CHAPTER 7

"Wait, why does it seem like this gift you gave me is expensive? What if Jane gets jealous?" she asked with a playful tilt of her head, her voice carrying a hint of concern.

Caleb gently tousled her hair, his fingers lingering for a moment as he took a deep breath before responding. The soft rustle of leaves in the background accompanied the quiet moment between them.

"It's because Mang Delfin told me you wanted to go to college in Manila," Caleb explained, his tone thoughtful. "You know, Patricia, it's good here too. It can be tough diving into the city all of a sudden—no familiar faces, and without me around, there's no big brother to watch over you," he added, his words laced with a gentle chuckle.

Patricia couldn't help but giggle in response, her laughter brightening the serene atmosphere around them. "I'm fine, really. And as for any thoughts about boyfriends, Kuya Caleb, that's not in my plans right now. My focus is on studying diligently," she assured him, her voice carrying a