Lilies and Lullabies

VIII. Plot twist

I never wanted to be found, I just wanna be seen. When I'm hiding, I never dreamed of having someone to find me because I knew to myself that I want to be alone. I just wanted to be seen— the efforts, the pain, every sacrifice I made. 

But with him, I know even if I hide in the corner of the world, he'll find me. And I was right.

“Found you…” a familiar melody welcomed my ear after I removed my earphones.

I faced him, plastering my genuine smile.

“Congrats.” I said, giving the gift I prepared. 

He didn't open it immediately because he was too busy to stare at me as if I'm a kind of magic that'll disappear any minute. 

“Why didn't you come?” he asked me, tunog nagtatampo.

“Because I know you'll come.” I answered but he just rolled his eyes. Siya na si sungit ngayon, hindi na ako.

“I was looking for you. Even Mira doesn't know where you are! Even Mirae and Tita.” he hissed, he looked cute while he's sulking. Can I make him my keychain instead?

He glared at me when he noticed the grin on my face. I just can't take his sulking seriously, he's like a 4-year old boy throwing tantrums because his mom didn't pay attention when he was showing his drawing. 

“They don't know, but you still found me. Stop sulking, Kulit.” I chuckled. 

He closed the distance between us and hugged me, he buried his face on my neck. 

“I thought you'd leave… you didn't text me after I sang last night…” his voice is trembling.

I caressed his back, “Tell me about your song last night.” 

“Damn, you really know how to make my heart go crazy.” he whispered as he tightened his hug.

It was tight… but comfy. 

“I made that for you… I won't sugarcoat it anymore, I like you… a lot.” he mumbled, it was clear and serene. 

My lips automatically formed a smile, “Hmm?”

“It's true… those nights we chose to run and stay here, the waves calmed me…” he inhaled, “but knowing I have you in those times, I found myself smiling and enjoying the night.” 

He let me go, “Miko, you became the muse of my music. The one where I can find my melodies.” 

I didn't answer, mas kinabahan ang ekspresyon ng mukha niya lalo pa't seryoso ang mukha ko.

“Do you want my answer?” I asked.

He slowly nodded. The glimpse of hope, fear, and nervousness reflected in his eyes. Ang dali basahin ng mga mata niya, isa sa mga bagay na gusto ko sa kanya.

“Then open that.” I pointed to the gift in his hand, “Comprehend my gift and meet me tomorrow where we had our first encounter.”

He grunted, “Sometimes I hate your writer self who's always trying to give me plot twists.”

I raised my brow, “Too late to say that, you said you like me.” I tease.

“Erase that thing, change that with I love you.” he said, I acted like a strong girl who can't feel any butterflies in her stomach but deep inside, my heart's beating like crazy. 

“Tomorrow.” I reminded him as I took my step away from him. I signed at 5 pm using my hand. 

“Your plot twist is killing me,” he massage the bridge of his nose.