3. The start

As I stand in front of the mirror, smoothing out my dress for what feels like the hundredth time, I can barely contain the butterflies in my stomach. I've been looking forward to this day all week, but now that it's finally here, I'm a nervous wreck. I take a deep breath and try to remind myself that it's just a date.

One evening, a few hours, and it will all be over. But the thought doesn't bring me much comfort. I glance at the screen and see a text from Jarred, my date: "Hey, just wanted to let you know I'm running a few minutes late. See you soon!"

This is it, our official first date. I still remember our last conversation vividly. After discovering the heartfelt letters hidden within the paper cherry blossoms he gave me, I asked him to meet me at Khai's cafe. As he arrived, he greeted me with a warm

"Hey!" I gestured to the chair across from me, and he flashed me an assuring smile before taking a seat.

"I never expected you to contact me," he said, his eyes sparkling with surprise. I felt a pang of guilt wash over me, regretting not knowing about the secret messages within the cherry blossoms sooner.

"I only just found out that there were notes written inside," I admitted, my gaze drifting downward in embarrassment. I couldn't bear to look him straight in the eye.

"I'm sorry," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I didn't think you wouldn't know about the messages." I finally worked up the courage to meet his gaze, and my heart skipped a beat. His eyes were the most captivating I'd ever seen - piercing, yet gentle.

"It's okay," I stammered, trying to composed myself. "Umm, why did you give me those cherry blossoms?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.He paused, a soft blush rising to his cheeks.

The cherry blossom holds a significant but painful place in my life, reminding me of a past I'd rather forget and memories I've tried to bury.

"Actually, I've been admiring you from afar," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. I was taken aback, my mind reeling from the sudden revelation. I sat there, frozen, unsure of how to respond.

"Since when?" I finally managed to ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Since first year," he replied, his eyes locked on mine. I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. First year? That was a lifetime ago!

"It was our school intramurals," he continued, a soft smile spreading across his face. "You and your friend came to the photo booth, and I was the photographer. Your smile and laughter caught my attention, and...I've been admiring you ever since." I was stunned. Speechless.

I remembered that day vividly - the excitement, the laughter, the thrill of experiencing my first college intramurals. We had visited every booth, including the photo booth, but I had never paid much attention to the photographer. And yet, here he was, telling me that he'd been secretly admiring me for years.But why had he never made a move? Why had he kept his feelings hidden for so long?

"If you really liked me that long," I asked, my voice filled with wonder, "why didn't you ever try to get close to me?"He looked down, his eyes avoiding mine.

"I was insecure," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I assumed I wasn't your type, that you wouldn't like me. So I didn't make any moves."My heart went out to him. I could sense the vulnerability behind his words.

"Until my friend encouraged me," he continued, his eyes locking on mine once more. "That's why I started leaving cherry blossoms in your locker. But you never got them."

I felt like I'd been hit by a tidal wave. Cherry blossoms in my locker? I had no idea! My mind was reeling, trying to process this newfound information. My heart was racing, and I could feel my pulse pounding in my ears.

"I don't know what say."

My heart skipped a beat as he took my hand, his touch sending shivers down my spine. The spark I felt was undeniable, and I couldn't help but wonder if this was the start of something special.

"You don't have to say anything," he said, his gentle smile putting me at ease. I felt overwhelmed, but in a good way. His eyes, soft and full of adoration, held mine, and I couldn't look away.

"Now that I've finally admitted my feelings for you," he continued, his voice filled with emotion, "let me take you out on a date. Give me a chance to show you how genuine my feelings are."

My mind racing, I tried to process everything. A date? With him? I couldn't deny the excitement and curiosity that had taken over. What would it be like to go on a date with someone who had secretly admired me for so long?I took a deep breath, my heart pounding in anticipation.

"We will go out on a date...," I said finally, my voice barely above a whisper. His face lit up with a radiant smile, and I knew that this was just the beginning of something special.

As I stepped into Khai's cafe, memories of his heartfelt confession flooded my mind, and I couldn't help but smile. It was surreal to think that he had admired me from afar for so long, and now, he had finally gathered the courage to reveal his true feelings.

Our daily chats had become a highlight of my day. He would share stories, thoughts, and laughter with me, and I found myself looking forward to every message. The random memes, pictures, and videos he sent me made my heart skip a beat, especially the one where he played the guitar and sang a song dedicated to me.I felt like I was walking on clouds, my feet barely touching the ground.

The thought of him thinking of me, admiring me, and now, pursuing me, was overwhelming, yet exhilarating.As I waited for him to arrive, I couldn't help but wonder what the future held for us. Would we take a chance on each other? Would our connection grow stronger? The possibilities swirled in my mind, making my heart flutter with anticipation

I typed out a simple message, "Nandito na ko." and sent it to him.

I had deliberately chosen the spot by the window, the same one where we had our second interaction. It was where he had given me the second cherry blossom, and more importantly, where he had confessed his feelings to me. This spot had become special, a place imbued with memories and emotions. It had become "our spot," a place where our connection had grown stronger.

As I sat there, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me, remembering the way he had looked at me, the way he had smiled, and the way he had spoken from his heart. I glanced out the window, watching as people walked by, going about their daily lives. My mind, however, was focused on the door, waiting for him to arrive, waiting for our next moment together.

I was sipping my coffee and fidgeting with the sleeve, I find myself constantly glancing at the entrance of the cafe. My eyes scan the crowded room, but my focus is solely on the door, waiting for him to walk through it.

My heart skips a beat every time someone enters, only to sink slightly when it's not him. I can feel my palms growing slightly sweaty, a mix of nerves and excitement.I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself down, but my mind is racing with thoughts of what's to come.

What will we talk about? Will it be awkward? Will there be a spark?

As I wait, I find myself replaying our previous conversations in my head, remembering the way he made me laugh, the way he listened to me, and the way he confessed his feelings.The door swings open again, and my heart leaps into my throat. This time, my eyes meet his, and I feel a rush of electricity run through my veins. He smiles, and I smile back, my nerves melting away as he makes his way towards me

As he approached, his curious gaze sparkled like diamonds, asking, "Kanina ka pa?"

I shook my head, and his face relaxed, like a sunset easing into twilight. His chiseled features were accentuated by his sleeked-back hair and the casual navy blue polo that hugged his broad shoulders. The white trousers completed the picture of effortless elegance, making my heart skip a beat.

I smiled, trying to play it cool, despite the butterflies performing acrobatics in my stomach. "I just arrived," I said, attempting nonchalance.

His eyes, however, betrayed a hint of guilt, like a stormy sky before a downpour. "I'm very sorry for being late on our first date," he said, his voice dripping with sincerity.

I offered a gentle smile, trying to calm the storm. "It's okay, I understand." But he insisted, his determination burning brighter than a wildfire.

"No, first dates are important for women. I am really sorry, babawi ako sa 'yo"

As he explained the reason for his tardiness - his sister's tantrum - my heart swelled with admiration for his patience and devotion. His sister's special needs only highlighted his remarkable character, like a masterpiece unveiled.

I reassured him once more, and his face lit up with a warm smile. "Let me take our order," he said, his voice low and smooth, as he smiled and turned to walk towards the counter.

I nodded, my eyes following him as he moved with effortless confidence, his stride fluid and purposeful.

As he walked, the room seemed to fade into the background, and all that was left was him. His presence was like a magnet, drawing everyone's attention, making them turn and look. The way he carried himself, with his head held high and his shoulders back, exuded an aura of quiet self-assurance.

I watched, mesmerized, as he approached the counter, his eyes scanning the menu board with a practiced air. The barista, a bright-eyed young woman, looked up and smiled, her face lighting up with recognition.

"Good evening, Sir, what can I get for you?" she asked, her voice friendly and welcoming.He smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and began to order, his voice low and smooth. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, watching him interact with the barista, his confidence and charm on full display. He was like a ray of sunshine, brightening up the entire room with his presence.

As I watched him order, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness. This was our first date, and I had no idea what to expect. But as he turned around and smiled at me, I felt my heart skip a beat.

He walked back to our table, a tray in hand, and set it down in front of us. "I got us a couple of lattes," he said, his eyes sparkling with warmth.

"I hope that's okay with you."I nodded, feeling a little shy, and reached for my cup. As our hands touched, I felt a jolt of electricity run through my body. It was like the entire room had melted away, and all that was left was the two of us.

We sat there for a moment, sipping our lattes and making small talk. He asked me about my day, and I told him about my studies and my hobbies. He listened intently, his eyes never leaving mine, and I felt like I was the only person in the world.

"How was your day?" he asked, his eyes locked on mine with genuine interest.I sighed, feeling a sense of relief at being able to share my struggles with someone.

"It was tough," I admitted. "I've been struggling with one of my subjects, and it's been frustrating me."He nodded sympathetically, his expression encouraging me to continue.

"What our problem?" he asked.

"Hindi ko kasi ma gets 'tong isa naming subject." I said, feeling a sense of exasperation.

"I've been studying for hours, pero nahihirapan talaga ako."He listened attentively, his eyes never leaving mine.

"I'm sure you'll get it eventually," he said. "Magalit and matalino ka."

I smiled, feeling a sense of appreciation for his support. "Thanks, sana," I said.

He asked me more questions about my studies, and I found myself opening up to him in ways I never thought possible. He listened with such intensity, such focus, that I felt like I was the only person in the world.

As we talked, I mentioned my hobbies, and his eyes lit up with interest. "I've always wanted to learn how to paint," he said. "Baka pwede mo 'kong turuan?"I laughed, feeling a sense of excitement at the prospect.

"I'd love to," I said. As we continued to talk, I felt a sense of connection with him that I couldn't ignore. It was as if we had known each other for years, not just minutes. And I knew, in that moment, that I wanted to spend more time with him

As we sipped our coffee, the conversation flowed effortlessly, like a gentle stream meandering through the countryside. One moment, we were discussing our favorite books, and the next, we were sharing stories about our childhood pets. The topics shifted and morphed, but the conversation never faltered. We talked about everything and nothing, our words intertwining like the threads of a rich tapestry.

I asked him, "Bakit kayo ng hiwalay ng ex?" He took a deep breath before responding,

"She cheated on me with my best friend." I nodded sympathetically, feeling sorry for him. He added, "That's why I hate cheaters."

"Ikaw?" He then asked me about my past relationships.

I replied, "I don't have an ex. Puro flings lang."

He looked surprised, asking, "Oww, hindi kayo nagka progress?"

I explained, "Hindi kami nagka progress kasi hindi sila consistent. Alam mo 'yun, sa una lang okay, pagtatagal lumalabas na 'yung tinatago nilang ugali."

We continued talking, sharing stories and laughter. Our conversation flowed effortlessly, and we never had a dull moment.

"I have to say, I love this coffee shop," he said, sipping his latte. "Na aalala ko childhood ko."

"Really?" I replied, curious. "Like what?"

"Small town in the province," he said. "I grew up there, surrounded by rice fields and mountains."

"That sounds beautiful," I said, imagining the scenery. "I grew up in the city, but my grandparents had a farm in the countryside. I used to spend summers there."

"Ah, nice!" he exclaimed. "I loved spending summers in the province too. We'd spend hours exploring the woods, climbing trees, and swimming in the river."

I laughed. "That sounds like so much fun! I was more of a bookworm, but I loved helping my grandparents with the farm. We'd plant vegetables, harvest fruits, and take care of the animals."

He smiled. "I can imagine you as a little girl, surrounded by animals and plants. You must have loved it."

"I did," I said, feeling a wave of nostalgia. "Those were some of the best summers of my life. How about you? What's your favorite childhood memory?"

He thought for a moment, a faraway look in his eyes. "I think it was when my siblings and I would put on little shows for our parents. We'd sing, dance, and tell jokes. It was always so much fun."

I grinned. "That sounds hilarious! I can imagine you as a little boy, hamming it up on stage."

He chuckled. "Yeah, I was quite the performer. But it was always special because it was something we did together as a family."As we talked, I felt like I was getting a glimpse into his childhood, and it was sweet and endearing. I loved hearing about his family and his memories, and I felt like I was connecting with him on a deeper level.

I found myself laughing and smiling, feeling more and more at ease with each passing minute. He was easy to talk to, with a quick wit and a infectious enthusiasm. As the hours slipped by, the coffee shop began to empty, but we didn't notice.

We were too caught up in our conversation, too busy exploring the twists and turns of each other's minds. At one point, I glanced at my watch, surprised to see that we'd been talking for over two hours. But he just smiled and said, "Time flies when you're having fun, right?"

And I couldn't help but agree. The time we spent together was like a bubble, a fragile, fleeting thing that I didn't want to pop. I wanted to stay suspended in this moment, forever lost in the gentle flow of our conversation.

As we bid our goodbyes, I felt a pang of sadness, like I was leaving a piece of myself behind. But he offered me a ride, and I accepted, eager to prolong our time together.

As he opened the door of his car for me, I felt a thrill of excitement. I slid into the passenger seat, feeling like I was slipping into a warm hug. He got in behind the wheel, and we set off into the evening, the city lights twinkling like diamonds around us.

As we drove, he put on some music, and I was surprised to hear Avril Lavigne's distinctive voice belting out one of her hits. "You're into Avril Lavigne?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah, you?" he replied, his eyes fixed on the road ahead.

"Yeah, 'When You're Gone' is my favorite," I said, feeling a wave of nostalgia wash over me. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

"I don't really have favorite songs, I just love listening to music," he said. I was taken aback.

"Really? I've never met anyone who doesn't have a favorite song," I said, laughing.

He chuckled. "I guess I'm just weird that way." I grinned.

"I think it's kind of cool, actually."

As we drove, I started telling him about how I first heard Avril Lavigne's song.

"You know, I first heard 'When You're Gone' on YouTube, in a computer shop," I said, a faraway look in my eyes.

He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? What were you doing in a computer shop?" I laughed.

"I was addicted to The Sims 3, and I used to spend hours playing it in the computer shop. There was this one video on YouTube, a backstory for one of the characters, Agnes Crumplebottom, and 'When You're Gone' was the soundtrack."

He looked at me, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Focus on the road," I teased, laughing.

He grinned, turning his attention back to the road. "I'm trying, but you're just too interesting," he said, his voice low and smooth. I felt a flutter in my chest, but I just smiled, feeling happy and carefree. As we drove through the city, the music playing and the lights twinkling around us, I felt like I was exactly where I was meant to be.

As the clock struck 10:00, we pulled up to the lobby of our condo. Jarred walked me to the entrance, his eyes shining with warmth. "Thank you for today, Jarred," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

He smiled, his fingers grazing the top of my hair in a gentle caress. "I should be the one saying thank you, Clyde. For giving me a chance."

My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze, feeling like I was drowning in the depths of his eyes.I couldn't help but smile, my cheeks flushing with happiness. "Una na 'ko," I said, taking a step back towards the elevator.

Jarred smiled and nodded, his eyes never leaving mine.As I walked backward, I waved goodbye, my heart still racing from the excitement of the day. "Clyde!" Jarred called out suddenly, his voice low and husky. I turned back to him, my eyes locking onto his.

"You are so beautiful," he said, his words sending shivers down my spine. "Have a goodnight."I floated into the elevator, my heart still reeling from the compliment.

As I lay in bed an hour later, I couldn't shake off the feeling of euphoria. I stared at the ceiling, reliving every moment of our date. It was the best date I'd ever had, and Jarred's sudden compliment had left me breathless.

I couldn't help but wonder if this was the start of something special. Something that would fulfill my childhood dreams and make my heart skip a beat. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, my heart filled with hope and excitement for what the future held.

This was the start. Out start.