Feeling lost and questioning her life, Aiah sets off on a solo trip in search of answers. She never expects that this journey will lead her to a deep, meaningful connection that changes her forever.
We arrived at the hostel 15 minutes later. I got off and tried to unbuckle my helmet when suddenly, she was right in front of me, unbuckling it for me. I removed my hand and stared at her, trying to understand her expression. I couldn't read her mind, but there was an intensity in her eyes.
She took off the helmet from my head and said right to my face, "Wag kang sumasama kung kani-kanino lang. It's not safe." Then, she turned her back on me and started walking towards the front door of the hostel. I was taken aback and stood still for a few seconds, processing her sudden concern. Her unexpected protectiveness left me confused but oddly touched.
I ran after her to thank her. "Hey, thank you for the ride and for letting me tag along to have dinner." She kept walking, not saying anything. I reached my dorm and shouted, "Colet!" She stopped and turned to face me, her expression a mix of confusion and anger. I gave her a cute smile and said, "I said thank you."
For a moment, she just stared at me, her expression softening slightly. Then she said, "Whatever." Tumalikod siya and continued walking. Name niya lang pala yung Colet, pero hindi naman siya makulit. She's grumpy, mysteriously grumpy.
I went inside the dorm, noticing that only a few people were there. Some were already asleep on their bunk beds, while others were on their phones. Maybe the majority of the guests went out to party. I grabbed my toiletries, pajamas, and towel, then headed to the restroom to take a shower. I washed off the day and thought to myself, not bad for my first night.
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The next day, I woke up way too early to the sound of birds chirping. I felt relaxed right away. My first night sleeping in a dorm with a bunch of strangers was not bad at all. I stayed in bed for a few minutes, trying to prepare myself for the day ahead. I still had no idea where I should go today, but the uncertainty felt more exciting than daunting.
I got up, washed my face, and brushed my teeth. Everyone else was still asleep. I took my journal, pen, and iPad at iniligay ko sa aking tote bag. I headed towards the pool area. I sat down on a bench by the pool, feeling the warmth of the morning sun. I closed my eyes for a few seconds when I suddenly felt a presence beside me.
When I opened my eyes, I saw a golden retriever had come up and sat beside me on the bench. It was probably the owner's dog. He was so cute that I couldn't resist petting him. Suddenly, he jumped off the bench and started walking around the pool area, exploring his surroundings.
I opened my journal and started writing. The dog barked so loudly that it seemed like he was signaling it was playtime. A sliding glass door opened, and he ran towards Colet, who had just gotten out of her room. Wait, she had her own room by the pool? The dog was so happy to see her that he hugged her, and it seems like they were very close. She might be staying here for quite some time now.
I was just observing. Colet was playing with the dog, and she had a smile on her face. It's such a contrast from her grumpy demeanor last night. Her smile seems so natural and light, which really suits her well.
