He Loves Me... She Loves Me Not

Chapter Six

Scott and I sat by the beach as the sun dipped below the horizon, still engaged in a heartfelt conversation. I found myself considering the possibility of giving our short-lived romance another chance. Still, lingering doubts gnawed at my mind, questioning the potential outcome of rekindling this whirlwind relationship.

On certain occasions, I thought whether the stars would align and provide the signs I needed, to confidently explore the prospect of reviving what was once a fleeting connection between us. With Roy's wedding fast approaching, the preparations at home consumed everyone's time and energy. Amidst the flurry of activity, I realized that while Scott and I were still in the Philippines, this could be the perfect opportunity to introduce him to various local attractions, from serene beaches to iconic landmarks, and even the infamous 'Manila traffic'.

During our travels to different provinces, I marveled at Scott's restraint in delving into sensitive topics that should have remained unspoken. His tact and consideration left me pleasantly surprised, prompting me to think about if there was more depth to him than I had previously assumed.

As we journeyed on, we encountered various people who knew him, who couldn't resist asking for some pictures with him, while some others seemed to be more interested in flirting and engaging in playful banter. It was no surprise that when we finally arrived back at our hotel as we finished off our adventures in Baguio, he appeared visibly weary.

"Wow, you really attract a lot of attention wherever we go," I remarked as we entered the hotel lobby.

"Yeah, it's part of the territory, I guess, as for you too," Scott replied with a tired smile. "But man, all that attention can be exhausting."

"It's like being a magnet for all sorts of attention, huh?" I teased, trying to lift his spirits.

"Tell me about it," Scott sighed. "I appreciate the fans and all, but sometimes I wish I could just blend in and not be noticed for a day."

"Yeah, it can be tough," I sympathized. "But you handled it like a pro out there. Now it's time to kick back and relax."

Scott let out a grateful chuckle as we made our way to our rooms.

Before we decided to leave Baguio city, we found ourselves at a posh restaurant, a place Scott had insisted on treating me to. As we dined, our attention wandered to a group at the neighboring table who seemed to recognize Scott. "I think those people over there know you. They're probably just too shy to ask for a photo. Why don't you go say hi?" I suggested.

Scott shook his head. "Not this time. We've been to five beautiful places here in the Philippines, but we haven't had a chance to unwind, just the two of us. I think this one's for us. Besides, this is my treat, and I owe you for all the treats you've given me."

I smiled. "That's your call. But I do appreciate the gesture. You really haven't changed. Once again, you've gone above and beyond."

Scott leaned in with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "Well, when it's you I'm with, I tend to go all out. Because you're special to me."

"Scott," I interjected, a hint of warning in my tone.

"Yeah, I know," he conceded. "We've talked about this. Sorry if I can't control myself."

As we continued our meal, I couldn't help but feel conflicted. Scott's charm still had the power to make my heart flutter, but I knew better than to let myself fall for his words all over again. The evening with him seemed to stretch out indefinitely, and it brought to mind those occasions when time seemed to fly by in a blur, leaving us wonderstruck and wondering where things went wrong.

Even before heading back to the hotel after that dinner, we decided to stroll along, savoring what might be our final moments together. Even in the chill of the night, I couldn't ignore the tension and unease in my companion. "Are you all right? Is something bothering you?" I asked, noticing the uneasiness in his eyes.

"Maybe it's just the cold. The chill here feels different, don't you think?" he sighed, his demeanor betraying the turmoil within him.

"Do you want to head back to the hotel now? Besides it's getting late, and we're leaving for the island early tomorrow," I suggested.

"Um, Danni, there's something I need to tell you," he hesitated.

"What is it?" I inquired.

"I don't think I can go back to the island. Something's come up back home," he stated, his eyes avoiding mine.

"Oh, you don't really have to come with me... You're just so irritating," I snapped, a mix of hurt and frustration seeping into my words.

I already understood the reason behind his revelation. My words had affected him, too. The weight of unspoken goodbyes lingered, and I couldn't shake off the feeling that this encounter would be etched in my memory as the final chapter in our shared story.

I rushed back to the hotel, feeling the weight of my actions heavy on my shoulders. It pained me to admit that I had done something I had sworn not to do again, but circumstances demanded it. The night air gripped me in its icy embrace, echoing the coldness I felt inside. As I reached the hotel and made my way to my room, a sharp knock on the door shattered the silence.

"Danni, I know you're in there. Open the door. Let's talk," he pleaded.

I stood behind the door, steeling myself against the vulnerability that awaited if I were to face him. His calls for me fell on deaf ears as I refused to succumb to the uncertainty that lay beyond the door. I let him knock until exhaustion pulled me into a restless slumber.