Vapor: The Tagaytay Timeline

Chapter 43

Chapter 43: Moments of Bond

Vapor stood at the front door, adjusting his jacket as the cool morning air swept over him. Today was going to be different. While he had spent countless hours with Rosie, this day was meant for him and Mira—formerly known to him and others as Miles. It had been a while since they had one-on-one time, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that she had something important on her mind.

"Ready?" Mira asked, stepping out from her house. She smiled, but there was something in her eyes, a hint of seriousness.

Vapor smiled back. "Of course! Let’s go."

---

A Quiet Start

They began their day walking through the park, the fallen autumn leaves crunching beneath their feet. The early hours kept the park quiet, with only the occasional jogger or dog-walker passing by.

“So... Mira,” Vapor began, the name rolling off his tongue slowly, as if he were testing it out for the first time. “It’s been kind of different, y’know, not calling you ‘Miles’ anymore.”

Mira glanced over at him and chuckled lightly. "Yeah, I figured that’d be a bit weird for everyone at first. But there’s a reason behind it. Want to hear the full story?"

“Absolutely!” Vapor said, his curiosity piqued. He watched as Mira took a deep breath, her expression softening as she looked toward the distant horizon.

---

Mira’s Story

“When I was younger,” Mira started, “I always felt like I had to be something I wasn’t. ‘Miles’ was a name that I felt forced into because I thought it made me look tough, like I had to prove myself to everyone. You know... being ‘cool’ and all.”

Vapor nodded. “I get it. People expect certain things from you, and sometimes it’s just easier to go along with it.”

“Exactly,” she said, her tone becoming a little more reflective. “But that wasn’t me. It was like putting on armor that didn’t quite fit right, and after a while, it just got tiring. I didn’t feel like I had to hide who I was anymore—so I asked people to call me by my real first name, Mira.”

Vapor smiled softly. "Mira suits you. It’s... more you, I guess. And honestly, if that’s who you are, then I think it’s awesome.”

Mira’s face brightened. “Thanks, Vapor. It means a lot. I was a little worried at first about how everyone would take it, but you’ve all been pretty cool about it.”

“Of course! We’re friends, right?” Vapor added with his usual upbeat energy. “No matter what name you go by, you’re still the same person I’ve always known.”

Mira chuckled. "You’re kind of sappy sometimes, you know that?"

“Hey!” Vapor shot back playfully. “You’re the one getting all deep on me here. I’m just trying to keep up!”

They both laughed, the mood lightening as they continued their walk.

---

Rosie's Appearance

As they passed by a street corner, Rosie appeared out of nowhere, waving energetically from across the road.

"Hey, you two!" Rosie called out, her voice filled with warmth and excitement. She dashed over and gave both of them quick hugs. "What are you up to today?"

"We're just spending the day together," Mira explained. "Some quality bonding time."

Rosie gave a knowing smile. "Well, don't let me get in the way of that! I’m actually heading to the store, so I’ll catch up with you later. Have fun!" She winked at Vapor before disappearing down the street.

Vapor watched her leave, a soft grin on his face. "She’s always so energetic."

Mira nodded. "Yeah, she’s something else."

---

Fun at the Skate Park

After Rosie’s brief appearance, Vapor and Mira made their way to the local skate park. Vapor had never been the best skater, but Mira was a natural. She hopped on her skateboard effortlessly, zooming around the park with ease while Vapor clutched his board nervously.

“You’re going to kill it, Vapor!” Mira called out encouragingly as she circled him. “Just give it a try!”

Vapor hesitated for a moment but took a deep breath. “Alright, here goes nothing!”

He stepped onto his board and pushed off, wobbling slightly but managing to stay upright. Mira clapped her hands, cheering him on. “See? You’ve got it!”

“Barely,” Vapor muttered, his arms flailing slightly for balance.

Suddenly, he hit a small bump, causing him to lose his balance completely and fall forward. But before he could hit the ground, Mira was there, catching him by the arm and pulling him back up.

“Whoa, close one!” Mira laughed, helping him steady himself.

“Thanks for the save!” Vapor said, laughing along with her. “Skating is definitely not my thing.”

“That’s okay,” Mira replied, patting him on the back. “You don’t have to be good at everything. We’re here to have fun.”

Vapor grinned. “I can get behind that.”

---

A Moment of Reflection

After their time at the skate park, they found a quiet bench to sit on, looking out at the park as the sun began to dip toward the horizon.

“You know,” Vapor began, “I’ve been thinking... you’ve always been this strong, confident person. I kind of admire that about you.”

Mira glanced at him, slightly surprised. “Me? Confident? You sure we’re talking about the same person?”

Vapor laughed. “Yeah, you! You’ve always had this strength, even back when you were going by Miles. I think it’s pretty cool how you’ve grown into who you are now.”

Mira blushed slightly, brushing her hair behind her ear. “I guess... I’ve just been trying to figure myself out like everyone else. But I appreciate that, Vapor.”

There was a brief silence between them, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was a moment of mutual understanding, a sign of how close they had become.

“You’re not too bad yourself,” Mira added, smirking. “You’ve grown a lot too, y’know? A little sassy, a little more confident. Rosie’s definitely had an effect on you.”

Vapor grinned. “Hey, I’m still me. Just a better version, I guess.”

Mira nodded. “Exactly.”

---

End of the Day

As the day came to an end, they began walking back toward their homes. The air was cool, and the sky was painted in hues of orange and pink.

“You know, today was pretty great,” Vapor said, glancing at Mira.

“Yeah, it was,” Mira agreed. “We should do this more often. Just the two of us.”

Vapor nodded. “Definitely. I’m glad we had this time. And from now on, I’ll make sure to call you Mira, no problem.”

“Thanks, Vapor. You’re a good friend,” Mira said, her voice warm.

As they parted ways at their homes, Vapor felt a deep sense of gratitude. Mira was someone he could count on, and their friendship was stronger than ever. It wasn’t just about the names or the moments of fun—it was about knowing they had each other’s backs, no matter what.

---

End of Chapter 43

This chapter focuses on deepening the bond between Vapor and Mira, giving Mira the space to explain why she chose to embrace her first name, and how Vapor supports her. There’s a balance between light-hearted moments and meaningful conversation, showcasing how close the two have become. Rosie’s short appearance keeps the connection to their relationship but leaves the focus on Vapor and Mira's friendship.