Rule #1: Never Fall In Love

Chapter 01

#RNFIL01 

"Why can't you stop gambling? Ang aga-aga aalis ka na agad para mag sugal?!"

"It's none of your business, Cathy."

"Do you hear yourself? Wil, we're losing our properties just because of your vices!"

"This is my money so I'll decide where I will spend it! You have no say in this!"

They say waking up in the morning is a blessing but for me, it's a nightmare.

Since I was a kid, my parents taught me to thank Him for giving me another day and another chance to live, but how could I thank him if every time I wake up in the morning, all I could remember was what happened few days ago?

Kinusot ko ang aking mga mata at nag inat-inat. Bumangon ako sa kama at inayos iyon. I straightened the bedsheet first and then proceeded with the comforter, and then I fluffed the pillow.

After that, I headed to the comfort room and brushed my teeth while contemplating if I will attend my classes today.

"First day of school," I sighed upon remembering the day today. Well, I think it's okay to go to school instead of staying here. Mas okay na distraction din 'yon para makalimutan ko ang nangyari.

"Ate Phillene, Mama asked if you'll join us for breakfast." Rinig kong boses ni Dairy galing sa labas ng kwarto ko.

"Yeah, just tell her I'll finish toothbrushing first." I simply answered.

Pagpunta ko sa dining area ay nakita ko agad sila Mama at Papa kasama na rin si Dairy. I greeted them good morning without flashing a fake smile. Lumapit ako sa cupboard para kumuha ng breakfast ko. Every morning, I rarely eat heavy meals, so I grabbed the cornflakes.

Sunod ay kumuha ako ng bowl at kutsara pagkatapos ay 'yong gatas sa ref. I placed everything on the counter before I poured the cereal first and then filled half of the bowl with milk. I just stirred it for a few seconds before I took a seat on the dining table.

Bago ako magsimulang kumain ay napatingin ako sa mga magulang ko at kay Dairy.

I looked at them and this really was not how I wanted to start my mornings. I sighed and then started eating my breakfast.

Growing up, I was always told to be honest all the time. But how could I do that if my own parent couldn't do that?

I was shocked by what I've witnessed!

That was also the first time I felt so disappointed to Papa.

"Did you finish preparing your things for school last night?" Mama asked hesitatingly. Obviously trying to start a conversation to break the silence.

"Yes, Ma." I simply replied.

Silence.

Silence enveloped us after I spoke. Papa was also quiet as if nothing happened earlier.

Na para bang hindi sila nag aaway ni Mama kanina.

"Phil —" natigilan sa pagsasalita si Mama nang may mag doorbell. Umalis siya saglit at kaming tatlo na lang nila Papa ang naiwan.

"Is there a problem, Phillene?" Papa inquired before he drunk his coffee. He probably noticed I was looking at him.

You are the problem, Pa.

Looking at him, memories of what I witnessed a couple of days ago flashed in my mind.

Paano mo nga ba nagawa yon, Papa?

Paano mo kami nagawang lokohin?

Bakit sa pamilya pa natin kailangan mangyari 'to?

Naikuyom ko ang mga kamay ko sa galit. Bago pa ako makapag sabi ng kung ano ay yumuko ako at huminga ng malalim.