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Chapter 29

warning: mention of death, and suic-de.

Chapter 29

Vermont Mabry Z. Villavicencio

The thing I'm most looking forward to is holding our baby, Khione. I'm excited to see both of you. Ever since you came into my life, I've dreamed of having a happy family, full of love and care.

"Say hi to our visitor, anak," a woman said while holding her daughter in her arms.

"Hi." The little girl hid behind her mother's clothes.

"What's her name?" I asked.

"Quennie Nymeria Khione San Jose. But we call her Khione," the woman replied.

Little did I know that this adorable child would be my future. Watching her play every day created cherished memories for me. It was during those moments that I realized there was something special about her.

When we returned to the city, I really missed my playmate.

"Mommy, I miss someone," I told my mom.

She picked me up and kissed my cheeks. "Who is it? Your playmate in La Union?"

"Uhm, yes."

"We'll go back there someday. It might be a while, but don't forget her name."

All I could do was create memories without her. My teenage years were challenging. Many girls were interested in me, but I eventually realized they were only attracted to my looks.

"I have a gift for the three of you," my mom greeted us excitedly, holding up three necklaces. "Tadaa! These necklaces are special. You should give them only to the person you want to be with forever. It means they are your 'the one.'"

Mom was right. I returned to La Union in my second year of college to accompany my dad. I noticed a timid girl standing to the side.

"Sir, si Khione wala pong partner!" one of his students shouted. They were in senior high school.

My heart raced uncontrollably. This feeling was new to me. I made an effort to get to know her and confirm my suspicions.

"Khione..."

Her name remained vivid in my mind. All these years, she's been the only girl I've ever wanted. I wanted to dance with her so she would remember me until we met again. But I knew she was still in high school, a minor. Despite the two-year age gap, I didn't want to disrupt her life because of my feelings.

I decided to give her the necklace my mom had given me. I was certain that she was the one I wanted to spend my life with.

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3rd PERSON POV

Nang tumawag na ang ina ni Vermont sa kaniya at binalita na nanganak na ang kaniyang asawa ay dali-dali siyang umalis sa restaurant at bumiyahe patungong hospital.