Chapter 7
Beep beep beep…..
"Good morning, bahbhe Anya! How's your morning? Don't skip your breakfast. Take care at work, and see you later," Dave messaged in the morning.
Anya woke up to the beep of Dave's message.
"Ohhh, Dave, you make my day so sweet! Oh my gosh, I'm going to be late!" Anya said as she hurriedly got out of bed, forgetting to reply to Dave.
At Work
"Hey Anya, you're late! Hmmpp, you've got a boyfriend now, huh? I bet you were out on a late date," Christine teased Anya.
"Ohhh, I'm so tired! I got stuck in traffic," Anya replied, rolling her eyes. "Oh, Christine, you're crazy. Don't tease me like that! You know he's practically a stranger to me. I'm not serious about him, and we've agreed—no hurt feelings if we decide to break up." Anya said defensively.
"Mmmhhpp, that's how it starts, sis. But I'm sure you'll fall for him eventually!" Christine teased, laughing as she hurried off to her department, carrying documents from another office.
"You're impossible, sis! Oh, wait, we're not in the same subject or class anymore. Bye!" Anya said as she rushed to her department office.
At School
"What?! I thought this project was due tomorrow!" Anya exclaimed to her classmate, Mae, in their literature class.
"It's a surprise deadline for us. We need to finish this project quickly. Let's head to the café and work on it. I didn't bring my laptop, but we need to get this done as soon as possible to meet the requirements for our grade," Mae said.
"Oh my goodness! How are we supposed to do this? I still have a class… I'll have to skip it now. Alright, let's go. We'll have to work overtime and submit it before 7 PM," Anya said, feeling exhausted and overwhelmed by the sudden news.
They rushed to the nearest internet café near their school to find available units for their work.
"Oh my, Mae! I hope this café has enough space and computers for us to research and finish this project quickly," Anya said, wishing for some luck.
"Stay positive," Mae replied as they entered the café. "Do you have two available units side by side for at least two hours? We might extend if we need more time," Mae asked the café attendant.
"Yes, ma'am. Units 24 and 25 are available," the attendant replied.
"Thanks!" Anya smiled at the attendant as they made their way to the assigned units and quickly began working on their project.
Two hours left at the internet café.
Anya checked her phone and saw the battery was empty. She rushed to the internet café to ask for help with printing her project.
"Can I have one copy of each from Unit 24, printing 10 pages in total?" Anya asked.
As the door opened, Dave entered with an unfamiliar classmate. Anya glanced at him for a moment, then quickly turned around, pretending to be busy so he wouldn't notice her.
"Oh my goodness, for such a big university and so many internet cafés here, why did he suddenly come here? I'm sure we're bound to run into each other," Anya whispered to herself.
Dave's classmate asked the attendant for two units, and the attendant directed them to the units at the back of Anya's line.
"Anya… Hey… What are you doing here? I thought you were in class," Dave approached her and said.
"Huh, Dave! Hi… ummm… I'm just finishing up my project. I need to submit it before 7 PM," Anya shyly replied.
"I see. Anyway, this is my classmate, Bern. He invited me to play some games. I've got some spare time. Where's your unit?" Dave asked.
"Hi, Bern… I'm here in Unit 24," Anya replied and waved at Bern.
"Anything I can help you with, Anya?" Dave asked.
"No, I'm okay. You should go to your unit," Anya said.
"Hey, bro, let's go! We don't have much time, and I'm so excited," Bern urged.
"Alright, just approach me later, Anya. I'll go ahead," Dave said defensively.
"Okay, thanks!" Anya said, then whispered to herself, "What the heck is this coincidence again? Our world is so small. Why did we suddenly run into each other? This is not important, and I'm not with Mae right now, so I could just leave… hhhhmmmfff." Anya sighed.
Hours left.
Anya was busy typing and researching for her project when Dave approached her.
"Excuse me, Anya. I brought some burgers and juice for you and your friend. It's past 6 PM, and I'm sure you're a bit hungry. I noticed you were so busy with your research that you didn't realize how much time had passed for dinner," Dave explained.
"Huh, oh gosh, 6 PM? I have only one hour left!" Anya replied, double-checking the time and feeling exhausted. "Oh, Dave, thanks. Did I disturb you during your games while you were worrying about me?"
"Oh, I finished the games. Bern left ahead because he had class, and I don't have any more classes for this time. I thought I should come back here and bring you this food. Maybe I can wait for you at the back of your unit. Are you sure you don't need any help?" Dave explained.
"It's okay, no problem. I'm almost done. Right, Mae?" Anya said, glancing at her classmate, Mae.
"Yeah, yeah. Oh, Dave?" Mae said, then paused. "Thanks for the food. You're so kind, Anya's lucky to have a boyfriend like you," Mae teased Anya as she took some food from Dave.
"Mmh, you, Mae!" Anya smiled shyly.
"Alright, girls, I'll be in the back if you need anything. I'll be playing games. See you!" Dave said with a smile before heading to his unit.
Anya finished her project and was ready to submit it. She approached Dave to leave the internet café.
"Excuse me, Dave. I've got to go inside the campus to submit my project. The deadline is at 7 PM, and I'm in a bit of a hurry," Anya explained.
"Oh, sure. I'm just finishing up now, it'll be done in 2 minutes. I'll wait for you outside the gate, okay?" Dave said.
"Sure!" Anya replied.
"Bye, Dave, and thanks again for the food! Hurry up, Anya," Mae said as she headed out first.
"Bye for now. Thanks again," Anya said, then hurried to follow Mae.
Anya thought, "Thanks, Dave, for the treat. I can't believe I went short on my allowance. You saved me this time. Poor Anya." She glanced at Dave as she left.
Dave was waiting outside the gate of the campus while Anya was heading out after submitting her project right on time. She was happy to leave the dean's office.
"Anya, I'm here!" Dave shouted lightly, waving his hand.
Anya approached Dave, who was standing and waiting for her.
"Do you feel good?" Dave asked her.
"Yeah, I'm good, thanks again. I was so nervous earlier. If I couldn't submit it, I would've been surprised," Anya said, feeling tired.
"Relax. We can go eat at the café before you go home," Dave suggested.
"Oh, no, I'm full, no thanks. I just want to go home and sleep early. I feel a little bit tired," Anya replied.
"Okay, sure, it's fine. We can just stay for a while and get some fresh air before you head to the bus," Dave said.
"Sure, no problem," Anya agreed.
"Anya…" Dave looked into her eyes.
"Yes?" Anya looked into his eyes, surprised, and felt her hand slide into his palm.
"Can I hold your hand?" Dave asked.
"Huh!" Anya blushed. She felt a mix of emotions and her heart fluttered at that moment. But she didn't pull her hand away. Something about holding his hand while walking felt nice.
They walked in silence down the street.
"Anya… bahbhe… thanks…" Dave said, blushing as he looked into her eyes.
"Huh, mmmhh, welcome. Oh, Dave, I have to go, the bus is coming," Anya replied, removing her hand. She couldn't bear the feeling of the electric connection between them.
"Anya, come on, don't be silly... is this your first time holding hands with a man? Why do you feel so shaken?" Anya thought.
"Ahh, Dave, bye," Anya said quickly.
"Take care and goodbye. Please message me when you get home," Dave said with a hint of sadness on his face. He waved as Anya got on the bus.
At home
Beep beep beep...
Anya Hello, bahbhe, are you home? (Dave's message)
Anya looks at her cellphone and replies: Yes, thanks. Going to sleep now. Good night.
While Anya struggles to sleep, the feeling from earlier lingers. She misses him and wishes she could hold his hand again.
Come on, Anya, sleep. You have work tomorrow. What time is it now? Anya slaps her face softly to shake off her thoughts.
Chapter 8
At work
Beep beep beep...
"Hello bahbhe, I'm not in school right now. I have to go to the province with my family for just 3 days. Maybe I won't have signal there. I'm sorry in advance if my message gets delayed. After that, it's okay. We can meet on Sunday and go to the mall to watch a movie. Is that okay? "(Dave's message).
Anya looks at her cellphone and thinks, "Thanks, I'm not feeling okay to see Dave this time. It's good that he's in the province.
"Okay, Dave, see you soon! Enjoy your trip." – Anya's reply.
Sunday
Beep beep beep…
"Bahbhe, good morning! See you later at 1 PM. I can't wait to see you in the cinema hallway." – Dave's message.
"Alright, see yah, Dave." – Anya's reply.
At the mall
Beep beep beep…
"Hello bahbhe, I'm here in the cinema hallway. I already bought 2 tickets. I'll wait for you here on the bench, okay? See you!" – Dave's message.
Anya didn't reply because she was in a hurry to get inside the bus, which was very full, and she couldn't sit properly. "Why so busy today? Is there an event here in Davao? Why are there so many people waiting outside the station? Tsk, tsk…"
Anya arrived at the mall and walked into the cinema hallway. Dave was glancing at her, mesmerized by how beautiful she looked. Her fit body in skinny jeans, and he was surprised by the dress she wore when they first met in the park. Her long, wavy brown hair looked stunning, and she wore something simple, but it highlighted her beauty. She wasn't slim but not fat, and her appearance exuded independence and freedom.
"Hey, Dave…" Anya smiled at Dave, who was mesmerized by her.
"Huh, how are you, bahbhe? Anyway, I got the tickets, and the movie starts in 45 minutes. We have time. Let's go buy snacks while waiting." – Dave said excitedly.
"Sure, anyway, you got the tickets. It's my treat for snacks. I'm going to feel shy if you treat me all the time." – Anya said.
"No, it's my treat." – Dave said.
"No, Dave!" – Anya said, insisting.
"Oohhh, okay bahbhe, alright. Heheheh." – Dave smiled, jokingly.
"Mmmhh, we've got plenty of time. It's okay, we can buy snacks at the supermarket downstairs. I got my favorite snacks there. It's cheaper, and I can save money." – Anya suggested, thinking practically.
"Sure, let's go bahbhe!" – Dave said excitedly
At the supermarket
Dave grabbed a basket for their snack groceries. While Anya was looking for her favorite snacks, she passed another aisle and saw Marlon in front of her, actually bumping into her. Anya suddenly felt nervous.
"Anya, hi!" Marlon said happily with a big smile while looking at her.
"Huh, Marlon?" Anya said anxiously as she saw Dave coming toward them.
"You look beautiful now. Who's with you?" Marlon said, glancing at Anya.
"Ha huh, hmmm…" Anya said, unsure of what to say.
"Hey, bahbhe, we're getting this one." Dave approached Anya, bringing the snacks and looking at both Marlon and Anya.
"Ohh, Anya, is this your boyfriend?" Marlon said, a bit irritated.
"Ha huh, mmhhh… Dave, this is Marlon, my workmate. And Marlon, this is Dave." Anya said anxiously, not knowing how to approach the situation.
"Dave, bro, Anya's boyfriend." Dave extended his hand to shake Marlon's.
Marlon: "Nice to meet you." He shook Dave's hand quickly and glanced at Anya. "We'll talk another time if you're free."
"Ohh, come on, not now, Marlon." Anya thought to herself.
"Huh, mmmhh, yeah, sure." Anya said to Marlon, wanting to leave right away.
Marlon whispered to Anya and said, "You move on easily, huh? Not even two months..."
Dave looked confused. "Anything wrong, Anya?"
Marlon said, "No, I'm just teasing her. We're close friends at work."
"Let's go, Dave." Marlon excused himself. "We'll go to the counter." Anya said, feeling nervous and anxious.
Marlon glared at the couple with eyes full of jealousy and sadness.
At the cinema lobby
"Anya hurried as they started to fall in line for the entrance".Dave said, and quickly held her hand as they walked fast.
Anya was a bit shocked, feeling a mix of emotions that she couldn't explain. "Ohhh, Anya, come on, what's happening to you when he holds your hand?" Anya whispered again to herself.
"Huh, mmmhh…" Anya just smiled and blushed. While Dave took the tickets out of his pocket with one hand, the other hand still held Anya's. They walked together until they reached their seats, and once seated, he never let go of her hand. Anya felt awkward in the moment.
Bahbhe… are you okay?" Dave whispered into her ear while they were waiting for the movie to start.
"Huh, mmmhh, huhhh... yeah, I'm okay," Anya said, her heart pumping so fast. Her hair brushed against her ear, and she felt a shiver. Anya whispered again to herself, "Ohhh, goodness, I can't move. What's happening? I feel like a fish that can't swim and is starting to drown. Why am I feeling this way?" Anya fought with her emotions.
The movie started to play, and Dave gently rested his head on Anya's shoulder while holding her hand tightly.
"Annnyyyaaaaa… My goodness… I feel so overwhelmed, I can't breathe. Is this feeling cold or hot? Ohhh no…" Anya fought with her thoughts at that moment.
"Ohhh, Dave, why are you like this? You always surprise me. And my feelings… they're so confusing. My heart is pumping so fast," Anya whispered to herself over and over again.
The movie was playing so fast, but Anya still couldn't move while Dave kept glancing at her.
Dave whispered into Anya's ear, "Bahbhe, would you like to start eating our snacks?"
"Huh, ahhh, huh… sure, mmmhh," Anya said, blushing deeply.
"Ohhh, thank goodness the cinema is so dark. I feel so awkward. This is so embarrassing, Anya," she whispered to herself again.
Anya stayed silent beside Dave, eating her snacks while watching the movie.
"Ohhhh, Anya, I can't even taste these snacks properly, and I can't understand the movie's flow. You're so silly, Anya! Where's your presence of mind?" she thought to herself, shy and lost in her thoughts.
After eating, Dave held her hand tightly and rested his head on her shoulder again. Anya's heart raced all over again, and she felt as though she couldn't breathe throughout the movie.
When the lights in the cinema came on, signaling the end of the movie, Dave lifted his head from her shoulder and glanced at her.
"Anya, let's go. The movie was so funny and nice, right?" Dave said with a smile.
"Huh, haahhh, yeah… nice," Anya replied, unable to speak promptly. Even her tongue felt tied.
"Ohhh, come on, Anya, why are you feeling this way?" she thought to herself, smiling briefly at Dave.
Dave held her hand as they walked out of the cinema.
"Dave, can I go to the CR?" Anya asked.
"Yeah, sure. I'll wait for you in the hallway," Dave said with a smile.
"Alright, thanks," Anya said as she quickly removed her hand and walked to the CR.
"Ohhhh, inhale and exhale, Anya… so baffling," she thought to herself, trying to calm down.
After Anya finished in the CR, she saw Dave glancing at her, his eyes shining and his face so bright it showed just how happy he was. Anya felt nervous, almost like it was the first time they'd met, her feelings inexplicable. The silence lingered until Dave finally spoke again.
"Anya, would you like to have a proper dinner?" Dave asked.
"No, Dave, I'm full. Thank you. Maybe next time. I need to go home early; I haven't finished my assignment," Anya replied, feeling a bit sorry as she excused herself.
"Alright, thanks, bahbhe. I'll walk you to the bus station," Dave said with a smile.
"Okay," Anya replied with a shy smile.
While they walked, Dave held her hand tightly, as though he had no intention of letting go. Anya felt shy and couldn't stop blushing.
"Dave, I'm going to take this bus," Anya said as they approached the station.
"Okay, take care, Anya. See you tomorrow," Dave said, then quickly kissed her cheek. "Good night in advance," he added with a warm smile.
Anya glanced at his shining eyes, which seemed to hold so much emotion. Her heart raced faster than it ever had before. She felt a mix of guilt, love, and awkwardness—emotions so overwhelming that she couldn't fully process them.
As the bus started moving, Anya felt as though she was walking on clouds, barely able to feel her feet touching the ground.
"What is this, Anya? Are you… in love?" she murmured to herself, gazing at her reflection in the bus window. "Hayyyy… Anya!" she sighed.
Meanwhile, Dave stood by the station, watching as the bus drove away. He waved his hand and whispered to himself, "I miss you, Anya."
Chapter 9
Beep beep beep…
"Good morning, Bahbhe! How's your morning? Don't skip your breakfast, and take care on your way to work. Bahbhe, I can't be with you today. I have a review session—I'm sorry, I forgot to tell you yesterday. I have my final exam tomorrow, so I need to study in the library and head home early. I'll see you tomorrow after the exam. See you again. Miss you, Bahbhe," Dave's message read.
"Ohhh, Anya, why is Dave so sweet? Are you falling for him now? How many nights have you stayed awake because of thoughts of Dave? Even in your dreams, it's all about him. And now, as you wake up, it's still Dave…" Anya whispered to herself.
"I'm okay. Sure, Dave. See you tomorrow, and same here," Anya shyly replied to his message.
At work
"Hey, Sis Anya! Ohhh, you're so early today, huh? Mmmhh, you're blooming. I'm sure you had a date last night. Mmmhh, is my sister in love again?" Christine teased Anya.
"Hahaha, you're so silly, Christine. I just woke up early and feel fresh. You're overthinking things," Anya said, feeling shy.
"Ohhh, come on, admit it! You're in love with your sweet new boyfriend. Anyway, Sis, I saw Marlon earlier. He told me you've already forgotten about him, and he looked so sad. Well, I told him maybe you're still moving on," Christine said.
"Huh! Mmmhh," Anya replied, avoiding eye contact.
"One more thing, Sis. He said he wants to talk to you again," Christine added.
"Ugh, Sis, I've got a headache now. I can't talk about him," Anya excused herself.
"Well, who wouldn't have a headache when they're in love now and don't have feelings for Marlon anymore? I guess he better move on," Christine laughed.
"But in fairness, Sis, if you asked me to choose between them, I'd pick Dave for you," Christine added happily.
"Ohhh, why would you say that, Sis?" Anya asked, busy arranging her table.
"Mmmhh, Dave is such a gentleman—simple, humble, and genius. Marlon is kind too, but he's too witty. And honestly, you two just don't seem meant to be," Christine said.
"Alright, let's get to work. Enough chitchat before the boss comes in, hahaha. See you later at lunch. You better share your nice viand with me!" Anya replied with a smile.
At the University
Riiing, riiing, riiing! The university bell echoed across the campus.
"Oh, sis, where's Dave?" Christine asked, looking around for him.
"Huh? Oh, he went home early to review for his final exam. I really hope he passes and graduates this October," Anya replied as they walked toward the next department.
Feeling thirsty, Anya stopped at the water fountain to take a drink, while Christine waited nearby. A guy approached Christine from behind, walking slowly.
"Christine… where's Anya?" he asked.
"Marlon…" Christine said hesitantly. "Huh? Don't you have class?" she added, glancing toward Anya, who was still drinking water.
"My professor is in a meeting, so we don't have class for this subject," Marlon explained while looking around. His eyes landed on Anya by the water fountain. "Oh, there she is," he said softly.
Without hesitation, Marlon quickly walked over to Anya as she finished drinking. Christine stood nearby, feeling a bit anxious.
"Hi, Anya," Marlon greeted her with a smile.
"Oh… hi," Anya replied, glancing at Christine with a questioning look as if to ask what was happening.
"Anya, do you have time to talk? I think there's still some time before your next class," Marlon asked, his tone earnest.
"Huh? Umm… sure," Anya said reluctantly. Then, turning to Christine, she added, "Let's go, Christine."
"It's okay, Anya. I'd like to talk to you alone, just for a bit, in the canteen," Marlon interjected.
Christine looked at Anya and said, "Sure. Sis, I'll head upstairs to our next class. I'll see you there."
"Huh? Mmm…" Anya tried to signal Christine to stay, but Christine gave her an encouraging nod and left.
"Thanks, Anya," Marlon said, walking beside her as they headed to the canteen.
Breaking the silence, Marlon asked, "Anya, what would you like to eat? It's my treat."
"No, it's okay. I already had my snacks earlier. No thanks," Anya replied, glancing nervously at the people around them. She whispered to herself, feeling anxious about being seen.
"I'll just grab some juice," Marlon said as he left to buy drinks.
While waiting, Anya opened her books, pretending to be busy while her thoughts raced.
Marlon returned and placed a juice in front of her. "Here's your juice. I… I don't know how to start, but… why did you break up with me without giving me a proper reason? Did I do something wrong?" Marlon asked, his voice filled with emotion.
"Huh… hmm…" Anya hesitated, struggling to find the right words.
"Marlon, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. You're kind, and I liked being with you, but… there's something I can't explain. It hurts me too," Anya said, her voice trembling.
"What is it, Anya?" Marlon asked softly.
"Right now, I can only say that maybe we're just too different. Sometimes I couldn't understand you, like the way you're so open and free with your friends. It made me feel… uncomfortable. Not jealous, but I couldn't handle it. I've thought about it so much, but I just couldn't deal with it. I'm sorry," Anya explained, her voice filled with sadness.
"Is this about Dave? I guess it's only been a week since we broke up," Marlon said, his voice tinged with pain.
"Huh? I… I don't know," Anya stammered, feeling nervous.
"What do you mean you don't know? Do you love him?" Marlon asked, searching her eyes for an answer.
"Marlon… I'm sorry. I can't answer that now," Anya said, tears streaming down her face.
"Anya… I understand now. I hope you'll be happy with your new boyfriend," Marlon said, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.
"Can we still be friends, Anya?" Marlon asked with a faint smile.
"Marlon… thank you," Anya replied, managing a small smile.
The university bell rang again.
"I've got to go, Marlon. See you around. Thanks," Anya said, standing up.
"Sure, Anya. Let's shake on it," Marlon said, extending his hand.
"Thanks, Marlon," Anya said, shaking his hand.
"Take care. I'm happy for you now," Marlon said, smiling as he watched her leave the canteen.
Anya walked away, leaving Marlon to wait for his next class.
At the Room
"Hey, Anya, are you okay? What did he say to you?" Christine approached Anya.
"We're fine now. My mind is just so empty, sis," Anya replied.
The professor walked into the classroom.
Chapter 10
Beep, beep, beep.
"Hello, bahbhe, good morning. Wake up! I'm about to take my exam. Wish me luck! I'll see you later after your class." – Dave's message
"Alright, good luck to you, Dave," Anya replied, feeling blank from the emotions of the previous night. She had just woken up, and her mind couldn't function properly.
At the University
Anya didn't have class for her third subject, so she was standing by in the lobby when a guy approached her.
"Hey, Anya," the guy greeted her.
"Oh, Anthony! Wow, I didn't see you! What a miracle! We're not classmates anymore, huh? I didn't see you at work either," Anya said with a smile.
"Oh, I'm on training," Anthony replied. "So, how's Dave?" he teased Anya.
"Haha, you!" Anya laughed. "Mmhh, he's good," she smiled.
Just then, Dave walked through the gate and saw Anya and Anthony in the lobby, both smiling at each other.
"Hey, guys!" Dave approached them.
"Hey, bro! How are you?" Anthony greeted Dave.
Anya felt shy and embarrassed. "Gosh, what a small world! This university is so tiny," Anya whispered to herself.
"Yeah, I'm good, bro. Bahbhe, don't you have class?" Dave asked, smiling at Anya.
"Huh? Ahh, yes," Anya replied, whispering to herself, Oh my goodness, why did he call me bahbhe? She blushed.
"Ohhh, you two now?" Anthony said, shocked and smiling widely.
"Yeah, bro, and thanks to you," Dave replied happily.
"Alright, Anya. Huh, hehe, I'll go ahead. I have class now. Bye, Anya," Anthony teased her.
"Hey, bro, I'm going ahead," Anthony added, smiling at Dave and giving him a playful tap on the shoulder.
Anthony is still cool, Dave smiled.
"Babe, do you have class after this?" Dave asked.
"Yeah, I have one left. How about you?" Anya replied.
"I'm done. I don't have any more. I feel so tired from the exam. Can we eat?" Dave asked.
"Ohhh, I'm full. I just had snacks earlier with Christine before she went to her class," Anya replied, giving an excuse to Dave.
"Okay, after you go, I'll just head to the internet café for some games while I wait for you," Dave said.
"Yeah, sure. No problem…"
University bell rings
Riiing, riiing
"I got to go now. Bye, Dave. See you later," Anya said as she left. Dave also went to the café for some games.
After class
Anya waved her hand while waiting in the lobby of her class. Then, Dave came to Anya to get her bag and books.
Anya was shocked. Ohhh, Anya, why does Dave always make you feel surprised, and your heart races again? Anya whispered to herself.
While Dave held her hand tight, he asked, "Are you okay, bahbhe? Are you good? Your hands are so cold."
Anya replied, "I'm fine. Don't worry"
"I just feel like I'm walking on air, and I have butterflies in my stomach. Something feels strange," Anya whispered.
Dave said, "I hope I passed the exam. The questions were so hard."
Anya said, "I'm sure you did. You're a genius."
Dave said, "No, it was really hard… hehe."
Anya said, "Ohh, Dave, the bus is coming." She quickly grabbed her bag and books from him and rushed onto the bus.
Dave waved and said, "Bye, bahbhe... Good night." He waved his hand as she boarded the bus.
Chapter 11
Beep beep beep...
Good morning, babe. How's your morning? See you later, and take care. Good luck with your work. Safe travels.
Dave sent this message early.
At the university,
"Oh, something strange today," Anya said. "Why are so many students not busy roaming around? Hmm, and Dave… I didn't notice him now."
The university bell rang, signaling the end of the class.
Anya rushed out to see if Dave was waiting outside. She roamed around the gate, wondering if he was staying far or getting food.
"Where's Dave? He's supposed to be here. He's not even late. I can wait at least 15 minutes here…" Anya whispered, staying in the waiting area by the gate.
After 20 minutes, Anya decided to go home.
"Is something happening to Dave? I should have called later when I get home. I'll call him then," Anya whispered to herself.
Message from Anya to Dave:
Hello, Dave. Are you home? I went straight home after my class. I didn't see you, so I decided to go home. I just arrived. Message me when you get this.
An hour later, Anya checked her phone and decided to start her assignment early.
She had missed 5 calls from him—none could be reached.
Anya sent another message:
Hi, Dave. Please message me ASAP if you receive my message. I hope you're okay.
Hello, Dave. Is something happening to you? Message me.
The next morning, Anya woke up and checked her phone. No message had been received from Dave.
Anya wondered what had happened to him. Why hadn't he messaged her yet?
"Dave… Dave… I'm getting worried. What happened to you?" Anya whispered to herself, then hurried to go to work.
Anya was puzzled about what happened to Dave. Even though work was still occupying her, she hadn't received any messages from him.
Anya rushed to the university after work, hoping to find her friends Samuel or Roel, who might be able to help her understand what happened to Dave.
Arriving at the finance department of the university,
"Oh, did you pass or fail?" Anya overheard other students talking.
"Oh my goodness, yesterday was the exam result day, and I didn't even notice!" Anya thought anxiously, heading to the dean's office to check the results.
"Oh my goodness, he's not here! He failed... Oh no, come on, Dave!" Anya said to herself, feeling disheartened. "I have to look for Samuel to see if he has any news about him."
Anya looked through all the rooms to find Samuel.
"Hey, Samuel, have you heard from Dave yesterday?" Anya asked.
"I saw him yesterday rushing out of school and calling his phone. I guess his mom was calling. It seems like a family matter. His family is very strict; they expect him to graduate this October," Samuel replied.
"Oh, huh…" Anya was shocked to hear this from her friend.
"I guess you should just wait for him. Maybe he'll contact you. I'm sure he's okay. That's just how he is," Samuel said.
Thanks, Samuel. I've got to go," Anya said, feeling sad.
"Oh, Dave, I hope you're okay. Please message me so that I can ease my worries," Anya whispered to herself.
Anya messaged Dave many times
Hi Dave, it's me. I hope you're okay and staying strong.
Hello, Dave. I hope you've eaten and had a good sleep. It's been weeks since I received a reply.
Hi Dave, good morning. I hope you're okay. Message me if you are. I'll wait for you, and I hope I can help ease your pain.
Two weeks later, Anya felt sad and emotionally drained about Dave. She didn't know whether she was angry or just heartbroken from being ghosted for almost a month.
Anya kept herself busy with work and studies, even though Dave hadn't been around for a month.
Chapter 12
At work:
"Hello, sis. I haven't seen Dave around for a few weeks. Are you okay? Did you break up?" Christine asked, wondering.
"Sis, I don't know. I haven't heard anything from him. Maybe we're over. He hasn't even messaged me or anything," Anya replied sadly.
"Oh no, are you crying? Sis, maybe you need to forget him. Quick relationships don't last long," Christine said, trying to cheer Anya up.
"Mmhh, let's not talk about it. I don't want to think about him," Anya said.
"Oh, we have a long quiz later. You're sharing with me, right?" Christine asked, trying to change the topic.
"Sure, hahaha," Anya replied with a smile.
Anya's thoughts:
"Oh, Dave... it's almost been three months. Maybe today will mark the end. Why did this happen? Just when I started feeling something with you," Anya thought sadly.
At the university…
Riiing riiing—the bell rang.
Anya rushed to go inside the classroom for her next subject, which was in the next building. Something caught her attention—a familiar guy roaming around.
"Oh, Dave I feel you..." Anya thought as she noticed a lady embracing him.
Anya checked to see if it was really him, and she was shocked. "Oh my goodness," she whispered to herself, her heart racing and her hands shaking. She felt jealous when she saw him embrace someone, especially when it was one of her classmates—not like this.
Anya pretended not to notice them and walked straight to the lobby where she usually had class. But Dave quickly rushed toward her.
"Anya, wait…" Dave called.
Anya pretended not to hear, feeling tears welling up in her eyes. She had mixed emotions—whether she was happy, disheartened, or angry. She didn't know how to feel anymore, especially seeing him with someone else. She rushed to her class, and Dave stopped when their friends saw him and comforted him.
At the classroom:
"Oh, Anya, why are you thinking of him? Come on, you have to listen. Remember, you have a quiz after this," Anya whispered to herself, distracted.
"Oh, what if he's waiting for me later? Or maybe it's time to break up with him. Oh, come on. Why are you thinking this? Aren't you feeling guilty or disheartened for him?" Anya continued whispering to herself.
After the quiz:
"Anya, you got a passing score! Now, what happened? Are you okay?" Christine asked.
"I forgot, hehe. Next time, I'll get a perfect score," Anya replied, offering an excuse.
"Oh, sis, I'm going home early. I have a headache. Don't wait for me later, okay?" Christine said.
"Alright, take care and get well soon. See you tomorrow," Anya said.
Riiing riiing—the university bell rang…
Anya whispered to herself as she peeked out from behind the gate, her eyes nervously scanning the surroundings.
"I wish he wasn't waiting for me outside. I can't face him," she muttered.
She glanced around cautiously. "Oh, thank goodness he's not here. I can go home now," she sighed in relief, but her chest tightened.
"What's happening to me?" she thought. "I feel sad… my heart misses him." She shook her head. "Come on, Anya, you should be happy. This is what you wanted—he's not around anymore."
Anya whispered these words to herself, trying to convince her heart, while a figure approached her from behind. She didn't notice him at first, lost in her thoughts.
"Anya!" a voice called.
Her breath hitched. "Oh my gosh," she thought, shivering. "Am I hearing his voice, or am I just imagining it?" She shook her head and kept walking, pretending not to notice.
"Anya, wait!" the voice grew louder.
She stopped abruptly, turning to see him. "Dave…" she muttered, her shock evident as he hurried toward her.
"You're heading home?" he asked, slightly out of breath.
"Uh… yeah," she replied, feeling her heart sink. She noticed he looked a little slimmer than before, and it stirred emotions she tried to suppress.
"Anya…" Dave started, his voice soft as his eyes locked onto hers. He hesitated, clearly nervous.
"Yes?" Anya said, barely above a whisper. Her thoughts raced, wanting to reach out and hug him, but her pride held her back.
"I'm sorry," Dave finally said, his tone filled with regret. "I know it's been months… I didn't mean to disappear like that."
Anya's lips trembled. "No, it's okay. I understand. Don't apologize," she said, the words coming out completely opposite of how she truly felt. Inside, she wanted to cry, to scream about how much it hurt being ghosted for so long.
"I didn't mean to hurt you," Dave continued, his voice breaking. "It was… family matters. I had to handle some things."
"You don't need to explain," Anya replied softly, though her mind whispered, After this, it's over.
But before she could say anything else, Dave stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her.
"I've missed you, Anya," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm sorry. I love you so much."
Her heart pounded wildly as if a thousand birds were singing in unison. She felt as if the world lit up around her, fireflies dancing in the night. For a moment, all her anger and sadness melted away in his embrace.
"Anya, my phone broke, and all I had was my SIM card. I've been grounded, which is why I couldn't come here. I failed my exams, and things just got worse at home," Dave explained, his tone heavy with regret.
He continued, "Yesterday, my sister visited the house. When she found out what happened, she talked to my parents and helped me re-enroll for the next semester so I can retake the exams. That's why I'm back at the university now—to sort everything out early. I tried to reach you, but I couldn't. I'm so sorry, bahbhe. I've been worried and haven't been able to sleep, thinking about you. I know you were worried about me too. And I was scared—scared you'd break up with me because of the agreement we made."
"Shhh," Anya interrupted gently. "I understand. There's no need to explain. I'm fine," she said, staring into his eyes. Her heart melted at how honest and sincere Dave's apology was.
Dave's voice softened. "I'm sorry. I got carried away by my feelings. Anya, I missed you so much… and I love you," he admitted.
"Mmm… stop it," Anya said, her cheeks flushing red as she glanced around. "People are passing by and staring at us. It's so embarrassing. They might think something's going on," she added with a shy laugh.
Dave chuckled, wiping a tear from his eye. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't even notice. I was just thinking about us, and for a moment, it felt like we were the only ones here."
He smiled warmly and handed her a large gift bag. "Anyway, here's an early Christmas gift for you."
Anya blinked in surprise. "Oh, you didn't have to do this. I don't even have anything to give you."
"Don't worry about it," Dave said with a laugh. "Let's start walking. We can take our time and enjoy this moment, bahbhe."
"Yeah, sure," Anya replied with a smile.
As they walked together, Dave spoke again. "Anya, maybe we can't see each other for the rest of this month temporarily. I'll message you more often once my classes start next semester. For now, it's hard to explain things to my mom, but my sister said she might buy me a new phone tomorrow. I'll contact you as soon as I get it, okay? Then we can plan when to meet or go out again."
"Alright, I understand. No worries," Anya said, smiling with full understanding of the situation they were in.
"Anya, I'm sorry I can't stay with you for too long. After this, I have a curfew at home. It seems my parents are being strict with me because I failed. For now, it's just temporary, okay? I'll try to explain everything to my mom and hope she understands. Thank you, bahbhe, for being so understanding. Okay?" Dave said, apologizing for his situation while holding her hand tightly, as if afraid to let go.
"Sure, as I said, I understand. The bus is coming, so I've got to go," Anya said softly.
"Sure, bahbhe. Take care," Dave replied. Then, leaning closer, he whispered in her ear, "I miss you and love you," while smiling warmly at her.
"Mmm… Dave, my hands," Anya said shyly, noticing how tightly he was holding them.
"Bahbhe, I miss you and love you," Dave repeated, his voice gentle but firm, as if unwilling to let go unless she replied.
Anya blushed, surprised at her own words as she said, "Alright… I miss you too, and I love you."
Dave's face lit up with a smile. "Thanks, bahbhe. Take care," he said, finally letting her hands go.
Anya jumped onto the bus, glancing back to see Dave still waving his hand until the bus disappeared from view.
As the bus moved, Anya sat quietly, battling the whirlwind of emotions inside her. Everything had happened so fast, yet her heart felt light and warm. She caught a glimpse of her reflection in the window and noticed her shy smile and flushed cheeks. Blushing, she couldn't help but laugh softly to herself.
She opened the gift bag, unable to wait until she got home. Inside, she found a beautiful teddy bear with the words "I love you" written on it. Overwhelmed, she couldn't believe how her feelings had changed. Her heart, once filled with anger, now admitted what she had been denying—she had fallen for him.
"Dave, thank you for the lovely gift. I really like it. Take care and good night," Anya messaged while on the bus going home.