Dion’s POV
"We're here."I watched her take off the seatbelt. Based on her actions, it looks like she's really in a hurry to leave. Feels like, she’s avoiding me.I got out of my car to open the door for her."I can do it on my own. I don't need your help,”she said without emotion."Yeah, fine."When she finally came out, she walked straight towards the blue gate. That’s probably their house.Ts. She didn’t even say thank you.“Not even gave me a single glance,” I mumbled to myself. But I can’t hate her just for that reason. I know she's kind, unfortunately, not with me.I watched her enter the gate. When I made sure she was at their house, I got back in my car.I was about to go when I saw Vida talking with a guy when I peek on the window. The guy is wearing a plain white t-shirt and black trousers. He is not facing my direction so I couldn’t see his face but I clearly saw how he tapped Vida’s head. Who is he? Is he a brother? Friend? CousinCindy's POV"Yes, Mom. I promise!""Come back right away, huh? I'm alone here," Mommy Gadi said while busy on her laptop."M'kay, I'm leaving. ""Go."I quickly picked up my bag from the table. I told Mommy I was going to meet Cole at their house in St. Hardin. I want to surprise him since he left here a while ago and seems to be in a hurry to get back there. He didn't even tell me that he was leaving. I just knew it when Tita Dawn told me."Oh, I forgot something!" I went upstairs to see my mom."Chup!" Mommy was startled.Oh, c'mon, Cindy! Why don't you even knock?" She exclaimed, while holding her breast.I laughed at her. "Mom, sorry. I forgot to kiss you earlier. " And she smiled at me. I hugged her from the back."I should get going.""Okay, take care, my Cindy," then kissed me on the forehead."I may look childish to anyone, but I won't stop doing this to my Mom, even when I get older. I'm still dowering with her like a baby eve
[Dion's Point of View]"Faye?""Dion. W-why are you here?" she stammered."Uhh," I paused to think of what I should reason to her. Shall I say that that ugly man threw away the letter I wanted to give to Vida?"I just ... I just want to talk to Vida.""Vida? Why? What happened?" she asked in succession."Well — uhm. Actually, it's a long story. I'll tell you once Vida and I can talk.""Ah, all right. I understand." She looked away from me when I smiled at her."Come inside," she enticed me. Faye opened the gate but she was the first to enter before me.“Oh, Kuya Vincent? Have you been there before? ” Faye asked in shock when she noticed that the ugly guy was looking to us. So, he’s Vincent? Tss.“Vida is resting. If you plan to talk to her, don't do it now," he changed the subject. His eyes were fixed on me. “E? That’s okay, Kuya. Vida won't get mad at me. ”Instead of answering, he simply turned his back on us. He really is a rude!“Sorry
Vida's Point of View]“Unwilling beforewhy a heavy, heart forgivebetrayed by the artsI hope you give me a chance to explain.It was unintentional.Nobody came up with the idea.It was bound to happen.I'm the one who has to apologize.because of what she didShe simply rushes in with her emotions.We're not so dissimilar.I swear to you,We can construct a bridge.Across the chasm that separates usIf you give me a chance,To say the words that have formed—not in my head, but in my heartI beg your pardon.”“Nice! Wow!I hope everyone is given this poem, hahaha. It’s enviable,” said Faye, after she snatched the paper from my hand.“Tss. What's enviable? It's annoying. He wrote it in English. How can I understand that now? ”Honestly, the expression on her face doesn't really convince me that she's actually jealous. It's like she's just really teasing me.She hit me on the arm. "Are you serious? The
[Vida’s Point of View]"Am I ready?" I immediately glared at myself in the mirror when I realized what I had said. Why would I prepare? Is this a competition? There isn't even a recitation or exam, so why am I nervous? I'm just going to Mr. Camero's house.“Calm down, Vida. They must be the ones who are feeling nervous because they will see you again. They should be the ones, not you, "I convinced myself.After tidying up, I took my bag out. Earlier, when I came home, Grandma was no longer at home. But not because she is still working, but because she will attend Lola Anesia’s birthday celebration. Actually, I was also invited, but unfortunately I can't go because I still have work. I already reminded Lola Clarita of what's not allowed for her, so I am reassured. And I hope she enjoys the celebration to reduce her stress as well.I just commuted to Mr. Camero's house since Faye said that they have a group project, so she can’t deliver me again. But I understand
[Dion's Point of View]It's already 2 am, yet I still can't sleep. I feel so tired. It's like a lot is bothering my mind.I sat up from lying down and heaved a sigh. I went to the kitchen and got a glass of water to drink.“Vida. Vida. Vida..." I rubbed my face using my palm. It's been 4 days since her last visit here at our house. Her grandmother had been rushed to the hospital, and she needed to focus on her temporarily. I understand her situation, of course. But there's a part of me that wants to see her. I want to see her and make sure she's fine.Because yesterday, I just knew that Vida only lived with her Lolain that apartment. I was worried about her condition. She's studying and working at the same time. What if she gets sick? Who will help her if her grandmother is also sick?"Where are her parents?" For the second time, I took a deep breath. I wish I could help.I took my phone out and the picture of Vida showed on my lockscreen again. The corners of my
[Dion's Point of View]Earlier, Cindy repeatedly called me, so I was forced to answer her. She wanted to enter the campus, but I told her that she couldn't enter without an accompanying So I had no choice but to see her because she told me that she was already waiting outside.Cindy was carrying a lunch box for me. I didn't want to accept it, but I also took it because I didn't want to embarrass her. But when she finally left, I gave her the lunch with which I had collided.It's good that the stranger accepted it.I'm a good cousin, but I just can't help but be annoyed sometimes with Cindy. When I was about to enter the gate, I saw Vida standing alone. I was curious about why she was there, so when I heard their argument with the guard, I didn't hesitate to help her. I had to pretend that I was her friend, though it was so impossible to happen. But I didn't expect what I did. I didn't plan to put my arms around her shoulders. It's subtle, I guess.But I think I made a
[Dion’s Point of View]"Why are we here?" asked Vida.I really like her mad expression while talking to me. Sometimes, it's fun to tease her."Because I want to," I explained.We’re at Café Nipa right now. This is one of the most frequented by people here in our town. The view is very beautiful because the place is high and we can see the houses and some establishments in the low area.I went straight to the second hut, which was still vacant. Vida also followed me. "Just wait for me here. I'll just order something to eat. ” I didn’t receive any response from her. But I think I’m already used to it. She's always like that, though."By the way, may I know what you want? Coffee? Dessert? Or something?” She just picked up her phone and ignored me for the nth time. I sighed.So, I'm just going to guess what she's going to eat.Then, I went to the counter. I looked up at the signboard to choose what to buy."What's your order, Sir?" asked the counter attend
[Vida's Point of View]"Oh? Vida. Why are you so quick to go home? It's not even five o'clock.""Our adviser sent us home immediately. They said they had a meeting," lied. I can't tell Grandma the truth. She might scold me when she finds out. What I said to Dion earlier was just a joke.Tss. The jerk entered the conversation again."Your arrival is just right. I'm cooking soup. It'll be cooked soon. Change your clothes first, or you might dry out with sweat," she said.I immediately followed her and went to my room. I dropped my body on the bed and closed my eyes.A lot has happened today. It's tiring. It's extremely vexing. I really can't be with Dion for long because I won't stay away from misfortune.It's just like before when I went to their school. It's a good thing Kuya Vincent was there to defend me from those bitches.Later, when he comes home, I should thank him."Oops, there's another one!" Suddenly, another misfortune that Dion had caus
[Vida’s Point of View]Wala sa sarili akong naglakad-takbo pabalik roon sa guidance office. Walang ibang pumapasok sa utak ko kundi ang ginawang pagyakap sa akin ni Dion. Sobra akong naapektuhan sa ginawa n’ya.“Vida, sa’n ka galing?” salubong sa akin ni Faye na kalalabas lang rin mula sa loob ng office. Pero imbes na sagutin ko s’ya ay hinila ko ang kan’yang braso at dire-diretsong naglakad.“Teka, Vida. Vida. Vida!” Tumigil ako nang nagpumiglas s’ya sa pagkakahawak ko. “Umalis na tayo dito. Please?”“Wait ngae.” Tumigil s’ya sandali at pinagmasdan ako mula ulo hanggang paa. “May nangyari ba? Sinaktan ka ba ni Dion?-Omg! P-pinarusahan ka ba ng gonggong na ‘yon?”Umiling-iling ako sa kan’ya. “O, e ano? Ang putla mo kaya.” Umiwas ako ng tingin dahil sa sinabi ni Faye.Maputla ba talaga ako? Grr.“W-wala. Basta gusto ko na umalis dito. Tutal tapos naman na magperform si Kuya Vincent.”Tinanguan n’ya ako saka hinawakan ang aking braso. Walang ibang dumadaan dito sa hallway maliban sa
[Dion’s Point of View]“What’s happening here?”“D-Dion…” Si Kenji. Ano na naman kaya ang ginawa n’yang kalokohan? As I remember, last week lang nang may nakaaway s’yang sophomore. He’s not learning…“VicePres, this trash started the chaos. S’ya dapat ang pagsabihan mo,” Hazel stated referring to Vida, who is now looking away from me. I was silent for a moment, pinagmasdan ko muna silang lahat saka napabuntong-hininga. “Do you guys even know why you came here? Hindi ba’t may event tayo ngayon? We’re all here to compete, to support and to have fun. Nobody told you to start a chaos just to ruin this event. Isn’t it the rule here?” I remained firm and serious while saying those words. “Outsider ka man o hindi, if you can’t respect the rules in this campus, then you are free to leave. JUST LEAVE…”“Pero bago kayo umalis, you have to come first in the guidance office. Si President Jorge at Mrs. na ang bahala sa inyo.”“Dion…” mahinang tawag sa akin ni Faye.“What?”“Ahmm, pati ba kami sa
[Vida's Point of View]"Faye, ayaw ko nga. May intrams din naman bukas, isa pa nagbubuo pa ako ng idea para sa poster making contest. Hindi ako sasama." "Dear, minsan lang naman. Sige na, please?" Kanina pa ako inaakit ni Faye na pumunta sa SNIHS, sa school nila Kuya Vincent at Dion pero patuloy naman akong tumatanggi. Hindi na magbabago isip ko, hindi ako sasama. Hindi pa ako handa na makita ulit si Dion. "Sure na? Final decision mo na 'yan? 'Di ka talaga sasama?" "Final na." Nagkibit-balikat ako. Kaagad namang natahimik si Faye at saka kunyareng naging abala sa kan'yang cellphone. "Faye...'wag ka na magtampo." "Hindi no. Okay lang," pagsisinungaling n'ya pa."Sorry na nga." "'Wag ka magsosorry. Okay lang talaga.""Tss. Ngiti ka. Ayaw kong maguilty." Hinawakan ko s'ya sa braso saka inuga-uga pagkatapos ay payak siyang ngumiti. Napabuntong-hininga ako saka tumingin sa malayo. "Oh, may iniisip ka?" S'ya naman ngayon ang lumapit sa'kin."Actually wala. Pero kung magtatampo ka dah
[Dion’s Point of View]“Can I come with you? Please, please.”Here we go, again.“Dion, just let her. Mabobore lang dito si Cindy mamaya dahil wala kami dito ng Daddy mo. Darating sila Gov. Padua at Mayor Del Monte this afternoon, sa restaurant natin nila napiling dumiretso para kumain. So, we have to accommodate them lalo pa at marami-rami na ulit ang ating customers,”ani Mommy.“Yes, Mom. I knew it. But Cindy can’t really accompany me. Busy ako mamaya sa school, hindi ko rin s’ya maaasikaso-““As if magpapaasikaso ako? C’mon, Cole. I am not a kiddo anymore. I just wanted to come with you para manood ng activities n’yo sa Intrams. Since nasabi naman ni Tita na pwede roon ang outsiders. So, why are you not letting me? May tinatago ka ba?” I just scratched the back of my neck in disgust. Hindi naman sa ayaw ko talaga, I just have this feeling na baka may mangyari kapag nagpumilit s’yang sumama.“Cole, please?” Pero ano pa ba ang magagawa ko? Mukhang ayaw n’ya papigil. I know she won’
[Vida's Point of View]Dito ako dinala ng mga paa ko sa Cafè Nipa kasama si Kuya Vincent. Marami namang mas magandang kainan pero dito kasi ako dinala ng tadhana. Ano bang magagawa ko?"You've been here before?" tanong ni Kuya Vincent."Huh? Ah—oo, Kuya. No'ng minsan na kumain kami rito ni Faye.""Oh? Kelan ka pa nahilig gumala?" Pinalo ko naman s'ya ng mahina sa braso. "Grabe ka naman. S'yempre gumagala rin ako, hindi nga lang madalas."Nagtuloy-tuloy kami sa counter para umorder ng pagkain. Hinayaan n'ya na lang ako na mamili ng gusto ko bago kami pumili ng kubo na aming pagkakainan.Hindi ko alam kung ano ang pumasok sa isip ko pero doon ako dumiretso sa isang kubo na kung saan kami dati kumain ni Dion. Arrgh, naalala ko na naman 'yong nangyari kanina. "So, may sasabihin ka?""Ha? A-anong sasabihin?" pagkabigla ko."You told me earlier—""Ahhh, oo. Saka na lang Kuya pagkatapos natin kumain.""No. It's a waste of time. Dapat magkwento ka na sa'kin habang kumakain tayo. That's bett
[Vida's Point of View]Sa tuwing maaalala ko o nakakakita ako ng mga bagay-bagay na konektado sa mama at papa ko, hindi ko maiwasang malungkot. Sino ba naman ang hindi ang malulungkot? Haha. Kung kahapon, tawang-tawa pa ako sa 'hotdog seller' eksena ni Dion, ngayon parang nakakapagsisi na pinagtawanan ko 'yon. Naalala ko na iniiwasan ko nga pala ang hotdog at hipon kasi namimiss ko lang lalo ang magulang ko. Malaki ang kaugnayan nito sa kanila, at hindi ko talaga maiwasan na maiyak tuwing sumasagi sa isip ko. Kahit pa sabihin na ang oa ko kasi pagkain lang naman 'yon. "Vida, I really need your help. Samahan mo ako mamili." Kanina lang pagkatapos ko magsaing, bigla akong tinawagan ni Dion para humingi sa 'kin ng tulong mamili ng hotdog na inorder sa kan'ya ng mga kasamahan ni Lola sa trabaho."Hindi ako sasama. Kasalanan mo na 'yan, panget mo kasi magsinungaling. Bahala ka mamili mag-isa. " Akala n'ya siguro, kaibigan na talaga ang turing ko sa kan'ya. "Hey, Vida? Don't end the call
[Dion's Point of View]I've been waiting for Vida for almost 20 minutes now pero hindi pa rin s'ya lumalabas mula roon sa loob ng shop na pinasukan n'ya kanina. What if puntahan ko na lang s'ya doon?Without a second thought, naglakad ako papalapit sa shop na iyon hindi rin kalayuan dito sa kotse ko. I pushed the glass door at agad na bumungad sa 'kin ang mga mananahi na nag-uumpukan sa isang lamesa na kumakain. Their attention is on me. Bigla akong dinapuan ng hiya. "A-ahh...hello po," saka ako weird na ngumiti. Their eyes were fixed on mine. Mga ilang segundo bago may isang nagsalita sa likuran ko."Ano'ng kailangan mo, otoy?" Lumingon ako sa kan'ya at nagbigay-galang sa pamamagitan ng pagyuko ng ulo ko ng mabilis. She looks nearly 60's at her age. "Hello po.""Hello. Magpapatahi ka ba? Halika rito para masukatan kita," nakangiti niyang sabi. She looks kind, it made me feel less nervousness. "Ah, hindi po. Magtatanong lang po sana ako," I said."Oh? Ano 'yon?" Napasulyap ako sa
[Faye's Point of View]Was my decision really right? No.It will never be right because it is a big mistake for me to answer the person I don't like."Love, are you free later?" Ken asked as he hugged me from behind. I was not comfortable. That's why I immediately removed his arm that was wrapped around me."Uhh... I don't know. I'll be busy later, I-I have an assignment to do," I reasoned."Really? Maybe you're just really avoiding me." I could see the frustration on his face."What? Don't think like that, Ken. We've been together almost every day. Then you'll say something like that? That I'm avoiding you?""Yeah, we're together every day, but I feel like I don't have your attention. We're only on for a few weeks, but you're starting to get cold right away," he said seriously. I was suddenly nervous. He noticed my actions immediately? I don't want to get to the point where he doubts my feelings for him, or maybe he's already doubting them. Please no."Look, you're stunned again." He
[Dion's Point of View]"When are you coming back, Gadi?" my Dad asked Tita."Well, when everything's okay, Kuya. I have to take care of our other belongings there in Cavite and our remaining debts. When I come back, I'll look for a job here, and Cindy will continue her studies here, "Tita Gadi explained while looking at her daughter. Daddy and Mom nodded.I shifted my gaze to Cindy, who was hugging Tita. She was now frowning."Cole, could you please keep an eye on my daughter?" I smiled a bit and said yes to her. Even if she doesn't say anything, I always care for Cindy, so I'll really watch over her. We didn't really get along well, but I still love her because she is my cousin. She's only one cousin of mine, and I also appreciate what she does for me. I just can't help but feel bad for her when she does something bad."Gadi, do you want to be accompanied by Manong?" Mom"Uh, no need, Ate Dawn. I can do it myself. Besides, I already have enough money for transportation and for my expe