When The River Meets The Sea

Epilogue

"Why?"

Tora's bruised hands held her small waist, not letting go. The man buried his face on the girl's neck. Carmela wanted to push him but her hands moved on their own. Instead, he hugged the man back.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry." Carmela repeatedly apologized.

Tora saw the girl's tears and immediately wipe it off. His thumb gently brushed the girl's face. His dark eyes stared at the girl's captivating eyes, down to her cute nose, and down to her thin luscious lips. His hand held the girl's chin and leaned towards her.

Carmela felt the soft lips on hers. It was their first kiss and well....last.

A gunshot broke the peaceful atmosphere. Behind the coconut trees, Tay Fusa stood there with Antonio's body, filled with blood, laying on the shore. Tay Fusa grabbed the gun and walked towards the two. Tora immediately sensed the blood lust coming from his master.

"You became weak."

"Too soft."

"And it's all because of you."

Tay Fusa aimed the gun at Carmela. Her whole body froze as the old man fired the gun. Tora was quick enough to grab the girl's arm, preventing her from getting shot.

They ran through the coconut trees and went to the other side of the shore near the port. Tora placed her behind a small sampan and grabbed some things to cover her. He then stood up and grabbed a sword. Carmela knew what he was doing.

"No!" Carmela said as she grabbed Tora's arms. Her hands were shaking and fear was evident on her face. Tora held her hand and gave her a peck on the forehead.

"I'll come back."

"You said that before and it was a lie!"

"Hmm. I'll come back. I promise."

"Now, wait for me. Okay?"

Carmela could only cry as Tora let her go. Her tears never stopped. As the man's physique gradually became smaller, she felt a cold drop on her skin.

The rain poured slowly at first but it became worse. Carmela just stood there, not flinching. The thunder roared, lightning struck, and darkness suddenly engulfed her.

The moment she woke up, she was already back. Her memories were hazy so Carmela thought it was only a crazy thing.

Carla listened to the girl's story and felt guilty. The pain she experienced was lighter than mine but it's still pain. Carla stared at the girl before her and recalled Carmela's story.

"Did Tora die?"

"I don't know. I passed out before he could even come back... if he ever did."

"You wanna check?"

"What?!" Carmela was so shocked by how casual Carla asked her that.

"What? It's a bit risky but----"

"IT IS!" Carla let out a chuckle.

"Besides, you wanna see him again right?"

Carmela became silent. Of course, she wanted to see him again. But, it's too dangerous. If the past changed again.....

Carla suddenly stood up and faced her with a serious expression.

"All I need is one word and I'll take you back." The girl's almond eyes stared at the face before her. After a few minutes, she lifted her gaze. Carla was surprised to see the girl's eyes. It was filled with determination. With a shaky breath a pounding heart, Carmela opened her mouth and answered.

End.