Where I Belong

Kabanata 4

Intimidate

As we sat together discussing school, Mrs. Miller reassured me that they would take care of my tuition expenses. Her kindness touched me deeply, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt weighing heavily on my shoulders.

"Thank you po, pero hindi ko po matatanggap yan," I replied, my voice filled with hesitation. "I don't want to burden you any further. It's already enough that you've taken me in."

Mrs. Miller's expression softened, understanding flickering in her eyes. "Brea, you're not a burden to us. You're part of our family now, and we want to support you in any way we can."

I shook my head, my resolve firm. "I appreciate your offer po, pero I can't allow you to take on any more financial responsibility because of me," I insisted.

I explained to her that I had made the decision to put my education on hold and help out with household chores instead. It was a small way for me to contribute and ease the burden on the Miller family.

But Mrs. Miller wouldn't hear of it. "Brea, education is important," she said firmly. "We want you to have the opportunity to pursue your dreams and reach your full potential. We'll find a way to make it work, together."

Her words touched me deeply, and I felt a lump form in my throat. Despite my protests, Mrs. Miller's unwavering support and belief in me gave me the courage to reconsider my decision.

"I promise I'll work hard and make the most of this opportunity."

I smiled gratefully at Mrs. Miller's offer, feeling a warmth spread through me at her kindness. "Thank you po, Tita," I replied softly, the word feeling unfamiliar yet comforting on my tongue.

Her eyes twinkled with affection as she returned my smile. "You're welcome, my dear," she said, her voice filled with warmth.

As the second semester already began, there were a rush of arrangements to be made for my transfer to the new school where the Miller boys were enrolled. Tita Alisa, took charge of the paperwork, ensuring that all the necessary documents were prepared for my enrollment.

The next morning, as the soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, I rustle from my sleep with a sense of anticipation. Today marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life – the first day of school since I had moved in with the Miller family.

I slipped out of bed and began to get ready for the day ahead. I put on clothes that would make me presentable, smoothing out the wrinkles with care.

Habang sinusuklay ko ang aking buhok at itinatali ito sa isang maayos na ponytail, hindi ko mapigilang maramdaman ang kaba sa kalooban.

With a deep breath to steady my nerves, I gathered my things and school bag, making sure I had everything I needed for the day ahead. As I headed downstairs, the aroma of breakfast dance through the air, filling me with a sense of comfort and warmth.

In the kitchen, Tita Alisa greeted me with a smile, her eyes bright with excitement. "Good morning, Brea," she said cheerfully. "Are you ready for your first day back at school?"

I returned her smile, feeling a surge of gratitude for her support. "Yes po," I replied confidently. "I'm ready."

As I sat in the kitchen, Narinig ko ang mga ingay na galing sa hagdan.

I looked up to see Kuya Aiden, descending the stairs with Austin and Archie, both first-year students like myself, trailing behind him. Instantly, I felt a pang of intimidation wash over me at Kuya Aiden's presence. His height, combined with the aura of confidence that seemed to radiate from him, made it hard not to feel small and insignificant in comparison.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs, Aiden's gaze briefly met mine, his expression unreadable. I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease under his glance, as if he were sizing me up, assessing me in a way that made me feel exposed and vulnerable.

Austin and Archie, oblivious to the tension between Kuya Aiden and me, greeted me with friendly smiles and nods as they made their way to the kitchen table. But despite their attempts to put me at ease, I couldn't shake off the feeling of nervousness that lingered in my heart.

As I watched Kuya Aiden take a seat at the table, his presence commanding and authoritative, I couldn't help but wonder what he thought of me. Would he see me as an equal, worthy of his respect and friendship? Or would he dismiss me as just another newcomer, unworthy of his time and attention?

Lost in my thoughts, I barely noticed Kuya Andre, entering the kitchen

As the boys began to engage in conversation, I found myself retreating into the background, feeling like an outsider amidst the easy closeness that flowed between them. It was clear that I had yet to earn their trust and acceptance, and for now, I could only hope that time would eventually bridge the gap between us.