RAYDEN'S POV
With just three hours left before the live LOVESTRUCK Finale was set to air, I found myself in the dressing room, my mind restless and preoccupied. My thoughts were consumed by Sidney, her presence—or rather, her absence—weighing heavily on me. I had caused her so much pain, and inflicted wounds that I didn't intend to. Regret gnawed at me like a persistent ache and the weight of responsibility for the choices I had made felt like an anchor pulling me down.
I glanced at the clock, my fingers tapping a restless rhythm on the table. Sidney's absence left a void that I couldn't fill. It wasn't just about me anymore; my decisions were intertwined with my family's reputation, the station's reputation, and most importantly, Sidney's well-being.
I let out a sigh, feeling an undeniable attraction to Sidney that went beyond the superficial. It was in the way she carried herself, the fire in her eyes, and the fierce determination that radiated from her. A smile played at the corner of my lips as I remembered our interactions, the way her laughter had a way of lighting up a room, and how her mere presence had the power to pull me out of my own thoughts.
But now, as I sat alone in the dressing room, I grappled with the turmoil within me. Should I hope for Sidney's attendance at the finale? Or should I wish for her to be spared from the chaos that surrounded the event? The truth was, I wanted her there. I wanted to see her, to feel her presence, and to know that she was okay despite everything.
I leaned back in the chair, my mind replaying the moments we had shared. Her vulnerability, her strength—it all drew me in like a moth to a flame. I wanted to be there for her, to support her in whatever decision she made, even if it meant setting my own feelings aside.
The dressing room was abuzz with activity, the makeup artist and stylist moving around with purpose. But my attention was fixed on my own inner battle. I closed my eyes momentarily, trying to quell the unease that churned within me. The final show was approaching, and the pressure was mounting. But above all, the desire to see Sidney again was the most potent force driving me.
As the minutes ticked by, the dressing room door swung open, and Lynne entered. She waited until the makeup artist and stylist left, and then her gaze met mine. There was a depth of understanding in her eyes, a silent acknowledgment of the turmoil I was grappling with.
"We can't reach Sidney," Lynne said softly, concern etching her features.
I ran a hand through my hair, feeling a mixture of frustration and helplessness. "If she's meant to be here, she'll come," I replied, my voice steady despite the conflict within me. I wished I could share my feelings with Lynne, let her know the extent of my internal struggle, but some battles were meant to be fought alone.
Lynne hesitated, her eyes lingering on mine for a moment longer. "Rayden, you care about her a lot, don't you?"
I met her gaze, my eyes reflecting the truth she sought. "More than I ever thought possible."
Lynnne's lips curved into a sympathetic smile, a silent reassurance that she understood. She knew the depth of my feelings, and the pull that Sidney had on me. It was a connection that went beyond the confines of the reality show, a connection that had become a part of who I was.
As Lynne left the room, I was left alone with my thoughts once more. The television screen in front of me displayed the ongoing preparations, the world outside the dressing room bustling with activity. And amid it all, there was Sidney—elusive, yet ever-present in my thoughts.
I knew that whatever happened, whatever choices were made, I wanted to be there for her. Even if it meant facing my own fears and uncertainties, even if it meant navigating the complex web of emotions that tied us together. Because when it came down to it, Sidney wasn't just a contestant on a reality show; she was someone who had captured my heart in ways I couldn't fully comprehend.
The minutes ticked away, I couldn't help but hope that she would make the decision that was right for her, even if it meant facing the spotlight and the chaos that awaited her at the LOVESTRUCK Finale.
***
SIDNEY'S POV
With just an hour to go before the LOVESTRUCK finale was set to air, the bus I was on arrived in Manila. Tiya Iya, Margo, and Cynthia, ever the eager supporters, had insisted on accompanying me for the live broadcast of the highly anticipated TV show.
I quickly dialed Meg's number, seeking her comforting presence to ease my nerves. "Meg, I'm at the bus station in Cubao. Could you possibly help me out?"
As the bus pulled into the station, I spotted Meg and Migs waiting for me. Their smiles were a reassuring sight, and Migs had already arranged a ride for us, complete with the willing help of his cousin Riss.
The countdown to the final episode had begun, with just four hours to spare. The LOVESTRUCK team had been trying to reach me, probably to ensure that I would be present at the momentous event.
I sat in the back of Migs' mini-van, flanked by Tiya Iya on one side and the siblings on the other. The nerves were taking their toll, and I couldn't help but stammer as I asked, "So, h-how and w-where do we start?"
Meg's calming presence beside Migs was a comfort as she spoke up, offering reassurance. "Don't worry, Sidney. We've got everything under control. Migs' cousin, Riss, who happens to be a big fan of yours, volunteered to take care of your makeup and design your gown."
Almost an hour later, we arrived at Riss' upscale fashion boutique. To my surprise, Riss was actually the owner of D' Ocampo, a luxury fashion brand known for its exclusivity and sophistication. I hadn't realized that Migs had connections to such a prestigious designer. Then again, Migs had always been modest about his family's wealth and influence.
Meg must have sensed my astonishment and decided to elaborate, saying, "I only found out recently as well, Sid. You know how Migs is—he doesn't flaunt his family's background or assets."
Migs glanced at me through the rearview mirror and offered an apologetic look before explaining, "I'm just not used to talking about those things. But when you needed help, I found out that Riss is a big fan of yours and she insisted on helping you get ready for the finale, even if it went against the production team's plans."
"I've met Riss before, Sid. You'll love her!" Meg chimed in with an excited grin.
"Will she be dressing us up too?" Margo couldn't contain her curiosity and enthusiasm.
"Margo!" Tiya Iya playfully scolded her daughter while sharing a knowing smile with me.
"Don't worry, Tita. Riss won't let us leave her boutique without making sure we're perfectly prepared. She'll take care of everything, especially for Sidney."
The siblings exchanged amused glances at Meg's response, and Tiya Iya's expression softened, showing her approval.
Posit and Margo eagerly disembarked from the van and headed towards the entrance of D' Ocampo.
We were warmly welcomed by a woman standing at around 5'3", her eyes sparkling with excitement as she extended her hand in greeting. With her fair skin and flawless complexion, she exuded an effortless charm. Her attire—a black halter dress paired with white Gucci pumps—perfectly complemented her radiant smile. She seemed to embody sophistication while maintaining a genuine warmth that put me at ease.
"Sidney!" Her eyes lit up with genuine delight as she reached out to hug me, enveloping me in an unexpectedly tight embrace.
I reciprocated the hug, feeling a sense of comfort in her presence.
When we finally pulled away, Riss' expression was still filled with admiration. "I've been looking forward to meeting you—the girl in the black dress, the one who cracked a dragon's ball, the trendsetter!"
"See, she's your biggest fan!" Meg teased from behind me.
A soft blush colored my cheeks, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of embarrassment. Riss' infectious enthusiasm and genuine support were incredibly touching, and it was evident from the staff members around us that her admiration had influenced them as well.
"Thank you so much, Riss, for everything," I said sincerely, my smile reflecting my gratitude.
"I'll gladly accept your thanks, but let's skip the formalities, shall we?"
"S-sure, Riss!"
"Great! Now let's get started on making you shine for the final episode!" Riss' eyes sparkled with excitement, and she clapped her hands with enthusiasm, infusing the atmosphere with energy and anticipation.
***
RAYDEN'S POV
The spotlight hit me like a freight train. I plastered a smile on my face, but deep down, I knew it didn't quite reach my eyes. The camera flashes went off in a frenzy, the audience's cheers and screams echoed in my ears, and the atmosphere was electric. I registered all of it, yet I was numb to the sensation.
Damn, I wish I could see her right now. In this moment, I really wish I could see her. Maybe her presence could tip the scales for me. I need to see her!
Thoughts of her consumed me as I strolled down the red carpet, and the live broadcast of the finale kicked off. There was even an elaborate opening dance number, but I barely noticed the performers, the music, or the glittering lights. All I could think about was her.
As I made my way towards the stage, adorned like some sort of opulent throne, I found myself locked in a silent internal battle. The other contestants were being introduced one by one—Sylvia, Cess, Isabel, Michelle... "and Michelle," Serafin's voice announced with a touch of emphasis. They were all dressed to impress, exuding elegance and charm, but my attention remained elsewhere. Sidney wasn't there?
That could only mean one thing—Sidney hadn't shown up. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. It left just two choices on the table, neither of which felt right at this moment. I wished there was a third option.
Oh, how I wished.
A heavy feeling settled over me, and I found myself staring at the ground, clenching my fists, biting my lower lip, and closing my eyes briefly to shut out the world around me.
Suddenly, a deafening roar erupted from the live audience, jolting me out of my thoughts. The cheers were thunderous, and for a moment, they drowned out everything else. What was causing all this commotion?