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XIII. Distant
It’s a small world after all… and Bayanihan Town is just a speck of dust. All its corners cannot hide from the storm. It cannot keep Essi and Oneil aloof. After all those pleas yesterday, the two only have a little distance at the market. Oneil is up for his work in the rice store while Essi is in aim to stock some groceries. The sky is in the mood for bad weather, and the people are in the business to get ready for a coming storm.
“Son, why are your thoughts away? I told you I want this variety of rice instead of what you are preparing,” the old woman told Oneil.
“I’m sorry, ma’am.”
The old woman understood him. “Young man, strengthen your mind to be in focus amid all problems. Don’t let your youthful years be clouded with worry.”
Oneil smiled while scaling the rice. The old woman asked him of his name. Instead of the one he used to wear, he intended to mention Oneil. Perhaps, by this, Essi will forgive his words of yesterday near-evening. He glanced
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