HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS I met Meinard when I was in third grade and him in fifth grade.

We went on the same school since like the dawn of time. He and his brothers were popular because of being naughty but still excellent in academics. Meinard was the youngest. Oh, and another reason why they were popular is because they are Haces, the sons of Mr. James Hace, the Chairman of a leading establishment in the world, maybe. We became friends when I was on fourth grade. His cousin was my classmate and whenever he would drop by to talk to her, he would wave hello to me. His cousin, Audrey, and I became friends when we were on the same group for reporting. Everyone were close to the Haces, especially to David. They werent the choosy type of who to be friends with. But, of course, they have their own very close friends who knew the other sides of their personalities. It all started on Valentines Day. He gave me this huge white Ted E Bear that I was always hugging in sleep until now with my favorite dark chocolates. After that, another presents followed. They were all in my room now together with the other presents I received. I wish you could imagine what my room was like, since I was receiving stuffs from him for almost twelve years. Imagine that? The first time that he asked me on a date was when I was in sixth grade. He courted me for a year and a half until I made it official that we were couples. I couldnt help smiling when remembering that. It was just teenage crush, but neither of us assumed it would get serious as the time pass by. Of course, my brothers didnt know Meinard and I were dating. We were like just friends in school so they couldnt be sure. About the stuffs Meinard was giving me I knew Andrew didnt really believed that I told my brother it was from different people. I didnt tell Meinard that I lied to my brothers about that, not until we became legal. What he knew by the time was that I was telling Andrew he was just courting me.

When I got in high school, we were on the same building again. Meinard, his brothers and friends (I mean, really close friends like Kenneth) were always the center of attention. They werent enjoying the spotlight like others would have; instead they were like just normal students. Since Meinard was two years ahead of me, we just spent two years in high school together. We made it two years without breaking up. His father wanted him to be admitted on the same school with his brothers (which was out of the country), but he didnt like it. He insisted on staying and everybody thought it was because of me. Well, I didnt think so. I finally told Andrew about Meinard and me after graduation. Well, he couldnt stop wondering what Meinard was doing there on my graduation when he was supposed to be out of the country, spending the vacation with his family. He didnt get mad, fortunately, but he grounded me for lying to him. It was alright, I thought, because Meinard would be out of the country most of the summer. But when Meinard left, Andrew told me that my being grounded would be effective when Meinard got back. So I spent four months without seeing Meinard much. He was allowed in the house only six hours a week. Thats what you get when you keep having a boyfriend a secret for four years. Since my consequence got off around August, I couldnt see Meinard that much anymore. Only once a week, because apparently, he was busy on school. But hes always calling before sleep and, sometimes, in morning before heading off to school. On second semester, there was this girl lingering around him. We fought because of that (our first major fight) because I got mad at him. Well, who wouldnt get mad if your boyfriend admitted that hed gone out with another girl, right? And it happened not only once. He couldnt really blame me. The girl didnt want to dump him, so I did. He stopped seeing her or even texting her, but she was still there. So, I broke up with him, and it wasnt really a good idea. Well, I dont think it was my fault. I really had no idea it was his mid-terms week, because mine was in next two weeks (we were admitted in different universities). He failed three subjects and the others

barely passed. What was wrong with him, right? It was exaggerated for me, at least. I had this crazy notion in my head that he did that to make me feel guilty and so I would have him back. Well, it worked. We were back together after two weeks because he bugged me almost every hour. But I didnt take him until I was sure he really had no connections with the girl anymore. Things got serious from there. He never messed up again. I somehow met his other personality. He doesnt like keeping me in the shadows. He wasnt shy showing me who he really was. I met his parents when I turned eighteen. Andrew threw a small party just family and a few friends. But before that, on lunch, we met with Meinards family. His mother was really kind and sweet. His father, though, was scary-looking, but kind. Cyrus and David went home just for that occasion. I guess Meinard made them do that. Our seventh year together was so much complicated I know. It was amazing, right? Weve reached six years. Who would have thought? We were just kids when we started. So, anyway, he was on his fourth year, and that means OJT. He was busier than ever, so it was almost impossible to fit me into his schedule. I tried talking to him about breaking up, but he didnt entertain the thought. He even told me, Hey, its my last year. Dont get me depressed, because I dont want to have another year. So we decided to see each other just twice a month. I didnt want to be an addition to his stress. But he still seems to manage to see me at least once a week. On Davids graduation, Meinard got the permission to take me with his family, but only a week. Well, Davids graduation wouldnt last a month, would it? So, there, we made it again. Seven years. I myself was amazed and I couldnt help wondering sometimes how we got that far. We could have broken up when he got to college and met other girls and never be together again, but we didnt. But we broke up again when I was in my fourth year, and it took a solid month before we got back together. He broke up with me because I was being too busy and I couldnt make time for him. There were many times that I hadnt been able to show up on our date because of sudden change of

schedules. Well, that was what I thought the reason he left me. But when he was there in front of me suggesting a break up, the real reason came up. I had no idea that some of my friends could do that to me. There was this guy, Brian, who was trying to court me, but I kept on turning him down because I wasnt available. Some of our friends set me up. In all the times our group was together doing research, they were taking these crazy pictures of me and Brian when I wasnt looking and we were near each other. I didnt know why they wanted me and Meinard off. Maybe, its because Brain was more their friend than Meinard. There was this time they pushed me towards Brian and we almost kissed, and I was glad we didnt. I got angry at them, and they apologized for a week. Hello. Who wouldnt get angry? What if we accidentally kissed? Meinard havent even kissed me yet, even a peck on my cheek. I didnt know they took a picture of that, and sent it to Meinard. And that picture was the root of our break up. I explained, and he listened. He asked who I was with when I was cancelling on him, so I told him the truth. I was with Brian and our other friends because we were doing research together. I had to go with them, because our topics were linked. He listened to my explanation, but he didnt change his mind. I spent the next days crying over our broken relationship. He wouldnt answer my calls, so that means he also didnt want to see me. It was over, and I thought our almost eight years would be over forever. I didnt talk to my friends oh, they werent my friends anymore. They apologized again and again, but I never accepted. They could see my red-swollen eyes and they couldnt help feeling bad. They explained that Brian had nothing to do with it, that it was just them, but I didnt care. Alice helped me in any way she could. She talked to Meinard for me but it didnt work. So I just cried on her shoulder for a month until Meinard went to see me. And so, our almost eight years continued until we celebrated our anniversary eight!

Eight years turned to nine. When I was in my semester of OJT, Meinard was making plans already. Hed give me a year to experience work because according to him he wouldnt let me work anymore after our wedding. On my free times, he was bringing me to see his house. It was being constructed, and he decided to do it according to the type of house I wanted. He made plans on marrying me, and I didnt think he was serious. Not until his house was done and he named it after me, anyway. When I graduated, he insisted to do the celebration on our house. Since he had a lot of connections, he helped me find a job. I became a teller on a bank after I passed the board exam. He was my driver, driving me to and from work everyday. Since he had three years of work experience already, his father let him take over on RUSH. We were both busy but somehow, he still managed to make time whenever I was free. We reached our tenth year. I couldnt think how wonderful it was. Ten years of just seeing each other and being together. He hadnt kissed me yet, even though he got too close to it many times in the past, and he still managed to stop himself. He was holding my hand just when he couldnt help it anymore. He was embracing me when something bad happened or something too good happened. And the most wonderful thing about it all was, he never complained and he never got bored. And no matter what my mood was, he could always make me smile. And that was the most charming thing about him. But on the next six months, a lot changed. He was being cold, and he never talked about his plan for our future again. He only went to see me twice a month. He only calls me three times a week. I talked to him about that but all he told me was just he was just busy and tired of work. Of course I knew that wasnt true, but he didnt want to talk about it anymore. When I pushed the subject, we fought. He wasnt even that enthusiastic anymore when talking about us. He was cold. I tried forcing him to tell me the real problem, but he wouldnt tell me. I pushed it once again, and we just argued about it. I didnt apologize, and I didnt try to work things out. I wasnt slow, and I knew by his actions that I have to break it off already. He didnt apologize, and he didnt try to work things out,

either. And when he didnt stop me when I was leaving and just let me go, I knew it was really over. Our ten years ended right then and right there, and I didnt even know why. After that night, he called just to ask how I was doing, if I was okay and if I had problems. I told him I was fine, even though I had been crying. I wasnt okay at all. Who would be okay, after being left without knowing the real reason why? Whenever I would remember the crazy efforts he did just for me, the wonderful things hed done for me, the moments we were happy together, the ten years weve spent together, the way he stared at me, the way he moved around me, his proud expression when I was with himI couldnt help crying. A month passed. He didnt come back to me. At that time, I was certain there wouldnt be a continuation on our ten years. That was the end, and it ended just like that. After three months, we lost connection. Even though when I got over it, I still couldnt help feeling sad whenever I would remember that. I couldnt say our ten years was wasted, because it wasnt. It had been wonderful, and I would treasure that. After a year of our break up, I got in another relationship with an architect. His name was Chris, and he was supposed to be just my rebound guy. But he had his own way of getting to me no matter how much I guarded myself. I didnt notice that I was being serious until he got hospitalized. I learned that he had leukaemia. I worried so much, because I was afraid to lose him. I lost my job because I was AWOL for two months. I stayed beside him until his last breath. I cried myself to sleep for five months. When I was ready again, I went in my former office to get a certification for finding a new job. They surprised me by offering a second chance. They told me they understood my situation at the time. I took it because finding a new job would be hard. If not for Meinard, I wouldnt even have this job in the first place. Chris and I had two years. Inside those two years, I cried so much when I lost him. I didnt have another relationship after him, not even a rebound guy.

Who would have imagined that I cried because of men? I was seeing Cyrus from time to time, sometimes David. They were talking to me whenever we would bump into each other. But neither of them mentioned their younger brother. But since he was the CEO of RUSH and he was famous, he was always on the news. I got to know some things about him. He dated a supermodel three months after we lost connection, but he dropped it after five months. He dated the daughter of Chairman of JAG for ten months. After four months, he dated a famous journalist. Before Chris died, he was dating a Hollywood star. After Chris death, I didnt have any interest on men. I didnt care who Meinard was dating, or what country he was in. I got over him the moment I cried for Chris. Or at least, thats what I thought. After two years, I welcomed relationships again. I dated several men; a broadcaster, a lawyer, a med student, a marine. But I settled for an engineer. His name was Kier, and he was two years older than me. Of all men I dated, he was the one guy who got my interest. He was kind and sweet, and his outer appearance fit with his inner character. He could always make me smile. Things got serious as time goes by. Andrew and Seth approved of him, but they couldnt help worrying about me. They didnt want to see me going through the same pain. But I doubt I would cry over Kier for nothing. I was on the way to meet him for our third anniversary when I bumped into Meinard on the mall. As in we really bumped each other and he had to hold my hands to keep the present from falling. It was for Kier, and I was glad it didnt fall. But I wasnt glad that Meinard was holding my hand while staring at me in surprise, because it sent some weird reactions on my veins. He dropped my hand and smiled at me. We chatted for a while, and then we had connection again. Just like that. I got late on my appointment with Kier, and I explained that I bumped into an old friend. He didnt know about me and Meinard, so I didnt worry mentioning his name. I only told him about Chris.

Since then, Meinard sometimes was calling me to ask how I was doing. We would talk on the phone for hours, talking about stuffs. Of course, Kier knew that. I even told him I had dinner with Meinard once with his brothers. Cyrus was dating Alice, and I frowned at my best friend because she never told me. Kier had business with his parents. They lived in another country so he needed to get out of town. Neither of us expected that he would be gone for long. He told me he was just helping their business so he didnt know when he would be back. When he didnt call before sleep, I would call him and would always demand why he hadnt called me yet. He had been there since five months ago, and I missed him already. He got irritated with me because he was busy and I was naughty, calling him almost every hour. Could he blame me? I missed him. We argued about that and hed hung up on me. What was wrong with him? I just wanted to talk to him. He wasnt calling or returning my calls these past few days. I was thinking he had a woman there. When I called around dinner to apologize to him for being naughty, I couldnt reach him. My calls were forwarded to his voice mail. I left him messages to call me back as soon as possible. I even told him I was injured, so he wouldnt hesitate to call me back. Desperate, wasnt I? The phone rang. I quickly answered it. Kier, I sighed happily, then smiled. No. Its Meinard. My smile faded. I pulled the phone away from my ear and looked at it. I realized I was holding the landline. Kier never called at my landline, unless he couldnt reach me. Hey. Im sorry, I thought you were him. I said when I put the phone back on my ear. I didnt know youre waiting for his call, Im sorry. Maybe I should call another time. No, I answered quickly. I mean, I dont think hes going to call anymore. Hes probably asleep by now. I sighed. Then pulled my eyebrows together and glanced again at the phone I was holding. Hey, how did you know my landline? I wondered.

I asked Alice, he answered quickly. Well, I thought I should call here instead of your mobile. Youre not home often times, so you should probably be receiving calls on your mobile. I could imagine his shrug. Is that okay? he added. Yeah, I went to sit on the couch. So, what made you dial my number? Just want to talk to you, he sounded like smiling. Sleep isnt arriving yet. Alice told me you should probably be up so I called you. There was a sound of plastic in the background. You sounded relieved when you answered the phone. Didnt he call you the whole day? I called him earlier, and we argued. I sighed. Hed hung up on me and never answered my calls. I admitted. Oh? I just wanted to talk to him. Hes always busy, I sighed again then frowned at the carpet. I missed him, and he doesnt seem to understand that. Maybe he doesnt feel the same, he offered. Be thankful youre not on a punching distance. He laughed. Im just kidding. Youre hot headed, he commented. Dont miss him too much. Thats bad for the heart. Well, I couldnt help it, I frowned again. Lucky you, you can laugh all you want. I mumbled. You can, too. How can I laugh if Kier isnt answering my calls? I demanded. Easy. Just look at the mirror, he replied lightly. Youre dreadful. Am I? Well, Ill take that as a compliment. There was music in the background. But you can try doing that, though. And what would I get? I challenged. A smile, he answered simply. Come on. Do it. Then next time youre down, just look in the mirror and youll find yourself smiling. He said, and then I heard a crunching sound.

Youre just making fun of me, Meinard. I told him. Go ahead, try it. I frowned, but used the television as a mirror. I stared at my frowning reflection and frowned deeper. Im seeing a frowning face. I didnt smile. I said. I know. Theres nothing funny about the reflection because its beautiful, right? Theres a smile in his voice. I didnt say youre gonna laugh at yourself, did I? What did you mean, then? I was getting irritated. Well, I was assuming youre going to smile because you actually did that silly thing even though your boy friend You I interrupted him. Youre dreadful! He laughed. Really, Ash, I didnt know youre going to do it. If youre just here, I already threw you out. I leaned back on the couch. Silly me, why did I do that? The truth is, Im just making fun of you, he said. Good night Meinard, I hung up. After five seconds, it rang again. Good evening, I greeted as I answered. Whats good in your evening? Hey, Ash, I was just kidding, he said gently. I smiled. I know. Then whats with the hanging up? he sounded like he was frowning. Oh, its to inform you that Im not in the mood for that. I said. Wheres your boyfriend, Ash? A lot of people will receive your bad mood just because hes not returning your calls. Does he know that? Maybe he needs to bang his head on the wall, he said. You know, what, Ash? Sulking wont do you any good. Give him a hard time when he gets back. He suggested.

Im thinking just to do that, I smiled. Im smiling? Huh. Funny how Meinard could still make me smile despite my sulking mood. And he didnt even say anything funny. We talked about stuffs the next minute. About work, family, friendsand it came back on relationships. Now and then, I would check my phone for any sign of Kier, but there was none. How about you, single? I cant imagine, I said to him when he mentioned about his love life. What happened to all those superstars you dated? Arent they good enough for you? Its not that, he replied. I just dont feel like dating now. I hadnt known how to be single for a while. He stopped dating since a year ago. Shouldnt you be marrying by now? Youre what, forty? I teased. Oh, woman is not a problem. I can have one if I wanted to marry. Thats right. I forgot who I am talking to, I said sarcastically. I wish you a happy life, Meinard. I added. He chuckled. Well, being single is not that bad. No headaches. Its good to feel that Im not staying up late at night waiting for my girl to return my calls and I dont have to sulk because I miss her, and she doesnt seem to understand it so she got irritated with me and hung up with me Hes just busy, I say defensively. And I dont have to be bothered that she cant make time for me out of his busy schedule. You dont know anything, I muttered. Yeah, I dont, he agreed and changed the subject. If youll excuse my curiosity, Ash, how many relationships did you have after? he didnt finish, because he really didnt have to. Two, including Kier, I answered. I told him about Chris and what happened to him. Then I told him when and how I met Kier and why I decided to settle to him. So, how many years are you together now? he wondered. Almost four, I replied.

Four? he repeated. Oh, Im jealous. Dont feel that yet. He still hadnt beaten your ten years. I chuckled to keep it light. But he would, wouldnt he? he asked in a serious yet soft voice. I sighed and smiled, switching the phone to my other ear. Yeah, maybe he would. I think Im gonna settle. I murmured. Good for you, he said softly. Dont forget to send me an invitation, okay? Ill feel bad if you do. Sure. I chuckled, and then sighed. Meinard, why do you think a man gets easily irritated when his girl is naughty? But when youre the one to bother, you want instant and full attention, and when you didnt get it, you will get angry? I asked him. I dont know. Im not like that, he answered. But maybe because you timing is not just that right. Do you think thats why? Yes. How do men appreciate things? I dont know. Were all different. Do you think Kier will like it if I surprise him there? You mean youre going to go to him? Well, I dont think so. You said hes busy. He wouldnt like a surprise visit because hell be stressed entertaining you while doing work. Thats what I think, anyway. But you know him better than I do, so you should know how his mind works. Okay, I sighed again. We talked on the phone, either of us paying attention to the time. I guessed wed already talked about all the topics we could think of, but neither of us talked about our past. When the conversation would lead on our past, he would stir it in other direction. Maybe he doesnt want to feel guilty, dumping me without any reasons. But thats alright; I didnt care about any of it now, anyway. I just treasured them.

Around two, my eyes felt heavy. It would be rude to fall asleep while still on the phone with him, so I didnt try to delay my sleep. I told him Id go to bed, so we hung up. The next morning, the sound of my ringing cell phone woke me. I was still half asleep when I answered it, so my replies were a little late. It was Kier, asking worriedly how I was doing and what happened to me. I remembered that I told him I was injured, so, I told him the truth. He sounded mad while scolding me and telling me not to do that again because it wasnt funny. I wasnt trying to be funny, I snapped. My mood wasnt always good in the morning, especially if Id just wake. Im sorry for being childish. I just want to apologize to you but you wont answer my calls and you never returned any of it. Dont blame me for making you worried. He quickly apologized for not returning my calls. I felt suddenly guilty when he told me that his father got hospitalized and he wasnt doing so well. He told me not to apologize before I did it because he knew it was his fault because I didnt know. When his father got okay, he quickly went home to make up for the times that we missed being together. We were always going out when I dont have work. Sometimes he wanted me to sleep overnight at his place or him to mine, but I didnt agree. I made a promise to Andrew that I wouldnt do something like that if just the two of us. Kier understood, so he didnt push it. Alice invited me on her place when Kier gave me time for my friends. I thought it was just the two of us (because she didnt mention others would be coming). So I was surprised to see the Haces there. She apologized for forgetting. I let it pass because when we were talking on the phone, she couldnt stop talking about Cyrus. Maybe that was why she forgot. There was this other girl with us, Louise. She was Davids girl friend. She and Alice were obviously close because theyre both a candidate for Mrs. Hace. We just talked and teased each other. Our girl time would be after dinner, when the three Haces left us alone. This would be a slumber party. Cyrus was helping Alice on the kitchen preparing dinner. I didnt feel to ruin their moment, so I just went on the back yard to join David, Louise and Meinard, who was grilling. Louise and I kept laughing when Meinard and David started their usual banter. Alice showed up a moment later, telling

David she forgot to buy something and asking him if he could go because Cyrus didnt want to. David agreed and brought Louise with him on the minimart. So, Meinard and I left. Arent you going to invite Kier? he asked, playing with the tongs. No, I answered. He and Alice werent getting along these past few days. They wouldnt tell me why, even when I got mad at them both. Is it okay with him that youre here? Hes not the kind of pulling me with him when he got a problem with someone. And Alice and I were best friends since the dawn of time, so he cant do anything if I wanted to be here. Isnt Alice telling you to dump him because hes not being nice to her? I imagine I would. He smiled. I frowned. Alice is not like that, either. She knew I love him, I replied. Youre really dreadful. What kind of friend you are if youll make your buddy be torn between their love and you? He chuckled. Yeah, Alice is not like that. Shes nicer than she looks. What is that? Alices demanding voice came from behind. I turned to see her coming towards us. Nothing, Ashley here is just telling me how nice you are. Its just hard to believe, Meinard smiled, then laughed as he got out of the way as Alice reached to muss his hair. I shouldnt have invited you, she frowned and handed him a plate. If I just have someone else to do the grilling, I already threw you out. I dont mind replacing him, I offered. Alice gave me a high five then went back inside. I think Cyrus gonna settle with her, Meinard said conversationally. Silence followed. I stared at the burning coals, thinking how my wedding would turn out. My groom and my bridesmaid werent friends anymore in a reason I did not know. How Ive found someone I like, Meinard said quietly, interrupting my thoughts. Good for you. I replied, glancing at him. He was staring at the coals, too.

But shes going to move out of town soon. Then go after her, I suggested. She doesnt like me. Why? Im not sure, he muttered. Did she tell you she doesnt like you? No, but its obvious, he sighed. Should I still go or just look for another? I dont know, I shrugged. Youll know what to do if youre certain of your feelings. I said. I thought woman is not a problem. Why do you look problematic now? I teased. Shes an exception, he smiled, working on the grill. Is that the reason why you like her? Yeah, maybe, its one of the reasons. He didnt talk again after that. Our slumber party was fun. Although the Haces didnt leave until one, we still got to talk about stuffs before we crashed. After that night, I didnt see Meinard again. The next month, Kier took me out on a dinner. Hed set up a candlelit dinner on a great garden. There was a mini water falls not far from our table and the sound of the running water was calming. There was a soft melody that I didnt know where it came from. There was a bouquet on the table and he handed it to me before pulling out a chair and letting me settle. We talked about just the normal stuffs and about us. I was growing more and more uncomfortable as the minutes passed. I had prepared my self for this because I knew this would be coming. Ive already decided what to do. I thought I was ready, but I realized I was wrong when he stood and he walked around the table. I knew from the time he took me here that this was the night, and I wish I hadnt let it go this far. He knelt beside me, showed me a ring, and stared deep into my eyes as he asked me to marry him. Tears flooded my eyes, but it wasnt because I was happy. It was tears of guilt.

I didnt want to lie to my self. The reason I turned him down was because the second he knelt in front of me, I got a vision of MeinardMeinard! asking me to marry him. But when I blinked, it was Kier again, asking for my hand. I realized then that I was just lying to my self all along that I got convinced of my lies. Id never gotten over Meinard, and Id never fall out of love with him. What I felt for Chris, for Kierit was all different from what I felt for Meinard that I was trying to bury. I loved them, but I wasnt in love with them. It was Meinard all along. I felt guilty and hurt because of what I did to Kier. Hed been good to me, loved me more than I loved him. But I turned him down for a man who doesnt love me more than a friend. But I had to tell Kier the truth, I owed him that much. He moved out of town a few days after we broke up. Hed called me and asked how I was, and hed told me that he wanted to be friends. He asked me if he could still come to see me. He told me to call him if I needed him. Hed told me not to feel guilty, because he was fine. Hed told me to be happy, because thats the only thing that would make him forgive me. Id answered okay to all, but deep inside the guilt was eating me. After wed hung up, I cried for hours. Though I was the supervisor now in the office, I still got suspension for being AWOL. The storm caught me in a very bad timing. I was at the supermarket when it hit, and I couldnt go home. There wasnt a cab in sight, no transportation to get me home. I was about to call my brothers to pick me up when I felt a hand rested on the top of my head. What is this pretty little miss doing here? I looked up to see Meinard smiling down at me. Pretty little miss? I raised an eyebrow. He dropped his hand. Youve got a problem with that? Youre pretty, but little. And youre a miss. He grinned, and then laughed when I elbowed him. Do you need a ride? Ill drop you. he offered. I dont want to get you out of the way.

Its okay. A cup of hot coffee will do, he chuckled. No, its okay. Im not in any rush to go home. Are you sure? Its storming. I checked, I wouldnt have offered if Im not sure, he raised his eyebrows. Besides, if you wont accept my offer, youll get stranded here for about who knows how long. I was about to tell him that my brothers could pick me, but different words came out, Okay, then. Thank you. As we walked towards his car, I noticed for the first time that he was holding just my grocery bags. What are you doing here, anyway? I wondered. I was on the coffee shop. I saw you looking troubled, so I thought I can be nice to offer you a ride. He smiled. He was driving the same way I remembered; dangerous. I hadnt put on my seatbelt yet. I glanced at him and to the speedometer. I reached for the seatbelt and put it on, letting him hear the snap of it. He chuckled and slowed down. Meinard, can you be more careful? I still have many dreams to come true, and I want to reach fifty. I looked at him as he chuckled again. Are you still racing? I wondered. He and his brothers started racing when he reached eighteen. Yes, he answered. I guess Im not gonna stop until I got into an accident. Youre crazy. My apartment wasnt that far from the supermarket, so we got home less than thirty minutes. I let him walk me up to my place because my scary neighbors were home. They were partying again, like always. I invited Meinard in and let him sit on the couch. He looked around, probably studying the surroundings. He was the one who gave me the apartment, too. Whos your neighbor, Ash? he asked as I make coffee. I put the lasagna on the oven and brought the coffee to the living room. Thanks, he said as I handed him his coffee. I dont know them. Im not talking to them as much as possible. I answered as I sat.

Why? Theyre scary. I muttered. I think theyre mad. How many are they living there? he wondered. Two, theyre a couple. Couple? he repeated. Isnt this supposed for single women only? It used to be. But the owners not Mrs. B anymore. So, anyone can live here as long as theyre paying. I explained. He frowned. Its hard to sleep here at night since they moved in, because theyre loud, always knocking on doors, I told him, keeping the grimace off my face. And youre opening your door, he stared at me. Once, the first time it happened. I dont want to go mad like them. Why dont you just move out? Im still looking for a new apartment. Somewhere quiet and safe, I shrugged. Seths living here with me since they moved in. but, unfortunately, he cant go home tonight if the storm wouldnt stop. Hes stranded in his friends place. Im having my condo unit for sale. I can give it to you for rent to own if youd like, he offered. Thanks for the offer, Ill think about it, I smiled at him. My cell rang. Excuse me, I answered. Andrew, can I spend the night there? I asked. Im not at home, Im sorry. Thats why Im calling, he answered from the other line. Theres an emergency concerning Trixies parents, so we had to go out of town. What? I exclaimed. Are they okay? Yeah, Ill tell you about it when I got back. Are you home? Yes, I am. Is there someone home? No. Why? I groaned. Alice is out of town, too. Where am I gonna stay? I chewed my lower lip.

I thought youre home. Seths not here! Whats wrong with you people? Why do you have to leave me alone? I frowned. Kiers not here. Whos going to? What? he interrupted. Where is Seth? Hes stranded somewhere because of the storm. I told him not to travel anymore. I told him. What? his voice rose. Then why are you home? Call your colleagues and stay with them! Check in a hotel! Get I put the phone away because he was shouting. I could hear the buzz of his voice. When it stopped, I put it back on my ear. Calm down, Im not alone for the moment, okay? Ill try to do everything you said. Oh, the first two things you said, anyway, because thats the only thing I heard. I had to put away the phone because my eardrums almost jumped out of my ear. Whos there? he asked in a serious tone. Meinard, he caught me stranded on the supermarket so he took me home. Were having a cup of coffee. I paused when I heard noises outside the door. I think people are leaving. I should be okay. I stood and looked down the window. They left. Dont take chances. If you cant travel to the hotel, then at least dont let Meinard leave. Ill talk to you tomorrow. Okay, bye. I hung up. As soon as I turned, Meinard said, I cant help listening. Maybe you should check in on a hotel tonight. I walked to sit on the couch again. Thats what Andrew told me. Maybe Ill wait for the rain to stop for a while before leaving. I dont want to travel in this weather. I said. Do you want to stay for dinner? Ive got lasagna. Okay, he shrugged.

I glanced at the clock and stood again. Why is the time so fast these days? I frowned and walked out of the living room to the kitchen to prepare dinner. I set out the table for two and put the lasagna. I pulled out two cans of coke and water from the fridge. We ate across from each other, talking about anything. We were here again, together, like before. I wished it was always like this. I wished thered be a continuation to our ten years. I wished that its worth dumping Kier for him. But I knew it wasnt. After we ate, he helped me with the dishes, thought it was just a pair of things. After that, we ended up in the living room. I was about to switch on the TV when a loud thunder broke, followed by a total darkness. I froze, blinking in the dark. This is so not your day, Ash, Meinard muttered in the dark. I sighed and stood, and then looked out the window. What happened? I frowned. How am I gonna leave when the streetlights are out? I opened the lamp by the door which was powered by a battery. This was so not my day, really. I was stuck here with my scary neighbors next door, the storm wouldnt calm down, no one would accompany me, and no power. Then dont leave, Meinard suggested. Yeah, I dont have a choice now, do I? I went back to sit on the couch. I can drive you to Its not safe, I interrupted, and then I looked at him. Oh! YoureIm sorry. Youre Its okay, he assured me. Great, he didnt have a chance to go home. Ill stay here if youd like, since you dont want to leave. I bit my lower lip. My brothers told me not to let him leave me alone here. But other than that, I wanted him here.

Is it okay? Im sorry. Thats fine, he assured me and lay on the couch. Your couchs not that uncomfortable, I guess. He smiled. Or we can leave when the lights went on early. I slumped on my seat. The bell rang and I automatically looked towards the door. I just stared at it, knowing it was one of my intimidating neighbors. Meinard stood, heading towards it. Dont open it, I reached for his shirt but I was too late, so I got his hand as it swayed back. He stopped when I pulled him. Its okay, he squeezed my hand before letting it go. Meinard, I hissed after him. He opened the door and held it close to him so whoever it was outside wouldnt see here inside. The lamp was beside him so they could see each other easily. Uh, wheres Ashley? I heard a man asked. Shes resting, why? Meinards voice was low but serious. Who are you? None of your business, what do you need? Well, Aimee said shes alone here. I just thought that maybe she wanted to stay with us until the lights come back. Is that all? Yes. Okay. Shes not alone, as you can see, so she doesnt have to stay there. Have a good night. Meinard shut the door and locked it. He fixed his gaze to mine. Take my unit, Ash, and you can move in tomorrow, he said and sat back on the couch, Is he that mad? I asked in a low voice. Hes on drugs. He answered. I told you not to open it. Im sorry.

I sighed and pulled my legs up, then hugged my knees. The storm was still wild outside. Andrew called again and I told him that Meinard would stay because lights were out. Seth called again, too, and I told him the same. Sleep didnt come that easy. Since there wasnt anything to do, Meinard and I just talked for hours. He had me laughing in no time. It felt good that I was laughing with him again, but at the same time, it felt bad. The memories came back, and I just wanted to cry. I gave him a pillow and quilt. I apologized again about him being stranded here and having to sleep in my couch. He put the blanket around me as he reassured me it was alright, that I didnt have to worry. Hed sat beside me while I was holding the blanket tight around me because it was cold. As we talked, I was aware of his every move. I was busy thinking how we would end up close as in not an inch between us, and I was having trouble how to do that. But I thought he was thinking the same, and lucky him it was easier for him. Hed just stretched, and then put his arm at the back of the couch. As we continued to talk, his arm eventually made its way around my shoulder. I didnt know if he was conscious about that gesture, because he was busy talking. It was just resting lightly around me, until he moved it slowly and the next thing I knew, he was already holding me. We kept talking, and I eventually leaned into him. Im taking back what I said earlier: this is so my day! But on the back of my mind, I was scared. Im afraid to wake up in the morning knowing that this was just tonight, and it wont happen again, When he asked me about Kier, he loosened his arms around me, but kept it there. I was afraid hed move away from me if I told him not to do that, so I just let it go. When I didnt answer, he slowly released me, and then hesitated. The next minute, he hugged me again. I told him that Kier proposed to me. I told him how wonderful the dinner was, and how Kier asked. I paused when he slid his hand inside my blanket, and then continued when he just held my hand. His hand was cold, it was distracting.

Then why did you turn him down? he asked. Isnt his efforts not enough for you? Did I tell you I turned him down? Didnt you? I held his hand in both of mine. I did, alright. Well, I had this crazy vision in my head. What vision? Youre being a battered wife? I threw his hand. Kier is not like that, I frowned. Im just kidding. Youre always hot headed, he muttered and kissed my hair. So, youre not together anymore? he asked. I thought youre gonna settle. I thought, too. Butthings just changed. I shrugged. You know, Im always telling about my self. Why dont you try telling yours, too? What would I tell? Theres nothing interesting about me, he answered. Okay, except for the woman I liked. But its not really about me. Then tell me about her, I suggested. Yeah, this is just for tonight so Id better enjoy it, I thought. Shes gorgeous. I waited, but he didnt say anything more. Thats it? Thats all you can tell me about her, gorgeous? I frowned. Is she that amazing that you cant say a paragraph of description about her? He chuckled. Okay. Shes nice, funny, and not very patient all the time, caring, gentle, sweet I glanced up at him. He had a far-away look on his face. Shes pretty much one in a million. She doesnt care if shes gaining weight, unlike other women who complains about their figure. She doesnt care if she had a trace of ink on her face, but shes throwing a fit when she saw a tiny hair out of place. Shes easy to be with, and she hardly starts a fight. Well, men are different story. Shes a tough woman, but shes soft towards other people especially her friends. She doesnt care whos true behind her back, she just want to be nice to people, not caring if they would return the favor. She only shares her secrets to her family and her best friend. He kissed my hair and spoke softly. Shes my high school sweetheart, my first and only love.

I froze. Weve spent almost twelve years together. I courted her for a year and a half, and were a couple for ten years, he continued. She made me do things I didnt imagine I would do, and with crazy efforts. She was the only one who could make me smile no matter what my mood is, and shes the only one I couldnt shout at. I couldnt raise my voice to her when we were fighting, because I love her. Shes the only one I couldnt say no to, because I want her to be happy. So many times I wanted to touch her, but I was afraid shed get mad. I couldnt help feeling proud when she was with me, because every head turns when she passed. I was avoiding holding her hand, because if I do, I never wanted to let go. But sometimes I cant help it. When I was off to college, I couldnt help but to think of her, I worried that other guys would linger around her, that she would find someone else and dump me. But she didnt, and shes always been honest to me. I trusted her, and she never disappointed me. But I broke her trust and gone out with other girl. I felt horrible, cheating on her. She broke up with me, and that made me really depressed. I did everything to win her back. When she took me back, I couldnt sleep because of happiness. There was this picture that came to me. It was her with another guy, and it hurt. I broke up with her because of that. She doesnt have time for me, always cancelling on me. I listened on her explanation but I didnt really accept it. I thought she was getting back on me. I didnt talk to her for a month, but I missed her. Every morning I woke, she was the first thing on my thoughts. I knew I had to get back to her, so I did. Shes my life, and many time I planned about our future together. I was nuts about her. But I made her go. Id hurt her, made her cry. Ive broken her heart. I didnt tell her the reason, because she wouldnt understand. It sounded silly, even to me. But I wanted to see the world outside her. I looked for something else I didnt know. It was crazy. I was crazy. We lost connection after three months. I knew I had hurt her, and I always asked how she was doing. But I stopped it so she would get over me faster, because she didnt deserve me, after what Id done. I felt tears flooding my eyes.

I kept tabs on her without her knowledge, he stroked my hair gently as he continued. I knew everything that happened to her. I dated a lot of women, but none of them made me forget her. She was always there; she had owned a permanent place in my mind and heart. I was about to get back to her, but she had someone already. I knew she got over me when I saw how she cried over him, and I knew I wouldnt have a chance. I threw out ten years just like that, and I felt bad. She was AWOL for two months, and it was because she chose to stay beside him. She loved him, and it hurt me. Nobody knew that I already owned the bank where she was working. I gave her another chance, because I dont want her to go away. But she was empty when he died, so I decided it wasnt the best time to apologize and get back to her, after what Id done. Her best friend dated my brother, and I found a way to know more about her. I was willing to compete with her new man, but her best friend told me that I was too late. But I didnt listen. Our reunion wasnt a coincidence. I followed her, and I planned to bump her so I would get a chance to touch her hands once again. he chuckled softly. I got her number, and I called her often times. She was friendly enough to talk to me for hours, and I was glad for that. I didnt mention anything about the past; because I was afraid shed be upset and wouldnt want to talk to me again. I knew I wouldnt have a chance to get her because she was faithful to him, and I knew more than anyone that she wouldnt break that trust. That meant she wouldnt entertain me. When she told me shes going to settle to him, I was happy for her. I really was because she found someone she loved and loved her back. But deep inside, it hurts. I spent the next days suffering why Id let her go. When I saw her again, I didnt want to leave her. Boyfriend or no boyfriend, I promised myself I would tell her everything. I talked to her brothers and made them lied to her for me, even her best friend. The weather was on my side, too. It wasnt true that theyre out of town. In fact her best friends spending

the night with my brother and her brothers are really together. I didnt worry about her boyfriend, because if I wouldnt have time alone with her, I would say it in front of him. I slapped his chest. Im not sorry about making her brothers and best friend lie to her. It was worth it, he kissed my hair once again. I couldnt work up the courage to tell her, so I stalled. I didnt want to upset her, so I didnt embrace her right away. I had no idea she wouldnt mind. I wiped the tears gushing in my face. I felt broken when she told me that her boyfriend proposed to her. I remembered her saying she would settle for him. I wanted to shout because I was too late. I couldnt help reaching her hand since I couldnt see it. Her boyfriend is an engineer, so he would be able to give her a ring. I pretended to play with her hand, but the truth is I was looking for a ring. When I didnt feel any, hope surged through me. Right now, shes on my arms, listening as I blurt out everything. I didnt want to waste this chance, because this could be the only chance I have, he got something from his pocket. She turned down the man who loved her so much. The one, who didnt cheat on her, didnt hurt her, didnt leave her, and didnt make her family lie to her. So what chance would I get, right? Why would she take me when I did those things to her? He opened the little black box and I saw the ring. I bought this when were eight years together; I kept this in our house. I kept everything that I have for her and from her in our house. I know I dont have a chance, but I still want to try it. He pulled my face up so that I can look at him. He stared deep into my eyes. I love you, Ashley. I always have and always will. Youre the only one who got my heart, and it will always be yours. I should have done this a long time ago instead of letting you go. Id like a chance to prove how much I love you. I cant imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone but you. I want to see you first thing in the mornings, and before I sleep. Ive always been in love with you, he stroked my cheek gently and smiled. Will you marry me?

My tears ran down my cheeks, unstoppable. Our ten years would have a continuation. It would be an ongoing story. Yes, I answered wholeheartedly. He slid the ring on my finger and kissed it. I love you so much, he whispered. I love you, too, I whispered back and smiled. But Im not going to let you go away for tonight. You didnt have to make my brothers lie to me. I didnt like that. I didnt have any choice. But like I said, its worth it. Well, I wont let it pass. Okay, as long as youre not going to leave me, Ill take any consequence, he kissed my forehead. And youre going to move out of here tomorrow. You can have our house, its named after you. I just nodded. He glanced at his watch and sighed. Its late, maybe you should sleep. Are you okay here on the couch? You can sleep on my floor, its wider. I grinned, Id rather sleep beside you, you know. Sorry, I cant let you. I promised Andrew. Its bad enough that youre spending the night here with me alone. Thats fine, they knew, right? Andyou have a ring on your finger now. It doesnt matter, its just a ring. I can easily throw this out. He sighed. Ill take you to court tomorrow and well have our wedding as soon as possible. Marriage contract, well have that to I wont sign it. I want you to wait. I smiled and kissed his cheek. Good night, Meinard. I love you. I love you, he murmured softly. I got up and walked towards my room, leaving him alone. Ashley, he called. I turned around to look at him. Yes?

He walked towards me. I cant help this. He leaned down and kissed me for the first time. Im going to file a restraining order for you until our wedding, I frowned when he let me go. Have a nice sleep. I love you, he said and kissed me again. I went inside my room and locked the door. This was so my day! He is so Meinard. ***

This story is a work of fiction. Names, characters, place and incidents are product of the authors imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Copyright 2011 by Zairah Divino All rights reserved. No part of this story may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the author.

Edited and rewritten by Kriza Divino

Zairah Divino is currently a Bachelor in Journalism student at Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Shed written 14 stories already including Rain, Solitaire Monscas, Tangled, and Fairy. She lives now in Cainta, Rizal.