Key to You

Prologue

I NEVER believed in coincidences. The idea that things just happen as if they were orchestrated by some mysterious cosmic force seems absurd to me.

Life is less about luck and more about intention. The choices we make, the actions we take and efforts we put in are those that shape our lives. It is certainly not some unseen hand in the universe pulling strings to our fate.

People who attribute their achievements to coincidence are, in my opinion, selling themselves short. They choose to downplay the efforts they invested and give all the credit to luck. It really annoys me to no end. Just like this classmate of mine...

"Wow you got 49 over 50? Ang galing mo naman. Share your secret naman idol." A classmate exclaimed, catching attention from everyone nearby.

Elaine just waved it off like it was nothing. "Naku tsamba lang to. Di nga ako nakastudy kagabi eh. Nag-inuman kami kasi birthday ni Jel."

I rolled my eyes.

Talaga ba, Elaine? Tsamba lang?

INTACC yun eh. One of the hardest subjects we have and it's not something you will magically ace without hours of effort. Who is she fooling?

"Galing naman ni Elaine. Almost perfect niya na. Eh ikaw ba Liv? Ilan nakuha mo?" Tanong ni Kriz.

I smiled smuggly and showed her my test paper. "Perfect to!"

Kriz's eyes lit up and said, "48 din ako 2 mistakes kasi kulang decimal places ko. But still, congrats sa atin Liv!" Then we both squealed in delight.

Unlike others who settle in the flimsy explanation of luck for the reality of their accomplishments, I on the other hand, beg to differ.

I worked hard to get to where I am. I study long hours to get good grades. And I won't let luck take credit for my hard work.

Fastforward to today. I've graduated as summa cumlaude and now work as a Financial Analyst in PwC. The path I chose for myself is hard. My life is built on logic, planning, and drive, avoiding anything or anyone that distracts me from my goal. Relationships, parties, all those things seem like luxuries to me, distraction from the big picture.

Or at least, that's what I've always told myself.

But to be real honest, I feel this nagging sense that maybe I'm missing something. When I look around, I see people going out, stepping outside their routines, and living a little. And sometimes, I wonder... maybe they know something I don't.

And to find out exactly that, against my insticts, I decided to join Kriz for a night out with her boyfriend and his barkada.

"OH MY GOD, Liv! You look good in your dress!" Kriz exclaimed as soon as she saw me.

Of course. I was intentional when I was picking my outfit. I wanted to look sultry but still conservative. I chose a sleek black wrap dress that hugs my figure, stopping just above my knees. The V-neckline is modest but frames my collarbones, drawing just enough attention without revealing too much. I paired the dress with heels that lengthen my legs with a hint of subtle gold jewelry. My hair is loosely styled, with soft waves that frame my face.

"Well, thank you. It's been a while since I did something that's remotely adventurous so I might as well look the part. And you look beautiful too." I said.

Kriz cricled around me and finally stopped in front to pinch my cheeks lightly.

"I am so excited to show you the world outside spreadsheets and balance sheets." Kriz teased.

"Hey you make me sound like a workaholic." Alma ko brushing her hands off, but she only laughed.

"Girl, you are. Aminin na natin. But now, we will have fun. And," she came closer to whisper. "Irereto ko sayo best friend ng jowa ko. He's an engineer, super stable and super kind. I just feel like you'll both hit it off." K said giggling.

I rolled my eyes at her, trying not to cringe. Sure, I am open to relationships, but forced setups like a reto feels awkward. I'd rather much meet someone organically. Makes my mind feel at ease without the unspoken pressure of hitting things off just because we are matched by our friends.

Besides, I like having the option to ghost guys when they mess things up. And I definitely wouldn't ghost my friend's friends. It'll be too problematic.

"Dame! ready the car. We'll now go to After Hours." Kriz bossed to her boyfriend.

WHEN we stepped into the bar, I immediately feel like I'm in a different world. The music is loud, the lights dim and warm, casting everyone in a golden glow. It was a far cry from my natural habitat.

For once, I tried to shut off the part of my brain that's always calculating and just tried to go with the flow. Kriz sure did try to pair me up with her boyfriend's friend, but it feels so forced. The vibe was just wasn't there.

After a couple of hours of drinking and small talks with Ken, I decided to find Kriz and let her know that I'll be heading out na.

Ang babaitang yon iniwan talaga ako with a stranger!

This experience was fun, sure, but it wasn't exactly what I was looking for. And I am missing the solace of my comfort zone.

As I walked past the crowd searching for Kriz and Dame, I took in the sight of people laughing and talking, as if they have nothing on their minds. They seemed so at ease and fully at the moment. I started to wonder if I'll ever feel that way.

Then, out of nowhere, someone bumped into me hard.

I turned, startled, only to see a man who's clearly had one too many drinks. His face flushed and eyes unfocused.

Before I can react, he stumbles, sending his drink, and his dinner, all over me.

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