The moment of boredom needs a refreshing moon to break the ice, the moon shines especially bright and clear, from the heart of the sky.

Here’s a fiction story – My Buttercup: An Enduring Fantasy, reflecting on my first heart throb.

Thinking of you as I explore the road in the cool air, singing my song.

At that time, during what would turn out to be the final year of my college journey, I found myself reflecting on the culmination of several years of academic growth, personal challenges, and transformative experiences. This period marked a vital chapter in my life, as I prepared to transition from the structured environment of college education to the uncertainties and opportunities that lay ahead in the wider road.

I stayed most often in the library with friends, or in “tambayan” beside the canteen area. This place  has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among students. This simple place held a wealth of special memories for me. It carried within echoes of cherished moments, personal milestones, and heartfelt connections that made valuable in my eyes.

Back then, we spent time together with young Coco and Mongo. Laying one’s eyes on the other side of the table, Philip , sucking hard on a straw inserted into a thin water-melon fruit shake, rejoined us.

By the time Philip got to be with us on the same table, now Sunshine, a strikingly beautiful young lass, entered the shop all by herself, her presence catching the attention of everyone nearby. With an air of quiet confidence, she browsed the selection before picking out a small snack, her graceful demeanor leaving a lasting impression. She was the epitome of every boy’s dream on campus-blessed with both stunning beauty and exceptional intellect. Her charm and brilliance made her the subject of admiration and fascination, turning her into an idol many aspired to know or emulate. For most guys, she wasn’t just a fleeting crush but an enduring fantasy, embodying the perfect combination of grace, wit, and allure that seemed almost too good to be true. Her presence alone could light up a room, leaving a trail of awe and admiration wherever she went. She has a particular fondness for juicy, sweet mangoes and a delicious cheesy pizza pie. These are her go-treats that bring her joy and brighten her day.

“I’m proud to say she’s my buttercup. I’m in love… I’m all shook up and stuck on her. Her face is truly captivating, radiating a natural beauty that draws my attention effortlessly. It carries a unique charm, with features that seem perfectly harmonized, exuding grace and elegance. There’s a warmth and depth in her expression that makes her beauty not only striking but also unforgettable”, young Coco expressed his feelings and emotions.

Philip, reluctantly parting his lips from his straw, said, “Can you imagine being proud to say that somebody was your buttercup?”

Young Coco thought about it.

“Imagining”, said Philip, “you’re introducing her to us, and you go, ‘This here is MY BUTTERCUP! Hey, did you pee your pants?”

“Oh my goodness” said Coco, looking down at his denim pant, wet. “Here comes Sunshine “, said Philip.

“Oh my”, said Coco. He easily untucked his white T-shirt and tried to cover it down the wet spot of the pants.

“Hi,” said Sunshine staring her eyes to young Coco.

“Hello,” said Coco, twisting his lower body sideways, trying to aim his wet spot away from her.

“Is that a squirt gun in your pocket?,” asked Sunshine , “or are you just glad to see me?”

“Yeah, I’m glad and excited to see you today,” young Coco said.

The allotted time had come to an end, and it was time for everyone to transition to the next scheduled class or subject. With the clock signaling the close of the current session, we all gathered our belongings and prepared to move on to continue with the day’s academic schedule.

I said, “Got up boys, see yah later.” Coco rushed away with us.

In a rush, I caught a glimpse of young Coco playfully winking at Sunshine, a mischievous smile lighting up her face. Sunshine couldn’t help but laugh in response, her laughter ringing out like a melody. With a cheerful wave, she called out, “See you later Coco! Stick to me like glue!” Her words hung in the air, full of warmth and the promise of their next encounter.🏛️