you are in love

I never understood the romantic sentiment behind “if he wanted to, he would”. I was okay with having to ask - at one point, I had even resorted to begging for happiness.

They say timing is everything. I met him at a time when I was already jaded and worn out from trying to be loved, so I had shitty expectations about this “casual fling”.

I once jokingly said that my favorite trips are ones where my brain is off and that has only happened when I go with friends. For my birthday, he booked flights and made reservations to things he knew I’d like. He woke me up at midnight with cake, balloons he inflated himself, and some food. I started bawling when I realized he made carbonara using my mom’s recipe - I had mentioned in passing what my mom 🕊️ used to do for my birthday salubong.

He placed humidifiers in all the rooms I sleep in to avoid my dry coughing fits. He’d clumsily blow dry my hair whenever I would shower at night so I wouldn't wake up with a runny nose. His phone’s gallery are candids of me talking about the things that excite me - he said it’s always nice to see me hyped up and happy.

He’s firm with his boundaries, and yet patient while I work through my avoidant ways. He validates all my big feelings. He lets me do the same for him "because you're my life partner too”.

We’d talk about our dreams and I’m part of all his future plans. He ensured I’d be comfortable when hanging out with his friends. And he would shut down anyone who dared to speak badly to me, regardless of who it was. He gave me courage to take him to meet my not-so-perfect family.

Raised as the eldest daughter, the past few decades had me default to taking care of everything and everyone alone. Now I'm still getting used to having my heart held by gentle hands.

He knew I was an anxious driver, especially in terrible weather - so he made me coffee and picked me up. I dislike getting stuck in Manila traffic on rainy nights. But at that moment, I understood. If he wanted to, he would.

‘you are in love’ are for the sad girls and new beginnings ✨

scent strength guide