NEVER KNEW I NEEDED

A Team Confe Fan Fiction

CHARACTERS:

Main Characters:

Elmo – Architecture student na bad boy

Julie – Law student na good girl

Minor Characters:

Maqui – Culinary student and Julie’s besfriend

Sef – Fine Arts student and bestfriend nila Julie at Maqui

YOLO Boys (Alden, Kris, Derrick, Steven) – barkada ni Moe

Lauren – Moe’s girlfriend

Yassi, Rita and Lexi – Lo’s friends

Magalona Family

San Jose Family

*****

PROLOGUE

What if you meet a person in a most unexpected way?

What if that person irritates you the most?

What if it will take just one night to change your life?

What if things get too complicated but still find its way back to love?

WHAT IF THE ONE PERSON THAT YOU THOUGHT YOU WOULD HATE IS THE ONE WHO WILL CHANGE
YOUR LIFE FOREVER?

WHAT IF THAT PERSON IS THE ONE THAT YOU NEVER KNEW YOU NEEDED?

Read and find out. Enjoy!

*****

CHAPTER 1

“Friend, gora tayo sa cr. Magbburst na ang bladder ko!” sabi ni Sef. It was another Friday night at nasa
frat party nanaman sila. They are not party goers na kagaya ng bestfriend nilang si Maqui. In fact,
madalang sila umattend sa mga ganitong event. Sadyang free time lang nila pareho kaya naisipan nilang
pumunta and Maqui told them na may ipakikilala ito sa kanila na siya namang kina-excite ni Sef.

“Ano ba naman yan. Sino ba kasing nagsabi sa iyong tunggain mo yung punch?” reklamo ni Julie as they
walked towards the restrooms. Naunang natapos mag-cr si Julie at nang palabas na siya ay bigla siyang
nabangga ng isang lalaki.

“OUCH!”

Nilagpasan lang siya nito at saka na naglakad pabalik sa party. Siya naman, naghintay pa kay Sef.

“Pakabagal talaga ng baklang yun. Nanilip nanaman siguro.” she said to herself.

“Tara na friend!” Sef said nang makalapit ito sa kanya.

“Bagal mo ha. Nabangga na ko’t lahat nasa loob ka pa rin ng men’s cr. Nanilip ka nanaman no?!” sermon
niya rito.

“Grabe ka, friend! Hindi kaya. Nahiya ako sayo eh. Baka kasi mainip ang beauty mo, maging dragon ka
nanaman. Hahaha.” Sagot nito.

“Tss. Tara na nga! I texted Maqui, at on the way pa lang daw siya. Dun muna tayo sa labas. Ang init dito
eh.” Tumango naman si Sef kaya naglakad na sila papalabas ng gym.

*****

“Yun ba pare?” tanong ni Derrick.

“Yes, bro. She didn’t even apologize! Grabe.” Sagot naman ni Elmo.
“Ano, dude? Resbakan na natin?” si Kris.

“Haha. Tayo pa ba, guys? Di natin pinapalagpas mga ganyan.” Steven added. They all walked to where
their next victims are at saka tumayo sa harap ng mga ito.

“I think you owe our friend, an apology.” panimula ni Kris. Tumingin naman sa kanila ang mga ito at saka
nagtinginan.

“A what?” tanong ng dalaga.

“An apology. Binangga mo siya at hindi ka man lang nagsorry.” Derrick said.

“Excuse me? I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Look, miss. Magsorry ka na lang kung ayaw mo ng gulo.” sabi ni Steven.

“Eh kanino ba magsosorry ‘tong si friend? Sinetch ba kayo?” pagtataka ng kasama nitong bakla. The
group of boys scowled at saka pa sila tinignan ng masama.

“Seriously? Hindi niyo kami kilala?” Derrick asked habang nagpipigil ng tawa.

“Kilala. Close tayo eh. Mga tanong naman nito, friend. Pang bobo.” sabi nito at saka pa tumingin sa
kanila. “Malamang hindi! Tatanungin ko ba kung sinetch kayo kung knows ko kayo? Gosh!
Nagkakawrinkles ako sa mga ‘to, friend!” dagdag niya at nagpunas pa kunyari ng pawis sa noo.

“Aba loko ‘tong baklang ‘to ah!” sabi ni Kris at saka pa aambahan ng suntok si Sef.

“Ay! Friend oh! Frieeeeend! Jojombagin ako ng shonget na ‘to!” sumbong nito at saka pa nagtago sa
likod ng kaibigan.

“Look, guys. Hindi namin kayo kilala and we don’t even know what you’re talking about. Pero kung sa
ikatatahimik niyo, fine. Sorry kung kanino man. Just leave us alone. Nananahimik kami dito eh.” the girl
said. Nagtawanan naman silang magbabarkada na ikinataka ng dalawa.

“Sorry, miss. But we don’t accept apologies na ganun-ganun na lang.” and with that, they poured the
contents of their beer bottles at the two at saka pa nagtawanan.

*****

Nagulat sila nang ibuhos sa kanilang dalawa ang beer ng mga lalaking kumausap sa kanila.

“OMG! UGH!” iritang sabi ni Sef. “Yung favorite shoes ko! Kurt Geiger ‘to friend! Alamoyan. Pinadala pa
ni dad ‘to. Ugh!!” reklamo pa niya.

“Uy, guys! Ano nanamang trip ‘to?” a guy asked na halatang kadarating lang. Lumapit ito sa kanilang
dalawa. “Miss, okay lang kayo?” tanong nito.
“Ha? Uh, yeah. Okay lang kami.” Sagot ni Julie.

“Come on, A. May atraso kay Moe ‘yang dalawang ‘yan. They deserve that.” Sagot ni Kris.

“Dudes, sana kinausap niyo na lang. Di naman sila tulad nung iba nating pinagttripan eh.”

“Ewan ko sa’yo Mr. Goody. Let’s go boys.” Sabi ni Steven at saka na sila naglakad palayo.

“Are you guys okay?” tanong ulit ng lalaki sa kanila.

“Yeah. Uhm… Sige uwi na lang kami.” Julie replied at saka na hinatak si Sef papunta sa parking lot.

“Ts. Yung Kurt Geiger’s ko, friend. Dirty na!”

“Shut up, Sef. Uwi na tayo. Nalalagkitan na ko.” Sabi ni Julie at saka na sila nagdrive papunta sa condo
nila.

*****

“What?! Umuwi na kayo? Ts. Ganyan ka, Jules. Di niyo ko hinintay. I told you I’m on my way.”

“Maq, something came up kasi. Basta. If you want to stay there, okay lang. Dito na lang kami ni Sef sa
condo. We’ll wait for you.”

“Kurt Gieger’s yun, Maqui! Kurt Geiger’s!!!” singit ni Sef.

“Ano nanamang nirereklamo niyan ni bakla?” tanong ni Maqui.

“Yung shoes niya. As usual.”

“Ts. Sabihin mo wala akong paki sa branded shoes niya. I’ll be there in 30. ‘Kay?”

“’Kay, Maq.”

“Di na ko magsstay dito. Wala naman na kayo eh. See you later, girls. Wait for me. I’ll bring pizza.”

*****

Pagdating ni Maqui sa condo ay nadatnan niyang nagkkwentuhan sina Julie at Sef habang yakap ng huli
ang sapatos nito.

“Anyare sa inyo?” Maqui asked as she places the pizza on top of the center table.

“Tanungin mo yung Frat boys. Mga buset. Look oh! They ruined my shoes!!” sumbong ni Sef. Maqui
shook her head and looked at Julie. Expecting her to tell the whole story.
“Ganito kasi yun. We were waiting for you at the school garden kasi super init sa loob ng gym. Then may
lumapit sa amin na 3 boys. They want me to apologize to someone na hindi ko naman kilala. They didn’t
want to leave us alone so I said sorry, thinking na aalis na nga sila. But to our surprise, binuhos nila yung
beer sa amin ni Sef. And there. Nagreklamo na si Sef about his shoes getting sticky because of what
happened and we went home na mukhang mga basang sisiw.” Julie narrated.

“Sino naman yung boys na yun?”

“I don’t know eh. But they look like Juniors din naman.”

“Mga feeling gwapo sila, Maq. Feeling gwapo looking gago naman!!!”

“Sef.” Julie said.

“Truelaloo naman, girl. Aminin mo! And heto pa, Maq. Feeling popular!”

“Sef.” Sabay na sabi ng dalawa.

“Totoo naman! Haynako. They ruined my Kurt Geiger’s. And because of that, I’ll ruin their college life.”

“Tss. Hayaan niyo, girls. Ako bahala sa mga yun. Wala man lang bang nakakita sa ginawa nila?”

“Ay, girl meron! Papa!! Ay grabe! Ang dimples, pak! Ang smile, pak na pak! Kaya nga lang, friendship
niya yung 3 feeling gwapo. So, warlaloo din ako sa kanya. And, he was looking at Julie the whole time. Di
man lang napansin ang beauty ko. Buset!” Sef answered.

“Atleast, someone helped you guys. Di bale. Hahanapin ko mga yan.”

“Thanks, Maq.” Julie said as she hugged her bestfriend.

“Sure thing, dear.” Hinug sila ni Maqui at saka na sila kumain pagkatapos.

“Pero yung Kurt Geiger’s ko talaga eh.”

“CADAYONA!!”

CHAPTER 2

Break time na nila and kasalukuyang naglalakad si Julie papunta sa canteen para makasabay kumain sina
Sef at Maqui.

“Hi, guys!” bati niya sa mga ito pagkaupo sa tabi ni Sef.

“Hey, girlfriend!” masayang bati naman ni Sef at saka pa sila nagbeso.

“Hi, dear!” bati ni Maqui at saka hinalikan si Julie sa pisngi. Sakto naman dumating ang boyfriend ni
Maqui na may dalang pagkain para sa kanila.

“Yun oh! Hi, Frank!” bati ni Julie at saka kinuha ang carbonara na binili ni Frank para sa kanya.

“Frankenstein, bakit wala akong yoghurt? I told you, bet ko yung yoghurt! Maqui, hiwalayan si Frank,
ngayon din!” sabi ni Sef habang kinukuha ang pizza slice niya. “Aray!” sabi niya nang batukan siya ni
Julie.

“Sorry naman, Sef. I forgot eh.” natatawang sagot ni Frank.

“Hehe. Joke lang, Frank.”

“Hay nako, Cadayona. Umiiral nanaman kamalditahan mo ha.”

“Eh kasi nga yung…”

“Kurt Geiger’s mo. Oo na. Hahaha. It’s been a week, Sef. Di pa din naka move on?” Julie asked.

“Nope! And I don’t think I can move on. Friend, napagalitan ako ni papito dahil dun. He was breathing
fire! Gravity talaga. Crayola Khomeni na lang ang nagawa ko. Wiz na ko fumight. Dragon yun eh.”

“Why don’t you just ask him to buy you a new pair? Para san pa at owner kayo ng hotel sa London
diba?” Frank suggested.

“Frankenstein, I tried that already. Eh kaso, ang shonders umiral pagkakuripot.” Nagtawanan naman ang
tatlo. “Buset nga eh. Pano na ko nito? Wala na kong shoes.” Pagdadrama ni Sef.

“Sapak you want? Anong walang shoes eh yung isang closet mo sa bahay, puro sapatos!” sabi ni Maqui.

“Marie Frencheska Mae Tobia Farr, alamonamang I don’t like to wear my shoes more than once. Unless
favorite ko siya. And super konti lang ng shoes ko okay!” natigil sa pagrereklamo si Sef nang…

“GOOD AFTERNOON COLLEGE STUDENTS. WE WILL HAVE ANOTHER FRAT PARTY THIS FRIDAY. SAME
TIME, SAME PLACE! WE’RE GONNA BRING THE HOUSE DOWN!!!” announced ng isa sa mga Frat Boys.

“Another party? Ano guys? Tara punta tayo!!” pagyaya ni Maqui.

“Thanks but no thanks, dear. Sef and I had enough of that.” Sagot ni Julie.

“Come on, Jules. Punta na tayo. Last na ‘to promise.” Maqui pleaded.

“No, Maq. Di na kami gogorabambam diyan. Masyado na kaming nahurt last time.” Sef answered.
“Ts. Last naman na eh. If something bad happens again, di na tayo aattend sa parties. Tsaka di ko pa nga
kayo napapakilala dun sa dapat na iintroduce ko last party eh.”

“We can meet them kapag walang party.”

“No. Sa Frat parties lang sila usually nagpupunta. Kaya dali na guys. Sef, mga gwapo yun.” Maqui told
Sef. Nanlaki naman ang mga mata ng kaibigan at saka napatingin kay Julie na seryoso sa pagbabasa ng
law book niya.

“On second thought, Julie Anne. Medyo nabitin ako ng very very light nung last Frat party eh. Bet ko
gumora sa party na ‘to.” Sabi niya.

“Edi pumunta kayo. Basta ako hindi.”

“Come on, Jules. If ever naman na guluhin nanaman kayo nung mga nantrip sa inyo last time, andito
naman ako eh.” Sabi ni Frank.

“Odiba? Frank baby will be with us naman eh. Come on Jules!” excited na sabi ni Maqui.

“Ugh! As if naman kasi di niyo ko titigilan eno? Fine. Pero last na ‘to ha?”

“Yey!!! I love you talaga baby girl!!!” at niyakap na ni Maqui ang bestfriend.

*****

“Nice dress, dear!” sabi ni Maqui nang magkita-kita na sila sa labas ng school.

“Infairness sayo, Jules. Di mo bet pumarty ha?” Sef added.

“As if naman di ka din prepared bakla?” Julie shot at him na siya namang tinawanan ni Maqui.

“Hahaha. Oo nga naman, John Paul Joseph Cadayona. Tignan mo nga yang attire mo. San ka punta?
Famas?”

“Whatever, Marie Frencheska Mae. Makapagsalita ka ah.” Sagot nito sabay irap pa. “Tara na nga sa
loob. Boy hunting na!!”

“Wait, wait. Padating na si Frank eh. Hintayin na natin.”

“Hay nako. We’re wasting our time kaya. Very pagong ng jowabels mo.” Reklamo nanaman ni Sef
habang nagpapaypay gamit ang kamay niya.

“Reklamadora ka talaga, no?” natatawang puna ni Julie.

“Julieta, nagpunta tayo dito para maghanap ng boys. Hindi para maghintay sa jowabels nitong si Marie.”
Julie shook her head as she giggles at her friend’s remark.
“Ayan na pala siya eh.” They heard Maqui said. Paglingon nila ay saktong naglalakad na si Frank papunta
sa kinauupuan nila.

“Sorry late ako, babe. I had to do kuya duties muna eh.” Sabi nito.

“Okay lang. Tara na sa loob. The party had started na.” pagyaya ni Maqui. Pumasok na silang apat sa
loob ng gym at nakihalubilo na sa mga kaibigan nila dun.

*****

The party’s going well. Masaya ang lahat na nagsasayawan at nagtatawanan. They were drinking and
eating and just having the time of their lives.

“Girls, tara dun. Papakilala ko kayo sa kapatid ni Frank tsaka sa friends niya.” Sabi ni Maqui at saka pa
hinatak ang dalawa. They walked towards the mobile bar kung nasan ang mga kaibigan ni Maqui.

*****

“Guys, guys. I want you to meet my bestfriends.” Sabi ni Maqui sa kanila.

“Sige Maq. Hahaha.”

“Wait lang ha. Hanapin ko sila.”

CHAPTER 3

Laking gulat nila Sef and Julie ng makita nila kung sino ang gusto ipakilala ni Maqui sakanila.

“I want you to meet my bestfriends, Julie and Sef.” Sabi niya. Paglapit nila tsaka nagsalita ulit si Maqui.
“Girls, sina Steven, Kris, Derrick, Alden and Elmo.”

“OH MY GEE!!! MARIE FRENCHESKA MAE TOBIA FARR, SINCE WHEN DID YOU HAVE FRIENDS NA KASING
SHONGET NG MGA BOBITONG ‘TO?!” mataray at halos malokang sabi ni Sef sakanila.

“So, look who’s here again guys. Haha!” Pang-asar na sabi ni Kris.

“Wait. We’re not here to have an argument with you again guys. We’re here to party.” Julie is getting
pissed off now.
“So, sila yung sinasabi niyo sakin na nagbuhos sainyo ng beer last frat party?” Maqui asked.

“Paulit ulit tayo dito Maqui? Oo, sila yung nagmurder sa Kurt Geiger’s ko, Marie! Pero, wait lang, asan na
yung cute niyong friend na may dimples at may smile na pak na pak?” Malanding tanong ni Sef kina Kris.

“Ano ba Cadayona! Nagawa mo pang lumandi!” Bulong ni Julie.

“Ehhh sayang ang moment teh!” Kinikilig na sabi ni Sef.

“Sino ba kasi sakanila yung binangga mo, Jules?” Maqui asked.

“Di ko nga matandaan Maqui, madilim kasi paglabas ng cr.” Paliwanag naman ni Julie.

“Anyways, guys I want you to meet my two bestfriends. Sef Cadayona and Julie Anne San Jose.” Maqui
said to the frat boys.

“Hi, I’m Kris.”

“Derrick nga pala.”

“Yo, I’m Steven.” With matching shake hands pa.

Biglang dumating si Elmo at ang goody goody guy na si Alden.

“Bestfriends mo sila, Maq?!” gulat na tanong ni Elmo.

“Oo, Elmo. At alam ko na rin na pinagtripan ninyo sila ng barkada mo.” Inis na sabi ni Maqui kay
Magalona.

“At anong ginawa namin sakanila ha?” Nakakaloko na tanong ni Elmo kay Maqui.

“Anong ginawa? Nabangga ka because you weren’t looking at ikaw pa ang may ganang magalit? Ha
Elmo?” hindi nakakibo ang magkakaibigan dahil dito. “And you asked your friends to get even on them
kaya pinagtripan niyo sila by pouring beer on them?!” walang nakasagot sa kanilang 5 dahil galit na galit
na ang itsura ni Maqui. “Ano? Napipi na kayong 5?! Ano, Elmo? Sinong mas may atraso ngayon? Silang
dalawa na obvious namang di sinadya yung pagkakabangga niyo o kayong 5 na napaka-childish ng mga
ginagawa?”

“Maq, tama na.” Julie said.

“No, Jules. I told you na ako bahala sa inyo ni Sef at ngayong kilala ko na kung sino yung mga nantrip sa
inyo, mas nanggagalaiti ako.” She answered. Lumingon siya ulit kanila Elmo at saka pa nagpatuloy, “Ano,
Elmo? Hindi ka magsosorry?”

“Why should I?”

“Ah hindi pala ha?! Fine. Let’s see kung anong sasabihin ni Frank about this.” Maqui said.

“Frank?! Bakit kailangan malaman pa ng kapatid ko?”

“Wait, Maq. Kapatid niya si Frank?!” gulat na tanong ng dalawa.

*****

“Hindi ako makamove on. I mean, brother bear ng jowa mo yung kumag na yun?! Ay jusko!” Sef said.

“Oo nga, Maq. How come you never mentioned him to us?” Julie asked. “I mean, nakukwento mo yung
ibang kapatid ni Frank but you never mentioned that Elmo guy.”

“Elmo is very distant kasi. He’s like the black sheep in the family. Puro problema nga kinukwento ni
Frank about Moe eh.”

“Obviously, Frencheska! Mabait si Frank. Yung kapatid naman niya… demonyito! Jusmiyo marimar!
Tumataas ang blood pressure ko just by thinking about that ugly guy!!” si Sef.

“Guys, mabait naman actually si Moe eh. Yun nga lang, di ko alam bakit biglang nagrebelde yun. Ever
since their dad died, naging ganun na daw ugali niya. Laging nangtitrip, walang paki kung bumagsak sa
subjects niya, nagbubulakbol and palaging galit. Samantalang dati, he’s very studious. Ang gaganda pa
nga ng drawings niya eh.”
“Hold your horses, Maqui. Don’t tell me Fine Arts din course nun? Nako, ipapajombag ko yun sa
basketball players ng department namin!” maarteng sabi ni Sef.

“Shunga! Architecture yun.”

“Ah. Mabuti naman. Nililinaw ko lang, friend.”

“Pero Maq. Wala naman sigurong reason para maging ganun siya. Mukhang okay naman ang family nila
ah.”

“Yun nga pinagtataka ni Frank. Si Elmo ang pinakamabait sa kanilang magkakapatid noon. Pero yun nga.
Things changed.” Bigla namang may malakas na music na nagmumula sa ibang unit na ikinairita
nanaman ng mukha ni Julie.

“Ugh! Ayan nanaman siya. Nagpapatugtog nanaman!!!” asar na sabi nito.

“Sinetch, girl?”

“Yung bagong lipat dito. He’s been reported twice already dahil nga sa ingay niya pero he doesn’t seem
to care. Alam niyo bang last week, nireklamo na siya ni Ate Cheska dahil yung baby niya laging hindi
nakakatulog ng maayos. Tas nung isang araw naman, si Lolo Robert nagreklamo. Yung matanda sa dulo
ng hallway. Yun. Napakaingay naman kasi.”

“Eh bakit hindi mo itry ireklamo ulit?”

“Nanahimik kasi yan the whole day kahapon so akala ko nakinig na sa management. Yun pala nagpalipas
lang.” sakto naman at biglang nagstop na ang music. “Ayan tumigil na. Napagali…” Hindi pa man siya
tapos magsalita ay nagpatugtog nanaman ang kapitbahay. It was louder than the first song at nairita na
maging sina Maqui at Sef.

“Julieta, pag di mo nireport yan, ipapasalvage ko na yan!!!” galit na sabi ni Sef.

“Argh! Naiirita na ko ha. Diyan lang kayo!”

*****
He was taking a shower after niya sa gym. Kumakanta-kanta pa siya along with his music habang
nagsasabon ng katawan when he heard a loud bang. Hindi niya iyon pinansin at nagpatuloy lang sa
pagkanta nang marinig ito ulit.

“Ts. What the hell?” sabi niya at saka lumabas ng shower area at nagpunas. Dun lang niya narealize na
katok pala iyon sa pinto niya. “Tss. Baka si tanda nanaman.” He said to himself. Lumabas na siya ng
banyo at naglakad papunta sa main door. He looked at the peephole pero wala naman siyang nakita.
“Ay! I forgot. He’s a small man pala. Hahaha.” he said. Hinayaan lang niya iyon dahil tumigil naman sa
pagkatok kaya nagpunta na siya sa kwarto.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Oh come on! Can’t a guy go get dressed first?!” iritang sabi niya habang naglalakad papunta sa main
door.

*****

“Buset. Bakit ba hindi binubuksan yung pinto?! Naiirita na ko ha!” Julie said. Nakatayo sa may main door
niya sina Maqui at inaabangan rin ang pugbukas ng pinto ng kapitbahay nitong nambubulahaw sa buong
22nd floor.

“Baka naman bingi kaya di ka marinig, girl.” Sabi ni Sef na abala sa pagkain ng Cheetos. Tumingin naman
ang dalawa sa kanya ng masama. “What? Eh sa lakas ng music niya, if he calls it music ha. Sino bang di
mabibingi? Ako nga feeling ko mag-eexplode ang eardrums ko any moment eh.” Dagdag pa nito.

“Katok ka ulit, Jules. Mas malakas. Baka nga di niya marinig dahil sa lakas ng volume ng speakers niya.”

“More like, amplifiers. Feeling niya, Araneta ‘to?” sabat nanaman ni Sef.

“Tsk. Nakakainis.” Kumatok ulit si Julie and this time, she made sure na malakas na iyon. “Pag hindi pa
niya binuksan to, ewan ko na lang ha.” Sabi niya sa mga kaibigan. “Oh. Bakit parang gulat kayong dalawa
diyan?” pagtataka niya nang makitang napanganga ang dalawa at nanlaki ang mga mata.

“J-Julieta…” Sef pointed at the door.

“Ha?” ngumuso naman si Sef at saka pa pinanlakihan uli ng mata si Julie. “Ewan ko sayo, Jeg!” sabi niya
at saka muling humarap sa pinto ng katapat na unit. Laking gulat niya dahil ang kaninang pintuan ay isa
ng topless na nilalang. Pag-angat niya para tignan kung sino ang demigod na iyon ay nag-init ang ulo
niya.

“IKAW?!”

CHAPTER 4

“How’s your neighbor, girl?” Sef asked. Nasa school garden silang dalawa nun at naghihintay matapos
ang klase ni Maqui. Balak kasi nilang magshopping na tatlo at balak din mag-overnight nila Sef at Maqui
sa condo ni Julie.

“Edi ano pa? A total nuisance…” Julie answered as she lies on the grass.

Napailing na lang si Julie nung maalala niya yung nangyari nung araw na sisitahin niya sana ang
kapitbahay niyang iyon.

*FLASHBACK*

She was shocked when the guy came out topless, buti na lang talaga to the rescue si Maqui. Unluckily, it
was Elmo. Instead na awayin niya si Elmo, wala siyang nasabi at si Maqui na lang ang nanermon dito. At
ayun si Sef, nagtwinkle twinkle ang mga mata ng makita ang topless Elmo. The next day, akala niya okay
na lahat, pero lalo pa siyang inaasar ni Elmo. Kada katok niya, walang ginawa si Magalona kundi asarin
siya. Isa na rito ang famous smirk smile ni Magalona, na talaga naming kinaasaran ni Julie.

*END OF FLASHBACK*

Habang nagkukwento si Julie, walang ginawa si Sef kundi ang tumawa.

“Bakit ka ba tawa ng tawa diyan? What a friend. Hindi pa ko nakakatulog ng maayos simula nung
Sunday. Hay.” Inis na sabi ni Julie.

“Hahaha. Kaya pala…”

“Kaya pala ano?”

“Kaya pala kamukha mo nanaman si Godzilla. HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!” pinaghahampas naman siya ni Julie
ng libro habang tumatawa rin ito. “Aray! Aray, Julieta! Stop it! Jinojombag mo ko, aray! Jojombagin din
kita. Ano?!”

“Godzilla ka diyan?!”

“Truelaloo naman girl. Look at you! Ang laki ng eyebags mo, ang itim ng ilalim ng mata mo… Mukha ka
ng panda. ARAY!”

“Tigilan mo ko, John Paul Joseph ha.”

“I was just kidding, Julie Anne. Ts. Ang body ko!! It hurts everywhere. Kasalanan mo to. Pag ako namaga,
I’ll sue you!!”

“Pakaarte mo, Sef.”

“Gaga. Ganun talaga girl para may thrill ang life. Hahahaha.”

“GIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIRLS!!!” they heard a high-pitched cry. Saktong paglingon nila ay si Maqui pala.

“Maka-sigaw ka naman, girl. Ganyan ka kaexcited teh?” Maarteng puna ni Sef.

“Oo naman yes, bakla! So, what’s our plan today?” Tanong ni Maqui.

“Girl, sumushonda ka na yata. Lagi ka na lang nakakalimot. Anyare, ateng? May Alzheimer’s lang ang peg
ha? Haha!” Natatawang tanong ni Sef.

Si Julie naman nakikinig lang sa paguusap ng dalawang bestfriends at tawa lang ng tawa. “Ano ba kayong
dalawa, ang usapan magshashopping tayo then overnight at my place. Gorabambam na tayiz!” At sabay
sabay silang nagtawanan dahil sa sinabi ni Julie.

“Shet, Julieta. Di bagay sayo mag-pakabeki tulad ko.” Sef said. “Don’t worry girl. I’ll send you a soft copy
of my badingtionary. Okay?” dagdag pa nito.

“Ay! Nga pala, girls. Frank baby’s coming with us ha? We’ll meet him at the mall na lang.”

“Yung totoo, Maqui? Di na talaga kayo mapaghihiwalay ng jowabels mo? As in leech na ang peg?”

“Mamili ka, Jeg. Frank comes with us, may magbubuhat ng shopping bags natin or di ko na lang siya
papuntahin and you’ll be the one to carry all our bags?”

“Sabi ko naman sayo, Julieta eh. Masakit ang braso ko. Marie, tawagan si Francis Jr. ngayon din! Ayoko
sa lahat pinagwawaiting in vain akets eh.” Mataray na sabi ng bakla.

“Psh. Mga tactics mo talaga, bakla. Tara na nga.”

*****
“Ang boring…” panimula ni Kris. Nasa tambayan nanaman sila sa rooftop ng university at kasalukuyang
mga nakatunganga lang. Hindi sila pumasok sa isang subject nila dahil ayaw nila yung prof.

“Oo nga.” Pag-agree ni Derrick.

“Why don’t we go to the mall? Maiba lang.” Steven suggested.

“Hm. Pwede. We can go to the arcade. Parang ginagawa natin dati. Diba?” Alden added.

“Oo nga. Nakakamiss magbasketball dun eh. Ano tara?” masayang sabi ni Kris.

“What a childish thing. Mall? Boring dun.”

“Mas boring naman dito, Elmo. Tara na.” pagyaya ng 4 sa kanya. Wala naman ng nagawa si Elmo dahil
nakaladkad na siya ng mga kabarkada.

*****

“San na ba jowa mo? I want to shop na!” naiinip na si Sef dahil wala pa rin si Frank. “Very slow talaga.
Kajirits.”

“Makareklamo ka naman, Sef.” Puna ni Julie.

“Julieta, kanina pa kaya tayo ditey.”

“Anong kanina? Hoy bakla, kakadating lang natin dito. Mga 5 minutes ago pa lang.” Maqui told him
habang pinapakita pa ang suot nitong wrist watch.

“Whatever. Naiinip na ko.”

“Hahaha. Anyway, Maq. Order muna kami ni Sef ha?” sabi ni Julie at saka pa hinatak patayo si Sef.

“My gosh, Julieta. Ang clingy mo nanaman sa akin! Baka isipin ng mga tao, boyfriend mo ko! Eww. I’m
not a lesbian!!!”

“Kapal naman ng mukha mo Jeg! Hands down sa kakapalan!”

“Eh kasi eh. Why don’t you order on your own. Sitting pretty na akets eh.”

“Ikaw magdadala ng tray eh. Angal?!”

“Do I look like a slave to you?! OH MY GEE. Sa ganda kong ‘to, alila mo lang ako?!”

“Ay!! Wag na maarte. Tara na dali.” Naglakad na sila papunta sa counter and pumila.

“Ay, girl. Tignan mo. Sinetch yung mga kausap ni Maqui?” pagtataka ni Sef at saka pa tinuro kay Julie ang
isang grupo ng mga lalaki.
“Hm. Di ko alam. Baka blockmates niya?”

“Baka nga.”

*****

“Maq!”

“Uy, boys. Andito pala kayo. Wala na kayong class?” she asked the group of boys.

“Wala na. Haha.” Steven answered. “Ikaw? Anong ginagawa mo dito? Mag-isa ka lang?”

“Magshoshopping kami. Kasama ko sina Julie and Sef eh.” Sakto naman at lumabas na ang dalawa mula
sa loob ng store at lumapit sa table nila.

“Oh. Kayo pala. Akala ko kung sino na eh.” Julie said.

“Hi, Julie! Hi, Sef.” Bati nila maliban kay Elmo. Kumaway naman si Julie sa kanila samantalang si Sef ay
ngumiti lang.

“Hi, neighbor!” nakakalokong bati ni Elmo at saka pa nagtaas-baba ng kilay. “Musta eardrums?” inirapan
lang siya ni Julie at saka na umupo.

“Nga pala, may frat party ulit bukas. Punta kayo ha?” pagyaya ni Alden.

“Uy! Himala naman sayo, bro. Ikaw nagyaya sa party!” pang-aasar ni Derrick.

“Baliw. Eh ako kasi yung unang sinabihan nung frat boys kanina.”

“Sama kayo girls… and gay.” Pang-asar ni Kris. Pumayag naman si Maqui and Sef at si Julie naman ay
walang nagawa kundi pumayag na lang. Nagkwentuhan pa sila habang si Elmo naman ay patuloy sa
pang-aasar kay Julie. Samantalang si Julie naman ay hindi na lang siya pinapansin.

*****

“Ayan na pala si Frank eh.” Si Sef. Nakita nilang naglalakad na si Frank palapit sa kanila na siya namang
kinataranta ng 5.

“Moe, why are you here? Your class ends at 7pm pa diba? 4:30 pa lang.” Frank asked. Napatawa naman
sina Sef at Julie samantalang si Maqui ay nagtaka.

“Cutting classes.” Kunyaring inuubong sabi ni Julie. Natawa naman lalo si Sef at napahawak pa sa tiyan at
pinaghahampas hampas pa siya. “Aray ha.”

“Ay sorry girl. Naloka lang ako ng very very light.”

“Moe, bakit nag-cut kayo?” Frank asked his brother.

“Cut? Di kami nag-cut, bro. Wala lang prof kaya di na kami pumasok. Absent daw si Arch. Salonga.”

“Siguraduhin mo lang na totoo yan.”

“Whatever. Sige na.” at naglakad na ito palayo. Sumunod naman ang 4 sa kanya pagkatapos magpaalam
kina Julie.

*****

“Haaaay. Pagoda ever magshopping!” Sef said as soon as they entered Julie’s unit. Late na silang
nakauwi dahil after nila magshopping ay naisipan nilang magdinner muna. Tapos bumili pa sila sa
grocery ng mga kakainin nila sa condo since they’re planning to have a movie marathon.

“Game! Movie marathon na tayo guys!!!” Excited na sabi ni Maqui.

“Sige sige. Anong movies ba yan, Julieta?” Sef asked.

“Hm. We have: The Host, Coming Soon, Insiduous, Leap Year, Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games,
Something Borrowed…” Julie said as she browses through her collection of blu-rays. “Anong gusto
niyong unahin?”

“Hm. Bet ko yung Insiduous.” Sabi ni Maqui.

“Seryoso ka, Marie?”

“Oo. Bakit, John Paul? Takot ka?” natatawang sagot ni Maqui.

“As if! Akets pa ba? Gora na Julieta.” Utos niya. Nilagay naman ni Julie sa player yung dvd at saka na
pumwesto sa tabi ni Sef. Nakayakap naman si Sef sa bowl ng popcorn at si Maqui at Julie naman ay
nakasandal sa balikat niya.

****

They were watching the 3rd movie nang biglang makarinig ng loud music.

“Andyan na siya.” Julie said na halatang asar.

“Sinetch?”

“Sino pa ba? Edi yung kapitbahay niya.” Sabi ni Maqui.

“Ah. Si Magalona ever? Kaya pala maingay nanaman.”

“Yeah. Look at the time. It’s 2am at nag-iingay pa siya. Argh!” asar na sabi ni Julie at saka pa hinilamos
ang kamay sa buong mukha niya. “Buset!” at saka siya tumayo.

“Uy, Julieta! San ka pupunta?” tanong ni Maqui.

“Kakatukin ko. Nakakainis eh!” she answered while walking towards Elmo’s door. Kumatok siya ng
sobrang lakas at agad namang binuksan ni Elmo ang pinto.

“What?!” iritang tanong nito.

“Anong what?! Do you know what time is it, Magalona? It’s 2am at napakalakas ng music mo!!!” she
answered. Naamoy naman niya ang alak mula kay Elmo. “Tapos, lasing ka pa.” dagdag niya.

“Eh ano bang paki mo? I can drink whenever I want and I can play loud music whenever I want!”

“Talaga?! Eh paano naman kaming mga gustong matulog? Di mo man lang ba iisipin na baka maistorbo
kami?!” she answered. “Nakakairita ka na ha?!”

“Wag mo nga akong pakielaman! Di mo naman alam mga pinagdadaanan ko eh!”

CHAPTER 5

“Ganyan ka naman parati eh. Bakit mo sa akin binabalik yung tanong? Why don’t you ask yourself?”

“Kaya nga kita tinatanong diba? Kasi hindi ko alam kung anong problema natin.”

“Yun na nga ang problema eh. Napaka-insensitive mo. Napaka-immature!! And you know what? I’m
tired of this! Can we just give each other space?”

“Fine! You want space? I’ll give you space! Break na tayo!” and with that, Elmo left her. Napaupo na lang
siya sa bench at saka na lang umiyak.

*****

Julie was on her way to the comfort room para mag-ayos nang makakita siya ng isang babaeng umiiyak.
She walked to her and sat next to her.

“Uhm… Miss are you okay?” nagulat siya when the girl hugged her and cried even more. “Uhh… miss?”

“He broke up with me…” sabi nito.

“Ha?”

“My boyfriend. My boyfriend of 3 years, broke up with me.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. Everything happens for a reason. Basta iiyak mo lang yan. It’ll make you feel
better.” She said as she rubs the girl’s back para icomfort ito.
“Hey girl! We’ve been lookin’ all over for you. Andito ka lang pala.” Someone said. Pagtingin ni Julie ay
may 3 babaeng nakatayo na sa tapat nila.

“Oh, bakit ka umiiyak?” tanong ng isa pa.

“He broke up with me…” sagot ng dalaga.

“Mabuti naman at nagbreak na kayo. Wag mo nga siyang iyakan. He doesn’t deserve your tears. Napaka-
immature.”

“You’re not helping…”

“Fine. I’m sorry. I’m just telling the truth”

“Alam niyo girls, we’re here to party kaya cheer up na, beshie.”

“You’re right, girls! Come on. Let’s go to the dancefloor and mingle.” Sabi nito at saka na tumayo.
Naglakad na sila palayo nang biglang huminto muli ang dalaga. She walked back to where Julie was still
seated and hugged her again. “Thanks for comforting me.”

“You’re welcome. I hope you feel better na.” tumango naman ang dalaga and smiled.

“By the way, I’m Lauren.”

*****

SA PARTY…

“Where’s Moe?” Frank asked them nang mapansing nawawala ang kapatid niya.

“Di ko alam bro eh. Nakita ko siya kanina pero biglang nawala.” Sagot ni Alden.

“Baka nasa dancefloor.” Derrick said.

Nagkibit-balikat lang ang magkakaibigan at nagpatuloy na lang sa pag-inom.

“Marie, san si Julieta?” malanding tanong ni Sef kay Maqui.

“Ewan ko. Sabi niya magccr lang siya eh.” Sagot naman nito.

“Ah. Baka naflush na siya. Hahaha.” Sakto namang nakarating na si Julie sa table nila.

“Oh. Andyan ka na pala, Julieta eh. Portugality mo ha. Akala ko nalamon ka na ng bowl eh.”

“Ha? Baliw. May kinausap lang ako.” Sagot niya.

“What? You met someone?” Maqui asked.

“No worries. It’s just a girl.”

“OH MY GEE, JULIE ANNE PEÑAFLORIDA SAN JOSE! SINCE WHEN DID YOU BECOME A JUSTIN
TIMBERLAKE?!”

“Gaga! Porket may kausap na girl, tibolibambam na agad?! Girl ako ha.”

“Yun oh! Bro! Babae naman pala eh. Alamona!!” Derrick said at saka pa inakbayan si Alden.

“Baliw.” Sabi naman ni Alden at saka pa inalis ang kamay ni Derrick na nakaakbay sa kanya.

“Eh girl, type ka pala ni dimples eh.” Bulong ni Sef kay Julie.

“Ewan ko sayo. Sige, I’m gonna go get some water.” She answered and went to the bar counter.

*****

“Okay ka lang?” he heard someone said. Paglingon niya ay si Julie pala. He ignored her and continued
drinking. “Uhm… Sorry about last night.” She continued but still, Elmo ignores her. Julie decides to just
leave him nang…

“I broke up with her. Di ko na kasi maintindihan yung sarili ko.” He started. He heaved a deep sigh at
saka pa nilagok ang isang mug ng beer. Julie sat again and waited for him to continue. “You want a
drink?” he offers her.

“Sure.” She said at inorder na siya ni Moe ng lady’s drink.

“What’s wrong with me? Sabihin mo nga, Julie. May mali ba sa akin?”

“From what I’ve seen, Moe… Ang insensitive mo.”

“Yan din yung reason niya why she wanted space eh.” He replied.

“I’m sorry to hear that. Siguro tama lang talaga na binigyan niyo ng space ang isa’t isa for you to think
things through.”

“Thanks, Julie.” Elmo said. Suddenly nagchange song na ang DJ.

“OH SHOOT! FAVORITE SONG KO!” sabay na sabi ng dalawa.

Let Me Love You Down playing…

“Tara sayaw tayo!” Moe said at saka pa siya hinatak papunta sa dancefloor.

*****
Sa sobrang kalasingan ng dalawa, hindi na nila alam ang ginagawa nila. Elmo’s hands touching Julie’s
whole body and he’s even kissing her nape. Julie was aroused by what he’s doing pero pinilit niyang wag
magpaapekto. Pero babae lang siya, marupok din. Kaya nadadala na rin siya sa ginagawa ni Elmo until
she felt his hard on against her back. Elmo on the other hand felt even more drunk dahil sa amoy ni
Julie. May kakaibang dating iyon na parang naaadik na siya. At dahil dito lalo niyang nararamdaman that
he wants something more. All of a sudden, he pulled Julie out of the dance floor and they ran away.

CHAPTER 6

They ran away and went straight to the parking lot. Biglang pinasandal ni Elmo si Julie sa kotse niya and
kissed her intensely. Julie kissed him back, like a hungry baby. While kissing, Elmo opened his car and let
their body slip inside. They continued kissing until Elmo breaks their kiss.

“Let’s go home…” hingal na sabi niya.

While Elmo’s driving, Julie kept on kissing his neck and nibbling his ears.

“Julie stop it. You’re distracting me…” he said.

“Can you just drive a little faster? I can’t take this anymore, Moe.” Julie said, seductively. Nabuhayan
naman ng loob si Moe kaya binilisan na niya ang pagmamaneho.

Pagdating sa parking lot…

Hinarap ni Elmo si Julie and smiled. His famous smirk.

“You little bad girl. Are you that excited?” He asked.

“You’re very talkative…” Julie said as she grabbed Elmo’s collar and kissed him intensely. Umupo si Julie
sa lap niya and hugged his neck. Elmo opened his car’s door and carried Julie habang ang dalaga nama’y
patuloy sa paghalik sa kanya. Kissing him all over his face and his neck.

“Uhhhh, Juliiiieeeee.” Di na kinakaya ni Elmo ang mga ginagawa sa kanya ni Julie.

Naglakad si Elmo papunta sa elevator, still carrying her. Pagpasok nila ay sinandal niya ang dalaga at
saka siya naman ang humalik dito. Kissing her face, neck and her chest. All you can hear inside the
elevator was Julie’s moan. Pareho na nilang hindi kinakaya ang mga pangyayari.

“Ahhh… Moe…Ahhhhhh..” was all she could say nang halikan ni Elmo and leeg niya. Naturn-on naman si
Elmo nang marinig yun. Sakto namang nagbukas ang elevator door at lumabas na sila.

“Julie, where’s your keys?” Elmo asked her.

“Kiss? I’ve been kissing you simula pa kanina. Naghahanap ka pa rin?” she replied. Natawa naman si
Elmo sa tinuran ng dalaga at saka niya ito hinalikan sa labi.

“I mean, your keys, baby. Yung susi sa unit mo.” He whispered. Julie gave him her unit’s keys and he
opened it. As he closed the door, Julie backed him up against it and kissed him hard.Their foreplaying
becoming more intense. Isa-isa na nilang tinatanggal ang damit ng isa’t isa while not breaking their kiss.

Habang naglalakad sila papunta sa kwarto ay tinatanggal naman ni Julie ang shirt ni Elmo. She then
unbuckled his belt. Pagdating nila sa kwarto agad-agad namang hiniga ni Elmo si Julie sa kama at saka
siya na mismo ang naghubad nang tuluyan sa pants niya leaving his boxers on. He went back to kissing
her passionately then kissed her down her neck to her chest at tsaka niya tinanggal ang damit ng dalaga
by unzipping it using his lips. He was awestrucked with how sexy Julie is with only her undies on.

“Moe, I guess sobrang hard ka na.” She said while looking at his manhood.

“Ikaw kasi eh.” He replied. Julie sat up and touched his chest.

“So what are you waiting for? Kiss me. Now.” Elmo kissed her lustfully while unhoooking her bra. Elmo
looked at Julie’s bosom and he smirked. Hinalikan niya ulit si Julie hanggang sa halikan niya ang
malulusog nitong dibdib. He then laid her down habang ang kaliwang kamay niya ay nakasapo sa
kaliwang dibdib ng dalaga and his lips busy with sucking her right breast.

“Uhhhh… Moe… Oooohh…Aaaang sarap niyan Elmoooo—-ooohhh” Julie moaned, while arching her
back.

Hinalikan siya muli ng binata at saka bumaba ang halik nito sa leeg niya, tracing her whole body until he
reached her belly button. He removed Julie’s panty with his mouth at tinulungan naman siya ni Julie
with his.

“Shit, Julie ang bango.” He said while sniffing her panty. “Lalo akong nalilibugan sa’yo.” Dagdag niya.
Nahiya naman si Julie sa ginagawa ni Elmo.

“Give me that.” She said as she snatched away her undies.

“Wag ka na mahiya. Nakita ko naman na lahat eh.” Nakakalokong sabi niya. “You’re so wet, Julie.” He
said at saka na niya hinalikan ang mga labi ng dalaga. Nibbling her bottom lip. Elmo then kissed every
inch of her body down to her pussy. Inamoy niya ito and said, “Your pussy, Julie. Uhhhh… I like it, no I
love it!” And licked it.

“Uhhhh…Elmooooo…” Julie moaned. He licked her hard while his hand’s playing with her nipples. Hindi
pa nakuntento si Elmo kaya he inserted his finger inside her.

Mabaliw-baliw na si Julie sa sensation na nafifeel niya. Sinabunutan niya si Elmo dahil sa sarap ng
ginagawa nito sa kanya.

“Moeeee, do it faster pleeeaseeee.. C’moooonnn!” As she keep on pushing Elmo’s head on her pussy.
“Hindi ko na kaya, Julie. I wanna go inside you.” He said na hingal na hingal pa.Tango na lang ang tanging
nasagot ni Julie.

“Me too Moe, I wanna feel you inside meeee. Uuuuuhhhh!” Julie’s getting really insane with the
sensation she’s feeling at the moment.

So Elmo took his boxers off, Julie was shocked when she saw how big his ego is. “Moe, that is too big.
Kaya ko ba ‘yan baby?” Julie asked naughtily.

“Oo naman baby. I’ll be gentle and I will love you down.” Elmo with his sexy voice on.

He positioned himself at tinutok na ito sa lagusan ni Julie. Dahan-dahan niyang pinasok iyon habang
hinahalikan si Julie.

“Ahhhhh… Elmooooooo…Ang lakiii sobraaaa! Punong-puno akoooo! Elmoooo uuuuhhhh!”

“Julie ang sikip mooo… Uhhhhhh..” he said.

“It feels so goooood inside youuuu Juliiiieeeee.”

And he kissed her again. Their tongues dancing together. Bumaba muli ang halik ni Elmo sa dibdib niya.
Sinabunutan siya ni Julie at saka pa siya sinubsob lalo sa dibdib niya.

“Shit, Moe. Uhhhhhh… Sige paaaaaaaaaa…”

“Baby, I’m cooommmiiinnnggg…”

“Moeeeeeee…” Elmo thrusts became faster and faster and faster.

“Elmoooooooo-ooooohhhh!”

“Julie, sabay tayo pleaseeee…”

“Oo baby, I’m almost thereeee. I’m coooommmiiinggg toooo!”

Dahil sa sinabi ni Julie mas lalo pang binilisan ni Elmo. Maya-maya pa’y nanginig na ang mga katawan
nila and Elmo felt that his manhood was squeezed by Julie’s wall. At pagkatapos nito napabagsak na lang
si Elmo sa tabi ni Julie. Niyakap niya ang dalaga at hinalikan ang buhok nito at saka pa sinabing,
“Goodnight, baby…”

Nagising si Elmo dahil sa sinag ng araw na tumatama sa mata niya. Pagdilat niya ay nakita niya na
nakayakap siya kay Julie na nakatalikod naman sa kanya.

Dahan-dahan niyang inalis ang braso niya and inangat ang comforter. Nagulat siya nang may makitang
bloodstain sa bedsheet ni Julie. Nanlaki ang mga mata niya and napasabi na lang ng…

“SHIT!”
CHAPTER 7

Hindi siya makapaniwala sa nakita at matagal na nakatitig sa natutulog pa ring dalaga. He shook his head
at naisipan na lang niyang magbihis. Dahan-dahan siyang lumabas ng unit ng dalaga, trying his best not
to wake her up. Paglabas ng condo ng dalaga ay laking gulat niya nang makita si Lauren na natutulog sa
hallway at may hawak pang bote ng alak.

“Tsss. What is she doing here?” was all he said. He knelt down para gisingin ang dalaga. “Lo… Lo wake
up.”

“Hmm…”

“Lo, wake up. Ano ba.” Sabi ni at tinapik pa ito.

“Natutulog eh…”

“Yeah. You’re sleeping, sa hallway ng condo ko.” He replied. Nagmulat naman ng mata ang dalaga and
looked at him.

“I’ve been knocking all night pero hindi mo naman ako pinagbuksan ng pinto…” sabi nito. Napaisip
naman si Elmo kung anong irarason niya rito.

“Uhm… Kauuwi ko lang eh. Nakitulog ako sa condo ni Kris.” He reasoned out. “Teka. What are you doing
here?” he asked. Lo started crying at saka ito yumakap sa kanya.

“Moe… Moe, please don’t leave me. Moe, tayo pa rin naman diba?” she asked. Elmo tried to remove her
arms around his body at saka niya ito tinignan.

“Lo…”

“Moe, I want you back. Let’s give this another chance. Please?” she said.

“Lo, lasing ka eh. Can we talk some other time? Inaantok pa ko. Just please… Leave.”

“Elmo… wag mo namang gawin sa akin ‘to. Aaminin ko, naunahan ako ng galit kaya I said those things to
you. Just please… Bumalik ka na sa akin…”

“I’m sorry, Lo. We both know na kailangan natin ‘to. Let’s just give each other some time and space.
Kung tayo, talaga. Magkakabalikan tayo.” And with that he entered his unit and closed the door.

*****
Nagising si Julie sa ingay ng nag-aalarm na phone. She slowly opened her eyes at saka hinanap ang
tumutunog na gadget. Tumayo siya pero biglang napahiga ulit dahil sa sakit ng katawan niya.

“Ouuuuch…” she said habang kinakapa ang cellphone na patuloy lang sa pag-aalarm. “Tsss… Bakit ba
nag-aalarm eh it’s a Sunday.” She said. Pagkakita niya ay nagtaka siya dahil hindi kanya ang cellphone na
nag-aalarm. “Kanino naman ‘to?” pagtataka niya. As if on cue ay may nagmessage dito:

Mom

Moe, wru? Ikaw na lang ang wala dito sa resto…

“Moe? Kay Magalona ‘to?” tanong niya sa sarili. Laking gulat niya nang mapansing wala pala siyang suot
na damit. At mas ikinagulat niya dahil may bloodstain sa kama niya. “Shit!”

*****

“Shit. What am I gonna do? Gago ka, Elmo. Gago ka. Anong ginawa mo?” inis na sabi niya sa sarili.
Kanina pa siya palakad-lakad sa unit niya at patuloy na nag-iisip. “Gago ka talaga. Anong ginawa mo?!”

*****

“Shit, Julie. What have you done? Dahil sa kalasingan mo, kung anu-ano na nagagawa mo.” Sabi niya sa
sarili habang naliligo. Pilit na inaalala ang mga pangyayari the night before. “Shit talaga… Wala akong
matandaan. Urrggghh! Nakakainis ka Julie Anne!”

*****

“How are you gonna explain that to her? Ha?” he said to himself. “Paano mo pa siya haharapin?
Nakalimutan mo na bang mortal na kaaway mo siya dito sa building?!”

*****

“Paano na ‘to? Paano kapag nagkasalubong kami? Shit ka talaga, Julie!”

*****

“Asan ba yung phone ko? Birthday pa naman ni grandma ngayon. Tsk.” Nanlaki ang mata niya nang
marealize kung saan niya maaaring maiwan ang phone niya. “Shoot.”

*****

“Paano ko ba ibibigay ‘to? Ay jusko!!!” sabi ni Julie habang hawak ang phone. Naisipan niya na ilalagay
na lang niya sa may doorstep ni Elmo ang telepono nito at saka na papasok ulit sa condo niya. “Tama.
Yun na lang. Iwas awkwardness.” She said. Binuksan na niya ang pintuan niya at nagulat nang saktong
nagbukas din ng pinto si Elmo. Nagkatitigan muna sila ng matagal. Elmo looked at her na para bang may
gusto itong sabihin pero nagdadalawang-isip.
“Uhm…” Elmo started.

“Y-yung phone mo. Naiwan mo sa condo ko…” she said at saka na inabot kay Elmo ang cellphone niya.

“Thanks… Uhm, Julie… About last night…”

“Wag na nating pag-usapan, Elmo. Let’s just… Let’s just forget about it.” She said at saka na sinara ang
pinto niya.

*****

“Kuya, mamu’s been waiting for you since kanina pa. Bakit late ka nanaman?” his youngest sister asked.

“Ha? Uhm… I woke up late eh.” Sagot niya. He tried to act normal. Laking pasalamat niya dahil wala pa si
Frank dahil paniguradong magtatanong iyon sa kanya.

“Kuyaaaa!!” he heard Clara said. Lumingon siya at nakita ang kuya nila na may dalang isang box ng cake
at saka pa humalik sa kapatid.

“Happy Birthday, mamu!” bati nito sa lola nila.

“Thank you, hijo.” Pagkaupo ni Frank sa tapat niya ay nginitian siya nito.

“Uy, bro! Where were you last night? Nagulat kaming lahat nang mawala ka eh.” Tanong nito.

“Ha? Uhm… Ano kasi… I got tired already kaya umuwi na lang ako. Bigla kasing sumakit ulo ko eh. Oo
yun nga, sumakit yung ulo ko.” Pag-aalibi niya. Tumango na lang ang kuya niya at nagpatuloy na sila sa
pagkain.

*****

“Julietaaaaaaaa!” excited na sabi ni Sef nang buksan ni Julie ang pintuan niya.

“Hi, dear!” masayang bati rin ni Maqui. Bumeso naman si Julie sa kanila at saka sila pinapasok.

“Hay grabe. Paborlogs nga, girl. May hangover pa rin akets dahil sa party.” Sabi ni Sef at dire-diretsong
naglakad papunta sa kwarto niya. Humiga naman ito ng padapa at niyakap ang unan ni Julie.

“EWWW! BAKIT MAY BLOODSTAIN DITEY, JULIETA?! OH MY GEE KA. DI NA BA USO NAPKIN SAYO!!
ALAM KO FEELING GIRLASH AKO PERO GIRL NAMAN! WALA PA RIN AKONG MATRIS HA! SO MEJ MAHIYA
KA KAHIT SLIGHT LANG!!”

“Ha? Eh sa kalasingan ko kagabi, nakalimutan kong magkakaron na pala ako. Kaya ayan. Teka alis ka
muna, I’ll go change the sheets.” Sabi niya.

“Yes please. Ayokong bumorlogs sa dugo okay?”

“Onga pala, Jules. Hindi ka na bumalik sa table kagabi. Sabi mo kukuha ka lang ng tubig pero you never
came back. San ka nagpunta?” Maqui asked curiously. Nanlaki naman ang mata ni Julie habang
nagpapalit siya ng bedsheet niya at napaisip kung anong idadahilan sa bestfriend.

“Ha? Ah… Eh… Umuwi na ako. Bigla kasing sumakit ulo ko. Di na ko nakapagpaalam. Hehe.” She
answered.

“Ah. Okay… Nakakapagtaka lang that you and Moe were both missing kagabi.”

“Ha? B-baka naman umuwi rin siya or may nakilalang girl kaya ayun. Haha. Pero feeling ko di siya umuwi
eh. Walang malakas na music dito kaninang umaga.”

“Baka nga…” Maqui said. They bonded the whole day at napansin ni Maqui na may kakaiba sa kilos ni
Julie. It’s as if she’s hiding something pero baka hindi siya magsalita. Inisip lang niya na baka dahil first
day ng monthly period nito kaya ito ganun kumilos.

CHAPTER 8

Ilang araw na rin ang lumipas mula nang mangyari ang insidente. Ilang araw na ring nag-iiwasan ang
dalawa sa tuwing nagkakasama ang barkada ni Elmo at ang mga kaibigan ni Julie. It’s either one of them
won’t join their get together or pareho silang MIA. Kapag naman nasasaktong parehas silang pumunta
ay hindi sila nagpapansinan.

“Weird. Sobrang weird talaga.” Sef said habang nakatingin sa kawalan. Nasa isang resto sila nun at
kumakain. Nagtinginan naman ang magkakaibigan sa kanya.

“What?” si Derrick ang nagtanong.

“Di ba kayo nawiweirduhan, guys? Bakit hindi nag-aaway ang dalawang mortal kombats diyan?” Sef said
at saka pa nginuso si Julie at si Elmo. “Diba?”

“Hahaha. Oo nga no?” pagsang-ayon ni Kris.

“What happened to you, people? Hindi sanay ang beauty ko na hindi kayo nag-aaway. What’s wrong
with the world?!”

“Para ka talagang shunga Sef. Chuchoosy ka pa ba? Atleast nga okay na sila eh.” Si Derrick ulit.

“Okay nga ba?” Maqui asked at tsaka siya tumingin kay Julie ng malaman. Umiwas naman ng tingin si
Julie at nagpatuloy sa pagkain.
“Pero di talaga ako makapaniwala sayo, bro eh.” Steven said.

“Ha?” pagtataka ni Elmo.

“Bakit bigla kang nawala nung party?”

“Ay oo nga, bro! Ang dami pa namang chix nun. Sayang!” dagdag ni Kris.

“Eww. Chix nanaman ang pinag-uusapan.” Kumento ni Sef.

“Psh. I went home early. Sumakit ulo ko nun eh.” Sagot ni Elmo.

“Akala ko ba hindi ka umuwi?” singit ni Maqui.

“Ha?”

“Julie said mukhang di ka daw umuwi kasi walang malakas na music nung umaga.” She continued.

“Ah. Eh kasi lasing ako. Makakapagingay pa ba ako nun?” Pagrarason nito at saka pa tumingin kay Julie.

“Eh ikaw, Jules? Bakit di ka na bumalik nun?” tanong ni Frank.

“Sumama pakiramdam ko eh.” Tanging sagot ni Julie. Tinignan naman siya nina Maqui at Sef na parang
nagtataka.

*****

“Shit!” iritang sabi niya. “Bakit naman ngayon pa?” she added. Sinipa niya ang gulong ng kotse niya at
saka pa napasandal dito. “Buset.”

“Anyare girl?” pagtataka ni Sef pagkalapit niya kay Julie. Tinignan naman siya ng dalaga at saka tinuro
ang flat tire nito. “Ay. Flat tops ang peg ng gulong.”

“Pano ko uuwi? Out of way ka.”

“And as if namang ihahatid kita? Antokyo Japan na ko no!”

“Yun nga eh. Nakakahiya sa kabaklaan mo.”

“Good. Pero dahil mabait ako, hintayin natin sila Marie. Malay mo isabay ka diba, friend?”

“Sana…” as if on cue ay lumapit na sina Maqui at Frank sa kanila kasunod sina Alden, Derrick, Kris at
Steven.

“Anyare, dear?” tanong ni Maqui.

“Edi flatopia ang tire ni girlash.” Sef explained at saka pa tinuro ang gulong ng kotse ni Julie.
“Ooooh. Pano yan?” tanong ni Steven.

“I’ll just ride a cab.”

“No. Pwede naman kitang ihatid eh.” Alden offered. Tinignan naman siya ng mga kaibigan.

“Out of way ka, bro.”

“Hindi. Okay lang. Atleast she won’t be commuting.” He answered.

“Okay lang. Sanay naman ako magcommute eh.” Sabi niya.

“Sanayeching na siya, dimples. Don’t cha worry.” Singit ni Sef

“Macho kaya itey. Diba girlfriend?” at saka pa umakbay kay Julie.

“Una na ko, guys.” Si Elmo. Nabuhayan naman ng loob sina Maqui at Sef.

“Ay! Perfect! Sabay ka na lang kaya kay mortal kombat?” suggest ni Sef.

“Ha? W-wag na.”

“Anong wag na? Okay nga yun eh. You live in the same building naman eh.” Si Maqui.

“Oo nga. Bro, sabay mo na si Julie. Kami na bahala magtawag ng hahatak dito sa car niya.” Sabi ni Frank.
Wala naman ng nagawa si Elmo kaya tumango na lang siya.

*****

“Know what? I smell something fishy between your brother and my bestfriend…” Maqui started. Nasa
kotse sila nun ni Frank and ihahatid na siya ni Frank sa bahay nila.

“Ha? What do you mean?” her boyfriend asked.

“Kasi, the night when Julie went home without saying goodbye diba yun din yung night na nawala bigla
si Moe?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Tapos the next day, nagpunta kami ni Sef sa condo ni Julie to spend the day there. Humiga si Sef sa
kama niya and may nakita siya don.”

“Tapos? Ano yung nakita niya?”

“Basta. Dun pa lang nagtaka na ko eh. Then iba yung sagot niya sayo dun sa sagot niya sa akin when I
asked her why she went home early.”
“Really?”

“Really. Basta ang weird lang. But I don’t want to conclude just yet. Mag-oobserve muna ako.”

*****

It was the longest one hour drive of his life. Sobrang awkward ng feeling nila dahil nga sa mga nangyari.

“Uhm… Okay lang ba kung magpatugtog tayo?” he asked her. Tumango lang si Julie kaya he turned his
radio on. Pero wala pa ring sense ang pagpapatugtog niya dahil nababalutan pa rin ng awkwardness ang
atmosphere.

Let Me Love You Down playing…

Nagkatinginan naman ang dalawa nang marinig ang kanta. Napaisip naman si Elmo kung dapat pa ba
niyang i-open yung nangyari sa kanila nung gabing iyon. He felt responsible for taking advantage of her
dahil lang sa kalasingan ng dalaga. Pero a part of him doesn’t want to ask her dahil baka hindi niya
magustuhan ang sasabihin nito. He looked down for a while at saka nagbuntong-hininga.

“Julie… About the other night…”

CHAPTER 9

The two arrived at their condo’s parking lot. Wala pa ring imik si Julie mula nung nagsalita si Elmo sa
loob ng kotse. Di rin siya nagreact sa sinabi nito. Sobrang awkward na nilang dalawa. Sa loob ng elevator
wala kang maririnig kundi ang nakakabinging katahimikan.

As they were about to go to their own units, Elmo said…

“Julie, uhmmmm.”

“Ano ba, Elmo! Paulit ulit tayo dito! Sinabi ko na ngang wag ng pag-usapan eh! Ang kulit mo naman oh!
Nakakainis ka na ha!” Galit na sabi ni Julie at binagsak pa ang pagsarado ng pinto.

Nagulat rito si Elmo, at ang tanging lumabas na lang sa kanyang bibig ay…

“Sorry.”

*****

Nakahiga si Elmo at iniisip pa rin ang nangyari kanina ng biglang nagtext si Lauren sa kanya.

LO: Hi. Where are you?

ELMO: Condo. Why?

LO: Okay.

Matipid na reply ni Lauren sa kanya.

After an hour, nagulat na lang si Elmo ng biglang may kumatok sa pinto ng unit niya. Di niya kasi
namalayan na nakatulog pala siya kakaisip.

“And who the hell is that?” Inis na sabi nito.

He was shocked when he saw that it was Lauren pala.

“What are you doing here?” He asked.

“I really want us to talk. About us. Please?”

“Hay. May magagawa pa ba ko eh andito ka na eh.” Napipilitang sagot ni Elmo.

“Please naman Elmo. Let’s work this thing out naman na oh. You know how much I love you. And I know
that you love me too. Sorry if I said those words to you. It’s just that di ko na talaga kaya yung
nangyayari between us. I hope you’ve realized all that I’ve said.”

“Yeah Lo, I admit na I am immature, insensitive and stuff. Pero, I can’t promise you na kaya kong
magbago ng ganon-ganon lang. Of course I do love you, pero do you think it would be enough?” Elmo
said very calmly.

“I understand Moe, kakayanin ko everything for our relationship. I can’t really go on without you eh.”
Then tears started to fall onto Lauren’s eyes.

Yeah, Elmo loves Lauren, but things are getting worst. But what can he do? Kahit bad boy siya, ayaw
niyang nakakasakit siya ng babae.

“Hey, stop crying na please? Okay, okay. Bati na tayo. So please stop crying hon.” Pagsuyo nito kay Lo.

“Really? Thank you so much hon! I love you!” then after that she kissed Elmo.

Their kiss is getting intense, Lauren pushed Elmo to his bed. She aggressively took advantage of Elmo,
nadadala si Elmo sa ginagawa sa kanya ni Lo, siyempre lalaki lang siya. He kissed her back. Lo took off his
shirt, and giving him kisses into his neck, and chest. Elmo is just caressing her back while Lo’s hand is
getting into his manhood. Elmo let out a soft moan.

“Juliiiiieee..uhhh..”
Luckily, Lauren didn’t hear that. Elmo is totally naked, Lauren was on top of him and kissing him again,
down to his neck, to his chest, down to his belly button and when she was about to kiss his manhood,
Elmo moaned out loud…

“Juliiiieeee.. ooooohhhh.. Baby, please suck itttt.” Lauren heard that so she stopped eventually.

“Who the hell is Julie? Ha Elmo?! WHO IS SHE?!” Sobrang galit na tanong ni Lauren sa kanya.

Nagulat din si Elmo sa sarili niya. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nga ba niya nasabi ang pangalan ni Julie all
of a sudden.

“We were just making love here then maririnig ko na lang bigla from you a girl’s name! Oh my gosh
Moe! Ano may babae ka ha?! Kaya ba talagang di na tayo naging okay ha?! Sumagot ka Moe please!”

“Lo, I-I’m so-sorry.” That was all that Elmo can say to her at the moment.

She picked up her things, and then she went out of his condo unit, crying.

*****

Julie is in her favorite coffee shop and about to order her favorite frappe, but she heard someone
sobbing, the girl on her back. She looked at her and asked her,

“Uhm, hi miss. Are you okay?” The girl looked at her, and Julie was shocked when she saw that it was
that girl again. “Oh it’s you, hi Lauren.”

“What happened to you? Di ka pa rin okay?” Julie asked Lauren habang nakaupo sila sa labas ng coffee
shop. Nirequest ni Lauren ito sa kanya, kasi daw she’ll smoke.

“Actually, a while ago, everything was so fine. Kaya lang something came up. Nagkabalikan na kami,
kaya lang while we were uhm. Nakakahiya to say this, while we were making love, he mentioned a name
of a girl. Syempre nagulat ako with that.” Lauren told her while she smokes. “Sorry if kailangan ko
magsmoke in front of you. Sobrang stressed na kasi ako with him. I wanna vent out lang.” She
continued.

“No, it’s okay. Pero really he said that, grabe naman. He didn’t say sorry to you or even stopped you
from leaving him?” Julie curiously asked.

“He said sorry, pero kahit na. I guess this is it. This is the end of our so-called relationship.” Lauren’s
voice is now breaking and she’s about to cry.

Julie hugged her. “Don’t worry magiging okay din kayo. Baka di pala talaga right time na maging okay
kayo. Darating din kayo with that. Stop crying na.” as she pats her back.

“Hey, thank you. By the way, I don’t know your name yet.”

“Ah yes yeah. You can call me, Japs.” She smiled sweetly.
*****

“Why do I have to do that?! Urghhhh! Nakakainis! Bakit ba kasi bigla ko na lang sinabi yung name ni
Julie?! Dahil ba nakokonsensya talaga ko sa nangyari samin ha? Ano ba problema mo, Elmo?!” Sobrang
inis na si Elmo sa sarili niya sa mga nangyayari. Di niya na talaga alam kung ano pa gagawin niya.

“Kailangan ko na talaga kausapin si Julie. Mababaliw na ko dito!”

So he went to Julie’s place and knocked. But no one answered him.

“Maybe she’s not here.” Sabi nito sa sarili niya.

****

Days passed, everytime na naiisipang kausapin ni Elmo si Julie, di niya ito naaabutan, even sa school
wala siya, kahit sa mga hang out nilang magkakabarkada nagkakasalisi sila at pag kinakatok naman niya
ito sa unit niya, walang tao madalas. He wanted to give up dahil ayaw naman niyang madagdagan pa ang
inis sa kanya ni Julie. Pero sadyang nilalamon siya ng konsensiya niya.

Until one day, naisipan ni Elmo na lumabas with his dog, Sonic. Exactly when he opened his door, Julie
was about to go inside her unit. He called her attention.

“Hi Julie.” And then he smiled at her.

“Oh, hi Elmo.” Julie smiled.

“Hmm, are you busy? Do you have a minute?”

“Hindi naman Elmo.”

“Can we talk? Actually, I really wanted to talk to you and I’ve tried my best to reach out to you. Kaya
lang parang ayaw ni manong destiny eh.” He said while rubbing his neck.

“Hmm, Elmo, ano kasi.”

“Oh magkausap ang mortal kombats? Anyare? Medyo serious ang usapan ditey.” Biglang dating ni Sef at
kasama pa niya si Maqui.

“Uy, Moe. Where are you going? And what are you guys talking about?” she asked curiously.

“Ah, w-wala. Ano tinatanong ko si Julie kung nasaan si Frank.” Palusot ni Elmo.

“Oh bro, why are you looking for me? What’s wrong?” Frank asked.

“Ah, w-wala lang. Papasama sana ako sayo ilabas si Sonic. Pero mukhang busy ka. So ako na lang.”
“If you want, you can join us dito sa unit ni Julie, kung okay lang sa kanya.” Frank looked at Julie as if he’s
waiting for her answer.

“Ahh. A-ano, sige lang. okay lang.”

“Eh ayun naman pala eh. Tara gumorabambam na tayiz sa loob dahil super Tommy Hilfiger na ang
beauty ko.” Nagmamadaling pumasok si Sef, kasunod sila Maqui at Frank at naiwan sa labas ang dalawa.

“Ay? Anong drama ninyong dalawa over there? Pasok pasok din pag may chance, okay?” Paninita ni Sef
sa dalawa. “Feel at home, Julieta. Wag kang mahiya.” Dagdag pa nito at sinamahan pa ng nakakaasar na
ngiti.

*****

“Moe, I forgot to tell you na we’re going to have a graduation party at our house next week and that’s
why we are here. Party na naming dalawa ni Maqui yon. Family and friends lang yung invited.” Frank
explained to Elmo, kaya lang si Elmo mukhang busy asikasuhin si Julie. He even got her plate to get some
pizza and pasta and put some juice on her glass.

Frank called his attention again, “Moe, narinig mo ba yung sinabi ko?”

“A-ah oo Frank.” At nagulat siya dahil nakatingin pala sila sa kanya, at biglang abot kay Julie ng plato and
baso nito.

Sila Maqui at Sef naman ay walang ginawa kundi magbulungan at magsikuhan dahil sa nakikita nila.

“Ano ba naman ‘tong si Elmo, kung ano anong ginagawa. For sure nagtataka na sila Maqui sa kinikilos
niya. Nakakainis naman oh. Elmo, stop it.” Sabi ni Julie sa sarili.

“Something’s wrong talaga. I can see it in Julie’s action. Hay nako, Julieta lagot ka sakin! You have some
explaining to do!” Maqui is really getting pissed off.

CHAPTER 10

“Sef…”Maqui said absent-mindedly. Nasa coffee shop silang dalawa nun at naisipan nilang tumambay.

“Yes, Frencheska?” tanong nito habang umiinom.

“Wala ka bang napapansin kay Julie?” pagtataka niya at saka tumingin ng diretso kay Sef.

“Hm…”
“She’s acting really weird bakla. Pansin mo ba?”

“Sortakindalikenaparangmedyomaypagka. Diba nag-iba yung moves niya? Pero girlash, hindi lang si
Julieta ha. Si Elmokong din.”

“Oo! Lalo na nung last time na nasa condo pa tayo. He seems very maasikaso. Tas hindi siya nakikinig sa
pagpaplano natin for the party. Tapos puro na lang si Julie ang kausap, si Julie ang pinapansin.”

“Anyare? Mag-eend of the world na ba? Hindi pa naman gumaganda si Chocoleit. Vaketch
magugunaweching ever na si Mudrabels Earth?!”

“Bakla, maghunos-dili ka nga. Hindi ako kagaya ni Julie na babaeng bakla ha.”

“Pero ang weirdrabels diba?”

“Yeah. Sobrang weird. Hindi kaya…” napaisip silang dalawa sa kung anong pwedeng dahilan bakit nag-
iba ang ihip ng hangin sa dalawang kaibigan pero ayaw rin nilang magconclude.

“Hay nako, Marie. Tawagan mo na lang si Julieta nang ma-corner yang merlat na yan! Goooooo!”

“Makautos ka talaga bakla. Heto na.” she said while dialling her bestfriend’s number. “Di din ako
mapakali eh. Bestfriend’s instinct, bakla!”dagdag niya pa habang hinihintay sagutin ni Julie ang call niya.

“Hello?”

“Julieta, coffeshop. Now.” Sigaw ni Sef

“Now?As in now?”

“Hindi, atembang. Bukas! Jusko, Marie! Ang blood pressure ko! Nagtataas ng bongga! Kasing high na ng
Burj Khalifa!” iritang sabi nito.“Baba na dito. Madali ka!!” sigaw nito.

****

Nagmadali naman siyang bumaba sa ground floor ng condo building nila at saka nagpunta sa coffee shop
sa tapat nito.Nakita niyang nakatingin lang sa kanya ang dalawang kaibigan na para bang napakalaki ng
kasalanan niya.

“What?” she asked as she sat down on the vacant chair.

“You’ve got some explaining to do, young lady.” Maqui said.

“Ha?” pagtataka niya.

“Bakit nagbago kilos mo? Bakit MIA ka lagi? Bakit ang ganda ko?” sunud-sunod na tanong ni Sef sa
kanya.
“MIA? Kailan? Nagbago kilos?” she asked saka pa tinignan ang bestfriends niya.

“Marie, ikaw kumausap diyan. Naiimbyerna ako!” he said, frustrated.

“Julie, dear. Explain.”

“What will I explain, Maqui?” Pagtatakang tanong ni Julie.

“Yan. Yang kinikilos mong ‘yan. What’s happening? Dear naman, hindi ka ganyan before. I mean, before
mangyari yung party.” Nanlaki ang mata ni Julie at saka na lang siya tumingin sa malayo. “You can tell us
naman eh. We’re bestfriends right?”

“Maq…” naiyak na lang si Julie dahil hindi niya talaga alam kung dapat ba niyang sabihin ito o kikimkimin
na lang. Nahihirapan siya dahil ayaw niyang magbago ang mga kaibigan niya towards her. “Maq… Ano
kasi eh…” she took a deep breath at saka tumingin sa dalawang bestfriends niya. “Ang hirap kasi eh…”
naiiyak nasabi niya.

“Come on, dear. You can tell us…” Maqui said as she sat next to her and rubs her back.

“Maqui ang hirap kasi…”

“Is it about Elmo?” napatingin na lang si Julie sa kanila at saka na lang umiyak.

*****

“Babe, you know what parang ang weird ni Moe lately.” Frank said while driving. He’s with Maqui and
they are on their way to Promenade. Ininvite kasi nila ang barkada para mag-lunch out and tell them
their plans for their grad party.

“Why? What happened to him?”

“Madalas na siya sa bahay matulog. Umuuwi ng maaga plus nagrereview na siya ngayon. And laging
good mood.” Nagtatakang kwento ni Frank.

“Baliktad naman sila ni Julie. Siya naman parang laging wala sa sarili. And you know what, we talked to
her a day ago sa coffee shop. She wants to confess something. The bad thing is, connected sa kapatid
mo. Something happened, but she doesn’t want to talk about it. Di pa raw siya ready to tell everything.”
Todo kwento ni Maqui.

“I think you need to talk to your brother and ask him.” She continues.

*****

Everyone’s at the resto already, and may isang taong late… Si Elmo.

“As usual late nanaman siya.” Kris said.

“Hindi naman siya natulog sa bahay kagabi, hmm Julie di mo ba siya nakita sa building ng condo niyo?”
Frank looking at Julie.

“A-ah, hindi eh.”

“Oh he’s here na pala.” Steven said.

“Uhm, hi. Sorry late ako. Nalate kasi ako ng gising, may tinapos pa kasi akong plate eh. Sorry ha.” Elmo
explains while looking at Julie.

“Hoy Mokong, bakit kayJulieta ka nakatingin habang nag-eexplain. Siya lang ba tao ditey? Ikaw Elmo ha,
nakakahalata na akiz sa mga ganyang damoves. Ay gravity ka na ha!” Pang-aasar ni Sef kay Elmo.

“Oh pare, upo ka muna rito. Oh mas gusto mo umupo sa tabi ni Julie.” At lalo pa siyang inasar ni Kris sa
nangyari.

“Dude, okay ka lang ba? Ano ka ba. Wag kang papatalo dyan kay Elmo. Haha!” At eto naming si Derrick,
si Alden ang nakitang pagtripan.

“Oo naman.Tsaka ano bang pinagsasasabi mo dyan ha, Rick?” Alden being defensive.

“Ay Mr. Dimples, bet mo si Julieta? Teka Elmo, ikaw rin ba bet mo si Julieta kaya di mo na siya inaasar
ha?” Si Sef talaga ayaw magpaawat sa pang-aasar. Siniko tuloy siya ni Julie para lang magtigil. Hiyang-
hiya na si Julie. Kaya naman to the rescue agad si Maqui sa kanyang bestfriend.

“Hep! Hep! Stop it guys. We’re here to talk about our upcoming grad party.” Maqui said.

“It’ll be this weekend na. The venue will be at the Magalona’s house. Nag-offer si Frank na don na lang.
Family and close friends lang yung invited. So pupunta kayo ha!” She added.

*****

The graduation party day came. Everyone’s having fun. Magkakasama sa iisang table sila Kris, Steven,
Derrick, Alden, Maqui, Frank, Sef, Julie and Elmo. Medyo napaparami yung pag-inom ni Julie, pero si
Elmo, panay ang sulyap niya sa dalaga, binabantayan lang. Oo, umiinom siya pero parang mas nalalasing
pa siya sa pagtitig dito. Julie noticed that. Naiilang siya, yes. Pero parang ayaw siya tantanan ni
Magalona eh. Hanggang sa naramdaman niyang gusto na niyang masuka. Agad-agad siyang tumayo na
siyang kinagulat naman ng lahat.

“Oh san punta ang mujer na yon?” Sef asked.

“Susundan ko lang si Julie. Para kasing nasusuka na siya.” Pagmamadaling sabi ni Elmo sa kanila.

“O-oh. SuperElmo on the rescue. Bagal mo kasi Richard eh! Haha.” Derrick bullying Alden.

Suddenly a girl came to them, “Hey, Steven. Have you seen Elmo? Kanina ko pa kasi siya hinahanap eh.”
The girl asked.
“Oh hi Lo. Kanina andito siya kaso may inasikaso eh. Btw, friends nga pala namin, sila Maqui and Sef.
Guys, si Lauren pala.” Steven said.

“Hi everyone. Hmm, excuse me, I saw Elmo somewhere over there, puntahan ko muna ha. Nice meeting
you two.” She smiled and left.

“Sinetch naman yon, singkit?”Sef asked.

“Ah. That’s Elmo’s girlfriend.” He answered.

“Ah really? May gf pala siya.” Medyo nagtatakang tanong ni Maqui sa kanila.

“Yes, babe. Bestfriends sila nila Maxx and Saab.”

*****

Lauren saw Elmo na may akay-akay na girl. Kaya naman agad-agad niyang sinundan ito kaya lang, Maxx
suddenly blocked her way.

“Hi besh. OMG it’s been a while ha! Ang tagal mong di nagpakita. What happened to you? I missed you!”
Maxx hugged her.

“Sorry besh, busy lang ako.”

“Tara, let’s get some drinks.” And Maxx pulled her to the mobile bar.

*****

Inalalayan ni Elmo si Julie papunta sa kwarto niya.

“Moe, nasusuka na talaga ko.” Pagrereklamo ni Julie sa kanya. Dinala siya ni Elmo sa cr ng room niya.
And she vomitted.

*****

“Hi Manang, nakita niyo pa ba si Moe?” Lauren asked.

“Ay oo iha, umakyat sa kwarto niya.” Manang answered.

“Ah sige po manang, akyat na lang po ako. Salamat po.” She said. At dumiretso na nga si Lauren sa
kwarto ni Elmo. May sasabihin pa sana si Manang sa kanya pero di na niya ito narinig.

“Kaso may kasama siyang babae eh.” Manang added.

*****

Knock, knock, knock!

“Wait lang Julie ha, may kumakatok kasi eh. Dito ka lang ha. Antayin mo ko dito.” Elmo walked towards
the door and opened it.

“Oh Lo, what are you doing here?” tanong niya.

“Are you avoiding me? And I guess wala kang balak mag-explain for what happened last time?” Inis na
sabi ni Lauren sa kanya.

“Ano pa bang kailangan nating pag-usapan, Lo? Diba you left me then di mo man lang ako inantay na
mag-explain.” Pasigaw na sabi ni Moe sa kanya.

“Sino ba kasi siya?!”

“It’s none of your business! Tapos na tayo diba?! Umalis ka na!” Galit na galit na sabi ni Magalona at
sabay pasok sa kwarto nito.

*****

May sasabihin pa sana si Lauren, kaso binagsakan na siya ng pintuan ni Elmo. Kaya umalis na lang siya at
umuwi.

CHAPTER 11

“Moe, sino yung kumatok?” Julie sounds so tipsy still.

“Ah wala yun Julie. Ano okay ka na ba? You can stay here for a while. Or ligo ka muna kaya?” Elmo
offered.

“Woooh! Ikaw talaga, Moe. Para-paraan ha! Gusto mo siguro ako makasabay maligo no? Yieeee!”
Panunukso niya kay Elmo.

“Ha? Paano mo nalaman? Haha! Joke lang. Alam mo Julie, lasing ka na eh. Sige na, shower ka muna.”
Natatawang sabi niya.

“Teka lang, Moe. Let’s talk about yung gusto mong pag-usapan.”

“Are you sure? Di ka na hot?”

“Di ba hot naman ako for you?” Julie teased Elmo.

At natawa na lang si Elmo sa sinabi nito.

“Aaa-aano kasi Julie. Sorry I was really drunk that night.”

“Stutter much, Moe? Ako rin naman eh.”

“And Julie the truth is that, I really enjoyed it!” And he smirked.

“Alam mo pareho tayo, Moe. Even though…” Julie bit her lips.

“Even though, ako yung nakauna sayo?” Nahihiyang tanong ni Elmo.

“Uhmm. Yes.” Mahinang sagot ng dalaga.

“Julie, I’m sorry talaga, di ko sinasadya….” At di pinatapos ni Julie si Elmo magsalita.

“You know what Moe, ang cute mo. Ang gwapo mo mag-explain.“ At biglang lumapit si Julie kay Elmo, at
bigla niya itong hinalikan.

Elmo was shocked when Julie did that, pero kahit lasang alak ang laway ni Julie, he kissed her back. He
pushed Julie to the sink, and their kiss is getting more intense. Elmo is getting drunk with Julie’s kiss, and
got shocked when Julie touched his manhood.

“Baby, hard ka na agad? I like that.” she whispered. And she started nibbling his ears then kissed him
again. Elmo loves playing his tongue with Julie’s kaya lalo namang nahahayok ang mga ito. Elmo broke
their kiss.

“Baby, let’s take a shower.” Yaya nito kay Julie. Binaba niya si Julie sa sink at naghalikan silang muli while
taking off their clothes. They are totally naked and still kissing under the shower. Elmo’s hands caressing
Julie’s body, as she let out soft moans. Elmo got turned on kaya lalo niyang ginalingan ang paghalik sa
katawan ni Julie. He cupped her left bosom, while sucking her right.

“Uhhhh. Baaaabyyyyy. Uhhhhhhh.” Julie moaned.

While Elmo is busy with Julie’s two beautiful bosoms, Julie’s hand is busy stroking his manhood.

“Elmooo-ooohhh, baby bakit ang gifted mo? Ang hirap tanggihan nito eh.”

“Ooooh Julieeee, oooohhhhh. You’re getting better-rrrrr…”

Napasandal si Elmo sa wall, dahil he’s getting weak with what Julie is doing with his manhood. Di naman
nagpatalo si Elmo kay Julie. His hands looked for Julie’s pussy and he plays with her clit. At bigla namang
napamoan ng malakas ito.

“Ahhhhh… Elmooooo-ooohh! Aaannng saaaraaaap niyaaan!” And when Elmo heard that, he inserted his
middle finger in her wet pussy.

“Uhhhhh, Elmoooo! Uhhh. Shiiiiittt!”

“Baby, ang dami mong pre-cum oooohhh!” She continued.

“Baby you’re so wet na, lemme go inside and feel youuuuuu-uuuuhhhh!”

Elmo carried her, and Julie guided his manhood to her oh so wet pussy. And shoot! While he’s carrying
Julie, he sits on the bowl and their body is bumping and grinding.

“Uhhhhhh… Elmooooo!!!”

“Juliiiieeeee, baby… I’m commmmiiiiinnnggggg!” Elmo thrusts harder, faster and deeper.

“Uhhhhhh Elmo, akoooo riiiiinnnnn!!! Sabaaaay tayoooo!”Julieeee screamed.

And they kissed again until they’ve reached their climax.

“Tara, Elmo ligo na tayo ulit. Yung totoong ligo na ha.” Hingal na sabi niya as she planted a kiss on his
lips.

*****

“Here we are all alone in this room. And girl I know where to start and what we’re gonna do.” Take You
Down now playing…

“Grabe naman sila magpapatugtog sa baba. Sobrang lakas.” Julie said, habang nagpapatuyo ng hair.

“It ain’t my first time but baby girl we can pretend. Hey let’s bump and grind girl tonight we’ll never
end.” Biglang kumanta si Elmo.

“Let me take you down, I really wanna take you down.” At kumanta rin naman si Julie.

Lumapit naman si Elmo sakanya and hugged her from behind.

“Eh bakit mo kinakanta?” He said while smelling her hair.

“Bakit masama ba? Eh nakakadala yung song eh.”

“Ah…” tumango-tango pa si Elmo while rubbing his chin on her shoulder. “Ang sabihin mo, nahohorny ka
lang.” Elmo teased her at saka pa niya hinalikan ang balikat nito. Humarap naman si Julie kay Elmo at
hinampas ang chest nito

“Ako ba? Baka ikaw. Haha!”

“Hmm… Tara round 2, baby.” Sabay nakaw ng halik sa lips ni Julie.

“Bakit naman ako papayag? Aber?” Sabay lagay ng braso nito sa neck ni Elmo.

“Eh kasi you can’t resist my body.” Sabay kiss sa lips ni Julie. “And also my kisses.” At sabay halik pa ulit
sa lips nito. He smiled at her at saka pa nagtaas-baba ng kilay. “Diba?”
“Medyo confident ka banda dun ha. Hahaha!” natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Bakit? Hindi ba? Eh totoo naman. Aminin mo, baby. The first time we did it, hindi ka nakatulog no? You
were thinking about me.”

“Ang kapal!!” defensive na sabi ni Julie at saka pa piningot ang tenga ng binata. “Baka ikaw. Katok ka pa
ng katok sa unit ko. Hanggang madaling araw eh. Oh ano? Sinong di makatulog diyan. Ha?” pang-aasar
niya.

“Hahaha. Fine, fine. Ako na nga po. Eh kasi naman eh…” at pinagdikit pa niya ang mga noo nila.

“Eh kasi ano?”

“Tsk. Secret lang ha…” nakangiting sabi ni Elmo at nagnose to nose pa sila.

“Oo na. Ano nga?”

“Nakakaadik ka po kasi, Julie Anne.” He whispered sabay halik sa tenga nito. Nakiliti naman si Julie sa
ginawa ni Elmo at saka natawa. “Why are you laughing? Totoo naman kasi.”

“Oo na. Gets ko na naaadik ka saken.” And she again wrapped her arms around his neck. “Ako din…”

“You’re addicted to me? I knew it.” Naka-smirk na sabi ni Elmo.

“Hindi. Ako din adik sa sarili ko. Mga tanong naman…” and before she could finish her sentence ay
hinalikan na siya ni Elmo.

“You’re very talkative. Alam mo ba yun?” Elmo said against her lips. Binuhat na siya ni Elmo and they
kissed their way to his bed. Dahan-dahan siyang hiniga ng binata without even breaking their kiss.

Elmo sucked on her right bosom as he played with her clit na lalo naman kinabaliw ng dalaga.

“Elmooooo… Uhhhhh… Baby sigeeeee paaaaa…” she moaned as she arched her back from the
sensations she’s feeling. Lalo namang ginalingan ni Elmo at saka binalik ang halik sa mga labi niya.
“Hmmmmmm… Moeeeeeee…”

“Julieeee…”

“Elmoooo… Babyyyy I wanna feel your hardness inside meeeee…” hinihingal na sabi ni Julie. Agad
namang sumunod si Elmo and he entered her.

“Oooooh. Julie, babyyyyy ang sikiiiiip mo pa diiiiin…” he said as he thrusts slowly. Hinalikan niya ulit si
Julie while he thrusts.

“Elmooooo… Uhhhhhh…” parang nababaliw na si Julie sa ginagawa ni Elmo. Napapabaon na ang kuko
niya sa likod ng binata pero imbes na masaktan ito ay lalo pang ginanahan si Elmo. “Faster
babyyyyyyyy…”
“Baby, malapit na koooo.” He said. Nagulat siya nang pumaibabaw sa kanya si Julie at saka ito naman
ang gumawa ng mga damoves sa kanya. Julie kissed him all over his face and his neck while she thrusts
up and down. “Uuhhhhhhhhhhh… Julie bilisan mo pa, pleeeeeaseeeeee!!!” sinunod naman siya ng
dalaga and before they knew it, sabay na silang nanginig and napabagsak na lang si Julie sa dibdib niya.

“Your body body oh. Your body body up and down. So don’t stop girl get it, quit playing can’t wait no
more.”

“Baby, narinig mo ba yon?” Elmo asked.

“Baby, you take me down.” Sabay kindat kay Elmo.

“No Julie, you take me down.” And he hugged her tight while she was lying on top of him habang
nilalaro ni Elmo ang buhok niya.

“Why do you look so beautiful?” Elmo asked. Humarap naman si Julie sa kanya and kissed the tip of his
nose.

“Haha. Eh ikaw? Bakit ang gwapo-gwapo mo?” she asked. Elmo shrugged and smiled at her.

“I don’t know. Hahaha.” He said.

“Hmp. Ewan ko sayo. Haha.”

“Di ka ba napagod?” he asked her.

“Napagod sobra. I wanna sleep na, baby. Tulog na tayo please?” she asked as she hugged him.

“Yeah. Let’s sleep na. Goodnight, baby.” Sagot ni Elmo at saka na nito hinalikan ang noo niya.

*****

“Asan na naman yung dalawa?” Pagtataka ni Derrick.

“Ma! Bakit saken mo tinatanog, may tracker ba ko?” mataray na sagot ni Sef. “Marie, wherelaloo na si
Julieta and Elmokong?”

“Aba malay ko din! Biglang nawala eh.” Sagot ni Maqui pero at the back of her mind ay may
nararamdaman na siyang kakaiba sa kilos ng dalawa. “Heto nanaman po tayo.” She thought.

CHAPTER 12
Nagising si Elmo dahil sa sunud-sunod na katok sa pinto niya. He stood up and sleepwalked towards his
door.

“What?” inaantok na sabi niya. He saw his brother na nakatingin lang sa kanya. “Barq, bakit?” he asked
again.

“Uhm…” his brother said at saka pa ito parang may tinitignan sa loob. Tinapik naman ni Elmo ang noo ni
Arkin at saka pa pinanlakihan ito ng mata. “Uhm… Mom said breakfast is ready.” He continued.

“Okay. Be down in 5.” Inaantok pang sabi niya at saka sinara ulit ang pinto. Lumakad naman pabalik sa
kama si Elmo at tumabi ulit kay Julie. She was still sleeping kaya naman Elmo took his time to stare at
her angelic face. Memorizing every detail of her face. Napangiti siya at napailing naman.

“Julie…” tawag niya rito. Gumalaw naman ng konti si Julie but didn’t open her eyes. “Julie, baby… Wake
up…” sabi niya.

“Hm…” sabi ni Julie at saka ito dahan-dahang dumilat.

“Good morning.” Elmo said at saka ito hinalikan sa noo.

“Morning.” She replied with a smile.

“Uhm… Baby…” sabi nito and looked at her naughtily.

“What?” Julie asked.

“Si ano oh. Alive na alive. Hehe.” Natatawang sabi nito at saka tumingin pa sa ibaba. Julie looked at
where he was looking and natawa.

“Tigilan mo ko Elmo ha.” She said at saka na tumayo at dumiretso sa cr.

“Eh di ko naman siya mapipigilan eh. Everytime I look at you, automatic na eh.” He said at saka pa
sumandal sa pintuan ng cr niya.

“Psh. Whatever. Alam kong every morning ganyan yan.”

“How’d you know that? Eh ako nga first mo diba?”

“Sef is still a boy. Everytime na natutulog sila ni Maqui sa condo ganyan siya sa umaga. Naiirita na nga
siya eh. Hahahaha.”

“Okay, okay. Pero wala man lang ba kong…” he trailed off.

“What?”

“Ano…” he said and he even pouted. Julie laughed at him and kissed him on his chin. Napasimangot
naman si Elmo sa ginawa niya.
“Daya. Bakit sa chin lang?” reklamo niya.

“Eh di ka pa nagtutoothbrush eh. Hahaha.” Natatawang sagot nito.

“Psh. Deal ha? May kiss ako pag nagtoothbrush na ko.”

“Isipin ko.” Natawa na lang si Elmo at saka napailing.

*****

“Looks good on you.” Sabi ni Elmo nang suotin ni Julie ang isa sa mga t-shirt at boxer shorts niya.

“Hahaha. Bola.”

“It’s true! Ang cute mo nga eh.” He commented as he hugged her and planted a kiss on her hair. “Bango
bango talaga.” Sabi niya at saka pa siya niyakap ng mahigpit.

“Pero sana you’re not squeezing me kasi di na po ako makahinga.”

“Hahaha. Sorry. Nakakagigil ka lang kasi.” Sagot niya. “Tara na sa baba.”

“Ha? Seryoso ka?” alinlangang tanong ni Julie. “Eh paano kung andiyan si Frank?”

“Wala yun. I’m sure sina mom and sina Barq lang nasa baba. Promise.” Malambing na sabi nito.

Bumaba na sila at sabay na naglakad sa breakfast nook nang…

“Oh! Julie, you’re here?” Frank asked, na gulat na gulat. Nagkatinginan silang dalawa dahil they weren’t
expecting to see that his family would be complete that time.

“Oh! You slept here, Jules?” Saab asked.

“And is that Mosey’s shirt?” pagtataka ni Maxx and looked at her brother curiously.

“Guys, what happened? Really?” Pia asked.

“Chillax, guys. Julie slept here kasi she was really drunk last night and kaya she’s wearing my clothes kasi
nasukahan niya yung dress niya.” Elmo explained.

“Wait, wait. So she slept in your room?” Maxx interrogated.

“Yeah. Don’t worry, Maxx. I slept naman sa floor eh.”

“Good. Atleast we know that nothing happened between the two of you.” Pia said. “Tara kain na tayo.”
She motioned for them to take their sit.

“Ate Julie, tabi tayo.” Arkin said cheerfully.

“Eh. I want Ate Julie to sit next to me!” sabi naman ni Clara.

“Hay nako, Julie. Pagpasensyahan mo na sila. Hahaha.” Natatawang sabi ni Maxx.

“Okay lang po.” And she sat between the two.

*****

“Bro, ano ba talagang nangyari?” Frank asked. “Bakit bigla na lang kayong nawala?” he added. Elmo
looked at his brother na para bang nakikiusap. Tapos na silang kumain nun and Julie was bonding with
his younger siblings.

“Frank, please don’t tell Maqui yet…” he started. Tinignan naman siyang maigi ng kuya niya but he soon
nodded.

“Sige bro.”

“Okay. Kasi she was really drunk last night diba? I took her to my room kasi sabi niya nasusuka na daw
talaga siya. Tapos yun. Inasikaso ko siya kasi sobrang lasing lang talaga siya kagabi.” He explained. “Yun
lang talaga nangyari.”

“Seryoso?” his brother asked again. Elmo looked straight at his brother’s eyes and nodded.

“Yun lang talaga.”

*****

Julie was in their guest room with Clara nang biglang kumatok si Elmo and entered the room.

“Hi, kuya!” masayang bati ni Clara. Ngumiti naman ito at saka tumingin sa kanya.

“Jules, hiniram kita ng damit from Maxx.” He said at saka inabot ang mga damit kay Julie.

“Thank you.” Nakangiting sabi nito.

After maligo at magbihis ni Julie ay nagpaalam na sila sa pamilya ni Elmo.

“Thank you po tita.” Sabi ni Julie.

“Sure thing sweetie.” Nakangiting sabi ni Pia sa kanya.

“Bye, Ate Julie. Next time ulit ha?” Clara said as she hugged her.

“Hahaha. Oo naman.”

“Bye, Ate Julie!” sabi ni Arkin at nag-apir pa siya.

“Bye, Jules. Next time okay?” Maxx said as she kissed her cheeks.

“Bye, Julie. Ingat kayo.” Saab said. Frank just gave her a sideways hug at saka tumango. Umalis na sila ni
Elmo at sabay na umuwi sa condo nila.

*****

Ilang minuto ng naghihintay si Maqui sa labas ng condo unit ni Julie pero mukhang wala ito doon. Ilang
beses na din siyang nag-attempt na tawagan ito pero cannot be reached naman iyon.

“Asan na kaya yung babaeng yun? Nako, Julie Anne…” she said to herself. Lumipas ang ilang minuto at
hindi pa rin dumadating ang bestfriend niya kaya she decided to just leave. Pero she was just about to
round the corner papunta sa elevator ay nakita na niya si Julie. At hindi lang ang kaibigan. Kasama nito si
Elmo at mukhang masayang masaya pa sila.

“Weh. Whatever. Ang daya mo talaga.” Julie said at saka pa ito tumawa.

“Hey! I didn’t cheat ha. Kasalanan ko bang mabagal ka talagang makahanap ng red car? Hahahaha.”
Natatawang sabi ni Elmo.

“Ehem.” Maqui cleared her throat at nagulat naman ang dalawa.

“Oh, Maq. Andito ka pala.” Julie said.

“Uhuh. Been here since kanina pa. Mga 20 minutes ago. Uuwi na nga sana ako eh. Kaya lang nakita na
kita. Ay. Kayo pala.” Medyo mataray na sabi ni Maqui.

“Why are you here, Maq? Bakit di mo kasama si Frank?” Elmo asked. Maqui glared at him bago ito
sumagot.

“Bawal ko na bang dalawin ang bestfriend ko? Ha, Elmo?” mataray na sagot nito.

“Eh bakit ang sungit mo? Red days? Haha.” Pang-aasar pa ni Elmo. Julie pinched his side at saka pa siya
tinignan ng masama. “Ooow.” Sabi nito.

“Julie, pwede ba tayong mag-usap? Alone.” Maqui said again. Tumingin naman si Julie kay Elmo at
pagkatapos, kay Maqui.

“Uhm… Tara sa loob, Maq…” she said and she opened the door to her condo.

*****

He was still standing in the hallway and nakatingin sa pintuan ni Julie. Nagtataka siya sa kilos ni Maqui
dahil parang naging mataray ito sa kanya.

“Elmokong!” nagulat siya nang marinig ang matinis na boses ng bestfriend ni Julie na si Sef.
“Uy, Sef.” Bati niya.

“Whatchadoin’ over here and over there?” he asked.

“Uhm…”

“Vaketch mo sinasight ang doorlaloo ni Julieta? Magkakapera ka ba kapag tumitig diyan?” tanong pa
nito.

“Ha? Haha. Wala, wala. Andyan si Maqui sa loob.”

“Noselift ko yun, Moks. Kaya nga anditey na akiz eh. Alamona. Girl bonding!” sabi pa nito. “Anyway,
highway, by the way. Kagabi nga pala, san ka nagpunta? Bigla kayong nawaley ever so bongga ni
Julieta?”

“Ha? Ano ah… Sinamahan ko siya sa cr. Nagsuka kasi eh.” He answered.

“Hmp. Pakatagal naman sa cr. Naflush na ganyan?”

“Ha? Hehe. Hindi ah. Nasukahan niya kasi damit niya. Kinuha ko pa ng pampalit.”

“Whatevs. Anyway, kagabi nga pala nameet namin yung girlfriend mo. Si Lauren. Nagkausap ba kayo
kagabi? She was looking for you eh.” Biglang seryosong sabi ni Sef.

“Ah yeah. I talked to her already. Ano, Sef. Break na kami ni Lauren eh.”

“Ooooh. So… Ex pala dapat?”

“Yeah…”

“Okay. Anyway, gorabels na akiz sa loob ha?” Sef was about to knock at Julie’s door nang pigilan siya ni
Elmo.

“Wait.” He said.

“Ano?”

“Can we talk first?” he asked. Wala namang nagawa si Sef kundi ang tumango. “Okay lang ba kung sa
rooftop tayo mag-usap?”

“Sureness.” At umakyat na sila sa rooftop ng condo building nila.

*****

“Ang dami mong kailangang iexplain sa akin, Julie Anne ha?” Maqui said as soon as she closed Julie’s
door.
“Ha?’

“Nakoooo. Wag ka na magmaang maangan diyan. Come on, tell me.”

“Tell you what, Maq?” inosenteng tanong ni Julie.

“Bakit bigla kang nawala kagabi? Frank told me na may dapat ka daw sabihin sa akin eh. Go.” Napatingin
naman si Julie sa kanya bago ito nagbuntong hininga.

“Promise mo munang di ka magagalit?”

“Julie naman eh!”

“Magpromise ka muna kasi, Maq! Dali.”

“Fine, fine.” At nagpinky swear pa sila just like the old times.

“And di ka magsasalita until I’m finished. Okay?” tumango na lang si Maqui at saka na tumabi sa kanya
sa sofa.

“Now please… Explain.” Maqui said.

“Okay. I was really drunk last night, diba? Nagpunta ako sa cr and yun. Nagsuka ako. Kaya nga lang,
nasukahan ko pati damit ko. Buti inalalayan ako ni Elmo. Tas ayun. Nagulat ako pagkagising ko, iba na
yung damit ko.” She explained. May stayed silent as if waiting for more. “Maq, okay na.”

“Hindi okay, Julie eh. Feeling ko kasi may tinatago ka talaga sa akin. Feeling ko may kulang sa kwento
mo.” Maqui finally said.

“Maq, trust me. Totoo lahat yun. Okay?”

“Eh bakit parang biglaan kayong naging close ni Elmo?”

“Wala. Narealize ko lang na okay naman pala siya.”

“Julie…” Ramdam ni Maqui na may gustong sabihin sa kanya si Julie pero parang may pumipigil sa
kanyang magsalita. Julie smiled at her at saka pa hinawakan ang kamay niya.

“Maq, yun lang talaga. Promise.” And she hugged her bestfriend.

*****

“So ano, Elmokong? Nganga na lang tayo ditey? Di ka na magsasalita over there?” inip na sabi ni Sef.
They’ve been at the rooftop for about 10 minutes pero di pa rin niya naririnig magsalita si Elmo.

“Uhm… Sef. About Julie…”

“Oh? Anmeron kay Julieta?”

“Ano kasi eh. Uhm… Pano ba?” Elmo said to himself.

“Baliwag na ata itey. Hay nako Elmo, kung may problema ka kay bff, wag mo ko idamay.”

“Wait, wait. Heto na nga magsasabi na ko eh.”

“Pakabagal ever kasi. Okay go!”

“Sef, magagalit ka ba if ever I confess something to you?” tanong ni Elmo sabay tumingin pa sa kaibigan.

“Hep! Hep! Elmo ha. I know I’m gay pero please! May taste naman ako!” tinignan naman siya ng
masama ni Elmo kaya natawa si Sef. “Ay hindi ba ako? Hehe. Nililinaw lang.”

“Ano kasi… I think I’m starting to like Julie na.”

*****

Days and weeks passed at patuloy lang sa pagiging maasikaso si Elmo kay Julie. Madalas niyang
pinupuntahan ito sa building nila para lang dalan ng pagkain. Lalo na kapag alam niyang hindi
nagbreakfast si Julie dahil sa kakamadali nito.

“Ayan nanaman si lover boy.” Pang-aasar ni Derrick nang makita nanaman nilang nagmamadaling
maglakad si Elmo papunta sa building nila Julie.

“Nako, pare. Mga style mo bulok!” sigaw ni Kris at saka na sila naglakad papunta sa canteen.

“Oh. Wherelaloo nanaman si Elmo?” tanong ni Sef.

“Edi ano pa? Ayun, sinundo nanaman si Julie sa kabilang building.” Sagot naman ni Steven.

“Haha. Nako, RJ. Naunahan ka na ata ng mokong ah!” asar ni Derrick kay Alden.

“Sira. Wala akong gusto kay Julie ah.”

“Oh. Wala naman kaming sinasabi ah. Ikaw, Alden pakadefensive mo.” At nag-apir pa sina Kris at
Derrick.

“Hay nako. Kumain na nga lang tayo. Tommy Hilfiger na ko eh. Pakapagong niyo ever kasi dumating eh.”

“Sorry naman, Sef. Haha. Oh! Yan na pala sila eh.” Sabi ni Steven when he saw Julie and Elmo
approaching their table.

“Bagalness the two of you ha?” puna ni Sef.

“Sorry, Jeg.” Sagot ni Julie at saka pa bumeso kay Sef. “Hi guys!” bati niya sa kanila.
“Uhm… Jules, what do you want?” tanong ni Elmo.

“Kaw na bahala.” She replied.

“Okay! Upo ka lang diyan ha.” At naglakad na ito para umorder ng food nila.

*****

“Derrick said you’ve been extra caring to Julie this past few weeks.” Frank said. Dalawa lang sila nun sa
bahay at naisipan nilang mag one on one ng kapatid niya.

“Yeah.” Tipid na sagot ni Elmo at saka niya kinuha ang bote ng beer na inaabot sa kanya ng kuya niya.

“So… You and Lo…”

“We broke up already Frank…”

“Kailan pa?” tanong ng kuya niya.

“Remember the frat party?”

“Yung nawala ka bigla? Yeah. I remember that.”

“Yun. That’s when we broke up.”

“Bakit daw?”

“Well, she told me that I’m insensitive and immature. Kaya ayun. Decided to just get things over with.
Nakipagbreak ako.”

“At ikaw pa talaga ang nakipagbreak ha? “

“Actually bro, siya ang may gusto. Ako lang naman ang tumapos. Kaya that night, I went home early kasi
ayokong ibuhos yung galit ko sa inyo or sa ibang tao.” He explained.

“And Julie?”

“Well… I like her. Mabait siya and she’s been a good friend to me.”

“I can see that bro. Bumalik ang dating Elmo.” Nakangiting sabi ni Frank. Tumango naman si Elmo at saka
rin siya nginitian. “So, you like her na pala ha.”

“Yes, Frank. And I think I’m starting to fall for her na…” napangiti na lang si Frank sa pagiging honest ng
kapatid sa kanya. He ruffled his brother’s hair and punched him lightly on his left arm.

“Good for you.” He said.

*****

She’s been sick the whole day. Hindi niya alam kung bakit lagi siyang nahihilo at bakit parang lahat ng
kinakain niya, di tinatanggap ng sikmura niya. Actually, simula pa nung isang araw ay ganun na ang
feeling niya. Start pa naman na din ng summer classes nila kaya talagang nanghihinayang siya sa
absences niya.

“Hayyy. Bakit ba ganito feeling ko? Wala naman akong nakain na bawal sa akin.” She said to herself.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

“Sino naman kaya yun?” tanong niya as she stood up from bed to see who it is.

CHAPTER 13

“Sino naman kaya yun?” tanong niya as she stood up from bed to see who it is. She looked at the
peephole and saw that it was her favorite person in the world.

“Maqui!” she squealed the moment her bestfriend entered her unit.

“Oh. Excited much, dear?” nakangiting sabi ni Maqui. They hugged each other at saka na naglakad
papunta sa sofa. “How are you? May sinumbong sa akin si Sef ha.”

“Ha? Ano nanamang dinaldal ni bakla sayo?” she asked as she lays down.

“Weeeell. Sabi niya hindi ka daw pumapasok. What’s happening? You sick?” worried na tanong nito sa
kanya.

“Yeah. Ewan ko ba Maq. Lagi akong nahihilo tapos parang something’s wrong with my tummy. And I feel
nauseated ganyan.” Julie explained.

After she explained, she ran towards to the bathroom and vomitted pero wala naman lumalabas.
Sinundan siya ni Maqui and asked her,

“Hey, ano okay ka lang ba? You want punta na lang tayo sa hospital?”

“Eh ayoko Maqui, natatakot ako eh.”

“Bakit ka matatakot? Yung totoo Julie Anne, may ginawa ka ba ha?” Pagtatakang tanong ni Maqui sa
kanya.

“Eh alam mo naman na ayaw ko pumupunta don. Hay. Sige na, Maqui wag na lang. Please.”
Paglalambing niya kay Maqui.
“Oo na, oo na.”

“Maq, will you please cook something for me? Yung favorite ko!”Sabi ni Julie na parang bata. “Sige na,
please please Maqui.” She continued.

“Para kang naglilihi diyan, San Jose.” Nabiglang sabi ni Maqui.

“Hoy Frencheska, wag ka ngang magsalita ng ganyan diyan. Minsan lang maglambing sayo eh, tsaka I’m
hungry na eh.”

“Sige na baby girl. I’ll go and check your kitchen, okay?”

“Yehey! Thanks Maqui!” Sabay halik sa bestfriend nito.

*****

Maqui cooked Julie’s favorite, pancakes with bacon and egg and orange juice. She called out for Julie,
“Jules! Breakfast is ready!” After a minute di pa rin lumalabas si Julie. So Maqui went to her bedroom
para tawagin ito, but she was shocked when she saw Julie na nasa sahig at walang malay. She called
Frank immediately para masamahan siya sa hospital.

*****

Dinala nila sa emergency room si Julie and a doctor checked on her. Medyo kinakabahan si Maqui, dahil
kanina pa siya nakakafeel na may something talaga kay Julie. Ayaw man niyang isipin pero mukhang
alam na niya kung bakit.

“Kayo ba yung kasama ng pasyente?” Tanong ng doctor.

“Opo. I’m her bestfriend. What happened to her po?” Pag-aalala ni Maqui.

“She’s 2 weeks pregnant. And very delicate yung pagbubuntis niya.” Sabi ng doctor.

“Sinasabi na eh. Nako, Julie Anne. Lagot ka talaga sakin.”

“Ililipat na muna namin siya sa isang private room. And please wag sana siya masyadong ma-stress. I’ll
visit her there na lang for some reminders. Kung wala na kayong mga questions, I’ll go to my next client.
Excuse me. Thank you.” Sabi ng doctor.

“Buntis si Julie, babe? May boyfriend ba siya? Or don’t tell me, tama yung naiisip kong tao?” Frank
getting nervous.

Saktong dating naman ni Sef. “Girl, what happened to Julie? Okay na ba siya? OMG. Nag-cut akong class
for her. What?”

“Sef, Julie is pregnant.” Maqui said calmly.

“HUWAAAAAT?! OHMYGOSH! OHMYGOSH!” nagpapanic na sabi ni Sef at umarte pa itong hinihimatay.

“Hoy bakla! Wag ka ngang umarte diyan!” sabi ni Maqui at saka pa ito sinampal sa pisngi.

“Ay masakit yun, Marie ha. Jombag betchiwariwap mo?” sabi ni Sef pagkatayo nito. “Eh kasi naman girl.
Anyare? How’d she get pregnant?” nagkibit-balikat naman sina Maqui and Frank at saka tumingin sa
natutulog na Julie. “Wait… Don’t tell me… OMG! Virgin Mary siya?! As in from Lord ang baby? I mean…
Jesus Christ?!”

“Isa pa bakla ha?! Sasapakin na kita. Nag-aalala na nga ako dito umaariba ka pa diyan.” Iritang sabi ni
Maqui.

“Joke lang po, manang. Makareactness naman over there. I was just trying to make you laugh. Yung
wrinkles mo kasi mej showy tahday eh.” He replied. “Pero seryoso… Who’s the father?” tanong ni Sef.

“I think I have an idea. Pero I don’t want to conclude just yet…” si Frank ang nagsalita.

*****

The doctor visited her.

“Hi Julie! How are you?”

“Feeling better doc. Medyo I feel dizzy lang po. Ano po bang nangyayari sakin doc?”

“Normal lang yan Julie sa pagbubuntis mo, pero let me remind you, you’re not allowed to stress yourself
too much ha, plus you have to take all the vitamins I have given, and please eat well.” The doctor
explained to her.

“Po? Buntis ako?”Gulat na tanong ni Julie.

“Yes iha, hindi ba sinabi sayo ng mga friends mo?”

“No. Kayo na lang daw po ang antayin ko to know the truth.”

“Ah I see. 2 weeks pregnant ka Julie. And you’re condition is somehow delicate since it’s your first baby.
Kaya lahat ng bilin ko sayo, wag mo kakalimutan ha? And don’t forget your follow-up check-ups okay?”

“I will doc. Thank you.”

“You can go home tomorrow.”

“Thank you again, doc.”

As her doctor bid goodbye, she turned to Maqui, “Maqui, bakit di mo sinabi sakin na buntis ako?”
mangiyak-ngiyak na sabi ni Julie.
“Eh Julie kasi, gusto ko yung doctor talaga eh. Sa totoo lang, nagtatampo ako sayo kasi may hindi ka
nagkwento sakin. Pero okay lang, ayoko ma-stress ka friend eh. Sige na, go rest na. Sasamahan kita sa
condo mo bukas.” Maqui said calmly.

“Maqui, I’ll explain everything pag nakauwi na tayo. I’m sorry bestfriend.” Julie started to cry.

“Hey baby girl, don’t cry. Makakasama yan sa baby mo. Sabi ng doctor di ba don’t stress yourself. Okay
lang ako, di ako galit.” She smiled.

*****

Si Sef at Maqui ang kasama pauwi ng condo ni Julie. Pinakiusapan ni Maqui si Frank to buy some fruits
and milk sa grocery and also Julie’s vitamins.

“Oh Julie, go get some rest in your room.” Maqui said.

“Okay lang ako, Maqui. Hmm. Pwede ko ba kayong makausap ni Sef?”

“Ayan wild confessions ang peg ni Julieta. Ke aga aga pa. Jusmiyo marimar!”

“Ano ba, Jeg.” Paninita ni Maqui kay Sef.

“Sige, Julie. Basta wag mo masyadong istress yung sarili mo while telling us the whole story ha?”

“Ano ka ba, Maq. Okay lang ako.” She smiled.

“Okay… Here we go. Ayoko ng violent reactions ha. Patapusin niyo muna okay?” she continued.

Maqui and Sef nodded.

“Remember the last time we attended the frat party? Yung nawala ako bigla na ang sabi ko lang, kukuha
ako ng water? I saw Elmo at the bar counter. He was so drunk that time, he even talked to me about his
ex-girlfriend. So I joined him, thinking na he needs my company. Yeah, I admit medyo tipsy na ako that
time. Then, he invited me to the dancefloor, then after that we ran away. Umuwi kami dito sa condo ko,
and yeah we did that “thing” in my room, kaya may bloodstain kayong nakita. And after that naging
awkward na kami sa isa’t isa. And sorry to tell you this again, pero naulit yon. Not once, but twice. Sa
grad party niyo, Maq. Sinamahan niya ko sa kwarto niya para sumuka, then sa sobrang kalasingan ko
Maqui, parang I let him take advantage of me. It happened in Elmo’s room’s cr. And then after that, in
Elmo’s bed, but that time di na ko lasing, as in alam ko na we did that. Na I allowed him to do that to me.
And di ako nagreregret na we did that eh. And nakalimutan ko na hindi pala ako safe. Sorry for lying to
the both of you. I’m really really sorry.” Julie explained while she’s crying.

“Nakakashock, Julie. Pero inexpect ko kasi na yeah, may nangyari sa inyong dalawa. Kasi you two were
getting weirder and weirder everytime na magkakasama tayo. But, hey stop crying. Nangyari na eh.
Andito naman kami to support you on whatever decision you’ll make.” Maqui almost cried while saying
those to Julie.
“Julieta, ganon kayo katindi ni Magalona? Grabe. Waley akiz masabi Julieta. Yang si Elmokong ay
gravity!” Sef added na siya namang ikinatawa ng dalawang babae.

“Pero Julie, ano kayo ni Elmo? Paano yung baby niyo? Anong balak mo?” Maq asked.

“Hmm. I don’t know, Maq. Masaya ako everytime we’re together and with my baby, I’ll continue this.
Pero Maq and Sef can we please keep this as a secret? Please? Pretty please?” pakikiusap niya sa dalawa
niyang kaibigan.

“Pero Julie, Frank knows that you’re pregnant, remember?”

“Maqui, ikaw na bahala kay Frank. Ayoko kasi, natatakot ako na paano kung di naman matatanggap ni
Elmo yung baby namin. Tsaka feeling ko di pa siya ready with this kind of responsibility. And ni hindi ko
nga alam kung kaya ba namin to na buo kasi dala ng kalasingan eh.”

“Ano ka ba Jules, diba sabi mo naman nung sa grad party, nung ginawa niyo yun hindi ka na lasing, and
plus you forgot na di ka pala safe.”

“Naguguluhan ako Maqui, kaya please, wag na muna natin sabihin kay Moe. Promise sasabihin ko, ako
mismo magsasabi. Sa right time.”

Sef and Maqui hugged Julie.

“Oh tama na ang crayola Julieta. Ako na lang muna ang magiging pudrakels ng iyong anakiz. Chararat!
Hahaha.”

Tawang-tawa naman si Julie habang pinupunasan niya ang kanyang mga luha.

Biglang dating naman ni Frank, “Oh what’s with the drama, girls? Ay, di ka pala girl Sef. Feeling girl lang
haha!”

“Hoy Frankenstein, wag kang gumanyan ganyan over there, yang kapatid mong demonyito ang may
kasalanan ha!”

“Sef, ano ka ba. Di ba I said, di ako nagreregret with what had happened.” Pagtatanggol naman ni Julie
kay Elmo.

“Sorry, Julie. Sorry for what Elmo did to you.”

“Okay lang, Frank. But can you please do me a favor? I know this gonna be hard for you. Maiipit ka
samin. Pero please, don’t tell Elmo about my pregnancy. Please?”

“If that’s your decision Julie. Sige, hindi ko sasabihin.”

“Thanks, Frank” and she hugged him.

*****
Ilang araw na hindi nakikita ni Elmo si Julie sa school. Hindi naman siya umuuwi sa condo niya dahil
sobrang busy with his plates. Masyadong mabilis kasi ang summer classes nila. Sakto namang
nakasalubong niya si Sef na para bang nagmamadaling umuwi.

“Uy, Sef!” Tawag ni Elmo rito.

“Hello, Elmokong!”

“Bakit parang nagmamadali ka yata?” Elmo asked.

“Ah…eh kasi a-ano.”

“Uy, okay ka lang? Haha . Parang ngayon lang yata kita nakitang nag-stutter. Haha.” Pang-aasar naman
ni Elmo.

“Eh kasi naman ang dami kong gagawin ngayon! Hay jusme ang beauty ko naglalagas na! Kajirits!”
Pagrereklamo ni Sef.

“Haha. Ikaw talaga! Uh… by the way Sef, bakit parang di ko nakikita si Julie na pumapasok?”

“Isa pa yang babaitang yan sa stress ko! Jusmiyo marimar! May sakit kasi si Julieta eh. Doon nga ako
matutulog sa kanila tonight, para makapagreview na rin ako and for her to catch up on some lessons.”

“Ha? She’s sick? Shit, Elmo! I am not even aware!” naiinis si Elmo sa sarili niya.

“Chill ka lang dyan, hoy. She’s feeling better na. You don’t have to worry.”

“Hmm, Sef pwede bang ako na lang ang pumunta don? Gusto ko sana na bumawi sa kanya eh. Tsaka
para na rin makapagreview ka, and papaxerox ko na lang yung mga notes niya, then I’ll give it to her.
Okay lang ba yon?”

“Wow. SuperElmo talaga ang peg mo. Ikaw ha, Magalona! Pero sige na nga, para naman makapagbeauty
rest akiz. Pero paalala ko lang sayo na, magbebehave ka ha! May sakit ang bff ko, wag kang loloko-loko
ha!”

“Onaman, Sef.”

“Oh teka lang, Moks. Bilhan mo siya ng food ha. Nagsabi siya sakin na she wants ramen raw for dinner
and ice cream too. Hep, strawberry flavor okay?”

“Bakit para namang naglilihi si Julie sa bilin niya sa food?” Halos magsalubong ang kilay ni Magalona
nung tinanong niya si Sef.

“Eh may sakit nga siya eh, naglalambing nga kanina. Nakakadiri nga. Hahaha! Oh eto na yung mga notes
ng classmate niya, sige na ipaxerox mo na yan and I’ll wait for you here okay?” Pagpapalusot ni Sef.

*****
Elmo bought ramen and strawberry flavored ice cream for Julie. Sobrang naeexcite na siya to see her.
Sobrang miss niya kasi ang dalaga. Kasi naman sobrang busy niya talaga sa school kaya di na niya ito
nadadalaw at nakakausap. Kaya eto siya, babawi sa babaeng mahal niya.

Knock, knock, knock!

“Hay! Salamat naman at dumating ka na rin, bakla.” She opened the door and was surprised to see who
her visitor is, “Ay, ikaw pala Elmo.” Gulat na sabi niya.

“Hi, Julie.” He smiled sweetly.

“Why are you here?”

“Masama ka na bang dalawin ngayon?” sabay pout ni Elmo. “Meron pa naman akong dalang ramen and
ice cream, flavor strawberry. Balita ko gusto mo pa naman kumain niyan ngayon.”

“Aww. Did Sef tell you that?”

“Hindi mo man lang ba ko papapasukin? Dito mo talaga tayo gustong mag-usap?” he asked.

“ Uhm… Sorry. Pasok ka.” Sabi ni Julie at saka pa binuksan ng maayos ang pinto.

“Thanks. So… What do you want to do?” he asked.

“Uhm… Ewan ko. Pero mas maganda if I’ll eat first. Haha. Kanina pa ko nagugutom eh.” Sagot ni Julie
and took the bag from Elmo. “Thanks for this ha?” sabi niya. Habang kumakain si Julie ay tinitignan lang
siya ni Elmo.

“Takaw mo!” he teased her.

“Tss. Kanina pa ko nagugutom eh. Bakit ba?” she replied and took another spoonful of her ramen. After
she ate ay tumayo na siya at naglakad papunta sa kusina.

“Where are you going?” Elmo asked habang sinusundan niya ito ng tingin.

“Maghuhugas ng pinagkainan. Duh?” she answered.

“Tss. Wag na. May sakit ka diba? Ako na diyan.” He said at saka siya tumayo and followed her to the
kitchen. “Julie, let me do that for you.”

“Moe, masama lang pakiramdam ko. But I can still move.” She said at inagaw ulit ang tray kay Elmo.
“Mine.” She said.

“No. Give it to me. Ako na sabi eh.” He insisted.

“No. Ako na nga.” Pagpilit ni Julie.

“Julie, isa pa hahalikan na kita.” Julie stopped and handed him the tray.

“Oh ayan. Lamunin mo. Hmp!” at naglakad na ito ng padabog pabalik sa living room. Natawa na lang si
Elmo at napailing while he washed the dishes.

“Very moody ka talaga.” He said at saka sinulyapan si Julie na nakasimangot pa rin. “Hay, Julie. Galit or
nakasmile, ikaw pa rin ang pinakamagandang babae who ever lived in this planet.” He thought at saka
pa naghum habang naghuhugas.

*****

She was very happy to see him pero bigla siyang nainis nang pakielaman nito ang ginagawa niya.

“Feeling niya? Mag-asawa kami? Buset.” She whispered. Nang mapansing papalapit na si Elmo ay
inirapan niya ito.

“Uy, Miss Sungit. Sorry na.” pagsuyo ni Elmo sa kanya.

“Wag mo kong kausapin.” Pagsusungit niya.

“Aysuuuus. Tampo na siya. Ikaw naman. I don’t want to stress you okay? Nag-aalala lang ako sayo.” He
said at saka pa ito tumabi sa kanya. Hindi naman siya pinapansin ni Julie kaya kinalabit niya ito. “Julie…
Uy…”

“Wag mo kong kausapin sabi.”

“Julie… Bati na tayo please?” pagsuyo niya. “Baby naman eh.”

“Baby baby ka diyan? Sapak you want?” sabi nito at saka pa pinakita ang kamao niya. Elmo raised his
hands in mock surrender at saka inakbayan si Julie.

“Bati na kasi tayo. Teka…” he said at nagmadali siyang pumunta sa kitchen. Pagbalik niya ay dala na niya
ang ice cream na pinabili nito at saka ito binigay sa kanya.

“Ano yan?” she asked pero deep inside ay kinikilig na siya.

“Ice cream. Pampalamig diyan sa mainit mong ulo.” Elmo said habang sinusubukang tanggalin ang kunot
sa noo ng dalaga. “Dali na. Bati na tayo please?” Julie grabbed the ice cream bowl at saka siya nito
inirapan.

“Pasalamat ka talaga weakness ko ice cream eh. Kundi! Napalayas na kita dito sa unit ko.” Sabi niya at
saka na kumain ng ice cream.

“Hahaha. Yey! Bati na tayo ha?” he said at saka pa niya ninakawan ng halik ito sa noo. “Sooooo… wanna
watch a movie?” he asked at saka pa pumunta sa dvd rack ni Julie.

“No Strings Attached please?” Julie requested.

“RomCom? Let’s watch horror na lang!” he said and showed her the movie he likes.

“Bakit naman yan?”

“Para pag natakot ka, mapapayakap ka saken.” Bigla namang may tumamang unan sa mukha niya.
“Ouch!” sabi niya at saka tumawa ulit. “Joke lang. Hahaha. Fine, fine. No Strings Attached na nga.” And
he popped the dvd in at saka na umupo sa tabi nito. Julie moved closer to him at saka sinandal ang ulo
niya sa balikat ni Elmo.

Kalagitnaan ng movie ay nakarinig na si Elmo ng soft snores. He looked at the woman beside him and
saw that she was fast asleep. Napangiti na lang siya as he paused the movie.

“Hey… Bakit mo pinause? I’m watching pa eh.” She said.

“Shhh… You should go to sleep. You need it.” He said.

“Maaga pa naman eh…” she replied pero nakapikit na.

“Haha. Wag na makulit Julie. Matulog ka na.” sabi niya at saka na siya inalalayan papunta sa kwarto nito.
“Goodnight, Jules.” He whispered as she lays down on her bed. He kissed her forehead at saka niya ito
nginitian. “See you in the morning.”

CHAPTER 14

Julie woke up the next day feeling a little better. Agad namang hinanap ng mga mata niya si Elmo pero di
niya ito nakita. She was about to get up from bed nang may maramdamang gumalaw sa sahig. Dahan-
dahan niya itong sinilip and there, she saw him. Sleeping in all his glory at nakayakap pa ito sa orange
niyang throw pillow. At napatawa na lang siya because he is so damn cute. Para siyang batang natutulog.
Nagulat naman siya nang biglang gumalaw ito kaya she pretended to sleep again.

Elmo sat up and looked at her. Napangiti siya dahil as always, she would be beautiful in his eyes. And
aaminin niya. Hindi siya magsasawang titigan si Julie.

“Haha. Here I am again. Staring at you as if it’s my first time to see your face. Thank you, Julie. For being
the best neighbor in the world. For changing the old Elmo, to a whole new Elmo. Siguro kung di kita
nakilala, I wouldn’t be like this. Hindi siguro ako magbabago.” After he said those words ay hinalikan na
niya ito sa noo at saka na lumabas ng kwarto.

He walked to her fridge and opened it. Plano niyang ipagluto ito ng breakfast since she is still sick after
all. He looked inside the fridge and saw that it’s almost empty.

“Di man lang naggrocery. Hahaha.” Sabi niya sa sarili. Naisipan niyang kumuha na lang ng stock niya sa
unit niya para may lutuin siya. He decided to get the box of cereal, milk, oatmeal, some eggs, bacon and
the pancake mix na nakatengga lang naman sa condo niya. Pagbalik sa unit ni Julie ay nagsimula na
siyang magluto. Nagulat siya when the door opened and Maqui came in.

“Oh. Elmo, ikaw nagbantay kay Julie? I thought si Sef ang nandito?” pagtataka ni Maqui. She dialled Sef’s
number and agad namang sinagot ito ng kaibigan. “Bakla, akala ko ba dito ka matutulog?”

“Di na girl. Andyan naman si Magalona ever eh. Keriboomboom naman niya yun.”

“Haha. Pakaarte mo talaga. Okay fine. See you later na lang after mo sa school. Bye.” And Maqui put her
phone down. “So, Moe. What’s that?” tanong ni Maqui habang nakasilip sa ginagawa ni Elmo.

“I’m making Julie some breakfast. Join us na. Madami naman to eh.” Yaya niya dito.

“Yeah, yeah. Haha. Plus pogi points ka ha? That’s all of Julie’s favorite.” Nakangiting sabi ni Maqui.

“Haha. Naks. So if ever pala, boto ka saken?” natatawa namang tanong ni Elmo.

“Depende. Kapag pumasa sa akin yang luto mo baka sakali. Hahaha.”

“Sabi na nga ba eh. My favorite person’s here already.” Napatingin sila nang makita si Julie na lumabas
ng kwarto and hugged Maqui. “Good morning, favorite person!!” she greeted her.

“Good morning, dear! Oh. Yung apples mo. Eat those ha?” Maqui said.

“Onaman. Haha. Hm… Smells good. What’s for breakfast?” at saka siya tumingin kay Elmo. Napangiti
naman si Elmo and placed the last pancake on the platter.

“We have: pancakes, bacon and egg, oatmeal and cereal. Tapos may orange juice sa ref or milk.
Depende sayo. Then the apples that Maqui brought.” Elmo said.

“Sounds great. Tara na? Kain na tayo?” pagyaya ni Julie. Umupo na silang tatlo and ate. Actually si Julie
lang ang kumain. The two were just drinking coffee while watching her eat.

“Jules, what’s your plan for today?” Maqui asked. Julie took a sip from her glass of orange juice bago
sumagot.

“I’ll be going to school. May exam ako today eh.” She replied.

“Sabay na tayo. I have an exam din eh.” Elmo said.

“Yun naman pala. So I have nothing to worry about since kasama mo naman si Moe.” Maqui said. “So I
guess, I’ll just see you later?” dagdag pa nito at saka na hinalikan sa noo si Julie. “Be good okay?” she
said. “Ikaw din, Moe.” And she ruffled Elmo’s hair at saka na umalis.

*****

“Jules, let’s go to Antipolo.” Pagyaya ni Elmo.

“Ha? When?” she asked. Nasa condo ulit ni Julie si Elmo at nanunuod sila ng movie.

“Tomorrow. It’s Clara’s birthday eh. And you know naman na she likes you very much. I’m sure
matutuwa yun if you’ll come to her party.” Elmo said.

“Hmm… Okay, okay. But I don’t have a gift for her.” Sabi niya. Inakbayan siya ni Elmo and kissed her
temple.

“Ano ka ba, okay lang kahit wala.”

“Eh. Nakakahiya eh. Tara. Let’s go to the mall.” Pagyaya ni Julie.

“Jules, late na pupunta pa tayong mall? And remember? Maqui and Sef will be here any minute.” Elmo
said.

“Eh what will I give Clara? Nakakahiya kasi eh. Wala man lang akong gift for her.” She said and she even
pouted.

“Haha. Come on, Jules. We can buy tomorrow. Before tayo pumunta sa Antipolo. Okay? Wag ka na ma-
bv diyan.” Sabi ni Elmo at saka pa ito niyakap.

“Okay fine. Basta agahan natin umalis bukas ha? Para I can choose pa.”

“Okay, okay. Malakas ka saken eh.” At saka na sila nanuod ulit ng movie.

*****

Kinabukasan maaga nga silang nagpunta sa mall and naghanap ng magandang regalo for Elmo’s sister.

“You sure, Clara will like my gift?” Julie asked while looking at the huge paperbag at the backseat of
Elmo’s car. Hinawakan naman ni Elmo ang kamay ni Julie and tumango ito.

“Of course. Favorite ni Clara yan eh.”

“You sure ha? Pag di niya nagustuhan yan, nako Elmo.” She said.

“Hahaha. Opo. Promise. Don’t stress yourself too much okay? Papagalitan ako ni Maqui if ever
magkasakit ka nanaman.” Sabi niya at saka pa minassage ni Elmo ang batok ni Julie.

*****

“He seems very happy.” Pia said while staring at his son who is busy bugging his sister.

“Yes tita. Mukha nga po eh.” Julie replied. Nagulat siya when Pia held her hand.

“Thank you, Julie.” she said.

“For what po, tita?” pagtataka niya.

“For bringing the old Elmo back.” Pia said.

*****

After the party ay nagpaalam na sila Elmo at Julie sa kanila. Elmo decided to bring Julie back at her
condo para makapagpahinga ito ng maayos. Nagsabi kasi si Julie na medyo sumakit ang ulo niya kanina.

“Jules…” he said as they enter her unit.

“Hm?”

“How’re you feeling?” he asked.

“Okay na ko, Moe. Thanks.” She replied.

“Hindi ako mapalagay eh. Uhm… Jules?”

“Yes?”

“Can I sleep here tonight?” paalam niya at nagpacute pa kay Julie.

“And why would you think na papayag ako?” Julie asked.

“Eh kasi ilang days naman na akong natutulog dito. Wala namang nangyari diba? And di ako mapalagay
eh. Feeling ko kailangan mo ng kasama.” Sagot nito.

“Aysus. Tactics mo ha. Dun ka na sa unit mo. Magkatapat lang tayo eh.”

“Eh…” Elmo protests. Julie laughed as she pushed Elmo palabas sa unit niya.

“Pasok ka na Moe.” She said.

“Ts. Daya mo. Okay goodnight.” And he kissed her on the forehead. “Dream of me?” nakasmirk niyang
sabi.

“Kapal! Haha. Goodnight.” And they both went inside their own units.

Hindi pa man nakakatagal ng ilang minuto ay nagring na ang cellphone ni Julie. Natawa siya when she
saw who the caller is.

“Moe I told you to sleep already.” She said pag-accept sa video call nito.

“I can’t. Gusto kong marinig boses mo eh. And I want to see you before I go to sleep.” He replied.
“Cheeseballs! Napakacorny mo ngayon.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie. Nagbihis na siya while her phone is on
speaker mode.

“What’re you doing? Parang ang layo mo. Di kita makita.” Elmo said. Bigla kasing nawala si Julie and ang
nakikita na lang niya ay ang ceiling ng kwarto ni Julie.

“Nagbibihis ako Moe. Wag kang magulo.” She replied at nang matapos ay kinuha na ulit ang phone and
lied down. “Anong ginagawa mo?”

“Wala. Kausap ka.” At nagsmirk pa ito. He saw that Julie rolled her eyes at natawa pa.

“How’s Sonic?” she asked.

“Ayun. He’s sleeping in his cage na.” and pinakita niya pa ang natutulog na aso. “Ikaw? Ano ng ginagawa
mo?”

“Trying to read a book.” She replied.

“What book? Let me see.” Nakangiting sabi niya.

“Basta. You’d laugh at me nanaman eh.”

“Hahaha. Maybe it’s one of the hopeless romatic kind no?” nagtaas-baba pa ng kilay si Elmo.

“Che! Makahopeless romantic ka naman diyan.”

“Haha. Uhm… Jules.”

“Hm?”

“Don’t hang up even if you’re sleepy already ha?”

“Ha? Why?” pagtataka ni Julie.

“Wala. Gusto ko lang na magkausap pa rin tayo kahit inaantok na. That way, para na din tayong tabi
natulog.” He explained.

“Hahaha. Moe, ang dami mo talagang alam.”

“Just do it. Please?”

“Yes po. Di na po.” She replied.

“Promise?”

“Promise.” And with Julie’s reply, napangiti naman lalo si Elmo. They talked about a lot of topics. From
books, to movies, to the places they want to go if ever they had the chance to and just anything under
the sun. Or should I say, under the stars. 3am na nang makita ni Elmo from his screen na nakapikit na si
Julie. He kissed his phone’s screen at saka pa ngumiti.

“Goodnight, antukin. Thanks for keeping your promise. Sleep tight.”

*****

The next morning, Elmo woke up dahil nararamdaman niyang kinikiliti nanaman siya ni Sonic. It has been
his dog’s favorite thing to do. Ang gisingin siya sa pamamagitan ng pag-lick sa toes niya. He opened his
eyes and true enough, Sonic was playing with his feet.

“Hey there, buddy. Aga mo ah.” Sabi niya as he carried his dog. Kumahol lang naman ito sa kanya and
jumped off his arm. “Uy!” sabi niya at hinabol niya ito. Laking gulat niya when he saw who his visitor is.

“Good morning!” Julie greeted him with that huge smile on her face habang pinipet pa nito si Sonic na
ang sarap ng tihaya sa floor.

“Good morning, beautiful.” Nakangiting sabi niya.

“Haha. I brought you breakfast.” Sabi pa nito and pinakita sa kanya ang mga nakahaing pagkain.
Napangiti naman si Elmo sa ginawa ni Julie.

“Aww. How sweet.” Sabi niya. Umupo na sila at sabay na kumain. They even washed the dishes together
dahil namilit nanaman si Julie na siya ang may gustong maghugas.

*****

“Julie…” kasalukuyan silang nanunuod ng tv nun and Julie was resting her head on his shoulder habang
nilalaro niya ang buhok nito.

“Hm?”

“Ano ba tayo?” it was a question she didn’t expect he would ask. Napatingin siya rito na may halong
pagtataka.

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“I mean, ano na bang meron tayo? We often spend time with each other, we do things that couples do
pero di ko man lang alam if we’re a couple already.” Elmo said.

“I don’t know, Moe. Pero ang alam ko, masaya ako everytime magkasama tayo.” She said. Hindi naman
nakakibo si Elmo at saka na lang napabalik ng tingin sa tv. “Hindi naman natin kailangan ng title diba?
The important thing is that we’re happy with each other. Basta ako, Moe…” sabi ni Julie as she made
Elmo face her. “…masaya ako sa’yo. “ she continued. Elmo smiled and nodded.

“Me too, Julie. Masaya ako sa’yo.” He said as he kissed her forehead. “Super happy pa nga.”
*****

“Jules, you ready?” he’s been waiting in her living room pero Julie seems to be taking long trying to fix
herself up. “Hay. Girls… Bakit ba ang tagal niyo lagi mag-ayos?” sabi niya habang naglalaro sa phone
niya. 10 minutes passed and still Julie stayed in her room. Elmo began worrying kaya he decided to just
go and check on her. Nagulat siya nang makita itong nakahandusay sa floor and walang malay. Agad
naman niya itong binuhat and nagmadaling magpunta sa hospital.

“Shit, Julie. Ano bang nangyayari sa’yo?” he said as he looked at her who was lying at the backseat of his
car.

*****

They arrived at the emergency room. Sobrang kinakabahan si Elmo sa nangyayari kay Julie. Wala talaga
siyang alam sa kung anong sakit nito. After an hour, Julie’s doctor went out of the emergency room.
Nilapitan naman ito agad ni Magalona.

“Hi Doc. How’s Julie po?”

“Diba sabi ko dapat hindi naiistress si Julie? Kasi makakaapekto ito sa baby niya. Lalo na at 1st baby pa
naman niya ito. She’s 3 months pregnant. Iniinom niya ba lahat ng mga vitamins na nireseta ko sa
kanya? And does she eat well ba? Are you the father? Or a family member?” the doctor asked.

Hindi agad nakasagot si Elmo dahil talagang nagulat siya.

“P-po? Buntis po si Ju-Julie?W-wala po kasi siyang nababanggit sakin. And yes, I am the father.” Elmo
stuttered.

“I guess you should talk to her. Kawawa yung baby niyo if ever.” Utos ng doctor.

“Thanks, Doc.”

“She has been transferred to a private room by the way. So if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go to my next client.”

*****

After Elmo talked to the doctor, he immediately called Maqui and asked her to go to the hospital
because of what had happened to Julie. He went inside of Julie’s room. He was standing at the side of
Julie’s bed. He doesn’t know what to feel. Di niya alam kung magagalit ba siya kasi tinago sa kanya ni
Julie, kung matutuwa ba siya dahil magiging tatay na siya or matatakot dahil hindi niya alam kung paano
niya ihahandle ang problemang ito. Nagsimula ng tumulo ang luha niya habang nag-iisip at tinititigan si
Julie. Para bang napakarami niyang gustong sabihin pero pakiramdam niya ay naduduwag siya. Biglang
may kumatok at bumukas ang pinto.

“Hi Moe. How is she?” Maqui asked calmly.

“She’s still sleeping.” He said as he tried to wipe away his tears.

“Ikaw Magalona ha, anik ang ginawa mo kay Julieta? Sabi nang behave eh.” Pagbibiro ni Sef.

“Hoy Sef, will you please keep quiet? Natutulog si Julie eh. Ano ka ba ha.” Sita ni Frank.

“Hmm, guys can we talk outside? Baka kasi magising si Julie if dito tayo mag-uusap.” Elmo said. Lumabas
naman silang apat ng kwarto.

*****

It has been a full 5 minutes pero wala pa ring nagsasalita ni isa sa kanila. Nabibingi na silang lahat sa
katahimikan but still, no one dared to start a conversation. Until…

“Moe…” Frank started.

“You guys knew all along?” Elmo asked calmly. Walang sumagot sa kanilang tatlo kaya he spoke again.
“Kailan pa?”

“Moe… Ano kasi eh…”

“Bro kailan niyo pa alam na buntis si Julie?” he started crying and his brother felt sad for him. Dahil it
was the first time since their dad died that he again saw him cry. Parang nadudurog ang puso ni Frank
dahil naaawa siya sa kapatid niya for being the last one to know when in fact, he is the father of the child
inside Julie’s womb.

“M-matagal na naming alam, Moe. But, Julie told us to keep mum about it. She wanted to be the one
who’ll say it to you.” Si Maqui na ang nagsalita this time. “Sorry if we kept it as a secret. Ayaw din naman
namin na malaman mo from us. Dahil gusto namin kayo ni Julie ang haharap sa napasok niyong
situation. I thought you knew already. Lalo na nung ikaw madalas magbantay sa kanya sa condo niya.”

“She never told me, Maq.” Umiiyak na sagot ni Moe.

*****

Julie woke up and was surprised to see that she is once again inside the four corners of a hospital room.
She looked around and saw her friends and also her parents.

“Ma, Pa?” she said weakly.

“Anak, how’re you?” her dad asked. “Maqui told us… everything.” He added.

“Sorry, dad… Sorry, mom.” Was all she could say. Nagsimula ng tumulo ang mga luha niya as her parents
hugged her.

“Hindi ko na ‘to kinakaya… Too much drama!!!” Sef said at saka pa ito lumabas ng kwarto.

“It’s okay anak. We should be mad dahil mali ang ginawa mo lalo pa’t di ka pa tapos sa pag-aaral mo. But
we decided to be happy kasi your baby is a blessing in the family. And because it never came into your
mind that you will give up on the baby. You decided to keep it.” Her mom said. Umiyak na lang si Julie at
saka niya pa niyakap muli ang mga magulang.

“By the way, where is your boyfriend?” his dad asked at saka pa pinunasan ang mga luha niya. Julie
looked at Maqui at saka siya tumingin muli sa mga magulang niya.

“Uhm…”

“Ah eh, tito ano po kasi eh…” si Maqui.

“Where is he? Don’t worry di ako magagalit. I’ll even give him my congratulatory message.”

“Ano po kasi dad… He’s not my boyfriend.” Nagulat ang daddy niya sa sinabi niya.

“What?!”

*****

A month has passed and still, no show pa rin si Elmo. Julie tried texting him pero hindi naman ito
nagrereply. She tried calling him pero hindi niya ito sinasagot. Sobrang miss na niya ang binata. Di na
siya mapalagay dahil hindi rin niya ito nakikita sa building nila. Kahit pa her bestfriends always
accompany her, iba pa rin kung si Elmo. And hindi rin makatulong sa kanya ang palaging pagbisita ni
Frank sa condo niya kapag andun si Maqui. Because she sees another version of Elmo.

*****

“Moe, what’s wrong with you? May problema ba anak?” his mom asked. Napansin kasi ni Pia na hindi
lumalabas si Elmo ng bahay. Lumalabas lang ito kapag papasok ng school pero uuwi rin agad. Hindi na
ito nakikipagkita sa mga kabarkada at maging kay Julie. Napansin rin niyang palagi itong bumubuntong
hininga at halatang halata na problemado.

“It’s nothing, mom.”

“School ba yan or a girl?” hindi naman kumibo si Elmo. “Anak, if it’s about school, then I guess kailangan
mo lang bumawi to catch up. If it’s about a girl, namely, Julie. Anak, follow your heart. You told me that
she makes you happy diba? So why sulk in a corner if the girl that you’ve always dreamed of is right in
front of you? Sige ka. Gusto mo bang may ibang lalaki pa na magpaparealize sayo na hindi mo siya dapat
pinakawalan?”

“Ma, what if you found out na may dinadala siya?”

“You mean she’s pregnant?” Pia asked, shocked.

“What if… Magagalit ka ba?”

“If it’s yours then why would you be mad? It’s a blessing anak. Remember that.”
“Pero paano kung tinago niya? What if she kept it from you. Alam ng mga kaibigan niyo pero ikaw na
lang ang hindi. Would you be mad?”

“Anak, kahit ano pa ang mangyari. Whether she kept it or not, you shouldn’t be mad. Tampo, yes. Pero
never ka dapat magalit. You should understand her. Alam kong kaya mo yan, Moe. And I know that you
love her kaya hindi ka dapat magalit. Face the situation together.” And with that, Pia kissed his cheek
and tapped his back. “If you need anything, just tell me okay?”

“Thanks ma.” Pumasok na si Pia sa loob ng bahay and he stayed by the poolside. Bigla naman siyang may
naisip na paraan para makabawi kay Julie. Nagmadali siyang naglakad papunta sa study ng mommy niya
and knocked on her door. “Ma?” sabi niya at saka sumilip pa.

“Yeah?” her mom looked up from the computer.

“I have a plan…”

*****

“The baby is doing fine. Basta yung mga paalala ko wag mong kakalimutan ha?” her doctor said.

“Yes po. Thanks, doc.” Julie replied.

“Thank you po.” Maqui and Sef said. Lumabas na silang tatlo sa office ng doctor and saw Frank waiting in
the lobby. Pagsakay sa kotse nito…

“Tommy Hilfiger na akiz.” Sef complained.

“Alam mo bakla, simula nung dumating tayo sa hospital, di ka na tumigil kakakain mo. Tas gutom ka pa
din?” sabi ni Maqui.

“Eh bakit ba? Eh sa betchiwariwap pa ng bulate ko lumafang eh.” He answered.

“Where do you guys wanna eat ba?” Frank asked.

“Alam niyo guys, I think I want bulalo.” Sagot ni Julie.

“Ay girl! Masarap bulalo sa Tagaytay. Sure na!” excited na sabi ni Sef. “Nako. Bet ko yan! Go,
Frankenstein. Tagaytay tayiz! Karakaraka!” utos nito kay Frank.

“Ay. Pakalayo, bakla. Wag na.” tutol ni Julie.

“Parang gusto ko din. Sige, tara sa Tagaytay! Minsan lang tayo mag out of town. Lubusin na!” Maqui
said. Hindi na nakatutol pa si Julie dahil siya lang naman ang may ayaw. Soon enough ay nakatulog siya.
Dala na rin ng pagod.

She woke up and was surprised to see not only her friends but also her parents. Pero mas kinagulat niya
dahil andun lahat ng kapatid ni Elmo and even his mom.
“Hi, Julie!” Maxx greeted her and even hugged her. “Missed you!”

“I missed you too, ate.” Niyakap rin siya nina Saab, Arkin at Clara.

“Hi, sweetie. How’re you?” Pia said. “Tagal mong di nagpupunta sa bahay.”

“Haha. Sorry tita. Naging busy lang po.” They all ate lunch sa isang restaurant and were very happy.
Naging close naman ang family niya sa family ni Elmo. Perfect na sana eh. She’s with her family, Elmo’s
family and her bestfriends. Pero wala si Elmo. Wala ang lalaking nagpapasaya sa kanya.

“Ate Julie, let’s eat dessert!” pagyaya sa kanya ni Clara sa dessert bar ng resto. Pumayag naman siya and
habang pumipili sila ni Clara ay nagvibrate ang phone niya.

Moe:

Too much sweets is bad for you. Wag masyadong madami kakainin ha?

“Huh?”

“Why ate?” Clara asked.

“Ha? Nothing, Claws.” Pagbalik sa table nila ay may nakaserve na ang coffee para sa lahat. Again, her
phone vibrated.

Moe:

Bawal ang coffee. Baka di ka makatulog. And bawal sa baby yan.

“Maq, basahin mo. How does he know kung anong mga ginagawa ko?” sabi niya as she showed the
messages to her bestfriend.

“Ma!” sagot naman nito. Hindi na lang niya pinansin ang mga iyon at nagpatuloy sa
pakikipagkwentuhan.

*****

They all spent the night at the hotel and nang magising siya ay wala na si Maqui sa tabi niya. She was
sure that they were sleeping beside each other pero bigla itong nawala which is so unlike her dahil late
ito laging nagigising. Pagtingin niya sa bedside table ay may note.

GO STRAIGHT TO THE LOBBY.

LOVE ALWAYS, MAQ

“Mga pakulo mo, Frencheska.” she said. Nagshower na siya and got dressed bago bumaba sa lobby. She
was busy looking for her bestfriend pero laking gulat niya kung sino ang andun.
“Hi.” Tipid na sabi nito. Hindi siya nakaimik agad kaya nilapitan na siya nito. “I missed you.” He said.

“Why are you here?” she managed to say.

“Like I said, namiss kita.” Sagot nito. Hindi na niya napigilan ang sarili niya sa pag-iyak. Hinampas niya
ang dibdib ng binata pero hindi naman ito pumapalag.

“Nakakainis ka alam mo yun?! Mawawala ka bigla-bigla tapos babalik ka na parang walang nangyari?!
Sasabihin mo na namiss mo ko ganyan? Do you think mapapatawad kita with your ‘I miss you’?!”

“Kaya nga I’m here eh. Babawi ako sayo.”

“San ka ba kasi nagpunta? Bakit di ka nagpaparamdam? I texted you everyday, di ka nagrereply. Siguro
may babae ka na no?! Ano? Umamin ka, Elmo! Uma…” hindi na niya natuloy ang sasabihin niya dahil
hinalikan na siya ni Elmo. It was a kiss filled with longing and passion. Halatang namiss nga siya ng
binata. Hindi nanaman siya nakakibo after they break their kiss.

“You are really talkative, Ms. Julie Anne San Jose. Siguro lagi kang pinapagalitan ng profs mo no?” he
teased.

“Ewan ko sayo. Feeling mo bati na tayo sa ganyan mo?!” iritang sabi pa rin ni Julie. “Kwento mo sa
pagong!” dagdag pa niya. Natawa na lang si Elmo at hinalikan siya muli.

“Ilang kiss ba gusto mo for you to forgive me?” he asked, smiling. Julie blushed at saka na lang siya
niyakap nito.

“Wag mo na kong iiwan ulit ha?” Julie said against his chest. He returned the hug and squeezed her
tight.

“Hindi na po. Promise.” He replied as he kissed the top of her head. “Namiss mo ko?” he asked. He felt
Julie nod at saka ito tumingala to look at him.

“Sobra.” Sabi niya.

*****

They spent the whole day together. Talking and catching up.

“Moe…” she started. Nasa overlooking na sila nun and waiting for the sunset. She’s been thinking of a
way kung paano at kung kailan niya sasabihin kay Elmo ang tungkol sa pagbubuntis niya. And she
thought that this would be that day. The day where she will tell him na magiging daddy na siya.

“Hm?”

“What if sa ilang beses na may nangyari sa atin, uhm.. May nabuo?” she asked. She looked at him and
waited for his reply. Halatang nagulat si Elmo sa tanong niya. Hindi niya alam kung positive ba yun or
negative. Basta sure siyang nagulat ito. She decided to just let it drop nang wala pa ring makuhang sagot
mula dito. Pero maya-maya ay nakita niyang ngumiti ito. Kasabay ng paglubog ng araw ay siya namang
pagliwanag ng mukha ng binata. He looked at her and held her hand.

“I’ll be the luckiest guy on Earth…”

CHAPTER 15

“Nakabawi na ba?” Maqui asked. She decided to meet up with her dahil ngayon lang ang free day niya
from work.

“Yeah. Bawing-bawi, Maq.” She replied. Napangiti naman siya when she remembered what happened in
Tagaytay. Lahat ng sweet things na ginawa ni Elmo for her, all the kisses they shared and the hugs. Basta
lahat yun, sigurado siyang napasaya siya. Even the baby inside her.

“Halata nga sayo eh. I mean. Look at you! Blooming ka!!” Maqui said at saka pa siya nginitian nito.

“Haha. I’m just happy that finally bumalik na siya.”

“Teka nga. So ano bang ginawa niyo sa Tagaytay after we left? I mean, nasabi mo na ba sa kanya about
your baby?” Maqui asked.

“Uhm. I asked him kung anong mafifeel niya kung may nabuo dahil sa mga nangyari sa amin.”

“What did he say?” inalala ulit ni Julie ang nangyari nun. She was smiling the whole time habang si
Maqui naman ay naghihintay sa sagot niya.

FLASHBACK

“Moe…” she started. Nasa overlooking na sila nun and waiting for the sunset. She’s been thinking of a
way kung paano at kung kailan niya sasabihin kay Elmo ang tungkol sa pagbubuntis niya. And she
thought that this would be that day. The day where she will tell him na magiging daddy na siya.

“Hm?”

“What if sa ilang beses na may nangyari sa atin, uhm.. May nabuo?” she asked. She looked at him and
waited for his reply. Halatang nagulat si Elmo sa tanong niya. Hindi niya alam kung positive ba yun or
negative. Basta sure siyang nagulat ito. She decided to just let it drop nang wala pa ring makuhang
sagot mula dito. Pero maya-maya ay nakita niyang ngumiti ito. Kasabay ng paglubog ng araw ay siya
namang pagliwanag ng mukha ng binata. He looked at her and held her hand.

“I’ll be the luckiest guy on Earth…”

“Hoy, Julie Anne! Ano na?” inip na tanong ni Maqui.

“He said that he’ll be the luckiest guy on earth.” Nakangiting sabi niya.

“Yiiiiiiii! Seryoso? As in sinabi niya talaga yun?! Oh my gosh. Edi ikaw na teh! Ikaw na mahaba ang hair.
Kinabog si Rapunzel.” Kinikilig na sabi ni Maqui.

“Hahaha. Ewan ko sayo, Maqui. Rapunzel ka diyan? Adik ka.” She said.

“So ano na, Jules? Love mo na?”

“Hahaha. Maqui, ano bang tanong yan?” sagot naman niya at saka pa tumawa.

“Eh bakit ka kinikilig diyan? Ngiti mo hanggang bumbunan nanaman!” pang-aasar ni Maqui sa kanya.

“Ewan ko sayo!” They were both laughing when her phone rang. “Wait lang ha.” Sabi niya as she
answers it.

“Hello?” she said. Nakangiti siya kasi kilala na niya agad kung sino ang caller niya.

“Where are you?” he asked.

“Coffee shop. I’m with Maq.”

“Coffee nanaman? Di ka nanaman makakatulog niyan.” He said sweetly.

“Haha. No po. Si Maqui lang nagcocoffee. Hahaha.”

“Good.”

“San ka?” she asked him. Matagal bago nakasagot si Elmo kaya tinanong niya ito ulit. “Moe, where are
you?” she asked again.

“Look outside.” Was the only thing he said. Napalingon naman siya sa labas ng coffee shop at napangiti
siya. Outside the said shop was Elmo. With his phone on his right hand and balloons on his left hand. He
shrugged and mouthed an “I miss you” at saka pa ngumiti.

“Hay jusko! Julieta, kiligin ka naman kahit konti! Jusko nangangawit na panga ko dito.” Maqui said.

“Wag kang magulo Maqui. Kinikilig na ko dito eh.” Sabi naman niya.

“Labas na dun! Jusko. Ang mga langgam!” natatawang sabi pa ni Maqui as she pushed Julie towards the
exit.

*****

He surprised her by showing up at her favorite hangout place with balloons in hand. Bigla niya kasi itong
namiss kahit pa magkasama lang sila nung isang gabi.
“Hey.” He said paglabas nito.

“Ano namang pakulo yan?” she asked him.

“Wala naman. Namiss kita eh.” Sagot niya.

“Tsss. Kakakita lang natin nung isang gabi eh.”

“Yeah. That was what? 36 hours ago? Hahaha.”

“Whatever. Clingy ka na alam mo yun?”

“Clingy is my middle name. Hahaha.” He replied as he hugged her. “Oh.” Sabi niya as he handed her the
balloons.

“So mukha akong bata ganyan?”

“Baby naman kita ah. Something wrong with that?” he asked. Inirapan na lang siya ni Julie at hinampas
ang balloons sa kanya.

“Che!”

“Hahahaha. Kinilig ka. Aminin mo.” He teased her.

“Ewan ko sayo. Samahan mo na nga lang ako. Since you’re here naman and mukhang di na ko
sasamahan ni Maqui. Ikaw na lang diba?”

“Ha? San tayo pupunta?” he asked, curiously.

“Basta. Ako naman may surprise sa iyo.” She said. Sumakay na sila sa kotse and tinuro niya kung saan
sila pupunta na ikinagulat naman ni Moe.

“Ob-gyne?” Elmo asked pagkapark nila sa labas ng clinic.

“Yeah. Diba when we were in Tagaytay I asked you what will you feel if may nabuo? You told me you’d
be the luckiest guy. Kaya here we are. Let’s find out.” And she got out of the car na halata mong excited
siya.

*****

“Congrats, Julie! Your babies are healthy. Do you hear their heartbeat?” the doctor asked.

“Ha? Wait doc. Babies?” pagtataka ni Elmo.

“Yes. You’re having twins, Mr. Magalona. See?” at tinuro pa ng doctor ang monitor ng ultrasound
machine.
“Uhm. Doc anong gender?” Julie asked feeling excited dahil dalawa ang baby sa loob niya.

“I’m very happy to say na it’s a boy and a girl.” Nakangiting sabi ng doctor. Elmo’s heart began beating
faster. Bigla siyang nangingiti lalo na when he heard the heartbeat of his babies. Para siyang nasa langit.
Napahawak siya sa kamay ni Julie and napaiyak.

“We’re having twins, baby. Twins!” he cried. Hinalikan niya sa noo si Julie na nakangiti lang sa kanya.
“Sabi ko na nga ba eh. Nakadami ka kasi saken kaya ayan. Dalawa agad baby natin.” He teased her.
Hinampas naman siya ni Julie at saka piningot ang ilong.

“Proud daddy?” the doctor asked. “You should be. Kasi healthy ang babies niyo. Good job, Julie. Sinunod
mo talaga lahat ng bilin ko.”

“Thanks, doc.”

“Congrats ulit ha?” the doctor said. “I’m sure ang swerte swerte ng mga baby niyo because you two look
so loving.” Nginitian naman siya ng dalawa at saka nagpasalamat.

“Uhm. Doc, can I record my babies’ heartbeat?” he asked the doctor. Tumango naman ito at dali dali
niyang kinuha ang phone niya to record the most unique beat he has ever heard in his life. His babies’
heartbeat.

*****

“You happy?” Julie asked him habang naglalakad na sila pabalik sa parking lot. Hinawakan niya ng
mahigpit ang kamay ng dalaga and kissed the back of her hand.

“Sobra. Sabi ko na nga ba eh. I am the luckiest guy on earth.” He said. “At dahil diyan, let’s go have
dinner.”

“Uhm, pwedeng pass muna? May pupuntahan pa tayong isa eh.” She said.

“Ha? Saan nanaman?”

“Basta! Pakadaming tanong eh.” And they both went inside his car. “Drive, Moe. Dali!”

“San ba kasi tayo pupunta?”

“Basta nga. Kulit mo, alam mo yun?” she said as she pinched his cheek.

“Eh kasi naman Julie eh. Di pa nga nagsisink in sa akin that we’re having twins, tas may surprise ka
nanaman?”

“Hahaha. Masanay ka na daddy. Tara na dali.” Malambing na sabi nito. Napangiti naman si Elmo when
he heard her call him daddy. Feeling niya talaga lahat na ng blessings nasa kanya na. He said a mental
‘thank you’ to God dahil lahat ng hinihiling niya, ay nabibigay. “Turn right, Moe.” Julie said and soon,
they’ve entered an exclusive village. Bigla namang napalitan ang excitement ni Elmo ng kaba.
Pagbaba ng kotse ay agad napatingin si Elmo sa malaking bahay.

“Uhm Jules, kaninong bahay ‘to?”

“Basta. Bakit ba tanong ka nang tanong?” sabi niya.

“Eh kasi it’s my first time to be here. Kinakabahan talaga ako sayo eh.” Sagot niya.

“Basta. Trust me okay? Wala namang kakain sayo dito.” Malambing na sabi niya at saka pa nagnakaw ng
halik sa labi ni Elmo. “Tara na sa loob.” She said afterwards.

They entered the gate and was greeted by a house helper.

“Good evening, Miss Julie.” Bati nito.

“Good evening po, manang!” bati niya rin dito.

“Infairness, hija. Siya ba kinukwento ng mama mo?” tanong nito at saka tumingin pa kay Elmo.

“Manang naman eh. Si mama talaga kung ano anong kinukwento. Hahaha. Opo siya nga.”

“Gwapo ha? Haha.” And manang even smiled at him. Nginitian rin naman siya ni Elmo. Nang makapasok
na sila sa loob ng bahay ay sakto namang nakita ni Elmo ang older version ni Julie. Hindi naman siya
nagkamali ng hinala when Julie ran to her and hugged the old woman.

“Mama! I’m hooome!” she said.

“Hi anak.” Bati naman nito and she even looked at Elmo who was standing at the end of the staircase.

“Good evening po, ma’am.” He greeted.

“Good evening, hijo.” She greeted him back with a smile. Sunod namang bumaba ay lalaki that looks
perfect to be his dad.

“Pa!” si Julie sabay halik sa pisngi ng ama.

“Uhm. G-goodevening po, s-sir.” Bati niya rito. The old man walked near him and shook his hand.

“Glad I finally met you hijo.” Sabi naman nito. “So. You and my daughter…”

“Uhm…”

“You got her pregnant eh? Pananagutan mo ba ang anak ko?” Julie’s dad was smiling pero ang dibdib ni
Elmo ay walang tigil sa pagkabog.

“Yes, sir. I’m willing to take responsibility po.”

“Good. Atleast alam ko diba? And by that you mean, kayo na?” lumingon si Elmo kay Julie at nakita
niyang nanlaki ang mga mata nito.

“Uhm. Y-yes po. K-kami na po.” Kinakabahang sagot niya. Napangiti naman lalo ang papa ni Julie and
even hugged him.

“Good. Good.” Was all he said.

The night went out smoothly. Nagkasundo naman si Elmo and Julie’s dad dahil parehas sila ng mga hilig
and he found Elmo a smart guy.

******

“He’s a fine man, anak. You’re in good hands.” His dad said.

“Thanks, dad.” Sabi ni Julie.

“Alis na po kami, sir.” Paalam ni Elmo.

“Tito na lang hijo.”

“Ah. Hehe. Sige po. We’ll go ahead tito. Thank you po.” At umalis na nga sila sa bahay ng mga San Jose.

“You did great naman ah. Bakit ka kinabahan nung dumating tayo?” Julie asked while they’re on their
way back to their condo building.

“Wala. Eh kasi I thought your dad would be mad. And I wasn’t expecting na I’ll meet your parents
today.”

“Hahaha. Kaya nga surprise eh. But I’m proud of you. Papa likes you. And syempre si mama din. Jusko.
Siya pa nga nagkakalat sa bahay that we’re having a baby na eh.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Hahaha. Thank God talaga.” Nasabi niya. “Pero uhm, Jules?”

“Yeah?”

“Magagalit ka ba if malaman mong, alam ko na you’re pregnant even before you asked me in Tagaytay?”

“Magagalit? No. Why? Alam mo na ba talaga?” she asked. Elmo took a deep breath before he answered
her.

“Yeah. The time you were at the hospital. Ako nagdala sayo nun. Remember? We were supposed to go
to church nun but then, hinimatay ka. The doctor told me about your pregnancy. And that’s the reason
why I didn’t show up for a month. Not that I can’t take responsibility. Pero aaminin ko, Julie. Nagtampo
ako sayo. Kasi I felt deprived eh. Frank knew about it pero ako na daddy ng baby natin, di ko man lang
alam…” Julie kissed his tears away at saka pa siya niyakap.
“I’m sorry for not telling you, Moe. Naunahan lang ako ng takot na baka di mo matanggap yung baby.
And nagtampo din ako kasi you weren’t here when I needed you most.”

“Kaya nga I came back diba? I can’t just leave you and our babies. Nag-isip lang ako. Inisip ko if I’ll be
ready to be a dad na or hindi pa kasi diba you told me that I’m immature? And I don’t want my babies to
have an immature dad kaya yun. I had to spend time away. To reflect.”

“Moe. Kahit ano ka pa, you will always be a good father. Tandaan mo yan. Tignan mo nga, di mo pa alam
dati na buntis ako kung makaasikaso ka saken wagas. What more kung may baby na tayo diba?”
nakangiting sabi ni Julie. Elmo hugged her tight and kissed her hair.

*****

Nasa condo na sila ni Elmo nun and were eating ice cream.

“Hm. Doc said na it’ll be a boy and a girl diba?” Elmo asked out of the blue.

“Yeah. Why?”

“I was just thinking kung ano bang magandang ipangalan sa kanila.” Natawa naman si Julie dahil
naramdaman niya ang excitement sa boses nito.

“Haha. Osige nga. Ano bang naiisip mong names?”

“What if, Elmo Jr. yung boy then yung girl, Julia?”

“Wow. Pinag-isipan ha.”

“Eh wala pa kasi akong maisip na unique names eh. Kaya yun na lang muna.”

“Ayoko. Gusto ko ikaw lang Elmo sa buhay ko. Hahaha.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Haha. Okay fine. Eh ikaw? What do you have in mind ba?”

“I’m thinking… What if Ethan Jacob for the boy and Eloise Jane for the girl.” Nakangiting sabi ni Julie as
she looked at Elmo’s face.

“Hm. Sabi ko nga mas maganda yung naisip mo eh. Hahaha.” Sagot ni Elmo at saka niya niyakap ng
mahigpit si Julie.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!”

“Wait lang baby ha. Baka andyan na yung pinadeliver natin.” Elmo said as he stood up to open the door.

*****

“Hi, Moe.” Laking gulat ni Elmo nang makita si Lauren. “Missed me?” she asked.
“What are you doing here?!” iritang sabi niya.

“Wala namiss lang kita. Di mo ba ko namiss?” she asked as she tried to hug him. Elmo took her arms
away from his body and pushed her away. “Moe, honey ano ba?”

“Lo, wala na tayo okay? Please will you just leave me alone?”

“Baby? Yan na ba yung pinadeliver? What’s taking you so long?” nagulat si Elmo nang lumabas si Julie sa
condo niya. “Oh. Hi, Lauren!” masayang bati nito. Elmo was surprised that Julie and Lauren know each
other.

“Hi, Japs! Uhm.” gulat na sabi ni Lauren. “You guys know each other?” tanong pa niya.

“Uhm. Julie go inside.” Elmo said.

“Wait, wait. Julie?! JULIE?!” Lauren started making a scene. “Siya yung girl na binanggit mo when we…
when we… Oh my gosh!”

“Lo pwede ba. Don’t make a scene here. Mahiya ka naman sa mga kapitbahay namin.” Elmo warned her.

“Siya ba yun Elmo? Yung pinalit mo saken? I trusted you, Japs. I told you everything pero you betrayed
me!” sabi pa niya at saka dinuro-duro si Julie.

“I-I didn’t know, Lauren. I had no idea.” Naiiyak na sabi ni Julie.

“Julie, pasok ka na. Makakasama sa baby…”

“Baby?! So you got her pregnant. Kaya ba mas pinili mo siya? Ha Elmo?!”

“Lauren will you shut up!” galit na sabi ni Elmo. “Alam mo kung bakit si Julie? Kasi she makes me happy.
She loved me for who I am and she is a good influence to me. Kaya pwede ba? LEAVE. US. ALONE.”

“Wait nga, Elmo. So you mean habang gumagawa ka ng sweet things sa akin, you have a girlfriend na
naghihintay? So you mean pinagsasabay mo kami ganun?!” si Julie naman ang nagsasalita ngayon. Elmo
looked at her na halatang gulat.

“What?! No! Matagal na kaming wala ni Lauren.”

“Eh ano to? Honey honey pang nalalaman tas wala? Ano ba talaga Elmo?!”

“Wala na kami okay? Matagal na. Nung may nangyari sa atin, wala na kami nun. Maniwala ka naman
saken oh.” Hindi na alam ni Elmo ang gagawin dahil parehas nang nagsasalita ng kung ano ano sina Julie
at Lauren.

“Tell me Elmo, wala lang ba sayo lahat ng nangyari between us?” Julie asked him na umiiyak.

“Elmo pwede ba just clear this mess you made?!” si Lauren.

“Lauren pwede bang layuan mo na kami? You want me to clear this mess? Fine! I admit. Mahal ko si
Julie. Mahal na mahal!”

“What?!” gulat na tanong ng dalawa.

“No…” Lauren ran away and cried. Feeling niya nadurog ang puso niya when she heard him say it.

“A-ano? Ahh!” nagulat si Elmo when he heard Julie scream. Pagtingin niya ay nakahiga na si Julie sa
floor. At mas kinagulat niya when he saw blood sa legs ng dalaga.

CHAPTER 16

“Doc, how is she?” alalang tanong ni Elmo paglabas ng doctor.

“She’s doing fine. Tulog na siya.”

“And the baby?”

“Your babies are fine, Elmo. Wag ka na mag-alala. Okay na ang mag-iina mo.” And the doctor patted his
back at saka na ito umalis. Pumasok na si Elmo sa kwarto ni Julie and saw her fast asleep. Umupo siya sa
tabi ng kama nito and held her hand at saka pa ito hinalikan.

“Julie. Baby, wake up.” Malambing na sabi niya. “I’m sorry if this had to happen. Baby, sorry talaga.”
Nagulat naman siya when he heard a knock. He opened it and saw Lauren. “What are you doing here?
Diba sabi ko sayong layuan mo kami? Look at what you did to her?! You almost killed my babies!” galit
na galit na siya.

“I-I just want to apologize, Elmo…” sabi naman ni Lauren.

“I don’t need your apology, Lauren. It’s a good thing that my family is safe. Pero kung may nangyari
talagang masama sa mag-iina ko. I swear to God, makakapatay ako ng tao.” Sabi ni Elmo. “Now please.
Leave.” He said. Umalis naman na si Lauren na umiiyak because of what Elmo said. Masakit oo pero
alam niyang kasalanan niya iyon. Hindi naman magkakaganun ang kalagayan ni Julie kung hindi siya nag-
eskandalo.

*****

“W-where’s Maqui?” nanghihinang sabi ni Julie pagkapasok ni Elmo sa kwarto. He rushed to her side
and caressed her head.

“H-how’re you baby?” nag-aalalang sabi niya.

“Where’s M-Maqui… Where is she?” naiiyak na sabi ni Julie. “How did I get here?”

“Ako nagdala sayo dito, baby.”

“I don’t want you here. I need Maqui…” sabi niya.

“Baby, sorry. Sorry if di ko sinabi sayo about her. Naisip ko kasing wala naman na kami, so di ko na
kailangan sabihin pa yun. Besides, ikaw na ang mahalaga sa akin ngayon. You and our twins…” umiiyak
na sabi ni Elmo.

“I don’t need your explanations. Just please. Call Maqui and leave me alone. Please, Moe, I’m begging
you.” Umiiyak na sabi ni Julie. Wala naman ng nagawa si Elmo kundi ang sundin ang sinabi niya. Masakit
man pero kailangan niyang gawin yun. Para kay Julie. Para sa mga anak niya.

So he called up Maqui. Bago dumating ang mga ito, he grabbed that chance para sabihin kay Julie ang
tunay niyang nararamdaman para sa dalaga.

“Hmm, Jules. About last night. About sa nararamdaman ko for you. A-ano, t-totoo.”

“I will never ever listen to you, Elmo. Wala akong paki sa nararamdaman mo sakin. Kaya please sa labas
ka na lang mag-antay kina Maqui at iwan mo ko mag-isa dito. Utang na loob.” Matigas na sabi ni Julie ng
hindi man lang tumitingin sa binata.

“Julie, please. Listen to me naman. Please.”

“Bingi ka ba ha, Elmo? Di mo ba narinig yung sinabi ko? I said get out.” Inis pero kalmadong sabi ni Julie.

“Please, Julie. Wag mong ilalayo yung mga anak natin sakin. Susundin ko yung gusto mong lumabas ako,
pero wag mo naman sana akong alisin sa buhay mo at sa buhay ng magiging anak natin. Please, Julie.”

Ipinikit na lamang ni Julie ang kanyang mata para pigilan ang luha ng gustong gusto ng tumulo sa
kanyang mga mata. When Elmo didn’t get any answer from her, nilapitan niya ito and he kissed her on
her forehead and whispered, “I’m sorry. Let me fix this. I love you, Julie and our babies.”

Pagtalikod naman ni Elmo, siya namang bukas ng mata ni Julie at sabay tulo ng mga luha nitong kanina
pang gusto umagos sa kanyang mga mata. “Sorry, Elmo. Pero masakit na pinagmukha mo akong tanga.
Alam ko wala kang kasalanan. Pero nagagalit lang ako sa sarili ko kasi alam kong mahal kita.”

*****

“Hi, dear.” Saktong pagdilat ni Julie ay nakita nga niya ang kanyang dalawang bestfriends.

“Julieta, anyare ba? Hobby mo ba girl ang tumambay ditey sa hospital? Aba napapadalas ha? Nako. Di pa
naman masarap food ditey. Eww.”

Natawa naman si Julie at sabay sabi ng, “Namiss ko kayong dalawa.” She smiled weakly.

“Onga naman Ja, what happened? Tinawagan ako ni Elmo, sabi niya galit ka daw sa kanya, at pagdating
namin andon siya sa labas nakaupo, nagmumukmok. Sabi niya, uuwi na daw muna siya sa Antipolo.”
Maqui explained.
“Tsaka na lang natin pag-usapan, Maq. Pwede bang pag lumabas ako dito, sa bahay niyo na lang muna
ako ihatid?” Paglalambing ni Julie sa mga kaibigan.

“Hay nako, Julie Anne. Ano pa nga ba? If that’s what you want. Oh here, may dala kaming fruits for you
and our inaanaks. Kain ka muna.” At pinagbalat nga ni Sef si Julie ng oranges at nagkwentuhan sila ng
kung anu-ano.

*****

“Ma, si Ate Ja andito po.” Joanna shouted when she saw her Ate na papasok ng bahay nila kasama sina
Maqui and Sef.

“Hi, Joanna.” She smiled to her sister. “I miss you.” And kissed her.

“Why are you here, Ate? How’s your babies? Asan si Kuya Elmo?” Sunud-sunod na tanong nito.

“Nakakatamad na kasi sa condo ko, kaya ayun dito muna ako magstay.” She said.

“Ikaw Joanna, ang dami mong tanong sa Ate mo. Hi, Jules.” Her mom greeted her and kissed her.

“Maqui and Sef, upo muna kayo.Kukuha lang ako ng merienda niyo.” Sabi ng mama ni Julie.

“Ay, wititit na po, Tita. Gogorabells na po ang beauty namin. Para na rin po makapagpahinga muna si
Julieta.” Sef said.

“Ha? Ano raw, Maqui? Tanong ng mama niJa.

“Ah eh, Tita sabi po nitong si Sef, mauna na po kami. Para po makapagpahinga na si Julie.” Natatawang
sabi ni Maq.

“Nako, eto talagang si Sef kinakausap pa si Mama ng beki. Waley alam si mudrakels sa mga ganunchi
mong words, girl.” Singit naman ni Julie at natawa naman silang lahat.

“Nako sige na, Jules. Gotta go now. Rest well dear. Sige po Tita, una na po kami. Balik na lang po kami
ulit para bisitahin si Julie. Salamat po.” Pagpapaalam ni Maqui sa mag-ina.

*****

Julie’s reading a book when her mom knocked.

“Hi, anak.”

“Hi, Ma. Pasok po kayo.”

Tumabi naman ang mama niya sa kanya. At nagsalita ito, “Anak, may problema ba kayo ni Elmo kaya ka
andito sa amin ngayon?” Diretsong tanong sa kanya ng mama niya.
“Opo, Ma. Pero okay lang po ako. Nagkaroon lang po kami ng misunderstanding. Maaayos naman po
siguro namin ito.” Ayaw niya magkwento sa Mama niya dahil alam niyang mag-aalala na lamang ang
mga ito. Kaya mas minabuti na lamang niya magsinungaling. Susubukan na lang niyang maging maayos
ang lahat sa tamang panahon.

“Sige na, anak. Magpahinga ka na. Bawal sayo ang magpuyat.” Paalala ng mama niya sa kanya.

“Opo Ma. Ma, thank you po. Mahal na mahal ko po kayo nila Papa.”

“Mahal na mahal ka rin namin, Japs. Kaya pag kailangan mo kami, andito lang kami para sayo, anak.
Goodnight.” Kinumutan niya ang anak at hinalikan sa noo.

*****

1:43 am, Julie’s phone rang.

Elmo calling.

Nagdadalawang-isip si Julie kung sasagutin niya ba ito o hindi. She was supposed to answer it, but it
suddenly stopped. Kaya hinayaan na lang niya ulit. Tumunog ito ulit, it was a text message.

Elmo:

Hi, Julie. Sorry if I keep on calling you at this time. I can’t sleep, really. Iniisip kita and our babies.
Iniisip ko kung napatawad mo na ba ako at kung kailan mo kaya ako balak kausapin. I’ll do my best to
win you back and to prove to you that I really do love you. Sorry again. And good night, baby. I love
you, Mommy and Ethan and Eloise.

After she read that text message, she was teary eyed. She misses Elmo. Ang pagiging sweet, thoughtful
and maalaga nito sa kanya. But she has to do this para na rin maliwanagan talaga siya sa tunay niyang
nararamdaman. Oo, mahal niya si Elmo, but she is just afraid if she still trust him after what happened.

*****

Nagising si Julie sa pagbukas ng kurtina sa kanyang kwarto.

“Jeg naman ehhh. Aga aga pa! Late na ko nakatulog eh.”

“Julieta, di ka pwedeng mapuyat, bakit ka nagpuyat ateng? Kung andito lang si Magalona, lagot ka don.
Hay nako.”

“Yon na nga eh, napuyat ako because of him.”

“Why dear? What happened?” Maqui asked.

“He was calling me at almost 2am. Sasagutin ko sana kaya lang namatay naman. Then bigla siyang
nagtext.” Kwento ni Julie.
“Ansabe ni Elmokong?”

“Basta yon na yon. Andon yung phone ko, basahin niyo na lang. Tapos I’ll sleep again. Kawawa naman
ang babies ko.” The truth is tinatamad talaga siya kumilos dahil antok pa siya.

“Hay nako, Julieta. Tara na daliii! Bumaba na tayo. Masarap yung breakfast! Tommy Hilfiger na ko girl.”
Habang hinihila niya ang kumot nito.

“Cadayona naman ehhh. Maqui, pigilan mo nga siya.”

“San Jose, di pwede.Kailangan mong magbreakfast.” Maqui said.

“Ano ba. Pwede namang iakyat na lang dito?”

“Julie, ang brat mo. Umuwi ka lang rito ganyan ka na. Tsaka di ba magkukwento ka pa samin.”

“Oo na po. Wait for me downstairs, mag-aayos lang ako ng sarili ko.”

“Okay girlfriend!”

*****

Flashback:

Maagang pumunta si Elmo kina Julie, dahil alam niyang nagjajogging ang papa nito. Balak niyang
sabayan at magpaliwanag na rin. Nalaman niya kasing don muli nakatira si Julie from Sef.

Moe waited for Julie’s dad sa labas ng bahay nila. Nagulat naman ang papa nitong makita siya.

“Good morning po, Tito.” He greeted him.

“Good morning rin, Elmo. Kung si Julie ang pinunta mo rito, ayaw ka pa raw niya makausap.Yon ang sabi
sakin ng mama niya.” Jonathan said.

“Uhm. Actually tito ikaw po talaga gusto kong makausap.” Nagtaka naman si Jonathan pero he saw how
serious Elmo was kaya niyaya niya itong maglakad na lamang sila.

5 minutes passed and still, Elmo kept quiet.

“Elmo, ano bang nangyari?” si Jonathan na ang nag-umpisa ng conversation.

“It was a peaceful night tito. Naghihintay lang po kami ni Julie na dumating yung pinadeliver naming
food. We were even thinking of names for the twins…” napangiti naman si Elmo nang maalala niya yung
usapan nila ni Julie nun.

“Yeah. She told me about it. Ethan Jacob and Eloise Jane? I like it. Bagay sa mga apo ko.” Julie’s dad said.
“Oo nga po. She was the one who thought of their names. And then, bigla pong may kumatok. We
thought it’s the delivery guy pero to my surprise po, it was my ex girlfriend…”

“Ex-girlfriend you say?” tanong nito. They reached the park and Jonathan motioned for them to sit at
one of the benches.

“Yes tito. Ex ko po yun. She started hugging me pero I told her to leave kasi po I’m with Julie already.
Pero mapilit siya. Until Julie came out and then nalaman ko pong they knew each other and yun po.
Pareho na po silang nagagalit. I didn’t even had the chance to explain. I had to shut them up kaya po
sinabi ko kay Lauren yung totoo. That I have feelings for Julie and that Julie is pregnant.”

“Eh diba, kayo naman na talaga?” nagtatakang tanong ni Jonathan.

“Pinalabas lang po namin na kami na dahil ayaw po naming magalit kayo, tito. Pero totoo pong mahal
ko si Julie.” Tumango na lang si Jonathan at saka pa hinintay ang susunod na sasabihin ni Elmo. “ I really
don’t know why Julie became mad at me. Tito, mahal na mahal ko po ang anak niyo and I can’t live
without her…” Elmo’s tears began to fall pero hinayaan niya lang. Nasasaktan rin kasi siya dahil kung
kailan naman masaya na sila ni Julie, tsaka pa magiging ganun ang sitwasyon nila. Jonathan placed his
arm over Elmo’s shoulder at saka ito tinapik pa.

“Hijo, I understand you. Nakikita ko namang sincere ka sa mga sinabi mo and I can see how much you
love my daughter. Elmo, anak. Alam kong maaayos niyo rin ito ni Julie. Pero let’s give her some time.
Okay? May tiwala naman ako sayo eh. Alam kong mahihintay mo ang anak ko.”

“Pero tito, gusto ko pong bumawi sa kanya. Please tito. Hayaan niyo pong makabawi ako sa anak niyo…”
tumango ulit si Jonathan at saka naman niya nginitian si Elmo.

End of flashback

“Wow! Daming food ah.” Masiglang sabi ni Julie pagkakita sa mga nakahain sa mesa. It was all her
favorite. Bigla naman siyang napangiti nang may maalala siya. “Best breakfast ever.” She thought.

“Naman girl! Pero sana yung nginingiti mo over there, eh inuupo mo na lang edi sana nakalafang na tayiz
ditey?! Baka sakaling natuwa pa akiz sayo.” pagrereklamo ni Sef.

“Tss. Alam mo, bakla puro ka reklamo. Yung totoo? Patay gutom?” banat ni Maqui sa kanya.

“Charotera ka, Marie ha. Lalamig na kasi yung food.” Dahilan naman nito.

“Oh. Tama na away diyan. Kain na kayo.” Sabi ng mama ni Julie.

“Kayo po, Ma? Why don’t you join us for breakfast?” pagyaya naman ni Julie kay Marivic.

“Okay na anak. Tapos na kaming kumain nila papa mo.” Nakangiting sabi ni Marivic. “Tsaka special yan
para sayo eh.” Dagdag pa nito.

“Haha. Daming alam ni mama.” She said at saka na nga siya umupo to join her bestfriends.
“Ay bakla, naalala ko. Nakakain na ko ng ganito eh.” Maqui said nang sumubo ng pancakes.

“Malamang, Marie. Di ka naman taga bundok ng Tralala diba? So sureness ever akiz na nakakain ka na
niyan.” Pambabara ni Sef sa kanya.

“Gaga! What I mean is nakakain na ko ng ganito. As in same menu. Lahat ng andito, yun din nakahain
nun.” Sabi nito sabay tingin kay Julie.

“Ay! Gets na kita girl. As in super duper major bigtime gets na kita. Hahahaha.” Sabi naman ni Sef.

“Odiba? Nakwento ko na sayo yun, bakla eh. Shunga ka lang talaga.”

“Aba, sorry ever naman diba? Medyo shumoshonders na kasi tayiz eh. Kakaimbyerna din mga
happenings.”

“Hahaha, Pero aminin mo bakla, nung kinwento ko sayo yun biglang boto ka sa kanya.”

“Ay opkors golpkors! Pogi points yun ever!”

“Haha. Yun nga lang ewan ko kung tumalab ba sa isa diyan yung effort nun.” Patuloy sa pagpaparinig si
Maqui habang si Julie naman ay nagbibingi-bingihan na lamang. Sakto naman at nagvibrate ang phone ni
Julie at nag-unahan naman ang tatlo sa pagkuha nito.

“Hoy! Phone ko kaya yan!” Julie said nang itakbo na ito nina Maqui at Sef sa garden nila.

“Sorry ka na lang jontis. Bawalness kang maging si road runner! Hahahahaha.” Pang-aasar ni Sef.
Nagmadali na silang buksan ang message dahil kilala na nila kung sino ang sender nun.

Moe:

Good morning, mommy! Miss na ni daddy ang babies niya. Especially you, baby. I miss you. So much.
Usap na tayo please? Bati na tayo. Hope you enjoyed the food I prepared. I love you.

Pagkabasa naman nilang dalawa ay naghampasan na sila at nagsabunutan.

“Baklaaaaa! Imba si Magalona! Sure na!” Kinikilig na sabi ni Maqui.

“Girl, nakakalurkey itey!!! Ay jusmiyo marimar! Si Elmokong bumabanat!”

“Hoy kayong dalawa. Akin na nga yang phone ko.” Sabi ni Julie habang nakapamewang pa ito sa mga
kaibigan.

“Oh ayan! Yiiiiiheeeeee! Amasabe naman ever so bongga ng lalaking yan. Ay grabeeee!” kinikilig na sabi
ni Sef. Julie read the message and she smiled. Little by little, nababawasan na ang galit sa puso niya. She
misses him as well lalo na ang mga paglalambing nito.
“Ikaw talaga. Lahat na lang kakuntsaba mo.” Sabi niya sa sarili. She didn’t reply to his text at binulsa na
lang ang phone niya. Pero wala pa man siya sa loob ng bahay ay nagvibrate nanaman ito.

Moe:

Don’t stress yourself too much okay? I miss you. I love you, baby.

“Ano na, Julieta? Tengga na lang tayo diyan?” Sef asked nang mapansin si Julie na nakatayo pa rin sa
may entrance sa garden. “Yung ngiti mo hanggang bumbunan nanaman girl ha.” Dagdag pa nito.

“Tss. Ewan ko sayo Sef.”

“Ts. Kinikilig siya. Sure na!” pang-aasar naman ni Maqui.

“Che!” was the only thing she said.

*****

“Where are we going ba?” she asked. Nagulat na lang kasi siya nang yayain siya ni Maqui and Sef na
mag-out of town.

“Basta. Wag ka ngang matanong diyan.” Sabi ni Maqui.

“Eh kasi naman eh. Imbes na nagpapahinga ako, I’m here sitting inside your car and I don’t even know
kung saan tayo pupunta.” Reklamo niya.

“Basta nga! Paulit-ulit tayo ditey? Tali ko kaya to Marie. Tas ilagay ko sa compartment.” Sabi ni Sef.

“Baliw.” Sagot naman ni Maqui. “Maggagala lang tayo Julie. Tamang unwind lang. Since it’s been a
stressful month for you. Gift na namin ni Sef to sayo.” Maqui added and smiled at her through the rear
view mirror.

“Or better yet, try to sleep Julieta. Nang manahimik ng very light yang mouth mo. Go!” utos naman ni
Sef.

“Tss. Ewan ko sa inyo. Dami niyong alam.” Iritableng sabi niya at saka na nagsuot ng earphones while
she tried to sleep inside the car.

*****

She woke up and nagulat siya dahil nakahiga na siya sa isang hammock. She was pretty sure that she
slept in Maqui’s car kaya naman nagtataka siya how she got there. Lumingon siya sa paligid and saw no
one. She was alone in a deserted beach.

“Asan nanaman kaya yung dalawang yun?” she asked herself. Naglakad siya para hanapin ang mga
kaibigan pero hindi niya pa rin nakita ang mga ito. Natatakot na siya dahil maggagabi na and she doesn’t
even know kung saang lupalop na ba siya ng Pilipinas. She sat on the sand at saka na siya naiyak.
Pakiramdam niya sasabog ang puso niya any moment. Ang sikip sikip na ng dibdib niya. Maya maya pa
ay nagvibrate ang phone niya.

Maqui:

Uy, wag kang iiyak baby girl. This is for you naman eh. Look up ka dali.

Naguguluhan man pero she followed what her bestfriend said and nakita niya ang unti-unting
pagliwanag ng kalangitan. Not because of the moon but because of hundreds of sky lanterns floating.
Kahit humihikbi pa ay napangiti na rin siya kahit paano. She wanted to witness this kind of event since
she was a kid pero pangarap niya to watch this with someone she loves. Kaya kahit na napawi na ng
konti ang lungkot ay naiyak pa rin siya.

“Moe…” was the first thing she said. Yes. Si Elmo nga ang gusto niyang makasama para manood ng
ganito. Pero wala. Dahil sa galit sa puso niya, tinulak niya si Elmo papalayo sa kanya. And again, her
phone vibrated.

Sef:

Julieta, isa pang iyak mo jojombagin na kita. Tayo diyan. Mukmok ng mukmok. MV ang peg mo girl?

Natawa naman siya dahil sa text na natanggap. Kahit kailan talaga hindi pumalya si Sef to make her
laugh. She stood up and started walking. Kung saan siya dalin ng mga paa niya, ay dun siya nagpupunta.
As she walked further, she noticed a silhouette not very far from her. Bigla namang bumilis ang tibok ng
puso niya. Kahit saan. Maliwanag man o madilim. Kabisado niya kung sino ang may-ari ng silhouette na
iyon.

“Moe?” pagtataka niya. She walked a little closer and her heart beats faster with every step she takes.
Nakatalikod ito sa kanya. Pero she was sure na siya yun. Si Elmo yun.

Chapter 17

“I told you diba? Don’t stress yourself too much. Bakit ka umiiyak? You know how much I hate to see
you cry. Nasasaktan ako.” The guy said. Kahit na patuloy sa pagtulo ang luha ni Julie ay napapangiti na
siya. Her heart was right. Siya nga iyon. Si Elmo nga iyon.

“E-Elmo…” humarap naman ito sa kanya and smiled at her. She missed that. Yung ngiti niya na may
pagmamahal. “It is you.” sabi niya pa. Lumapit sa kanya si Elmo and wiped away her tears.

“Did you see the lanterns?” he asked. Napatango naman si Julie and smiled at him. “Took me a week to
set those things up. Dami kong kinausap na tao para lang paliparin sila lahat.” Nakangiting sabi pa nito.
Julie’s tears started falling again. Hindi niya alam kung dahil ba sa tuwa o ano. “Shh. Tahan na. Andito na
ko oh.” Elmo said nang hindi pa rin siya magsalita.
“I wanted to watch those with you.” She finally said. “Kaya lang wala ka.”

“I’m sorry baby. For everything. For not telling you about my ex, for always hurting you, for stressing you
too much…” Julie placed her forefinger on his lips to stop him from talking.

“You don’t have to say sorry, Moe. Naintindihan ko na. And wala na akong paki about the past.”

“Julie…”

“Moe, mahal mo ko diba?” she asked. Tumango naman ang binata sa kanya.

“Sobra.”

“Enough na saken yun para mapatawad ka. And besides, ako din naman may kasalanan sayo eh. I
pushed you away. Hindi kita pinakinggan. Ang moody ko lagi. Tapos lagi pa kitang inaaway, lagi kitang
binabara. Tsaka akala ko talaga nun, you only love me dahil sa baby sa tiyan ko.”

“Shhh. Julie, I love you okay? All your flaws, mistakes, smiles, giggles, jokes, sarcasms. Everything. I just
love you and I want you.” Napatulala naman si Julie sa sinabi ni Elmo. Akala niya mahal lang siya nito
dahil sa baby nila. But no. He loves her with or without the babies. Hindi na napigilan ni Julie ang sarili at
napayakap na lang siya rito.

“I missed you.” sabi niya against his chest. Elmo hugged her tight habang nagssway pa sila. He started
humming a familiar tune. She can’t remember when she heard it pero she was sure na napakinggan na
niya ito before.

Never Knew I Needed

For the way you changed my plans

For being the perfect distraction

For the way you took the idea that I have

Of everything that I wanted to have

And made me see there was something missing, oh yeah

For the ending of my first begin

(Ooh, yeah yeah, ooh, yeah yeah)

And for the rare and unexpected friend

(Ooh, yeah yeah, ooh, yeah yeah)

For the way you’re something that I’d never choose

But at the same time, something I don’t wanna lose

And never wanna be without ever again

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

So when you were here I had no idea

You the best thing I never knew I needed

So now it’s so clear, I need you here always

My accidental happily

(Ever after)

The way you smile and how you comfort me

(With your laughter)

I must admit you were not a part of my book

But now if you open it up and take a look

You’re the beginning and the end of every chapter

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

So when you were here I had no idea

(When you were here)

You the best thing I never knew I needed

(That I needed)

So now it’s so clear, I need you here always

(Now it’s so clear)

Who knew that I could be

(Who knew that I could be)

So unexpectedly
 (So unexpectedly)

Undeniably happier

Sitting with you right here, right here next to me

Girl, you’re the best

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

(Said I needed)

So when you were here I had no idea

(When you were here)

(Said I had no idea)

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

(That I needed)

So now it’s so clear I need you here always

(Now it’s so clear)

(So clear, so clear, I need you always)

Now it’s so clear, I need you here always

As their bodies danced, so does their hearts. And out of nowhere ay tumugtog ang tonong kanina ay
hinahum lang ni Elmo. It’s as if they were brought back in time. Simula nang magkabanggaan sila, to
being enemies, then neighbors, then friends and ngayon, magkakaanak na sila. As every event came to
her mind ay nagsimula nanamang tumulo ang mga luha niya. She was pretty sure that he’s not the man
she wanted to fall in love with. Pero ngayon, she never wants to let him go. Selfish na kung selfish. Pero
si Elmo ay para lang sa kanya. Only hers he will be.

Elmo on the other hand never felt this happy in his life. Naalala niya when he first saw her. And he
admits. Sinadya niyang mabangga ito. Simula pa lang may gusto na siya kay Julie. Kaya he thought of a
way on how to get to know her. Pero dahil naunahan ng katorpehan, he decided to become her enemy.
Instead of being a friend. Natuwa pa siya nang malaman na ang condong binili ay katapat ng condo unit
ni Julie. It’s as if all the odds are in his favor. Lalo pa when something happened between them. Kahit pa
nag-alala siya that he was her first, masaya pa rin siya. Dahil ginusto rin naman ni Julie iyon. He started
crying as every memory came rushing back. Ang dami na kasi nilang napagdaanan. Tapos ngayon,
magiging daddy na siya at mas kinasaya ng puso niya dahil si Julie ang nanay ng magiging mga anak niya.
Si Julie. Siya lang wala nang iba.

“I love you, Moe.” Nang marinig ni Elmo iyon ay napatigil siya sa pagsasayaw nila. He looked at her na
para bang nagtatanong if he heard her right.

“W-what did you say?” tanong niya.

“I love you…”

“I love you as in…” natawa naman si Julie and she cupped his face.

“I love you as in I love you like I’m in love with you. Moe, I’ve never in my life felt this way towards
anyone…” natawa naman ulit si Julie and napailing pa. But she then looked at him. Waiting for his reply.

“Julie, I love you more. This may sound crazy pero aaminin ko, my life was a complete mess before. But
then you came. And you truly helped me be myself again. And Julie, I love you for that.” he said habang
naiiyak pa. “Mahal na mahal kita, Julie.” Nakangiting sabi niya.

“Mahal na mahal din kita, Elmo.” And they closed the gap between them and after a month filled with
hardships and heartaches, ay napawi lahat iyon with their kiss. Para bang sa isang halik lang nila ay
nabura lahat ng sakit na naranasan nila.

“Julie…” Elmo said against her lips.

“Hm?”

“Does this mean, tayo na talaga? As in, tayo na?” he whispered.

“What do you think, daddy?” she asked him sweetly. Elmo kissed her again. Tumango pa ito and smiled.

“I love you, baby.”

“I love you too.”

*****

“So kakuntsaba mo nanaman pala sila Maq and Sef.” Julie said. Nakaupo sila nun sa sand. Elmo was
sitting behind her habang yakap siya nito.

“Haha. Yeah.” Sagot nito.

“Alam mo? Minsan iniisip ko kung ako ba bestfriend nila or ikaw na eh. Lagi na lang ikaw pinapaboran.”
She said.

“Haha. Eh para sayo naman lahat ng ginagawa nila eh.” He replied as he played with their hands. “You’re
the luckiest girl to have friends like them, baby. Alam mo ba yun?”
“Yes. I know that. Kaya nga I’m very thankful din sa kanila eh. Never nila akong iniwan. Well. Except for
kanina. Hahaha.”

“Hahahaha. Literal na iwanan ba?”

“Hahaha. I was just kidding.” Natatawang sabi nito.

“One more thing…”

“Hm?”

“You’re family is the best. They were behind this as well.”

“Kaya pala kung makangiti si mama kanina, wagas. Sabi na eh. And yung breakfast kanina. Kahit di ka
magtext, nafeel kong ikaw nagluto nun. How’d you do that anyway?”

“I talked to your dad nung umaga. Sinabayan ko siyang magjogging. And yun. He told me to make you
breakfast.”

“Si papa talaga…”

“Yeah.” Sabi ni Elmo at saka pa pinatong ang ulo nito sa balikat ni Julie.

“Moe…”

“Hm?”

“Wala. I love you lang.” she whispered. Elmo kissed her cheek and hugged her tight.

“I love you too.”

Chapter 18

Maagang nagising si Elmo. First day na kasi niya sa school and maaga ang first class niya. He took a bath
and after nun ay nagbihis na siya. Maya-maya pa ay may kumatok sa pinto ng condo niya. He
automatically smiled dahil alam niya kung sino na agad yun. Nagmadali siya to open the door and his
smile grew even wider.

“You have a key naman bakit kumatok ka pa?” he asked.

“Haha. Wala lang. Gusto ko lang.” sagot nito at saka na yumakap sa kanya. “Good morning baby!” bati
nito. He kissed the top of her head and greeted her as well.
“Good morning baby!” tapos bumaba siya ng konti and kissed Julie’s tummy. “Good morning Ethan and
Eloise.”

“Haha. Cute mo. Kumain ka na ba? I prepared breakfast. Tara sa condo.” Julie said and then she grabbed
Elmo’s hand at naglakad na sila papasok ng unit niya.

“Baby, ang dami naman ng food.” Sabi ni Elmo. Para kasing isang taon silang di kumain sa dami ng
pinrepare ni Julie.

“Haha. You need a lot of energy para di ka tutulog tulog sa school.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Hey! I don’t sleep in class na kaya. Nagbago na ko.”

“Good. Kain ka na. Dali. Baka malate ka pa.” kumain na nga sila at nagkwentuhan pa. After breakfast ay
bumalik si Elmo sa condo niya to get his things.

“Baby, I’ll be back later ha? Don’t worry. My class ends at 2:30. So mahaba oras natin together.”
Nakangiting sabi nito.

“Haha. Okay, okay. Hintayin na lang kita. Take care ha?” Julie replied.

“Yes po. Bye na. I’ll see you later.” And Elmo gave her a smack on the lips. “I love you.” Sabi nito sa
kanya.

“I love you too.” At hinatid na nga ni Julie si Elmo sa elevator.

Pagdating ni Elmo sa school ay agad naman siyang sinalubong ng mga kabarkada.

“Elmo pare!!! Namiss ka naming ungas ka!” bati ni Derrick at saka pa ginulo ang buhok ni Elmo.

“Namiss ko rin kayo mga pare. Sorry medyo MIA ako lately ha.” Elmo explained.

“Okay lang, pare. We heard na Julie was rushed again sa hospital. Actually yun yung last naming balita.
What happened to her?” Kris asked.

“Lo happened.” Elmo said.

“Ha? Lo? Your ex?” Steven asked.

“Yeah. Long story mga pare.”

“Okay lang, Elmo. Medyo tsismoso naman kami eh.” Sabi ni Derrick.

Natawa silang lahat. Nagkwento na nga si Elmo about sa nangyari.

“Wow. I can’t imagine that happened.” Steven said while shaking his head.
“Pero at least, everything starts to fall into its right place.” Steven added.

“Onga naman, plus yung pag-amin mo, Elmo. It was a great move. Kahit wala kami don. Kahit di mo kami
kinasabwat don! Hahaha.” Kris said habang ginugulo ang buhok ni Elmo.

“Paano ba yan, RJ. Mukhang magaling talaga si Elmo kahit torpe yan. Hahahaha!” Pang-aasar naman ni
Derrick kay Alden.

“Seryoso Alden, pare, you like her?” Elmo asked.

“Oo pare, pero nakikita ko na masaya kayo. Basta pare alagaan mo yung magiging pamilya mo ha.”
Seryosong sabi ni Alden.

“Ikaw pare ha, di mo man lang sinasabi sakin na may pagnanasa ka pala sa girlfriend ko. Haha. Pero pare
wag kayong mag-alala lahat, gagawin ko lahat lahat para sa magiging pamilya ko.” Elmo explained to all.

*****

Since Julie stopped this semester. Gusto kasi ni Elmo na nasa condo lang siya, para di siya mapagod.
Aminado si Julie na nabobored siya sa condo. Wala siyang ginawa kundi, manood ng tv, kumain ng mga
prutas na binili sa kanya nila Elmo, Maqui at ng kanyang Mama at Papa. Paminsan-minsan naglilinis siya
sa condo ni Elmo, pero lagi naman siyang pinapagalitan nito dahil ayaw niyang napapagod ito. Pag
nagsawa na siya sa ganito, sa kwarto lang siya parati at magbabasa ng iba’t ibang baby books.

“Hi baby.” Elmo opened her room’s door.

“Bakit ang tagal mo umuwi?” Julie said habang nakapout ito.

“Aww. Hindi naman baby ah? Look oh, 3pm pa lang, umalis ako agad after ng last class ko.” Sabay halik
sa forehead naman ni Julie.

“Eh kasi daddy naman, miss ka na namin ng mga babies natin.” As she touched her big bump.

Umupo naman si Elmo sa kama at tumabi sa kanya, “Miss ko rin naman yung misis ko ah? Pati yung mga
babies ko.” As he kissed her tummy.

“Aray. Aray, baby.”

“Why Julie? What’s wrong?”

“Sumisipa kasi yung isa mong baby eh, eto oh.” As she pulled Elmo’s hand.

His smile automatically flashed. “Onga baby oh, baka naman naglalaro silang dalawa. Gusto ko na silang
makita. Kaya lang baby, natatakot ako na baka di ko sila makarga ng maayos.” Elmo said.

“Speaking of that baby, sabi ni Mama we can attend yung mga parenting seminars para daw aware tayo
pag nanganak ako. What do you think?”
“That’s a good idea baby. Sige, di naman hectic yung sched ko sa school kaya we can attend those.”

“Yehey. Baby, nagugutom ako.” Paglalambing nito kay Elmo as she lay on his chest.

“I’ll cook dinner na lang for us.”

“Ano lulutuin mo daddy?”

“Ano bang gusto ni mommy?”

“Kahit ano basta luto ni daddy.”

“Sige, wait for me here na lang.”

“Ayaw, gusto ko habang nagluluto ka papanoorin kita.”

“Ayaw mo lang ako mawala sa paningin mo eh.” Panunukso ni Elmo kay Julie.

“Of course no. Tsaka you look so hot when you cook, baby.” As she bit her lips.

“Aba, nanunukso ka pa dyan Julie Anne ha.” Sabay kindat dito.

“Wag na lang kaya ako magluto, can we just cuddle here na lang all night long?” As he started kissing
Julie’s nose and chin.

“Hey, maawa ka naman samin ng mga anak mo, gugutumin mo kami para lang landiin ako? Aba naman
Emong, nakakalimutan mo yatang buntis ako.” Masungit na sagot ni Julie rito.

“Sige na baby, kahit kiss lang.” As he pouted his lips habang nakaharap kay Julie.

“Ay nako, Magalona. Tantanan mo ko sa ganyan mo. Haneps ka talaga eno.” Sabay kurot sa ilong nito.

“Araaaay naman, Julie! Nanggigigil ka nanaman sakin. Eh kung halikan mo na lang ako please?” At may
pa-puppy puppy eyes pa ito sa kanya.

“Why do you have to do that? Ang cute cute cute mo Elmo.”

“See, I know naman na you can’t resist me.” And he started to kiss Julie’s lips.

Nadadala si Julie sa halik ni Elmo, she missed that kind of kiss. She kissed him back. Pero before their kiss
deepened, she pushed him away.

“Okay enough, daddy.” And she smiled naughtily.

“Nambitin nanaman po si San Jose.” And he just kissed her on her nose.

“Sige na Elmo, please cook na. Gutom na talaga ako.” Sabay tulak rito.
And then Elmo pulled her closer to him and he hugged her tight and before he let her go he kissed her
again on her lips and ran away.

“Elmooooo!” Julie shouted.

*****

“Talagang papanoorin mo lang ako magluto dito?” Elmo asked.

“Oo, sabi ko naman sayo na you look so hot while you’re wearing that apron. Hehe. Look baby.” As she
captured a pic of him while cooking.

“Ang cute mo. Haha! Okay now, I’ll post this on Instagram. Itatag ko sila Mommy Pia.” Julie said between
her laugh.

Look who’s cooking now. Isn’t he the cutest? Hi @piamagalona @maxenemagalona

@saabmagalona @fmam @claramags @i_m_arkin

@maxenemagalona: Aww ang sweet naman ni Mosey. Hi baby girl! Miss you both :*

@frencheskafarr: Hey, I’ll drop by ha! Nice Elmo!

@sefcadayona: So, anong pinapalabas mo, Magalona? Iron Chef ganyan? Hey @frencheskafarr Girl
sama ako sayo over there! Bet ko matikman ang luto ni Elmokong! Gorabambam na tayiz! See ya
girlfriends!

@derrickmonasterio: Under ka talaga tsong, imba ka! Galing mo Julie! Hahaha.

@piamagalona: Moe, the apron looks good on you. Hey, go here on Sunday! Family day! Love you
both! Take care of my apos.

@myjaps: @maxenemagalona Hi Ate Maxx, he’s the sweetest and we miss you too! See you on
Sunday! :*

@myjaps: @frencheskafarr @sefcadayona See you girlfriends! =))) Pero parang ayaw ni Moe eh.
Haha!

@myjaps: @derrickmonasterio Hahaha bumabawi yan may ginawang kalakohan ‘tong si Moe no Ric,
tell me? :P lol

@myjaps: @piamagalona Hi Tita! I told him na he looked so hot with it. Haha! Yes po, see you! Love
you too! :*

“Ang cute ng mga comment nila baby oh. Hahahaha! Sabi ni Maqui and Sef, they’ll drop by daw, gusto
nila tikman yung luto mo. Then sabi ni Mommy, family day on Sunday, she wants us to be there.” Salita
nang salita si Julie, pero napansin niyang di siya pinapakinggan ni Elmo, because he is too busy dancing
to the tune of “Gentleman” at di niya pinalagpas yon. In-instavideo niya ito agad and pinigilan niya
tumawa dahil baka marinig siya ni Elmo.

At talagang nagawa niya pang mag-Gentleman habang nagluluto. Baby, you look so hot na talaga
with the apron on plus dancing that hahaha! I love you daddy! @elmomagalona

@derrickmonasterio Pare @elmomagalona imba ka talaga men! Hahaha! Ang lakas mo mangtrip
Julie! Hahaha.

@piamagalona Son, you’re such a good dancer pala. Hahaha! Jules, tell him that haha!

@fmam Brovv what the?!

@maxenemagalona Mosey! You’re such a cutie hahaha! Please do that on Sunday with @fmam
hahaha

@fmam Whatever, @maxenemagalona

“Ano yan?!” nagulat si Julie nang kunin ni Elmo ang phone niya at saka tinignan ang posts nito. “Baby
naman eh! Nakakahiya oh! Pagttripan nanaman ako ng Yolo boys niyan eh.” Nakapout na reklamo ni
Elmo.

“Hahaha. You look so cute kaya. Kapag pinagtripan ka nila, sabihan mo ko. Pipingutin ko sila.” Sagot
naman ni Julie.

“Burahin mo na baby please?” pagmamakaawa ni Elmo.

“Nooooo!” malambing na sabi ni Julie. “Ayoko nga. Ang cute mo dun tapos idedelete ko lang? No can
do, baby boy.”

“Daya mo.” nakapout pa ring sabi nito. Julie kissed his lips at saka ito natawa.

“Daya ka diyan. Walang madaya dun ah.”

“Hmp. Pasalamat ka talaga mahal na mahal kita eh.” Sabi ni Elmo at saka niyakap si Julie. “Love mo din
ako diba?”

“Yes.” And Elmo kissed her nose.

“Good. Kaya delete mo na baby.”

“Hahahaha. No, Moe. Di mo ko madadaan diyan sa ganyan mo.”

“Tsk. Haha. Thought that would work. Di pala.”

“Sorry ka na lang baby. You can’t change my mind, Now please hurry up. Gutom na po kami ng babies
natin.”
“Heto na nga po, mommy. Matatapos na po yung niluluto ko.” And he went back to cooking. Umupo
naman si Julie sa bar stools and watched Elmo move around the kitchen.

“Cutest guy in the world. Kaw na talaga, Elmo.” She said to herself.

*****

Sunday came and as promised, nagpunta nga sina Elmo at Julie sa Antipolo to join the Magalona family.

“Ate Julieeeee!” masayang bati nina Clara at Arkin at saka tumakbo to hug her.

“Psst! You two, get away from my baby. Mamaya masaktan yung mga pamangkin niyo.” Elmo warned
his siblings.

“Ang OA lang, Mosey ha?” sabat ni Maxx. “Hi, Jules! Missed you talaga!” she added and hugged her.
Hinawakan naman ni Maxx and tummy ni Julie. “Hi, EJs! Tita Maxx here!” she said cheerfully.

“Hi, Julie!” bati ni Saab and kissed her cheek pa. Tapos binati rin nito ang babies sa tiyan ni Julie. Frank
followed Saab and kissed her on her forehead.

“Sup, Jules? Musta mga pamangkin ko?”

“Okay naman kuya. Hahaha. Malilikot na nga eh.”

“Really? OMG! I wanna feel it!” pangungulit ni Clara.

“Later na lang Clows.” Sabi ni Pia. “Hi, sweetie! I missed you!” at niyakap na nga siya ni Pia.

“Hi, tita.” Bati niya.

“Mom na diba? Haha.” Pia corrected her.

“Haha. Mom po pala.”

“Good. Oh tara na sa garden. Let’s eat.” And Pia held Julie’s hand at sabay na silang naglakad palayo.

“So you all greeted her samantalang akong anak and kapatid niyo, di niyo man lang pinansin?!” reklamo
ni Elmo.

“Moe, di bagay. Tara na.” natatawang sabi ni Frank at saka tinapik ang balikat ni Elmo.

The day went out smoothly. They shared a lot of stories and pati yung instavid ni Julie about Moe ay
inungkat uli ng mga kapatid niya.

“Hahahaha. Pero ang funny talaga nun. Di ako makacomment agad because I found it hard to breathe.
Sobrang nakakatawa ka dun, Moe!” sabi ni Saab.
“Whatever, Saab! Sabi ko sayo, baby eh. Pagtitripan nanaman nila ako.” Reklamo nito sa kanya.

“Haha. It was cute actually. Shows the other side of Elmo Moses Magalona.” Sabi ni Maxx at saka pa
nag-action.

“Haha. Stop teasing your brother. Namumula na siya oh.” Natatawang sabi ni Pia.

“Tsk. Ayoko na nga. Lagi na lang ako yung napagtitripan.”

“Aww. Stop it na guys. Look at him! Haha.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie at saka pa niyakap si Elmo.

“Aww. Sweet niyo talaga.” Kinikilig na sabi ni Maxx.

“Ants! Ants everywhere!!” sabi ni Arkin.

“Hahahaha. Nice one!” at nakipag-apir pa si Frank sa kapatid.

“Ate Julie, when will your babies come out ba? I can’t wait na eh.” Tanong ni Clara.

“2 ½ months from now, Clara.” Nakangiting sagot ni Julie.

“Aww. Tagal pa.” nakapout na sabi nito.

“Okay lang yun, Clows. It’s worth the wait naman eh.” Saab said and hugged her sister.

“Haha. Yeah, Clows. Excited much to be a tita?” sabi ni Maxx.

“Yeah! Super kaya!”

“Mas excited si Moe, Clows. He keeps on asking me kung ilang araw na lang ba. Hahaha.” Kwento ni
Julie.

“Oh? Grabe, bro! Nagmamadali ka ba?” tanong ni Frank.

“Haha. It’s normal. First baby nila eh.” Sabi naman ni Pia. After nila magkwentuhan ay naisipan na rin
umuwi nila Elmo at Julie. Gabi na kasi and iniiwasan ni Elmo na mahamugan si Julie.

*****

“Baby?” he said. Nasa condo na sila nun and nakaupo sa sofa.

“Yeah?”

“What if I move here na lang?”

“Ha? Bakit?” Julie asked at saka tumingala to look at his face.

“Para maalagaan kita nang maayos.” He replied.

“Hm. Para maalagaan or para makalandi ka saken every night?” she asked as she looked at him
teasingly.

“Well, that too. Hahahaha.”

“Ts. Magalona talaga. Mga tactics mo eno?”

“Dali na kasi. Anong sabi ko sayo? Clingy is my middle name.” he said as he gives her chicken kisses.
“Kaya payag ka na dali.”

“As if I have a choice. If I know, nakaready na mga gamit mo no?”

“Hahahaha. How’d you know?” natatawang tanong ni Elmo.

“Ikaw pa ba, Elmo? Mangungulit ka ba if di ka pa ready?”

“Tss. You know me so well talaga.”

“Of course.”

“Soooo. Payag ka na?”

“Hm. Do I have a choice?” kunyaring naiiritang tanong ni Julie.

“Yes or oo lang po baby.”

“O na lang, baby.”

“Julie!”

“Hahahaha. Oo na, oo na. You can move here.”

“Yes! I love you.” At saka na niya hinalikan ang dalaga. “Daddy’s moving in na, babies!” sabi ni Elmo as
he kissed Julie’s tummy.

CHAPTER 19

As planned, nakalipat na nga si Elmo sa condo ni Julie. Sobrang excited siya dahil nga naman magkasama
na sila sa iisang bubong. Julie learned that he asked permission from her parents bago pa man ito
magsabi sa kanya.
“Kaya pala sobrang confident kang papayag akong lumipat ka ha.” Sabi niya nang matapos sila mag-ayos
ng gamit ni Elmo.

“Hahaha. Of course baby. Syempre para wala ka nang kawala, I asked Papa and Mama first. Sina JM and
Jac nga nagtataka pa that we weren’t living under the same roof pa pala. Haha. Akalain mo yun?”

“Whatever, Elmo.”

“Whatever, Elmo.”

“Stop it.”

“Stop it.”

“Elmo, stop repeating everything I say sabi eh!”

“Elmo, stop repeating everything I say sabi eh!”

“Hay. Ewan ko sayo. Diyan ka na nga.” And Julie stood up from the couch and went inside her room. Or
should I say, their room. Elmo followed her. Syempre, hahayaan ba niyang magtampo sa kanya ang
babaeng mahal niya? No way.

“Julie, joke lang.”

“Ewan ko sayo, Elmo. Pabalikin kita sa unit mo eh.” Irita pa ring sabi ni Julie.

“Baby, sorry na kasi.” Sabi niya at tumabi pa sa kama. He kissed her shoulder and hugged her. “Joke lang
yun. Ang moody mo talaga.”

“Nagsosorry ka ba talaga or what?” she asked him at saka inalis ang braso ni Elmo.

“Nagsosorry. Kaw naman.” Paglalambing pa uli nito. “Bati na tayo ha?” at hinalikan na naman siya sa
balikat. “Please, baby kong maganda. Bati na kayo ng baby mong gwapo.” Natawa naman si Julie sa
sinabi niya.

“Lakas ng confidence ha?”

“Oh bakit? Tama naman ah. I’m handsome. I’m charming, I’m cute, I’m hot.”

“Woooow Elmo! Lahat na talaga ha?! Grabe ka.” Pailing-iling na sabi niya dito.

“Don’t deny it. Ikaw naman nagsabi nun eh.”

“Ha? I can’t remember a thing.”

“Weh? Sabagay. How can you remember eh you said it while you were sleeping.” At inarte pa ni Elmo
kung paano sinabi iyon ni Julie.
“Ang kapal mo! I don’t talk when I sleep.”

“Really? I should’ve recorded it. Sayang.” Nang-aasar na sabi nito. “Don’t worry baby. Kahit di mo
sabihin, alam kong gwapong gwapo ka sa akin.” Mayabang na sabi nito. Julie scowled at saka tinignan
nanaman siya ng masama.

“Seriously, Elmo? Ganyan ka-confident?”

“Don’t deny it, baby. Papabuntis ka ba saken if di ka naggwapuhan saken?”

“Wow. Eh malay ko ba if you put something dun sa iniinom ko na gayuma pala.”

“I don’t need that baby. Titig ko pa lang nagagayuma na kita.”

“Kapal talaga.” Sabi ni Julie at saka na lang napailing. “Next time, sabihan mo ko pag magyayabang ka
ha?”

“Huh? Why?”

“Para di ko na i-on yung aircon. Ang hangin mo kasi masyado eh.”

“Hahahahaha. Sige, next time. Pero bati na ba tayo?”

“Pag-isipan ko pa.”

“Eh?” nagmamaktol na si Elmo dahil ayaw pa rin makipagbati ni Julie. Para siyang bata na
nagtatantrums.

“Elmo, stop that. Bata lang?” she said nang makitang nagpapapadyak si Elmo sa kama.

“Eh kasi bakit di pa makipagbati. Joke lang naman yun.” Nakapout na sabi nito.

“Yung totoo? Mas moody ka pa kaysa saken.”

“Tss.”

“Hahaha. Fine, fine. Bati na tayo.”

“Don’t say it if you don’t mean it.” Sabi niya at saka tumalikod kay Julie. Natawa naman si Julie at saka
niyakap si Elmo from behind.

“Bati na nga po tayo, baby kong gwapo.”

“Labas naman sa ilong.”

“Haha. I love you baby ko. Bati na tayo. Promise di na ko magiging moody basta wag ka lang
magtantrums.” Sabi ni Julie at saka pa hinalikan ang likod ni Elmo. Humarap ito sa kanya and returned
the hug. “Bati na tayo ha? Look at you. Papanget ka niyan kakapout mo.” Sabi ni Julie at kinurot pa ng
mahina ang ilong ni Elmo.

“Kiss mo muna ako.” He said. Julie kissed him on the chin and smiled. “Sa lips, Julie. Kailan pa napunta sa
baba ko yung labi ko?”

“Hahaha. Fine, fine.” And she kissed him on the lips. It was only a smack pero sobrang napangiti na si
Elmo. “Landi mo. Namumula ka smack lang naman yun.”

“Hahaha. Eh kasi eh.” At hinalikan siya ni Elmo. It lasted for about 3 minutes and napangiti si Elmo when
they broke apart. “I love you. Alam mo yan.”

“And I love you too. Mas alam mo yan.” Julie said and hugged him tighter.

“Baby?”

“Hm?”

“Kinikilig sila Ethan and Eloise. I can feel them move against your tummy.”

“Hahaha. Yeah. I can feel them, Moe. Ang landi daw kasi ng daddy nila.”

“Malandi man, mahal naman ng mommy nila. Diba?”

“Yes. Sobra pa nga.” Sagot ni Julie. They spent the whole afternoon, cuddling. Nagkwentuhan pa sila as if
they never ran out of those. Sa mga oras na yun, it’s as if mas nakilala pa nila nang lubos ang isa’t isa.
Yes they talked about life, and stuff before. Pero iba ngayon eh. Kung dati, simpleng kwentuhan okay na,
ngayon naman seryosong usapan sila. And if before ang topic nila was their own lives, ngayon, they’re
talking about their future. Their happily ever after. Their forever.

*****

“Goodmorning, honey.” Elmo greeted her as he pulled her closer to him and hugged her tight.

“Sinong honey, Elmo ha?” Pagtataray niya as she hides the sound of her laugh.

“Sino pa ba? Ikaw lang naman ang katabi ko ah. Ikaw lang din naman yung babaeng mahal ko.
Nagpapalambing ka lang dyan eh.” Elmo kissed her shoulder and caressed it.

“Cheee. Ikaw Magalona ha, malaman ko lang talagang may babae ka sa school, yang mga gamit mo nasa
condo mo na ulit. Tandaan mo yan.”

Natawa si Elmo sa sinabi ni Julie. Hinarap niya ito sa kanya, “Sabi na eh, pinipigilan mo matawa while
saying those. Haha ikaw talaga mommy, ang cute cute cute mo when you do that, when you sound so
jealous and so strict. I love you, only you and no one else.” And he kissed the tip of her nose.
Automatically, Julie smiled.
“You know what Moe, everytime you do that, everytime you say those sweet words, my heart grows
fonder. And you never fail to make me feel your love. I am so lucky to have you, Moe. As well as our
babies, I hope you won’t change.” Julie said while looking straight at Elmo’s eyes and a single teardrop
fell.

“Baby, bakit ka umiiyak? Hey, baby,” He’s very worried.

“Eh kasi naman Elmo, ang aga aga, gumaganyan ka.” Sabay hampas ng mahina sa pisngi nito.

“Aww, sorry baby. I just wanna remind you lang naman how much I love you eh. Pero baby, mas kinilig
ako sa mga sinabi mo. And the truth is, mas maswerte ako sayo, kasi ikaw yung babaeng nagpatino
sakin, babaeng nagmahal sakin ng ganito and most of all you’re the mother of my twins.” And he kissed
her lips sweetly.

“See, ayan ka nanaman Magalona. Tama na nga, you still have class pa diba? Dali tayo ka na dyan and
cook breakfast na baby.”

“Yeah, kaya lang parang tinatamad ako to go to school eh. Parang mas gusto ko lang dito tayo.” At lalo
pa nitong niyakap si Julie.

“Baby, kagabi pa tayo nagkacuddle? Sige na go to school na then uwi ka ng maaga, let’s go to the mall.”
As she pushed Elmo away.

“Anong gagawin natin sa mall?”

“Bili tayo ng gamit ng babies natin. Hehe.”

“Aww, baby til 7pm yung class ko. Can we just do it some other time?”

“Ehh baby! Sige, si Maqui and Sef na lang aayain ko. Miss ko na rin naman silang dalawa eh.”

“Eh ayoko baby, gusto ko tayong dalawa gagawa non.”

“Maya na natin pag-usapan yan baby. You cook na please. Thank you.” And she gave him a kiss.

*****

Julie waited for Maqui and Sef at her favorite coffee shop.

“Ang gandara park mo naman girlfriend! Ganyan ba talaga pag nakatira na sa iisang balur?” Sef told her.

“Haha. Haynako, pakalandi nga ni Magalona. Jusmiyo marimar. Di ako pinapatulog, laging kinakausap
yung mga babies namin. Pero super cute niya, especially when he does the household chores.” Julie
said.

“Aba si Magalona, talagang f na f na ang pagiging asawa at tatay, friend.” Maqui said.
“Ano, ganunchi na tayiz? Wit na tayiz punta ng mall? Akala ko ba gogorabambam tayiz over there and
bibili ng mga anik anik ng mga junakiz mo?” Singit ni Sef.

“Oh eto na nga Cadayona, aalis na tayo ditey. Pakarami mo namang satsat over there.” Julie said.

*****

While on their way sa mall…

“Can’t wait no more. I wanna take you down. I really wanna take you down, take you down.”

“Girl, ano nasa MOA Arena tayiz? At pa-concert-concert ka pa over here?” Natatawang tanong ni Sef
nang marinig na kumakanta si Julie.

“Kelan ka pa natutong kumanta ng ganyang kahalay?” Tanong naman ni Maqui.

“Di niyo lang alam, pero nakakabuntis yang kantang yan. Haha!” natatawang sabi ni Julie sa kanyang
bestfriends.

“OMG ka Julieta! Haliparot ka ng very very hard don. As in pakahardcore mo! Hahaha.”

“Don’t tell me Julie, habang nag-aano kayo ni Magalona, may background music pa kayo? Haneps kayo
ha!”

“Grabe naman kayo, wala pa nga akong sinasabi eh, pero medyo tama kayo don ng very very light.
Hahaha!”

Tawa ng tawa ang tatlong magkakaibigan ng pagbaba nila sa kotse.

“Lokaret kayong dalawa ni Elmo. Di ko kayo kinaya don Jules.” Napapailing na lang si Maqui sa sinabi ng
kanyang bestfriend.

“Haha. Nilandi niya kasi ako with that song eh. Haha.”

“At talaga naman nagpalandi ang mujer, aba naman talaga. Hahaha! Ang kire kire mo, Julieta ha.” Sef
said sabay kurot kay Julie.

Sabay sabay na naglalakad ang tatlo ng biglang napatigil si Sef, “OMG to the highest level!!”

“Hi Julie.”

CHAPTER 20
“Hi Julie.” The girl smiled.

“Wow ang lakas ng radar mo girl ha infairness. Akalain mong of all the places ditey ka pa namin
masasight.” Sef said.

“Duh, inyo ba itong mall para gumanyan ganyan ka dyan? And nandito ako kasi gusto ko. So, excuse
me.” The girl said.

“Sef, enough.” Pagpigil ni Julie rito.

“Hi, Lo.” She added.

*****

Lauren invited Julie in a resto, gusto niya makausap ito and to apologize for what had happened.

“Julie, how are you?”

“I’m good, my babies are good, Elmo and I are in good terms.”

“Good to hear that.” Lo smiled.

“I wanted to apologize for what had happened. Sorry if I made a scene and nag-hysterical ako that time.
Because of me, you got hospitalized and almost lost your babies. I admit, nagulat ako, hindi mo naman
ako masisisi di ba? I am really really sorry, Julie.”

“Sorry too, Lo. I am not aware na ikaw pala yung ex-girlfriend ni Elmo na nakwento niya sakin. Kung
alam ko naman, I know what to do eh. Okay lang yon, thank God nothing happened to my babies, siguro
kung meron wala ako rito right now.”

“Gusto ko rin sana makausap si Elmo, galit pa ba siya sakin?”

“Oo galit pa rin ako sayo, ano pa bang gusto mo ha Lauren?” Biglang singit ni Elmo.

“Moe, what are you doing here? Paano mo nalaman na.. okay don’t tell me.” Julie asked him.

“Sef called me immediately, di ako umattend ng last class ko. Tumakbo ako agad dito nung nalaman ko.”

“Hay si Sef talaga oh.”

“Elmo, wala akong bad intentions kay Julie. I really wanna talk to her and apologize. And etong pagkikita
namin, this is a coincidence. So I just grabbed the opportunity.” Lauren explained.

“I know you so well, Lo. So stop being a hypocrite. Julie, lets go.”

“Elmo, ano ba. Don’t make a scene here please. She approached me nicely, kaya pwede ba, stop what
you’re doing.”
“Sige na Julie, sumama ka na sa kanya. I told you immature siya and insensitive.”

“Sayo lang. Kay Julie, I’m a changed man now. So, if you’ll excuse us.”

“Sorry, Lo. Aayusin ko muna ‘to.” Julie said apologetically. Lauren nodded at tsaka na umalis ng tuluyan
sina Julie at Elmo.

*****

They were on their way papunta sa condo. Walang kibo ang dalawa sa isa’t isa. Kunot ang noo ni Elmo
habang si Julie naman ay tahimik lang na nakaupo sa passenger’s seat.

Elmo stopped the car at the side of the road and heaved a deep sigh bago siya tumingin kay Julie.

“Jules…” He said softly.

“Moe, sorry talaga… It was a coincidence. We didn’t even know na andun pala si…” Niyakap na ni Elmo
si Julie and wiped the tears that started brimming from her eyes.

“Shhh. Okay lang, okay lang. I understand. Sorry kung nagalit ako agad. Ayaw ko lang talaga na lumalapit
ka sa kanya. Sorry for being over protective, baby. Tahan na.” Sabi ni Elmo at tsaka pa pinunasan uli ang
luha nito.

“Eh kasi nagagalit ka eh. Ayoko lang na uuwi tayo ng galit ka sa akin.” Umiiyak na sabi ni Julie.

“Di ako galit promise. Nabigla lang ako, kasi I didn’t expect that she would be there and that she would
even talk to you. Sorry talaga ha?” Tumango na lang si Julie at tsaka pa ngumiti.

“Bati na tayo ha?”

“Di naman tayo nag-away baby eh. Kaya wag ka na umiyak diyan. Papanget ka niyan sige ka.” Sabi ni
Elmo as he cupped Julie’s face between his hands. Natawa naman si Julie at tumango pa ulit.

“Okay, I won’t cry na.”

“That’s my girl. Oh uwi na tayo ha?” Sabi niya as he started the car’s engine.

*****

“Ano na babaita? Anyare sa inyo ni Lauren? Tanong ni Sef nang magkausap sila ni Julie sa phone.

“Kajirits ka bakla. Alam mo yon? Bakit mo tinawagan si Elmo? Lauren was apologizing na eh. Biglang
dating siya sa resto.”

“Girl, wala kaming tiwala sa babaeng yun. Aba malay namin kung saktan ka niya.” Singit ni Maqui.

“Nagsorry nga siya, Maq. Kinamusta pa niya babies namin ni Moe.

“Ah basta dear, I don’t trust that girl.”

“Fine. Di din naman natuloy kasi nga dumating na si Elmo.” She explained.

“Buti nga naisipan pa namin na tawagan siya eh. Oha oha. Knight in shining armor ang peg.” Sabat ni Sef.

“Haha. Sef, thanks for calling me kanina ha?” Inagaw ni Elmo ang phone kay Julie.

“Di ako galit. Sorry kung di na namin kayo nadaanan ni Julie kanina. Ayaw ko lang na magtagal siya sa
mall while Lauren is still there.”

“What did Sef say?”

“Wala. Sabi lang niya na ipapaban daw niya si Lo sa lahat ng mall. Hahahaha!”

“Baliw talaga yon. Haha!” sabi ni Julie.

*****

Umupo sila sa sofa and decided to watch a movie. Wala na rin naman kasi silang gagawin so naisipan na
lang nila magchill sa condo.

“Baby?”

“Yes baby?”

“Let’s buy baby stuffs na tomorrow ha?” Sabi ni Julie.

“Okay po. I have no classes naman tomorrow eh.” Sagot niya.

“I want to buy them clothes na sana tsaka toys. What if we buy them a crib na?”

“Baby, what if bili muna tayo ng mga maternal clothes mo? Para you have something to wear kapag
malaking malaki na yung tummy mo. Di ba?”

“So sinasabi mong mataba ako?

“No baby. Kailangan lang talaga na magdamit ka ng ganon para di maipit yung tiyan mo. Para di maipit
sina Ethan and Eloise.”

“Ewan ko sayo.”

“Haha. Baby, kailangan talaga yun.” Sabi ni Elmo.

“Ewan ko sayo. Mataba na ko no?! Panget ko na no?!”

“Julie, baby, ikaw ang pinakamagandang babae sa buong mundo. Why would you think na panget ka?”
He asked her.

“Tss. If I know iniisip mo lumba lumba na ko because I’m pregnant. Hay nako, Magalona.”

“Hahaha. Moody ka na naman baby. Sabi mo di ka na magiging moody di ba?

“Eh ang lakas mong mang-asar dyan eh.”

“Di kaya kita inaasar.” Hindi naman na siya kinibo ni Julie.

“Uyyy…” Kinalabit niya ito pero di siya nilingon ng girlfriend.

“Tampo na naman ang baby ko. Halika nga dito.” At niyakap niya ito.

“You’re not ugly baby. You’re not fat. In fact, you’re the most beautiful and the hottest woman I know.
Partida pregnant ka pa ha?” Nakangiting sabi ni Elmo sa kanya.

“Che!” Ang tanging nasabi niya pero niyakap niya rin naman si Elmo.

“Haha. Basta bukas magdedate tayo. Okay?”

“Fine.”

*****

“Goodmorning baby. Brekky brekky!” Elmo prepared something for her. Mula kasi kagabi na naging
moody ito, di siya nito masyadong kinikibo.

“Ano yan? Peace offering ha Magalona?”

“Peace offering agad, di ba pwedeng I wanted to cook something special for my special girl?”

“Whatever. I don’t wanna eat.”

“Eh baby naman. Kahit tikman mo lang ‘tong luto ko. Pag ayaw mo, sige wag mo na pilitin yung sarili mo.
Pero please tikman mo muna.”

“Oo na. Ano ba yang niluto mo ha?” Mataray na tanong nito sakanya.

“Pancakes with banana, omelette with broccoli and cheese, fruits, orange juice and milk.”

“Wow, Elmo gusto mo talagang tumaba ako ng sobra sobra.”

“Jules naman, nagresearch pa ko ng best breakfast for pregnant woman tapos mag-iisip ka ng ganyan.
Hay. Okay, if you don’t want, just let me know kung ano talaga gusto mo.” Sabay tayo sa kama at lalabas
na sana siya ng kwarto.
“Eto na nga oh. Wag ka na magdrama dyan. Umupo ka rito sa tabi ko.”

“Kakainin mo na ba yan? Nakakatampo ka naman kasi eh. Hay.”

Julie tasted first the omelette with broccoli and cheese. “Hmm, pwede na.”

“Pwede na? Ganon lang?”

Di niya ito sinagot at tinikman na niya ang pancakes with banana, “Okay lang rin.”

“Okay, parang di ka naman nasarapan. Sige, ano ba gusto mo, I’ll cook something else na lang. What do
you want ba?”

“What do I want? Come here, and sabayan mo ko kumain. Mas sasarap ‘to kung kasama kita. Come here
na baby.”

“Akala ko ba di masarap?”

“This is my weakness, you’re cooking skills. Lahat ng niluluto mo, para sakin yon ang pinakamasarap.”
Sabay subo ulit ng omelette at sinubuan niya rin si Elmo.

“Talaga baby?” Sabay punas sa gilid ng lips ni Julie.

“Yes baby. Ang sarap mo talagang manglambing no.” And Julie planted a quick kiss on Elmo’s lips.

“Ang cute cute mo kasi magpalambing mommy eh.”

“Che. After this baby, let’s go to the mall na ha.”

“Yes, mommy.”

*****

“Baby, paki-zipper naman yung dress ko.”

“Jules, bakit ayaw? Ayaw masara oh.” Seryoso na sabi ni Elmo.

“Elmo, di ka nakakatuwa ha. Kung aasarin mo na naman ako, bahala ka na sa buhay mo.” Naiinis na sabi
ni Julie.

“Seryoso kasi Julie. Ano ba.”

“Moe naman eh. Bakit hindi kasya sakin? Ang taba taba ko na talaga siguro.” And she’s about to cry.

“Baby, wag kang iiyak. Gagawan natin ng paraan yan. Hmm, what if you’ll just wear my shirt? What do
you think?”
“Nakakainis naman Elmo! Ang taba taba taba ko na talaga! Papanget na ko nito!” At tuluyan ng umiiyak
si Julie.

“Kaya nga let’s go to the mall na so that we can buy some maternal clothes. Hush hush na baby.” Elmo
said.

“Here, wear my polo.”

“Para namang may choice ako.” And she just wore it.

“See, my polo looks good on you. Lalo kang gumanda. Halika nga rito, let me hug you.”

“Baby, feeling ko ang panget ko na.” Sabay hug ni Julie kay Elmo and he kissed her forehead.

“Stop that Jules. Di ako magsasawang sabihin na you’re the most beautiful pregnant woman I’ve ever
met. So stop worrying much about your look, okay? Let’s go na.”

*****

“Yan baby, that looks good on you, pero parang lahat naman ng sinukat mo bagay sayo. Ang ganda
ganda ganda mo talaga.” Elmo said habang umiikot sa harap niya si Julie sa pang-5th na maternal clothes
na sinukat niya.

“Nambola na naman po siya.”

“Totoo baby. Anong gusto mo magsinungaling ako sayo?”

“Oo na po, naniniwala na po. Baby, tama na kaya ‘to?”

“Eh baby, do you think enough na ba yan? Feeling ko kasi kulang pa eh.”

“Sabi ni Mama, sasamahan niya daw ako bumili ng iba pang damit ko.”

“Sige, so let’s just buy our babies stuffs na lang muna?” Elmo asked.

“Sure thing baby.”

The two roamed around the babies’ section. Julie decided na bumili ng pair ng lahat ng bagay na
kailangan nila. Gusto kasi niya na pareho ang mga magiging gamit ng kambal nila ni Elmo. Syempre Elmo
didn’t disagree with Julie, lahat ng gusto nito ay sinusunod nya. He finds it so cute and adorable.

“Thank you Lord. Thank you for giving me Julie. Thank you for giving me the courage to tell her how
much I love her. She changed me to a better man. I am so grateful that she’s the mother of my twins.
Thank you.”
CHAPTER 21

“Rise and shine baby!” Julie said excitedly. Maaga kasi siyang nagising to cook him breakfast. It’s another
school day for Elmo and alam ni Julie na whole day na naman itong gagawa ng design plates niya. And
she knows how he forgets if he’s occupied with something.

“Hm. 5 more minutes please.” He said.

“No can do, baby. Bangon na diyan. Malelate ka kaya. Look at the time oh!”

“Baby, 5 more minutes. Please.” Ulit niya at saka pa niyakap si Julie. “Ayokong pumasok.” Dagdag niya
pa.

“Hay nako, Elmo. Tamad ka na naman? Tsk.” Julie said as she pinched his nose. “Get up, Moe.” Sabi niya.
Niyakap lang naman siya ng mahigpit nito and buried his face in her hair.

“No.”

“Di ka babangon?” she asked and looked at his face. Umiling lang naman si Elmo and buried his face in
her hair again. “Dali na baby. Bangon na please? Nagluto pa naman ako for you tapos di ka babangon
diyan.” Dumilat naman si Elmo and smiled at her.

“Just kidding. Good morning baby.” And he kissed her quickly on the lips.

“Ha. Ha. Very funny. Good morning, baby.” And she pinched his nose. “Maligo ka na para we can have
breakfast already.”

“Okay po.” And he got up from bed and went to the bathroom.

*****

“Baby, baka magshopping kami ni mama later ha?” paalam ni Julie kay Elmo.

“Sige baby. Mga what time?” he asked.

“I’m not yet sure. May inaasikaso pa kasi sila ni papa so baka mamayang hapon pa yun.” She replied.

“Okay, okay. Ingat kayo okay? Sunod ako if natuloy kayo.” he said and smiled at her. Julie wiped the side
of his lips at saka na lang ito tumango.

“Basta wag mong mamadaliin yung plates mo ha? I’ll text you na lang if matutuloy kami ni mama.” she
reminded him. Usually kasi, minamadali ni Elmo ang plates niya lalo na kapag matagal ang oras niya sa
school. After breakfast ay nagready na si Elmo umalis.

“I’ll go na, baby.” He said to Julie.

“Okay, okay. Ingat ka po. Ha?” and she hugged him and kissed him on the lips.

“Hm. Parang gusto kong magstay na lang dito. Wag na lang kaya akong pumasok?” kinurot naman ni
Julie ang ilong niya. “Oww!”

“Ikaw talaga basta landi eno? Alis na! Late ka na naman.” Sabi ni Julie.

“Hahaha. Okay, okay. Bye, baby.” And he gave her another kiss on the lips.

*****

Pag-alis ni Elmo ay naglinis muna si Julie ng unit nila. After cleaning ay nakipaglaro siya kay Sonny
habang nanunuod siya ng tv. Hindi niya namalayan na nakatulog na siya dahil sa kapaguran.

Nagising siya nang biglang magring ang cellphone niya.

“Hello?”

“Baby, what are you doing? I’ve been calling you since kanina pa di mo sinasagot. Are you okay?” Elmo
asked, worriedly.

“Yes po. I fell asleep kaya di ko nasasagot yung calls mo. Sorry baby. Nag-worry ka pa tuloy.”

“Hay. I thought something happened na. Anyway, I just called because Maxx texted me. She’ll drop by
daw diyan kasi she visited a friend somewhere na malapit lang din diyan. I think mom’s coming din with
Clows and Barq.”

“Okay. I’ll wait for them.” She replied.

“Sige. Bye baby. My prof’s here na.”

“Okay. Bye. Ingat ka diyan.”

“Ingat ka din mommy. I love you.”

“I love you too.” And nag-end call na. After about 45 minutes ay may nagdoorbell na. She stood up from
the couch and opened the door to greet her visitors.

“Julieeeee!!” Maxx squealed as she hugged her. “I missed you.” Dagdag pa nito.

“Hi, Ate Maxx. I missed you too.”

“Aww. How’re you?”

“I’m okay, ate.”

“And the babies? Sumisipa na ba?” excited na tanong nito.

“Haha. Yes. Everytime they hear Elmo’s voice, naglilikot sila sa tiyan ko.”

“Aww. Cutie.” Maxx said as she rubs Julie’s tummy. “Hi, babies! Tita Maxx is here na!” nagulat siya when
she felt a movement against Julie’s tummy. “OMG! Sumipa sila!”

“Haha. They’re greeting you ate. Namiss ka din nila.”

“Aww. Tita missed you too.” Sabi niya. “Anyway, Jules. Mama and the little ones will be here any
minute. They came from the store kasi and decided to drop by. Namimiss ka na naming lahat.”

“Sige po, ate. Tagal na nga naming di nakakavisit ni Moe sa Antipolo. He’s too busy with school kasi eh.
Nagsstart na sila sa thesis nila.”

“Yeah. Atleast di na siya bulakbol like before. Haha.”

“Haha. Oo nga po.” They were still exchanging stories nang may magdoorbell nanaman. Maxx
volunteered to open the door and Pia, Arkin and Clara entered.

“Hi, Ate Julie!” masayang bati ng dalawang nakababatang kapatid ni Elmo.

“Hi, Barq! Hi, Clows!” she greeted back.

“Hello, sweetie.”

“Hi, tita.” Bati niya kay Pia at saka pa bumeso.

“Tita? I told you to call me mom na diba?”

“Haha. Sorry, I forgot po.” Natatawang sabi niya. They spent the whole day, exchanging stories. Matagal
kasi bago nila nakita uli si Julie and they all missed her. Sayang lang dahil Frank was out of the country
and Saab’s busy with her work kaya di ito nakapunta.

Pia also brought groceries for Julie and Elmo. And she also bought lunch for all of them. They’re having
their conversation, when Julie’s phone rang.

“Hello, Ma? Ah ganon po ba. Sige po, okay lang. Please tell Jac to get well soon and I miss her so much.
And please kiss her for me, Ma. Thank you.” Marivic called her and cancelled their appointment today
because Julie’s youngest sister got sick.

“Nandito rin po sila Mommy Pia, Ate Maxx, Clara and Arkin. I will, Ma. Ingat po kayo dyan. I miss you all
there. Love you, Ma!” She added.

“Was that Marivic, Jules?” Pia asked.

“Opo, Mom. Supposedly we’ll go to the mall, kaya lang po she cancelled it kasi Jac got sick eh. Ayun po.”
She explained.
“If you want, ako na lang sasama sayo sa mall? Are you going to buy something important ba?”

“Maternal clothes lang po, Mom. Okay lang po. Gusto ko rin po sana makabonding si Mama, miss ko na
rin po kasi sila.”

“Oh, it’s okay sweetie. Tara na, let’s eat na.” Aya nito kay Julie.

“Wait lang po Mom, tawagan ko lang po si Moe, will let him know lang po na hindi kami matutuloy,
susunod po kasi sana siya samin.”

“Sige, baby girl.” Maxx said.

“Hi baby, you’re in class now ba? Can I talk to you for a second?” Julie asked.

“Nope baby, kakaend lang ng class ko. Andyan na ba sila Maxx? And wait, what time kayo magkikita ni
Mama?” Sunod sunod na tanong ni Elmo sakanya.

“Hey baby, take it easy. Haha. Yeah, nandito na sila. Mommy Pia bought lunch and some groceries also.
And yeah kaya ako tumawag to let you know na hindi kami matutuloy ni Mama, nagkasakit kasi bigla si
Jac. Next time na lang daw. Uwi ka na lang ng maaga after class mo, please baby?” Lambing nito kay
Elmo.

“Ah ganon ba. Sige. Oo naman, I’ll go home agad after my class. Kahit hindi mo sabihin. Plus miss na kita
mommy.” Pa-cute na sabi ni Elmo.

“Asus. Miss agad daw niya ko. Sige na, kumain ka na ng lunch mo dyan ha. And no girls allowed, okay?
Kanina pa ko inaantay nila Ate Maxx.”

“I’m with the YOLO boys right now. Andito kami sa rooftop, dito kami kumakain baby. Sige na, you eat
well okay. I love you.”

“Gujab! I will baby. I love you more daddy. Mwa! See you later. Please take care, okay?” And she hung
up and joined Pia, Maxx, Clara and Arkin.

*****

After they had lunch, nagkwentuhan ulit sila. Maxx, left earlier because she has some errands to do.
Hinayaan lang nila Julie at Pia na maglaro sila Clows at Barq.

“Jules, sweetie. I really wanna say thank you for coming in to Elmo’s life. I am so grateful na he got you
pregnant, don’t get me wrong, pero siguro kasi it was destined to happen, and I was really happy when
he talked to me and told me that he loves you, that he wants to take the risk. And now, I can see him
more responsible in everything he does. So, thank you again Julie. Thank you for loving him and
accepting him and changing him to a better man.” And she hugged her tightly.

“Thank you Mom, thank you for those sweet words. I am lucky to have him rin po. Nung una, I was so
afraid to tell him that he got me pregnant. Natakot po kasi ako na baka di niya tanggapin. And when he
found out po, akala ko po magagalit siya, though he admitted na he was hurt na tinago ko, but mas
inintindi niya po yung reason ko. And because of that, minahal ko siya. And when he admitted that he
loves me, I feel like I am the luckiest girl in the world at that moment. And thank you po for accepting
me. And thank you for loving me too.” And she cried. Pia hugged her again.

“Hey sweetie, don’t cry. Mapapagalitan ako ni Elmo niyan pag nalaman niya na umiyak ka. Alam mo
naman yon, mahal na mahal ka. Ayaw na ayaw kang nakikitang umiiyak. Stop na. Smile na okay.”
Hinarap niya si Julie sakanya and held her hands.

“Yes, Mom. Thank you so much.”

“Anyways, we’ll go na. Masyado na kaming nakakaistorbo sayo. Take a rest na.”

“Thank you for visiting me, Mom. Ingat po kayo. Bye Clows and Arkin. Love you all!” Julie said as she bid
goodbye to her mother-in-law.

*****

Hapon na ng umalis sila Pia sa kanilang condo. She felt happy and worried at the same time ng maalala
niyang maysakit nga pala ang bunsong kapatid, kaya tinawagan na lang muna niya ulit ang kanyang
Mama para makibalita.

“Hi, Ma. Kakaalis lang po nila Mommy Pia. Kamusta na po si Jac?”

“Eto may lagnat pa rin. Ikaw anak, kamusta ka?”

“Okay lang naman po, Ma. Kahit mga next week na lang po tayo magkita para maalagaan niyo po
munang mabuti si Jac.”

“Sige po, Ma. Magpahinga na rin po kayo, ako rin po magpapahinga muna. Love you, Ma.”

At pagkatapos nilang magusap ay humiga muna si Julie ulit.

*****

She was awakened by someone’s kiss. And she knew where it came from.

“Hi baby.” Sabay harap kay Elmo.

“Hi baby. You forgot to lock the front door. What if pasukin ka rito, tapos ikaw lang mag-isa then
natutulog ka pa. Hay, Julie naman eh.” Sabay tabi kay Julie.

Niyakap muna siya nito bago sumagot, “Sa sobrang pagod ko na baby, nakalimutan ko. Wag ka ng mag-
overreact diyan, wala namang nangyari sakin eh.” And she buried her face in his chest and hugged him
tightly.
“Pinagod ka ba nila, mommy? Hay. Di ako nagooverreact dito, I am just stating the fact. I can’t afford
that something might happen to you and to our babies. Kaya please, always lock the door ha?” and he
kissed her temple.

“Opo daddy. So how’s school?”

“Ayun, thesis thesis puro thesis. Ang hirap maging graduating baby, pero you know what keeps me
inspired?”

“Ano, baby?”

“Anong ano, sino dapat ang tanong. You, Ethan and Eloise. I am doing this for my family. For us. For our
future.” And he kissed her temple again.

“Thank you baby. And we are always here to support and understand you. I love you, daddy!” and she
reached out for his lips and kissed him with love.

“Kumain ka na ba ng dinner?” Julie asked.

“Not yet, baby.”

“May natira pang food sa fridge. I-microwave na lang natin. Tara, lets eat na. so that you can take a rest
na rin.”

“Cmon.” Inalalayan niya si Julie sa pagtayo sa kama nila and held her hand.

Elmo is in the kitchen when his phone rang. Julie is holding it, kaya she accidentally read the message.

“Hi Moses. Don’t forget our meeting tomorrow after class for our thesis, alright? Can’t wait for that.
Hehe. Kidding handsome. Anyways, goodnight. Mwa!” It was from a girl. Elmo’s groupmate in their
thesis.

“Wow. Ang flirt naman nitong babaeng ‘to. Nako, Magalona patay ka sakin.” Inis na sabi ni Julie sa sarili.
But she was thinking too, na wag muna siya magsasalita about what she has read.

Pinuntahan na lamang niya si Elmo sa kitchen and acted as if nothing happened.

“Baby, tara na let’s eat na.” Tawag ni Elmo sakanya di niya kasi napansin na nandon na pala si Julie kasi
wala siyang ginawa kundi kumanta.

“Ay you’re here na pala, nanggulat ka na naman baby.” Elmo added.

“Oh bakit ka naman nagulat dyan? May ginagawa ka bang mali?” Mataray na tanong ni Julie rito.

“Ha? Ginagawang mali? Mali ba yung ginagawa kong mahalin ka, alagaan ka, pagsilbihan ka, Julie?” and
he hugged her from behind and kissed her nape. “Hmm, ang bango bango mo talaga, mommy.” At lalo
pa niya itong hinalikan.
“Napaka-cheeseballs mo, Elmo. Halika na, kumain na lang tayo. Nagugutom na ko.” Sabay tanggal ng
kamay ni Elmo sa kanyang bewang at naglakad papunta sa dining table.

“Bakit ang sungit ng baby ko? Ah siguro kasi gutom na yung kambal ko. Opo boss, kakain na po tayo.”
Elmo said though nagulat naman siya sa inasta ni Julie.

Habang kumakain sila, “Ah, Elmo, ilan kayong magkakagroup sa thesis nyo?” Bigla niyang tinanong si
Elmo.

“Five, baby. 3 boys and 2 girls. Why baby?”

“Wala lang naman. Natanong ko lang.” And she continued eating.

“Ah okay baby. After natin kumain, what do you want to do?”

“Wala akong maisip eh. Magpahinga na lang siguro ulit tayo. Napagod talaga ko today.” Cold na sabi ni
Julie.

“Jules, what’s wrong? Why are you acting so strange? Kanina naman pagdating ko ang sweet sweet mo,
then why sudden change of the mood baby?” Elmo asked worriedly.

“Pagod nga ako, Elmo. Hindi mo ba yon naiintindihan.” Medyo napataas ang boses ni Julie ng sinabi niya
iyon.

Nagulat rito si Elmo, di na lang siya umimik pa dahil baka mag-away pa silang dalawa. Pagkatapos
kumain ng dalawa, si Elmo na ang naghugas ng pinagkainan nila, si Julie naman dumerecho na sa
kanilang kwarto at naglinis ng katawan.

Pagpasok ni Elmo ng kwarto, nakita na niyang nakahiga si Julie. Inayos niya ang kumot nito at hinalikan
ang noo niya, “Pagod ka nga siguro talaga Jules kaya ganon ka kanina, don’t worry naiintindihan naman
kita. Rest well, mommy. I love you so much.” At pagkatapos ay siya naman ang naglinis ng katawan,
inayos pa kasi niya ang mga school stuff niya pagkatapos maghugas ng pinggan.

Julie heard that, she opened her eyes, nagtulog-tulugan lang siya ng marinig niyang naglalakad si Elmo
papunta sa kanilang kwarto. Nagiguilty siya sa inasal niya kay Elmo kanina, alam niya pagod na ito and
she acted like a brat kanina.

“Kasi naman yung text na yon eh, nakakainis. Hay.” At di niya namalayan na nakatulog na pala siya with
those thoughts in her mind.

*****

She woke up na nasa tabi pa niya si Elmo at yakap yakap siya nito habang nakatalikod siya rito.
Tatanggalin na sana niya ang braso ng binata sa pagkakayakap sa kanya pero lalo namang hinigpitan ito
ni Elmo.

“Hmm, baby. Goodmorning.” As he kissed her shoulders and buried his face in her hair.
“Galit ka pa ba?” Tanong ni Elmo sakanya.

“Goodmorning baby. Di naman ako galit eh, sorry sa pagtaas ko ng boses kagabi. Pagod lang po talaga
ako.” Sabay harap kay Elmo and she cupped his face and kissed him.

“Okay lang baby, naiintindihan ko naman po. Nagulat lang ako na you did that, pero wala yon. I love you,
Julie. Always remember that.” And he kissed the tip of her nose.

“Baby, di na ko magbebreakfast, maaga kasi ako kailangan sa school ngayon, kokopya pa daw sila Kris ng
assignment eh. Pa-deliver na lang tayo bago ako umalis, sa school na lang ako kakain. Okay, baby.”

Julie just nodded. Tumayo na si Elmo at tumawag na nga lang siya para magpadeliver and after that he
took a bath na.

Pinalipas na lamang ni Julie ang nangyari kaninang umaga. She’s sad and natatakot pero hinayaan na
lang niya. Bago umalis si Elmo, dumating na rin ang pinadeliver niyang almusal for his baby. And he left
for school na rin agad agad.

*****

“Knock, knock.”

Julie opened the door and was surprised to see who her visitors are.

“JULIEEEETAAAA! NAMISS KITANG BABAITA KAAAA! ANG LAKI LAKI NA NG TIYAN MO, OH MY GOSH!”
Sigaw na sabi ni Sef sakanya.

“Huy, ano ka ba Cadayona, ang aga aga pa kung makasigaw ka naman, tulog pa yung ibang tao no.”
Sabay na hampas ni Maqui kay Sef.

“Aray ko naman, girl. Eh kasi girl miss na miss ko lang tong merlat na itey!” Sef explained.

“Ano Julieta, tatayo na lang tayiz ditey? Di mo man lang kami papapasukin sa loob ng baler mo? Kaloka
ka talaga.” He added at dere-derecho na nga siyang pumasok sa loob ng unit ni Julie.

“Loka, loka talaga yang si Sef. Hi, Maq. I missed you so much dear.” And she hugged her tightly.

“Ay, ganunchi? Kayo na lang ang gaganyan over there? Di ako pwede sumali sa grouphug ha?”

“Halika nga rito, Cadayona. Namiss kita ng bongga bonggabels!”

“POWERRRRHUUUG NA ITEEEEY!”

*****

“So kamusta naman kayo ni Elmo? And your babies?” Maqui asked.
“Okay naman except last night, Maq. The babies, okay naman sila. I’m eating healthy foods, taking my
vitamins, not stressing myself too much.” Matamlay na kwento ni Julie.

“Spill, girl.” Sef said.

“May nagtext kasi kay Elmo kagabi. It’s a girl. Eh ang flirt kasi ng dating ng text niya, and unfortunately
kagroup niya yung girl sa thesis nila. Yeah, I trust Elmo, but the girl of course not.” Julie explained.

“Baka naman di aware yung girl na magkakaanak na si Moe?” Sabi ni Maqui.

“Hay nako, Julieta kung akiz sayo, babantayan ko yan ng bonggang bongga! Mamaya may nilalandi na
pala ng ibang merlat yang si Elmokong ha?” Gatong naman ni Sef.

“Alam mo Sef, you’re not helping. Lalo mo pang ginulo yung utak ng friend natin.” Pambabara naman ni
Maqui kay Sef.

“Pero tama naman siya Maq eh, what if tama naman pala yung hinala ko? Hay.”

“Wait lang, tumatawag si Mama.”

Julie: Hello, Ma? Kamusta na po si Jac?

Marivic: Okay naman na siya, Japs. Pwede na tayo umalis. Wala ka bang ginagawa ngayon?

Julie: Wala naman po. Nandito po sila Maqui and Sef.

Marivic: Ah ganon ba. Sige, kahit after lunch na lang tayo umalis. Okay lang ba sayo yon, anak?

Julie: Opo, Ma. See you po later. Ingat po kayo. Tawagan ko na lang po kayo mamaya.

Marivic: Sige, anak. Mag-iingat ka ha.

Julie ended the call.

“Tumawag si Mama, magkikita kami mamaya. Mamimili pa kasi ako ng mga maternal clothes ko.” Julie
said.

“Mga what time kayo aalis, Jules?” Maq asked.

“After lunch pa naman.”

“Sige, sabay sabay na tayo. Pupunta rin kami nito ni bakla sa mall eh.”

“Sige. Text ko lang si Moe ha.”

“Hi baby. Nakausap ko si Mama, tuloy kami magshopping mamaya. Sunod ka ha? Ingat ka. Behave
and I love you!”
“Dito muna kayong dalawa ha, will take a shower lang.” Julie said to her bestfriends.

“Sige girl, pakisamahan na rin ng konting bilis ha.” Pangungulit ni Sef sakanya.

Habang naliligo si Julie, nagreply naman si Elmo sakanya.

“Julieta, si prince charming mo may pagreply na. Basahin ko ha.” Sigaw ni Sef.

“Sige lang girl.”

“Hello, Mommy. Alright. Will go to the mall after ng class ko. Ingat ka ha. I love you. Will call you in a
bit.”

“Girl, kadiri kayo ni Elmokong, mommy daddy ang tawagan. Wow ha, mag-asawa ang peg.” Pangaasar
naman ni Sef. “Ay, girl tumatawag na siya. Ano ba naman yan.” Dagdag pa ni Sef.

“Akin na nga.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

Elmo: Hi Mommy.

Julie: Hi Daddy.

Sef and Maqui: Hi daddy Elmoooo!!!

Elmo: Sila Maqui ba yon?

Julie: Yes, they surprised me eh.

Elmo: Alright. Pakisabi , hi.

Julie: Hi daw sabi ni Daddy Elmo.

Sef: Yuck hahaha! Miss na kita Magalona!

Elmo: Nakakatawa talaga yang si Sef. What time pala kayo magkikita ni Mama?

Julie: After lunch daw po. Sabay sabay na kami nila Maqui pumunta kasi pupunta rin sila sa mall. Sunod
ka ha, after ng class mo.

Elmo: Okay baby. By the way baby, I forgot to tell you na may meeting pala kami after class pero saglit
lang naman yon. Will call you na lang pag papunta na ko.

Julie: Okay sige. See you later. I love you. Alis na kami. Ingat ka.

Elmo: Okay. Ingat kayo ha? I love you too so much. Wala man lang akong goodbye kiss, mommy?

Julie: Hay nako, Elmo pakalandi mo. Mwa mwa mwa!

Elmo: Can’t wait for your real kisses later. Haha! Sige go ahead. Bye!

“Pakaclingy talaga niyang lalaking yan. Gusto pa may kiss ibababa lang yung phone. OA na ha! Nako,
Julieta!” Sef said.

“Halika na Cadayona, wag ka na mag-inarte pa dyan, umalis na tayo. Kain muna tayo ha.”

“Hoy, Julieta Marie, kakatapos lang natin, tommy hilfiger ka na naman dyan! Ang tindi naman ng mga
anak mo, always tomjones!”

“Hoy ikaw bakla, pakarami mong reklamo! Akala mo siya di patay gutom, mas patay gutom ka pa nga
sakin eh. Halika na.” sabay hila ni Julie sa tenga ni Sef.

*****

Magkasama na sina Julie, her mom, Maqui and Sef sa mall. They had lunch first at tsaka humiwalay ang
kanyang mga bestfriends sakanila.

“Susunod ba satin si Elmo, anak?” Tanong ng Mama niya sakanya.

“Opo, Ma. Natext ko na po siya kanina.”

Buong maghapon umikot sa mall ang mag-ina para bumili ng mga kailangan ni Julie.

“Ma, saglit lang po ha. Elmo’s calling po.”

“Hi baby. Sige, medyo malapit na rin kami matapos. Ingat ka. I’ll text you na lang kung saan tayo
magdidinner. Okay, bye. I love you.”

“Ma, papunta na raw po si Elmo. After po natin dito, hanap na tayo ng resto na pwede kainan. Medyo
nagutom po kasi ako sa pag-iikot natin. Doon na lang daw po siya susunod.”

“Sige, anak.”

*****

They’re now at the resto. Julie ordered already. Elmo texted her that he’ll be there in 5mins.

“Oh anak, andyan na pala si Elmo.” Marivic said.

“Hi, Baby. Hi, Mama.” He kissed Julie’s forehead at nagmano naman siya kay Marivic.

“Sorry Jules, medyo na late ako ha? Medyo nagkagulo kasi yung sa thesis namin eh.” Elmo explained.

“Okay lang baby.” Julie answered.

“Kumusta po kayo? Sila Papa po kumusta? Balita ko po si Jac nagkasakit daw po?” Sunod sunod na
tanong ni Elmo.

“Uy, baby. Grabe ka naman magtanong kay Mama.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Nagmamadali yata si Elmo, anak.” Marivic said.

“Hehe. Hindi naman po. Namiss ko lang po kasi kayo.” Elmo smiled to Marivic.

“Etong batang ‘to napakasweet mo talaga. Okay naman ako at ang Papa mo. Si Jac, okay na rin.
Binabantayan siya ng Papa mo.” Marivic answered.

Dumating na ang mga pagkain na inorder nila. Walang ginawa si Elmo kundi asikasuhin si Julie, miski ang
Mama nito. Lahat ng pagkain na inorder ni Julie, ay paborito nilang dalawa kaya naman tuwang tuwa
ang dalawa habang nakain.

“Napakaswerte ng anak ko sayo, Elmo. Nakakatuwang tignan kung paano mo alagaan, asikasuhin,
iparamdam sa anak ko kung gaano mo siya kamahal. Salamat dahil pinanindigan mo si Julie. Kaya
pumayag kami sa lahat ng plano mo, dahil alam namin na kaya mo ng iprove samin na dapat kang
pagkatiwalaan. Salamat ng marami, Elmo.”

CHAPTER 22

“Bakla san ka?” Julie asked Sef over the phone.

“Ditey lang sa condo girl. Got no classes today. Why?” he asked

“Samahan mo naman ako sa OB. I have a check-up scheduled today eh.”

“Eh. Bakit naman akiz pa? Asan ba yung boyfriend slash feeling asawa mo?”

“Eh basta. Samahan mo na lang ako. Di ba pwedeng namiss na kita tapos ittreat kita mamayang lunch.
Alam mo yung bonding?” mapilit na sabi ni Julie.

“Fine fine. Basta ba lunch at merienda yan friend eh. Aarte pa ba ang beauty ko? Osige na. Magreadiness
ka na over there. Gogolibels lang akiz.” sabi ni Sef. After nila mag-usap ay nagready na nga si Julie.
Hinintay na niyang dumating si Sef sa condo after niya magprepare.

“Asan kaya yun? Di man lang nakuhang magtext.” she said while staring at her phone. Maya-maya pa ay
dumating na si Sef. “Wow bakla. Sa clinic po punta natin. Hindi sa rampahan.”

“Wag kang ano diyan. Malay mo kasi may nagpapacheck-up na director or producer or photographer
over there diba? Opportunity my friend.”
“Whatever. Oh, tara na.”

“Di man lang ako papainumin muna kahit water lang? Alam mo bang napagoda ang beauty ko? Some
friend!”

“Kumuha ka na lang ng bottled water sa fridge. Bilis na. Pakabagal oh!”

“Fine! How demanding this mujer. Nakakaimbyerna!!!” at mataray na itong rumampa papasok ng condo
ni Julie at saka kumuha ng tubig sa ref. “Okaaay!!! Gorabambam na tayiz!” at umalis na nga sila sa
condo.

******

“You’re babies are fine, Julie. And you look healthy as well. Great job.” nakangiting sabi ng doctor ni
Julie.

“Thank you, doc.”

“Uhm, doc. I have a question.” biglang singit ni Sef.

“Yes?”

“Kung ang bakla walang matres, bakit dumadami pa rin kami?” bigla namang hinampas ni Julie si Sef
dahil sa tanong nito. “Whaaat?! Ako Julieta nagku-Q&A portion kami ni doc ditey ha. Wag ka ngang
yellow pad diyan!” iritang sabi niya kay Julie.

“Eh kasi makatanong naman!”

“Seryoso ako dito! Ano na doc? Tawa na lang tayo ditey? Di ka magsasalita?” sabi niya sa doctor.

“I’m sorry. Haha. I really don’t know the answer to that question. Hahaha.” di pa rin mapigil sa pagtawa
ang doctor.

“Hay nako. Tara na nga, Sef. Sige po, doc. Thank you ulit.” they bid goodbye to the doctor at saka na
lumabas ng clinic nito.

“Nubayan. Akala ko masasagot na yung question ko. Yellow pad, intermediate pad ka kasi Julieta eh!
Nasense ko na alam talaga ni doc yun eh. Ayaw lang sabihin kasi confidential.”

“Whatever. Nakakahiya kaya sa kanya.”

“Nyanya! Nakakahiya your face. Hay nako. Kumain na nga lang tayo. Ginutom akiz sa paghihintay sayo
eh.” at hinatak na niya si Julie papunta sa parking lot.

They decided to go to this restaurant sa mall na madalas nilang kainang magkakaibigan.

“Teka lang, Julieta. You didn’t answer my question pala kanina.” sabi ni Sef habang naghihintay sa order
nila.

“Huh? What question?”

“Kung bakit di si Elmo ang sumama sa check-up mo. Akala mo girl ha. ‘kala mo di ko getching na
sumegway ka ng very very light sa tanong ko ha. Bonding-bonding effect pang nalalaman.” di naman
nakasagot agad si Julie. “So hangin ang kausap ko ditey?! Hay nako!”

“Ano kasi… Uhm… Pagkagising ko wala na siya sa tabi ko. Akala ko naman he went out to walk Sonny.
Pero nakita ko si Sonny na ang sarap ng tulog sa cage niya. He didn’t even leave a message or a note
kung saan siya pupunta.”

“Nako girl ha. Baka may kaludidang ever so bongga na yang Mokong na yan. Nakoooooo.”

“Ewan ko, Sef. He even forgot that I have a check-up today.”

“Kaloka!! Makita ko lang yan, bebengga yan saken eh.” sabi ni Sef. “Idagdag mo pa tong pakatagal
dumating na order natin. Konting kendeng na lang friend magdidilim na paningin ko. Sure na!” natawa
naman ng konti si Julie sa kaibigan. Kahit kailan talaga, Sef never failed to make her smile. Sila ni Maqui.
Lalo na at times like this.

“Here’s your order po.” sabi ng waiter.

“Ay buti naman naalala niyo pa kami. Kaloka kayo ha. Pagong kumilos. Kajirits.” reklamo ni Sef. Napailing
na lang si Julie samantalang napakamot na lang sa ulo ang waiter. “Julieta, lafang na. Wag ka
magmukmok diyan. Panget ka na nga lalo ka pang papanget.” banat niya.

“Panget ka din. Mana lang ako sayo no.” banat naman ni Julie.

“Ew! Mandiri ka naman ng very light girl! FYI ako ang pinakamaganda sa atin nila Marie Frencheska no.
Dyosa ako at kayo ang mga alipin ko. Wahahahahahahahahahaha!” sabi pa nito. Natawa naman si Julie
sa kaibigan. After nilang kumain ay hinatid na uli ni Sef si Julie sa condo nito.

Pagkaalis ni Sef ay naglibang si Julie by reading books and by listening to music. Ganito kasi ang gawain
niya kapag mag-isa lang sa condo. She wants her babies to be smart kaya nagbabasa siya ng kung anu-
anong libro about parenting and some baby books and she listens to classical music. Nabasa niya kasi sa
internet that classical music helps make your babies smart. Plus, the fact that it relaxes her mind.

“Asan na kaya daddy niyo?” she asked as she rubs her tummy. “Anong oras na di pa umuuwi. Di man
lang makuhang magtext or tumawag.” dagdag niya. She decided to go to bed early dahil napagod din
siya sa kaharutan ni Sef kanina nang nasa mall pa sila.

*****

Pag-uwi niya ay hinanap niya si Julie pero ang sumalubong lang sa kanya ay isang note na nakalagay sa
fridge nila.
FOOD’S IN THE FRIDGE. KUNG DI KA PA KUMAKAIN I-REHEAT MO NA LANG YUNG FOOD.

Hindi na kumain pa si Elmo. He decided to just go to sleep. Ramdam niya kasing may tampo ang
girlfriend sa kanya. He found her sound asleep in their bedroom. He felt guilty dahil di siya
nakapagpaalam na kailangan nilang gumawa ng scale model nang araw na iyon. After taking a shower ay
tumabi siya kay Julie and hugged her pero laking gulat niya nang talikuran siya nito. Pero naisip niya na
baka nagpalit lang ito ng position sa pagtulog so he hugged her again and kissed her shoulder.

“Good night, baby ko. I love you.” and he closed his eyes.

*****

He woke up the next morning at wala na si Julie sa tabi niya. It was a Saturday at wala naman siyang
pasok. Bumangon na siya to look for her and found her in their terrace while drinking milk and reading a
book. Napangiti naman siya dahil ang ganda ng view niya. She didn’t notice him kaya naisipan ni Elmo na
lapitan na lang siya.

“Good morning sa pinakamagandang babae sa mundo.” he greeted her pero it seems like she didn’t
hear him. Dun lang niya napansing naka earphones pala ito. He kissed her cheek at saka pa lang siya nito
napansin. “Good morning ulit baby.” sabi niya. Julie removed her earphones and just stared at him.
Nakangiti pa rin si Elmo pero di naman siya nginitian ni Julie.

“San ka galing kahapon?” biglang tanong ni Julie sa kanya.

“Ha? Ah eh…”

“Uso naman ang cellphone diba? Bakit ka pa nagcellphone if you don’t even know how to use it?!”

“Uhm. Sorry baby. Bigla kasing nagtext groupmates ko eh. We have to start on the scale model kasi our
defense is scheduled next month and ang dami pa kasi naming gagawin. Alam mo naman how
perfectionist our prof is.” he explained.

“Moe, di naman ako magagalit kung magpapaalam ka saken diba? And if it’s really for school. Ano
naman yung magtext ka man lang or tumawag kahit saglit diba?”

“Sorry talaga. Please wag ka na magalit saken.”

“Hay. Ewan ko. You even forgot that I have a check-up yesterday. You promised pa naman since you told
me that you have no classes every Friday. Tapos ganun. Nakakatampo ka talaga.” she said. Elmo hugged
her at saka hinalikan ang noo niya.

“Wag ka na magtampo please. Sorry it slipped my mind. Nakalimutan kong magtext. Sorry na please?”
yumakap na rin si Julie sa kanya. “Bati na tayo ha?”

“Wag mo na kalimutan uli ha? Baby naman kasi eh. Buti na lang Sef was available yesterday kaya
nasamahan niya ko.”
“Sorry talaga ha? Love you.” and he kissed her lightly on the lips.

“Love you too.” sagot ni Julie.

*****

He saw Sef walking from the parking lot kaya naisipan niyang kausapin ito to thank him for
accompanying Julie last time.

“Sef!” he called. Lumingon naman ito sa kanya at saka huminto sa paglalakad. Patakbo siyang lumapit
dito at saka ito nginitian.

“Yes what can I do for you irresponsible man?” bungad ni Sef.

“I just wanna thank you for accompanying Julie last Friday.”

“Nako wala yun. Akiz kasi ata ang pudra ng kambal mo. Baka kasi nakakahiya sayo na samahan si friend
magpacheck-up eh. Baka hadlang sa gala mo. Kahiya diba?” mataray na sabi nito.

“Sorry talaga. Biglaan kasi kaming gumawa ng scale model eh.” sagot niya.

“Hmp! Pasalamat ka talaga mabait ako eh. Perfect friend ako eh. Nako. Ewan ko sayo. Diyan ka na nga!”
at naglakad na ito palayo. Wala naman nang nagawa si Elmo kaya naglakad na din siya papunta sa
building nila. Nadatnan niya ang barkada niyang nagkkwentuhan sa likod ng room nila kaya tumabi siya
sa kanila.

“Oh bro! Anong itsura yan? Di marender ah. Hahahahaha.” pang-aasar ni Derrick.

“Tsk. Aga-aga, Rick ha?” he said.

“Init ng ulo ah. Bakit pre?” Steven asked.

“Eh kasi naman eh. Kinakabahan ako mga pre.”

“Bakit?” Kris asked.

“I don’t know. I think I did something that made Julie mad. Ah ewan!” at hinilamos pa niya ang kamay sa
mukha niya.

“Hala ka pre. Maybe you really did something wrong. Nag-away ba kayo?” Alden asked.

“Nagtampo siya saken the other day. But we were okay yesterday. We even went to church and visited
her family. As in okay talaga kami. Kaya lang kinakabahan pa rin talaga ako eh.” he said.

“Maybe you really did something wrong.” Derrick said. “Think about it bro. Baka may ginawa kang di
niya nagustuhan kaya ganun.” he added.

*****
“Baby.” bungad ni Julie. Elmo was doing his design plate nang lapitan siya ni Julie.

“Yes baby?” he asked at saka huminto sa pagddraft.

“Maaga out mo bukas diba?” she asked habang minamasahe ang balikat ni Elmo.

“Yes. Why?”

“Samahan mo ko maggrocery please? Wala na tayong stock eh.” and she hugged him.

“Sige baby. Uuwi ako agad to pick you up ha?” sagot ni Elmo. “Halika nga dito.” he said at saka pinaupo
si Julie sa lap niya. “Missed you.” he said as he kissed her cheek.

“Makamiss ka naman. Magkasama naman tayo ah.”

“Namiss kita kanina when I was in school.” sagot naman niya.

“Hahaha. Baby ang clingy mo talaga.”

“I told you…”

“Clingy is your middle name. I know Mr. Clingy. Hahahaha.”

“Haha. Nakakatanggal ka talaga ng pagod. You know that?”

“Yeah. Osige na. Magdraft ka na ulit. Kakalandi mo niyan makalimutan mong may kailangan ka pang
gawin.”

“I can always continue this in school naman.” pagdadahilan ni Elmo at saka pa hinalikan nang hinalikan si
Julie sa buong mukha niya.

“Psst. Awat na. Baka maubos ako. Finish that. Matutulog na ko.” and she gave him a long and sweet kiss
on the lips bago pa siya tumayo at saka humiga na sa kama. Elmo stared at her for a while. Bago siya
bumalik sa ginagawa niya.

CHES: Moses, let’s continue the model tomorrow after school okay? I won’t take no for an answer.
Kisses! :)

Nagulat naman si Elmo sa natanggap na text at saka ito tumingin kay Julie na mahimbing na ang tulog.
He wanted to reply to her na may kailangan siyang gawin pero inisip niyang baka maintindihan din
naman siya ni Julie since it’s about school naman.

*****

“Baby, di ako makakauwi agad. My groupmates wanted to make the scale model na kasi.” sabi ni Elmo.
“Ganun ba? Sige okay lang. I’ll ask Maqui and Sef na lang to accompany me.”

“You sure? Sorry talaga. Bawi ako next time okay?”

“Hahaha. Okay lang po yun. Sige na. Baka nakakaistorbo pa ko sa ginagawa niyo. Ingat ka ha?”

“Kaw din. I love you.”

“I love you more.” and she ended the call. Tinawagan naman niyang sunod si Maqui.

“Yes dear?” bungad ni Maqui.

“Busy ka ba today?”

“No naman. Though I have a taste test later with a client. Why?”

“Pasama ako sa grocery. Please?”

“Huh? Why? Asan yung boyfriend slash asawa slash kapatid ng boyfriend ko?”

“He has schoolworks eh. Gagawa sila ng model ng groupmates niya.” sagot ni Julie. “Sige na, Maq.
Please?”

“Okay then. Sama na lang kita sa taste testing ko later you want? Para naman makalabas ka diyan sa
lungga niyo. Hahaha.”

“Haha. Sounds good. Thanks, Maq. Kita na lang tayo sa grocery?”

“No. I’ll pick you up. Wait for me there okay?”

“Okay. Thanks, dear. I love you talaga.”

“Haha. Bolera ka ha. Sige na dear. Papunta na ko diyan. Love you too.” and Maqui ended the call.
Nagready na si Julie and double checked her list. Making sure na nailista niya lahat ng kailangang bilhin.
It didn’t took her long to wait for Maqui dahil wala pang 30 minutes ay nagdodoorbell na ito sa kanya.

“Mukhang sobrang busy ni Elmo ngayon ah.” sabi ni Maqui while they were walking along the grocery
store.

“Ha? Ah oo. Dami kasi nilang ginagawa eh. Tambak ng plates and they have the thesis to think of as
well.”

“Sigurado ka bang thesis lang ang pinagkakaabalahan niyan?”

“Oo naman Maq. Di naman siguro siya magsisinungaling sa akin diba?”

“Naninigurado lang ako, Jules.” Maqui replied. Hindi naman na nakaimik si Julie at tahimik na lamang
silang naglibot sa grocery. Alam naman kasi niyang may gustong iparating si Maqui. Lalo pa’t naikwento
niya yung text ng kaklase ni Elmo dito. After nila sa grocery ay nagpunta sila sa isang café para
magpahinga muna.

“Maq, sa tingin mo ba Elmo’s cheating on me?” biglang natanong niya sa kaibigan.

“Why’d you ask?”

“Wala naman.”

“Ano bang sinasabi ng puso mo?”

“That he’s not.”

“What about your mind?”

“I don’t know. I trust him pero… Ewan ko.” she said. “Alam mo yung feeling na di ka dapat maghinala but
he acts as if something is really wrong. Na there’s something going on behind my back.” She added.

“Julie ayokong pag-isipin ka ha? Pero always remember, mind over heart. And ang instinct ng babae
madalas, totoo yan.” Maqui replied.

“Hay. I just hope it’s not true. Baka di ko kayanin, Maq.” She said.

*****

Ilang oras nanaman siyang naghihintay sa pag-uwi ni Elmo pero wala pa rin ito. It’s past 2:30am at
sobrang naiinis na siya dahil ang last text pa nito ay kanina pang nasa mall sila ni Maqui and that was
what? 8 hours ago? Hindi niya alam kung bakit hindi nagpaparamdam si Elmo sa kanya. Di siya
mapalagay dahil iba ang kutob niya kung nasan ito. She decided to call Sef kahit pa alam niyang
naghihilik na ito.

“Hello?” Sef answered the call after a couple of rings.

“Sef, pwede ba kita makausap?”

“Medyo istorbo ka banda dun friend. Malapit ko na mahug si Papa Dennis Trillo eh. Tapos biglang
magriring phone ko at namesung mo pa ang bubungad.” Reklamo nito.

“Sef kasi…”

“What?”

“Patawanin mo naman ako please?”

“Why? Julieta, do I look like a clown to you? Kaloka ka, girl. Paborlogin mo na muna ako friend.
Mamayang umaga na lang tayo magchikahan. Mahirap na. Pag napuyat ako, maging kamukha pa kita.
Ay! Wit ko keri yun!”

“Okay fine. Sorry for disturbing you. Di lang kasi ako mapakali eh.”

“Ha? Why naman my tarantula friend?”

“Elmo’s not yet home. Di siya nagtetext or tumatawag. I’m starting to get worried na. Mag-isa pa man
din ako dito sa condo. Ewan.”

“You want me to accompany you?”

“Okay lang ba?” she asked.

“Sige, sige. Be there in 30. Wait for me ha? Wag kang boborlogs muna.”

“Thank you, bakla. Love you talaga.”

“Hmp. Sige na. Maglibang ka muna habang wala akiz ha. Bawal shunga, friend. Wait for me okay?” And
Sef ended the call. Medyo gumaan naman ang pakiramdam ni Julie dahil alam niyang masayang kasama
ang kaibigan. She turned the tv on and started flipping channels. She was watching Spongebob when the
doorbell rang. She stood up and opened the door at saka nakita si Sef na nakatayo with paperbag in
hand.

“I bought food. Haha.” Sef said.

“Hahaha. Thanks for coming.” She said at saka pa pinapasok si Sef.

“Nako, girl ha. May sweldo tong ganitey mo. What do you think of me? Your nanny?!” maarteng sabi ni
Sef. Natawa na lang si Julie at saka napailing. “Matulog ka na, bukas na natin kainin mga yan. Antokyo
Japan na akiz eh. Kailangan ko mag beauty sleep.”

“Haha. Fine. Good night, bakla.”

“Good morning na kaya. Sige na. Sisihin pa ko ni Marie Frencheska kapag nalamang puyat ka today.” And
Sef positioned himself on the couch.

*****

Nagulat si Elmo nang pagpasok niya sa unit nila ay nadatnan niyang tulog si Sef sa sofa. He then looked
for Julie and saw her sleeping in their bedroom with Sonny beside her. Naguilty nanaman siya dahil he
forgot to text or call her. Di na nga niya nasamahan sa grocery, di pa niya ito natawagan.

“And the irresponsible man is here. Mabuti naman at naisipan mong umuwi?” nagulat siya nang biglang
magsalita si Sef. Lumingon siya at nakitang nakapamewang ito sa kanya.
“Uhm. Bakit dito ka natulog?”

“Obviously, I accompanied my friend because like I said, I’m the perfect friend. Nakakaawa kasi siya
kagabi. She called me at 2 in the morning at nagpapasama dahil wala ka.” Sabi nito.

“Sorry, Sef.”

“Sorry nang sorry. Ano ka Super Junior?!” iritang sabi ni Sef at saka na siya inirapan.

“Andito ka na pala.” Nagulat silang dalawa nang biglang magsalita si Julie. She was standing by their
bedroom door, arms crossed over her chest.

“Hi, baby. Good morning.”

“Good morning? Sa tingin mo ba, there’s something good with my morning?! Wag mo kong kausapin,
Elmo. Naiirita ko sa mukha mo ngayon.” She said at saka na naglakad papunta sa living area.

“Sorry na kasi, Julie. I for…”

“You forgot. Yung totoo?! May amnesia ka na ba at lahat na lang nakakalimutan mo?! Elmo naman, wag
ka na magcellphone kung di mo naman gagamitin.”

“Let me explain…”

“Explain explain nanaman. Lagi ka na lang mag-eexplain tapos ako naman tong si gaga, naniniwala sayo.
Tapos ano? After how many days, biglang gagawin mo nanaman?! Alam mo yung nakakasawa na
maghintay? Nakakapagod mapuyat, kakahintay sa di naman pala uuwi. Baka nakalimutan mo na din,
Elmo na buntis ako?!”

“Julie, kaya di ako nakapagtext because my phone’s battery died. I’m sorry if I didn’t text or call you.
Hindi ko nadala yung charger ko kaya ganun.”

“Bakit? Wala bang phone yung mga kagroup mo?” singit ni Sef. “Kaloka ka, Elmo ha. Kung gusto, may
paraan. Kung ayaw, maraming dahilan!” sabi niya pa.

“Please naman, Julie. Sorry na. Bati na tayo oh.”

“Nako, Julieta sinasabi ko sayo. Kapag pinatawad mo yan, aabusuhin ka lang niyan.” Sabi pa ni Sef at
saka na kinuha ang gamit niya. “Hmp! Diyan na nga kayo. Naiimbyerna ako. I don’t want to breathe the
same air with that irresponsible boyfriend of yours!” at naglakad na ito papunta sa main door ng condo
nila. Bigla namang tumayo si Julie and followed Sef.

“Julie, where are you going?” Elmo asked.

“Wala ka na dun! Wag mo kong susundan. Naiirita ako sa mukha mo.” And she slammed the door
leaving Elmo alone in their unit.
CHAPTER 23

Hindi na nagawang pumasok ni Elmo sa school. Sobrang nag-aalala siya where Julie would be. He was
cursing himself for being a jerk at sobrang nagsisisi siya for making her wait until dawn.

"Come on, Jules. Pick up the phone." he said repeatedly. Ilang beses na niyang tinatawagan si Julie but
he got no answer. He tried texting her but still, no replies. “Shit ka, Elmo. Gago ka kasi." he said.
“Ngayon, nag-aalala ka kung nasaan yung girlfriend mo. Eh it’s your fault naman." nang walang mapala
sa pagtawag kay Julie, he decided to call his father-in-law. 1…2…3…4 rings but his calls were also
ignored. Nawawalan na siya ng pag-asa pero kailangan masuyo niya si Julie ngayon. Kailangan magkabati
na uli sila. Dahil hindi niya kaya. Dahil mahal niya si Julie.

He sat on the couch para mag-isip. Kung nasaan si Julie. Kung saan ito pwedeng magpalipas ng init ng
ulo. And then Maqui came to his mind. Hindi na niya ito tatawagan. Pupuntahan na lang niya ito dahil
paniguradong itatago rin sa kanya si Julie if ever he tries to call her.

"Oh. Anong ginagawa mo dito?" Maqui asked na halatang galit. “If you’re looking for her then I’m sorry
Elmo. She’s not here."

"Maq please naman. Pakausap mo naman siya sa akin."

"Wala nga dito Elmo eh. And why would I allow her to talk to you? Para ano? Susuyuin mo tapos kapag
naging okay na kayo uulitin mo nanaman yung ginawa mo? Yung totoo Elmo? Ano ba talaga si Julie sa
iyo?" dire-diretsong tanong ni Maqui.

"Maq, mahal ko si Julie. I can’t afford to lose her again. Please naman Maqui. Pakausap mo na siya
saken." naiiyak na sabi ni Elmo. “I’m begging you Maqui. Please." he said as he knelt down and cried in
front of Julie’s bestfriend.

"I’m sorry Elmo. But Julie is not here. And I don’t think she would want to talk to you. Please, Moe. Give
her space kahit ngayon lang." and Maqui closed the door leaving him in tears.

*****

"Gusto mo bang sumama sa amin? Sef and I will be going to the mall." Maqui said.

Weeks passed and still di pa rin siya umuuwi sa condo niya. She decided to stay in her parents house at
kinausap na rin niya ang mga ito na wag siyang ipapakausap kay Elmo if ever he decided to look for her
there.

"I think I’ll just stay at home, Maq. You two enjoy." matamlay na sabi niya. The truth is, she wanted to
see her friends pero dahil nga nasasaktan pa rin siya kaya she opted to stay at home and take care of
herself dahil masyado na siyang nasstress and she fears that her babies might get affected kung
pababayaan niya ang sarili.

"Sigurado ka?"

"Yeah. Enjoy kayo ni bakla ha?"

"Fine. We’ll drop by later. Okay?"

"Okay. Ingat kayo."

"You take care of yourself too. Bye dear. We love you."

"And I love you guys too. Bye." the call ended and so she decided to take a rest.

"He called to check up on you again." her dad said as he entered her room. “I wanted to tell him that
you’ve been crying yourself to sleep pero I don’t want to worry him as much as I want to make him
suffer." he added.

"Thank you, papa."

"Talaga bang di mo na siya mapapatawad?"

"I wanted to forgive him, pa. Pero I think this is not the right time." she answered.

"Hay Julie Anne. Basta you know us naman. Kung nasan ka, susuportahan ka namin ng mama at mga
kapatid mo. But please anak, wag masyadong patagalin ha? Kawawa ang mga apo ko."

"Opo papa. Thank you for understanding me." and she gave his dad a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

"Sige na. Magpahinga ka na diyan. Sasabihan na lang kita kapag may bisita ka." tumango na lang si Julie
at iniwan na nga siya ng papa niya sa kwarto.

*****

"Alam mo Maq, nag-aalala na talaga ko diyan kay Julieta eh. Wit gumogora sa mga lakad natin. Wit
nagpaparamdam kung di pa tatawagan. Ay! Maloloka ako sa kanya!" sabi ni Sef.

They were currently walking in the grocery store to buy something for Julie and their inaanaks. Naisip
kasi nila na mas okay na kung dun na lang sila mag-hangout sa bahay nila Julie para makasama pa rin ang
kaibigan. They missed her so much dahil simula nang mangyari iyon ay di na ito umaalis ng bahay.
Naging tahimik na ito at mas pinipili pang matulog na lamang.

"Hayaan na muna natin siya, Jeg. I’m sure babalik din sa dati. I told you diba? Elmo calls Tito Jonathan
everyday para lang kamustahin si Julie. He loves her."

"Weh? Di nga?" sabi ni Sef.

"Oo naman. He even knelt down to me para lang makausap si Julie eh."

"Psh. Di ako naniniwala. He’s irrespo…" natigil naman sila sa paglalakad nang makita ang topic nila na
nakatayo at animo’y may tinitignan sa shelf ng spices.

"Si Elmo ba yan?" Maqui asked.

"Wit ko knows. Wait. Lapitan natin." lumapit nga sila rito and kinalabit ito.

"Maq! Sef!" gulat na sabi ni Elmo.

"What’re you doing here?" Maqui asked. Hindi naman sa nagdududa siya pero nakakapagtaka lang that
Elmo would be inside a grocery. Lalo na grocery na malayo sa condo nila ni Julie.

"Ha? A-ano sinamahan ko yung groupmate ko. Bibili kami ng food para may makain while doing the
model." sagot nito.

"Moses nakuha mo na yung cinammon?" nagulat sila when they saw a girl walking towards Elmo.

"Mokong, sinetch?" si Sef ang nagtanong.

"Hi! I’m Cheska. Moses’ friend." nakangiting sabi nito sabay tingin kay Elmo.

"Elmo?" sabi ni Maqui and looked at him as if asking him to explain.

"She’s my thesis partner." sagot nito.

"Talaga?"

"Yeah. We’re thesis partners." pagconfirm naman ng babae.

"Natawagan mo na ba si Tito Jonathan?" tanong uli ni Maqui while ignoring the girl beside her
bestfriend’s boyfriend. “How’s Julie!"

"Julie?" pagtataka ng kasama ni Elmo.

"Julie is Elmo’s girlfriend, Chestnut!" sabi ni Sef.

"Cheska." pagcorrect nito.

"Chesnut, Cheska. What’s the difference?!" mataray na sabi ni Sef. “Oh ano na Mokong? Natawagan mo
na ba si buntis?"

"Uhm. Yeah. According to papa okay naman siya." he answered.

"Well. If I were tito, I won’t cover up for her. Siguro naman Elmo you know what Julie really feels diba?
Anyway. Enjoy your ‘thesis making’ with Charice." sabi ni Maqui.
"Cheska!" iritang sabi ni Cheska.

"WHATEVER CHIPMUNK!!" sigaw ni Sef.

"Let’s go, Sef. I don’t want to breathe the same air as this guy who apparently forgot about his pregnant
girlfriend." sabi ni Maqui at saka na hinatak palayo si Sef. Sinenyasan naman ni Sef sina Elmo at Cheska
that he got his eyes on them. Samantalang si Elmo naman ay natahimik na lang.

"That was rude." Cheska commented after a few minutes.

"Let’s go." was all Elmo could say. Naglakad na sila ni Cheska papunta sa cashier para magbayad ng
pinamili nila. Bigla namang nawala sa mood si Elmo at agad namang napansin iyon ng kasama.

"Who is Julie?" Cheska asked. “Is she really your girlfriend?"

"Yeah."

"At buntis talaga siya?"

"Yes."

"Oooh. Siya pala yung girl sa Law department. Am I right?"

"Yes. Siya nga."

"She’s pretty. Bagay nga kayo."

"Thanks. Kaya lang she’s mad at me now. Di pa din kami okay since 2 weeks ago. Ayaw niya kong
kausapin and she doesn’t want to see me either."

"It’s okay, Moses. I’m here for you." at umakbay pa ito. Nginitian lang naman siya ni Elmo.

"Thanks, Ches."

*****

"Ganun na pala itsura ng may problema. Nagagawang maggrocery kasama ng ibang babae." sabi ni
Maqui.

"I know right?! Kajirits siya dun ha. I mean, di man lang ba niya inisip si Julieta at ang mga junakis niya?!
At yung mujer na yun ha. Ay friend! Chopseuy na flowering industry pa!" galit na sabi nito.

"Hay. Ewan ko sa kanya. Pero Sef, let us not tell this to Julie. She doesn’t need another heartache. And
besides, if Elmo said that they’re only thesis partners, then yun talaga sila. Basta wag na wag natin
babanggitin kay Julie yung nangyari sa grocery."
"Fine, fine. As if naman kasing I can take it if I see Julie hurting again diba. No way. Jombag saken yang
Magalona na yan if ever."

Nakarating na nga ang dalawa sa bahay nila Julie. They acted as if hindi nila nakita si Elmo. Ni hindi nga
nila nabanggit ang pangalan nito.

"Musta pagshopping niyo?" Julie asked.

"Ay girl. More more pa sa bago! Bibilan dapat kita ng dress kaya lang sa sobrang laki ng tummy mo, wit
magkakasya sayo. Hahahaha" kwento ni Sef.

"Hahaha. Oo nga. Tsaka gusto sana namin bilan yung kambal ng clothes. Kaya lang baka kasi di mo bet."
dagdag pa ni Maqui. They continued their act na sobra namang kinasaya nila because Julie didn’t ask
them questions. After hanging out, the two decided to go home. Medyo napasarap kasi ang kwentuhan
nila kaya di namalayan na gabi na pala.

"We’ll go ahead baby girl. Rarampa pa kami ni Marie. Haha."

"Haha. Osige na. Ingat kayo ha?" sabi niya.

"Bye, dear." and Maqui kissed her cheek.

"Bye. Thanks for coming over. Next time ulit?"

"Naman! Tayiz pa ba? Sige na friend. Maubusan pa kami ng papa. Pampadelay ka eh. Tara na, Marie!" at
hinatak na nga ni Sef si Maqui. “Bye tita! Bye tito! Gorabels na kami!!" at lumabas na ang dalawa ng
bahay.

*****

Maagang umuwi si Elmo dahil nga nawala na siya sa mood gumawa ng model nila. He missed Julie dahil
2 linggo na niya itong di nayayakap at di nahahalikan.

"Kailan ka ba uuwi?" he asked as he stared at his phone’s wallpaper. “Miss na kita mommy. Uwi ka na
saken please?" he said. Tumingin siya kay Sonny who became quiet simula nang umalis si Julie. “You
miss her too huh?" he asked. Kumahol lang naman ito as if answering his question. He carried his pet
and gave it a hug. "I miss her too, Sonny. So much." his dog whimpered and licked his face. Then an idea
came to his mind.

He drove to Julie’s subdivision. Determined that he would go back home with her. At determinado
siyang suyuin ito even if it takes forever. Nagdoorbell siya and the maid went out for him.

"Good evening manang. Si Julie po?"

"Ah, sir Elmo ano po kasi eh."

"Please manang. I need to see her."

"Sir baka po kasi mapagalitan ako."

"Ludy, sino yan?" paglingon ni Elmo ay nakita niya ang papa ni Julie.

"Pa, please. I just need to talk to her. Please po, papa." he begged.

"Son, gustuhin ko man but Julie told me not to let you see her."

"Papa, I’m begging you." naiiyak na sabi niya. Jonathan nodded and went back inside. Maya-maya ay si
Julie na ang lumabas. “Julie…"

"Go home, Elmo."

"Baby please talk to me naman oh. I’m sorry."

"Umuwi ka na Elmo." matigas na sabi ni Julie.

"No Julie. I won’t go home. Dito lang ako hanggang sa patawarin mo ko."

"Then starve yourself to death coz you’re just wasting your time here." at tinalikuran na siya nito at saka
na pumasok sa loob ng bahay nila. Elmo sat on the sidewalk as he cried.

*****

She’s been looking outside the window for what seemed like an eternity. As what he said, hindi nga ito
umuwi. Nag-aalala na si Julie dahil di pa ito tumatayo sa kinauupuan nito and he hasn’t had dinner.

"Ate kawawa naman si kuya." Joanna said.

"It’s his decision, JM. Di ko na kasalanan if di siya aalis diyan." at saka na siya lumayo sa bintana.

*****

She was reading a book but her mind was with Elmo. Nag-aalala na talaga siya.

"Umuwi na siguro yun. Di naman magsstay yun eh. He’s not that type of guy." she thought.

"Anak?" her mom said as she peeked through the door.

"Po?"

"Umuulan na. Basang-basa na si Elmo dun. I told him to go home but he insists on staying." Marivic said.
Bigla namang napatayo si Julie at agad-agad na nagmadaling bumaba.

"He’s still here?" she asked her father.

"Yes. Ang lakas na ng ulan. Di man lang siya tumatayo sa kinauupuan niya." Jonathan replied. She
immediately picked up an umbrella and went outside.

"Elmo!" sigaw niya. Tumayo naman agad si Elmo and went near the gate.

"Julie…"

"I told you to go home already. Look at you. Basang-basa ka na sa ulan." sabi niya.

"Julie… Sorry na. Please." sabi ni Elmo.

"Umuwi ka na. Baka magkasakit ka." she said. Nakita niyang nanginginig na si Elmo dahil sa lamig at
basang-basa na ito. “Please Moe?"

"No. I won’t go home without you, Julie. I won’t." Julie looked at him worriedly. Wala pa kasi itong kain,
basa ito sa ulan at nilalamig pa ito. She went outside at saka ito pinayungan.

"Halika sa loob." sabi niya at hinawakan ang kamay nito. They went inside their house at sinalubong
naman sila ni Marivic. Inabutan si Elmo ng twalya at saka pinaupo sa sofa. “Magbihis ka muna." she told
him. Pinahiram ni Jonathan ng damit si Elmo at saka na ito pinagbihis. After magpalit ay pinakain muna
siya.

"Julie please. Patawarin mo na ko. I won’t do it again." he said.

"Okay na Elmo. Okay na." she said and held his hand. “I’m sorry for being a stubborn too." and he
hugged him. Umiyak naman si Elmo habang yakap siya.

"I love you baby."

"I love you too."

"Sorry ulit." Elmo said.

"Oo na po. Bati na tayo ha?" and she looked at him and smiled. “Kiss mo na ko dali." she said at nginitian
pa ito ng nakakaloko. Agad naman siyang hinalikan ni Elmo at saka pa niyakap ng mahigpit. Tapos
bumaba ng konti si Elmo and kissed Julie’s tummy.

"I missed you babies. Miss niyo ba si daddy?" masayang tanong niya. At sakto namang sumipa ang
babies nila sa tiyan ni Julie. “Aww. They missed me daw mommy." he said as he looked up at Julie.

"Yeah. And namiss ka din daw ng mommy nila." nakangiting sabi ni Julie. Niyakap siya uli ni Elmo and
gave her chicken kisses. “Hahaha. Tama na Elmo. Baka maubos ako. Tsaka mahiya ka naman kanila
papa."

"Tulog na sila papa eh. Pwede na. Namiss ko baby ko eh." and kissed her again. “Uwi na tayo ha?"

"Yes. Uuwi na tayo."

CHAPTER 23.2

Simula nang magkabati sila Julie at Elmo ay mas naging maasikaso na ang huli sa girlfriend. He makes
sure na siya ang kasama nito sa lahat ng pupuntahan nito. Kahit pa gaano kabusy sa thesis ay
sinisigurado na ni Elmo that Julie will be his first priority.

"Defense mo na pala bukas no?" Julie said habang minamasahe ang balikat ni Elmo.

"Yeah. And kinakabahan ako." he confessed.

"Ano ka ba. Kaya mo yan. Ikaw pa ba?" sagot naman nito. "I'm sure you'll do great." dagdag pa niya.

"Haha. Thanks, baby. You really know how to take my anxiety away." at tumingala si Elmo to look at her.

"Sus. Daming alam." kinikilig na sabi ni Julie.

"It's true naman ah. Ikaw stress-reliever ko. Ikaw ang happy pill ko. Ikaw ang positive charge sa buhay
ko."

"Bumanat nanaman po siya. Kinakabahan ka nga dude." natatawang sabi ni Julie.

"Baka lang kasi makalusot. Hehe."

"All you have to do is ask, baby. Madali akong kausap. Di mo naman kailangan bumanat pa."

"Really? Sige nga. Kiss mo nga ako." sabi ni Elmo at saka pa nagpout. Julie smiled at saka na siya
hinalikan. "Haha. Oo nga no. Madali ka ngang kausap. Isa pa nga!" kinurot naman ni Julie ang lips niya at
saka tumawa.

"Sobra ka na ha. Halika na. Tulog na tayo. Maaga ka pa tomorrow." sabi niya.

"Fine. Tulog na tayo."

*****

Maagang nagising si Julie kinabukasan. She prepared Elmo's breakfast pati na rin ang susuotin nito for
his defense. She picked a blue long sleeved polo and khaki jeans dahil kitang-kita ang kagwapuhan nito
kapag iyon ang suot.

"Hm. Bango naman niyan." nagulat si Julie nang biglang may yumakap sa kanya from behind. "Good
morning baby ko." she turned and hugged him as well.
"Good morning baby." she said. Elmo kissed the tip of her nose and smiled. "Kain ka na ng breakfast."
Julie said.

"Kain na tayo." he said. Tumango naman si Julie and they sat on the bar stools at saka na kumain.
Sinusubuan ni Elmo si Julie and vice versa. Since the day Julie returned, Elmo has been extra sweet to
her.

"Nga pala baby, I prepared your clothes na ha." she said.

"Yeah. I saw it nga. Thanks. The best ka talaga." and he kissed her on the lips. "I love you. You know
that?"

"Yes. And I love you too." she replied.

After breakfast ay nagprepare na si Elmo for school. Kinakabahan siya dahil kapag di nila nadefend ng
maayos ang thesis ay uulit siya and hindi makakasabay sa graduation ng mga kaklase at kaibigan niya. He
sat on the edge of their bed habang nakatingin sa kawalan. Sakto naman ay pumasok si Julie sa kwarto.

"Oh. Bakit tulala ka diyan?"

"Kinakabahan talaga ako." lumapit naman si Julie and made him stand up. She fixed his polo and
brushed his hair with her fingers. "What did I tell you last night? Di mo kailangan kabahan. You can do it,
Moe. Show them what you got. Okay?" she said. Elmo hugged her and gave her chicken kisses.

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you." he said habang hinahalikan ang dalaga. "Wish me luck baby." he
said. Julie kissed him on the lips. Napangiti naman siya dahil dito at tuluyan na ngang nawala ang kaba
niya.

"Goodluck baby." she said. "Goodluck daddy." sabi niya pa while rubbing her tummy. Elmo sat on the
bed again to level his face on Julie's tummy.

"Thank you babies. Daddy loves you." and he kissed her tummy.

Nagpaalam na si Elmo at umalis na nga ito para pumasok.

Julie was reading books nang biglang dumating sina Maqui at Sef.

"Frieeeeeeeend!" Sef greeted her excitedly.

"Uy!" she said at saka niyakap ang dalawa. "I missed you guys!"

"We missed you too dear." Maqui replied. "Anyway, free day kasi namin pareho ni Sef. So we decided to
go here. Yayain ka sana namin eh."

"Where?" she asked.

"Sa coffee shop, dear."

"Okay. Let me take a bath first. Tapos alis na tayo."

"Yun eh. Pakisamahan na ng konting bilis, Julieta. Ayoko maghintay ng matagal." mataray na sabi ni Sef
habang kumakain ito ng cookies at yakap ang cookie jar ni Julie. "Infairness. Bet ko 'tong cookies mo girl
ha.”

"Haha. Expired na yan, Sef." bigla namang napaluwa si Sef sa sink. "Hahahahahahahahaha. Just kidding!
Baked those yesterday."

"Di tayo bati. F na f ko na eh. Bv ka!" and he took another cookie and shoved it in his mouth.

*****

"Ano bro? Ready na?" Derrick asked him. Tapos na kasi sila magdefense ni Kris at hinihintay na lang
matapos ang iba pang kabarkada.

"Dude kinakabahan ako. Si Arch. Bautista pa naman panel namin. You know how perfectionist that guy
is."

"Haha. Dude, perfectionist ka din. I'm sure kaya mo yan." Kris said.

"Moses, let's go." sabi ni Cheska at umangkla pa sa braso ni Elmo. Kris and Derrick looked at her na
parang naiirita. The truth is, they never liked that girl. Masyado itong clingy sa kaibigan kahit pa alam na
nitong may girlfriend si Elmo at buntis pa ito.

"Goodluck, bro! Alam mo na!!" Derrick said and patted him on the shoulder.

"Hintayin ka na lang namin sa canteen pare. Ingat ha. INGAT." Kris added. Elmo nodded at saka na
naglakad papunta sa defense room nila.

Di pa sila ang tinatawag dahil napaaga sila ng 10 minutes and the first group isn't finished with their
defense yet. Hindi mapakali si Elmo. His hands were clammy at nanlalamig ang pawis niya.

"You okay, Moses?" Cheska asked.

"Y-yeah. Medyo kinakabahan lang talaga ako."

"Aww. Cute. Okay lang yan. I'm here naman eh." she said and held his hand. Agad namang nilayo ni
Elmo ang kamay niya at naglakad ng palayo. He dialled Julie's number and waited for her to answer.

"Hello?"

"Baby..."

"Oh. Baby, why'd you call? Tapos na ba defense mo? How was it?"

"No. I'm not done yet. But next na kami. I just wanna hear your voice. Sobra nanaman kaba ko eh."
"Aww. Baby boy that's okay. You can do it. I told you diba? Genius ang baby ko. Magaling ka kaya di ka
dapat kabahan. I'm here for you." napangiti naman si Elmo sa narinig. Julie really is his anxiety-reliever.
"Osige na. Baka tawagin na kayo. Goodluck baby. I love you. Ethan and Eloise loves you."

"And I love you more. Thank you ulit ha? I'll see you later."

"Okay. Bye."

"Bye." and he ended the call.

*****

They were at the coffeeshop at nagkukwentuhan sila. Namiss nilang tatlo yung ganitong bonding. Yung
gaya ng dati.

"Bakit tumawag si Mokong?" Sef asked.

"Wala. Kinakabahan dahil sa defense."

"Hahaha. Kawawang human being." natatawang sabi ni Sef.

"Julie kilala mo ba yung groupmate niya sa defense?" Maqui asked.

"Yeah. Sila Derrick." she answered.

"Really? Sila talaga?"

"Oo naman, Maq. Bakit?"

"Uhm. Wala wala. Alam ko kasi kapag thesis by partners lang."

"No. Group of 5 daw sila sabi niya."

"Sabi mo eh." Maqui said and took a sip from her frappe.

"Hoy Marie, infairview sayo ha. Ikaw ata ang nega ditey sa ating dalawa. Nyare?!"

"Gaga. Napaisip lang kasi ako. Naalala mo nung ano." bulong ni Maqui.

"Ang alin?" Julie asked. Nawiweirduhan kasi siya sa biglang mga tanong ng bestfriend.

"Ay! Oo nga friend. Tama tama. Oo nga." sabi naman ni Sef.

"Hoy. Ano yun?" Julie asked again.

"Wala yun, mare. Chinacharot lang akiz nitey ni Marie." palusot naman nito.
"Whatever." was all she said. Nagtinginan na lang naman ang dalawa at palihim na nagsikuhan.

*****

A week has passed after his defense at ngayon nila malalaman kung sino ang nakapasa and kung sino
ang hindi. They were all gathered outside the dean's office dahil dun daw ipopost ang results. Para silang
naghihintay ng resulta ng board exam. Lahat kinakabahan. After what seemed to be an eternity ay may
lumabas na hawak ang isang papel. The guy posted the paper and pagkaalis niya ay parang sale na
dinumog ang papel.

Elmo looked at it and scanned the paper. Kinakabahan siya. But lahat yun ay nawala when he saw his
name.

Magalona, Elmo Moses A. on the list of passers and candidates for graduation.

"YAHOOOOOOO!!!" he shouted.

"Ano bro?!" Derrick asked.

"Pasado pare!!!! Gagraduate na ko!!"

"Parehas tayo dude!!!" nagyakapan ang magbabarkada at saka pa naghigh five.

"Ano guys? This calls for a celebration." Steven suggested.

"Oo ba!!" they all agreed. They decided to invite all the other passers. Sobrang saya nilang lahat dahil
after all the sleepless nights, finally makakagraduate din sila.

*****

"Julieta, sasama ka ba sa amin or what?" Sef asked over the phone.

"Di na muna Sef. Medyo masakit ulo ko eh. Napagod ata ako kakalinis dito sa condo. You guys enjoy na
lang ha? Send my regards to Kuya Frank." she said. Kakauwi lang kasi ni Frank galing sa business trip nito
sa Singapore and since he missed his girlfriend, nagyaya itong magcelebrate sa isang bar. Kasama sana si
Julie kaya lang masama nga ang pakiramdam nito kaya hindi na lang sumama.

"Anong sabi ni Julie?" Maqui asked.

"Waley. Headache ang peg ng lola mo. Kaya third wheel muna akiz sa inyo." he replied.

"Haha. Okay lang Sef. Let her rest. I'm sure naman andun kapatid ko to take care of her." Frank said.

"Baka nga. Tara na. Yung body ko ready na pumarty!" pagyaya ni Sef.

Nagpunta sila sa isang sikat na bar sa The Fort. Masaya ang tatlo dahil alive na alive ang ambiance ng bar
at madami ang tao.
"Uyuy! Sila Derrick ba yun?" Maqui asked nang makita ang kaibigan sa kabilang part ng bar.

"Oo nga no." sabi ni Sef. "Teka nga.Oh my gee!!! Marie Frencheska si..." tinuro ni Sef ang nakita niya and
sinundan naman ng mga kasama kung saan ang tinuturo niya. Nagulat si Maqui lalo na si Frank sa nakita.
He walked towards the group and tapped the person involved. Paglingon nito ay agad siyang sinuntok ni
Frank dahilan para bumagsak siya sa floor. Bigla namang natahimik sa bar and all eyes were on them.

"What the?!" the guy said.

"Shit ka Elmo! What do you think you're doing huh?!" he asked furiously. Yes. It was his brother. And
what made him mad was because Elmo was kissing... another girl.

"Frank?!" gulat na sabi nito while trying to get up. "What are you doing here?"

"I should be the one asking you that. Akala ko ba nagbago ka na? Ano to?!"

"It wasn't what you think it is, bro."

"Talaga?! Hindi ba kagaguhan yung nakita kong may hinahalikan kang babae while your girlfriend is at
home waiting for you?!" galit na tanong niya. "Wow bro! Just wow!" inis na sabi nito.

"Frank tama na." pagpigil ni Maqui.

"No, Maq. Kahit kapatid ko to I won't tolerate this bullshit." he said and punched Elmo again. "Wag na
wag kang magpapakita sa akin. Sinasabi ko sayo Elmo." after what he said ay niyaya na niyang umalis sila
Maqui at Sef.

*****

It was 3am nang makarinig si Julie ng katok. She stood up and sleepwalked towards the front door and
was surprised to see who her visitors are.

"Kuya. What brings you here?" she asked nang makita sina Frank, Maqui and Sef.

"Julie we need to talk." Frank replied. Agad namang kinabahan si Julie sa sinabi nito sa kanya. She let
them in and they all sat in the sala.

"Kuya ano yun? Kinakabahan naman ako sa inyo." sabi niya.

"I'm sorry Julie. But I think you have to know this talaga. Hindi ko kaya na pagmumukhain kang tanga ng
kapatid ko."

"K-kuya di kita maintindihan."

"Jules. We saw him..." Maqui started.

"Saw him what?"

"We saw him at the bar, friend. And uhm..." si Sef.

"Julie I'm sorry pero wala namang ibang way para sabihin to na hindi ka magugulat. We saw Elmo at the
bar kissing another girl..." the moment she heard those words ay para bang nadurog ang puso niya.

"W-what?" she asked as tears began to fall. Maqui went to her side and hugged her tightly.

"We're really sorry kung sa amin pa nanggaling. Ayaw ko lang magmukha kang tanga, Julie because I
treat you as my sister." Frank said as he held Julie's hand.

"K-kuya..." umiyak na si Julie at saka na siya niyakap ng mga kaibigan. Masakit oo. Dahil akala niya after
ng nangyari noon ay hindi na magloloko si Elmo. But she was wrong. At mas doble pa ang sakit dahil sa
tuwing iniisip niya lahat ng sweetness ni Elmo these past weeks ay para bang naiisip niya that everything
was for show lang. Para matakpan lang lahat ng panloloko ni Elmo. And siya namang si tanga na
nagpaloko kaya ngayon sobrang nasasaktan siya.

The three decided to accompany her through the night. Binantayan lang nila ang kaibigan na wala pa
ring tigil sa pag-iyak.

"Jules, makakasama sa baby yan." Sef said.

"Ang sakit kasi eh. Akala ko okay na uli kami. Yun pala niloloko niya lang ako." and she cried. Sa totoo
lang, wala na siyang luha na mailabas pero hindi pa rin naiibsan ang sakit sa puso niya. Nagulat sila when
the front door opened and Elmo entered the unit. They all became quiet habang si Elmo naman ay
tahimik lang rin na nakatingin sa kanila. Gusto niyang saktan si Elmo. Gusto niyang sampalin. But she
chose to give him the silent treatment. To hurt him silently.

"Labas muna kami Jules. We'll just buy food para makakain ka ng breakfast." Maqui said at niyaya na
sina Frank at Sef na lumabas.

It took a whole 15 minutes na nagtititigan lang sila Julie at Elmo.

"Julie..." he said and tried to reach for her.

"Don't come near me."

"Let me explain please." hindi naman kumibo si Julie. "I was really drunk last night. Di ko alam na Cheska
was doing that to me." he said. "Makinig ka naman sa akin baby. Please?" umiiyak na sabi ni Elmo.

"Pagod na ko, Moe. Pagod na pagod na kong pakinggan yung mga reasons mong baluktot. Pagod na
pagod na kong intindihin ka. Pagod na pagod na kong hintayin ka. Pagod na pagod na ko, Elmo." she
said. Tears shedding from her eyes. Nasasaktan si Elmo sa nakikita niya. Ayaw niyang ganito si Julie. Pero
ano nga bang magagawa niya kung alam niyang mali talaga siya? "Moe, let's give each other some
space. Ayokong dumating sa point na mapapagod akong mahalin ka. Ayokong dumating sa point na galit
ako sayo at ilalayo ko ang mga anak natin sayo. Moe, kahit space lang. Please?" she asked.

"Julie wag ganito. Ayusin natin to please?"

"Ayusin mo muna sarili mo Elmo. Kapag alam mo na sa sarili mo that you are a responsible man and that
you can be a responsible dad, hindi naman kita itataboy eh. Kasi mahal kita. Mahal na mahal kita that it
hurts seeing our relationship come to this point. Nakakasawa na kasi Moe eh. Ako na lang ba palagi ang
maghihintay? Ako na lang ba palagi ang iintindi?"

"Julie please. Baby please wag naman ganito. Di ko kaya." he said. Pareho na silang umiiyak nun.
Parehong nasasaktan. Parehong durog ang puso.

"Para sa baby natin to Elmo. Kung tayo talaga, tayo talaga. Sa ngayon, kailangan muna natin ng time
para makapag-isip. Mahal kita alam mo yan. Pero kung palagi na lang ganito, baka magsawa ako until I
come to that point where I will fall out of love with you."

Chapter 24

Gabi gabing laman ng bar si Elmo. He drowns himself with liquor just so he can forget all the pain he
feels inside. Masakit. Sobrang nasasaktan siya that Julie decided to break up with him.

“She gave up on me. Alam mo ba how painful that is?” he was drunk already at kausap niya ang
bartender na naging kaibigan na rin niya. “Mahal ko siya eh. Kaya lang gago ako. Gago ako.”

"Eh sir, malay mo naman kaya nagawa niya lang yun kasi ayaw na niya na parehas kayong masaktan?"

“Ha! That’s what she said. Sabi niya kailangan namin to. Kasi daw nasasaktan lang kami pareho and she
doesn’t want to come to the point na di na niya ako mahal…” umiyak nanaman siya. “Ang sakit. Ang
gago ko kasi, Chuck eh. Gago ako. Di ko inisip na I’ll be having a family already. I took her for granted. I
took my family for granted. Hindi ko sila inisip. All I ever think about was myself. Ako. Ako. Ako. Kasi
gago ako.”

After niya sa bar ay umuwi na siya. It was 6am when he arrived at his condo. Yes. He was back in his
condo dahil ayaw din naman niya na madagdagan pa yung sakit if he insists on staying in Julie’s unit.
Before he entered his unit, matagal muna niyang tinitigan ang pinto sa unit ni Julie. He wanted to knock
on her door. He wanted to talk to her. He wanted to tell her how sorry he was. He wanted to tell her
how much he loves her and how painful it is that they are not okay.

“I miss you, Julie.” he said. He wiped a stray tear from his eye and took a deep breath as he entered his
home. He can’t even call it a home dahil nga wala naman dun si Julie. He went to bed and again, cried
himself to sleep.

*****

She wanted to open her door and hug the guy outside. Oo. Nakasilip siya through the peephole and she
saw that Elmo was staring at her door and was crying. Alam niyang galing nanaman ito sa bar. Lagi kasi
itong wala kapag gabi and umaga na uuwi. Lasing pa. Pero kahit gaano niya kagustong yakapin ito at
patawarin, kailangan pigilan niya ang sarili.
“You have to grow up, Moe. You have to be more responsible.” she said. Pinunasan niya ang luha na
kunawala nanaman sa mata niya. “Mahal na mahal kita. Pero ang sakit-sakit na kasi.” sabi niya. Nakita
niyang pumasok na si Elmo sa unit nito kaya naman lumayo na rin siya sa peephole. She looked around
her unit and napaluha na lang siya. “Miss na miss na kita Moe.”

Her home. Simula nang maghiwalay sila ni Elmo, nawalan na ng buhay ang condo niya. She could
imagine him sitting on the couch while watching NBA. Or him sitting in front of his drafting table looking
oh so cute habang nagdadraft. Naiyak nanaman siya. Masakit para sa kanya that she has to break up
with him pero kailangan nila yun. For him to grow up.

“Julietaaaaaa!!” nagulat siya nang marinig ang boses ni Sef. She looked at the front door and saw him
standing there with paperbags in hand.

“What are you doing here?” she asked habang nagpupunas ng luha.

“Ay. Di na ko welcome ditey? Ay. Okay fine. Gorabambam na lang akiz somewhere. Mamamalimos
siguro akiz ng attention and everything. Tapos magiging poorita ever na ko. Tapos I’ll die because of
hunger.” pagddrama nito.

“Ang arte lang? Hahaha. Joke lang bakla. Nagulat lang ako na andito ka. I thought may class ka pa kasi.”
Sef looked at her na para bang isa siyang unknown species. “What?”

“Okay ka lang girl? Mej Linggo kasi today. Tapos waley pasok.”

“Really? Sunday ngayon?” she asked.

“Ewan ko sayo. More pa sa crying lady. Kalurkey ka.” sagot nito at saka pa umupo sa sofa. “Tama na nga
kakaiyak. You look ugly na oh. Ay. Panget ka na nga pala. Ako nga pala pinakamaganda. Bwahahahaha.”
he said. Napailing na lang si Julie at napaupo sa tabi nito.

“I miss him na, bakla.” she said habang nakatingin sa kawalan.

“I know. Ikaw pa ba?”

“Ang sakit pala no? You love each other pero dahil nga sa mga nangyayari, you have to let each other go
so that both of you will learn.”

“Friend, andyan lang siya sa tapat ng unit mo. Bakit di kayo mag-usap?”

“Ayoko muna. Kailangan niya rin yan.” she answered.

“Hmp. Ewan ko sayo. Dramaneching ever so bongga tapos ganun. Wharrahell.”

“Che. Eh bakit ka ba andito?” Tanong ni Julie rito.

“Eh kasi girl usapan namin ni Maqui, makikipag-girl bonding kami sayo, may masama ba don ha
atembang?”
“So where is she?”

“Ayun sinusundo siya ng supposedly brother-in-law mo haha!”

“Ewan ko sayo, Josefa! Nakakastress forevs ka talaga!” Sabay pingot sa baklang kaibigan.

“Ang pikon mo masyado tahday infairview ha? Alam mo yung joke, atembang?” Natatawang sabi nito.

“Eh kasi naman you’re not helping eh, isa pa yang si Maqui.”

“At bakit ko naririnig ang maganda kong name ha?” At bigla ngang dumating ang taong pinaguusapan
nila.

“Ay, speaking of the supposedly brother-in-law’s girlfriend, anditey na ang lovers.

“Why? Whats wrong, Jules?” Maqui asked.

“Wala friend, nagaasaran lang kami ni Sef about Kuya Frank.”

“Bakit?”

“Eh kasi nga di ba? Break na sila ng jowawa niya so ayan, nagdadrama ang merlat na itey na kasama mo
ang ex-brother-in-law niya?” Singit na paliwanag ni Sef sa mga kaibigan.

“Hey, Jules sorry if I have to come with Maqui ha? Pinapadala kasi ni Mommy ‘tong mga fruits na ‘to and
she wants me to know how is he doing. Sorry talaga.” Frank said.

“Alam mo Sef napakadaldal mo talaga. Hay. Kuya Frank, sorry ha? It’s just that siguro naisip ko lang kung
ano yung makakatulong sa pagmomove on ko. Anyways, please tell Mommy Pia na thank you for all of
these. I don’t know, alam ko late na siya umuwi and as usual he was so drunk.”

“Oh see girl, alam mo pa rin. Paano kasi you’re still checking on him. Eh paano ka makakamove on niyan
aber?” Sef annoyingly asked.

“I saw him eh, thru the peephole. And syempre Sef, di mo naman kasi maaalis sakin na wag siya
alalahanin.”

“You two, enough. Julie makakasama sayo yan and for Ethan and Eloise eh. Ikaw naman na stress causer
pwede bang tantanan mo muna si buntis. Halika, magluto na lang tayo ng lunch natin.” Pagpigil ni Maqui
sa dalawang kaibigan.

“Ah, hon, puntahan ko lang siya ha? Excuse muna.” Pagpapaalam ni Frank.

*****

Hinayaan muna nila Maqui and Sef na matulog si Julie. Naisipan nilang magluto muna para sa lunch
nilang lahat ng biglang bumalik muli si Frank.
“This is getting worse than ever.” Napapailing na sabi ni Frank.

“Ha? What do you mean hon?” Nagtatakang tanong naman ni Maqui.

“Di ko alam kung pumasok ba ko sa basurahan or what eh? Yung unit ni Moe, sobrang sabog pati yung
may-ari, sabog na. Ang gulo gulo gulo sa loob non. Ginising ko siya sabi ko ayusin niya yung sarili niya.
Pero wala, hindi niya ko pinakinggan. And I really don’t know what to do with him. I feel so sorry for
him.” Frank said sadly.

“Grabe na talaga ‘to. Balikan mo siya don. And pilitin mo siya ayusin yung sarili niya. Pag nalaman pa yan
ni Julie, lalo lang magagalit yon. Sige na, we’ll finish this one lang. And dalhin mo na rin siya rito so that
he can eat. Pero tell him na ayusin niya muna yung sarili niya ha?” Habang hawak hawak ni Maqui ang
kamay ng boyfriend.

“Baka magalit si Julie. Ayain ko na lang siya to eat lunch somewhere.”

“Wag na, para naman umayos ayos siya no. Go, wake him up and let him fix himself.” Sabay tulak kay
Frank papuntang pintuan.

*****

Nagising si Julie sa mabangong naaamoy niya. Kaya naman tumayo siya agad at pumunta sa kusina.

“Uy, wakey wakey na si jontis.” Masayang sabi ni Sef.

“Julie dear, sakto yung gising mo. Tara, let’s have lunch na?” Maqui invited her to sit.

“Nagising ako eh. Ang bango kasi. So, what’s for lunch?”

“Sinigang na hipon friend.”

“May hangover kasi yung bisita mong darating kaya ayan ang naisipan naming iluto.”

Julie gave Sef a strange look and she was to say something kaya lang biglang may dumating.

“Hon, we’re here na. Sorry ah, sobrang hirap niyang gisingin eh. Tsaka medyo bumagal kumilos.” Frank
said. Nagulat naman si Julie na makita ang kasama ni Frank. Gwapo pa rin ‘to kahit halatang bangag pa
at sobrang lalim ng eyebags, mukha ring pumayat at maputla.

“Julie, sorry if sinama ko siya dito. Ang gulo kasi ng unit niya tapos wala siyang stock. Sabi ko kay Maqui,
sa labas na lang kami kakain kasi nakakahiya sayo. Sorry talaga, pwede pa naman kaming umalis.”

“Okay lang Kuya Frank. I think he needs this. Sige dito na lang kayo.” The truth is naaawa siya sa itsura ni
Elmo and at the same time naiinis siya rito dahil sa pagpapabaya nito sa sarili niya. “Hay nako, Elmo why
do you have to be like this? Di mo ba alam na nahihirapan ako to see you like this. Hay.” Sabi nito sa
sarili.
Magkatapat silang dalawa. Tahimik silang pareho.

“Grabe, nasa simbahan ba tayo or baka naman sa library? Mga teh, ang tahimik masyado ng
nakakabingi. Uso magsalita or baka naman sobrang sarap lang ng luto namin ni Maqui?” Pambabasag ni
Sef sa katahimikan ng lahat.

“Lakas mo magbuhat ng bangko talaga no, Sef? Pero infairness it’s good. Sakto sa hangover ko.” Elmo
said blankly.

“More pa kasi sa inom Elmokong. Ano ba napapala mo dyan ha? Eh look oh ang haggardo versoza mo
na. Eww!” Panloloko ni Sef kay Elmo.

“Ganon talaga Sef. Gusto ko makalimot eh. Gusto ko maging manhid para di ko maramdaman yung
sakit.” Sabay tingin kay Julie na para bang gusto niyang maiyak. Julie didn’t look at him alam niya na
nakatingin ito sakanya. She just continued eating.

“Paka-emo mo, Elmokong.”

“I’m just telling the truth. Di ko na alam gagawin ko. Di ko na alam ang gagawin ko. Julie, di ko na alam
gagawin ko para lang mapatawad mo ko.”

“Elmo, stop. Don’t make a scene please.” Pagsuway ni Frank sa kapatid. “Julie, sorry sa sinabi niya.” he
added.

“Okay lang, Kuya.” And she smiled as if nothing happened.

“Sorry, Julie.” Elmo said. Julie just shook her head.

They all continued eating their lunch. Nagulat naman silang lahat sa ginawa ni Elmo, pinagbabalat niya
si Julie ng hipon, pinipigilan ito ni Julie nung una pero dahil ayaw tumigil ng binata, hinayaan na rin niya.
Natatawa naman sila Maqui, Sef at Frank sa ginagawa ng dalawa.

“Frank, samahan mo ko mamaya.”

“Saan naman?”

“Basta. Uhm, Julie may gusto ka bang dessert?”

Nagulat si Julie nang tinanong siya ni Elmo. “Wala, okay lang ako. Bawal rin ako ng too sweets.”

“Hmm, sige. Kayo ba wala ba kayong papabili? Wala naman kayong gagawin this Sunday afternoon di
ba? Mag-movie marathon na lang tayo.” Elmo invited them.

“At saan naman aber? Kung makapagaya ka namang lalaki ka?” Sef asked.

“Hmm, okay lang ba Julie if dito na lang? Magulo pa kasi sa unit ko eh.”
“Eh bakit kaya di mo na lang ayusin yung unit mo tapos don mo gawin yung trip mo? Nakakalimutan mo
yata na hiwalay na tayo.”

“Sorry. Sige, di ko naman…”

“Sige, kayo bahala. Basta wag kayong maingay, wag niyo kong iistorbohin don sa kwarto.” Sabay
derecho sa kwarto.

“Di pa rin talaga ako kayang tiisin ni Julie no?” Nangingiti-ngiting sabi ni Elmo.

“Asa ka naman boy!” Maqui sai.

Yes, they’ve decided na mag-movie marathon pero they made sure na hindi sila mag-iingay masyado
dahil takot silang magalit si Julie sa kanila lalong lalo na si Elmo.

Maaga rin nag-ayang umuwi si Maqui dahil may pasok pa siya kinabukasan while Elmo has decided na
magpaiwan sa condo ni Julie para linisin ang kinalat nilang magkakaibigan.

“Ang dami mong alam Elmokong! Babawi ka lang talaga kay Julieta! Goodluck na lang sayo! Sige na,
babush na!”

“Sige, bro una na kami. Linisin mong mabuti yan tsaka pati yung unit mo please lang. Mahiya ka naman
kay Julie.”

“Oo na, oo na. Alis na kasi para masimulan ko na mamaya magising pa yung isa maabutan pa ko rito
baka magwala.”

*****

Pagkaalis ng tatlo, Elmo cleaned up their mess first at naisipan na rin niyang ipagluto ng dinner si Julie.
He made Korean Beef Broccoli and Classic Egg Salad. After he cooked, he washed all the things he used.
Inayos na rin niya sa dining table ni Julie ang mga ito and he left a note.

“Goodevening, Mommy. I made you this. Sorry ah pinakialaman ko na yung stocks mo. Hope you like it. I
miss you a lot and I love you. Please sleep early, okay? Mwa!

PS: Hinding-hindi ako magsasawang suyuin ka hanggang sa mapatawad mo ko.”

He checked on her. Nakita niyang tulog na tulog pa ito kaya nilapitan niya ito at inayos ang kumot nito
at gave her a peck on her forehead and a tear fell from his eyes and he whispered, “Sleepwell my
princess. I love you. I miss you as well as the twins.” And he left.

*****

Julie opened her eyes and a tear fell from it. Yes, gising siya nung ginawa ni Elmo yon. Her body froze
when he kissed her. Gusto niya itong yakapin at halikan rin pero she stopped herself from doing that
pagkaalis nito, she woke up and checked her whole unit. She saw how clean it was. And lalo niyang
kinagulat ang nakita niyang pagkain sa kanyang dining table. She saw also Elmo’s note on the side. She
smiled after she read it. And looked wow-ed with the foods he cooked.

“I know na masarap ‘to. Si Elmo nagluto eh. And he is still the sweetest.” Sabi nito sa sarili niya.

So she started eating. “Hmm, ang sarap. Hay namiss ko talaga yung luto mo, Elmo.” At lalo niyang
ninamnam ang pagkain nito. Naisipan niyang itext ito para magpasalamat, pero she hesistated. Mas
gusto niya sana ito makausap ng personal dahil namimiss niya makita ang ngiti, titig at amoy nito.

After she washed all the dishes, naisipan niya ng katukin si Elmo sa unit nito para makausap ito. Saktong
napasilip siya sa peephole ng pintuan niya ng matanaw niyang palabas si Elmo ng unit nito at nakabihis.

“Saan na naman kaya punta ng lalaking ‘to? 8pm na ah? For sure bar na naman. Hay, sayang Elmo. Kung
alam mo lang…” She said to herself. She just went inside her room and dialed her Mom’s number.

Julie: Hi Ma.

J’s Mom: Oh anak napatawag ka? Okay ka lang ba dyan?

Julie: Namiss ko lang po kayo.

J’s Mom: C’mon tell me, Anak. Hindi lang yan ang itinawag mo. Anong nangyari?

Julie told her Mom what had happened the whole day…

J’s Mom: Anak, malay mo naman may lakad lang siya. Di naman siguro niya gagawin lahat ng yon kung
babalik lang din pala siya sa dati. Pagdasal mo na lang na magkaayos kayo lalo na’t malapit ka ng
manganak. And don’t think too much, anak. Wag ka masyado maistress.

Julie: Kasi naman, Ma. Gusto ko pa man din siya kausapin about sa pagluto niya ng dinner, tapos ayun
lang yung makikita ko. Hay. Sorry po, Ma.

J’s Mom: You don’t have to say sorry. Sige na, get some sleep na. Magagalit pa yang si Elmo pag
nalaman niyang late ka na naman matutulog. He has his ways to know. Hehe.

Julie: Tinatawagan niya kayo no? Tapos ibabalita niyo sa kanya? Pero okay lang po, kesa naman talagang
mawalan siya ng pakialam samin ng kambal niya. Sige po, Ma. Goodnight na po. Salamat po sa pakikinig
sa akin. Miss you all over there. Ingat po kayo dyan ha?

J’s Mom: Anak, mahal ka niya eh kaya he’ll do anything para lang malaman how you’ve been and the
babies. You’re still lucky to have him. Nagkamali man siya, mukha namang pinagsisisihan na niya eh.
Pero syempre if you’re ready to accept him again, much better. Sige na, goodnight anak at sa mga
magiging apo ko. Dalawin ka namin dyan soon. Mag-iingat ka ha?

Julie: Opo, Ma. Kayo rin po. I love you, Ma. Thank you po ulit.

J’s Mom: Mahal ka rin naman, anak.

Julie ended the call. She felt kinda relieved with that convo with her mom. And she went back to sleep.

*****

Elmo had decided na pumunta sa groceries. After niya maglinis ng unit niya, nakita niya na wala pa lang
kalaman-laman ang fridge niya. Naisipan na rin niyang palitan yung mga pinakialaman niyang stock ni
Julie and he planned to sneak out to her unit mamaya para magluto naman ng breakfast. Nasa kanya pa
rin kasi ang spare key ng dalaga. Ibabalik na sana niya kanina ito.

Pagkatapos niya mag-grocery, dumaan muna siya sa coffee shop na favorite hangout ni Julie. And
bought a dessert for her. Her favorite of course, oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. He called Julie’s Mom.
Nalaman niya mula rito na nagustuhan pala ni Julie ang niluto niya kanina. Pati na rin ang balak nitong
kausapin siya. Lalo naman siyang ginanahan na ituloy yung naging plano niya, dahil nararamdaman niya
ang chances na magkausap at magkaayos silang dalawa.

Umuwi muna siya sa unit niya para matulog ng sandali, doon na rin niya naisipang magluto para di na
niya magising si Julie. At 6’o clock he sneaked out to her unit. Nag-ninja moves siya para di
maramdaman ni Julie na may ibang tao sa unit niya. He left her breakfast sa table ng kwarto ni Julie.
Nag-iwan rin siya rito ng tatlong orange tulips.

He watched her sleeping. Namimiss niya ito lalo. Namimiss niya ang maamong mukha nito. Her kisses
and hugs. Ang paglalambing nito. Sobrang namimiss niya lahat ng ‘to. Gumalaw bigla si Julie, kaya
lumabas siya agad agad ng kwarto nito. Iniwan na lamang niya ang spare key sa table na malapit sa pinto
ng unit ni Julie.

*****

Naalimpungatan si Julie dahil ang pakiramdam niya ay may nanonood sakanya habang natutulog. As she
opened her eyes, may narinig siyang nagsara ng pinto, tatayo na sana siya ng bigla namang tumunog ang
kanyang phone.

“Ang aga namang magtext. Sino kaya ‘to?” As she reached out for her phone on the side table.

“Goodmorning, Mommy. Sorry kung nagising kita. I made Spinach, tomato and cheese omelette,
yogurt with oranges and banana berry smoothie. And dumaan ako kagabi sa favorite coffee shop mo,
and bought your favorite. Hope you’ll like it baby. Ubusin mo yan ha? I love you and I really miss you
and our babies.”

Julie smiled after she read it and she even saw her favorite flower. Pero dahil naisip niya na baka
bumabawi lang talaga ito dahil nga gumimik na naman ito kagabi kung kaya’t nawala agad ang ngiti sa
kanyang mga labi. Di na rin niya nireplyan si Elmo. Kinain na lang niya ito.

*****

Halos araw araw nakakareceive ng text si Julie mula kay Elmo. At kung ano ano naman ang pinapadeliver
nito sa unit niya, ngunit sadyang nagmamatigas si Julie. Ni isang “thank you” wala siyang sinabi man lang
kay Elmo.
Samantalang si Elmo naman, masaya sa kanyang mga ginagawang pagsuyo kay Julie. Aminado siya
minsan na pakiramdam na niya eh talagang balewala na lang ito kay Julie, pero he doesn’t want to give
up.

One day, Julie just got irritated with what Elmo keeps on doing. Kaya di niya napigilan ang sarili niya na
katukin ito sa unit niya.

“Elmo, pwede bang tigilan mo na ko? Nakakairita na yung mga kung ano anong dumadating sa unit ko.
Pag aalis ako, kung ano ano yung dumarating sa kung saan man ako nandoon. Are you that really numb
ha? Nakikita mo na nga na I don’t give any damn about this. Pwede ba tama na? Oo kinikilig ako nung
una, pero ang OA mo na eh. Enough please. Patahimikin mo muna ko, paano ako magiisip kung wala
kang ginawa kundi ganyan. So, please stop.” Sabay talikod.

Natulala na lang si Elmo sa mga sinabi sa kanya ni Julie. Akala niya naappreciate ito ng dalaga pero
parang balewala na lang talaga lahat sa kanya. Ganon ba talaga kalaki yung kasalanan niya para
ipagtabuyan siya ni Julie ng ganon ganon lang.

Julie was supposed to open her condo’s door when Elmo started to talk.

“Ginagawa ko ‘to kasi gusto ko ‘to. Gusto ko iparamdam sayo na ikaw lang talaga yung mahal ko, pero
parang di mo pala naappreciate ng lahat ng yon. Ni isang “thank you” wala akong narinig from you. Pero
hinayaan ko, I wasn’t expecting this from you. Ako pa pala napasama sa ginagawa kong pagsuyo sayo,
gusto ko lang naman iparamdam sayo that I’m here, never kita iiwan. Pero dahil sayo na nanggaling,
sige, para matahimik ka na, I’ll stop. Sorry kung mahal kita, sorry kung mahal na mahal kita ng sobra.
Hindi ko lang talaga kayang di iparamdam sayo. Sige na pumasok ka na sa condo mo, gabi na matulog ka
na. Sorry ulit and goodnight.”

And then a tear fell from Julie’s eyes. Di niya akalain na mangyayari yon, she doesn’t mean that way. Pag
harap niya sa pintuan ng condo ni Elmo, nakasara na ito.

*****

Elmo slumped to his bed. He’s hurt. Sobra. He can’t accept the fact na ganon na si Julie. Di niya na
maintindihan, wala na nga siyang ginawa kundi suyuin ito pero parang wala, balewala talaga. Di niya
alam kung ano na ang gagawin niya. He got his phone and called some of his friends.

*****

Nasa veranda sila ng bahay nila Kris. Elmo called the YOLO boys. And game naman ang mga ito dahil
ramdam nila that Elmo needed them.

“Bro, what happened?” Steven asked.

“Julie happened.” Elmo answered.

“Malamang. Sa kanya ka lang naman nagkakaganyan. Ang ibig sabihin namin, anong nangyari na naman
sainyong dalawa? Eh nagpapakaloverboy ka nga ilang linggo na.” tanong naman ni Derrick.
“Yon. Yon ang naging problema namin. Bigla bigla na lang siyang kumatok sa pinto ng unit ko para
sabihing tigilan ko na raw yung ginagawa kong panunuyo sa kanya. Di ko alam kung bakit ba bigla siyang
nagkaganyan. Akala ko magpapasalamat lang siya or even makikipagbati na siya, yon pala isusumbat
niya sakin yon.” Sabay inom sa hawak nitong beer.

“Ganon talaga, Moe. Maybe she just got pissed off, sabi namin sayo suyuin mo pero di naman ganon.
We can’t do anything about that, let her be. Hayaan mo muna siyang magpahinga from you. Malay mo
mamiss ka non. Hayaan mo rin siya muna makapag-isip.” Alden suggested.

“Di ko na talaga alam. Gusto ko lang naman mapafeel sa kanya na nandito lang ako parati, nakakapagod
na rin pala. Sige, kung yon ang gusto niya hahayaan ko muna siya. Cheers!”

*****

Ilang araw na sumisilip si Julie sa peephole niya at inaabangan ang pagdating ni Elmo. Pagkatapos ng
nangyari sa kanilang yon, di na ito nagparamdam. Tinext niya si Kuya Frank niya pero wala naman daw
ito sa bahay nila. Baka raw busy lang.

“Bakit kasi ang gulo gulo mo Julie Anne Penaflorida San Jose?! Ngayon namimiss mo pagkatapos mo
patigilin sa ginagawa niya. Oh ano ka ngayon? Malungkot ka tuloy.” Sabi niya sa sarili niya.

She has decided na pumunta muna sa bahay ng parents niya, namimiss na rin niya ang mga ito. Wala rin
naman kasi siyang magawa sa unit niya. Busy rin naman sila Maqui and Sef.

Pagkasara niya ng pinto, nagulat siya sa nakita niya. It was Elmo. Awkward silence came.

“Kamusta ka na?” Elmo broke the silence.

“Okay lang. Malapit na yata ako manganak. Ikaw?”

“San ka pupunta? Okay lang ako, pero mas okay ngayon kasi nakausap kita kahit ganito lang.”

“Pupuntahan ko sila Mama. Wala kasi ako magawa dito.”

“Malapit ka na manganak, pero nagagawa mo pang umalis mag-isa. Julie naman eh. Tinaboy mo ko sa
buhay mo tapos ganyan ka. Gusto mo ba talaga ko pahirapan ng ganito?”

“Elmo, matagal pa naman yung due date ko, tsaka kaya ko pa naman eh. Sorry nga pala about don sa
nangyari nung isang araw, di ko sinasadya.”

“Okay lang. Kalimutan na natin yon. Sige na, mukhang ayaw mo naman magpasama sakin. Go ahead,
baka gabihin ka pa sa daan. Ingat ka ha. Pwede bang itext mo ko pag nandon ka na? Please?”

“Sige I will. Sige, una na ko. Salamat.” And she smiled. And Elmo just nodded. And he walked towards
his unit while Julie waited for the elevator. Bago pa man makapasok si Julie, she felt something…

“ELMOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MOSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!” She shouted.

Chapter 25.1

“ELMOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MOSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!” nagulat si Elmo when he heard Julie

shout. Agad siyang pumunta sa tabi nito at saka hinagod ang likod ng dalaga.

“Julie, what’s wrong?!” he asked worriedly.

“Elmo, dalin mo na ko sa hospital!! Ahhh!” she cried. Bigla namang nanlaki ang mata ni Elmo at hindi
agad nakagalaw mula sa kinatatayuan niya. “Elmo ano ba!!!” sigaw ni Julie.

“Ah… L-let’s go.” Sabi niya. They walked towards the elevator. He made sure na maaalalayan niyang
maigi si Julie. “Julie, manganganak ka na?” he asked.

“Obviously, Elmo. Bilisan mo na please. Masakit na talaga.” She pleaded.

“Ah… O-oo.” He hated the fact na napakabagal ng elevator kung kailan naman kailangan nila magmadali.
Natatakot siya na baka any moment, lumabas ang mga baby nila.

Agad naman niyang pinaandar ang sasakyan niya the moment they got in at mabilis na nagmaneho
papunta sa hospital. Mabuti na lang talaga at kahit paano mayroong hospital na malapit sa kanila.

Pagdating sa hospital ay agad na pinahiga si Julie sa stretcher and the nurses and doctors rushed her to
the delivery room. Sumama si Elmo sa loob because he wanted to be there for her.

“Julie, I need you to take a deep breath and then push the babies out. Okay?” The doctor instructed her.

“Ahhhhhh!!!” she cried.

“Okay, good. One more, one more. Nakikita ko na yung head ng baby.” The doctor said.

“Baby, kaya mo yan. Breathe in. Breathe out.” Elmo said habang hawak ang kamay ni Julie.

“1, 2, 3, push!”

“Ahhhhhhh!!!”

“Elmo masakiiiit!” she cried.

“Ayan! Malapit na!” the doctor said. “Isa pa Julie. Isang push na lang, lalabas na yung ulo ng baby.” And
Julie did what she was asked to do. The doctor pulled the baby out and narinig sa buong kwarto ang iyak
nito. “It’s a girl.” Sabi nito. Pagkatapos ay inabot na sa nurse para macut ang umbilical cord ng baby.
“Okay, Julie. One more para lumabas na ang baby boy mo.”
Muli nanamang nakarinig ng iyak sa loob ng delivery room. Elmo felt ecstatic when he saw his babies. Si
Julie, kahit pagod na pagod at hinang hina ay masaya pa rin dahil finally, nakikita na niya ang mga anak
niya. The nurse gave her Eloise habang kay Elmo naman inabot si Ethan.

“Congrats po.” She said.

“Thank you.” Elmo replied. He cooed at his son at saka pa hinalikan ang noo nito. “Welcome to the
world, little guy.” He said tapos tumingin siya kay Julie at kay Eloise.

“Elmo…” Julie started.

“Wag ka muna magsalita, Jules. You’re tired.” Sabi niya habang hinahaplos ang ulo nito. He kissed the
top of her head then kissed Eloise’s forehead. “Rest well mommy.” Sabi niya kay Julie.

*****

Paglabas ni Elmo sa delivery room ay agad niyang nakita sina Maqui, Frank, Sef, ang family niya and
Julie’s family. He called them bago pa man ipasok si Julie sa delivery room kaya naman nagmadali ang
mga ito na puntahan sila sa hospital.

“How is she?” Jonathan asked.

“Okay na po siya, Tito.” Nilagay naman ni Jonathan ang kamay nito sa balikat ng binata.

“Call me papa. Alam ko di kayo okay ng anak ko, but never kita sinabihan na tawagin akong tito.” Sabi
nito. Ramdam kasi ni Jonathan ang pag-aalinlangan ni Elmo sa pagtawag sa kanya ng papa lalo pa at
alam nitong wala na sila ng anak niya.

“O-okay naman na po siya, papa.”Nakangiting sabi nito.

“And the babies?” tanong nina Pia at Marivic. Bigla namang nagliwanag ng husto ang mukha niya at saka
pa may tumulong luha sa mata niya.

“They’re fine. Bouncing baby boy and girl.” He said proudly. Kinongrats naman siya ng pamilya nila at
saka pa siya niyakap ng mga ito.

“Can we see them na kuya?” Clara asked.

“Yeah, Clows.Nasa nursery na sila.” He replied. Sabay sabay silang nagpunta sa nursery at sakto naman
ay kakaopen lang nito for viewing.

They all looked for the twins and found them in the middle of the nursery. With tags saying: ‘Baby Girl
Magalona’ and ‘Baby Boy Magalona’

“Aww. Cuties!” masayang sabi ni Maxx.

“Ay! Winner ang blood compact niyo ni Julieta, Elmokong! Mana sa beauty ko ang mga junakis mo!” sabi
naman ni Sef.

“Hahaha. Sef, kapag ikaw kamukha ng mga yan, panget.” Pambabara ni Maqui.

“Ay. I hate you na friend. Akala ko pa naman super twins tayo. Hmp!” pagtataray nito.

“Ethan looks like Ate Julie.” Arkin said.

“Yeah. Tapos Eloise looks like Kuya Elmo.” Sabi naman ni Clara.

“They’re both beautiful.” Pia said. “Maganda ang lahi natin, Mav.”Sabi nito kay Marivic.

“Oo nga. Ang ganda at gwapo ng mga apo natin.” Marivic answered.

“If only Francis is still with us, for sure he’ll be happy like us also and siya ang magiging number one
mang-iispoil sa mga apo niya.” Pia said happily.

“Onga, Mom. For sure he’ll use them as his subject sa mga photoshoot niya.” Frank said.

Masaya nilang tinignan ang kambal nila Julie at Elmo. They even took a photo of the twins. After ng
viewing, niyaya naman sila ni Elmo na magstay muna sa kwarto ni Julie habang inaabangan ang dalaga sa
paglabas ng recovery room.

*****

After an hour, dinala na sa isang private room si Julie. She’s still sleeping kaya hindi na nag-ingay ang
pamilya niya, pamilya ni Elmo at si Sef and Maqui. Maya maya pa ay nagsabi na sila Pia na mauuna na
silang umuwi dahil may pasok pa sila Clara at Arkin.

“Kami rin, Moe. Mauuna na kami kasi may pasok rin sila Joanna at Jac bukas.” Marivic said.

“Ah sige po, Ma. Tawagan ko na lang po kayo pag nagising na siya. Ingat po kayo ni Papa.”

“Salamat, Moe.” At nagbeso na si Elmo kay Marivic.

“Mom, ingat din po kayo.And tatawagan ko rin kayo about her.” And he kissed his Mom on the cheek.

Sef, Maqui and Frank stayed with Elmo. Si Sef ay abala maglaro sa phone while Maqui and Frank were
busy talking. Si Elmo naman ay nakatingin lang sa natutulog pa rin na si Julie.

“You happy bro?” nagulat siya when he felt Frank’s arm on his shoulder.

“Yes. Very happy. Ecstatic even.” He replied. Napangiti naman si Frank sa sinabi ng kapatid. “Ganito pala
feeling ng daddy no?” he asked.
“Big boy ka na talaga. I’m happy for you bro. Super happy.” Frank said and gave his brother a sideways
hug.

“I cried a while ago, Frank.” Sabi ni Elmo.

“Alam ko. Ikaw ba naman, mawitness yung miracle na ganun. Sino bang hindi maiiyak diba?” he
answered.

“Yeah. Natatakot akong buhatin yung babies namin. Feeling ko, malalaglag.”

“Hahaha. That’s normal, Moe. You’re a first time dad eh.”

“Tsaka, they’re so small pala no? Ang liit ng hands and feet nila. Tapos their cheeks are chubby and ang
pula. Mana kay Julie.” Nakangiting sabi ni Elmo. “Tapos my heart stopped when I heard them cry.
Feeling ko nasaktan sila. But then I remembered na it’s a sign of life. Na buhay ang mga anak ko.” Frank
smiled and ruffled his brother’s hair.

“Congrats, bro.” was all he said.

“Frank, hon. Let’s buy food muna. Para may makain si Moe later when we go home.” Pagyaya ni Maqui.

“Taralets, bagets Frankiko. Tommy hilfiger na akiz. Baka majombag kita sa pagkagutom ko.” Mataray na
sabi ni Sef.

“Haha.Fine. Nagwawala na yung anaconda diyan sa tyan mo eh. We’ll go first, bro. Balik kami agad.”
Frank said to Elmo.

“Sige.”

*****

She woke up still feeling tired from giving birth. Pagmulat niya ay nilibot niya ang mata niya but there
was no one inside the room.

“Maq? Sef? Ma?” she said. Bigla namang nagbukas ang pinto ng kwarto niya and Elmo walked in.

“You’re awake na pala. Kanina ka pa ba gising?” he asked. Umiling naman siya bilang sagot. “Uhm.
Galing lang ako sa nursery and kinausap ko si doc.”

“Si mama?”

“Umuwi muna sila. They’ll be back tomorrow morning daw pagkahatid kanila JM and Jac.”

“Where’s Maqui and Sef?” she asked again. Napakamot naman ng ulo si Elmo.

“Bumili lang sila ng food. Nagugutom ka na ba?” he asked.

“No.” tipid na sagot nito.

“You thirsty?” iling lang ang sinagot niya dito. “Okay. Sabihan mo lang ako if you need something.” He
said then walked towards the couch.

“Bakit hindi ka pa umuuwi?” Julie asked habang nakatingin sa kawalan.

“Ha? A-ako magbabantay sayo dito.”

“I told Maqui na siya magbabantay sa akin.” Matigas na sabi nito.

“Jules…”

“You can go home now, Elmo. Kaya ko namang hintayin dumating sila Maqui dito.” Sagot ni Julie.

“Julie…”

“Elmo naman. Please lang!” nagulat si Elmo nang pagtaasan nanaman siya ng boses ni Julie. “Iwanan mo
na muna ako!”

“No! Julie pwede bang kahit ngayon lang hayaan mo muna ako?! Please naman oh! Lagi na lang ba
tayong ganito? Oo alam ko galit ka sa akin, pero wag mo naman akong itulak palayo. Stop pushing me
away because I’ll always spring back to you. Naririnig mo ba ko? Babalik at babalik ako sayo kasi mahal
na mahal kita!” sabi ni Elmo. Hindi na napigilan pa ni Elmo ang emotion niya. Mahal na mahal niya si
Julie pero ang hindi niya maintindihan ay kung bakit siya pinipilit itulak nito palayo. “Mahal na mahal kita
eh. I love you so much that it hurts seeing you like this. Yung puro galit na lang ang nasa mata mo
everytime you look at me? Julie, feeling ko I killed someone dahil sa mga tingin mo eh. Alam mo yun?
Nagsisi na ko Julie. I’m so sorry and I will keep saying sorry until finally makapagdecide ka to forgive me.”
Sabi nito sa dalaga. Umiyak na rin si Julie kaya nilapitan siya ni Elmo.

“Tahan na. Wag kang iiyak, bawal sayo mapagod. Sige. Sa labas na lang muna ako. If you need anything,
tawagin mo na lang ako. Ha?” he said as he wiped the tears from Julie’s eyes. “I’ll ask the nurse if they
can bring the twins here.” Dagdag pa nito at saka na tumalikod at naglakad palabas ng kwarto.

*****

Naabutan nila Maqui, Sef at Frank si Elmo na nakaupo sa waiting area sa hallway. Nagtataka sila why he
was there at mukhang lugmok ang itsura.

“At apen Elmokong?”Sef asked.

“Ha? W-wala.Tulog pa kasi si Julie. Kakagaling ko lang sa nursery.”

“Weh. Yung truelaloo?”Pamimilit nito.

“Anong nangyari, Moe?” Maqui asked.

“She wanted me to go.”

“What?! Alam mo yan mujer na yan, jojombagin ko na talaga yan eh. Pakachoosy and everything ha?!
Kaimbyerna!” iritang sabi ni Sef.

“Bakit daw?” tanong ni Maqui. Nagkibit-balikat na lang si Elmo.

“I’ll talk to her.” Maqui said at saka na ito akmang papasok.

“Uwi na muna ako. Kukuha ako ng gamit ni Julie.” Sabi ni Elmo.

“I’ll go with you.” Frank said. Tumango na lang si Elmo at naglakad na sila palayo.

“Alam mo, sasabunutan ko na yang si Julieta na yan. Kaloka!” inis na bulong ni Sef kay Maqui.

“Wag ka na nga magulo diyan. Kausapin na lang natin nang magtigil na kaartehan nito.” Sagot naman ni
Maqui at saka na binuksan ang pinto ng kwarto.

*****

“Akala ko kapag lumabas na babies namin, magiging okay na kami. I was wrong pala.” Elmo said. Nasa
sasakyan sila nun ni Frank at papunta sa condo nila to get Julie’s clothes and para na rin mamili ng mga
kailangan nito.

“Give her more time bro. I’m sure naman magiging okay din lahat eh.” Sagot naman ng kuya niya.Hindi
naman kumibo si Elmo.“Mahal ka nun. Wag mo isiping hindi ka na niya mahal kaya siya nagkakaganyan.
Okay? She loves you and she just wants you to learn from your mistakes.”

“Pero paano ko mapapatunayan that I’ve learned already and that I’m willing to be a better man?”

“Give her everything she deserves. Yung mga bagay na hindi niya mahahawakan, hindi niya makikita,
hindi niya maaamoy. Pero yung bagay na maririnig niya from your heart and yung mararamdaman niya.”

*****

“Julieta, mag-usap nga kayo ni Marie Frencheska.” Bungad ni Sef and crossed his arms over his chest.
“Go!”

“Julie…” sabi ni Maqui.

“Hm?”

“What did you do to Elmo?”

“Ha? W-wala.”
“Anong wala, Julie? Ano ganyan ka na ba ka-manhid at ka-rude? Julie, nakikita naming lahat yung effort
ni Elmo, pero para sayo parang wala lang yon. Julie, kitang kita ng lahat kung paano ka niya suyuin, kung
paano niya patunayan yung sarili niya sayo and he proved also na he deserved that second chance pero
wala eh, sobrang tigas mo. Nanganak ka na’t lahat lahat, hinayaan ka na niya’t lahat, kulang pa ba yon?
Sagutin mo ko, Jules.” As Maqui raised her voice.

Julie didn’t answer. Wala siyang ginawa kung hindi ang umiyak ng umiyak. Masakit marinig ang mga yon.
Di niya alam kung anong nangyari sa kanya at sa kanila ni Elmo.

“Friend, tama na. Ang puso. Bet mo bang akiz na lang ang kumausap sa friend natin? Masyado ka ng
highblood atembang. Sige na, lumabas ka muna don at makipagcuddle kay Papa Frenk.” Sef suggested.

“Sige girl. Ikaw na bahala dyan. Kakaloka kasi yang friend natin.” And Maqui went out the room.

“Friend, wag ka nga mag-crayola dyan. Ikaw naman kasi friend, grabe mo naman pahirapan si Elmokong,
mahal na mahal ka niya as in sobrang mahal ka niya. Marunong rin mapagod at masaktan yung tao. Pero
kahit ramdam na niya na lahat ng yon di ka niya sinukuan, oo hinayaan ka niya kasi yon yung gusto mo,
pero friend lagi siyang nandyan. Friend, swallow your pride. Walang mali don, masakit sa ego niya yan
pero friend obvious naman na wala siyang paki rito. All the time he is thinking about you, your babies
and your future. Girl, try to think things. Minsan lang ako magdrama ng ganito, wag mong sayangin ang
laway at byuti ko, kundi ako na ang pepektus sayo, bet? Jusmiyo Julieta, niloloka mo yung byuti ko.
Kajirits ha!” And Sef hugged her at lalo namang naiyak si Julie sa ginawa ng kaibigan niya. First time itong
gawin sa kanya ni Sef.

“Friend, tigilan mo na ang pagiging crying lady. Pahinga na. Magpapabreastfeed ka pa later. Sige na,
magbeauty rest ka na.”

Lumabas si Sef ng kwarto at kinuwento kay Maqui ang nangyaring paguusap nila. Di naman
makapaniwala si Maqui sa mga nasabi ni Sef kay Julie. Nagtawanan lang sila.

“Hay. I feel sorry for Julie, pero mas naaawa ako kay Elmo eh. Feeling ko kailangan lang talaga aminin ni
Elmo na wala naman talaga yung sa kanila nung girl na nakita natin sa grocery and sa bar yan lang yung
katapat niyang si Julieta eh.” Maqui explained.

“Well, sana maisip yan ni Moks no. Jusmiyo, more pa sa pagdadrama ang buhay ng dalawang yan.
Hayahay na hayahay friend. Hayaan na muna natin yung isa don tayiz ay magrest muna.”

The two went back to the room and rest.

*****

Kinabukasan ay maagang nagpunta sina Jonathan, Marivic at Pia sa hospital. Nagulat ang tatlo when
they found Elmo in the hospital lobby.

“Moe.”

“Hi po, Pa, Ma and Mom.”

“Bakit ka nandito? Di ba nandoon ka dapat sa loob at binabantayan si Julie? May nangyari na naman
ba?” Jonathan curiously asked.

“Ah w-wala po, Pa. Nagpahangin lang po ako.”

“Moe, alam ko naman na may problema kayong dalawa, at alam kong hanggang ngayon natitiis ka pa rin
ng anak ko. Pasensya ka na. Nung una kong nalaman yung nangyari, nainis ako sa iyo. Nainis ako kasi
pinagkatiwala ko sayo ang anak ko pero malalaman ko na lang na ganon yung gagawin mo sakanya. Pero
dahil mas inuna mo saming magpaliwanag, nalaman ko ang totoo. Gusto ko man sabihin kay Julie lahat
ng yon di ko ginawa dahil gusto ko maging lalaki ka para aminin ang totoong nangyari.” Jonathan
explained to him.

“Naiintindihan namin ang desisyon niyo pareho, nakita ko na nahihirapan ka, at si Julie sa nangyari. Pero
nakita ko rin kung gaano ka kapursigido na suyuin siya at ibalik ang lahat sa dati, isang beses nga
tinawagan pa niya ako para lang ikwento sa akin yung ginawa mo para sa kanya pero nung
magpapasalamat na sana siya sayo, nahuli ka naman niya na aalis nagbago ang isip niya at lalo siyang
nainis sayo, sinabi ko sa kanya na kung alam niya lang na tinatawagan mo kami just to check on her,
natuwa naman siya. Siguro magulo lang talaga ang utak niya dahil sa mga nangyayari.” Kwento naman ni
Marivic.

“Opo, Ma. Hinayaan ko po noon si Julie, kasi yon yung gusto niya gawin ko. Kasi nasasaktan rin po ako sa
pagtataboy niya sakin, pero kahit ganon mahal na mahal ko po siya. Masakit po sa akin na gawin yon,
pero dahil yon po yung makakapagpasaya sa kanya yun po yung ginawa ko.” And tears fell down from
Elmo’s eyes.

“Son, because of her you’ve became a man, a changed man. Dati akala ko magiging blacksheep ka na
lang talaga ng pamilya, pero since Julie came into your life nagbago ka. And I am so thankful to her. And
I can say na you’re so lucky to have her. Nagalit ako sayo when Frank told me what he had seen sa bar.
Pero nung dumating ka sa bahay na sobrang wasted, I felt that na mas kailangan mo kami rather magalit
ako sayo, I listened to your side and yes, I admit na mali ka. Pero nung sinabi mo sakin na you’ll prove to
her how sorry you are, I am so proud of you, Moe. Nung nakita ko how determined you are to get her
back, don ko napatunayan sa sarili ko na mahal mo talaga siya, na mahal mo talaga ang pamilya mo,
kaya hinayaan kita na gawin ang gusto mo, you were almost there pero siguro di pa right time para
magkaayos kayong dalawa, but I know you won’t give up cause you’re my son. Go, prove to her that you
still deserve her forgiveness and chance. Tell her all the things you wanted to say.” Pia cheered up his
son.

“Thank you, Mom. Thank you for cheering me up and giving me courage everytime na nawawalan ako
ng pag-asa sa relasyon namin. Thank you for loving her as much as you love me. But, I did that, I told her
all I’ve wanted to say kaya lang wala pinagtabuyan niya ko. Di ko na alam kung saan ko pa ilulugar yung
sarili ko eh. Pero dahil mahal ko siya, handa kong tanggapin lahat ng ginagawa niya sakin. Hindi ako
mapapagod na iparamdam sakanya how much I love her and our babies. Aantayin ko yung araw na
tatanggapin niya ko ulit kahit para lang sa mga anak namin.”

Elmo hugged his Mom and cried.

*****
Dahan-dahan niyang binuksan ang pinto sa kwarto ni Julie. He found her sitting on the bed and was busy
with her book. Lumingon naman ito when she felt his presence at saka binaba ang librong hawak.

“Andiyan ka pala.” Julie said. Tumango lang naman si Elmo at saka bahagyang ngumiti.

“Akala ko kasi tulog ka pa eh. Sige, alis na lang ako ulit.” He said and turned on his heels.

“Moe…” Julie called him.

“Hm?” sabi niya at saka pa lumingon uli kay Julie.

“Uhm. Can we talk?” she said. Tumango naman si Elmo and sat on the chair near Julie’s hospital bed.
“Uhm. Ano kasi, about yesterday and uhm… the last time na nasungitan kita.”

“Okay lang Julie. I understand.” He replied.

“No. Let me explain first. What I did was wrong Elmo. Sobrang mali ng ginawa ko. Hindi ko naappreciate
lahat ng ginawa mo. I never listened to you. I became rude. Nagmatigas ako. Umiwas ako. Pinilit kong
tiisin ka kahit na gustung-gusto na kitang yakapin. Kahit na gusto ko na sabihin sayo na ‘Elmo, bati na
tayo. Mahal pa rin kita. Mahal na mahal kita.’ Lahat yun Moe, pinagsisisihan ko na. Elmo this time
makikinig na ko sayo. This time, bababaan ko na ang pride ko. Kasi mahal kita eh. Basta sabihin mo lang
lahat sa akin. Handa naman akong tanggapin ka ulit eh. Kasi ikaw lang yung nandito ko oh. Ikaw lang.”
umiiyak na sabi ni Julie habang tinuturo ang puso niya. Elmo held her hand and kissed the back of it.

“Shh. Wag kang iiyak. Nasasaktan ako everytime I see you cry. Alam mo ba yun? Julie, kung ano man
yung nangyari this past few days, let’s just forget about it. Let’s start something new. Magsimula tayo
ulit.”

“Moe, ang laki ng kasalanan ko sayo. Do I still deserve this with you? Sa sakit na nabigay ko sayo…”

“Oo naman. Julie, kahit gaano pa kalaki yung problema natin, tanggap pa rin dapat natin ang isa’t isa.
Mahal kita. Mahal mo ko. May mga anak na tayo. This is a new chapter in our life. Don’t you think we
need a second chance?”

“I’m so sorry Elmo. Masyado lang talaga akong nagmatigas nun.”

“Tahan na sabi eh. Okay na. Okay na tayo. Ha? Okay na tayo.” Elmo said as he stood up to hug her. Agad
naman siyang niyakap ni Julie na parang bata at saka umiyak na nang umiyak. He wiped his own tears at
saka pa hinalikan ang ulo ni Julie. “Mahal na mahal kita, Julie. Let’s give this another shot.”

“Yes, Moe. We will. For the babies. For us. Mahal na mahal na mahal din kita.”

CHAPTER 25.2
They went out of the hospital the next day. Masaya ang lahat dahil finally, mabibisita na ang kambal na
pwedeng sabay sabay silang lahat magpunta.

“Wait! Wait! Ano itey, Juan for All, All for Juan ang peg?!!” pigil ni Sef. Nag-uunahan kasi ang mga ito na
sumunod kay Julie at Elmo na naglalakad papunta sa unit nila. “Chillax, people. Makakapasok po tayong
lahat okay?” sabi niya pa. Binuksan na nga ni Sef ang pinto sa unit nila Julie at saka na pinapasok ang
family ni Elmo, family ni Julie at silang magkakaibigan.

They placed the twins sa crib ng mga ito and as if on cue, everyone gathered around them.

“Aww. Cutie patooties talaga nila!” Maxx said.

“Chubby cheeks!” Arkin said habang hinahawakan ang kamay ni Ethan.

“Ang cuuuute!” sabi naman ni JM.

“Tama na muna yan baka mapupog naman babies namin.” Sabi naman ni Julie.

“Hahaha. Oo nga naman. And let Julie rest first guys.” Sabi naman ni Pia. After saying their congrats to
the couple at matapos din halikan sa paa ang kambal ay nagsialis na sila. Leaving Julie and Elmo and the
babies.

*****

“Nagugutom ka ba? Gusto mo ba magrest muna? What do you want baby?” Elmo asked. Natatawa
naman si Julie sa kanya. “What?”

“Ang cute mo lang. Haha. Pwede bang umupo ka dito sa tabi ko. Alam ko pagod ka din eh.” Sabi niya and
she patted the space beside her. Napangiti naman si Elmo and sat next to her habang nasa harap naman
nilang dalawa ang crib ng kambal. Pasimple namang umakbay si Elmo kay Julie and the latter rested her
head on his chest.

“Namiss ko yung ganito.” Elmo said habang nilalaro ang buhok ni Julie.

“Ang alin?” Julie asked and looked at Elmo. “Yung ganito?” saka niya biglang hinalikan si Elmo sa chin. “O
ganito?” and she kissed him on his jawline. “Or ito?” then she gave him a quick kiss on the lips na siya
namang kinatuwa ni Elmo.

“Hahahaha. Yeah. Nakakamiss mga ganyan mo.” Sagot nito at saka pa siya niyakap ng mahigpit. “I miss
this. Yung lazy days natin tapos kwentuhan lang about stuff.”

“Oo, nakakamiss nga. Pati yung movie marathons natin.”

“Yeah. Kaya lang ngayon, we’re parents na eh. Wait lang baby. Anong gusto mong itawag satin ng
twins?” napaisip naman bigla si Julie. Oo nga. Ano bang itatawag sa kanila once the kids started to talk.

“How about, mom and dad?”

“Hm. Too common.”

“Mom and pops?”

“Naah…”

“How about…” napaisip pa ng malalim si Julie. “Baby, what if nanay and tatay na lang? It’s cute diba?”
bigla namang nagliwanag ang mukha ni Elmo. Nanay at Tatay? Why not? It’s unique. Wala na
masyadong gumagamit nun.

“Nanay and Tatay sounds great.”

*****

Mahimbing nang natutulog si Julie samantalang si Elmo naman ay abala sa laptop niya. Maya maya ay
umiyak ang isa sa kambal. He stood up from his study table and went to their crib.

“Shhh. Here’s your milk na, Eloise.” Bulong niya habang karga ito.

“Moe? Ako na.” nagulat siya nang nasa tabi na niya si Julie.

“No, it’s okay. Ako na.”

“Are you sure? May ginagawa ka pa ata eh.”

“Yes, baby. Okay lang. Di naman importante yung ginagawa ko. Sige na. Go back to sleep.” He replied
and even kissed Julie’s forehead.

“Okay. After mo patulugin si Eloise, matulog ka na din ha. Lagi ka na lang puyat. Baka panget ka na niyan
sa graduation mo.” Pang-aasar pa nito.

“Haha. Yes po. I’ll be there in a while.”

Nang alam na ni Elmo na mahimbing na ang tulog ni Eloise ay binaba na niya ito ulit sa crib. He kissed
the forehead of his kids bago siya nagpunta sa kama nila ni Julie. Nakita niyang gising pa ito.

“Sabi sayo, matulog ka na eh.” He said pagkahiga niya.

“I waited for you.”

“Aysus. You missed me already? Nandun lang naman ako oh.” He said.

“Ay? Mahangin pala. Nevermind.” Sagot ni Julie. Agad naman siyang niyakap ni Elmo at hinalikan pa ang
balikat niya.

“Hahaha. I was just kidding baby. Ikaw naman pikon ka nanaman.”

“Ha. Ha. Ha. Matulog na tayo.”

“Kiss muna.”

“Magtigil ka. Inaantok na ko.”

“Eh? Come on, baby. Goodnight kiss muna.” Humarap naman si Julie sa kanya pero nakataas ang isang
kilay nito. “Kiss na kasi.” Elmo said sabay pout.

“Inaantok na ko, Moe. Tulog na tayo please?”

“Kiss na nga kasi para makatulog na tayo.” Pangungulit pa rin ni Elmo habang hinihigpitan ang yakap kay
Julie.

“Isa lang ha?” tumango naman si Elmo at saka nagpout na ulit. Julie gave him a quick kiss on the lips at
saka na ito ngumiti. “Okay na ha? Let’s sleep.” At saka na niya niyakap si Elmo and they both went to
sleep with smiles on their faces.

*****

It’s a Sunday, naunang nagising si Julie and as she opened her eyes, she loved the view. Ikaw ba naman
na pagdilat ng mata mo, isang Elmo Moses Magalona na nakatopless at napakagwapong natutulog ang
katabi mo eh. Yes, she just loves to watch Elmo sleeping. Lalong nagiging gwapo ito sa paningin niya.

“Namiss ko panoorin ka habang natutulog. I miss staring at your face baby. And mas namiss ko halikan
ka, yakapin ka at landiin ka.” Julie whispered.

“Namiss mo pala eh, bakit hindi mo gawin? Tulog pa naman yung mga anak natin eh.” Nagulat si Julie
nang bigla itong nagsalita dahil di niya akalain na gising pala ito.

“What? Gising ka pala. Kainis ka.” Sabay hampas sa dibdib nito at bago pa man niya tanggalin ang kamay
niya hinila na siya ni Elmo paibabaw sa kanya.

“Namiss mo ko ikiss di ba?” Sabay kiss sa ilong ni Julie.

“Namiss mo ko yakapin di ba?” At lalo naman niyang hinigpitan ang yakap rito.

“Namiss mo ko landiin di ba?” At sinimulan na ni Elmo hagurin ang likod ni Julie.

“Sige na baby, you can do all of that. Please?” And Elmo flashed a naughty smile.

“Hoy, ikaw Elmo Moses Magalona ha. Mamaya magigising na yung mga anak natin may nalalaman ka
pang ganyan dyan.” And Julie seated on Elmo’s tummy.

“Ayan na nga eh ginagawa mo na oh.” And Elmo rested his body sa headboard ng kama nila and pouted
his lips.
Julie can’t resist this guy. Kaya naman hinalikan na niya ito. Wala silang paki sa morning breathe nilang
dalawa, mas lalo nilang naenjoy na halikan ang isa’t isa. It’s been a while since they have kissed each
other. Para bang sabik na sabik sila sa isa’t isa. Elmo started to nibble Julie’s ears, and Julie let out soft
moans. He started to play her bosoms and Julie keeps on kissing Elmo’s face and neck. Elmo is about to
undress Julie kaya lang bigla namang umiyak si Ethan.

“Baby, wait wait wait. Si Ethan gising na yata.”

“Julie, isang round lang baby please? Mabibitin ako nito eh.” Papupumilit naman ni Elmo.

“Eh baby baka pati si Eloise magising sa iyak ni Ethan eh, mahihirapan pa ko patahanin pareho. Babalikan
kita pag napatahan ko na siya, promise.”

“Sige na, puntahan mo na. Maliligo na lang ako.”

“Moe naman eh.”

“Okay lang Jules, sige na puntahan mo na si Ethan baka nagugutom na.”

Julie kissed him again. “Mamaya promise, babawi ako sayo kaya be ready ha?” Sabay kindat and umalis
na ito sa pagkakaupo kay Elmo and may pahabol itong “Don’t worry, nabitin din ako kaya dapat mamaya
di ako mabibitin ha?” She whispered in her sexy voice.

“Urghhhh. Julieeeeee!!!”

*****

“Moe, matagal ka pa ba? Malalate na tayo sa appointment natin sa doctor ng mga anak natin?” Habang
karga karga si Eloise.

“Malapit na, Julie. Kukunin ko na lang si Ethan tapos aalis na tayo.”

“Hay nako, Eloise pakabagal kumilos talaga nung tatay mo.” She talked to Eloise as if she understands
her.

“Alam mo, Ethan yung nanay mo grabe sakin. Ang dami dami ng inuutos sakin oh. Kawawa naman po
ang tatay.” Habang palabas sila ng kwarto kinakausap naman ni Elmo ang anak nilang lalaki.

“Haha. Halika na tatay, alis na po tayo.”

Pagdating nila sa kotse, sa backseat na umupo si Julie para makarga niya ang kambal. At nagdrive na si
Elmo papuntang clinic.

*****

“Goodafternoon Mr. and Mrs. Magalona. You may sit down.”

“Goodafternoon, doc.”

“Kamusta naman ang pagiging first time parents? Nahirapan ba kayo?”

“Medyo po doc, pero nakakapagaadjust naman po kami ni Julie sa kambal namin.”

“So, tara I’ll check your babies na muna.” And the doctor started to check their babies.

“So Julie, malakas ba sila magbreastfeed sayo?”

“Yes doc. Every 4 hours ko sila pinapabreastfeed.”

“How about their stools? Nakakailang diapers sila in a day?”

“Hmm, Elmo nakakailang diapers sila sa isang araw? Ikaw kasi usually na nagpapalit dba?”

“Uhm, doc usually they poop twice a day, color yellowish po siya and thrice to four times ko po sila
pinapalitan ng diaper.”

“Wow, good to know na very hands-on ka pa sa mga anak mo. Nakakatuwa naman yon.”

“Ganon po talaga, ayaw po kasi namin na kumuha ng yaya kaya very hands-on po kami ni Julie sa kambal
namin.”

“That’s it the babies are very normal. And they are very healthy. You can go back next month.”

“Thanks, doc.”

And they left the clinic.

*****

The Magalonas planned for a Sunday lunch along with the San Joses and also Maqui and Sef ay invited
rin sa bahay nila sa Antipolo. Inaantay na lang nila sila Julie at Elmo at ang kambal nito.

“We’re hereeeee everyone!” Elmo shouted.

“Yay! Hi Ate Julie!” Clara embraced her. “Hi baby Ethan and Eloise. Tita misses you!”

“Pasok muna kayo, Moe. Nasa may garden sila. And put your things sa kwarto mo. Nalinis ko na yon.”
Pia asked as she walked towards to Elmo and Julie and gave them both a kiss and a hug. “How was my
apos? Say hello to Momma Pia.” At kinuha niya si Eloise kay Julie habang binigay naman ni Elmo si Ethan
kay Julie.

“Baby, akyat ko muna yung gamit natin sa kwarto ha. Sunod na lang ako sainyo sa garden.”

“Alright, baby.” Julie answered at sabay na sila ni Pia na pumunta sa garden.

“Hi everyone! Look who I’m carrying.” As Pia got the attention of everyone.

“Hi Eloise! We miss you baby!” Maqui said. Inabot naman ni Pia si Eloise kay Maqui.

Kinuha naman ng kanyang Papa Jonathan si Ethan sa kanya para makapagbeso ito sa mga kaibigan at sa
pamilya niya.

“Hi Jules! I missed you! Kamusta buhay mommy?” Bati ni Maqui kay Julie sabay beso dito.

“Hi Maq, namiss din kita. Masaya sobra pero syempre minsan nakakapagod din. Pero pag nakikita ko sila
nawawala naman agad lahat ng pagod ko.” Nakangiting sabi ni Julie sa kaibigan.

“Naku. Kaya ikaw Eloise ha pati na rin si Ethan, wag niyo masyadong pahirapan mommy at daddy nyo.”

“Kung makapagbilin ka naman akala mo maiintindihan ka niya.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Ano ka ba girl! Malay mo naman di ba? Joke lang. Teka, ayaw niyo ba kasi kumuha na lang ng yaya para
naman may mag-aalaga sakanila?”

“Napagusapan na namin yan ni Elmo, we decided na wag muna. Maliit pa sila kaya mas gusto namin na
hands on muna kami sa pagaalaga sa kanila, bonding na din namin ‘to sa mga anak namin. Tsaka wala pa
naman akong ginagawa eh. Sa bahay lang naman ako so hanggat pwede pa kami nalang muna.”

“Eh si Elmo ba tinutulungan ka?”

“Oo naman Maqui, sobrang hands on daddy nun eh. Siya nga palagi nagpapalit ng diapers nung kambal.
And he actually loves doing that. Feel na feel talaga niya maging tatay.”

Habang nagkukwentuhan naman si Maqui at Julie ay di nila namalayan na nakabalik na si Elmo.

“Hi Maqui, Hi baby. Anong pinaguusapan niyo?” Sabi ni Elmo sabay halik sa pisngi ni Julie.

“Sabi lang naman ni Julie eh tamad ka daw. Lagi nalang daw siya yung nagaalaga sa kambal.”

“What? That’s not true!” Nakapout na sabi ni Elmo.

“Hahaha. Pout ka pa dyan Magalona. I’m just joking. Sobrang hands on dad mo nga daw eh. Very good.”

“Naman ako pa ba? Anything for my babies.” Nakangiting sabi ni Elmo habang hawak ang kamay ni
Eloise. Lumapit naman sa kanila si Pia.

“Hey let’s eat. Ako na muna hahawak kay Eloise ha.” Inabot naman ni Maqui si Eloise kay Pia at sabay
sabay naman na pumunta sila Julie sa kinauupuan ni Sef. Napangiti nalang sila ng makitang tuwang tuwa
siyang nilalaro si Ethan.

“Hoy! Baka mahawaan ng kabaklaan mo yang si Ethan ha.” Tumatawang sabi ni Maqui kay Sef.
“Ano ka ba friend? Wit yan mahahawa ng kabaklaan ko. Kumalma ever ka lang diyan okay!”

“Pag naging bakla yang anak ko masusuntok talaga kita Josefa!” Sabi ni Julie.

“Ay nanganak lang warfreak na?! Di kita pinalaki para maging ganyan Julieta ha!”

“Kelan pa ko nagkaroon ng nanay na bakla?”

“Wit akiz bagay maging mudra mo Julieta! Sisterette please. Sisterette!” Pang-aasar naman ni Sef.

“Please lang Josefa, maganda ako kaya di ka bagay maging kapatid ko.” At lalo rin namang
nakipagasaran si Julie sa kaibigan.

“Oh em gee! Nanganak ka lang Julieta naging ganyan ka na. EJ’s bumalik nga kayo sa tiyan ng mudra nyo,
baka sakaling bumait ulit sakin. You’re so mean Julieta! Huhubels.” Pagdadrama ni Sef.

“Josefa tama na pagdadrama mo, tara na kumain na tayo.” Aya ni Maqui.

“Oo nga Sef tama na yan. Akin na si Ethan para makakain ka na.” Sabi ni Marivic at nilagay na sa stroller
si Ethan katabi ng stroller ni Eloise.

“Come on guys, let’s eat.” Sabi ni Pia. Nagsimula na nga silang kumain. Habang kumakain sila ay di
naman nawala ang kwentuhan at asaran.

“Maalala ko nga pala, kelan niyo ba balak pabinyagan yung kambal?” Tanong ni Pia kay Julie at Elmo.

“Hmm, di pa po naming napaguusapan ni Julie yan, Mom eh. Though may naipon naman ako, siguro
after grad ko na lang po siguro? Then I’ll find a job agad para mapabinyagan na po namin sila.” Elmo
suggested.

“Hindi mas okay kung bago mag-6 months mabinyagan na sila?” Tanong naman ni Marivic.

“Onga, Moe. Nandito naman kami to help you financially eh.” Pia offered.

“Mom, I think that’s too much naman na po. Nakakahiya po kasi eh.”

“Moe, okay lang naman eh, tutulong rin kami ni Mama Ivic mo para sa gastos niyo, gusto rin sana
naming na mabinyagan yung mga apo naman ng mas maaga para pwede namin sila mahiram.” Jonathan
suggested.

“Sige po, pagusapan po natin yan ulit, paguusapan po muna namin ni Julie yung magiging decision
namin. Tapos we’ll let you know na lang po. Sa ngayon, let’s just enjoy our lunch na lang po.” Elmo
answered.

And they all continued their lunch. After nito, inakyat na ni Elmo at Julie ang kambal sa kwarto dahil
tulog na ang mga ito.
“Baby, ano kaya sa tingin mo? Yung offer nila Papa?” Tanong ni Julie.

“Okay lang naman kaya lang medyo nakakahiya kasi di ba sila na sumagot nung sa panganganak mo
tapos yung mga baby stuff ng mga anak natin. Pero ikaw kung anong gusto mo.” Sabay hug sa babaeng
mahal nito.

“Hmm, sige pag-isipan muna nating mabuti. Tara baba na tayo don. Gusto kong makibonding kila Ate
Maxx.”

“Sige baby, pero mamaya ha? Yung promise mo sakin kanina umaga. Di ko yon nakakalimutan.” And he
started to kiss Julie’s nape.

“Ehhhh Elmo, stop that. Magigising yung kambal.” Julie trying to resist Elmo’s hot kisses.

“Basta mamaya ha, okay?” At hinarap niya si Julie sa kanya and kissed her passionately. Julie kissed him
back and then break their kiss.

“Tara na baby. Baba na tayo.”

*****

Buong araw silang nagbonding sa bahay ng mga Magalona. Nag-videoke, they even played board games,
Pia baked some cupcakes at kung ano ano pa ang ginawa nila buong araw.

Jonathan, Marivic, Joanna and Jac bid goodbye to the Magalonas and to Julie and Elmo and to Ethan and
Eloise.

Hinatid naman ni Julie ang mga ito sa sasakyan.

“Dito ba kayo matutulog nila Elmo, Anak?” Tanong ni Marivic.

“Opo Ma. Tapos next week sa bahay naman natin sa Novaliches kami matutulog.” Julie answered.

“Pero anak wag niyo masyadong i-gala ang kambal hanggat di pa sila nabibinyagan ha? And about don sa
gagastusin para sa binyag nila, tutulong kami nila Pia for that, don’t have to worry ha? Para sa mga apo
namin. Basta sabihan niyo lang kami sa magiging decision niyo.” Paalala ni Marivic sa anak.

“Opo, Ma. Thank you po ulit. Thank you for everything. I love you Ma.” And she kissed her Mom.

“Pa, ingat po sa pagdrive. JM and Jac be good sa school ha. And laging mag-aaral mabuti.” And she
kissed her sisters and Papa.

*****

“Mom, can we just sleep here tonight? Gabi na rin po eh. And medyo pagod na po ako.” Elmo asked.

“Of course Elmo, open kayong apat dito sa bahay natin. Pero can I ask you a favor?”
“Sure Mom, ano po iyon?”

“Gusto ko makatabi sa pagtulog yung mga apo ko. Okay lang ba yon kay Julie?”

“Oo naman, Mom. Papayag naman po siya. Papalitan lang po ni Julie ng damit pantulog yung dalawa
then ihahatid na lang po namin sila sa kwarto niyo.”

“Sige, anak.”

Elmo went up to his room.

“Baby, pinapasabi ni Mom kung pwede daw ba niyang makatabi yung dalawa sa pagtulog? Sabi ko okay
lang eh. Minsan lang naman tayo nandito eh.”

“Pero paano pag naghanap ng gatas yung dalawa baby?”

“Eh di ba napabreastfeed mo na sila? Pag ganon naman di ba umaga na ulit sila maghahanap ng milk?
Edi gising na lang tayo ng maaga para makuha yung dalawa kay Mom.”

“Sige.Tapusin ko lang ‘to then hatid na natin sila kay Mommy Pia after.”

“Sige, magshower lang ako, antayin mo ko ha.”

After magshower ni Elmo, hinatid na nila ang kambal kay Pia.

“Mommy Pia, eto na po sila Ethan and Eloise. Di naman po sila nagigising masyado pag madaling araw
eh. Kunin na lang po naming sila bago sila magising para po di kayo magising kasi maghahanap po sila ng
milk eh.” Habang nilalapag ni Julie si Ethan sa tabi ni Pia at si Elmo naman ay nilapag sa kabilang side ni
Pia si Eloise.

“No worries, baby girl. Sige na magpahinga na kayo ni Elmo. Goodnight to you both.” And Pia gave Elmo
and Julie kiss on the cheeks.

*****

Nakahiga na si Elmo ng saktong lumabas si Julie sa cr.

“Hmm, ang bango mo naman mommy.” Habang pinapanood ni Elmo si Julie na nakaupo sa dulo ng kama
nito. Nilapitan niya ito and he smelled her hair.

“Hay nako, Elmo.” humarap naman ito kay Elmo and cupped his face on her hand.

Nasa ganong posisyon sila ng bigla siyang tanungin ni Elmo, “Don’t you remember something here?”
And he smiled naughtily.

“Huh? Ano yon?” Maang-maangan na tanong ni Julie.

“Di mo talaga matandaan? Gusto mo bang ipaalala ko sayo?” And Elmo started to kiss Julie’s forehead
down to her nose, “Wag mo na ko bibitinin ha?” And kissed her lips. He owned it as if there’s no more
tomorrow. Julie didn’t hesitate, she kissed him back passionately. Elmo started to kiss Julie’s neck
pababa sa shoulder niya, he slowly took off her top, Julie is just enjoying what Elmo is doing to her. Elmo
laid her down sa kama niya and whispered, “Dito natin nabuo si Eloise and Ethan. And I will never ever
forget that night baby.” And he kissed her again and they did it after a long time.

“Baby, thank you di mo ako binitin. Hehe.” And Elmo smirked.

“Haha. Loko ka talaga baby.”

“Seriously, sayo at sayo ko lang gagawin yung mga ganitong bagay. You’re the only girl that I will like,
love, want and need. Let’s sleep baby. And thank you again.” And he kissed again her lips.

“I love you, Elmo. Akin ka lang, and sayo lang din ako. Forever it will be.” Julie pressed her lips to him
and hugged him tightly.

CHAPTER 26

“Today we look forward. Look forward to getting out of here…” everyone laughs. “But today, I would
also like to look back…look back on our 5 years here at Ridgeview University… looking back not with
anger but with no regrets. No regrets for what we wanted to do but did not, what we wanted to say, but
could not. And so I say here today, the one thing I wish I had said, the one thing I know I will regret if I
never say: Thank you, Julie… for coming into my life, for staying, for not being the perfect girlfriend, but
the right one, for changing me to be a better man, a better person…”

“Nanay, crying again.” Sabi ni Ethan. Nagulat si Julie when she felt her twins wiping the tears falling from
her eyes.

“Why?” tanong naman ni Eloise.

“Nothing honey. Nanay’s just watching tatay’s graduation video.” Lumingon naman ang dalawang bata
sa tv at saka nagbalik ng tingin kay Julie.

“Away ikaw tatay?” Ethan asked. Napangiti naman si Julie and kissed both their cheeks.

“No po, Ethan. Di ako inaway ni tatay.”

“Otey!” at saka na naglaro ulit ang kambal. Julie turned the tv off and went to the kitchen para kumuha
ng snacks ng mga anak niya. Hinihintay nilang dumating si Elmo from the site dahil plano nilang
magpunta sa mall para ipasyal ang mga bata at para na rin bumili ng gamit nila sa school.

It’s been 3 years since the day the twins were born. Hindi makapaniwala si Julie na ang dating nasa loob
pa lang ng tiyan niya ay mga naglalakad at naglalaro na ngayon. Aminado naman siya na nung una,
nahirapan siyang magbalance ng time since she went back to school and just graduated last year. Tapos
nagtake pa siya ng bar exam. All that while being a hands-on mom. Si Elmo naman kahit busy sa trabaho
since he is a well-known architect ay nagagawa pa rin kahit paano na makabond sila.

Habang pinapanuod niya ang kambal na naglalaro ay nakarinig siya ng busina. Agad namang
nagtakbuhan ang dalawa papunta sa front door nila.

“Tatay is here!!” sigaw nila Ethan at Eloise.

“Nanay! Tatay’s here na. Let’s go!” sabi pa ni Eloise sa kanya habang hinahatak na siya nito.

“Okay, honey. Wait lang. Nanay will get your things.” natatawang sabi niya. “Yaya, mauna na po kayo sa
kotse. Kukunin ko lang yung bag ko.” Sabi niya sa yaya ng kambal.

“Sige po, ma’am.” At lumabas na nga ang mga ito.

“Tatay!!!” sigaw ng kambal at saka pa patakbong nagpunta kay Elmo. Agad naman silang sinalubong ni
Elmo ng yakap and carried both of them.

“Kiss tatay na.” pinupog naman ng kambal ng halik ang mukha ni Elmo.

“Hahaha. Where’s nanay?” tanong nito.

“Inside pa. Kuha ng things niya.” Ethan answered.

“Oh. Okay. You wait inside the car ha? I’ll go inside first.” At pinapasok na nga niya sa kotse ang kambal
pati na rin ang yaya nito.

Julie was still in their kids’ room dahil inaayos niya pa ang mga nagkalat na libro at laruan nang
maramdaman niyang may yumakap sa kanya. She smiled dahil alam na niya agad kung sino yun.

“Bakit pumasok ka pa? Iniwan mo yung kambal sa labas?” she asked. Hinigpitan lang naman ni Elmo ang
yakap sa kanya and even kissed her cheek.

“Wala lang. Sosolohin muna kita kahit 5 minutes lang. Tsaka kasama naman nila si yaya sa kotse eh.” He
answered and kissed her cheek again. Hinarap niya si Julie sa kanya and the latter wrapped her arms
around his neck. “I missed you.” Sabi niya at saka pa pinagdikit ang mga noo nila.

“I missed you too.” Julie replied and gave him a kiss on the nose.

“Ang boring kanina sa site. Feeling ko tuloy ang baho ko na.”

“Hm. Hindi naman ah. You smell good naman. Parang bagong ligo pa nga eh.” Sagot naman ni Julie while
smelling him. “Bango bango ng baby ko ah.”
“Sus. Mas mabango ka baby.”

“Hmp. Ayan nanaman. Taglandi ka nanaman. Halika na at alam mo namang mana sayo yung kambal na
mainipin.” Sabi ni Julie sabay hampas sa braso ni Elmo.

*****

“Nanay! I want this!” sabi ni Ethan sabay turo sa bag na The Flash ang design.

“Tatay, this one oh! I want! I want!” sabi naman ni Eloise sabay kuha pa ng backpack na Hello Kitty.

“Okay, okay. We’ll get them ha? Let’s just buy your school supplies first bago yung bag.” Sagot ni Elmo.

“Otey.” Sagot naman ng kambal.

“Nanay, why do we have to go to school?” tanong ni Ethan habang pinipiliian sila ni Julie ng school
shoes.

“So that you will learn new things. Tapos you’ll meet new friends. Ayaw mo ba nun, honey?”

“Kasama ka namin sa school?” he asked again.

“No honey. Nanay won’t be there. Pero ihahatid ko kayo syempre.”

“Eh what about you tatay?” si Eloise ang nagtanong.

“No din, sweetie. Bawal ang nanay at tatay sumama sa room niyo. We will bring you there naman eh.
Then susunduin din namin kayo. Okay ba yun?”

“Oteeeey. What are we going to do there ba?” tanong ni Eloise.

“You’ll draw pictures, read books, learn how to write, play with kids and many more.” Sagot ni Julie at
saka sinuotan si Eloise ng black shoes niya.

“You like this?” she asked. Tumango naman si Eloise at saka siya nginitian na abot tenga.

“Can we bring toys sa school?” Ethan asked.

“No, big guy. Toys are not allowed in school. Not unless sasabihin ni teacher na magdala kayo.” Elmo
answered. Nagpout naman si Ethan. He loves toys gaya ng daddy niya na huge collector of action
figures. Kaya ganun na lang ang lungkot niya when he learned na di makakapagdala ng laruan sa school.
“Ethan, that’s okay. Kasi sa school makakapaglaro ka pa din. You’ll meet new kids that have the same
interests with you.”

“Talaga, tatay? Can we pretend like superheroes?” naeexcite na tanong ni Ethan.

“Oo naman!”

“Yes!” natawa naman sina Elmo at Julie.

After nila mamili ng mga gamit ay kumain sila sa isang restaurant at pagkatapos ay umuwi na.

*****

“Musta naman mga inaanak ko?” Maqui asked. Binisita kasi siya ni Julie sa shop niya after nito ihatid ang
kambal.

“Okay naman. Ayun, nasa school sila ngayon.”

“Di na ba umiiyak? Naalala ko nung first day nila, sabi ni Elmo kay Frank grabe daw iyak nung kambal.”
Nakangiting sabi nito.

“Haha. Hindi na, Maq. Sanay na sila eh. May friends na din sila so nag-eenjoy na sila sa school.”

“Good to hear that. Anyway, I asked Sef to come over din. Wala namang ginagawa yung baklitang yun
eh. Wait lang ha.” Sabi ni Maqui at saka pumunta sa counter to get cupcakes and nagpatimpla pa ng
coffee sa isang barista.“So, nasan naman ngayon ang baby love mo?”

“Ayun, he has a project in Batangas. Nagpagawa si Mr. Chua ng resthouse and he’s checking the site
kung may problema ba. Tumawag kasi yung foreman sa kanya eh. Ayaw pa nga sana umalis dahil
nagpromise sa kambal na maglalaro sila later. Eh kaya lang emergency yun eh. So pinapunta ko na.”
kwento ni Julie.

“Ah napaka-workaholic na ni Elmo ha. Pero maiba ako, Jules. Hmm, wala pa ba kayong balak?” Naputol
ang sasabihin ni Maqui ng biglang sumingit si Julie.

“Hoy, Maqui tama na yung kambal ha. Ang hirap manganak, grabe ka!” Biglang singit naman ni Julie kay
Maqui.

“Ay shunga ka friend, kung pinapatapos mo ko. OA ka over there?” Natatawang sabi ni Maqui.

“Ay ganon ba friend? Haha. Balak na what ba yan?” Natatawang sagot naman ni Julie.

“Balak magpakasal kasi. Ikaw talaga.” Seryosong tanong ni Maqui.

“Anong kasal kasal ang naririnig ko over there ha? Aba ako dapat ang maid of honor girl ha? Baka
nakakalimutan mo kung di dahil sa byuti ko di ka matatauhan sa kagagahan mo sa hospital, remember?”
At biglang dumating naman si Sef sabay kuha ng cupcakes sa table at sabay subo nito.

“Gutom ka bang bayot ka? Kung makakain ka naman ng cupcake, grabe eh. Wala ng bukas ha
atembang?” Natatawang sabi ni Maqui.
“Baka naman pwede niyo kong paupuin no? Di naman kayo madamot sa chair? Tatlo tayong magkikita
kita tapos yung pang-dalawahan lang yung kinuha niyo? Ganyan na kayo ngayon sakin?” Sabay kuha pa
sa ibang cupcakes at aakmang aalis na sana siya ng shop.

“Mabilaukan ka sanang bakla ka.” Biglang sambit naman ni Julie.

“Ang gaganda niyo pa man din pero ganyan kasasama ang ugali niyo. Grabe kayo. Api-apihin daw ba akiz
ditey? Ganyan niyo ko mamiss?” Sabay na pagdadrama naman ni Sef sa dalawang babae.

“Haha tama na sa pagdadrama girl. Umupo ka na dito, marami ka pang uubusin na cupcakes. Kaya hinay
hinay ha?” Sabi naman ni Julie rito. Tinulak tulak naman siya ni Maqui papaupo.

“So yon nga, ikaw na merlat ka, di ka pa ba inaaya ni Elmokong magpakasal?”

“Obviously not, kasi kung oo malamang nandoon kayo di ba? Ewan ko ba Sef parang wala naman siyang
balak eh. Kasi di rin naman namin napapagusapan. Medyo workaholic na siya this past few days eh.”

“Baka naman sobrang pagpapayaman na yung ginagawa ng lalaking yan? Or baka naman talagang
pinagiipunan niya lang lahat Jules? Don’t worry iyong iyo lang yan.” Maqui assuring her.

“Haha papayaman talaga, Maq? Eh jusme si Elmokong pa ba? Para lang sa pamilya niya, gagawin niya
lahat. Basta, abangers ka lang friend or better yet bakit di mo siya tanungin, girl minsan kasi try niyo
mag-cuddle para naman may time pa kayo sa isa’t isa.” Sef suggested.

“Aba ang bakla may nalalaman ng cuddle cuddle. Ay siguro may boylet kang bruha ka? Yuck ka Sef ha!”
Natatawang sabi naman ni Julie.

“Hoy napakajudgemental mong mirat ka! Hetchu! Dati kasi di ba ang hilig niyo magcuddle, sa harap pa
nga namin, ano wala ng ganon Julieta buti pumapayag si Elmokong? Haha.” Pambabasag naman ni Sef
kay Julie.

“Puro kalokohan kayong dalawa haha! Onga, Julie why don’t you start that topic? Mamayang gabi.
Friday night naman, di ba usually the kids are having their sleepover sa Antipolo? It’s your chance na.
What do you think?” Maqui suggested.

“Yeah, kaya lang feeling ko he’s tired from work na, pero sige I’ll do my best. Sana…” Julie was
interrupted by a phone call on Maqui’s phone.

“Excuse me lang, client eh.” And Maqui excused herself. Sef and Julie just continued talking about
random things.

“Ang tagal naman ni Maqui, I need to go na. Susunduin ko na yung mga inaanak niyo.” Papaalam ni Julie
kay Sef.

“Ayan na siya.”

“Uy, Maqui dear I need to go na. Susunduin ko pa yung dalawang bata.”

“Sure, Jules. Ingat ka sa pagdadrive mo ha. Smooches!” Maqui bid goodbye to her bestfriend and
hugged her tight.

“Bye, Julieta. See you soon plus the kids! Xoxo!” And Sef gave her a peck on the cheek and hugged her
too.

‘Bye, girls. Love love love!”

*****

Julie: Hi baby, papunta na ko sa school ng mga anak natin. Okay na ba yung emergency sa site?

Elmo: Di pa masyado baby, I think I’ll be going home a little late. Around 9pm pa siguro.

Julie: Sige, ako na lang maghahatid don sa dalawang bata sa Antipolo.

Elmo: Wag na. I’ll call Frank na lang to pick them up.

Julie: Wag na baby, ako na lang. Nakakahiya naman kay Kuya eh.

Elmo: Okay lang yan. He’ll understand naman. Sige na baby love, drive safely.

Julie: Alright. Take care baby love. See you later. I love you.

Elmo: I love you too.

Saktong dating naman ni Julie sa school ng kambal.

“Hi babies. So how was school?” And the two gave her kisses all over her face.

“We had fun po nanay. We played a while ago and we drew our family.” Ethan answered.

“Look nanay oh, here’s our drawing. That’s you, that’s tatay, that’s Ethan and that’s me.” And Eloise
showed their drawing to Julie.

“Wow. Ang gagaling naman ng mga anak ko.” And she gave them kisses too.

“Nanay, look oh may stars rin po kami ni Eloise. Yehey!” Ethan and Eloise excitedly showed it to her.

“Good job babies. Sayang tatay won’t able to see that.”

“Why nanay? Where’s tatay?” Eloise asked.

“Tatay will be going home late. And Uncle Frank will pick you up later. Di ba sa Antipolo kayo
magssleepover?”

“Yes yes nanay! Mamimiss ko si tatay.” And Eloise pouted.

“Don’t worry baby, Nanay and tatay naman will fetch you tomorrow there tapos kina Momma Marivic
naman tayo magsleep. Okay ba yon? Miss na kayo ni Tita Jac and Tita Joanna.”

“Yeheeeey! Nanay, let’s go home and let’s fix our things na po. I am excited to see Uncle Barq already
and play with him.” Yaya naman ni Ethan.

“Otey baby.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie sa anak.

“Eh nanay naman stop doing that, ginagaya mo naman po kami ni Eloise eh.” And Ethan hugged his
nanay.

“Oh put your seatbelts on babies, let’s go home na.”

“Yes, Nanay! Leggo!”

*****

Tinulungan ng kambal si Julie magprepare ng mga gamit nilang dadalhin para sa sleepover ng mga anak
niya. She enjoyed this. Gustong gusto niya na nakikipagbonding siya sa mga anak niya especially pag
sinasabi ng mga ito ang mga damit na ayaw nila at kung ano ano pa.

“Nanay, your phone is ringing. I think that’s Tatay.” Eloise said to her.

“Oh yes baby, si Tatay nga.”

Elmo: Hi baby. Papunta na raw si Frank dyan. Are the kid’s ready na ba?

Julie: Yes, almost. Wait kinukulit ako ni Eloise, she wants to talk to you daw.

Elmo: Sure, give it to her. *and Julie gave the phone to Eloise*

Eloise: Hello, Tatay! Eloise misses you po. Why are you going home late tatay? Our teacher gave us stars
today because me and Ethan did a great job in school. We drew our family. *dere-derechong sabi ni
Eloise kay Elmo.*

Elmo: Aww baby, tatay has work pa kasi. Sorry. Don’t worry baby, tomorrow Nanay and Tatay will fetch
you in Momma Pia’s house then we will go to Momma Marivic’s house naman. Tatay misses you too.
Where’s Ethan?

Eloise: Wait, tatay I’ll give him Nanay’s phone. Love you, tatay! Please go home early, Nanay will be left
alone, wawa Nanay. Please?

Elmo: I will little girl. Sige na give it to the big guy. I love you too, baby girl. *Eloise passed the phone to
Ethan.*

Ethan: Hello tatay! Are you going home? Nanay told us that Uncle Frank will fetch us tonight. Nanay will
be left here in the house alone. She might get scared tatay.
Elmo: Yes, I’m about to go home big guy. Behave kayo kina Momma Pia ha? And please take care of
Eloise okay?

Ethan: I will tatay. See you tomorrow. Babye! Loveyou, tatay. Ingat ikaw po.

Elmo: Loveyou too big guy. Be good.

Julie: Grabe ka kausapin nung dalawang bata, miss na miss ka na talaga.

Elmo: Onga eh. By the way, baby I’m on my way na.

Julie: Good thing, I cooked dinner for us. Andito na si Kuya Frank baby, see you tonight. I love you baba!

Elmo: Ha? Baba? What does it mean, Jules?

Julie: It means baby, isn’t it cute? Hihi. Sige na, drive safely baba. Mwa!

Elmo: Haha! Alright. See you tonight my sweet baba!

*****

Julie is preppin’ up their dining table when someone hugged her from behind and she knew who it was.
Elmo was stunned seeing her wearing a red peplum dress matching his favorite scent of her.

“Hi baba. May dinner date pala tayo di mo man lang ako sinabihan.” And Elmo kissed her cheeks.

“Obviously baba, it’s a surprise. Namimiss kita eh. You’re too busy with work. And the kids are not here,
so solo kita tonight. Hehe.” She faced Elmo and kissed his nose.

“Aww. Sorry baby love if I am too busy with work. Sige, babawi ako sayo tonight. So what’s for dinner
honey?” And Elmo quickly kissed Julie’s lips.

“Your favorite, baby! Tah-dah! Creamy Chicken Linguine, Peppered Shrimp Alfredo and plus, may isa pa
kong surprise for you.”

“Wow! Sakto, I’m hungry na. Ano pa yung other surprise mo, mommy?”

“Later na yon baby. Let’s eat first.”

They had their dinner. Sarap na sarap naman si Elmo sa luto ni Julie. He can’t believe it na Julie would
cook for him. Alam niya kasi na hindi ito mahilig sa pagluluto and siya ang palaging nagluluto para sa
kanila.

“And here’s my other surprise for you, Red Velvet Cake!”

“Ikaw ang nagbake nito?” Elmo asked.

“I called Mommy Pia, and ayun nagpaturo ako sa kanya. Sorry if di mo magugustuhan ha? It was my first
time na magbake ng cake.” Julie said and Elmo took a spoonful bite of it.

“Hmmmmm. Delish! Galing mo mommy ah. Yan ikaw na magluluto from now on. Haha!”

“Bolero ka talaga, Magalona!”

“Here, tikman mo yung gawa mo. Ayaw mo pa maniwala sa akin. You know naman na I love sweets eh.”
At sinubuan naman ni Elmo si Julie ng cake.

“Pwede na. Pero not like sa mga restaurants na kinakainan natin.”

“I don’t care. Gawa mo ‘to kaya for me this is the best red velvet cake ever.” At inubos na nga ni Elmo
ang gawa ni Julie.

Naubos nilang dalawa ang niluto ni Julie. “Grabe baby, sobrang busog ako. You cooked well na. Good
job, baby love.” Papuri naman ni Elmo kay Julie.

“Eh kasi gusto ko naman na ako yung magluluto para sayo. Thank you for appreciating it. I love you baby
love.” At nagcheers naman sila ng white wine.

Julie washed the dishes at si Elmo naman ay nagshower. After she washed the dishes, pumunta siya
agad sa kwarto nila ni Elmo para iprepare ang pantulog nito at eksakto naman na kakatapos lang maligo
ni Elmo. Elmo saw her, niyakap niya ito ulit.

“Why do you still smell good even though pinagpapawisan ka na?” Sabi ni Elmo habang inaamoy amoy
siya.

“I always smell good to you naman eh, kaya nga nainlove ka sakin lalo di ba?” At tuloy naman si Julie sa
paghahanap ng isusuot ni Elmo. “Baby, here, yung favorite kong boxer mo and white shirt.” Sabay abot
naman kay Elmo.

“Thanks, mommy. Alam mo talaga what I really wanna wear.” And he kissed her quickly on the lips. And
Julie just smiled.

“Uhm, baba, movie marathon tayo.” Aya naman ni Julie kay Elmo.

“Sige baba, I miss doing that. What movie would you like to watch?” Elmo asked.

“I wanna watch sana Crazy Little Thing called Love baba.” Julie answered.

“Well, wala naman akong choice. Syempre yung babaeng mahal ko ang masusunod.” Sabay hila kay Julie
and he rubbed his nose to her nose.

“Asus. Papalit lang ako ng damit daddy.” At siya naman ngayon ang mabilis na humalik sa mga labi ni
Elmo.
“Uhmmm, mommy you need help?” At lalo naman niyang nilapit ang mukha niya kay Julie and he smiled
naughtily.

“Uhmm.” At sabay lipbite naman. “Paano pa tayo manonood niyan baby? Ako na lang.” And she winked.

“Pwede bang iba na lang gawin natin? Mas yon yung namimiss ko mommy eh. Solong solo kita tonight.”
And Elmo started to give Julie hot kisses on her neck. Aminado naman si Julie na gusto niya rin gawin
ang gusto ni Elmo pero mas gusto niya munang pagusapan ang tungkol sa kanilang dalawa.

“Uhmmm, baby. After na lang natin magwatch ng movie please. Gusto ko talaga panoorin yon eh,
please?” And Julie kissed him on the lips.

“Sige na nga baby. Go change your clothes na, prepare lang ako ng snacks natin ha.”

Julie changed her clothes. After that, pumunta na siya sa sofa at tumabi kay Elmo. Habang nanonood sila
ng movie, walang ginawa si Elmo kung hindi landiin si Julie, he kept on giving her hot and wet kisses on
her nape, nibbles her ears, he even put his hands inside her tank top. Julie can’t concentrate on the
movie kasi nadadala siya sa paglalandi sa kanya ni Elmo. Gustong gusto na niyang bumigay. Elmo can’t
control his self, nararamdaman na niyang unti unti na siyang nagiging hard.

“Can’t you feel it baby?” Elmo whispered to Julie’s ear.

“Uhhh, medyo nafefeel ko na siya baby. You’re so hard baby.” Julie answered in her sexy voice at
humarap naman siya kay Elmo. At hinalikan nila ang isa’t isa. They kissed as if wala ng bukas, Elmo’s
tongue invaded Julie’s mouth, at nakipagsabayan naman si Julie sa pakikipaghalikan sa kanya. Walang
humpay ang kanilang paghahalikan, Elmo’s hands starts to touch her bosoms, Julie let out soft moans.
Hindi na nakapagpigil si Elmo, ipinasok na niya ang kanyang isang kamay sa loob ng tank top ni Julie and
played one of her breasts, he can feel that Julie is so aroused with the sensation. Ramdam niya ito
because he unhooked her bra and he plays with her nipples. Elmo took off her clothes. And he started to
kiss every inch of her. She can’t stop herself not to moan. The sensation Julie’s feeling is getting more
intense, she missed this, and how Elmo makes her go cray cray by making love. They made love there
and there.

*****

After they made love, di muna sila nakatulog. They’re still on the couch. Naisipang i-open ni Julie ang
topic about sa kasal. Tingin niya kasi perfect timing yon.

“Baby love, ang tagal na natin no. Ilang years na ba tayo? 4 years? Almost 5 years. Tapos meron na
tayong dalawang bulilit.” Julie is starting to open up that topic.

“Onga. Ang tagal na pala natin eh. And I am so lucky to have you plus having those two smart kids.” And
he kissed Julie’s forehead.

“Moe, do you think it is the right time para alam mo yon.” Di matapos ni Julie yung gusto niyang sabihin
kasi natatakot siya sa isasagot ni Elmo.
“Right time for what baby?” Elmo is acting as if hindi niya alam ang gustong iparating ni Julie.

“Right time to settle down. C’mon naman, Moe.” Julie is getting pissed off sa ginagawa ni Elmo.

“Do you think so? Baka kasi masyado tayong nagmamadali na naman.” At lalo pang inaasar ni Elmo si
Julie.

“Elmo naman eh. Anong do I think so? Wala ka ba talagang balak pakasalan ako?” Halos maiyak na si
Julie sa inis.

“Meron naman, Julie eh. Pero kasi.” Di natapos si Elmo sa sasabihin niya biglang sumingit si Julie.

Umupo at humarap ng maayos si Julie kay Elmo. “Baby love, if you’re not yet ready to ask me, ako na
lang gagawa nito para sayo. Elmo Moses Arroyo Magalona, will you spend your whole life with me, Julie
Anne Peñaflorida San Jose? Will you marry me? Please say yes.”

“Jules, ano ka ba. You don’t have to ask me that. Let’s wait for the right time. Please?”

“Are you saying no?” At biglang tulo ng luha ni Julie.

“No. Syempre gusto kong pakasalan ka, pero gusto ko maging special yung araw na yon and hindi yan
tonight.” At nilapit niya ang mukha niya kay Julie and kissed her forehead.

Sumama naman ang loob ni Julie kaya humiga at tumalikod na lang siya kay Elmo.

*****

Kinabukasan ay nagising si Elmo na wala na si Julie sa tabi niya. He stood up and looked for her around
the house. He found her sitting on the bar stool in their kitchen at abalang nagbabasa ng libro while
drinking her coffee. Lumapit si Elmo and kissed her cheek.

“Tsk. Elmo ano ba.” Iritang sabi ni Julie.

“Good morning, baby.” Elmo said.

“Elmo pwede ba. Walang maganda sa umaga ko.” Sagot nito at saka na tumayo at naglakad na papunta
sa kwarto nila. Hindi naman na sumunod si Elmo. Alam naman niyang tampo si Julie sa kanya dahil sa
usapan nila kagabi. He heaved a deep sigh at saka na lang nagluto ng almusal niya.
After he ate breakfast ay nagpunta siya sa kwarto nila and found Julie coming out from the bathroom.
Kakatapos lang nito maligo and she was wearing a bathrobe and a towel wrapped on her hair.

“Julie…” he called her pero hindi siya pinansin nito. Sa halip ay tahimik lang itong nagbihis. “Julie, about
last night.” Napahinto naman si Julie at saka siya tinignan ng masama.

“Elmo pwede ba? Let’s not talk about that okay? Maligo ka na kasi susunduin pa natin yung kambal at
ihahatid sa Novaliches.” Sabi nito sabay labas ng kwarto. Napabuntung-hininga na lang si Elmo at saka
na lang pumasok sa banyo para maligo.
Nasa sala na si Julie at hinihintay si Elmo bumaba para makaalis na sila at makapunta sa Antipolo to pick
up the twins. Nagbabasa siya ng magazine when she felt Elmo’s presence in the room. She stood up,
picked up her bag and walked towards the front door.

“Bilisan mo Elmo. Nagtext na si Mommy Pia at hinahanap na tayo ng kambal.” At lumabas na ito.

The drive from Quezon City to Antipolo was filled with silence. Nakatingin lang sa labas ng bintana si
Julie habang si Elmo naman ay pasulyap sulyap sa kanya. Hindi na alam ni Elmo kung ano ang gagawin.
Alam naman niyang may kasalanan siya dahil baluktot ang sagot niya kay Julie. Pero naisip niya rin na
hindi naman nila kailangan magmadali dahil unang una sa lahat ay mahal nila ang isa’t isa. At masaya
siya sa sitwasyon nila ni Julie ngayon.

Pagdating sa Antipolo ay sumakay lang sa kotse ang mga bata at nagpaalam na rin agad sila. Aalis rin kasi
sina Pia at ang dalawang kapatid ni Elmo kaya hindi na sila bumaba. Hanggang Novaliches ay puno pa rin
ng katahimikan sa loob ng sasakyan. Hindi kumikibo si Julie at animo’y ramdam ng kambal na may
problema between their parents.

“Nanay, di kayo bati ni tatay?” Ethan asked.

“We’re okay, honey.” Simpleng sagot ni Julie.

“Nanay, you want, bili tayo ng ice cream? Sabi ng teacher namin, ice cream makes you feel better.”
Suggest naman ni Eloise. Julie just kissed them both and smiled.

“Nanay and tatay are okay, sweeties.” Sagot ni Julie.

Pagkatapos nilang ihatid sa Novaliches ang mga bata at matapos maglunch dun ay umalis na rin sila.
Kinailangan kasing magpunta ni Elmo sa Batangas para sa site inspection. Labag man sa kalooban niya na
iwan nanaman si Julie lalo pa’t di sila okay, ay kinailangan niya pa rin umalis dahil nagagalit na ang
kliyente niya.

“We’ll talk when I get home. Okay? Please don’t stay mad at me, love. Mag-iingat ka ha? Mag-isa ka lang
sa bahay. I love you.” Elmo said. Tumango na lang si Julie at saka na pumasok sa loob ng bahay nila.

*****

“Frieeeeeeeeeend!!!” sigaw ni Sef.

“Bakla, kumalma ka pwede? Bakit ba napasugod ka dito sa bahay?” tanong ni Julie.

“Hello, Ninong!” bati naman ng kambal.

“Uhm. Twinnies, who’s ninong?” maang-maaangan na tanong ni Sef. “I’m Auntie Megan Fox!” bigla
naman siyang binatukan ni Julie at saka nagtawanan ang kambal.

“Turuan daw ba ng kabadingan mga anak ko?” sabi ni Julie.

“Over ka friend. Dream lang naman na maging Megan Fox ng byuti ko, kontodo kontra ka naman over
there. Aheytchu!” pagddrama nito.

“Tsk. Eh ano ba kasing pinunta mo dito?”

“Heto na nga, friend. Kasi ganitech yun, needsung ko sana ng little groom and bride for a pictorial.”

“I thought may models ka na?”

“Yun nga problem, friend. Gumorabambam sa Singapore ang family ng models ko. Kaya ayan, desperate
housewives na akiz ever. Dali na friend. Help me na.” sabi ni Sef. “Promise, maganda naman shots ng
mga junanaks mo eh. Please. For my wedding portfolio lang.”

“Sila tanungin mo, Sef. Sa akin, ayos lang. Eh alam mo naman mga inaanak mo, mainipin yang mga yan.
Baka matagal yung shoot, magtantrums sila.” She said.

“Okay fine.” Sabi ni Sef at saka tumingin sa kambal na abalang naglalaro.

“Twinnies!” Sef called. Lumapit naman ang kambal sa kanya.

“Yes ninong?” tanong ng dalawa.

“Would you like to be ninong’s models for my pictorial?” tumingin naman ang kambal kay Julie and she
just gave them a smile. The twins nodded like there’s no tomorrow. “Ay! Winner! Kaya love na love ko
tong mga junakis mo, Julieta eh. Aylabet!” Sef said sabay palakpak pa.

“When’s the shoot ba, Sef?” Julie asked.

“Sa 24 pa friend. May 1 week ka pa.” sabi ni Sef. “Osige na ha? Dalin mo yung mga bata sa Punta Fuego.
Ha? Dun ang location ng shoot kasama yung bride and groom.” Dagdag niya pa.

“Sige. Ako na bahala magsabi kay Elmo.” Julie answered.

“Ay. Okaybels na kayo?”

“Di pa. Basta ako na bahala.”

“Winner! Osige na girl. Gora na akiz ha? See you and the twins next week. Byers!” at nagbeso na sila
before Sef left their house.

*****

August 24 came and Julie drove the kids to Punta Fuego. Inis pa rin siya kay Elmo simula nang mangyari
yung usapan na yun about their wedding. Idagdag mo pa dito na hindi makakasama si Elmo dahil
kailangan niya makipag-usap sa isang kliyente.

Pagdating sa venue ay agad silang sinalubong ng assistant ni Sef na si Karen.

“Hello kids!” bati nito sa kambal. “Hi, Ms. Julie.”

“Hello, Karen.” Bati naman ni Julie. “Si Sef?”

“Nasa garden na po. Hinihintay na po kayo.” Sagot naman nito. They went to the garden and Julie saw
that the place was very enchanting. Ewan ba niya. Basta nabighani siya sa lugar.

“Ano friend? Nganga na lang tayiz ditey? Gora na at bihisan ang mga inaanak ko. Karakaraka!!” utos nito.

“Makautos ka naman bakla. Pullout ko mga anak ko bet?” banta ni Julie. Bigla naman umamo ang
mukha ni Sef at umangkla pa sa braso ni Julie.

“Joke lang, friend. Halika na. I-makeover na natin mga junakis mo. Dali at padating na ata si Alice. Siya
yung model ko as bride eh.” Pumasok na sila sa isang kwarto at dun na binihisan at inayusan ang kambal.
Ethan looked so handsome with his coat and tie while Eloise looked stunning in her little bridal gown.

“Nanay, who’s going to get married?” Eloise asked.

“No one, sweetie. This is just ninong’s project.”

“Nanay, do I look gwapo?” tanong naman ni Ethan.

“Of course. Kamukha mo si tatay eh.” She answered. Tumango naman ang bata and gave her a hug.

“Oh, taralets bagets na Julieta. Sila ang uunahin natin. Tapos mamaya with Alice naman. Hopefully
makarating siya.”

“Bakit? Hindi ba makakadating?” Julie asked.

“Ewan ko ba dun. She called earlier saying she isn’t feeling well.”

“Sana naman makarating. Sayang punta ng mga bata.”

“I know right.” They started the shoot. Tapos after almost 2 hours ay may tumawag sa phone ni Sef.
“Hello? Huwaaaaaat?! Seriously, Alice. Aheytchu from the bottom of my hypothalamus gland! As in!!”
naiinis na sabi ni Sef sa kausap. “FO na tayo friend! Yoko na. Pachicks kang merlat ka. Hmp!” at binaba
na nito ang phone.

“Bakla, anyare?” tanong ni Julie.

“Naiimbyerna ako friend. Hindi makakadating si Alice because of diarrhea. Sarap palamunin ng 100 na
loperamide! Sure na!”

“Eh pano yan? Wala ka ng model?” Julie said. Bigla naman siyang tinignan ni Sef. Starting from her head
to her toe and back to her head. “Ano?”

“Friend, kaw na lang kaya.” Sabi naman ni Sef.

“Hoy, bakla. Tama na yung mga anak ko ha. Wag pati ako.”

“Dali na friend! Kailangan ko ipasa to by next week. Mahirap magrush ha?! Nakakastraight ng hair!”
reklamo ni Sef.

“Eeeeeh! Bakit ako pa kasi?!”

“Ang arte mo! Tsugihin kita bet? Larga na sa kwarto at magbihis! Go!” Sef said as he pushed Julie to the
hotel room. “Karen, ayusan niyo yang mujer na yan ha. Bilis!”

*****

Lumabas na si Julie wearing this elegant bridal gown. Her hair in a messy chignon.

“Ay kaloka! Gandara park friend!” puri ni Sef at kinikilig pa.

“Ewan ko sayo. Tandaan mo, Josefa, napilitan lang ako.”

“Ay hindi halata friend. F na f mo nga yung damit eh.” Pambabara ni Sef.

“Nanay! Ang kati!” reklamo ni Ethan at saka pa nagkakamot. Pilit na hinuhubad ang coat niya. “Nanay,
itchy!!” reklamo pa nito ulit. Lumapit naman si Julie sa kaniya.

“Where, sweetie?” she asked.

“Nanay, tanggal mo damit. Itchy talaga eh!” reklamo ni Ethan at nagsimula ng umiyak. “Itchy. N-
nanay…” sabi ni Ethan.

“Nanay, sakit shoes ko.” Sabay naman ni Eloise. “Remove it na, nanay.” Dagdag nito at saka pa umupo sa
damuhan.

“Baby, stand up. Madudumihan ka.” Hindi na alam ni Julie ang gagawin dahil pareho ng umiiyak ang mga
bata. Nilapitan na siya ni Sef to help her.

“Tanggalin mo na muna yung damit ni Ethan tsaka yung shoes ni Eloise. Ituloy na lang natin mamaya.”
Sabi nito. Julie removed Ethan’s coat while Sef removed Eloise’s shoes. “Ay! Winner. Ano itey?” sabi ni
Sef sabay abot ng sapatos kay Julie. Nagulat rin naman si Julie dahil may papel na nakadikit sa coat ni
Ethan. Napaluha na siya even if she hasn’t read the note yet. Handwriting pa lang kasi alam niyang kay
Elmo na. Una niyang binasa ang nasa coat ni Ethan.

“CAN’T WAIT TO MARRY YOU.” Tapos tsaka niya tinignan ang nasa sapatos ni Eloise.

“WILL YOU WALK DOWN THE AISLE AND BE MY MRS. MAGALONA? I WANNA MARRY YOU TONIGHT,
JULIE.”
THE BEAUTIFUL ENDING

“Oh. Napadalaw ka ata? Asan yung kambal?”

“Uhm. Actually papa, may importante po sana akong sasabihin sa inyo.”

“Ano yun?” the old man said.

“Maupo muna kayo diyan. Magpapakuha ako ng juice kay manang.” Sabi naman ni Marivic.

“Ano yun, Elmo?” Jonathan asked again. Huminga ng malalim si Elmo at saka tumingin kay Jonathan at
Marivic.

“Papa, mama, I know I may not be the best guy your daughter could ever have. I may have made
mistakes and I may not be the most responsible guy in the world, but I want to take this opportunity po
to ask for your blessings. I want to marry Julie na po sana.” Naluha naman ang mag-asawa nang marinig
iyon. “Alam ko po, madaming beses ko na nasaktan si Julie, pero mahal na mahal ko po siya and I can’t
live without her. She’s my everything po. Sila ng mga bata. Hindi ko po ginagawa to dahil lang may anak
na kami. I’m doing this because I want to be with her until we grow old and I’m ready to spend the rest
of my life with her.” He added. Niyakap naman siya ng mahigpit ng mama ni Julie habang si Jonathan
naman ay nakangiti sa kanya.

“You have our blessing hijo. You’ve had it ever since you loved our daughter.” Sabi nito. Tumayo naman
si Elmo and gave his soon-to-be-father-in-law a hug. Tapos niyakap niya ulit ang mama ni Julie.

“Kailan mo balak magpropose?” Marivic asked him.

“On the day of our wedding po.” He answered na ikinataka naman ng mga magulang ng dalaga.

“What do you mean?” Jonathan asked.

“I want to surprise her po sana. Gusto ko po, when I propose to her, I’m gonna marry her right then and
there.” He said and gave them a smile.

“Haha. A secret mission it is. Andito lang kami ng mama niyo to help.”

“Thank you po.”

“Teka. Alam na ba ni Pia yan?” Marivic asked.

“I’m about to tell her po, ma. I just had to come to you first. You know mom naman. Baka mauna pa siya
humingi ng blessing from you bago ako makarating dito. Hahaha.”

“The boy’s right, hon.” Natatawang sabi ni Jonathan.

“Mauna na po ako. Thank you po ulit for your blessing.” Elmo said.

“Wala yun, Elmo. And your secret’s safe with us. Goodluck! Update us ha?” Marivic said. Tumango
naman si Elmo at saka na umalis sa bahay ng mga San Jose.

He drove to Antipolo on that same day. Pinapunta niya rin ang mga kapatid niya dun dahil ang gusto
niya, lahat sila makakausap niya about the wedding.

“Good morning po, sir.” Bati ng maid nila the moment he got in.

“Good morning, manang. San po sila?”

“Nasa garden po. Hinihintay na po kayo.” Sagot naman nito. Tumango na lang si Elmo and walked
towards their garden.

“Hi, guys!” he greeted them. Nagtinginan naman ang lahat sa kanya and flashed him a smile.

“Hi, kuya!” masayang bati ni Clara sabay yakap sa kanya.

“What brought you here, son?” Pia asked.

“Yeah. And bakit kailangan kumpleto pa kami?” Maxx asked curiously.

“Chill, Maxx. I have something to tell you guys.” He started.

“Shoot.” Arkin said, his eyes glued on his iPad.

“I’m marrying Julie.” The moment he said those three words, he got everyone’s attention.

“Really?! When?!” Saab asked.

“I’m planning on the 24th. And I need your help.”

“Oh my gosh! I’m so happy for you, Mosey!!” maluha-luhang sabi ni Maxene.

“You proposed to her already?” Pia asked.

“No, I haven’t.”

“Why, bro?” Frank asked.

“Oo nga. Bakit hindi pa?” pagtataka nila Maxx at Saab.

“I’m planning to propose to her on the day of our wedding.”

“Aww. Super sweet!” sabi naman ni Clara.

“Cool yun!” Arkin commented.

“So, it’s a secret wedding?” Pia asked.

“More like a secret wedding plan.” Maxx said habang nakangiti.

“Yeah.” Elmo agreed. “I need your help. Please lang, walang madudulas kay Julie ha? Especially you,
Maxx.” Sabi niya sabay tingin ng masama sa kapatid.

“Why me?” tanong naman ni Maxx sabay turo pa sa sarili.

“Ikaw kasi pinakamadaldal.” Frank answered.

“Psh. Whatevs.” Sabi nito sabay irap.

“Hahahaha. He’s right, Maxx. When it comes to secrets, you’re not the best keeper.” Saab said.
Nagtawanan naman silang magkapatid samantalang nagpout naman si Maxx.

“Anyway, I need your help nga. With the cakes, the motifs, the giveaways, the invitation, everything!”
Elmo said.

“Maqui can bake the cake. Atleast alam na niya kung anong gusto ni Julie diba?” Frank suggested.

“Okay. So si Maq sa cake. I’ll talk to her later.” Sabi ni Elmo. “Uhm. Wedding songs? Motifs? Any
suggestions?”

“Moe, why don’t you just hire a wedding planner?” Saab asked.

“Yeah. I know a good wedding planner. She can help you with everything, Moe.” Pia said.

“Okay, mom. Thanks.”

“I’ll call her. Sasamahan ka namin ni Marivic kapag mag-uusap na kayo.” She said.

*****

“Moe, this is Alice. Siya yung wedding planner na sinasabi ko sayo.” Pia said.

“Hello, Elmo. I’m Alice and I will be your wedding planner.” Sabi nito sabay lahad ng kamay for a
handshake.

“Hi.” Bati ni Elmo as he shook her hand.

“So? Let’s get to work. Sabi ni Ms. Pia, this is a secret daw?”

“Yes. Uhm. I’m planning to propose to her on the same day of our wedding.” Sabi ni Elmo.
“Sweet. Alam mo, this would be the first time na magpaplano ako ng kasal na walang alam ang bride.”

“Haha. Mahirap ba?”

“No. It’s interesting and challenging at the same time. And don’t forget sweet ha.”

“Haha. Thanks.”

“So ano bang motif ang gusto mo?” and so they started planning this surprise wedding. Starting from
the motif, to the wedding invites, etc.

“So, her bestfriend makes the best pastries kasi. So I’m thinking, what if sa kanya yung cake and I was
thinking if cakepops would be a good idea? Para lang sa guests na kids.”

“Yeah, that would be great. Atleast she knows what the bride likes diba?”

“Yeah.”

“Hm. What about flowers? I was thinking of lilies, tulips or callalily. What do you think?”

“Sounds good.” Elmo replied.

After ng first meeting nila with Alice ay humiwalay na si Pia at Marivic kay Elmo. Sila kasi ang makikipag-
usap sa gagawa ng gowns ng mga abay. While Elmo will meet Frank to look for their wedding ring.

*****

“Bro, san mo ba balak bumili ng wedding ring?” tanong ni Frank nang magkita silang magkapatid sa mall.

“I have no idea bro. Kaya nga nagpasama ako sayo eh.”

“As if naman may alam ako sa ganyan diba?” Frank said. “Halika na nga!”

They roamed around the mall looking at jewelry shops to find the best ring a man could give a woman.
Pero wala pa rin. Hindi pa rin nakukuntento si Elmo sa mga nakikita niya.

“Dude, ang sakit na ng paa ko kakalakad.” Reklamo ng kapatid niya.

“Isang store na lang, Frank. Promise” sabi ni Elmo sabay pasok sa isang jewelry shop.

“Tiffany & Co. huh? Nice.” Frank said as he looked around the store.

“Welcome to Tiffany & Co.” bati ng isang babae.

“Hi, I’m looking for a diamond ring.” Agad namang ngumiti ang babae and motioned them to follow her.
Pinakita niya lahat ng diamond ring sa magkapatid and Elmo got attracted to this simple yet elegant-
looking ring. Kinuha niya iyon and took a closer look.
“We call it the Tiffany Bezet Round.”

“I’ll take it.” Walang anu-anong sabi ni Elmo. Nanlaki naman ang mata ni Frank at napatingin ito kay
Elmo.

“Seriously bro? Have you seen the price?” his brother asked.

“I don’t care about the price dude. Si Julie and usapan dito. Mahal man or mura, gusto ko special lahat
for her.” He answered. “Uhm, miss do you have wedding bands?” pinakitaan naman ulit siya ng
collection of wedding bands and he chose another simple yet elegant-looking ring.

“Tiffany Novo. One of our bestsellers, sir.”

“I’ll take them.” He said again. The lady nodded and went at the back of the shop to get the boxes.
Tapos Elmo handed her his card at pagkatapos nilang magbayad ay umalis na sila.

“Mahal mo talaga no?” Frank said while they’re eating in this restaurant.

“Yeah. Sobra and you know it naman eh.”

“Yes. Nakikita ko naman sa mata mo eh. The way it sparkles everytime you look at her, everytime you
hear her voice, everytime you hear her name, everytime you see something related to her. Basta. Iba eh.
Cheesy man, pero wala eh. Once you love a person, hindi mo na alam na lahat ng ginagawa mo,
ginagawa mo for her. Diba?”

“Yes, Frank. I never really imagined myself to be like this. Yung tipong, I’ll give all my time and effort in
something that would make her happy. You know me. I was never like this before.”

“Kasi nga, Julie is the one.”

“Yeah. She is.”

“Congrats! Finally, you won the heart of your long time crush.” Frank said as he patted his brother’s
shoulder.

“Haha. She was just my dream before. Pero now, she’s my reality.” Elmo said.

*****

“Tatay, where are we going?” tanong ng kambal.

“Where’s nanay?” Ethan asked.

“Nanay’s with Ninang Maqui, big guy. They’re doing grocery shopping.”

“Oh. Otey man.” Ethan answered.

“Eh, where are we going, tatay?” Eloise asked again.

“We’ll go to your Momma Pia. She wanted to see you daw.”

“Otey!” sabay na sabi ng dalawa. Pagdating nila sa isang boutique ay sinalubong agad ni Pia ang
dalawang bata.

“Momma!!” excited na sigaw ng kambal sabay takbo kay Pia.

“Hi, EJs! How’re my apos?” she asked.

“Look, momma oh. I have a star!” Ethan said as he showed Pia the star on the back of his hand.

“Me too, momma!” sabi naman ni Eloise.

“Wow! Very good naman ah.” She said proudly.

“Momma, what are we doing here?” tanong naman ni Eloise while looking around the boutique.

“They will make a dress for you. Tapos coat for Ethan naman.”

“What for?” Ethan asked. Nagtinginan naman sina Elmo at Pia.

“It’s for something lang, apo.” Sagot naman ni Pia.

“Otey, momma.” Sagot ng kambal.

Pagkatapos silang masukatan ay umalis na sila dahil nagtext na si Julie that she’s done with the
groceries.

“Did you guys had fun?” Julie asked nang masundo siya sa grocery.

“Yes nanay.” Simpleng sagot ng dalawa.

“We went to momma tapos she told us na gagawan daw kami ng dress nung guy.” Eloise said. Bigla
namang nanlaki ang mata ni Elmo. Kids can’t really keep secrets.

“Ha? Dress? What for?” pagtataka ni Julie.

“W-wala. Balak kasi sila isama ni mom sa 25th wedding anniversary ng friend niya. Kaya ayun. Pinatahian
ng damit yung kambal.” Palusot niya.

“Ah. Okay.” Sagot naman ni Julie. Elmo heaved a sigh of relief dahil hindi na nagtanong pa si Julie. Buti
na lang nakaisip agad siya ng palusot.

“Uhm, kids what do you want to eat?” tanong ni Elmo sa kambal.

“Tatay I want ice cream!” Ethan said.

“Ethan, honey hindi pa tayo nagdidinner. Later na ang dessert okay?” sabi ni Julie.

“Otey. I want chicken!!” sagot nito.

“Me too!” Eloise said.

“Okay. Let’s eat somewhere na lang.” sabi ni Elmo.

After dinner ay umuwi na sila. Sa sobrang hyper ng mga bata ay nakautulog na ang mga ito sa kotse.

“Sige, ako na bahala sa kanila.” Elmo said to Julie. Binuhat na niya ang dalawang bata at saka na sila
pumasok sa bahay. He went to their room at saka hiniga ang mga ito sa kama nila.

“Mukhang napagod yung dalawa ah. San ba kayo nagpunta nila mom?” Julie asked habang nasa kwarto
na sila ni Elmo.

“Dinala sila ni mom sa boutique nung friend niya. Napagod ata kasi nakatayo sila the whole time dahil
nga sinusukatan sila. And syempre galing sila sa school. Alam mo namang hyper sila lagi dun diba?”

“Haha. Yeah. Super enjoy na sila sa school. Not like their first day na todo iyak sila and nakakapit pa sa
ating dalawa dahil ayaw tayong pauwiin.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie.

“Oo nga. But they met new friends kaya ayan. Ayaw na tayong magstay dun kasi puro laro na ang
gusto.”

“Yeah. Mana sayo. Puro kalokohan.” Pang-aasar ni Julie.

“Hindi kaya.”

“Deny pa yan?” pangungulit nito at saka pa siya kiniliti.

“Hindi nga kasi. Hahaha. Julie, enough na.” pero she’s Julie. She never listens. Kaya ayun. Elmo kissed
her to stop her from tickling him.

“Nakascore ka dun ha.” Natatawang sabi ni Julie sabay hampas sa dibdib niya.

“Ang kulit mo kasi baby eh. Hahahaha.”

“Hmp. Taglandi!”

“Taglandi sayo.” He said and hugged her tightly. Pinaghahalikan naman ni Elmo ang buong mukha ni
Julie habang tumatawa lang naman si Julie.

“Elmo, baka maubos ako. Hahahaha.” She said.

“I love you.” Elmo said and gave her a kiss on the forehead. “I love your eyes.” And he kissed her eyes. “I
love your cute nose.” And he kissed her nose. “I love your chubby cheeks.” Sabay halik sa magkabilang
pisngi nito.

“Chubby cheeks ka diyan?!”

“Haha. Just kidding, baba.” He caressed her cheeks. “I love your lips.” Sabay smack sa lips ni Julie. “I just
love everything about you, Julie.” He whispered.

“And I love everything about you too, Elmo.” She replied and gave him a kiss on the chest. “Every inch of
you, baby.” And they kissed. A kiss full of love. Full of passion.

*****

“Baby, tumawag si Mr. Chua. He wants me to check on the site in Batangas. Mukhang may problema ata
eh.” He said the next morning.

“Aww. Sige baby. Ako na lang susundo sa kambal later.”

“Sorry. I promised them pa naman na maglalaro kami later. Kaya lang mukhang malelate ako ng uwi eh.”

“It’s okay. Ako na mag-eexplain sa kanila. Sige na. Baka magalit lalo si Mr. Chua pag di ka pa nagpunta
agad dun.” Sabi ni Julie. Elmo gave her a kiss on the lips at saka na nagpaalam.

“I’ll go home as soon as possible. Solo kita tonight.” Sabay kindat pa dito. Umalis na siya ng bahay nila at
saka na tinawagan ang papa ni Julie.

“Oh, Elmo. Nakaalis ka na ba?”

“Opo, pa. I’m on my way na po.” He said.

“Osige. Ingat, hijo.”

“Thank you po.” At saka na siya nagdrive papuntang Novaliches. Sila kasi ni Jonathan ang may lakad
ngayon. Pupuntahan kasi nila ang venue para sa kasal. Sa Punta Fuego sa Batangas.

When they arrived at the place ay agad silang sinalubong ni Alice. Tapos nagtour na sila around the
resort. Pinakita ni Alice kung saan niya balak gawin ang kasal. Pinakita rin kung saan ang reception at
lahat ng pwedeng gawin sa resort sa araw ng kasal nila. After that, they had a meeting with the caterer.
Silang tatlo ang nagtaste test sa mga pagkain. Choosing food that Julie would love.

“I was thinking no, since may babies kayo ni Julie, what if maglagay tayo ng candy buffet? It’s a trend
nowadays.” Alice suggested.

“Hm. Yeah. That would be great.” Jonathan said.

“You think so, pa?” tanong ni Elmo.

“Oo naman. Para naman may twist yung wedding niyo diba? Hindi lang puro pang adult ang pagkain.
And besides, madami namang young-at-heart sa family. Hahaha.”

“Hahaha. Oo nga po. Sige, Alice. Let’s have a candy buffet.”

“Good! So, nakausap mo na ba yung gagawa ng cake?”

“Si Maqui? I haven’t talked to her yet. Wait. Tatawagan ko siya.” Elmo dialled Maqui’s number and after
ilang rings naman ay sinagot na ito ng kaibigan.

“Moe, napatawag ka? Bakit hindi ka kay Julie tumawag?”

“Ikaw talaga kakausapin ko, Maq. I have a favor.”

“Oh. Ano yun?”

“Julie and I are getting married na kasi diba? And the last time we talked, nakalimutan kong sabihin na if
pwede, ikaw na lang ang magbake ng cake for our wedding?”

“Sus! Yun lang ba? Sure sure. Ako na bahala. I have the perfect idea for your wedding cake.”

“Thanks, Maq! Tsaka pala, I’m thinking of cakepops. For the candy buffet sana.”

“Sure. So wedding cake and cakepops. Got it, Moe.”

“Thank you so much, Maq. Nga pala. Andiyan ba si Julie sa shop mo?”

“Yeah. Kakausapin mo ba?”

“No. Tatawag na lang ako sa kanya later. Sige. Thank you ulit, Maq. You girls take care.” And he hung up
the phone.

“So? What did Maqui say?” Jonathan asked.

“Okay na po, pa.” he answered.

“Good. So everything’s almost done. We just need a good plan kung paano natin mapapapunta si Julie
dito.” Alice said.

“I have an idea.”

*****

“Sef, Elmo’s here.” Karen said.

“Papasukin ang mokong. Karakaka, Maria Karenina. Go!” utos ni Sef sa assistant niya. Elmo entered his
office at pinagtaasan naman siya ng kilay ng kaibigan ni Julie.
“Yes, Elmokong? Nadayo ka sa castle ko?”

“Sef, I need your help.”

“Help? Hindi libre yan, Mokong.”

“I know, I know. It’s for the wedding.”

“Ay! Havey. Okay go. Anetch ba yan?” bigla namang naging interesado si Sef.

“I need you to ask Julie na gawing model ang kambal.”

“Model? Elmokong, naghihirap ka na ba at kailangan pagtrabauhin ang mga inaanak ko? Goodness
gracious! Child abuse!!”

“Sira! For the wedding nga diba? Nagets mo ba ko?”

“For the wedding? Ahhhh! Akala ko wala ka ng anda eh. Hahahaha. Kalmation lang!”

“Anyway, yun nga. Since the role of the twins are the little groom and bride, naisip ko na kunyare you
need a model for a wedding portfolio.”

“Oh tapos?”

“Tapos, kunyare at the day of the shoot hindi makakasipot yung kinuha mong model as bride. Then
you’ll ask Julie to be the model. Kaya mo na mapapayag yun. Then, ako na bahala sa ibang gagawin.”

“Ay! Bet ko yan! Bet ko yan!! Magagamit ko na ang inner acting skills ko. As in pang Gawad Urian ang
peg ko nun. Aylabet!” Sef said. “Sige Elmokong. 1 month deposit, 2 months advance ang bayad.
Php100,000 all in all.”

“Sef, ano to? Bahay? May ganyan pa?”

“Joke lang kasi. Oh sige na. Ako na bahala. I’ll be the best actress on that day. Kakabugin ko si Nora
Aunor!”

“Hahaha. Sef, thank you ha?”

“Sus. Waley pa akiz ginagawa. Tsaka na yang thank you chenes mo na yan.”

“Hahahaha. Basta thank you. Sige. I have to meet with the flower arranger pa.”

“Okay fine. Fly na Mokong. Goooo!” Elmo left Sef’s office and went to the flower arranger.

*****

“Mosey! I like this one!” Maxx said holding the yellow roses.
“Maxx, you’re not the one getting married. So next time na yan.”

“Tsk. Kontrabida.” Sabi nito sabay irap.

“What about this Moe? Blue lilies then orange roses?” Saab suggested sabay pakita sa kanya ng mga
bulaklak.

“Yeah. Bagay yan for the bridesmaids. Tapos orange tulips for Julie. Diba?” sabi ni Maxx.

“Tapos yung sa flower girls, they’ll wear orange daisies as crowns. Odiba? Then sa boys naman, they
have blue roses sa coat pockets nila.” Clara added.

“Yeah. That would be great.” he answered. They placed their orders and after that, went back to the
boutique to pick up their gowns and also Julie’s.

*****

“Galit pa rin po si Julie sa akin.” He said. Magkasama sila nila Pia at ang magulang ni Julie.

“What happened ba, son?” Pia asked.

“She asked me po kasi kung kailan namin balak magpakasal. I told her na wag kami magmadali. Tapos
nagalit po siya sa akin.”

“Hahaha. Ganun talaga. Syempre inisip rin siguro ni Julie na lumalaki na yung mga apo namin kaya
ganun.” Marivic said.

“Gusto ko na nga po aminin sa kanya about my plans kaya lang, I have to surprise her. And also, naisip
ko rin po na maganda rin na medyo may tampuhan kami. Atleast diba? Mas effective yung surprise ko.”
Sabi niya. Tumango naman ang tatlo sa kanya.

“Buti na lang hindi ka napaamin. Sayang naman yung effort. Sa isang linggo na ang kasal niyo.” Jonathan
said.

“Oo nga po eh. Buti na lang talaga.”

*****

“Sef asked if the kids could model for him. Para daw sa portfolio niya.” Julie said. Halata sa boses nito na
nagtatampo pa rin siya kay Elmo. Gusto na sana aminin ni Elmo ang lahat but he kept mum about his
plans. Kailangan niyang tiisin muna ang galit ni Julie.

“Sure. Kailan ang shoot?” he asked.

“Next week. Sa Punta Fuego.”

“Aww. I wanted to come sana.”

“Bakit? May lakad ka nanaman? Alam mo, Elmo napapansin ko sayo hindi ka na napipirmi dito sa bahay
ha. Umamin ka nga. May babae ka ba?”

“Julie, I was just busy with work. Alam mo naman how perfectionist Mr. Chua is. Gusto nung bawat sulok
napapalitada.”

“Ewan ko sayo. Asawahin mo si Mr. Chua. Magkakapalit na kayo ng mukha dahil you’re always
together.” Sabi ni Julie sabay talikod sa kanya at saka na natulog. Napailing na lang si Elmo at saka na
lang sinubukang matulog.

“I’m sure, you’ll be the happiest bride when that day comes Julie. Babawi ako sayo on our wedding day.”
He thought.

*****

“Kids, tatay will go na.” paalam ni Elmo sa mga bata.

“Tatay, san kaw punta?” Eloise asked at saka pa nagpakarga.

“I have work today, sweetie.” Nagpout naman ito sa kanya.

“Di ikaw sama sa amin nila nanay?” tanong ni Ethan habang hinihila ang pantalon ni Elmo.

“Tatay can’t eh. I’d love to kaya lang di pwede.”

“Bakit?”

“Wag niyo kulitin si tatay. Baka malate pa siya sa work. Halina kayo, you have to take a bath pa.” Julie
said to the twins. Tumingin naman si Elmo sa kanya as if apologizing to her pero hindi siya pinansin ng
dalaga. “Tara na, kids. Go inside the bathroom na. You have to take a bath pa.” tawag ulit nito sa
kambal.

“Babye tatay!” sabi ni Eloise sabay kiss sa buong mukha ni Elmo. “Bati na kayo ni nanay please?” bulong
nito before she wiggles out of her dad’s embrace.

“Babye tatay!” sabi naman ni Ethan sabay yakap kay Elmo. “Wag na kayo away ni nanay ha? Love ka
niya!” pahabol pa ni Ethan. Tumango naman si Elmo at saka ginulo ang buhok ng anak.

“Be good you guys. Wag kukulitin si nanay ha?” paalala ni Elmo.

“Otey man!” sagot ng mga ‘to sabay takbo papasok ng kwarto nila.

“Baby, aalis na ko.” Elmo said to Julie.

“Sige.”
“Uhm. See you later.” Tumango na lang si Julie at saka na pumasok sa kwarto ng mga bata. Napailing na
lang si Elmo at saka na lang umalis na ng bahay.

Habang nagddrive ay dinial na niya ang number ni Jonathan.

“Hello, pa?”

“Oh, hijo. Nasan ka na?”

“I’m on my way na po.”

“Galit pa rin ba anak ko sayo?”

“Ah. Opo eh. Hindi pa rin ako kinakausap eh.”

“Hahaha. Hayaan mo, anak. Makakabawi ka din. Remember, today is your wedding day. Wag ka na
magmukmok diyan.”

“Opo, pa. Ah eh. Nasa Batangas na po ba kayo?”

“Oo. Nandito na kami. Pati ang mama at mga kapatid mo andito na.”

“Okay po. I’m on my way na po.”

“Osige. Mag-ingat ka. See you.”

“Thank you po, pa.”

*****

“Moe!” tawag ni Alice as soon as he got out of the car.

“Uy.”

“Your family’s here. Yung caterers, I told them to come by 3pm. Siguro by that time the ceremony is on
going and makakapag-prepare na sila. Then the flowers will be delivered around 1:30. I also ordered
wisteria flowers ha? For the decors in the garden and sa reception. Also, Julie will arrive at around 11am.
The shoot will last for 2 hours until I call Sef para pilitin siyang maging model. Then I’ll put the proposal
questions inside Ethan’s coat and Eloise’s shoe while she’s dressing up. Okay ba?” napangiti naman agad
si Elmo just by imagining it. “Moe? Ano? Okay na ba?” Alice asked while snapping her fingers in front of
his face.

“Ha? Y-yeah. Thank you so much, Alice. Sobrang laki ng tulong mo.”

“Sus. Thank me later. Di pa nagsastart yung kasal.”

“Hahahaha. Oo nga but still, thank you na din.”

“Haha. You’re welcome. And by the way. Congrats!”

“Thanks.”

“Anyway, Sef texted me. Malapit na daw si Julie kaya if I were you, magtatago na ako. Your room is
located next to your brothers’. Dun sa last villa. Punta na dun baka maabutan ka pa ni Julie.”

“Hahaha. Sige. I’ll see you later.”

“Go!” at nagmadali na si Elmo pumunta sa villa na sinabi ni Alice.

“Bro!” Frank called him.

“Uy.”

“You ready?”

“Yes.”

“I’m just so happy for you dude. Finally, you found the girl.”

“Yes. Finally, Frank. Finally, my dreams came true.”

“Yeah. Osige na. You better get ready. I’ll just go to Maqui.”

“Andito na si Maq?”

“Yeah. And guess what?”

“What?”

“Ang ganda nung cake. Promise.” He winked at his brother and patted his shoulder before leaving.

*****

“I’m happy that finally, ikakasal ka na.” his mom said.

“Me too, mom. And believe it or not, kahit ako nagplano ng lahat, I still can’t believe that this is finally
happening in real life.”

“Why?”

“You’ll know later mom.” Nakangiting sabi niya. “I’m saving it for everyone to hear.”

“Well, whatever it is, I know it will be worth the wait.” Tango lang naman ang naisagot ng binata.
“You’re pop is very proud of you.” Pia added. “We all are, Moe.”
“I miss him na mom.”

“We all do, Moe. We all do. But he’s in a happy place now. And even if he isn’t with us, I know naman na
he is watching over us.”

“I just wish na andito pa siya to see me getting married to the woman I love.”

“Alam ko yun. And I know na his passing away is the reason why you rebeled on us.”

“I’m sorry, mom.” Naiiyak na sabi ni Elmo. “For everything…” he added as he hugged his mom.

“ It’s okay sweetie. Kahit pasaway ka, kahit ikaw ang pinakasuwail, we are all proud of what you’ve
become.”

“Julie’s the reason for all of this, ma.”

“Yes, I know. Pero ikaw din naman eh. You wouldn’t change for the better if ayaw mo talaga diba? Even
if you love her.”

“I guess.”

“Basta anak, the decision you made is the best decision ever. And I’m very proud of you.” His mom said.
“Hay. Sige na. Go get ready na. Masisira make-up ko dahil sa kadramahan natin eh.” At lumabas na si Pia
sa kwarto ni Elmo.

*****

“Okay, people. Please take your sits na po. We’ll wait for Julie na.” sabi ni Alice habang pinapaupo na
ang guests. “Asan na yung entourage?” lumapit na sa kanya lahat ng abay and she started to direct them
to their positions. Maya-maya ay nakareceive siya ng text and she smiled. “She’s coming. Get ready
everyone!”

*****

Feels Like Home playing…

The song started playing and everyone started walking. Habang hinihintay ni Elmo ang pagdating ni Julie,
ay hindi naman niya mapigilan ang pagbilis ng heartbeat niya.

“Calm down, bro. She’s the most beautiful bride in the world.” Sabi ni Frank.

He looked at the entourage and waited for the woman he’s going to marry. Finally, he saw the twins. His
little twins na may dalang maliit na banner with the words, “HERE COMES THE BRIDE” at napangiti siya.
He stood up straight, stopped himself from fidgeting and waited. Just waited for the most amazing thing
to happen.
As soon as Julie started walking, hindi na niya napigilan ang luha niya. He cried. Tears of joy. Tears of
excitement. Lahat na. He couldn’t contain his happiness. He wanted so much to run towards her and kiss
her right then and there pero hindi pwede. Gusto niya hahalikan niya si Julie in front of everyone and in
front of God.

“Told ya.” Frank, his bestman, whispered. Frank patted him lightly on the shoulder and it was his cue
para lapitan si Julie.

*****

“Moe, ano to?” Julie asked as tears continue falling from her eyes. Elmo just smiled at her and then held
her hand.

“Hi, baby.”

“Elmo, ano ba to?” Julie asked again. Elmo smiled again.

“Baby, this is it. Ito na yung hinihintay natin na mangyari. I know what I said before hurt you. Pero
kailangan kong gawin yun para di masira yung plano ko. At heto na nga. Everything is finally falling into
place. Lahat nagkakatotoo na. Yung pangarap ko na lang ang hindi pa.”

“Ha? What do you mean?” Julie asked curiously but instead of answering, Elmo knelt down and took out
a small box.

“Julie, baby. You are my dream and my everything. Can you make my dreams come true by marrying
me?” he asked at saka pa binuksan ang box and everyone saw the diamond ring inside. Lahat nakaabang
sa sagot ni Julie.

“Yes. Yes na yan bakla!” narinig ni Elmo na bulong ni Sef.

“Psst. Manahimik ka. Ikaw ba si Julie?” Maqui sushed him.

“Ang bagal kasi sumagot. Kaimbyerna!”

“Shut up, Josefa!”

Julie stared at him. Eyes, watery.

“Elmo will you stand up.” Sabi niya.

“I won’t until you say yes.” Sagot naman ni Elmo.

“Yes na kasi bakla!!” sigaw ni Sef. Binatukan naman siya ni Maqui at saka pa kinurot. “Mamaya ka saken,
Marie Frencheska. Mamaya ka talaga saken.” Banta nito sa kaibigan.
Elmo waited for Julie’s reply. Hindi niya kasi alam kung oo pa rin ba ang sagot nito after what happened
last time. He was still in the middle of convincing himself that Julie was still mad when he heard her
say…

“Yes.”

“Ha?” Siya naman ngayon ang nagulat.

“Yes, Elmo. I will marry you.” She said again. Niyakap naman siya agad ng binata at saka sinuot ang
singsing sa kanya.

“Shall we?” he asked and motioned for her to walk down the rest of the aisle.

“Yes.” Sagot ni Julie.

*****

The ceremony started and every one of them was smiling. Lahat masaya para sa dalawang taong nasa
harapan nila. And then the saying of the vows came and everyone started to tear up. Unang nagsalita si
Elmo sa kanila. He took out the paper he has in his pocket and with hands shaking, he started to read it…

“Julie Anne Peñaflorida San Jose, baby nasurprise ba kita? Sorry ha, yung dahilan kung bakit ako naging
sobrang busy this past few weeks kasi I was preparing for this. Wala naman talaga akong inasikaso sa
site. Sorry kung nagsinungaling ako baby ha, I just really wanted to surprise you and make this day
perfect. You know, I have so many things that I want to say. And I’ll take this chance to say it all, I’ll say it
infront of all these people because they all have been witnesses of how we started so now that we
finally start this new chapter in our lives I want them to see and hear just how much I love you…” at
huminga siya ng malalim and started to read again.

“So here it goes, we didn’t meet in a typical way. What happened in the party was not an accident.
Sinadya kong banggain ka because I don’t know any other way to approach you, natorpe ako Julie. I
decided to be your enemy, when you met me I wasn’t in the best place, I was a jerk. I always thought of
my life as a wreckage, it’s like I’m waking up each day without a purpose. I’m such a messed up person.
Then you came and everything suddenly changed. That night. That night that changed everything. I
don’t regret what happened, the truth is I’m actually thankful because of that I got close to you. And you
gave me the twins…” he looked at her and smiled. Ngumiti rin naman si Julie kasabay ng pagtulo ng mga
luha niya.

“Maybe I was a jerk before, but you changed all of that. You changed me. You took away all of the pain. I
thank God for sending you to me, for giving me someone who made me a better man. Baby I know
nasaktan kita noon, I know that I made you cry. You doubted me a couple of times but I understand.
Alam ko naman na kasalanan ko eh. I just want you to know that everytime you leave me, everytime you
doubt me, I will always be there running after you, making you understand that I will never try to break
your heart because I want to be the one to hold it together. I want to love you everyday that I’m gonna
spend with you. I want to be the only man who will give you so much love. I can never promise that you
won’t cry again because of me but always remember how much I love you and will always will. I can only
promise you that I will always be your protector, baby. I will never ever hurt you intentionally because
your pain will always be my pain. And despite of all the pain I put you through, you’re still here loving
me. I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I know that I will take care of you till the last breath I
take.”

“Fate tried many times to bring us apart. Nagkagalit tayo, nagkahiwalay, nagkasakitan but in the end
fate also brought us back together. ‘Cause I know we belong together, not even destiny could change
that, nothing will ever change that. You’re everything that matters to me. You are my happiness. You are
my strength. You are my dream and my reality. And for me you are the closest thing to the word perfect.
At ipagsisigawan ko sa buong mundo kung gaano kita kamahal, Julie.” He took her hand and raised it to
let everyone see. “Hey everyone! Listen, I love this woman standing beside me, together promising in
front of God that we will love each other forever…” nagpalakpakan naman ang mga tao and you can also
hear ‘awws’ from them. Everyone’s in tears. Sino bang hindi? They’re witnessing the most beautiful
thing in the world.

“I love you Julie, my world will never be the same without you ‘cause you’re the only one that will ever
hold my heart and soul. I love how you make me smile and laugh, I love how you brighten each day I
spend with you that I everytime I wake up I just can’t help but smile knowing you’ll be there to make my
day. You made me happy, you gave me love. Wala na akong mahihiling pa. The rest I can live without, I
can live without anything but I can’t live without you, without the twins. You’re my home, my heart
belongs to you always and through all eternity it will be yours, Mrs. Julie Anne Magalona.” He finished
his vows by whispering an ‘I love you’ to her. Hindi naman mapigilan ang luha ni Julie. She never
expected to hear those from him.

It was now Julie’s turn to say her vows…

“Oh my gosh, I don’t know what to say. I didn’t expect this, you really surprised me. Baby naman eh!
Hindi tuloy ako prepared. Kainis ka!” nagtawanan naman ang mga bisita sa kaniya. Julie took a deep
breath and looked at Elmo. Tapos ngumiti siya when he smiled at her. “But thank you Elmo. Thank you
baby. Now I will just say what my heart tells me. Yes, you did hurt me but I never stopped loving you. I
will never regret loving you Elmo. I will love you despite what this world will put in our way. It has been a
long wait but it was all worth it. I’m so contented with just being with you and the twins. When you hug
me it feels like I belong there. When you hold my hand, I don’t ever wanna let go. When you kiss me I
don’t want to stop. And when you said that you love me, I feel like I’m the luckiest girl in the world.” She
said and smiled at him again.

“You never left my side even if I pushed you away. You always make me your number one priority. Moe,
I will always love the little things you do for me. You blow me with surprises everytime, even if there’s
nothing to celebrate. And you loved my family as if it were your own. I promise that when everything
fails, I will always be at your back.”

“Elmo sabi mo noon, I’m the best thing that ever happened to you. Ganun ka din sa akin. You and the
twins are the best thing that God gave me. I found my other half in you. I will never love anyone else but
you. I know you’ll always be here beside me together with our babies. Everything feels complete now.

I don’t want to just grow old with you, baby. I want to grow old and still in love with you. You are my
number one. My only one. My happiness. My infinity. My forever. My wish come true and my happy
ever after…” hindi na napigil ang mga luha niya. Her love for him was overwhelming at alam niyang
ganun rin si Elmo sa kanya. Elmo was crying the whole time too. Pero isang ngiti niya lang, ngingiti na rin
ito sa kanya.

“And right now, I’m just so happy. This is it. I’m gonna spend the rest of my life with you, baby. I love you
more than words can say. Thank you and I love you so much Elmo Moses Magalona.”

After their exchange of vows ay nagpatuloy na ang ceremony until the most waited,

“I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” Said the priest. Elmo raised
Julie’s veil and cupped her face.

“KISS!!! KISS!” sabi ng mga bisita nila. And they kissed. Finally, it was their first kiss as husband and wife.
Naghiyawan at nagpalakpakan naman ang mga bisita.

“More!! More!!” sigawan ng mga kabarkada ni Elmo. Nagtawanan naman sila pero pinagbigyan na rin ng
bagong kasal.

Everyone’s in a happy state. After the traditional picture taking and their exit, Alice guided everyone to
the reception area.

*****

‘I was a quick wet boy, diving too deep for coins, All of your street light eyes wide on my plastic
toys, Then when the cops closed the fair, I cut my long baby hair, Stole me a dog-eared map and called
for you everywhere’

It was the couple’s first dance at abala ang lahat sa pagkuha ng picture and videos sa kanila.

“Nakakainis ka alam mo yun?” Julie told him.

“Why?”

“Ang dami mo kasing alam eh. May pa-secret wedding pang nalalaman.”

“Hahaha. Ayaw mo ba?” he asked and pulled her closer.

“Syempre gusto. Kikiligin ba ko kung ayaw ko?” sagot naman nito.

“Hahaha. Good. By the way. Happy anniversary, baby.” He said.

“Ha? Kakakasal lang natin, anniversary agad?”

“Hahaha. Baby, anniversary din natin as boyfriend-girlfriend ngayon. You forgot?”

“Hahahaha. Oo nga pala. Super natabunan na ata ng kilig baby. Sorry kung nagtampo ako sayo ha?”
Jullie said as she rested her head against Elmo’s chest.
“It’s okay. Maganda naman pambawi ko sayo eh.”

“Hahaha. Oo nga. Talino mo talaga no? Kakaiba kang bumawi.” Pang-aasar niya. “But I loved it. This is
the best peace offering ever, baby.” She said and gave him a hug. Maya maya ay kinalabit ni Jonathan si
Elmo.

“May I dance with my princess?” he asked.

“Yes sir.” Sagot naman ni Elmo. Sakto, the song playing was Butterfly Kisses. Perfect for a father-
daughter dance.

“I didn’t imagine it to be this great.” Umpisa ni Jonathan.

“You were behind this din, papa?” Julie asked. Tango at ngiti lang naman ang sinagot ng ama. “Daya niyo
alam niyo yun? Ako kaya anak mo. Hahaha.”

“Yeah. Kaya nga we kept it from you eh. We wanted to surprise you as well.”

“Galing niyo po ha.”

“Haha. Magaling ang asawa mo, anak.” Napangiti naman si Julie sa sinabi niya. “You are very lucky to
have a guy like him. I know he has hurt you before but still, he won your heart. And he won ours too.
The moment he told us that he’s willing to take responsibility, he already won our trust. He may have
hurt you a lot of times pero hindi siya sumukong humingi ng tawad sayo. He loved you unconditionally.
And he treated you like a queen. He sacrificed a lot for you and made you the center of his world. Kaya
anak, I’m very proud to have him as my son-in-law.” Sabi ni Jonathan. Naiyak si Julie sa mga sinabi ng
papa niya kaya’t napayakap naman agad siya dito.

“Thank you papa.”

“I love you anak. And I’m happy for you.”

“I love you too, pa.”

Julie danced with the other boys as well. Sinayaw siya ni Frank, Arkin, ng Yolo boys at ni Sef…

“Seryoso, bakla? Isasayaw mo ko?” tanong niya dito.

“Wag ka, girl. Napipilitan lang akiz.” Mataray na sabi nito sa kanya.

“Hahahaha. Halata nga. Tignan mo nga itsura mo. Ang panget mo!” pang-aasar ni Julie.

“Kapal mo ha. Eh ikaw? Bridezilla! My gosh!”

“Sama mo naman!”

“Hahahaha. Joke lang friend. Di ka naman majoke. Heytchu!”

“Haha. Pero bakla, thank you ha?”

“Ay. Drama na ito. Uhm. DJ! Party songs na. Oo.” Sabi ni Sef.

“Tsk. Naman kasi eh. Minsan lang to! Pagbigyan mo na ko.” Iritang sabi ni Julie sa kaibigan.

“Okay fine. Gora!”

“Thank you talaga ha?”

“For what?” tanong ni Sef as they swayed to the music.

“For making me realize that he is the one.”

“Ay. Akiz pa ba? Sinasabi ko sayo, Julieta. I may seem like the chaka friend but when I say something,
seryoso talaga yun.”

“Kaya nga thank you eh. Kung di mo siguro ko pinagsabihan, I wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t have the man
I’ve been wishing for. Kung di mo ko inuntog sa katotohanan, baka nawala sa akin si Elmo.”

“Kasi naman friend. Minsan, kailangan iniitsapwera ang kagagahan. Pasalamat ka talaga that time, di
nakasumpong kagagahan ko eh. Kundi waley na! Relationship over na kayo ni Mokong.”

“Alam ko. Kaya super thankful ako sa inyo ni Maqui. You never gave up on me. On us. Kahit na ako na
mismo yung bumibitaw sa aming dalawa, andyan kayo ni Maq to keep me from letting him go. Andyan
kayo para pagsabihan ako.”

“That’s what friends are for!” kanta naman ni Sef. “Nako, friend. I’m telling you. Elmo is your best
karma. Sa lahat ng kagagahan mo sa buhay. Sa lahat ng kashungahan at kabobohan mo. Dumating ang
isang tulad niya na kinabog si Adonis sa pagkaperfect!” bigla naman siyang nabatukan ni Julie. “Aray ha!”

“Yung totoo, John Paul Joseph Cadayona. Pinagnasaan mo ba minsan sa buhay mo yung asawa ko?”

“Kapal mo ha! Porket pinuri, pinagnasaan na agad? Di ba pwedeng masaya lang for you?!” sagot nito.
Niyakap naman siya ni Julie ng mahigpit.

“Thanks. You and Maqui are my bestfriends talaga.”

“Hmp! Bipolar! Ewan sayo. Gorabambam na lang nga ako sa pagkain. Che!” at umalis na ito. Julie was
about to sit on her place nang biglang mawala lahat ng ilaw and a spotlight was focused on her.

“He wants to make you smile whenever you’re sad. Carry you around when your arthritis is bad. Oh all
he wants to do is grow old with you.” Narinig niyang kanta ng isang bata. She looked around but sees no
one.

“He’ll give you medicine when your tummy aches. Build you a fire if the furnace breaks. Oh it could be so
nice growing old with you.” Kanta nanaman ng isa pang bata.
“I’ll miss you, kiss you. Give you my coat when you are cold. Need you, feed you. Even let you hold the
remote control.” And she heard him. Biglang lumabas si Elmo kasama ang kambal. Napaluha naman si
Julie. She felt like this is too much already. Na parang nag-uumapaw na yung saya sa puso niya.

“So let us do the dishes in our kitchen sink. Put you to bed when you’ve had too much to drink…” sabay-
sabay na kanta ng tatlo.

“Oh I could be the man who grows old with you.” Elmo sang. He walked near Julie and held her hand.
“I’ll miss you, I’ll kiss you. I’ll give you my coat when you are cold. Need you, feed you. I’ll even let you
hold the remote control. So let me do the dishes in our kitchen sink. Put you to bed when you’ve had
too much to drink. Oh I could be the man… who grows old with you. I wanna grow old with… you.” He
finished. Nagpalakpakan naman ang mga tao and the twins hugged both of them.

“Bati na si nanay at tatay!” sigaw ng dalawang bata na siya namang ikinatuwa ng mga bisita. Elmo and
Julie carried their kids and kissed them. Tapos pinagkiss naman ng kambal ang nanay at tatay nila at saka
pa nagpalakpakan.

It was indeed a happy moment in their lives. After the party ay nagpasalamat na ang bagong kasal sa
lahat ng nagpunta.

“Thank you for coming to this special day. To mom, papa and mama and my siblings. For helping me out.
To Joanna and Jac for being the best secret keepers. To Maqui, for being the best friend, my wife could
ever have and for baking the cake. Thanks, Maq! To Sef, for being the best actor-slash-actress and for
telling my wife that I am the one. To my friends: Derrick, Kris, Steven and Alden for telling me how much
of a loss it would be if I let Julie go. To Alice, for being the best wedding planner. And of course, to Julie.
For being my Mrs. Magalona and for giving me not just one but two adorable kids. And to my twins. For
being the best gift that God has given us. Tatay loves you.” Elmo said.

“Thank you guys. To mom, for bringing Elmo into this world. To mama and papa for being the best
parents in the world. To Ate Maxx, Kuya Frank, Ate Saab, Barq and Clows. For treating me like family. To
JM and Jac, for being the annoying yet best sisters I could ever have. To Elmo’s friends for being bullies
yet being one of the best friends Elmo and I could have. To Maqui and Sef. For not giving up on me even
if I am the most annoying and bipolar friend in the whole wide world. Thank you because you never left
my side. To Alice. Thank you for making my husband’s dream possible. And to you, Elmo Magalona. For
coming into my life. And of course to my Ejs, nanay’s very happy to have you in my life. I love you.” Julie
said. Nagpalakpakan ulit ang mga bisita.

*****

They may have met in a very wrong timing way, but they were meant to meet that way because both
are destined for each other. Elmo may seem to be your typical bad boy but when he met Julie, he
changed for the better. He never knew that he’ll need someone like her to come to his senses and to
finally be the responsible guy that he is. Julie on the other hand, may seem like your typical girl-next-
door but meeting Elmo made her a whole new girl. A girl who became more mature. She never knew
that she’ll need Elmo until she almost lost him.

*****
For the way you changed my plans
For being the perfect distraction
For the way you took the idea that I have
Of everything that I wanted to have
And made me see there was something missing, oh yeah

For the ending of my first begin

(Ooh, yeah yeah, ooh, yeah yeah)
And for the rare and unexpected friend
(Ooh, yeah yeah, ooh, yeah yeah)
For the way you’re something that I’d never choose
But at the same time, something I don’t wanna lose
And never wanna be without ever again

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

So when you were here I had no idea
You the best thing I never knew I needed
So now it’s so clear, I need you here always

My accidental happily
(Ever after)
The way you smile and how you comfort me
(With your laughter)
I must admit you were not a part of my book
But now if you open it up and take a look
You’re the beginning and the end of every chapter

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

So when you were here I had no idea
(When you were here)
You the best thing I never knew I needed
(That I needed)
So now it’s so clear, I need you here always
(Now it’s so clear)

Who knew that I could be

(Who knew that I could be)
So unexpectedly
(So unexpectedly)
Undeniably happier
Sitting with you right here, right here next to me
Girl, you’re the best

You’re the best thing I never knew I needed

(Said I needed)
So when you were here I had no idea
(When you were here)
(Said I had no idea)
You’re the best thing I never knew I needed
(That I needed)
So now it’s so clear I need you here always
(Now it’s so clear)
(So clear, so clear, I need you always)

Now it’s so clear, I need you here always

EPILOGUE

"Come on big guy. You can do it! Tatay's gonna catch you." Elmo said. Nasa pool sila and Ethan is
standing on the edge of the pool, getting ready to jump.

"But, tatay it's too deep!" he said.

"Trust tatay lang, Ethan. Come on." Elmo said.

"I'm scared tatay."

"You can do it honey. Come on." sabi ni Julie. Tumingin sa kanya si Ethan, his eyes watery.

"Nanay, I think Ethan's really scared." Eloise said.

"He can do it sweetie. Mana kay tatay yan diba? Brave ka diba?" Julie said. Tumango naman si Ethan at
saka nagpunas ng luha.

"Ready?" Elmo asked. Tumango si Ethan and positioned himself on the edge of the pool again. "On the
count of three. 1...2...3!" tumalon na si Ethan at agad naman siyang sinalo ni Elmo.

"Yehey!!!" sigaw ni Eloise.

"Tatay I did it! I did it!" sigaw ng bata.

"Hahaha. Odiba? Sabi ko naman sayo kaya mo eh." Elmo said.

"Nanay, I want to jump din!" Eloise said.

"Wait a minute sweetie. Let's put your floaters first."

"Otey!" at tumakbo na ito palapit sa kanya.

Julie made her wear her yellow floaters at saka na siya tumakbo at pumwesto sa edge ng pool.
"Tatay! Catch me! Catch me!" she yelled.

"Okay princess. Wait lang. I'll bring Ethan there." sabi ni Elmo. Lumangoy na sila ni Ethan papunta sa
dulo ng pool at saka niya kinarga si Ethan para makaakyat. Then he backed up a fee feet away para
naman saluhin si Eloise.

"Catch me tatay!" sigaw ni Eloise. She jumped from the edge and Elmo caught her just in time.

"Wow! Ang galing ng princess namin ah!" Elmo said.

"Good job, sweetie!" Julie cheered her.

"Nanay, you're not going to swim?" Ethan asked.

"Later, honey." she smiled. Tumango naman si Ethan at saka na siya tumakbo papunta sa kiddie pool. Si
Eloise naman ay nagpabalik na sa edge at saka sumunod sa kakambal niya.

"Bakit di ka pa magswimming?" Elmo asked as he sat beside her.

"Aasikasuhin ko muna yung kambal. Alam mo naman malilikot yang mga yan." she told him. Niyakap
naman siya ni Elmo saka pinaghahalikan sa balikat.

"Aysus ang asawa ko talaga. Andyan naman sila yaya. Halika na." pagyaya nito.

"Moe, maya-maya promise." she replied.

"Sige na nga. Anyway. Si Eara?" he asked.

"Naynay!" as if on cue ay may narinig silang maliit na boses. Lumingon sila and saw their little one
habang karga ito ng yaya niya.

"Hi baby!" bati ni Julie nang makalapit sila sa kanila.

"Naynay!" the baby said.

"Hey there my little angel. Taytay's here!" sabi naman ni Elmo. Tumingin sa kanya ang bata at saka
nagkakawag at nagpapakarga. Kinuha siya ni Elmo sa yaya nito at saka hinalikan sa noo.

"Hindi naman po ba siya umiyak, yaya?" Julie asked.

"Umiyak po ma'am. Kasi paggising niya wala kayo ni sir sa kwarto." yaya said. Ngumiti naman si Julie
tsaka binaling ang tingin sa anak.

"You missed naynay and taytay, baby? Ha?" she cooed. Hinawakan naman ng baby nila ang pisngi niya.
"Kiss naynay na." she said. The baby pouted and Julie kissed her.

"Eh what about taytay?" Elmo asked. Humagikgik naman ang bata saka na hinalikan si Elmo. "Ang sweet
naman ng baby namin." he said.
"Earaaaaaa!!!" sigaw ng kambal. Tumakbo ang mga ito papunta sa mommy at daddy nila.

"Hello, Eara. Tara let's swim!" Eloise said.

"No muna Eloise. Look oh. She has diaper pa." Ethan said and pointed at Eara's diaper. "Nanay, Tatay,
can we play with Eara sa pool?" tanong nito.

"Later na big guy. She just woke up eh. You two eat your snacks first. Then mamaya, maliligo na kayo
with Eara. Okay?" Elmo said.

"Otey man!" the twins replied. Tumakbo na sila sa kiddie table nila and ate the snacks prepared for
them.

Pinanuod ng mag-asawa ang kambal habang nagmemeryenda ito. They were sitting on the couch beside
the pool at karga ni Elmo si Eara na abala naman sa paglalaro sa rattle niya.

"Ang laki na ng kambal no? Look at them. Parang dati natatakot pa tayo na buhatin sila, pero ngayon
naman, ang kukulit na tsaka di na natin matakasan." Julie said as she looked at her twins. Natawa si
Elmo at saka siya tinignan nito.

"Oo nga. And parang dati, dalawa lang sila. Ngayon meron na tayong Eara Justine na napakacute." sabi
niya tsaka pinanggigilan si Eara.

"Haha. Baby, maubos naman si Eara." biro ni Julie.

"Nakakagigil kasi baby oh. Siopao na siopao yung pisngi niya. Mana kay naynay!" he said saka pa tinaas si
Eara. Tawa lang naman nang tawa ang anak nila.

"Aba at nang-asar ka nanaman ha!" sabi ni Julie sabay hampas kay Elmo.

"Chubby cheeks ka naman baby ah. Kaya nga ang sarap mo panggigilan pag gabi eh. Sarap-sarap kaya
ikiss ng pisngi mo. Lambot lambot." sabi pa ni Elmo.

"Ewan ko sayo. Bahala ka diyan. Di ako magsswimming." she said. Tumayo na siya tsaka pinuntahan ang
kambal.

"Eara, si naynay mo talaga sumpungin." Elmo said to Eara. Tinignan lang naman siya niyo at saka siya
hinawakan sa pisngi.

"Taytay." sabi nito. Elmo smiled at her and kissed her bago ito tumayo para sundan si Julie.

*****

"After you eat, maligo na kayo ha? Then magbihis." Julie said to the twins.

"But nanay, I thought we're gonna swim with Eara pa?" Eloise asked.
"And nanay, you didn't swim pa." Ethan added.

"Tomorrow na lang ulit okay? Hapon na kasi baka magkasakit kayo." Julie replied.

"Otey man." sagot ng kambal.

"Tsaka we're gonna have dinner pa with your Tita Saab diba?" she said. Nagliwanag naman ang mukha
ng kambal.

"Yes nanay! She's here din pala in Singapore! We're going to see tita again!" masayang sabi ni Eloise.

"Nanay, make me pogi para tita will be happy to see me." Ethan beamed.

"You're always pogi naman, honey." Julie said.

"Syempre. Mana kay tatay yan eh. Diba?" singit ni Elmo.

"Yes tatay!" sabi naman ni Ethan. Nag-apir ang mag-ama at saka na nagpatuloy sa pagkain si Ethan.

"Confident talaga ng tatay niyo no?" Julie teased. Humagikgik naman ang kambal sa sinabi ng nanay nila.

"Aba. Kahit oozing with confidence ako, sure naman akong totoo sinasabi ko. Kaya nga ako pinakasalan
ni nanay eh. Diba EJs?" Elmo asked their kids. Tumango naman ang mga ito at nagtawanan.

"Naynay and taytay, lalab!" sigaw ni Eara. Tumawa ang mag-asawa at saka na sabay hinalikan ang anak
sa magkabilang pisngi.

"Us din!!" Ethan and Eloise said tsaka yumakap sa parents nila.

"Ang sweet naman ng babies namin ni tatay." Julie said.

"We love you po kasi." Ethan said. Tumango naman si Eloise at si Eara naman ay humahikgik ng tawa.

"Tatay and nanay loves you too." Elmo said. Ngumiti ang kambal at saka sila hinalikan sa mukha.

After nila magmeryenda ay bumalik na sila sa hotel room nila at saka na nagbanlaw at nag-ayos para sa
dinner nila kasama si Saab.

Saab went to Singapore for her business at dahil nga andun sila Elmo ay naisip niyang magdinner kasama
sila before she goes back to Manila the next day.

They went to this famous restaurant and saw Saab sitting at the corner of the place. Nang makita siya ng
tatlo ay nagtatakbo ang mga ito at niyakap siya.

"Titaaaaaa!" sigaw ng kambal.

"Hi, EJs!!" she greeted back. Hinalikan siya ng kambal sa magkabilang pisngi at saka siya niyakap ng
mahigpit.
"Nangnang!!" narinig niyang sigaw naman ni Eara. Lalo namang lumapad ang ngiti ni Saab when she saw
Eara walking. Huli niya kasing nakita ito ay gumagapang pa lang ang inaanak niya.

"Potato!" she said excitedly. "Nangnang missed you." sabi niya tsaka pinupog ng halik ang inaanak.

"Eara missed you too, Tita Saab!" Eloise said.

"I missed you, EJs. What did you do today?" she asked them.

"We went swimming at the hotel tita." Ethan said.

"And then yesterday we went to Universal Studios. And then we saw the Merlion. And then..." dagdag
naman ni Eloise.

"Oh. Hinay lang. Baka di na kayo maintindihan ni tita." Julie said.

"Hahaha. Bibo pa rin talaga mga pamangkin ko. Hi Jules. Namiss kita!" Saab told her as she gave her a
hug.

"I missed you too ate." Julie replied.

"Isabella!" Elmo greeted her.

"Moses!" Saab greeted back. Bumeso ito sa kapatid at saka na sila umupo.

They ordered a lot of food dahil nga sa tagal na hindi nila nakita ang isa't isa. Busy kasi si Saab sa
business niya. She goes in and out of the country dahil sa different branches na pinapatayo niya. And
also, busy ang mag-asawa sa kanya-kanya nilang trabaho and hindi nagmamatch ang schedule nila.
Nasakto lang talaga na summer vacation ng mga bata sa school kaya naisipan nila na dalhin ang mga ito
sa Singapore.

"EJs, what grade are you in?" Saab asked the twins.

"We're gonna be in grade 1 next school year tita!" Eloise answered.

"Really?! Wow!" she said. "What about Eara? Nag-aaral na ba siya Jules?" she asked.

"Well, 2 1/2 pa lang siya ate pero Moe and I are planning to enroll her sa day care sa June. Parang yung
kambal. They started going to school when they reached 3." Julie replied.

"Good to know." she said.

"Ikaw, Saab?" Elmo started.

"What about me?"

"Kailan kayo magpapakasal ni Jim?" he asked.

"Haha. Just so you know, he proposed to me last week. And target namin na next year magpakasal." she
said. She even showed them the engagement ring Jim gave her.

"Aww. I'm happy for you ate." Julie said.

"Thanks, Jules. Oh. Kontrata na to ha. Abay mga bata." sabi niya. Tumango naman ang mag-asawa.

*****

After dinner ay nagpaalam na si Saab sa kanila. Maaga pa kasi ang flight niya pabalik ng Pilipinas.

They went back to their hotel at saka na pinagready ang mga bata to go to bed.

"Oh kids, wash-up na then sleep na. Okay?" Julie said to the three.

"But nanay, we don't want to sleep pa! We're excited for tomorrow! We're going to Sentosa!!" Ethan
said.

"Ethan's right nanay. We can't wait for tomorrow!" dagdag naman ni Eloise.

"Sentosa! Sentosa! Aaaaaah!!!" tili ni Eara.

"But you have to sleep. Para you have energy tomorrow. Sige na. Listen to nanay na." Elmo told them.
Kinarga na niya si Eara at saka dinala sa kabilang kwarto ng suite nila. "Yaya, hilamusan mo na sila para
makatulog na sila."

"Okay po sir." sagot ng yaya nila. Binigay na niya si Eara dito at saka na siya lumipat sa kabilang kwarto.

"Tatay, let's play a game." bulong ni Ethan. Halata sa boses nito na excited siya.

"A game? But you have to sleep na big guy." he whispered back.

"We promise na we will sleep after this." pamimilit ni Eloise.

"Okay. As long as you'll sleep after." pagpayag ni Elmo. Tumango ang dalawang bata at pumalakpak pa.
"What are we gonna play?" he asked. Nagtinginan ang dalawa at saka siya binulungan ni Eloise. Tumawa
naman si Elmo at saka tumango.

"Please tatay?" Ethan pleaded.

"Okay. Pero wash-up first. Andun na si Eara kay yaya."

"Otey man!" at saka na tumakbo ang kambal. Nailing na lang si Elmo and went to their room's
bathroom. Naabutan niya si Julie na nagpapatuyo na ng buhok at nakasuot na ng night gown niya.

"Sexy naman talaga ng asawa ko. Parang walang 3 anak." he said as he hugged her from behind and
kissed her nape. "Bango mo naman baby." dagdag niya.
"Yung mga bata?" Julie asked.

"Nasa kwarto na nila. Pakiss naman ako sa baby ko." lambing ni Elmo. Humarap si Julie sa kanya and
gave him a chaste kiss on the lips. "Bitin! Isa pa." pangungulit niya.

"Ayoko. May bigote ka nanaman. Yuck!" asar ni Julie sa kanya. Elmo pouted and she pinched his lips.
"Hahaha. Shave ka muna ng bigote please?"

"Ayoko." kunyaring nagtatampong sabi ni Elmo.

"Ayaw mo?" she asked. Umiling naman si Elmo. "Ayaw mo talaga?"

"Ayaw."

"Edi walang kiss. Good night!" sabi ni Julie at akmang lalabas ng ng cr.

"Hephephep!" pigil ni Elmo sa kanya. "Ikaw na lang magshave sa bigote ko. Dali na baby. Dali na."

"Para kang bata, Elmo. Ano ba yan!"

"Bilis na kasi. Bahala ka. Mamimiss mo yung lips ko."

"As if." she said.

"Dali na baby. Alam ko naman kanina mo pa ko gusto ikiss. Kaya ikaw na magshave sa bigote ko."
pangungulit pa rin niya. Julie sighed at saka na kinuha ang shaving cream ni Elmo and applied it on his
moustache.

*****

Alam niyang nanlalandi nanaman si Elmo sa kanya. She knows him so well kaya naman sinasakyan na
lang niya. Gusto rin naman kasi niya.

She was about to shave off his moustache nang halikan siya sa ilong ni Elmo.

"What the?!" sabi niya dahil nalagyan siya ng cream sa mukha. "Elmo Magalona naligo na ko eh!"

"Hahaha. Baby, I didn't know na Rudolph's nose is white na pala." Elmo teased.

"Ah ganun ha?!" sabi niya tsaka nilagyan ng cream ang ilong ng asawa. "Hahahahahaha. Mukha ka na si
Santa Claus!"

"Ah gusto mo ng harot ha." banta ni Elmo saka pa kinuha ang bote ng cream.

"Elmo tigilan mo ko!" pigil niya pero inaalog na ni Elmo ang bote, ready to aim at her. "Aaaah!" tili niya.
Lumabas siya ng cr at saka sumandal sa pinto para hindi makalabas si Elmo. "Ayoko na, Elmo." she cried.
"Anong ayaw mo na? You started this baby. I'm just continuing it." he yelled back. Natulak ni Elmo
pabukas ang pinto and Julie ran to their kids bedroom.

"Nanay why do you have white stuff on your nose?" pagtataka ni Ethan.

"Andyan na ko, misis!!" Elmo yelled. Tumalon pa ito na parang ninja turtle and pointed the bottle at
Julie. "Andyan na ko!" banta niya.

"Elmo isa!"

"Dalawa!" pang-aasar niya pa. Tawa lang naman nang tawa ang mga anak nila habang pinapanuod sila.

"Elmo ayoko na sabi!" she said.

"Eh kaso gusto ko pa, baby. Pano yun?" he teased.

Hinabol niya si Julie sa kwarto ng mga bata hanggang sa kwarto nila. Julie hid under the blankets and
realized that it's the weakest hiding place ever. Inangat ni Elmo ang kabilang dulo ng kumot at saka na
siya sinugod.

"Gotcha!" he said. "Di ka na makakawala saken. Bwahahahahahahaha." sinimulan na niyang kilitiin ang
asawa.

"Hahahahahahahahaha! Stop it, Elmo!" she shrieked. "Di na ko makahinga!"

"Anong stop?! Kids! Nanay's down already. Attack!!" sigaw ni Elmo.

"What the--" hindi na natuloy ni Julie ang sinasabi dahil sinugod na siya ng tatlong bata. They were
kissing her and tickling her at the same time and she couldn't breathe dahil sa kakatawa. "Enough na
kids. Nanay can't... Breathe... Hahahahahaha." she laughed.

Tumigil na ang mga bata and they all tried catching their breaths.

"Akala niyo ha! Babawi ako!" biglang sigaw ni Julie tsaka na niya sinugod ang tatlong bata and tickled
them.

"Hahahahahahahahaha. Nanay no!" sabi ni Ethan.

"No nanay! Hahaha. Eloise can't breathe na!" tili naman ni Eloise.

"Naynay no! Naynay! Hahahahaha." hagikgik naman ni Eara.

"Eh paano naman si tatay?" sabi ni Elmo. Binaba niya ang videocam na hawak at saka sumali kay Julie sa
pagkiliti sa tatlong bata.

"Aaaaah!!! Hahahahahaha." tili ni Eloise.

"Ethan gives up! Nanay and tatay wins!" sigaw naman ni Ethan.
"Give up! Give up! Eara want no more tickle!" Eara said. Tumigil na sila Julie at Elmo at saka na
pinaghahalikan ang mga anak nila.

"Hahaha. Osige na. No more tickles." Julie said habang hinihingal pa din. "Kiss nanay goodnight na then
you three go to sleep. Okay?" sabi niya pa. Tumango na ang tatlo at saka na siya kiniss ng mga ito sa
pisngi.

"Good night nanay." the twins said.

"Night night, naynay." Eara said and even hugged her.

"Good night EJs." she said back.

"Paano si tatay?" pagtatampo kunyari ni Elmo.

"Hihi. Good night, tatay." sabi ni Eloise and ran to his open arms. Sumunod naman si Ethan habang
hawak sa kamay si Eara.

"Good night, tatay." Ethan said. "Ading, say good night to tatay." sabi pa nito sa bunsong kapatid.
Yumakap din si Eara kay Elmo at saka na ito hinalikan sa labi.

"Night night taytay."

"Good night, EJs. See you in the morning." Elmo told them. After saying their good nights ay nagpunta
na ang tatlong bata sa kabilang kwarto. Si Elmo naman ay humiga na sa tabi ni Julie. Yumakap agad si
Julie sa kanya and he hugged her back.

"Good night, mister." Julie said as she kissed him on his chest.

"Good night agad, misis? Di man lang ako..."

"Hay nako. Pinagod niyo ko ng mga bata. What do you expect? Tsaka ang landi mo ha. Tulog na tayo."
she said.

"Ang daya talaga ng misis ko. Bakit ganun? Pag sa mga bata madaming time. Pag kay mister walang
time?" pagtatampo ni Elmo. Natawa si Julie sa kanya tsaka siya pinupog ng halik sa mukha.

"Aysus ang asawa ko. More more pa sa drama." she said. "Baby kasi eh. Bukas na lang." lambing niya
rito.

"Bukas? Bakit bukas paaaaa?!" angal ni Elmo.

"Ay parang bata?"

"Hahahaha. Joke lang baby. Osige na nga. Nilalambing ka lang eh. Halika nga dito." Elmo made her lie on
his chest at saka na hinalikan ito sa noo. "I love you, baby ko."
"I love you too, baby." Julie replied.

*****

It's the first day of school. Excited ang tatlong bata na bumaba sa dining area.

"Good morning nanay and tatay!" bati nila.

"Good morning!" bati naman ng mag-asawa. The kids kissed their cheeks at saka na umupo sa pwesto
nila.

"You three look excited." puna ni Elmo. "Especially you, little one!" he said to Eara.

"Yes tatay! Kasi we're going to see our classmates na. Tapos we will have a new teacher. Tapos we will
have new friends." excited na kwento ni Eloise.

"Tapos tatay, we can play na sa big kids' playground!" sabi naman ni Ethan. Napangiti na lang sila ni
Julie.

"What about my baby Eara? Why are you so excited?" lambing ni Julie sa bunso niya.

"Eara will color, nanay!" excited na sabi nito. Natawa sila ni Elmo.

"Nanay, can we go to Eara's school before you bring us to our school?" tanong ni Ethan.

"Eara's class will start at 8 and yours will start at 7, honey." Julie said.

"Oh men. We won't be able to see baby bunso go to school." malungkot na sabi ni Ethan.

"It's okay big guy. You and Eloise can help her with her homeworks na lang." Elmo told them.

"Otey man!" Eloise said. "Cheer up na, Ethan. We can help Eara color her drawings." she added.

"Otey." Ethan said.

Tapos na silang kumain and they all prepared to go to school. Maya-maya pa ay may busina na silang
narinig.

"Nanay, the school bus is here na!" Eloise yelled.

"Okay. Kiss nanay and tatay na." sabi ni Julie. Humalik na ang dalawang bata sa kanila ni Elmo saka na
tumakbo papunta sa school bus nila.

Nang makaalis ang kambal umalis na rin sina Julie at Elmo. Sila ang maghahatid kay Eara sa school.

"Sunduin ko na lang kayo after ha? Tawagan mo lang ako. Sasaglit lang ako sa Taguig." Elmo said.

"Okay sige. Babantayan ko lang naman si Eara sa school eh." Julie replied.
Pagdating sa school ni Eara ay nagpaalam na rin agad si Elmo. Tawag kasi nang tawag ang client niya at
kinukulit na siya na magpunta sa site.

"Sige na. Tatawagan na lang kita later. Ingat." Julie said at saka na siya hinalikan sa labi. "Say bbye to
tatay na, Eara."

"Bbye tatay. Lalab!" sabi ni Eara saka na yumakap kay Elmo.

"Be good in school ha? Wag papasakitin ulo ni nanay." paalala ni Elmo. Tumango lang naman si Eara at
bumaba na sila ng kotse.

*****

Abala si Julie sa pagbabasa ng libro nang may tumawag sa pansin niya.

"Julie?" sabi nito. Inangat niya ang ulo niya and saw a familiar face.

"Lo?"

"Oh my gosh! Hi Julie! Naalala mo pa pala ako." she said sabay tumabi sa kanya sa bench.

"Oo naman. Uhm... What are you doing here?" Julie asked.

"It's my son's first day. Ikaw?" she asked.

"Ako din. First day ng baby ko."

"Yung kambal?" Lo asked.

"No. Yung bunso namin."

"Aww. So may bunso na pala kayo. Is it a girl or a boy?"

"Bouncing baby girl. Sinong teacher ng baby mo?" Julie asked.

"Si Teacher Ava."

"Parehas pala sila ni Eara." Julie said. "Anong name ng baby mo? Di man lang namin nabalitaan that you
got married na pala."

"Hahaha. My baby's name is Sebastian. Ang cute naman ng name ng baby mo. Eara. Parang princess."

"Hahaha. Alam mo naman. Prinsesa ng pamilya yun."

"I'm sure of that. Anyway, Jules. Sorry pala about dati ha? Nakakahiya sayo. You almost lost your babies
dahil sa akin." malungkot na sabi ni Lauren.
"Ano ka ba. Let's forget about it. Okay na yun." Julie assured her.

"Ang bait mo talaga. No wonder Elmo fell in love with you. And I'm sure he is still falling in love with you
everyday." ngumiti lang naman si Julie at tumango.

"Eh ikaw? Sinong napangasawa mo?"

"I met him in the States when I went there to take my MA."

"Ah. He must be a lucky guy to have you."

"No. I'm luckier. Sobrang ang bait niya and he spoils me na parang bata. Mahal na mahal niya kami ni
Basty."

"Halata naman. You're blooming eh."

"Haha. Thanks. Parang ikaw lang. You don't look like a mom with 3 kids. Parang dalaga ka pa din." she
said.

"Haha. Bola ka ha."

"It's true naman kasi." Lo laughed.

Nagkwentuhan pa sila habang naghihintay ng oras na matapos ang klase ng mga bata.

Julie's phone vibrated and she knows who the caller is.

"Excuse lang, Lo ha." she said. "Hello?"

"I'm on my way back na, baby. Tapos na ba si Eara?"

"No. Recess pa lang nila. Ingat ka ha? I'm with a friend naman kaya di mo kailangan magmadali."

"Alright. See you. Love you so much."

"Love you more." she ended the call and nakitang nakangiti si Lo sa kanya.

*****

"Ninang, can I have one more slice?" Ethan asked.

"Ethan, you've had too much cake na. Baka di ka na makakain ng dinner. Papagalitan ako ng nanay
niyo."

"It's not for me naman po eh. I want to give nanay chubong lang." he said.

"Ninang I want one din. I will give it to tatay." Eloise said.

"Osige na nga. Wait for me ha." Maqui said and she went to the counter to get the cake slices.

"Maq, I'm here." narinig niyang sabi ni Julie.

"Nanay!!" sigaw ng kambal.

"Hi, Jules." bati niya and kissed Julie on the cheek.

"Sorry ngayon lang kami ni Eara ha? Traffic sa EDSA eh."

"Ayos lang ano ka ba. Nagmeryenda na yung kambal. Akin na muna si Eara." she said. "Hi, mushroom!!"
Maqui called Eara.

"Hi, mommy tita!" bati naman ni Eara.

"Asan si Chace?" Julie asked.

"Nasa school pa. Susunduin naman siya ni daddy niya eh." Maqui said.

"Hi EJs!" bati ni Julie nang makalapit sa kambal.

"Hi, nanay! Look oh. We have chubong for you and tatay!" Eloise said showing her the cake slices.

"We didn't get anything for Eara kasi baka masira teeth niya pag kumain siya ng cake." Ethan explained.

"Wow naman. Overprotective si Kuya Ethan kay baby Eara ah." Maqui said.

"Of course ninang. I'm the kuya eh." Ethan said proudly.

"Hon?" sabi ng isang lalaki. Tumingin silang lahat sa gawi ng pinto and Maqui smiled.

"Hi, hon!" bati niya and kissed the guy.

"Mommy!!" sigaw ng isang batang lalaki.

"Hi, baby!" bati ni Maqui dito. "Your ninang ang cousins are here." she said after.

"Really?!" excited na tanong ng bata. Tumango si Maqui at saka na niya tinuro ang table nila Julie.

"Mommy ninang! EJs!!" sigaw nito.

"Chace!" Ethan and Eloise said.

"Hi, chubs!" bati naman ni Julie saka na kiniss si Chace sa pisngi. "Say hi to kuya Chace, Eara."

"Hi tuya!"

"Hello Eara!" Chace waved. "You want candy?" he asked and offered Eara a piece of candy.
"No, Chace. Ading's not allowed to eat sweets. She might lose her teeth!" Ethan told him.

"Oh. Okay! You wanna play?" tanong naman nito sa kambal. Tumango ang dalawa at saka na sila
nagpunta sa garden ng coffee shop ni Maqui.

"Hi, Jules."

"Hi, kuya. Musta?" tanong ni Julie.

"Ayos naman. Masaya." he replied.

"Naks naman talaga. Malamang. Eh si bestfriend ko asawa mo eh. Aarte ka pa ba kuya?"

"Hahaha. Subukan niya, bugbog siya saken." Maqui said.

"Grabe ka naman, hon. Ang hard mo saken."

"Hahaha. Aysus si Frankiko. Drama mo po." Maqui said. "Kiss na lang kita." she kissed Frank at saka pa
pinisil ang pisngi.

"Hahaha. Langgam everywhere!" Julie said.

"Hoy Julieta di kami nagreklamo nung kapanahunang landian niyo ni Elmokong ha?" Maqui said.

"Hahaha. Joke lang kasi." Julie said.

"Eh nasan na ba yung magaling kong kapatid?" tanong ni Frank.

"Papunta pa lang. May emergency kasi sa site eh. Pinapunta siya saglit." Julie replied.

"Ah okay." tumango si Frank tsaka na nilaro si Eara.

*****

"That's mine eh!" sigaw ni Eloise.

"No! This is mine!" Ethan yelled back.

"No! Mine mine mine!!" sigaw naman ni Eara.

"EJs ano yan?" Elmo asked. Nasa bahay sila nun and naglalaro ang mga bata nang mag-away ang mga
ito.

"Tatay, Ethan stole my chocolate." sumbong ni Eloise.

"No. Tatay si Eloise po she's lying. She ate hers na eh." sabi naman ni Ethan.
"No! Mine mine mine!" sigaw pa din ni Eara.

"Eara this is mine!" sigaw ni Ethan. Umiyak si Eara at saka nagtantrums.

"Sshhh. Stop crying na Eara. Ethan, give it to Eara na lang." Elmo said.

"No!" sigaw ni Ethan at saka umiyak. "This is mine!"

"Oh. What happened?" Julie asked na halatang kadarating pa lang galing trabaho.

"Baby, nag-aaway yung mga bata over a bar of chocolate." sumbong ni Elmo. Lumapit si Julie sa kanila
tsaka kinarga si Eara.

"Kuya Ethan, give it to Eara na lang please?" she pleaded.

"No!"

"Kuya Ethan, wag na matigas ang ulo. Give it to Eara na lang. Papalitan na lang ni nanay yan okay?"

"Lagi na lang si Eara. You don't love me na nanay! Si Eara na lang love niyo lagi ni tatay!" umiyak na lalo
si Ethan at si Eloise naman ay yumakap sa kanya.

"Ethan..." tawag ni Julie pero di siya pinansin ng anak. "Hay. Ethan, halika. Eloise, come to nanay na."

Lumapit ang kambal sa kanila pero di pa rin ito tumitingin sa kanila.

"EJs, diba you're the ate and kuya of ading?" Julie asked. Tumango naman sila. "Oh. What did nanay and
tatay told you?"

"Share your blessings." sabay na sabi nila.

"Oh. So dapat, share niyo na lang kay Eara yan. We have a lot of chocolates sa ref naman diba?" Julie
said.

"Pero nanay, this is the last Milky Way eh." Ethan said habang humihikbi.

"Kuya, we can always buy naman eh. Diba?" Elmo said.

"Kahit yung biggest Milky Way po?" tanong nito.

"Kahit yung biggest Milky Way pa. Basta wag madamot okay? We'll replace this naman eh. Diba?" Elmo
said.

"Opo." sagot ng kambal.

"Osige na. Bati na kayong tatlo." Julie told them.

"Sorry ading." sabi ng kambal kay Eara. Ngumiti naman si Eara sa kanila at saka kinuha ang chocolate
nila. "Sorry nanay. Sorry tatay."

"It's okay. It happens to siblings naman eh. Basta wag na uulit ha?" paalala ni Julie. Tumango ang tatlo sa
kanila. "Kiss nanay na." sabi niya. The kids gave them chicken kisses at saka na sila nagtawanan.

*****

Tuluy-tuloy ang pagtulo ng luha ni Julie sa bawat kwento ng mga anak nila. It's their 10th year wedding
anniversary at sinurprise sila ng mga bata by making a video with the help of their Ninang Maqui and
Ninong Sef.

"Nanay and Tatay are the best parents we could ever have. They still have that kilig in them. And minsan
we even tell them to go to their rooms kasi super nilalanggam na kami. Hahaha." Ethan said.
Nagtawanan ang mga bisita sa kanila.

"Pero even though they're OA na sa sweetness, it's cute pa din." Eloise added.

"And nanay and tatay never showed us that they have favoritism. We are treated equally at home." sabi
ni Eara.

"Thank you nanay and tatay. For being the best parents in the world!" sabay sabay na sabi ng tatlo.

Lalong naiyak si Julie sa kanila and Elmo caressed her back.

"Yihee! Kiss na yan!!" asar naman nila Derrick.

"Haha. Kiss! Kiss!" sigaw ng mga bisita. Julie and Elmo kissed each other at nagpalakpakan ang lahat.

"Thanks for the wonderful surprise EJs. Look at nanay oh. Pinaiyak niyo nanaman." sabi ni Elmo.
Hinampas siya ni Julie tsaka nagpunas ng luha.

"We won't be spending 10 years in this marriage if it weren't for you EJs. You made our relationship
stronger." Julie said. "Seeing you everytime we come home from work relieves our stress. Lalo na kapag
nakikita namin kayo as you help each other with the household chores and when you help your ading
with her homework. Having you 3 is the best gift we could ever have." she added.

"Nanay and tatay loves you EJs. And always remember na we got each other's backs." Elmo said.
Yumakap sa kanila ang tatlong anak nila and kissed them.

*****

Julie and Elmo may have gone through challenges but in the end, they still come back to each other. At
kahit anong mangyari, walang makakatibag sa pagsasama nila.

*****END*****
THANK YOU AND WE LOVE YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS!

♥ JuliElmo Team Confe ♥