Lost and Found • mikhaiah au

17. Brewing Feelings and Schemes

Agnes woke up to the soft sound of knocking on her condo door. Groggy but curious, she slipped out of bed, padded across the room, and opened the door.

There, on the floor in front of her, was a steaming cup of coffee and a small bouquet of flowers. Tucked between the petals was a note.

Smiling, Agnes picked up the bouquet and coffee, inhaling the sweet aroma of the flowers before reading the note.

Just a little something to brighten your morning :-) — Maiko H.

Feeling a warm flutter in her chest, Agnes grabbed her phone and quickly dialed Maiko's number. After a few rings, Maiko answered, "Morning, sleepyhead. Did you find my little surprise?"

Agnes chuckled, leaning against the doorframe. "Again? This is the third day in a row I've woken up to coffee and flowers on my doorstep. Ano bang meron ha?"

Maiko laughed softly. "No occasion, just a reminder that I'm here for you. And I happen to enjoy seeing you smile."

Agnes couldn't help but smile, her heart feeling a little lighter. "Ang papansin mo, Maiko Herrera! Crush mo ba ako?"

"Yes."

"Gago! Ang aga aga, Herrera ha! Baka di kita matansya!"

"Well then. Good morning, Agnes. I like you?"

"Ha?"

"Huh?"

"Hatdog!"

Agnes heard Maiko laughing softly in the background, which brought a small, relieved smile to her face.

She was grateful that Maiko couldn't see how flustered she was, her cheeks burning. Her palms were slick with sweat, a clear sign of how much Maiko's words had affected her.

Agnes tried to steady her breathing, realizing that despite the initial shock, the effect Maiko had on her was undeniable. The laugh was warm and comforting, somehow making her feel more at ease despite the racing thoughts and fluttering emotions.

Maiko's voice then came through the phone, gentle yet probing. "So, are you going today?"

Agnes sighed deeply, the weight of the past few days settling heavily on her shoulders through the question. The incident at Colleen's home, the revelations, and the emotional fallout had been overwhelming.

For three days now, Agnes had skipped practices, avoiding her coach.

Maiko's tone softened as she continued, sensing Agnes' hesitation. "Hey, it's okay if you're not ready yet. Take your time."

Agnes felt a pang of gratitude for Maiko's understanding. She hadn't realized just how much she needed this support until now.

Maiko still noticing Agnes' silence, added gently, "I'll come by this evening after my practice. How about we watch movies or have dinner? It might be nice to take your mind off things."

Agnes smiled at the thought, her heart warming at the idea of spending time with Maiko. "Who knew Maiko Herrera was this thoughtful?"

Maiko chuckled. "Maybe I just wanted an excuse to see you."

Agnes grinned, playfully teasing, "So you're saying this is just to see me?"

Maiko laughed. "Maybe."

As they chatted, Agnes heard Maiko's coach calling her in the background. "Looks like I've got to run na. I'll see you later. Don't miss me too much, sayo ako uuwi tonight."