The Warrior Within
The Warrior Within (Riztie Rabacal)
A child in Grade 5 was studying in a school in a remote province. Her name was Claire Davis. Despite the challenges she faced such as being bullied by classmates and receiving unfair treatment from teachers. She was able to finish her elementary education. She had three friends: Cynthia Higgins, Jennifer Miller, and Gracia Garcia (an American-Spanish girl). Whenever they met at school, they would play and laugh together. Claire was a very kind child.
One day, Cynthia’s older sister, Barbara, wished to marry a foreigner in hopes of having a better life. Cynthia was very happy, believing they now had a chance to become wealthy. She knew her sister was clever and would succeed in marrying a rich man because of her intelligence. Her friends, including Claire, were also happy for her.
Cynthia: Girls, you know what? My sister Barbara said she’s going to look for a foreigner to marry. That way, our lives will improve.
Gracia: Wow, your sister is really smart.
Cynthia: Of course! Ever since childhood, she’s always been on top. She wants the same in real life too.
Life is so hard nowadays, and my sister doesn’t want to suffer.
Claire: But Cynthia, isn’t that wrong? Isn’t her plan bad? If someone gets married, it should be because of love. I despise that kind of act. She wants to claim something she didn’t even work hard for.
Cynthia: Girl, acting all saintly isn’t in style anymore. What matters is how we live and survive.
Claire: Fine then, think whatever you want.
(Claire whispered to herself): Ew, I don’t want to be like her. It’s so cheap to do that. It only proves she can’t stand on her own two feet. It’s okay to suffer as long as I don’t use or step on other people.
Claire: Come on, let’s play! Let’s play chase me! Hahaha!
Jennifer: Oh no, I don’t want to. My foot hurts.
Claire: Don’t tell me you’re scared of being caught. You run so slow, even someone weighing 100 pounds could outrun you.
Jennifer: Wow, Claire, that’s harsh. Why? Are you really that fast at running?
Cynthia: Oh, come on, you two. I’m already far ahead. Try to catch me!
Claire & Jennifer: Hey, cheater! Wait for us. We’ll catch you and give you a smack!
Cynthia: Just try!
Cynthia ran as fast as she could, and Jennifer and Claire chased after her. Finally, the school bell rang.
Cynthia: You didn’t catch me! Hahaha!
Time passed, and it was dismissal time. They were all
ready to go home.
Claire: Goodbye, my friends. See you tomorrow! Hahaha!
Cynthia: Let’s play chase me again tomorrow.
Jennifer: I don’t want to anymore.
Gracia: Why didn’t you include me earlier?
Jennifer: Where were you, anyway?
Gracia: I’ll just join tomorrow instead… huhuhu.
Narrator: Claire arrived home and saw her mother, Mrs. Charlotte Davis, sweeping the floor.
Claire: Hey Mom, I’m home.
Charlotte: Oh, you’re here already. And why are you sweating so much?
Claire: It was so hot at school, Mom. You know there aren’t any electric fans.
Charlotte: Alright then, go change your clothes.
Claire: Mom, when is Dad coming home?
Charlotte: When he gets his salary, dear. You know he only comes home after payday since he’s on stay-in work.
Claire: Ah, okay.
Charlotte: It’s the 14th today, so that means tomorrow is his payday. We’ll go out again. Yay! Are you happy?
Claire: Yes, Mom, hehehe. We’ll visit Grandpa and Grandma in the city again.
Charlotte: And you’ll get to play with Cynthia at night too.
Claire: You’re right, Mom. Yay!
CHAPTER 2 THE ENCOUNTER
Narrator: It was morning at Claire’s house when her mother woke her up.
Charlotte: Hey, angel, wake up. Breakfast is ready. Hurry and take a bath, you might be late for class.
Claire: What time is it, Mom?
Charlotte: It’s almost six o’clock. Your class starts at eight.
Claire: That’s still so early.
Charlotte: It’s better if you take it easy.
Claire: Alright, Mom, I’m getting up now.
Charlotte: My child is truly so good.
(Narrator: Claire finished taking her bath.)
Claire: I’m here now, Mom. I’m done bathing.
Charlotte: That’s good, my child. Now go have breakfast before heading to school.
Claire: Yes, Mom.
Claire: I’m done eating, Mom.
Charlotte: That’s good, my child.
Claire: I’ll get dressed now before I go to school.
Charlotte: Alright then.
Charlotte: Wait, don’t come home here first, my child. Go straight to your grandparents’ house. I’ll be waiting there. You know today is your father’s payday, and tomorrow we’ll go out and have a family gathering since he has no work.
Claire: Ah, alright Mom. I’ll just go with Jennifer, Gracia, and especially Cynthia.
Charlotte: That’s a good idea, my child.
(Narrator: After class ended, Claire walked home with her friends.)
Cynthia: Good thing, Claire, you can walk home with me now.
Claire: Yes, Cynthia.
Jennifer: You know what, I have a crush on someone in our room. He’s really handsome.
Claire: Who? Jeffrey?
Jennifer: No, Calvin.
Cynthia: What? Him? I thought it was Jeff. He’s the most handsome boy in the classroom. Why Calvin?
You think he’s handsome?
Claire: Cynthia’s right, Jennifer. Calvin is the ugliest boy in the whole class, and for you he’s suddenly handsome?
Gracia: You must have upside-down eyes!
Jennifer: Oh come on, if you like someone, he becomes handsome in your eyes.
(Narrator: After an hour, Claire and Cynthia arrived. Claire’s grandparents’ house was just near Cynthia’s home.)
Claire: Cynthia, we’ve arrived. There’s my mother, waiting for me. My father is with her.
Cynthia: Yes, and I’ll head home too. Let’s meet later. We’ll play truth or dare, just the two of us.
Claire: Sure.
Narrator: An hour later, Mrs. Davis asked Claire to buy vegetables. While walking toward the store, Claire ran into Barbara, Cynthia’s older sister. Claire began to think.)
Claire, thinking: Oh no… Cynthia’s older sister. She’s so beautiful. Could what Cynthia said be true? Oh my!
Narrator: Claire suddenly stopped when Barbara called her name. .
Barbara: Hey Claire, come here.
Claire: Why? What do you want to say?
Barbara: (pointing at Claire) Don’t you dare try to steal my boyfriend, hmm.
(Narrator: Claire fell silent, surprised, and asked herself.)
(Claire, thinking): What’s gotten into her? Why is she suddenly acting like this?
Claire: What do you mean? Why?
Narrator: Barbara’s mother, Mrs. Mary Higgins, was confronting Barbara.
Mary: Barb, what was that? Why did you speak that way to that child? You know she’s your cousin. What did Claire ever do to you? She might tell Charlotte, and then we’ll be in trouble with your father. You know your father isn’t considerate, and he’s hot-tempered.
Barbara: That girl looks like she’s trying to steal my boyfriend.
Mary: “Well, well! So that child already knows how to flirt? She deserves punishment. Be careful, Barbara. That girl might become friends with your boyfriend, she might try to seduce him, and she could even tell him what your real intentions are with your rich boyfriend.
Narrator: Cynthia overheard the conversation between her mother and older sister.
Cynthia: “Mom, what was that I just heard?
Barbara: You little brat! Why are you here? Go back to your room, or I’ll slap you.
Mary: Go on, Cynthia, go inside. If your older sister becomes rich, she’ll share it with you.
Cynthia (terrified): Yes, Mom.
Narrator: Cynthia overheard what her mother and sister were saying about Claire. As they continued talking, Cynthia began to wonder to herself.
Cynthia (whispering to herself): What? Claire can do that? But she doesn’t even know my sister’s boyfriend. Could Claire be a stalker?
Cynthia: “I’ll find out about that. After all, we usually just play hide-and-seek, truth or dare, and other games.
CHAPTER 3 CHILD’S ANGER.
Narrator: Charlotte could see the tension building. She had noticed how Barbara seemed to be picking on Claire, her anger directed at the child for reasons that weren’t clear.
When Claire finally arrived home after buying the vegetables her mother had asked for, Charlotte wasted no time. She looked at her daughter with concern and asked immediately:
Charlotte: What’s going on? What’s her problem? What happened to her?
Narrator: Claire lowered her eyes.
Claire: Nothing, Mom…
Charlotte: Is she picking on you?
Narrator: Claire couldn’t answer. She didn’t even understand what had just happened.,why Barbara seemed so angry with her. It all felt sudden, confusing, and heavy, as though she had stumbled into a storm she never caused.
Charlotte: Don’t worry, I’m here. They’ll have to answer to me if they hurt my child. So speak up.
Claire: Later, when we’re home.
Narrator: Four hours passed. Their outing was finished, and they were on their way back. When they arrived at the house, Charlotte immediately began questioning Claire again.
Charlotte: Speak up!!!
Narrator: Claire finally answered, her voice trembling with anger.
Claire: Mom, she said to me, ‘You’re such a flirt. Don’t you dare steal my foreign boyfriend. Don’t meddle in our lives.’ But I never meddled! I don’t even know her boyfriend I’ve never even seen him. And I have no intention of being like her. If I ever become like her, I’ll ask you, Mom, to slap me. because that wouldn’t be me anymore. I don’t want to be like her. People like her are among the worst kinds in the world, and sometimes I feel disgusted even thinking about it.. IIIII DONTTTTT EVEN CARE HER. SHE’S A SCUMBAG.
I was horrified when she said that to me. I don’t even want a boyfriend yet, because the idea disgusts me. So why would she accuse me of being a thief?
Charlotte: Calm down, child, calm down. Could she be losing her mind?
Claire: It seems like it.
Charlotte: What’s wrong with her…
Narrator: Their voices carried through the house, and Claire’s father, Mr. Jerry Davis, overheard the exchange.
Jerry: What did Barbara do to you, child? Did she hurt you? Her father is my close friend I’ll report her.
Charlotte: Not now. There will be a right time for that.
Jerry: Alright, it’s up to you. But I believe Claire can handle this. Our daughter is a brave child.
Claire: Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll fight back.
Jerry: That’s my daughter she knows how to stand up for herself
Claire: She thinks she can scare me. Even if I’m young, I can knock her down.
Narrator: After their long journey and talk, it was finally time to rest. Claire fell into a deep sleep, her worries momentarily forgotten. Meanwhile, Jerry and Charlotte spoke quietly in the dim light of their room.
Jerry: Hon, is our child really so nonchalant?
Charlotte: Maybe not… but what I can say is she’s careless.
Jerry: How could Barbara even say such things to Claire?
Charlotte: Don’t you think she only used our daughter? Perhaps Barbara wanted the whole neighborhood to know she has a foreign boyfriend that she’ll be rich someday. Maybe she used Claire just to be noticed, to show off how clever she thinks she is. And she doesn’t care if our daughter ends up looking bad in the eyes of others.”
Narrator: The next morning, Claire went to school. She met again with her three close friends, and it seemed as if nothing had happened the day before. Cynthia approached her carefully, not wanting to start any conflict she preferred to keep things hidden.
Cynthia: Hi, Claire.
Claire: Hi, Cynthia. How are you? Let’s play later.
Jennifer: Count me in!
Claire: Where’s Gracia again?
Jennifer: There she is, being asked by the teacher to do something. She’s such a teacher’s pet.
Cynthia: Not really. Gracia’s just obedient.
Claire: I hope she can join us in our game later.
Jennifer: Yey, yey!
Claire: Look, there’s Calvin.
Jennifer: Where?
Claire: Over there, in the canteen.
Narrator: Jennifer immediately ran toward Calvin in the canteen.
Cynthia: Jen is really so flirty.
Claire: Hey, don’t say that. She likes Calvin because of his kindness.
Narrator: Time passed, and the four friends reached Grade 6.
Claire: Thanks to fate…” we’re still classmates, the four of us! Haha, the principal didn’t separate us.
Gracia: That’s because our principal knows how close we are.
Jennifer: Yes, and guess what? Calvin and I are friends now, and we’re even seatmates.
Claire: So that means he’s our classmate too?
Cynthia: Woah!, I’m thrilled!
Cynthia: You know what, my older sister’s foreign boyfriend is planning to take her to his country.
Claire: Really? Well, that’s good then.
Narrator: Claire felt relieved. She was happy that no one would disturb her again, and she prayed Barbara wouldn’t come back so she wouldn’t have to feel disgusted by her anymore.
Claire (thinking): Thank goodness. I hope she never returns. She disgusts me. I used to look up to her, but not anymore.
Jennifer: Sorry, Cynthia, with all due respect… your sister is a gold digger. And that’s wrong. Do you even approve of what she’s doing?
Gracia: Ewww. That’s disgusting. I agree on you Claire.
Cynthia: What’s wrong with you all? Yes, because she’ll do anything just to rise up. If you don’t like what she’s done, then when we get rich, I won’t share with you, especially you, Claire.
Claire: Don’t tell me you’re going crazy too, just like your older sister?”I don’t care you or even your older sister. SCUMBAG.
Jennifer: Calm down, Claire.
Narrator: Cynthia’s eyes widened in shock at Claire’s sudden burst of anger.
Claire (furious): When? And tell her not to come back if her plan is only to cause trouble. Tell her even if I’m just a child I can slap her. She should know I won’t let her disturb me again.
Narrator: An hour later, during lunch break, Claire walked toward the store. As she passed by, she overheard the whispers of her former teachers.
Ms. Harper (Teacher 1): There goes that foolish child again, hahaha.
Ms. White (Teacher 2): If she goes to high school, she’ll only bring shame to our school, hahaha. Hopefully Ms. Morisson won’t let her pass.
Mr. Clarkson (Teacher 3): Don’t judge that child so harshly. Even if she seems that way, she’s brave. And I trust Claire. Be careful she might hear you, and you could end up facing a complaint.
Ms. Harper: Did you know she painted something obscene on Ms. Miller’s door drew a man’s private part and vandalized it? Hahaha, what a wicked girl.
Mr. Clarkson: We already know who was accused, don’t we? She was only blamed. The one who accused her was actually the one who did it.
Ms. White: Why are you defending Claire so much? What is she to you?
Mr. Clarkson: I’m simply a teacher who wants to help children. And I don’t agree with your judgment. You sound like people without education even though you’re supposed to be teachers.
Narrator: A year passed, and the four friends finally graduated from elementary school. The ceremony was filled with laughter, proud parents, and the bittersweet feeling of leaving behind their childhood classrooms. Claire, Cynthia, Jennifer, and Gracia stood together, their bond stronger than ever despite the challenges and conflicts that had surrounded them.
The principal’s voice echoed in the hall, praising their batch for resilience and unity. Claire looked at her friends and smiled, grateful that through all the whispers, jealousy, and misunderstandings, they had remained side by side.
As they tossed their caps into the air, the moment marked not just the end of elementary school, but the beginning of a new chapter one where friendships would be tested even more, and where the shadows of Barbara’s choices might still linger in their lives.
Principal’s Speech:
“Good morning, graduates, parents, and teachers. Today marks a milestone in your lives—the completion of your elementary journey. This is not just an ending, but the beginning of new opportunities and challenges that await you in high school and beyond.
Over the years, you have learned lessons not only from books but also from experiences—lessons of friendship, respect, perseverance, and responsibility. These values will guide you as you step into the next stage of your education.
Remember, success is not measured solely by grades or achievements, but by the kindness you show, the integrity you uphold, and the courage you carry in facing life’s trials. Each of you has the potential to make a difference, and I encourage you to use your talents to uplift others and contribute positively to your community.
As you move forward, cherish the memories you’ve made here, and let them inspire you to aim higher. We, your teachers and mentors, are proud of you. Congratulations, graduates. May you continue to shine brightly in all that you do.
narrator: Gracia became the valedictorian and gave her speech
Gracia’s Valedictory Speech:
Honored guests, respected teachers, beloved parents, and my fellow graduates today is not just a ceremony, it is a moment that will live in our hearts forever.
Standing here as valedictorian, I feel the weight of every sacrifice, every sleepless night, and every word of encouragement that brought me to this stage. This honor is not mine alone it belongs to my parents, who carried me with their love and lifted me with their strength. You are my heroes, and this victory is yours as much as it is mine.
To my friends Claire, Jennifer, Cynthia, who walked beside me through laughter and tears you are the reason school became more than lessons and exams. You taught me loyalty, courage, and the beauty of standing together even when life tried to pull us apart. Without you, this journey would have been empty.
To our teachers, who gave us not only knowledge but wisdom you lit the path when we were lost, and you believed in us when we doubted ourselves.
Today, as we close the chapter of our childhood, I ask all of us to carry forward the lessons of kindness, perseverance, and hope. Let us dream boldly, fight bravely, and never forget the roots that shaped us.
This is not the end it is the beginning of a greater story. Congratulations, graduates. The world is waiting for us.
Narrator: After the graduation ceremony, everyone went home. Claire and her mother stopped by the nearest store for snacks. The place was crowded, and whispers filled the air. Many people wondered aloud how Claire managed to graduate.
She looks so innocent… maybe she should’ve stayed in elementary. In high school she might just flirt around or go with any boy,” some murmured.
But one voice rose above the whispers Charlotte’s cousin, Aaliyah, unable to hold back her sharp tongue.
Aaliyah: Oh Charlotte, I’m concerned for you. Don’t let her go to high school she’ll just end up pregnant before the year even ends! Hahaha! She’s so stupid, she’ll just be fooled again and again by any boy. Poor Claire!
Narrator: The crowd laughed, feeding off Aaliyah’s cruelty.
Charlotte: I trust my daughter. If something like that happens, then so be it.
Claire: Well, I hope so. Honestly, I also want to have a child early. Yes, I want to marry young.
Narrator: One bystander couldn’t resist adding fuel to the fire.
Allysa: Hahaha! Look at you, Charlotte. Poor you, having a daughter like that. You’ll suffer.
Claire: And will you suffer too?
Allysa (underestimating Claire): Oh please, I have nothing to do with you. Hahaha! Why would I suffer? You really are stupid.
Claire (angrily): Is that so? Then why do you react as if you’ll be dragged into our future suffering? If my family suffers because of our own choices, that’s none of your business you won’t be affected. If I were you, Mrs. Allysa, I’d just focus on your own battles. Maybe it’s your child who’ll get pregnant first you know how she behaves. I even know that just as her classmate, so how much more you as her mother?
I never commented because you’re not part of my life. You disgust me.
Charlotte: watch your tone Allysa.
Claire: leave them alone mom they are worthless not worth of our effort.
Narrator: everyone felt silent. And shocked how Claire fought like that.
CHAPTER 4: The War Has Just Begun
Narrator: Months after graduation, the paths of the four friends slowly began to diverge. Each one was stepping into a new chapter of life, chasing different dreams.
Claire, however, found herself enrolling in the nearest high school. She didn’t like the idea of attending that school it felt too close, too connected to her old elementary. A fear lingered in her heart: what if the teachers from before reached out, what if they made her life difficult again?
Memories of the past weighed heavily on her. She remembered the struggles, the harsh words, the unfair treatment she had endured from some of her teachers. The thought of reliving those experiences filled her with unease.
Yet, beneath her worry, there was a quiet strength. Claire knew she had survived before, and she carried with her the determination not to be broken again.
Narrator: The high school stood 3 kilometers away from her old elementary. It was a completely different building, a different environment. Claire looked around and let out a small breath she didn’t see any familiar faces. None of her previous teachers were present during the enrollment.
But the feeling of unease never left her. She knew too well that even if they weren’t standing there physically, their influence reached far.
Charlotte: See, Claire? It’s peaceful here. No one is bothering us. Let’s go to the registrar.
Claire: Yes, Mom… but be careful. I have a bad feeling.
Narrator: They approached the table where the teachers were processing documents. Everything seemed normal until the teacher handling the forms looked at Claire’s name on the card.
Teacher: Claire Davis... from Wilson elementary School.
Claire: Yes, Ma’am.
Narrator: The teacher suddenly stopped writing. She looked at Claire from head to toe, then picked up a small notebook and checked something. She exchanged a look with the teacher beside her.
Teacher 1: Oh... I see. Ms. Harper and Ms. White already mentioned you to us.
Claire: (clenched her jaw) “mAnd what did they say, Ma’am?
Teacher 1: They said you are a difficult student. Very talkative, disrespectful, and hard to handle. They warned us to watch out for you.
Claire: “Ma’am, I am good when people treat me well. But if you try to torture me, expect me to fight back like a warrior.
Charlotte: Excuse me? They said that? But my daughter graduated with good conduct!
Teacher 1: Well, we have our sources, Ma’am. We trust our fellow teachers. We just hope for the sake of your child that those reports are wrong.
Narrator: Claire felt her blood boil. Even though they were 3 kilometers away, those wicked teachers already poisoned the minds of her new teachers before she even stepped foot in the room! They used their connections to paint her as a bad person.
Claire: (whispering to herself) Cowards. They aren’t even here, but they are already stabbing my back. So this is the game they want to play.
Charlotte: Come on, Claire. Let’s sign the papers. Let them talk. Let our actions prove them wrong.
Narrator: Claire signed her name with a firm hand. She looked at the teacher straight in the eye, showing no fear.
Claire: I am here to study, Ma’am. But don’t expect me to be a doormat just because someone lied about me.
Narrator: The enrollment was done. She was officially a high school student. But Claire knew one thing clearly: The distance didn’t save her. The war has just begun.
Narrator: Weeks passed, and the first day of school finally arrived.
Charlotte: This is it, child. Your new beginning.
Claire: Yes, Mom. I hope I only learn lessons there... not war.
Charlotte: I trust you, my child.
Claire: Mom, I feel so nervous...
Charlotte: It’s okay, child. Let’s go find your classroom..
Charlotte: Come on, let’s go. I’ll walk with you.
Narrator: As they were heading towards Claire’s classroom, they saw Cynthia and Mary. And Mary saw them too.
Mary: Hey Charlotte, friend! Hahaha, I’m glad we bumped into each other. Hahaha. Where is Claire’s room located?
Charlotte: It’s just ahead.
Mary: Oh, I see! So she’s in the Day Department then. Meanwhile, my child even though she is actually smarter than Claire she ended up in the Night Department.
Claire: (said calmly) So what if I’m not smart? At least I made the right choices. I salute hardworking people… not people who just use others.
Mary: Ah, ah, ah! Yes, yes, of course! Hahaha. You go ahead then.
Narrator: Mary walked away looking guilty and uneasy.
Charlotte: You were great, child! Hahaha!
CHAPTER 5
Claire: Mom, Barbara chatted me again. She did even sent me a friend request.
Charlotte: What did she say?
Claire: She called me a flirt. And that’s not all. Her foreign boyfriend also messaged me. He said, “Hi, are you Barbara’s neighbor?” and I said yes.
I’m actually glad she didn’t claim me as her cousin. Because if she did, I would deny it! What she is doing is so shameful. I don’t want everyone to think we are the same just because we are related by blood.
Charlotte: And why is she messaging you all of a sudden? How did they even get your name? Don’t you think they just want to use you in their drama? They want you to be the bridge so they can get noticed.
Claire: Exactly, Mom. You’re right. Mom, if this goes too far and I can’t take it anymore… I will file a complaint against them.
Charlotte: That’sa wise move Claire. What else did the man say to you?
Claire: The guy asked, "What kind of girl is Barbara?"
Charlotte: What did you answer?
Claire: I told him, "I can't answer your question. I don't have the right to. Why don't you just ask someone else who is close to her?”
Charlotte: I want to see the conversation between the two of you.
Claire: Tomorrow, Mom. Come with me to Mrs Lola Meadows’ internet café.
Narrator: Time passed. Claire and Charlotte went to Mrs Meadows’ internet café.
Claire: Hi! Mrs Meadows, I would like to rent one of your computer units. Is that possible?
Lola: Of course! How many minutes would you like?
Charlotte: Just about two hours, Lola Meadows.
Lola: Oh, Charlotte, why are you here? Are you watching over your good daughter? You chose quite a long time! But okay, sure.
Charlotte: We just want to clarify something.
Lola: Why? What is the problem?
Charlotte: It’s Mary’s child. She is using my daughter to get everyone’s attention, so that the whole barangay will know that she has a foreigner sugar daddy and is about to become rich.
Lola: That is a huge issue. Can I take a look?
Claire: It would actually be better so you can be a witness.
Narrator: Claire showed the chat messages between the foreigner and Barbara, as well as what Barbara herself was telling poor Claire.
Lola: Oh no, dear Charlotte, this is a serious issue. You must seek legal advice about this.
Charlotte: That’s right, Mrs. Meadows. I won’t allow my child to be dragged into or used in their madness.
Lola: I hope you can talk to Mary so she can advise her daughter.
Claire: They’re both the same, Mrs. Meadows. Just earlier, Mrs. Higgins was giving such hostile looks.
Lola: Oh my, if that’s the case, I’m really worried about your situation. Aren’t you friends, Charlotte?
Charlotte: If that’s so, then it seems she’s really tolerating her daughter Barbara’s behavior.
Narrator: A week passed. Claire and Barbara crossed paths once again. When Claire visited her grandmother’s sister. Barbara approached her.
Barbara: Did you chat with my foreign boyfriend?
Claire: No, I didn’t. Ms. Higgins, can you stop bothering me? Do you think I won’t fight back? You know, if I weren’t dependent on my parents because I’m still a minor, I would have sued you a long time ago. And not only that I’d want to kill you, do you realize that? Even now, I want to slap you. Even if you’re older, you have no manners. You’re insane, foolish. I don’t want to be like you, and I despise people like you. Shame on you. Eww. If you weren’t created by God, I would have spat on your face long ago. I’m disgusted by everything you’ve done. Stay away from me before I get contaminated by you.
Narrator: Charlotte heard Claire’s voice and went to her. She asked Claire what Barbara had done to her. She was about to ask Barbara directly, but Barbara hurriedly left the house, and Charlotte couldn’t catch up with her.
Charlotte: My child, what did Barbara do to you?
Claire: She’s losing her mind again, Mom.
Charlotte: She’s going too far. I’ll go confront her.
Claire: (holding her back) Not now, Mom. There’s a proper time for that.
Charlotte: You’re right. Now isn’t the right time.
Claire: Mrs. Higgins is amazing, isn’t she? She even manages to act, hahaha. And she still pretends to be your friend.
Charlotte: I’m really impressed with Mary. She pretends, hahaha. She doesn’t even know that I’m aware of her daughter’s schemes.
Claire: It’s fine for people to get rich, Mom. No one cares about how someone manages their own life. As long as they don’t disturb others, they won’t be disturbed themselves. But if she’s just trying to impress people, then I’ll say it: anyone who admires her is just as crazy. They’re foolish, just like her.
Charlotte: Calm down, my child. Barbara isn’t worth your anger. People like her shouldn’t be given attention. Otherwise, we’ll only end up sinning against God.
Claire: You’re right, Mom.
Narrator: Meanwhile, in Barbara’s house, she was talking with her mother.
Barbara: That girl is terrified of me.
Mary: Hahaha, yes, she should be afraid of you, Barbara, because you have a foreign boyfriend. And they don’t know what you’re capable of.
Barbara: That’s true, Mom. Hahaha. Claire’s knees were trembling in fear, and she could barely respond, hahahaha.
Mary: That’s right, my child.
Barbara: Hey Mom, talk to Cynthia. Since she’s Claire’s friend, I want her to keep track of Claire. They’re always together, so that means she’ll know Claire’s every move.
Mary: That’s a good idea.
Narrator: Barbara managed to convince her mother, Mary.
Barbara: (whispering to herself) Mother needs to see that I am strong and winning. I just wonder why Claire is so brave. It feels like the child’s anger toward me runs so deep.
Mary: Why are you so quiet? What are you planning?
Barbara: Nothing, Mother.
Mary: I just can’t stop thinking about how flirtatious that girl is.
Narrator: Barbara and Cynthia’s father, Francis Higgins, also began to question Barbara’s words.
Francis: What is this, Mary, Barbara? Why is Claire always the one you talk about? Even when doing laundry, it’s Claire. At the dining table, still Claire. Why? Who is Claire to you? Do you have some ill intent?
Mary: Oh, nothing, Francis. Don’t be so negative.
Francis: Don’t cause trouble for that child. I know how kind her family is especially Charlotte. She’s my favorite cousin.
Barbara: Why is their family so close to you, Dad?
Francis: How dare you ask me that way. They are a great family well disciplined and respectable.
CHAPTER 5
Narrator: Claire was pleading with her mother to claim her report card, for students were not permitted to collect their own grades.
Claire: Mom, please… could you go to the school later after my classes? Today is Card Day.
Charlotte: Oh, so today is the day? Why didn’t you tell me sooner?
Claire: Mom, you know my grades aren’t really high… I’m sorry, Mother.
Charlotte: It is alright, my child. What matters most is that you passed.
Narrator: Upon arriving at the school grounds, they caught sight of Cynthia and Mary.
Charlotte: Look, Mary is here.
Claire: She is always the first one to arrive, isn’t she?
Charlotte: Come, let us go greet them.
Claire: Wait, why? Shouldn’t we cut ties with them now? After everything they have done, can you still bring yourself to be civil?
Charlotte: Oh, my dear child… trust me. We shall merely go with the flow. We will only strike back when they cross the line that can no longer be forgiven. Besides, how can we ever outwit them with our words if we cease to speak to them altogether?
Claire: You are truly wise, Mother.
Narrator: Before they could even take another step, Mary had already spotted them and called out.
Mary: Charlotte! Come over here!
Charlotte: Oh, hello there! What a pleasant surprise to see you!
Mary: Indeed it is. So, how are Claire’s grades?
Claire: They are just fine, Mrs. Higgins.
Mary: Oh, that is good to hear. By the way, you must come to our house later. We are having a small gathering.
Charlotte: Oh really? Is Cynthia graduating with honors?
Mary: Oh no, not really, hehehe. It is because Barbara has finally obtained her visa and is leaving to join her foreign fiancé in his country. She wishes to hold a farewell party. Look, my husband Francis is even there at home preparing the food himself.
Charlotte: Oh, how wonderful! And Francis is the one cooking? Everyone knows how skilled your husband is in the kitchen. He really is such a talented man. Alright then, we shall see you there later.
Claire: So, Barbara is finally being taken to the land where that man belongs.
Charlotte: It seems that way indeed.
Claire: Good riddance. At last, I shall no longer be dragged into her madness.
Charlotte: To be honest, I have no desire to go there party at all.
Claire: Neither do I.
Charlotte: But we cannot avoid meeting your Uncle Francis. I know his character all too well. He is, after all, one of my closest cousins.
Narrator: Meanwhile, at Barbara’s house…
Mary: Barbara, we happened to run into the two of them at school just now.
Barbara: That is good news. Did you invite them to the party later?
Mary: Of course I did! Hahaha, knowing me, of course I would. Let us just see if she will not be green with envy over my precious daughter’s success.
Francis: What is this I am hearing? Are you holding a party merely to make others jealous?
Mary: Oh, it is nothing, Francis.
Barbara: Chill, Dad. That is just how people react, isn’t it? It is only natural.
Francis: Hah? Jealous of you? I think they are more likely disgusted. If that is truly your intention, then I declare there will be no party at all!
Barbara: I was just joking, Dad!
Mary: Yes, she was only joking!
Francis: I hope you are telling the truth. And besides… why is Claire’s name being brought up again?
CHAPTER 6
Narrator: Several months passed. Barbara wasted no time and went abroad to chase after her foreign boyfriend. Fear gnawed at her fear that another woman might steal him away. She knew all too well that many women in her town dreamed of marrying a wealthy man. Even those already tied to boyfriends or husbands would shamelessly snatch someone else’s partner just as Barbara herself had once done. But now, she dreaded that the same betrayal might befall her. She remembered the man she once stole, only to discover he was poor. Regret consumed her, and she abandoned him. But this new man this one was rich. And Barbara clung to him with desperate greed.
Barbara: Mother, it looks like someone is waiting for him. I must go to him right away before anyone else dares to get ahead of me.
Mary: You’re right! You know how it is. It’s good that you chose him.
Barbara: Yes
CHARACTERS
Here are the main characters in the story:
Main Characters
- Claire Davis – The protagonist. She is kind, brave, principled, and values hard work and integrity. She strongly opposes Barbara’s ways and defends herself against accusations and bullying.
- Barbara Higgins – The antagonist. Cynthia’s older sister. She is manipulative, plans to marry a foreigner just for money, and falsely accuses Claire of trying to steal her boyfriend.
- Charlotte Davis – Claire’s mother. She is very supportive, protective, and stands by her daughter through all the troubles.
- Jerry Davis – Claire’s father. He believes in Claire’s bravery and character.
- Cynthia Higgins – Claire’s friend and Barbara’s younger sister. She initially supports her sister’s plans and is used by her family to spy on Claire.
- Jennifer Miller & Gracia Garcia – Claire’s other close friends. They stay loyal to her and share the same views about Barbara.
Supporting Characters
- Mary Higgins – Barbara and Cynthia’s mother. She encourages her daughter’s gold-digging behavior and treats Claire unfairly despite being family friends with Charlotte.
- The Foreign Boyfriend – Barbara’s partner whom she intends to marry for a better life.
- Teachers (Ms. Harper, Ms. White, Mr. Clarkson) – Some teachers unfairly judge and spread lies about Claire, while Mr. Clarkson is one of the few who defends her and knows the truth.
- Mrs. Lola Meadows – Owner of the internet café who acts as a witness to the messages and supports Claire.
- Aaliyah & Allysa – Neighbors/relatives who mock Claire and spread gossip.
-Francis Higgins - Barbara and Cynthia's father and a husband of Mary Higgins
Family Members
- Jerry Davis – Claire's father. He is supportive and proud of his daughter's bravery.
- Grandpa & Grandma – Claire's grandparents who live in the city.
OTHER CAST
- Mr. Clarkson – The male teacher who defended Claire. He believed she was innocent and scolded other teachers for judging her unfairly.
- Barbara's Foreign Boyfriend – The man Barbara plans to marry for money. He messaged Claire online, asking about Barbara's character.
The Students
- Calvin – Jennifer's crush. Claire and Cynthia initially teased her about him, saying he wasn't handsome, but Jennifer liked him because she saw his kindness. Eventually, they became friends and seatmates in Grade 6.
- Jeffrey – The boy whom Claire and Cynthia considered the "most handsome" in class. They were surprised Jennifer didn't like him instead of Calvin.
Family Members
- Jerry Davis – Claire's father. He is supportive and proud of his daughter's bravery.
- Grandpa & Grandma – Claire's grandparents who live in the city.
Other Characters
Mr. Clarkson The male teacher who defended Claire. He believed she was innocent and scolded other teachers for judging her unfairly.
Barbara's Foreign Boyfriend – The man Barbara plans to marry for money. He messaged Claire online, asking about Barbara's character.
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