Maybe, Someday

Chapter 9

Zyd's POV

I remember the summer when everything changed. I was 22, and the world felt like it was bursting with possibilities.

But in the midst of that, my heart was undeniably tethered to someone much younger—Serene. At 17, she was a whirlwind of light and laughter, and every moment spent with her felt like a precious gift.

Her brilliance was intoxicating; the way she smiled could light up even the darkest days.

I had developed feelings for her that ran deeper than I dared to admit. But the truth was, she was still a minor, and it felt wrong to entertain those emotions.

I found solace in being her older sister figure, always there to guide her, to support her in her dreams and aspirations. I was her unwavering protector, and I would do anything for her.

She would come to me with her hopes, her worries, and I would listen, offering comfort in every way I could.

Whether it was helping with school projects, cheering her on in everything that she does, or just being there to share ice cream on lazy afternoons, I cherished every moment.

I settled into this role, convincing myself that it was enough. Nothing made me happier than seeing her smile, and I would gladly bear any burden to keep that joy alive.

But one fateful afternoon, everything changed.

I was about to go to their house since I promised her that I would take her out if she passed their exam. She did. I couldn't be more proud of her.

On my way to her, I could vividly remember that I was very excited. I bought her favorite flowers and milk tea.

When I was about to get out of my car, I suddenly felt an excruciating pain in my chest. I suddenly felt like I couldn't breathe.

She saw my car from the inside and I saw her running towards me, looking so beautiful and excited. But I immediately drove off.

I saw her eyes filled with pain and confusion from my side mirror while I was running away from her. I wanted to smack my head for hurting her but I also couldn't let her see me like this.

Please don't cry, my princess. I don't deserve those precious tears.

I had been having these symptoms for quite a while. But I ignored it, thinking it was normal.

Today was different, though. My chest was hurting really really bad. I was running out of breath.

When I reached our home, I saw my parents in our living room, and the next thing I know, everything went black.

I woke up at the hospital and tests revealed the truth: I had coronary artery disease.

The diagnosis hit me like a freight train, shattering the fragile world I had built around Serene.

I had kept my feelings for her under lock and key, but now I faced a new fear—the fear of what my illness could mean for her. I didn't want to burden her with my struggles;

I couldn't stand the thought of her worrying about me.

So, I made a decision. I would keep my diagnosis a secret and deny the love I felt for Serene. I would be her savior, her rock, her 'older sister', and nothing more. I settled into this role, hiding my illness behind a smile, always ready to support her, to cheer her on, while quietly enduring treatments in silence.

My mind raced back to the promise I had made to Serene, and shame washed over me. How could I face her now?

Days passed as I recovered, but the guilt lingered. I had wanted to take her out, to share a moment that would strengthen the bond between us, but instead, I will put a barrier between us, one built on fear and secrecy.

When I was finally out of the hospital, I immediately went to Serene. She was very mad at me. I had to make it up for her for a week before she finally forgave me.

She asked me a lot of questions about that day, but I tried my best to avoid it. Thankfully, she forgot about it eventually.

The time continued like that.

Whenever she confessed her feelings, I brushed them aside. "You're just young, Serene. You'll find someone amazing," I would say, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach my eyes.

Each denial felt like a dagger to my heart, but I was convinced it was the only way to protect her.

I wanted to be the one she turned to, the one who could make everything right. I wanted to be there for her as she ventured into adulthood, but I couldn't shake the fear that my time was limited.

I couldn't let her be weighed down by the possibility of losing me.

As the years passed, I settled into this bittersweet routine, always cherishing the moments we shared. I was her older sister figure, and her protector. I took care of her in every way I could, proud of the role I played in her life, even as my heart ached for the love I had to keep hidden.

In my heart, I knew that Serene was the only person I would do everything for. She was the light in my life, the reason I fought against the darkness of my illness.

Even though it's hard and painful, I tried to fight this disease. Deep inside, I was hoping that maybe, just maybe, the universe would pity me and make this go away.

Deep inside, I was hoping that one day, I would wake up without worrying that my time with Serene was numbered.

Deep inside, I was hoping that if there is someone up there, who's listening, I hope it would let me be happy with my life.

I hope it will let me be happy with my rest.

I hope it will let me be happy with my Serene.

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Author's note: Please know that Aki's love for Serene was genuine. She knows Serene was still a minor back then, so she stopped her feelings toward her. SHE DOESN'T HAVE ANY ILL OR BAD INTENTIONS! All the things she did for Serene was out of genuine love and respect.

This is just a short update, also this is the last POV of Aki before we go back to Serene's. That's all hehe. I hope you are enjoying this story so far. I apologize for the slow update. School responsibilities was taking a toll on me latelyyyyyyyyyyyy.