TOMBOY. That's the title I've been wearing lately. Even though I'm rough and dressed like a boy, I still have the instincts of a girl. My soul remains soft and sensitive, like a normal girls. When I sad, I will cry.

The difference is that I don't display my sadness for others to see. I prefer to be alone. Let no one witness my weakness.

I was not like this before. I was a normal girl and dress like other girls too. I started to change since I lost my parent, who is gone forever because of a tragic accident. At that time, mom and dad had just returned from work. They were hit by a lorry until they got stuck under that vehicle. Since that accident, the sad episode of my life as the eldest child began.

I live in a poor state. When both my parents were still alive, our family was always pressed by poverty. Even though we living that life, but we through the days that rotate alternately, full of happiness and colors adorning that poor life.

I'm very grateful for the noble-hearted person Mr. Smith, who generously gave us a plot of land for us to take shelter and continue this life. Now, Mr. Smith is gone. We continue to live on this land as long as no one drives us away.

I just turned 17 years old. It seems that this year I will not be able to sit for the exam. Because I already quit school last year, that is since my parents leave forever. The results of my exam when I was 10th grade is pretty good too. With that approval, I qualified to get a job to support my two other siblings. Only now do I know how painful it is to be the head of a family. How difficult it is to bear the responsibility of a father. We should respect our parents. To carry this responsibility is not a few people who can do it. And I have been chosen to live life this way. I have been chosen to take on this great responsibility. Now I hide my appearance with the way I wear it and my attitude is rather rude. Deliberately making it really rude.

Since my parents leave forever, my siblings and I were often bullied by the village kids. I was almost raped. They are really bad! Likes to take advantage of weak people like me. A race that should be protected and loved. Don't they feel sorry for us who have become orphans? At that moment I was determined to change.

With the savings, I started buying men's clothes. I want to change my appearance. But not changing my gender and instincts. That is impossible for me to do. I'm still a normal woman, with a heart and feelings. I just don't want to be bullied anymore, that's all. I also don't want my sisters to be victims of their barbarism. I must be strong, I must persevere. I have to be like a man because I am the backup for my siblings.

On my shoulders is a great responsibility, which my father and mother inherited. What can't be done, I have to carry it no matter how heavy it is. Like carrying a block, loaded with hardship and sadness.

"Siso, what are you thinking about? Let's eat."

Christy, my younger sister has already served breakfast. This morning the menu is only bread and coffee. Simple and filling. Christy is really good at cooking.

So, we both decided that only she would do the chores like cooking, while I went out to work. The food was delicious. Me and my little brother never complained.

When my late mom was still alive, Christy was diligent in the kitchen to help her. Christy was still in the third grade and Caden, my little brother, is now in the sixth grade. She attend school in the afternoon session. So, before going to school Christy has already prepared the lunch. While Caden, he will help do some chores sometimes.

"Christy did you give the money for school expenses to Caden this morning?" I asked, wanting to be sure. I have given the money for the school expenses for Caden to Christy.

" Yeah. But today I gave a little more, because He said there is an extra class."

"An extra class? Until what time?"

" He told me it's until 4 pm "

" Owh ok, make sure you both take care of the house and don't go anywhere."

I glanced at the watch on my wrist. I bought this watch last year. It's still beautiful and works well. I don't care about the brand. As long as I can used is enough. The clock is showing 8 a.m in the morning. I have to hurry.

" Christy take care of yourself and Caden. I need to go." I left the message and Christy just nodded.

I ride a mountain bike that my late father bought. It's my favourite bike. A gift from my father in conjunction with my excellent results in the last exam I had. I used this bike wherever I go. It's also a long way for me to cycle to work.

I work as an office girl or rather an office boy at a lawyer's office in the city. That's the only thing that is capable and in accordance with the existing approval. The salary is not much. And it's not enough to support our siblings life. That's why I do part-time job at night in a restaurant. It's enough for me to support our life. I may not be able to give them luxury stuff. As long as they can all continue their education, that's good enough for me. Their success is what I look forward to the most.

When arrived home at 6 in the afternoon, I was surprised by the presence of a Toyota Camry car. I don't know which type. From the belly of the car came out a man and a woman in their late thirties. The man gave a sweet smile and the woman just remained silent without any reaction. I politely smile back at them.

" Hello. "

" Yeah? who are you looking for? "

" Are you Mr. Everly's daughter? "

" Yes, but...father is gone. "

" Yeah, I know that. Actually I have something to say. "

" Oh, then if you don't mind, we can talk about it inside. "

" Hurm... no thanks, let's just talk about it here. "

Suddenly the woman spoke with a face that I understood very well. She feel uncomfortable to come in to my small house. Got euwww feeling maybe. But I don't care about it.

" It's okay then, what's the matter? "

" Actually, hurm...what's your name?" asked the man who looked confused. Like something is wrong. My heart began to wonder.

" I'm Charlotte, you can call me Charlee. "

I extended my hand to greet them. The man greeted me well but the woman only greeted me with the tip of her finger. Aishhh... what an arrogant woman. My hands are clean!

" My name is Scott, this is my wife, Katie. "

I nodded in understanding while smiling sweetly. I think this is the sweetest smile I've ever given.

" Okay, lemme explain, I am the son of the late Mr. Smith. So, I came here to let you know that the land you're sitting on now belongs to me. "

I was stunned. I was shocked after he finished his sentences. Does he want this land back???

What will happen to me and my siblings? Where do we will live later???

" Frankly speaking, we want to sell this land. The buyer is already there. So, Charlee or whatever you can get out of our land! "

His wife Katie, carelessly and arrogantly telling us to get out of the land. She said something without even think about the impact we will face soon.

" But Sir... Miss, we don't have any place to stay. Where are we going after this? Don't you feel sorry for us? We are orphans. " I try to asking for their sympathy but...

" That's not my problem. All I know is that you all have to move out. "

Arrogant! My patience is getting reach out of limit. For so many times we were bullied.

" But, please Sir... don't do this to us. " I tried again to gain their sympathy.

" Fine... Charlee, we give you all a month. "

Mr. Scott spoke calmly. I see his face is cloudy. Feeling sympathy maybe. But not for that woman, what's even more irritating is. I should just slap her in the face a hundred times, let her feel it. I flashed a smile.

" Hurm... in that case, we'll go first. "

I just stared blankly at the back of the car leaving the yard. I slowly sighed. Where should I seek refuge? If we were all men, there would be no problem, but there were only me, Christy and Caden was still young. Is it right for them to act like that? Is there not a hint of sympathy in their hearts? But if I think about it, that is their right. This land belongs to them. A period of one month has been given. Maybe they are not as noble as Mr. Smith, but at least they are not too cruel.

I'm sitting on the stairs. What's on the earth is happening to us?? Why am I supposed to face all this problem? The sad episode I went through never subsided. The sad story in my life is like a rhythm and a song. Cannot be separated .

" Siso? Why are you sitting here? " All of my thought stopped here. Christy smile at me. She just come back from school. She look tired. Should I tell her about what was happening just now? About that news? But if I keep it from them, they will know about it soon.

" Mr. Smith's son came earlier. "

" Who?."

" His name is Scott. He came with his wife. "

" What does he want? " Christy also sit next to me. She's kinda mature than her age. She's the cute and caring sister I ever had. She's always there whenever she think that I have a problem.

" He is the one who wants this land back. "

" Huh? " I nodded weakly. My spirit flew away when I heard this news earlier.

" Then, what about us? Where do we find a place live? "

" I don't know. I'm also dizzy... "

" He's a bad person, Siso. "

" It's not his fault. It's our fault because we don't have property. This is how people ride, Christy. Enough time will be driven away. "

" Bad! "

" It's not good to say that, Christy. This land belongs to them.They can do whatever they like. We are the ones who should be aware of ourselves. He gave us a month is good enough, "

" Just a month? "

I nodded slowly.

" Where are we going to find a house in this month? Do you want to rent a terraced house? Can you? We don't even have enough money deposit yet. "

I sighed. Christy's words were exactly right. I don't need to deny it anymore. A terraced house is definitely there if you look for it. The question is, can you afford it or not?

She sighed.

" Why are we being given this test, Siso? After one, another problem came. "

" Aishhh... what are talking about??. It's not good to say that. Be kind to God. Everything that happens today has a meaning. We just don't see it and don't know when. "

" Oops... sorry Siso. "

I smiled at her. Her sweet face was filled with regret.

" Okay, enough... don't bother yourself to thinking about this. Just focus on your studies. Let me take care of it. Okay good girl? "

She nodded weakly. I looked at her sympathetically. That's why I don't like to talk about any problem that comes up. It will definitely disturb my younger siblings' minds. Worried that their concentration on studies will be disturbed. But I have no choice. This news really cannot be kept. I really hope that a miracle will happen. Is it possible?

I'm riding my cute bicycle while singing. Although my voice is not that good, but that is just to get rid of my fear for riding a bike at night like this.

Aunt Jane, the owner of the restaurant where I work is really kind. At 10 o'clock at night she told me to go home. She said it's dangerous for me to returning home alone in the dark. She said even though I'm a tomboy, my energy are still those of a woman. Not strong enough to fight the energy of a man. She said again, even though I'm a tomboy, if I'm raped I can still get pregnant. When I think about it, everything she said is true. I feel scared too. Suddenly...

Ponnn !!!

The sound of the car horn startled me so much that I lost my balance, then fell on the grass at the edge of the bend. Thankfully I fell on the grass, otherwise I will definitely get hurt.

" Heyyy!! Are you crazy? You want to die??? "

A man stuck his head out of the car window. I can clearly see his face. I looked up. No wonder I can see his face clearly. It cuz I really fell under the street lamp.

I turned back to the man.

" You're the crazy one! Drive a car like a speeder! "

" What did you said? " That man got out of his car. His fists were also clenched. His hands continued to grip my shirt.

" I said you're the one who crazy! Drive a car like a speeder. Deaf! "

I repeated what I've said loudly. At the same time he unleashed a solid punch right on my cheek. Aucchh! It hurts! Blood spurts out. My inner cheek is injured. This man must be crazy. Can't he see the difference between my body and his? My height is only as high as his chin.

" Ha ha ha...you deserved it lil boy! What do you feel? Good? "

" Your stupid jerk! Ofc it's hurts stupid guy! "

" What are you saying? Do you want me to hit you again? What a rude lil boy! "

" You are the rude one! You hit me then you also beat me! Then, you didn't even intend to ask apologize. "

I wiped the blood that was flowing on my lips. This wound is also bad. I feel like my head tilt by itself.

" Whose fault? You're the one who ride your bicycle without look at your left and right? Riding bicycle just like this is your dad's road. "

" Even if I'm the one who's wrong, can't you say something nice? You're rude! "

" Heyyy... lil boy, I'll beat you again if you being rude again. Your mouth is really dirty. "

" I'm being rude to people who rude to me, stupid! "

Bukkk !!!

Another solid punch hit my stomach. I sat down. It hurts! Aunt Jane is right, my strength still cannot fight a man's energy.

I looked up. Trying to find the strength to get up, but I fell down again. I feel like crying. No! I can't cry in front of this arrogant man.

" Next time, if you know you're weak, don't be rude! "

" Yahhhhhh, stupid jerk! What's wrong with you? Are you looking for a fight? "

" Heyy, Shorty! Even if I wanna fight, I won't choose you cus I'm not interest to fight with a weak lil boy. Shorty! "

He's being too much. I started to feel challenged. I woke up even though the pain was still there, I was brave. For the sake of not being bullied again.

" You're drunk, aren't you? You know alcohol is illegal, right? You've never heard the slogan, don't drink and drive? Right? You're drunk, you're causing trouble for people! "

Pangg!!!

I got another slap on my cheek. I fell down. The cap I was wearing was thrown so that the long hair that I had in a bun unraveled. The man's eyes widened. He was stunned.

" You...you're a girl? "

What a stupid jerk! Did he just realize that I'm not his opponent? Really rude! I just glared at him angrily. The blood that melted on the lips, I was abusive. It hurts so much. Be patient, be patient Charlee.. fuhhh.. you can't cry. I don't want to drown in emotions.

" Get out of my way!!! "

I pushed him to take my bike that was already lying on the grass. I pushed the bike and stopped to collect my cap which was thrown away from the scene. I turned to see that super arrogant man.

He was still staring at me. His face is a little upset and look guilty. Maybe he just realized that the one he beat earlier was an underage girl. I left the man who was shaking in the darkness of the night. My lip was broken and hurt cus of that rude man. Just wait, I'll make you pay for everything you've done to me. Me, Charlotte, I swear to make him pay everything and the war with that unknown stupid jerk began.

" Siso! What happened? " Christy reacted anxiously when she opened the door for me.

" Shuu! Try to slow down your voice a bit. You will make Caden awake, you know? "

She ignored my words, she went to get a towel and hot water. I sat leaning on a rattan chair. Aucchh... it's hurt too much. I wish I won't never meet that jerk again.

" Siso, you fighting again, right? What is the reason this time? "

Christy does have a motherly nature. Although she is still young, she seems mature. She is a patient person, unlike me who is hot-tempered. She wiped the remaining blood on my lips.

" Auchh! It hurts! Slow down a bit! " I growled. My heart is burning actually because I was beaten even I clearly unable to fight back. My heart hurts when I remember the sharp words that came from the man's mouth. But then, Christy became the victim where I let out everything I feel.

" I'm sorry Siso, I didn't mean to. "

" Hmmm..."

I was silent. Trying to control my emotions. I I feel like my body is shivering just because I'm trying to hold back my anger and pain.

" Why aren't you sleeping yet? "

" I was studying. After all, if I sleep, how you will come in later? "

I was silent again. I close my eyes, trying to be calm and forget about what was happening.

"Siso..."

She handed me a piece of paper. I frowned at her face.

" Caden gave me this, he want to ask for permission to go on a group trip while studying. "

"A group trip? "

I read the details written on the piece of paper. It's a study group trip.

50$??? It's expensive. Where do I want to spend that much money? The money in my hand is only one hundred and a half. That's enough to save until the end of this month. I squeezed my forehead. I feel sorry for Caden.

" I've told him not to go. I said we don't have money. "

" Then, what did he said? "

" He's upset. What else? He still kids Siso. He won't understand much. "

I'm sighing heavily. Inexhaustible with problem. It is also difficult to be the head of the family apparently. I read the letter again. The closing date until the end of this month. I still have time to find money.

" It's okay, I'll try to find money till then. "

Christy just smiled then she headed to the kitchen. I watched my lil brother who were sound asleep in a dream. He were sleeping sprawled on thin mattresses. There was only one room. That's the small room where we change clothes and keep all the pillows and rotten mattresses. If we want to sleep, just spread out the mattress in the living room.

I just close my eyes but I can't. My mouth is throbbing. I'm trying to survive. My tears slowly dripping. The pain is unbelievable. Beaten by a man who is really not a gentleman but a rude guy. Just imagine, his big fists and the fast swing of his hands crushing my cheeks and my stomach. I can still imagine his indigestion until now. It's like the insides didn't come out at all. And even more unfortunate, that man's rough hand slapped my face so hard till I fell down.

Crazy! That guy seriously crazy. He's mafia I guess.

But is it really my fault? Am I that rude?Aren't I trying to defend myself from being built up and bullied? Ah, I deserved it indeed! I already know that man is not in the good mood, why I added it up?

But I'm also not in a good mood, how it can be my fault alone? It can't be! He is indeed a man who does not know manners. He don't know how to respect people. Aren't men supposed to be gentle with women? The woman was not created from a sole to be stepped on, not from a head to be flattered but from the left side, close to the hand to be protected and close to the heart to be loved.

But, maybe it's not his fault, right? The man does not know who I really am. Huh, I won't forgive what that man did to me! If I see him again, I surely will make him pay for everything he did.

But who is that man? I've never seen his face before?