- Help
- |
-
Contact Us
v
-
Register |Log Inimg
-
-
Sports
Recreation
Clubs
Photo Galleries
-
Music and Radio
International Movies and TV
Showbiz
PHOTOS: Alaska Sweeps Ginebra
Alaska beat Ginebra 104-80 in game 3, sweeping the series and bagging the Commissioner's Cup title.
read morePhilippine Road-trip Destinations
Summer seems to be ending, but the feeling doesn't have to end. Check out this list for awesome road-trip getaways!
read morePHOTOS: NU Outlasts AdU
The NU Lady Bulldogs outlast the AdU Lady Falcons in 4 sets, taking their first trip to the Shakey's V-league finals.
read moreThe Flick List (Themed)
Guess the theme! Have you seen Twilight, Sister Act and these other movies? Share your thoughts and reviews in here!
read more
- Forum
- Entertainment & Showbiz
- Local Movies and TV
- Showbiz - Female Celebrities
- T'fiers♥TRICIA SANTOS★MESMERIZED? Be SHIMMANIZED.. Be TRICIAFIED~Tfiers★C101♥
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:08 PM #41♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:13 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:09 PM #42♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:15 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:11 PM #43♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
[img]http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad59/kyohensunako/Turing%20at%20SMB/lcts9.jpg
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:17 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:12 PM #44♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:18 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:13 PM #45♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:20 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:14 PM #46♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
[img]http://i1021.photobucket.com/albums/af336/ngaylu8/DSC_3688.jpg[/url]
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:22 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:16 PM #47♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:24 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:17 PM #48♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 12:43 PM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:18 PM #49♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 12:46 PM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:19 PM #50♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:30 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:20 PM #51♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
[/INDENT]
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:32 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:21 PM #52♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 02:45 PM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:23 PM #53♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:36 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:24 PM #54♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:37 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:25 PM #55♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
By: itsmeowh / Seya / ROYALS
Chapter 1
after the SO taping:
nagkita sila ivan and tricia sa labas ng starbucks ..
ivan approached tricia.
ivan: trish .. wanna go out ? tara,pasyal tayo.
tricia: sorry ivan, im already tired .. maybe you could ask fretzie to come with you.
siguradong papayag yun .
ivan: ganun ba. its alright .. thanks then. get enough rest okay?
tricia: sige sige, uwi na ko ha .. bye.
ivan: take care!
(umalis na si tricia .. after a few mintues, pumunta si fretzie sa starbucks at nakita niya si ivan na malungkot habang umiinom ng frappucino.)
Fret: hey ivan! what's up? .. ang lungkot mu ata?
Ivan: nothing, just thinking ..
Fret: ano naman iniisip mo? oh ..before i forget, tricia called me .. she asked me a favor.
Ivan: ano yun?
Fret: kung pwede ako na lang daw ang sumama sayo sa mall .. hmm. AHA! kaya ka siguro malungkot kasi hindi ka niya nasamahan noh? yiee ..
Ivan: what are you talking about?? niloloko ko lang si tricia .. ba't ko naman siya aayaing mag-mall .. im already exhausted.
Fret: really?
Ivan: yeah . don't take it seriously .. hehe (then fake smile). okay, got to go. bye fretz! sorry , tricia disturbed you pa.
Fret: it's nothing. ok. bye ..
while si tricia ..
Tricia: sana masamahan ni fretzie si ivan ..
( she received a sms from fretzie )
-- from fretzie: tricia, ayaw naman daw pumasyal ni ivan eh .. he's tired already.
* naasar si tricia dahil nag-alala pa siya kay ivan na niloloko lang naman siya.
Tricia: arghh!! ginu-goodtime lang siguro ko nun ni ivan .. naistorbo ko pa tuloy si fretzie ..
asaaaar!!! (napasigaw si tricia)
Manong Driver: mam, ok lang po kayo?
Tricia: ayy ,, sorry manong .. nevermind.
Manong: si sir ivan na naman po problema niyo nu?
Tricia: bakit ko naman siya poproblemahin ?! mag-drive ka na lang dyan please?
Manong: ok mam .. sorry po.
Tricia: ok lang. wag ka lang tsismoso.
(tricia's mind: ano ba to?? bakit ko nga ba pinoproblema si ivan??)
@ivan's bedroom ..
* ivan can't sleep so he decided to call ann ..
Chapter 2
Ivan: hi ann ..
Ann: hello ivan. bakit ka napatawag?
Ivan: im sad
Ann: May problema ka ba?
Ivan: about trish ..
Ann: ah, alam ko na.. hindi mo parin nasasabi sa kanya?
Ivan: Hindi pa, di ko pa kaya eh.
Ann: Hay nako. torpe king ka talaga.
Ivan: Im afraid .. baka mailang siya sakin.
Ann: tsk. eh ako na lang kaya magsabi sa kanya?
Ivan: wag. ako na lang. sasabihin ko din naman eh.. humahanap lang ng tyempo.
Ann: sus. sige ka, baka maunahan ka pa ng iba jan. haha. joke
Ivan: wag naman sana.
Ann: hmm.kaya mu yan. basta if you need help, nandito lang ako.
Ivan: aww. thanks ann.. sige. baka nakaistorbo na ko sayo. bye. thanks uli. goodnight!
Ann: okay. goodnight torpe king.
* ivan was about to sleep when he received a sms from tricia ..
Tricia: hi ivan! free ka tom?
(ivan replied ..)
Ivan: hmm. yep..why?
Tricia: star city tayo!
Ivan:s sure. sige ba.
Tricia: ok, see you tom! punta ka na lang here sa house at 2pm. goodnight!
Ivan: ok. goodnight. sweetdreams.
(nawala bigla ang lungkot ni ivan at napalitan
ng excitement!)
Chapter 3
Dahil sa excitement, pumunta si ivan sa bahay ni tricia ng 1pm.
Ivan: hey trish .. let's go na !
Tricia: ang aga mo naman. excited?? haha!
Ivan: Haa? hindi ha ..
Tricia: eh ba't ang aga mo??
Ivan: ahh.. kasi .. ano eh. ayaw mu ba?
Tricia: aminin mo na kasing excited ka.
Ivan: ok, cge .. excited na kung excited ..
kasi .. you know . it's my first time there. hehe.
Tricia: Ahh .. okay. mag-eenjoy ka dun sigurado.
Ivan: so.. halika na!
Tricia: wait lang, may inaantay pa tayo!
Ivan: HAAAAA?? SINO??
Tricia: Owveeerrr ka naman mag-react! Oh, ayan na pala sila eh ..( James, Jenny and Fretzie came)
( Ivan was shocked. He thought na sila lang dalawa ni trish ang aalis .. )
James: Are we late?
Tricia: Nope. You're on time! sooo.. let's go na!
James: Let's use my car .. is it okay?
Ivan: BUT!
Tricia: sure.
(Ivan's mind: ba't kasi kasama pa si james!)
* Umupo si tricia sa front seat while si ivan naman nakapwesto sa back seat with jenny and fretz.
May naramdamang inggit si Ivan kay James.
Nakita niya kasi ang masayang kwentuhan ni Tricia and James
while they're on their way to Star City.
Chapter 4
setting: star city
sumakay sila James,Tricia,Ivan,Jenny and Fretzie sa iba't ibang rides
sa star city .. nang medyo napagod na . they decided to take a break.
James asked Tricia if she wants ice cream ad tricia nodded.
Umiral ang selos ni Ivan at nakatitig lang kina James at Tricia.
Fretz: Hey ivan, are you okay? mukang sa lahat ng nandito, ikaw lang nakabugnot!
Ivan: of course i am, iniisip ko lang kung anong oras rehearsal bukas.
Jenny: Yun ba talaga , eh ba' ka nakatitig kila tricia .. hmm. ang sweet nila no?
Fretz: o baka naman gusto mo din ng ice cream. haha (jen and fretz laughed)
Ivan: I hate ice cream! (habang nakatitig pa din kila james)
Jenny: UUy..selos ka no?!
Ivan: (Parang wala sa sarili) I will not anymore eat ice cream!
Jenny: you're jealous nga .. don't worry kami bahala!
Ivan: (bumalik sa katinuan ang isip) what? ha??
* Fretz and Jenn called Tricia and James
Fretz: tara, pasok tayo sa horror house!
Tricia: Ayokooo!
Jenn: Oh, ganun ba. good.. Ivan don't want to go inside too. right ivan?
Ivan: me ? ahmm .. yeah
Fretz: samahan mo na lang si tricia, sumakay kayo sa ibang rides! c'mon james .. come with us! (hinila si james at tinulak si ivan kay tricia)
James: hmm .. sure.
Jenn: so enjoy guys! text na lang namin kayo.
Tricia: uhh. sige .. enjoy din ..(blank face)
Ivan: Ayy! wait..sama na lang ako sa inyo!
James: ok, i'll stay with tricia na lang..
Ivan: oops .. just kidding, sige na pasok na kayo dun!
James: are you sure?
Ivan: OF COURSE! go ahead na!
(ivan's mind: yessss! this is the time! haha)
Chapters 5 and 6
Chapter 5
Tricia: so Ivan, halika na, sakay na tayong ibang rides,
what do you want?
Ivan: IKAW ..
Tricia: ako??
Ivan: ha? i mean .. ikaw bahala. (arghh, ba't hindi ko padin masabi ..
maybe later)
Tricia: ok! let's go! ( hinila ni tricia si ivan.)
Ivan thought: be calm ivan .. be calm. wag kang magpahalatang ninenerbiyos ka!)
after 2 hours ng pagsakay sa mga rides sa star city ..
Ivan: Did you enjoy?
Tricia: of course!, eh ikaw?
Ivan: oo naman, kasama kita eh !
Tricia: (pinalo si ivan) tsk. mapagbiro ka talaga!
Ivan: (speechless .. he can't believed he said that)
he thought: aaminin ko na sa kanya!
and he shouted: AAMIN KO NAAA!
nagulat si tricia.
Tricia: huy! anong aaminin mo ?
Ivan: (nagulat din) ahmm .. wala. it's already late. hatid na kita.
Tricia: ano nga muna yun. bigla bigla kang sumisigaw dyan.
Ivan: wala yun ..
Tricia: wait .. nasan sila?
Ivan: sino?
Tricia: sila james .. di nagtxt sa'kin eh
Ivan: AAHHH.. oo nga pala, yun yung aaminin ko sayo.
Tricia: huh?
Ivan: na sorry, i forgot to tell you kanina .. they went home already.
Tricia: what? iniwan nila tayo?!
Ivan: ahh .. ehh .. may emergency daw?
Tricia: whatever! dapat sinabi mo sakin kanina eh. uwi na tayo!
Ivan: taxi na lang tayo ..
Tricia: malamang, eh yung kotse mu di ba nasa parking lot namin.
Ivan: I'm sorry trish .. nakalimutan ko kasing sabihin na umalis na si ..
Tricia: masyado ka kasing nag-enjoy .... JOKE (sarcasm tone)
Ivan's mind: ba't ba kasi hinahanap mo pa si james, eh nandito naman ako.
Tricia's mind: magagalit ba ako o matutuwa?!? ..
(sumakay na sila ng taxi)
Chapter 6
sa taxi , nakatulog si tricia dahil sa sobrang pagod .. nasandal siya sa
balikat ni ivan
ivan: god! she's really beautiful..
nang biglang ..
POOOTTT POOOOOTTTTT (bumusina ng malakas yung driver)
* nagising si tricia
Tricia: what happened??
Driver: sorry po, may biglang tumawid ehh ..
Ivan: YOU RUINED OUR MOMENT!
Tricia: moment??
Ivan: (kunwaring walang narinig) sige na manong, iandar mo na.
Driver: sorry sir, titigan niyo lang po uli si mam pag nakatulog uli
at sabihin niyo na (mimicking ivan) "god! she's really beautiful!"
Nagblush si ivan ..
he thought: hala, ano gagawin ko .. manong!!!! ang sarap mong .. ! nevermind.
Nagblush din si trish
she thought: tinitigan ako ni ivan?? baka naman gawa gawa lang ni manong yun.
Ivan: ahmm .. tricia, wag mo na lang sya pansinin. (ang torpe mo talaga ivan!)
Nakarating na ang dalawa sa bahay ni tricia.
nang nakababa na si tricia ..
Ivan: manong! salamat ha?!! pangungunahan mo pa ata ko eh!
Manong: ay naku sir! bahala kayo. nga pala, ang ganda ng gf niyo.
Ivan: she's not my gf
Manong: oh talaga? kung ako sa inyo liligawan ko na yan, sige kayo.. baka
maunahan pa kayo ng iba jan.
Tricia: IVAN!
Ivan: sige manong , ito na bayad.
Tricia: hmm .. thanks ivan ha? sorry pala kanina sa pagsusungit ko.
Ivan: no problem .. it ok. soooo .. see you tom sa rehearsals?
Tricia: ok cge. ingat ka!
Niyakap bigla ni ivan si tricia .. nagulat na naman si ivan sa ginawa niya at biglang umalis ..
Tricia: IVAN! TEKA LANG!
kinabahan si ivan
Ivan: i didn't mean to ..
Tricia: ano ka ba!! Yung kotse mo nakalimutan mo ..
Ivan: (nakakahiya) oo nga pala .. kunin ko na.
natawa na lang si tricia.namumula pa rin si ivan dahil sa hiya.
Chapter 7
at their rehearsal para sa SO.
Nagkita sila James at Tricia.
James: Sorry about yesterday tricia ..
Tricia: Forget it .. it's alright
James: so, what happened?
Tricia: what do you mean?
James: you and ivan..
Tricia: ha? ahmm. ayun ok lang.
James: happy?
Tricia: hmm.. yeah. pero i'll be happier if ikaw kasama ko.(touched james face)
James: Oh c'mon, i know you like ivan.
Tricia: You're wrong .. he's just a friend.
James: ...
Tricia: Ano ka ba! i don't like him ..
Narinig ni Ivan ang usapan ng dalawa..kanina pa nya pinakikinggan at tinitignan ang dalawa.
Ivan's mind: AWWWWW! ang sakit naman nun ..
(umalis na si ivan at ayaw ng marinig ang iba pang sasabihin ni tricia)
Nagpatuloy pa rin sila James at Tricia sa kanilang kwentuhan
James: DON'T DENY tricia .. action speaks louder than words.. napapansin ko yun. kakaiba ang smile mo pag kasama mo si ivan!
Tricia: ok i admit!, yesterday , i thought that i'm the happiest girl in the world..
James: see ?, you really like him. nadulas ka na!
Tricia: it's not what you think ..
James: uuuyyy .. super defensive! look at your face, it's red!
Tricia: Nasobrahan lang sa blush-on yan! naku, iwan na nga kita jan.
(umalis na si tricia but james is still teasing her)
Malungkot si ivan .. parang nagunaw ang mundo niya sa mga narinig niya.
"Bakit pa ko umaasa? she likes james .. face the reality ivan!"
sayang di narinig ni ivan ang buong kwentuhan nila James ..
Chapter 8
Sobrang nasaktan si Ivan .. he get the glass of wine and throw it.
Nagdabog siya. He can"t sleep, hindi niya lubos maisip na ganun pala kasakit ang magmahal.
Si tricia ang first love niya. Magkababata kasi sila.. everytime na may problema
si ivan ay kay tricia siya tumatakbo and vice-versa .. Matagal na siyang may
hidden feelings of love kay Tricia at natatakot siyang ipagtapat ito dahil baka
umiwas lamang ang babaeng pinakamamahal niya.
Ivan turned on his computer and browsed the picture of him and Tricia.
He is reminiscing the days na magkasama sila .. Hindi na napigilang
umiyak ni Ivan.
Ivan: Now I know you can't be mine trish .. Maybe it's time for me
to move on. It's hard but i'll try ..
Then, bigla niyang naalala ang text message ni James sa kanya nung nasa
Star City sila ..
James: Hey bro, take care of tricia okay? alis na kame.
Ivan: you sure? ambilis ata?
James: Now is your chance .. if you fail to tell her your feelings, uunahan na
talaga kita! ..
-----------------------
Nasaktan siya sa sinabi ni Tricia. She was his first love .. kahit na
madami siyang naging girlfriends, si tricia pa din ang gusto niya at tunay
niyang mahal pero hindi niya lang maamin dahil alam niyang may matindi
siyang karibal. Si Ivan .. ang pinsan niya. Kababata niya din si Tricia ..
Laging silang tatlo ang magkakasama dati pero napapansin niya ang closeness
ni Tricia at Ivan ..
Pumunta si Tricia sa New York nung 12 years old siya. Habang nasa NY si Tricia ay hindi pa
din napuputol ang communication ng 3. Bumalik si Tricia nung 18th bday
niya para dito magdebut sa Pilipinas .. Siya ang partner nito dahil maysakit si Ivan .. pero
alam niya naman na hindi siya ang gustong mkapareha ni Tricia.
Naramdaman niya iyon. Hindi siya manhid ..
Iniisip niya na dapat hindi niya na lang tinutukso si Tricia kay Ivan..
Nakatatak ang sinabi ni tricia sa utak niya: "Yesterday , i thought that i'm the happiest girl in the world.. "
James: I'll do anything to win your heart Tricia .. Hindi na ako magpapatalo!
---------------------
Bumalik siya ng Pilipinas ng malungkot , nalaman niyang hindi makakaattend
ng debut ang gusto niyang maka-escort ..
Bata pa lang siya gusto na niyang mag-artista .. Yun ang ultimate dream niya.
Kaya nung 18 years old na siya .. nag-audition siya sa ABSCBN kasama
ang dalawang lalaking mahalaga sa buhay niya .. nakapasa naman sila at
nailagay sa Shouout .. at laking gulat niya ng malamang ka-loveteam niya
ang lalaking pinakamamahal niya pero ang lagi niyang tinatanong sa utak niya:
"gusto din kaya niya ako?"
Pero may isa pa siyang problema .. meron ding isang lalaki na
nagpaparamdam sa kanya .. ang pinsan ng mahal niya.
Tricia thought: sorry james .. kaya di ko inaamin ang nararamdaman ko kay ivan.. ayoko kitang masaktan.
Chapter 9
Pinili na lang ni Ivan na iwasan si Tricia para hindi na madagdagan ang sakit
na nararamdaman niya.
As days passed .. napansin ito ni Tricia, even sa Shoutout prod nila, napansin niya din
na nawala ang spark sa mga mata ni Ivan na lagi niyang nakikita.Parang walang kabuhay-buhay
ang performances nila together. Lagi tuloy silang napagsasabihan nila direk alex and Mr.M.
Direk: Ivan, Tricia! Where's the kilig factor? more eye to eye contact! Ivan.. SMILE!
tsk.
Ivan: Sorry po direk alex.
(break)
Nilapitan ni trish si ivan..
Tricia: Is there any problem?
Ivan: ahh .. wala.
Tricia: Ba't di ka makatingin sakin ng diretso.
Ivan: wala, may iniisip lang ako.
Tricia: Ba't parang umiiwas ka?
Ivan: Hindi.. may iniisip lang talaga ako.
Tricia: ano naman yun?
Ivan: It's none of your business! (then he walked out)
Tricia: ANG SUNGIT mo naman!
(on her mind: Bakit ba sya ganyan? tsk. I need to find out!)
Pagkatapos ng SO, pinuntahan uli ni Trish si Ivan para
kulitin kung bakit parang nagiging cold siya sa kanya.
Tricia: Hey, can we talk?
Ivan: speak.
Tricia: Ano ba talagang problema mo??
IVan: Bakit ba masyadong big deal para sayo kung ano man
tong pinoporoblema ko?!
Tricia: Iniiwasan mo kasi ako eh!
Ivan: I told you a while ago na hindi nga kita iniiwasan!
Tricia: Naapektuhan na pati trabaho natin! Why are you like that?
Para kang bata! nakakaasar ka na!
Ivan: ako pa ha ang ganun???!! edi kung naasar ka sa'kin wag mo na
akong kausapin! wag ka nang lumapit sa'kin at ..
Tricia: at ano?!!! hindi ako titigil hangga't di mu sinasabi
problema mo!
Ivan: Gusto mo talagang malaman kung ano problema ko? IKAWW!
ikaw ang problema ko! You keep hurting me! Napakamanhid mo!
Tricia: di...kita...maintindihan.
Ivan: (shouts) EH KASI MANHID KA NGA! numb girl! GET LOST!!
(Tricia slapped Ivan's face)
Tricia: I can't believed this .. (tumakbo si trish palayo habang
umiiyak)
*Nakita ni James ang lahat ng nangyari. lumapoit siya kay IVan.
James: Why did you said that to her??!! (galit, tinulak niya si Ivan at
sinundan si Tricia)
James: TRICIAAAAA .., wait..
Ivan: ...... I didn't mean to ....
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:39 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:27 PM #56♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
By: Kapamilya06_24 / TRICIAFIERS
Writer’s notes:
This is a fictional story. I used the names of my favorite PBB Teen Clash 2010 housemates, but the characters are not based on them. This story is in no way intended to offend any of the housemates mentioned, as only their names were used as reference, and nothing more. Hence, I would not call it a fan fiction, for it is just a mere fictional story.
The whole story was written in a span of a few days. This is just my first draft. Some errors or inconsistencies might still be present. Pardon me for such mistakes.
Background
Ivan - the good kid, he is running the family business along side his father, believes in true love
Tricia - best friend of Ann, both Ann and Tricia believe that there's the right soul mate for everyone
Ann - best friend of Tricia, both Ann and Tricia believe that there's the right soul mate for everyone
James - Ivan's half brother, rebel who doesn't believe in true love
Devon - Ivan's and James' half sister, born and raised in the Philippines
Chapters 1-26
Chapter 1: It's hard to say goodbye
Ivan's mom died when he was just a baby. Their Filipina maid, Lillian Seron, treated him like her own, and gave Mr. Dorschner the best care that he fell in love with her.
Months passed, and a sudden knock on the household came. Two immigration officers greeted them and asked Lillian to come over to their office. They found out that Ms. Seron has been an illegal alien, a TNT. Lillian was deported to the Philippines, with her unborn child in her tummy, unknown to Mr. Dorschner. He did not have any means of communicating with Lillian. Mr. Dorschner cannot fathom the events that transpired.
Years have passed, and Ivan is now working in their family business. Mr. Dorschner has found new love which bore them a son, which they named James. Unlike Ivan, James is a rebel, does not want to inherit their business, and doesn't care about rules. He is the black sheep of the family, always getting into trouble.
In an effort to expand their business, Mr. Dorschner decided to go to the Philippines, bringing with him his new wife and two kids. They purchased a house where they can live for a few months while scouting for investors in their business venture in the Philippines. Through an agency, they hired maids and drivers as well.
When they entered the house, Mr. Dorschner saw a familiar figure sweeping the floors.
Chapter 2: The Return
Low and behold, it was Lillian. Mr. Dorschner cannot believe his eyes. Beside Lillian was Devon, also sweeping the floor for them. All workers immediately stopped upon the entrance of the family to the house. Lillian cannot believe her eyes. She was about to embrace Mr. Dorschner when she saw the new Mrs. Dorschner holding hands with him. She proceeded to bring the luggages to their respective rooms.
Mrs. Dorschner was feeling kinda hot, and decided to go take a shower. James and Ivan went to their room to get some rest. Mr. Dorschner was left alone with Lillian and Devon. Lillian said that she respects the presence of the new Mrs. Dorschner and that she forgot about their love. Mr. Dorschner asked "Who is this young girl?" to which Lillian replied "your daughter."
Mr. Dorschner was shocked to learn that he had a daughter. He hugged Devon but Devon did not feel anything, growing up knowing about the story, but with a kind step father. He did not want Mr. Dorschner to interfere with the family that she already has.
Mrs. Dorschner came out of the shower and saw this. She went down the stairs, her eyes glaring at Lillian and Devon.
Chapter 3: I don't think we need this
All three were shocked to see Mrs. Dorschner proceeding down the stairs. Her glare was cutting through their bodies.
Mrs. Dorschner: "So is she Lillian, your FORMER love?"
Mr. Dorschner: "Yes, she is. I, I..."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Shh, no need to say anything. I understand."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Hi Lillian. My husband has told me of your existence. Call me Betty. We shall be friends, unless you do anything stupid for me to take out all your hair."
Lillian: "Ma.......aaam..., I...."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Betty. Call me Betty. And who's she?"
Lillian: "My daughter, Betty"
Mr. Dorschner: "Our daughter, apparently. She claims that Devon here is my daughter"
Devon: "I don't think I need you anyway."
Lillian: "Oh don't be such a hard head. Give respect to your father and Betty."
Mrs. Dorschner: "It's okay Betty. I know this must come as a shock to Devon. It also is to Harold here, and myself."
Lillian: "I did not mean to keep this from anyone. I didn't know I was pregnant then when I was deported. I didn't have any means of contacting Harold here."
Lillian: "Please forgive Devon here. She knew about the story all along, but her step father has been too kind and loving of her."
Mrs. Dorschner: "I understand. No worries. JUST don't cross any boundaries, and we will be okay, Lillian. Devon?"
Ivan and James went down from their room. They heard the whole story from their room. Apparently, everything can be heard in their house. Mrs. Dorschner informed James and Ivan of their half-sister, Devon, which Ivan easily welcomed. James, however, was a different story.
James: "I don't think we need this. These maids will just interfere with my life. I want to drive my own car. I don't think I need a driver."
Harold: "No. Ivan will drive with you to work."
James: "Work? No way!"
Betty: "School then. You will go to a Summer Enrichment Class."
James rolls his eyes.
Ivan: James and I will just go to the SCHOOL then.
Chapter 4: Action-Reaction
Ivan: "Mom told me about you going to school. They figured you wouldn't want to go to work, so they decided to enroll you to a summer class instead."
James: "Why didn't you tell me? And I thought you're my brother. Dude!"
Ivan: "Hey, you brought this to yourself. Being the rebel that you are... Don't worry. I'll bring you to school. I'll also be the one to pick you up."
James rolls his eyes
They arrived at the school. They proceeded to the information desk, and Ivan enrolled James to a Physics class, to advance him for the coming semester. He's a few days late so he has to catch up with the readings. They were on their way back when they saw a group of dancers .
Ann is the leader of the dance troupe. They practice all day long, even during the summer months, for the National championships. They have always come up short, winning 2nd place for three consecutive years. Now on her 4th and final year in High School, Ann vows to make her team win this time.
When practice was over, Ann went to the side, to this nerd-looking girl reading her Physics book. It's Tricia, Ann's nerdy best friend who heads the Science Club. She's in school for a summer enrichment class in Physics, which has just finished an hour earlier. She was waiting for Ann to finish rehearsals for her dance troupe.
Ann: "That was an intense routine! I'm sooo exhausted!"
Tricia nods.
Ann: "Oh, and the sun is excruciatingly painful to the arms! I'm getting suburnt! Ugh!"
Tricia nods.
Ann: "Trish, are you even listening to me? My God, YOU are such a nerd."
Tricia: "I'm sorry Ann. I was so preoccupied with Newton's laws. For an action, there's always an opposite and equal reaction!"
Ann: "Blah blah. I don't need that!"
Tricia: "Oh Ann, I'm getting dizzy. This heat is really taking its toll on me"
Ann: "Let's get going then. You might pass out soon."
Ann and Tricia were walking so swiftly that they bumped into James and Ivan. One guy accidentally kissed Tricia in a split second. Tricia's books fell on the ground. Both guys picked up the books when Tricia suddenly fainted.
Chapter 5: The Kiss
Ivan immediately carried Tricia and brought her to the car. James got hold of the books and followed his brother. Ann followed them to the car as well. Ivan laid down Tricia to the back of the car.
Ivan: "Miss, miss, are you okay? Maybe you need some cold air."
Ann: "Bes, what's wrong? Are you okay?"
After a few minutes, with Ann fanning Tricia, Tricia woke-up.
Tricia: "Where am I? Am I in heaven? Why are there handsome men around me?"
Ann: "Oh Trish you got me worried! Are you ok?"
Ivan: "Miss, you fainted. I brought you to my car for you to have some cold air."
Tricia: "Oh. OH! I am so sorry sir. I didn't mean to faint. I'm really sorry."
Ivan: "It's okay miss. My name's Ivan."
Ann stands up: "And I'm Ann. Hi... She's Tricia, my best friend."
Ann shook the hands of Ivan. Ivan shook the hands of Ann and Tricia. Ann went on to James to shake his hands:
Ann: "And your name is?"
James: "James."
Ann to herself: "Ohh, feisty."
Ivan: "Tricia, Ann, I guess I better bring you to your houses. Where do you live?"
Ann: "Oh, we live in..."
Tricia: "Oh it's okay, no need to bring us. We can go home on our own."
Ann: "But Trish! EHEM!"
Ivan: "Miss, I insist. I'll bring you two home."
Ann: "Okay! Let's go to my house then. Trish lives next door anyway."
Ivan drove Ann and Tricia to Ann's house. Ivan can't help but smile at the sight of the two pretty girls. James noticed this as he remained quiet in the car. Nothing new about that as he is always quiet with new people around. What's different perhaps is his blushing cheeks. He was smirking from time to time. Ivan noticed this.
Ann: "Goodbye Ivan! Bye James..."
Ann to Tricia: "Oh that James is quite scary. Did you see his face???"
Tricia: "Thank you, Ivan and James."
Tricia to Ann: "Yeah, I was a bit scared. And..."
Chapter 6: Who's who?
Over at Ann's House:
Tricia: "And I think I got kissed."
Ann: "WHAT?!?! Your virgin lips!"
Tricia: "Hey, don't be OA!"
Ann: "But who?"
Tricia: "That's the thing. I don't know. It happened so fast that I didn't know who among Ivan or James accidentally kissed me."
Ann: "Is that why you fainted? Oh, and don't think I missed your comment about them being handsome, and you being in heaven!"
Tricia: "Did I say that? That's so embarrassing!"
In Ivan's car:
Ivan: "What's wrong dude? What's with your smirk?"
James: "What's with your smile?"
Ivan: "Oh I asked first, brother. So you answer first."
James: "No I won't."
Ivan: "You're really such a brat."
James rolls his eyes.
Ivan: "Those girls are really pretty. I can't believe that we'll see such beautiful faces on our first day! Score man!"
James: "Is that really you?"
Ivan: "Sorry, I just can't believe our luck! So what's with your sudden happiness?"
James: "Oh same."
Ivan: "Is that really all?"
James: "Yes."
Ivan: "Oh really? Why is it that..."
James: "Drop it."
Back in Ann's house:
Ann: "Tricia, why don't you stay overnight? So you can tell me more!"
Tricia: "Ann, that's all I've got to say."
Ann: "But the feelings you have for this mystery guy. The feeling of getting kissed."
Tricia: "Fine. But I've got homework to do first."
In the Dorschner residence:
Ivan informed his stepmom that James is already enrolled in school. Lillian prepared dinner for the family. While the boys were away, Betty and Lillian got to talk, and Betty felt the hardships that Lillian experienced, living as a domestic helper in Hong Kong, before going home and working for the Dorschner's (without Lillian knowing that it was really them who she'll be working for). Harold talked to Devon to apologize, which Devon blandly received.
Ivan went to the veranda and looked at the scenery behind their house. The Marikina Valley looked beautiful. Ivan smiled, and touched his lips.
James went to his shared room and sat on his bed. He smiled, and touched his lips.
Chapter 7: Physics Class
It was time for James’ first Physics Class. He sat beside Tricia, being the only person he knows. The professor began a barrage of questions. Being the nerd girl that she is, Tricia swiftly answered all questions. The professor, getting used to only Tricia answering, decided to deviate from his norm, and decided to ask each student, one at a time. Everyone somehow managed to answer the professor’s questions.
It was now James’ turn. He was supposed to read the previous night, but he can’t take his mind off something else. He ended up not reading up on the lessons he missed. He failed to answer the professor’s question.
Prof.: “James, it doesn’t mean that you’re new here that I will exempt you from the lessons you missed.”
James: “I’m sorry Prof. I promise to read up tonight.”
Prof.: “This is a fast-paced class, and I want you to catch-up fast. I’m assigning Tricia here to be your partner. Tricia, make sure he catches up quick.”
Tricia: “But sir…”
Prof.: “No buts.”
Tricia: <sigh>
The bell rang. Tricia left the class in haste. James quickly followed.
James: “I’m really sorry that you got into this predicament. It’s my fault. You can opt not to do this.”
Tricia: “No. I always follow the orders of my teachers.”
James: “Playing the good student card ei?”
Tricia: “What are you saying?”
James: “Nothing.”
James tailed Tricia until they got to Ann’s Dance Troupe’s practice. James sat beside Tricia, staring at her. Tricia stared back.
Tricia: “What’s your problem? Why are you staring at me?”
James: “Oh, sorry. It’s nothing.”
James touched his lips momentarily when Tricia grabbed his arm.
Tricia: “Let’s go to the library. We still have 1 hour before Ann finishes her practice.”
James: “Ok. My brother won’t get here until that time either.”
Tricia: “We’re going to study the past days’ lectures tonight. Are you free?”
James: “Yes. Would you mind if we have our study date in my house instead? I’ll ask my brother to bring you home.”
Tricia: “Date? What date???”
James: “No, I meant STUDY date.”
Tricia: “Oh. Ok, I don’t mind. But Ann…”
James: “She can come with us. I’m sure she’d love to.”
James and Tricia went to the library and they started studying.
Chapter 8: Timelessness
It was 5 PM, and there’s no sign of James nor Tricia. Ann decided to go out of the school when she saw Ivan.
Ann: “Hey Ivan. Waiting for James?”
Ivan: “Oh yes. I’m his driver for the whole duration of our stay here, being the one of legal age.”
Ann: “Oh. Why are you here by the way?”
Ivan: “Well, dad wanted to do some expansion of our business, and we decided to have a vacation here as well, for a good three months.”
Ann: “So you’ll be here for three months huh? How’s the Philippines so far for you?”
Ivan: “It’s rather hot here. We met our surprise half sister, whose mom is working for us as a househelp.”
Ann: “SURPRISE half-sister?”
Ivan: “Yeah. Dad always told us and mom, actually my step mom, that he once had a Filipina woman whom he loved. The poor woman got deported from the US, and no one knew that her an dad had a child. Not even dad knew.”
Ann: “Wow. That’s one hell of a surprise.”
Ivan: “You got that right. Somehow we got to accept her easily. We kinda expected that there might be another one of us, based on dad’s story of his Filipina lover.”
James and Tricia lost track of time. It was half past five when the librarian told them that it’s closing time already. They hurriedly went down to the school entrance to find Ann and Ivan, waiting for them.
James and Tricia: “We’re sorry!”
James: “We were studying at the library.”
Ivan: “YOU, studying?”
James: “The teacher asked Tricia here to tutor me, so I can catch up.”
Tricia: “I’m sorry bes!”
Ann: “It’s okay bes. Lucky you Ivan here was a nice guy to talk to.”
James: “Tricia will be going with me tonight, to finish up the tutoring. I hope you don’t mind, Ann.”
Ivan: “She can come with us if she wants to.”
Ann: “Oh really? Maybe we can go to my house first so we can change our clothes, before going to your house.”
Ivan: “That’s cool.”
So off they went to Ann’s house. Tricia and Ann changed clothes, and brought some more, thinking that they might get to go overnight. After all, James had got a lot of catching up to do.
Chapter 9: A Family Affair
Upon arrival at the boys’ home, Harold and Betty Dorschner greeted them, asking who the girls are. James explained the circumstances to both, and both felt that the girls are nice people. The couple welcomed the girls to their house, and asked Lillian to cook for more. Meanwhile, Ann saw a familiar figure in the kitchen.
James and Tricia went to the boys’ room to study. Meanwhile, Ivan can’t seem to fathom the idea of leaving James and Tricia alone in a room, so he decided to stay in the room as well, together with Ann. With nothing to do, Ann and Ivan decided to continue their conversation from a while ago.
Ann: “So how do you feel that you got a new sister?”
Ivan: “I’m not too thrilled. But it’s ayt.”
Ann: “Where is she btw?”
Ivan: “Well, she’s downstairs, with her mom. Perhaps at the kitchen.”
James: “For the love of God, I’m trying to study here. With your nonchalant talking, I cannot concentrate nor can I hear Tricia’s voice. So please, step out of the room, now.”
Ann: “Bes, I’ll just go out of the room. Sorry James. I really am, sorry.”
Ivan: “James, keep your cool.”
James pushed Ivan and Ann out of the room and closed the door.
Ann: “So you mean, Devon is your half sister? I CANNOT believe it. Really!”
Ivan: “How’d you know her?”
Ann: “Well, she’s this girl in our school. Not my friend, but she’s in my squad.”
Ivan: “So she’s a great dancer?”
Ann: “You can say that.”
Ivan brought Ann to the living room and sat there with her, watching TV. Moments later, Harold called his son for a short talk on business. Feeling alone, Ann texted Tricia.
Ann (text): “Bes, what’s taking so long?”
Tricia (text): “We’re halfway there. Sorry bes!”
Seeing this, James got hold of Tricia’s phone.
James: “Let’s focus on this so we can finish quickly. I don’t want to get hold of you for so long.”
James placed the cellphone in his back pocket. An hour has passed, and they’re still not done. Ann went up and knocked on the boys’ room.
James shouted “We’re not yet done!”
Ann shouted back “Your mom’s calling you over for dinner. Maybe you should stop studying and take a bite first.”
James opened the door, smiled at Ann, and went down the stairs. Tricia soon went out of the room.
Ann: “Bes, are you ok? You look sick.”
Tricia: “Yes, a bit tired. I had to start from scratch. He DOES NOT know ANYTHING about Physics, AT ALL!”
Ann: “You can do this friend! I know you can. Remember, you never back down from any challenge. Remember that.”
The two girls soon followed James, and had dinner with the family. Betty called on Lillian and Devon to eat with them, being part of the family. They were hesitant at first, but Betty insisted, making them feel like they really belong.
Chapter 10: One Clumsy Girl
Dinner’s over, and Tricia and James went back to the room to finish the tutoring. Ann insisted on going with them to room. Ivan soon followed to get some papers for this father.
As they were entering the room, Tricia slipped and got hold of James’ arms. James landed on top of Tricia, and with their face near each other’s, Tricia had a sudden flashback of the kiss. Ivan, looking disturbed, ran towards them, and helped Tricia stand-up. James briefly touched his lips. Seeing this, Ann pulled Tricia aside.
Ann: “Did he kiss you?”
Tricia: “Hell no! I wouldn’t let him!”
Ann: “Then why is he touching his lips?”
Tricia: “I don’t know about this strange man.”
Tricia and James proceeded with their study, with Ann constantly texting someone else. After about an hour of studying, at 9 PM, they finally finished, much to Ann’s relief.
James: “Thank you so much Tricia! Thanks for your patience.”
Tricia: “It’s nothing, really.”
James gave Tricia a hug, as Ivan was passing by. He somehow ran to the room, and went inside, which startled James, Ann and Tricia.
Ivan: “What’s happening here?”
Tricia: “Oh, nothing. We just finished studying.”
Ann: “Yeah, FINALLY. After ten years, they’re done.”
Ivan: “I guess I better drive you home now, Tricia. And Ann.”
Ivan: “On second thought, it’s quite late. Why don’t you stay here for the night. The both of you. We have a guest room anyway.”
Tricia: “But Ann’s mom might worry. She’s in charge for the both of us right now as my parents are in Davao.”
Ann: “Don’t worry bes, I’ve got it covered.”
Ivan: “See Trish? You don’t have to worry about anything!”
As Ivan was escorting Tricia and Ann to their room, Tricia again slipped, and this time got hold of Ivan’s arms. Ivan fell on top of Tricia, and once again, Tricia had a flashback of the kiss.
James ran towards the two, but Ivan already helped himself and Tricia up.
Ivan: “You slipped twice today. You’re one clumsy girl Trish.”
Tricia: “I am not!”
Tricia almost slipped again. Good think Ann was there beside her.
Ivan: “See what I mean?”
Ann, Tricia and Ivan giggled. Ann looked back, and saw James glaring.
Chapter 11: Confusion
In his mind, James was asking himself:
James: “What is wrong with me? Am I jealous at them? Why am I feeling this way? Why…”
When suddenly, he was interrupted. Ivan entered the room.
Ivan: “James, what’s wrong?”
James: “I don’t know. We’ve only met them for a day and yet I’m feeling something already.”
Ivan: “James, get hold of yourself. Don’t act like a playboy again.”
Ivan left James in their room for a while. Overhearing what has transpired, Ann knocked on James’ room, and entered, leaving the door open. Ivan saw Tricia approaching and decided to wait for her.
Ann: “Hey James. What’s with the pouty face?”
James: “Nothing.”
Ann: “You look like someone has robbed you of something special.”
James: “Perhaps.”
Ann: “Don’t worry, there’s more to life than lost opportunities.”
James: “Wow, that’s rather new. Haven’t heard that from anyone yet.”
Ann: “And that’s because you met me just recently.”
James and Ann laughed. Ivan and Tricia veered their attention towards the open door.
Tricia: “They seem to be having fun.”
Ivan: “You bet they are. Don’t worry, I’ll make your night even more fun.”
Ivan brought Tricia out to their veranda, and showed her the Marikina valley at night. With all those lights, the valley was luminous, and beautiful. It was as if the whole valley was filled with differently-colored fireflies soaring through the skies. Tricia texted Ann to go down quickly.
Tricia: “This is so beautiful!”
Ivan: “Just like yourself.”
Tricia: “Why, thank you, Ivan.”
Ivan: “But you really are.”
Tricia blushed at this. She never thought she’d hear these words uttered by anyone.
Ivan: “Perhaps if you let go of this clip, and the headband. There.”
James saw all this as Ann had asked him to go down to meet Tricia at the veranda. He felt a certain tingling in his tummy, a certain tear in his heart. What could it be?
Chapter 12: We’re Brothers after all
The girls stayed at the Dorschner residence overnight. In the morning, as James was still asleep, Ivan drove Tricia and Ann to Ann’s house, where he met with Ann’s mom and Tricia’s parents. They were pleased at the hospitality of the Dorschners.
As Ivan was leaving Ann’s house, he got a call from James.
James (on the phone): “Why did you leave without me?”
Ivan: “You were soundly asleep so I thought it would be best not to wake you up.”
James: “And you would know better, right. Maybe you did this on purpose.”
Ivan: “No, I did not. Why would you think of such a thing? We’re brothers for heaven’s sake!”
James: “Yeah right. Whatever dude.”
When Ivan got home, he immediately went up to his shared room.
Ivan: “What’s wrong with you James? You were never like that to me. We were best buds!”
James: “And I thought you’re my big brother.”
Ivan: “Well, yes I am!”
An awkward silence ensued.
James: “I’m sorry. I’m out of my mind these past few days. First, learning about Devon. Then meeting these girls. I don’t even know what I’m feeling right now. I’m a bit overwhelmed. I’m sorry, bro.”
Ivan: “James, you know you can always talk to me. We’re brothers. You can tell me everything.”
James then proceeded to tell Ivan of his feelings, on learning about their half sister, about her feelings for the two girls, one of them being her crush. James felt that this is too much for a few days.
The weekend has passed, and it’s Monday again. Ivan and James went on with their normal routine. Ivan brought James to school, and proceeded to work. James went to class with Tricia, and waited with her until 5 PM, when Ann’s practice finishes. Ivan arrives not a second later to pick them all up.
The friendship between the four of them, and their parents for that matter, deepened.
Chapter 13: Jealousy
The Dorschners are in the country for three weeks now. Harold Dorschner is having a difficulty locating an investor for his business expansion project. Devon, forced by Lillian to work for the Dorschners amidst being a daughter of Harold’s, is still reluctant to accept the truth about her real father.
Amidst her disbelief, Betty Dorschner accepted Devon as her step daughter, much like how she accepted Ivan as her step son. She has made sure that there’s nothing going on between her husband and Lillian, even going the distance of befriending Lillian.
Ivan had no problems dealing with his new step sister. After all, he had the same feeling when Betty entered his life as his new step mom. He felt overjoyed in getting a brother, in the person of James. He seems to have no problem in having an additional member of their family.
Perhaps it’s James who’s having the hardest time accepting the truth. Being the rebel that he is, he always contradicts whatever his parents want him to do. With his parents and brother readily accepting Devon, he was rude to Devon, asking her to cook for him every now and then, and making her clean his room everyday, much to Devon’s chagrin.
As Devon was cleaning the boys’ room, she saw a folded bond paper on one of the tables. She opened it and read:
Dear Tricia,
I couldn’t keep my eyes off you. Ever since we met, my mind has just been full of you. You have made my life brighter. Each day I’m with you, I feel refreshed. Ever since that time when our lips momentarily joined, amidst it being a mere accident, I couldn’t resist you anymore. I think I’m falling for you, Tricia. Please be mine.
The letter ended without any trace of who wrote it. Was it James or Ivan?
Devon decided to keep the letter. Tricia, being Ann’s bestfriend, and Ann as the leader of Dance Troupe, Devon felt she can use the letter as leverage against Ann. She wanted to be the Dance Troupe leader. In her eyes, Ann’s persistence and status in life made her the leader of the group. In her eyes, even if she’s the better dancer, due to her being poor, she can never be the Troupe leader.
James and Ivan were back home, and they immediately went to their room. Moments later, James went down to the kitchen and asked “Has anyone seen a bond paper folded in half? I left it on my table earlier today.” Fearing he will get angry, no one dared to answer James’s question. James, in an angry mood, hastily left the kitchen and went back in his room.
Not a second later, Ivan went to the kitchen and asked the same line
Ivan: “Has anyone seen a bond paper folded in half? It was just in my room earlier today.”
Lillian: “What is it that you are looking for, iho?”
Ivan: “Oh, it’s something rather important to me. And I can’t seem to find it.”
Devon: “Mom, I need some help here. Mom…”
Lillian: “Wait a sec. Devon. Don’t worry Ivan. You’ll surely find it. It’s just here, somewhere. I’m sure of that. I’ll help you find it.”
Ivan: “You’re really the best Yaya Lillian.”
Lillian: “Anything for you, Ivan.”
Devon felt a sudden rush of jealousy and anger. How can her own mother put a stranger first before her? She vowed not to return the folded paper she got.
Chapter 14: One Hot Summer Day
Ivan and James spent the whole night looking for their missing papers. But to no avail. They can’t find what they’re looking for.
It was 7 AM when suddenly the doorbell rang. Ivan opened the door. It was Ann and Tricia. They were ready for the camping trip this weekend. Harold and Betty invited them for a weekend up the hills of Mt. Makiling, along with their sons, Lillian and Devon. Yolly, Ann’s mom, was supposed to join them but she suddenly fell ill and decided it would be best for her to stay home.
They got to their camp site by 11 AM. Harold, Ivan and James volunteered to set-up the tents. Betty, Lillian and Devon set-off to look for firewood.
Ann: “Trish, I don’t think I’d be able to help setting up these tents. You should go do that. I’ll go with Devon here, to look for more food and wood.”
Tricia: “But Ann…”
Ann winks. “Remember, the… kiss <whispers>”
Tricia: “Shhhh! Ann!”
Harold: “Tricia, you better start setting-up your tent. My tent is good. I’m going to do Lillian’s and Devon’s next.”
Ivan: “We’re almost done with ours too, dad!”
The sun was shining brightly, and Ivan and James were feeling hot. They removed their upper garment while finishing their tent. Meanwhile, Tricia can’t seem to even start. She has no idea on what she’s doing. For someone so smart, this has got to be frustrating for her.
The firewood girls are back, bringing with them wood for burning and some fruits for them to eat.
Ann: “Trish, I think we’ve been gone for more than an hour and yet you’re still not done?”
Tricia: “I’m sorry Ann. I’m just clueless about this. Ugh!”
Ann: “You’re missing the view, sister.”
Tricia: “The what?”
Ann: “I mean, the scenery. Look at those trees, and the beautiful sun!”
Ann: “Oh my God, they’re coming this way. They’re coming this way!!!”
Tricia: “Who?”
Ivan: “Hello girls. Seems like you’re having some difficulty with your tent, Trish.”
Tricia looks back, and is startled. “I… I… No. I’m okay.”
James: “Get out of the way. You’re such a slowpoke.”
Tricia stands up and pinches James’ arms “I am NOT! Jerk!”
Ivan: “James. Get a hold of yourself. That’s not right.”
Ivan and James finished the girls’ tent before sunset. Lillian has cooked dinner for the group. During dinner, James kept on teasing Tricia. Teasing her about class, about being a nerd among things. Ivan constantly scolded his brother and reminded him to straighten up. By 9 PM, Harold, Betty and Lillian went to bed. After cleaning up, Devon went inside their tent as well. Not long after, Tricia and Ann decided to call it a night.
Ivan: “I don’t know what to make of today. We’re here in the Philippines for work, and yet dad and I can’t seem to find any.”
James: “Oh, I’m here to find girls, and nothing more. Seems like I’ve got two waiting for me.”
Ivan: “Don’t be such an *** James. They’re our friends. Better respect them.”
Ivan left James alone outside. James was thinking to himself. Why did he say all those things? All-day long, he has not done any good to Tricia. James fell asleep outside their tent.
At 2 AM, a sudden ring was heard from Harold’s phone. It was Joe calling, Devon’s brother. He said that something has happened to his dad that Devon and Lillian need to go home immediately. Harold woke Betty, Lillian and Devon up.
Harold: “Anyone with a piece of paper?”
Perhaps not yet fully awake, Devon gave the folded bond paper he got from the boys’ room. The letter read:
Ivan,
Joe, Devon’s brother, called up. Something has happened and we needed to get home. You’ll be in charge. Incidentally, I found the manuscript I asked you to keep. It’s in my office. Don’t worry about it anymore.
Love,
Dad
The four of them quietly packed-up, getting only their personal things and tent, leaving all the food behind. They were very careful not to wake-up James, who was sleeping near the fire pit.
Please re-read Chapter 14. I added an additional line, which is important to the story
Chapter 15: The Lost Sheep
5:30 AM: The first strokes of sunlight began hitting the ground. James woke up as the sun’s rays were right on his eyes. He saw a familiar piece of paper near the fire pit. The wind suddenly blew and the paper is almost atop the fire pit. James sprang up from his dirt bed and caught the piece of paper right before it got burned. James uttered to himself: “Good catch my boy!”
He read the paper as he is holding it now. It’s a letter from their dad to Ivan. James decided to leave it near their tent so Ivan can read it when he wakes up.
James went out for a walk, thinking it would be best to look for fresh fruits so the girls can have something refreshing to eat.
5:45 AM: James still cannot find a fruit-bearing tree. He decided to go deeper into the woods. Armed with a bolo, he felt he would be safe. After all, the sun has already risen.
6:00 AM: Finally, James saw a mango tree. As he was trying to pick up fresh mango from the tree, he slipped, down the slope. The soil was moist, and he could not find anywhere to hold on to. He ended up rolling down the slope, and into a shallow cave, just enough to give him shelter. He’s injured, and he cannot walk up by himself.
7:00 AM: Ivan woke-up, and saw the letter written by his dad, putting him in charge of the camp. He then saw the reverse of the letter, written by his brother James to Tricia. He cannot believe that James has actually fallen in love with the girl he is eying. After all, James does not believe in love, or so he thought.
7:10 AM: Ivan went out of their tent, and saw the girls cooking corned beef. The three of them ate, and Ivan explained the circumstances as to why the adults and Devon are gone. All three were wondering where James is.
7:30 AM: Tricia and Ann cleaned up their utensils, leaving behind a handful for James.
7:45 AM: Tricia insisted that they look for James. He might be in trouble. Ann agreed.
Chapter 16: An Unprecedented Mistake
As they were preparing to leave camp, Ann found the piece of paper near the boys’ tent. He read the letter actually written by James for Tricia. She immediately concluded that it was written by Ivan, with the remarkable depth in character, and the seeming maturity in the tone of the letter. She could not have been any more wrong.
With this idea of Ivan confessing his love for Tricia through a letter, and being Tricia’s first, albeit accidental, kiss, solidified in her mind, Ann has come up with a plan. She let Tricia and Ivan go ahead in search for James. She’ll just follow, from a distance, to give time for Ivan to make his move. She felt she’s doing the right thing for her best friend. And James could be hers. Oh how the stars seem to align together, in her mind.
8:00 AM: Tricia lead the search for James. Ivan was trailing, but Ann, putting her plan to action, pushed Ivan to go ahead.
Ivan: “Are you sure you’re okay bringing in the rear, Ann?”
Ann: “Oh don’t worry about me. I’ll be here. I’ll shout if I run into any problems! Promise. Go ahead!”
Ivan: “If you say so.”
Ivan and Tricia began talking, perhaps to pass time, or to not feel just how tiring their hike is. One can hear laughs from time to time, much to Ann’s happiness. She’s happy for her bes, and feels the kilig of Ivan being Tricia’s first kiss.
Tricia: “I didn’t know it would be fun talking to you, Ivan. I know it seems weird. We’re all worried for James, and it might not be the right time to laugh, but you do make me laugh, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Well, maybe it’s just that you spend so much time with James, in summer class and tutoring, that we got no time to talk, when you’re hanging out in our house.”
Tricia: “Ann told me about your story, when we talk late at night. You two seem to be getting closer.”
Ivan: “Uhm, I guess Ann and I are closer than you and I, mainly because you’re busy with James.”
Tricia: “Busy with James?”
Ivan: “Yeah.”
Tricia: “Are you jealous of my time with your brother that you don’t have solo time with him anymore?”
Ivan laughs: “What are you talking about? No, it’s not that. I’m merely saying that we don’t get much time to get to know each other that much, until today. I guess from now on, you’ll make time for me?”
Tricia suddenly slipped. Ivan got hold of her arms, saving her from falling to the depths of the slopy hills. Ann rushed to the two.
Ann: “Bes! Are you okay? Thank heavens Ivan here is strong and mighty to save you. Oh, much like the prince saving Snow White from eternal stupor with a kiss.”
Ensuring that Tricia’s safe, Ivan pulled Ann aside.
Ivan: “Ann, did you happen to read the letter?”
Ann: “Oh this? <showing him the letter written by James>”
Ivan: “Yes, that.”
Ann: “Yes, I did! So you’re Tricia’s accidental kiss ei?”
Tricia: “Guys, guys, I think I hear someone screaming! Come quick!”
Even before Ivan can utter another word, both him and Ann rushed to Tricia’s side.
Ivan: “Where did you hear the screams?”
Tricia: “Somewhere there! <pointing to her left>”
Ivan: “Ok. Here are flares. You girls go there <pointing to the left>, while I’ll go the other way. If you found James, or you simply couldn’t find your way back, light a flare. I’ll come your way.”
Ann: “Maybe Ivan, you should go with Tricia. I’ll go there <pointing to the right>. It’s the main path anyway. I’ll surely be able to find my way back.”
Ivan: “Are you sure about this?”
Tricia: “Bes, you sure?”
Ann: “I’m positive. I helped Yaya Lillian and your mom find fruits right? I’ve walked this way yesterday. I’ll bring some flares, just to be safe.”
Ivan: “Set your watches. If in an hour we don’t find James, we go back to the camp, and call for help.”
Ann: “Okay! You guys take care. I can handle this!”
Chapter 17: Separate Paths
Tricia: “So you and James are half brothers right? Doesn’t that fact disturb you a bit? It isn’t that easy to accept someone new in your life, let alone someone who isn’t your full-blood brother.”
Here I go again, over-thinking, over-sharing. Maybe Ivan here will get turned off by me. James hates me. He stares at me everytime we meet, as if I did something wrong to him. And now here I go ruining it with Ivan.
Ivan: “No, it doesn’t bother me. I have accepted the fact that dad moved on quite quickly. James is my half brother. We share the same dad. And mom has been great to me. She treated me like her own.”
It’s a good thing that Ivan here doesn’t mind my constant questioning. He’s so kind and handsome. Nice and cute. Gentle and… perfect. I may be a nerd, but I surely know how to look at a guy. Ivan is just perfect. How I wish he would like me. But he seems to fancy Ann more than me. And Ann, well. Her stories are just full of boys.
*Flashback to the Dorschner’s first two weeks in the Philippines: At Ann’s House*
Ann: “Bes! Did you see how James stared at us today? His eyes are just heavenly.”
Tricia: “He stared at us? He’s freaky. In class, he always bugs me about the lessons being taught.”
Ann: “He does? Quite freaky indeed. But his brother, he’s just so kind.”
Tricia: “And handsome.”
Ann: “Bes, is that you? Did you just say that he’s handsome?”
Tricia: “Well, he is. Anyway, I often see the two of you talking while waiting for me and James finish with the tutoring.”
Ann: “He’s such a good conversationalist. You know, he can make you feel at ease almost instantly.”
Tricia: “Really? I haven’t really had the chance to get to know him.”
Ann: “Oh he’s the nicest guy in the world, Trish! He’s an angel sent from above!”
*End of Flashback*
I love Ann. She brings out the best in me. Ann has been my best friend since the third grade, and her family has been my extended family since then. My parents are always in Davao for our business, and I’m usually left alone in my house. Ann always invites me over, whenever my parents are out. She’s such a great friend. And well, she seems to like Ivan a lot, and no matter how much I like Ivan, I won’t compromise my friendship with Ann. I’ll let this tingling feeling I have for Ivan go. There are many fish in the sea. And I don’t think I’m ready for that anyway.
Ivan: “Trish? Trish? Are you ok?”
Tricia: “…”
Ivan: “Did I say anything wrong? Trish? Hello?”
Tricia: “Oh, oh, I’m so sorry. I’m just thinking about something.”
Ivan: “James again?”
Tricia: “Huh?”
Ivan: “Don’t worry. I get it. You’re worried about James. It’s fine.”
Why is Ivan acting weird all of a sudden? Did I do anything wrong
Ivan: “Oh what the heck. We’re with another Y path. I think we should go this way. <pointing to the left>”
Tricia: “You sure about that? I feel that James is somewhere here <pointing to the right>. I have a strong feeling about this.”
The path to the right is very steep, filled with thorny bushes and gloomy trees. The path to the left is less treacherous, filled with tall, fruit-bearing trees.
Ivan: “No. I’m pretty sure he’s not there. He won’t be that stupid to go to dangerous paths.”
Tricia: “If you say so.”
Did we make the right choice?
Chapter 18: Lost
Oh my God! Where am I? I can’t believe that in my fascination of true love that I let myself go by myself in this stupid, stinky, scary forest!
*Flashback*
Ever since I was a child, I have always believed in true love. I know that there’s a prince charming waiting for me out there. Someone who will truly love me and never let go of me. Someone unlike my father, who left mom when I was still a baby.
Mom has said a thousand times that she loved dad. She always told me to never hold grudges against him for leaving us. Mom always said that dad has reasons in doing so. And I always believed that. I never questioned what mom told me.
Dad always visited us, from time to time. He remained single all these years. And so I thought that maybe he still loves mom. I had this idea that dad just left us not because he loved someone else, but mainly due to my grandparents, who never faced us. Maybe that’s the reason for all this.
Just this summer, as Trish and I were going to the mall, to buy her Physics book and my new dress, I saw dad. I thought of running towards him to give him a hug, when I saw a girl, not much older than I was, with him. I decided to follow them. Is this dad’s new girl? Replacing mom, for someone my age? That’s just crazy!
Trish and I followed them. They entered Pancake House, and met this woman, a little younger than mom. Tricia and I hid behind this stall right in front of Pancake House. Dad gave the woman a kiss. And I read from the young girl’s mouth that she called dad “Papa”.
My almost perfect world crumbled. Dad has another family, and has a child that’s almost my age. So that’s the reason why dad left us. Then why would mom say that I shouldn’t get angry at dad? Won’t mom feel cheated that dad has another child the same age as I am?
I confronted mom when I got home. She finally confessed the truth. She’s the other woman. She let dad go to be with the woman he truly loves. Mom knows that what she had with dad is just a fling, and no matter what she does, she will always be the other woman. That’s it and there’s nothing more she can do.
*End of Flashback*
Good thing my bestfriend Tricia was there with me, to be a shoulder to cry on, to be the strong force in those trying times. And inasmuch as I became disillusioned with love, I still cannot force myself to not feel the happiness that makes my heart jump whenever I see true love happening to people I love and cherish.
And Ivan, oh Ivan, who loves my dear Tricia. I would do anything, even going through this dirty forest by myself.
<ring!> Oh my. It’s already time for us to meet again. How will I find my way back? Oh I hope James is just okay. Who knows, maybe he’s back in the camp site already? I hope so. I wouldn’t wish him ill amidst all of Tricia’s horrific stories. I believe that James is a good person, deep inside that hard shell of his. He seems nice, treating me with utmost respect. And those beautiful glaring eyes. Oh I can see his soul through his eyes. Could he be my Prince Charming?
***
It’s been thirty minutes, and I still cannot find my way back. Where am I??? Better use one of my flares. The sun might set soon. It might get dark, and I won’t find my way back.
Chapter 19: Fear
Tricia: “Look, Ivan! Up there. Someone lit a flare. It might be Ann! She might have found James! Hurry!”
Ivan: “I surely hope so. It’s getting dark. The sun will set soon.”
We ran like there’s no tomorrow, towards the flare. In a matter of minutes, we found our way to Ann. She’s dirty all-over, and doesn’t seem to be all too excited.
Ann: “Thank goodness you’re here already! I’ve been waiting for like…”
Tricia: “Where’s James?”
Ann: “Oh, I didn’t get to find him yet. I just got so lost that I had to use the flares. It’s getting dark, you know, and I don’t want to be stuck in this musty forest by myself!”
Tricia: “Oh Ann! I really thought you found James already. You got us both pumped up. Poor James. I’m sure he’s all alone.”
Ivan: “He can handle it. Don’t get ahead of yourself Trish. Who knows, maybe he’s back at camp already.”
Ann: “Ivan, YOUR Prince. is right, bes! Don’t worry too much.”
Tricia: “My what?”
Ann: “I didn’t say anything. Let’s just head back.”
I could not stop the smirk in my face. Upon hearing those words from Ann. I touched my lips as we were going back to camp, remembering the story of how Prince Phillip kissed Aurora to do away with the curse of eternal sleep.
*Flashback*
When my mom died, Lillian took care of me. She was then my nanny. Dad said that he fell in love with Lillian months after mom died. Lillian took good care of dad and I. But then she was deported to the Philippines for being an illegal alien. Dad had no idea that she was in the US illegally. Dad could not do anything but bid Lillian a sad goodbye.
A year after, he met Betty, who later on became my step mom. James entered my life as my younger brother. Unlike the horror stories of step moms, Betty took good care of me, just as how Lillian took care of me. Betty raised me like her own, not minding that I am dad’s child from his first wife.
I learned from Betty how to be accepting of people’s faults. There’s no perfect human, she always says. We have to learn to accept that fact.
She also taught me about true love. That first love isn’t necessarily your true love. In her case, dad wasn’t her first love. She had a long-time boyfriend from high school, who died when they were about to get married. Betty gave love another chance, and she married dad.
She says that dad is her true love, her true heart, but not her twin heart, her soul mate. She always affirmed and believed that her dead former fiancé was her twin heart, and that no one could replace him as that. Dad didn’t mind this, for he knows that he is Betty’s true love, her true heart.
*End of Flashback*
We reached camp before dusk. James was nowhere in sight. He still isn’t back from his early morning stride.
Tricia: “Ivan, you should use your cellphone to call for help. We can’t do this by ourselves anymore.”
Ivan: “I’ll try. For sure there’s signal here up in the mountains. We’re not too far away from civilization anyway.”
Ivan: “Crap! My phone’s dead!”
Ann: “Here, use mine, although it’s Sun Cell so I don’t know if it will work since the sun is already setting.”
Tricia: “Very funny Ann. Haha. <sarcastic>”
Ivan: “It’s not working either, Ann. No reception from up here.”
Ann: “See, I told you, it won’t work here. The sun has already set.”
Ivan: “This is what’s gonna happen tomorrow. We will continue our search for James once the sun rises. We will not waste a single minute. We have to find him. He’s my brother, your friend, after all.”
Tricia suddenly stood up and hugged me.
Tricia: “Oh Ivan, I hope James is safe. He’s all alone in the woods, and his grumpy attitude won’t help.”
In my mind, I thought to myself, will Tricia be this worried had I gone missing instead?
Chapter 20: Alone
I’m all by myself. The thorns from those rose bushes pierced through my jeans. My favorite jeans! They’re ruined. And I had to use parts of my shirt to tie around my legs to stop them from bleeding.
I tried standing up, but my left leg and ankle aren’t cooperating. I keep on stumbling down. Good thing some fruits fell with me to this little cave.
I tried shouting for hours, but no one responded. I heard footsteps nearby, but they weren’t human. I had to stop moving and shouting or else animals might gather and eat me alive, especially with blood all over me.
The sun has set. And with my jeans torn, and my shirt basically gone, I’m surely going to have a cold night. I sure hope I won’t get sick. I have to conserve my energy. Good thing Monday was declared a holiday so we don’t have to go back immediately. I have to do something by tomorrow, or else they might leave me behind. I know Ivan won’t do such a thing to me, but who knows. The girls are with him, and he has work to do for dad.
*Flashback*
My childhood was nice, but not perfect. Even if I’m mom’s real child, I always felt that she loves Ivan more. Perhaps mom’s trying to make Ivan feel that he’s welcome in the family, even if she’s not mom’s own child. But whatever, I’m mom’s real child, so she should love me more.
I always felt that dad is disappointed with me. I always was second best in the family. My grades are always lower than Ivan’s. He’s the better athlete. He’s older. He’s taller. He’s got it all. And I’ll always be second to him, in the eyes of dad, and everyone else on that matter.
I’m not a real rebel. I only appear to be such because I want to get noticed. I want people to love me as much as they love Ivan, or even more. But I don’t hate Ivan. He’s my brother after all. And perhaps what I got from mom is that family should be loved.
Mom always told us stories of her true love, dad, and her twin heart or soul mate, her dead ex-fiancé. I never really believed in such. All I know is that mom loves dad, and dad loves mom. And this dead guy is just a person from mom’s past. I never really cared about who he is, or what his story is about. Although I still don’t believe in true love and such. For me, so long as there’s a mutual feeling and understanding, then you can hit it off.
*End of Flashback*
Oh it’s getting colder alright. I can feel the chilly winds even if it’s summer.
What’s that? Oh man, I hear some thunders rolling. It might rain soon. And I thought it’s summer time. It shouldn’t rain hard. Perhaps it’s just a drizzle. It will pass. I can make it.
Chapter 21: Nightmare
It was a tiring day. Trish and I went to our tent early. Ivan wanted us to sleep early tonight. We still don’t know where James is. But I hope he’s safe. My prince charming will be safe, that I know. I never thought that it would be the other way around. In my world of fairy tales, it is always the princess aka ME, who needs saving. Such an irony that in real life, it is the princess (or the other prince and her princess) who will save the missing prince.
Ann: “Bes, today was such a tiring day. I tripped all over, and dirt’s all over me. My gosh! Eew!”
Tricia: “All for James.”
Ann: “Eh?”
Tricia: “I mean, we got to do some sacrifices of our own. We cannot just leave him behind. He’s still our friend.”
Ann: “Right… Right.”
Ann: “You know what bes, being by myself made me think about dad, and you know.”
Tricia: “Oh bes, are you ok? How are you holding up?”
Ann: “It’s cool. I’m ok now bes. I have accepted the reality of it all. Just made me think when I was alone.”
I lied. I haven’t really gotten over the fact that I am an illegitimate child of my father. It’s heart-breaking to know the truth, after living my 15 years of lies. It’s like my heart stopped beating. But I can’t make myself the center of attention. We are in search of someone living, not of someone dying.
***
I suddenly found myself swimming towards this wonderful beach. The rock formations were breath-taking. Fish of all sizes were swimming with me. Beautiful birds were flying above.
As I reached the beach, I was forced to crawl towards this cave. I suddenly had no power to stand-up. My feet were bound together, and scales were beginning to cover my legs. I was turning into a mermaid!
***
I suddenly woke-up, crying. For a dancer such as I, having my feet bound is the ultimate hell. My feet = my life. I’m the best dancer in school. I’m the leader of the dance troupe. I cannot lose my precious feet!
I looked at my watch. It’s just 4 AM. I decided to take a stroll. Just to get that nightmare out of my head.
An hour has passed, and both Tricia and Ivan are still asleep. I have to cook food now, so we can leave early. James is still somewhere in the woods. I hope he’s safe.
Ann: “Trish, Ivan, it’s time to wake-up! The sun is about to shine! Come eat your breakfast.”
Chapter 22: Lost and Found
Ivan: “This time, I’ll be going alone. You two go together.”
Tricia: “We’ll light a flare once we find James. You do the same. I’m confident about this, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Set your watches. Remember, we only have until 4 before we have to head back.”
Ann: “I packed some food for us to eat. I placed some in your backpack Ivan.”
Ivan: “Thanks Ann. You’re the best.”
Tricia: “Of course she is.”
Ann: “What’s with the sarcastic tone Trish?”
Tricia: “Nothing. Sorry about that bes. I’m just… nevermind.”
Ann to Tricia: “You’re so jealous! Friend, he’s not into me, I’m sure of that!”
Tricia: “What?”
Ann: “Oh don’t be so unassuming. I know you know what I mean.”
Ivan: “Girls, I’ll go ahead. See you in a few hours.”
Tricia and Ann walked for hours. They kept talking about Ann’s dad, about the family that he has. Ann also confessed about the dream that she just had earlier today.
It’s 12 noon, when the rain began to fall. Tricia and Ann reached the Y-path again. Another dilemma for Tricia as to where to go. Last time they went to the smoother path, and Ann seems to want to go that way.
Tricia had a strong feeling about the more treacherous path before. And her gut is telling her to go there again, stronger than before.
Tricia: “Believe me bes, I’m confident that James went through here. Please bes, believe me!”
Ann: “But bes, it’s raining, and the path’s rather scary.”
Tricia: “But bes! I really have a strong feeling about this.”
Ann: “Ok ok, let’s go there. But promise me, we will head back if the rain gets any stronger.”
Tricia: “Promise bes!”
An hour has passed, and the rain has stopped. They’re so deep in the woods that they fear that they cannot find their way back. They’re lost. Every tree seems to be the similar to each other. But Tricia and Ann kept moving forward. They know they have to find James. It’s now or never.
They were losing hope, until they saw a piece of clothing torn near a rose bush.
Tricia: “This is part of James’ shirt. He’s got to be here somewhere. James! James!”
Ann: “James! Where are you?”
Hearing this, James shouted back: “Hey, anyone, I’m down here!”
Tricia: “Bes, let’s go down there. James is there! Come on!”
Ann: “Go ahead bes, I’ll just light a flare to let Ivan know that we’ve found James.”
Tricia began her descent. It’s not too far from the path they’re taking. The slope’s rather slippery, so she’s proceeding with immense caution.
Chapter 23: Salvation
I’m shivering. It’s cold and raining. I have not eaten in over 24 hours. I have been dreaming of getting out of this wretched place. The pain is killing me, but there’s nothing I can do. My ankle’s broken, and no matter how hard I try, I just can’t stand up.
Voice from afar: “James! James!”
Another voice: “James! Where are you?”
I could not believe what I’m hearing. After almost a day of hearing no one but myself, I hear voices, familiar voices.
James: “Down here! I’m down here! Please help!”
I cannot move. I cannot stand-up. The thorns are still embedded in my legs, and my ankle’s still broken. And thanks to the relentless rain, I’m shivering. This has got to be my worst nightmare.
Tricia: “James? Oh thank heavens you’re safe!”
Tricia approached me and gave me a tender hug. Seeing me bleeding, shirtless and shivering, Tricia removed her jacket and covered me with it.
Tricia: “James, hold on, I’ll just get some splints. You have a bad bruise down there.”
James: “Don’t leave me, please.”
I grabbed on to Tricia’s arm. I didn’t know what got into me. I guess hunger and pain aren’t a good combination. I can’t seem to control myself. I say or do things which I don’t normally do.
James: “Tricia, I…, I.”
Tricia: “No, James. Shhh, I’m not leaving. Just stay still. Shhh, it’s gonna be okay.”
James: “I love you Tricia. I accidentally kissed you the first time we met, and I’m sorry. But I cannot hold it any longer. Tricia, I, I love you.”
Chapter 24: Ouch
Ann and I met-up quite instantly after she fired the flare. I ran to where they were. They have found my brother. James will be safe. We hurried down the slopes, not thinking of our own safety. We ran towards where Tricia and James were.
James: “Tricia, I, I love you.”
I was held back with what I heard. James doesn’t even believe in true love!
Tricia: “Shhh, James. You don’t know what you’re saying. Help will soon arrive.”
James: “I love you, Tricia. Ever since the day we accidentally kissed, I have not stopped thinking of you. You are my…”
Tricia puts her finger on James’ lips: “Now, now. Don’t talk. We will have more time to talk when you’re feeling better.”
James is out of his mind! Saying all those things to Tricia. What is he thinking? He’s scaring the hell out of me. What more to Tricia? What more to the girl I, ….
Ann: “Hey guys, we’re here…”
Tricia: “Oh, I’m so glad to see you bes!”
Ann: “Yeah right.”
Tricia: “We have to get him out of here! He’s hot.”
Ann: “You got that right, sister.”
Tricia: “No, no. What I meant was, James has a fever. His skin is burning.”
I didn’t enter the small cave. I went to look for some splints, for we’ll surely need those. James fell down the slopes, and he would have broken bones for sure.
***
Thank heavens Ann and Ivan are here. I don’t know how I can get James out here by myself if ever. And to be honest, listening to the words James is uttering, my heart’s beating faster than normal. I don’t know what to make of it.
Tricia: “Bes, where’s Ivan?”
Ann: “He’s just right behind me a while back.”
Tricia: “Why isn’t he with you? Is he okay?”
Ivan: “I’m here. No need to worry about me. Just got some wooden planks and bamboo to use for James.”
We have to get out of here soon. James’ condition is at its worst. He hasn’t eaten anything for more than a day now. And he’s getting a little delusional.
***
The rain has stopped. Ivan tied the wooden planks and bamboo to James’ left leg and ankle so it won’t get any worse. They helped James up the slippery slopes. Ann and Tricia on each side of James, and Ivan right behind them.
The clouds have come and are now gone. The sun’s rays are penetrating through the rainforest once again.
Chapter 25: Princes and Princesses
I could not believe it. My Prince Charming's in love with my best friend? No, no, it couldn't be. Maybe he's just delusional from all the stress of being alone in the woods, all those eeky blood. Oh my prince, he's just in so much pain right now. And he saw my best friend as the person to save him. Yes, that's the reason he said all those things. You're okay Ann, you're okay. I am still Cinderalla, no doubt about that.
Ivan: "Come quick guys. We’re almost at the campsite.”
James: “Please don’t let go of me. Please…”
Tricia: “James, we’re here for you. Don’t talk now.”
We brought James to the car, for him to get some rest. Ivan and I dismantled the tents. I don’t know why bes didn’t go with us. Maybe she’s tired from all the hiking and the seemingly unending search for James. You know, my best friends’ not really the physical type. She’s not good in athletics. She’s lampa so to speak, but I love her.
Good thing Ivan’s a quick worker. He didn’t let the relentless rain stop him from his work. In a matter of minutes we were done. He’s such a strong and efficient prince, much like how Prince Philip braved the odds to save Aurora from her death spell.
James: “Ahhh! Don’t leave me!”
James: “The pain is just… ahh!”
James is getting restless. We have to leave soon!
***
Tricia made sure James was settled in the car before she opened the door. James suddenly grabbed Tricia’s arm and cemented his hands to it.
James: “Don’t leave me! Please…”
Tricia: “But they need help in dismantling the tents…”
James: “No, I don’t want to be alone anymore.”
Tricia felt the pain in James’ words. She knew how it is to be alone. Her parents have always been absent due to the family business in Davao. And James’ feelings about his family aren’t all too different.
Tricia was thinking hard on what to do. She knows how painful it is to be alone, to feel alone. Much worse, how it feels to have someone with you, and leave you in a flash. She thought of her fairy tales from childhood, and that the only way to mend a broken heart is true love’s kiss.
***
But I’m only fifteen! I cannot kiss James. We’re not even in love! He’s just in a delusional state that’s why he said all those things. And we’re not kids anymore. Think Tricia. You’re a smart girl. Think, think!
Nobody knows, not even Ann, how much of a romantic I am. I may be the nerd girl in school, but I have always dreamt of having my own prince, saving me from my own version of hell in the castle.
Oh what the heck. No one’s here. I need to pacify James. He’s getting restless. I’ll just do it.
Chapter 26: Punch and Kisses
Ivan: “What the…”
Ann: “Holy… Bes! Why did you do that?”
Ivan: “James, James, are you okay?”
Ann: “You knocked him out! Bes!”
Tricia: “I didn’t know what else to do! I tried to pacify him by kissing him, but he kissed back! He got hold of my head, and I couldn’t get out of his grip. So I slapped him.”
Ann: “You did what???”
Tricia: “I slapped him…”
Ann: “No, before that.”
Tricia: “Kiss?”
Ann: “You kissed Prince Charming? I mean, James?!?!”
Tricia: “You told me before about it, remember? That a kiss can always pacify a restless person.”
Ann: “Yes but…”
Ivan: “Tricia, you kissed him? I didn’t know you like him. How nice can this be? <sarcastic tone>”
Tricia: “Oh no, it’s not what you think! I don’t like him! Not really…”
Ivan: “Then why kiss him?”
Tricia: “To stop him from shouting. I don’t know! I didn’t know what to do!”
Ann: “Calm down Ann. Calm… Okay! Look Tricia, he is calm alright. Not because of your “kiss”, but because of your slap. Nice one, sister!”
Ivan: “Let’s just go.”
Ivan drove fast. Ann, using her now-working Sun Cellular, called Harold and informed him of the gist of what has transpired. Perhaps due to the uneven mountain road, James woke-up, and grabbed Tricia’s arm.
James: "Don't let go of me Tricia."
Tricia: "Shh, don't worry, I'll always be here for you."
Ivan suddenly pushed on the gas pedal, making Ann held on for dear life.
Ann: “Ivan, slow down! I don’t want to die!”
Tricia: “We’ll get there Ivan. Slow down!”
Ivan: “Don’t tell me what to do.”
Tricia: “Ivan, what’s wrong with you? You’re not like this before.”
Silence ensued. Aside from James’ sobs and moans from pain, nothing else could be heard.
***
After an hour, we finally reached Medical City, where Harold and Betty were waiting for us.
Harold: “What happened Ivan? I put you in charge, and this happened?”
Ivan: “But dad…”
Betty: “Harold, don’t blame Ivan. I’m sure it’s not his fault this happened. Freak accidents could always happen.”
Ivan: “Thanks mom. It’s a long story.”
Betty gave his son a hug and a kiss on his cheek. Together with Harold and Tricia, we rushed James to the ER. Ivan and Betty soon followed.
Nurse: “Ma’am, sir, you have to move. We have protocols to follow.”
James: “Tricia, don’t… let… go… of… me…”
Tricia: “James, it’s ok. We’re in the hospital. You’re safe now.”
She rushed to my side, with tears rolling from her eyes. I must say that I’m a bit jealous of my best friend. She was with my Prince Charming. She kissed my Prince Charming. One lucky girl right?
Tricia: “Bes, Ivan, I’m sorry for what happened earlier. I didn’t mean to…”
Ivan: “No, it’s okay Tricia. I know you just panicked that why you did that.”
Ann: “Admit it bes, you liked it.”
Tricia: “No bes!”
Ann: “Really?”
A sudden scream from James had us all stand-up and rush towards the ER door.
Epilogue
The same night when we rushed James to the hospital, Tricia and I had a talk. She told me everything, from the time when they were in the small cave, to the time when James didn’t let go of her arm so she can help Ivan and I get the camp stuff.
She confessed. She doesn’t like James that way. They’re just friends. And she believed in fairy tales after all. Oh my sweet best friend.
The next day, we visited James in the hospital. He was asleep, so I just watched TV. And then I noticed Tricia and Ivan talking. They seemed happy with each other’s company. Laughs break out from time to time. And so I decided to not interrupt them from their small talk. I must admit, they really look good together. And their laughs are contagious.
After a week in the hospital, James was discharged. His wounds have all healed. According to the doctor, James sustained no permanent damage.
Tricia once again became James’ tutor. After all, they’re enrolled in Physics class, and James has to catch-up once again, for being absent for that long a time. I don’t mind Tricia and James spending time together. I know what’s going on between them. Or so I thought.
By: Kapamilya06_24 / TRICIAFIERS
Prologue
Only time will heal all wounds. At least for James, only a week was needed for his bruises to heal. The mental trauma from the ordeal was a different story altogether. James had recurring nightmares, with his brother serving as his pacifier.
Betty was getting worried that her son might have suffered something deeper than what the eye can see. She consulted with Yolly, Ann’s mom, who happens to be a therapist. Betty. With Yolly’s help, Betty hopes to give his son the inner peace he once had.
But James just had to have a hard shell that Yolly cannot penetrate. James would barely talk during their sessions. Yolly told Betty of another way, but a risky one, if not monitored well.
Meanwhile, Tricia still tutored James in Physics. But the tutoring lead to something else, something that helped James get-over his near-death experience.
Everyday, after their tutoring sessions, James would confide to Tricia his true feelings. He felt that he can trust Tricia. After all, she "found" him. James felt the sincerity of Tricia that he gave his full trust to her.
Eventually, James’ nightmares disappeared. It seems as if that Tricia’s company has helped him a lot. Yolly, aware of this through her daughter Ann, felt that having Tricia as the person to whom James will confide his innermost feelings will prove beneficial for James. And she could not have been anymore right. Yolly had weekly sessions with James, just to check-up on him. By the third week, she has found James to be a lot better. He has become more open, and more willing to speak to Yolly.
Chapter 1: The End
By the end of May, Harold had to face a decision. The family has been in the country for two months now, and yet they haven’t found any investors. They can’t leave their business for so long, unless there’s enough reason. And school’s about to start in the Philippines. If they are to start an expansion in the Philippines, then they would have to enroll James in school here in the country.
Harold has made a decision. Two months has been a long time for them to look for investors. They will leave by the end of the week.
James and Ivan were saddened by this news. While at the subdivision clubhouse, the boys informed their new-found friends about their dad’s decision:
Ivan: “Trish, Ann, dad has decided that we have to leave by the end of the week if we don’t find any investor for our company.”
James: “With the economy in the US still unstable, it’s not surprising that no one wants to invest in our company.”
Ann: “That means you’ll leave us?”
James: “Well, we practically have no choice.”
Ivan: “We can’t leave the company for so long a time.”
Ann: “But, you do have a choice. You can choose to stay!”
Ivan and James: “No.”
Ivan: “It’s not that easy. I have to help dad with the business.”
James: “And they surely won’t leave me.”
Tricia was just silent the entire time. All three noticed her silence.
Ann: “Bes, why are you so quiet? This is SO not you.”
Ivan: “Don’t worry guys. If ever this does not end well in our business venture, we can still keep our friendship, right?”
James: “Trish!”
Tricia jumped from her seat.
Tricia: “What? What?”
James: <rolls eyes> “You’re at a loss again!”
Ivan: “Trish, don’t get too sad. As I said, we can still keep in touch. Don’t worry now.”
Ivan gave Tricia a tight hug. James can’t help but glare at them. Ann did not fail to notice this.
Ann: <hugs James> “Oh James, I’ll miss you.”
James: <still glaring at Trish and Ivan behind Ann> “I’ll miss you too, Ann. Both you and Tricia.”
It seems like the days are moving too quickly. The girls hanged out with the guys everyday, until their very last day.
Just as they Dorschners were about to leave their house, Harold received a call, “Hello?”
“Hi. This is Mr. Jackson. A friend of mine from Davao told me about your business plans, and I would like to have a talk with you about that” said the caller.
“That’s just great! Where should I go to meet you formally?” Harold replied.
“I’m currently in Cebu with Frida Santos. I believe you know her?” said Mr. Jackson.
“Yes. I just met her earlier this month. She’s the mother of my sons’ friend, Tricia.”
Mr. Jackson, in a bit of a hurry, “Indeed. Harold, I have your email here too. I’ll send you an email about the details. Hope to see you by the end of the week?”
Harold, quite ecstatic about the news, “Yes, yes! I’ll wait for your email.”
Harold: “Betty, sons, unpack your luggages. We have found our investor!”
James and Ivan could not hide their excitement. They left their house and went to Ann’s, to inform them of the good news.
Chapter 2: A New Beginning
I can’t seem to get myself out of my bed. I have been fighting this feeling of sadness and despair since Monday. But it seems like my pierced heart won’t heal as fast. I can’t get over the fact that my new friends will be leaving so soon. In fact, they’ll be leaving us today.
In three hours, they’ll be flying out of the country. Maybe they’re already on their way to the airport. I don’t know. How should I know? I haven’t really been myself these past few days. I’m hanging out with my best friend and the two boys, but my mind is wandering off always, thinking of the time when the boys will finally leave Bes and I.
I guess I should learn to let go. I can cry my heart out when I’m lying in my bed each night, but it will never change the fact that we will now be miles apart. I have to learn how to move on. There’s always the internet for us to have constant communication anyway.
I forced myself to stand up, and take a shower. Maybe freshening up will help me get out from this stupor.
I stayed in the bathroom for a good thirty minutes. When I got back to my room, I almost went back to sleep when I noticed my phone ringing. It was Ann calling.
Ann: “Bes! Get-up, and go to my house quickly!”
Tricia: “But why? It’s just 6:30 in the morning. I’m too lazy to go there.”
Ann: “Come quick. Promise, you’ll snap out from your trance when you see my surprise for you.”
As I did not want to disappoint my ever-loyal best friend, I went to her house. It took me a bit longer this time. When I was about to ring their doorbell, I noticed a familiar car. Someone was inside the car.
I rang the doorbell. Not even a minute has passed when Ann opened the door herself.
Ann: “Bes! Go inside now! Come!!!”
Tricia: “Hey, hey, calm down. What’s going on?”
As I entered the house, a familiar figure was standing by the kitchen hallway.
Ann: “Surprise!”
Tricia: “Is that…”
Ann: “Ivan!”
Tricia: “But how…”
Ann: “Why are they here? Because they’re not leaving anymore!”
Ivan: “Trish!” <hugged and carried Trish>
Ann: “Ehem, Ivan. Why did she get a tighter hug?”
Ivan: “Oh, oh. No, it’s not like that….”
Ann: “Just kidding! It’s not like I’m jealous.”
I was was still at a trance. It is as if I hadn’t heard a single thing. I didn’t know how to react. I am happy that they’ll be staying here. But I guess my mind is locked into them leaving that the news of them staying hasn’t penetrated my hard shell.
Ivan: <waving his hand in front of Tricia’s face> “Trish? Hello? Aren’t you happy with us staying?”
Tricia: “Oh what? Oh, no. I’m happy, of course!”
Ann: “Bes, you’re still not yourself? Ivan, she has been like this for days.”
Tricia: “Bes!”
Ivan: “Is that true? But why…”
Ann: “Because she’s afraid of losing you!”
Tricia: “Bes!!!”
Ivan: “I can’t say that I’m not touched. Come here Trish, let me give you another hug.”
Ivan hugged me one more time. I was then wondering why James wasn’t around when suddenly words came out of my mouth.
Tricia: “I thought I’m gonna lose you.”
And tears started falling from my eyes.
Ivan: “Don’t worry, I’m here. I won’t leave.”
Tricia: “I thought you’ll be gone for good. Those afternoons we spent together…”
Ivan: “Hush now.”
I don’t know what I’m saying. Good thing Ann suddenly spoke, or else I would have said something that I would regret.
Ann: “By the way, where’s James?”
Tricia: “Oh. James! Where’s James?”
I asked as I pulled away from Ivan.
Ivan: “He’s at the car. He doesn’t feel like getting all emotional.”
Tricia: “Let’s go to your car then. Surprise him!”
Ann: “Right! Let’s force him to go down. Evil me!”
All three of us hurried out to their car, and forced James to go out.
Ann: “Oh James, my prince! Why did you not go down? I thought you’ll be gone for good.”
James: “I guess I’m just too afraid of your reaction.”
Tricia: “You fool. Of course we’ll be happy!”
Ivan: “You should have seen Trish a while ago bro.”
James: “Why?”
Tricia: “It’s nothing!”
Suddenly, Ivan’s phone rang. It was his dad.
Ivan: “I’ll be home soon dad.”
James: “What’s wrong?”
Ivan: “Dad and I will go to Cebu to meet our investor. And he asked me to enroll you to school.”
Tricia: “To what school?”
Ann: “I’m guessing, our school?”
Ivan: “Yup, your school indeed. You’ll be in the same level.”
James: “But what about the requirements?”
Ivan: “Mom took care of that already. She’ll be meeting us in your new school.”
Ann and I tagged along with James and Ivan to school. I’ll be in the same school with James! And Ivan will be there to bring us home. This year ought to be fun!
Chapter 3: Pantomime
Keeping up with the charades is hard to do. Ever since the camping trip, I had to pretend to be okay. I had to prevent an outburst of rushing feelings from my swelling heart. Feelings of love and hate overflowing.
It’s the first day of school. I don’t know what to expect. I’m the new kid here, so I don’t know anyone, except Tricia, Ann and my half-sister, Devon.
Just last week, dad and Ivan went to Cebu to meet with Mr. Jackson. Everything went well, I suppose. Dad and Ivan were in the office all the time, talking about the business and finances.
Just last night, Ivan and I talked about the business.
Ivan: “It’s a good thing that Mr. Jackson’s nice enough. He agreed with our business proposal. Apparently, Tita Frida told Mr. Jackson about our business.”
James: “How did Tita Frida know?”
Ivan: “I’m guessing Trish told her mom about our business.”
James: Then this Mr. Jackson, he must be rich to just invest in our business?”
Ivan: “He is. He owns a sugar milling company. He actually lives in Bacolod, but he was in Cebu to meet Tita Frida and their classmates for a class reunion.”
James: “Sounds like Tita Frida was the key to our problem after all.”
Ivan: “I bet she put in good word about dad and our business.”
James: “Perhaps.”
Ivan: “Oh yeah, I also met with Mr. Jackson’s son, Bret. He was with this Cebuana girl. I presume that she’s his girlfriend.”
James: “Is she pretty?”
Ivan: “She is. A bit short though, but still pretty. And she’s really nice to talk to.”
James: “Wow, looks like another catch.”
Ivan: “But she has a boyfriend already!”
James: “You said you’re unsure. You just assumed that she is Bret’s girlfriend.”
Ivan: “Ah heck. Mr. Jackson and Bret are coming over next week, so you better behave yourself.”
Looks like we’re getting some company over next week.
That night, I cannot sleep. I’m too excited for the following day. My heart’s beating faster, thinking of the adjustments I have to do. School’s earlier here in Manila. Although I’m exempted from all the Tagalog classes, I still have to go through the other subjects. And as a replacement for the Tagalog subjects, I have to be part of the varsity team. I have to get in to at least one of else I’m toast.
Just this morning, I barely had sleep. I woke-up at 5:30 and took a shower. My school uniform’s just perfect for me. I went down an hour later and all of us, including Devon, had breakfast, which Yaya Lillian served.
Ivan drove both myself and Devon to school. I thought I’ll be seeing Tricia and Ann, but much to my dismay, they were not by the gate.
As Devon and I were walking down the hallway, people were staring at us. Perhaps it’s because I’m the new guy that’s why they’re all staring.
James: “Devon, why are they staring at us?”
Devon: “They are?”
Devon quickly grabbed my hand.
James: “What are you doing? We’re siblings. Half siblings. Remember?”
Devon: “Shush! They don’t know that.”
Thankfully, I had to look for my class, so Devon unclasped her hand from mine. I sifted through the list, and found that I’m put in section Diamond. Tricia and Ann were also in the same class as I.
Devon: “Hey. I’m in section Jade. How about you?”
James: “Diamond.”
Devon: “You must have high grades.”
James: “Why?”
Devon: “People from Diamond are the smartest in the batch.”
James: “Then why aren’t you there?”
Devon: “Being a scholar doesn’t mean that you’re that smart. But I guess I am smart after all.”
James: “But you’re in Jade.”
Devon: “Jade also consists of the smartest people from the batch. Unlike other schools, in our school, there can be more than one star section. It depends on how close the grades of the students are.”
James: “Then how do they divide the students into the different star sections?”
Devon: “They say it’s random.”
James: “So I guess this is goodbye. I’ll see you later by the gate.”
Devon: “But your room and my room are just adjacent to each other. Can we not go together?”
James: “I have to go pee.”
Devon: “Alright, fine. I’ll go ahead.”
After using the toilet, I went to my classroom, and found almost no seats. As I searched for familiar faces, my heart raced.
Ann: “Over here! We got you a chair!”
Ann called me out and had me seated behind Tricia. There’s this guy sitting behind Ann whom they were speaking to just before she called me out.
Ann: “James, this is Patrick, our friend. Patrick, meet James.”
Patrick: “Hey there.” <stretched his hand>
As I shook his hand, Ann began her short tale as to how they became friends with Patrick. Patrick’s their childhood friend. Their mothers are the best of friends, and so they became the best of friends as well.
Ann’s story was cut-short when the bell rang.
Chapter 4: Accident
She has the most beautiful hair. Long and shiny hair. I couldn’t take my eyes off her.
Teacher: “James. James Dorschner.”
She’s turning towards me. Her eyes are like black holes, captivating my whole soul.
Teacher: “Mr. Dorschner!”
Tricia: “James. <waves her hand> James? James!”
James: “What. What?”
Tricia: “The teacher is calling your attention. You have to introduce yourself.”
Teacher: “Mr. Dorschner. It is just the first day of classes. I don’t care if you’re new here, but you have to answer when I call on you. This is your first and final warning. The same goes for everyone.”
The bell suddenly rang. I wasn’t able to introduce myself. So much for the commotion I have caused. At least the class knows who I am now…
Teacher: “Before you go, I have an announcement to make. This class will be similar to a college preparatory class. You will be assigned research topics. One topic per group, but I expect individual outputs from different sub-topics. I have posted your groupings on the board outside the English Department. I expect each group to submit a detailed topic by tomorrow.”
Oh man. This teacher will definitely kill us. We have a 10-minute break to go to our next classroom. Someone got hold of my hand. She held my hand and made me run like hell.
Girl: “Bes, hasten up! I’m excited to see the groupings!”
James: “Uhm…”
Girl: “Come on bes, keep running!”
And she wasn’t even looking at me. She thought all along that I am her best friend. She finally let go of me when we got to the English Department. There she looked for the groupings. As she turned around to face me, horror struck her face.
James: “Hi.”
Girl: “Where’s Ann? And why are you here?”
James: “Well. You grabbed my hand and made me run like there’s no tomorrow…”
Tricia: “Oh my God! I thought it was Ann I pulled! I’m sooo sorry!”
James: “You better be careful next time.”
Tricia: “I’m really sorry. On a lighter note, we’re groupmates! You, me, Ann and Patrick.”
James: “Really? About that Patrick…”
Tricia: “Oh shocks, it’s time for our next class. We better hurry!”
Chapter 5: Daze
Tricia got hold of James’ hands and they ran towards the English Department. What is happening?
Patrick: “I was only away one summer and Tricia already got a boyfriend?”
Ann: “James? No way! He’s just a friend. We sort of had a little adventure, along with his brother Ivan, last summer.”
Patrick: “What kind of adventure?”
Ann: “It’s a long story.”
Patrick: “We have time.”
Ann: “But not now. Our next class will begin in exactly 8 minutes.”
Patrick: “Later then?”
Patrick just returned yesterday from his Summer Camp in Beijing. My own mom sent me the previous summer, to learn the Chinese language and culture. I wonder if he found someone else in that summer camp…
Patrick: “Ann, you’re lost again.”
Ann: “I’m sorry.”
Patrick: “What’s wrong?”
Ann: “Just that Bes got hold of my prince char… I mean James.”
Patrick: “Your what?”
Ann: “It’s nothing.”
Patrick: “You like James? But why did Tricia get hold of James’ hands and ran with him then?”
I don’t know what’s happening. My peaceful castle is suddenly on rocky soil.
Tricia: “Guys I’m sorry.”
Patrick: “Why did you leave all of a sudden? And with this guy.”
Tricia: “I thought it was Ann’s hand that I grabbed.”
James: “You should have seen the horror in her eyes when she saw that it was me.”
Tricia: “Shut up.”
Oh my castle’s safe again! Bes isn’t trying to steal my lovely prince. But why am I feeling this way?
Tricia: “Bes, are you okay?”
Patrick: “Don’t worry about her. She’s good.”
Tricia: <to James> “Why is she quiet all of a sudden?”
James: <to Tricia> “I was with you, remember?”
Tricia: “You sure she’s okay Patrick? She’s so pale…”
Ann: <shouting> “I’m okay!”
Tricia: “Bes?”
What did I just do? Why did I shout?
The bell suddenly rang. Good thing our classroom is just nearby. We barely made it to the classroom before the teacher started the class.
The day went by so fast. I was mum the whole time. Patrick made an excuse that I’m feeling sick that’s why I’m quiet. He’s such a good friend.
James: “Crap. She’s there again.”
Patrick: “Who?”
James: “My half-sister, Devon.”
Patrick: “What did she do this time?”
James: “Well, when I told her that people were staring at us, she suddenly held my hand. It’s sickening to think of what she did.”
Tricia: “But you’re siblings!”
James: “That’s what I said. But she didn’t listen. She said no one knows anyway.”
Tricia: “Let me handle this.”
As I kept mum about what I have been thinking about, my best friend Tricia kept asking if I was okay. But then she did something that made my heart swell even more.
Devon: “James! Wait up!”
Tricia: “Sorry Devon. James and I are going somewhere.”
Devon: “What?”
Tricia: “Go home Devon. James?”
I never thought my best friend can be this feisty. She got hold of James’ hands. Patrick and I followed the two of them, and we walked around the campus until Devon stopped following us.
James: “Thanks for that Tricia.”
Tricia: “No worries.”
James: “It’s bothersome that your own sister is doing that to you, just to get the attention of people.”
Tricia: “I can’t say I know what you’re feeling, but maybe she just wanted to be noticed.”
All this time, they’re still holding hands. My heart is feeling a certain feeling that I’ve never felt before.
Tricia: “James, I think you should let go of my hand now.”
James: “Oh my. I’m sorry. I guess I’m just so used to you holding my hands.”
What? Since when were they holding hands?
Tricia: “James. What happened this morning is an accident. I didn’t mean to drag you across the school to the English Department.”
Patrick: “Are you two already an item?”
Tricia: “What??”
That horrific tone is just so Tricia. That signals that my best friend isn’t feeling anything for James. That’s a good thing. My prince charming is still mine.
Ann: “Don’t be such a wuss Patrick. Of course they’re not together.”
Tricia: “Oh bes! You feeling better now?”
Ann: “Yes.” <coughs> “I was merely preserving my voice. It seems as if I’m losing it.”
Suddenly, Tricia’s phone rang.
Tricia: “Hello?”
Ivan: “Hi Trish. Is James with you? He isn’t answering his phone.”
Tricia: “Yes, he is. I’m with Ann and Patrick.”
Ivan: “Patrick? Is he your boyfriend?”
Tricia: “No! Of course not. He’s our best friend from childhood.”
Ivan: “Oh good.”
Tricia: “What?”
Ivan: “Nothing. Hey, are you guys done? I’m already near your school. I can pick you up.”
Tricia: “That will be great! You’re such a gentleman, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Oh it’s nothing. I’ll see you then.”
Tricia: “Bye!”
That tone. She sounded happy. Does she like Ivan?
Tricia: “James. That was your brother. He said you’re not answering your phone.”
James: “Shoot! I left it at home.”
Tricia: “Anyway. He says he’s already near. Patrick, you can come with us!”
Patrick: “Really?”
Tricia: “I told Ivan I’m gonna introduce you to him.”
Patrick: “That’ll be great!”
This feeling. I don’t know. I like James. There, I said it. I’m pretty sure my best friend doesn’t like him. But why am I feeling this way? What if she does like him? What will I do?
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:42 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:28 PM #57♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
By: Kapamilya06_24 / TRICIAFIERS
Writer’s notes:
This is a fictional story. I used the names of my favorite PBB Teen Clash 2010 housemates, but the characters are not based on them. This story is in no way intended to offend any of the housemates mentioned, as only their names were used as reference, and nothing more. Hence, I would not call it a fan fiction, for it is just a mere fictional story.
The whole story was written in a span of a few days. This is just my first draft. Some errors or inconsistencies might still be present. Pardon me for such mistakes.
Background
Ivan - the good kid, he is running the family business along side his father, believes in true love
Tricia - best friend of Ann, both Ann and Tricia believe that there's the right soul mate for everyone
Ann - best friend of Tricia, both Ann and Tricia believe that there's the right soul mate for everyone
James - Ivan's half brother, rebel who doesn't believe in true love
Devon - Ivan's and James' half sister, born and raised in the Philippines
Chapters 1-26
Chapter 1: It's hard to say goodbye
Ivan's mom died when he was just a baby. Their Filipina maid, Lillian Seron, treated him like her own, and gave Mr. Dorschner the best care that he fell in love with her.
Months passed, and a sudden knock on the household came. Two immigration officers greeted them and asked Lillian to come over to their office. They found out that Ms. Seron has been an illegal alien, a TNT. Lillian was deported to the Philippines, with her unborn child in her tummy, unknown to Mr. Dorschner. He did not have any means of communicating with Lillian. Mr. Dorschner cannot fathom the events that transpired.
Years have passed, and Ivan is now working in their family business. Mr. Dorschner has found new love which bore them a son, which they named James. Unlike Ivan, James is a rebel, does not want to inherit their business, and doesn't care about rules. He is the black sheep of the family, always getting into trouble.
In an effort to expand their business, Mr. Dorschner decided to go to the Philippines, bringing with him his new wife and two kids. They purchased a house where they can live for a few months while scouting for investors in their business venture in the Philippines. Through an agency, they hired maids and drivers as well.
When they entered the house, Mr. Dorschner saw a familiar figure sweeping the floors.
Chapter 2: The Return
Low and behold, it was Lillian. Mr. Dorschner cannot believe his eyes. Beside Lillian was Devon, also sweeping the floor for them. All workers immediately stopped upon the entrance of the family to the house. Lillian cannot believe her eyes. She was about to embrace Mr. Dorschner when she saw the new Mrs. Dorschner holding hands with him. She proceeded to bring the luggages to their respective rooms.
Mrs. Dorschner was feeling kinda hot, and decided to go take a shower. James and Ivan went to their room to get some rest. Mr. Dorschner was left alone with Lillian and Devon. Lillian said that she respects the presence of the new Mrs. Dorschner and that she forgot about their love. Mr. Dorschner asked "Who is this young girl?" to which Lillian replied "your daughter."
Mr. Dorschner was shocked to learn that he had a daughter. He hugged Devon but Devon did not feel anything, growing up knowing about the story, but with a kind step father. He did not want Mr. Dorschner to interfere with the family that she already has.
Mrs. Dorschner came out of the shower and saw this. She went down the stairs, her eyes glaring at Lillian and Devon.
Chapter 3: I don't think we need this
All three were shocked to see Mrs. Dorschner proceeding down the stairs. Her glare was cutting through their bodies.
Mrs. Dorschner: "So is she Lillian, your FORMER love?"
Mr. Dorschner: "Yes, she is. I, I..."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Shh, no need to say anything. I understand."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Hi Lillian. My husband has told me of your existence. Call me Betty. We shall be friends, unless you do anything stupid for me to take out all your hair."
Lillian: "Ma.......aaam..., I...."
Mrs. Dorschner: "Betty. Call me Betty. And who's she?"
Lillian: "My daughter, Betty"
Mr. Dorschner: "Our daughter, apparently. She claims that Devon here is my daughter"
Devon: "I don't think I need you anyway."
Lillian: "Oh don't be such a hard head. Give respect to your father and Betty."
Mrs. Dorschner: "It's okay Betty. I know this must come as a shock to Devon. It also is to Harold here, and myself."
Lillian: "I did not mean to keep this from anyone. I didn't know I was pregnant then when I was deported. I didn't have any means of contacting Harold here."
Lillian: "Please forgive Devon here. She knew about the story all along, but her step father has been too kind and loving of her."
Mrs. Dorschner: "I understand. No worries. JUST don't cross any boundaries, and we will be okay, Lillian. Devon?"
Ivan and James went down from their room. They heard the whole story from their room. Apparently, everything can be heard in their house. Mrs. Dorschner informed James and Ivan of their half-sister, Devon, which Ivan easily welcomed. James, however, was a different story.
James: "I don't think we need this. These maids will just interfere with my life. I want to drive my own car. I don't think I need a driver."
Harold: "No. Ivan will drive with you to work."
James: "Work? No way!"
Betty: "School then. You will go to a Summer Enrichment Class."
James rolls his eyes.
Ivan: James and I will just go to the SCHOOL then.
Chapter 4: Action-Reaction
Ivan: "Mom told me about you going to school. They figured you wouldn't want to go to work, so they decided to enroll you to a summer class instead."
James: "Why didn't you tell me? And I thought you're my brother. Dude!"
Ivan: "Hey, you brought this to yourself. Being the rebel that you are... Don't worry. I'll bring you to school. I'll also be the one to pick you up."
James rolls his eyes
They arrived at the school. They proceeded to the information desk, and Ivan enrolled James to a Physics class, to advance him for the coming semester. He's a few days late so he has to catch up with the readings. They were on their way back when they saw a group of dancers .
Ann is the leader of the dance troupe. They practice all day long, even during the summer months, for the National championships. They have always come up short, winning 2nd place for three consecutive years. Now on her 4th and final year in High School, Ann vows to make her team win this time.
When practice was over, Ann went to the side, to this nerd-looking girl reading her Physics book. It's Tricia, Ann's nerdy best friend who heads the Science Club. She's in school for a summer enrichment class in Physics, which has just finished an hour earlier. She was waiting for Ann to finish rehearsals for her dance troupe.
Ann: "That was an intense routine! I'm sooo exhausted!"
Tricia nods.
Ann: "Oh, and the sun is excruciatingly painful to the arms! I'm getting suburnt! Ugh!"
Tricia nods.
Ann: "Trish, are you even listening to me? My God, YOU are such a nerd."
Tricia: "I'm sorry Ann. I was so preoccupied with Newton's laws. For an action, there's always an opposite and equal reaction!"
Ann: "Blah blah. I don't need that!"
Tricia: "Oh Ann, I'm getting dizzy. This heat is really taking its toll on me"
Ann: "Let's get going then. You might pass out soon."
Ann and Tricia were walking so swiftly that they bumped into James and Ivan. One guy accidentally kissed Tricia in a split second. Tricia's books fell on the ground. Both guys picked up the books when Tricia suddenly fainted.
Chapter 5: The Kiss
Ivan immediately carried Tricia and brought her to the car. James got hold of the books and followed his brother. Ann followed them to the car as well. Ivan laid down Tricia to the back of the car.
Ivan: "Miss, miss, are you okay? Maybe you need some cold air."
Ann: "Bes, what's wrong? Are you okay?"
After a few minutes, with Ann fanning Tricia, Tricia woke-up.
Tricia: "Where am I? Am I in heaven? Why are there handsome men around me?"
Ann: "Oh Trish you got me worried! Are you ok?"
Ivan: "Miss, you fainted. I brought you to my car for you to have some cold air."
Tricia: "Oh. OH! I am so sorry sir. I didn't mean to faint. I'm really sorry."
Ivan: "It's okay miss. My name's Ivan."
Ann stands up: "And I'm Ann. Hi... She's Tricia, my best friend."
Ann shook the hands of Ivan. Ivan shook the hands of Ann and Tricia. Ann went on to James to shake his hands:
Ann: "And your name is?"
James: "James."
Ann to herself: "Ohh, feisty."
Ivan: "Tricia, Ann, I guess I better bring you to your houses. Where do you live?"
Ann: "Oh, we live in..."
Tricia: "Oh it's okay, no need to bring us. We can go home on our own."
Ann: "But Trish! EHEM!"
Ivan: "Miss, I insist. I'll bring you two home."
Ann: "Okay! Let's go to my house then. Trish lives next door anyway."
Ivan drove Ann and Tricia to Ann's house. Ivan can't help but smile at the sight of the two pretty girls. James noticed this as he remained quiet in the car. Nothing new about that as he is always quiet with new people around. What's different perhaps is his blushing cheeks. He was smirking from time to time. Ivan noticed this.
Ann: "Goodbye Ivan! Bye James..."
Ann to Tricia: "Oh that James is quite scary. Did you see his face???"
Tricia: "Thank you, Ivan and James."
Tricia to Ann: "Yeah, I was a bit scared. And..."
Chapter 6: Who's who?
Over at Ann's House:
Tricia: "And I think I got kissed."
Ann: "WHAT?!?! Your virgin lips!"
Tricia: "Hey, don't be OA!"
Ann: "But who?"
Tricia: "That's the thing. I don't know. It happened so fast that I didn't know who among Ivan or James accidentally kissed me."
Ann: "Is that why you fainted? Oh, and don't think I missed your comment about them being handsome, and you being in heaven!"
Tricia: "Did I say that? That's so embarrassing!"
In Ivan's car:
Ivan: "What's wrong dude? What's with your smirk?"
James: "What's with your smile?"
Ivan: "Oh I asked first, brother. So you answer first."
James: "No I won't."
Ivan: "You're really such a brat."
James rolls his eyes.
Ivan: "Those girls are really pretty. I can't believe that we'll see such beautiful faces on our first day! Score man!"
James: "Is that really you?"
Ivan: "Sorry, I just can't believe our luck! So what's with your sudden happiness?"
James: "Oh same."
Ivan: "Is that really all?"
James: "Yes."
Ivan: "Oh really? Why is it that..."
James: "Drop it."
Back in Ann's house:
Ann: "Tricia, why don't you stay overnight? So you can tell me more!"
Tricia: "Ann, that's all I've got to say."
Ann: "But the feelings you have for this mystery guy. The feeling of getting kissed."
Tricia: "Fine. But I've got homework to do first."
In the Dorschner residence:
Ivan informed his stepmom that James is already enrolled in school. Lillian prepared dinner for the family. While the boys were away, Betty and Lillian got to talk, and Betty felt the hardships that Lillian experienced, living as a domestic helper in Hong Kong, before going home and working for the Dorschner's (without Lillian knowing that it was really them who she'll be working for). Harold talked to Devon to apologize, which Devon blandly received.
Ivan went to the veranda and looked at the scenery behind their house. The Marikina Valley looked beautiful. Ivan smiled, and touched his lips.
James went to his shared room and sat on his bed. He smiled, and touched his lips.
Chapter 7: Physics Class
It was time for James’ first Physics Class. He sat beside Tricia, being the only person he knows. The professor began a barrage of questions. Being the nerd girl that she is, Tricia swiftly answered all questions. The professor, getting used to only Tricia answering, decided to deviate from his norm, and decided to ask each student, one at a time. Everyone somehow managed to answer the professor’s questions.
It was now James’ turn. He was supposed to read the previous night, but he can’t take his mind off something else. He ended up not reading up on the lessons he missed. He failed to answer the professor’s question.
Prof.: “James, it doesn’t mean that you’re new here that I will exempt you from the lessons you missed.”
James: “I’m sorry Prof. I promise to read up tonight.”
Prof.: “This is a fast-paced class, and I want you to catch-up fast. I’m assigning Tricia here to be your partner. Tricia, make sure he catches up quick.”
Tricia: “But sir…”
Prof.: “No buts.”
Tricia: <sigh>
The bell rang. Tricia left the class in haste. James quickly followed.
James: “I’m really sorry that you got into this predicament. It’s my fault. You can opt not to do this.”
Tricia: “No. I always follow the orders of my teachers.”
James: “Playing the good student card ei?”
Tricia: “What are you saying?”
James: “Nothing.”
James tailed Tricia until they got to Ann’s Dance Troupe’s practice. James sat beside Tricia, staring at her. Tricia stared back.
Tricia: “What’s your problem? Why are you staring at me?”
James: “Oh, sorry. It’s nothing.”
James touched his lips momentarily when Tricia grabbed his arm.
Tricia: “Let’s go to the library. We still have 1 hour before Ann finishes her practice.”
James: “Ok. My brother won’t get here until that time either.”
Tricia: “We’re going to study the past days’ lectures tonight. Are you free?”
James: “Yes. Would you mind if we have our study date in my house instead? I’ll ask my brother to bring you home.”
Tricia: “Date? What date???”
James: “No, I meant STUDY date.”
Tricia: “Oh. Ok, I don’t mind. But Ann…”
James: “She can come with us. I’m sure she’d love to.”
James and Tricia went to the library and they started studying.
Chapter 8: Timelessness
It was 5 PM, and there’s no sign of James nor Tricia. Ann decided to go out of the school when she saw Ivan.
Ann: “Hey Ivan. Waiting for James?”
Ivan: “Oh yes. I’m his driver for the whole duration of our stay here, being the one of legal age.”
Ann: “Oh. Why are you here by the way?”
Ivan: “Well, dad wanted to do some expansion of our business, and we decided to have a vacation here as well, for a good three months.”
Ann: “So you’ll be here for three months huh? How’s the Philippines so far for you?”
Ivan: “It’s rather hot here. We met our surprise half sister, whose mom is working for us as a househelp.”
Ann: “SURPRISE half-sister?”
Ivan: “Yeah. Dad always told us and mom, actually my step mom, that he once had a Filipina woman whom he loved. The poor woman got deported from the US, and no one knew that her an dad had a child. Not even dad knew.”
Ann: “Wow. That’s one hell of a surprise.”
Ivan: “You got that right. Somehow we got to accept her easily. We kinda expected that there might be another one of us, based on dad’s story of his Filipina lover.”
James and Tricia lost track of time. It was half past five when the librarian told them that it’s closing time already. They hurriedly went down to the school entrance to find Ann and Ivan, waiting for them.
James and Tricia: “We’re sorry!”
James: “We were studying at the library.”
Ivan: “YOU, studying?”
James: “The teacher asked Tricia here to tutor me, so I can catch up.”
Tricia: “I’m sorry bes!”
Ann: “It’s okay bes. Lucky you Ivan here was a nice guy to talk to.”
James: “Tricia will be going with me tonight, to finish up the tutoring. I hope you don’t mind, Ann.”
Ivan: “She can come with us if she wants to.”
Ann: “Oh really? Maybe we can go to my house first so we can change our clothes, before going to your house.”
Ivan: “That’s cool.”
So off they went to Ann’s house. Tricia and Ann changed clothes, and brought some more, thinking that they might get to go overnight. After all, James had got a lot of catching up to do.
Chapter 9: A Family Affair
Upon arrival at the boys’ home, Harold and Betty Dorschner greeted them, asking who the girls are. James explained the circumstances to both, and both felt that the girls are nice people. The couple welcomed the girls to their house, and asked Lillian to cook for more. Meanwhile, Ann saw a familiar figure in the kitchen.
James and Tricia went to the boys’ room to study. Meanwhile, Ivan can’t seem to fathom the idea of leaving James and Tricia alone in a room, so he decided to stay in the room as well, together with Ann. With nothing to do, Ann and Ivan decided to continue their conversation from a while ago.
Ann: “So how do you feel that you got a new sister?”
Ivan: “I’m not too thrilled. But it’s ayt.”
Ann: “Where is she btw?”
Ivan: “Well, she’s downstairs, with her mom. Perhaps at the kitchen.”
James: “For the love of God, I’m trying to study here. With your nonchalant talking, I cannot concentrate nor can I hear Tricia’s voice. So please, step out of the room, now.”
Ann: “Bes, I’ll just go out of the room. Sorry James. I really am, sorry.”
Ivan: “James, keep your cool.”
James pushed Ivan and Ann out of the room and closed the door.
Ann: “So you mean, Devon is your half sister? I CANNOT believe it. Really!”
Ivan: “How’d you know her?”
Ann: “Well, she’s this girl in our school. Not my friend, but she’s in my squad.”
Ivan: “So she’s a great dancer?”
Ann: “You can say that.”
Ivan brought Ann to the living room and sat there with her, watching TV. Moments later, Harold called his son for a short talk on business. Feeling alone, Ann texted Tricia.
Ann (text): “Bes, what’s taking so long?”
Tricia (text): “We’re halfway there. Sorry bes!”
Seeing this, James got hold of Tricia’s phone.
James: “Let’s focus on this so we can finish quickly. I don’t want to get hold of you for so long.”
James placed the cellphone in his back pocket. An hour has passed, and they’re still not done. Ann went up and knocked on the boys’ room.
James shouted “We’re not yet done!”
Ann shouted back “Your mom’s calling you over for dinner. Maybe you should stop studying and take a bite first.”
James opened the door, smiled at Ann, and went down the stairs. Tricia soon went out of the room.
Ann: “Bes, are you ok? You look sick.”
Tricia: “Yes, a bit tired. I had to start from scratch. He DOES NOT know ANYTHING about Physics, AT ALL!”
Ann: “You can do this friend! I know you can. Remember, you never back down from any challenge. Remember that.”
The two girls soon followed James, and had dinner with the family. Betty called on Lillian and Devon to eat with them, being part of the family. They were hesitant at first, but Betty insisted, making them feel like they really belong.
Chapter 10: One Clumsy Girl
Dinner’s over, and Tricia and James went back to the room to finish the tutoring. Ann insisted on going with them to room. Ivan soon followed to get some papers for this father.
As they were entering the room, Tricia slipped and got hold of James’ arms. James landed on top of Tricia, and with their face near each other’s, Tricia had a sudden flashback of the kiss. Ivan, looking disturbed, ran towards them, and helped Tricia stand-up. James briefly touched his lips. Seeing this, Ann pulled Tricia aside.
Ann: “Did he kiss you?”
Tricia: “Hell no! I wouldn’t let him!”
Ann: “Then why is he touching his lips?”
Tricia: “I don’t know about this strange man.”
Tricia and James proceeded with their study, with Ann constantly texting someone else. After about an hour of studying, at 9 PM, they finally finished, much to Ann’s relief.
James: “Thank you so much Tricia! Thanks for your patience.”
Tricia: “It’s nothing, really.”
James gave Tricia a hug, as Ivan was passing by. He somehow ran to the room, and went inside, which startled James, Ann and Tricia.
Ivan: “What’s happening here?”
Tricia: “Oh, nothing. We just finished studying.”
Ann: “Yeah, FINALLY. After ten years, they’re done.”
Ivan: “I guess I better drive you home now, Tricia. And Ann.”
Ivan: “On second thought, it’s quite late. Why don’t you stay here for the night. The both of you. We have a guest room anyway.”
Tricia: “But Ann’s mom might worry. She’s in charge for the both of us right now as my parents are in Davao.”
Ann: “Don’t worry bes, I’ve got it covered.”
Ivan: “See Trish? You don’t have to worry about anything!”
As Ivan was escorting Tricia and Ann to their room, Tricia again slipped, and this time got hold of Ivan’s arms. Ivan fell on top of Tricia, and once again, Tricia had a flashback of the kiss.
James ran towards the two, but Ivan already helped himself and Tricia up.
Ivan: “You slipped twice today. You’re one clumsy girl Trish.”
Tricia: “I am not!”
Tricia almost slipped again. Good think Ann was there beside her.
Ivan: “See what I mean?”
Ann, Tricia and Ivan giggled. Ann looked back, and saw James glaring.
Chapter 11: Confusion
In his mind, James was asking himself:
James: “What is wrong with me? Am I jealous at them? Why am I feeling this way? Why…”
When suddenly, he was interrupted. Ivan entered the room.
Ivan: “James, what’s wrong?”
James: “I don’t know. We’ve only met them for a day and yet I’m feeling something already.”
Ivan: “James, get hold of yourself. Don’t act like a playboy again.”
Ivan left James in their room for a while. Overhearing what has transpired, Ann knocked on James’ room, and entered, leaving the door open. Ivan saw Tricia approaching and decided to wait for her.
Ann: “Hey James. What’s with the pouty face?”
James: “Nothing.”
Ann: “You look like someone has robbed you of something special.”
James: “Perhaps.”
Ann: “Don’t worry, there’s more to life than lost opportunities.”
James: “Wow, that’s rather new. Haven’t heard that from anyone yet.”
Ann: “And that’s because you met me just recently.”
James and Ann laughed. Ivan and Tricia veered their attention towards the open door.
Tricia: “They seem to be having fun.”
Ivan: “You bet they are. Don’t worry, I’ll make your night even more fun.”
Ivan brought Tricia out to their veranda, and showed her the Marikina valley at night. With all those lights, the valley was luminous, and beautiful. It was as if the whole valley was filled with differently-colored fireflies soaring through the skies. Tricia texted Ann to go down quickly.
Tricia: “This is so beautiful!”
Ivan: “Just like yourself.”
Tricia: “Why, thank you, Ivan.”
Ivan: “But you really are.”
Tricia blushed at this. She never thought she’d hear these words uttered by anyone.
Ivan: “Perhaps if you let go of this clip, and the headband. There.”
James saw all this as Ann had asked him to go down to meet Tricia at the veranda. He felt a certain tingling in his tummy, a certain tear in his heart. What could it be?
Chapter 12: We’re Brothers after all
The girls stayed at the Dorschner residence overnight. In the morning, as James was still asleep, Ivan drove Tricia and Ann to Ann’s house, where he met with Ann’s mom and Tricia’s parents. They were pleased at the hospitality of the Dorschners.
As Ivan was leaving Ann’s house, he got a call from James.
James (on the phone): “Why did you leave without me?”
Ivan: “You were soundly asleep so I thought it would be best not to wake you up.”
James: “And you would know better, right. Maybe you did this on purpose.”
Ivan: “No, I did not. Why would you think of such a thing? We’re brothers for heaven’s sake!”
James: “Yeah right. Whatever dude.”
When Ivan got home, he immediately went up to his shared room.
Ivan: “What’s wrong with you James? You were never like that to me. We were best buds!”
James: “And I thought you’re my big brother.”
Ivan: “Well, yes I am!”
An awkward silence ensued.
James: “I’m sorry. I’m out of my mind these past few days. First, learning about Devon. Then meeting these girls. I don’t even know what I’m feeling right now. I’m a bit overwhelmed. I’m sorry, bro.”
Ivan: “James, you know you can always talk to me. We’re brothers. You can tell me everything.”
James then proceeded to tell Ivan of his feelings, on learning about their half sister, about her feelings for the two girls, one of them being her crush. James felt that this is too much for a few days.
The weekend has passed, and it’s Monday again. Ivan and James went on with their normal routine. Ivan brought James to school, and proceeded to work. James went to class with Tricia, and waited with her until 5 PM, when Ann’s practice finishes. Ivan arrives not a second later to pick them all up.
The friendship between the four of them, and their parents for that matter, deepened.
Chapter 13: Jealousy
The Dorschners are in the country for three weeks now. Harold Dorschner is having a difficulty locating an investor for his business expansion project. Devon, forced by Lillian to work for the Dorschners amidst being a daughter of Harold’s, is still reluctant to accept the truth about her real father.
Amidst her disbelief, Betty Dorschner accepted Devon as her step daughter, much like how she accepted Ivan as her step son. She has made sure that there’s nothing going on between her husband and Lillian, even going the distance of befriending Lillian.
Ivan had no problems dealing with his new step sister. After all, he had the same feeling when Betty entered his life as his new step mom. He felt overjoyed in getting a brother, in the person of James. He seems to have no problem in having an additional member of their family.
Perhaps it’s James who’s having the hardest time accepting the truth. Being the rebel that he is, he always contradicts whatever his parents want him to do. With his parents and brother readily accepting Devon, he was rude to Devon, asking her to cook for him every now and then, and making her clean his room everyday, much to Devon’s chagrin.
As Devon was cleaning the boys’ room, she saw a folded bond paper on one of the tables. She opened it and read:
Dear Tricia,
I couldn’t keep my eyes off you. Ever since we met, my mind has just been full of you. You have made my life brighter. Each day I’m with you, I feel refreshed. Ever since that time when our lips momentarily joined, amidst it being a mere accident, I couldn’t resist you anymore. I think I’m falling for you, Tricia. Please be mine.
The letter ended without any trace of who wrote it. Was it James or Ivan?
Devon decided to keep the letter. Tricia, being Ann’s bestfriend, and Ann as the leader of Dance Troupe, Devon felt she can use the letter as leverage against Ann. She wanted to be the Dance Troupe leader. In her eyes, Ann’s persistence and status in life made her the leader of the group. In her eyes, even if she’s the better dancer, due to her being poor, she can never be the Troupe leader.
James and Ivan were back home, and they immediately went to their room. Moments later, James went down to the kitchen and asked “Has anyone seen a bond paper folded in half? I left it on my table earlier today.” Fearing he will get angry, no one dared to answer James’s question. James, in an angry mood, hastily left the kitchen and went back in his room.
Not a second later, Ivan went to the kitchen and asked the same line
Ivan: “Has anyone seen a bond paper folded in half? It was just in my room earlier today.”
Lillian: “What is it that you are looking for, iho?”
Ivan: “Oh, it’s something rather important to me. And I can’t seem to find it.”
Devon: “Mom, I need some help here. Mom…”
Lillian: “Wait a sec. Devon. Don’t worry Ivan. You’ll surely find it. It’s just here, somewhere. I’m sure of that. I’ll help you find it.”
Ivan: “You’re really the best Yaya Lillian.”
Lillian: “Anything for you, Ivan.”
Devon felt a sudden rush of jealousy and anger. How can her own mother put a stranger first before her? She vowed not to return the folded paper she got.
Chapter 14: One Hot Summer Day
Ivan and James spent the whole night looking for their missing papers. But to no avail. They can’t find what they’re looking for.
It was 7 AM when suddenly the doorbell rang. Ivan opened the door. It was Ann and Tricia. They were ready for the camping trip this weekend. Harold and Betty invited them for a weekend up the hills of Mt. Makiling, along with their sons, Lillian and Devon. Yolly, Ann’s mom, was supposed to join them but she suddenly fell ill and decided it would be best for her to stay home.
They got to their camp site by 11 AM. Harold, Ivan and James volunteered to set-up the tents. Betty, Lillian and Devon set-off to look for firewood.
Ann: “Trish, I don’t think I’d be able to help setting up these tents. You should go do that. I’ll go with Devon here, to look for more food and wood.”
Tricia: “But Ann…”
Ann winks. “Remember, the… kiss <whispers>”
Tricia: “Shhhh! Ann!”
Harold: “Tricia, you better start setting-up your tent. My tent is good. I’m going to do Lillian’s and Devon’s next.”
Ivan: “We’re almost done with ours too, dad!”
The sun was shining brightly, and Ivan and James were feeling hot. They removed their upper garment while finishing their tent. Meanwhile, Tricia can’t seem to even start. She has no idea on what she’s doing. For someone so smart, this has got to be frustrating for her.
The firewood girls are back, bringing with them wood for burning and some fruits for them to eat.
Ann: “Trish, I think we’ve been gone for more than an hour and yet you’re still not done?”
Tricia: “I’m sorry Ann. I’m just clueless about this. Ugh!”
Ann: “You’re missing the view, sister.”
Tricia: “The what?”
Ann: “I mean, the scenery. Look at those trees, and the beautiful sun!”
Ann: “Oh my God, they’re coming this way. They’re coming this way!!!”
Tricia: “Who?”
Ivan: “Hello girls. Seems like you’re having some difficulty with your tent, Trish.”
Tricia looks back, and is startled. “I… I… No. I’m okay.”
James: “Get out of the way. You’re such a slowpoke.”
Tricia stands up and pinches James’ arms “I am NOT! Jerk!”
Ivan: “James. Get a hold of yourself. That’s not right.”
Ivan and James finished the girls’ tent before sunset. Lillian has cooked dinner for the group. During dinner, James kept on teasing Tricia. Teasing her about class, about being a nerd among things. Ivan constantly scolded his brother and reminded him to straighten up. By 9 PM, Harold, Betty and Lillian went to bed. After cleaning up, Devon went inside their tent as well. Not long after, Tricia and Ann decided to call it a night.
Ivan: “I don’t know what to make of today. We’re here in the Philippines for work, and yet dad and I can’t seem to find any.”
James: “Oh, I’m here to find girls, and nothing more. Seems like I’ve got two waiting for me.”
Ivan: “Don’t be such an *** James. They’re our friends. Better respect them.”
Ivan left James alone outside. James was thinking to himself. Why did he say all those things? All-day long, he has not done any good to Tricia. James fell asleep outside their tent.
At 2 AM, a sudden ring was heard from Harold’s phone. It was Joe calling, Devon’s brother. He said that something has happened to his dad that Devon and Lillian need to go home immediately. Harold woke Betty, Lillian and Devon up.
Harold: “Anyone with a piece of paper?”
Perhaps not yet fully awake, Devon gave the folded bond paper he got from the boys’ room. The letter read:
Ivan,
Joe, Devon’s brother, called up. Something has happened and we needed to get home. You’ll be in charge. Incidentally, I found the manuscript I asked you to keep. It’s in my office. Don’t worry about it anymore.
Love,
Dad
The four of them quietly packed-up, getting only their personal things and tent, leaving all the food behind. They were very careful not to wake-up James, who was sleeping near the fire pit.
Please re-read Chapter 14. I added an additional line, which is important to the story
Chapter 15: The Lost Sheep
5:30 AM: The first strokes of sunlight began hitting the ground. James woke up as the sun’s rays were right on his eyes. He saw a familiar piece of paper near the fire pit. The wind suddenly blew and the paper is almost atop the fire pit. James sprang up from his dirt bed and caught the piece of paper right before it got burned. James uttered to himself: “Good catch my boy!”
He read the paper as he is holding it now. It’s a letter from their dad to Ivan. James decided to leave it near their tent so Ivan can read it when he wakes up.
James went out for a walk, thinking it would be best to look for fresh fruits so the girls can have something refreshing to eat.
5:45 AM: James still cannot find a fruit-bearing tree. He decided to go deeper into the woods. Armed with a bolo, he felt he would be safe. After all, the sun has already risen.
6:00 AM: Finally, James saw a mango tree. As he was trying to pick up fresh mango from the tree, he slipped, down the slope. The soil was moist, and he could not find anywhere to hold on to. He ended up rolling down the slope, and into a shallow cave, just enough to give him shelter. He’s injured, and he cannot walk up by himself.
7:00 AM: Ivan woke-up, and saw the letter written by his dad, putting him in charge of the camp. He then saw the reverse of the letter, written by his brother James to Tricia. He cannot believe that James has actually fallen in love with the girl he is eying. After all, James does not believe in love, or so he thought.
7:10 AM: Ivan went out of their tent, and saw the girls cooking corned beef. The three of them ate, and Ivan explained the circumstances as to why the adults and Devon are gone. All three were wondering where James is.
7:30 AM: Tricia and Ann cleaned up their utensils, leaving behind a handful for James.
7:45 AM: Tricia insisted that they look for James. He might be in trouble. Ann agreed.
Chapter 16: An Unprecedented Mistake
As they were preparing to leave camp, Ann found the piece of paper near the boys’ tent. He read the letter actually written by James for Tricia. She immediately concluded that it was written by Ivan, with the remarkable depth in character, and the seeming maturity in the tone of the letter. She could not have been any more wrong.
With this idea of Ivan confessing his love for Tricia through a letter, and being Tricia’s first, albeit accidental, kiss, solidified in her mind, Ann has come up with a plan. She let Tricia and Ivan go ahead in search for James. She’ll just follow, from a distance, to give time for Ivan to make his move. She felt she’s doing the right thing for her best friend. And James could be hers. Oh how the stars seem to align together, in her mind.
8:00 AM: Tricia lead the search for James. Ivan was trailing, but Ann, putting her plan to action, pushed Ivan to go ahead.
Ivan: “Are you sure you’re okay bringing in the rear, Ann?”
Ann: “Oh don’t worry about me. I’ll be here. I’ll shout if I run into any problems! Promise. Go ahead!”
Ivan: “If you say so.”
Ivan and Tricia began talking, perhaps to pass time, or to not feel just how tiring their hike is. One can hear laughs from time to time, much to Ann’s happiness. She’s happy for her bes, and feels the kilig of Ivan being Tricia’s first kiss.
Tricia: “I didn’t know it would be fun talking to you, Ivan. I know it seems weird. We’re all worried for James, and it might not be the right time to laugh, but you do make me laugh, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Well, maybe it’s just that you spend so much time with James, in summer class and tutoring, that we got no time to talk, when you’re hanging out in our house.”
Tricia: “Ann told me about your story, when we talk late at night. You two seem to be getting closer.”
Ivan: “Uhm, I guess Ann and I are closer than you and I, mainly because you’re busy with James.”
Tricia: “Busy with James?”
Ivan: “Yeah.”
Tricia: “Are you jealous of my time with your brother that you don’t have solo time with him anymore?”
Ivan laughs: “What are you talking about? No, it’s not that. I’m merely saying that we don’t get much time to get to know each other that much, until today. I guess from now on, you’ll make time for me?”
Tricia suddenly slipped. Ivan got hold of her arms, saving her from falling to the depths of the slopy hills. Ann rushed to the two.
Ann: “Bes! Are you okay? Thank heavens Ivan here is strong and mighty to save you. Oh, much like the prince saving Snow White from eternal stupor with a kiss.”
Ensuring that Tricia’s safe, Ivan pulled Ann aside.
Ivan: “Ann, did you happen to read the letter?”
Ann: “Oh this? <showing him the letter written by James>”
Ivan: “Yes, that.”
Ann: “Yes, I did! So you’re Tricia’s accidental kiss ei?”
Tricia: “Guys, guys, I think I hear someone screaming! Come quick!”
Even before Ivan can utter another word, both him and Ann rushed to Tricia’s side.
Ivan: “Where did you hear the screams?”
Tricia: “Somewhere there! <pointing to her left>”
Ivan: “Ok. Here are flares. You girls go there <pointing to the left>, while I’ll go the other way. If you found James, or you simply couldn’t find your way back, light a flare. I’ll come your way.”
Ann: “Maybe Ivan, you should go with Tricia. I’ll go there <pointing to the right>. It’s the main path anyway. I’ll surely be able to find my way back.”
Ivan: “Are you sure about this?”
Tricia: “Bes, you sure?”
Ann: “I’m positive. I helped Yaya Lillian and your mom find fruits right? I’ve walked this way yesterday. I’ll bring some flares, just to be safe.”
Ivan: “Set your watches. If in an hour we don’t find James, we go back to the camp, and call for help.”
Ann: “Okay! You guys take care. I can handle this!”
Chapter 17: Separate Paths
Tricia: “So you and James are half brothers right? Doesn’t that fact disturb you a bit? It isn’t that easy to accept someone new in your life, let alone someone who isn’t your full-blood brother.”
Here I go again, over-thinking, over-sharing. Maybe Ivan here will get turned off by me. James hates me. He stares at me everytime we meet, as if I did something wrong to him. And now here I go ruining it with Ivan.
Ivan: “No, it doesn’t bother me. I have accepted the fact that dad moved on quite quickly. James is my half brother. We share the same dad. And mom has been great to me. She treated me like her own.”
It’s a good thing that Ivan here doesn’t mind my constant questioning. He’s so kind and handsome. Nice and cute. Gentle and… perfect. I may be a nerd, but I surely know how to look at a guy. Ivan is just perfect. How I wish he would like me. But he seems to fancy Ann more than me. And Ann, well. Her stories are just full of boys.
*Flashback to the Dorschner’s first two weeks in the Philippines: At Ann’s House*
Ann: “Bes! Did you see how James stared at us today? His eyes are just heavenly.”
Tricia: “He stared at us? He’s freaky. In class, he always bugs me about the lessons being taught.”
Ann: “He does? Quite freaky indeed. But his brother, he’s just so kind.”
Tricia: “And handsome.”
Ann: “Bes, is that you? Did you just say that he’s handsome?”
Tricia: “Well, he is. Anyway, I often see the two of you talking while waiting for me and James finish with the tutoring.”
Ann: “He’s such a good conversationalist. You know, he can make you feel at ease almost instantly.”
Tricia: “Really? I haven’t really had the chance to get to know him.”
Ann: “Oh he’s the nicest guy in the world, Trish! He’s an angel sent from above!”
*End of Flashback*
I love Ann. She brings out the best in me. Ann has been my best friend since the third grade, and her family has been my extended family since then. My parents are always in Davao for our business, and I’m usually left alone in my house. Ann always invites me over, whenever my parents are out. She’s such a great friend. And well, she seems to like Ivan a lot, and no matter how much I like Ivan, I won’t compromise my friendship with Ann. I’ll let this tingling feeling I have for Ivan go. There are many fish in the sea. And I don’t think I’m ready for that anyway.
Ivan: “Trish? Trish? Are you ok?”
Tricia: “…”
Ivan: “Did I say anything wrong? Trish? Hello?”
Tricia: “Oh, oh, I’m so sorry. I’m just thinking about something.”
Ivan: “James again?”
Tricia: “Huh?”
Ivan: “Don’t worry. I get it. You’re worried about James. It’s fine.”
Why is Ivan acting weird all of a sudden? Did I do anything wrong
Ivan: “Oh what the heck. We’re with another Y path. I think we should go this way. <pointing to the left>”
Tricia: “You sure about that? I feel that James is somewhere here <pointing to the right>. I have a strong feeling about this.”
The path to the right is very steep, filled with thorny bushes and gloomy trees. The path to the left is less treacherous, filled with tall, fruit-bearing trees.
Ivan: “No. I’m pretty sure he’s not there. He won’t be that stupid to go to dangerous paths.”
Tricia: “If you say so.”
Did we make the right choice?
Chapter 18: Lost
Oh my God! Where am I? I can’t believe that in my fascination of true love that I let myself go by myself in this stupid, stinky, scary forest!
*Flashback*
Ever since I was a child, I have always believed in true love. I know that there’s a prince charming waiting for me out there. Someone who will truly love me and never let go of me. Someone unlike my father, who left mom when I was still a baby.
Mom has said a thousand times that she loved dad. She always told me to never hold grudges against him for leaving us. Mom always said that dad has reasons in doing so. And I always believed that. I never questioned what mom told me.
Dad always visited us, from time to time. He remained single all these years. And so I thought that maybe he still loves mom. I had this idea that dad just left us not because he loved someone else, but mainly due to my grandparents, who never faced us. Maybe that’s the reason for all this.
Just this summer, as Trish and I were going to the mall, to buy her Physics book and my new dress, I saw dad. I thought of running towards him to give him a hug, when I saw a girl, not much older than I was, with him. I decided to follow them. Is this dad’s new girl? Replacing mom, for someone my age? That’s just crazy!
Trish and I followed them. They entered Pancake House, and met this woman, a little younger than mom. Tricia and I hid behind this stall right in front of Pancake House. Dad gave the woman a kiss. And I read from the young girl’s mouth that she called dad “Papa”.
My almost perfect world crumbled. Dad has another family, and has a child that’s almost my age. So that’s the reason why dad left us. Then why would mom say that I shouldn’t get angry at dad? Won’t mom feel cheated that dad has another child the same age as I am?
I confronted mom when I got home. She finally confessed the truth. She’s the other woman. She let dad go to be with the woman he truly loves. Mom knows that what she had with dad is just a fling, and no matter what she does, she will always be the other woman. That’s it and there’s nothing more she can do.
*End of Flashback*
Good thing my bestfriend Tricia was there with me, to be a shoulder to cry on, to be the strong force in those trying times. And inasmuch as I became disillusioned with love, I still cannot force myself to not feel the happiness that makes my heart jump whenever I see true love happening to people I love and cherish.
And Ivan, oh Ivan, who loves my dear Tricia. I would do anything, even going through this dirty forest by myself.
<ring!> Oh my. It’s already time for us to meet again. How will I find my way back? Oh I hope James is just okay. Who knows, maybe he’s back in the camp site already? I hope so. I wouldn’t wish him ill amidst all of Tricia’s horrific stories. I believe that James is a good person, deep inside that hard shell of his. He seems nice, treating me with utmost respect. And those beautiful glaring eyes. Oh I can see his soul through his eyes. Could he be my Prince Charming?
***
It’s been thirty minutes, and I still cannot find my way back. Where am I??? Better use one of my flares. The sun might set soon. It might get dark, and I won’t find my way back.
Chapter 19: Fear
Tricia: “Look, Ivan! Up there. Someone lit a flare. It might be Ann! She might have found James! Hurry!”
Ivan: “I surely hope so. It’s getting dark. The sun will set soon.”
We ran like there’s no tomorrow, towards the flare. In a matter of minutes, we found our way to Ann. She’s dirty all-over, and doesn’t seem to be all too excited.
Ann: “Thank goodness you’re here already! I’ve been waiting for like…”
Tricia: “Where’s James?”
Ann: “Oh, I didn’t get to find him yet. I just got so lost that I had to use the flares. It’s getting dark, you know, and I don’t want to be stuck in this musty forest by myself!”
Tricia: “Oh Ann! I really thought you found James already. You got us both pumped up. Poor James. I’m sure he’s all alone.”
Ivan: “He can handle it. Don’t get ahead of yourself Trish. Who knows, maybe he’s back at camp already.”
Ann: “Ivan, YOUR Prince. is right, bes! Don’t worry too much.”
Tricia: “My what?”
Ann: “I didn’t say anything. Let’s just head back.”
I could not stop the smirk in my face. Upon hearing those words from Ann. I touched my lips as we were going back to camp, remembering the story of how Prince Phillip kissed Aurora to do away with the curse of eternal sleep.
*Flashback*
When my mom died, Lillian took care of me. She was then my nanny. Dad said that he fell in love with Lillian months after mom died. Lillian took good care of dad and I. But then she was deported to the Philippines for being an illegal alien. Dad had no idea that she was in the US illegally. Dad could not do anything but bid Lillian a sad goodbye.
A year after, he met Betty, who later on became my step mom. James entered my life as my younger brother. Unlike the horror stories of step moms, Betty took good care of me, just as how Lillian took care of me. Betty raised me like her own, not minding that I am dad’s child from his first wife.
I learned from Betty how to be accepting of people’s faults. There’s no perfect human, she always says. We have to learn to accept that fact.
She also taught me about true love. That first love isn’t necessarily your true love. In her case, dad wasn’t her first love. She had a long-time boyfriend from high school, who died when they were about to get married. Betty gave love another chance, and she married dad.
She says that dad is her true love, her true heart, but not her twin heart, her soul mate. She always affirmed and believed that her dead former fiancé was her twin heart, and that no one could replace him as that. Dad didn’t mind this, for he knows that he is Betty’s true love, her true heart.
*End of Flashback*
We reached camp before dusk. James was nowhere in sight. He still isn’t back from his early morning stride.
Tricia: “Ivan, you should use your cellphone to call for help. We can’t do this by ourselves anymore.”
Ivan: “I’ll try. For sure there’s signal here up in the mountains. We’re not too far away from civilization anyway.”
Ivan: “Crap! My phone’s dead!”
Ann: “Here, use mine, although it’s Sun Cell so I don’t know if it will work since the sun is already setting.”
Tricia: “Very funny Ann. Haha. <sarcastic>”
Ivan: “It’s not working either, Ann. No reception from up here.”
Ann: “See, I told you, it won’t work here. The sun has already set.”
Ivan: “This is what’s gonna happen tomorrow. We will continue our search for James once the sun rises. We will not waste a single minute. We have to find him. He’s my brother, your friend, after all.”
Tricia suddenly stood up and hugged me.
Tricia: “Oh Ivan, I hope James is safe. He’s all alone in the woods, and his grumpy attitude won’t help.”
In my mind, I thought to myself, will Tricia be this worried had I gone missing instead?
Chapter 20: Alone
I’m all by myself. The thorns from those rose bushes pierced through my jeans. My favorite jeans! They’re ruined. And I had to use parts of my shirt to tie around my legs to stop them from bleeding.
I tried standing up, but my left leg and ankle aren’t cooperating. I keep on stumbling down. Good thing some fruits fell with me to this little cave.
I tried shouting for hours, but no one responded. I heard footsteps nearby, but they weren’t human. I had to stop moving and shouting or else animals might gather and eat me alive, especially with blood all over me.
The sun has set. And with my jeans torn, and my shirt basically gone, I’m surely going to have a cold night. I sure hope I won’t get sick. I have to conserve my energy. Good thing Monday was declared a holiday so we don’t have to go back immediately. I have to do something by tomorrow, or else they might leave me behind. I know Ivan won’t do such a thing to me, but who knows. The girls are with him, and he has work to do for dad.
*Flashback*
My childhood was nice, but not perfect. Even if I’m mom’s real child, I always felt that she loves Ivan more. Perhaps mom’s trying to make Ivan feel that he’s welcome in the family, even if she’s not mom’s own child. But whatever, I’m mom’s real child, so she should love me more.
I always felt that dad is disappointed with me. I always was second best in the family. My grades are always lower than Ivan’s. He’s the better athlete. He’s older. He’s taller. He’s got it all. And I’ll always be second to him, in the eyes of dad, and everyone else on that matter.
I’m not a real rebel. I only appear to be such because I want to get noticed. I want people to love me as much as they love Ivan, or even more. But I don’t hate Ivan. He’s my brother after all. And perhaps what I got from mom is that family should be loved.
Mom always told us stories of her true love, dad, and her twin heart or soul mate, her dead ex-fiancé. I never really believed in such. All I know is that mom loves dad, and dad loves mom. And this dead guy is just a person from mom’s past. I never really cared about who he is, or what his story is about. Although I still don’t believe in true love and such. For me, so long as there’s a mutual feeling and understanding, then you can hit it off.
*End of Flashback*
Oh it’s getting colder alright. I can feel the chilly winds even if it’s summer.
What’s that? Oh man, I hear some thunders rolling. It might rain soon. And I thought it’s summer time. It shouldn’t rain hard. Perhaps it’s just a drizzle. It will pass. I can make it.
Chapter 21: Nightmare
It was a tiring day. Trish and I went to our tent early. Ivan wanted us to sleep early tonight. We still don’t know where James is. But I hope he’s safe. My prince charming will be safe, that I know. I never thought that it would be the other way around. In my world of fairy tales, it is always the princess aka ME, who needs saving. Such an irony that in real life, it is the princess (or the other prince and her princess) who will save the missing prince.
Ann: “Bes, today was such a tiring day. I tripped all over, and dirt’s all over me. My gosh! Eew!”
Tricia: “All for James.”
Ann: “Eh?”
Tricia: “I mean, we got to do some sacrifices of our own. We cannot just leave him behind. He’s still our friend.”
Ann: “Right… Right.”
Ann: “You know what bes, being by myself made me think about dad, and you know.”
Tricia: “Oh bes, are you ok? How are you holding up?”
Ann: “It’s cool. I’m ok now bes. I have accepted the reality of it all. Just made me think when I was alone.”
I lied. I haven’t really gotten over the fact that I am an illegitimate child of my father. It’s heart-breaking to know the truth, after living my 15 years of lies. It’s like my heart stopped beating. But I can’t make myself the center of attention. We are in search of someone living, not of someone dying.
***
I suddenly found myself swimming towards this wonderful beach. The rock formations were breath-taking. Fish of all sizes were swimming with me. Beautiful birds were flying above.
As I reached the beach, I was forced to crawl towards this cave. I suddenly had no power to stand-up. My feet were bound together, and scales were beginning to cover my legs. I was turning into a mermaid!
***
I suddenly woke-up, crying. For a dancer such as I, having my feet bound is the ultimate hell. My feet = my life. I’m the best dancer in school. I’m the leader of the dance troupe. I cannot lose my precious feet!
I looked at my watch. It’s just 4 AM. I decided to take a stroll. Just to get that nightmare out of my head.
An hour has passed, and both Tricia and Ivan are still asleep. I have to cook food now, so we can leave early. James is still somewhere in the woods. I hope he’s safe.
Ann: “Trish, Ivan, it’s time to wake-up! The sun is about to shine! Come eat your breakfast.”
Chapter 22: Lost and Found
Ivan: “This time, I’ll be going alone. You two go together.”
Tricia: “We’ll light a flare once we find James. You do the same. I’m confident about this, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Set your watches. Remember, we only have until 4 before we have to head back.”
Ann: “I packed some food for us to eat. I placed some in your backpack Ivan.”
Ivan: “Thanks Ann. You’re the best.”
Tricia: “Of course she is.”
Ann: “What’s with the sarcastic tone Trish?”
Tricia: “Nothing. Sorry about that bes. I’m just… nevermind.”
Ann to Tricia: “You’re so jealous! Friend, he’s not into me, I’m sure of that!”
Tricia: “What?”
Ann: “Oh don’t be so unassuming. I know you know what I mean.”
Ivan: “Girls, I’ll go ahead. See you in a few hours.”
Tricia and Ann walked for hours. They kept talking about Ann’s dad, about the family that he has. Ann also confessed about the dream that she just had earlier today.
It’s 12 noon, when the rain began to fall. Tricia and Ann reached the Y-path again. Another dilemma for Tricia as to where to go. Last time they went to the smoother path, and Ann seems to want to go that way.
Tricia had a strong feeling about the more treacherous path before. And her gut is telling her to go there again, stronger than before.
Tricia: “Believe me bes, I’m confident that James went through here. Please bes, believe me!”
Ann: “But bes, it’s raining, and the path’s rather scary.”
Tricia: “But bes! I really have a strong feeling about this.”
Ann: “Ok ok, let’s go there. But promise me, we will head back if the rain gets any stronger.”
Tricia: “Promise bes!”
An hour has passed, and the rain has stopped. They’re so deep in the woods that they fear that they cannot find their way back. They’re lost. Every tree seems to be the similar to each other. But Tricia and Ann kept moving forward. They know they have to find James. It’s now or never.
They were losing hope, until they saw a piece of clothing torn near a rose bush.
Tricia: “This is part of James’ shirt. He’s got to be here somewhere. James! James!”
Ann: “James! Where are you?”
Hearing this, James shouted back: “Hey, anyone, I’m down here!”
Tricia: “Bes, let’s go down there. James is there! Come on!”
Ann: “Go ahead bes, I’ll just light a flare to let Ivan know that we’ve found James.”
Tricia began her descent. It’s not too far from the path they’re taking. The slope’s rather slippery, so she’s proceeding with immense caution.
Chapter 23: Salvation
I’m shivering. It’s cold and raining. I have not eaten in over 24 hours. I have been dreaming of getting out of this wretched place. The pain is killing me, but there’s nothing I can do. My ankle’s broken, and no matter how hard I try, I just can’t stand up.
Voice from afar: “James! James!”
Another voice: “James! Where are you?”
I could not believe what I’m hearing. After almost a day of hearing no one but myself, I hear voices, familiar voices.
James: “Down here! I’m down here! Please help!”
I cannot move. I cannot stand-up. The thorns are still embedded in my legs, and my ankle’s still broken. And thanks to the relentless rain, I’m shivering. This has got to be my worst nightmare.
Tricia: “James? Oh thank heavens you’re safe!”
Tricia approached me and gave me a tender hug. Seeing me bleeding, shirtless and shivering, Tricia removed her jacket and covered me with it.
Tricia: “James, hold on, I’ll just get some splints. You have a bad bruise down there.”
James: “Don’t leave me, please.”
I grabbed on to Tricia’s arm. I didn’t know what got into me. I guess hunger and pain aren’t a good combination. I can’t seem to control myself. I say or do things which I don’t normally do.
James: “Tricia, I…, I.”
Tricia: “No, James. Shhh, I’m not leaving. Just stay still. Shhh, it’s gonna be okay.”
James: “I love you Tricia. I accidentally kissed you the first time we met, and I’m sorry. But I cannot hold it any longer. Tricia, I, I love you.”
Chapter 24: Ouch
Ann and I met-up quite instantly after she fired the flare. I ran to where they were. They have found my brother. James will be safe. We hurried down the slopes, not thinking of our own safety. We ran towards where Tricia and James were.
James: “Tricia, I, I love you.”
I was held back with what I heard. James doesn’t even believe in true love!
Tricia: “Shhh, James. You don’t know what you’re saying. Help will soon arrive.”
James: “I love you, Tricia. Ever since the day we accidentally kissed, I have not stopped thinking of you. You are my…”
Tricia puts her finger on James’ lips: “Now, now. Don’t talk. We will have more time to talk when you’re feeling better.”
James is out of his mind! Saying all those things to Tricia. What is he thinking? He’s scaring the hell out of me. What more to Tricia? What more to the girl I, ….
Ann: “Hey guys, we’re here…”
Tricia: “Oh, I’m so glad to see you bes!”
Ann: “Yeah right.”
Tricia: “We have to get him out of here! He’s hot.”
Ann: “You got that right, sister.”
Tricia: “No, no. What I meant was, James has a fever. His skin is burning.”
I didn’t enter the small cave. I went to look for some splints, for we’ll surely need those. James fell down the slopes, and he would have broken bones for sure.
***
Thank heavens Ann and Ivan are here. I don’t know how I can get James out here by myself if ever. And to be honest, listening to the words James is uttering, my heart’s beating faster than normal. I don’t know what to make of it.
Tricia: “Bes, where’s Ivan?”
Ann: “He’s just right behind me a while back.”
Tricia: “Why isn’t he with you? Is he okay?”
Ivan: “I’m here. No need to worry about me. Just got some wooden planks and bamboo to use for James.”
We have to get out of here soon. James’ condition is at its worst. He hasn’t eaten anything for more than a day now. And he’s getting a little delusional.
***
The rain has stopped. Ivan tied the wooden planks and bamboo to James’ left leg and ankle so it won’t get any worse. They helped James up the slippery slopes. Ann and Tricia on each side of James, and Ivan right behind them.
The clouds have come and are now gone. The sun’s rays are penetrating through the rainforest once again.
Chapter 25: Princes and Princesses
I could not believe it. My Prince Charming's in love with my best friend? No, no, it couldn't be. Maybe he's just delusional from all the stress of being alone in the woods, all those eeky blood. Oh my prince, he's just in so much pain right now. And he saw my best friend as the person to save him. Yes, that's the reason he said all those things. You're okay Ann, you're okay. I am still Cinderalla, no doubt about that.
Ivan: "Come quick guys. We’re almost at the campsite.”
James: “Please don’t let go of me. Please…”
Tricia: “James, we’re here for you. Don’t talk now.”
We brought James to the car, for him to get some rest. Ivan and I dismantled the tents. I don’t know why bes didn’t go with us. Maybe she’s tired from all the hiking and the seemingly unending search for James. You know, my best friends’ not really the physical type. She’s not good in athletics. She’s lampa so to speak, but I love her.
Good thing Ivan’s a quick worker. He didn’t let the relentless rain stop him from his work. In a matter of minutes we were done. He’s such a strong and efficient prince, much like how Prince Philip braved the odds to save Aurora from her death spell.
James: “Ahhh! Don’t leave me!”
James: “The pain is just… ahh!”
James is getting restless. We have to leave soon!
***
Tricia made sure James was settled in the car before she opened the door. James suddenly grabbed Tricia’s arm and cemented his hands to it.
James: “Don’t leave me! Please…”
Tricia: “But they need help in dismantling the tents…”
James: “No, I don’t want to be alone anymore.”
Tricia felt the pain in James’ words. She knew how it is to be alone. Her parents have always been absent due to the family business in Davao. And James’ feelings about his family aren’t all too different.
Tricia was thinking hard on what to do. She knows how painful it is to be alone, to feel alone. Much worse, how it feels to have someone with you, and leave you in a flash. She thought of her fairy tales from childhood, and that the only way to mend a broken heart is true love’s kiss.
***
But I’m only fifteen! I cannot kiss James. We’re not even in love! He’s just in a delusional state that’s why he said all those things. And we’re not kids anymore. Think Tricia. You’re a smart girl. Think, think!
Nobody knows, not even Ann, how much of a romantic I am. I may be the nerd girl in school, but I have always dreamt of having my own prince, saving me from my own version of hell in the castle.
Oh what the heck. No one’s here. I need to pacify James. He’s getting restless. I’ll just do it.
Chapter 26: Punch and Kisses
Ivan: “What the…”
Ann: “Holy… Bes! Why did you do that?”
Ivan: “James, James, are you okay?”
Ann: “You knocked him out! Bes!”
Tricia: “I didn’t know what else to do! I tried to pacify him by kissing him, but he kissed back! He got hold of my head, and I couldn’t get out of his grip. So I slapped him.”
Ann: “You did what???”
Tricia: “I slapped him…”
Ann: “No, before that.”
Tricia: “Kiss?”
Ann: “You kissed Prince Charming? I mean, James?!?!”
Tricia: “You told me before about it, remember? That a kiss can always pacify a restless person.”
Ann: “Yes but…”
Ivan: “Tricia, you kissed him? I didn’t know you like him. How nice can this be? <sarcastic tone>”
Tricia: “Oh no, it’s not what you think! I don’t like him! Not really…”
Ivan: “Then why kiss him?”
Tricia: “To stop him from shouting. I don’t know! I didn’t know what to do!”
Ann: “Calm down Ann. Calm… Okay! Look Tricia, he is calm alright. Not because of your “kiss”, but because of your slap. Nice one, sister!”
Ivan: “Let’s just go.”
Ivan drove fast. Ann, using her now-working Sun Cellular, called Harold and informed him of the gist of what has transpired. Perhaps due to the uneven mountain road, James woke-up, and grabbed Tricia’s arm.
James: "Don't let go of me Tricia."
Tricia: "Shh, don't worry, I'll always be here for you."
Ivan suddenly pushed on the gas pedal, making Ann held on for dear life.
Ann: “Ivan, slow down! I don’t want to die!”
Tricia: “We’ll get there Ivan. Slow down!”
Ivan: “Don’t tell me what to do.”
Tricia: “Ivan, what’s wrong with you? You’re not like this before.”
Silence ensued. Aside from James’ sobs and moans from pain, nothing else could be heard.
***
After an hour, we finally reached Medical City, where Harold and Betty were waiting for us.
Harold: “What happened Ivan? I put you in charge, and this happened?”
Ivan: “But dad…”
Betty: “Harold, don’t blame Ivan. I’m sure it’s not his fault this happened. Freak accidents could always happen.”
Ivan: “Thanks mom. It’s a long story.”
Betty gave his son a hug and a kiss on his cheek. Together with Harold and Tricia, we rushed James to the ER. Ivan and Betty soon followed.
Nurse: “Ma’am, sir, you have to move. We have protocols to follow.”
James: “Tricia, don’t… let… go… of… me…”
Tricia: “James, it’s ok. We’re in the hospital. You’re safe now.”
She rushed to my side, with tears rolling from her eyes. I must say that I’m a bit jealous of my best friend. She was with my Prince Charming. She kissed my Prince Charming. One lucky girl right?
Tricia: “Bes, Ivan, I’m sorry for what happened earlier. I didn’t mean to…”
Ivan: “No, it’s okay Tricia. I know you just panicked that why you did that.”
Ann: “Admit it bes, you liked it.”
Tricia: “No bes!”
Ann: “Really?”
A sudden scream from James had us all stand-up and rush towards the ER door.
Epilogue
The same night when we rushed James to the hospital, Tricia and I had a talk. She told me everything, from the time when they were in the small cave, to the time when James didn’t let go of her arm so she can help Ivan and I get the camp stuff.
She confessed. She doesn’t like James that way. They’re just friends. And she believed in fairy tales after all. Oh my sweet best friend.
The next day, we visited James in the hospital. He was asleep, so I just watched TV. And then I noticed Tricia and Ivan talking. They seemed happy with each other’s company. Laughs break out from time to time. And so I decided to not interrupt them from their small talk. I must admit, they really look good together. And their laughs are contagious.
After a week in the hospital, James was discharged. His wounds have all healed. According to the doctor, James sustained no permanent damage.
Tricia once again became James’ tutor. After all, they’re enrolled in Physics class, and James has to catch-up once again, for being absent for that long a time. I don’t mind Tricia and James spending time together. I know what’s going on between them. Or so I thought.
By: Kapamilya06_24 / TRICIAFIERS
Prologue
Only time will heal all wounds. At least for James, only a week was needed for his bruises to heal. The mental trauma from the ordeal was a different story altogether. James had recurring nightmares, with his brother serving as his pacifier.
Betty was getting worried that her son might have suffered something deeper than what the eye can see. She consulted with Yolly, Ann’s mom, who happens to be a therapist. Betty. With Yolly’s help, Betty hopes to give his son the inner peace he once had.
But James just had to have a hard shell that Yolly cannot penetrate. James would barely talk during their sessions. Yolly told Betty of another way, but a risky one, if not monitored well.
Meanwhile, Tricia still tutored James in Physics. But the tutoring lead to something else, something that helped James get-over his near-death experience.
Everyday, after their tutoring sessions, James would confide to Tricia his true feelings. He felt that he can trust Tricia. After all, she "found" him. James felt the sincerity of Tricia that he gave his full trust to her.
Eventually, James’ nightmares disappeared. It seems as if that Tricia’s company has helped him a lot. Yolly, aware of this through her daughter Ann, felt that having Tricia as the person to whom James will confide his innermost feelings will prove beneficial for James. And she could not have been anymore right. Yolly had weekly sessions with James, just to check-up on him. By the third week, she has found James to be a lot better. He has become more open, and more willing to speak to Yolly.
Chapter 1: The End
By the end of May, Harold had to face a decision. The family has been in the country for two months now, and yet they haven’t found any investors. They can’t leave their business for so long, unless there’s enough reason. And school’s about to start in the Philippines. If they are to start an expansion in the Philippines, then they would have to enroll James in school here in the country.
Harold has made a decision. Two months has been a long time for them to look for investors. They will leave by the end of the week.
James and Ivan were saddened by this news. While at the subdivision clubhouse, the boys informed their new-found friends about their dad’s decision:
Ivan: “Trish, Ann, dad has decided that we have to leave by the end of the week if we don’t find any investor for our company.”
James: “With the economy in the US still unstable, it’s not surprising that no one wants to invest in our company.”
Ann: “That means you’ll leave us?”
James: “Well, we practically have no choice.”
Ivan: “We can’t leave the company for so long a time.”
Ann: “But, you do have a choice. You can choose to stay!”
Ivan and James: “No.”
Ivan: “It’s not that easy. I have to help dad with the business.”
James: “And they surely won’t leave me.”
Tricia was just silent the entire time. All three noticed her silence.
Ann: “Bes, why are you so quiet? This is SO not you.”
Ivan: “Don’t worry guys. If ever this does not end well in our business venture, we can still keep our friendship, right?”
James: “Trish!”
Tricia jumped from her seat.
Tricia: “What? What?”
James: <rolls eyes> “You’re at a loss again!”
Ivan: “Trish, don’t get too sad. As I said, we can still keep in touch. Don’t worry now.”
Ivan gave Tricia a tight hug. James can’t help but glare at them. Ann did not fail to notice this.
Ann: <hugs James> “Oh James, I’ll miss you.”
James: <still glaring at Trish and Ivan behind Ann> “I’ll miss you too, Ann. Both you and Tricia.”
It seems like the days are moving too quickly. The girls hanged out with the guys everyday, until their very last day.
Just as they Dorschners were about to leave their house, Harold received a call, “Hello?”
“Hi. This is Mr. Jackson. A friend of mine from Davao told me about your business plans, and I would like to have a talk with you about that” said the caller.
“That’s just great! Where should I go to meet you formally?” Harold replied.
“I’m currently in Cebu with Frida Santos. I believe you know her?” said Mr. Jackson.
“Yes. I just met her earlier this month. She’s the mother of my sons’ friend, Tricia.”
Mr. Jackson, in a bit of a hurry, “Indeed. Harold, I have your email here too. I’ll send you an email about the details. Hope to see you by the end of the week?”
Harold, quite ecstatic about the news, “Yes, yes! I’ll wait for your email.”
Harold: “Betty, sons, unpack your luggages. We have found our investor!”
James and Ivan could not hide their excitement. They left their house and went to Ann’s, to inform them of the good news.
Chapter 2: A New Beginning
I can’t seem to get myself out of my bed. I have been fighting this feeling of sadness and despair since Monday. But it seems like my pierced heart won’t heal as fast. I can’t get over the fact that my new friends will be leaving so soon. In fact, they’ll be leaving us today.
In three hours, they’ll be flying out of the country. Maybe they’re already on their way to the airport. I don’t know. How should I know? I haven’t really been myself these past few days. I’m hanging out with my best friend and the two boys, but my mind is wandering off always, thinking of the time when the boys will finally leave Bes and I.
I guess I should learn to let go. I can cry my heart out when I’m lying in my bed each night, but it will never change the fact that we will now be miles apart. I have to learn how to move on. There’s always the internet for us to have constant communication anyway.
I forced myself to stand up, and take a shower. Maybe freshening up will help me get out from this stupor.
I stayed in the bathroom for a good thirty minutes. When I got back to my room, I almost went back to sleep when I noticed my phone ringing. It was Ann calling.
Ann: “Bes! Get-up, and go to my house quickly!”
Tricia: “But why? It’s just 6:30 in the morning. I’m too lazy to go there.”
Ann: “Come quick. Promise, you’ll snap out from your trance when you see my surprise for you.”
As I did not want to disappoint my ever-loyal best friend, I went to her house. It took me a bit longer this time. When I was about to ring their doorbell, I noticed a familiar car. Someone was inside the car.
I rang the doorbell. Not even a minute has passed when Ann opened the door herself.
Ann: “Bes! Go inside now! Come!!!”
Tricia: “Hey, hey, calm down. What’s going on?”
As I entered the house, a familiar figure was standing by the kitchen hallway.
Ann: “Surprise!”
Tricia: “Is that…”
Ann: “Ivan!”
Tricia: “But how…”
Ann: “Why are they here? Because they’re not leaving anymore!”
Ivan: “Trish!” <hugged and carried Trish>
Ann: “Ehem, Ivan. Why did she get a tighter hug?”
Ivan: “Oh, oh. No, it’s not like that….”
Ann: “Just kidding! It’s not like I’m jealous.”
I was was still at a trance. It is as if I hadn’t heard a single thing. I didn’t know how to react. I am happy that they’ll be staying here. But I guess my mind is locked into them leaving that the news of them staying hasn’t penetrated my hard shell.
Ivan: <waving his hand in front of Tricia’s face> “Trish? Hello? Aren’t you happy with us staying?”
Tricia: “Oh what? Oh, no. I’m happy, of course!”
Ann: “Bes, you’re still not yourself? Ivan, she has been like this for days.”
Tricia: “Bes!”
Ivan: “Is that true? But why…”
Ann: “Because she’s afraid of losing you!”
Tricia: “Bes!!!”
Ivan: “I can’t say that I’m not touched. Come here Trish, let me give you another hug.”
Ivan hugged me one more time. I was then wondering why James wasn’t around when suddenly words came out of my mouth.
Tricia: “I thought I’m gonna lose you.”
And tears started falling from my eyes.
Ivan: “Don’t worry, I’m here. I won’t leave.”
Tricia: “I thought you’ll be gone for good. Those afternoons we spent together…”
Ivan: “Hush now.”
I don’t know what I’m saying. Good thing Ann suddenly spoke, or else I would have said something that I would regret.
Ann: “By the way, where’s James?”
Tricia: “Oh. James! Where’s James?”
I asked as I pulled away from Ivan.
Ivan: “He’s at the car. He doesn’t feel like getting all emotional.”
Tricia: “Let’s go to your car then. Surprise him!”
Ann: “Right! Let’s force him to go down. Evil me!”
All three of us hurried out to their car, and forced James to go out.
Ann: “Oh James, my prince! Why did you not go down? I thought you’ll be gone for good.”
James: “I guess I’m just too afraid of your reaction.”
Tricia: “You fool. Of course we’ll be happy!”
Ivan: “You should have seen Trish a while ago bro.”
James: “Why?”
Tricia: “It’s nothing!”
Suddenly, Ivan’s phone rang. It was his dad.
Ivan: “I’ll be home soon dad.”
James: “What’s wrong?”
Ivan: “Dad and I will go to Cebu to meet our investor. And he asked me to enroll you to school.”
Tricia: “To what school?”
Ann: “I’m guessing, our school?”
Ivan: “Yup, your school indeed. You’ll be in the same level.”
James: “But what about the requirements?”
Ivan: “Mom took care of that already. She’ll be meeting us in your new school.”
Ann and I tagged along with James and Ivan to school. I’ll be in the same school with James! And Ivan will be there to bring us home. This year ought to be fun!
Chapter 3: Pantomime
Keeping up with the charades is hard to do. Ever since the camping trip, I had to pretend to be okay. I had to prevent an outburst of rushing feelings from my swelling heart. Feelings of love and hate overflowing.
It’s the first day of school. I don’t know what to expect. I’m the new kid here, so I don’t know anyone, except Tricia, Ann and my half-sister, Devon.
Just last week, dad and Ivan went to Cebu to meet with Mr. Jackson. Everything went well, I suppose. Dad and Ivan were in the office all the time, talking about the business and finances.
Just last night, Ivan and I talked about the business.
Ivan: “It’s a good thing that Mr. Jackson’s nice enough. He agreed with our business proposal. Apparently, Tita Frida told Mr. Jackson about our business.”
James: “How did Tita Frida know?”
Ivan: “I’m guessing Trish told her mom about our business.”
James: Then this Mr. Jackson, he must be rich to just invest in our business?”
Ivan: “He is. He owns a sugar milling company. He actually lives in Bacolod, but he was in Cebu to meet Tita Frida and their classmates for a class reunion.”
James: “Sounds like Tita Frida was the key to our problem after all.”
Ivan: “I bet she put in good word about dad and our business.”
James: “Perhaps.”
Ivan: “Oh yeah, I also met with Mr. Jackson’s son, Bret. He was with this Cebuana girl. I presume that she’s his girlfriend.”
James: “Is she pretty?”
Ivan: “She is. A bit short though, but still pretty. And she’s really nice to talk to.”
James: “Wow, looks like another catch.”
Ivan: “But she has a boyfriend already!”
James: “You said you’re unsure. You just assumed that she is Bret’s girlfriend.”
Ivan: “Ah heck. Mr. Jackson and Bret are coming over next week, so you better behave yourself.”
Looks like we’re getting some company over next week.
That night, I cannot sleep. I’m too excited for the following day. My heart’s beating faster, thinking of the adjustments I have to do. School’s earlier here in Manila. Although I’m exempted from all the Tagalog classes, I still have to go through the other subjects. And as a replacement for the Tagalog subjects, I have to be part of the varsity team. I have to get in to at least one of else I’m toast.
Just this morning, I barely had sleep. I woke-up at 5:30 and took a shower. My school uniform’s just perfect for me. I went down an hour later and all of us, including Devon, had breakfast, which Yaya Lillian served.
Ivan drove both myself and Devon to school. I thought I’ll be seeing Tricia and Ann, but much to my dismay, they were not by the gate.
As Devon and I were walking down the hallway, people were staring at us. Perhaps it’s because I’m the new guy that’s why they’re all staring.
James: “Devon, why are they staring at us?”
Devon: “They are?”
Devon quickly grabbed my hand.
James: “What are you doing? We’re siblings. Half siblings. Remember?”
Devon: “Shush! They don’t know that.”
Thankfully, I had to look for my class, so Devon unclasped her hand from mine. I sifted through the list, and found that I’m put in section Diamond. Tricia and Ann were also in the same class as I.
Devon: “Hey. I’m in section Jade. How about you?”
James: “Diamond.”
Devon: “You must have high grades.”
James: “Why?”
Devon: “People from Diamond are the smartest in the batch.”
James: “Then why aren’t you there?”
Devon: “Being a scholar doesn’t mean that you’re that smart. But I guess I am smart after all.”
James: “But you’re in Jade.”
Devon: “Jade also consists of the smartest people from the batch. Unlike other schools, in our school, there can be more than one star section. It depends on how close the grades of the students are.”
James: “Then how do they divide the students into the different star sections?”
Devon: “They say it’s random.”
James: “So I guess this is goodbye. I’ll see you later by the gate.”
Devon: “But your room and my room are just adjacent to each other. Can we not go together?”
James: “I have to go pee.”
Devon: “Alright, fine. I’ll go ahead.”
After using the toilet, I went to my classroom, and found almost no seats. As I searched for familiar faces, my heart raced.
Ann: “Over here! We got you a chair!”
Ann called me out and had me seated behind Tricia. There’s this guy sitting behind Ann whom they were speaking to just before she called me out.
Ann: “James, this is Patrick, our friend. Patrick, meet James.”
Patrick: “Hey there.” <stretched his hand>
As I shook his hand, Ann began her short tale as to how they became friends with Patrick. Patrick’s their childhood friend. Their mothers are the best of friends, and so they became the best of friends as well.
Ann’s story was cut-short when the bell rang.
Chapter 4: Accident
She has the most beautiful hair. Long and shiny hair. I couldn’t take my eyes off her.
Teacher: “James. James Dorschner.”
She’s turning towards me. Her eyes are like black holes, captivating my whole soul.
Teacher: “Mr. Dorschner!”
Tricia: “James. <waves her hand> James? James!”
James: “What. What?”
Tricia: “The teacher is calling your attention. You have to introduce yourself.”
Teacher: “Mr. Dorschner. It is just the first day of classes. I don’t care if you’re new here, but you have to answer when I call on you. This is your first and final warning. The same goes for everyone.”
The bell suddenly rang. I wasn’t able to introduce myself. So much for the commotion I have caused. At least the class knows who I am now…
Teacher: “Before you go, I have an announcement to make. This class will be similar to a college preparatory class. You will be assigned research topics. One topic per group, but I expect individual outputs from different sub-topics. I have posted your groupings on the board outside the English Department. I expect each group to submit a detailed topic by tomorrow.”
Oh man. This teacher will definitely kill us. We have a 10-minute break to go to our next classroom. Someone got hold of my hand. She held my hand and made me run like hell.
Girl: “Bes, hasten up! I’m excited to see the groupings!”
James: “Uhm…”
Girl: “Come on bes, keep running!”
And she wasn’t even looking at me. She thought all along that I am her best friend. She finally let go of me when we got to the English Department. There she looked for the groupings. As she turned around to face me, horror struck her face.
James: “Hi.”
Girl: “Where’s Ann? And why are you here?”
James: “Well. You grabbed my hand and made me run like there’s no tomorrow…”
Tricia: “Oh my God! I thought it was Ann I pulled! I’m sooo sorry!”
James: “You better be careful next time.”
Tricia: “I’m really sorry. On a lighter note, we’re groupmates! You, me, Ann and Patrick.”
James: “Really? About that Patrick…”
Tricia: “Oh shocks, it’s time for our next class. We better hurry!”
Chapter 5: Daze
Tricia got hold of James’ hands and they ran towards the English Department. What is happening?
Patrick: “I was only away one summer and Tricia already got a boyfriend?”
Ann: “James? No way! He’s just a friend. We sort of had a little adventure, along with his brother Ivan, last summer.”
Patrick: “What kind of adventure?”
Ann: “It’s a long story.”
Patrick: “We have time.”
Ann: “But not now. Our next class will begin in exactly 8 minutes.”
Patrick: “Later then?”
Patrick just returned yesterday from his Summer Camp in Beijing. My own mom sent me the previous summer, to learn the Chinese language and culture. I wonder if he found someone else in that summer camp…
Patrick: “Ann, you’re lost again.”
Ann: “I’m sorry.”
Patrick: “What’s wrong?”
Ann: “Just that Bes got hold of my prince char… I mean James.”
Patrick: “Your what?”
Ann: “It’s nothing.”
Patrick: “You like James? But why did Tricia get hold of James’ hands and ran with him then?”
I don’t know what’s happening. My peaceful castle is suddenly on rocky soil.
Tricia: “Guys I’m sorry.”
Patrick: “Why did you leave all of a sudden? And with this guy.”
Tricia: “I thought it was Ann’s hand that I grabbed.”
James: “You should have seen the horror in her eyes when she saw that it was me.”
Tricia: “Shut up.”
Oh my castle’s safe again! Bes isn’t trying to steal my lovely prince. But why am I feeling this way?
Tricia: “Bes, are you okay?”
Patrick: “Don’t worry about her. She’s good.”
Tricia: <to James> “Why is she quiet all of a sudden?”
James: <to Tricia> “I was with you, remember?”
Tricia: “You sure she’s okay Patrick? She’s so pale…”
Ann: <shouting> “I’m okay!”
Tricia: “Bes?”
What did I just do? Why did I shout?
The bell suddenly rang. Good thing our classroom is just nearby. We barely made it to the classroom before the teacher started the class.
The day went by so fast. I was mum the whole time. Patrick made an excuse that I’m feeling sick that’s why I’m quiet. He’s such a good friend.
James: “Crap. She’s there again.”
Patrick: “Who?”
James: “My half-sister, Devon.”
Patrick: “What did she do this time?”
James: “Well, when I told her that people were staring at us, she suddenly held my hand. It’s sickening to think of what she did.”
Tricia: “But you’re siblings!”
James: “That’s what I said. But she didn’t listen. She said no one knows anyway.”
Tricia: “Let me handle this.”
As I kept mum about what I have been thinking about, my best friend Tricia kept asking if I was okay. But then she did something that made my heart swell even more.
Devon: “James! Wait up!”
Tricia: “Sorry Devon. James and I are going somewhere.”
Devon: “What?”
Tricia: “Go home Devon. James?”
I never thought my best friend can be this feisty. She got hold of James’ hands. Patrick and I followed the two of them, and we walked around the campus until Devon stopped following us.
James: “Thanks for that Tricia.”
Tricia: “No worries.”
James: “It’s bothersome that your own sister is doing that to you, just to get the attention of people.”
Tricia: “I can’t say I know what you’re feeling, but maybe she just wanted to be noticed.”
All this time, they’re still holding hands. My heart is feeling a certain feeling that I’ve never felt before.
Tricia: “James, I think you should let go of my hand now.”
James: “Oh my. I’m sorry. I guess I’m just so used to you holding my hands.”
What? Since when were they holding hands?
Tricia: “James. What happened this morning is an accident. I didn’t mean to drag you across the school to the English Department.”
Patrick: “Are you two already an item?”
Tricia: “What??”
That horrific tone is just so Tricia. That signals that my best friend isn’t feeling anything for James. That’s a good thing. My prince charming is still mine.
Ann: “Don’t be such a wuss Patrick. Of course they’re not together.”
Tricia: “Oh bes! You feeling better now?”
Ann: “Yes.” <coughs> “I was merely preserving my voice. It seems as if I’m losing it.”
Suddenly, Tricia’s phone rang.
Tricia: “Hello?”
Ivan: “Hi Trish. Is James with you? He isn’t answering his phone.”
Tricia: “Yes, he is. I’m with Ann and Patrick.”
Ivan: “Patrick? Is he your boyfriend?”
Tricia: “No! Of course not. He’s our best friend from childhood.”
Ivan: “Oh good.”
Tricia: “What?”
Ivan: “Nothing. Hey, are you guys done? I’m already near your school. I can pick you up.”
Tricia: “That will be great! You’re such a gentleman, Ivan.”
Ivan: “Oh it’s nothing. I’ll see you then.”
Tricia: “Bye!”
That tone. She sounded happy. Does she like Ivan?
Tricia: “James. That was your brother. He said you’re not answering your phone.”
James: “Shoot! I left it at home.”
Tricia: “Anyway. He says he’s already near. Patrick, you can come with us!”
Patrick: “Really?”
Tricia: “I told Ivan I’m gonna introduce you to him.”
Patrick: “That’ll be great!”
This feeling. I don’t know. I like James. There, I said it. I’m pretty sure my best friend doesn’t like him. But why am I feeling this way? What if she does like him? What will I do?
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:45 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:29 PM #58♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
By: icy / robicians
Part 1
(after class ng highschool)
Tricia was walking fast towards the highschool gym for her volleyball practice when she accidentally bumped someone. She didn't have a chance to look at the person's face because she was running late. She just said a quick sorry and continued walking towards the gym. Because she was in a hurry, she didn't noticed that her watch fell off from her wrist.
Robi was just waiting for his friends when Tricia bumped into him. He didn't see her cause when he turned around, Tricia was far already but he heard her quick apology. He thought 'wow, she must be really in a hurry to walk that fast while carrying a large duffel bag.' When he glanced on the ground, he noticed a watch. He picked it up and carefully examined it and noticed that it was a girly kind of watch. He figured that it must have been from her. Just when he was about to walk to where Tricia went, his friends arrived and told him that they should be in a hurry because their highschool moderator was about to leave anytime. He and his highschool class prepared a party for their former teacher and they were there to pick her up. He looked at the watch he was holding and thought that he could returned it the next time. *
After volleyball practice, when Tricia was about to go home, she noticed that her watch was missing. She tried looking for it inside her bag but found nothing. She also asked her teammates, if they saw her watch, but they said they didn't notice her wearing any. She traced back her steps but still she couldn't find it. Frustrated that she couldn't find her watch,which was a gift from her grandmom, Tricia sat on one of the benches. She began recounting the events that happened in the afternoon on her mind when she noticed that somebody is staring at her. 'Oh, no, not him. This is not good. This is not my day. I have to leave now. I don't wanna talk to him.', she said to herself. She hurriedly picked up her things and walked towards the school gate where their driver is waiting for her.
Unfortunately, the guy that she didn't want to talk just appeared right in front of her and blocked her path. She didn't noticed that while she was picking up her things, Jaime was walking towards the gate already.*
Jaime: Hi!*
Tricia: Hi!
Jaime: Hey! Are you avoiding me?*
Tricia: (in an irritated voice) Oh,Can you please dont block my way coz my driver is waiting for me already. *
Jaime: Don't you know me?, (he asked arrogantly)*
Tricia: Yes, I know you! You're Jaime. So, could you please move now?*
Jaime: So, what's your name?*
Tricia: Why?
Jaime: I just want to know.*
Tricia: I need to go, so, can you move now?*
Jaime got distracted when his barkada arrived so, Tricia took a chance and pushed Jaime aside so she could pass through.*
------
Tricia walking towards their car, "That guy is a pain. Kainis."*
------
Jaime: You guys arrived on a wrong time. I was trying to ask her name and you distracted me.*
Ivan: Why? are you interested at her?
Jaime: Well, just a bit. She kinda seem snobbish to me not like the others. Plus, she's pretty.*
Bret: Oh, man. Don't tell me you're gonna do one of your moves to her?
Jaime: (smiling cockily) Well, let's see just what happens.
Part 2
1week after
Robi was preparing his things for school when he noticed Tricia's watch that he left at his desk a week ago. He pickcd it up and carefully examined it. He noticed that there's an engraving 'T.S.' to it.*
Robi: Her name must be starting on T, she must be really sad she lost it. I don't even know what she looks like. How am I going to find this person? I really dont have time to look for her. I think I know what I'll do.
-------
Lunch Time @ HS Cafeteria
Tricia was eating lunch with her classmates when she saw a group of senior students arrived. Tricia tried to cover half of her face with her hair and pretend that she didn't see them.
Tricia: (on her mind) I hope they won't see me.
Kriz: (whispering) Tricia, they're here. He might see you and start bugging you again.*
Tricia: I know. What does he want from me anyway? He already knows my name.*
Kriz: He must be really interested at you.*
Tricia: He's not my type. (makes a face) Even if he's cute.*
Kriz: Okay, don't turn around. They're sitting right behind us.
Tricia: What? Does he know I'm sitting here?
Kriz: I think so coz he keeps on looking at our table.
Tricia: I have to go. I'll see you later in class, ok?
Kriz: Where are you going?
Tricia: Out of here. Bye. *
-----
Tricia decided to go to the guidance counselor's office to kill time. The place is quite large and has couches for students who just want to hang around. Just when she was about to go inside, Robi walked out from the door. They didn't notice each other. It was just two people passing by. Tricia greeted Mr.Bro,guidance counselor, and noticed that he was holding something.
Tricia: (with her eyes going big and a shocked voice) Mr. Bro, where did you find that? That's my watch. I've been looking for it since last week and all this time it's just here.*
Mr.Bro: Hi, Tricia. I just got it a few minutes ago. Robi just gave it to me today.*
Tricia: Robi? What year is he and section? I really need to thank him.
Mr.Bro: Oh, he's in college already. He just passed by today to give this watch to me. He said a girl dropped it last week. He just left a few minutes ago. *
Tricia: Maybe, I could still catch him. I have to go now. Bye, Mr.Bro.*
Mr.Bro: Don't be late for class. You only have 10 more minutes.
-------
Tricia was walking towards the college area when Ivan bumped into her accidentally.*
Ivan: Sorry, miss. I didn't mean to.
Tricia: Oh, that's fine. Don't worry about it.
Ivan: Hey, you're the girl that my barkadas talk about.
Tricia: Uhmm... I don't think so. Im just new here. Well, I really need to go.
Ivan: Okay. Bye. See you around.
--------
Tricia was at the school's parking lot when she checked the time. She has only 5 minutes left and decided that there's no way she could catch him and be on time for class. Little did she know, that the car she was standing right next to, was Robi's car and Robi was just inside and getting ready to leave...
Part 3
The next day, after Tricia's volleyball practice
Tricia got a call from her driver that he would be late cause he got a flat tire so she just went to the library to kill time. She was browsing through the bookshelves, when she saw Jaime looking at her on the other side. She pretended that she didn't notice him and just continued browsing on. Jaime, on the other hand, took his chance and approached Tricia.
Jaime: Hi
Tricia: Hey
Jaime: Are you here to borrow something?
Tricia: No. Im just looking around. (walks to the other side)
Jaime: Do you have a boyfriend?*
Tricia: Why?
Jaime: i just want to know.
Tricia: why?
Jaime: i just want to.
Tricia: why?
Jaime: Why cant you answer my question?
Tricia: (smiled at him mockingly)
Jaime: You're difficult to talk to. Why are you like that?
Tricia: what do you mean? (raises her left eyebrow, then she went out of the library)
Jaime is still following Tricia wherever she goes.
Tricia: can you stop following me?
Jaime: no, i wont. Unless you answer my question.
Tricia: if i do, will you stop following me? This is kinda awkward, you know, they're staring at us.*
Jaime: So, what? Let them stare. (Tricia glared at him) Ok. I will stop following you, just answer my question. **
Tricia: what question?
Jaime: do you have a boyfriend?
Tricia: no, i dont have one. So, can you go now?
Jaime: ok. Thanks for answering. (Then, Jaime left with a smile on his face)
----------
The next morning, 15 minutes before classes start, Tricia arrived at school. The first person she saw was Jaime who was waiting for her.
Jaime: Hi, Tricia.
Tricia: Hi
Jaime started walking beside Tricia
Tricia: What are you doing?*
Jaime: Walking you to your classroom.
Tricia: You dont have to do that. I know my way there.*
Jaime: I want to. You cant stop me. (smiled at her)
Tricia: (on her mind) Arghhh.... This is so awkward. People are staring at us.*
They reached Tricia's classroom and Jaime bid her goodbye.
-----
Kriz: Was that Jaime I saw you with?
Tricia: Uhmmm....yeah
Kriz: So, are you two friends now?
Tricia: No. *
Kriz: So, why was he with you?
Tricia: Well, I saw him downstairs and he told me that he wanted to walk with me until here.
Kriz: Oh, really. Maybe he likes you.
Tricia: Owver! He doesn't even know me, how can he like me already?
Kriz: Well, you're pretty. *
Tricia: Ughhh..... Not my type of guy, he's somewhat mayabang. Kala mo kung sino.
Kriz: Well, yeah, he is. You're so lucky, you got his attention. *
Tricia: Ughh... I dont want to.*
Kriz: I think that's too late already.
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 10:47 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:31 PM #59♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
"Father God, please send your Holy Angels to stand guard over us here in our castle today and everyday of our lives. We pray that the angels will minister to us and remind us of Your healing power. Lord please keep us safe from the evil one and strengthen us against all temptations that may come our way.
Lord God, please surround us with favor as with a shield today... Lord, please strengthen Your wall of protection around us.. keeping us safe from temptation of the flesh.. tricks of the adversary.. and all harm. Lord, please fill our thoughts with Your thoughts and let our words be Your words. You are our strength, our shield and our defense, O Lord. Thank You, Lord, in Jesus name we pray, Amen."Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 11:06 AM.
-
Feb 6, 2012 06:35 PM #60♥ TRICIAfied ♥
- Join Date
- Apr 2010
WELCOME TRICIA! WELCOME TRICIAFIERS! WELCOME FRIENDS/GUESTS!
T'fiers♥TRICIA SANTOS★MESMERIZED? Be SHIMMIANIZED.. Be TRICIAFIED~Tfiers★C101♥
Last edited by TRICIAfiers; Feb 7, 2012 at 11:08 AM.
Reply With Quote
FOLLOW 
Quick Navigation
Showbiz - Female Celebrities
Top
- Site Areas
- Settings
- Private Messages
- Subscriptions
- Who's Online
- Search Forums
- Forums Home
- Forums
- Sports and Recreation
- Entertainment & Showbiz
- Atin Ito: Our Culture
- Pinoy Lifestyle
- Humanities
- Business and Careers
- News and Public Affairs
- The Digital World
- Education
- Health and Nutrition
- Chit Chat
- PEx Activities
- Administrator’s Forum
«
Previous Thread
|
Next Thread
»
Posting Permissions
- You may not post new threads
- You may not post replies
- You may not post attachments
- You may not edit your posts
Suggested Topics
Sub title
Whats Happening
Sub title
The Flick List (Themed)
Guess the theme! Have you seen Twilight, Sister Act and these other movies? Share your thoughts and reviews in here! view more
The Wander List
Have you smashed plates in Tarlac been to the beaches of Bali? Tick your travel exploits off in our Wander List! view more
Caught Up Default
Sub title
Trailer: The Great Gatsby
Baz Luhrmann directs an ambitious, visually stunning tale of love, dreams, and tragedy in The Great Gatsby. view more
Review: Star Trek
Visually breath-taking and action-packed, Star Trek: Into Darkness will please casual and hardcore fans alike. view more
Review: Evil Dead
With an absurd amount of violence mixed with tons of terror and scares, Evil Dead is a must-see for horror movie fans. view more
Review: One Piece
Is One Piece Film Z an epic nautical adventure worth experiencing? Find out in this review! view more
Review: Trance
Director Danny Boyle delivers tons of twists and turns in this well-written mind-bending action thriller view more
All times are GMT +8. The time now is 09:46 PM.
SPORTS & RECREATION
SPORTS
RECREATION
CLUBS
PHOTO GALLERIES
ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWBIZ
MUSIC AND RADIO
INTERNATIONAL MOVIES AND TV
SHOWBIZ
LIFESTYLE & LEISURE
TRAVEL
LIFESTYLE
CLUBS
NEWS, BIZ & TECH
BUSINESS AND CAREERS
PERSONALS & CHIT CHAT
CAMPUS CHAT
- General Campus Chat
- Ateneo de Manila University
- Colegio de San Juan de
- College of Saint Benilde
- De La Salle University
- Far Eastern University
- Mapua Institute of Technology
- San Beda College
- University of Santo Tomas
- University of the Philippines
- High Schools
OTHERS
RELATIONSHIPS & CULTURE
LOVE, COURTSHIP & MARRIAGE
HUMANITIES & EDUCATION
EDUCATION
Home | Forums | About Us | Help | Contact Us | User Agreement
Havoc Digital, Inc. PEx, Inc. All rights reserved.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.1.12
Copyright © 2013 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
back to top
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors making the same and do not state or reflect the views of PEx, Inc.
