A Chance Encounter

**Page 14**

The following day, as the sun began its ascent, Josh found himself at the terminal of a jeepney, waiting for his ride. He scanned the crowd, a routine part of his morning ritual. But today was different. Today, his eyes landed on a familiar face - Roxanne, standing amidst the bustling commuters.

With a determined stride, Josh approached her, a warm smile on his face.

**Josh Cruz:** *(cheerful)* Roxanne! Fancy meeting you here again. Where are you off to today?

Roxanne turned to Josh, her eyes lighting up with recognition.

**Roxanne Ramirez:** *(smiling)* Hi, Josh! As always, I'm headed to work.

Josh couldn't help but seize the opportunity.

**Josh Cruz:** *(friendly)* Well, if you don't mind a little company, how about I give you a lift to work today?

Roxanne considered the offer, appreciating the gesture.

**Roxanne Ramirez:** *(grateful)* That would be great, Josh. Thanks!

As they embarked on their journey towards Roxanne's workplace at SM Dasmariñas, conversation flowed easily between them.

**Josh Cruz:** *(curious)* By the way, Roxanne, do you know those guys back there?

Josh subtly gestured towards a group of individuals who had caught his attention. Among them, he spotted the unmistakable tattoos and attire of the Diablo gang.

**Roxanne Ramirez:** *(concerned)* Oh, them? Yeah, I've seen them around, but I don't really know them. Why?

Josh's grip on the handlebars tightened, and he flashed a reassuring smile.

**Josh Cruz:** *(casual)* No reason, just thought I recognized them, that's all.

However, Josh knew that he couldn't risk Roxanne's safety, especially with the Diablo gang nearby. He decided to reroute their journey to avoid any potential confrontations.

**Roxanne Ramirez:** *(curious)* Josh, why are we going a different way?

Josh chuckled, attempting to ease any concerns.

**Josh Cruz:** *(light-hearted)* Oh, just taking a scenic route today, Roxanne. Sometimes, it's nice to change things up, right?

Roxanne nodded, not pressing further. She trusted Josh's judgment, even if she couldn't quite decipher his true intentions.

As they continued their detour, Josh couldn't help but wonder about the curious blend of romance and danger that seemed to intertwine in his life. Roxanne, on the other hand, was blissfully unaware of the dangerous encounters that seemed to follow her daily commute. Their journey together had certainly taken an unexpected turn, but they were both learning that sometimes, life's detours could lead to unexpected adventures and a deeper connection between two people.