Chapter 6: After Storm

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"Shhhhh, Just rest"

In a softly lit bedroom, the gentle hum of a bedside lamp casts a warm glow over the two lying entwined under a cozy quilt. Michelle was, pale and visibly fatigued, rests her head on Antonnia's chest, seeking comfort in the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. Antonnia, filled with concern and tenderness, wraps her arms protectively around the ailing one, fingers softly tracing soothing patterns on her back. Michelle, despite her weakness, finds solace and strength in the other's embrace, her pain momentarily eased by the warmth and security of Antonnia's presence.

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Anna and Annchilee accompany Nalin to the hospital, it turns out that she was fine and nothing to worry about. Because it was late at midnight they decided to stay in hospital room.

"Hey, did you notice how Antonnia reacted that time? Something is off about her." Annchilee said.

"What do you mean? Anna asked, putting down her phone in her lap- curiosity eating her.

"I don't know if it just seems overacting or overprotective to Michelle when even if Nalin was in danger in the first place" she explained. "It's just that I feel something between them"

" You just imagined it." Anna shrugged the idea.

Or maybe because Michelle is our visitor, she is a tourist here in Thailand and a big celebrity in her country. What will they say if we didn't take care of her?" Seconded the motion, Nalin feigns ignorance on it

Annchilee was not that close to them. Actually, originally she was not included in this vacation, but Antonnia accidentally slipped it to her and was too shy to not invite her.

Irfan and Annchilee's boyfriend was a football teammate. That explains why Irfan and she become close friends. She was vocal in supporting the relationship of the two.

" I don't know when we were in the VIP lounge, I noticed Antonnia stealing glances at her, there was something in her eyes about how she looked at her. She was out of self lately."

"By the way, Irfan called last night and he informed me that they will follow us probably tomorrow night after their game" she said

"What?!!" Nalin exclaimed

"Why? Is there any problem?"

"Nothing"  chuckled awkwardly "Antonnia will be happy" faking her smile.

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As the first light of dawn filters through the curtains, Antonnia wakes up to a serene, post-storm morning. The air is fresh and crisp, carrying the faint scent of rain and earth. She blinks her eyes open, taking in the tranquil scene outside, where raindrops still cling to the leaves, sparkling in the early sunlight.

Turning her gaze, she sees Michelle still asleep beside her, peacefully nestled among the tousled sheets. Her chest rises and falls in a steady rhythm, her face relaxed and serene. She smiles softly, feeling a rush of affection and gratitude for the quiet moment. Gently, she brushes a strand of hair from her forehead, careful not to disturb her slumber.

She stood up, smacked her forehead because she lost in her thoughts about Nalin,worried about her friend who had been hospitalized. She grabbed her phone to message her when she heard a soft footsteps, Nalin stands before her, a bit pale and weary, but very much alive and smiling softly. Antonnia's eyes widen, and she feels a rush of emotions-relief, joy, and a hint of disbelief. She steps forward, her voice catching in her throat.

"You're back," she whispers

Her friend nods, a tired but happy smile playing on her lips. "I'm okay," she reassures.

Tears well up in her eyes as she crosses the room in a few quick strides, enveloping her friend in a tight, grateful embrace.

When they settled their emotions, Nalin informed her about Irfan arrival.

Antonnia nodded her head "I know he messaged me. I'm sorry I know I promised that this will be only for girls get away but I dont know why he wants to go here"

"Its okay" she grab her hand and glance Michelle still sleeping on her bed

"Did he know that Michelle was here?"

"Maybe Annchilee told her" shrugging her shoulders.

"You can stay here. I will be in your room for the meantime" Nalin offers. She mention to her that Michelle was been sick last night. "I know that she prefers your face than me when she wakes up" she jokes.

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Waking up late, feeling the remnants of sickness weighing heavily on her, Michelle slowly opens her eyes to the soft light filtering through the curtains. Pushing herself up, she notices the tray beside her bed, laden with a warm bowl of soup .Her heart swells with gratitude as she realizes who must have prepared this thoughtful spread.

Antonnia appears in the doorway, smiling tenderly. "Good morning, sleepyhead," she says softly, her eyes full of concern "I made you some soup. How are you feeling?"

She smiles weakly, touched by her care. "A little better, I think. This looks amazing. Thank you so much."

She walks over, sitting on the edge of the bed, and gently tucks a strand of hair behind her ear. "I know you need your rest, but you also need to eat something"

She sits up in bed, feeling a bit stronger after the night's rest, and gazes at Antonnia who is tidying up the room with meticulous care.

"Hey," she calls softly, drawing her friend's attention. "Why did you stay and take care of me last night and today?"

Antonnia pauses, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks, and turns to face her. "Well, you were really sick, and I couldn't just leave you alone. Someone had to make sure you were okay."

She tilts her head slightly, studying her friend's expression. "It just seems like more than that"

So, do you have feelings for me?

Michelle wants to ask but she cant find the courage to ask it

Antonnia fidgets, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, clearly searching for the right words. "I... I care about you".

A lot. More than just a friend, actually. Yes, I do. I've had feelings for you for a while now. Last night, I couldn't bear the thought of you being alone and in pain. I had to be here with you.

Her mind is shouting but she can't say it.

Antonnia takes a deep breath and steps closer, sitting on the edge of the bed.

Reaching out, Michelle takes Antonnia's hand, squeezing it gently. "Thank you. That means a lot to me"

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A/N: Tagu taguan, Maliwanag ang buwan.
Unang aamin, sya ang taya

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