USA | 9am
R A M O N
I took a deep breath and gathered all my courage left before I opened the door.
Ana's mom smiled upon seeing me. I composed myself before I made my way in.
"come here iho" she said. And so I did. Umupo ako sa tabi niya.
"Nakausap ko na yung doctor ni Ana. She's almost back to normal. Thank you for everything you've done for my daughter" she said while holding my hand.
Parang may kung anong saya akong naramdaman sa narinig ko.
"so you mean..."
She nodded.
"pumapayag na kaming bumalik ka ng Pilipinas. You've suffered so much. Alam kong madami kang nasakripsyo sa pagsama mo dito kay Ana and God knows how thankful we are for your company."
"It's my fault tita so you don't have to worry"
She shook her head.
"You're a good man Ramon. Alam kong hindi mo sinadya lahat ng nangyari. You didn't have to bear all the responsibilities but still, you did. I'm thankful iho. Kung ako lang tatanungin, gusto kita para sa anak ko."
I smiled.
"may nobya ka na nga ba Ramon??"
Nagulat ako sa bigla niyang natanong.
Napapangiti nalang ako habang naiisip na sa wakas, may mukha na akong maihaharap kay Gracie.
I proudly showed her my ring finger.
"ohh.. you're married???" gulat niyang sabi. I shook my head
"ikakasal palang po kami!" I said.
"wow! That girl is so lucky. Congratulations in advance! I'm sure you'll be a good husband. Nakita ko kung gaano mo pinahalagahan si Ana kahit na hindi naman kayo magka-ano ano. She sure is lucky to have you" tuwang tuwa niyang sabi.
"...How considerate of her. buti pumayag siyang sumama ka dito?" dagdag pa niya na nakapagpasama ng loob ko.
