UNREQUITED LOVE

A Different Path

It is 7 a.m., and Allen is still sleeping. His mother, Felisa, accompanied his siblings to school without disturbing him. She left a note on the table for Allen to find. Eventually, Allen wakes up and prepares breakfast, even though it is late. Felisa returns home and joins him for the meal.

The next day, Allen decides not to go to work and instead stays at home for a week to rest and take care of household chores. During this time, his mother calls him for breakfast, but he declines, saying he will eat later. After a quick meal, he ventures off to the countryside alone, enjoying the beautiful scenery and collecting wild fruits to bring back for the family. He finds a small hut that was nearly destroyed by a typhoon and takes a nap there, enjoying the soothing breeze and the sounds of birds. After bathing in the creek, he heads home feeling satisfied and is greeted by his delighted mother. "What a refreshing day, Mom. I think I will make this a regular routine," he tells her. As the week comes to an end, Allen returns to work, but he finds himself deep in thought about Diana.

Nevertheless, he continues to work hard as a helper for his mother, ensuring the survival of their family. However, an unexpected event occurs that prompts him to resign from his job and pursue an independent livelihood. A new work supervisor, Bella, is appointed. She is a pretty, strong-willed lady who is half his age. At work, she approaches him and expresses admiration for his hard work and dedication, qualities she's been searching for in a man.

Allen's colleagues harbored envy towards him as Bella displayed favoritism towards him. Bella even requested his assistance in fixing things in her room, which resulted in extra income for Allen. He received meager earnings for the additional hours he devoted to the task. One particular day, Bella summoned him to her office, causing him to feel anxious that potential issues may arise. Bella inquired, 'Could you please drive me home? I am feeling unwell today, and I need to go home.' Allen responded affirmatively, suggesting, 'I believe it would be best if I promptly escort you to the nearest clinic.'

However, Bella declined his offer, stating that she was fine and merely desired rest at home. Allen accompanied her to her residence, fulfilling her wish by remaining there for an hour. Instead of returning to work, he proceeded home, where he pleasantly surprised his siblings with the imported delicacies and groceries bestowed upon him by Bella. 'You have arrived home early. Have you completed your work?' his mother inquired. 'My boss was unwell and asked me to drive her home,' he replied. Allen's siblings experienced sheer elation upon receiving such delectable food, a taste they had never before encountered. He exemplified the role of a responsible and caring older brother, or 'kuya,' consistently being there for his siblings.

Subsequently, he proceeded to prepare dinner, utilizing the fresh ingredients harvested from his small garden situated in the backyard. His mother remarked upon Allen's exceptional culinary skills and his preference for utilizing organic products - foods freshly harvested from the garden, locally referred to as 'Gulay Bisaya.' 'Your future partner is truly fortunate. You are an excellent cook,' his mother playfully teased him, accompanied by a smile.

The following day, Allen engaged in a spearfishing excursion with his newly acquainted neighbors. They successfully caught some fish and subsequently prepared a 'kinilaw' dish, enjoying a pleasurable time together. His friends inquired about his occupation and light-heartedly teased him about Bella. Allen responded by emphasizing the folly of taking advantage of his boss's benevolence.