SOLACE

“Gelal- he’s not her biological father…” “What do you mean? Did we get the test results wrong? Is there some kind of mistake?” "I don't know, but one thing is for sure, the test result you're holding is not real.” And that memory struck my core, and engraved in my mind that Daddy is not my biological father… Every time I keep forgetting it, this memory’s always stuck with me, as if it's some curse. And I hate it. ~19 years later~ “You're moving to Greece?" Momma asked from behind as I packed my stuff. Staying here felt like I was in some type of cage, unable to escape, unable to break free. Unable to experience freedom. And I can't bear it much longer… “Yes, and I’m staying with Dad." I retorted without a stutter. "But Dad is busy, no one is going to take care of you especially Tatiana-” "I’m not talking about him, Mom." I answered, facing her. “I was talking about Daddy." She furrowed her brows, obviously confused. “What do you mean?” “I'm talking about Daddy Lal, Momma.” I clarified. Because ever since we left Daddy's house 19 years ago, I never saw him again, yet alone talked to him after that. And I have been looking for him for the past 5 years, and as if fate was giving me a second chance—I got lucky by having a chat with his son. “Daddy Lal? Nagkaroon ka ng contact sa Daddy Gelal mo?” Tanong nito na halatang naguguluhan. I didn't answer nor nod my head in agreement, instead I continued to pack my essentials and whatever I needed. “I can’t believe this." She scoffed. "Nasa Greece siya? After all this time?” “I am still not sure if he's in Greece, but I'm still going.” Sagot ko at ipinagpatuloy ang ginagawa. “Well, if you did happen to find him, update me okay?” Paalala nito. I didn't answer and just continued to pack my stuff, until I sighed when I heard the bedroom door close. "I will, Momma…" I whispered to myself and zipped my suitcase. Grabbing my phone, I picked a number and sent a message to it right away. Lia: Is your stuff ready? El: Yeah, all packed. Lia: I’m at the store, I’ll pick u up at 2AM. Tito Kaji’s going to be with us niyan. Pinatay ko na ang cellphone ko at saka nilagay sa bulsa ng aking pantalon, buhat buhat ang bagahe upang maihanda na sa sala. “Anong oras ka aalis, nak?” Tanong ni Momma na ikinalingon ko. “Alas dos, kasi maaga aalis ang eroplanong na-book ko.” Sagot ko. Nakita ko’ng pinunasan ni Momma ang kanyang mukha at narinig itong suminghot, kung kaya't nilapitan ko siya at niyakap. “Momma, don't cry na. It makes me sad.” Giit ko at pinunasan ang kanyang mukha. “Don't be sad, anak. I’m just happy you found Daddy.” Sagot nito na may bahagyang ngiti sa labi. “We are still both unsure if he's actually in Greece, Momma. But whenever something comes up, I’ll update you immediately.” Pangako ko rito. “Just take care of yourself while you're there, and I hope makita natin siya.” Wika nito. “Yeah, I will and I will pray for whatever outcome we’ll get.” Sagot ko at ngumiti nang bahagya. Because if there's one thing I'm sure? Is that I’m gonna find him and bring him back home…