Survival isn't just about outlasting the storm it's about finding shelter with those you trust."

— Unknown

August 1, 2023

Monday

8:45 AM

It was the first day of school, and all the students had gathered around the Philippine flag for the flag ceremony. The day was peaceful—not too hot, not too cold. A gentle breeze carried the refreshing scent of the morning air, while the sight of the vast, green soccer field stretched out like a picturesque painting. We were all lined up on the closed-off roads, with whispers circulating that we were standing in the very heart of the Philippines. Of course, I didn't believe it at first. It was just a rumor, and anyone could see from a map that this place wasn't exactly in the center of the country.

As I, Emerson, was lost in my thoughts, I suddenly felt a sharp slap on my backside. "Oh, shit! What the hell, Tope!" I yelled, spinning around. Tope Whitemen, a handsome 16-year-old and my friend since high school, grinned mischievously. Beside him was Marco Grey, a 17-year-old boy with a contagious, high-pitched laugh. Marco, flamboyant and proud, had been part of our close-knit group for years.

As soon as Marco's ridiculous laugh rang out, Tope and I couldn't help but crack up, joining him in uncontrollable laughter. The three of us were a mess, barely able to keep it together. Of course, when the teacher shot us a stern look, we immediately straightened up, trying to act like nothing had happened.

After the flag ceremony, the three of us made our way to our assigned classroom, where our classmates greeted us with warm smiles. We quickly found our usual seats, sitting together as always. The classroom was arranged in five columns, and we claimed the middle row—Tope sat at the center, with Marco to his right and me, Emerson, to his left. Ztirf and Marlo took the seats beside me, while behind us, Kevin Hugo, Kit Hollis, Loberic Greer, and JB Ashford occupied the back row. In front of us sat the girls—Amelia Watson, Isabella Wynn, Evelyn Crane, and Aria Larkwood. Our little cluster of friends had grown close over time; we had shared countless sleepovers, parties, and unforgettable moments together. Senior high school was turning out to be something special. "I hope this lasts forever," I thought to myself.

The bell finally rang, signaling the end of class, and everyone was eager for lunch.

"Finally, it's lunch time!" Ztirf exclaimed, his voice bursting with excitement.

"Physics was boring as hell. I couldn't understand a single thing the teacher was talking about," I complained with a big sigh of frustration.

"Well, maybe you'd understand if you didn't spend the entire class asleep," JB retorted with a slightly annoyed and sarcastic tone.

"Where should we eat lunch?" Kevin asked, looking around the group for ideas.

Stolen story; please report.

Kit suggested we head to UI, the most common and basic canteen on campus. It wasn't the most exciting place, but everyone knew the food was delicious, and the variety of options always hit the spot. Loberic, ever the adventurous one, proposed we try something different, but the rest of the group unanimously voted for UI. Most of us were craving the big, mouthwatering chicken from Kutsarat and Yahong, a favorite food stall. Their chicken wasn't just enormous and tasty—it was also incredibly affordable.

We sat together at our usual table, laughing and chatting while devouring our meals. By the time lunch ended, we were full and content, the camaraderie between us growing stronger with each shared moment.

Our friend group hadn't always been this tight-knit. It wasn't until Grade 12 that we really bonded, mostly through school group projects. Back in Grade 11, the friendships were still forming. Ztirf Caldwell, for instance, was an introvert who only had a few friends, one of them being JB Ashford. I, Tope Whitman, and Marco Grey had been close since high school, so we stuck together, forming a smaller trio in Grade 11. Along with us was our new friend Shirleene. Kevin Hugo and Kit Hollis were also inseparable, both sharing a passion for art that deepened their bond. Loberic Greer and Marlo Vance, though they had just met, became fast friends over their mutual love for basketball. It was only as we transitioned into Grade 12 that we all came together as a close group.

Each of us had our own unique, and sometimes weird, personalities.

Emerson Harlow was the quiet, introverted student who transformed around friends. He was always full of energy when with us, cracking cringe-worthy jokes that somehow made the group lively. Yet, in his alone time, Emerson often immersed himself in studying or tackling complex problems, avoiding social events unless necessary.

Ztirf Caldwell had a brooding, prideful nature. He rarely opened up but was intense when he did, engaging in intellectual debates or discussions when provoked. Independent and aloof.

Kevin Hugo was the quiet artist. His emotions flowed through his artwork, music, or poetry. Kevin often zoned out during class, sketching in his notebooks or dreaming up his next creative project. Though he was shy and avoided big crowds, his artistic talent and sensitivity drew admiration from those who got to know him.

JB Ashford was the complete opposite. Outgoing and confident, he thrived in social settings and was naturally smart, both academically and socially. JB was a natural leader in class and during group work, always calm and quick-witted, making him popular among both peers and teachers.

Tope Whitman was the emotional, hot-headed member of our group. His moods were quick to shift—whether from excitement, frustration, or anger, you always knew what Tope was feeling. Despite his impulsiveness, Tope's enthusiasm and loyalty made him well-liked, although he struggled to keep his emotions in check during serious situations.

Loberic Greer was the athletic but quiet student. A star on the sports field, Loberic was less confident in the classroom. Though timid and shy, he had a kind heart and was always ready to lend a hand, preferring to avoid conflict or attention in social settings.

Marco Grey was clever but cowardly, often trying to stay out of the spotlight. Physically weak, Marco was known for using his intelligence to get by with minimal effort, always figuring out the easiest way to complete tasks. His classmates knew he was resourceful, even if he preferred to stay in the background.

Marlo Vance was intense, quick-tempered, and competitive. He had a fiery personality, never afraid to voice his opinions or challenge others. Although smart, his impulsiveness sometimes overshadowed his abilities, but he always stood by his ideas, even if it led to conflict.

Kit Hollis was the quiet, calm one. He rarely caused any stir in school and preferred to keep to himself. Empathetic and wise, Kit was often the peacekeeper in our group, offering thoughtful advice when needed without ever seeking attention for himself.

As we navigated our senior year together, every member of the group brought their unique qualities, forming a bond that felt unbreakable. Life in Grade 12 was good, and as I looked around the lunch table, I couldn't help but hope that it would stay that way forever.