Hook: The Novel (English)

Chapter 13: Falling Inlove Alone

Ford's P.O.V.

The gentle breeze weaving through the air as the sun cast its soft rays upon my face, enveloping me in a sense of peace. Seated comfortably beneath the shade of a sprawling tree, I found solace in my sketch pad, the tip of my pencil dancing across the surface as I brought my imagination to life on the paper.

A melodic tune streamed through my earpods, enhancing the serene ambiance that surrounded me. Each note seemed to harmonize with the rustle of leaves overhead and the distant chirping of birds, creating a symphony of sounds that whispered of nature's beauty.

In this moment, everything felt aligned, as if the universe itself had orchestrated this perfect harmony of sights and sounds just for me.

"What are you doing?" a voice suddenly spoke from behind me, causing me to startle. I quickly hid what I was holding behind my back as Gadiel appeared, squatting beside me, trying to peek at my sketch pad.

"W-what are you doing here?" I stammered, caught off guard by his unexpected presence.

He simply shrugged in response and settled himself beside me. "How did you find out I'm here?" I asked him, curiosity piqued.

"I woke up and couldn't find a trace of you anywhere in your house," he explained casually.

Ah, that's right. I had woken up earlier than him and decided to make the most of my remaining time here in our province before we headed back home later since tomorrow was already Monday. I had initially planned to bring Gadiel along to this spot, where I often came to find solitude, but seeing him sleeping so peacefully, I decided not to wake him up.

"I asked Tonton where his kuya Potpot was," Gadiel added, and my eyes widened at the mention of my childhood nickname. I lightly tapped his arm. "Not that name, please!" I protested, but he only laughed in response.

"Why?" he questioned innocently.

"I find it cute," he admitted with a grin.

"And it suits you more," he added, causing my brows to furrow in confusion.

"That sounds a bit... offensive," I muttered.

He chuckled. "I meant it in a good way."

"I don't think so." He lay on the grass with his arms behind his head as a pillow, then closed his eyes, as if he were embracing the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

"How so?"

"Potpot sounds naughty, silly, and like a little troublemaker."

"You jerk—"

"And at the same time, it's cute...and you're adorable, so don't get confused if from now on I'm calling you potpot because I like it."

I felt my face flush at his words and I was grateful that his eyes were closed so he wouldn't see me. I know I should feel annoyed because I don't really like being called potpot. But giving him an exemption won't hurt.

"Do you want to listen to some music?" I offered to divert the conversation. He nodded in response, so I placed one of my earpods in his ear. He closed his eyes again and immersed himself in the song while resting.

Fall In Love Alone.

From the very first line of the song, I felt the urge to switch it right away.

"I'm familiar with unrequited I know you got a heart that's undecided~"

Damn it, I'm familiar with unrequited love.

It feels like it's mocking me.

"Just like mine, it takes its sweet time I've been shy to dive into the deep end~"