Love Bus Book 4: Chapter 7 — 1907 – The Origin

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The old book from Lola Luisa became our nightly ritual. Every evening after dinner, we would gather around the dining table. Mommy Brenda would carefully turn the brittle pages while Papa Franz explained what he understood. Bernadeth listened with wide eyes, asking questions nonstop. I mostly stayed quiet, absorbing everything. One night, Mommy Brenda read aloud the full story written on the early pages. It was the origin of everything.

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Manika‑Jamila 2: Chapter 6: Takot sa Pagbubuntis

I am Jamila. A doll. I do not feel fear, but I have seen it many times in Eloisa. The days became heavier. Eloisa’s belly was very large now. She moved slower and sometimes held her back while walking. One night, she came to the nursery looking worried. She picked me up and sat on the rocking chair.

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What We Inherit Without Knowing

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Minsan, hindi natin alam na may dala-dala tayo. Hindi yung mga lumang alahas o faded na pictures sa album. Yung mga tanong na hindi nasagot, yung mga katahimikang pinili ng mga lolo’t lola, at yung mga kwentong naiwan sa gitna. Ito ang mga bagay na namamana natin nang hindi natin nalalaman, hanggang sa isang araw, bigla na lang silang lumitaw sa ating mga desisyon, takot, at pangarap.

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Love Bus Book 4: Chapter 6 — Luisa’s Truth

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The discovery of the real curse book changed everything. Over the next few weeks, Mommy Brenda and Papa Franz slowly told us more of the truth. Lola Luisa, Cecilia’s twin sister, had been the guardian of the original book. Herminia stole it from Ricardo Sr. many years ago and entrusted it to Luisa, knowing she would protect it until the right time came. Kaya pala si Lola Luisa ang nagtago nito. Para sa atin. Para maputol ‘yung sumpa. Bernadeth said, listening with intense focus.

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Manika‑Jamila 2: Chapter 5: The Golden Thread

I am Jamila. A doll. I do not feel emotions, but I notice when humans do. This was the strongest day I have witnessed since my return. Eloisa was cleaning the nursery when she suddenly stopped. She lifted me and looked closely at my dress.

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