MEMORY: The Last Place (Part 1)

The rain had already stopped, but my chest was still heavy, as if there was an anchor weighing it down.

I found myself falling behind my classmates who were heading back to the classroom. P.E. was our last class for the day and it was easier to disappear that way: no one’s really paying attention when it’s time to go home.

I crossed the path from the gym to the auditorium; a route that wouldn’t lead me back to the high school building. I decided to skip club and yet, I didn’t want to go home either. I wanted to go somewhere deserted. Alone.

The auditorium was locked, as expected. I had just released my grip off the stainless steel handle when the wind rushed to my comfort, carrying a certain fragrance in it. I turned around the corner and reached the back side of the building. There, I was welcomed by the sight of ylang-ylang trees whose yellow blossoms are known for that perfumed scent.