Chapter 17

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The movie industry is abuzz with excitement as the news spreads of an upcoming film adaptation of the highly anticipated bestseller "Rivers and Roads." Fans and readers alike are eagerly awaiting the revelation of the mystery writer behind the gripping book, which has captured the hearts and minds of countless people worldwide.

Speculation and theories are running rampant on social media and forums, with everyone from avid readers to book critics weighing in on the identity of the elusive author. With the movie production team remaining tight-lipped on the matter, the suspense continues to build as the premiere date approaches.

I closed the book with a sigh, a mixture of pride and satisfaction filling me as I added my signature to the cover. The news on the TV caught my attention, and a smile spread across my face as I read the headline: "Bestseller to Get Film Adaptation - Mystery Author's Identity Still Unknown."

My gaze landed on my adorable Cleo, napping peacefully on the table. I couldn't resist the urge to give her a gentle pet and plant a small, affectionate kiss on her head.

I have a free day ahead of me and no pressing work to attend to. I still plan on going out and stop by a place. I drove myself at a flower shop, admiring the beautiful array of bouquets lining the display window.

"Good morning, miss."

The owner greeted me with a smile as I stepped inside. The soft scent of freshly cut flowers greeted me, and I couldn't help but smile at the sight of the vibrant, colorful arrangements stacked on the shelves. Naglakad-lakad muna ako para makapili ng bulaklak na gusto kong dalhin. After wandering the aisles and mulling over which blooms to choose, I made my selections and headed to the counter to complete my purchase.

I ended up in a large, sprawling cemetery, its well-maintained lawns and rows of headstones standing out against the colorful surroundings of the city. The place was peaceful and I can hear the occasional whisper of the gentle wind and the soft rustling of leaves. It created a solemn atmosphere that was both tranquil and respectful.

Despite the weight of death that seemed to linger in the air, there was a strange sense of calmness.

I stopped by a headstone that had seen better days, its once-bold lettering now faded and worn by time. A pang of sadness and nostalgia hit me as I read the name etched on the stone, once so familiar, now barely visible. I took a moment, letting the silence of the cemetery envelop me, and reached out to brush away some of the moss that was growing on the grave.

I gently placed the bouquet of flowers I had purchased beside the grave, their colorful petals providing a stark contrast to the dull stone. Then, as a small tribute to her, I leaned down and set the book I had signed on the ground in front of the headstone.

"Read my work. Para 'di ka ma-bored." I said.

I stood there for a moment longer, silently paying my respects.

"You still appear my dreams. But can you stop now?"

After a few minutes of silent contemplation, I finally turned away from the headstone and walked back to my car. As I got in and started the engine, my mind was still lingering on the memories and emotions stirred up at the cemetery.

"I need coffee." I said.

The ride to my favorite café, however, offered a welcome distraction, as the familiar scenery and anticipation of a relaxing cup of coffee helped me put the somber visit behind me, at least for the moment.

"The usual po, miss?"

Kilala na ako ng barista rito dahil palagi na akong tambay. Ngumiti ako at tumango.

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