As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the familiar streets of Faraway Town, Aubrey bids farewell to her friends, the hooligans, as she takes Bun-Bun in her arms, the white bunny nuzzling against her cheek. With a smile, she promises to bring the fluffy pet home safely.
Basil waves goodbye first, his gentle demeanor reflecting in his gesture as he says, "Take care, Aubrey. Give Bun-Bun some extra treats from me."
Hero, Kel, and Sunny exchange curious glances, especially since Basil doesn't have a pet of his own. Sunny speaks up, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity, "Hey, Basil, do you think taking care of plants counts as caring for someone too? I mean, if you make sure they're always healthy and happy."
Basil nods thoughtfully, adjusting his camera bag on his shoulder. "Absolutely, Sunny. Taking care of plants is like nurturing life in a different way. You ensure they have enough sunlight, water, and care to thrive."
Hero chimes in, "It's like creating a small ecosystem of growth and beauty. I bet your plants are flourishing under your care, Basil."
Kel adds with a grin, "Yeah, and you have that green thumb magic, Basil. Your plants are probably the envy of the whole neighborhood!"
As they exchange these words, a sense of camaraderie and appreciation fills the air, highlighting the bond they share not just with each other but also with the living things around them. It sets a warm and nurturing tone as they part ways temporarily, each with their own tasks and responsibilities, yet connected by their care and support for one another.
Following, they passed by Angel's house, the distinct marks of creativity were evident, with his older sister adorned in paint stains, affectionately dubbed 'Artist' by the locals. Kel remarks, "Angel's sister is clearly an artist," observing the artistic ambiance of the surroundings, which catches Sunny's awe. Hero, with a wink, holds the bouquet of flowers destined for his mother in one hand and Hector's leash in the other.
Sunny, hugging Mewo close, listens as Hero suggests, "Hey, if you still enjoy drawing as much as playing the violin, maybe next time we can join you in visiting this place. Your drawings are amazing." The idea of combining both hobbies sparks a glimmer of excitement and anticipation among them, reinforcing their shared interests and the potential for future adventures together.
Basil nods in agreement, adding, "Exactly. Didn't Mikhael mention that he would welcome us to visit his family's bakery? It's intriguing how someone like him, who's usually so aloof and resistant to change, would extend such an invitation."
Sunny listens intently as Kel chimes in, holding the pizza box and the package containing Gino's 'Hero Sandwich,' "Definitely cool. Even though the hooligans had to leave earlier, we managed to bond despite our initial connection being our friendship with Aubrey." The idea of bridging gaps and finding common ground despite differences resonates among them, highlighting the evolving dynamics of their relationships.
Hero chuckles, adding, "I think what's bizarre, based on what you told me Kel, is right on the money. The 'eldest' of their group, Vance, isn't even the responsible one; it's either his younger sister Kim or—" He's interrupted by the group's exclamation as they notice something or someone.
It was Aubrey breathing and happily jogging towards them.
"Aubrey, you're here already?" Sunny exclaimed, surprised at how quickly she had arrived. "Did you just send Bun-Bun home and come running back?" Basil chimed in with a soft chuckle, adding, "Take it easy. How's your mom? Did you get a chance to see her or did you just pass by quickly?"
Aubrey took a moment to catch her breath as she slowed down her jog to walk alongside them. Approaching the residences of the Corazon and Miyamoto families, which were conveniently neighboring each other, she replied, "Oh, I just passed by quickly. Mom's doing fine. She's been busy with her latest art project, so I didn't want to disturb her too much."
As they neared their destination, Kel and Hero's homes came into view, with Aubrey pointing them out. "We're almost there. Are we stopping by your place, Sunny, or are you heading straight to Kel's and Hero's?" she asked, glancing at Sunny with a smile.
Sunny made a small smile that gave her small butterflies as he quietly pointed at his house first.
She nods to understand saying "Ohh right you need to bring Mewo home and check on Mari right?"
Sunny nods , as Basil sighs speaking "Guess he is already seen in a non-talkative mood wait…Aubrey your Mom? Tell me if I am wrong this is the first time we ever heard she does than just drinking liquor , sleeping or just getting some groceries for you two before lazing about…"
Aubrey chuckled softly at Basil's observation. "You're right, Basil. Mom's been quite active lately, especially with her art projects. It's been refreshing to see her so engaged and passionate about something other than the usual routine."
As they reached Sunny's house, Aubrey waved goodbye to him and Mewo. "Take care, Sunny. Say hi to Mari for me," she said with a warm smile before turning to the rest of the group.
smiled warmly at Sunny. "Since we're already here, shall we head inside the Corazon household? We can catch up with Kel and Hero before dinner."
Basil smiles , As Kel and Hero look at eachother with a nod.
As Hero winks "Guess Aubrey is just as athletic as Kel huh?"
For Aubrey huffs proudly "Why else can I carry a bat , carry Sunny that one time few days ago…handle all sorts of heavy lifting?"
Basil chuckled, appreciating the banter among friends. "It's true, Aubrey's got some serious strength hidden under that cool demeanor," he remarked with a grin.
Kel nodded in agreement. "Yeah, she's like our own powerhouse," he added, giving Aubrey a playful nudge.
Hero grinned. "And here I thought it was just me and Kel who had to keep up with workouts," he teased, referring to their recent exercise discussions with Sunny.
Aubrey smirked, enjoying the camaraderie. "Well, someone's got to make sure you all stay in shape," she quipped, earning a round of laughter from the group.
Meanwhile , as Sunny set aside Mewo to sleep at its personal area to sleep (like a mini cat bed) before he gasp feeling the eeriness of phobias kick in to manifest as he mutters "Mari…"
As he check in on the comatose Mari back at his bedroom shared with her , he examines her again of any signs of delayed of pulse or losing life yet relieved it seems okay yet one thing he notice that made him has tears of relief was. Besides her breathing is normal he felt he isn't hallucinating when he can sense her fingers weakly move despite still unresponsive with the rest.
Sunny's heart raced as he observed Mari's peaceful form on the bed, a mixture of fear and hope swirling within him. He carefully checked her vital signs, finding solace in the steady rhythm of her breathing. As he held her hand, he noticed a faint movement, almost imperceptible but enough to stir his emotions.
Tears welled up in Sunny's eyes as he whispered, "Hang in there, Mari." He couldn't shake off the anxiety that gripped him whenever he thought about Mari's condition. Despite the reassurance of her breathing and the slight movement in her fingers, the uncertainty weighed heavily on him.
With a deep breath, Sunny composed himself, wiping away the tears. He sat by Mari's side, determined to stay strong for her sake and his own. "I'll be here for you, always," he whispered, his voice filled with determination and love.
Then , he stretches a yawn "Hey , if you can hear me Mari…For the past 4 years…we're going to a better place okay? Mom and dad..me..everyone is waiting for you to get better soon and we can finally make sure it can happen…"
Sunny's voice quivered with emotion as he spoke to Mari, his words carrying a mixture of longing and determination. He leaned closer, as if willing his words to reach her unconscious mind.
"We've been through so much, Mari," he continued softly. "But I know you're strong. We'll get through this together. Just hold on a little longer, okay? There's so much waiting for you when you wake up."
He gently brushed a stray strand of hair from Mari's face, his eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and hope. "I promise, we'll find a way," he whispered, his voice filled with unwavering resolve.
Then he flinch when the pulse he glance at the equipment for her bedside show normal heart rating , as he lets go of her and spoke "I should get going to our friends' place….I also hope you don't mind me lately enjoying to draw as my new hobby like I mention to you or ramble back then when your like this…I think.."
As he gaze at the evening shade of the window "I am ready to try to make up for lost practice with my violin part okay?"
Sunny's gaze lingered on Mari for a moment longer, a silent promise in his eyes, before he straightened up with a determined expression. He nodded to himself, as if reaffirming his decision.
"Alright," he said softly, addressing the quiet room. "I'll be back soon, Mari. And I'll bring you something nice, I promise."
With a final glance at his sister, Sunny left the room, heading towards his violin and sketchpad with renewed determination.
As he opens it somewhere despite nervous with finally looking for his violin that was in the music room unused where Mari's piano was and his violin case at the corner of the room , he cautiously breathe as he makes sure he doesn't panic due to the traumatic memories the last time he held it since that 'day' (the time that caused Mari's coma that only he and Basil knew of the truth)
Sunny's hands trembled slightly as he reached for his violin case, memories of that fateful day flashing through his mind. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. Opening the case, he carefully lifted out the violin, its glossy surface catching the soft light filtering through the window.
He ran his fingers over the familiar strings, a mix of apprehension and determination in his eyes. "I can do this," he murmured to himself, a mantra to push past the lingering fears. With a resolve fueled by hope and determination, Sunny lifted the bow, ready to begin anew despite the haunting memories.
Then he coughs since it's a bit dusty since it's been so long since he touch it , before he felt his cellphone is buzzing again. Surprisingly , it's a call from Kel (Hmm…I assume Basil must've shared my contacts with all of them while I was not around…)
Few minutes earlier before he answered Kel's call.
It was when Aubrey , Basil , Kel and Hero came in and were caught by Kel and Hero's parents (the Corazons) uttering "Ohh mabuhay!!! (greetings in Filipino) , mga anak (my children in Filipino) guess some friends are joining us for dinner?"
They all nodded as Hero steps in first lending the bouquet of Flowers to his mom "Since , lately me and Kel been busy hanging out with Sunny that here— a way to show your son hasn't forgotten about you and papa…"
As they walked into Kel and Hero's house, the parents greeted them with hugs and smiles, showing how happy they were to have their sons' friends around.
Hero, being his sweet self, handed his mom a bouquet, which made her smile and thank him warmly. "Oh, Hero, these are beautiful. Thank you!"
Kel jumped in with a touch of emotion, saying, "Yeah, Mom, we got these to show how much we appreciate all you do, especially for Sunny and Mari."
Their parents nodded, clearly touched by the gesture. Kel's dad chimed in, "It's so nice to have you all here. You're like family to us."
Aubrey, with her assertive yet kind tone, added, "We're really happy to be here. Your family is amazing, Kel."
As they settled in, a familiar baby babble filled the living room, drawing their attention. Basil, in his soft-spoken manner, expressed awe, saying, "Oh, so little Sally Corazon, your youngest member, isn't asleep for the evening?"
Kel, with his usual optimism and enthusiasm, grinned and replied, "Nah, she's full of energy tonight! Probably wants to join in on the fun."
Hero, always mature and caring, added, "It's great to see her so lively. She's growing up fast."
Aubrey, observing the scene with a mix of amusement and fondness, remarked, "Looks like we have a little entertainer in the making."
Their conversation was interrupted by Sally's giggles and playful sounds, adding a cheerful ambiance to the gathering.
Hero carried little Sally around, enjoying her giggles and joyful energy, while Kel brought in a box of pizza from Gino's, sharing a laugh with his dad and thanking him for adding it to the dinner spread.
Aubrey, curious as ever, scooted closer to Kel and asked, "Hey, if the 'Hero Sandwich' isn't named after our Hero correctly, why is it called like that?" She raised an eyebrow playfully, wondering about the origins of the sandwich's name.
Kel beamed and replied, "Honestly, I've wondered about that too. But since it's my big bro's favorite order at Gino's, I don't mind getting it." He shrugged with a grin, clearly happy to share a meal loved by his brother.
Hero scooted closer with baby Sally giggling in his arms. "Thanks again, Kel, for helping out," he said appreciatively, acknowledging Kel's effort in getting the food for everyone.
The Corazons, Hero and Kel's parents, chimed in with warm smiles at the conversation happening among the friends.
Hero's mom, patting Kel's shoulder affectionately, added, "You're always so thoughtful, Kel. It's nice to see you taking care of everyone."
Kel's dad, nodding in agreement, said, "Indeed, it's a great choice for dinner. Thank you, Kel, and thanks to all of you for joining us tonight."
Their words reflected the supportive and appreciative atmosphere, making the gathering even more enjoyable for everyone.
Basil nodded, offering his camera. "Say, Ms. and Mr. Corazon, do you mind if I take a family picture for us right now?" he asked, his gentle demeanor showing his eagerness to capture the moment.
Ms. Corazon replied with a smile, "Of course, Basil. That's a wonderful idea."
She then looked around and inquired, "By the way, where is that quiet friend of the group? You know, 'Sunny'... Susumu Miyamoto?" Her curiosity about Sunny's absence was evident as she scanned the room.
Aubrey explained, "He's gone back to his family's house nearby. Just taking care of his pet and checking in on, um... Mari."
Mr. Corazon smiled at the mention of Mari and asked, "So, my sons, how's the bonding with that familiar face going?" His question indicated an interest in the friendships and dynamics within the group.
Hero chuckled warmly as he replied, "It's been great, Dad. Sunny's been opening up more, and we've all been hanging out a lot lately."
Kel nodded in agreement, adding, "Yeah, Dad, we're like a solid team now. Sunny's been awesome to have around."
Their mother, gently hushing Sally to sleep, smiled proudly at her sons and their friends. "I'm glad to hear that. You boys have such wonderful friends," she commented, her tone reflecting a mix of joy and contentment.
Basil smiled and nodded in agreement. "Okay, I'll take the photo later then," he said, understanding the timing.
Kel nudged him and whispered, "When's the right time to call him? Hero and I will be pretty busy helping our mom and dad set up the table." His curiosity about when to contact Sunny showed his eagerness to include him in the gathering.
Basil nodded, considering the timing. "Once the plates and table are all set, that would be a good moment. We can make sure Sunny feels welcome and give him some extra time to linger at his house for a while," he suggested, thinking about Sunny's comfort and inclusion in the gathering.
Aubrey chimed in with a smile, reflecting on the passage of time. "Time flies, doesn't it? It's already been 7 days since we started hanging out together again, and Sunny's readjusting to life with us after being a shut-in for 4 years," she remarked, acknowledging the changes and progress in their friendship dynamic.
Mr. Corazon addressed everyone, requesting their assistance in setting the tables. "Okay, everybody, could you take your time to help set the tables, please?" he asked. Then, he turned to Kel and Hero, assigning them a task. "Kel and Hero, could you two help your mother with the home-cooked meals for dinner? We're having Spanish and Filipino dishes tonight," he specified, indicating the delicious spread they were about to enjoy.
Hero smiled at his father's request and replied, "Of course, Papa. You can rely on me and Kel—" He playfully ruffled Kel's hair, earning a gentle swat from Kel to fix his own hairstyle, which included a ponytail and side braids.
Kel groaned good-naturedly, teasing Hero, "Hero, why do you always do that? Just don't mess with my hair, okay? I'm an older brother too, you know!" He gestured to their family dynamics, with him being the middle child between their baby sister Sally and their eldest sibling, Hero.
Basil managed to sneakily capture the brotherly moment on camera, while Aubrey nudged him with a smile. "Come on, let's help this family make their job easier," she encouraged, eager to assist in preparing for dinner.
They heard footsteps approaching from the kitchen, and it was Ms. Corazon, looking pleased. "Now that the little precious one is well-rested," she said, referring to Sally, "I can have my sons help their mother prepare dinner!" Her happiness was palpable as they all pitched in to make the evening special.
As time passed, everyone pitched in to help set the table and prepare dinner. Basil and Aubrey took charge of setting up the table, making sure everything looked perfect. Meanwhile, Hero and Kel worked alongside their parents, especially their mother, in the kitchen to prepare the meal, showcasing the progress they've made in working together as a team.
As they all stepped back to admire their work, smiles of awe and satisfaction spread across their faces. They marveled at how well everything had come together, from the beautifully set table to the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen. It was a moment of pride and accomplishment for the group, highlighting their strong bond and ability to work together harmoniously.
Kel glanced at Hero, a satisfied smile on his face as they admired the spread they had prepared together. They had set aside the takeout from Gino's Pizza, which included their favorite pizzas from Faraway Plaza, along with the specially ordered 'Hero Sandwich' that Hero loved. The combination of homemade dishes and their favorite takeout added to the warmth and joy of the evening, making it a memorable gathering for everyone involved.
Kel whispered to Basil, seeking his assistance. "Could you cover for me as I prepare to call Sunny now?" he asked, indicating his intention to reach out to their friend who was currently absent from the gathering.