Chasing Endless Sunsets

Chapter 16

"Would you already like to order?" the served asked us.

"Hi. I'll have creamy shrimp risotto. Then a glass of sparkling wine please." I smiled at her. I could see from the corner of my eye that he was still looking at the menu and his brows were furrowed.

He's probably going to order truffle pasta or seafood. It's usually his go to.

"How about you, sir?"

He looked up. "A glass of Sauvignon Blanc. And the pesto ravioli please."

"Anything else? Do you want to try our appetizers?" the server asked.

"The Italian cold cuts," we said in unison and looked up from the menu and glanced at each other. The server smiled at both of us.

"That would be one order of Italian cold cuts, creamy shrimp risotto, pesto ravioli, a glass of sparkling wine, and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc," she recapped.

We both nodded at her.

When the server left, there was just silence. It was like both of us didn't know what to say. It was funny how things have changed. Dati, when we see each other, even before one of us gets to settle down, we'd already be engaged in nonstop conversation.

"How are you?" he asked while looking at me almost devoid of any emotion.

"I'm well, thanks. Ikaw?" I asked back.

"I'm good, thanks," he replied.

Then there was silence again.

It was a bit unnerving to be in his presence and have all this silence engulf us. Hindi ako sanay. Ever since I met him, he had always been warm and friendly. It was the very reason why I felt comfortable with him even when we were practically strangers then. Pero ano nga ba ineexpect ko? Did I really think that we'd catch up and pick up where we left off once we saw each other again after so many years?

I plopped myself on the couch when I got home. I covered my mouth with my palm. Wtf just happened?

I still couldn't believe that I saw him tonight. Xavi was so different now though. He felt so formal. Parang ibang tao na siya.

I went to my instagram messages and scrolled down until I found his name. I paused and stared at my screen. I clicked on his name and scrolled up.

xavinotjavi

Kayla, please, let's talk. I tried calling you but your number's no longer reachable. I went to your condo but they said you already left. I don't want to do this over instagram message. I can fly to Manila so we can talk in person. Please tell me how I can see you.

xavinotjavi

Please, Kayla. Let's talk.

Just tell me how I can reach you. Or where I should go to see you.

xavinotjavi

Are you okay? Did you get to Manila safely?

xavinotjavi

sent a photo

Dustin misses you.

I miss you. Come on, Kayla. Please.

xavinotjavi

Happy Christmas, Kayla.

You know what my wish is? To see you and get to talk to you again. Hangout with you. Have lazy days with you. Talk about anything with you. And see that smile on your beautiful face and hear you laugh.