We grew together. He was always present during my birthdays. He will always be with my father whenever he will go to visit me. He will always check up on what I am doing. Always wanting to tell him everything that experience during the weekdays.
He told me; “Don’t leave any details, okay. I want you to tell me everything that made you happy.”
I can openly tell him about my secrets, and he was always willing to listen. A find a brother and a friend in him at the same time.
I remember praying to God that I could’ve have him as an older brother, and he always assured me that not just because were cousins I would just stop myself in treating him as an older sibling. He will always tell me that he is a brother and that I will always treat him like one.
Of course- it’s not hidden. The guys that I liked before, he knows about all of them. And he was always invested with what I tell him. He was one of my number one cheerleader, pushing me to do something about me crushing on a guy. He will always laugh whenever I tell him I like someone and he will always say that, “You got that from me. You got our DNA. Our family are eagles eyeing their preys, you should capture the guy’s heart. Follow some of your brother’s amazing skills in swooning girls.”
Not until something that was hidden for a very long time was brought to the surface. A fight came between my father and Erinoi. This was the first time I saw him that angry. Rino rarely gets angry. He always had that smile on his face. But this time, it was different. He looks like he was about to do something that can potentially hurt my father.
I hid myself from their sight. I just stood there waiting about what’s going to happen.
“I’m done with the lies, papa. When will you ever tell her the truth? Nai deserves to know the truth- she’s my sister. I have obeyed you for so long, this is the only thing I ever ask for. Why won’t you give it to me?”
“Papa.” I was shaking while I was saying that word. I walk towards them.
“Nai.” They both said in unison. Panic is visible in their eyes.
“So, it is indeed true. That Erinoi is my brother?” None of them answered my question.
“It is true isn’t it? That my doubts are right all along. For how long are you planning to deceive me? If I didn’t hear your conversation, I wouldn’t even have the confirmation that I have been eager to know.” I shouted heavily.
“All I ever wanted is your honesty, Papá. That I will hear the exact words it from you. That you will tell me that Erinoi is my brother. But you didn’t. You got so many chances, Papá. And you, Erin. You knew the truth too. But why did you still choose to ride with my fathers lies? I-I thought you are my best friend? You’ve always wanted to know everything but me. This single truth- you can’t even share? You too even hid it from me.”
I was brought back to my current moment. My brother’s arms are still around me. A tear fell down my face.
“We’ve been through a lot.”
“And we’re strong enough to get pass it.” He added.
“So, as my good sister. Why don’t you partake in arranging your brother’s wedding?”
I let out a huge laugh. And went on hugging him more.
“Why didn’t you say earlier that you’re needing my brilliant ideas to be used for some good will, eh? Instead of making me mad about your idea of using mint-green to your wedding?”
“You take my words too seriously. I was just joking.”
My brother and I both laugh at ourselves.
“Alright. I’ll do it. I’ll help you and Sunny to have the best wedding time ever.”
My brother laughed and said; “That-is a music to my ear.” He kissed my cheeks and proceeded to hug me even more.
[The Next Day]
I went inside the church to talk to the priest for the details. My annoying brother pleaded to do it for the two of them since they’re off to have some alone time as a couple. And here I am waiting to have a talk to the priest.
“Miss.” I heard a manly voice that thundered inside the church. It sounds too manly. The type of voice that can make girls squeal in awe because it’s just to attractive.
I slowly looked back to see who it is and I saw a man who’s wearing a cassock. That black undergarment worn by someone who serves the church.
My expression turned sour upon seeing his clothing. It’s a waste. This guy is just my type. He looks like the lead character of a Korean movie. An oppa.
“Are you the head priest?” I asked without thinking about courtesy. I can’t fathom the fact that this guy is a priest.
“No. I’m one of the altar servers.”
My mouth formed into “O”. He looks at me strangely which made me close my mouth and showed him my smile. Hoping it will captivate him.
“I’m sorry. I’m not looking for a girlfriend. And I don’t like girls drooling at me during first meeting.” He cockily said in front of my face.
My eyes get bigger upon hearing him said his comment too confidently. I made a tsk. It really sucks because this guy looked so full of himself after he said his words. He seemed so proud, like he had achieved a higher accomplishment.
I can hear Jordan concealing his laughter to break out of his mouth and that made me angrier. I glared at him haughtily and he covered his mouth to avoid showing his laughter.
I move my chin up and walk away from the scene with my head held high. This is not something that should make me feel embarrassed. I managed to look back and gave the guy an eye roll. He was supposed to be on my list, too bad he showed me some attitude…