Reilly's POV
Money is the most powerful thing in the world. You can literally buy anything with money. It keeps the world go round and makes things happen.
But unfortunately, my family's not lucky enough to have it. We're on the poor side of the society and believe me when I say that there are less opportunities when you have no money in your pockets.
I'm proud to say that I'm smart enough to be be a consistent top student in my previous school. That's my only key for our better future. I'm doing my best to help my family. I don't want us to stay in this state. I want them to live the comfortable life they deserve.
"Pick these up honey," I heard my mom say. I pulled myself up and pick the small potatoes we had planted last year. They grew well.
My mom's a greengrocer. She has a huge talent in planting healthy fruits and vegetables. Our small backyard made our little business happen.
"Where should I take this?" I asked.
"Just leave them on the shed. I'll take care of it once I'm done plowing the ground," she answers. My heart clenched when I saw how tired my mom looks. Her hands are covered in dirt.
I wanted to stop her from working in the yard but this is the only way we can buy ourselves food.
I have no memory of my father. My mom would always pretend to not hear me everytime I try to ask her about him. I learned to undestand her silence. He must have left an ugly wound in her chest for her to hate him so much.
I carried the heavy basket and bring it to our small shed.
School will start very soon and I'm still empty-handed. I sent my requirements to different universities already but I haven't receive any calls yet.
It's okay. I still have plenty of time. Two weeks? And if I ever got rejected this year then I'll just try again next year. This year won't be a waste anyway. I can spend my time working in the backyard while waiting for the next school year. It's a win-win.
"Reilley! Reilley!" a small voice called. The sound of her small footsteps put a smile on my face. I turned to see my little sister running to me.
"Oww!" I groaned when she jumped in my arms. "You're so heavy, Eunice!" I jokingly said. She pouted her lips and frowned.
"I am not heavy Reilley! I got bigger because I'm turning into a lady," she defends herself. I chuckled.
I put her down and wipe the sweat on my face. "Look at you acting all mature and bratty again. Have you taken a shower though?" I asked. Her cheeks turned pink. I laughed. I knew it young lady.
"Go back to the house and take a shower kid!" I commanded which she obeyed half heartedly.
She never liked the idea of taking a shower. My six year old sister says that the water is too cold. Well she's not wrong. We don't get to experience hot showers in here.
I was about to go back on the backyard when my phone vibrated. I wiped my hands clean and grab my phone in my pocket.
"Hello?" I answered. Must be one of our customers.
"Good morning. Is this Reilley Lannes?" the caller asked. My forehead creased. She doesn't know me? Why else would she call my number then?
My eyes grew big when I suddenly realize who the caller was. I immediately moved away the phone from my ear and check the caller.
Felona High
Oh my gosh!
"Hello?! Yes it's me. I'm Reilley Lannes," I replied. I combed my hair nervously using my hand, not minding the dirt and mud covering it.
"Congratulations Reilley Lannes! We've received the documents you have passed through online registration and we're happy to inform you that you can enroll in our school. We will grant you a full scholarship with monthly allowance and free dorm. We will be expecting you on monday next week if it's alright?"
My mind became blank. Someone please tell me that this is not a dream. A full scholarship? With monthly allowance and free dorm?! Oh my freaking gosh!
"Mister Lannes?" the woman calls.
"Y—Yes! I will be there, ma'am. Thank you so much!" I cried.
This is a dream come true!
I did not waste any time and shared the news to mom. She was jumping in joy and I couldn't help it but cry. I've been wanting for this moment to happen. I can't believe I'm going to study in a prestigious school!
"You should pack your stuffs Reilley," my mom says. I chuckled. I'm glad to see her happy and excited. But monday's five days from now. It's too early to pack my stuffs.
"Mom, let's just finish all these first. Then let's have our lunch and talk about it, alright?" I chuckled.
A smile formed in my lips when my mom suddenly pulled me to an embrace. I pat her back.
"What good have I done to deserve a kind son like you," she sobs. I smiled weakly.
No mom. What good have I done to deserve a loving and hardworking mom like you. I wanted to say that but I know that it will only make her crying worse. I pat her back softly.
"Mom! Seriously. Don't cry. We should be happy," I said cheerfully. Mom pulled away from me and wiped her face. I smiled.
"Oh dear. I'm sorry. I just can't help it. I'm so proud of you."
We went back to business after that. Mom cooked us our favorite food. She said that we needed to celebrate. This must be one of the most happiest day of my life. To see my Mom happy and to feel the slightest hint of hope in our lives.
This is my stepping stone. And I will do everything to keep on moving and reach my dreams. No obstacles can stop me. No one can. I'll do everything for my family. No matter what it takes. I won't waste this opportunity.
I am Reilly Lannes. An eighteen year old closeted gay. I've never opened with anyone before. I just don't feel the need to do so. I have more problems to prioritize than my sexual orientation. Helping my family is my main goal. Spoiling my little sister is my dream. And I believe that I can only do that if I finish my studies and find myself a high paying job.
And if that means studying so hard to maintain my high grades and fighting homesickness, I am more than willing to endure all of that for my family's better future.
No matter what.
