Words That Can't Be Written

Chapter 16

Nasa backstage ako ng makita ko si Aiden na pumasok ng room namin. He has this heavy awra in his face that makes me worry about his condition. He sat on the couch and closed his eyes. I called Philly to ask Aiden if he was okay.

I watch Philly walk in the direction of Aiden. Umiwas ako ng tingin at kunwari ay abala sa pag-aayos ng buhok at make-up ng tumingin sa tayo ko si Aiden.

Tumingin ako sa salamin para tignan sila. Abot-abot ng tahip ang aking puso ng makitang papalapit sa tayo ko si Aiden. Narinig ko din ang ingay ng ibang contestant at nagsimulang panoorin ang galaw naming dalawa.

Kumuha siya ng monoblock sa tabi, umupo at iniikot ang inuupuan ko para mapaharap ako sa kanya. Sinipit niya ang aking hita gamit ang kanyang tuhod at lalo pang pinalapit ang tayo namin.

Naiilang akong tumingan sa kanya lalo na ng isandal niya ang silo nya sa magkabilang gilid ko. "Philly said you are asking about me." Philly didn't understand my instruction.

I want Philly to ask Aiden in his own tone. Not because I just said so.

"I did. So, how are you?"

He look at my eyes intensively. Parang inaalam niya kung ano nga ba ang laman ng aking isip. Ako na ang unang pumutol ng aming pagtititigan. Bahagya akong nagulat ng isandal niya ang kanyang ulo sa aking legs at mas lalo pa akong hinapit palapit sa kanya Halos malaglag na ako sa aking kinakaupuan ng gawin niya iyon.

"I f*****g miss you, Ashiana Riziel. What did I do to you to avoid me like this."

Umiling ako sa kanya at nilaro na rin ang kanyang bagsak na buhok. Matagal ko syang yinakap bago ako sumagot sa kanyang tanong ng makakalma na ang aking buong sistema.

"You didn't do anything wrong. It was me who made a mistake. I already conclude that you are with your ex after saying you are going to court me."

He looks me disbelieve when I explain my side. "I don't even have an ex, Traciel is just my friend, okey?"

Tumango ako sa kanya at nanatili sa pagkakayakap "Did you jealous?"

Kinagat niya ang ang mapula niyang labi para pigilan ang kanyang pagngiti.

"Court me, Aiden." I said after kissing him on cheek.

Tumawa ako sa biglaang pagtayo niya at pagsigaw ng yes. Pati ang nasa loob ay naki-yes at sumabay sa pagsigaw ni Aiden na tila nanalo sa isang kompetisyon.

Hinanap ng mata ko si Traciel at nakita siyang masaya rin na nakapukol saamin ang atensyon. So they didn't have a thing? Dapat na ba akong makampante. I just smile and mind my own business.

Pinaalis ko na si Aiden dahil pinaghahanda na din kami ng mga coordinator. Magsisimula na ang question and answer and after that awarding na kung sino ang Mr. Ms. Ateneo.

Kinakabahan akong inantay na tawagan ako. Magkakaiba kami ng tanong na kailangang sagutan ayon sa tanong na binunot namin sa isang bowl.

"Now, let us call contestant no. 6 from BS psycology, ang gagamit ng inyong puso. Ashiana Riziel Bartolome."

I start to ramp with my long gown with my fierce awra. When I was already in the middle, I smiled before holding the mike and picking the question.

"Question for contestant no. 6. If you will be given a chance to choose between love or career, what will you choose?"

Before answering, I smiled to everyone sweetly to get their attention.

"Thank you for that thought-provoking question. If I were faced with the difficult choice between love and career, I would approach it with careful consideration and a deep understanding of my own values and aspirations. Love and career are both vital aspects of a fulfilling life, and finding the right balance between the two is key. In the pursuit of love, I believe in nurturing and cherishing meaningful connections with others. Love has the power to bring immense joy, support, and companionship, and it is a force that can inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves. However, I also recognize the importance of personal growth, independence, and the pursuit of my dreams. When it comes to my career, I am passionate about achieving my goals, making a positive impact, and realizing my full potential. It allows me to contribute to society, grow intellectually, and create opportunities for myself and others. A fulfilling career can bring a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and financial stability, which are all crucial elements in leading a fulfilling life. Therefore, if I were faced with the choice between love and career, I would strive to strike a harmonious balance between the two. I firmly believe that with open communication, understanding, and mutual support, it is possible to pursue both love and a successful career. It is about finding a partner who shares my values, supports my ambitions, and embraces the journey of personal and professional growth together. Ultimately, life is about finding happiness and fulfillment in all aspects, and I am confident that with determination, compromise, and a strong foundation of love and support, I can navigate the delicate dance between love and career, creating a life that is truly extraordinary. Thank you."

Everyone clap their hands and shout my name. Narinig ko din si daddy na sumisigaw sa crowed. Binigyan niya akong lumaban hanggang sa huli. I want to be the inspiration for everyone. I want them to be happy for their choice and to have the freedom to express their self and choose their own path. I smiled and walked to the backstage for the final walk.

"Ay, Ariba! Ariba! Psychologist! Iba ang ipinadala ng department ng psychology, halatang dodoctorin ang ating puso at isip. Thank you fro your wonderful asnwer Candidate No. 6. Now may I call the attention of candidate no. 7."

I curiously want to hear how Traciel answers her pick question. I know she will win this time. Everyone is waiting for her to compete because she is already competing even before I join.

Lalong lumakas ang malakpakan at hiyawan sa buong auditorium ng lumabas si Traciel. She looks so confident in differet angle. Hindi mo kakakitaan na kinakabahan siya. That made her stand out.

Na-curious tuloy ako ng bahagyang tumawa ang judge na magtatanong sa kanya.

"For your question contestant no. 7. In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, how do you think beauty pageants can stay relevant and meaningful?"

"Thank you for that intriguing question. In this ever-evolving digital era, beauty pageants have the incredible opportunity to adapt and remain relevant by embracing the power of technology. By utilizing social media platforms, live streaming, and interactive engagement, beauty pageants can reach a wider audience and create meaningful connections across the globe. Moreover, beauty pageants can continue to be a platform for empowering women and promoting diverse voices. We can use technology to amplify the stories and achievements of contestants, shedding light on their advocacies and causes. By leveraging digital platforms, we can inspire and educate people on important issues, fostering a global community united in making positive change. However, let us not forget the essence of beauty pageants, which lies in celebrating the beauty, grace, and intelligence of women. Despite the rise of technology, the core values of inclusivity, empowerment, and personal growth can remain at the forefront. By embracing innovation while staying true to our purpose, beauty pageants can continue to be a powerful force for positive transformation in the world. Thank you."

Napapalakpak ako sa kanyang sagot. She's very good in staying calm kahit na ang mukhang ibinigay sa kanya ng mga judges ay hindi mo kakakitaan ng satisfaction sa kanyang sagot. She's so matured at tama ang program na kinuha niya. It suits her persoanliy, she is an advocator and wanted to protect and sentence punishments those who at wrong.

When she's back at the backstage with me. I want to congratulate her, but she just passed without noticing me.

Maybe she's not okey. I heard she got hospitalized and she did her best to compete and represent her department.