12.

I woke up to the harsh light of the morning sun piercing through my face and the sound of my phone ringing. I groggily reached for the alarm clock on my bedside table and saw that it was 5:00 AM. Jarred was still fast asleep beside me.

I picked up my phone and saw that it was our friend group chat calling me. I checked my face for any morning dust or imperfections before answering the call.

"Finally, the great Clyde joined the call," Ashley's loud voice echoed through the phone.

I yawned and replied, "Ang aga, Ash."

Ashley responded, "Gusto kalang namin kamustahin."

As I looked at the camera, I noticed that Ashley's background wasn't her bedroom or condo. I raised an eyebrow and asked, "Sa'n ka ngayon?"

Ashley suddenly panicked and said, "Ano, sa ano... sa bahay ni Mama."

I knew she was lying, and I raised my eyebrows at her. "Okay," I said, playing along.

Ashley quickly changed the topic and asked Kiraz, "Ba't ang tahimik mo diyan, Kiraz?"

Kiraz responded with a sleepy voice, "Inaantok pa ko, gaga." I burst out laughing at Kiraz's response.

Kiraz asked me, "Musta ang lipat bahay?"

I replied, "It was fun."

Ashley teased me, saying, "Fun talaga, nadiligan eh."

I grinned at her, and she added, "Kitang-kita 'yung hickey, et."

I quickly covered my neck, feeling a bit embarrassed. Kiraz suddenly said, "Nawa'y lahat."

Ashley responded, "Anong nawa'y lahat? Gago balita ko sa office ni Clint niyo ginawa."

Kiraz defended herself, saying, "Kaya pala lagi kang andon sa office ni Clint." I added fuel to the fire, teasing Kiraz and Ashley.

Just then, Jarred stirred beside me and rubbed his eyes. He hugged me and snuck his head onto my neck, whispering, "Morning, baby."

Ashley shouted through the phone, "Gago, respeto naman, Pre!"

I just laughed and caressed Jarred's cheek. Kiraz asked, "Anyway, are you guys all free today?"

I looked at Jarred, who said, "We will go to church." Kiraz asked if we were free after church, and Ashley invited us to her condo.

I raised my eyebrows, curious about what we would be doing. Ashley said, "Inoman, duhh!"

She added, "Ang hindi pupunta mamalasin sa love life."

I ended the call, still laughing and shaking my head at our friends' antics.

After finishing my call with my friends, I stood up and headed to our bathroom to start my morning routine. Jarred joined me, and we brushed our teeth together, teasing each other playfully.

As Jarred accidentally swallowed water while brushing his teeth, I couldn't help but laugh. "Kadire ka!"

He just chuckled and replied, "Mahal mo naman" winking at me.

I rolled my eyes good-naturedly and continued with my morning routine. After we finished, we headed downstairs to prepare breakfast together. As we entered the kitchen, I said, "Ako sa fried rice, ikaw sa ulam" Jarred nodded, and we started cooking together.

One of the things Jarred and I have always believed in is sharing responsibilities and doing things together. We've seen how some marriages fail because one partner gets overwhelmed with household chores and work, while the other partner doesn't lend a hand. We didn't want that to happen to us.

By doing things together, we can support each other and rest together when we get tired. It's not just about dividing tasks; it's about being a team and facing life's challenges together. And as we cooked breakfast side by side, I felt grateful for this partnership and the love we shared.

As I stood at the stove, expertly flipping the fried rice, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Jarred was beside me, cooking up a storm with the eggs and bacon, and the aroma of our combined efforts was making my stomach growl with anticipation.

But it was more than just the food that was making me happy. It was the fact that Jarred and I were cooking together, side by side, like we had done countless times before. It was a ritual that I cherished, a moment of quiet intimacy that we shared together.

As we cooked, we sang along to the music playing in the background. The song was one of our favorites, a romantic ballad that always made us feel like we were the only two people in the world.

"That first night we were standin' at your door," Jarred crooned, his voice blending perfectly with mine.

"Fumblin' for your keys, then I kissed you," I sang back, feeling a flutter in my chest as I remembered that magical night.

We continued singing, our voices harmonizing as we cooked and danced around the kitchen. The lyrics spoke of a love that would last a lifetime, of promises made and vows taken.

As we reached the chorus, Jarred turned to me and smiled, his eyes shining with love. "I promise that I'll love you for the rest of my life," he sang, his voice filled with conviction.

I smiled back, feeling my heart swell with emotion. "I promise that I'll love you for the rest of my life," I echoed, my voice barely above a whisper.

As we finished cooking and sat down to enjoy our meal together, I knew that this was what love was all about. It was about the little moments, the quiet intimacy, the promises made and kept. And as I looked into Jarred's eyes, I knew that I would love him for the rest of my life.

As we entered the church, my mom's eyes lit up, and she greeted us with a warm smile. However, her attention was solely focused on Jarred, and she barely acknowledged me. "Jarred, anak," she said, using the term of endearment she usually reserved for me.

I playfully teased her, "Ma, ako 'yung niluwal mo oh?" highlighting the fact that she seemed to have forgotten about me.

My mom's face turned bright red as she realized her mistake. "Oh, hi," she said, giving me a quick hug before turning her attention back to Jarred. "How's your work naman, Jarred?"

Jarred looked at me and smirked, teasing me about how my own mother seemed to love him more. I pouted and walked away, seeking comfort from my brother.

"Where's Ate Keziah?" I asked him, looking around the church.

Kuya pointed her out, and I saw her preparing the instruments for the church band. Watching her reminded me of how she and Kuya first started. Ate Keziah was a member of the church band, and Kuya would often sneak glances at her, too afraid to make a move.

Kuya noticed my pouty face and asked, "Problema mo?"

I sighed, "Hindi na ko favorite ni Mama"

Kuya chuckled and wrapped his arm around me. "Ayos lang 'yan, kahit ako hindi ka favorite eh"

I glared at him, pretending to be angry, but he just laughed and continued to tease me.

As the worship service began, the pastor's voice boomed through the speakers, capturing everyone's attention.

"Marriage is a beautiful thing, but it's not always easy. It takes work, commitment, and a willingness to put your partner first."

"A successful marriage is built on a foundation of love, trust, and respect," the pastor continued. "It's about being willing to listen to each other, to communicate effectively, and to work through the tough times together."

As I listened to the pastor's words, I felt a sense of conviction wash over me. I glanced over at Jarred, who was sitting beside me, his eyes fixed intently on the pastor. I couldn't help but think about our own marriage and how we had worked hard to build a strong foundation.

I knew that Jarred and I had only just begun our journey together, and that there would be ups and downs along the way. But I was committed to working through those tough times with him, to supporting him, forgiving him, and loving him unconditionally.

"The Bible says, 'Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.' (1 Corinthians 13:4) This is the kind of love that we should strive for in our marriages."

As the pastor read from 1 Corinthians 13:4, I felt a sense of determination rise up within me. I wanted to strive for that kind of love in our marriage, the kind that is patient, kind, and humble. I knew that it wouldn't be easy, but I was willing to put in the effort to make our marriage the best it could be.

"If we want to have a successful marriage, we need to be willing to put in the effort," the pastor said. "We need to be willing to forgive each other, to support each other, and to encourage each other."

"Marriage is a journey, not a destination," the pastor concluded. "It's a journey that requires commitment, patience, and love. But if we're willing to put in the work, the rewards are well worth it."

I reached out and took Jarred's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. He looked over at me and smiled, and I knew that he was thinking the same thing. We were in this together, and we were committed to making our marriage a success.

As the pastor finished speaking, I felt a sense of conviction wash over me. I knew that Jarred and I had worked hard to build a strong foundation in our marriage, but I also knew that there was always room for improvement.

"I'm so grateful for our marriage, Clyde," he whispered. "I promise to always support and love you, no matter what."

I smiled back, feeling my heart swell with emotion. "I promise the same, Jarred. I love you."

"I love you even more, Clyde," he replied, taking my hand in his.

The pastor's message seemed to be reinforcing everything that I already knew about our relationship. Jarred and I were a team, and together, we could overcome anything.

As we walked out of the church, hand in hand, I knew that our marriage was something special, and I was excited to see what the future held for us.

As we entered Ashley's condo, Kiraz's loud scream echoed through the room. "Clydeee!" she exclaimed, rushing over to me and wrapping her arms around my neck. "Kala ko hindi na kayo pupunta." she said, her voice filled with excitement.

I apologized for our tardiness, explaining that we had gone to the mall with our family to spend some quality time together. Ashley nodded understandingly, while Jarred and I took a seat on the sofa together. Kiraz and Clint sat down next to each other, leaving Ashley to sit alone.

Kiraz suddenly asked, "I thought dadalhin mo boyfriend mo ngayon?"

I looked at Ashley in confusion, asking, "May boyfriend kana?"

Ashley nodded, and I couldn't help but feel surprised. "Really? Why you didn't tell me?" I asked, feeling a bit left out.

Ashley explained that she hadn't wanted to disturb me, given how busy I had been with work and packing for our new home. I reassured her that she wasn't a disturbance, and that we should have met her boyfriend already.

"You are not, and dapat mong ipakilala sa 'min 'yan, kikilatisin natin." I said with a laugh, teasing Ashley about her new boyfriend.

"Don't worry, he's a good man," Ashley said, a warm smile spreading across her face. It was a sight to behold - the bitter Ashley, who had always sworn off love, had finally found someone special.

Jarred's curiosity got the better of him. "Where did you meet him?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with interest. I snuggled deeper into Jarred's side, feeling grateful for the love we shared.

Ashley's answer surprised me. "Bar," she said, a hint of a blush on her cheeks.

Clint's skepticism was palpable. "Sometimes, the guys you meet at a bar are jerks," he said, raising an eyebrow.

Kiraz playfully defended Ashley's new beau. "How do you know?" she asked, clinging to Clint's arm.

Jarred chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Dating gawain niya eh," he said, teasing Clint about his past exploits.

Kiraz joined in on the teasing, "Tama pala, dati ka nga palang gago."

Clint laughed, unfazed. "Dati, and at least I don't deny my past wrongdoings," he said, smiling wryly.

The banter was light-hearted, but I could sense a deeper meaning behind Clint's words. He had come a long way since his playboy days, and it was clear that he had grown as a person. I glanced at Ashley, wondering if her new boyfriend had a similar story to tell.

"He's here," Ashley announced, her eyes fixed on her phone. She quickly got up and headed to the door.

"Babe," we heard Ashley's excited voice, followed by the sound of the door opening.

We all turned to look at Ashley, who was standing beside a tall, handsome man with an innocent aura about him. He looked like he just stepped out of a K-drama.

"Hi, everyone," Luke introduced himself, his smile warm and friendly. "I am Danie Riel."

Kiraz was the first to greet him, her usual bubbly self. "Hi, I am Kiraz, frenemy ni Ashley," she said, extending her hand.

Luke smiled and took Kiraz's hand, chuckling at her joke. "Buti at pinatolan mo kaibigan ko," Kiraz added, teasing Ashley.

Ashley playfully fought back, "Gago ka talaga."

Ashley then introduced me, "Anyway, this is Clyde."

I smiled and extended my hand to Luke. "Clyde," I said.

Luke smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Danie."

He then turned to Ashley and said, "You didn't tell me that you have a beautiful friend." He glanced at me, and I somehow felt a little uncomfortable.

I didn't know how to react, but before I could respond, Ashley introduced Jarred, "And this is Clyde's husband, Jarred."

Luke let out an awkward chuckle when he noticed Jarred's tense expression. Jarred just nodded at Danie, his face emotionless.

"Jarred, Clyde's husband," Jarred said, his voice flat.

I looked at Jarred, raising an eyebrow.

Nagseselos.

Ashley then introduced Clint, "And that's Clint, Kiraz's boyfriend."

But Kiraz quickly corrected her, "Hindi ah, hindi ko jowa 'yan."

Ashley teased, "Eh, ano lang? Fubu?" Kiraz just rolled her eyes, laughing.

The atmosphere was a bit awkward, but we all tried to make small talk and get to know Danie better.

"Oww, pilot," Kiraz said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. It was just me and Kiraz who were asking Luke questions, while the boys were unusually quiet.

"It's kinda a fun job," Luke replied, smiling warmly. Ashley was clinging to his arm, gazing up at him adoringly.

"Ahh, baka naman, libreng flight," Kiraz joked, making us both laugh.

Ashley playfully rolled her eyes. "Gago, kapal din ng mukha mo eh no."

Kiraz teased, "Malamang, maraming layer ang skin plus foundation pa," making us chuckle.

Danie smiled good-naturedly. "Of course, just contact me if you want to learn more about flying."

As he said "just contact me," I could have sworn he glanced at me. I felt a shiver run down my spine, and I leaned closer to Jarred, seeking comfort. He instinctively kissed the tip of my head, and I felt a surge of love and gratitude towards him.

"He keeps glancing at you," Jarred whispered in my ear.

I nodded, feeling a bit uneasy. "You noticed it too?"

Jarred's eyes narrowed slightly. "Are you uncomfortable? Let's leave?"

I glanced at Ashley, and with one look, Jarred seemed to understand my answer.

"Excuse us, we need to leave," Jarred said, standing up and holding my hand.

Ashley looked up at us, surprised. "Hindi pa nga tayo nag sisimulang mag inoman."

Jarred smiled wryly. "My wife is not feeling well."

Ashley nodded understandingly. "Sus, babetime lang talaga kayo," Kiraz teased, making me raise an eyebrow at her.

Clint chimed in, "Take care while driving. 'Wag ta-tanga-tanga, Pare."

Jarred threw a pillow at him, and we made our way out.

As we were leaving, Danie suddenly said, "Take care."

I nodded at him, feeling a bit awkward. Jarred pulled me away, his hand tightening around mine.

"Bye guys, enjoy," I said, smiling at them before we left.

As we walked out the door, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. I was grateful to be leaving the awkwardness behind, and to be spending the rest of the evening with my loving husband.

As we cruised down the highway, I turned to Jarred and shared my thoughts. "I felt something off about Ashley's boyfriend," I said, my brow furrowed in concern.

Jarred's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze fixed on the road ahead. "Yeah, I feel that too," he agreed. "He kept glancing at you."

I noticed a hint of a pout on his face, and I couldn't resist teasing him. "Selos ka?" I asked, a playful smile spreading across my face.

Jarred shook his head, his expression turning serious. "No," he said. "It's just...he's making you uncomfortable."

My heart swelled with love and appreciation for Jarred's concern. I reached out and took his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I love you," I said, my voice filled with emotion.

Jarred's eyes met mine, and he smiled softly. "I love you too," he replied.

I leaned back in my seat, feeling grateful for Jarred's love and support. "Let's not talk about him, let's just support Ashley's happiness," I suggested.

Jarred nodded in agreement, his hand still clasped in mine. As he drove, he began to kiss the tip of my fingers, his touch sending shivers down my spine. I smiled, feeling happy and content in the knowledge that I had Jarred by my side.

I turned up the volume of the music. The sweet melody of "Aking Diwata" filled the car, and I couldn't help but sing along.

"Kapag nariyan ka, bumabagal ang ikot ng mundo," I sang, feeling the lyrics resonate deep within me.

Jarred joined in, "Ano man ang sabihin nila, hindi kita ipagkakaila. 'Pagkat ikaw lang ang minamahal ko, oh, aking diwata" his deep voice blending with mine in perfect harmony. We sang together, our voices entwining as we belted out the lyrics.

As we sang, I felt my heart swell with love for Jarred. He was my rock, my partner, and my best friend. I was grateful for the way he always made me feel safe and loved.

The music was like a balm to my soul, soothing away the discomfort of the evening. I felt my worries fade away, replaced by the joy and love that I shared with Jarred.

As we reached the chorus, Jarred turned to me and smiled. "Ikaw ang aking laging nais makapiling," he sang, his eyes locked on mine.

I felt a flutter in my chest as I sang back, "Hindi Maria Clara kundi Maria Makiling, Binibining napakaganda at wagas, walang wakas."

We continued singing, our voices entwining as we belted out the lyrics. The music was like a symphony of love, filling my heart and soul with joy and happiness.

As we drove through the night, the music and our love became one, a perfect harmony that filled my heart with joy and contentment. I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be - with Jarred, the love of my life.

As we stepped into our cozy home, Jarred and I both agreed that a relaxing movie night was just what we needed. I headed to the bathroom for a quick shower, feeling the warm water wash away the stresses of the day. After slipping into my comfortable pajamas, I made my way to the kitchen to prepare some delicious popcorn.

Meanwhile, Jarred was busy setting up the movie in the living room. I could hear the faint sound of the TV coming to life as I popped the kernels into the pot. The aroma of freshly popped popcorn filled the air, making my stomach growl with anticipation.

Once the popcorn was ready, I carried the bowl into the living room and settled in beside Jarred on the couch. He smiled at me, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for this quiet moment together.

Jarred and I decided to watched a classic Filipino movie, "Tanging Yaman".

As we snuggled into our plush sofa, I couldn't help but cling to Jarred, feeling grateful for the warmth and love that radiated from his presence. It was a habit we'd developed since getting married - we'd become more affectionate, always seeking physical contact with each other.

As the movie played on, Jarred turned to me with eyes that sparkled like stars. His voice was barely above a whisper, but it sent shivers down my spine.

"I can't wait to start our family together, my love," he said, his words trembling with excitement.he whispered, his voice trembling with excitement.

We shared our dreams, our hearts beating as one. I asked him, "How many children do you want?"

His gaze locked onto mine, filled with an adoration that made me feel like the most precious gem in the universe."It's up to you, my love," he replied, his smile a gentle breeze that soothed my soul.

"It's your body, not mine. You decide, and I'll be here to support you every step of the way."His words wrapped around my heart, filling me with gratitude. I felt like the luckiest person alive, blessed to have found a love that shone brighter than the brightest star.

I looked at Jarred, my eyes searching for reassurance. "Pa'no kung ayaw ko mag anak?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Jarred's expression was calm and understanding. "Then I'll respect that," he said, his voice filled with conviction.

He took my hand in his, his fingers intertwining with mine. "We married each other because of love and commitment, not because we want children," he explained. "Marriage is not just about having kids. You can be happily married without kids."

His words were like a balm to my soul, soothing my fears and doubts. I felt a sense of relief wash over me, knowing that Jarred would support me no matter what.

I asked Jarred again, "Gusto mo magka anak, pero ako ayaw ko. Ano gagawin mo?"

Jarred's expression was thoughtful, and he chose his words carefully. "But, I don't have the rights to force you to have a baby, even though I want to have one," he said.

I looked at him, feeling a sense of uncertainty. "But you are my husband, you have the right," I said, my voice laced with a hint of doubt.

Jarred's eyes locked onto mine, and he spoke with conviction. "Yes, I am your husband, but that doesn't mean I own your body. It's still yours. The only person who has the right to decide for your body is you."

His words struck a chord within me, and I felt a sense of gratitude towards him. He was right; my body was mine alone, and I had the right to make decisions about it. Jarred's respect for my autonomy and my body was something that I cherished deeply.

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I felt a surge of gratitude towards Jarred. His words wrapped around my heart, filling me with a sense of security and love. I knew that I was blessed to have found a partner like Jarred, who loved and respected me for who I was.

As we sat there, wrapped in each other's arms, I knew that our future together was bright, and that we would face every challenge that came our way, side by side.