SOULMATES (PANDEE)

Chapter 14

You’ll learn, as you get older, that rules are made to be broken. Be bold enough to live life on your terms, and never, ever apologize for it. Go against the grain, refuse to conform, take the road less traveled instead of the well-beaten path. Laugh in the face of adversity, and leap before you look. Dance as though EVERYBODY is watching. March to the beat of your own drummer. And stubbornly refuse to fit in.

-Mandy Hale

------

Joining pageants was a dream I held close to my heart for years. It wasn't just about the glitz and glamour for me; it was about honoring the women who inspired me, the strong, resilient women who shaped me into who I am today.

My grandmother and my mother were my pillars of strength, my guiding lights in a world full of uncertainties. They taught me the importance of grace under pressure, of standing tall in the face of adversity, and of always striving to be the best version of myself.

My mother always had a hunch that I would eventually step onto the stage, but she never knew exactly when. So when I finally made the decision to pursue my dreams, it was a momentous occasion for both of us.

My journey officially began when I took that first step onto the stage of Miss World 2019. It was a nerve-wracking experience, but as soon as I stepped into the spotlight, I felt a sense of purpose wash over me. This wasn't just about me anymore; it was about representing something greater than myself.

With my mother cheering me on from the sidelines, I felt a surge of confidence unlike anything I had ever experienced before. And as I stood there, basking in the glow of the stage lights, I knew that this was just the beginning of a journey that would change my life forever.

------

As I stand amidst the bustling crowd at the airport, waving to the sea of supporters before me, I can't help but reflect on the journey that has brought me here. It's been five years since I first embarked on this path, filled with determination and ambition.

In the past, there were moments of doubt and questioning, especially when I fell short of victory last year. I wondered why success seemed to elude me despite my efforts. But with the passage of time, I've come to understand that everything unfolds according to its own timeline. If something is truly meant for you, no obstacle can prevent it from coming to fruition.

As I soak in the cheers and applause of my supporters, a sense of profound realization washes over me. This moment, right here, right now, is mine. And I am determined to seize it with all my might. I will not only fight for my own dreams but also for the dreams of my entire country. In this moment, we are united in purpose and determination, ready to conquer whatever challenges may come our way.

--------

As my eyes lock onto her radiant smile, my heart skips a beat, and the world around me seems to fade into the background. In that moment, everything else pales in comparison to the overwhelming feeling of pride and love that fills my being.

I know, without a shadow of doubt, that she is my rock, my anchor, and my guiding light. Her unwavering support and unwavering belief in me have carried me through the toughest of times. She is not just my girlfriend; she is my inspiration, my confidante, and my partner in crime.

With her by my side, I feel invincible. I make a silent vow to myself in that moment to cherish her, to love her with every fiber of my being, and to stand by her through thick and thin. She is more than just a lover to me; she is my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and my person.

From the very beginning, she has been there, cheering me on, lifting me up, and believing in me when I doubted myself. And as I bask in the glow of her smile, I am reminded once again of just how lucky I am to have her in my life.

Samantha is my unwavering support and my constant source of strength in times of both joy and sorrow. Through every twist and turn of life's journey, she has stood faithfully by my side, a beacon of love and encouragement.

In moments of despair and doubt, Samantha's presence is a ray of light, lifting me up and infusing me with renewed hope. Her words of encouragement echo in my heart, reminding me of my worth and potential even in the face of adversity.

No matter how challenging the circumstances, Samantha's unwavering belief in me never wavers. She is my motivator, always there to inspire and uplift me with her boundless positivity and unwavering support.

In essence, Samantha is not just a girlfriend; she is a blessing, a gift that I cherish every single day. Her love knows no bounds, and her presence in my life is nothing short of a miracle. I am endlessly grateful for her, for she is truly the best partner anyone could ever ask for.

As Samantha hugged me tightly, her words of encouragement filled me with determination and resolve.

"Baboo, you can do this! Fight for it!"

She exclaimed, her smile a beacon of reassurance in the bustling airport.

Her concern for my well-being was palpable as she expressed,

"I will miss you, baboo. Take care of yourself while I'm not with you, and please call me when you land."

The sadness in her voice mirrored the ache in my own heart, knowing that we would be apart for a while.

Returning her embrace with equal fervor, I echoed her sentiments,

"I will miss you too, babs. Please take care of yourself as well."
Amidst the crowd, I yearned to utter those three little words, but the moment passed, leaving our unspoken love hanging in the air as a silent promise between us.

------

My team is already in the waiting area, and while waiting for our flight to be announced, I get my phone and call her.

"Baboo, I love you so much. I will miss you a lot. Please follow me right away." I told her

"Omg! You're so clingy, baboo," Sam said on the line while laughing out loud.

"But seriously, I love you too. Don't worry, baboo, I will follow right away. I just need to clear my schedule so I can follow right away," she added.