Youth [MikhAiah] [Book #1]

16

—🐶—

As the night stretches on, I find myself wandering over to my bookshelf, hoping to distract myself from the swirling thoughts in my mind. I run my fingers across the spines of the books—some worn, some pristine and untouched. I sigh, lingering on a particular title, "The Sun and Her Flowers." The poetry book that once helped me find the courage to break free from the person who made me feel small, the person who drained the color from my world.

I pull the book from the shelf, the familiar weight of it in my hands bringing a sense of comfort. I flip through the pages, the words of a famous poet that once gave me strength now feeling like an old friend. I sink into the couch, letting the rhythm of the verses calm my restless thoughts. I need to be stronger, not just for myself, but for the new connections I'm beginning to cherish.

—🐶—

Monday morning arrives with a cool breeze, the sun barely peeking over the horizon as I rev my motorcycle to life. The thoughts of Marc's unexpected reappearance linger in the back of my mind, casting a shadow over my morning. I can't help but be extra cautious, scanning every corner, every person on the street as if Marc could be lurking around any turn. The idea of him following me back to my apartment sends a chill down my spine.

When I finally arrive at the café, Juno is already there, leaning against the doorframe with his usual composed demeanor. "Good morning, Aiah," he greets me, his eyes soft but observant. For some reason, he's one of the few people who makes me feel genuinely safe lately.

"Morning, Jun," I reply, offering him a small smile as we walk inside together. As we enter, our boss is already bustling around, papers in hand. She offers us her usual warm greeting but quickly informs us that she'll be tied up with some paperwork, hinting at a new employee applying for a position.

"Ooh new employee." Juno mutters, raising an eyebrow as he catches my eye.

I nod, taking it in stride as we head to the locker room. The hum of the café's morning prep fills the air—coffee machines whirring, cups clinking, the quiet chatter of early customers. But my mind is elsewhere, still caught in the anxiety of Marc's sudden intrusion back into my life. As I tie my apron, I can't help but blurt out, "Y'know Jun, I'm sorry na medyo biglaan 'to pero.."
Juno pauses, his gaze sharpening as he looks at me. "I feel like I'm being watched or something."

He nods slowly, his voice steady. "That's why I thought you were acting a bit strange the other day." Juno added, "Who's this person? If okay lang sayo."

I swallow the lump in my throat, grateful for Juno's approach. "An ex-boyfriend and his name is Marc.." I sigh,"Ayaw ko lang din niya sirain yung buhay ko, just not again."

Juno places a firm hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently. "It's okay, nandito naman ako."

With a renewed sense of resolve, I focus on the tasks ahead, letting the rhythm of the café work soothe my nerves. The morning rush passes in a blur, and soon the café settles into a quieter, more relaxed pace. Our boss emerges from her office, her expression bright as she approaches us.