Love in the Time of Corona

9

I don't even know how to start. I mean, never in my mind did this thought linger 'til now... and it sucks. It drains my whole being.


Caden must've noticed that I have spaced out. Though his right hand, masculine as heck, was holding the clutch, he managed to hold mine for some moments.


"Hey. You still good?" He took my left hand and planted a soft on it. I can feel my cheeks burn up a little, but I still can't stop thinking about... that.


"Yeah, of course." I managed to smile. "Where we off to, by the way?"


He just winked. Hopefully, it's not in a classical music orchestra or some theatrical play... I don't want to offend the artists who give their all when they perform but I just can't stand it. I'm easily bored. I'd rather mess up my room and clean it up within an hour.

Couple miles later, I felt that he parked the car and his lips on my forehead. My lips automatically formed into a curve. How can I ever ask for more when I have him? As I opened my eyes, I see a wide midnight-blue lake in front of an old looking bench.


"I've been wanting to bring you here... and I thought, this would be the best time."


"What's so special about the day before my departure?" I pouted.


"Nothing much, really. Guess, it just occurred to me that it's now or never." I just laughed and held hands with him.








I'd love to feel him, as long as I can...




As long as I still can.



--


As we walked around the lake, I saw kids playing around, riding their bicycles, ans doing stuff that kids enjoy. I looked at him. He is my definition of perfection. Long lashes, brown eyes that I'd love to get lost in, pinkish lips, and of course, Caden, himself. I swear, I could stare at him the whole day and I won't get tired of it. I feel embarrassed when he stared back at me as I fantasized on his features.


I looked away. "So,what's so special with this place?"


He closed his eyes as we walked. He looked like he's reliving the memories of his childhood. He looks so adorable.


"Mom would usually bring me here." Eyes closed. I know what that means. He's too pained to even care about anyone... and I understand that.


I gently squeezed his hands, sending him reassurance through the contact. He smiled as he slowly opened his eyes.

"Wanna go grab some waffles?" He asked. I nodded. Hand in hand, we ran towards the stall. I got some blueberry cheese waffle, while he had chocolate hazelnut.


We eventually felt tired standing up for a long time so we looked for an empty bench and luckily, we found one.








Side by side, we sat in silence and savored the freshly cooked waffles in our hands.





Few bites and we've finished our food. He smoothly placed his arms above my opposite shoulder(hope you get what I mean) and I, feeling safe, settled in.






No one breaks the silence at first but then he suddenly says, "I love you, Sien."


I can feel my eyes tearing up as I hear those words, the words that I'm too scared to say.





There I was, cowardly stays silent, not knowing what to do next.