Title: "Loving yourself, and love others. Even it hurts"

"Why don't you, let all your frustration run rampage here in this place? No one can hear you, your free to throw whatever, rock, sand, You name it."

"Its okay, I don't need to."

"But why? You've been crying in silent since 30 minutes ago, alam kung masakit, pero mas sasakit yan kong di mo ilalabas sama ng loob mo."

"Siguro sa kakaiyak ko ng tahimik, di ko magawang sumigaw O, may tapon na kung ano jan. Kasi since I was a kid crying in silent is just... Fine to me."

"Pero mas maganda parin ilabas mo lahat ng hinanakit. Kasi ikaw rin masasaktan sa gingawa mo."

"Thanks for your concern, pero tuwing umiiyak ako nag tahimik na sanay na ako. Well there are still the times I think about, what if I... Just a moment, for a little bit, I can just shout and let it all go." I look at her and smile.

"But, crying all alone in silent for years hurts my lungs! I can't breath, I can't shout!, I can't say I needed help, all I can do is cry. Cry it all. So that it won't hurt and will just go away." I stood up and I can't feel my legs.

She help me stood up and she's looking into my eyes. Holding her tears.

"Sometimes, jess, it's okay to cry in silent but if you make it your habit, di mo na ito maiiwasan at masasanay kang umiyak nag-palihim. Dahilan para makasabi ka nag-masama sa sarili mo." I continued. At siya nakikining.

"Doesn't hurt alot?" She finally said it.

"It's does hurt alot. More than I could even imagine. Ispin mo iyon, sobrang dami ng problem and your just a kid, not knowing how much this world is cruel to us. Maybe this is what we got for being greedy." I hold her hand while she's crying.

Natawa ako ng kaunti ng tumolo yung sipon n'ya.

" Don't laugh I'm crying for your sake.

But please just this once, isigaw mo, ilabas mo lahat lahat na nanjan. Lahat nag mga naipon mong sama ng loob. "She pointed at my heart and I just smile at her. And shake my head.

And look at the beautiful sea. With the moon on the sky with the stars.

"I don't need it jess, at hindi na ako interesado. I'm hurting myself by crying alone without someone comforting me. I'm not going to lie about that, kasi tumagos rin sa isipan ko, paano kung may tao nga, pero di naman ako pinapasin kahit gaano na ka obvious na masakit na, na di ko na kaya, na gusto kong may taong tutulong sakin. "

"But jess, how can I cry into someone's shoulder when no one's there for me!?" My tears are starting to gather up in the corner in my eyes.

"At ayon na nga. Kung iiyak man ako, dapat tahimik lang kasi wala namang akong makausap tungkol dito. Kung di yung unan ko lang." I feel the breeze touching my hair and feeling the sand into my foot.

"Pero crying in silent can comfort me. Just me, trying to comfort myself that I'm brave and strong no matter Am I. When your hurt, and you know you can't handle it. Don't beg for the people who's not even interested to hear you. Because they can be the reason why it's even more painful. "she tighten my hand.

This sweet girl deserve the world.

" Jie, I'm glad that I'm the one who sees you. You've been hurt huh? Its hurts right? You can give me some of them."I really laugh my ass out when she's so serious when she's said it.

"Me too I'm glad the I meet you, jess. Funny enough, I've been waiting for someone who's going to listen to me talking about my painful experience. Looks like the god give me a reason to live again for this moment to happen before passing away still carying the burdens my past self did."Bumontong hininga muna ako bago nag-salita.

" But you know I didn't even regret that dying like this, na ni minsan hindi pinaginggan and puso, kahit palagi nalang ang isip na nanalo. "

" But now, na nakilala kita. Maybe it's really that bad to die like this. I can't go on with this hated on my heart. I need someone to just sit and hear me out to slightly feel my soul lighten up."

"Thank you jess for hearing me out even tho, we only meet like this, Hahaha, for 21 years. Finally someone I can talk to... Don't regret being your self, stand for your own good don't listen to the people who's dominating you."

"Live your life, like there's no tomorrow don't be like me, I failed to find myself even I comfort it. I still can't find the one piece of glass to complete my soul we I was still alone. But know I found it. Jessary. I won't forget about you. I love you." Her crying face says it all, and for one last time she hug me so tight before closing my eyes.

Seeing the sun raising above the sea.

Yeah... Jess is my sun and I'm her moon, she's the one who's I been looking for this past 21 years.

Now I feel free...

_______________

Comforting your self is good, but sometimes we need someone on our side to listen and comfort us.

Choose your friends wisely and never ever put yourself into resistance. Love yourself first before others.

Title: "Jinx of Rivalry"

     I always knew that I'm smart, that I'm always at the top, and I'm always the number one. I do well in acads, sports, and any other extra curricular activities.

"How can you say that without Humans, the world would be a better place? well, in fact Humans are the most advanced species that have ever been on Earth, Ms.Yuri, we are also intellectual. In Science, our intellectual capacity is far more beyond animals. Who's more capable of living in this world as I may say? it's us, Humans."

Ilang beses naba akong umiirap? Hindi ko na ata mabilang kung ilang beses na akong napa-mura, napa-hasik, at nagpa-ikot ng mata. Bakit talo ako ngayon sa debate na 'to? I know that my side is in favor of the topic that's given to us, bakit hindi ko man lang ma-defend ng maayos ang side ko?

Or could it be that I am intimidated by his presence?

Days passed at parang hindi pa rin natatapos ang rivalry namin ni Lance, simula noong nag-debate kami parang nakikipag-competensiya pa rin siya. Kahit sa oral recitation, kapag nag-taas ako ng kamay at naka-sagot, susunod siya at mag-ta-taas din ng kamay para siya naman ang sasagot sa next question.

Palaging gano'n ang nangyayari, at nasasanay na rin ako. He's a threat to me, if he wants to fight me in recitation and debate in terms of acads ay lalabanan ko siya fairly. I am not the number one of our class for no reason.

"The Philippines owns the Scarborough (West Philippine Sea), sir" I answered the question given to us, proudly.

"You're just claiming that the Philippines owns Scarborough, where are your support for that?"

Somehow, I hated the way he smirks at me when he knows that every time he answers— he irritates my soul.

Narinig ko ang singhapan ng ilan kong mga kaklase, ang iba pa ay parang na-excite kasi may away na naman ang magaganap between the two top students. Kahit sa simpleng recitation hindi niya ako tinatantanan, napa-kagat na lang ako ng labi sa inis at pinandidilatan siya ng mata. Ano ba naman itong tao na 'to? hindi naman siguro mali ang ni-advance reading ko kagabi.

"The Philippines owns it, as it's part of the economic zone of the Philippines, Mr. Lance. Hindi mo ba nababasa ang mga issue tungkol dito? Even the Japanese support the Philippines, because they know that our beloved country owns it."

Tuwang-tuwa na naghiyawan ang mga kaklase ko na sumusuporta sa akin, at ang kaninang mga inaantok ko na kaklase ay masisilayan mo na ang saya sa mga mata kasi pamatay oras daw kaming dalawa. Nag-hiyawan at kung ano pang pinagsasabi, animo'y para kaming manok sa isang tari.

"Beloved..." kung anong bulong nito sa hangin, "But the Chinese Sea Border also owns it, that's why the Chinese fight for their sea dahil sakop din ito ng border nila."

Nag-batohan ulit kami ng sagot as usual, parang araw-araw na ata to nagaganap.

Walang araw na hindi niya binabara ang mga sagot ko, walang araw na hindi ako naiinis sa kanya at naiirita sa pagmumukha niya. Hindi ko gusto ang pagm-meddle niya sa lahat ng mga sagot ko, at sa kung anong ginagawa ko, pero kailangan ko patunayan sa sarili ko na mas magaling ako sa kanya.

"Ito yung notes ng mga lesson na na-miss mo noong absent ka, Yuri." I was shocked when the most annoying person in class handed it to me. Nag-absent ako for a few days, because I was sick at plano ko pa lang manghingi ng notes sa mga kaibigan ko, but unexpectedly Lance handed his notes voluntarily. I didn't ask for his help or anything. "Huwag mo na ibalik," dagdag pa nito.

"Paano ka, Lance?" my forehead crease, because it seems so weird that this person is helping me.

"I-I u-uhm I have my own notes..." he said then leave me dumbfounded.

It's a peaceful day, hindi ko alam kung bakit natapos ang araw na 'to na hindi kami nag-sagutan.

Now is the last subject, Philosophy.

"Class, how can you tell if it's already love?"

I remain quiet and didn't even raise my hand, this is so cliche. I can't even define what love is. Is this really necessary? Damn, Philosophy.

"Okay, Lance, how can you tell?"

Nag-taas pala siya ng kamay?

"Love is when you can't stop looking at her, even if you know she'll never look back," I can feel a pair of eyes staring at me intently, so I look back to see who it was only to find out it's Lance. He locked up his eyes to mine. "And even if it's rare that she'll look back at you, you need to enjoy every second that counts when that happens. Her stare might drive my nervous system crazily— like a disease called tachycardia, but I know I can't get over it as I am a prisoner of her love."

I blink to break the connection of our eyes, then look away as if nothing magically happens within the 10 seconds eye contact.

"You'll do everything, even if they loathed you, because it's the only way they would notice your existence. All I wanted to ask before was her attention, only for a minute, or even just for a second. Right now, how can I tell someone to love me back knowing that she thinks of me completely just her rival."

"Just her rival..." this is the jinx of rivalry I guess? you can't have me, not even a chance.

In this unexpected place, we called our second home— he found love only to be rejected.

Title: "Unexpected Love in the Halls"

From the first time I met him, it was an accident, but one I couldn't be more grateful for. His presence was captivating, with his pale skin and that cocky smile. He wore his glasses with a charm that covered his long eyelashes, and his tall build gave him an air of confidence. But it was his gentle presence that truly drew me in. He was perfect in every way, and I couldn't help but feel drawn to him, despite knowing I shouldn't.

February came, bringing with it a mix of jealousy and guilt towards my friend, who also had feelings for him. I wrestled with these conflicting emotions, trying to suppress my own feelings to avoid hurting her. But as the new school year began, fate seemed to have other plans. He became my classmate, and I found it increasingly difficult to ignore the pull towards him.

Our interactions were initially awkward, with him seemingly avoiding me. But as time passed, we found ourselves talking more, sharing jokes and personal stories. It was during one of these moments that he surprised me by inviting me out for a meal. Despite my worries about my friend's reaction and the potential for rumors, I couldn't resist the chance to spend time with him.

As we sat together, the conversation flowed effortlessly, and I couldn't help but be captivated by him. He paid for our meals, a gesture that made my heart flutter with affection. Walking home together afterwards, I felt a warmth in my chest that extended beyond the chilly evening air.

Despite the whispers and questions from others, our friendship continued to deepen. We spent more time together, and I found myself growing more attached to him with each passing day. But amidst the joy and excitement of our budding relationship, there lingered a sense of worry and guilt about my friend's feelings.

Yet, when she approached me with understanding and hate, a weight was still on my shoulders. Our friendship didn’t remain intact, continuing to explore the connection between me and him with fear of judgment.

And so, we continued to talk and spend time together, our bond growing stronger with each passing day. Despite the uncertainties and challenges that lay ahead, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected journey that brought us together.

As we go on through the complexities of our friendship, I found myself falling deeper in love with him. His voice became a soothing melody in the chaos of my thoughts, calming my fears and uncertainties with every word he spoke. Whether we were discussing schoolwork or sharing our dreams and aspirations, his voice had a way of making me feel understood and cherished.

His smile, oh his smile. It was like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day, brightening even the darkest of moments. Whenever he smiled, it was as if the whole world lit up, and for that brief moment, everything felt right. It was infectious, and I couldn't help but smile back every time I saw it.

His gestures spoke volumes, conveying emotions and feelings that words couldn't express. From the way he brushed stray dust from my things to the gentle touch of his hand on mine, each gesture was filled with tenderness and affection. It was in these small moments that I felt truly seen and valued, as if he was silently telling me that I mattered.

The way he treated me was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. He was kind, considerate, and always put my needs above his own. Whether it was holding open a door for me or offering me to let him carry my things when it seems heavy, his chivalry never failed to make me feel special. It was in these simple acts of kindness that I knew he cared for me deeply, and I couldn't help but fall even more in love with him.

His gentlemanliness was matched only by his intelligence. He was smart, witty, and always had a way of challenging my thoughts and opinions. Our conversations were filled with lively discussions, each one leaving me in awe of his intellect. It was refreshing to meet someone who could stimulate my mind in such a way, and I found myself hanging onto his every word.

But perhaps what I loved most about him was the way he talked to me. He listened attentively, never interrupting or judging, but instead offering thoughtful insights and perspectives. He made me feel heard and understood in a way that no one else ever had, and for that, I was grateful. It was in these moments of genuine connection that I knew he was someone special, someone I wanted to hold onto forever.

As our relationship continue, I found myself falling deeper and deeper in love with him. Every aspect of who he was, from his voice to his smile to his gestures, only served to strengthen my feelings for him. He was more than just a friend or a classmate; he was the person I wanted to spend the sometime of my life with.

And so, as I reflect on our journey together, I can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. Gratitude for the chance to meet someone as amazing as him, gratitude for the love and affection he has shown me, and gratitude for the hope and excitement that our future together holds. I love him more than words can express, and I can't wait to see where life takes us next.

Title: "“Roleplay World””

In this cruel place we live in, we all have something that we call “our escape from reality” and for Lili it was the roleplay world. A whole new world where she can be a different person. In the real world she was an outsider, a friendless and lonely being devoid of love from both her surroundings and her family. Much to her surprise, when she first started using a roleplay acc she made a lot of friends, as she made an alter ego “Yugami” and with this she started interacting with different people. She entered group chats, in which they talked about their interests, games, anime, theories and many more. As she was talking, a person suddenly replied to her, calling her “Distortion”. Yugami who was confused at the moment asked why the other person called her that.

L: “Yugami in Japanese means distortion.” the other person said.

Y: “Ohh, wow I didn’t know that. I wonder what your name means…Luca, wait, let me search it up.” Yugami said as the other person waited for the answer.

Y: “Found it! Yours means, “the bringer of light”. Woah, that’s a nice meaning.” Yugami said with excitement on her face.

L: “Never really thought about searching for the meaning of my own name, now I know.” Luca stated.

The night ended with them exchanging their goodbyes and finally going offline, meanwhile Yugami was up all-night thinking of that interaction as it felt new and different to her than the other interactions, she had with everyone online. 

The next day, as she opened her acc she saw a new message request from someone familiar. It was Luca, the guy from last night. As she opened the message, she saw the message asking if she wanted to join the groupchat he had created. Yugami was open to this idea, she immediately replied saying that she wanted to join. 

A few minutes later she was added to the groupchat along with other people, Luca then greeted everyone, welcoming them to the groupchat. There they all felt welcome and ultimately became friends with each other. A few days later, Luca added something to his stories, and it was him playing the guitar. Fascinated by this, Yugami immediately chatted with Luca and praised him for it.

Y: “That was so cool.”

L: “Really? Not a lot of people likes it.”

Y: “Seriously? It was so cool.”

L: “Thanks, that means a lot.”

Y: “Do you have some more? I wanna listen.”

L: “Oh no I don’t. I’ll record one again for you next time.”

Y: “Really? I’ll be waiting for it.”

After that conversation, Yugami then proceeded to talk about a certain game in the gc. On which Luca caught on. Luca exclaimed that he didn’t know this game at all, Yugami was stunned as this was a very popular game in her country. She then asked if he wanted to play it with her. As Luca replied with a “yes”, Yugami then proceeded to guide Luca inside the game, where she taught him all the basic things a player should know. Luca showed great enthusiasm so much so that he started to show her combos and talked about the lore of the game itself. Yugami on the other hand already expected this to happen, as Luca was a very curious person, a person who likes to learn and read things, a person who likes to talk about theories and stuff. 

While Luca liked asking questions, Yugami liked answering them, and if was the other way around, Luca also likes explaining and talking about it. With this, started a duo in the game, where Luca stands as guard to Yugami who uses long range attacks. This became Yugami’s favorite part of the day. She couldn’t wait to get home and talk with Luca, they started talking about their dreams and what happens to them in real life. 

Up next to that was their usual game, Luca so eagerly protecting and supporting Yugami who deals most of the damage. As they grew close Luca stopped calling her Distortion and now calls her by her RP name “Yugami”. After some time, Luca also started singing for her by sending voice messages. Which she treasured all so heartedly. Both their birthdays went by with them singing and greeting each other. 

Yugami showed him a picture of a scenery, after which she found out that Luca likes looking at those sceneries. Yugami then started sending more as each day went by. It eventually occurred to Yugami that she was falling in love. She started being happy again, she finally had a reason to smile in this world that she deemed cruel. Until her worst nightmare happened, Luca messaged Yugami, Luca will be starting college, and will now leave the RP world. As she sit there shocked while reading the message, tears started falling from her cheeks.

L: “I’m starting college and I’m afraid I need to quit this world now.” Luca’s first message appeared destroying my rationality.

Y: “Can’t you just…take a break? You don’t have to quit. You can just go online even once a week or even once a month…Please Luca don’t leave…” her heart was now being broken by someone whom she doesn’t know his real age, where he lives or what he even looks like.

L: “No, I also need to start my life. Hanging out with you all this time was wonderful. You were an amazing person. I’ll never forget about you. My dear Yugami.”

Y: “I understand. You were also an amazing person. Luca.”

L: “I guess this is goodbye…You were an amazing experience.”

Y: “Goodbye, Luca.”

As Yugami cried in real life Luca’s last line kept reapeting in which she broken heartedly said “And you were my everything….”

Luca [Last online 5 years ago.]

Title: "CONCLUSION OF LOVE"

A straightforward yet extraordinary love tale started at the most unlikely of places in the center of SG University, where the smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the air and student talk could be heard everywhere.

Meet Power, a biology major who is diligent and motivated. Her days consisted of lab work, lectures, and eating McDonald's in the busy college cafeteria. Despite her belief in the value of hard work, she never expected to fall in love while managing her academic aspirations.

Power was looking for an empty table one typical afternoon as she balanced her plate of food and caught sight of Denji, a kind and laid-back computer science undergraduate. For an instant Power's heartbeat raced with excitement as their eyes locked.

Power had no idea that Denji had been observing her for some time. He was impressed by her modest confidence and dedication to her studies. He would often find himself thinking about talking to her during his dreams, but he never got up enough courage to do it.

But their destiny had different plans for them.

In an attempt to find a seat, Power walked up to Denji's table and couldn't help but grin genuinely and nod naturally. Power accepted, putting her tray down across from him, looking surprised yet fascinated.

The weather, classes, and the newest activities on campus were the topics of casual talk that quickly developed into something more. They laughed over funny incidents, found common hobbies, and exchanged stories about their childhoods. Despite only having recently met, it seemed as though they had known each other for years.

Power and Denji discovered in the days that followed that they were attracted to one another like magnets. Their laughter rippled through the corridors as they took leisurely walks about campus, read together in the library, and shared meals at the cafeteria.

Their deep friendship and mutual appreciation served as the foundation for their modest yet genuine love. The unexpectedness of it all astonished them: two strangers brought together by fate who found comfort and friendship in one other's presence.

However, as their emotions grew, Power and Denji encountered questions and concerns. They questioned whether their love would be able to endure the challenges of college life, the requirements of their individual majors, and the unknowns of the future.

But as time went on, they grew more confident in the strength of their relationship. They had faith in the ability of love to go past obstacles, restore their conflicts, and transform the ordinary to the spectacular.

Power and Denji found themselves alone at their favorite location—an isolated bench overlooking the school pond—one breezy evening as the sun set below the horizon and the campus began to calm down. They talked gently but firmly as they confessed their love for one another, their hands trembling and hearts full of hope.

And when they set a passionate kiss on one other, everything around them appeared to vanish, leaving only the two of them—a landmark to the wonder of discovering love in the most unlikely of places.

A biology student and a computer science student, united by a love that overcame all obstacles, met each other among the mess of a busy college campus where paths connected and intertwine

Title: “In the Dreamland”

Ahera has this series of dreams where she is spending time with someone, someone she doesn't know. This person is her lover in the dream world. Spending time with her, reading books and traveling together. The problem is that she can't see this person's face.

Even the sound of his voice seems to disappear whenever she wakes up.

Kung ganon din naman pala lagi mappanaginipan ko edi sana di nalang ako gumising atleast masaya ako dun.

Ahera heaved a sigh sadness become visible in her face.

"Ahera, ok ka lang ba? Bigla ka nalang nalungkot dyan." Lea asked her, one of her friends.

"Ok lang ako, pero diba nasabi ko na sa inyo yung lalaki sa panaginip ko?"

"Oo bakit? Uhm what if totoo pala syang tao dito and our dreams are connected?" Ahera asked eagerly wanting her friend to feed her delusion.

"Ahera wag mo paasahin ang sarili mo, oo may meanings ang dreams pero don't come to the point na iisipin mo na yung lalaking nasa panaginip mo ay totoo. Hidni mo nga makita yung mukha nya eh." Lea reprimanded her.

Although walang problema na isipin nya yung napapanaginipan nya, ayaw nyang umasa sa wala ang kaybigan nya. Hindi porket naniniwala ito na lahat ng panaginip ay may kahulugan, maniniwala na sya na connected ang panaginip niya sa ibang tao na hindi nya kilala.

"Sinasabi ko lang naman eh" Ahera said with a pout. Di manlang ifeed yung delusional side ko hmp.

"Hay nako, halaki na ihahatid na kita sa bahay mo kulang ka lang sa tulog dali tayo dyan."

"Parang tanga, wag na kaya ko na umuwi mag isa. Alam ko namang may gagawin ka pa."

"Sure? Sige ha uuna na ako, malalate na din ako eh. Bye ingt ka ha? Baka ani mangyari sayo patanga tanga ka pa naman."

"Umalis ka na, nanglalait pa eh." Ahera waved goodbye to her firend as they parted ways.

As she was walking she encountered a lot of couples, ang iba pa nga ay may dalang bulaklak. Kelan kaya ako magkakameron non?

Whili mindlessly walking hindi nya napansin na may lumapit na sa kanyang lalaki. Nagulat na lamang sya ng bigla syang nahila ng kung ano mang pwersa.

"Gago, sumabit pa ata damit ko. Nu bayan Ahera patanga tanga na naman"

"Uhm miss? Sorry I pulled you hindi ka kase tumitigil but can I ask you a question?" Napataas ang kilay ni Ahera sa sinabi ng lalaki.

Ah di naman pala sumabit may nakisabit lang. Tangina lakas ng trip nito ah.

Ahera smiled and asked the man before her "Ano po yun? Sorry I was thinking about something eh."

"Is your name Ahera?" Ahera nodded confused as to why this man knows her eh di naman nya ito kilala.

Putangina ano na naman to, kikidnapin ba ako nito? Sino to gago, wala naman akong nakaaway baka bigla akong saksakin nito. Ahera's thought ran wild. Again delulu sya and hindi rin nya maiwasan na kabahan dahil clearly hidni nya ito kilala pero kilala sya nito.

"Yes? Sorry hindi po kita kilala eh, perhaps naging kaklase kita noon? O may atraso ba ako sayo o yung mga kaybigan ko?" Ahera asked pretending to be brave kahit sa kaloob loob eh nagdadasal na sya sa diyos.

The man smiled at her, "Uhm no wala kang atraso saken kahit mga kaybigan mo. Pero do you these recurring dreams? Where you are with someone, a guy perhaps?"

Luh gago why mo knows kuya.

"Uhm why are you asking that? Ang weird nito ha, prank ba to? Aalis na ako kuya pabitawan na kamay ko, ayoko sa ganto"

The man seemed to panic when he heard what Ahera said.

"No no listen to me ok, I-I also have these dreams ok? I know you from my dreams. Noong una akala ko due to pangungulila ko lang kaya napanaginipan kita pero hindi eh this is on going for almost a year na."

"I also saw you a month ago, noong una akala ko namamalikmata lang ako kase masyado kong ineenjoy yung panaginip ko pero I saw you again today and ayokong hindi ka makausap."

"Ha? Gago? Seyoso? Tunay ka? Hindi ba to prank nung friend ko? Gago kuya wag joke time, pinapaasa ako eh. Wala na ngang kavalentine papaasahin nyo pa."

"Hindi nga, totoo ako. I'm Red as in the kulay. Kung ayaw mo maniwala listen diba in one of our dreams we went to the big bad wolf at manila? We also bought a lot of books tas sabi mo pa ang laki kong budol kase I'm spoiling yoy by buying you every book na matitipuhan mo."

Nanlaki ang mata ni Ahera kasi totoo ngang nangyari yoon at isa yon sa mga panaginip nya na hindi nya sinabi sa mga kaybigan nya.

"Huy seryoso ka ba dyan?" Gago naghahallucinate na ata ako. Lord give me the sign na totoo to please.

Para bang narinig ng langit ang iniisip nya at tumunog ang kampana. Luh ang bilis naman ng sign mo lord.

"Yes I'm very serious about this. If you want can we uhm go inside that coffe shop? I can tell you more if you still won't believe me." Red smiled at her while pointing at the coffe shop near them.

She agreed of course. Pede ba syang mapahamak? Yes! Uunahin parin ba nya ang landi? Yes!

They entered the coffe shop and they were immediately greeted with the smell of freshly baked pastries.

"Uhm upo ka muna don, I'll order for us. Matcha right? What would you like to have with your drink?"

Ahera got a little shocked na alam nito ang favorite nya and naalala nya this man claimed to be the man in her dreams. Umaasa na sya.

"Uhm chocolate cake nalang siguro"

"Ok wait for me here, I'll just order quickly."

Ahera pinched herself the moment Red left.

"Aray gago masakit, totoo nga."

Ahera can't seem to process what is happening at nang bumalik ang lalake sa table nila ay medyo wala pa sya sa tamang pag iisip. Gago di naman ako nag inom pero bat feel ko natamaan ako ng alak?

"Hmm, let me convince you na ako yun ok?" Ahera nodded and just listened to Red talk about that things they did in their dreams.

"Paandarin mo kalandian mo Ahera, hindi ko hinanap yang lalaki na yan ng para sa wala lang. Magsaya ka na, time mo na para sumaya."

Title: "Lucid Lines"

Amidst the chilly weather in the small town of Sinclaire, there lived a young boy named Adler Bennett. At just sixteen years old, Adler possessed an incredibly vivid imagination that often led to fantastic dreams while he slept. His dreams were frequently about adventurous experiences and spectacular destinations. One night, as Adler's eyelids closed began his vivid dreams that was more than just a simple fantasy; it was a life-altering experience.

In his dream, Adler found himself in a peculiar city he had never seen before. "Woah...." he gasped, the streets were adorned with flowers of every color, tall buildings with gleaming lights, and a sweet scent filled the air. However, there was no one in the city, amidst its beautiful scenery it was empty. "Hello!!, is anyone here?!" Adler's voice echoed through the empty streets but there was no response, so he decided to stroll along the solemn sidewalks. Hours

 passed,and he eventually sat on an empty bleacher around the corner. It was then that he noticed a silhouette of a girl around his age not that far from where he was sitting. As the girl moved and met Adler's gaze an unfamiliar feeling filled the air. Adler was the first to break the gaze and decided to approach the girl. "Hey" he remarked as he continued to walk "are you the only one here in this pla-" Adler couldn't finish his sentence as he was captivated when the girl's radiant smile that seemed to light up the place as her blue eyes sparkled. "Welcome," she paused "I'm Cassandra and you're here in the City of Dreams. And yes we are the only one here, dear visitor" she said still plastering a radiant smile. It took Adler almost a minute to regain his senses. "Oh, I'm Adler," he said "Hi Adler, now shall we begin our tour? It's been a long time since someone was sent here," she remarked.

"Sure!" Adler squealed. Cassandra and Adler embarked on an adventurous tour, spending endless days exploring the City of Dreams together and creating memories that felt so real. They shared laughter, trying different kinds of desserts, and embarked on thrilling adventures such as exploring some spontaneous rides together. Adler had never felt so comfortable with another person before. With Cassandra he found pure solace and happiness. For the first time, he felt understood and truly alive.

As the dream continued, Adler found himself falling deeply in love with Cassandra and Cassandra felt the same as well. They danced under the moonlit skies, their hearts beat in a perfect harmony, as the stars witnessed their love for each other. As the sunset was approaching, Adler and Cassandra decided to ride the ferris wheel to enjoy a much clearer view. While waiting, they spoke about their hopes and dreams for the future. However, Adler noticed Cassandra pacing out so he asked, "Hey are you okay? you seem distracted." "I'm fine, where are we again?" Cassandra replied forcing a smile. Adler continued talking while Cassandra just listened, when the sunset appeared. "What a great view!" Cassandra exclaimed. "It is" Adler remarked gazing admiringly at Cassandra. While looking, Adler suddenly thought of leaving Cassandra and the idea was unbearable. However, unknown to him, he felt sleepy all of a sudden. In a reflexive action, he touched Cassandra's hand, only to be shocked when he saw a tear fall from Cassandra's eyes. The place was filled with Cassandra's cries, Adler wanted to say something but he lacked the strength to open his mouth. All he could do was wipe her tears. "Please take care of yourself" Cassandra paused and sobbed, "I love you" she gasped. Adler's tears fell, and the last thing he saw was Cassandra mouthing "Farewell, my love" as he drifted off to sleep.

When the sun's rays streamed through Adler's bedroom window, his eyelids fluttered open, as he gasped and started sobbing, his cries filled the room. It took Adler almost a month to recover and was now seized by an overpowering urge to find Cassandra in the waking world. Determined to make her part of his reality, Adler searched his hometown of Sinclaire, exploring every park, cafe, and street corner, hoping to find any trace of the girl from his dream. But each lead proved nothing and frustration began to cloud his mind.

One day, as Adler began to lose hope, he stumbled upon an old cemetery hidden deep within an abandoned street in town. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow, and gravestones filled the forgotten land like a place for forgotten souls. He felt an inexplicable pull toward this place, a feeling that somehow Cassandra was there. Adler's heart pounded in his chest as he cautiously made his way through the rows of graves, his eyes scanning each name for any resemblance to the girl he loved. And then, at the far corner of the graveyard, bathed in the ray of sunlight, he spotted a weathered stone along with a familiar picture, etched into its surface the name he was looking for all this time, "Cassandra Thompson". Tears filled Adler's eyes as he dropped to his knees beside the grave, his entire being overwhelmed with grief. His cries echoed, the girl he had dreamt about, the girl who had brought him so much joy, was gone forever. "I will always love and I'm sorry, my love" consumed by sadness and regret, Adler whispered his love for Cassandra, begging for forgiveness for not finding her sooner.

As the sun sank beneath the horizon, Adler sat by Cassandra's grave, reminiscing every moment they had shared together. A sense of peace gradually washed over him, as if Cassandra's spirit was reassuring him that their time together, though brief, had been meaningful and will be unforgotten. Days turned into months, and Adler eventually found solace in Cassandra's memory. He began writing stories to honor her, creating characters inspired by their dream adventures. Through his writing, he immortalized their love and ensured that Cassandra would forever live within his stories.

Though the loss of Cassandra was devastating, Adler discovered that love cannot be hindered even in the boundaries of the physical world. He realized that the memories they had in their dream would forever remain in his heart, inspiring him to bring joy and happiness to others through his creativity, his stories. Adler's journey taught him valuable lessons - that dreams, no matter how painful they may be, can serve as an inspiration for growth both in the emotional and mental aspect. And so, with each sunset, he carried Cassandra's memories within him, promising to always take care of himself and live his life to the fullest.

Title: “Ang aming muling buhay”

Tyler's POV:

"Asaan na ba sya?" Napa tanong ako sa sarili habang hini-hintay si Yana sa harap nang school gate.

Me: Bahala na nga sya, diko naman din kasalanan na late ulit sya, hays.

**I started walking in, when suddenly may naring akong familiar na boses.**

???: Pre Saglit!

Me: Eh? Yana?.

**Tumalikod ako nang makita ko si Yana na andito na, humihingal at pagod sa kakatakbo.**

Yana: Sorry sa pag hintay ulit. Buti nalang naka-habol akong di oras.

Me: Okay lang yan, Basta wag mong sanayin yang sarili mo sa ganyan..

Yana: Yes pre. Sorry talaga hahaha..

Me: Wag kang mag sorry, wala kang ginawang mali. Tara na sa loob.

**Tinignan ako ni Yana na hindi ko pansin, kahit hinihingal sya, sya ay may ngiti padin sa mukha**

Papunta na kami sa room hanggat may lumapit na kaibigan ni Yana sa harap ko.

Me: Hmm? Meron ka bang kailangan?

'Kaibigan ni Yana': ehehe.

Me: uhm..

**May binigay bigla nang isang papel yung kaibigan ni Yana sakin at mabilis na tumakbo.**

Me: Luh.. Kaibigan mo pa ba yun Yana? Ang weird nya.

Me: Yana?.

**Tinignan ko harap likod at left and right pero di ko na Nakita si Yana..**

Me: Nauna na ata sya sakin.. Ebarg naman nun mang iiwan.

**Iniisip ko habang hawak yung papel na binigay**

Me: Dibalewala..

**Pumasok nako sa aking classroom na makita ko si Yana na asa upaan na nya sya. Umupo nadin ako sa tabi nya at na patanong.**

Me: bat ka agad umalis haha. Mang iiwan ka talaga, Ikaw na nga yung hinihintay.

Yana: baka maka intrupt kasi ako sainyo hahaha, pero wala lang naman yun. Ano pinag usapan nyo?

Me: Wala, may binigay lang sakin at biglang umalis.. Ewan ko ba.

Yana: Ah, yang maliit na mukhang envelope? Sino kaya nagpapabigay.

Me: Maya Kona buksan kauwi haha. Andyan na kanyan si sir. Oras na.

**Dumating na si sir nang saktong Oras.**

SKIP! - **After class*

Yana's Pov:

Tyler: o Yana? Tara na, sabay na tayong umuwi.

Me: Sorry Tyl pero Hindi muna ako makaka sabay sayo. Mauna kana.

Tyler: hmm bat naman?.

Me: May Pina asikaso lang sakin yung last subject natin haha .

Tyler: Huh, bat sayo sinabi?

Me: Diko din alam. Mas mabuti umuwi kana.

Tyler: Ah sge...

**After nang conversation namin, umuwi na si Tyler na nag tataka kung bakit pina una kona sya.**

Tyler's Pov:

**Nung naka uwi nako, iniisip ko padin si Yana baka may masamang mangyari sakanya. Ngayon lang kasi kami di nag kasabay sa pauwi.**

Asa harap na ako nang pinto namin na binuksan ko na to at pumasok na. Mag isa lang ako sa bahay, busy ang aking mga magulang sa work.

8:36pm nadin ako naka uwi dahil sa matagal na byahe. Nag ayos nako, kumain, at natulog na lamang na nakalimutan kona, kung okay paba si Yana.

---------------------

[MORNING - 7:29am - Sat, January 6, 2---]

*Nagising ako na may tumatawag sakin.. tumayo ako, at tinignan kung sino.*

: Huh papa ni Yana?.

*Sinagotan ko na hindi nag taka*.

: Hello Po?

Tatay ni yana: Tyler? May sasabihin sana kami Sayo..

**Narinig ko na habang umiiyak ang tatay ni Yana**

: ah. Ano po yun?

Tatay ni Yana: Mahirap sabihin pero.. Wala na si Yana. Nakita namin syang nahihirapan huminga kaninang madaling araw.. ni-rush namin sya sa hospital na mga ilang Oras... Nawalan na syang malay sa oras ng 4:06am. Sorry to say Tyler. Pero Wala na sya..-

: ....

Pinatay kona ang call nang wala sa oras at nang Hindi nag papa-alam. Yun pala wala na yung Yana na palaging Kasama ko. Hindi ko sya pinag palit kahit kanino pero, sya lang tanging kaibigan ko sa skuwela...

Time skip: Few Years later.

[Afternoon - 3:24pm - Tuesday, January 27, 2037]

Hays.. Isang araw nanaman na Wala sya.

Oo ilang taon na naka lipas pero di padin ako move on sakanya.

**Nag open akong nang Twitter, May Nakita akong familiar na babae sa Isang post.**

Yuranna?.. Mukhang familiar pero yung name malayo..

**Chinat ko sya na walang iniisip.**

Tyler: uh hello Po?

Yuranna: hi? Sino ka?

Tyler: Do you know me by any chance?

Yuranna: No I don't, but ang pogi mo.

Tyler's Pov: Hinahanap ko si Yana Hindi compliment kailangan ko.

Tyler: ... Thanks nalang.

Yuranna: 👍

------» after months naging close kami ni yuranna.

[Afternoon - 4:24pm - Saturday, July 13, 2037]

Tyler: Hoy asan kana!!

Yuranna: sorry, Kakagising lang.

Tyler: ebarg mo as always, nako yana mag bago kana HAHA.

Yuranna: Yana? Sino yun??

Tyler: ayy, nickname ko Sayo, inalis ko lang yung "u,r,n" sa name mo para for short Yana.

Yuranna: Wawww Dami mong alam HAHAHA.

Tyler: Oo na dalian mo na! Kanina pako dito.

-----›› fast forward

Tyler's pov:

Nag meet up kami ngayon ni yuranna sa cafe para mag bonding.

**Ilang minuto, dumating na si yannara.**

Me: uyy Yana!

Yannara: aba uy din HAHA.

Me: luh, whatever, Ganda mo Ngayon.

Yannara: ayy waww grabe. salamats.

Me: HAHA. Tara na sa loob.

**Nag chitchat kami ni yannara, nang feeling Kona umalis.**

Me: Yana aalis nako

Yannara: Why so soon?

Me: kailangan lang talaga, may emergency.

Yannara: ah sad, dimo makikilala bf ko. But that's okay next time nalang.

Me: ow.... May bf kana pala.

Yannara: Di ko lang nasabi hehe.

Me: I have to go na. See you.

Yannara: too

**Umalis nako sa cafe na wala nang sinasabi at pinaramdam. Umuwi nako, In-unfriend Kona din si yannara. Ayaw ko na syang Makita muli.**

Dalat Pala.. na tinangap ko na nawala na talaga si Yana... Sobrang assuming ko na one day maging kami..

**Naupo ako sa harap nang pinto habang sinasabi mga kung ano-ano**

Wala na talaga. Mas maganda. Sabay kaming nawala ni Yana. Baka sakali Makita ko ulit sya.

**Yung dating papel na binigay nang kaibigan nya sakin. Tinabi ko lang. Na Hindi ko minalayan na basahin. Hinanap ko uli at binasa ko..**

Dun ko palang nalaman.. na may malalang sakit si Yana... Bat..

Title: "Love Link"

“sighs, another dream of that beautiful girl. It's such a shame that I could only met her inside of my dream”

It's been months since I've been dreaming of a beautiful girl, she's not your average girl in beauty and kind at that. The most important part is that she likes me too, it's my first time receiving someone's love but it's just a dream.

I'm a student, I prefer being alone than spending time with my friends. My friend Ash often asked me to go out but I always chose to decline his offer.

“Jin...Jin! Are you listening? ”

A loud voice echoed inside my head but it's not vividly visible to my ears.

“Jin! Are you daydreaming again? You often do that in my classes, do you mind giving me your manners? ” The voice eventually reached my senses for me to respond in action.

I didn't notice that it was my teacher again. He often caught me looking outside the window.

“Are you perhaps thinking about that girl again?” My friend Ash approach me to ask

“I'm speechless” I respond with a low and problematic tone.

“Bruh, I told you to stop thinking about that girl in your dream. Don't you find it strange? A girl suddenly popped up inside your dream daily for months?”

“Nah, I wouldn't mind being addicted to her beauty. Even if she was just my dream girl, I still loved her”

“Honestly, we've started knowing each other. As if we're a real couples, and my dream acts really strange, I feel like spending both time with my dream and real life”

My conversation with Ash continued, he was good at communicating and listening with people. That's why I found solace whenever I lost my mind on something.

This time, I rushed home to sleep. I was hoping to meet her again. Since I only tried dreaming about her at night, I should try it during the day. It's already 4:00PM. I'm excited to meet her.

I spend an hour falling asleep, it's harder to fall asleep during the day than I thought. Since an hour had passed, I managed to sleep with ease.

During my sleep, I woke up from my bed that I layed on after I fell asleep as usual. But whenever I opened the door in my room, my surroundings changed as if I was in some unknown place that I haven't been to.

I went to the park, the location where we usually met each other. As usual, she's right there waiting for me. I got too excited after seeing her again, and I want to spend more time with her.

My joyful face suddenly faded after seeing her expression, I could feel the loneliness she was holding, the cry of her heart being imprisoned.

I directly approached her and asked: How are you today, Elise? Is something wrong? I'm open ears just tell me. Is there something I could do for you?

She replied in response: Jin, why do you like me so much? What is so important about me?

“I don't understand, Elise. But I loved you, I would always choose to love you.”I loved her even though we aren't in the real world. This is just a dream after all.

After I finished my line, she eventually hugged me and cried; Thank you, Jin...Me too I love you so much

Every time I hear her affection towards me, my heart's about to burst. I've been fully affected by her love, it's pure and gold. I don't see any lies to her words.

I managed to comfort her, and we spent more time with each other. We smile, laugh, eat and even play. This time, it's more fun than before. I could forget that I was just dreaming.

After those unforgettable dreams, time began to change. She stopped popping up in my dreams, and that made me feel lonelier than before. I tried to sleep both day and night but nothing happened. I began to suffer, ruining my sleep schedule and even sleeping during classes.

***

“Call the doctor!” nurses and doctors gather.

“Miss, can you hear me?” The doctor asked the beautiful girl that recently woke up

The girl replied but she was still confused: Umm...Y-yes

“E-elise! Thank goodness you finally woke up. It's been months since you were in a coma, do you know how worried I was? ” A lady eventually hugged her after the doctors allowed her to enter. She was crying with delight after seeing her daughter for months.

“M-mom?” The mother and daughter shared feelings, they both cried after seeing each other.

But the girl who recently woke up acted strange as if she was looking for someone. Even though she finally woke up, she's still lonely. Even her beauty can't hide those expressions.

“Elise, are you okay? Is something bothering you?” The lady asked her after seeing her facial expressions that looked like it missed something.

“No, mom. It's just a dream that I had recently. I spent time with a man, and I liked him. He cares about me and loves me. Unfortunately he was just a man inside my dream”

“Elise, some guys were in love by your beauty and kindness, but you easily fall for a man in your dream? ”

“He's different, mom”

“If I were to given a chance I want to meet him in reality”

“If I were to given a chance I want to meet her in reality”

After a month passed, a familiar park that was newly built caught Jin's eyes. He sat there waiting for someone...After sitting there for minutes he decided to go home but something came up that made him freeze.

“Jin? ”

“Elise? ”

An unexpected way of meeting their loved ones finally came, they both embraced each other and cried. Their dreams were a part of their reality all along.

The both dreamers chanted came through. They spend more time just like they did in their dreams...