My Ever After

who makes you smile the brightest

They were just in time to watch the sunset at the Basco Lighthouse. The lighthouse is probably the most photographed site in Batanes. It provides a view of luxurious greenery and majestic open sea. One will be gifted the chance of a three hundred sixty view of the island.

During their younger years, Lee and Tay would often set schedules to watch the sunset and wait until it welcomes the night sky. Lola would usually prepare them packed dinner as it would take them long hours of just chilling at the lighthouse. The old folks in the community would call them stargazers for their great fascination with the night heavenly bodies.

This place never fails to mesmerize me, Tay points out.

Yeah, it keeps getting better each time, Lee adds.

A long silence followed. Tay found himself staring at the twilight, that moment when the sunset waits patiently for nightfall. It's one of his favorite times, when everything just looked perfectly stunning. The unfolding of hues sent him snapshots of moments with New. He realizes he really misses him.

So, what do you know about my story now? He turns to Lee with a soft chuckle. Pretty sure Lola spilled the beans already. I mean, you two are very close so sometimes I wonder if I'm the grandchild or you are.

Lee responds with a laugh. Nahh, she didn't mention the details. But she did say it's about New and it's the usual story of runaway Tay.

New. Yes, that's his name. Are you surprised that he is...?

That he's a guy? Not really, Lee responds with an embarrassed laughter. You know how Lola can be too nosy about things. So, she would gather bits of information from your squad about what he sees on their Facebook with you in it. She would piece together and tell me her theories when I visit. You know she'd pass as an investigator if she wants to.

Tay shakes his head in amazement. He finds it rather cute than annoying, his Lola's ways.

Do you know the sound of a heart that wants to fly free but is just plain scared to do so? Tay asks sincerely.

I suppose so, Lee ponders. I think I may have experienced it at one point in my life. But I believe every heartbeat is different. As the owner of every heart is also different.

I just realized that I've been carrying that sound for a long time. So many times. I hear it everytime I watch New in silence. I hear it with his burst of laughter. I hear it when we share glances; when he throws me unexpected pickup lines; or steal kisses, Tay sends a smile. I hear it even in times we'd have arguments. Everytime, everyday even at times that I am not with him. You know that feeling "so near yet so far?"

Lee didn't know how to respond to the question. I'm not sure how to answer that Tay. All I know is that, when we keep putting ourselves in a cage even if we know it's not locked up, it's pretty much like holding on to nothing. It's depriving ourselves of what we deserve, or what time has really prepared for us. I think that's the saddest thing we can do to ourselves.

Tay quietly nods in agreement. Mmm, I think so too.

Lee tries to lighten the mood up. Remember when we were kids and PMuk would always ask Lola about how we would know if it's the right prince or princess destined for us?

Yeah, I think so. Tay tries to start a recollection, it's something about a smile. Right?

See, you remember. Lola said, go for the person who makes you smile the brightest. Funny, you may find it, but we've seen pictures of you together. You hadn't the slightest idea. He does make you smile, Tay. Like really smiling. Lola said, it's so true that it makes your eyes bright. Lee shares, a bit embarrassed with his observation.

You're sounding so much like Lola. Tay replies with a soft laugh. But yeah, I get you. Tay exhales deep. Be honest with me. What's one word that best fits me right now? Stupid? Dull? Foolish? Idiot? Coward? Weakling? Chicken? Scaredy-cat? Miserable?

Honestly? Lee answers affectionately while scratching his head. All of that and more, Tay. But I bet you're not too late yet to make up for it.

Tay laughed out loud and pokes Lee on the head. You really don't know how to spare me of your brutality.

The two continued to share a few more laughs. I miss him huge, Lee. If only I could fly to him right now. I'll see you soon Hin, Tay whispers a bit loudly.

Ahh, Tay Tawan in love! And I'm sure he misses you too. Lee replies, and then his phone rings.

Okay Lola! Loud and clear.

Lola? Is she asking us to go home now?

Hmm.. not really. She just told me that her Lazada delivery has arrived and will go straight here.

What? Lazada delivery? Tay asks confused.

Yeah, any minute now. Let me get it for you.

The night sky is now graced with a sheet of stars winking one by one. Chords of the crescent moon spilled across the sea. It was a captivating scene. It was like night's way of saying, "something lovely is happening tonight."

Lazada delivery for Tawan Vihokratana.

Cold breeze blows and sends shivers to Tay. Loud pulse fills his ears. He turns around.

Special Delivery, echoes a familiar voice.

Hin?