Dear Jhi,
It’s almost the end of Monday.
I’ve been looking at the clock all day, wondering if this would be the day you’d keep your promise.
You said, “Babawi ako sa’yo by Monday.”
I didn’t expect anything grand. I wasn’t waiting for a long phone call. I was simply hoping for a message. Maybe a “Good morning.” Maybe a “I’m okay.” Maybe even a quick “I am back home.”
Anything that would let me know you still remembered me.
But Monday is almost over, and my phone has stayed silent.
I keep wondering where you are. Did you make it back to Manila safely? Are you still traveling? Have you been able to sleep? I honestly don’t know anymore because I no longer know what’s happening in your life.
I know you’re grieving. I know you’re going through something heavy, and I’ve been trying my best to understand. If I were in your shoes, especially if it involved someone I loved, I’d probably be lost too.
That’s why I’ve waited because I believed your words.
I won’t pretend this doesn’t hurt. It does. It really does.
Because silence leaves too much room for questions. Questions that only you can answer.
I want you to know that if you ever need someone to listen, I am here. Still here.
And if one day you finally keep your promise, I will listen. But until then, I’ll stop counting the hours.
Take care of yourself, Jhi.
— Nikka