Chapter 29

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Classes have officially started. I'm back to reality. The fact that we're already in our fourth year made me realize I've gone so far now. I know, there's a storm waiting for us ahead, but this time, I think I could still get through just like I did for the past three years.

But, it feels strange now that Greg shifted to a program. I only got the news from our friends. He didn't tell me about his sudden change of mind, although we haven't had a talk since the concert. They also noticed his cold treatment towards me, but I acted just fine with it. I know how he felt. I've gone through it when I had feelings for Raiver back then. I wanted to approach him, but he doesn't want me to.

On the other hand, Raiver and I kept in touch ever since. He's doing great. He shared that he'll be co-leading another community project. That means, he's going to be really busy for the next few weeks, but he promised to try his best finding time for us to talk. I insisted that he should only call me when he's vacant. Else, I'll ignore him for the rest of the year.

Three months went by, Raiver's birthday was fast approaching. I told him I'll be going home to attend his birthday, but he insisted he already had plans. He showed me his flight schedule, and he confirmed he'll be going here instead. I had no choice, but to clean up my room before he would arrive. It may be a good thing after all, after realizing I haven't done any serious cleaning in my apartment.

A day before his birthday, he threw a party with his family and friends at his home. And, to my surprise, he even invited my family. So, his family and mine already met each other, without me. Here in my bed, I instantly got nervous upon seeing them together. And, the whole time, I was just watching everyone on the call, interacting and hearing my name being mentioned out of nowhere.

The next day, a series of knocks on the door startled me awake. When I figured out it was already half past nine, I jolted out of the bed and rushed to the door. I was supposed to leave by seven—

When I swung the door open, his figure flashed right before my eyes. "Raiver?"

Before I could even continue, he pulled me in and reached for my lips. I pulled myself away, puzzled upon seeing him. "Happy birthday—Wait, how did you find my place? Anong oras ka dumating? May kasama ka?"

"Shh, I'm here. Tsaka, hindi pa naman ako nakapagbreakfast. Baka ikaw pa ang kainin ko," he grinned, before lifting me back to my bedroom.

"Baliw!"

The whole morning, he stayed at my apartment. He took a rest for a while—might've been tired after entertaining all the guests at his party last night. For sure, he only had a couple of hours of sleep.

Afternoon came. To my surprise, he revealed that he booked a hotel for us and he's taking me there now. I was flustered. All I knew was he'd stay at my apartment. That's what we have agreed beforehand. Now, it's clear that I really had no idea of his plans today. "Trust me. It'll be worth it. And, fun."

And fun it was. The taxi pulled up to a gleaming glass and chrome building that seemed to pierce the sky. The hotel entrance greeted me with polished marble and cascading floral arrangements. As we stepped inside, a wave of cool air, scented with a subtle blend of luxury and exotic flowers, washed over me.

I was even hesitant to step in. "Raiver, how come you managed to book a room here? Entrance pa lang, napaka-engrande na. Baka maling hotel tayo ha," I asked, as I darted my sight to every corner of the place.

"Don't worry. My birthday, my treat. Besides, andito lang tayo para mag-dinner," he said, as he led us to the counter.

After we were given the keycard, we made our way to the fifth floor. Stepping out into the hallway from the elevator ride, I was greeted by a muted elegance – plush carpets in a rich, neutral tone, and soft lighting that cast a warm glow. Raiver unlocked the door to our room. I walked in and lit up the place, still in disbelief.

T.S. STORIES #4: Say Don't Go (Completed)Tahanan ng mga kuwento. Tumuklas ngayon