Where I Belong

Kabanata 13

Beach House

I was making my way downstairs carrying my suitcase when Aiden snatched it, making me jump a little in surprise.

I just let him carry it and followed him to the van we were going to use to get to their beach house.

After Aiden had put the suitcase in the truck, we got inside the van. All of them were already in there, so I had to sit beside Aiden, which I did not mind at all.

It's just that every time I'm near him, it feels weird, like I feel something but can't figure it out. But one thing is for sure: it's not intimidation like I felt a few months ago; it's something else.

I tried to shake off the strange feeling that seemed to linger whenever he was around. Sa kabila ng aking mga pagsisikap, hindi ko maiwasang magmasid sa kanya mula sa sulok ng aking mata, wondering what it was about him that made me feel this way.

I was back into the reality nang biglang magsalita siya.

"You should sleep, the ride will last for 3 hours," Aiden said.

"Hindi pa naman ako ina-antok, Maybe later," I answered.

Arriving at the beach house, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as I stepped out of the van. The breeze brushed against my skin.

The beach house itself was a sight to behold, nestled among the lush greenery with the sound of crashing waves in the distance. 

Once inside the beach house, I was greeted by the comforting scent of saltwater and sunshine. The interior was cozy yet spacious, with large windows that offered stunning views of the ocean beyond.

"Wow, this place is amazing," I exclaimed, unable to contain my awe.

Aiden smiled warmly at my reaction. "Gusto mo ba magpahinga muna o gusto mong maglakad-lakad sa tabing-dagat?" he offered, his voice gentle.

Napangiti ako sa kanyang tanong, natutuwa sa kanyang pag-aalok. "Siguro, maglalakad-lakad muna ako. Ang ganda kasi ng beach," sagot ko, puno ng excitement.

Nagpaalam muna kami kila Tita na maglalakad-lakad muna sa may beach bago lumabas sa kanilang beach house.

The rhythmic sound of the waves provided a soothing soundtrack as we walked along the shoreline, our footprints trailing behind us in the sand.

With each step, I felt a sense of freedom wash over me, the worries of everyday life melting away with the tide. Aiden walked beside me, his presence a comforting presence amidst the wideness of the ocean.

As we continued our stroll along the shoreline, I couldn't help but think of my memories with my father. I always loved the beach so does my father. 

I smiled as I remembered our beach outings, the joy and laughter we shared as we built sandcastles, chased seagulls, and collected seashells along the shoreline.

Bawat sandali ay nakaukit sa aking alaala, isang pinahahalagahang paalala ng aming samahan.

But amidst the fond recollections, there was also a pang of sadness, a longing for the presence of my father beside me.

I was lost in my thoughts when Aiden called me.

"Let's go, lunch is ready," 

"Sige" I answered smiling at him.

So we made our way back towards the beach house. 

Taking a seat at the table, I exchanged smiles with the Millers as we prepared to enjoy our meal together.

Despite the bittersweet memories that lingered in my mind, I found comfort in the company of the people around me.