A Diamond Between Us

Prologue

This story is entirely a work of fiction, born from the author's imagination. All events, characters, and settings are fictional. Any reference to real-world locations is purely for narrative purposes and should not be interpreted as a reflection of reality.

I hope this message finds you well and that you enjoy immersing yourself in this tale.

Please be advised that the story contains language, themes, and events that may not be suitable for younger readers. Reader discretion is strongly recommended, as some scenes include sensitive or potentially triggering content.

***

"I love you. See you later." In-end ko na 'yong tawag niya.

I found myself lost in the silence, staring at my reflection in the mirror.

Isn't it ironic how all the time, days, and moments you share with someone you believed would last forever turn out to be nothing more than a trial run—a practice for the person you're truly destined to be with?

We might think we're happy, but there comes a moment when life brutally reminds us how cruel it can be. It wakes us up, forcing us to realize that what we thought was love was merely a fleeting glimpse of it.

You and I made a promise to each other, but perhaps we were never truly meant to be together forever.

Is love truly so uncertain?

Nabubuhay lang ba talaga tayo sa walang kasiguraduhan? 

Why does the feeling of unease about life come so suddenly?

I used to believe life was like a diamond ring—precious, meaningful, and capable of making you feel special. I thought the aisle was the final path you walk with the one destined for you...

But I was wrong. The sparkle fades. We can't turn back time to reignite the brilliance because the dimness has already claimed its place.

"Hey, are you ready?"

I was startled and quickly turned around as Blare's words echoed in my ears, wrapping around me like a sudden breeze.

"Gago ka talaga. Mahilig ka talaga manggulat!" 

Natawa siya, gago talaga!

"I wanted to surprise you. Anyway, are you ready?" Hinawakan niya 'yong sandalan ng swivel chair na inuupuan ko at pinaikot iyon paharap sa table kung saan niya ako naabutan na nag-aayos.

I'm excited, of course!

Today is the day I witness someone very dear to me getting married. She deserves this—she deserves happiness, after everything. At last, she has found someone who can make her life feel like a fairy tale. Both of them hold a special place in my heart, and I will support them, no matter what.

"Yeah. I'm ready, let's go."

Masaya akong tumayo, tapos naman na ako mag-ayos nang dumating siya kaya pwede na kaming umalis at pumunta sa simbahan. Anong oras na rin, hindi kami pwede ma-late.

Bago kami tuluyang lumabas ng kwarto ko, hinarap ko si Blare at tiningnan siya. He looked exceptionally good today, so I couldn't help but smile. Ang gwapo ng best friend ko.

"Thank you, Blare." He furrowed his brows, just as I expected. "You are really my best friend." I hugged him.

"Oo naman," he said, gently patting my back. "You'll always have me, Jino."

"Hindi ko na hahayaang maulit iyon, hindi na ako papayag na mawala ka ulit sa tabi ko," he added. He tapped my head before pulling away from the hug.

"I'm sorry at salamat talaga. You never failed to feel me that I'm important to you, and that is something I'm really grateful for, Blare." I smiled. "Tara na? Baka ma-late tayo, special day nila 'to." Hinawakan ko kamay niya sabay hatak sa kaniya palabas ng kwarto ko, natawa lang siya.

Sumalubong sa amin pagkalabas namin sa bahay ang kotse niya na gagamitin namin para makarating sa simbahan. Wala na kaming sinayang na oras at umalis na rin agad, pareho kaming excited para sa wedding na 'to.

Naririnig ko na ang bell ng church, ibig sabihin noon ay malapit na kami. Napatingin kami at nginitian ang isa't-isa. I and Blare are wearing the same attire for today's wedding. A white polo with a black bow tie, a tuxedo, a pair of black slacks, and black patent leather shoes. Pareho kaming pogi ngayon.

"We're here."

Tumingin sa'kin si Blare, nakangiti bago niya hinawakan ang kamay ako at agad na hinatak papasok sa loob ng simbahan.

I think the wedding theme is perfect for them. It truly suits their personalities. I know she loves flowers, and her husband wanted a simple yet elegant design. To be honest, they own the church today.

When we entered the church, my dad gave me a quick hug, followed by my mom. I sat in the front row, with Blare just behind me in the second row.

Wow... I was speechless when I saw her.

The bride is here! She's finally here. The long wait is over...

I saw her eyes shining, and her gown—so sexy yet so elegant. She is the most stunning bride I've ever seen. The lace appliqué wedding gown was perfect for her, and she held a beautiful bouquet of roses in her right hand, while her father's arm supported her on the other side, guiding her down the aisle.

Before the ceremony started, she looked at me, offering a brief smile and a flying kiss. Then, she stepped forward with her groom to face the priest.

Our eyes met. I saw him staring at me, giving me a small smile.

I smiled back at him...

I'm happy for you both now.

Best wishes!

꧁⚜ꕥ⚜꧂

This story is about the LGBTQIA+ community. All opinions and viewpoints expressed are those of the author.

I hope you're enjoying your time and staying safe. Please feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts and suggestions so I can continue to improve my work. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

- jpaerry

mwah!