The Magic in Camotes Island

"I don't know how you will take it but I will tell you anyway," I finally had the courage to tell you hours after our Camotes Island trip. I wasn't prepared for the talk but the spontaneity of the trip caused me to spill out words which I normally keep for myself.

"Tulang Diot, Camotes Island"

New Job. New Beginning.

Ambivalent - that was how I felt the moment I received a message from you. You told me that you got the job and you were needed to report immediately. Of course, we talked about this months ago, but I didn't know it would happen before our Camotes trip. However, by surprise, you told me that you were able to talk it out with your head that you had a scheduled trip within a week. Do you know how happy I was how you were able to negotiate things?

So, I immediately coordinated with our focal person in Camotes to arrange for an earlier trip. The entire day had me calling different shipping lines about its schedules, requirements and all. I was just lucky enough that in the midst of the traffic, one of my co-workers called and told me that the Philippine Coastguard in Danao City could issue us passes for the trip since we work in the frontline, and I am a nurse, myself.

The universe was with us as we met that night prior to our trip. I was excited and at the same time, ambivalent. I was wondering if you could fit in with the island life. 

The Session and the Sidetrips

"What would you do if I was not around helping you out?" I didn't expect this question coming from you. We were driving our way to a wedding reception because our focal person was invited, and he brought us along with him. Literally, we were gatecrashing in a wedding. 

"I never would have done them better without you. Know that I am very appreciative and happy that you are around especially the late night errands." I didn't hesitate to reply because truly you were my knight in shining armor. Our conversation went on as we convoyed our focal person's motorbike. 

The island's magic began when nature showed us her beauty. The trees alongside the road spoke of a bewitching spell. The accompanying breeze made the afternoon air relaxing. The view of the hills and the sea concluded the simple islander life. All in all, Camotes Island created a magical barrier that made every traveler wandering in its lush beauty. 

The Evening Chats, Household Chores, and Deep Talks

Admittedly, I was awkward thinking how we can survive in a house together. For the first time I would be staying with you for three days in a house! I didn't imagine this and didn't anticipate whatsoever.

Day 1 - It was a hard beaten morning. I barely had enough sleep when the taxi driver fetch me at the apartment together with you. I slept most of the time from our trip until we reached the wharf, and even until we reached Camotes Island. I knew you were there watching over me and making sure everything would go well. 

When we were well-rested in the afternoon, we had the chance to explore the Municipal of Poro. From a cave to the beach and up until watching the sunset at the top of a cliff. It was totally a wonderful feeling. By the way, I was impressed by your cooking!

Day 2 - The sessions went smoothly for both morning and afternoon. As soon as we were done, we were then invited for a wedding and a town fiesta. I was amazed how synchronized we think - from dress code (colors), and how we see things. All the more, it made me believe in destiny. I was happy when you took the time to make that chocolate drink for while joining me doing my late night activity report!

Day 3 - We had the chance to explore Tulang Diot, another island in Camotes, before we headed back in the city. I was ecstatic not only because I was about to explore the place but I spent the experience with you. Thanks for the long drive (I know how you expressed how tired you were driving that motorbike). Above all, thanks for the lessons, support, and considering my diet. You see? A meat-eater and a vegetarian can eat in a restaurant altogether. 

End of the Project. New Responsibilities.

Writing this part is the heaviest feeling I had when I recalled all the things and the help you extended for me. As this project ends, so as meeting you frequently. I hope I could tell you personally how I want to stay with you a little longer but there were a lot of reservations in my part, and the fear that if I'd tell you how I feel, I would be losing the chance to see again. 

Nonetheless, for a short time, I was able to be with you and know you better. Always remember that I have been your avid fan since 2013. The time I spent with you was already an achievement in my part.

Dinner and the Talk

"You can tell me now. What is it?" you smiled at me while we had our dinner together.

I gulped an air of confidence and said, "I have been reading your blog since 2012. Last 2013, I was so down that the only thing that inspired to write was when I came across with your personal blog. I could read real emotions. I was entertained. But I never saw a person in your blog. I could only see that cow figure in different destinations. So, it was very mysterious for me. Thus, I wanted to see the writer behind the blog." 

You did not say a single thing. But I could see from your expression that you wanted to hear more. So I continued, "Can you remember our first meeting last 2016?" (I saw your puzzled expression but I provided you the information.)

"I crossed Olango Island just to see you. Remember about the newly-opened restaurant in my city? There were only three bloggers who were invited and I was one of them other than you and the other one. It was that moment that I was very happy to finally met the person behind the blog."

"I did not expect this from you, Gel. That blog was a diary for me. That was my personal blog. I guess, it added to its mystery that I only had that in the picture. I didn't show my face since I was shy back then," you said things as a matter of fact. But deep with those eyes, I saw how flattered you were. "But I am happy that it did something good to others."

Hearing that from you made me at ease. I was happy and I could see you were. 

I couldn't utter more but we ended the night with a sweet goodbye. 

Thanks for the help and I hope I could meet you again maybe not because of a certain project but for some other reasons.