Dying Embers

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Thirteen: Wala Kang Kawala

I stared at my reflection in the mirror for a few seconds, taking a deep breath. I'd just curled the ends of my hair and clipped it back with this crescent moon hairpin, all silver and gold details. It was simple but elegant—just my style. A light layer of makeup and a swipe of lip gloss were all I needed. No heavy makeup for me. I liked it this way, natural and easy.

And if you're wondering about the makeup kit, it was a gift from my mom yesterday. The day before, Clarence had handed me a book from her titled Ways to Get a Boyfriend. I'd just smacked my forehead when I saw it.

I'd never really thought about changing my look before. But now, looking at this different side of me, it felt kind of nice. Fresh, even a bit freeing.

My phone suddenly rang, pulling me from my thoughts. I fished it out of my pouch and checked the screen. Seeing Chance's name pop up, I couldn't help but smile a little as I answered the call.

"Hey," I answered, trying to keep my voice steady.

He chuckled softly. "Hey, I'm already outside, Nieve."

I froze a bit, surprised by the sound of his voice—it was husky, a little different than usual.

Clearing my throat, I replied, "I'll be right there. Just give me a sec."

"Okay. I'll wait."

I quickly hung up, feeling my cheeks heat up. Why did he have to sound so... irresistible?

Taking a deep breath, I gathered myself, making sure everything in my apartment was locked: my room, the windows, and, most importantly, the main door. As I headed down the stairs, my heart pounded so loud it was almost embarrassing. Parang may hangin ang humahaplos sa puso ko at nanlalamig ang buong katawan ko. Hindi ko maintindihan.

As soon as I stepped outside, there he was, leaning against his car, looking effortlessly sharp in his tuxedo. His hair was freshly cut—a high bald fade with a textured crew cut that made him look even more put together. He looked strong, clean, and somehow...even more attractive than usual. I couldn't stop staring, my gaze locked on him like I was seeing him for the first time.

Ni hindi ko na nga namalayan na napatigil na pala ako sa paglalakad dahil sa paninitig sa gwapo niyang mukha. As I glanced up, I caught a glimpse of his playful smile, his lips curving into a teasing grin. "Baby," he said, his tone light and playful, "I know I'm handsome as hell, but can you hurry up, please? We'll be late."

I blinked a few times, trying to shake off my daydream. Even his voice had a magnetic quality that made my heart race. Letting out a deep sigh, I walked over to him, ignoring his teasing smirk. I stopped in front of him, casting a sideways glance his way. "You should be thankful you look good tonight," I said, trying to keep my tone light despite the butterflies in my stomach.

He flashed a playful grin, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "And you know what? You're pretty, too. I almost went blind looking at you."

Nangunot ang noo ko at napangiwi. "So lame."

Natawa lang siya. He rushed over to the passenger door and swung it open for me, flashing a playful grin as he did. With a bit of a dramatic flair, he dipped into a mock bow, like a butler putting on a show. Sumimangot ako. "Chance, you're so lame. Promise."

"Just only for you, Nieve. Only for you." Ngisi niya.

Napailing na lang ako bago sumakay sa kaniyang kotse. Mabilis naman siyang pumunta sa driver's seat, pinaandar ang sasakyan nito at minaneobra ang sasakyan papunta sa school dahil doon gaganapin ang program.