38 - Memories

THADDEUS DELA VERA

I stared blankly at the ocean, where the waves crashed fiercely against the shore. Despite the chaos of the sea, I found a strange comfort in its power. The night was dark, but the moon’s light was so bright that it outshone the stars.

The cold breeze brushed against my skin, and I felt a tightness in my chest that I couldn’t quite understand. The calm of the night contrasted with the turmoil inside me, making the moment feel both peaceful and unsettling.

“Thad,” I heard a voice and turned to see Jasmine approaching. She wore a thin fabric that barely covered her, shivering slightly in the cold.

She sat on my lap, placing her hands on my shoulders, and leaned her head against my chest. “What are you doing here?” she asked, her voice soft.

“Nagpapahangin. Ikaw?” sagot ko, halata ang pag-aalala para sa kanya. “Malamig na ah. Sobrang nipis pa ng sinuot mo, magkakasakit ka niyan.”

Jasmine lifted her gaze, a hint of surprise in her eyes. She grinned and leaned closer. “A