Sincerely, Jayvee

05

“Jayvee, I have something to tell you.”

You held my hand as you pulled me outside the gym after the graduation ceremony was done, and the crowd was still buzzing with excitement and celebration.

My heart raced, anticipation building with every step we took away from the noise. I wanted to stop you, to reach into my pocket and give you the small, wrapped gift I had carefully chosen, and to finally confess myself.

But before I could say anything, you slipped your hand out of mine and took Allen’s instead.

The moment you raised your intertwined hands, I felt the hard slap of realization—I had missed my chance.

Desperately trying to keep my composure, I feigned confusion and raised an eyebrow, as if I didn’t understand what was happening.

Stupid me. It was too obvious, Jayvee.

“Kami na!” you announced happily, and all I could do was force a smile and congratulate both of you.

But what if I had held your hand a little longer?