Be With You

FINALE

I always choose Kira.

That's for sure. That's the only constant to me right now.

And I know very well how much pressure I've put on her when I told her about continuing study abroad after graduation.

I admit that I really had these plans before, going abroad was the best option for me after college. But then again being with Kira for the past months really had a huge effect in my life. That's why I had a very deep thought about it. Pinagisipan ko lahat bago ako nagdesisyon para sa akin. Para sa amin.

"It's very unusual of you to be so attentive to all your scholarships, Quen. I thought you already had plans to attend one of the universities in Europe?"

That was the plan actually.

But Kira didn't pass so I need to do my back up one.

I gave my professor a small smile and handed my college requirements. He's right. Being attentive to the school that I had offered to attend was not my forte. Wala naman akong masyadong pakialam pagdating sa ganito because I know what I really want from the start. Luckily, I took a lot of scholarships exams before because my professor urged me to do it and I did it just for fun. Para lang malaman ko kung papasa ba ako sa lahat.

And I passed every exam.

Every school.

That's why when I found out that Kira took the test in NY University, it was a huge relief.

"I guess the one in New York was a great deal as well right?" Smirking and watching my professor scanned the requirements I gave him.

Smiling at me after reading the papers and gazing at me proudly. "I'm sure any school you choose will be a great deal. You had talents, Quen. Grow with it. Can't wait to see you be more successful."

"Thank you, Sir." I shook his hand and felt his sincere words to me.

I didn't tell Kira about it. Because I know that this will make her think that I just chose to continue my study in New York because of her.

It's true though. But part of it was me being sure of what I want to pursue. Not only my studies and future but for me choosing my happiness.

And I want her to do the same. So I let her choose and decide if she will continue to study abroad without me.

"You know I had trust in you, Son." My father heaved a deep sigh after telling them about my decision. I really tried so hard to make them understand everything. That whenever whatever path I chose I can do it.

"You had this huge trust in me since I was kid." I spoke with full confidence. "Let me use that as an advantage for my future, Dad. I will never break your trust in me. Believe me on this."

"I know." He sips on his glass of rum. "And I want to apologize for giving you a hard time for the past months. I know that one gets so much in you." He let out a chuckle and leaned his back on his swivel chair. "It's just that...I'm still a parent who wants the best for his child. I want you and your siblings to aim high. You know that."

"And we will, Dad." I took my own glass and clink with him. "I'll make you proud. That's for sure. You know I never disappoint."

My dad roared a loud laugh inside his office room. He shook his head and offered another cheer.