16

“James! What’s up, dude? It’s been a while, how’s life going?” napahinto ako sa iniinom ko. I saw Archie along with Silver—my college block mates, “Are you here alone ba, pare?” sinalubong ko naman ang kamay nya na nakikipag shake hands.

“Yeah, just buying some time, Silver,” I greeted him too, tumango naman ito, habang nakatingin pa rin sa cellphone niya, “How are you?” I reciprocated, kahit ayaw ko naman talaga na may kausap, just a small talk will do, siguro naman aalis na sila after.

“Doing fine, hey, James, I’ve heard some rumors,” humarap na lang ako sa iniinom ko, “I won’t believe it, lalo na kung hindi galing sayo,” his voice has hint of amusement and sarcasm.

“I actually don’t care, Arc, people tend to gossip, everytime,” rebat ko, tsaka inisang shot ang alak na hawak ko sa kamay, “Another serving,” tumalima naman ang bartender, para bigyan ako ng isang serving pa.

“I mean, is that true, that your third business, failed again? Why was that again? You failed to maintain the go