The Touch of Eternal Sorrow (Altarieno Series #3)

Chapter 11

Chapter 11

Abstract things are the most broad concept in this world. It takes a different interpretation from each of us and compile it into a general term just to form the most stereotypical conclusion ever.

Pero isa lang ang sigurado.

There's still a word that we can all agree upon about its meaning.

"Seriously? How is Lolo dying?"

We got kicked out. Me and my cousins stayed on the rooftop unwillingly—as if we are not grownups who can comprehend big matters.

"Nag-iiyakan kaya sila?"

"Bet you not." Umirap si Tori. "They're stones. They only cry if things go wrong with the businesses and stuff."

"You mean, cry due to frustration?"

"Exactly." We chorused.

"I don't get it. Why are we even here?" Scott was irritated. Palibhasa ay wala si Arin. Nakatulog kaya't dinala sa kwarto. Binabantayan ng kaniyang acting mother.

Nagkibit-balikat ako.

"Probably because... we are too young to talk about inheritance?"

"Anong inheritance?" Inosenteng tanong ni Leigh. "Should they be talking about Lolo's decision? His hospice care! I am very concerned..."

She bit her lip at nag-iwas ng tingin. Kahit ilang taon pa yata ang lumipas, mas prominent pa rin ang soft thoughts niya.

Napakislot siya.

"Who agrees that Lolo should receive continuous treatment?"

Nagtaas kaming lahat ng kamay.

"See? I can't believe this!"

"Well... kahit gaano ka-thoughtless ang mga beliefs ni Lolo sa buhay, he still brought a change. That's non-negotiable." Shara said.

Vance scoffed. "Can't argue more."

"Let's not talk about that. My god, na-s-stress ako!" Tori sighed out loud. For god's sake, she's always so dramatic. "What are you guys up to now? I can hardly talk to you."

"I do buy and sell." Anang kapatid ko.

Tori's mouth widened. "Really? What do you sell? Didn't know you're into business."

"Weeds." Ngumisi ito. Natawa ang lahat maliban sa amin ni Tori.

What the hell...

"Ugh! What am I even expecting!"

"Yeah, seriously. Will you stop talking about drugs?" Iritable kong sabi. "Everyone keeps on saying that. It's creeping me out."

"Ganiyan talaga ang environment ng isang adik. You'll never realize until you become one."

"What?!" Asik ko.

"Sungit ni Rhys!" Si Shara. "Alam mo, I noticed, ha! You're never joking anymore! Anong nangyari sa'yo? Masiyado ka nang naging boomer!"

"Boomer my face." Pabalang kong sagot. "I'm just getting mature. Kayo kasi, tumatanda nang paurong. I'm superior."

Scott laughed. "Saan? Sa pagiging KJ?"

"Sa pagiging bayolente. Want to taste my knuckles?"

"Woah!"

Napailing na lang ako.

Someday, my goofy side will rise again. And they should be prepared enough dahil araw-araw ko talaga silang iinisin.

"But seryoso, I miss you, guys..." Malambing na sabi pa ni Shara. "Should we set a date so we can have a meal together? Ang tagal na nating hindi nagkasama-sama!"