"Seline Noir"

Chapter 1: Seline Noir

****

"Ughh~"

After I stretched and got ready, I prepared myself for school.

"Bye, Mom and Dad,"

I called out as I left the house, knowing there would be no response since my parents were no longer here. Only my grandfather remained as my known relative. I set off for school in my hand-me-down uniform from a senior at the university, worn-out school heels that could break at any moment, and a scooter that could be more rightly termed as junk.

While driving, my phone rang. Pulling over to safely answer the call, I saw that it was from my best friend Mayrose.

Mayrose has been my best friend since my parents' funeral, being the first person who approached me during such a challenging time.

"What's up, Rose?"

I responded in a cheerful tone, expecting another one of her gossipy tidbits. Some were true, while others were humorous exaggerations.

"Hey, I don't have any gossip at the moment," she replied from the other end of the line, then continued, "Don't tell me you're planning on skipping class this afternoon?"

"Well, yes, I need to work extra hours to cover my rent and save up for Aljur and our big anniversary celebration this Saturday,"

I explained with a sigh. Our five-year anniversary was only three days away.

Despite saving from last year, I was still far from affording the ideal gift – a luxurious original Rolex watch which boasted a black and gold finish, adorned with small carats of actual gold.

Although I only had 20-30 thousand saved up, the watch itself cost hundreds of thousands, if not millions.

****

"Hey, don't work too hard for him. Remember what I always say: 'Give pearls and rubies but keeps your precious self away from robbers.' I know you're dedicated and working multiple jobs, but you should consider going home to your grandfather," she advised.

Her words reminded me that I did still have a home to return to as my grandfather was the only relative I knew of on my father's side. I wasn't sure about any relatives on my mother's side.

"True, but this is a task that my parents left for me," I replied, aiming to divert the conversation.

"I need to get going or I'm going to be late for school."

With a hum of understanding from Mayrose, I ended the call and gingerly started the old scooter to continue my commute.