Begin Again

The streets were alive with the vibrant day of March. For Oom, it was a day meant for simple joys. She had decided to visit a record store downtown, drawn by the thought of finally getting her hands on a vinyl of her favorite artist, The 1975. The store’s wooden door creaked as she stepped inside, the faint crackle of an old song playing from hidden speakers adding to the charm of the moment.

She wandered through rows of vinyls, her fingers lightly skimming over their glossy covers. And there it was—a pristine copy of Being Funny In a Foreign Language. A smile lit up her face as she reached out to claim it, her heart skipping at the thought of listening to her favorite songs in analog perfection.

But just as her fingers brushed against the edge, another hand appeared—reaching past her to grab a different vinyl tucked behind it. Startled, Oom turned her gaze to the stranger. Her breath caught as she took in the stranger’s profile, her mind racing with a feeling both unsettling and familiar.

Everything seemed to slow, the store’s ambient noise fading into the background.

"Saeb..?" She murmured, barely above a whisper.

The stranger turned, meeting her wide-eyed stare with a look of surprise that melted into a charming grin. “Hi, Miss Gorgeous,” She said, her tone teasing yet warm. “Nice to meet you… again.”

The words hung in the air, and Oom felt a rush of disbelief, joy, and something she couldn’t quite name. Saeb’s smile widened, and for a moment, the world felt small and perfect. The memory of their New Year’s encounter flooded back—the warmth of that connection they’d both silently hoped would return.

“I never thought I would see you again.” Saeb’s voice pulled her back to the present, her tone light but her eyes searching.

Oom let out a soft laugh, still dazed. “It feels surreal seeing you here. What are the odds?”

Saeb shrugged playfully, her eyes sparkling. “Maybe the odds were in our favor.”

A moment of quiet settled between them, the kind that wasn’t awkward but brimming with possibilities.

“How are you?” Oom finally asked, her voice steady despite her racing heart.

Saeb tilted her head, her smile softening. “Better now, honestly. What about you?”

Oom looked down at the BFIAFL vinyl still in her hands and then back at Saeb. “Same. Much better now.”

Saeb's eyes flickered with curiosity as she gestured to the vinyl in Oom's hands. "You like The 1975?" She asked.

"Yeah," Oom said with a small smile, glancing back at the album. "My favorite album, honestly."  

"Nice choice," Saeb said, leaning slightly closer to look at the tracklist. "I like them, too. My favorite's Undo."  

Without missing a beat, Oom responded, "I'm in love with you."  

The words hung in the air like a thunderclap. Saeb froze, her eyes widening in shock as her cheeks flushed. "Ha? What? You're in love with me?" She blurted out, her voice louder than she intended.  

Oom snapped her head up, equally startled. Her eyes widened as she realized the misunderstanding, and she quickly shook her head. "I said my favorite is I'm In Love With You," She clarified, her tone hurried but firm.  

Saeb blinked, the words sinking in slowly. Oh..? I didn't quite hear that..! She thought, her face growing impossibly red. This is so embarrassing.

"Oh!" She exclaimed, letting out an awkward laugh to cover her flustered state. "I didn't hear the first words." She scratched the back of her neck nervously. "My bad."  

Oom chuckled, the tension melting into something lighter. "It’s funny,”

Saeb joined in the laughter, though her heart still raced. "Well," she said, recovering her composure, "That's a great choice. The song, I mean."  

Oom smiled, her gaze softening. "Thanks. It’s got this… warm, hopeful feeling to it."  

Saeb nodded, her own smile growing. "Kind of like this moment, don’t you think?"  

“You know… I don’t mind, though,” Oom had said, her voice light, but her smile—there was something more to it. Then, just like that, she turned and walked past Saeb, the faint scent of her perfume lingering in the air.  

“Don’t mind what?” Saeb wondered. The words played on repeat, teasing her thoughts. 

She turned to glance at Oom, who was now at the counter, paying for the BFIAFL vinyl. Saeb’s gaze lingered on her, noticing the way Oom seemed completely at ease, as if she wasn’t even aware of the seed of curiosity she had planted.  

Oom doesn’t mind being in love with Saeb. 

When Oom finished at the counter, she turned, her eyes meeting Saeb’s. Saeb was still standing there, staring at her with a curious yet soft expression, as if trying to piece something together.  

"Saeb," Oom said, her voice warm. "I’m gonna wait for you outside." She gave a gentle smile before walking toward the door.

Saeb blinked out of her thoughts and hurried to pay for her vinyl, fumbling slightly in her eagerness. Once done, she rushed outside, not wanting to keep Oom waiting for even a second.  

"Hi, I’m here," Saeb announced, slightly out of breath but grinning widely.  

Oom turned, her smile widening when she saw her. "Great," She said, her tone carrying a hint of playful expectation. "Are you by chance free right now?"  

Saeb tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "Yep. I just thought of buying vinyl today. Why?"  

Oom’s smile turned into something more mischievous. "Let’s eat lunch?"  

Saeb blinked, her heart skipping a beat at the casual yet bold suggestion. She nodded almost immediately, unable to hide her excitement. "Sure! Any place in mind?"  

"Let’s figure it out together," Oom said with a light laugh.  

—

The two walked side by side, the lively streets around them blending into their conversation. Saeb couldn’t help but steal glances at Oom, her heart racing slightly with every shared laugh or smile.  

They eventually found a cozy little café tucked away on a quiet street corner. The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods greeted them as they stepped inside.  

“I didn’t expect to bump into you again like this,” Saeb admitted as they settled into a table near the window.  

“Neither did I,” Oom said, her tone soft as she traced the rim of her coffee cup. “I guess some things are meant to happen.”

Saeb chuckled. “You say that like it’s fate or something.”  

“Maybe it is,” Oom said with a shrug, her eyes twinkling.  

Their food arrived, and as they ate, the conversation flowed effortlessly. They talked about their favorite music, childhood stories, and even the little quirks they noticed in each other during their brief New Year’s encounter.  

At one point, Saeb leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. “You’re... different, you know? In a good way.”  

Oom tilted her head, “Alright, how so?”

Saeb hesitated for a moment before smiling. “Like... you make me want to know more. About everything. About you.”  

Oom’s cheeks warmed, but she masked it with a small laugh. “Careful, Saeb. Are you flirting with me?”

Saeb laughed, holding up her hands in mock surrender. “Caught me. But can you blame me? The moment I saw you in the welcoming of New Year's day, you charmed me. Just like I said to the piece of paper I gave you.”

The playful banter carried on, and by the time they left the café, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon.

As they stood outside, Oom turned to Saeb, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Today was nice. Thank you.”  

Saeb scratched the back of her neck, grinning sheepishly. “And thank you as well. I don’t think I’ve had a day like this in a long time.”  

Oom took a step closer, her voice quieter now. “Then maybe we shouldn’t let it be the last?”  

Saeb’s eyes widened slightly before a smile broke across her face. “I’d like that.”  

And with that, they exchanged numbers and bid a goodbyes.

“I'll see you the next times, Oaboom. Text me when you get home.”

“Bye, Saeb. Take care!”

What a beautiful day

—

July 2025

It was a lazy afternoon when Saeb decided to pick up her phone, her heart racing slightly. She had been thinking about inviting Oom to a gig for days now, but every time she thought about it, her nerves got the better of her.  

Finally, she typed out a message.  

Saeb: Pretty, What are you up to this weekend? 

The reply came almost instantly.  

Oom:Hmm, nothing much. Why? Planning something fun?  

Saeb hesitated for a moment before typing her next message.  

Saeb:There’s this band playing Saturday night at a small venue downtown. They’re amazing live. Thought it’d be cool if you came with me?

          There are more artists. I'm just really looking forward for this one the most.

The typing bubble appeared almost immediately, then disappeared. It came back again, and Saeb felt her nerves spike.  

Oom:A band? That sounds interesting. What's the name?  

Saeb:Solace Out The Door, a new band from Philippines. They have a vacation here in Thailand. I think you’d really like them. Even if you won't understand the language.

Oom:Tempting. Are you sure you want to take me, though?

Saeb frowned at her screen, quickly typing back.  

Saeb: Of course I’m sure. Why wouldn’t I be?  

Oom: I don’t know. Maybe you have someone else in mind?

Saeb rolled her eyes, grinning at the playful tone she could practically hear through the text.  

Saeb:Nope. I only want you to come. It wouldn’t feel the same otherwise.

There was a longer pause this time, and Saeb found herself holding her breath.  

Oom:Alright, I’m in. But you’re paying for snacks.

Saeb laughed, relief washing over her.  

Saeb:Deal. You won’t regret it. I promise.  

Oom:Looking forward to it >< 

Saeb put down her phone, she couldn’t stop the smile spreading across her face. Saturday couldn’t come soon enough.

— 

Saturday night arrived, and Saeb found herself nervously standing in front of her mirror, adjusting her new outfit for what felt like the hundredth time. She had spent the entire afternoon shopping for the perfect look, wanting to make a good impression on Oom.  

“Okay, this works,” Saeb mumbled to herself, tugging slightly at the hem of her jacket. Her phone buzzed on the desk, and she grabbed it quickly, sending a message to Oom.  

Saeb:Hey, do you want me to pick you up. Using my car.

The reply came after a few moments.  

Oom:You have a car? You don't look like a car woman.

Saeb: Yeah, but I barely use it. I usually walk everywhere. But tonight’s special.

Oom:Special huh?

Saeb:Well.. I mean, I’m bringing a gorgeous girl. Feels like a car-worthy situation, don’t you think?

The typing bubble appeared, then disappeared, and Saeb’s heart raced.  

Oom:Flatterer. Alright, pick me up then. I’ll send you my address.  

The message came with an address attached, and Saeb couldn’t help the grin that spread across her face. She grabbed her keys and headed out, her nerves replaced by a mix of excitement and anticipation.  

When Saeb arrived outside Oom’s place, she texted her again.  

Saeb:I’m here! Take your time, no rush. 

Before Saeb could tuck her phone away, the front door of Oom’s house creaked open. The world seemed to slow as Oom stepped out, her presence striking like a scene from a movie. She looked effortlessly stunning, her outfit simple yet chic, radiating a quiet confidence that made Saeb’s breath hitch.  

As if on cue, a certain lyrics of Latch by Disclosure and Sam Smith played softly through the car speakers.  

“What did you give me  

To make my heart beat out my chest?" 

The lyrics synced perfectly with the moment, amplifying the intensity of Oom’s arrival. For Saeb, it felt surreal, the universe itself had choreographed this perfect entrance just for her.  

Oom caught Saeb’s wide-eyed gaze as she approached the woman waiting for her. “You're different today, hmm,” she teased, her voice light and amused.  

Snapping out of her daze, Saeb laughed quickly stepped out of the car to open the door for her. “You’re one to talk,” she said, unable to stop herself from grinning. “You look… incredible.”  

Oom smiled, a playful glint in her eyes as she slid into the passenger seat. “Thanks. You're absolutely stunning.”

“I'm looking forward to the band. They’d better be worth the hype you’ve been giving them.”  

“Oh, trust me,” Saeb said as she settled into the driver’s seat, her confidence returning. “They’ll blow you away even if having one song at the moment.”

Oom chuckled, shaking her head at Saeb’s boldness. “Bold words,” she said, her tone teasing. 

They drove through the night, the car filled with soft music and warm conversation. Her focus kept drifting to Oom, her laughter, the way her eyes lit up when she talked. 

For a moment, Saeb thought, Heaven ever sent an angel, for only divine hands could craft a soul so perfect, meant to teach my heart how to love.

—

They arrived at the venue, the lively buzz of the crowd filling the air. The low murmur of excited chatter blending with the faint sound of instruments being tuned on stage. Oom and Saeb made their way inside. 

As they approached the stage, Oom’s eyes widened in surprise. “Oh wow, a female-dominated band,” She said, her voice tinged with admiration as she looked up at the performers setting up.

Saeb nodded, a hint of excitement in her voice. “Yeah, I’ve barely encountered female-dominated bands, or maybe it’s just that I usually focus on my favorites.” She gave a small shrug, glancing at Oom. “But I’m excited for you to see this. They’re pretty amazing. It's them I was talking about.”

Oom raised an eyebrow. “I’m starting to think you know how to pick a good band,” she teased, nudging Saeb lightly.

Saeb laughed, feeling a rush of warmth at the playful touch. “I try,” she replied, her smile widening. “Let’s go closer. I reserved a spot near the front, right by the stage.” 

They moved closer to the stage, the energy around them rising. Oom’s excitement was visible, her eyes scanning the band members as they prepared. 

Once they reached their reserved spot, Saeb turned to Oom, offering her a knowing smile. “I told you, didn’t I? You’re going to love it here.”

The lights dimmed, and the crowd's energy surged as the band took their places on stage. The vocalist and rhythm guitarist, a woman with striking confidence, stepped forward, gripping the mic as she scanned the crowd with a bright smile. 

"Hi, everyone!" she called out, her voice ringing clear and strong, drawing cheers from the audience. "We are Solace Out The Door, a new band from The Philippines. We create music about finding comfort in the uncomfortable."

The crowd cheered again.

The lead singer’s gaze swept across the venue, her eyes locking with Oom and Saeb for a brief moment. "Here is our debut song, Tumalon, meaning Jumped," she continued. "This song is about the uncertainties we face as we come to the phase of falling in love—those full of thoughts, wondering if the person you care for feels the same way as you do."

"It's about risking. You will never know the answers you've been seeking. So I guess, Jump to know." 

The intro chords began to play. The audience was hyped, the tension building as the band prepared to perform. Saeb and Oom exchanged a look, both feeling the weight of the moment.

<Play Tumalon by Solace Out The Door as you read>

bold italic = english translation of lyrics

Tumalon sa kinatatayuan,

Damdaming di mo masabi ay hayaan nalang,

Hayaan kong tumaya sa atin man lang,

Hinding hindi malalaman kung di titignan,

[Jump from where you are standing,

Feelings you can't express, just let them be.

Let it at least bet on us.

You will never know if you don't look.]

Paano nga ba kasi masasabi?

Kung mahal na kita?

Umiingay ba dapat ang paligid?

Sa sobrang kaba,

[How can I even say it?

If I already love you?

Should the surroundings be noisy?

Out of extreme nervousness,]

The vocalist’s words hit home, resonating with something deep inside them both—something about vulnerability, the uncertainty of feelings, and the hope of something more.

Kahit di sigurado ay,

Ang alam ko eto na talaga,

Di ma pigilan bugso ng damdamin,

Sayo lang nadarama, (di na mapigilan pa)

[Even if it's uncertain,

What I know is that this is really it.

Can't hold back the surge of emotions,

Only you can feel it, (it can't be stopped anymore)]

Ganoon din ba sayo? 

Ganoon din ba sayo?

[Is it the same for you?

Is it the same for you?]

As the band continued to perform, Saeb couldn’t help but watch Oom. The music was loud, vibrant, and full of energy, but Saeb was focused on how Oom was enjoying it. Even though Oom didn’t understand the language, she was clearly feeling the emotion in the song.

Kumukulay din ba?

Ang langit sayo pag ako ang kasama?

Nais kong malaman kasi,

Pag ikaw ang tanaw ko ang kulay mas sumisigla,

[Does the heaven color

You too when I'm with you?

I want to know because,  

When I see you, the colors become more vibrant.]

The crowd swayed, lost in the rhythm, but Saeb’s gaze never left Oom. Saeb watched as Oom closed her eyes for a moment, feeling the music rather than listening to it, her face softening with the intensity of the moment.

Para ba akong nabingi at muling nakarinig ng awitin,

Bigla bigla nalang pumikit ang mata ikaw na ang tanawin,

Di makakaya di ka para sakin,

Di makakayang di ka maging akin,

[It’s like I’ve been deaf and suddenly heard a song again,  

Suddenly, my eyes just closed, and you became the view.  

Can’t handle that you’re not for me.  

Can't handle it if you don't become mine.]

The lyrics lingered in the air and Saeb felt something stir deep inside her. She could tell Oom was feeling it too, even without understanding every word. It was the way Oom’s lips curved into a small, appreciative smile, how her body gently swayed with the beat. The music, in its purest form, had a way of speaking directly to the heart.

Saeb felt a quiet thrill at the sight—Oom, so immersed in the music, her eyes closed now as if she were living in the song’s world. The song was more than just words—it was an experience, one they were sharing together, even in silence.

As the song reached its peak, Saeb leaned in slightly toward Oom, their hands almost brushing. She smiled softly to herself, feeling a quiet sense of satisfaction. 

This moment, the music, it was enough to say everything that needed to be said.

—

They walked quietly to the parking lot, the soft hum of the city in the distance. 

Oom turned to Saeb, her face glowing with the after effects of the performance. “That was amazing, Saeb. I don’t understand the language, but I loved it,” she said, her voice full of genuine appreciation. “I loved the other artists, too.”

Saeb smiled, her heart warm from Oom’s words. “I knew you would enjoy it,” she replied. “That’s why I thought being here with you at their gig would be perfect.”

Oom nodded, her smile still wide. "I’m glad you brought me." She looked around, then turned back to Saeb. “Shall we go home? You’ve already treated me to great food and an awesome band.”

Saeb chuckled, feeling a bit of pride in how the night had gone. “Let’s head out. I’m glad you had fun.” 

Saeb opened the car door for Oom, watching as she slid into the passenger seat with a small sigh, relaxed after the night. She closed the door softly and made her way to the driver’s side. 

The car glided smoothly down the streets, the rhythmic hum of the tires on the road blending with the soft music. Neither of them spoke, but it wasn’t awkward. It was that comfortable silence that only comes when two people are completely at ease with each other, each lost in their own thoughts but perfectly content to share the moment.

Saeb feel that this was exactly where she wanted to be—just driving, just existing in this shared space with Oom, with no need for words.

—

The car came to a stop in front of Oom's building. The woman turned to Saeb with a soft smile. “I had so much fun. Thank you so much.”

Saeb smiled warmly, her heart light. “My pleasure. I’ll head off once you’re inside.”

Oom nodded, opening the door slowly. She hesitated for a moment, then began walking toward the building, her steps slow and unhurried. Saeb watched her, a quiet sense of satisfaction settling over her as she took in the sight of Oom’s graceful movements from the opened window.

Just as Oom reached the door, she stopped and turned around, surprising Saeb. 

“Oh? You forgot something?” Saeb asked, her voice light with curiosity.

Oom smiled, her eyes soft and knowing. “Yes.”

Saeb raised an eyebrow, intrigued, and before she could ask anything more, Oom walked back toward the car, toward her.

Then, in a simple yet meaningful gesture, Oom leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on Saeb’s cheek, lingering for a few seconds. 

“Take care, Saeb. Good night,” Oom said, her voice tender.

Saeb sat frozen for a moment, her mind racing, heart pounding from the unexpected, yet sweet, kiss. She watched as Oom turned and finally entered the building, leaving Saeb in a stunned silence. 

Oh my gosh.. She kissed me?!

She blinked, her face still warm from the kiss. She sat there for a few moments, taking it all in—before her lips curved into a dazed, contented smile.

OOM KISSED ME.