C3 CHAPTER 3: MEET HIM

Nang magising ako, marahang kinuha ko ang aking cellphone at tiningnan ang oras. Tila ba ang araw ay nagmamadali na kumatok sa aking kamalayan. Bumangon ako mula sa kama, at dahan-dahan akong nag-inat habang pinipilit buksan ang aking mga mata.

Medyo masakit pa ang ulo ko dahil sa pagkaka-gising, pero pinilit ko pa rin tumayo at tumungo sa banyo para umihi. Hinawakan ko ang pader para gabayan ang aking mga hakbang, habang lumilipat mula sa aking kuwarto patungo sa banyo.

Pagkatapos kong umihi, inayos ko na rin ang aking kama at inayos ang mga unan. Sinilip ko ang aking sarili sa salamin. Mabuti na lang at wala akong pasok ngayon, kaya medyo mas pahinga ako.

Nang maayos ko na ang aking kuwarto, lumakad na ako pababa ng hagdanan. Nararamdaman ko ang simoy ng umagang hangin na humahalimuyak sa paligid. Pagdating ko sa baba, amoy ko na ang masarap na amoy ng pagkain mula sa kusina.

In the dining area, I found Papa sitting there, reading the newspaper. Knowing he had a night shift, it made sense that he was still awake. I greeted him with a sleepy smile and asked where Kuya was. He informed me that Kuya had already left because he had some group work to attend to, which is why he left early.

I nodded, understanding that Kuya must have had important responsibilities to attend to at school. I took a seat at the table.

Si Mama ay abala sa pagluluto, at ang amoy ng tapang kabayo at sinangag ay nagsilbing musika sa aking mga pandinig. "Magandang umaga, anak," bati ni Mama habang ngumingiti.

"Magandang umaga po, Ma!" tugon ko, trying to shake off the last traces of sleep.

Mama served me a plate of warm pandesal, coffee, and salted eggs. I savor the delightful taste of the morning treat she prepared. It felt comforting, like a warm hug that chased away any lingering drowsiness.

As I ate, I could hear the rustling of the newspaper as Papa continued to read. The warmth of the morning sun seeped through the windows, creating a cozy and comforting ambiance. Despite the early hour, there was a sense of tranquility in the air. Sumabay na rin si mama kumain, kumain na kasi si Papa dahil maya maya ay aalis din siya dahil may pupuntahan daw siyang client kahit na ang work niya ay night shift.

Nang mga ilang sandali nilupi ni Papa ‘yong newspaper niya at tumingin sa akin

Nang tanungin ako ni Papa kung nag-away ba kami ni Kuya kagabi dahil narinig daw nila yung pag-aaway namin tungkol sa pagpasok ko sa kwarto niya, napaamin naman ako. "Oo, Papa, medyo nagkaroon lang ng konting alitan," sabi ko nang may pag-aalinlangan sa tinig.

Both Mama and Papa looked concerned, and Mama said, "Anak, ano bang nangyari? Bakit kayo nagkaroon ng alitan ng Kuya mo?"

Nagsimula akong magkuwento at inamin kung paano kami nagkaroon ng hindi pagkakaintindihan dahil sa pagpasok ko sa kuwarto ni Kuya. I explained that it was not my intention to invade his privacy, and I understood his need for personal space. Papa and Mama listened attentively, their faces showing concern. I shared my side of the story, and I also mentioned how I got defensive when Kuya confronted me about it.

"I see," Papa said thoughtfully. "But, Luna, it’s important to respect each other's boundaries and space, and it's also important to communicate openly about these things so you can avoid misunderstandings."

I nodded in agreement, feeling grateful for Papa's understanding and guidance. He reassured me that conflicts were a natural part of family life, but what mattered most was how we learned from them and strengthened our relationships through communication and empathy.

"And, anak, alam mo bang importante ang respeto sa privacy ng bawat isa sa pamilya?" Papa gently asked.

Napangiti ako ng bahagya at nagsabing, "Oo, Pa, alam ko po. Nagsisisi na po ako. I swear at hindi na po ako mauulit." Itinaas ko ang kabila kong kamay para patunay na nangangako ako.

Mama joined the conversation, saying, "Mahalaga rin na mag-open communication tayo sa isa't isa. Kung mayroon kang tanong o gusto malaman, mas maganda na sabihin mo agad para maiwasan ang mga ganyang situwasyon."

“Yes, po," I shyly said, and she smiled at me.

"I'll talk to your Kuya about this," Papa said. "It's also essential for him to understand your perspective. Remember, magkapatid kayo, and you should support and care for each other."

I thanked Papa and Mama for their advice and reassurance, feeling relieved that they didn't scold me but instead offered a way to resolve the issue. They reminded me that family was there to help each other grow and learn, and that meant working through disagreements together.

After our conversation, I felt more determined to talk to Kuya and resolve our misunderstanding properly. I realized that open communication was the key to maintaining a strong bond between our siblings.

After finishing my breakfast, I cleared my plate and prepared myself for the day ahead. I knew that Papa would be heading to bed soon, preparing for his next night shift and his meeting with the client. As I bid him farewell and gave him a hug, I thanked him for always being there for us, even with his demanding work schedule.

As I went up to my room, I immediately headed to my table desk to continue with my schoolwork. With determination, I focused on my assignments and reviewed the lessons from class.

After a few hours, I received a notification from our group chat with Kaira and Maegan. They were inviting me to unwind and have some fun to shake off the stress from yesterday's events at school. A smile formed on my face as I read their message.

"Count me in!" I replied eagerly, excited about the prospect of spending time with my friends and forgetting about the stress for a while. The idea of letting loose and having a good time was exactly what I needed.

Agad naman nag pop up ang groupchat namin.

Maegan: Yes naman, around 2 pm ang kitaan natin ha.

I replied, “Got it.”

Ilang sandali naman ay nag reply na si Alhena

Alhena: Hmm, saan kaya ang kitaan?

Maegan: Maybe, sa park nalang malapit sa school para refreshing HAHAHAH

Nagbabasa nalang ako sa mga chat nila at hindi na nagre-reply

Alhena: Good idea HAHAHA, try natin puntahan mamaya ‘yong treehouse café na recently lang nagbukas, usap usapan na masarap daw do’n ang café and food :)

Maegan: Hala, Alhena! Hindi mo pa rin matanggal 'yong pagiging foodie mo! Always looking for new cafes, pabirong sabi ni Maegan sa gc

Napapangiti nalang ako sa chat nila.

Alhena: Syempre Meg, kasi masarap naman talaga ang mga pagkain doon, especially coffee! Hindi mo rin mapipigilan na ma-excite, Maegan!

Me & Maegan HAHA reacted

Maegan: "Osige, tama kana. Basta't wag mo lang akong kakainin sa pag-aaway natin ha!"

Alhena: Naku Meg, hindi naman kita kakainin, promise rawr!

Me HAHA reacted

Habang nagbabasa lang ako sa kanilang pag-aasaran, nakikita ko kung gaano kasaya ang kanilang pagkakaibigan. May respeto at pagmamahal na bumabalot sa bawat biro nila. Alam ko na kahit nagkakaroon ng kaunting asaran, ito'y bahagi lang ng pagiging magkaibigan namin at nagpapasaya sa sa aming samahan.

Me: Okay, okay, tama na ang asaran. Pupunta ba tayo sa café mamaya?

Alhena: Yes, aming sineerist na kaibigan

Ngumiti nalang ako sa reply ni Alhena. While waiting for our meet-up time, we continued to share stories and jokes, and laughter filled the group chat.

ARCHE'S POV

Nagising ako ng maaga dahil may group project kaming kailangan tapusin. Medyo tinatamad pa ako dahil sa dami ng kailangan namin tapusin sa school. Habang nag-aayos ako ng mga gamit, agad na kinuha ko ang aking cellphone at nakita ko ang text message ni Orion, ang kaibigan kong kasama sa group project.

Binuksan ko na ang text message niya sa’kin, "Good morning, Arche! Nasaan ka na pre? andito na ako sa meeting place natin," sabi niya.

Sinagot ko naman agad ‘yong text niya sa’kin, "Good morning din, pre! Nag-aayos pa lang ako ng gamit, pero papunta na rin ako diyan," sagot ko sa kanya.

Agad na akong bumaba at nakita ko sina Mama at Papa sa dining area. "Magandang umaga, Ma, Pa!" bati ko sa kanila ng may ngiti sa labi.

"Magandang umaga, Nak! Saan ka punta? May group project ba kayo ngayon?"

"Oo, Ma. Medyo marami kaming kailangang tapusin, alam niyo na graduating ang panganay niyo." sagot ko,

Mama and Papa smiled at me.

Papa invited me to eat before leaving: "Osiya, edi kumain ka muna diyan."

But because I was in a hurry, I declined his offer and simply said, "Pasensya na po, Pa, pero kailangan ko nang umalis agad hinihintay ako ni Orion sa meeting place namin. Siguro do’n nalang ako kakain, baka hinihintay na nila kasi ako."

"Naku, Arche, kahit sandali lang, mas mabuti pa rin na kumain ka. Importante ang lakas ng katawan mo para sa group project ninyo," sabi ni Mama na nag-aalala.

Ngumiti ako at hinawakan ang kamay ni Mama. "Salamat po sa pag-aalala, Mama. Huwag po kayong mag-alala, kahit pagod ako, makakain ako sa tamang oras. Kailangan ko lang talagang umalis na ngayon."

She looked a bit concerned, but she understood my urgency. "Alright, just be sure to eat something later. Don't forget to take care of yourself," she reminded me.

"Sige, Nak, ingat ka," dagdag ni Mama, na puno ng suporta at pagmamahal.

"Ingat ka sa pagmamaneho, Arc ha." dagdag ni Papa.

“Opo, Pa.” sabi ko, pinatunog ko na ‘yong kotse at nag drive na.

I assured them that I would, quickly gathered my things, and said my goodbyes to Mama and Papa. I made sure to bring some snacks with me to munch on while we worked on our project.

As I arrived at the meeting place, Orion was already there, waiting for the rest of our group members to arrive. We wasted no time and immediately started planning and assigning tasks. We were all eager to get the project started and make the most of the time we had left.

After our project meeting concluded, I immediately invited Orion to grab a meal together since I hadn't eaten yet. I felt the pang of hunger and knew it was important to nourish ourselves after the productive but demanding session.

"Hey, Orion, let's grab something to eat. I'm starving!" I said with a tired smile.

Orion chuckled, realizing that we had been so focused on the project that we forgot to take care of our own needs. "You're right! I didn't even notice how hungry I was until you mentioned it," he replied.

"Sa treehouse café, let’s try; malapit lang din dito ‘yon and sabi rin ng sister ko masarap daw do’n," dagdag niya

"Oh, that’s good; try natin let’s go."

We decided to head to a nearby café, where we could enjoy a satisfying meal and some much-needed downtime. As we sat down and ordered our food, we took a moment to relax and let the stress from the project meeting melt away.

Over our meal, we chatted about non-school-related topics, caught up on each other's lives, and shared some laughter. It was refreshing to take a break and just enjoy each other's company without the pressure of deadlines and responsibilities.

After the meal, we felt recharged and ready to face the rest of the day. "Thanks for reminding me to eat, Arche," Orion said, grateful for my concern.

"No problem. It's essential to take care of ourselves, especially during busy times like this," I replied.

We both agreed that we should always look out for each other, not just as project partners but as friends who genuinely cared for one another's well-being. With our stomachs filled and our spirits uplifted, we were now more motivated and energized to tackle any challenges that lay ahead.

Fast forward…

LUNA'S POV

My outfits for today's gala are a high-waisted A-line skirt, tucked in a simple fitted top, and a pair of Mary Jane chunky heels. As we walked together, my friends Alhena, Maegan, and I were nearing the Treehouse Cafe, which was Alhena's brilliant suggestion for our hangout. I couldn't help but feel excited and grateful to be with my friends. The treehouse-themed cafe was a perfect place for us to unwind after a tiring day.

Alhena had always been great at finding unique and interesting places to hang out. She had a talent for discovering hidden gems around the city, and this cafe was no exception. The thought of having a cozy and whimsical experience at the Treehouse Cafe made me even more eager to get there.

Once inside, we were welcomed by the warm and friendly staff. The interior was beautifully decorated with hanging plants, wooden furniture, and cozy cushions. The sound of soft music played in the background, adding to the cafe's charm.

"Alhena, this place looks awesome! Thanks for suggesting it," I said, smiling at her.

She grinned back, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I knew you'd love it, Luna! It's the perfect spot for us to hang out and enjoy some quality time together, and I heard the ambiance here is fantastic, and the food is delicious," Alhena replied.

Maegan, who was walking beside me, added, "Yeah, I've heard great reviews about their desserts too. I can't wait to try them!"

“Told you, Meg,” Alhena said

We found a cozy spot near the window, which gave us a lovely view of the surrounding trees. It almost felt like we were having a little picnic in the middle of nature. We ordered our favorite drinks and some delicious treats to share.

Once inside, the cozy ambiance welcomed us with a comforting embrace. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and delicious food wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As we sipped our drinks and laughed together, I felt a sense of contentment and comfort. Being with Alhena and Maegan always brought joy to my heart.

A friendly waitress greeted us na may hawak na menu list, and we each ordered our drinks and desserts. I decided to try their signature iced matcha latte, while Alhena chose a fruity iced tea, and Maegan went for a slice of their famous chocolate cake.

While Alhena and Maegan opted for different-flavored teas. We chatted and laughed as we waited for our drinks to arrive, and I felt a sense of contentment being surrounded by my closest friends in such a charming setting.

As we waited for our orders to arrive. It felt like time was standing still, and all that mattered was being together in that moment, enjoying each other's company.

When our drinks and desserts finally arrived, I couldn't help but take a moment to admire the beautiful presentation. The iced matcha latte looked refreshing and enticing, and as I took my first sip, I knew I had made the right choice. The smooth, earthy flavor of the matcha blended perfectly with the creaminess of the milk.

"Wow, this matcha latte is amazing!" I exclaimed, savoring each sip.

We noticed a small stage set up in one corner of the cafe. A local band began to perform, filling the space with lively music and a lively atmosphere. Our impromptu hangout turned into a mini celebration, and we couldn't help but sway to the rhythm of the music.

"We should totally do this more often," Maegan suggested with a smile, her eyes glowing with happiness.

Alhena agreed, "Absolutely! Life gets busy, but we should make time for moments like these."

I nodded, feeling blessed to have such wonderful friends who cherished the simple joys of life as much as I did. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the feeling of belonging were precious gifts that I would forever cherish.

As we were chatting and having a great time, I noticed my brother calling my name. I was taken aback to see him at the Treehouse Cafe, and he quickly made his way over to us. He looked surprised to find me with Alhena and Maegan.

"Luna, what are you doing here?" he asked, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.

I smiled, feeling a bit amused by his reaction. "Oh, I'm here with Alhena and Maegan. We decided to hang out at this cafe," I replied.

"Hi, Kuya Arc." Bati nila Maegan at Alhena.

He looked around at our group of friends and chuckled.

Pasimple naman yumuko ng ulo si Kuya sa kanila at ngumiti.

"And why are you here? Alam mo rin pala itong treehouse cafe?" curious na tanong ko.

"No, my friend Orion told me about this place, Alhena's brother," he replied.

Kapatid? Tanong ko sa sarili ko

"Oh, kasama mo siya Kuya Arc?" Tanong ni Alhena kay Kuya

"Oo, nasa restroom lang pero paalis na rin kami dahil nagmamadali kami. May pupuntahan pa kasi kami eh."

Nang ilang sandali ay nakita ko ang lalaki na bumangga sa akin noong papunta ako sa school, ilang days na rin ang nakakalipas.

Nagulat ako ng tinawag niya si Kuya, agad naman lumingon si Kuya at doon ko napagtanto na kaibigan ni Kuya at kapatid ni Alhena ang nakabangga sa akin dahil lang sa tinawag nito si Kuya Arche.

"Wait, s-siya ba 'yong sinasabi mo na kaibigan mo? At k-kapatid ni Alhena?" I stuttered, finding it hard to believe. Mygad, my heart couldn't seem to calm down.

I noticed Kuya furrowing his brows, probably sensing my awkwardness. "Yes, why? Do you know each other?" he asked.

Napalunok naman ako sa tanong niya, pero nang magsasalita na sana ako ng bigla itong nagsalita.

"U-um, siya 'yong sinasabi ko sa’yo no'n Arc na nabangga ko, kaya na-late ako no'ng practice natin sa basketball,"

Lumingon naman si Kuya sa direksyon nito at kita ko naman ang pagtango at pagsang-ayon ni Kuya sa paliwanag niya.

"Ah... So, kapatid ko pala 'yong nabangga mo."

Then he looked back at me. "Ikaw naman pala may kasalanan Luna eh," dagdag nito

Nagulat naman ako dahil sa sinabi niya. Aba ba’t nabaliktad yata, ba't parang ako pa ang nasisi?

I crossed my arms, feeling a bit defensive. "Hindi mo ba narinig ‘yong sinabi niya, ako raw 'yong nabangga niya eh, ba't parang sa'kin pa 'yong sisi aber ha!" I muttered under my breath.

Mag-aaway pa yata kami dito, lakas talaga ng amats ng kuya ko papahiyaan pa ako sa crush ko hays.

"Kung maayos at tumitingin ka sana daan edi sana hindi ito male-late si Orion sa practice namin," mahinahon niyang sabi.

"Pasalamat ka talaga crush ko ‘yong kasama mo, kung hindi kanina pa kita sinakal," pero hindi ko sinabi ‘yan sakaniya, sa isip ko lang sinabi 'yan, mabait pa rin ako noh.

Nakikita ko naman 'yong pasimpleng tawa ni Orion habang nasa likod niya si Kuya

"Na-late din naman ako ha!!" galit kong sabi

"Baka na lov-" pinutol ko agad 'yong idadagdag niyang sasabihin, dahil alam ko na agad ang pinupunto niya.

"Osige na, diba sabi mo may kailangan kayong puntahan at nagmamadali kayo. Sige na alis na kayo, ba-bye!" Pagtutulak ko kay kuya palabas ng cafe kasama ang kaibigan niyang si Orion.

Nang nakaalis na sila ay nakahinga na ako ng malalim, at dumiretso na sa table namin.

Agad na akong umupo, "Ba't naman di mo naman sinabi Alhena na kapatid mo siya?" Pag-aangal ko

"Eh, hindi ka naman nagtatanong at tsaka si Kuya Orion pala 'yong tinutukoy mo no'n na nakabangga sa'yo ha."

Napa hinto nalang ako bigla at napaiwas, at kinuha ang iced matcha latte para inumin. Bigla kasing nanuyo 'yong lalamunan ko sa nangyayari.

"'Yong time na na love at first sight daw ang beshy natin, and sakto kapatid pa ni Alhena." pabirong sabi ni Maegan

Nagtawanan naman sila Alhena at Maegan na parang parehas ang iniisip at may kilig.

"Alam mo bang tawag do’n? It’s called destiny." dagdag ulit ni Maegan.

Ngumiti nalang ako at confident na nagsalita. "Ano ba kayo, Hindi ah, biro lang yun. At tsaka nagulat lang talaga ako nung una naming pagkikita," sabi ko, inaasahan ang pabirong mga reaksyon nila.

After our fun-filled gala with Alhena and Maegan, where we went to various places, we finally decided to head home since it was almost 6 p.m. and my parents were looking for me. As we walked back, we talked about the wonderful day we had. I could feel my parents' concern for me, and I wanted to get home soon to put their minds at ease.

"Guys, this gala was so much fun! I never expected it to be this enjoyable," Alhena said with a big smile.

"Oo nga, sobrang saya! We should definitely do this again," dagdag ni Maegan.

I smiled and agreed, "Yeah, correct. We really need these kinds of moments to relieve the stress from school."

As we arrived in front of our subdivision, Nagpaalam na rin ako sa mga kaibigan ko, "Alhena, Maegan, thank you again for everything today. Take care on your way home."

"Thanks, Luna! You take care too!" they both said, giving me a warm hug.