The Similarities

Leo turned pale despite his effort to maintain a weak smile while listening to his son. Tears were long rolling down his face, brought about by his sense of pride and guilt. Ajie's question came as an unforeseen stab against his heart, making it ooze with accumulated, bloody elements of guilt.

"Tay, Nay, I'm sorry for asking this part of me. But I never question the way you cared for me. I owe you my life forever, from the beautiful memories of my childhood where I became the darling of our home to the day you send me to the city to work on my dreams."

This declaration prompted Leo and Issa to sob loudly and the atmosphere fell into a deep silence.

"Yet, the most painful statement that you said is when you told me that you are sending me to the city to let me build my future and my dreams. And when you also told me that you are always praying that someday, I may find my true self in my true family."