Young Love

by Jan Eugene Sogocio

Cebuano readers may understand this story fully because the names are taken from their famous expression.

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Credit to Polyphelmer Clear Stamp

Ace Thor Yaje is a timid young boy. Aiko E. Lara is a bubbly, cute girl. Since preschool, Ace has a crush on Aiko. Throughout grade school, Ace had kept his feelings of admiration for Aiko all to himself. During high school years, Aiko has several admirers. Ace wasnt that bad-looking. He has a few admirers himself but he tends to shun those who show that they like him. Though Ace, at times, would feel pangs of jealousy towards the boys who gave Aiko their attention, he didnt make his feelings known to Aiko. Three months prior to graduation, Ace could wait no longer and was willing to take rejection. He got brave and had decided that he will ask Aiko out. Despite the fact that they see each other everyday, this "date" is going to be different. So off he went to ask Aiko out. Unsuprisingly, Aiko agreed.

Dinner was great. Usually, Aiko dominated the conversation with Ace contributing a bit of this and that. Tonight, Ace was more quiet than his usual self. Aiko sensed it and wasn't that dominating in the conversation as expected.

The walk home was slow and silent. The pale moonlight revealed a muted view of the school quadrangle. The air carried the scent of dama de noche. The sounds of cricket chirping signals that the night is still young. Everything around them depicts romance and young love.

But Aiko could bear it no longer. After a few akward moments of silence, she asked "What are you thinking, Ace?" Ace relaxed a bit. Wanting to impress Aiko with his humor and wit, suavely replied "Same as what your thinking." He winked but he was not sure if Aiko saw the gesture. Aiko jokingly slapped his elbow- a slap that doesnt hurt at all. Aiko blushed and said "Hala! Kabastos."