This is a work of FICTION. All characters are used in FICTITIOUS manner
---
"W-What? Bakit? I mean, d-did I do something bad? S-something you didn't like? Have I said something you didn't want? Did I made you feel bad or offended you? Please tell me, I will change it immediately. Babaguhin ko kung ano man ang a-ayaw mo. Ititigil ko ang mga hindi mo m-magugustuhan." I saw him starting to cry.
"Huwag mo akong p-pasukuhin please. Nagsisimula palang akong l-lumaban eh."
"A-ayaw mo na ba sakin? Do you l-like someone else now? Ayaw mo na bang nagkakasama tayo? Nakukulitan ka na ba sakin? I will give you time and space if you want and need it. Just please. Irene, I told you I will wait for you even if I wait forever. Kahit na gaano pa yan katagal, I won't rush you. I will wait"
Oh.
Napamaang ako sa sunod-sunod niyang tanong. Hala ka.
Gusto kong matawa dahil punong-puno na naman ng luha ang mukha niya pero nanaig ang pagka-awa. Para siyang bata na hindi sinama sa mall.
I chuckled. "Ang dami mong sinabi. All I'm trying to say is that. It's time to mark this day as our memorable moment" I told him.
He gave me a confused look. "Huh? I don't unde---"
I cut him off, "You passed the test." I wiped all his tears with my hanky. "Let's end the waiting game" I sweetly smiled.
Napatayo siya kaya tumayo din ako. "R-really? Are we thinking the same thing?"
"Yes. To make it clear, kung hindi mo pa naintindihan, sinasagot na kita."
Sabi ko nga, 'wag na magpaligoy-ligoy sa susunod, straight to the point na nga next time!
I was shocked when he pulled me to a hug but then I can hear him crying again.
"Don't you want it?" I asked as I rub his back.
"Of course I do. I just really thought you didn't want me anymore."
"Stop crying then, will you?" I didn't mean to make him cry. Kanina lang ang kuya ko ang napa-iyak ko, ngayon naman, siya.
Nang kumalas siya ng yakap, tumakbo siya sa dalampasigan at nagsisigaw.
"Thank you Lord! Kami na ni Irene! Woohoo!"
I looked around and people who's just passing by are now looking at him. I went to him.
"Hey!" suway ko nang nakaka-agaw na kami ng atensiyon. "Huwag ka ngang sumigaw"
He suddenly cupped my face and calm down. "You made me the happiest man tonight. How can your simple yes make this night very special." he sighed. "God answered all my prayers, thank you."
"I love you" that's all I can say. I tiptoed to meet his lips which he responded immediately. We sealed this night with a kiss... this very special night.
"I love you more my love" he replied when our lips parted.
I sweetly smiled and then we shifted our gaze to the sea, holding each other's hand. Under these millions of stars and beautiful bright moon, I gave him my 'yes'. These celestial bodies witnessed this special moment.
"My Irene" he said and peaked at our hands intertwined together.
Eleventh of June, we became official. This day will forever be treasured.
We may just look and act like lovers these past few months, atleast now it's real. And now, with proper label.
"Let's go home?"
He looked at his wristwatch before nodding. "Sure. Baka mayari ako sa kuya mo" he chuckled.
We picked up our things before heading back to the car. On our way there, he pulled my waist closer to him and he keeps on smiling on everyone he sees. Then we passed by a balot vendor, he stopped.
"Magandang gabi 'Tay" bati niya rito.
"Magandang gabi naman hijo. Nais niyo bang bumili ng nobya mo?"
"Sige tay. Bibili kami ng nobya ko" ngiting-ngiting aniya at mas hinapit ako palapit. Ang kumag na to, oo. "Ganito na lang 'Tay, bibilhin ko na lahat para makauwi ka na."
"Naku, sigurado ka ba diyan hijo?" the vendor asked.
"Oo naman po, gabi na, para makapagpahinga na rin po kayo. Tsaka baka mapano kayo dito, wala pa man din kayong kasama."
My heart melted on what he said. I am just staring at him, watching his every move.
Ibinalot ni tatay ang mga balot saka ibinigay samin. "520 lahat hijo, 26 na balot"
Using his free hands, he took out his wallet from his pocket and gave a blue paper bill to tatay.
"Wala akong pang-barya hijo, wala ka bang mas maliit na pera diyan?"
"Don't worry tay, keep the change."
"Hindi ko na to tatanggihan ha. Maraming salamat talaga" he smiled widely and genuinely.
"Pano kayo makakauwi tay?" I asked. Baka mamaya malayo pa ang lalakarin niya.
"Mayroon akong padyak hija." turo niya sa bike na may sidecar. "Maraming-maraming salamat talaga sa inyo. Malaking tulong itong ginawa niyo. Pagpalain sana ng Diyos ang inyong relasyon."
"Maraming salamat din 'Tay, mag-iingat kayo pauwi. Mauna na po kami" paalam ni Greggy. I waved my hand and gave him a big smile.
After we bid our goodbyes, Greggy opened the car door for me and we're ready to go.
While on the road, he keeps on glancing at me then he will bite his lower lip to hide his smile.
"What now?" I asked him.
"Wala. K-kinikilig lang ako." he said. His cheeks even turned red like a tomato.
Gregorio III? Kinikilig? Cute.
"You're blushing love."
"I know. P-please don't tease me, it keeps on getting worse." he uttered and bit his lip.
I immediately took my phone out and took him a photo.
"Come on, stop it."
"Alright, I'll stop" I said and put my phone back in the bag. Bakas na ang hiya sa mukha niya kaya tumigil na ako.
When we arrived at the mansion, he assisted me to get down from the car. "Careful love" he even said as if I am as fragile as a glass.
I am holding the flower he gave me earlier and also my bag; and he is holding the paper and a plastic bag where the foods are.
I was a bit shocked when I saw my brother waiting at the front door. Nakapameywang pa.
"Past ten na." he said.
Agad kong kinuha ang plastic ng balot kay Greggy at ibinigay sa kapatid ko. "Ano 'to?"
"Balot, malamang" pabalang kong sagot.
"I know. Aanhin ko 'to?"
"Upuan mo, baka sakaling mapisa." I answered but was taken back when he threw a death glare to me. "I'm just kidding."
"Why did you bought so many?"
"Tanungin mo 'to, pinakyaw lahat ng tinda ni tatay" nguso ko kay Greggy.
"I was just happy and overwhelmed earlier, kaya ayan, binili ko lahat."
"May I ask why you're happy?"
Chismoso talaga to.
"Sinagot na ako ni Irene eh." he proudly uttered.
"She did?" gulat siyang napabaling ng tingin sakin.
"What? Aren't you happy?" I'm confused.
"Masaya ako sa relasyon ko ngayon. Sa akin ba nakasalalay ang kasiyahan ng relasyon niyo? Iaasa niyo pa ba sakin?" pamimilosopo niya.
Now it's my turn to glare at him.
"Kidding aside, of course I'm happy, because you're happy." he added and leaned for a hug.
"Wala ka munang sasabihin, naiintindihan mo?" pagbabanta ko.
"Sure, sure" sagot niya. But I saw his smirk which I doubt he'll keep his mouth shut. "Tara na sa loob"
I saw them on the sala. They are watching tv, except for Liza whose I think reading cases again.
"Mommy" bati ko at humalik sa pisngi niya.
Nilapag ni Greggy ang mga napamili namin kanina. Kuya Bongbong went to the kitchen to transfer the balot to a bowl and get some salt and vinegar.
He then put it in the table. "Liza may balot" tawag niya sa asawa niya.
"Really? Wow, I've been craving for this" she stopped what she's doing and went closer to us and she immediately dig in.
Tuwang-tuwa ang dalawang buntis. Si Borgy naman, ang mga gummy foods ang pinuntirya.
"Tita, may I sleep here tonight?" dinig kong paalam ni Greggy
"Sure, I don't see why not" sagot ni Mommy.
Nakuha mo pang magpaalam, parang first time ha.
"Mommy I'll just go change in my room" paalam ko at tumayo na. I felt Greggy following me.
Hindi pa man ako nakakarating sa gitna ng hagdan, narinig kong nagsalita si Kuya.
"Mommy do you know someone who has a boyfriend right now?" I heard Kuya Bongbong.
Napatigil ako sa sinabi niya. I can literally feel their stares right now. I can't really make this guy's mouth shut.
"Irene," nagpintig ang tenga ko nang marinig ko ang pangalan ko. "Can you come here for a second anak" Mommy said after a couple of seconds.
Mariin akong napapikit. I heaved a deep sigh, trying to calm myself before I turned to where they are.
Sa pagbaba ko, nadaanan ko si Greggy. He held my shoulders and gave me a smile.
Nang nakalapit na ako ng husto, sumenyas siyang umupo ako sa tabi niya kaya sumunod ako. Kuya Bongbong is literally in front of me, enjoying eating balot. For the second time, I threw a death glare to him, but he just laughed.
"Is there something you want to tell us?"
"Like w-what mommy?"
"I don't know. Something about your status right now perhaps?" Mommy said and glanced at Greggy. "Don't you have plans telling us about it? Remember, we don't keep secrets from each other, anak" may otoridad sa boses niya.
"S-sasabihin ko naman mommy... Pero pinangunahan ako ng isa diyan" I looked at my brother and rolled my eyes.
"You should thank me ading ko, I did you a little favor. I bet you didn't know how will you tell us" then he sips the soup of the egg.
"Jusko tay ading ko adda geyyem nan, baka damdama agasawan" (Jusko ang ading ko may boyfriend na, baka mamaya mag-asawa na) Manang dramatically said.
"Stop it Imee" suway sa kanya ni Mommy.
Wait, is she mad? She sounded mad.
"Mommy--"
"I am happy. Genuinely happy for you right now. I've been praying for your happiness anak ko. That's all I want for you and your siblings." a tear escaped my eye from hearing that from my mommy.
Napahinga ako ng maluwag sa sinabi niya. "I thought you were mad"
"Why will I be mad? Kung ayoko sana na magka-boyfriend ka anak, edi sana hindi ka na namin pinaligawan"
Good point.
She cupped my face and wipe my tears. Then she looked at Greggy. "All I am asking right now from you, young man, is that, never hurt my daughter and never make her cry. My husband, his father will haunt you, I swear."
Young man daw.
"Kapag talaga sinaktan mo si Irene, malalagot ka samin, diba Bonget." sabi naman ni Manang.
"Talaga. Might as well use the skills I learned from military trainings back then." banta naman nitong isa.
"I-I will do everything I can to not hurt her po."
"Good. You may go now" ani Mommy.
"You know what, how about you give us a strand of your hair and a picture of you. One by one will do." pagsasalita na naman ni manang.
"Aanhin mo yon?" I asked.
"Alisto nak met laeng a kasarsarita ading ko. Nu makitak nga agsangit ka gapu kanyana, mangsapul nak sigud ti mangkukulam" (Madali lang naman akong kausap ading ko. Kapag nakita kong umiyak ka dahil sa kanya, hahanap ako agad ng mangkukulam) she smirked.
I took a glance at Greggy and I saw him gulped. I know he didn't understand it but I can feel that he knows the last word manang said.
Kuya Bongbong laughed so did Liza and Kuya Tommy. Mommy just smilingly shook his head.
I stood up and looked at my siblings. They gave me a teasing smile again! As I walked, I passed by where my brother is. Before I can totally pass by him, I pulled his hair.
"Irene!"
I grabbed Greggy's hand and ran upstairs. I still heard my brother calling my name but I ignored it.
When we reached my room, there I burst into laughter. Napahiga siya sa kama kaya dumiretso ako sa closet para magpalit.
Pagbalik ko, nakapalit na din siya. That fast? Or am I just slow? He's talking to someone on his phone so he didn't notice me.
"Three meetings?" I heard him sighed. "Alright. Cancel all of them. I have to do something important tomorrow." he said and ended the call.
"Love" tawag niya sakin nang makitang nasa hamba ako ng pintuan. He tapped his side motioning me to go near him.
"Hindi ka papasok bukas?" I asked as soon as I sat beside him.
He just shook his head and reached for my hands.
"Why? May pupuntahan ka ba?"
"No. I want to be with you. Tinatamad akong pumasok" pagbusangot niya.
"Tinatamad? At anong gagawin natin maghapon? Tutunganga? Pumasok ka. I heard you have three meetings."
"They can wait." he uttered and pulled me to a hug. Pero bago pa man niya ako mahila, itinulak ko siya.
"Gregorio magta-trabaho ka o hihiwalayan kita?"
I know the company needs him right now. Kaliwa't kanang meetings ang isinasagawa para sa paglago ng kumpanya. He can't just sit here and relax.
"Love, wag namang ganyan. Oo na, papasok ako bukas" he defeatedly said.
"Call Josh and tell him to uncancel your meetings" I kept my serious tone and face.
He took his phone out and pressed a couple of times before putting it to his ear.
"Hello, Josh. Do not cancel my meetings. Papasok na pala ako." he said and dropped the call immediately. Then he faced me, "Happy?"
I nodded and hugged him. He sighed once again so I looked at him. Is he mad? Or disappointed maybe?
"I'll come and see you in your office tomorrow. I'll cook your lunch." sabi ko, pampa-lubag loob.
A smile was flastered on his face. "Really?"
"Yeah. What do you want?"
"You" Kaya naman kinurot ko ang tiyan niya. "Aray! Joke lang" he laughingly said. "Anything will do. Hindi naman ako mapili basta luto mo."
"Alright then."
I closed my eyes when I felt his hands brushing my hair. It felt so good and he's also humming. Hindi ko namalayan na nahila na pala ako ng antok.
---
I woke up the next morning without Greggy beside me already. I saw him fixing his tie frustatingly. He's wearing a three-piece suit and all ready for work.
"You need help?"
Nilingon niya ako at nagliwanag ang mukha niya. He walked near me and bowed a little to give me a kiss.
"Good morning love. Nauna na akong kumain. Sorry I didn't wake you up. Himbing ng tulog mo eh."
"It's okay." I looked at the wall clock and he's running late. Hinila ko siya palapit para maayos ko ang tie niya.
I mastered fixing a tie because when Daddy is still here, I often tie his necktie.
"All done" I told him and evem patted his chest.
"Thank you love. Don't forget to eat your breakfast." then he went to get his bag. "I'll leave now. See you later. I love you" he uttered and walked away.
"Bye"
"I love you Irene" he stopped on my door and looked back at me.
"Okay"
"I said I love you Irene" he said and went near.
"I heard it."
He glared at me before sitting at the edge of my bed. I couldn't hold my laughter anymore so I crawled until I reached him and cupped his face. I planted kisses on his cheeks then his lips.
"I love you." I wholeheartedly said, I'm just an inch away from his face.
"Hoy! Umagang-umaga, tigilan niyo ako ha." nakakunot na noo na sabi ni manang.
She's outside my door, dahil nga binuksan ito ni Greggy kanina, kitang-kita dito sa loob. Baka pababa na siya at madadaanan at madadaanan niya ang kwarto ko.
Her eyes are still glaring at us so I immediately let Greggy away. "Go now. You're late."
He kissed my temple once again before heading out. Paside pa siyang lumabas dahil nass pintuan lang si Manang. 'Tong babaeng 'to talaga.
"Tara na. Gutom na ako" she said.
"Mauna ka na. I'll just brush my teeth."
"Kitam. Makibin-binnisong ka, di ka pay gayam naka-brush. Eww." (See. Nakikipag-halikan ka, di ka pa pala naka-brush.) she made a disgusted look.
I grabbed the nearest pillow and throw it to her. "Dijay ka man!" (Doon ka na nga!) asik ko.
"Mandik. Kayat ko agsabay ta" (Ayoko. Gusto kong sabay tayo.) pinulot niya ang unan gamit ang paa niya dahil hindi siya makaka-yuko gawa ng lumalaki nang tiyan niya. Ibinato niya ito pabalik sakin.
She went inside my room and sniffed. "Infairness, your room smells good eventhough there's a man here. Ana ti bangbanglom? Jusko dijay kwartok puro Tommy ti maang-angot ko, nakabang-bangsit met maulaw nak pay nuka." (Anong pabango ang gamit mo? Jusko sa kwarto ko puro Tommy ang naaamoy ko, napaka-baho naman nahihilo pa ako minsan.) reklamo niya.
"I'm still using the same perfume I'm using before, I didn't change. Wait, aren't you the one who gave your husband the perfume he's using now? You chose that perfume, I was with you when you bought it. Up until now, that's what he's using, now you're complaining?"
"Ako? Well that doesn't matter now. Ang baho talaga. His smell is invading my room. Parang gusto ko dito matulog" paglapit niya sa kama ko at humiga.
"Bahala ka nga." Tumayo ako at pumunta sa banyo para maghilamos.
"Let's go. I'm hungry" I told her when I went out. "Hindi ka ba papasok?" I asked as we went down the stairs.
"Haan, nasakit ti ulo'k, kasla ak lang pay aggurigor" (Hindi, masakit ang ulo ko, parang nilalagnat din ako)
Nang makababa kami, si Mommy at Borgy na lang ang naabutan namin sa hapag. "There you are. Halina kayo at kumain."
"Nakatalaw da aminen?" (Nakaalis na silang lahat?) I asked.
"Wen. Rumwar nak met damdama, adda lang papanak a importante" (Oo. Lalabas din ako mamaya, may pupuntahan lang akong importante) Mommy said. Then she motioned the food, "Mangan kayon" (Kumain na kayo.)
Hindi rin nagtagal at tumayo na siya para maghanda. Naiwan kaming tatlo dito.
When we're done eating, I carried Borgy to the garden while his mother take her medicines. Athena, Hera and Apollo came to us the moment they saw me so I let them play with Borgy.
"What do you want for lunch?" I asked Manang when she came to us.
"Wow, I'll get to eat your food again? Gusto ko ng pork caldereta, chopsuey, and i also feel like eating chicken marengo."
That's a lot. Let me see what I can do.
Nang mag-alas dyis na, pumasok na ako sa loob para magluto. Sumunod pa sila Manang dahil gusto niya daw tumulong.
Patyek met!
"Maupo ka na lang kasi!" suway ko nang marinig kong panay ang pag-daing niya at nahihilo daw siya.
Ako ang kinakabahan dito!
"Itulog mo yan or iligo mo. Para mahimasmasan naman yang ulo mo"
Thankfully she did what I told her. She also brought Borgy with her so she can also bath him.
After more than two hours, I'm done. Para akong nakipagbakbakan dito sa kusina.
"Are you hungry? Do you want to eat now?" I asked Manang when they came down.
"With the smell of the food, yes, let's eat. Kanina pa ako natatakam sa amoy nila."
"Are you feeling well now?"
"A lot better than earlier" she smiled.
Magana siyang kumain at tinitingnan ko lang siya. I just ate a small serving of the carbonara because I will also eat in Greggy's office, sasaluhan ko siya. Sinaluhan ko lang si Manang dahil wala siyang kasama, nakaka-awa naman.
"Try that squash soup. I made that all for you."
"Yan lang ba ang kakainin mo?"
"Ah, yeah. Dadalhan ko ng lunch si Gregorio. I promised him last night."
"Gaga ka. Kaya pala bigla ka na lang nag-luto. Kung hindi ka nagpromise sa kanya edi hindi ko matitikman ang luto mo." she chuckled.
"You can take Borgy if you want" she added.
"Are you sure?"
"Oo. Itutulog ko mamaya, baka hindi yan antukin, hindi ko mababantayan. His yaya took a leave, no one will watch over him"
"Sige. Pero paano ka?"
"Anong pano ako? Matutulog nga ako 'di ba."
"I mean, you'll be here alone, well aside from the maids and guards"
"Mommy texted me and she'll be home soon. Same as Bongbong and Liza, maaga daw silang uuwi. See, may kasama ako mamaya. Nothing to worry about."
"Okay. I'll just go prepare what to bring."
"Go, I'll just eat here."
I packed the foods in a container. Dinamihan ko since medyo naparami ako ng luto. Alam kong sobra tong dadalhin ko pero hayaan na.
"Maliligo lang ako saglit" paalam ko.
I saw her nodding but she's still focused on her plate.
I went to my room and took a quick shower. Did my usual routines and picked what to wear.
I ended up wearing a buttoned front croptop blouse and its coordinate skirt. Then I paired it with a cute flat shoes.
Before going down, I went to Manang's room to get Borgy clothes. I got him a shirt and above the knee length short. I also got his favorite shoes and also a hand towel for his back.
Naabutan ko sila sa sala. I immediately went to Borgy to change his clothes. Tuwang-tuwa pa nang malamang pupuntahan namin si Greggy.
When it's done, I put the foods on the backseat of my car first before getting Borgy.
"Call me if you need anything or when you feel something weird or painful. Pinagbilin na kita kila Nanay Lita" I told her, referring to our mayordoma. "Ask for their help and assistance immediately."
"Oo na. Daming sinasabi. Doon na garud" pagtataboy niya. "Pakainin mo ulit si Borgy pag gusto pa niyang kumain."
"Manang, 'wag matigas ang ulo ha"
"Oo nga, kulit. Hoy Celestina ayusin mo pagmamaneho mo ha, kasama mo ang anak ko. Ingatan mo yan, malilintikan ka talaga sakin"
Mukha bang may balak akong saktan tong pamangkin ko?
"We'll go now. Mga bilin ko ha"
She didn't talk and just nodded. I opened the passenger's seat and secured Borgy's seatbelt. Then I went in the driver's seat.
I rolled down the window to say goodbye to Manang whose still at the door.
"Babye Mommy!" Borgy waved his little hand.
I pressed the horns once then drove away. I didn't text him anymore because I was irritated by the traffic since it's lunchtime.
When we arrived, I parked my car, get the food and also Borgy. Mabuti na lang at hindi siya nagpakarga dahil hindi ko alam kung paano ko dadalhin ang mga ito.
The guards greeted us. Pati na rin ang mga nakasalubong naming tao. We entered the elevator that Greggy usually use. We arrived on his floor in no time.
Nauna nang lumabas si Borgy at dali-daling itinulak ang pinto sa opisina ni Greggy.
"Good afternoon Ms. Irene. Sir Greggy is waiting for you" bungad ni Josh. "He kept on asking me kung wala ka pa, kinakabahan po ata kung hindi kayo pupunta" he chuckled.
"Here," I gave him one tupperware. "That's for you"
"Ay hala. You didn't have to po Ms. Irene."
"Sige na. Papasok na ako."
"Thank you po Ms. Irene" he said.
I opened the door only to see Borgy on his lap. They have this bright smile on their faces.
"Kanina pa kita hinihintay. I'll just finish this this then we'll eat" aniya.
I gave him a nod. "Borgy get down so Tito can do his work"
"No" the kid said.
Greggy looked at me, "He can stay, hindi naman siya malikot."
K.
Pumunta na lang ako sa isa pa niyang mesa at nilapag doon ang mga pagkain.
When boredom striked, I took my phone out and play with it.
Narinig ko ang pagsara ng ballpen at kaluskos ng papel pero hindi ko sila tiningnan. "Tito, magwiwi" sabi ni Borgy.
"Come here, let's go" ani Greggy then I heard a door opened.
After a few seconds, I felt someone placed their chin on my shoulders. I already know who it was by his smell.
"Where's Borgy?"
"Umiihi pa. I told him to call me once he's done." he said and move his face closer to my neck. "You smell good."
"Hmm-mm"
"Titow Greggy!" we heard Borgy.
"Oh, titow daw. Puntahan mo na" I laughed.
Kamot-ulo siyang pumunta sa loob. When they came back, we started eating.
We were disrupted when the door opened. "Ate Irene!" I heard Gwen's voice.
"Hon I told you, Irene is here. And look, there's Borgy" ani isang ginang. It's Tita Emma.
"Are we interrupting?" Tito Luisito said.
"Kinda" sabi ni Greggy kaya sinipa ko ang paa niya sa ilalim ng mesa at sinamaan ng tingin. "Why are you all here?" pagpapatuloy niya.
"Nakarating sa amin ang magandang balita. We wanted to congratulate you personally."
"Huh?"
"We are so happy for you son. Be good to her." his dad tapped his shoulders.
"How? I mean..." then she looked at his sister. "Gwen?"
"Ate Liza texted me last night, hindi ko naman alam na nasa likod ko si mommy, nakikibasa. Ayun." she defended herself. "She immediately called Tita Leanah, Tita Nympha and some of our relatives."
Our relationship is spreading like a wildfire. Geez.
We looked at Tita Emma and she raised her hand, giving us a peace sign. "I was just too happy and excited."
It happened already, we can't do anything about it anymore.
"Join us po" I told them.
"Naku hindi na, aanyayahan rin sana namin kayong mag-lunch sa labas pero kumakain na pala kayo."
"I brought a lot of foods Tita, hindi namin to mauubos lahat."
That's true. Napadami ang luto ko kaya dinamihan ko ang kinuha ko.
I looked at them and gave them a genuine smile.
"Okay lang ba?" she asked again.
"Syempre naman po. Here," I pulled a seat for them.
"Halika na Mommy, bawal tanggihan ang grasya. Mas masarap ang luto ni Ate Irene kaysa sa labas" ani Gwen at nilagpasan ang ina at umupo sa tabi ko.
Mahaba-haba ang mesa kaya kakasya kami. I looked at Greggy and he seem to look like he doesn't want his family here.
"Ayaw mo ba?" I whispered at him.
"Medyo?" he said.
"For sure they'll just stay for lunch. Hayaan mo na, minsan lang to. Act nicely, 'kay?"
"Okay love" he said and continued his food.
"This really taste good. My son is lucky to have a girlfriend like you." I heard Tito Luisito said. "Siguradong busog ka lagi Gregorio"
"Yes Dad. Busog na busog hindi lang sa pagkain kundi pati na rin sa pagmamahal" he even winked at me.
Siraulo.
We talked more about our lives until we're done eating. Then I remembered the chiffon cake. I stood up to get it.
"Meron pa?" Tita Emma said.
"For dessert po."
I took my phone out and composed a message to Manang.
Irene:
I made a Taisan. I forgot to tell you, it's in the fridge.
12:36 pm
Not long enough, she replied.
Manang Imee:
Yeah. Liza found it, paubos na.
12:37 pm
Agad-agad? Grabe tong mga to.
Irene:
Mag-tira kayo kay Mommy.
12:37 pm
Manang Imee:
Kasama naming kumakain, she ate a lot, don't worry.
12:38 pm
Hindi na ako nagreply at itinuon na lang ang atensyon sa pagkain.
I looked at everyone and they are enjoying digging in the food. When we're done, they helped to fix everything then they decided to go home.
"Mauna na kami. Thank you for the food Irene. It was divine."
"Thankyou Tita" ani ko at bumeso.
"Do you want to come Gwen?" Greggy suddenly asked.
"Saan?"
"We'll go to the Ocean Park later, do you want to come?"
"Tatlo kayo?"
Greggy nodded. Aalis kami? Hindi ako na-inform.
Akala ko magdadala lang ako ng lunch?
"Sure. So I'll stay here din?" she asked.
"If you want to."
"Mommy kayo na lang ang umuwi, sasama ako kila Kuya" Gwen told their parents.
"Look over Borgy, ihahatid lang namin sila Mommy sa labas." Greggy said and he held my hand.
Sabay kaming lumabas. We bid goodbyes and watch them until the elevator closed.
"Aalis pala tayo?"
"Yeah. Maaga akong maga-out. I'm done for today's work. Actually pwede na tayong umalis pero mamaya na lang."
We went back inside and saw Gwen and Borgy playing with each other.
"Pinasama ko si Gwen para may mag-alaga kay Borgy mamaya" Greggy uttered.
Magaling.
"Are you two sleepy?" he asked.
"I think he's kinda sleepy. Can we use your room? Parang inaantok din ako. We kids need to recharge" Gwen laughed.
"Go. Dalhin mo na si Borgy." he said and sat on the sofa.
When they're gone, he pulled me to sat on his lap. He encircled both of his arms on my waist. I can feel him planting kisses on my nape.
"Inaantok ka rin ba?"
"Not really. But I want to rest for a while. I got tired from cooking."
"Thank you"
"For?"
"For exerting an effort to cook my lunch."
"I'm your girlfriend and it's my duty to take care of you."
A smile flashed on his face. "My girlfriend. I like that"
"Sige na, gusto mo na lahat" we both chuckled.
"Anong oras tayo aalis?"
"Maybe two or past two."
We stayed like that for an hour. We were startled when we heard a loud noise coming from the room.
"I'll go check on them" paalam ko at tumayo na.
When I opened the door, I found them laughing, facing the tv screen. Ang water bottle pala ang kumalabog kanina, nahulog.
Akala ko ba inaantok ang dalawang to? Bakit parang punong-puno pa ang energy nila hanggang ngayon.
They're watching a cartoons again. I walked near them to picked up the water bottle. I took a photo of them and sent it to Manang. I let her know that Borgy will be with us in the Ocean Park. I didn't get a reply, probably she's sleeping by now.
"We'll leave any minute now" I told them.
"Sige Ate, just call us when we'll go." Gwen answered.
I left the room and went back outside. "What happened?" Greggy asked.
"Nahulog yung water bottle ni Borgy. They're watching. Baka nasipa nila kanina"
"They're not sleeping?"
I shookt my head. "Gising na gising nga eh"
"I'll just arrange my things then we'll leave" he said and stood up.
"We'll use my car." I told him. Ayokong iniiwan ang sasakyan ko, di bale nang gamitin ng gamitin wag lang iwanan sa labas na malayo sakin.
"Basta I'll drive" he said and fixed the papers on his table.
Tumango ako at pinuntahan ang dalawa. "Come here na," anyaya ko sa kanila.
Gwen turned the tv off before assisting Borgy to get down from the bed, then they went outside.
"Let's go" Greggy
I grabbed my bag then we head out. He stopped in front of Josh's table.
"Get the paper bag on the table inside and put it in my car when you'll leave. I'll contact one of the drivers to get my car later, give my key to him once he get in here." pagbilin niya at ibinigay ang susi.
"Noted Sir. Ingat po kayo"
We went inside the lift and head down. Nang marating namin ang sasakyan ko, binuksan niya ang backseat para pumasok ang mga bata bago binuksan ang passenger's seat para sakin. Pagtapos ay umikot siya para pumasok sa driver's seat at ini-start ang kotse.
Nakarating kami agad sa Quirino Grandstand kung nasaan ang Manila Ocean Park. Borgy excitedly ran so Gwen immediately followed her.
"Buti na lang andito si Gwen."
"Told you we can have her to look over the kid so you won't get tired" he said as we walk towards the ticket booth.
He purchased four ticket for us. After that, we already went inside.
We went to see first the Jellyfish Exhibits. Those jellies are worth to watch, they have an explicit beauty.
After that, we went to the stingrays. Then the Trip to Antarctica. We decided to go to the Oceanarium first before having our snack.
This place is amazing! Of course, hindi mawawala ang picture. Every good angle I see, I take photos of them.
"Come here Irene, kanina ka pa kumukuha ng picture. Gwen can you please take us a picture." Greggy asked.
"Sure." kinuha niya muna si Borgy at ang cellphone sakin.
I stood beside Greggy and held my hand. Gwen also took out her phone to take us a picture using it.
"Borgy come here" I said and he came. We took another picture with him.
"Tama na, parang ang dami mo nang kinuha," reklamo ni Greggy. "You even use your phone."
"Ibebenta ko to sa mga media para may mailapag silang recent pictures niyo" she chuckled.
"Ano kami, artista?"
"Kidding. You look cute kaya pinicturan ko."
When we're done in the Oceanarium, we went outside.
"Irene! Ang laki na ng mga anak niyo" I heard someone. I looked around and saw Small with her husband.
"Stop it Small. Naririnig ka ng mga tao" sita ko sa kanya.
Tinawanan niya lang ako at bahagyang umupo para magpantay sila ni Borgy.
"Saan kayo?" she asked.
"Hahanap ng makakainan" I said.
"Ay kakatapos lang namin. We'll go ahead, maglilibot pa kami." paalam niya. Bumeso pa siya sakin bago kumaway paalis.
While walking, we passed by a sealion show and Borgy badly wants to see the show.
Until he began to cry. Nakailang beses na akong nagsabi na hindi pwede dahil maaaring mabasa kami doon at wala kaming pamalit.
"Hey, Borgy. We'll watch after eating okay. Aren't you hungry?" pagsingit ni Greggy.
"Hungry po" he sniffed.
"We'll eat first then we'll watch it. Okay po ba yun?" pagkausap niya po.
"Okay po"
"We might get wet" I told Greggy
"I'll make sure we will not. Medyo malayo sa tubig ang uupuan natin don't worry"
Tumango na lang ako. Do I have a choice? Paniguradong iiyak na naman si Borgy kapag hindi napagbigyan.
When we found a place to eat, we ordered so we can go back immediately. Ang bilis pang kumain ni Borgy, he's too excited.
Iyon nga ang ginawa namin. After eating, we watched the show. The sealions showed off some tricks. Borgy being a kid, he looks so happy.
When it's done, naglibot lang ulit kami. "Love I want to experience that" turo ni Greggy sa Fish Spa.
"Me too Kuya" pagsang-ayon ni Gwen. Pati na rin si Borgy gusto rin daw.
I gulped as I imagined fishes on my feet. I never liked the idea of having fish spa because I feel like they will eat my feet.
"K-kayo na lang siguro"
Alam kong nasense ni Greggy ang takot ko. Pero buong akala ko ay hahayaan niya ako, hindi pala.
"Come on. Don't be such a KJ. Tayong lahat dapat. Diba Gwen? Diba Borgy?" naghanap pa ng kakampi.
"Let's go Tita." pag-anyaya ni Borgy.
"It will not be that scary ate. They will just nibble off dead skin cells from the feet, that's it." pagkumbinsi pa ni Gwen.
Because I spaced out, naramdaman ko na lang na hinihila na ako papasok. They let us sit beside a pool with small fishes. Until the staff told us to soaked our feet now.
The three immediately did that but I was still hesitating. Paulit-ulit akong lumunok bago unti-unting binaba ang paa ko sa tubig.
I am biting my lower lip to stop myself from screaming. I just felt Greggy intertwined our hands together. Lowkey saying that it's okay.
I felt relief with that. Minsan nakukurot ko siya kapag nakakaramdam ako ng kiliti. But he seem okay with it.
I looked at Borgy and Gwen and they are enjoying it. Tawa pa sila ng tawa.
After the spa, I realized that it was not that bad. Medyo gumaan pa ang pakiramdam ng paa ko.
Nilibot pa namin ang buonh Manila Ocean Park bago nagsdesisyong umuwi. Madilim na nang lumabas kami.
Sa restau na lang din ni Amber kami nagdinner. And after that, we went home.
Bakas ang saya sa mukha nila lalo na si Borgy dahil nakakita siya ng iba't-ibang creatures. Such as stingrays, jellyfish, different kinds of fishes, sharks, turtles, sealion, and even penguin.
Madami na namang ikwekwento to sa nanay niya pag-uwi.
Tahimik ang biyahe, nilingon ko sila sa likod at nakitang tulog na sila.
"You can sleep if you want. Gisingin na lang kita mamaya pag nakarating tayo" Greggy offered.
"Hindi na, hindi pa naman ako inaantok. Sa bahay na lang matulog si Gwen." I told him
When we arrived at home, ginising ni Greggy ang kapatid niya. I carried Borgy inside and Greggy get my bag.
Naabutan namin silang patapos na kumain. "Hindi ba kayo kakain?" Mommy asked.
"Tapos na mommy. We ate outside." I said. Nagpaalam akong sa sala lang kami.
Nilapag ko si Borgy sa sofa at umakyat para magpalit ng damit. I also prepared clothes I can lend Gwen. I just placed it on top of the bed of the guest room before going back downstairs.
Pagbaba ko, nasa sala na silang lahat, gising na rin si Borgy at tama nga ako, nagkwekwento na.
"And mommy, we also went to a pool full of fishes then we put our feet inside. Tita was afraid but Borgy isn't mommy. I'm brave diba mommy?"
At a very young age, he's already talkative.
"Yes you are. Your Tita is duwag ba anak?" panggagatong pa ni Manang.
Umupo ako sa tabi ni Gregorio na ngumingisi.
"Opo. I also saw she is holding on to Titow Greggy very tight Lola" bumaling naman siya kay mommy. "Look at his arms, full of bruises"
Napatingin naman ako doon, may mga nagsugat sa mga kinurot ko. I looked at him and gave him an apologetic smile. But he just nodded.
"I'm not hurt kiddo. But yeah, you were so brave earlier unlike someone..."
Sinamaan ko siya ng tingin. Kanina lang nagui-guilty ako sa pagkurot ko, bwisit na to.
"Awan, inabak na ka ta ubing" (Wala, tinalo ka ng bata) bulong ng katabi ko. It's no other than my brother. Agad kong sinipa ang paa niya. "Aray!"
We all stayed like that, listen to Borgy's story. This kid never runs out a topic.
I looked around. I am surounded by people who loves me and whom I truly love. My family isn't perfect but I am contented for who they really are, then here comes this man who accept and love everything about me.
I am very thankful that I am blessed with this kind of people.
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