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Chapter 5 - Chapter 5 - A Famiiar Face In The Crowd

Narrator:

In every fandom, the excitement is always at its peak whenever a major event is coming up. And with the JakeFanatics anniversary just around the corner, the core team is in full prep mode—especially since a VIP guest is expected to attend.

But while everyone's busy juggling their own roles and lives, there's one person whose mind is occupied not just by schedules or personal problems. Co-Admin Janine has something else bothering her—and it's not a school subject.

[Personal Message; Admin Rose and Co-Admin Janine | 10:12 PM]

Admin Rose:

"Janine, sweetheart, I'll send you the final layout of the guest list later. You'll handle the venue booking for September 10, 2025 @ 6:00 PM."

Co-Admin Janine:

"Got it! Mommy. Even if I'm sleep-deprived from my thesis, I can still do it. We're JakeFanatics, after all. 😉"

Admin Rose:

"That's the spirit. For Jake, we go all out—no matter what." 😂

Narrator:

Even though Janine is still a student, she's one of the most committed admins in the fandom. The group is truly her passion—but there's another reason she's so enthusiastic about the events.

Just one thing: Jake.

She hasn't told anyone, but she's been silently loving on the singer for a long time.

So when a new member suddenly joined and quickly became active—Aya, Janine couldn't help but raise an eyebrow.

Quiet. Pretty. Smart. And—single.

Janine's POV:

"Wow. She's brand new but already acting like a princess meant for Jake. And she shows up now—just when I'm finally getting closer to Tita Carol?"

Narrator:

Truth be told, only Janine and Aya are still single in the group. Lyca, Krystel, Anna, Mica, and Maureen? All taken or in a mutual understanding with someone.

So Janine couldn't help but feel a little competitive—it's just a fandom, sure, but in her heart, it feels like there's something at stake.

Janine (Chat to Admin Rose, DM only):

"Mommy, are you sure Aya can handle the tasks? Will she even show up? She doesn't seem used to this kind of stuff."

Admin Rose:

"She's doing fine. Super cooperative, actually. Don't be too judgmental, sweetie 😂 If you want, just make sure you look your best and act natural in front of Tita Carol."

Janine:

"Hahaha! Just concerned, that's all. I'm just worried she might get tired easily. You know… not all fans are willing to go the extra mile. 😉"

Admin Rose:

"Anyway, I just realized—we might not be able to handle everything ourselves. We need to assign another Admin Assistant. I've got my hands full with my kids' school stuff."

Janine:

"Well, guest who? Who's your top pick for the role?"

Admin Rose:

"Lyca. But I know I'll have to convince her first."

Janine:

"Ayy, perfect! Let's go with Sister Lyca! I totally agree, Mii. I nominate Ate Lyca to handle the task."

Narrator:

And as September 10 draws closer, the surprise becomes clearer—Tita Carol, Jake's mother, is flying home for a one-month vacation in the Philippines. It's also confirmed that she'll be attending the fandom anniversary celebration, which will be held at MOA.

Admin Rose (Video Call Message):

"Janine, sweetie, it's confirmed. Tita Carol's arriving the first week of September. And yes, she's coming to our event!"

Janine:

"OMG. For real?! As in… Tita Carol herself? At the event?? 😳"

Admin Rose:

"Yes! And she's bringing her sister, Tita Sandy from Parañaque. But here's her request—don't announce it just yet. It's a surprise for the whole fandom."

Janine (smiling but deep in thought):

"Yes Mommy! Got it. It's a secret—and I'm seriously excited!"

(Janine's thoughts):

"But wait... what would her first impression of Aya be?

You're good, Aya.

But sorry—not everyone gets to be the second lead."

Narrator:

And that's where Janine's new train of thought began. She might not have told anyone in the group, but deep down… that's how she truly felt.

As the JakeFanatics anniversary drew nearer, the admins were already deep into preparations. The planning was serious—everything had to be smooth and unforgettable.

Beyond the excitement flooding the entire fandom, there was one huge secret the core team was keeping under wraps: Jake Reyes' very own mom, Tita Carol, was flying to the Philippines to join the celebration in person!

But… that info wasn't ready to be made public just yet.

And so, a private video call took place between Admin Rose and Lyca—with Co-admin Janine also there, quietly listening and looking a little restless.

---

[Video Call – Admins Only]

Admin Rose:

"Lyca, girl, honestly—we need you. Just the two of us admins aren't cutting it anymore. Especially now that we have a VIP guest coming to the event. You know who I'm talking about, right?"

Lyca:

"Hahaha, okay fine—I know! Don't worry, the secret's safe with me. I just landed back in the Philippines, and luckily, the events lined up with my month-long vacation."

Janine:

"Perfect timing. That's exactly why we thought of assigning this task to you. Plus, you secretly have access to both Jake and Tita Carol, right? So yeah, we finally decided."

Admin Rose:

"Exactly! That's why you're the perfect fit for assistant admin. Officially! Please say yes, Lyca. We need a strong core team, and I fully trust you."

Lyca:

"Wait—how did you even know that, Janine?! Haha you guys are something else. Alright, fine! I'm in! But on one condition… I don't want a full-blown role. Just support. Background mode, got it?"

Admin Rose:

"Noted! But you'll be the one to announce the anniversary event in the group GC, okay?"

Janine: (a bit shy but in a sweet tone)

"Okay then. Good luck to us. Let's make this exciting—especially the surprise elements. You know what I mean."

---

[JakeFanatics GC – Announcement]

Lyca:

" Heads up, Jakefanatics!,

Get ready because the JakeFanatics 4th Anniversary Celebration is happening on September 10, 2025 at the Mall of Asia!

Expect fun surprises, awesome giveaways, dinner night, and bonding time with your fellow fans!

Mark your calendars, besties! 

Stay tuned for hints and clues... you never know who might show up... "

---

Narrator:

And just like that, the GC exploded with noise. Everyone was screaming—virtually, of course. The kilig was too real!

There were wild guesses, emoji spam, and nonstop jokes about what if Jake actually shows up.

Hopes were high, and the fandom energy was off the charts.

But behind the excitement and chaos, a private one-on-one chat was quietly happening—between Lyca and Aya.

---

[Private Chat – Lyca & Aya]

Lyca:

"Girl, you slayed with Jake's reply to your comment the other day! You're officially a noticed girl now!"

Aya:

"Stop it, Sis! I'm already embarrassed! But like… was that really him? That was legit, right?"

Lyca:

"100% verified! That was definitely him.

Sooo… are you ready for what's coming next? I'm about to introduce you to someone soon… but we'll take it slow, no pressure."

Aya:

"Wait—who is it? Don't tell me it's—..."

Lyca:

"Still a secret for now. Just trust me, okay? No overthinking. Just… don't freak out when the Anniversary Day comes. 👀"

---

September 10, 2025 – Mall of Asia

JakeFanatics Fandom Anniversary Event Day

Narrator:

Aya woke up early that day, even though she barely had sleep from work the night before.

She still had a full shift ahead, but somehow, she felt lighter. Each step was quick, every move effortless—like she was floating with excitement. Time flew by at work, and her mind? It was already at the event happening later tonight.

Right after her shift, she rushed to the restroom to freshen up. Nothing fancy, just a touch of elegance. She wore a light purple dress with hints of silver lining that reached just below her knees—simple, stylish, and surprisingly on-theme with the fan group colors. She had forgotten her official fandom shirt in her morning rush, but somehow, her natural aura made up for it.

[Aya's POV]

"Hope I'm not late… but I feel like I might be the first one to arrive,"

she thought, laughing to herself while heading to the MOA event venue.

When she arrived, it was still early—but soon enough, the other members of JakeFanatics started to pour in. Dressed in their official fandom shirts, waving banners, holding fan-made merch, and rocking outfits in purple and silver—the fandom's signature colors.

The venue was a private function room at MOA. A stage was set up, a mini photo wall stood proudly, and a huge tarpaulin read:

"JakeFanatics 4th Anniversary – Stronger Than Ever!"

Everyone was buzzing with energy. One by one, fans introduced themselves, swapped fangirl stories, and posed for selfies at every corner.

And of course, the core team was there—Admin Rose, Janine, and their newly appointed assistant admin, Lyca.

Aya stood quietly in a corner, her eyes gleaming with a mix of nervousness and joy.

Even without saying a word, she already knew… tonight could change everything.

---

Aya (whispering to herself):

"Lyca, please reply… why are you taking so long…?"

Narrator:

But Lyca didn't respond right away—she was busy helping the admins organize the stage, the food, and the program flow.

---

[Narrator POV – Restroom Encounter Scene]

Still no reply… and now needing to pee, Aya headed to the restroom. She walked fast, her mind half-scattered.

On her way back—bam! She accidentally bumped into an older woman.

Aya (startled):

"Oh! I'm so sorry, I was rushing and—"

Woman (smiling gently):

"It's alright, dear. I was in a hurry too. Are you okay?"

Aya (a bit dazed):

"Ahmm… yes, ma'am,"

she replied softly, a little stunned.

Something about this woman… Aya couldn't explain it, but she felt a familiar warmth. Her soft features, the beige silk blouse paired with cream wide-leg pants—it all gave off such grace. She was beautiful, classy… and oddly enough, she resembled Jake?

The woman walked away, but Aya stayed frozen for a moment… like something about that bump still lingered.

Aya (to herself):

"Who was that? She looked… so familiar. Wait—could it be…?"

---

[Narrator POV – Friends Arrive]

Maureen (tapping Aya's shoulder):

"HEY! Why do you look like you've seen a ghost?"

Mica (laughing while holding her phone):

"Did you just have a miracle moment? Spill!"

Aya (clutching her chest, surprised):

"You guys are too much! I just… bumped into someone. She was gorgeous—like a movie star!"

They looked toward the hallway… but the woman was gone.

Her friends urged her to head back—the program was about to start. Aya told them about the mysterious lady as they made their way inside.

---

[Narrator POV – Back at the Venue]

The room had filled up. Lyca greeted them with a bright smile, walking up to meet Aya near the entrance.

Lyca (grinning):

"There you are! I've been looking for you! Come on, sit with me. It's about to start!"

Aya (smiling, still confused):

"Sure, Sis!… wow, this place is amazing."

---

[Narrator POV – Start of the Event]

The event kicked off with high energy—games, raffles, singing, and endless laughter. But the moment everyone had been waiting for? The special guest reveal.

Admin Rose (on stage):

"Good evening JakeFanatics fam! Let's give it up for our assistant admin, Lyca!" [applause]

"Tonight, we're celebrating our 4th year of love and support for Jake… and what's a celebration without some very special guests? Are you ready?!"

[Screams from the crowd]

Admin Rose:

"Let's welcome… Ms. Carol Reyes and Ms. Sandy Reyes!"

Two elegant women walked out on stage, and everyone held their breath.

Admin Rose:

"That's right! Tita Carol is Jake's mom, and with her is Tita Sandy—Jake's aunt."

Tita Carol:

"Good evening, everyone! Thank you for such a warm welcome. You're all amazing. I'm truly touched by your passion for my son."

Tita Sandy:

"And don't be shocked… because I'm now officially a fan too! You guys are seriously adorable!"

---

While Aya, Maureen, and Mica Talk:

Maureen (screaming):

"WAIT! Was that the woman you bumped into earlier, Aya?!"

Mica (stunned):

"Hold up—IS THAT TITA CAROL?! She's stunning!"

Aya's world froze. She couldn't move. It was her. The woman she bumped into in the hallway… was Jake's mom.

Aya (in disbelief):

"Oh my gosh… it was her… that explains the resemblance…"

Tita Carol (laughing on stage):

"Speaking of fans… earlier, someone accidentally bumped into me. She was nervous, sweet, and clearly starstruck. Turns out, that was… Aya! Where are you, dear?"

Everyone turned to look at Aya—thanks to her friends who wasted no time pointing at her.

Everyone:

"AYYYYYYYYYIEEEEEE!!!"

---

Narrator:

Aya was speechless. Frozen in her seat while the entire room pointed and squealed her name.

Maureen:

"Ayaaa! OMG! Your future mother-in-law just called you out!"

Mica:

"Girl, today is your destiny reveal hahaha!"

Anna:

"She's stuck! Someone push her—she's in shock!"

---

Admin Rose:

"And because this night keeps getting better… we've got one more surprise."

Suddenly, the lights dimmed. The projector on stage flickered to life.

---

[Jake on Live Video Call]

Jake:

"Hey guys! JakeFanatics! What's up, Philippines! I just wanna say thank you for always supporting me—even from across the world. You're not just fans… you're family.

Happy Anniversary—I love you all!" 

The crowd went wild. Screams. Tears. Kilig overload.

Jake:

"And I heard someone special is here today… someone who's been making waves in the fandom. We haven't met in person yet, but I've felt the love from afar…

Hello, Aya!"

---

Narrator:

The whole venue screamed. Her friends pushed her toward the stage.

Maureen:

"Go girl!! Don't be shy!"

Anna:

"Ayaaa! You're the one HAHA!"

Krystel:

"OMG, this is straight out of Just Another Girl In The Crowd! And Aya is our main character!"

Mica:

"I second that! Aya is the Queen tonight!"

Aya (nervous but brave):

"H-Hi Jake… thank you. You're amazing. I always listen to your cover of 'No One Else Comes Close'." 

Jake (smiling):

"Aww, thank you! That means a lot. That song? It's for people like you—who support with heart.

Hope to meet you in person soon, Aya."

---

[Backstage – Janine's POV]

Janine (to Admin Rose, a bit snarky):

"Seriously? She gets the spotlight? We've all been working our butts off."

Admin Rose (whispering):

"Let her have this moment, Janine. Your time will come. 😉"

Janine pouted, unable to do anything as the moment unfolded.

---

Narrator:

After the video ended, Tita Carol approached Aya.

Tita Carol:

"Aya, thank you for supporting Jake. You're such a sweet girl… you made tonight unforgettable."

Aya:

"You're very welcome, Tita…"

She was overwhelmed. A swirl of emotions hit her—shock, kilig, embarrassment, excitement, and pure happiness.

---

Lyca, Maureen, Krystel, Mica, Anna:

"We don't want anyone else… it's AyaReyes foreverrr!"

as they raised a banner that read: "Aya x Jake = 💙"

---

Narrator:

Aya—just a simple fangirl—was still in disbelief.

Somehow, the spotlight found its way to her in a room full of fans.

And that night, she felt like she wasn't just another face in the crowd.

She was someone special… in Jake's eyes, and in the entire JakeFanatics family.

---

Author's Note:

You be the judge… was this kilig, or TOO MUCH kilig? 

The CR bump, the surprise Tita Carol reveal, and 

Jake's LIVE INTERACTION—

And this? This is just the beginning.

Because Tita Carol's vacation in the Philippines won't just be about the fandom anniversary.

More things are about to unfold—shocking truths, unexpected visitors, and… someone from Jake's family entering the JakeFanatics world.

Who could it be?

Watch out for Chapter 6 — where the kilig turns into confusion, tension… and maybe something real.

Next Chapter: Birthday Celebration of Tita Carol (Jake's Mom)

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