Better Paradise

Chapter 42

CAMILE

As I made my way through the long, winding corridor of the hospital, a rush of memories flooded my mind, tugging at my heartstrings. There was one image, in particular, that refused to fade away, no matter how much I tried to push it aside.

Feeling the weight of these memories, I sought solace in one of the chairs scattered around the hospital. I sank into the seat, allowing myself a moment of respite.

And then, the flashback came rushing back, transporting me to a time when everything felt so different, so alive.

"What brings us to this place, Nikko?" I asked, my voice filled with curiosity and a hint of excitement. Nikko, the man I cherished above all others, stood by my side, wearing a warm smile.

"I wanted to show you something, Camile. This place holds a significant historical value—it's the sacred ground of the Bonifacio generations," he responded, his voice tinged with pride and admiration for the site.

"Ah, a place of historical importance," I mused, a sense of wonderment washing over me. Being new to the Philippines, I had yet to uncover the deep-rooted stories behind its iconic landmarks.

As we strolled alongside the sparkling river nearby, its waters dancing under the warm embrace of the sun, Nikko beckoned me closer to the riverbank. Intrigued, I followed, eager to unveil the secrets this place held.

"What is this place, Nikko?" I inquired, unable to contain my curiosity. His response was a mischievous smile that hinted at an unspoken surprise.

"Welcome to Ilog Paraiso, Camile. I brought you here because I want you to be the last woman I'll ever love," he declared, his lips inching closer to my forehead as if to seal his words with a tender kiss. "I may not be perfect, but I promise to fight for you until the very end," he whispered, his voice filled with unwavering determination.

I chuckled, unable to resist the playful banter that often defined our relationship. "Ah, the drama of it all," I teased, my laughter echoing in the air. With a gentle touch, Nikko adjusted my glasses, his affectionate gaze melting my heart.

"Camile, I love you for who you are, without any reservations. No matter what trials we may face, you will forever be my sanctuary, my better paradise. Amidst the chaos of life, you bring me peace," he confessed, his words resonating deep within my soul.

Overwhelmed by his love, tears welled up in my eyes, threatening to spill over. I tried to hold them back, but they flowed freely, reflecting the depth of my emotions.

To my astonishment, Nikko's face turned pale, and he collapsed onto the soft grass beneath us. Panic seized me, and a scream escaped my lips, shattering the tranquility of the surroundings.

"N-Nikko," I stammered, rushing to his side, desperation etched on my face. I cradled his cheeks in my trembling hands, tears streaming down my face like a cascade.

"Please don't cry, Camile. My time has come," he struggled to utter, his voice barely a whisper against the backdrop of my overwhelming grief.

My heart shattered into a million pieces, unable to fathom the cruel reality unfolding before my eyes. "What are you saying?" I pleaded, my voice trembling with disbelief and anguish. "What is happening, Nikko? I can't bear this pain," I choked on my words, the weight of my sorrow threatening to consume me.

With every ounce of strength left within him, Nikko tried to hold my tear-stained face in his hands.

"This is my last wish, my final request to my parents—to bring you here, to this sacred place, so it can witness our last moments together," he managed to say, each word a struggle.