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By: Hoshi

Graphics by: Cassius Klai C. Francisco

Sun rays burned on my skin as I walked through an overused path. Bushes well-trimmed, trees that grew big, I thought it was a great day as the weather did not betray.

I continued walking and thinking, warm home, my home, and I was nearly there. Skipping through the uneven paths, worn by the decades of using it. Even the bees are happy, the trees are dancing, and I am prancing.

Nearing the end of the road, a mansion loomed over. It was almost in ruins, older than it looked. A simple glance at the façade of the structure made me want to turn back. My eyes linger around the lot, back to the dancing trees and singing birds. But the house stared daggers into my soul, forcing my attention back to it.

A dreaded feeling washed over me as I took a step on the porch. The creaking sound made it worse with each step I took. In front of me was a gloomy wooden door. Panic burst through me, signaling I turn back, that I should leave. But I know I can’t. This is my home whether it accepts me or not. The alarm in my head worsens as I reach for the knob. I swung it open and it all went silent.

The glass in my head shattered as I walked through the darkened halls. A cold, devoid of the colors of a home. Lights are dim whenever I enter a room. The pillars shake with anger at the mere sight of me. Beyond the Capiz windows, trees wither, and the sing-song dead.

I turn my head down as the light flickers. It was hard to accept, but the rose-tinted glass shattered to dust. They all turned their backs as soon as I walked through the door. Their faces of shock and disappointment carved scars that I know would never heal.

Yet the shivering stopped. The lump in my heart had gone to the abyss. I let out a breath of relief. For once, I felt at home in my own skin.