Love and Resilience

A First Monthsary to Remember

SERENA’S POV

It was a day I had been eagerly anticipating the first monthsary with Jovana. I had spent the morning preparing and anticipating every moment, knowing this day was special not just for the milestones we had reached but for the love we were building together.

After Jovana finished her shift at the hospital, I waited for her at the entrance. I couldn’t help but feel a flutter of excitement as I saw her walking towards me. Her tired smile melted away as she noticed the bouquet of flowers in my hand. I approached her with a grin.

“Surprise!” I said, handing her the flowers.

Jovana’s eyes lit up as she took the bouquet. “Love, ang gaganda ng mga 'to. And you really know my favorite flowers ha. Thank you!” She leaned in for a quick, heartfelt kiss. “I’m so glad we’re doing this.”

We made our way to the car, our hands intertwined. The drive to Intramuros was filled with easy conversation and laughter. As we arrived, the historic charm of the area provided the perfect backdrop for our celebration.

We wandered through the cobbled streets, enjoying the blend of old-world charm and modern life. We stopped at various street vendors, sampling local delicacies. I couldn’t resist taking photos of the vibrant street scenes and the joy on Jovana’s face.

As we sat down on a bench overlooking the old city walls, Jovana handed me a small, neatly wrapped box. Her eyes were full of anticipation.

“Happy monthsary, love. I love you” she said softly.

I carefully unwrapped the gift, revealing a delicate bracelet with tiny charms representing special moments we had shared. I was speechless, overcome by emotion. “Love, this is so beautiful. Thank you. It means so much to me. Happy monthsary and I love you so much."

Jovana took my hand and clasped the bracelet around my wrist. “I wanted something to remind you of this day and all the days we have ahead.”

I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest. “I love it. And I love you.”

We spent the next few hours walking around, taking in the sights and capturing the moments with my camera. Each photo was a testament to the happiness we felt.

As the sun began to set, we headed to Jovana’s house. The evening was filled with a comfortable quiet as we settled in. We cooked dinner together something simple, but the act of preparing it side by side felt intimate and special.

Later, as we lay in bed, we talked about everything and nothing. The conversation flowed effortlessly, from silly anecdotes to our dreams for the future. Jovana’s presence beside me was the greatest comfort, and as we drifted off to sleep, I felt a profound sense of contentment.

The next morning

I woke up alone in the bed, the space beside me cool and empty. I stretched and rubbed the sleep from my eyes, noticing the delicious smell of something cooking. Curiosity led me to the kitchen, where I found Jovana at the stove, her back to me.

"Good morning, sleepyhead." Jovana said, glancing over her shoulder with a cheerful tone.

“Morning,” I replied, walking up behind her and wrapping my arms around her waist. “Something smells amazing. What are you making?”

“Just a little breakfast surprise,” she said, her voice light and happy. “Thought it’d be a nice way to start our first full day together after our monthsary.”

I could see her stirring a pan and setting out plates and utensils. "Hindi mo naman na kailangang gawin yan, love. But I’m really glad you did.”