Stage Whisper

“I’m sorry, got caught up in traffic,” Merwin Medina aka Win said as he pushed open the glass door of the high-end café’s private room. He arrived in the middle of two middle-aged men’s conversation. The older of the two smiled amiably as he indicated the empty seat behind the other man.

“No problem Mr. Medina, we haven’t been here long. Have you met Mr. Buencamino yet?” Toffer Galvez nodded towards the other man as Win took his seat beside him.

“Who wouldn’t know THE Dwight Buencamino? But we haven’t worked together yet and I am so excited to finally meet him in the flesh,” Win said in a genuinely excited tone as he held his hand out to the other man who just smiled a little and took the offered hand in a firm handshake.

“Same here, I have been following some of your recent performances and I must say that impressive would be an understatement, Mister Merwin Medina,” the other man said in a low voice that sounded pleasant to the ears. Win unconsciously winced at the mention of his full name.

“Just call me Win, I really hate that name if I may be upfront here,” Win said honestly and Dwight chuckled good-naturedly before speaking in that low tone of his.

“Of course, if that’s what you prefer, Win. Feel free to call me Dwight, no honorifics please,” Dwight said before smirking handsomely. The door opened and the café’s waiter came in carrying a tray with three cups of steaming coffee on it plus sachets of sugar and creamer on a saucer. The waiter immediately left after placing the contents of the tray on the coffee table.

“Okay, Dwight!” Win agreed enthusiastically before looking back at Toffer with one of his brows arched questioningly. The other man cleared his throat before picking up a notebook from the coffee table and thumbing through it. Dwight quietly picked up a cup and brought it near his lips, blowing on the steaming liquid softly with his eyes fixed intently on Toffer.

“So, since you two seem to be comfortable with each other, let me tell you about this production. It is another original screenplay and it won the recently concluded Barranca Awards so we thought of mounting a production for it and the two of you were the first two names that came to mind for the lead actors,” Toffer said while scanning the pages of the notebook he was holding up while Dwight watched the two over the rim of the coffee cup he was holding daintily in one hand as he kept on blowing at the surface of the dark liquid.

“Is this the somewhat non-conventional storylines that new writers are so fond of coming up with?” Win said as he started stirring the still-steaming coffee in front of him after adding a sachet of creamer and sugar, turning the liquid into a swirl of white on black before finally turning a shade of mocha.

“You may say that. It’s quite an old concept but with a modern twist,” Toffer said as he put down his notebook and picked up a cup with both hands. Dwight was still eyeing him intently and it seemed to make the casting director fidgety.

“You told us that we are the lead actors, what would be our relationship in the story?” Win asked candidly as he looked at Dwight before looking back at Toffer.

“Well, you see—“, Toffer began but Dwight cut him off midway.

“Spill it, Mr. Galvez. So that Win can decide whether he is in or out,” Dwight said cryptically before putting down his half-filled cup and leaning back before crossing his arm over his chest.

“Why would I decline a chance to work with a renowned actor like Dwight? Is the role too controversial? I hope this is not a life story of a politician?” Win said with an awkward smile as he kept on stirring his coffee. He can sense the tension between Toffer and Dwight and it is beginning to unnerve him.

“I wouldn’t accept this project if it was, but it might make you uncomfortable in some parts,” Dwight said coolly as he leaned closer and picked up his cup again.

“Do I need to show my body?” Win said in an unapologetic tone and Toffer flinched at the direct question.

“Uhm, in a sense, yes. Are you okay with that?” Toffer asked cautiously while Dwight quietly sipped on his coffee.

“Hey, I do that a lot so it would be a no-brainer for me. I have done love scenes on-stage too so showing some skin isn’t something that would deter me from accepting this role,” Win said confidently before taking a sip from his now tepid coffee.

“So if you are not averse to such scenes, then I think we wouldn’t have a problem—“ Toffer began awkwardly but Dwight’s cold voice cut him off again.

“Don’t trick him into agreeing when he doesn’t know the whole picture yet, Toffer!” Dwight said in a rather irritated manner at the casting director’s ambiguity.

“Okay, let me just ask my questions if that is okay with you?” Win said with a smile to help move the subject forward. Toffer cleared his throat audibly before croaking out a reply.

“Sure, fire away, Win,” Toffer stammered before taking a sip from his coffee and Dwight just kept on looking intently while holding his coffee cup in both his hands.

“Do I have to do frontal nudity?” Win asked cautiously and Toffer almost spat out the coffee he was drinking while Dwight covered his mouth with his knuckles to hide his amusement.

“No! This is a stage play and not a live show,” Toffer blurted out aghast.

“Good, will I have a love scene?” Win asked nonchalantly as if he didn’t just ask a sensitive question.

“Yes, this is a romance story so there would be intimate scenes,” Toffer said as the door opened and the waiter arrived with a tray laden with glasses, a pitcher of sparkling water, and three saucers with a slice of blueberry cheesecake on each one. The three men waited until the waiter has placed all of the contents of the tray on the coffee table and left before resuming the conversation.

“Do I need to sing?” Win asked with rising curiosity. Why can’t he just tell me what my role will be? Is Dwight involved in this? Doesn’t he want to work with me? Win thought to himself as he waited for the casting director’s reply.

“Yes, but not too much. Most of the time you will be silent and emotionless,” Toffer said as he picked up the pitcher and started pouring cold sparkling water into the three glasses.

“Wow! I love stone-faced characters!” Win exclaimed cheerfully and Dwight finally sat up straight in annoyance, looking at Win intensely before speaking in an annoyed voice.

“You are technically an inanimate character! For Christ’s sake, Toffer! Why not tell him everything already? The poor guy needs to know what he is up against,” Dwight said empathically before picking up a fork to jab it into the cheesecake in front of him.

“Excuse me? Do you think I am not fit for the role, Mister Dwight?” Win said in an offended tone as Toffer sheepishly pushed a glass of sparkling water to Dwight and Win using both of his hands.

“I told you, no honorifics,” Dwight scoffed passively before placing the ends of a pastry-laden fork inside his mouth and chewing slowly with his mouth closed.

“You are still my senior so I have to respect you,” Win sighed exasperatedly. He was getting tired of all these. He can’t understand why the two men seem to be walking on eggshells around him.

“In this project, you have to throw all those respect out of the window during the performance,” Dwight added enigmatically before taking a swig from the glass of water that Toffer pushed towards him earlier.

“So, can you just tell me the plot? I’m sure I can do this. If you handpicked me for this role, I know I can deliver,” Win said in an almost pleading tone, he felt like he was being measured right then and there and he didn’t like the feeling that they are having second thoughts about casting him. Toffer sighed harshly before placing the saucer with the half-eaten pastry in it down on the table.

“Fine! A master sculptor fell in love with his creation, a life-like wooden sculpture of a person that has been haunting their dreams for years. The story commences when they discover that their creation comes to life whenever the moon shines upon it but returns to being inanimate when morning comes. They fall in love and engage in intimacy despite knowing that everything will be over the moment the sun rises from the horizon. Of course, there would be other conflicts within the story and other side characters involved but basically, that is the premise of the story. It’s like a modern Machete with a twist,” Toffer prattled on nervously, eyeing Dwight from the corner of his eye to check for any violent reactions from the other actor but the latter remained engrossed in finishing his blueberry cheesecake and seem to be caught up in his bubble and not paying attention to the other men. Win sighed in relief before speaking in a relieved tone.

“Uhm, okay! I was expecting some heavy BDSM plot or anything but I think that is quite common. So Dwight said something about me being an inanimate character. Does that mean that I am the life-size wooden sculpture?” Win prodded cautiously. Dwight remained quiet as he watched the two men from the rim of the glass he was drinking sparkling water from.

“Yes, you are supposed to be stark-naked but production design decided to put a loincloth so that you would resemble the sculpture of Greek gods minus the exposed genitals,” Toffer answered in a content tone, feeling happier that their prospects are looking good at the moment.

“I would have to thank the production design for that. Then, who would play the master sculptor? Can I watch the auditions so that they can pick someone who I think I would be comfortable working with?” Win asked in an enthusiastic tone and was surprised when Toffer suddenly paled and Dwight’s mouth suddenly pressed together in a straight line.

“There would be auditions for the other casts but the role of the Sculptor has been cast already,” Toffer said haltingly, testing the waters. Win seemed to connect the dots at this point and he straightened up in his seat before speaking.

“You mean, my master and lover would be—“ Win started hesitantly but was cut off by a sharp tone that would have cut the palpable tension in the air if it was a knife.

“Me. I would be your master AND lover here,” Dwight said in a grim and detached tone, his stoic face not betraying any emotion underneath.

Win felt his throat dry momentarily and he lost his voice for almost a full minute before he was able to regain his bearings. He would be cavorting with THE Dwight Buencamino, the most sought-after stage actor in Philippine theatre who is known for being very particular and picky with the roles he accepts. Win thought incredulously. He should have seen it coming since the two of them were called together but he was still hoping that they wouldn’t be paired as a couple. Now all those hopes lay discarded on his feet as he looked at Dwight with newfound dread causing the older actor to shake his head ruefully.

“I knew it. You should have told him in an email before you summoned him out here, now look at the poor boy, pale as a ghost,” Dwight said apprehensively as he crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back on his chair as Toffer fumbled with an explanation.

“I thought he would be okay with it. My secretary accidentally sent the email to another actor but they already declined because of prior commitments. Merwin is our first choice for this role, it was just an honest mistake on the part of my secretary. She just told me this morning that she sent the email to the wrong actor just when I was able to get Win’s confirmation that he is available for our talk today,” Toffer stuttered nervously under Dwight’s piercing gaze. Win remained silent but reached for the glass of water in front of him and took a long gulp. Dwight sighed harshly before speaking in an annoyed tone.

“What’s done is done. There is still enough time to hold auditions for the other lead role, I’m sure there would be other bold, aspiring actors out there who—“ Dwight blabbered on but was cut off by Win’s even tone.

“Who told you that I am declining the role? I’m in,” Win said as he put down the glass and used the back of his hand to wipe the moisture from his lips.

“You don’t have to force yourself if you are not comfortable, Win,” Dwight said uneasily but Win just shook his head grimly before speaking in a self-assured tone.

“Art comforts the afflicted and disturbs the comfortable. I am a professional actor and I am confident that I was handpicked for reasons that I might not realize yet but I am willing to explore for the sake of honing my craft. I would never pass up the chance to work with the great Dwight Buencamino,” Win said fervently before beaming at Dwight who raised a delicate eyebrow in surprise before slowly nodding his head.

“Not bad. I hope I exceed your expectations of me, Win,” Dwight said in an even tone before fixing his piercing gaze on Win who smiled pleasantly and offered his hand to Dwight for a handshake to somewhat close the deal. Dwight didn’t hesitate to take Win’s hands in a firm grip.

“Same here, Dwight. I hope we work well together,” Win beamed, showing his prominent cheekbones and cute bunny teeth.

“Good, we are all set then. You can be present during the auditions but you are more required to be at the script reading when all the other roles have been filled up,” Toffer said with relief evident in his voice.

“Can you send me the script in advance? I would like to read it as soon as possible so I can get into character easier,” Win said as he picked up the saucer containing the only untouched slice of Blueberry cheesecake. Win almost forgot to eat his dessert because of his anxiety earlier but now, the lone slice of decadently fluffy dessert seemed rather appetizing.

“I’ll send it to you. I have my copy anyway, just don’t mind the notes and highlights,” Dwight was quick to say as he pulled out his wallet and thumbed through his cards.

“No problem, Dwight! Here is my email address,” Win said as he placed the empty saucer down on the table and fished a business card from the left breast pocket of the grey blazer he wore over a pale blue button-down shirt with top buttons undone. He handed the card to Dwight who took it using his forefinger and middle finger.

“Good, I’ll send it as soon as I get home. The digital copy is on my desktop computer at home, here is my card, all my contact details are there in case you need to talk about anything regarding this project,” Dwight said as he placed Win’s business card inside his wallet before taking out his business card and giving it to Win. Win received the card with his thumb and forefinger.

“I think you two will get along well, see you during the script reading!” Toffer said, as the three of them stood up one after the other and shook each other’s hands before leaving the room one after the other.

Win immediately hit the weights as soon as he got home. He might have a naturally sculpted figure but he isn’t taking any chances. He wanted so badly to look the part of a Greek god statue and wipe the condescending smirk out of Dwight’s lips.

“Who does he think he is? He may be older than me in the industry but that doesn’t give him the right to sound so patronizing!” Win said in irritation as he set the appropriate weight in the lat pull-down before adjusting the seat and pad to the proper settings. Then, he grasped the bar above his head before sitting down, placing his legs under the leg pad. When he has achieved the proper position he started to slowly pull the bar down to his chest. This exercise works both his biceps and one of his back muscles for the sake of a better-proportioned build.

Win has indeed looked up to Dwight ever since he was just a Theatre Arts student at the university. Dwight is two years his senior and has played both classic and contemporary lead roles during his more than ten years in the industry. Win has always wanted to work with the older actor since he believes that he would learn more by actually working with one of the theatre’s most esteemed personalities.

But after that brief meeting with Dwight over coffee, Win felt like the senior actor is belittling his skills. Win may still be relatively new in the business but he is a risk-taker. He has taken on all the roles offered to him in a bid to gain as much publicity and experience in a short period. His efforts eventually paid off when eagle-eyed casting agents started noticing his impeccable stage presence not to mention the model-like features that made even the crappiest stage costumes look good on him. He has this uncanny talent of being able to pull off even the shabbiest costume designs and make his performance shine brighter than his appearance. He might be younger than Dwight but he is not a neophyte and he wouldn’t let Dwight treat him like one.

“Let’s see who is going to shine brighter and win the audience’s hearts in this project, Mister Dwight Buencamino,” Win muttered determinedly as he continued his workout routine.

“Don’t blink, Win! You are supposed to be a statue!” The stage manager, Green Mendez exclaimed when Win blinked for the nth time in the rehearsal for their scene.

Dwight and Win both sighed in exasperation. This was the nth time that they had to rehearse this particular scene and Win still can’t get it right.

“What is the problem, Win?” Green said while putting a hand on Win’s bare shoulder.

“I’m just—I—I’m unnerved by Dwight’s eyes!” Win stammered while trying to keep his voice from wavering.

“What’s wrong with my eyes? I’m just doing what my character should be doing and that is looking at my masterpiece with adoration. How can I be the one at fault here?” Dwight said in a slightly raised voice and Win crossed his arms over his bare chest.

“I’m not saying it’s your fault, Dwight. I am just saying that your stare is too intense. I don’t know how to act unaffected by it. I have never played a statue before,” Win reasoned out in a frustrated tone, he hated himself for feeling this way.

“I think we need a break,” Dwight said as he turned his back on Win, Green, and the rest as the other present members of the stage crew all groaned in annoyance. Win felt heat creep up his cheeks in humiliation as he picked up his robe and shoved his arms through the holes in the sleeves. He is clad only in skimpy cycling shorts to simulate nakedness.

“I think I need some fresh air,” Win muttered as he tersely put on his loafers and walked towards the backdoor while tying the robe’s belt tightly in place.

“Hey!” Win turned around from leaning over a small balcony near the fire exit when he saw Dwight come out from the door leading inside the building.

“Uhm, Hi Dwight,” Win said listlessly and Dwight stood next to him in that small space.

“You okay?” Dwight asked with palpable concern in his voice.

“I’m good. Just disappointed with myself,” Win said in a frustrated tone as he fixed his gaze on the rows of buildings towering over the Metro.

“Don’t be. It would do you no good to start doubting yourself now,” Dwight said in a kind tone as he crossed his arms over his chest before leaning on the railings that Win was currently leaning on.

“I don’t get it. Why can’t I nail this scene? Why does your stare unnerve me that much?” Win asked as he turned to look at Dwight’s perfect side profile. Dwight was also staring out at the urban landscape sprawled before them.

“Because I intimidate you?” Dwight asked cautiously and Win scoffed bitterly.

“Maybe, I mean you are intimidating. Add to the fact that I am almost naked while doing this scene with you,” Win said in a dull tone and Dwight looked at him with furrowed brows.

“But you’ve acted almost naked on stage before,” Dwight said with narrowed eyes as if daring Win to rebut his statement.

“That was different; I was comfortable with my co-actor then,” Win said candidly and the furrows on Dwight’s brows deepened.

“Do you mean to say you are not comfortable with me?” Dwight said in a slightly offended tone but Win just shrugged it off.

“Maybe, it’s our first time working together and we already had to do intimate scenes like this,” Win said in a nonchalant manner that made Dwight roll his eyes in disbelief.

“You’ve done intimate scenes before,” Dwight reminded Win, and Win just sighed heavily.

“Yes but that’s different,” Win repeated his answer from before, struggling to find the right words to say that wouldn’t offend the older actor.

“Is it because I am also a guy?” Dwight said bluntly and Win flinched at the accuracy of the other man’s perception.

“Maybe? But I can adjust eventually, I just need more time to get into character,” Win said in a voice that tried to mask his self-doubts.

“Don’t imagine some pretty face when you are looking at me, that won’t work,” Dwight suddenly blurted out of the blue.

“Then what should I do? Can you give me some tips?” Win said and looked at the other actor in confusion. Dwight turned his head to look at Win and their gazes met.

“You can find one feature on my face that you can stare at for hours, except my eyes. It can be my nose, cheeks, or forehead as long as it’s on my face. Focus your eyes there and…” Dwight paused for effect and Win involuntarily gulped at the intensity in Dwight’s stare so he quickly lowered his gaze to look at the older actor’s cupid bow-shaped lips instead.

“And? What else?” Win said without looking directly into Dwight’s eyes.

“Look at me like you want me,” Dwight said in a husky voice that sent shivers down Win’s spine despite the humid air of the Metro’s early afternoon.

Look at me like you want me.

The words kept echoing inside Win’s head hours after their rehearsal ended. They were finally able to nail that difficult scene when Win decided to focus his eyes on Dwight’s cupid bow lips instead of the senior actor’s eyes. He noticed that there was a scar at the upper left corner of Dwight’s lips but it didn’t diminish the actor’s rugged attractiveness. It was quite mesmerizing to look at and Win felt time stop for a moment during their rehearsal until he heard the director’s triumphant “cut!” to end that particular scene.

“Why did he have to say it like that? It’s like butterflies are fluttering in my stomach because of the low tone he used.” Win mumbled irritably as he rolled around in bed that night. Is Dwight really that good of an actor to act like he really adored me? My insides are still melting from that gaze alone! Damn! Am I gay now? Win thought anxiously as he remembered Dwight’s words.

Look at me like you want me.

It worked like a charm. Now he wants to feel those lips against his own. He couldn’t wait for them to rehearse their kissing scene. He knew he was treading dangerous waters but he didn’t care anymore. He knew this was something different but does Dwight feel the same way too?

Dwight remained his cool, confident self during rehearsals but Win is slowly disintegrating into a bundle of nerves. He is always giddy with excitement whenever he arrives early in the morning for their rehearsals. Their director was considerate enough to ask his actors how they envisioned each scene so Dwight usually suggests ways or techniques to add impact to each scene. Wooden Flesh is a modern retelling of the 80’s comic book cult hit Machete but with a BL twist. Win presumed that some angsty writer must have gotten their heart broken irrevocably to be able to write such a dark and haunting screenplay. But since it won accolades, maybe the writer wouldn’t be that heartbroken anymore. The story is deeply melodramatic and Win sometimes cringed at the overly sappy lines but putting himself in character helped a lot in dealing with the discomfort.

Dwight has been very supportive of Win from the get-go, always giving Win tips on how to execute his parts and say his lines perfectly. At the times when Win would falter due to nervousness or giddiness, Dwight would do ad-libs to cue Win on how the conversation or scene should go. Win has no problem with the overly dramatic parts but the intimacy required in some scenes is starting to get on his nerves. He has started overthinking and giving meaning to Dwight’s every move. The way the older actor always hugged him before they part ways was what Win always looked forward to every day. Even the way Dwight always remembered to ask Win out to eat lunch when they can just ask the crew to buy food for all of them without leaving the stage felt different to Win. He has never experienced being taken care of by a co-actor before since he has always been the one looking out for his leading ladies. The role reversal seemed to unnerve Win who slowly developed a strong infatuation for the older actor he initially swore to upstage.

Doing a love scene has never been a problem for Win before. He can act naturally even amid all the spectators while enacting a steamy scene. Of course, there have been times when the attraction spilled over after the performance and he found himself in bed with his on-stage partner before the night is through. Win has kissed and simulated making love to numerous women on-stage but he liked to keep his personal life separated from his onstage persona. Yes, he had hooked up with a few of his co-actresses after their show ended its run because it would be unwise to get emotionally involved with a co-actor while the show is having its nightly runs. Hook-ups, One-night stands, casual sex, whatever you call it, it never lasted long enough for Win to consider investing himself emotionally in it. He is not the promiscuous type but acting can have its share of stressful moments too so he sometimes turns to sex for release. Some stage actors do that and as long as it doesn’t affect their onstage performance then nobody would bat an eyelash at the practice.

But acting with Dwight awakened in Win certain feelings that he didn’t know he possessed. Like when Dwight stared into his eyes with such longing and adoration that Win can feel his insides twist into knots. Or the way Dwight’s tanned skin always felt so warm and fuzzy against his own. A simple touch can make his heartbeat race frantically and Win is starting to get worried. Am I developing feelings for my senior co-actor?

Win was pulled out of his reverie when Dwight gently brushed away Win’s bangs from his forehead. He looked at his senior co-actor hovering over him as they lay on the bedraggled sofa in the middle of the room. As usual, Win is half-naked, clad only in the loincloth that the costume design provided for him.

“You are so beautiful, Eros!” Dwight whispered huskily as he smoothed back Win’s hair away from the younger actor’s forehead using his parted fingers. “My masterpiece, my creation, all mine!”

“What do you want me to do, Master Levi?” Win said in the most innocent yet sensual tone he can manage despite the wild beating of his heart as Dwight’s lips hovered teasingly over his own.

“Nothing, you don’t have to do anything. You are already perfect as you are,” Dwight said in a passionate tone that aroused anticipation within Win. This is the first time they would have to kiss on stage and all the build-up from the workshops before had Win’s nerves wound so tightly that he felt he would snap if this kiss doesn’t happen anytime soon.

“But I am not like you, Master Levi. I don’t feel anything. This skin doesn’t feel anything at all,” Win said with child-like naivete and Dwight smirked amusedly at the tone that the younger actor used.

“Then I would make you feel something, just trust in me,” Dwight said in a confident tone that made excitement bloom inside Win’s bare chest.

“I trust you, Master. With everything I am and everything I have,” Win said in a breathless tone just loud enough for the audience to hear.

Dwight smiled before lowering his head to claim Win’s lips in a gentle yet emotional kiss that took the younger actor’s breath away. It was tentative yet teasing and Win felt a lump form at the back of his throat as tears started to prick behind his closed eyelids. It was more than what Win imagined their first kiss would be like. Unconsciously, Win clung to Dwight’s bicep as Dwight deepened the kiss without using his tongue. Win wanted to bawl his eyes out at that moment but he kept his emotions in check.

This is just acting, Win. It’s not real. Pull yourself together. He berated himself even as a solitary tear managed to squeeze out of his eyelids and roll down his cheek as the director’s voice echoed throughout the room.

“Cut! That was perfect!”

And just like that, Dwight broke the kiss abruptly and looked at Win with concern in his eyes when he saw the wet trail on the younger actor’s cheeks.

“Are you okay, Win? Did I go too far?” Dwight asked with evident concern as he brushed his thumb against Win’s wet cheeks.

“No! I’m good, I was just overwhelmed maybe? I didn’t expect the kiss to be like that,” Win said as he tried to stem the tide of emotions threatening to swallow him whole.

“Were you expecting something else?” Dwight said in a slightly teasing tone to lighten up Win’s mood.

“I don’t know, maybe?” Win answered blandly as he can still feel the butterflies that Dwight’s kiss awakened in his stomach. Dwight picked up Win’s robe and helped Win into it.

“Good job, Win and Dwight! I had goosebumps in this scene! Your chemistry is just so explosive! I am sure we would be having an extended run after the initial schedules are finished,” The overall director, Robert De Luna placed an arm around Win and Dwight’s shoulders as he exclaimed animatedly.

“Was it that good?” Win asked in disbelief.

“Yes! And that random tear, nice touch. I hope you can recreate that scene every time we mount the play. I can feel the tenderness and the passion plus the kiss was everything I envisioned it to be. Props to the casting director for selecting the perfect actors for the role.” Robert blabbered on happily unaware of Win’s glum mood.

Dwight smirked confidently while Win’s mind and heart are in chaos. Was all of that just good acting on Dwight’s part? Didn’t he feel the same emotions that I was feeling during the scene? Was he that good to invoke these unfamiliar feelings from his co-actor?

“I think I need a break,” Win said before clutching at his robe tightly and running backstage. Curious stares bore into his back but he didn’t care. He needed someplace to vent out his frustrations.

“What’s wrong with him? Is he sick?” Robert asked Dwight who seemed to have realized something.

“Upset stomach,” Dwight murmured in a half-hearted response before following Win backstage.

Win was sobbing loudly in the dressing room when Dwight arrived. He made sure to lock the door behind him before running towards his co-actor.

“Win! What’s wrong?” Dwight said in an apprehensive tone.

“Get out!” Win spat out without lifting his head from his knees. He sat curled up like a fetus on the chair where actors are dolled up before their appearance on stage. The bright lights and mirrors all around the room served as muted witnesses to the two actors’ tense interaction.

“Why? What did I do?” Dwight asked in an flustered tone, his cool actor façade momentarily slipping off.

“Does it feel good, huh? Do you feel superior by toying with my feelings like that?” Win shouted back at Dwight, uncaring if anybody else hears them from outside the dressing room.

“What are you talking about?” Dwight said in an uneasy tone. He is starting to realize what might have caused the younger actor’s outburst.

“Then why? Why is it so easy for you to slip in and out of character as you do? Why can’t I do that? What’s wrong with me? I haven’t been affected like this before,” Win wailed anxiously as he clutched at his head and pulled at his hair.

“Calm down, Win!” Dwight immediately came closer and disentangled Win’s fingers from his hair.

“No! I won’t! I won’t stand for this! We are supposed to be acting and not playing with emotions,” Win flailed blindly so that Bright will release his firm hold on the younger actor’s wrist.

“I wasn’t playing with your emotions,” Dwight said in a clinical and almost chilling way that made Win snap his head up to look at the older actor straight in those big, brown eyes.

“Yeah right! Says someone who after hearing “Cut!” automatically reverts to reality,” Win said in a sarcastic tone as he forcefully pulled back his arms, causing Dwight to release his firm grip on the younger actor’s wrist. Win gently massaged the reddened skin, slightly worried that the imprint of Dwight’s fingers would cause a bruise.

“Then what should I do? We are actors, Win! We are just acting! Those emotions are just part of our character!” Dwight said empathically as he crossed his arms across his chest, trying hard not to look at Win’s slightly exposed collarbone because of the haphazard way the younger actor pulled on his robe earlier.

“Thank you for rubbing that in, I needed that. Guess I am not fit for this role after all because my heart isn’t made of stone!” Win lamented while rubbing his eyes using the heels of his palms.

“Are you bailing out on us?” Dwight asked in a tone that is both cold and worried.

“No, because I am a professional actor. I would never leave anyone hanging like someone I know,” Win said as he put down his legs and pulled at the edges of his robe so that he would be decently covered in the soft fabric.

“I am a professional too. That is why I had to end it just like that,” Dwight said in a terse way as he pulled another chair and sat on it backward, hugging the backrest with his muscled arms still clothed in the coarse fabric that his 18th-century knee-length coat was made of.

“What do you mean?” Win asked, his delicate brows furrowed in confusion.

“I never get involved with my co-actors, Win. Never,” Dwight looked directly at Win with conviction in his eyes and Win had to feign innocence to save himself from further humiliation.

“What are you talking about?” Win said fretfully, narrowing his eyes to make himself look menacing.

“I hope you aren’t catching feelings for me already, Win” Dwight said in a tender yet remorseful voice.

“Why would I? We are both guys,” Win scoffed loudly as he crossed his arms over his chest but the lie tasted bitter on his tongue.

“But your eyes say otherwise,” Dwight said tenderly and Win’s breath hitched at the direct implication.

“My eyes?” Win stammered nervously and Dwight just nodded slowly in response.

“Your eyes say more than your mouth will ever do unless we are kissing,” Dwight said with a smirk, and Win was mortified when he felt heat creep up his face from his neck.

“Damn you!” Win spat out as he instinctively covered his mouth with his hand to hide his blush.

“Damn you too! Do you think I am enjoying this? This is hard for me too but I cannot feel the same way you feel about me,” Dwight finally stood up after roughly pushing the chair away from him.

“Oh, so you knew,” Win said in a defeated tone. There is no use denying anything.

“For a long time now, yes!” Dwight said as he slid his hands inside the front pocket of the costume he was wearing and slowly turned his back on Win to face one of the empty walls.

“And what do we do about it?” Win asked as he slowly got up from the chair he was currently sitting on.

“Nothing. Should we do something about it?” Dwight tried to sound unbothered but the slight crack in his voice betrayed his true feelings beneath his stoic façade.

“You’re right. You’re too good for all of this anyway,” Win muttered in a sarcastic tone before he stormed out of the dressing room in a huff leaving Dwight staring unblinkingly at the blank wall before a single tear rolled down the older actor’s cheek.

“How dare you let that man touch you?” Dwight jabbed a forefinger at Win’s collarbone, hidden behind a frilled linen shirt under a full-skirted knee-length brown coat. Dwight was dressed similarly but his coat is deep blue. They both wore knee-breeches, silk stockings, and low-heeled leather shoes with pointed toes.

“What is wrong with it, Master Levi? It was just a friendly hug,” Win said in an innocent tone that was devoid of any malice as he looked at Dwight with confused eyes.

“That man wants you! He wants to take you away from me,” Dwight glowered at him while pointing at something off-stage. Win just blinked innocently at the older actor’s fury.

“But nobody can do that, Master. I am only yours. You created me so I belong to you,” Win said naively and Dwight’s eyes darkened as he came closer to the younger actor.

“Do you really want to belong to me?” Dwight asked huskily as he gently pushed the lapels of the long coat past Win’s broad shoulders and Win just let the coat fall to the floor, leaving him in his frilled linen shirt.

“Do I have a choice?” Win asked bitterly and Dwight’s eyes flashed with hurt but the older actor immediately slipped back into character as he drew Win closer to him.

“Are you happy here with me?” Dwight asked in an extremely tender tone that almost made Win’s knees buckle if not for Dwight’s arm holding him by the waist.

“Yes, Master,” Win said in a drained voice. Dwight raised a hand and gently caressed Win’s cheek with his thumb.

“Your eyes have lost all their sparkle. You are lying,” Dwight said in a soft yet reproachful voice, and Win looked back at the older actor with pain in his eyes.

“I don’t want to be imprisoned in your mansion, master. I want to see the world,” Win said in a desperate pleading voice that was like a knife stabbing the older actor’s chest.

“But the world is a dangerous place, Eros. People would use you and abuse you! They will leave you broken and useless,” Dwight said uneasily, emphasizing the words of the last sentence.

“I am already broken beyond repair, Master,” Win lowered his head in a defeated stance, refusing to look into Dwight’s face to emphasize his solitude.

“Why? Who broke you?” Dwight said as he used his forefinger to raise Win’s chin so he can look into the latter’s face, less than a foot away from his own.

“The pretty lady who always comes here with beautiful flowers for your vase, you love her, right?” Win asked in a tentative voice, peering into the older actor’s eyes to gauge the latter’s feelings.

“She is my fiancé. We are about to get married next month,” Dwight said in a resigned tone, and Win pushed him away by placing both hands against Bright’s chest and then walking to his designated spot for this scene, away from Dwight.

“So what will happen to me, then, Master Levi? Will I be left to rot in your study until you make me my own pair?” Win said with pointed sarcasm, his true feelings manifesting themselves in the words of his character.

“You don’t need a pair! You have me! I created you in the image of a dream because I feel empty and lonely,” Dwight approached Win and shook him vehemently by grabbing the younger actor’s shoulders.

“But you don’t need me anymore, Master. You have her. You are not lonely anymore,” Win remained impassive despite Dwight grasping his shoulders tightly it almost hurt.

“I would be lonely if I don’t have you. I don’t love her but I have to marry her so I could keep this mansion, our mansion,” Dwight said brusquely but his voice belied his frustration and plea for understanding.

“I could live somewhere else as long as I am with you. Master Levi. I don’t need a mansion, anyway,” Win said simply as if it was the easiest thing to do. At that, Dwight let go of him and turned away to walk towards a marked spot near center stage.

“What do you know? You don’t eat, you don’t grow old and you are only alive during the night! How would you know what being human feels like?” Dwight said in a stage whisper so that the audience can hear him clearly but his co-actor seemed oblivious to what he said because Win just smiled sadly as he looked at Bright whose back was turned against him.

“I only know one thing, Master. And that is my heart only belongs to you whatever happens. But I can’t spend the rest of my days collecting dust in the attic while you build a family with her. You created me so be responsible for me,” Win said in a stage whisper, raising his hand as if reaching out towards Dwight but ended up balling his outstretched hand into a fist and placing that fist on his chest, directly on top of his frantically beating heart.

“What do you want?” Dwight said to Win while still looking at the audience and his back turned against Win. Win kicked off his shoes at this point before answering.

“I want to be free. Free from the hurt that I feel in this heart that you gave me,” Win said ardently as he slowly unbuttoned his frilled shirt.

“How do I do that?” Dwight asked loudly, still with his back turned against Win while the latter slowly removed each layer of clothing on him, dropping each item carelessly on the stage floor.

“When I turn back to wood, destroy me,” Win said with conviction as he discreetly hid behind the sofa which is a part of the stage design while he took off his knee-breeches.

“No!” Dwight said in a loud voice that surprised the audience.

“Burn me down until I turn into ashes,” Win continued with only his naked upper body visible to the audience as he started putting on his loincloth.

“No!” Dwight said in a louder and more desperate voice.

“Spread my ashes over this land so I can still linger where you are,” Win said as he finally showed his full body to the audience, naked except for a loincloth wrapped tightly around his waist

“Stop it!” Dwight said vehemently and covered his ears with his hands, still facing the audience.

“If you really love me, Master Levi you would set me free,” Win said as he slowly walked towards Dwight.

“I can’t! I can’t lose you, Eros!” Dwight said as he turned around to face Win who is now smiling sadly at him.

“The sun is about to rise, Master Levi. I have to go now,” Win said as he planted a kiss on Dwight’s forehead, the contact enough to send his heart into a frenzy anew.

“Wait! Don’t leave me yet! Eros!” Dwight said as he reached out a hand towards Win who is slowly backing away from Dwight with a sad smile on his face.

“Goodnight, Master,” Win said as he slowly went back to his position as a statue while Dwight knelt in front of him, bawling his eyes out silently as the curtain falls on the third act to the sound of thunderous applause.

Win stumbled out of his position while Dwight slowly stood up from his kneeling stance. The crowd was roaring in approval and the excitement was palpable as everybody waited for the fourth and final act of the play. The two of them exchanged no words as they passed through the stage door to head into their separate dressing rooms. One of the stagehands handed Win his robe while the other crew was busy picking up the scattered clothing and setting up the props for the next act. Win put on the robe without missing a step.

Win went to his dressing room and tightened his robe around him. They have enacted this scene countless times before but it still drains him terribly. Maybe because he could relate to his character, Eros who harbors unrequited feelings towards his master and creator.

Dwight and Win both learned how to separate their off-stage and on-stage worlds. During rehearsals, they were both calm and indifferent to each other’s presence. But everything changes when they are already performing in front of huge crowds. They seamlessly embody their characters so well that they have earned rave reviews in their first few performances. There have also been rumors linking the two of them to each other because of how they convincingly play the star-crossed lovers on stage.

But that has never been too far from the truth. Now, Dwight always acts cold and indifferent around Win during breaks, and Win just channels all of his frustrations in his role and this proved effective as they were able to realistically portray their roles. Gone were the days of easy banters, eating lunch together, rehearsing lines with each other, and Dwight giving tips on how Win should attack his role better. Now, it’s just an empty space between the two co-actors. Everything is clinical and professional now between Dwight and Win. And Win thinks it’s his fault so he just has to grin and bear it until their play finishes its run.

But Win still can’t avoid getting affected whenever they perform their intimate scenes. The Dwight who takes him gently in his arms and kisses him softly yet passionately seems like a totally different person from the Dwight who ignores Win bluntly off-stage. He knows why Dwight is keeping his distance but he couldn’t help but keep his hopes up whenever they interact intimately on-stage.

Will the real Dwight Buencamino please stand up?

It was the last night of the play’s extended run. The play ran for several months excluding weekends and Win was torn about letting go of both Eros and Dwight. He might already be resigned to the fact that his older co-actor would never feel the same way for him but at least they get to see each other a lot. Now that they are down to their last performance night, Win felt an unmistakable sense of loss. He didn’t know how to go back to life before he met Dwight. It would be hard but he has no choice. As with Eros’ character, he would rather disappear than live the rest of his life brokenhearted because of a man who will never be fully his.

But Win is not Eros and he couldn’t just choose to disappear from the face of the Earth after their last show together. He would just have to pretend that Dwight never happened in his life so that he can easily move on from the pain of being rejected by the only person he has so far liked deep enough to want something more than a casual hookup.

A good friend from the media suddenly approached Win as he alighted from his vehicle. It was an ambush interview but Win doesn’t have the strength to resist so he just smiled at the camera as the journalist thrust a microphone into Win’s face before asking a question.

“So, what are you planning to do after this?” Karen Adoracion, a wildly popular vlogger and entertainment broadcaster asked Win in a conversational tone as if there is no camera pointed at them.

“I’m planning to rest from the theatre for at least a year,” Win said in a self-assured way even if the idea just recently came to mind.

“Really? But why does it have to be that long?” Karen asked with furrowed brows.

“This play really drained me a lot. I think I would need a year to recharge from all the hurt and pain,” Win said honestly and it was the truth.

“Wow, you internalized Eros that much, huh?” Karen said in amazement, thinking that Win was talking about his character’s pain and not his own.

“Yeah, you can say that,” Win said in a listless voice, his mind floating somewhere else.

“I’m just curious, the play ended in tragedy but if you were the author, what ending would you want for your characters?” Karen said and Win had to pause to think.

“I don’t know about Dwight’s character but for Eros, I would have wanted him to find someone who could give him the love he truly deserves even if he is just alive by night. I mean, maybe Master Levi can carve another statue so that Eros wouldn’t be alone anymore while he builds a family with Rosetta. He can at least be responsible for making his creation fall in love with him even if he is already committed,” Win said self-assuredly, and Karen furrowed her brows in confusion, obviously not expecting the actor’s answer.

“So you would rather that Eros gets a new partner than Levi choosing to perish with him in the fire?” Karen asked incredulously and Win smiled positively at her.

“If I were Eros, I wouldn’t be happy with my Master giving up his life just to be with me. I am not even human. He could have destroyed the statue and gone with Eros’ wish so that they both get the closure they deserve. Levi deserved to be happy with his fiancé, too,” Win explained his answer patiently and Karen nodded slowly in realization.

“But what if Levi can’t be happy without Eros?” Karen prodded further and the question hit a raw nerve in Win as he straightened up his shoulders to answer.

“Then he should have chosen him. He should have given up Rosetta and run away with Eros to a place where nobody knows them. Levi was selfish for wanting to keep everything for himself. He wanted Eros but he wanted to keep his fame and fortune as well by marrying Rosetta,” Win boldly said, effectively hiding his contempt behind a soft tone.

“Wow! You have them deep down in your system already,” Karen enthused and Win chuckled in agreement.

“That is why I need a year to flush them all out so I can take on new roles again. It wouldn’t be easy to move on from them that easily,” Win said in a committed tone. Yes, it wouldn’t be easy moving on from Dwight but it has to be done and it can be done. Win thought grimly to himself.

“How about your rumored relationship with THE Dwight Buencamino?” Karen added with a mischievous lilt in her voice but Win’s face just hardened in response.

“Oh, we are professional actors. Nothing is going on between us behind the scenes,” Win said nonchalantly as if the statement didn’t cause him countless sleepless nights before,

“But your chemistry is just off the charts. Do you want us to believe that all of that was just acting?” Karen prodded further, obviously unconvinced with Win’s answer.

“Yes, Dwight is a good co-actor. His excellent portrayal of Levi really brought out the Eros in me,” Win admitted candidly because it was the truth. He had initially planned to upstage Dwight but ended up falling for the older actor instead. The joke’s on me, huh? Win thought drily to himself.

“Well, we would just have to take your word for it, Win. Break a leg!” Karen said and waved as Win started to walk away from her.

“Thank you, catch you later!” Win said politely before waving back and continuing on his way to the theatre entrance.

Win ran off towards the direction of the dressing room and the reporter left with his cameraman in tow. They didn’t notice a tall figure emerge from the darkness behind the stage props and look in the direction that Win has run in.

“Eros! Eros!” Dwight’s voice echoed on stage while the sound effect of a crackling fire can be clearly heard.

“I am here, Master Levi!” Win said before coughing several times as thin smoke started to float around the stage. Dwight ran to Win whose coat was drenched in fake blood.

“Who did this to you?” Dwight said with concern as he placed one of Win’s arms around his shoulder to help the younger actor hobble to their designated spot in the center of the stage. Win is taller and consequently heavier but Dwight’s lean physique packs more strength than what would be expected of his relatively smaller form.

“You didn’t have to come back, you just got married! Rosetta would be looking for you,” Win said as Dwight gently let him down the floor so he can sit comfortably.

“We all saw the smoke coming from the mansion, I ran here as fast as I can,” Dwight explained in a flustered tone, remembering to cough intermittently because they are supposed to be inside a mansion that is slowly being eaten up by flames.

“I do not know them Master Levi, but they hurt me because they said you were cheating on Rosetta with me. Then they doused the curtains with smelly liquid before setting them on fire. I was able to run to the study and lock myself in so they just escaped when the fire started to spread,” Win sputtered his words in between gasps and coughs.

“It must be her father’s goons. What else do they want? I already married Rosetta!” Dwight angrily exclaimed as he took a handkerchief from his pocket and tried to press it on Win’s stomach where the stab wound is supposed to be.

“They wanted me dead, Master Levi. If you just gave in to my request, this wouldn’t have happened,” Win said, wheezing pitifully as Dwight placed the younger actor’s head on his lap, reminiscent of the famous PETA sculpture.

“I can’t! I can’t destroy you with my own hands!” Dwight said as he held Win’s trembling hands with his own, the red coloring from the fake blood smearing both their hands.

“Then let this fire destroy me, but you would have to watch your beloved mansion turn into ashes,” Win said in a resigned voice as he reached out his hand so he can graze Dwight’s face with his ‘bloodied’ fingers.

“I don’t care about this stupid mansion, I only care about you, Eros!” Dwight said in a distressed tone, unmindful of the streaks of red from Win’s fingers smearing his face.

“There is nothing we can do, Master Levi. The fire has spread all over the mansion. You are in grave danger, escape while you still can,” Win admonished Dwight and tried to push him away but Dwight suddenly crushed him in a tight embrace.

“No! I won’t leave you here to perish, Eros,” Dwight said fervently, squeezing his eyes shut as tears started to squeeze out of his eyelids. He pulled back from the embrace so he can look at Win’s face and saw that the younger actor was also in tears.

“But I am ready to go, Master Levi. Finally, I would be free and you will be happy with your wife,” Win said in a voice choked with sobs. The tears and the feelings are real but his words are still lifted from the script. Win had to use all of his willpower not to spill out what his heart truly feels at that moment. I am ready to leave. I am ready to move on from you, Dwight. So please let me go. Win pleaded inwardly as he looked at Dwight’s tear-streaked face smeared with fake blood.

“I would never be happy without you, Eros! I’m sorry if I made you feel like I don’t love you back but believe me, I am just as confused as you!” Dwight said with genuine trepidation that resounded loudly inside the hushed theatre.

Win’s eyes grew wide with surprise and disbelief. What was Dwight saying? That wasn’t in the script! Did he forget his lines? No, impossible! The great Dwight Buencamino never forgets his lines. Win thought tersely to himself as he struggled to remember his lines, temporarily distracted by Dwight’s adlib.

“I was never confused, Master Levi! Ever since you created me, my heart belonged to you and only you. But I know that we can never be because I am not even human like you,” Win said with much effort because Dwight’s face so dangerously near his own made his heart beat faster than usual.

“I thought I am not capable of love anymore after suffering so many heartbreaks in the past but since you came into my life, I felt like I could have another shot at happiness but at the same time I was afraid to admit to myself that I have fallen for you too,” Dwight said in a voice dripping with candor as tears continued to flow from his eyes.

Win’s tears pricked anew at the back of his eyes. This is not part of the script anymore! I don’t know what to say! How should I respond to this? Damn you Dwight for catching me off guard in the middle of our final act! Win thought anxiously as he struggled to compose himself.

“But it’s too late now, Master Levi. We have nowhere else to go before this fire consumes both of us!” Win continued reciting his script religiously, afraid of going out of line and out of character.

“I’d welcome being consumed by this fire if it means I can stay in your arms forever!” Dwight smirked handsomely after the whispered declaration despite the tears that kept on flowing from his expressive eyes.

“Will you burn with me in hell?” Win asked coyly, shedding all of his inhibitions, letting himself slip out of Eros’ persona for the last time.

“There wouldn’t be heaven without you. I love you, Win,” Dwight said empathically before claiming Win’s lips and muffling the latter’s surprised gasp as the sound effects of crackling fire grew louder and louder and the stage lights started to go out one by one until only the spotlight trained on the two figures remained. Their lips were still connected when the curtain slowly fell signaling the end of the play.

There was silence from the audience at the unexpected turn of events. Nobody uttered a word or made a sound until the curtains raised once more for the cast’s final curtain call. The bit players and the other minor characters all came forward and bowed simultaneously earning a round of appreciative applause from the still confused audience.

Next who came forward were the second lead actors led by premiere theatre actress Gigie Adriana who played the role of Rosetta. With her were the goons and another senior actor who played his father in the play. They all bowed to the audience together.

The last to come forward were Win and Dwight who came from backstage tightly holding each other’s hand. The audience erupted in cheers and hoots of approval as the two dashing leads waved bashfully to the crowd before taking their place at center stage. They were still dressed in their costumes for the last scene and never let go of each other’s hands as all the other cast stood side by side, forming a single line that went from one end of the stage to the other. The cast held hands and bowed at the audience at the same time earning a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd.

Then Dwight signaled for the microphone and a stage assistant immediately handed one to him. Without letting go of Win’s hand, Dwight held the microphone up to his mouth and smirked handsomely earning swoons from the enamored crowd.

“On behalf of all the people behind the production of “Wooden Flesh”, we would like to thank all of you for watching and appreciating the fruits of our hard work. Of course, this wouldn’t be possible if not for the brilliant mind of our beloved Playwright Andrea Albarillo. She is here with us right now, let’s give her a round of applause for her masterpiece,” Dwight said as the spotlight focused on a petite lady among the audience who waved shyly to the crowd.

“On the other hand, I would like to apologize to Miss Albarillo for going off-script in the final act. My emotions got the better of me and I wasn’t able to hold back what I truly feel for my co-star in that particular scene. It has always been my principle to never get involved with my co-actors because I do not want our working relationship to be compromised by personal connections,” Dwight said in a voice dripping with honesty and clarity while Win struggled to hold back his sobs while clutching at Dwight’s other hand as if it was his lifeline.

“All these weeks I let my co-actor overthink and suffer because I wanted him to stay as the doomed and heartbroken Eros also took a toll on me and I am just glad that this is all over now,” Dwight chuckled after the last phrase and the audience laughed with him.

“Thank you, Miss Albarillo for writing this story that brought me and Win together. Thank you to the casting director who chose us to be the lead actors in this play, and thanks to our director who gave us the creative freedom to flesh out our characters in our unique way. Without all of you, Wooden Flesh wouldn’t be as successful as this,” Dwight said and handed the microphone to Win who was now crying unabashedly. The crowd cheered him on with thunderous applause and chants of “Win! Win!”

“Sorry for ugly crying in front of you. I am just overwhelmed by all the support that we received ever since the play started its run until now. I am both sad and relieved that our run is over. Sad because I won’t be seeing our supportive staff and crew, my funny co-actors, and of course my handsome co-actor,” Win said before coyly looking at Dwight who looked back at Win with a modest smile. The crowd erupted in laughter and cheers.

“On the other hand, I am relieved to finally let Eros rest in the arms of his beloved Master Levi. I hope that they both find happiness wherever they may be right now. It’s time for Win to finally chase his happiness and let go of all the hurt and pain I endured as Eros. Thank you Miss Albarillo for being a part of the circumstances that brought me to meet THE Dwight Buencamino,” Win said before squeezing Bright’s hand and the older actor squeezed it back as they looked at each other adoringly while everybody went wild with the blunt admission coming from the two. The cast all waved to the crowd as the curtain started to go down again to finally end the play's final night.

The car stereo blasted in full volume through the opened windows of a parked car as Dwight and Win lay on a mat spread over the grass. They were on a secluded hill overlooking the city lights sparkling in the cool, midnight air.

“So, it was all a ploy to keep me in character?” Win propped his head on one hand as he turned sideward so he can look at Dwight whose handsome face is now free from fake blood and makeup.

“I am not that cruel, Win. But I have my rules and I abide by them. I never get involved with my co-actor,” Dwight also lay sideways and propped himself up with his elbow so he can face Win who suddenly looked forlorn.

“I know that,” Win murmured uneasily as he pulled himself up in a sitting position.

“While the play is still on its run,” Dwight continued before chuckling mischievously when Win’s head whipped towards him in lightning fastness.

“You mean you just wanted to finish this run before reciprocating my feelings? How cruel of you! You do not know how many nights I spent crying and overthinking because of all the mixed signals you are hmpft!” Win wasn’t able to continue speaking when Dwight suddenly pulled him down towards him and crashed his lips against Win’s own in a passionate and hot kiss that made Win’s mind go blank and his heart frantically beat against his chest. He couldn’t help but respond to the kiss when he felt Dwight pulling him closer by snaking his arms around his narrow waist.

Dwight then broke the kiss and smirked at Win’s disappointed expression before rolling off the younger actor so that they are again lying side by side and looking at the stars and the full moon overhead.

“I tried to keep away from you because I did not want to jeopardize our working relationship. Actors usually hook up with each other to dispel any sexual tension brewing within love teams but I do not buy into that. For me, physical intimacy is a black hole that inevitably sucks the life and passion out of the actor once the relationship starts to involve feelings. It’s hard not to fall for someone you get intimate with but love isn’t just physical, right?” Dwight explained patiently and Win reached out so he can hold the older actor’s hand.

“We play a lot of roles and sometimes we get too caught up in those roles that we confuse our feelings with the feelings of our characters. I was afraid that you were only internalizing Eros’ love for Levi and confusing it as affection for me as your co-actor,” Dwight said, and Win suddenly let go of the older actor’s hand to pull himself up in a sitting position, drawing his legs towards his chest in the fetal position he always preferred.

“I am not a neophyte in this industry and I have never involved myself with someone just because my character happened to fall in love with theirs. We share the same rules, never get involved with co-stars until after the project but I think I fell for you the moment you told me to look at you like I want you. Because yes, at that moment I realized that I could fall in love with you even if we are both guys. Rude awakening, huh?” Win said as he wrapped his arms around his bent legs and placed his chin over his knees. “Can you blame me for being honest?” Win murmured against his knees.

“I actually admire your honesty, Win but at that time I was really conflicted. I’ve seen so many instances when a play deteriorated because the relationship between the lead actors got sour too quickly. I didn’t want that to happen to Wooden Flesh, I love this project too much,” Dwight said as he too pulled himself up in a sitting position.

“Because it is angsty and tragic?” Win asked as he scooted closer to Dwight.

“Because it led me to you,” Dwight murmured tenderly as he placed an arm across Win’s back and pulled the younger actor by his waist.

“So, what do we do now?” Win asked as he boldly laid his head on Dwight’s shoulder.

“Should we do something?” Dwight cheekily replied as he nuzzled Win’s hair.

“Hey! Don’t go there. Not yet, anyway. I want to take this slow,” Win said as he attempted to pull away but Dwight’s grip was firm on his waist.

“Me too,” Dwight mused as he took Win’s other hand and raised it to his lips. As if on cue, the song from the radio changed into something upbeat and lively but the two actors remained oblivious to it and just remained on their cherished bubble pressed against each other.

Does he love me? I want to know

How can I tell if he loves me so?

“I’m just glad we are free now. It’s very hard to suppress feelings. If I wasn’t afraid of being called delusional, I would have said that you fell in love with me the first time you saw me,” Win said in a proud tone as he nudged the other man teasingly with his elbow.

Is it in his eyes?

Oh no! You’ll be deceived.

“Uhm, not really! I thought you were so full of yourself and I wanted to put you in your place,” Dwight chuckled as he planted another kiss on the back of Win’s hand he was currently holding. Win smiled at the tender gesture before nuzzling against Dwight’s face.

Is it in his sighs?

Oh no! He’ll make-believe

“Yes, I admit I may have ventured to upstage you but I was never able to do that. I now understand why you are so well-respected in the industry. And your kisses, damn! You must have all of your co-actors falling at your feet with that kiss,” Win pulled away momentarily so he can look at Dwight’s face which is slightly illuminated by the glow of city lights below them. The actor’s handsome features still looked astounding despite being half-hidden in shadows.

If you want to know if he loves you so

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is

“Uhm, I don’t do kissing scenes anymore. I stopped accepting roles with kissing scenes ever since I graduated from the University,” Dwight said simply, avoiding Win’s confused gaze. This is it, Dwight. The moment of truth.

Is it in his face?

Oh no! That’s just his charms.

In his warm embrace?

Oh no! That’s just his arms

“But why did you agree to it with me?” Win asked as he assumed a cross-legged sitting position when Dwight released his hand to stand up and get a cooler from the trunk of one of the vehicles parked behind them. Win just followed the older actor’s sure movements, his eyebrows furrowed deeply in confusion. Dwight prepared for this. This wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision to go all the way up here after our last performance night. Win thought to himself, realization dawning on him like slowly melting butter warming his insides. Dwight propped the cooler on the grass beside the mat opened it and took out two ice-cold beers in a can. He handed Win one of the cans before sitting back on the mat after removing his loafers and leaving them on the grass beyond the mat’s edge. Then he spoke softly while Win popped his beer open.

If you want to know if he loves you so

It’s in his kiss, that’s where it is

It’s in his kiss, that’s where it is

“I have followed most of your works and I was curious about how it would be working with you. I handpicked you for my partner in this project,” Dwight said casually as if he wasn’t feeling the butterflies fluttering in his stomach at that moment. How would Win react to the truth? Would he think that I am a creepy senior actor after all of this? Dwight thought to himself as he lifted the tab off of the can’s top making a short fizzling sound.

Hug him and squeeze him tight

Find out what you want to know

“You…what? But the casting director said that…” Win said with eyes slightly widened in surprise and Dwight took a swig from his beer before continuing in an even tone.

If it’s love if it really is

It’s there in his kiss

“It was just a ruse to keep things professional between us. They had another actor in mind but I insisted on trying to get you. The poor secretary wasn’t mistaken when they sent the email to that actor but I put my foot down. I told them that I wouldn’t accept the role if you wouldn’t agree to be Eros,” Dwight said calmly before taking another swig from his beer while Win just sat there dumbfounded, beginning to connect the dots he has gathered inside his head.

How about the way he acts?

Oh no! That’s not the way

And you’re not listening to all I say

“So that explains why the casting director looked so confused and awkward during our first meeting!” Win exclaimed loudly and Dwight smirked handsomely before speaking in an amused tone.

If you want to know if he loves you so

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is

“Yes, everything depended on you at that time. If you didn’t agree to be Eros then I wouldn’t be taking on Levi’s role too. They would have to hold auditions for the lead roles. I was just lucky that the playwright or Miss Albarillo specifically requested that I be cast for the role of Levi so I have some sort of leverage against the casting director’s choices,” Dwight smiled mischievously before flinching slightly when Win playfully nudged the older actor’s knee with his socked foot.

“Sneaky bastard!” Win said as he took a sip from his beer.

Hug him and squeeze him tight

Find out what you want to know

“But everything went well, didn’t it? You were perfect for the role, just as I envisioned you would be,” Dwight said in a calming tone while he scooted closer to Win who was pouting contemplatively over his can of beer.

“So everything was about you making me feel loved?” Win asked in a cautious tone as Dwight gently snaked one of his arms around Win’s shoulder to pull him closer while his other hand was putting down the can of beer he was holding on the grass.

If it’s love if it really is

It’s there in his kiss

“Yes and no. I didn’t expect that you would actually fall for me that fast. I was trying to build a comfortable relationship first but when you cried during our first kiss, I felt guilty. I felt like I was manipulating your feelings so that you would be the perfect Eros. I wanted you to fall for me as Dwight, not as Levi,” Dwight whispered in a gravelly voice, all his apprehensions slowly melting away.

“But it was clear to me from the start. I only loved Levi that much because he was played by you, Dwight,” Win stared back at Dwight with unadulterated happiness plastered upon his handsome face.

“Geez, this is too much to take in all at once,” Dwight said in an embarrassed tone as he tried to cover his face with his hand while Win chuckled awkwardly.

“Yeah, a lot of things have happened in the past few months. I don’t even know where to start,” Win murmured shyly as he placed the empty can on the grass before he scooted closer to Dwight’s embrace.

How about the way he acts?

Oh no! That’s not the way

And you’re not listening to all I say

“Can you start by saying you love me too?” Dwight said throatily against Win’s hair.

“How would you know that? I haven’t said the words out loud,” Win said in mock annoyance as he felt Dwight’s hot breath on his hair.

If you want to know if he loves you so

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is

“I can tell by the way you respond to my kisses, you act all cocky and aloof off-stage but whenever we kiss you seem like you are

ready to melt into my arms,” Dwight said in a teasing tone as he gently kissed Win’s temple, making the latter squirm in discomfiture.

“Stop that! You are embarrassing me!” Win said in mock admonition and Dwight just chuckled in amusement at how the tall experienced young actor is reduced into a blushing greenhorn with mere words.

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is

“So, I’m right?” Dwight prodded mischievously and Win had to hide his face in both his hands because he was mortified by the heat that has spread all over his face and neck.

“Ugh, why do you have to be such a good kisser?” Win exclaimed in frustration and Dwight laughed at the younger actor’s adorable antics.

“Because I do it by heart and not by duty. You are a good actor, Win. But your kisses tell me more than you ever would,” Dwight said in a solemn tone as if he was reciting an oath or a vow.

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is

“Then, would you like to know more about your masterpiece, Master?” Win said in a seductive tone that had Dwight narrowing his eyes at the subtle challenge those words held.

“I’d love to, my beloved” Dwight smirked before pulling Win closer for a torrid and scorching kiss that made even the moon and the stars above them blush in second-hand embarrassment at witnessing the two actors having their best moment away from the spotlight while the preppy song started to fade in the background.

It’s in his kiss

That’s where it is.