What if the saints of old walked among us today-would we honor their triumphs, or whisper about their secrets?
Zarinna knows the weight of hidden truths. Once devoted, now marked by choices she cannot undo, she carries shame like a shadow she cannot...
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SCORCHING HEAT welcomed David's body as he stepped down from the bus, the warm breeze and the midday sun competing for dominance against his skin. He lifted his arms, stretching his bones with relief. After five long hours on the road, they had finally arrived in Tabuk—the capital city of Kalinga. The air here was different: the kind of heat that clung to the skin, carrying with it the scent of dust, river stones, and distant mountains.
He turned to watch as his companions climbed down after him.
"Ah, finally!" Pastor Nestor exclaimed. "Come on everyone, let's go. The jeep going to Batong Buhay is going to depart any minute."
They began to move, following him across the busy road. Tricycles zipped by, jeepneys rumbled past, vendors called from shaded stalls, and conversations floated like constant background music in the streets.
David glanced at his watch.
7:48 AM.
He turned to Pastor Nestor. "Did you text the jeepney driver for confirmation, Pastor?"
"Yes, David," the older man replied, also checking his watch. "He said it's already half-full. They're waiting for us."
David quickened his pace, signaling for the others to follow. Jake and the three ladies trailed behind, each visibly affected by the heat. Amusement tugged at him when he noticed Zarinna catching her breath, her cheeks flushed pink under the harsh sun.
"Come on, guys," he called out, a smile forming. "We need to hurry. The jeepney's waiting."
They followed, and soon enough, they reached the terminal. David scanned the vehicle and felt relieved to see the jeepney's roof space still unoccupied.
"Ay dakayu dayta?" the driver asked—Are you the ones who reserved it?
"Wen," David confirmed.
The driver turned to notify the passengers, announcing the departure. The group began placing their bags on the top rack.
"Aren't you riding with us up there?" David asked Lauren.
She laughed. "Four hours under the scorching sun? I think I'll pass. There's an extra seat inside. I'll take that."
Pastor Nestor had already climbed up, helping Gina up with him. David turned to find Zarinna staring at the height of the jeepney's side with visible apprehension. She had taken jeepneys all her life—just never this way.
David suppressed a soft chuckle.
"The jeep's going to leave without you if you just stare at it like that," he teased, gripping the rail. "Come on, Zarinna. Let's go."
Zarinna released a shaky breath and reached for the rail.
"Place your foot there," David instructed gently, pointing to a ridge. "Then the other one there."
