Time flies so fast when you are busy on something. Who would have thought that it’s December already. Christmas songs can be heard anywhere. And since I’m newbie at work, no one knows that it is my birthday today. Maybe Ms. Jeanne knows but I doubt she’ll telltale, right? I hope not.

Through those three months, I learned all the things I need to learn that is necessary for my job. Paul and I became closer though sometimes, I feel a little bit awkward being with him alone especially when we go home together. Up until now, I don’t have the courage to ask why he waits for me almost every day even though he can clock out at 2pm. I don’t wanna be obvious or even think anything beyond that because I might reveal my feelings for him. And to avoid any rumors at work, I decided to act as professional as I can. Though sometimes, I can’t hide the smile in my face everytime I see him at the factory. I can’t hide the fact that I felt like I’m melting inside when he smiles brightly every time he sees me. I don’t know if my feelings for him is really unrequited or his flirting at me or if this is what they called fling but what I know is, I have to hide it from any one. Or else they will think that I am easy-to-get. I don’t wanna be the talk of the town because of this matter.

“What do you wanna eat for today, fish, pork or beef?” Victoria, our newly hired QC staff, asked. Stephy requested for an assistant since the factory is in full production to secure enough stocks before the annual shutdown. Checking all the products in the factory would be difficult if she works on it alone.

“I want the beef caldereta, my favorite. With one serving of rice please.” Charlotte said. Our newly hired sales staff.

The three of us get close easily with each other since we are the newbie. Or maybe because we are all at the same age.

“Are you sure one rice will suffice? I know you can eat more than that.” I teased Charlotte. But despite eating like a construction worker, it won’t affect her figure. I envy those girls who have great metabolism like her.

“I’ll take the beef caldereta with one serving of rice as well.” I added. Victoria volunteered to buy the food for us today and I don’t know why they are extra kind to me today. Charlotte is acting weird as well. She asked me to help her in the middle of breaktime instead of going out together.

After a few minutes, our food arrives. So we went to the QC office, which is our favorite place to hang out. Besides, there is a huge glass window in front of it so I can oversee the factory right there. While in the middle of our meal, someone knock on the door. And when I opened the door, someone has been holding the cake with candle and they started singing. I knew it! There’s something wrong with these and they even connive with Paul. Of all people, why Paul? Don’t tell me---

“Hey! Blow the candle! Stop staring at Paul!” Victoria said. I hate these girls! Why did they do that? And how did they know that it’s my birthday today. Now how can I stop my heart from beating so fast! I swiftly blow the candle and turn away from Paul or else he might here my heart pounding like crazy.

“Don’t you wanna eat your cake?” Paul asked. I don’t know why but I feel so shy to look at him. There’s nothing wrong with what he said and he didn’t do anything aside from holding the cake but I can’t help but to feel nervous. Enzey, come on! Gather yourself and eat the cake!

“O-oh! The cake. Right. The cake. Thank you for the cake.” I stuttered. What’s happening with you, Enzey?! How can a cake make you so nervous?

“Happy birthday, Ma’am.” Paul said as he passes the cake. And like any cliché drama, my hand touches his. And for some reason, I can’t remove my hand or else the cake might drop. Fortunately, Paul handed the cake properly and slips his hand carefully.

“Are you okay? It seems like your hands are trembling. Was it because of shock or is it because of too much excitement? He smiled at me as if he’s teasing me. This guy is really annoying. He really knows how to flirt even at times like this.

“A-ahm. Maybe because I was just surprise. Thank you guys. I’m sorry I can’t treat you today.” I said trying to change the topic.

“No, it’s okay. We weren’t expecting anything in return. We just want to celebrate your birthday and give you the cake.” Charlotte explained.

“So what did you wish a while ago?” Victoria asked while raising her left eyebrow as if waiting for me to tell what she really wants to hear. But not me Victoria, I won’t fall into your trap. And how can I even make a wish right at that time when I’m in so much awe.

“Well, wishing for a good health and longer life for me and my family, as always.” I answered confidently to escape from her evil plan.

“Good to hear that. Anyway, I have to go back to my area and do some rounds. Enjoy your day!” Paul excused himself.

“Don’t you want to eat some cake?” Charlotte asked him as he was about to leave.

“Will you just save me a slice and take it later in my break?” Paul answered.

“Sure. Just asked Enzey where we will keep it.” Charlotte said.

As Paul leaves the room, I took the chance to talk this out with these two ladies before going back to work. I closed the door and intentionally slammed it.

“First of all, I want to thank both you for the cake and the greetings. I really appreciate it.” Then I smiled at them. I’m sincerely grateful for that. “However, I have few questions for the two of you?” And they started to giggle as if they were expecting me to act this way.

“What?! What do you wanna know? How did we know that it’s your birthday today? Or do you wanna know how did we knew about you having feelings for Paul?!” Victoria said as they enjoy teasing me. I’m dying to kill this two, really!

“Both. Be true to your answers, please.” I firmly stated. Acting I’m serious.

“We heard from Mara that it’s your birthday today. It’s her idea to buy the cake and we just took action to it. About Paul… it’s because we have two eyes and bright mind?!” Charlotte sarcastically answered. So this is what you want ha?! Okay! I’ll make you taste your own medicine.

“Oh really huh?! So that’s the reason! I sincerely thank you girls for the cake and the surprise. I really appreciate it.” And I smiled at them to show how grateful I am.” However… I have to tell you as well that I also have two beautiful and sharp eyes and a bright mind. Do you want me to tell Marc and David about your feelings for them after our meeting later?”

They were both in shocked to hear that I know who their crush is. I know that Victoria has feelings for David because I caught her staring at him while fixing the machine for 1liter gallon yesterday. I’m so familiar to that kind of stare because I’m so use to it. I also look at Paul that way unknowingly especially when he’s smiling. And last week, I saw Charlotte and Ms. Laura teasing each other as Marc was assigned to check the electrical wirings at the Sales office. It’s not that I don’t know anything; I’m just good at feigning.

“How did you know that?” They both asked in awe. I just shrugged my shoulder as we were eating the cake. Serves you right, huh? We continuously chat together and went back to work as usual.

=========

Thank God it’s Friday, and Friday the 13th as well. But I won’t mind since its Taylor Swift's and my Birthday. I’m so excited to go home today because The Girls and I will be celebrating my birthday at home.

“Where are you? I haven’t seen you clocked out at the biometrics.”

Paul texted. I thought he went home already. I was about to reply on his text message when someone put his arm around my shoulder. And in my shocked, I almost dropped my phone. Fortunately, he was able to catch it using his other hand. Another scene caught from any other cliché drama scene.

“Are you okay? I thought you left me already? Luckily, I know that it’s you even from afar.” He said as he flashes his irresistible smile. And my heart starts pounding like crazy once again. Will you please shut up or else, he’ll notice what you really feel for him. Stop it, okay?

“O-Oh. I thought you left already. I didn’t think you’ll wait for me today.” I said while slowly escaping from his arm wrapping my shoulder.

“You should have texted me.” He exclaimed.

And why should I text you? I know I have a crush on you but you said that you ask for my number for the work-related matters. Besides, why would I ask you if you left already or not? Do I really have to? On what purpose? I don’t even know if you’re actions towards me are genuine or you’re just flirting at me. I don’t even know if you’re single or in a relationship and I wouldn’t dare to ask. And how would I ever do that? Do I even have the right to do that? And dozens of questions continuously flashed in when that statement sinks in to my mind.

“Hey! Are you okay?” he asked as I was staring blankly after he said that.

“Yeah, I’m okay.” I answered nonchalantly.

“Why didn’t you tell me that it’s your birthday today? I don’t even have time to prepare a gift for you.” He said while sulking.

“I can still receive gifts until Monday.” I murmured but quite loud enough for him to hear.

Angel passed by. It seems like we’re out of words to tell so I just look at my phone and checked who chatted me. It seems our group chat hasn’t been this active. Or maybe because they are updating each other where are they right now. So I just send a message to them just to update as well.

Me: Waiting for the bus. On my way home.

Chae: I’m on the jeepney going to LRT Monumento station.

Lou: Should we wait for you in Central Station Chae?

Chae: Yes, please. It’s getting dark, I don’t wanna get lost. I’m still not used to travelling alone going to Enzey’s house.

Lou: Sure, sure.

Rosé: Me too. I’m coming with you @Chae and @Lou.

Lou: Okieee

Zelle: Wait for me too, please~

Lou: Owkey~

Rosé: yizzz

Anne: Ritz, I’ll be waiting for you at the mall.

Ritz: Copy that.

Me: See y’all~

I couldn’t help but smile because of these girls. And I miss them so much already. I haven’t seen them after our Graduation Ball. I couldn’t imagine life without them.

“Who are you chatting with?” Paul asked. I forgot he’s with me right now.

“My friends.” I answered.

“Are you meeting them somewhere?” He asked while smiling. I feel something strange with his question. It’s as if he’s planning something or what.

“Uhm, yeah. They will be staying in our house tonight, to celebrate.” I answered.

“Can I join?” Aahm, I don’t know what to say. I don’t know how I will respond to that question. My brother’s friend will come tonight so we’re not totally all girls so I wouldn’t mind. However, there’s no room for him to stay. Of course, I want to invite him in but I don’t know if it will be okay to the girls. But, it’s my birthday and it’s our house so it’s my prerogative if should I let him in or out. Mom I said I should invite my officemates but Mara, Charlotte and Victoria has prior plans so they couldn’t come. So Paul will do, right?

“You can come but I couldn’t invite you stay over the night because we’re all girls in the room. And I guess you’ll understand that, right?” I asked.

“Sure. I’ll go home when the party is over.” He said with full of excitement.

“I’m sorry to disappoint you but there will be no party. It’s just a small celebration.” I explained.

“Ah. Celebration. Okay, I’ll go home after the celebration is over.” He said.

“Okay. Let’s go. The bus is coming.”

So we went home together. And like any other day, since its Friday, the queuing in tricycle terminal is very long. Fortunately, girls were trapped in traffic so I don’t have rush. But after an hour waiting for our turn, finally, we came home but I was shocked when all girls are in the house already. And as expected, their eyes were full of malice while looking at me and Paul arriving together.

“Mom, we’re home.” I shouted while coming in to break that awkward silence while smiling at girls.

“Come in. No need to feel shy. They are quite wild when drunk but they are all harmless.” I cracked a joke trying to calm the awkward atmosphere. Or is it just me, feeling that way.

“Anyway, I’m with my officemate. He’s Paul.” Introducing Paul to my mom.

“Good evening Ma’am.” He greeted and flashes his captivating smile. Nice, Paul. Nice.

“Mom as in short for mommy?” Mom being a joker as always.

“Ma’am as in M-A-A-M. But I wouldn’t mind calling you mom as in short for mommy if you would like to.” Paul answered wittily. And they both laughed at their conversation.

“Feel at home, I’ll just take a bath and change my clothes.” I told him.

“Do you really have to say that as if you’re inviting him to come with you?” Zelle whispered while hugging me. “Happy Birthday!” She uttered while tapping my shoulder to let me do what I ought to.

“Thank you~~~” I said sarcastically.

When I came out from my room, everything’s ready. Food, drinks, desserts and of course, the cake with candle. I am always grateful to have these people in my life. Celebrating my birthday with my family and friends makes me feel how lucky I am and having Paul with me today is a bonus. Not all birthday celebrant can celebrate their birthday with their crush.

Our little party goes on but of course, how can I escape the girls’ interrogation. They wouldn’t let the night to end just like that without asking who Paul is and why is he with me when I have dozens of officemate who I can invite today. Luckily, Paul is drinking with my elder brother and his friends since he’s the only guy who tags along with us. So while preparing our drinks and chips, the interrogation starts at the kitchen.

“So who’s the guy who went home with you today?” Anne starts.

“As I’ve mentioned a while ago, he’s my officemate.” I replied.

“Just an officemate? I doubt.” Ritz adding fuel to the fire.

“He is.” I answered shortly trying not to make any mistake or else the night wouldn’t be enough to explain everything.

“Enzey, we know you so much so don’t have to hide it. What friends are for?” Chae uttered.

“Okay, okay! I have a crush on him.” I admitted to stop them from bullying me.

“And so is he?” Lou asked that caught everyone’s attention.

“Hmm. Not sure.” I answered. Trying to calm myself.

“Not sure but you bring him home? Nice.” Rosé being sarcastic to my answer.

“Mom said I should invite some of my officemates and so I did. It just so happened that no one’s available but him. And since I like him, I wouldn’t mind inviting him around if that will make me happy, right?” I answered trying to be confident in front of them.

“WOOOOOAH!” They all exclaimed.

“I’m proud of you Enzey. I hope you’ll both work it out. Let’s go outside and enjoy the drinks. Let’s celebrate your future love life.” Maita said while bringing the chips in the living room.

Everyone's drunk and the midnight passed by. Maybe it’s time to sleep and Paul has to leave. Luckily, I’m just feeling tipsy but not yet drunk. Thanks to the game, I’m still alive though I also drink a lot of that cocktail drink.

“Enzey, where’s your mom? I have to say goodbye before I leave.” He said.

“Thank you for the thought but they are already sleeping.” I explained.

“Is that so? Okay. Just tell her that I enjoyed the food.” He said.

“Sure. Let’s go. I’ll walk you out to the subdivision’s gateway.” I offered.

“Okay. Are you sure you can walk up to there? Aren’t you feeling dizzy?” He asked worrying about me. Wait, what? He’s worrying about me? Even I’m quite drunk right now, I can feel how my heart skip a beat just because of those lines. You’re unbelievable, Enzey.

“Yeah. I’m okay. I can manage.” And I smiled.

As we were about to go out the gate, I suddenly slipped and lose my balance. Fortunately, Paul holds my hand and his other hand grabbed my waist. I was also shocked with what happened. But what made me shocked even more is when I looked at him. Our eyes met as if the gravity is pulling us together. He slowly helped me to stand up properly but the alcohol in my nerves is acting up. It’s making me weak. But I tried my best to pull myself up but he gently pinned me on the wall. I don’t know why but it seems like this scene is quite familiar. I’ve seen this before in most of the dramas I’ve watched. And this is when they---- they, they START THEIR FIRST KISS! Oh my gally! Is this really happening? Is this true? Enzey, snap it out. I think you’re just too drunk. You are both drunk.

I started to pull myself and tried to stand up but he stopped me from moving. Instead, he looks at me, eye to eye. His gaze was different from most of the time that he looks at me. I feel like I was being under his spell as he slowly comes near me. His face started to move and the space between the two of us is getting smaller. I can feel his breath and the smell of alcohol lingers but I couldn’t refuse from that gaze. He started to tilt his head as if he’s looking for the perfect angle to let our lips meet perfectly. He started kissing me. His lips were so soft when it landed on my lips but he keeps his gaze at my eyes as if he’s waiting for my approval if he can do that to me. But unknowingly, being my mind clouded of this sweet scenario, I don’t know if it is my desire to enjoy the night since it’s my day or maybe because of the alcohol, I just shut my eyes. And he started moving his lips as if it is the permission that he’s been waiting for. I didn’t know I can be as good as I am right now in kissing.

His kiss deepens as he pulls my nape and just breathes in between without pulling our lips away from each other. His other hand travels from my shoulder down to my arms and slowly down to my waist and started pulling it towards his. Everything seems magical. It’s as if we were used to it. It feels like our body moves in harmony. I am out of breath. As much as I want to continue, I still want to live so I have to inhale oxygen more than being controlled by this oxytocin. So instead of talking in between and asked him to stopped, I just pulled out my lips and hug him tightly instead. I can hear his heavy breathe in my ears. Then he suddenly whispered...

“Happy Birthday, Enzey.” Then another kiss landed on my cheeks and he continued hugging me tightly.

I can hear someone’s approaching but I couldn’t care more. I just wanna enjoy and get drunk by this moment. Until…

“Enzey, where’s the---- Oops! Sorry!” Rosé exclaimed as she was shocked from what she saw.

Then the romantic night under the moonlight ended up being comic thanks to my friend.