Love Across Time

Chapter 2

***March 16, 2011

A year had passed since Marvin and Zeke's memorable celebration of Araw ng Dabaw. As they embarked on their respective career paths, their lives had taken different but equally fulfilling trajectories.

Zeke found himself immersed in the world of education, working as a full-time Review Instructor at a reputable review center in Davao near Roxas Avenue. With a passion for teaching and a knack for breaking down complex concepts, Zeke thrived in his role, inspiring and empowering his students to reach their full potential.

"Class, let's dive into the intricacies of this topic," Zeke exclaimed, his voice carrying across the classroom filled with eager students. "Who can tell me the key principles we discussed in our last session?"

A hand shot up in the air, and a student eagerly volunteered an answer. Zeke nodded approvingly, encouraging further discussion and debate among the group.

Meanwhile, Marvin had embarked on a dynamic career in sales, serving as the Full-time Regional Sales Manager of a prominent vehicle brand around Lanang, Davao. With his natural charisma and keen business acumen, Marvin excelled in his role, forging strong relationships with clients and driving impressive sales figures for the company.

"Marvin, we need to discuss our strategy for the upcoming product launch," his supervisor remarked, leaning back in his chair with a serious expression.

Marvin nodded, leaning forward attentively. "Absolutely, let's brainstorm some innovative ideas to capture the market's attention," he replied, his mind already buzzing with possibilities.

Despite their busy schedules, Marvin and Zeke made a concerted effort to stay connected, meeting up for lunch or grabbing a coffee whenever their hectic schedules allowed.

"It's been a whirlwind of a year, hasn't it?" Zeke remarked, taking a sip of his coffee as he settled into his seat across from Marvin.

Marvin nodded, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Definitely. But I wouldn't have it any other way. How about you? How's the teaching life treating you?" he asked, genuinely curious about Zeke's experiences.

Zeke chuckled, running a hand through his hair. "It's been challenging, but incredibly rewarding. There's nothing quite like seeing the light bulb go off in a student's mind when they finally understand a difficult concept," he replied, a sense of pride evident in his voice.

As another Araw ng Dabaw approached, Marvin and Zeke reflected on how much had changed in the past year. Though their paths had diverged, they remained steadfast in their friendship and support for one another, united by a shared sense of ambition and determination to chase their dreams.

They raised their glasses in a toast to another year of growth and opportunity. Marvin and Zeke knew that the best was yet to come. 

When the familiar buzz of excitement surrounding Araw ng Dabaw filled the air once again, Marvin and Zeke found themselves reminiscing about their journey over the past year. They had come a long way since their graduation, and their friendship had only grown stronger with time.

"Can you believe it's been a year already?" Marvin mused, taking a sip of his coffee as he leaned back in his chair.

Zeke nodded, a nostalgic smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating on the streets here. Time really does fly," he replied, his gaze drifting out the window to the bustling city below.

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of Zeke's phone buzzing on the table. With a quick glance, he saw a message from one of his former students, thanking him for his guidance and support throughout their review sessions.

"It's messages like these that make it all worth it," Zeke remarked, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. "Knowing that I've made a difference in someone's life—it's truly humbling."

Marvin smiled, feeling a swell of admiration for his friend. "You're making a real impact, Zeke. I'm proud of you," he said sincerely, clapping him on the shoulder.

Their conversation turned to Marvin's career in sales, with Zeke eagerly listening as Marvin recounted the challenges and triumphs he had experienced in his role as Regional Sales Manager. They exchanged stories and advice, finding comfort and camaraderie in each other's shared experiences.

One afternoon, as they sat in their favorite café, Marvin's phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the screen and answered with a warm greeting. After a brief conversation, he ended the call with a grin, turning to Zeke with excitement sparkling in his eyes.

"Guess what, Zeke? The company just approved my proposal for a new sales initiative in Davao! They want me to lead the project," Marvin announced, unable to contain his excitement.

Zeke's eyes widened in excitement, mirroring Marvin's enthusiasm. "That's incredible news, Marv! Congratulations!" he exclaimed, clapping him on the back in congratulatory gesture. "I knew you had it in you. You're going to do amazing things with this opportunity."

Marvin's smile widened at Zeke's words of encouragement, feeling a surge of confidence wash over him. "Thanks, Zeke. I couldn't have done it without your support," he said gratefully, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.

Their conversation shifted to Zeke's own achievements, as he shared updates on the progress of his students and the satisfaction he felt in seeing them succeed. Marvin listened intently, his admiration for his friend growing with each passing moment.

"You're truly making a difference, Zeke. Your passion for teaching shines through in everything you do," Marvin remarked, his tone sincere.

Zeke smiled modestly, feeling a swell of pride at Marvin's words. "Thanks, Marvin. It means a lot coming from you," he replied, his voice tinged with gratitude.

As they finished their coffee and prepared to part ways, Marvin and Zeke shared a moment of reflection, marveling at how far they had come since their days as fresh-faced graduates. Though their paths may have diverged, their friendship remained steadfast, a constant source of strength and support in their journey through life.

As they bid each other farewell, Marvin and Zeke knew that no matter where their careers or adventures took them, they would always have each other's backs. And with that comforting thought in mind, they set off to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead, ready to face them head-on, together.