A Journey Through Love and Loss

Incident

Avery's POV

After a hearty lunch, we gathered in the farmhouse's hunting room to gear up. Tyrone stayed behind with Mrs. Sandoval and my mom, who were preparing dinner. Bawal kasi si Tyrone sa hunting field dahil bata pa ito. Malungkot na malungkot nga ang mukha nito kanina bago kami umalis.

The four instructors patiently taught us how to handle our rifles, one by one, demonstrating proper technique and ensuring we were comfortable with the firearms.

I felt a mix of nerves and excitement as Ruth and I prepared. Thalia, on the other hand, looked completely at ease, handling her rifle with practiced confidence.

As we loaded our guns under the careful watch of the instructors, my hands trembled slightly.

"Everyone ready?" Mr. Sandoval asked, his voice steady despite the adrenaline.

"Yes Uncle, let's do this," Caleb said, adjusting his hunting cap.

Mark grinned. "I'm ready to prove I can hit something today."

Lucas chuckled. "You better, or we'll never let you hear the end of it."

As we walked out to the hunting field, I marveled at the dense forest surrounding us. The sounds of birds and rustling leaves filled the air, adding to the natural beauty of the estate.

The instructors assured us that the area was secure, with wild animals kept away by fencing in adjacent fields.

Mr. Sandoval took the lead, spotting a bird and expertly shooting it down. The bird fell gracefully among the dry leaves.

Napaglakpakan naman sila kaya nakigaya na rin kami ni Ruth. "We've been doing this since Tyler and Thalia were still in high school." Mr. Sandoval said, His skill was evident.

Tyler took his turn next, his aim swift and accurate as he brought down another bird in flight. His friends cheered and clapped him on the back, impressed by his marksmanship.

Napangiti naman ako at nakita iyon ni Ruth kaya siniko niya ako. Inirapan ko lang siya dahil iba ang tingin niya sa akin.

"Nice shot, Tyler!" Lucas exclaimed, giving him a friendly punch.

"Thanks, but let's see if you can match it," Tyler teased back.

Mark stepped up next, but his shot missed, eliciting playful teasing from the group. "Looks like you need more practice, Mark!" Pang-aasar ni Caleb.

"I swear, the bird moved!" Mark defended himself, grinning.

As we moved deeper into the largest field, medyo naghiwa-hiwalay na kami ng pwesto. Magkakatapat lang kami bawat gilid para maiwasan ang aksidente kapag may nagpaputok ng rifle. Ang apat na instructors naman ay nasa likuran lang namin.

Ruth and I stayed near each other, whispering nervously. Napatingin kaming dalawa kay Thalia, already scanning for her next target with a calm focus.

"Are you ready for this?" I asked Ruth, adjusting my grip on the rifle.

Ruth nodded, her expression determined. "I think so. Just hope I don't embarrass myself."

"You'll be fine," I reassured her, feeling my own anxiety ease a bit.

Suddenly, Thalia's sharp eyes caught two birds in flight, and with precise movements, she took them both down swiftly.

"Wow, good job!" Mr. Sandoval chuckled.

"It seems all your children inherited that from you." Daddy said with delight.

Tyler shoot a playful glance on Thalia.  "Show-off," He teased her, earning a playful eye-roll in return.