NOT A COINCIDENCE Belle Isandrina Lacasandile was in a race against time, desperately trying to get back to her university for a dreaded Inorganic Chemistry exam. After running an errand for a friend from another school, she found herself stranded, with no hope of finding a cab. Panic set in as she feared being late and having to take an even more difficult make-up test. Just as her anxiety peaked, the famous UP Maroon basketball star, Juan Gomez de Liaño, appeared and offered her a ride, saving the day. What started as a simple favor soon grew into an unexpected connection-ice cream dates, spontaneous afternoon hangouts, and an undeniable spark that everyone around them noticed. Their chemistry felt like something out of a movie. But Belle believed their meeting was merely a blessing in disguise, a chance occurrence without deeper meaning. As someone who spent countless hours in biochemistry labs, proving theories with hard evidence, she didn't believe in love born from a random encounter. Was it really just a coincidence? Or could it be something more-science, fate, and destiny intertwined?

To Kade Sanford Black, falling for his best friend Xanthie Lorenz, a serious and drop-dead handsome songwriter, was a line he did not want to cross. Knowing all too well the huge possibility of losing the only person who could see through him, he took a step back and put a distance to sustain their friendship - especially since Xanthie is soon to marry. Will Kade be able to hold back his feelings until he sees Xanthie married? Or will he finally have the courage to confess his feelings...and risk losing the only friend he has? WARNING: This story contains depictions of suicide, self-harm, and mental health crises that may be upsetting for some readers. Any depictions of mental health issues herein are not meant as a replacement for medical care. If you or someone you know deals with similar issues, they should seek the help of a medical professional. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know in the U.S. is contemplating suicide, please encourage them to call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. For international resources, please visit: http://www.suicide.org/hotlines/international-suicide-hotline s.html CECELIB | C.C. Cover by Ren Tachibana