SAVE ME, MR. SCOTT

"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen," our classmate acting as the officiant greeted cheerfully. "We are gathered here today, on this beautiful day of June 08, in the year of 2017, to witness and celebrate the union of Jairah and Zaldy. Let’s listen to their commitment vows," he added before pointing at us. "In the name of God, I, Jairah Domingo, take you, Z-Zaldy Scott, to be my w-wedded and h-handsome husband, to have, to hold, to kiss, and to hug from this day forward, for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until the sun no longer shines, until the stars lose their brightness, until the world stops spinning, until forever meets its end. These are my vows to you, M-mister Zaldy," I stuttered, trying to smile at the man in front of me. It seemed like I didn't want to utter the words I just said. The sound of "Can't Help Falling in Love" filled the room, along with the noise from my loved ones, my classmates. Here I am now, in front of the entire class, performing a role play about a wedding ceremony. "Congratulations!" Everyone cheered happily. "You two are so sweet, Jairah and Zaldy," praised Farah, our class president. "Right! You have great chemistry!" shouted another classmate. "Can you just be together in real life? I'll list down the attendees for your wedding right away," Jessiee, our class secretary, asked. "I-I guess... Maybe," he stammered weakly before looking at me. I wasn't pleased with what he said, so I just nodded at him and left him there at the front. I sat down and reflected on why I agreed to such a situation. Earlier, our English teacher, Ms. Shakira, said she would give a high score for a good presentation. My groupmates chose me to be the lead because they knew I was fluent in English, and we also had an advantage because I knew I was better-looking than the others in our group who would take the lead in the presentation. I agreed to take the lead because I was confident that I would outshine the other groups, but I didn't expect that a beggar in our classroom would be chosen as my partner. I'm not being judgmental, okay! But who would agree to be paired with a dark-skinned man, messy hair, lots of pimples, and, above all, smells bad? He doesn't have the qualities I'm looking for. Even if this is just a role play, I want my partner to be decent so I won't be embarrassed. I'm Jairah Domingo, 17 years old and currently residing in Calatagan, Batangas. I am a very picky person when it comes to many things and I tend to argue a lot when I don't like something. Perhaps, I inherited this trait from the Domingo Family, which is well-known in our community because of our family's wealth. Growing up in a privileged family, I have always been exposed to the finer things in life. However, this has also made me somewhat entitled and easily frustrated when things don't go my way. I have always been used to getting what I want, when I want it. This has caused me to have a short fuse and a tendency to be confrontational when faced with challenges or disagreements. Despite these negative qualities, I am aware that I need to work on my attitude and learn to be more patient, understanding, and humble. I know that my privileged upbringing has influenced the way I behave and interact with others. I am determined to break free from the stereotype of being a spoiled and arrogant rich kid. I want to prove to myself and to others that I am capable of growth and change. I want to become a more compassionate and empathetic person, someone who is willing to listen and compromise instead of always insisting on having my own way. I believe that by acknowledging my faults and working on them, I can become a better version of myself and make a positive impact on those around me. After ten minutes, our class ended so my friends and I went to the canteen to have lunch, but they couldn't get over the presentation earlier, it seemed like they were full from what happened earlier. "You guys were great at acting earlier! Super nice!" Caely happily said and even gave a thumbs up. She's one of my friends who never lets go of the last word she said. "True twinny, I want to see you two get married in the future," Casey, Caely's older twin sister, also said. "No, no. Stop that! It should be happening now!" Keziah, my noisy friend, protested. I lightly slapped her shoulder. "Are you crazy? What desperate woman would marry him? Are you even listening to what you're saying?! Ugh! You're Disgusting!" I complained to them before taking a bite of my food. They seemed stunned by what I said as they avoided eye contact with me. Goodness gracious! They can just blurt out words like that when they know the situation and my type in a man. I'm easily attracted to fair-skinned men, with smooth skin, muscles, and six-pack abs, and above all, handsome especially when they smile. That's what I really like in a man, but I can't find that type of man because there are many obstacles when it comes to my love life. No matter what I do, I can't pursue the love I desire because of my family's restrictions, especially my father. He easily gets angry when I have crushes or even just talks to guys, so he keeps a close watch on me. Actually, Caely, Casey, and Keziah were paid by daddy to watch over me and prevent me from having interactions with guys, but they are rebellious and persistent, so they even bring me closer to guys. I feel that they won't let me lose to my daddy, but it's annoying because the guys they always introduce or recommend to me are not appealing to me. They don't have the qualities I like. First impressions are a must, right? First impressions are crucial in any social setting, and this holds true for men as well. When meeting someone for the first time, a man's appearance and demeanor are often the first things that are noted. It is important for a man to present himself in a clean and well-groomed manner, as this conveys respect for oneself and others. A firm handshake, good posture, and a friendly smile can go a long way in creating a positive impression. In addition to physical appearance, how a man carries himself and communicates is also important in making a good first impression. Confidence, respect, and sincerity are qualities that are highly valued in Filipino culture, and men are expected to exhibit these traits in their interactions with others. Being polite, courteous, and attentive are also key components in leaving a lasting positive impression on others. Furthermore, the way a man presents himself in terms of his language and behavior also plays a significant role in making a good first impression. Using proper language and avoiding profanity or offensive jokes are important in showcasing respect and decency. Being mindful of one's actions and words can help in building trust and credibility with others. By paying attention to their appearance, behavior, and communication, men can create a positive and lasting impression on others. Ultimately, a man's first impression can greatly impact his relationships, career opportunities, and overall success in life. "I think I found the right guy for you. There he is!" Keziah winked before nodding towards the guy who just entered. I glanced at the guy and noticed that he had the qualities I look for in a man. His fair and smooth skin complemented our school uniform. His muscles were evident, and I could tell he had six-pack abs by the way his body looked. I carefully observed his movements and demeanor, and I saw what I was looking for in him. He looked handsome, especially when he smiled while talking to his other friends. "He's gay," Casey said nervously, and when she mentions that, it usually has a negative impact. "Why?" The three of us asked, furrowing our brows. "Just look closely! It's evident from his actions." "Actions? What's evident in his actions?" I asked curiously. "He's gay." My eyes widened at what she said, and I wanted to object, but when the guy sat down, I was surprised because he crossed his legs and held the spoon delicately. We all sighed deeply in unison. The joy in my eyes from finding the guy I was looking for was replaced by disappointment. "Such a waste, he's so handsome. He would have been super nice," Caely's voice carried regret. "You're right. I thought I could escape my dad to be with him. What a letdown," I said. "You're ridiculous, are you really going to be with a guy just to escape your dad?" Keziah asked angrily. "Why not? It's a super nice idea, and I support you," I replied. "Wow, really! Shouldn't you emulate what we did in our role play earlier?" "Casey, what's the point? Jairah's dad will still make the decision." "So, are you going to be with him right away, Jairah?" I paused to consider her question. Am I really going to be with the type of guy I like just to escape from daddy? Why not? If that's the only way to get away from the life I have, then so be it. Like Caely said earlier, it's a super nice idea because I'm finding a way to escape from reality. "Well, Ke—" I stopped speaking abruptly as a guitar suddenly sounded behind us, followed by murmurs and whispers echoing inside the canteen. "What's going on?" I asked in wonder. Instead of answering, my friends stood up and joined the guitar playing. "What's happening?" I was really curious about what was going on, so I stood up too, and I was surprised to see Zaldy approaching me while singing and playing the guitar. What madness is he doing? Is he going crazy? Isn't he aware that the role play is over? "Jairah, th-this is not part of a role play. I'm doing this because I think I'm f-falling in love with you," he said with a smile. "Stop what you're doing, please?" I scolded him. It's embarrassing because everyone is looking at us here in the canteen. I'm in trouble now! "I'll only stop this if you answer... Jairah Domingo, w-will you m-marry me?" WHAT? Is he offering me marriage? Is he serious? He's really gone crazy!!!