Chapter 28

• Agustine drove for almost an hour before he parked his car in a secluded mini farm. His staff, Miguel, met us when we got off. The two of them talked for a while that I didn't pay attention to because my full attention was taken by the environment. I could feel the tension from earlier melting slightly, replaced by a sense of awe. The air smelled of wet earth and flowers, a fragrance so fresh it made me want to take a deep, uninterrupted breath. The gentle rustling of the leaves above, the faint hum of distant insects, and the soft cooing of birds created a rhythm that calmed the storm in my chest. I realized how long it had been since I had felt this kind of peace, uninterrupted and almost sacred.
• The green trees, colorful flowers, and fresh air touching my skin. I also did not miss the various birds around, there are also manmade aquariums, and many other simple animals. I also saw a swimming pool that was only about ten people in size; in front of it was a two-storey nipa house. Everything was meticulously arranged, yet it retained a natural charm that made it feel lived-in, like the perfect escape from the chaotic city. My fingers itched to reach out and touch the delicate petals of the flowers, to feel the texture of the leaves, to immerse myself in the serenity of it all.
• "Do you like it?" Agustine went to my side and snaked his arm around my waist. His presence made me feel safe, and the warmth of his touch sent a shiver down my spine. I could feel the muscles in his arm relax, the subtle press of his hand grounding me as if he sensed the tension still lingering in my body. The closeness between us was tangible, electric, and yet comfortingly familiar, like a rhythm I had unknowingly been waiting for.