Her Unbelievable Dream

Chapter 25:( Unexpected ties)

The sudden late-night call from Drei left me intrigued, but I decided to let go of my irritation and focus on the conversation.

"Drei, it's 2 am. What's so important that you had to wake me up?" I asked, trying to stifle a yawn.

Indeed, it was Drei – the one initially obsessed with me (from prologue). He's the person looking after Alli when I'm busy, and I decided to give him a chance. Alli enjoys bonding with him, treating Drei like a father figure, while Drei reciprocates by treating Alli as his own daughter.

"Well, I was thinking since tomorrow is Alli's birthday, why not celebrate it in a grand way? I've got a surprise planned," Drei said with excitement in his voice.

My grogginess instantly transformed into curiosity. "A surprise? What kind of surprise?" I inquired, unable to hide the anticipation in my voice.

"Ah, ah, ah! It wouldn't be a surprise if I spilled the beans now, would it? Just be ready by noon, and I'll take care of the rest. Trust me; Alli will love it," Drei replied mysteriously.

The thought of a surprise for Alli's birthday brought a smile to my face, despite the untimely call. "Alright, fine. But this better be good, Drei," I teased.

"Don't you worry, darlin'. It'll be a day to remember," he assured before ending the call.

The next day, Alli and I met Drei at the mall. As we strolled through the bustling shops, Drei's mischievous grin hinted at the excitement he had planned. We dove into the world of toys, clothes, and gadgets, picking out things that would make Alli's eyes light up with joy.

After a satisfying shopping spree, Drei led us to a hidden corner of the mall, where a beautifully decorated space awaited. Balloons, streamers, and a table filled with Alli's favorite treats greeted us. It turned out Drei had organized a surprise birthday party with all of Alli's friends.

Amidst the festive atmosphere of Alli's birthday celebration, I pulled Drei aside for a moment of gratitude.

"Drei, I can't thank you enough for this incredible surprise. Alli is overjoyed, and you've made her day truly special," I expressed, genuine appreciation in my voice.

Drei chuckled, waving off the thanks. "Ah, it was nothing, darlin'. Anything for my favorite little buddy. And besides, you deserve a break from the daily grind."

Alli, holding a bunch of balloons, joined in, adding her own heartfelt words. "Thank you, Uncle Drei! This is the best birthday ever!"

Drei ruffled Alli's hair, a warm smile on his face. "Well, kiddo, you deserve nothing but the best. Now go enjoy the party with your friends."

As the festivities continued, our expressions of gratitude lingered in the air, creating a sense of warmth and camaraderie that went beyond the birthday celebration itself.

As Alli's laughter echoed through the mall, I couldn't help but appreciate Drei's efforts. Despite his initial obsession, he had become a significant part of our lives, and his genuine care for Alli was evident.

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Kasalukuyan kaming nasa veranda ngayon at nag uusap.

"Napakaspecial ng araw na ito para sa akin, at may isang bagay akong nais iparating," aniya, hinihintay ang aking atensyon. Kaya naman napalingin ako rito

Ang masusing mata niya'y nagbigay ng clue sa lahat ng nararamdaman niya. Sa ilalim ng malamlam na ilaw ng kalangitan, dahan-dahan siyang lumuhod, at inilabas ang maliit na kahon.

"Dahil sa pagmamahal ko sa inyo, naisip kong maging mas permanenteng bahagi ng buhay n'yo," sambit niya habang binubuksan ang kahon, na naglalaman ng singsing.

Ngunit sa halip na isang masiglang pagsang-ayon, isang malalim na buntong-hininga ang narinig mula sa akin. "Drei, maraming salamat sa lahat ng ginawa mo para sa amin, ngunit hindi ko kayang tanggapin ito. Mahalaga ka sa amin bilang kaibigan, pero hindi ko kayang itahakbang ito sa ibang antas," mariing tugon ko, may panghihinayang sa puso.

Napagtanto ko na sa kabila ng kanyang kabaitan at pag-aalaga, ang ganitong hakbang ay hindi maaring itahakbang nang pilit. Ang aming pagkakaibigan at pagpapahalaga sa isa't isa ay nanaig sa gitna ng pag-ibig na hindi nabubukas para sa isang romansa.

Napawi ang biglang paglamlam sa mga mata ni Drei, at sa kabila ng pagkadismaya, ngumiti siya at bumanat ng pangungumusta. "Okay lang 'yan, darlin'. Hindi ko naman inaasahan, pero at least sinubukan ko. Ang importante, masaya tayo ngayon."

At kahit na may panghihinayang, ang pagkakataong ito ay nagbigay daan sa mas malalim na pag-unawa at pagpapahalaga sa aming ugnayan bilang magkaibigan.

Sa apat na taon na lumipas ang laki ng pinag bago nito, wala akong masabi sa kung paano ako itrato nito. Hindi siya umalis sa tabi ko at piniling manatili sa likod ng pang gagamit ko sa kaniya noon. Ilang beses na niyang sinubukan na tanungin ako ngunit hindi kayang pilitin ang puso na mag mahal. Lalo na't hindi pa ito handa.

To be continue...