FORTY POINT FIVE DEGREES CELSIUS

the rain is coming down in torrents. the strong wind sets the guava tree into a manic movement against the roof. inside the house, however, it is calm and cozy warm. i lie curled up in a fetal position with my head on nanay's lap. she gently runs her fingers through my hair while singing sa lumang simbahan. her touch and her voice soothe me. i drift off ...

"jenggay ... jenggay." a light stroke on my right arm awakes me. i squint and i see kuya boying beaming. on his hands is a steaming big bowl. "nagluto ng lugaw ang nanay."