Basil nodded in understanding, knowing the importance of reaching out to Sunny. "Of course, I've got it covered," he replied softly, giving Kel a reassuring smile. With that, Kel excused himself for a moment to make the call to Sunny, ensuring that their friend felt included and welcomed into their gathering.
Ms. and Mr. Corazon sighed in satisfaction, observing how their sons had grown and bonded with their familiar friend group over the past four years. Hero then turned to Aubrey and Basil, considering their preferences. "While we wait, do you guys have any preferences for your drinks?" he asked, wanting to make sure everyone had something they enjoyed to drink during the gathering.
Basil, with his soft-spoken nature, spoke up first. "I'd love some watermelon juice, please," he requested politely, a hint of enthusiasm in his voice for the refreshing drink.
Aubrey, assertive yet kind, chimed in next. "I'll have a strawberry lemonade, thank you," she said with a warm smile, knowing it would be a delightful choice to complement the evening.
Hero nodded, taking note of their preferences. "Watermelon juice and strawberry lemonade it is," he confirmed, pleased to cater to their individual tastes. With that settled, he headed to the kitchen to prepare the drinks, adding a thoughtful touch to the gathering.
Sunny answered Kel's call, his voice tinged with curiosity and a hint of concern. "Uhh Kel, what is it?" he inquired, setting the violin back into its case and carefully closing it before leaving the music room of his house.
Kel's voice came through the phone with his usual enthusiasm. "Hey, Sunny! Just checking in. Are you done checking on Mari and putting Mewo back to rest?" he asked, his optimism evident in his tone as he made sure everything was settled for Sunny at home.
Sunny glanced around his dimming house interior, signaling the approaching evening. "Yeah, everything's sorted here. How about you guys? Managed to prepare things at your place? And did you let Hector, your pet dog, rest too?" he inquired, showing concern for their preparations and their furry companion's well-being.
Kel glanced out the window towards his family's front yard, where Hector's doghouse stood. He smiled as he noticed the dog peacefully asleep, signaling that their furry friend was indeed resting well. "Yep, Hector's all settled in for the night," Kel confirmed, his voice tinged with satisfaction at the sight.
Kel added cheerfully, "Come on, Sunny. Can you make it over here on your own, or do you want your trusty buddy to come fetch you next-door?" His upbeat tone reflected his eagerness to have Sunny join them for the evening.
Sunny spoke softly, scratching his head. "Uhh, sure. It's nice since I barely recall the last time I was outside my home in the evening," he admitted, conveying a sense of nostalgia and novelty at the idea of venturing out at night.
He got surprise when Kel said "Okay , be right there in a jiffy—" as Sunny wants to say something but the call ended. Which made him chuckle.
Kel's excitement was palpable as he rushed to his friends and older brother. "Guys, guys! I'm heading to pick up Sunny now so he can join us," he announced eagerly.
Basil chimed in softly, "Yeah, Sunny still isn't used to going outside by himself, especially in the dark." His gentle tone reflected his understanding of Sunny's situation.
Aubrey nodded in agreement, understanding the plan, while Hero beamed with enthusiasm. "Okay, I'll just let Mama and Papa know that you'll be right back with Sunny. He's right next door," he affirmed, eager to facilitate Sunny's arrival.
Kel punched his hand high with a smile. "Okies! Be right back, guys!" he exclaimed before heading off to fetch Sunny.
Aubrey reflected on Kel's excitement, turning to Hero with a thoughtful expression. "It's really nice seeing Kel so excited, isn't it, Hero? It's sort of nostalgic, like when we used to have typical neighboring hangouts like this," she mused, reminiscing about simpler times.
Hero nodded with a smile, a hint of melancholy in his eyes as he recalled the past. "Yeah, it's nostalgic indeed," he agreed, his thoughts drifting to Mari who used to accompany Sunny on such visits to this home of his family. The absence of Mari added a layer of bittersweetness to the memories.
Back to Sunny's perspective , he then was about to approach the front door of his house in the dark
Until Sunny's curiosity was piqued as he heard a thud outside. "Kel? You okay?" he called out, concern evident in his voice.
As Sunny slowly opened the door, he peered outside to find Kel standing there with an apologetic grin. "Sorry about that, Sunny. Tripped over Hector's toy," Kel explained, gesturing to the dog's chew toy lying on the ground.
Sunny chuckled softly, relieved that it was nothing serious. "No worries, Kel. Let's head over to Hero's place," he said, stepping out of the doorway to join Kel on their short journey next door.
Kel smiles , as Sunny picks up the chew toy "guess Hector's toy left here before he slept near his doghouse of your home wait…Kel you really rushed quickly to just casually accompany me?"
Sunny's question made Kel grin sheepishly. "Well, I wanted to make sure you felt comfortable coming over. Plus, it's nice to have some company on the way," Kel admitted, scratching the back of his head.
As they walked towards Hero's house, Kel glanced at Sunny. "How are you feeling about tonight? It's been a while since we all hung out together like this," Kel remarked, curious about Sunny's thoughts on rejoining their friend group after his time spent indoors.
Sunny's words reflected his gratitude and sense of belonging. "It's been nice these past 7 days," he continued. "Reuniting with you guys, making new memories for Mari, and repairing our old treehouse days ago. Especially hanging out with the hooligans earlier today... I felt really grateful that all of you guys still manage to get along and made me a part of it."
Kel smiled warmly. "Of course, Sunny! We're always here for you, no matter what. And Mari would want us to stick together too," Kel said reassuringly, echoing the sentiment of their close-knit friendship.
As they finally reach the neighboring house of the Corazons. Sunny casually placed the chew toy near Hector's sleeping form, a content smile on his face. As they reached the Corazon's house, Kel knocked on the door, and Basil promptly opened it, welcoming them inside with a warm smile. Sunny's heart felt lighter, knowing he could now join his friends in their gathering.
As they entered inside, Sunny sniffed the delightful aroma wafting from the corridor leading to the dining area of the house. "Woah, so you guys did manage to prepare dinner already?" he exclaimed, impressed by their efficiency.
Aubrey smiled and nodded in agreement. "It smells amazing in here," she remarked, appreciating the effort put into preparing dinner.
Hero chimed in, "Yeah, Mama and Papa Corazon are culinary wizards," with a proud grin, knowing his parents' cooking skills were top-notch.
Kel added enthusiastically, "You're in for a treat, Sunny! Mama and Papa Corazon's cooking never disappoints!"
Basil, ever soft-spoken, simply nodded with a serene expression, indicating his anticipation for the meal.
Just then, the parents of Hero and Kel, the Corazons, entered the room with welcoming smiles, greeting Sunny with familiarity and warmth. "Welcome, Sunny! We're glad you could join us for dinner," they said, their voices carrying genuine happiness at having him there.
Sunny greets as well saying "Nice seeing you all again Ms and Mr.Corazon. Sorry to keep you waiting for awhile…"
As Ms.Corazon cups his cheek saying "No little one , we're still very close acquaintances with your parents as well and it's nice seeing you after so long hanging out with my boys again…."
Sunny smiled gratefully at Ms. Corazon's words. "Thank you for having me. It's been great spending time with everyone again," he replied warmly, feeling the sense of familiarity and belonging that he had missed for so long.
Later , they finally take their seats to the table and before they eat.
They were praying together thanking for the meal before beginning.
Basil leaned in towards Sunny, his voice soft and thoughtful. "Sunny, I was thinking after our dinner tonight, could you take a group picture with everyone and the adults here?" he whispered, a gentle excitement in his tone.
Sunny responded quietly, "Sure, that sounds like something new, especially with Ms. and Mr. Corazon and even Kel and Hero's youngest sister, Sally, being part of your latest photos, Basil."
Basil smiles with a nod before they prepare to eat.
Aubrey and Kel laughed while Hero was busy munching on his 'Hero Sandwich.' Between bites, he asked, "Hmm? Guys, what's so funny?"
Aubrey chuckles and teases, "Oh, nothing much, Hero. Just reminiscing about the time Kel tried to cook a 'heroic' meal for us and ended up burning the kitchen." She smirks playfully at Kel, who shrugs with a sheepish grin.
Kel laughs along, adding, "Yeah, I thought I could impress everyone with my culinary skills, but let's just say it was a learning experience." He winks at Hero, who joins in with a chuckle, understanding the humor in their shared memories.
Hero then pause "wait , are you making a pun reference with my nickname guys? You do know the sandwich I am eating is my fave at Gino's right?"
Aubrey nods with a grin, replying, "Of course, Hero. We're just teasing Kel a bit, but we all know that 'Hero Sandwich' is your go-to favorite." She winks playfully, and Kel chimes in, "Yeah, we're just poking fun. No harm intended, Hero." They share a lighthearted moment, enjoying each other's company and the friendly banter.
Meanwhile, Mr.Corazon turn to Sunny "I heard from my boys when you fainted 2-3 days ago, Sunny, , that when your parents came were inform your temporarily leaving the faraway town to bring your sister to a better hospital at the city yes?"
Mr. Corazon's question prompts a solemn nod from Sunny. "Yes, Mr. Corazon," he confirms softly. "The hospital in the city has better facilities for Mari's condition. It was a tough decision, but we believe it's the best chance for her recovery." His expression reflects the gravity of the situation, tinged with hope for Mari's well-being.
Then , Ms.Corazon turn to Sunny with empathy "You know it's actually nice seeing you smile? Since when we first saw you visiting this place it seems your struggling with something…Yet now it seems it's like Light has return to your eyes…"
Ms. Corazon's words bring a soft smile to Sunny's face, tinged with gratitude. "Thank you, Ms. Corazon," he responds sincerely. "Being here with everyone, especially during these times, has been uplifting. It feels like a step forward, and I'm grateful for the support and warmth from all of you." His eyes convey a sense of newfound comfort and appreciation for the camaraderie he's found in this familiar place.
Then , he felt Aubrey turn to him from the other seat beside him saying "aww come on now , just be casual with us Sunny….no need for formalities."
As Kel tease "Guess he really always that respectful huh?"
Aubrey's remark elicits a chuckle from Sunny. "Alright, alright," he says with a more relaxed tone. "I'll keep it casual." He glances at Kel with a playful grin. "Can't help it, Kel. Respect is kind of my thing," he quips, joining in the light-hearted banter.
Then , Hero munches on his sandwich observe at Basil busy placing his bag aside where his photo album and camera aside as he ate his meal on the plate.
While , Aubrey and
Kel happily eats for Kel spoke "Ahh Mama always had the best cooking now combine how. Hero and I HELPED!!!"
As the parents chuckled. Mr.Corazon "speaking of which Hero…how's your college going to ambitiously pursue cooking?"
Hero swallows a bite of his sandwich before responding. "It's going really well, Papa. I'm learning a lot, and the hands-on experience in the kitchen is invaluable. Plus, having Kel around makes everything more fun," he says with a grin, giving his brother a playful nudge.
Kel beams proudly. "Yeah, I'm like his personal taste tester and motivator," he jokes, earning a laugh from everyone at the table.
Ms. Corazon nods approvingly. "We're proud of both of you," she says warmly, her eyes reflecting pride and affection. "You've grown into such fine young men."
Meanwhile, Basil flips through his photo album, occasionally glancing at the group with a smile.
Then , Aubrey turns "speaking of which Kel , when did you start joining the basketball team again for Faraway's school?"
Kel grins, looking animated. "Oh, it's been a couple of weeks now! Coach Perez asked me to join since they needed an extra player, and I couldn't resist getting back into it. It's been great to be on the court again," he explains, excitement evident in his voice.
Aubrey nods, impressed. "That's awesome, Kel! I'm sure you're killing it out there," she compliments, giving him a supportive smile.
Kel winks at Sunny "Yet since it's summer vacation no basketball since I already want us to use these following days of this 3-weeks to hangout with everyone!!!"
Basil sighs as he speaks up while eating "I hope my Grandma can see everyone again and return from her own enjoyment with her life back here.."
Sunny spoke with understanding "Surely , she's alright.."
Then Hero speaks "So Basil , when would your parents not be busy from work for these following days before Sunny's temporary move out with Mari?" finishing his sandwich and drinking some of his own drink while serving the requested drinks for Basil and Aubrey.
Kel takes Orange Joe in the backround
Basil took a sip of his drink before responding to Hero's question. "My parents should have some free time by tomorrow afternoon. They've been quite busy with work lately, but they promised to make time for us before Sunny's temporary move out with Mari," he explained, looking thoughtful.
Kel's smile widened as he nodded enthusiastically "that's great that means you were able to communicate with your parents despite them being so busy huh?" he replied, his tone reflecting his gratitude. Basil nods silently with a gentle grin.
Aubrey sighs , then notice Sunny quietly listens and keeps eating and drinking.
She still ponders to herself (now come on me I already reconnected with everyone ask Basil a bit base on Hero's theory of doubt of the connection with Mari's accident
And Sunny's neck injury so….Should I ask Sunny himself? No he already insist last time with Basil's words wait..I wonder how Sunny perceived that moment of the accident..Yet I don't want to seem heartless). For Sunny slightly scoot closer by her side.
Sunny's quiet approach caught Aubrey by surprise, causing her to jump slightly. She met his gaze, noticing the curiosity and concern in his eyes. Sunny's expression was a mix of understanding and openness, as if he was silently inviting her to share whatever was on her mind.
Aubrey took a moment to collect her thoughts before speaking softly to Sunny. "Hey, Sunny. I was just thinking about a few things...about the accident and everything. How are you feeling about it all?" She searched his eyes, hoping to gauge his thoughts without prying too much into his emotions.
Sunny froze , contemplating a bit before speaking softly "Still bothered.." scratch his neckbrace under his familiar clothing of a vest and white undershirt "Rather , I felt terrible that Mari got into that state…I just wish once me and my parents sent her to the hospital together….I can feel relieved she can get better…"
Aubrey nodded understandingly, her expression reflecting empathy. "I understand, Sunny. It's tough seeing someone you care about in that state, especially when you wish you could have done more." She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, offering silent support.
Sunny sighed softly, appreciating Aubrey's understanding. He glanced at her, a hint of gratitude in his eyes. "Thanks, Aubrey. It means a lot," he murmured, a sense of relief evident in his voice.
Then, deep down Sunny felt a heartache despite his developing feelings for Aubrey as he utters "anyways Uhh Aubrey this might be out of nowhere yet..for the past 4 years when I was isolated with everyone…besides nursing Mari and handling Mewo at home…is there a certain type of guy you like?" He is a bit hesitant, still debating if Aubrey has feelings for him besides the casual light teasing of Kel and Basil for the past few days them being possibly closer.
Sunny's question carried a mix of curiosity and vulnerability, reflecting his inner turmoil and growing feelings for Aubrey. His hesitance showed his apprehension about potentially risking their friendship with such a personal inquiry.
Aubrey's expression softened as she considered Sunny's question. She noticed his hesitancy and decided to respond honestly, aware of the delicate balance of their friendship. "Well, Sunny, I've never really thought about it much during those years," she admitted, choosing her words carefully. "But lately, with everything changing and reconnecting with everyone, I guess I've been more open to the idea of someone who's caring, understanding, and just genuinely there for me."
Sunny listened intently, his heart racing slightly at her words. He nodded, feeling a mix of relief and curiosity about where their conversation might lead. "That sounds like someone I know," he said softly, a shy smile tugging at his lips.
They both blush , as she smiles "Now…tell me your 'type' Sunny pretty sure your so called 'dreamworld' in your sleep you've been sharing to us can reflect that right?"
Aubrey's playful teasing brought a smile to Sunny's face, easing some of the tension in the air. "Well, if you're referring to my dreamworld, it's a bit different," he began, his tone light. "In there, it's more about loyalty, bravery, and someone who's always there no matter what."
Aubrey nodded thoughtfully, appreciating Sunny's sincerity. "Those are good qualities," she remarked, her gaze meeting his with a newfound understanding.
Sunny chuckled softly, feeling a sense of relief in their conversation. "Yeah, they are. And I think they're qualities we all value in our own ways," he added, glancing around at their friends, who were engrossed in their own conversations.
Aubrey smiled, her eyes reflecting a deeper connection. "Definitely," she agreed, her tone warm. "It's nice to talk about these things, especially when everything's been changing lately."
Sunny nodded in agreement, grateful for their candid conversation. As their eyes met again, there was a silent understanding between them, a shared acknowledgment of their evolving friendship and unspoken feelings.
The momentary awkwardness between Sunny and Aubrey was broken by the cheerful waves from Basil and Hero, along with Kel's focus on his meal.
Sunny and Aubrey exchanged a glance, each lost in their thoughts. (It's like we're dancing around the real conversation we should be having.) They both knew there was something unspoken between them, a connection that went beyond friendship.
As they returned the waves with smiles, a silent understanding passed between Sunny and Aubrey. (Maybe it's time we stopped tiptoeing around this and just talked.) But for now, they decided to enjoy the evening with their friends, knowing that the conversation they needed to have would come in its own time.
After the dinner ended with a cheerful burp from Kel, the group chuckled. Hero and Sunny pitched in to help with cleaning up the dishes, while Basil and Aubrey took care of tidying the table.
Ms. Corazon, pleased with the evening's festivities, asked, "Did you all enjoy the meals I prepared tonight?" Her warm smile mirrored the contentment in everyone's hearts.
As they finished cleaning up, the group shared their thoughts on the meal. Kel, always enthusiastic, exclaimed, "It was amazing, Mrs. Corazon! Your cooking never disappoints!"
Hero, with his mature and appreciative demeanor, added, "Indeed, it was delicious. Thank you for the wonderful dinner."
Sunny, usually reserved but grateful, nodded in agreement. "Thank you, Ms. Corazon. The food was really good."
Basil, ever soft-spoken and thoughtful, chimed in, "Everything was perfect, as always. Thank you for having us over."
Aubrey, assertive yet kind, complimented, "It was a delightful meal. Your cooking skills are impressive, Mrs. Corazon."
She chuckles with a smile "glad you loved it all.."
As Basil stands up near Mr.Corazon "So , Mr.Corazon if you and Ms.Corazon don't mind before you both sleep in earlier tonight. Shall I let us have a group picture I could take right now?"
Basil's request for a group photo was met with warm approval. Mr. and Ms. Corazon exchanged amused glances before nodding in agreement.
"Of course, Basil," Mr. Corazon replied with a smile. "It would be a lovely way to remember this evening."
Ms. Corazon added, "Yes, let's capture this moment. I'm sure it will be a cherished memory."
The group gathered eagerly, ready to pose for the picture.
With a cheerful "Say Cheese!" from Basil, the camera clicked, capturing the smiling faces of everyone in the room, including Basil himself. It was a moment frozen in time, a testament to the bonds of friendship and family they shared.
The instant Polaroid photo developed before their eyes, revealing a clear and vibrant image of the group. Smiles lit up their faces as they gathered around to admire the captured moment, a tangible memory of their time together.