Chapter 23: Stunned

Josh Rain Montez

I yawned several times as if something was pulling the corners of my eyes, urging them to close. Despite the temptation to shut them, I resisted, repeatedly blinking until my cellphone rang, interrupting the quiet moment. I quickly answered the call while driving.

"Why?" I asked Sissy as soon as I picked up.

"Where are you?" she inquired.

"I'm on my way to pick up Patty," I responded.

"You're probably late in leaving home earlier," she blamed.

"The party doesn't start until later tonight—"

"Did you think I wouldn't know? You came home in the wee hours last night with Ramil. That's why you're sleep-deprived now," she continued with her sermon.

I sighed. Ramil was always so loyal to Sissy that I ended up taking the fall. "And you believe too much in what Ramil—"

"Oh, Josh. I'm telling you. You might have an accident on the road because of your drowsiness. Call me when you reach Aika's place. I'll have Rodnie pick you up—"

"No need, Sissy," I quickly cut her off