Tulip's Destiny

XXIX - Figuring It Out

Have you ever just laid there for hours, staring at the ceiling and the heavy feeling in the pit of your stomach just couldn't make sense? Everything went from a vibrant tint of yellows to a bluish gray. Perhaps these are dark values  of a beautifully complex picture or a work of art waiting to reveal itself by time...

"Man! That was some good food!" Raine burped. "Told you." Khalil said proudly, receiving the check. "Oh no, let me." She smiled, taking the paper out of his hand.

"Well, if you say so." He gave in. "Let's head back to the office after. I still need to finish a lot of things."

"Noted. I'll also try and sort out my desk, while I'm there." Raine said, standing up.

On their way back, Raine insisted ok stopping by the gallery to which Khalil approved of. As she walked by the glass doors, she was filled in awe. The gallery was graced by modern architecture. It was like she was coming here for the first time. The receptionist greeted them, "Hello, how can I help you? We have a solo exhibit, altered state—-"

"Ms. Buenez! Oh how lovely seeing you again!" A man in his late forties greeted dressed formally, hugging her.

"Uh..." Raine was taken aback, pulling away to se his face before it could register to her mind fully. "Ah! Well, of course I may be irresistible, but my face is someone you could easily forget." He chuckled. "Mr. Martinez?" She asked cautiously receiving a slight nod from him. "I'm sorry. On the other hand, you were not the only one I forgot..."

"In fact, she couldn't remember anyone." Khalil chirped.

"May I take you on tour?" Mr. Marinez asked, offering an arm. Raine looked at Khalil for approval before she held him by the arm. "Text me when to pick you up." Khalil said, hugging her goodbye.

They floated around, looking at the display while catching up with each other. If you were to look at them from a far, surely they will look like a father and daughter having good time. Towards the end of the tour, Mr. Martinez spoke. "Please consider us to be the home of your pieces once again. I will be delighted to see what you're working on."

"You don't even have to ask!" She giggled. "I'll call immediately."

"Oh and Raine, the gallery will be hosting a masquerade ball in honor of our culture and heritage next week. I'd like you to attend. It'll be helpful for you to meet fellow artists." He continued.

"Then I better go search for our heirloom Filipiniana." Raine chuckled, bowing in sign of respect. "Thank you for today, Mr. Martinez."

"See you soon, Ms. Buenez."

She walked out of the building with happy heart. Towards the afteroon, Mia's feet got tired from all the walking making her extremely hungry. Raine didn't even noticed how long she has been there. Time must have flew right pass them. Khalil texted her that Lara will bring the car with her instead as he had to attend something urgent.

They met and had lunch in an open-air restaurant, they continued along. Along the way, an amazing view opened in front of them, and the girl got out of the car to admire it. Lara went after her, looking at the seemingly ordinary street filled with cultural houses. But to Raine, all this felt new. The weather was clear and the bright light hurt her eyes. The town turned out to be no less beautiful in the afternoon. Lost in her thoughts, Raine looked at the city through the window. "Lara, let's head back to the office."

"Sure." Lara said. "Maybe going back to your apartment will also help you with your memories. Shall we go there, as well?"

"Uh-huh." Raine nodded.