Digging Deep: A Libero's Love Match

(27) Out of Memory

ELLA POV

It's been three years since I last saw Jema at the hospital, and there's been no news from her since. Even her friends have been unable to contact her.

Many speculate that her lack of recovery may be due to difficulties in treatment, and they said she's gone

I hope that's not true, but it's also possible that she's been gone for a long time that hasn't heard from her. It's a troubling thought, one that weighs heavily on my mind as I continue to search for answers. Despite the uncertainty and the passage of time, I refuse to give up hope.

I cling to the belief that somewhere, somehow, Jema is safe and well. Even in the face of daunting odds

....

After three years, my libero has shown remarkable improvement here in the Pro league. Despite facing a challenging decision following recent events, I find myself contemplating retirement. However, as the holder of the Best Libero title four times over, and considering my continued contributions to the team, I am compelled to stay on.

"To Our Best Libero,Would you like to acknowledge the individuals who have supported you in reaching this achievement?"

Nandito ako nakatayo sa harap ng libo libong tao sa arena

" Hello po, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me and my team in achieving this position.

First and foremost, I want to thank my family. Your endless love and support have been the foundation of my strength.

To my coaches, thank you for pushing me beyond my limits and helping me realize my potential. Your expertise, dedication, and constructive criticism have shaped me into the player I am today

To my teammates. You have been my second family, and the camaraderie we share on and off the court is something I cherish deeply. Your support, both during victories and defeats, has been a source of motivation for me. Together, we have created memories that will last a lifetime.

I also want to extend a special thanks to the girl who was one of my inspirations, even though she is no longer here. Wherever you are now, I look forward to seeing you again. I hope you're okay, and I hope you'll be proud of me. Your memory and the impact you had on my life continue to motivate me every day. Ayun lang po thank you"

After I spoke, I left, feeling a mixture of emotions swirling within me. As I walked away, lost in my thoughts, Ly approached me with a gentle smile, her arms open for a hug.

" I'm so proud of you Besh! diba sabi ko sayo may reason kung bakit ka dinala dito" si Ly

" Thank you besh hindi ko din magagawa to kung hindi dahil sainyo"

JEMA POV

" Nak, ready kana?"

" Opo"

My life in America is stress-free, far from problems. Here, I've found a sense of peace and stability that allows me to focus on my career and personal growth. The serene environment and supportive community have been instrumental in helping me thrive, both on and off the court.

They also changed my name; people here call me Jesse. This new identity feels like a fresh start, a chance to redefine myself and embrace the opportunities that life in America has to offer. Each day, I wake up feeling grateful for the calm and the new experiences that come my way, knowing that I am building a future filled with promise and potential.

The vibrant culture and opportunities in America have enriched my life in countless ways. I've had the chance to meet incredible people, experience new adventures, and pursue my passions without the weight of past burdens. Each day, I wake up feeling grateful for the fresh start and the endless possibilities that lie ahead

I really don't want to leave here, but we have to go back to the Philippines, my parents said. The thought of returning brings a mix of emotions. On one hand, I am reluctant to leave behind the comfort and stability I've found in America. On the other hand, I understand the importance of family and the need to confront the unresolved parts of my past

I think this is where I will start my new life. Returning to the Philippines feels like a full circle moment, an opportunity to reconnect with my roots and create new beginnings.

We are now here in the Philippines, while we were walking here in the mall I saw a dog

Ahhh so cute

" oh hii doggie, kaninong owner ka?"

" Ate Jesse hindi sasagot yan, bahala ka dyan mauna nako ah" - Mafe

" yeah i know pero mukhang nakawala sya from her owner"

Suddenly a girl came running, she must be the owner

" Naku Tintin jusko nandyan kalang pala, mapapatay nako ng amo ko kung hindi kapa nagpakita"

" kayo po yung may dala sa kanya?"

" ah oo hija mauna na kami, kanina pa kasi namin sya hina..."

" Tin! love, you're here kanina pa kita hinahanap"

ELLA POV

" ano ba kasing ginawa mo yaya?"

" sorry maam, eh nahulog po kasi yung paper bag na hawak ko kaya kinuha ko po, nagulat din po ako nung bigla syang nakawala sa pagkakatali nya at tumakbo"

" find her, hindi ako mapipilitan na tanggalin ka kapag hindi mo nahanap si Tintin"

" dyan ka, dito ako"

Tintin is my dog, Milo and Basha's daughter. Yes, they had a puppy when Jema brought Milo to stay with us for a month. Tintin looks just like Milo too, after all. I let Yaya hold Tintin because I just needed to buy something at the clothing store.

Later, Yaya came to me and said that Tintin was off the leash. I couldn't control my mixed emotions, a blend of panic and worry washing over me.

I quickly rushed out of the store, my heart pounding as I began searching for her. Tintin means so much to me, a living connection to the memories of Jema and the special time when Milo stayed with us. Finding her was my top priority, and I hoped with all my heart that she was safe.

Then, I finally saw Yaya together with Tintin. Relief flooded through me as I hurried over to them.

" Tin! love, you're here kanina pa kita hinahanap"

I didn't immediately notice the people around me, so I was very surprised when I turned around and saw her. The woman I've been waiting for three years, the woman who was one of my dreams, stood right in front of me. My heart raced as I took in the sight of her, emotions flooding back after all this time.

" Jema" I hugged her

Gathering my courage, I approached her and spoke, my voice trembling with anticipation and hope. But when she turned to face me, her reaction took me completely off guard. There was no recognition in her eyes, no sign that she knew who I was. It was as if the years we had spent together, the memories we had shared, had vanished from her mind.

" Wait sorry, hindi kita kilala"

I was stunned, struggling to comprehend how this could be possible. The woman who had been such an integral part of my life, whose absence had left an ache in my heart, now looked at me as if I were a stranger. It was a moment of profound confusion and heartache, one that left me questioning everything I thought I knew.