The Only Exception

Song 7: Part Of Me

“Patience Denise, patience.” She said as she plopped down beside me.

“Psh! You’re one to talk.” I scoffed, knowing that even she doesn’t have patience. She just glared at me.

“How many freaking struggles do I have to face ‘till I’m strong enough?” My voice rose up louder.

“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is true strength.” Nikki said, leaning her head down.

“How will I find strength to face all of these challenges when I’m left with nothing? Not even hope. What happened to me hurts, Nikki. Nothing hurts more than being disappointed by the single person you thought would never hurt you.” I said quietly as tears started to form in my eyes.

“What hurts you today makes you stronger tomorrow. When something bad happens, you have three choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you, or you can let it strengthen you.” She said as she moved closer to me and ran her hand up and down my back, trying to calm me down.

“ Thank you.” I mumbled as I let the tears fall. She leaned my head on her shoulder as I cried.

After a good cry, I decided to ask her.

“Hey Nikki, san mo nanaman nakuha yang mga yan this time?” I asked her.

“The what?” She asked, not having a clue.

“Ang mga pangaral ni Lola Nikki. (-___-)” I told her.

“Ah, eh...Sa google. Hehe!” She said as she smiled sheepishly.

“Have you ever been in love?” I asked her.

“Well, nope. Why?” She asked.

“Pag na- in love ka, maiintindihan mo rin ako.”

“Hmmm. Well then, I think it’s time to go down.” She told me, pointing down. Ugh!

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(Seth’s POV)