Kumpas

132 10 9
                                    

TW: Anxiety

A bustling theater rehearsal room. Risa stands under the harsh glare of stage lights, her heart racing as the director's voice pierces the air.

"Risa! You need to project more! What's wrong with you?!" the frustrated director barks.

Risa's breath quickens. The eyes of her fellow actors, filled with judgment, weigh heavily on her. Panic rises within her.

"I'm trying... I swear, I'm trying..." Risa mutters to herself.

The director's voice booms again, and Risa's vision blurs. She steps back, gripping the edge of a nearby table for support, her hands shaking.

"Risa, get it together!" the director commands.

Risa glances toward Leni, who stands off to the side, concern etched on her face. She feels lost, like she's disappearing in front of everyone.

"Breathe, Risa. Focus on me," Leni softly urges, approaching her.

Risa takes a shaky breath, her eyes locking onto Leni's. It's a moment of calm amid the chaos.

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

Leni's therapy office, a cozy space filled with books and soft lighting. Risa sits on the couch, fidgeting with her bracelet, her expression weary but open.

"So, how have you been feeling lately?" Leni asks, noting Risa's discomfort.

"I've been thinking a lot... about our sessions and everything," Risa responds hesitantly.

"I'm here for you. Whatever you want to share, go ahead," Leni encourages.

"I feel like I'm stuck. It's like I'm drowning in expectations. Maybe it's time for a change, pero hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko," Risa admits vulnerably.

Leni nods, recognizing the weight of Risa's words.

"That's completely valid, Risa. Maybe it's time to explore other options. You know I care about you, but I think it might be best if I refer you to another therapist," Leni suggests gently.

"I don't think that's necessary. Ikaw ang gusto ko... I mean ikaw ang gusto kong therapist." Risa asks, surprised.

"I want you to have the best support, especially since we've developed this friendship. It's important for your healing," Leni replies softly.

"Let me think about it." Risa says softly

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

A quiet park, the sun setting in hues of orange and pink. Risa and Leni sit on a bench, the atmosphere relaxed and intimate. They hold hands, a spark of something deeper in the air.

"So, when do I get to call you my therapist and my best friend?" Risa playfully inquires.

"I think you just did!" Leni laughs.

Their laughter fades into a comfortable silence as they exchange glances, the unspoken bond growing stronger.

"I don't know what I would do without you, Leni. You make me feel safe," Risa confesses softly.

Leni leans closer, brushing her thumb over Risa's knuckles.

"You deserve to feel safe. You're stronger than you realize, Risa," Leni whispers.

In that moment, Risa leans in, their lips brushing together in a tentative kiss. It's sweet and filled with promise, a shift in their relationship.

"I think I like this new chapter," Risa smiles.

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