Chapter 33: Ride Home
They walked towards the front door of the clinic together, and as they made their way out of the clinic, Aria still found it a bit difficult to walk comfortably due to her tiredness from the game earlier. Orion noticed this and gently took Aria's sports bag from her shoulder.
"Here, bigay mo bag mo sa akin," Orion offered, slinging the bag over his shoulder. He then looped his arm around Aria's waist to offer support.
"Lean on me. Dahan-dahan lang tayo."
Aria nodded softly, leaning lightly against Orion as they walked. On the inside, Aria got flustered but appreciated Orion's kindness deeply.
As they walked, she couldn't help but feel a warm sense of comfort in Orion's presence.
Meanwhile, Orion noticed his own calmness. Despite being close to Aria and helping her, his heartbeat remained steady. It dawned on him that his feelings for Aria was really similar to those he would have for a little sister—protective, caring, and familial.
'Pero why do I feel like that...?' Orion thought, confused as to why his mood always soured whenever other boys showed care or attention towards Aria.
They arrived at the motor parking just beside the school gate. Orion spotted his motorbike and started it. He held out a hand to help her hop on, his movements gentle and considerate.
"Here, let me assist you," Orion said, offering a supportive hand.
Aria smiled gratefully, taking Orion's hand and settling onto the motorbike seat. She adjusted herself, making sure she was comfortable, while Orion ensured everything was secure and safe for their ride.
Once everything was set, Orion mounted the motorbike himself and started the engine. He glanced back at Aria, checking to see if she was ready.
"Okay, Aria, all set?" Orion asked, his tone caring and reassuring as they prepared to head home.
Aria nodded, giving Orion a confident smile. "Yes, I'm ready. Salamat ulit, Orion."
With a gentle twist of the throttle, he guided the motorbike out of the parking area and onto the road.
As they rode through the familiar streets towards their condominium, Orion maintained a steady pace, mindful of Aria's comfort.
The evening air was cool against their skin, and the sound of the engine hummed softly in the background.
Arriving at their condominium building, Orion slowed down and parked the motorbike. He turned off the engine and glanced at Aria, his expression soft with genuine care.
"Nandito na tayo," Orion said with a smile, helping Aria off the motorbike once they had come to a stop.
As they stood in front of their condominium building, Orion leaned against the motorbike and turned to Aria.
"You know, instead of today, next time ka nalang punta sa room ko para icheck ang sketches, Aria," he suggested.
Aria hesitated for a moment, eager to see Orion's sketches and art, but also feeling a bit unsure. She reluctantly nodded, "Okay, next time then," Aria replied with a small smile.
Orion nodded back, a playful grin tugging at his lips. "Okay, great. Get ready to be blown away sa mga sketches ko Aria," he teased, clearly excited to share his artwork with Aria.
Aria chuckled softly, appreciating Orion's enthusiasm. "I'm looking forward to it kuya Orion," she replied warmly, feeling more at ease with the idea of visiting his room.
Orion noticed Aria called him "kuya Orion" again and gently interrupted her as he assisted her to her room.
"Aria, just call me Orion," he said with a warm smile, his tone gentle but firm.
Aria looked up at him, slightly surprised but nodded in understanding. "Sure, Orion," she replied softly.
Orion smiled warmly at Aria's acknowledgment. "Thanks, Aria," he said softly, appreciating her understanding.
After ensuring Aria was settled in her room, Orion bid her a gentle farewell.
"Goodnight, Aria," he said, giving her a gentle pat on the shoulder before turning to leave.
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