IF THERE WAS anything that stayed the same after eight long months, maybe it was the fact that I still have no inclination to join a social gathering. I still don't like parties, just as much as I hate happy music. I hate a lot of things now. Or maybe because I just don't care. Av looked at me expectantly while driving, waiting for my answer. Sa kanya ako nakisabay pagkatapos nila akong sunduin ni Tyrone sa airport. Napabuntong hininga ako saka umiling. "I'm not really in the mood to have fun and party right now, Av. I'm sorry. Gusto ko sanang magpahinga sandali." I saw it dampened her mood. She was expecting me to say yes. Ngayon lang ulit kami nagkita pagkatapos ng apat na buwan—since she terminated my contract—at alam kong masaya siyang umuwi na ako ng Pilipinas. I was finally home,