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It was silent in the Park mansion save for the constant pitter-patter of rain against the window. It was just 5 AM in the morning, tulog na tulog pa ang mga tao sa bahay. Ang tanging gising lang ay ang mga kasambahay nila na nagpe-prepare na ng pagkain nila. Dapat.

Bumukas ang pinto ng master’s bedroom at may mahihinang footsteps ang maririnig. Dahan-dahang isinara ni Mimi ang pinto ng kwarto ng mga Daddy niya at naglakad papunta sa malaking kama sa gitna ng silid. She giggled playfully nang makita ang itsura ng Daddy niya. Her dad, Chanyeol Park, was sleeping with his mouth wide open at nakabukas pa ng slight ang mga mata nito. He looks so funny in Mimi’s eyes. 

Agad namang nag-soften ang mga mata ni Mimi nang makita ang lalaki sa tabi ng Daddy niya, her Papa. Bukod sa Daddy niya, her Papa is the only person that Mimi trusts with all her life. Hindi man siya galing dito ay mahal na mahal niya ito. Mahal na mahal din naman siya nito. Kahit kailan ay hindi niya naramdaman na naiiba siya. Kahit kailan ay hindi ipinaramdam sa kanya ng Papa niya na hindi siya belong, na hindi siya nito tunay na anak. With Papa Baek , everything’s just…. home. Mimi never felt lost when he’s beside her. Sila ng Daddy niya. Kaya naman super thankful siya na dumating sa buhay nila ang Papa niya. Nagtagal man pero dumating pa rin ito. Tama nga na hinintay nila ang pagdating nito kasi sobrang worth it. Sobra-sobrang blessings ang natanggap nila sa katauhan ng Papa Baekhyun niya.

Mimi slowly climbed in the spacious bed and plopped herself in the middle of her Daddy and her Papa. Mahihimbing pa ang tulog ng mga ito. Mimi smiled when her Papa stirred, pero hindi naman ito nagising. Tinitigan niya lang si Baekhyun habang natutulog ito at yumakap sa tiyan nito, careful not to squish her baby brother in Baekhyun’s tummy. Mimi kissed Baekhyun’s cheek and then bent to kiss his tummy. 

With a small voice, she whispered, “Papa, thanks for coming to our life. I can’t wait to meet my baby brother. I will protect, care, and love him like how you did for me. I promise.” 

Mimi yawned after that, masyado pa talagang maaga para magising siya. No wonder, inaantok pa rin siya. Sumiksik siya sa Papa Baekhyun niya and as if his body knows even if he was asleep, Baekhyun hugged Mimi in his sleep. Mimi buried her face in Baekhyun’s neck, inhaling his homely scent as he was gently lulled to sleep because of his Papa’s slow breathing and the soft sound of rain. With a smile, Mimi drifted off to sleep, safe and warm in Baekhyun’s arms.

And that was the sight that greeted Chanyeol when he roused from his slumber. Kapag malamig naman kasi talaga ang weather ay naiihi ang mga tao at naramdaman ‘yon ni Chanyeol sa tulog niya kaya naman kahit inaantok pa ay pinipilit niya ang sarili na imulat ang mga mata niya. Napangiti na lamang siya nang makagisnan ang panganay niya at ang asawa niya na magkayakap. Hindi niya naramdaman nang lumipat si Mimi sa tabi nila pero hindi na siya nagulat. Madalas naman ito na gawain ng anak nila, mahal na mahal talaga nito si Baekhyun. His husband loves Mimi the same. Chanyeol was glad.

As if biglang nakalimutan niya ang tawag ng pantog niya, Chanyeol stayed in their bed. He watched as his family slept peacefully. Nakangiti siya habang pinagmamasdan ang mga ito.

Who would have thought na matutupad pa pala ang pangarap niya na magkaroon ng buong pamilya? When he had Mimi when he was barely 18 years old with a woman whom he barely knew, he was prepared to grow old alone. After all, sino ba ang tatanggap pa sa isang lalaking may baggage na kasama when there are tons of single men out there na walang past katulad niya. Don’t get him wrong, he may have cursed his drunkard ass a lot of times before pero kahit kailan ay hindi niya pinagsisihan na mayroon siyang Mimi. Mimi became his whole world. Siya ang naging dahilan para ayusin ni Chanyeol ang buhay. She was Chanyeol’s reason to try harder.

Chanyeol gave up his dreams of having a complete family long ago.

Then came Baekhyun Byun.

Like Mimi, Baekhyun came to his life as a surprise. Hindi niya plinano. Hindi niya inexpect, pero katulad ni Mimi, Baekhyun was all Chanyeol ever needed. Hindi niya alam pero si Baekhyun pala ang kailangan niya. Na kahit pala mayroong Mimi, may butas pa rin sa puso niya na si Baekhyun lang ang makaka-fulfill.

Napapangiti na lamang si Chanyeol habang pinapanood ang mag-ama niya. It was a long and tedious process. May isang taon na rin ang nakakalipas ng official na ma-adopt ni Baekhyun si Mimi, meaning ito na ang legal parent niya kasama si Chanyeol. Marami silang pinagdaanan pero eto sila at masaya na bilang isang buong pamilya. Not to mention, may parating pang bagong miyembro ang pamilya nila ilang buwan na lang ang hihintayin.

Inabot ni Chanyeol ang tiyan ni Baekhyun at hinimas ito nang dahan-dahan. Itinukod niya ang siko niya sa bed so his lower half was lying while his upper body was elevated. Dumukwang siya para bigyan ng halik ang forehead ni Mimi at ni Baekhyun bago muling umayos ng pwesto.

With a gentle smile, Chanyeol whispered, “I’m so lucky to have you both,”.

Chanyeol sighed. Paano nga ba sila napunta sa sitwasyon na ito?

Let’s start from the beginning.

— Semestral Break of 2011, Manila —

“I-It’s yours.” Nanginginig na bulong ng babae na nakaupo sa harapan ni Chanyeol sa isang coffee shop along Taft, malapit sa school na pinapasukan niya. Kung hindi lang tahimik sa paligid ay hindi maririnig ni Chanyeol ang sinasabi ng babae dahil sa hina ng boses nito.

Chanyeol laughed as he laid back on the sofa. He sipped on his Iced Americano at cold na tiningnan ang babae sa harap niya. What was her name again? Minyoung, was it?

Halata naman ang pagtataka sa mga mata ni Minyoung, mukha ngang paiyak na ito eh. Alam ni Chanyeol na he’s acting like a total asshole right now pero masisisi niyo ba siya? Buwan-buwan ata na may nagsasabi sa kanya na may nabuntis siya. Napakadami na niyang nagagastos sa paternity test dahil kineclaim ng mga ito na siya ang ama ng dinadala nila. Chanyeol’s not gonna lie, hindi naman siya santo. Ni hindi nga siya mabait na tao. He has his fair share of fun ngayong college. Lots of it. Pero sinisigurado naman niya na responsible pa rin siya. Kahit gaano siya kalasing ay hindi niya nakakalimutan na magsuot ng condom.

Nilunok muna ni Chanyeol ang inumin niya bago tiningnan nang diretso ang babae sa harap niya. “Did you know how many girls and boys come up to me every month only to say that I got them pregnant?”

Umiling si Minyoung. Chanyeol sighed. “Most of them, I don’t even know nor have I encountered in my life. Do you get what I’m saying?”

Minyoung nodded and Chanyeol visibly softened. Hindi naman talaga masama ang ugali niya. Napapagod na lang talaga siya sa mga ganitong pangyayari. Paulit-ulit na lang kasi. “Look, I don’t mean to be rude pero you look like a well-educated person. Don’t do this to yourself. I do remember you, but I’m sure I’m not the father of your kid. Kung buntis ka nga. I use a condom every time.”

This time, may tapang sa mga mata ni Minyoung nang sumagot siya sa tanong ni Chanyeol. “Surely, you know that condoms are not 100% effective, right? And how can you not be the father? You’re my first. I went to the doctor yesterday and it’s the tenth week now. I asked her if we could do a paternity test at this point and she said yes. If you’re up for it, we can do a paternity test. I’m not scared because I’m very sure that you’re the father of this kid. Ako na ang magbabayad.”

Chanyeol was left wide eyed and mouth wide open. Bigla siyang binalot ng kaba. Most of the time, kapag tinatakot na niya ang mga ito ng paternity test ay agad na umaatras ang mga ito at sinasabi na lang ang totoo na hindi talaga si Chanyeol ang ama ng dinadala nila pero Minyoung is not the same. She’s not backing down.

There’s no fear in her eyes, just conviction.

And Chanyeol visibly shakes, shit is it true na nakabuntis siya?

Ito ang matagal nang sinasabi ng kaibigan niyang si Jongin eh. Contrary kasi sa bad boy na itsura nito, napaka-demure nitong tao and he doesn’t agree with Chanyeol’s ways. To be honest, lagi nga siyang napapagalitan nito at sinasabihan na kakarmahin din siya sa future sa dami ng mga babae at lalaking pinaiyak niya.

At mukhang ito na nga ‘yon.

Shit, papalayasin siya ng Lolo niya.

“Seryoso ba?” Horrified na tanong ni Chanyeol. Kinakabahan na talaga siya. This is not good.

“Yes. We can even do it right now, if you’re free.”

Tumango na lang si Chanyeol bilang sagot dahil sa totoo lang ay hindi niya alam ang sasabihin niya. Iginiya niya ang babae papasok sa sasakyan niya at nagdrive na papunta sa ospital para maisagawa na nila ang paternity test. Hindi na niya patatagalin pa kasi gusto na din niyang malaman. Kailangan niyang magplano. Kung positive niya ang lumabas na result at tunay nga na magkakaanak na siya ay kailangan niyang iplano ang mga susunod niyang hakbang. Kung totoo nga ay hindi naman siya tatakbo sa responsibilidad niga. Gago siya pero hindi siya pinalaki ng Lolo niya na tinatakbuhan ang mga responsibilidad.

He knows what not to do. Hindi siya kagaya ng mga magulang niya.

Nang makarating sa ospital ay balisa pa rin si Chanyeol, buti nga at naiintindihan niya pa ang sinasabi ng mga nurse sa kanya. Kailangan lang ng mga ito ng blood sample sa kanya at kay Minyoung to analyze the cell free fetal DNA found in the mother's blood sample. It was an easy process pero they had to wait for the result for one week. Chanyeol deemed it enough para makapag-isip ng plans niya if it turned out na sa kanya nga ang bata.

Fuzzy ang brain ni Chanyeol nang makauwi siya. Ni hindi niya nga alam kung paano siya nakauwi ng safe at hindi nabangga kung saan when his mind is scattered. Pagkauwi niya ay wala pa ang Lolo niya sa bahay, malamang ay nasa opisina pa ito. Ala una pa lang naman kasi ng hapon and Chanyeol supposed that it’s great timing kasi makakapag-isip siya nang hindi ginagambala ng Lolo niya. Alam kasi nito na kakasimula pa lamang ng Semestral Break niya at kapag ganoon ay gabi na siya o madaling araw umuuwi galing sa kung saan.

Agad na humiga si Chanyeol sa kama niya nang makapasok siya sa kwarto niya. Hindi na siya nagpalit ng pambahay at basta na lang humilata sa kama niya, nakalawit pa ang dalawang paa niya sa sahig. Tinakpan niya ang mata niya gamit ang braso niya at hindi niya namalayan na may mga luha na palang tumutulo sa mga mata niya.

Gago man siya pero ayaw niyang madisappoint ang Lolo niya sa kanya, lalo pa at alam niya na ipagpipilitan nito kung sakali na pakasalan niya si Minyoung. Iwas scandal, mas ideal ang paglaki ng bata kung kumpleto ang magulang.

See, Chanyeol knows his Lolo is already disappointed in him. He’s graduating in two years and he still hasn’t matured. Siya lang naman ang nag-iisang tagapagmana ng kompanya ng Lolo niya kaya alam niya na hindi ito nasisiyahan na sinasayang niya ang buhay niya sa alak, sex, at sigarilyo.

Pero hinahayaan siya ng Lolo niya. Alam kasi nito ang pinagdaanan niya. Isa pa, alam nito na kahit gaano pa ang pagmamahal na ibigay at ipakita niya kay Chanyeol, hindi ‘yon magiging sapat. Kulang siya. Iniwan siya eh.

Lolo Park is all Chanyeol has.

17 years old lamang ang Mama ni Chanyeol nang mabuntis siya ng Papa niya who’s also at the same age. Come to think of it, parang history repeats itself ah.

Dahil kilalang pamilya at may pagka conservative ang Lolo at Lola niya, pinilit ng mga ito na maikasal ang Nanay at Tatay ni Chanyeol. It did not end well. Simula noong natuto si Chanyeol magsalita at intindihin ang mga usapan sa paligid niya, ang naririnig niya na lang ay puro away ng mga magulang niya. Hindi naman kasi mahal ng mga ito ang isa’t isa at nagpakasal lang sila dahil may Chanyeol. Kinagisnan na ni Chanyeol ang away ng mga magulang niya. Bata pa lamang siya ay tumatak na sa isip niya na hindi dapat siya nabuo, na isa siyang pagkakamali, na sinira niya ang buhay ng mga magulang niya — kasi ‘yon ang madalas nilang sinasabi sa batang Chanyeol.

Imbes na pagmamahal ang kalakihan ni Chanyeol, lumaki siya na puno ng galit. He had never felt love when he was with his parents. Kaya nga noong maghiwalay ang mga ito at magkapamilya nang kanya-kanya at naiwan siya sa gitna dahil walang gustong kumuha sa kanya, sobrang tuwa niya kasi kinupkop siya ng Lolo at Lola niya. His grandparents showed him what love is.

Hindi naman maikakaila na despite everything, may pagmamahal pa rin na natitira sa puso ni Chanyeol para sa mga magulang niya pero noong mamatay ang Lola niya ay doon napagtanto ni Chanyeol na hindi na lang siya magmamahal pa kasi lahat ng minamahal niya ay iniiwan lang din siya.

Kaya naman mahirap para sa kanya ang sitwasyon niya ngayon kasi kung mangyari nga na anak niya ang dinadala ni Minyoung, natatakot siya na mapagaya sa kanya ang bata. No, he doesn’t want that. Hindi niya mahal si Minyoung pero mamahalin niya ang anak niya. Papalakihin nila ang anak nila na puno ng pagmamahal kahit hindi sila magkasama.

He’ll do his best so his kid won’t grow up to fear love.

— August 22, 2015 —

Dahan-dahang pumasok si Minyoung sa kwarto ni Micha o Mimi , ang anak nila ni Chanyeol. Her name means beauty.   Bukod sa maganda talaga ang anak nila, she was also the reason why Chanyeol saw the beauty in living. Simula noong dumating si Mimi sa buhay niya, hindi na sa alak at sex umiikot ang buhay ni Chanyeol. Nakakita siya ng rason para ayusin ang buhay niya. Nakakita siya ng rason para mabuhay.

The moment Micha opened her eyes and stared at Chanyeol with her almond-shaped eyes that looked exactly like his, Chanyeol knew he’s willing to give up everything for her. His own happiness included.

It’s been three years since Mimi was born, but she still makes Chanyeol fall for her charms every day. Mahirap man ang sitwasyon nila dahil hindi sila sa iisang bahay nakatira, Chanyeol makes sure na nandoon siya sa bawat milestone ng anak niya. Four years ago, when he found out that he really got someone pregnant, akala niya ay katapusan na ng buhay niya. Turns out, it’s just the beginning.

His Lolo respected his decision na hindi magpakasal dahil sabi na rin nito na the first time he did that, marami ang nasaktan, lalo na ang apo niya. Kaya naman ngayon ay pinapalaki ni Chanyeol at ni Minyoung ang anak nila kahit na hindi sila. They’re co-parenting and it’s going great. Hindi sila nagkukulang kay Mimi at hindi nila pinaparamdam dito na hindi normal ang pamilya nila.

Today is Mimi’s third birthday. Tatlong taon na nang muling umikot ang buhay ni Chanyeol. It’s been three years since Chanyeol found life.

Sinara ni Minyoung ang pinto ng kwarto ni Mimi, careful not to make any sound at lumapit sa bed kung saan nakahiga si Chanyeol at nakaunan naman sa braso nito si Mimi. Kanina kasi ay may munting birthday party si Mimi. Ang mga imbitado ay ang mga malalapit nilang kaibigan at mga kamag-anak pati na ang mga kaibigan ni Mimi na nakilala nito sa playground malapit sa unit ni Minyoung. Naglinis si Minyoung ng mga kalat at pinatulog naman ni Chanyeol si Mimi na halata ang pagod dahil bagsak agad ito matapos itong paliguan ni Chanyeol.

“Shhh, she’s sleeping.” Bulong ni Chanyeol at nakangiting pinapanood ang anak. Nakatingin naman sa kanya si Minyoung at tahimik siyang pinapanood.

“She’s so beautiful, ano? I’m really thankful I had her as a daughter.” Tumingin si Chanyeol kay Minyoung at ngumiti. “Thank you… for giving birth to Mimi. I wish I could watch her like this all day.”

“You can.” Mahinang sagot ni Minyoung at napatingin naman sa kanya si Chanyeol. “You can, Chanyeol.” Pagpapatuloy pa nito.

“No, I can’t Minyoung.” Chanyeol slid his arms carefully off of Mimi’s head so she wouldn't wake up from the movements. The little girl stirred in her sleep and Chanyeol lulled her by patting her bum and when he’s certain that Mimi’s off to dreamland again, he continued what he wanted to say to Minyoung. Chanyeol sighed. “It will be harder for us. It will be harder for you. ”

“Why? Why can’t we try, Chanyeol? I love you. I told you countless times. Hindi pa rin ba pwede?” 

“But I don’t, Minyoung. Hindi kita mahal. I do love you as a friend and I’m thankful that you’re such a great mother to Mimi, but that’s that. That’s all I can offer. And I don’t want to hurt Mimi someday when we both realize that forcing ourselves into a relationship is a bad idea.”

Minyoung smiled, but there was evident pain in her eyes.

“There’s no changing your heart, ano? Hindi mo talaga ako kayang mahalin.”

“I’m sorry, Minyoung.”

“Don’t be. You’re a great father to Mimi, that’s all that matters. Sleep here tonight, gabi na baka maaksidente ka pa sa daan. I know you’re tired. Sa kabilang kwarto na lang ako. Stay with Mimi tonight.” 

With a gentle smile, Minyoung went out of the room and closed the door behind her leaving Chanyeol with his own thoughts. 

Tama naman ang desisyon niya, ‘diba? He just hopes he won’t regret this decision someday.

— December 08, 2017 —

He did, in fact, regret it.

Just when Chanyeol realized that he’s ready to try and that Minyoung’s more than just a friend to him, he’s too late already. Minyoung’s about to tie the knot with someone else. In a few minutes, she’ll be off to make the family that Chanyeol wants. Paano na si Mimi? Paano na siya? Lahat na lang ba ng mamahalin niya, iiwan siya?

But he’s not a selfish person. Ilang taon siyang hinintay ni Minyoung at siya itong nahuli, hindi naman niya ipipilit ang sarili niya dito at hindi niya sisirain ang kasiyahan ni Minyoung na ilang taon nitong hinanap sa maling tao. She’s with the right person now. Chanyeol can live with that. Besides, kasalanan niya naman.

Now, Minyoung’s minutes away from walking down the aisle to get married to the man she loves.

“Aw, stop it.” 

“I’m sorry.” Minyoung smiled sheepishly but she still didn’t loosen her grip on Chanyeol’s arms. Nasa likod sila ng malaking Narra door ng simbahan at hinihintay na lang na buksan ito sa signal ng wedding coordinator para makapasok na sila.

Yes, Chanyeol’s the one walking her down the aisle.

Minyoung’s father died when she was young and she has no brothers to walk her down the aisle. The only man she trusts is Chanyeol so it makes sense that he’s the one walking her down the aisle, right? Makes sense, but also stupid. Kung nandito lang si Jongin ngayon ay papaluin nito nang malakas ang ulo ni Chanyeol because despite of his countless advice, hindi nakinig si Chanyeol sa kanya.

Buti na lang at nasa business trip si Jongin. Saka na siya mapapagalitan paguwi nito.

Sino ba namang tanga ang papayag na ihatid ang mahal nila sa simbahan sa kasal nito sa iba ? Si Chanyeol lang.

“Don’t be nervous.” Lumingon si Chanyeol kay Minyoung at nginitian ito. The lady returned his smile and Chanyeol’s heart felt like it was squished painfully. This could be Chanyeol’s wedding. This could be his wedding venue. Pero siguro nga ay hindi sila para sa isa’t isa. She loved him too early and he loved her too late.

“I’m not. Just…giddy. I can’t wait to get married to him.” Ngiti nito at halata naman sa boses nito na nagsasabi siya ng totoo.

Chanyeol held her hand and squeezed it gently. “He’s a good man. I’m happy for you, Minyoung. You deserve this.”

“Thank you. You do too. Don’t close your doors to love, alright? Kapag may kumatok, papasukin mo. Malay mo, they’re exactly what you need.” 

Just when Chanyeol’s about to reply that he will never fall in love with someone again because all of the people he loves eventually leaves him, the heavy double doors of the church opened and the wedding march filled the silence.

It’s time.

Siguro nga ay destiny na ni Chanyeol ang maging alone. Siguro ay ito ang sinasabi sa kanya ni Jongin na karma niya.

But it’s alright. He will never be fully alone. He has Mimi. She is enough.

— November 20, 2018 —

“Daddy, please….Take me with you. I-I don’t want to live with Mommy anymore.” Naiiyak na sambit ni Mimi sabay yakap ng mahigpit sa bewang ni Chanyeol, refusing to walk towards the gate. Tapos na kasi ang weekly schedule ni Chanyeol kay Mimi at kailan na nitong bumalik sa Nanay niya pero eto nga at ayaw siyang bitiwan ng anak niya.

Chanyeol crouched so he could be on Mimi’s eye level. He sighed, “But, Mimi…Daddy can’t just do that. Magagalit ang Mommy mo.”

“No! No she won’t! Please, Daddy? Can you try? Please?” Chanyeol sighed when he saw tears in his daughter’s eyes. Hindi niya kayang tanggihan ang anak niya. So, like any doting parent. Kasama siya ni Mimi nang pumasok sa bahay ni Minyoung at ng asawa nito. They recently had a twin kaya hindi din masyadong naglalalabas ang mga ito, mga kasambahay lang nila ang nagbukas ng gate para kay Chanyeol at kay Mimi.

Madalas ay sinisisi ni Chanyeol ang sarili niya kung bakit hindi buo ang pamilya ni Mimi. Kung sana ay narealize niya lang noon ang feelings niya, edi sana ay buo ang pamilya nila. Pero noon pa ‘yon at nakamove on naman na si Chanyeol. Tanggap na niya na masaya na si Minyoung. He just couldn’t help but feel bad because Mimi’s growing up and she’ll grow up into a broken family.

Hand in hand, they walked to the nursery room kasi nandoon daw si Minyoung at ang asawa nito kasama ang kambal nila. Napangiti naman si Chanyeol nang makita ang picture perfect na itsura ng mag-anak. Tig-isa ang mag-asawa ng hawak na baby at hinehele ito. But Chanyeol was confused because of Mimi’s behavior. She doesn't look happy to see her new siblings and her Mom. Nakatago lang ito sa likod ni Chanyeol, refusing to look.

“Minyoung.” Pagtawag ni Chanyeol ng pansin ni Minyoung at agad naman itong lumingon sa kanya ng may ngiti sa mga labi.

“Chanyeol, you’re here. Where’s Mimi?” 

Lumingon si Chanyeol sa likod niya at hinila ng dahan-dahan ang anak niya para makita ito ng Mommy niya pero hindi ito pumapayag kaya napabuntong-hininga na lang si Chanyeol. “That’s the thing. Can she stay with me for a while? Ayaw lumayo sa akin eh. Naglalambing.”

Minyoung beamed. “Oh sure! That’s fine. May mga damit at uniforms naman na siya sa bahay mo, right?”

Napakunot ang noo ni Chanyeol pero agad din nitong ibinalik ang dating reaksyon ng mukha. “Yes. So, we’ll get going now. Congratulations again on the twins.”

“Thank you.”

Without Chanyeol’s knowledge, bumagsak lalo ang mga balikat ni Mimi when she heard what her mother said. She seemed so eager to get rid of Mimi. 

It hurts her little heart.

— August 22, 2019, Mimi’s 7th birthday —

Napabuntong hininga si Baekhyun nang makita ang paborito niyang estudyante na malungkot pa rin hanggang ngayon. He knows he’s not supposed to pick favorites, but Mimi’s different. Anak na ang turing sa kanya ni Baekhyun. Sa lahat ng mga bata na na-handle niya, si Mimi ang pinakamalapit sa puso niya. 

Birthday nito ngayong araw at kahit anong bati ng mga kaibigan nito ay nanatili pa rin na malungkot ang bata. Kaya naman noong lunch na at kumakain ito ng baon niya ay nilapitan ito ni Baekhyun dala ang munti niyang regalo para sa kaarawan nito. Isa iyong stuffed toy na Doraemon, madalas kasing mabanggit sa kanya ni Mimi na paborito niya ito.

“Hey, pretty. Happy birthday.” Nakangiting bati ni Baekhyun kay Mimi na sinuklian naman siya ng maliit na ngiti.

“Thank you po, Teacher B.” 

“Here, I have something for you.”

Inabot ni Baekhyun ang regalo niya kay Mimi at nag-thank you naman ito. Habang binubuksan ni Mimi ang regalo ni Baekhyun sa kanya ay may ilang piraso ng buhok ang pumatak sa mukha nito na inayos naman ni Baekhyun. There’s just something about Mimi that awakens Baekhyun’s maternal instincts.

“Wow! Thank you, Teacher B!” Niyakap ni Mimi si Baekhyun nang makita nito ang laman ng regalo niya. Natuwa naman si Baekhyun na kahit papano ay nabawasan ang lungkot sa mga mata nito.

“You’re welcome, sweetie. But can Teacher B ask you something? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, okay? It’s your choice. Teacher B’s just a little worried.” Mimi nodded at every word that Baekhyun said. Matalinong bata si Mimi kaya alam ni Baekhyun na naiintindihan nito ang pinaparating niya.

“Are you okay? Why do you seem sad? It’s your day.”

Mimi sighed before hugging her new Doraemon plushie tight. “My Mommy forgot my birthday. She just greeted me because Daddy called her.”

“Oh.” Baekhyun doesn’t know what to say. He could understand why that would upset her. It’s the most important day of Mimi’s life, how can her own Mother forget it? “Maybe she just has a lot on her plate? I’m sure it’s not intentional, sweetheart.”

Tumingin si Mimi kay Baekhyun. “But you remembered. She’s my mom, but she forgot. Last week, I heard her and Tito Jacob saying that their family is so happy — Mommy, Tito Jacob, and the twins. I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, Teacher B, I promise… I just woke up from my nap and then I heard. Then, Mommy agreed. Am I not part of their family? Where’s Mimi?” 

Baekhyun was speechless. First of all, it was really irresponsible of them to talk about those things with Mimi in the same place. It was irresponsible of them to even talk and think that way! What kind of mother makes her own daughter feel left out? Second, Mimi is a really good girl. Nag-sorry pa ito na narinig niya. Third, Baekhyun was enraged. Mimi was hurt! This may affect her growing up. Little things like these slowly build up into trauma kapag hindi naagapan.

“Did you tell Daddy?” Of course Baekhyun knows kung ano ang sitwasyon ni Mimi sa bahay. Makwento kasi itong bata. Isa pa, kung paborito ni Baekhyun si Mimi, paborito din ni Mimi si Baekhyun. They have a special bond.

“No. It will make him sad. I know he’s already sad that he can’t give me a complete family.” Baekhyun sighed. If only he can do something to make Mimi feel better, pero alam niya na ang mga magulang lang din nito ang makakaayos ng problema. 

When the bell rang, bumalik na si Baekhyun sa table niya but not before telling Mimi that none of it was her fault. Ayaw niya na malason ang utak ng bata na siya ang dahilan kung bakit ganoon ang pamilya niya. Her parents should know to keep their problems to themselves at hindi idamay ang bata.

Bago magsimula ang klase ay tinext ni Baekhyun si Mr. Park para sana kausapin ito tungkol kay Mimi. Ayaw niya makialam pero ayaw niya din na nakikitang nahihirapan at nasasaktan ang estudyante niya. He had never seen Mr. Park before. Ang sumusundo at naghahatid lang kasi lagi kay Mimi ay ang driver nito. Baekhyun knows that Mimi’s Dad is a busy man pero sana naman ay paunlakan niya ang imbitasyon niya dito. Gusto niya lang makatulong. Buti na lamang ay mabilis na nagreply sa kanya si Mr. Park at sinabi na he’ll make time mamaya para makausap siya.

With a sigh, he hoped for the best.

Dismissal came and Baekhyun was feeling antsy. Hindi niya alam pero kinakabahan siyang makita ang Daddy ni Mimi. It’s their first time to meet and Baekhyun was about to tell the man that he was aware of their problems and he was also about to ask the man to give Mimi more attention. Hindi ba masyado naman siyang namamakialam? But Mimi is his student at anak na rin ang turing sa kanya ni Baekhyun. Ayaw naman niya na nahihirapan si Mimi. For sure ay hindi nito sasabihin sa Daddy niya ang problema niya. Isa pa, baka maging problema ito in the long run kapag hindi naagapan ang mga thoughts ni Mimi.

Right now, she’s feeling unwanted and that’s not a good thing. No child should feel that way.

“Goodbye, class!”

“Goodbye, Teacher B~” May tono pa ang pagbati sa kanya ng mga bata at napatawa na lamang si Baekhyun sa kacute-an ng mga estudyante niya. Kahit papaano ay nabawasan ang kaba niya.

Isa-isa niyang inihatid ang mga estudyante niya sa mga sundo ng mga ito and he made sure that Mimi’s last. Nang si Mimi na lang ang natitira sa loob ay inaya niya ito palabas at nilapitan ang nag-iisang lalaki na nakatayo sa labas ng classroom. The man was still in his suit, a sign na dumiretso ito sa eskwelahan galing sa opisina niya.

Malayo pa sila ay kitang-kita na agad ni Baekhyun ang napakagwapo nitong side profile, nakatagilid kasi ito at may kausap sa cellphone kaya hindi pa sila nito napapansin.

“Daddy!” Excited na sigaw ni Mimi at tumakbo na papalapit sa Daddy niya. Lumingon naman ito sa direksyon nila, agad na ibinaba ang tawag, at lumuhod para masambot si Mimi na tumatakbo papalapit sa kanya. 

“Mimi!” 

Baekhyun was stunned to hear the gorgeous deep voice. Tumayo na si Mr. Park habang buhat si Mimi at nilapitan si Baekhyun na natuod sa pagkakatayo niya. Pinilit naman ni Baekhyun ang sarili niya na magfocus dahil nasa harapan na niya si Mr. Park and oh god sobrang gwapo niya. No wonder ang ganda ni Mimi!

“Hello, nice to finally meet you, Teacher B. Is Mimi a good girl sa school?” Nakangiting tanong nito at nahahawa naman si Baekhyun doon.

“N-Nice to meet you too, Mr. Park. Yes, Mimi’s a good girl. She listens and studies well.” He couldn’t help but stutter. Thank goodness he schooled his expression well. Why the hell can’t he focus? Napaka-unprofessional!

“So, bakit niyo po ako naipatawag ngayong araw? Is there a problem?” 

Mabilis na naging seryoso si Baekhyun. Most of all, ang mga estudyante niya ang pinakamahalaga. “Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something po sana. Is there someone who can watch Mimi in the meantime?”

“Her Yaya’s in the car. Ihatid ko lang muna si Mimi.”

“Okay. Pasok na lang po kayo sa classroom after. Bye, Mimi!” Baekhyun waved his hand and Mimi waved back. Nag-flying kiss pa nga ito sa kanya na nagpatawa sa kanilang dalawa ng Tatay ni Mimi. They do not know but they have the same parental fond look on their eyes as they looked at Mimi.

Pumasok na si Baekhyun sa classroom niya at doon hinintay si Mr. Park. Hindi din naman ito nagtagal dahil ilang minuto pa lamang ang nakalilipas ay pumasok na din ito sa classroom.

Agad na tumayo si Baekhyun at iginaya si Mr. Park paupo sa isa sa mga visitor chair na agad naman nitong tinanggap after saying thank you.

Umupo na din si Baekhyun sa chair niya, his desk was separating them.

“So, Mr. Park—”

“Please, call me Chanyeol. Mr. Park sounds so old. And is it alright to call you Teacher B too? ‘Yon aksi ang tawag ni Mimi sayo kapag nagkekwento siya.” Biro nito at napangiti naman si Baekhyun. It was enough to break the awkward tension in the air.

“Yes, you can call me Teacher B. It’s short for Baekhyun, Chanyeol…I’m sorry if we’re meeting up like this. I know this isn’t my place to talk about but Mimi’s getting affected by your situation at home. She was sad all day because her Mom forgot to greet her with a happy birthday.”

Chanyeol sighed. “Her Mom’s busy with her twins.”

“I get that, but Mimi deserves some attention too. Na-share niya din po sa akin na she overheard her Mom talking with her husband na masaya daw ang family nila, hindi nila nabanggit si Mimi. She thinks she’s unwanted.” Chanyeol stiffened with that. Halata ni Baekhyun sa body language nito na he’s confused and maybe even angry.

“Why would they say that? Mimi does not deserve to hear those words. She’s not unwanted.”

“Again, I know this isn’t my place at masyado na akong nakikialam pero hindi po ba mas mabuti na sa inyo na muna tumuloy si Mimi? I don’t think it’s healthy for her to hear those kinds of things while growing up. She’s a brilliant kid, alam kong naiintindihan na niya ang usapan ng mga adults around her. She’s hurt too.”

Chanyeol sighed before looking at Baekhyun. “Thank you for telling me, I’m sure hindi ‘to sasabihin sa akin ni Mimi. She hates it when I worry.” Chanyeol chuckled mirthlessly. “I’ve been thinking for the past month to get Mimi’s full custody. Pansin ko din kasi na malungkot siya tuwing uuwi siya sa galing sa Nanay niya. She told me mga Yaya niya lang doon ang nag-aasikaso sa kanya. I’m busy with work too kaya hindi ko siya nahahatid-sundo pero I make sure naman na I spend enough time with her. I help her with her assignments every night at pag nakauwi siya galing school, mostly ako na ang in charge sa kanya sa bahay. I don’t know if taking full custody is the best decision, I just want her to be happy.”

Baekhyun nodded at everything that Chanyeol said. Hindi man niya naiintindihan fully dahil wala pa naman siyang anak, alam niya ang pakiramdam ng lumaki sa broken family. His Mom is a single parent and just like Chanyeol, gusto lang din niya ay ang kasiyahan at comfort ng anak niya.

“I think you should go for it. Mimi seems a lot happier to be with you pero to be certain, you should talk to her. Matalino ang anak mo, Chanyeol. I’m sure she’ll understand.” Baekhyun did not know what came onto him pero bigla niyang hinawakan ang kamay ni Chanyeol na nakapatong sa table at binigyan ito ng mahinang pisil, as if comforting him. 

Nanlaki naman ang mga mata ni Chanyeol at namula ang tenga niya nang maramdaman ang malambot na kamay ni Baekhyun. As if he was burned, agad na binawi ni Baekhyun ang kamay niya nang marealize niya ang ginawa niya. Hindi naman maipaliwanag ni Chanyeol kung bakit nakaramdam siya ng dismaya nang mawala ang init na nakabalot sa kanang kamay niya. 

“I-I’m sorry! I don’t know what came over me.” Nahihiyang sambit ni Baekhyun, namumula pa ang mga pisngi nito. Chanyeol just chuckled.

“It’s okay.”

“Uhm, ‘yon. That’s all my concern po. You can go now. Ingat po kayo sa byahe. Talk to Mimi.”

Tumayo na si Chanyeol at inilahad ang kamay niya kay Baekhyun for a handshake na agad naman nitong tinanggap. “I will. Thank you, Teacher B. Balitaan kita. I’ll try to fetch and send Mimi to school myself, from now on.”

With one last smile, Chanyeol waved goodbye. Naiwan naman na tulala si Baekhyun sa loob ng classroom. Hindi niya mapigilan ang kabog ng puso niya. Shit, kinikilig ba siya? Baekhyun!!! Gising!!! 

At saka ano ba ang ibig sabihin ni Chanyeol na babalitaan niya si Baekhyun?!

— November 23, 2019 —

It has been three months since the first time Baekhyun met Chanyeol, Mimi’s father. And Baekhyun doesn’t know how they fell into this routine, but it’s not like he doesn’t want it.

Simula noong unang beses silang nagkita, ramdam naman ni Baekhyun ang connection pero bina-brush off ito ni Baekhyun, kulang lang siya sa kilig. Pero ‘yon nga, tinupad ni Chanyeol ang sinabi niya kay Baekhyun at simula noong araw na ‘yon ay siya na ang nagsusundo at naghahatid kay Mimi, giving Baekhyun enough time to get to know the man.

Kagay ni Mimi ay komportable din si Baekhyun kay Chanyeol. 

Noong unang beses siyang niyaya ng mag-ama na sumama sa weekly gala nilang dalawa ni Mimi, hiyang-hiya si Baekhyun. He felt like he was intruding. Bonding ito ng mag-ama after a long week of barely seeing each other at sasama siya eh hindi naman siya kapamilya. Mimi’s puppy eyes did the trick though. Hindi naman ito matanggihan ni Baekhyun lalo na nang pati si Chanyeol ay tiningnan din siya ng ganon. He felt like he was rejecting two puppies.

So, he went. At ang isang beses na ‘yon ay nasundan ng isa pa, at ng isa pa, at ng isa pa…..hanggang sa hindi alam ni Baekhyun ay lahat ng gala ng mag-ama ay kasama na siya.

Hindi alam ni Baekhyun kung mali ba ang pag-spend niya ng time with his student outside school pero it’s not like he’s being unfair to others. Paborito man niya si Mimi, he doesn’t treat her any differently. Lahat ng mga estudyante niya ay pare-pareho ang turing niya.

Dalawang buwan na din pala ang nakakaraan noong magsimula ang court battle ni Chanyeol against Mimi’s Mom for custody. Chanyeol listened to Baekhyun and talked to his daughter about it. Mimi loved the idea of staying with her Daddy, alam naman ‘yon ng lahat, the court too. The legal battle against Mimi’s Mom was tedious and downright depressing. Chanyeol doesn’t want to go through such lengths, but his daughter is in pain and he doesn’t like that. Minyoung was a good friend and Chanyeol was very thankful for her for giving birth to Mimi, but she doesn’t like her Mom anymore. Tuwing uuwi si Mimi galing sa bahay nina Minyoung, halata ni Chanyeol ang lungkot sa mga mata nito.

They said it might take months pero right now, mas pinapanigan ng korte si Chanyeol. Aside from being more capable than Minyoung financially, Mimi is already seven years old and by that age, pwede na silang pumili ng parent kung saan nila gustong mag-stay. As expected, Mimi chose Chanyeol. So, the court was leaning more in Chanyeol’s favor. Mahirap lang talaga kalaban kasi Minyoung is Mimi’s Mom. To be really honest, mas may karapatan siya kay Mimi more than Chanyeol. That’s what Chanyeol’s lawyer said pero the lad was doing his best naman. He has been Park Family’s family lawyer since Chanyeol learned what lawsuits is at wala pa itong kaso na hindi naipapanalo. Mr. Kim won Chanyeol’s custody for Lolo park against his own parents, Chanyeol knows he can do this too.

Baekhyun was present in all of the court hearings. Katabi ito ni Mimi dahil si Chanyeol ay nasa unahan kasama ng lawyer niya. He was rooting for Chanyeol and Mimi. Kahit sino naman ay makikita na mas masaya si Mimi kasama si Chanyeol.

Today, there is another hearing at nagpeprepare na si Baekhyun dahil dadaan siya ng mag-ama on the way to the court house. Nalaman nila ang address ni Baekhyun nang minsang makatulog ito sa byahe pauwi at kahit medyo invasive man, tiningnan ni Chanyeol ang ID ni Baekhyun para malaman ang address nito. Simula noon ay lagi na siyang hatid-sundo ng mag-ama kapag may pupuntahan sila.

Baekhyun knows he is playing with fire. Sabi pa nga ng kaibigan niyang si Sehun ay he’s treading on uncharted waters and most people who do that end up getting lost or eaten by a crocodile. Baekhyun snorted when he heard Sehun’s metaphor pero paguwi niya sa bahay ay hindi niya mapigilan na maisip na tama ito. Alam ni Baekhyun na attached na siya and he’s on his way of falling. Not yet there, but getting there. He was running with his heart on the line.

Baekhyun’s phone suddenly rang at hindi na niya ito chineck, alam naman niya na si Chanyeol na iyon at hinihintay na siya ng mga ito sa gate ng apartment complex na tinitirahan niya. Agad niyang inilagay ang mga gamit niya sa bag at chineck ang sarili niya one last time kung ayos ba ang itsura niya. When he deemed himself ready, naglakad na siya palabas ng room niya. He picked up his keys na nasa kitchen table bago tuluyang lumabas ng apartment niya.

Agad naman niyang nakita ang kotse ni Chanyeol na nakaparada sa gate. Agad niyang binuksan ang pinto ng passenger seat and was greeted by the sight of Mimi wearing a beautiful white chiffon dress. May ribbon pa ito sa buhok niya and it looked a bit messy, but a cute kind of messy. Siguro ay si Chanyeol ang nagpuyod dito.

Sa kabilang side naman ay nakaupo si Chanyeol na nakangiti na kay Baekhyun. Doon silang lahat nakaupo sa passenger seat kasi ang driver nila Chanyeol ang magdadrive ngayon. Ang Yaya naman ni Mimi ang nakaupo sa shotgun seat.

“Teacher B!” Masiglang bati ni Mimi kay Baekhyun matapos nitong makaupo sa upuan at maisara ang pinto ng kotse, unti-unti na ding gumagalaw ang sasakyan, a sign na umaandar na sila at nag-beblend in na sa traffic.

“Hi, Mimi! Did you miss me?” 

Mimi nodded at tumayo. Agad naman itong inalalayan ni Chanyeol at ni Baekhyun kaya naglapat ang mga kamay nila nang sabay silang humawak sa bewang ni Mimi. They both blushed and Mimi noticed kaya naman she giggled. 

“Hey kiddo, don’t do that. You scared me.” Gentle na reprimand ni Chanyeol at ngitian lang naman siya ni Mimi.

“Sorry, Daddy. I just want to sit in Teacher B’s lap.” And she did exactly that. Umupo ito sa lap ni Baekhyun at sumiksik dito. Natatawa na lamang si Chanyeol sa clinginess ng anak niya. Sana all.

Chanyeol watched them with a fond gaze as Mimi answered Baekhyun’s question a while ago. 

“Yes, I missed you Teacher B! Daddy missed you too! He kept bugging me kanina to dress fast because you’re waiting!” Asar ni Mimi sa Daddy niya na aagd nanlaki ang mata at namula ang tenga. Baekhyun giggled. One thing that Mimi learned to do for the past months ay ang asarin ang Daddy at ang Teacher niya.

“Really?” Tanong ni Baekhyun

“Yes!”

“Mimi, what are you saying? Bad mag-lie.” Nakangusong sambit ni Chanyeol at kahit ang Yaya ni Mimi at ang driver nila ay napapangiti na lamang sa naririnig. They were happy to see Chanyeol like this. They have been around since Chanyeol was a kid. Sa totoo nga lang, ang Yaya ngayon ni Mimi ay ang nag-alaga din kay Chanyeol noong bata pa siya. They saw how Chanyeol grew up sad and alone and to see him happy and unguarded like this makes them so proud. Deserve ito ni Chanyeol, more than anyone. 

“But I’m not lying, you can ask Nanay po, Teacher B. She was there.” Pandadamay pa ni Mimi sa Yaya niya na hindi na napigilan ang pagtawa.

“Oo nga po, Sir Baekhyun. Tingin nang tingin ‘yang si Chanyeol sa cellphone niya. Iniintay yata ang reply mo.”

“Nay!” Angal ni Chanyeol at napatawa na lamang ang matanda. Nanay ang tawag sa kanya ni Chanyeol at ni Mimi. In turn, Chanyeol lang din ang tawag niya dito imbes na Sir. Pamilya na din kasi ang turing niya sa mga ito at parang Nanay na din siya ni Chanyeol kasi siya ang nagpalaki dito.

Baekhyun is getting scared of how much he wants to see this every day.

Napuno ng tawanan ang kotse nang patuloy nilang asarin si Chanyeol na nakasimangot na ngayon. Pero sa loob-loob ni Chanyeol ay masaya siya dahil nakakalimutan niya kahit kaunting oras lang ang trial na mangyayari. Hindi man halata pero kinakabahan siya. 

Ilang minuto lang ay nakarating na din sila sa court house. Buti at hindi sila naabutan ng traffic kahit pa Sabado ngayon.

Chanyeol’s lawyer was already there when they arrived at sinalubong nito sina Chanyeol sa may pintuan ng courthouse. He informed Chanyeol na nandoon na daw sina Minyoung and the trial will start in 30 mins. Pumasok na sila sa trial room at dumiretso si Chanyeol at ang lawyer nito sa unahan para pag-usapan ang mga sasabihin nila mamaya.

Iginiya naman ni Baekhyun si Mimi at ang Yaya nito sa may upuan sa likod nina Chanyeol. They were two chairs down. Busy si Baekhyun na panoodin si Chanyeol na halata sa mukha ang stress kaya hindi nito napansin ang babae na palapit sa kanya.

“I enrolled my daughter in your school so you can teach her, I didn’t hire you to plant ideas in her and Chanyeol’s head. Anong tinuturo mo sa kanya? Na her Mom is a bad person?” Baekhyun was startled nang biglang nagsalita si Minyoung na nasa gilid niya. Agad naman na tumayo si Baekhyun at inilipat si Mimi ng pwesto at sinabi sa Yaya nito na ilabas muna si Mimi ng kwarto na agad naman nitong sinunod. Hindi pa naman kasi nagsisimula ang trial.

Baekhyun couldn’t say anything. He was tongue-tied. Alam naman niya na nakialam siya pero he did that in Mimi’s best interest. Thank goodness napansin agad ni Chanyeol ang maliit na commotion na nangyayari sa likod kaya agad nitong nilapitan ang dalawa. 

Chanyeol stood beside Baekhyun at hinawakan ang braso nito. Bumaba ang tingin ni Mimi sa kamay ni Chanyeol and she scoffed. “What? Are you two together now? I didn’t know that seducing is part of your job description.”

“Stop it, Minyoung. Don’t point fingers at anyone kasi ikaw ang may kasalanan. We wouldn’t be here if you were just a fair Mom. Ikaw ang nagkulang kay Mimi so don’t go around accusing anyone of your mistakes.”

Minyoung was about to refute when the judge suddenly entered so they were forced to go back to their places. 

The trial was a blur to Baekhyun. Minyoung’s words were like a stab to his chest. Kahit noong bumalik si Mimi at ang Yaya nito sa tabi niya ay nanatili siyang tahimik. Even after the trial and Chanyeol’s lawyer was saying how they could wrap this up in a month because the court really favors Chanyeol. It looked like they will get full custody. Naka-schedule ang final trial nila three weeks from now and that will decide who will get Mimi’s custody.

On the way to his apartment, tahimik pa rin si Baekhyun at nag-aalala na si Chanyeol.

Is he really wrecking Mimi’s family?

Nang makarating sa apartment building ni Baekhyun ay bumaba ito without saying anything. Halata naman ni Chanyeol na nalungkot si Mimi kaya sinundan niya ito. Kasama nito si Mimi na buhat-buhat niya.

“Baek.” Tawag ni Chanyeol and that did the trick of waking Baekhyun up from his daydream. Nakatayo na ito sa harap ng apartment door niya at isusuot na lang ang susi sa loob.

“Y-Yes?”

“It’s not your fault. Please, don’t let her get in your head. It’s my choice to make, Baekhyun. ‘Wag mong sisihin ang sarili mo.” Baekhyun looked at Mimi na buhat pa rin ni Chanyeol at napangiti na lang si Baekhyun nang tumango si Mimi, nag-aagree sa sinabi ng Daddy niya kahit hindi naman nito naiintindihan ang context.

Baekhyun nodded. “Alright.” Chanyeol smiled and he visibly relaxed. “Would you like to come inside?”

Halata ang pagkagulat ni Chanyeol sa offer ni Baekhyun pero agad din nitong nabawi ang gulat sa mukha niya at eager na tumango sa tanong ni Baekhyun. Napatawa na lang si Baekhyun at binuksan na ang pinto ng apartment niya para papasukin ang mag-ama. Binaba muna ni Chanyeol si Mimi sa floor at binalikan ang extra na gamit nito sa kotse. Pinauwi na din niya ang driver nila at ang Yaya ni Mimi. Tanghali pa lang din kasi kaya hindi na muna sila uuwi, sinabi na lang niya na balikan sila ng mga ito mamaya.

Nadatnan ni Chanyeol na nanonood si Mimi ng TV sa may maliit na sala ng apartment ni Baekhyun and the latter was nowhere to be found. Hindi naman na siya nag-isip ng matagal when the smaller male emerged from the room on the right, now wearing an oversized shirt and a dolphin short. Namula naman ang tenga ni Chanyeol nang makita ang milky legs ni Baekhyun which he covered by faking a cough.

“Upo na muna kayo dyan. Magluto ako ng lunch natin.”

“You know how to cook?” Chanyeol asked at gulat na gulat ang mukha nito. Baekhyun giggled. 

“I do. Hindi naman ako pwedeng mag-order palagi. Lagot ako sa nanay ko kapag nalaman niya.” 

“It’s the first time you talked about your family. Maybe, someday you can introduce us?” 

Baekhyun smiled. “Maybe.”

Dumiretso na ito sa kusina at nagluto ng pagkain nila para ngayong tanghalin habang ang mag-ama naman ay busy manood ng cartoons sa TV ni Baekhyun. Hindi naman siya kagalingan pero edible naman ang niluluto niya. He just hopes they will like it.

After almost an hour ay tapos na magluto si Baekhyun. Calderetang manok lang naman ang niluto niya kasi hindi pa rin siya nakakapag-grocery at ‘yon na lang ang kompleto ang mayroon siyang kompleto ang rekado. Isa pa, madali ito lutuin at tanghali na din, baka gutom na ang mag-ama. 

Tinawag na ni Baekhyun si Chanyeol at si Mimi at magkasunod naman ang mga ito na pumasok sa kusina. “Wow, it smells amazing in here, Teacher B!” 

“Really? Then I hope Mimi will like what Teacher B cooked! Come!” Binuhat ni Baekhyun si Mimi at iniupo ito sa chair malapit sa kanya. Nilagyan naman niya ng pagkain ang plato nito at si Chanyeol ay tahimik lang silang pinapanood. 

They look like a family, Chanyeol mused. 

Chanyeol’s musings was interrupted when Baekhyun slid a plate in front of him, puno na ito ng kanin at iniabot sa kanya ni Baekhyun ang bowl ng ulam. Umupo naman na si Chanyeol at inabot ang mga kubyertos. It’s nice to eat like this, together.

Napuno ng tawanan at kulitan ang maliit na dining area ni Baekhyun. Ang dating tahimik niyang apartment ay napuno ng tawa nila at masaya siya. Hindi niya alam kung gaano katagal siyang pwedeng magpanggap na isa silang pamilya, pero Baekhyun will take it. He knows, sooner or later, hindi na ‘to pwede lalo pa at nahuhulog na siya. Ayaw naman niyang pahirapan ang mga sarili nila. Hindi pwede eh.

Chanyeol and Mimi enjoyed Baekhyun’s food. Masyado nga atang nasarapan si Mimi at napadami ito ng kain na ikinatuwa naman ng dalawang adult. Nang matapos kumain ay tumambay muna sila sa living room para magpababa ng kinain nila. Mimi was slowly drifting off to sleep at agad naman itong nahalata ni Baekhyun kaya siniko niya si Chanyeol na nasa tabi niya. Nasa gitna kasi siya ng mag-ama at nakaunan si Mimi sa lap niya.

“Look, natutulog na ang anak mo.” Bulong ni Baekhyun at napatawa naman si Chanyeol nang makita na pilit nilalabanan ni Mimi ang antok. “Patulugin mo muna sa kwarto ko. May aircon doon, wala kasi dito sa living room eh. I’ll just wash the plates.”

“Ako na. Ikaw na tumabi kay Mimi. Ikaw na ang nagluto eh, ako na maghuhugas.”

“Ano ka ba, bisita kita.”

“I insist. Wait, buhatin ko na si Mimi, baka mahirapan ka, mabigat na din ‘to eh.”

Inihatid sila ni Chanyeol sa kwarto niya at inihiga si Mimi nang dahan-dahan sa kama ni Baekhyun. Binuhay naman ni Baekhyun ang aircon sa kwarto niya at kinumutan si Mimi pagkatapos. Katulad nga ng sinabi ni Chanyeol ay lumabas ito pagkatapos para maghugas ng pinagkainan nila. Tinabihan naman ni Baekhyun si Mimi at hinaplos ang buhok nito. It’s crazy how much Chanyeol trusts Baekhyun with Mimi, it’s like he knew from the start that Baekhyun really loves Mimi wholeheartedly.

Mimi stirred in her sleep and Baekhyun was fast to soothe her with a lullaby. “Hmmm, Teacher B?” Nakapikit na tawag nito at napangit na lang si Baekhyun habang patuloy na hinahaplos ang buhok ni Mimi.

“Yes, baby?”

“I really like you….” Nakapikit pa rin na sabi nito habang may ngiti sa mga labi. Baekhyun thinks Mimi is sleep talking which is super cute. Pero agad naman na nawala ang ngiti sa labi ni Baekhyun nang marinig ang sunod na mga salita ni Mimi, pati ang kamay niya ay napatigil sa paghaplos sa buhok ni Mimi. “Daddy likes you so much too, I know. Mimi is sad….because….because Daddy is worried about me. He’s scared that I would feel abandoned if he marries someone else, I heard him and Ninong Jongin…. Hmmm…..Teacher B, marry Daddy? Mimi would love you to be her Papa. You love Mimi.” 

After that, sumiksik si Mimi sa tabi ni Baekhyun at ipinagpatuloy ang tulog niya, unaware of the chaos she stirred in Baekhyun’s heart.

“Did you have fun kanina?” Tanong ni Chanyeol sa anak matapos punasan ang mukha nito. Nakauwi na sila sa bahay nila at papatulugin na niya si Mimi. 10 PM na rin kasi, lagpas na sa usual bedtime ni Mimi pero napasarap sila ng pagtambay sa bahay ni Baekhyun. Although, ramdam ni Chanyeol na medyo nag-iba ang mood ni Baekhyun paglabas nito ng kwarto matapos mapatulog si Mimi, hindi naman ito nailang sa kanila. Gusto na ulit ni Chanyeol bumalik.

Mimi yawned before answering. “I did. Can we go back there next time? I want to eat more of Teacher B’s cooking!”

“We will, if Teacher B permits.” 

“Hmm, okay!” Mimi yawned once more and Chanyeol chuckled.

“Antok na ang prinsesa ko?” Tumango naman si Mimi and she made grabby hands kay Chanyeol, nagpapabuhat. Agad naman itong binuhat ni Chanyeol at naglakad na palabas ng banyo at papunta sa kwarto ni Mimi, just across his room. Mag-isa na kasi itong natutulog like the big girl she is.

Dahan-dahang inilapag ni Chanyeol si Mimi sa kama nito at kinumutan ito. Chanyeol kissed Mimi’s forehead at tinabihan muna ang anak. He always does this. Iniintay niya na makatulog muna si Mimi bago pumunta sa kwarto niya.

Chanyeol was patting Mimi’s bum para mas mabilis itong makatulog nang bigla itong magsalita. “Daddy?”

“Hmm?” Chanyeol hummed as an answer.

“Do you want to have a family?” Nagulat naman si Chanyeol sa tanong ni Mimi pero agad din itong nakabawi at sinagot ang tanong ng anak.

“I have Mimi…”

“Not Mimi…Like…like Mommy’s family. With spouse po.”

Chanyeol chuckled nervously. “Bakit mo naman ‘yan natanong, ‘nak? Mimi is enough. I don’t need anyone else.”

“Because you’re lonely, I can see it. It’s okay, Daddy. Mimi won’t get mad. You can stop thinking about what I would feel, I want you to be happy like Mommy. Besides, I know you won’t abandon me like she did. Mimi will be a part of your new family, right?”

“Mimi, you are my family. I’m not lonely.”

Mimi giggled and she pinched Chanyeol’s lower lip. “Bad mag-lie.” Panggagaya nito sa sinabi niya kanina. “It’s okay, Daddy. You can add members to your family, right? It doesn’t have to be just us.” She smiled before yawning and closing her eyes, slowly drifting off to sleep. “Mimi loves Teacher B, Daddy does too. We can be a family. I would love that.”

Chanyeol was wide awake all night, thinking about what Mimi said. Ang hindi niya alam, Baekhyun was wide awake too.

Hindi naman ikakaila ni Chanyeol na he is slowly falling for Baekhyun. From the first time they met, Chanyeol already felt the pull pero he refuses to acknowledge it. He’s a father already. Dapat ay hindi na siya nag-iisip ng ganito, Mimi should be his only priority. Isa pa, nangako siya sa sarili niya na hindi na siya magmamahal ulit kasi lahat ng minamahal niya ay umaalis. Hindi niya yata kakayanin kung pati si Baekhyun ay mawala sa kanya.

Yes, it has been just a few months since they met, but Chanyeol found his soulmate. Chanyeol knows that Baekhyun is it for him. How? Baekhyun came into Chanyeol’s life and set things on fire. The last few months, Baekhyun helped Chanyeol grow. He motivated Chanyeol and pulled him out of his comfort zone. Baekhyun made Chanyeol comfortable. He was just…. home. Chanyeol found the thing he lost in Baekhyun.

But is he willing to risk it all? 

Ano pa ba ang kinakatakutan niya? He already got Mimi’s approval. 

But what if he lost Baekhyun?

Idiot, Chanyeol. You’ll lose him either way. 

If he does not confess, Baekhyun will end up dating someone else. Hindi naman pwedeng alone ito all his life. If he did and Baekhyun rejected him, masasaktan siya pero it’s better than regretting, diba? Mas okay pa na masaktan na siya ngayon kesa naman araw-araw siyang magwo-wonder in the future what if he confessed.

Chanyeol made up his mind. He will confess. 

And he will do it now before he changes his mind and chickens out.

Dali-dali siyang lumabas ng kwarto niya dala ang susi ng kotse niya at nag-drive papunta sa apartment ni Baekhyun. Hindi niya alam kung tulog na ito. He probably is, considering the fact na 2 AM na. Who in their right mind would visit someone at this hour? But Chanyeol’s not there to visit. He came there with a purpose.

Hindi na siya magiging duwag.

Baekhyun was startled by the incessant knocks on his door. Binuhay niya ang lamp shade sa may bedside table niya at kinuha ang phone niya to check the time. It is currently 2:27 AM, sino naman ang kakatok sa pinto niya ng ganitong oras? Hindi pa naman siya natutulog pero naiinis siya kasi kailangan niya pang bumangon eh ang sarap na ng higa niya. 

Kinuha niya ang baseball bat na binigay sa kanya ni Sehun bago niya sinilip sa peephole ang kung sino mang kumakatok sa pinto niya. Mahirap na, medyo sketchy pa naman sa neighborhood nila. Who knows baka mamaya ay mamamatay tao ang nasa likod ng pinto?

Nagulat naman si Baekhyun nang makita ang mukha ni Chanyeol sa may peephole. Anong ginagawa nito dito ng ganitong oras?

Agad na binuksan ni Baekhyun ang pinto ng apartment niya. “Chanyeol? Anong ginagawa mo dito? Anong ora—,”

“Hear me out. ‘Wag ka munang magsasalita, just…just hear me out, okay? Just listen…” Putol ni Chanyeol sa tanong ni Baekhyun at wala nang nagawa ang huli kundi tumango na lamang.

“All my life, I’ve been deprived of love. My own parents left me. Lahat ng minamahal ko umaalis, until Mimi. She’s the kid pero mas madami pa akong natutunan sa kanya. She taught that I shouldn’t fear love, na hindi dapat ako matakot magmahal dahil hindi lahat ng tao ay iiwanan ako. Baekhyun, I am standing here in front of you, with nothing but my heart to offer. I’m sure there are a lot of great guys out there, one who deserves you much better than I do, but this is me shooting my shot because I’m tired of being a coward. I have a lot of flaws and shortcomings, but I’ll spend the rest of my life making up for them. Masyadong mabilis, alam ko, at maaaring hindi tayo pareho ng nararamdaman pero Baekhyun, I like you. I really do. Can you be my boyfriend? I promise I will court you for the rest of my life, hindi na lang ako makahintay ngayon. I want to put a label on it.”

Baekhyun was wide eyed when Chanyeol finished. The least he expected to hear when he opened the door was a confession. Agad naman niyang inayos ang sarili niya at sinagot si Chanyeol.

Actually, the reason why he was up all night was because of what Mimi said. He realized that he wanted Chanyeol so much, it actually hurts. Pinaplano na niya kung paano siya lalayo dito pero nandito ito ngayon sa harap niya, professing his feelings for him. Gaano naman kaswerte si Baekhyun?

“I…Chanyeol…Please don’t break my heart, okay? I’m pretty fragile. Yes, you can be my boyfriend. I…I like you too.”

Agad na niyakap ni Chanyeol ng mahigpit si Baekhyun at hinalikan ang noo nito. Baekhyun couldn’t help but laugh when he realized how silly they were. There were even tears in the corner of Baekhyun’s eyes.

“Thank you. I like you so much, Baekhyun, God, I can’t even put it into words. ”

“You don’t have to, Chanyeol. You can just show me.”

And Chanyeol did.

Four months have passed since then and Chanyeol has been nothing but be the man of Baekhyun’s dreams. Sometimes, he ends up wondering whether Chanyeol was real. Pero time and time again, Chanyeol proves to him that he is. Nagkakamali din naman ito pero hindi natatapos ang isang araw na hindi nila ito nareresolba.

Today was the final trial for Mimi’s custody. They couldn’t wrap it up within one month pero ngayon lang ulit makakasama si Baekhyun sa trial and it will be the first time that he will see Minyoung again after the last time. He hates it na hanggang ngayon ay affected pa rin siya sa sinabi nito. He doesn’t want to see the look on her face when she realizes that Baekhyun did end up dating Chanyeol. 

Noong mga last trial kasi ay nag-stay na lamang si Baekhyun sa apartment niya kasama si Mimi. Ayaw din kasi ni Chanyeol na masyadong maexposed si Mimi sa mga problema nilang mga adults. The courthouse is too toxic for an innocent child like her. She doesn’t deserve to grow up like this, but after this, Chanyeol promises that she will receive nothing but love and happiness her way. He’ll shower her with so much love and affection. Together with Baekhyun.

Chanyeol knows it’s too soon — four months pa lamang silang mag-boyfriend at walong buwan pa lamang silang magkakilala — but he can’t see his future without Baekhyun. Masama ba na ang future na pinaplano niya ay kasama na si Baekhyun? Hindi naman, ‘diba? Hindi na sila bumabata, surely, Baekhyun dated him with marriage in mind too, right? Right?

And here comes the insecurities.

Chanyeol wasn’t that old either. Since he had Mimi when he was still young, even if Mimi’s seven years old now, Chanyeol’s just 26 years old. While Baekhyun is 21 years old, they have a five years age gap. Fresh out of college si Baekhyun at kakapasa lang nito ng board exam to be a licensed professional teacher. Actually, kaka-26 lang ni Chanyeol noong November, four days after Baekhyun said yes to being his boyfriend. It was the perfect birthday gift for Chanyeol.

“Ready?” Tanong ni Baekhyun at hinawakan ang kamay ni Mimi, sa kabila naman ay si Chanyeol ang nakahawak sa kamay ng bata. Mimi is between them. They are currently in front of the courthouse. Wala nang trial today dahil papakinggan na lamang nila ang ruling — ang desisyon ng korte kung kanino mapupunta ang custody ni Mimi.

Tumango si Chanyeol bago huminga ng malalim. “Ready.”

Hand in hand, they went inside the courthouse.

Mabilis naman ang naging proseso dahil babasahin na lamang naman ng korte ang ruling. They gave Chanyeol full custody and gave a deliberate schedule for visitations. The judge said malaking factor ‘yung pagpili ni Mimi kay Chanyeol. One thing they look for is the child’s well-being.

Chanyeol was happy, Baekhyun too, Mimi? More than everyone. Finally, si Daddy na niya lagi ang kasama niya. Don’t get her wrong. She loves her Mom pero hindi na talaga healthy doon. She was uncared for sa bahay nina Minyoung and it’s not a good feeling. Ayaw na niya ng ganoon. Sa Daddy at sa Teacher B niya, she can feel that she’s really loved.

Nang magpaalam ang judge at nang matapos ng mga abogado nila ang paperwork ay lumapit si Minyoung kina Chanyeol na nakatayo na at ready na din umalis. He was holding Baekhyun’s hand on his right and Mimi on his left. Chanyeol was about to walk away kasi baka kung ano-ano na naman ang sabihin nito kay Baekhyun when the woman suddenly knelt to be on Mimi’s eye level.

Mimi looked up to her Dad at kita ni Chanyeol ang confusion sa mga mata nito. Minyoung suddenly held Mimi’s face and caressed her soft locks. “Anak.” Mahinang bulong nito before wailing. Chanyeol sighed, hindi naman ganoon katigas ang puso niya. Naaawa siya kay Minyoung. He knows it will be hard for her kasi anak din nito si Mimi pero if she doesn’t want her gone, ‘diba dapat una pa lang ay hindi na niya ito pinabayaan? Mas kawawa ang anak niya kung patuloy itong titira sa puder ni Minyoung. She’s regretting it all now, Chanyeol knows. Hindi pa naman huli para humingi ng tawad. Kilala ni Chanyeol ang anak niya, Mimi has a pure heart. Sigurado siya na hindi pa nag-sosorry si Minyoung ay napatawad na ito ni Mimi.

“Anak, I’m sorry. Mommy is so sorry.” Paulit-ulit na sabi nito habang nakaluhod pa rin at yakap-yakap na ngayon si Mimi. Mimi took her hand off of Chanyeol’s hold at hinayaan naman siya nito. He understands. Medyo hinila niya palayo si Baekhyun para bigyan ng time ang mag-ina, pero nakapwesto pa rin sila kung saan kita nila ang ginagawa ng dalawa at naririnig nila ang pinag-uusapan ng mga ito.

Mimi brushed Minyoung’s hair and the latter cried even harder. “It’s okay, Mommy. I understand.”

Umiling si Minyoung. “No, no. Don’t forgive me. I don’t deserve your forgiveness. I neglected you.”

“But you cared for me for a long time too. You don’t have to worry about me now, Mommy. I have Daddy and Teacher B.”

Inalis ni Minyoung ang mukha niya sa pagkakasubsob sa leeg ni Mimi at nakita na nakangiti ang anak niya. She smiled but pain was evident in her eyes. She fucked up big time. She should have realized it when Mimi started being aloof with her. “Are you happy?” Tanong nito sa anak and Mimi beamed, her eyes were shining and oh god, Minyoung missed seeing that so much. Noong mga nakaraang buwan ay mga pilit na ngiti lang ang natatanggap niya mula sa anak. 

“I am.” Nakangiting sabi ni Mimi.

“Then, Mommy’s good. I want Mimi’s happiness too.” Once more, Minyoung embraced her daughter at nagtagal ito nang ilang minuto. Hindi malayo sa kanila ay nakatayo naman si Chanyeol at si Baekhyun na pinapanood lang sila. Baekhyun even has tears in her eyes. He can’t imagine how hard it is for a mother to be separated from her child, but Minyoung had it coming. She should have not played favorites. Mimi is an understanding girl, but she’s still a child. She deserves the same amount of attention and affection that Minyoung showers her twins.

Baekhyun squeezed Chanyeol’s hand when he saw that Minyoung stood up and held Mimi’s hand to come to them. Baka aawayin na naman siya nito.

When Minyoung was in front of them, bumalik na si Mimi sa side ni Chanyeol. Kita naman sa mga mata ni Minyoung na nasaktan ito pero that’s going to be their life now. ‘Yon ang desisyon ng korte.

Minyoung sighed before looking at Baekhyun and the latter was prepared to hear the painful words — anything — that will come out of Minyoung’s mouth. Anything, except for this. “I’m sorry. Sorry sa mga nasabi ko noong last time na nagkita tayo. I know it now, you were just looking out for Mimi. You all are, like I should have. I guess I really deserve this.” Minyoung chuckled mirthlessly.

“I’m sorry too.” Sagot ni Baekhyun at umiling naman si Minyoung.

“No, none of this is your fault. It’s mine alone. Just…promise me one thing.”

“What is it?”

“Don’t do the same. You and Chanyeol are dating now, right? Sooner or later, you’ll have a family of your own. Please…Please take care of my daughter. I know this is a lot to ask considering that even I, her mother, failed to do it.”

Baekhyun smiled and he nodded. “It’s not a lot, Minyoung. You don’t have to worry. Know that Mimi will be loved.”

Minyoung pulled Baekhyun into a hug na ikinagulat naman nito at ni Chanyeol. “Thank you. I’m glad I enrolled Mimi in your school.” 

She broke the hug and this time, kay Chanyeol naman humarap si Minyoung. She sighed. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry too.”

“Take care of our daughter, okay?”

“I will.”

Minyoung smiled. “Congratulations…you and Baekhyun. You deserve to be happy, Chanyeol. I’m sorry I took that away from you back then.”

With that, Minyoung walked away. Naiwan naman na nakatayo si Chanyeol, Baekhyun, at Mimi sa may likuran ng courthouse.

Chanyeol looked at Baekhyun and when he saw the smaller male’s smile, he couldn’t help but blurt out the words that he has been suppressing all this time. “I love you.”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Baekhyun. It was the first time that Chanyeol told him that he loves him! “I-I…” Baekhyun stuttered, nagulat talaga siya!

“It’s okay, you don’t have to say it back now. I can wait. I just want to tell you that I love you and I am so lucky that you came into my life. Mimi and I are lucky. Right, Mimi?” Mimi nodded. 

“I love you too, Teacher B!”

“I love Mimi too. Why don’t you call me Tito now, Mimi?” 

Mimi looked up at Chanyeol. Ayaw niya. Hindi kasi ito ang gusto niyang itawag kay Baekhyun. Actually, ilang beses na niya tinanong ang Daddy niya kung pwede niyang tawagin na Papa si Baekhyun pero ayaw ni Chanyeol. Baka kasi maging uncomfortable si Baekhyun. Mimi smiled at Chanyeol teasingly and the taller male’s eyes widened comically when he realized what Mimi wanted to do.

Mimi opened her mouth and before Chanyeol could stop her, she already asked Baekhyun. “Can I call you Papa?”

“Mimi!” Chanyeol reprimanded quickly and Mimi just smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of her neck. Napatawa naman si Baekhyun pero there are tears at the corner of his eyes. Who would have thought that he’ll have this in his life? Not him. 

“If your Dad’s alright with it, then I don’t see why not.” Sagot ni Baekhyun at napatingin naman si Chanyeol sa kanya nang hindi makapaniwala. Baekhyun just shrugged.

“Are you serious? You’re seriously okay with it?”

Baekhyun smiled. “I am.”

Humarap si Chanyeol kay Mimi, “Then, Mimi, hug your Papa. ”

Patakbong lumapit si Mimi kay Baekhyun at binuhat naman ito ni Baekhyun. Mimi kissed his cheeks before burying her face in Baekhyun’s neck. “I love you, Papa. Thank you for loving Mimi and Daddy.”

“I love you too, Mimi.” Bulong ni Baekhyun at napasimangot si Chanyeol.

“Where’s mine?” Chanyeol sulked. “Joke.” Agad na pahabol nito nang maalala ang sinabi niya kanina na handa siyang maghintay. Inirapan lang siya ni Baekhyun na hanggang ngayon ay buhat pa rin si Mimi. Mukhang inaantok na ito.

“Chanyeol.” Seryosong sabi ni Baekhyun.

“W-What…?”

“Would you like to meet my Mom?” 

And that was enough to make a powerful CEO like Chanyeol to cower in fear.

Tahimik lang ang byahe nila papunta sa Nanay ni Baekhyun. Beside from the constant voice of Baekhyun telling him where to turn, wala nang maririnig sa loob ng sasakyan. Mimi, for one thing, was asleep. Chanyeol, on the other hand, was nervous as hell. 

Would Baekhyun’s Mom like him? Ano ang gagawin niya kapag hindi siya gusto nito? Kaya niya bang iwan si Baekhyun kapag sinabi nito na hiwalayan niya ang anak niya? NO!

Saglit silang tumigil sa isang flower shop when Baekhyun asked and Chanyeol bought Baekhyun’s mom a big bouquet of flowers na tinawanan lang ni Baekhyun. Masyado daw itong nagpapa-impress. Inirapan lang siya ni Chanyeol dahil halata naman na natutuwa si Baekhyun sa dilemma niya.

“Would your Mom like me? Would she like Mimi?” Hindi mapigilan na tanong ni Chanyeol at tumingin sa kanya si Baekhyun bago nito hinaplos ang hita niya.

“She will, don’t worry.”

Chanyeol nodded, that’s enough. He trusts Baekhyun.

They drove for almost 30 minutes because of traffic pero nakarating din naman sila ng safe sa pupuntahan nila. Nagising na si Mimi sa byahe kaya naman kasama na nila ito nang lumabas sila ng kotse, hindi din naman ito iiwan doon ni Chanyeol.

When they stepped foot outside the car, Chanyeol realized that they were in a Columbarium somewhere in Quezon City and when he looked at Baekhyun, the latter just smiled at him at naglakad na papasok.

Hawak-hawak ni Chanyeol ang bouquet ng bulaklak na binili niya kanina at si Baekhyun naman ang may hawak sa kamay ni Mimi. Binati ni Baekhyun ang guard at magalak naman din siyang binati nito. Kilala pa nga nito si Baekhyun sa first name niya, a sign na madalas si Baekhyun dito.

Chanyeol followed Baekhyun until he stopped in front of a columbarium niche. Chanyeol stood beside Baekhyun and read the name written on the urn. Yuna Byun.  

Baekhyun smiled at hinimas ang glass. Mayroong mga picture ni Baekhyun sa loob at mga medals niya. Nandoon din ang printed result ng board exam niya to be a licensed professional teacher. Every milestone ni Baekhyun, makikita mo sa loob ng niche. 

“Hi, Ma! I brought someone today. They wanted to meet you.” Binuhat ni Baekhyun si Mimi. “Look, this is Mimi, she’s my daughter. She’s so pretty, right? Mimi, say hi to Lola.” Right then and there, gusto na lang umiyak ni Chanyeol. 

“Hi, Lola!” Masiglang bati ni Mimi.

“She’s Papa’s Mom.”

“Why is she there?” Curious na tanong ni Mimi.

“Well, she left this world a long time ago. This is her resting place, but she will always be in my heart.”

“Like Daddy and Mimi?”

Baekhyun smiled. “Like Daddy and Mimi.”

“Okay! Then Lola will be in Mimi’s heart too so she can be in a lot of people’s hearts!”

A lone tear escaped Baekhyun’s eyes na agad naman nitong pinunasan. “Really? Mimi will do that?”

“Of course! If Papa loves them, Mimi loves them as well.” 

“Thank you, Mimi.” Lumingon naman si Baekhyun kay Chanyeol na tahimik lang silang pinapanood. “Siya nga pala, Mama, may ipapakilala pa ako sayo.” Lumapit naman si Chanyeol sa kanila, they are now huddled up in front of Baekhyun’s Mom.

“Ma, this is Chanyeol, this is the man I love, ‘yung lagi kong kinekwento sa sayo. He’s my boyfriend and he’s Mimi’s father. Ma, you’re happy for me, right? I have a family now. Kinakabahan pa ‘to kanina kasi baka daw hindi mo siya magustuhan para sa akin. But you do, right? You like him for me, right? I know you do because I know you sent them for me.” 

Chanyeol was shocked, Baekhyun told his Mom that he loves him. He smiled at inipatong ang bouquet sa space na nasa niche. 

“Hello po. I’m Chanyeol Park, 26 years old na po ako and I have a seven year old daughter. I own a company so I can provide for Baekhyun. Wala din po akong criminal record and I can assure you that I’m not involved in anything illegal. I have nothing to offer to Baekhyun, to be honest. He’s too good for me, but I love him. I can’t promise that I will never make him cry because I’m just human, I know I’m bound to make mistakes. But know that I will never hurt him intentionally. Tita, you can rest assured that Baekhyun will be loved. I hope you’ll give me your blessing.”

Isang malamig na hangin ang bumalot kina Chanyeol at napangiti na lang silang dalawa. It’s Baekhyun’s Mom giving them her blessing.

“Thank you po, Tita. Thank you for giving birth to an amazing person like Baekhyun. Mimi and I will love him so much.”

“And I will love you both too.” Isinandal ni Baekhyun ang ulo niya sa balikat ni Chanyeol, buhat pa rin nito si Mimi. “I love you, Chanyeol.” Bulong ni Baekhyun. Hinalikan naman ni Chanyeol ang tuktok ng ulo ni Baekhyun.

“I love you too, so much that I can’t even explain it with words. I love you is not enough to tell you how much you mean to me. You are my home. Mine and Mimi’s. Thank you for coming into our lives.”

Nag-stay pa sila doon ng ilang minuto at nagkwento din si Baekhyun tungkol sa pamilya niya. It has been five years since his Mom died, fourth year high school si Baekhyun. Since then ay sa Tita — kapatid ng Mama niya — na niya ito nakatira at ‘yon din ang nagpaaral sa kanya ng college. Baekhyun never met his Dad, iniwan nito ang Mama niya noong pinagbubuntis pa lamang nito si Baekhyun. Kaya din apelyido ng Mama niya ang gamit ni Baekhyun, she cared for him all by herself.

Nang mapagpasyahan nilang umalis, pinauna ni Chanyeol si Baekhyun at si Mimi sa sasakyan. May sasabihin pa raw kasi ito sa Mama niya. Napakunot na lamang ang noo ni Baekhyun pero kinuha na din nito ang susi ng kotse ni Chanyeol para pumunta doon.

When Chanyeol was certain that Baekhyun and Mimi was out of range, inilabas niya ang singsing na laging nasa pocket ng suit niya. It’s the Park family’s heirloom. Sa kanya ito ibinigay ng Lola niya. 

Binuksan iyon ni Chanyeol at itinapat sa urn ng Nanay ni Baekhyun. “Tita, isa pa pala. I know masyado pang maaga. Hindi pa naman po ako magpopropose, but maybe one year from now? I want to marry your son. I’ll give him all the happiness and love that he deserves. This will look good on his hand, right? Will you give me your blessing po?” 

Once again ay niyakap ng malamig na hangin si Chanyeol and he smiled. “Thank you po.”

— Present Day, 2022 —

Nagising si Baekhyun sa mga mahihinang tawa. Ang sumalubong naman sa kanya ay ang ngiti ng mag-ama niya na pinapanood siyang matulog. Pareho pang nakadapa ang mga ito sa kama at nakaharap sa kanya para panoodin siya, nakapatong ang chin sa mga kamay nila, supporting their head. He groaned. Why are these Parks so creepy? Sobrang whipped talaga ng mga ito sa kanya. Natatawa na lang siya.

“Good morning, Papa!” Masiglang bati ni Mimi na sinuklian naman ni Baekhyun ng matamis na ngiti. 

“Good morning, sweetheart.”

Last year, he adopted Mimi. Hindi naman sila nahirapan kasi Minyoung gave up her parental rights to him easily. Sounds like a dick move kasi parang ayaw na nitong maging magulang ni Mimi, but that’s not the case. It’s just that, alam niya na mahal na mahal ni Baekhyun ang anak niya at aalagaan nito si Mimi, more than what she did. She’ll be happier with Chanyeol and Baekhyun as her parents. Binibisita pa din naman niya si Mimi.

Baekhyun and Chanyeol got married two years ago, tinupad nga nito ang sinabi niya sa Nanay ni Baekhyun na magpo-propose siya dito after a year. Baekhyun said yes and now, they’re the happiest they can ever be.

“Good morning, Love.” Bati naman ni Chanyeol kay Baekhyun at ngumuso ang huli, asking for a good monring kiss. Chanyeol laughed bago dumukwang para halikan ang labi ni Baekhyun. Mimi shrieked while covering her eyes. “Papa! Daddy!” Napatawa naman ang dalawa.

“Oof.” Biglang sambit ni Baekhyun nang maramdaman na may gumalaw sa loob ng tiyan niya. His baby is kicking. Baekhyun swears na football player ang anak nila paglaki dahil sa lakas nitong sumipa. Bumabakat pa nga ang paa nito sa tiyan ni Baekhyun. It hurts, but it makes Baekhyun happy because it just means that their son is healthy.

“He kicked?” Tanong ni Chanyeol at tumango naman si Baekhyun, pouting because it hurts.

Umayos naman ng pwesto si Chanyeol at si Mimi. Now, Baekhyun’s in the middle of the bed with his pajama top rolled upwards to reveal his seven-month old tummy. Chanyeol was on his left side and Mimi was on the right. They are fussing over Baekhyun’s tummy and peppering it with kisses na nakapagpatawa naman kay Baekhyun kasi nakikiliti siya.

“Hey, buddy. Don’t kick your Papa too much, it hurts him. Paglabas mo nalang, okay? Makikipaglaro si Daddy sayo ng football.”

“Have you thought of a name yet? Two months nalang.” Tanong ni Baekhyun kay Chanyeol at umiling naman ito.

“I can’t pick.”

“Can I name him, Papa?” Biglang tanong ni Mimi at napatingin naman ang mga magulang niya sa kanya. Baekhyun smiled and he caressed Mimi’s hair.

“What do you have in mind, sweetheart?”

“Yuan. I want to name him Yuan. I got it from Lola’s name!”

Chanyeol and Baekhyun stared at each other and they broke out into a huge grin.

“I love it. Yuan Byun-Park. ” Nakangiting sambit ni Baekhyun at hinalikan ang noo ni Mimi.

“Like Mimi! Micha Byun-Park!”

They all giggled and spent the day lazing around in bed. It’s raining so it’s definitely cuddle weather.

Mimi eventually fell asleep again. Chanyeol and Baekhyun were talking with hushed voices so they wouldn't disturb her sleep.

Nasa pagitan nila si Mimi kaya naman dumukwang na lang si Chanyeol so he could kiss Baekhyun on the lips. The smaller male giggled. “What was that for?”

Chanyeol shrugged. “Nothing, just…thank you. Thank you for loving us.”

“Thank you for loving me too.” Baekhyun said with a genuine smile on his lips, his hands are caressing his own belly.

Chanyeol sighed as he stared at the ceiling. “Twenty years old Chanyeol would have never guessed that this will be his life a few years down the road. Now, I have a complete family of my own, a beautiful daughter, a baby on the way, and a gorgeous and loving husband. I really have nothing to ask for.”

“Looks like we really made it, ano?”

“We did. We really did.”

Ang dami nilang pinagdaanan bago nila nahanap ang isa’t isa. Kahit noong magkasama na sila ay patuloy pa rin silang sinusubok ng mundo, pero hindi nila binitawan ang kamay ng isa’t isa. They were beside each other during their highs and lows. Their love never wavered. It just kept on getting stronger everyday.

It wasn’t on Chanyeol and Baekhyun’s plan to fall in love, but it was the best thing that ever happened to them. They weren’t looking for anything at all when they met each other. But then they met, and that was it. The world suddenly doesn’t spin the same. It was simple. It was easy. Falling for each other was natural and it was the best.

They weren’t looking for anything and then suddenly, they had everything.

— END —