Translated from Filipino to English - www.onlinedoctranslator.

com

“Your original dream,” I said softly and he nodded. “But… How about
your music?”

“I don’t have to act with my music. I can be who I want to be. I can be
myself… That’s what’s important,” he said seriously. “I’m tired of acting on
camera. I want to be genuine now… using my music.”

Our food arrived after that and we just carried it along as we

walked. The sun was setting when we reached the Sunken Garden.
I sat down again under the tree and put aside the fishball I was
eating to get my guitar from its case. He just watched me, wanting
to ask questions but unable to.

I put the guitar on my leg while I tuned it. He chewed slowly,

still confused by my actions.

I strum the guitar. It was the first time I didn't feel heavy. I actually…
liked it. I liked hearing the strum of the guitar. I like... music.

“Golden scenery… under the sky, you are with me,” I sang. He almost
spit out what he was eating. “With the wind blowing, along with the
song, I can feel your palm… I hope you will hear my prayer, my wish
that you love me too… Orange sky, seen drawing… in the beauty of
your eyes…”

I looked at him while I was strumming the guitar. His lips were parted,
still shocked and I sang his song. Again… Red, orange, and yellow. The
colors of the sunset were reflecting on his face. This is what he saw in
me.

I continued singing and strumming slowly until I reached my

favorite part of the song. “My mind is asking… do you want to kiss
me too?” I looked at him again. “Is this all there is… our friendship?”

“Via…” He covered his mouth and looked away, his cheeks

turning red. I laughed as I played.
I stopped and put the guitar down to the side after the song. We
both fell silent, not knowing what to say. I just watched the sun set
while hugging my knee.

“Who,” I called.

“H-huh?” We looked at each other at the same time. I didn't notice that he was so
close to me that I was surprised again and moved away. “Why?”

I didn't say anything so he came closer and held my chin so I could look
at him again. He stared at my eyes for so long, trying to read my mind.
He smiled briefly when he saw that I was lost.

"Still the same, Via," he said softly before coming closer.

I closed my eyes when I felt his lips on mine. It was soft and short…
but it had too many emotions. When he let go of me, our faces were
still close.

“What?” he asked softly. “Say it, Rye…”

I stared into his eyes for a long time, trying to find comfort to say what
was on my mind. “I want to write music,” I whispered.

___________________________________________________ ___________________

:)

46 [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

Warning: R-18. Read at your own risk.

“Okay, Via! Just this once! Are you and Arkin on a date? Just bring
Avi along!”

I stared at Yanna who was in front of me now, across from my house. In one of
her hands she was holding Avrielle who was smiling at me, with a bag on her
back. I couldn't stand the child because she was close to my heart.
so I nodded and held his hand to bring him closer to me. Arkin
and I will meet again today.

He probably hasn't seen Avrielle in a while so it's okay for me to take

the kid on our "date" or whatever it's called. We just had plans to go
to the music studio that he always goes to.

“I'm leaving! We still have a flight! Thank you!” Yanna hurriedly left
and got into her car.

“Aunt Via!” Avrielle immediately hugged my waist. “Are we going to the

amusement park today?! Mommy said you will take me there!”

My lips parted in shock. What else was Ashianna talking about?! I

didn't know she was going to leave Avrielle with me now!

“Via!” I was just about to enter the house when I turned to see Arkin
calling me from inside the car. I should have been leaving if Yanna
hadn't knocked on the door. “Hello, Avi?!” she asked in surprise and
quickly got out of the car.

“Uncle!” Avrielle called and ran over. Arkin knelt down and hugged the
boy as if they hadn't seen each other in a long time. It was good that he
still knew him. Well… no one could forget Arkin because no matter
where you looked, he was there.

“Avi is with us now,” I told him as we walked to the car. He didn’t

seem to complain because he even picked up the child and put him in
the back, then fastened the seatbelt.

It's a good thing we have a child with us because... it's strange. The
last time we saw each other, he kissed me at the Sunken Garden!
Now, I don't know how to act in front of him!

When he got into the driver's seat, I think he only realized how
awkward we were. We never talked about what happened after that
because neither of us had the courage. It was so awkward!
“Tito, amusement park!” Avrielle said from behind.

“H-huh?!” Arkin was also surprised and looked at me for a moment

because he knew we weren't going there. “You want to go there?” he
asked the boy again.

“Yes! Mommy said you will bring me there!” Avrielle was overjoyed.

“Let it go… He won’t like the music studio,” I just told Arkin. The kid
will just feel bored when we take him there. Maybe he’ll even like it. It
seems like he’s still hoping we’ll actually go to the amusement park. I
don’t want the kid to be disappointed.

Arkin took us to a nearby amusement park that seemed to be hidden.

There weren't many people there and it was small, but it looked nice and
the kid would enjoy it. Arkin didn't take off his cap and facemask from the
moment we got out of the car.

“Avrielle!” I ran immediately because Avi suddenly ran after we

entered the park. He immediately pointed to the ride he wanted to
ride so I grabbed his wrist so we could wait for Arkin.

“It looks fun, Tita!” He was already pulling me because he wanted to get in
line but Arkin was walking so slowly. I was stunned when I noticed that he
was no longer walking. He was just… really distancing himself from us. He
had his pockets in his pants while looking at us. He motioned for us to get
in line.

He was being careful this time. I wanted to invite him to come along
but he seemed determined to keep himself away. The line wasn't
that long because there weren't many people so we got back
quickly. We only rode the small Anchor's Away so it didn't affect me.
I'm not afraid of rides and I always had to accompany my siblings
back then.

“Auntie, why is Tito not going with us?” Avrielle asked in surprise
because as we walked away, Arkin was just following at a distance.
“Tito is hiding from people,” I told him.

“But why? He is seen everywhere…” Avi scratched his head and turned
around again. “He looks lonely! He looks so alone!”

“Avi-” I was stunned when he let go of me and ran towards Arkin. I

didn't know what to do and just stood there at a distance.

Avrielle grabbed Arkin's hand and pulled him towards me so we

could walk together. I quickly looked away and stepped away, but
Avrielle suddenly grabbed one of my hands so I couldn't leave.

"Are you guys fighting?" he asked me innocently. "Please don't fight.

Fighting is bad... This is how Mom and Dad also fight! They don't go near
each other!"

“Avi, that's different…” Arkin didn't know how to explain it to the boy. “We
are not fighting. It's just that… it's dangerous to be seen outside.”

“Tito Arkin, I can barely see your face!” Avrielle pouted and let go of us
to cross her arms over her chest. “Please make up now…”

“W-there aren't many people…” I just said and looked around. I knew
Avrielle wouldn't stop no matter what we explained because she
wouldn't understand it. She's still young.

“Avi, like Tita Sam…” Arkin tried to explain, but the boy was
distracted by the cotton candy cart that passed by, so he ran
over to it. Arkin sighed and followed.

“Let it go…” I said to him as we walked. When our hands touched, we

immediately moved away from each other and looked away, feeling
lost. “Uh…” we said at the same time. We felt like fools!
He just bought Avrielle some cotton candy and she went on the
next ride that Avi wanted to go on. I just waited outside, wondering
how I was going to survive this day! Arkin and I were still so
awkward!

When they got out, I handed Arkin some water. I saw a smile in
his eyes but he couldn't take off his face mask so he just gave it to
Avrielle. I was worried because... wasn't he getting hot? It was so
hot.

We even played with the guns. In high school, Arkin wasn't good at it
so I didn't expect him to win the doll Avrielle wanted. The kid was
frowning because he couldn't get it.

“The problem is the gun, I promise,” he added.

“It's me.” I weakly pushed him aside and took the gun after paying. I
closed one eye and shot the three cartons standing there. They all
fell down, which made Avrielle scream with joy.

"Why are you such a good shooter? What did you do in Spain?
You're scary, Via, huh..." Arkin hugged himself, accusing me of
doing something illegal in Spain!

I just smiled at him and took the prize to give to Avrielle. After that,
we just rested on the bench while Avi played with bubbles because
Arkin bought him that bubble gun.

“Tito Arkin, do you like my Tita?” Avi suddenly asked, which surprised me. I
wanted to cover his mouth but I couldn't move. Where did that come from?
Did Yanna teach that to the kid, huh?!

"I love your Aunt," Arkin replied. "But she doesn't know if she loves
me or not..."
"I'm sure she does! Mommy loves Daddy! She looks at you like how
Mommy looks at Daddy!" still babbling as a child.

I actually pulled her over and covered her mouth because I was afraid she would say
something else. She just giggled before walking away to play with bubbles again.
Arkin and I were left behind! It was strange!

“They really are kids…” I faked a cough as I looked away. “What are
you talking about…”

“Ah, yes…” He laughed but it was obviously fake too. Then silence
enveloped us again. I placed both my palms on my knees while
looking in the other direction. What was I going to say? “Uh… Via…
About last time…”

“W-what last time?!” I immediately panicked and turned to him. I

felt my cheeks turn red because I remembered the kiss.

“Uh… When you said you wanted to write music.” That’s what he was
referring to! I immediately looked away and cursed myself inside
because someone else had entered my mind! What a shame, Via!

"Why? W-what's wrong?"

I also don't know what came over me and I said that. It just felt… right.
When I decided to live in the present, suddenly, looking at and holding the
guitar did not feel as heavy as it was before. My heart actually felt light.

I could sing with my eyes closed and without my heart beating crazy because I
was nervous. My heart was beating because I was singing to him. He was... and
had always been my first audience. My first supporter. It felt right saying those
words to him.

I know what I want, but I try to get rid of things that remind me of
Mama… and all the pain I experienced with her… as well as Arkin. I
really hated my voice… I
hated my talent. I tried to forget music for a long time but Arkin made
me remember it again.

Arkin said, he fell in love with music because of me… but I also
learned to love music because of him. I can't say I love it as much as
he does… but I know I feel lighthearted about what I do.

For a few years, architecture always felt heavy to me. I was doing it
just because I didn't want to waste my time studying it. I studied it for
so many years it would be a shame if I couldn't use it. I was always
mediocre in everything I did… because I couldn't embrace my talent.

When I picked up the guitar again and played it next to him, it felt like
all the pain I was feeling was gone. I thought… I can do it. Maybe I can
do it… I'm ready to admit to myself that I like what I do.

“I'm still scared…” I said softly while watching Avrielle.

“Where?” Arkin asked me.

“That maybe when I start writing songs… I'll realize I don't like it. I'm
afraid I might not like what I've written… my music. If that's the case,
where will I go from here? Where will my decisions take me? What if…
I try and realize that even there, I'm not good at it?” I said everything
that was running through my mind.

“Via…” I almost jumped out of my seat when he grabbed my hand.

“Do you think I liked the first song I wrote? Yes, I think it was good
and I liked it… but I know that’s not all I can do. Everyone starts with
something… and just because you don’t like the first one doesn’t
mean you won’t like the next ones. We strive to be better each day…
each moment, each writing, each song.”

“Do you think you're great at music now?” I asked him.

“I think I am because I believe in myself… but I know that it's not my
greatest. There is no greatest. I know there's more I can do. I don't limit
myself in my comfort zone… because I won't grow that way. Don't worry
because I'm here… and I will guide you just like you did for me before. I
told you… You made me want to learn music and embrace it…”

“I couldn't tell you last time… but… thank you.” I squeezed his hand a
little and smiled at him. He held my cheek and pressed his forehead
against mine.

"I would kiss you but I don't want to take my mask off," he whispered.

I immediately felt the heat on my cheeks because of what he said so I

immediately moved away! Avrielle also came over to sit between us! I
fell silent again as I turned in another direction while Arkin laughed
with Avi as if he had done nothing.

“Tito Arkin, will you marry Tita Via soon? Like my Mom and Dad?” Avi asked
again. Why has this kid been bringing us closer all this time! What is Yanna
teaching us here!

“Uh…” Arkin didn’t know how to answer. “You should ask her,
Avrielle…”

“Aunt Via-”

“It's getting dark! I think we need to go, Avi,” I told him. “Maybe your
Mommy and Daddy will be coming home from their flight!” It was only
a domestic flight so they would be back quickly.

Luckily, he looked tired so he didn't complain. I was right because

the child fell asleep right away in the back of the car when we
were returning.

“I don't think I've ever asked, but… Do you have any plans to have a
child, Via?” Arkin suddenly asked me because he saw Avrielle sleeping.
“Nothing…” I replied while looking out the window. He just nodded
and didn't say anything. “Aren't you going to ask why?”

“It's your choice, Via… I shouldn't question your decision for your
body or for yourself,” he said seriously.

“Hmm… Yes but… I don’t have any plans because I feel like I won’t
be a good mother.” I sighed and leaned the side of my head against
the window. “I’m afraid I might… end up like Mama especially since I
want to get into music.”

“Via… You said you can’t live in the past. You’re going to live in the
present… But you’re also limiting yourself with the future you’re
creating inside your head. Make decisions for yourself… not because
you fear it, but because you really want it. I don’t care what you
want… but I understand… and I will be with you until you face
everything you fear. We agreed to work on it together, right?” his
voice was low because Avrielle might hear.

“Kino… You have really grown so much.” I laughed for a moment. I

didn't expect to hear those things from him… from someone who
couldn't make decisions for himself before. “I admire you.”

And I was jealous because he was able to keep up with the times. Time was
moving for him… and he was great at riding it. On the other hand, I was stuck
in the past for so long. I thought then, Kino would have a harder time when
we were apart… but I was still the one who couldn't get out.

But I am different and he is different. We had different paces. There is no fast

and no slow because I act according to my capacity… according to what I can.
I am happy for him. I just realized how much he has changed. He is no longer
the childish person who used to depend on me. He became a better version
of himself.

"I'm so proud of you," I whispered while closing my eyes.

I knew he heard it but he didn't say anything. I just heard him let out
a heavy breath as he drove.

“Thank you,” he replied after a few seconds. I just smiled to myself.

“That means a lot.”

We took Avrielle to Yanna's house. Luckily, the couple was already there and it
looked like they had just gotten home because they were still in uniform. Avi was
still sleepy when we went inside.

"Do you guys want to eat dinner? I will cook," Hiro said to us at the
door.

“Ah, no more… I have… I have a shoot. I'm being called,” Arkin said, busy
on the phone. That was the call he had answered earlier.

"Are you sure?" Hiro asked worriedly.

“Hey, Arkin, is that bed scene you and Clea had for real? The one we
watched!” Yanna suddenly asked! It was really out of the blue! You
could have asked that after the movie we watched!

“Ah, no…” Arkin scratched his head. “And they didn’t show it…”

“You're really good at that, ah! Hey, Via! Don't let yourself be
defeated!” Yanna pinched my waist. “You're good at it too!”

“H-huh?!” My eyes widened and my heart beat faster because of

what he said. I thought about that bed scene again! I felt heavy
again! How annoying, oh!

Yanna briefly took something out of Hiro's pocket before pulling me aside and
putting what was in her hand in the pocket of the jacket I was wearing. I was
about to take it out to see what it was, but she stopped my hand.

“Via… Get moving… You’re so slow, honey,” Yanna said to me boredly. “How
old are you, huh? You’re not in college anymore. Enough is enough.
"Let's make it happen! Go now!"

"Yanna, what are you saying?" My forehead furrowed.

“Sex,” he whispered to me. “Weren't you bored when you saw that
bed scene? Arkin looked so happy in it!”

I couldn't speak! Whatever else she said was a joke, maybe Arkin
liked it or why Arkin didn't seem to have anything to talk about. She
wondered how many times that had happened. For a long time, my
head was just getting hot from what Yanna was saying.

“That's enough,” I said annoyed and turned away from him. “We're
leaving.” I immediately pulled Arkin by the arm back to the car.

When we got in, I was just quiet and staring straight ahead. Is that
right? Why does Arkin seem to be okay?! How many scenes like that
have they filmed? He's used to it?! Why didn't he react? He must be
happy!

“Come with me to the shoot… It'll only be a short while and there won't be many people
there because it's late at night,” he told me.

I didn't care anymore and just nodded. I couldn't even understand what
she was saying properly. I was just filled with anger because Yanna kept
repeating what she was saying!

Arkin made me put on a cap and mask when we entered the studio. He
said he was with his new assistant. Assistant?! How did I become an
assistant, huh?!

“Ah, are you still setting up?” he asked outside as I entered the dressing
room. I sat down in front of the vanity table and looked at myself in the
mirror. We were the only ones here. “Will it be long? Okay… There's dinner,
right?”

When Arkin entered, he placed food in front of me. I ate quietly,

ignoring him. I could still feel
his glances at me, wondering why I wasn't speaking.

I quickly finished my food and drank some juice while still deep in
thought. It's annoying... Why did I only think of these things now?

“Are you okay?” Arkin asked as he cleared away our food. He

also drank some juice and finished eating.

When he was finished, he sat down next to me and faced me with

the chair. I couldn't look at him and even frowned slightly so that I
wouldn't be seen frowning.

“What's the problem?” he asked me calmly while holding both hands on

the edge of my chair. “You've been like that for a while…”

“Nothing.” I wasn't looking at him so he grabbed my chin and

forced me to face him again. When I didn't say anything, he came
closer and planted a kiss on my lips.

"You still won't talk?" he asked me seriously.

“Yanna said… You looked so happy in that bed scene with Clea. Are
you happy?” I asked her directly.

His lips parted and he fell to his forehead. I heard his name and
Yanna's name before he looked at me again.

“Babe…” he called me calmly. “What are you so excited about? I

wasn't even smiling in that scene.”

“But did you enjoy it?” I raised an eyebrow at him.

“Jusko…” He sat down on his forehead again and bent down, massaging the
sensation. “No, I did not enjoy it.” He stared at me and tried to read what I
was thinking. “I never enjoyed it. It was just for work. Pure work.”

“Why? How many times has that happened and-”

“Why do you keep on asking about bed scenes?” She ruffled her hair
and turned to the door before looking back at me. “Do you really want
to know how I feel about it?”

“Of course, you're happy-” I was stunned when he kissed me again. This
time, it wasn't a peck anymore. He held my jaw with his one hand and
opened my mouth so he could push his tongue inside. I closed my eyes and
held onto his arm, not knowing what to do.

He pulled me upright and leaned me against the vanity table, both

of his hands on my sides. He still didn't break his kiss from me. He
was tasting every corner of me! I didn't even know how to kiss!

"Did you also kiss her like this?" I asked bitterly.

"Please," he whispered, getting frustrated. "I only enjoy this with you." He bit
my lower lip and kissed me again.

I looked at the door. He must have noticed because he told me it was

locked earlier. I don't know how far his kisses will take us but I'm
nervous! I also looked around to find a camera but I didn't see
anything.

“It's a dressing room, Via. No cameras allowed,” he told me before

kissing my neck.

I grabbed his hair as his kiss moved down to my chest. I was already
panting so hard and my heart was beating so fast, making it hard to
breathe. Oh my god… I don't know what's going on. I have so many
questions!

“Arkin-”

“I swear, if it's about the bed scene again, I'll let you experience it
right here.” He raised an eyebrow at me while holding one hand on
my waist. I couldn't speak and just put my hand on his shoulder.
“What?”
“Nothing…” My gaze dropped to his lips. “You need to get ready
for the shoot…”

“Don't look at me like that, Via.” He bowed his head and

sighed, seemingly trying to control himself.

"This is how she looked at you in the movie..."

I felt something inside me snap when he picked me up by the waist and

placed me on top of the vanity table before kissing me. I knew he was
angry but he couldn't tell me so he was just putting up with it. I also
knew… I was jealous so I tried to annoy him.

“Arkin!” I called out in surprise as his hand went inside my shirt and
landed on my chest. I bit my lip hard as he kissed my neck. “W-wait…”
My jacket was falling off my shoulders. He was still standing between
my legs! Our position looked so sexual, fully-clothed.

“Hey… Fuck,” he whispered before resting his head on my shoulder.

“I told you… I never liked Clea. It has always been you…”

I felt guilty! I grabbed his cheek and leaned in to kiss him on the lips.
It was supposed to be a short kiss, but he moved his lips and lowered
his hand to the leggings I was wearing. My jacket fell to the table.

He was stunned when he saw what fell from his pocket. He stared at it for a long
time so I looked too. My cheeks immediately turned red when I saw the condom
that Yanna had slipped into my pocket!

“Via?” Arkin's voice was accusing as he picked it up from the floor.

He showed it to me in between his fingers with a brow arched.
“You've really changed…”

“N-that's not mine!” I tried to explain.

“Really? Here?” He looked around and grinned before planting a kiss
on my neck. “You're getting wild.”

I slapped his shoulder and tried to explain when he suddenly pulled

down the leggings I was wearing. My lips parted, especially when he
came closer and kissed me again. He pulled me by the waist and sat on
the chair, me on top of him.

“Are you jealous?” he asked teasingly while I was on top of him. I could
feel his between my legs… because he had already taken off my
leggings. Luckily I was wearing an oversized shirt so it covered a small
part of my leg.

“I'm not jealous…” I pulled away from him again. He kissed me slowly
before pinching my cheek. “Hmm…” I hid my face in his neck as he
lowered my waist so I was completely sitting on him.

“Just admit it… You’re jealous,” he whispered to me as his arm

wrapped around my waist and back. One of his hands went down
between my legs. I buried my face deeper in his neck, breathing
heavily.

“I didn’t…” I couldn’t finish what I was going to say when he inserted his
hand into my unique underwear below. He caressed me with his hand
and teased me with a finger.

“Not what?” he asked again.

“I wasn’t… jealous…” I couldn’t breathe properly. He inserted a

finger inside me and thrusted it slowly. I could even hear my
wetness. I was going crazy. I don’t know how I got into this
position.

“It doesn't sound like that to me,” he whispered as he inserted another finger
inside me. I felt like I was going crazy. I couldn't answer him! He knew what
he was doing! “Do you love me?” he asked again.
"What the hell..." I pinched his arm because he started thrusting his
fingers so fast inside me. When I felt something building up on my
stomach, he suddenly pushed me up and stood up, taking off my panties.

He sat me down on the vanity table again and while I was taking a bite of what Yanna
had given me, he took off his belt. It was like I was no longer myself!

“Arkin? Fifteen minutes, you'll be ready,” the staff said outside. My

eyes widened and my heart beat faster, but Arkin didn't seem to care.

“Alright!” he shouted before kissing me again. “Let's be fast, then?” he

whispered.

We stared at each other. I don't know why but I just nodded at him. “Yeah?”
he repeated and I nodded again. He smiled before kissing me again. He
was holding both of my legs, spreading it before entering me slowly. I bit
his shoulder hard because of the pain.

“I'm sorry, babe… but we have to be fast,” he apologized. He

covered my mouth with one of his hands before he thrust himself
into me. I screamed into his hand as I breathed heavily.

“Who,” I whispered as he slowly moved.

“Arkin, are the clothes you're going to wear there?” I don't know how to hide
myself from embarrassment because I know there's someone outside.

He pushed deep inside me while covering my mouth. "Yes, they're here!" he

answered again.

“That denim jacket and that black shirt. Go change. The makeup artist
is coming soon!”

Arkin held my waist and thrusted fast and deep inside me, panting. “Yeah, I'll
change,” he replied again while he was busy with me. He suddenly took off his
shirt in front of me before his hand went down to my sensitive bud. I
covered my mouth while I felt something in my stomach.

“Keep quiet, Via,” he whispered to me.

I looked down at one of my hands when I felt something he was wearing

there. I was surprised to see our friendship bracelet from before.

"I love you," he whispered to me.

I bit my lower lip when I felt my release. He also followed after me and
started slow-thrusting as he spilled on the protection. He sighed on my
neck before slowly taking it out. He ran his hand through his hair and
wiped his sweat with the back of his hand while panting.

“Come on…” He held my hand and made me sit there while he got a
tissue. It was embarrassing but he cleaned me up! He also dressed
me and kissed me on the lips again. I couldn't stand up now. My
legs were shaking! I was weak.

What the hell just happened?! This is not what I expected to happen!

He was getting dressed while I was looking away. I don't know how
to act in front of him now! It's… it's been a while since we last did
that and I'm still not happy. Why… Why did we do it here?!

“Now, are you still jealous?” He turned to me and raised an eyebrow at

me while putting on his shirt. I shook my head quickly at him, making
him smile. “Yeah? That's what I thought.”

___________________________________________________ ___________________

:)

47 [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

"What's the problem between you two? Are you two at war again?"
I looked at Dan who had been wondering why I was avoiding Arkin
even though we were together at Clea's house to check on the
progress of the house. It was going so fast and it was almost
finished. Only the interior would be fixed and things could be put in.
Clea also pays a lot here so there were a lot of construction workers
working. That would speed up our process.

I can't look at Arkin now because every time I see him, I remember
what happened to us in the dressing room the other day. That hasn't
left my mind! I can't even look at Clea who is busy choosing her
favorite interior design because their bed scene is the reason we
ended up like that!

Arkin wasn't supposed to be here but he brought me food because I

hadn't had lunch yet. I came from Bulacan and I came straight here
with Dan. He just came back with me because he left his car at the
company.

“We are not enemies,” I said simply to Dan while I was fixing something on
my laptop. I was just doing whatever I wanted while Clea was choosing
because I didn't want to distract Arkin.

I grabbed the tape measure and stood up to measure the cabinets we

were planning to put in. I stepped onto the foldable metal stairs and put
the pencil to my ear as I measured. I could feel Arkin's gaze behind me,
which made me even more nervous! I forgot the measurements!

Dan also held the ladder so I wouldn't fall. When he noticed I was
taking too long, he offered to take the measurements himself, but I
shook my head. If he did that, how could I be busy?! I have to be busy
so Arkin doesn't talk to me!

“Via, eat first.” I almost fell down the stairs when I heard Arkin's voice.
I turned to him in panic as he sat there at the kitchen island.

“L-later!” I quickly pulled away and continued measuring. “Clea, are

you okay with this?” I immediately changed the topic.
I went down the stairs after Clea said so and we also talked about
when it could be finished. I said, I'll just help with the interior but my
partner will take care of that. It will be fine because I already know
the materials to be used and the cut of the house has been fixed.

“Are you done?” Arkin looked down and looked at me boredly.

“Eat.” He weakly pushed the takeout he was carrying towards me. I
was hungry so I had no choice but to sit in front of him to eat.

"How was the shoot the other day?" Clea asked Arkin.

“It was good,” Arkin replied and looked at me. “The dressing
room was so nice.”

I almost threw up what I was eating! I immediately coughed and

reached for the drink so I could swallow the food properly. My throat
itched there! I didn't know how to react! It would be obvious if I
overreacted so I just kept quiet!

"What do you mean? I had a shoot there too last week and the dressing
room was the usual one." Clea frowned. "Did they put you in another
dressing room? I'm jealous!"

“No, but for some reason, I liked that dressing room. How
memorable.” Even though I wasn’t looking, I knew Arkin was
grinning as he spoke. “It wasn’t sound-proof though.”

“It's not a recording studio, Larkin.” I saw Clea frown when I glanced
at her. Luckily, she didn't follow what Larkin meant.

“Oh, a recording studio sounds nice too…” Arkin and I suddenly met
eyes. He raised an eyebrow at me and grinned at my reaction. “Do you
like it, Via?”
“H-huh?!” I asked in surprise, my cheeks still full of food.
“That’s so rude-”

“'That food.” He looked at it and gestured before letting out a short

laugh. “Is it delicious? Does it suit your taste?”

I couldn't answer right away and just bent down to eat again. Luckily,
Clea left us to go outside while Dan was talking to the engineer. They
are now friends.

"You've been ignoring me for a while, huh? What's the problem?" he asked
me.

“Nothing,” I answered shortly. I immediately felt my cheeks heat up as

I remembered what had happened again. I really don't know how I
managed to get home! I felt like I was in a fog! I was just stunned and
couldn't remember what he was saying after that! I was so surprised
that I had a bracelet!

“Hmm?” He came closer and tucked my hair behind my ear while

staring at me. “Why? Didn’t you like it?”

“I like the food,” I answered clearly now.

“Not that. The sex.”

I was really choking on what I was eating so he immediately handed me

the drink while laughing. I couldn't speak and my chest hurt from what
he said! Even though I had drunk water, I was still coughing! Arkin was
so shameless! It's a good thing no one heard!

“Can we not talk about that anymore?” I whispered to him, getting

angry.

“Ouch!” He held his chest and looked around. “You're so cold. Is this
the part where you will tell me that it was a mistake?” His eyebrows
rose.
I knew it wasn't a mistake and I knew I also wanted it! I just can't admit it
because it's embarrassing! I'm ashamed of what I did and I'm ashamed of the
place where we did it! Never in my life have I thought of doing that in a place
with people! I know there are no people inside but there are outside! It's
embarrassing! What happened to me?!

“I'm not kidding you,” I told him seriously and frowned.

My leg still hurts from what happened! The middle of my leg hurts
even more! It hurts even more than the first time we did it, probably
because I was more focused on the pain I felt in my heart. Now, the
pain is concentrated there! Our first time was also my last! I never
saw myself doing it with another man!

I stopped eating when I heard a car park in front of the house. I

turned around and saw a man walking in. He was wearing formal
clothes, a navy blue buttondown long sleeves polo rolled up to the
elbow, a necktie, black slacks, black shoes, and specs.

I know this, huh!

"Clea?" he asked Arkin with a smile.

Arkin was just about to point out the backyard when Clea suddenly
entered, running towards the man. Dan turned around and was surprised
when Clea suddenly hugged Adonis.

“Love!” he said happily while hugging her neck. “Hi! What brings you
here?!” He kissed Adi on the lips, which surprised me even more! “I
missed you!”

“I just got back from the firm.” He grabbed Clea by the waist. “You
left your wallet in my car.” He held up the Chanel wallet.

“Ah, right! I forgot! Oh my gosh, it's a good thing I wasn't driving! My

license was there!” He pulled away and grabbed his wallet.
I was still shocked by what I saw but I just moved away and ate because
they might look weird at me! Who wants to stare at someone while
they're talking to their partner?!

“Gagi, Clea's boyfriend?” Dan came up to me to ask. He was so pathetic and

felt like his heart was breaking because his celebrity crush already had a
boyfriend.

“They've been around for a long time,” Arkin replied.

“What the frick!” Dan still couldn’t believe it. “It’s true!”

Clea and Adi stayed there because Clea was showing off the designs.
After I finished eating, Dan and I went back to the company to work.
I also went out early and went straight to a coffee shop to buy pasta.
I didn't want to cook so this was our dinner for later.

When I got home, Aidan was watching Arkin on TV. Rumors were that Clea
and Arkin were building a house for the two of them, but Arkin has been
making it clear in interviews and on his live shows that he is single, which is
why fans are wondering. They really aren't... It's good that he's not lying
anymore.

How is Adi? Clea's boyfriend. He's a friend of Luna's ex so I

recognized him right away. He used to tease Luna whenever he saw
her. He's also the football player she used to talk to over drinks! Did I
think he rejected her back then?!

I also wonder if she's okay with gossip like this... that she has a
boyfriend and another girlfriend. It's good and they both seem happy
and don't have any problems. How would she react to the bed
scenes?!

There it is again! My brain is filled with bed scenes again! I can't help but
compare myself to Adi. It seems okay to him... while to me, it's not. It
seems like he can do it. He's so brave... Even though Clea is so famous,
she's not afraid of people. I hope to talk to her.
I once told him. I feel like he's the only one who can
understand how I feel right now.

I took my phone and searched for him on social media. I just went to
Sam's followings and I immediately saw Adonis' account. It's public
and he also has a lot of posts. It's all HD. He's often with Kalix's other
friends. I think Leo and Amethyst.

I saw that they were following each other on Instagram. I followed him
too. I don't have any posts and my account is private but I was
surprised when he immediately sent me a follow request! Does he
check who follows him?!

I didn't accept that and just let it be. The next day, Clea and I had a
meeting at a coffee shop. She and her boyfriend were together but not
next to each other. Adi was in the middle of the table and Clea and I
were opposite each other so it wouldn't be obvious.

“Sorry, I have to bring him because my car is getting repaired.” Clea smiled
at me hesitantly.

“It's okay…” I glanced at Adonis who was talking on his cellphone. I

heard something about the law. He seemed busy.

“I'll just order!” Clea stood up, leaving us and her boyfriend alone!
Adonis had just finished the call, so he looked at me and smiled.

“Architect!” he greeted me excitedly. “How are you?! You're

Arkin's girlfriend, right?”

“Uh…” I didn’t know what to say to that. “I don’t know…” I looked away and
looked at Clea who was standing in line there. “It’s good that the media
doesn’t catch you…” I couldn’t say it out loud.

“It's fine. We don't care.” He shrugged and laughed. “You? It's a good
thing Larkin doesn't catch you either!”
“We're being careful…” I bowed. “You seem to be okay with Clea and
Arkin's loveteam, right? Aren't you jealous or something? Because
they can be together in public and yet… you… have to hide.”

“Hmm…” He held his chin and looked up before grinning at me. “In the
loveteam, I’m okay. It’s not like before when they had a deal with
management to pretend. Now, it’s just for projects. It wasn’t as serious
as before. I think Clea, having a boyfriend that isn’t Arkin, won’t affect
her career that much now. She has proven herself a lot in the industry
and she can be paired with anyone. She’s very versatile. I’m not jealous
at all… Clea is the jealous one.”

"Wow," I whispered. "Is it even the same with Arkin?"

"You know, Arkin's probably going to be fine with it. Clea's going to be
okay with it and I am too. Your problem now is yourself, because you're
the one who's not okay with the spotlight, I'm guessing." That's a
question.

I smiled at him sparingly. “Trauma…” I said softly.

“Oh.” He nodded. "Well, what happened last time was so terrible. You know
what's best for your mental being... At your own pace. It's not required that
you're okay with everything. Don't compare yourself to me because I don't
care about stuff like those. I just care when I know it's going to affect Clea's
career. We are different. There's no point in comparing yourself to me, or
your relationship with us." He winked and gave me a playful smile.

“What are you guys talking about?” Clea asked with a smile as she set
down the tray. “Was it Arkin?”

“Just… stuff, babe,” Adi replied.

After the meeting, Arkin and I talked about meeting at the shop where
Aidan bought the guitar. He said there was a studio room there and that's
where he often went whenever he wanted to write a song. It
was his creative space and he wanted me to see it. There are also instruments
there. Complete.

When I entered the shop, the man at the counter pointed to a door. When I
entered, there was a staircase leading downstairs. There was another door at
the bottom of the stairs and when I opened it, I saw the music studio. The
instruments were complete and Arkin was there, playing the guitar. He also
stopped when he saw me.

“How's work?” he asked me when I entered. I put down my things

before sitting on the couch. I even picked up the guitar from the side.

“Work…” I replied weakly. “It’s okay.”

It's always been like that. My job was just 'okay'. I can't say I was
happy but I can't say I was sad either. It was just there… My job. I
couldn't even say that I was living my best life at the moment.
Nothing was best for me. I was also not best at anything.

“Will you resign from your architectural firm once you start writing
music?” Arkin asked me suddenly, reading my thoughts.

I immediately shook my head. “I need to study, my brothers and sisters…”

“Work for me, Via.”

My eyebrows furrowed at what he said. I didn't immediately get

it. How could I work for him?

"Write music for me or with me. I will pay you enough... Just what you
deserve," he tried to convince me but I still shook my head.

“My job is a waste,” I said. “I’m just new to music. I’m not good at it
yet.”

“Then do you want to start now? I'm writing a song…” He took the paper
he was writing on earlier and handed it to me. When I picked it up, there
were the lyrics and guitar chords.
I tried to play it on the guitar I was holding but I couldn't get it so he taught
me how to play the tune. "Open your eyes... I'm with you..." He started
singing but stopped immediately because he couldn't think of what to do
next.

"About what?" I asked.

“About us,” he replied simply. “I just want to write about how we

started… and ended. I want to tell our story through music. It would
be great if you had some input too.”

I played that song on the guitar again while thinking. “You… are still the one I
want to be with… No one else,” I whispered and took out the paper to write.

I was just word-vomiting. I was writing down what I thought was in the
song and erasing what wasn't. Arkin was also thinking of his own verse. I
don't know but he seemed right and there was something about this
place that made me think clearly. I wasn't used to writing music. I only
wrote one for him and it still wasn't clear. Now… I can think of so many
words.

I have so much to write. If I could fit everything I'm thinking into one
song, it would be so long. This is what writing feels like. I was
expressing myself through it. It's like I'm passing on the weight I feel.
It makes him feel lighter.

“You should sing this with me,” Arkin said. “You can’t… You wrote this
with me.”

I looked at him and just smiled. “Okay, then… For now.”

Because I don't know if I'll change my mind when I try to free myself
from music again. I don't know what awaits me there. I don't know
what awaits me at the end of the road I'm going to take... or if there
is an end at all.
What if I like it so much that I don't know how to stop? Will I get
tired? Will I get tired of the music? That's what Arkin was afraid of,
isn't it? That's why he chose film over music.

“When do you plan to have your own movie?” I asked him.

“After I graduate,” he replied. “I also made a lot of short films for my

school projects. Actually, one of them won a film fest.”

“Wow…” I said in disbelief. “It’s really different when you love what
you do, right? You could create better output. What is the film
about?”

"Wala... Love story. It also did not end well but for some reason, the
audience liked it." He shrugged. "And I also did its own soundtrack.
It was memorable."

“You're really thriving…” I smiled, thinking about how he looked when

he was doing the things he loved. I admired him for that. “Congrats.
I'm so proud of you.”

He stared at me for a long time, so I suddenly felt lost, not knowing

where to look. He suddenly put down the guitar and walked towards
me. He touched my cheek and leaned down to kiss me. I also looked
up at him to reach him.

“You make me so happy…” he whispered. “Thank you.”

I laughed for a moment and touched his hand that was on my cheek.
“No, I should thank you instead for pushing me back to music. I like
him… I know I like what I do but I wouldn't have realized it if you
hadn't pushed me in that direction.”

It's true. He was the reason why I started loving music again. I was
starting to live in the present… not chained by my past. It's not easy
because I know my hands are still chained to the past, but that's good too.
and I'm moving somehow. My feet are moving in the direction
I want to go.

It became our routine whenever we saw each other. We would hang out in that
studio and write music together. We also played music together. Little by little,
my love for music started to grow again.

“Are you sure you won't visit your mom today?” Arkin asked me as we were
walking back home. “Because I'm going to stop by the condo first. My
manager sent a cake because the movie had good ratings. I'll just get it.”

I shook my head. “I have no reason to visit… Let’s just get the

cake.”

It was already night when we arrived at his condo parking lot. I got
out and followed him into his unit. It was dark there so I couldn't walk
properly. When Arkin turned on the light, I almost jumped in shock
when I saw so many people.

“Surprise! Congratulations!” My lips parted when I saw the familiar

faces. The cast of their movie was there, along with the directors, his
manager, and other friends. I didn't know what to do. Arkin's face
also showed surprise.

“Uh…” Arkin didn't know what to say. I saw that the others were also
surprised to see me behind him. They didn't know me. Clea was there,
looking surprised to see me too.

"Your friend? Is that an artist? Who is that?" a showbiz person

joked.

There was a camera... They were filming the surprise. I don't know where
to look. I looked at the floor and held my chest. It was so hard to breathe
with many people inside the room. It was suffocating.

Camera flashes. They were filming him. They were taking pictures of him
as I hid behind him. My hands were shaking when I saw the flashes.
It's so bright. I was dazzled.

“Arkin, who's that? Come here! Clea's waiting for you to blow the
candle!” Clea held the cake and didn't know what to do.

"Arkin's friend? Come here! Join the party! I've never seen you before!"

“He’s familiar, huh…”

Familiar. I'm familiar. I was that girl… back then. I was that girl. The media
made me look like that. How do I explain that? I started walking back. I took
a step back while trying to cover my face with my hand.

“Huh? Isn't she the girl…”

"Via-" I ran away when Arkin called me. I took the stairs to go to the parking lot
because the elevator took so long. I was running down the stairs while Arkin
was trying to catch up. But... But I had nowhere to go.

I got on the elevator and just went to the lobby. I was shaking while watching
the floor number go down. After stopping, Arkin also just followed from the
stairs. He tried to catch up when I tried to run away.

"Via, no! There's media outside!" He tried to stop me but it was too late.

When I walked out of the building with Arkin holding my arm, trying to
stop me, interviewers were alarmed. "Ark!" They called for him and
started running to us. It was starting to get crowded. It was… again…
suffocating.

“Arkin, who is that with you? Isn't that your girlfriend from before?”

“Is she your girlfriend and not Clea?”

"What's your real relationship with Clea? Are you cheating on her?"

“Is she a third party?”

People were already crowding me. The cameras were on me, as well as
the microphones. Arkin pulled me back and hid me behind his back,
putting his cap on my head. He also turned to me and grabbed my
shoulder to get us back inside. Guards arrived to remove the media.

I could feel everyone looking at me. Arkin quickly took me to the fire exit
and made me sit on the stairs.

"Via, I'm sorry, I didn't know..." He stopped himself from explaining when
he saw me getting pale. "Via...Via...Listen to me."

Third party. Girlfriend. Clea.

I covered my ears because I kept on hearing them. I also closed my eyes

because I could still see the cameras. The flashes. I got blinded by them.

“Via… Hey…” Arkin knelt in front of me and held both of my hands.

“Look at me… I'm here. We're safe here. I'm the only one here…”

I shook my head at him as tears streamed down my face. He fell

silent as I cried. I don't know why but tears kept falling down my face
as I shook my head at everything he said.

"No..." I whispered to him.

I can see the content of the news when I get home or when I wake
up. I can feel people's disgusted looks at me again. I can remember
how I used to hide myself every time I went to school. The chain on
my other hand started to pull me back.

It was back to zero. I realized that I couldn't take it. I still can't. I can't do
it. I couldn't move forward. I'm still like this… Everything I did in the past
few days was useless.

“Via…” Arkin grabbed both of my wrists to take them down from

my ears. “Avianna! Listen to me, please!”
I opened my eyes and looked at him. He was also starting to tear up. I could
see the pain and regret in his eyes while staring at me.

“I'm here…” he repeated. “I'm here… I won't disappear. I'm the only one
here… I won't leave you, okay? Are you listening to me? Do you understand
what I'm saying? I love you… and I will protect you no matter what.”

I couldn't answer as I stared at him. Whenever I looked at him, I was

reminded by where he was standing in the industry. One of the most
famous actors in show business, if not, the most famous one. He was
kneeling in front of me, holding my hands.

How could I forget? How could I forget that he was far from me? That we were
different from each other.

“You’re… far away, Arkin…” My voice broke as I started crying hard.

“Via, I'm here… Please.” His grip on my hands tightened. “It's

different now… It should be different now. Trust me…”

I shook my head. “I can’t… I can’t…” I held my chest. “There are so

many people watching. I can’t…”

“Honey…” He sighed and came over to hug me. “Shush… You can…
You're with me… Just trust me. Stay with me.”

I cried even harder. “I want to go home…” I begged. “I don’t want to be

here anymore, Arkin…” I grabbed onto his clothes. “Please…”

He nodded while hugging me. I don't know how I managed to get up

and follow him to the parking lot. He made sure there was no one
there before he put me in his car. I was closing my eyes the whole
trip. My eyes hurt from crying.

When he dropped me off at home, I just went straight down and walked
inside. He was about to follow but I immediately closed the door. I fell to
my knees again and cried. I was scared… I was so scared.
I'm so scared to go out again. I've been protecting myself for years… So
why is this happening again? All those years I spent trying to heal became
nothing. Did I make the wrong choice again?

But my choice was to love… Why do I still feel wrong?

“When will my love be right?” I whispered to myself. Will I ever… be

happy?

___________________________________________________ ___________________

48 [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

"Sister? You have work today... Aren't you going to get up yet?"

I was just staring at the ceiling when I heard Mira's voice. I had been
awake for a while. I don't even know if I fell asleep or not but I didn't feel
like getting out of my bed.

“I cooked for Aidan,” she said again. “Uhm… Sister…”

I know he wants to say something. Has he heard? What happened

last night is probably all over the news again. I don't know how to
feel. I just stare into space while letting all the scenes I can imagine
enter my system. I'm hearing so much. I'm anticipating so many
headlines.

I don't know how to face the world anymore. I don't have the
strength to leave the house or even my room. I'm afraid of what
my siblings will think... My siblings...

I covered my face when I thought about having to work for my

brothers and sisters. I felt so bad and so heavy, but I knew I had to
do something for them. If I could just stay here, I would, but I also
had many responsibilities that I couldn't escape.
“Okay, Mira… I’m fine,” I said calmly as I grabbed my clothes. She just
nodded and went down the stairs to leave me. When she was gone, I
dropped the clothes I was holding and sat on the floor. I sighed and
pulled myself together.

I had to fix myself, even just in appearance, just on the outside, so

that I wouldn't look like I was broken inside. My brain wasn't right.
My heart wasn't right, and my siblings knew it. They just stared at
me when I came out wearing a cap and face mask. I was also
wrapped up in long sleeves and pants.

I was trying to protect myself with clothes, thinking that the more I covered
myself, the more they couldn't hurt me... but I knew the damage was inside. No
one can see it... but it was there. Only I knew about my own suffering, about how
hard it was to deal with my wounds.

It was not healed at all. The scars just opened again and it hurt more than
before since I was just not carrying the present, but the past too. It bled
more... It was deeper than before.

I went into work without talking to anyone, not even Dan. He didn't
know how to talk to me either but I could feel his eyes on me. I
wanted to beg him not to look at me but I knew he was just
worried about me. I didn't know what they had seen or read. I
didn't have the energy to look at my phone. I didn't want to see
what people were saying about me.

“Architect Diaz-”

I almost jumped from my seat when I heard someone call me. He seemed
surprised by my reaction too, especially when I looked at him. My eyes
were full of fear and my hands were shaking as I waited for what he would
say.

“I'm just going to approve the interior for Ms. Aguilar's house…” He
gently placed the folder on my table.
“O-okay.” I stuttered before looking away and bowing again, not wanting to show
myself and be seen by the people around me. I picked up the folder and looked
at the contents even though my mind was wandering everywhere.

At lunch, I didn't go down and join my workmates either. I stayed at my

desk, hunched over and with my eyes closed. I didn't feel like eating. I
just wanted to go home. I just wanted to hide. I couldn't rest whenever
I heard my name. My heart was beating faster and I was having trouble
breathing. I also turned off my phone because even calls and texts
made me nervous.

I was just adjusting my seat when someone placed bread on my desk.

Jaedan raised an eyebrow at me when our eyes met.

“Eat first,” he said calmly. “Even if it’s just this. It’s bad to starve.”

I shook my head and handed him the bread back, but he slipped it
into my bag. He said, when I get hungry, I know where to get
food. I don't have the strength to argue with him anymore.

I drowned myself in work until I had to leave work. When I drove

home, I was surprised because there were people waiting outside.
They were holding cameras and microphones. My grip on the
steering wheel tightened. I immediately thought of my siblings.

Where are they? Did they get home safely? What should I do? I
couldn't get out of my car. I just stood there for a long time before I
drove away, not knowing where I was going.

My face was getting hot as I drove. I could barely see anything as

tears started to fall from my eyes due to fear and anxiety. I didn't
know where I was going but I found myself in front of a door.

“Via?!”
Luna was surprised when I leaned my head on her shoulder while
crying. She immediately hugged me and stroked my hair, worried but
unable to ask. I just cried to her while she calmed me down.

“Shush… I'm here… Don't worry,” he whispered to me repeatedly.

I don't know how long I cried, but when I calmed down, I found myself
on the sofa while he got some water. I was just hunched over and
gasping for breath because I was having a hard time again because of
the weight of my crying.

“You sleep here for now,” he told me and placed the glass of water in
front of me. “Do you want to talk to Sam? He was calling me earlier
because he said he couldn’t reach you…”

I just nodded at him so he took his laptop to make a video call. He

also left for a moment and went to his room because he said he was
finishing some work. Sam just appeared on my screen, his face very
worried while I drank water.

“Hey, goodness! I thought something happened to you already!” He

was clearly nervous and even clutched his chest. “How are you, love?”
His voice became calm again.

I shook my head and smiled at him shyly. “I don’t know.” No words could
explain what I was feeling at that time. My emotions were all over the place.
Fear was dominating everything.

"Why don't you try to visit Dr. Peja? I texted you her contact details
before... Kierra knows her too," he carefully told me. She looked so
worried for me so I needed to give her an assuring smile.

“Okay…” I said softly. I didn't want to worry her anymore. I just had to say
okay so she wouldn't worry about me anymore.

"The thing with media and people on the internet... is that they find
entertainment in other people's lives, and I'm so sorry that you became one
of their targets just for being associated with Larkin..." He
sighed. "Larkin actually called me earlier."

I looked up at him, surprised. Oh, by the way… My phone was turned

off so I didn't even know if Arkin tried to talk to me.

"He's holding an interview tomorrow. I referred someone for him. An

interviewer I trust," he said. "And I hope everything will be sorted out...
While talking to him, he really seemed so... grown up."

He laughed for a moment, which made me laugh too. I wasn't the only
one who noticed the change in Arkin. Not only did he look more
mature, his way of thinking also changed.

"He said he would do everything to protect you... and that he doesn't care
anymore about his career... But you know what I told him?" Sam raised his
eyebrows. "That you will just blame yourself more if he happens to ruin his
career for you... So it's better to just... say what your heart wants to say. No
more lies... Just be true to his feelings and let the people judge... As long as he
says the truth, then it's up to the person, Via... It's up to them on how they will
take it... The burden is not on you or Arkin anymore."

"Easier said than done," I said with a smile and shook my head.

"It's really not easy to deal with it... and I should know, right?" She also gave
me a sad smile. I also remembered how he struggled then. I wish I had
sympathized with him more during those times. "I can't even say it's going to
be okay soon... because we don't know what the result will be... But what I can
promise you is that you will never be alone. You... and Arkin will never be
alone. Our friends and I will always stay by your side whatever happens. You
got it?"

“Thank you, Sam.” I don’t know how I can thank Sam for everything
she did for me. She brought comfort from miles away. Even though
she was far away, she didn’t forget to say hello to her friends. She
was really that kind of person… The one who could find
comfort by seeing their friends doing well. He feels okay whenever
he sees us doing well.

She was trying to remind us all that we were not alone… that she was
with us, and I know it was also because of her fear. She was seeing her
sister in everyone. She didn't want that to happen again. Everyone is
afraid of something… but I admired Sam for still trying everything she
could to not experience that pain again.

I also tried to avoid experiencing this again… I kept moving away. I

broke up… but like before, Arkin and I were like magnets. We were
always drawn to each other. I was weak for a moment… but I cannot
just let this ruin everything I worked on before. I tried to heal myself…
but I guess it wasn't the right time yet.

No matter what happens tomorrow… I'm ready to accept it. I will accept
it… but that doesn't mean I'm going to force myself to do it all. I realized
that progress wasn't linear… Sometimes I could go back to where I
started… but sometimes I could go back to where I advanced.

I'm not alone. That's what Sam said. Simple words but it felt like all the
weight had been lifted off my chest… even if just for tonight. It also
helped that I knew Luna was around me… and I knew she wouldn't let
anything bad happen to me.

I felt safe with my friends. If only they could be there forever by my

side… But I also had to learn how to move forward by myself in order to
grow.

The next day, I still had to go to work. I was still wearing Luna's clothes
even though they weren't my style. It was okay because it was office
attire and there was nothing I could do. I didn't cover myself anymore...
but I still couldn't look at people.

I went to the site in the morning. At lunch, I went into a small office in
Bulacan to cool off while everyone ate outside. I just stared at my
laptop, wondering if I should watch
Is that video of his interview? This is the first time I've gone online
again since what I feared happened.

I took a deep breath before watching the video. I just held on tightly
to the water bottle I was holding, nervous about what I might hear.

“So… What do you think about the videos and pictures circulating on the
internet? For sure you've seen that too, right, Arkin? The netizens' reactions
were mixed and this will be the first time you'll address it,” said the
interviewer.

"Yeah." Arkin nodded and smiled. "I'm sure the girl was familiar to some...
because as what others speculated, she was the girl I was with in the
pictures before... The media made her look like... a third party... the one
who ruined my relationship with Clea... the girl who seduced me... the girl
who was trying to fight Clea... Many..."

I shivered as I listened to what he said… but I knew there was

more to come. The interviewer also waited for him to speak again.

"But what people don't know is that... that girl... is the girl who was there from
the very beginning... from the moment I opened my eyes to the world... the girl
I first loved... the girl who made me write music, love music, embrace my
passion... the girl who listened and stayed beside me even before the public
knew me. She was there even though you weren't there... because that girl was
my childhood friend... My best friend."

“But what made you lie to the public?” the interviewer asked again.

"When I was starting my career, I didn't know any better. In this industry,
there's nowhere to go but up. I wanted to climb faster than everyone... and
Clea helped me with it. The management knew that we worked well together
and so... we did everything to stay with each other. All those lies of... dating...
Although we were just friends... and actually in love with another person
behind the cameras... All of those... I deeply regret... and
so I want to apologize to everyone, especially to my fans, Clea's fans, and of
course, ArClea fans.”

"So you and Clea were just friends all this time, right? In your last press con
after the same issue, you also apologized and decided to take a break from
showbiz. That was when you and Clea separated on projects. How is your
relationship with her now?"

"I actually felt bad for Clea because she was still being dragged into this...
but I admire her. I really admire her. She is the most professional actress I
have ever known. She really guided me and saved my ass a lot of times.
Clea is a really nice woman... and just like before, we are still friends. Just
friends... because both of us are happy with the people we truly love. For
me... I really love the girl in those pictures... and if I could just repeat
everything that happened before, I would gladly tell the world that I am
so in love with her. She's the only girl I ever fell in love with... and nothing
could ever change that."

“I just hope that people will stop throwing hates at her because she did nothing
wrong. She just loved… and if you think that loving is wrong, then what world are
we living in? She is having a hard time dealing with all this because of me. Every
time she gets hurt, it comes back to me twice as much. I don't like that. I'm not
asking people to continue supporting me… but at least direct your sentiments to
me instead. I can catch everything you throw at her… so let it be mine. Let her
live her life. Let her love freely.”

"Hearing it from you, I just know that she's an amazing and lovely girl..." The
interviewer smiled.

"She is." Arkin also smiled. "For the people watching this… I told you the truth
now… so it's up to you on how you will take it. I have nothing to hide… But I
have things that I want to keep private. I know I'm in the spotlight most of the
time, but what you see in front of the camera is not all of me. I still value the
things left for me… and I hope you will respect that. The people you see on
screen are still humans like you. They are not robots. They should not be.
Those people have lives outside the cameras, outside the set... and just like
you, we just want to freely be ourselves. That's all I ever want to ask from
you."
I finished the water bottle by the time the interview was over. I also breathed
a sigh of relief while being stunned by the emptiness. Everything he said
hadn't yet entered my brain. The only thing that remained was the part
where he told everyone that he loved me. I didn't expect him to say that to
everyone!

I don't know how people there reacted... but like Sam said, I
shouldn't have brought that with me. Whatever happens, people
will still talk.

Arkin did a good job... but no one can force me to face the things I wasn't
ready to face. I will just crumble down. I wanted to take it slow... at my own
pace. I knew what was best for myself... and I hoped he would also respect
that.

When I opened my phone, it was already flooded with notifications

from the past few days that I hadn't opened it. I saw the contact
details of the doctor Sam had referred me to. I stared at it for a long
time before I left the office, carrying my jacket.

“Hello? Is this Dr. Peja?” I asked on the phone as I walked. “Hello po. This is
Avianna Diaz… Samantha Vera gave me your contact details…”

I had to deal with it. I knew I had to... but I couldn't do it by myself yet. I
needed a little push. A professional one. Maybe this will work.

No… I will make this work.

After a few days, I finally found myself in front of Mama's grave. I

placed the flower there before sitting on the grass. I didn't move
away from her. I just placed my two hands on my sides to support
myself while I looked up at the sky. The sun was glaring so I
covered the top of my eyes with my palm.

“It's dazzling, isn't it?” I asked Mama before looking at her tombstone. “But a
little sunlight is also good and healthy… especially in the morning. It doesn't
hurt the skin.”
I arranged the flower and picked one from there to play with on my finger. I
looked at it for a long time while playing with the petals.

“Not all light hurts. I know that now,” I said. “I only need a little
light to do what I want… To write a song. For myself first… Not for
others.”

I took out the paper with the lyrics of the song Arkin and I wrote. I
held the edge of the paper against the candle I had lit. I watched as
the small flame slowly consumed the paper.

“I don’t like what I wrote,” I said when I ran out of paper. “If I were to
write a song… I want it to come from a heart that carries no weight. I
want… when people hear the song I wrote, they will feel the
lightness of my heart as I wrote it. Really light… No freshly healed
wounds. I want… my wounds to be closed before I change the
course of my life.”

I wasn't mad at her anymore. I wanted her to know everything I felt

now… but it wasn't anger anymore. I just felt hopeful for tomorrow.
My tomorrow.

“And the first step to that… is forgiving you,” I said. I smiled before
standing up and offering a flower I was holding. “I forgive you… for
everything. For the pain you gave me, for Papa, for my siblings. I
forgive you for leaving me… And don’t worry, I will do everything so
that what happened to you doesn’t happen again. I will heal the
wound you left for Papa and my siblings. I will do that… after I heal
mine.”

I backed away from his grave, brushing the grass off my clothes.
I looked up at the sky again before looking at his tombstone.

“Goodbye and thank you,” I said softly before walking away.

Arkin and I haven't spoken yet, but I plan to meet with him later after
work. I know my decision. I know the
Good for myself and for him.

I made sure I was at ease when I came in and left work. I had already
talked to my boss about my departure. I said they would send
someone to replace me for the project. I also finished Clea's house.
They could handle that.

I went to Arkin's school because he still had class. I sat on the grass,
by the Sunken Garden, watching the sunset alone. It was already
dark when he arrived and sat next to me.

"Via," he called, so I turned to him.

“I'll go home,” I told him, smiling.

His lips parted, not immediately understanding what I said, but he

slowly nodded and looked straight ahead. He hugged his knees and
didn't immediately answer me.

“You won't be mad at me?” I asked. That was the reaction I expected him to
have… but I seemed to have forgotten that he was no longer the Arkin I
knew before. He thought differently now. He already grew from his
experiences. From his pain.

“Are you coming back?” That was all he asked me.

I laughed for a moment before looking straight ahead, hugging my

knees as well. I could feel her expectant gaze on me.

“No,” I answered him firmly. “I’m not coming back.”

“Why?” There was no trace of anger in his voice. He was calm… but I could
hear the loneliness in his voice. “Did you watch the interview?”

I nodded to him. "Of course. You did a great job... You proved yourself
once more to the public. I heard you got a positive reaction after that.
Congratulations... and thank you also for clearing my name."
“How are you? How are you feeling today?” He still didn't forget to
ask, huh. I knew he was worried about me because I hadn't answered
his texts and calls the past few days. I was busy thinking.

“When I say I'm okay, it's not true.” Our eyes met so I gave him a
smile. Our eyes reflected each other. “I'm not ready to be part of your
world again…”

“And… will you be ready?” He was hopeful again.

“I can't give my healing process a deadline, Arkin,” I joked to him. “I

don't know the answer to that. I'm more thinking about myself first…
How can I help myself get back to where I started. I was okay… and
then I wasn't.” The tears started to form at the side of my eyes.

“I'm sorry…” He sighed when he saw me in tears again but I shook

my head at him, still smiling even though it hurt.

“No, don't be sorry. You did a great job protecting me this time… I owe a lot
to you. You shouldn't apologize to me. I chose this, Arkin… Everything
that's happening to me now, is because of my decisions… And I chose to
love you. There's nothing wrong with that.”

Even though I felt like my love for him was wrong at times, I also
realized that it was wrong because I had nothing left for myself. I
always gave my love and attention to the people around me because
I had a responsibility as a son, as a brother, as a friend.

I learned from a young age not to run away from my responsibilities. I had
to endure hardship for my family. I had to grow up faster than everyone
else so I could be reliable to my family. I had to always carry the weight on
my back so my siblings won't. All of my life, I was trying to clean up the
mess my mom made… and promised myself that I will never let other
people experience that. I didn't want to repeat what she did.
“I don't want to pass on all my fears and wounds to you, Kino,” I said
before wiping the tears that fell from my eyes. “I know you want to come
with me to face all of this… but this is my battle to begin with. You don't
have to fight this. You don't have to get hurt for me. I'm not ready yet…
and you know that.”

“Ah…” He laughed and leaned his hands behind his back while looking at the
sky. “I guess I pushed way too hard, huh…”

I shook my head at him again. “No, you pushed me just enough for me to
realize a lot of things.”

“I also didn't expect you to immediately face so many people… That wasn't
my intention. I'm sorry for not acting fast enough. When I saw you were so
scared, I chose to put you in a place where there were no people rather
than answer questions there and delay your escape from the crowds. I
hope you understood… that I couldn't talk impulsively. Everything I say at
that moment can just add fuel to the fire.”

“You made the right choice, Arkin.” I held his hand and squeezed it
gently. “I know you always think of me whenever you make a
decision. In that situation, I understand. Don't worry… I just didn't
talk to you because I needed time for myself… to make a decision.”

“And… your decision was to go back? Go back to Spain?” he asked

again. I nodded to him and said nothing. He just sighed before
looking up at the sky. “Did you feel relieved when you made that
decision?”

"Yes," I answered simply.

“Okay, then!” He smiled, adjusted his seat and quickly stood up.
He extended his hand to me to help me stand up too. “Come
on.”

I grabbed my things before holding his hand and standing up. I also
brushed my clothes before our eyes met. I was stunned.
I was shocked when he pulled me closer and hugged me tightly. I
hugged him back and patted his shoulder.

“Be careful there,” he said softly to me. “I hope your heart will finally be
put in its right place.”

I closed my eyes, feeling his warmth and comfort. I don't know how
to thank him for everything he did. I expected him to be mad at me
for leaving him again but he was… supportive of my decision… just
like how I was.

“Who… Remember this,” I said softly. “You are the music I want
everyone to hear…”

Because from now on, my love for other people will never be
shallow... and for myself.

___________________________________________________________
__________________

:)

49 [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

“Are you going to work there again?”

I nodded to Aidan as he helped me pack my clothes. I had expected

this but my chest still ached every time I thought about it
happening again. He was helping me pack again because I was
leaving them again.

“Son, your other clothes. I washed them last night…” Papa entered
my room and laid my clothes on the bed. I smiled at him sparingly
when I saw the sadness in his eyes.

"Dad, don't worry. Mira is there... She won't abandon you," I

assured him again but it didn't seem like that was his problem.
“I'm not worried about our well-being, son. I just really want you
here… and I can keep an eye on you to make sure you're eating well
and feeling okay.” I saw that she was about to cry again so I laughed
and stood up to hug her. She was now holding back her tears on my
shoulder.

“Dad… Don't worry about me. Worry more about yourself… Don't forget
to take your medicine and don't eat the things you're not allowed to eat.
I'm still strong and I can handle myself!” I smiled and patted his
shoulder. “I'll be okay…”

“Papa is worried because you don't say when you're not okay, Ate.” I
turned to see Ysha leaning against the door and peeking at us. “Like
before, we can't say anything because you don't talk about how you
feel…”

"I can handle those things on my own," I said.

“You don't have to face it alone.” Mira, who had just arrived, joined in, carrying
another suitcase that I had asked her to pick up downstairs. “We watched and
experienced how you were broken, healed, and broken again… But we're happy
because it seems like you're not giving up on getting better again.”

“Be strong, Ate,” Aidan said.

I am moved to tears by what I hear. I am so happy that they see me

this way. They don't see me as a weak person. I can really do
everything for them... and now, for myself too. I love my family very
much. I will never regret all the sacrifices I made for them.

They grew up as great individuals. I can't help but be proud of them

and myself. I practically raised them, along with my dad. It wasn't
easy for me to step into their lives at such a young age. Nothing has
been easy since Mama lost her mind. I just… had no choice but to
grow up quicker than other kids.
Since I knew, from the beginning, that I was going back to Spain, it was
easy for me to pack. I'm not leaving yet, but it's better to have my
things ready because Luna and I have already prepared another
farewell party for me. We're going to get together again before I leave.
Arkin will be there. There's no reason why he can't be there.

“Where are we going? Why do we have to dress like this?” Luna dragged
me out of our house while I adjusted my gray necktie. I was wearing a
white blouse tucked into my gray corporate skirt and black closed heels.
She was wearing the same, as were Yanna and Kierra because that was
the dress code.

“That's enough!” he replied to me as he got into the car. He

would drive to wherever it was.

“Hi, Via! Are you ready for the party?” Kierra asked me with a smile.
That smile only made me more nervous. They're not taking me to a
place with dancing, are they? This isn't a bridal shower! I'm already
nervous because of what happened at Yanna's bridal shower!

I just stared outside as the car drove by. I gradually noticed that what
we were passing through looked familiar. I turned to Luna to confirm
if my thoughts were correct but she just smiled.

“We're here!” He stopped the car on the side of the road, near the gate of
Valeria High. It was Sunday so there was no one there except the guard.

“Why…” I immediately looked at what I was wearing. I immediately understood

why the dress code was like this!

I don't know what I'm going to feel. Just by standing in front of the gate
brought back so many memories. Coming in, coming home, hanging out at the
fishball-an with them…

“Hey! We’re here!” We turned to the other side of the road where Yanna,
Sevi, and Arkin were. They were eating fishballs there. Tomorrow
They are now, huh?! Yanna's blouse is open and you can see the black tank
top inside. Sevi and Arkin are wearing white polos and gray slacks while
their mouths are full of food.

“You took so long!” Sevi complained. “My hair was already white before you
arrived!”

“It doesn't look like it, sir. It still looks black…” Arkin said innocently,
holding Sevi's hair to see if it was white. Sevi immediately slapped his
hand away to stop him from touching her.

“Let's go inside. You're taking it slow!” said Kierra, who had entered
the gate first. “Hello, Kuya!”

I don't know the guard anymore but Kierra seems to know him because this is their
school. When we entered the gate, I was immediately surprised because so many
things had changed. It had new paint but apart from that, many other things had
been added like a bigger stage in the middle, more rooms, there was also a balcony
on the second floor but it was blocked by glass. The look became more modern but
the memories were still there.

“You idiot, Sevi, that's where you and Yanna kissed, oh!” Luna pointed to the room on
the second floor and laughed out loud.

"What if I slapped you in the mouth?" Yanna replied.

“Luna, don't you hate yourself? Doesn't anyone excite you? Are you unlucky
in love? Don't you have anything else to do with your life?” Sevi also
retorted.

"No, why?" Luna replied arrogantly.

“Deserve.” Sevi glared and Luna shot at her. She had to catch up with
Sevi because she ran away like a child.

“Via, music club!” Arkin grabbed my wrist and pulled me towards the
Music room. When we opened it, I was also amazed.
we because some things have changed. There are also more instruments
there. “Hala, there's a piano! Naks, the music club has a lot of funds, ah!”

He sat there at the piano and played the song I sang at our bonfire.
“And when I hold you in my arms, I promise you…” he sang.

I sat down on the side and picked up the violin. I remembered how he
used to teach Naya the violin. I wanted to learn too but because I was
so afraid of music at the time, I couldn't ask Arkin if he could teach me
too.

“I was jealous of Naya before,” I told Arkin, causing him to stop

playing the piano. “But I ignored it… He wasn’t jealous… It was like… I
just didn’t like that you chose to be with him over me. It’s just petty…
It’s funny.”

“Via, maybe you're forgetting that you're the one pushing me towards Naya… I
don't like that person.” He scratched his head. “You're the one I want to be my
prom partner, but you pushed me towards someone else right away, before I even
asked you.”

“You have a way of holding grudges, Kino.” I shook my head at him.

“Me too!” He let out a sigh in disbelief.

I heard Kierra and I were looking for us, so we left the Music room to
follow them to the back. When we passed the back of the building,
Yanna stopped and laughed out loud.

“Isn't your ex's here? What was his name then?” Yanna asked Luna.

“Huh? What are you saying? I didn't have an ex in high school!” Luna is in
complete denial because she's ashamed of her ex.

“Lance,” Kierra replied. “He would have almost gone to hell if Arkin
had stayed with him that day!”
"That idiot, don't let him show up even in my dreams! I'll definitely kill
him!" Arkin said angrily, remembering what happened before.

“It looks like the person with him almost went to hell because of Yanna,” I also
thought. I was really nervous because of Yanna! I thought we were all going
to the office. It's a good thing the man ran away from her because something
else might have happened to her.

When we got to the cafeteria, I immediately thought it was a shame that Sam
wasn't here today. I remembered how he and Yanna had fought here. I didn't
know them at the time so I didn't care.

“Gagi, Yanna, you fooled Sam before, oh!” Sevi pulled Arkin's necktie,
causing him to choke and cough.

“Oh my, you're so cute!” Arkin immediately pushed him away while grabbing his neck. “You
were the one who was so good at getting spanked in high school, huh! You're such an
animal!”

“Now, it feels like one of them dies when they are separated,” Kierra
said. “They can’t be separated anymore, eh. It’s just like Via and
Arkin.”

“Via's is different. The two of them always have their own world,”
Yanna defended. “And Arkin obviously likes someone else. Via is
dead, so I feel sorry for her, eh.” She pointed at Kino.

“Via rejected him during high school-Hmm!” Arkin immediately

covered Sevi's mouth but Luna and he immediately caught it and
laughed loudly. Arkin frowned and removed his hand.

“Deserve it,” said Yanna.

“You lunatics!” Arkin said angrily.

When we got hot, we went to the library and turned on the air conditioner.
Yanna sat on the floor and leaned her back against the bookshelf so
We sat there to cool off. The aisle was cramped but we managed to
fit ourselves in. I remembered how we sat here when Yanna was
crying.

Samantha called us so Kierra put her phone aside so we could all

see. Sam even showed us through the video call that she was also
wearing a white blouse and gray skirt.

“I miss you, guys! I miss that place too!” he said when he noticed we were
in the library. “Where I always find my girl crying…”

“Time flies,” said Yanna.

“That's right, the line looks like a train,” Sevi immediately sang.

"Oh, why, Sevi? Are you still in high school?" Luna argued.

“Luna, you want to take me back to the time when I still liked you.
Move on, please…” Sevi said, pretending to be sad. “I feel sorry for
you because it seems like no one likes you anymore…”

“Who's the one who hasn't dated anyone since the breakup?” Luna immediately
retorted.

“It's a choice.” Sevi pressed her palms together and closed her eyes. “I will be
single forever!”

"But when he comes back, sure," Arkin said, laughing, teasing.

“When I come back…” Sevi nodded and closed her eyes again, her palms still
pressed together. “Welcome to my life!”

We immediately laughed at him for what he said. I even covered my mouth

because for some reason, the atmosphere of the library, I feel like we need
to be quiet even though we are the only people here. It's funny because
we're still whispering as if someone is going to scold us here.
“I hope everyone comes back, sir,” Arkin joked. They all looked at
me and laughed at me.

“That'll come back! When someone else gets married here, you have to come back,
Via!” Luna said. “Who's going to get married next? I don't have a boyfriend so it's
not me!”

"Oh, how I wish I could be the next..." Sam said, feeling sad.

“I have a personal grudge against your ex, Sam.” Arkin frowned and crossed
his arms over his chest.

"Okay, it's me, guys. I'm going to marry Hiro again." Yanna's smile was very
happy, she was obviously happy with life.

It just hit different that she was seated on the same spot as she did in high
school but she was finally smiling now. She was genuinely happy... and I
couldn't help but feel proud of her for everything she went through.

“Yanna… I'm glad you're happy.” Her smile disappeared upon hearing what I said.
The others also fell silent because the mood of the conversation suddenly
changed.

“Thank you, Via,” he said to me, smiling.

“A lot has changed for you, Yanna, hasn't it? But all of them were for the
better. I'm also so glad that you're happy and carefree now… No more
heavy feelings in your chest. No more tears, no more pain,” Kierra
genuinely stated. “Really one of the strongest women I know. So proud of
you!”

“Kierra…” Yanna took Ke’s hand and squeezed it gently. “Don’t

worry… You’re also one of the strongest people I know. You’ve been
through a lot… We’re also very proud of you. You’re still fighting until
now.”

"Oh, come on, girls! You really had to do that when I'm miles away?! I want to
be there too! Now, I feel like crying!" Sam complained. Snort more
he said as tears formed in the corners of his eyes. "Just... always remember
that you may often be misunderstood... But what matters the most is how the
people you truly know view you. I'm speaking especially for Via... They don't
know you at all. They don't know how strong you are. They don't know how
kind and caring you are as a person... but we know. As long as there is one
person who continues to believe in you, the light is not fully out yet."

"Sam, are you okay?" Sevi asked suddenly.

Sam fell silent but then smiled. “I've never been better! I just miss
you guys! I can't wait to go home!”

Sam is also planning to build a business in the Philippines, so I know he will

definitely come back here. Besides that, I feel like he has something else he
wants to go back to. Love will truly create or open roads for you to go back to
each other's arms again.

“I hope we can be complete again,” Luna said. “I guess we can only be complete
when someone actually gets married again! Hurry up, Sam!”

“Don't be like that, Luna… You might even be first,” I told her.

“I want a nephew,” Kierra also said.

"Guys, just chill! I don't have a boyfriend, I'm married and I have
children?! Wait for me to find one, okay?! We'll get there after 100
years!" Luna joked.

We chatted there for a while before they decided to write on my white blouse
again, like they did at the farewell party during high school graduation. I was the
only one leaving, so I was the only one to write on it.

I didn't read what they wrote until they dropped me off at the
corner of our house. I was surprised because Arkin also got off and
put on his facemask to walk with me home. I said
Because, I prefer to walk home so I can make the most of the way
back to our house since I'm leaving.

We walked silently in the dark. The only light for us was the
lamppost and the moon. He also kicked small stones while holding
them in his pocket, not speaking.

“Have you written on my blouse?” I asked her.

“Not yet. I'm still thinking about what to write.” He raised the marker he was
holding.

I already said it and it seems like something is missing. I didn't see him write
anything earlier. I'm really nervous because Sevi or Yanna might draw something
rude! I hope he doesn't write anything rude! I was even planning to take a picture.

“You're happy, Via, aren't you?” he asked me seriously as we

continued walking. I got ahead of him and stopped in front of him
to squeeze his cheek.

“Of course.” I let go of him and smiled. “Is that you? How are you?
Has anyone asked you this in the past few days or weeks?”

He also squeezed both of my cheeks. “Of course. Don't worry about

me. Sevi will ask first.”

“He will take care of you while I'm away.” I nodded, feeling reassured. “It's
good to know that there is someone who will not leave you no matter
what.”

“I wish it was you…” he said softly before letting go of me. He also

smiled at me sparingly but it reached his eyes. “But it's okay! I can
love you no matter how far away you are!”

"Will you still love me?" I frowned at him.

"When did I not love you, Via?"

The smile on my face disappeared and my feelings of sadness were replaced
by sadness. Arkin… loved me the way I wanted to be loved. He was the
person who introduced true love to me, a never-ending love… Something I
would cherish my whole life. Even for once, he never made me feel so
unloved. All kinds of love, he made me feel that… that's why it was so hard to
leave him.

Arkin's love was the greatest among all. His love was unconditional. He loved
me even after I rejected him. He still loved me even when he knew I couldn't
bring his love back... and loved me before I said I loved him too.

No matter what, he never stopped loving me. I feel sad that I have to
leave him again. I know it hurts him but he says he is happy for me.
He is happy when I am happy.

“I've thought of something…” He turned me away from him and wrote

on the back of my blouse. I tried to feel what it was but I couldn't
figure it out either.

After that, we walked again and he dropped me off in front of the

house. “I'll see you tomorrow…” I told him.

"Yes... This time, I can finally see you off at the airport." He gave my head a
pat before he walked away.

As soon as I got home, I took a shower and changed my clothes. I put

my blouse on my bed to read the messages they left for me.

'I love you, my Via! :( - Luna ganda'

'be careful there, don't be stupid - Y'

'Take care of your body and mental health! - Ke'

'yee that will come back hehe be careful with your strength - pinakapogi'

I knew immediately who it was from. When I looked at the one with
the biggest letter on the back, I knew it was Arkin's. I also knew
his letter.

'Promise, I won't let you go.'

I wiped the tears from my eyes. I loved my friends so much. They

became my strength when I was weak. Arkin's last line was the one
that pierced my heart. It was like he was saying that I shouldn't worry
because he will always hold my hand. He will always be there for me.
When I fall, he will pull me back. He made me feel so safe once more.

It would have been okay, but then I saw his letter downstairs.

'- more pogi than the most pogi lul your sevi'

My tears retreated and I just folded my blouse. That one never

lets me lose. You'd think they were still children competing with
each other!

Before I went to bed, I reorganized my things. I also checked the

flight details. That was the last time I slept in that room. I was very
sad when I woke up the next day because Papa greeted me with
breakfast.

“Eat first… You'll be hungry on the flight,” Papa told me. He

actually cooked me so much food that I felt like I could finish it
all.

“Thank you, Papa…” My voice cracked at the end because I was crying.
Just thinking about leaving them again, it hurts me. I will be separated
from my family again.

“Son! Don't cry because I'll cry too! That'll be later when you leave!”
Papa complained to me.

I felt like an idiot crying while eating breakfast. When my siblings

came downstairs, I cried even more. Mira hugged me while
laughing. They were laughing at me for crying.
"Sister, you're crying even louder now than when you first left," Aidan
said.

“You're really cute, Aidan,” I told him, crying. “But… Be careful,

okay? Take care of Papa and each other. If there's a problem, just
call me… If you need anything, message me. Those medicines and
vitamins, ah… Don't forget.”

"There you go, he's giving orders," said Ysha.

They even gave me a ride and tried to cheer me up before I left. I

hugged them tightly when Luna and I picked me up in front of the
house. My family wouldn't take me to the airport because I might just
cry.

I didn't talk on the way to the airport. Sevi and Arkin were also in a different car.
Yanna had already gone there first because she had work to do. She said it was
better for her to be early.

Sevi and Arkin helped me unload my luggage when we got there. They
only went outside because they didn't have boarding passes, so we said
goodbye to each other there.

“You're going to write, huh,” Sevi said to me after hugging me, so I hit her on the
chest.

“Take care, Via! Call me when you get there!” Kierra told me.

“Bye bye, Via ko…” Luna hugged me tightly again. I could barely
breathe! I think my bones were broken from that hug.

“Oh, Arkin, come on. Say goodbye to your sweetheart.” Sevi pushed
Arkin away. “Say goodbye before you cry.”

"Stupid." Arkin glared at him before turning to face me.

I opened my arms so he could hug me. He came over and hugged

me tightly. I hugged him back, feeling his warmth. I could never
feel this with any other man but him. I know that for myself.

“Until our music fades again… Good bye, Via… I love you,” he whispered to
me.

“Bye, Arkin. Thank you for everything. I will always remain as your
number one supporter,” I also said before releasing him.

I dragged my suitcase inside and waved to them before they disappeared

from my sight. When I reached the boarding area, I was surprised and
felt a poke in my waist.

“Are you boarding?” Yanna asked me. She was already wearing her airline
uniform.

“Don't tell me you took the business class seat from me again…” I
said to him. When I saw his smile, I fell on my forehead. “Yanna!”

“Why me?! It's Hiro!” he defended himself.

I thought that was the end of it, but when I got on the plane, I
realized that she was one of the flight attendants on my flight! I was
in shock again. Who is this woman? Good thing Hiro wasn't the pilot.

“I didn't get to say goodbye to Avi,” I said when Yanna came over to my side.

"Just call me when you land," he replied while arranging the luggage
in the compartment.

I just slept the whole flight and woke up every time I ate. Time seemed
to fly by when we arrived in Spain. Yanna was waiting at the door
before I got off the plane.

“Pst.” I was surprised when I turned around, Yanna hugged me and

patted my shoulder. “Just call me if you need anything… or if you’re not
okay… or even if you’re okay. Be careful here.”
“Thank you, Yanna…” I hugged her too.

I was happy and before I got off the plane, I was with a friend. She never
failed to make me feel that she was beside me, even before then.

“Miss Diaz!”

And I was back to work again after 2 months. I was struggling again with
the plates I was carrying while walking back to the office.

“Ah… This is not a time to be late, Mateo…” I frowned when I realized

he was going to be late again to submit his work.

“Acepte mis disculpas, por favor, señorita!” he apologized while

holding his work. He explained that he had repeated it because it
was broken while he was walking to school. I just sighed and
accepted it before entering the office. “Gracias! Gracias!”

The plates on my table are already a handful. Add to that the

designs I need for my projects here in Spain. Every day, I'm soaked
in work... but that's for the best because I don't have time to think
about other things. Time flies when you have so much to do.

That was my daily routine. Every lunch, I would call Papa to see
how he was.

[Are you okay there? Are you eating well?] Mira asked me as if I were
her mother.

“Yes… I mean, yes! Yes, Ma'am.” Sometimes I really forget to switch

languages because I'm so used to talking to someone else. “Is that you?
How are you?”

Whenever I go home, I'm with my friends. Sometimes I'll hang

out at a nearby park, carrying my guitar.
I find it relaxing that way. The view in front of me is so beautiful, especially
when the sun goes down.

“A golden landscape… under the sky…” I sang while playing the

guitar. I must have been singing that for days. I can't help it… That's
how it is when I miss my friends and… him.

I'm also trying to write a song again. I'm biting the cap of my ballpoint pen as
I write in my notebook. I'm still standing on the train and my notebook is
leaning against the metal pole in the middle. I'm carrying my guitar on my
back.

“Every cry of melody…” I whispered as I wrote.

I also have regular appointments with my therapist here in Spain who was
referred to me by the doctor Sam introduced me to. I am happy and feel at
ease there. Everyday became a chance for me to get better.

I felt lighter and lighter. I was letting out my grievances… my

sadness… my problems. I was slowly healing on the inside.

The following week, after my work at the firm, I met up with my

friends. They heard about the issue in the Philippines because they
are Arkin fans, so I was in the hot seat again. I don't know how I'm
going to explain it to them!

“Huh, I didn't even know that was your ex! It's embarrassing and I'm
even showing off!” Pauline said while we were eating.

“Good for you, Pauline… I told you, I feel like he has a girlfriend,
huh!” Elena laughed.

“Wait… Wait… Hello, Via?! Are you back together?!” Isabel, who is also a fan
of Arkin, said excitedly. It's a good thing they're not mad at me.

“No… I came home here too, eh.” I drank my shake.

“Don't talk about that. Via might be uncomfortable,” Gab defended
me.

I said it was okay so Pauline didn't stop. She told me she was still a
fan of Arkin but she also liked us. She really became a fangirl. She
didn't stop me until I was walking home to my apartment.

“I really hope I can see him up close again! He's really

handsome, isn't he, Via?!” Pau shook me.

“Yes, that's right…” I said as I bent down and picked up my key because I was close
to the apartment.

“When will he be performing here again? Do you know?! I want to

meet him-”

I was stopped in my tracks as Pauline suddenly screamed. I dropped

my keys on the floor and picked them up. As I straightened up, my
lips parted in shock.

Am I dreaming?

“Arkin?” I couldn't speak properly. My heart felt like it stopped

beating when I saw him waiting in front of my apartment.

“Via!” She happily ran to me and hugged me.

I'm still confused about what happened because we haven't talked

much since I came back to Spain. If we do talk, it's just to say hello
and then nothing more.

“Huh? Why… Why do you have a suitcase?” I asked in surprise when I saw
the things he was carrying.

He let go of me and grinned. “I'm going to live in Spain now!”

___________________________________________________ ___________________

:)

50 [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

“What?! What are you talking about?! Why are you here?!”

She screamed when I hit her on the arm and stepped back to avoid my
push. She even dodged me and hid against the wall near the fire exit like a
scolded puppy. It was only then that I remembered that Pauline was with
me when she sat on the floor, covering her mouth.

“Pau, stand up!” I pulled his wrist to get him to stand up but his
knees were weak. “Then let's talk. Go home first.”

I dragged Arkin and his suitcase into my apartment because we

couldn't talk outside. I made him sit on the sofa and stood in front of
him with both arms crossed over his chest.

"Why are you staying here? First of all... ¿Hablas español? No. No sabe lo
que está haciendo! Sube el taxi y ve a casa ahora mismo. Es mejor si no te
quedas aquí!" I preached to him one after another.

When I noticed that he was staring at me with his lips parted, I stopped
speaking. I slapped my forehead when I realized that I had been
speaking Spanish in front of him for a long time.

“See? You don't know Spanish and yet you're going to live here? Besides… Why
didn't you tell me beforehand? You're just being so surprised all of a sudden!
Also… Don't you still have a school, huh?!” I continued my sermon.

He scratched one of his ears and simply covered it while looking

away. I shook my head at him and went to the kitchen to drink some
water and calm myself down. When I came back, he was already
leaning there as if it were his home.
“Hello,” he greeted me again and smiled. “Okay, before you get angry… I
have school but it's semester break now! I'll live here for a month and I'll go
home at the end of January to finish my semester. Just chill!”

“You don't make it clear right away.” I threw the small pillow at him
and he laughed when he caught it.

“No, but after I graduate, I'll still live here. I'm still getting my paperwork
in order,” he told me seriously.

“And why are you living here, huh?” I raised an eyebrow at him.

“Because you live here?” He also raised his eyebrows at me as if

to say 'Is it obvious?'

Seriously, unbelievable! What was this guy thinking and suddenly

followed him? Ever since I left, I never thought he would do this! That
he would follow me. I thought that would be the end of us both but…
What a shame!

“And how's your job, huh?” I raised an eyebrow at him.

“I'm going to work here?” he replied as if it were so simple! “I know

some directors here, Via. I'll work with them first to gain experience
and then… little by little! Don't worry! I know what I'm doing!”

“Really?” I laughed sarcastically. “It doesn’t seem like it, Arkin. It’s
like you just woke up one day and realized you missed me so
follow this if you can make a decision!”

“Hala, how did you know?” he asked innocently, making me fall on my forehead. He
was so shocked that he admitted that that was what happened!

Jusko, Arkin is more stressful than my students! What am I going to do with

this guy? Where did he come from, huh? If he had been so dramatic when I
left, I think it would be a long time before we met again!
“So you're spending Christmas here?” My eyes widened when I realized what he had said
earlier. It was already December and he said he would be staying here.

“Yes! We're going to spend Christmas here!” He was so happy. He was such a simple person!

“And where will you live, huh?”

“Here!” He looked around and stood up, his suitcase in his hand. “Do you
have an extra room? Go ahead, Via… I didn't book a hotel… I didn't think
about that, ah.”

Wait… How did he find out about my apartment?! I'm going to call the police,
huh! Stalker! Who said that? Did I mention that before? Ah, wait…

“Did Papa tell you where I live, huh?!” I pinched his waist so he
moved away from me.

“Oh my, Avianna! Yes! We asked your aunt! It was a surprise, wasn't it? Why
did I have to ask you myself!” she complained to me. “Well, aren't you
surprised?!”

Surprise?! This is not the kind of surprise I expected in my life! I

know there's nothing I can do because I can't just throw him out
and let him wander around on the street because it's cold. What a
pity!

“I don’t have an extra room,” I said because my apartment was small.

“So you’ll sleep on the sofa.”

“How stingy! No bed?” Oh my! This idiot even made a request. Larkin
Sanchez's face must be getting thicker.

“Stay at a hotel if you want.” I shook his head and went into my room to get
some clothes. I'm going to take a shower first and I'm coming from
outside. Arkin is out there.

There's a Christmas break at our school so I don't have to go to school

for the next few days. Auntie is there to take care of me.
the ones the students passed. That's it, at work at the firm, I still
have to visit the sites.

After I took a shower, I saw Arkin talking to someone on the phone and standing
there in the kitchen. I guess it was his mom because I heard her call. I took my
jacket to buy something to eat because I hadn't done the grocery shopping yet.

"Where are you going?" he asked and hung up the phone.

“I'm going to buy food outside,” I answered him.

“I'm coming! Wait!” He ran to his suitcase and opened it to get his coat
and scarf because it was cold outside. Before he could wrap them
properly, he walked out.

I closed the door and faced him to adjust his scarf around his neck. He
paused for a moment, looking at me in amazement as I did so. When I
raised an eyebrow at him, he looked away and turned his back on me to
walk away as if he knew where he was going.

“Good night! I order…” I looked at the menu before nodding at Arkin. “What
about you?” He took so long to answer that I smiled at the vendor again.
“Ah… Can you give us one more minute, please? Thank you.”

“I don't understand.” Arkin pointed to the menu and scratched his

head. “Anything. Just whatever looks good.”

I just took the same food as mine and we waited outside because
there was no room inside. I just ordered pasta which I was sure he
would like. While we were standing on the side of the road, I put my
hands inside my jacket because it was cold.

“The truth is, Larkin… Why are you here?” I asked him and leaned
against the lamp post.
“Hmm… For the whole month, I'll convince you to work for me!” He
smiled at me. “And go to my concert! It will be held this January! I think
it's my last concert so I want you to come…”

“Last concert?” I frowned.

"I'm going to focus on being a director for now. It's not my last concert of a
lifetime because I still want to sing but it seems like it's going to be a long time
before the next one... I'm also going to retire from taking on movie or teleserye
projects."

“And you’re here to convince me?” I laughed at him and shook my head.
“I’m telling you right now… No. I’m not going back to the Philippines. I
just got here!”

“Hep!” He covered my mouth. “Don’t give me an answer yet! I still

have one month, Via!”

I removed the cover from my mouth because the waiter had already
called me, carrying our paper bag. I thanked him and walked back to
the apartment while Arkin followed me.

“Delicious, ah! Tastes like Spain!” Arkin said as we ate at the dining
table.

Luckily, I always clean the apartment when I wake up in the morning

so the place looks neat. It's a shame, but this guy doesn't seem to
care either.

After we ate, he took a shower and came to me on the sofa. I took my

guitar from the side and strummed because it was too quiet. He took
something from his suitcase before sitting next to me.

“Where did you get that?!” I asked in surprise when I saw the painting I
did for our anniversary. I tried to reach for it but he pushed it away from
me. I just realized that I didn't get the chance to give it to him.
The painting where we watch the sunset at the Sunken Garden with
our backs turned and he holds a guitar. That was the day he sang to
me the song he wrote. Golden View. It's been a long time.

“You didn't even give this to me…” He even read the note on the back
of the canvas! “Happy anniversary, my love… I hope-”

“One,” I threatened him, causing him to immediately stop and laugh at me. He placed it on
the table and leaned it against the vase so that it was standing and I could see it.

Looking at the painting brought so many memories back. At that time… I

really did not know what to say. I was hoping not to get a chance to ruin
our friendship. I tried to protect our friendship well because I didn't want
him to disappear from my life but things turned out differently. For once, I
was ready to risk our friendship just to get that assurance.

It turned out worse than expected. I thought everything would

really change for us. I thought we were over but here this guy is in
front of me again!

“How are you holding up?” he suddenly asked me while smiling

sparingly.

My face turned serious and I looked away from him. “I'm doing so
well,” I answered him truthfully. “I feel like I'm close to achieving what
I want.”

“What do you want?”

“Well… I'm afraid of people… of crowds. What I want is to overcome

that fear of mine. I really want to go to your concert, Kino… I'm afraid
I might go back to square one. I might not be able to do it… But… I'm
trying… I know for myself when I'll be ready.”
He stared at me for a long time before his smile grew and he ruffled
my hair, laughing. Then he also arranged it and touched my cheek.

"I'm not in a hurry... You can say when you want. Whatever decision
you give me, I'll accept it... but you decide next month."

He took the guitar from me and leaned back on the sofa. He stared
up at the ceiling as he played the guitar and sang whatever came to
mind. I just listened while working on my laptop.

The next day, I almost fainted when I saw a man sleeping on the sofa!
I'm not used to him being here!

I have to go to work but I don't want to wake him up so I just left a

note in the fridge. I also cooked him breakfast before I went to the
site. I'm gone all day so I don't know what Arkin will do there.

“Why are you going home so early, Via?” my aunt asked when I returned to the
firm. I just had a quick coffee there after the meeting and then I picked up my
things again. “You used to work overtime, huh…”

“Ah… I just have somewhere to go,” I replied to him.

“Yes, by the way… Via… If you want to quit your job and just stay in
the Philippines, you can tell me. I know a lot of people there and I
can recommend you to a few firms. You don't have to work for me
anymore,” he told me calmly.

“Ah… I’ll be here for now.”

I'm not ready to go back to square one. I know that if I change jobs, it'll be
a new company, new people, environment, bosses, projects... I don't know
if I'll be able to socialize with others, especially since Arkin and I have a very
close relationship in the Philippines.
When I got back to the apartment, I didn't see Arkin. It seemed like he went
out for a while. “He went out?!” I asked myself in surprise when I realized
that.

I just put down my stuff and walked back outside to look for that guy!
I saw he left his phone on the table so I was worried! He doesn't
speak Spanish and he's not familiar with the place! Maybe something
happened there!

I've been searching everywhere for him. I was out of breath and
holding my knees when I saw the familiar man on the side of the
road, buying a bocadillo.

“Who!” I said annoyed as I walked closer. “I’ve been looking for you
for a while!”

“Via, I'm glad you found me!” And she seemed happy again. “Do you want
one?” She offered me the sandwich but I shook my head at her.

“Why do you go out and leave your phone behind, huh?”

He was fidgeting with his pants and seemed to have just realized that he
hadn't brought his phone. He sat down on his knees and looked around.

“Pucha, is that true?! It's a good thing you found me! I don't know the
way back!” I saw the panic in his eyes. What am I going to do with this
man?

“I wish you had waited for me before you went out,” I said as we
walked. He followed me while eating the sandwich he bought.

“It's so boring. I'm not doing anything there. That's cool, Via! I can
go out without anyone coming near me! I can buy street food. I
don't have a face covering, oh. Look!” He stopped in front of me
and showed me his face.
I felt bad and happy at the same time. I felt bad that he could feel happiness
by just walking outside with no one following him. He looked so at peace with
it. It seemed like he was just walking out again without covering his face. It
was the only time he felt free.

He's still well-known here, but they wouldn't notice unless they
looked closely. No one expected Arkin to be here in Spain. They'd
think he just looked alike.

“Is that why you want to live abroad?” I asked him. I felt like I wasn't
the only reason he chose to live here. I just added to his decision-
making process.

“Hmm, yes. It's nice to walk outside without worrying.” He

shrugged at me. “I told you… I want to work behind the cameras
now. I want my privacy back even though it seems impossible.”

“And why here?”

"Because you're here," he replied simply again.

That's how our daily routine became. I would go to work while he was still asleep
and while I wasn't there, he would wander around outside by himself, enjoying
his freedom. When I came home, sometimes he would bring something with him.
He would also tell us stories about his experiences outside.

“I met a grandma downstairs, the owner of the flower shop. She

speaks English well. She taught me Spanish. Ah… La florería…”

“Flower shop. What else?” I asked while arranging the groceries.

“Good morning. Good afternoon. Good night,” he said as

greetings. I laughed as I listened to him.

“What else?” He was entertaining to listen to. He was like a kid who had
discovered something and couldn't stop repeating it over and over again. His
accent… Well, he will improve soon. “What else is natural about you?”
“You look very beautiful,” he said seriously while staring at me.

I froze and the apple I was holding fell. I cleared my throat and let
out a fake cough to ease the awkwardness. He just said I looked
beautiful! It was so random! I felt my cheeks heat up. I held it there.

“Help me here,” I just said to him. He was smiling now because he

saw my reaction to what he said.

Every time I come home from work, he plays the new words he's
learned for me. I also teach him how to pronounce them properly. I'm
slowly getting used to him being in my apartment.

I also told my therapist about him and she asked what I was feeling
because I was surrounded by his presence. Surprisingly, I said I…
liked it. I never felt alone now. I used to be lonely so I often spent
time outside. Now, I go home early. Sometimes, I go for a walk
outside with him, especially when it's not so cold.

He was still bringing me comfort, no matter what. The season was cold
but I felt warm with Arkin's presence. I'm glad he followed me here and
accompanied me even though he didn't have to.

As soon as I entered my apartment from work, I immediately

stepped back because a bouquet appeared in front of me. Arkin put
it down and smiled at me.

“What is this for?” I asked her before taking the bouquet.

The arrangement and the flowers were so beautiful.

"Nothing. Do I need a special occasion to give you flowers?" He raised an

eyebrow at me and smirked. "They are called 'just because' flowers. I have no
reason to give them. I just want to… just because."

“Thank you…” I said shyly. She probably bought this at the flower shop
downstairs. They were friends with the old salesman there, eh. It's always
He hangs out there and helps carry the burns.

Every time I came home, he must have been busy with something new
because the next day, I found him doing something on the sofa. He was
learning how to knit. He said he was taught by another old owner of the
clothing store across the street from the apartment. Apparently, everyone
here was friends with Arkin.

"Oh..." He looked at me. "Te quedan muy bien esas glasses."

I was surprised again by what he said. He said I looked good in my

glasses. I turned my back on him and hurried into my room. I leaned
against the door while catching my breath. I touched my hot cheek
again.

“Where did he learn that?” I whispered to myself. I think I'm going

crazy! Every day he gives me different compliments. Even Spanish. It
seems like that's all he wants to learn.

The next day, I came home after jogging outside. I brought him
breakfast before I went to work, but he was already awake.

“Wow, that shirt looks really good on you.” He complimented my shirt now. He
said I looked very good on it. It was still fitted so I shook my head at him.

"Eat your breakfast." I put the paper bag on the table. "Solo has
estado estudiando español dos semanas, pero hablas muy bien," I
told him.

“Huh?” he asked me confused. “Slowly, please…”

“I said, you've only been learning Spanish for about two weeks but
you're already speaking it well,” I explained. “That's it, I guess you're
just learning the basics.”
He laughed at me and lay back down on the sofa. “Eres muy divertido, mi amor,” he
said in a sexy accent.

I was funny? And wait… did he just call me love? I bit my lower lip and
turned my back against him, hiding my face. He really had his own way
of making me feel flustered. Every time he did that I didn't know what
to do.

“Blushing, eh?” he teased. “¿Por qué? ¿Me amas?” Why? Do you love
me?

Why does he already know so much? I know he was a fast-learner

before, so it wouldn't be difficult for him to adjust, but those words, why
does he already know them?! Or maybe those are the things he really
wants to learn?

I didn't answer so he let out an even more annoying laugh. The following
week it was Christmas so we went out to celebrate. The restaurants were
full but he was able to make reservations for us because he had already
made friends with the owner! He also said he spoke English well.

It was a formal dinner so I was wearing a white satin dress and the
knitted scarf he made for me underneath the coat. I also put on a bun
and wore heels so I could look good. We had a wine 'date.' He said it
was a date, eh.

“I have a gift for you,” he told me. “But it’s in your apartment.”

“I thought there would be no gifts this Christmas?” I asked him. If I had known, I
would have prepared something. How deceitful!

"Give it to me. You don't have to give me anything." The side of his lips rose
up before raising his wine glass. "Cheers? Merry Christmas, mi amor."

“Merry Christmas,” I said before clinking our glasses together.

When we got home, he even covered my eyes so that his gift
would be a surprise! I was so shocked because he wasn't
supporting me properly! This guy is really crazy.

“Ta-da!” he said excitedly as he removed his hands from my eyes.

My lips parted when I saw a guitar case on the sofa. It was still
wrapped in ribbon. I immediately went over and opened it.

“Arkin…” I said in disbelief when I saw the new guitar. It was a new
beige-colored guitar with my name engraved at the bottom of the
wood. VIA.

“It's time to let go of the past, Via…” He looked at my old guitar. It was
Mom's guitar that I still use and take care of. “You can use this for your
future works.”

I grabbed the guitar and placed it on my leg. I adjusted the tone before I played
it. The first strum felt so surreal. It was beautiful.

“Thank you…” I felt like I was going to cry when I looked up at him. I was
sitting and he was standing in front of me.

"I thought you wouldn't accept it. Phew..." He breathed a sigh of relief
and held his chest.

“I also have a gift for you…”

His eyes widened in surprise because he wasn't expecting that. I put

the guitar aside and stood up to get something from my room. When I
returned, I showed him the paper I was holding.

“Via?!” He couldn't believe it either when he saw my flight details.

"I'm going to attend your concert," I confirmed to him. "And... I want

to write music for you, Arkin."

He stared at me for a long time before walking quickly towards me.

He was so fast that I almost fell back because he suddenly
He kissed me while holding my face. I closed my eyes and wrapped
my arms around his neck, accepting his kiss.

“Are you sure?” he asked me again. “Less than a month.”

“I know when I'm ready, Arkin,” I said with a smile before kissing his
cheek. “And I'm ready now.”

He hugged me tightly and stroked my hair. I never thought that this

day would come but I hoped… I really hoped for it.

"En caso de que te lo estes preguntando... yo también te quiero..." I

whispered to him.

“Huh?” He let go of me, confused by what I said. “I understood a

few… You talk so fast, Via. What was that?”

"In case you're wondering... I love you too," I repeated.

I heard her gasp before she backed away from me, unable to
believe it. She covered her mouth again with both hands now as
she looked around, restless and wanting to scream.

“Really?!” he asked me again. When I nodded, he cursed again. “Shit…

Merry Christmas! Holy…” He couldn't finish what he was about to say.

And then I just found myself on a plane with him. I was looking out
as the plane landed in the Philippines. I had just left and here I am
again.

“My tears are useless, Via! You're going home too!” Luna told me. I went out
first because I knew there were people waiting for Arkin. It didn't seem like
they noticed me so that was a good thing.

“I'll be back after the concert… I still have work to do,” I told him.
“You have so much money. You go back and forth to Spain,” Sevi teased
me.

“Arkin paid because he insisted I come home here.” I shook my head

and put the case of my new guitar in the back of the car.

“Deserve it,” Kierra said. “We still missed you, huh.”

Arkin and I had separate cars because he was in his van while I
was in Luna's car. Yanna was away and had a flight but she
would follow us.

“Aunt Via!”

My smile grew when I saw Avi running towards me. Luna and I
hung out at our house first, so Yanna followed suit. I didn't
expect her to bring Avi!

“Avi!” I hugged her tightly and stroked her hair. “I missed you.”

“Via!” Arkin also ran to me. He had just arrived and had already snatched
me from Avi to hug me. “I missed you too!”

I frowned at him and pushed him because I was talking to that child! He
kept yelling! Sevi and I laughed at him and said he deserved to be
pushed. He kept sniffing and hugging me from behind while I was
talking to the child.

“Rubbish, oy!” Yanna complained. “You guys are so close to each other again!
Respect for the single! It's not me, but okay.”

“Thank you, Yanna. You said something nice too,” Sevi said.

"You look like shit, Sevi," Yanna interrupted.

As Arkin's concert got closer and closer, the anxiety I felt grew worse
and worse... but I had no intention of backing down.
I know my family and friends will never leave me no matter what
happens. Just by having them beside me was enough to give me
strength.

“Are you sure about this?” Arkin asked me on the very day of his
concert.

I nodded at him and kissed him on the forehead. “I'm more than sure. It's time
to face my fears.”

“I'm always so proud of you, okay?” He stroked my hair. “You can do

this… We can do this.”

I tapped my fingers on the vanity table while waiting. When the

concert started, I heard the loud screams from outside. I closed my
eyes and took a deep breath. I was alone in the dressing room to
calm myself. Arkin was not there because he had already gone to
the stage.

He also had guests over. I opened my eyes wide when I heard someone
knocking on the door but I calmed down when I saw who it was.

“Hi, how are you? Feeling good?” Clea asked before sitting next to me.

“It's okay… I just get nervous whenever I hear those screams,” I told
him.

When he noticed that I had been tapping my fingers, he

grabbed my hand and squeezed it gently.

"I admire you as a person," he said to me with a smile. "You're a brave

woman. I'm rooting for you, your career, life, and relationship with Arkin. It
won't be full of rainbows but it won't be full of storms either. You guys are
made for each other. I witnessed that."

“Thank you, Clea…” I smiled at her too.

We turned to the door when Arkin came in, wiping his sweat. He was
about to change clothes, so Clea said goodbye and left.
I also stood up after Arkin changed and retouched. He was also
with his makeup artist.

“Are you okay, baby?” he asked me.

I nodded to him before we walked out. Security escorted us until

we reached the edge of the stage. I was holding a microphone on
my other hand.

I never felt so alive and free. This time, I will let go of my past. This will mark
the end of all the heartbreaks and suffering I went through. This will close the
wounds I had been trying to heal for years.

I could not call my progress fast or slow as I was moving forward on my own
pace. I just knew that I tried... and I wanted it to happen. I hoped for it.

"Let us all welcome, Larkin Sanchez and Avianna Diaz!"

I hoped to see another golden scenery with the man beside me... as I hoped for
a good tomorrow... and a good today... because this time, I will face my fears.

___________________________________________________ ___________________

EPILOGUE. Nov 8. 12 AM.

EPILOGUE [Golden Scenery of Tomorrow (U…)

"Where have you been, Arkin? Are you going to rest?"

I shook my head at my manager and said I had to visit someone before I

went home. I had just finished shooting and hadn't slept since yesterday
but I still had the energy to buy some food before I drove again.

“Brother Arkin! Yes! Thanks for the food!” Aidan was very happy when I arrived at
their house.
“You haven't had dinner yet, have you? Eat now. I brought food.” I
also called Mira and Ysha upstairs. Papa was already in the kitchen
serving a plate for me. “I'll go, Pa.”

Since Via left, I've been visiting her regularly to check on her family.
Keeping them safe and healthy became one of my priorities. I
wanted to take care of them just like how Via did. I know they're sad
because they lost their sister, so I'm trying to fill the hole she left in
her family.

She already left me... but I still wanted to fulfill my promise. I can't be by her
side anymore so I'll just stay with her family, the closest to her heart.

“Kuya Arkin, Aidan has been complaining for a while now. Teach him the
guitar,” Mira said. “Since Ate is not here, eh.”

“Brother Arkin is busy, Aidan! Don't add to it!” said Ysha.

“Yes, son… Just ask your classmates to teach you.” It's really Papa!
They're all very worried about my health.

“I'm fine! I have plenty of time!” Even though I don't. “I'll teach you,
Aidan. Where's your guitar?”

I was surprised when he went up and when he came back, he was

carrying Via's guitar. I didn't know he had left it behind. I grabbed the
guitar and said I'd borrow it first. I'll lend Aidan something else.

“Look, I'll do the washing up,” I said when I saw her clearing the
dishes.

“I'll go, Kuya,” he told me. “Go sleep in Ate's room first. You look very
tired. It's not safe to drive home when you're like that.”

I smiled at her before I nodded and went up to Via's room. Nothing

had changed when I entered. Her smell was all over the room,
which just made me miss her more. I sighed as I sat up in bed. I
could still see her doing her plates on her desk. I have so many
memories with her in this room.

I bent down when my phone fell to the floor. I even kicked the bed
so I stood up and knelt down and looked down to find my phone. I
frowned when I found a canvas. I pulled it and my phone out to see
what was painted on.

I threw myself on the bed when I saw our painting in the Sunken
Garden. I was sure it was us because that's what we were wearing
when I sang Gintuang Tanawin to him. I laughed sarcastically when I
read the note on the back.

Happy anniversary, my love.

I hope this isn't the last time I'll be saying or writing this. I know things
have been hard on you. It's probably hard to keep everything together.
It's also hard to hide our relationship. I know it's hard but let's hang in
there, please. I don't want to lose you.

We may have some (actually a lot) of misunderstandings, but know that

those will never make me love you less.

I'll stay with you whatever happens as your girlfriend, best friend, and
number one fan. I love you. Let's be strong together.

I shook my head and set the painting aside after reading the note. I
lay down on his bed and stared at the ceiling while holding back my
tears.

“I'll stay with you whatever happens?” I repeated and laughed again. “You're not
here now… You… left me here… alone.”

I want to be angry with Via. I want to cry. I want to never see her again
because she left me so suddenly. She left me without saying goodbye. She
left me after I had hoped that maybe it would still be possible… that
maybe it would be possible.
“You're cheating, Via,” I whispered, tears welling up in my eyes. “You remember
your promise, right? Why did you leave me?”

I brought the pain I was feeling all the way to Spain. I made several
requests and insistences to the management just so I could have a
concert there. Luckily it was fulfilled. I didn't know if I wanted to see
her or not… but I still brought the guitar with me. I don't know if I'll
find her. If not, that's my fate. We were not meant to see each other
again.

That was what I thought... because the moment I started singing Gintinuan
Tanawin again on stage, even after refusing to sing that song ever since we
broke up, my eyes met hers. I knew it was her. I could never forget those eyes...
that look.

She looked at me like she was in pain. She looked at me the same way she
looked when she wanted to break up. She was… looking at me like she was
determined not to see me ever again.

Her look was telling me that she wanted nothing to do with me... that she was
planning to leave again. She did.

After the concert, I knew I would be scolded but I ran out of the
venue, carrying my guitar behind me. No one noticed me and I was
too busy looking for Via.

It's funny because I was so stupid. I knew he didn't want to see me

anymore but I still looked for him. The anger and pain in my chest
told me to follow him... until I saw him sitting at the train station.

"How are you?" was my first question to him.

No… That's not what I wanted to say. There's so much running

through my mind. There's so much I want to ask him.

“I came here to give you this.” I took his guitar case and handed it to
him. I don't know why I brought it here. Maybe I just
didn't want her to completely forget about music... because I was afraid
that if she did, she will eventually forget me too. "Leave it."

“I left that on purpose.”

“Me too?” I couldn't help but ask. “Did you also mean to leave me?”

I stared at him for a long time. I waited for his answer… In fact, I
waited for him to say no… He didn't mean it. If he had said that, I
would have forgiven him for leaving me. All the anger and pain in my
chest would have disappeared.

But no. He didn't answer... so I understood immediately.

"Okay, then... That's all I need to know."

I walked away with my pocket full because we had nothing more to

discuss. That was his answer. He left me on purpose.

I stopped walking and leaned against the edge of the post. I let out a
heavy sigh before covering my face, holding back the tears.

I expected this… but why does it still hurt? Maybe it's because there's still
a part of me that hopes that maybe we can make it up when we meet
again… that he'll say he didn't mean to leave me… that he'll come back to
me… but that's not what his eyes are saying.

Her eyes were cold. She did not have plans on coming back. She wanted to be
away from me. She was just beside me but she felt so far away. It was like I didn't
know her anymore. We became strangers once again. I didn't know what to do in
front of her and she was the same way.

It was as if we hadn't spent time together in years… as if I didn't

know his likes, his favorites, his thoughts, and everything he
experienced while we were together.
Sometimes, I wonder if I'll regret offering him a relationship that's
more than just friends... but all the days he made me feel like he loved
me were the happiest days I've ever experienced.

Because he was trying to get back from the hardships he experienced

because of me, I also tried to go back to my old life. I studied Film
again. I pursued all the subjects. Even though I didn't have any rest, it
was okay with me.

I feel like I'm killing myself because I'm always sleepless. There are so many
projects and I'm just taking on more and more because I want to get my
name back... which I ruined before. Even Clea's name got me involved...
especially Via.

I wanted to make up for my mistakes by doing the best I could but I always
felt like there was something missing. I was just distracting myself from all
the things that could remind me of her. It's hard... because we did everything
together.

“Hey, idiot, are you okay? Why is your face that color?” Sevi
asked me when she visited me at the condo.

“I haven't slept yet,” I told him and sat down on the sofa. “Why are
you here again?”

“Mom cooked! I gave it to you so you could have something home-

cooked to eat.” She went to the kitchen and put the things she brought
in the fridge. She even opened two containers and put food on my
plate. “Eat first and then go to sleep.”

“Yes, Ma,” I answered her and sighed.

I sat there and ate, but since I had skipped meals several times while
on set, I didn't feel like eating anymore. Sevi glared at me.

“I'll report you to Mama. I'll tell her you don't like her cooking,” he
threatened me.
“It's delicious, huh!” I was forced to finish it! I might even get a bad
shot from Tita!

“Via is going home, huh.”

I was stunned by what he said. I just stared at the food while holding the
spoon, wondering how I would react to it. Nothing more… There shouldn't be
anything more.

“I don't care,” I replied and continued eating. I heard him laugh out
loud at what I said.

“Really? You don't care? Okay, I won't tell you when. You don't care,
eh!” He stood up and stretched his arms and legs. “I'm going home!
Go to sleep!”

"Wait-" I couldn't continue because he already took his things and left.

Is Via going home? Why? When? Will she stay here long? Should I ask
Mira? They definitely know when she's going home... but they might
report me. They might say I'm still interested. Don't do it.

I visited my favorite music shop there. I always come here because they have
everything I want and the prices are cheap. There weren't many people there
either. They even let me use the studio downstairs.

“Excuse me,” I said to the woman when I got the strings I wanted.

I was looking at electric guitars when I saw a familiar face so I went

over and hugged him.

“Kuya Arkin!” Aidan said to me in surprise. I sat next to him while he

held the guitar.

“What's this? Are you going to buy a guitar?” I asked him while tuning
the one he had chosen so he could play it properly.

“You told me I was good! You taught me, huh!” He grinned so I ruffled
his hair after I returned the guitar to him. I gave it to him
He also took the guitar pick that was in my pocket.

“Don't tell your sister that,” I told her. I didn't want her to think I was
sucking up to her family while she was away. I had no intention of
doing that.

“Sister!” Aidan suddenly called to the woman. “This is okay! I like this!”

“Is this it? We can buy this too if we want-”

I froze in my seat when our eyes met. My heart beat faster when I saw
him in front of me. I didn't… expect him to be here. I thought I was
just kidding.

“Ah, Kuya Arkin already gave me a guitar pick!” Why did he even
have to say my name?!

Via was very surprised to see me but I was even more surprised! She looked
away from me and went to the counter. I was confused so I stood up and
turned my back on her, pretending to look at the guitar.

"Hey, Miss, you forgot something."

Miss… Miss you!

I handed him the capo while he was staring at me. He must have
realized it, so he quickly looked away. “Thanks,” he said shortly before
leaving.

I couldn't sleep that night. I told myself I wouldn't let our paths cross
again. I was scared for myself. I tried so many times not to think
about him and then this happened again. It couldn't be.

“Clea, here's your…” I immediately dropped the tray when I saw Via in
front of me. “Shit.” I immediately knelt down to clean it.

Pucha, why even here?! I've been avoiding people! Why did we meet
again?! Is Clea doing this on purpose, huh?!
“I'll do it,” I said, grabbing his wrist. “You'll get hurt.” I felt like I was
electrocuted when I felt his skin against mine.

Via became more mature. Not much has changed since my concert in
Spain but now, it's obvious from her act that she's a professional. She
doesn't seem out of place to me. She was acting so natural… or was she
just naturally cold?

It was raining when Clea and I left the coffee shop. I saw Via still
standing by the side, seemingly without an umbrella.

“Your umbrella. Give it to her,” Clea whispered to me.

"Why? I don't want to," I grumbled at him.

I was surprised when he suddenly snatched the umbrella from my hand and handed it
to Via! “Architect Diaz… Here.”

My umbrella! That's important to me!

“You're really being serious, Clea,” I told her while we were on set.
She just smiled at me, clearly teasing. “Seriously, it's not funny
anymore.”

“Oh come on! I know you like it! You miss her so much!” He teased
me again! That's why we always argue on set because since Via left,
he has a new way of teasing me. Since his love life is happy now.

“What do you miss? Where are you,” I immediately denied. “Why would I miss
that? Once you're gone, you're gone. There's no going back.”

“Arkin, arkin…” he said like a villain in a movie. “Don't say things

you will regret. You'll get fed up with the many words you'll eat.”

Ah, that's it! I don't want to see him anymore. It was not because of her... but
because of me. I wanted to protect myself. I wanted to keep myself out of
her space. I don't know what will happen to me when I get used to her
being there again.

But… with so many times we could have met, why on set… and why
when am I kissing Clea?! I was stunned. Am I dreaming again?! Maybe
it was just my brain making it up?!

“Arkin, why? What's wrong with you now?! Where are you
looking at?!”

"Sorry, sir," I apologized.

Clea was the one who was planning it again! I'm sure of it! Why is this
happening to me, huh?! I'm trying to get up! Why don't they let me
go?! Past is past! If it's past, bitch, don't go back!

"You're drunk. Don't talk anymore," I said seriously.

Larkin… You're the one doing your own harm. Why are you back together?
Why are you taking her home to them? Luna and I are there! Why did you
even show up? You're an idiot, too.

“What is the biggest star doing in my room?” he asked after returning from
the shower. “Go away.”

“My advice.” I'm just prolonging the time we spend together even
though in reality I'm so sleepy. I haven't slept since yesterday. I'm
about to collapse.

I sat at his work table. I didn't notice the time while he was looking for
my umbrella. I just woke up that morning with a blanket over my
shoulders. I was still confused about where I was because it wasn't my
room. My back still hurt!

“Oh, you idiot,” I whispered to myself when I saw Via sleeping on the bed. I immediately
stood up and folded the blanket before thinking about taking a shower.
I even cooked breakfast for him and his siblings before I woke him up
upstairs. He was so poor and looked like he was really drunk last night.

“I'm leaving.”

I immediately screamed in pain when he hit my chin. I glared at him! I

was the kind one who cooked for him and didn't wake him up right
away!

“It's so early in the morning, you're still waking up!” he complained. I

glanced at the clock. 6 AM. Okay, huh? This is how he wakes up!

"Aren't you waking up early anymore?"

Ah… A lot has changed in him. We've been apart for a long time.
We treat each other differently. We weren't even friends
anymore. Even just friends, nothing.

“Have we met before?” I asked Architect Morales.

“Ah… A while ago… Besides, I was Via's classmate back then.”

I'm telling you! That's why this guy looks familiar! This is the one who
was so close to Via before. Are they still together?! They're not right
for each other!

“Ah, yes…” I nodded and looked at Via. “Blockmates.”

Yes, of course… Why doesn't it occur to me that maybe he has

someone else? That's not impossible. If he has someone else… I
would be happy for him too because that means he no longer has to
bear the suffering I gave him before.

“Oh, it's okay if she already has another boyfriend!” I said to Sevi.

"She doesn't have a boyfriend," he replied while drinking a beer.

“No, it's okay,” I insisted. “At least… Isn't it? He's happy there! He's
moved on! That's okay! He's okay, right?! Okay
That's it!”

"She doesn't have a boyfriend, okay?" he repeated to me.

"Tol, it's okay, promise-"

"Whore, you don't have a boyfriend! What's your skin, huh?!" he shouted at me.

In all seriousness, I knew how much damage I had caused her. Even so, I
still wanted her to go into music because I knew that was where she fit
in. I still wanted to push her there… but I forgot to put myself in her
place. I'm not there anymore… I'm not one of the people close to her
anymore.

“Do you regret ever meeting me?” I asked her as she cried in front of
me.

I hoped he would say he had no regrets… I hoped I would be like

him. I have no regrets between us because I am happy to have met
him.

“It would be better… if not.”

But that's not how he feels about me. Did I love him more than the
love he gave me? Can that be measured? Why do I need to measure
it? Love is love… Right from the start, I told myself that as long as I
give him my love, it's okay. Even if he doesn't return it… I just want to
make him feel that someone loves him… that someone cares for him.

"I guess I was wrong about us. Let's not see each other again... Ever."

That was the plan. I promised myself that I would never see him
again no matter what. I would stay away from him because… I think
his life would be more peaceful without me. When he told me that he
still wasn't okay because of me, I realized that it still hurt him to see
me.
I was hurt too, of course. It hurt when I was told that I wish I had
never met him. I thought… even if it was just as a friend, he would
still appreciate it. It seems I was wrong.

"Pucha, when did you say you wouldn't see each other again, and then you're
planning something like that! It's like you're not a troop!" I complained to Luna.

“Your KJ! Come with me!” Luna replied to me. We are eating at Sevi's
house today and Via is not there. They really invited us separately.

"It's KJ," Kierra teased.

"Oh really, Kierra? Ledezma, Ledezma, Ledezma, Ledezma..." Luna

repeated like a child.

“Hey, you're being rude, huh.” Sevi pointed at him with the
spoon. “Get your life in order.”

"Okay, kids, don't fight at the table," Yanna said.

“Oh, never mind! I won't go! No! Never!”

Tangina. I just saw myself staring at the sea and sitting on the steps
of the villa we booked. I just scratched my head, annoyed again
because I let Sevi fool me. He said Via wouldn't come because she had
work to do! Look what happened!

“Shut up, don't talk to me,” I said angrily to him when I saw him
smirking at me.

"Alright, please, don't be so annoying, come back to me," he sang, getting

even more annoyed.

I tried to act like I didn't care, but even with the simple act of
bringing her food, pouring her water, and giving her her favorite
drink, I couldn't help myself. Add to that her smile as Luna and I
took pictures of her in her bikini.
“Cute,” I whispered to myself as I watched him wander.

“Thank you, tol. You look like an idiot… I know that,” Sevi said shyly to
me, placing a hand on my neck. My face was blank when I looked
back at her.

“Don't ruin my day, man,” I told him and just shook my head.

It seems that Via is also filled with guilt and her conscience can no
longer handle what she said before, so she came to me to apologize.
I'm not angry... I'm just hurt but I'm not angry with her. I understand
why she said that. I've thought about it too. If I were to put myself in
her shoes, I might say the same thing.

“Do you think we could bring our friendship back?” I was surprised by
his question to me. I suddenly had hope.

"We could try... If you also let me help you figure out what you really
want... and embrace it with you."

Now, I want nothing more than to make her happy. She's still not
happy with what she's doing and I know it. I can see it in her face.
Even if all she can give me is friendship, I'll accept it. I don't ask for
anything more than that... after everything that's happened. I don't
want to hurt her again.

“Why the hell are you smiling like that? Is there anything funny?” Clea
asked and glanced at my phone to see if there was a meme.

“Gossip!” I immediately put my phone away because I was texting Via.

“Don't tell me… Oh my gosh, you guys are back together?!” He was so happy
for me but I shook my head so he frowned again.

"Just friends," I told him.

“Lame!”
Lame… but that's okay with me. Anything is okay as long as I'm given
a place in his life. I have the opportunity to stay by his side and help
him discover the things he loves… his music.

"How many years have passed since you were together, are you sure you still
don't like Clea?"

I don't know how that gets into his brain. Does he think that, in all the
years we've been apart, I've thought about loving someone else?

"If time could measure my love for someone, think about who I was with
for more than twenty years... And you have your answer."

I've admitted to myself that until now... He's still the same. Nothing
has changed. I feel like my feelings for him have only gotten
worse... but I also know where to put myself.

He's not ready yet. He hasn't healed his wounds from the past... and
I understand that.

“Arkin… I don't know if I feel the same way about you then and now.” I
should have been hurt by what she said but… I felt relieved because
she told me the truth. She can say no now. She can say it when she's
not sure. At least I know I'm not a loser.

She took me to the Sunken Garden after the night I poured out all my
feelings to her. I bottled up my feelings for years and it felt nice saying
them out loud in front of her. All the emotions I was carrying in my
chest were gone.

When I saw him carrying his guitar and strumming, I suddenly

smiled… because I no longer saw the pain, anger, and sadness in his
eyes. He was happy. He was happy to play without hesitation.
I knew he was going to sing "Golden View"... but the words I heard
were different.

"A glance at you in the midst of the silence

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Listening to the pulse of feelings

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The thoughtful eyes met

The sun's rays peeking through the faces are colored..."

She changed it into her own lyrics. Her own version. Her own words.
My chest was beating faster and faster as I listened to her.

"Even when life gets dark, you're there."

Side by side, glancing at you...

Calming, living

Whenever I'm with you…”

It was then that I realized he was singing my song! It was my song

but now it was his song because he used it to send me a message. I
almost threw up my food when he sang the chorus.

"Golden scenery under the sky"

You are with me... As the wind blows

Along with the song... Feel your palm

When will you admit your feelings that I notice…”

Huh?! Did he notice that before?! I thought he had no idea how I felt.

“The sky is orange… I saw the beauty in your eyes…” He strummed again,
unable to look at me because of shyness. “Listening to the way you play the
guitar… Notice the nervousness whenever you are by my side… Singing in
the sparkle of your smiles… I just wish you wouldn’t avoid me…”
I just wish you wouldn't avoid me? Is he referring to the time he
rejected my confession to protect our friendship?

“In the light of day you are there… Side by side, glimpsing you.. Calming
down, living together… Whenever I am with you…” He continued singing.

“Via…” I covered my mouth and looked in another direction, my cheeks

turning red because we had reached the question of whether our
friendship would end here.

She wanted to write music. For the first time... She admitted that she did. I felt
so happy and proud of her progress. She was… trying.

“Hey, Arkin, is that bed scene you and Clea had for real? The one we watched!” I
was shocked by Yanna's question. Why all of a sudden?! Right in front of Via!

“Ah, no…” I scratched my head, confused! “And they didn’t show

it…”

“You're really good at that, huh! Hey, Via! Don't let yourself lose! You're really
good at it too!”

Huh?! What is he talking about?! What is he talking about?! He even pulled Via to
the side so his wife and I were left here.

“You're filming adult movies now?” he asked me curiously. “Is it

hard?”

“No! It's just in the script. It's not shown!” I defended myself.
“What's that… Yanna took from your pocket? It looks like she's
going to give it to Via.”

“Oh…” Hiro reached into his pocket and laughed at me. “It's nothing.
Don't worry about it. You're safe, bro.”
“Huh?!” What the hell is this saying?! Why?! Is there danger
coming?! Is my life in danger?!

I only understood when it fell from Via's jacket. I knew what it was
for. It was like I didn't know what I was doing! After we did that…
still inside the dressing room… I was just stunned when I got home.

“Tangina…” I whispered and pulled myself together. “What if I never talked

to him again?”

“I’ll talk to you later.”

“Pucha!” I held my chest in shock. “Son of… Why are you here
again?!” I complained to Sevi.

“Are you stupid? I've been here a while. Your ass is so strong, huh? Is that
good shit?” he teased me.

I'm going crazy just thinking about it. I was overthinking if I did it right. Did
I do something… strange? Was it not to his taste? Did I go overboard?
Maybe he'll suddenly be brought back to Spain, ah.

I tried so hard to give Via the peace of mind she wanted... to let herself feel free. I
tried to protect her... but she was, again, got overwhelmed by my light.

“Via… Hey…” I knelt down in front of her and held her hands. She
was shaking badly. “Look at me… I'm here. We're safe here. I'm the
only one here…”

I don't know how to comfort her. She was reliving her traumas. It
reminded me of when she was a kid. She also used to cover her ears
whenever her mom was yelling.

I'm here… I won't disappear. I'm the only one here… I won't leave you,
okay? Are you listening to me? Do you understand what I'm saying? I
love you… and I will protect you no matter what.”
When the media mobbed her, I knew everything I said would be more
harmful to her. I waited days for the issue to calm down before I
scheduled an interview. I cannot lose her again… Not this time. Not
ever.

“Who… Remember this… You are the music I want everyone to

hear…”

He doesn't make me feel bad anymore. He doesn't make me feel bad about
others... and about himself. I'm happy for him even though I know he'll leave
me again. Even so, his well-being is still more important to me. His
happiness is my happiness.

As long as she decided to do it for herself, I will always support her. I

have no right to stop her from doing things she can still achieve. She just
gained her wings again… and I knew that she would use them to fly… in
the right time. She will flaunt her talent to everyone.

“Are you spending Christmas in Spain?” Mom asked me.

“Yes… I’ll follow Via,” I said while packing. “I miss her, Ma…”

“Take care, Kino. You're all grown up now,” Papa said to me. “Just take
home some pasalubong. Don't forget you still have a concert. You
might enjoy your stay there.”

“Yes, Dad.”

I'm already taking care of the paperwork for my move there. I

realized… I would rather have a peaceful life with her than be blinded
by my own light. She was there for me… all the time. It was my turn to
be beside her again.

And I also promised myself that I will always stay with her… near her…
or beside her. Even not as a partner… Even just as a friend.
"Why are you staying here? First of all... ¿Hablas español? No. No sabe lo
que está haciendo! Sube el taxi y ve a casa ahora mismo. Es mejor si no te
quedas aquí!"

I was just stunned by Via as she lectured me. Whoa… That was great,
ah! Her accent was beautiful! It was sexy! I could spend all day hearing
Via speak Spanish, even if she was insulting me.

In the end, he still agreed. That's all... It's boring because he's away
every day, so every day I find something to do. I've become friends
with all the shop owners near his apartment. They're usually old
people. They become friends so quickly.

I wasn't being sweet to her to convince her… I just wanted to make her day
better each day. It must be tiring to work in an architectural firm. Besides
that, I hear she also teaches. I really admire Via.

I had the chance to be free in Spain. I've been living in the spotlight for so
long. I don't know what it's like outside. I could walk freely without
covering my face. No one was following… No one was watching.

“Life is so good,” I whispered as I sat on the bench and looked up

at the sky. This is the life I want… if I’m lucky.

I was ready to say goodbye to the cameras. The concert was the last spotlight
that I will ever be in... for a long time... and I was glad to spend it with her.

“This is the duet song we wrote before, right?” I asked Via while
reading the lyrics she had written. “Did you change it?”

“It's better now,” he told me.

“Are you sure you want to sing this in my concert?” I was just making sure
again because he might back out again. I didn't want him to feel the
weight on his chest again.
He smiled and kissed me on the lips. I was surprised, ah. “I'm sure. I
know what I want to do, Kino.”

"O-okay..." I stuttered! "Uh... Via... If I ever ask you to marry me,

what will you say?"

His forehead furrowed. "Yes?" he asked.

“Aren't you sure?” I was starting to get pouty! Why did it look like there was a
question mark at the end?!

“Yes,” he said clearly. “Isn't this a proposal? It's ridiculous. Do

you really have to ask that?” He ruffled my hair.

“Are you okay with public proposals?” I need to make sure of this with
him first.

“Whatever it is, Arkin… I will still say yes.” He smiled at me so I came

closer and kissed his forehead.

She was shining in my eyes. I knew she was happy. I knew that
smile was genuine. Finally… After a few years… I can see her happy.

“Ready?” I asked him while holding his hand. I had the

microphone in one hand.

She nodded at me, smiling. She was clearly nervous… but she didn't back
down. She was ready to face the crowd.

"Let us all welcome, Larkin Sanchez and Avianna Diaz!"

I was the first to leave when the song started playing. This is it… The
song we both wrote. The song that will tell the story of what we
experienced from childhood, to falling for each other, until we
became and broke up… but found love for each other again.

"When I open my eyes, I'm with you."

We are fighting the fight, wherever we go

From toys to school, obedient

"We're not separated anymore, are we destined to be together?"

I was already deafened by the people's shouting... but it got

louder when Via walked out while singing. I turned to her and
offered my hand.

“Even though I like him… You're still the one I want to be with… No
one else,” he sang before holding my hand.

“Every look, every tone in my ear is asking… Because every minute, I

want to watch you.” I just stared at him to read what he was
thinking… If he was still okay.

“I don't know, what is this feeling… Mixing with the flow of my heart's
wonder…” And he did it again.

He nodded to me to say he was okay before I sang again, looking at him.

“You are the essence of the music… Every note on the guitar, together with
the storm of the mind…”

“How can I tell if my feelings are getting deeper, should I let them go or
should I admit it? How about that?” he sang. He let go of me to walk to the
other side of the stage and I let him. “At the end of the day, just you and
me… The clouds are beautiful, my feelings are overflowing. Sitting, side by
side with the guitar… Looking at you, I feel my heart relax…”

I also walked to the other side for both of our blockings. “I feel so
bad in my heart… Is it now or when will you know that I love
you?”

We took turns singing the pre-chorus again and then the chorus together
before we got to the part of the song where we told the story of how we broke
up. It was painful but it was one of my favorite things he wrote.
"What now? I can't stay any longer..." he said.

“Don't tell me it's enough…” I felt a pain in my chest as I sang that.

"I don't want to. I wish I never met you..." he sang before we sang
together again.

“You remember your promise, right?”

I walked back again so that we could meet in the middle while he sang.
“You are still the essence of the music… Every cry of the melody…
Together with the heartbeat…”

I touched her cheek as she looked at me. My grip on her hand

dropped and I placed it on my chest. “Forever, holding your hand… I
will stay by your side…”

“I promise, I won't let you go…” we sang together. That was another
promise for us. “I promise, I won't let you go…”

I didn't hear the shouts and applause of the people because my

attention was more focused on Via. She smiled at me and hugged me
tightly in front of everyone. I kissed her forehead while feeling her
heartbeat.

“I love you,” he said to me.

When she let go of me, I stared into her eyes. She looked so
happy… and it was enough to make me smile.

“I love you, Via…” I reached for my pocket before kneeling one knee in
front of her. Her eyes widened and she looked around. They were all
watching. Lots of cameras, lots of people.

“Arkin! You're really crazy. This is what you're planning,” he said softly to me
so I wouldn't hear him on the microphone. “Yes, right? Stand up right there!”
“I'm just going to tie my shoes, Via,” I told her. It turned out that it was
heard on the microphone, so everyone laughed.

She fake smiled at me before I stood up and put the box back in my
pocket. Maybe… I wanted to do it some other time… I wanted it to be
private between us, although she already agreed.

“Again, a round of applause for my girlfriend, Avianna Rye Diaz! Mi amor,” I said
into the microphone. She even pinched my waist out of embarrassment.

“Thank you.” Via bowed again, embarrassed. “Can I go back? I’m

embarrassed,” she whispered to me but was heard again on the
microphone. “Oh, you bastard…”

"Please be patient. I'm not used to it but... It's a beautiful voice, isn't it?! We wrote
the song together... It was arranged chronologically from when we were
childhood friends, then high school when I realized that I liked her... but he
wanted someone else... Until college came and we realized that we loved each
other then. But things went south and we had to separate, but look at us! We
found ourselves back in each other's arms again!"

"The song is entitled Ikaw Ang Musika... because our passion for music
became our bridge. It led us to each other again even after taking different
paths. Our music... is our sign of love. Our commitment to each other," he
added.

And no matter what happens, he will be the content of my music.

“And… Cut! Pack up, Arkin! Yehey!” Via was so happy when she said
it for me. We were shooting a Filipino movie in Spain.

But I'm no longer the one in front of the camera.

“Take a break, sir!” my staff told me.

“You too. Take a break. It looks like it’s going to rain again…” I looked
up at the sky before putting down the script I was holding on the side.
Via happily ran to me to hug me. “Mahal!”

“Good job!” he praised me. “Rest now…”

She just visited the set today so she just saw me working. She's
always busy. She didn't plan on leaving their firm but she's still
writing songs for others. She was officially signed as a songwriter
under my recording agency. She's collaborated with a lot of artists.
She seems happy with what she's doing.

“What's the movie about again?” he asked me curiously and took the
script.

“About us,” I answered him and grinned.

He thought I was joking until he read the script. There were lines in
there that he actually said to me. His lips parted and he immediately
went to the end to see how it ended.

“Did you propose?” he asked me. “No way!” He raised his hand and
showed it to me. “There's no ring here! This script is a lie!”

I laughed and took the box out of my pocket. Without hesitation, I

took her hand and slipped the ring on it. “Now, there it is.”

“Who!” He covered his mouth and slapped me on the arm. “There's

really no question? That's not a proposal!”

I stared at her while she complained to me. God… She was so cute. I
touched her cheek and kissed her forehead.

"Will you be my endgame?" I asked him seriously.

He suddenly fell silent at my question. I saw his cheeks immediately
turn red as he looked away from me. “Yes…” he said softly. “Duh… I
told you… I’m going to answer yes…”

"Well, why are you still complaining?" I raised an eyebrow at him.

“That's not what's in the script.” He showed me the paper. “Wait, what's the
title of the movie?”

“Golden Scenery of Tomorrow,” I replied.

Red, orange, yellow... The colors of sunset always reminded me of her. The
golden scenery that witnessed how we started, ended... and started all over
again.

The sunset may represent another end... but it always gave me hope for a
good tomorrow. A chance to be with each other again.

This is Director Larkin Olivier D. Sanchez,

saying goodbye to the cameras.

-END-

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