Original subtitles

Years before the pandemic

When we escaped to Baguio

I thought it was going to be a fresh start for him.

But now he’s in trouble again.

Rest.

He can't help but protect a friend in trouble.

Nothing pleases him more than planning our future together.

I have no doubt he loves me.

He can't lie.

But once he witnesses any kind of injustice, he loses it.

It’s such a pity.

I’ve grown fond of thrift shopping.

I'd gotten used to my rosy cheeks in the cold climate.

I'm sure he'll miss his job, and his horse at Wright Park.

That’s the way it goes.

After all, I love him and choose to be wherever he is.

This is now our third move.

It’s good that he agreed to stay with his mother and his brother.

- Hello, Ma. - JC?

Yes, we’re in Manila.

Thank goodness.

We’re fine. I just called to let you know we’ve arrived.

- Okay. Take care. - Yes.

- See you, Ma. - Yes.

Ma will be happy to meet you.

She will be happy to see you.

Let's go. One ride and we’re home.

You'll get to try Ma's cooking. It's the best.

Really?

The family reunites

JC!

- JC, my child. - Ma.

- I missed my youngest. - I miss you too Ma.

You look like a cowboy with this hat.

- I missed my youngest. - Ma, is breakfast available?

Of course. And it’s not leftovers from what I sell.

I cooked your favorites, smoked fish, and fried eggs.

- This is Maritess. - Hello.

Your wife?

We’re not married yet.

If you love each other and live together, you’re husband and wife.

- Blessings, Ma. - Bless you.

You’re so pretty.

You and my son make a beautiful couple.

Come, I’m sure you’re hungry.

How long have you been together?

Almost three years.

I like that. It means you know and truly love my son

because I know how difficult it is to live with him.

Ma, I thought we were a team.

- He’s not hard to live with. - I really like you.

Come, Maritess. Josie! My son JC is home!

How are you, Josie? Does my big brother have a Junior now?

We’re all process and no fruit.

It’s not time yet, as your brother would say.

I admire his discipline.

Maritess, meet Josie, my brother Pau’s wife.

Josie, Maritess. My girlfr… wife.

We’re also not married.

It’s not so popular these days.

Josie, text Pau that his brother is home.

So we can all eat together.

- Yes, Ma. - Sweetie…

- Are you okay? - Yes, ma’am.

Feel at home.

Come here, Queenie. JC, there’s someone I want you to meet.

Queenie, he’s the one I keep telling you about.

My youngest, your Big Brother JC.

Handsome, isn’t he? He looks just like his father.

- And she is Maritess. - Hello.

This is Queenie, my ward.

Go set the table.

You and Maritess will stay in my bed.

Queenie and I will sleep on the floor.

Let’s put up a curtain, so you have privacy.

We’ll take the floor.

No way! You’re our guests. Come, let’s eat.

- Excuse me! - Yes?

Gin and ten pesos worth of ice.

Here.

Get the last piece.

- Go for it! - I’m full.

- You sure you’re done, Josie? - Yes, Ma.

Queenie, help Josie clean up.

How do you make smoked fish taste so good?

I buy only the freshest ones.

- Bro! - Bro, I missed you. How are you?

I’m good. You?

I’m bigger than you now.

I bought us a drink. Shots after we eat.

As always.

Bro, this is my wife Maritess, though we’re not married yet.

Maritess, meet my favorite brother.

I’m your only brother, stupid.

That’s why I don’t have a choice.

Pau, eat.

Drinking comes first with these two.

Better booze than babes.

One, two.

- This is for you. - Thank you.

Eat up.

Queenie, I have something for you.

Your favorite chocolate.

Son, take my place.

- What’s that? - I have something to give you.

Why don’t you add this to your savings instead?

Stop it, Ma. That’s yours.

Thank you, son.

What’s the last piece still doing there?

That is so Filipino.

Josie, take care of Maritess, okay?

The devil’s shot.

Queenie and I are going to the market. Get some sleep after those shots, okay?

Yes, Ma. Take care.

Take care, Ma.

Being together like this makes me happy.

I missed you, my youngest.

Ma, no drama allowed in our family, remember?

Hey, Ma can control her tears now.

Except on Christmas and her birthday.

She misses you too much.

She hides it, though, because she knows I won’t give her gifts if there’s crying.

Enough drinking, go to sleep.

Let's go.

- Ma, bring me back some cassava cake. - Okay.

- Your turn. - There's still some left!

Ma found Queenie on the pavement around four years ago.

She was on her way home when she heard someone groaning.

She saw Queenie bleeding.

I’m not sure but I think her stepfather raped her.

She fought back, got beaten up.

She ran away and ended up here.

You’re not sure if she was raped?

She’s mute, but she can hear.

Maybe she stopped talking due to the trauma.

Her mind… it’s not all there.

Sometimes she acts like a child.

We couldn’t get the full story out of her.

We reported it to the police. Nothing came of it.

Social Welfare took her but she escaped to come back here.

So, Ma took her in.

She’s a good girl. Helps Ma.

I’m a has-been at the bar.

The customers like them young.

I’d be left with the older gays and aunties who prefer veterans like me

who do everything in bed while their lazy asses do nothing.

Why not find another job?

I still make good money. Especially when I dance.

And even if I’m a lot less popular now, I still get customers.

There’s too much horniness out there.

Once in a while I hit the jackpot and get someone with lots to spend.

I never doubted you. You always have a plan.

I’ve saved almost enough to redeem the land that Ma pawned.

Josie and I plan to go back to the province and live there.

I hope Ma comes with us.

Shot!

Pau asked me to quit my job at the bar when we moved in together.

I was fine with it. I never really liked it there.

But here I’m happy. I grew up not knowing my family.

And with Pau, I feel safe.

He knows how to keep his word.

You’re okay with his job as a stripper?

Why not? I used to be a go-go dancer myself.

I choose not to be choosy.

When are you settling down?

Maybe it’s time to get serious about your life.

I am serious.

In fact, I was already focused on the life Maritess and I were building in Baguio.

I thought we'd stay there for good. We're fine having a simple life.

Even if I smelled like a horse because of my job.

That job suits you, you’re hung like a horse!

But then…

You got into trouble again.

I can’t help it.

When someone takes advantage of someone, I see red

and I can’t think clearly.

You have a knack for making other people’s problems your own.

I helped a friend who got beaten up and was unable to defend himself.

You could’ve just brought him to the hospital.

But no, you had to avenge him.

And you stabbed a gang member in the process.

Good thing he survived.

A gang member, man!

If they went after you, you wouldn’t stand a chance.

Maritess said the same thing.

JC is a good man.

I love that he has principles, and he's honest.

He just can’t lie, not even if you put a gun to his head.

But he needs taking care of. He has mood swings.

And he lacks ambition.

Do you have a dream for yourself?

It used to be clear and simple.

To become a security guard.

SG?

But my father got killed when I was in sixth grade.

Killed?

He was a security guard for a warehouse. Someone robbed it.

His colleagues told him it’s safer to knock yourself out

or pretend to be unconscious than confront burglars head on.

My father decided to be a hero.

He always said his job was to protect his territory.

So he went looking for the thief

and got himself shot.

My father was decent. And loving.

What about your mother?

She died giving birth to me.

My father never remarried.

His life revolved around me.

We shared the same dreams.

But those vanished with his passing.

It wasn’t until I met JC that I started to dream again.

Come with me to the bar while you’re still looking for a job.

I don’t think I can do it, Bro.

You don’t have to do anything. Just observe.

Drinks on me.

You know my weakness.

Cheers!

Ma is getting old.

Help me give her a better life than this.

I want that for her too.

But before I can help anyone, I must help myself first.

I haven’t cried in a long time.

After I buried my father, I vowed to never shed a tear again.

I succeeded in doing that.

My next goal was to become fearless.

But every time I think of my life with JC,

I am frightened.

I know how to fight just to survive.

I want to learn how to fight to be happy.

- Go help them. - Check her out, man.

I got this.

Ma’am Celing, let me carry that for you.

- Thank you. - Her daughter is so hot.

Get in, Queenie.

Wait a second.

- No need, ma’am. - Take it.

Thanks!

Boss, take care of these two!

Our fare.

Two, sir.

What’s wrong, young lady?

I will help you.

Who did this to you? Come with me.

Please! Stop it!

Enough! I beg you, stop!

I beg you, stop.

Berto!

Berto!

My God!

Help us!

Help my husband!

I can go with you and help.

It’s okay. Queenie and I manage quite well.

You can help me with the laundry if you like.

Tonight?

Yes.

Why do you do it at night?

The water pressure is stronger.

Have you and JC made plans? I wish you’d stay for good.

I’ll start looking for a job. I used to work at a thrift shop in Baguio.

Do you know someone who might need a salesgirl?

I’ll ask around.

But you know what?

I’ve been saving up for a small space.

We can turn it into a cafeteria. You can help me run it.

I also want to look for a job. Anywhere.

We can look together.

Forget it, Josie.

Do as your husband says so there’s no trouble.

Trouble?

Pau doesn’t want me to work.

He wants me at home. He takes care of everything.

He’s so old-fashioned.

My man’s up.

Rise and shine, bro. Moon’s up.

Come on.

Good morning, everyone.

It’s almost nighttime, stupid.

Ma.

JC, your breath stinks.

There’s my cassava cake.

Want coffee with that?

Take a nap, Queenie. I’ll wake you up when it’s time to go.

Queenie, sleep on the bed. Don't sleep on the floor.

She can't lie down where a man has just slept.

It’s only Ma’s scent that she’s used to.

Eat something before your nap.

Come on.

Thank you.

Thank you, love.

Are we out of spoons?

Bro, come with me to the bar, okay?

Is it okay if I go with him?

I’m fine with everything as long as you steer clear of trouble.

I will.

But tell trouble to steer clear of me too.

- Good morning Ma. - Brush your teeth first.

Do you need money?

No. Pau's got me.

- Pau! - What?

I'm coming with you!

Jun!

Bro!

This is my brother JC. JC, Jun.

He’s quite a looker, Pau.

Are you going to be a rent boy too?

Easy, man. He’s new to this.

Newbies are always a hit with gays.

Ever done it with a gay?

No, I haven’t.

They pay a premium for that.

They have a nose for freshness.

Teach him the ropes.

I want him to work with us so I can keep an eye on him.

I'm an adult, but he treats me like a child!

Sorry, bro, my bad. I meant, so we can be together.

Whatever.

Pineapple juice for me.

Fresh milk for me. JC?

Soda.

Here you go, sir.

Thank you.

You have a client. The pineapple juice gave you away.

You know me so well. You're right.

What does pineapple juice have to do with that?

It increases the volume of sperm upon orgasm.

What?

Those who swallow love to choke on it.

They can’t get enough. It’s a good and cheap investment.

That’s my first tip for you.

Come with me.

My clients are a rich couple.

For three hours, we get eight thousand each.

Easy money, short time.

Game.

But before we go, let’s get up onstage and get some tips.

Hello bitches, bitchboys, and bitchballs!

Sorry to say bitchballs account for majority!

- George! - Bro!

Buddy! Bro!

This is JC, my brother.

Again, trans women are women,

trans men are men. So my sis here is a woman.

[chattering]

- Go ahead and entertain your client. - Seriously?

Smile!

Mama Chester!

Hello, son, hello!

This is my brother JC.

I sniff arrogance. That’s easy to solve.

Wanna work here?

I don’t know.

When you’re broke, you’ll know.

Do you carry a big stick?

Oh no, don’t act the virgin.

Some customers actually like it when you play hard to get.

But most find it a turn-off.

You, go backstage and get ready. The show’s about to start.

Stay here.

Don’t let Mama Chester fool you, she’s actually a sweetheart.

Did you have to scare him?

Are you okay?

Your brother is a nice guy.

But in this line of work, freshness trumps niceness.

You’re as fresh as a sunrise.

Pau is closer to sunset.

Can I start by sitting with customers and nothing more?

Just sit with customers? You mean like a welcome committee?

Oh no, in here, you have to be ready for anything.

I’m a connoisseur when it comes to men.

I sense that you’re a good guy at heart, but you have a temper.

Listen, this is important.

Not everyone here wants sex.

Some are here for more than that. Don’t forget this.

Okay, enjoy!

See you around.

How are you, sis?

That crown looks too heavy for your pretty little head.

It looks expensive, take good care of it. Okay, enjoy!

- Thank you for eating! - Two orders of rice and pork stew.

- Dine-in? - Yes, ma’am.

Here, ma’am.

Thank you.

Ma'am Celing.

Two macaroni soup with egg, take out.

Okay.

- Okay, got it. Yours is pork stew? - Yes, ma’am.

I once caught JC with a woman.

Must’ve been a big fight.

No, we’re not into that.

We talked.

He said it was lust, nothing more.

I said that if they were doing it regularly then it's a relationship.

He’s a man, he said.

Rub it a little and it gets hard.

And a real man, he said, doesn’t back down.

I wanted to hit him for giving me that bullshit reason.

What did you do?

JC listens as long as you’re calm.

I asked him if he liked it when I get hurt by his actions.

He said no.

I told him it would hurt me if he did it again.

He thought about it and looked at me.

I could see the sadness in his eyes.

He embraced me and then he said sorry.

He promised he’d never do it again.

Like a scene from a movie.

He’s both a man and a child. It’s not hard to read him.

Except for the mood swings.

How many boyfriends did you have before Pau?

He’s the only man I’ve loved.

Wow, really?

Yes, really.

And you’re the only one he’s loved?

The only woman?

- Yes. - Huh? What do you mean?

Hello, Mommy.

- You’re here early! - Of course!

- Nice to meet you. - I’ll leave you two here, okay?

Okay.

Enjoy, thank you.

Beer or hard?

Beer.

Waiter!

JC, you’re new here?

Yes, sir.

You’re Pau’s brother?

Yes, sir.

Are you as good as him?

I have no experience.

Are you saying that to jack up your price?

I’m reasonable. How much do you want?

One time, big time.

Sorry too. I’m also quite frank.

I’m not ready for what you want.

Thanks for the beer.

Excuse me, I’ll be back.

New?

What?

You’re a stripper?

No.

Not yet.

I’m Liza. I dance next door.

Did you know that you men are more expensive than us women?

Really?

Your star performer earns much more than our star performer.

Even a has-been male stripper makes more than we do.

Our has-beens get zero, zilch, nada.

I have a theory.

Gay men are richer.

Or they’re alone in life.

They have more disposable income

than straight men who are just as horny but have families to feed.

Also, gay men tend to be drama queens

and they’re willing to pay good money to keep up their fantasies.

Maybe that’s it.

We women are just itch removers basically.

We don’t exist outside of bed.

Do I talk too much?

I’m usually not talkative, actually the opposite.

Maybe I’m nervous because I like you.

That wasn’t a joke.

I’m the star performer next door. They pay me well.

Once in a while, I like to do the paying.

Game?

I’m not a rent boy.

Fine, let’s get you drunk first. What do you want to drink?

Aren’t they looking for you onstage?

I can have a beer.

Boss! Two beers.

Hey! Go home!

Don’t be afraid.

Ma'am.

Sir?

Pork stew, rice, soup.

Okay, sir.

He never pays. What did you expect, he’s a cop.

Let’s have some cassava cake before we sleep.

Should we wait for Ma and Queenie?

No.

They won’t be home 'til the crack of dawn.

What about Pau and JC?

That depends on how busy the bar is. If it’s slow they’ll be here by 4 or 5 AM.

Sometimes Pau would pick up Ma and Queenie.

If a customer takes him out,

he’ll be back much later.

Sometimes at lunchtime.

I hope you won’t mind me asking you this.

It's fine. We’re family.

What do you want to know?

How do you feel when he comes home at noon knowing he’s had sex with someone?

I don’t feel anything anymore.

It’s just a job.

Nothing that a shower and good soap can’t wash away.

It’s like it never happened.

Her name’s Maritess.

Pretty name.

Maria Teresa.

Sounds like a saint.

Maria Teresita.

Little saint.

She’s no saint,

but she’s kind.

Beautiful.

And she loves me.

She’s lucky to have you.

Liza’s not my real name.

It’s Rebecca.

Pretty nice too, right?

I was named after my grandmother, that’s why I don’t use it for work.

Why “Liza?"

When I was a little girl,

they shaved my head completely bald.

It was full of lice. Get it?

Don't test me.

Stop.

What’s wrong?

Sorry.

I made a promise to Maritess.

Did you get bored?

I’m okay.

A little spending money for you.

Thanks, bro.

I’ll pay you back when I find a job.

Jackass!

From the time we were kids, I’ve never collected

and you’ve never offered.

I know. Just had to say it. To lessen the guilt.

Let’s eat.

Ah!

Have pity on me, Pa. Stop.

Pa. Stop.

Have pity on me. Please stop…

Pa. Stop, please stop…

Please stop…

Queenie…

Queenie.

Queenie.

Queenie.

There, there.

It will be okay.

I haven’t had anything this good in a long time.

Maritess and I are on a tight budget.

She’s good at handling money.

That’s a good thing.

We need to save up.

Josie’s the same.

I want to grow our savings before I leave.

Where are you going?

You’re the first one I’m telling so keep it between us.

Remember Allan?

Your client who became your lover?

He’s in America, right?

We stayed in touch.

Josie doesn’t know.

He’s bringing me to the US to marry me so I can have a green card.

Hungry?

Have you eaten?

Yes.

Keep it, it's yours.

Give this to Ma.

I have some chocolate for Queenie.

Give it to her.

How was your day?

Your family is good to me.

Don’t you want us to stay?

You know me.

I won’t stop until I get even with those who’ve done me wrong.

And you know I’ll stop you.

Yes.

But you know that I’m just waiting for the right time to strike.

What do you think of Pau’s workplace?

It’s okay.

A different breed of people, for a change.

Do you want to work there?

Maybe.

Maybe.

I can do the chitchat and maybe a little dancing.

Get some sleep.

I’ll just take a bath.

Twilight

Happy birthday, Ma. Love you.

You need mouthwash.

I’ll give Ma her gift later.

For you, Queenie.

Buy a new dress, even if it's not your birthday.

Oh, also for you—

Bought it from someone at work.

It’s real silver.

So beautiful.

Come, Queenie.

Let me put it on you.

Hey! Haven’t you taken a bath yet?

- Get dressed JC, we’ll be late already. - Where’s Pau?

Five months of peace and quiet.

JC’s mother is right.

Don’t mind the noise, stay in your lane, focus on your own life and dreams

and you will get somewhere.

I’m happy here.

They’re my family now.

Ma's this close to getting her own space for the eatery.

Pau is about to redeem the family property in the province.

He and Josie have managed to save up quite a lot.

No wonder they don’t buy new things.

I’ve started saving too, ever since JC went to to work with Pau.

Not much though, because JC doesn’t go out with customers.

But JC brags he's the star dancer.

This is our gift to you!

Really?

We've paid half already!

Just one more year and it’s fully paid.

You've made so happy.

What about your plans?

Don’t worry. There’s enough left in our savings.

If you knew how much, you’d borrow money from us.

No way! Stop joking around.

Are Josie and Maritess okay with this?

Ma, this has been our plan all along.

Really?

JC and I contributed a little. Josie and Pau’s share is much bigger.

- My sons are the best! - We’re so happy for you.

Happy birthday, Ma.

Are you okay, bro? Did you have fun?

Bro, cheers.

I thought you’d avoid me.

Sorry about last time.

You left me hanging.

We can be friends.

We can be that, outside.

Here I want to be your customer. In case you change your mind.

There’s so many here. Want me to help you choose?

The chase thrills me.

I know you don’t go out with your customers.

Why can’t I be the exception?

Even though it's been used, mine still smells good, you know!

Hey, I’m still here.

I said, I’m a good customer.

I know you’re tired so I’ll do all the work.

I’m a man.

You make me horny.

But that’s all there is…

I’ll take that.

No feelings.

I just want to taste you.

We all taste the same.

Wrong.

I’m sure yours is sweeter.

Hey.

No need for that.

Take it. I still earn more than you do.

I’ll stop paying when you fall in love with me.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Hey asshole! What's your problem, huh?

Maritess!

JC is fighting with someone!

What?

Pau! Wake up!

Your brother’s in a fight.

Hold on.

Bro, stop it! Enough! Bro!

JC!

Screw you! Stop tripping on Queenie!

She’s a child! You pervert!

Let go of me! I’m defending our sister’s honor!

They have no respect. I’m defending Queenie.

I'm tired of all of this.

You always have an excuse.

Stop it!

- We were just talking. - Asshole!

So what if we find your sister sexy?

So what if we jack off thinking of her naked?

Let’s settle this at the town hall.

We’ll follow.

Is Pau home?

What’s this about, sir?

Josie?

I’m Allan.

Pau never mentioned it.

Sorry if I had to be the one to break it to you.

Don’t worry. You’re in our plans.

But first we have to get married in the US.

That’s allowed?

It’s legal there.

It’s the fastest way of getting Pau his papers.

Once that’s out of the way...

we’ll send for you and Ma.

Pau is leaving me?

Josie.

Only in the beginning.

How many months?

Two or three years.

Then we’ll get a divorce.

He’ll come back here and marry you.

Then he can bring you there.

Why are you taking Pau from us?

You’re using America to lure him.

Pau wants a new life.

So you get to marry him before I do.

Josie.

I hope you won’t deny him this chance at a better life.

Without your consent...

we’re not going through with it.

Have we been sharing Pau all this time?

Does he love you more than he loves me?

I can make sacrifices for Pau.

But if after all this I still end up losing him…

That’s something I can’t take.

[clamoring]

I apologize on behalf of my son. Please don’t file charges against him.

What the heck! Don’t plead with these assholes.

JC, shut up!

You’re just like your father.

I thought I was done with all of this.

I’m too old to be begging like this.

Bro, for her sake, calm down.

Listen for once!

For your medicines. I beg your forgiveness.

You’re a saint, Ma’am Celing, but your son is the devil.

I’m your mother.

No matter what you do, I will never get tired of helping you.

I’m really sorry.

I can’t control my temper.

Your father was the same.

No amount of pleading from me could tame him.

I couldn't keep an eye on him all the time.

Many times we had to move...

and each time he’d find someone to fight with.

Aren’t you tired of my son yet, Maritess?

I love him.

I’m old.

I pray for only one thing:

a quiet life for all of us, together.

This family is what keeps me going.

I’m sorry, Ma, but Pau has other plans.

What plans, Pau?

Allan is taking me to America.

Once my papers are fixed, I’ll file a petition for you and Josie.

Are you okay with this, Josie?

I’m trying my best to accept it.

Queenie, finish what I’m doing.

I left something at the store.

I didn’t know you drank.

My last drink was when we buried JC’s father.

Out of grief?

Maybe.

But also out of relief. I didn’t have to worry about him anymore.

I felt scared too.

Suddenly I was left alone to raise my sons.

I guess I’m not sure why anyone drinks.

My last drink was the first night JC and I became a couple.

We were at a bar.

I got so drunk that when JC got in a fight I couldn’t stop him.

Since then I swore off drinking.

You suddenly realized your calling as JC’s bodyguard.

His own body-guardian angel.

What’s your dream?

I love you, believe me.

I believe you.

But I also know you love him too.

That’s different.

Your other customers I don’t mind.

It’s only your body that we lend to them.

That’s all they want, that’s all they get.

With Allan I have to share your heart.

Don’t think of it that way.

How then?

We need him to improve our life.

I know you. You play fair.

Allan is only doing this because he can get what he wants from you.

What do you want me to do?

I won’t stop you.

Promise me we’ll grow old together.

I promise, we'll grow old together.

I want our children to have a better life than this.

- She was having a nightmare. - Queenie.

Queenie!

Ouch!

Damn that father of hers.

Does he even know the pain he’s caused Queenie?

If I ever see that son of a bitch…

Bro, calm down.

Queenie! Queenie! Calm down!

Calm down, Queenie.

What if you open early so you can come home before it gets late?

No, we’re sticking with dinner to early morning.

My regulars will miss me.

Pau has a point. Why not start with breakfast?

Breakfast time is slow!

These days people get by with only bread and coffee.

Ma, we’re here!

- Ma, we got you food warmers. - Really?

You did a great job with the place.

Food warmers? That’s so posh, Ma.

You’re all set!

JC insisted. I told him I don’t need those.

My customers are used to seeing my food in old pots and pans.

Looks yummy.

Move, move, we’re about to open!

Sir, the drugs must have been planted.

Jun is no addict. I’ve known him for a long time.

Maybe you’re a dealer too.

- No, sir. He’s a good kid! - Let’s go.

Jun?

Sir?

I know Jun is a user but I didn't know he's selling too.

They found half a kilo.

That’s enough to put him away until he rots.

One of his patrons is well connected. He’ll get out.

Thanks again. You’re the best.

Thank you Sir.

Freeloader. Just because he’s a cop.

That’s life. Let it go.

Have you ever tried giving him the bill?

The first time he ate my food,

he smiled at me and nodded. Then he left.

Shameless.

What if there’s a raid?

Raid what? Our thoroughly wholesome show?

Putting on a beauty pageant?

Staging a musical with skimpy costumes? We’re all PG here.

Poor guys?

Parental guidance, stupid.

What are you doing here? Go inside and put on a show!

I know you’re wondering why I agreed to Pau’s plan.

We each have our point of view.

You wouldn’t allow it if you were in my place.

How can one heart be shared equally?

I guess this life has taught me not to expect my fair share.

How can you be sure that he’ll go back to you?

Are you a hundred percent sure with JC?

No, but I’ve learned to fight for him.

Are you disappointed with me?

No, Josie. I get it.

You’re doing what you think you have to. We’re the same.

Sometimes I get tired.

I've been holding on to the illusion that Pau and I can have a normal life.

JC, wait.

I have customers asking about you.

They’ll double the bar fine and you can name your price, if you’ll do it with them.

Sorry, Mama Chester, I really don’t want to.

What if it’s a woman?

Still no.

Then why did you do it with that Liza next door?

She’s just a friend.

Friends with benefits?

- You going onstage tonight? - Yes, Mama Chester.

You dance so well.

They can’t get enough of you.

Too bad they can only watch, not taste. Except for Liza.

Mama Chester, how can we help Jun?

Don’t worry about him. He has connections.

How are you?

- I'm fine. - That's great. Okay, I'll go ahead.

Liza, wait.

Why?

I’m Maritess, JC’s partner.

So you’re the wife.

We’re not married.

To him, you’re his wife.

You’re not alone.

This is Josie.

Ah, Pau’s wife.

You’re both pretty.

And lucky. Both your husbands are yummy.

- You bitch! - Wait! Calm down!

Are you good now?

You got it out of your system. Now are we good?

JC is mine. Don’t you forget it.

Enough, let’s just go. Don’t get in a fight.

Don’t worry, Josie. We won’t make a scene.

Right, Maritess? Let’s not fight over JC.

I see men as playthings, just like me.

- We’re not the same. - Exactly.

You have no reason to fear. JC and I are done.

I doubt that you and I will be friends. But let’s not be enemies.

You’re lucky I’m not a drama queen like other women I know.

I’ll say this for your peace of mind: JC loves you.

But I won’t be the last woman who’ll find him attractive.

Let’s hope that next time he’ll be able to say no.

I have to go.

I have a regular customer waiting. He’s very generous.

She has a point.

She’s smooth.

Yes.

You wanna be friends with her, don’t you?

No way.

You're too tough!

So this is what it's like.

There they are.

Hi.

Have a seat.

- Hello. - Hi.

Mommy, it's been a while.

- This is JC's wife, Maritess. - Hi.

Wow.

Okay. Thank you.

Wow!

You’re doing well. This new spot is great.

Thanks to regulars like you.

Is there fried noodles and blood stew?

Of course!

- Four orders, please. - Okay.

It’s her first time in a gay bar.

She never had to reason to go to one. Until now.

Am I a good dancer?

The best. Seems like you’re the star here.

Of course!

Why does it look like you all have an erection?

They rub it before going onstage

so they’re always hard in front of the audience.

That bulge is distracting.

Is there a minimum size requirement?

What’s important is the illusion. Some use padding.

To excite the audience.

You know a lot about this.

I had the same questions on my first visit.

But you know more than anyone that my dick is not an illusion.

It’s the hardest reality.

I only know as much as Allan does.

I don’t know about you,

but I only come here for the entertainment.

Sleep well?

Are you hungry?

Let’s have a snack.

You are my baby girl.

I confronted Liza.

You just had to, didn’t you? Good thing there was no hair pulling.

It was a good talk.

I made it clear that you’re mine alone.

You know I am, completely. Are you still doubting it?

Prove it.

Bro, Josie, Allan!

Come on, let’s dance!

Come on Allan, let’s dance.

Josie, Allan. Join us!

Okay, wait here, I’ll join them.

Give it your best, hon!

Let’s hear it for Pau!

Show us what you can do!

Josie?

Are you okay?

When are you going back to America?

Two days from now.

When is Pau going?

His interview with the embassy is next month.

Once his visa gets approved, he can fly anytime.

Josie...

Is there something I can do to ease your worries?

Nothing. I’ll get used it.

Thank you for saying yes.

I don’t know if I should be jealous or grateful.

Thank you.

I know you will take care of him.

Let’s dance.

Let's go.

Let's go.

Join in!

I texted your brothers, they’re on their way.

I’ll get going. Take care.

Pau, go with Allan.

I can manage. Pau needs to rest.

Josie is right.

I’ll bring you home.

- Take care on your way home. - You too.

- Take care, bro. - Bye!

Take care, Allan. Bro, take care of that one.

- Bro, take care of Josie. - Take care!

We’re closed, there’s no more food—

Hey! What are you doing to my daughter? Stop that!

Sorry, I ran out of gas.

Bro, that’s stupid. Gasoline is so basic!

Here's the fare.

Sorry, sir.

- Drop it. We’re only three blocks away. - Let’s go.

Yeah, let’s walk.

- Balut! Duck egg! - Boss!

Balut!

- Want some, Boss? - Let’s buy some for Ma and Queenie.

- Hey! - Let's go! Hurry!

Hey!

- Ma? - Queenie?

Ma.

Ma? Ma!

Ma? Ma!

Queenie?

Queenie!

Queenie?

Queenie! What happened to you?

Ma…

Ma…

Shit!

JC?

Where are you going, JC?

Queenie, my child.

JC!

JC, stop!

- Come out, you sons of bitches! - Enough, JC…

Damn you monsters!

Stop!

- Damn you! - Enough.

JC, get a hold of yourself.

- Come out and face me! Now! - JC, please.

It will take a few weeks for her wounds to heal.

The trauma, however, is more serious.

Another doctor will guide you through it.

Thank you, Doc.

I’ll stay. Why don’t you go home and get some rest?

Where are JC and Pau?

They’re outside, talking to the police.

We caught Andrei.

Natan is still on the loose.

Do you have a lead?

We’re working on it.

Sorry about your sister. I hope she recovers soon.

Thank you, sir.

What are we going to do?

Both of them will pay for this.

They’ll catch Natan sooner or later.

I can’t get it out of my head, how they hurt Ma.

And what they did to Queenie.

They might get away with this.

Relax.

Don’t do anything to make things worse.

Pau...

Take this.

A little help.

Be strong.

I’m sorry about what happened.

Heart of darkness

- How’s it going? - I’m okay.

About time you got here. I’m so hungry.

- Are they still on the hunt for me? - You bet.

So be careful.

I think you should move to another hideout.

We re-open tomorrow.

I’ll stay here and take care of Queenie.

Ma is right.

It might cheer Queenie up if she’s at the eatery.

Love you, Ma.

Maritess, hand me your sister’s towel.

My son is extra sweet today.

I’m always sweet.

That’s because you were still breastfeeding when you already had teeth.

He only stopped after I rubbed my breasts with chili.

You’re exaggerating!

Congrats on the visa, bro. When’s your flight?

Allan still has to book it. He’s looking for the cheapest fare.

Thanks.

Exactly bro!

By some miracle, I was released from jail.

Welcome back, bro.

JC...

I bet you missed me.

How are you?

How long were you in jail?

A few days.

And then I went to paradise to rest.

Wait a second.

Who bailed you out?

I have the right connections.

Let’s drink!

Drinks on me later. It’ll be your sendoff.

My treat. Anyway you’re leaving soon.

- You’re the man! - Right? Drinks!

Where’s JC?

Backstage, maybe.

Ma, this is for you.

Pau wants you to have this so you can pay for the rest of your shop space.

Keep it…

He might need this for his trip.

Allan will take care of the trip.

What about our property back home?

Pau will save up for the property once he starts working in America.

A little extra.

Love you, Ma.

Thank you.

I want to be happy for Pau.

I want to think that this is the start of a better life for him.

But I might never see him again.

JC was away for years.

And now it’s his brother that’s leaving.

You asshole!

That was my sister, you piece of shit!

Hello JC?

Josie!

Is JC here?

What’s going on?

Why, Pau?

What happened?

Ma.

He’s not at the bar.

I don’t know where JC is.

Where’s Maritess?

- Get Maritess. - Ma.

Ma, it’s about JC…

Tell me.

- JC, he… - I said tell me!

JC.

JC.

- I’m sorry. I couldn’t help it. - I understand.

- We need to leave. - No. You stay.

You need me.

I’m going with you.

Are you having second thoughts about leaving because of what happened?

Shouldn’t it be the other way around? We need to get out of here.

As long as we’re poor, the problems will not end.

If we were better off, that wouldn’t have happened to Ma and Queenie.

JC would be here, safe.

America’s our last chance.

If that’s what you believe...

I’m with you.

I know you will.

Don’t worry.

I’ll take care of them.

It breaks my heart to know that JC needs me...

- I can’t do anything to help him. - I know.

Money.

I will save lots of money for him.

We can’t do anything for him right now.

Thank you.

I love you.

In a few years, our lives will be better.

What now?

I’m not turning myself in.

That’s why we should leave.

Listen to me. I’m begging you.

Please stay so you can help Ma.

Pau is leaving.

You’re strong.

They need you.

You need me.

I can manage by myself.

I’m scared for you.

Me too.

For the first time, I will live on my own.

I need to do this.

So I can change.

So I can be a better man.

I hope you’ll understand.

Don’t cry.

Don’t cry.

I might not have the strength I need.

I can hold it in.

I love you very much.

- I love you very much too. - Take care of yourself.

You too.

I’ll be in touch.

I’ll be the one to contact you.

It isn't easy to say goodbye to your loved one,

especially if you might never see them again.

My heart is in a lot of pain.

But JC is right.

I mustn’t cry.

There is no place for tears if I am to survive this war called life.

I will be strong.

I will get up when I fall.

I will heal when I am injured.

When I feel weak, I will find strength in the love of those around me.

I love JC.

His family is my family.

Like my father before me, I will protect my territory to the very end.

Ma.

I love you.

I’ll miss you.

Take care of yourself, son!

Hello, Allan?

Hello Pau?

Are you on your way to the airport?

Ma!

Pau?

What happened?

I’m sorry, Allan. I’m not going.

My family needs me.

I owe you.

You’ve spent a lot of money on this.

And I might have given you more problems because of my decision.

I’m already too much of a burden—

Drop me, I’ll understand.

Allan.

Are you crying?

Pau.

This is not the end, okay?

We will keep finding a way to help your family.

Thank you.

I love you.

Take care of yourself.

Change of plans.

America’s not going anywhere. It can wait.