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Everyone led busy lives, including Greggy and Irene, each carrying their share of responsibilities. Their daughter Yara was no exception, as she navigated her school life and extracurricular activities. Today, Yara had plans to spend time with her brothers
Yara awaited Alfonso's arrival, who was picking her up for an afternoon visit to Luis's place before their mom and sister's dinner at Eduardo's, conveniently located near their house.
Alfonso: *cheerfully* How's it going, Ara?
Yara: *smiling* I'm good, Ahia. How's Tita Joy doing with Andy?
Alfonso: *content* They're bonding before Joy leaves for her international trip.
Yara: She's the only person I know who's so ready for it. I can't help but feel sad thinking about the day...
Alfonso: *comforting* I understand, Shob. Thanks for being there for Andy when we can't.
Yara: *nodding* Of course, Ahia.
In an attempt to lift the mood, Alfonso, a passionate equestrian, extended an invitation to Yara for some horseback riding.
Alfonso: *enthusiastically* Ara, have you ever considered trying horseback riding with me?
Yara: *contemplating* Horseback riding? Well, some friends are into it. It does seem interesting. I remember trying it with Dad twice or thrice. It was fun, but I think it's not my thing, Ahia.
Alfonso: *enthusiastic* It's not just an activity; it's a fantastic way to relax and connect with nature. I've been riding for a while now again, and it's been such a great escape. "Not your thing"? You're actually quite good at it!
Yara: *smiling* I've seen you enjoy it. Maybe I should give it another shot sometime. But, only if Mom allows us, of course. *giggling*
Alfonso: *excited* That's the spirit! We'll talk to Dad about it and plan a day. It'll be a refreshing change from our daily routines.
Yara: I agree, Ahia. Let's plan something fun, and I promise not to be too scared of the horses. *laughing*
Alfonso: *teasingly* I bet the horses will adore you. They might even prefer you over me! *laughs, pats Yara's back*
Upon reaching their destination, Yara's bodyguards discreetly trailed them, ensuring their safety. They arrived at Luis's place, they were greeted warmly by the kids. Luis offered them seats, and Xandra graciously shared her famous Pinkerton ice cream, a crowd-pleaser.
Amid sibling chit-chat about businesses, family, friends, and playful teasing, Yara shared a school-related cute story.
Yara: *sitting with her siblings* Hey, guys, want to hear something interesting that happened at school today?
Luis: *grinning* Let me guess, Yara. Another secret admirer left you a love letter?
Alfonso: *teasingly* Or maybe someone serenaded you during lunch break?
Xandra: *joining in while scooping the ice cream* Seriously, sweetheart, you're like the girl crush of the entire school. It's all anyone talks about!
Yara: *rolling her eyes playfully* Come on, you guys. It's not that big of a deal.
Luis: *teasing* "Not a big deal"? You practically have a fan club following you around!
Alfonso: *smirking* Tell us, Yara, is there a secret boyfriend you're not telling us about?
Xandra: *playfully* Yeah, spill the beans, sweetheart. We won't tell anyone... except maybe the entire school already knows!
Yara: *laughing* Alright, alright. No secret boyfriend. Just a bunch of friends. You guys are impossible!
Alfonso: *grinning* You know, Ara, if you keep getting all this attention, I might have to tell Mom and Dad about your secret admirers.
Yara: *alarmed* Ahia, don't you dare! They'll never let me live it down!
The teasing continued, with Alfonso playfully threatening to disclose Yara's secret to their parents.
Yara: *smiling* Alright, enough about my love life or lack thereof. So, speaking of surprises, something interesting happened at school today nga!
Luis: *curious* Oh? Do tell, Shob.
Alfonso: *leaning in* Intrigue at school? Now, this I want to hear.
Yara: Okay, okay. So, I was at my locker between classes, right? And when I opened it, I found a bouquet of beautiful flowers, a box of chocolates, and a love letter!
Luis: *raising an eyebrow* Seriously? That's like a classic teenage move!
Alfonso: *smirking* Yara, did you just forget to mention this secret admirer of yours?
Xandra: Yeah, who's the mystery person?
Yara: I wish I knew! The letter just said, "To the most amazing person in school, your smile brightens my day. From your secret admirer."
Alfonso: *teasing* And you said there's no secret boyfriend. This sounds like a secret admirer
Xandra: *excited* Come on, sweetheart, you've got to have some suspects in mind!
Yara: *shrugging* Honestly, I have no idea. It could be anyone. Maybe it's just a friend trying to make me smile.
Luis: Well, whoever it is, they sure know how to make a grand gesture.
Alfonso: *grinning* Yara, this is the kind of stuff you should tell Mom and Dad about. They'll love the mystery.
Xandra: Yeah, and maybe they'll have some detective advice!
Yara: *laughing* Oh, no, not yet but I will! Let's just enjoy the mystery for now. It's kind of fun not knowing.
Alfonso: *stroking an imaginary beard* We'll have to vet this admirer thoroughly.
Xandra: *winking* Background checks, interviews, the whole shebang!
Yara: *joking* Alright, alright, you've got me. Maybe I'll just let this secret admirer remain a mystery for a little longer.
Luis: *smirking* That's what we thought! You're too young!
Alfonso: *grinning* We're just looking out for you, Shob. We can't have any mystery admirers causing trouble.
Xandra: *serious* And if they want to date our little sister, they'll have to go through the three of us first!
Yara: *laughing* Thanks, guys. I feel very protected. But seriously, it's just a cute gesture, nothing serious, and I know I am still your little sister after all. No need for a full-blown investigation!
Their banter continued as they enjoyed Xandra's ice cream. However, as they heard the sound of their mom approaching, their teasing and jokes started to fade. The moment Irene entered, she wore a knowing smile, as if she had overheard some of their conversation.
Alfonso: *suddenly changing the subject* So, Shobe, have you decided on your major for college yet?
Yara: *catching on* Oh, right. I've been thinking about it, but I'm still not sure. Maybe something related to business or...
The siblings exchanged amused glances, realizing that Irene was in on the joke. Irene played along, adding to the fun atmosphere.
Irene: Oh, I see. Well, I'm here to whisk my lovely daughter away for dinner. Shall we go, Yara?
Yara: *smiling* Of course, Mom. Let's go.
As they walked toward the car, the siblings couldn't help but exchange a few more knowing looks, silently sharing the lighthearted moment when their mom surprised them with her quick arrival, adding a touch of humor to their evening.
Alfonso, Luis, and Xandra couldn't resist sharing a few more playful remarks with their sister.
Alfonso: *grinning* You know, Mom seems well-informed about our "casual chat." Maybe she's secretly our mystery detective.
Yara: *wide-eyed* Ahia Fons!
Irene: Oh, what if I've been moonlighting as a detective, investigating all your secrets?
Yara: *laughing* I should have known better than to think anything stays secret in this family.
Luis: *chuckling* That's the Araneta charm for you, Yara. We have no secrets from each other or Mom, it seems.
Xandra: *winking* Just remember, sweetheart, when it comes to secrets, we're a team. No one can outwit the Araneta siblings.
Irene: *smiling* And that's what makes you all so special. Now, hop in, my dear. Dinner at Eduardo's awaits. We'll see all of you in a few days.
As they drove to their destination, Irene and Yara settled into the car for their journey to dinner. There was a brief moment of silence. Irene, perceptive as ever, sensed there was more to the conversation her children had been having earlier.
Irene: *softly* My love, I couldn't help but notice that your brothers and sister were teasing you about something. What was it that you were talking about with them?
Yara: *shy, hesitating at first* Well, Mom, it's not a big deal. They were just teasing me about a... well, someone left me a bouquet, chocolates, and a love letter at my locker today.
Irene's reaction was a mix of surprise and sadness, though she tried her best to hide it. Her little girl was growing up, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern and nostalgia.
Irene: *softly* That's quite a gesture, Yara. You never mentioned this before. How do you feel about it?
Yara: *shyly* Honestly, Mama, I don't know how to feel. It's sweet, but also a little overwhelming. I mean, I'm not even sure who it's from.
Irene: *with a warm smile* Sweetheart, I understand. These things can be confusing sometimes. And it's not surprising that someone would be drawn to you. It's all part of growing up, experiencing these feelings and gestures.
Yara: *feeling reassured* Thanks, Mom. I just didn't want to make a big deal out of it and what your reactions will be
Irene: *softly* You don't have to worry about it, little girl. Just take your time to figure things out. It's fun at times!
Irene offered her daughter advice on handling such situations with grace and kindness, as Irene recognized the beauty and charm her daughter possessed and wanted to ensure Yara felt comfortable navigating the complexities of growing up.
Irene, always understanding her daughter's need for reassurance, decided to share a little secret of her own to lighten the mood and show Yara that she had been in similar situations before.
Irene: *gently* Honey, I want you to know that I'm not mad or upset about this. It's a part of life, and I trust you to handle it with maturity. In fact, when I was around your age, I had a secret admirer too.
Yara: *surprised* Really, Mom? You had a secret admirer?
Irene: *with a mischievous grin* Oh, yes! It was a bit like a teenage movie. There was this boy in my class who used to leave little notes in my locker. He would write poems and leave them for me to find.
Yara: *intrigued* That sounds sweet, Mom. Did you ever find out who it was?
Irene: Eventually, yes. It turned out to be a boy named Miguel. We became close friends, and for a while, I thought he might be the one.
Yara: *wide-eyed* Really? Tito Miguel? What happened?
Irene: *smiling* Well, life has its own plans, sweetheart. Years later, I met Greggy and realized that sometimes, destiny has a funny way of working things out.
Yara: *reflecting* So, even if Dad wasn't your secret admirer, you still found love with Dad?
Irene: *nodding* Exactly, little girl. Life has its twists and turns, but in the end, we find the people who are meant to be in our lives. Just like you will, whether it's your secret admirer or someone else.
Yara: *smiling* Thanks for sharing that story, Mom. It's comforting to know that even if things don't go as planned, they can still turn out beautifully.
Irene: *with a warm smile* You're welcome, my girl. Remember, I'm here for you through all of life's little adventures. Know that you can always tell everything to Mommy.
Yara: *grateful* Will note that Mom, but really, no one beats you and Dad's love story, Mama!
Their conversation continued in a lighthearted and comforting tone, with Irene's story serving as a reminder to Yara that life's surprises can lead to unexpected and beautiful outcomes. As Irene and Yara continued their conversation, the atmosphere in the car remained warm and filled with affection.
Irene: *softly* You know, sweet girl, the important thing is to cherish these moments of innocence and the little surprises that life throws our way. It's all a part of growing up, no need to be scared
Yara: *thoughtfully* I understand, Mom. It's just... I guess I'm not used to all this attention. It's a bit overwhelming.
Irene: *reassuringly* I know, my love. But remember, these gestures are a reflection of the wonderful person you are. Embrace them with grace and kindness.
Yara: *smiling* Thanks for understanding, Mom. I'm lucky to have you as my mom.
Irene: *with a loving smile* And I'm lucky to have you as my daughter. Just promise me one thing...
Yara: *curious* What is it, Mom?
Irene: *playfully* When you find out who this secret admirer is, be sure to tell me all about it. I'm dying to know who's been capturing my daughter's heart.
Yara: *blushing* Mommy, you're embarrassing me!
Irene: *laughing* That's my job as a mom, isn't it? To embarrass you from time to time.
Their laughter filled the car as they pulled up to Eduardo's, ready for a delightful dinner. The evening air was warm and inviting as they stepped out of the car. Alice greeted them with a welcoming smile, inside the atmosphere was lively.
The tables were adorned with different food, and the chatter of diners filled the air. Irene and Yara were welcomed with warm embraces from the rest of the titas, who were already seated and engaged in conversations.
Michelle: *enthusiastically* Irene, Yara, it's so lovely to see you both! How's everything going?
Irene: *warmly* It's great to see you all too. Advance Happy birthday Chelly! We've been keeping busy with stuff and school for Yara, but we're excited to catch up!
Yara: *warm hugs,beso* Happy birthday Auntie Chelly, a birthday present for you!
Michelle: Oh wow, how sweet you are, baby. Thank you!
Small: *lively, curiously* My dear inaanak, how's school? Is anything exciting happening lately?
Yara: *smiling,beso* Well, you know, the usual school stuff, Tita Small.
Irene: *teasing* But something interesting did happen today. *whispering* She got a bouquet!
Audrey: *intrigued,beso* A bouquet? Yara, that's quite unusual! Do tell us more. Are there any secret admirers in the picture?
Yara: It's a bit of a mystery right now, Tita Auds. The note just said it was from a secret admirer.
Anna: *raising an eyebrow, beso* A secret admirer? How exciting! Any guesses on who it might be?
Yara: None at all! It could be anyone, Titas.
Their laughter echoed through the room as they continued to exchange humorous remarks and stories, creating a wonderfully light and joyful atmosphere for their gathering.
Dawn: *leaning in with a mischievous grin* Yara, dear, you can't just leave us hanging with this secret admirer story. We need more details! What kind of flowers were in the bouquet?
Yara: *laughing* Well, they were a mix of roses and daisies, and they smelled amazing.
Mia: *teasingly* Roses and daisies? That sounds romantic. Maybe it's someone from your school's gardening club.
Yara: *laughing* You never know, Tita Mia. It could be!
Kathy: *joking* Or perhaps it's the school's resident poet, composing sonnets for our Yara!
Yara: *giggling* Oh, Tita Kathy, you're too funny!
As the titas and Yara enjoyed their playful banter, Irene and Alice found themselves in the dining area, preparing the food that was already set out, and sharing their thoughts.
Alice: Where did the time go? Look at your only daughter now; she has admirers.
Irene: Yes, Alice, I can't help but feel a bit melancholic. We can't stop them from growing up, but she's still my baby to me. *wearing a sad expression*
Kaye: *curiously* Irene, what do you think about all this? Do you have any motherly insights?
Irene: *smiling* Well, I trust Yara to handle these things and It's all part of growing up, right? But, at the same time, we mothers would like to keep them forever.
Alice: *nodding* That's true. Adolescence is such an interesting time, but we have this mix of excitement and sadness.
Small: What's more, next year they'll be in college; I'm getting emotional just thinking about it. Will Yara study abroad, Irene?
Irene: She mentioned some schools abroad Small and I am so scared of the idea, but we haven't talked it out. Thinking of it makes me want to hold onto my daughter tightly.
Dawn: I know the feeling, Irene. I can't help but think that my Jacobo will be in college next year too.
Alice: Did they already take entrance exams for the schools they're interested in?
Small: I believe Allison has finished, but we'll have to wait until next year for the results since it's a new school year.
Irene: I think so, and most of the students have made their school choices, right, Dawn?
Dawn: Yes! Our ISM babies are graduating next year; it's hard to believe. Time flies!
The Titas had already occupied the table, setting up the cake to sing an advance birthday song for Michelle's birthday. They positioned Irene next to Alice to ensure she would be captured in the pictures and videos, thanks to Yara's persuasion for her mom to join the frame.
As they sang and Michelle attempted to off the candle, Irene tried to teach her cousin by simply clapping it out, and Yara giggled, watching her mom act like it was her birthday.
Irene: *teaching Michelle how to off the candle* Just clap it out like this, Chelly.
As soon as Irene sat back down next to Yara...
Yara: Mama, it's not like it's your birthday tonight *giggling*
Irene: Oh, I was just teaching Chelly, honey.
Yara: You're so funny, Mom. It's like you're disappointed because it didn't go out as what you wanted it to be *shows the video*
Irene laughed and they all enjoyed their dinner and had a great chat with all the titas present that evening. Afterward, they had some drinks and, as the night came to a close, they decided it was time to head home.
Irene and Yara were among the last to leave since Alice's house was conveniently close to theirs, and they were waiting for Greggy to come pick them up.
~to be continued~