#CAC_MARK

Napangiti ako pagkakita sa kaibigan ko na matagal ko ng hindi nakikita at nakakamusta.

"Lia!" I shouted. It seemed like she didn't hear me because she's still busy admiring her shop. Kanina ko pa siya pinagmamasdan. I then began walking towards her. Unti-unti naman siyang lumingon sa'kin

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Mark! Uy, andito ka pala. Kagulat ka naman," she greeted enthusiastically

"Surprise!" I said then we both hugged each other.

Kumalas siya sa yakap at tinignan ako mula ulo hanggang paa. Hindi pa rin maalis ang ngiti sa labi niya. I know she's happier to see me than I am. "Kamusta?"

"Tinawag kita kanina. Di mo narinig. Mabuti naman ako. Ikaw ba? Bigatin ka na talaga. Pastry chef na at businesswoman. Congratulations sa shop mo," I said proudly

She chortled. "Salamat. Ngayon ka nalang ulit bumisita ah."

I held the back of my neck. "Ah eh..sorry. Ikaw kasi laging busy e," I shyly said

"Wow ah! Ikaw kaya diyan yung busy sa ating magkakaibigan," she defended

Humarap ako sa shop niya at pinagmasdan ito. "Bakit ka pala nasa labas? Ganda ng shop mo ah. Ang dami ding customers," I commented everytime I see customers coming in and out of her shop

"Ah kasi may naginterview sa'kin kanina na dalawang college student about sa'kin at sa shop ko. Biruin mo, nakarating ako sa school nila," hindi makapaniwala niyang sabi. "Ang interesting at ang lalim ng mga tanong nila pero nasagot ko naman. It made me reflect and look back to where I started. Ang layo na pala ng narating ko."

My brows raised in surprise. "Wow! Talaga? Famous ka na pala. Ang bilis sumikat ng shop mo simula nung natayo."

She looked at me. "You know it wasn't an overnight success."

I smiled. "Yes but it's all worth it. Look where you are now. Started from the bottom now we're here!" I bragged while pointing at the shop. "I've witnessed it all. Proud ako na nakilala na kita simula pa lang bago ka pa naging successful same goes to our other friends as well."

She shook her head while hiding her smile. Even I, was still in awe by looking at her shop. Nakakamiss tumambay dito. It's been a while since I last visited. Mas gumanda ito. Sana ilibre niya ako ng kape at brownies.

"Hey. Do you want to go inside? Sagot ko na kape mo. Mukhang haggard at stress ka na e."

Lumiwanag ang mukha ko sa sinabi niya. Did she just read my mind? I held my chest in relief. "I thought you'd never ask. I would love to Lia!"

Dahil do'n ay hindi ko na napigilan ang excitement ko at ako pa ang naunang pumasok sa shop niya kaysa sa kanya na mismong owner nito. Some of the customers stopped and looked at me. I only smiled at them to brighten up their day.

"Baka namangha sila na may gwapong pumasok," I told Lia who's right beside me

"Ikaw lang kasi naka-formal attire diyan," she whispered

My brows furrowed then I looked at my outfit and case. "This is my usual uniform at work. I'm a lawyer, yes!" I raised my voice a little to inform the customers in case they're looking for one. They looked at me with a confused expression then went back to eating their meal as if nothing happened. I smiled awkwardly.

"Kulang nalang ipromote kita na lawyer dito e. Gusto mo pa-tarpolin ko mukha mo?" she jokingly said

My lips parted. I nodded and snapped my fingers. "That's a great idea Lia. For sure mas marami ka pang magiging customers niyan. I told you. I'm willing to be your endorser for your pastries para naman may side line din ako 'di ba? What do you think?" I smiled cutely and wiggled my eyebrows

She rolled her eyes yet still have that sweet smile on her face. "Umagang umaga ang hyper mo na agad. Wala ka bang tulog o nasobrahan ka na sa kape? Halika na nga."

She then walked passed me. I immediately followed her. She pointed at the empty table near the window. I sat there while she order some pastries for us at the counter.

"Lia! Yung ano ah-"

"Yes I know what you want."

I smiled and sat properly on my chair as I wait. After a while, she went to our table and placed the tray with our orders on top of it. She then sat on the chair in front of me. My mouth began to water just by looking at the slice of blueberry cheesecake, brownies, and a cup of Frappuccino.

"Thank you Lia. Mukhang masarap 'to ah," I commented and held my fork, excited to taste it. "Let's dig in."

Una kong tinikman iyong blueberry cheesecake. Napahawak ako sa bibig ko sa sarap. She laughed at my reaction. I nodded and gave her a thumbs up. I was speechless.

"Ang OA naman," aniya

"It's seriously good. You are no joke my friend. Mas lalong sumarap nung huling kain ko nito," I said as I took another bite

"Psh. Matagal lang simula nung huli mong kain niyan. Wala naman akong binago o dinagdag na ingredient."

I then took a sip of my frappuccino. "Really? Well that only means I miss your pastries."

"Pastries ko lang?"

I bit my lip, suppressing my smile. "Of course pati ikaw. Alam kong mas miss mo ko."

"Araw-araw ka ba namang bumibili dito tuwing papasok ka at exactly 8am in the morning," she said. "Same lagi order mo. One blue berry cheesecake, my original brownies, then coffee."

"I also ordered your new product. Yung wallnut cupcakes," I added

"Oh, right! I was surprised when you did knowing you don't like nuts that much."

"Inoorder ko naman lahat e. I mean, I've tried all your pastries. I wouldn't be at your wallnut of fame then," I said then pointed at the wall filled with names of regular customers of her shop including their comments and feedbacks of the product. "Kung may best selling products, meron ding best customers. I'm one of those. Nandun pa ba pangalan ko?"

She looked behind the wall then chuckled. "Don't worry. Andun pa naman but unfortunately, you lost your strike. Top five ka na ngayon. Sabrina replaced your spot."

My eyes widened in shock. Nasamid ako sa kinakain kong brownie. "What?! That can't be. I was only gone for a week or two and I suddenly got replaced? Pano 'yan, wala na akong libreng brownie next week," I sighed

"Ano ka ba. You still have a high rank and one of the top customers. Bago pa lang itong shop ko at sobra sobra na ang suporta mo. I can't thank you enough Mark," she sincerely said and that made me feel better

"You deserve it. You're the best baker in town. Soon, sisikat pa ang shop mo. I'm your number one supporter alongside your bestie Sabrina."

She chuckled. Bumalik na ako sa pag kain. Mauubos ko na agad ang blueberry cheesecake ko.

"Kamusta pala trabaho? Bakit bigla kang nawala? I mean, wala akong masyadong alam sa law pero naeenjoy ako lagi kapag nagkwekwento ka about sa work mo."

Napahinto ako sa tanong niya. I wasn't able to answer right away. She noticed my sudden silence. Malungkot akong ngumiti.

"Bakit? May problema ba?"

I slowly lifted my eyes on her. "I'm sorry for my sudden absence at kung hindi ako nagparamdam ng ilang linggo. I'm sorry kung naging cold ako sa'yo nung ilang araw nalang bago ang grand opening nitong shop mo. Do you still remember that?"

Napakurap-kurap siya. "Ahh, yun ba? Ayos lang yun. I was a bit drunk that day I think. Gabi din no'n," she chuckled softly. "Pero bakit ka nga ba gano'n? Naisip ko baka wala ka sa mood or may problema. I wasn't used to it."

"And I'm sorry kung na-late din ako at naabutan ko nalang yung reception. Sumabay kasi yung trabaho ko e."

She tapped my hand on the table. "It's fine Mark. I was glad that you still came despite your busy schedule. Naiintindihan ko naman. Nakabawi ka naman e.."

Palihim akong ngumiti. "Sabi ko nga.."

"And I know how hard your work is. Biruin mo, halos araw-araw ka atang may panibagong kaso."

I sighed and looked outside of the window. "Yeah but the recent one that I held was the hardest and most painful."

"Hmm? Care to share? I'm here to listen. Pansin ko na agad sa mukha mo ang hirap."

I shifted my gaze back at her. "Am I that transparent?"

She pouted. "Hmm, I guess? You're not good at hiding your emotions. Pag masaya ka, makikita agad iyon sa mukha mo at gano'n din kapag malungkot o galit ka."

I clicked my tongue. "Sabi ko nga ish-share ko rin sa'yo e."

She placed her elbow on top of the table then her chin on her palm. Ang buong atensiyon niya ay nasa akin. I looked at our surroundings. The workers were busy while the customers were chilling. Binalik ko rin ang atensiyon sa kanya.

"Hindi ka ba busy at handa ka makipagdaldalan sa'kin?" I jokingly said. "Mahaba-haba ang kwento ko. Next time nalang kaya kapag di ka busy-"

"I'm not. Besides, wala pa namang masyadong customers dahil maaga pa."

"You sure?"

She nodded and smiled cutely.

I took another bite of the brownie before speaking. "May hinandle kasi ako na kaso ng dalawang bata. They were around eighteen or nineteen years old. Two weeks na ang nakakalipas simula noong na-close yung kaso."

Her lips parted. "What? Sobrang bata naman kung...I mean, oo posible pero hindi ko akalain na may nahawakan ka na agad na gano'n knowing na baguhan ka pa lang din."

"Yes and they're the youngest that I handled. At first I thought the case was easy since they're only kids. Akala ko mababaw lang ang nagawa nila at hindi na aabot sa korte. I was wrong," I added. "Hindi na bago sa'kin yung kaso since I mastered criminal law. What just shocked me is the fact that they're just kids. Bakit nila magagawa ang gano'ng kalalang krimen? I refused to believe it at first."

Sumeryoso ang mukha niya. She nodded while listening to me attentively. I saw the eagerness and curiosity in her eyes to know the whole story.

"Isa pa, mahirap lang sila. They couldn't actually afford a lawyer to begin with. My friend called me and asked for help. He was the one who brought me to the kids and since I'm a public defense attorney, I accepted the case right away."

"Wait. Your friend? Ka-ano ano niya yung mga bata? Is he a family member? Who is he?"

"Ahh. Hindi," I smiled as I recall our last conversation. I didn't want to expose him to respect his privacy. "Let's just say that he's like a big brother to those kids given that he's just three years older than them. Mayaman din siya at naisipan niyang tumulong sa mahihirap."

"Ang dami mo rin kasing friends e, kahit anong edad o estado ng buhay pa sila."

I chuckled. "That's my nature. Always been a social butterfly."

"Anyway, back to the story."

I took another sip of my frappuccino. "Right. So my friend introduced me to them. He already gave some background of those kids to me but I still talked to them one-on-one to get to know them personally. I needed to gain their trust. Between me and my client, we must be honest to each other para mas mapanalo ang kaso."

"Yeah. Honesty talaga whether the client is guilty or not."

I smiled miserably as I recall our last conversation that took me back from my past. "Then this boy. When I talked to him, he somehow reminded me of my old self...a fragment of my past."

"Mark!"

Unti-unti kong minulat ang mata ko at tumama sa mukha ko ang puting ilaw galing sa kisame. My vision is blurry and all I could hear were inaudible sounds. I roamed my eyes on my surroundings. It looks like I'm in a hospital. Naramdaman ko na nakahiga ako sa isang malambot na kama. May nakatusok na karayom sa kamay ko. I couldn't move a muscle. All I know is that my whole body hurt. It's like I'm paralyzed.

"Mark? Mark! Naku, salamat sa Diyos at nagising ka na," boses ni lola

Tinignan ko siya sa tabi ko. Katabi niya naman si lolo. Humikbi siya at hinawakan ang kamay ko. I realized that she was crying. Dinamayan siya ni lolo. I opened my mouth to speak but for some reason, my voice was gone. I just felt a tear fell from the corner of my eye.

Anong nangyari? Bakit wala akong-

"Mark. Mahal na mahal ka namin ng papa mo. Kung ano man ang gusto mo maging paglaki mo in the future ay susuportahan ka namin," the voice of my mom echoed inside my head

"At sana hindi rin mawala ang masayahin at positibo mong ugali. Iyan ang isa sa mga nagustuhan namin sa'yo. Always choose to be kind than to be right. Sana ay lumaki ka ring humble, hardworking, at higit sa lahat, may takot sa Diyos," papa said

I looked at the both of them and smiled. "Yes po mama at papa. Di bale na pong mababa ang academic performance ko basta po maganda ang character ko," I jokingly replied

They laughed at my response then both hugged me tightly squishing me in between them.

My heart ached intensely. Tears suddenly fell from my eyes. Later on, everything came back to me. The loud crash of the car screeched painfully in my ears. I shut my eyes to stop the bleeding but it only spread in my heart like wildfire. Then there was silence. Slowly, I can hear my soft sobs and unsteady heartbeat. All of a sudden, the accident repeated again.

Bigla nalang akong nagising at napabangon sa kama. Hingal na hingal ako at pawis na pawis. Tumingin ako sa paligid. Asa kwarto ko lang pala ako. I held my chest and sighed in relief. My heart was still beating so fast. I inhaled deeply to calm myself down. Pinunasan ko rin ang pawis ko.

I looked at the deep scar on my arm that I got from the accident. I then looked at my bedside table where there's a picture of me as a child together with my parents. We were smiling at the photo but my smile was the brightest. Those were the happy days when they were still alive.

That accident will always be a trauma to me.

Bumangon na ako sa kama at dumiretso sa banyo para maligo. Pagkatapos ay nagbihis na rin ako ng uniform at bumaba na para kumain ng almusal. I smiled brightly upon seeing my lola and lolo eating at the table while watching the morning news.

"Goodmorning sa inyo!" masaya kong bati

"Oh Mark. Kumain ka na dito. Aga mo ngayon ah," sabi ni lola pagkakita sa'kin

Tumango ako at lumapit sa lamesa. I put my bag on one of the chairs then sat on the chair in front of her. Katabi niya naman si lolo.

"Lagi naman po akong maaga la."

"Dahil ba nanaginip ka nanaman ng-" huminto siya at hindi na tinuloy ang sasabihin

My lips parted. "Uh, opo."

There were some nights where I always dream of that accident and I would suddenly wake up at dawn then I wouldn't be able to sleep back because I was scared at the nightmares. Sa huli ay hindi nalang ako matutulog at hihintayin mag umaga hanggang sa pumasok na ako sa school.

Inabutan ako ni lola ng kanin at ulam. Bago ko iyon tanggapin ay nagsalita si lolo.

"Asan na yung kape ko?"

"Ay, oo nga pala. Nagpapainit palang ako ng tubig. Teka-"

"Ako na po," presinta ko at tumayo. I walked towards our kitchen and turned off the stove. Ako na ang nagtimpla sa kape ni lolo. After making his coffee, I returned to our table and placed it in front of him

Inangat niya ang paningin sa'kin. "Salamat apo. Mas masarap ka nga pala magtimpla ng kape kaysa sa lola mo," biro niya

Sumimangot si lola. "Sige magmula ngayon, hindi na kita ipagtitimpla."

I chuckled and sat back on my chair. "Ito naman si lola. Matampuhin. Konting lambing ka lang kay lolo e tiklop ka rin agad."

Tumingin si lolo kay lola at hindi niya ito pinansin.

"Kumain ka na nga lang diyan at baka ma-late ka pa."

Kagaya ng sinabi niya ay nagsimula na rin akong kumain. I also watched the news with them.

"Kinse anyos na binata, patay matapos aksidenteng matamaan ng baril ng pulis. Ayon sa reports ay di umano lasing daw ito at hindi namalayang kalabitin ang gantsilyo nito. Kasalukuyan ng nahuli ang pulis at sinampahan ito ng kaso."

I shook my head in disbelief upon hearing the tragic news. A cctv footage flashed on the screen and I couldn't bare to watch it. Bumuntong hininga ako. Kumirot ang puso ko sa sinapit ng binata na halos ka-edad ko lang.

"Naku, kawawang bata," lola said with sympathy. Bakas ang lungkot sa mukha niya. She then looked at me. "Kaya ikaw apo. Mag-iingat ka lagi ah. Umuwi ka agad pagkatapos ng klase o di kaya magpaalam ka lagi sa'min tuwing may pupuntahan ka. Delikado na ngayon. Kita mo 'yan? Mas bata lang sa'yo 'yan ng isang taon pero ganyan na ang sinapit. Lagi kang magdadasal sa Diyos na protektahan ka," bilin niya

"Opo la. Lagi naman po akong nag-iingat." Binalik ko ang atensiyon sa tv. "Kawawa nga po ano kasi paano po yung mahihirap na hindi afford kumuha ng abogado? Kasi yung iba ay hindi nabibigyan ng hustisya ang pagkamatay. Sinong magtatanggol sa kanila?"

"Balak mo bang maging abogado apo?" asked lolo

Yumuko ako at marahang tumawa. "Naku lo, malabo yun. Hindi ko kakayanin. Isa pa ay hindi pa ako sigurado sa kukunin kong kurso."

"Baka mag pulis ka niyan."

Napatingin ako sa kanya. Maski si lola ay nagulat sa sinabi ni lolo. "Maslalong hindi po lolo."

"Hmm, bakit hindi mo subukan ang abogasya? Ramdam namin ng lola mo na may matindi kang paguunawa sa mahihirap."

My lips parted. "Po? Uhm...pag-iisipan ko po."

Lola smiled sweetly. "Basta susuportahan ka namin. Ipagdadasal ko na makapasa ka sa bar exam! May future attorney na pala tayo dito."

I scoffed. "La naman. Sabi nga, hwag magbilang ng manok hangga't hindi pa napipisa ang itlog."

Palihim na ngumiti si lolo.

"Basta sa susunod na linggo pagsimba natin ay iyan ang prayers natin," sabi ni lola

"Akala nga namin noon, baka gusto mo mag sakristan o pari Mark?" biro ni lolo

"Lolo naman. Hindi po ako gano'n ka banal."

"Galing ba naman sa Bibliya ang pangalan mo."

"O tama na daldal. Naku apo, malalate ka na. Bilisan mo na diyan," lola reminded so I quickly finished my breakfast and cleaned up the dishes. Nagpaalam na rin ako sa kanila at pumunta na ng school.

***

"Goodmorning!" I greeted every time I passed by some students and teachers in the hallway. They all greeted back with a smile on their faces. Lagi ko silang binabati para naman maganda agad ang araw nila. This may be simple greeting but I know it can brighten up someone's day maliban nalang siguro kung hindi sila morning person kagaya ni Talliah

I smiled when I saw her walking like a zombie in the hallway. Nilapitan ko siya at binati din.

"Hi!"

She startled then looked at me. Her eyes couldn't hide how sleep deprived she was. May konting skin breakouts din siya undestandable knowing she has sensitive skin. Kahit gano'n ay maganda pa rin.

"Morning," she simply replied then yawned

"Mukhang antok ka pa. Want some candy?" I offered then gave her different kinds of mint candies from my pocket. I noticed she was holding a cup of cold brew coffee

A small smile formed on her lips when she received it. She ate it right away. "Thank you. Ikaw talaga supplier ng mga candies."

"Kahit na lagi kang wala sa mood tuwing umaga at least hindi ka nalalate. You still managed to brad your hair," I chuckled and wiggled the tip of her braid

"Nagmadali nga ako e. Kala ko late ako. Advance lang pala yung relos ko," she explained. "Ikaw, why are you always an early bird?"

I stood up straight and fixed my collar. "Syempre. Good student ako e. Inaaim ko na yung perfect attendance award ko pagdating ng graduation tsaka Loyalty award na rin," I proudly said

Her brow shot up. "Talaga lang ah?" she said sarcastically then walked passed me. I followed her to the lockers since I also have some things to get there. Hindi nalalayo ang pagitan ng locker namin.

"Meron ka rin nun e," I said but she ignored me. She was busy putting books in her bag. I cleared my throat. "Nga pala. Congratulations pa rin kahit na hindi ka nanalo ng Student Council. You did your best. We all know that. Maganda naman na naexperience mo rin."

She sighed. "Thank you. Oo nga. Magandang experience nga siya. I wasn't expecting anything to be honest. Kung ano man yung resulta, tatanggapin ko. Thank you for you and the rest of our friends for cheering me up." Her smile then returned

I patted her head. She avoided it because I might ruin her pretty braid. I only laughed.

"Do you remember nung nag career orientation din tayo? Are you sure about taking med?"

She looked at me but it took a while before she gave me an answer. "Hmm, you already asked me that."

"I forgot your answer. Perhaps you changed your mind ba?"

She smiled bitterly. "I don't know. Wala akong maisip nun e, kaya doctor nalang. Majority of the students chose that too."

"True. Akala ko nasa langit na ako kasi puro sila naka-puti. I thought I was the only one wearing black."

"Yeah and I thought you're a businessman or a bodyguard," she jokingly said. "But then I saw thick law books stacked under your chair that day."

I held the back of my neck and smiled awkwardly. "Mas nagmukha ba akong bodyguard? Hindi ba bagay sa'kin maging abogado?"

Her brows slightly furrowed. "Hmm, hindi naman. Ewan ko. Hindi ko ma-imagine. Hindi ko akalain na iyon pala ang gusto mo. How about me? Bagay ba sa'kin maging doctor?"

"Oo. Bagay sa'yo. That's why I'm asking you if it's your first choice at kung san mo rin balak mag college."

She scratched her head and clicked her tongue. "Basta hindi ko pa alam. Don't pressure me. I don't even think that I'll survive med school. Buti sana kung kasing talino ako ni Ate Fey."

My lips parted when she mentioned her. Hindi agad ako nakasagot. I already erased from my memories that particluar incident I had with her years ago but I never forget the lesson I learned from it and what Kuya Keith told me too. It wasn't easy for me to move on from it.

Tipid akong ngumiti. "Eh, you don't necessarily have to be smart as her. We, as average people can make it too. Ako rin hindi ko alam kung masusurvive ko ang law school."

She closed her locker and smiled at me. "I'm sure you will. Masipag ka naman mag-aral."

"Then you'll survive med school too!" I said. "Kung balak yun itake mo, maganda sa UP or UST pero sa UP ka nalang kasi doon balak ko para parehas tayo ng school. Sabay tayong mag entrance exam."

She chuckled. "We'll see about that."

But I felt downhearted when she didn't pass the exam. All of our friends did expect for her. Maybe it wasn't for her. Sucks because I thought we'll be schoolmates kahit magkaibang course. The bright side is, I'm glad she's doing well in her school and above all, she finally found her passion.

As for me, I'm already regretting my life decisions and one of it is entering law school.

"Mr. Alonzo."

Napalunok ako at unti-unting tumayo noong tinawag ako ng prof ko. Kanina pa malakas ang tibok ng puso ko. My palms are sweating too. I took a deep breath to calm myself down. Oral recitation ngayon. Hindi pwedeng hindi ako makasagot.

She cleared her throat and threw me the first question. "How long may a corporation exist."

"A corporation will have perpetual existence and is now allowed to exist beyond the 50-year term allowed in the old Code, pursuant to Section 11 of the RCC, unless its articles of incorporation provide otherwise," I answered confidently

"And how much capital is required to form a corporation?"

My body tensed.May follow up question pa pala. Akala ko tapos na ko. Least favorite ko pa naman ang corporate law alongside remedial law. Tamad ako aralin iyon. Nabobo ako bigla.

My classmates looked at me when I turned silent. That made me more nervous. I avoided their gaze and focused on the question. Nabasa ko yun e. Nasa section 11 bandang kanan sa may dulo.

"A corporation will have perpetual existence-"

"Come again," my prof called

I cleared my throat and looked at her. ""A corporation will have perpetual existence and is now allowed to exist beyond the 50-year term allowed in the old Code," I paused as I slowly recall the answer. "P-pursuant to Section 11 of the RCC, unless its a-articles of incorporation p-provide otherwise." Ngumiti ako pagkatapos para hindi niya mahalata ang kaba ko

Her expression remained blank. Nakakatakot siya kung tumingin. "Is that all?"

I blinked a couple of times. Nagkatitigan kami ng ilang segundo. There was a short awkward silence between us. Kung highschool self ko ang nandito ngayon malamang natawa na ako. I tend to laugh during serious situations maybe that's why some think that I was not taking law seriously.

"Yes po?"

She sighed. "Sit down."

Nakahinga ako ng maluwag dahil don. Pagkaupo ko ay napahawak ako sa dibdib ko. Unti-unti ng kumalma ang puso ko. I looked at my classmate who's now being asked by a different question which is about criminal law. She was able to answer it short, precise, and confidently unlike me. 

If I were given the same question then I'll answer it more confidently too. Yung isa ko namang kaklase na sunod na tinawag ay hindi nakasagot. He remained standing at the end of the class.

After class ay dumiretso ako sa canteen dahil break time namin.

"Nakasagot ka ngayon ah. Nice job pre," sabi sa'kin ni Miguel

I smiled. "Oo nga e. Nakabawi ako ngayon kasi last recit, hindi ako nakasagot."

"Namutla ka nga ng konti nung about corporate law ang tanong. Buti hindi yun sa'kin napunta dahil hindi ako nakapag-aral don," he said. "The best part was when you smiled at the end. Para kang natatae."

"Grabe ka naman. Prepared naman ako no'n," I replied. "But at the same time, I'm not sure if I did enough or said the exact words. Did I miss something?"

He tapped my shoulder. "Ayos lang 'yan basta nakasagot."

Napakamot ako sa ulo ko. "Pakiramdam ko ang baba ng binigay sa'kin." Umiling ako at bumili na ng pagkain ko. After I bought my food, I looked for a vacant seat. I saw my friends called me. I was about to go to them but then I saw a familiar man sitting on the table next to it. Napangiti ako pagkakita sa kanya. I began to walk towards his table and my friends were confused

"Kuya Keith," I greeted him

He was reading a book then lifted his eyes on me. Nginitian ko siya.

"Hi. May kasama ka? Can I join you?"

"Oh, sure Mark. I'm just waiting for Trisha."

"Great! Thank you." I placed my food on the table and sat in front of him. "Sorry, nastorbo ba kita?"

He shook his head. "Why here tho? It seems like you're friends are calling you," he asked then looked behind the table where my friends at

"Ahh. Gusto lang kita samahan kasi it's been a while since I last saw you. I mean, I see you around the campus and in the library but rarely here sa canteen. Do you even eat?"

He gave me a small smile. "Of course. I'm just always with Trisha. I'm waiting for her para sabay kaming kumain. Besides, malapit na rin kasi bar exams kaya lagi akong nagrereview. You can find me at the library."

"But you're reading a book," I pointed out. "What book is that?"

He showed me the cover page. "Oh, right. I'm reading Atomic Habits by James Clear. I try to atleast read one book every month aside from law books. I need to cleanse my brain too."

I only nodded and smiled since I didn't know the book he was reading. Hindi naman ako masyadong mahilig magbasa.

"Goodluck pala sa bar exam. Sigurado akong mapapasa mo yun," I said to boost his confidence

Ngumiti siya pabalik. "Thank you. How's law school so far?"

"Mahirap pero nakasagot ako kaninang recit! Ang sarap sa pakiramdam," I said. "Kaya ko nandito para na rin humingi ng tips sa bar exam. I know I still have a long way to go but I want to be prepared as early as possible."

He chuckled. "Ang advance mo naman mag-isip e, hindi pa nga ako nagtatake ng bar."

"But you're a genius Kuya. I learned a lot from you. Ikaw kaya role model ko," I said proudly

Napailing siya at patagong ngumiti.

"I'm serious. I really look up to you. I'm proud to say that you're my friend and a brother in one. You're one of a kind kaya nga maraming nagkakagusto sa'yo e, pati lalaki."

"Mark. Seriously. What?"

I chortled. "I'm just comfortable with my sexuality. I hope you didn't get the wrong idea."

He moved closer to the table. "Tips and advice huh? I'm not the best person for that but-"

"You are the best!"

His lips parted. Mukhang napalakas ang boses ko dahil ang ilan ay napatingin sa'kin. I smiled awkwardly and took a sip from my beverage.

"Kai!"

Napalingon ako noong may tumawag sa kanya. I saw his bestfriend Trisha walking at our table. Bitbit niya ang kulay pink na portfolio. She smiled at Kuya Keith but then her smile faded when she saw me.

"Hello?"

"Hi Trisha," I greeted

"He's Mark. You know him right? From highschool?" asked Keith while looking at her

She slowly nodded. "Oh right. Hi Mark!" she greeted then sat beside Keith. "Why is he here tho?"

"Makiki-third wheel."

Keith chortled. "He wants to eat with us."

Napakurap-kurap siya.

"Mukhang ayaw mo ata e. Sige, alis nalang ako. Abala pala ako sa date niyo." I was about to stand up but then she stopped me

"Huy! I don't mind 'no. And we're not dating. Pabebe mo naman."

Umupo ulit ako. "Joke lang. Ay, akala ko oo e. Hindi pa ba sa lagay na 'yan? I hope you can adopt me," biro ko

Nagkatinginan lang silang dalawa. Their eyes tell how much they love each other. Maybe they're just not ready yet. Bigyan ko kaya ng dating advice si Kuya Keith in exchange na turuan niya ako sa bar exam? But then I realized he doesn't need it because girls are the one's chasing him. Mukhang ako pa ang may kailangan ng tips in all aspects.

"What do you want Tris? I'll buy you lunch," Keith said. His voice and demeanor automatically turns soft everytime he's with her. Trisha, on the other hand, always have that jolly and bubbly personality like I do. I know she has a crush on him but I don't know if Kuya Keith knows.

When Trisha gave him her order, Keith excused himself and went to the line to order their food. Naiwan kaming dalawa.

"Bagay kayo," saad ko

"Thank you!" she smiled sweetly, her eyes turned small

"Ha? Sinabi ko bang kayo? Sabi ko itong bagel at creamcheese. Perfect combination," I jokingly said and took a huge bite of it

She frowned. "I hope you choke on that."

Natawa ako sa reaction niya kaya naman nasamid ako. She laughed at me and I immediately drank my banana and milk smoothie. I then made a silly face. She rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue at me. Ilang sandali ay bumalik na si Kuya Keith. Tumahimik na kaming dalawa. Trisha smiled at him like nothing happened.

"Thank you," she said and shortly began to eat. He ordered sisig with veggies on the side for her while he, on the other hand, has a packed lunch. Puro greens.

"Healthy naman ng lifestyle mo pre. Diet ka ba?"

His lips curved into a smile. "No. I just simply into healthy meals. May protein naman. Breast chicken. I tend to have breakouts when I eat oily foods. I get upset stomach as well."

"Oo maarte tiyan niyan e," Trisha butt in. "And when we were kids, lagi niyang baon jollibee o kaya puro prito. I always share my baon with him. Healthy living na siya ngayon. He works out almost everyday that's why he has a nice body."

I smirked. "Nakita mo na?"

"Oo bakit?!"

Keith looked away. His face turned red, embarrassed.

"Health conscious naman pala-" I paused when my stomach suddenly ached. Napahawak ako doon at napangiwi sa sakit

"Are you okay Mark?" Kuya Keith asked worriedly

I gulped. "Ah e, sumakit bigla tiyan ko."

"Ang dami mo kasing kinain," said Trisha

Kumunot ang noo ni Keith. "What did you eat?"

I looked at the leftover cream cheese on my plate then smiled in embarrassment. He looked at my empty plate and drink too.

"This is a bad food combination. You shouldn't have eaten all these together. Creamcheese, banana with milk smoothie? Banana is sour while milk is sweet. This confuses our digestive system and it can cause indigestion," he said seriously like he's some sort of doctor

My lips parted. Bigla rin akong nakaramdam ng pagkahilo at konting pawis. "Gano'n ba?"

He sighed. "You ate too much." He then took something out of his pocket. "Mag CR ka na do'n and if you're stomach still hurt, drink this."

I looked at the medicine he gave me. He also gave me the water bottle that he bought earlier. Tumingin ako sa kanya at ngumiti. "Thank you Kuya. Pwede ka rin pala maging doctor. May baon ka palang mga gamot."

"Of course. I always pack my vitamins and medicines in case of emergency."

"You don't need to go to clinic just go to Keith instead," Trisha teased. Keith smiled shyly.

Ilang sandali ay nagpaalam na rin ako sa kanila at mabilis na dumiretso sa banyo. How unlucky of me. I will never eat those food again. Hindi ko alam baka expired pa pala yung cream cheese. My sweet tooth craving only led me to indigestion.

***

Pagkauwi sa bahay ay nakita ko si lola na nagdidilig ng halaman namin sa labas.

"La!"

Napalingon siya sa'kin. "Oh, apo. Nakauwi ka na pala."

Ngumiti ako at nagmano sa kanya. "Kamusta po? Mas gumanda lalo ang bahay natin dahil sa mga halaman ah. The best talaga kayo la mag-alaga," komento ko habang isa isang tinitignan ang halaman namin na ang iba ay namumulaklak na

"Syempre sino pa ba ang magaalaga sa kanila," she replied. "Kumain ka na roon ng merienda. Matatapos na rin ako dito."

I nodded and went inside of the house. I saw lolo on the living room watching tv. Nilapitan ko siya at nagmano.

"Kamusta po lo?" I asked then I noticed that his hand were shaking a bit. Hinawakan ko iyon at tinignan siyang mabuti. "Lo. May masakit ba sa inyo?"

He wasn't able to speak. He then pointed at his medicines asking me to get it for it. Agad ko iyong kinuha at pumunta rin ng kusina para kumuha ng isang baso ng tubig. When I got back, I helped him drink his medicine.

"Lo. Ayos lang po kayo?" I asked worriedly

He slowly nodded but deep down I knew he's getting weaker lalo't na may sakit siya sa puso.

"Lo. Sabi naman po namin sa inyo na dalhin ka na namin sa ospital. Hindi po sapat na puro gamot lang. Kailangan niyo po ng daily check-up."

"Ayaw ko nga sabi.." he said, almost like a whisper

I sighed and sat beside him. Kaya ayaw ni lolo dahil takot siya sa ospital.

"Pero lolo, baka lumala ang kondisyon niyo-"

"Kung oras ko na, oras ko na. Ayoko na rin namang dumagdag pa ako sa gastos lalo't na malaki laki na rin ang nagastos niyo sa'kin."

"H'wag niyo naman po sabihin 'yan na parang nagpapaalam kayo lo. Konting tiis nalang ay makakagraduate na rin ako. Mag bar exam pa ako. Maabutan niyo naman po ako na abogado na 'di ba?"

Unti-unti siyang tumingin sa'kin. Bakas ang lungkot sa mata niya. "Oo naman. Nagpapalakas naman ako ngayon. Kailan ka nga ba magiging abogado?"

I smiled weakly. "Malapit na po lolo. Matutulungan ko na rin kayo. Sabi mo sa'kin noon, makakaabot ka ng hanggang one hundred years old."

He sighed and held my hand. "Basta mas hinahahangad ko na balang araw ay maging isa kang tanyag na abogado. Ipapaframe pa namin ng lola mo ang litrato mo dito."

Pinigilan ko ang pagtulo ng luha ko. Inaaamin ko na natatakot ako na baka iwan niya nalang kami. I promised myself that they'll see me become a lawyer. Eventhough my parents never will but I hope my grandparents do. I don't want to lose a love one again. Iyon lagi ang pinagdadasal ko tuwing simba namin.

"Mark," I heard lola's voice

"Wait lang la. Hindi pa ako tapos magdasal," I replied while my eyes still closed. Hindi ko alam kung ilang minuto na ba akong nakaluhod. All I know is I'm eagerly praying while the two of them were already done and listening to the sermon

Lord. Sana makapasa po ako sa bar exam at makapasok sa magandang law firm. Sana maabutan pa ako ni lola at lolo na maging abogado. Protektahan niyo sana kami. Sana po gumaling na rin si lolo. Sana hindi kami magkasakit. Pinagdadasal ko rin yung mga kaibigan ko na maging successful sila sa career na pinili nila.

"Mark. Tama na 'yan. Nagsasalita na si Father."

"In Jesus name, Amen," I said and quickly went back to my seat. I held my knees when it suddenly hurt. Masyado siguro akong matagal na nakaluhod at sumakit na o baka tumatanda na ako.

"Ano, ayos ka lang ba?" lola asked worriedly

I forced a smile. "Opo." I massaged my knees to ease the pain. Binalik ko ang paningin sa harao at nakinig na sa sermon

As usual, I got sleepy since I stayed up late last night to review for the upcoming bar exam. I only have a week left. Habang papalapit ay maslalo akong kinakabahan. I couldn't understand what Father was saying cause my mind was filled with law terms and questions.

I remembered what Kuya Keith told me that gave me motivation and strength for the bar exam. It was exactly what I needed.

He chuckled and patted my back. "I know it's extremely difficult to survive law school but I know you can do it. Trust me, it will be worth it. All your sacrifices, sleepless nights, and hardwork. I'd be the first one to congratulate you kapag nakapasa ka at maslalo kapag naging lawyer ka na."

"Paano pag hindi?"

"I'd beat your ass," he said sternly and my eyes widened in shock but then his smile returned. "I'm joking. I know you can pass. Ginusto mo ito e, panindigan mo. You want to be a lawyer right? Or a criminal?"

"Kung hindi pagpapalain..."

Mahina niya akong binatukan. I smiled sheepishly and held the back of my neck. "Joke lang syempre oo!"

"Then work hard. Be confident. Trust yourself. Maniwala ka na makakapasa ka. You're almost there. I'm rooting for you. I'll wait until you become a successful lawyer, okay?"

My lips parted. Dahi do'n ay mas lalong lumakas ang loob ko. I flashed a smile and nodded. "I somehow feel pressured yet motivated at the same time. Thanks Kuya Keith."

"You won't grow if you don't feel the pressure," he said. "Pressure is good."

Well, easy for him since he works well under pressure.

"I'll do my best!" I cheered enthusiastically

Ilang sandali ay nagpaalam na rin siya sa'kin at dumiretso sa susunod niyang klase.

"Goodluck Mark. I'm rooting for you."

"You finally remembered! Yes!" I smiled and punched my fist in the air. Sinundan ko siya ng tingin. "Keith! Patulong pa rin. PM is the key!" pahabol ko

At first I thought he forgot about me when he graduated. I miss seeing him in school but to my surprise, he returned to pursue med. Masaya ako na naalala niya pa rin ako at walang nagbago sa pakikitungo niya sa'kin kahit ilang taon ang nakalipas. He became a better person. He's still my role model. 

Sayang. I missed the chance to ask him to hang out. Siguro wala rin siyang time dahil bumalik siya sa pag-aaral. I hope I can catch up with him soon.

***

BAR EXAM RESULTS

63. Alonzo, Mark Gabriel V.

Hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na nakapasa ako. Aside from God, my grandparents, and my friends that supported me. I also owe this to Kuya Keith.

"Congratulations apo! Sa wakas ay lisensiyadong abogado ka na rin. Proud na proud kami sa'yo ng lolo mo," lola happily said, a bit teary-eyed

"Congratulations Mark. Sa'kin ka rin talaga nagmana ng sipag at talino mo," sabi naman ni lolo

Tumingin ako sa gate ng bahay namin kung saan may malaking tarpolin ng mukha ko at katabi no'n ay pangalan ko at school. Binasa ko rin ang nakasulat.

CONGRATULATIONS ATTY. MARK GABRIEL V. ALONZO FOR PASSING THE BAR EXAM. WE'RE PROUD OF YOU!

I covered my mouth in surprise. They both laughed at my reaction. "Nagustuhan mo ba ang pinagawa naming tarpolin sa'yo?"

Lumapit ako roon para matignan ng maigi. "Ang gwapo ko naman dito la. Hindi na po ako nagulat na nagpagawa kayo nito."

"Aba syempre 'no. Proud kami na ipagmalaki ka sa mga kapit bahay natin. Marami na nga sila na nagtatanong tungkol sa'yo e."

Ngumiti ako. I returned to them and hugged them both. "Thank you so much lola and lolo. Hindi ako makakarating dito kundi dahil sa inyo. I love you so much!"

"I'm sure na proud na proud din sa'yo ang mama at papa mo. Sana lang ay nandito sila para icelebrate ang espesyal na araw na ito."

I looked up at the sky. I know my parents are guiding me from above. This is all for you too mama and papa. I hope I made you proud.

"Tara na at pumasok sa loob. Naghanda ako para sa'yo. Nagluto ako ng mga paborito mong pagkain at nag-order na rin," yaya ni lola at sabay na nga kaming tatlo na pumasok sa bahay

We prayed first then began to eat. My phone was bombarded with tons of notifications from my friends. I checked it and my heart warmed when I saw their greetings and short messages.

Lia:

Congratulations for passing the bar exam Mark! I told you you can do it! Wait mo pinadala kong cake para sa'yo. Yiee. Kilig 'yan! Let's celebrate soon. xoxo.

Kurt:

Congratulations pre! Certified abogago ka na, este, abogado pala :D

Terrence:

Number 63 sa balota goes to Mark Alonzo! Congratulations pre. Hindi lang sa raffle ka swerte kundi sa exam din! Jk. Libre mo kami ah!

Trisha:

Congratulations Marky! Akalain mo yun? Lawyer ka na. Parang kailan lang akala ko naligaw ka lang sa UP haha. See you sa court Attorney! ;)

Sabrina:

Hi Mark! I saw your post. Wow! Congrats for passing the bar! You're finally a lawyer now. Deserve na deserve! Deserve mo rin ng dessert! :D

Ian:

Hey bro! What's up? Congratulations on passing the bar exam. Let's drink soon! Sagot ko na :)

Hindi maalis ang ngiti sa labi ko habang binabasa isa isa ang mga messages nila. There were too many. I couldn't read and reply to them all in one go. Ang dami ding nagreact at nagcomment sa post ko na ibang kaibigan at relatives ko even some of my teachers in highschool and college.

But then a new message popped up which made my heart stopped.

Kuya Keith:

Hey Mark! Congratulations on passing the Bar exam! I knew you'd make it. You did it man. You're officially a lawyer. I'm so proud of you. I can't wait to see you in court. Let's celebrate soon when you're free. My treat. :D

Ito talaga ang pinakahinihintay ko. Ang message ni Kuya Keith. It was sooner than I expected. He's the first person I replied to out of all the messages I received. 

Ako:

Thank you Kuya! I'm looking forward to it! :D

Pinatay ko na muna ang phone ko at bumalik na sa pag kain.The next day, I received the cake that Talliah baked for me. It was a blueberry cheesecake and there's a message written in the center.

Congratulations Atty. Mark Gabriel V. Alonzo!

From: Lia

"Oh, kanino galing 'yan apo?" lola asked

"Kay Talliah po la. Binake po niya," I said as I slice the cake for the three of us

"Ahh kay Lia ulit? Binili mo or bigay niya?"

"Bigay po. Gift niya sa'kin noong nakapasa ako sa bar. Malakas ako dun e," I jokingly said and gave her a slice of the cake. Kumuha din ako ng akin at sabay naming tinikman

"Ang sarap talaga magbake ni Lia. Hindi nakakaumay," she commented

I nodded in agreement. The creamcheese was soft and instantly melts in my mouth. It blends perfectly with the graham and blueberries. Not too sweet either. The flavor was balanced. "Babalik balikan talaga la."

"Kamusta pala yung business niya? Hindi ba't malapit na rin siya magtayo ng sariling shop?"

"Opo. Balak niya nga po magtayo. Hindi ko pa po siya nakakausap tungkol doon. Busy din po kasi dahil maraming orders. Kapag nagreunion po kami."

Tumango siya. She then got a slice for lolo and gave it to him in the living room. I sat on the chair and texted Lia.

Ako:

I received the cake! Thank you Lia! Mas sweet ka pa sa cake na 'to. Goodluck sa business mo. Sana lumago pa. I'm looking forward sa shop mo :D Excited na ako. For sure ako ang una mong customer.

After a few minutes, she texted back

Lia:

You're welcome! Hope you like it. Enjoy! Special 'yan. Mas doble effort kong binake 'yan haha. First ten customers ko siguro may libreng cake din kaya alam kong ikaw pinakauna sa pila.

Ako:

Orayt! \(*O*)/

***

Kinabukasan ay binista ko naman ang puntod ng magulang ko. I stood up after placing the flowers beside their tombstone. Ngumiti ako habang nakatingin sa kanila.

"Hi ma, hi pa. Kamusta? Eto ako ngayon, abogado na. Atty. Alonzo. Ang sarap pakinggan," panimula ko. "I know you're proud of me. Sana kasama ko kayo magcelebrate. I miss you guys so much."

Umihip ang malakas na hangin.

"Nakapasok na po ako sa isang law firm. Gagalingan ko po sa mga kaso ko at ng sa gano'n ay marami akong matulungan. Goodluck to me."

Inangat ko ang paningin ko sa langit at tipid na ngumiti

"Atty. Alonzo. Andito na po yung client niyo," one of the secretaries said when she opened the door of my office

I nodded. "Okay. I'll meet them now."

"I'll inform them," she said and closed the door

I then compiled all the paperworks in my desk and put them in the side. I made sure it's all clean. I then finished my cup of coffee. Hindi nagtagal ay pumasok na rin ang kliyente ko.

"Goodmorning Attorney," she greeted

I smiled and went to her. "Goodmorning. It's nice to see you again Mrs. Torres," I said and offered a handshake. Tinanggap niya iyon. "Upo po kayo."

She fixed her dress and sat on the small sofa. "Thank you Attorney."

"How have you been?" I asked then sat on the couch in front of her

"I'm doing better now Attorney. Ang tagal ko pong pinag-isipan ito pero gusto ko na rin mag file ng divorce sa asawa ko matapos ang ginawa niya sa'kin. For me, it wasn't enough to file him attempted murder. I want to completely cut ties with him. Ayoko niya ng guluhin pa ako."

My brows slightly furrowed. "Even if he's already guilty and in jail now? Siguro naman po ay hindi niya na kayo guguluhin pa ng anak ninyo."

She sighed. "Hindi pa rin ako makampante Attorney. Matagal ko naman na talaga siyang gustong hiwalayan pero mahirap dahil pinagbabawal pa ang divorce dito at sigurado malaking pera din ang ipupundar ko pero hindi ko na dapat pala pinatagal kung ganito kalala ang ginawa niya. I never thought he tried to kill me."

I nodded. "I understand Mrs. Torres. Magagawan natin 'yan ng paraan. You can file an annulment against him but it will be a long process. May kailangan ka munang pirmahan na kontrata and after finalizing it, we can proceed to the next step. Pag-isipan mo muna at next meeting, I will ask another lawyer to assist you with the paperworks."

"Okay po Attorney. Salamat," she gave me a small smile

Pagkatapos ng meeting ay nagpaalam na kami sa isa't isa at tuluyan na rin siyang lumabas ng opisina ko. I went back to my desk and finished up the rest of my cases. Someone knocked on the door. One of my fellow lawyers, Atty. Mendoza, came in.

"Lunch break na. Gusto mo sumabay?" aya niya

I gave him a small smile. "Mauna na muna kayo. Matatapos na rin ako."

He nodded and closed the door.

Shortly, I went back to the cases and spent fifteen minutes working. Afterwards, I fixed my things and head out of the office. Nakahabol pa ako at nakasabay sa lunch nila. We then ordered coffee at a coffee shop nearby. Nauna na silang naglakad at nagpahuli ako para itext si Atty. Sanchez

Kuya Keith:

Are you free today or maybe this week? :D

To be honest, I suddenly got shy to ask him to hang out with me knowing that he's one of the best lawyers in town. For sure he's booked and busy. Isa na rin pala siyang doctor. Maybe he's tired or in a vacation but I realized he's workaholic.

Who am I to ask him to hang out? Wala naman akong masyadong kliyente dahil baguhan pa lang 'di tulad niya. I just want to catch up with him and ask him about the cases he has done so far.

When we all got back to our law firm, I checked my phone again in the office but to my disappointment, he didn't reply. Nag-over time ako para tapusin ang mga kaso. I didn't realize I took a short nap. I woke up when my phone rang. Nabuhayan ako. Akala ko si Kuya Keith pero hindi pala. Sinagot ko na ang tawag.

"Hey Ian. Napatawag ka. Kamusta?" I said, my voice still sleepy

"Mark? Is this you?"

I yawned and reclined on my chair. "It's Atty. Alonzo yes speaking," I corrected and smirked

"Oh thank God this is still your number. I thought you changed it."

I chuckled. "No. I still have your number too. What's up future Engineer?"

"I, uh, I'm doing alright. How about you?"

"Eto, lunod sa kaso. Kaya ko pa naman. No worries," I replied casually

"Honestly, I'm not okay. I have a big problem right now and I need your help."

My brows furrowed when I noticed he sounded nervous. Umayos ako ng upo.

"What did you do this time? Don't tell me you got into an accident again?"

"No. It's not about me."

"Family business?"

"My family always have issues but we're fixing it. Hindi iyon."

"Oh, what is it then?"

At first I thought he was just messing around but then his voice was serious which is odd since he's not typically a serious person. Laging may ganap sa buhay niya. Mostly sports and traveling the country based on his social media posts. He's living the best life but now, I can feel that he has a big problem.

He sighed. It took a while before he spoke. "I was hesitant at first to ask you for help knowing that it's been a while since we last caught up with each other but clearly, your my only hope and last option."

"Hey. It's alright. We're still friends. You can hit me up anytime. I mean, not anytime. I'm not as available as before but if it's work related then you can trust me," I assured him

"Thank you Mark. Sobrang importante lang talaga. Are you booked? Marami ka bang cases?"

"Hmm, not much. I recently finished a case. An attempted homicide case. Anong kaso ba 'yan?" I asked curiously

"Let's meet and I'll tell you in person."

I smiled. "Alright. Let's schedule a meeting together with the clients."

"Thank you Attorney. I knew I can count on you," nabuhayan ang boses niya

"Does your parents know about this?"

"Uh, no and please don't tell them too."

I clicked my tongue. "I see. Okay. Update me then."

A week has passed and I got another set of cases and clients but then I remember I have a schedule with Ian so I decided to put him first. Saturday came and I finally saw him again. Ian and I shared a quick hug. I offered him the box of brownies that I bought from Lia's shop but he refused. He then introduced me to the clients.

At first I was surprised when I saw them. Akala ko nagbibiro lang siya. They're just kids. How can they be...but then the moment our eyes met, I saw desperation and grief in them. They look helpless, innocent, and fragile. Nilagpasan ko si Ian at nilapitan sila.

"Hi! Goodmorning. I'm Atty. Mark Gabriel Alonzo and I will be the one handling your case. It's nice to meet you," I smiled as I introduce myself. I tried to be as friendly and light to break the ice so that they can naturally be comfortable around me especially when we start the case. And that they'd see me as a good and trustworthy lawyer as the first impression

"They looked scared of me at first when I introduced myself. I felt a little bit awkward. First time kasi na gano'n kabata. It's not like I'm not good at handling kids. I was just shocked but when we proceeded to the case, I realized that's the most challenging one I had," I continued

Lia blinked a couple of times. "Really? Sobrang hirap nga siguro. If I were you, hindi ko rin alam kung paano ihahandle yun but you did a great job with the case," she chuckled softly. "Kaya pala.."

I raised my brow. "What?"

"The day you acted so cold and serious. Tungkol pala sa kaso. Mabigat para sa'yo."

Bumaba ang paningin ko sa plato at tipid na ngumiti. "It wasn't just the case din. I told you that sometimes I feel like I'm not a good lawyer and that I'm still doubting and questioning myself if I'm good enough for this job. I don't know. Noon kasi, maraming nagsasabi sa'kin na hindi ako worthy maging isang lawyer. Siguro masyado rin akong na-stress at na-overwhelm sa dami ng kaso. Baka hindi ko kayanin yung trabaho," paliwanag ko. "But then eventually, I got better. It just takes time to get used to it."

She gave me a small smile. "I believe you're a great lawyer Mark. You are destined to be one."

"Thank you Lia."

"Tuloy mo yung kwento. What happens next?" she asked and moved closer to the table. "By the way, how thoughtful of you to share my brownies with those kids."

"Nagustuhan nga nila e."

She smiled sweetly, her eyes sparkled in joy. "Really? Kakilig naman."

Unti-unti akong yumuko. "Hindi ko akalain na magiging gano'n ang kapalaran nila."

"Why? What happened?" her voice turned soft

We were then interrupted by one of the waitress. She called Lia. Sabay kaming napatingin sa kanya.

"Uh, excuse po Ma'am Talliah. May naghahanap po sa inyo sa labas. Si Mr. and Mrs. Aguilar po. Ready na po sila tignan yung wedding cake and taste test na rin po ng ibang pastries na ihahanda sa kasal nila."

Lia stood up. "Oh, they're here already? Good. Papasukin mo na sila. I'll be ready in a minute. Thank you Kelsey," she gave her a small smile

"Sige po ma'am," paalam niya at umalis na sa harapan namin

"Mukhang may client ka pala ngayon," I spoke

She looked back at me. "Yeah. I almost forgot. Actually, dapat kahapon pa sila e. I'm sorry. Nabitin tuloy yung kwentuhan natin."

I smiled and stood up. "Okay lang yun. No need to apologize. Next time nalang natin ituloy."

She nodded. "Of course! Pwede naman ulit dito. Thank you for the chat Mark. I'm glad we finally caught up with each other. I enjoyed your kwentos."

"Thank you for listening. I had a fun time too."

We both hugged each other again and she escorted me outside her shop. I waved my hand as farewell. "See you ulit!"

Tumalikod na ako at nagsimulang maglakad palayo pero nakakailang hakbang palang ako nang bigla niya akong tawagin. Humarap ako.

"Mark! I almost forgot."

"Hmm?"

She smiled and gave me something. I looked at it. It's an invitation.

"Invitation for the first anniversary of my shop. I hope you can come. Ay hindi, kailangan mong pumunta kung hindi magtatampo ako."

"Oo naman. I will come. Kailan ba ako hindi pumunta sa tuwing may event ang shop mo?" I teased

Her brow shot up.

I chuckled. "Time flies so fast. Oo nga pala, mag-oone year na pala ang shop mo."

"Yeah. Maraming magaganap sa one year special anniversary and I'm sure you don't want to miss it. Two weeks prior pa naman so save the date, okay?"

"I will. I promise."

"Great! I have to go now. May kliyente pa ako. Ingat ka pauwi," paalam niya. She then turned her back on me and began to walk back to the shop but then she quickly turned to face me again. "And please don't be late!"

My smile grew wider. "I won't!"

***

When I got home, I saw my grandparents in the living room. Napatigil sila sa panonood ng tv at napatingin sa'kin.

"Oh, apo. Kamusta? Kumain ka na ba?"

"Opo la. Kayo po?" tanong ko at nagmano sa kanilang dalawa

"Kumain na rin. Bakit pala ang aga mo ngayon?"

"Ah. Bumisita po ako sa shop ni Lia sandali. Dapat po may kliyente ako na imemeet pagkatapos kaso hindi na po natuloy. Nagbago ang schedule. Pahinga na ako la," tipid akong ngumiti

She nodded. I then walked upstairs and went straight to my room. Hinubad ko ang coat ko at sinampay ulit iyon. The invitation that Lia gave me fell on the floor. I picked it up and sat on my desk. My lips curved into a smile while looking at it. Tumingin ako sa maliit na calendar na nakadisplay sa desk ko. May dalawang anniversary doon na nakalagay. Death Anniversary ng parents ko at anniversary ng shop ni Lia. Hindi nalalayo ang pagitan nila.

Napahinto ako nang may maalala.

Ilang buwan na palang nakalipas simula nung huli kong bisita sa kanya.

The next day, I woke up early around 8am to visit someone. I wore a white long sleeves and black slacks. Pagkababa ko ay nakita ko sina lola at lolo na kumakain ng almusal.

"May pasok ka apo? Akala ko e, day off mo ngayon? May lakad ka?" lola asked

"Opo la. May lakad ako. May bibisitahin lang po ako at may imemeet."

"Ahh death anniversary nga pala nila pero teka, 'di ba sa makalawa pa yun?"

Tipid akong ngumiti. "Hindi po sila ang bibisitahin ko la."

"O siya, kumain ka na muna dito," aya niya

"Hindi na po la. Kakain po ako sa labas."

"Sigurado ka?"

Tumango ako.

"O sige, mag-iingat ka."

"Bye po!" paalam ko at tuluyan ng lumabas ng bahay.

As I was driving, I stopped by at Lia's shop to buy breakfast and coffee.

"Can I also have this wallnut cupcake. Just one. Thank you," I pointed at the cupcake that was displayed inside the glass. The cashier took one out for me and put it inside a small box. I then took my coffee and the paperbag where she put the rest of my order

"Thank you Sir Mark," she smiled

"Thank you din," I replied. "Where's Lia by the way?"

"Ah, nasa kitchen po may kausap na kliyente sa phone."

"Alirght. Thank you again," I smiled back

"Have a nice day po!"

After going to the shop, I drove to a near flower shop and bought flowers then I drove my way to the cemetery. Hinanap ko kung saan siya nakalibing. I was lucky I spotted it quicker than I expected. I played the flowers and the one piece of wallnut cupcake beside the tombstone. Tumayo ako ng maayos at pinagmasdan ito.

"Pasensiya na kung ngayon nalang ulit ako nakabisita."

Mabigat pa rin sa loob ko ang sinapit niya kaya ginawa ko lahat para mabigyan siya ng hustisya. I did but the world was too harsh on him. It was beyond my control. It's been years now but we never forget. Never again.

I didn't stay for too long since I also have someone to meet. Tumingin ako sa kanya ng huling beses bago bumalik sa kotse ko at nagdrive sa susunod kong destinasyon. It felt nostalgic coming back to my old school, UP.

Napangiti ako pagkakita sa kanya.

"Kuya Keith!"

Napalingon siya noong tinawag ko siya. He smiled when he saw me. Mabilis akong naglakad palapit sa kanya.

"Hey Mark! It's good to see you again," he greeted then hugged me. I was surprised when he made the first move kaya maslalo akong natuwa

"Kamusta?"

"I told you not to call me Kuya anymore."

"Oh, right. Atty. Sanchez or Dr. Sanchez nga pala. Lowkey flexing huh?" I teased

He chuckled. "Just Keith."

"Anyway, I'm glad that we finally have the time to catch up with each other. Hindi ko lang inakala na dito sa UP," I said and looked at our surroundings. "Dito mismo sa Sunken Garden."

"Well, this is the most famous spot here and also my favorite. Who doesn't even want to chill here? The view is breathtaking that's also why I called you to meet early," he said while admiring the view like me

"Yeah. This is my favorite spot too."

Umupo na kaming dalawa sa bench pagkatapos.

"I bought food. Did you already eat?" he asked then showed me a paperbag

"I ate my breakfast in the car. Light lang."

He then took the food out and gave it to me. "Here. I bought a sandwhich and mango shake."

Lumiwanag ang mukha ko. "Thanks bro. Sakto, gutom pa ako."

We both dug in our meals. Mas masarap talagang kumain kapag may kasama lalo't na maganda pa ang view. Para kaming nagdadate.

"How's life? Work life, social life, love life?" he asked

I looked at him. "Okay naman except sa love life kasi wala pa ako no'n. I got too busy with work but I still have a great social life. Ikaw, buti naisingit mo ito sa schedule mo."

"Cause I know you want to meet me already. I'm sorry. I just needed the time to rest and heal. It's been a rough journey for me," he sighed

I slowly nodded. "Me too. Care to share? What's the last case you handled?"

"The last was the hardest that's why I needed a break from law a bit and enter med school. I mean, med was my first choice anyway," he casually said as if it was an easy thing to do

"I don't much about your personal life too. You have a sister right?"

"Mm-hmm."

"Hindi naman kita ijujudge. Ayos lang kung hindi mo sabihin basta hindi magbabago ang tingin ko sa'yo. You're one of the nicest guy I ever met," I complimented

His brow shot up. "Really? After what I said to you way back in highschool?"

My lips parted when I suddenly remembered our small argument in the past.

"Ayoko lang talaga na madamay pa. Ayokong mangielam.." nanginig ang boses ko

"And the result is, the victim is now suffering while the culprit is freely living his life free from jhis sin," he said coldly. His voice was enough to make me shiver let alone his cold stare

"Sorry.."

"And you're telling me that you wanted to be a lawyer in the future?" he asked and took a step closer to me. I can feel his intense stare on me. "E, witness pa nga lang, hindi mo na magawa. Gusto mo pang maging abogado? Hmm?"

I swallowed hard and immediately avoided his gaze. "S-sorry."

"H'wag ka sa'kin mag-sorry." 

That was the last thing he said before turning his back on me and began to walk away.

I smiled awkwardly. "Ah, uhm. Okay lang yun. I wasn't mad at you. Alam kong pinagsabihan mo lang ako. You were right. Na-realize ko na mali at naging duwag ako. Natakot pa nga ako e. Senior ka no'n at first year lang ako. Sikat ka pa. I didn't expect you'd even remember that."

"Yeah you looked terrified. You were innocent back then and a coward. I'm sorry if I was too harsh on you. I get that some people think I'm scary when I get mad."

I nodded in agreement. "You are. I mean, a little I guess...but you're still cool. Besides, ayoko ring magtanim ng galit sa isang tao. It's a burden. Payo sa'kin ng magulang ko that we should always choose to be kind than to be right."

Yumuko siya. "I wish I can be like that too." Tumingin ulit siya sa'kin. "But just so you know, people might took advantage of your kindness Mark. I think it should be balanced."

"You have a point there."

Damn, he's way too cooler than me.

"What's your last case by the way?"

Napatingin ako sa kanya sa tanong niya. Hindi agad ako nakasagot. I'm not sure if I'm ready to tell him knowing that it's still painful for me thinking about it. At the same time, I want too so he can give me an advice. He understands me best since we both have the same experiences.

"Well, where do I even begin?" I smiled awkwardly. Nakatingin lang siya sa'kin at tahimik na nakikinig. "It started with two kids. Ang laki ng naging impact sa'kin not only as a lawyer but as a person."

"I don't think I've handled such young clients before."

Yumuko ako. Bigla nalang nabuhol ang dila ko o baka hindi ko pa kayang ikwento.

"I realized now how hard our job is. We must seperate our personal life and emotions from our work and clients eventhough the line is very thin. At first, when I was a teenager, I didn't have the courage to chase this dream. Kailangan hindi mahina ang loob mo. I just have a deep empathy towards people. People who are abused, oppressed, and neglected. They are voiceless."

"Helping people isn't easy lalo't na buhay nila ang nakasalalay. And maybe some of their stories were a bit too much to handle or you can relate to them personally."

He managed to hit the soft spot. His words are always exact.

Tumingin ako sa kanya.

"You're right. It is hard to separate your personal life from work but in my case, it collided and it completely wrecked me. I wouldn't say it was such a bad experience but everything happens for a reason. It's beyond our control. We shouldn't torment ourselves with that or put ourselves into a pedestal. Acceptance and forgiveness are the two things I always remind myself. Right now, I'm doing a lot better. I'm happy and contented with my life.

"Do you sometimes get frustrated when things does not seem to go with your plan? Yung akala mo okay na. Maayos na. Tapos na...but then unexpectedly, may dumating na nagpasira ng lahat."

His brows slightly furrowed. "I mean, that's life. Things are not always gonna go according to plan that's why you have to adjust and compromise. Like I've said, some things are beyond our control. At the end of the day, you have no choice but to accept it. Pahalagahan mo kung ano yung meron ka ngayon. I hope you don't live your life with regrets. Greater things will come too that you deserve."

I nodded and gave him a small smile.

"Did you win the case?"

"Yeah."

Ngumiti din siya pabalik. "Good job. I'm proud of you. You're getting better Mark," he said and patted my back that made me feel so much better

"Thank you. How about you? Did you win your last case?" I asked. "Obvious naman siguro ang sagot. Wala ka namang kaso na hindi naipapanalo," I chuckled

"What do you think?"

My lips parted. "Hmm?"

"I'm not as great as you think I am Mark. I have my shortcomings too. That's okay," he said. "I didn't grow up having role models so I don't have anyone to look up to. I don't know what you saw in me but thank you because you consider me as one. I appreciate it. One day, you'll be someone's role model too. You're greater than you think you are."

Hearing those words coming from Keith himself gave me courage.

For some reason, my eyes started to water. Hindi ko na napigilan at niyakap siya. I felt his body stiffened.

"Thank you Keith. You're the coolest brother ever. I will remember your wise words."

He chuckled softly and patted my back. I broke our hug then his phone suddenly rang. He took it from his pocket. Sumilay ang ngiti sa labi niya pagkakita kung sino ang tumatawag.

"My fiance is calling me," he said and answered the call

My lips parted in surprise. "Fiance? You're getting married bro?"

"Yes love? Mm-hmm. I'm still with Mark. Pauwi na rin," he said on the other line

Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala sa narinig ko. I should have asked him about his love life first! Ang daldal ko kasi. Puro tuloy tungkol sa'kin ang napag-usapan namin.

"Yes. I bought your favorite cinnamon rolls. Don't worry. It's still warm. I know. Okay. I'll see you at home. I love you. Bye." Binaba niya na ang tawag pagkatapos

"Ain't no way brother!"

He looked at me and chortled. "What?"

"I never got the memo."

"Relax. We just recently got engaged. Wala pa masyadong nakakaalam. You're not late to the news."

My lips parted. "Oh, sorry," I replied a bit embarrassed

He simply smiled. "Well, I guess I have to go now. She's waiting for me to give her these," he said, showing me the paperbag of cinnamon rolls

Sabay na kaming tumayo.

"Thank you for the time Mark. I enjoyed it. We should do this again next time. I wish you the best of luck, always."

"Oo naman! Salamat din Kuya Keith, I mean Attorney, I mean Doc," I coughed

"Just Keith."

Ilang sandali ay nagpaalam na kami sa isa't isa. I watch him walk his way towards his car.

"Basta ako ninong sa kasal at binyag!" pahabol ko sabay kaway

***

Humigpit ang hawak ko sa manibela habang nakatingin sa oras. Today is the anniversary of Talliah's haven and treats and now, I'm on my way now to her cafe. The event will start at 8pm. 7:45 na at papunta palang ako. I'm almost late! I promised her na hindi ako malalate.

"Lord. Help. Sana hindi traffic," I prayed silently. Pabalik balik ang tingin ko sa oras at sa invitation sa tabing upuan ko. I tend to drive slower than other people because I'm already traumatized with car accidents. One of the reasons why I tend to get late. Isa pa ay bilin din ni lola iyon sa'kin.

Kumuha nalang ako ng candy sa dashboard ko at kinain iyon para maibsan ang kaba. I pressed the break when the light turned red. Napabuntong hininga ako. Konti nalang ay makakarating na ako. My phone suddenly beeped. I saw text messages from my friends asking me where I am. Sabi ko papunta na ako pero kanina pa iyon. Lagot na ako. I wasn't able to reply to them and focused on driving.

Naiimagine ko palang ang galit na mukha ni Lia ay natatakot na agad ako. Natatakot ako baka di na ako bigyan ng discount o kaya coupon o palibreng kape. What a nightmare! I shut my eyes and shook my head. Finally, after fifteen minutes, I've arrived at the shop. I quickly fixed myself and got all my things before going out of the car.

Nagsimula akong maglakad sa shop. There's already so many people inside as I look from the window. I stopped when I arrived at the door. I then looked at my watch and smiled when I came exactly at 8pm. Tuluyan na akong pumasok sa loob.

"What's up party people!" I greeted enthusiastically with my arms spread wide

Lahat ng bisita ay napahinto at napatingin sa'kin. Even the music stopped. There was a long awkward silence in the room.

"Mark?"

I smiled widely when I saw my friends that I haven't seen in a long time. "The one and only."

Then the music played again. Kasabay no'n ay nagsilapitan ang mga kaibigan ko sa'kin.

"Mark! Kanina ka pa namin hinihintay. Akala ko hindi ka na dadating e," said Inna and we shared a quick hugg

"Tsk. Ako pa ba? I'm always present in every occassion," I bragged

"Sabi mo kasi on the way e yung on the way mo, parang nasa bahay ka pa e," sabi naman ni Sabrina

I laughed then hugged her too.

"What's up Mark? Muntikan ka ng ma-late ah. Nakalusot," pang-aasar ni Kurt

"H'wag ka ng maingay diyan."

"Ang importante ay dumating ka pre," bati ni Cole

I then greeted the rest of my friends including Lia's family. Tinignan ko ang dekorasyon ng shop. There were golden balloons and ribbons. A huge sign that says Happy 1 year Anniversary. The tables and chairs were in a white table cloth with gold details. A flower arrangement at the center together with the plates and wine glass. It looked fancy and elegant.

I smiled when I finally saw Lia. She looked beautiful wearing a white dress above her knee with puff sleeves. There's small flower details and ribbon in the center. Her hair was in a braid. She's only wearing minimal make-up that enhances her soft features.

Our eyes met. She looked surprise when she saw me. Nilapitan ko na siya.

"Mark!"

"Hey. Happy Anniversary to Talliah's Haven and Treats," I smiled and hugged her. I also kissed her on the cheek. She smells like fresh roses mixed with lavander.

"You look lovely by the way."

"You came.."

"Of course. I wouldn't want miss this special day of yours," I said sweetly. "Di ako late ah. Sakto lang."

Kumalas na kami sa yakap. I gave her the boquet of tulips I bought for her. Lumiwanag ang mukha niya nang tanggapin iyon.

"Aw, thank you Mark. Tulips are my favorite."

"I know. It also matches your outfit. Hindi ko alam kung pastry shop ba pinatayo mo o flower shop," I jokingly said

She chuckled. "Ewan ko sa'yo."

"Pero mas blooming ka pa sa flowers."

She blushed and smiled shyly that I found adorable.

"I'm glad you came."

"Takot ako na baka awayin mo ko e."

"Talaga!"

"And of course, a party wouldn't be complete without a bottle of champaign!" I said and showed it to everyone. They all cheered and raised their glasses. Lia gave me a corkscrew and I used it to open the bottle. It almost hit the window. I sighed in relief. Mahina niya akong pinalo sa braso. I smiled awkwardly

I poured on her glass first then the rest of my friends.

"Akala ko noong una nag-hire si Talliah ng mascot pagpasok mo. Ikaw pala Mark," Sabrina teased

Ngumuso ako. "Grabe. Yabang mo na purket nataasan mo rank ko sa wallnut of fame."

They all laughed.

"H'wag ka 'no. Abogado na 'yan. Baka ipakulong ka niyan," said Kurt

I took a sip from my glass. "Kayo naman. Masyado niyo kong namiss. Ako pala star of the night at VIP dito. Also your daily dose of entertainment."

"Yeah magperform ka mamaya ah!"

Napailing ako at palihim na ngumiti. "Cheers guys!"

They all raised their glasses and we shared a toast. I looked at Lia and smiled. She's dancing a little with the beat of the music. She's still holding the tulips I gave her. Binati niya rin ang mga bagong dating na bisita. I took my phone out and called her for a picture. She moved closer to me and we both smiled at the camera.

"Say sweet!"

"Sweet!"

I then called Sabrina to take a picture of me and Lia. We positioned at the center where the lighting and background is on point. I wrapped my arms around her waist we both smiled at the camera. Sabrina also smiled then we heard a few clicks.

"Nilalanggam na ako sa ka-sweetan niyo," she commented

"Thank you."

Tinignan namin pareho ang pictures. Our friends called her for a picture as well. While they were all busy, I went to my instagram and posted our photos. I chose our selfie and the one that was stolen by Sabrina. Nag-isip ako ng magandang caption. I wanted it to be sweet not cheesy.

One of the sweetest souls I've ever met. I found courage in you. Happy Anniversary to Talliah's Haven and Treats. Your café will always be my safe haven. Congratulations! More years to come :D

After writing the caption, I posted it. I got a few reactions and comments from my friends. Some thought it was our anniversary as a couple. I couldn't help but to smile. I now realized that it actually seems like its our anniversary. Hinayaan ko nalang.

"Mark! Tara picture!" I heard Lia called me

Tumingin ako sa mga kaibigan ko at nakapwesto na sila sa gitna para sa group photo. I put my phone back inside my pocket and immediately went to them. Nag-compress kami sa gitna. Lia was at the center still holding the tulips in her arms. We all looked at the camera and smiled.

"Cheers to THAT!" we all said in unison while holding the number one finger

***

And THAT's a wrap. THE END :)