I [don't] Play God (Chapter 5)

Chapter 5 – The Order

“Head over heels.”

—Falling in love is like falling on a cliff, it hurts on your way down and as you fall deeper, you have no choice but to try to survive. After all, only wounds and bruises are just the price.—

           

            “Thank you. Enjoy your coffee and come again,” said by the service crew as she gave the coffee to Agatha. And as she was drinking, she saw someone from a distance, which seems to be familiar. A guy and a girl whom she thought was an acquaintance of hers. As she kept on staring on the couple, she saw it was Sophia. She was shocked. And what was more surprising is the guy who accompanies Sophia – it was Theodore. She couldn’t believe what her eyes were seeing. The two people she’s irritated with were together. On the other hand, she felt a sudden strange feeling on her chest. She couldn’t explain what is it and why was she feeling that way. She finished her drink and walked out the coffee shop for her next class.

“You can’t believe what I will tell you,” Ben excitedly talked to Agatha. But she was not in the mood and she just lent her ears without paying him too much attention.

“What’s that?”

“Sophia and Theodore are dating,” Ben continued.

“I already know that,” she smiled and answered sarcastically.

“Really? When? But I don’t think Theodore likes Sophia, maybe that slut was just flirting with him,” Ben theorized.

“Ben, whatever is their status, you must accept what it is. You disgust or not, it won’t affect them. Just be happy for them. Don’t prejudge them. We are not sure. Let’s just be happy for them. When I knew that, I didn’t bother… as long as they do not hurt others’ feelings.” Agatha was shocked with what she was saying. That’s not on her mind.

Ben, confused, agreed on what Agatha said. “Yeah. I better should. You know what Agatha, I was just wondering, don’t you like Theodore?” he asked. “You look good together, honestly. If I were Theodore, I will pursue you. I swear.”

“Oh, come on! Don’t say and ask things like that. He’s not the type of the guy I like…”

“Maybe I am that one. Haha,” Ben chuckled.

“You’re silly, Ben,” she answered shortly and sneered at him.

At the back of her mind, something told her that it was very sad to know what she has learned. It confused her, but she still insisted what her mind had already set: Theodore was nothing to her – NOTHING.

ͼѦͽ

            “Sis! What’s with the face?” Dorothy started as she saw her on the cafeteria.

“Nothing. It was just I was thinking of something.”

“What is it?”

“Sociology. Twenty-five pages of research about human behavior. I don’t know what to do first,” Agatha said, but the truth is, it’s not a dilemma. What really is her dilemma? Her head – what her head is thinking, specifically. She was very puzzled with all the things she’s been thinking.

The school bell rang. It was already three in the afternoon.

“Hey!” Karlos yelled.

“Why are you here?”

“I’m picking you up.”

“Really? You got to be kidding. I have a practice at 3:30, will you wait for me?” Agatha asked. “Dorothy is not part of the cheering squad, mind you.”

“A... e... It’s alright. She’s not the one I’ve been searching for. It’s you couz,” said Karlos while scratching his head.

“I’ll sleep first.” Agatha jumped into Karlos’ amber red 2009 Mr. Norm’s 426 Hemi Cuda convertible and started resting. While she was sleeping, Karlos was playing songs in his car. Suddenly, he noticed that something was also clamorous. He searched for that sound and found out that it was Agatha’s cellphone. He couldn’t wake up Agatha because she was onto a deep slumber. He answered it instantly thinking it was important. He didn’t notice who was calling, he just answered it. And surprisingly, it was Dorothy.

“Hi Ag! Oh my super jeepers creepers! You won’t believe what I’m telling you…” Dorothy told things so fast. She was so eager to tell many things that she forgot to know who’s on the other line.

“Hey? It is not Agatha. It’s Karlos.” He answered back.

“Oh my! Why do you have her phone?” she said, baffled.

“She’s sleeping. It was a long story.”

“Oh, ok.” She then shut her mouth up.

Awkward silence occurred. Few minutes later, Agatha woke up.

“Karl! Who’s on the line?” she pondered.

“Dorothy,” he replied.

“Why? Did you call her?”

“No. She did. Here.” He gave the phone to Agatha. The two chatted for such a long time leaving him alone.

On the other hand, the duo crossed their chat to the lonely kid outside his car, Karlos, as their topic.

“Is Karlos single?” Dorothy asked with giggle on her voice.

“Yes, he is. Why are you curious, huh?” teased Agatha.

“Nothing. Just wondering. We’re friends, right?”

“Yes. I know you like him. Don’t hide it anymore.” Agatha never heard her best friend like that. But she must admit, unlike her, some boys are intimidated with her. She’s sexy, but she’s a geek. She’s so reserved, but very tactless. A very ironic lady. Only few guys were strong enough to court her. Dorothy was the kind of person who falls in love so deep.

“No. How are you and Theodore? Haha.” Said Dorothy, diverting the topic to Agatha.

“What about us? He and Sophia are now dating,” told Agatha. She started to feel the same feeling she felt early this morning.

“That’s good. They look cute together.”

“Yeah,” said she with a low voice.

“What’s with the tone?”

“Tone? My voice?”

“No. My voice! You’re freaking me out, sis. What’s wrong with you?”

“Nothing. I’m fine. Hey, lemme clear this, I really had no feelings for that guy. I’m not a liar, right?”

“You’re not a liar. You’re just in denial. Ahahaha.” Dorothy laughed out loud. “Maybe we got same problems with boys. You bet!”

Their conversation was interrupted when somebody knocked on the car’s window. It’s Karlos.

“You’re practice is on now, get up couz.”

“Oh no! I’m late. Got to go, sis. Bye,” said to the girl on the other line. “I’m going. Thanks for the reminder Karl!” She jumped out of the car and elegantly walked out toward the gymnasium.

I [don't] Play God (Chapter 4)

Chapter 4 – The Other Mess

“A pretty woman must walk down the street to find his man.”

—You will never know whenever cupid is going to use his arrow of love, so you must always be poised and ready when you are about to be shot and fall, not on the ground, but on your lover’s arms.—

Dorothy, carrying her briefcase full of paper works, was walking down the streets alone. Her iPod was her best friend at the moment. The songs played on her iPod were her inspiration in writing poems and songs. Anyway, she was walking because she’s going to window shop on the boutiques along the sidewalk. Suddenly, she stopped at ‘The Manors,' something caught her attention. A beautiful yellow cocktail dress with white lace and little details on the bottom. She bought it easily and walked rapidly straight home.

As she walked down the road, she easily withdrew all the things she’s carrying and try to cover her face because of something that was approaching and caused her to panic. A bicycle was fast approaching on her. Splakk! Toogsh! Spoinks! Toogshingg! She fell on the floor recklessly. Her poise was completely gone and couldn’t handle to stand quick. The guy on the bicycle was thrown down to the other side of the street. It’s Dorothy’s unfortunate day – the pavement has no people around because it was a sunny noonday and only few dare to get burned by the heating sun. That means no one will help. The guy hushed back at her trying to assist her from standing up the ground.

“No! Don’t hold me. I can handle myself. Back off!” she shouted as she slowly picked up all her things.

“Miss, I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you, it was just my bike got no brake.” The guy explained.

“Yeah right. Your bike doesn’t have a brake. And me? Look at my skirt. What the hell did you do? It was torn apart. I hate you. Get out of my way.” Still fierce, she looked at the eye of the guy with much anger. Who will not? Your skirt was ripped off, you just can’t smile with that.

The guy just looked down and didn’t say a thing. Only after, his eyes followed Dorothy as she entered a boutique to change clothes. He really felt bad. He stood up, flipped his bike up and walked slowly like a million dollar loser. After that incident, the sidewalk’s silence returned and the sun shone brightly.

ͼѦͽ

In Dorothy’s bed. Agatha’s on the other line of the phone.

“Ag! I got in trouble few hours ago.”

“What do you mean?”

“A damn guy bumped into me when I was on my way home. And my skirt ripped off. It was very embarrassing. L”

“What did you do?”

“I killed him. Haha.”

“How does he look like?”

“He’s cute. Chinky eyes, nice lips. He’s hot. Haha.”

“Well, it’s time for you to have another man.”

“I hate him. I don’t like him.”

“Shut up. Haha. Anyways, come in Cafe Ghiotto tomorrow, 7 in the eve.”

“Why? What’s new?”

“My cousin is here. Mom wants to have dinner all of us tomorrow night. It was just a simple celebration. Be there D!”

“Ok. Ok.”

ͼѦͽ

            It was already past seven, but still, no Dorothy in Agatha’s place. Agatha was very worried. Dorothy was once lost when they were little and she was so anxious about her being lost. It is not impossible for her to get lost again because she has no sense of direction. Besides, she has her driver with him. She pulled her cellphone and dialed her Dorothy’s number to confirm where she is. **Ring! Ring!** The phone rang.

            “Hello. Where are you?” Agatha asked softly.

            “Oh, I’m sorry to make you worry. I’m on my way. My driver and I were stuck on something and my phone hung up,” Dorothy explained.

“Okay. Thank God. My cousin’s here.” Agatha smiled.

Twenty minutes more and Dorothy came in.

“Hi. Good evening Mr. And Mrs. Serrano. Sorry if I came late,” greeted Dorothy.

“No problem Dorothy. It’s good to see you again. Haven’t seen you in a while,” said Mr. Serrano.

“I’m good sir. Just kinda busy with all the paper works in school.”

“You’re really diligent like my Agatha. You two are undoubtedly brilliant and… beautiful,J” Mrs. Serrano butted in.

Everybody laughed with what Mrs. Serrano said. There were five of them sitting, but six seats were reserved. Dorothy noticed it.

“Who’s missing? Where’s your cousin, Ag?” Dorothy wondered.

“He’s…” Agatha was about to say when his cousin appeared from her back coming from the washroom.

Dorothy was so shocked with what she saw.

“Yo... You?” Dorothy asked.

“Oh my, why are you here, missing?” Agatha’s cousin replied.

“You both know each other?” Agatha was confused.

“He was the one I was telling you Ag!” Dorothy answered back to Agatha.

“Oh no!” Jillian exclaimed.

“Jillian, what’s her name?” Karlos asked Jillian, Agatha’s younger sister.

“She was Dorothy. Ag’s best friend. She is so pretty, isn’t she?” the eight-year old Jillian said to Karlos with full of cuteness as she hugged her self so tight.

“Ah, darling, maybe you already know each other but to introduce you formally, he’s Karlos, my nephew,” said Mrs. Serrano with a big smile on her non-wrinkle face. “Karlos, sit beside the lovely lady.”

“Yes, auntie.” Karlos was so reluctant to sit beside Dorothy, but he was left with no choice. A little scorn on Dorothy’s face was somehow noticed by Agatha. She tried to smile and talk with the Serrano’s.

“Anyway, how did you and Karlos met?” asked by Mr. Serrano.

“Uhm, it was an accident. He was biking down the road yesterday and his stupid bike went all the way down to where I walk and poof! I lied down on the street and the rest is history,” told Dorothy without controlling her being a geeky tactless. Karlos was totally embarrassed.

“But I did apologize to her…” Karlos said.

Silence then arouse as the night deepen. Dorothy and Agatha stepped out of the restaurant and talked about Karlos.

“You know what, I can’t believe that you and Karlos already met,” Agatha started the conversation.

“Me neither,” Dorothy shortly replied.

“But he is a true gentleman…”

“Maybe he is, but the thing is, I just can’t take what had happened yesterday. I felt like ‘Oh no!’ like that. I’m not mad at him. I just don’t like him.”

“Oh D! Don’t be like that.”

“And you with Theodore?”

“Never mind.” They then sat on a bench near the restaurant when Karlos appeared again like a ghost.

“Hey,” he started.

“You know what, I got to go and check Jillian. B-R-B.” Agatha winked at her cousin, walked out and left the two alone. She didn’t want to break the moment of the two.

“AGATHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!” Dorothy shouted and she turned over to Karlos quickly changing her mood.

“Karlos, don’t worry I’m not mad at you. I just don’t like what had happened. Sorry if I overreacted,” apologized Dorothy, while looking at his eyes. As she stared at him, she was stuck with her position and felt that there was something wrong.

“Thank you. Ugh, are you alright?” Karlos carefully asked.

But Dorothy was fallen under Karlos’ spell. She was mesmerized with his handsomely figure. He was standing six feet and three inches tall. His face was so charming especially when he let out his drop-dead smile. His cute chinky eyes were very lovable. Seconds later, Dorothy brought back her senses.

“I… I’m alright. Do… do not w-worry about me,” she just didn’t know what to say. She was stuttering.

“Really? Anyway, are we friends?” Karlos then flashed his dashing smile and his sparkling white teeth.

“Sure. F-f-friends.” They shook hands and started to talk about things.

    On the other hand, Agatha, from afar, was just looking at them shuddering with what she saw. Jillian also watched them together with her parents. It was a one pleasant night.

“I am now my best friend’s cupid,” declared Agatha to herself, leaving a smile before the night ended.

I [don't] Play God (Chapter 3)

Chapter 3 – The Mess

“One is enough. Two is too much. Three is surprising.”

—Fate starts the takeover. Things will go right when things might go wrong.—

She’s gently sleeping at the library. Oh yes, she was. Suddenly, a tap on her shoulder brought back her senses. It was Agatha. “Sis, why are you sleeping here?” she asked.

“Oh, Agatha. I’m so tired that’s why I fell asleep,” explained Dorothy. “I was filled with so much paper works and projects. Picasso made me do this,” Dorothy sighed. She’s referring to her Biology professor, Mrs. Peachy Cashew aka Picasso. She’s been so stressed with all those works these past few days. Sometimes Agatha tried to help poor Dorothy with her works ‘cause at any time, she might collapse.

“But I guess all those stress will be gone if I tell you this,” she excitedly started her announcement. “We… we are going to have CollteaB!” she yelled with exhilaration. A Shhh gesture from the librarian was seen, noticing Agatha’s quite loud, excited voice.

“Gee whiz! Really? Major! When will it start?” Dorothy asked with much anticipation.

“It’s going to be on the 24^th. Every college sophs are going. You should go to.”

“Of course I will. I won’t let that once in a lifetime radical event of being a Layvillean. Monique had told me that before and it’s really one heck of fun. Am so excited!” Dorothy enthusiastically said.

“And you just can’t really hide it. Lower your voice. We might get reprimanded by…” replied Agatha while pointing her lips on the librarian, who’s been strict with the noise inside the lib.

“So now, I must finish all these mess Picasso gave me. CollteaB, wait for me. Ahahaha.”

The two walked out of the library.

Cafeteria.

The two were sipping their caffè macchiato when Sophia came in.

“Serrano,” she said with conviction.

“Why?” Agatha replied innocently.

“Are you not going to the cheer leading practice today?”                        

“Sophia, we have no practice today. Aren’t you listening to Coach Ferry?” Agatha calmly explained.

“But why didn’t I know? Why did no one tell me?” she blurted out her disappointment while wearing her L.U. cheerleading jacket.

“’Cause you’re not around when it was announced…”

Agatha’s sentence was about to finish until…

“Holy cow!” she exclaimed.

A cup of hot coffee was accidentally poured on her preppy twill parchment skirt. It was Theodore, again.

“Sorry! Sorry! I didn’t mean to…” Theodore apologized.

“It’s alright. Do you have any tissue? D! Do you have one?” Agatha asked Dorothy. She felt slightly pissed with Theodore.

“Here sis.” The tissue was given to her by Dorothy. Theodore didn’t really know what to do. He’s panicking because it was Agatha. Strike 2. The two best friends went to the comfort room leaving Theodore, Sophia, and the other students in the cafeteria still shocked with what happened.

“See? He’s a walking disaster. Grr.” Agatha was still pissed. At times, she remained calm with situations like that, but she really can’t handle Theodore’s presence. It was really a different feeling when he’s around.

“Maybe that’s love?” Dorothy broke her anger.                 

“It can’t be. I haven’t been in love.”

“You said it. You haven’t been in love, how come you know that wasn’t?” Dorothy insisted while wiping her fogged thick glasses.

“I know it. I can feel if I’m in love or not. Not with that arrogant.”

“What did he do to you? You really look so frantic. Funny. Ahaha.” Dorothy chuckled.

As they went out, Theodore was still waiting for them.

“Hey, I’m really sorry,” said Theodore. “It was an accident.”

“Apology accepted. Don’t worry.” Agatha then smirked at him parting some bewilderment to the guy in front of her. The second bell rang. The cafeteria was now at peace as the other students went to their classes.

I [don't] Play God (Chapter 2)

Chapter 2 – The Big Reveal

“Everything’s unexpected. You can never tell what might happen next.”

—Fate knows what to do. It gives off something stupid, for you to release something special. Who knows? It might be love.—

It’s already 5:30 in the afternoon. Agatha’s about to go home, but Theodore, from nowhere, suddenly appeared.

“Hi! Going home?” he greeted.

“Yes. How about you?” she said with aloofness on her voice.

When she saw her car from distance, her driver was not there which means she has to wait for him to come, and Theodore has more time to ask questions. He’s still following her, but Agatha stopped from walking.

“Are you still going to follow me until I reach home?” said Agatha with irritation.

“No! Please don’t think I’m following you. My car’s parked over there. It’s not my intention…” he stuttered.

“Sorry. I was just irritated this day,” she apologized.

“Ugh, with what?” he asked.

Surprisingly, her driver came carrying some grocery items, she was saved by the bell, or by her driver. He said sorry to her for being late, and the goodhearted lass forgave him. The driver opened the door of her purple Jaguar XKR convertible. Before she fully entered the car, she waved and said goodbye to Theodore. The guy then walked toward his car, silver Porsche Cayenne.

ͼѦͽ

Theodore Montez was from a well-off family, although it is a broken one. He’s the only child of his parents, but he grew up with his grandparents. He’s such a loner, he didn’t like to mingle with others, but he’s not an emo kid who tends to cut off his wrist. And like a typical handsome guy, he had girlfriends, which proved that he’s a chick boy. Every girl dropped their jaws when they saw him. Oh well, with his scorching sex appeal and super good looks, who would not? He’s a white guy with medium built body. His lips were really kissable, his eyes were teasing. He was more than a jock.

“I’m home,” he said after he entered their house. Their house is painted with white and accented with black and gray furniture – a neutral type of house, somehow relaxing, but it really showed up the loneliness vested upon the settlers.

“How’s your first day, honey?” asked by her granny. She was helping their maid to prepare their dinner. She’d also like to do other chores because she didn’t want to die unhealthy.

“Mom, it’s kinda good but I was late in my first class. The traffic’s really a disaster!” he said with much irritation. He called his grandma as “Mom” because he grew up with her and never had a chance to be with his real mom who’s living in Denmark and managing their business. “Where’s Pop?” He’s been looking for his grandpa.

“Upstairs. He’s repairing the shower.”

“I’ll help him."                                                 

“No, dearie. He can manage. Don’t worry. Come with me.” And the two walked toward the kitchen. “I have cooked something for you.” Grandma took her baked macaroni, his all-time favorite.

“Thanks Mom! I really, really love you.” he said while hugging his grandma so tight.

ͼѦͽ

The alarm clock rang. He looked at the time. It’s already five in the morning. He’ll be late if he did not rise. He rushed to the bathroom, ready to take a bath. He took off his boxer shorts and started to bathe. After that, he did his other bathroom rituals, like the typical boys’ routine. He then removed his towel wrapped around his waist and wore his clothes on. He’s now ready to go to school. Downstairs, the food were already prepared. He then ate his breakfast, he really ate fast.

“Bye, Mom. I love you,” he then kissed his grandma and scurried away.

“Be good, little Theodore. You’re college now,” grandma advised.

“I will,” he went on the garage and rode on his car. He drove fast not to be late. He didn’t want to get reprimanded by Mr. Fernando, again.

At the school.

“Hi Agatha. How are you?” he greeted his seatmate.

“I’m fine,” she said shortly with a sneer on her lovely face. He’s wondering why she didn’t talk much. She’s very mysterious. Theodore was so curious with her.

“O-Okay. It’s nice to hear that.”

End of conversation. He, too, didn’t know what to say next. Awkward moment was on the air. With the two together, it always is.

“What’s with you guys?” Ben, one of the class jesters, broke their silence.

“Hey Ben! You shocked me. Haha,” she demurely laughs because of Ben’s gestures.

“Lad, you’re blessed. You’re beside Agatha,” Ben joked on Theodore. The guy didn’t know what to say. He didn’t know if he’ll be flattered or what.

     Mr. Fernando came. He put his things on the teacher’s table, ready to share his knowledge that morning. “Okay class, before I start the lesson for today, I would like to announce that on the 24^th, we’re going to have our annual college team building,” he started his announcement. “It is done by all sophomore students on L.U. and this year, we’re doing it on Mt. Crookeley.” The class mumbled. Some were excited, some were not. “Yes guys, you heard it right. We’ll go hiking. But wait there’s more.” The class stopped from having their issues. They seemed to listen to the professor, assuming that what he’d been telling was so important. “…below that mountain, there’s a beach there. And you’ll get to stay there for 3 days and 2 nights! So don’t forget to buy hiking stuffs and swimming gears for the incoming CollteaB (pronounced as kōlt-tee-yáb). It will be fun,” Mr. Fernando finished. Screams and yells were heard from the students. Even Agatha didn’t prevent from getting excited. Ben and others also jumped with joy because of what they heard. If they’ll just think of it, you’ll be with your friends and your crush for three days and two nights. That’s enough to let good things happen.

I [don't] Play God (Chapter 1)

I [don't] Play God Book Cover

Chapter 1 – The Fateful Encounter

“First impression lasts.”

—Falling in love is like first day jitters, you’re unsure of what might happen, yet it gives you excitement that pushes you to look further.—

            The rain fell hard. It fell like there’ll be no rain for the next few months. It was so scary that it might bring up a great flood, which was not wished by everybody. The news reported that there might have been a typhoon coming, and so everyone must be prepared.

Oh well, let’s skip to that flood thing, and let’s go back to the main thing.

It was the first day of the school year. All the college students, first year to fourth, was so excited to meet their friends whom they did not see for a couple of months, to strut some of their new stuffs they have acquired, or to share experiences they had during summer. And as she walked through the hallway, all the students she’s passing by seemed to know her. Her looks was really a scene-stealer. Her fair white skin suited her almond eyes and her red, glossy lips. Her black, checkered boyfriend shirt, partnered with her acid washed, maong shorts and a red vintage heels, complimented well with her stunning height, which is about 5”9’ to 6 feet tall. And everybody smelt her very aromatic perfume that added a turn on to her very pleasing personality. Even though she’s a one hot chick, she remained to be a one real sweetheart. Being down to earth was her most attractive feature and this girl doesn’t have any swagger deep down her skin. As she continued walking, she then proceeded to her first class on her first day.

She was Agatha Serrano, a sophomore student taking up BS Accountancy in Layville University. She’s one of the most intelligent students, as of school’s record, and she’s one of the well-famed students – she’s the cheerleading captain of the campus. In short, she has beauty and brains, which only few possessed. Basically, she knew how to balance her academics as well as her extra-curricular activities. The professors of her class always made her a model of Excellency which made others, especially those filthy girls of the class, envy her. Perfect scores, spontaneous class participation, and a good camaraderie, that’s what they always say about her. Yeah, she’s way too perfect, but the thing is, nobody is perfect so she can’t be. The only thing she’s missing – her love life. She’s afraid to fall in love, to be hurt, and to get pimples.

The rain drizzled all over the campus area. Still, many students were on their way to different areas inside the school.

Agatha confidently entered in the classroom and many expressed their “hellos” to her.

“Ag! You’re here now. Where have you been last summer?” someone approached her.

She was unaware of the question and reluctantly said “I’m good. I didn’t go out.”

She was that just thrifty and prudent to answer everyone’s greetings, she’s not much of a talker. She’s silently waiting for their professor to come in while the others continued their exchange of stories. After ten long minutes, the Economics professor came. The usual orientation of names and other stuffs then proceeded, like the checking of attendance, the discussion of the school’s mission and vision, and the student’s ever wanted – it goes with sarcasm, storytelling of the prof’s life. But twenty minutes later, their reticent aura that day broke when somebody hurdled in. Agatha, like the others did, looked over the guy and tried to see what’s going on. She doesn’t clearly saw his face because he was kneeling down, shaking his head, and trying to look at the time. “Who are you, mister?” said Mr. Rutherford Pablo Fernando, their Economics prof who likes to boast every single achievement he ever received in his entire life.

“I am Theodore Montez, sir,” said the guy still catching his breath.

“Well then Mr. Montez, you are 20 minutes late. And as I have said to this class earlier, I hate late comers. I will forgive you this time, but just make sure you’ll come quickly or else I won’t let you in for the rest of the semester. Understand?” said Mr. Fernando with his strict low voice. Theodore, felt embarrassed, just nodded his head, picked his backpack and tried to find some seat. He’s that handsome and quite appealing that most girls inside offered him to sit beside them.

“Mr. late comer!” Mr. Fernando exclaimed. “Go and sit beside that beautiful lady in black.”

He just followed what the old man said. He started sitting and tried to open a conversation with Agatha.

“Hi. I’m Theodore, what’s your name?” he approached Agatha with a flirty manner.

“I’m Agatha. If you just come earlier, you’ll get to know me,” replied she. Agatha’s not a real snob. She’s just upset with Theodore’s presence. And also, she dislikes flirt guys. And Theodore, according to her instinct, is one of them.

“What a lovely pair, in front of me? The cheer captain and a late comer looks cute together, aren’t they?” said Mr. Fernando. The class started to mock the two.

“But sir, we’re still going to have an election for the muse and escort, aren’t we?” Sophia, the class mistress, butted in.

“Oh yes, we will. Make sure you’re going to be the muse ‘cause first day insecurity’s never good, sweetie. Okay we’ll proceed,” replied to Sophia, with annoyance. Mr. Fernando continued discussing.

Sophia Abbe was Agatha’s longtime rival. Since kindergarten, Agatha and Sophia were arch nemesis. Agatha didn’t fight Sophia, but the latter always competing the former because of one nonsense reason – insecurity. She’s an attention seeker, too bad she didn’t get enough. Her biggest breakdown was when Agatha became the cheer captain. In contrast to Agatha, Sophia’s so annoying, so obtuse and always a big, brat bully of the school together with her cousin, Monica.

The school bell then rang. The rain stopped. Students were moving on a quick phase toward the door. They’re now heading to their next class, Biology. Agatha was about to meet up with Dorothy, her geek best friend. She’s taking up BS Marine Biology and loves to read books, especially science book – one clear sign of being a geek. But unlike typical geeks, she knew how to dress up. She could be a runner up to Agatha when it comes to looks minus her thick eyeglasses which she never took off.

“D!” Agatha shouted. Their meeting place is the cafeteria.

“You’re here! Will we go now?” asked Dorothy wearing a white floral tube dress which is above knee length with a blue bolero on top and a cute, black flats plus her signature piece, her thick eyeglasses.

“My first class was off for a start. As usual, Sophia was there and a guy named Theodore is trying to keep up with me. Geez,” confessed Agatha.

“Girl, you’re wise enough to handle those things. What’s the purpose of your awards, achievements and stuffs if you can’t handle a simple dust in your dress,” said Dorothy, who was about to laugh because she haven’t seen her best friend that irritated for years. “I know Sophia’s not the problem. It’s the guy who’s right next to you. Haha!” added Dorothy and now bursting her laugh.

“Shut your mouth. Haha. I know what you mean,” Agatha yelled at Dorothy.

The two then walked away from the cafeteria and went to their next class.

Are You Born This Way?

This is an oratorical speech of mine. I presented it on our final exam in our Speech class. Nothing. I just felt so empowered to say these lines. I was just inspired. Glory to God and to my Mother - Lady Gaga. I just want to share my thoughts.

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Folks, it is a superb opportunity and a great pleasure of having you here, as we celebrate the liberation of our minds from all the corruption.

            Forty-eight years had passed since the great Martin Luther King, Jr. addressed his sentiment about racial discrimination. His speech emancipated so many doubts, not only of the black Americans, but also those races all over the world. They were no holds barred from then on. Moreover, today, we must start gender deliverance and concession. If they say that, there is already freedom and justice, then let us all feel that there really is.

            God created us, in accordance to His will, equally. Now, why is there partiality? Why is there discrimination? Why is there a feel of superiority over others? These questions I consistently ponder these past few days. In addition, as I critically analyze and search for answers, I asked myself again, “Is it just most mouths are that afraid to voice out such issues or there are just ears who are not willing to listen to, if not appreciate, the premises to be presented?”  But as I heard two lyrically-brilliant songs, Fucking Perfect and Born This Way, sung by Pink and Lady Gaga respectively, I became inspired and empowered – empowered, in a sense, that I realized that there’s more to life than running, hiding, and doing nothing even before you die.

Critics may bash me with all the words that may come out from my mouth now, but I just do not care. If the world is scared, then I swallow my fear. As Turnus, a character from Virgil’s Aenid, quoted, fortes fortunate adiuvat – fortune favors the bold. I am that brave to present you three propositions for you to think of. First is the homosexual discrimination. Gays and lesbians alike were always discriminated with the way they look, with the way they act. Their morality is likewise questioned. The Catholic Church is not at ease, if not totally against, with them. They are condemned. However, what do we know about them? Their predicaments? Do they know something about the things they’ve been through? Are they a disease everyone must be afraid of? Are they of convicted person’s level? Think. In fact, how do they fight something that’s out of their control? Some theories hypothesized that it is caused by some genes, but, honestly, psychosocial factors greatly affect one‘s mind. Even in the animal kingdom, or with plants, homosexuality occurs. They are normal; they are human. If you condemn them, you’re just belittling yourself. Therefore, who are we, especially the Church, to judge them? Isn’t it what you contribute is more important than what you possess? To all the gays and lesbians all over the world, stand up and be defiant. Be defiant enough to be yourself without harm. Be defiant enough not to be outcast, bullied or teased by anyone. We are born to be ourselves, not to be what others want us to be.

My second point is gender stereotyping. It is the struggle between men and women. Men should not typecast women from what they usually do. Ever since the civilization began, women are always under men’s powers. Men always claim superiority, though they are damn wrong. Both parties can do what the other can. God made us uniformly, and so with our abilities. Thank goodness, for those women with unwaveringly contribution to our progress these past few decades. Henceforth, they must be acknowledged. I am saying this not because I am a feminist, but because I want to set the records straight.

On the other hand, as part of men’s so-called superiority, some tend to be abusive. Once they are mad, they are becoming violent. However, we are not bound to hurt anyone, in any form. Every one of us has no right to hurt anyone – whether human, animal, or the environment. We are born to be equal, in all sides, in all forms.

My third notion is the gender acceptance. Homos may not be discriminated, men and women may not be stereotyped, but do all these and other premises be accepted and harmonized? The society is always cruel to those new to their eyes. People who do not belong to the norms of the society must painstakingly prove their worth just to be accepted. For instance, the bisexual community. They are the most misunderstood people on earth. They are always overlooked by others. They are those people who have to prove to those straights that they are not gay, yet they must prove to homos that they are not straight. People may get aloof of their presence, knowing that they are of different circle. Either or, they are trying to hide their true selves in front of others, regardless of others’ orientation, due to the fear of rejection. Rejection, in a sense, that can be insulting. It is because some may hate you for being who you are and try to change you. Remember that it’s always hard to deny and to be denied. On that note, both worlds may screw you up and leave you alone. Being bisexual is not being a faker, a schizoid, or just after having sex. Most likely, they’re just confused of being who they are or they’re just capable of attraction towards any orientation. To promote true freedom and fairness in our society, these people must be given a chance to penetrate into a world created by some than letting them creating their own – as ostracized civilians. We are born to be recognized and to be upheld.

When it all happens, when we allow true freedom to abode in our hearts, minds, when we let each other and every country live accordingly, and happily, we will be able to die free from any hurt. No matter what gender you are, in God’s eyes, we are all the same. To Him, there's no high or low position. Let us live His way, because God makes no mistakes. Just follow your track, be brave because you were born that way.

Soul Sister, Foul Mister

               I am Adora. Adora Quisumbing. I’m a lounge singer, a wife, a mother. My dream? I dreamt of being a star – a superstar. I want to be famous, to be popular, to be wealthy, and to be respected. But that’s just a dream, only a dream, and will only be a dream. I’m not that beautiful to be paired with the handsomest men in the showbiz industry. Also, I’m not that flawless to throttle those sexy women wearing skimpy dresses. I am just simple. I am just being me.

                I am living in a city, oh yes, a city, but don’t you be much beguiled if I am living in a city. I am living in a house, amongst the towering skyscrapers and mansion-like houses amidst this one big city, which can be categorized as one of the poorest and most dismal-looking ghetto houses. You’ll never even dare to switch places with me, not at all. Well, I am married to Johnny, a carpenter, and we have two kids, a one year old and two months old, respectively. Johnny regularly works by day while I go into the bar, obviously, at night. Oh, I want to clear that I am no hooker; I am only just a singer. The kids? They’re not living with us, my sister, Laura, is taking care of them. We, but most of the time, I, visit them in her house for about two to three times a week or so, I f I have spare time. Things remain unchanged, not until that day came.

*Knock! Knock!*

I opened the door. It was Johnny.

“Dear, are you drunk?” I painstakingly asked.

“Of course, I am! Didn’t you notice? Stupid!” he said while he almost stumble as he tried walking towards the house. “Get off my way, I’ll sleep.”

“Okay.”

Johnny has changed and I didn’t know why. Lately, he’s getting home quite late and his attitude got a little bit rough.

⃝⃝⃝

“Hey! Adora!” the woman shouted. It was Claire.

“Oh Claire, why? I’m off to the bar.”

“Did you know…” she started.

“Know what?”

“Your husband, Johnny…”

“What’s with Johnny?” I confusedly said.

“…. Johnny. Johnny… Johnny has another woman,” she declared, nervously.

“Oh no! Not my Johnny. He can’t do that,” I refused.

“But you can’t deny the fact that I saw Johnny and that bitch kissing so bad yesterday,” she added.

“Who the hell is that girl? Where?”

Tears slowly came rushing down onto my eyes. I tried to stop it, but I couldn’t. I tried to hide it, yet it showed. My knees were rattling. I can do nothing. I just hugged Claire that time. I didn’t go to work then. Gravity was so strong that I couldn’t raise my feet off of the ground. Felt like the Earth were shaking and the ghetto streets came falling apart.

“Hey! Hey! Adora! Adora! Wake up!” ‘Twas Claire trying to wake me up.

As I opened my eyes, nothing has changed, I’m still where I was, but my heart, my heart felt like ‘twas stabbed by a million knives and left bleeding.

Just a few steps and…

“Where are we?” I asked.

“Where here,” she said. “This is where I saw them. If I were you, I’ll often go here from now on. Just to check. I guess you want some proofs, don’t you?” she advised.

I just nodded. I felt like my body’s trembling. I just didn’t feel good. Why would I, in the first place? So I went home. As I reached home, I found my half-naked adulterous husband lying on our old, crippled couch as if he had no problems at all. I went to our dining space, adjacent to the living area, the bedroom, the comfort room, and the kitchen only divided by pieces of plywood gathered by him from his work, and sat there and recognize things out. I really wondered who the hell that woman could be.

⃝⃝⃝

Another painful day has started. It’s been three days since I heard that damn bad news. I just wished Jigsaw killed me, for me not to feel the hurt, but it’s still there. And every time Johnny walks in, I don’t know what to feel, especially now that I know that he’s been cheating on me. It’s really hard to pretend as if I feel none.

“Cook me some food?” he asked barbarously.

“What will I? We got no stocks, Johnny,” I answered. “You ate the last egg here in the basket, this cheese bread is already spoiled, and this fish, it was already eaten by a rat.”

“What do you want me to do, vomit the egg I ate? Reheat the cheese bread? Or put that fucking rat in a guillotine for he had done a mortal sin? What? Go and find some food,” he raged.

“Why don’t you?” I said in a pugnacious manner. “You know what? I’m sick with all your shits. You’re treating me like a slave now. Why have you changed? Why?”

I cried. I hardly cried. Simultaneously, he choked me and pushed me against the wall. It’s the first time he did something like this to me. He’s not that brutal before. My body felt pain, but my heart, it felt double.

“Why? Adora, you have a problem, don’t you? The time you said ‘I do’ to me, you are already my slave.” He gripped my neck tightly.

“But we never get married,” I said, while grasping my breath.

Suddenly, after a few minutes, he let go of me. He then kneeled down.

“I’m sorry,” he repeatedly said.

I stared at him. The old Johnny was back.

“Will you forgive me?” he asked.

I did not answer. I moved out from where I stood and headed to the room. My body was out of my control that moment. I started packing my clothes until he saw me. He ran unto me and hugged me caressly. Slowly, he rubbed his cheeks on my back. I grabbed my things and started to leave, but he did a gesture of refusal, he clutched his hand onto my arm and put my bag down.

“Please don’t leave me,” he insisted. “I love you. I’ll die if you leave.”

“Then I’ll better wait to see you die.” I didn’t know where I got the strength to say those words; it just came out of my sultry mouth.

“What I’ve said earlier were all a lie. I was drunk, though. I’m sorry.”

“Even the ‘I love you,’ also a lie?”

“No. I mean the one I said when I’m furious,” he explained as he shrugged his head. “Don’t ever leave me, I love you very much.”

All my anger suddenly disappeared. My heart bore no pain at all. I just loved him so much and so I chose to stay by his side – no matter what. At that momentum, I hugged him so tight as if we’ve never seen each other for years. Half of my life, I already devoted it to him and without a doubt, the rest of it will also be his.

“I love you, Johnny.”

“I love you, too, Laura.”

My eyes bulged out. My world turned upside down. I became so frantic. I felt like I’m dead.


To be continued...