Liliana’s Point of View
Jack and I had claimed the rooftop as our new lunch spot. We spread out our lunch boxes on the low parapet wall and let the breeze cut through the heat.
“Everything you make looks delicious—and you even packed dessert,” Jack said between bites. “Did you cook all of this yourself?”
I nodded, smiling. Sometimes Manang helped, but most days I handled it so she wouldn’t get too tired.
“Weee!”
I frowned and smacked the back of his head. He yelped, clutching the sore spot. “Ow! Why’d you do that?”
“That’s what you get for doubting me. You never believe anything unless you see it yourself.”
“Well, in all the years we’ve been friends I never actually watched you cook.”
“Because I only cooked for Gerald—never for anyone else. Your best friend didn’t like sharing.”
I stressed the words best friend. Jack’s brows knit.
“ Hey—who said she’s still my friend?”
“Isn’t she?”
“Uh… I punched her this morning.”
My eyes widened. “You really did? Tell me everything.” I l
