The first

I haven’t heard from her, an old friend from our school days, for the longest time.

A couple of days, her online moniker blinked on in my MSN contact list and we chatted briefly. In between updating me about the developments in her professional life and travels made in the past year, she said she has just begun seeing someone else.

While I had heard from a mutual friend about the bad news, I feigned not knowing.

It’s a long story, she wrote. I’ll call you later.

Sure.

She did call. Two days later.

“We have separated,” she said. “I found out he was cheating on me.”

“When was this?”

“About half a year ago.”

I sighed. “And you only tell me now. You could’ve called me much earlier, you know? We used to talk about everything.”

“I know, I know,” she said, sheepishly. “You’re a close friend, but I didn’t feel like repeating the same thing to one person after another; I just wanted some quiet. Hope you understand.”

“Of course I do. It’s not important that you didn’t. How are you holding up?”

“Surprisingly well,” she said. And I could almost see that half-smile on her face, accompanied by that half-shrug she was so fond of doing.

“I’m flying to London tomorrow,” she announced. “But I’ll be back. I’ll see you then, yeah?”

“Take care, girl.”

* * * * * *

The second

How strange it felt to be hearing the news from the mouth of someone else that she has begun seeing someone else.

In a way, I am relived. But as much as I want to feel happy for her, I feel a sense of dread in me and I felt myself hoping that she does, indeed, know what she is doing.

Are you happy?

* * * * * *

The third

The words from the new acquaintance made in the course of planning Tasha & Tommy’s wedding came flying fast across the small chat window.

What do you think of him? Looks like a nice boy, right?

I’m not impressed, frankly, I replied without hesitation. I’m not impressed by men who have nothing to say.

Maybe he hasn’t warmed up to you? Besides, opposites attract, no?

He’s not her type. She deserves someone better.

And I sincerely believe what I said.