Leaving it to chance [ Serendipity Series #01 ]

XXVII: balakid

Balakid— (n.) obstacle

* Should there be any Bisaya words used throughout the chapter, translations will be provided.

***

"Congratulations, Ms. Cum Laude." Mikie draped his arms around me as we leaned against the front of his car.

"Congratulations, future chemical engineer," I said playfully habang sinisiko ang gilid niya.

Today was our last week as students. Finals, thesis, and everything else was finally over. It was as if a huge weight was lifted off our shoulders. It was difficult. Boy, was it difficult. But you know what? I was proud we got it through. Together.

This was the calm after the merciless storm we both deserved. Since my schedule was freer, I decided to accompany Mikie to finish some of his requirements for graduation. That, and na-miss ko ang campus niya. Ever since nag-umpisa ang second sem, bihira na akong bumisita sa UST. I also missed the food here.

"Nakaka-excite na nakakatakot." Mikie sighed, rubbing my shoulder. "In a week or so, ga-graduate na tayo. Parang kailan lang, freshman pa ako rito. Doe-eyed and so curious about college. Napakabilis ng panahon."

"Oo nga, 'no? I remember being so scared of moving to Manila. I don't regret it naman. At first, it was so hard to leave home, to leave the thought of comfort in exchange for the unknown, but it was an adventure. One that I would gladly repeat over and over again because this journey has brought me the best things in life." I turned to face Mikie with a small smile. "And I wouldn't trade it for the world."

"Naks naman!" He giggled.

"Kinilig ka? Grabe talaga kamandag ko, 'no?" I said smugly, giving myself a small pat as if accomplishment ang mapakilig si Mikie.

His smile quickly faded, looking at me sadly. "Very soon, you're going to go on another adventure."

I knew he meant France. And it was true. This adventure may come to an end very soon, but a new one was about to unfold.

I was scared. Terrified.

"It's going to be a quick one, I promise. I will be back in your arms before you know it."

"So September?"

"It's final. September." I promised him I would be honest, to share everything. I wasn't doing this alone. He wouldn't let me.

"Okay. September."

"Kaya naman natin, 'di ba?"

"Kakayanin natin. Kaya natin. Tayo pa ba?"

Graduation came so quick that I almost could not believe it. I stood in line, waiting to be called to receive my diploma. When my name was announced, I almost froze. The usher motioned for me to start walking and I did. I held my head up high and crossed that stage to receive my diploma.

It was exhilarating.

I did it. I crossed the finish line. No one was prouder than I was of myself. I was so close to my dreams, I could almost taste it.

"I am so proud of you, my baby." Papa hugged me tightly.

"Wala najud. Dako naka akong Nina," Heto na talaga. Malaki ka na talaga ang aking Nina, Mama mumbled, placing a kiss on my cheek. I could tell she was trying so hard not to cry.

Ate Kass felt super nostalgic because just a few years ago, she crossed that same stage. Kuya Karlo couldn't make it kasi hindi siya nakahanap ng taong tatapal sa shifts niya kaya v-in-ideo na lang ni Ate Kass lahat. Tumawag naman siya after the ceremony to congratulate me.