Never Descending

Kabanata 3

Hoe

Wala na kong sinayang na oras. Naglakad na rin ako papasok sa gym dala ang maliit na duffel bag. Binati ko ang nasa reception pati na si Rian na nakasalubong kong palabas mula sa changing room.

I headed straight towards the locker area to settle my things first. Nang matapos ayusin ang mga gamit ay hindi na rin ako nagtagal at umalis na roon. I was even stretching my arms while walking on my way.

My steps slowed down when I saw the familiar guy coming out of the men's locker room which is the door next to where I got from. He was pretty preoccupied while wearing something on his hand as he walk.

My limbs moved on instinct as if they have a mind of their own. The next thing I knew, I was already walking beside him. I hate that I still don't know his name by now. I better use my smooth communicability to know him already.

Ramdam ko ang bahagyang pagbagal din ng mga hakbang niya. Probably sensing my strange presence.

I casually cleared my throat.

"So... you're also a regular here?" I asked in a laid-back tone.

I'm used to starting small talks and being casual with people but I've never felt this edgy while waiting for a response. I suddenly felt worried that he might think I'm being too intrusive or something.  I mean.. what if he doesn't answer? Especially now when he actually looks like the kind who can just ignore anyone without even blinking.

I've always been the confident type so I don't  know where this subtle agitation is coming from. Hindi ko inalis ang pagkaka-baling sa kanya habang nag-aabang ng sagot. Bahagyang bumagal ang paggalaw ng kamay niya habang may ipinupulupot doon.

He didn't bother throwing me a glance so I almost hitched my breath when he opened his mouth.

"Yes,"

My palm automatically flew on my arm to lightly brush away the shivers that his deep voice gave me. He barely uttered a word yet its effect was emulsifying. I almost sighed in relief as I realized that he answered. He actually answered.

I tried to hide the small smile as I nodded.

"Didn't see you the past few days though.." I meaningfully muttered before taking a glimpse of him. "Busy with something?" I inquired.

My brow raised a bit as I waited for him to fill up my curiosity.

He simply gave off a single nod before his lips parted.

"Work," he said.

I puckered my lips at his short replies. He sounds so furtive and reserved. I want to know more. Nevertheless, I can't deny the fact that I'm glad cause he's accommodating my snooping ass. At least, he's pretty civil. He isn't unnecessarily snob or something.