Ruled by Heart's Law

(3) "Songs of the Heart"

💙 Sunday morning arrived, and as always, Thiha went for his morning run through the streets of his condo complex. By 5 am, many residents were already jogging. As he ran, the scent of lavender invigorated his senses. A sweet and soft voice called out amidst the fresh scent of peppermint, "Good morning, Thiha." He turned and smiled, greeting Maria, the source of the lavender fragrance. "Good morning, Maria."

Maria said, "I was fine when you went back last night. I've been afraid of thunder ever since I was a child. The rainy season always brings me bad luck, and I still feel its consequences. I have to accept this fear because it's my fate. But as a thank you for helping me last night, I want to treat you to breakfast at the neighborhood restaurant. Would you like to join me?"

Thiha replied, "I'd love to. I have the whole day free. Since you're treating me to breakfast, how about I treat you to dinner tonight? Would you have dinner with me, Maria?"

Maria smiled and said, "I'd be happy to."

"Thank you for accepting my invitation," Thiha said. They continued jogging together, enjoying each other's company.

Later, when it was time for breakfast, Thiha knocked on Maria's door. When she came out, he looked at her for a long moment. Maria asked, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

Thiha replied, "You always look beautiful. Your beauty is perfect."

"Thank you," Maria said with a smile. "I know I'm beautiful."

As they left the elevator, Thiha's phone rang. The ringtone played:

"In my life
Why do I give valuable time
To people who don't care if I live or die?
Two lovers entwined pass me by
And heaven knows I'm miserable now
I was looking for a job, and then I found a job
And heaven knows I'm miserable now."

Thiha glanced at the phone but didn't pick up.

As they drove along, Maria turned to Thiha and asked, "Hey, if you don't mind, could I ask you something?"

Thiha replied, "Sure, go ahead. What's on your mind?"

Maria continued, "How long have you had that song as your ringtone? And do you really like it?"

Thiha thought for a moment before responding, "I've had this song as my ringtone since I left my parents' house 15 years ago. It's been that long since I've seen them. This song just really resonates with me, you know?"

Maria said, "You know, both my father and mother love that rock band. I was curious why they liked it so much, so I decided to listen to The Smiths myself. Ever since, I've really enjoyed their songs. I find listening to music especially enjoyable when I'm sipping some wine. Do you like listening to music too?"

Thiha said, "I love everything about music. I also enjoy spending my free time listening to music and drinking wine. For me, music and wine are essential medicine. What's your favorite song by The Smiths? Tell me if you're comfortable sharing."

Maria said, "There are many songs I like, but this one is my favorite. Let's say the name of our favorite song by The Smiths at the same time; I'm curious to see if they're the same or different."

Thiha said, "Okay, I agree. After 1,

2, 3, let's say it at the same time." They counted down together, "1, 2, 3," and then said, "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out."

They looked at each other and laughed.

Thiha said, "We really have similar tastes! I never thought your favorite song would be the same as mine. I love singing along to it."

Maria said, "Can you believe it? I love that song so much." 💙

✨"Grateful
      for your time spent
                 on my story."✨