What Went Wrong?

3; the golden sunset

chapter 3; the golden sunset
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Ash

"Sa bundok?" Drei asked, his eyebrows furrowed in a mix of surprise and curiosity.

"Oo, sa bundok," I affirmed, "Isn't that where you see the most breathtaking sunset?" I questioned, hoping to dispel his confusion. He gave me a look that was a blend of bewilderment and intrigue. I couldn't help but maintain a poker face, "What's wrong with that?"

His confusion was replaced by a slow, understanding smile. "I'm just puzzled. The idea of you bringing her there, it's kind of unique," he admitted, his smile growing wider, "This is the first time I've heard of a date in the mountains—"

I couldn't help but return his smile. "Yeah, I just wanted to make her feel special, just like how she is to me. She's one of a kind," I expressed, my smile never leaving my face. He patted my shoulder, a gesture of camaraderie and understanding.

His smile turned into a knowing grin. "You're really in love with her, aren't you?" he asked, a sparkle in his eyes, "I've never seen you this happy, Ash. I hope it stays this way. I honestly don't know what I'd do if the smile we rarely see on your face disappears."

His words warmed my heart. "Thank you, Drei," I said, my voice brimming with gratitude.

His face scrunched up in confusion. "Thank me for what?" He asked, a puzzled look on his face.

"For your unwavering support, Drei," I began, my voice steady and sincere. "I know that Izza is your best friend, that you've always been protective of her. It's like she's your little sister, someone you'd shield from any harm."

I paused, taking a moment to gather my thoughts. "And yet, here you are, giving me your blessing. Allowing me to court her, to win her heart, to be a part of her life. It's not something I take lightly."

My gaze met his, a silent acknowledgment of our friendship. "I've always known you to be the teasing type, always ready with a quick joke or a light jab. But lately, those teasing remarks have turned into words of encouragement, of support."

I smiled, a genuine expression of my gratitude. "I just want to thank you for trusting me with her, for believing in me enough to let me pursue her. I don't know why or how those playful jibes turned into supportive words, but I'm grateful. So, thank you, Drei."

"No big deal, dude," Drei started, a light-hearted chuckle escaping his lips. "I know you've got a good heart. We've been friends for a decade now, how could I not know you inside and out?"

His words were laced with a casual sincerity that only years of friendship could bring. He knew me - my strengths, my weaknesses, my quirks, and my habits. He saw through my facade when I tried to hide my feelings, and he was there for me during my highs and lows.

"Transparent ka kaya," he continued, his laughter echoing in the room. It was a simple statement, yet it held a deeper meaning. He was saying that I was an open book to him, that he could see through my actions and words, that he understood me on a level that few others did.

At his words, I couldn't help but face palm. "Here we go again," I muttered, but there was no real annoyance in my voice. Instead, it was filled with fond exasperation and a hint of amusement. It was just another one of those moments that defined our friendship - full of jests, laughter, and deep understanding.

"Let's get going, Avi might be looking for us already," I suggested, trying to mask the excitement in my voice. I reached for the suitcase we had packed together, the weight of it a tangible reminder of the adventure that lay ahead. With a firm grip, I pulled it behind me, the wheels echoing on the staircase as we descended.