I’ve been going back and forth about this, but I think it’s only right to say it clearly.
My novella HEARD AFTER GOODBYE will not be entering the 3rd round of the Open Novella Contest on Wattpad, even though it qualified.
This wasn’t an easy decision.
Lately, my health hasn’t been at its best. I’ve been dealing with sinus headaches almost every morning and evening, and it’s been exhausting. I need to step back, rest, limit my screen time, and just allow my body to recover.
On top of that, I’m currently writing Chapter 8 out of 12. With the Round 3 deadline coming at the end of April, I know I won’t be able to finish it in time. And honestly, I don’t want to rush it. Ayokong minamadali ang isang nobela. Nasisira kasi nito ang kalidad kapag hinahabol ko ang deadline. I want to write this story the way it deserves to be written—slowly, intentionally, and with heart.
Still, I’m grateful. "Heard After Goodbye" became an Ambassador’s Pick twice, and that already means so much to me. Maliit man, pero achievement ko na ‘yon as a person who loves to write stories.
And then there’s real life (my work, I mean). I’ll be pulling out from Koronadal soon, and I still don’t know where I’ll be assigned next month. It’s going to be a busy and uncertain transition.
But let me be clear. This is not the end of this story.
I will continue writing "Heard After Goodbye". Hindi ako titigil. I’ll just take my time, breathe, and let the story unfold the way it’s meant to.
Thank you for understanding. I'll be taking the rest I need. ✨