Before anything else, i'd like everyone to know that i am not the author of this story. I just really wanted to share it to everyone. Since it's a really good one. About updates, i'll try to finish by this week (hopefully). Since i'm translating some of it's parts from filipino to english i'm not really sure when. By the way "Pare" is like "Bud/Buddy" here in the Philippines. And is usually addressed to friends or peers. So enjoy, laugh, and maybe cry a little. •~•~• Prologue Here I am all alone sitting inside my room. Thinking.. about the things that happened. I don’t know how I was able to live all through out this years, bearing this big hole in my heart. It all happened years ago, back when I was still in high school. Back to the time when I first fell in love. It was my freshmen year in high school. Not wanting to welcome my high school life with tardiness, I ran furiously through the halls when I suddenly bumped into someone. And little did we know that that little accident would blossom into a very fruitful relationship. This person I bumped into is my Best friend. That was basically how we first met. From then on, we started hanging around each other. We enjoyed each other’s company. And eventually, we became inseparable. He was always there when my girlfriends bail out on me. He was always patient enough to always wait up for me. And I’m telling you I move too slow, it takes up a lot of patience to wait up for me. He’s basically the perfect guy for me. But of course I have these little battles in my mind saying “You’re just best friends, and that’s all you ever could be.” I knew we could never be, so I had no choice, i had to move on. But no matter how hard I try, to the point that if only I could stop the beating of this muscle, this so called heart, I would. But I can’t.. I can’t help it. It was then I realized… I’m slowly falling for my best friend. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 1: The Revelation PROM! The school had this crazy idea that the girls should ask the guys out. Which really sucked. I was about to ask my crush to go with me, but being the school crush, he obviously already has a date. One week left for prom, and I still have no date. What am I suppose to do? Well, of course, I run to my dearly beloved best friend. “Pare, I still don’t have a date for prom.” I told him during one of our breaks. “So? What do you want me to do? You want me to be your date?” he asked. I just looked at him, smiling as cute as I can. And of course he already knows what that’d mean. Like he wouldn’t be my best friend if he won’t, right? “Fine, fine! I’ll be your date at prom.” he finally gave in. Yes! I have a date for prom. I knew he’d never let me down. Yup, that’s my ever dearest best friend for you. It’s finally here. The night I’ve been waiting for. He came to our house to pick me up. And take note, he’s on time. He was (as usual) patiently waiting for me to finish up. When I came down, he stood up and looked at me in “awe” (I hope). But when I saw him, I was totally blown away. Wow! I never imagined that my best friend could be this handsome! Too bad, I’m just the “best friend”. He pinned the corsage on my dress and after a few pictures taken by my Mom, we left for prom. The night was such a blast. Everyone was saying, “You look good together.” And “you guys are cute!” we were flattered, I was flattered. Last song of the night, he asked me to dance with him. We were talking about random stuff. “You look great tonight.” He said, which made me happy. “Thanks. You do too.” I replied. After a moment of silence, he suddenly spoke up. “Have you ever thought of us? If it’s possible, for us to be together?” He asked. “If ever? Why not? I’m not closing my doors to anyone.” I said hastily. It’s true, I’m not. And if he only knows how I feel. “So, you willing to give it a try?” – Him “You mean us? Yeah, it would be okay.” –Me (secretly smiling deep down) “So, we’re already together?” –He finally asked. “As in right now? Okay. Yes.” I said with a smile. “Okay. Don’t worry if we won’t work out, we’ll still be Pare. Let’s just try it out. You know, out of curiosity. Nothing serious.” –Him “Sure. Okay.” I answered and we danced our night away. After prom he brought me home. Before he left we both bid our usual good byes. You know, stuff like see you tomorrow, good night, call you, text you, have a good sleep, the usual. When I was about to enter the house, he held my hand and looked intently into my eyes. “What’s wrong?” I asked. I mean, who wouldn’t be curious when someone would suddenly look at you that way. “May I kiss you? But, only at the cheek.” He said while blushing. I couldn’t explain what I was feeling, but I smiled and said yes. He held my head, leaned over, and kissed me on my cheek. His lips were warm, soft and gentle. “Take care on your way home.” Was all I can say after. When I got to my room. I was practically freaking out! Seriously! He has never looked at me that way before. I know what you guys are thinking. I’m crazy to actually allow all these to happen. But what can I do? I like Him, and I’m seriously falling for Him. So when I finally got the chance to call him mine, I quickly grabbed it. Even if he said it’s nothing serious, at least I could say one day, that once in my life he was mine. The next day, almost the whole school already knew that we were together. Talk about gossip. At first, we were too shy to admit it, but eventually we both admitted to what we were framed of. Graduation. And we’re still going strong. You’d think by now we’ve gotten serious. I don’t know. There are times we’re serious, and time we’re not. But I was secretly hoping we were serious. On the day of our graduation, both our families celebrated together. See? We’re legal! Hahaha. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 2: Breakdown College! Four years of fun and hardship through high school, and now finally we are college students. Unfortunately, we went to different universities. And that’s when things started to get complicated. Every thing became hard to handle between us. It was so complicated that it reached to the point that we had that talk. You know, THE TALK. And it happened on our second anniversary. We were having a silent dinner, when he started to speak. “Can we talk? You know. About us?” he asked. “Sure. Why? Is there something wrong?” I asked him back. “Remember back at high school. We both agreed that if we won’t work our, we’d set each other free?” he opened up, Oh no! What’s this? What’s this suppose to mean? This is not happening!!! “’cause honestly, I’m having a hard time. I don’t think this is still working out for me.” He continued. What the! No way. No way! No way! NO WAY! I can’t believe this. Why? And to make matters worse, you had to choose this day. On our anniversary? Pare what’s up with that? What do you want me to say? You’re having a hard time? So you think I’m not having a hard time? You think all these years I’m okay? Wow! If only you know, but you don’t. I wish I could say all those. “Okay. If that’s what you want.” I said. Well there’s your martyr for you. “One question,” I asked suddenly “is there someone else involved?” I was dreading to hear his answer. He looked straight at my eyes and slowly nodded his head. “Yes, there is. She’s my classmate. I’m so sorry.” He said. I’m sorry? I’m sorry? What’s up with that? Will sorry bring back yesterday? Will your sorry stop my heart from aching? What? I can’t believe this. With that, it felt like my world suddenly collapsed. Burn and fall down to ashes. Is this what dying feels like? I wanted to cry, to scream, to yell at him, to make a scandal for all I care. But I can’t. I brought this upon myself. I always knew it never could be. But I dived in anyway. Nothing else I can do, but to finish what I started. With trembling hands, I slowly reached for my purse. I took out the gift I bought for him. To think that within that two years span of our relationship, he never once learned to love me more than a Best friend. And now, with just one blink, all my hopes, my dreams, my world.. gone. I handed him the gift. At first he didn’t want to accept it, but I insisted. So in the end he gave in and took the gift. It was a bracelet with our names inscribed on it. At the back it says “PARE FOREVER” I guess, “pare” is all we ever could be to each other anyway. After dinner he tried to lighten up the mood by cracking up some jokes and playing around. Of course, as my best friend, he knows how to me laugh. But no matter how hard I laugh at all his jokes and stories, it’s all the same as how hard my heart is crying in pain. Shocks! I never thought that I’d be this corny one day! But it’s true. My heart is torn, but all it can do is ache and cry deep down. And putting up this happy disguise was even harder than it usually is. He took home right after desert. We said our usual good byes then he kissed me on my cheek. Then he left. Before I went in, I told myself I won’t cry. But the moment I closed the door to my room, tears just started to well up and in a second the just flowed down, nonstop too. And it even became worst when I saw our picture at my bedside table. Trying hard to take my mind off him, I decided to switch on the television. But seriously! Can’t this world even give me a little break? Coincidence much, the song playing on MTV was Breakdown by Mariah Carey. Like wow, perfect timing. Well, I guess I’m trying to be Nonchalant about it. To prove I’m fine without you. But in reality I’m slowly losing my mind. Underneath the guise of smile Gradually I’m dying inside. Friends ask me how I’ve been And I lie convincingly I don’t want them to reveal The fact that I’m suffering And so I wear my disguise ‘til I go home at night and then I turn off the lights and then I breakdown and cry…. What the!!!?? That was such a large slap on my face. It was just right for me! Headshot! I’ve always been looking ahead at an empty surface. Hoping for nothing. I always thought this was it! That you were the one! I cried and cried and cried all night, ‘till I finally fell asleep. I cried myself thinking about us, thinking about you. UGH! And I have class! Talk about perfect timing. I was just reminded that you always pick me up for school. Wow. I can’t let him see me like this. There is no way in hell that I will let you see me like this. You just can’t see how worst I am without you. Uuuuuuuugh!!!!
Chapter 2: Breakdown (continuation) The next day, when he came to pick me up for school I asked our maid to tell him that I’m going to be late. He was insisting to wait for me, it’s a good thing our maid is a little pushy, ‘Cause he left anyway. I let a few minutes pass before making my way to school. Now, now I’m thankful we study in different schools. At least he won’t see me looking like this, down and broken. Upon arriving at school, of course my dearest girlfriends, after seeing my looks, interrogated. “Your eyes! What happen to your eyes?” Sheryn asked me while tying her hair. “You cried! You cried didn’t you?” Crista answered on my behalf. Okay, let’s say I really love these girls, and I do. They are one of those people who I can’t afford to lose. But in times like this, I’d rather be alone. I don’t like how they want to be involved in everything. Though I know most of their intentions are right, I just think they’re over-involving their self in my problems. “We’ve split up.” I said, pretending to read our thesis. “What? Seriously?” “Why?” “What happen?” “What was the reason?” They both bombarded me with question by question by question. I knew it. I knew they’d react like this. “It’s over. Things, things didn’t work our between us. We’re better off as friends.” I told the, trying to convince them that it’s all okay and that it doesn’t matter to me. “Is there another girl involved?” Jen asked. I can’t believe the radar these girls have, it should already be ABNORMAL. I just nodded my head. “What?!” “No way!?” “That jerk! To think that we were so okay about him!” “What do you want us to do him?” “Let’s go! I want to find her! I’ll give her a piece of my hand!” They were so noisy with all their rants about Pare. They said about doing this and that. And I just sat there, looking at them listening. “Well, what can I do? It was both our decision anyway. Plus, it was all out of curiosity. It was never serious. Remember? And don’t do anything to the girl. It’s not her fault that he’s fallen for her. Maybe things between me and Pare were not meant to be. Things happen for a reason.” Finally I was given a chance to speak, that was after they calmed down that is. “You sure you’re okay?” one of them asked. Uhh. Hello?!! Do I look okay??! Do I look like I’m fine? Can’t you girls see how swollen my eyes are? And you’re asking me if I’m okay? Are you okay? From what galaxy are you girls from? To actually be asking if I’m okay? After a break up? And I’m suppose to be k-okay? Yeah, right. As if I could say that… “Yes. I’m okay. It’s not that much of a big deal. We’re still friends.” I said with a smile. Wow! Best actress! And the award goes to ME. I was actually on the verge of breaking into tears when I said those. Because it was all lie. But I know I have to show them I’m strong. And that I can move on. “Can we please stop with this? I really think we should be talking about our thesis, and not Pare. So enough of Pare.” Ashley suddenly said out of nowhere. I look at her and said a silent thank you she winked at me and mouthed “anytime”. She’s really a true friend. Although she is the most serious one among us, in times of need, she’s there. Full support and she’ll never leave your side. After that, the topic was closed. And they left me alone with my Pare Issue.
Chapter 2: Breakdown (continuation) I was sitting all alone at my secret place, when Ashley came over and sat beside me. After a few minutes of silence she looked at me with meaningful eyes and said, “Cry. It’s okay. Just let it all out. I’m here for you.” With that, I started to cry out all my pain and anger. And Ashley just sat there, without saying anything. Patting my back from time to time. She was the person who I could show my true state at that time. It was only to her I could show how vulnerable, fragile, and hurt I was. It was only Ashley who heard my real feelings, my hatred towards Pare, my unsaid speeches. And she need not say anything. Her presence enough was already comforting. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 3: New Beginnings Months have passed since that very unfaithful night. It’s also been months that I’ve been hiding from him. He no longer sends me to school every morning. When he calls, I try to keep our conversation short. But when come to the house I have no choice but to entertain him. I mean I can’t just throw him out, that’d be a scandal! Wait. Am I bitter? Haha! No. Not really. But after months and months and months of hiding from him, I grew tired so I finally decided to give our friendship another try. Besides, I ran out of excuses and alibis to tell him. So back to our normal drama as best friends. As soon as my girlfriends noticed this, they, as usual, invite them selves in the situation. “Are you two back together?” one of them asked one day. “Nope.” I simply replied. “Then how come…” “We’re just friends. Best friends. Back to what we were before.” I said cutting them off. “Well, okay.” Was all they could say. •~•~• Friday night, this night is our so-called sacred night. It has been our tradition since high school days to have movie marathons every Friday night. Sometimes we do it at my house, and sometimes at his. I was so excited for our marathon tonight we were going to have a horror marathon this evening. Our venue was at his house, since my mom has visitors. When I got to his house I found him at the entertainment room all dressed up, which was unusual, since we usually watch at his room and he usually just wears house clothes. “Hey! It’s a miracle! You’re all dressed up. Hahaha! And why are we watching down here? Let me guess, you didn’t clean up your room again?” I said slightly teasing him. “What? Hahaha! My room is clean. It’s just that my player is broken so we can’t watch there. And…” he didn’t get to finish his sentence when a girl entered the room with chips in hand. She’s impossibly a maid, ‘cause if she is, with those clothes on that’s one sexy maid’s uniform. “Hi! I’m Twinx. Your best friend has told me a lot about you. He practically always talks about you.” She said. Twinx huh? Wow! What a name. What are you? A chocolate? But I had no choice but to smile. “I’ll go get our drinks.” She said after placing the chips on the table. When “chocolate” left, I looked at Pare with one eyebrow raised. Oh he knows what that means, he should. “Pare,” he said placing his hands on my shoulders, “I know I didn’t tell you that she’d be coming over. But I wasn’t sure if you’d say yes, so I just asked her to come over. I want to you to meet her. Plus my best friend’s approval is important to me, before, you know.” He finished. “Fine! But remember the reason why we have movie night? It was for us to spend time with each other. Just the two of us! Remember? This is OUR sacred night together.” I said in a sulking voice. He didn’t say a word instead he looked at me with pleading eyes as if to say “please. Please Pare.” So there was nothing else I could do, I just can’t resist him. “Fine! Once! Just this once! I’ll stay, okay? But I don’t want this to happen again. Have I made myself clear?!” I said sternly. He hugged me tight and gave me a kiss on my cheek. “Thanks Pare! You truly are the best!” he said excitedly. Then chocolate, I mean, Twinx came back with all the drinks. Seriously that name! All throughout the marathon, I was just quiet. Unlike when it’s just me and Pare, no-matter how dramatic, scary, or serious the movie is we’d both find a way to laugh about the scene. Though he’d still come up to me from time to time and say something funny about the movie, I’ll just smile and not discuss things further. Things became even more awkward throughout the night. And Twinx wasn’t helping out either. The way she sticks herself to Pare, wow! I couldn’t take it. I just can’t! Then at times she approaches me trying to have small talks with me. I’d just smile and cut all her little chitchats short. When I had the chance I sent Sheryn a message to come get me. It didn’t take long for Sheryn to arrive. I bid my goodbyes to the two of them and headed for the door when Pare got hold of my hand. “You’re leaving?” he asked looking so worried, which actually made me feel good. “Yes. I have to go to Ashley’s place. It’s an emergency. We’re missing a chapter in our thesis, so I have to go do it again.” Was my excuse. It was pretty lame but I couldn’t think of any other alibi. It’s a good thing Sheryn supported my alibi so he let me go. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 4: Drummer Boy After a week he met up with me at the park, we were sitting at our favorite bench when he wanted to talk about “chocolate”. “So what do you of Twinx?” he asked me. “She’s okay.” I said trying hard to hide the coldness in my voice. “Approved?” he looked at me. “She’s okay.” I said again. “Why’d you leave again, that night?” he asked. “Thesis, remember?” I said in a matter-of-fact tone. He dropped the topic. And after a long deafening silence his childish side came out again. He started with his corny jokes, which never fails to make me laugh for no reason at all. After all these years, he still knows how to cheer me up and make me smile. J Time moved on, then days, then months. I thought I had also moved on and accept the fact that we’re really just friends. I was wrong. When he told me that Twinx has already said yes, I felt my heart skip a beat. I could hardly breath at that time. I don’t know if he noticed, but I was gasping for air. I was lost for words, I didn’t know what to say to him. But because I am the “best actress” . I smiled at him and said, “Good for you. I wish you both all the luck.” That’s when I decided to keep my distance with Pare. Plus, I don’t want to be caught up in the same room with “chocolate”. I needed an outlet to these feelings, so I started to look around for any guy who might catch my eye. Just in time drummer boy came into the scene. He plays in one of the bands in the school. He showed so much interest in me. Until we actually became close, and well you know what happen next. We started dating, and eventually I gave him my “yes”. But before that, to be fair to my best friend, I went and asked for his approval too. When they both met, there was some kind of tension between them. Something I couldn’t explain. So obviously their meeting wasn’t good. But when Pare saw me very happy with drummer boy, he gave me his approval. BUT with a very clear warning. “If he ever hurts you or makes you cry Pare, even just a single tear. No matter how much you stop me I will really kill him. Got it?” those were his words to me. Well, that’s my Pare. He’s even much more protective over me than my dad is! I was so touched. At least I know he still cares for me. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 5: Reunion Years had already passed. Finally I’m almost graduating! Just a little more and I’ll be getting my PhD. Yes, I took up medicine. If ever you’re wondering what happened to my little drummer boy, well, we broke up. ‘Cause no matter how hard he tried he really can’t fill that empty void in my heart. I know he really loved me but my heart was just not in our relationship. About Pare and Twinx? I’ve never heard from them again since they graduated college. All I know is that Twinx is now an executive in a famous modeling company while my best friend is the president of one of the top engineering firms in the country. Other than that, I’ve heard nothing else from them. •~•~• On my graduation day, I wish he were there. I wanted to share that special moment with the very special person in my life. But he wasn’t there by my side. Though I was celebrating that day with my family and friends, deep inside, I felt so alone. I then started putting my ten-years course into practice. One Saturday morning, I got a letter from my previous high school. There was an “Alumni Homecoming” and all are requested to come since it’s also the school’s 75th year anniversary. At first I hesitated, but then I decided “why not?”. I won’t be doing anything since I’m on a month leave from the hospital. Ever since I got my PhD I’ve been doing countless numbers of surgeries and now I’m on my very first leave. I was already running late when I got to the school. It felt good to be coming back to this place. Walking around the corridors just made me smile. Then I had a sudden flashback of events, how all those happy and sad memories were actually shared with him, with Pare. Something suddenly ached inside me. Having to remember all those moments and how we both went through it all, together. It was painful. But ever since he had Twinx, everything disappeared. If only I was able to set him free. If only I wasn’t stubborn and gave the girl a chance. In the auditorium, all my high school friends were there. Everybody looked the same, except for the suits, formal wear and gray hairs here and there. Wow, most of us really do have gray hair already. But nonetheless, they’re still the same. I sat with my old friends. And started chatting away. Of course we also talked about our times back at high school. All the happy and fun memories we had. We had a good laugh going back to memory lane. At first, I thought this whole reunion thing was going to be boring, but I was wrong, since nothing much has changed between my old friends so we were still having fun. Through the night, I was feeling uneasy. I kept on looking around as if looking for something or someone. Yes. I’m looking for him. He’s one of the reasons why I decided to come to our reunion. I wanted to see him again. In the middle of the program, he still hasn’t arrived. I stopped hoping. He won’t come anyway. So, I didn’t want to finish the program, I couldn’t take it anymore plus I kept thinking of him. He’s been the only person I was thinking about all night. I went out to catch some fresh air and walk a bit hoping it’d help take my mind off him. I was walking around the campus. Not much has change. When I came to my senses, I realized where my feet brought me. I was standing at OUR secret place. A place where only Pare and I know. I was shocked to be here, to be back to this place. I guess my feet are already used to walk me here. I slowly walked towards the bench where we usually spend our recess and lunch breaks. This is where we always eat, chill out, and just talk. I sat at my side of the bench and stared blankly into the sky, reminiscing one more about our good old days. Suddenly everything turned black. Someone covered my eyes. I started touching the hands that were covering my eyes, trying to identify whose it might be. When I finally had a clue at least I think I did. OH MY GOSH! Could it be? It can’t be!? Can it? OH—MY—GOSH! “Pare?” I asked, taking hold of his hands and pulling him close to me.
Chapter 5: Reunion (continuation) “OWW!” he said. “I still can’t fool you! Hahaha! After all these years I still can’t fool you.” He flashes his killer smile at me then hugs me tight and whispers at my ear “I missed you.” SHOCKS! If only I could cry, I would. He sat down beside me. And we both sat there in silence. As if to feel each others presence. I felt that if I would move or speak everything would suddenly disappear, it frightened me a little. Then he broke the ice. “Pare congratulations.” He said. “Huh? Where?” I asked facing him. “I heard you already got your PhD.” – him “ohhh…. Yes, thanks.” I said. And another long moment of silence. Then, “Pare, I really missed you so much.” He said with a deep sigh. He looked at me, but when I looked at him he looked up to the sky. “I missed you too.” I said in a soft tone. I don’t know if he could hear the sadness in my voice. “What have you been up lately?” he asked. So, then we started telling stories about the happenings in out lives the past years. I don’t know if he noticed, but neither of us talked about our love lives. Then we talked about the present, then about the past, our memories at high school. All our jokes back then, the good times the bad times we’ve been through. It was nice to remember all these with him. “Wow! I can’t believe I’ve actually been through so much! It’s a good thing someone’s always there to catch me. Hahahah!” I said. “Why of course! Would I ever leave you? You’re my Pare and I’m you’re my Pare. I’m your best friend right?” he answered proudly. I wanted to say ‘oh really?’ but I didn’t. Instead is said “of course! Hahaha!” with a forced smile, to hide what’s really inside. “All our important and most memorable times were shared with each other.” He said smiling. “My graduation was special for me. But you were not there.” I said in a sad voice. “I was there.” He replied. “huh?!” I looked at him to see if he was just bluffing or what. But I saw in his eyes that he was telling the truth. “I was there on you graduation. I was at the back.” He said. “But… Why.. Why didn’t you show up?! Why didn’t you come near me?! I asked him. I was suddenly confused. My heart started beating fast, I--I couldn’t understand a thing. “My shyness took the best out me. I disappeared for a long time then suddenly I’ll come around and appear out of nowhere?” – him I was speechless. “When I saw you get your diploma, I was very proud. Especially when you gave your speech. I told the person beside me, that person in front is one of the most important people in my life. I had never seen you that happy before. Seeing you that happy was already enough for me.” Then he paused. I was really speechless. I couldn’t speak! I felt like something was blocking my arteries, I was suddenly having a hard time to breath and it’s like my blood stopped flowing in my veins. “I don’t know what to say.” After a moment of long silence, that’s all I could mutter. “You know, when I was up there, I was very nervous. But I thought about all that I’ve been through to get to this point. I also remember the times that you’d push me to do my best and to believe in myself. I was thinking that maybe if you were there I’d be more comfortable and all my worries and fears will be gone.” Finally said after another moment of silence. “And you know what?” I suddenly asked out of the blue. “What?” he looked at me. “You said you saw me very happy that day, right?” I asked and he nodded in response. “Well, I was happy but I felt kinda empty.”
Chapter 5: Reunion (continuation) “What do you mean?” He asked, curiosity filling his eyes. “’Cause you weren’t there. Every single memorable moment in my life was spent with you beside me. But that day, I felt like I was alone. Like I don’t have anyone to share it with.” I said trying to hold back my tears. “But I was there with you on your special day. I wasn’t beside you, but I was there.” He assured me. Then my tears started falling. He hugged me and comforted me. We were like that for quite a while. His arms around me and my head leaning on his shoulder. Just like it used to be. Those simple days, when it was just him and me. A little while later we both decided to go back inside. It was already awarding time. They were awarding random titles to people. And one of them awards was “Most Popular Couple in High School”. I don’t what joke it was or what. But we won the award. Pare and I won the “Most Popular Couple in High School”. We couldn’t say no so we went up the stage and took our award. Everybody was clapping. When were about to exit the stage the crowd started shouting “KISS! KISS!” How old are we all again? Hahaha! But we gave in. he gave me a peck on the cheek, just like before. Then they clapped again. Just like kids. And here I am, smiling so big. I was feeling the award, that’s for sure. Then at last the program ended. It was time to go home. “Pare let me send you home.” He said while we were walking to the parking lot. “No. It’s okay. I got my car.” I said. “Oh okay. I’ll just follow you home then, to be sure you arrive safely.” he said. All I could do was smile, I know even if I say no he’d still follow me home. So, he followed me home. When we arrived, he got out of his car and met up with me in my front door. “Thanks.” I told him. “No problem. As long as it’s you.” He said. “uhh.. Would you like to have a cup of coffee before you leave?” I asked. “Sure. As long as it’s okay with you.” – him “hahaha! Would I ask you if it’s not? You have so much drama Pare, ever since high school days.” I said then I punched his arm softly. We went in and drank coffee. Then we started talking about random things when suddenly his phone rings. “Hello? Yes, babe. I’m on my way. It was great.” – him Babe?! “Okay. See you later. Huh?! Okay, me too.” He said and hung up. “I guess you’d better go.” I told him. “I guess I do.” He looked at me. Then we walked to his car. “By the way can I get your number? You know… communication..” he said slightly stuttering. “Oh sure.” So we exchanged numbers. Cell phone, home, office, landline, everything. “Who was at the phone earlier?” I asked suddenly. “Oh that? That was Twinx.” He said unsure if ‘Twinx’ was an okay subject for me. “Oh okay. Bye. Take care.” Was all I said, since ‘chocolate’ was not an okay subject for me. “Bye.” Then he hugged me so tight as if he didn’t’ want to let me go, I felt like crying again, I missed him so much. And throughout the night, that was the moment that I really felt his presence. There’s that feeling that he’s still there for me. When we finally let go of each other he saw my tears and wiped it away. “You know I hate seeing you cry.” He told me. “It’s ‘cause I really missed you. Okay okay. Bye Pare.” I said. Then he kissed me on my cheek. “Don’t cry anymore, okay? Bye Pare.” he said and went inside his car. “Okay. Take care. Drive safely.” I answered and went inside. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
Chapter 6: Unrequited Love After that, our communication went back. Then we started to hang out again, and when he has time he’d call me up just to say hi. Once a week, we’d go out for dinner and watch some movies. Our closeness came back. I was happy about that. I was working late at the hospital one night. When I was about to leave, someone paged me so I ran as fast as I can. When I got there, I saw him standing with my favorite chocolates in hand. I asked him, “What’s up? Is everything okay?” ‘cause I had a quick adrenaline rush, maybe it was because I was still at the hospital that my reaction was like that. But I was curious. “Nothing. I just wanted to stop by and see if you’re okay.” He said. “Oh, I’m a mess, I’ve been running around all day and I still haven’t eaten. What are the chocolates for?” I finally calmed down. “Oh, these? I thought maybe you’d like some. I know it’s your pick-me-up food.” He said handing them over. “Really? Still sweet as ever. Thanks.” I said taking them. “Are you about to get off?” he asked. “Yes. Actually I was about to go home, when somebody paged me.” I said teasing him. “Good timing then. I was wonderin’…” he started to say. “Hey Hon, ready to go?” one of the doctors suddenly said before Pare could even finish his sentence. “Yes Hon, just a moment.” I turned and answered. Then I suddenly felt nervous, it was like the scene was so awkward. When Pare saw Doc, there was some kind of disappointment in his face, something I can’t explain. So I don’t know if I should introduce them to each other. I kind of panicked, so opted not to. And to think, that my job is about being calm and composed. Anyway, there was also no chance, ‘cause Doc just gave Pare and I a quick smile and headed off to the parking lot. “What were you saying Pare?” I asked trying to keep my cool. “Ah, that was nothing. Umm, Hon??” he asked, obviously referring to Doc. I didn’t get the chance to answer him ‘cause my phone rang, I was pretty sure that was Doc. “Uhh.. I’m sorry Pare.” I said showing my phone, “I’ll go on ahead. I’ll see you around.” “Sure, sure. I’ll call you later. Bye.” Was all he could say. “Okay.” He kissed me at the cheek, then I left. When I got to Doc’s car I saw disappointment in his face, I knew something was wrong. “So, that was him, right?” was how he greeted me, and obviously he was referring to my Pare, “He’s the best friend you could never forget. Right?” he continued looking in my eyes. “Well, yes. But what’s your point? He’s just my friend.” I said looking away. I couldn’t bear to look at his eyes, ‘cause I could see how hurt he was seeing me with Pare. I couldn’t take that. “Yeah, your friend and your first love, that up until now you couldn’t let go of.” He said in a very very disappointed tone. “That’s all in the past. Don’t tell me you’d even get jealous of people from my past?” I asked kind of irritated. “That’s exactly the point. Past. I have to compete with your past!” He answered angrily. “No one asked you to compete with anyone. Can you just drop it? Please? Take me home. I’ve lost my appetite.” I answered him. I lost my patience. I couldn’t take all these things he’s telling me. “But you haven’t eaten yet.” He said. “I said I want to go home.” I said without looking at him. “But you need to eat something.” He said sternly. And that was it. I snapped. I couldn’t take anymore of him. So I got out of the car and walked out on him. What a wonderful timing, I’ve no ride now, just when my car is at the shop. I had no choice so I dialed the number of the one person who would never let me down. I called Pare. “Thanks Pare. It’s a good thing I still caught up with you.” I told him once I have settled down in his car. “No problem. As long as it’s for you. You know me, I can never resist you.” He said. It made me smile of course. It’s a really thing he was still around the block. When I called him, it didn’t even take him 5 minutes to arrive. He’s really my knight in shining armor. He brought me to a nearby fast food chain, then we ate dinner just like before. Then we started talking and talking about different stuffs. It felt good, I felt like I was a teenager again. I was really happy that evening. “So you already have a ‘hon’ and you never even told me.” He opened up out of nowhere. “Ahh. Yes, Doc and I are together. We’ve been together for about a year and a half. We went to the same med school and he was courting me for a really long time. So I figured that it was about time to give love another try. So I did. And you never even asked me before.” I said. Then we both laughed. The topic wandered off again, it seemed like I wasn’t comfortable talking about our love life’s anyway.
Chapter 7: Love story Right after dinner he drove me home. I invited him over again. But this time, instead of coffee, we were going to watch some movies like we used to back in the old days. It was already late, but we wanted to take this opportunity to bond with each other once more. In the middle of one of the movies, he suddenly asked me. “Why did you call me earlier? What was the reason? Weren’t you supposed to be with Doc?” he asked all together, which kind of took me by surprise. “Oh that? That was nothing. We just had an argument over some petty issues.” I said trying to end the topic. I’m not comfortable talking about my fights with my boyfriend even to my closest girlfriends. “Oh okay. How long have you both been together again?” he continued to ask. Suddenly he’s interested in my love life? “Well, we’ve been together for a year and a half.” I reminded him. “OOhh. You both have also been together for quite sometime already. How did you meet? Come on, give me a little history.” He said asking even more questions. “What’s this an interview?” I asked smiling. “Come on Pare, just answer them. I’m just wondering, I’m curious at what has happened to your life since we’ve been apart. Please?” he pleaded me. “Okay, fine. We met at med school, he was my classmate at biology class and we have some common friends but I never really noticed him since I just recently broke up with Drummer Boy. Remember him?” he just nodded so I continued on with my story. “Well, anyway, so there. You know college days, parties everywhere. Then one time one of my closest friend held a party. I didn’t know that she actually set me up on a blind date. And that’s when I met Doc. We started talking. And you know stuff.” I said wrapping up my story. “Med school? And both of you are together for just a year and a half? But med school is like years before.” He said. “Well, actually he courted me when we were already working. He didn’t know how to approach me back at med school. He was too shy.” I said with a little laugh. “So all those years you were single? Seriously Pare?” he asked as if not to believe. “Yes.” I told him. “But that’s too long. And you survived just fine?” he asked with concern in his voice. “Of course! Pare it’s as if I can’t live without a boyfriend! Hahaha!” I answered him while laughing, “and how about you? All through out these years you survived with just one girlfriend?” I asked with a smirk. It was my turn to interview. “Huh? What?” he said, I think he was even planning to deny. “Hello? Earth to Pare? Twinx? You survived having only Twinx as your girlfriend all these years after me.” I said laughing. “And who told you that Twinx was my only girlfriend after you?” he said in a proud tone. “What? I don’t understand.” It confused me. I didn’t get it. “Well as you know, after you Twinx was my second girlfriends. But after sometime we broke up.” He explained. “What? Break? How come I never found out about this?” I asked demandingly. “Duuh. That was the time you were so busy with your little drummer boy.” He pointed out in a tone as if to say that it was my fault. “Why’d you both break up anyway?” I asked. “Why? Well, simple, we didn’t work out.” – him “Why not?” – me “Because she always got jealous of you and all other stuffs. Satisfied?” –him Wow! I was speechless. I didn’t know how to react to that. I was one of the reasons they broke up. Wow. “Anyway, so we broke up. I was single for sometime but my college friends love to set me up to people they know. Until I found someone I like. So I thought, why not give it a try? So I went for it. But eventually we broke up after six weeks. We didn’t get along well. After that relationship, I started dating again. Then I tried another relationship with my officemate. I thought she was the one. I was very serious in that relationship. But life is just a big joke. Just when you’re very serious already, life decides to play with games you.” He paused. “Games?” I asked prompting him to continue. “Just like I said, I was very serious in that relationship. Thinking that she is the girl I could settle with one day. So it was one time she told me she was going to work overtime, she asked me to go on ahead. I was on my way home when I remembered the blueprints of my project at my office, so I went back to get it. Then I saw her making out with one of my friends. So I split up with her right after that night. I was depressed for some time, that’s why I filled my mind with work. Come to think of it, it was because of that incident that I became the president of the firm. So I think it’s just right to thank her.” He finished up dramatically. “Wow! You’ve been through a lot. And Twinx?” I was really curious about ‘chocolate’. “Twinx, well, we’ve been together for two years now.” – him “Two years is also a long time already.” – me “Yes. But I’m getting really tired of our relationship already. There are just some things we both don’t agree upon. You know that feeling? And now, I’ve really met the real Twinx. Her real attitude, her real self.” He said with a sigh. “Like what kind of traits?” I continued my interrogation about ‘chocolate’. “Well, she gets too jealous. She’s even jealous of my job! She even gets jealous of my dogs! And now I’ve seen her obsession of herself. She always wants to be the first priority. I’m really irritated already. But I couldn’t break up with her either.” He said. “And why not?” I asked again. “We’ve both been through a lot already. It’s painful to see all those just go to waste. Right? But sometimes I just really want to say enough. But I just can’t. I don’t know. I don’t get it either.” After saying that. We both became quiet again and just continued to watch the movie. And it was super late. “I think I should head home.” He said. “It’s late, and dangerous even for a man like you. Why don’t you spend that night?” I suggested. “Are you sure?” he asked. “There’s your drama again. Of course it is! Just like old times.” Then I took out the comforter from the closet. After about three more movies, we decided to sleep already. I slept on the couch and he slept on the comforter. He was holding my hand when we were already on our ‘beds’. I had work the next day so needed to sleep. But just couldn’t sleep. I was afraid that if I’d fall asleep I’d wake up and it was all a dream. That by morning Pare would be gone again. “Pare..” he suddenly spoke up. Which surprised me, I didn’t expect him to still be awake. “What do you think would have happened if we’re still together?” he asked. I didn’t answer I didn’t know what might have come out of my mouth. So I kept silent. But there was something about the way he said those words. I don’t know what it was but it had a little sound of regret. I started crying silently, I was reminded of what we were and what we could have been. Until, I cried myself to sleep. •~•~• I take none of the credits.
dalwa pala natapos kolater today ba yung iba. Matapos na. ooopps. i forgot CHAPTER 6: UNREQUITED LOVE •~•~• I take none of the credits.