I'm Living Today

3

"Cielo, sa'n dito mas maganda?" Maia asked, holding up two dresses.

"The one on the right," I said, pointing to the nude dress that perfectly complemented her skin tone. The other dress, a moss green color, wasn't quite as flattering.

"Sabi ko na eh! Thank you, pwede na kitang stylist," Maia joked, grinning as she held the dress against herself.

Our friends were scattered around the store, each engrossed in their own fashion quests. Anna and Lara, who were nearby, turned their attention to Maia’s choice. "That one is definitely the winner," Anna agreed, nodding approvingly. "It’s perfect for the party next weekend."

Maia beamed, pleased with the unanimous decision. "Okay, nude dress it is! Thanks, guys. I always second-guess myself, but you all make it so easy."

Josh, one of the guys in our group, chuckled, leaning on a clothing rack. " Tignan niyo yung isa ro'n." Talking about his boyfriend—Kiran.

Kiran, joined us with a pair of sneakers in hand. "Guys, ano bilhin ko rito?"

"Nasa right," Lara said, inspecting them. "Mas bagay sa'yo. "

Kiran grinned. "Oki, thanks."

Faith, another friend, walked over with a couple of tops draped over her arm. "Cielo, which one? Parehong maganda 'di ko alam ano kukunin ko."

"Depends on the vibe you're going for," I said, glancing at the options. "But the casual one suits you more, Faith."

Faith smiled. "Casual it is, then. Easy and comfortable."

After everyone made their final decisions and purchases, we decided to grab coffee at a nearby café. It was a cozy little place with a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after our shopping spree.

As we settled into a large corner booth, the conversation buzzed with excitement about the upcoming party. Anna and Lara were discussing decorations, while Maia and Kiran were debating music playlists. Josh leaned back, casually joining the conversation with his usual laid-back humor.

Faith, sitting next to me, noticed I had been quieter than usual. She gently nudged me. "Hey, Cielo, you've been a bit quiet. Everything okay?"

I gave her a small smile, trying to brush off her concern. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit tired, I guess."

Faith nodded, but her eyes were still filled with concern. "If you ever need to talk, I'm here, okay? We all are."

"Thanks," I said, appreciating her kindness but feeling a bit uncomfortable under the attention. I wasn't ready to share everything that had been on my mind, not even with my closest friends.

Josh, catching the tail end of our conversation, jumped in to lighten the mood. "Come on, guys, let's not get too serious. We're here to have fun! Who's ready to dominate at the karaoke machine next weekend?"

Kiran laughed, shaking her head. "Ayan na naman siya sa karaoke niya."

"Bakit ba? Sasama ka pa rin naman" Josh grinned.

We all laughed, and the conversation shifted to lighter topics. The café was filled with our laughter and banter, making me feel a bit more at ease. Even though I wasn't ready to open up completely, it was comforting to know my friends were there for me, ready to support me in whatever way I needed.

As we wrapped up our time together, Maia nudged me playfully. "Make up-an mo ako, Cielo huhuhu"

"Sure, I'd love to," I said, smiling.

Walking out of the café with my friends, I felt alive. Even amidst my struggles, moments like these reminded me that I wasn’t alone and that brighter days were possible.

As we left the café, the evening air was crisp, and the city lights were twinkling with a warm glow. Maia, Faith, Anna, and Lara chatted animatedly about the party plans, while Josh and Kiran walked beside me, engaging in light-hearted banter.

"Sama ka, teh?" Josh asked, glancing at me with a grin. "Dapat kasama ka ha! Duet tayo."

I chuckled softly, shaking my head. "I don’t think I’m ready for the spotlight yet. Maybe I’ll just cheer you guys on."

Kiran nudged me playfully. "Sama ka na, para naman 'tong sira."

I smiled at their enthusiasm but felt a pang of hesitation. Participating in something as public as karaoke felt daunting, but I didn't want to disappoint my friends. "I’ll think about it," I said.

As we approached the street where we would part ways, Faith fell into step beside me. She had been quiet for a moment, and I could sense she was still concerned.

"Hey, Cielo," Faith said softly, "I know you said you're fine, but if you ever need to talk, remember I’m here. Sometimes, just talking about things can make a difference, even if it's just to listen."

I looked at her, touched by her concern. "Thanks, Faith. I really appreciate it. It’s just...sometimes it’s hard to open up, you know?"

"I get it," Faith said, giving me a reassuring smile. "But you don’t have to go through anything alone. We’re all here for you, and we care about you."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and discomfort. "I know. It’s just a lot to handle right now."

"Take your time," Faith said gently. "And remember, no matter what, you have a whole group of friends who are here for you. We’re in this together."

As the group started to disperse, Maia gave me a quick hug. "I’m excited for the party. We’re going to have a blast!"

I hugged her back, feeling a bit more uplifted. "Me too. I’ll definitely be there."

Anna and Lara waved as they headed off, and Josh and Kiran followed shortly after, leaving Faith and me standing on the corner.

"Are you heading home now?" Faith asked.

"Yeah, I think so," I replied.

"Alright," Faith said. "Just remember, I’m a call away if you need anything."

"I will," I promised, smiling as we parted ways.

Walking home, I reflected on the evening. Even though I wasn’t ready to fully open up about my struggles, spending time with my friends had reminded me of the importance of their support. It was comforting to know they were there for me, no matter how much or how little I chose to share.

When I finally reached the house, I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm. Moments like these, filled with laughter and friendship, helped me keep moving forward, one day at a time.