Page 73 of The Odds of Happily Ever After
Throwing me a smirk, Ate pulled me back to the rest of our family. “Welcome home, Lu.”
Gabe
How are things there?
Luna
Papa just asked Jason when he’s proposing to Ate
Gabe
Who won the bet?
Luna
I did I said he’d ask during dessert hahaha
Gabe
Congrats. What did Jason say?
Luna
Mama ordered Papa to get the gifts in their room before Jason could say anything
Gabe
He must be relieved.
Luna
He’s just laughing. Ate’s pissed hahaha
“You guys!” Iran my fingers across the buttery soft fabric of the dress Ate and Jason gifted me. Not only did it feel heavenly, the design and cut were exactly my style. It featured dainty pastel florals and had spaghetti straps, a V neckline, and a flowy midi skirt. “It’s beautiful. Thank you so much.”
Leaning toward Ate, I gave her a hug, then reached across her to do the same with Jason.
“We saw it at the mall and instantly thought of you,” Ate said. “I hope I got the size right.”
“It looks perfect.” This was the first new dress I’d had in a while. I’d been so determined to cut down my expenses that I’d stopped shopping for myself unless absolutely necessary. I couldn’t wait to find the perfect time to wear it.
Mama lifted the vintage green and orange silk scarf I’d thrifted for her. “Luna, this is gorgeous.” Her smile held a touch of sadness. “Your lola would have loved it.”
That was exactly why I bought it. After losing her hair during chemo, Lola added scarves to her wardrobe. Mama did the same after Lola passed away.
Putting my dress on the sofa, I sat on the armrest beside Mama and wrapped my arm around her shoulders. “It will look great on you.”
She rubbed my forearm as I leaned my head on hers. “Thank you, Luna.”
On her other side, Papa cleared his throat. “This looks fancy,” he said as he studied the tie I got him.
“Try wearing it with a plain shirt,” I told him. “It will give you a very respectable vibe.”
His forehead creased as he seemed to weigh my words. Finally, he nodded, and I released the breath I’d been holding. “Okay. Salamat, anak.”
Papa’s gruffthank youput a lump in my throat. It felt like a badge of approval, though he hadn’t said so outright.
“You’re welcome, Papa.” I dipped my head at him because he had never been one for hugs. Then I returned to the couch and sat on something solid.
