a/n: Nakita ko lang sa draft ko so why not coconut. One shot na long shot. I apologize for any errors na (mostly marami talaga ) makikita niyo dahil walang proofreading ito at raw lang  ito sinulat ng madaling araw. Also, doon sa part ng kapangpangan dahil although kapangpangan ako ay hindi ko masyadong gamay

---------------------------------------------

Winter, content with her solitary and mundane life, decided to lease out her sister's vacant place as an additional source of income. Eventually, she met Karina, the woman who would rent the property she was offering.

 

---------------------------------------------

 

 

Alas-singko ng umaga, magigising si Winter, imumulat ang mga mata, at tutunganga muna ng limang minuto habang nakatitig sa kisame bago bumangon. Tapos, magsusuot ng pang-exercise outfit para sa kanyang jogging session. After ng jogging, pupunta sa bakery malapit sa kanyang bahay para bumili ng pandesal. Pagkatapos, maghahanda siya ng hot matcha dahil hindi siya puwedeng uminom ng kape dahil sa kanyang acid reflux, na ayaw niyang maganap at huli niyang nais niyang mangyari sa buhay niya. Iyan ang laging udyok sa bawat araw ni Winter bago pumasok sa kanyang trabaho. Pandesal at mainit na matcha ang almusal niya sa umaga.

 

Sitting alone at the dining table, Winter romanticizes her solitary existence na okay lang sa kanya ang magisa. Nakataas pa ang paa sa upuan while lost in her own world while sipping the hot matcha. She delicately dips the pandesal into the warm matcha, savoring each bite as if hindi ito yung araw-araw niyang almusal. Like strange combo ng almusal at isasaw-saw pa sa hot matcha yung pandesal.

 

As gentle morning light dances across her face, casting a soft glow on her features as she savors the simple pleasures of solitude, finding solace in the quiet moments of her morning ritual.

 

Pagkatapos non, she'll head to the banyo para maligo, magtoothbrush. Tapos magsusuot ng kanyang casual office outfit na trousers at polo shirt. She'll put on her makeup at mag-apply din ng sunscreen to protect her skin. Mag-aayos din siya ng kanyang bob with bangs haircut. Exactly 7:35am she'll step out of the bahay na magsusuout ng sneaker at wearing her jacket at helmet, dahil magmomotor siya papuntang trabaho na malapit lang sa kanyang bahay.

 

Habang she cruises sa kahabaan ng kalsada ng Taft, she effortlessly navigates through the bustling streets, skillfully avoiding traffic jams and potholes. Dahil nakamotor lang siya, she finds it easier to weave through the busy thoroughfare or sumingit, kaya mas pinili ni Winter ang pagmomotor kaysa sa pagbili ng sasakyan at magdrive nito. Hassle kasi tuwing umaga ang makipagsabayan sa trapik gamit ang sasakyan, lalo na't malapit lang naman ang trabaho niya.

 

Pagdating ni Winter sa trabaho ng 7:55 am, she promptly times in, bumabati sa kanyang mga katrabaho at seniors, at professional na uupo sa kanyang pwesto. Bubuksan niya ang kanyang PC at sinimulan ang pag-check ng mga papel na kailangang ipro-process. She dives into her work, focused and determined to be productive.

 

Kapag dumating naman ang breaktime, she takes the opportunity to kumain at magpahinga, while engaging in some chickahan with her co-workers. Pagkatapos ng break, she resumes her tasks, making sure to complete them efficiently hanggang matapos ang kanyang 8 to 5 shift. Yes, she's productive but yung naaayon lang sa sahod niya dahil sabi nga niya it's a trap kung magbibida-bida siya. In the end kasi madadagdagan lang yung workload niya tapos ganun pa rin yung sahod. Ang mantra ni Winter sa buhay ay work-life balance. Pagkatapos ng shift, end of role na rin para sa kanya. Trabaho lang at walang personalan.

 

When 4:59 pm hits, and Winter's eyes are glued to the punch clock, eager to clock out and head home. Pero minsan, kailangan niyang mag-OT, which annoys her to the core dahil gusto na niyang umuwi. May mga panahon din na inaaya siyang lumabas ng kanyang mga co-workers, kaya medyo late rin siya nakakauwi. Pero kumbaga, "team player" siya, kaya sumasama rin siya minsan para makisama.

 

Pagdating sa bahay after work, she prepares a simple dinner for herself. After eating, she tackles the dishes and cleaning chores. Then, it's time for her skincare routine, Netflix binge-watching or maglalaro ng mga pokemon games sa switch while curling up sa bed niya, hanggang sa antukin na or 10pm na, pinakalate na gising niya.

 

A peace na hindi niya ipagpapalit na matagal niya bago nakuha.

 

At bago pala siya matutulog ay rumoronda pa siya sa buong kabahayan kung nalock niya lahat mula sa gate, sa first floor, second floor at third floor. To make sure na hindi siya mapapasok. Naglagay na rin nga siya ng electric fence for security.

 

Then gigising ulit kinabukasan at repeat ulit ng routine niya sa pangaraw-araw.

 

Pag weekends naman, literal na homebody si Winter.

 

Ang routine? Magbuting-ting slash maglinis ng electric fan at aircon kapag maalikabok na, Deep cleaning ng bahay, laundry, and solo cooking sessions. Magluluto siya, maghuhugas, maglilinis, at maglalaba na therapeutic para sa kanya pero sa higaan niya, that's where she finds her solace—watching crime documentaries or whatever piques her interest.

 

Even though she's a homebody, she makes exceptions for her morning jogs and when she needs to restock on groceries. Plus, her besties always check in on her, making sure she's still breathing.

 

Si Winter pala ay 27, single na NJSB, Civil Servant na isang procurement officer sa isang government office, with SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG benefits at insurance. Stable na si Winter sa buhay niya, pero may financially freedom na ba siya? Hmm, maybe? may ipon naman siya, at sarili lang niya ang binubuhay.

 

In summary, Winter is undeniably a certified homebody, finding contentment and solace in her own bubble of solitude. She embraces her own company and thrives within the confines of her comfort zone, perfectly at ease with being alone and having a mundane life.

 

 

*******

 

Weekend, Saturday....

 

Dahil weekend naman ay in game naman si Winter bilang taong bahay.

 

"Ipaparent ko na yung lugar mo ate ha, pinakabitan ko na ng submeter ng kuryente at tubig. Inayos ko na rin para maparent ko. Sayang din kasi para makadagdag sa panghulog ng bahay. Kasi wala ka naman yata balak iwan yang kupal mong kalive in at umuwi sa Pinas," ang kausap ni Winter sa ate Wendy niyang nagmigrate sa US dahil sa girlfriend nito na foreigner. Habang binabantayan yung nagkakabit ng submeter ng tubig at kuryente.

 

Wendy's the only one Winter has since their mom passed away two years ago, prompting them to convert their home into an apartment-style setup. Wendy occupies the 1st floor, while Winter resides on the 2nd floor, with the 3rd floor serving as the laundry area and terrace hangout spot. Each floor is equipped with a bathroom, kitchen, living room, and bedroom. However, Wendy can't stay on the 1st floor as she's permanently based in the US.

 

Unfortunately, Wendy's love life isn't on the same page—it's more like a rollercoaster ride of heartbreaks caused by her narcissistic girlfriend whom she can't seem to let go of, despite being emotionally drained and abused. Winter's constantly pushing Wendy to come home because she's had enough of seeing her sister suffer in an unhealthy relationship. To the point pumunta pa siya ng US para sunduin yung kapatid niya kaso tanga yung ate niya.

 

"Nagbago na siya. Hindi na siya nagseselos sa mga co-workers ko. Sige lang, paupahan mo na yung baba," depensa ni Wendy, ngunit napapagod na rin si Winter sa paulit-ulit na depensa ng ate niya para sa kupal na girlfriend nito. Bwisit na bwisit si Winter dito dahil minsan narinig niya yung pagtatalo na pinamumukha na she secured Wendy's job, insisting that Wendy should be eternally grateful. Yet, despite this supposed generosity, she frequently undermines Wendy's confidence and constantly accuses her of infidelity, suspecting her every time she sees her engaging in cheerful conversations with other women.

 

"Okay, sige paghindi na kaya uwi ka na dito. Pero te pagisipan mo pa rin hiwalayan yang kupal mong GF na magpapakatotoo ako na hindi ko siya matatanggap," ang pilit pa rin ni Winter sa ate niya.

 

Kahit na ilang libo na ang pinagiisipan ni Winter, napapaisip pa rin siya kung ipaparenta niya ang 1st floor ng bahay nila. Concerned siya dahil magpapasok siya ng stranger sa kanilang bahay. Pero, nanghihinayang din siya sa potential passive income na maaaring kitain kung ipaparenta niya ito, lalo na't malapit lang ito sa main road at konti na lang ay matatapos na silang tapusing hulugan ito.

 

Kaya, she decides na mag-set ng mga conditions para masiguro ang kanyang safety. She takes matters into her own hands at nag-install ng mga CCTV sa kanilang bahay. Dahil sa kanyang self-reliant na attitude na tinuro ng kanyang mama, she's confident na kaya niyang tumayo nang mag-isa at hindi umaasa sa iba.

 

********

 

"Hi Bhie, ano na? Wala na bang ganap? Parang one-sided na lang ba 'to friendship natin? Hindi mo na ba ako love? Kami ni Giselle?" sagot ni Winter sa tawag ng bff niyang si Ning habang busy siya nagiinstall ng CCTV.

 

"Tapusin ko lang mga errands ko sa bahay. Pupunta ako diyan, Bhie," ang sinabi ni Winter na gusto na niyang jombagin yung bff niya na OA kung hindi lang buntis. Pakiramdam niya, pinaglilihian siya nito dahil lagi naman silang nagkikita tuwing weekend. Plus, may business deal din siya kay Ning.

 

After matapos sa errands niya, agad na siyang byumahe papuntang sa isang mall sa Pasay kung saan matatagpuan ang coffee and milktea shop nina Ning at Gi. As she arrived at the mall and approached the glass door of the coffee shop, she coincidentally found herself holding the handle alongside another woman who was taller than her. The woman had black medium black wolfcut, wearing a white crop top, high-waisted flared jeans, and white sneakers.

 

 

Nagkatinginan sila at may kaunting awkwardness dahil pareho silang papasok sa loob.

 

"Miss, mauna ka na," sabi ni Winter nang may kabaitan sa babae.

 

Ngunit parang nafrozen yung babae ng mga limang segundo habang nakatitig kay Winter kaya tinawag niya ito ulit, "Miss, pasok ka na."

 

"No, mauna ka na," ang pauna kay Winter ng matangkad na babae.

 

Nakahiyaan pa na umabot ng minuto kung sino ang unang papasok sa loob ng coffee shop. Sa huli, nagpaubaya na si Winter at nauna ng pumasok.

 

Nang makapasok agad ay sinalubong ni Ning na may pinch sa kanyang pisngi, tuwang-tuwa na makita si Winter.

 

"Akala ko hindi mo na ako love. Dumating na pala yung box ng mga oreo cookies pero kumain ka na ba?" ang aya ni Ning, na ngayon ay 3 months nang buntis.

 

Natatawa si Giselle, ang partner at asawa ni Ning na best friend din ni Winter, habang nakikita ang eksena, dahil halata na pinaglilihian nga ni Ning si Winter. Hindi muna lumapit si Giselle dahil inasikaso muna niya ang order ng nakasabay ni Winter pagpasok sa coffee shop.

 

"Good evening, our ever-so-loyal customer. Same order pa rin ba for you? Oh, by the way, you're not the apple of my wife's eye tonight, Karina. Her favorite BFF just arrived kasi," ang bati ni Giselle sa nakasabay na babae ni Winter na isa rin sa pinaglilihian ni Ning.

 

"Mukha nga. Yes, One ice americano, please," ang order ng babae na nakangiti na binaling ang tingin sa direction nila Ning at Winter. Kitang-kita pinipisil-pisil ni Ning yung pisngi ni Winter na hinahayaan lang ni Winter.

 

Then, Giselle passed the order to the employee and approached Winter and Ning. Kasabay nito, ang taller woman na nakasabay ni Winter papasok sa coffee shop ay napatingin sa tatlo, pero ang main na tinitignan niya ay si Winter.

 

"Hindi na ako magugulat kung kamukha mo or may makukuhang mannerism mo yung anak namin, Win," ang lapit ni Gi kina Winter at Ning.

 

Napabuntong hininga na lang si Winter dahil lagi na lang  siyang nakikita ni Ning pero masaya naman siya na makitang hindi naiistress si Ning sa pagbubuntis despite still working at their coffee and milktea shop business.

 

Yes, Winter is also part of the partnership in running the coffee and milktea shop. She utilizes her procurement skills to find affordable suppliers for their business, proving that despite being a homebody, she never forgets her responsibilities as a business partner to her BFFs.

 

"Bakit talo ka pa mukha ko?" Ang sarcastic na remark ni Winter na natawa na lang si Giselle.

 

"By the way Winter, mamaya mo na i-open yung mga pack ng Oreos. May ipapakita ako sa'yo? Just wait there, I'll get your food and drinks," Gi said as she settled next to Winter, knowing what would happen next. Minsan ayaw ni Winter magpakita dahil kung si Ning pinaglilihian siya, si Gi naman ay binubugaw at nirereto siya kung kani-kanino na daig pa ang bumble at matchmaker.

 

Pagkalapag ng iced matcha and butter choconut donut na food niya sa table. Fave ni Winter kasi yun at iba yung ngitian ni Giselle na may ipapakita sa phone niya ng tumabi ito kay Giselle.

 

"Kung may ipapakilala ka pa na lalaki o babae, man, please, tigilan mo na 'yan. Hindi talaga ako interested," sabi ni Winter nang seryoso, habang iwas sa pagtingin sa phone ni Giselle.

 

Napakarami nang ni-reto si Giselle. Pati si Ning, akala nila pwede si Jaemin, yung pinsan ni Ning, na pinilit pang i-set up kay Winter, pero wala, hindi nag-work. Lahat ng unang nirereto nila na puro lalaki. Pero waley, walang tumalab kay Winter, so itatry na lang daw nilang babae, kasi baka sakaling ma-reto rin sila ng tropa nila.

 

"Parang na-realize ko kasi baka Aromantic talaga ako. Kasi, swear, never ako nagka-crush sa kahit sinong tao. Minsan lang siguro na-a-admire ko yung looks, lalo na sa mga girls, pero hanggang dun lang talaga. Alam niyo, minsan na-i-insecure ako sa inyo," sabi ni Winter habang ngumingiti, pero kitang-kita na seryoso na ang usapan nila.

 

"Kasi gusto ko rin naman maranasan yung mayroon kayong dalawa. Gusto ko rin malaman kung paano mainlove romantically at paano mahalin pabalik. Gusto ko maranasan yung kilig, excitement na makita yung isang tao, at heart-pounding moments, pero nahihirapan akong maintindihan at maramdaman yun. Naniniwala ako na may dalawang klase ng tao: yung una, pwedeng maging girlfriend o boyfriend, pwede rin magkaroon ng pamilya, maging nanay, tatay, o mabuting asawa, katulad ninyong dalawa ni Ning. Lagpas sampung taon na tayo magkakilala. Nakita ko kung paano niyo nilabanan yung isat-isa sa kabila ng homophobic at conservative yung family niyo na against sa relationship niyo. Even cutting them off just for love's sake at tingnan niyo ngayon, magkakaanak na kayo. Masaya ako para sa inyo. I know you'll make great mommies sa pamangkin ko."

 

"May isang klase ng tao naman na dapat mag-isa lang na hindi dapat bumuo ng pamilya o kahit magkagirlfriend or boyfriend dahil makakasakit sila. They will never ready for the responsibilities of having a family or a romantic relationship with someone else. Hanggang bilang kapatid, kaibigan, o anak lang talaga sila. Pero minsan none of the above kahit maging kapatid, kaibigan or anak ay hindi nila kaya kasi kupal talaga silang na tao na need magisa. Pakiramdam ko, doon ako nabibilang, o baka anti-romantic nga lang talaga ako na hanggang kapatid at kaibigan lang,"ang biglang ngisi ni Winter pero may bigat yung mga salita niya na pigil na maluha dahil ngayon na lang ulit naging personal na about sa kanya yung usapan.

 

Natahimik sila Ning at Gi dahil aromantic nga ba talaga si Winter?

 

Or perhaps there's a deeper reason why, in her 27 years of existence, she has never experienced romantic love. Even pilitin or manonood ng sobrang daming romance genre na movies or drama ay never niyang naintindihan ito. Kaya in the end manonood na lang siya ng crime documentary.

 

They have known each other for a long time, since high school, so Ning and Gi might already have the answer. To lighten the mood, Winter spoke up again.

 

"Bakit ba kasi kayo bothered na bothered sa lovelife ko? Alam kong concerned kayo na tumanda ako magisa but i'm fine na wala akong partner. Tsaka hello, hindi ba't napag-usapan na natin na kapag tumandang dalaga ako ay may kwarto ako sa pinapatayong bahay niyo dahil aampunin niyo ako? Ako pa ang panganay niyo, anak niyo, at kayo ang mga mom and mommy ko. Dakilang third wheel, 'di ba? Plus, pangarap ko maging rich independent tita ay maging financially stable independent tita pala hindi ko na pinangarap maging mayaman. Kaya tigilan niyo na ang pagre-reto-reto sa akin. Kung may dumating, eh 'di sige, pero kung wala, okay lang, tuloy ang buhay. At hello, 27 pa lang naman ako, hindi pa ako expired, okay? Tsaka may PAGIBIG naman ako na gamit na gamit ko nga at walang mintis na hinuhulugan kada buwan. Also malay niyo kumatok or kusa lumapit yung nakatadhana sa bahay," sabi ni Winter na may ngiting ibinaling na sa totoong pakay niya.

 

Well, Winter will just wait for love to knock on the door or gate na lang sa bahay niya. If mangyari yun she might still believe that she can love.

 

"Winter, gusto mo ba magpatherapy? We can help you," ang biglang bagsak ni Giselle.

 

"Hindi ko kailangan. Hindi ako nababaliw. Okay lang ako. Porket ayaw lang mag jowa ay magpapatherapy na?"

 

Napabuntong hininga na lang sila Ning at Gi. Kaya naging mabuting kaibigan na lang sila na laging inaalala si Winter.

 

Nilabas niya ang box na puno ng Oreo packs na Pokémon limited edition na may kasamang Pokémon card. Win-win para shop at kay Win kasi magagamit na ingredient yung oreo ng frappe and milktea samantala naman makakacocollect ng pokemon cards si Winter. Yung sad na Winter naging happy Winter na. Pokemon enthusiast siya lalo na ng mga pokemon cards na naghuhunting rare cards kaya kung masasabing may financially freedom si Winter?

 

Ay medyo lang kasi masyadong busy si Winter magcollect ng pokemon merch lalo na pokemon cards. Kaya need niya ng extra money para sa hobbies niya kasi ayaw niya bawasan yung ipon niya. Hence, she partnered with Gi and Ning to establish a passive income stream apart from her regular job, enabling her to pursue her hobbies without worrying too much about finances.

 

Winter tore open an Oreo pack at may spark sa mga mata na parang bata na binigyan ng laruan kapag nakakakuha ng pokemon cards. "Bulbasaur, Charmander, Cyndaquil, Dratini, Grookey, Jigglypuff, Lapras, Pancham, Piplup, Rowlet, Sableye, Sandshrew, Snivy, Squirtle, Pikachu, and lastly, Mew," she exclaimed joyfully ng makumpleto niya yung pokemon cards na need niya macollect, carefully placing each card into protective sleeves with meticulous care.

 

"Is the puppy happy now?" Ning's voice broke through Winter's reverie, pulling her back to reality. Winter turned to face Ning, her eyes twinkling with unbridled joy as she nodded enthusiastically, her demeanor akin to a puppy wagging its tail. It was evident in her expression that she was indeed as happy as a contented puppy.

 

Ang hindi alam ni Winter as she busily collected and caught Pokémon cards from the Oreo packs, she unwittingly caught the attention of a rare woman with a black medium wolfcut hair seated at a nearby table. It seemed that this woman had been observing Winter intentlywhile Winter remained blissfully unaware, lost in her own card-collecting world.

 

"Such a cutie, she looks like a puppy nga and her name is Winter," sabi ng babae na may malaking ngiti, patuloy na nakatingin kay Winter habang dahan-dahang umiinom ng kanyang iced americano, gustong manatili pa para masilayan pa si Winter.

 

"Kaso hindi daw siya interested sa romantic relationship? Therapy? She's sick ba?"

 

"Anyway, ayaw iwan ni Ate Wendy yung kupal niya girlfriend sa US kaya ipaparent ko na lang yung lugar ni Ate Wendy," ang balik na chika ni Winter kina Gi at Ning.

 

As Winter narrated her search for tenants, the woman listened intently tila lumalaki yung tenga as if she were on the verge of popping out of her head from sheer curiosity.

 

At para naman sa potential tenant ni Winter, narito ang ilang condition, rules and regulations niya:

1. Only females are allowed to be tenants.
2. The tenant must live alone in the unit.
3. Pets are allowed but tenant must keep their pets clean and be responsible pet owners.
4. Guests are allowed, but having someone stay in the unit for an extended period to the point of practically living there is prohibited, especially without Winter's knowledge.
5. Tenants must adhere to the house rules, including proper waste disposal, maintaining cleanliness, and careful use of facilities.
6. There is a designated quiet time, during which noisy activities must cease after a certain hour in the evening.
7. Any changes to the unit must be requested and approved by Winter beforehand.
8. The unit must be kept tidy and clean at all times. Tapat mo linis mo.

 

"Sure ka magpapatira ka ng iba doon sa 1st floor niyo? Hindi ka ba uncomfortable lalo mas bet mo magisa? Kung hindi ka pa tatawagan ay hindi ka lalabas ng bahay mo," ang ask ni Ning.

 

"Yes, tsaka malakas naman ang kutob ko if may something nakakabother doon sa potential tenant sa baba ng bahay. Sayang din kasi walang tumitira. Tsaka babae lang papayagan ko na tenant. Nabalitaan ko rin kasi madaming naghahanap ng apartment or room for rent around taft. So sakto lang dahil accessible yung bahay na malapit lang sa main road ng taft."

 

Pero biglang nag hesitate si Winter ng magsasalita siya na "Hindi ko na pala ipapare—" ay Ning and Gi glanced at the woman on the other table, their attention caught by the loud voice of the woman speaking on the phone.

 

"Yes, I'm really naghahanap for an apartment or maybe something place for rent around Taft sana. Badly need ko na talaga malapit sa work ko."

 

"Karina, need mo ba ng place?" Giselle inquired, her tone carrying genuine concern as she gestured towards the woman at the other table.

 

Karina glanced in Winter's direction as Giselle continued speaking. "Itong friend namin ay nagpapaupa ng place around Taft area," she pointed out to Winter, and they exchanged glances similar to earlier before entering the coffee shop.

 

Si Karina, isa sa mga loyal customers ng coffee at milk tea shop nina Gi, Ning, at Winter. Mahilig siya sa kape at talagang na-eenjoy niya ang mga offerings ng shop, kaya't palagi siyang bumabalik. Kaya kilala na siya nila Ning at Gi. Lalo na tuwang-tuwang rin si Ning kay Karina especially by Ning who is delighted by Karina's beauty and sunny personality. Karina has a bright aura that charms everyone around her. Ngunit ngayon lang niya napansin si Winter sa shop despite na madalas siya coffee shop.

 

Tinitigan siya ni Winter bago ito nagsalita.

 

"Yes, need mo ba?"

 

"Yes, badly need ko."

 

Pero totoo bang need ni Karina matitirhan around taft?

 

Mukhang okay naman sa kutob ni Winter na mabait si Karina at hindi gagawa ng masama kaya inoffer niya ang pinauupahan niya. Kilala rin naman nila Giselle at Ning kaya confident si Winter. Nagpakilala naman na si Karina kay Winter.

 

"Hi, I'm Karina at Winter ang pangalan mo, right?" Karina made a bright introduction to Winter and sat at the same table with her.

 

Tumayo na sila Ning at Gi dahil dumadami na yung customers. Iniwan na nila sila Karina at Winter para makapagusap.

 

"Ang cute naman ng name mo. Ang cold pero ang hot nung may-ari ng pangalan," ang straight forward na sabi ni Karina pero straight face lang si Winter kaya nahiya si Karina sa sinabi niya.

 

"Anyway, Badly need ko kasi talaga place na malapit sa workplace ko. I'm Marketing specialist kasi and around taft yung workplace ko. Priority ko lalo na safe and private yung place,"

 

Napatingin lang si Winter kay Karina. Habang pinagmamasdan niya ito, parang na-appreciate niya na yung ang ganda ni Karina. Well, umubra yung ang charm ni Karina kay Winter so may himala at totoo nga, sabi ni Winter, never siya nainlove pero alam niya na marunong siyang mag-appreciate ng beauty, lalo na pagdating sa mga babae. Hindi naman siya robot para hindi makaramdam. Mahirap lang talaga para sa kanya na ma-feel yung affection at love romantically.

 

Also napapaisip si Winter na parang kaya naman bumili ni Karina ng isang condo unit dahil sa pagkakaobserve na mukha rich woman si Karina the way gumalaw ito. Naisip na lang ni Winter baka trip lang ni Karina maexpercience yung magrent. Well, maganda naman and cozy yung place ipaparent niya. Wala rin naman siya pake sa personal things ni Karina as long maayos na tenant si Karina at hindi sketchy.

 

But her heart suddenly skipped a beat as she watched Karina purse her pulpy lips, leaving Winter confused. It was the first time in her 27 years that her heart skipped a beat, a feeling she had never experienced with Ning, Gi, or anyone else before.

 

"May dumi ba ako sa face?" Ang tanong ni Karina ng mapansin niyang nakatitig sa kanya si Winter.

 

"W-Wala, nakikinig lang ako sa mga sinasabi mo," Winter replied, shaking off her confusion and returning to reality.

 

"Well, safe naman yung place na ipaparent ko sayo. If interested ka, available ka ba bukas? May work kasi ako kapag Weekdays. Hindi kita maeentertain kasi 5pm kasi uwi ko."

 

Sumangayon naman si Karina na pupuntahan niya yung place ni Winter.

 

"Okay, and pahingi ng number mo and can I add you on social media?"

 

"Sige, Winter Kim sa FB tapos ito number. Madali lang naman makita kasi mukha ko gamit ko tapos wala akong IG."

 

Nagulat si Karina kasi may mga tao pa pala na walang IG. Also hindi rin pala post si Winter sa FB ng maistalk ni Karina and facebook nito.

 

********

 

Winter Kim accepted your friend request.

 

As Karina sat alone in the dimly lit bar, her phone buzzed with notifications. She glanced down and saw that Winter had followed her back on Instagram and Facebook. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips, but she quickly masked it as her friend, Minju, and Yeji approached their table during their Saturday hangout.

 

"Hey! Bakit napapangiti ka diyan?" Minju asked, noticing the subtle change in Karina's expression.

 

Karina shrugged coyly. "Ah, wala lang. Nakita ko lang something sa phone ko," she replied, brushing it off casually.

 

Ayaw pa niya ikwento sa mga friends niya at baka majinx pa at mapurnada.

 

********

 

Kinabukasan...

 

Sunday....

 

Araw na napagusapan nila Winter at Karina. Inabangan ni Winter sa labas ng gate nila si Karina. Nagulat siya sa kotse nito na Mini Cooper, na dream car niya dahil ganun din ang kotse ni Mr. Bean.  Medyo pricey yung kotse ni Karina kaya mas lalong lumaki yung hinala ni Winter na baka trip trip lang ni Karina yung magrent at anak mayaman talaga ito.

 

Winter was even more surprised as she looked at Karina from head to toe, realizing that she indeed had a taste for fashion and exuded a captivating scent.

 

"Kotse mo ba yan?" Ang tanong ni Winter ng lumabas si Karina sa kotse.

 

"Oo, why?"

 

"Hmmm, ipapasok mo yan sa loob at kasya naman if okay sayo place."

 

Pumasok sila and it was the first time for Winter to let a stranger inside. But she wasn't nervous because she felt that Karina wasn't a bad person.

 

She prayed that she and Karina would get along well, hoping that Karina would take the place so she wouldn't have to post and entertain other potential tenants anymore.

 

The apartment exudes an aesthetic charm with its clean lines and minimalist design. Upon entering, you're greeted by an open layout that seamlessly connects the living area, kitchen, and dining space. The large windows allow natural light to flood the room, highlighting the sleek hardwood floors and crisp white walls. A modern bathroom, bedroom, offering both style and functionality.

 

"Ito na yung buong place, may kitchen, banyo, living, at isang kwarto. Maliwalas dito at hindi mainit. Mababait naman yung mga kapitbahay dito kaya safe ka dito. Also nagkabit ako ng CCTV kaya safe talaga. Tsaka malapit lang sa main road, kitang-kita mo naman. Kasama na yung mini ref at microwave pero kailangan ingatan, kasi kung masira, syempre kailangan bayaran. Nalimutan ko sabihin, kasama na rin yung aircon, bagong linis 'yan pero kung may sarili ka, pwede ko naman ipatanggal, sabihin mo lang sa akin. May sariling sub meter ng kuryente at tubig, so kada malapit na yung reading, kukunin ko yung reading ng mga sub meters, then ikakalkula ko yung total na bill ng tubig at kuryente mo. Six months yung lease contract. Isang buwan na deposit, isang buwan na advance." ang showcase ni Winter sa place.

 

"So ito lang pala yung paparerent? Pwede na rin. So yung sa upper floor may nakatira din?"

 

"Oo at ako yung nakatira doon sa taas so private na private dito. Nalimutan ko pwede mo maaccess yung 3rd floor kasi labahan yun at terrace pwede ka magsampay doon."

 

As Winter went over all the rules and regulations with Karina as her tenant, Karina found herself unable to look away, her gaze fixed intensely on Winter. A smile involuntarily played on her lips.

 

"Okay get ko na at mukhang safe naman," ang masayang tango ni Karina.

 

Nagkapirmahan ng contract si Karina at Winter. 6 months yung kinuha ni Karina. Nagbayad na rin si Karina kasi baka maunahan pa siya.

 

"Pwede ka ng lumipat. So ito yung mga susi. Isa sa gate, dalawa sa bahay dahil double lock yan at isa doon sa 3rd floor," ang paliwanag ni Winter sa mga susi na tinakeover ni Karina.

 

"Looking forward ako maging kapitbahay ka Winter also maging landlord," ang super smile ni Karina kay Winter pero hindi pinansin ni Winter.

 

"If may problem or anything concern about sa bahay ay just call, text or katukin mo lang ako. Also friends naman na tayo sa FB. Chat mo lang ako. Lagi lang naman ako nasa taas lalo kapag weekends."

 

After nun iiwan na sana ni Winter si Karina because their business was done. But suddenly, Karina spoke up and invited Winter to have lunch since it was already 11:30 am.

 

"Win, why don't we grab some lunch sa labas. It's already 11:30 am na rin naman," Karina suggested with a friendly smile.

 

Karina decided to shoot her shot.

 

Yes, she didn't really need a place to rent, but she just wanted to be close to Winter.

 

From the moment she laid eyes on Winter, something clicked in her heart and whispered to her mind that she wanted Winter.

 

It's been 4 years since she's been single and she never had any serious interest in someone, especially women. Maybe just flings.

 

Something na parang ang kahibangan kung matuturing but parang kasi may unexplainable connection naramdaman si Karina kay Winter na never niya naramdaman before.

 

Lalo may ugali rin si Karina kapag ginusto niya dapat makuha niya.

 

She wanted to get to know Winter, but Winter seemed kind of intimidating and elusive, especially since she heard from Ning, Gi, and Winter themselves that Winter rarely umaalis mula sa place niya unless kung trabaho o important errands, and minsan mahirap pa mahagilap dahil mas gusto maburo sa loob ng bahay. So when she heard that Winter was renting out a place near hers, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to get closer.

 

But alam niyo? Even after hearing that Winter wasn't keen on romance, Karina played it cool. She was all about respecting boundaries., vibin' with patience and mad understanding. But she couldn't shake off her attraction to Winter, like a magnetic force that just kept pulling her in. But ayaw magmadali baka kasi mausog pa. Also may six months siya to work her magic and get closer to Winter.

 

While Winter finds comfort and fulfillment in her solitary routine, Karina is the complete opposite.

 

Karina, a 28-year-old careerwoman, thrives in the hustle and bustle of social interactions and seeks excitement in every corner. She seeks more connections, especially as she needs them for her career and business.

 

Unlike Winter's predictable mornings, Karina's days are filled with spontaneous adventures and impromptu plans with friends.

 

Karina lives for the thrill of new experiences and is constantly seeking out the next big adventure.

 

Where Winter finds solace in her own company, Karina finds joy in the company of others, effortlessly captivating everyone she meets with her infectious energy and magnetic personality.

 

While Winter prefers the quiet comforts of home and never cross her line, Karina embraces the chaos of the outside the line with open arms, always ready for whatever life throws her way.

 

"Sorry busy kasi ako at may pupuntahan pa. Hinintay lang talaga kita para makapagusap kung mag-go ka here," ang tanggi ni Winter na palusot lang niya pero hindi talaga siya aalis at tamad lang talaga siyang lumabas.

 

"Ganun ba sige. Mauna na ako," ang disappointed na sabi ni Karina but wala naman siya magagawa. Next time na lang siguro kasi hindi gumana yung charm niya kay Winter.

 

********

 

Monday... the start of a week.

 

Winter wakes up at 5 am, stares into space for a bit, goes for a jog, buys pandesal, sips on hot matcha, eats pandesal with cheese spread, takes a shower, brushes her teeth, dresses in her daily office outfit, does her makeup and skincare routine, and follows her organized and unchanged daily routine.

 

Yun nga lang paguwi niya galing trabaho ay nagulat siya.

 

"Nakalipat na pala siya," ang gulat na sabi ni Winter nang makapasok siya sa gate at makita ang isang Mini Cooper na nakaparada sa garahe, kung saan dati ay ang motor niya lamang ang nakaparada. Kasya naman ang motor niya sa gilid, kaya't nakakapagpark pa rin si Winter sa garahe.

 

Napansin pa niya na bukas ang ilaw sa dating bakanteng puwesto ng kanyang ate. Nakakapanibago para sa kanya na dati ay mag-isa lang siya o kasama lamang  niya si ate Wendy sa bahay kapag ito ay uuwi mula sa US.

 

"Good evening, Winter," greeted Karina enthusiastically with a bright smile, wearing a loose white t-shirt paired with shorts, with a bare face and glasses, giving off a casual but still stunning vibe to Winter.

 

Super Pretty niya talaga.

 

"G-good evening din Karina," ang balik na bati ni Winter na nakakapanibago.

 

"Kumain ka na ba?" Ang asked ni Karina na habol niya kay Winter na paakyat sa bahay niya.

 

"Busog pa ako, Karina. Akyat na ako," ang tanggi ni Winter na nalulungot si Karina.

 

Hindi pa kasi sanay si Winter na may makasama. Gusto lang niya ng pera at ok na yung pinakikitunguan niya ng maayos si Karina as tenant. Also cautious pa rin siya kahit makipagkaibigan.

 

"Wait a minute, Winter. Pwede ba mag-exercise doon sa 3rd floor? Like hindi mo pa siya napapakita sa akin," Karina inquired para humaba pa yung convo nila ni Winter.

 

Winter paused, realizing she hadn't shown Karina the 3rd floor yet. "Pwede naman siguro kasi minsan doon ako nag-eexercise," she replied, extending an invitation to Karina to explore.

 

Leading Karina to the 3rd floor, Winter flicked on the lights, and the rooftop terrace came alive with a magical allure. Bathed in soft, ambient glow, it exuded an inviting charm. Lush potted plants added greenery and comfortable seating arrangements promised relaxation under the open open. Hindi malamok at mahangin. Overhead, twinkling fairy lights cast an enchanting glow, creating the perfect tambayan spot.

 

Karina was impressed by how Winter maximized every inch of the space in her not-so-big house. Pinagawa kasi talaga ni Winter at ate Wendy niya na nandoon na lahat sa bahay yung kailangan ni Winter para hindi siya lalabas at may tambayan siya, malayo sa magulong labas at makakatakas siya sa ingay ng mundo.

 

"Yes, nahahati sa dalawang part yung 3rd floor. Yung kalahati ay Labahan at sampayan, at yung kalahati ay rooftop terrace na pwede tambayan, katulad sa mga outdoor hangout na pwede magunwind," Winter explained, showcasing the versatile space.

 

"Wow, ang pretty naman dito kahit yung labahan mo," Karina complimented as she settled comfortably on the sofa that could fit two.

 

"Pwede me here, right?" Karina asked happily as she made herself at home.

 

"Yes, but sana if may visitors ka ay huwag mo ng papuntahin? Dito kasi personal hangout ko kasi ito and pwede ko revoke yung lease contract mo," Winter stated firmly, her arms crossed as she stood beside Karina.

 

"Pero hindi ko sinasabi na hindi pwede visitors lalo na sa place mo. Huwag lang dito kasi madalas ako natambay dito at pang-personal ito," she added, emphasizing the importance of the space to her.

 

"Also pwede ka magexercise here may space naman," ang dagdag niya.

 

"Kung pangpersonal bakit pwede ako here?" Ang asked ni Karina na nakipageye contact kay Winter.

 

Napaisip rin si Winter bakit niya pinayagan magcross the line si Karina sa kanyang personal space, na dating pinapayagan lang niya sina Ning at Gi.

 

"Well, baka need mo magunwind," sagot ni Winter, nag-iisip pa rin kung paano i-express ang nararamdaman.

 

"Okie, don't worry hindi magdadala ng ibang tao dito. Sulit talaga yung rent ko here. Safe and private. Thanks Winter," ang assurance na sabi ni Karina na kahit paano baka makuha niya yung konting trust ni Winter.

 

"By the way, kung magtatagal ka pa here ay  baba na ako. Maiwan na kita," ang paalam ni Winter na gusto pa sana ni Karina makausap si Winter.

 

Pero naisip niya baka pagod na si Winter sa trabaho niya.

 

********

 

Habang nagpapahinga at nagpapaantok ay nagpopup notification ng GC nilang tatlo nila Gi and Ning.

 

Then nagsimula na rin sila Gi at Ning asarin si Winter at iship si Winter kay Karina. Kahit sinabihan sila ni Winter na stop ay hindi parin tumitigil yung magasawa na hanapan ng love life yung tropa nila.

 

[WINTOTOY'S MINIONS]

 

Ningulangot:

[ Niceuuu!! Dalaga na yung wintotoy namin. Sabagay pretty naman si Karina.]

 

Ginbulag:

[ Ayaw daw may kasama pero nung inoffer ko kay Karina ay G ka kaagad.]

 

Wintotoy:

[ Para kayong tanga. Alam ko mga galawan niyo mag-asawa. Syempre mukha mabait naman at maganda naman yung kutob ko sa kanya. And it's turn out na mabait na siya. Ganun na lang ba kayo katakot na maging matandang dalaga ako. Also mas ok na kunin niya at hindi na ako masyado mageentertain ng tenants na hindi naman kukunin. Tsaka 6 months lang naman need ko then matatapos na yung paghulog sa bahay.]

Ginbulag:

[ Or naramdaman mo na yung heart pounding moments na sinasabi mo na gusto mong maramdamdam. We totally caught you giving Karina the googly eyes while you were chatting. First time we've seen you lookin' all mushy like that. Sabihin mo siya na ba yung icing ng cupcake mo? Siguro kaya ayaw mo yung mga nirereto ko kasi kafederation ka rin namin kaya friends tayong tatlo dahil bading ka rin 😂]

Wintotoy:

[ Baliw ayan naman kayo. Maganda na mukhang anghel si Karina for sure baka may boyfriend yun.]

Ginbulag:

[ Sus yung chat mo bhie. Ganyan yung galawan na inaalam kung may jowa yung isang tao na bet nila. Tapos kapag sumagot ng wala ay tuwang-tuwa. May sinasabi ka pang mukhang anghel si Karina.]

 

Ningulangot:

[ Wala boyfriend yun at amoy na amoy ko na bading si Karina. Nachika ko na yung may ex-girlfriend siya but last 4 years ago pa. Tsaka as malakas ang instinct na buntis feeling ko ay bagay kayo ni Karina.]

Wintotoy:

[ Boset HAHAHAHA ang galing niyo talaga sa mga ganyan no? Kulang na lang ipaarrange marriage niyo ko. Tao kami at hindi kami bagay. Tigil mo yang pagsingot mo ng katol 😂. Tsaka bakit sa kanya niyo naman ako nirereto? Mga baluga.]

 

 

********

 

Tuesday....6AM...

 

Karina prepared for her morning exercise routine. She asked if she could exercise on the 3rd floor to kill two birds with one stone—to exercise and maybe catch a glimpse of Winter, giving her a reason to pass by the second floor. However, when she went up to the 2nd floor, she couldn't see Winter and her house was closed.

 

She wondered if Winter had left early. Disappointed, she decided to continue with her exercise. After finishing her workout and going back downstairs, she prepared coffee for her morning boost when she heard the gate, so she went outside.

 

"Good Morning, Winter," bati ni Karina, na umukit na sa labi niya ang ngiti nang makita si Winter papasok ng gate.

 

"Good morning din," ang pasalubong na bati ni Winter, na kita ang pawis at naka form-fitting na moisture-wicking tank top na ipinakikita ang kanyang toned arms at fit physique. High-waisted na running shorts ang suot niya para sa added comfort habang tumatakbo, kasama na ang kanyang reliable na running shoes at sports cap, habang nakasuot din siya ng airpods.

 

"Nagjogging ka?" tanong ni Karina.

 

"Oo," sagot ni Winter.

 

"Ah kaya pala sarado yung 2nd floor. Kakatapos ko lang din kasi mag-exercise," sabi ni Karina, may halong panghihinayang hindi niya nakita si Winter.

 

"Oo kasi around 5:15am nagjo-jogging ako," ang sagot ni Winter na aakyat na ng hinabol siya ni Karina.

 

"Winter, Coffee?"

 

Napapaisip si Winter kasi ang humahalimuyak yung amoy ng kape sa ilong  niya na tinutukso siya.

 

Please Subscribe to read the full chapter