BINI SHOTS!

Birthday (Macolet)

*3 years old Maloi*

"Mama, Papa! Can I get that toy unicorn for my birthday?"

"Anak, we do not have money yet. Next time na when papa gets the money, okay?"

*5 years old Maloi*

"Daddy, it's my birthday today! Can I get a toy Barbie like Stacey has?"

"Daddy is super busy, anak. All the money from his work will be used for your school sa inyong magkakapatid. We will get you something else when we come back home."

"Okay, mommy. I understand."

*8 years old Maloi*

"Mom! Can I please get a badminton racquet for my birthday? Kahit yun lang po kasi nahihiya na ako kay Jhoanna to use hers and I really need it for the incoming Intramurals."

"Maloi, we sti—

"It's okay, hon. How much is the racquet you want, anak?"

"My coach offered me the cheapest one which is ₱1000.00 pesos. I know it is kinda expensive but it will last long naman."

"How about this, dad will buy someone from a friend which is affordable. Pasensya na, anak. Your mom really needs the money for her sickness. I hope you will understand."

"Okay lang po. You do not need to buy one, dad. I am sure Jhoanna will understand the situation that I will borrow hers muna for the mean time."

*12 years old Maloi*

"Hello, anak! It's your birthday pala, let's eat at Jollibee with the whole family for dinner. Dad got his paycheck today."

"Dad, kahit ano ang kakainin natin ngayon. I just want this year's wish to come true."

"Is this about going to Taiwan for your badminton game? I told you that we cannot afford it. We are not that ri—

"I am the best female player in the team! The school donated money for me to go there but all I need is your validation."

"Someone has to be with you because you are a minor. I can't come with you because of your mother's condition. No one will also look after your younger siblings. There are many opportunities that will come in the future for you, Maloi. Please be considerate muna."

"Oo, lagi naman."

*16 years old Maloi*

"Ayiieee, may secret admirer si Ate Maloi!"

"Anong sinasabi mo diyan, Sheena Mae?"

"Look at your locker!"

The girl curiously checked out to see what was inside her locker and she was surprised to see...

"A toy unicorn and barbie doll? Why on earth would someone give these gifts to me anonymously?"

"Duh, it's your birthday kaya. For the record, ang cute lang ng gift sa secret admirer mo. I can have it if ayaw mo."

"Luh ang epal ni Stacey, ang yaman mo kaya that you can even buy a lot of these."

"Aysus, kinilig ka lang eh kaya ayaw mo ibigay kahit kanino sa amin."

"Nandito sa card para sa akin, syempre akin talaga ito, Jhoanna."

"Oh, chill ka lang. Let's go to the mall because we are treating you for a birthday dinner!"

*20 years old Maloi*

"Happy birthday, Maloi Ricalde!"

"OMG guys, thank you but why are we specifically here? May bayad dito."