Emil Jaurige, a 15-year-old half-Filipino half-American, came waddling along his usual route back home. He came home from Karate practice and with the regionals coming up, he needs to practice more. His peers are already overpassing him in terms of skill and physique. Even the girls! Wouldn’t you believe it? Then there’s also this pressure coming from Mr. Reagan, his instructor. Emil knows he means well but that doesn’t erase the racist undertones from what he said. He said since he’s the only Asian on the team, there are more expectations on his shoulder to be the best among them. But Emil just can’t do it no matter how hard he tries.
Tired, bruised, beaten, he walked back his usual route and dreaded tomorrow’s practice while carrying the burden of today’s damage. On his walk, he noticed something strange. The route he’s walking is an unbeaten path. Nobody knows about this shortcut except for a few of his neighbors who know the lay of the land. And yet, there is this vending machine beckoning him to come closer. If someone’s going to place a vending machine, wouldn’t it be profitable if they place it where there are many people? Maybe by Narra Drive which is just a block away. Nonetheless, Emil grabbed a few quarters since he’s hungry for a snack. His mother might lash out at him for eating junk food before dinner but he can’t help it. That chocolate bar is begging to jump in his mouth right now.
Although, it’s strange. The brand of the bar isn’t anything he recognizes. And the name still sounds strange. Wish Chocolate Bar? Emil has seen his fair share of stupid names for candies but Wish Chocolate Bar is pushing it. It’s so basic that he can’t help but laugh while munching on it. The taste isn’t anything special, just your ol’ regular caramel, nuts, marshmallows, and chocolate.
While eating at the bar, Emil sat on a nearby bench to take a breather. He looked at the stars and admired how bright they look tonight. He closed his eyes and let the air take away his frustration. With a breath from his mouth, he muttered a wish. Strange as it seems, he felt like whatever words come out of his mouth, he’s got this nagging feeling that it would come true. What wish did he make?