Running Out of Songs (LenRisa One-Shot Stories)

Sining

A flower is not a flower until they bloom
Like my first time living life the day I met you

Leni was both excited and anxious as she prepared for her first solo art exhibit at the local museum. The walls were adorned with her vibrant paintings, each piece reflecting her journey as an artist. Friends and family had come to support her, but deep down, she worried about how her conservative family would react to the themes in her work.

On the night of the exhibit, the museum buzzed with energy. Guests mingled, sipping wine and admiring the artwork. Leni stood by her favorite piece, a colorful representation of the ocean, hoping to engage with visitors but feeling shy and unsure.

As she was lost in thought, a lively figure entered the exhibit, drawing everyone's attention. Risa, recently moved to the town, had come to explore the local art scene. She was curious and eager to learn about the stories behind the art.

"Wow, this is incredible!" Risa exclaimed, approaching Leni with a bright smile. "Your use of color is amazing! It's like I can feel the waves just by looking at it."

Leni felt a rush of warmth at the compliment and smiled back, her nerves easing. "Thank you! I wanted to capture the beauty and power of the ocean. It's been a big part of my life."

"Talaga? I love the ocean! There's something so freeing about it," Risa replied, her eyes sparkling. "What inspired you to create this piece?"

Leni paused for a moment, feeling a connection with Risa. "I guess I've always found solace by the sea. When I paint, I try to bring that sense of peace into my work. Minsan, it's the only place I feel truly myself."

Risa nodded, leaning in closer as they spoke. "I get that. I write, and sometimes I feel the same way when I'm crafting a story. It's like I can escape and be whoever I want to be."

"Writing, huh? That's amazing! Anong klase ng mga kwento ang sinusulat mo?" Leni asked, intrigued.

"Anything that inspires me, really. But I want to focus on stories that resonate with our culture—yung mga kwento ng mga tao. I think there's so much beauty in that," Risa explained passionately.

As they talked, Leni felt her heart race. There was an undeniable chemistry between them, and their conversation flowed effortlessly.

"Baka kailangan ko ng isang writer para mag-help sa mga titles and captions ng mga paintings ko," Leni joked, her laughter bubbling over.

"Count me in! I'd love to collaborate," Risa replied, grinning. "Let's create something beautiful together."

Leni felt a sense of hope and excitement, knowing she had found not only a fan of her art but a kindred spirit in Risa.

-----------------------------------------------

Manila International Book Fair, Pasay City. The bustling venue is filled with booths, books, and eager readers. Leni wanders through the aisles, still buzzing from the excitement of the art exhibit, feeling inspired by her recent success. She pauses at Risa's booth, where a crowd has gathered for her book signing.

"Thank you so much for your support! It means the world to me. I hope you enjoy the stories!" Risa smiles brightly at her fans, her energy infectious.

Leni's heart races as she catches sight of Risa at the front of the booth, looking radiant. As Leni steps closer, she feels a sense of familiarity wash over her.

"I can't believe it's her again," Leni whispers to herself.

As Risa finishes signing a book, she glances up and her eyes lock onto Leni's. A smile spreads across Risa's face as if she had been waiting for this moment.