My Last And My Only

Chapter 138: Home

The best thing about having Chico as their tour guide was that he didn't show them the Cebu they could easily find online.

He showed them the Cebu he knew.

The small food stalls he used to visit after school.

The streets he memorized because he had taken them a hundred times.

The places that held little pieces of his life.

Their first stop was Magellan's Cross.

The girls walked around the area, taking pictures and listening as Chico explained the history behind the landmark.

Christine looked around thoughtfully.

"I feel like I should be more serious right now."

Everyone looked at her.

"What?"

"You are standing in front of an important historical site."

"I know."

"So why do you look like you're about to buy snacks?"

Christine looked offended.

"I can appreciate history and food at the same time."

Yves sighed.

"That's the most Christine thing you've ever said."

Aiah laughed beside Khae.

The crowd around them was bigger than expected, and when people passed too close, Khae naturally reached for Aiah's hand.

A simple gesture.

One that neither of them had to think about.

Aiah looked down at their hands and smiled.

Khae noticed.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"You're smiling."

"I am."

"Why?"

Aiah squeezed her hand lightly.

"Because I can."

For a second, Khae didn't answer.

Then she smiled too.

Yesterday had been wonderful, but it had also been difficult.

They had to remember who was around.

They had to be careful.

Today was different.

Today, surrounded by people who already knew and accepted them, they could simply be themselves.

Their next stop was Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.

The atmosphere became quieter as they entered.

The girls took their time walking around, appreciating the peacefulness after the busy streets outside.

Khae noticed Aiah looking at the candles.

"Do you want to light one?"

Aiah nodded.

Together, they walked over.

Khae didn't ask what Aiah wished for.

Some things were meant to stay private.

But when they walked back to the group, Aiah slipped her hand into Khae's again.

"Thank you."

Khae looked at her.