Falling For Mr, Playboy

I really can't understand what women are thinking. Why are they willing to be miserable just for the men they love? Why do they go to the extent of contemplating suicide when worthless men leave them? What positive impact do men bring to women's lives, aside from adding stress, headaches, and trouble? Why are they willing to destroy themselves?

It's not that I hate the male population, okay? I'm not angry. I'm just extremely irritated with people like them. That's the only emotion I feel for such useless individuals.

I'm furious at men, and I couldn't care less if they all disappeared from this world. I hope only women remain, and my life would be so much better. I'd see only women everywhere, and if that happens, I'd probably have so many girlfriends. Oh, just kidding. My heart is faithful. It has only loved one person since high school.

Don't get me wrong; I didn't become like this because of a love failure. I've never had a boyfriend, never will, and I have no plans. It's just repulsive. Disgusting. It gives me goosebumps and is simply nauseating.

Actually, what I've been through is worse than that, but let's not talk about it; it happened a long time ago. Besides, memories like that are worthless, much like men in this world, utterly useless.

So, I'm grateful to God that I was born a tomboy. Yes, I'm a tomboy. Do you have a problem with that?

How did I become a tomboy? It's simple. I got bored one day and thought, why not be a tomboy? That's how simple it is. Am I different when I get bored? Haha, just kidding. Anyway, I woke up one day feeling more attracted to women and disgusted by men.

I also prefer wearing men's clothes over girly outfits. It feels like when I used to wear women's clothes, I turned into a gay guy. Luckily, I woke up from that madness and stopped.

Isn't it scary to think I could have become gay with this handsome face of mine? Many girls would cry if that happened. I'm the type of tomboy who hates seeing girls cry.

Girls shouldn't be fooled and made to cry. They should be loved and treated like princesses. So, when I, MJ, love someone, you'll be ashamed of the time I'll give you. That's how fiercely I love, guys!

I may not be as handsome as your dad or as macho as your brother. Who knows, maybe I'm the secret lover and boyfriend of your mom, the ex-boyfriend of your sister. By the way, I'm MJ, the "That's my tomboy" of our place.

"MARY JOVELYN! ARE YOU AWAKE YET?"

Ugh, such a buzz kill. Shouting my full name like that.

I paused fixing my long hair when I heard brother John, the eldest of my twin brothers, shouting. I like him more than Brother Joseph.

Brother Joseph always annoys me, constantly giving me a headache. He's just a prankster. He can't take anything seriously. Unlike brother John, who acts and thinks his age. Brother Joseph isn't like that. Among us siblings, he's the odd one. He's 28 years old, but his mind is like a ten-year-old's.

But even so, I love both of them dearly. They're the only ones left for me. We don't have parents anymore. But it's okay. I'm happy with brother John and brother Joseph.

Even though I'm angry with men, they're not included. Every rule has an exception, right? They're my exception.

But I'd be happier if Donna and I become a couple.

"I'M AWAKE, BROTHER!" I shouted back. "JUST GETTING READY!"

"OKAY, HURRY UP. LET'S GO IN TOGETHER!"

I didn't reply to brothers comment because I was busy fixing my hair.

Every morning, my long hair is my problem. I don't know how to tie it to suit my handsome face. If not for the fact that it's a memento for Mom, I would have cut it a long time ago. But it's also a waste. And Donna says my hair looks beautiful. So, for her, I don't cut it.

"MARY JOVELYN?"

I rolled my eyes when I heard brother Joseph shouting. Goodness, he's annoying early in the morning.

"WHAT?"

"HURRY UP THERE!" he shouted. "NO MATTER HOW YOU FIX YOURSELF, YOU'LL NEVER BE A MAN, OKAY? JUST GO BACK TO BEING A GIRL, PLEASE?"

So, I just smiled at what brother John said. That's what I like about him; he's very supportive of what I want to do in life, as long as I don't neglect my studies.

"But... why..." Brother Joseph stammered, confused. He looked at me. "Are you really a tomboy now, bunso? Won't you change?"

"No, I won't," I said. "This is me. If you disown me, that's your problem. I don't care. I have brother John anyway. Hehehe. Love you, brother John."

Brother John just sighed at what I said.

"I won't disown you, bunso. My mind just can't accept that you're really a tomboy," brother Joseph said, laughing. "Give me time to accept it."

"Sure. How long?" I replied, then started eating rice.

"Uh, about ten seconds," he replied. "There, I've accepted that you're a tomboy. Will you join me later, bunso?"

"Where?"

"At the bar. We'll pick up girls. There are lots of chicks in the new bar in town. I was there last night." Brother raised his eyebrows as he spoke.

"Hey, Joseph. Shut up. You're saying all sorts of things to bunso. Now you want to involve her in your mischief. Should I report you to Rayne?"

"Come on, John. Be serious. I was just kidding. Do you want bunso to be in beast mode again? She'll side with you anyway."

"I'll side with you if you're doing the right thing."

"Oh, come on. That's how you are. That's why you still don't have a girlfriend until now." Brother John's expression changed when brother Joseph said that. "Oh, hehe. Just kidding, bro. Let's eat now."

I gave brother Joseph a glare for what he said. He's really abnormal, often not saying anything sensible. Considering the sensitive nature of that issue, he knows it's not a good comment to make.

Two years ago, brother John had a girlfriend. They've been together for a long time, even since college. Then the girlfriend proposed marriage, but brother John refused. He chose us, me and brother Joseph, over his girlfriend because he was the one supporting us at that time. So, his girlfriend got mad and broke up with him, saying he prioritizes us and has no time for her.

Since brother John and his girlfriend separated, he focused on work. He didn't have a girlfriend anymore. He told me that we, brother Joseph and I, are more important to him. He couldn't bear losing us too, especially since our mom passed away.

I really love brother Joseph for that. I strive to finish my studies because of his sacrifices.

After brother John finished eating, he stood up and went to his room to change. He's a professor at the school I attend, so we often go to school together.

Brother Joseph and I were left at the table.

"Your mouth really has no filter, brother Joseph!" I scolded him.

"Sorry," he scratched his head. "I didn't know John was still affected by what happened with Dianne."

"You're just dumb," I retorted.

"You too, bunso. You forget that I'm still your brother."

"Hehe. Just kidding, brother."

"But seriously, bunso. Are you really a tomboy?" he asked curiously. "Tsk. I hope not, bunso. You're so beautiful. It's a waste if you become a tomboy. Men should be crying over you now."

"But brother Joseph, have you had a girlfriend?" I quickly replied.

"None yet," I answered. "But it's close."

"Who? Do I know her?" he nodded. "Don't tell me it's Donna you like? Are you into your best friend, bunso? Haha."

"What's so funny?" I raised an eyebrow. "Yes, it's her. I'm in love with her."

"Wait, I can't imagine. Since when?"

"Since high school," I said. "But she doesn't know. I don't want to tell her. She might distance herself. It's complicated."

"That makes sense. But you're good at choosing, bunso. She's really beautiful."

"Of course. Am I not? I think I'm a Salazar because I'm good at choosing."

"Haha. Let's high-five on that!"

"You're really a tomboy, bunso," brother Joseph spoke again. "That's why I sometimes wonder why my briefs are missing. You're wearing them, aren't you? You should ask permission so I know."

"Ugh! You're disgusting, brother!" I shouted, making brother Joseph burst into laughter.

After brother Joseph and I finished eating, he washed the dishes since he didn't have a job. He got fired from his previous job because he was caught sleeping. He used to be a call center agent in a company. So now, he's just at home.

Brother John came out of his room already dressed in his professor uniform. He invited me, and we left our rented house.

While we were walking, brother suddenly mentioned Papa.

"Bunso, did you become a tomboy because of Papa?"

I scowled, "No. He has nothing to do with what I am now, brother. And why did you suddenly bring up that person? Can't we just forget about him, please?" I irritatedly replied while adjusting my baseball cap.

"Just wondering. What if he suddenly appears?"

"Why does she need to suddenly appear? There's no reason for her to show up, brother. She disappeared for ten years, and then she suddenly pops back in? She better not add to my anger towards her because my anger meter for her is almost at its peak."

Brother chuckled, "Haha. But I still can't believe you're really a tomboy, bunso. I thought you just liked wearing men's clothes. Maybe you turned out that way because there were no girls around us while you were growing up. You ended up adapting our style, me and Joseph."

"It's your style, brother. Not brother Joseph's style. If I adapted his style too, I might have grown up crazy, right?" we both laughed. "But, brother, thanks, huh?"

"Thanks for what?" he asked, puzzled.

"For everything. For the unwavering support for me and brother Joseph. For tirelessly putting me through school and accepting what I want in life. If it weren't for you, our lives would probably be a mess. You've been our mother and father from then until now."

We paused in our walk, and brother smiled.

"Haha. That's nothing, bunso. You know that since Mama and Papa were gone, I promised myself that, no matter what, the three of us will never be apart."

"Hehe. You're really handsome, brother." I teased. "Brother, that girl over there is so pretty." I pointed to the girl on the other side of the street. She's sexy. "Those are the type I like." Brother John just laughed.

"Haha. Damn, bunso. I didn't imagine you'd also have girls in mind. I thought you were one of those fan girls at school."

"Who, brother?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Ross Valentin, bunso. I thought you were one of his fan girls at school."

"Eww! Disgusting!" I shouted in response, full of disgust. "Out of all the guys, brother, him? Can I just commit suicide?"

"Haha. That's right, bunso. Not him."

"Definitely not, brother. Aside from us not losing, he's one of the reasons why I prefer girls." I retorted.

Ross Valentin, a fan girl of mine? No way! I'm more handsome than that grass.

At the university I attend, you're not considered a true student unless you know Ross Eliseo Valentin. He's the daily topic of conversation among the girls.

He surpasses even the celebrities when it comes to gossip among the girls at school. The way they treat Ross, you'd think he's a gift from heaven for all the ladies.

Not that handsome, though. Honestly, I'm more good-looking.

Who is Ross, and why is he so popular in school? Well, he's just a drug dealer. He's the one delivering drugs and other effects to the school.

He's also a baby maker. You can rent him to help make a child. Rumor has it he has three jellybeans down there, so there's a high chance of conceiving if you pick him.

He's also known for being an abortionist. Word has it he's terminated several unwanted pregnancies. Scary, right?

He's also a cellphone snatcher. He grabbed my phone the last time. That's how he is at school, so that's why he's talked about that way. He's a menace to society and this world.

But, of course, everything I said is just a joke. I just wish that his troubles were like that so he'd be out of school for a long time. He's taking away the girls I like. Tsk.

Ross Eliseo Valentin is one of the heartthrobs of the school. With his bad boy look, he's a playboy. He acts like he's a god just because many girls chase after him. Almost every week, different girls at school are rumored to be his girlfriend.

I don't understand why girls like him. It's clear he won't take them seriously, but they still pursue him. If only they pursued me instead, right? They wouldn't get their hearts broken. I don't make girls cry, you know.

I also don't get why they find him attractive. He looks like a bee when he wears glasses. Without glasses, he looks like a sea urchin. And he's so arrogant just because he has a car. As if he's the only one with a car in the world. Should I steal his car?

Maybe he's not kicked out of school because he's not doing anything wrong. He's just a womanizer. Plus, he's an ace player on the school's basketball team. And his dad is one of the school's major sponsors, so he has a strong connection up there.

Why am I mad at him? It's simple. I had a crush on someone last year. The one who won Ms. Della Rama University. She was beautiful. And sexy. I really had a crush on her. Then I found out she's Ross's girlfriend. But it didn't last. They broke up quickly. I think it was only two days.

Their forever only lasted for two days. Hahahaha!

Isn't that fast? My cellphone's unlimited text lasts longer than their relationship.

The girl even made a scene. Crying on campus, professing her love for Ross.

But the kicker is, Ross didn't care. He just walked past her while she was kneeling on campus. Before he passed by, Ross even said, "Don't kneel before me. I'm not God. I just look like a god because of my extreme handsomeness." And the whole crowd laughed.

The girl was embarrassed. Ross made a boom panes move. She became the laughing stock of the campus. After that, she disappeared from school. Rumor has it she transferred to another school to move on.

But that's not the real reason I despise that jerk Ross.

I got annoyed with him last year when I bumped into him in the school hallway. Because my uniform skirt was long, he called me a nun.

Me, a nun? Does he really see me as a nun with my handsome self? Is that twit making fun of me?

It would've been okay if he called me a priest. But a nun? Duh. Do I look like a girl to him? I'm more manly than him. I could beat him up in a fight, no doubt!

He really had the audacity. Jeez. Every time I remember that, my blood boils. I even tried several times to smash his car windshield just to get back at him.

But I couldn't do it. I might get caught. And worse, my brother might lose his job here at school. That jerk has a strong influence here.

I have no other choice for revenge. I just pray for Ross's soul above, hoping he gets taken early. If only I could meet someone skilled in witchcraft, I'd hex him. I'd have his manhood removed so he won't be able to enjoy himself.

So, to avoid that Ross, when I see him, I quickly turn away. I don't linger in one place if he's around. It ruins my day when I see that jerk Ross. He looks like a coast guard bull.

Tsk. Annoying. Why am I thinking about Ross today? It's because of my brother. Why did he think I'm a fangirl of that guy? I'm not gay, no. I like girls. Specifically, just Donna.

We just finished two subjects now, so we're not doing anything. While staring into space and waiting for Donna's reply to my text, Anton and Alex, my buddies, arrived.

They're also tomboys. But unlike me with long hair, they have short hair. Both have shaved heads. They look like twin monkeys. I'm the handsome one among the three of us.

"Hey, Mary Jovelyn, want to join us tonight?" Anton asked.

"Where to, Antonina?" I mentioned his real name, making him frown.

"Haha. Damn it. Anton's name is really ugly. Too girly." Alex commented.

"Wow! I'm embarrassed with your name, Maria Alexandra Jade Joaquin." Anton retorted with an annoyed look.

"Hey, what? My name is beautiful. Unlike yours. Maria Antonina Tatlong Reyna." Alex smirked. "Damn surname. Tatlong Reyna. Why not make it Apat na Reyna for more impact? Haha."

"Hey, tomboys! Can you please be quiet?" shouted our classmate from behind.

"Lol. Arthur, shut up. You look like a frog!" Alex responded, making the three of us burst into laughter.

"Wait, where are we going tonight?" I returned to our topic.

"To town, bro. To the new bar, Liwaliw. It just opened. Rumor has it there are many beautiful girls there. Let's check it out." Anton invited. "Let's flirt a bit."

"Oh no! The tomboys are going to flirt. Seriously? You guys sure about that? Your boobs are bigger than the girls there in the bar, seriously." Arthur replied.

"Quiet down, Arthur! You look like a frog!" Alex retorted, and we all laughed again.

"Wait, where are we going?" I asked again.

"I don't know, bro. I don't have money. I'm saving. Donna's birthday is coming up. I'll buy her a gift," I said with a smile. "I plan to confess my feelings and ask if I can court her on her birthday. Hopefully, she agrees."

"What if not?" Anton asked.

"Then, no. We'll just go back to being best friends. But I think there's hope. Sometimes, she tells me that if I were a guy, I'd make a great boyfriend," I replied.

"If you were a guy. Well, you're a tomboy. Plus, your boobs are even bigger than hers. It's awkward, dude," Anton said.

"I'm embarrassed for your boobs, Anton. Mine are three times bigger than yours," I teased. "Do you remember Jennifer? The one you met on Facebook? It could have been fine, right? She accepted that you're a tomboy. But it went downhill."

Anton suddenly frowned, "Hey! Shut up!" he snapped and walked out angrily.

I just laughed at his reaction. Seems like he can't forget that incident. I found it hilarious when I learned about what happened during their meeting. Jennifer apparently walked out when she saw that Anton had bigger boobs than her.

It's really awkward, isn't it? Being the "boyfriend" with bigger boobs than your girlfriend.

But I hope if I confess to Donna, she won't walk out. Our boobs are almost the same size, so she shouldn't be jealous. It's just that my body is sexier than hers.

Speaking of Donna, she already replied. She said I should come to her house later after school. She wants to introduce someone to me.

I wonder who that could be.

I replied, saying I'll come, and then I tucked my phone into my pocket as our next professor arrived. Theology is our next subject.

Before the class started, our professor gave a speech again. He insisted that God only created men and women. So, what about us lesbians? We'll just have to figure it out?

He claimed that heaven is only for men and women. Alright. Us tomboys, along with our gay friends in the rainbow, will just slide-slide there. It's more fun there.

He also mentioned that people who have same-sex attractions will burn in hell.

Well, what about those who judge others? They may still be alive, but their souls are already burning.

Whatever.

As long as I'm not doing anything wrong, being oppressed, or stepping on others, I'm happy with who I am. I don't need other people's approval for being me. They don't feed me anyway.

Our professor kept on with his speech, and Alex and Anton looked at each other at the same time. We all rolled our eyes simultaneously because we knew he was referring to us.

We got dismissed early because our last subject was canceled, so Anton, Alex, and I walked around the campus. While walking, we overheard the conversation of some girls we passed by. As usual, Ross was their topic.

"Ross is really popular, huh? His handsomeness is enviable," Anton commented.

I looked at him with a disgusted expression, "Yuck! Are you serious, Anton? Do you really find him handsome? Are you gay?"

"You're the gay one here. I'm a tomboy!" he retorted. "Yes, I find him handsome. But not too much. Just a bit. I get kilig sometimes too."

This time, Alex and I looked at him seriously.

"Oh, kidding. I don't get kilig." he said. "Hehe. Just kidding, guys. No gayness in our group. We're all tomboys. No gays. It's not allowed in our group."

"But, you know, guys, if I were a girl, I'd probably be one of those chasing after Ross. You see, he's so handsome. It's really captivating. Sometimes I think, what would it feel like to be Ross Eliseo Valentin's boyfriend?" Alex commented.

Both Anton and I looked at him in shock. Seriously. Are my tomboy friends really like this? Are they really getting attracted to Ross out of all the guys? Why him?

"You tomboys are disgusting," I told both of them. "Disgusting. Of all people, him? You get kilig for Ross? Gays!"

"You're too much, Mary Jovelyn." Alex replied.

"Just being real, dude." I said.

"What about you? If you ever become gay. Though, that's impossible since we're already tomboys. Let's just pretend we go back to being girly, who do you like?"

"Um," I thought because I really don't have a guy I like. "Daniel Padilla. Something like that level. Maybe he's the only one who can turn me back into a girl."

"Forever a tomboy, MJ." Alex said.

"She wants Daniel Padilla. MJ has wild illusions. I can't handle this." Anton added.

"You guys are monsters! Tomboys, all of you. You're into Ross, right? Gross!" I exclaimed.

"Well, later, you might end up with him." Alex jokingly said.

"Haha. Yeah! Maybe you're the destiny he's been waiting for." Anton added. "I'm sure Ross will enjoy your boobs. They're huge."

They even gave each other a high-five.

"If he enjoys my boobs, what more with your boobs, Anton? Has Ross already emptied them?" I said. "This tomboy is so ugly."

I was really disgusted with what they said. Me? End up with him? How dirty!

We went our separate ways when we reached the hallway. I passed by the faculty office to bid farewell to brother John and he reminded me to cook the pork in the fridge. After our conversation, I left.

When you exit the campus, you pass by the school's parking lot. There weren't many people around because it wasn't dismissal time yet. As I walked through the parking lot, I suddenly stopped when I saw two guys standing in front of an expensive-looking, yellow car.

They were holding baseball bats while looking at the car with a shattered windshield. It seemed like they were the ones who broke it.

"Hoy! You monsters! Why did you break that?" I shouted at the two idiots.

They looked at me, alarmed, and immediately ran away. One even dropped his baseball bat in his haste.

"Hey! Come back here, you scoundrels!" I yelled and looked around. "Help! I was assaulted-uh, they broke this car!!"

I quickly approached the baseball bat on the ground and picked it up. Those pests. Why would they break the car's window? This car looks fancy. Whose could it be? I feel sorry for the owner. They'd probably cry when they see their expensive yellow car. Tsk. Tsk.

While staring at the car, I suddenly heard a voice from behind me.

"Shit. What did you do to my car?" my whole body froze at the sound of that voice.

Nervously, I turned around, and when I saw the owner of the car, my nervousness doubled.

Damn it. Of all people, why him? Why does this jerk own it?

"Hey! I'm asking you! What did you do to my car? Why did you break it?" he angrily questioned.

He's so tall that I almost look small. Ross is sweaty, wearing only white basketball shorts and black Jordan basketball shoes. He doesn't mind the sweat dripping from his body. His eyes are intensely fixed on me.

"I'm asking you. Answer me!!" he shouted again.

"Oh, merciful abs!" I replied in surprise. "What's wrong with you? Why are you shouting? I don't know. I didn't break it. Don't accuse me, especially if you didn't see what happened. Bro said accusing is not allowed, you know!" I answered, even though I was getting nervous. "You stay there. I'm leaving. Goodbye. Adios. Sayonara."

I was about to walk away, but he suddenly grabbed my arm tightly. His grip was so strong that I felt like my bones would break.

"Ouch! It hurts, you know!" I complained.

"Where are you going? Do you think you can escape from me, huh? You'll pay for what you did to my car!" he angrily replied. He seemed to be restraining himself from hurting me.

"Your lineage is annoying. I really didn't break it!"

"Do you know how expensive my car is? It's the latest model! It costs millions! Can you even afford that?" he shouted in my face. "What you did will reach the school's admin. I will make sure you fix my car! Come with me!"

He forcefully pulled me while I felt lightheaded. I couldn't think straight. Suddenly, brother came to my mind-how hard he works here at the school, trying to earn money to send me to school.

Surely, even if I say I didn't break Ross's car, they would still side with him and believe him. They're rich, and we're poor. Also, if we can't fix that car, brother might lose his job. Ross has strong connections, right?

I felt like crying thinking about the possible outcomes. So, before Ross could take us away, I faced him and kicked him where it hurts. I kicked so hard that I felt like I broke his two jellybeans.

"Awww. Shit." he cursed in pain while holding onto his precious area. He even bent over. It was clear that he was seriously hurt.

"Sorry, bro. Nothing personal. Just business," I said as I ran away from him as fast as I could, leaving the school.

I just hope Ross didn't recognize me. I hope he didn't see my handsome face.

Otherwise, the number of handsome tomboys in the Philippines will surely decrease.

I don't know how I got home. I'm not even sure if I paid for the jeepney ride. All I know is I had this girl who was trying to act cute with me on the jeep earlier, but I ignored her. Handsome guys are sometimes ignored by girls.

I was nervous; I might accidentally throw her out of the jeep with all my anxiety. Her lips even got sore from smiling at me, so when I got off, she glared at me. That's how it goes when you're handsome; if you don't notice a girl trying to be cute, she gives you a mean look. But I'm not worried about that overly cute girl; I'm worried about Ross.

I'm concerned if he remembers my handsome face, my clothes, my bag, or if I made an impression on him. If he does remember, I'm in trouble at school tomorrow. Maybe even brother might lose his job. If he loses his job, how will I continue my studies? Brother Joseph doesn't have a job either. We can't rely on that abnormal guy right now.

It's not like I broke the windshield of his car; why am I being blamed? I only broke two of his jellybeans, so he shouldn't be mad. I pray that when he goes home, he suddenly gets into an accident. Not a serious one, just enough to give him amnesia and forget about me.

Or if not, on his way home, he gets harassed by a dozen gay guys. That way, his attention will be diverted, and he'll forget about me. That could work, right? It's better than him getting into an accident. Where can I find a dozen gay guys more macho than Ross?

Oh, Lord. What kind of misfortune did I step into? I don't know how to get through this. Why did it have to be Ross, of all people, Lord?

Is this a joke? You're quite the comedian, Lord. I can't handle your humor. I just end up crying about what happened earlier. It feels like something heavy is in my chest, and I can't breathe properly.

I entered the house and found brother Joseph lying on the chair, watching TV. I sat on the other chair and stared into space.

"Hey, little brother. What happened to you? You look like you aged there. Did you get enchanted?" he asked.

I shook my head, "No, brother. It's just Ross," I said, still teary-eyed.

"Huh? What about Ross?" he sat up, "What happened to you? Why are you crying?"

"Huhuhu. Brother Joseph..." I pleaded.

"Why, what happened? Did someone pickpocket you? Did someone steal your iPhone and Macbook Air?" he asked seriously, "Did your ATM card with 50,000 get stolen too?"

I looked at him, "Are you okay, brother? I don't have an iPhone and Macbook Air. I definitely don't have 50,000 because I don't even have an ATM card. It looks like it, right?"

"My face is handsome," he laughed, "But seriously. Why?"

I sniffled, "Brother, how much does it cost to fix a car windshield?"

"Why are you asking?" he replied and changed the TV channel.

"I was just asking," I said, "I'm thinking of fixing my car windshield."

"Are you serious about that? You don't even have a car."

"I'll buy one. Is that not allowed?"

"Come on! You don't even have money. You can't even pay back the 100 you owe me," he looked at me, "But why are you asking? I don't know how much it costs. It depends on the car's availability and model. The latest model is more expensive."

"Is that true? Are you just messing with me?" I nervously replied.

"No, really. I'm serious, little brother. That's how it is," brother Joseph said, "Why? What happened? Maybe you broke a car windshield? And they're asking you to pay? Uh-oh, little brother. You're in trouble with brother John! He hasn't even saved anything yet."

I got even more nervous after what brother Joseph said, so I vehemently denied it. I can't let him know what happened earlier because, for sure, even if Ross doesn't recognize me, brother will handle the situation. Brother John is that kind of good person. He doesn't allow any trouble.

But I can't let that happen. Because of my little stunt with Ross's jellybeans earlier, I'm sure he's extremely angry with me. Considering how he glared at me earlier? I'm sure he won't let this go without getting revenge.

It would be fine if he only gets back at me. But what if brother John and his job get involved with that monster? Where will we, siblings, end up?

"No, no!" I denied and stood up, "Why would I break a car windshield? Am I stupid? Don't compare me to you, brother Joseph!" I pouted, "By the way, brother John said you should cook rice. And also cook that pig in the fridge. It looks like he'll be late."

"Woah! Your brother acts like he's the boss, as if we're not the same age. Maybe he forgets we're twins, so we're the same age and birthday!"

"Well, brother Joseph, maybe you're also forgetting that when you had dengue last year, it was brother John who paid for your medical expenses. Do you also forget that every time you fix something at work, you ask money from brother John? On your anniversary with Ate Rayne last time, who did you borrow money from to buy a gift? Brother John. Did he complain to you?"

Brother quickly stood up, put on his slippers, and said, "Doesn't John have any orders? What should I cook with the pig? Adobo, or his favorite fried dish?" he said as he walked to the kitchen to start cooking.

I just laughed at what brother Joseph said. Even though they're twins, he has great respect for brother John. He knows about brother John's hardships and sacrifices when we were orphaned.

If not for brother John, we would probably be separated by now and sent to different relatives. I'm really thankful that my brothers, like brother John and yes, like brother Joseph too, became my older brothers. I couldn't ask for anything more.

So, I can't let brother John's position be jeopardized now. Considering how much he suffered for us, I can't add more to his concerns. I also know how much he loves his job, so I won't forgive myself if he gets fired from school.

I entered my room sadly and changed into comfortable clothes.

Before lying down on my bed, I took the picture of Mama. The picture taken 11 years ago. I was only 7 years old in this picture, while brother John and brother Joseph were 17. We all looked so handsome. We were so young and clueless about what would happen to our family.

"Where will I get a million, Mama?" I asked the picture with tears in my eyes. "What should I do, Mama?"

"Mama said you should do the laundry," I suddenly looked at the door and saw brother Joseph peeking in. "What are you dramatizing there, little brother? Just do the laundry."

"Okay, later!" I retorted.

"You're 'later-ing' that until next week. Count my briefs and boxers. You might use them. Ask for my permission first."

"Should I report you to Ate Rayne that you have a texting buddy?"

"Hehehe. Love you, little brother."

"I don't care about you. You know I hate liars, and now you're becoming one." I replied annoyed. "Go away, brother. I'm going to sleep."

Brother Joseph scratched his head and finally left my room.

I didn't realize I fell asleep while having my drama moment.

But before I slept, I still prayed that Ross gets harassed by gay guys on his way home. Just that. So he can forget what happened in his car.

I woke up at night when brother John entered my room. He invited me to eat, but I said I didn't feel well. He just bought me medicine from brother Joseph and let me rest.

The next day, brother John didn't let me go to school to rest.

I was in the living room, binge-watching Tokyo Ghoul while brother Joseph was getting ready. It seemed like he was going out, and he would meet Ate Rayne.

"Little brother, you take care of the house, okay?" he instructed. "If you go out, lock the house. I counted my briefs; there are 12 of them. If one is missing, you know what to do."

"You're so dirty! Just leave, brother!" I replied annoyed.

"Haha, just kidding." He laughed while combing his hair. "I'll buy you something. What do you want?"

"What are you buying?"

"Briefs. What brand do you want? What size? Haha!" He laughed again.

"Get lost!"

"Haha. The little brother is grumpy. But, are you really a tomboy, little brother?" he asked again. "Like a tomboy who likes other girls, is that you?"

"I rolled my eyes, 'No, brother. I'm a tomboy who happens to like guys.'

'Is that even a thing?'

'None. This is so dense. Seriously. Where's your brain? It all went to brother John!' I replied.

'But last question. Why did you become a tomboy? Is it because of Papa?'

I looked at him seriously, 'Because of deceitful people like you who can't stay faithful to the women they love. Now, if you have more questions, I'll just text Ate Rayne. I'll tell her you had a call mate last night, calling her baby.'

Brother was surprised and quickly approached, kissing me on the forehead, 'Bunso, I'm leaving. I'll go home too. I'll buy your favorite palitaw food in town.'

After that, he hurriedly left town. Seems scared of my threat to text Ate Rayne. Ha! His face. Acting up but afraid of getting caught. Tsk. Tsk.

I felt my phone vibrate, so I checked the text. I thought it was Donna replying, but it wasn't. It was just Anton, an ugly tomboy.

Anton: Why didn't you go to class, bro? The mighty three is incomplete now.

Me: It's fine. So you and Alex can experience being handsome. You two look ugly whenever you're beside me.

Anton: Wow, bro. Full of hot air, huh. But why, I guess? You have a visitor now, huh. Haha

Me: Even if death visits you, bro?

Anton: Just kidding, MJ. You're too much.

Me: Where's Alex?

Anton: Here. Beating up Arthur again. Inviting him for a date, haha.

Me: Let me change the topic, bro. Any news about Ross?

Anton: Damn, bro. Judgment day is near.

Me: Huh?

Anton: Damn, bro. It might be the end of the world. Why are you asking about Ross? Do you have a crush on him? Are you turning straight? We're tomboys, bro. Maybe you're forgetting, huh. We're tomboys.

Me: I'm a handsome tomboy. Both you and Alex are ugly tomboys.

Anton: Really? >:D

Me: What's the news about Ross? Is there chaos at school involving him? Like, did someone break his car windshield?

Anton: Uhmm..

Me: What uhmm? Ugly tomboy, what is it?

Anton: Wait. I'm asking. Are you excited, bro? You ask our classmates.

Me: Haha.

Anton: Nothing much, bro. The only issue is that Ross is still a player. Still the ace player of the team. Still chasing girls. Nothing serious happened. And..

Me: And?

Anton: And there's a girl who reportedly kicked his jellybeans, haha. Damn, bro. Hilarious.

Me: Does Ross remember who did it?

Anton: Well, I don't know, bro. I'm not close to Ross. Are you close?

Me: No. But, bro, I heard that you and death are getting close.

Anton: Oh, I like that >:D

Me: t(-_-t)

After that, the ugly tomboy Anton didn't reply. Seems like the next subject professor arrived.

But from what I found out, I don't know if I should breathe a sigh of relief or get more nervous.

The breaking of Ross's car windshield didn't become the talk of the town. But kicking his jellybeans became a trend. Damn. Goddess of tomboys, I hope he didn't recognize me.

My worries disappeared when my phone vibrated again. I thought it was Anton, the ugly tomboy again, but it wasn't. It was Donna, my love.

Donna: Bessy! You're unfair. You didn't come to my house yesterday. Amp!

Me: Sorry, bessy. When I got home, I fell asleep.

Donna: Later, you'll come, okay? I want to introduce someone to you.

Me: Who's that?

Donna: Just come. Otherwise, I'll be mad at you.

Me: Haha. Okay, I'll come in a bit.

Donna: Alright. See you.

Me: Okay. Love you, bessy.

Donna: Love you more. Mwa mwa.

"Damn! Kilig!" I shouted to myself because of Donna's response.

It's natural for us to say I love you, but for me, it has a different meaning. Of course, I love Donna more than friends.

But who could she be introducing to me?

I turned off the TV and went straight to my room to find something to wear. I need to look handsome when she sees me.

I left the house wearing a polo shirt, a white t-shirt underneath, denim jeans, rubber shoes, and a baseball cap to cover my long hair.

I look like Kuya John and Kuya Joseph when they were teenagers. You can't deny that we're a family of handsome guys.

I look very manly today, so I feel really handsome. I hope Donna notices that I like her not just as a best friend but as something more.

I've liked her for a long time.

And for sure, if she loves me, she won't cry. I'll be the luckiest tomboy if that happens.

I walked towards Donna's house. No need to ride since her house is nearby, just five mountains away. Just kidding. It's just five corners and five turns to the right. Luckily, I left the house in the afternoon, so the sun wasn't too hot.

I hadn't even reached in front of Donna's house when I immediately saw a black car parked. It looks expensive. The design is fancy. The owner seems rich. People passing by are staring at the car.

I know it's not Donna's family because her dad's car is white. I walked towards the front of the house, and I saw Tita Lorna-Donna's mom-leaving.

"Tita, where are you going?" I asked politely.

"Hey, you're Jovelyn, right? What's with that look? You're all dressed up like a guy again. Just here in town," she replied while opening their gate. "Come in. Donna's upstairs. She has a visitor." Tita giggled. It's like she's giddy.

"Who is it, Tita?" I asked, puzzled.

"The son of my former employer. The one I took care of before," she answered. "Anyway, you and Donna take care of things at home. I'll be back soon."

I just nodded and went upstairs to Donna's house.

Donna noticed me before I even reached the door, so she came to greet me. She had a juice in her hand.

"Finally, bessy, you came. I thought you were going to keep me waiting again," Donna pouted.

Ugh. Don't pout, Donna. I might just kiss you.

"I'm not a teasing person, bessy. I'm not leading you on. You're the one leading me on."

"Haha. You're really crazy. Come in. I'll introduce you to my visitor." she said with a smile. "But wait. Why are you dressed like that? It's so hot, bessy. You should have worn a dress and heels."

"Dress and heels? Am I gay?"

Donna laughed, "Haha. Crazy. Come on, go in." Donna walked ahead. "Eli, my bessy is here." she told her visitor.

Eli? So, her visitor is a girl? Oh no, it looks like she might be a tomboy.

I might have to show off my tough side today.

Well, I'm ready.

I just entered with my head held high, walking towards the living room of Donna's house.

I saw Donna's visitor. It's a guy, not a tomboy. Good. I haven't seen his face yet because he was bowing and busy with his phone. There were flowers beside him. Looks like five dozen red roses.

Tsk. He brought flowers. I should have picked those sampaguita flowers in front of the house and brought them for Donna. MJ, you always fail.

"Bessy, come in. Don't be shy with Eli," Donna laughed again. "Eli, meet my bessy. MJ. MJ, this is Eli. We've known each other since childhood. We just saw each other again yesterday."

I was focused on Donna's visitor when I suddenly widened my eyes and turned pale. Oh, dear Lord. Is it another joke time? Why. . . How. . . of all people?

Eli stood up, or should I say Ross Eliseo Valentin. He looked at me and smiled.

But that look was different. It seemed to say, 'I know you're a tomboy.'

Ross approached me. My whole body was sweating due to extreme nervousness.

"Hi. I'm Ross Valentin. And you are?" he said with a smile. He even extended his hand for a handshake.

"I'm... I'm MJ. . . MJ Salazar," I said weakly and shook his hand. I felt Ross's grip on my hand was too tight. "Ouch," I winced.

"Huh? What's your name again?" he slightly leaned his face closer.

"MJ," I replied shortly.

"Ah, MJ. What a cool name. I will never forget it," he smiled. "Just like I won't forget what you did to my car yesterday and kicking me."

I swallowed hard because of extreme nervousness. I felt like I might faint from fear.

"Hey, Eli. What are you and Bessy talking about?" Donna asked, amused.

"Nothing," Ross replied with a smile. He then put his arm around me tightly. "I was just asking where MJ got this shirt made. I want to have my car done like this too. The windshield got broken yesterday, you know."

Oh, Lord. He remembers.

Oh God. Seriously.

I hope a dozen gay guys gang up on Ross later.