THE ANAMNESIS

CHAPTER - 8

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As the silence enveloped the room, my phone suddenly came to life with a jarring ring. Startled, I leaned forward and reached for it, its bright screen illuminating the darkness. The caller ID revealed it was Emma, my dear friend and teammate.

With a mix of curiosity and apprehension, I took a moment to collect myself before answering the call. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest as I wondered what Emma wanted.

"Hey, Ane! Where are you, girl?" Emma's voice rang through the phone, filled with excitement and anticipation.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. The truth was, I wasn't feeling up to going on the planned trip with our team. Doubts and uncertainties clouded my mind, making the idea of socializing with others seem daunting.

Sensing my hesitation, Emma's voice softened, concern seeping through her words. "Girl, something wrong?" she asked gently.

I took a deep breath, contemplating whether to share my true feelings. "No, everything's fine," I replied, my voice betraying a hint of uncertainty. "Actually, I was thinking it's better if I sit this one out."

Emma's voice filled with empathy and understanding. "Is it because you're not comfortable socializing with people? Don't worry, I'll be there for you," she reassured me.

I paused, unsure of how to articulate my true reasons. "It's not just about socializing," I finally admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "There's something else... but never mind."

Emma's intuition kicked in, her voice filled with compassion. "Is it because your parents didn't show up today for your birthday?" she asked gently, as if she already knew the answer.

Surprised, I asked, "How did you know?"

Emma explained that she had reached out to  Mrs Armelia  when I hadn't been answering her calls. A mix of emotions flooded through me, but mostly a sense of disappointment lingered.

"Listen," Emma said, her voice filled with determination, "it's all good. You may not have celebrated your birthday with your parents, but you can still hang out with us. If not with everyone, at least with me."

I pondered her words, realizing that she was offering me a chance to create new memories and find solace in the company of friends.

"Hmm," I murmured, my mind racing with thoughts

Uh, hold up a sec, Emma. Let me just, um, gather my thoughts and get myself ready. I appreciate your support, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. This trip is giving me all sorts of mixed emotions. I quickly ended the call, my mind racing with uncertainty. I knew I had to make a decision, but I couldn't shake off this feeling of confusion.

As I stood in front of my closet, clothes scattered all over the place, I couldn't seem to find the right outfit. It was like my brain was on a never-ending loop, going back and forth between options. Just when I was about to give up, there was a knock on my door. Mrs. Armelia, our trusty housekeeper, walked in, her eyebrows raised in concern.

"Hey there, Miss Anna, what's going on?" she asked, eyeing the chaos in my room.

I explained to her that I was going on a trip with my friends and desperately needed her help to pack. Mrs. Armelia looked at me with a mix of surprise and confusion.

"Wait, hold on a minute," she said, trying to process the information. "Did you let your parents know about this sudden trip?"

I reassured her that I had informed my parents a couple of days ago and they were okay with it. Mrs. Armelia seemed slightly relieved and agreed to lend a hand. She quickly packed my bag with all the essentials, making sure I didn't forget anything important. With a grateful smile, I rushed into the bathroom to change into my chosen outfit.

Since it was a bit chilly outside, I decided to go for a white jersey t-shirt as my base. I added a black leather jacket on top, hoping it would give me a cool and edgy look. I paired it with some black jeans and a sleek pair of black and white sneakers. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel a sense of confusion. Would this outfit be the right choice for the trip? Only time would tell.

Standing in front of the mirror at the dressing table, I adorned myself with a few pieces of western jewelry. One particular item held special significance to me - a silver chain with a beautiful white stone moon-shaped pendant. It was my lucky charm, always accompanying me on special occasions. It felt like a part of me, something that brought me comfort and confidence. I know it might seem a bit crazy to others, but to me, it held great sentimental value.

A spritz of my favorite perfume and I was ready to face the day. Just as I finished getting ready, I heard Mrs. Armelia's footsteps approaching my door. Opening it, I found her about to knock.

"Miss Anna, I came to inform you that your friends have arrived," Mrs. Armelia said with a warm smile.

"Thank you for letting me know, Mrs. Armelia. I better go now. Bye!" I replied, feeling a rush of excitement.

I hurried down the stairs and through the hallway, with Mrs. Armelia following closely behind. As I stepped outside, I spotted Emma and Andrea waiting by the car, while Sera and Daniel were already seated inside. Making my way towards them, Emma's eyes met mine, a silent acknowledgement of our shared anticipation.

"Hey girl! Ready?" Emma exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

"I guess..." I replied, trying to contain my excitement.

Andrea, her voice filled with awe, chimed in, "Whoo... Is this grand mansion your house?

I nodded slightly as Mr. Grey approached me from behind.

"Miss Anna?" Mr. Grey addressed me

I turned around, facing Mr. Grey.

"Yes? Mr. Grey?" I responded

"If you want, I can drop you off at the resort in your car." Mr. Grey suggested in concern

"No, it's alright, Mr. Grey. I'll go with my friends." I replied with a warm smile

"Who is this, Anna?" Andrea questioned in curiosity

Sera and Daniel approached us.

"I think he's the watchman here, right?" Sera mocked Mr. Grey, but I quickly responded, "No."

"I'm Miss Anna's personal driver." Mr. Grey introduced himself

"No, I consider him as my family, so don't say that." I replied with my eyes on sera

All of them stood there in silence. Honestly, I didn't like the way my friends treated Mr. Grey. I could see the pain in his eyes. They all went and took their seats in the car. I apologized to Mr. Grey on behalf of my friends' behavior towards him. I noticed Mrs. Armelia standing there, waiting for her turn to speak. I looked at Mrs. Armelia and smiled.

"Dear, take care of yourself," Mrs Armelia said in a low voice with concern in her eyes

"Don't worry, Mrs. Armelia. Your Miss Anna has grown up." I responded playfully

"Go now, take care." Mrs. Armelia chuckled softly

I took my seat in the car, waving goodbye to Mr. Grey and Mrs. Armelia. I don't know why, but I felt really strange. Both of these people took care of me like I was their own. On the other hand, my parents only seem to care about their work and business. They just don't seem to have time for me.

To be continued....