"Hey! That's my dad!"
Magnolia instantly recognized the sound of her dad's owner jeep, so she jumped up and headed to the gate to open it. She swung the gate open for the vehicle. As soon as it was fully open, she stopped Pipoy from running out. But when Pipoy saw Magnolia's dad, he wagged his tail like crazy.
"Dad! You're early! I thought you'd be back at dawn?"
"I managed to get a sow. It's all split up—blood, innards, and meat are all separated."
"Dad, this is Christopher, my classmate. I invited him over because I didn't want to be alone. We had a half-day class, but it rained."
"G-g-good evening, sir."
I greeted Magnolia's dad. Her dad was a tall, dark-skinned man. Buff and built like a tank. I'd say he's around 6'3". I reached out to shake his hand and did the traditional "mano" gesture.
"God bless you. You're Tagalog, right?"
"Yes, sir. I'm from Tondo, Gagalangin, before my mom transferred me here. I'm from Malimpec."
"It's late. How are you getting home?"
"Dad, let's give him a ride."
Magnolia cut in. We were just hanging out on the porch outside.
"M-Mags, it's okay. It's not even 10 yet. I'm sure there's still a jeepney trip left."
"Uh... I think I'll head out now. We were just waiting for you to get home."
"Alright, son. Take care. Are you courting my daughter?"
I was taken aback and got a bit nervous but knew what to say.
"We're getting to know each other, sir. For now, what's important is that we get along. We're just starting to build our relationship."
"That's fine, son. You seem decent and trustworthy. You're welcome here anytime. This is the first time Magnolia brought a classmate home, so you must be special to her. She's my only child. I trust you."
That praise from Magnolia's dad felt amazing. Mags just stood there, arms crossed, smiling sweetly with her dimples showing.
"Thank you for the trust, sir. Rest assured, you'll be the first to know if we become official. For now, we're enjoying each other's company and conversations."
Magnolia's dad nodded slightly, and as he went inside the house, he rested his right hand on my shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze and pat, saying, "You're alright, kid."
What a fantastic end to the evening. Finally, luck was on my side.
"Are you sure you don't need a ride?"
Her dad turned to me again, a bit concerned.
"No need, sir. I'm sure there's still a jeepney trip left. Plus, you're tired from the trip. You should rest. And Magnolia will be left alone."
"I was planning to go with you."
"No, it's fine, Mags. It's still early. Get some rest; we have school tomorrow."
"Hey! Make sure you come early."
"Of course! You know me."
I finally convinced them I was leaving, and Magnolia walked me to the gate. I told her it was okay there since it was drizzling. We'd see each other again tomorrow.
"Chris..."
She called softly.
"I love you!"
"I love you, too!"
I replied without hesitation as my fingers slowly slipped from her hand. When the gate was fully closed, I bolted to the jeepney terminal heading to San Carlos.
It was just a drizzle, and I managed to catch a jeepney that was packed inside, so I climbed onto the roof. There were plenty of others up there, but I found a spot and settled in for the ride.