The Closer I Get To You

HER

If there's one thing that Michelle believes in, it is destiny. Like she has been destined to win the crown as Miss Universe Philippines, or for one, having met the best people in her life.

Before her flight to El Salvador, her friends and family- though they were going with her - planned a send off party. Though Rhian couldn't because of prior commitments.

"Though I won't be there to cheer you on, you know that I'll be with you in spirit, right?" Asked her best friend, while having dinner, sitting beside her.

Michelle grins widely before nodding her head.

"I'm so proud of you, honey. Win or lose," Michelle quirked an eyebrow, causing Rhian to giggle as she rolled her eyes.

"I know you'll win. Get that crown and come back home to me, yes?" She continued.

The smile on her face slowly faded.

"What's wrong?"

Biting her lips, Michelle shakes her head.

"What if I lose? I mean, it's a huge competition. There's going to be so many of us." She sighed heavily. "Just getting a little nervous, I guess. And what if the other ladies wouldn't like me?"

Rhian reached for her hand, clasping it with a reassuring smile.

"What do you mean, what if they won't like you? Honey, just show them who you really are. How awesome of a person you are!"

Already feeling the worries dissipating, "okay, I'll try."

Now it's her best friend's turn to give a playful pout.

"What?" Michelle inquired.

Squinting her eyes directly to her friend.

"But don't get too close to anyone, okay? You're mine." She jested.

The beauty queen knew it was a joke, but there's somewhat a hint of seriousness in her tone of voice.

"Getting possessive, aren't we?"

Rolling her eyes, "so what if I am?"

Not minding the people around them, Michelle feels this conversation is getting slightly serious.

She paused.

"Wait, you're actually thinking of me meeting someone there and that I would replace you? That won't happen. You're my best girl."

"Yeah?"

The short-haired woman bobbed her eagerly.

"Yeah! Sure, I'll meet new people, but I promise you won't be replaced. Besides, I'm only gonna be with them for a few weeks."

Their eyes met and Rhian could see the honesty in her dark, comforting eyes.

"Right, if you say so."

Still not letting go of her hand, Michelle smiles.

"Yes, I say so."

But before she could respond, Michelle's brother interrupted them, teasing the two women about having their own world even in a crowded room.

-

El Salvador

The minute her plane landed, her heartbeat started pounding. She has always been confident, always ready to experience new things, but for the life of her, she didn't realise how big this was.

Miss Universe.

Closing her eyes, Michelle exhaled.

"You can do it. For you, for your family, and for your country." She thought, trying to boost her confidence.