The One Who Stares Behind

PAGBABALIK

They say the Philippines is a beautiful country to visit. Honestly, I never planned to stay—this place isn't where I truly belong. But there's no denying it, this country is magnificent, and the people here are warm and welcoming.

"Lexus, when did you arrive?"
"A week ago." I replied, and he simply nodded.

"How long are you staying?"
I paused before responding. "Look, I just got here. I'm not planning to stay long—just needed a break from your mom."

He let out a deep sigh, tapping my shoulder lightly. "What's going on, bro?"
"Nothing. Just here for a week," I muttered.

It's funny how even a short break can make you question everything.

Who am I kidding? The moment I set foot in Westfield, I knew I was done for. And now, here I am—completely captured by the sight of her, the embodiment of beauty.

I can't tear my eyes away. From a distance, I watch her every move, captivated by every little detail. I might look like a stalker, but honestly—who's going to care?

"Bro, he just said yes!" It was brother, Lewis.

"Congrats, dude! Napakaswerte mo talaga. Biruin mo naman talaga ang tadhana oh!"

"Magseryoso ka na, Khairo," Lewis teased him, a smirk on his face.
"Gago kasi, e," Carlos shot back, teasing his twin.

From their circle, it was obvious Rachel wasn't too thrilled about the idea of my brother being in a relationship.

"Lexus, batiin mo naman 'tong kuya mo!"
"So, you finally have a girlfriend, huh? Congrats."
"Thanks, Lexus. Thought you left."
"To disappoint you, I'm already enrolled."

Their faces shifted, clearly amused by my unexpected announcement.
"Whoah! Double celebration! Lexus is staying with us!"

I'm staying, alright. But not for them—she's the reason. The moment I laid eyes on her, I was already caught. She has a grip on me, tight around my neck, and I can't escape. I will have her.

"I need to excuse myself," I said, heading toward the admin office to pick up my schedule.
"Sige, bro! Magpractice ka na rin mag-Tagalog," Khairo called after me, the bastard.

"Zi!"
"Yes, Becca?"

Fuck. The world seemed to freeze as she turned to look at the girl who called her name. It was like time itself had stopped, and everything faded except for her.

"Nakakainggit ka na talaga! Haba ng hair mo, e no?" Damn, she smiled. And that smile... it hit harder than I expected. This is only the first day—what about the days to come? I wanted to go up to her, introduce myself, but before I could even move, she started walking away. I was frozen in place, helpless. I could only watch her retreating figure from afar.

The moment I got to the admin office, I wasted no time and requested to switch sections. She can't escape me. I will keep her close, and eventually, she will like me.

A few hours later, I saw her again, a little distracted as she walked my way. Perfect. I decided to make my move. If destiny won't allow us together, then I'll make it happen.

I stepped right into her path.

"Aray!"
"You're not looking where you're going." She rolled her eyes, clearly irritated, and looked up at me. God, I could get lost in those eyes forever.

"Dahil nakaharang ka diyan, tabi nga!" She snapped, her tone sharp. I liked that—her confidence, the bite in her voice. Even as she walked away, I could still smell her sweet, fruity perfume lingering in the air. It was intoxicating, addictive.