"Well researched Mr. King, no loopholes as always. Expect a fair grade for your presentation. You may take your seat and job well done. Next reporter, please. Thank you, Mr. King."
I am so proud of you, Apollo.
I spent my vacant time to peek at Apollo's class and watch him present his case study. I know he's going to excel in it and I couldn't be more proud. He worked hard for it and with all of the things that are happening in his life, he deserves at least an appreciation. Apollo is one of the people who work really hard to achieve what they want to prove. And in this case, it's his way of proving himself worthy of everything that he has.
I just wish his stepmother will see that he's not just his husband's bastard. Feeling ko kasi pinapag-aral lang niya si Apollo hindi para matulungan talaga siya kundi para ipangalandakan sa lahat ng tao na siya ang anak sa labas ng asawa niya. Apollo doesn't deserve all of this because he was the victim more than anything.
It was always a proud moment for me whenever I see him held his head high and never showed weakness instead turned them into strength to be better.
I watched him walked to his chair which is located at the back and far right corner of the room. Kahit na nakikita ko ang mapanghusgang tingin ng mga iba niyang kaklase meron din naman mangilan-ngilan na nakakalimutan ang pagka-ayaw kay Apollo sa sobrang hanga. I knew what that feels. I've felt it so many times.
I grabbed my phone and texted him.
To: Apollo
Good Job, sir! Always proud of you. I love you! x
I smiled and looked at their window again. I saw him took his phone out and read my text. I saw him smile. It gave me aches. I can almost hear my heart cry for him. It was one of the most heartfelt the way he softly stared at his phone for about 10 seconds and then I saw him type. Be still my heart.
Not a minute later, my phone vibrated.
From: Apollooo
I love you.
And just like that, my day is complete.
I grinned and walked to my classroom. I bit my lip for a second and looked around me. I tried to hide my grin but I can't! Kinikilig ako! I softly sighed and then find myself grinning again. I bit my lip again. What is he doing to me? One day mahihimatay na lang ako sa sobrang kilig.
I entered our room and sat in my chair. It's the beginning of our final semester and it's been a good start for the both of us academically. Nahahawa na ata kasi ako ng sobrang katalinuhan nya. And who am I to complain?
Our professor entered our room and we greeted her good morning. She was all smiles which mean something is about to happen. What's up with her?
Ms. Tan doesn't always smile. She's very strict and proper but all in all, she's a good adviser. Seeing her all greedy and fidgety makes me - no, us - think something is definitely going to happen. I found myself staring into a see of furrowed eyebrows.
"Good morning class. I have an important announcement. We have a special guest. The whole institution is very honored to welcome a respectable and noble man that worked hard to build his empire. One who have amassed such outstanding lawyers up to this date. Out of hundred thousands of Law Schools, we were one of the chosen ones na napaunlakan ang imbitasyon. Alam naman natin na hindi biro at hindi madali ang pag-aaral ng abogasya. Ilang lang ata sa inyo ang papasa eh." We laughed. "I know all of you are going to participate in this conference and I do hope you learn a lot. It's going to be a very informative seminar. One that we know would really help you find your mark in the industry. After this, make your way to the Auditorium to meet Mr. Herrero. Quietly please."