The Girl in the Humble Home

The morning sun peeked through the worn curtains of Liah's small bedroom. At 16, Liah's life was simple, predictable. Her room, though small, was her sanctuary. The walls were adorned with posters of her favorite bands and hand-drawn sketches. A well-loved guitar leaned against the corner, its strings whispering silent melodies.

Downstairs, the aroma of Tita Ising's cooking wafted up, a comforting scent of garlic and spices. Liah's stomach rumbled, reminding her it was time to start the day. She quickly dressed in her usual attire – a simple cotton dress and worn-out sneakers.

As she entered the kitchen, Tita Ising greeted her warmly. "Good morning, anak (child)," she said, placing a plate of steaming rice and adobo in front of Liah. "Your Tito Ben is already out, fixing the tricycle."

Liah ate quietly, listening to Tita Ising hum, a familiar tune. "Tita, any news from Mama and Papa?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Tita Ising's smile faltered slightly. "They're busy with the business, Liah. But they send their love. They promise to visit soon."

Liah nodded, but a familiar pang of longing tugged at her heart. It had been years since she last remembered living with her parents. Her earliest memories were of Tita Ising's gentle care and Tito Ben's playful teasing. They were her family, her everything.

After breakfast, Liah helped with the chores before heading to the local school. As she walked, she couldn't help but wonder about her parents. What were they like? Did they ever think of her?

Past hours---

The school bell rang, signaling the end of another sweltering afternoon at San Rafael High. Liah hurried out of her classroom, eager to meet her friends under the old acacia tree in the courtyard.

"Liah, over here!" Ivy called out, waving her hand. Ivy, with her bright pink hair and bubbly personality, was always the most energetic of the group. Alma, ever the bookworm, sat quietly beside her, nose buried in a novel. Kaye, known for her artistic flair, sketched in her notebook as she waited.

"Hey, guys!" Liah said, catching her breath. "What's the plan for today?"

"I was thinking we could go to Aling Nena's for halo-halo," Ivy suggested, her eyes sparkling. Aling Nena's small eatery was a favorite hangout spot for the students, famous for its sweet and refreshing halo-halo.

"I can't," Alma said, shaking her head. "I promised to help my Lola (grandmother) with the laundry." Alma always put her family first, no matter what.

"And I need to finish this sketch for art class," Kaye added, holding up her notebook to show them a detailed drawing of the acacia tree. "But maybe we can all hang out tomorrow?"

Liah's face fell slightly. She had been looking forward to spending time with her friends. Lately, she had been feeling more and more isolated, especially with her parents still away.

"Hey, what's wrong, Liah?" Ivy asked, noticing her friend's expression.

Liah hesitated for a moment before confiding, "It's just... I miss my parents. Tita Ising says they're busy, but I wish they could visit, even just for a day."

Ivy put her arm around Liah's shoulder. "I know it's hard, Liah. But you have us, right? We're your family too."

Alma nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Liah. We're always here for you."

Kaye stopped sketching and gave Liah a reassuring smile. "And if you ever need a distraction, I can teach you how to draw. It always helps me clear my head."

Liah smiled, feeling a little better. "Thanks, guys. You're the best."

As they walked towards the school gate, Liah couldn't help but feel grateful for her friends. They might not be able to replace her parents, but they filled her life with laughter, support, and love.

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