~~
Today, Irene and her friends eagerly set out for their long-overdue visit to Joel's place in Lipa Batangas, a plan that had been brewing since before the pandemic. It was a cherished opportunity to reconnect with their group of friends.
Before setting off, Irene gently approached her daughter, a warm smile on her face
Irene: *tenderly* Sweetie, are you certain you won't come along with Mom? *bunny smile*
Yara: *nodding* Yes, mama. The girls are excited about our get-together and there's some shopping on the agenda too.
Irene: *soft kiss on Yara's cheek* Alright, my love. Have a wonderful time with your friends. Don't forget to update me, okay?
Yara: I promise, Mom. Have a blast with your friends too. I love you, Mama.
Irene: And I love you more than words can say, my darling.
With a final embrace, Irene left early, bidding goodbye to Greggy and Yara, eager to make the most of their precious time with her friends on this day trip.
Yara didn't accompany her mom as she had plans to spend time with her friends—it was Saturday, after all. She had received permission from her parents, and with her bodyguards in tow, they could ensure her safety.
As Yara met up with her friends in Makati, they suddenly decided to go elsewhere, as the city was bustling, and they wanted to unwind in a quieter place.
~Yara talking to Greggy on the phone~
Greggy: Have you tried reaching out to your mommy for permission?
Yara: I tried to call Mom, but she's not picking up the phone. Please Dad, can you allow me? Besides, it's Misha's place.
Greggy: That's quite a long drive, hija. Who will you be with?
Yara: Aton will be with me too. Tita Small has already given her approval. Please, dad? *pleading*
Greggy: Alright, my bear. Keep me updated and send a message to your mommy, the signal might be pretty bad there.
Yara: *jumps for joy* So that means I can go!? Thank you, Daddy! I owe you today. I love you, dad!
Greggy: Daddy loves you too, hija. Please be extra cautious, or we'll face your mommy's wrath.
Yara: I will! Thank you again, Dad!
Yara was overjoyed that her dad granted her permission. Since Irene hadn't responded to Yara's calls and texts, Yara and her friends hastily chose their outfits at the mall and set off for La Union to enjoy some time at her friend's beach house.
~~
Irene relished her brief but delightful trip with friends, exploring organic food and indulging in impromptu plant shopping.
As noon approached, she noticed a string of missed calls from Yara. Her attempts to call back went unanswered. When she reached out to Greggy, he was in a business meeting
"What's the fuss, Irene? Let's take a picture first before digging in!"
Irene: *posed for the camera* Well, my little girl was trying to reach me, but I didn't pick up.
"Let your girl enjoy with her friends, girl!"
Irene: I don't know, I get super uneasy when I don't see her.
Irene's heart pounding with a mix of worry and anticipation. However, her attempts to reach her daughter were met with silence, leaving a lingering unease in the pit of her stomach.
"You're such a momma to your daughter."
"The mom mode, being away from her unica hija"
"Well, you're really lucky there, Irene! You're so close!"
"Almost every time you go out, she's with you."
"I can't blame Irene that Yara is everything to her"
Irene: I agree with all of you, I love my girl so much! I guess my world just revolves around that kid.
"Well, she's the little Irene of yours"
"Just yours, Irene!"
Irene: *calling Yara* I tried several times, but it didn't work. Gosh, I'm worried.
Irene couldn't shake off her growing worry. As they sat down to eat, she absentmindedly pushed the food around her plate.
"Are you alright, Irene? You seem a bit off,"
Irene *forced a smile* I can't help it, I'm just really worried about Yara. She's never been this out of reach before.
Her friends exchanged sympathetic glances.
"Maybe she's just caught up in the moment, Irene. You know how kids can be"
Irene: *eyes flickered with concern* I know, but she usually keeps me updated. It's not like her to be so elusive.
The conversation continued, they went from one place to another, but Irene's mind was elsewhere. She couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right. She excused herself to try calling Yara again.
No answer.
The worry intensified, Irene texted her daughter, her messages growing more urgent with each attempt. Back at her group, Irene's friends exchanged worried looks, recognizing the depth of her concern.
~~
As the hours ticked by, Irene's worry deepened into a gnawing anxiety. It felt like an eternity since she last heard from her daughter. Every ring of her phone sent her heart racing, only to be met with disappointment as the calls went unanswered.
Irene called their house, but Yara hadn't arrived yet. She also tried reaching out to the security, but there was no answer. She felt a sense of impending collapse, the fear of the unknown tightening its grip.
As she desperately called out to her husband, Greggy, only to be met with the endless drone of his ongoing meetings, Irene's panic intensified. She couldn't shake the feeling of helplessness, trapped in a world where time seemed to stand still.
Ditta's concerned touch brought her back to the present, but Irene's distress was palpable.
"Ok, ka lang ba? Am sure safe naman yung daughter mo"
Irene: The worries kept growing in me for hours now, Ditta.
The words of her friends offered some solace, urging Irene to take a moment of respite.
"Calm down, Irene. Try calling your house, maybe she went home and dozed off"
"How about Yara's security?"
Irene's frustration spilled out, a mix of fear and exasperation.
Irene: I already did call everyone! *frustrated* But no one was answering me about where my daughter is! *voice cracking* My daughter isn't home, my husband's not answering, security isn't responding to me.
Alex's attempt to reassure Irene only served to amplify her agitation.
"Maybe she was having fun with her friends, Irene."
Irene: I am so frustrated right now, Alex. I couldn't get to hold where my girl was.
Irene's POV
My goodness, where is my daughter!? I feel like I might collapse any moment now, my mind racing with worry about where she could be. It's been, what, five hours since she last called me, and I can't even get through to her. I've been trying to reach my husband, but he's still stuck in his meetings. Oh dear, I'm at a loss. I must look like a frantic woman right now.
The turmoil within Irene was evident, a mother's worry etched deep into every word and gesture.
~~
Yara and her friends arrived in La Union, warmly welcomed by the household staff. They then made their way to the yacht, a thoughtful arrangement by her friend's parents, where a lavish spread awaited them. They explored the beach, engaged in lively conversations while wading in the water, and captured numerous memorable moments in photographs.
However, amid her enjoyment, Yara realized she had left her phone back at Misha's house.
Yara: Misha, I think I left my phone at your house. Can you please check for me?
Allison: I'll try calling it, V! *unsuccessful* It's not ringing. Could it be the signal?
Mira: Perhaps your phone ran out of battery, Alana.
Yara: Oh gosh, that's possible! I think my phone's battery died.
Misha: I just radioed Yaya, she found your phone, Via, but unfortunately, she can't charge it.
Yara: That's alright, but my mom might try to call me back soon.
Allison: How can we get in touch with Tita Irene? The signal isn't great here.
Yara: *hopeful* "Maybe my dad already talked to Mom and let her know we're here. *fingers crossed* I hope.
Belle: You'll be safe here, Lana. Look, you have your security detail with you.
Yara: That's what I thought too. I'll message Mom once we set off from the yacht.
They continued their conversations, exploring the sea, indulging in more swimming, and capturing even more photos from the yacht for their dump accounts and VSCO updates, for sure.
~~
Irene tried reaching out to Greggy once more, hoping for a lifeline, but there was still no answer. Finally, just as Irene's concern was about to reach its peak, her phone chimed with a call from Greggy. Relief washed over her as she answered...
Her eyes welled up with tears, her voice trembling as she heard her husband's voice.
Greggy: *voice was calm but serious* I just finished my meeting, honey.
Irene: *a sound of relief, wiping her tears* Greggy, thank goodness! Have you heard from our daughter? I feel like I'm going out of my mind here, honey. Did she call you?
Greggy: Yara's in La Union with her friends, honey.
Irene: *heart skipped a beat* La Union? Why all of a sudden? Why didn't she tell me?
Greggy: She did, but it seems the messages and calls didn't get through to you.
Irene's anxious query echoed in her mind, a relentless refrain born from her deep-seated worry. Perhaps out of her concern for her daughter, the frustration compelled her to keep repeating herself.
Greggy: Irene, honey, please try to calm down. Yara's safe, okay? Signals in those areas can be tricky. She's with her friends and they're having a good time.
Irene: *frustrated and near tears* I know, but I couldn't reach her. I've been worried sick. She should've waited for me to answer back.
Greggy understood Irene's feelings all too well and...
Greggy: *gentle* Irene, sweetheart, she's growing up. She wanted to experience this on her own. We have to trust her.
Irene: *voice cracking* I understand, darling, but she's still my little girl. I just want to make sure she's okay.
Greggy: And she is, Irene. She's with friends, in a safe place. She'll be fine.
Irene couldn't shake the whirlwind of emotions that gripped her. She was grateful Yara was safe, but the worry still clung to her like a heavy cloak.
Greggy: Irene, honey, it's not all the time that we can keep our daughter forever, It's a part of growing up and we slowly need to be used to that.
Irene: *nodding, sadly agrees* I know that, honey. But I am not ready just yet.
Greggy: *showing empathy towards Irene* Would you like me to come get you? So you can have some time to calm down, at least?
Irene: I'll be alright, my love. Thank you for being so caring, dear. I'll find my peace once Yara calls. Please go back to your meetings.
Greggy: I understand, honey. I love you, and please, try to find some calm, alright?
Irene: I'll do my best. I'll see you later, my love. I love you. Thank you.
As Irene hung up the phone, a whirlwind of emotions swept over her. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Yara.
"Mama, I'm so sorry, my phone died. We're at a beach house in La Union. Just got off from the yacht. Hope you are enjoying it there as well. Everything's okay, I promise. Love you, mommy!" - Yara
As Irene read Yara's message, a mixture of relief and concern washed over her. She quickly dialed Yara's number, her heart pounding in her chest. To her surprise, the call went through.
~Yara answered Irene's call~
Irene: Yara, sweetheart, hello?
Yara: Mama! *voice came through*
Irene couldn't help but let out a chunk relieved sigh and longed to hear her daughter's voice, to know she was alright.
Irene: *relieved* Oh, thank goodness you're okay, darling. I was so worried.
Yara: I'm sorry, Mom. But I asked Dad's permission instead, because you weren't picking up your phone.
Irene: At least message me instead. I've been on edge since a while ago...
Yara: I did, I even tried calling your friends but didn't get any response as well.
Even though Irene was deeply concerned, she made an effort to calm herself and let Yara explain, not wanting to burst her daughter's happy bubbles.
Irene: Oh, my little girl, I'm just so relieved to hear your voice. I couldn't bear the worry. You really should have reached out.
Yara: I know, Mama. I should have, and I'm truly sorry. It's just... I thought maybe Dad would have better luck reaching you.
Irene: Sweetheart, you must understand, when it comes to you, my heart can be a little... overprotective. But still, you should've messaged me. I've been on pins and needles, you know.
Yara: I do, Mama. And you're right, I should've thought of that. I'm sorry. I even tried reaching out to uncles and aunts you're with, thinking maybe they could answer.
Irene: *softening* It's alright, my love. I'm just thankful you're safe. But why didn't you pick up when I called you back?
Yara: Mama, I didn't have a choice. My phone was on its last leg, and I forgot, I left it at Misha's house unintentionally.
Irene: *taking a deep breath* I understand, sweetheart. I just want you to be safe and sound. I love you so much.
Yara: I love you too, Mama. We're having an amazing time here. I promise to keep you updated since we have a better signal. You don't need to worry too much.
Irene: I'll always worry, my love. But I trust you. Enjoy every moment, but please, stay safe.
As they spoke, Irene's worry began to ebb, replaced by a profound sense during their conversation, Irene couldn't shake the thought of bringing Yara home immediately.
Irene: Sweet girl, darling, would you like me to arrange a lift to bring you back? I can be there in no time *concern still evident in her voice*
Yara: *chuckled softly* Mom, that's sweet of you, but we're safe here. I promise to keep in touch, okay?
Irene let out a sigh, realizing that Yara was growing up and needed space to explore the world. As Irene hung up, she felt a mix of emotions. Her daughter was growing into an independent young woman, and Irene knew she had to learn to let go, even if it meant moments of worry like this.
~~
Then, Yara sensed her mom's deep concern. Yara knew that Irene was carefully holding back her emotions, concealing her worries and frustrations, all to avoid dampening her daughter's day.
Eventually, Yara decided to call her again.
~Yara on the phone with Irene~
Yara: Mom, I can tell you're worried. I know you're just trying to keep it together for my sake. But I've thought about it, and I want to come home. Maybe we can look into that airlift option?
Irene: *with relief, surprised* Oh, little girl, you have no idea how relieved I am to hear you say that. I'll look into the airlift right away. I just want you to be safe, that's all. Thank you for understanding, your clingy mommy.
Yara: Of course, Mom. I love you. I'll wait for your update.
Irene quickly sprang into action and wasted no time. Finding an airlift that would bring her to Yara's location in no time, found an available and rushed to Yara's location.
~~
True to her word, Irene arrived promptly, welcomed warmly by Yara's friends. Yara hugged her mother and held her hand.
Irene: Hey there, girls. Thank you for taking care of my girl and keeping her happy and safe today.
Allison: Thank you too, Tita Irene, for allowing V to join us.
Mira: It's wonderful to finally meet you, Ms.
Belle: Yara told us so much about you, Tita. We must say you are your daughter's inspiration
Misha: We're really happy that Via came here just for the day. Thank you, Tita.
Irene: Thank you, girls! You should come over to our house sometime so we can extend the warm welcome.
Yara bid farewell to her friends, knowing they would see each other in a school setting for Monday classes. They headed to the lift, on their way home. It would be best if they were in Manila before nightfall, or even better, already at home.
As they took off, Irene turned to Yara, her face a mix of curiosity and relief.
Irene: So, what made you change your mind, little girl?
Yara: My friends decided to stay overnight, and I didn't bring any overnight stuff. Plus, I asked for permission just for today, not to stay overnight. You know me, I like to stick to my boundaries.
Irene: *grinning* Well, you've always known what's best for you, my love.
Yara: And also, I was missing you and Dad like crazy. *imitating Irene's voice*
Irene couldn't help but laugh at Yara's quip. Of course, being a close-knit mother and daughter, they spent the helicopter ride wrapped in each other's embrace.
Yara: Mama, thank you for today. I know I may have made your day frustrating.
Irene: It's all good now, darling. I'm just at ease now that you're beside me.
As the helicopter touched down, Irene and Yara were greeted by the warm embrace of Greggy, wrapping them in a sense of security.
That evening, in the cozy living room bathed in a soft, golden glow, the Araneta family gathered together. They shared stories, laughter, and the simple joy of being reunited. It was in these moments, surrounded by the ones they loved most, that the day's adventures felt like distant echoes.
As the night settled in, Irene and Greggy exchanged glances, a silent acknowledgment of the shared worry that would always linger in a parent's heart.
Greggy: *chuckles* Well, my dear, it was quite the dramatic entrance. You outdid yourself all the time.
Irene: Oh come on, my Greggy. Our daughter needed a lift. Plus, it made me smile picking her up after hours of worrying.
Greggy: I'm not saying it wasn't a grand gesture. You just have this way of being so wonderfully motherly. It's one of the things I love most about you.
Irene: *blushing* Stop it, you.
Greggy: No, really. Yara's lucky to have a mom like you. You make every moment unforgettable.
Irene: You're biased, you know that?
Greggy: Maybe a little, but it's true. You have a heart that's boundless when it comes to our children.
Irene: And you have a way of making me feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
They share a sweet moment, wrapped in the warmth of their affection for each other and the knowledge that their family is bound by a love that knows no bounds.
Yet, in that moment, it was a reminder that no matter how old Yara grew, she would always be Irene's precious child. Gratitude, love, and a lingering worry reminded her just how much her daughter meant to her.
~end~