BOOK 02: DOROTHEA (ON-GOING)

CHAPTER 1

The moderate heat of the sun gently kissed my face, it awakened my spirit with a promise of a new day. The morning stretched out before me like a canvas of possibilities, and I couldn't help but thank God for the gift of another day. I moved through my usual routine with a sense of purpose and gratitude. Passing by my little brother's room, I saw him still peacefully asleep, his tousled hair and innocent face a reminder of the beauty in simplicity. I quietly entered my youngest brother James's room and leaned over to kiss his soft cheek, feeling a surge of love and protection for him. In that moment, as the sunlight filtered through the curtains, I knew it was going to be a day filled with blessings and moments to cherish.

After I quietly left my brother James's room, I hurried to the kitchen, eager to start preparing a delicious breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as I gathered ingredients for pancakes and scrambled eggs. As I whisked batter and chopped fruit, I glanced into the living room and saw my mother meticulously folding clothes that had hung out to dry yesterday, her movements gentle and rhythmic.

In the corner, my father focused intently on repairing a broken chair, his tools spread out around him. The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows, illuminating their quiet diligence. "Good morning," I greeted them both, smiling warmly. They returned the greeting, their faces lighting up with affection.

"Have you eaten yet?" I asked, concern flickering in my voice. They shook their heads slightly, admitting they hadn't yet had a chance. Relief washed over me as I remembered the groceries I had picked up the day before. "Good thing I bought food yesterday," I said with a laugh, "otherwise we wouldn't have anything for breakfast this morning."

They chuckled in agreement, and we shared a moment of gratitude for the foresight that now promised a satisfying meal together. As I continued cooking, the sounds of sizzling butter and the clink of utensils blended with the comforting hum of morning conversations, marking the start of a day filled with familial warmth and shared blessings.

James must have caught wind of the delicious smells wafting from the kitchen because soon enough, I felt a small tug on my apron. There he was, rubbing his eyes and yawning sleepily, but with an unmistakable grin on his face. He hugged my thigh tightly and wished me a groggy "good morning."

Chuckling softly, I gently pinched his cheek and returned his greeting warmly. "Come on, James," I said, guiding him to a chair at the table. As he settled into his seat, I continued bustling around the kitchen, finishing up our breakfast preparations.

With everything ready, I called out to my parents, who joined us at the table with smiles of anticipation. The scent of pancakes and eggs filled the air as we gathered around, sharing laughs and stories from the day before. It was a simple yet precious moment, made even more special by the company of loved ones and the comfort of a morning meal together.

Nang matapos ang agahan ay agad akong kumilos upang mag-asikaso papasok ng aking paaralan.

After preparing breakfast and ensuring everything was set, I turned my attention to myself. I applied light makeup, accentuating my features with a touch of mascara and a hint of lip color. A few spritzes of perfume enveloped me in a subtle, floral scent as I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my uniform to eliminate any wrinkles. My curly brown hair received a final comb-through, the strands falling neatly into place.

With books in hand, I left my room, feeling ready to tackle the day ahead. Before heading out, I made sure to bid farewell to my parents, exchanging warm smiles and well-wishes for the day. James was still lingering nearby, and I leaned down to plant a soft kiss on his cheek once more, my heart swelling with affection for my little brother.

Leaving home with a sense of readiness and love lingering in the air, I embarked on the day's journey, prepared for whatever challenges or joys awaited me beyond our doorstep.

“Saan ka na, Hich?” tanong ko nang sagutin niya ang aking tawag.

“Kita na lang tayo rito sa labas ng subdivision niyo.” Sagot niya sa kabilang linya.

“’Ge, wait mo ko riyan. Otw na.”

He just hummed on the other line, kaya binaba ko na ang tawag.

I walked under the warm embrace of the sun, I observed the lively scene unfolding around me. Children in their school uniforms hurried along the sidewalks, their chatter and laughter blending with the bustle of vendors setting up their stalls. Early risers gathered in clusters, exchanging news and gossip as they sipped their morning coffee.

Not far from me, a couple engaged in a heated argument, their voices carrying through the air. I could sense the curiosity of the onlookers nearby, likely discussing the drama unfolding before them. I shook my head at the scene, choosing to focus on my own path forward.

I made a quick stop at a store, purchasing a Marlboro Red and a sweet candy. Lighting the cigarette, I continued walking, the smoke trailing behind me until it dwindled to nothing just as I reached the edge of our subdivision. Hich was waiting for me there, his presence a welcome sight.

"Hey," I greeted him, a slight concern in my voice. "Do you smell the smoke on me? Does it stick?" He inspected me with a smile, reassuring me that it was barely noticeable. Without hesitation, I reached for my perfume and spritzed it delicately over myself, the fresh fragrance mingling with the morning air.

Feeling refreshed and ready, the worries of the morning fading away as we strolled together into the promising day ahead.

“Si Keige raw nasa 7/11 na, hinihintay na tayo ro’n.” Aniya.

“Nasabi mo bang kakasakay lang natin?” tanong ko sa pinsan ko.

“Oo, dala raw niya ’yong naiwan mong tumbler sa bag niya kahapon. May laman na raw iyon.” I smiled at him and nods silently.

“Manong, para ho! Dito na lang po sa may babaan. Salamat po!” Pagkapara namin ni Hich ay agad kaming bumaba sa jeep. Nasa tapat na kami ng 7/11 at agad ko nakita ang aking boyfriend.

Hich and I entered the 7/11 convenience store, I noticed Keige standing near the entrance, his eyes immediately lighting up as they met mine. His usual expression softened into a smile that reached his eyes, making them sparkle with warmth.

"Hey, you're here," he greeted me, his voice gentle yet filled with a hint of excitement.

I returned his smile as he approached, his lips parting into a grin that was infectious. He leaned forward and kissed my forehead and then my cheek, his gesture tender and comforting.

"Let me help you with those," he said softly, reaching for the books I was carrying. His touch was gentle yet firm as his soft hand and long fingers wrapped around them securely.

As we walked out of the store together, his arm naturally found its place around my waist, pulling me closer to him. The warmth of his touch and the scent of his cologne enveloped me, making me feel safe and cherished.

Outside, we waited for the next jeepney, standing side by side. The world around us seemed to fade as we exchanged quiet glances and shared smiles, knowing that every moment together was something to treasure.

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Itutuloy...
kailellesxcz | ella adriatico