Forgotten Heartstrings

Chapter 8

Haven isn't always a physical place. Sometimes, the deepest sense of security can bloom in the most unexpected moments, brought on by the sheltering presence of another.

It might be a stranger's hand reaching out to steady you on a slick sidewalk, a friend's fierce defense when you're feeling vulnerable, or a loved one's quiet support during a storm.

These unexpected instances of protection weave a kind of emotional haven, a feeling of safety that transcends location.

It reminds us that we're not alone, that there's a web of care woven around us, even in the most surprising places.

And, my haven for today happened to be Eris. I can feel him gripping not just my hands but my world while running.

Hinihingal ma'y nagawa ko paring lumingon kay Eris na ngayo'y seryoso ang mukha. Nang makarating kami sa paroroonan namin ay pina angkas niya ako sa kanyang motor at tuluyan na kaming umalis sa lugar na iyon.

Ender stopped chasing us as we had already driven away from him. Sa balikat ako ni Eris nakakapit habang nasa daan kami. And, instead of him, ako ang pinasuot niya ng kanyang helmet.

Napansin kong sakto na lang ang bilis ng takbo ng motor niya nang maramdaman niya ang higpit ng kapit ko sa balikat niya.

The fist bumps lately make sense now. Kaya pala akala ko makikipagsuntukan siya sa akin dahil doon rin pala talaga papunta, si Ender nga lang kasuntukan niya.

Hindi ko na alam kung saan ako dadalhin ni Eris, basta, ang alam ko ay ligtas na ako at magtitiwala na lang ako sa kanya. Hindi niya naman yata ako ipapahamak.

As Eris and I arrived at his house, a sense of relief washed over me, grateful for the safety of his home. Bumaba na ako at tinanggal ang helmet saka binigay kay Eris.

Sa bahay nila pala niya ako dinala. Hindi niya rin siguro alam ang address ko kaya dito niya ako diniretso.

Not bad at all. At least, alam ko na ang magiging future bahay ko rin. Joke lang.

Kapal lang ng mukha.

Eris's mom greeted us warmly, her smile radiant as she welcomed us inside.

"Welcome, boys! Come in, come in," she exclaimed, ushering us into the warmth of their living room.

Nagulat pa siya no'ng una pero pinapasok parin kami. Hindi naman halatang galing kami sa suntukan kasi wala kaming ni isang galos.

As we went inside, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of their home, the elegant furnishings and tasteful decor a stark contrast to the simplicity of my surroundings.

Mayaman talaga sila. Ang ganda ng bahay eh. Napaka minimalist ng vibe.

Eris's mom noticed my awe and Chuck chuckled softly, "Nothing much, dear. Just a humble house," she said modestly, though her eyes twinkled with pride.

A surge of shyness washed over me.

"Pero, natatandaan kita. Ikaw 'yung mabait na batang binigay sa akin ang upuan no'ng enrollment sa school, what's your name again?" dagdag pa ng mama ni Eris na ngayon ay nakangiti sa akin.

Nahihiya akong ngumisi. "Gab po, tita."

Wow, tita? Advance yan!?

Meanwhile, Eris's mom wondered as she looked at me, concern etched into her features. "Gab, what happened? Why are you home so late?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.