Kaisha's Pov
I was standing by the bookshelves, skimming through the titles when my fingers landed on a book about architectural sketches. Just as I was about to pull it out, another hand grabbed the same book.
I blinked and looked up—Evan.
“Oh,” I said, letting go of the book.
He chuckled, flipping through the pages. “Mukhang maganda nga ‘to, pero if you’re looking for something na mas beginner-friendly, I’d suggest this one.” He pulled out another book and handed it to me.
I took it, checking the cover. “Understanding Architectural Forms?” I read aloud.
He nodded. “It’s a mix of theory and practical application. Hindi siya heavy, so it’s a good read if you’re exploring architecture on the side.”
I appreciated the suggestion. It wasn’t every day that I met someone willing to help me navigate something I loved but wasn’t allowed to pursue.
“Thanks,” I said sincerely.
“No problem,” Evan replied, returning the first book to the shelf.
Before I could say anything else, a familiar voice interrupted us.
“Hey, Kaisha!”
I turned to see Rain walking toward me, a bright smile on her face as she waved.
I smiled back. “Rain, come here!”
She reached me in a few steps, her eyes flicking between Evan and me. Her smile didn’t fade, but there was something in her gaze—curious but calm.
I gestured between them. “Rain, this is Evan. He’s the one I met at the university field while I was painting.” Then, without much thought, I added, “Evan, this is Rain, my suitor.”
For a second, Rain seemed caught off guard. Then, a slow, almost smug smile appeared on her lips.
Evan, on the other hand, looked a little surprised but quickly composed himself and nodded. “Oh? Nice to meet you.” He extended his hand.
Rain shook it, her usual confidence never wavering. “Nice to meet you too, Evan. Kaisha mentioned you.”
Evan smirked slightly. “Only good things, I hope?”
Rain shrugged, giving me a teasing glance. “Hmm, let’s just say she’s very selective about who she talks about.”
I rolled my eyes at her obvious teasing. “Don’t start.”
Rain chuckled before eyeing the book in my hand. “What’s this?”
“Evan suggested it,” I said, showing it to her. “It’s a good read for beginners in architecture.”
Rain raised an eyebrow at Evan. “Oh, so you’re a walking art and architecture reference book?”
Evan chuckled. “Not really. Just sharing what I know.”
Rain nodded, but I could sense the subtle shift in her tone—playful, but with a hint of something else.
I nudged her. “Huwag ka ngang magtanong na parang ini-interview siya.”
She put a hand on her chest, pretending to be offended. “Grabe, wala pa ngang isang minuto ‘tong tao sa harapan ko, sinasaway mo na ‘ko?”
Evan laughed at that. “I feel like I walked into something.”
Rain smiled at him, then turned back to me. “So, study date pa rin tayo? Or may architecture class ka na rin bigla?”
I shook my head, laughing. “Of course, study date pa rin.”
