The Day When You Ask Me to Stop

The Day When You Ask Me to Stop

By: T-Shirt na Kupas

"It is us who chose our own destiny... But it is by fate always intervene to make two become one."

It was late when Harold received a text message from Jessy. (You know what, your just so annoying. You’re keep holding on to something that doesn’t exist between us. Stop this right now. I told you once, Stop bothering me. Get a life!)

HAROLD: (calling Jessy) Come on, pick up the phone; please...

JESSY: (Just ignoring the call) I hate stubborn guy. Such a jerk!

HAROLD: Text: Jessy, I'm not expecting for something. But please let us be friends?

JESSY: (Didn’t reply... Are you crazy? Even where friends I will still ignores you. Its better off as stranger now.)

Days passed by. Harold just visited Jessy’s place but rather going to her, he just standing and stare at her window. The dawn was breaking and rain starts to fall when the room lite. He saw her silhouette, Then he called. He saw her rejecting his call. He messages her (Hi, can we see each other?) no replies at all. So he walked away soaked in the rain; it was Christmas back then.

Two years Later:

Jessy was at mall; she just window shoppes when she got bump at the back. It was Harold.

HAROLD: Uhmmm sorry miss. (upon helding his hand to her). Kaw kasi yan tuloy nakabunggo ako.(talking at his companion)

JESSY:  (Shocked) H..Harold?

HAROLD: (Stares at her eyes) Jess?

JESSY: (looked at Harold’s companion... Then she looks away and walks) “ohhh please don’t look jess...”

Jessy hides at the corridor getting her breathe (her heart bits faster). “No, this must not be true. Its not really him...

It was been a year when Jessy got broke up with his boyfriend. Because of  third party conflict. Upon in her depressing point. She thinks what Harold said to her before. And recalling all the things what he had done for her. She realises the words that Harold really meant for her. “I was so confused and childish back then, I didn’t see and realised what you had said; that what really important for my keeps. If only my heart opened for you, I will not be like this. I realise it right now, how you really cares for me.... I am so stupid and very selfish, why can’t I be contented.”

Days later Jessy decides to visit her hometown. Not visit but to reconcile with Harold. She gather her strength to face him one more time. It was  a late afternoon when she arrive at Harold’s house. She saw the girl from the house, the one with Harold in the Mall. She hide quickly. She saw Harold goes in the car with the girl. They are going out on that day. When the car leaves, she concile herself out from the hiding place. Then Harold’s mom saw her.

H.MOM: Hello hija, you look familiar. Do I know you?

JESSY: (smiled) Yes, auntie. I'm Harold’s friend. Is he around?

H.MOM: Oww... He is just gone out a while ago. Come in Hija, I will call Harold through his phone that your here.

JESSY: Oww. No need auntie. I will be going also....

H.MOM: Any messages that I can tell to him?

JESSY: Just tell him auntie. I just came by to say hello.

H.MOM: Okay, is that all? (Smiles) Can I stop you to have a chat for a while, If your not in a hurry?

JESSY: (Smiles.)Maybe next time auntie. I'm in a hurry.

H.MOM:  Okay, take care Hija...

JESSY: Thanks auntie, same to you also... (She turns and walks away)

Jessy was on her room. Hug the pillow in her face and shout... “What am I doing! Nakakahiya ka jess... Bakit ka pa nagpupunta doon.” Then she sitted at the bed hugging the pillow, while picking her nails beyond her teeth. “Is she her girlfriend? I'm look more beautiful than her, what did he sees on her? Ughh! What am I thinking? Damn, what happen to you Jess; your not like this before.”

Jessy thinks from before. It was the first time they meet. She was a teen back then. Harold was on his twenties. “He is not the type of guy that I like before. I can’t imagine a grown up guy flirting with me. But he is not the type he is a usual big brother type. Why did things change up back then? I can’t remember why. Ohhh, please help me remember.”

Jessy thinks back again. Its been two years ago when we reconcile again, by the help of my mom. “Whats happening to me back then? Why I can’t accept him to my heart? Why did I remember him now?”

There are to many questions that came back to her and still haunting for some answers...

AT HAROLDS PLACE...

It was already late night when he arrived.

H.MOM: How is your day?

HAROLD: it went up fine ma. (smiles constantly)

H.MOM: How is Sally?

HAROLD: She is happy. (While going up to his room)

H.MOM: Oww! I nearly forgot. Their is someone looking for you this afternoon. Do you still remember the girl from your graduation; the one that I sitted with her mom?

HAROLD: (Stops and think... Jess? He said to his mind) Yes, Why?

H.MOM: She just came by and said hello...

HAROLD: (climbs the stair slowly, while thinking why Jessy came by.)

Harold enters his room, undress and lane back to his bed while thinking about Jessy. He remember the incident on the mall. It was Jessy. “ She looks changed, her face matured up with light make-up on much more simpler than before.  (smiled) But why did she run? I think she still a girl, running away again from me. What am I thinking? Maybe she just visited her friend nearby”...  Harolds recalls:

           “ JESSY: Please, not you... Stop these I don’t want to hurt you.

             HAROLD: Im sorry, but this is the truth. I love you....

             JESSY: No, no, no... Please, stop this.

            HAROLD: Why can’t you open your heart for me, I'm worthed for a try?

           JESSY:  NO... I am not worthed for your time to waste. Nor your    worthed for my time to be mine.

     

           HAROLD: (was so disappointed from Jessy’s answer. And never talk to convince her again.)”

It was a dream. He woke up on that part of his dream. Make him think, from the past 6 years back then.

He woke up and never goes to sleep. Since it was dawn till morning already. He went out for a jog his early routine. Goes to Sally’s house just 3 blocks away. Then goes back home  preparing for work. While on his way to work. Harold struck some flowers along the road, then he remember. The story the Jessy wrote... A boy visited the girl with bunch of flowers in his hand. Then the girl’s mother opened the gate... “What am I thinking. Harold smiled. Its just a story. But it never hurt to try.” He goes to a flower boutique and bought some fresh flowers. Then he goes back to the way where Jessy’s lived. As he walked towards her house. “What am I doing this is absurd. I already got a girlfriend... Harold was already on the gate when he suddenly turn away.

J.MOM: Are you looking for someone young man?

HAROLD: (Turn around to the gate where someone was asking him.)

J.MOM: (Shocked) Harold is that you?

HAROLD:  (smiles) Yes auntie its me. (walks towards to Jessy’s mom.)

J.MOM: What a surprise, what brings you here? (opens the gate to let Harold enters.)

HAROLD: (enters) Actually, I wander if Jessy is still around?

J.MOM: Your on a right timing shes just arrive days ago. Come inside, I will 

prepare some breakfast for us.

HAROLD: (smiles) Thank you auntie, can I help you prepare?

J.MOM: No, I can manage. Just go to that room and wake-up Jessy. Is it alright? (smiles)

HAROLD: uhmm. Is it okay to wake her up auntie?

J.MOM: Yeah! Don’t worry I trusted you, alright?

HAROLD: Okay auntie.

Harold takes a deep breath while walking towards her room. Upon facing to the door, he clench his fist to gather strength. He was just standing there thinking... “What am I doing here? She was just right there inside the room. There's still time to walk out.”

Jessy was awake, when she took a glimpse outside her window. It was Harold he saw talking with her mom. Her heart was pounding so fast, and doesn’t know what to do. But she secretly hearing them outside. So she quickly prepared herself. While combing her hair. “What is he doing right here? How can I approach him? Ughh.. I am so very confused.” When she hears someone on beyond her door. She walks toward it and waited. “What are you waiting for, just knock.” Then she lean her back to the door and waited.

Harold was just standing there for a few moments, just looking at the door. And pull himself with a gasp of air, then knock.

HAROLD: Jessy, are you awake?

JESSY: (Pauses, clench her fist to her breast; just trying to relax.)

HAROLD: (wanted to walk when suddenly...)

JESSY: What are you doing here? (talks while still inside her room)

HAROLD: (pauses, and glimpse back at her door) I hear you came by to my house. So I came to check you out.

JESSY: (opens the door.) Yes, I came by to say hello.

HAROLD: (smiles, stare her beautiful face.) I brought you this flowers.

JESSY: (giggles, and smiles back.) Thank you.

They didn’t know that auntie was watching them. She was very happy for that moment.

J.MOM: Jessy! Tell Harold to come at the kitchen. (shouted, trying to cut their love scene.)

JESSY: (Mom, your such a kill joy!) Harold, mother is calling. Lets go.

HAROLD: (smiles) after you.

While walking to the kitchen.

JESSY: How are you? (I know your fine)

HAROLD: Nothings just happened... (I am fine yesterday, till you came.) How about you, its been so long?

JESSY: (same old answer, nothings just happened. Its your line even from before.) just fine..

HAROLD: (Helping preparing the table with Jessy) I saw you from the mall, why did you run?

JESSY: (can’t seem find some answer... Looks at Harold's eyes) can we talk about it later?

HAROLD: (nodded)

J.Mom enters the dining room.

J.MOM: Harold its been so long, I nearly forgot your face. When did we last time chatted some two years ago right?

HAROLD: (smiles) yeah that's right auntie. When did you came back, auntie?

J.MOM: Almost a year ago. May baby (Jessy) was so very devastated from her break-up. So I came to comfort her. I wanted to make sure that shes alright.

JESSY: (just shy to listen silently)

HAROLD: (staring at Jessy) Auntie, do you have a plan to go back abroad?

J.MOM: Nope, I'm to tired to work. I am here waiting to see my grandchildren. (Laughing)

JESSY: Mom!(ashamed)

HAROLD: (laughs with auntie)

J.MOM: How about you Harold when did you came back?

HAROLD: Just a week ago.

The breakfast was finished and J.Mom was clearing the table...

Harold was looking at his watch...

HAROLD: I am already late for my appointment. Uhmm, can I invite you for a dinner tonight?

JESSY: What is the occasion? (thinks, it seems des javu. Where did I seen this scene)

HAROLD: Reconciliation or something? (smiles)

JESSY: (forgetting that he had a girlfriend, silly.) Sure.

HAROLD: okay i will pick you up. Just dress up casual.

JESSY: (smiles, realizing the story that she wrote 2 years ago.---- I get it its my story I wrote long ago...) okay bye.

Jessy, reminiscing the story that she wrote two years ago. “Will its nearer than the story I told. (smiles) Iim so excited. Where shall he takes me? But I’m so nervous.” Jessy is happy that they finally meet.

It was afternoon when Harold hurries back home to prepare. While he was preparing he suddenly reminiscing the past. “Its better off as stranger than friends!” Its been years they are like strangers with each other. It happen to him twice with her. “Why it came into a sudden that she didn’t hate me? Am I only dreaming? If she’s like this years ago maybe we are a couple right now. But it turn to be just a fantasy on this days.” Then suddenly he remember. He grab his jewelry box, and looked for the bracelet he bought from abroad 2 years ago. It was customised design with the name of Jessy on it. “This is the good time that I can give this to her.” Harold’s phone rungs, it was Sally. He just stare at his cellphone screen and think if he answer her or not.

HAROLD: (He answers her call.)Hello Ling (its their endearment to each other)..

SALLY: Ling, are you going now?

HAROLD: Yeah, I will be meeting someone. Will you be alright if I can’t be with you tonight?

SALLY: Uhhmm... I will try. Just don’t be too late. I will be at your house when you get back.

HAROLD: Thank you ling. Don’t worry I will be back as fast as I could.

SALLY: Bye and Take care...

HAROLD: (just took a deep breath) Bye.

Harold was now at his way to Jessy’s house. He just stayed at the car for the moment and trying to relaxed. He then he grab the box where the bracelet put. He reminisces again from when he bought the bracelet. He was so depress back then, had a second thought if he should bought it or not. He think if he will give this to her, then everything would be just fine. But it wasn’t, he just keep the bracelet away from his eyes until he forgot. He got out from the car and goes to Jessy’s house. He saw auntie waiting at there porch. Then she let him enters at their house.

J.MOM:  Jessy is still preparing, just wait a few minute.

HAROLD: (smiles back at auntie) Auntie, hows Jessy when I was not around?

J.MOM: She’s just fine, busy  from her work, busy from her friends, and with her boyfriend back then. Actually when your gone. I always had a chat with Jessy about you two. But she didn’t like to talk a lot about you. I was so very disappointed but no matter I told her. She just cut off are discussion. But now I was surprised how she welcomes you back to her life. I am hoping that your relationship will cherish even more.

HAROLD: (just smiles pale) I am also hoping, auntie. I wish she had came early.

J.MOM: Do your thing, I’m hoping the best for both of you. (Left Harold at the living room.)

Harold was thinking.” Am I just still dreaming or is this the miracle of fate they talking about? If this is a dream, I’m wishing not to awake. For this is what I'm hoping all along for my life.” Then suddenly he think about Sally. “But Sally is the one who show all the things that I have longing for. What can I do? I am confuse. Jessy is the one who left and broke me into pieces, but Sally is the one who brought me up to be whole again. Oh, Sally your such a nice girl. I don’t want to hurt you. No matter what happened I will just go with this flow, and maybe the time can tell what my fate is. Just like before, when I'm still holding on waiting Jessy for many years to cross our path again. I just trust my life to the fate of time. And I hope that the faith was still by my side.”

Jessy was slowly coming at the living room, just standing there waiting for Harold to see her. As she stare at Harold. She said to herself. “Your still not change a little bit, but I hope the love that was for me is still not change also. I’m a fool to loose you, but maybe that was my fate. Before I am ready to face the man that who is always makes me see the truth in this world. I'm so dumb not to see those things. It was you all along. But don’t worry now, I am ready to be all yours.”

HAROLD: (was stunned when she see Jessy) Hey, how long are you been there? (Jess, your so pretty after all this time.)

JESSY: Not too long, can we go? (smiles)

HAROLD: (stands and meet her) Your still amazed me, after all this time.

JESSY: (shyly smile) After this time your still a lover boy.

HAROLD: (laughs) Really? Am i just like that before?

JESSY: (Stares at Harold’s eyes and smiles)

HAROLD: (stops and stares) Its been a while hoping this moment to come.

JESSY: And the moment is now. (I am also hoping for this moment to come. I am hoping its still  not too late for us.)

HAROLD: (smiles and whispers) let us go..

That scenery of the venue was a dusk dawn. They goes to the a newly opened resort from a nearby town. Such a melancholy feeling from the breeze of frezky air of the sea. They are all alone at that quiet place. As they finished there dinner. Harold invites Jessy strolls at the beach. In his other hand is a bottle of champagne and the other arm was held by Jessy. They sat down from the sand, toasting crisp of the liquor. They smiles, laugh, and suddenly they stops. Harold caresses Jessy’s face, while Jessy shyly look down and wait for his lips to go near. When Harold lips nearly touches to hers, she pull herself to him to ignites the kiss. Harolds held her neck gently to pull himself even more. As they distance their selves. Their was a feel shaken their whole body, a feel of exhaust of heats that they never felt before. A thirst of something that they longing from before. They hugged for a moment. Until...

HAROLD: (stares at her) Why just now?

JESSY: (silent and look down)

HAROLD: Jess, I can’t believe that this would happened to us. I never expected this or even more.

JESSY: (stares back at him)I know... I never knew that this will be happened for us.

HAROLD: (stares from afar) What was happened to us before? Where did I go wrong from the start?

JESSY: That was also I wanted to ask. But it was not you who did something wrong, and theirs no wrong about you. Its all, about me. I just really never accepted you since from the start. I don’t know why, but theirs an awkward feeling that i can’t explain; not to accept you.

HAROLD: (stares back at her) Not even a friend?

JESSY: (looks down) Yes, not even a friend.

HAROLD: It is not matters right now. You still got me us your friend.

JESSY: (sad) yeah, just only a friend.

HAROLD: (held his hand to her hand) If you only just came soon...

JESSY: (stares at him) Is it really too late for us?

HAROLD: (stares at her speechless)

They stand holding arms and talks while walking at the shore.

JESSY: I am sorry from all the things I have done before.

HAROLD: You don't need to apologise, Jess. What happened happens. Its the part of our life to grow. But in order to make it right. We first started at the wrong.

JESSY: (smiles) same old Harold. Your wisdom always prevails in our small talks.

HAROLD: (smiles back) Your the only one that I had been like this. But in others I'm just shy.

JESSY: Not even to your girlfriend?

HAROLD: (stares at her) not even to Sally...

JESSY: How is she?

HAROLD: She is fine.

JESSY: She is lucky to have you. (looks afar)

HAROLD: (smiles) no, I am the one who is lucky to have her.

JESSY: (stops and disengages her hand to his arm, then walk back toward the sea)

HAROLD: (look back at her)Why!

JESSY: what?

HAROLD: Why did you do it!

JESSY: I don’t understand your question?

HAROLD: (go nearer at her) Why did you ask me to stop?

JESSY: (her tears started to fall) I do not know, why. Its just their is something wrong. I have tried to push myself to you, but I can’t, I’m afraid.

HAROLD: Afraid of what! Afraid of losing him?

JESSY: (stares at him) Yes... I was afraid back then. I'm very afraid to be alone. He is far different from you, but I love him on those days.

HAROLD: (silent)

JESSY: I am not ready for you back then. That was that awkward feeling all along. I know I tried, but I want to loose you. I want you to be out of my life. But here we are facing each other again. And now I'm the one hoping for a one more chance.

HAROLD: (silently walk toward her and embrace her at the back) Do you know, when the day you asked me to stop. Is the day I lost my hope. A hope that was made years of holding on, to be cared and to be loved. I thought it was the end for me. But when i was gone far away I'm still hoping that in even from  the tiniest hope. (he held her arms and put the bracelet to her) This is from the hope that I longing for from before. This is the only light that shines on my darkest days.

JESSY: (look at the bracelet in silent)

HAROLD: I was not good on those days, I held this bracelet whenever I think of you. And the hope to see you again.

JESSY:  (Look back at him) Why didn’t you try to push yourself to fight the love you believe in for me?

HAROLD: (turned her affront to him) I fight but you never let me tried... I loved you, but when I start, you always pushes me away. Every explanations I had it seems nothing, you even didn’t care. It hurts me a lot. I already lost you on that day, I tried to fight. But no matter how I fight, It seems nothing for you. I'm fighting for a losing battle. I'm fighting for nothing... (Bows down, when his tear shows up)

JESSY: (embraces him tightly) I’m so sorry... Please forgive me what I had done before. I was so very blind. Blinded from the hopes and loves for him. I didn’t realise that your the one who keeps holding on for me.

HAROLD: (sobs) yeah, I'm just keep holding on. Until I realise what you had said that “sometimes people will stops holding on for sometimes soon.” Yes, I had stop for a while trying to seek for myself. It was endless, seeking for myself from nothing. I'm just became nothing. Nothing without you...

JESSY: Can we start all over again?

HAROLD: (embraces her and whispers) I wish you came earlier, Jess.

JESSY: (while her head leaning at his chest) Is it really too late?

HAROLD: I don’t know yet.

JESSY: We will make these things right for this time. I will fight for my love for you from now on. Please let me fight for my love. Cause I know there is still part of me in your heart. (hugs tightly) Sana ako na lang ulit sa puso mo...

Harold was very confused and he was recalling the past, when he was the one who only fight for his love to Jessy that never been answered nor cared. He suffered it painfully back then. He knew what it felt to her right now. But for now he had a responsibilities to be a boyfriend of Sally. He doesn’t want to hurt Sally, but he also doesn’t want to hurt Jessy. “what shall I do?” As he thinks. “I love the woman from the past, and I also love the woman from the present.” Harold and Jessy walks together on silence.  Until Harold looks to his watch.

JESSY: (stares at him while his looking to his watch) Can we stay a little longer? I want you to stay with me here alone.

HAROLD: (looks at her silently. “I would love too. Even forever.”)

A long silence was on the air. Until Jessy asks Harold.

JESSY: Is she waiting for you right now?

HAROLD: (caresses her hair and her face as he stares at her eyes) Yes, she is waiting for me tonight.

JESSY: (Holds his hand and put it down as she smiles.) You can go... I understand.

HAROLD: (he hold her hand) Can we go back now?

JESSY: (letting go her hands) No, I would like to stay here alone. Just go back. I can manage.

HAROLD: (Embraces her and whispers) Please Jess... Please not right now. Don’t do this to me. Don’t make me to choose between you two.

JESSY: (Pushes him, and started to cry while turning back at him. She started walking)

HAROLD: (Runs after her and embraces her.) But I can stay a little more longer if you wanted. Stop crying I am here to stay a little more longer.

JESSY: (Calms down.) Why does always like this? Why does someone ends up in pain, while the other ends up with happiness?

HAROLD: (As he held her tightly embraced) That is called sacrifice. The one who suffered the pain is the one who gave up for the happiness of his love.

JESSY: Just like you did before... You gave up your love for my happiness.

HAROLD: (Smiles) Yes, just like what I did before. But you offered me friendship and that is fine for me.

JESSY: (tears starts to fall) But It gone wrong...  I gave up our friendship and started hating you and pushes you away to get out of my life.

HAROLD: That's the sacrifice, Jess.

JESSY: You had sacrifice a lot for me. If only I can turn back time. I would change everything just to have you for all my life.

HAROLD: No need Jess. If we hadn’t done those things. We hadn’t still learn until now. I had seen you, from the girl you are back on college days until a woman that faces me right now. You grow just fine. And that's the miracle that I wanted to see from within you.

JESSY: (facing Harold) Is that the miracle that you had been longing from before? I thought that miracle was, that I learned to love you?

HAROLD: (smiles) Yes, its the only miracle that I'm wishing for you. Its not the love that I really expected for, Jess. Its all about you.

JESSY: (Confuse) Why? I don’t  understand.

HAROLD: (smiles) You grew a fine woman, Jess. A woman that to be respected, to be adored, to be worthed and to be loved. You learn things in life now. Things to be serious of. But to be loved by you is a hope that I'm longing from before.

JESSY: I thought it wrong before. I thought the miracle is to love you back. I misunderstands you before your kindness, caring, patience,and very understanding. I thought it is just a show to impress me. Now I know that you are really true to me all along.

HAROLD: (smiles) I'm sorry for letting you confused, I just wants you to know who I am in your eyes.

JESSY: Will you forgive me? (smiles)

HAROLD: Yes, you are already forgiven. Ever since the day you ask me to stop loving you.

JESSY: (hugs Harold tightly)Please, love me now?

HAROLD: (held her chin and stares her lips) My love for you was never changed ever since the day when its getting stronger. (and kisses her)

Jessy’s cellphone rung. It was her mother. “Mom, we’re gonna be late, Okay will be going now, bye.” She tell Harold that its time to go home. Harold just smile and nodded. It is the happiest moment for both of them. They never thought it would be happen.

On their way back...

Harold was driving silently.

JESSY: (staring at Harold) What will be happened for us now?

HAROLD: (smiles) Let it be this way Jess. (confuse)

JESSY: (hoping... and smiles silently) I will be waiting, if the time may come when you decide.

HAROLD: Thanks for understanding.

Harold take Jessy to her home. In there her mom waits inside.

J.MOM: How’s your night?

JESSY: (smiles) it came out fine mom, we had a lot of talks; updating our life from before.

J.MOM: Harold, you looks so deep. Chill down, I was hoping a good news.

HAROLD: (stunned about J.mom’s reaction) We are just fine auntie. (smiles)

JESSY: (concerns) we still have a lot to talk to mom. We are making it step by step at a time.

HAROLD: (continues) Yes auntie. We are happy together at our date.

J.MOM: And?

JESSY: Mom... Stop it. (smiles) Harold do you want to have a cup of coffee? I don’t want to hear your going home already? (stares Harold with authority)

HAROLD: (gets what she meant) Yes, I will stay for a while.

J.MOM: Okay I will get the coffee for both of you.

HAROLD: No need auntie, just get some rest it’s late already. We both can manage.

JESSY: Yes mom. You should get some rest. (goes to her and whispered) Your so excited mom... (smiles)

J.MOM: Okay, I will left you both. I will be on my room in case you needed me. (wink at Harold)

HAROLD: Okay auntie.. Thank you very much. (smiles)

They go to the kitchen and got some coffee.

JESSY: (whew!) I apologise for mom. She’s so excited about us. (smiles)

HAROLD: (smiles) No need to apologies. I knew she is really excited.

JESSY: (she looks to Harold. Please stay here for a while.)

HAROLD: uhhhhmmm. What are you looking at?

JESSY: (Smiles) I am just surprised the your not really bad looking after all. (Laugh)

HAROLD: Ow, Really? That's why you didn’t even bother to look at me before.. (Laugh)

JESSY: No! I am just afraid the way you look at me. I am just a child back then.

HAROLD: Why? Those my stare bites you?

JESSY: I mean yeah! It is like that your gonna eat me as whole. (Then she looks at Harold's eyes) Your eyes are so beautiful. I don’t know till then that your eyes are very calm and dreamy. I don’t even realise it from before.

HAROLD: (Laughs) Hey stop it. Your drowning me from your eyes.

JESSY: but even on those deep eyes I see loneliness.

HAROLD: (looks down) It was used to that for very long time. I don't know you had said that. But I appreciated what you see.

JESSY: (hugs Harold) Thank you for all you done for me back then. I never knew that you did it for your love for me. I really appreciated it all. But my stubbornness came first, and it takes to realise all the troubles I had been through. I regret it from first. But now, here we are again.

HAROLD: (smiles, combs her hair by his fingers; while she hugs him) I didn’t know that this fate would came again for us. If I know that we will meet again at this third time around. I will wait for you.

JESSY: I was so wrong. Very, very wrong what I had done. If we are just friend before and let you contact me. Maybe its not hard for you.

HAROLD: (silently thinks from the past... He didn’t know how to contact her while he is away. Its very painful for him back then. Suffered from the lose of his love and the lose of their friendship.) But I get through to those and move on.

JESSY: Yeah, but it was not right for me to do...

HAROLD: Nope, it is right thing to do. I know your looking also for my sake. You don’t want me to keep you so long.

JESSY: No, please don’t say that... I know that you just making me comfort, but the truth. What I had done was not my real intention.

HAROLD: (looks to her eyes) Its just fate for us.

JESSY: Yes. It is our fate. (She lift her lips to him and kisses him)

A minute later...

HAROLD:  (looks at his watch.) Its very late already. I am going now.

JESSY: (Hugs him tightly. Please stay)

HAROLD: (embraces her, as he understand) I know... there are still tomorrow. I will be back.

JESSY: I love you? (looks straight at him)

HAROLD: (smiles and give her a kiss; but never answer) Get early to bed. I will call you tomorrow.

They bid goodbye for the night...

As Harold arrive at his house he saw Sally at the bench of the porch. He slowly walked and approaches her while is sleeping there. He sat down and combs her hair. Sally wakes up and sat down. Silently fret.

HAROLD: why didn’t you go inside and wait for me there?

SALLY: (fret and confuse if she gonna be angry or not) How’s your night?

HAROLD: (confuse if he smile or not to. He knew that she is angry.) fine...

SALLY: How is she? (Sally knew where and what he is doing. He never keep secrets from her.)

HAROLD: She is already home safely.

SALLY: (Stands and starts to walks) Okay, Maybe I will go home.

HAROLD: (stands and hold her hand) Please stay here for the night.

SALLY: My mom is waiting.

HAROLD: I insist you to stay with me.

SALLY: It’s enough for the night, Harold. Don’t make things complicated.

HAROLD: Then get angry with me. I am not used for you silence.

SALLY: (cries) Please don’t make me. I am confuse why did you do these and all. But I am trying to understand you.

HAROLD: (grabs her near to him and embraces her tightly) That is why I’d like you to stay with me for this night.

They both go to Harold’s room and stayed for the night. He respected Sally a lot and never force her to him; as what they deal from the start. Because she wanted it to be special for them when they get married.

Its was late when they both waked up. Sally got up first.

HAROLD: thank you for understanding.

SALLY: We are still alright. Right?

HAROLD: (smiles) Yes, nothing still change between us.

SALLY: Then get up then. You had a lot of things that you should tell about last night. (smiles)

Sally was far mature than Jessy for her young age. If Jessy was matured enough back then like the way Sally thinks. Maybe they could understand each other. They went out as he promised Sally the day before he asked Jessy out as to make amends of his action. They had talk a lot about what happened and Sally just listens to him without making annoying reactions. Its just like they are friends just before they start with their serious relation. Harold knows how painful it was to hear each words. But as a good boyfriend to her. He tried to explain it all to her.

SALLY: Harold. (as she called his name. Harold isn’t comfortable for her calling his first name, but only “ling or Hard”)

HAROLD: Why?

SALLY: (Looks at him) Do you still remember that we both started our relationship. I knew you still in love at her. But even I knew it, I still accept the fact that maybe someday there comes the time that your path will cross again. I made a decision that if that time might come. I am ready to face that consequences  (smiles) I am ready to let you free for your happiness.

HAROLD: (Just stares at her, seriously concern) What are you trying to say?

SALLY: (looks to his eyes and trying not to be affected)

HAROLD: Ling, I'm not going to lose you. You know that already? Please help me out. We can make this through. I need you now more than anything else. I need you right her by my side.

SALLY: We are friends since we decide to pursue this relationship, Hard (Harold's nick named by Sally). And I have seen you how much pain you bare deep inside. I knew it before. Before we started that it would come. I accepted it, even it is painful for me. As long for me you are happy, and that makes me happy also. I am happy for you now Hard. She is already arrive, claiming her throne inside your heart.

HAROLD: But... (Sally’s finger covers his mouth)

SALLY: Please, Hard... Please. Don’t make this things so hard for you. I know you still love her. (Looks to his eyes.) I will let you go from now on... Give me sometime for myself... Don’t ever say a word begining on this day... Please don’t go to my house or trying to call me... It is better this way... Help me also to forget you. (Then she walks away from him and never looks back)

HAROLD: (He wants to embrace her and stop her. But he knew that its also best if he would just leave her alone to think. Maybe her mind would change.)

Harold is so very confuse about his situation. He was alone thinking who shall he choose; Jessy or Sally. He never thought it would happen to him. For he knew that it takes a miracle that they will cross the path again with Jessy. A miracle of fate that was only heaven can intervene their destiny. And here again the trial of his life the decision that can change his life. Harold thinks deeply. When a sudden his phone rung. He was surprised that his inbox was full of messages from Jessy. It was then that Jessy decide to go back to city for her work.Harold goes to Jessy’s house. He saw Jessy along the road waiting for her ride to the city. He goes to her and ask her if he can drive her to the city.

JESSY: Is everything alright? You didn’t reply my messages, I thought there is something wrong.

HAROLD: (smiles) Sorry if didn’t reply you. I’m with Sally.

JESSY: Owww. (sad) I going back to the city for my work.

HAROLD: Can I give you a ride to the City?

JESSY: (Surprised) Thanks for your offer but no need. I can manage on my own.

HAROLD: I insist Jess.

JESSY: (looks at his eyes) Okay. But you look tired, can you really drive me to the city. (she thinks that in his eyes there was a problem in him)

HAROLD: Okay I will go to ask your mom first. (As he grab her bag to the car and goes back at her to went to Jessy’s house.)

JESSY: (while walking, she grabs his hand) Ahmmm... Harold, Is there something wrong? Are you and Sally had a trouble? Maybe I can stay here with you for a day, if you like?

HAROLD: Can you? (He stare at her with his lonely eyes)

JESSY: Yes, I would love too. (Even forever I will stay with you here by my side.)

HAROLD: Thanks, because I needed you right now.

JESSY: (grabs his hands) Let us go somewhere else so we can talk, I know a solemn place.

HAROLD: Okay... Sorry to drag you like this.

JESSY: It’s okay, I think I am the cause of that trouble.

HAROLD: (just in silent)

It was nearly dawn when they arrive at that place. The rays of the sunset struck so dull with the indigo sky around.The silence was on the air for several minutes.

JESSY: I don’t want to let you in trouble. I will talk to her.

HAROLD: No need. (he just looks from afar)She already gave me my freedom. She knew that when we are going to meet that night. Today she ask what had happen that night on our date. I told her all, I knew it very painful for her. But she insist. I never hide secrets from her. I know she would understand also. But I never thought that it would happen.

JESSY: (silently listens)

Harold told everything what had happen. Jessy sees how painful it was when she saw Harold’s eyes. All she can do is to hug him.

JESSY: I am so confuse also. I don’t know what to do. The man that I love was in pain because of me.

HAROLD: Please don’t think too much, Jess. I am also the one to be blame of all things. You just done what is proper to do about the feeling you had. I am the one who consent it and welcomes you back to my heart.

JESSY: (just looks down)

HAROLD: She knew from the start that I am still in love with my friend and that's you. And until now she still believe that one of this days would come that we will cross our path again.

JESSY: Don’t worry I am here for you.

HAROLD: Thank you, Jess. I had never thought also that we can meet again. I already accepted that we are not meant for each other before. That is why I courted Sally. And she showed me the love that I ever wanted.

JESSY: Do you really love her?

HAROLD: I am still in confuse, Jess. Let us not think about it right now.

JESSY: Okay... Uhmmm... I am sorry. (hugs him)

HAROLD: (embraces her tightly) We can make this through... I know we can... I had miss you a lot.

JESSY: If i can only turn back time. If I only can... I will never let you go.

HAROLD: Life is so cruel, its unpredictable. We never knew where it brought us. That's why life is so complicated. So don’t regret what we done on the past, because past make us who we are today.

JESSY: (nodded for approval) Yeah... Thanks a lot also, if you didn't came to my life. I will never realize the things that I had done before. It is you who opens my eyes.

Both of them comfort each other. They just wanted what life making out of sense from the past.

HAROLD: Before, your always a doctor of love. You always commented about the do’s and don’ts. Can you help me now doctor love?

JESSY: (smiles) Your’e so silly... Actually I laugh at myself. Commenting about those things. Its so childish and mostly are far beyond the truth...

HAROLD: (laugh) that was I thought also.

JESSY: (her eyes grows big with surprise) REALLY!  Why you didn't confront me about those? (and pinch him) I am so ashamed for those things.

HAROLD: (laughs) Ouch... Will actually as I understand for those comments, your pointing it out against me.

JESSY: (stops and her grow sad) Yeah...  I was pointing it out against you. It was so silly, but it really meant to hurt you.

HAROLD: (stops laughing and just listens)Is life talking to us, that we are really meant for each other?

JESSY: Maybe, that is why our fate lead us to this. It is already been third time around, I ignore you from the past, but this time I won’t ignore you anymore . Because over and over again my life always leads me back to you. It is not a coincidence that we had met again, but the  fate already  taken his action for us.

HAROLD: (smiles) Its odd but seemingly fate do his to thing to us over and over again.

Two weeks later Harold and Jessy grew closer together and flourish their friendship. But deep inside on Harold’s heart. He must do something in order to forgive his past. It is his top decision, but it must be done.

HAROLD: Jess, could you wait for me until I came back?

JESSY: Why?(doubts)

HAROLD: I want to make sure for all things, before I decide to stay or not.

JESSY: (grow sad) Can I go with you? Can I ask you, to stay with me?

HAROLD: (thinking deeply) No, I just want to be on my own for a while to think. I wanted to stay but this is for the best.

JESSY: (nodded) whatever you decide. Don’t forget that I am here waiting to love you.

HAROLD: Thanks.

Harold left Jessy and goes back home to find Sally. At Sally’s home he saw her outside and welcomes him.

HAROLD: Hi, How are you?

SALLY: (silently and just smile)

HAROLD: (smiles back) I am so sorry, Ling. That I made you do this. You know how much I love you. Could you ever give me a chance to decide what to make?

SALLY: (looks at him in silence)

HAROLD: (begging) Please Sally, I’m begging you.

SALLY: (turn around) I don’t want to expect anymore, Hard. Just do what you want. If you decide to choose her then go. But If your here to stay, I will let you stay.

HAROLD: I will be gone away to think before I decide. Can you wait for me? It is for our own good.

SALLY: (looks at him) Don’t make it to long, because I won’t be here when you comes back.

HAROLD: Okay, I understand. (kisses her forehead) I love you Sally. I don’t like you to be hurt because of me.

SALLY: (hugs him before he go) Don’t make it to hard for your self. I will try to wait for you.

HAROLD: Thank you Ling. Don’t regret.

SALLY: (just nodded as they bid goodbye.)

Fifteen years had pass.

FATHER: And further more, Harold went away on his own to think....

HYALINE: Dad, who is the one Harold's chose?

FATHER: (smiles) He came back after few months and decide to stay to be with your mom.

HYALINE: (smiles) Your always joking dad. Hmmm (hugs her dad). So your Harold on the story? Then who is mom?

MOTHER: You two, why I am always been on your talks. (smiles)

FATHER: Our girl was grown up already, and I like her to know how to choose the man for her. That's why I told her a story about realization, regrets, go on and moving on.

MOTHER: So you told the story about us? Is it right?

FATHER: (smiles and hug them both)

MOTHER: Don’t be fooled by your fathers stories that I am the one running for him. (laugh)

HYALINE: (smiles) Mom, Is it really hard to choose a man to be loved?

MOTHER: Yes, it is hard. At first I love a man that never really loves me. And it hurts and full of regrets.

FATHER: That is why you should not jump in, just wait for that man to come. A man that who really loves you for who you are. A man that who looks up to you that your woman that to be respected.

MOTHER: You will never know that at first. Because the first impression to him would be always a disaster.

FATHER: Really am I that bad impression to you at first?

MOTHER: (laughs) Your getting old. I hate your father at first, then I realize that he is very true to his feelings.

HYALINE: Did you find dad as a handsome man for you, mom?

MOTHER: actually some of my boyfriends are far more handsome than him. (smiles)

FATHER: (shocks and smiles) Really! I thought I am the most handsome guy you ever had been with...

MOTHER and HYALINE: (laughs)

HYALINE: Your’e handsome for me dad.

FATHER: You should not search for a physical beauty, you should go for a kind and caring. The one that will cares for  you as his own daughter, the one that respects you like her mother, the one that always by your side, either on your ups and downs, to health and sickness. The one would care for you even he is mad. The one that is afraid to lose you, and dies for you. The one who fight for your love. The most of all the one who always understand, whether he is on the losing side for your love.

HYALINE: Is that what you see to dad mom?

MOTHER: Your father was different from other guys of course. But most guys at first you can’t see those things, because guys tries to be kind and caring. Then when they already got you they will change. That is why you should be careful. It is better to know him more as a friend rather than getting to a relationship. Yes, I seen it all from your dad.

HYALINE: Is dad started as a friend first before you got into a relationship?

MOTHER: Yes, we started as friend first. Until I had fallen for him.

HYALINE: Okay... So i will not go into rush to choose. I will get to know them first.

FATHER:  That's good to hear.

MOTHER: So it settled then, but first thing first. Let us know those guys who courted you so we can be at ease. (while she starts to stand and goes to the kitchen to prepare)

HYALINE: Okay mom. Thanks both of you.

FATHER: (hugs her daughter) My princess was grown up already. I don’t like you to  rush things up, because I am not yet ready to let you go..

HYALINE: (smiles) don’t worry dad I won’t. No man can replace you... Uhmmm, dad. Can I ask you who is mom on the story?

FATHER: Uhmmm. Your so intrigue by my story, huh? Okay I will tell you. But before I will tell you. What if your Harold, who is the one you will choose and comes back with? If you guess it correctly, Dad will trust you to have a boyfriend?

HYALINE: hmmmm... Its difficult. Can you give me a hint, please?

FATHER: Nope, You should think it clearly. And realize the possibilities. If you can guess it and whats the reason why you choose her. Then your mature enough to see the value of true love.

HYALINE: I think its mom is Jessy on the story. Because he still loves her after many years. And even you make the world goes around they will still meet no matter what happens. Its like they are destined with each other.

FATHER: (smiles) You know what. You are right. But your mom isn't Jessy at all.

MOTHER: (while at the dinning table) Stop it both of you, continue it later. Dinner is ready let us eat..

HYALINE: (confused) huh? Mom is Sally?How come, I thought mom is Jessy.

FATHER: Let us continue this later... (smiles)

It came back to him, seventeen years ago. The day Jessy ask him to stop. It is the day before his departure. When he was at the Mall. He saw Jessy with her friends, eating at there favourite fastfood chain. He looks at her from afar. He would like to approach him but, it maybe good if he would not bother her anymore. She might still be angry with her. And still it doesn't stops there. After two years from before, when he is with Sally, he also saw her at the mall. But in that part of the story they both never stumble with each other. He just made the story so that her daughter can be guided. It is many times he saw Jessy, but he never bothers her anymore, nor she tried to bother him the most. There are many times given by fate that they would meet. But Harold already got Sally, and he is contented for the love that she offered it to him. They are blessed and live happily with their life.

FATHER/HAROLD: “I gave her chance to be with me, but she didn't value the love that I offer to her. I love her, But I need  someone that would love me too. And I find it all to Sally. She gave me everything that made me full as I go on with my life. She still there even I am far, shes with me along the way and supports me, as the way I supported her. I don’t want to be everything to everyone, but Sally finds me something the she wants me to keep. And I feel her love to me, till it grows inside me.We cannot get all we want to our life. But we can keep few to stays behind and flourish it well. We should be true to ourselves, because being true is the key of being you. It is better to love a person who is already loves you, and it is more easy to love that person, because both of you would adjust along the way. It is better to be with the person with different interest and likes; because it is an adventure to know them well, and will not bored you to do the same things over and over again with the same routine each day. Sad thing is we never realize all of it, until that person will gone. And most of all we are afraid to face them, because of our pride...” I will guide you, until you will truly know the right one will come along.” (smiles to both of her love ones.)

~THE END~