1. The drive from Ortigas to UP Diliman is an amazing half hour, thanks to the holidays. I wistfully wish that travelling in the city is always this fast, and my Ian readily agrees.
2. He orders Rodic’s famous Tapsilog for take-out dinner. It comes in a handy box of piping hot rice mixed with sweet-salty bits of beef, topped with a fried egg. My Ian lets me sneak bites of his food in exchange for half my portion of his mom’s macaroni salad. He clearly expects me to learn how to make it, and I’m not sure whether to be inspired or intimidated.
3. We stroll from the Shopping Center to the Amphitheater, my hand in his and our heads in the clouds. Impromptu plans, the trees, the cold evening air, a semi-deserted street, no classes, the sound of the crickets, a delicious dinner and dreams of tomorrow. Best holiday date ever.

