Everything I Wanted

First Stop, Pasay - 17

The morning sunlight filtered softly through the curtains of Billie's room as Story stirred awake. She stretched, her body slowly waking up after a good night's rest. She turned her head to find Billie already awake, her face illuminated by the glow of her phone screen as she scrolled through her notifications.

"Good morning," Billie said, her voice husky from sleep, catching Story's gaze and offering a small smile.

"Morning," Story replied, sitting up and running her hands through her tousled hair. "You've been up long?"

"Not really," Billie answered, setting her phone aside. "I figured I'd let you sleep in a bit."

Story chuckled. "Thanks. I guess I needed it."

The two sat in comfortable silence for a moment before Billie gestured toward the door. "Should we see what my mom's up to? She's probably in the kitchen."

Story nodded and followed Billie out. The height difference between them was obvious as Billie, at 5'3", effortlessly led the way, while Story, at 5', had to quicken her steps to keep up.

When they entered the kitchen, Maggie was already there, sipping coffee and jotting something down in a notebook. She looked up and greeted them warmly.

"Morning, girls. How'd you sleep?" Maggie asked, her eyes kind as always.

"Great," Story said, glancing at Billie, who nodded in agreement.

"Good to hear. So, your flight doesn't leave until one this afternoon," Maggie informed them. "Plenty of time to double-check everything and make sure you've got what you need."

Both girls sighed in relief. "That's perfect," Billie said, leaning against the counter. "I was worried we'd have to rush."

As they chatted, Maggie made them a light breakfast of toast and eggs, insisting they needed energy for the long travel day ahead. Story couldn't help but feel grateful for how welcoming Maggie was. It was clear how much she supported Billie, and now, Story too, as she prepared to tag along for this unforgettable adventure.

When breakfast was done, the real prep began, with Billie leading Story through a checklist of essentials for the trip. The dynamic between them was relaxed and natural, as if they'd been friends forever. Though Story still admired Billie deeply, the fan-girl frenzy had simmered into something more grounded. They were friends now, and Story had finally accepted it—a truth that felt both surreal and comforting.

Now, they were just two girls getting ready for a journey that would change their lives in unexpected ways.

✨

As they arrived at the airport, Story trailed behind Billie's family, clutching the strap of her duffle bag as she tried to keep up. The airport was buzzing with life, but Billie, Maggie, and the rest of the crew moved effortlessly through it, clearly accustomed to the routine. Story's excitement bubbled under the surface, but she kept herself composed, not wanting to seem too out of place.

Billie turned her head and smiled at Story. "You good back there?"

"Yeah, just taking it all in," Story replied, her lips curving into a small smile.

They navigated past security and skipped the usual chaos of long lines. Before Story could even process where they were headed, they exited the terminal and stepped outside. The fresh air hit her, along with the sight of the tarmac stretching ahead. A sleek private jet sat waiting for them, its glossy exterior reflecting the morning light.

Story's eyes widened in quiet amazement, though she quickly schooled her expression. She understood why Billie couldn't fly economy—privacy was a necessity for someone like her—but it was still a surreal experience.