Look of Love

Chapter 27

I started creating a happier version of me. I roamed around the city. I paint every scenery that I saw. I talked to so many strangers on the streets. I joined art charity events. My name became popular in the industry of literature arts. Almost all of the artists here wants to meet me. I was so busy and... happy. It was my routine for the last few months.

Yes. I was hailed as the winner.

I fucking won.

I smirked when I saw my face on the billboard near El Artistre. Kumuha ako ng maraming litrato 'non.

"Miss Maxi Anne! El Artistre proudly presents this year's winner under Painting Category!"

I cried so hard when they shouted my name.

All of the other contestants congratulated me.

It was almost perfect, but I received my award alone.

I celebrated with my friends, but I carry my trophy and awards alone on the way home.

My friends said I did well.

I did well.

I just wish they saw.

I posted a picture of me that day. Kagat kagat ko ang gintong medalya na nakasuot sa leeg ko. Hawak ko ang trophy sa kamay ko. Bumaha agad ng pagbati at papuri galing sa mga followers ko.

shariahmaxi and if it's meant for me, it will be mine.

Deserve ko 'to ipagyabang.

"You are so secretive!"

Tumawa ako kay Max sa kabilang linya. He was so hysterical when he called me.

"I'm so mad at you. Why didn't you tell me?"

I just chuckled.

"I didn't get to witness the achievement you've achieved while you're always there on mine..." wala sa sarili niyang sambit dahilan para mawala ang ngiti ko.

"It's fine! Ano ka ba!" ngiti ko.

They all wanted to displayed my winning artwork on the museum, but I declined. They were kind enough to understand that I want to bring it home with me. At isa pa, may plano na ako doon. Because out of all the arts that I made, this one's my favorite. Gusto ko 'tong iuwi sa Pinas.

Because it's him.

Siya ang ginuhit ko. Pinanglaban ko siya, kaya siya ang dahilan ng pagkapanalo ko.

I bought a ragdoll cat. I treat myself to an amusement park date. I dyed my hair a lot of times. I visited a lots of museums and galleries.

Ang dami kong nagagawa mag-isa.

It was the happiest moments of my life.

My heart feels so full. And my soul feels so alive.

I really couldn't ask for more.

Ang saya ng buhay ko dito.

Famous actors and actresses were lining up to do a commission with me. Mabilis naging matunog ang pangalan ko, dahil na din sa hatak ng pangalan ng EA na nakakabit sa akin. Iyon ang naging trabaho ko at nagpabuhay sa akin. Simula pag-aaral pa lang, nagtatabi na ako ng pera. So right now, I can say that I'm quite wealthy on my own.

I like it here. In the Philippines, artists are not recognized enough. Here, my skills are appreciated.

Inabot ako ng isa pang taon sa sobrang pagkaliwaliw ko dito. One time, Mom asked me what's holding me back from coming home. Minsan lang tumawag si Mommy sa'kin, kaya wala na akong nasagot nang sinermunan niya ako.