The One That Got Away (AnseRa One-shots)

How They Met

It was a beautiful afternoon out in the sugar plantation. Nidora liked to walk around their field after school when the sun wasn't too harsh and she can feel a slight breeze caress her face. Today was different though. The wind was a little stronger than usual so she had to hold on to her wide-brimmed hat as well as her skirt. She kept walking. She treasured these little excursions when all she had for companion was her thoughts; no nosy siblings; no responsibilities; no mama. For just a few minutes a day, she was free. When she came to a grassy area, she took off her shoes. She loved the feel of grass between her toes. She bent to pick up her shoes and forgot to keep a hand on her hat so the wind promptly blew it away. She had to scramble to put on her footwear so she could properly chase it. It was one of her favorites. She hastily turned around and found herself propelled backwards when she hit something solid. Before she could hit the ground, strong hands steadied her. When she was upright, the hands let her go immediately.

"Señorita Nidora, pasensya na po kayo. Hindi ko po sinasadya. Hindi ko po kasi alam na bigla kayong lilingon. Paumanhin po," said a deep voice."

Apparently, she collided with someone's chest. She looked up and saw a tall, tanned young man about her age, his head bowed. He was wearing clothes that told her he was a plantation worker. Her favorite hat was clutched in his hand.

"Ayos lang. Hindi mo naman sinasadya. Kasalanan ko din naman kasi hindi ako tumitingin."

"Pasensya na po talaga, señorita." He bowed some more. "Ito po pala yung sombrero niyo. Nakita ko inilipad ng hangin kaya hinabol ko."

"Salamat ha? Ano nga ulit pangalan mo?"

He looked up. Her heart gave the tiniest of blips when deep, soulful eyes met hers.

"Anselmo po."

"Salamat, Anselmo."

She reached out to take her hat. He passed it to her, his fingers accidentally brushing against hers. She felt a tingling warmth where his skin met hers.

He immediately pulled his hand away.

"Mauna na po ako, señorita. Paumanhin po ulit. Mag ingat po kayo sa paglilibot."

He walked away before she could thank him again. She was about to turn away when he looked back. She smiled and waved at him. He smiled back. It was dazzling.