Flowing Rhythm

10

"How would you like your coffee, sir?" I asked the man in front of me who was ordering his food.

"Americano," he replied. I nodded and repeated his order just to make sure I got it right.

"It will be served in less than five minutes, sir. Thank you for ordering. NEXT PLEASE." I emphasized the last words with a smile, then glanced at the time.

It was 9:15 p.m., and people kept arriving for the brand event at our café. I should be happy about how the café was growing, but I couldn't stop thinking about Leo's gig tonight. How could I not miss it? I wanted to be there for him and support him in every achievement. This was a journey toward their success. How could I not be there for him?

It was still early, and I wasn't too late for their gig yet. I started taking customer orders faster and even helped serve when my station was clear.

"Did you suddenly get an adrenaline rush or something?" my co-worker Calihan said with a laugh.

"Can you help me? I need to go by 10 or at least 11. I know we're doing overtime today, but I really need to go. It's important," I asked her for help, hoping she could talk to our boss. But we couldn't reach her—she was busy networking with influential people. It was part of her marketing strategy, and I felt guilty for not giving my full attention.

I've worked for her for a long time. We became friends, and I've grown attached to all the staff here. I should be happy for her and show my support, but my heart and mind were elsewhere.

Some people even recognized me and asked why I was working here. I just smiled. I didn't need to explain my need for money.

We saw an opening to talk to our boss when the person she was chatting with left to get drinks. Cali helped me convince her, and surprisingly, she let me go, with a small deduction in my tips for the day. But I didn't mind, as long as I got my full salary.

It was 10:45 p.m. and I was rushing to get to The Red's gig. Jeisha and Lexi were updating me about the scene. I booked an Angkas for a quicker ride. The roads were busy tonight in Deliciae. I wanted to tell the driver to go faster—there were so many traffic lights! But I didn't want to die either. I still had so many dreams in life.

I arrived at the venue at 11:25 p.m. At that point, my shoulders slumped. I accepted that I probably missed their performance. I walked in, barely aware of myself, surprised to find the place still packed, the band still on stage, and the audience full of energy.

I saw a sparkling light above them. They were cheering for Lennon and Snow. Unfortunately, they had to finish the tour with Snow and keep up their love team act. I felt like all my effort to be here went to waste—just to see Lennon with another girl.

People teased Leo to kiss her. He shrugged, then actually did it. Everyone g, sped and whipped out their phones as Lennon kissed Snow on the cheek. I don't think they were thinking. My soul left my body. My jaw literally dropped. I felt a swirl of jealousy, anger, and heartbreak.

Suddenly, Lexi and Jeisha were beside me. Apparently, someone had pointed the spotlight at me, and everyone gasped again. They knew something was going on between me and Leo. Everyone knew—except, maybe, him.

I couldn't handle being the center of attention. My feet moved on their own, carrying me outside. I could tell Lennon jumped off stage to follow me from the commotion inside. I just couldn't process everything. How could he say he loved me and the kiss another woman—even if it was part of the job? It didn't feel right. It never would. I was done with the drama and attention.

All that rushing just to catch this gig—only to see that? Now people will think I'm Lennon's mistress or something. I can't always be the "other woman."