On her way home, another call came in from that number. This time, Sophia didn’t answer, declining the call right away. The moment she arrived home, she threw her cell phone aside as soon as she stepped foot in the house. Then, she went to the bathroom and washed her face.
When she came out after having done so, she stood in the living room with her arms akimbo. Well, well, I’m no longer hungry now. Instead, both my heart and stomach feel leaden.
After a while, her cell phone rang again. Closing her eyes, she ignored it and let it go to voicemail. This time, however, the caller was particularly persistent, calling again when the call went unanswered. As Sophia listened to the incessant ringing of her cell phone, random thoughts crept into her mind, making her exceedingly irritable.
When it rang for the third time, she strode over in a few strides and picked up the call once more. “How did you get my phone number?” she demanded before the person on the other end could say anything.
There was a brief silence before the woman replied, “I went back to the village. An elder in the village gave it to me.”
Sophia laughed soundlessly. Oh yes, I left my phone number with a neighbor back when Grandpa passed away and said to contact me anytime if something happens. She then asked, “Why did you return when you’ve left for so many years? Are you in the village now?”
“No, I’m not.” The woman sounded pitiful as she answered, “I’m now elsewhere. I heard about you, so I went back for a look.”
Sophia licked her posterior molar. “What did you hear about me? Well?”
A brief silence ensued before a voice drifted over from the other end. “I heard that you got married. I’m elated, yet I’m also sad that I wasn’t by your side. I’m really sorry for not having attended your wedding.”
At this, Sophia burst out laughing. “So? Why are you calling now? My wedding was a year ago. There’s nothing you can do even if you contact me now.”
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