Author's Note:
Sorry ngayon lang nakapag-update. I was sick.
Anyways, here's another story. Hopefully, you like it!
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"Don't look at me like that."
The first time I heard her telling me that was when we were at the café. We decided to meet up there to finish our partnered project for our class.
Hindi ko naintindihan agad ang ibig niyang sabihin sa araw na iyon. It was so random, but at the same time it isn't.
The café is peaceful. Wala masyadong tao ngayon kaya wala rin istorbo sa paggawa namin ni Maloi ng project. Her attention is fixated on her laptop where she carefully studies her part of the research.
I can't help but notice her features. Her eyes turn hazel as the soft light of the sun shone on her face. Her curly hair is tucked behind her ears. Her breathing is calm like it matches her concentration to her work.
"Don't look at me like that." Maloi said. I creased my forehead, confused with what she meant by that.
"Huh?"
"Quit looking at me na para bang pinag-aaralan mo ako." She explained without looking at me. Napaayos ako ng upo dahil dito. I turned my attention to my laptop and started to type something.
"Hindi kaya kita tinitignan." I lied. I don't want her to think that I'm silently observing her.
Unconvinced, she said, "if you say so."
We then continued with what we were doing. I finalised my draft before sending it to her to compile it. It was almost afternoon when we finished our project.
"Pupunta ka ba?" Tanong niya sa'kin habang nililigpit ang gamit niya.
"Saan?"
"Sa birthday party ni Jho."
"Pupunta ka ba?"
"Yes." I slowly nod my head in acknowledgement.
"Okay, pupunta din ako. Sabay na ba tayo?" I answered.
"I'm with Gwen, sa party na lang tayo magkita."
"Sure. Bukas na 'yun diba?"
"Yeah. 7pm sa bahay ni Jho."
"Got it. See you then." After that, she bid her goodbye. I was left inside the café while I watched her fading figure out of the establishment.
*****
The second time she told me the exact same sentence was our graduation day. She asked me to take a picture with her which I happily granted.
The school field is packed with students wearing black robes while holding a maroon diploma holder. Everyone is happy with their families and friends taking pictures—savoring the moment.
A soft hand suddenly held mine that made me look to my side. It was Maloi. She looks so perfect with her simple makeup and happy smile.
"Let's take a picture." She tugged me towards her sister who's now holding a camera. She removed her hand from me, but she placed it on my waist. I turned to see her with a bit of confusion and was surprised, however she's already smiling at the camera.
