Chapter 5

(throwback)

In the midst of the relentless downpour, Kenzy, a 10-year-old, found herself seeking refuge at the back of her uncle's modern house. Tears mingled with raindrops on her cheeks as she huddled alone, the weight of her pain almost tangible in the air.

Meanwhile, Kathy, with her heart as big as the umbrella she held, navigated the dark neighborhood with determination etched on her face. Puddles splashed underfoot as she approached the back of the house, where she spotted Kenzy, her small figure shrouded in sorrow.

With a gentle smile, Kathy extended her umbrella over Kenzy, offering both shelter from the rain and a glimmer of hope amidst the storm. "Hey there," she said softly, her voice a soothing melody amidst the drumming of raindrops. "Need a friend?"

Kenzy's tear-filled eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected kindness. Sniffling, she nodded silently, a flicker of gratitude crossing her features. "B...blood" she says, her voice barely audible over the rain.

Kathy's expression softened, empathy shining in her eyes as she knelt beside Kenzy. "It's okay," she reassured, her hand reaching out to gently brush a strand of wet hair from Kenzy's face. "Let me help."

As they sat together beneath the shelter of the umbrella, a bond formed between the two girls, forged in the midst of adversity. With each shared smile and whispered conversation, the weight of Kenzy's pain lifted, replaced by the warmth of friendship.

(Present)

So, after I left Kathy's place that day, my mind was a whirlwind of emotions. Memories from the past flooded back, some joyful, others bittersweet, but they all brought tears to my eyes. It was like flipping through the pages of an old photo album, each picture telling a story of its own.

The days went by, filled with the usual routines of school and home, but today's Friday, Its Nancy's birthday party

As the sun began its lazy ascent into the sky, painting the world in hues of soft gold,

my sleek brown hair cascading in gentle waves around my shoulders, leaned against the kitchen counter with a cup of steaming coffee in my hand,

"Morning, Cherry," I greeted with a warm smile. "Are you ready to take on the world today?"

Cherry, her fiery red locks pulled back in a messy bun, bustled about the kitchen, a whirlwind of energy and excitement. "Absolutely, Kenzy," she replied, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "I've got a feeling tonight's party is going to be one for the books."

I chuckled, taking a sip of my coffee as I watched Cherry flit about the room, her movements as graceful as a dancer's. "I have no doubt about that," I agreed,

As we busied ourselves with last-minute preparations, the conversation flowed freely between us, each word a testament to the deep bond of friendship that united them.

"So, any plans to shake things up tonight?" Cherry inquired, her eyes alight with curiosity.

I grinned wickedly, a glint of mischief dancing in my gaze. "Oh, you know me," I replied with a playful wink. "I always have a few tricks up my sleeve."

Cherry laughed, a musical sound that filled the room with warmth and joy. "I wouldn't expect anything less," she teased, her voice tinged with admiration for her friend's daring spirit.