It started during taping. It was getting pretty late and Nadine’s eyes felt as if they were being dragged down by weights.
‘Nads…’
She turned around to see what this guy wants now. Only to see another, well-molded, face her friend was making.
It sent her body shaking. Lagi nalang, kahit kailan, kahit ano pang itsura niya, nakakatawa parin…
‘Alam mo yang mukha mo parang play-doh.. kayang-kaya mong i-mold..’
‘You know what else is like play-doh?’
Nadine tried to frown at his start at a joke. Her face just ended up showing that she was trying her best not to laugh. At least not yet.
‘What?’
‘My heart.. but it only softens under your touch..’ James’ eyes smiled along with his whole face. Everything about him seemed extra light-hearted tonight. For some reason.
‘Sira…’
‘Sino? Ako?’ He says in tagalog, his accent wrapping the whole sentence adorably.
‘Yeah..’
‘Okay lang.. atleast this time, you didn’t shoot down my pick-up line.. that’s gotta be a first..’
‘I must admit, pasado naman siya. Sa dinami-dami ba naman ng tinetesting mong pick-up line sa akin, akala ko mauubusan ka na.. Andami mo papalang baon.. Nagagamit mo naman ba yang mga yan?’
‘I’m not testing it out on you..’ He said seriously, this time.
Before she could ask, the director called their attention. She informed them that the next scene was the last but it required atleast 3 takes.
They were taping another movie to be released late next year. It was another romance film, but the writers were sneaky on this one.
It felt as if the script was real-life. It was a story of two actors, one started from humble beginnings and one is a daughter of a famous actor. They start filming a movie and they fall in love.
‘What do you mean you’re not testing-’
‘Guys, tawag na kayo sa set..’ someone called out. James just looked at Nadine. He took a deep breath then motioned for the both of them to walk.
‘Nads.. you’re a smart girl.. I know you are. What I don’t get is how you can still be so clueless after 4 years…’ James started.
Her confusion was written all over her face. Ano bang pinagsasabi ng lalakeng toh? Ngaun pa siya manggugulo, ngaung bago kami magtake?
Then, it’s as if James heard the voice in her head. ‘Hey, you’re the one who started asking..’
‘Ano?? You’re the one who started the pick-up lines.. Malay ko bang seryoso ka! Lagi ka naman kasing nangttrip ng ganyan, tapos sasabihin mo it’s for this girl I like! Ano ba!’ She was about to go on a tangent when the director started rehearsing them and their blocking.
Nadine was just glaring at him the whole time. Oh god, if looks could do serious things, it would probably dig a hole in his face.
She was frustrated, confused and just plain annoyed. Bakit ngayon? Why did he pick now to do this? Why not before?? Lalo na nung nagpaparamdam din siya? Nung nagpaparamdam ako? Bakit hindi pa noon?
Anong trip nitong taong toh? She thought.
‘Nadine, your line, iha?’ She was tapped on the shoulder by the director. After apologizing she continued to stare at James. He couldn’t look her in the eyes. Not yet.
Not when he hasn’t explained everything. While she kills him with her glares, inside he’s praying that she’d hear him out first.
The cameras started rolling and now it’s as if James said nothing. He immediately went into character and it surprised Nadine. Which made the director yell ‘cut!’ and made them re-do it again.
It went on like that for quite awhile. Then the director caught on and realized something was wrong with his actors. ‘Guys, break nga muna tayo. Kayong dalawa. Come with me..’
Nadine felt guilty right away. This was exactly what she was afraid of. Once one of them expressed feelings or gave in, even in the slightest of ways, their careers were going to be jeopardized.
They were led to one of the stand-by areas and into the dressing rooms. As Nadine started to apologize, the director held his hand up to stop her.
‘Solve your issues first… Kapag tapos na kayo, we can take…’
You can see in both of their faces that they were disappointed in themselves for making this hard on everyone.
‘Don’t feel guilty. Just address things that need to be addressed. You guys saw this coming. Akala ko ba naman pinaghandaan niyo na toh.. Sige na.. magusap na kayo. James, don’t hold back. Not this time. And Nadine, hija, listen okay? And then stop over-thinking…Nothing’s going to change. It’ll just get better…’
The director stepped out, but as soon as Nadine turned around to leave the room she heard a click. At that moment she knew there was no turning back.
‘James ano nanaman ba toh? Hindi ba nangyari na toh dati? Ba’t ba naman kailangan maulit uli? Inayos na natin toh, pinagusapan na!’
‘Because the last time this happened, you got depressed and left me to go to korea for days. You didn’t tell me anything, Nadine. I had to find out from Andre who found out from Yassi when you’ve already left! You could’ve just told me how you felt!’
‘Tell you what? Na may nararamdaman na ako? Tapos ano? Start the same confusion we’re experiencing now?’
She looked at him, his face. There was nothing but pleading. Just a longing for something they both knew was there. But both depriving each one of it.
‘I get that you’re scared… I am too.. But what’s gonna happen if we’re both scared all the time? If we’re always careful all the time? We do things for each other but never say the reason. Feel things but never acknowledge them. Then one thing happens and the next thing I know, you’re not talking to me…’
Her hand combed over her hair roughly, out of frustration. Frustration because she knows he’s right. And she can’t fight that. She doesn’t want to. But she has to.
‘.. And to me, that’s more terrifying than anything I can ever imagine. I’m not one to talk too much, you know that. But if I have to talk for one last time, if I had to say something for the last time, before this ends, this whole reel or real thing ends, it would be this..’
He started to walk to her, trying to catch her panicked eyes. When he finally did, she brought her hands to her face. Making every effort not to give in.
‘Let it happen, Nadine… Please… It’s been stuck in here. In me. And I can’t keep doing it anymore… just please, please, Nads.. let me-’
‘You don’t know that. The scary thing about this whole situation is that what if one day you realize that this isn’t what you wanted-’
He shook his head, trying to stop her from overthinking things again. ‘You don’t know that either. We both know that we’re not just speculating anymore. We both know this is true… And you can’t say it isn’t..’
She couldn’t think of anything to say. All she was doing right now was apologizing to her brain and her heart. For not being able to keep up the facade that she agreed to do once she realized she felt something.
‘Tell me, Nadine.. Just be honest, don’t think about anything but what you feel. What do you feel? This time just stop thinking and listen…’
She looked up at him, he was too close. Too close for comfort. It was like they were being Leah and Clark all over again. The show that started it all.
‘I don’t know. I’m not so sure-’
‘When I do this… What do you feel?… How does it feel?’ Slowly, trying not to startle her, he touched her arm. He let his hand linger there.
Ano ang nararamdaman ko? I don’t want you to let go of me, that’s what..
‘This.. When I do this..’ Just when she thought they couldn’t get closer, he closed the remaining gap between the two of them. Their bodies slightly touching. Less than an inch apart.
‘Or this..’ His other hand wrapped around her waist. Pulling her into him. She could feel the warmth coming from him. Alot of things were happening all at once. She’s feeling too much that it’s making her put her guard down.
Konting-konti nalang, Nadine. Stop yourself.
No matter how many debates she makes with herself, she isn’t winning. Heck, she could barely concentrate!
‘Don’t try and tell me you never and don’t feel anything at all when I do this..’
James let go of her arm. She was about to say ‘Praise God, hallelujah’ but what happened next, felt like the angels were singing.
He cupped her face, which was tilted down, trying her best not to look into his eyes. He drew it up to see the eyes that never failed to make him melt.
‘Now tell me how you feel.. Try and tell me that what I’m feeling is wrong…’
He gulped, nervously waiting for her response. They stared at each other, for what seemed like the longest moment in his life. Then, she finally said something.
They talked. Pinagusapan na nilang dalawa ‘to nung una palang nakaramdam si James. Them. What they were.
It was understood, they had feelings for each other. They felt strong things towards each other. Sometimes, hindi na nga siya maexplain e.
Pero meron. How deep and how far, no one knows. Not even them. But there was some sort of understanding.
Or at least James thought so.
He was now thinking about that serious conversation while watching dance rehearsals for ASAP. Watching? I’m sorry, it was more like glaring. A scowl
Watching her dance now, he wasn’t so sure if that understanding is enough for him.
Sabagay, they both agreed that it was best to keep it hidden for now. Atleast until the whole craziness for their tandem die down a bit. Until they achieved everything they can possibly achieve together with no complications.
So as angry and jealous as he is, he can’t be. Even though there were atleast 4 boys hovering over her.
One of them even had the guts to extend his arm and plant his hand on the wall Nadine was leaning on. Happily enjoying, thinking he had Nadine all to himself.
The nerve of this guy. He thought.
It was hard for him not to go over there and just snatch her away. But he knows she wouldn’t like that. Nadine knows how to handle herself.
“Okay, one more time guys, from the top..” The choreographer said.
He was thankful. Because now she left that spot to go to the centre stage along with one other co-star, Ella.
Ella’s video became viral once more and ASAP wanted the both of them to dance it live.
His bestfriend, Bret was there with him too.
“Moral support, bro” He said. James knew the look on his bestfriend’s face though. It was a look they both shared when it came to the special girls in their lives. The look of a love-sick puppy.
Both girls got along quite well, Nadine was eager to learn and Ella was excited to work with her.
The dance was great too. The only thing James didn’t like was the obvious distracted look on the boys faces when Nadine danced.
The way they lingered in her space during breaks. They were trying to make her laugh and smile.
Not fair, he thought. I just want to go up there and show them that she’s my girl. My girl.
“Easy lang…” Bret said.
He didn’t realize he’s been saying things out loud.
The music started and they danced. You really can’t blame anyone for looking at her. There was something in the way she danced.
It was alluring. Inviting and to be quite honest, sometimes, seductive. But clearly unintentional. The fact that it wasn’t on purpose made it more attractive.
When she moves, so did the heads in the room. She doesn’t mean it. It’s just her. That’s who she is. Her presence is known wherever she is. No matter who she was with.
The music ended and the girls made their way to where James and Bret were sitting.
‘So what did you guys think?” Ella asked.
“That was great. Honestly, amazing. Right, James?” Bret said.
“It was okay…” he mumbled.
“Okay lang?” Ella echoed his answer. That sent the boys subtly praising Nadine. They were all saying how awesome the girls were, especially Nadine.
“Kayo talaga.. di naman.. slight lang” Inside she was praying that they stop. Silently wishing that they can take a hint from James’ face before he goes all hulk-smash on all of them.
She was about to be relieved when they dropped the compliments, but something else came up.
“There’s a new Starbucks that opened sa kabilang street, you should join us, Nads..” One of the boys asked.
“Uhm.. Hindi ako sure eh. Baka kasi tawagin pa nila ako..”
“No.. I checked with direk. Tapos na daw lahat ng prod mo. Tara..”
“Tsaka saglit lang naman, libre ko na.. bilis..” Another one of them said.
These guys don’t know a polite ‘no’ when they hear it. James thought.
“Uhm..” Nadine was running out of palusots.
“Tara na..” This time one of them put his arm around her. He probably thought that James didn’t notice. But even if he did, wala naman siyang kaalam-alam.
“Ah.. Maybe next time. Ayaw ko narin kasing mag coffee, I had my cup this morning..” Nadine tried one last time.
“Edi frapp nalang.. Let’s go..!”
This time it was evident on Nadine’s face that she was getting annoyed. And this didn’t go unnoticed by James.
Alright that’s it.
He tried to be as polite as he can. James pushed this guys hand off Nadine’s shoulder and replaced it with his.
“Guys just go ahead. May gagawin pa kami ni Nadine.”
“Sorry James ah, si Nadine naman kasi tinatanong ko..”
He won’t stop at anything, will he?
Nadine felt James whole mood shifting. She gave him a soft nudge to remind him that no one knows. Not yet. And now isn’t the time.
“I know that, dude. And like I said, may gagawin pa kami ni Nadine. Kaya mauna na kayo.” James repeated.
“Nadine didn’t say anything..”
“But I am. I’m saying something. She isn’t going. Because she doesn’t want coffee or a frapp.” With that James moved his hand from his shoulders down to her waist. He started walking making sure Nadine followed.
They went back to the dressing room, their stuff was being moved to their cars. At that time, there was no one there.
Before Nadine could say anything, he held up a finger and went to close the door. Then locked it.
She just looked at him.
“Anong nangyari dun James?”
When she got no reply, she tried again. “Alam mo, palamigin mo yang ulo mo. Hayaan mo na sila. Hindi naman nila alam, kaya ganun kumilos ung mga yun. They must think that you’re a jerk now. It’s my fault hindi kasi ako naging straight-forward eh… baka-”
“Mahalata tayo.. I know” He said. “The guy doesn’t know how to take no for an answer.”
“Technically I didn’t say no. I was very misleading.”
James shook his head. He isn’t hiding it. He doesn’t want to.
“Ano? Nagseselos ka ba talaga? James naman, you know how I feel. You know na wala kang dapat ipagselos…”
She approached him, closing their far distance. He was just looking at his shoes. Hands in his pockets, thinking to himself.
“Yeah, I’m jealous, Nadine. I’m not going to deny that. They think they can just put their hands on you. I’m jealous, more importantly, naiinis ako. Nakakainis kasi I can’t do or say anything..”
He looked up at her now, his gaze softened as his eyes met the brightness that came out of hers.
“Are you mad?” He asked.
She shook her head no. “If you could’ve, what would you say?”
She couldn’t stay mad at him. She wasn’t mad to begin with. She was just surprised at how adorable this guy looked when he’s jealous.
James smiled now, relieved that there was no tension between them.
“I’d say.. Keep your hands off my girl..”
He said it with a tone she’s never heard before. It had a certain growl to it that she decided she liked. It was hot.
“My girl talaga ha?”
“Yeah… Sakin ka lang. Ayaw mo?”
“Gusto. Gustong-gusto.”
“Good. Because you’re mine. All mine…”
Like I said, she found that tone quite hot. She couldn’t help but pull him in for a kiss.
Her slight roughness surprised him, but made him more eager to kiss back. He cupped her face and tilted it the way he always did. For some reason he felt like he was getting more of her this way.
She was the thirst he can never quench. No matter how long he drinks her in.
Slowly, he backed them up, until her back touches the wall. The cold wall mixed with the heat that was pressing against her made her whimper.
God, if only humans didn’t need air.
But its good that they needed to breathe, things were getting heated up anyways.
“Damn, am I lucky..” James said breathlessly.
“If it makes you feel any better. I was only dancing for you..”
“Oh I know.. What do think distracted me from killing those guys back there?”
She giggled. His humor never fails to be absent, even in the middle of things like this.
“I thought you weren’t watching”
“Oh I was. And let me just repeat what I said.. Damn, am I lucky..”
He took her hands into his and brought it to his lips. He kisses them gently but leaves it scorching. “Mine…”
His hands then pulled her closer. “Mine…”
He started drawing a trail of fire up her arm. Repeating that one word. “Mine..”
The fire was spreading. But not fast enough. She tried to control her breathing, biting her lip.
His eyes fell to her shoulders and kisses them gently, she was sure she was bursting into flames by now.
His lips didn’t leave her skin this time. With his lips, he softly traces her collar bones. “Mine..” he whispered this time.
Those lips led the trail of fire to her jaw up to her cheek. He noticed she was still biting her lower lip. His thumb touched it gently. “Don’t bite that.. That’s mine”
He kissed them, but only for a short while, which made a whimper escape her lips. It made him smile. But she wanted more.
“Mine..”
“Yours..” She says. “All yours. Always…”
And with that he leans in for another kiss. She kisses back and it deepens.
“I can’t believe that’s mine…” He says, again catching his breath.
His fast breathing made her smile. “And that smile too..”
His hands go back to her waist, squeezing them slightly, giving them his famous tickles. Which always sends her laughing.
I was a college drop-out with a 0.9 GPA who lost a scholarship and took seven years to graduate after going to two community colleges. It doesn’t matter how long it takes, everyone blooms differently. Setbacks are not failures and you are more than yesterday. Own your mistakes, quit the inner-loop of shaming in your head, smile big, move on.
Kathryn was always the late one to eat breakfast. Not because she wasn’t hungry, it’s because she takes the longest to get ready. And because she would always wake up late.
It was part of the morning routine in their house. Kathryn would take longer and Nadine would wait at the breakfast table, with a book in hand or writing something down. Either way, she’d wait for her sister.
Kath sat down beside her sister and greeted their mom.
“Ikaw talaga, anak, lagi mong sinasagad yung oras… Ayan tuloy magmamadali ka sa pagkain mo…”
“ ‘Naku Ma, hindi ka pa nasanay… ganyan talaga yan..”
“ Tama si ate, Ma, hindi ka pa nasanay… tsaka lagi naman kaming on time ni ate eh..”
“ Hindi nga pwedeng laging ganyan, Kathryn… makakasanayan mo yan. Mamaya pati sa job interview magawa mo.. or sa trabaho, tapos you get fired—“
“ Ma, did I tell you ate made a friend? Si James?”
That was Kathryn, always quick on her feet. Kilala niya kasi mommy nila eh, easy to distract especially if its about boys, friends, or news.
“Talaga? James.. Teka, pangalan ng guy yun ah… May friends ka palang guys anak?” their mom said, trying to joke around with her eldest.
“ Nagtanong lang ng directions, close na agad?.. Kayo talaga masyado kayong excited..”
“Nanghinggi lang naman pala ng tulong eh, Kathryn naman kung ano-ano pinagsasabi mo…” Her mom said smiling. Knowing her daughters, one is more sensitive than the other.
“Kasama niya kayang maglunch kahapon!! Oh, tama naman ako, diba ate?”
Nadine gritted her teeth, for some reason, her sister would just not let it go. “Kahapon lang un… Watch and see, today mas marami na siyang friends. Ganun ka gwapo? Imposibleng sanay siya na isa lang ang friend niya noh…”
Kat smirked. “Sige… Bet tayo, kapag nasa school siya na naghihintay sayo na sabay kayo maglunch or pumunta sa class, you owe me 20…”
Nadine smiled as she shook her head, “At kung wala siya dun at di nagyaya? Ano naman makukuha ko?”
“The satisfaction of saying ‘I told you so’, medyo matagal mo narin kasing di nasasabi yun eh hehe… O ano? Deal?”
“Deal.”
Nadine’s confidence about their deal was quite high, especially when they pulled up at the school parking lot and there was no sign of James anywhere.
But it quickly faded away when she saw the two boys, Dj and James, waiting for them by the entrance.
“Ha! Amin na.. amin na, pay up!” Kath said, making small jumps as she held out her hand to her ate.
Nadine sighed and smiled as she gave her sister a 20.
“Ako rin, Ate Nads, since generous ka ngayon..” said Dj.
“Relax, Dj, natalo lang ako sa pusta, kaya ayan medyo mayabang si Kat..”
“You lost a bet? About what?” James asked.
“Ah kasi—“ Kath started.
“Nothing! It’s not that important.” Nadine said.
“Okay. Ready to go to class?” He asked.
“Uh.. yeah. Pero hindi naman parehas room natin ah..”
“I know, but we are on the same floor and building. So I figured, why walk alone when I can walk with you?” He smiled as he placed his hand on both of her shoulders, gently motioning her to start walking.
Nadine’s eyes were drawn to the new feeling on her shoulders. It’s not that she doesn’t like it, it’s just…. a first.
Not the first guy who put hands on her shoulders, but the first time she felt safe and comforted, instead of uneasy and weird.
“Guys, nga pala, there’s a small meeting during lunch mamaya for the play. Prof Eric wants to talk to the whole crew daw…” Dj said walking behind them with Kat.
“Okay… We’ll see you guys where then?”
“Sa may harap ng auditorium kami maghihintay… Alam naman ni Ate Nads kung san yun…”
“Alright, we’ll see you there then…”
They waved at the younger ones who were headed to the arts department. Nadine looked over at James. “ ‘We’? Who’s we?”
He looked at her with a confused face. “Us.. Tayo…”
“You can go ahead you know, you have a free period before lunch. You don’t have to wait for me.”
“I know I don’t have to. But I want to.”
He titled his head towards her slightly and smiled. “And besides, two is always better than one.”
Ang korny naman nito, she thought as she looked at him. He was now smiling as he was walking. One hand in his pocket and the other on his bag, like always.
It seems as if he doesn’t have a problem in the world.
When they got to Nadine’s room, he called her before she entered.
“So… I’ll wait for you at your next class, is that alright?”
“James… why are you asking permission with what you do with your time? I’m not the only person in this campus… You can make other friends, I’m pretty sure its not that hard, especially for a guy like you…”
“What do you mean a guy like me?”
Ang layo naman ng tanong nito… Sa lahat lahat ng sinabi ko yun lang ung nakuha niya? She softly stomped her foot. “That’s not the point. What I mean is, you don’t need to wait on me. Go make more friends. Hindi ka ba mabobored kung maghihintay ka lang sa labas?”
“No…” He answered quickly. “I don’t want other people to be my friends, that’s why you’re here. And if you’re worried about me getting bored, don’t, I have tons of things to make time pass inside my bag.”
He smiled after counter-blocking every reason she had for him not to wait. All Nadine could do was sigh.
“Also, I’m not asking permission, I’m just letting you know that I’ll be outside. So you won’t look like you saw a ghost…again.” He said, referring to the other day. “Whether you say yes or no, I’ll still be out there after your class…Okay? Good. Bye!”
Before she could bring up another valuable point, James was walking backwards and waving to her as he walked to his class.
She gave him a small wave and a tight smile. Juicecoloured, ano bang gusto nitong taong ‘to.
Sure enough, just like he said, he was there after Nadine’s second period. Hand on his bag and the other in his pocket. “Hi…” He greeted her as she stepped out the door. “See? What did I tell you?”
He gestured to himself, standing on the same spot like the other day. Nadine let out a small laugh, because she found his face amusing. “Tara na nga…”
They got to the auditorium and sat down with the student volunteers. The professor was there and he was counting the students that were present. Then he started by clearing his throat.
“Hello everyone, unang-una, I want to thank everyone for being eager to volunteer. I’m sure masayang experience ‘to. I’ve been producing the school plays for almost 10 years now. And this university is known for it’s love of the arts and the students that go here. Gusto kong magenjoy kayo at ma-train kayo for this kind of job field….”
Which was true. This university is known for being the most involved when it came to the arts. Whether its with musicals, both local and international, music, literature, dance, instrumental, you name it, this school is passionate about it.
“…many successful talents have come from this university. Writer’s for well-known publishers and novels. Screenplay writers of legendary tv dramas or blockbuster movies. Directors, which some have worked internationally as well. Speaking of internationally… I see we have our newest addition to the school here, Mr. Robert James Reid… I’m looking forward to working with you, I’ve heard many great things about you…”
Ang daldal naman nito ni sir. At kilala pala niya si James? Nadine leaned to her right where James was sitting. “You know him?”
“He was my mother’s batchmate. Actually, they were the best of friends. That’s why I went to this school..”
“This year we’ll be doing a musical that’s been around for many years. It’s known for it’s unique storyline and legendary composer and writer, Jason Robert Brown… We’ll be putting on ‘The Last Five Years’…”
Most of the students were clueless, although some of them sounded excited. Nadine loved musicals, although she doesn’t really want anyone to know that. Her interest in the play showed through her reaction and it caught the professor’s attention.
“You know the play, Miss…?” He asked for her name.
“Nadine, po. Yes po, I admire Mr. Brown’s works. I’m a huge fan of his song ‘Still Hurting’.”
It was James’ turn to be surprised, he watched her as she spoke, then turned to her sister who was right behind him. And before he could ask, Kathryn already knew the answer.
“She knows almost anything. And I mean anything. I’ve started getting used to it years ago…” She joked.
“I’m glad you’re familiar with his work, then. It would be great to have you in this team. And Mr. Reid, I assume you’re familiar with it as well?”
“Yes, prof, I know great screenplay when I see it… Especially if it’s known not just in the states but also internationally…”
“Great then… I would also like everyone to know that I won’t be directing this play, the students will. It would be a great experience if you all would get to try it hands on. I’ll still assign positions of course, judging on ability and the course you’re taking… Is anyone here taking fine arts? Someone that knows their way with a brush??”
Kathryn’s hand shot up as quickly as it could, followed by Daniel’s. Their willingness to take on responsibilty made the professor smile. “I’m assuming you two are friends and would work well together?”
They both nod. “Alright… We got our set designers. Next is…”
James leaned to his left and whispered, “Which one are you going for?”
“I don’t know. Eto na nga bang sinasabi ko, see the play is written already.. I have nothing to do here…”
“But you know the play well… More than you’re letting everyone know. You can go for the musical director…”
Nadine crossed her arms, now realizing what a waste of time this was. “Tsk… I’m not a musical genius, James. I can sing a tune or two, pero wala akong alam dyan..”
“…Mr. Reid, since you’re the only one taking some sort of directing course here, would you mind taking the Director position?”
“Prof, I would really like to give others a chance to-“
“Nonesense, if we want to be sucessful we need someone who already knows what theyre doing. Someone who will take charge and lead… So, yes or yes?”
James looked around at the faces of the other students. They all seem like they want him to take charge, so he nods yes.
“Okay, how about you miss Nadine?..”
“Sir, yun nga po sana ang sasabihin ko, uhm… I take writing in this university, obvious naman po na the play is written, so I don’t think I’ll be able to offer anything else to this production…”
“You’re wrong… you know the play, that alone is something to offer. I know you write, but since you know the material, I’d like you to be stage manager. You’ll have to notify who’s going next and what’s happening… It’s not much, pero, we really need your knowledge of the play.”
Kapag umayaw ako dito baka sabihan niya ung ibang mga prof… tapos ma-bad record ako. Nako delikado na.. Ano ba ‘tong pinasok mo, Nadiiiiiine!!!!
“I mean, HE talked to YOU? Tapos, anong sabi niya? Did he ask for your name? What did you say? Why did he talk to you?”
“Kat, pwede bang dahan-dahan ang mga tanong, para namang interrogation ung ginagawa mo e..”
She was getting ready for bed when her sister barged in her room. Kathryn got a text from a friend at school telling her how her sister talked to the new guy.
“See I told you he needed a friend.. that’s good ate.. that’s a start..” Kath said as she sat down on her ate’s bed.
“Anong start? He just asked for directions to his room. Yun lang… I guarantee you, hanggang dun lang yun…”
“Eh bakit niya tinanong name mo?”
“To be polite siguro… Common courtesy nalang un noh…” She sat down next to her little sister. “Wag mong masyadong bigyan ng meaning. Wala un, I was just being nice to him. Kawawa naman ung tao walang tumutulong..”
“Pero… you have to admit. Cute siya di ba? Ayiiiiiiee.. aminin..” Her sister teased.
“Bulag nalang ang magsasabing wala siyang itsura…” she admitted.
Kath gave her a smile, the kind of smile that she would make when Nadine was wrong about something and she was right.
“Oh.. ano? Sabi ko lang may istura, hindi ko siya type..”
“Asus.. may type ka na pala ngaun ha…”
“Bakit, ikaw nga sige, are you gonna deny na cute si Dj?”
“Hindi..”
“Hindi ano? Hindi siya cute?”
“Cute siya.. pero…”
“Oh.. di mo masagot noh? Ganun rin ung kay James, pero ako I can really say na he’s not my type.. Ung iyo, kaya mo?”
Kath rolled her eyes at her sister’s question. “I don’t have to answer that, pero ung kay James kasi, you haven’t gotten to know him yet.. malay mo kapag mas nakilala mo na siya, malaman mong type mo rin pala..”
She’s never gonna give this up, playing cupid.. Nadine just smiled at her sisters efforts. “Kath, alam kong sobrang laki na ng effort mo.. Thank you.. but, hayaan mo na yun..”
“Sige, papalusutin kita for now.. tulog na tayo..”
Nadine had a questioning look on her face. “Tabi tayo tonight?”
“Yeah, kasi nagyaya sila kaninang manood ng horror sa bahay nila Dj, ayun.. natatakot akong bangungutin eh..”
Nadine laughed at the turn of the conversation. Despite her attempt to give her older sister love advice, Kathryn was still the ading. That idea comforted Nadine, she can still be an ate to her.
The next day at school, Nadine was praying that the whole ‘James’ thing would rest. Sana naman di masyadong career-in ng mga fangirls tong si James. She thought.
Her class started with no disturbance, no one asked her about the new guy. Walang nangulit. She took it as a good sign. Until her 1st period ended and as she walked out the door, there he was.
She glanced left and right. He was just looking at her.
“Hey..” He started, trying to see if she was the same friendly face that helped him out yesterday. “I know it’s kind of weird to ask, but, what’s your next class?”
Nadine noticed a few students watching them now. Ano ba ‘to, live TV??
“Why are you asking?” Mamaya pagtripan lang ako nito eh.. Malay ko ba kung anong ibig niyang sabihin..
“Oh.. because I have a free period next, and since you’re the only one here that actually talks to me, I figured… maybe you’d want to hang?” He said, then he stepped closer, lowering his voice. “You’re the only one that doesn’t stare at me and giggle, personally I find that normal… and I like normal… I could use a lot of normal right now, just someone to talk to without feeling so conscious-“
“So gusto mong samahan kita sa free period mo? Yun ba un?”
He took a few seconds to understand her tagalog. Then nodded and said “ only if it’s okay with you…”
“I don’t have a free period after this, may next class pa ako.. after that lunch-“
“That’s okay.. lunch then?” He asked, still hopeful.
Her eyebrows furrowed as she tried to understand him. Ano bang gusto ng taong to.. “I don’t think you understood what I said, sabi ko may-“
“I did.. you still have another class.. I know.. So lunch?”
“I don’t know.. we’ll see… I might just study.” She started walking, hoping that it would end the conversation. To her disappointment, he followed.
“You’re not gonna eat lunch?”
“I am.. but- teka… why are you following me?”
“Because I’m still talking to you…And you still haven’t told me if you’re gonna eat or what..”
“I don’t need to tell you…” She said, with a sharp tone.
“You’re right.. you don’t.. but I just need a friend… I just want someone to talk to, Nadine. And right now, you’re the only one that’s taken a chance to talk to me…”
He’s so straight-forward. Naisip ni Nadine, kawawa naman, naghahanap lang ng kaibigan… It’s like she can almost hear her sister say, pagbigyan mo naman.
“Okay.”
She turned to face him as she reached her next class. “Okay? So we’ll go to lunch together?”
“Yeah.. I’ll be studying though, if that’s okay?”
“Totally fine, as long as I’m not alone like yesterday..”
“What happened yesterday?” She asked.
“I’ll tell you at lunch… Or better yet, I’ll show you.”
“….Okay”
“Alright… I’ll see you?”
She just nodded at him.
Ilang beses winish ni Nadine dati na pabilisin ang oras sa mga lectures niya. Now, she’s wishing the exact opposite, and yes her wish wasn’t granted. Kung kailan naman gusto kong pahabain ung lecture saka naman napakabilis ng oras…
Before she knew it, it was lunch. And just like last period, he was there, standing outside, waiting for her. Hand in his pocket and the other on his bag that was only hanging on one shoulder.
“That was quick…” He said.
He got a nod in response. So he decided to try again, “so.. where do you usually eat lunch? sa café? Or do you eat out?”
“Usually sa café..”
“To the café then!”
When they got there, it was almost full. Students were hanging in big groups and there was chatter everywhere. They sat in the middle of the place, oddly enough there was one table that was vacant.
When they sat down, that’s when Nadine found out. It was the only table in the café, where everyone sitting had a good look at whoever was sitting down. Kind of like a small pedestal/stage for James.
“Now do you see what I’m mean?” He said, sitting down as if he had no other choice.
“Don’t tell me you’re gonna sit here and let them stare like that?”
“What other choice to I have? I don’t know any other places, that’s why I asked for your company… So I wont have to deal with this.. not alone at least…”
Nadine refused, she stood up and looked around. “We’re not eating here.. let’s go..”
“Where.??”
“Basta.. just come with me..”
She led him outside the school, to the parking lot. She opened her car and told him to get in. The keys stayed in her hand though, she didn’t start the car.
“Dito nalang tayo.. It’s the same thing, atleast you get to eat peacefully..”
“And this is your car?”
“Yup…”
“Okay…I really don’t mind..”
Nadine was confused. What is it with this guy? “Ano bang meron? Do you have a phobia of being alone?”
“Not really.. I’m just used to being surrounded by my siblings all the time.. There’s 8 of us you see, but I’m the only one studying in this school, so I get antsy when I have no one to talk to..”
“Ahh…”
“Plus, do you know how weird it is to have everyone in the room look at you, and then once you start to talk, they immediately stop talking? It’s like I have a disease or something..”
He took a bite of the sandwich he bought earlier. While Nadine opened a container from her bag. She packed a bunch of fruits, which caught James’ attention. He didn’t comment on it, but he took notice.
“Baka naman, they’re just intimidated by you?”
“How? Do I look scary? I mean, you didn’t hesitate to talk to me…”
“I was helping you.. that was different..”
“You still talked to me..” He said, smiling. “You didn’t just stand there and stared..”
“You needed help.. I just did the right thing..”
“Exactly.. Thank you for that by the way..”
“Nagthank-you ka na kahapon..”
James smiled, almost done with his sandwich, “I know.. I’m just really happy, someone talked to me.. especially because it’s you..”
“Huh? What do you mean?”
“I mean, you.. you’re just genuine.”
“Is that good or bad?”
“It’s great.”
“Kat, sige naaaa.. Please??”
“Dj, tigilan mo nga ako… Ano nanaman sumapi sayo, at naisipan mong isali ako sa school play? College na tayo, hayaan mo na mga drama majors gumawa nyan..”
Napakamot sa ulo si Dj sa kakulitan ng kanyang kaibigan. Gusto lang naman nitong sabay silang sasali. Para mas marami siyang chance makasama si Kath.
“Eh hindi ka naman magleleading lady eh. Kahit mga minor roles lang…”
“Grabe ah, etong mukha kong toh? Pang minor role lang?” She said, putting her hand underneathe her chin.
“Okay lang, basta sa puso ko, ikaw ang leading lady…” Sabay tawa siya at sinisiko si Kath. “Oh..aminin mo, the best one so far un!!!”
“Ewan ko sayo… Sige sasali tayo pero props and design lang.. Maganda ring tingnan yun sa mga extra curriculars ko kapag nag apply ako for internship.”
“So.. okay na? Payag ka?”
“Yeah.. sige, try natin..”
Daniel wrote both of their names on the sign-up sheet for volunteers. He smiled, proud of the way he wrote both names.
“Grabe ah.. allergic sa space bar? Ba’t naman magkatabi mong sinulat ung pangalan? May space naman sa baba ah..”
“Obvious ba? Para tayo lang, walang hiwalayan..”
Kath rolled her eyes, her bestfriend was really something else. “Korny mo, pre… Tayo na nga… Hahanapin ko pa si ate..”
“Talaga??? Tayo na?? Yes!!”
Kath threw him a look. And he answered with a peace sign. “Joke lang, joke lang.. sige ka, mamaya mastuck na yang mukha mo, forever ka na nakasimangot….”
“Ewan ko sayo… sasamahan mo ba ako o hindi???”
“Eto na nga oh.. let’s go.. hanapin na si ate Nadine!”
Kath figured out her sister wasn’t in the café, so she texted her and found out where she was. Not knowing that her sister had company. The cute heart-throb kind of company.
She knocked on the window, slightly startling her ate. “Grabe ka naman makakatok…”
“Sorry.. di ko naman kasi alam may kausap ka pala…” Kath smiled, she was glad to see her sister with someone aside from her or her parents. “Hi James!”
“Andyan pala siya? Hi James!” said Dj.
James was surprised at their warm welcomes, he smiled and said hi back. He pointed at Kath and asked Nadine, “Your sister?”
“Yeah.. Kathryn and her friend Daniel.. or Dj as he likes to be called.”
“I guess not everyone here stares, you guys are friendly naman pala e, how come I’ve never seen you guys around?”
“We’re freshmen here, James.. kayo ni ate ang magka-year..” Kath explained.
“Oh cool.. And what are you guys taking?”
“Fine arts kaming dalawa ni Kath… Ikaw?”
“Film Directing. I want to direct movies one day..”
“Talaga? Ate is taking screenplay writing. Partner pala mga course niyo!” Kath said. Trying to set the two up.
Nadine caught on quickly at what her sister was trying to do. She shot her sister the whatever you’re planning, stop it right now look.
“Really? So you like to write?” James turned to Nadine, asking.
“Yeah.. mostly stories ako ngayon, but I’m getting used to writing in script form…”
“Alam niyo, kami ni Kath nag volunteer para tumulong sa school play natin this sem, baka gusto niyong magjoin..”
Kath’s face lit up as she smiled, who knew Dj would come up with such a brilliant idea?
“Tama si Dj, ate! Sali kayo! Kahit mga behind the scenes lang.. Especially you James, you can help directing.. I know the professor in charge!!”
“Kathryn.. masyado kang excited.. movies nga ang gusto niyang i-direct diba? And besides I don’t think James-“
“No, no.. I’d love to help out! It would be great experience and another thing to add to a resume..”
“Ayon oh! Sabi ko sayo, Kat! Tama ako noh?” Dj offered a high-five to James, who gladly returned it.
“Sira, ako kaya nagsabi nun! So you’re game, James?”
“Yeah sure.. just as long as Nadine’s doing it too.”
“Ha?! Ba’t ako nanaman nasali niyo dyan? Kayo nalang.. And why do I always have to do things with you?”
James laughed, she can be real funny when she’s not trying. “We could both use a new environment besides the classroom and your car… Plus, we’d meet new people!”
“Hay nako, James.. Ate’s not too keen on meeting new people.. It’s like she’s allergic.”
“Maka-allergic toh..” Nadine started, but James interrupted.
“I don’t think so… We became friends quickly.. Come on, Nadz… What do you think? You up for it?”
She smiled at her new nickname. Wala naman sigurong mawawala kung susubukan ko diba? And besides, it would look good for an internship or something..
“Sige na nga…”
Kathryn was slightly shocked, she was so sure her ate would’ve said no. It’s the first time she’s ever tried to be involved in something else aside from studying.
“Naku… masaya ‘to. Mageenjoy tayo nito, for sure.” Dj said, happy that everyone’s on board with the idea.
“Me too.. Ate, keep him, James can actually make you try to come out of your shell.” Kath joked.
“Tigilan mo nga ako, Kath. Don’t mind her, James. She’s just joking..”
“Hey, I’m not going anywhere… Tama si Kath, I think I’ll stick with you starting now.”
He said this as he looked straight into her eyes.
No guy has ever done that before. Atleast not to me. Guys would always look away, or try a bit too hard to give a flirty gaze, which usually looks na parang matanda na nahihirapan magbasa. But this time, his look and his words, they were sincere. It’s like gusto niya talaga akong maniwala sa kanya. What is it with this guy?
Matahimik sa bahay ng makauwi si Nadine, she took a peek at her phone before opening the door. 5:30 pm. Mga dalagang kasing edad ni Nadine kasama pa ang mga barkada, pero eto siya, nasa bahay na at wala ng balak lumabas.
She went up to her mom, who was watching some tv series while folding clothes and her dad who was about to fall asleep on the sofa and did mano to them as she said hi.
“Ang ading mo, nak? Di mo ba kasabay?” her dad asked.
“Dad, nagtext po siya kanina habang nasa parking lot ako ng school, magje-jeep nalang daw siya” She explained, she approached their dining area looking for merienda.
“May turon dyan ‘nak”
Uy, favorite ko. Kaso lang.. sira nanaman diet nito. She hesitated, then proceeded to her room to change into house clothes.
She was about to put on her shorts when she heard her sister arriving. Her usual bubbly voice filling up the house.
“Magkasunod lang pala kayo ng ate mo, ba’t di ka pa sumabay sa kotse niya? Nagjeep ka pa tuloy..”
“Ma naman.. gusto ko po ung nagjejeep, nakakasabay ko mga kaibigan ko. Lagi naman kaming hatid sundo ni ate, boring narin pag laging ganun..” Her sister was talking as she made mano to their parents.
“Grabe ah, bored ka na pala sakin, sige, I’ll remember that kapag nagyayaya ka mag mall..”
“Ay.. hehe peace ate, joke lang..”
“Uyyy, turon..” Kath dived in and looked at her ate. “Naku, ate.. halika na.. kunwari ka pa. Hindi naman siguro makakaapekto sa precious diet mo kung kakain ka ng isa.. Healthy rin kaya toh..”
Nadine snickered, “Healthy? Pano?”
“Banana.. Fruits.. Di ba? Healthy, kaya oh.. ayan. Kain na kasi!”
Dalawa lang silang magkapatid ni Kathryn. Pero kahit mag-ate sila, magkaibang-magkaiba silang dalawa ng ugali. Kaya madalas silang mag-away nung bata sila. But now Nadine is, 21 and Kath is 19 they get along quite well.
Pagkatapos nila ng dinner, usually she and Kath do their homework in one of their rooms. Pero today, si Nadine lang ang may konting gagawin, kaya si Kath nagtambay nalang sa room niya.
“Ate, do you remember Kian? Ung guy na nasa kabilang room from your fourth period class?”
She looked at her ate to see if she was listening. Nadine gave her a little nod.
“Well, today he approached me bago ako umiwi, he’s looking for you daw..”
“Did he say why?”
“No.. Pero I think he likes you. I think he wants to ask you out..” Kath was smiling as she said this.
“Ask me out? Hindi siya marunong manligaw?”
“Ate.. Kian is funny and cool, not to mention mistiso..”
“Baka gusto mong ikaw nalang makipag date sa kanya?” She laughed. Her sister loved setting her up with guys.
“Look, if you don’t start dating, tatanda kang dalaga, sige ka. And, don’t you want to date? To fall inlove? To have a guy say ‘I love you more than you’ll ever know, but I’ll spend an entire lifetime trying..’..” Kath sighed as she klutched her phone to her chest, wishing like the hopeless romantic that she is.
“Pffftt.. That only happens in books. Wala ng ganung lalake noh. And besides, ang gusto ko traditional. At kung wala ng ganun this generation, then thanks but no thanks..”
Kathryn’s hopeful face turned into a deadpanned one, she gave her ate the look and Nadine just laughed.
“I still won’t lose hope…” Kath said.
There’s still someone out there. Someone for me. Someone for ate. Someone that will love me and her as much as dad loves mom. Someone who fits me like a perfect puzzle. Someone who will be worth trading a tail for legs, freedom for love, and someone who can fight my battles with me. Alam kong mukha na akong tangga for being such a romantic, but what’s life without a lot of love?
Sabay silang nagpuntang school the next day. Hindi parin binitawan ni Kath ang tungkol kay Kian.
“Ate, give him a chance.. Malay mo?”
“Kath, ang relationship hindi parang sawsawan, nakapag gusto mo lang saka mo gagawin. It’s serious at kung mag kakarelationship man ako, gusto ko ung pangmatagalan..”
Kath shook her head as they stepped out of the car. Then she headed for the school café, which made Nadine confused.
“San ka pupunta?”
“Wala pa ‘kong class.. mamaya pang 10- “
Her explanation was interrupted by a huge crowd of girls shrieking and giggling. Clearly, napakaimportante ng pinagkakaguluhan nila kasi halos mabangga na nila si Nadine.
“Anong meron?” malakas na tinanong ni Kathryn.
“May bagong student.. 3rd year, English major. Galing states.”
Before Kath could ask another question, tinuloy na nila ang kilig-fest nila at naglakad na palayo.
“Ate..”
“Don’t even think about it..”
“Hindi mo pa nga ako pinatapos e!”
“Kath, dalawa lang yan, it’s either yayayain mo kong hanapin ung guy na yun or sasabihin mo ‘ate, ka-year mo na, ka-major mo pa!’.. tama o mali?”
Kath gave out a big sigh, then smiled again. “He’s gonna need a friend… Just try..”
“Imagine how many girls are going for him right now.. Even if I wanted to.. there’s no way I can get through hormone driven girls noh..”
“Ang KJ mo talaga.. maiwan ka na nga dyan..”
“Kath, sasabay ka mamaya ha?” She asked as her little sister walked away.
“Yeah.. text kita!”
Kath proceeded to go to the café, and there waited her friends. Nauna mag-hi si Dj, as always. He greeted her with a smile and a “Hi Kat…”
Kath waved and said hi to the rest. She asked them about the new guy and lahat sila puro chika na half-true lang ang na sagot.
“Wag niyo ngang masyadong i-celebrity yung baguhan.. mamaya maconscious eh, kawawa naman ung tao..” Sabi ni Dj. “Tsaka, hindi naman natin ka-year yun eh.. ba’t ba ang curious mo sa kanya? Crush mo no?”
“ ‘to talaga.. isang tanong lang, crush agad? Grabe ah, ka-year ng ate ko, hinahanapan ko lang siya ng friend.. bakit selos ka?” Kath jokingly asked.
Nagulat si Dj sa tanong ni Kath. Patay, nahalata na yata ako ah… Teka, hindi yan.. smooth recovery lang.. kunwari hindi..
“Selos? Ba’t naman? Sabi mo di mo naman type di ba? Kaya okay lang..”
“ ‘sus..”
“Basta yung type mo, ako lang..” Hirit niya, tapos sinabayan pa ng smile. Kath’s reaction was dead.
“Ikaw ha.. nagiging banat na mga pangasar mo. Ano ba yan, bagong style ng pangiinis?”
Napakamot tuloy ng ulo si Dj. Hindi naman kasi ako ng aasar e, palpak nanaman.
Dj and Kath have been friends for a very long time. Since 3rd year highschool pa sila magkaibigan. Sa buong barkada nila sila pinakaclose. Siguro kasi nasasakyan ni Dj ung kakwelahan ni Kath and si Kath naman nuetralizer ni Dj para di masyadong sumobra yung kakulitan niya.
“Di naman ako nangiinis…” bulong ni Dj.
“Ano?”
“Wala, wala… Pakopya nga ng notes nung lecture kahapon..” He said, trying to change the subject.
“Bakit? Anyare sayo kahapon? Di ka ba nakakopya?”
“Hindi e.. Diba kasi lumipat ka ng upuan..” He was sitting down next to her na, rummaging through her bagpack.
“Ano naman kung lumipat ako? Ako ba ung ink ng pen mo?” Kath said rolling her eyes when he couldn’t find her notebook, so she did it herself.
“Hindi, kaso lang sayo rin ako nangongopya kasi masyadong mabilis si prof e..”
“Ba’t di ka kumopya sa ibang nasa tabi mo?”
“Nakatulog ako e..” Sabay tawa habang nagsisimula na siyang magsulat.
“Mmmmp!” she says as she flicked Dj’s ear. “Ayos ka rin eh noh..”
“Ara- nakaisa ka na ha? Bawal mo na akong saktan the whole day.. quota ka na!”
“Isa pa gusto mo?” Dj just shook his head smiling. He glanced at her ‘pretend-angry’ look, she was biting her lip, trying not to smile. ‘Nak ng… pano ka di maiinlove sa mukhang yan..
“Wag ka kasing lilipat ng seat sa susunod..”
“Hindi ko nga makita ung nasa board, kung mabilis si prof tapos hindi ko pa makita ung slideshow, edi patay tayong parehas.. buti ka pa nga 20/20 talaga ung mata mo..”
“Sabi ko naman sayo, patingnan mo na yang mata mo.. mamaya bulag ka na dyan, di mo namamalayan..”
Kathryn just furrowed her eyebrows at her friend, who resumed copying once he saw the look she was giving. His eyes were on the notebook, but his smile was traveling miles. Seeing this made her smile. He always made her smile. No matter what he was doing. There’s something about him that keeps her light and bubbly as always. Kathryn knows that once she’s with Dj.. the happiness doesn’t stop.
Nadine entered the classroom early as usual, there were only 3 people inside, one of which was Kian. He saw her and said hi right away. She simply waved at him.
Kapag umupo ako lalapitan ako nito for sure. She thought, so with that she put her stuff down and went back outside the classroom. She walked across the small hallway, to the balcony infront of the classroom. This side of the school is usually quiet, given the fact that there were only few students that attend. Today was different.
From out of nowhere there was a crowd of girls, whispering and giggling to themselves. ‘Ayan na paparating na..’
‘San kaya classroom niya..’
‘Lapitan mo..’
‘Nahihiya ako.. mamaya ma-nosebleed pa ako eh..’
Nadine looked around to see what the noise was about. The girls were lingering on the guy, not talking to him, just surrounding him. He wasn’t paying mind to it though. He was too busy figuring out the paper in his hand. He seemed kind of lost. After re-reading the paper in his hand, he glanced up and looked around. And for a split-second, you can see a small plea for help in his eyes.
Before she could say something, the three guys from the room came out.
“ Hey bro.. are you new here?” Kian said, forcing to make his tagalog accent fade.
“Yeah, I can’t seem to figure out my time table. It says English Major, but I’m not taking that, though. I’m looking for the International Film Studies class..”
Kian backed off and played it out with a laugh. He seemed intimidated. So one of his friends pointed at Nadine.
“ ‘dine, ikaw nga maki-pagusap.. na-nosebleed si Kian e..” Then after that he looked at the new guy and said “She’ll help you..”
He gave Nadine a small wave and an impish smile. It’s almost… cute. She thought.
“You’re at the wrong room but on the right floor, your room is at the other end of the hall. Number 310. It starts in 5 mins, so you better hurry. Prof Leyton doesn’t like tardiness..”
His face lit up like a sparkler caught on fire. He started walking towards the direction Nadine pointed out, but after taking 4 steps he turned back around.
“Thanks… Nadine..” He looked at her straight in the eye and reached out to touch her arm gently. “That is your name, right? Or am I wrong on that too?” He talked softly, almost as if it was only intended for the two of them.
“Yeah..” was the only thing she could say.
He smiled at her answer, this time it was different, his smile spelled ‘accomplished’ in some way. After nodding at her answer, he proceeded to his room. He started running, then turned backwards to face her, still running towards his classroom. “James!! I’m James, by the way!!!”
All she could do was grimace and then smile. He turned back around and before she could catch herself, a small giggle already escaped her lips. What just happened.
