Love Persist

Kabanata 50 - Where the sky and horizon meet in endless love.

Given my multitude of responsibilities and a demanding career, waking up without the jarring sound of an alarm clock was a rare luxury, particularly on weekends, except for special occasions.

This Saturday morning, however, broke the norm. I stirred awake to the gentle warmth of sunlight streaming through the sheer curtains and the soft, comforting touch of a delicate hand tracing gentle patterns on my arm. As I slowly opened my eyes, I was greeted by the sight of Heaven, her face only inches from mine, a radiant smile lighting up her beautiful features.

"Good morning, Ceci," she whispered, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on the tip of my nose.

This one too. I still had to wrap my head around the fact that waking up to this precious sight was now becoming a regular part of my everyday life. Instead of voicing my thoughts, I simply pulled her closer, savoring the sensation of her soft skin against mine, and placed a tender kiss on her forehead.

"Good morning," I murmured, my voice still laced with the remnants of sleep. "Have you been up for long?"

"Yes," she replied, snuggling deeper into my embrace.

"And you've just been watching me sleep?"

Her cheeks took on a faint blush as she nodded. "In my defense, ang peaceful mo kasi matulog. I tried to go back to sleep, but I couldn't na. I'm just excited sa date natin today."

I couldn't help but chuckle at her endearing confession. Gently, I tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, marveling at the way the morning light illuminated her features.

"Well, in that case, I guess we better get started on our day, hmm?"

"Hindi mo talaga sasabihin sa'kin kung saan tayo pupunta?"

I shook my head with a playful grin. "It's a surprise for a reason. But I'll make sure you have an unforgettable time."

With that, I pressed a lingering kiss to her lips, savoring the familiar sweetness, before reluctantly pulling away and urging us both to get ready for the day. I prepared a simple but hearty breakfast, knowing we'd need the energy for the activities I had planned.

By the time we finished eating, we decided to choose comfortable yet stylish outfits-which for Heaven meant a flowy sundress and sandals, and for me, a one-shoulder top, skinny jeans, and a pair of loafers. Excited yet curious, Heaven followed me as I led her out to the parking lot, where my car was waiting. Looking at the time, we still had a few hours before our destination, so I suggested we go to a place that I had been wanting to go to but never had the chance since I was always busy with everything else.

The place was not too far away, just a short drive from the city. I pulled into the parking lot of one of the best SPA resorts in the area and turned to Heaven, grinning. But she just looked at me with wide-eyed wonder, clearly not expecting this.

"Hindi sa nagrereklamo ako, Ceci, pero SPA? What are we doing here?"

I laughed softly, taking her hand in mine. "We're going to spend the morning getting pampered. I figured we deserve a little relaxation before the rest of our day."

Her eyes flew open even wider, if that was possible. "'Di nga? Ibig sabihin, i-i-involve tayo ng mga massage, facials, and all that fancy stuff?"

"Yes, I booked us a couple's package. I'm sure you're going to love it."

I squeezed her hand reassuringly as we made our way inside. The crew at the reception were expecting us and immediately ushered us to the changing rooms, where we were provided with plush bathrobes and slippers.

"'Buti na lang talaga nag-effort akong magscrub kanina," Heaven said as we settled into our massage beds, the soothing scent of aromatherapy oils enveloping us. "Kung hindi, baka maging lumpiang libag ako dito."