And You Became My Favorite Track

Chapter 3

Between Strangers

A fleeting interaction, seemingly forgettable, marks the start of something uncharted.

In the midst of unfamiliar faces and new beginnings, two people unknowingly step onto a shared path. Their first meeting is nothing more than a quick, passing event, but it quietly sets the stage for what lies ahead.

"Congratulations Rylle! You made it! Please find your section on the first day of school." sabi ng babae na nag-interview sa akin.

Hay, mabuti naman at nakapasa ako. I was not really prepared for that, but phew! Thank You Lord!  I just wish tuloy tuloy na ito. I don't want to be embarrased—not today.

As I stepped out of the room, heading to the exit para hanapin si Mom at umuwi na when my shoe laces got caught under my foot. I stumbled.

Both of my knees were touching the floor. Buti sinalo ako ng mga palad ko, pressing against the floor. Tsk.

During my fall, there was a guy approaching, he stopped walking and stood before me, next to the door. Sabi ko kanina hindi dapat ako mapahiya on days like this. — What the heck, Rylle!

I tried to regain my balance as I crouched down to tie my laces and that guy was still standing there.

He looked to be around my age, dressed in a way that somehow made everything else seem less important. His fit looked classic, matching his warm, sun-kissed complexion that added to his effortless appeal.

His Lacoste sneakers shined in the light, his trousers were perfectly fitted, and his polo shirt looked crisp and smooth, like it was tailored just for him. It fit him perfectly—it stretched tightly across his broad chest, the fabric straining at the sleeves, nearly ready to rip from the size of his biceps. His abdomen peeked out slightly from beneath the shirt, showing off a defined stomach.

A watch sparkled on his wrist, and his glasses framed his face with a quiet kind of elegance.

And then there was his scent—a strong, unmistakable fragrance that lingered in the air, earthy and slightly spicy.

For a brief moment, our eyes met, and it felt like the world around us just... stopped.

His eyes looked so soft and round like a puppy's, having the ability to draw you in.

The noise of the hallway, the bustle of students, all faded into the background. It was just me and this guy, standing there in silence.

His gaze was steady,  I couldn't look away. His stares lasted for a few seconds.

I felt my heart beat a little faster, the atmosphere suddenly feeling heavier.

It was strange, this mix of unease and something else I couldn't quite place. Gusto ko nalang umalis.

I pulled my gaze away, suddenly aware of the awkwardness of the situation and stood up.

Nakakahiya nga yon. I told myself earlier that I should not be embarassed today.

"Hey, hey, careful there.." with a smile, his lips parted and spoke..

His voice was cold and deep yet it sounded so smooth to me.

I bit my lower lip and remained looking at my left with a smirk. My expressions were as usual, blank and empty, like I did not hear anything at all.