The Light Between Us

Where It Begun

In the bustling city of Makati, where the lines between urban vibrancy and quiet rural life blur, Freen navigates her third year of college with calm confidence. A talented and multifaceted young woman, Freen has always taken life one day at a time. Her middle-class upbringing has taught her the value of simplicity and hard work. She dreams of a comfortable life, and while she isn't one to chase grand ambitions, she finds joy in the present-directing plays, writing scripts, and creating art that speaks to the heart.

Everything changes when Freen meets Becky, a first-year college student. Becky comes from a well-off family, and her life has been one of constant movement and change, making her both thoughtful and somewhat detached. Yet, there's a lightness to Becky-a brightness that captivates Freen from the moment they meet during auditions for the college theater club. Freen, already an established member of the club, watches as Becky confidently takes the stage, her eyes filled with curiosity and excitement.

From the outset, there's something about Becky that draws Freen in. Whether it's the way she carries herself or the way she speaks with a mix of confidence and innocence, Freen finds herself intrigued. Becky auditions with a monologue that, though simple, is delivered with such sincerity that it leaves an impression on everyone, especially Freen.

After the audition, Freen, along with her close friend Narie, approaches Becky. Narie, like Freen, is in her third year, and the two have always been close, sharing a love for theater and a sense of humor that keeps them laughing through the ups and downs of college life.

"You did great up there," Freen says, offering Becky a warm smile.

"Thanks," Becky replies, her eyes lighting up. "I was really nervous, though."

"You didn't show it," Narie adds with a grin. "You've got the kind of presence that makes people want to watch you."

Becky blushes slightly, looking down at her shoes. "I'm just glad I didn't mess up."

From that moment on, the three become inseparable in the theater club. Freen and Narie take Becky under their wing, guiding her through the complexities of stagecraft, acting, and the intricacies of college life. While Narie is protective and caring, Freen's bond with Becky grows deeper and more complex.

The Growing Bond

Their connection deepens during late-night rehearsals when the theater is quiet, and it's just the two of them working on scenes. Becky's enthusiasm is infectious, and Freen finds herself drawn to Becky's energy and curiosity.

One night, after a particularly intense rehearsal, they sit on the edge of the stage, their legs dangling over the side. The theater is dimly lit, and the only sound is the faint hum of the city outside.

"Do you ever think about what comes next?" Becky asks, her voice soft, as if she's afraid to disturb the quiet.

Freen glances at her, surprised by the question. "What do you mean?"

"Like, after college... what do you want to do?"

Freen shrugs, looking out at the empty seats. "I'm not sure. I guess I just take things one day at a time."

Becky nods, her eyes distant. "I envy that. I feel like I'm always thinking ahead, always worried about what's next."

Freen smiles, trying to lighten the mood. "Maybe that's why we work well together. You keep me grounded, and I keep you from overthinking."

Becky laughs, the sound light and musical. "Yeah, maybe."

The conversation lingers in Freen's mind long after they part ways that night. There's something about Becky's vulnerability that makes Freen want to protect her, to be there for her in ways she hasn't fully understood yet.