Got left behind by the people I was supposed to make memories with
I was supposed to go to a music festival with my friends, but I ended up going through it alone.
We planned this trip a month in advance. Since we’re all working, we agreed to arrive on different dates. Some came five days early, others two days before, and a few of us, including me arrived on the day of the festival. I was supposed to travel with some friends, but we booked different times. They took an earlier trip, while I took the last one because I had errands to finish.
One friend handled all the bookings, so all I had to do was pay, which I did. But she forgot to tell me the name or location of our accommodation. I also planned to rent a scooter like everyone else, but everything was fully booked. I messaged our group chat asking if anyone knew where I could rent one, and a friend told me not to worry because she’d pick me up at the port.
I kept updating them throughout my trip. When I arrived, I messaged and sent a photo of where I was. Ten minutes passed; no reply. Then an hour. Then two. I kept calling, but no one answered. I understand the signal on the island can be bad, but she had been replying before I arrived. And the worst part was, I didn’t even know where we were staying.
It was almost midnight, and there was no transportation around. So I booked a different place and started walking, hoping to find help. Luckily, I came across someone who rented motorcycles. He offered me one slightly damaged, but usable and even guided me to my accommodation through a back road since the main road was blocked for the festival.
I arrived safely. The owner of the place noticed I was alone and invited me to join them at the festival. I went with them, had a few drinks, and tried to enjoy the night. I was happy in that moment, but deep down, I still felt sad.
Before going to sleep, I saw missed calls and messages from my friends. I told them I was okay. The next morning, they asked me to explore the island with them, but I declined and booked a trip home instead.
This experience has been weighing on me. I feel hurt, and I don’t have the courage to talk to them. Part of me wants to cut them off, but I don’t think I have the heart to do it.