Written On A Canvas

Chapter 28

Chapter 28

I started feeling awkward so I let go of his hand and took a step back. I heaved a deep breath before looking at him, who was sporting a grin. He slid his hands on both of his pockets as he stood confidently.

Ten years.

Ten years and we're standing in front of each other again.

"First of all, Mr. Velasquez, thank you for granting our request," Reby said formally. She put her hands together to execute a stunt of gratitude by bowing a little and doing it quickly.

Zibon chortled. "Actually, it's an honor to be chosen as your... location. It will be a big help for my gallery's exposure." He interchangeably looked at me and Reby as he was talking. He's just calm and composed.

That made me fix how I stood and eyed him.

A lot has changed about him, that I can notice. His hair was really short this time compared to the last time I saw him. I never pictured him in a clean cut because I didn't think he would ever cut his hair. How he stands changed, too. He became more proud, more confident. His body was more bulk, more masculine. Even with his clothes, you could see how toned he is.

The only thing that remained unaltered was the color of his eyes. But how his eyes shine? It was more fierce this time.

"Ah, yes! Because our director over here," Reby gestured her hands at me as if presenting me to them. "Needs an art gallery for his film. We couldn't find one that hasn't been used as film locations before so this is really, really a big help."

Mr. Fortalejo spoke. "It must be what is called right timing, then," and sported a grin.

I tried to get myself to speak but it was as if the cat got my tongue. I normally engage with conversations especially when it concerns my film but I can't find the right words to utter. And my heavy breathing isn't helping.

Isaiah, get yourself together.

"You just saved us a week of scouting galleries, Mr. Fortalejo," I said forcibly but still with professionalism. I showed him a thin smile.

He shook his head. "The credits should be directed to our boss," and he looked at the man between them. "It was his call to grant your request."

Zibon still has that smile. It was a small one but with ease. He looked at me as soon as his assistant manager was done speaking. He was just receiving the compliment as if he gets them on a daily basis.

Without being evident, I drew a deep breath. "Thank you, Mr. Velasquez. Really." I forced myself a soft smile just to appear genuine. I didn't break eye contact so that he'd think I'm not uncomfortable.

"Not a problem at all," he answered without hesitation, sounding so professional. "If you like, we could give you a tour tonight. Or can we set a date for that?"