Evolving from a main-sequence star, they expand and turn Rhed in color, massive, and is undeniably huge. Like all other stars, they release a high amount of energy, but after millions of years, they start to burn helium into their core, then carbon. This continues with heavier and heavier elements until the star contains a core of iron.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
"What about that one. That bright one," I asked Clue the third time.
We're back on the cliff near Clue's house, feeling the cold wind blow as we both lie beneath the nighttime sky, my other arm under Clue's head, watching and discussing every star that I point to.
"Didn't I already tell you that?" he said.
"No. Or perhaps you've told me, but I've forgotten. And you can't blame me since I'm not the one with hyperthymesia, "I remarked while gazing at the man next to me.
"Still with your excuses," he responded. "By the way, that one is the Polaris."
I looked at the star, then back at Clue, baffled.
"Polaris? Do you mean like the name of my page?"
"Yes. Exactly, that was it. And additional information it was also called the Northstar,"
"Really, why?"
"Because, well, the name says it all. I'll show you, common, " he gets up and faces Polaris, waiting for me to do the same. "Come to a halt and extend your arms."
"Like this?" I said, halting.
"Spread it further," situating behind me, he murmured softly, almost in a whisper as he guided my hands. "When you face Polaris and extend your arms like this, your right-hand points east, and your left-hand points west."
As we are in this position, I stare at Clue. Paying close attention as he explains more. "During ancient times, it was used by the people to navigate, to find their way home," He says, though he is no longer gazing at the star, he is also looking at me.
"Clue?"
"hmm?"
"To me, you are Polaris,"
"What do you mean?"
"You are aware that I was previously lost and am unable to retrace my steps. But then you entered my life, and like Polaris, you showed me the path back, "I said, unconcerned by the chilly wind swaying the trees around us.
"You always make everything so special, you know?" He said, and I can see him blushing.
"But I... well... I'm not Polaris."
"You are not Polaris, but you are by far the brightest star to shine in my sky,"
"That's it? That's your line? I can't believe you, Clue," I snort. "You know what, it is getting cold now. Let's go inside the tent and sleep," I suggested.
We went inside the tent and lay down. But sleep did not come; instead, the wind blew stronger as I tried to close my eyes.
"Are you still awake?" I heard Clue whispers.
"Yes, why?" I respond, turning my body to face him.
"Aren't we going to tell them?" he asked worriedly.
"Tell what?"
"About us being together," he replied, a little wearily. "It's just been a week since you introduced me to your mother, and we're always seen together at university. Even Arah and Patrick were questioning me, and I had no idea what I would tell them. And then there's... Jade."
"Let me tell you something. You know I'm not much into telling people what I'm up to. I don't owe anyone an explanation," I said, my gaze fixed into him. "However, if it offers you peace of mind. You are welcome to tell your friends about us."
"Really? You're not worried that someone will make fun of you because you're in a relationship with a boy?" he exclaimed.
"No, and I am not in a relationship with a boy. I am in a relationship with the one I love, and it doesn't matter if it's a he or a she or they. I believe all loves are equal," I said, giving him a peck on the forehead.
"Thank you so much, Rhed."
"Let's sleep now, okay?"
He just nodded and wraps his hand around me, and I also did the same.
#
- Cluefer Alcantara -
"Are you saying the rumors are true?" Arah probed as I told her that Rhed and I were actually together. "That you and Rhed are dating?" she practically whispers, trying not to be overheard by the other students in the cafeteria.
"Yes. It's true, so stop annoying me about this anymore, okay?" I told Arah, who is still in disbelief.
"Okay, but always remember, I'm happy for you now, Clue,"
"I know. Thank you, by the way,"
"So, are you going to like... announce it?"
"No. It's just the reason I told you is you asked, and just like what Rhed said, what they see is what they get."
"You actually have a point there," she agrees.
"Are you doing something so important that you didn't have the time to reply to my messages?" Rhed comes, and the other students, as predicted, watch him as he walks in my direction.
"Oh, my phone died. I'm sorry,"
"Perhaps a charger?"
"Hey, who hurt you today?" I asked him, noticing his temper.
"No one, I'm just messing with you," Rhed said, messing my hair.
Arah was just watching us have this cat-dog conversation while all other students came back into their businesses.
"I think I'm not needed here anymore so, please excuse me," she said, gathering her things and went out of the cafeteria.
"So you already tell her, I guess?" he asked, slurping my drink.
"Yes. She keeps bugging me, so I told her. You don't mind it, do you?"
"No, it's fine. What I am worried about is Jade. Do you have any chance to talk to him?"
"I'm also thinking the same thing. But he still avoids me,"
"Then I think it's not your fault anymore."
"But I felt like I have to talk to him about it," I said, concerned. "Jade has been my friend since we were in high school, and I'll feel bad if we'd end up being strangers."
"Then you better tell him immediately if that's what brings you peace. Because now that you've told Arah, I know that it would eventually spread over the university."
"Yeah. I know," I said after a deep sigh. "So, what are you free later?"
"If you want to go stargazing again, I think we need to reschedule that," he said. "Pre-Final exam is next week, so I believe we have to review."
"No. I mean, I want to eat at Briner's again," I remarked.
"Oh, okay, let's eat there later."
After about fifteen minutes, I invite him to go home so we can stay there before we eat at Briner's.
"You don't have classes anymore, do you?" even though I've memorized his schedule, I still asked him, just to be sure.
"Yeah, I don't have classes anymore today. Why do you ask?"
"Let's go to your place. It's easier to go to Briner's if we came from there,"
"Sure,"
But before we went out of the cafeteria, a group of students causes a little commotion blocking the door. One of them spills drinks on the other, so we wait for them to settle before we can pass through the door.
When we're finally outside that cafeteria, he says something that makes my heart skip a beat.
"Hey, can I hold your hand?"
I just looked at him first then turned to look around. Rhed sees this and maybe thinks that I'm still not ready for this, but I'm just surprised.
"But you don't have to if you're not comfortable," he said as he resumes walking.
"Hey, no. It's not like that. It's just... is it really okay with you?"
"I'm done worrying about what people think of me a long time ago so, holding hands with the person I like isn't really an issue," he straightly said.
"Well, if that's the case, give me your hand then," with that note, he gives his hand, and I holds it as we make our way towards the parking lot.
These gestures did not escape the prying eyes of some students we came across, they stared, and I even noticed some of them taking pictures using their phones. I looked at Rhed, but he was unbothered, just like what he said, so I did the same.
"Bring your car, so you can go home tonight," he told him in a serious tone.
"Okay, fine. Let's go,"
When we are finally at Rhed's house, both sitting in the living area and watching Harry Potter for the nth time, according to Rhed, he asked a question I wasn't prepared to answer.
"So, how are you and your parents now?" Rhed wasn't departing his gaze on the TV, but I know he was aware that the question brings me uncomfort.
"What makes you ask that all of a sudden?" I asked seriously.
"Well, I'm just wondering how are you going to tell them about us?" This time he looked at me, waiting for an answer.
I just stared back, and again I lost words. I don't have the time to think of it because I was amused being with Rhed. Even the fact that I would need to go to Canada in a few months slips into my mind, at least until now.
"I... I don't know, Rhed, I haven't been able to think about it,"
"Well, I think it's time that you tell them what you really want,"
"It's not that easy, you know that,"
"Yes, I know but, It wouldn't be easier if you don't tell them. Besides, it is just months before graduation and... You know what I mean, right?"
I just let out a contented sigh making Rhed move closer to me and hold my hands again.
"But you know, whatever your decision is, remember that nothing will change between us," he said, kissing the back of my hand.
There I didn't speak. The thought of the things that will happen after we graduate bothers me. I wasn't ready for any of this. But I don't want it to end. Rhed, suddenly coming into my life isn't part of what is supposed to happen, but it is also the part that I didn't want to erase.
I was so deep in this thought when I heard my stomach crumbles.
"Hey common, you're hungry," he told me, standing up.
"Yeah, and let me drive this time, okay?"
"Sure if you insist,"
We left the house and went to Briners's using my car.
"Good evening, Mrs. Mich. Can we have the usual, please?" I said as we enter the restaurant.
"Hey, Rhed, good evening Clue, I haven't seen you for a while. Have you been busy?" Mrs. Mich asked them.
"Well, the usual, graduating students are the busiest," Rhed smiled.
"But that's good. It means your parent's money isn't wasted, right?" Mrs. Mich said, turning to me.
"Yes, Mrs. Mich, of course," I answered, trying to be cheerful.
"So you two settle on your spot, and I'll have them prepare your foods,"
We sat at the table near the window. It was Rhed's usual spot before. But now that he's always with me, it has become our usual spot.
"So tell me, when you have exams, you get all the answers correct, right?" Rhed asked out of nowhere. Maybe trying to divert my thought from what I'm currently thinking.
"What? That question was so random," I said, laughing a bit.
"I'm serious. I mean, if you told me that you remember everything and you didn't miss a detail, that means you can remember everything that you've reviewed?"
"Technically, yes," I said. "But it was way easier back when I was in elementary and high school and on my freshman year because the subjects are more on memorization. Sometimes I don't even have to study for exams. I just remember everything that has been discussed. But now it was different, most of the questions are situational and case studies or application of theories, and that's where I lose,"
"Okay, but how do you usually review your notes?"
"I just read them, and I can remember them, and when I lost words to say on my essay, I usually just insert something from my notes. It sometimes does the trick."
Our conversation was interrupted by the waitress bringing the food.
"So, are we going to the mountains after the exam?" Rhed commented while we are eating.
"For what?" I asked.
"I thought you don't forget a thing? Stargazing, what else," he emphasized.
"Oh, yeah, that. Okay, sure, we can do that after exams."
After we had our dinner, we went back to Rhed's place and stayed there.
"Hey, Clue, can I upload this picture on Polaris?" he asked me, showing my photo. It was the photo that he took when we are on the lake.
"Sure but, do you want people to know that the page is yours?"
"I honestly don't care about other people. That's why I only asked you," he said.
"Okay then, you may upload it," I agreed.
One moment later, my phone beeps. I looked at it and saw that it was a notification from Facebook. Rhed uploaded the picture, and he even tagged me.
"Hey, you even tag me, huh?" I said, smiling.
"Of course, you're my Polaris, remember?"
#
- Cluefer Alcantara -
It was almost eleven in the evening when I decided to go home. At first, I wanted to stay there, but Rhed insist that I need to go. I arrived at our house, and there I saw my mother was again in the living room. I assumes that she was waiting for me. It makes me wonder if she always does it, even during the night when I chose not to go home.
Instead of going straight to my room, I find myself walking towards my mother, who was strangely looking at me, maybe confused by this gesture.
"Aren't you going to bed? It's almost midnight?" she asked.
"What about you? Why are you still awake?" I asked in return. And wonder why I suddenly feel guilty.
"I'm waiting for you. What else it could be?" she said in an obvious tone.
"Do you always do this? Waiting for me?" I asked once again. This time I avoid looking directly at her.
"Yes, I always wait for my son every night," her answer pierce through me. And it pierces deep as guilt wholly covered me. This is the first night that I felt something like this. I felt awful and selfish.
"What about if I don't go home? What do you do?"
"I still wait. Until the sunrise. That's why I always tell you to call me if you cant get home so I can sleep knowing that you're not in trouble,"
"Is that so? Not because you want me to go home already?"
"Of course not. I've seen how your dad treated you, and I am telling you I experienced it way before you do. That's why I understand you. And that is also the reason why I let you do what you want now," mom told me. "The only thing that I want you to do is to at least inform me."
"I... I thought dad was the one who tells you to control me."
"Yes, he does, but I can't. I can't bear to control my son, to tell him what he need to do," the intensity of the conversation is really hitting me hard. I am not ready to know this. "Who do you think convinces your father that it's better for you to study here?"
"But I don't know. Why didn't you tell me?"
"For what? I want you to at least be free," she stands up and walks towards me.
"But that I also want you to know that that isn't permanent," like a concrete dropped in my stomach, I came to realize again that in no time, I might need to leave after graduation. It wasn't an option. And I don't have the right to choose.
"Why is dad like that?" I blurted out, now looking straight to mom.
"For the past years that we've been married, I never seen him loose a deal. I've never seen him fail, and I never see him lost. And I know that he won't be anytime soon, especially with his son. That Cluefer is the thing that I want you to understand."
I was again speechless, a lot of things are going into my mind, and the worst is I cannot take this conversation out.
"I... I should be going to bed, mom," I said.
"Okay, I'll just stay here for some time. Good night,"
"Good night mom," I think it was the first time that I bid his mother good night, but still, it doesn't take away the guilt inside of me as he thinks of how many sleepless nights she had just to wait for me.
I entered my room and went directly into the terrace. It was a full moon tonight, and the wind blows the cloud fast as they journey to the sky. But even if that's the case, I can still see Polaris and eventually think about Rhed. I believe that I should tell him, but I was afraid of what he would say about me leaving.
With that in mind, I looked up into the sky, and just like what we did on the lake, I asked the stars.
"Can you help me decide what to do?" I whisper.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
I still can't sleep after Clue leaves. There was something that bothers me. I was checking my Facebook page and saw countless comments on my recent posts. Most of them are students from the university. Most are good, but there are also comments that are not too good. But one particular short comment caught my attention. It was from an account named Jade Lou Anderson.
[So this is why] I read it as I make my way to the kitchen to drink water.
"Is this Jade?" I asked myself.
I was aware that Jade felt something to Clue, and I think he already know that he knew about our relationship. But I was not worried about myself. I'm concerned about Clue.
I don't know how they will become friends again, especially now that Clue and I are together.
With this thought, I went to open my window. It was past midnight, and the wind is chilly, not expected on a near summer night. I looked above as it also became my habit to occasionally watch the sky and the stars. The moon was shining brightly but dimmed by the passing clouds, but the stars are still clearly visible. Quitely, I recites the name of the stars remembering how Clue explained them.
"This is the Orion, and this is Bellatrix... Betelgeuse, and Polaris. The Northstar." I stop and look at Polaris, thinking about Clue.
"My Polaris,"
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
The following week had been difficult for me. It was exam week, and as seniors, we had to take these exams seriously. Even though Clue and I go over our notes together, I still find the exams difficult. But now that the last day of the exam is over, I'm just sitting on a bench near the pool area, waiting for Clue.
I am busy checking my phone when a familiar student caught my attention. It was Jade making his way to the swimming pool area. I didn't waste any time and rushed towards him to talk.
"Hey, Jade, can we talk?" I said, trying to catch up with him.
He turned, and as he saw me, his perplexed look turned stern.
"What do you want?" he asked.
"I... I just want to talk about Clue,"
"What about him? I had nothing to do with him anymore, so stop bothering me," then he attempt to leave.
"But, he wanted to clear things up. He wanted you to be friends again,"
"Are you sure? How sure are you that that's what he wants?" he asked sarcastically, making a step closer to me, but I didn't move. "Tell me, Rhed, what's going on with you two?" he asked.
"We're... together now but...,"
"So it's true then? What I heard is true. Now I know why he rejected me,"
"No, I don't think it's fair to say that. You've known him for a long time, and I don't think that you actually think that," I said as I try to make him understand.
"Then what? Are you going to say that he isn't ready that time or the fact that he isn't really just into me?" he said, clutching his fist. "Wait, no. Don't answer. I don't want to hear it. I'm not interested, Rhed. Just leave me alone."
He didn't wait for me to say anything more. He turned around and walks briskly as if something was chasing him.
"Hey Rhed, what are you doing here?" Clue called me from behind.
"I'm waiting for you, done on your exams?" I asked.
"Yes, the last one was a bit tough, but I think I did good," he said confidently.
As we walked towards the parking lot, I told him about the conversation I had with Jade.
"I talked to Jade just a while ago," I said, making him stop walking.
"You do? What did you say?"
"I tried to explain your side, but he didn't give me a chance. I was left there outside the pool area embarrassed."
"I'm sorry you have to do that but, just let me handle Jade, okay. I know him. He just needs a little time."
"I guess I don't have any choice now, I give it a shot but didn't succeed, so I'll leave it to you," I agreed.
"So, are you ready for tomorrow?" he asked excitedly.
"Of course, I am. I am always excited whenever I'm with you," I replied, messing his hair again.
"But are you sure that it's fine for us to camp there alone?"
"Yes, I'm sure, the only thing that worries me is the hike will be tricky, but the campsite is really worth it, I promise," I assured. "And the mountain range is protected by the forest rangers, so we really don't have to worry.
"Okay, Mr. Forest ranger," Clue said in salute, trying to tease me again.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
I just finished packing the things for our mountain trip, and now I'm just patiently waiting for Clue. I looked at my watch, and it says that it was already half past one in the afternoon.
I turned around after I heard the front door open, and there he walks in carrying a huge bag.
"I'm sorry, I'm late. Heavy traffic," he apologized.
"I'm used to it. Don't worry," I said. "So, shall we go then?"
"Are we going to use the motorbike again?" he asked, almost sounding like worrying.
"No, we have many things to bring, and the mountain is too far for me to drive the motorbike. Let's take my car this time,"
"Okay, let's go then,"
Having the sun shining brightly as we paved the road, I see that Clue is looking drowsy. But before he fell asleep, he called someone on his phone. I just observed him, a little curious about who is he gonna call.
"Hello, mom," he said. Making my feelings ease.
[Clue, why did you call? Is there a problem?] I heard her ask.
"No, nothing's wrong. I just want you to know that I won't be going home tonight. I'm staying over at my friend's house."
[O... Okay, sure. I mean, why are you telling this to me?]
"I... just wanted you to not wait for me tonight so that you can rest early. I'm sure to go home by tomorrow," I'm pretending that I'm not paying attention to their conversation, but the truth is I am glad that finally, his relationship with his mom is getting better.
[Okay then, take care. See you tomorrow]
"You also take care, mom,"
I can't help to smile so wide that Clue wasn't able not to notice it.
"Why are you smiling?" he asked me, but he too was grinning.
"I don't know," I said teasingly.
"Crazy,"
"Let's just say that I'm happy that you and your mom are getting better now," I said.
"Well, I guess so. We finally got a chance to talk,"
"What about you, father?"
"That I can't tell you because I haven't had the opportunity to talk to him like a father. Whenever we talked, I felt that I wasn't his kid but rather his employee. And he always talks about me going to...." he didn't continue. I supposed he wasn't ready to bring it up again. And I actually am not ready to think about it now. I felt that there would be a perfect time for us to talk about it. Now, all we have to do is enjoy our time together as we both know it might be over soon.
"How long till we get there?" he asked, yawning.
"Estimated time of arrival is still one hour, why do you ask?"
"So that I can sleep. It's too hot," he replied, reclining his seat, trying to fall asleep.
"Okay, I'll just wake you up when we get there," I said.
He had fallen asleep fast, making me drive a little slower, careful not to wake him up. An hour and a half later, we had finally arrived at the area where we should leave our car and began trekking.
"We're here, Clue. Wake up," I said, tapping his shoulder.
Clue's eyes shot open, surprised as I am. It was a beauty in a serene forest where the only thing we could see was all green and birds chirping deep in the thick forest surrounding the mountain. And from there, I can also hear a waterfall cascading from the trees.
"Hey, how did you find this again. It's so beautiful and fresh and green," he asked me.
"I remembered that we also camp here. Me and my cousins back when we were in high school, but I haven't been able to get back because, you know, college," I explained.
"You really had many connections, huh?"
"I don't. It's just coincidence," I said, messing his hair and wrapping my arms around his shoulder.
"So what's next? It's getting late, and I don't really want to walk in the middle of the forest at night,"
"Let's go there. I called here yesterday to book a tour guide, so they should be here,"
We walked towards a hut near the parking lot, and there I saw a man probably in his forties.
"Good morning sir, how can I help you?"
"Hello, mister. I called yesterday for a guide up to the campsite?"
"Oh, you are Mr. Vasquez then?"
"Yes, sir, Rhed Vasquez," I said, offering a handshake.
"Okay, sir, I am Sherwin, but you can call me Mr. Win, and I will be your tour guide today," Mr. Win said. "So, are you ready?"
"Sure," I looked back at Clue and asked him. "Are you ready?"
"Yes, of course. Let's go," he excitedly said, following Mr. Win, who helped us in carrying some of our things.
"May I ask why is it that it's only the two of you?" Mr. Win asked as we follow him traced the path inside the thick forest. "Normally teenagers who come here are in groups who want adventure or oftentimes they are alone, and they want to find themselves."
"Really, well, it's just... We wanted to do this just only the two of us, right Rhed?" Clue said.
"Yes, and besides, we don't have that many friends. That's why it's just the two of us."
"Well, that's what I say. In our work, we always encounter something new," Mr. Win said.
"So, how long does it take for us to get there?" Clue, who is beginning to get tired, asked the tour guide.
"I think we are able to arrive there just before the sunset, and don't worry, this area is protected by a lot of forest rangers," Mr. Win assured as we continue to follow the rocky trail.
"At last," Clue sighed as he put down the things he is carrying, including his telescope. I did the same as we both observed the view. The vast sight of the town can be seen from where we stand in a clearing near the summit. Both of us showered again on the golden sun rays that paints the cloudless sky.
"Do you like it?" I asked Clue.
"The view here was beautiful,"
"So, is there anything that I might help you with?" Mr. Win asked. "Perhaps to set up your tent?"
"Oh, It's okay, Mr. Win. We're going to be fine," I answered, not wanting to trouble him more.
"Well, if that's the case, I'll leave you this," Mr. Win handed me a flare. "I hope that you didn't come to the point that you need to use this, but we really require you to have this. Just use it whenever you felt like you're in trouble."
"I stared at it worried at first, but he assures that we are going to be fine.
"Okay, Mr. Win, thanks, well see you tomorrow," I said, then he left the two of us.
"We should start to set up the tent while there's still light," I suggested.
"Yeah, that's a good idea,"
After almost half an hour, the tent was set, and we both settle inside.
"Should we make a bonfire now?" Clue asked. "Look, the Polaris had appeared. It was almost nighttime now."
"Yeah, common," I grab the matchbox while Clue gathered some twigs and logs for us to burn.
When the sun completely set, it was the moon that shone brightly. It was also quite the only thing we can hear: the crickets and the occasional hooting of owls deep in the woods.
"Do you think there are wild animals here?" Clue asked him as we try to keep the fire burning.
"Of course, we are in the wild Clue, and this is a protected and maintained area. There are a lot of wild animals here,"
"What would you do if they attack us?"
"They won't. Most of the animals don't attack unless they are provoked. The first thing that they're going to do is at least get as far as they can when they sense someone," I explained.
"And how do you know that?"
"I watched animal planet," I said, noticing that there aren't enough sticks and twigs for the bonfire.
"Hey, I'll just get some more twigs to burn. You stay here."
"You're going to leave me here, alone?" I can see his worried face.
"You need to look out for our things. I won't be gone for too long, I promise," I said. "And besides, we need that for fire, or else we will be cold."
"Okay, fine, just. Don't go far. It's dark, and who knows what animals are in the woods tonight.
"You're just scaring yourself. Just stay there and wait for me," I left Clue in the tent and wanders into the woods.
I don't bring a flashlight because the moon shines enough to see twigs and small tree branches that we may use for the bonfire. The wind gently blows, making me a little uncomfortable. I looked back from where I came from and saw the small bonfire from the camp.
I wandered deeper into the woods, bearing in mind that the camp was still near, but when I decided to go back, the bonfire was gone. I can't figure out the path back. I tried to retrace the way, but it seemed that I'm just going deeper and deeper into the woods. My heart begins to race as I am getting worried for myself and for Clue. I reached my pockets only to realize that I also doesn't have my phone with me. There was no way I could let Clue know that I was lost.
After some time of wandering in the middle of the forest, I grew tired but still holding the twigs I collected. The wind blew hard, making the trees around me sway, and the moon shines directly at me. I looked up and saw the sky full of scattered stars. And I remembered.
"Polaris," I told myself, facing the Polaris and spreading my arms. "If you spread your arms facing Polaris, your right-hand points east, and your left-hand points west."
With that, I remember going west as I watched Polaris back on the camp. I picked up the twigs and small branches that I gathered and go east, hoping that I was right. The longer I walked, the path became more and more familiar, suggesting that I am indeed going in the right direction. After about fifteen minutes I finally saw the tent. The fire was extinguished, and I cannot see Clue.
Even though the wind blows cold air, I am still sweating. I walks fast towards the campsite and immediately looked for him.
"Clue?" I shouted, looking inside the tent but Clue wasn't there.
"Clue, where are you?" I shouted again, this time louder than the first one.
"Rhed?" a faint shout from the woods I heard.
As fast as I could, I run in the direction of the voice.
He stops to listen to the voice again, but he can't hear it anymore.
"Clue?" I shout again.
"Rhed, is that you?" I heard Clue, and I can see a flashlight in the distance. I run towards there and find Clue.
"Why are you here? I told you to wait in the tent?" I irritably asked, but when I saw Clue's flush red face, I began to feel guilty.
"I heard weird noises coming from the woods, and I thought it was you, so I followed it. Then the next thing I knew is I was lost, and I can't find my way back to our camp," he said, panting.
"It's okay now. I'm here. I also lost, but thanks to Polaris, I found my way back."
"Really?"
"Yes, let's just go back and talk there."
We went back to the campsite and build a bonfire again. Sitting close to each other, we feel the heat coming from the fire, but we also feel the cold wind.
"Rhed?" he said.
"Yes?"
"Did you remember telling me that I am your Polaris?" he asked out of nowhere.
"Yes, and you still are, always."
"If I leave for Canada, would you wait for me?"
"Are you going to leave me soon?" I asked, looking only at the fire.
"I don't know," melancholy was evident in his voice, but I ignored it.
"Hey, I don't think it is the right time for us to talk about it. Let's just enjoy this night, okay?" he didn't say more. He just lean into my shoulder and nodded.
"You know, It's getting late. Why don't you tell me something about this one constellation?" I point out the sky.
"That one? Yeah, that is the Cassiopeia. She always appeared close to the Polaris," Clue explained. "In mythology, she is the mother of Andromeda and is said that she and her daughter were more beautiful than everyone. "
"Okay, what about this one? I remembered that we studied this when we were in grade six, this dipper-shaped one, I just can't remember what it's called"
"Yeah, that one is called the Big Dipper, but it is also called the Big Bear, you know that it's the tip is actually the Polaris," he said, tracing the constellation.
"Polaris really have significance in these constellations, right?" I said, watching him trace the big dipper.
"Yes, you're right. Polaris always had something to do with some visible constellation," he agreed, then let out a deep sigh.
None of us spoke after that.
"Still thinking about it, are you?" I asked.
"It's only a few months before we graduate, and I really can't help to not think about it," he stated. "And now that you and I are together, it gives me more reason to stay."
"Please, Clue let's just don't talk about it now okay, I don't want this night to be ruined."
"But..." Clue didn't say what he was going to do because I had sealed his mouth with my lips. I felt my arms going around him as our bodies heat up. My heart was pounding uncontrollably as our lips parted.
"Rhed," Clue said heavily.
"Let's get inside the tent," I replied.
He was just looking at me as I guide him inside, the wind is still chilly, but both of us feels hot. Clue sat inside, still looking at me, closing the tent. Having only the fire outside and the moon as the source of light, all we can see is the silhouette of each other.
"Clue," I whispered.
He did not say anything. He just kept looking at me, waiting for what I am about to say.
"Can I kiss you again?" I asked.
Clue just nods, and with that, I once again taste Clue's lips as my kiss becomes intense. I went down on Clue's neck, making him moan softly. I can feel his hands move around my head, clutching an ample amount of my hair, burying me even more on his body. I let go panting only to catch my breath. As I looked into Clue's eyes, I saw it burning with desire. I took off my shirt and unbutton my pants feeling something was growing inside it.
Outside, the wind was blowing hard as it nearly extinguish the fire we had made. But we seem not to care. It's getting hotter and hotter inside the tent. I now take off Clue's shirt and started kissing him again. With more force, my tongue makes its way inside every corner of Clue's mouth. I can feel that something down there between my legs wanted to get out, but my hands are busy caressing Clue's broad back.
As we continue to explore each other, Clue moans again and laid down. I just follow him. Using only one hand, I then grabbed Clue's hands and pin them above his head. He just looked at me, panting and sweating. My other arm was playing with Clue's chest making him gasp. I moved my hands lower towards Clue's abs. I started to unbutton his pants until he wasn't wearing anything at all.
The bonfire outside was beginning to fade, but I can clearly see the silhouette of his manhood. I started to feel the thing between his legs which makes him jolt a bit but still give in. I also take off my pants, leaving nothing else to cover my naked body.
I then again dives to suck Clue's mouth as I pin my arms above him. I can feel the hard thing poking my abdomen, but the sensation was so great I didn't dare to complain. I let go of his hands, my mouth moves from his lips to behind his ears to his neck. Once again, he holds my head as if guiding it to move all over his body. I doesn't mind tasting his sweat as I played with his nipples using my tongue and making him moan loud. I moved down into his navel down to his groin. Then I stopped.
"Why did you stop?" he asked, panting.
"Can I?"
"Please," he gasps. On that note, I hold it delicately and move my hands up and down, hearing Clue hiss and moan as I do his shaft.
The tip of Clue's organ was shiny, almost giving me the invitation to taste the silky sweet labor we have made. And I did it. Clue moans louder than before as I dive into the thing between his thighs. It was ticklish and warm and wet. I cannot describe it. The only thing he does is to hold on to my hair and moan as I let my tongue play his sheath.
I leave Clues shaft and went to level back to him. I watched Clue's weary and watery eyes stare back at me, and in a flash, I found myself lying under Clue's body, feeling His tongue wet my neck. Clue's kisses were more aggressive than mine, making me hitch as he sucked in my neck.
I guided his head down to meet his angry staff, who's just like his' leaked a downy liquid. He was hesitant at first, but the sensation that I felt right now was scorchy. Then I felt it. He also plunged into my organ, tasting the salty bland liquid coming from its tip.
My airy groan can be heard as he does this to my hard-on. I can't control myself. I firmly hold his head and thrusts multiple times making him shudder and groan.
When I heard Clue's choking noise, I immediately stops and check on him.
"Are you okay?" I asked softly as he stroked Clue's cheeks.
Clue just nods, too weak to say any word. I get something in my bag, and Clue noticed it immediately, looking almost terrified.
"If you're not ready to do it, I'll understand," I said as softly as I tore the condom's wrapper.
Still, he didn't speak. He get the condom on my hand and slowly put it in my shaft. And back to the rhythm, both of our hands and mouth explore each other's body until I guided Clue to turn his back on me. I gently pour lubrication on the entrance on Clue's rear end. Slowly I pierce my way towards his insides. I heard his contented hiss as he slowly follow a rhythm of pleasure inside his warm and tight bum, covering my rod.
In no time, I felt that he was also nudging and synchronizing with the movement I makes. Until I went faster and faster, the slapping sound of our bodies colliding echoes into the woods. We both gasp and groan, feeling the pleasure building and wanting to escape. We both pants, sweat dripping and moaning loud as our staff both erupt, sending whitish liquid all over inside the tent. I drop on Clues naked body, and we both feel our hearts racing as we catch our breaths. I looked at Clue, who had traces of tears in his eyes. I kissed him one more, this time more warm and passionate than ever.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
It was almost dusk when we arrived back at my house. I wake Clue up as he was sleeping during the entire ride.
"Clue, we're here," as gentle as I tap Clues face, I said.
He had woken and let out a huge yawn.
"What time is it?" he asked.
"It's quarter to five already."
Clue went out of the car and walks limping towards the house. I immediately noticed it and felt a little guilty.
"Hey, does it hurt bad?" I asked, guiding him.
"It hurts a little, but I'm okay," he said, smiling.
We stayed in the living room watching TV. He was lying on my lap, eyes closed, but I know that he was wide awake. I look at Clue, adoring him even more, but I can't help to feel guilty when I saw some marks on his neck.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" Clue asked though his eyes were still closed.
"I thought you're sleeping," I said.
"I had enough sleep."
"I know, I just thought that... You know I assume you're exhausted after last night,"
"Well, I still can't imagine that we already did it. And I can't believe I was able to take that,"
"But you also like it, right?" I asked, concerned.
"Yes, of course, I liked it, but it still hurts," he said. "So you better be ready next time."
He smirked, this time looking at me. And I was caught off guard that I didn't have the chance to think for a moment.
"Wha... What do you mean?" I asked.
"That means I'm going home," he stands up and gets his bag.
"What about this," I pointed out his telescope and other things
"I'll just leave it there for a moment. You are free to use them if you want," he said as he gets out, still walking unevenly.
"Wait, you left something," I rushed towards the door and gave him a kiss. "You take care."
"Okay, okay. You too. Don't sleep late, okay?" he said, getting inside his car and drive away.
By the time Clue's car disappeared. My phone rings an unknown number appeared on the screen, so I just ignored it.
#
- Cluefer Alcantara -
I arrived at our house to find Archi playing in the living room. He saw me and immediately runs giving me a hug.
"Clue, where have you been? I've been waiting for you since morning," he said.
"Clue had to finish some projects, that's why he was late. Right Clue?" mom said, descending into the grand staircase and in front of her was dad staring at me, waiting for an answer as well.
"Yes, I have to finish research, so I need to spend time with my groupmates," I told Archi loud enough to let dad hear it.
"Can we play in my room? I have practiced a new video game that I want to show you common let's go,"
I was about to go with Archi, but dad called me.
"He will follow you, Archi. You go first. We'll have something to talk to," dad's voice almost echoes in the living room, making Archi oblige in an instance.
I already knew where this conversation would go, and I'm not welcoming it. At least for now.
Dad sat on one of the couches in the living room as I try to estimate the mood.
"Your graduation is in less than two months, right?" he said.
"Yes,"
"So, where do you want to take your masters? Yale... Harvard... Stanford... or the University of Cambridge, perhaps?"
"Do I have a choice?" I said. In my peripheral, I saw mom looking at me intently, almost warning me not to say what I was about to.
"Aren't you listening? I'm giving you a choice here, you choose where you want to take your mas-"
"I don't want to leave," I said simply, but Dad's reaction was obvious as he looked sternly at me again.
"Well, that was not a choice laid on the table," he remarked.
"Why are you so desperate to bring me abroad, dad? I can still help you here. We also have businesses here that I can look after. Why not let me supervise that?" my voice was a little louder than normal.
"Your mom will look after our business here, and you are the one who will supervise our business in Canada. Why do you have to make it complicated?"
"I'm not making it complicated, dad. It's just I don't want to be just your shadow. I want to make my own path," I retorted.
"What path? Can you do that without me? And, of course, you are always in my shadow because I made you. I have planned this since you are born, and it will happen whether you like it or not. You'll see."
I could feel the frustration rising, I was going to speak again, but I saw mom signaling me not to. And I didn't know, but somehow I choose not to talk anymore. I just get up and went straight to my room. I hated the power that dad thinks he holds toward me, but I hated myself more for not being able to get out of his clutch, and I am mad because I knew my father was right. I don't have a choice. If I leave and abandon my family, I would just make it harder for Archi and mom. They might suffer because of me, and that was the last thing I want.
I can hear Archi calling me, but I just ignored him. I am too frustrated to play with him. I went straight to my room and shut the door, I can still hear Archi calling me and knocking at the door, but I paid no attention to it.
"Clue... Clue... Clue! C'mon, let's go play!" He was still persistent in getting me out of the room. I got up and opened the door out of annoyance, but Archi isn't the only one there now. Standing there was mom.
"Can we please talk?" she asked. The frustration that I felt a while ago seemed to ease a little. I doesn't speak; I just went back to my bed and buried my face.
"Hey, I know you're mad. But just give your father some time. Maybe after graduation, you'll be able to talk to him about it," I can clearly hear her, but I didn't want to respond. From the start, she was aware that he didn't want to go to Canada, and now, being with Rhed, I had another reason that makes me want to disobey my father.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
We were eating at Briner's again, two days after our trip from the mountains, and I noticed that Clue was acting slightly off since then.
"Can I ask you something?" I asked Clue.
"Sure,"
"What's up with you lately? You seemed different I just can't tell exactly."
He looked at me flustered.
"What? How do you say so?" he said, avoiding to look at me.
"Didn't I say that you can always tell me everything? So why don't you tell me now?"
"It's just, my dad arrived two days ago and..."
"He wanted you to go to Canada again?" I cut Clue, who just nods. "And what did you do?"
"I told him I might not want to go, but as expected, it turns into an argument,"
"And your mom?"
"She told me to give dad time," he said. I can tell that he was slightly getting annoyed, but the good thing is he's more open to talking about this now.
"Maybe your mom was right," I said. " There are still almost two months left till graduation. A lot can happen in two months, you know?"
"Like what, Rhed?" he asked, slightly raising his voice, so I looked directly at him.
"Well, last two months, I don't know you, but here we are now, having dinner together," I responded, but it seemed to not ease the annoyance he was feeling.
"Why did I feel that you are not bothered that there is a big possibility that I might be leaving in two months?" Clue's voice went louder, making some of the customers near us look.
"Hey, of course not. Don't think that. It's just I do want to enjoy this moment, and I don't want to fill it with worries of the things that we are not sure about," I explained, but he was still mad.
"You know what, let's just talk about it later. I gonna go," he blurted out and rushed through the door.
"Clue, wait!" I immediately followed him. "Hey Clue, what's wrong?"
"You know what's wrong? I'll tell you what's wrong. I feel like you don't understand what I'm feeling about going to Canada, about leaving you?"
"What? What makes you think that? Don't think that, of course, I don't want you to leave, but..."
"See, there, you always find something that validates my parent's decision. You always have your buts,"
"It's not like that..."
"No, Rhed. I don't want to hear it now. I'll have to go," he then left me confused in his sudden outburst. I didn't expect this. I already know that Clue doesn't want to talk about this, but I messed it up when I finally had the chance to do so.
"What a mess, Rhed?" I said to myself, putting my palm to my face.
I went back inside to get my phone.
"It was ringing nonstop, Rhed," Mrs. Mich told me, and then it rang again, the same number as before, so I ignored it and went back to my house still thinking about Clue.
[Hey, I'm sorry if I'm insensitive, let's talk tomorrow at the lake. We can watch the stars there again] I texted him the moment I arrived. I waited but instead of Clue's response, my phone rings again. Annoyed, I pick up the call.
"Who are you, and why are you calling me?" I said upfront.
"Is this Rhed Vasquez?" the person on the other line was a woman, and her voice was somehow familiar; I just can't recall where did I hear it.
"Who are you?" I asked once again, but this time a little calmer.
"I believe we've met a couple of weeks ago. I just wanted to talk to you... personally," the woman said.
"About what?"
"It's about you and Clue,"
"What? How did you know Clue, and what do you want from us?"
" Let's just talk when we met, okay? I'll send you the details," then the woman hangs up.
Even more confused, I wonder who is this woman and what about Clue that she wanted to talk about?
I tries to recall where I heard that voice, but he can't. I constantly check my phone, waiting for Clue to respond to my messages, but he didn't even send anything. Disappointed, I decided to go to bed and stared at the ceiling. Thinking about the thing I told Clue, that there were so many things that can happen in a month or two, but now it turns out that a lot can really happen even in an hour.
With these thoughts while staring at the ceiling, imagining that I was watching the night sky again with Clue. I gradually felt my lids getting heavy, and my body relaxed; I closed my eyes. But then I find myself outside Briner's, waiting for a woman I think I knew but not entirely sure. Until I saw a gorgeous woman approaching. She just looks like she was the same age as I am, but I swear that I don't see her before. I just stare at her as she walks gracefully. Her hair gently sways every time she takes a step.
"You are Rhed Vasquez, right?" the woman asked me. I eventually recall her voice. Indeed she is the woman I talked to on the phone.
"Y... yes, who are you?" I responded shortly.
"I'm Cassiopeia, but you can call me Cassy," she said, extending her arm offering a handshake.
"Cassiopeia? You mean the constellation?" I asked, baffled.
"Yes! how do you know?" Cassy gleefully asked.
"I... Clue told me,"
"He also thought you about stars?" when I heard that he looked directly at Cassy, there's something in his vibe that tells me I shouldn't continue this conversation anymore, but at the back of my mind, I wanted to know what does this woman have something to do with Clue.
"What do you want?" I asked. Ignoring her question.
"You're really straight to the point, just like what they say," she said. "Okay, then let's cut the chase, and let me tell you the reason why I wanted to see you."
I'm starting to feel bothered. I felt that I'm not gonna like what this woman was about to tell me.
"I'm going to tell you to leave Clue alone," I looked at her sternly, but I doesn't speak.
"We're going to Canada soon, and we're getting married there, so please let him go."
Cassy's last words echoes into my ears louder and louder until I opened my eyes. I felt hot and sweaty. I realized that I forgot to turn on the AC. My heart was racing, and I seemed afraid, but I was glad that it wasn't real. Sometimes I hate that I dreamt very vividly, which makes me unable to separate my dreams into reality, making me incapable to get over it for a time.
I went to the kitchen to quench my thirst and immediately finds my phone, only to see that Clue is still not responding to my message. Instead, a text message was sent by the woman who called.
[At the cafe at the mall near the university, tomorrow 9:00 AM] I supposed that this was the place where we would have to meet. But after that dream, I was more reluctant to meet her.
"What if his dream was a premonition and the woman who called him was indeed Clue's girlfriend or fiance," I told myself but shrug it off almost immediately.
I went back to my bed, staring at the message, still thinking if I would go. I don't have class until 10 AM, so it was really possible for me to meet this woman.
#
- Rhed Vasquez -
It was quarter past nine when I arrived at the cafe. I gazed at the few customers at the cafe looking for the woman who called me. But it seem that she wasn't here yet.
"Rhed," a familiar voice called me.
I turn around and find a pretty woman standing behind me. It took a while for me to finally recognize who this woman is.
"You... you're..." I said, stuttering.
"Yes, Rhed, I'm Cluefer's mom. I believe we've already met?" Mrs. Alcantara said as she sat opposite me, who is still shocked and as confused as last night on why on earth did my boyfriend's mother wanted to talk to me.
"I know you're thinking about why I want to talk to you," she started. "Well, as I mentioned on the phone, it's about Clue."
I just stared at her trying to grasp everything that she going to say.
"What about him?" I asked.
"Since I met you that time, I got to check who my son's friends are. You're quite new, so I have to know who you are. And instead of just knowing who you are, I know something more not only on you but also on my son," she said.
My heart begins to gradually beat fast. I knew that this conversation might lead to something that Clue and I doesn't want.
"I... I can't understand you, Mrs. Alcantara," I responded.
"You know, Rhed, I'm not mad. I'm actually grateful that it seems when you two started being friends, my son becomes much better, and he is happy. And I will always thank you for that," she said. "But the thing is, I'm not the one in control of the circumstance you and Clue are in."
"But still, what you think is best for him isn't what he wants," I said.
"I know. But this isn't all about what he wants...
"Is it about us being together? That's why you wanted him to go?"
"Please no. It wasn't. You know what this special relationship that you and Clue had. I don't mind it. In fact, I would support it if I can."
"Then why can't you?" I snapped. "And why are you talking to me about this?"
"Because I know that you are the only one who can help me. Who can help him."
"What do you mean?"
"I'm begging you to convince my son to go to Canada,"
"Are you serious? Don't you know how much he hates the idea of going in there? And now you want me to force him to go?" my frustration was building that I didn't notice the whole cafe can hear me. Clue's mother was just looking at me intently.
"I know my son. I raised him. That's why I know that he won't give up just like his mom."
"If that's the case, why are we having this conversation now?"
"Because I also know what makes him change his mind. And it's you Rhed," she keeps looking at me like she was estimating every little movement I made.
I opens my mouth a few times, but I was out of words to say.
"I know that when it comes to the person he loves, he was fragile just like me."
"And you want to use that against him?" I snarled.
"No, that's not it," Mrs. Alcantara disagrees. "If my husband finds out about you and Clue, he would definitely find a way to crush whatever it is that's going on between the two of you,"
This makes me even madder because I'm starting to get her point.
"But... I don't want him to suffer," I softly said.
"If he disobeyed his father, then he will suffer. And I know he won't listen to me. I want you to help him," she said, holding my hand. "You are the only one that I know can help him.
"I... I have to go. I'm sorry. My class will start soon, and I can't afford to be late. Excuse me," I said as I grabs my bag and quickly went to the university.
My thoughts wander about the conversation I had with Clue's mother. I see her point but didn't think that it will come to an end that she would beg me to convince Clue about something we both don't want to happen.
ns 15.158.61.8da2
