Lina's POV
I woke up to the sound of my alarm, blinking against the early morning light streaming through my window. Today was the day of Theo's highly anticipated comeback album release, and I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. As a director in the music industry, my days were always hectic, but today felt especially significant.
I stretched and got out of bed, my mind already buzzing with the tasks ahead. The morning air was cool, and the city outside my window was just starting to wake up. Manila's skyline was bathed in a soft glow, the early risers beginning their day. I lived in a cozy apartment overlooking Pasig River, a place I had called home for the past few years. It was my sanctuary, a place where I could unwind and gather my thoughts. I glanced at the framed photo on my bedside table—a picture of me and Theo from happier times, both beaming with youthful exuberance.
With a sigh, I got out of bed and started my day. As I brewed my morning coffee, my mind drifted back to the past, to the days when Theo and I first met.
Flashback
I met Theo at a charity gala event in Manila just days after his birthday. He had already been in the industry for a few years, and his popularity steadily rose. The event was grand and filled with influential figures from various fields. I was there as part of my work, documenting the event for a popular magazine.
As I stood near the entrance, camera in hand, I saw Theo walk in. His presence immediately commanded attention. He had an easy smile and a charm that was impossible to ignore. I was captivated, not just by his looks but by the genuine kindness in his eyes.
He was dressed in an all-black suit that exuded sophistication and charisma. The suit was impeccably tailored, emphasizing his tall, athletic frame. A few buttons of his black inner shirt were casually undone, adding a touch of relaxed elegance to his look. The sharp lines of the suit accentuated his broad shoulders and slender waist, while his polished black shoes completed the ensemble with a sense of effortless style. His hair, styled in a slightly curled or wavy see-through dandy cut, framed his face perfectly.
Theo's face featured a warm and expressive countenance. His eyes, framed by thick, expressive brows, twinkled with mischief and kindness. His nose was straight and complimented his well-defined jawline, giving him a confident and approachable appearance. Theo's easy and genuine smile lit up the room as he greeted guests with a natural charm that drew people to him effortlessly. His overall appearance that night conveyed power and grace, making him a magnetic presence amidst the elegant surroundings of the charity gala.
He paused to greet a few people, and then our eyes met.
"Hi, I'm Theo. Theo Amado," he said, extending his hand.
"Nice to meet you! I'm Livana. Livana Hernandez," I replied, nervously shaking his hand. "I'm with the magazine. Would you mind if I took a few photos?"
"Not at all," he said, flashing that easy smile again. "As long as you promise to make me look good."
I laughed. "I don't think that's going to be a problem."
I snapped a few photos as he posed naturally, his charm evident in every shot. After a few minutes, we started talking.
"So, how long have you been in the industry?" I asked, trying to keep my tone professional.
"About five years now," he replied. "It's been a wild ride, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. How about you? How did you get into photography?"
"I've always loved capturing moments," I said. "There's something magical about freezing time, about telling stories through images."
He nodded thoughtfully. "I feel the same way about music. It's like...every song is a story, every performance a chance to connect with people."
Our connection was instantaneous and powerful. We talked for hours, moving from the entrance to a quieter venue corner. The conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on our hopes, dreams, and challenges in our respective fields.
As the night wore on, I couldn't help but voice a concern. "Theo, isn't it risky for you to be seen talking to me like this? Won't it create rumors?"
He grinned, leaning in slightly. "If anyone asks, we'll just tell them you're getting an exclusive interview for your magazine. Besides," he added with a wink, "I'm sure you can spin a good story, right?"
I laughed, shaking my head. "You're something else, Theo."
"And you," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief, "are an excellent conversationalist."
"I admire your passion," Theo said at one point. "It's rare to meet someone so dedicated to their craft."
"Same goes for you," I replied. "Your music is incredible. I can see why you're so successful."
"Thank you," he said, his eyes softening. "But it's not always easy. The pressure, the scrutiny...sometimes it's overwhelming."
"I can imagine," I said, feeling empathy. "But you have a gift, Theo. Don't ever doubt that."
He smiled a genuine, heartfelt smile that made my heart skip a beat. "Thank you, Lina. That means a lot."
Little did I know that this moment would mark the beginning of a significant chapter in both of our lives. Our mutual understanding quickly blossomed into a close friendship and then something more. That night, as we parted ways, I felt a spark of something special—a connection that would change everything.
End of Flashback
I got ready for work, choosing a simple yet elegant outfit that conveyed professionalism and confidence. I grabbed a quick breakfast and headed out, my thoughts drifting back to the first time I met Theo at the charity gala event a year ago. His presence at the gala was a testament to his rising fame. His charisma and talent captivated me, and our paths have intertwined.
I shook myself from my reverie as my phone buzzed with notifications. Social media was ablaze with news of Theo's comeback album. Fans were posting excitedly about his new songs, sharing clips and snippets. My heart ached with a mix of pride and sadness. I had always believed in Theo's talent, but our separation had left a void in my heart.
I arrived at the TV station where Theo's performance would be recorded later that day. The building hummed with activity as staff members hurried about, setting up for the live broadcast. Conversations overlapped with the clatter of equipment being positioned, punctuated by occasional bursts of laughter.
"Morning, Lina! Ready for the show?" one of the technicians grinned as he adjusted a camera.
"Absolutely," I replied, checking my schedule. "Any last-minute adjustments we need to know about?"
"Just waiting on the final set list," he said, tapping his tablet. "Should be here any minute."
I nodded and moved toward the control room, where sound engineers fine-tuned audio levels with focused intensity. "Everything sounding good?" I asked.
"Crystal clear," one of the engineers replied, adjusting a slider. "We're all set."
I smiled, grateful for the dedication of the team. As producers discussed script revisions nearby, I greeted colleagues and exchanged quick updates.
"Hey, Lina, did you catch the dress rehearsal?" a producer asked, reviewing notes. "Everything looked pretty smooth."
"Yes, it did," I said with a nod of agreement. "Let's just make sure we keep it that way."
The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, charged with the energy of live television.
As I prepared my equipment, my thoughts kept drifting back to Theo. I wondered how he was handling the pressure of his comeback and if he was as nervous as he used to be before a big performance.
Flashback
Theo's journey to stardom had been anything but easy. I remembered his countless hours in the studio, perfecting his craft. I had been there for many of those sessions, offering support and encouragement. Our professional relationship had blossomed into a deep friendship, and I had become one of Theo's most trusted confidants.
One evening, after a particularly tough day, Theo had broken down. It was late, and the studio was quiet except for the faint hum of the equipment. Theo sat on the couch, his head in his hands, looking more exhausted than I had ever seen him.
"I don't know if I can do this, Lina," he confessed, his voice choked with emotion. "It's so hard."
I sat down beside him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "What's going on, Theo? Talk to me."
He sighed heavily, lifting his head to meet my eyes. "It's everything. The constant pressure to produce hits, the endless scrutiny from the media, the expectations from fans... Sometimes, it feels like I'm being pulled in many different directions. I don't even know who I am anymore."
His voice was tinged with vulnerability, a stark contrast to the confident persona he usually displayed. I had seen glimpses of this side of him before, but never so raw and exposed.
"I feel like I'm losing myself in all this," he admitted. "The music industry can be so ruthless. One minute, you're on top of the world; the next, you're yesterday's news. I just... I don't know if I can handle it."
I could see the pain in his eyes, the weight of the world pressing down on him. It broke my heart to see him like this. Theo had always been strong and determined, but even the strongest people had their breaking points.
"You can," I said firmly, taking his hand in mine. "Theo, you're the most talented person I know and have a heart of gold. You have a gift that touches people's lives. Don't let the pressures and expectations make you forget why you started in the first place."
He squeezed my hand, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope. "But what if I fail? What if I can't live up to everyone's expectations?"
"Then you'll still have me," I said softly. "I'll be here, supporting you every step of the way. You don't have to do this alone."
My unwavering belief in him had always been his anchor, and he had held onto my words like a lifeline. As we sat in the quiet studio, I felt the tension slowly leaving his body. He leaned back against the couch, his eyes closing momentarily as he took a deep breath.
"Thank you, Lina," he said quietly. "I don't know what I'd do without you."
"You don't have to thank me," I replied. "Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?" he asked, looking at me with curiosity and apprehension.
"Promise me that you'll never give up on your dreams," I said. "No matter how tough it gets or how many obstacles you face, keep going. Because you are meant for greatness, Theo."
He nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I promise."
At that moment, I knew that we would face challenges together no matter what challenges lay ahead. Theo's journey was far from over, and I would be there, supporting him every step of the way—even if I'm not by his side anymore.
End of Flashback
I arrived at the studio and was greeted by a busy shoot's familiar hustle and bustle. I immersed myself in my work, using it to distract me from the whirlwind of emotions. As the day wore on, I couldn't help but check my phone, looking for updates on Theo's performance.
As I checked the final preparations for the broadcast, I couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia. So much had changed since those early days, yet my feelings for Theo remained as strong as ever. I wondered if he felt the same or if the distance and time apart had created an insurmountable rift between us.
Finally, the moment came. Theo was set to perform on a popular music show, and I couldn't resist watching it live. I found a quiet corner in the studio and tuned in just as the hosts introduced him.
Flashback
Theo had always been a natural performer. I recalled one of his significant stage performances in Makati. The anticipation was electric, the air buzzing with excitement. The venue was packed, and the energy was palpable. The lights dimmed, and the crowd hushed in anticipation as the first notes of his song began to play.
Theo stepped onto the stage, and from the moment he took his position, he owned it. His presence was magnetic, drawing everyone in. He moved confidently, his voice clear and powerful, hitting every note perfectly. The audience was captivated, their eyes glued to him as he poured his heart into each lyric. I watched from the wings, my heart swelling with pride.
As he performed, I could see the passion and dedication in his eyes. He was in his element, connecting with the audience in a way that only actual performers can. The cheers and applause grew louder with each song, and I couldn't help but smile, knowing how much this moment meant to him.
After the show, we celebrated his success, the excitement lingering. We found a quiet corner backstage, away from the bustling crowd.
"That was incredible, Theo!" I exclaimed, my eyes shining with pride.
He grinned, his eyes sparkling with joy. "I couldn't have done it without you, Lina. Your support means everything to me."
We laughed and dreamed about the future, sharing our plans and hopes. "One day," he said, raising an imaginary glass, "we'll look back on this moment and see it as the beginning of something truly amazing."
"To the future," I agreed, clinking my imaginary glass with his. "And to always support each other, no matter what."
"Always," he echoed, his smile softening into something more sincere.
As we stood there, basking in his performance's afterglow, I knew this was just the beginning. Theo's talent was undeniable, and I was grateful to be a part of his journey.
End of Flashback
I felt a rush of emotions as I watched Theo step onto the stage. He looked as confident as ever, his presence commanding the attention of everyone in the room. The lights dimmed, and the music started. Theo took a moment to compose himself, then began to sing.
🎶Kung buo na ang 'yong pasya
Na talikuran ang lahat
May magagawa pa ba?
Kung pigilan ba kita
Hanggang sa huli paglaban ka?
Makikinig ka ba?
Sa dapit-hapon ng pag-ibig natin
'di kita kayang iwan🎶
His voice was as captivating as I remembered, each note filled with raw emotion. I felt tears prick at the corners of my eyes. I knew the songs on this album held deep personal meaning for Theo, and hearing them live was beautiful and heartbreaking.
🎶Kung buo na ang 'yong pasya
Na limutin ang mundong
Kailan lang natin binuo
Hindi na ba sapat
Ang pag-ibig na tapat
Na handang ibigay habang-buhay
Sa dapit-hapon ng pag-ibig natin
'di kita kayang iwan🎶
Just as the performance peaked, Theo glanced out over the audience. Our eyes met briefly, and I felt a jolt of recognition. It was as if time had stopped, and all the memories we shared came flooding back.
Flashback
Our relationship had been intense and passionate but also fraught with challenges. Theo's rising fame meant more time apart, and the pressure of the industry took its toll. We had tried to make it work, but the distance and stress eventually became too much.
One evening, we met in a quiet park, hoping to find a solution to our growing problems. The air was tense, and our words were heavy with unspoken fears. As the sun set, our dreams crumbled around us, knowing this conversation would end in a painful farewell.
"I don't know how long I can do this," I said, barely above a whisper. "The pain, the pressure... it's tearing me apart."
Theo reached out, his eyes filled with pain. "Lina, please. We can find a way through this. I can't imagine my life without you."
I shook my head, tears streaming down my face. "It's too much, Atlas. We're drowning in this."
He stepped closer, his hands trembling as he held mine. "You're everything to me. I can't lose you."
I looked at him, my heart shattering with every word. "Sometimes, loving someone means knowing when to let them go. This isn't what love should feel like."
His shoulders slumped in defeat, and I saw the light in his eyes dim as tears slowly falls on his face. "I love you, Lina. Always."
"And I love you, my star" I replied, choking back a sob. "Always." wiping his tears away.
We stood there for an eternity, wrapped in each other's pain. As we parted ways that night, the weight of our decision settled in. Our breakup had been painful, filled with regret and unresolved feelings. I had thrown myself into my work, trying to move on, but a part of me had always wondered what could have been.
I've always been by your side, Atlas but I can't watch you endure these hardships as you reach for the stars this time.
End of Flashback
🎶Dahil may ning-ning p'ang ating bituin
Kung may tulay ay tatawirin
Dahil umiikot pa ang mundo
Ang puso ko'y sa'yo
Ang puso ko'y sayo🎶
🎶Sa dapit-hapon ng pag-ibig natin
'di kita iiwan
Sa dapit-hapon ng pag-ibig natin
'di kita kayang iwan
Hindi kita iiwan
Hindi kita iiwan🎶
As the final notes of Atlas' song faded and the applause erupted, I wiped away a tear that had escaped unnoticed. His performance was breathtaking, and each word and melody was filled with raw emotion. The crowd's thunderous applause reverberated through the studio, a testament to his talent and the connection he forged with his audience. I longed to rush to him and express how incredibly proud I was. His performance had been outstanding—my star was shining brilliantly.
Yet amidst the cheers and adulation, my mind raced with unanswered questions. Did Atlas' catch a glimpse of me in the dimly lit crowd? Could he feel the same surge of emotions that swept through me during our brief eye contact? What did that fleeting connection mean to him? Did he recognize me after all these years? Did he still carry thoughts of our shared past?
Before I could linger too long on these uncertainties, my phone buzzed with a message from my boss, jolting me back to reality. The reminder of the upcoming shoot pulled me away from my reverie. With a deep breath, I composed myself and immersed myself back into the bustling atmosphere of the studio.
Yet, as I busied myself with preparations, the lingering questions persisted. The hope and uncertainty intertwined within me, refusing to fade.
Would our paths cross again, or had too much time irreversibly altered the course of what we once had?