The evening was settling into a serene rhythm as the campus pavilion was bathed in warm, ambient lights. Students, who had been under immense academic pressure, were now enveloped in the festive atmosphere of the school's annual relaxation event. Sponsored by the top three influential families of UST—the Hongs, Chois, and Santiagos—the event was a chance for students to unwind and enjoy themselves.
Rhiannon, the formidable SSG President, found herself finally released from her relentless duties. Tonight, her family, known for their stringent control over the university, had granted her a rare reprieve. This was Rhiannon's first real chance to relax and enjoy the festivities without the constant pressure of leadership hovering over her.
As the music played softly in the background, Wayne and Maxwell were on the dance floor. The music had transitioned from upbeat tunes to more romantic, slower melodies, perfectly fitting the couple-like atmosphere. Wayne, his usual nonchalant demeanor replaced with a rare, soft smile, held Maxwell close as they swayed to the rhythm.
"Ang saya ng gabi, hindi ba?" Wayne remarked, his eyes glancing down at Maxwell.
"Oo, ang ganda ng mood. Salamat sa pagdala sa akin dito," Maxwell replied, resting his head gently on Wayne’s shoulder.
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Meanwhile, Sébastien, the troublemaker and Isabel's older brother, approached Rhiannon. He had been noticeably absent from the festivities, opting to keep a low profile until now. He wore a playful grin, a stark contrast to his usual troublemaking self.
“Rhiannon, gusto mo bang sumayaw?” Sébastien asked, extending his hand towards her.
Rhiannon, slightly surprised but amused, took his hand. “Okay lang, Sébastien. Gusto mo bang magpanggap na mabait ngayong gabi?”
Sébastien chuckled, leading Rhiannon to the center of the dance floor. “Minsan lang ‘to. I need to take advantage of my rare moments of decency.”
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Across the pavilion, Isabel and Jaxxon had started dancing. Jaxxon, known for his notorious antics, seemed genuinely interested in enjoying the evening. Isabel, however, kept a wary eye on him, her usual critical nature slightly softened by the event’s atmosphere.
“Isabel, gusto mo ba sumayaw kasama ako? Mukhang inaantok ka na kasi.” Jaxxon asked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Isabel smirked. “Ewan ko sa'yo, Jaxxon. Pero sa ngayon, sige, I'll dance with you for tonight.”
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Joshua, Rhiannon’s older brother and a figure who embodied the same authoritative demeanor as his younger sister, had been waiting for the right moment. When the opportunity arose, he approached Andrea, who had been observing the dance floor with a smile.
“Andrea, pwede ba kitang makasama sa sayawan?” Joshua asked, his tone unexpectedly gentle.
Andrea looked pleasantly surprised. “Siyempre, Joshua. Thank you for asking.”
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As the night wore on, the dance floor became a whirl of familiar faces and new memories. The couples enjoyed the slow dances, their conversations and laughter blending seamlessly with the soft melodies.
Maxwell, lost in the comfort of Wayne’s embrace, leaned in closer. “Alam mo, Wayne, ang saya ng ganitong pagkakataon. Hindi ko inaasahan na magkakaroon tayo ng ganitong oras na magkasama.”
Wayne’s smile widened. “Ako rin. Alam mo namang gusto ko ng oras para sa atin. Sana madami pang ganitong pagkakataon.”
Sébastien, dancing with Rhiannon, was surprisingly subdued. He looked at her with an expression of sincere respect. “Kumusta ka naman, Rhiannon? Mukhang pagod ka na.”
Rhiannon laughed softly. “Hindi naman. Nag-enjoy ako ngayong gabi. Salamat sa pag-anyaya sa akin.”
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Jaxxon, meanwhile, attempted to be on his best behavior. Isabel’s laughter, though guarded, indicated that she was at least somewhat enjoying herself despite Jaxxon’s antics.
Joshua and Andrea danced gracefully, their movements reflecting a shared understanding and mutual respect. The evening’s air was filled with the essence of relaxation and camaraderie, a brief respite from the pressures of academic life.
As the final notes of the evening’s last song began to fade, the students took in the serene beauty of the night. The event, meant to be a moment of relaxation and escape from the relentless pace of university life, had achieved its purpose.
Wayne held Maxwell close, whispering, “Sana makasama pa kita sa mga susunod na ganitong gabi.”
Maxwell nodded, his eyes sparkling with affection. “Sana nga. This night has been perfect.”
Rhiannon, finally able to breathe freely without the weight of her responsibilities pressing down on her, felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Tonight was a rare gift—a chance to relax and enjoy herself, surrounded by friends and family.
As the students began to leave, the night carried with it a promise of new beginnings and lasting memories. The event had not only provided a break from their demanding schedules but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and affection that held them together.
The pavilion, now quiet and emptying, stood as a silent witness to an evening of laughter, dance, and the enduring spirit of camaraderie among the students of UST.
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Patience and Affection
FanfictionWayne spends a day with his overly enthusiastic friend, Maxwell, testing the limits of his patience. As Wayne tries to endure Maxwell's over-the-top behavior, he begins to question whether their friendship is truly mutual or if Maxwell's feelings ru...
