Chapter Text
“I resign.”
The words left my lips before I could even stop them.
My boss, Mr. Velasco, looked at me like I had just slapped him across the face. His jaw dropped, and his pen nearly slipped from his hand. For a man who thrived on control and intimidation, seeing him look so helpless almost felt satisfying. Almost.
“Althea… you cannot be serious,” he said, his voice uneven. “You are one of the best secretaries I’ve ever had. This company needs you.”
I sat there, straight-backed in his overly polished office chair, staring at him. His desperation would have worked on someone else, but not me. I had thought about this moment for weeks, and my answer was final.
“I am serious, sir. It’s draining me. And to be completely honest, the pay is not even worth it.”
His eyes twitched, and he stood up from his chair. “We can discuss salary, we can—”
“No, sir.” My tone was sharp enough to cut through his words. “Even the simplest tasks you should be doing as a manager, you push them onto me. I’m not here to live your life for you. This job… it’s suffocating.”
I was forced by my parents to do this anyway. For experience daw. And fine, I understood, because I also wanted to see how things really worked outside our world before eventually stepping into the company they built.
But now I had enough experience. Too much, actually.
He sighed heavily, walking closer to me, almost pleading. “Althea, please. Think about this. Wala ka pang one year dito. You’ll throw away all your progress?”
“I’ve thought about this for a month already.” I closed my folder firmly, signaling the conversation was over. “I am not changing my mind.”
Trabaho ako nang trabaho, pero napupunta lang naman sa mga anak ng corrupt na politicians. Para akong nag-aambag sa luho nila habang ako, nauubos.
I finally stood up, gathering my bag and placing my resignation letter on his table. His eyes darted down to the paper like it was a death certificate.
“Sir,” I said calmly, “thank you for the opportunity. But I’m done.”
Without waiting for his reply, I left the office.
The hallway felt lighter the moment I stepped out, like the air finally had oxygen in it again. My co-workers had been waiting, all of them already aware that this day was coming.
“Grabe, Althea,” said Maricon, the HR assistant, rushing to hug me. “Talagang tinuluyan mo na.”
“Yup,” I laughed softly, hugging her back. “Finally free.”
Beside her, Gabriel, one of the accountants, gave me a thumbs up. “Good for you. Honestly, lahat kami dito iniisip na rin yan pero walang lakas ng loob. Ikaw lang.”
“Pero mamimiss ka namin,” chimed in Clarisse, my fellow secretary. She looked genuinely sad. “Wala na akong ka-partner sa mga lunch breaks.”
I smiled at her, touched. “We can still meet up outside. Hindi naman ako mawawala sa mundo.”
They laughed, but there was a heaviness too, that bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye.
I walked back to my small cubicle to gather the rest of my things. A few picture frames, a plant that had somehow survived despite my neglect, some folders I didn’t even bother to sort through anymore.
My drawer was a mess of sticky notes with reminders of tasks that should never have been mine in the first place.
Imagine, I was running around fixing personal errands for a grown man who couldn’t even schedule his own car maintenance.
As I placed everything into a brown box, Maricon leaned against my desk. “So what’s next for you?”
I hesitated. “Honestly? I’m not sure. But what I’m certain of is that it won’t be here.”
She grinned. “Baka sa family business niyo na?”
“Maybe,” I admitted. “Someday. But for now, I just need… a break.”
We all walked together toward the lobby.
My steps felt both heavy and light, like I was carrying memories while finally dropping a burden I should have let go of long ago.
At the reception, I turned one last time, looking at the familiar desks, the pale walls, the endless ringing of phones. All of it was a cage I was finally walking out of.
“Bye, guys,” I said, holding up my box. “Ingat kayo.”
They waved, some even clapping softly like I had won something. And in a way, I had.
I walked to the parking lot, my heels clicking against the concrete floor.
The box in my arms felt heavier than it should, maybe because it carried not just my things but also every exhausting memory of the past months.
When I reached my car, I carefully placed the box in the back seat. The smell of leather greeted me as I slipped into the driver’s seat. Before starting the engine, I pulled out my phone. My thumb hovered over the screen for a second. There was only one person I needed to call right now.
“Hello?”
“Hi, Mom.” My voice was steady, but inside I was bracing myself. “I resigned.”
There was silence for a beat. Then her confused tone came through the line. “You what?”
“I resigned, Mom.” I repeated it like a confirmation stamp. “I’m done with Vergara and his circus.”
“Althea…” Her sigh was heavy. “Why so sudden?”
“It’s not sudden, Mom. I’ve been planning this for a month. It was draining me, sobra. I couldn’t breathe in there anymore. And besides, I’m ready now… ready to be in our company.”
Another pause. I could almost hear her trying to process my words. “You’re sure about this? Hindi ka ba nagmamadali?”
I leaned my head back against the seat, closing my eyes. “I’m sure. But before I step into the company, I need months of vacation. I can’t walk in there like this, burnt out and half-alive. I need to reset myself first.”
She chuckled softly, though it still carried concern. “Fine. Pero not a year, Althea. I don’t want to see you wasting time.”
“Don’t worry. I just need… months. I’ll come back better.”
“Alright. I trust you. Call me when you’ve decided on the date you’ll start. I’ll talk to your father too.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
“Drive safe. And Althea?”
“Yes?”
“I’m proud of you.”
My chest warmed at her words. “Bye, Mom.”
I ended the call and tossed my phone gently on the passenger seat. A wave of relief washed over me, mixed with a strange excitement.
This chapter was truly closed.
And because I finally resigned, I deserved a little treat.
Ramen.
Yes, ramen was calling my name.
I unlocked my phone again and opened Maps. There were plenty of ramen shops around the city, most of them familiar. I wanted something new. Something that felt like a reward, not just another lunch.
Scrolling down, my eyes landed on a name I hadn’t seen before: Ramenya Arushia no Tame
The reviews were surprisingly good.
Customers described it as cozy, underrated, and perfect for winding down after a long day. One even wrote, “The ramen feels like it heals you from the inside out.”
I chuckled softly. That was exactly what I needed.
“Alright,” I whispered, pressing the directions button. “Ramenya Arushia no Tame it is.”
I placed the phone back on the passenger seat and started the engine. The low hum of my car filled the silence, but I didn’t let it last long. The moment I turned on the stereo, familiar guitar chords filled the air.
Germany & Rome by The Ridleys.
My jaw dropped a little before a laugh slipped out of me. “Oh my gosh.”
Out of all the songs in my playlist, the shuffle had chosen this one. My favorite.
“Universe, are you seriously spoiling me right now?” I grinned to myself, turning the volume up.
The music wrapped around me like a warm blanket. My fingers tapped the steering wheel as I sang softly, my voice blending with the melody.
The song had always calmed me, but today it felt different. Today, it felt like a soundtrack to freedom.
I pulled out of the parking lot, humming with the lyrics. The city lights had just started to flicker awake, the sky fading into a soft orange haze. People bustled on the sidewalks, some rushing with briefcases, others holding shopping bags. For once, I wasn’t one of them.
I’m free. Finally free.
At a red light, I caught a glimpse of myself in the rearview mirror. My hair was a little messy, my lipstick had faded, and my eyes looked tired. But beneath all of that, there was something new—lightness.
A softness I hadn’t seen in months.
I smiled at my reflection. “Good job, Thea.”
The light turned green, and I pressed the accelerator.
A group of students crossed the pedestrian lane, laughing, their uniforms slightly untucked. They looked so carefree that it made my chest ache a little. I used to be like that. Carefree. Before the weight of responsibilities, before the endless cycle of proving myself.
Maybe this vacation would bring me back to that version of me. Or maybe it would create a new one.
The song reached its chorus, and I turned it up even more, mouthing the words with gusto. Gosh, I loved The Ridleys. Their music was like a gentle hand patting your back, telling you everything would be okay.
“This day couldn’t get any better,” I said out loud, almost laughing at how true it felt.
And as I drove toward the place, with the wind brushing through the open window and my favorite band serenading me, I knew I wasn’t just going to eat ramen.
I was going to taste freedom.
The moment I stepped inside Ramenya Arushia no Tame, I had to stop and take it all in.
The place didn’t just look like a restaurant. It felt like a secret sanctuary tucked away in the middle of the city. The lights were dim but warm, like golden lanterns hanging low, glowing softly against the wooden interiors.
There was a faint hum of water somewhere, and when I looked closer, I realized they had a small indoor fountain near the corner, with koi swimming lazily.
“Ang ganda,” I whispered to myself. How did I not notice this place before?
I wandered slowly, my eyes catching the details. Camellia flowers were everywhere. Vases on each low wooden divider, arrangements by the entrance, even painted discreetly on some panels. My heart gave a small leap. Camellias had always been my favorite. The delicate petals, the quiet elegance. I fished out my phone almost without thinking and started taking photos. A close-up of a red bloom, another one of a pink cluster against the dark wood. I even leaned sideways to frame one with the hanging lanterns.
I smiled at my screen.
It was beautiful.
Then I looked up again and noticed the paintings. Japanese art lined the walls: serene landscapes with mountains and rivers, cherry blossoms caught mid-fall, and one striking ink painting of a crane in flight. The brushstrokes were fluid, graceful, like they were moving.
I got so absorbed that for a moment, I almost forgot. I came here for food.
Just then, a waiter approached me with a polite bow. “Irasshaimase. Konbanwa.”
(Welcome. Good evening.)
I blinked, then managed to respond with a small smile. “Konbanwa.”
His face lit up, clearly pleased I could answer. “Ah, nihongo ga wakarimasu ka?”
(Oh, you understand Japanese?)
“Sukoshi dake,” I said with a laugh.
(Just a little.)
He nodded approvingly before switching to English. “Would you like a private place or an open area? It depends, if you want quiet, or if you like more people around.”
I chuckled softly. “Private, please. Yung nasa corner kung meron.”
“Of course, miss. This way.”
He led me through a narrow hallway with sliding doors. Each little space was secluded, softly lit, with just enough room for one or two people. When he opened one of the partitions, I instantly knew it was perfect. Tucked neatly in the corner, it felt cozy without being cramped.
I sat down and let out a small sigh of relief. This was exactly what I needed.
On the table was a tablet instead of a physical menu. I tapped it awake and scrolled, impressed at how sleek it was. No fumbling with pages, no waiting. Just tap, choose, and order.
And the options—oh my gosh. Tonkotsu, miso, shoyu, even tsukemen. Side dishes like karaage, takoyaki, edamame, gyoza. And desserts too, matcha parfaits and even a matcha tiramisu.
I grinned, my stomach practically cheering as I tapped my favorites.
Once the order was confirmed, I leaned back. The silence felt comfortable, but I knew I couldn’t enjoy this alone without at least telling someone. Someone who would lose her mind hearing this news.
I pulled out my phone and called Miranne.
She answered almost immediately. “Hoy, Thea, bakit bigla kang tumatawag?”
I took a deep breath, then dropped it. “Mir, I resigned.”
There was a pause. Then a shriek. “WHAT?! As in, nag-resign ka talaga?!”
“Yes,” I said, grinning though she couldn’t see me. “As in tapos na. I’m free.”
“Althea, grabe ka! Buti naman at nagawa mo na rin. Alam mo bang ilang buwan na kitang kinukulit tungkol dyan? Finally!”
I laughed. “I wanted to surprise you.”
“Eh paano ka na ngayon? Anong plano?”
“I don’t know yet. But right now, I feel… lighter. Like I can breathe again.”
“Good. Very good. Pero teka, kailangan natin i-celebrate ‘to. Tonight. Drinks tayo.”
I groaned. “Mir…”
“No excuses! You cannot say no. Alam mong wala kang laban sa akin.”
I shook my head, smiling despite myself. “Fine. Where?”
“I’ll pick the place. And siyempre, I’ll bring Cali.”
“Of course you will.” I could already picture Calista rolling her eyes lovingly at Mir’s energy. She’d been Mir’s girlfriend since high school, and by now she was like a sister to me.
We chatted more, Mir alternating between scolding me and planning the night. But before long, a server slid my partition open quietly, placing a tray on my table.
“Oh, my food’s here. Mir, I’ll call you later. I need to eat first.”
“Wait, where are you?”
“I’m at Ramenya Arushia no Tame. This is my first time finding out about this place.”
Silence, then that knowing laugh of hers. “Of course you are. I went there already. Enjoy, Thea. Trust me, you’ll love it.”
I frowned a little at her tone, she said a quick goodbye and hung up.
I turned back to the tray. My ramen, steaming and perfect, waited for me. Out of curiosity, I slid open the small drawer built into the table.
And I froze.
It was filled with utensils. But not just ordinary ones. Everything inside was blue. Chopsticks in deep cobalt, soup spoons in soft pastel blue, even the napkins in navy.
My lips curved into a smile. “Wow. This place just got better.” Blue had always been my favorite color.
I picked up the chopsticks and reached for my phone. Of course, I had to take a picture. The steam rising from the ramen, the glossy broth, the soft glow of the lantern above, and the blue utensils framing it.
Click.
Perfect.
Then finally, I took my first bite.
The broth hit my tongue and I almost melted. Rich, savory, perfectly balanced. The noodles had just the right chew, the egg yolk creamy like butter.
“Gosh,” I whispered, taking another spoonful. “This is so good.”
And yet… something was odd. The flavor. It felt strangely familiar, like I had tasted it before, somewhere I couldn’t remember.
I paused, staring at the bowl. But then I shook my head lightly. Maybe I was just imagining things. Ramen was ramen, after all.
Still, as I ate more, savoring every bite, I couldn’t help but feel like this wasn’t just food. It was comfort. It was warmth. It was… home.
/
I pushed my chair back after finishing the last sip of broth, feeling satisfied in a way I hadn’t in months. The warmth lingered in my chest, and I couldn’t help but smile.
“Thank you,” I said.
“Goodbye, Althea,” he replied, polite and composed.
My smile faltered. I blinked at him, startled. “Wait, what? How… how did you know my name?”
He chuckled softly and pointed at my blouse. “Your pin, ma’am.”
I glanced down and, sure enough, my office ID pin was still clipped to my clothes. A tiny laugh escaped me, partly from relief and partly from embarrassment. “Right. Of course. My bad.”
On instinct, I unclipped the pin and tucked it inside my bag. “Guess I won’t be wearing that outside anymore.”
He gave me a small bow. “Have a nice evening.”
I stepped out of Ramenya Arushia no Tame, shaking my head at myself. For a second, I thought I had walked into some kind of mystery novel. Dramatic much, Thea.
The drive back to my condo was smooth, and the moment I unlocked the door, I called out, “Honey, I’m home!”
Instantly, tiny paws pattered against the floor, and my fluffy golden pomeranian came bounding toward me, tail wagging like it was about to fall off.
“There’s my girl!” I scooped her up and spun around once, laughing. Naming her Honey was, honestly, one of my proudest decisions in life. It gave me the perfect excuse to say that line every single day.
Honey licked my cheek, and I set her down so she could zoom in excited circles around the living room. I slipped off my shoes, taking a moment to glance around my condo. I put down my things from the office on my table inside my room.
I changed into a loose shirt and shorts, tossing my clothes into the laundry basket. All I wanted now was simple comfort. No more deadlines. No more fake smiles. Just me, my pup, and the silence of this space.
Well, silence broken by Honey jumping onto the couch, barking for attention.
“Alright, alright, cuddle time,” I said, sinking into the cushions. She snuggled beside me, warm and soft. My hand absentmindedly stroked her fur while my eyes wandered to my phone.
I opened Ramenya Arushia no Tame’s page and typed out a glowing review.
“Perfect broth, noodles with just the right bite, and a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Definitely coming back!”
Satisfied, I hit post. Honey barked once, like she was agreeing with me.
“Fine, fine, I’ll feed you first before you start a rebellion.”
I got up and prepared her lunch, pouring kibble into her bowl and adding a bit of boiled chicken I had set aside. Her tail wagged even harder, and I smiled at the sight of her eating happily.
Afterwards, I flopped back on the bed, hugging a pillow. My eyelids grew heavy. Tonight would be long, I knew it. I might as well rest while I could.
When I woke up, the light outside had already shifted into that late afternoon gold. My phone buzzed with a message from Mir.
7:00 PM. Arcadia Bar. Don’t be late.
Arcadia Bar. That was a name I hadn’t heard before, but it had a nice ring to it. I stretched and rolled off the bed, still groggy but refreshed. Three hours to go.
I padded to the kitchen and decided to make something light. Drinking on an empty stomach was never a good idea. I threw together a simple ham-and-cheese sandwich, toasted it, and sat cross-legged on the couch while eating.
The TV played some random sitcom rerun in the background, but my attention was more on Honey, who had made herself comfortable on my lap. She rested her tiny head there like she owned me, which, honestly, she did.
“You know, Honey,” I said, scratching behind her ears, “this might actually be fun. First ramen, now drinks. Maybe this whole moving-on chapter won’t be so bad.”
She gave me a small “ruff” like she understood.
After finishing the sandwich, I leaned back, scrolling through my phone mindlessly. Old notifications, group chats I’d ignored, pictures I hadn’t touched in months.
The clock ticked slower than usual, but there was a comforting rhythm to it. For the first time in a long while, I wasn’t rushing anywhere.
I set my phone down and closed my eyes, listening to the hum of the city outside. Cars passing. Distant laughter. The life of Manila moving on, whether or not I did.
But tonight, I would move with it.
I opened my eyes again and sighed. No point in just lying here. If I stayed too long, I knew I would talk myself out of leaving. That wasn’t happening. Tonight, I was going out.
I stood and padded toward the bathroom to freshen up. The cool splash of water on my face instantly woke me. I brushed my teeth again, smoothed my hair with a quick blow dry, and looked into the mirror. My reflection stared back, almost daring me to step out of my comfort zone.
When I walked back into my room, Honey had already sprawled out on my bed, looking like she paid the bills here. She lifted her head lazily when she saw me scanning my closet.
Outfit-picking had always been a ritual. Some people could throw on the first thing they grabbed and be fine. Not me. I stood in front of my clothes like I was about to negotiate a million-peso deal.
My fingers skimmed over blouses, jeans, skirts, until I stopped at a black dress I hadn’t worn in months. A mini, form-fitting one, the kind of dress that whispered trouble but in the best way possible. Low neckline, snug against the waist, and just short enough to make me feel bold.
I held it up to my body in the mirror and grinned. “This one.”
Honey barked once, as if she agreed.
I slipped into the dress, zipped it up, and instantly felt a shift in me.
Confident. Sexy. Alive.
I paired it with gold hoop earrings, a dainty bracelet, and a thin chain around my neck. My makeup was deliberate, every stroke intentional. Smoky eyes, winged liner sharp enough to kill, and bold red lipstick that made my lips look like they could start wars.
While I sat at my vanity, Honey jumped onto my lap. I laughed, careful not to smudge my foundation. “Hoy, 'wag muna, baka masira yung effort ko. You’ll get your cuddle time later.”
She looked at me with those round, puppy eyes, and I gave her a quick kiss on the head before setting her down.
Shoes were the last struggle. “Strappy heels or ankle boots?” I asked out loud. Honey tilted her head, then pawed at the strappy heels lying on the floor.
“Fine. Heels it is. Fashionista ka talaga.”
By the time I buckled them on, my phone buzzed. A message from Mir: ‘Both Cali and I are on the way. Don’t be late!’
I typed back quickly. ‘On the way na din.’
I grabbed my small clutch, checked the essentials—phone, wallet, powder, lipstick—and gave Honey one last scratch behind the ears. “Guard the condo, baby girl. Mommy will be back… hopefully not lasing.”
She barked like she was scolding me, which only made me laugh harder.
I booked a ride, deciding against driving. No way was I risking it. The car came right on time, and I slid into the back seat, nerves fluttering in my stomach. Manila’s lights blurred past the window, neon signs and headlights weaving into one chaotic painting.
When we finally pulled up, I had to blink twice. The building pulsed with rainbow lights, laughter, and music so loud it rattled the pavement. A huge sign greeted me with bright letters, leaving no doubt.
It was a gay bar.
I laughed under my breath, shaking my head. “Mir, you sneaky little…”
The line outside was lively, full of people chatting, laughing, already halfway drunk. Inside was even more chaotic but in the best way. Flashing lights, pounding bass, dancers on the stage hyping the crowd. For a second, I felt out of place, like I’d walked into someone else’s world.
Then I spotted Mir and Cali waving at me from near the counter. Relief washed over me.
As soon as I reached them, I leaned in, raising my voice over the music. “Why didn’t you tell me this was a gay bar?”
Mir just smirked and shrugged. “Relax. It’s just like any bar, but better. At least dito, no one will bother you if you don’t want. You can take your sweet time.”
Cali added, “Exactly. Chill ka lang, Thea.”
I rolled my eyes but laughed, the tension easing. “Fine. You win this round.”
We slid onto stools at the counter, and almost immediately, the bartender’s eyes lit up when he saw Mir and Cali.
“Well, look who it is,” he said with a grin, leaning over the polished wood. “Long time no see.”
I raised my brows and turned to my friends. “You know this guy?”
Mir smirked again. “Old friend.”
I smiled politely and sat down, brushing my hair over one shoulder. The bartender glanced at me, waiting. “What can I get you tonight?”
I tapped my finger on the counter, pretending to think. “Hmm. Surprise me. Something strong but smooth.”
“Whiskey sour,” he said without hesitation.
“Perfect. I’ll take that.”
As he set to work, one of the servers walked past and paused at me. “Drink for Miss?” he asked, eyes glinting.
“Althea,” I said, automatically continuing his sentence.
He nodded, almost teasing. “Okay, Miss Althea.”
There was something playful in his tone that made me chuckle.
The bartender slid my drink in front of me with a flourish. “Here you go. Name’s Kenji, by the way.”
“Kenji,” I repeated, tasting the name. It rolled off my tongue easily.
“Yup. Half Japanese, half Filipino. Kaya medyo iba yung pangalan.”
My curiosity spiked. “Japanese nga? I was about to ask.”
He winked. “Got it from my mom’s side. Don’t worry, I’m taken… by men.”
I burst out laughing, nearly spilling my drink. “Oh my gosh, you didn’t even wait for me to ask.”
He smirked, polishing another glass. “I like saving people the trouble.”
I clinked my glass lightly against Mir’s. “Fine. This might actually be fun.”
The night blurred into a rhythm I didn’t realize I had missed.
Mir pulled me onto the dance floor first, her laugh contagious as she spun me around like we were teenagers again. Calista followed, teasing me about my “rusty” moves until she finally gave in and joined us.
The bass thumped in my chest, neon lights cutting across the room in shades of violet and blue, and for a moment I forgot about the weight I’d been carrying for months.
By the third song, I was giggling too much to keep up, my legs starting to wobble. “Wait, timeout,” I told them, raising my hand like I was surrendering. “I need… water. Or maybe another drink.”
“Another drink agad?” Calista arched a brow, smirking.
“Eh, bakit ba,” I shot back, laughing as I stumbled off the dance floor.
My head felt light, pleasantly fuzzy, like the world had softened its sharp edges just for me tonight.
I found my way back to the bar and plopped down on the stool, sighing in relief as I leaned on the counter.
The bartender—Kenji, right, that was his name—was already in front of me, drying a glass with a small towel. His half-Japanese features looked sharper under the low amber glow of the bar lights.
“Back again,” he said with a small grin. “Another round?”
“Yes, please. Something not too strong this time. Baka tuluyan akong mahulog sa sahig.”
He chuckled softly and started mixing. “You dance well.”
I snorted, shaking my head. “No, I just… move and hope for the best.”
He slid a glass toward me, condensation dripping down the sides. “Here. This one’s lighter.”
I took a sip, the fruity sweetness hiding the faint burn of alcohol. My cheeks warmed even more, though I couldn’t tell if it was from the drink or the way Kenji’s eyes seemed to study me curiously.
After a pause, he leaned closer across the counter, his tone casual but edged with something I couldn’t quite read. “Can I ask you something?”
I tilted my head, already giggling. “Go ahead. Pero if it’s math, pass.”
“Are you single?”
I blinked, caught off guard. “What?”
“Single ka ba?” He raised his hands quickly. “I’m just curious, nothing more.”
I laughed, covering my face with one hand. “Yes, I am. Sadly. Why?”
Kenji’s smile tugged at the corner of his lips, like he’d been waiting for that answer. He set the glass down, leaned in slightly, and lowered his voice. “Would you be interested in… a thrilling experience?”
I squinted at him. “That sounds suspicious. What do you mean?”
“Think of it like…” He paused, as if choosing his words carefully. “An ultimate vacation. Two months, everything free. Travel, stay, food. All you need to do is… sign up.”
I blinked again, then burst out laughing. “You’re kidding, right? Sounds like one of those scam texts. ‘Click here to win a free trip.’”
“It's not a scam.” He reached under the counter and pulled out a sleek tablet, sliding it toward me. On the screen, bold letters in a dark, elegant font appeared:
“Elysian Escape: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary.”
The title shimmered against the background of crashing waves and golden sunsets. Below it were photos of luxury villas, private beaches, candlelit dinners, and a breathtaking view.
I leaned closer, my tipsy brain struggling to process the details. “What is this?”
“A program,” Kenji explained, voice low and almost hypnotic. “You’ll be paired with someone. You don’t know who until you get there. For two months, you experience everything together. Adventure, travel, freedom. No work, no stress. Just… escape.”
I laughed again, but softer this time. “And all for free?”
He nodded. “Yes. All expenses covered. The only thing you need to give is your time.”
My heart skipped oddly at that.
My time.
Two months.
It was crazy.
Totally crazy.
But maybe that was exactly what I needed. I was tired. Burnt out. Drained from responsibilities I didn’t even want anymore. And the alcohol was making my head swim with a warm kind of recklessness.
“What’s the catch?” I asked, still staring at the tablet.
“No catch. Confidential lahat. No one will know unless you tell them. It’s meant to feel like another life.” He handed me the device, the signup form glowing faintly. “Name. Email. Phone number.”
I hesitated, chewing on my lip. Then I laughed and shook my head. “This is insane.”
“Sometimes,” he said quietly, “insane is what people need.”
Something about the way he said it made me shiver. Or maybe that was just the alcohol settling deeper into my veins. My vision felt blurry, the words swimming on the screen, but my fingers moved anyway, tapping in my details.
Name. Email. Phone number.
Kenji guided me gently when I pressed the wrong spot, his hand brushing against mine lightly. “There. That’s it.”
I hit the final confirm button, and the screen flashed: “Welcome to Elysian Escape.”
Kenji tilted the tablet toward me, his tone almost ceremonial. “One last thing. You’ll need to sign here—consider it your seal. Once you do, there’s no backing out.”
I blinked at the glowing text on the screen. It didn’t look like an ordinary terms-and-conditions box. It looked more like a contract—its elegant golden letters scrolling endlessly, lines I was too tipsy (and too curious) to fully read.
My finger hovered for a second, nerves fluttering in my stomach. “So… this is, like… binding?”
His faint smile didn’t waver. “Exactly. That’s the point.”
With a nervous laugh, I scribbled my name across the digital page. The tablet chimed, and the glowing text sealed itself shut, almost like the screen was swallowing my signature whole.
Then the final button appeared. I pressed it without thinking.
The screen flashed: “Welcome to Elysian Escape.”
Kenji smiled faintly, sliding the tablet back. “All set. You’ll get a message or e-mail soon.”
I exhaled, half in disbelief at myself. “Wow. Did I really just sign up for… whatever that was?”
“Trust me,” he said. “You won’t regret it.”
Before I could answer, Mir’s voice cut through the haze. “Althea!”
I turned, finding her and Calista weaving their way back to the bar. Their faces blurred slightly in my vision, and I realized how heavy my head had become.
“Heyyy,” I slurred, grinning. “I signed up for… something. Don’t ask.”
“Lasing ka na talaga,” Calista sighed, helping me off the stool.
I waved weakly at Kenji. “Goodbye, Mr. Japanese Guy. Don’t forget… ano nga ulit…?”
He smiled knowingly. “Don’t forget about Elysian Escape.”
The name echoed in my head as Mir and Calista looped their arms through mine, guiding me toward the exit.
The night air hit my face like a splash of cold water, but it wasn’t enough to clear the fog. All I could think about was the word escape, glowing in gold letters on that screen.
And for the first time in a long while, the idea of running away didn’t feel like defeat.
It felt like a promise.
/
I woke up to the sound of my alarm buzzing faintly in the distance, but honestly, it wasn’t the alarm that bothered me.
It was my head.
Putangina.
The pounding was brutal, like tiny drums were playing inside my skull. My mouth was dry, my eyes heavy, and every inch of me screamed never again.
I groaned and rolled to my side. Before I could even fully adjust, something soft and warm leapt onto my bed. “Honey…” I muttered. My chowpitz’s tail wagged furiously, hitting my leg like a whip. She barked once, loud and sharp, as if saying Good morning, loser. You survived another night of stupidity.
“Good morning to you too,” I whispered, scratching behind her ears. “Why didn’t you save me from myself last night, huh?”
Honey responded by licking my chin. Gross, but also sweet.
I reached for my phone on the nightstand, squinting at the bright screen. 10:32 AM. Okay, not too bad. I had slept like the dead. Notifications flooded the top bar—group chats, old pings, random stuff. Then I saw messages from Mir and Calista.
Mir: Buhay ka pa?
Calista: Drink water!!
I smiled faintly, relieved that they did drag me home after all. But then… something new caught my eye. An unread email. The subject line made me pause.
“Welcome to Elysian Escape: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary.”
My stomach twisted. “Oh my gosh.”
Honey tilted her head, as if sensing my panic. “No, babe, you don’t understand. This… this is the thing. The stupid thing I signed.”
I tapped the screen, and the email unfolded before me.
—
Subject: Welcome to Elysian Escape
Dear Ms. Althea Alonzo,
Congratulations. You are officially part of the Elysian Escape experience: A Journey Beyond the Ordinary.
Here are your details:
Duration: 2 months
Location: Private island. Will be revealed soon.
Schedule: Departure in 3 days
Pick-up point: NAIA Terminal 3, 10:00 AM sharp
What to bring: Personal essentials, clothing, toiletries, and one sentimental item. Everything else will be provided for your stay.
Please note: This is a full immersion experience. For 2 months, you will be partnered with another participant, chosen at random. Male or female will be revealed upon arrival. Together, you will embark on a journey designed to test, heal, and transform.
Terms and Conditions (as per the signed agreement): Withdrawal from the program after confirmation will incur a cancellation fee of ₱3,500,000.00
All personal data and details remain confidential.
Participants may not disclose details of the experience until it has concluded.
By signing the digital contract, you agreed that there is no backing out.
See you soon,
The Elysian Escape Team
—
I blinked at the glowing screen, my head spinning faster than it already was from the hangover.
“Three point five million?!” I shouted. Honey barked at my sudden outburst. “Don’t ‘arf’ at me, you're not helping!”
I flopped back into bed, pressing the phone to my forehead. What the hell did I just get myself into? Two months? On some random island? With a stranger?
Images of Kenji’s smug little half-smile flashed in my head. That bastard.
I panicked for a full five minutes, pacing my room, clutching my phone, muttering every curse word I knew. Finally, I hit dial on Mir’s name.
“Hey, Thea?” Her voice was calm, too calm.
“Mir, I signed up for something insane!” I exploded, my words tumbling out in a rush. “That Japanese guy—Kenji, right? He made me sign this thing, and now I got an email, and it says two months, on an island, with a stranger, and if I back out I have to pay three point five million pesos! Do you know how much that is?!”
“Calm down,” Mir said immediately. “Huminga ka muna.”
“I am calm!” I snapped, which was obviously a lie. “Mir, this isn’t the kind of vacation I wanted! I thought it was like, I don’t know, a free trip to Boracay or something. Not Survivor: Rich People Edition!”
I could hear Calista in the background, laughing. “Ano na naman ginawa mo kagabi?”
“I was drunk, okay!” I groaned, dragging my hand down my face. “And now I’m stuck! I don’t even remember reading the damn contract. Who makes people sign when they’re tipsy?!”
Mir snorted. “Technically, you made yourself sign.”
I rolled my eyes even though she couldn’t see. “Mir, this is serious! Two months with a stranger? What if he or she is a creep? What if it’s some weird scam? What if they harvest my organs?!”
“Stop watching too much Netflix,” Mir replied. “Look, do you really not want to go? Kasi from what I’m hearing, you need a vacation. And it’s free. And if you back out, you can afford it naman, but sayang. Imagine mo, two months in a private island. May kasama ka pa. Who knows, baka fun.”
“Fun?” I repeated, deadpan. “Fun is sleeping twelve hours and cuddling my dog, not getting shipped off to god-knows-where with a random stranger.”
“Then pay the fee,” Mir said casually. “You can afford it, diba?”
Silence. My pride screamed yes, but my heart—and bank account—screamed absolutely not.
“Exactly,” Mir continued, smug now. “Think about it. You might even thank yourself later.”
I sighed, collapsing onto the couch. “Fine. But tell me this. Is Kenji going to be there? Can I at least yell at him?”
“No idea,” Mir admitted. “Kenji shows up when he feels like it. Last night was probably just luck. Sometimes months pass before he drops by.”
Of course. The bastard was elusive on top of everything else.
We talked a bit more, mostly me ranting and Mir laughing, until eventually I hung up, still frazzled but slightly less ready to claw my own face off.
Honey jumped beside me, curling up like she owned the couch. I looked at her. “Well, Honey. What do you think? Should I go?”
She barked twice, tail wagging, tongue lolling out.
I pointed at her accusingly. “Traitor. You just want to be with Mir and Calista so you can be spoiled with toys and food.”
She barked again, almost like laughter.
I slumped back, staring at the ceiling. The word escape echoed in my head again, golden and glowing, the way it had last night. I didn’t know if it was fate, or a mistake, or just the universe playing a cruel joke on me.
/
The whole day was a blur of small routines that didn’t feel like routines anymore. I ate, showered, cuddled with Honey, and questioned every single life decision that brought me here. Like what the hell was I even doing. How did I let myself sign up for this?
I wanted to back out, honestly. But three point five million pesos for withdrawal? No freaking way. I wasn’t about to pay that. Kaya kahit ayaw ko, wala akong choice. I had to go.
I sat at my desk with my laptop open, fingers hovering over the keys. My stomach twisted as I stared at the draft I had been rewriting for thirty minutes.
Finally, I just took a deep breath and typed it out.
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agreement to Participate
Good afternoon,
I am writing to confirm that I agree to join the program under the terms stated. Please consider this as my official confirmation of participation.
Thank you,
Althea Alonzo
I hit send before I could chicken out. My palms were sweaty. The second the email disappeared from my outbox, I buried my face in my hands. That was it. No turning back now.
I grabbed my phone and opened my chat with Mir.
Me:
Mir, I’ll be leaving Honey to you and Calista for two months. Kaya niyo ba?MirLION:
Two months? Grabe, girl. But sure, no problem. Si Calista pa. She loves dogs more than humans.Me:
Thank you! Also… can you drop me off at NAIA on the day?MirLION: Oo naman. Sabihin mo lang anong oras. I hope you'll survive!
I glanced at Honey sprawled lazily on the floor, her tiny paws twitching as if she was dreaming of chasing something. “Nini,” I whispered, crawling next to her and hugging her fluffy body, “I’ll be leaving you to Mir. For two months.”
Honey yawned wide, her tail wagging at the sound of Mir’s name. She even perked up as if she understood.
“Wow. You traitor,” I muttered, squinting at her. “So you’re just happy to abandon me like that?”
Honey licked my cheek, tongue warm and quick. Traitor talaga.
MirLION: Also, wag ka mag-alala. Nini will be spoiled rotten dito. Para hindi ka niya ma-miss.
I sent her an eye-roll emoji before tossing my phone aside. Fine. If my dog loved other people more than me, then maybe that was for the best.
I dragged my luggage out of the closet. Two big ones, plus a smaller one that I hadn’t used in years. “Three bags for two months… baka kulang pa,” I said out loud, eyeing the suitcases like they were enemies.
I started with clothes. The easy part. Folded shirts, pants, jackets. Summer clothes in case it was hot. Hoodies in case it wasn’t. Then I paused. What if the destination was somewhere freezing?
Great. Now I was panicking.
Books came next. I stacked three on my bed, then added two more because, who was I kidding, I couldn’t live without them. I slipped in my sketchpad and pencils. At least if I got bored, I could still draw.
Then came the dilemma. Gadgets. Were they even allowed?
I stopped packing and went back to my laptop.
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Questions Regarding Gadgets and Location
Good day,
I wanted to ask if gadgets such as laptops, phones, and tablets are allowed. Also, can you confirm if the destination is within the Philippines?
Thank you,
Althea Alonzo
I stared at the screen for a few seconds before sending. No reply yet.
“Okay,” I muttered, stretching my arms. “Continue packing.”
When I turned around, I found Honey inside my luggage. She had jumped into the open suitcase and curled up right in the middle of my neatly folded shirts.
I laughed, kneeling beside her. “Oh, you want to come with me, baby?” I rubbed her belly. “Sama ka? Eh paano ka kakain doon? Paano ka mag-poop?”
Honey tilted her head, as if seriously considering my questions. Then she yawned again and settled deeper into the clothes.
“You’re unbelievable,” I whispered. “If I could bring you, I would.”
Hours passed in a haze of folding, zipping, and running back and forth between my room and the bathroom. Toiletries. Socks. random notebooks. I even threw in some snacks because who knew what kind of food they’d give us there.
By the time I was done, the sky outside had turned dusky purple. The room looked like a battlefield of half-zipped bags and discarded hangers. Honey was now asleep, curled on the pillow I had placed near the window. Her tiny breaths rose and fell in rhythm.
I sat on the floor with my back against the bed, exhausted. I grabbed my phone, checking it out of habit.
A notification popped up.
New emails.