The Golden Ruins (High School Series #2)

Chapter 29

"Ang corny ng idea mo, Eli," Cal muttered, eyeing the picnic blanket and basket. "Seryoso ka ba? Picnic? Para san 'to?"

I could barely contain my excitement as I walked through the park, basket in hand. The sun beamed down brightly, and the sky was a flawless blue. A gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers, making the day feel perfect.

Today was my idea—to spend some time together in the park and hit the reset button after everything we've been through. It was our chance to reconnect, to put aside the past, and simply enjoy each other's company.

I even dressed up for the occasion in a cute, summery outfit: a light, airy dress with a floral print that flowed around my knees and a matching bow. I wanted everything to be just right for this fresh start.

Cal was a little ways behind me, trudging along with a look of vague disinterest on his face. I knew he wasn't thrilled about this idea, but I was determined to make it work.

"Well, if you actually gave it a chance instead of complaining, you might find it more enjoyable," I teased, a playful smile dancing on my lips. "And besides, weren't you the one who wanted me to stay with you?"

I could see the hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, despite his attempts to maintain a nonchalant demeanor.

"Manahimik ka na."

I was only teasing him, but the memory of how he held me close made my cheeks flush a deep red. The warmth of his embrace lingered in my thoughts, sending shivers down my spine.

We began laying out the assortment of pastries—croissants, muffins, and a few sweet rolls—along with a thermos of iced tea.

"Kain!" I urged him, my voice bubbling with excitement.

Unable to wait any longer, I grabbed a piece of chocolate bread and took a hearty bite, savoring the rich, velvety sweetness. I pointed at the ducks gliding serenely across the lake in front of us, my words a bit garbled by the mouthful of pastry.

He watched me with a bemused expression, shaking his head slightly. "Matamis talaga agad 'yong inuna mo, ano?"

I reached for another piece of chocolate bread, breaking it in half. I offered him the larger portion with a grin. "Taste it before you decide you don't like it!"

He grimaced, clearly not a fan of sweets. "Ayoko."

I rolled my eyes playfully and pushed the bread towards his mouth. He was momentarily startled but took a bite, his eyes widening in surprise. The corners of his mouth twitched upward as he chewed. He might not admit it, but I knew he enjoyed it—after all, this chocolate bread was made by one of the finest bakers around.

We spent the rest of the day exchanging playful banter, but it felt different this time. The usual edge in his tone was gone, replaced by a light-heartedness that made our conversation flow easily. Every so often, he would burst into laughter, and I couldn't help but smile at how relaxed he seemed.

"Hey, look at that one!" I said, pointing at a particularly fluffy cloud. "It looks like a dragon!"

I nudged Cal, who was sitting cross-legged beside me, absorbed in his own thoughts.

He hesitated, glancing at the cloud with a skeptical expression. He shifted on the blanket, finally lying down beside me. He adjusted his position, trying to find a comfortable spot.

Our heads were close together now, our shoulders brushing as we lay side by side.

"Anong dragon?" he asked, sounding confused. "Ulap lang 'yan, e."