Turning Tables

Lifelines

A/N: Today is a very important day in history.

You probably saw or heard  the news about SCOTUS ruling in favour of same-sex marriage.

I saw it trending on Twitter and I was curious to find out what happened.

For months, I've been following the discussions and reading the articles about the deliberations.

I prayed it would pass, not only for me but for everyone affected by inequality.

When I confirmed that it did passed, 5-4, I cried.

I cried for victory and because I was happy.

No one has to hide from anyone or to themselves.

"The more visible we are, the more we become positive role models to the LGBTQ community."

Hence the change in my picture.

I hope that through the stories I wrote, anyone who's ever in the closet, will slowly find the courage to claim their identity and eventually be free.

***

The doctor took forever to call me back.

With everyday that passed by, I was getting more and more anxious to know if my medical records were ready.

I refused the urged to call her and check on the status of my request.

Although I was eager to get a hold of the documents, I don't want to risk being labeled as impatient or demanding.

Since DJ returned from the hospital, I concentrated on taking care of her.

I missed Althea and regretted that I didn't ask for her number.

I consoled myself by thinking that perhaps, it's better that I don't know.

Having access to her would drive me crazier.

Besides, I have to focus on my plan.

I couldn't allow myself to be distracted by my feelings to the woman whose image helps me sleep soundly at night.

Calm seemed to return to the Tanchingco household.

Well, for most of them.

My father looked sullen for the past few days and I stumbled upon the reason why.

Our lifeline, the family business, was on the brink of bankruptcy.

He had to close a few of our stores.

I overheard him talking to Uncle Lucky while I was on my way to our room. The discordant sound of their voices caught my attention.

I hid behind the wall to eavesdrop.

"Althea's company plans to buy three of our stores including the one in Quiapo," Uncle Lucky told my father.

My heart skipped a beat when I heard her name.

"That is not going to happen," was the response from my dad.

"Do you mind not mentioning the name of that woman in this household?" he sounded reviled by the mention of her name.

"Oscar, right now, her company is the only one doggedly pursuing the sale." Uncle Lucky was undeterred.

"We need the money if we want to keep our family afloat." His tone was stern.

"If we don't accept her offer, we could end up without a decent sale to the company we worked hard for," his voice rose.

"I will not allow that woman to own our property!" my father yelled.