My Only Secret

Special Chapter 2: THE FIRST SONS

"I, Raven Akiro Alcazaren, do solemnly swear by all that is holy to faithfully and diligently practice the profession of nursing. I shall uphold the honor and integrity of the nursing profession, and I shall strive to serve with compassion, integrity, and competence, mindful of my responsibility to the profession and the patients committed to my care."

Raven stood tall, his right hand lifted high as he took his oath. A joyful smile spread across his face, his system overwhelmed with the ecstatic feeling of finally earning his nursing degree.

The officiator continued,

"In taking this oath, you affirm your commitment to the principles and values of the nursing profession. You pledge to act with honesty, compassion, and respect for the patients and families you will serve. You acknowledge the trust that is placed in you by your peers and society, and you commit to providing the highest quality of care to all those in need, without discrimination. Do you, [Name], accept this oath and the responsibilities it entails?"

Raven and the rest of the passers all said in unison, "I do."

"By the power vested upon me, and on behalf of the profession of nursing, I hereby formally welcome you into the ranks of nurses. You are now part of a noble and rewarding profession, one that calls upon you to serve with compassion and dedication. May you embark upon your journey with honor, humility, and excellence. Congratulations and welcome, Everyone!"

Everyone in attendance erupts in a burst of applause and cheers, expressing their happiness and excitement.

Umalis si Raven sa upuan niya at hindi nagtagal ay may naririnig na siyang tumutili papunta sa kanyang direksyon.

It was his mother.

And beside her is his Hunt, his boyfriend, looking so dashing.

Ang gwapo-gwapo nito tingnan sa suot na formal suit. The black fabric hugged his broad shoulders and chest, emphasizing his muscular physique. He had left the top few buttons of his shirt loose, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of his chest.

"Anak! Oh my! Congratulations, my baby!" Niyakap siya ng ina ng mahigpit at hinalik-halikan sa pisnge. "Huhu, you're really a grown man na, hindi ka na baby! I'm so happy for you, sweetheart!"

"Thank you, Mommy." Hinangkan ni Raven ang ina sa pisnge. Nang pinakawalan siya nito ay si Hunt naman ang lumapit sa kanya.

Hunt stood there, his face illuminated by a warm smile. In his hands, he held a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a vibrant mix of roses, tulips, and sunflowers.

Inabot niya iyon kay Raven na nakangiting tinanggap nito, "Congratulations, Cub. Never doubted you."

With a slight tiptoe, Raven leaned forward, planting a soft kiss on Hunt's cheek.

"Thank you," he whispered, his lips lingering just a moment longer than necessary, "for always believing in me, and for being here."

"Oh my!" Tumili nanaman ang ina niya at tinulak silang dalawa palapit sa isa't isa. "Okay! Let me take a picture. Send ko sa daddy mo. Closer, sweeties!"

Natatawa nalang silang sumunod ni Hunt sa gusto ng ina. Hunt's hand gently rested on Raven's shoulder, while Raven's arm naturally wrapped around Hunt's waist.

His mother giggled as she took the shot. Tatalon-talon itong pinakita sa kanila ang picture. "I'll send this to your father. For sure magdadabog 'yon."

Napailing si Raven, "Stop teasing him, Ma. Kung anu-ano nanaman siguro pinagsasabi mo sa isang 'yon."

"He keeps texting my personal number." Natatawang saad ni Hunt. "Mostly threats and warnings."