The Unconditional Love (JuliElmo)

Chapter 7

“Get married.”

 I don’t know how to feel. I know for the fact that right now, it’s the best thing to do. Pero bakit ganito nararamdaman ko? Parang ang laki ng kasalanan ko.

 

I look at my Dad with my shocked expression, then kay Elmo. He’s looking at my dad with his clenched fist.

 

“I can’t”

Napatingin kaming lahat kay Elmo.

 

“Well you don’t have a choice. I’ve already talked to your father, and pumayag na siya. We agreed on having a simple and private wedding.” My dad was not even looking at us while saying this. He’s upset.

“You guys planned something ng wala man lang consultation ko?!” Galit na si Elmo.

“And what are you planning? Pagkatapos mong buntisin tong anak ko e iiwan mo? This is the best way!” Okay. Mahinahon pa si Dad.

“Just abort the child! Then everything will be back to normal!” Mataas na boses ni Elmo.

Di ako makapagsalita. Parang may something na nakabara sa lalamunan ko. Gusto kong i-defend ang anak ko. Pero hindi ako makapagsalita.

“Our decision’s final. Ikakasal kayo next month.” Tumayo si Dad and lumabas ng living room. Sinundan namin ng tingin ang pagalis ni Dad and I was shocked to see Ate. She's standing there near the stairs, and she overheard everything. Tears are falling from her eyes while staring at Elmo.

Tumingin ako kay Elmo and he’s staring at Ate too.

There’s a connection between them. It’s like they’re communicating by just using their eyes. I can see that Elmo is sorry, and Ate is disappointed, exhausted and angry.

 

“Lo, maupo ka muna. Dinner’s almost ready.” My mom finally said nung may naramdaman siyang something.

 

“Sarah invited me for dinner. Napadaan lang po ako.” Pilit na ngumiti si Ate at pinunasan ang mga luha niya sa magkabilang cheeks, ang tamlay niya.

Tumayo si Elmo at lalapitan sana si Ate, pero tumakbo agad palabas si Ate. So he chase her, leaving my mom speechless, and me hopeless.

 

What have I done? Their relationship was perfect, but now everything has changed, because of me. I just took my sister’s happiness, and even my first love’s happiness.

Pero matututunan din niya kong mahalin. I’ll do my best. I swear I won’t give up this feeling that I have. I’ll show him that I’m worth it, na pwede din niya kong mahalin tulad ng pagmamahal niya kay Ate.