PHILIPPINES - 1:38 PM

yet another day of trying to survive the scorching summer heat in the philippines, you were waiting at the side walk for a jeepney.

“putangina, it’s so hot.” you uttered. your sweat was dripping down your cheeks, how bothersome.

finally, you spotted a jeepney and decided to hop in. you sat next to the nearest empty seat.

“bayad po.” left your mouth as you handed your fare. a tall, fair skinned man who looked like a foreigner took the coins from your hand.

“bayad daw.” he said as he passed the coin to the driver. that subtle touch between your hands made your heart flutter.

oh fuck, new commute crush?! wait ... i’m dripping in sweat right now. this isn’t the best time! you thought to yourself.

the foreign man shifted his hand fan to your side, making sure you get some air too. you noticed the considerate gesture. he did not seem to think anything of it, he looked as if it was normal to do. when in fact, people in the jeepney rarely do that. so there you were, puzzled and fluttered in your seat.