Her Sanctuary, Her Space

They were standing next to each other but neither was talking. He wanted to really feel the wind caressing his face but he was incredibly numb all over. He wanted to appreciate the ocean and its raging waves but it felt like he has seen nothing; temporarily blinded with his numbness. She wanted to run freely to feel the coolness of the sand on her feet but she just could not seem to find the strength to do so. The waves were like inviting her to feel its chilly waters but she has no interest to be in touch with nature.

From afar, someone was calling someone’s name. Both knew the meaning of that call. Their time – their most precious time – has come to an end. They have to let go of the one dream their friendship has inevitably built through the years. They both wanted that dream but they knew it was not yet the right time. They have hoped for that right time to come but everything was uncertain. They have to let go for now.

He sighed and bowed his head, seeing for the first time the sand that has accumulated on his feet. And without even thinking, he held her hand.

“I’m not giving up this dream. Someday, somehow, we will be together,” he said softly.

“Maybe, we’re better off this way. We can still be friends anyway,” she replied.

“I’m still not giving up,” he insisted.

She sighed. “Okay. Suit yourself. Go ahead, she’s calling you already. See you around, piggy.”

“Definitely. Take care, tarsier. And eat well, okay?”

She laughed and signaled him to let go of her hand. Reluctantly, he did. She walked away from him while he stayed on to watch the ocean for a while. Both had tears on their eyes.