LYRA
Pagbukas ng elevator ay pinauna niya kong pumasok.
Nice, gentleman.
Nasa loob na kami pareho.
Tahimik.
Close space.
Masikip ang elevator kahit dalawa lang kami.
Ramdam ko ang init ng katawan niya kahit hindi siya nakadikit.
“For today,” sabi niya ulit, parang ina-clarify ang sarili niya.
“You worked like someone who belongs here.” Napalingon ako.
“I belong here, this is my father's company, remember?" Taas kilay kong sagot sa kanya.
His jaw tightened slightly.
“You walk in like you’re challenging the room.”
“And?”
“And you don’t have to, kung ang paniniwala mo na you belong here.”
The elevator doors closed.
Biglang mas tumahimik.
Mas bumigat ang hangin.
“You think I’m trying too hard,” sabi ko, this time mas mahina.
“I think you’re used to fighting
