Chapter 4

The last bell of the day finally cut through the dreary afternoon, freeing me from the suffocating confines of the philosophy classroom. Thank goodness. I stretched, a low groan escaping my lips, eager to escape the stale air and endless lectures. Despite being a freshman, I already felt a profound disinterest in the whole university scene. My mind buzzed with a chaotic mix of ambitions—starting an independent art project, maybe? Or just finding a way to burn off some of this pent-up energy. But motivation, like a mischievous ghost, remained elusive.

"Maddie, wanna grab some snacks?" a classmate chirped, her eyes bright with invitation.

I glanced over my shoulder, offering a polite smile. "Nah, I'm good. Still stuffed."

"Aw, it's not the same without you," she pouted playfully, her disappointment clear.

"Maybe next time?" I countered, a playful smirk tugging at my lips. "Promise."

"Okay," she relented, nodding reluctantly.

I chuckled softly, turning away and heading for the door, my bag slung over my shoulder. As I walked, snippets of their conversation drifted after me.

"Damn, she falls fast."

"I know she's not straight, just look at her cute face and how she acts."

"Four months, and she's already wrapped around my finger."

I rolled my eyes, pushing their words aside. The hallway stretched before me, a familiar route down to the first floor. In the distance, two figures approached. I didn't pay them much mind, my thoughts adrift until one face became startlingly clear.

Her.

My steps faltered, a strange flutter in my chest. Seeing her again, after…well, after everything, sent a jolt of something I couldn’t quite name through me. Nervousness? Me? That was a new one. I was usually the one making people squirm, not the other way around.

We made eye contact, and for a heartbeat, time seemed to freeze. Then, she looked away, a casual dismissal, and continued walking with her companion. I watched her go, a million questions swirling in my head.

"What should I do?" I muttered under my breath.

"Should I…?"

Then, it hit me. The organization she'd asked me to join.

Sunlight, a pale wash of gold, filtered through Kris’s grey curtains, nudging her awake. She rolled over, a soft groan escaping her lips, and stared blankly at the ceiling. After a moment, she lazily reached for her phone, desperate for a digital jolt of energy. The lock screen lit up, a notification from Maddie staring back at her.

Maddie? A sudden, unexpected warmth spread through Kris. She tapped the notification, her heart doing a little skip.

"Hi, it's me, Maddie! I had a great time last night," the message, sent eight minutes ago, read.

A smile tugged at Kris’s lips. What should she say? She didn't want to come on too strong, but she also didn't want to play it too cool. After a moment of internal debate, she typed out a reply.

"Hey, no prob. Can we see each other again?"

She hit send, then immediately groaned. "Damn, was that too fast? Oh well, too late now."

With that, she tossed her phone onto the bed and headed for the door, eager to start the day, even if she wasn't entirely sure what the day would bring.

Maddie finished her morning workout, gathering her things to leave the gym. Her phone vibrated in her bag, and she paused, pulling it out to check the message. It was from Kris.

Reading Kris's text, a slow smirk spread across Maddie’s face. "She's so cute," she murmured, glancing around the gym as she considered her response. She tucked her phone back into her bag, a plan forming in her mind, and headed out, a newfound spring in her step.

Steam still clinging to her skin, Kris drifted back into her room, the scent of her soap lingering in the air. "Right, the night shift," she reminded herself, kicking off her shoes as she went. She sank into the soft mattress, phone lighting up her face. No reply from Maddie. "Probably just busy," she reasoned, unlocking other apps, the glow of the screen a familiar comfort in the dim room.

The sterile scent of the hospital waiting area hung heavy in the air, a stark contrast to the nervous energy buzzing between Monica and Scott. They sat on a stiff, white bench, the OB clinic appointment looming like a milestone. Monica's growing belly was a gentle curve beneath her cream office shirt, a constant reminder of the life forming within.

"I'm starving," Monica announced, her eyes pleading as she turned to Scott.

Scott raised a skeptical eyebrow. "What? You just told me you weren't hungry."

"Yeah, well, I'm hungry now," she whined, a touch of drama in her voice.

"Look, I can't just leave you here," Scott reasoned, glancing around the crowded waiting area. "We'll grab something after your appointment."

"But I'm actually, actually, actually hungry," Monica insisted, her voice rising in playful desperation.

"But—"

"Ms. Perez?"

A door swung open, revealing a doctor in her mid-thirties. Dr. Rodrigues, with her sleek, shoulder-length black hair and warm, medium-toned skin, stood in the doorway, her voice professional yet gentle.

Monica and Scott snapped to attention, the tension momentarily forgotten. Monica gave Scott a firm look. "Stay put."

"Like I have a choice," he muttered, rolling his eyes.

Monica playfully swatted his shoulder, earning a dramatic "ow" from Scott. She frowned, then transformed her expression into a polite smile as she followed the doctor inside.

"Right this way, Ms. Perez. Please, make yourself comfortable," Dr. Rodrigues said, patting the OB examination bed.

Monica nodded, climbing onto the bed and settling into a side-lying position, then flat on her back. Her gaze drifted to her small baby bump, a silent acknowledgment of the miracle unfolding. She then looked back at the doctor.

"Good morning, Ms. Perez. I'm Dr. Rodrigues. How are you feeling today?" the doctor asked, her tone casual and reassuring.

"Oh, you know," Monica replied, a slight grimace crossing her face. "A little rough. Nausea, morning sickness… the whole nine yards."

"Ah, the joys of pregnancy," Dr. Rodrigues chuckled softly. "Don't worry, you'll be fine. We're just going to check the fetal heartbeat, the gestational sac, and the embryo size, just to confirm everything's progressing as it should."

"Ready when you are," Monica said, pushing her shirt up to reveal her belly.

Dr. Rodrigues retrieved a bottle of coupling gel. "This might be a little cold," she warned, squeezing the gel onto Monica's stomach and gently rubbing it in. She then turned to the ultrasound machine, a modern marvel of black-and-white imagery. She picked up the transducer, placing it gently on Monica's abdomen, her other hand manipulating the controls. The screen flickered to life, displaying the shadowy, intricate world within.

“The embryo has a heartbeat, The fetus is active and moving. Overall its still developing and the monitor hasn’t detected any issues.” Doctor Rodrigues said as she looked at the screen and observed it.

“That’s a relief,” Monica muttered under her soft breath as she averted her gaze to the monitor with calming void.

"Pressure alright? You comfortable?" Dr. Rodrigues asked, the soft whir of the transducer a gentle counterpoint to her voice.

Monica glanced up at the sterile ceiling, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, all good."

Maddie breezed into her house, the familiar cool air a welcome respite from the gym's sweaty embrace. She tossed her bag onto the nearest sofa and headed straight for the bathroom, a quick shower the only thing standing between her and blissful relaxation. Emerging moments later, wrapped in towels, she made her way upstairs, her room beckoning like a sanctuary.

Inside, she flung open her closet, a kaleidoscope of colors and textures staring back. As she scanned her wardrobe, Kris's image flashed through her mind. A playful thought sparked. "What if I wore something that matched her hair?"

Her eyes landed on a shimmering silver bodycon dress, its sleek lines promising a touch of glamour. She pulled it out, holding it up to the mirror, admiring the way it hugged her curves. After a quick change, she stood before the mirror, a hint of self-admiration in her gaze.

Moving to her vanity, she grabbed her makeup pouch, a treasure trove of possibilities. Red lipstick, neutral eyeshadows, eyeliner, foundation, and primer lay waiting. First, she applied a primer, allowing it to settle before blending the foundation onto her skin. With practiced ease, she moved on to her eyes, smudging ash brown shadow onto her lids, building the pigment until it reached the desired intensity. A flick of eyeliner, creating a subtle wing, added a touch of drama. She finished with a dusting of setting powder and a swipe of bold red lipstick, the color mirroring the confidence blooming within her.

A final glance in the mirror, and she ran her fingers through her hair, smoothing any stray strands. Satisfied, she turned off the lights and headed downstairs.

Her bag still sat on the sofa, her phone nestled inside. She retrieved it, settling into the cushions, and opened her messaging app. Kris's name appeared on the screen. Fingers flying, she typed out a message.

"Hey, let's meet at a new cafe near my street. Here's the address."

Kris lay sprawled on her bed, mindlessly scrolling through her phone. Boredom threatened to consume her until a notification popped up. Maddie. Her eyes lit up, and she tapped the message, a sudden surge of anticipation coursing through her. Kris, a sudden jolt of energy electrifying her, practically tumbled off the sofa. No time to waste. She scrambled to her feet, a flurry of limbs and determination, and practically launched herself towards her room door. With a hurried click, it swung shut behind her, the promise of an adventure sparking in her eyes. Time to get ready.

The local coffee shop buzzed with quiet energy, a hum of laptops and murmured conversations filling the air. Maddie and Kris sat across from each other at a small, two-person table, nestled amidst the students and freelancers. Kris, sporting a quirky graphic tee, baggy jeans, and her silver hair in a casual ponytail, peered at the menu through small, square glasses.

"I've been meaning to try their new stuff," Kris said, her gaze lingering on the pastry display.

"Oh, I can recommend something," Maddie offered, a smile playing on her lips. "They have a specialty."

"Really? What is it?" Kris asked, intrigued.

"Just stay put," Maddie said, grabbing her sling bag from the side of the table. "I'll order for us."

"Hey, no, let me—" Kris started, but Maddie cut her off.

"It's fine.. How else will you know the best stuff?" Maddie assured her, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Alright, alright," Kris conceded with a nod. "Oh, and an iced Americano for me."

Maddie smiled and headed for the counter, leaving Kris to her phone. The line was short, and the barista greeted Maddie with a polite, "Good morning, ma'am. What can I get for you today?"

"Good morning," Maddie replied, her voice warm. "I'd like a foam strawberry with berries drink and an ensaymada, please. And two strawberry cream puff croissants, and an iced Americano."

The barista repeated the order, their fingers flying across the register. "Alright, that'll be 450 pesos."

Maddie handed over a 500-peso note. "And my name's Maddie," she added.

"Got it, Miss Maddie. Your order will be right up," the barista said, handing her the change and receipt.

Maddie turned and headed back to the table. "What're you up to?" she asked, sliding into her seat.

Kris looked up, putting her phone down. "Just scrolling," she said, tucking it into her tote bag.

"I meant to ask you something last night," Kris began, a slight hesitation in her voice. Maddie raised an eyebrow, curious. "Did you like the jazz club?"

"Yeah, it was exactly what I expected, actually," Maddie said casually. "Though I'll admit, I'd never been to one. Just seen pictures."

"No way, you're kidding," Kris said, a playful disbelief in her voice.

"Nope," Maddie replied, shaking her head slightly. "I go to clubs, but I'm not really a drinker or a hardcore club hopper. I just go when I feel like it."

"Well, if you ever feel like going again, hit me up," Kris offered, leaning forward slightly. "Also," she added, a faint blush creeping up her neck, "I know you know this, but you're really beautiful."

Maddie's smile warmed, a subtle blush rising on her cheeks. Kris's compliment had landed, a quiet moment of shared appreciation hanging between them. They held each other's gaze a beat too long, a silent conversation passing between them.

"So," Kris began, a hint of shyness in her voice, "uh, you free?"

"Free?" Maddie echoed, a playful question in her eyes.

"Yeah, like... no one waiting at home? No pick-ups?" Kris clarified, the blush on her cheeks deepening.

"Oh," Maddie said, understanding dawning. "Yeah, free as a bird." She paused, then added, "I've been in relationships before, but they never really... worked out."

"Why?, Oh, I didn't mean to pry," Kris said quickly, waving a hand dismissively.

"It's fine," Maddie assured her, a small, wistful smile playing on her lips. "Water under the bridge. Sometimes, things just end." Her eyes drifted away, a flicker of memory clouding her expression.

"Maddie?" a sharp, feminine voice cut through the cafe's gentle hum.

Maddie flinched, the brief reverie broken. She'd instinctively pushed someone away, a fleeting, almost apologetic gesture. Now, she looked up, surprised, her eyebrows arching. "Emma?"

"What's going on?" Emma's voice was low, laced with suspicion. Her gaze shifted between Maddie and Kris, her expression hardening.

"Nothing, we were just talking," Maddie said, her tone light, but a hint of tension crept in.

"You're lying," Emma said, her voice soft but sharp.

"Emma, I swear," Maddie began, stepping towards her, trying to diffuse the situation. "It's nothing."

"Maddie?" Kris's voice was a soft question, pulling Maddie back to the present. She looked at Kris, a flicker of apology in her eyes, then forced a casual smile.

"Oh, right," she said, shaking her head slightly.

"Order for Miss Maddie!" a barista called from the counter.

"Be right back," Maddie said, standing up quickly. She headed towards the counter, leaving Kris and Emma's unspoken tension hanging in the air.

In the parking lot, Monica and Scott settled into the car. Scott slid into the driver's seat, Monica beside him. With synchronized clicks, their seatbelts fastened, and the engine hummed to life as Scott's hands gripped the steering wheel.

"Now that the formalities are out of the way," Scott began, a playful glint in his eyes, "we shall eat."

"Yes," Monica agreed, a smile dancing on her lips. "Honestly, the best thing to happen all day."

"Did the doctor mention any dietary restrictions?" Scott asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Nothing major," Monica replied casually. "Just the usual – avoid alcohol, cigarettes, weed, drugs. Pretty standard stuff."

"That's a shame," Scott said in a soft, teasing tone.

Monica turned to him, a confused frown creasing her brow. "Why is that?"

"Well," Scott drawled, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips, "I just bought an expensive bottle of red wine for the two of us."

"Scott," Monica scolded gently, though a hint of amusement flickered in her eyes.

"Fine... fine..." Scott conceded, feigning disappointment. "Wait a minute, now that I think about it... how come Kris didn't notice you're pregnant? Is it because you—" He started, but Monica cut him off sharply.

"Is it because I'm fat?" Monica retorted, her voice rising with annoyance, a deep frown settling on her face.

"What? No, no, where did you even get that idea?" Scott argued, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise.

"I know that's what you were going to say," Monica insisted, her irritation growing.

"No, I was going to say, you know what, never mind..." Scott trailed off, deciding it was best to drop the subject. "Where do you want to eat?" he asked, trying to steer the conversation back on track.

"Fuck off," Monica muttered under her breath, still clearly annoyed.

Scott stared at her, puzzled by the sudden shift in mood. He rolled his eyes subtly and a heavy silence descended upon the car, the earlier lighthearted banter replaced by a palpable tension.

"Fine, fine, I'm sorry, okay? I was just messing around," Scott finally said, his tone conciliatory as he tried to soothe her ruffled feathers. "Look, it doesn't matter what your size is. That's not what I fell in love with you for. I fell in love with you because of who you are," he added, his voice softening with genuine affection.

"Let's go somewhere close to where we used to work," Monica said, her tone shifting as she changed the subject. "I know a good cafe there."

Scott nodded awkwardly, still processing the abrupt turn of events. He remained silent for a moment, glancing at her before turning his attention to the front. He started the engine, the car slowly backing out of the parking space. With a smooth turn, they headed towards the exit, the earlier warmth between them now replaced by a somewhat strained silence as they drove away.

"This is absolutely delicious!" Kris complimented, savoring the flaky layers and sweet filling of the strawberry cream puff croissant.

Maddie beamed. "Told you it was a specialty for a reason." She watched Kris with a satisfied smile, pleased that her recommendation was a hit.

"I can definitely tell," Kris agreed, a blissful expression on her face as she chewed. "This is seriously the bomb."

"Glad you like it," Maddie replied, then took a slow sip of her foamy strawberry drink, the berries bobbing gently. "By the way, do you have work today?"

"Yeah, later at eight," Kris said, finally setting down her fork.

"That's cool, good luck with that." Maddie offered her well wishes. "I'm probably heading out of town tomorrow, just to clear my head, you know?" she added casually.

Kris paused, meeting Maddie's eyes with an understanding nod. A momentary silence fell between them, but Kris quickly shook it off, trying to sound lighthearted. "We can still talk, right?" she asked, a hint of shyness in her voice.

"Of course," Maddie chuckled softly, nodding reassuringly. "It doesn't have to change anything. I just need to unwind a bit. After getting fired from that awful job, I definitely need this," she continued, her voice dropping slightly.

Kris nodded silently, a small, encouraging smile gracing her lips as she picked up her fork again. "Well, I wish you the bestest luck and a safe trip," she said warmly. "Where are you off to, by the way?"

"Back to my province. I'll be staying at my auntie's place for a few days," Maddie shared, taking another sip of her drink. "In Pampanga."

"Oh, where in Pampanga?" Kris asked, her tone still casual.

"In Mabalacat. It's much simpler there than here, I guess," Maddie explained, then took a small bite of her ensaymada.

"Isn't Pampanga famous for its classic sisig?" Kris asked, her interest piqued. "My uncle went there once and said if I ever wanted to try real, authentic sisig, that's the place to go."

"Yes, it definitely is known for that. Every guy in my family loves sisig, but I'm not really a fan myself. I'm more into Japanese food," Maddie admitted, taking another drink. "Don't get me wrong, I like Filipino food, it's just not my go-to."

"Well, I'm a sucker for Filipino food, especially the traditional sweet treats. I definitely have a sweet tooth," Kris confessed with a smile.

"So you're a fan of cafes, then?" Maddie asked casually.

Kris nodded, glancing around the cozy cafe before meeting Maddie's gaze again. A brief silence hung in the air as Kris seemed to gather her thoughts. "And that's probably why I'm such a sweet lover," Kris blurted out, the attempt at charm falling a little flat but still endearing.

Maddie looked at her, pausing mid-sip. A small, shy smile touched her lips, finding Kris more amusing than overtly charming. A soft laugh escaped her.

"Okay, maybe I shouldn't have said something like that," Kris laughed awkwardly, trying to play it off as a joke. "Sometimes, too much sweet stuff can turn me into an idiot," she added, hoping to lighten the slightly awkward atmosphere. Kris took a deliberate, generous bite of the strawberry cream puff croissant, as if to physically swallow her slightly awkward attempt at flirtation. She looked up at Maddie, a goofy, undeniably smitten smile spreading across her face as she chewed. A comfortable silence settled between them for a moment.

"I don't think it's the sweet," Maddie finally said, her voice soft, breaking the quiet.

Kris paused, mid-chew, looking at her with a genuinely confused expression, her eyebrows slightly raised in a cute query.

"It's..." Maddie began, her voice even softer now. She reached out a hand, her movements gentle, and delicately wiped a smudge of excess cream from the corner of Kris's mouth. Her touch was light, almost fleeting, and her expression as she withdrew her hand was tender and sweet.

Kris simply stared at Maddie, the croissant momentarily forgotten. The unexpected gesture had stolen her words, leaving her completely silent, her gaze fixed on Maddie, a mixture of surprise and something deeper swirling within her eyes.