them over—revealing a Lady with wings, a unicorn, and a tree.

She studied the cards intently. "Interesting…"

Alfonso raised an eyebrow. "What do they mean?"

Monica's lips curled into a mysterious smile. "The Lady with Wings offers guidance and protection, urging you to trust your intuition. The Unicorn reminds you of your pure dreams and untapped potential—embrace your uniqueness. The Tree calls for grounding and growth, reminding you to stay connected while reaching for greater heights."

Later that night, back in their shared room, Rick and Troy lay in their beds, staring at the ceiling. The echoes of the bonfire stories still lingered in their minds.

"Do you believe in ghosts?" Rick asked suddenly.

Troy snorted. "No way. You?"

Rick nodded. "Yeah."

Before Troy could argue, a faint scream echoed through the hallway. Instinct kicked in, and without thinking, Troy bolted upright—then, in his panic, clung to Rick. The embrace was quick, awkward, and suffused with panic. In that moment, Rick could feel Troy's heartbeat racing—and something else. Troy's body pressed firmly against his, making the situation even more uncomfortable.

They sprang apart instantly, a heavy silence falling between them.

Troy cleared his throat, his voice an octave higher than usual. "Uh… maybe I do believe in ghosts. Just a little."

Rick chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, sure."