A 45-year-old bachelor, using the alias Lito, is torn between two girlfriends, Anna and Mae, who are unaware of each other's existence in his life. He seeks advice from advice columnist Noy Kulas on whom to marry, as his family pressures him to settle down with Anna, but he prefers Mae due to her sense of humor and potential for having children.
The Dilemma
Lito has been in a two-year relationship with Anna, 35, who cannot conceive according to medical check-ups. He desires children to have someone to care for him in old age. Mae, also 35 and introduced by Anna, is a college classmate of Anna. Lito and Mae developed a secret romantic relationship after he confessed his feelings, and she reciprocated. They have been physically intimate with protection, fearing pregnancy.
Family Pressure and Personal Wishes
Lito's parents want him to marry Anna, but he is reluctant to wed a woman who cannot bear children. He prefers Mae but worries about hurting both women and destroying their friendship. He writes, “Mas ganahan ko nga si Mae ang akong pangasaw-on, apan unsaon kaha nako nga duna may masakitan?” (I prefer to marry Mae, but how can I when someone will get hurt?)
Noy Kulas's Advice
Noy Kulas advises Lito to leave both women to avoid further pain. He states, “Biyai silang duha kon pulos man lang sila masakitan. Wa kay pilion nilang duha.” (Leave them both if they will only be hurt. You have no choice between them.) He emphasizes that Lito has already damaged their friendship by entering a relationship with both. Noy Kulas also notes that fertility should not be the sole basis for marriage, as Lito himself may be infertile. He recommends speaking to each woman separately, starting with Anna, and being honest about his intentions, while telling Mae he cannot destroy their friendship. Ultimately, Noy Kulas concludes, “Wa nilang duha ang imong pilion.” (You choose neither of them.)
