we're still here

A reader's tribute to and if I'm dead to you, why are you at the wake?

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We’re Still Here
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fragments

Imagined pages in Maraiah's and Kali's voices.

part I, before she came back. 2001 · from the story

a diary entry from the past

kali's notebook · Kali2001.F.11 of 3 in 2001

May 20, 2001

It’s day 47 of being in the past. Theodore left for work today. He’s gonna be away for a week. Your highness was reading a book in the living room, completely ignoring my existence.

in the fic Kali tries to keep a record of a day in 2001, then tears the page out. It is the torn note Maraiah later finds in her room, tapes back together, and confronts her with.

ch. 6, 14on the timeline →

from the fic · words by 216narcissus (tomatotomahtopotato)

part I, before she came back. 2001 · august

the morning after

letter, unfinished · Maraiah2001.M.13 of 3 in 2001

Kali,

I know you warned me that you might disappear. I just thought we’d have more time. Hindi pala.

You promised you would find me.

So I’ll wait.

Pero sana ginising mo man lang ako.

Sana—

imagined · not canon

part I, before she came back. 2002 · december

things i remember

notebook leaf · Maraiah2002.M.1

Things I remember about Kali.

  1. She was incredibly patient with Ej, even when he kept pulling her hair. I don’t know how she put up with it.

  2. She and Theo were always laughing about something, usually outside by the mango tree. Neither of them would tell me what was so funny. Annoying.

  3. She’d turn on the television and barely watch it. Sometimes she’d sit there for ages, looking at the screen without really paying attention.

  4. She never touched the bread with sesame seeds, so I stopped buying it. I still don’t buy it.

That’s all I can think of for now. I’ll add more when I remember.

imagined · not canon

part I, before she came back. 2003 · february

the house

unsent letter · Maraiah2003.M.1

Kali,

Theo gave me the house.

I offered to pay him, but he wouldn’t hear of it. We spent a good twenty minutes arguing about it, tapos ako pa ang tinawag niyang stubborn. Ako pa talaga?

I spent the afternoon looking around and making a list of what needs fixing. Ang ingay pa rin ng gate. Theo insists it only needs oil, so I told him edi sige he could come back and fix it himself.

I’m thinking of turning your old room into a study. It gets good light, and I could use somewhere to put all my books.

The kitchen needs some work too, although I haven’t decided what to do with it yet. I’ll probably start with the windows and figure out the rest later.

M.

imagined · not canon

part I, before she came back. c. 2004 · from the story

letters from switzerland

a letter from theodore · Theo2004.F.1

Dear Maraiah,

Natanggap ko na yung sulat mo. Pasensya na kung ngayon lang ako nakasagot. Medyo naging busy lang sa trabaho nitong mga nakaraang linggo.

Okay naman ako rito. Unti-unti na akong nasasanay, although hindi pa rin ako sanay sa lamig. Ang hirap bumangon sa umaga. Kung puwede lang dalhin yung init ng Pilipinas dito, ginawa ko na. Maayos naman sa trabaho. Busy lang, pero okay naman ang mga kasama ko.

Maganda talaga rito. Lalo na kapag maganda ang panahon at kita yung bundok. Ang hindi ko lang maintindihan, bakit ang hilig ng mga tao rito na tumingin sa akin. May dumi ba sa muka ko?

Ikaw, kumusta ka na? Kumusta ang bahay? Sana hindi ka masyadong nagpapagod sa trabaho.

Salamat pala sa pagsulat. Masaya akong makarinig ulit ng balita tungkol sa’yo. Sulat ka ulit kapag may oras.

Ingat palagi,

Theo

in the fic Theo writes from Switzerland about his occupation, the country and people looking at him; he and Maraiah become friends again.

ch. 26on the timeline →

fan-written · not canon

part I, before she came back. 2005 · november

postcard from switzerland

postcard · Maraiah2005.M.1

Kali,

You would absolutely love Celine.

She’s been making fun of me since I arrived. I’m beginning to question Theo’s taste in women.

The wedding was lovely, though. Theo looked very handsome, and Celine was beautiful.

I bought this postcard for Stacey, but somehow I’ve ended up writing to you instead.

Oh, well. I guess I’ll have to buy another one.

M.

imagined · not canon

part I, before she came back. 2007 · september

another dream

personal journal · Maraiah2007.M.1

I dreamt about Kali last night. She was opening every cupboard in the kitchen, looking for her favourite cup, and apparently I’d put everything in the wrong place. In my own kitchen, of all places.

I told her that if she had such a problem with it, she was welcome to organise everything herself. She called me impossible. I woke up laughing.

I’m almost certain we’ve had that argument before, or something like it. I wish I could remember what she actually said because I remember finding it very funny.

Anyway, the cups have always been in the cupboard beside the window. I still don’t know why she was looking everywhere else.

imagined · not canon

part I, before she came back. 2013 · may

switzerland

travel notebook · Maraiah2013.M.1

Switzerland is beautiful. I must have said that twenty times today.

I visited Theo and his family yesterday. Xander has apparently decided he’s going to marry me. I reminded him that I’m his Ninang, but he doesn’t seem to think that’s a problem.

Celine found the whole thing hilarious, of course, and Theo was absolutely no help.

The children are wonderful, although I don’t think I’ve had a moment of peace whenever they’re around.

I think I’ll stay a few more days. There’s still so much I haven’t seen.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2015 · june

the name

class list · Maraiah2015.M.11 of 2 in 2015

Grade 7 · Class List
School Year 2015–2016 · English

  7. XAVIER, Mikhaela Charlotte Mahakali

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2015 · from the story

teachers' day

mikha's imagined card · Mikha2015.F.12 of 2 in 2015

Dear Miss Maraiah,

Happy Teachers’ Day po!! ♡

Thank you po for teaching us! I know I’m not very good at literature yet, but I’m really trying my best! Hehe.

I hope you like the teddy bear po! My mommy helped me pick it out. She said it was really cute, so I hope you think so too! :)

Happy Teachers’ Day again po!

From,

Mikha ♡

in the fic Mikha gives Maraiah a Teachers' Day teddy bear and card.

ch. 3, 28on the timeline →

fan-written · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2017 · september

she is alive

private note · Maraiah2017.M.11 of 2 in 2017

She’s alive.

I’ve asked Stacey at least five times today. She’s going to be alright.

She’s alive.

Every time I close my eyes, I see the fire again.

I think I’ll try to get some sleep.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2017 · from the story

dear ms. barcellon

a letter left by her office window, with a bracelet · Mikha2017.F.12 of 2 in 2017

Dear Ms. Barcellon,

Hindi ko po alam kung bubuksan niyo ito o hindi dahil sigurado ako marami ang magpapadala ng regalo sa inyo. Pero magsusulat pa rin po ako.

Alam ko po na araw ng mga guro ngayon pero nagsusulat po ako para sa ibang bagay. I wanted to thank you for rescuing me. For saving my life.

You didn’t have to, but you did.

Colet told me everything po.

You’re a good person, Ms. Barcellon. I am a living proof of that. You granted me another chance in life and for that, I am eternally grateful for you. Whether you read this or not, whether you accept my gift or not, know that I am grateful.

Maraming salamat po!

Mikha

in the fic After Maraiah saves her life, Mikha leaves this letter and a bracelet by her office window.

ch. 29on the timeline →

from the fic · words by 216narcissus (tomatotomahtopotato)

part II, the years within reach. 2018 · from the story

last gift for her

mikha's imagined note in a gift box · Mikha2018.F.11 of 2 in 2018

Dear Ms Barcellon,

Hi po!

I know you told me not to give you gifts anymore. Sorry po, last na talaga ’to. Promise!

I just wanted to give you one more before the break.

Thank you po for everything, especially for what you did for me last year. I don’t think I’ve thanked you enough.

I hope you like it! Ingat po palagi. :)

Mikha ♡

in the fic On April 3, 2018 Mikha carries what she intends to be her last gift to Maraiah.

ch. 5on the timeline →

fan-written · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2018 · early writing years

for the girl who left

abandoned dedication · Maraiah2018.M.12 of 2 in 2018

For Kali. No. Too personal.

For the person worth waiting for. Good grief. Absolutely not.

For K.

Perhaps that will do. It’s only one letter. I doubt anyone would think much of it.

Or maybe I’ll leave the dedication page blank.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2019 · july

two books

back of a book-signing schedule · Maraiah2019.M.1

Mikha came by today. She asked me to sign two books for Denise’s birthday.

I signed both.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2021 · may

final_final_v3

email draft · Maraiah2021.M.1

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2024

about the dedication

email draft · Maraiah2024.M.1

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · summer, zug

an inconvenient sunday

private journal · Maraiah2025.M.11 of 17 in 2025

Spent most of the afternoon reading in the library. It’s ridiculous that I have an entire room for books and still manage to leave them scattered across the dining table.

The stove stopped working. I tried turning it on several more times, as though that would somehow convince it to cooperate. So much for the groceries I bought this morning. Bread and cheese for dinner, I guess.

Theo called earlier to invite me over this weekend. Celine supposedly has a list of things she wants to tell me, although he wouldn’t say what about. I asked if I should be worried, and he just laughed. Very reassuring.

I’ll probably go on Sunday.

Must remember to call someone about the stove tomorrow.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · switzerland

twenty-four years

notes app · Kali2025.K.12 of 17 in 2025

24 years.

Grabe. I still can’t wrap my head around it.

Ang dami kong gustong itanong kay Maraiah. I almost asked over breakfast, pero hindi ko alam kung saan magsisimula.

Tsaka I don’t want to make her cry again.

Maybe we don’t have to talk about everything right away. We have time naman.

I think I’ll make her breakfast tomorrow.

Eggs and toast. Kaya ko naman ’yon.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · switzerland

new contact

phone contact cards · Kali2025.K.23 of 17 in 2025

Notes

Notes

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · switzerland, early weeks

the balcony light

text messages · Kali2025.K.34 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal?

Yes, darling?

your side of the bed’s cold :(

Couldn’t sleep. Im out on the balcony

i know love i can see the light

are the stars nice tonight?

Maganda. Mas maganda kung kasama kita.

smooth, love hahaha

Is that a yes?

yes baby, coming na

Bring your cardigan. Malamig.

okay mahal ❤️

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · returning home from switzerland

landed

text messages · Kali2025.K.45 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

Home yet?

just got in

my room feels so quiet without you

And no one to complain when you take up the whole bed.

admit it baby you miss sleeping next to me

Very much. Though I don’t miss fighting you for the blanket.

HAHAHA mahal 😭

Have you eaten?

about to. you?

Yes. Already in bed.

feels weird saying goodnight over text

Then call me, sweetheart.

okay ❤️ calling now

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · after coming home

plans for next year

page from a work notebook · Maraiah2025.M.26 of 17 in 2025

Things to do:

  • Answer school emails
  • Call Jhoanna
  • Unpack

Mikha called last night just as I was getting ready for bed. I thought she was calling to say goodnight, but instead she told me to look out the window.

And there she was, standing outside.

I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy to answer the door.

I’ve already started thinking about going back to Switzerland next year. Perhaps we could spend a few weeks in Zug. There are so many places I’d like to take her.

I haven’t even finished unpacking from this trip, and I’m already planning another one.

One thing at a time, Maraiah.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · first weeks after switzerland

madam president

text messages · Kali2025.K.57 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

excuse me madam president

don’t start, darling.

do you have an appointment available

For what purpose?

very important personal matter po

I’m listening.

i need to kiss my girlfriend

My meeting ends at 4. Punta ka rito, sweetheart.

wait seryoso??? HAHAHA

Did you think I was joking?

4 pm sharp ❤️

Don’t be late.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · months two to three

after a long day

text messages · Kali2025.K.68 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

How was the hospital?

exhausting

Want to talk about it?

not really

Okay, love.

can i come over later?

Oo naman. I’ll make dinner.

i don’t have to talk right

Not unless you want to. We can just eat and watch something.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · months two to three

colet knows

text messages · Kali2025.K.79 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

mikhs

saan ka

bahay

kanino

bakit

HAHAHAHAHAHA

okay enjoy

ANO BA

wala naman akong sinabi 😭

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · months two to three

just checking

text messages · Kali2025.K.810 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal

Hmm?

wala lang hahaha

Everything okay?

yeah. just wanted to text you

Well, hello, baby

busy ka?

A little. Just finishing something.

okay work ka muna

I’ll call you when I’m done, okay?

okay baby ❤️

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025

friday night

text messages · Kali2025.K.911 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

Are you free on Friday evening?

depends

on what?

who’s asking

your girlfriend, apparently

OH she wants to take me out???

I was hoping we could have dinner together.

ask me properly baby

Mikhaela Xavier, would you like to have dinner with me on Friday?

yes dr barcellon i’d love to

Don’t call me that.

HAHAHA

I’ll pick you up at 7.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025

dinner with mahal

calendar appointment · Kali2025.K.1012 of 17 in 2025

Dinner with Mahal 👭🏽

Friday
7:00 PM

CalendarKali

Delete Event

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025

fries

a voice message · Kali2025.K.1113 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

0:08Mahal, I'm almost there, please open the gate. Also, bumili ako ng fries. Bilisan mo, kinakain ko na.

Coming, darling. Save me some.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025

don't stress

text messages · Kali2025.K.1214 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

what time should i pick you up tomorrow?

11 should be fine.

Do you think the blue dress is too much?

baby, it’s just lunch with my parents

I know. I want to make a good impression.

and they’ve known you for years na

Not as your girlfriend, darling.

okay fair point

but don’t stress too much okay?

I’m trying. I just want them to be okay with us.

they will, baby. promise 🤍

I hope so.

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · december

the decision

unsent letter · Maraiah2025.M.315 of 17 in 2025

Kali,

I don’t know how to explain this to you. I keep thinking about what your mother said. I’ve known your parents for years, and I never imagined they would see me that way. I understand their concerns, but that doesn’t make it hurt any less.

I saw you outside again today. I wanted to come down, darling, but I didn’t know what to say to you. I still don’t.

I know you’ve made your choice, and I have no right to make it for you. But I can’t bear the thought of you losing your family because of me.

Please don’t think I’ve stopped loving you. I haven’t, and I don’t think I ever could.

I promised you I wouldn’t leave again, and I meant it. I wish I knew what to do, Kali. But I am also just very, very tired.

I’m sorry.

Maraiah

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · december, first night

did you get home?

text messages · Kali2025.K.1316 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

love, are you home na?

i’m sorry about tonight

you didn’t deserve any of that

please just tell me you got home safely

you don’t have to explain anything right now

just one word, mahal. please

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part II, the years within reach. 2025 · december, first week

university gates

text messages · Kali2025.K.1417 of 17 in 2025

iMessage
Today 11:42

so this is how we’re doing it?

security told me i couldn’t come in

mahal please naman!

i’m sorry. i’m just really angry right now

i know you don’t want me fighting with my family

but you’re hurting me too

can we please talk without anyone else deciding for us

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2026

leave me alone

text messages · Kali2026.K.1

iMessage
Today 11:42

mikha nasa baba kami ni maloi

dinalhan ka namin ng pagkain

pls just leave it

pwede mo ba kaming papasukin?

i don’t want to see anyone

ilang araw ka nang hindi sumasagot samin

then stop calling

mikha nag-aalala na kami sayo

you don’t understand

alam ko. pero gusto lang namin malaman kung okay ka

i’m just here

okay. dito lang muna kami sa baba

imagined · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2028

the photography exhibition

travel notebook · Maraiah2028.M.1

Visited a museum today. Wonderful collection, terrible café. I paid far too much for coffee I couldn’t finish.

The photography exhibition was particularly good. Spent almost an hour there and ended up having a nice chat with the attendant about the prints.

Outside, a woman was crouching beside the museum trying to get the right angle for a photograph.

Kali used to do that.

I found a lovely bookshop afterwards. Bought three books despite having two unfinished ones in my suitcase.

It was a good day.

imagined · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2030 · june

room 401

page torn from a studio notebook · Kali2030.K.1

Maraiah,

I finally went.

Took me an entire year. Ang dami kong excuses, ’no? Work, traffic, kung anu-ano pa.

Your portrait is huge. Grabe. I knew you were president of SCI, pero iba pa rin pala seeing you up there.

Ang ganda mo, mahal.

I stayed until morning. Hindi ko na namalayan yung oras. I just kept looking at you.

Happy birthday, mahal.

Ang dami kong gustong ikwento sa’yo. Hindi ko alam kung saan magsisimula.

I miss you.

Kali

imagined · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2032

after the shoot

unsent voice-message transcript · Kali2032.K.1

for mahal

Hi, mahal.

Short laugh.

Okay, this is weird. Hindi ko rin alam bakit ko ’to ginagawa.

Anyway, we wrapped late today. May client kami na gusto raw candid shots, tapos nung pinakita ko sa kanya, nagreklamo kasi hindi siya nakatingin sa camera. Like, ano ba talaga? HAHAHA. Tawang-tawa si Colet when I told her.

The studio’s doing really well, by the way. Fully booked kami these past few weeks. Nakakapagod, pero masaya naman.

Got home, fed the cats, made myself dinner. Actual food, ha. May vegetables pa.

Pause.

Today was a good day. A really good one, actually.

I don’t know, I guess I just wanted to tell you.

Long pause.

Okay. Ang awkward na nito.

I miss you, love.

imagined · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2035 · from the story

what she wanted remembered

maraiah's lifebook excerpt · Maraiah2035.F.1

I began teaching when I was nineteen. I was determined to be taken seriously, and according to Stacey, I succeeded a little too well.

I spent many wonderful years in education before eventually becoming an author. Five novels later, I decided I had written enough.

I was fortunate to have good people around me. Theo has been a dear friend for most of my life, and his family has always made me feel welcome in Switzerland. Stacey and Jhoanna have put up with me for longer than I care to admit. And there’s EJ, whom I’ve watched grow from a little boy into a fine young man.

There are many moments I’m particularly fond of. My graduations, the publication of my first novel, and the countries I’ve visited.

But if I could revisit one ordinary afternoon, I think I’d choose June 4, 2001.

It was my first day of teaching. Stacey had given me a bottle of wine because she thought I looked like I needed it, and I’d stopped at a bookshop on my way home.

I spent the rest of the afternoon reading in the living room. I don’t remember much of what we read, but I remember enjoying myself very much.

It was a lovely afternoon.

in the fic Harry interviews Maraiah for a lifebook in England in 2035; she chooses June 4, 2001 when asked which ordinary afternoon she'd relive.

ch. 43on the timeline →

fan-written · not canon

part III, the lives they kept living. 2036 · september

one last visit

folded letter in Kali's pocket · Kali2036.K.1

Maraiah,

I’m here again.

You’d think I’d be used to seeing your portrait by now. Pero every time I come here, I still end up staring at you for hours.

Someone really needs to clean the frame, by the way. It’s getting dusty. I almost asked the guard if I could do it myself.

I used to imagine what I’d say if I ever saw you again. Ang dami kong gustong itanong noon. Why you left, why you never answered my calls, why you wouldn’t even let me say goodbye properly.

I still have questions, but I’m not as angry as I used to be. I think I’d rather hear about where you’ve been. I have so many stories to tell you, too.

I don’t know if I’ll come back next year. But I hope you’re always happy, mahal. Wherever you are.

I really do.

Kali

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2036 · september

the first night back

pocket notebook · Maraiah2036.M.11 of 3 in 2036

Kali fell asleep halfway through telling me something about the cats.

I couldn’t sleep, so I came out to write. I’ve already gone back into the bedroom twice to check on her. She’s still there, of course, sound asleep. I don’t know why I keep checking.

She told me earlier that she takes her coffee black now, which wasn’t the case before. I wonder how many other little things have changed.

I suppose I’ll find out over breakfast tomorrow.

God, I’ve missed her.

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2036 · september

updated contacts

phone contact cards · Kali2036.K.22 of 3 in 2036

Notes

Notes

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2036

busy madam president

text messages · Kali2036.K.33 of 3 in 2036

iMessage
Today 11:42

baby, lunch?

Board meeting until two, darling.

late lunch then?

I have another meeting at three.

grabe. do i need to book an appointment with my own girlfriend

You have a standing appointment.

oh?

Dinner. Every evening, if ayos lang sa’yo.

that’s a lifetime commitment, ma’am

That’s what I’m hoping for, mahal.

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2037 · may

birthday shoot

messages · Kali2037.K.11 of 9 in 2037

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal

MAHAL

i have an idea for your birthday

I’m listening

birthday shoot at the studio??

You already have hundreds of photos of me darling

and i want more hahaha

plus we need new sample prints

Ah. So this is for work?

nooo, i just want pretty pictures of my girlfriend

At anong ibabayad mo sa akin?

anything you want

anything, darling?

hahaha sige mahal name your price

I’ll tell you when you get home.

mahal HAHAHA so yes??

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2037

the office visit

text messages · Kali2037.K.22 of 9 in 2037

iMessage
Today 11:42

i’m near by SCI

can i steal five mins?

Come upstairs, darling.

are you alone?

Yes. Why?

nothing :)

Kali.

just wanna kiss my girlfriend

Close the door when you come in.

oh

okay ma’am 😌

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037 · after colet's birthday

the quiet drive home

notes app · Maraiah2037.M.13 of 9 in 2037

ugh

I hate being jealous. It’s embarrassing, especially at my age.

I think it was the hand. We were holding hands when Ruby practically threw herself at Kali. It caught her off guard, I know that. She even tried holding my hand again, but by then I was already upset.

I spent most of the party avoiding her. Even Maloi noticed, so apparently I wasn’t being as discreet as I thought.

Of course Kali has friends I don’t know. She’s lived an entire life while I was away, and I wanted that for her.

Hindi naman niya kasalanan na wala ako noon.

We’re on our way home now. I told her to focus on driving, and apparently she’s taken me at my word. She hasn’t said much since.

I don’t particularly like that either.

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037 · the next morning

the morning after ruby

two notes beside the coffee maker · Kali2037.K.34 of 9 in 2037

mahal,

morning report:

- still yours (obviously)

- slept exceptionally well

- requesting another kiss before coffee

love,

your shameless girlfriend

Sweetheart,

You are intolerable before breakfast.

Good thing I love you.

The coffee can wait. Come here.

— M

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. 2037 · three weeks before costa rica

the question

proposal draft · Maraiah2037.M.25 of 9 in 2037

Kali,

For a long time, I thought loving you meant learning how to live without you.

But these days, love looks a little different.

Coffee in the morning. Hot chocolate at night. Hearing you laugh from another room. Coming home and knowing you’ll be there.

I want more of that.

I want to keep having pandesal for breakfast with you when I’m eighty. I want to complain when you steal the blanket. I want to spend entire afternoons doing absolutely nothing with you.

May mga taon tayong hindi na maibabalik. Alam ko ’yon.

But whatever time we have left, I want to spend it with you.

I want to spend the rest of my life making it up to you.

Not because we have something to make up for.

Because I love you.

Because I’m happy.

Because after everything, you’re still the person I want to come home to.

Kali, will you marry me?

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037 · afternoon of the proposal

five more minutes

text messages · Kali2037.K.46 of 9 in 2037

iMessage
Today 11:42

Ready na?

five more mins pls. fixing my hair

Take your time. I’m downstairs.

sorry love 😭

No need to say sorry. I’m sure you look lovely.

u haven’t even seen me yet! haha

Do I need to?

hahaha you’re sweet today

Only today?

everyday baby. okay pababa na ☺️

Kali?

Mahal kita

mahal din kita love. why so sudden?

Wala lang, sweetheart. Just wanted to tell you.

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037 · shortly before the proposal

the last draft

notes app · Maraiah2037.M.37 of 9 in 2037

Proposal - FINAL

Forget the speech. I’ve rewritten it so many times that I forgot half of it already.

Kali’s still taking photos by the water. I should go over before she starts wondering what I’m doing.

I know what I want to tell her. I don’t need three pages to say it.

Mahal kita, Kali.

Dito lang ako. Gusto kitang makasama araw-araw.

Will you marry me?

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037 · before the wedding

vows, draft six

legal pad · Kali2037.K.58 of 9 in 2037

Mahal,

The first time I fell in love with you Nope. We’re not starting there. We’ll be here all night.

I’ve rewritten this six times now. I don’t know why I’m having such a hard time when I literally tell you I love you every day. Probably twenty times a day, actually.

But I want to get this right.

I promise to tell you when something’s bothering me instead of saying “okay lang” and making you guess.

I promise to listen when you need me to, even when we don’t agree.

I promise to wake up early for your pandesal. Kahit antok na antok pa ako.

And I promise to stop taking pictures of you while you’re eating.

Okay, sorry, baby. I can’t promise that one.

I know we have our own habits, and I’m sure we’ll still find things to argue about. You’ll probably keep telling me to put my camera away, and I’ll probably keep asking you for just one more picture.

But I love our life together, mahal. I love coming home to you, having dinner together, and sitting beside you while you read and I edit photos. Even when we’re not doing anything special, I’m happy just being there with you.

I just want to tell you how happy I am that we get to do this. That tomorrow, after everyone goes home, we’ll wake up together and I’ll probably ask you what you want for breakfast.

And the day after that, too.

God, mahal. I get to be your wife. Can you believe that?

Mahal na mahal kita, Maraiah.

Pipiliin kita araw-araw.

she's definitely going to cry. bring tissues. for both of us.

don't look at her when reading this or you're DONE.

imagined · not canon

part IV, coming home. c. 2037

her vows

vows on the back of the programme · Maraiah2037.M.49 of 9 in 2037

Kali,

You asked me three times this morning whether I was nervous. I told you I was fine, although I had already checked the ceremony programme about six times.

I’ve spent a considerable amount of time thinking about what I wanted to say today. You know me well enough to know I could probably talk for hours, but I’ll try to spare everyone.

I promise to be honest with you, even when the truth is difficult. I promise to listen to you and to remember that I don’t always know what’s best, despite what I might think.

I promise that when we disagree, I’ll stay and talk things through with you. I know I can be stubborn, darling, and I appreciate how patient you’ve been with me.

Most of all, I promise to enjoy our life together. I want us to keep travelling, trying new things, visiting our friends, and making plans for the future. And when we have nothing particularly exciting to do, I’d be just as happy spending an ordinary Thursday with you.

You’ve made me laugh more in the past year than I thought possible. You’ve also made me look forward to things I used to give very little thought to.

I’m happy, Kali. I love the life we have, and I love you very much.

I can’t wait to be your wife.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

dinner's ready

text messages · Maraiah2038.M.11 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

Darling, would you like to have dinner with me?

mahal are you asking me out

I am

omg where are we going 😌

dining room

Dinner’s ready, nagluto ako ng asado.

HAHAHA mahal

You’ve been editing all afternoon. Come eat.

sorry baby!! five mins

You said that twenty minutes ago.

okay okay coming!

pls tell the chef she’s the love of my life

She knows, sweetheart. She’s also considering eating without you.

noooo coming na love!!!

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

grocery shopping

notes app · Maraiah2038.M.22 of 14 in 2038

SHOPPING

  • Eggs
  • Onions
  • Chicken thighs
  • Rice
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Toothpaste
  • Cat food
  • Hot choc
  • Milk

Darling, we still have hot chocolate

paubos na love

Alright, get the big one then

okay. anything else?

Check if we need milk

we do. adding it

Last edited by Kali.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

on the fridge

post-it note, on the fridge · Maraiah2038.M.33 of 14 in 2038

Darling, please eat the food I left for you. Coffee is not breakfast.

— Maraiah

yes mommy

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · june 12

for the birthday girl

voice-message draft · Kali2038.K.14 of 14 in 2038

for mahal

Hi, mahal! Happy birthday, baby!

I’m still at the studio, but I wanted to send you something before I get home.

Miss Mikha?

Wait lang!

Pause.

Sorry, love. Anyway, I booked us dinner tonight, so don’t cook anything, okay?

And don’t ask me where. Surprise nga eh, hahaha.

I wish I could’ve spent the whole day with you. I’ll make it up to you tonight, promise.

I love you so much, baby. Happy birthday!

Pause.

Actually, you know what? I’ll just tell you all this when I get home.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

the very sexy top

text messages · Kali2038.K.25 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

sent you a picture 😇

Kali.

yes mahal?

You said you were showing me your new top.

that IS the top hahaha

Parang kulang sa tela, darling

ibabalik ko na ba?

Absolutely not.

oh? you like it?

Very much. I’d like to see it in person, though.

sige baby, tonight

I’ll be waiting, mahal.

you better be 😘

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

date night

text messages · Kali2038.K.36 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal why does our calendar say DATE NIGHT - BEDROOM 😂

Our reservation got cancelled.

so you booked our bedroom instead HAHAHA

I made other arrangements, darling.

oh??? 👀

Dinner at 7 🥰 I’m cooking.

should i dress up?

I’d love that. The maroon dress, perhaps?

yung favorite mo?

yes, that one

then you wear the blue one i like

sige, sweetheart.

see you at 7, gorgeous ❤️

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

working late

text messages · Maraiah2038.M.47 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

Still at the studio, darling?

yes 😩 client changed the brief last minute

Have you eaten?

not yet love. almost done though

pinagluto kita ng dinner

mahal you don’t have to wait up

I’m reading, sweetheart

It’s a rather difficult book.

hahaha sure baby

i’ll be home soon. love you ❤️

I love you too. Drive carefully.

Iniwan kong bukas yung ilaw sa harap.

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038

our playlist

collaborative playlist · Kali2038.K.48 of 14 in 2038

  1. The Night We MetLord Huron
  2. A Thousand YearsChristina Perri
  3. Come Away With MeNorah Jones
  4. Ikaw at AkoJohnoy Danao
  5. At LastEtta James
  6. Araw-ArawBen&Ben
  7. You’re Still the OneShania Twain
  8. Bawat DaanEbe Dancel
  9. Can’t Help Falling in LoveElvis Presley
  10. HomeEdward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

when i'm gaming

kali's private notes app · Kali2038.K.59 of 14 in 2038

things maraiah does when she thinks i’m too busy gaming to notice:

  1. pretends she came in to look for a book
  2. stands behind me trying to figure out what’s happening on screen
  3. asks what the little map in the corner is for
  4. brings me water without asking
  5. says she’s leaving but stays another five minutes

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · married life

save your game

messages · Kali2038.K.610 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

How long until you can take a break?

why 👀

a simple question, darling

8 minutes

i miss you.

mahal are you flirting with me while i’m gaming

I’m literally just in the next room

Then come here.

omg okay wait 😳

Take your time. I’ll be in bed, waiting.

COLET I’M LOGGING OFF

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · a weekday afternoon

the voice note you should not play aloud

a voice message and texts · Kali2038.K.711 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

0:13"Darling, I'm done for the day. Come upstairs when you're free. I've missed you, and I'd like to have my wife to myself for a while. Love you."

BABY 😭

i’m on a call with colet hahahaha

Oh? did she hear?

just the first two seconds THANK GOD

Then we’re fine, love

mahal why are you so calm

Should I be nervous about inviting my own wife upstairs?

HAHAHA you’re impossible

Are you coming?

logging off now. five mins 😘

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · slow afternoon

calendar invite

a shared calendar entry and texts · Kali2038.K.812 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal what’s this on our calendar

An afternoon with you, if you’re free.

baby did you just book an appointment with me 😭

You said you missed having me to yourself.

i did actually hahaha

Then let’s do nothing. Read, nap, whatever we like.

does kissing count as doing nothing

I’d be disappointed if it didn’t.

HAHAHA okay accepting immediately 😛

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · family life

night duty

private journal · Maraiah2038.M.513 of 14 in 2038

Emma woke at two, then again at three.

Kali tried getting up the second time, but she has a shoot at eight, so I sent her back to bed. She protested, of course.

I tried singing the song Mama used to sing to me. I couldn’t remember all the words, so I hummed the rest. Emma didn’t seem to mind.

She’s asleep now, holding on to my shirt. I should put her down, but she’s so warm and comfortable.

I think I’ll stay like this a little longer.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2038 · family life

three missed calls

text messages · Kali2038.K.914 of 14 in 2038

iMessage
Today 11:42

BABY SORRY

just saw your calls. is emma okay??

She’s fine, darling.

what happened?

Nothing. Gusto lang niyang marinig ang boses mo.

oh 🥹

And so did I.

awww mahal

Tawag ka kapag free ka na.

calling now. miss my girls ❤️

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. 2039 · married life

the president's lunch break

text messages · Kali2039.K.11 of 2 in 2039

iMessage
Today 2:50

hi beautiful

Hello, darling

had lunch?

Hindi pa. Sunod-sunod ang meetings kanina.

love, it’s almost 3

alam ko

food. now please

Yes, ma’am.

hayy, don’t yes ma’am me

Ganyan din ba ang tono mo sa clients mo?

only the ones i really like

Swerte ko naman.

very. Eat na mahal

Kakain na, sweetheart.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2039 · married life

things that make her laugh

notes app · Kali2039.K.22 of 2 in 2039

Things that make Maraiah laugh

  1. Calling her Miss Barcellon when she’s lecturing me. Only works when she’s not actually mad.
  2. Watching me lose at video games. She pretends she’s not watching, but I can hear her laughing.
  3. Rajah choosing her lap instead of mine. She finds this VERY amusing.
  4. Emma imitating her serious face. Funniest thing ever. Need to stop laughing because it only encourages her.

Note to self: Get a nice candid of her laughing.

Or maybe just put the camera down next time.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2040 · married life

good morning, pretty girl

post-it note, on the bathroom mirror · Kali2040.K.11 of 2 in 2040

good morning beautiful girl. yes i’m talking to you. kiss me before you leave.

kali ♡

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2040 · married life

evening tea

text messages · Kali2040.K.22 of 2 in 2040

iMessage
Today 11:42

where are you?

Upstairs darling. Emma’s finally asleep.

making tea. want some?

Yes please. Come sit with me?

aww you miss me?

Of course I do, darling

i’ll be there in a bit

What are you doing down there?

cleaning up the kitchen 😭

bukas na lang yan mahal.

okay okay. coming na ❤️

Don’t forget my tea

hahaha ok love you too mahal

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2041 · family life

the film club

text messages · Maraiah2041.M.11 of 2 in 2041

iMessage
Today 11:42

Emma wants to watch Frozen again.

love we literally watched that yesterday 😭

Sabi ko nga sa kanya

diba we agreed on something else tonight?

hindi naman daw siya pumayag

hahaha did you say yes already

She’s already in her Elsa dress, darling

of course she is 😂

She’s saved you a seat beside her

awww my baby

okay getting popcorn on my way home

can you please get the caramel flavored one mahal?

thank you 🤍

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2041 · emma, approximately 4

mommy, mama and I

crayon drawing · Emma2041.E.12 of 2 in 2041

MOMMYMEMAMANOT AN EGGCAT

Dear Mommy and Mama,

Look! It’s our house.

I’m the little one. Mommy is holding my hand. Mama has the camera.

Rajah is sleeping under the table.

Emma

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2042 · family life

three things

text messages · Maraiah2042.M.11 of 4 in 2042

iMessage
Today 11:42

Three things, darling.

oh no what did i forget HAHAHA

One: Your coffee’s still on the kitchen table.

i knew i forgot something!

Two: Emma made you a drawing. I’ve put it beside your mug.

awww can you send me a pic?

Of course

Three: I love you.

mahal 🥹

i love you too ❤️

give emma a kiss for me!

I will, sweetheart. Come home safely.

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2042 · family life

random tuesday

text messages · Kali2042.K.12 of 4 in 2042

iMessage
Today 11:42

bakit may picture ng dirty dishes?

hahaha hindi! look at the table

your book, my camera, drawing ni emma

pati yung coffee mugs natin

looks lovely, mahal

random tuesday lang

that sounds nice.

kahit ang daming hugasin? hahaha

yes, and those can wait. halika muna dito.

coming mahal ❤️

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2042 · family life

emma has questions

text messages · Kali2042.K.23 of 4 in 2042

iMessage
Today 11:42

love, bean just asked how we met

Oh? Anong sinabi mo?

sabi ko we met a long time ago

tapos she asked if we were friends first haha

Anong sabi mo?

syempre oo

told her we were apart for a long time before we found each other again

And what did she say?

she asked “did you miss mommy?”

sabi ko “very much, baby”

tapos “okay” balik na sa toys niya hahahha

Well, she got her answer.

meanwhile ako naiiyak dito sa kitchen

Oh, sweetheart. Papunta na ako diyan

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2042 · emma, approximately 5

mommy's birthday

handmade birthday card, crayon · Emma2042.E.14 of 4 in 2042

HAPPYBIRTHDAYMOMMY!!!MOMMYMEMAMAI LOVE YOU THIS MUCH

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!!! ❤️

I drew a princess. That’s YOU!

Mama is the other princess.

There is no prince because you already have Mama. And me!!!

I gave you TWO crowns because it’s your birthday today

I LOVE YOU MOMMY!

P.S. Can we have cake now?

Emma

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2043 · family life

an ordinary day

personal journal · Maraiah2043.M.1

Emma told us the same story three times over breakfast. By the third telling, she’d apparently rescued six cats from a tree. Kali laughed so hard she nearly spilled her coffee.

We went grocery shopping afterwards, then spent most of the afternoon at home. I read while Kali edited photographs beside me, although Emma interrupted us every fifteen minutes to ask what we were doing.

Dinner was late because Kali and Emma decided to make dessert together. I’m not sure how they managed to use so many dishes, but Emma seemed very pleased with the result.

She asked for two bedtime stories and somehow ended up getting three.

I’ve just come upstairs, and I can hear Kali downstairs looking for her camera strap. It’s been lying across my book all afternoon.

It was a good day. I hope tomorrow is much the same.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. 2044 · family life

mother's day

text messages · Kali2044.K.11 of 2 in 2044

iMessage
Today 11:42

Nasaan na kayo?

shopping. secret mission

I see

emma says don’t ask questions

okay, hindi ako magtatanong.

you’re being suspiciously cooperative

well I’ve been informed by a seven-year-old that I’m not allowed to know.

hahaha she’s very strict

Kanino kaya nagmana?

YOU

Naturally! haha

hahaha

love you mommy

Love you too, darling. Ingat kayo.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2044 · emma, approximately 7

my favourite place

school assignment · Emma2044.E.12 of 2 in 2044

My Favourite Place

Where do you feel happiest? Draw it in the box. Then write about it on the lines.

Our sofa.

I like it when it rains and we all sit together. Mommy makes hot chocolate. Mama takes pictures of me even when I have crumbs on my face.

I sit in the middle so nobody can get up.

My favourite place is our sofa because we all fit.

What a lovely answer, Emma!

THANK YOU. It is a big sofa.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. 2045 · family life

school pickup

text messages · Kali2045.K.11 of 3 in 2045

iMessage
Today 11:42

hi can you please get emma today? shoot’s running late

Of course I can

thank you!! love you mommy ❤️

Love you too, sweetheart.

Ingat ka

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. 2045 · married life

after a difficult day

text messages · Kali2045.K.22 of 3 in 2045

iMessage
Today 11:42

how was work mahal?

Nakakapagod

want to talk about it?

hindi muna love.

okay. dinner’s ready whenever

Thank you, sweetheart.

bath’s ready too

i’m so spoiled mahal ah

of course, anything for my queen. 😘

Pwede bang yakap muna pag-uwi ko?

for as long as you want!

Thank you, mahal. Kailangan ko talaga today.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2045 · family life

a life on the calendar

shared calendar · Kali2045.K.33 of 3 in 2045

Monday 13 Today

3:30 PMEmma’s school activity

Tuesday 14

9:00 AMStudio shoot

Wednesday 15

6:00 PMGroceries

Thursday 16

7:00 PMDinner with the Barcellon’s

Friday 17

7:30 PMFamily movie night

Saturday 18

7:00 PMDate night ❤️

Repeating events

every fridayFamily movie night

every wednesday eveningGroceries

Shared with Maraiah

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2046 · married life

date night proposal

text messages · Kali2046.K.11 of 4 in 2046

iMessage
Today 11:42

mahal date night proposal ❤️

I’m listening, darling.

Japanese for dinner, tapos walk tayo sa park? maybe ice cream after??

What about Emma?

sleepover with Elizaboo. Auntie Stacey has got it covered na

wow prepared ka darling

of course hahaha

I want to take you out on a date eh

Didn’t we just go out last weekend?

bawal ulitin???

Not at all. I like having you all to myself.

good kasi you’re stuck with me tonight ❤️

Lucky me, then.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2046 · family life

window seat

messages · Kali2046.K.22 of 4 in 2046

iMessage
Today 11:42

gate changed again. i hate this airport

You and Emma okay?

yup. bean got the window seat. she’s rating airport food as we speak

6/10 daw

Tough critic. I miss my girls.

miss you too mommy. we’ll send pics 😊

Can’t wait. have a safe flight mahal.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. c. 2046 · emma, approximately 9

the broken vase

apology note · Emma2046.E.13 of 4 in 2046

Mommy,

I’m sorry I broke your vase. I know you told me not to run in the house but I forgot because I was racing Mama to the kitchen.

Mama told me not to move because there was glass everywhere. I didn’t get hurt so don’t worry.

Can we put the flowers in my pink cup? I don’t use it that much anymore.

I’ll help wash the dishes this week but maybe not Wednesday because I have homework.

Please don’t be mad anymore. I didn’t mean to break it.

I love you Mommy.

Emma

P.S. Mama didn’t tell me to run. I just wanted to beat her.

imagined · not canon

part V, growing into routine. 2046 · married life

ten years

text messages · Kali2046.K.34 of 4 in 2046

iMessage
Today 11:42

you coming home soon?

Paalis na ako, sweetheart.

okay. drive safe!

May kailangan pa ba tayo for tonight?

nope. wine, dessert, everything’s ready

anything else?

just yourself, mahal

Ten years today darling.

i know. how has it been ten years already??

I was just thinking the same thing

i love you so much, mahal ko

my darling girl. Mahal na mahal din kita.

I’ll see you soon okay

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2047 · emma's childhood

emma made pancakes

post-it note, in the kitchen · Emma2047.E.1

TO MY FAMILY:

i made pancakes. please eat them before they get cold.

— emma

We're very proud of you, sweetheart.

BEAN THESE ARE AMAZING!!!

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2048 · family life

wedding anniversary

anniversary letter · Kali2048.K.1

Mahal,

Happy anniversary! ♡

I was going to give you this over breakfast, but Emma was asking a hundred questions and Rajah was trying to steal food off the table, so here we are. Hahaha.

You fell asleep on the couch again last night. I tried taking your book away and you woke up just to tell me you were still reading. Sure, darling. Whatever you say.

I know I tease you a lot, but I hope you know how much I love our life. Even on the days when the house is a mess, Emma has homework she forgot to tell us about, and neither of us knows what to make for dinner.

I love coming home to you. I love waking up next to you, hearing you laugh, and watching you and Emma argue over board games because neither of you knows how to lose gracefully. Don’t deny it, mahal. I’ve seen you both.

And I love that after all these years, you still let me take your pictures, even though you pretend to be annoyed every single time.

Thank you for loving me the way you do, my love. For taking care of us, for putting up with me, and for making even the most ordinary days something I look forward to.

I’d marry you again in a heartbeat. You know that, right?

Mahal na mahal kita. Happy anniversary!

Your Kali ♡

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2050 · emma, approximately 13

family group chat

messages · Kali2050.K.11 of 3 in 2050

iMessage
Today 11:42

renamed the gc btw

hahahaha family admin???

I like it, actually.

thank you mommy

wait where did the hearts go??

mama there were literally 10

we’re a loving family!!

10 is a bit much, darling

love you added some of them!!!

Two. I added two.

okay fine i'll change it

Emma changed the group name to “Xavier-Barcellon love club 💌”

awww that’s so cute bean!!!

Much better, sweetheart.

okay NOBODY TOUCH IT ANYMORE PLS

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2050 · emma, thirteen

photo approval

messages · Kali2050.K.22 of 3 in 2050

iMessage
Today 11:42

mama WHY did you post my ugly pic from the trip!!!

which one baby

THE ONE WHERE I'M SLEEPING 😭

oh. wala akong kinalaman dito.

mama naman!!

ang cute mo kaya bean

mommy help me naman please

sorry anak. I agree with mama, ang cute mo.

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2050 · emma, approximately 13

may pinagmanahan

messages · Kali2050.K.33 of 3 in 2050

iMessage
Today 11:42

MY LIT RESULTS ARE OUT

I GOT 96!!!!

THAT’S MY GIRL!!! ❤️

Well done sweetheart! I'm so proud of you!

mommy i used that outline you showed me

I'm glad it helped. You did all the hard work anak.

we’re celebrating tonight!!

ice cream pls???

Sige, after dinner.

can we get the big tub

yes!!!

we still have some sa freezer don't we?

mommy we only have vanilla

hahaha mahal I think she deserves more than that

alright, you two. what flavor?

COOKIE DOUGH

and matcha PLEASE!!!

we are on it! proud of you, bean ❤️

THANK YOU MAMAAA 🥹

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. 2051 · family life

growing up

pantry doorframe · Kali2051.K.1

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2052 · emma, approximately 15

teenage Emma

messages · Kali2052.K.11 of 3 in 2052

iMessage
Today 11:42

at the library with my friends btw

Alright, anak. What time are you coming home?

around 8

Please don't stay too late. Ang lakas ng ulan.

yes mommy dw

send pics bean

okay mama we're literally just studying

let her study, love

THANKS MOM

haha okay, study well anak! love you

text us when you're leaving sweetheart

yes yes love you both

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2052 · emma approximately 15

lunch is in the fridge

post-it note, on the fridge · Maraiah2052.M.12 of 3 in 2052

Sweetheart, your lunch is in the fridge. Don’t forget your water bottle.

Love, Mom

And have a good day, bean!

— Mama

i'm literally 15

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2052 · emma approximately 15

the things that help

messages · Kali2052.K.23 of 3 in 2052

iMessage
Today 11:42

mama can we look at the photo albums with mommy tonight?

of course bean. but don’t you have a school project?

i can finish it this afternoon i promise

did mommy like the album last time?

she kept going back to our switzerland photos

did she remember them?

some of it. she liked hearing the stories too ❤️

can we show her the ones from your wedding?

of course, baby

i’ll get her favourite pandesal

she’ll like that. thank you bean

love you mama. see you later

love you too anak 🥰

Delivered

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2053 · married life

where things are

a note on the fridge · Kali2053.K.11 of 5 in 2053

Mahal,

glasses: on your head

tea: you already had some. i’ll make more if you want

keys: blue bowl by the door

Emma: at school, home by four

me: in the office. just six steps away ♡

— K

I know where my glasses are, darling

I like the notes. Keep writing them.

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2053 · married life

quiet afternoon with you

folded note · Maraiah2053.M.12 of 5 in 2053

My darling,

Could we spend an afternoon this week doing absolutely nothing useful?

No errands, no cooking. And no phones unless you ask very nicely.

I’d like to sit by the window, perhaps with some music on. Bring that book you’ve been trying to finish. I promise not to ask how far you’ve gotten.

We can order dinner this time.

I’d like a whole afternoon with you, mahal. That’s all.

M.

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2053 · married life

morning reminder

a note on the fridge · Kali2053.K.23 of 5 in 2053

Good morning, mahal

Your meds are in the kitchen counter.

Fresh pandesal in the bag. Your tea is next to it.

Nasa garden lang ako, nagdidilig ng plants.

Call me if you need anything, okay?

Kali ♡

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2053 · later years

thank you mahal

post-it note, on kali's side of the bed · Maraiah2053.M.24 of 5 in 2053

Darling

You’ve been taking such good care of me.

Thank you mahal.

I love you more than words can say.

— M

imagined · not canon

part VI, the long afternoon. c. 2053 · married life

if the day feels muddled

a small folded card in Maraiah's pocket · Kali2053.K.35 of 5 in 2053

Mahal,

You’re at home, my love.

If in case you don’t remember- I’m Kali, your wife. That’s us in the picture beside this note.

If you’re confused or can’t remember something, just ask me. Kahit ilang beses, okay lang.

If I’m not home, open Contacts on your phone and look for Darling. Press the call button. That’s me.

You can always call me.

Mahal na mahal kita.

- Your Kali

A photograph of the two of them, laid beside the note.

imagined · not canon