The examination room emptied slowly. OThe examination room emptied slowly. OThe examination room emptied slowly. One by one, the examinees stepped through the doors, carrying with them thene by one, the examinees stepped through the doors, carrying with them thene by one, the examinees stepped through the doors, carrying with them the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, thick reviewers, memorized provisions, and prayers whispered before everyweight of months or years of sleepless nights, thick reviewers, memorized provisions, and prayers whispered before everyweight of months or years of sleepless nights, thick reviewers, memorized provisions, and prayers whispered before every page. Among them was Ruth, thirty-two years old, with her straight hair and intimidating aura. She stepped outside thepage. Among them was Ruth, thirty-two years old, with her straight hair and intimidating aura. She stepped outside thepage. Among them was Ruth, thirty-two years old, with her straight hair and intimidating aura. She stepped outside the testing center, but stopped.testing center, but stopped.testing center, but stopped. Everything flashed in front of her eyes – her sacrifices and struggles just to have that one titleEverything flashed in front of her eyes – her sacrifices and struggles just to have that one titleEverything flashed in front of her eyes – her sacrifices and struggles just to have that one title beside her name – Atty. For the first time in months, there was nothing left to answer. Only the afternoon sun, painfullybeside her name – Atty. For the first time in months, there was nothing left to answer. Only the afternoon sun, painfullybeside her name – Atty. For the first time in months, there was nothing left to answer. Only the afternoon sun, painfully bright against her tired eyes.bright against her tired eyes.bright against her tired eyes. The examination room emptied slowly. One by one, the examinees stepped through the doors, carrying with them the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, thick reviewers, memorized provisions, and prayers whispered before every page. Among them was Ruth, thirty-two years old, with her straight hair and intimidating aura. She stepped outside the testing center, but stopped. Everything flashed in front of her eyes – her sacrifices and struggles just to have that one title beside her name – Atty. For the first time in months, there was nothing left to answer. Only the afternoon sun, painfully bright against her tired eyes. Ruth exhaled,Ruth exhaled,Ruth exhaled, “““FinallyFinallyFinally,,, it’sit’sit’s donedonedone………””” Her hands were trembling. Not from fear anymore but from exhaustion.Her hands were trembling. Not from fear anymore but from exhaustion.Her hands were trembling. Not from fear anymore but from exhaustion. And it makes her heart want to be home.And it makes her heart want to be home.And it makes her heart want to be home. Ruth exhaled, “Finally, it’s done…” Her hands were trembling. Not from fear anymore but from exhaustion. And it makes her heart want to be home.

Then, her phone vibrated. MOM - 5 MISSED CALLS Then a message appeared, “Ruth, Eigannel’s alone, come home quickly.”

It was already evening whenIt was already evening whenIt was already evening when Ruth arrived. The house wasRuth arrived. The house wasRuth arrived. The house was unusually quiet.unusually quiet.unusually quiet. She unlockedShe unlockedShe unlocked the door,the door,the door, “Eigannel?”“Eigannel?”“Eigannel?” Nothing.Nothing.Nothing. She placed her bag on the table.She placed her bag on the table.She placed her bag on the table. “Son?”“Son?”“Son?” Still nothing. SheStill nothing. SheStill nothing. She walked toward his room wherewalked toward his room wherewalked toward his room where the door was slightly open.the door was slightly open.the door was slightly open. Ruth pushed it gently.Ruth pushed it gently.Ruth pushed it gently. There he was. Her seven-yearThere he was. Her seven-yearThere he was. Her seven-year old son, Eigannel, curled upold son, Eigannel, curled upold son, Eigannel, curled up beneath his blanket, asleep.beneath his blanket, asleep.beneath his blanket, asleep. Alone.Alone.Alone. It was already evening when Ruth arrived. The house was unusually quiet. She unlocked the door, “Eigannel?” Nothing. She placed her bag on the table. “Son?” Still nothing. She walked toward his room where the door was slightly open. Ruth pushed it gently. There he was. Her seven-year old son, Eigannel, curled up beneath his blanket, asleep. Alone.

Ruth's eyes slowly filled with tears. She whispered,Ruth's eyes slowly filled with tears. She whispered,Ruth's eyes slowly filled with tears. She whispered, “Son…”“Son…”“Son…” Eigannel stirred,Eigannel stirred,Eigannel stirred, “Mama…?”“Mama…?”“Mama…?” She immediately walkedShe immediately walkedShe immediately walked toward him.toward him.toward him. “I'm here,” Ruth whispered. He opened his eyes halfway, ““I'm here,” Ruth whispered. He opened his eyes halfway, ““I'm here,” Ruth whispered. He opened his eyes halfway, “Done with exams, Mama?”Done with exams, Mama?”Done with exams, Mama?” Ruth smiled weakly, “Ruth smiled weakly, “Ruth smiled weakly, “Yes.”Yes.”Yes.” The child smiled, “The child smiled, “The child smiled, “So, you’re already my “Atty. Mama”?”So, you’re already my “Atty. Mama”?”So, you’re already my “Atty. Mama”?” She laughed softly, “She laughed softly, “She laughed softly, “Not yet, but I hope soon.”Not yet, but I hope soon.”Not yet, but I hope soon.” He nodded sleepily while Ruth sat beside him. The young boy reachedHe nodded sleepily while Ruth sat beside him. The young boy reachedHe nodded sleepily while Ruth sat beside him. The young boy reached for her hand.for her hand.for her hand. “““You’ll leave again tomorrow, Mama?”You’ll leave again tomorrow, Mama?”You’ll leave again tomorrow, Mama?” Ruth froze and confusedly asked, “Ruth froze and confusedly asked, “Ruth froze and confusedly asked, “WhyWhyWhy?”?”?” “““You always leave.”You always leave.”You always leave.” Silence.Silence.Silence. Ruth looked around the room. At the four corners. At the walls covered with nothing but shadows. At the chairRuth looked around the room. At the four corners. At the walls covered with nothing but shadows. At the chairRuth looked around the room. At the four corners. At the walls covered with nothing but shadows. At the chair where his uniform waited for another morning.where his uniform waited for another morning.where his uniform waited for another morning. Ruth's eyes slowly filled with tears. She whispered, “Son…” Eigannel stirred, “Mama…?” She immediately walked toward him. “I'm here,” Ruth whispered. He opened his eyes halfway, “Done with exams, Mama?” Ruth smiled weakly, “Yes.” The child smiled, “So, you’re already my “Atty. Mama”?” She laughed softly, “Not yet, but I hope soon.” He nodded sleepily while Ruth sat beside him. The young boy reached for her hand. “You’ll leave again tomorrow, Mama?” Ruth froze and confusedly asked, “Why?” “You always leave.” Silence. Ruth looked around the room. At the four corners. At the walls covered with nothing but shadows. At the chair where his uniform waited for another morning. “““Son…You’re always alone here.Son…You’re always alone here.Son…You’re always alone here. Didn’t you feel scared?”Didn’t you feel scared?”Didn’t you feel scared?” Eigannel nodded. He thought for aEigannel nodded. He thought for aEigannel nodded. He thought for a moment, then whispered, “moment, then whispered, “moment, then whispered, “The firstThe firstThe first time, I think.”time, I think.”time, I think.” Ruth's heart sank, “Ruth's heart sank, “Ruth's heart sank, “The first time?”The first time?”The first time?” He nodded.He nodded.He nodded. “““But I told myself…”But I told myself…”But I told myself…” He pulled theHe pulled theHe pulled the blanket closer, “blanket closer, “blanket closer, “That, Mama’s here.That, Mama’s here.That, Mama’s here.””” Ruth couldn't speak. She lowered herRuth couldn't speak. She lowered herRuth couldn't speak. She lowered her head. A tear fell onto her hand. Shehead. A tear fell onto her hand. Shehead. A tear fell onto her hand. She wiped her face quickly.wiped her face quickly.wiped her face quickly. “““Why are you sad, Mama?”Why are you sad, Mama?”Why are you sad, Mama?” Ruth forced a smile, “Ruth forced a smile, “Ruth forced a smile, “Because…Because…Because…” She” She” She looked at her son. The child she hadlooked at her son. The child she hadlooked at her son. The child she had left behind every morning to chase aleft behind every morning to chase aleft behind every morning to chase a future she hoped would make theirfuture she hoped would make theirfuture she hoped would make their lives better. “lives better. “lives better. “Mama is tired.”Mama is tired.”Mama is tired.” Eigannel reached up and touched herEigannel reached up and touched herEigannel reached up and touched her cheek, “cheek, “cheek, “Sleep and rest now, Mama.Sleep and rest now, Mama.Sleep and rest now, Mama. You deserve it.”You deserve it.”You deserve it.” “Son…You’re always alone here. Didn’t you feel scared?” Eigannel nodded. He thought for a moment, then whispered, “The first time, I think.” Ruth's heart sank, “The first time?” He nodded. “But I told myself…” He pulled the blanket closer, “That, Mama’s here.” Ruth couldn't speak. She lowered her head. A tear fell onto her hand. She wiped her face quickly. “Why are you sad, Mama?” Ruth forced a smile, “Because…” She looked at

Every morning, long before the sunlight to evenEvery morning, long before the sunlight to evenEvery morning, long before the sunlight to even touch your skin, Ruth is already awake. The quiettouch your skin, Ruth is already awake. The quiettouch your skin, Ruth is already awake. The quiet house slowly comes alive with the soft clatter ofhouse slowly comes alive with the soft clatter ofhouse slowly comes alive with the soft clatter of plates, the sizzle of the bacon and eggs on theplates, the sizzle of the bacon and eggs on theplates, the sizzle of the bacon and eggs on the pan, breads jumping off from the toaster, and thepan, breads jumping off from the toaster, and thepan, breads jumping off from the toaster, and the faint rustle of a school uniform being ironed andfaint rustle of a school uniform being ironed andfaint rustle of a school uniform being ironed and prepared. She carefully packs Eigannel’s lunchprepared. She carefully packs Eigannel’s lunchprepared. She carefully packs Eigannel’s lunch and making sure nothing is forgotten.and making sure nothing is forgotten.and making sure nothing is forgotten. For the past several months, there was alwaysFor the past several months, there was alwaysFor the past several months, there was always one thing she could never do–take her son toone thing she could never do–take her son toone thing she could never do–take her son to school because the Bar examinations hadschool because the Bar examinations hadschool because the Bar examinations had consumed her life. Even when she had enoughconsumed her life. Even when she had enoughconsumed her life. Even when she had enough time to bring Eigannel to school, she would rushtime to bring Eigannel to school, she would rushtime to bring Eigannel to school, she would rush him through the gates before immediatelyhim through the gates before immediatelyhim through the gates before immediately heading to the review center. She would kiss hisheading to the review center. She would kiss hisheading to the review center. She would kiss his forehead, watch him disappear through theforehead, watch him disappear through theforehead, watch him disappear through the school gate, and leave. Sometimes, Eigannelschool gate, and leave. Sometimes, Eigannelschool gate, and leave. Sometimes, Eigannel would wave at her.would wave at her.would wave at her. She felt bad. So, she always told herself the sameShe felt bad. So, she always told herself the sameShe felt bad. So, she always told herself the same thing:thing:thing: After the Bar.After the Bar.After the Bar. After the Bar,After the Bar,After the Bar, she would have time.she would have time.she would have time. After the Bar,After the Bar,After the Bar, she would take him to school.she would take him to school.she would take him to school. After the Bar,After the Bar,After the Bar, they would eat breakfast together.they would eat breakfast together.they would eat breakfast together. After the Bar,After the Bar,After the Bar, she would finally become theshe would finally become theshe would finally become the mother she had always wanted to be.mother she had always wanted to be.mother she had always wanted to be. Then the examination ended.Then the examination ended.Then the examination ended. For the first time in months, Ruth woke upFor the first time in months, Ruth woke upFor the first time in months, Ruth woke up without a reviewer beside her. No codal. No casewithout a reviewer beside her. No codal. No casewithout a reviewer beside her. No codal. No case digests. No flashcards. No practice questions.digests. No flashcards. No practice questions.digests. No flashcards. No practice questions. JustJustJust herherher sonsonson...... Every morning, long before the sunlight to even touch your skin, Ruth is already awake. The quiet house slowly comes alive with the soft clatter of plates, the sizzle of the bacon and eggs on the pan, breads jumping off from the toaster, and the faint rustle of a school uniform being ironed and prepared. She carefully packs Eigannel’s lunch and making sure nothing is forgotten. For the past several months, there was always one thing she could never do–take her son to school because the Bar examinations had consumed her life. Even when she had enough time to bring Eigannel to school, she would rush him through the gates before immediately heading to the review center. She would kiss his forehead, watch him disappear through the school gate, and leave. Sometimes, Eigannel would wave at her. She felt bad. So, she always told herself the same thing: After the Bar. After the Bar, she would have time. After the Bar, she would take him to school. After the Bar, they would eat breakfast together. After the Bar, she would finally become the mother she had always wanted to be. Then the examination ended. For the first time in months, Ruth woke up without a reviewer beside her. No codal. No case digests. No flashcards. No practice questions. Just her son..

"Eigannel," she called from the kitchen. "Ma?" "Do you want me to take you to school? Eigannel looked surprised, "You're not going to the review center?" Ruth smiled, "Not anymore, Eigannel." She crouched in front of him and fixed his collar, "Starting today, Mama will always be by your side." And for the first time in a long time, Ruth felt like she had finally gotten her life back. "Eigannel," she called from the kitchen. "Ma?" "Do you want me to take you to school? Eigannel looked surprised, "You're not going to the review center?" Ruth smiled, "Not anymore, Eigannel." She crouched in front of him and fixed his collar, "Starting today, Mama will always be by your side." And for the first time in a long time, Ruth felt like she had finally gotten her life back.

Ruth drove Eigannel to school.Ruth drove Eigannel to school.Ruth drove Eigannel to school. She didn'tShe didn'tShe didn't rush him. She didn't tell him to hurry.rush him. She didn't tell him to hurry.rush him. She didn't tell him to hurry. She didn't glance at the clock. She simplyShe didn't glance at the clock. She simplyShe didn't glance at the clock. She simply walked beside him. “walked beside him. “walked beside him. “Ma, you’ll pick meMa, you’ll pick meMa, you’ll pick me up later?’up later?’up later?’ Ruth smiled, “Ruth smiled, “Ruth smiled, “Of course.”Of course.”Of course.” EigannelEigannelEigannel smiled back, hugged her mother, andsmiled back, hugged her mother, andsmiled back, hugged her mother, and waved good bye.waved good bye.waved good bye. Instead of leaving immediately, RuthInstead of leaving immediately, RuthInstead of leaving immediately, Ruth walked to a small cafe near the school.walked to a small cafe near the school.walked to a small cafe near the school. She ordered coffee, opened her laptop,She ordered coffee, opened her laptop,She ordered coffee, opened her laptop, and waited. For the first time, she wasn'tand waited. For the first time, she wasn'tand waited. For the first time, she wasn't studying, she was simply waiting for herstudying, she was simply waiting for herstudying, she was simply waiting for her son.son.son. At two in the afternoon, RuthAt two in the afternoon, RuthAt two in the afternoon, Ruth immediately stood because Eigannel’simmediately stood because Eigannel’simmediately stood because Eigannel’s class was already done. She paid for herclass was already done. She paid for herclass was already done. She paid for her coffee and walked back toward thecoffee and walked back toward thecoffee and walked back toward the school.school.school. EEEigannel came running toward her,igannel came running toward her,igannel came running toward her, “Ma!”“Ma!”“Ma!” Ruth opened her arms and he huggedRuth opened her arms and he huggedRuth opened her arms and he hugged her.her.her. “I’m hungry,”“I’m hungry,”“I’m hungry,” Eigannel said whileEigannel said whileEigannel said while brushing his hands to his tummy. Hisbrushing his hands to his tummy. Hisbrushing his hands to his tummy. His mother laughed,mother laughed,mother laughed, “Then let's eat.”“Then let's eat.”“Then let's eat.” TheyTheyThey walked home together. And for Ruth, itwalked home together. And for Ruth, itwalked home together. And for Ruth, it was never an ordinary afternoon. It waswas never an ordinary afternoon. It waswas never an ordinary afternoon. It was the day that she's been anticipating forthe day that she's been anticipating forthe day that she's been anticipating for after taking the bar exams.after taking the bar exams.after taking the bar exams. After the Bar,After the Bar,After the Bar, and here they are.and here they are.and here they are. Ruth drove Eigannel to school. She didn't rush him. She didn't tell him to hurry. She didn't glance at the clock. She simply walked beside him. “Ma, you’ll pick me up later?’ Ruth smiled, “Of course.” Eigannel smiled back, hugged her mother, and waved good bye. Instead of leaving immediately, Ruth walked to a small cafe near the school. She ordered coffee, opened her laptop, and waited. For the first time, she wasn't studying, she was simply waiting for her son. At two in the afternoon, Ruth immediately stood because Eigannel’s class was already done. She paid for her coffee and walked back toward the school. Eigannel came running toward her, “Ma!” Ruth opened her arms and he hugged her. “I’m hungry,” Eigannel said while brushing his hands to his tummy. His mother laughed, “Then let's eat.” They walked home together. And for Ruth, it was never an ordinary afternoon. It was the day that she's been anticipating for after taking the bar exams. After the Bar, and here they are.

When they arrived home, Ruth prepared their dinner. Then she noticedWhen they arrived home, Ruth prepared their dinner. Then she noticedWhen they arrived home, Ruth prepared their dinner. Then she noticed something — a bruise on Eigannel's arm.something — a bruise on Eigannel's arm.something — a bruise on Eigannel's arm. Ruth pointed toward his arm.Ruth pointed toward his arm.Ruth pointed toward his arm. “What's that?”“What's that?”“What's that?” When they arrived home, Ruth prepared their dinner. Then she noticed something — a bruise on Eigannel's arm. Ruth pointed toward his arm. “What's that?”

He looked at the bruise, “Oh.” “What happened?” "I just bumped my arm to the teacher's desk a while ago, Mama. This is nothing to worry about.” Ruth walked closer, "Does it hurt?” “““NoNoNo,”,”,” Ruth examined it carefully, “Ruth examined it carefully, “Ruth examined it carefully, “Are you sure? I’ll ask your teacher about thisAre you sure? I’ll ask your teacher about thisAre you sure? I’ll ask your teacher about this””” Eigannel panicked and immediately nodded, “Eigannel panicked and immediately nodded, “Eigannel panicked and immediately nodded, “It’s an accident, promise,It’s an accident, promise,It’s an accident, promise,” He even raised her right” He even raised her right” He even raised her right hand to show his sincerity.hand to show his sincerity.hand to show his sincerity. “““Okay..Okay..Okay..””” She didn't ask again. She trusted her son, and she wanted to believe it was nothing.She didn't ask again. She trusted her son, and she wanted to believe it was nothing.She didn't ask again. She trusted her son, and she wanted to believe it was nothing. “No,” Ruth examined it carefully, “Are you sure? I’ll ask your teacher about this” Eigannel panicked and immediately nodded, “It’s an accident, promise,” He even raised her right hand to show his sincerity. “Okay..” She didn't ask again. She trusted her son, and she wanted to believe it was nothing.

The following days were normal. Ruth continued taking Eigannel to school. She waited for him at the cafe.The following days were normal. Ruth continued taking Eigannel to school. She waited for him at the cafe.The following days were normal. Ruth continued taking Eigannel to school. She waited for him at the cafe. She picked him up. They ate together. They talked. They laughed. No new bruises appeared. Eventually,She picked him up. They ate together. They talked. They laughed. No new bruises appeared. Eventually,She picked him up. They ate together. They talked. They laughed. No new bruises appeared. Eventually, Ruth stopped worrying. Perhaps it really was an accident. Perhaps she had simply been overprotective.Ruth stopped worrying. Perhaps it really was an accident. Perhaps she had simply been overprotective.Ruth stopped worrying. Perhaps it really was an accident. Perhaps she had simply been overprotective. Then, one morning, something changed. BThen, one morning, something changed. BThen, one morning, something changed. Before Ruth could pick up his son from school, the results of theefore Ruth could pick up his son from school, the results of theefore Ruth could pick up his son from school, the results of the Philippine Bar Examination were released.Philippine Bar Examination were released.Philippine Bar Examination were released. The following days were normal. Ruth continued taking Eigannel to school. She waited for him at the cafe. She picked him up. They ate together. They talked. They laughed. No new bruises appeared. Eventually, Ruth stopped worrying. Perhaps it really was an accident. Perhaps she had simply been overprotective. Then, one morning, something changed. Before Ruth could pick up his son from school, the results of the Philippine Bar Examination were released.Hundreds of people gathered around the posted list of successful examinees. Ruth stood amongHundreds of people gathered around the posted list of successful examinees. Ruth stood amongHundreds of people gathered around the posted list of successful examinees. Ruth stood among them.them.them. Her heart pounded. Her eyes moved from one name to another. She searched, and searched,Her heart pounded. Her eyes moved from one name to another. She searched, and searched,Her heart pounded. Her eyes moved from one name to another. She searched, and searched, and searched, until finally — she saw it.and searched, until finally — she saw it.and searched, until finally — she saw it. Hundreds of people gathered around the posted list of successful examinees. Ruth stood among them. Her heart pounded. Her eyes moved from one name to another. She searched, and searched, and searched, until finally — she saw it.

3114. OLAVE, RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA VILLANUEVA3114. OLAVE, RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA VILLANUEVAShe covered her mouth.She covered her mouth.She covered her mouth. She passedShe passedShe passed... After everything. After all those nights, and after every sacrifice. She was finally a lawyer.After everything. After all those nights, and after every sacrifice. She was finally a lawyer.After everything. After all those nights, and after every sacrifice. She was finally a lawyer. Tears filled her eyes. From carrying the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, RuthTears filled her eyes. From carrying the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, RuthTears filled her eyes. From carrying the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, Ruth now carries the ease and most important of all —now carries the ease and most important of all —now carries the ease and most important of all — that title.that title.that title. ATTY. RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA V. OLAVEATTY. RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA V. OLAVEATTY. RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA V. OLAVE She did it.She did it.She did it. She covered her mouth. She passed. After everything. After all those nights, and after every sacrifice. She was finally a lawyer. Tears filled her eyes. From carrying the weight of months or years of sleepless nights, Ruth now carries the ease and most important of all — that title. ATTY. RUTH MARIA ALESSANDRA V. OLAVE She did it.

Carrying the good news, Ruth calmly waits for her son's class dismissal, anticipatingCarrying the good news, Ruth calmly waits for her son's class dismissal, anticipatingCarrying the good news, Ruth calmly waits for her son's class dismissal, anticipating aboutaboutabout spending more time with him after school. But as the time passed — minutes became hours,spending more time with him after school. But as the time passed — minutes became hours,spending more time with him after school. But as the time passed — minutes became hours, and hours turned into midnight.and hours turned into midnight.and hours turned into midnight. She remembered seeing his classmates earlier, but he wasn'tShe remembered seeing his classmates earlier, but he wasn'tShe remembered seeing his classmates earlier, but he wasn't there with them. She asked some of his classmates if they've seen him, yet they onlythere with them. She asked some of his classmates if they've seen him, yet they onlythere with them. She asked some of his classmates if they've seen him, yet they only answered,answered,answered, “We saw him carrying some stuff that Ma'am asked him to move, and we actually tried to“We saw him carrying some stuff that Ma'am asked him to move, and we actually tried to“We saw him carrying some stuff that Ma'am asked him to move, and we actually tried to help him, but he insisted since Teacher Cyril specifically asked him to do it.”help him, but he insisted since Teacher Cyril specifically asked him to do it.”help him, but he insisted since Teacher Cyril specifically asked him to do it.” “Yes, then he assured us that we can go first and he will follow.“Yes, then he assured us that we can go first and he will follow.“Yes, then he assured us that we can go first and he will follow.””” Ruth got confused since her son has asthma and the teacher knows it, but she let theRuth got confused since her son has asthma and the teacher knows it, but she let theRuth got confused since her son has asthma and the teacher knows it, but she let the thought go and just waited.thought go and just waited.thought go and just waited. Carrying the good news, Ruth calmly waits for her son's class dismissal, anticipating about spending more time with him after school. But as the time passed — minutes became hours, and hours turned into midnight. She remembered seeing his classmates earlier, but he wasn't there with them. She asked some of his classmates if they've seen him, yet they only answered, “We saw him carrying some stuff that Ma'am asked him to move, and we actually tried to help him, but he insisted since Teacher Cyril specifically asked him to do it.” “Yes, then he assured us that we can go first and he will follow.” Ruth got confused since her son has asthma and the teacher knows it, but she let the thought go and just waited.

However, it came to the point where she watched every last student leave the campus. Yet, there's still no sign ofHowever, it came to the point where she watched every last student leave the campus. Yet, there's still no sign ofHowever, it came to the point where she watched every last student leave the campus. Yet, there's still no sign of his son anywhere. Worried, she finally decided to look for him inside the campus premises.his son anywhere. Worried, she finally decided to look for him inside the campus premises.his son anywhere. Worried, she finally decided to look for him inside the campus premises. She searchedShe searchedShe searched everywhere. The school library, cafeteria, student lounge, everywhere. But still, no sign of her son. She tries to calleverywhere. The school library, cafeteria, student lounge, everywhere. But still, no sign of her son. She tries to calleverywhere. The school library, cafeteria, student lounge, everywhere. But still, no sign of her son. She tries to call his cellphone while looking for him. It was ringing, but to no avail.his cellphone while looking for him. It was ringing, but to no avail.his cellphone while looking for him. It was ringing, but to no avail. Then she remembered what his classmate told her earlier. Eigannel was carrying some equipment, so where heThen she remembered what his classmate told her earlier. Eigannel was carrying some equipment, so where heThen she remembered what his classmate told her earlier. Eigannel was carrying some equipment, so where he put those was probably where his last whereabouts was. And on a campus, where do equipment usually go?put those was probably where his last whereabouts was. And on a campus, where do equipment usually go?put those was probably where his last whereabouts was. And on a campus, where do equipment usually go? At theAt theAt the storagestoragestorage roomroomroom... However, it came to the point where she watched every last student leave the campus. Yet, there's still no sign of his son anywhere. Worried, she finally decided to look for him inside the campus premises. She searched everywhere. The school library, cafeteria, student lounge, everywhere. But still, no sign of her son. She tries to call his cellphone while looking for him. It was ringing, but to no avail. Then she remembered what his classmate told her earlier. Eigannel was carrying some equipment, so where he put those was probably where his last whereabouts was. And on a campus, where do equipment usually go? At the storage room.

She frantically searched in a quiet hallway, trying to see in the dark what every room's sign was. AndShe frantically searched in a quiet hallway, trying to see in the dark what every room's sign was. AndShe frantically searched in a quiet hallway, trying to see in the dark what every room's sign was. And while desperately searching for the storage room, she heard a faint ring.while desperately searching for the storage room, she heard a faint ring.while desperately searching for the storage room, she heard a faint ring. Her senses became alert. SheHer senses became alert. SheHer senses became alert. She continued to call and followed the faint sound, until it led her to a room where a sign indicating “Storagecontinued to call and followed the faint sound, until it led her to a room where a sign indicating “Storagecontinued to call and followed the faint sound, until it led her to a room where a sign indicating “Storage room” was hung.room” was hung.room” was hung. Her heart was beating so loudly due to the nervousness that she felt.Her heart was beating so loudly due to the nervousness that she felt.Her heart was beating so loudly due to the nervousness that she felt. She frantically searched in a quiet hallway, trying to see in the dark what every room's sign was. And while desperately searching for the storage room, she heard a faint ring. Her senses became alert. She continued to call and followed the faint sound, until it led her to a room where a sign indicating “Storage room” was hung. Her heart was beating so loudly due to the nervousness that she felt.

Please, I hope I can find him alive. I can't lose my son, please.

Crying, she ignored the sign at the door and went in anyway. The door swung open only to reveal a crampedCrying, she ignored the sign at the door and went in anyway. The door swung open only to reveal a crampedCrying, she ignored the sign at the door and went in anyway. The door swung open only to reveal a cramped and dimly lit room where several pieces of equipment were scattered. The room is humid and dust circulatesand dimly lit room where several pieces of equipment were scattered. The room is humid and dust circulatesand dimly lit room where several pieces of equipment were scattered. The room is humid and dust circulates the room greater than air, and there, lying on the floor pinned beneath heavy boxes — lay her sonthe room greater than air, and there, lying on the floor pinned beneath heavy boxes — lay her sonthe room greater than air, and there, lying on the floor pinned beneath heavy boxes — lay her son unconsciously.unconsciously.unconsciously. She was speechless for a second, but immediately went to him after, grabbed the boxes on topShe was speechless for a second, but immediately went to him after, grabbed the boxes on topShe was speechless for a second, but immediately went to him after, grabbed the boxes on top of him, and tried to wake him up.of him, and tried to wake him up.of him, and tried to wake him up. No response.No response.No response. Crying, she ignored the sign at the door and went in anyway. The door swung open only to reveal a cramped and dimly lit room where several pieces of equipment were scattered. The room is humid and dust circulates the room greater than air, and there, lying on the floor pinned beneath heavy boxes — lay her son unconsciously. She was speechless for a second, but immediately went to him after, grabbed the boxes on top of him, and tried to wake him up. No response.

As she cries, she holds him close for an embrace and begs him to wake up,As she cries, she holds him close for an embrace and begs him to wake up,As she cries, she holds him close for an embrace and begs him to wake up, then she realizes that the only warmth left in the room was hers only.then she realizes that the only warmth left in the room was hers only.then she realizes that the only warmth left in the room was hers only. SheSheShe reached for her son's hand, holding it tight, until she felt it go completelyreached for her son's hand, holding it tight, until she felt it go completelyreached for her son's hand, holding it tight, until she felt it go completely still.still.still. As she cries, she holds him close for an embrace and begs him to wake up, then she realizes that the only warmth left in the room was hers only. She reached for her son's hand, holding it tight, until she felt it go completely still.

And in that tiny room located in the middle of the quiet hallways, sheAnd in that tiny room located in the middle of the quiet hallways, sheAnd in that tiny room located in the middle of the quiet hallways, she watched her son's life completely go quiet.watched her son's life completely go quiet.watched her son's life completely go quiet. And in that tiny room located in the middle of the quiet hallways, she watched her son's life completely go quiet.

Ruth didn't know how she would function normally the next day.Ruth didn't know how she would function normally the next day.Ruth didn't know how she would function normally the next day. After she found her son dead, she broke down and mourned for her child, but immediately actedAfter she found her son dead, she broke down and mourned for her child, but immediately actedAfter she found her son dead, she broke down and mourned for her child, but immediately acted and decided to make the person involved pay for what they did to her child as well.and decided to make the person involved pay for what they did to her child as well.and decided to make the person involved pay for what they did to her child as well. She has noShe has noShe has no time to waste when it comes to pursuing the justice her beloved child deserved.time to waste when it comes to pursuing the justice her beloved child deserved.time to waste when it comes to pursuing the justice her beloved child deserved. The police beganThe police beganThe police began reconstructing what had happened at the school. They discovered that Ms. Cyril Alvarez had beenreconstructing what had happened at the school. They discovered that Ms. Cyril Alvarez had beenreconstructing what had happened at the school. They discovered that Ms. Cyril Alvarez had been the last person known to have spoken privately with Eigannel, according to one of his classmates.the last person known to have spoken privately with Eigannel, according to one of his classmates.the last person known to have spoken privately with Eigannel, according to one of his classmates. Thus, making her the primary suspect of the case.Thus, making her the primary suspect of the case.Thus, making her the primary suspect of the case. Ruth didn't know how she would function normally the next day. After she found her son dead, she broke down and mourned for her child, but immediately acted and decided to make the person involved pay for what they did to her child as well. She has no time to waste when it comes to pursuing the justice her beloved child deserved. The police began reconstructing what had happened at the school. They discovered that Ms. Cyril Alvarez had been the last person known to have spoken privately with Eigannel, according to one of his classmates. Thus, making her the primary suspect of the case.

“““What? No, that's impossible. I was alone at the faculty during that time, printing my documents. Also, I did not have any personalWhat? No, that's impossible. I was alone at the faculty during that time, printing my documents. Also, I did not have any personalWhat? No, that's impossible. I was alone at the faculty during that time, printing my documents. Also, I did not have any personal interaction with Eigannel. If I do, it's always with the whole class, not just him. I don't talk to him personally.”interaction with Eigannel. If I do, it's always with the whole class, not just him. I don't talk to him personally.”interaction with Eigannel. If I do, it's always with the whole class, not just him. I don't talk to him personally.” RuRuRuth got confused with herth got confused with herth got confused with her statement as she remembered something. Then she asked her,statement as she remembered something. Then she asked her,statement as she remembered something. Then she asked her, “You didn't talk to him personally? Not even that day? You didn't have any“You didn't talk to him personally? Not even that day? You didn't have any“You didn't talk to him personally? Not even that day? You didn't have any interactions with my son?”interactions with my son?”interactions with my son?” Ms. Alvarez confusingly responded,Ms. Alvarez confusingly responded,Ms. Alvarez confusingly responded, “No, Ma'am. Why?"“No, Ma'am. Why?"“No, Ma'am. Why?" "Well, I don't know, maybe you asked my son for some favor, even just for once. Helping you with your belongings, perhaps?”"Well, I don't know, maybe you asked my son for some favor, even just for once. Helping you with your belongings, perhaps?”"Well, I don't know, maybe you asked my son for some favor, even just for once. Helping you with your belongings, perhaps?” “What? No, that's impossible. I was alone at the faculty during that time, printing my documents. Also, I did not have any personal interaction with Eigannel. If I do, it's always with the whole class, not just him. I don't talk to him personally.” Ruth got confused with her statement as she remembered something. Then she asked her, “You didn't talk to him personally? Not even that day? You didn't have any interactions with my son?” Ms. Alvarez confusingly responded, “No, Ma'am. Why?" "Well, I don't know, maybe you asked my son for some favor, even just for once. Helping you with your belongings, perhaps?” Ms. Alvarez became more confused, and asked,Ms. Alvarez became more confused, and asked,Ms. Alvarez became more confused, and asked, “What? I would never ask my students to help me with my stuff. My items are heavy, and“What? I would never ask my students to help me with my stuff. My items are heavy, and“What? I would never ask my students to help me with my stuff. My items are heavy, and those might collapse onto them, so I would never do that. Not to Eigannelthose might collapse onto them, so I would never do that. Not to Eigannelthose might collapse onto them, so I would never do that. Not to Eigannel especially, since he has asthma.”especially, since he has asthma.”especially, since he has asthma.” There, Ruth got the answer thatThere, Ruth got the answer thatThere, Ruth got the answer that she wanted.she wanted.she wanted. She was clearly lying. Eigannel's classmates told her earlier that they've seen him carrying some stuff that his teacher asked him to, but hisShe was clearly lying. Eigannel's classmates told her earlier that they've seen him carrying some stuff that his teacher asked him to, but hisShe was clearly lying. Eigannel's classmates told her earlier that they've seen him carrying some stuff that his teacher asked him to, but his teacher is denying it. Between innocent kids and a functional adult, it's very obvious who has the capability to lie. Ruth was certain that thisteacher is denying it. Between innocent kids and a functional adult, it's very obvious who has the capability to lie. Ruth was certain that thisteacher is denying it. Between innocent kids and a functional adult, it's very obvious who has the capability to lie. Ruth was certain that this teacher was lying, and she is most likely who killed her son.teacher was lying, and she is most likely who killed her son.teacher was lying, and she is most likely who killed her son. Another school personnel entered the room. According to him, the security footage from the area outside the storage room was missing.Another school personnel entered the room. According to him, the security footage from the area outside the storage room was missing.Another school personnel entered the room. According to him, the security footage from the area outside the storage room was missing. Ruth observed Ms. Alvarez’s reaction. Since she was becoming suspicious of her, she couldn't think about anyone else who could doRuth observed Ms. Alvarez’s reaction. Since she was becoming suspicious of her, she couldn't think about anyone else who could doRuth observed Ms. Al

As a lawyer, Ruth knew better than to confront the accused without any proof at hand. Accusations without concreteAs a lawyer, Ruth knew better than to confront the accused without any proof at hand. Accusations without concreteAs a lawyer, Ruth knew better than to confront the accused without any proof at hand. Accusations without concrete evidence were useless, so for the court to take his son's case seriously, she wastes no time to find some evidence.evidence were useless, so for the court to take his son's case seriously, she wastes no time to find some evidence.evidence were useless, so for the court to take his son's case seriously, she wastes no time to find some evidence. SinceSinceSince she was highly suspicious of her son's teacher, she decided to track her movements. As a lawyer, she knows thatshe was highly suspicious of her son's teacher, she decided to track her movements. As a lawyer, she knows thatshe was highly suspicious of her son's teacher, she decided to track her movements. As a lawyer, she knows that criminals always re-check their crime scenes or dispose of evidence once they feel safe with their surroundings.criminals always re-check their crime scenes or dispose of evidence once they feel safe with their surroundings.criminals always re-check their crime scenes or dispose of evidence once they feel safe with their surroundings. So, Ruth discreetly stalks Cyril after school hours. She also went to the IT room of the campus by herself where theSo, Ruth discreetly stalks Cyril after school hours. She also went to the IT room of the campus by herself where theSo, Ruth discreetly stalks Cyril after school hours. She also went to the IT room of the campus by herself where the CCTVs are being handled. Instead of asking for the footage, she asks for the access log sheet or the digital audit log toCCTVs are being handled. Instead of asking for the footage, she asks for the access log sheet or the digital audit log toCCTVs are being handled. Instead of asking for the footage, she asks for the access log sheet or the digital audit log to find out who logged in the time where her son is currently in the storage room.find out who logged in the time where her son is currently in the storage room.find out who logged in the time where her son is currently in the storage room. As a lawyer, Ruth knew better than to confront the accused without any proof at hand. Accusations without concrete evidence were useless, so for the court to take his son's case seriously, she wastes no time to find some evidence. Since she was highly suspicious of her son's teacher, she decided to track her movements. As a lawyer, she knows that criminals always re-check their crime scenes or dispose of evidence once they feel safe with their surroundings. So, Ruth discreetly stalks Cyril after school hours. She also went to the IT room of the campus by herself where the CCTVs are being handled. Instead of asking for the footage, she asks for the access log sheet or the digital audit log to find out who logged in the time where her son is currently in the storage room.

She worked so hard to find some evidence that will bring justice to her son. She's not just a lawyer, she's a mother, too. So when she found something concrete that would make Ms. Alvarez the accused, she wasted no time filing a case.

Ms. Cyril Alvarez confidently attended the first trial. She knows and believes that she's not the killer, so whyMs. Cyril Alvarez confidently attended the first trial. She knows and believes that she's not the killer, so whyMs. Cyril Alvarez confidently attended the first trial. She knows and believes that she's not the killer, so why should she be nervous?should she be nervous?should she be nervous? RRRuth, on the other hand, was furiously observing her. Her current on hand evidenceuth, on the other hand, was furiously observing her. Her current on hand evidenceuth, on the other hand, was furiously observing her. Her current on hand evidence may not be that strong, but it clearly shows that this woman murdered her son. But of course, she has to bemay not be that strong, but it clearly shows that this woman murdered her son. But of course, she has to bemay not be that strong, but it clearly shows that this woman murdered her son. But of course, she has to be calm. Here, she's not just her son's mother, she's his lawyer as well.calm. Here, she's not just her son's mother, she's his lawyer as well.calm. Here, she's not just her son's mother, she's his lawyer as well. The first time she ever stepped into aThe first time she ever stepped into aThe first time she ever stepped into a courtroom as a lawyer, it wasn’t a stranger’s case she was there to fight.courtroom as a lawyer, it wasn’t a stranger’s case she was there to fight.courtroom as a lawyer, it wasn’t a stranger’s case she was there to fight. It was her own son’s.It was her own son’s.It was her own son’s. And this time, the law was no longer just her profession – it was the only thing standing between a mother andAnd this time, the law was no longer just her profession – it was the only thing standing between a mother andAnd this time, the law was no longer just her profession – it was the only thing standing between a mother and the truth about her dead child.the truth about her dead child.the truth about her dead child. Ms. Cyril Alvarez confidently attended the first trial. She knows and believes that she's not the killer, so why should she be nervous? Ruth, on the other hand, was furiously observing her. Her current on hand evidence may not be that strong, but it clearly shows that this woman murdered her son. But of course, she has to be calm. Here, she's not just her son's mother, she's his lawyer as well. The first time she ever stepped into a courtroom as a lawyer, it wasn’t a stranger’s case she was there to fight. It was her own son’s. And this time, the law was no longer just her profession – it was the only thing standing between a mother and the truth about her dead child.

While observing Ms. Alvarez, her stare was cut off when she noticed a man walking inside the court room as well. Black suit, familiar figure. Attorney Neil Alvarez. Ruth was speechless. She did not expect this to happen. Not now, not sooner. But it did. And unexpectedly, during her son's murder case. Neil was shocked as well. It's been years, and he never imagined that his reunion with her will be at the court room. Where they dreamt of both experiencing this together. Side by side, not on opposing sides. But here they are.

The courtroom was unusually quiet that morning. It was Ruth's first appearance not merely as a lawyer, but as a motherThe courtroom was unusually quiet that morning. It was Ruth's first appearance not merely as a lawyer, but as a motherThe courtroom was unusually quiet that morning. It was Ruth's first appearance not merely as a lawyer, but as a mother whose own child had been killed — and now, she was standing on the opposite side of the man accused of doing it.whose own child had been killed — and now, she was standing on the opposite side of the man accused of doing it.whose own child had been killed — and now, she was standing on the opposite side of the man accused of doing it. Across the courtroom sat Cyril, the accused, while beside him was Atty. Neil Alvarez, Ruth's former partner and theAcross the courtroom sat Cyril, the accused, while beside him was Atty. Neil Alvarez, Ruth's former partner and theAcross the courtroom sat Cyril, the accused, while beside him was Atty. Neil Alvarez, Ruth's former partner and the lawyer defending her.lawyer defending her.lawyer defending her. The charge before the court was Murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code, with the prosecution alleging thatThe charge before the court was Murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code, with the prosecution alleging thatThe charge before the court was Murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code, with the prosecution alleging that Eigannel's death was not accidental but the result of an intentional killing attended by circumstances that could qualifyEigannel's death was not accidental but the result of an intentional killing attended by circumstances that could qualifyEigannel's death was not accidental but the result of an intentional killing attended by circumstances that could qualify it as murder. The case also involved questions concerning the destruction or disappearance of electronic evidence,it as murder. The case also involved questions concerning the destruction or disappearance of electronic evidence,it as murder. The case also involved questions concerning the destruction or disappearance of electronic evidence, which would require proper authentication and proof before the court could rely upon it.which would require proper authentication and proof before the court could rely upon it.which would require proper authentication and proof before the court could rely upon it. The courtroom was unusually quiet that morning. It was Ruth's first appearance not merely as a lawyer, but as a mother whose own child had been killed — and now, she was standing on the opposite side of the man accused of doing it. Across the courtroom sat Cyril, the accused, while beside him was Atty. Neil Alvarez, Ruth's former partner and the lawyer defending her. The charge before the court was Murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code, with the prosecution alleging that Eigannel's death was not accidental but the result of an intentional killing attended by circumstances that could qualify it as murder. The case also involved questions concerning the destruction or disappearance of electronic evidence, which would require proper authentication and proof before the court could rely upon it.

The judge looked toward Ruth. “Counsel for the prosecution, you may proceed.” Ruth slowly stood. Her fingers tightened around the folder in front of her, but her voice remained controlled. “Thank you, Your Honor.” She turned toward Cyril. “Ms. Cyril, you were at the school on the day my son died, correct?” Cyril looked straight at her, “Yes.” “And the following day, you entered the school's storage room?” “Yes.” Ruth placed a photograph on the evidence table. “This photograph was taken after the police had already examined the area. Yet you returned to the storage room afterward. Why?” Cyril answered without hesitation, “I just went there to retrieve some of my things.” Ruth took another document, “You knew the police had already searched the room.” she stared at her, and continued, “And despite knowing that, you went back inside.” Cyril's eyes narrowed, “Because I had some belongings there.” Ruth stepped closer. “Or maybe because you wanted to make sure you hadn't left anything behind?” Cyril's jaw tightened. On the other hand, her attorney, Atty. Neil stood up. “Objection, Your Honor. Counsel is asking the witness to speculate about his own motive.” The judge nodded, “Sustained. Counsel, confine your questions to facts established by the evidence.”

Ruth paused. Neil continued, “The mere fact that my client entered a storage room proves nothing. She has already stated that she had belongings there. There is no provided fingerprint, DNA, photograph, or other physical evidence showing that he entered that room to conceal or remove evidence.” Ruth stared at Neil for several seconds. She knew he was right about one thing: the storage room entry alone could not establish Cyril's guilt. “Understood, Your Honor,” she said. “I have another piece of evidence.” She returned to her table and picked up a thin sheet of paper. “This is the access log for the school's IT room on the day Eigannel disappeared.” She handed it to the clerk. “At approximately the same period when the victim went missing, the CCTV recording covering the relevant area was deleted. The access log shows that Mr. Cyril entered the IT room during that period.” The courtroom stirred. Cyril's expression remained composed. Ruth continued, “Ms. Cyril, did you access the IT room that afternoon?” "Yes.” “Were you aware that the CCTV footage had disappeared?” “No.” “You expect this court to believe that you entered the IT room at almost exactly the same time the footage disappeared, yet had nothing to do with it?” Neil immediately stood. “Objection. Argumentative.” “Sustained.” Neil faced the judge. “Furthermore, Your Honor, the access log does not establish that my client deleted anything. The same record shows that other individuals accessed the IT room during the same period. The prosecution has not established that Ms. Cyril was the person who deleted the footage, nor that he even had the necessary access to do so.” Ruth looked at the sheet again. He was right. The log placed Cyril there, but it did not place her hands on the keyboard. The judge examined the document, “The court will consider the evidentiary value of the access log subject to proper authentication and the evidence that may be presented regarding the deletion of the CCTV footage.” Ruth slowly nodded, “No further questions on that evidence, Your Honor.”

She reached for the final folder on her table. “Your Honor,” she said again, “the prosecution has one more piece of evidence.” Neil looked toward her, confused. Ruth turned toward the courtroom doors, “A witness.”

“Eigannel, ihjo, can you help me“Eigannel, ihjo, can you help me“Eigannel, ihjo, can you help me carry these to the storage room?”carry these to the storage room?”carry these to the storage room?” During the student's free hours,During the student's free hours,During the student's free hours, Ma'am Cyril looked for Eigannel toMa'am Cyril looked for Eigannel toMa'am Cyril looked for Eigannel to ask him for some help. But one of hisask him for some help. But one of hisask him for some help. But one of his classmates heard and interrupted,classmates heard and interrupted,classmates heard and interrupted, “Ah, Ma'am, I can help you instead of“Ah, Ma'am, I can help you instead of“Ah, Ma'am, I can help you instead of Eigannel! Since he has an asthma, heEigannel! Since he has an asthma, heEigannel! Since he has an asthma, he can't —”can't —”can't —” “Eigannel, ihjo, can you help me carry these to the storage room?” During the student's free hours, Ma'am Cyril looked for Eigannel to ask him for some help. But one of his classmates heard and interrupted, “Ah, Ma'am, I can help you instead of Eigannel! Since he has an asthma, he can't —”• FLASHBACK •

“I was asking EIGANNEL, ihja,”“I was asking EIGANNEL, ihja,”“I was asking EIGANNEL, ihja,” she tried to fake a smile.she tried to fake a smile.she tried to fake a smile. Both Eigannel and his classmate were confused and shocked, so they had no choice but to respond,Both Eigannel and his classmate were confused and shocked, so they had no choice but to respond,Both Eigannel and his classmate were confused and shocked, so they had no choice but to respond, “Ah.. okay,“Ah.. okay,“Ah.. okay, Ma'am.”Ma'am.”Ma'am.” Eigannel had no choice but to follow his teacher and help her. Ma'am Cyril instructed Eigannel to carefully bringEigannel had no choice but to follow his teacher and help her. Ma'am Cyril instructed Eigannel to carefully bringEigannel had no choice but to follow his teacher and help her. Ma'am Cyril instructed Eigannel to carefully bring the heavy belongings to the storage room.the heavy belongings to the storage room.the heavy belongings to the storage room. “It's only on the second floor so you don't have to worry. You just have“It's only on the second floor so you don't have to worry. You just have“It's only on the second floor so you don't have to worry. You just have to bring these there and arrange them carefully so we won't misplace this, okay?”to bring these there and arrange them carefully so we won't misplace this, okay?”to bring these there and arrange them carefully so we won't misplace this, okay?” “Okay, Ma'am,”“Okay, Ma'am,”“Okay, Ma'am,” he responded, then carried the belongings.he responded, then carried the belongings.he responded, then carried the belongings. “I was asking EIGANNEL, ihja,” she tried to fake a smile. Both Eigannel and his classmate were confused and shocked, so they had no choice but to respond, “Ah.. okay, Ma'am.” Eigannel had no choice but to follow his teacher and help her. Ma'am Cyril instructed Eigannel to carefully bring the heavy belongings to the storage room. “It's only on the second floor so you don't have to worry. You just have to bring these there and arrange them carefully so we won't misplace this, okay?” “Okay, Ma'am,” he responded, then carried the belongings.• FLASHBACK •

• FLASHBACK •It was heavy. And for someone who has asthma, it was challenging to carry heavy stuff whileIt was heavy. And for someone who has asthma, it was challenging to carry heavy stuff whileIt was heavy. And for someone who has asthma, it was challenging to carry heavy stuff while walking upstairs, so when Eigannel's classmates spotted him, they offered to help.walking upstairs, so when Eigannel's classmates spotted him, they offered to help.walking upstairs, so when Eigannel's classmates spotted him, they offered to help. “Oh, no, it's okay! Ma'am said that the room is just located on the second floor, I can do this!”“Oh, no, it's okay! Ma'am said that the room is just located on the second floor, I can do this!”“Oh, no, it's okay! Ma'am said that the room is just located on the second floor, I can do this!” It was heavy. And for someone who has asthma, it was challenging to carry heavy stuff while walking upstairs, so when Eigannel's classmates spotted him, they offered to help. “Oh, no, it's okay! Ma'am said that the room is just located on the second floor, I can do this!”

• FLASHBACK •Eigannel tried to be optimistic. But when he reached the storage room, he caught his breath. He stayed there for a minute,Eigannel tried to be optimistic. But when he reached the storage room, he caught his breath. He stayed there for a minute,Eigannel tried to be optimistic. But when he reached the storage room, he caught his breath. He stayed there for a minute, breathing heavily. He arranged the stuff he brought just like what his teacher advised him. And when he's finally done, he reachedbreathing heavily. He arranged the stuff he brought just like what his teacher advised him. And when he's finally done, he reachedbreathing heavily. He arranged the stuff he brought just like what his teacher advised him. And when he's finally done, he reached for the door to leave, but it was locked.for the door to leave, but it was locked.for the door to leave, but it was locked. It was locked. But it's not, earlier.It was locked. But it's not, earlier.It was locked. But it's not, earlier. So he was confused. He tried to open the door with all his might, but failed.So he was confused. He tried to open the door with all his might, but failed.So he was confused. He tried to open the door with all his might, but failed. The room was cramped. And it became more tinyThe room was cramped. And it became more tinyThe room was cramped. And it became more tiny because of the stuff inside. There's little to no air, and the amount of air inside was contaminated with dust.because of the stuff inside. There's little to no air, and the amount of air inside was contaminated with dust.because of the stuff inside. There's little to no air, and the amount of air inside was contaminated with dust. Eigannel's asthmaEigannel's asthmaEigannel's asthma attacked again. He struggled to breathe. He tries so hard, but he can't.attacked again. He struggled to breathe. He tries so hard, but he can't.attacked again. He struggled to breathe. He tries so hard, but he can't. Eigannel tried to be optimistic. But when he reached the storage room, he caught his breath. He stayed there for a minute, breathing heavily. He arranged the stuff he brought just like what his teacher advised him. And when he's finally done, he reached for the door to leave, but it was locked. It was locked. But it's not, earlier. So he was confused. He tried to open the door with all his might, but failed. The room was cramped. And it became more tiny because of the stuff inside. There's little to no air, and the amount of air inside was contaminated with dust. Eigannel's asthma attacked again. He struggled to breathe. He tries so hard, but he can't.

• FLASHBACK •Then he passed out.Then he passed out.Then he passed out. What he didn't know was that his teacher, Ma'am Cyril, was following him all along. She watched him struggle, and when heWhat he didn't know was that his teacher, Ma'am Cyril, was following him all along. She watched him struggle, and when heWhat he didn't know was that his teacher, Ma'am Cyril, was following him all along. She watched him struggle, and when he finally reached the storage room, she immediately locked it. She went to another room to waste some time and form an alibi,finally reached the storage room, she immediately locked it. She went to another room to waste some time and form an alibi,finally reached the storage room, she immediately locked it. She went to another room to waste some time and form an alibi, then she returned after an hour to check Eigannel.then she returned after an hour to check Eigannel.then she returned after an hour to check Eigannel. She casually looked around if someone was there and could see her in the storage room, and when she confirmed that noShe casually looked around if someone was there and could see her in the storage room, and when she confirmed that noShe casually looked around if someone was there and could see her in the storage room, and when she confirmed that no one would, she opened the door and went in. Eigannel was lying on the floor, holding his chest.one would, she opened the door and went in. Eigannel was lying on the floor, holding his chest.one would, she opened the door and went in. Eigannel was lying on the floor, holding his chest. Then he passed out. What he didn't know was that his teacher, Ma'am Cyril, was following him all along. She watched him struggle, and when he finally reached the storage room, she immediately locked it. She went to another room to waste some time and form an alibi, then she returned after an hour to check Eigannel. She casually looked around if someone was there and could see her in the storage room, and when she confirmed that no one would, she opened the door and went in. Eigannel was lying on the floor, holding his chest.

No emotion can be found written on Cyril's face. This is exactly what she wanted toNo emotion can be found written on Cyril's face. This is exactly what she wanted toNo emotion can be found written on Cyril's face. This is exactly what she wanted to happen, and everything is going well according to her plan.happen, and everything is going well according to her plan.happen, and everything is going well according to her plan. And there, she proceeded toAnd there, she proceeded toAnd there, she proceeded to end all of it. Her plan, andend all of it. Her plan, andend all of it. Her plan, and his life.his life.his life. No emotion can be found written on Cyril's face. This is exactly what she wanted to happen, and everything is going well according to her plan. And there, she proceeded to end all of it. Her plan, and his life.• FLASHBACK •

The student took the witness stand. She looked young and nervous, her hands trembling slightly as she swore to tell the truth. Ruth approached her slowly, careful not to intimidate her. “Can you tell the court what you saw on the day Eigannel disappeared?” The girl swallowed hard before looking toward Cyril. “I was with Eigannel that time, when Ma’am asked him to help her with some of her stuff,” her voice became quieter. “I offered to help and do it myself since I know that Eigannel has asthma and he will surely struggle with those heavy stuff. But Ma'am said that she personally asked Eigannel, like she's telling me not to interrupt.” A murmur spread throughout the courtroom. Ruth's eyes immediately shifted toward Cyril. “And what happened after that?” The girl lowered her gaze. “Then Eigannel went with her.” She hesitated, “I got scared, so I didn't interrupt anymore, but he didn't come back after that." For a moment, Cyril didn't move. Then her expression changed. Her eyes widened as she stared at the witness. This was not the testimony she had expected. She had prepared herself for the CCTV footage, the access logs, and the storage room — but not for a child who had been there. Cyril's breathing became noticeably heavier. “That's not—” she interrupted. Neil immediately turned toward her. “Cyril, don't.” Ruth stood frozen for a moment, absorbing every word. The witness hadn't seen the murder itself, she hadn't seen what happened afterward. But she had seen something Cyril had thought nobody remembered: the moment she personally approached Eigannel and took him away from the eyes and safety of his classmates. Neil stood and addressed the judge. “Your Honor, we request the opportunity to cross-examine the witness on the substance and circumstances of his testimony.” The judge nodded, “Noted. The defense will be given the opportunity to conduct its cross-examination in accordance with the rules.” Ruth looked at Cyril. For the first time that day, she no longer looked confident. She looked frightened and nervous.

The judge then closed the folder containingThe judge then closed the folder containingThe judge then closed the folder containing the evidence presented during the hearing.the evidence presented during the hearing.the evidence presented during the hearing. “““The court has heard the initial evidence andThe court has heard the initial evidence andThe court has heard the initial evidence and testimony presented by the prosecution.testimony presented by the prosecution.testimony presented by the prosecution. However, the court will need time to evaluateHowever, the court will need time to evaluateHowever, the court will need time to evaluate the credibility of the matters presentedthe credibility of the matters presentedthe credibility of the matters presented before it. The parties will be given the properbefore it. The parties will be given the properbefore it. The parties will be given the proper schedule for the continuation of theschedule for the continuation of theschedule for the continuation of the proceedings.”proceedings.”proceedings.” The gavel banged the block andThe gavel banged the block andThe gavel banged the block and struck the bench. “struck the bench. “struck the bench. “This hearing isThis hearing isThis hearing is adjourned.”adjourned.”adjourned.” Everyone began to rise, but Ruth remainedEveryone began to rise, but Ruth remainedEveryone began to rise, but Ruth remained still for a moment. She looked at the witness,still for a moment. She looked at the witness,still for a moment. She looked at the witness, then at Cyril. Cyril avoided her eyes. As thethen at Cyril. Cyril avoided her eyes. As thethen at Cyril. Cyril avoided her eyes. As the courtroom slowly emptied, Neil leanedcourtroom slowly emptied, Neil leanedcourtroom slowly emptied, Neil leaned toward her client,toward her client,toward her client, “We need to talk.” C“We need to talk.” C“We need to talk.” Cyrilyrilyril said nothing. Her eyes remained fixed on thesaid nothing. Her eyes remained fixed on thesaid nothing. Her eyes remained fixed on the witness as the girl was escorted out of thewitness as the girl was escorted out of thewitness as the girl was escorted out of the courtroom. Ruth gathered her documents,courtroom. Ruth gathered her documents,courtroom. Ruth gathered her documents, but before leaving, she glanced once more atbut before leaving, she glanced once more atbut before leaving, she glanced once more at the empty witness stand. She had enteredthe empty witness stand. She had enteredthe empty witness stand. She had entered the courtroom with evidence that raisedthe courtroom with evidence that raisedthe courtroom with evidence that raised questions. Now, she had something far morequestions. Now, she had something far morequestions. Now, she had something far more dangerous against Cyril— a witness. Anddangerous against Cyril— a witness. Anddangerous against Cyril— a witness. And somewhere beneath Cyril's silence was thesomewhere beneath Cyril's silence was thesomewhere beneath Cyril's silence was the realization that the evidence she thought sherealization that the evidence she thought sherealization that the evidence she thought she had erased might never have been the thinghad erased might never have been the thinghad erased might never have been the thing that could expose her in the first place.that could expose her in the first place.that could expose her in the first place. The judge then closed the folder containing the evidence presented during the hearing. “The court has heard the initial evidence and testimony presented by the prosecution. However, the court will need time to evaluate the credibility of the matters presented before it. The parties will be given the proper schedule for the continuation of the proceedings.” The gavel banged the block and struck the bench. “This hearing is adjourned.” Everyone began to rise, but Ruth remained still for a moment. She looked at the witness, then at Cyril. Cyril avoided her eyes. As the courtroom slowly emptied, Neil leaned toward her client, “We need to talk.” Cyril said nothing. Her eyes remained fixed on the witness as the girl was escorted out of the courtroom. Ruth gathered her documents, but before leaving, she glanced once more at the empty witness stand. She had entered the courtroom with evidence that raised questions. Now, she had something far more dangerous against Cyril— a witness. And somewhere beneath Cyril's silence was the realization that the evidence she thought she had erased might never have been the thing that could expose her in the first place.

As time passes, Atty. Neil Alvarez continued representing his sister. Yes, sister. This is the main reason why he got involved in this case against Ruth. But recently, he was beginning to doubt his sister as well. So, he reviewed her phone records, and he checked her recent movements.

Alvarez family inheritanceEigannel OlaveHe discovered that Cyril had searched for information about their family inheritance. He froze. Why would his sister be researching their inheritance? Then he found something else — A record mentioning the child involved in the case, Eigannel Olave. He stared at the name. Something about it bothered him, so he began investigating the child as well. He checked everything, but what poked his interest was when he checked Eigannel's birth date. His hands went cold. It was exactly around the time months after he and Ruth broke up. So to confirm his suspicions and end his inner doubts, he went to the only person who can confirm all of this.

He barged into Ruth’s office and directly asked,He barged into Ruth’s office and directly asked,He barged into Ruth’s office and directly asked, “What was Eigannel's exact birth date?”“What was Eigannel's exact birth date?”“What was Eigannel's exact birth date?” Ruth stared at him, still shocked by his sudden appearance, and confusingly asked,Ruth stared at him, still shocked by his sudden appearance, and confusingly asked,Ruth stared at him, still shocked by his sudden appearance, and confusingly asked, “““Attorney Alvarez? What are you doing here?”Attorney Alvarez? What are you doing here?”Attorney Alvarez? What are you doing here?” “What was Eigannel's exact birth date?”“What was Eigannel's exact birth date?”“What was Eigannel's exact birth date?” he asked again.he asked again.he asked again. "Huh? Why?""Huh? Why?""Huh? Why?" “Please. You know why, Ruth.”“Please. You know why, Ruth.”“Please. You know why, Ruth.” After a minute of silence, she gave him the answer he wanted. And there, he got hisAfter a minute of silence, she gave him the answer he wanted. And there, he got hisAfter a minute of silence, she gave him the answer he wanted. And there, he got his confirmation. He finally understood. He broke down.confirmation. He finally understood. He broke down.confirmation. He finally understood. He broke down. He barged into Ruth’s office and directly asked, “What was Eigannel's exact birth date?” Ruth stared at him, still shocked by his sudden appearance, and confusingly asked, “Attorney Alvarez? What are you doing here?” “What was Eigannel's exact birth date?” he asked again. "Huh? Why?" “Please. You know why, Ruth.” After a minute of silence, she gave him the answer he wanted. And there, he got his confirmation. He finally understood. He broke down.

“Ruth… why?” She said nothing. “He was mine all along, and yet, you didn't tell me?” Ruth looked away. “Why? Why didn't you tell me??” She weepingly says, “Because your career was greater than your desire to build a family with me, and that scared me because you always knew that I've always wanted to be a mother.” He cried more. “Ever since I was a kid, Neil, you knew that motherhood is something that I wanted to experience.” He stared at her. For years, he had believed he had simply lost Ruth because she left him out of nowhere. Now, he discovered he not only lost her, but he lost a family he never even knew existed. All because of his incompetence and negligence. And the worst part is — he has been defending the person who destroyed his family all along, and it's part of his family.Now that Neil knows the truth, he can't stop thinking about the past that he and Ruth had left behind.

• FLASHBACK •They had met years ago as young law students. They casually became friends, and months later, had fallen in love.They had met years ago as young law students. They casually became friends, and months later, had fallen in love.They had met years ago as young law students. They casually became friends, and months later, had fallen in love. They had planned a future together. Taking the bars, passing the bars, building a successful career in the law field,They had planned a future together. Taking the bars, passing the bars, building a successful career in the law field,They had planned a future together. Taking the bars, passing the bars, building a successful career in the law field, all while being side by side. But their relationship ended when Ruth decided that she doesn't want to continue itall while being side by side. But their relationship ended when Ruth decided that she doesn't want to continue itall while being side by side. But their relationship ended when Ruth decided that she doesn't want to continue it anymore. This is the time she discovered she was pregnant, and she tried so many times to contact Neil and tell himanymore. This is the time she discovered she was pregnant, and she tried so many times to contact Neil and tell himanymore. This is the time she discovered she was pregnant, and she tried so many times to contact Neil and tell him the news, but the message never reached him.the news, but the message never reached him.the news, but the message never reached him. So she left without saying goodbye.So she left without saying goodbye.So she left without saying goodbye. Neil believed that Ruth had chosen to leave without uttering a word, while she believed that he never returned. AsNeil believed that Ruth had chosen to leave without uttering a word, while she believed that he never returned. AsNeil believed that Ruth had chosen to leave without uttering a word, while she believed that he never returned. As time passed, Ruth raised their child alone, while Neiltime passed, Ruth raised their child alone, while Neiltime passed, Ruth raised their child alone, while Neil continued his life without knowing he had a son. They bothcontinued his life without knowing he had a son. They bothcontinued his life without knowing he had a son. They both continued their own lives trapped between a misunderstanding that both of them never even knew existed.continued their own lives trapped between a misunderstanding that both of them never even knew existed.continued their own lives trapped between a misunderstanding that both of them never even knew existed. They had met years ago as young law students. They casually became friends, and months later, had fallen in love. They had planned a future together. Taking the bars, passing the bars, building a successful career in the law field, all while being side by side. But their relationship ended when Ruth decided that she doesn't want to continue it anymore. This is the time she discovered she was pregnant, and she tried so many times to contact Neil and tell him the news, but the message never reached him. So she left without saying goodbye. Neil believed that Ruth had chosen to leave without uttering a word, while she believed that he never returned. As time passed, Ruth raised their child alone, while Neil continued his life without knowing he had a son. They both continued their own lives trapped between a misunderstanding that both of them never even knew existed.

“I actually told you, but I guess you just didn't care. Considering that you never contacted us back, and you just continued pursuing your career instead of us.” Neil was confused for a moment, and spoke, “What do you mean you told me? I spent all of my years building my career so I won't linger on the fact that you left without a word.” Neither of them spoke for a long time. And that's the time where it all sank in. The misunderstandings, and the regret of leaving the past they once had without any closure. But they both understood that they could never get those lost years back. However, there was still one thing left that they could do, for their son. Find out who took Eigannel from them.

The atmosphere is tense and quiet inside. RuthThe atmosphere is tense and quiet inside. RuthThe atmosphere is tense and quiet inside. Ruth whispered to herself,whispered to herself,whispered to herself, ”I’m going to make sure she pays. I’ll get justice for our”I’m going to make sure she pays. I’ll get justice for our”I’m going to make sure she pays. I’ll get justice for our son, even if I have to stand against you to the very end.”son, even if I have to stand against you to the very end.”son, even if I have to stand against you to the very end.” The heavy doors open. Neil walks in, wearing his suit. Exhaustion and guilt are written all over his face. Beside him walksThe heavy doors open. Neil walks in, wearing his suit. Exhaustion and guilt are written all over his face. Beside him walksThe heavy doors open. Neil walks in, wearing his suit. Exhaustion and guilt are written all over his face. Beside him walks Cyril, wrists handcuffed. Ruth looks up, her eyes burning with resentment as she sees Neil walking in with Cyril.Cyril, wrists handcuffed. Ruth looks up, her eyes burning with resentment as she sees Neil walking in with Cyril.Cyril, wrists handcuffed. Ruth looks up, her eyes burning with resentment as she sees Neil walking in with Cyril. ”You really came... You’re still defending your sister. Even after finding out she took our son away... you still chose your”You really came... You’re still defending your sister. Even after finding out she took our son away... you still chose your”You really came... You’re still defending your sister. Even after finding out she took our son away... you still chose your career over Eigannel?”career over Eigannel?”career over Eigannel?” Ruth thought.Ruth thought.Ruth thought. The judge enters, takes the bench and taps the gavel.The judge enters, takes the bench and taps the gavel.The judge enters, takes the bench and taps the gavel. “We are now in session for the final statements in the murder trial of“We are now in session for the final statements in the murder trial of“We are now in session for the final statements in the murder trial of Eigannel John Olave. Defense Counsel Neil, you may take the floor.”Eigannel John Olave. Defense Counsel Neil, you may take the floor.”Eigannel John Olave. Defense Counsel Neil, you may take the floor.” Neil was taken aback, hearing his son’s name not bearing his surname. That punched his heart.Neil was taken aback, hearing his son’s name not bearing his surname. That punched his heart.Neil was taken aback, hearing his son’s name not bearing his surname. That punched his heart. The atmosphere is tense and quiet inside. Ruth whispered to herself, ”I’m going to make sure she pays. I’ll get justice for our son, even if I have to stand against you to the very end.” The heavy doors open. Neil walks in, wearing his suit. Exhaustion and guilt are written all over his face. Beside him walks Cyril, wrists handcuffed. Ruth looks up, her eyes burning with resentment as she sees Neil walking in with Cyril. ”You really came... You’re still defending your sister. Even after finding out she took our son away... you still chose your career over Eigannel?” Ruth thought. The judge enters, takes the bench and taps the gavel. “We are now in session for the final statements in the murder trial of Eigannel John Olave. Defense Counsel Neil, you may take the floor.” Neil was taken aback, hearing his son’s name not bearing his surname. That punched his heart.

He steps up to the lectern. He avoids looking at Cyril. He adjusts his microphone, his voice firm yet carrying an immense weight. "Your Honor... before I deliver my statement, I am filing an urgent motion to officially withdraw as lead counsel for the defense.” Cyril turns her head sharply, staring at Neil in utter shock. Ruth freezes, her eyes widening. "Kuya?! What are you doing?!” Ignoring Cyril, Neil looked directly at the Judge, “Furthermore, Your Honor... I am stepping down as her lawyer to officially enter this court as a key witness against her. I am turning over crucial evidence that directly links Cyril to the murder of Eigannel.” “Counsel Neil, explain this sudden shift.” “For months, Your Honor, I stood here defending her because she is my sister. I fought this case blind... until I discovered the truth. The young boy whose life she took... was my own son,” his voice cracks slightly. Neil slowly turns to face Ruth. Their eyes lock — filled with devastating remorse. "I cannot defend the hands that killed my child. I failed as a lawyer for taking this long, but today, as a father... I will fight for my son.” Cyril glares at Neil, her voice filled with panic and anger, ”You betrayed me, Neil! I’m your sister! You're supposed to protect me!” Looking Cyril dead in the eye, cold and resolute, “I protected you for years, Cyril. But today, you are going to pay for taking my son away.”

"Proceed, Counsel." ”We present the latent fingerprint analysis, Your Honor. It appears the accused failed to wear gloves when she turned the storage room doorknob." Gasps echo through the gallery. Cyril’s eyes widened in shock. ”You cannot use that as evidence! There are so many people who touch that, why me?!” ”Order! Order in the court! Accused, refrain from speaking out of turn or you will be cited for direct contempt! Counsel, proceed.” “Thank you, Your Honor. While it is true that multiple people touch that entrance daily, campus maintenance confirms that they sanitize and wipe down all door handles every morning before classes start. On the day of the incident, forensic lifting recovered exactly three distinct sets of fingerprints from that storage room door handle.” Silence falls over the entire courtroom.Neil steps back up to the lectern, picking up a sealed forensic folder from his briefcase. “With the Court’s permission, Your Honor. We are now submitting our final and most conclusive piece of evidence — the one that directly ties the accused, Ms. Alvarez, to this crime.” Cyril’s breathing grows rapidly. She panics, knowing she threw away every piece of physical evidence that could trace back to her.

”First, from the victim, Eigannel. Second, from Attorney Olave—the mother of the victim, who discovered the body..." Neil turns slowly and looks directly at Cyril. “...And third, belongs to the accused, Ms. Cyril Alvarez.” Ruth lets out a sharp breath, tears welling up in her eyes — a sudden mix of heartbreak and immense relief as the final puzzle piece falls into place. ”We rest our case, Your Honor.”

Neil walks away from the defense desk and steps straight toward Ruth. He stops beside her table, bowing his head slightly, “Let’s win this for our son.” Ruth swallows hard, a single tear falling down her face as she slowly nods. ”Having found the accused, Ms. Alvarez, guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the crime of Murder, the Supreme Court hereby sentences her to reclusion perpetua, in accordance with law.” For once, their family’s presence came together — not in forgiveness, but in a desperate cry for justice. Hours later, the gavel fell. And finally, Eigannel received the justice Cyril had tried to bury with him.

Before they could even celebrate, Cyril spoke,“You’re lucky, Neil. I didn’t kill you first,”Everyone gasped, not expecting her sudden words. She paused, her eyes fixed on him.“ ..because I chose your son instead.” The courtroom fell deadly silent. Neil clenched his fist. “Dad’s favorite, aren’t you? You have always been. That’s why you got everything — the inheritance, our family’s name, everything he left behind. No one loves me in our family!” “You know it’s not true, Cyril. I have always protected you from Dad.” “Oh, cut the drama! You should have known better than to take away everything I had…Because now, I have nothing left to lose.” Before Cyril could even storm off and slam everything around, officers approached her immediately to detain her. Cyril shouted one last time, “You two will pay for this…Youll regret all of this, Neil!”.

EIGANNEL JOHN OLAVEEIGANNEL JOHN OLAVEEIGANNEL JOHN OLAVEEIGANNEL JOHN OLAVE2014201420142014

Ruth sits beside Eigannel’s headstone, her hand gentlyRuth sits beside Eigannel’s headstone, her hand gentlyRuth sits beside Eigannel’s headstone, her hand gently tracing her son's name, sadness can be seen throughtracing her son's name, sadness can be seen throughtracing her son's name, sadness can be seen through her face.her face.her face. “Happy birthday, my sweet boy... How are you up“Happy birthday, my sweet boy... How are you up“Happy birthday, my sweet boy... How are you up there? Mama misses you so so much. We won the case,there? Mama misses you so so much. We won the case,there? Mama misses you so so much. We won the case, son. Your Tita Cyril is where she belongs now. No oneson. Your Tita Cyril is where she belongs now. No oneson. Your Tita Cyril is where she belongs now. No one will ever hurt you again.”will ever hurt you again.”will ever hurt you again.” She pauses, exhaling a trembling breath.She pauses, exhaling a trembling breath.She pauses, exhaling a trembling breath. “It still hurts so much, Eigannel... But Mama is doing“It still hurts so much, Eigannel... But Mama is doing“It still hurts so much, Eigannel... But Mama is doing her best to stay strong for you.”her best to stay strong for you.”her best to stay strong for you.” Ruth sits beside Eigannel’s headstone, her hand gently tracing her son's name, sadness can be seen through her face. “Happy birthday, my sweet boy... How are you up there? Mama misses you so so much. We won the case, son. Your Tita Cyril is where she belongs now. No one will ever hurt you again.” She pauses, exhaling a trembling breath. “It still hurts so much, Eigannel... But Mama is doing her best to stay strong for you.”

Quiet footsteps approach on the grass. Ruth turns and sees NeilQuiet footsteps approach on the grass. Ruth turns and sees NeilQuiet footsteps approach on the grass. Ruth turns and sees Neil walking up, carrying a bouquet of flowers, a single cupcake, andwalking up, carrying a bouquet of flowers, a single cupcake, andwalking up, carrying a bouquet of flowers, a single cupcake, and a white candle. They lock eyes for a long moment. Neither speaksa white candle. They lock eyes for a long moment. Neither speaksa white candle. They lock eyes for a long moment. Neither speaks as the heavy silence of grief and past hurts hangs between them.as the heavy silence of grief and past hurts hangs between them.as the heavy silence of grief and past hurts hangs between them. Neil spoke with gentle yet hesitant voice,Neil spoke with gentle yet hesitant voice,Neil spoke with gentle yet hesitant voice, “Ruth... May I sit with“Ruth... May I sit with“Ruth... May I sit with him?”him?”him?” Ruth stares at him, her anger now replaced by a quiet, sharedRuth stares at him, her anger now replaced by a quiet, sharedRuth stares at him, her anger now replaced by a quiet, shared pain. She moves slightly to give him space. Neil steps forwardpain. She moves slightly to give him space. Neil steps forwardpain. She moves slightly to give him space. Neil steps forward and kneels beside the headstone. He places the white rosesand kneels beside the headstone. He places the white rosesand kneels beside the headstone. He places the white roses down, sets the cupcake beside it, and lights the candle.down, sets the cupcake beside it, and lights the candle.down, sets the cupcake beside it, and lights the candle. Quiet footsteps approach on the grass. Ruth turns and sees Neil walking up, carrying a bouquet of flowers, a single cupcake, and a white candle. They lock eyes for a long moment. Neither speaks as the heavy silence of grief and past hurts hangs between them. Neil spoke with gentle yet hesitant voice, “Ruth... May I sit with him?” Ruth stares at him, her anger now replaced by a quiet, shared pain. She moves slightly to give him space. Neil steps forward and kneels beside the headstone. He places the white roses down, sets the cupcake beside it, and lights the candle.

“Happy birthday, Eigannel. My son... Daddy’s here. I brought you a cupcake and these flowers... I’m sorry I don’t know the things“Happy birthday, Eigannel. My son... Daddy’s here. I brought you a cupcake and these flowers... I’m sorry I don’t know the things“Happy birthday, Eigannel. My son... Daddy’s here. I brought you a cupcake and these flowers... I’m sorry I don’t know the things about you, your likes, your hobbies, your favorite game or sport. I apologize son that it took me so long to learn the truth, toabout you, your likes, your hobbies, your favorite game or sport. I apologize son that it took me so long to learn the truth, toabout you, your likes, your hobbies, your favorite game or sport. I apologize son that it took me so long to learn the truth, to finally stand up as your father. How I wish I could turn back time, buddy. Sorry, I failed to protect you.”finally stand up as your father. How I wish I could turn back time, buddy. Sorry, I failed to protect you.”finally stand up as your father. How I wish I could turn back time, buddy. Sorry, I failed to protect you.” Neil touches the coldNeil touches the coldNeil touches the cold stone,stone,stone, “I hope you can hear me, buddy... I love you, and I am so sorry for being late.”“I hope you can hear me, buddy... I love you, and I am so sorry for being late.”“I hope you can hear me, buddy... I love you, and I am so sorry for being late.” Ruth looks at Neil, seeing the polished lawyer broken down into a grieving father. The knot of bitterness in her chest slowlyRuth looks at Neil, seeing the polished lawyer broken down into a grieving father. The knot of bitterness in her chest slowlyRuth looks at Neil, seeing the polished lawyer broken down into a grieving father. The knot of bitterness in her chest slowly softens.softens.softens. "He hears you, Neil. He heard you in that courtroom... and he hears you now.”"He hears you, Neil. He heard you in that courtroom... and he hears you now.”"He hears you, Neil. He heard you in that courtroom... and he hears you now.” “Happy birthday, Eigannel. My son... Daddy’s here. I brought you a cupcake and these flowers... I’m sorry I don’t know the things about you, your likes, your hobbies, your favorite game or sport. I apologize son that it took me so long to learn the truth, to finally stand up as your father. How I wish I could turn back time, buddy. Sorry, I failed to protect you.” Neil touches the cold stone, “I hope you can hear me, buddy... I love you, and I am so sorry for being late.” Ruth looks at Neil, seeing the polished lawyer broken down into a grieving father. The knot of bitterness in her chest slowly softens. "He hears you, Neil. He heard you in that courtroom... and he hears you now.” “I don't expect you to forgive“I don't expect you to forgive“I don't expect you to forgive me, Ruth... for fighting againstme, Ruth... for fighting againstme, Ruth... for fighting against you, for leaving you to carryyou, for leaving you to carryyou, for leaving you to carry this pain alone for so long. I’llthis pain alone for so long. I’llthis pain alone for so long. I’ll carry that regret for the restcarry that regret for the restcarry that regret for the rest of my life.”of my life.”of my life.” “I don't expect you to forgive me, Ruth... for fighting against you, for leaving you to carry this pain alone for so long. I’ll carry that regret for the rest of my life.” ”””We were both blinded byWe were both blinded byWe were both blinded by different things, Neil... But indifferent things, Neil... But indifferent things, Neil... But in the end, you stood up for himthe end, you stood up for himthe end, you stood up for him when it mattered the most.when it mattered the most.when it mattered the most. You fought for our boy.”You fought for our boy.”You fought for our boy.” ”We were both blinded by different things, Neil... But in the end, you stood up for him when it mattered the most. You fought for our boy.” A peaceful quiet settles overA peaceful quiet settles overA peaceful quiet settles over them. Neil slowly reachesthem. Neil slowly reachesthem. Neil slowly reaches out and places his hand onout and places his hand onout and places his hand on the grass right next tothe grass right next tothe grass right next to Ruth’s. He hesitates, butRuth’s. He hesitates, butRuth’s. He hesitates, but Ruth doesn't pull away. HeRuth doesn't pull away. HeRuth doesn't pull away. He gently rests his hand againstgently rests his hand againstgently rests his hand against hers, finding silent comfort.hers, finding silent comfort.hers, finding silent comfort. Gazing at the headstoneGazing at the headstoneGazing at the headstone with a soft, tearful smile,with a soft, tearful smile,with a soft, tearful smile, Ruth said,Ruth said,Ruth said, “Look, Eigannel...“Look, Eigannel...“Look, Eigannel... Mommy and Daddy are bothMommy and Daddy are bothMommy and Daddy are both here with you today. Wehere with you today. Wehere with you today. We don't k

Some truths need evidence. Some truths arrive too late. But in the silence that followed,Some truths need evidence. Some truths arrive too late. But in the silence that followed,Some truths need evidence. Some truths arrive too late. But in the silence that followed, they finally found the peace they had spent so long fighting for. Justice had finallythey finally found the peace they had spent so long fighting for. Justice had finallythey finally found the peace they had spent so long fighting for. Justice had finally spoken, and at last, their boy could rest.spoken, and at last, their boy could rest.spoken, and at last, their boy could rest. Some truths need evidence. Some truths arrive too late. But in the silence that followed, they finally found the peace they had spent so long fighting for. Justice had finally spoken, and at last, their boy could rest.Written by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Ruth Olave Directed by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Photos by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Layout by: Nica Janine Mendoza Actors and Actresses: Eigannel's Mother Ruth Olave Ruth's Son Eigannel Bautista Eigannel's Teacher Cyril De Castro Ms. Alvarez' Lawyer Neil Dwayne Alvarez Witness Shane Ashley Briones Eigannel's Classmate Nica Janine Mendoza Eigannel's Classmate Sweet Audrey Rayos Judge Cleicia Adeline Dullesco Police Travis Payor Written by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Ruth Olave Directed by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Photos by: Shane Ashley Briones Nica Janine Mendoza Sweet Audrey Rayos Layout by: Nica Janine Mendoza Actors and Actresses: Eigannel's Mother Ruth Olave Ruth's Son Eigannel Bautista Eigannel's Teacher Cyril De Castro Ms. Alvarez' Lawyer Neil Dwayne Alvarez Witness Shane Ashley Briones Eigannel's Classmate Nica Janine Mendoza Eigannel's Classmate Sweet Audrey Rayos Judge Cleicia Adeline Dullesco Police Travis Payor