Richard's Standard

Chapter 10 - Perfectionist No More ( First Kiss)

When I woke up, Dona's face lingered in my mind, a vivid memory from our parting the night before. She looked truly beautiful without any makeup, her natural charm shining through. Her smile was innocent, captivating in a way that felt almost magical. I found myself struck by her authenticity.

I shook my head, trying to dismiss the thought. Am I really falling for her already?

Glancing at Dad's framed photo on the wall, I couldn't help but wonder aloud, "You think I love her?"

It felt strange to ask, but somehow, I hoped that maybe, just maybe, he could offer some guidance on this unexpected journey of my heart.

I suddenly remembered that I needed to move Dad's frame to Mom's office. Carefully, I placed it in my bag. Before getting up from bed, I closed my eyes and offered a prayer. It was only my second time talking to God, but it felt comforting, almost like a gentle embrace.

When I made my way downstairs, I noticed that Mom wasn't around, but breakfast was already set on the table—warm and inviting. The aroma filled the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation. Today, for some reason, I didn't feel like using my motorbike. Maybe it was the heaviness in my heart or just a need for simplicity. So, I decided to take a tricycle instead, embracing the slower pace of life.

As I arrived at school, I handed the driver a fifty-peso bill. He returned my change, and my left hand instinctively accepted it. A wave of surprise washed over me. Did I really just take money from someone's hand?

Am I truly a changed man now? Is this all because of Dona's natural influence on me?

While walking down the hallway, I found myself rehearsing the Bisaya phrases I wanted to say to her. Each word felt like a small step toward bridging the gap between us. I couldn't help but smile, excitement bubbling within me at the thought of seeing her again.

But then, the leche flan girl approached me, her laughter ringing out. "Is it true?" she taunted.

I glanced at her but chose to ignore her, continuing my stride down the hallway.

She didn't take the hint and followed closely. "What makes you like that girl? She's nothing special."

I kept my focus ahead, refusing to engage, but she suddenly grabbed my arm. "No one dares to ignore me."

I quickly pushed her hand away, my irritation flaring. "Just mind your bakery shop. Dona won't be working there anymore."

Her laughter echoed again, a sharp sound that grated on my nerves. "Oh, really? She still has debts to pay."

"How much? I'll pay for it," I said firmly, my resolve strengthening. I was determined to make Dona stop working for that leche flan girl once and for all.

The leche flan girl looked taken aback, her eyes widening in disbelief. "Have you gone crazy?"

"I haven't. I'm just being a friend," I replied, my tone unwavering.

She shook her head, a smirk playing on her lips. "She really did fool you."

I chose not to respond to her taunts and turned away, intent on finding Dona. Just then, I unexpectedly bumped into her.

She was smiling at me, and in that moment, Dona looked incredibly radiant. It was easy to see her beauty, even more so now. She had shared the scars of her life with me, revealing her struggles and hardships, but instead of seeing flaws, all I could see was strength. I felt a deep desire to help her achieve her dreams, to support her in any way I could. Her resilience inspired me, and I was determined to be there for her, to lift her up as she pursued a brighter future.