Years After (Completed)

9 - It's time

Victor suddenly froze from where he stands as he is not expecting such question from Althea.  He could no longer recall when was the last time he has a mental block.  He does not know how to reply to Althea Marie, especially in front of his eldest son, Vino.

“Dad, who is Aliah?” Althea again asked.

“Don’t you remember her? Anak sya ni Mama Allie’s mo.” Victor replied.

“I don’t remember her Daddy, but her name rings a bell.  Di ba yan yung name ng store ni Mama Allie before nya pinalitan yung name” Althea replied.  “I don’t remember her Dad, was I able to meet her?”Althea replied.

“Really, Daddy? May anak pa si Mama Allie, Dad?” Vino excited asked.  “Where is she now?” he continued asking.

“The card was dated 11 years ago, does it mean we are almost of the same age?  But how come, I could not remember her?” Althea asked.

“Ang dami nyong tanong nyo pero yung tanong ko na, kung ano ang ginagawa nyo dito, hindi nyo pa sinasagot.” Victor replied to sway the topic.

“I asked Mommy about your love letters for her.” Vino replied.

“And why do you need to see those?” Victor asked.

“When I saw the list of the topic for the essay writing contest, ikaw ang napili kong subject sa napili kong topic.” Vino replied.

“Wait, are you saying na sasali ka na sa school contest nyo?” Victor said.

“Yes Daddy, di ba sabi nyo nga, win or loose, wala namang mawawala.  Instead, I can gain experience from it.” Vino replied.

“Good decision son, you made me very proud.” Victor said while tapping Vino’s shoulder.  “Anong topic ang napili mo?” he asked.

“Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met? Describe what makes him or her so interesting and what you think of his or her life.” Vino replied.

“Really son, you find me interesting?” Victor gladly asked.

“Of course, Daddy.  Nobody is as interesting as you and Mommy.  I asked nga my adviser kung pwedeng kayong dalawa ni Mommy, but she suggested na pumili kang ako ng isa.  Therefore, I choose you since you are the head of this family.” Vino explained.

“Thank you so much son, I am thrilled. But, remember, no pressure, just enjoy it.” Victor said.

“Yes, Daddy.  I will keep that in mind.” Vino replied.

“Go now and do your homework.  Let’s have an early dinner tonight so we could hit the bed early.” Victor said

“Ok Daddy.” Althea said and started to put back all letters and cards scattered on the bed when Victor stops her.

“It’s alright baby, I’ll take care of that.  Parang gusto kong mag-review ng mga love letters ko sa Mommy nyo while I wait for dinner.” Victor said.

“Ohhh, ang sweet naman Daddy.” Althea commented.

“You think so baby?” Victor asked.

“Yes Daddy.” Althea replied with a gleaming eyes.

“Therefore, find someone like me.” Victor said.  “And since I am a rare species, might as well wag ka nang maghanap since wala ka namang makikitang katulad ko.” He brags.

“I hope hindi ka serious sa sinasabi mo Daddy.” Althea said.

“I am serious and objection overruled.  Go now and do your homework.” Victor said and gently pushes the two out of the room.  “By the way, tell you Mommy to come here quick.  I had a long day in the office and I desperately need a nice massage.” Victor added before he closes the door.