Persistent Desire

[Johan's POV]

The size of Mall of Asia was no joke. It wouldn't compare to the malls he frequented in Olongapo City. Aside from its countless amenities, it had a seaside theme park beside the Manila Bay, where people gathered for leisure and dates.

Date. It felt like they were on a date.

His heart continued to slam against his ribcage, pumping exhilarated blood to his tingling body tissues. Johan wondered if the fruit shake he was slurping had illegal drugs in it because his heart just won't fucking stop.

"Doesn't this remind you of the carnival at our village?" Russell asked, bumping his knuckles to Johan's clammy hand.

"Yeah. But it's bigger, brighter, and more urbanized. Look at how many people are gathered in this place."

"The carnival you wanted to see so bad you'll sneak out of your window when you could have used the fucking door like a normal person."

"Hey!"