And then there’s Grace, Carly and Rannie, our other friends.  They were always in relationships – relationships that sometimes I had to break for them because they’ve already moved on to the next girl or guy while I see the shattered faces of their former lovers.  Maybe I didn’t want something fleeting.  Maybe I wanted something real that’s why I stayed away from commitments.  I didn’t want another Tessa in my life or maybe I was more afraid of falling out of love – again.  I wouldn’t want to see despair in someone’s eyes, especially if I caused it.  That’s why I refuse to be close to someone.  I would rather just hang out.  I never slip.  I never lead anyone on.  It’s been awhile and my friends are constantly bugging me to go on dates or just get laid.  Celibacy makes me touchy they say. 

CARLY:  So when are you leaving? 

CARMEN:  What?  Sorry I was…

ALL:  Pre-occupied!

GRACE:  Carly asked when you’re flying out to Bora.

CARMEN:  Oh I got this good deal but I have to drive or take a bus to Clark and hop on the plane from there.  That’s on Wednesday morning.

RANNIE:  This Wednesday you mean?

CARMEN:  That’s right!  I have not packed and I haven’t told my Mom.

AUDREY:  Wait, wait I think I can bring you to Clark.  I have to pick up this doctor and take him out for a meeting.  So what time do you have to be there?

Audrey works as a Sales Representative for this huge pharma company and she’s always on the road. 

CARMEN:  Sweet!  I board at 11am.  What time should you meet the doctor?

AUDREY:  Not til 1pm but we can leave early and we can have breakfast.  I don’t mind.

CARMEN:  Okay then I really have to pack some stuff.  That’s great!  And thank you Aud. 

RANNIE: Before you leave, there’s still time.  I have this friend at work who totally swears that she’s done with girls BUT she has a sister who just got back from London.  She works there as a nurse and would like to meet new friends.  I told them we’d go sometime.  You free tomorrow?

CARMEN:  I only have one day to do everything so I can relax in Boracay for 7 days.  I don’t think I want to go out before the trip.