A Short Love Story

This is not a love story.

Christmas day.  The sun is shining, everybody’s smiling. Indeed, everyone is in a light mood.

She went out with her family to the nearest mall to have some quality time together. It has been ages since they last went out. Like most families, they had issues – issues they are slowly recovering from. Nonetheless, they had fun. Sharing a single bucket popcorn in the cinema while watching the most in demand film of the season, they laughed as if nothing is ever important aside from being together. All of them are bothered, trivial concerns or not, each has his own share of burden.

Alas, it is the time to go home. They had a very tiring day, walking, shopping, and walking again. Walking side by side with her mom, she is oblivious to all the people around. Nothing is surprising. It’s Christmas day. True enough, the mall is filled with oh-so many nameless faces. As she is about to go to the exit, she heard, “Pst!" Instincts told her to look at the direction where the voice is coming from. Everything stopped. The moment stilled. Suddenly, there was just him and her. That’s why she looked even though she hasn't heard her name called.  Deep in her heart, she knew the voice. Deep in her heart, she knew that there is that little chance that they will meet. Indeed, it was him.

How long has it been since she last saw him? How long has it been since she has heard his voice? Has it been less than two months? Oh she has lost count. But it seems like it was such a long time ago.

Though the world seemed to stop, it didn’t actually. On impulse, she focused on the face of his caller and smiled. Smiled like they were very good friends. Then that was it. There was even no stopping to talk to each other and even say a little “hi” or “hello”.

After the realization struck her senses, she felt a hard pang on her chest. Question like, “Why the hell did I smile?,”  occurred to her. “It’s instinct,” she deliberated.

A lot of questions arose again. Questions she very well know that will remain unanswered. But she felt good inside. After everything, she felt light. Maybe, maybe it’s her Christmas wish… or the Lord’s way of helping her.  A step in getting the closure she wanted.