Kabanata 28
Kabanata 28
"G-good morning, Prosecutor—"
"Anong good morning?! May good bas a morning, huh? Mayro'n? Mayro'n?!" halos makita ko na ang lalamunan ni Dad sa diin ng sigaw niya kaya napangiwi na ako.
"D-Dad, please! Let us explain—"
"Zip your mouth, woman." He glared at me.
"Wala namang kasalanan si Locket, Dad—"
"Gusto mong pakpakin kita ng walis-tambo?!" he raised his walis-tambo and I took a step back in horror, shaking my head.
"N-no..."
"Doon ka! Face the wall." He pointed the side, "go there, child!"
"O-okay po, your honor!" I laughed awkwardly and ran to the corner, inilagay ko ang kamay ko sa likod ko habang nakaharap sa pader, kinakabahan.
Sorry, Pingu! I love you but Dad's scary!
"Get out!" hampas ni Dad sa walis-tambo kaya halos mapatalon din ako, unti-unti kong nilingon ang pwesto nila at mas kumalabog ang dibdib nang makitang palabas na si Locket.
Dad then smacked his foot with the broom at narinig ko ang daing ni Locket doon.
Shit...shit...he's freaking dead!
I saw Chiel and Adi looking shock and confused seeing a man under my kitchen counter, si Mom ay napahawak pa sa sentido sa nakikita.
I'm already freaking thirty-one...bakit para akong sixteen ngayon?!
"Face the wall, Crest Veronica!" Dad's blue eyes caught mine and hissed kaya nanlaki ang mata ko at dali-daling bumaling sa pader at tumitig doon.
Narinig ko ang kaluskos at mayamaya ay kalabog kaya dali-dali akong lumingon at halos mabuwal nang makitang nahaklit na ni Dad ang kwelyo ng shirt ni Locket na nanlalaki rin ang mata. Dahil magkasing-tangkad ang dalawa ay mukhang kayang patulan ni Locket ang Dad pero nakatunganga lang siya roon at parang tanggap na papagalitan na siya.
The walis-tambo fell on the floor, napangiwi naman ako at naramdaman ang sakit nang napaatras si Locket dahil sa hila ni Dad.
"Iñigo..." Mom warned, "let's just talk, let go of the kid."
"No, Thallia! He was hiding in there like a fucking ghost! I'm sure—"
"Isa!" Mom hissed and placed her hands on her waist, staring at Dad coldly.
"No, baby!" Dad's jaw clenched, "this asshole—"
"Damn!" Locket then cursed nang may maapakan siyang kung ano at mas tumama ang likod sa matigas na corner ng counter.
I smiled nervously when I saw how Dad's angry eyes glared at him.
"You fucking cursing at me, Dmitrov?!" Dad asked hardly and Locket's eyes widened while shaking his head horribly.
"N-no, no...I'm not, Prosecutor!" tila sundalo na sagot ni Locket sa kanya, "I-it's me...Damn me!"
"Gago ka, ah? Niloloko mo ba ako?!" he raised his fist to throw a punch at pasigaw na sana ako nang malapit na iyon sa mukha ni Locket pero sumigaw si Mom.
"Iñigo Rafael!" Mom hissed kaya naiwan sa ere ang kamay ni Dad.
"Just let me punch once—"
"Sige, throw a punch and you'll know what will happen next!" tumaas ang kilay ni Mommy sa kanya.
"What? Annulment?" Dad smirked at her, "nah, I'm not scared, you'll find it hard to annul me, baby. We got married twice and I won't fucking process it—"
"Fucking, huh?" tawa ni Mommy, "you jerk, ikaw lang ba ang abogado rito? Ikaw lang ba p'wedeng gumawa niyan, huh?!" Mom hissed at mula sa ngisi ay nawala iyon sa labi niya.
"N-no way," laban pa niya, "as if Adi and Chiel would do that, ayaw naman nilang maghiwalay tayo para lang sa suntok sa gagong laughtrip na 'to, r-right?!" baling niya sa dalawa.
Adira just smiled at him, unti-unting lumapit kay Mommy at humawak sa braso nito.
"Sorry, Dad. Mommy will be mad." Adi said gently kaya napaawang ang labi ni Dad.
"What?" he gasped. "Alchiel?!" baling niya kay Chiel na nagulantang din at napatingin kay Mommy and Mom raised her brow at him kaya napahawak siya sa batok at sumulyap kay Dad.
"Sorry, Prosecutor, majority wins." Kumapit si Chiel sa kabilang braso ni Mommy at nahulog na ang panga ni Dad.
"Are you all fucking serious?!" he cursed, "I'm just gonna teach this jerk a lesson—"
"Isa pang fucking-fucking mo riyan at tatahiin ko 'yang bibig mo." Mom said coldly kaya napangiwi na si Dad at bumaling kay Locket na alerto lang doon sa harapan niya.
"Isa lang," Dad then negotiated, his fist still in the air. "After one punch he's fucking dead—"
"Let go of the kid or annulment?" Mom smirked, glancing at her wristwatch.
"Baby, why are you doing this to me?!" drama pa ng Tatay ko roon.
"H'wag mo akong dramahan diyan, Sandejas. Time is running." Mom said boredly and glanced at my brother, "Chiel, you have an annulment draft, right? Send it on my office later—"
"Ito na! Hindi na!" Dad exclaimed and let go of Locket's shirt, frowning. "There, happy?"
Mom smiled, "good!" aniya at napanguso ang Dad ko at sinamaan ng tingin si Locket na mukhang kanina pa pinipigil ang paghinga pero ngayo'y napabuntonghininga lang.
"Akala mo tapos na?" Dad then smiled evilly, "my wife said no punch but it doesn't mean I won't fucking hurt you." Umatras siya at unti-unting dinampot ang walis at napalunok lang ang Pingu ko.
"Prosecutor, mag...magpapaliwanag po ako..." Locket explained. "I was just there to—"
"You are guilty beyond reasonable doubt, Dmitrov." Dad gritter his teeth, humihigpit ang hawak sa walis.
"Sir, I love your daughter—"
"Oh?!" he raised the broom at napasigaw ng bahagya si Locket at mas naalerto.
"Sir, papana—"
"Ano?!" bahagyang napatakbo si Locket nang humampas si Dad at sa halip na mainis ay mas napangisi lang si Dad doon.
"Tatakbo ka, huh?" ngisi niya.
"H-hindi naman, Prosecutor." He shook his head, "nagulat l-lang."
"Oh, siya, sige, takbo!" halakhak bigla ni Dad at miski ako natakot doon.
"Sir—"
"Run!" Dad hissed at nag-aalangan man ay kumaripas ng takbo si Locket palabas at si Dad ay natawa at ipinalo ng bahagya ang walis sa kabilang palad niya.
"Exercise rin 'to," Dad clicked his neck. "Gago ka, ah. Run, asshole! Tatadtarin kita ng hampas kapag naabutan kitang laughtrip ka!" he then attempted to run pero biglang natigilan.
"Fuck..." napasulyap siya sa tuhod.
"Oh, may arthritis na?" Mom suddenly laughed kaya umirap si Dad sa hangin at umayos ng tayo.
"Huh...don't give me that look, you'll never know what I could still do to you—"
"Seriously?" Adi gasped and Dad smirked at her.
"Baka gusto mo ulit ng kapatid—"
"Iñigo!" Mom hissed and Dad just smiled and stared at his broom again.
"Hoy, Dmitrov! H'wag kang papahuli sa aking laughtrip ka!" sigaw niya bago nagtatatakbo sa labas para habulin si Locket.
Sabay-sabay silang nilingon ako kaya napaayos ako ng tayo at lilingon sana pabalik sa pader pero napadaing nang sumakit ang leeg ko.
"N-na-stiff neck ata ako, help..." I groaned and Mommy gasped, mabilis na lumapit at halos mapaiyak lang ako nang tinulungan niya akong ayusin ang leeg kong sumakit sa tagal ng lingon ko patalikod sa kanila.
Even when my neck is stiffed and painful, sabay-sabay kaming lumabas. Napatakip ako sa bibig nang makitang naghahabulan paikot ang Daddy at si Locket sa may garden ko habang hawak niya ang walis-tambo.
"Come here!" Dad screamed at napahawak sa pwet niya si Locket nang tumama roon ang walis ni Daddy.
"Prosecutor, let me explain—"
"No!" Dad exclaimed at sa bawat takbo ni Locket ay nakikitakbo rin si Chichay sa Tatay niya, akala'y naglalaro sila ng habulan pero ang totoo, siya ang nagpahamak sa Papa Pingu niya.
This brat...is she really pregnant?!
"Anong ginagawa ng gagong 'yan dito?" Alchiel whispered while watching the two running like kids in our garden, si Locket ay halos matumba na kapag naaabot ng tambo ni Dad and my father's almost running out of breath, mapapahawak pa sa tuhod kapag hinihingal pero 'di susuko.
"We...we just talked, okay? Breakfast for together! Nag-thank you lang ako kasi no'ng sa dati." I said and he eyed me suspiciously kaya mas hinilot ko ang neck ko at pinanlakihan siya ng mata.
"Totoo nga!" I exclaimed and he tilted his head, observing me.
"You're lying—"
"Ayan na nga ang sinasabi ko, eh!" Mom hissed kaya natigil kami, sabay kaming napabaling harapan at nakitang bagsak na ang dalawa sa lupa.
My father was catching his breath, nakasalampak. Si Locket ay hingal na hingal na rin pero pinilit pang tumayo at inilahad ang kamay kay Dad habang si Chichay ay energetic, patahol-tahol pa roon sa dalawa.
"Prosecutor, let...let me help you." Locket offered his hand to my Dad pero bumusangot lang ang huli at sinuklay ang buhok niya.
"I don't need your help, I can stand alone." Aniyang seryoso bago tumayo pero biglang napaupo ulit. "Fuck!"
"Sir?" Locket offered his hand again and Dad just stared at it.
"No thanks—"
"Iñigo, just accept the kid's help." Namaywang si Mommy kaya napamura na si Dad at napipilitan pang kinuha ang kamay ni Locket.
"Fuck these hips!" reklamo niya na napahawak pa sa balakang niya nang makatayo na ng maayos.
Mom was shaking her head when she walked towards Dad, mabilis na inabot niya ang baywang ni Dad at ang huli ay pinalo lang ang kamay ni Locket bago umakbay kay Mommy at nagpatulong.
"Nirarayuma na siguro," tawa ni Chiel na lumapit din para tumulong dahil mukha ng mananambang ang Tatay ko.
Dad was glaring at me when they walked pass me kaya ngumiti ako ng alanganin at dali-daling tinakbo si Locket na napapikit pa roon sa labas, hinihingal pa rin.
"Locket..." I called.
"Baby," he puffed a breath when I reached him, nang mahawakan ko siya ay kaagad siyang sumubsob sa balikat ko. "Your Dad's...fuck, he can still run miles!"
I chuckled, nang hawakan niya ang baywang ko ay niyakap ko siya ng unti-unti at natigilan nang maramdamang basa ang kanyang likod.
"Basa ka ng pawis!" I gasped when I felt it.
"Hmm..." he hummed and buried his face more on my neck. "Dry it, Pinga—"
"Sige, harutan...ako na tatambang sa'yo." Napahiwalay kami ng sabay at napasulyap kay Chiel na nakabusangot at nakapaywang sa amin.
"Tss, ang arte mo—"
"Isa, pumasok, Crest Veronica!" he nagged kaya umawang na ang labi ko.
"Nanay ba kita?" I hissed and he only frowned at me then glared at Locket who's miserably gulping now.
"Dad! Si Crest, oh—"
"Oo na, oo na!" I exclaimed and sighed, hinawakan ko ang braso ni Locket. "Papasok na, happy?" I glared at him and he only raised his brow and lifted his finger, showing a lagot sign for Locket.
"Yari ka..." he smirked when Locket almost paled kaya pinanlakihan ko lang ng mata at tatawa-tawa siyang pumasok sa loob ng bahay.
I carried Chichay when she tried jumping on me, pumasok kaming lahat sa bahay at nasalubong kaagad ang pagbusangot ni Daddy habang nakaupo sa sofa, sa kanyang tabi ay si Mom. Chiel was standing on the side, nakahalukipkip at mukhang nang-aasar at si Adi ay lumabas galing kusina na may hawak na tray ng tubig.
"Here, inom muna kayo." Adi said before giving a glass to Dad and Locket who smiled at her.
"Salamat, Attorney." He said.
"Welcome po, h'wag na ang Attorney, Kuya Locket. Adira na lang po or Adi." She smiled gently and my heart felt warm when Locket nodded at her.
"Thank you, Adi." He said and my sister nodded, smiling. Nakita kong sumulyap siya sa hita ko at unti-unting binuhat si Chichay na sumama rin.
She sat on the other sofa, pulling Alchiel with her at nang mapuno kami ng katahimikan ay tumukhim si Locket bago ibinaba ang baso.
"Prosecutor, let me explain—" hindi na niya natapos ang sasabihin nang umambang tatayo ang Dad at susugod.
"Explain, huh?! Hindi pa ako tapos sa'yong bugok ka—fuck!" bigla siyang napahawak sa balakang at ngumiwi, muling napaupo sa sofa.
"Hay naku, Iñigo. Ewan ko sa'yo." Mom sighed and massaged Dad's hips na nakabusangot na roon. "Careful, okay? Hindi ka na bagets para makipaghabulan. Si Lt. Col. s'yempre bata pa 'yan kaya hindi 'yan basta mapapagod pero ikaw—"
"I'm not old, baby." Seryosong sabi ni Dad at nakagat ko para pigilan ang tawa, silently agreeing with him. Yeah, he's of age but he doesn't look old to me, parang same nga lang ang mukha ni Dad noong teenager pa ako, medyo nag-matured lang lalo pero gano'n pa rin, even my Mom!
"R-really? Tumatanda na ba talaga ako?" he asked again when Mom didn't say anything kaya napangiti ito at sinulyapan siya.
"Not really but you always act like a baby," Mom told him.
"Because I'm your baby, right?" Dad smiled back at her at hindi ko alam kung kikiligin ako sa dalawa o tatawa dahil para silang teenager kung maglandian sa harapan namin.
"Uh...is this really necessary?" busangot ni Alchiel at kaagad na nawala ang ngisi ni Dad at bumaling sa kanya.
"Mag-girlfriend ka na para 'di ka na nag-iisa, anak." Dad said instead and Chiel just sighed, glancing at me kaya ngumuso lang ako sa kanya at tumango. He smiled a bit and lowered his head, sumandal siya kay Adi na mukhang nagulat pero hinaplos din ang buhok niya pagkaraan.
Saglit akong tumayo para kumuha ng bimpo at inabot ko kay Mom ang isa para kay Daddy bago ako muling bumalik sa tabi ni Locket at inangat ang damit niya.
He froze, gulat niya akong nilingon kaya pinakita ko sa kanya ang bimpo. He blushed a bit after that pero walang sinabi, tumango siya, nagtatago ng ngiti bago bumaling kina Mommy at Daddy at pumormal.
"Okay, let's get to the point." Ani Mom doon. "Lt. Col., can I ask why are you here in my daughters house early in the morning?"
My heart pounded at that, tahimik kong pinunasan ang likod ni Locket kahit na gusto ko ng magsalita.
"Locket na lang po, Ma'am." Aniya kaya tumango si Mom.
"Alright, Locket." Mommy smiled at him.
"First of all, I wanted to say I'm in love with your daughter, Ma'am, Prosecutor, Attorneys." He said formally, almost stopping me.
I heard him said that but still...this is surreal, parang sasabog ang pakiramdam ko habang naririnig iyon mula sa kanya.
"You probably won't believe me but it's true, I know I made a damage to your family. I've hurt your daughter before, I broke her heart. If I could only turn back time and stop myself from hurting her, I would but I know it's not possible at gusto ko po sanang bumawi." I heard the genuine tone on Locket's voice. "I'm courting your daughter, Ma'am, Sirs. Mahal na mahal ko po si Crest, I hope you'll give me a chance to prove to you and her my feelings."
Enebe, Locket nemen...ang harot.
Gusto kong tumili at mag-twerk sa kilig, kagat-kagat ko ang labi habang patuloy na pinupunasan ang likod niyang pawis.
"Can I ask you something, then?" Dad's cold voice asked kaya dumungaw ako sa balikat ni Locket at nakitang seryoso siya pero kagaya ko'y pinupunasan din ni Mommy ang likod niyang may pawis.
"Yes, your honor." Ani Locket na seryoso kaya parang nasa korte kami.
"My daughter is quite involved in Veronica's death, what can you say about that? I won't be shock if you have violent reactions, you could've leave but seeing you here now in my daughter's house and confessing your feelings...why is it like that? What's your intention?"
"It wasn't Crest's fault, Prosecutor." He said straightforwardly, making me smile more. Inabot ko ang batok ni Locket para punasan at sumilip kay Daddy na malamig ang tingin sa huli, tila binabasa ang ekspresyon.
"Can you further elaborate?" he challenged him and I almost rolled my eyes.
He's being his prosecutor self again...I see.
"Veronica's death and Crest's incident is connected, yes, but no one wanted that to happen, Prosecutor. It wasn't Ver's fault, it wasn't Crest's fault, it wasn't ours. It was solely Eugene's fault. No one else to blame but him." Seryoso niyang sabi and I saw the proud glint on Dad's eyes but it faded when he saw me peeking like a child on Locket's shoulder.
"Anong ginagawa ng laughtrip na 'yan dito, Crest Veronica?!" bumaling siya sa akin kaya suminghap ako at muling nagtago sa likod ni Locket.
"You, brat. Look at me!" he scolded kaya suminghap ako at unti-unting sumilip.
"Locket's just cooking me breakfast—"
"Umagang-umaga nandito 'yan?!" he hissed.
"Prosecutor," tikhim ni Locket. "Malapit lang po ang bahay ko—"
"Share mo lang?" Dad said coldly kaya napaubo na si Locket, halos mabulunan sa laway niya.
"Iñigo!" Mom called and shook her head.
"Tss, you answer me, you brat. I know you're both lying, hindi ako naniniwalang nandito ang laughtrip na 'yan ng maaga para sa breakfast." He stopped and his eyes widened a bit, kinabahan na ako lalo at naramdaman ko rin kaagad ang nerbyos ni Locket.
Don't say it, Dad. Don't say it!
"Unless...don't fucking tell me—"
"Papanagutan ko si Locket, your honor!" I exclaimed loudly, stopping everyone.
Sabay-sabay silang hinarap ako and I almost cursed myself when their mouths parted at my words. Slowly, I flashed an awkward smile.
"I-I mean..." I was shocked when Locket took my hand before kneeling on the floor in front of my parents.
"Papanagutan ko po ang anak niyo, Mr. and Mrs. Sandejas." He said seriously and squeezed my hand kaya nahulog na ang panga ko.
Nagpalipat-lipat ang tingin ni Dad sa akin at kay Locket, gulantang sa naririnig. Mayamaya pa'y napahawak siya sa batok at napapikit.
"Parang...parang tumataas ang blood pressure ko." He said kaya nag-panic kaming lahat at halos takbuhin ni Adi ang kusina para sa panibagong baso ng tubig.
It was freaking epic, kung hindi pa sinabihan ni Mom na tumayo si Locket sa lapag ay hindi pa tatayo ang huli.
Dad was still shocked at the things he's hearing, nakasandal siya sa sofa habang nakahalukipkip, palipat-lipat ang tingin sa akin at kay Locket bago napapangiwi at pipikit, umiiling pa minsan.
"So...let's get this straight. Locket-hijo, you're in love with my daughter, correct?"
Locket squeezed my hand, "yes, Ma'am."
"And he's courting you, Crest?" ani Mom kaya tumango ako, pinipisil pabalik ang kamay ni Locket.
"Papanagutan po namin ang isa't-isa, Mommy." Palaban kong sabi at narinig ko ang tawa ng dalawang kapatid ko.
"Aggressive naman si Bok Joo..." Chiel suddenly whistled kaya sinamaan ko siya ng tingin at ngumisi lang siya.
"Look here," Dad spoke after a while of thinking deeply. "Gusto niyo ang isa't-isa, laughtrip here is courting you, Crest? And yet, hindi pa kayo pero papanagutan niyo ang isa't-isa? Am I comprehending this generation wrong?"
"Loko, don't act as if we weren't like that before, Iñigo Rafael." Mom laughed. "I was your secretary, yes? And yet you call me baby, wala pang tayo niyan, ah?"
My Dad froze but then nodded, "alright...alright, so, bakit hindi mo pa sinasagot kung gusto niyo ang isa't-isa?"
"Keshe...keshe conservative ako, eh." Nguso ko at mahinhin na hinawi ang buhok ko.
"Thallia, p'wede pa ba magpa-adopt ng thirty-one years old?" seryosong baling niya kay Mommy kaya napanganga lang ako nang nagtawanan sila, kasama pa si Locket na gumalaw ang balikat sa lakas ng halakhak niya.
It made me happy when Dad invited Locket to go to the church with us, nagpaalam pa ang huli na magpapalit ng damit and I am expecting na medyo matatagal siya pero wala pang fifteen minutes ay nakabalik na ng fresh na fresh kaya nagtaka ako.
Sumakay ako kay Locket...sa sasakyan niya papunta sa church.
Pagkarating namin ay kumpleto na ang mga kamag-anak ko roon and I saw the thrilled and teasing look on my family's face when they saw I'm with someone.
"Ay, iba naman pala talaga ang charisma ni laughtrip at hindi mabitawan ng favorite pamangks ko." Tawa ni Tito Zeijan kaya nailing ako.
I let go of Locket nang sinama siya ni Dad at Chiel sa mga Tito ko, pumunta naman ako sa mga babae para bumati. I kissed my niece and nephews, promising them I'll buy them foods later after the mass kaya tuwang-tuwa sila.
It made me smile seeing my uncles and my male cousins teasing Locket, nahuli kong nahihiya pa siya noong una pero kalaunan ay natatawa na sa sinabi ng mga ito at nagsasalita na rin.
I love his smiles, I'm living for it. You deserved to be happy, Locket.
Nakuha ko lang ulit si Pingu no'ng nagsimula na ang misa, we were side by side during the mass, tahimik lang dahil nasa church at minus points ako sa heaven kapag may ginawang kalokohan kaya good girl lang ako.
Lord, I love you. Sorry po kung maharot ako...minsan.
During the mass, I can feel our hands would touch briefly, sumulyap ako sa kanyang mukha at nakitang seryoso siya habang nakikinig sa sermon ng pari. Muli akong bumaling sa kamay namin at napangiti nang mapansing ang hinliliit namin ay magkatabi na at dikit.
His hand moved a bit when he felt me staring at it. Marahang pumatong ang kanyang kamay sa akin kaya nakagat ko ang labi at pasimpleng binukas ang palad para mahawakan siya.
"Ang sabi nga sa Proverbs 3:3--Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." The priest said.
Slowly, his fingers filled the gaps in between mine, locking our fingers together and when I lifted my head, our eyes locked and he smiled at me.
"Ay...minus ten kayo sa langit." Biglang may nagsalita sa likod kaya napalingon ako at ngumisi sa akin si Zion at kumindat.
We went to different mass for a hundred times but this one's extra special, when the peace be with you came, I kissed my family and gave other flying kisses since hindi kami nasa iisang row lang.
Marahang sumulyap ako kay Locket na nakangiting bumabati sa pamilya ko at nang nagkatinginan kami ay ngumuso ako.
"Kiss, kiss..." I chanted a bit and he chuckled, when he lowered his head, I closed my eyes, anticipating for his kisses but I felt his lips on my forehead.
"Thank you, Pinga. You're my answered prayer." He whispered and it was the sincerest words I'd ever heard in this life.
Mommy, ihanda ang Traje de boda. I'm getting married!
Kinikilig at malaki ang ngisi ko sa buong duration ng misa, our hands are intertwined, listening to the solemn words from the priest kung hindi ko lang nahuli si Dad na nakabusangot sa aming dalawa.
I smiled at him cutely and he raised his brow at me, sumusulyap sa kamay namin ni Locket na magkahawak habang walang kalam-alam ang huli na minu-murder na kami ng tingin ng Daddy.
I saw Tito Zeijan whispering to my father at nakita ko ang ngisi ni Dad bago tumango at halos mapafacepalm lang si Mommy at nagtawanan ang pamilya nang sunduin ni Tito Dash at Tito Thorn ang pari papunta sa amin.
"Itong dalawa po ang babasbasan, father." Ani Daddy na seryoso kaya nagulat kami ni Locket nang tumayo sa gilid naming dalawa si father at basta na lang kaming pinaliguan ng holy water.
"Daddy?!" I gasped and glared at my Dad who only smiled at me before doing a sign of the cross.
After the mass, we went into a restaurant to eat and bond and it made me happy seeing Locket comfortable with my family, kakwentuhan niya sina Chiel habang nakikipagkulitan ako sa mga pinsan at pamangkin ko.
Hinatid niya rin ako sa bahay no'ng mag-gagabi na at naging abala akong lalo dahil sa simula na ng fashion week.
"Everything ready, Crest?" Tita Natalie, my auntie and my fashion mentor asked if we were ready.
"Yes po," I said gently. "Kaunting rehearsals na lang po sa models."
"Great job," she smiled at me. "I'm so proud of you, Crest. I knew you'd rock the fashion world!" she winked kaya nakangiting niyakap ko siya at nagpasalamat.
"You're welcome, anak. We will start in an hour, hmm? Mayamaya lang ay p'wede ng pumasok ang guests sa runway.
"Mom, Crest..." naghiwalay lang kami nang sumilip ang pinsan kong si Angelo, anak ni Tita Nat, sa kanyang tabi ay ang kanyang maganda girlfriend na ngumiti ng malambing sa akin.
"Gelo, tara na. Let's help Crest prep outside, you should say hi kina Tita Thallia mo." Ani Tita sa kanya. "Philie, hija, shall we go?"
"Sure po," she smiled and waved at me. "I adored your designs so much, Miss Crest."
"Thank you, Philie." I walked towards her for a hug. "Watch ka, ah? I wanna design a gown for you and Gelo's wedding." Baling ko sa pinsan kong napailing pero humawak kay Philie.
"Wow, it's an honor!" she giggled. "Thank you, Crest! We'd love to!"
"Mahal ang talent fee ni Crest, babe." Gelo teased kaya sinipa ko na, natatawa.
"Loko, I would willingly design a gown for our pretty Philie here for free!" I frowned at him. "Pero babayaran mo ang design ko sa gowns at suits ng mga abay, okay? Mahal 'yon." Ngisi ko.
"Alright, alright." Angelo chuckled. "I trust your expertise, magtatrabaho na lang ako ng sobra para may pambayad." Asar pa niya sa akin.
When they left, I readied the team. Inaayusan na ako ng mga make-up artists pero hindi ako matigil sa pag-check kung may kulang pa or kailangang ayusin, medyo kinakabahan pa dahil ito ang kauna-unahan kong taon na magho-host ng fashion week dito sa Pilipinas.
The crowd would compose of excellent and known artists, models and designers locally and internationally and I will open the week with my designs which was such an honor for me. A big achievement since aside from Tita Nat, ako pa lang ang local fashion icon na nabigyan ng opportunity ng ganito.
Lumabas muna ako sa room nang maka-receive ng text mula kay Locket at saglit na nakihalo sa crowd na nag-iikot sa labas, nagtitingin na ng mga designs mula sa ibang designers.
From: Baby Pingu
Hey, baby. I'm really sorry for being late, I have an urgent case I have to attend. Sorry, but I promise hahabol ako. Sorry.
To: Baby Pingu
It's okay, it's a long night, makakahabol 'yan. I understand. Take care!
From: Baby Pingu
Thank you! I love you, baby. I know you'll do a great job. Hahabol ako, Pinga.
A bit sad but I understand naman, he has work today with the boys kaya gano'n talaga.
Papasok na sana ako sa backstage ay natigilan nang may tumawag sa pangalan ko, marahan akong lumingon at nakita si Jellie at Samantha na naroon.
"A guest here too, huh?" ani Jellie na tinignan ako mula ulo pababa sa aking paa.
"Oh, Crest...long time no see!" mukhang nagulat pa si Sam nang makita ako pero ngumiti ng alanganin.
"Hey, fancy seeing you two here, it's been a while." I said and stood straight, showing a formal smile.
"Wala na akong balita sa'yo, didn't you stay in States?" tanong ni Jellie na suot ang isang kulay dilaw na designer clothes.
"Vacation lang," I said.
"Oh, anong pinagkakaabalahan mo ngayon?" Sam asked, smiling.
"Designing," I said. "I am managing a clothing line, Crescent Shines."
"Oh...is that yours?!" nanlaki ang mata ni Sam kaya ngumiti ako at marahang tumango. "Wow, I saw that on stores! You have boutiques in BGC, right? Nakabili ako ng mga damit doon—"
"That doesn't ring a bell to me," Jellie said kaya natahimik si Sam at nilingon siya.
"Oh? 'Di ba, napuntahan—"
"I don't remember cheap clothing lines, eh." Aniya kaya tumiim ang bagang ko.
"Excuse me?" I asked again, trying to be calm with that insult.
"Oh, it's not that I'm insulting, ah?" Jellie covered her mouth. "Oh, I'm sorry, does it sound like it?"
"Jel..." Sam called her, mukhang nahihiya rin.
"What? I'm just saying." She said and smirked at me. "Crescent Shines doesn't ring a bell to me. I only know international clothing lines, and oh, the host for this fashion week, she's my friend, you know?"
Kumunot ang noo ko.
"What?" I asked, confused.
"The host for this fashion week, she's a friend." Aniya roon, "don't worry, ipapakilala kita. Malay mo sa next fashion week dito sa Pilipinas ay may pag-asa na 'yang clothing line mo na ma-feature at hindi ka na lang guest."
I was confused, ngumisi lang si Jellie at hinawi ang buhok bago ako talikuran at naiwan si Sam na nakatingin sa akin.
"I'm...really sorry for that, Crest."
"It's alright," I said, "do you know who the host is?"
"No, no..." iling niya. "The host this year wasn't disclose in public, it's a surprise, I guess. She's a Filipino ata and I heard she's famous and great. Isa pa, you've seen the list ng attendees, right? Mga bigatin kaya maraming curious at um-attend."
"Oh, I see..." I nodded.
"She's just...I'm really sorry for her, we didn't know who the host for tonight is. She's just like that, kahit dati pa naman." She sighed and fixed her hair, "pasensya na sa kanya, Crest. Kakausapin ko."
May dumaang waiter kaya kumuha ako ng wine at sumulyap sa kanya, "it's okay. I understand."
"Pasensya na rin pala noon, Crest." She said. "I know I was immature, we are immature. Hindi tama 'yong nagawa ko...namin."
"Let's bury that behind, Sam." Sagot ko at pormal na ngumiti. "I just hope you learned from it, we learned from the past mistakes."
When she left, I sighed and shook my head. Naglakad ako pabalik sa hall at narinig ang iilang guest na kuryoso sa host ng event kaya mas kinakabahan ako.
It was kept a top secret this year, as per Tita Natalie. Alam ng mga sponsors na ako kaya nag-invest sila ng malaki for this event to take place in happen in one of the most prestigious places in Manila and well, the guests didn't know.
Some of my designs are intentionally leaked in media for public interest and commotion and it worked, a lot of people loved it, mga bigating public figure ang nabigyan ng imbitasyon at pumunta kaya matunog sa madla.
When I got to the backstage, everything is set. Malaki ang ngiti ko at proud na proud nang makitang suot na ng mga modelo ang mga dress at gowns na idinisenyo ko para sa event na 'to.
The motif for the fashion week is about fairytales and happy endings, kaya magical ang set at stage pati na rin ang designs.
The dresses my team and I come up are runaway princesses for our models, they're wearing pastel color gowns filled with glitters, some are with butterflies and florals but I made a dark twist. Everything to make the clothes astig and pretty at the same time.
"You're all amazing, everyone!" masaya kong sabi kaya nagpasalamat sila sa akin.
"Salamat, Ma'am. Ang galing niyo po!" Dani said while wearing her pretty gown with the same motif.
"Oh, no. It's not just me, kung wala kayo ay hindi rin natin magagawa 'to kaya we are all amazing, right?" I smiled softly at natawa nang magpalakpakan sila at batiin din ang isa't-isa.
While they are busy fixing my hair, inayusan ko si Chichay na tumataba nga talaga ng outfit niya for today. Ping-ping has a pretty dress too, nakaupo sa dresser ko.
I fixed her dress almost resembling mine, ang kaso nga lang ay pastel pink ang kay Chichay. She has a cute top and skirt. I let her wear a pair of boots before putting a cute crown on her head.
"Ayan, very pretty ka na." I told her while she's looking at me, tuwang-tuwa rin na inaayusan ko siya. "Ikaw ha, ipapa-vet kita ngayong week. Yari ka kapag buntis ka, Chay. Ipapakasal kita sa Chihuahua sa kapitbahay."
Pinakitaan niya ako ng pangil niya kaya natawa na ako at hinalikan ang ulo niya.
"Harot mo, inunahan mo pa akong lumandi." I said, chuckling. Kinuha ko ang heart-shaped shades doon bago ko isinuot sa mata niya bago siya pakawalan para mahiga sa pink niyang higaan sa tabi ko.
When the host started the night by giving a background sa mga sumali sa fashion week, they also gave a background to my clothing line but still not naming it kaya kinakabahan na ako.
"You can do it! Fighting!" Dad said when they visited me backstage with Mom and my two siblings.
"I'm nervous,"
"Oh, don't be." Mom smiled proudly. "I am telling you, you are amazing. The clothes are outstanding, the set up too! I heard a lot of people talking about how excited they are meeting the host."
"Oo, Ate. Narinig ko nga 'yong isang artista roon sa labas, gusto kaagad magpa-schedule ng appointment sa'yo!" Adi giggled kaya napangiti na ako.
"Really?"
"You can do this, kambal. Ang galing-galing mo nga, eh!" Chiel said while wearing her formal suit like Dad kaya mas napangiti ako.
"Salamat, gorgeous fam. I love you all!" I said before moving for a tight group hug.
"You are great, princess. Trust me, you'll nail this one." Dad said gently while touching my hair kaya mas napangiti ako.
"Thank you, everyone. Every one of you are my inspiration kaya natapos ko 'to." I said gently and Chiel then cleared his throat.
"You can do it, Crest!" aniya bago bumaling sa pamilya ko. "One, two, three...go!"
"Sweeeggg!" all of them said and showed me a pogi sign kaya umawang na ang labi ko at nagtawanan silang lahat.
The first one to walk on the runway are the models featuring the majestic and vintage gowns, the typical princesses look, mga pastel ang kulay ng suot with their high heels and soft make-ups, ang mga naunang modelo at pagkabalik nila'y kaagad na nagpalit.
Even in my full outfit and look, tumulong ako sa mga staff kong ayusan ang mga modelo namin.
Ang sumunod naman na pumasok ay ang mga modelo na may suot ng dresses, mas maikli kaysa sa gown kanina, mukhang pinunit ang ibabang parte nito para sa disenyo at sinadyang iksian. It was almost the same as the princess look earlier but with a twist this time. Instead of heels, they are wearing boots or rubber shoes. I made sure they will look strong, on their arms are lines, looking like creeping veins.
The second look are more rugged and stronger looking than the first one, mas matapang din ang make-up ng mga modelo ngayon and my models aren't just the petite models, I got models in plus sizes too.
Reason? I believe beauty and fashion has no shape. It is for everyone.
Thee third ones are my most favorite one, the models are now wearing dark wardrobes, black, gray and nude colored fitted dresses, this time, I made them look like a warrior ready for battle while still looking majestic and classy.
I can hear loud claps and praises outside kaya nagkakatinginan kami ng mga kasama ko at kagaya ko'y kinakabahan din sila pero natutuwa.
"Heard that?" I asked, "that's for every one of us here." I said proudly.
"Ma'am, ikaw na raw po ang susunod." Ngiti ni Dani kaya niyakap ko siya at tumango.
"I'm nervous,"
"You can do this, Ma'am! You're a great designer and model, also you're a great employer to us kaya proud na proud kami sa'yo. I know you can nail this, right, guys?" baling niya sa team at halos maluha ako ng magsigawan sila ng oo at pinalakpakan ako.
Chichay was beside me while waiting for us to be introduced. Sa kanyang likod ay may maliit na bag kung nasaan nakaupo si Ping-ping na naka-pink na damit din.
"And finally!" the host chuckled, "I know everyone is curious who the creator of those outstanding dresses and gowns, right?"
"Yes!" I heard voices outside kaya mas kinabahan ako at sinulyapan si Chichay na feel na feel ang shades niya.
"Chay, we can do this, hmm?" I called and she lifted her head at me and barked kaya ngumiti ako. "Good girl."
"And now...let me introduce to you the host for this year's fashion week, the brilliant mind behind those astonishing designs, one of the most sought designers of this generation. The founder and owner of Crescent Shines Luxury Clothing. The amazing, beautiful and gorgeous...everyone, a big round of applause for Miss Crest Veronica Castuares Sandejas!"
In a cue and in the beat of the music, I walked confidently with Chichay beside me out of the stage. The spotlight focused on us and I heard applause and exclaims in the crowd but I remained neutral.
My gray ombre hair was emphasized with my vintage looking hairstyle, my hair was fixed in a deep side part with large loose curls, giving more details to the gray strands of it.
I am wearing a dark and bold lipstick and the make-up made sure to highlight my strong and sharp features I got from my mother.
I was wearing a brown coat and belt while walking and I slowly reached for it, unti-unti ko iyon kinalas at inihulog sa lapag, I made a remarkable and classy turn at mas lumakas ang palakpakan nang makita nila ang damit na suot ko.
It was a mauve colored corset gown with bust cups, fitting my body perfectly. It is an A-cut dress made of satin, lace and chiffon decorated in floral embellishments and glitters. My collar bones and shoulders are on full view with the detachable off-shoulder puff sleeves.
In high slits, I glided my legs confidently, showing the crowd my black combat boots instead of high heels and when I am near the host, a proud smile left my mouth when I saw the noisy crowd and my cheering family, nagtataas pa ng banner ang mga lalaki kaya nailing na ako, natatawa.
When I reached the host, halos malula pa ako sa lakas ng palakpakan. I saw the people adoring everything, some are even with their phones up, recording me. Kasama si Dad na nasa gilid ng stage at bini-video-han ako kaya nag-peace sign ako roon at tumawa siya.
"Anak ko 'yan!" sigaw niya kaya mas lumakas ang hiyawan at mas napangiti ako.
"Wow! Just wow!" the host gasped and clapped his hand, "that was one of a kind wardrobe change, Miss Sandejas! Outstanding! You did great! Isa pa, you walked with your..."
"Oh, thank you, these are my daughters." I said while pointing Ping-ping and Chichay na mukhang nag-e-enjoy sa atensyon ng mga tao sa kanya.
Narinig ko ang tawanan, they said they look adorable and cute kaya mas napangiti ako.
Naman, mga anak ko ata 'yan!
"Anong pangalan nila, Miss Crest?" he asked kaya mahinang sinabi ko at tumango siya at bumaling sa crowd.
"Once again, let's give a round of applause to Miss Crest and her...uh, daughters, Ping-ping and Chichay Sandejas-Dmitrov!" aniya at napatawa ako ng bahagya pero natigilan din nang may mahagip ang mata ko sa crowd na nakatitig at pumapalakpak.
"Pingu..." I muttered.
Halos 'di ko na marinig ang sinasabi ng host dahil nakatitig lang ako kay Locket na naka-formal suit. I've seen him in his shirt, uniform and dress shirts but right now, parang tutulo ang laway ko.
Lorcan Keith's hair is newly and cleanly cut, the dark green suit he's wearing hugged his chiseled chest. Bukas ang butones sa itaas ng kanyang puting dress shirt sa loob, his slacks has the same color as his suit and his gray eyes looked darker while looking at me from the crowd.
Pasimple kong hinawakan ang baywang ko, pinipigil na mag-twerk bigla sa nakikita.
Underwear, kumapit ka, please. Hindi ka p'wedeng mahulog muna kay Lorcan Keith! Santisima!
"Miss Sandejas?"
"H-huh?"
"What can you say to everyone who attended tonight's event?" aniya kaya ngumiti ako bago inabot ang microphone.
"First of all, I wanted to say thank you. Thank you so much for giving us, Crescent Shines the opportunity to open this year's fashion week. It is such an honor." I smiled gently. "Sa guests, sa sponsors, sa family and friends ko na pumunta. Maraming salamat for giving me a chance to showcase the team's design and hard work."
Mula sa malayo ay nakita ko ang gulat na mukha ni Jellie at Sam. Si Jellie ay napailing bago mabilis na tumalikod at umalis at tinakbo siya ni Sam at sumunod kaya nagkibit-balikat na lang ako at ibinalik sa host ang microphone.
"What an amazing wardrobe feature, Miss Sandejas! We can definitely feel the magic from it!" He praised, making me smile.
"Thank you." I said, feeling the happiness inside my heart with his words.
"The crowd is curious, Miss Sandejas? Can you tell us more about the features? Seems like it was three themes, right? Yes, it does look like our theme, fairytales and happy endings but I felt like it's more than that, the dark ones sa huli, that's chilling yet beautiful at the same time. We're curious, please tell us more."
I took the mic and smiled, hinawi ko ang buhok ko ng bahagya at bumaling sa likod kaya ang tig-dadalawang model sa tatlong tema ay lumabas sa backstage para muling i-feature ang iilang disenyo.
"When I was brief about the theme months ago, I easily got excited. I told myself I am ready to showcase the fairytale I am visioning since I was a kid but as I was outlining and talking to my team, I realized fairytale and happy ending is more than a princess and a prince, it's more than love...fairytales and happy endings is more of the life." I started off and glanced at my models.
"For the first features my gorgeous models are wearing. You can see how a typical princess look, soft, feminine, shy. The second one looks more of a rebel, you can see here the torn hem of the skirt and the shoes and the last ones are the lady fighters, the warriors. I wanted to show everyone a woman can be beautiful in every look, attitude and shapes. It may be shy, confident, a rebel and a warrior. They are all beautiful.
"As for the theme, my team and I come up with a story, wherein it's about a woman's life, the first one, the princesses." Turo ko sa unang mga disenyo. "The story would revolve around a girl, the girl who everyone thought was always cheerful, happy, carefree. Everyone thought wala siyang problema, na masaya lang siya sa buhay niya. Everyone thought she's got everything she wanted that she wouldn't like to wish anything more pero mali sila.
Tinuro ko ang pangalawa, "despite the smile, the girl in the fairytale has something dark inside. Despite the happy face she's showing, she wanted to scream inside, to just run away with her shoes on, to wipe the happy look on her face. Every fairytale has dark twists and turns and the second look is the girl's feelings inside. She wanted to stop the monsters from chasing her but she has no power to do so, she was scared and weak. She was terrified and the last one is about the girl finally overcoming her fears."
I smiled and remembered the hard things before but right now, it doesn't scare me anymore. They are now a memory, a lesson learned and my fuel of strength.
"The last look is about the girl becoming her own warrior herself, she stood up for herself, not waiting for a prince charming to do it for her. Instead, her prince helped her to be stronger for herself." Sumulyap ako kay Locket na nakatitig sa akin at ngumiti. "She ripped her gown and wore her strongest armor, bravery.
"She stood for herself, taking the sword on her own palm. I believe...the girl believes that a true happy ending is not about the prince killing the dragon, it's about the princess overcoming her fears, slaying the dragon herself because she can." I said in finality and looked at the crowd who's already clapping hard in awe and amazement.
I almost cried in happiness when I got nothing but praises from people and the fashion icons I looked up to before. It made me happy that my once buried dreams are right here, in the palm of my hands after years of struggles and pain...my happy ending is finally approaching.
"Congratulations," my eyes almost watered when I saw Locket approaching with a bouquet of daffodils on his hand.
"Pingu!" I sighed and almost jumped on him at natatawang sinalo niya ako at niyakap. He placed his palm on my waist, kissing my hair.
"You did great, baby. I am so proud of you." He whispered kaya mahigpit ko siyang niyakap at napapikit.
"Thank you, Pingu. I am so happy, thank you." I whispered back.
"You're amazing, it's just that, I apologize for being late. Hindi ko tuloy naumpisahan." Aniya. "Rush na, sorry. Nagmamadali lang kaming apat papunta rito no'ng mga pangit mong anak kaya 'di nakapag-ayos."
"What? Hindi pa ba ayos iyan, Lorcan Keith?" I gasped while still hugging him, sniffing his perfume. "Ang gwapo-gwapo mo nga, uy! Grabe ka, hindi pa ba rush iyan?"
"Nah, if this isn't rush. I bet just by seeing me, your undies would fall." Halakhak niya habang bumubulong kaya suminghap na ako.
"Huh! Akala mo lang, muntik na kaya!" I hissed kaya mas natawa siya.
"Really, huh?" tawa niya. "Tss, I shouldn't have rushed myself para nahulog na talaga."
"You...perv!" I hissed pero mas tumawa lang siya at halos mapisat na ako sa yakap.
"You're amazing, I really love you." Bulong niya at hinalikan ang leeg ko kaya kinilig ang not-so-marupok Crest Veronica.
"Kilig naman ako, Pingu. Naku, mamaya niyan pakasalan na kita sa kaharutan mo!" I hissed at tumawa siya.
"I was in awe, you know? I wanted to shout that's my girlfriend kaso 'di mo pa pala ako sinasagot." Bulong niya kaya natawa na ako at bahagyang lumayo, sinasapo ang kanyang pisngi at nakita ang lambot sa mga abong mata niya.
"Edi okay." I said while staring at his eyes kaya nanlaki ang mata niya.
"W-what..."
"Tayo na, sinasagot ka na ni Crest-ganda, Locket-bakat." I said in a small voice and I saw his mouth parted in shock at napatili na lang ako nang malakas nang mahulog niya ang bulaklak para buhatin ako.
"She said yes!" he exclaimed and twirled me around while screaming kaya napatawa na ako nang malakas nang magpalakpakan sila.
"Yehey! Happy family na!" my baby penguins screamed. Si Earn ay binubuhat si Chichay sa ere kasama si Ping-ping.
"Ano 'yan, kasalan na?!" Tito Dash asked nang maibaba ako ni Locket at si Dad sa tabi niya ay nakanganga sa aming dalawa.
"U-uy, sinagot ko pa lang si Locket, Tito!" I gasped, "advance kayo, ah! Pero sorry, may jowa na ako!" ngisi ko.
"Ah, boyfriend pa lang naman daw, Iñigo, kalma." Tawa ni Tito Thorn kay Daddy na nakatulala sa aming dalawa.
"Ah, sayang. Pakasal na kayo, uy. Gusto nito ni Kuya Raf ng apo na, inggit sa amin. Puti na kasi buhok niya tapos wala pang tumatawag ng Lolo Iñigo." Ani Tito Zeij na nagtunog matanda pa pero biglang sumigaw at umalis nang ambahan ng hampas ng Tatay kong pikon.
My team and my whole family had an amazing afterparty for the successful event and it was filled with laughters and picture takings.
"Oh, slice na ng cake, Madame!" ani Earn na inaabot sa akin ang kutsilyo para mag-slice sa celebratory cake para sa event na ito.
Beside me is Locket, sa may harapan ang pamilya ko na kuha ng kuha ng pictures at ang team ko ay naroon, lahat ay masaya kaya masaya ako.
"Before I slice the cake, I just wanted to say thank you for everyone here, you guys are my inspiration in making this far. Sa team ko, salamat sa inyo dahil kung wala kayo ay hindi magiging kompleto ang event na ito. Our success is my success, I thank you for your dedication and hardwork! Sa family ko, alam kong may mga plans and work kayo but you cancelled it all for me and I am so happy for everyone joining me here, salamat sa time niyo! Dad, Mom, Adi and Chiel-pangit, thank you sa time at love niyong lahat!" I smiled gently.
"Also, to my baby penguins here, Earn, Brent and Adam tapos si Chichay and Ping-ping tapos s'yempre...si..." I giggled. "Ang boyfriend kong gwapo. Hihi! Love you po, sagad." I covered my mouth kaya nagtawanan sila.
"You brat," Locket chuckled and touched my waist kaya tinaas ko ang champagne glass at ipinakita sa kanila.
"Cheers to us, everyone! Congratulations to our success!" I cheered and they all rose their glasses before drinking it.
I sliced a cake after that and Zy called my attention.
"May nalaman ako, Crest-ganda." Ani Zy kaya sinulyapan ko siya. "Ang sabi nila kapag nag-slice ka ng cake, ang unang susubuan mo ay 'yong taong pinakamamahal mo rito."
"Oh?"
"Yes," he winked. "Sige nga, isubo mo 'yan sa pinaka." Tawa pa niya at natawa rin ako nang umikot ang tingin ko kina Locket at sa pamilya kong nakangiti sa akin.
I raised the fork with the piece of cake and looked around and chuckled when I realized they're waiting kung kanino ko ibibigay. My uncles began teasing Dad and my family while sina Earn naman ay si Locket na mukhang nagulat din at umiling sa kanila, halos tambangan na ang mga huli sa hiya.
The person I love most in this room?
Sumulyap ako sa cake na nasa tinidor na hawak ko at nakita ang sarili sa repleksyon sa salamin sa hindi kalayuan. I suddenly realized how strong I was, that despite the pain, I am still standing strong. That I was in the verge of drowning before but I fought against the currents and learned how to swim against it. I realized the woman I've become the past few years.
I become my own warrior.
"Nakapili na ako!" I cheered happily kaya natahimik sila.
"Sino? Sino, dali, Crest-ganda." Tawa ni Tito Zeij, "gusto ko makanuod ng naudlot na sparring session ni Kuya Raf at Laughtrip!"
I just smirked and raised the fork.
"The person I love the most in this room is...myself." I said before tasting the cake, earning laughs and applause from the crowd. I am proud of myself. I love myself the most.
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