Tulip's Destiny

XXXII - Should Have Been

Two years have passed and they started dating exclusively. He went to her parents' court for their approval until Raine said yes to him.

"Are you sure about this?" Lara asked, wrapping plates on a newspaper. "Lara, we talked about this already." Raine sighed, walking up to her. "I know. But, don't you think you're moving too fast?" Lara reasoned. "I've already thought about this. I know how you and Gelo don't get along too well, but please just give him a chance." Raine said, hugging her friend from the back. "You know I love you and I will support you in everything that makes you happy... but I don't know about this. Something feels off." Lara turned to Raine over her shoulder. "But if you're really determined. I'll be here for you." She continued. "You're the best!  That's why I love you!" Raine exclaimed, swaying them together in a hug.

After packing for a bit, Raine decided to get a cab to the gallery. It's been years since the accident, but she still couldn't muster up the courage to drive again. Once she arrived, she headed to her curator's office. Raine knocked faintly, before slowly opening the door. "Mr. Martinez?"

"Ms. Buenez! Please, do come in.." He motioned in. "I've compiled my works..." Raine started, sitting in front of him. "It's nothing like the first exhibit and this one's a totally different perspective and technique I used." She went on, handing a binder to him. He quickly went over the pages. The silence had been killing her in anticipation, so she decided to break it, "I came here personally to show it to you. You see... waking up from a coma was harder than being on it. I was greeted by faces I could not remember. And I couldn't recount times I've cried at night, trying to remember who I was. They say art is a celebration of suffering, but painting them made me realize how beautiful a person can be. It was one the most ethereal, magical experiences I've had..."

"Ms. Buenez, I don't know how to start this." He began. "I see, it's fine. I could just—" Raine said. "No, this... all this is magnificent. I am lost for words. Truly, you have captured more than just their faces, but their souls. I'm honored to be one of these. If you'll allow me, I'd personally want to buy this. That is, if you agree?" Mr. Martinez continued.

"Of course!" Raine stood up, bowing in respect. "Thank you so so much." She said, grabbing his hand for a shake. "Continue painting and creating these pieces, you have a gift for it and your perseverance does not fail you as well." He smiled.

Walking out of the gallery, she saw Gelo leaning against the car waiting for her. Raine quickly ran up to him, she hugged him tight. He pulled her closer, raking her hair gently. "What happened?" Gelo asked, kissing her head. "It went well. I just want to thank you for sticking through..." She mumbled, pressing against him with longingness. "Tulip... it's okay. I'm here now." He whispered, cradling her with warmth. Gelo pulled away, reaching for her cheeks. "Shall we celebrate?" Raine just nodded and they got in the car.

They arrived at her parents' house just in time for merienda. "Mom, Dad, we're here." Raine called out, as Gelo opened the gate. "Ate!" Shaiya hugged her, following Hail immediately throwing herself at Raine. "Oh, sweet little angel! I missed you two." She hugged back. "Hi! Kuya Gelo!" Shaiya greeted. He just gave her a warm smile, patting her head. "You're growing up so fast."

Hail stood firmly, growling at him intensely. He kneeled down to try and pet the dog, but Hail backed away still growling at him. "Hail, that's mommy's boyfriend." Raine sweet talked, hugging the furry. "It means he's your daddy." Hail quickly resisted, running back to the house. "Give her time." Shaiya chuckled, helping with the foods they brought. They sat onto the veranda, laughing and eating snacks. "You two are already old and responsible. I hope you know what you're doing." Dad started making the atmosphere more serious. "Yes, tito." Gelo nodded. "A relationship is not like hot rice you can spit out if you can't handle the heat. Be very accountable to each other." Dad continued, drinking himself a cup of water. "I promise I will take care of her. Put her first above everything else." Gelo replied. Dad gave him a nod of appreciation before turning to Raine with a smile.