Narrator:
After the warm and heart-fluttering anniversary event of the Jakefanatics, the night wasn't quite over for some members of the fandom. Most had already gone home, but in a reserved function room at the same venue, Tita Carol stayed behind with the admins for a short convo and thanksgiving.
In the middle of the simple setup—with Tita Carol and the Admins—Aya sat quietly, listening to every story.
Tita Carol:
"Wow, Rose. The event was amazing. I didn't expect the support for Jake to be this overwhelming. Even if he's not here, I can really feel like he's with us."
(she smiles warmly at the admins)
Admin Rose:
"Oh, Tita, we're the ones who should be thankful. If not for you, there would be no Jake to inspire us all."
Narrator:
They exchanged happy glances, their connection clearly genuine. Meanwhile, Janine—restless since earlier—quickly joined the conversation.
Janine (Co-admin):
"Oh, definitely, Tita! Me, since the very beginning, I've been here. I'm always present for every update about Jake. Even when I'm busy with school, I always put the fandom first… especially when it's about Jake."
Her smile was alluring, and she subtly glanced at Aya, as if sending a message.
Narrator:
Aya noticed the look—it carried a mix of arrogance and intimidation. It wasn't direct, but she felt it.
Lyca:
(breaking the tension)
"Janine's right, Tita. She's always present. But of course, all of us are solid for Jake. We're always game to make you happy and support him."
Tita Carol:
(smiling, nodding to Lyca)
"Thank you, dear. I know it's not easy to squeeze this into your personal lives. But I'm so glad that there are people like you who are there for him."
Narrator:
While the conversation carried on, Aya sat at the side, quietly listening. She couldn't help but notice how Janine always tried to be in the spotlight—especially when Aunt Carol was watching. With every joke, every praise, came a glance at Aya.
Janine:
"You know, Tita, if I ever had the chance, I'd love to be the most active in all of Jake's fan projects. Not just online support, but really showing how much we love him."
Another look at Aya, as if saying:
"Can you do that?"
Narrator (Aya's POV):
"I bit my lip. I didn't know whether to feel awkward or just laugh at Janine's subtle jabs. But one thing was certain… I guess I had a rival here."
Narrator:
As the chat deepened, the atmosphere in the small function room grew warmer. Aunt Carol seemed happier, surrounded by people who truly admired her son.
But the subtle tension between Janine and Aya never faded.
Tita Carol:
"You know, I'm really happy. Even though Jake is busy with church and music, he always tells me he feels the love of his fans. He knows how dedicated you all are."
Admin Rose:
"That's why we put so much effort into making this event successful, Tita. Because we want to show him that his support for us is worth it."
Janine (Co-admin):
"Yes, Tita Carol! Honestly, when it comes to Jake, I'd do everything. Even with my thesis, I force myself to stay updated. That's probably why he knows me, at least a little."
She let out a smug laugh and glanced at Aya again.
Narrator:
Aya felt a sharp sting in her chest at those words. She couldn't help but wonder if what Janine was saying was true—or just for show.
Lyca:
(chuckling, cutting in)
"Oh come on, Janine, we all want Jake to notice us. But it's not about who puts in more effort, right? As long as you're genuine, he'll feel it."
Aya (softly):
"That's true… sometimes, even simple support is enough, as long as it comes from the heart."
Narrator:
Tita Carol looked at Aya and smiled, clearly touched.
Tita Carol:
"You're absolutely right, Aya. It's not measured by how much you do. What matters is sincerity. And I can feel that you're sincere."
She gently touched Aya's shoulder.
Narrator:
Janine's face twitched, clearly unhappy with the attention Tita Carol had given Aya.
Janine:
(forced smile)
"Of course, Tita… but still, consistency is important too, right? So our idol won't lose trust."
Lyca:
(laughing softly, sending a private chat to Aya)
(PM: "Sis, don't be intimidated. That's just how Janine is. But don't worry, I saw it in Tita Carol's eyes—she likes you.")
Aya (PM to Lyca):
("Haha thanks, Ate. It's just a little awkward. But I promise, I can handle this.")
Narrator (Aya's POV):
"I could really feel the heat on my cheeks. Is this how it feels to be this giddy just because Tita Carol gave me attention? But one thing I knew… the unspoken competition had already begun."
Narrator:
The night grew late. The surroundings grew quiet, except for the faint sounds of the staff tidying up the venue. That's when the conversation turned more personal.
Tita Carol:
"Rose, Janine, Lyca… I just want to thank you again. Your effort for this event was incredible, and Jake is so blessed to have your support."
Admin Rose:
"Thank you too, Tita Actually… we already have another plan coming up."
She glanced at Janine and Lyca, as if hinting at something.
Janine (Co-admin):
"Oh yes! Tita Carol we're so excited about it. After all, this month is really special…"
(she sneaks a glance at Aya, as if saying: "Let's see if you can keep up.")
Lyca:
"That's right. Because in just a few days… it's your birthday, Tita Carol."
(she smiles genuinely, obviously excited)
Tita Carol:
"Oh yes, of course you're all invited, guys! I hope no one will be absent."
Narrator:
Aya gasped softly. She hadn't realized Aunt Carol's birthday was that close. She quickly spoke up.
Aya:
"Really? Happy birthday in advance, Tita."
(she said shyly but sincerely)
Tita Carol (smiling at Aya):
"Thank you, Aya, that's so sweet of you."
Admin Rose:
"Our plan, is for the fandom to go full force again for your birthday celebration in Leyte. It'll be more intimate and special—just for you."
Janine:
"Of course, we want that day to be unforgettable. There'll be games, dinner… and maybe some special greetings too."
(she smirked playfully, glancing at Aya again)
Narrator (Aya's POV):
"Why does Janine always look at me whenever it's about Jake or Tita Carol? My chest feels tight with nerves and pressure. But I can't back down—not to her, not to anyone. I'm here because I'm a fan. Just be a genuine fan, Aya!"
Lyca:
"Actually Tita, we have a surprise. But we can't reveal it just yet. Just know that you'll love it."
Tita Carol (smiling, a little curious):
"Oh my, sounds like you're hiding something fun.
But you know, I'm happy. Even though Jake is far, I can feel he's never alone—because you're all here for him."
Narrator:
Behind all the smiles and plans, Aya could feel the strange tension between her and Janine. And as they discussed the birthday celebration, she realized this wasn't just about being in a fandom.
It felt like a game—mixed with excitement, competition, and secrets.
Admin Rose:
"So… are we all in? Let's start planning Tita Carol's birthday!."
Everyone:
"Game!"
Narrator:
And with that simple word, a new chapter began—happier, more dramatic, and filled with even more thrills.
After their intimate planning session with Tita Carol, an announcement popped in the Jakefanatics' group chat. Phones buzzed almost simultaneously.
Admin Rose (GC Message):
📌 "Hello fam! Exciting update: We'll be having another big event—Tita Carol's birthday celebration! But before the big day, we'll have a short staycation in Leyte! 🏝️ Two nights in a beachside hotel! ✨ Who's ready?!"
Narrator:
The whole GC exploded with excitement—heart emojis, claps, fireworks everywhere.
Mica:
"OMGGG!! Leyte!! Finally!! That's Jake's hometown, right??" 😍
Krystel:
"I'm already squealing, sis! I bet even the sea breeze there will smell like Jake." 🤣
Anna:
"Is everyone confirmed? Do we already have room assignments, Mommy?"
Admin Rose:
"Yes, Anna! Rooms are booked. In one room: me, Janine, Lyca, and Aya. Second room: Anna, Mica, Krystel, and Maureen."
Maureen:
"Woohoo! Legit bonding! But of course… priority is still Tita Carol's celebration."
Janine:
"Of course. But make sure, girls, that everyone comes. We don't want a surprise last-minute no-show, right?" 😉
(her eyes emoji darted to Aya)
Aya's mind:
"Obviously, you mean me, Janine. But of course I'm coming. Who else, if not me? Haha."
---
Scene Shift: First Night in Alang Alang beach resort in Leyte – Seaside
Narrator:
The first night in Leyte. While the others were busy inside the hotel, Aya decided to step out for some fresh air. She walked along the beach and sat on a wooden bench.
The place was quiet, except for the waves kissing the shore.
Aya (monologue):
"Why does it feel like I'm always Janine's target? I'm not even her enemy… but it's like she wants me to be her rival. Ugh, Aya… relax. You're not doing anything wrong."
She sighed, scrolling through her phone.
Narrator:
Suddenly, a voice came from behind.
Jayvee:
"If I were you, I wouldn't let someone else ruin your mood."
Narrator:
Aya jumped, turning quickly. There stood a tall, slightly tan guy in a plain white shirt. With a mischievous smile and deep eyes—it was Jayvee, Jake's cousin who looked strikingly like him.
Aya:
"What?! Excuse me? I don't even know you."
(she stood defensively)
Jayvee (grinning):
"Relax. You look scared already. I'm not gonna bite. It's just my first time seeing a new face here."
Aya (annoyed):
"Well, congrats. But I'm not in the mood to talk in stranger, So… excuse me."
She turned and walked back to the hotel, leaving Jayvee smirking at her.
(Aya's POV):
"Seriously?! Just when I wanted peace and quiet, a random stranger showed up. So annoying. And the way he teased… ugh, the nerve."
Next Day – Tita Carol's Birthday Celebration
Narrator:
Excitement filled the air as everyone prepared for the big day. Some relatives and nearby Jakefanatics had arrived, while the admin core group set up the venue. The décor was simple yet elegant, with a long table of food and a projector for special greetings.
Aya sat with her friends when she overheard Lyca whispering to Maureen.
Lyca (whispering to Aya):
"Girls, don't freak out… but Tita Carol's introducing someone today."
Maureen & Aya (confused):
"Huh? Who?"
Narrator:
At that moment, while Tita Carol entertained her relatives, a young man approached. Aya's jaw nearly dropped.
Aunt Carol:
"Oh, dear, you're here already! Come, let me introduce you to the Jakefanatics."
Jayvee (smiling brightly):
"Sure, Tita!"
Aunt Carol (smiling proudly):
"Everyone, this is Jayvee—Jake's first cousin."
Narrator:
Aya froze. It was the stranger from last night—the one who gave unsolicited advice.
Jayvee (grinning, extending a hand toward Aya):
"So… we meet again."
Aya (blushing slightly, forcing calm):
"Y-You're the guy from yesterday…"
(she didn't take his hand, defensive)
"Small world."
Janine (quick to shake his hand):
"Hi! I'm Janine, Co-Admin of JakeFanatics."
Jayvee smiled but kept his gaze on Aya. He had Jake's charming smile, but Aya knew her heart was still with Jake.
Krystel (fangirling):
"OMG Aya! Jake's cousin is so cute—like a mini version of him!"
Maureen (grinning):
"Looks like you two already have chemistry hahaha."
Narrator (Aya's POV):
"Oh no. This can't be happening. He's Jake's cousin?! And here I thought last night was just some random encounter. Slowly, I'm being pulled into Jake's personal world… something I never expected as a fan."
Narrator @ Party:
The atmosphere was both warm and elegant. Beige and gold decorations glittered under fairy lights. Excitement buzzed as the program began.
The Jakefanatics core team sat in front, while Tita Carol, with her sister Tita Sandy, mingled with guests.
Admin Rose (on mic):
"Good evening, everyone! 🎉 First of all, we want to thank Tita Carol for inviting Jakefanatics and entrusting us with organizing her birthday event tonight. On behalf of Jakefanatics: Happy birthday, Tita Carol!"
Narrator:
Applause filled the hall. Aya, sitting between Lyca and Maureen, felt nervous but excited.
Janine (whispering at Aya, with a smug smile):
"Let's see how far you can last tonight."
Aya (forcing a smile, holding back irritation):
"I'm just happy for Tita Carol. That's all."
Narrator:
The games began—Guess Jake's Song Lyrics, Who Knows Jake Best?, and Photo Trivia. The hall was full of laughter and squeals.
Mica:
"Wow, I thought Guess the Song would be easy, but Krystel was so fast!"
Krystel (raising her hand high):
"Fan since day one, baby!" 😂
Anna:
"Wait, guys, Admin Rose hinted earlier—there might be a big surprise."
Narrator:
Then came the highlight. Some lights dimmed, and the projector screen lit up.
Jake (on recorder video, smiling with a guitar):
"Hi, Jakefanatics fam and all my relatives! 💙 Thank you for celebrating my mom's birthday with her tonight. I may be far, but my heart is with you all!"
Narrator:
The hall erupted in cheers. Aya could barely contain her giddiness hearing Jake's voice.
Lyca (hosting, squealing into mic):
"AYIEEEEE! You're so handsome, Jake!"
Maureen (high-fiving Aya):
"Sis, look! That smile looks like—he's looking at you!"
Narrator:
Then a Zoom notification popped up. Moments later, Jake appeared live from Seattle.
Jake (smiling, waving):
"Hi, Mom! Happy Birthday!"
Tita Carol (teary-eyed, clutching her chest):
"Son! I didn't expect this. I thought you were busy. Thank you, Jake. You made me so happy tonight."
Jake:
"I couldn't miss this, Mom. And… I had a little help."
Narrator:
Jake's siblings—Ate Liza, Ate Rochelle, Kuya Francis, Kuya Jimboy, and Kuya Rico—walked onto the stage with a cake and bouquet.
Ate Rochelle:
"Happy birthday to our dearest mama!"
Ate Liza:
"Happy birthday, Ma! We know you miss Jake, so we came too."
Jake (smiling proudly from the screen):
"See, Mom? My sisters are here with you tonight. We love you Ma!"
Narrator:
Tears flowed as Tita Carol hugged her children. The entire hall was emotional—no one expected her busy daughters from Seattle would fly in.
Admin Rose (smiling on mic):
"Family truly is love. Thank you, Jake, for giving us this precious moment."
Narrator:
Meanwhile, the admins couldn't hide their giddiness when they noticed Aya in the crowd.
Lyca (teasing on mic):
"Oooh Jake, guess what? Your favorite fan is here again."
(she winked at Aya)
Jake (blushing, smiling shyly):
"Oh… Aya's there? Hi, Aya!"
(he waved at the camera)
Narrator:
The hall erupted in squeals.
Mica (shouting):
"Ayieeee! He said hi again Aya!"
Aya (face red, softly but audible):
"Hi Jake…"
(she lifted her glass to hide her smile)
Janine (quickly chiming in, smiling at Tita Carol):
"Of course, I'm here too, Jake! You know I'm always present—for you and for the fandom."
Narrator:
Jake gave her a polite smile, but Admin Rose quickly cut in.
Admin Rose (laughing):
"Hahaha, Janine, don't worry. We all know how loyal you are. The Co-Admin of Jakefanatics!"
Jake (smiling back to the camera):
"Thank you, everyone. I'm really blessed to have such a supportive fandom."
Narrator:
The crowd laughed and cheered again. Aya wanted to melt from embarrassment, but deep inside, she thought:
"This must be the most magical night of my fan journey."
Author's Note:
You thought the kilig and drama ended at Tita Carol's birthday? Think again. 😉
Because in the next chapter, two things will shake Jakefanatics
:
First, a new face joins the fandom—but wait… is he really just a fan? Or is there a deeper reason he came? 🤔
Second, a post from Jake will leave some hearts racing… and some in tears.
As some hearts break, others will begin to hold on.
But who will fate choose?
And… will Aya be ready when Jake's "real world" slowly enters their fandom's world?
To be continued…
Brace yourselves.
Chapter 7: New Faces and Old Flames