Meet Me Halfway

Chapter 3: GOOSEBUMPS

After our 3rd-year college graduation, I took a vacation to our province to be with my father and my brother, Jashfer. It had been over a year since I last saw them, so I thought it's best to spend time with them and escape the problems I am facing in the city.

"Father, what do you have there? It seems quite heavy," I asked my father.

"Ah, this is some pork meat borrowed by my friend from the town. They slaughtered a pig to have funds for their child who is going abroad."

"Which country is he going to?" I inquired.

"From what I heard, he's going to America to work and serve as an Accountant. Accountants have a substantial salary there, especially since they are lacking professionals in that field," he replied to me.

I found myself intrigued by my father's words.

"What if I also pursue a job in America, so I can help my family overcome hardships and redeem the land they pawned?"

The land my father currently cultivates is mortgaged at the bank. He borrowed money there to pay for my brother’s medical expenses when he was ill with a blood disorder. During those times, we had no money, leaving my father with no choice but to surrender the only piece of land he owned to cover the hospital bills.

I feel deep compassion for the plight our father endured whenever I recall and revisit those memories. It seems that no amount of pain can compare to the trials we have experienced since I was a child. After a few moments, our father called me and invited me to join him in preparing my favorite dish, his specialty "Adobo."

When we are all together in our modest home, this is one of our family's bonding experiences. We joke about, tease each other, and laugh together constantly until one of us gets stomach aches from too much laughter. Because of them, I somehow manage to put my worries aside and maintain a constant grin. I will exert every effort to give them the lovely life they deserve since they are the source of my strength and energy, especially for my father who has put up with a lot and made sacrifices for my siblings and I 

Undoubtedly, not all heroes wear sports caps! And the struggles and sacrifices made by my father serve as my testimony.

While we were eating, our father suddenly asked me,

"My daughter, how are your studies at UP? Are you doing well there?" he inquired.

"Yes, father, I am doing well there. Especially since I have my two friends, Rein and Julyza, with me all the time, so you don't have to worry." I really said these to make my father less worried, I don't want him to think too much.

"That's encouraging, my child. As your father, I occasionally find myself worrying for you, especially because you live so far away and I am unable to keep an eye on you. Make a commitment to always take care of yourself."

"Yes, father, I promise," I replied.

"Oh, how about your heart, my child? Is there someone making it beat faster?" He said, accompanied by laughter from my sibling.

"Oh, come on, Dad, let's continue eating. Your prepared meal might get cold later."

"Ayiee, notice how my sister is blushing. My brother laughs, breaking out in a raucous laugh that nearly causes them to fall from their seats, "Maybe, Dad, someone is making her feel euphoric that she can't answer your question correctly.

"My child, you're grown now. You've faced many problems since you were young, so allow yourself to be happy. And remember, as long as someone or something brings you joy, continue pursuing it, don't stop. But if you're hurting, stop” Father said affectionately, I’ve never seen my dad this serious and soft.
“Oh, Jashfer, you're teasing your sister again” Dad rebuked Jashfer for teasing me.
“And Alianna, if someone is making your heart flutter, make sure that what you feel is honest and genuine, someone who won't leave you. My child, consider your choices carefully and never forget that your sibling and I are here to support you in any choice you make.