Drum Beats

Twenty-fifth Beat

Maine fell silent so Janine took it as a signal to go on.

"When I became a member of band, my parents didn't agree on it," Janine started. "I was the eldest in the family, so it was my duty to take over the business. I didn't want to do anything with the business, so I did what I wanted to do and left home."

Maine listened quietly. It's the first time she's gonna hear about this.

"I didn't talk to them for years. I didn't ask for money or anything from them. I only talked to my brother, who was at the hospital at that time because of a brain tumor," she confessed.

Why didn't you tell me this before?

"I would video call his nurse everyday, so we can still talk and see each other, and sometimes, if he had trouble talking, I would just look at him. I love that kid so much," Janine chuckled while wiping her tears.

Maine took a box of tissue and gave it to Janine. She muttered a thanks.

"When my dad found out about it, he threatened me that he would cut off our connection if I wouldn't go back and take over the business. I had no choice. So I broke up with you."

"Why? I could have helped you. I could've stayed by your side and supported you," Maine said.

"I knew he would send me to the States to learn more about the business. So I thought about it. Instead na pahirapan ka pa sa long distance relationship, might as well let you move on and forget about me."

"So that was your great decision? Leave without a trace?" Maine scoffed. "If only you knew the pain I went through when you suddenly left me."

"I was hurt when I left too," Janine replied. "It was the toughest decision I've made in my entire life."

"Maybe it didn't hurt that much because you still left."

"Maine," Janine went closer to her and held Maine's hands. "I am sorry--so sorry with what I've done to you. If only I could turn back time and not have left you at all."

Maine didn't move. "Your brother..."

"What?"

"Your brother...how is he?"

"He...he died 4 years ago," Janine replied.

"I'm sorry..." Maine pulled her in for a hug.

If you didn't leave me, would we still be together until now?

In the middle of that intimate moment, they heard door creak.

Maine turned and saw Richard standing there.