#part 31

My collection (Bionicle collection part 31)

The afternoon sunlight spilled gently into the garden — the same one that once felt lonely, now brimming with life. The scent of fresh soil and new blooms lingered in the air as Shine did a final check on the plants, wiping her hands with her towel and smiling to herself.

Clara stepped out from the sliding doors, holding a tray with tea and snacks. “You’ve worked hard, hija,” she said warmly. “I can’t thank you enough for helping us bring this garden back to life.”

Shine smiled shyly. “It’s all the Lord’s grace po, Tita. I’m really grateful for this opportunity.”

Nathan followed shortly after, his hands tucked into his pockets. He glanced around quietly, taking in the final look of the place. Every corner reminded him of the days they’d spent here — laughter, quiet talks, even Bimo’s antics.

“Looks different,” he said softly, his tone almost reflective.

“Good different?” Shine teased, her eyes bright.

He nodded, a small grin forming. “Yeah. Like it finally feels alive again.”

There was a pause. That kind of silence that wasn’t empty — just full of things neither of them knew how to say.

Clara broke it gently. “I’ll miss hearing your laughter around here, Shine. You’ve brought light into this house.”

Shine’s lips curved into a soft smile. “Thank You po, Tita. I’ll miss this garden too... and everyone here.”

Nathan’s gaze lingered a little too long. He didn’t know why, but something in his chest tightened. The thought of the garden without her suddenly felt—quiet again.

He cleared his throat. “So... after today, you’ll be back with your commissions?”

“Mm-hmm,” she nodded. “Back sa bahay magwork.” she chuckled

“Oh.” His reply was short, almost hesitant. He wanted to say more — something like, maybe you could visit, or you could drop by sometimes — but the words stayed trapped in his mind.

Shine picked up her basket, ready to leave. “Thank you again, both of you. For the kindness, for letting me be part of this.”

Clara reached out and gave her a light hug. “You’re always welcome here, anak.”

Shine smiled, touched. Then she turned toward Nathan. “And thank you,” she said softly.

He blinked. “For what?”

“For trusting me with this place.”

That one sentence made him look away, his lips pressing into a faint smile. “You did a good job,” he managed to say. “More than good.”

Shine chuckled lightly. “Praise God.”

She started toward the stairs, but before she could fully turn, she stopped and looked back. “Ah, by the way…”

Nathan raised a brow. “Hm?”

“If ever you and Tita Clara are free this Sunday, maybe you can join us for worship service,” she said with that same bright, genuine tone. “It’s just nearby, and… well, it would be nice to see you both again — not for work this time.”

Clara smiled instantly. “Oh, that sounds lovely! I’d love to.”

Nathan, caught off guard, just blinked. “Uh… we’ll see,” he said, trying not to sound too eager.

Shine grinned. “No pressure. Just thought I’d invite.”

She waved one last time before heading downstairs. Nathan and Clara stood by the balcony, watching her disappear through the gate below.

Clara glanced at her son — the way he lingered there even after Shine was gone. “You’ll miss her, won’t you?”

Nathan’s eyes remained on the horizon. “I don’t know,” he murmured, though the small tug in his chest said otherwise. “Maybe.”

Clara smiled knowingly but said nothing.

When Nathan finally turned away, the garden behind him glowed with soft, golden light. It felt different now — not just because of the flowers, but because someone had left a piece of kindness there.

i am going to miss her.

LARSON: My hallway! In the Larson estate. Uncle lay dead in one of these rooms. Within the –

ARTHUR: Yeah, I’m over this, Larson. Myself… whatever fucking voice makes sense. I’ve beat myself up enough in this dream. Relived enough bad memories for the night. I’m going to leave.