SOUL SNATCHERS

CHAPTER 11

As they embraced the island's enchanting beauty, the salty air made Rose sneeze, triggering her allergies. The sun's intense rays threatened to scorch their skin, but the slowly drifting clouds unveiled the clear late-morning sky. The weather was sweltering, and the suffocating humidity drenched their bodies in sweat. Excitement surged as Henry leaped onto the powdery white sand, followed by the rest of the group, in awe of the island's breathtaking scenery.

"The Little Boracay of Zambales, they called it, and now I can see why," Vanessa remarked, her attire a mix of dark shades, a snug sleeveless shirt, and floral shorts. The gusty wind nearly carried away her buri hat.

"This place is simply stunning! Let's explore, guys!" Argel urged, striding purposefully on the powdery sand.

"An ideal spot for camping and spending the night," Henry agreed.

"You're right, Henry! We'll have an unforgettable night, a true paradise here on Potipot Island!" Argel exclaimed, showcasing his dance moves before landing softly on the ground.

Interrupting the excitement, Rose cleared her throat, her voice tinged with sadness. "As much as I would love to stay with you until tomorrow, I cannot. My allergies are acting up, my nose is red, and the medication I took is making me drowsy. On top of that, my parents don't know I'm here." She hesitated, aware that leaving after her friends had made this journey for her would be unfair. Deep down, she thought about her parents' worry in her absence.

"Don't be a buzzkill, Rose. We're here to enjoy your company! We've all longed for this gathering, and we've traveled more than four hours just to be with you," Vanessa reassured her, sensing Rose's guilt. Rose pondered for a moment, torn between her friends and her family's expectations.

"Alright, I'll stay until 5 p.m. I'll call my parents, let them know I'm with you, and that I'll return by then," Rose agreed, willing to compromise.

Mercy interjected firmly, "No, Rose. You must stay with us until tomorrow morning."

"Guys, I urge you to understand. My parents are unaware of my departure from the hotel. I left a note in our room, but I didn't ask for their permission. I simply requested that I'll return before lunch," Rose explained, her determination evident as she hoped her friends would empathize. Lourdes exchanged a meaningful glance with Mercy, silently hatching a plan.

"I have a suggestion," proposed Lourdes, "Let Karl, as Rose's boyfriend, decide whether she stays overnight or returns to the hotel by 5 p.m."

Karl's surprise was palpable as he heard Lourdes' suggestion.

"Why me?" Karl asked, his face reddening with embarrassment.

"Because you're her boyfriend! It only makes sense," Lourdes responded, seeking the group's approval.

"Yeah!" The group unanimously chimed in.

Breaking into a smile, Karl met Rose's eyes and said, "Actually, I believe Rose should make her own decision. But know that whatever you choose, Rose, we're with you," he declared, his affection for his girlfriend evident.

"No, Karl, it shouldn't be that way. It's your decision," Lourdes teased playfully, her giggle filled with mischief. Agnes, lost in thought and observing the activities along the shoreline, initially failed to grasp the unfolding conversation.

"Huh? What's happening?" Agnes asked, her confusion apparent.

"My, Agnes! We're having such a great time, but it seems your mind is elsewhere," Mercy remarked, laughing.

Vanessa shot a stern look at Lourdes, signaling an end to the mockery. Rose felt a pang of sympathy for Agnes and couldn't bear to witness her discomfort.