Aki
I watched as the moonlight slowly took human form, revealing a figure with hair, black as night, one eye looking straight at me with an impish gaze and the other emitting a soft light, like the one that can be seen in the night sky.
"Mayari."
She ran and hugged me tightly. "Apolaki... I missed you, Brother."
"I missed you, too."
"More than 300 Earthly years is too long. Come home."
I nodded. "During our next eclipse, I will head back with you."
"Good. You need rest," she stared into my face. "There is a lightness in you. I see it from where I watch."
"Mayari, I AM the Sun. I am nothing but light."
She hit me lightly. "That is what I mean. You jest... often."
I did not say anything.
"It is this girl? Alexandra?"
Still, I remained silent.
"I hope she chooses you this time."
"Hiraya loved me, Mayari. You know that mortals build their own heaven when they reach the Eternity. Please do not remain angry at her for not including me."
Mayari continued to frown. "You deserve a great love, Apolaki."
"Thank you."
"Does Alexandra feel the same for you?"
I looked away. "I am uncertain. As uncertain as I am that what I feel is the love you speak of."
"But you are fond of her, yes?"
"Yes. And I loathe to see her sad or hurt... more than anyone mortal or otherwise that I have ever met."
Mayari turned to me and smiled. "I think you are more certain than you choose to let on."
"Maybe I am a Denial King."
She frowned. "I have not heard of that kingdom. Where is that land?"
"In showbiz."
Then, I burst out laughing.
Mayari gave me a strange look, as if she had discovered a new three-headed bakunawa (a gigantic sea serpent).
"Alexandra would have laughed," I said, defensively.
She joined my laughter only because she found me silly. "I miss you, Brother."
I gazed at her fondly.
"Until the next eclipse."
I nodded. "Until the next eclipse."
We gazed at the night sky and there seemed to be more stars than usual. I smiled, "Tala is doing a spectacular job tonight."
"She is."
*
Lexi
"Hi, Aki!!!"
My two friends greeted him as we all piled into my vehicle.
"Good evening, ladies."
"Lexi, isama mo na lang si Aki sa party para naman may gwapo tayong escort!" Rica suggested.
