COLET'S POV
We finally arrived back in General Luna after a long drive, but I didn't mind at all. We had so much fun and enjoyed each other's company the entire way back. To be fair, ang gaan at ang saya kasama ni Aiah. She brings out the child in me and her childlike spirit is so contagious.
After our deep conversation earlier, we went to Magpupungko Rock Pools. I didn't expect to feel so comfortable opening up about such a significant part of my life to her so easily. Aiah had a way of breaking down my walls without even trying.
The rock pools were stunning as always, and Aiah's excitement was infectious. She ran ahead, eager to explore, while I took my time, appreciating the serene beauty of the place. The clear water sparkled under the sun, making it very inviting.
Aiah turned back and called out to me, "Colet, halika! Bilis! Ang ganda ng tubig!"
I smiled and joined her. The cool water was refreshing, washing away all the walls I had built around me, and I surrendered to it.As we swam and played in the pools, I realized how much lighter I felt around her. She gives off that energy that it's okay, that I'm safe, that I can embrace my all naked truths, that I can embrace the child in me and no one's going to judge me.
I've always been a listener—a protector and a shoulder to cry on for everyone I love. I try to provide a safe space for others because I understand how harsh the world can be and how burdensome life can get.
Sometimes, all you really need is someone who listens, who holds your hand through tough times, and makes you feel seen, like your pain is visible to the world and your feelings are valid.
But, you know, sometimes, even a listener needs someone to listen to them too.
And that's what Aiah did. She just listened. She provided that safe space for me to be vulnerable, for my wounds to feel seen and validated. She did exactly what I would do for the people I love.With her reassuring look, parang ipinaramdam niya sa akin na pwede. Pwede akong maging mahina. Pwede akong lumabas sa protective shield ko, na hindi ko kailangang magtago. Hindi ko kailangang magpanggap o magkunwari na okay lang ako palagi. Para akong nakahinga ng maluwag.
I never used to believe people who said they could feel a connection at first sight. When you know, you know, they say, but I was skeptical.
Aiah, on the other hand, proved me wrong. The moment our eyes met for the first time, I felt this strange connection with her. It was like I had known her for a long time already. It felt familiar and strange at the same time.
Yung unang beses na nagtagpo ang mga mata namin, parang may sumabog sa puso ko at natakot ako. Kaya ako naging masungit sa kanya at halos hindi ko siya kinakausap. May mga pagkakataon na nagtatanong siya sa akin, pero hindi ako sumasagot kasi ayokong makilala siya. Ayokong makaramdam ng kung ano, at lalo ayokong iopen yung sarili ko ulit sa isang tao.
I tried but eventually failed. Obviously.
Siya yung tipong taong parang gusto mong protektahan, gusto mong alagaan. She’s too innocent, too gentle and too fragile na hindi mo din kayang tiisin, hindi mo kayang pabayaan.
As we parked and got off the scooter, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of contentment and pure joy. It was moments like these that made me appreciate the simplicity and beauty of life here on the island.
Again, for the nth time, she struggled to unbuckle her helmet again. Ang cute niya para talaga siyang bata. I placed my helmet on the scooter and said, “Ako na.” She made a silly face, mocking me. I remove the helmet from the top of her head. “Thank you.” She said. Ginulo ko ang buhok niya while smiling at her and scrunching my nose.
Nauna na akong pumasok sa hostel. Andito pala si Gwen nakaabang sa front desk. “Aba, iba yata ang ngiti mo ngayon ah.” I ignored her.
“Oh, hi Gwenny! Ligo lang ako.” Sigaw ni Aiah pagkapasok niya.
“Sure, mukhang nag enjoy kayo ah.” Gwen smirked at Aiah and then turned her gaze back to me, still wearing that smirk. She raised her eyebrows as if she knew something was up.
“Ang aga mo naman. Wala bang customers sa Shaka? Andami mo atang time.” I asked trying to divert the topic.
“Naku, wag mo iniiba ang topic. Maria Nicolette, anong meron?” Nilapit niya sa akin yung mukha niya like she's scrutinizing something in my eyes.
I pushed her head away with my palm. “Ewan ko sayo!” I headed towards my room and said, “Ligo na muna ako.”
I took a shower, and the flashback of what happened today played in my brain. I’m happy, I feel light, and I feel seen. The warmth of the water matched the warmth I felt inside, like everything finally made sense.
It felt like I had been navigating through life in darkness for far too long, feeling alone and isolated. Maybe, just maybe, it's time to change that. Perhaps it's time to open up and let some light into my life.
YOU ARE READING
Hiraya (COLAIAH)
FanfictionFeeling lost and questioning her life, Aiah sets off on a solo trip in search of answers. She never expects that this journey will lead her to a deep, meaningful connection that changes her forever.