“To the happy couple, may you bask forever in happiness and love. Cheers!” I raised my glass and the other guests followed my lead. “And Vic, welcome to the family. Take care of my cousin. I know you’ll be good to her. Love you both.”
I just made a spontaneous speech. I haven’t really prepared anything. I’ve been really busy the past week. And my senses left me hours ago, when he suddenly decided to knock on my door an hour before my cousin’s engagement party.
Seriously Xian, do you expect me to wait around for you?
NO WAY!
“Great message.” Mark stood up and pulled my seat for me as I approached our table. “It was very heartfelt.”
“Thanks.” I smiled and sat down. “Di nga ako nakapaghanda. Kakahiya.”
“Yun pa ba ang hindi napaghandaan?! Stop the modesty princess.”
I shook my head and was about to say something when the Emcee interrupted.
“Thank you. Miss Kim Chiu for that wonderful message. And now from the groom’s side, the best man, Mr. Xian Lim.”
He’s here. He’s late. I haven’t seen him since he left my house. Akala ko mauuna siya samin ni Mark pero pag dating namin wala pa siya. I was searching the place for him but no sign. Dinner had past and the program started but still no Xian. Where was he? Bakit ngayon lang siya?
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen.” He paused then suddenly his eyes began searching the room. His eyes met mine. He held my gaze and then sighed. He shook his head before he spoke again. “I don’t know where to begin. I’m not used to this kind of speeches. Haha. But let me give it a shot, feel free to cut me off, anytime. Don’t want to be boring anyone.” Then he began laughing again. Everyone was laughing with him.
“Vic has been my best friend ever since I can remember. Our parents are close friends kaya we treat each other as brothers. I’ve seen his ups and downs. Every turning point in his life. From being this happy-go-lucky to the straightening-out-my-life guy. From being a notorious playboy to being a hopeless one-woman-man romantic. I’ve been with him through all. Haha. Because of our closeness people think we’re gay. Actually, there was this one incident in college when one girl rejected him because of that thought. Di ba Vic, ano ngang sabi niya, “no straight guy would be overly protective of his bestfriend”. You see, Vic and I we have that what people would call “bromance”. Batman and Robin kami niyan eh. Partners in crime.” He was once again silent. I can see he’s holding back his emotions.
“Then, came along Bechay. Batman found her Catwoman. Vic changed big time. He grew up. He was no longer setting goals for himself. He always included Bechay in his decisions and choices. Bechay kept him grounded. She became his destination and journey at the same time. Knowing Vic, he never wanted to leave the States, for him that was home. But look at where he is right now, right beside his home. Bro, I’m very happy for you. You made the right decision. And you fought for it. Remember, real life doesn’t end with happy ever after. Everyday’s a battle, so Batman keep fighting for your love and happiness with your Catwoman. Congratulations and I wish you all the best!” He sobbed a little before letting out a faint smile.
