I gave the ringside tickets to the event marshall as my whole family (Dad, Kuya Liam, Ate Pauline, Dylan) watches DLSU VS ATENEO for the second time this season. I am so fucking nervous not only because my Dad surprisingly agreed to watch a basketball game with me to support my boyfriend but because alam ko kung gaano ka-pressured si Ricci right now. Naging bitter ang pagkatalo nila the last time, plus mali ata na nabanggit ko sa kanya na manonood ang buong pamilya ko today.
-
"Fuck, tangina naman. Anong nakain ng Daddy mo at naisipan manood? Of all days, Marq. Ngayon pa talagang kinakabahan ako kasi Ateneo 'to. What did you say was your Dad's alumna school again?"
"Ateneo."
"Fuck! Tangina! Seryoso papakamatay na lang ako. Kalaban pa namin school nya. Kakatayin ako ng buhay nun! Baka ipadala ka sa Mars nun pag tinalo namin sila and tuluyan nang mag break tayo."
I controlled my laughter. If not for his cute voice on the other line, baka mag-worry at maniwala na rin ako sa mga out of this world and praning ideas nya.
"Ano ka ba babe, you're overthinking again. Si Dad nga yung may gusto panoorin ka e. Sabi nya, he heard from his colleague daw na magaling kang player so he thought why not, diba? Babe, that means he's liking you already. And besides, too late na rin para paghiwalayin nya tayo, dontchuthink? Kung gusto nya tayo magkahiwalay, sana nung umpisa pa lang ginawa na nya."
Just like he did before, right? Do you guys remember?! Lol those were the days...
He sighed. "Kahit na. What if I fuck up my game? Siyempre iba pa rin yung support nya sa alumni nya. Mas lalo lang sa akin mag-iinit yun. Fuck babe, seryoso. Magpa-injure na lang kaya ako sa training mamaya para di ako makalaro? Sobrang kinakabahan talaga ako, putangina."
Hay nako. Naiinis na ako. Bakit ba sobrang baba ng tingin nya sa sarili nya? He's being ridiculous!
"Ricci, anong injury? Sobrang praning mo na, naka-shrooms ka ba ngayon?! How many times do I have to repeat that Dad won't make an effort to even talk about you if he doesn't fucking like you? What more watch you in a game? Ako nga rin nagulat eh. Di ko akalain na ganon kalaki ang tiwala nya sa'yo para paglaananan ng oras. So please, if that doesn't make you feel relieved then babe naman, kahit para sakin na lang. Calm down."
He got quiet on the other line. "Okay fine, I'll try to calm down. Sorry, babe ah. I just can't help but ma-praning when it comes to your Dad. Whenever I see him parang I always want to prove to him that I deserve his daughter – that I deserve you at gaya ng sabi nya the last time, na hindi ka nagkamali sa pagpili sa akin. I know you just recently reconciled at ayokong dahil sa akin, ma-bad shot ka at tuluyan na kayong maging malayo sa isa't isa. Yun lang naman ikinaka-worry ko."
I am so speechless. Akala ko typical millenial boyfriend lang si Ricci na duwag sa tatay ng girlfriend nya but turns out, it has more deeper meaning in it – and it's about me. I am in a poodle of goo and lost for words right now.
"Aww bunny! I didn't know you had it like that. Akala ko takot ka lang talaga. Hay. Love mo nga talaga ako," I softly cooed and how I wish I was with him right now to give him at least an appreciation kiss.
"Babe naman, wag ka na mang-asar. Kinakabahan talaga ako. Ikaw na muna bahala sa akin pag di nya nagustuhan laro ko ah,"
I laughed but gave him an assurance. "Bunny, kahit bangko at maka-0 points ka man, ikaw pa rin ang MVP para sa akin."
-
"Hi Tito! Buti po nakapunta kayo! Sana po mag-enjoy kayo!" bati ni Alexa when we see her at one of the doors going inside MOA Arena. She does have an idea that my father and I already reconciled, pero bakas pa rin sa boses at mukha ni Alexa na kinakabahan pa rin siya whenever she speaks to my Dad. Parang lahat naman ata takot sa kanya.
My dad smiled. "Well, it's been such a long time since I've watched a basketball game. College days pa so I think this would be refreshing."
Alexa loudly laughed, obviously enjoying the fact that Dad's comfortable enough to talk to her. "Ay talaga po? Nice naman! Anong school po ba kayo dati?"
"Ateneo."
Nagulat si Alexa at naalanganin ang kanyang facial expression. Hindi nya siguro ine-expect na arch rival namin ang school ni Dad. "Oops, kalaban ka po pala namin, Tito. Sorry."
I almost laughed at Alexa's failed expression when Steph gladly came in the picture sporting a Green Archers shirt with Kib's number on the back that made me raise my eyebrows. Anyare? Bati na sila?
"Kuya Liam! Ate Pauline? Andito kayo?!" bati nya at nagulat ng sobra nung pagkatingin nya sa kanan. "Ay Tito, you're here din po pala. How are you po? Where's Danica?" awkward but mejo masiglang bati nya sa amin.
Uh-oh. She-who-must-not-be-named is mentioned by my bestfriend. Awkward but you couldn't blame her hanapin si Danica. Same goes for us din naman, lahat din kami nagtataka kung saang lupalop na yung babaeng yun at anong nangyari sa kanila. Hindi naman pwedeng bigla na lang nawala sa eksena yung babaeng matagal na naming kinaiinisan.
"Hi Steph. Looking good! Blooming ah!" bati ni Ate Pauline para maibsan ng konti yung awkwardness. Nag-smile din sa kanya sina Kuya and Dylan even gave an enthusiastic wave at her.
I expected Dad to be more condescending with the way Steph greeted her but Dad gave a sneer. "Let's not look for someone who isn't here... but it's nice to find out na complete attendance pala kayong magkakaibigan sa mga laro ah. Sporty pala kayo." Wow, galing naman sumegway!
Wait, joke ba yun? Hindi ako sanay eh.
"Tito naman, puro joke. I'm guessing sa Ateneo side po kayo uupo?" Alexa asked Dad but looked around uncomfortably dahil obvious naman kung sino ang pinunta at susuportahan namin dito.
"It doesn't really matter if Ateneo was my alumna; We are here to support LaSalle, right Marquis?"
I am surprised with this conversation we're having kaya wala akong nagawa kung hindi tumango na lang. All these casual and nice chat my friends are having with my father is a scene I never thought would happen, ever. That's why I am so weirded out – but at the same time may kakaibang saya akong nararamdaman sa puso ko.
From Ricci Rivero
Andito na kayo MOA babe? I'm here at the dug out
To Ricci Rivero
Yes bun we arrived 15 mins ago. Kakaupo pa lang namin sa seats namin.
Thanks super sa sweet ringside tickets babe. Na-impress si Daddy. 😊
One point for you! Hihi 😘
From Ricci Rivero
Shit, thanks for reminding me na anjan pala Dad mo. I was trying to that forget nga eh
Wanna call u sana or meet up before the game kaso di naman pwede
I'm so nervous babe huhu wanna see youuuu 😔
To Ricci Rivero
OK sige lets meet babe takas ako here. Meet u at the usual spot?
We literally just sat at the seats in DLSU's side when I received a frantic text from Ricci. Alam kong sobrang kinakabahan na siya at sa sobrang praning nya na, for sure kung anu-ano nang pumapasok sa utak nun ngayon. I can tell that my family's impressed with the seats as they were all smiling and observing the view from where we sat. I even heard Dylan muffle a short, 'Wow, awesome view!' which made Dad smile.
"Dad, Kuya, I'll meet up lang with my other friends in the entrance. I told them kasi I'll see them for a bit before the game." I lied because ano pa bang irarason ko? Na kinakabahan ang boyfriend ko at kailangan namin maglandian para kumalma siya?
All of them nodded except Ate Pauline who gave me an exaggerated wink – signaling to me that she doesn't believe my reasoning so I just shrugged. I ran towards the dugout but before I made a left turn, I was stopped by Steph and Alexa who are busy buying food in front.
"Hoy Marquis, where you going? 30 minutes na lang start na yung game!"
"Oo nga, ito na yung pinabili mong hotdog and Coke oh!" Steph flailed at me.
Alexa raised her eyebrows sa nagmamadaling ako."Ay baka ibang klase ng hotdog naman ang hanap at pupuntahan!" asar pa niya as I gave her a middle finger and laughed.
I continued my rapid walk and shouted, "Wait lang!" as I ran towards the dug out and I swear I saw them glance at me with suggestive look on their faces. Alam naman na nila kung saan ako pupunta, no need na ipagtago.
Hingal akong pumasok sa eerie dug out kung saan kami madalas magkita ni Ricci before the game. Just like the last time, nakakapagtaka na ang tahimik dito sa lugar na 'to. Sa buong arena ata, ito lang yung spot kung saan tahimik. I see a silhouette that's leaning against the wall, with only his phone screen illuminating his innocent face.
I felt a vibration on my hand and I figured this guy in front of me probably just texted me. I laughed quietly. I wonder what exactly is his feeling right now?
"Oh, andito na ako. Tama na pag-Fflood," I quipped at dahan-dahan siyang nilapitan. He also slowly looked up to me and gave me the most stunning smile I fell in love with.
The feeling when you see that one person and your heart skips a beat. Sure ako, siya lang ang makakagawa sa akin ng ganito.
"Tagal mo babe," he whispered at me whilst we share a tender hug. We hugged each other tighter than before and kung possible lang talaga na i-absorb ko lahat ng kaba sa katawan nya through this hug, I'd gladly do it.
Hinagod ko ang likod nya and di ko alam kung OA lang ako or what, but ang tigas ng spine nya. Sobrang halata na he's stressed enough and I feel sorry for the pressure and adrenaline he's having right now.
Mental note: ayain si Ricci magpa-spa next week.
"Bunny, don't be nervous na okay? Same routine. Don't think about the pressure, just play the game and have fun. I'll be cheering for you at the bleachers, okay? Stop worrying." I squeezed his cheeks and he pouted while I puckered up and gave him a short peck on his frowning lips.
"What if matalo kami babe? Sobrang nakakahiya sa Dad mo..."
I shook my head repeatedly. Seryoso bang wala na siyang bukambibig kung hindi ang tatay ko? "Cci, isa pa. Isa pang banggit kay Daddy magagalit na talaga ako. Wala nga yun, he told us kanina na he's here to support the team and it doesn't matter if he's from Ateneo and that counts from something right? Kung ayaw mo maniwala ask Steph and Alexa pa. So please believe me when I tell you that you don't need to impress him because he likes you already..." I bit my lip and convinced him, hopeful that this would be the last time that I have to persuade him about my Father.
Ricci inhaled and released a sigh of breath and hugged me again in which I gladly returned. "Okay, hon. Sorry na. Last na pagka-praning ko na 'to sa Daddy mo promise."
I don't know how long we stayed in the hidden dug out wrapped in each other's arms but I felt another vibration on my hand so I'm guessing it's one of my family members or friends who's probably looking for me. I realized na 30 minutes na lang pala kanina before the game nung nagpunta ako dito and we clearly lost the time. Pumiglas ako from the embrace and checked the time.
4:49. SHIT! 11 minutes before the game!
Ricci laughed when he saw my panic-stricken face. "Baby, what if I told you that hindi naman talaga ako kinakabahan? Gusto lang talaga kitang makita and magpalambing sa'yo," ngisi at lambing nya na may halo pang kiliti sa tagiliran which made me widen my eyes in disbelief.
"Huh? Seryoso ba?"
He nodded and winked at me whilst giving me another hug.
Here I am na sobrang halos mabaliw na dahil di ko malaman kung paano ko ba papakalmahin yung sarili ko at yung boyfriend ko sa araw na 'to tapos pagttripan nya lang ako? Ang lakas talaga ng trip!
I harshly punched him on the chest which made him whimper in surprise. "Ricci, hindi na nga ako magkanda-ugaga dito kung paano ka papakalmahin tapos pag-ttripan mo pa akong ganyan? Wala kang puso! Bahala ka na! Bahala kang mabaril ng shotgun ni Dad, I wouldn't care. Ako pa magaabot ng baril nya!"
Ricci laughed and pouted. "Joke lang, babe. OA mo talaga! Pero de joke, siyempre kinakabahan ako. But now you're here, wala, sobrang mas okay pa ako sa okay."
I rolled my eyes but smiled at him nevertheless. "Siguraduhin mo ah. Lakas talaga ng trip mo. Lagi mo na lang ako pinagttripan. Sige na, go ahead na. I'm sure hinuhunting ka na nila Coach. Baka mabuking pa tayo sa secret location natin."
He pulled me again for another tender hug and I heard him sniff my head. We heard a small bell at di namalayan na we got lost in each other's arms again.
"Tangina, 5 minutes na lang pala shit! I have to go na babe. See you na lang later sa dinner?" nagmamadali nyang sabi sa akin.
I nodded fast at paamba ng aalis at tatakbo pabalik but a harsh hand pulled me again and I was surprised when I was met with a pair of smoldering brown eyes and lips enveloped with mine.
We pulled away after a moment and there goes that breathtaking smile of Ricci Rivero once again.
"You think I'd let you go without a goodluck kiss? Never, babe." he finally said as he walks out, running back to their own dugout leaving me speechless.
-
"RIVEROOOOO THREE!"
Dylan, Ate Pauline and I jumped and squealed in delight as Ricci scored for three at the nth time. Hindi ko alam kung talagang practisado siya or sadyang ginagalingan nya lang talaga on the 2nd quarter. Sobrang nakaka-amaze na ibang-iba ang laro nya since the last time na laban nila with Ateneo. The last time was a disaster and ngayon, wala siyang ginawa kung hindi magpaulan ng tres and paminsan, gawin yung mga signature dunks and moves nya.
"I didn't know na sobrang galing pala ni Ricci. I guess all the hype is true," Kuya Liam screamed in between dahil sobrang ingay na talaga dito sa arena. I smiled at him and nodded, appreciating the thought na sobrang papuri ang ginagawa nya kay Ricci.
While cheering, I also couldn't help myself to observe Dad while he watches the game. It's just the 2nd quarter and lamang ng 5 points ang DLSU and I have no idea which team he really is rooting for dahil di naman siya napapasigaw sa both teams pag may nakaka-shoot. I looked at him and he caught me staring.
"Dad, are you having fun?" I can't help but ask. I just want to make sure.
He shook his head and my heart almost fell out of me. He's not enjoying?! "What?! You're not?! Should we leave? But I promised Ricci we'll have dinner together-"
But I was cut off with a boisterous laugh and a gentle pat on my head. "Hay Marquis. Manang-mana ka talaga sa nanay mo. Masyadong panickera, masyadong worry-wart. Of course I'm having fun. Nagpapaulan ng tres yung boyfriend mo e."
I blushed when I heard the term 'boyfriend' because how do you react when your Father's talking about your beau? I laughed and nodded, grateful at his thoughtful words. I just wish Ricci's here to hear these para tuluyan nang mapanatag ang loob nya.
"I know this isn't the right time to say this but I would like to apologize on what I did to you and your former suitor. Miguel Romualdez was it? Alam kong hindi tama yung ginawa ko sa kanya, lalo na sa inyo. Nakielam ako at pinangunahan ko kayo and late na nung na-realize kong I was such a inconsiderate father for doing that to you. Ayaw kitang masaktan when all I did was to inflict pain on you, my only daughter."
I just nodded, but weirded out the fact that I'm teary eyed on a sea of people laughing and cheering their lungs out while my Dad and I are sort of having a mini-reconciliation. Alam kong napatawad ko na si Dad noon pa, but hearing it coming from himself, may konting kirot at talon pa rin sa puso ko.
I wiped my right eye. "Dad, matagal na po kitang napatawad. Hindi ko na po iniisip yun, but thank you. I mean, I really needed to hear that. Kaya thank you, I really appreciate it."
"It's the least I could do para makabawi naman sa'yo. I know it's not too late, but I hope this is a great start. Thanks for inviting me here... sa lahat ng masasakit na nasabi ko sa'yo noon, I'm actually surprised that you're forgiving and letting me in your world again. No doubt, manang-mana ka talaga sa Mommy mo. So patient, so considerate and so loving."
The moment I heard those words, hindi ko napigilan ang mga luha na bumubuhos. It's so nice and fulfilling to hear that Dad's putting mom into our convo. Matagal nyang inilihim ang pait at sakit na iniwan ni Mommy sa family namin so it really is rewarding para ungkatin nya, let alone compare me on how precious Mother is. Maybe fighting and getting so broken up about Ricci that made me decide to go to Sydney and clear things with Mom really has its purpose.
Dad pulled me in and gave me a light hug. "Oh tama na, baka ma-distract pa si Ricci at sabihing pinapaiyak na naman kita. And for the last time, iyakin ka rin talaga. Like mother, daughter." Tawa nya.
I laughed and pulled away, feeling so overwhelmed and overjoyed. Nothing could make me happier than fixing my relationship with Dad. Siyempre, mas masaya pa rin sana kung kumpleto kami but I know life doesn't work that way. Siguro balang araw matutupad din yun – sa tamang panahon. Just like this.
-
The sea of Green roared to life as Aljun Melecio shoots the last ball of the game. It was a win for the DLSU Green Archers at halos mapaos at mapatid na kami kaka-cheer at kakatalon all throughout the game. Kita ko sa mata ng aking pamilya na masaya sila sa panalo & I couldn't stop the earsplitting grin on my face. Sobra akong masaya and I just hope this moment stays forever.
"Marq, tara sa baba!" sigaw ni Alexa from her seat and I nodded dahil routine na talaga ng lahat na i-congratulate ang players after the game.
I nodded. "Dad, puntahan lang po namin sila Ricci sa baba. 10 minutes lang po. Meet ko po kayo sa parking?"
I would've invited them sumama sa baba, but I wouldn't want my Dad nor Kuya to feel awkward. Ano nga namang gagawin nila dun, diba? Plus, I really wanted na sumabay na lang kay Ricci papunta sa Rockwell where we planned to have dinner but nahihiya naman ako sa pamilya ko magsabi.
"I wanna come Ate! I wanna congratulate Kuya Ricci! He's so galing!" I nodded at ginulo ang buhok ni Dylan. Kahit kelan talaga, nakakatuwa ang innocence ng kapatid ko.
"Bakit hindi ka na lang sumabay kay Ricci, Marq? Did he bring his car? Let's just meet up at Rockwell na lang."
I smiled – liking what Kuya Liam suggested as if he read my mind. Nakita ko namang nag-wink si Ate Pauline ng patago sa akin and that's when I knew na may kagagawan siya dito.
I looked at Dad to ask for his approval and he simply nodded. I said our goodbyes and Dylan and I ran towards where all the audience is celebrating Green Archers' win against their arch rival.
-
"Kuya Ricci! Congrats! That was awesome!" sigaw ni Dylan as we see Ricci going towards us. We aggressively ran towards him and gave him a short hug before he messily ruffles my brother's hair.
"Thanks, Dy. Lapit na rin game nyo, kailan tayo magppractice?" bati ni Ricci at kita kong tumingin siya sa paligid namin na parang may hinahanap.
"Next weekend, pwede ka Kuya? Teach me naman how you did eurostep! I wanna do that also on our game! Gelo taught me na how to sidestep last week eh."
Ricci nodded excitedly as we finally locked eyes. Lumapit ulit siya sa akin and gave me another tender hug – just like earlier.
"Sobrang galing mo, bunny. I am so proud of you," bulong ko sakanya habang hinahagod ko ang pawis na likuran nya. Totoo ngang kahit gaano ka-arte ka pa sa mga bagay bagay gaya ng paghawak ng pawis ng iba, basta mahal mo – walang kadi-kadire. Lol.
"Eh ikaw e, ganda ganda mo up there eh. Buti na di ako na-distract." He whispered back and I felt him give me a soft kiss on my head. Sobrang tangkad lang nya talaga. When we broke from the hug, tumingin siya around us and I can tell he's looking for someone.
"Lakas talaga mambola. Oh stop being nervous, nauna na sila Dad, Kuya and Ate sa Rockwell. Dun ka na lang daw nila i-cocongratulate," I concluded at him at buti na lang hindi na siya napraning pa at nagtanong because some of our friends also approached and greeted us.
-
"Are you sure ok lang kila Tita na hiramin ka muna namin after the game?" kulit ko kay Ricci sa passenger's seat while on our way to Rockwell.
Ricci pecked my left hand na naka-intertwine sa right nya. "Oo naman, minsan lang naman 'to eh. Thanks pala for offering them to join the dinner ah. They would've come, pero maaga pa kasi sila Mom bukas. Babalik na sila sa Isabela."
I pouted, sad at the fact na babalik na sa province sila Tita Abi and younger brothers ni Ricci. After the pleasantries kasi with Ricci, Dylan and I, pinuntahan din kami ng family ni Ricci to congratulate their Ahia and Sahia. I invited them to join us for dinner but they gently declined since the kids need to rest for the long drive the next day.
"Okay lang, I understand naman. Sad lang kasi matagal na naman bago ko makausap yung mga kapatid mo. Lalo na si Riley – sobrang ma-mimiss ko talaga siya," I pouted.
Ricci tightened his grip on me. "Babe, may Facetime naman. And don't worry right after the season, tayo naman ang bibisita sa kanila don," he gently reassured me and there's a twinkle in his eyes.
"Promise?"
"I promise. Besides, I was sort of hoping na mag-dedecline sila Mom sa offer mo. I mean, can you imagine if sumama sila sa dinner? Fuck, so nervewrecking. Ako nga halos atakihin na sa harap mo e, what more meeting the parents na agad? Pwede ba isa-isa lang? Mahina rin ang kalaban."
I shook my head and laughed at him. "See Dy? Sobrang nervous si Ricci sa harap ni Dad. He doesn't believe me when I tell him that Dad likes him. Prove it to him nga," I asked my brother so that he could join our conversation naman.
Pumunta si Dylan sa gitna namin at nag-smile. "Yeah, Dad's nice na, Kuya Ricci. All thanks to what Ate did, Dad completely changed all of a sudden. What did you do ba, Ate?"
"Oo nga, Marq. Ano nga pala ginawa mo? You haven't shared that much yet. Daya nito!" sabat ni Ricci.
I smirked mischievously. "It's a top secret. Baka pag nalaman nyo kung anong kiliti nun, hindi na ako ang maging favorite nun. It's better if I just keep it to myself. I'm sure Dyl, you and Dad have also talked na."
"Pfft. Daya mo naman, Ate. But yeah, he keeps on talking to me nga. I feel like he's making up for the lost time that he acted so weird and mean to us. Kaya Kuya Ricci, you don't have to worry. Sagot ka namin ni Ate, wag ka na matakot dun,"
Ricci smirked. "Really Dy? You'd save me from your Dad? What if he bribed you a Nike Airforce 1. Ako pa rin kakampi mo?"
"Kuya Cci, kahit 10 Yeezy's pa yan. You're still my favorite friend."
I laughed and observed my boyfriend and little brother's interaction and I can't help but to feel thankful because they were so comfortable with each other. Really, life's been great after all. You know what they say, #blessed ;)
-
"Oh, just in time. Food just arrived. Na-traffic ba kayo?" Kuya Liam welcomed us as we arrived at Fireside with Ricci and Dylan in tow.
We all nodded and sat down, nervous at the fact that we're a bit late. The mouthwatering chicken this resto has makes my stomach grumble. Before I reach for a plate, Ricci stood up at nag-bless kay Daddy. To say I was surprised was an understatement.
"Tito, goodevening po. Thanks po for watching the game. I really appreciate it," I heard him say and I saw him swallow hard, harshly examing my Dad's reaction.
Dad was surprised with Ricci's polite gesture as well so he wasn't able to speak agad, but after a couple of seconds, he went to pat Ricci on the shoulder and gave him a gentle smile.
"No problem. I came to see what my daughter has been raving on and I wasn't disappointed. You and your brother really are something," Dad says and it gave me goosebumps. "Didn't your family watch? You should have invited them to join us as well." Dad glanced at me as well as if dapat ako ang gumawa noon.
"Ay Marquis invited them po but my Mom & brothers had to leave for province early in the morning tomorrow po. Sayang nga po e, pero Tito thank you po. Coming from you, it's a big deal po talaga." Ricci smiled and as if nagliliwanag nang bigla ang mukha nya habang kinakausap nya si Dad.
Bumalik na si Ricci sa tabing upuan ko and nodded at Ate and Kuya. Kuya smirked. "Ricciboi, dumadakdak ka pala. Sayang di kita naabutan sa LSGH – siguro sikat ka sa batch nyo."
LSGH din kasi si Kuya on his younger years. Ricci blushed and laughed. "Di naman po, Kuya. Tsamba lang yun."
"Anong tsamba? Nakaka 30 points sa game, tsamba?"
We all laughed and continued eating. I am so overjoyed right now because I can't believe this is all happening right in front of my eyes. If you told me this exact scene would happen a year ago, I would hilariously laugh on your face.
"Masyadong humble 'tong boyfriend mo, Marquis. When is the championship ba Ricci? We'll watch ah!"
"2 games pa before we enter the Championships, Achi. Sana po magtuloy-tuloy na and makapasok nga kami sa championship. We'll keep on praying." Ricci replied.
I smiled and I figured it's time para iparamdam kay Ricci kung gaano ako ka-proud sa kanya. "Guys, hindi nyo naitatanong but Ricci's actually considered for the Gilas 2023. I mean, nothing official pa but still, right? Nasa list siya! Kaya it's true nga ata, masyado siyang humble..." ngisi ko sa kanya at kunwaring inirapan ako ni Ricci. "See? Ayaw nya pang ipagkalat. Cci, it's something you should be proud of! It means isa ka sa mga best basketball players in the country and you're not even halfway through College yet!" (A/N: Guys kunware di pa siya Gilas Cadet, ha!)
"Wow, Cci! Congrats! Eh sa sobrang galing mo ba naman e, ako pa ang magtataka ako ba't di ka makasali dun! Wag mo kaming kakalimutan pag superstar ka na ha!" Kuya joked. Weh, corny.
Ricci's smiling so hard. "Thank you po, Kuya. Di ko pa po pinagsasabi kasi hindi pa naman talaga official. Eto talagang si Marquis, ang daldal!"
I can see Dad smiling but he suddenly cleared his throat. "I just hope na hindi mo napapabayaan ang studies mo, hijo. Basketball is great, but in the end, education is much valued. Do you have any plans after college?" Dad suddenly asked and I hint seriousness in his voice.
Ricci swallowed and nodded. "Yes Tito, I keep that in mind naman po. I'm trying my best po to juggle both basketball and school since dahil din naman po sa basketball yung scholarship ko. As for the future plans po, siguro lahat naman po ng Basketball players dream makapaglaro ng pro. So hopefully po, I get to be a professional player someday."
Why do I feel like he's being interviewed live on TV?!
Dad nodded and continued chewing his food as everyone got silent. "But of course it doesn't end there. If hindi po mag work out yun, I'll make sure I have business here and there. I'll start po with helping with our family business and from my experience there, sana po I can also have my own."
It's nice hearing these from Ricci. Sa lagi namin pagsasama, di ko akalain na ganito na pala kalawak ang plans nya for himself. Ako kaya, ano bang plano ko sa buhay?!
"That's a good thing that you have plans this early, Ricci. Your age seems too aggressive nowadays that you forget to plan ahead."
Aray. Natamaan naman ako dun.
"And I must commend you for being so excellent in Basketball. Dylan kept on raving about you and we were all a witness of how you put on a great game and being able to join the national team. I'm sure proud na proud sa'yo ang parents mo. Keep up the good work."
I wanted to squeal in delight because of what I'm hearing. Sobrang worth it lahat ng takot ni Ricci because this time around, narinig namin lahat kung paano siya i-compliment at purihin ni Dad. Siguro naman hindi na nya kakailanganin pa ng assurance na approve sa kanya si Dad.
But when I saw Ricci's rewarding and cocky smile gracing that beautiful lips of his, I know he doesn't need the assurance now, nor ever because he gained it.
-
"How are you and Kib na ba? Nakapag-usap na ba kayo ulit?"
I asked Steph as the three of us are skimming through racks of clothing here in Zara. It's a Saturday afternoon and the girls decided to hangout here in Megamall habang sina Drei, Prince and Ricci ay nagiikot ikot din. Malamang nasa Nike na naman yung mga yun.
"No, never na. Sa totoo lang, I already lost hope. I don't think magiging okay pa kami – ever. And I think I've been learning to accept that the past few days."
We all sighed and got sad at our bestfriend's situation. May mga bagay na nga sigurong di na maibabalik sa dati no matter how hard you try.
"Cheer up, Steph. It's not the end of the world. Malay mo Kib's not really the one for you but..." Alexa raised both of her eyebrows up and down and gave a suggestive wink. "Drei."
Steph and I gasped in surprise. "Maang-maangan pa. E ano pang ginagawa ni Drei dito? Bakit siya sumama? Siguro naman napaka-obvious na triple date ang nangyayari dito ngayon."
Steph facepalmed. Di ko alam kung immature kami minsan eh. "Alexa, di ba pwedeng barkada lang tayong lahat? Does everything always have a meaning?"
"Kahit na, obvious na obvious naman na Drei got the hots for you. Amin na kasi!" Alexa persisted.
I tried to keep my mouth shut because again, it's not my story to tell. Hindi pa sa amin nababanggit ni Steph yung nangyaring confrontation nila ni Drei nung nasa LU kami and I'm keeping it a secret na narinig namin ni Ricci ang pag-amin ni Drei dahil ayaw naman naming mabansagang chismoso.
"Well, okay. Drei admitted to me na he feels something for me ever since we met." Alexa let out a loud squeal, other shoppers gave us a questioning look. "But I told him na hindi naman ganon kadali yun. I still have feelings for Kib and at that time, umaasa pa ako na magkaayos pa kami."
I inwardly smiled. Alam ko na 'to e. But for Alexa sige I'll pretend I don't have any idea. Oops, heh.
"But ngayon alam kong wala na talagang pagasa but still, it doesn't give me the right to just date Drei. Sobrang whore naman ng dating ko diba. Also, it happened in the wrong situation. Mas lalo ko lang pinatunayan sa lahat yung pagkakamali namin ni Drei so I think wala akong mao-offer lang kay Drei kung hindi friendship lang talaga."
Alexa & I grew quiet as we reflected on Steph's word. She has her point and no matter how Alexa and I wanted Steph to be happy, something's wrong din talaga with the equation if she just started to date Drei. Sobrang labo naman kasi talaga but whatever Steph has decided on, we are here, ready to support her.
"We understand you naman Steph. We just want you to be happy kaya ka namin laging kinukulit about sa lovelife mo. But if that's what you think is the right thing to do – which, personally, I think is really the best then we're happy for you. Kahit ano pa yang decision mo alam mo namang we are always here to guide and love you."
"Yeah! Through thick and thin!" dagdag ni Alexa sa makatang declaration ko.
In the middle of our shopping spree - almost 20 garments on hand, the three of us shared a hug. It's heartwarming to think na andito pa rin kaming tatlo – closer than ever after all the trials that life has thrown us. I'm extremely happy that I've found these girls this early in my life.
After that dramatic moment, I noticed Alexa's eyes went on to her right and gave an evil smirk.
"Girls, on to your right, the bitch in the uniform." Senyas nya at napatigil kami when we see in all of her kadire glory is none other than:
Bianca.
"Is she on a date?!"
There she goes with her usual slutty self clinging on to another tall, Mestizo guy who probably was the first dude who gave her the time of the day. Looking up at them it seems as if they are enjoying each other's company because they were laughing and softly giving each other sweet gazes and smiles.
"Girls, naiiisip nyo ba ang naiisip ko?!" Steph seriously inquired and Alexa and I just laughed and nodded at her. Oo naman, B1 and B2!
"Same style, same routine?"
"Yep, same alibi, same agenda." I finished.
We walked closer towards Bianca and her boylet and her eyes widened when she saw the three of us fast approaching. She faced her date and I can tell that she's trying to talk his date out of the scene but in a few seconds, we're on her with evil sneers, ready to destroy what's left inside her just like how she destroyed us weeks and days before.
"Hi Bianca! OMG! Long time no see! How are you!!! You didn't tell us nakalabas ka na pala ng rehab!" OA na bati ni Steph as we gave her sick smiles and beso on the cheek.
I know we shouldn't be doing this because it's so mean and conniving but... we are not called the Mean Girls for no reason.
Bianca gave us a glare and I laughed. "OHMYGOSH. It's been so long na since we last saw you. Pumayat ka super. How's the baby, nasa bahay?" I added and I swear that Bianca's guy eyeballs grew into sockets.
Bianca clenched her teeth. "What the heck are you guys talking about? Rehab? Baby?" tumingin siya sa ka-date nya. "Drake, I don't even know these girls. Can we go?"
"What do you mean you don't know?! E diba you slept with my boyfriend kaya nga we broke up and I'm single right now... he's even your baby daddy. Wag mo naman ikahiya si Jake." imbento ni Steph and I'm actually proud of myself that I'm not cracking up right now. Sobrang benta nitong mga pinagsasabi namin! Someone give us a Best Actress award!
The guy just kept looking at us back and forth, shocked and it's as if he's looking for a way out. Too bad.
"Drake, don't believe them. I was not pregnant! I swear, they're just trying to set me up!"
"I thought you don't know them! Why would they set you up if you don't know each other?!"
The three of us laughed gently. "Oh c'mon Bianca. Last week lang you were trying to flirt with my boyfriend in Taft then you're telling me that you don't know us... Wait, don't tell me di rin nya alam yun?" I added and I know I should probably stop and keep my mouth shut but I just can't stop the inner bitch in me.
But Bianca kept on shaking her head at the guy he's with and speechless. Well, ngayon alam nya na kung anong pakiramdam ng pinangunahan whilst feeling helpless and desperate at the same time.
"Girls, ano ba kayo keep it easy lang. We don't know if kakalabas lang ni Bianca sa rehab that's why she's still feeling a bit loopy right now. Biancs, wag ka ma-overwhelm ha. Na-excite lang kasi kami dahil na-miss ka namin! When did you got out of the rehab pala? Sorry di na kami nakadalaw. Super busy with school eh." Tuluy-tuloy na sabat ni Steph.
My gosh, pinagtulungan talaga namin siya.
"Hindi pa rin kayo tapos?!" we heard a disbelieving voice from the back and there we saw Prince, Drei, Ricci and Brent (andito na si Brent!?) approaching us.
"Bianca! You're here pala!" bati ni Brent. Pansin ko siya lang lagi ang pumapansin kay Bianca.
The guy with Bianca was stunned lalo na nung nakita at narinig nyang the boys who just arrived acknowledged Bianca dahil mas nag mukhang kilalang-kilala talaga namin siya and was proven na di nga kami nagsisinungaling sa mga claims namin. Bianca's eyes widened as she gulped hard, probably wishing she'd disappear like a bubble right here, right now.
"Oh, you guys are here na pala. Guys, say hi naman to Bianca and her new boyfriend. Nakalabas na pala siya ng rehab!" Steph shared proudly and all the boys were astonished at nakita kong siniko patago ni Alexa sa Prince probably para maki-ride sa trip namin ngayon.
"You know these guys as well? How many boys have you flirted with, seriously?!" the guy said, incredulously, disbelief plastered on his mestizo face.
Halos pagpawisan na si Bianca sa pagka-on the spot and embarrassment na idinudulot namin sa kanya. I laughed inwardly and I see Ricci looking at me intently as if he's trying to analyze what we're trying to do next dahil alam nyang malaki laki ang naging kasalanan sa akin nitong babaeng 'to.
"Yeah, they are my schoolmates but-"
But before she gets to finish what she wanted to say, the guy let out a loud sigh and scratched the back of his neck slowly, a gesture showing his embarrassment and skepticism. I can tell that onti-onti nang nauubos ang pasensya nya kay Bianca.
"No, I don't wanna hear it. Listen, I have to go." The guy didn't even look at us as he walked out, in a rush. As if staying with Bianca would make him toxic and contagious.
Great. May sakit sa utak naman kasi talaga yang babaeng yan. Attention whore.
... but wait, why do I feel bad and a tad guilty?
We all watched as Bianca's new guy walk away faster than a flash as Bianca suddenly turned around and faced us while she lets out a wild, loud screech and seething in anger.
"You fucking bitches! Ang sama ng ugali nyo! You don't know how much I liked Drake tapos kung anu-anong ka bullshittan na wala namang katotohanan mga sinasabi nyo! Fuckin' unbelievable!"
All of us just stared at Bianca who's now boiling – kahit yung ibang andito sa Zara nakatingin na rin sa kanya. I couldn't blame her though, when I was once in her shoes gusto ko na lang din magpatiwakal.
"At least now you know the feeling of being mistreated and misunderstood. Sakit, diba? Wala pa yan sa ginawa mo kay Marquis. You deserve it!" laban ni Steph and Drei and Brent had to gently hold both of her arms to control her anger.
"Oh, so this is revenge huh? You happy now?" Bianca churned.
"We'll only stop if you stop messing with our lives as well. Ano, have you learned your lesson?" dagdag pa ni Alexa whilst Prince holds her arm to control as well.
"Why so aggressive ba huh? What I said naman before are the truth. It's true that Marquis cheated on Ricci, Prince cheated on you and well, Steph is a cheat as well. A barkada full of cheaters! So don't blame me if nagkanda-gago gago kayo. Y'all set up yourselves for a disaster. Kaya wag nyo 'kong pagtulungan."
"Bianca, tama na yan please. If you don't have anything nice to say then habulin mo na lang si Drake." Sabat ni Drei which went unnoticed.
I decided to finally clear the space for once. Nakakahiya na kami dito sa mall at baka mag-cause pa ng kung anong hassle when all we wanted is just a chill hang out.
"Bianca, wala kang alam at wala kang right para gawin yung mga ginawa mo. You just meddled with our relationships and you have no idea how much it caused me or us. For once naman, be humble and accept your mistakes. Alam namin mali yung ginawa namin sa'yo just now and we're willing to apologize naman eh, basta you have to accept your fault too." I gently explained to her which gained an encouraging soft pat on the back from Ricci.
"Yeah, we don't even have to be friends. All we wanted was an apology, Bianca." Alexa.
"Sus, if I know she wanted to be in our circle kaya nagkakaganyan yan," Steph still angry, whispered.
"Steph, tama na." Drei.
But what I realized is kahit gaano pa ako mag-explain kay Bianca, she still won't give in. Iba't iba nga siguro ang mga tao kung paano mag-isip. Kung dati akala ko wala nang pagasa magbago ang tatay ko because of the cold demeanor that he has shown us half of our lives; ngayon parang nabulungan siya ng anghel at kala mo kung sinong mabait at understanding but the kind of person like Bianca, well – maybe she's the one who's unforgiving and cold. And maybe, just maybe we're really not meant to be friends.
"I did what I did and you bitches deserve it," humakbang siya at senyales na nya yun para umalis na. "Ricci, call me if you changed your mind about your slutty girlfriend. Now if you'll excuse me."
Nag-walk out siya and we were all baffled by what happened. All the boys are speechless as well, probably confused as to how and why this catfight happened.
Lumapit sa akin si Ricci and gave me a sidehug while gave my forehead a soft peck.
"Ano ba kayo, anong ginawa nyo dun? Ano bang nangyari?" he whispered at me but everyone heard it as we all looked at him.
"Wala no, siya kaya nauna!" I lied and smirked but Ricci just laughed and shook his head at me.
"Sus, kayo pa. Bullies nyo kaya! Ikaw babe ah, bad girl ka. You need to be punished." ngisi nya sa akin.
"Anong bad girl? Siya kaya! Kung di dahil sa kanya di tayo magaaway 'no. Pabibo kasi." defense ko.
But Brent suddenly appeared on my right. "Kahit na, kailangan talagang gawin yun? Kawawa naman si Bianca."
Steph glared at Brent. "Ikaw Brent ah, nakakahalata na ako sa'yo. Do you have the hots for that girl? Pansin ko lagi mo siyang pinapansin at ngayon pinagtatanggol pa!" At hindi lang pala ako ang nakapansin.
"Di no, kawawa lang talaga. Papansin lang naman talaga yon si Bianca but yun lang yun. Hay nako, kayong mean girls talaga!" Brent replied, still glaring and attempting to change the topic.
We all checked out the items that we picked as the guys waited for us. May iba ring girls na nagpapicture with them and sometimes talaga nakakalimutan kong we roll with well-known basketball players. I think I will never get used to that.
"Ano girls, where do you want to eat? We'll treat you na. Nakakatakot kayo eh!" aya ni Prince while Steph, Alexa and I looked at each other with amusing and deceiving smirks on our faces.
Yeah, you really don't wanna mess with us. Even our own boyfriends are scared of our incontrollable trio.
@marquisprieto: Ride or die bitchessss 🧚🏻♂️🔫#sincedayone #gangganggang @thealexachua @StephSantos
@ricciiirivero: Bad girls. Tsktsk 🙈
@katisawesome: Hey I'm MIA!!!!
@andreicaracut: Takot aqqqqq 🤭
@priiincerivero: Hey there, hot-teas! 🤗
@brenttparaiso: wag po mga ate di po ako lalaban
-
GUYS!!! Last 2 chapters na lang! Sobrang na-sasad talaga ako. Parang di pa sakin nagsisink that I'm gonna finish this story na. Huhu k ang drama e. Pero jk
Super sad I didn't reach the votes last chapter. Huhu guys sorry kung super boring na but this has to happen... kailangan ng conclusions ng mga bagay because we're nearing the end. Kaya I apologize if ever. Wasn't supposed to update today but I was feeling sad pero love ko kayo hehe 💚
Anyways, ano ganap kay Boss Ricci? Parang mej wala diba? If bored kayo tara lets chika jk haha