The (not so) Sweet Serendipity

16.1

Parang na-enjoy ko mag write sa ibang perspective so I will for the first time write Richard's perspective. Sobrang suspense na ang nafifeel ko with where this is going and here we go.

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The proposal rumours were true. When I received the invitation to our reunion last July, I don't know for some reason, I felt like this was the perfect time for me to propose. I mean, we have been together for almost 8 years, we've been through a lot, and now we're even both doctors. We reached our dreams together. Who knew? I think it's about time.

So I planned it but I didn't tell anyone except my parents and Riza, which I think was a mistake. Now they want details, but I don't really have the details yet. The rumors started because people saw me enter a jewelry shop. Word must've spread that I was looking for a ring, which was what I was really doing.

There was only one problem. I didn't end up buying any ring. Hence, the mistake of telling my family.

Why I ended up not buying the ring? One word. Menggay.

While I was looking around and checking out their rings, memories of Meng kept coming to my thoughts. I remember closing my eyes and shaking my head in the store with the hopes of the memories to stop coming.

I couldn't look at a ring for long cause all I was picturing was how Maine's finger would fit nicely to them. Teka lang naman Richard, si Louise po yung pakakasalan mo.

And then randomly I remember clearly a conversation I had with Meng years before that I didn't even know I still remember so well. We were having one of our late night talks about our wedding, growing up together, kids. Oh my god, I have to stop it. Get a grip, Chard.

I can't even say my name cause all I can remember is how sweet Meng's voice was calling me Chard, which is still my favourite to be honest. Wait, what.

Okay seryoso I have to stop. I have to get out of here.

I couldn't handle my thoughts in that place so I decided to leave and just come back another day.

Anong nangyayari?

When I got home, nakaabang pa pala pamilya ko sakin.

"So, let's see it." My mom.

Hindi pako nakakaupo, andun na si Dad, Riza and my mom, waiting for me to show off what I bought.

"Wala ako napili eh, baka balik na lang ako bukas or next week."

"Anak, huwag ka na masyado mag overthink, just pick one that your heart tells you is the perfect one." His dad adviced him.

"Thanks dad, I'll remember that next balik ko." I force my best smile to them.

"Or baka naman, nag bago na isip mo?"

"Mom naman! Promise po pag may napili na po ako, kayo po unang makakakita."

"Aba dapat lang no."

My parents finally got off my case. Tapos binulungan ako ni Riza, "Kuya, okay ka lang ba talaga?"

"Oo. Bakit?" I smile at Riza and try my best to convince her.

"Sigurado ka? Namumutla ka diyan eh."