Pasco knew he couldn't compete with Filex—not directly. So instead, he decided to take a different approach: proving he had changed. He started by reconnecting with old friends in Phnom Penh, volunteering at community projects, and attending local events in hopes of crossing paths with
Debbie. At first, it felt futile. She was always just out of reach. But one day, while Pasco was helping to renovate a youth center, Debbie walked in with a group of students she was tutoring.
Their eyes met across the room, and for a moment,
everything else faded. Pasco stood frozen, paintbrush in hand, while Debbie hesitated by the door.
"Hi," he managed, his voice barely audible.
Debbie gave a small nod. "Hi."
As the day went on, they exchanged only a few words, but Pasco couldn't shake the feeling that he had been given a second chance to show her he was different.
Later that evening, he sent her a simple message:
"Thank you for stopping by today. I hope we can talk soon—on your terms."
Debbie stared at the message for a long time before replying.
"Maybe. I'll let you know."
It wasn't much, but for Pasco, it was enough to keep hoping.