Just Hold Tight (Bittersweet Solitude Series #1)

Chapter 08

The Crash

. . .

"Ethan, I'll be gone for a few days," he said, flashing his usual confident smile. "But I'll call you every night."

"Be careful, okay?" sabi ko sa kaniya, trying to hide the unease I felt. He was excited about an upcoming work trip—a conference for nurses that he had been looking forward to for months. Marco's job often took him to different places, and while I was proud of him, I couldn't help but worry.

"Of course, babe," he replied, giving me a quick kiss on the forehead. "You know I always am."

We spent the evening together, talking about his trip and our plans for the future. "Excited talaga ako sa trip na 'to," Marco said, his eyes lighting up as he described the conference. "Makakakita ako ng mga bagong techniques at makakapag-network with other nurses."

Nagluto kami ng paborito niyang pasta, a creamy carbonara with crispy bacon. The smell of garlic and cheese filled the kitchen, making our small apartment feel warm and inviting.

"I can't wait for you to try this," I said, smiling as I stirred the sauce. "I added a little extra parmesan, just how you like it."

"Alam mo talaga kung paano paligayahin ako," Marco replied, his eyes sparkling with affection. He set the table with our favorite wine glasses and lit a few candles, creating a cozy atmosphere. Napairap ako sa kaniya.

"Edi wow. Ang dami mong alam."

We sat down to eat, enjoying the simple yet delicious meal.

"This is perfect," Marco said between bites. "It's moments like these that make all the hard work worth it."

I smiled and agreed, taking a sip of wine.

"I love these quiet evenings with you. It's like we have our own little world."

After dinner, we moved to the living room and cuddled on the couch.

"So, after the conference, what do you want to do?" Marco asked, his fingers gently running through my hair.

"Siguro mag-vacation tayo," I suggested, leaning into his touch. "We could go somewhere we've never been before. Just the two of us."

"I like that idea," Marco said, smiling. "Kailangan natin ng break from all the stress. Just you and me, enjoying each other's company."

As the night wore on, we talked about our dreams and aspirations, sharing our hopes for the future.

"It's going to be amazing, Marco. I can't wait," I whispered, feeling a warmth spread through my chest.

We stayed up late, savoring each other's presence, knowing that we had a strong foundation built on love and mutual respect.

"I'm so grateful for you," Marco said out of nowhere, holding me close. "You've made my life so much better, Ethan."

Lumingon ako sa kaniya at nakitang nakatingin ito ng direkta sa aking mga mata. I smiled.

"Ikaw din," I replied, my voice full of emotion. "You've shown me what it means to truly love and be loved."

Eventually, we went to bed, wrapped in each other's arms. "Goodnight, my Ethan," Marco murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead.

"Goodnight, Marco," I replied, feeling a deep sense of contentment.

"I love you."

"I love you too," he whispered, and we drifted off to sleep, our hearts full and our future looking bright.