This is How You Lost Me (To Be Revised)

Fifth

Matching Bracelets. The beach was just near our town. We made up several excuses for why we wanted to go there, but we both knew the real reason was that we needed to breathe.

We needed to get away from our hectic schedules, heavy workloads from school, you being reprimanded by your coach, and me being scolded by my dad.

We both knew that if we don't get away even for a day, the stress will eventually take a toll on us.

And I was right. It did on our relationship. We fought the day before this instant escapade we half-planned. Still, we decided to go to pursue it. We knew that it's just the two of us that will bring solace to each other in the end.

You picked me up. We were quiet the whole drive. Only the music playing and the engine of your car filled the atmosphere. But it didn't make me uncomfortable or uneasy in any way. Maybe this is what we needed. Silence. Even just for a short time.

We were just chilling on the beach. I moved closer to the sea so that I can feel the water, and you did the same. You sat beside me. I leaned onto you, and your hands found its way on my shoulders. We both stretched our legs, waiting for the waves to hit our feet.

By that time, I knew we were already okay even though we were still in silent treatment mode. I don't know how. I just knew it. I know you did too. We don't say sorry. I guess it's just our thing.

Soon after, you spoke. "Drinks?" You asked, and I nodded.

We stood up and picked our things. We walked where the stores were to get something to quench our thirst. We also opted to get some food. From a short distance, something caught my eye. I immediately went there, leaving you behind still ordering your meal.

Not long after, you were beside me eating your taco.

"What are you looking at?" You asked as you put it closer to my mouth, urging me to take a bite, and I did.

I pointed at the stones that caught my eye.

"You want one?" You questioned. You were about to get your wallet.

"No, I just wanted to take a closer look," I said and asked permission to go to another store. Before you could say something, I already walked away.

I was looking at some stuff, trying on some hats. I glanced around, and I didn't see you, so I was about to text where you were but decided not to. Maybe you needed time to stroll around by yourself.

After a while, I was surprised seeing you standing by the side, waiting for me while sipping your drink. I didn't even notice you arriving.

"You done?" I asked. You nodded, and as soon as I got closer, you took my hand and put the bracelet on it.

You showed me your hand, and you were wearing one too. It was matching, and it has the small version of the stone I was eyeing a while ago as the centerpiece.

I was about to tell you off for spending money for me again, but you were quick to read my mind and defend yourself.

"It caught my eye too." You said. "I can't help but buy it. The vendor was too good at persuading me." Then you laughed. Praise heavens for that gorgeous laugh of yours.

"The old lady told me these stones are associated with unconditional love. It also serves as a sign of the promise of not breaking up."

"You believed her?" I asked, amused.

"Kind of." You giggled. Cute. No wait, hot. No, okay, final. Cute.

Also, I imagined both of us wearing it..." You trailed off. "I thought it would look cute." You said, looking down, embarrassed.

I chuckled and pinched your cheeks.

"We're not gonna split up," I stated.

"We won't." You answered like it was a question.

"I'm not gonna let you go."

"Same here."

"You're stuck with me for the rest of your life." I jokingly said.

You chuckled and even did a hand salute. "Yes, ma'am."

"We're not going to leave each other."

For a split second, I thought I saw you smiling sadly and looking very apologetic. Maybe my eyes were just playing tricks.

"No matter how tough it gets, okay?" I said then hugged you shrugging the weird feeling.

"No matter how tough it gets." You repeated and kissed the top of my head.

***

I should have known back then that I didn't imagine the expression on your face.