On The Brink of Tomorrow

Chapter 4

Describing their schedule as packed would be an understatement. From press conferences to meet-and-greets, private events, and a gala, Michelle wondered if they could make it through the week, and it was only the second day. Michelle felt relieved knowing that the next event wouldn't start until the afternoon, allowing her to catch up on some much-needed rest.

The fan meet-and-greet at the public mall was bound to be a wild event, so Michelle took charge by tapping into her network to boost security measures, all with the approval of both her team and Anntonia's. She knew that people can be unpredictable, especially after last night's event (which she's still reeling over) and she's determined to make sure everything goes off without a hitch this time. With Anntonia's well-being her main priority, Michelle's goal was to ensure this trip was nothing short of amazing for her.

Given her extensive connections and resources, she even toyed with the idea of calling in the Philippines army. But then she imagined how it might overwhelm Anntonia a little, so she ultimately decided against it.

The moment they stepped out of the car, the cacophony of roars and screaming fans filled the air. Throngs of eager supporters gathered outside the mall, and the reception was beyond anything like they had ever imagined, with photographers and fans immediately surging toward them as soon as they came into view.

Anntonia's eyes widened as she took in the chaotic scene, watching the security struggling to keep everything under control. Sensing her discomfort, Michelle quickly reached out, gently grasping her hand. "Relax, I'm here," she reassured Anntonia.

Anntonia flashed Michelle a grateful grin, intertwining their hands as Michelle led her towards the bustling crowd and into the mall, never losing sight of her. The gesture didn't go unnoticed by the fans, further sending them into a frenzy.

The lively host finally introduced the duo on stage, and the pandemonium only intensified. Michelle and Anntonia waved and blew kisses to the crowd, their infectious energy lighting up the entire mall. As the host engaged them in conversation, they effortlessly bounced off each other's humor, eliciting laughter from the audience. 

The host wasted no time engaging the audience by introducing a game that Michelle would soon come to realise would be an endless source of amusement. The game required Anntonia to guess the food she was presented with after taking a bite, which would allow her to try different variations of treats, solely relying on her taste buds. Without hesitation, Michelle volunteered to assist, taking on the role of presenting the food items for Anntonia to sample. 

Soon, Anntonia found herself blindfolded, her fate in Michelle's capable hands. With gentle precision, Michelle couldn't help but be struck by the endearing mix of curiosity and amusement that played across Anntonia's features.

Michelle held up a slice of pineapple for Anntonia to try, anticipating her guess. Anntonia took a playful bite, her lips curling into a mischievous smile beneath the blindfold. "Mango," she declared cheekily, her voice carrying across the crowd.

Gasps and laughter rippled through the audience at Anntonia's unexpected response. Even Michelle, momentarily taken aback, couldn't help but laugh at her partner's playful antics.

Once the dessert crinkles were introduced, Michelle suppressed a laugh as she watched Anntonia take a bite. She moaned in delight, and the powdery treat left a small dusting on her lips.

Without hesitation, Michelle leaned forward and brushed the powder away with a tender gesture, her actions fuelled by instinct more than anything else. It caused a collective gasp from the audience, followed by a wave of high-pitched excitement.

Anntonia paused, her lips curving into a surprised smile. Caught off guard by the gesture, Anntonia's delicate smile lingered on her lips, accompanied by a shy blush that crept onto her cheeks. Michelle felt a rush of warmth spread through her chest at the sight of Anntonia's reaction.