Heartless (Completed)

Chapter 31

Chapter 31

The night was a tapestry of serenity, the kind that whispered promises of laughter and memories yet to be made. The gentle waves of Palawan lapped at the shore, their rhythmic sounds harmonizing with the soft rustle of palm leaves swaying in the breeze. It was on this beautiful night that Art and I, along with Manang Beth, Mang Jaime, and their children, decided to go to the beach. This was a special moment for me, the first time we would all be together, soaking in the joy of shared laughter and stories under the starlit sky—a much-anticipated bonding time.

I stood in front of the mirror, my reflection clad in a simple white tube top that hugged my figure just right, paired with a flowing long skirt that danced around my ankles like a gentle breeze. The sandals I slipped on were nothing extravagant—just plain and comfortable, perfect for a night at the beach. With a heart full of excitement, I descended the stairs, eager to join Art, who was waiting for me in the living room. Meanwhile, Manang Beth and the others had already left for the beach to prepare for the evening festivities, knowing that as the sun dipped below the horizon, tourists would flock to the shore for overnight stays and late-night swims.

"Let's go!" I called out with a giggle, feeling a flutter of anticipation as I approached Art, just a meter away from him.

In that moment, time seemed to slow, much like a scene from a romantic movie. He turned his gaze toward me, his eyes widening slightly as he took in my appearance. Clad in black cargo shorts and a white sleeveless shirt, with a jacket casually draped over his shoulder, he exuded an effortless charm. I couldn't help but think how incredibly handsome he looked.

"Why are you dressed like that?" he asked, his brow furrowing as he scrutinized my outfit from head to toe. I felt a pang of uncertainty, glancing down at my attire to see if I had misjudged it somehow.

I pouted, my voice tinged with hesitation, "Isn't it nice?" I could feel the weight of his gaze, and I desperately hoped I hadn't made a fashion faux pas.

"Damn it! Never mind, let's just go," he replied abruptly, his frustration evident.

A frown creased my forehead, confusion swirling within me at his unexpected mood. Was he in one of those bad moods again? I felt a mix of annoyance and concern as I trailed behind him, his steps quickening without a backward glance. Hmp! I couldn't help but feel a little put out. The evening had started with such promise, yet here I was, trailing after him like an afterthought, determined not to let his mood dampen my excitement.

Art didn't bother to get the car; it was just a short walk away. The streetlights lined our path, casting a soft glow on the ground as we walked in silence, the night air alive with anticipation. However, as we drew nearer to the beach, I understood what Manang Beth had meant; there were indeed a lot of people. In fact, this was the most crowded I had ever seen it. We learned that some celebrities were expected to make an appearance tonight, which explained the small stage set up near the shoreline.

Cars of all shapes and sizes were scattered about, and when the loud hip-hop music blared through the speakers, it seemed as if everyone lost themselves in the rhythm, swaying and dancing like there was no tomorrow.

"Wow!" I exclaimed, my voice barely rising above the music as I watched the revelers lose themselves in joy. Caught up in the atmosphere, I couldn't help but sway my body to the beat, letting the excitement of the night wash over me.

"Over there! That's where Manang Beth is!" Art pointed to the left. I turned my gaze in that direction and immediately spotted them. Mang Jaime was grilling barbecue with practiced ease, while Manang Beth arranged a blanket and various dishes with the help of her children.