Love Across Time

Chapter 8

***March 2020

Five years passed, and Marvin devoted himself wholeheartedly to being the best father he could be to Ethan. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that had marked the beginning of their journey together, Marvin found solace and purpose in the boundless love he shared with his son.

With each passing day, Marvin marveled at Ethan's growth and development, his heart swelling with pride at the little milestones they celebrated together. From first steps to first words, Marvin cherished every moment he spent with Ethan, grateful for the chance to be a part of his son's life.

Unbeknownst to Marvin, Precilla had moved on with her life as well, finding love and companionship in the arms of another. Though their paths no longer intersected, Precilla remained committed to co-parenting Ethan with Marvin, their shared love for their son transcending the complexities of their past relationship.

Meanwhile, Zeke had embarked on his own journey of self-discovery and growth, finding solace in his work and the support of friends and loved ones. Though the scars of the past still lingered, Zeke had learned to forgive, finding peace in the knowledge that love had the power to heal even the deepest wounds.

As the vibrant energy of Araw ng Dabaw filled the streets once again, Zeke found himself swept up in the festivities, his heart brimming with nostalgia and anticipation. It had been five long years since he had last set foot in Davao during the annual celebration, and the memories of happier times flooded back with each step he took.

Lost in his thoughts, Zeke hardly noticed the familiar figure that approached him until they were nearly face to face. His heart skipped a beat as he looked up to see Marvin standing before him, a mixture of surprise and apprehension written across his face.

"Marvin?" Zeke breathed, hardly daring to believe his eyes.

Marvin's expression mirrored Zeke's own as he took in the sight of the man he had never been able to forget. "Zeke," he replied, his voice tinged with a mixture of relief and uncertainty.

For a moment, they stood frozen in time, the weight of their shared history hanging heavy in the air between them. And then, as if drawn together by an invisible force, they closed the distance between them, their arms wrapping around each other in a long-awaited embrace.

As the festive atmosphere of Araw ng Dabaw enveloped them, Zeke and Marvin found themselves caught up in a whirlwind of emotions. It was as if the years of separation had melted away, leaving only the unbreakable bond that had always connected them.

As they walked through the bustling streets together, Zeke and Marvin caught up on the events of the past five years, sharing stories of triumphs and challenges, laughter and tears. With each passing moment, their connection grew stronger, reaffirming the deep love and affection they had always held for one another.

As they reached a quiet corner of the plaza, Zeke found himself unable to hold back the words that had been burning in his heart since the moment he had laid eyes on Marvin again.

They found a quiet bench to sit on amidst the bustling celebration, Zeke and Marvin settled in, eager to catch up on the events of the past five years.

"So, Marvin, what have you been up to all this time?" Zeke asked, his curiosity piqued.

Marvin smiled warmly, grateful for the opportunity to share his journey with Zeke. "Well, after everything that happened, I focused on being the best father I could be to Ethan," he began, his eyes lighting up with pride. "It hasn't always been easy, but seeing him grow and thrive has been the greatest joy of my life."

Zeke listened intently, his heart swelling with admiration for the man sitting beside him. "That's incredible, Marvin. I'm so proud of you," he said sincerely.

As Marvin finished recounting his experiences as a father, Zeke took a deep breath, ready to share his own story. "And what about you, Zeke? What have you been doing all this time?" Marvin asked, his eyes full of curiosity.

Zeke's expression softened as he thought back on the past five years. "Well, after everything that happened between us, I threw myself into my work," he admitted, his voice tinged with regret. "But I also took some time to focus on myself, to figure out who I am and what I want out of life."

Marvin nodded understandingly, a sense of empathy shining in his eyes. "I'm glad to hear that, Zeke. You deserve to find happiness and fulfillment," he said sincerely.

As their conversation flowed, Zeke couldn't shake the nagging curiosity about Precilla and how she fit into Marvin's life now.

"Marvin, I hope you don't mind me asking, but what about Precilla?" Zeke ventured cautiously, his brow furrowing with concern.

Marvin's expression shifted slightly, a flicker of sadness passing over his features before he composed himself. "Precilla... she's moved on, found happiness with someone else," he explained, his voice tinged with resignation. "We've managed to co-parent Ethan amicably, but our paths haven't crossed much otherwise."

Zeke nodded, his heart heavy with understanding. "I see," he murmured softly, a pang of sympathy tugging at his heartstrings. "It must have been difficult for both of you."

Marvin offered a small smile, appreciating Zeke's empathy. "It had its challenges, but Ethan has always been our priority," he affirmed, his gaze softening with affection as he thought of his son.

As the night progressed and the conversation between Zeke and Marvin deepened, Zeke couldn't shake off the feeling of unresolved curiosity about Precilla. He felt a tug of concern for Marvin's well-being and wanted to ensure that there were no lingering feelings or unresolved issues between them.

"Marvin, I appreciate your honesty about Precilla," Zeke began, choosing his words carefully. "But are you sure you're okay with how things are between you two? I can imagine it must be complicated, especially with Ethan in the picture."

Marvin paused, his gaze thoughtful as he considered Zeke's question. "Honestly, Zeke, it hasn't been easy," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "But we've both moved on, found our own paths in life. Our focus now is on co-parenting Ethan and ensuring he has a happy and stable upbringing."

Zeke nodded, understanding the gravity of Marvin's words. "I'm glad to hear that you've both found some semblance of peace," he said sincerely, reaching out to place a reassuring hand on Marvin's shoulder. "And I'm here for you, Marvin, no matter what."

A sense of warmth and gratitude washed over Marvin as he met Zeke's gaze, a silent acknowledgment passing between them. In that moment, Zeke's unwavering support reminded Marvin of the strength of their bond and the depth of their connection.

"Zeke, I never stopped loving you," Marvin confessed, his voice filled with raw emotion. "Even during the darkest moments, you were always in my thoughts."

Zeke's eyes softened as he reached out to take Marvin's hand in his own. "Marvin, I feel the same way," he admitted, his voice trembling with sincerity. "You've always been the one I've longed for, the one who fills my heart with warmth and joy."