92 THIS IS MY STORY - ZOE

"And I thought I was miserable," Zoe uttered to herself as she listened to the crestfallen stories of her former classmates while they were sharing them.

At last, it was Zoe's turn to share. She was ashamed to tell it because her side of the story was a good one compared to theirs. She doesn't want to sound like she's bragging about it. Still, she decided to open up herself to them. 

"I don't have any tragic stories to tell." She said as she introduced her life journey after their high school graduation.

"Luck you. You had a good life. The wheel of fortune turned," One of them sympathetically responded. All of them knew what happened to her immediate family and how she lost their fortune and everything she had.

'Hasn't it?' Zoe thought to herself. She reminisced about her college days aloud. And as she opened them, she realized how lonely her life had been.

"After we graduate, I left for Australia to study. I focused on having the highest honors, so I spend my time earning it. I eventually reap what I sow. I am the top student at our university. But I'm not contented with that. I studied Medical Hospital Administration for another three years, in which I recently graduated."

"Wow, from level 0 to level 100," Kristie commented in wide eyes admiration of hew new found friend.

"Yes, you're one remarkable woman Zoe. You don't need anyone, not connections or money, to prove your worth now." Clay agreed.

"I hate to admit it but I was stunned that our mean attitude then didn't sway you at all. Savannah will be pissed when she heard this." Nella replied also.

All of the Norfolks responded likewise. They were happy for the slow-but-sure success of Zoe after her childhood trauma. 

Zoe should have been happy. This was what she was after. Even Savannah's friends were astounded. But Zoe felt empty inside. Because even though she got what she wanted, she realized that the dynamic seasons of life left her. She has no story to tell. 

And she admitted it in front of everybody. "That's it," Zoe answered. "I got my fulfilled ambition, but I have no time for family, friends, or love life. You all are blessed that whether you're in despair or even just when something good happens, you have them with you."

She carried on. "I've been in Australia for 12 years now, but this is the first time my feet felt sand. I haven't even strolled in a park, mall, or movie house. I couldn't remember the last time I even called my maternal uncle who is the reason why I can study here. This is also my first time to attend a party. And this is…"

She glanced at Raigon, who was staring at her intently while she was pouring her heart out. She was supposed to say, "my first time to get physically close to a guy who was making her heart beat wild." But she didn't and changed her mind as she darted her glistening eyes away.

"The first time I hang around with a group of lifelong acquaintances like you, laughing, chatting around, encouraging others, and being encouraged in return. And I think it's more fun and fulfilling than what I felt when I received prestigious trophies and class medals. Back then I felt like I'm just breathing for the sake of existing. But now I feel like I'm really living." She smiled at them. 

"Aww, let's group hug!" Kristie responded, in which everybody agreed as they put their affectionate arms around each other. 

Zoe drew in a deep breath. 'It feels so good to finally let it all out.'

"You mean you haven't gotten any boyfriend since then?" One of them asked after they let go of each other. Zoe shook her head swiftly in visible embarrassment. 

"You sure miss a lot, Zoe. Don't worry when we get back, I will tour you to every iconic bar I've been through. And I'll give your number to all the rich hunks I know," Nella responded which made them laugh. 

Except for one man who cleared his throat in a loud volume which is heard even to the ends of the beach. 

"Mr. Gao, how about you?" Nella turned to him and grinned. "What's your story?" 

Zoe couldn't believe her ears. She glimpsed at Nella and then to Raigon. Raigon was very cautious about divulging his distinct identity. How would he get away with this?

She wanted to help him out like what she did for him back then when they were with Erin at the Sweet Escape restaurant. But this time, she will not. 

'It's time to come clean, Mr. Raigon Wang.' She darted her fierce eyes on Raigon like piercing arrows. Everyone was waiting for him. 

Meanwhile, Raigon's persuasive tongue rolled back to his brawny throat. He was being sentimental with all the emotional stories he has heard, especially Zoe's. He was glad that they had each other like sponges where they can absorb and share each other griefs and happiness. 

"You can share them with us, Mr. Gao. You must have some inner struggles that you haven't even opened up to your family," Kristie persuaded him.

"Yes, dude. Don't worry, what we hear we'll leave it here," Clay rolled on while zipping his mouth and encouraging others to do the same.

At the back of his conscious mind, he wished he could do the same. He also hasn't shared his heart with anyone. He was the grand Crowned Prince. And he was expected to always be strong and mighty, to their local people, his faithful servants, and even to the royal family.

But he was faithfully carrying a city secret that shouldn't be divulged to the modern world, no matter how innocent they look. Or else, his citizens might be in imminent danger again. He wouldn't dare to that to their most protected abode. 

It was now his turn. 'Could I really tell them about it? That I am a noble prince at a legendary land? And that now I am here on this lovely island because I am on a perilous mission to stop another bloodbath in the City? Would they understand that?' 

He peeked at Zoe who was staring daggers at her. She was also expecting a satisfactory answer. 

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Relationships, not achievements 

Or acquisitions of things

Are what matters most in life.

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