After returning from the beach, Racheal headed back to her hostel. The corridors were alive with voices, footsteps, and the occasional burst of laughter echoing from nearby rooms. Pushing open her door, she was greeted by the sight of her roommate sitting with a few friends, their chatter filling the space. They were laughing over something on a phone, their voices blending into a stream of gossip and inside jokes.
Racheal offered them a brief glance before walking quietly to her side of the room. She placed her things neatly on the desk, then unwrapped her food and began eating in silence. The laughter from the other side of the room washed over her, but she didn't mind. She had grown used to it—it was just the rhythm of hostel life.
When she was done, she stretched out on her bed, her back sinking into the familiar mattress. She pulled out a book from her shelf and opened it, letting her eyes scan the words. She wasn't really focused on the story; reading was simply a way to pass time, to keep her mind from wandering into places she didn't want it to go.
Her thoughts drifted to Mia, the girl she had met by the shore. There was something refreshing about the way Mia had spoken—bold, yet friendly. And then, the mention of her cold brother lingered in Racheal's mind. What kind of person was he? she wondered. But she quickly shook the thought away, reminding herself not to dwell too much.
Just as she turned another page, her phone buzzed. Glancing at the screen, she saw Erica's name flashing. She answered at once.
"Racheal, I'll be visiting you soon," Erica's cheerful voice rang out, filled with warmth and excitement. There was always something comforting about the way she spoke—as though her words carried light with them.
Racheal sat up a little straighter, her lips curving into a smile she hadn't realized she needed. "Really? That's wonderful, Erica," she said softly, her tone betraying the relief she felt.
"It's been too long, Racheal. I miss our walks, our talks… everything. I want to see you again, so promise me you'll be free when I come."
"I'll be waiting," Racheal replied, her chest tightening with a mix of joy and longing.
After the call ended, she set her phone aside and leaned back against her pillow. The sound of laughter from her roommate and her friends no longer bothered her—it seemed distant, unimportant. For the first time that day, her heart felt lighter.
Her mind wandered as she imagined what their reunion would be like. Maybe they would go for a long walk through the park, talking about everything and nothing at all. Or perhaps they'd stay in her room, sharing food, laughing, and catching up until the night grew late. The thought of Erica sitting beside her, chatting as if no time had passed, filled Racheal with warmth.
She let out a quiet sigh, hugging her pillow a little closer. Between Mia's sudden appearance and Erica's upcoming visit, it felt like change was gently knocking at her door.
With a soft smile on her face, she returned to her book. This time, her heart wasn't heavy—it was quietly hopeful.