The Scorned Wife

The Scorned Wife
Prologue
She's my wife.
I married her because... well, I had to. Pagtanaw ko ng utang na loob sa ama niya.
It was okay. Hindi naman naging pangit o masama ang pagsasama namin.
Nirerespeto ko siya. Not because I love her. It's because she's my wife.
Isa pa, parang hindi naman tama na magloko pa ko dahil sa kalagayan niya.
'Take care of my daughter. Alam kong mahirap pero umaasa ako sa'yo.'
Words from her father.
The thing is... she's special. Hindi ung mga special child o ano. She's normal pero
mahina ang functioning ng brain.
Anyways, we were happy kahit hindi niya nagagampanan ang papel bilang asawa ko. Our
relationship revolves around respect.
Without her consent, I couldn't do anything sexual with her. Okay lang sa'kin.
Nirerespeto ko nga diba?
Kaso lang aabot pala ako sa puntong hindi ko na kaya. Yung tipong magagamit ko ang
salitang I'm just a man with needs.
Man! What a dïck move!
Pinagsisihan ko naman 'yon. Ang kaso lang, do'n nagbago ang lahat.
I discovered something about her. Something dark. I should've been there. Dapat
kasama niya 'ko. Pero nasa'n ako? Nasa birthday party ng kapatid niya habang siya
nasa bahay lamang at nasasaktan.
Nasa bahay niya...
I went home to see her but... I was too late.
Nangyari na ang lahat.
Nasira.
Nawala.
My prayers got answered. She went back but completely different. Talaga nga
palang...
Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.
-------
Matagal pa po ito. Nilagay ko lang baka kasi mawala sa isip ko. As in matagal pa.
Magtatanong narin ako....

Gusto niyo ba ng madalas na update pero maikli?
Mahabang chapter pero mga once a week na update?
Para to sa lahat ng stories ko.

Chapter 1
GUIDE TO READING THROUGHOUT THE STORY :
Full of twist. Full of questions. Common sense is the key.
TANAW ko mula sa binta ang unti unting pagbabago ng tanawin. It only indicates that
the plane is almost ready to land. Hindi nga ako nagkamali dahil ilang segundo pa
ang nakalipas nang mag announce ang piloto na malapit na kaming lumapag.
It has been a long time.
Dalawang taon at kalahati na ang nakakaraan ng umalis ako. I'm a lawyer and is
happy to be one but I also want to serve my country.
I left to join the military. Gusto ko talagang sumali sa militar kahit noong bata
pa ako. I was sure that this would be my future. Na dito ako nababagsak. Ang kaso
lang, ayaw ni mommy.
Wala daw mangyayari sa'kin sa pag susundalo ko. Mamamatay lang daw ako.
So like my dad, I became Atty. Osias Blaise Alcazar, a business corporate law
attorney.
I'm also proud to be one. It's like my second calling but the calling to be a
soldier is quite louder. Kaya sa huli ay hindi ako nagpapigil kay mommy at nag
sign-up sa militar.
Gano'n na rin siguro talaga kapag alam mo na kung anong gusto mong gawin sa buhay.
Kahit sino ay walang makakapigil sa'yo.
Isang taon ang naging training tapos sinabak kami sa mga medical at rescue missions
sa mindanao. Nagpapasalamat ako at hindi naman gaanong kadelikado. Hindi kasi ako
na assign bilang isa sa mga frontman. Nasa back-up team ako.
Mabuti narin 'yon dahil kung hindi, baka mabyuda ng maaga ang asawa ko.
I can't help but to smile with that thoughts. Kamusta na kaya siya? Is she doing
fine? Inaasikaso kaya siya do'n ng maayos?
Tatlong buwan matapos kaming ikasal ay sumabak na ko sa pagiging militar. I had a

feeling that it's gonna be a once in a lifetime shot that's why I didn't put any
second thought.
Alam kong iiwan ko siya kaya lang ito talaga ang gusto ko. Alam ko namang aalagaan
siya ng mga kasama niya sa bahay.
We got married because his father asked me to. Malapit ako kay Don Leticio San
Roman. Malaki rin ang utang na loob ko sa kanya dahil siya ang nagmentor sa'kin at
ngayon ay sa kanya ako nagtratrabaho. I looked up to him as my second father that's
why I accepted the offer.
Him and my father were friends. Their fathers were too and also their fathers'
fathers. Iniwan ni Don Leticio ang probinsiya para magtayo ng kumpanya sa Manila
and my father became his lawyer. Sadly, my father died months after I graduated
from college in a car accident.
Nag announce ulit na nakalapag na ang eroplano. Isa isang nagtayuan ang lahat at
kinuha ang kanya kanyang mga gamit.
Inayos ko ang aking army cap at tumayo narin. I never had time to change clothes
since I was eager to come home.
I may not say it but a part of me misses my wife. Specially those big brown eyes
with gold and grey specks.
We may not got married out of love but I think trust and respect are most important
things in a relationship.
Malayo palang ako ay tanaw ko na ang isang babaeng naghihintay mula sa labas ng
arriving area. She was wearing a jeans shorts, sneakers and a fitted blouse.
She was jumping a bit with her hands clasped above her chest making her high
ponytail swayed up and down, eyes searching through the crowd of arriving
passengers.
Someone's excited to see me.
Agad akong napangiti sa naisip. The moment she saw me, she stopped and gasped
before smiling broadly. She squealed and tapped the woman beside her then pointing
at me. Her mom looked at my direction.
Tulak tulak ko ang cart at kumaway. Kumaway siya pabalik at nagtatalon sa tuwa.
Hatalang excited na makalabas ako sa arriving area.
Pagkalabas ko ay agad siyang tumakbo. She jumped, wrapping her arms and legs around
me while I catch her.
"I miss you." She whispered.
"I miss you too, Penelope." I said back.
Biglang umugong ang palakpakan sa buong paligid. Nang lumingon ako, nakatingin
sa'min halos lahat ng tao at nagpapalakpakan. May mga himihiyaw ay sumisigaw ng
kiss.
She giggled and I put her down. "Kiss daw, Oz."
"Alam mong ayoko ng mga nicknames diba?"
She rolled her eyes. "I know. But do you see me care?" I shook my head and smiled.
Same old Penelope. "Now for the kiss..." she said playfully.
"Fine. But no more nicknames." I pretended not to like it but dipped lower and
kissed her on the cheeks, hugging her one last time.
Humiwalay ako nang mapansin ko ang isang babae malapit sa'min. "Kamusta, mama?"
Lumapit ako at hinalikan siya sa pisngi. She's the mother of my wife. My mom's
having a vacation and I'll see her next week.
She gave me a comforting smile before replying. "I'm fine, hijo. Welcome back..."
"Thanks, ma." She smiled, causing the excess skin beside her eyes be prominent.
She's old but not that old. I think she's on her early forties. Nonetheless, she's
still glowing and beautiful.
"So... where is she?" Nawala ang ngiti niya at bumuntong hininga na parang bagod.
"She's there, hijo." She pointed where the seats were. "It's almost impossible to
convince her earlier."
"She's so hardheaded. Ako nang kukuha sa kanya." Penelope offered.
Umiling ako. "Huwag na... I'll go get her."
Umalis ako at naglakad sa palapit sa nga upuan. Nilibot ko ang mga mata ko na
dumapo sa babaeng tahimik na nakaupo sa gilid malapit sa gitna. Her heads down,
looking at her hands playing with her long skirt. I moved my feet and walked to
her.
Lumuhod ako sa gilid niya. It was easy because she was sitting at the end of the
seat made of metal. I knew she noticed me because her hands stopped for a while
before continuing. She kept her gaze where it was and shivered a bit.
"Cuddle cakes?" She didn't respond. "I'm back, cuddle cakes." Hinawakan ko ang
kamay niya. I carefully held her chin with my other hand and made her face me.
"Nandito na ko." Malumanay at malambing kong sabi.
Dahan dahan siyang tumingin sa'kin mula sa sahig. Her beautiful eyes staring at me.
"Hello... Did you miss me?"
"B-Blakey?"
I smiled widely. "I'm here finally." I stood up, carefully pulling her with me so
she does the same.
By the time she was on her feet, I held her close and hugged her tight. Medyo
maliit siya sa height kong 5'11 kaya napaangat ang paa niya sa lupa nang
pagpantayin ko ang mga mukha namin.
"I miss you..." I said truthfully.
"N-na miss din... k-kita." Garalgal at mabagal niyang bulong.
Her speech didn't improve. Ang sabi Penelope ay nagpa speech therapy siya nung wala
ako pero walang nagbago. She still talks the same. It happened because of an
accident. Her vocal cords got damaged. She also has a small scar on the side of her
left brow but somehow, it made her look sexy.
My smile got broader at mabilis na dinampian ng halik ang labi niya.
She blushed and looked down. "Don't be shy, cuddle cakes. Normal lang na halikan ko
ang asawa ko, diba?"
Nahihiya siyang tumango. My wife maybe timid and shy but for me, that's adorable.
Lalo na 'pag pinamumulanan siya ng mukha. My wife's innocence is cute.
"A-alis ka... u-ulit?"

"Kararating ko lang, eh. Gusto mo bang umalis na ko agad?" How could I leave her if
she's looking at me with pleading eyes?
She frowned and shook her head. "D-don't like." Her upper lip tucked to a pout. I
can't seem to stop smiling whenever I see her like that. I want to kiss her pero
pinigilan ko ang sarili ko. I know my limits.
"Then I'm not going anywhere. I'll stay here with you."
"O-okay..." I placed a chaste kiss on the tip of her nose which earned me an almost
silent giggle from her.
"Osias, let's go home. It's almost dinner time." Narinig kong sabi ni mama Alicia.
Binaba ko si Lee at inayos muna ang tumabinging damit niya bago ko hinarap si mama
na katabi si Penelope.
"I was planning to take Lee out for dinner."
"Ganu'n ba? Pero sayang naman ang pinahanda namin."
"Mom's right. The foods are already prepared. Sa susunod mo na ilabas si Leanna."
Hindi na 'ko kumontra pa. Tumango ako at hinawakan ang kamay ng tahimik kong asawa.
"Gusto mo bang mamasyal bukas, Lee?"
Tumango siya habang nanatiling nakayuko. A smile came back to my lips and kissed
her forehead.
Naghihintay na si Mang Rico sa labas. Agad niyang binuksan ang pinto ng backseat.
Kinausap ko muna siya at kinamusta habang pumapasok si mama kasunod si Penelope.

Nagpasalamat ako at iginayak nang pumasok si Lee sa loob.
"B-Blakey..." She whispered, not letting go of my hand. Parang takut na takot

siyang bitawan ito at iwan ko.
"Lilipat lang ako sa harap, Lee."
I heard someone snorted and saw Penelope rolling her eyes.
"Ang akala ko ba no nicknames? E bakit siya?"
"Ummm... Baka kasi asawa ko siya? That's why she's special." Napailing nalang ako.
"Am I right cuddle cakes?"
Hindi natanggal ang pangamba sa mga mata niya. It makes me wonder why...
"Tama na 'yan, Osias at baka lumamig na ang pagkain. Stop being clingy, Leanna.
He'll just seat on the front." Sita ni mama.
She was hesitant at first but did it eventually. Pumunta at umupo na ko sa harap.
Habang nasa byahe ay walang tigil sa pagtatanong si Penelope. Kagaya dati, tahimik
lang ang aking asawa sa likod at nakayuko. Some of her loose hair draped over her
face. Gusto kong hawiin ang mga 'yon.
She was playing with her skirt again. Ganyan ang gawain niya lagi.
Sometimes she acts like a child. Innocent to her surroundings even though she's
already 20. Nakalimutan ko kung anong tawag sa sakit niya pero ang sabi daw ng
doktor ay hindi na tumuloy sa pagdevelop ang utak niya. Nahihirapan din siyang
makaintindi at unawain ang ibang bagay.
That's the reason she was homeschooled before. Nahinto 'yon dahil ang sabi ni mama
ay wala nang pag-asa. Hindi daw talaga siya makaintindi kaya sumuko ang mga tutor
niya.
It was kinda sad because she has a brain of a ten-year old kid but that's fine.
Nandito na naman ako. I'll make sure to make everything okay for her.
Hinanap ko si Don Leticio nung kumakain kami. Ang sabi ni mama Alicia ay bukas ng
gabi pa ang balik niya mula sa business trip.
Napansin ko ang pagtaas ng kilay ni Penelope nang lagyan ko ng pagkain ang plato ni
Lee. Nang makita niya ko ay ngumiti lang siya.
When the night has ended for the day, I pulled my wife to our room. Pumunta na rin
sa kani-kanilang kwarto si mama at Penelope.
When I left, I wanted my wife to have a company kaya nung sinabi ni Penelope na
pwedeng dito na siya tumira muna, pumayag na 'ko. Dito din natutulog si mama kapag
nasa business trip si papa.
"Are you okay there, Lee?" Napatingin ako sa pinto ng banyo. Binaba ko ang laylayan
ng sandong kasusuot lang at pumunta sa tapat ng pinto.
"Do you need help, cuddle cakes?" Nagsimula na kong mag-alala ng kumatok ako at
walang sumagot.
I was about to open it but it was opened from the other side.
My shy little wife was standing there with a pale pink hello kitty long sleeved
night gown. Her outfit was so cute on her that it made me smile. Though I wish she
was looking at me and not on the floor.
I held her hand and guide her to the bed. Inalis ko saglit ang covers at pinahiga
siya. I followed after.
Naramdaman ko siyang nanginig nang yakapin ko siya patalikod. I could feel that
she's scared.
"It's okay, Lee... I'm here." I cooed and kissed her shoulder. Ako naman ang
natigilan nang bumulong siya. She whispered a name that made me angry a little.
Hindi ko namalayan na nakubabawan ko na siya. "Whispering a man's name while I'm

here hugging you? Who is he my little wife?"
Who the hell is he? Maybe the guy she likes? No way! I'm her husband! There should
be no other guys than me!
Salubong ang kilay kong nakatingin sa kanya pero siya, parang hindi alam kung anong
nangyayari. She blinked once, twice. Her beautiful pools of brown with strikes of
gold are alluring. Bigla akong nag-init.
My head slowly going lower. My lips found their way to the base of her neck. I
heard her whimper when I kept giving her feathery kissed on her neck.
"O-osi." Bulong niya. Her sweet voice just urged me to continue.
I kissed her jaw, the side of earlobe and on every inch of skin my lips could find.
Her low whimpers sounded like moans to me, making the fire grow within me.
Naramdaman ko ang mahinang pagtulak niya. "C'mon my little wife, sabihin mo kung
sino siya o hindi ako titigil." Lumipat ako sa kabilang gilid ng leeg niya.
Nibbling, kissing and a little bit of sucking. Her skin was so soft and sweet like
a flower and its nectar. It was addicting. And I was the unlucky man who got lured
to its delightful taste.
"Osi!" Napatigil ako bigla sa gulat nang sumigaw siya. She pushed me and I was
stunned, remained looking at her while she scurried and moved to the other side of
the room.
Kinuha niya ang isang malaking stuffed bunny. Bumangon ako at umupo sa gilid ng
kama. I sighed and ran my palm on my face.
Almost three years of celebating? God, this is torture... Hanggang kelan kaya 'to?
"O-Osi..." Iniharap niya sa'kin ang hawak. "Bla...key... O-Osi..." Turo niya sa'kin
at sa hawak habang bahagyang nakangiti.
Napailing ako at napangiti. "Come here, cuddle cakes." Lumapit siya at kinuha ko
ang stuffed bunny. "Hindi mo na kailangan si Osi. I'm here now so let's go to
sleep."
She frowned and pouted. God! She's so cute. Pinatong ko si Osi sa tabi ng lamp.
Humiga na kami ay nagsimula na siyang sumiksik sa'kin. Her one arm wrapped on my
waist.
I called her cuddle cakes because she's a cuddle monster before sleeping. Para
siyang baby koala na nakakapit sa nanay.
Bakit nakalimutan kong Osi nga pala ang pangalan ng stuffed bunny na ako mismo ang
nagbigay. Damn, I'm so stupid.
Naalimpungatan ako nang maramdaman ang paggalaw niya. Pagdilat ko ay nakita ko

siyang lumabas.
I was groggy when I stood up to follow her. Bumaba siya ay chineck ang lock ng
pinto. She turned the lock open then closed it again. After than, she checked on
the windows.
"Lee?" Lumingon siya at yumuko nang makita ako. "Tara na? Naka-lock na silang
lahat."
Nahihiya siyang tumango at lumapit sa'kin. Magkahawak kaming bumalik sa kwarto.
Maya maya ay bumangon na naman siya at inulit ang ginawa. Ilang beses siyang
pabalik balik. Double checking the doors and windows if locked while I followed and
just looked at her.
Another special thing about her is that she has obsessive-compulsive disorder. Bata
palang siya ay meron na siyang ganyan.
Nakapangalumbaba ako sa railing ng hagdan habang pinagmamasdan siyang buksan at

isara ang pinto. I think it's the fifth time that we come down here.
Pag-akyat ulit namin ay ang pintuan at mga bintana ng kwarto ang tinignan niya. She
even checked the windows in the bathroom.
Pahikab hikab na siya habang naglalakad palabas ng banyo. She's so sleepy that she
might just fall and sleep any moment now. Not wanting that to happen, I stood up
from sitting on the bed and carry her.
She's already asleep when I put her down. I fixed the covers and she automatically
moved to cuddle.
"Good night, my innocent little wife..." I whispered and kissed her forehead before
letting the drowsiness took me to sleep.
Chapter 2
Full of twists. Full of questions. Common sense is the key.
LEE wasn't beside me when I woke up. Siguro ay sa sobrang pagod at antok ko ay
hindi ko namalayan ang pag-alis niya. I did all my morning rituals- wash my face,
brush my teeth and change clothes, then went down to find Lee and breakfast.
Naabutan ko siyang nakaupo, kaharap si mama, handa nang kumain habang nilalagay na
ni Penelope at Manang Josie ang mga pagkain.
"Good morning!" Masiglang bati ni Penelope sa'kin habang nilalapag ang isang bowl
ng kanin.
"Good morning, Penelope. Good morning, mama." Bumati rin siya pabalik sa'kin.
"Good morning, hijo. How's your sleep?"
"Mahimbing naman po, ma." Iniisip niya siguro na pinuyat ako ni Lee kakabangon para
lang i-check ang mga locks ng mga pintuan at bintana.
Umupo ako sa tabi ng aking asawa na nakayuko na naman at pinaglalaruan ang palda
niya. Nakapagpalit na rin siya ng damit. A simple long sleeved and long skirt.
Wrapping my arm around her shoulder, I pulled her close, bend down and kissed her
cheeks.
"Magandang umaga, cuddle cakes. Bakit di mo ko ginising?" Nanatili siyang tahimik.

"Sa'n ang morning kiss ko, hmm?"
"Good morning!" lahat kami maliban kay Lee ay napalingon sa pintuan.
"Dad!" masayang sigaw ni Penelope.
Agad na tumayo si mama at nilapitan ang asawa na sinalubong siya ng yakap. Lumapit
na rin si Penelope at sumali sa dalawa. Don Leticio gave them both kisses on their
cheeks and the whole place was filled with smiles, giggles and laughters.
My wife on the other hand remained quiet, only stealing glances on them. Like she
was afraid to get caught. Kinuha ko ang kamay niya patayo. I felt hesitation in her
actions.
"Halika na, Lee. Batiin natin ang daddy mo." Wala siyang nagawa ng hilain ko siya
ng may pag-iingat.
Tumayo kami malapit sa tatlong masayang nag-uusap at nagbabatian.
The smile on Don Leticio's face got wider upon seeing her daughter who still
remained quiet beside me. Lumayo si mama at Penelope kay Don Leticio.
Don Leticio is a well known business magnate. He's cold and brutal when it comes to
business pero agad nawawala 'yon pagdating sa pamilya niya.
He stood over me by two inches with his 6'1 which adds to his scary persona. He's
in his mid forties pero mukha parin siyang nada thirties lang dahil sa tindig ng
katawan niya. Kahit ang buhok niya ay walang kaputi puti.
Namatay ang asawa niya noong 6 years old palang si Lee tapos after two years ay
napangasawa niya si mama Alicia who already had Penelope.
"Leanna, anak?" Malambing na tawag ni Don Leticio. "Can I get a hug from you,
darling?"
Don Leticio opened his arms wide, waiting for Lee to embrace him. Tumingin si Lee
sa kanya, her shivering lower lip trapped between her teeth, her eyes glittered
with tears, threatening to fall.
Inilapat ko ang palad ko sa kanyang likod at bahagyang tinulak. Don Leticio gave me
a smile of appreciation that I answered with a nod.
It started with a single, uncertain step until she came running to the open arms of
her father with tears.
"I miss...y-you...daddy."
"Oh, my sweet darling..." Mahigpit na niyakap ni Don Leticio ang anak. He hugged
her like she was his lifeline while she cried in his arms. "I miss you so, so
much."
The perfect picture of a loving father who loves and misses her precious daughter.
Since the beginning, Don Leticio's love for his daughter is beyond comparable. When
his wife, Lee's mother died, Lee was the only one he got. Lahat ng pangungulila sa
asawa niya ay binuhos niya sa pag-aalaga sa kanyang anak. He played the
responsibility of being both a father and a mother. Balancing his time for business
and attentive guardian.
Ang kaso, sa paglaki at paglaki ng negosyo niya ay siyang pagliit ng oras nito para
sa anak. Good thing that he found mama Alicia to help him.
"Did you bring home something for me, dad?" Penelope said, cutting the heartwarming
reunion of the two.
Putting Lee on her feet, he turned to Penelope. "Of course. I have dresses, bags,
shoes and jewelries for both you and Alicia." Pagkasabi niya no'n ay saktong
nagdatingan ang mga katulong dala dala ang mga bags galing Paris.
Penelope grinned like a happy child excited to open gifts on her birthday and moved
to get them but stopped when mama called her back.
"Mamaya na 'yan at kumain muna tayo. Honey, c'mon. Osias, dalhin mo na si Leanna."
Nauna na silang bumalik sa kani kanilang upuan. Don Leticio was lovingly looking
and smiling down on Lee as he wipes her tears with his thumbs.
"I have a special gift for you, darling." Sabi niya bago maglabas ng isang maliit
na box sa inside pocket ng coat niya. "This was made customized only for you. I
hired the best Jeweler in Paris to make this."
Not taking her eyes off his father, she creased her forehead in confusion. Si Don
Leticio naman ay nakangiti habang nilalabas ang lamang ng kahon.
It was a round silver necklace with gold circle in the middle. May magkakapatong na
puso ang nakalagay sa gitna ng gintong bahagi at ang salitang 'Dad' sa ibaba habang
'forever in my heart' naman sa silver.
Nakatingin lang ko sa mag-ama habang kinakabit niya sa leeg ang regalo niya. Agad
itong sinuri ni Lee.
"I have the same one. So we are both forever in each others hearts no matter the
distance between us." Don Leticio showed the necklace he's wearing. Kamukha niya
ang kay Lee kaso all silver at 'my daughter' ang nakalagay imbes na dad. "I love
you, my daughter." He added.
My wife got her eyes teary again and launched herself to hug her father. She
whimpered. Ayaw ko siyang nakikitang umiiyak pero mga luha 'yan ng kaligayahan kaya
hindi ko maiwasang makaramdam ng saya gaya niya.
Everything I see in them right now swelled my heart.
Magiging ganito rin kaya akong kabuting ama kapag nagkaroon na 'ko ng anak?
Humayo kami sa hapag kainan nang tawagin ulit kami ni Mama. Nasa harap ko si
Penelope na katabi mama. Don Leticio took the head of the table.
Maya't maya ang mga tanong na binabato sa'ming dalawa ni Don Leticio sina mama.
Nagkwekwento ako pero hindi ko nakakalimutang pagsilbihan ang asawa ko. I noticed
that she got thinner so I made sure that her plate and cup were never empty. Okay
lang kahit may matira siya.
"Why don't we have a welcome party for you and dad? Let's celebrate! O kaya mag out
of town tayo this weekend. What can you guys say?" Suwestyon ni Penelope.
"That's a great idea, Pen. Ikaw honey? Anong sa tingin mo?"
Parang nag-iisip pa si Don Leticio kaya ako muna ang nagsalita.
"Actually I was planning to take Lee out this weekend. Since babalik na 'ko sa
trabaho next week, gusto sanang mag focus muna sa asawa ko habang wala pa 'kong
ginagawa. Yung kaming dalawa lang."
"She's not a kid anymore, Ozi. Pwede mo naman siyang alagaan habang nagbabakasyon
tayo o kaya sa ibang araw nalang kayo lumabas."
Binaliwala ko ang pagkailang sa pagtawag niya sa'kin at nagsalita muli. "I know
that pero gusto kong bumawi sa dalawang taon na nawala ako sa tabi niya. Nung mga
panahong dapat katabi at kasama niya ang asawa niya. I want to take care of her
like a good husband should."
"Maybe dad could convince you." She smiled sweetly to him who's currently sipping
water.
"That's right..." He paused, putting the glass down while Penelope smiles turned
into a victorious one.
"I told you so..."
"I'm sorry Pen but Osias is right. Mas mabuting magkasama muna silang mag-asawa.
Give them time to spend for each other. Iba parin kapag solong oras nilang dalawa
kesa kasama ang iba."
"But, dad..."
"Don't worry. We have more time to have a family vacation sa ngayon ay dapat
pagtuunan ni Osias ng pansin ang kanyang may bahay."
She stopped after that and faced her food. Napailing nalang ako dahil sa
pagbusangot ng mukha niya.
Magkakilala ang pamilya namin kaya bata palang ay magkaibigan na kami ni Penelope.
Kaibigan ko na siya bago ko nakilala si Lee pero hindi ko alam kung bakit kahit
siya ay ayokong tinatawag ako sa kahit anong nick name. She's a bit of a diva pero
masayahin 'yan at maalaga. She likes to cook and girly stuffs.
She's a chef. A famous one. Sa sobrang galing niya ay mayroon siyang sariling
cooking show dati. It ended and was replaced by a showbiz show that she now hosted.
Mula sa pagiging chef ay naging host siya.
She became more famous two years ago until now in the age of 22. Her long chocolate
brown, hair framed her face with alluring but strict eyes, pointed nose and
naturally pink lips. Not to mention her model like legs and stunning body. She's
gorgeous all in all. That's why last year, she was in a cover of a lifestyle
magazine.
Bumaling agad ako kay Lee pag alis nila mama. Si Penelope ay may hosting ngayon at
kailangan naring magpahinga ng Don.
Sinabi kong mag ayos na siya dahil aalis kami. Gusto kong lumabas ngayon kasama ang
aking asawa. Balak ko siyang dalhin sa mall para maggala. She was quiet when I told
her that but I could see that she was excited. Paakyat na kami nang makita kong
papabalik si Penelope.
"Ang akala ko may hosting ka?"
"Hindi naman live. Taping lang kaya inurong ang schedule. That means I still have a
couple of hours of free time."
"Would you mind helping Lee to prepare? Aalis kasi kami."
"Sure. Why not? But you owe me, okay?" She winked.
"Okay." I chuckled.
Do'n ako naligo sa katabing guestroom habang siya sa kwarto namin. Dala ko na ang
mga pamalit ko.
Pagkabalik ko sa kwarto namin ay wala na sila do'n. Marahil ay nasa kwarto sila ni
Penelope.
Pagbaba ko ay nakasalubong ko si Manang Josie. Ang sabi niya nasa may garden na daw
sila. Ang bilis naman nila.
I immediately spotted them. Kumunot ang noo ko sa nakita. Lee was sitting near the
window with her head down while Penelope stood in front of her, hand raised.
Nakatalikod siya sa'kin.
"Penelope?" Ang akala ko ay mababali ang leeg niya sa biglaang pagharap sa'kin.
"What are you doing?"
"Oh, good. You're here. Here she is. Now, tell me what you think?" Tinignan ko si
Lee na nanatiling nakayuko.
"She's beautiful." Napangiti ako sa ayos niya. She's wearing a red sleeved dress na
may ribbon palibot sa bewang niya. Tinernuhan ito ng pulang sapatos at puting
medyas.
It was simple and it showed innocence but she was so dämn beautiful with her hair
and light make-up. The thought of her hitting my wife disappeared and was replaced
by other bigger problem. Siguradong mapapaaway ako kapag nalingat sa kanya. I think
I need to glue myself to her.
"O sige na love birds. Shoo!" She said crossing her arms over her chest before
doing that shooing act with her hand.
"Fine, fine. We're leaving. C'mon, cuddle cakes."
"That pet name is so eew!"
"'Let's see who's laughing kapag ikaw nakahanap ng lalaki para sa'yo at binigyan ka
ng pet name."
"Yeah, right." Pinaikot niya ang paningin at umalis.
Nang mawala siya ay saka lang lumapit sa'kin si Lee.
"Aren't you excited?" Nagtaka ako nang umiling siya. Bakit biglang nagbago ang mood
niya?
"A-alis ka...ba ulit p-pag uwi...natin?"
"Hindi. Diba sabi ko sa'yo hindi na 'ko aalis. What makes you think that?"
Hindi siya sumagot at yumakap lang sa'kin. "Ayoko n-nang umalis kung... iiwan mo
lang ulit a-ako..."
Then I remembered what she meant. Lumabas rin kami no'n bago ako umalis para mag
training.
I hugged her back and kissed her forehead. "I'm sorry, cuddle cakes. Hindi na 'ko
pupunta sa malayo ulit, okay? I'm here to take care of you." I sincerely said while
running my hand on her hair.
Chapter 3
A WEEK after coming back, I started working again for Don Leticio- I mean si papa.
It had slipped my mind so many times.
Papunta na 'ko ngayon sa opisina niya. He's giving me a run through since I'm the
corporate lawyer.
"How's work for you so far?"
"I was gone for more than a year. Maraming pong dapat i review na kontrata pero
hindi naman gano'n kahirap."
"Umpisa palang 'yan, Osias dahil maraming naka abang na project sa'tin ngayon. Your
workloads will double kaya kumuha ako ng makakatulong mo."
"Is he the one who took my place when I'm away?"
"Yes and no because he is a she. May pinagagawa lang ako sa kanya pero parating
na'yon."
Tumango muna ako at umupo sa harap ng lamesa niya. I was thinking about my wife
earlier. Halatang malungkot siya sa pag alis ko. I even thought she's going to cry.
Well, she almost cried.
Napatingin ako kay papa na nakangiti habang nakatingin sa picture frame sa kanyang
lamesa. Hinawakan niya ito at bahagyang hinaplos. I saw longing in his eyes kaya
alam ko na kung sino ang nasa larawan.
"What kind of woman is your wife?" Napatingin siya sa'kin. "I mean your first
wife."
Pagtatama ko. Baka kasi isipin niya na si mama ang tinutukoy ko.
His eyes immediately showed brightness but the longing is still there.
"She's everything." He said reminiscing. "She's funny, kind, never failed to remind
me to eat on time, a bit hard headed... the whole package minus the cooking."
We both chuckled at that.
"She really looks like Leanna." Bulong niya habang nakatingin sa kawalan.
"She's sound lovely."
"She was and I know she's in peace while looking down at us. Lalo na sa anak namin.
Kamusta na nga pala si Leanna?"
"She didn't want me to go earlier."
"Na miss ka talaga niya. I think it's better kung i extend ko ng isang linggo ang
pagbalik mo."
"That's not necessary, pa. Na convince ko na siya kanina. Also, she got distracted
with the things I bought her yesterday."
Naputol ang pag-uusap namin ng isang katok. Kasunod no'n ay ang pagpasok ng
assistant ni papa at isang babae. Agad din namang umalis ang babaeng assistant
matapos tanguan ni papa.
I think she's the one papa mentioned earlier.
"Ms. Gardiola, this is Mr. Alcazar. You'll be working with him from now on."
Iniabot ko agad ang kamay ko para makipagkamay. "Nice meeting you, Mr. Alcazar."
"Likewise."
It was only a short introduction. Matapos no'n ay bumalik na kami sa floor kung
nasa'n ang opisina namin.
The rest of the day was spent with briefings. Ipinakita at ipinakilala sa'kin ni
Ms. Gardiola ang mga portfolio at kontrata ng kumpanya sa iba't ibang business.
Ang nature of business ng kompanya ay mga mamahaling bato. We import and exports
stones like diamonds and rubies kaya sa'min kumukuha ng supplies ang mga alahero.
We also have partnership with mining companies all over the world.
"That's all for this day, Mr. Alcazar. Bukas nalang natin ipagpatuloy." Napatingin
tuloy ako sa wrist watch ko dahil sa sinabi niya.
"Wow. I didn't notice the time."
Hindi ko talaga namalayan ang oras. Hindi ko kasi inaasahan na madaling pakibagayan
itong si Ms. Gardiola. She nothing like that other lawyers that are stiff and
always serious. Malumanay din siyang magsalita at palangiti kaya agad na naging
kampante ang pakiramdam ko sa kanya.
Actually, wala sa itsura niya ang pagiging lawyer. She's more likely to be a
florist with her smiles, sweet voice and that positive attitude.
"Ganyan talaga 'pag busy ka." Nakangiti niyang sabi habang inaayos ang mga gamit.
"Mauna na 'ko, Mr. Alcazar."
"I prefer to be called Osias. It makes me feel younger."
"I will if you call me Jackie from now on."
"I rest this case."
I raised both hands as a sign of defeat. She laughed while I plastered a wide grin.
"See you tomorrow, Osias."
"You too, Jackie."
Pumunta na rin ako sa lamesa ko para mag-ayos ng gamit. Dumaan kaya ako sa mall
para bilhan ng pasalubong si Lee? Oo nga. Siguradong matutuwa siya sa ibibigay ko.
Agad na dumapo ang ngiti sa mga labi ko nang makita si Lee. Her hands raised on the
side while balancing herself on the hover board we bought.
Kagat kagat ang labi at halata ang konsentrasyon. She was busy looking down for her
balance, she didn't even notice me arrived.
I took off my satchel and put it down on the floor. Tumayo ako sa harap niya.
Umangat ang tingin niya na ikinagulat niya. She lost her balance but I held both
side of her waist to keep her in place.
Ako naman ang nagulat nang tumalon siya at yakapin ang leeg ko.
"Blaisey's b-back!" Her giggles made me chuckled and my hands move away to grab her
legs. Pinulupot ko ang mga ito sa bewang ko because I don't want her dangling like
a monkey on me then I support her with both hands on her back. Ginawaran ko siya ng
halik sa labi. She giggled again.
"You miss me that much, cuddle cakes?"
"So...much!" Naramdaman ko ang pagngiti niya sa leeg ko. She was breathing on my
neck and the warmness of it didn't escape my senses.
"Look at me, my wife." Humagikgik lang muli ito. "C'mon, cuddle cakes. Malulungkot
ako 'pag di ka tumingin sa'kin." Inalis niya ang mukha sa leeg ko. Ramdam ko parin
ang naiwang init sa leeg ko na parang ayaw matanggal.
She was still not looking at me. She had found more interest in tugging and playing
my necktie than to me. She seemed to be enjoying it pero ako hindi. Hindi naman sa
ayaw kong magsaya siya. That's the first thing I wanted for her. I just want to be
part of it or more rather, I want her to be happy with me. I want her attention.
All of it. 'Yung sa'kin lang.
"Look at me." Marahil dahil sa tono ng boses ko kaya siya natigilan at napatingin
agad. Nagtataka.
I too was surprised on how serious and low my voice came out.
"Now tell me how much you miss me." Sinapo niya ang mga pisngi ko at sumimangot.
Her beautiful eyes clashed with mine.
"I was...sad w-when you're...not here." Paputul putol niyang sabi. "It fe-feels
weird here..." Malungkot na sabi niya habang tinuturo ang dibdib. "It hurts but
I... didn't cry."
"Talaga?"
Mabilis itong tumango ng ilang beses. "Good g-girl ako. B-behave."
"Yes. Good girl ka nga." I chuckled kissing her forehead. "At dahil dyan, I have a
surprise for you..."
Naglakad ako patungo sa bakuran. Buhat ko parin siya. Hindi naman ako nabibigatan.
I actually like carrying her so it's okay.
Dinala ko siya sa dog house. Sa dating aso namin 'yan. Si Cherry. Ang sabi ni
manang ay biglang nawala ang aso. Nakatakas daw.
Napatigil ako nang maramdaman ko ang panginginig niya.
"Lee, what's wrong?"
She just buried her head on my neck and clung to me like a last lifeline. What's
happening to her?
Ilang beses ko siyang tinanong pero wala akong nakuhang sagot. I got worried. I
could even feel her heartbeats. It was fast and wild. Pati ako kinakabahan na gaya
niya. Was she having a panic attack? Yes. She's having a panic attack.
I shifted my hold on her, placing my hands behind her knees and shoulders before
running back to the house.
"Manang Josie!" tawag ko pagkapasok. Dumating si Manang habang binababa ko si Lee

sa sofa. I heard her gasped.
"Anong nangyari, hijo."
"Manang, penge po ng tubig."
"Oo. Sandali lang." Natataranta niyang sagot.
Hindi ko na tinignan kung umalis siya dahil nanatili ang atensyon ko kay Lee.
She's still shaking. I didn't even know if she's scared or what. Blangko ang mga
mata niya habang nakayuko.
Sinapo ko ang kanyang magkabilang pisngi at iniangat ang mukha para tumingin
sa'kin.
I got more worried. Nakatingin nga siya sa'kin pero wala akong makita sa mga mata
niya.
No emotions. No light. Void on anything.
I hugged her tight. "It's okay, Lee. Don't be scared. I'm here..." I kept
whispering soothing words. Hinahaplos ko rin pataas baba ang kanyang likod para
pakalmahin.
I continued doing it those until her shaking lessened but I still refuse to release
her from my arms.
"Bla... B-Bla...key?"
"Oo, ako 'to. Si Blakey. I'm here. Don't be scared. I won't leave you. I'll take
care of you. I'll make you happy. Pakiusap, cuddle cakes, come back to me."
------
I was having second thoughts of leaving Lee for work. Nag-aalala ako dahil baka
mangyari ulit ung nangyari kahapon. I was looking at her while playing with Softie.
Softie was the dog I bought for her. Soft was the first word she spoke after
caressing its body thus, the name Softie.
I thought she was scared because of him kaya nagbalak akong ibalik ito pero nakita
siya ni Lee habang pinapasok ito sa sasakyan. She got excited and ran to get him.
She said she wanted to play.
Palaisipan pa rin sa'kin ung nangyari kahapon. I called her father and told him
what happened. Sa sobrang pag-aalala nito sa anak ay nagmadali itong pumunta dito.
Gano'n din si Penelope at mama, wala ideya. Dito na rin sila kumain ng hapunan.
They were puzzled and confused as I was.
"Play!" Nilapag ni Lee si Softie sa lamesa. She looks cute smiling, looking at me
while her arms and chin were resting on the dog's body. I placed down the papers I
was reading.
"Later. Gusto mo bang bisitahin si daddy?"
"Daddy? Sa'n si... daddy?" she looked at me confused with her head a bit tilted.
"Sa office. Isasama kita. Do you like that?"
"Y-Yes! Gusto ko... m-makita si d-daddy! Aniya na may malapad na ngiti. She's just
too cute for herself. So adorable.
"Let's go."
"Sama si S-softie?"
"He can't. Animals aren't allowed in there, cuddle cakes." She pouted. "Maybe next
time 'pag pumunta tayo sa mall, okay?"
"O-Okay."
In the entire car ride, she was looking through the window, curious on what's
seeing on the outside.
Ang sabi ni mama ay lagi daw niyang nilalabas nila Penelope si Lee pero hanggang
ngayon ay para parin siyang batang nakatanaw sa lahat.
"Blakey, Wh-at's that? C-can we...go there?"
Hinabol ko ng tingin ang tinuro niya. Halata ang excitement sa mga mata nito.
"That's the carnival, Lee. Sige, pupunta tayo dyan next time."
Nang makarating kami sa office ay bigla siyang tumahimik. Hawak ko ang kamay niya
at siya naman ay nakayuko lang at tahimik. She didn't even wanna greet back the
staff I introduced her to.
Buti nalang at mag-isa lang ako sa office ngayon dahil absent si Jackie.
Maya't maya ko siyang tinitignan. She was busy with her curiosity roaming around
the room. Hindi ko maiwasang mapatingin kapag nakakarinig ako ng 'ooh', 'wow' at
'pretty' na nanggagaling sa kanya. Hay! Ang cute talaga niya.
It was almost lunch pero hindi parin siya napapagod. Ayaw ngang kumain dahil busy
siya sa paglalaro ng stapler, table lamp shade at stress ball sa lapag.
I ended up sitting on the floor with her, feeding her while she played with the
ball. Nakuha niya ung yellow na stress ball sa lamesa ni Jackie. Hindi naman siguro
masisira 'yon kaya hinayaan ko siya.
Around noon, I noticed her quietly looking out the window. The light from the
outside seeping through the window illuminates the vibrant color of her eyes. It
was so beautiful and alluring but it showed boredom.
Naiinip na siya. Siguro oras na para puntahan namin si papa.
Tuwang tuwa ang mag-ama nang magkita sila. Hindi rin kasi alam ni papa na dadalhin
ko si Lee dito.
I laughed seeing her wander around her dad's office. Ang papa naman ay nakabantay
sa kanya. Kumapara kasi sa opisina ko, may mga vases dito at ibang mga babasagin.
"Pretty..." nakakita siya ng dolphin figurine sa lamesa ni papa.
"Anak, 'wag 'yan. Baka mabasag at masugatan ka pa." Kinuha ni papa ito sa kanya at
nilapag. "Please, Osias. Baka atakihin ako sa puso sa pag-aalala."
I chuckled. Pilit kasing inaabot ni Lee ang figurine habang si papa naman ay
pinipigilan siya.
"Sige po, papa. Pasensya na po."
"Okay lang. Bukas na bukas din ay papatanggal ko lahat ng delikadong bagay dito.
I'll order them to replace even this glass table para naman mapanatag ang loob ko
'pag dinala mo siya dito ulit. No, darling! 'Wag 'yan!"
Kinuha ko na si Lee mula sa pagkalikot niya sa florera.
If other people would know our situation, they will end up telling that I ended up
raising a child instead of having a wife. So what? Gano'n nga rin ang sinasabi
nila Penelope at mama Anita pero wala akong pakialam.
Maybe this is really my purpose in life. To take care of my little cute wife who
loves to cuddle. Tanggap ko ang kinabukasan ko na kasama siya at kami lang dalawa.
Chapter 4
"NAGLA-LUNCH ka ba?" Hindi ko maiwasang mapatingin at mapangiti kay Jackie.
"Oo naman."
"You sure? This is your second week at hindi pa kita nakikitang lumabas para mag-
lunch."
"Maybe because I always pack lunch." Pinaikot niya ang paningin sa'kin.
"Talaga? Anong pagkain mo?"
"Bakit manghihingi ka?" Agad na umarko ang kilay niya kaya natawa ako. "Fine. I'm
willing to share my homemade chicken sandwich."
"Chicken Sandwich? 'Yan ang maipagmamalaki mo?" she said in a mocking tone. "Let's
go." Pagkasabi niya no'n ay hinila niya ako sa braso. Ano bang ginagawa nito?
"Wait! Sa'n tayo pupunta? You know I can sue you for this."
"I can counter that but first; we need to get something appropriate to eat."
Para sa isang babae, napakalakas namang manghatak nito. Wala tuloy akong nagawa
kung hindi ang sumunod. Masyado kasing maraming gagawin sa opisina kaya wala akong
oras kumain. Nagugutom narin ako pero I thank manang for preparing me that
sandwich.
Dinala niya ko sa isang pamilyar na restaurant. Dito in-announce ung engagement ko

kay Lee, sa dinner meeting ng pamilya namin.
"Ito ang tamang lunch. Not sandwiches." Umiling nalang ako at kumain. She on the
other hand, seemed to be enjoying her food.
"You know, I like the food here. Dito na 'ko kumakain simula college ako and I
can't seem to say no to their dishes."
"Halata nga. Itsura mo palang parang sarap na sarap ka, eh."
Sumubo siya at umungol. "Yeah. Their foods never fail to give me foodgasm."
Sa halos lahat ng ginagawa niya, hindi ko talaga maiwasang matawa. Lalo na 'pag
free time namin. There's this one time that she dropped me some jokes and I laughed
out loud. Not because it was funny. It was a dead joke actually but the way she
laughed after, nakakahawa.
"Alam mo, hindi ko talaga alam kung bakit naging abugado ka."
"What do you mean by that?" She said, her eyes turning into slits.
"Kasi naman, you're very loud, funny and everything's like rainbows and butterflies
for you."
"So dahil hindi ako seryoso lagi kagaya mo at ng ibang normal na abugado, hindi na
ko pwede sa propesiyong ito? That's being judgmental, Mr. Alcazar."
"I'm sorry, Jackie. Lagi ka kasing nakangiti at masaya. Baka naman tama ang
kasabihan na people who smile the most, are the saddest people in the world? Ano?
Is that true?"
May kung anong emosyon akong nakitang dumaan sa mga mata niya pero bago ko pa
malaman kung ano 'yon ay agad itong nawala.
"Kuntento ako sa buhay ko at walang problemang kinahaharap. Maybe that's why I'm a
h-happy person." Her smile got wider but the way she said it looked like she was
trying to convince me. Or...herself?
Ang kagandahan ng pagiging abogado ay ang kakayahang makita kung nag-aalangan ang
kaharap namin. Or maybe I'm just over thinking it. Also, it's her life not mine.
"Oh, kasal ka na?" Napatingin ako sa kanya habang siya ay sa daliri ko.
"Yes. I'm happily married since two years ago."
"Happily married, huh? May anak ka na rin, ano?"
"Wala pa..."
"Wala pa? Isn't the happiest part of marriage is when you have kids?"
"I don't know. Ang gusto ko lang ay makasama ang asawa ko for the rest of our
lives. Kahit wala pa kaming anak, I treat everyday as the happiest part of our
marriage as long as she's with me."
"Ang korni po pero dahil sa sinabi mong 'yan sigurong napaka swerte ng asawa mo.
What's her name?"
"I think ako ang maswerte sa kanya and her name's Leanna. 'Pag kinasal ka na,
you'll know what I feel."
Natawa ako sa reaksyon niya bago ito bumalik sa pagkain. She scoffed, disgusted by
what I'd said.
Hindi naman siya mahihirapan humanap. She's beautiful. I mean with her black, round
eyes, those nice lips, wavy hair, sexy body and good persona, no man will resist
her. Except for me of course. I'm lucky of my wife.
'Yon talaga ang nasa isip ko. I still get to live my life minus the women. Isa pa,
panatag ang loob ko kapag si Lee ang nasa tabi ko. I get to have a family with no
complications. I'm happy when she's happy. I'm scared when she's scared.
I'm here as her guardian, protector, best friend and husband. There's nothing else
I'd rather be for her.
Nang mag weekends ay binalak kong dalhin si Lee sa amusement park ang kaso lang ay
tumawag ung kaibigan ko. Si Renz.
Simula highschool ay classmate ko na siya. Nung second year college ay nag shift
ako kaya naiwan siya sa business ad.
He's also married with a kid. Ang alam ko ay mag dadalawang taon na ang anak niya.
Ang sabi niya ay bibisita siya dito sa hapon.
On the way kasi ito pauwi mula sa pupunatahan niya.
Hinanap ko muna is Lee bago lumabas ako at dumiretso sa garden. Ando'n na daw siya.
Nagpahanda na rin ako ng meryenda para sa'min.
He was carrying a child when I saw him. He'd said that he'd bring someone. Akala ko
lover. Anak pala.
Kahit kailan talaga ang lalaking ito napaka pormal. Naka suit and tie pa. He looks
more like a lawyer than me. Always serious, stiff, formal and all.
"Pre, this is Leanna my wife."
"Hello, Leanna. Nice to meet you. I'm Renz." Agad na angtago sa likod ko si Lee
nang umangat ang kaliwang kamay ni Renz para makipag kamay. She's on guard again.
"Lee, it's okay. Kaibigan ko siya. He's nice."
Alangan pero tinanggap niya parin ang kamay nito. "H-Hello."
"So how's life been with you when I'm away?"
"Tough."
Nag-kamustahan kami habang tinatanaw ko si Lee na nakikipaglaro sa anak ni Renz sa

halamanan. Renz was looking at them too. Sa tingin ko ay may nagbago sa kanya. He's
still the tough guy in the outside but I could see the sadness and longing in his
eyes. He's miserable inside.
"How's being married?" Suminsim siya ng juice.
"Fine. Ikaw?"
"Not yet..." he whipered. "and never will be..."

"How about the mother? Kala ko kasal ka na?"
Umiling siya. "Dapat pinakasalan ko na siya agad. I made a mistake and now it's too
late for us." Hindi na 'ko nagtanong pa. I could feel that he didn't want to talk
about it.
Sandali kaming tumahimik. Maya't maya kami napapatingin sa dalawa dahil sa mga tawa
nila. I smiled seeing Lee happy playing with Renz' daughter. Pumitas siya ng santan
at humarap sa batang sunud ng sunod sa kanya.
"This is... a f-flower..." binigay niya ito kay Janine.
"fwawew."
"How old is she?"
"Almost two." Aniya.
"T-this is a... l-leaf."
"Yif!" Kahit bulol ay talagang natutuwa si Lee sa kanya. She turned back and walk
away, Janine followed her again with tiny steps.
"Ikaw? Aren't you planning on having a child."
"Wala."
"Why not? Being a father is a great feeling. Trust me. It's different pero hindi mo
mapipigilang maging masaya."
"Are you crazy? I mean look at her..." Tinuro ko si Lee na hawak ang kamay na ang
kamay ni Janine. "How could you want me to ruin that? She's so gentle and innocent.
She's so...pure. Hindi ko kayang isipin na sisirain ko lahat ng 'yon para lang
magkaroon ng anak." Tinungga ko ang inumin ko at bumuntong hininga.
"Maybe you're right. I don't want to do that either if I were your place."
"Isa pa, sa tingin ko hindi pa handa si Lee para sa anak."
"How can you be so sure? Baka ikaw 'yon, pre?"
I scowled at him. "Ako pa talaga ang hindi handa? Loko ka ba?"
"Baka ayaw mo lang mag-alaga ng dalawang bata..." I glared at him. He shrugged.
"Don't say that. There's nothing wrong with my wife. She's perfect."
"I didn't say anything."
Lee was picking pebbles before showing them to Janine who looked so attentive.
"T-this is...a l-ittle rock. This is...b-bigger rock." Kinuha ito ni Janine at isa
isang binato.
"I can see that she'll be a great mother, Osias."
"You think so?"

"Oo naman." He said with conviction. "Every woman has a maternal instinct. Actually
they have two. First instinct ay ang lubos na pagmamahal sa sariling anak. The
second one is loving and treating a child that needs love and home as her own. Both
are beautiful and unconditional and believe me, your wife is no exemption."
Umiyak si Janine na naka agaw ng atensyon namin. Nakadapa na ito sa damuhan ngayon.
"Shït!" Handa na kong lapitan sila pero pinigilan ako ni Renz. "Bakit?"
"Just watch." And I did.
Kita ko ang pagkataranta sa mukha ni Lee. She even looked at me, asking for help.
Nanatili akong nakamasid. Malakas ang pag iyak ni Janine at mukang iiyak narin ang
asawa ko.
"I'm getting them-"
"Look."
When I look again, Janine is now smiling and giggling while Lee carried her in her
arms. She' rocked her back and forth, cooing, calming the child hanggang sa hikbi
nalang. Tuluyan nang tumahan ito at tumawa na.
"G-good b...aby. No c-crying na, 'kay?"
"What just happened?" Naguguluhan kong tanong kay Renz.
"That's her mother instinct kicking in."
Right now, seeing my wife with a child creates something hope in me. Could it be
possible na magkaanak kami ni Lee?
Parenthood
Inisip ko na rin 'yan no'n but I always only shrugged at that thought. Hindi ko na
pinalalim ang isiping 'yon dahil kuntento na 'ko na kaming dalawa lang hanggang sa
dulo.
Being a father never really crossed my mind. Nakikita ko kay Lee ang sinasabing
maternal instinct ni Renz. She'll be a great mother I know. Pero ako? How would I
be as a father? Gumana kaya ang paternal instinct ko?
Was Renz right? Was I the one not ready?
And even it I was ready, would I be a good father? Would I do a great job like dad
and Lee's father?
I'm sitting at the end of the bed while looking at the photo Renz sent me thru
phone. It was Janine and Lee's picture. Iniisip ko parin ung nangyari kanina and
I'm still not sure what to think.
Lee, me and a kid, a family.
Maganda ang larawang 'yon kaso lang mukhang mahihirapan kami lalo na si Lee.
I put the phone down the nightstand. Natutulog na si Lee nang tabihan ko. I smiled
looking at her innocent face. Maybe we will. Not now but someday perhaps.
I haven't yet made myself comfortable in bed when she woke up at kagaya ng mga
nakaraang gabi, tumayo siya para i-check ang mga locks at kagaya rin ng nakaraan,
nakasunod lang ako sa kanya. Lumapit lang ako nang mukhang babagsak na siya.
"Are you tired, my little wife?" Agad siyang yumakap sa bewang ko at dahan dahang
tumango.
"Sleepy."
"Then let me carry you to bed." Napangiti ako dahil antok na antok na talaga siya
pero pinipilit paring dumilat.
Umakyat ako ng hagdan habang buhat ko siya. I settled her to bed before sliding in
the covers next to her.
The best part of my day happens when she snuggles me, burying her face on the crook
of my neck. It's late but it makes my day complete every time.
Wala akong pang-itaas kaya dama ko ang init ng katawan niya. Her breath's even
glazing my skin. She was warm and comfortable. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam ng kayakap
siya. Parang hinehele ako sa pagtulog.
I kissed her lips for a goodnight. "Goodnight, my cute wife."
"l-locks..." antok na antok niyang sabi.
"Ayos na sila. Nobody can enter our home now. We're safe." I kissed her temple and
she cuddles me more.
"Bla...key..."
"hhmm?"
"I want...cake..."
"Bibilhan kita bukas, okay?"
"b-baby..." nanigas ako sa binulong niya. "I a-also want a bab-by..like J-anine."
Halos tulog na siya. She couldn't be serious, right?

Chapter 5
DÃMN, I'm nervous.
I've been thinking about this in the past days and now I'm here.
Sabihin mo na kasi ang dapat mong sabihin!
Kinakabahan talaga ako pero alam kong ito ang tamang gawin. I'm a man for God's
sake. I need to face this.
"Pa, I need your consent."
"For what, hijo? You're old enough for that unless..." He looked at me na parang
hinahalukay ang dahilan sa kabuuan ko. "May kinalaman ba ang anak ko dito?"
"Yes, pa."
"Then what is it?" Sumandal siya ng maayos sa swivel chair at pinagsaklop ang mga
kamay, hinihintay akong magsalita. Nakatayo ako sa harap niya. Bakit feeling ko isa
akong kriminal na hahatulan sa hukom?
Dämn! Mas lalo akong kinabahan. Iba talaga siya 'pag ang topic ay si Lee.
I nervously shifted from foot to foot before finally having the guts to speak.
"Naisip ko lang na kung...kung pwedeng bumuo na kami ng pamilya."
"Hindi kita maintindihan ng maayos, hijo. Ulitin mo nga."
Tumango ako. "I was thinking kung papayag kayong bumuo na kami ni Lee ng sariling
pamilya... with our own child."
That's it! That wasn't so hard. Hooh!
Kaso mas lalo ata akong ninenerbyos sa pananahimik niya. Nakatingin lang siya
sa'kin at nag-iisip. I just hope na positive ang bunga no'n.
"Bakit naisip mong kailangan mo pa 'kong kausapin para diyan?"
"I respect you, sir."
"It makes me feel good to know that you have so much respect for me."
"Kayo po ang ama ng asawa ko at nagpapasalamat ako at andyan kayo para ibigay siya
sa'kin."
"You're right. I'm only the father and you are her husband. Karapatan mong bumuo ng
sarili mong pamilya kasama ang 'yong asawa. I'm thankful that you think that you
need my consent. Siguro dahil narin sa sitwasyon ni Lee. I know she's not any kind
of woman in her age."
"She's very special, pa."
"I'm glad you see it the way as I am." Nakangiti niyang sabi.
Tumayo siya at binutones ang coat niya. Lumipat siya sa pang isahang couch. Ako
naman ay sumunod at umupo sa kanang sofa.
"Alam mo dati, alangan akong ipagkatiwala ang anak ko sa'yo."
"But you still trusted me..."
"Of course not." Humalakhak ito at ako naman ay nagulat sa sinabi niya. "Alam ko
mabait ka pero ayoko ng ugali mo no'n because you're a playboy. Naisip ko na kawawa
ang anak ko 'pag napunta sa'yo at baka mambabae kalang. Ang kaso, malaki ang tiwala
ko sa ama mo kaya sumugal ako and I'm glad I did. Nakita ko ang pagbabago sa'yo.
You cared for my daughter very much and you have thrown away your bachelor ways.
Tama nga si Rodrigo, maasahan ka nga talaga. That's why I'm so thankful that you're
her husband."
"I-huh... I don't know what to say..."

"You don't have to say anything. Just keep on taking care and loving my daughter.
She's also my life you know."
Loving her daughter?
"I love her?"
I said or more than question myself. Do I really feel that way to her? No? Hindi
ako sigurado. Ang alam ko lang ay gusto kong andyan si Lee sa tabi ko. Ang makasama
siya lagi. Masaya ako 'pag andyan siya at nakikita ko. I miss her everyday when I
go to work. I love when she welcomes me from work and even the name she calls me...
Could it be that I'm falling in love with my wife?
Biglang nagliwanang ang ekspresyon nito. "Maybe you haven't seen it but the way you
care for me daughter, your gentleness to her, especially when you look at her, I
know you love her. Inoobserbahan ko din kung pa'no mo pakitunguhan ang anak ko and
I always sees it. The shine in your eyes every time you look at her, that the kind
of look I always give to her late mother. Puno ng pagmamahal. And believe me when I
say that I've been observing you for quite a long time. Ang hindi ko lang agad
matanggap n'on ay ang pag-alis mo ilang bwan matapos kayong ikasal."
"I'm sorry for that, pa."
"No need to apologize, hijo. That's for your self growth." He said tapping my
shoulder. "About your concern. Why is that, all of the sudden you want kids?"
"Bumisita kasi ung kaibigan ko. He brought his one year old daughter. Lee played
with her and from that moment, something just clicked inside my head. I saw her
with our own kid. Does that make any sense?"
"Oo naman, Osias."
"Also, she kept on asking me for a baby these past few days." Totoo 'yon.
Lagi niya kong kinukulit na bigyan siya ng baby. Maya't maya.
Ang akala ko nananaginip lang siya nung gabing una niyang hiningi 'yon. I also
thought that she's forget about it in the morning but boy I was wrong. Paggising na
paggising niya no'n, hiningan agad ako ng baby. Ako naman si tanga, tumunganga lang
at walang masabe. Grabe! Hindi ko alam ire-react no'n.
"So parang naoobliga ka lamang dahil hinihiling ni Leanna o baka naiinggit ka lang
sa kaibigan mo? Which one?"
"No. That's not it." Mabilis na pagtanggi ko. "I've already thought of it many
times. Bago ko pa nakausap si Renz pero binaliwala ko dahil alam kong hindi pa
handa si Lee. Isa pa, she'll be carrying the baby for months. Ayokong mahirapan
siya kaya kung sakali man, isang anak lang ang gusto ko."
"You really do love my daughter."
Whether I'm in love with Lee or not. Whether I'm falling in love with her or not,
I'm happy about it. Okay lang naman, diba? Asawa ko na siya. Mas maganda nga 'yon.
"Then you have my approval. Gusto ko naring magka apo, eh. All I'm asking is be
patient to her. 'Wag mo siyang bibiglain sa ganito. Alam mo namang wala siyang
kaalam alam dito sa ngayon."
Malaking ngiti ang pinakawalan ko. "Yes, pa. Salamat po."

"Good luck, Osias. And next time we talk about this, I hope na may apo na 'ko."
Tinapik niya muli ako sa balikat. That was the cue that we had ended the
conversation. Instinctively, I hugged him as he tapped my back.
Nagpaalam ako at umalis na. Bumalik ako sa office na masayang masaya ang
pakiramdam.
This is a start of change between Lee and I. Something new. Something good.
Ang I'm d-mn ecstatic about it.
Ganado akong magtrabaho. Pa'no ko kaya sasabihin kay Lee?
Lee, we can have a baby now...
Tapos ano? Oh, Sh-t!
Napahilamos ako sa mukha. Nangalumbaba. Bumukas ang pintuan at pumasok si Jackie.

Napako ang tingin ko sa kanya.
"Ngayon kalang?"
"Half day." Sagot biya habang nilalapag ang gamit niya.
Nakatingin lang ako. Ngayon lang siya nag half day pero ilang beses na siyang
umabsent last week. Mukha rin siyang may inaalala base narin sa tamlay niya ngayon.
Minsan nalang din siya kung ngumiti. Bakit kaya?
"Is there something bothering you?"
Tumigil siya at sinulyapan ako. "Wala bakit?"
Nagkibit balikat ako bago bumalik sa trabaho. I think she's not ready to talk about
it. Pero hindi talaga ako sanay na ganyan siya.
Tahimik kong tinapos ang trabaho ko. Ung katabi ko tahimik din.
"Una na 'ko, Jackie." Tumango siya at bahagyang ngumiti.
"Ingat ka."
"Pinagbabantaan mo ba 'ko?" Ngumti siya sa biro ko.
"Bakit? Natatakot ka ba?"
"Hindi but I'm glad to see you smile today. Sige."
Palabas na ko nang tinawag niya ko. "Thanks for making me smile kahit saglit lang."
Sincerity was in her voice. I smiled.
"Hindi ako sanay na hindi ka maingay, eh." Ngumit siya ng tunay at umiling.
Nagpaalam muli ako at umalis.
Sinasabi ko na nga ba at may problema siya. I'm glad na kahit papa'no ay napangiti
ko siya.
Hindi ako dumiretso sa parking lot. Bibili pa kasi ako ng cake na pasalubong.
Malapit lang naman 'yon dito sa building.
Ano naman kayang flavor? Lee loves cakes as much as she loves cuddling. Hindi naman
siya mapili sa cake.
I think red velvet nalang. Mas ganado kasi siya 'pag yon ang uwi ko.
Nasa underground parking lot na 'ko nang makita ko si Jackie.
"Jac-" I shouted but hesitated. Nagmamadali kasi siya habang may kausap sa
cellphone.
"O sige... No I won't, Rick. Ako nang bahala... I also have work-okay. Pupunta rin
ako bukas."
Agad agad itong binuksan ang sasakyan at pumasok.
I got curious hearing part of their conversation. May kinalaman kaya 'yon kung
bakit lagi siyang wala sa office. Siguro titignan ko bukas. Kung absent siya,
marahil dahil nga do'n.
----
Salamat sa lahat ng nag co-comments. Ginaganahan ako dahil sa inyo. Thanks.

Chapter 6
WALANG sumalubong sa'kin pag-uwi. This is unusual dahil si Lee lagi ang una kong
nakikita 'pag uwi ko.
"Lee?" Asan na siya?
Nakita ko si manang Josie na parang malalim ang iniisip. Lahat ba ng tao ngayon may
inaalala maliban sa'kin?
Napailing ako. Tinawag ko si manang na mukhang nagulat pa.
"Manang Josie, si Lee po?"
"Hay nako, hijo. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko dyan sa batang 'yan." Aniya habang
lumalapit sa'kin.
"Bakit po? Anong nangyari?"
"Abay habang nanonood kami ng TV, bigla ba naman akong tinanong kung sa'n kukuha ng
sanggol. Gusto daw niya ng baby."
"Po?"
"Ewan ko ba. Ayaw mo daw kasi siyang bigyan. E hindi ko naman alam ang sasabihin
ko. Ibigay mo na kasi ang gusto, hijo. O sya, ikaw na ang bahala sa asawa mo.
Ando'n siya sa salas. Iniwan ko at baka kung ano pa ang masabi ko. Puntahan mo na."
Halos itulak na 'ko ni manang papunta sa salas. Naiwan ko pa ang gamit ko sa may
pintuan.
Dumiretso na 'ko sa salas.
Hay naku, manang. Hindi ko rin alam ang sasabihin ko kay Lee eh.
Bukas ang TV pero hindi siya nanonood. Isang koreanobela ang palabas. Nakayuko lang
siya ay pinaglalaruan ang kanyang mga daliri. Softie was sleeping beside her feet.
"Lee?" I got no response. I sat beside her, Softie immediately stood up barking
before running away.
I pulled her to seat on my lap. Ramdam ko ang pagkatamlay niya.
"Where's my welcome kiss, cuddle cakes?" Bumuntong hininga lang siya. Hinawakan ko
ang kanyang baba at inangat.
"Gusto mo na bang magka-baby talaga?"
"Yes. B-baby..." Lumiwanag ang mukha niya.
Ako naman ang bumuntong hininga. Pa'no ba 'to?
"Lee... Hindi gano'n kadaling magkaroon ng baby. We need to prepare ourselves for
parenthood. Magkakaroon naman tayo ng anak, Lee. I promise. But we can't have one
right now. Matagal pa bago siya dumating." She turned gloomy again.
"Kailan?"
"Soon. Having a baby is not easy. We will have one kapag pareho na tayong
responsable, okay, cuddle cakes?"
"O-okay..."
Tumamlay na naman ang boses niya. Magkakaroon din naman kami ng anak pero hindi pa
ngayon. Kaya ko namang maghintay hanggang sa maging ready siya. I wanted one too
and I was willing to adjust so that we could both have what we really liked.
"Gusto mo ba ng cake? May uwi ako gaya ng gusto mo."
She nodded yes but I could see that she's still down. Um-oo siya kanina. Sana lang
ay naiintindihan niya talaga.
Hinawakan ko ang bewang niya para sana tumayo kaso ayaw niya.
"Do you still want something?" Hindi na naman siya sumagot.
Hinawakan niya ang magkabilang pisngi ko. Nanatili lang ang tingin ko sa kanya.
Naghihintay. Hanggang sa unti-unting lumapit ang kanyang mukha sa'kin.
I was caught of guard.
She kissed me.
Ito ang unang beses na siya ang unang humalik.
"Wel-come home, h-husband." She said, leaving me in trance.
Dahan dahan akong napangiti. "That's right, wife. I'm home."

"I want...c-cake."
"I want another kiss first."
Inunahan ko na siya. Her kiss left me wanting for more so I held her nape and
pulled her close. Nagtagpo ang aming mga labi. That very exact moment, I felt that
this one was special.
Ito ang unang halik namin bilang mag-asawa. Simple lang ito kagaya ng sa kasal
namin pero iba rin. Our lips were pressed together until she opened up for air and
I took that chance to deepen the kiss.
I felt electrocuted.
Two hundred and twenty volts.
Umungol siya at lumayo sa'kin. Too bad that ended the kiss but it was still there.
I felt calm, happy and daze especially that feeling on my lips.
Pinasadahan ko ng dila ang labi ko. It still tickled a bit.
That two hundred and twenty volts.
"Pasensya na. Did I hurt you?"
"It's okay. I-I like...k-kissing. But...c-cant..."
"Breathe?"
Pagtatapos ko dahil mukang hinigingal pa siya mula sa halik at sa pagsasalita. It's

hard for her to talk continuously. Sumasakit ang lalamunan niya at kinakapos ng
hininga.
Kinagat niya ang ibabang labi niya kaya napako do'n ang tingin ko. Sh-t! I want
another.
"K-kiss later..."
Napahalakhak ako. Her head's tilted in confusion. Hinaplos ko ang namumula niyang
labi.
"You really are innocent and cute. You're mine. I'm your husband and you're my
wife. Tandaan mo 'yan."
"Okay. I-I want c-cake."
"Anything my wife wants."
Madalang na siyang magtanong tungkol do'n after. Siguro dahil lagi ko sa kanya
pinapakita ung picture nila ni Janine.
I also talked to Renz na kung pwedeng dalhin niya ulit dito si Janine. Okay lang
naman daw sa kanya.
Noong Saturday ay bumisita ulit siya. I have never seen anyone as excited as Lee
when they've arrived.
Hindi ko alam na mahilig sa bata si Lee. Wala naman kasing batang nakikita 'to.
"Ngayon alam ko na kung bakit siya nanghihingi ng sanggol." Binaba ni manang ang
meryenda namin sa bilog na lamesa.
Andyan siya lagi kasama ko para tignan silang naglalaro sa garden pero mukhang wala
namang mangyayaring masama dahil magaling mag-alaga si Lee. She's even the one
feeding and changing the baby.
"Tuwang tuwa nga po siya, eh."
"Nakikita ko nga at nakikita ko ring nagiging mabuti siyang ina."
"I can see that too."
"Naku! Kailangan mo na ata siyang bigyan ng sanggol, hijo." Natatawa niyang sabi.
Alam kong inaalala niya ung pag uusap nila ni Lee.
"Soon, manang. May aalagaan ka na 'pag nangyari 'yon."
"Hijo, tiyak na di ako kailangan para dyan dahil magagampanan ng maayos yan ng
asawa mo. O sya't ako'y magluluto na ng hapunan natin."
Puno ng tawanan at saya ang namutawi dito sa bahay lalo na kapag andyan si Janine.
I was so happy seeing my wife with so much happiness.
'Pag nasa trabaho ako ay lagi akong na e-excite na umuwi. Kahit wala si Janine ay
masaya siya dahil kay Softie.
"Ma, can I ask a favor?" Sabado ngayon at nandito ako sa dining room habang
hinihintay si Lee. Kakatapos lang namin ni Manang na ihanda ang mga pagkain.
"Of course, hijo. What is it?"
"Can you come over and accompany Lee this day? May meeting po kasi ako ngayon at
aalis si manang after breakfast dahil kailangan daw siya ng anak niya."
"Leanna is my daughter, Osias. Kahit ano pa 'yan basta para sa kanya. I'll bring
Penelope also para naman makapag-bonding sila. Sinusolo mo na kasi si Lee, eh."
"Wala po siyang taping?"
"Wala. We'll be there after an hour."
I said thanks before she ended the call. Dumating si Lee at agad na umupo sa mga
hita ko. Nasanay na siya sa gano'ng lagay namin.
"Good morning, my wife."
"Good...m-morning, husband." Sinalubong niya ang halik ko bago maghanda sa pagkain.
"Anong gusto mong breakfast?"
"E-eggs, hotd-og and ham."
"Eggs, hotdog and ham."
Nilagay ko sa plato namin ang gusto niya. Salitan kaming sinusubuan ko. Nilapag ko
ang kutsara at inayos ang pagkakaupo niya. Dinampot niya ang kutsara at umambang
susubuan ako.
Napangiti muna bago ko ito tinanggap. Pinunasan ko ang butil ng pagkain sa gilid ng
labi niya habang abala siya sa pagpuputol ng ham.
Ako na ang nag-ayos at naghuhas ng napagkainan namin dahil umalis na si manang

Josie. Naka ready na ko sa pag alis nang dumating sina mama Anita at Penelope.
"Bakit ikaw lang ang sumalubong, Osias? Where's Leanna?" I kissed them both on the
cheeks before answering.
"Nasa taas po. I'm not sure what happened. She looked upset about something.
"Don't worry, Oz. Ako na ang bahala sa kanya."
"For the nth time, Penelope. Drop the nickname."
"Pareho kayong dalawa. Ang arte niyo. I'm gonna see what Lee's doing. Bye, Osias."
"Thanks, Penelope." Her back faced us before wiggling her fingers. "Ma, ikaw nang
bahala."
"I'll take care of everything. Sige na't baka ma late ka pa. You're the owner's
son-in-law but we wouldn't like some rumors such as special treatment going around,
right?"
Napatingin ako sa oras at napabuntong hininga. Male-late na nga ako. Gusto ko

sanang punatahan muna si Lee bago ako umalis. She's upset and she won't tell me. Di
bale, andyan na naman silang dalawa para i okupa ang oras ni Lee.
Marami akong ginawang trabaho ngayong araw. Mas lalo ko pang naramdaman ang bigat
dahil wala na naman si Jackie.
Kainis! Alam naman niyang kailangan pa naming samahan si papa ngayong araw para sa
contract signing, eh. Bakit ngayon pa?
Nagtext si mama habang nasa office pa 'ko at nag-o over time. Umuwi na daw sila
dahil dumating na si manang Josie.
Umuwi na sila? Bakit? Ang akala ko sa'min sila maghahapunan?
I checked the time. It said 10:36 pm.
Shït! Did I really over worked that long? Pati hapunan nakalimutan ko. Nangako pa
naman ako kay Lee na uuwian ko siya ng cake para as dessert. Sira ulo ka talaga
Osias!
Niligpit ko ang gamit ko at bumaba sa parking lot. Nakalimutan ko naring mag reply
kay mama dahil sa pagmamadali.
Binuksan ko ang pintuan sa driver's seat. Basta ko nalang initsa ang satchel ko sa
kabilang upuan. Sumakay ako at agad na pinaandar ang sasakyan.
Dumaan muna ako sa 24 hour-bake shop. Minsan talaga hindi magandang subsob sa
trabaho eh. 'Yan tuloy! Tulog na asawa ang nadatnan ko.
Hihingi nalang ako ng sorry sa kanya bukas.
Tomorrow came. May kakaiba akong napansin sa kanya. Ganito ba kalaki ang tampo niya
sa'kin?
Pagkagising ko wala na siya. Nang makita ko siya sa salaa, ilang beses ko pa siyang
tinawag bago humarap but she won't talk to me.
She won't even look at me. Parang mas maganda pang tignan ang sahig. Ni ayaw niyang
pansinin ung cake na binili ko. She's too cold and reserve. Not only to me but to
everyone. Parang bumalik ung dating siya nung unang dumating ako. Mas matindi pa.
What am I going to do now?

Chapter 7
"LILLY, diba sabi ko sa'yo ung unang kontrata kay Mr. Zila not the current!
Pakipalitan naman 'to. Please lang."
"Pasensya na po, sir."
"Just give me that file."
Hindi ko napigilan ang inis. Agad itong tumalima at kinuha ung file na iniabot ko.
Pa'no ba naman kasi. Ilang beses na siyang nagkamali. Hindi ko alam kung talagang
sinasadyang inisin niya 'ko o hindi. Kanina pa siya, eh. Nakakainis na talaga.
"What crawled up your bütt this day?" Jackie threw a question.
"I'm not in the mood."
"Halata nga." Kahit minsan ay hindi ko siya tinapunan ng tingin. Nakapako lang ang
mga mata ko sa mga tambak na trabaho.
"Kahapon, nakatapak ako ng pusa. Ang laki no'n diba pero di ko nakita..." Salita
siya ng salita. Tawa ng tawa. I couldn't even entertain her jokes right now. This
is just not my day.
"Alam mo, hindi magandang dinadala ang problema sa bahay dito sa opisina."
That pissed me off more. I scoffed. Look who's talking. "Sana gano'n din ang
ginagawa mo diba? You should've considered that phrase for yourself."
"Are you throwing this issue on me now? This is so childish of you." It was
supposed to be a joke based with her tone but I coudn't get it.
"Well kung hindi ka absent nang absent, hindi sana hindi tambak ang trabaho natin
ngayon. I'm not even in the mood to at least entertain your poor sense of humor.
May problema din kayo nung Rick diba kaya 'wag mong punahin yung sa'kin."
My voice was calm with sarcasm. Nakuha niya ang patama. Hindi siya makapaniwala sa
sinabi ko at napasinghap. Nagbago din ito agad at blangkong tingin ang pinukol
sa'kin. Now, all I can see is a lawyer fighting its case. Lumalabas ang pagka
lawyer niya.
"'Wag mong ibato sa'kin ang sisi dito. Hindi ba sa ginagawa mong 'to, sa tingin mo
hindi to unprofessionalism, huh? You're being a jerk because you couldn't handle
your problem properly. Man up, dude."
"And leaving your work to fix your personal problem, isn't?"

"Uh-sir?" Napatingin ako kay Lilly na agad nag-iwa ng tingin sa'kin.
She even can't talk because of the tension between her two bosses.
"Ito na p-po ung file tsaka po may tawag kayo sa line 2."
Sinagot ko agad ito. Line 2 is for the unimportant call. I just needed to divert my
frustration to other things.
Mabuti nalang ay sinagot ko ito dahil galing kay manang Josie ang tawag. May
problema daw sa bahay.
Basta ko nalang kinuha ang bag ko at umalis.
"Hindi lang ikaw ang may problema sa mundo." Mababang sabi ni Jackie habang palabas
ako. Her voice was stained with pain.
I know. Alam ko ring maliit lang kung tutuusin ang problema ko kaysa sa iba.
Ano nga bang problema ko? Ay oo nga pala. My problem is that Lee's still not
talking to me for days. Uggh! Days!
But problem is still a problem whether big or small. May iba lang na taong mas
magaling humawak ng problema nila. Nevertheless, I'm still a person with a problem
and people should be sensitive enough and respect that.
Ang galing niyang magsalita. Gano'n din naman siya.
Hindi lang rin siya ang may problema sa mundo.
Malungkot at parang balisa si manang nang maabutan ko. Nasa kitchen siya at
naghahanda para sa pagluluto. She didn't even notice me came.
"Manang, anong problema?" She looked over her shoulders.
Lalong tumaas ang pag aalala niya. Lumapit siya sa'kin at hinawakan ang braso ko.
"Naku, Osias. Ang asawa mo..."
"Bakit ho? Anong nangyari?"
"'Hindi ko rin alam. Nagkulong ata sa taas. Hindi pa siya lumalabas sa kwarto. Nag-
aalala na 'ko."
"Did she eat something after breakfast?" Konti lang ang agahang kinain niya kanina
kaya nagbilin ako kay manang na pakainin siya ulit. Hapon na. Ibig sabihin wala pa
siyang kinain mula kaninang umaga?
Umling ito. "Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko kaya tinawagan na kita. Naalala ko
ganyan din siya dati noong mga panahong wala ka. Isang linggo siyang hindi
nakakain. Baka kasi maulit 'yon. Naku, kung nakita mo lang siya no'n, maawa ka rin.
Nawalan siya ng malay at na-ospital. Puntahan mo na siya, hijo."
"What? B-Bakit walang nagsabi sa'kin no'n?"
"Ang alam ko tinawagan ka ni ma'am no'n pero hindi ka daw ma-kontak. May operation
'ata daw kayo."
May dinukot si manang sa bulsa ng kanyang apron. Kinuha niya ang kamay ko at
nilagay niya do'n. "Iyan ang susi ng kwarto niyo. Dalian mo na at puntahan siya't
para makakain."
Hindi ko alam kung anong mararamdaman ko dahil sa gulat. I also didn't remember
that call. Kung may mga tawag man kaming natatanggap ay agad na sinasabi sa'min ni
Captain pagbalik. Bakit hindi sinabi ni Captain 'yon?
That's not important now. What's more important is the person locked upstairs.
"Lee!? Cuddle cakes!?"
Wala siya pagbukas ko. Asan siya? Bakit wala siya dito? That's impossible. I went
straight to the bathroom but she's not there also.
"Lee? Nasa'n ka!?" Hinawi ko ang shower curtains. Wala ni isang bakas niya dito.
Nasa'n ka na ba Lee? "Manang! Manang!"
Lumabas ako at tinawag si manang. I couldn't find her anywhere. Baka naman lumabas
siya kanina? Pero naka lock ang pinto. Pa'no siya makakalabas?
Nakuha ang atensyon ko ang malaking cabinet. The door was ajar. Parang may humihila
sa'kin para lapitan ito. Nagpadala ako sa instinct ko at wala akong sinayang na
segundo para buksan 'yon.
Pinaghahawi ko sa gilid ang mga naka hanger na damit hanggang sa makita ko siya.
It's like air got knocked off me. Parang nanlambot ang mga tuhod ko habang tumambol
ng sobrang lakas ang puso ko sa nakita.
There she was, lying and curled up in a ball.
My legs were shaking but I pushed myself to pick her up. Mainit sa loob. Did she
fainted or what? Bakit siya nandito? Mas gusto kong isiping natutulog lang siya
habang nasa mga bisig ko.
"Diyos ko, hijo. Anong nangyari!?" Narinig ko ang natatarantang tinig ni manang.
Naabutan niya 'kong binibuhat ito palabas ng kabinet.
"Call the doctor, manang. Tsaka penge narin po ng tubig.
Binaba ko siya sa kama. Humahangos si manang palabas. Pinagmasdan kong mabuti ang
itsura ng asawa kong malambing ang tulog.
She was just sleeping, Osias. 'Wag kang kabahan! Tignan mo, oh...Maayos ang
paghinga niya.
Tila ba parang tubig na binuhusan no'n ang nagbabaga kong pag aalala sa kanya.
Yeah, that's right. She's just exhausted. Her breathing's fine.
Useless. I felt useless while waiting for the doctor to arrive. Hawak hawak ko ang
kamay niya habang pinagmamasdan siya. Bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Manang kasama
ang doktor. Tumayo ako, tumabi at binigyan siya ng daan. Si Manang naman ay
halatang hindi parin mapakali.
I was watching the doctor checking on her while thinking what happened. Parang
pinipiga ang puso ko nang maalala ang estado ni Lee nang makita ko. She looked so
broken inside that cabinet. But why?
Ganito ba kalala ang pagtatampo niya sa'kin? She locked herself in the room and
strayed in the cabinet. I shook my head and kept thinking deeper. That was just too
shallow.
Sa pagtatampo lang ba talaga 'to? O may koneksyon ba 'to sa panginginig niya no'n?
"What happened to my daughter?" Lumapit agad si Papa sa doktor.
Nasa salas kami. Kasama niya sila mama at Penelope na dumating habang nasa taas pa
ang doktor. Mama immediately stood beside him, face full of worries for her
daughter. Ako rin ay lumapit na habang si Penelope ay tinapos ang tawag sa phone
niya pero nanatiling nakaupo at nakatanaw.
"Wala naman akong nakikitang problema. She's perfectly fine."
"Pero bakit gano'n, doc. Ilang araw na siyang matamlay." Pagbusisi ko.
"Nothing's wrong with her physically so baka sa ibang bahagi niya nanggagaling
'yon."
"What do you mean, doc?"
"Napansin kong may mga pasa at konting sugat sa katawan. Lalo na sa upper arm niya
but I'm not sure if they were self inflicted o hindi lalo na't sa kaliwang braso
lang. Maari kasing nahimatay siya tapos tumama sa kung sa'n since unconscious siya
nang makita kanina."
Napasighap si Mama. "Oh, no. Do you think that Lee's going through that again?"
"Is this the one that manang mentioned? Yung naospital siya no'n?" I told them what
manang had told me earlier and they had confirmed it.
Narinig ko ang paghugot ni Papa ng malalim na hininga.
"She suffered depression when you were gone and it's happening again." Aniya.
"Pero okay naman siya nung bumisita kami ni mommy, diba my?"
"That's right. Pero napansin ko no'n na medyo matamlay na siya. She's too quiet and
reserved, that's the problem. Hindi rin kasi nagsasabi ng saloobin 'yan."
"The most important thing right now is too keep an eye on her since we don't know
yet what triggers her depression. Ipakita niyong andyan kayo lagi para sa kanya.
Show her that she's loved para mabawasan ang depression niya. I'll communicate with
her psychiatrist about this. Baka mas may alam siya sa kalagayan ni Mrs. Alcazar."
"Hindi mo na kailangang gawin 'yan, doc?"
"Are you sure, Mr. Alcazar?"
"Oo nga, Osias. Mas makakabuti kung titignan si Lee ng psychiatrist. She's also the
one who supervised her sickness before."
"Mama, wala po siyang sakit. Ako na mismo ang mag aalaga sa kanya. Trust me. Hindi
niya na kailangan ng psychiatrist. Tama si doc nang sabihin niyang kailangan niya
lang ng makakasama. This also happened under my care kaya dapat lang na ako ang
aalis ng depression niya. Pa, okay lang po ba sa inyo na mawala muna ako sa office
kahit dalawang araw lang?"
"O sige, Osias."
"I can help too. Dadalaw ako para mag-alaga sa kanya. As her sister, I should be
there when she's in need."
"Salamat, Penelope but I know you're busy with work and stuff. Ako na munang
bahala."
"Osias, let us help. We're a family here." Komento ni mama.
"I know that, ma."
"Then why won't-"
"Tama na 'yan, Anita. Let Osias handle this. Lee is now her responsibility.
Kailangan niya 'yang gawin bilang asawa."
Pinal na sabi papa. Umiling si Penelope while mama sighed in defeat.
"Pwede naman po kayong dumalaw. I'm not forbidding you on anything but I just
wanted to know what's the cause of all this."
That's right. I need to find out. Hindi lang ito, pati na rin ung araw na nanginig
siya sa takot. May pinanggagalingan ito at bilang asawa niya, tatanggalin ko lahat
ng bumabagabag sa kanya.
Chapter 8
ILANG ARAW na simula nang mangyari 'yon at kahit papa'no ay bumuti na ang
pakiramdan ni Lee. Naglalaho na rin ang ilang pasa niya sa braso na nakuha niya
nung nahimatay siya.
Ang hindi ko lang mawari ay minsan nakakausap ko na siya then the next day,
malungkot na naman ito. She won't talk and won't even move. Kapag nangyayari 'yon,
parang bumabalik sa zero ang progress namin. Kagaya nalang ngayon.
"Kahit isa na lang, Lee..." Inilapit ko ang kutsara sa bibig niya.
Kanina ko pa siya sinusubuan pero nakaka tatlong subo palang siya. Iniwas niya ang
mukha dito. Bumuntong hininga ako at binaba ang kutsara. Hindi pwedeng laging
ganito. Kailangan niyang kumain.
Bumaba ako sa stool. Lumuhod at hinawakan ang mga kamay niya. Since that day
happened, dito na kami kumakain sa kusina. Nagsimula akong mag research tungkol sa
depression at mas maganda daw na laging komportable ang mga meron nito.
"Lee, please eat. Kahit kalahati lang ng nasa plato mo. I'll eat the rest if you
want..."
Nag angat siya ng mukha at nagtama ang aming mga paningin.
Unti unti na 'kong nawawalan ng lalas ng loob sa tuwing nakikita ko ang mga mata
nita. Those eyes.
I remember them being bright and colorful, full of emotions but now they're very
dull.
Lifeless.
Broken.
May mga pagkakataong hindi ko na alam ang gagawin pero kailangan kong maging
matatag at malakas para sa kanya. I wanna be her rock. The one that she could hold
on in times like this.
She needs me more than ever.
"Lee, you're my wife. You're important to me. You're life is important to me. So,
please kumain ka na. I'm here for you at nandito lang ako hanggang sa matapos lahat
ng 'to, okay?"
No response.
"Gusto mo bang makita si Janine ngayon? How about playing with Softie all day?
D'you want that?"
Biglang lumamlam ang anyo ng kanyang mga mata. Halos madurog ang puso ko sa nakita.
Mas nawalan ng kulay at kinang.
One thing that frightens me is that she won't cry. Alam ko malungkot ka and the
normal thing to so is to cry but she's too quiet. Kinabahan ako kagaya ngayon.
"S-Sof...tie..." Nabuhayan ako ng loob. Malungkot man siya pero kahit papa'no ay
sumagot parin siya.
"Yes, cuddle cakes. Maglalaro tayo kasama si Softie mamaya, okay? Manang!"
Tumayo ako at hinalikan sa noo si Lee. Niyakap ko siya. Her arms wrapped around my
waist in return. At last! Rumisponde na siya.
"Ano 'yon, hijo."
"Manang, pakuha naman po ung aso. Gusto pong makipaglaro ni Lee sa kanya."
"Nagsalita na ba siya?"
"Opo, manang."
"Ay sandali lang..." Kasing tuwa ng reaksyon ko ang kay manang kaya't nagmadali ito
agad.
"Softie..." Humigpit ang kampit niya. Niyuko ko siya. Bakit imbes na masaya ay mas
lalong lumungkot ang boses niya?
Bumalik si Manang nang nakakunot ang noo. Hindi niya kasama ung pinakuha ko.
"Nasa'n po ung aso?"
"Hindi ko alam, hijo."
"Wala po ba sa dog house?"
Umiling ito na ikinasalubong ng mga kilay ko. "Hinanap ko na rin sa buong bahay
pero wala."
"Have you checked the garden?"
"Oo. Ngayon ko lang napansin na wala siya. Ang totoo, ilang araw ko nang hindi
nakikita ang asong 'yon. Noon kasama lagi ni Lee yo'n tapos pumupunta sa dog house
ng kusa kaya akala ko ando'n lang siya."
"Wala po bang nag-aalagang iba kay Softie? Yung nagpapakain sa kanya."
"Naalala ko tinanong ako ni Tammy no'n. Hinahanap niya rin si Softie. Ang sabi niya
baka nakawala o lumabas at hindi nakauwi. Ipapaalam ko sana kaso nakaligtaan kong
sabihin sa'yo dahil nga sa pag-aalala ng lahat kay Leanna. Pasensya ka na, hijo."
Niyuko kong muli si Lee at hinawakan ang balikat bago bahagyang ilayo sa'kin. I
looked at her eyes that were already shedding tears.
"Is that why you were depressed, Lee? Dahil nawala si Softie?" Dahan dahan ang
kanyang pagtango at suminghot.
Kung gan'on ay yun pala ang dahilan. I was wrong with my first guess. Akala ko
dahil naiilang siya sa ibang tao. Noong nakaraang araw kasi ay bumisita si Penelope
kasama ang boyfriend niya, si Terrence.
Nagulat pa ako dahil dalawang taon na palang may nobyo ito. Hindi man lang nagkwe
kwento.
Lee was doing well before they arrived then her emotions went down again after.
Nalaman ko din na pinapunta ni Penelope ito nung araw na sinamahan nila si Lee.
Mabait naman ung boyfriend si Terrence pero ilang lang talaga ang asawa ko sa ibang
tao.
It's Monday and I'm expected to report for work but Lee still needs me that's why I
called in sick.
She's now getting better. She's responding pero minsan lang sumagot. It's okay. I
was able to understand her well enough without her talking and I know she's
excited.
Maaga pa kaya wala pang ganong tao sa opisina. Since kailangan ay maaga kami ni
Lee, maglalagay nalang ako ng note sa desk ni Jackie para magbilin kung anong mga
gagawin sa papeles na iiwan ko.
Pinihit ko ang seradura at tinulak ang pinto. Hindi ko pa tuluyang nabubuksan ito
gaano nang marinig ko ang boses ni Jackie.
She sounded frustrated. I hesitated to enter and just took a glance. May kausap
siya sa phone. Nakahawak sa noo ang isang kamay habang nakatayo sa harap ng kanyang
lamesa.
"Why would she do that? For Pete's sake, Ricky. She's also my mother! 'Wag mung
ipamukhang wala akong pake dahil nahihirapan din ako!"
Those were her last words before she cut the call with fury. Marahas din ang
maghugot niya ng hininga bago umupo sa upuan niya. Nakakunot ang noo niya at kagat
kagat ang labi. Malungkot. Halatang malaki ang problema.
Guilt engulfs me. Naalala ko kung anong inakto ko sa kanya no'n. Tama ang sinabi
niyang napaka unprofessional ko.
I sighed. Kailangan kong mag-sorry sa kanya. I was a jerk to her and I felt guilty.
Pati siya ay nadamay pa sa problema ko e mukang mas malaki ang problema niya.
Few sobs were heard from the room. Umiiyak siya. Papasok ba 'ko o hindi? Baka mas
makakabuti kung hayaan ko na lang muna siya.
In the end, I decided to enter. Sa palagay ko ay mas maganda kung may kasama siya
sa ganito. I just hope that she won't push me away like the dumb-ss I was.
"Here..." Napapitlag siya at madaling nagpunas ng mga luha. Halatang nagulat na

nakita ako sa harap niya habang inaabutan siya ng panyo.
"Kanina ka pa dyan?" tumayo siya at ginawang busy ang sarili sa mga file na nasa
stack rack sa likod. Hinawakan ko ang balikat niya at iniharap.
"Malinis 'yan." She looked at what I was offering, thinking if she would accept
it. I moved my hand closer, encouraging her.
"Salamat." Halos pabulong niyang sabi matapos itong tanggapin.
Pinapakiramdaman ko pa rin siya habang kinukuha ang file sa bag ko. Inilapag ko ito
sa lamesa niya at ang bag ko sa sahig bago sabihin ang dapat gawin.
"Hindi ko pa na-revise 'yan pero na ka note na kung anong dapag baguhin sa

kontrata. You need to send it after to Mr. President then CC the board..."
Tumango siya pero alam kong hindi siya nakikinig. Bumwelo muna ako ng hangin bago
magsalita.
"I'm sorry..."
"For what?"
"For being such a jerk last time. Iniisip ko lang ang problema ko. Instead of
thanking you for trying to lighten the mood, I lashed out. I should've thought of
your feelings too. Pasensya na..."
"It's o-okay..." Ngumiti siya ng pilit.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Agad niyang pinunasan ang tumakas na luha. Madiing
kinagat ang ibabang labi at nagpunas ulit ng luha. Halatang hindi siya handa.
Bigla kong naalala si Lee. Pareho sila ngayon. How they looked when sad, crying and
hurting inside.
Parang may kumurot sa dibdib ko. Ayokong makita ang isang gaya niyang masayahin sa
ganitong sitwasyon.
I reached my arms towards her and engulfed her in a hug. Naningas siya ng konti.
She was nervous and a bit uncomfortable. Hinaplos ko pataas baba ang likod niya
gaya ng ginagawa ko kay Lee para kumalma. It worked.
"You'll get through this. You're a strong woman..."
Seconds later, her shoulders shook. She's crying. Gumanti siya ng yakap sa aking
bewang. Isinubsob nya ang mukha sa aking dibdib habang patuloy na umiiyak. I just
let her as I comfort her with gentle strokes of my palms against her back. She
needs this now and I'm here for her.
Maya maya ay naramdaman kong kumalma na siya.
"Do I really have p-poor sense of humor?" Pumiyok siya bago tumawa ng mahina.
"'Wag kang magagalit, ah but... yes. Yung tawa mo ang nakakatawa." Tumawa muli siya
habang nasa bisig ko. Dahil do'n ay alam kong okay na siya.
"Thank you..."
"Nag tha-thank you ka dahil sinabihan kitang korni?"
"Sira." Hinampas niya ang dibdib ko bago lumayo.
I chuckled. "I get it. Nag thank you ka dahil sa panyo."
"Oo. Dahil sa panyo at hindi ko na 'to ibabalik."
"That's fine with me. Ayoko na niyan. May sipon mo na 'yan, eh."
Naningkit ang mga mata niya. We just look at each other for a sec. Naging malambot
ang mga tingin niya sakin bigla. Ngumiti siya ng tunay at ngumiti rin ako pabalik
dahil alam kong okay na talaga siya.
"Sige na. I'll go ahead. Yung kontrata nga pala hindi ko pa na-"
"Oo na. Narinig kiya kanina. I know what to do." She said confidently.
Napangiti ulit ako at umiling. Okay? Nakinig pala siya kanina.
"Thank you ulit..." Her voice was genuine. "Sa panyo."
"You're welcome. Kung kailangan mo pa, meron pa 'ko, okay?"
"Umalis ka na nga!" Pagtataboy niya sa'kin at umismid.
"Yes, ma'am." I singsonged before leaving.
Hindi mawala ang ngiti ko nang nagpasalamat siya dahil sa panyo. Alam ko ang nais
niyang iparating. She's a strong woman and I know she won't directly admit what
she's thankful of.
Good thing that I could catch that hidden message. Sa palagay ko specialty ko na
'yon. I just hope, kung ano man ang problema niya, masolusyonan na agad.
Chapter 9
PAGUD NA PAGOD si Lee nang makarating kami sa bahay. Sa kabila no'n ay alam kong
masayang masaya siya at dahil do'n guminhawa ang pakiramdam ko.
I know that she's back to her old self. I'm happy. I'm ecstatic rather. Pagod din
ako pero kapag nakikita kong nagbalik na ang kinang at saya sa mga mata ni Lee,
nawawala ito agad.
Kumuha ako ng baso at sinalinan ko ng tubig. Ibinalik ko ang pistel sa ref at

lumabas ng kusina.
Natagpuan ko si Lee na nakahiga sa sofa. She was there with her arms stretching.
Her hair was braided on the side. Sa bawat galaw niya ay nadedepina ang hubog ng
kanyang katawan. So sexy, so hot and innocent at the same time.
God, Lee, what are you doing to me?
Nakita niya ko at pagod na tumingin. Magtataka ako kung hindi siya pagod dahil sa
excitement niya kanina. Patakbu takbo at kung anong tinuturo. Lahat ng rides
gustong sakyan.
"Do you wanna hit the bed?"
"I'm s-sleepy."
Inangat niya ang kanyang mga braso na tila nagpapabuhat.
"Halika nga dito..." Nilapag ko ang baso sa center table at hinila siya paupo. I
cradled her on my lap as she buried her face on my chest.
"Let's go there again..." Napahinto ako at napangiti. Ito ang unang beses na
nagsalita siya ng diretso. Napansin ko rin na hindi na siya gano'ng nauutal. Ano
kaya kung ipasok ko ulit siya sa speech therapy? There could be good results now.
"We will. Uminom ka muna." Tinanggal ko ang mga nakaharang na buhok sa mukha niya
habang umiinom ito. Ibinalik ko ang baso pagkatapos. "You sure had fun today,
didn't you, cuddle cakes?"
"Y-Yes. Goodnight, B-Blakey." She pecked my lips a kiss and acted like she's ready
to sleep.
"Oh no, cuddle cakes. Hindi ka pa pwedeng matulog. We'll clean you up first."
Ngumuso ito habang nanatiling nakapikit. Those lips were like cherries ready to be
tasted that's why I couldn't help myself but to taste them.
Mas lalo akong ginanahan nang tumugon siya at gumanti ng halik. Gumalaw ang mga
labi niya ng kusa at sumabay sa'kin. I let her dictate the pace. It was gentle and
sweet. Mabagal, banayad pero nakakalasing. She's getting better on this. 'Yan ang
napansin ko.
I couldn't get enough of her lips. Para siyang matamis na droga na umiikot sa buong
sistema ko. I was like a bee drawn to the sweetness of her pollen.
Fvck! I couldn't get enough of her. I need more.
I gently bit her lower lip and tugged it slowly. Bahagya kong binuksan ang aking
mga mata dahil gusto kong makita ang kanyang reaksyon.
Ang isang kamay ko ay humahaplos sa kanyang hita pataas sa kanyang bewang. She
looked so arousing with her eyes closed. The way her chest rise up and down as her
body gets hotter and hotter under my touch. Ang pangingig ng labi niya na
naghihintay ng halik ko.
Such a sight... It's breathtaking.
"B-Blakey..." She took in air with her slightly open mouth. Muli kong dinampi ang
aking nga labi sa kanya. I pushed my tongue in, explore every corners of her mouth
as I took her striking taste.
Humigpit ang kapit niya sa shirt ko. Umungol siya at biglang nag-aalab ang
pagnanais at pagnanasa ang parang bulkang sumabog sa loob ng katawan ko. It was
exploding everywhere, screaming for her.
The hand on her waist crawled up to palmed her breast. It was my turn to let out a
groan when she gently tugged my hair.
Lumayo ako sa mga labi niya at tinignan siyang muli.
"Open your eyes, Lee. Look at me." Gusto kong makita ang mga mata niya. Hindi na ko
nagdalawang salita dahil unting unting dumilat ang mga mata niya. Napangiti ako.
She looked straight to me with those clouded half opened eyes.
"Bla...key..."
"Leanna, my wife."
Ang isang kamay ko ay nakasuporta sa kanyang likod habang ang isa ay marahang
pinipisil ng pabalik balik ang kanyang dibdib. Ramdam ko ang lambot nito kahit may
mga telang nakaharang. They're not big or small. Saktong sakto lang sa palad ko.
They are perfect.
Bawat galaw ko ay ang pangingilabot ng katawan niya. She was giving me the response
I wanted. Eyes looking at me.
Oh, God! This view is so perfect!
Nakakagat siya sa ibabang labi, mapupungay ang mga mata, ang katawan niyang nag-
aalab sa bawat haplos ko. Her entire look's telling me to give her more as she
pants hard.
"W-What are...you...d-doing?" Napahinto ako.
"Shi-I'm sorry, Lee. I lost control."
Napagtanto ko ang ginagawa sa kanya. Agad na natanggal ang kamay ko sa dibdib at

inayos ang pagkakaupo niya to a straddle.
Sira ulo ka talaga, Osias. Hinayaan mong maunahan ka ng pagkatigang mo!
Inabot ko ang baso ng tubig at pinainom ko siyang muli dahil hinihingal pa ito.
Buti nalang ay may natira siya.
"I don't u-understand..."
"I'm sorry."
"Bakit?"
"Did I hurt you? May masakit ba?"
"You...s-squeezed me here..." Tinuro at niyuko niya ang dibdib niya. She was so
innocent for her own good. Baka mawalan na naman ako ng kontrol sa susunod. Dämn
it, Osias!
I sighed and palmed her cheeks before kissing her forehead.
"Anong nararamdaman mo?"
"I don't know... We w-were kis...sing then...you t-touched...m-me. Y-

your...hand..."
"Shh. I understand. You don't need to tell me anything anymore. Nahihirapan ka nang
magsalita. Hindi ko na ulit 'yon gagawin kapag ayaw mo."
Tumango siya at niyakap ako. Ginantihan ko pero nang umurong siya padikit pa sa'kin
ay pasimple ko siyang nilayo.
Oh no, cuddle cakes! There's a dangerous place down there and it's sensing you so
no contact. Kailangan mong lumayo.
Nakita ko na ang pagdating ni manang bago pa niya kami nakita. Dadaan lang siguro
siya papuntang kusina pero nang makita niya kami, ngumiti siya at lumapit.
"Osias? Nakaistorbo ba ko, hijo?"
"Ah, hindi po, manang. Paakyat na po kami ni Lee." Bakit parang dismayado siya?
"Gano'n ba? Dumating kasi kanina si Penelope may kasamang lalaki pero wala kayo.
Sabi niya pupunta daw sila ulit bukas. Kumain na ba kayo?"
Si Terrence siguro ang kasama niya. "Opo. Kumain kami bago umuwi."
Nakatingin lang siya sa'min bago umiling at tumawa. Anong iniisip ni manang?
"Kala ko gagawa na kayo ng sanggol, eh. Sige, hijo at mukang inaantok na ang asawa
mo."
"Baby? Ga-wa tayong b-baby?"
"Hindi, Lee." Muntik na.
Natawa si manang bago kami iwan. Nawala naman ang biglang kinang na kanina'y dumapo
sa mga mata ng asawa ko. Biglang nadismaya. Hay, Lee...
Naalala ko ang sinabi ni manang. "Do you want Penelope and Terrence here tomorrow?"
Yumuko ito at halatang naiilang sumagot. Sabi ko na nga ba. Ayaw niya ng ibang tao
dito. Ilang pa din siya.
"Hindi sila pupunta dito 'pag ayaw mo. Naiilang ka ba sa kanila?" Hindi na naman
siya sumagot. Bumuntong hininga ako at di na siya pinilit.
Halata namang ayaw niya, eh.
Binuhat ko siya paakyat ng kwarto namin. Naghanda muna ako ng pamalit namin bago
siya dalhin sa banyo. Magkatabi kaming nag toothbrush sa harap ng salamin.
Nakakatuwa siyang panoorin habang seryoso sa ginagawa.
Nauna siyang lumabas. I found her sitting on the bed with her hands up. Hinawakan
ko ang laylayan ng damit niya at inangat.
It's not the first time I get to see her body. Actually, I get to see her everyday
like this. Natural lang 'yon dahil ako ang umaalalay sa kanya bago matulog. Ang
kaso lang, ako ang medyo naiilang dahil sa nangyari kanina. Medyo nag iinit pa nga
ako ngayon.
Hindi na ko nag-overtime kinabukasan sa opisina. Gusto kong umuwi ng maaga kahit pa

okay na si Lee. Dumaan na rin ako sa opisina ni papa para ipaalam ang kalagayan
niya. Nagsabi itong bibisita bukas o sa makalawa.
Hindi ako mahilig manood ng koreanovela pero nasa salas ako ngayon katabi si Lee at
nanonood. Tungkol sa buhay ng mag-asawa ang istorya pero hindi ko naman
maintindihan dahil hindi naman talaga ako nanonood.
Akbay ng braso ko ang balikat niya habang tutok na tutok ito sa panonood. Kailan pa
ba siya nahilig sa mga ganitong palabas?
"Sir Osias, may bisita po kayong dumating." Nilingon ko si Tammy. Tumango lang ako
at nagpasalamat bago tignan kung sino 'yon.
"Mom!"
"Osias, anak!" Agad kong niyakap si mom. I felt the same squeezing hug she always
gives me. I really missed her.
"Buti naman ay naalala mo pa kung sino ako." Taas kilay niyang sabi.
"Of course, mom. Ikaw ang taong hindi ko makakalimutan kahit magka-amnesia ako."
"Then why didn't you visit me. Dalawang linggo na 'kong nakabalik at 'wag mong
sabihing dahil sa trabaho."
"Gano'n na nga po. Sorry, my."
"Is it really about work or your wife?"
"Mom, naman..."
All I could say to my mom is that she's strict, very strict. May pagkamataray din
siya at napaka sosyal. She was born in wealth as well as my father.
Hindi siya nagbago. Maikli parin ang buhok niya with a bob cut style. Eyes with
analyzing looks, thin lips and small pointed nose. Ayos na ayos ito. Always the
sophisticated mother I know.
"Mommy Betty!" Nagulat ako ng biglang dumaan si Lee sa gilid ko. Tumatakbo ito
payakap kay mom.
"Hmmm. H-Hi, Leanna." She awkwardly tapped Lee's back, wincing. I think it was
supposed to be her hug.
Oh! And did I forget to mention that she didn't like the fact that I married Lee?
Hindi nawawala ang malawak na ngiti ni Lee kay mom hanggang humiwalay ito. Alam
kong hindi alam ni mom kung pa'no pakikitunguhan si Lee pero nagpapasalamat naman
ako sa kanya dahil ginagalang niya parin ang asawa ko. She's civil to her but Lee
on the other hand is fond of her. Very fond of her.
"Dito ka na kumain, mom. Sa tingin ko nakalatag na ang pagkain."
"That's the plan para naman magkausap tayo."
Tumango ako at binalingan si Lee. "Can you inform manang to add another set on the
table?"
"Okay." Pagkaalis ni Lee ay lumapit sa'kin si mom.
"Teach your wife to call me Bethany, not Betty."

"She's still gonna keep on calling you that no matter what." I said amused.
She shook her head. "I hate nicknames."
"Dad called you hotshots..."
"That's different. Your father was an exemption. Maliban sa kanya, I cringe when
people drop nicknames on me."
I chuckled at that. Ngayon ay alam ko na kung sa'n ko nakuha ang pagka di gusto ko
sa mga nicknames.
"Me too, mom. Me too."

Chapter 10
NAGLILIBUT LIBOT ako sa mall. Binilhan ko si Lee ng stuffed toy na aso.
Yung tungkol naman kay Softie, hindi ko na ito nabanggit sa kanya. 'Pag lumalapit
kami sa dog house ay lumulungkot ang itsura niya kaya alam kong nami miss niya
parin ito kahit na sandaling araw lang sila nagsama. Mami miss ko din ang asong
'yon.
Mas maganda pa 'tong binili ko. Hindi marunong tumakas at hindi na kailangang
pakainin.
May usapan kami ni Renz na magkikita ngayon. Pupunta rin kasi siya dito para daw
may bilhin. Nagkita kami sa tapat ng TelLines.
Maya maya ay nakita ko na siya tulak tulak ang isang baby trolley. Lumapit na 'ko
nang makita niya pero lumuhod ako para at sinilip si Janine.
"Hello, Baby Janine. This is for you." Ibinigay ko sa kanya ang isang maliit na dog
stuffed toy. She immediately took it laughing and played with it.
"Mukang ang dami mong pinamili, ah." I commented when I saw the bags he's carrying.
It was a lot.
"Kay Janine lahat ng ito..."
"Wala ba siyang yaya? You're always with her. Buti kaya mo..."
Naputol ang pagsagot niya when Janina babbled dada. I saw how his stone hard stares
shone as he smiled down to his daughter. Binuhat niya ito at sandaling nilaro.
"Ayokong iba ang mag-alaga sa kanya. I want to have deep connections to her.
Mababaliw ako 'pag nawala rin siya. I don't even want her away even from my sight.
Siya lang ang nagpapaalala sa mommy niya and I want to be a hands on father. I lost
her mother and I won't have that on Janine at gusto ko na 'pag dumating siya, sabay
niya kaming makikita ng anak namin. We'll wait kahit ga'no pa katagal. Diba, my
princess? We'll wait for mommy."
He was smiling but I knew he's sad. Bilib din ako sa kanya. Kinakaya niyang
maghintay kahit malaki ang posibilidad na hindi na babalik ang mommy ni Janine.
He already told me his story. He made a mistake for letting the woman he loved go
and now he's paying the price of his stupidity. That's according to him.
Kung may maitutulong lang sana ako. I really wanted to help pero nung sinabi niya
kung anong nangyari, kung ako 'yon, hindi na 'ko aasa.
But I'm not in his shoes. Maybe he's still hoping because he has something. His
love for her is enough to keep on waiting for the almost impossible moment to
happen.
"How's Leanna?"
"She's doing great. Bibili rin pala ako ng cake niya mamaya after nito. What do you
think about this?" Ipinakita ko sa kanya ang isang latest unit ng cellphone.
"Mahilig ba siya sa mga gadgets?"
I shrugged. "She doesn't have one. Kaya nga bibili ako para sa kanya so I can check
on her every time."
"Choose anything with higher memory. Download many games. I'm sure she's not gonna
mind the brand or type."
I think about it then nod in agreement. Pantawag lang naman 'to para sa kanya.
Anything will do but I choose the latest one.
"Wala ka na bang dadaanan?" Tanong ko habang papunta kami sa elevator. I noticed

people staring at us especially, the women. They're very obvious on eyeing us.
Nagbubulungan tapos tatawa ng mahina sa kilig.
Hindi ko nalang pinansin. Madalas din kaming makakuha ng gano'n dati no'ng mga
binata pa kami. We'll go ahead and entertain them but not anymore. I'm married and
Renz' heart is married. Hindi na kami pwede.
I just hope na hindi gay couple ang tingin sa'min. That would be awkward.
"No. But I have a meeting in two hours."
"Let's get something to eat."
"Sige. Baka nagugutom narin si Janine."
Past dinner na nang dumatin ako but I got right on time for dessert.
"Lee, I'm home!" Ang lawak ng ngiti ko nang makita ko agad siyang kumakaripas ng
takbo matapos kong sumigaw.
She was giggling and I opened my arms for a welcome hug. Handa na 'kong yakapin
siya pero nadismaya ako nang ung box ng cake lang ang pinansin siya.
She took it from my hands and ran away, leaving me frowning.
Where's my welcome kiss? Iniwan niya 'ko dito ng hindi binibigyan ng kiss? Mas
mahal niya pa ata ung cake.
Para akong tangang nagseselos sa isang box ng cake nang papunta ako sa kusina. I
saw Lee eagerly opening the box. Manang looked over her shoulder and saw me. She
was washing the dishes.
"Kamusta, hijo."
"Hi, manang."
Do'n lang napatingin sa'kin si Lee na parang hindi niya 'ko nakita kanina. Naging
mas malawak ang ngiti niya at tumakbo palapit sa'kin. She threw her arms around my
neck. Napayuko ako at nagulat nang gawaran niya ko ng halik.
"Welcome home... h-husband." Agad din siyang lumayo at pinagpatuloy ang ginagawa at
naiwan na naman akong nagulat niya.
"Ang sweet naman ng asawa mo, Osias." Natatawang sabi ni Manang.
"Kaso mas mukang mahal niya ung cake, manang."
"That's not t-true." Lee looked at me with brow creased. Agad akong napahinto sa
pagtawa at ngumiti sa kanya.
"Of course not, cuddle cakes. I know you like me more than cakes."
I kissed the top her head just the time where manang was placing a fork and saucer
on the table. She looked with knowing smiles before continued cleaning.
Kinagabihan ay pareho na kaming antuk na antok. Ako dahil sa trabaho at siya naman
ay sa pabalik balik na pag lock ng mga pinto at bintana.
Pinakita ko na kanina sa kanya ang nga binili ko. As I guessed, she loved the
stuffed dog more than the phone. Tinuruan ko na rin siya sa paggamit ng phone.
Tutuk na tutok siya nang ipakita ko ung speed dial diretso sa number ko. She's so
cute with her forehead crunched down, showing that she wanted to learn.
I heard her yawn. It's already late. Nakaupo siya sa pagitan ng mga hita ko sa dulo
ng kama. Sinusuklay ko ang kanyang mahabang buhok para ipitan. She's so sexy on my
shirt. I wanted her to wear something of mine and she was so good in it.
"There. All done." Humikab ulit siya habang kinukusot ang isang mata. Humarap siya
sa'kin at agad akong niyakap ng mahigpit.
Mukang nakatulog na ata agad...
Inilapag ko ang suklay sa nightstand at umurong habang buhat buhat siya. I laid her
in bed carefully not to wake her up.
Ang higpit ng yakap niya sa'kin. Nakakatuwa dahil parang ayaw niya kong bitawan.
"Goodnight, my wife." I kissed her forehead and drift myself to a deep sleep.
Waking up is part of everyone's life but waking up hugging with cute wife is part
of my beautiful perfect life.
May ngiti sa mga labi ko habang maingat na tinatanggal ang mga braso. I didn't want
to wake her yet. Six am is early for her.
When I successfully gone out of bed quietly, I gave her one final look, smiling
down before kissing her and did my preparations for work.
Gising na siya nang lumabas ako sa banyo. Nakaupo siya sa kama habang kinukusot ang
isang mata, humihikab. Her legs were in my full view with the way her legs bent
back as she sits. Dämn-she's so cute. Kung pwede lang yakapin siya buong araw.
Shirt ko nalang kaya ang pantulog niya. Pwede.
Work became light. Binabawi kasi namin sa overtime ang mga hindi namin natapos
nitong mga nakaraang linggo. Buong team nag o overtime dahil kailangan namin ng mga
encoders.
"Are you done with the Gold Falcon contract? Here's the next one."
She placed a file on my desk while standing in front. "Tapos na. Na-send ko na. Ito
ba ung lease contract sa mall?"
"Oo. Na-review ko na. Double check mo nalang." Kinuha ko ito at isinang tabi.
"Lalabas ka ba for lunch? Meron akong packed lunch. Naparami ang luto ko kaya kung
gusto mo ng caldereta, we can share mine." She offered smiling.
"Bakit laging sumusobra ang luto mo?"
"'Wag ka nang umarte. Ano? Gusto mo ba o hindi?"
I smirked and nodded. "Para namang may choice ako."
Half hour nalang bago mag lunch kaya tinapos ko na ang pag rereview ng isang file
bago ako maghanda para sa lunch.
Naabutan ko si Jackie na sinasalansan na ang mga pagkain sa pantry. Wow ang dami.
Kala ko caldereta lang pero may itlog, adobo, pritong talong, sawsawan at
caldereta.
Hindi na 'ko umangal. Sanay na 'ko. Ilang araw na kasing sunud sunod ang pagbaon
niya. Ang dami eh. Tiyak na mabubusog ako.
I thank her for the meal before starting to eat. Puno ng kwentuhan ang table namin
habang kumakain. Balik na siya sa nakakatawa at palangiti niyang sarili. I liked
her company. She's witty, jolly and she knows how to keep the conversation running.
Pinigil kong tumawa kasi feeling ko kakabagin ako pero si ko talaga kaya eh. Isa
pa, ang sarap ng mga luto niya.
"Sabay na tayong pumunta sa party mamaya, ah. Iwan ko nalang ung kotse ko."
Tinutulungan ko siya sa pagliligpit ng mga baunan nang magtanong ito.
"Sure. Diretso na tayo after shift."
Ngumiti muna sa'kin ito bago abutin ang gamit sa'kin. Nitong mga nakaraang araw,
parang may nagbago sa kanya. I couldn't point it out but I know there's something.
She became more happy. I shrugged. Siguro okay na ang problema niya.
Hindi na namin kailangan pang mag palit ng damit. It's just a simple victory party
because we closed a big deal swiftly.
Andito ang mga boss pero sumaglit lang sila. Nilapitan ko din si papa para bumati.
It didn't take long because he still had a dinner meeting.
Hindi ako gaanong uminom dahil magda-drive pa 'ko pauwi. Isa pa, ihahatid ko pa si
Jackie. Speaking of her, she's there near the stage dancing with Lilly. Mukang
wasted.
Hay, ano bayan? Kaya 'yan sumabay sa'kin eh, para may tagahatid pag nalasing.
Tinapos ko lang ang beer ko at lumabas. I smiled and fished out my phone. 10pm na.
Gising pa kaya ang asawa ko?
I dialed her number. Walang sumagot. Baka naman tulog na?
I dialed again and it made four rings before she answered.
"Hello?" I asked. Wala kasi akong naririnig sa kabilang linya. "Lee?"
"B-Blakey?" Agad akong napangiti ng marinig ko ang boses niya.
"How are you doing, cuddle cakes? Matutulog ka na ba?"
"No. I can't...sleep. You're n-not here and O-Osey's not warm..."
"Are you saying na di ka makatulog 'pag wala ako? You don't have me to cuddle
right, cuddle cakes?"
"Ewan...ko. I j-just want you h-here..." Malungkot ang boses niya na lalo ko
namang ikinangiti.
My wife is missing me right now and I love that fact.
"Then uuwi na 'ko. Wait for me, okay?"
"Really?"
"Really."
Nagpaalam na 'ko at agad na bumalik sa loob. Nakasalubong ko naman si Jackie na

pasuray suray. Buti nalang. Akala ko hahanapin ko pa siya. Gusto ko nang makauwi
agad.
"Hey there p-partner!" She chirped then giggled. Wala na 'to. Wasted na.
"Jackie, let's go. Iuuwi na kita."
"What!? Hin...di pa tapos u-ung p-party!" Hinawakan niya ang braso ko at hinila
papunta sa pinakaloob.
"Hindi na. Lasing kana at isa pa, hinihintay na 'ko ni Lee."
Do'n siya huminto at tinignan lang ako. Talagang tinitigan lang. Para siyang ewan
na seryosong nakatingin tapos biglang tumawa.
"Oo...nga p-pala. It left m-my mind." Kumunot ang noo ko dahil akmang babalik pa
siya do'n. Hindi pwede. Kailangan ko nang umuwi.
I grabbed her arm but she stumbled back. Pinulupot ko ang isang braso sa bewang
niya dahil mukang babagsak ito.
She's so drunk. Man! What a mess?
Her head and one palm were resting on my chest. Her other hand held my waist. Our
feet close leaving no space between us. I tried not to mind the warmness coming off
of her body while she murmured something that I didn't catch.
"Tara, uwi na tayo..."
Dahan dahan niya 'kong tiningala. Her eyes half closed focusing on mine.
"T-talaga?" She forced the word.
Lumayo ako sa kanya para sana alalayan siya pero bigla kong naramdaman ang paghila
niya sa batok ko and before I know it, I felt softness pressed on my lips.
Bigla kong napagtanto na hinahalikan niya 'ko at naghihiyawan na ang mga tao.
Next chapter on Leanna's POV.

Chapter 11
NAKATANAW ako sa bintana. Nakikita ko si manang na papaalis. Yung tunog dito sa

dibdib ko palakas ng palakas tapos ang bilis.
Oh no, manang Josie. 'Wag mo kong iwan... Bumalik ka, pakiusap...
Andito sila. Andito na naman sila. Why did daddy have to leave me with them? I
don't like them. They're mean.
I rushed inside the cabinet. Sinarado ko ito at nagdasal na hindi nila 'ko makikita
dito. I couldn't close it properly, there's no handle. Sumiksik ako sa gilid. Sa
pinakadulo. Hoping that the layers of clothing will conceal my frail body from
them.
I hugged my knees as I sat on the cold surface. Pilit parin akong nagsusumilsik
kahit wala nang maurungan. I'm so scared. They're gonna hurt me again. I want
daddy...
"Little sis? Where are you?" Oh no. She's here. Ang lambing ng boses niya kaya lalo
akong natakot.
Please, please, please...
"My, I found her!" Nanigas ako nang sumigaw siya sabay hila ng marahas sa braso ko.
Her nails dig down my arm. It hurts.
I kept my head down and quiet. Kinagat ko ang loob ng aking labi. Hindi ako pwedeng
gumawa ng ingay. They'll get mad and they'll hit me more. Tapos tatawa sila.
Hindi ko rin pwedeng sabihin kay daddy dahil sabi nila, sasaktan nila si daddy.
Their hits and slaps hurt. They will hurt daddy too. I don't like that. He'll get
sad.
Kinaladkad niya 'ko paglabas. She pushed me hard that I fell face first with a loud
thud on the floor. I want to cry 'cause it hurts but it's nothing compare to the
things they do.
Nakita ko ang magandang sapatos ni madame. It was shiny and pretty. I used to call
her mama Anita but she didn't like it. Pinarusahan niya 'ko ng tatlong araw. She
locked me in the dog house without food.
"The maids already left, my?"
"We're alone. Tumayo ka dyan." Dali dali akong tumayo at yumuko.
"This stupid dog thought she could hide in the closet. You're really stupid, aren't
you?"
"Is that right, my dear step-daughter?"
Nilaro ko ang mga kamay sa nerbyos. I know she'll hit me. She will and she won't
stop until she's satisfied.
Nakita kong umangat ang kamay niya. Napapikit ako at hinintay ang sakit. Pinisil
niya ang pisngi ko. Madiin. Uminda ako ng sakit na ikinangiti niya.
"Do you know why I'm doing this to you, huh?" Masakit na ang pagpisil niya kaya
napangiwi ako at napahawak sa braso niya.
"Do. Not. Touch. Me." Nanginginig sa takot ko itong binaba.
"S-so...rry."
"You should be. Dahil sa'yo ay hindi pa napapalitan ang pangalan ng anak ko!
Nakakairita ka!"
Marahas niyang pinakawalan ang mukha ko. Agad akong yumuko na parang wala lang 'yon
pero masakit siya. I can't even cry. Why is this happening to me?
I didn't do anything wrong to them. I was nice. I had a good grades. I always share
my toys to Penelope and I loved them. But why?
I groaned again when someone gripped my hair hard. Nakita ko ang galit na galit na
mga mata ni Penelope. Bakit siya galit sa'kin? Wala naman akong ginagawa...
"You're just a dirt! You're nothing! Walang wala ka sa'kin! I hate you!"
Patuloy niya 'kong sinasabunutan. I looked up to mama Anita for help but she just
looked at me with hatred like Penelope.
Buong lakas niyang hinila ang buhok ko. Napaupo ako. My scalp felt like burning
with the pain. I tried hard not to cry while I kept pleading for her to stop. She
didn't stop. She slapped me everywhere, screaming bad things. On my face, my arm,
my back, my shoulders... Sinalag ko ang mga ito pero malakas siya.
Don't cry. Don't cry.
Wala akong lakas dahil hindi pa 'ko kumakain simula kagabi. I let her hurt me like
always...
"Stop, Pen. Don't leave a mark. Uuwi na bukas si Osias."
Imbes na tumigil at sinabunutan niya ulit ako ng nanggigigil.
"That's the other thing kung bakit inis ako sa babaeng 'to! Hindi pa 'ko nagiging
San Roman tapos itong walang kwentang 'to na isa nang Alcazar!"
"Don't worry, Pen. I'll do something about that. Magiging San Roman ka kahit anong
mangyari."
She yanked my hair again that made me face her furious stares. I winced and she
smiled.
"I need something for my blog. Pasalamat ka at hindi ikaw ngayon ang topic."
She slapped me before pushing me hard. Tumatawa silang iniwan ako. They're happy
again. Gano'n ba talaga? Nagiging masaya sila 'pag nakakasakit? Bakit?
I held the tears back. I remember my mommy told me.
Don't shed tears for bad things, my sweet. Because tomorrow will bring good things
for you. Be strong and always see the bright side. I love you always. Even in the
darkest days.
I miss her. I want to see her again but she's happy in heaven now. Pero tinatanong
ko minsan kung bakit niya 'ko iniwan.
Am I really a bad girl like mama Anita always says?
I didn't leave my room the entire day. I know wala parin sina Manang Josie.
Dumating sila kinabukasan. My head hurts and also my arm.
Masaya ako dahil binigyan ako ng pagkain ni mama Anita nung umaga na. I was still
scared but I'm thankful. Hindi ko sinabi kasi baka pagalitan niya ulit ako.
Si ate hindi ako sinaktan ngayon. Binigyan niya pa 'ko ng damit at tinulak sa
banyo. Dadating ba si daddy? They're not hurting me when daddy's around.
Siguro siya na ung magandang bagay na dadating. That made me more happy.
I didn't talk to the maids kahit na sa driver. Mama won't like that. Sumakay kami
sa malaking car. Bawal maingay kaya sumunod ako ng tahimik.
Are we going to see daddy?
I whimpered and played with my fingers. I want to see daddy now. But mama Anita
said he doesn't like me. Pa'no kung iwan niya ulit ako?
"Stop that, stupid!" Mariing uto ni ate. I stopped and breathe hard. I don't want
to be hurt again.
We went to a place where there are so many people. Ayoko sa lugar na 'to. They made
me sit on a metal long chair and left. Ate seemed happy. Dahil ba iiwan nila 'ko?
Matagal na pero di pa sila bumabalik. Hindi ako umalis sa upuan 'ko. Ang sabi ni
daddy dati 'wag daw akong aalis sa isan lugar 'pag naiwan ako kaya 'di ako umalis.
I'm scared. It's cold and there's this man in my front looking at me. I don't like
the way he stares.
Tumatambol ang dibdib ko ng malakas. Pinaglaruan ko ang mga daliri ko. I was
praying that this man would stop looking at me. Maybe if I ask him why, he'll stop.
But mama Anita said no talking.
May tao sa tabi ko. Bumaba siya at hinawakan ang braso ko. Oh, no! Who is this man?
Nanginig ako dahil natatakot ako... Baka bad guy din siya.
"Cuddle cakes?" I kept quiet. "I'm back, cuddle cakes."
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko at napatigil ako. Napasilip ako sa kanya. Akala ko siya
ung bad guy pero nung makita ko siya, alam kong kilala ko ito.
"B-Blakey?"
Ngumiti siya. "I'm here finally." He pulled me up and hugged me. Umangat ang paa ko
sa sahig.
He's so big but I'm not scared. I know him. Sabi nila husband ko siya. I don't know
what that is but he's the one who gave me Osey, my blue teddy bear.
"I miss you." Sabi ko na miss ko rin siya. I like him. He's nice.
Yung labi niya dumikit sa labi ko. Uminit ang mukha ko. I don't know what that
means pero dati nakikita ko si daddy na kinikiss niya si mommy din sa lips. Tapos
iki-kiss din siya ni mommy pagkatapos sasabihin nila I love you.
Tinanong ko kung aalis siya ulit. Ang sabi niya hindi. Masaya ulit ako ng konti
kasi alam kong di totoo 'yon. Umuwi kami sa bahay. Ang akala ko iiwan niya ulit ako
kasama si mama Anita at Penelope. Muntik pa 'kong pagalitan ni mama sa car kasi
nagsalita ako. Buti nalang hindi.
It was time to sleep. Nagtaka ako kung bakit hindi pa siya umaallis.
I've been waiting for him to leave. Gano'n naman lagi. Si Papa, si mama, ang mga
maids sa bahay at siya. Iniwan na nila ako dati kaya alam kong iiwan nila ulit ako.
He guided me to bed. Siguro kapag nakatulog ako do'n siya mawawala.
I shudder when he hugged me from the back. Hindi ako sanay sa hawak. Natakot na
naman ako at naramdaman niya 'yon.
"It's okay, Lee... I'm here." He kissed my shoulder. My heart beats faster but I'm
not scared anymore. Pa'no niya ginawa 'yon?
Hi-nug niya 'ko na parang si Osi kapag matutulog na. I'm not sure what happened but
he got mad. Sabi niya may sinabi daw akong pangalan ng lalaki. Wala naman, eh.
Dinaganan niya 'ko pero hindi namang bigat. Basta nasa ibabaw ko siya tapos ki-niss
niya ung cheeks at jaw ko.
"C'mon, my little wife, sabihin mo kung sino siya o hindi ako titigil."
Lumipat sa leeg ko ang mga labi niya. May lumabas na tunog galing sa bibig ko na
parang nagpa udyok pa sa kanya. It was ticklish.
I saw Osi sitting on the cabinet. "Osi!" I know Osi is sleepy too.
I pushed Blakey away and took Osi. Pinakilala ko sila sa isa't isa. Maybe they
already know each other that's why Blakey didn't look happy. He even took him away
from me. Hindi ko na daw kailangan. But why?
The locks!
I'm really sleepy but I need to check the locks. I need to check them really,
really good. Baka pumasok ung mga bad guys ulit. They always come here at night and
they might hurt Blakey.
I don't want that to happen.

Chapter 12
I'M still sleepy but I need to wake up early. Kailangan kong ipagluto ng pagkain
sina mama Anita at ate. Ganito na ang ginagawa ko sa kanila simula noon.
I cook, wash and clean everything when manang Josie and the others are not around.
Tahimik akong naglakad. Lagot ako 'pag nagising sila.
Hinahanda ko palang ang mga gagamitin nang may narinig akong mga yabag. Pinuno ng
takot ang buong katawan ko at nanigas sa kinatatayuan.
Pa'no kung si mama 'yon?
"Leanna, hija? Anong ginagawa mo sa kusina sa ganitong oras?"
I remained quiet even though I felt relieved that it's manang Josie.
Pinaalis ako ni Manang Josie do'n kasi sila daw ang magluluto ni Tammy. Si Manang
lagi akong nililituan ng food tapos si Tammy lagi akong tinatanong kung anong gusto
ko. I like them. They're nice also.
I was waiting for the food in the dining room when Mama Anita came. She's not
glaring at me this time but her stares told me that she didn't really like me.
Kumabog na naman ang puso ko nang lumapit siya.
"You know what not to do, Leanna. Don't ever tell anyone or else..."
Ang laki ng takot ko habang tumatango. I bit my lips and stayed silent until Blakey
came to sit beside me. Si ate dumating bago siya.
"Good morning!" Masiglang bati ni ate.
"Good morning, Penelope. Good morning, mama."
"Good morning, hijo. How's your sleep?" Mahimbing ang sagot niya kay mama.
"Magandang umaga, cuddle cakes. Bakit di mo ko ginising?" I bit my lips to refrain

from answering. "Sa'n ang morning kiss ko, hmm?"
"Good morning!" daddy? I heard daddy's voice. Andito na siya?
Gusto kong tingnan siya at puntahan pero hindi pwede. Mama gave me a warning look.
Binati nila ang isa't isa.
Gusto ni Blakey na batiin ko si daddy. I was so excited and happy but I was scared
that mama would get mad.
"Leanna, anak?" Oh, daddy...I missed the softness of his voice. "Can I get a hug
from you, darling?"
I was about to cry when he opened his arms. Hindi ko na mapigilan ang panginginig
ng mga labi ko. Nagdadalawang isip ako pero nawala 'yon nang tinulak ako ng konti
ni Blakey.
I cried because I missed daddy. It's okay to cry because daddy is one of the good
things in my life like what my mommy said.
"I miss...y-you...daddy."
"Oh, my sweet darling. I miss you so, so much." We hugged and daddy kissed me on my
head.
Masaya na naman si ate kasi binigyan siya ng pasalubong. I was happy too. Not
because he gave me a gift. It's because daddy said he loves me.
Sabi ni mama Anita hindi daw ako mahal ng daddy ko pero hindi 'yon totoo. She was
lying. Mahal niya 'ko at mahal ko rin si daddy so, so much. Big as the universe.
Nang kumain na kami, sabi ni ate gusto niyang mag party. Ayaw ni Blakey at daddy. I
got nervous again because she got mad. They might hurt daddy and Blakey. I need to
check the locks again really, really, really good this time.
I missed daddy again because they left after eating pero bumalik si ate Penelope.
"Pumasok ka sa banyo at maghubad ka." Naiinis na sabi sa'kin ni ate.
Iniwan ako sa kanya ni Blakey. Aalis daw kami. I know she won't hurt me 'cause
Blakey is close but I'm still frighten that she might strike me at any second. Dito
kami sa isa pang kwarto na bakante. Sumunod agad ako.
Kinuha niya ung shower tapos tinutok sa'kin. Nakatayo at nakayuko lang ako habang
unti unting nababasa. Nakatayo siya malapit sa'kin. Tumagilid ako para mabasa ang
kabilang gilid ng katawan ko.
She was more busy tapping that little square thingy on her other hand. I think it
was called a cellphone. I don't have one but hers is pretty because it's pink. I
like pink like hello kitty.
"Out." Basta nalang niya initsya ang shower sa paanan ko.
"S-shampoo..."
"Tumahimik ka at lumabas. Do you want me to hurt you and Osias?"
Mabilis akong umiling at sumunod. Osias is Blakey's real name but I like to call
him Blakey. He doesn't want anyone calling him other names but he let me because
he's nice.
Gusto ko ung amoy ng shampoo ko. Amoy bubblegum pero okay lang kahit hindi ako
nakapag-shampoo.
"Cheap clothes..." She threw me my clothes and shoes the moment I wore my robe.
Tumama ito sa mukha ko bago nahulog sa sahig.
Pinulot ko ito, nagbihis at umupo sa harap ng salamin. I start combing my hair. She
was standing behind me and I was afraid to make a mistake. She snatched the comb
from me at hit me on the head.
"Awww..."
"Napakabagal mong kumilos. Pagsusuklay lang ang tanga mo pa!"
Siya na ang gumawa pero masakit. Sumusunod ang ulo ko sa bawat suklay. Parang
sinasabunutan niya na 'ko. Naramdaman ko ang pag-init ng mga mata ko.
No, Leanna. Don't cry...
Kinagat ko nalang ang labi ko. "Why don't you just shave your ugly hair. Jeez!
You're hopeless! Ayusin mo ang sarili mo at bumaba maliwanag ba!?"
"Y-yes..."
Initsa niya ang suklay sa harap ko. Natamaan nito ang ilang gamit sa ibabaw ng
vanity table. I carefully continued combing.
I like my hair. I remember that my mommy had the same color. Sabi niya maganda daw
'pag mahaba. I also remember her humming while combing my hair gently. Not like
what ate did.
Binati ako ni Aling Josie 'pag baba ko.
"Wow! Ang ganda mo naman, hija." Gusto kong mag thank you pero hindi ko magawa kasi
andyan si ate. Now manang will think I'm a bad girl.
Ngumiti lang si manang kahit hindi ko siya pinansin. I'm sorry manang Josie...
Ate Penelope gave me a sign to follow her outside. She made me sit on the side of
the house. Tinititigan niya 'ko ng masama habang nakayuko lang ako. Lumakas ang
tibok ng puso ko. Will she...hit me?
"Marunong ka palang mag-ayos ng sarili, huh?" I saw her glare right through my
lashes.
"T-Thank...you, a-ate."
"Thank you, tss. Osias might be here now pero iiwan ka rin niya sa'min ni mommy
gaya ng nakagawian. No one loves you or even like you because you're stupid and
ugly." She snickered. "Kulang ka ata sa blush on."
Ngumiti siya at tinaas ang kamay. She was going to hit me. I know when she raises
her hand. Pumikit nalang ako at handang tanggapin pero hindi 'yon dumating. Blakey
called her.
"What are you doing?"
"Oh, good. You're here. Here she is. Now, tell me what you think?"
"She's beautiful." Nakaramdam ako ng saya dahil sa sinabi niya. Then it disappear
because I know it's not true.
Ate Penelope always says that I'm ugly that's why no one will likes me. Nung nasa
school pa kami, wala akong friends. Lahat sila friends ni ate kasi maganda siya. I
missed going to school.
Ayaw ni mama na pumasok ako sa school. Daddy brought me to homeschooling but mama
Anita didn't like it so she pulled me out on schooling.
I heard ate Penelope's pretty bracelets made a sound when she left. Napatingin ako
kay Blakey. Andito siya pero alam kong iiwan niya din ako. Ate Penelope was right.
Nobody likes me and Blakey will eventually leave me.
"Aren't you excited?" Umiling ako. I don't want to go anymore.
"A-Aalis ka...ba ulit p-pag uwi...natin?"
"Hindi. Diba sabi ko hindi na 'ko aalis. What makes you think that?"
I moved closer and hugged him. Ganito din ung dati bago siya mawala.
"Ayoko n-nang umalis kung... iiwan mo lang ulit a-ako..."
Naramdaman ko ang mga labi niya sa noo ko. "I'm sorry cuddle cakes. Hindi na 'ko
pupunta sa malayo ulit, okay? I'm here to take care of you."
But for how long will he stay here? Sana matagal kasi masaya talaga ako 'pag andito
siya. My chest really hurts when he's away.
Chapter 13
Sorry for the mistakes.
BLAKEY bought me a dog. I told him that I was a good girl and he gave me a dog.
He was so soft and cuddly so I named him Softie. Akala ko ikukulong niya 'ko sa dog
house no'n. That dog house was my punishment room. Natakot ako.
Tapos no'n nakita ko sa sasakyan niya si Softie. I played with him all day and it
made me happy. Gusto ko siyang itago kasi magagalit si mama Anita 'pag nakita siya.
Baka kunin siya sa'kin ni mama. Softie is my friend and I want to protect him.
Masaya ako nitong mga nakalipas na araw. Hindi na din pumupunta dito sina mama
Anita at ate Penelope.
Lagi akong dinadala ni Blakey sa labas. I see different things from our home. They
were pretty and colorful. Big and small. Shiny and not so much. I wanted to touch
them all. Minsan hinahayaan ako ni Blakey, minsan naman bawal daw.
I wanted to experience that again.
I was so happy that Blakey brought me to see daddy. Ang ganda ng office ni daddy.
May mga pictures sa pader tapos ang daming flowers. My mommy loved flowers that's
why daddy loved them too.
'Welcome home, my husband.'
'Thank you, my wife.'
Naglalaro kami ni Softie malapit sa salas nang marinig ko 'yon galing sa TV. It got
my attention because someone said wife.
Ako yun, eh! Blakey always calls me my wife.

Nakita ko sa TV ki-niss ng babae ung lalaki.
"Oh, Leanna. Pagod ka na bang maglaro? Halika dito't manood tayo ng koreanovela..."
Umupo ako katabi ni Manang Josie kaso umalis din siya agad kasi tumunog ung house
phone.
"The l-lovely...w-wife..."
That's the title I read. Marunong akong magbasa kaso konti lang. Isa pa, hindi ako
pwedeng magsalita ng marami. My throat will hurt.
Softie was sleeping beside my feet when manang Josie came back.
"Why did s-she... k-kiss husband?" I tilted my head in confusion.
"Ah kasi, hija... Mag-asawa sila. Parang kayo ni Osias. Ikaw ung wife tapos si
Osias ung husband mo. Dapat sweet kayo sa isa't isa parang 'yung andyan sa TV. 'Pag
uwi ni Osias dapat may welcome kiss din siya. Naiintindihan mo ba, hija?"
"I need t-to kiss B-Blakey?"
"Oo pag-uwi niya kasi isa 'yan sa mga gawain ng isang lovely wife."
"But I-I'm... little w-wife and c-cute wife." I pointed at myself and manang
laughed. Why? What's funny? That's true. Blakey calls me that too and cuddle cakes.
"Gano'n din un, Leanna. Wife ka pa din."
Tumango ako pero nakakunot ang noo. Bumalik kami sa panonood. Jim was the husband's
name and Cleo was the lovely wife.
What's with Jim? He's always hugging and kissing Cleo like Blakey is with me.
Gano'n ba talaga 'yon? Gano'n nga siguro.
If I kiss Blakey, will he get mad? I don't know. Siya kasi laging nagki-kiss
sa'kin, eh. But I hope not.
"Lee, I'm home!" That's Blakey's voice. He's here.
Mabilis akong tumayo at sinalubong siya. Nahihiya ako pero nung nakita kong
nakangiti siya at nakabuka ang mga brao, napangiti na rin ako at sinalubong ang
yakap niya. He pulled me up and I hugged his neck. My legs hugged his waist.
"Welcome h-home... h-husband." Binulong ko lang kasi natatakot ako baka magalit
siya. Did I do it right?
Oh, I forgot the kiss so I held his cheeks and kissed his lips.
My lips felt weird. It was ticklish again. Gaya nang laging nangyayari 'pag siya
ang gumagawa no'n. I still don't understand that. Tanungin ko kaya si Blakey?
"B-Blakey..." I started but stopped because he's just looking at me. His eyes were
twinkling like that stars at night. "Is t-there...p-problem?"
"Can I have another welcome kiss from my wife?"
He really looks so happy because his smile is so big. Kung napapasaya siya ng kiss
ko, then I'll kiss him every time he comes home because I'm happy that he's happy.
"W-Welcome...home h-husband." Inulit ko ulit at hinalikan siya.
"Thank you, my little wife. Bukas ulit, huh?" Ngumti ulit siya. Mas malaki. Tumango
ako tapos siya naman ang nag-kiss.
Iba ito sa mga nauna. Matagal ito. Hindi ako makaalis kasi hawak niya ung ulo ko.
But it's okay. I like kissing him even though its hard to breathe. It feels good
and soft and it tastes sweet.
Tama si mommy. If I don't cry for the bad things, good things will happen tomorrow
and my tomorrow is happening with Blakey.
Noon lagi akong inaaway ni ate Penelope at pinapagalitan ni mama Anita kaya lagi
akong umiiyak. I kept crying everyday with or without them around.
Then came the time that I had enough. I thought dad didn't love me and I have no
one who loved me. Sa sobrang lungkot ko, hindi ako nakakain ng ilang araw.
There's no good tomorrow for me and I only wanted to be with my mommy in heaven.
Heaven is a nice place.
Hindi ako kumain, nagsalita, lumabas ng kwarto and most of all, I didn't cry.
Nagising ako sa isang puting kwarto. I thought I was in heaven because mommy once
told me that heaven was very bright.
I got happy then got sad when I found daddy crying beside the bed while holding my
hand.
That very moment when he looked at me, I asked.
'Why a-are...you c-crying dad...dy?'
'Remember what your mommy said, darling. You only cry for the good things and I cry
because I love you so much. I don't wanna lose you, darling. You're all I have.
You're my tomorrow."
He cried and cried while hugging me.
Pagkatpos no'n, napagpasyahan kong hindi na 'ko iiyak sa mga bad things kagaya ng
pag inaaway ako ni ate Penelope. Kahit na kunin niya ung mga toys ko. Kahit na
sinisigawan nila 'ko ni mama Anita.
Even if they hurt at me or don't give me food. Even after the time they choked me
and tried drown me. Kahit na nahihirapan akong magsalita dahil do'n.
"Lee? Where are you?" agad akong tumakbo at iniwan si Softie na naglalaro ng ball.
I hugged Blakey and kissed his cheek. He loves it when I do that. Ngumiti siya at
binigyan ako ng halik sa labi.
"As much as I want to kiss you all day, I can't cuddle cakes because my friend is
coming."
"F-Friend?"
"Oo. His name is Renz at may kasama siya mamaya. Gusto kong makilala mo siya,
okay?"
"Okay." Sana hindi siya kagaya ng mga friend ni ate Penelope. Please po, Papa
Jesus.
Dumating na nga ang kaibigan ni Blakey. I was shy at first because I didn't know
them. He was so big like Blakey and they were strangers but then I saw Janine.
She is so, so cute and little and cuddly and I call her cute baby Janine. Tapos ung
pisngi niya parang apple. Nakakagigil niya. I want to hug her all day then we'll
play. Sinabi ko sa kanya 'yon pero di ko siya maintindihan.
"This is... a f-flower..." Then I gave her the flower I picked in the garden.
Tinuturuan ko siya para maging matalino na siya paglaki. She'll be smart like
Blakey. I heard that his job is for smart people so he's smart.
"fwawew."
"T-this is a... l-leaf."
"Yif!" I also showed her the little rock and big rock. Kinuha niya lang ito at
tinapon.
Tapos pinakilala ko siya kay Softie pero tumakbo si Softie at binunggo si cute baby
Janine kaya nadapa.
She was crying and crying and I was nervous. Tumingin ako kay Blakey pero hindi
siya lumapit. Ganun din si Renz.
"S-stop...cry-ing." Iyak pa din siya ng iyak at hindi ko na alam ang gagawin.
Nakadapa parin siya at umiiyak nang kurutin ko siya sa braso.
I thought maybe if I did what ate Penelope and mama Anita always do with me when I
cry she'd stop and be quiet but she cried more and more.
Bakit ayaw gumana? Siguro kung hahawakan ko ang buhok niya... I'm not sure. I don't
like what I feel when I do that to her. Parang masama 'yon.
Hindi ko alam ang gagawin. Softie ran away and Blakey won't help me. I'll punish
Softie later. I'm nervous but I didn't cry. Kailangan kong tulungan si baby Janine.
Hinawakan ko ang ilalim ng mga braso niya at binuhat. She's heavy but I'm strong so
I carried then rocked her back and forth.
"G-good b...aby. No c-crying na, 'kay?" Narinig niya ko at agad siyang tumahimik. I
smiled because she's really smart. Now she's smiling and giggling so I showed her
more flowers because she's a good baby.
Nalungkot ako nang umalis na si Janine pero nag-promise sa'kin si Blakey na babalik
sila. Sana bukas nandito na sila. I'll miss her.
Sabi ko kay Blakey gusto ko nang baby, yung kagaya ni Janine. Ang sabi niya oo pero
hindi daw ngayon. I want a baby now.
Nasa salas kami at nanonood ni Manang Josie ng The lovely wife. Cleo was crying
because she couldn't give Jim a baby. I don't know why.
"Why is s-she c-crying?"

"Kasi hindi siya pwedeng magbuntis." She looked like crying also.
"M-Magbun...tis?"
"Ganito kasi, hija. Sa buhay mag-asawa importante lang na magkaroon sila ng baby.
Tungkulin ng babae 'yon pero itong si Cleo, hindi niya mabigyan ng anak si Jim.
Pero gano'n talaga ang buhay. Minsan hindi nabibiyayaan ng anak ang mag-asawa."
"Can y-you...give me a b-baby, Manang? I w-want a b-baby."
"Diyos ko, Leanna! Bakit ka sa'kin nanghihingi ng ganyan?" She said shocked. Bakit?
Hindi ako mabigyan ni Blakey ng baby kaya baka siya ay mabigyan ako.
I asked Manang of where I could get a baby but she just laughed a little and got up
when we heard Blakey yelled that he's home.
Ano bayan? Even Manang didn't want to give me a baby. Then where could I get one?
There's so many days passed and Janine came again one time. Masaya ulit ako at sabi
pa bi Blakey magkaka baby daw kami pero dapat daw akong maghintay. I said okay and
then we wait. Hindi ko alam kung ga'no katagal but I'll be a good girl and wait.
"Cuddle cake, Mama Anita and Penelope will be here. They're gonna keep you
company."
Bumilis agad ang tibok ng puso ko. Gusto kong sabihing ayoko sa kanila pero
natatakot ako. Baka kasi saktan nila si daddy at Blakey.
Tumakbo ako sa taas pagkatapos kumain. Blakey asked me what's wrong but I couldn't
talk. Mukha siyang nag-aalala pero iiwan niya parin ako. Tama si ate Penelope. He'd
leave me. I'm really scared and I got scared more when he left.
Sumandal ako sa headboard ng kama at niyakap ang mga tuhod ko. I was shaking. I was
petrified.
Then the door opened. Binaon ko ang mukha sa mga tuhod ko.
"Hi, little sis. I'm with my friend that misses you."
"Kamusta na, baby doll. It's me Terrence. Do you want to play?"
Narinig kong tumawa si Ate Penelope. I don't know what to do. I want to cry right
now.
Somebody help me. I don't wanna play...

Chapter 14
PABAGSAK akong humiga patagilid sa kama. I feel so tired and weak. Hinawakan ko at
minasahe ang leeg ko. It hurts.
Terrence caressed it for me after kneeling down the floor to level with my eye.
"Does it hurt?" Aniya ng nakangiti. "Remember, baby doll. Hindi ka dapat magsalita
or you will get hurt more, okay?" I whimpered and let a sole tear escaped from my
eye.
Biglang bumukas ang pinto at alam kong si ate Penelope 'yon. I was so tired that I
couldn't move to see her.
"You drained her, baby. Look at her. What a whöre!" She laughed at me.
"That's how much I miss playing with her."
"Bakit nakadamit na siya? I'm hoping to catch a vid."
Tumayo si Terrence at sa palagay ko ay pumunta siya kay ate.
"Alam mong ayaw ko ng mga video. Let's get down. I need a drink. Playing with her
dried me."
"It's my turn to play with her. I'll leave her broken." My breath hitched. Nanginig
ang katawan ko nang marinig ang paglapit niya.
I'm so scared and tired. I can't take it anymore.
"Baby, let's go get some drinks. That b-tch wouldn't give you the satisfaction. I
on the other hand, have still more energy reserved for you. C'mon."
I heard her sigh before hearing her walking away. Nagpasalamat ako sa Diyos nang
tuluyan ng silang lumabas.
I hoped mama Anita won't come. She'll hurt me more.
I don't have energy left. Terrence pushed me hard today. I don't want to do it
again.
Pinilit kong tumayo at gumapang papunta sa may unan. I dragged my body with groans
and whimpers.
"B-Blakey..." Paulit ulit kong binubulong ang pangalan niya.
I kept on calling for him to help me but he didn't come. Kinagat ko ang nanginginig
kong labi. Hindi ako mahalaga para sa kanya. He left me with them.
Ang sabi niya hindi niya 'ko iiwan pero ginawa niya. He let them hurt me. He lied
to me.
Nakatingin lang ako sa pader. Emotionless and hopeless. Ngayon ay alam ko nang nag-
iisa lang ako. Daddy's there but he can't help me because he's always with mama
Anita.
I'm on my on.
Tumunog ang sikmura ko pero wala akong pakialam. I'm busy accepting the fact that
no one could help me. That people are mean like ate Penelope and mama Anita. Even
Blakey is a bad man because he lies. Bad people keep on lying every time like how
he always tells me that he'll take care of me and never leaves me.
I don't like him anymore.
Siguro kung wala ako dito hindi na nila ako masasaktan. Gusto ko nang umalis pero
hindi ko alam kung sa'n ako pupunta. Leaving means never get to see daddy again
also. Ayoko no'n.
What should I do?
I closed my eyes when the door opened.
"Hey, b-tch stand up." she ordered. "C'mon! Bingi ka ba?" She harshly grabbed my
upper arm yanked me. Masakit pero hindi ko pinansin.
My eyes remained lifeless and blank na parang wala na 'kong paki sa mundo. I lost
all hope. I just want it to be over.
Sinampal niya ko pero ni uminda ng sakit ay hindi ko magawa. She tossed me to bed
before gripping my chin with a smile. "That's right, trash. Nobody likes you.
Nobody cares for you. Nobody loves you. Might as well do us a favor and kill
yourself you worthless piece of trash. 'Pag nawala ka na, magiging San Roman na
'ko. I'll be daddy's only daughter and take it all. Daddy loves me not like you.
Isang baliw at sinto sinto!"
She harshly released me before giggling. "Oo nga pala. I'll take the teddy bear and
Terrence will take that horrible dog downstairs. Don't worry, ibabalik ko din pero
alam mo naman ang gagawin niya sa aso, diba? Now you really have nothing the moment
that dog dies. Ciao, little sis."
Kinuha niya si Osi. Kitang kita ko. She even made Osi waved his hand at me. I don't
want him to go and now Terrence's going to take Softie from me like what he did
with Milky, my other dog.
What am I going to do?
But it's about to happen anyway.
No one will ever help me.
----
"Cuddle cakes, tell me what happened, please. Bakit ka malungkot? May gusto ka ba?
Tell me and I'll get it. Just...just say anything."
I remained looking on the floor. Ang gusto ko at umalis siya. I don't want him
anymore. Blakey is bad like mama and ate.
Ano naman ang mangyayari 'pag sinabi ko?
He would just leave me again to them.
Wala na 'kong kalaro dito. I'm getting lonely. I wish Softie's here to play with
me.
"Lee, kumain ka pa. Baka magkasakit ka niyan."
Iniwas ko ang bibig sa kutsarang nasa harap ko. I sighed tiredly. Bakit ba siya
nagaaksaya ng panahon sa'kin? I'm worth nothing. Wala naman akong halaga sa kanila.
Gusto kong mawala silang lahat para hindi nalang ako masaktan. Gusto kong matulog
ng matagal. Yung matagal na matagal.
Narinig kong mabigat ang buntong hininga ni Blakey. Kung pagod na siyang alagaan
ako, bakit hindi nalang ulit siya umalis. I don't care anymore.
"Manang, ano po ba ang nangyari? Okay naman po ng nakaraan si Lee. May alam po ba
kayo?"
"Wala, hijo. Hindi ko nga rin alam. Hindi ko naman siya nakitang bumaba nung
bumisita sina Ma'am Penelope at Ma'am Anita. Sa palagay ko nahiya siya sa nobyo ni
Ma'am Penelope. Terrence ata ang pangalan niya. Pinabayaan ko nalang siya sa taas
no'n hanggang sa sinabi ni Ma'am Penelope na ayaw daw kumain."
"May boyfriend si Penelope?"
"Hindi ba nila nasabi? Oo meron. Dati lagi siyang bumibisita dito nung nasa
military kapa."
"Kung dati na siyang bumibisita dito bakit ilang parin si Lee?"
I cringed when I heard him say that. I closed my eyes and remembered what happened.
"Ilang kasi siya sa ibang tao pero mabait naman ung Terrence. Nakausap ko na rin
siya."
Might as well do us a favor and kill yourself you worthless piece of trash.
Pa'no kaya kung sundin ko si Ate Penelope? Wala namna sigurong makakapansin. Daddy
might miss me but I don't have the will to continue to live anymore.
Napapitlag ako nang hawakan ako ni Blakey. He sighed deeply again. I didn't look at
him even if I wanted to. Even if I wanted to tell him the truth. Kahit naman na
alam kong wala siyang pakialam sa'kin, ayoko paring masaktan siya nila ate at mama.
I wanted to protect him too.
"Did something happen when they came here, cuddle cakes. You can tell me...." Hindi
ko sinagot lahat ng sinasabi niya. "Do you want to see Janine?" He kept asking me
and I jut listen. Alam kong napagod na siya ng tumayo ito. He'll leave and I want
him to but my chest suddenly felt heavy it hurts,
"Manang, pakitignan muna si Lee. May tatawagan lang ako."
The next day, Blakey didn't talk to me that much. He gives me food but didn't feed
me like before. Inaalagaan niya 'ko pero hindi ako pinipilit na magsalita. He still
kissed me good night and greeted me in the morning but he's moving close to me
anymore.
Napagod na talaga siya sa'kin. That fact made my chest hurt more.
I felt really alone now and I deserved to be alone.
I get more depressed and depressed every day. Alam kong lagi akong tinitignan ni
Blakey. One time I caught him. He's eyes were so sad. Parang mas malungkot pa siya
kesa sa'kin.
Bakit kaya? Hindi ko maintindihan. Dapat diba masaya siya?
Isang beses tinanong niya kung malungkot ba 'ko dahil nawala si Softie. Malungkot
nga ko dahil don pero hindi lang 'yon ang dahilan.
After dinner, Blakey carried me to bed. Hinayaan ko na siya kasi minsan

nararamdaman kong gusto ko siyang malapit sa'kin. He's just there always but I
still miss him all the time.
"Hindi nalang ako papasok bukas, cuddle cakes. I want to take care of you."
I wanted to say that I didn't care but my heart got excited when he said that he'd
take care of me. May bahagi sa'kin na nagsasabing 'wag siyang hayaang gawin yon
pero mas malaking bahagi sa'kin ang gustong nasa tabi ko lang siya.
Nitong mga nakaraang araw ay laging andyan siya. I felt nice when he touched me or
even when he's close. Pero ayaw ko rin namang umasa dahil laging umiikot sa isip ko
ang isang tanong.
Hanggang kelan ba 'to?
Yung papaasahin akong magiging masaya tapos bigla nalang mawawala...
I could see pity in everybody's eyes for me but they don't understand what I'm
feeling.
Alam kong walang tutulong sa'kin para tanggalin lahat ng takot ko. I'm searching
for someone who could understand. Kahit isa lang kaso wala.
Hindi nila maintindihan na masakit na maging mag-isa. Na walang nagmamahal sa'yo.

Na walang makakaintindi sa'yo.
No one understands and that hurts me more.
Namaluktot ako sa higaan at nagdasal. Na sana matapos na ang lahat. Na mawala na

ang lahat ng sakit.
I'm ready to surrender. I'm ready to give up.
As I succumb to self-pity, I felt two big arms wrapped around my waist. Naramdaman
ko ang init mula sa kalatawan ni Blakey galing sa likod. I could feel his breath
fanning the back of my neck. It was nice and warm. Hindi ko alam kung anong
nangyari but I started shivering.
"Don't be scared, Lee. I'm here. I won't let you go even if you pushed me away. Ako
ang asawa mo. Hindi kita iiwan."
He's lying again.
"Kahit pa na hindi mo 'ko kausapin, I will always be here..."
Stop. You will never understand.
"I understand, cuddle cakes. Don't think that you're alone 'cause I'm here."
Natigilan ako. He understand? Pa'no? Hindi. Nagsisinungaling lang siya.
"I can feel your sadness and it's killing me to see you broken. I am your husband
and it's my duty to protect you. To understand you and take your fears away at 'yun
ang gagawin ko. The way you shut yourself to the world makes makes me wanna help
you more. I'm reaching out to help you, my wife. You're the most important thing to
me in this world. Tomorrow will be better than today, I promise."
Parang may sariling isip ang katawan ko nang bigla itong humarap sa kanya at
yakapin siya ng mahigpit.
I whimpered but I didn't cry. Basta niyakap ko lang siya ng mahigpit at gano'n din
siya sa'kin.
Alam kong dapat lumayo ako sa kanya but when he said that tomorrow will be better,
it made me think that there's still things that will happen in a good way or even
better.
I found shelter in his arms like I was safe. Na parang hindi ako kayang saktan nila
ate at mama. Na pwedeng maging masaya ang mundo ko.
Hindi ko alam kung tama ba ito o mali. I wanted to protect myself from everyone.
They will all only hurt me pero 'pag si Blakey,
As long as he'll be my tomorrow, I'm not afraid to get hurt.

Chapter 15
BLAKEY was right. I felt better when I woke up especially when he's beside me when
I opened my eyes. Nakatingin siya sa'kin at nakangiti. Napangiti din ako.
Umalis kami. He brought me to the happy place called Enchanted. Ang daming tao do'n
na masaya tapos sumasakay ng mga rides. There were lots of colorful toys also and
Blakey bought me a colorful, soft food, the sweet cotton candy.
Ang sarap no'n.
Sumakay kami sa Ferris wheel. I didn't like that one. I was dizzy and I didn't feel
good riding that. But that's okay because Blakey was there hugging me all the
throughout the ride. What I like is the carrousel. Nakasakay din ako ng kabayo!
May kinuwento siya sa'kin tungkol sa isa niya pang kaibigan. He said he wanted me
to meet Jackie someday.
Ayoko siyang makilala pero hindi ko sinabi 'yon. Renz was a good friend but I
didn't know if Jackie was a good friend also.
"Are you tired, cuddles cakes? Humiga ka muna diyan. I'll get you some water,
okay?"
Humiga na agad ako at narininig ko ang mahina niyang pagtawa bago umalis. I am
really happy today. Blakey made me feel happy. I was smiling when he came back with
the water.
"Do you wanna hit the bed?"
"I'm s-sleepy." I'm not sure why he want me to hit the bed though. Hindi naman siya
bad boy.
"Halika nga dito..." I raised my hand and he put the glass down carefully before
picking me up, placing me on his lap. Gusto ko ring laging umuupo sa mga hita niya.
It felt comfortable.
"Let's go there again..."
"We will. Uminom ka muna. You sure had fun today, didn't you, cuddle cakes?"
Gusto ko talaga do'n sa Enchanted. Maybe I'll ask Blakey if we could live there.
I yawned after drinking. "Y-Yes. Goodnight, B-Blakey." I want to sleep but Blakey
said I couldn't sleep yet because we'll clean up. I pouted and closed my eyes.
Ayoko nga. I'm really comfortable while hugging him like this. Isa pa, ang bango
niya rin.
Bigla kong naramdamang may malambot na dumikit sa mga labi ko. My heart beat wildly
and I know that Blakey's kissing me.
Alam ko na ang gagawin. Ilang beses na kaming nag-kiss ng ganito kaya ginalaw ko
ang aking mga labi. His lips tasted sweet like the cotton candy times 100.
He bit my lips then tugged it away. It didn't hurt but I felt something in my lower
stomach. It felt heavy but good. Nahirapan akong huminga nang haplusin niya ang
binti at dibdib ko.
Napaungol ako nang pumasok ang dila niya sa bibig ko. It's not the kind of moan
every time I ate a cake. He was like tasting my inside and it was new to me. Siya
naman ang umungol nang hawakan ko ang buhok niya. I think he likes what we're doing
too.
"Open your eyes, Lee. Look at me." I was panting when I opened my heavy eyes.
"Bla...key..."
"Leanna, my wife." Then he kissed me again and touched my chest, hand under my
blouse.
When he touches me, I feel warm but I shiver like it's cold. He takes my breath
away but I an not tired. My heartbeat's always fast but I am not scared. I also
always feel something in my stomach but I don't have stomach flu.
"W-What are...you...d-doing?" Napahinto siya. His darker eyes turned wide like a
saucer and immediately took his hand off me.
"Shi-I'm sorry, Lee. I lost control."
"I don't u-understand..."
"I'm sorry."
"Bakit?"
"Did I hurt you? May masakit ba?" He looked worried.
"You...s-squeezed me here..." Tinuro ko ang aking dibdib. He hurt be a bit but it

was okay. I just really don't understand why we did that. Bago ang lahat sa'kin.
"Anong nararamdaman mo?"
"I don't know... We w-were kis...sing then...you t-touched...m-me. Y-

your...hand..."
"Shh. I understand. You don't need to tell me anything anymore. Nahihirapan ka nang
magsalita. Hindi ko na ulit 'yon gagawin kapag ayaw mo."
I panted. Nahihirapan na kong magsalita. Bumuntong hininga siya na parang nawalan

siya ng laruan. I didn't want to tell him about that hard thing poking me because
he looked disappointed. Baka mas lumungkot siya.
Dumating si Manang Josie. Ang akala niya gumagawa kami ng baby. My eyes sparkled
thinking that we're gonna have one finally but Blakey said not yet.
My hopes went down pero sabi niya soon. Ang tagal naman ng soon.
"Do you want Penelope and Terrence here tomorrow?"
Hindi agad ang sagot ko sa isip pero hindi ako nagsalita. Laking pasasalamat ko
nang sabi niya hindi sila pupunta. Yehey!
Binigyan niya 'ko ng cellphone, stuffed toy na aso at cake para sa pasalubong
kinabukasan. He always gives me cake when he got home. Ang sarap nila tapos iba't
ibang kulay.
The cellphone was fun to use. He taught me how to use it. It would be more cooler
if it's pink.
Namiss ko bigla si Softie dahil sa stuffed toy. I wanted to see him but I know it's
impossible. Hems with Terrence now. Gusto ko talagang sabihin kay Blakey pero hindi
pwede.
I also missed Osi. I used to hugged him before sleeping and when I was sad pero
wala na rin siya. Mukang hindi pa siya napapansin ni Blakey hindi kagaya ng kay
Sofie.
"Baka late na ko makauwi mamaya, cuddle cakes."
"Late?"
"We have a small party tonight but I promise I'll be here when you woke up. Okay
lang ba?"
"You w-wont hug m-me to...sleep?" Umupo siya sa gilid ng kama at hinawakan ang
kamay ko bago halikan ang nakanguso kong mga labi.
"I'll still hug you pero baka tulog ka na no'n..."
"Okay." I said smiling.
Ngumiti rin siya habang nakatingin sa'kin. He just looked at me while sitting on
the bed in his suit. Bumaba ang tingin niya sa mga labi ko at nawala ang ngiti
niya. I licked my lips and his eyes bore to them for a sec before meeting my eyes.
"Do you really want a baby, Lee?"
"Yes." Mabilis kong sagot at gumapang para yakapin siya. "Y-you'll give me...b-
baby?"
"But it will hurt you. Gusto mo parin ba ng baby kahit masakit?"
Kumunot ang noo ko. Pa'nong masakit. Hindi ko alam na gano'n pala 'yon pero andyan
naman siya diba? He said he'll protect me.
"Will you be t-there?"
"Of course."
"Will you h-hug me when it h-hurts?"

"I'll kiss you, hold your hand and hug you. Hindi ako aalis."
"Then i-it's ...okay." I beamed a smile like he did.
I can't wait to have a baby.
Hindi ako nakatulog dahil wala si Blakey. I've checked the locks a hundreds of
times but I didn't feel safe because I'm alone.
Nagulat ako ng may tumunog. I didn't know it at first pero natandaan ko ang tunog
na 'yon nang tinuturuan ako ni Blakey na mag cellphone.
Hinanap ko 'yon sa drawer pero tumigil. I found it under my pillows the second time
it rang. Pinindot ko ito gaya ng turo ni Blakey at laking tuwa ko nang marinig ko
ang boses niya. Kaso malungkot parin ako kasi wala siya.
He said that he'd come home because he missed me so much too like me to him.
I waited and waited but he didn't come and I fell asleep alone.
Chapter 16
"Hello, baby doll..." I was sitting on the bed, playing with my phone when I heard
his voice. Napaangat ako nang tingin, kinakabahan. "Miss me?" Terrence said with a
smile.
I immediately shivered. If he's here then ate Penelope is also here.
"B-Blakey..." I stuttered.
Mas lumawak ang ngiti niya. "She's not here, baby doll. Maaga siyang umalis kaya
nakadalaw kami. Hindi ba siya nagpaalam sa'yo? Penelope's downstairs so we need to
do it fast."
I whimpered and slowly nodded my head. I know it will hurt again. I looked at my
phone. Should I call Blakey? Asan ba siya? Dapat mamaya pa siya aalis...
"Don't worry, Leanna. Hindi na to ga'nong masakit ngayon..." Tumingin ulit ako kay
Terrence. He has this sweet smile on his face while taking off his coat fast like
he couldn't wait. "Let's make it fast."
My heart was pounding again. I want to say no but I couldn't do anything but to
endure it all.
Nang matapos kami ay pagud na pagod ako. My throat hurts again. I could move but I
have no energy left. Nakahiga ako patagilid sa kama. Sinundan ko ng paningin si
Terrence nang lumabas sa pinto. Yun nalang ata ang magagawa ko. Pagbalik niya ay
may dala na siyang tubig. Umupo siya sa tabi ko at inangat ang akign ulunan.
"Drink this, baby doll. Sa susunod hindi na talaga masakit." He promised as he

pushed the glass of water against my lips.
My throat were like burning so I had to take it. Nagsimulang guminhawa ang
pakiramdam ko habang dumadausdos ang tubig sa aking lalamunan.
"Good girl..." I'm not thirsty anymore but my body is still weak.
Inihiga niya ulit ako matapos kunin ang baso. Tumayo siya at alam kong aalis na
siya. I heard the door opened. I'm still feeling scared because ate might go here
if he'll leave.
"What are you doing here!?" Nanigas ako nang marinig ko ang boses ni Blakey. I was
happy but his voice scared me. It was loud and mad like ate.
"Get the fvck out of here!"
Nakatalikod ako sa kanila kaya hindi ko makita ang ginagawa nila. I felt someone
touched me and I knew it was Blakey. Pinatihaya niya 'ko at hinaplos ang aking
mukha.
"Cuddle cakes?"
"B-Bla-" I winced because I felt pain on my throat again. Ang nag-aalalang mukha
niya ay nagbago. Nakita ko ang paninigas ng panga niya at pagdilim ng kanyang
paningin. This is not my Blakey.
Tumayo siya at mabilis na hinawakan ang kwelyo ni Terrence. He dropped the glass on
the carpeted floor.
"Why is she like that? What the fvck did you do!?"
"I d-didn't do anything, man I s-swear. Nag-uusap lang kami tapos bigla siyang
nahirapan magsalita at napagod. I w-went here to give her w-water. That's the t-
truth."
"Sinungaling! Can't you see her? Mapapagod ba siya na parang tumakbo sa marathon
kung nagsasalita lang siya!?"
"As-ked h-her!" Nahihirapang sabi ni Terrence nang higpitan ni Blakey ang hawak sa
kanya. Pinilit kong tumayo kahit mahirap. I groaned before Terrence threw me a
meaningful glance.
"Don't look at her!" Napasinghap ako nang itulak ni Blakey si Terrence sa pader.
He's arm was on his neck, choking him. This Blakey scared me. I wanted to stop him
but I was weak.
Blakey's back was facing me. Tanging ang nahihirapang mukha lang ni Terrence ang
nakikita ko.
Pumasok si ate Penelope kasunod ang isang lalaking hindi ko kilala. She gasped when
she saw them.
"Osias, stop it. Let him go!" Hinila ni ate ang braso niya. "Osias! David help me."
The other man rushed and tried hard to pushed Blakey away from Terrence.
I know he can't because Blakey is a big man and David is smaller.
"You! Tell him to stop. He's gonna kill my boyfriend." Hinatak ako ni ate sa braso
at tinulak. Napaupo ako sa sahig at napainda ng sakit.
I began whimpering and Blakey was already in front of me. "Okay ka lang ba, Lee?"
Binuhat niya 'ko at pinaupo sa gilid ng kama.
Dahan dahan akong tumango. I saw Terrence coughing while holding his neck.
Nakaluhod si ate at inaalo siya. The other man was looking at me. Napaiwas lang ako
ng tingin nang hawakan ni Blakey ang mukha ko para iharap sa kanya na puno ng pag-
aalala. Gone with the scary Blakey.
"Are you okay? May masakit ba sa'yo?" Tinuro ko ang leeg ko na agad niyang
hinaplos.
"I can't believe you did this, Osias."
Ate Penelope was mad and looked at me. Nakatalikod si Blakey kaya di niya nakita
bago nakasimangot na harapin sila ni Blakey.
"And I can't believe you bring people into my house without my permission. Alam
mong maiilang si Leanna sa kanila. Sinabihan na kita noon hindi ba? Tapos
ito...hindi lang isa, dalawa pa silang nandito!"
"Fine! May kasalanan ako but I only did that because I want Leanna to know people.
To have friends nang hindi siya nakakulong dito ng mag-isa. I'm sorry, okay? But
you know that what you did was exaggeration. Inutusan ko lang magdala ng tubig ang
boyfriend ko para sa kay Leanna tapos halos patayin mo na siya." He pointed at
Terrence who's standing. "You didn't even ask for God's sake."
Biglang dumating si Manang na halatang nag-aalala at naguguluhan. "Anong nangyari

dito, hijo? Nakaring kami ng sigawan."
"Umalis na kayong lahat."
"Osias." Ate Penelope called with her soft voice.
"Saka na tayo mag-usap, Penelope. Baka hindi ko makontrol ang sarili ko and please
don't go here for the mean time. Manang, pakisamahan sila sa labas."
"Osias, makinig ka naman..." Mahinahon na sabi ni ate.
"I said we'll talk some other time. We need to be alone. Manang..." Aniya kay
manang bago tumango.
Nang makaalis na sila ay guminhawa ang pakiramdam ko kaso iniisip ko rin na baka
awayin ulit ako ni ate at ni mama. Alam kong magsusumbong siya kay mama at baka
pagalitan din si Blakey.
"Manang, lagi bang nagpapapunta dito ng mga kaibigan si Penelope." Tanong niya kay
Manang matapos kaming maghapunan.
"Hindi naman pero madalas at ung si Terrence lang ang kasama niya pero minsan iba
kagaya kanina." Sagot ni Manang habang sinasalansan ang mga pinagkainan namin.
"Anong sabi ni Leanna?"
Umiling si Blakey na nakaupo sa tabi ko bago ako dungawin ng tingin. "She won't
talk again."
Minasahe niya ang batok niya. I know he's getting tired but I can't speak. Terrence
told me not to talk to anyone.
Manang placed a saucer with a cake in front of me. I eyed it hungrily before
pulling it closer and stabbed that chocolate cake with a fork.
"Mukha namang walang nangyaring masama, hijo..."
"But she was so tired when I saw her. Halos hindi nga siya makagalaw sa kama."
"Mabait naman ung Terrence at mukang hindi gagawa ng masama. Siguro talagang
napagod lang magsalita si Leanna."
"Hindi nakakapagod ng gano'n ang pagsasalita. I would've understand if her throat

was the only one affected but it was so much tiredness."
"Mahina ang katawan ni Leanna at madaling mapagod. Baka gano'n ang nangyari. Isang
di pagkakaintindihan lang ang nangyari, hijo. Ang mabuti'y ayusin mo nalang ang sa
inyo ni Penelope."
"Tama ho siguro kayo." Bumuntong hininga siya muli.
"Hindi dapat pinapatagal ang di pagkakaintindihan." Suwesyon niya muli. "Sya nga
pala, nakita ko ung teddy bear ni Leanna sa sofa."
The next morning, mama Anita came and I stayed in our room. Pababa na sana ako nang
marinig ko ang boses niya at Blakey kaya patakbo akong bumalik.
I wished that she wouldn't go here. Pa'no kung pinapagalitan niya rin si Blakey?
I looked at Osi, the teddy bear ate Penelope took and now returned. I don't like
him anymore. Something weird happened to him. One of his eyes sometimes blinking
red especially at night. Para siyang buhay na laging nakatingin.
The door opened. I panicked and cowered back on the headboard, praying that it's
not mama Anita.
Ang isip ko ay sumigaw sa tuwa nang makita ko ang sapatos ni Blakey. Nakasuot siya
ng pampasok sa trabaho. Tumayo ako at agad na tumakbo para yakapin siya.
"Gutom ka na ba? Bumaba na tayo para makakain ka na ng agahan."
Wala si mama Anita nung kumain kami. Gusto kong tanungin kung anong pinag-usapan
nila o kung pinalo siya ni mama pero mukang maayos naman siya. I sat on Blakey's
lap at we both eat.
"Late akong uuwi mamaya, Lee. Meron kaming client meeting."
I don't know what client meeting means but I know that Blakey won't be there when I
sleep.
"Would you be t-there when I woke up?" Malungkot kong tanong.
"Of course." I smiled and nodded.
Gaya nung unang nangyari, wala si Blakey sa tabi ko bago matulog pero andyan naman
siya pagkagising ko.
Hinalikan niya ko sa labi bago siya umalis para sa trabaho.
I busied myself watching koreanovelas with Manang Josie. Cleo was crying because
Jim didn't love her anymore. He said he loved someone else.
"M-manang, what's a d-divorce?" Nanghihingi kasi si Jim.
"'Yon ay pag ayaw na nilang maging mag-asawa. Pinipirmahan 'yon tapos kailangan na
nilang maghiwalay. Halimbawa kayong dalawa ni Osias... Kailangan nang tumira ka
ulit sa papa mo kasi maghihiwalay na kayo."
I frowned. "I don't like that."
"Aba, hija diretso mong sinabi 'yon, ah." Nakangiting puna ni Manang.
Nanatili ang tingin ko sa TV. Jim was having fun with Sarah then kissed her. I
don't like Jim anymore. He made Cleo cry.
I missed Blakey.
I tossed and turn on our bed. Ilang beses ko naring chi-neck ung locks pero wala
parin siya. Baka hindi siya makapasok kaso naka-lock? Hindi kasi may susi siya.
What if he lost it?
Tumayo ako at bubuksan sana ang pinto. What if the bad men come?
Bumalik ako sa pagkakahiga at umungol. I don't know what to do...
I looked at Osi. One of his eyes are red. I whimpered and covered my whole body
with the sheets.
I'm scared of him.
Days passed and Blakey kept on having business meetings and more work. I hate his
work. Hindi ko na siya nakakatabi matulog. Though he's here when I woke up, I still
miss him.
"Do you have to g-go to w-work?"
"I'm sorry, Lee. I'll make it up to you, okay?"
Ngumuso ako at yumuko. Ibig sabihin hindi ko siya makikita buong araw. Nakakainis.
He kissed and hugged me. I hugged him also. He smelled nice. Binaon ko ang mukha ko
sa leeg niya at inamoy.
"I don't want you to g-go..."
"I'm sorry, cuddle cakes." Binulong niya at hinalikan ang ulo ko.
I know he's sad too because of his voice. Now, I don't like his work more.
The next week, it got worst. Paggising ko wala si Blakey. He broke his promise.
Wala siya sa tabi ko.
"Good you're up."
"M-Mama..." I felt chills down my spine that made me shivered.
Nasa sofa si Mama Anita pagbaba ko. Agad akong nakaramdam ng takot. I wanna ran
back to my room pero hindi ako makagalaw sa kinatatayuan ko habang nakatingin siya
sa'kin.
"I'll give you a lesson you can never forget, dear daughter. Go to your room!"
Chapter 17
"You stupid little girl! Ang lakas ng loob mong magsumbong!" Hawak niya ang buhok
ko ng mahigpit habang naglalakad kami papunta sa kwarto.
My scalps were burning as she dragged me by my hair. It hurts and my tears were
starting to fall from my eyes. I winced and whimpered but she didn't care.
She tossed me to the floor the moment we entered the room. Gumapang ako papunta
paatras hanggang sa tumama ang likod ko sa aparador. She was looking down at me
with sharp stares.
"How much did you tell Osias?" Her voice was so calm but I felt scared.
"I...didn't, m-mama."
"Liar." She spats. "How dare you say bad things about Penelope!?"
Niyakap ko ang aking tuhod at binaon ang mukha do'n. Wala naman talaga akong
sinabi. Hindi ako nagsumbong. I was a good girl. I do everything they say.
Bawat ingay ng galaw niya ay nagpapanginig sa'kin. I know that the pain is close.
"Ahhh..."
Stop it, please...
I cried as I felt her first strike on my body.
"Not a single sound." She warned and I immediately bit my lip to shut it.
Bago ako pumikit ay nakita kong isang sinturon ang pinanghahampas niya. It was
Blakey's. Bawat hampas ay may galit at sakit. Mariin na para bang napakalaki ng
kasalanan ko.
Once again, she dragged me by my hair and pulled me then hit me again.
Her hits were all on my body. On the back and my torso. Balak niyang 'wag mag-iwan
ng marka sa hindi nakikita.
"Ayusin mo ang sarili mo." She left me whimpering, eyes shut tight on the cold
floor.
Nang masiguro ko nang wala siya ay halos gumapang ako papunta sa banyo. Tumukod ako
sa counter at umungol habang inaangat ang sarili.
My eyes locked on a broken girl with messy hair, flushed cheeks and red eyes from
almost crying. My body hurts. Everything hurts.
Tinanggal ko ang damit ko. Napapangiwi ako sa bawat dampi ng tela sa aking balat.
Red and swollen skin reflected from the mirror. My tummy and back had the most.
Gusto ko nang umiyak. Bakit ba nangyayari sa'kin to? Why are they so mean to me?
I bit my trembling lip. Hindi dapat ako umiyak. I am a strong girl. There's going
to be a good thing tomorrow. Just don't cry.
Every time this happens, I keep thinking about the same. As long as I keep looking
forward for tomorrow, I have no reason to cry. Mommy told me that.
Ang pamamaga at sakit ay humupa matapos ang maraming araw. Blakey didn't notice
because he's not always here. Maaga siyang umaalis at kinabukasan na pagkagising ko
siya nakikita.
Pinapanood ko siyang kumuha ng damit. I'm happy because he's here all day because
it's Sunday. Nakatagilid siya sa'kin at ako ay nakaupo sa kama.
"Lee, may four days seminar kami at the end of the month." I tilted my head and
frowned in confusion. Napalingon siya sa'kin nang hindi ako sumagot.
"That means that I'll be away for four days." Paliwanag niya habang nagsusuot ng
sando. My frown deepened.
"Are we g-getting a divorce?" What I said made him stopped in pulling down the hem
of his clothes. Being away with your husband is a divorce, right?
"No. Sa'n mo nalaman 'yan?"
"TV" bumuntong hininga siya at umupo sa tabi ko.
"We're not getting a divorce. Kahit kailan, okay? Not everything that happens on TV
applies to reality. Kahit annulment hindi tayo kukuha. You'll always be my wife."
"Really? You won't k-kiss other girl like J-Jim?"
"N-No..." He said quietly and forced a smile at me. He kissed my forehead and
hugged me tight. Agad naman akong nakampante.
"Blakey?"
"Hmm?" Humiwalay ako at tinignan siya maiigi.
"Can you b-be my tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow?" Mabilis akong tumango at ngumiti. Napayuko ako at pinaglaruan ang mga
daliri niya.
"My mommy said I shouldn't cry when I got hurt because tomorrow will bring good and
it would make me happy. You're a good man and you always make me happy. You kiss
and hug me and it makes me smile. Like I'm the best good girl specially when you
gave me cakes." I looked up to him smiling. "If you'll be my tomorrow, I won't be
sad anymore?"
"You felt sad? Why?" Kunot noo niyang sabi. Napayuko ulit ako.
"When you're not here." Nalulungkot naman talaga ako 'pag wala siya pero hindi ako
pwedeng magsumbong.
"I'm so sorry..." He placed me on his lap and hugged me. "Hindi ko napansin na
nalulungkot ka na."
"It's okay."
"No it's not. I'm your husband, cuddle cakes and it's my job to make you happy."
Tiningala ko siya. I smiled and kissed him 'cause he called me cuddle cakes again.
Nito kasi Lee lang ang tawag niya sa'kin...
"I'm not just going to be your tomorrow, cuddle cakes. I'll be your tomorrow and
forever..."
"Tomorrow and forever?"
"Tomorrow and forever." He assured and kissed me until I ran out of breath. We both
smiled at each other after than cuddled our ourselves to sleep.
My tomorrow and forever is happening with Blakey. Lagi na siyang umuuwi ng maaga
simula no'n at talaga namang napakasaya ko. Pumunta ulit kami sa Enchanted. Hindi
na 'ko sumakay ng ferris wheel pero sumakay kami ng roller coaster. It's was scary
but we were both laughing after the ride.
Tinignan ko ang larawan sa cellphone ko na sinend sa'kin. I smiled and turned it
off. I usually received this images that makes me happy.
I ate cakes and cotton candy. Blakey bought them because I didn't have money.
"Are you sad, my husband?" I asked him. Hindi siya umuwi kagabi at nakita ko siya
paggising ko na nakaupo sa dulo ng kama. He looked sad while he covered his face
with both hand. Naka pampasok parin siya at magulo ang buhok.
They had this party again. Daddy was there too.
Agad siyang napangiti sa'kin at malungkot na ngumiti. He's sad. I know. Agad akong
nag-alala. I don't want him sad like this.
"Do you have headaches? Masakit ang tummy?" Hinawakan ko ang ulo niya at tinignan
din ang tiyan.
Hinuli niya ang mga kamay ko at napatingin sa kanya. His eyes shows pure sadness
and guilt. He looked pained too.
Maya maya ay bigla niya 'kong niyakap ng mahigpit. His head breathing down my neck.
It sent shivers on my body. Our close distance made me smell his weird scent. Andon
parin ang amoy na gusto ko sa kanya pero may nakahalo don. Hindi ko alam kung ano.
"I'm sorry, Lee..."
"Why?"
"I'm sorry."
I don't understand why he kept saying sorry but I hugged him tight like what he's
doing to me. Hinaplos ko ang buhok niya na humaba na.
"It's okay." His shoulders shook and I know that it's really not okay.
We found ourselves laying back to bed. Hindi kami natulog. Basta nakahiga lang kami
habang nakayakap. The silence between us was not awkward. It was comfortable
rather.
I want to ask him what's wrong but I'm hesitating.
"Are you hungry, Blakey?"
"No." He whispered. "Ikaw?" Umiling ako. "Good because I want us to stay like this
for a long time."
Tiningala ko siya at natagpuan ko siyang nakadungaw na sa'kin. "Ako din." Be both

smiled and he hugged me tighter.
"Your speech is getting better..."
"Talaga?" I asked. Hindi ko naman kasi napapansin eh. He chuckled and I felt him
kissed my head.
Lumayo siya at hinawakan ang baba ko para itingala at tignan siya.
"You're the most special woman in my life, cuddle cakes. Remember that. No other
woman could replace your place as my wife."
Nakikita ko ang determinasyon sa kanyang mga mata. Sobra itong seryoso at halos
matangay ang hangin sa dibdib ko sa tindi no'n.
"Tomorrow and forever..."
"Yes, my wife. Tomorrow and forever." I closed my eyes as he dipped down and kissed
me.
That kissed took my breath away. I felt his tongue coaxed on my bottom lip. Alam ko
ang gusto niya kaya ibinuka ko ang aking mga labi. He tasted me and I tasted him,
copying his every moved.
Naramdaman ko ang pakiramdam na laging dumarating sa'kin 'pag ginagawa namin 'to.
But it was different this time. It's more hot and it felt good. He shifted our
position so that I was beneath him.
Hinihingal ako nang iwan niya ang mga labi ko para bumaba sa aking leeg. His hand
cupped my breast that heightened the beat of my heart.
His other hand on my legs crawled up, caressing and leaving trail of goosebumps
where he's touching.
"Blakey..." I called, panting.
He kissed my collarbone once before looking at me. Madilim ang mga mata niya na
nagpakilabot sa'kin. He's not scary but his eyes say that he want something. Me.
"I want you so much. Never I have ever wanted as much as you. Make love to me, Lee.
Let's make love and I'll give you the baby you want. Let's make a family."
Hinaplos niya ng marahan ang aking pisngi. Napapikit ako at napangiti bago ko
muling maramdaman ang halik niya. It was more hot and intense. Our tongues played
viciously like we didn't want to stop. He tastes sweet more than any cakes or
cotton candies.
His lips attended to my breast. I gasped as the feeling on my stomach tightened.

Naramdaman ko ang paghila niya sa aking underwear kasabay no'n ang pagbukas ng
aking mata. Then I saw Osi, eyes blinking red.
Agad ko siyang tinulak. I moved away to the other side of the bed. Nagulat siya at
parang na-estatwang tumingin sa'kin.
"No." Mabilis akong umling. "S-Sorry..."
Nang mawala ang gulat niya ay napalitan ito ng malungkot na ekspresyon. Mas mabigat
kaysa kanina. He sighed and held the back of his neck, eyes looking down.
"B-Blakey." Imbes na sagutin ako ay tumayo siya at nagpunta sa banyo.
My chest felt hot and heavy. A sudden pain pierced through my heart. I wanted to
call him back but I couldn't. Bumalik ako sa pagkakahiga at nagsilabasan ang aking
mga luha.
I didn't tell myself not to cry. It's okay to cry because it's for Blakey. For my
husband and he's not just my tomorrow.
He's my tomorrow and forever.

Sa mga nagtatanong kung sexually abused ba siya....
Next chapter niyo malalaman. Ahahaha.
Sa mga naguguluhan, alam ko naman na naguguluhan pa kayo at naghahanap ng mga sagot

ang kaso lang, kapag nilagay ko sa isang chapter lahat ng kasagutan, pangit naman
'yon. Ano nang aabangan niyo sa next chapters?
Sa mga naghihintay ng revelation, malapit na ang POV ni Osias. Antayin niyo nalang.
Antayin niyo rin ang chapter 20. May mangyayari.

Chapter 18-1
As promised.
"I WANT a grand party, dad." Andito kami ngayon sa may garden. I wanted to play
with the flowers but I needed to behave.
Nakaupo ako sa harap ni Mama Anita. I looked up through my eyelashes to see her
sipping her coffee. Napayuko agad ako ng matapos siya. Nakakatakot na makipag eye
contact sa kanya.
Ate Penelope seemed to be happy with her upcoming birthday. Nasa kanan siya ni Mama
Anita.
"I want it to be held in Hotel de Grande." Dagdag niya pa.
"Sige lang, Penelope. Ikaw na ang bahala. I'll pay for everything just for you to
enjoy."
"Thanks, dad. You're the best." Mas lalong lumawaka ng ngiti niya. I saw her smirk
that she threw my way.
The thinking that my daddy loves her more makes me bit my lips. Sinabi niya sa'kin
'yon no'n at mukang totoo dahil bibigyan siya ni daddy ng birthday party.
But I know that daddy loves me. Kahit ga'no kalaki o kaliit 'yon, okay lang as long
as he loves me.
"Don't you like your cake, darling?" Napalingon ako kay daddy na nasa kaliwa ko. He
looks concern.
"W-Where's Blakey, daddy?" Agad namang nawala ang pag-aalala niya at ngumiti.
"Don't worry, darling pauwi na 'yon." He assured. "Ikaw, Leanna. A month after your
ate's birthday, ikaw naman. What do you want for your birthday? Daddy will take
care of it."
"My birthday..." Naguguluhan akong tumingin sa kanya pero biglang pumasok sa isip
ko ang ibig niyang sabihin. Lumawak ang ngiti ko.
Yes! Birthday ko na.
"My birthday's July 4." Masaya kong sabi.
"Yes, darling. Anong gusto mo? A trip around the world? A grand birthday party like
your ate? Expensive things? Kahit ano... You say it and daddy will take care of it
personally."
Ngumuso ako at nag-isip. I really don't know what to say. But then, there's this
one thing that I really want. I was about to say it but Mama Anita spoke.
"I don't think na kailangan ni Leanna 'yon, honey. With her condition, I think it's
best for it to be private. Isa pa, hindi mo pa siya napapakilala officially. People
knew that you have a daughter aside from Penelope but they don't really know her."
Kumunot ang noo ni daddy at nag-isip. "You're right." He agreed. "But you gave me
an idea."
"What is it, dad?" Ate asked.
"I'm going to formally introduce her to the world."
"What? Honey are you sure?" Mama said smiling but I know it's fake.
"It's time for them to know my daughter and I am one hundred percent sure that
they'll accept her as my heiress."
"Your heiress, honey?"
"Of course. Wala namang ibang magmamana ng lahat ng 'to kung hindi siya." Daddy
looked down on me, smiling.
Ate was being quiet. Nakita ko ang mahigpit na paghawak niya ng tinidor habang
kumakain ng spaghetti.
"I have a better idea, honey. What if you also announce them Penelope as your legal
daughter? Matagal na ring na postpone ang pagpapalit ng surname niya. Her birthday
is the right time."
"I never thought about that one for a long time. Kailangan kasi ng consent ng
father niya at hindi pa siya nahahanap ng mga inutusan ko. Do you have any news
about him?"
I busied myself eating my cake while they talk about it further. Blakey arrived a
couple of minutes later.
Kumain at nag-usap sila habang kumakain kami ng meryenda. I kept quiet for the
entire time. Hindi ko rin naman maintindihan kasi tungkol lahat sa work.
I didn't forget to give daddy a goodbye kiss when they left. Tinanong niya muna
sa'kin kung ano ang gusto kong gift sa birthday ko tapos binulong ko sa kanya.
I said I want a baby. He was shocked at first. His eyes were big then he laughed. I
don't know why but I hope he'll give me my gift.
"Kailan s-seminar, Blakey?" I asked him as we prepare for sleep. I was done and he
was brushing his teeth. I could see him here in the bed.
"Monday." Lumabas siya, pinupunasan ang mukha ng towel. It's Friday so that means
it's close.
"Can I come?" Nangunot ang noo niya. "I don't wanna be alone..." Dagdag ko pa.
Natatakot ako kasi baka pumunta ulit dito sila mama. I saw how both of them glared
at me.
Umupo siya sa tabi ko at bumuntong hininga. "It's work, Lee. Baka mabagot kalang
do'n."
"No I won't. I'll be a good g-girl. I promise."
"I know you're a good girl but-"
"Please, Blakey..." I frowned and look at him sadly. I hope he'll say yes. Kapag
ganito ang ang itsura ko lagi akong pinapayagan ni daddy.
Please say yes.
"Fine." Yehey! "Siguro kailangan nating magbakasyon. We'll leave tomorrow so we can
have our time before my seminar. Are you fine with that?"
"Yes!" Mabilis ko siyang niyakap at hinalikan. He chuckled and I was giggling to

happiness.
Kinabukasan ay maaga niya 'kong ginising kasi aalis na kami.
"Ba bye, manang Josie." I waved at her and she waved back. Malaki ang aking ngiti
habang tumatakbo papunta kay Blakey na katabi ang sasakyan at niyakap siya.
He hugged me using one hand as he talked on the phone using the other. Tiningala ko
siya habang nakayakap at nakangiting dinungaw niya 'ko. I kissed him that made his
smile turned into grin.
"Me and my wife will extend our stay to six days.... Is everything settled? Thank
you. We'll arrive around noon... Yes... Bye."
Matapos ng tawag ay humarap siya sa'kin. "Excited, cuddle cakes?" He chuckled and I
answered it with a nod and giggles.
"Then tara na. Aalis na tayo."
Binuksan niya ang pinto ng sasakyan sa tabi niya at pumasok ako. Nag seatbelt ako.
Bumukas ang pinto sa kabila at pumasok siya.
Ngumiti muli siya sa'kin bago paandarin ang sasakyan. Kapag humihinto ang sasakyan
ay hinahawakan niya ang kamay ko. Hindi ko naman maiwasang mamangha dahil sa
pagbabago ng paligid.
Huminto kami para kumain sa isang magandang restaurant. A girl lead us to the
table. I like her 'cause she always smiles.
"Kumain ka ng marami. Ipagbabalat kita ng buttered shrimp." Sabi ni Blakey habang

nilalagyan ng kanin ang plato ko.
Pinagbalat niya nga ako ng hipon. Ang sarap no'n. My stomach got bigger after I ate
lunch.
Inantok naman ako pagkabalik namin sa sasakyan. He told me that I could sleep.
Ginawa ko ang sinabi niya.
Nang magising ako ay nasa tapat na kami ng malaking hotel.
"Ako na po ang magdadala niyang bag, ma'am." Sabi ng lalaking maghahatid sa'min.
Ang tinutukoy niya ay ang aking backpack. He was smiling wide and I think he's
friendly but I still don't know.
Pumunta ako sa likod ni Blakey. Nagtaka si kuya.
"Let her be." Mariing sabi ni Blakey. Tumango naman si kuya at kinuha ang ibang
gamit namin.
"Enjoy your stay, Mr. and Mrs. Alcazar."
Tinakbo ko agad ang kama at nag-dive do'n. It's so soft and bouncy so I jumped and
jumped.
"I ordered us dinner. Mag-ayos muna tayo tapos bukas na tayo mamasyal."
"Okay!" He shook his head, amused while starting to take off his clothes and went
to the bathroom.
Nang mapagod ako ay tumigil ako sa pagtalon at umupo. I took off my bag and pulled
out Doggie. Sinama ko siya kasi sabi ni Blakey maiiwan akong mag-isa pag nag-
seminar siya. I placed him on the pillows.
"Stay there, okay?" Seryoso kong sabi kay Doggie, my stuffed dog. It should be Osi
but I still don't like him.
I crawled out of the bed and run to our suitcase. I prepared my clothes and waited
for Blakey to be done. I chose my Dora the Explorer pajama dress.
Naayos na ni Blakey ang bathtub kaya nakapagbabad na 'ko agad. There were so many
bubbles and it smelled sweet like cinnamon.
The dinner arrived when he's combing my hair and I was reminding Doggie to behave.
Ang daming pagkain tapos may cake pa. Nanood lang kami saglit ng TV matapos kumain
bago naisipang matulog. Nang nakahiga na 'ko sa kama ay naalala ko ung nangyari
sa'min noon. Sinundan ko ng tingin si Blakey na may hinahanap sa maleta.
I kept questioning myself if Blakey's mad at me for stopping what we're doing that
time. He didn't seem mad. The truth is, I'm the one that's upset.
Tumabi siya sa'kin. I already felt the comfortable heat that his body was
releasing. When he wrapped his arms around me, I moved to reach his lips with mine.
Nanlaki ang mata niya sa gulat nang humiwalay ako.
"What was that for, cuddle cakes?" Hindi ko siya sinagot. Hinalikan ko muli siya
gaya ng kung pa'no siya humalik sa'kin.
I'm not sure what I'm doing but I used my tongue to trace the plump of his lower
lip. He smiled before opening up. That means I did good. Biglang parang nagkaroon
ako ng lakas ng loob.
Pumatong ako sa kanya. He placed a palm on my lower back and grabbed the back of my
head, pushing my face closer.
A sound came from my mouth when he pushed my tongue inside my mouth. Humiwalay ako.
"I want to s-start a family with my h-husband." Sabi ko na mas lalo niyang
kinagulat.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes." I took a deep breath. "Osi's not here and he c-can't see us anymore."
"Osi? Kaya ba umiwas ka no'n dahil sa kanya?"
Tumango ako at kinagat ang aking labi. His eyes moved to my lips before licking his
own. His eyes darkened and clouded by something.
"You don't know how happy this makes me..." Sabi niya sa mababang boses.
"If this makes y-you happy then I w-want to start now." He chuckled and touched my
lips.
Kinilabutan ako sa dampi ng daliri niya sa'kin. Ang kamay niya sa likod ko ay
humahaplos, pataas at pababa.
"Kiss me."
Next chapter in private.

Chapter 18-2
Pumikit ako at unti unting nilapit ang aking mga labi sa kanya. Nang dumikit ito ay
parang sinindihan ang init sa katawan ko. His gripped on my waist tightened and
pushed me lightly before changing our position.
Sa umpisa ay mabagal lang ito pero agad itong nagbago. It was like we're
communicating with our movements for I granted him entrance as he pushed in his
tongue again.
Gumalaw ito na para bang may hinahanap. Agad akong hiningal. Lumayo siya para
tanggalin ang sando niya at pajama nang hindi pinuputol ang tinginan namin. Namula
ang mukha ko nang makita ang dibdib at tyan niya. His muscles were so define and
looked hard then he pushed Doggie out off the bed.
"He might look." He said, smiling. I giggled until I saw how his eyes darkened more
and went serious.
He then took my clothes off, slowly and carefully. He tossed it somewhere before
touching the hem of my underwear. He was taking his time on this. Tumaas ang init
na aking nararamdaman.
I covered my breast and my lady part before looking away. Daddy said when I was
little that no one should see them except for my husband but I was still shy. He
saw me naked before every time he helped me to shower but this felt different.
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko at ikinulong sa taas ng aking ulo.
"You don't have to cover them, my little wife. They're only for my eyes to see. I'm
the only man who get to see this perfection. You're perfect."
Hinalikan niya muli ako. Saglit lang 'yon dahil agad na bumaba ang mga labi niya sa
panga ko, pababa sa leeg at dibdib.
I felt his tongue swirling on my nipple before sucking it. Every move he did made
me pant harder and deeper.
I felt my lower stomach got heavy and tight. Like there was a knot being pulled.
Ginawa niya muli 'yon sa kabila habang ang kamay niya ay pumipisil sa isa. My now
free hands went to gripped his hair. He groaned and sucked more.
I gasped loud when I felt his other hand cupped me down there. He touched
something. I don't know what it is but the knot in my stomach felt more tight and
heavier.
Mas lalo akong hiningal at napapikit. Ang katawan ko ay nagsimula nang pagpawisan
dahil sa init ng nararamdaman ko kasama ng init na mula sa kanya.
"B-Blakey." He pushed a finger inside while rubbing the tip. He looked and kissed
me hard before nibbling my neck while moving his fingers. My heart beats like it
wants to come out of my chest.
Ilang segundo lang ang tinagal niya do'n dahil bumaba siya sa pagitan ng mga hita
ko. Inangat ko ang katawan ko para umurong pataas pero hinawakan niya ang aking mga
hita.
"Just stay there, my wife. Let me pleasure you." I slumped back to bed, eyes shut
tight with heavy breathing.
He kissed me there and I almost shouted. Bumalik ang mga daliri niya do'n habang
gumagalaw ang kanyang mga dila. One hand of mine gripped the sheets beside my head
and the other on his hair.
Umangat ng kusa ang aking balakang. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin.
The feeling in my stomach hardened and kept hardening. It's like something's about
to explode.
"Blakey... S-Something's c-coming. Blakey!" Parang hindi niya ko naririnig at

pinagbutihan pa ang ginagawa. I felt wet down there. Naririnig ko ang bawat galaw
ng dila at daliri niya.
I started shaking. He moved his face away. "Don't hold it back, Lee. Make your
release." I tried nodding and the pressure kept on getting harder and heavier until
I couldn't held it.
I quiver and moaned his name loud.
Nanatili akong nakapikit matapos, naghahabol ng hininga. Nang idilat ko ang aking
mga mata ay nakapantay na siya at agad na nagtagpo ang paningin namin. Napalunok
ako nang may maramdamang tumatama sa puson ko. It was hard, hot and big.
"I...p-peed?" Hingal na hingal ako na halos hindi na makabuo ng salita.
"That's your first orgasm, my wife and it's a pleasure to be the one who make you
experience that." He said with a sweet smile and kissed me.
"Remember when I told you that it would hurt? Ito na 'yon, Lee. I don't want to
hurt you but you will pero gaya ng ipinangako ko, I'll be here, holding your hand
and hugging you."
Bigla akong kinabahan pero alam kong andyan lang siya at hindi ako iiwan.
"It's fine. Hindi mo n-naman ako iiwan, diba?" Nawala ang pag-aalala sa mukha niya
at napangiti.
He held my hand and wrapped his other arm around my waist. "I'll be here."
Napalunok muli ako dahil sa lakas ng tibok ng aking puso. Mas pinaghiwalay niya ang
mga hita ko. He moved himself and the hard thing that was poking me went between my
thighs.
My breathing and pulse hitched higher. "Just look at me, cuddle cakes. I'm here."
"O-okay." Napalunok ako.
"Ready?"
Tumango ako kahit hindi sigurado. Naramdaman ko ang pagpasok sa'kin. At first it
wasn't that painful but when Blakey did another push, I shouted in pain and had my
eyes shut.
"It h-hurts!" Tinutulak ng libreng kamay ko ang balikat niya.
It really hurts so bad. It felt like something was torn inside me and I couldn't
stop the tears to drop.
"Lee, look at me. Open your eyes." Dahan dahan ko siyang tinignan habang lumuluha.
"Blakey, it h-hurts so much..." I cried.
"I know pero nandito ako. Look." Inilagay niya sa pisngi niya ang aking kamay. Yung
hawak hawak niya. He kissed my fingers before opening them so I was palming his
cheeks. To feel him. To assure me that he's here with me.
"See? I'm here. Yakap yakap ka at hawak ang kamay mo. Diba nangako ako?"
Pinunasan ko ang mga luha ko at tumango.
"I'm gonna push in further. Basta isipin mong andito lang ako lagi. Hindi ako
aalis."
He pecked my lips and Blakey moved. Masakit ulit siya pero hindi na ko umiyak. I
winced and whimper but Blakey was with me so I managed to endure it.
When he was fully in, nag stay siyang gano'n para daw pahupain ang sakit. We kissed
and kissed until the pain disappeared.
Nagsimula na siyang gumalaw. I whimpered but this time, it's not because of the
pain. The pain turned to something warm and good. With his every move, I felt
satisfaction and happiness.
"Fvck, Lee. Y-You're so t-tight." He groaned and moved faster.
The tight knot in my returned. Pabilis ng pabilis ang galaw niya. My body moved up
and down, syncing with his movement.
Pinapulupot niya ang mga hita ko sa bewang niya. Ipinirmi ko naman iyon. He buried
his face on the crook of my neck and my arms hugged his neck.
I felt his heartbeat, the same rhythm as mine. Ramdam ko ang mainit na hininga niya
sa aking leeg.
Nakakakilabot at nakakawala ng isip. Wala nang pumapasok sa isip ko kung hindi ang
paggalaw niya at ang sarap na dulot no'n.
He moved faster and faster and the knot get tighter and tighter.
Umangat siya at hinawakan ang mga hita ko. He moved harder and faster. Each thrust
with each groan. I moaned with him.
"B-Bla...key!" It's coming again! I can feel it!
"I k-know...ugh! I'm close." I started shaking again. Napatingala ako at napaarko
ang aking katawan.
He pushed a couple of times before I felt something explode again. He kept

thrusting until I heard him groan louder before I felt something hot inside me.
Bumaba siya at hinalikan ako. His body remained above me with his hand on both side
of my head. I can still feel him inside me.
We were panting both hard. Nakatingin lang sa isa't isa. His eyes shows happiness,
contentment and love. I gave him the same.
"You're really mine now. I can't believe it." Hinaplos niya ang pingi ko. Napapikit
ako at dinama ang bawat galaw ng kamay niya.
"I'm y-yours." I panted. "I love you, Blakey..."
Huminto ang kamay niya napadilat ako. I was afraid to open my eyes because he might
get mad. Mama said I don't deserve to love or be loved. That's why I'm afraid to
say it to him kahit na gustong gusto ko.
"Look at me, my wife." He pulled out and that awesome feeling made me open my eyes.
"There's nothing wrong with what you said, Lee. I'm your husband. You have no idea
how happy and awesome you made me feel. I love waking up next to you. Gusto kong
andyan ako 'pag kailangan mo. Gusto kong ako lang ang hahanapin mo, ang nasa tabi
mo. When I'm away with you, it's killing me, cuddle cakes." He said, eyes shining
bright with full of sincerity. Parang may kamay na humaplos sa puso ko.
"I can't say that I love you because I'm not. Not yet. Pero kung ano man ang
nararamdaman ko, I know that it's more than like. Mas mabigat ito sa pagkakagusto.
I want to tell you how I feel but there's no words to describe it and its hard.
It's hard not to tell you. Pero hanggang wala pa, gusto kong malaman mong ikaw ang
pinakamahalagang babae sa buhay ko. I couldn't say the word out loud but I'll make
sure that you feel it everyday. Starting this very night, then tomorrow until
forever."
He hugged and kissed me again while switching our position.
My tears started to fall to his cheeks and he stopped kissing me.
"Shh. Don't cry, my wife."
"I'm h-happy..." I sobbed but smiled. Hindi pa 'ko nakaiyak ng ganito. Napakatagal
na nung huli.
"You're making the feeling stronger because of your cuteness, wife. I think I can't
control myself any longer if this continues."
Suminghot ako habang pinupunasan niya ang mga luha ko.
"I love y-you, Blakey. Tomorrow and forever."
"Tomorrow and forever."

Chapter 19
SPG
LAST NIGHT was unforgettable.
After what happened, Blakey held me in his arms all night. The feeling was
overwhelming. I felt complete. He made me feel complete.
Maaga akong nagising. I was thinking of surprising him, to cook breakfast but he
woke up first. Nakayakap parin siya at pinagmamasdan akong matulog.
"Good morning, my adorable wife."
"Good morning too, my beautiful husband." Tumawa siya at pinaibabawan ako bago
nagbago sa pagtataka ang itsura niya. My hands closed to my chest.
"Your speaking. It improves a lot..."
"I'm a good girl and I'm practicing."
"You're practicing?"
Tumango ako. "Araw araw 'pag wala akong ginagawa. I think what I w-want to say f-
first then s-speak." I want to say something more but my throat started hurting
again. Nakita niya ito at ngumiti. He kissed my neck that made me giggled.
"Stop talking, Lee. Hindi ka pa siguro sanay. But you're not also a good girl.
You're also smart and brave especially last night. Masakit pa ba?"
I frowned and nodded. "I'm sorry, cuddle cakes. Siguro dito muna tayo buong araw.
Bukas nalang tayo mamasyal. Just rest here and I'll order breakfast."
Umalis siya matapos halikan ang aking pisngi. Hindi na 'ko gagawa ng breakfast.
Nakalimutan kong walang kusina dito.
Hinanap ko si Doggie na nasa ilalim ng kama at niyakap matapos mahiga. I

unconsciously touched my lady part between my legs. It hurts a bit but I'm happy.
It made me smile remembering what we did last night.
I remember him touching and kissing me everywhere.
"Be a good boy, Doggie so you could be happy too like me." I shrieked and embraced
him.
Tinawag ako ni Blakey. Dumating na daw ang agahan. I can't find my clothes last
night so I took his instead. Nagmadali akong magbihis.
Blakey was slowly eyeing me all over my body. Tumigas ang panga niya at madilim ang
tingin. I felt my cheeks flushed in deep red.
"Dämn, cuddle cakes. I think we're not gonna rest all day."
He was right. We did it again and again. Kahit na noong magstart ang seminar niya.
Sa kwarto lang ako kasi hindi daw pwede akong lumabas. Naghihintay akong umuwi siya
habang nanonood o nakikipaglaro kay Doggie tapos 'pag dumating siya, kakain kami
then make love.
He explained to me that it's called making love and making love resulted to babies.
Yey, babies!
"Mukang masaya ang prinsesa ng mansyon, ah." Tanong ni Manang Josie habang nag-
aayos ng hapag para sa agahan.
Kahapon kami bumalik at talagang napakasaya ko. Pinatong ko ang ulo ko sa mga braso
kong nakalagay sa lamesa. I looked up at Manang and smiled widely.
"'Wag kang gumanyan sa hapag kay masama 'yan, hija." Napanguso ako at umupo ng
maayos. "Gisingin mo nalang si Osias."
Bumalik ang ngiti sa'kin at tumakbo paakyat sa kwarto. He was still sleeping.
Nakaisip ako ng ideya. Sumampa ako sa kama at dinambahan siya.
He groaned as I laughed and hugged him. I shrieked when he hugged and placed me
beside him.
"Good morning, my wife." I giggled on how groggy that sounded.
"Good morning, husband." I greeted back then gave him a sloppy good morning kiss.
"Good morning, Manang." He said as we enter the dining room.
"Magandang umaga rin." Aniya pabalik. Umupo na si Blakey at syempre ako sa mga hita
niya.
His arm around my waist secured me in place while he drank his coffee.
"Nakakatuwa at napakasaya mo ngayon, hija."
"Blakey and I made love last n-night." Tumalsik ang iniinom ni Blakey sa puting
damit ko nang muntik na siyang masamid.
Manang laughed while I frown, looking at the stain in my long sleeved dress.
"I'm sorry, cuddle cakes." He wiped it with napkin but it's still there.
"Kaya naman pala." Sabi ni Manang, nangingiti. "Kung gano'n ay malapit na bang
magkaroon ng bata dito, Osias?"
At the mention of kids, biglang lumiwanag ang itsura ko. "Babies!" I shouted and
they both laughed.
"Are you ready, Doggie?" Bulong ko kay Doggie na nakaipit sa braso ko.
I was holding a hankie on it's both side as I tiptoed closer to Osi, the evil teddy
bear. I think he's sleeping 'cause his eyes are not red so Doggie and I decided to
make a mission.
"One...two...three!" Inihagis ko ang panyo sa mukha niya bago tumakbo at nagtago sa

ilalim ng kama. I peeked and saw his eyes were now covered!
"Ang galing natin, doggie! Galing! Galing!" I smiled and moved out under the bed
and did a happy dance with Doggie.
"I thought you're practicing your speech when I'm away." I saw Blakey standing near
the door.
"Blakey!" Tumakbo ako papunta sa kanya. He chuckled and dropped his suitcase before
opening his arms wide.
I wrapped my arms around his neck and my legs on his waist. I welcomed him with
many kisses.
"Look." Tinuro ko si Osi.
"Hindi niya na tayo makikita kung gano'n? We can make love in here instead in the
guest room? Very good, cuddle cakes." I grinned with proud. "Do you think he can
still hear us?"
I gasped. Hindi ko naisip 'yon!
"Don't worry. Akong bahala." Humakbang siya palapit kay Osi habang buhat pa 'ko.
He carefully held Osi's neck as I held my breath. He opened the lower drawer of the
cabinet with his feet and dropped him there. Saka ko lang napakawalan ang hininga
ko nang isarado niya 'yon.
"That takes care of him. Give me a kiss for a reward." The way he demanded wth his
husky voice sent shivers down my entire body.
I kissed him like he wanted. I was immediately drunk with the kiss that we share.
"I really miss you but let's make it quick. It's almost dinner and I don't want you
hungry or skipping any meals."
Hinalikan niya ko nang nagmamadali. Sinandal niya ko sa pader habang patuloy na

hinahalikan. He held and tilted the back of my neck so he could have access more.
He was getting bigger as he pushed himself against me. Napaungol ako nang may
tumama sa hita ko.
We were doing it in a fast pace. Hindi ako makasabay kaya hinayaan ko ang sariki
kong madala sa ginagawa niya.
He nibbled on my neck as I felt him moved my underwear to the side. Hinalikan niya
muli ako kasabay ng pagpasok ng daliri niya. I moaned through the kiss.
Humiwalay ako sa halik dahil hindi ko na kayang makipagsabayan. My mouth parted as

I looked up, my body arching. He kept his fingers pumping until I felt myself near.
"Blakey!" I moaned.
Bigla niya 'kong binaba. My knees felt wobbly and weak. Buti nalang hawak niya 'ko
sa bewang at hindi ako natumba.
"Turn around and hold the edge." Tumalikod ako at hinawakan ang kanto ng kabinet.
I heard him unbuckling his belt as well as my heavy and shallow breathing. After
some seconds, he pushed me carefully so now I was bending forward.
He lifted my dress and pulled down my underwear. I felt his hands gripped my hips
before thrusting inside me.
Napaungol ako at napakagat ng labi. Dahan dahan niya itong ginawa kaya ramdam na
ramdam ko ang init niya. It was also pulsating.
Moans, groans and the slapping of our bodies were the sounds that could only be
heard as well as the creaking of the cabinet.
"Fvck! Lee, I'm close." He groaned.
He continued thrusting and the feeling in my stomach got intense until it exploded.
Kasabay no'n ay ang sa kanya.
I almost fell on the ground. Thank God he caught me on time. Binuhat niya 'ko at
itinaas ang panty ko bago humiga sa aking tabi. We were both clothed and panting.
He pulled me close and kissed me again. "You're wonderful, cuddle cakes." Hindi ko
siya nasagot dahil naghahabol pa din ako ng hininga.
We stayed there for I don't know how long before we change clothes.
Wala si Manang ngayon kasi may emergency daw sa bahay nila pero naghanda muna siya
ng hapunan. We ate while talking about how our day was.
Ang sabi niya dumaan siya kanina sa bahay nila Daddy. Sinabihan daw siya ni ate
Penelope na kausapin si Renz. Renz was the owner of the hotel ate would like her
birthday to be held. Next week na 'yon.
Kinabukasan ay walang pasok si Blakey. I was wearing his white shirt and my black
pants while laying on the sofa near the window, holding my phone. Nahihirapan
talaga ako magkabit ng butones so it was misbuttoned. Kumukuha ng meryenda si
Blakey.
The doorbell dinged. Someone's at the door. Nilingon ko ang daan sa kusina bago ang
pinto. Wala rin kasi ang mga maids dahil every Saturday ang day off nila. Should I
open it? Pa'no kung bad guys 'yon?
I hesitated but stood up. Tinignan ko ung maliit na TV malapit sa pinto. Blakey
said it's for security including those cameras inside and outside the house. Pero
wala no'n sa kwarto namin.
Tumunog ulit ung doorbell. The TV showed a beautiful lady with a black beautiful
hair. I don't know her so I shouted Blakey's name.
Ang tagal dumating ni Blakey kaya binuksan ko na. She looked nice so maybe she
wouldn't hurt me. Konti lang ang binuksan ko at sumilip lang ako.
"Hi, andyan ba si Osias?" Wow. She's tall. And she's pretty with her blue dress.
Tinignan ko lang siya kaya nawala ang matamis niyang ngiti. "Ah, may ibibigay lang
ako. My name's Jackie. I'm his partner at work."
I remembered her name. Nakita niya sigurong nakilala ko siya kaya siya napangiti.
"Are you talking to someone by the door, my wife?" Napalingon ako at tumakbo kay
Blakey. He hugged and lift me so he could kiss me on my lips. He really likes to
kiss.
Nang maputol ang halik namin ay tinuro ko si Jackie na binuksan pala nang malawak
ang pinto at nakatingin na sa'min.
"Jackie? What are you doing here?" He asked frowning.
"H-Hi." Binaba ako ni Blakey at hinawakan ang kamay ko.
I saw how her eyes darted at our intertwined hands. She looked sad and pained. Why?
"Jackie?" Natanggal ang tingin niya do'n at pilit na ngumiti.
"I-ah... You forgot this at the office yesterday." May iniabot siyang malaking
brown envelope.
"Thanks. Hindi ka na dapat nag-abala. By the way, this is my wife Leanna. Siya si
Jackie, cuddle cakes. Say hi."
Nagtago ako sa likod ni Blakey. Ayoko. Nahihiya ako eh.
"Sorry. She's really shy."
"I can see that." Tumingin siya sakin nang nakakunot ang noo. She's observing me. I
know what she's thinking. She thinks I'm weird. I don't like her.
"Can I talk to you for a minute?"
"About what?"
"It's important." Sabay tingin niya sa'kin. Blakey thought about it before looking
at me.
"Nasa kusina na ung sandwiches. Antayin mo 'ko do'n ah. Sandali lang 'to."
Tinignan ko muna si Jackie. She smiled at me. I frowned but followed what he said.
Halos maubos ko na ang mga sandwiches pero wala pa din si Blakey. Ang tagal nilang
mag-usap. Naiinip na 'ko.
I huffed and went back. Malayo palang ay naririnig ko na ang boses ni Jackie. She
sounded frustrated.
"Kaya pala pinili mong pumunta sa seminar dahil mukang napapainit niya na ang kama
mo."
"We have nothing to talk about. It was a mistake and I already married so stop
hoping."
"Hindi lang wala 'yon, Osias! Stop saying that!"
"I don't wanna hurt my wife. I love her so you better not say ridiculous things
about us!" He shouted.
Why would Blakey hurt me? Gusto ba ni Jackie na saktan ako ni Blakey? I don't like
her more...
I saw her almost crying before she slapped him. She had hurt Blakey and it made me
feel mad.
"Bad girl!" Both of them looked at me while pointing my finger accusingly at her.
I ran and grabbed her hair. Hinila hila ko ito at sumisigaw siya.
"Get off me! Osias!" I kep tugging her hair. Bad girl siya. She needs to be
punished.
"Lee, stop it!" Hinawakan ni Blakey ang kamay ko at hinihila niya ako sa bewang.
"Leanna!"
I stopped and frowned. He pulled me away from her while I almost cry. Sinigawan
niya 'ko. He's mad at me. Bakit sa'kin eh siya ung bad girl. I was only protecting
him.
"Umalis ka na, Jackie." I looked down and bit my trembling lips while he still had
his hands on me.
I heard the door closed. Umalis na siya.
Binitawan niya 'ko. Pumunta siya sa harap ko at sinapo ang aking mga pisngi.
Napatingala ako. I saw disappointment in his eyes.
"Why did you do that?"
"I'm sorry..." Nagsimula nang kong humikbi.
"I should be the one saying that." Malungkot ang boses niya. Niyakap niya 'ko ng
mahigpit. "I'm sorry, Lee. You don't deserve this but I'm too selfish. Sana 'wag
kang magalit sa'kin. I love you."
Chapter 20
UMIIYAK si Manang pagbalik niya galing sa bahay nila. Natagpuan namin siya sa
salas. Ihahatid ko sa labas siya Blakey kasi papasok na siya sa work.
"Manang Josie, bakit?" Nag-aalalang tanong ni Blakey. Napatingin siya sa'min. She's
really really sad. Her eyes were red and swollen from crying.
"Kasi ang anak ko naaksidente at kailangang operahan. Hindi alam ang gagawin dahil
wala kaming sapat na pera para do'n. Ayokong mawala siya, hijo..." Humihikbi niyang
sabi.
Hinawakan ni Blakey ang kamay niya at hinagod siya sa likod.
"Don't worry, Manang. Ako ho ang bahalang magbayad ng lahat. Malaki na rin po ang
naitulong niyo sa'min dito at tinuturing na po namin kayong pamilya."
"Salamat, hijo." Lalo pa siyang naiyak.
Of course she won't stop crying. Blakey's doing it all wrong. I know a right way to
stop anyone from crying.
"Stop crying!" Sigaw ko bago ko siya lapitan at hampas hampasin. "Stop! Stop
crying!"
"Ayyy! Diyos ko!" Sinasalag niya ang bawat hampas ko. Blakey moved between me and
her so I stopped hitting. Blakey's not crying so why would I hit him?
"Leanna, what's happening to you? Bakit nagiging bayolente ka na!?" Nag-igting ang
panga niya. Blakey looked and sounded upset. He was frowning at me with
disappointment.
"But she was c-crying." I pointed at Manang that looked at me, shocked.
See! She's not crying anymore. Mama Anita used to do the same to me. It's very
effective.
"Leanna..." Blakey blew an air before facing her. "Pasensya na po, Manang. Hindi ko
po alam kung bakit niya ginawa 'yon."
"Okay lang, hijo. Mabuting bata si Leanna siguro ay magulo lang ang isip niya."
He guided her to the sofa. Nag-uusap sila habang ako ay nagte-text. Tinitignan ko
din ung mga pictures na nakuha ko. Nang tumayo sila ay lumapit ako.
I felt bad on what I did. Imbes na maging masaya siya ay parang bumigat ang
damdamin ko. Kagaya nung ginawa ko dati kay Janine. It felt awful.
"I'm sorry, Manang..."
"Okay lang, hija basta 'wag mo nang gagawin 'yon ulit ah. Masama 'yon." I tilted my
head to the side.
Kung masama 'yon, bakit ginagawa ni ate at ni Mama sa'kin? Does this mean that
they're bad people?
Naiwan kami ni Blakey dahil pupunta daw siya ng bangko. He handed her a check
before she left. Ang sabi niya din ay babalik siya mamayang gabi para kunin ang mga
gamit niya at mawawala ng mga ilang araw.
"Let's talk about what you did, Lee..." Panimula niya. I looked down in shame.
"I'm sorry."
"I know you're sorry pero bakit mo naman naisip na kailangang gawin 'yon? The other
day gano'n ka din. Is someone that's always close to you gets violent sometimes?
Because you won't do that if you haven't seen it somewhere or someone doing it."
Malumanay ang boses niya. I bit my lower lip. My heart thumped fast. I kept quiet
because I was not sure if I'd tell him.
Ito na ang pagkakataon kong sabihin sa kanya lahat pero naisip ko din na baka
pagalitan siya ni Mama Anita. Pa'no kung paluin din siya? He might get hurt...
"Cuddle cakes?" He called and hold both my shoulders. "'Wag kang matakot, okay? May
nananakit ba sa'yo? Is it Mama Anita?"
I gasped. My eyes turning big. Oh no! Pa'no niya nalaman? Hindi pwede...
"N-No..."
"Are you sure?" I nodded. "May narinig kasi si Manang Josie no'n nung huling
bumisita si Mama. I know she won't do that but I had to make sure kaya nag-install
ako ng security system. Hindi rin kasi sigurado si Manang sa mga narinig. Now that
I think of it, lagi kang malungkot after niyang bumisita dito."
"S-She's nice. She's not hurting me..." Bulong ko at nag-iwas ng tingin. I know
lying is bad but...
I looked at him through my eyelashes and I saw him eyeing me like finding out if I
was telling the truth.
Bumitaw siya at bumuntong hininga. I guess naniwala siya.

"Sige I believe you but you have to promise that you won't ever do it again, okay?"
"I promise." Napangiti siya sa sagot ko.
I'm sorry Blakey but I just don't want you getting hurt.
Lumabas kami ng bahay at hinatid ko siya sa sasakyan.
"Mamaya na ang birthday party ni Penelope. Pag-uwi ko, kailangan na nating maghanda
agad." Tumango ako bago ko siya halikan sa pisngi.
After Blakey left for work, I headed straight inside to watch TV pero pagkapasok ko
palang ay may naramdaman ako sa aking tyan. I rushed to the kitchen and puked my
guts out.
Nakadungaw ako sa lababo at sinusuka lahat ng kinain ko kanina. My eyes started to

water and there's a weird feeling in my tummy.
Nang mailabas ko lahat at binuksan ko ang girpo at nagmumog. I haven't even

recovered from the first one when I immediately bent forward and puked again.
My throat burned and it started hurting.
"Hija, anong problema?" Narinig ko si Manang na agad akong nilapitan. Ang akala ko
ay umalis na siya.
Hinimas himas niya ang aking likod habang sumusuka ako. After that, I started
crying. Siya na ang nagpunas ng bibig ko. Umalis siya habang patuloy akong umiiyak.
"Magmumog ka, Leanna. Diyos ko, ano bang nangyari?" Nagmumog ako tapos uminom ng
maraming tubig.
I continued sobbing because it still hurts and it was the first time that I felt
that kind of weird feeling.
"Manang..." Hikbi ko. "A-Am I g-going to die?"
"Nako, hija hindi. Baka may nakain ka lang na masama. Halika't magpahinga ka muna
sa salas." Inalalayan niya 'ko at pinaupo sa sofa.
"May gusto ka ba?" Umiling ako at sumandal sa gilid ng sofa.
"I feel dizzy..."
"Nahihilo ka at nagsusuka? Hindi kaya..." Manang had this quizzical look on her
face.
"Tammy!" She called and then Tammy came after some time.
"Ano po 'yon, Manang?"
"Pumunta ka nga sa drugstore. Ikaw na ang bumili at babantayan ko itong si Leanna."
"Sige po."
Kinuha ko ang throw pillow at sinubsob ko ang mukha do'n. Hinayaan ko silang mag-
usap hanggang sa hindi ko namalayan na nakatulog na pala ako.
Nagising ako nang marinig ko si Manang. "Hija, tara. Titignan natin kung tama nga
ang hinala ko. Kung tama ako, tiyak na matutuwa nito ang asawa mo."
"I thought you left..." Diba pupuntahan niya ung anak niya. Then why is she still
here?
"Nakausap ko na ang asawa ko at sinabing bukas ako luluwas dahil aalagaan kita.
Bukas din naman ang schedule ng opera."
Kunot noo ko siyang tinignan. Tammy was there standing next to Manang who's sitting
near my feet. Tumayo ako at dinala nila ako sa banyo.
"Ituro mo nga sa kanya kung paano yan kay hindi rin ako maalam sa mga ganyan."
"Sige po." May kinuha siya sa plastic na dala niya. "Ito po, Miss Leanna. Lagyan
niyo po ng ihi niyo itong mga plastic cups tapos ilalagay natin 'to." Ipinakita
niya sa'kin ang isang kahon na puro puting stick. Para siyang ballpen. Ano kaya
'yon?
Lumabas sila at ginawa ko ang sinabi ni Tammy. They were both smiling and excited
as they left.
Yuck! I haven't done this before and it's so uncomfortable.
I placed the five cups in the sink counter before washing my hands.
"Hindi ba't ang dami naman 'ata niyan Tammy." Puna ni Manang nang makita niya ang
mga ito.
"Para sigurado po."
Tammy placed one ballpen-look-alike in each one of the cups. She told us to wait
for five minutes just to be sure again. She always wants to make things sure.
Nanood muna ako ng TV habang naghihintay. Iniwan ko sila do'n kasi gusto kong
manood ng koreanovela. I was smiling and clapping 'cause Jim and Cleo kissed and
they're both happy. They both confessed that they loved each other that made me
remember the day when Blakey told me the same.
My heart beats faster. He loves me and I love him. Now we're going to be happy-
tomorrow and forever. At last! Yung prayers ko natupad na din.
Narinig ko ang mga nagmamadaling paa ng dalawa. Tinabihan agad ako ni Manang at
hinawakan ang aking mga kamay.
"Hija, tama ang hinala ko. Magpasalamat tayo sa Diyos dahil magkaka baby ka na!"
"B-Baby?" I asked and looked at Tammy. She was smiling widely too like Manang.
"Opo, Miss Leanna. Positive po lahat ng nasa pregnancy test. May baby na po sa
tiyan niyo."
I touched my tummy, unconsciously. Nang pumasok ng tuluyan sa isip ko ang sinabi

nila ay lumakas ang tibok ng puso ko. I didn't know why I want to cry but I was
excited and happy.
"I have a baby." Hindi ko makapaniwalang sabi bago magsituluan ang aking mga luha.
"'Wag kang umiyak, Leanna kay masama 'yan sa bata." Bigla kong pinunasan ang aking
pisngi at ngumiti.
We're finally gonna have a baby. Gusto ko nang sabihin 'yon kay Blakey para maging
masaya na rin siya.
Nang dumating si Blakey ay naging excited ako kasi hindi ko alam kung pa'no
sasabihin sa kanya. I plan to say it before we go to sleep para 'pag gising namin
ay masaya kami pareho.
"Mag-ayos ka na, cuddle cakes. We only have thirty minutes before the party."
Kinuha ko ang mga damit ko sa kama.
It was a white blouse with red skirt that Blakey bought for me. It has matching
white gliterry shoes with a little bit of heels.
"Are you fine?" Nag-aalalang tanong niya at sinapo ang mukha ko. Pilit akong
ngumiti sa kanya. Kanina pa kasi ako nahihilo.
"Everything spins..." Ang sabi ko magbabanyo muna ako. Ayokong pumunta sa party.
Baka kasi sumuka ako do'n.
Naisip ko rin na bakit ko pa papaabutin ng mamaya bago ko sabihin na buntis ako.

Sasabihin ko na nga sa kanya ngayon.
Ano kayang magiging reaksyon niya? Of course he'll be happy.
Huminga ako ng malalim at inipon ang lahat ng lakas ng loob ko bago lumabas.
Pagkalabas ko mula sa banyo ay nakita ko si Blakey na hawak ang phone ko. His jaw
clenched and his gripping my phone tight.
Madilim ang itsura niya nang humarap sa'kin. "Why are you texting Terrence? Even
the calls. Parang mas marami pa nga ang call logs niya kaysa sa'kin and it says
here that you've been talking to him every day. What is this, Leanna?"
I shudder on how deep his voice was.
"I-That's..." I stuttered. Hindi ako makapagsalita ng diretso dahil sa kaba.

Napayuko ako.
Should I tell him?
"Baby doll? He's calling you baby doll!? What the fvck is this?" Napaatras ako nang
ibato niya sa kama ang cellphone ko. I bounced before falling on the floor.
I'm scared of him. I really made him mad this time.
"Hindi ka ba magsasalita!?" Parang nanigas ang dila ko dahil hindi ako

makapagsalita. Wala rin akong maisip na sabihin dahil hindi ako makapag-isip dahil
sa kaba. I don't like this feeling.
His eyes were dark and scary.
"Are you..." He made a sound that's close to growling before raking his hand
through his hair and hissed. I, on the other hand was trembling and was about to
cry.
"Ang mabuti pa dito ka muna. You're not feeling well. Ako nang bahalang magsabi sa
kanila kung bakit. I'll ask Manang to look after you." He said before storming out
of the room.
Malakas na sumara ang pinto na nagpaatras sa'kin.
I was almost crying when I remember that I shouldn't be because of our baby.
Ang ginawa ko nalang ay humiga sa kama at pinigilang umiyak. I gripped the bed
sheet and buried my face on the pillows.
I should've told him the truth. What Terrence and I were playing. Hindi sana siya
nagalit.
I was so scared I just stood there and did nothing. I'm stupid.
Bumukas ang pinto. Ngumiti ako at bumangon dahil naisip ko na baka si Blakey 'yon.
Na baka bumalik siya para sa'kin dahil hindi na siya galit pero nagkamali ako.
"Hija, okay ka na ba? Ang sabi ni Osias ay nahihilo ka daw kaya hindi ka nakasama.
'Wag kang mag-alala, hija at aalagaan ko kayo ng baby mo. Gusto mo bang kumain?"
Umiling ako at pilit na ngumiti bago bumalik sa pagkakahiga.
"Hindi mo pa ba nasasabi kay Osias na buntis ka?"
"I was about to tell him..." Hindi ko na tinuloy dahil ayokong ikwento.
Nagpapasalamat ako at andyan si Manang para samahan ako. She's so nice kahit na
sinaktan ko siya kanina.
I don't want to eat pero pinilit niya 'ko. I'm so depressed knowing that Blakey's
mad at me. Ayokong tawagan siya dahil baka galit padin 'yon.
Hindi ko namalayan na nakatulog ako habang hindi nakapagpalit. Nagising ako nang
may marinig akong kalabog mula sa labas. It was thundering and raining hard outside
but I still heard the crash.
Bad guys!
Napabalikwas ako ng bangon. Kinakabahan. Nang may marinig ulit ako ay agad akong
tumakbo papasok sa closet namin. I went to the deepest corner and sat there.
The locks!
Halos maiyak na 'ko nang takbuhin ko ang pintuan. Bawat sandali ay bumibilis ang
tibok ng puso ko. I reached my hand for the knob pero bago ko pa mahawakan 'yon ay
bigla na itong bumukas.
Pumasok si Mama Anita. Nakasuot siya ng black sleeveless dress na hanggang taas ng
tuhod. She was also wearing black long gloves and shawl. She was also standing high
with the heels of her black shoes. Kumikinang nang mga alahas niya sa leeg at tenga
na kitang kita dahil sa nakapusod niyang buhok.
She looked like an angel but her smile was sinister. Imbes na makampante ako ay mas
lalo akong kinabahan.
"M-Mama Anita..."
"Nag-alala ako dahil wala ka party kaya pumunta agad ako dito. How are you, hija."
Napalunok ako. She stepped forward and I stepped back. I felt something different.
Scary different. It made me grip my skirt tight.
Nilingon ko ang pinto. Maybe I could run and escape if I push her.
"Are you planning to run? Bakit naman, Leanna. I'm not a bad guy." She sweetly
smiled at walked away from the door.
Ngayon pwede na 'kong tumakbo.
Humakbang ako at tumakbo pero napahinto ako dahil may dalawang lalaking pumasok.
They both look scary especially the one with a scar on his cheeks. Yung isa medyo
matanda na. They were wearing black hoodies and beanies.
I gasped and shivered. I remembered them! They were the same bad guys that I saw in
daddy's house. Nakita ko silang may kinuhang paintings do'n. They also saw me but
they told me not to tell or they're gonna kill daddy.
Hindi pala siya umalis para palabasin ako kung hindi para bigyan sila ng daan.
"Ngayong legal na anak na ni Leticio si Penelope, hindi ko na kailangang magtimpi

at maging mabait sa'yo. Take care of her. Siguraduhin niyong malinis."
"Areglado, ma'am."
"Mama, p-please. I'll be a good g-girl... I'll do a-anything you say..." I pleaded
hard. Pinagkiskis ko pa ang mga palad sa isa't isa. I was already crying when she
went to the door.
The bad guys snickered and laughed. Pinapalabo ng mga ang luha ko ang aking
paningin.
"I know you will... kaya nga mas kinasusuklamam kita. And one more thing, I'm not
your mother."
Blangko ang mata niya habang nakatingin sa'kin ng diretso. There were no emotions
at all. Umalis siya na parang nang-iwan lang ng basura sa kung saan.
She's worst than a bad guy, I figured. She's evil.
"Pasensya na, miss. Napag-utusan lang."
"Please, I w-wont tell d-daddy or Blakey. Please. I'll be good."
Nagmamakaawa muli ako pero tumatawa lang sila. Iyak ako ng iyak. Hindi ko napigilan
dahil sa sobrang takot at kaba.
I ran towards the door. Napasigaw ako nang hawakan ako sa bewang nung may peklat.
"Help! Help me! Blakey, help me!" I kept shouting for help while I was being
dragged out of my room.
"Miss, wala ang mga katulong dito. Pinaalis lahat ni ma'am kaya wala ring silbi
kahit sumigaw ka ng sumigaw." Pailing iling na sabi ng isa. "Hindi ko inakalang
lalaking maganda ang batang tinakot natin ngayon..." Ayoko ng ngiti niya. Even the
way that he licked his lip. Inilayo ko ang aking mukha nang nagtangka siyang
hawakan ako. I whimpered.
"Sino kayo? Anong ginagawa niyo rito?" Sabay sabay kaming napatingin kay Manang.
"Manang, help me."
"Nalintikan na. Patahimikin mo." Sabi nung may hawak sa'kin.
"Hija? Ibaba niyo siya mga walang hiya! Tammy! Tumawag ka ng pulis dali!!!" Sumugod
si Manang gamit ang payong na hawak niya.
Sinalag ito nung isa at madali lang para sa kanyang itulak si Manang.
"No! Manang!" Sigaw ko nang bumagsak siya sa sahig ng corridor.
"Tara na." I was being dragged again. Nakita ko si Manang na nahihirapang tumayo.
"Tang-inä! May isa pa." Malapit na kami sa hagdan nang makita kami ni Tammy na
paakyat.
Sumigaw ito at tumakbo palayo. The older bad guy chased her. Hawak parin nung isa
ang bewang ko habang ang isa ay nasa leeg ko. I saw an opportunity and bit his arm.
Bumagsak ako sa sahig nang makawala ako. I whimpered and pushed myself to stand up.
"Ahhh! Gägo ka! Ansakit."
"Hija, tumakbo ka na." Nilingon ko si Manang na nag uumpisa na namang hampasin ung
lalaki.
My heart was beating fast. I ran to the stairs but he caught me while taking the
hits from Manang Josie.
Napainda siya ng sakit nang matamaan siya sa ulo. He lost his balance.
Parang biglang bumagal ang lahat nang mahulog siya sa hagdan kasama ako. Nabagok
ang ulo ko habang gumugulong ako pababa.
The last thing I saw was Manang rushing to my side.
Dahil birthday ko... Ayan na ang gift. Lipat naman tayo sa The Wild Cat.
Sinong excited sa POV ni Osias?
Please vote and comment....

Chapter 21
POV NI OSIAS FROM CHAPTERS 16-20
"INABOT NA ba sa'yo ni Atty. Lopez ung file ni Mr. Lim?"
"O-Oo. Nakagawa na 'ko ng bagong contract para sa extension." Sagot ko kay Jackie.
Ngumiti siya at binalik ang tingin sa laptop.
Base sa ikinikilos niya, wala siyang maalala sa ginawa niya nung Friday night. Kung
sabagay, lasing na lasing siya no'n. Marahil nga ay hindi niya na matandaan.
Umiling na lamang ako at ibinalik ang pag-babasa ng mga kontrata. Dapat ay hindi ko
narin isipin 'yon. Wala rin naman sa'kin ang halik na 'yon pero inisip ko na baka
mailang kami sa isa't isa at hindi pwede 'yon sa trabaho. We're partners here and
we can't place personal issues in work.
Hinatid ko siya sa hotel kasi hindi ko naman alam ang bahay niya. I left
immediately after I made sure that she's settled.
Pagka-uwi ko, tulog na si Lee. Na-guilty pa 'ko at naawa sa kanya dahil sa

naghintay pa siya sa'kin.
"Do you have the deal for Sapphire Project? Kailangan ko ngayon un para sa
approval."
Kumunot ang noo ko sa kanya. "Ngayon? Hindi ba bukas pa ang deadline no'n?"
"Bukas nga pero hindi pa kasi dumadaan ung sa final review kaya ibibigay ko sa
marketing department. Then we need to do some revisions before the signing
tomorrow."
My frown deepens. "Naiwan ko sa bahay pero kukunin ko. Tiyak makakabalik ako before
lunch."
"Please do. Kailangan ko kasi..."
I nodded and stood up. "Kukunin ko na."
"O sige, mag-ingat ka sa daan." Napahinto ako sa sinabi niya. Ewan ko. Weird lang
kasi. That sounded that she cared but too much.
"Thanks."
It's quarter to ten palang at tiyak na makakabalik ako bago magtanghalian. Hininto
ko ang sasakyan dahil red light. Medyo traffic sa daan.
Sa bahay na lang kaya ako magtanghalian? Kaso marami pa kong naiwan na trabaho. But
it would be nice to have lunch with my wife.
Napangiti ako at agad kong naramdaman ang kasabikan nang maisip ko si Lee.
Siguradong matutuwa 'yon. Hindi ako nakapagpaalam kanina sa kanya dahil nagmamadali
ako kaya dapat sabay kaming mag-lunch.
Hindi na 'ko nagpabukas ng garahe at do'n ko nalang sa tapat ng gate nagpark.

Paglabas ko ay pinatunog ko ang sasakyan at pumasok.
Pasigaw na sana ako para sabihing nakabalik na 'ko. I was expecting that Lee would
come running my way then I'd hug her and we'd share a kiss liked we used to do but
my smile vanished when I saw an unfamiliar face. He came walking from my where the
living room was.
Sino 'to? Mahigpit na bilin ko kayla Manang na 'wag magpapapasok ng bisita.
Naka T-shirt na black, jeans at rubber shoes siya. Katamtaman ang pangangatawan at
naka baseball cap. Napahinto siya nang makita ako.
"Who are you? Sinong nagpapasok sa'yo?" Malamig ang binigay kong tingin sa kanya.
"Ah-ako si David. Isa ako sa mga staff ni Ms. Penelope. Cameraman. I'm with her.
Makikigamit lang sana ako ng CR."
"Where is she?" I frowned. Akala ko ba maliwanag na samin na dapat alam ko kapag

magdadala siya ng kaibigan sa pagbisita.
"Ando'n siya sa taas. Pupuntahan daw ung kapatid niya." He said while pointing his
right thumb on his back where the the stairs was.
Biglang lumabas si Manang Josie kasama Liz, isa pa naming kasambahay. galing sa
living room. Dala ng huli ang isang tray ng mga basong hula ko ay pinag gamitan ng
mga bisita.
"Andyan ka pa po pala, Sir David. Hindi mo ba-Osias, hijo? Ang aga mo 'ata."
"I went back to get some papers I left."
"Kamusta po sir Osias. Gusto niyo po bang kuhanan ko kayo ng maiinom."
"Hindi 'wag na Liz. Salamat nalang." Sagot ko pero sa mga baso ako nakatingin.
Tatlo 'yon ibig sabihin tatlo silang dumating.
"I'll go ahead, Manang."
Iniwan ko sila at pinuntahan ang kwarto namin. Sino kaya ang isa pa. Baka si
Terrence.
Medyo nagmadali ako paakyat. Naalala ko ung huling punta ni Penelope at ng

boyfriend niya. Matapos no'n ay nadepress si Lee. Hindi maganda ang kutob ko.
Pinihit ko ang seradura at pumasok. Nakita ko ang isang lalaking papalabas at may
hawak na baso. Malamang siya si Terrence pero nasa'n si Penelope? Hindi ko sigurado
pero kung sino man siya ay hindi na agad maganda ang first impression dito.
"What are you doing here?" Hindi ko napigilang sumigaw lalo na't nakita kong hindi
niya alam kung pa'no sasagutin ang tanong ko.
Napalunok siya at umatras. I know my physique intimidates him. My eyes search for
Leanna or Penelope. I walked pass him just to find my wife on bed. Is she sleeping?
Kung gano'n bakit andito ang lalaking 'to dito?
"Get the fvck out of here!" No one should be on our room except for me and my wife.
"Cuddle cakes?" Hinaplos ko ang braso niya at pinaharap sa'kin. Gano'n nalang ang
gulat at pagtataka ko nang makita ang itsura niya.
She was panting and sweating. Hinawi ko ang mga dumikit na buhok sa kanyang
magkabilang pisngi dahil sa pawis. Halos hindi na siya makagalaw o makasagot sa
tanong ko.
"B-Bla-" She winced like she was in such pain.
Halos sumabog ang pag-aalala ko kasama ng kaba. Anong nangyari sa kanya? Anong
ginawa ng lalaking 'yon sa kanya. Nag-igting ang panga ko sa isipang nagkaganito
siya dahil sa lalaking 'yon.
She winced again. Nagdilim ang paningin ko ay tumayo para kwelyuhan ang taong may
dahilan niyo sa kanya. He dropped what he's holding. I'm going to fvcking kill him
if he has done something to my precious wife.
"Why is she like that? What the fvck did you do!?" I said with threatening voice.
"I d-didn't do anything, man I s-swear. Nag-uusap lang kami tapos bigla siyang
nahirapan magsalita at napagod. I w-went here to give her w-water. That's the t-
truth."
"Sinungaling! Can't you see her? Mapapagod ba siya na parang tumakbo sa marathon
kung nagsasalita lang siya!?"
"As-ked h-her!" Nahirapan siyangmagsalita pero hinigpitan ko lamang ang kapit sa

kanya.
Nagsisinungaling ang lalaking 'to. Alam ko!
Mas lalong kumulo ang dugo ko nang makahulugan siyang tumingin kay Lee.
"Don't look at her!" I slammed his back against the wall and placed my arm,
pressing on his throat.
Kahit ayaw ko ay lumalabas ang mga natutunan ko sa pagiging sundalo. Hindi ko

mapigilan. As long as Leanna is involve, I can't stop myself especially when she's
on that state.
Inaalagaan ko siya ng husto tapos dadatnan ko siya ng gano'n dahil sa lalaking

'to!? Fvck him to hell!
Nakita ko sa gilid ng aking mata ang pagbukas ng pinto. Kahit may pumasok ay hindi
ko parin siya binitawan.
"Osias, stop it. Let him go!" Awat sa'kin ni Penelope habang hinihila ang braso ko.
"Osias! David help me." One man went to the other side and tried to pull me away.
Para lamang siyang batang humihila sa'kin. Hindi ko siya hinarap but I bet that
he's the cameraman.
Sa kabila ng pagsigaw ni Penelope at pag-awat sa'kin ni David ay narinig ko parin

ang pag-inda ng sakit ni Leanna.
She was whimpering and was slumped on the floor. Agad ko siyang nilapitan.
"Okay ka lang ba, Lee?" Binuhat ko siya at pinaupo sa kama.
I was checking kung meron bang masakit sa kanya but then I saw her looking at them
with worry. I heard some couching at nakaramdam ako ng pagkaasar.
I cupped her face with both hands and made her look at me.
"Are you okay? May masakit ba sa'yo?" Tinuro niya ang kanyang leeg na agad kong
hinaplos.
Bakit sa leeg? Pero wala namang bakas na sinaktan siya.
"I can't believe you did this, Osias." I frowned as I heard Penelope's accusation.
Tumayo ako at hinarap siya. "And I can't believe you bring people into my house
without my permission. Alam mong maiilang si Leanna sa kanila. Sinabihan na kita
noon hindi ba? Tapos ito...hindi lang isa, dalawa pa silang nandito!"
Noong mga bata pa kami ay lagi nang ginagawa ni Penelope ang bawat gustuhin niya.
Pero iba ngayon. I won't tolerate this.
Nag sorry siya sa hindi paghingi ng permiso pero sinabing dapat nagtanong muna 'ko
at hindi basta dapat ginawa 'yon. A part of me was guilty and admitted that I was
wrong. That I acted on impulse and the protectiveness over Lee took over but she's
my wife. It's understandable.
Walang laman ang isip ko kung hindi ang nasaktan si Leanna at dapat ko siyang
protektahan kahit kanino pa.
Dahil sa kaguluhan ay dumating si Manang. Nagtanong siya kung anong nangyari dahil
sa pag-aalala.
"Umalis na kayong lahat."
Tinawag ako ni Penelope na parang nakiki-usap. Alam kong gusto niya kong makausap
pero ayaw ko. Galit pa 'ko at mas magandang pahupain ko muna ito at asikasuhin si
Lee.
Pinakiusapan ko si Manang na ihatid sila sa labas. Inaalalayan ni David si Terrence

habang papunta sa pintuan. Ako naman ay matalim ang tingin sa kanila hanggang sa
makalabas.
Umiling nalang si Penelope bago lumabas kasunod si Manang. Nang makaalis sila ay
nilapitan ko si Lee. I asked her again if she's really fine but she just tiredly
smiled.
Nagpahinga muna kami hanggang sa tawagin kami ni Manang para sa tanghalian. Habang
kumakain ay tinanong ko si Lee sa mga nangyari. Kung anong ginawa ni Terrence sa
kanya o bakit siya napagod ng gano'n pero hindi siya sumasagot. Maganda naman ang
mood niya habang kumakain pero nababagabag pa din ako.
Gusto kong malaman ang totoo at kasuhan ang dapat managot.
"Manang, lagi bang nagpapapunta dito ng mga kaibigan si Penelope."
Tinanong ko si Manang tungkol sa kanila. Madalas palang nagpupunta ang mga 'yon
noong nagseserbisyo pa 'ko at mukha naman daw mabait si Terrence.
Maybe I was just really over reacting. Inakusahan ko agad siya nang di man lang
nagtatanong. Nadamay pa si Penelope. I really should apologize.
Pero palaisipan pa din sa'kin kung bakit gano'n nalang ang pagod ni Lee kanina.
Halos kamay niya hindi niya magalaw kanina. Kasi kung nagsalita lang siya ay hindi
maapektuhan ang buong katawan nito.
I sighed and excused myself from the table.
'I'll be back after lunch.'
Tinext ko muna si Jackie na after lunch nalang ako babalik bago kontakin si
Penelope. Habang tinatawagan siya ay sinilip ko mula sa malayo si Lee. She looks
fine and happy while devouring a piece of cake.
I can't help but smile. She's too cute and innocent for her own good. I swear. I'll
do anything to keep her safe.
"You call to apologize, right?" Biglang sabi sa kabilang linya.
"Yes." I said. "Nabigla lang ako. I'm sorry if I shouted at you. I would also like
to apologize for my actions on Terrence."
"That's okay, Osias. Alam mo namang 'di kita matitiis, eh." She giggled that made
me smile. "Kilala kita, Osias. We've been friends for long. Don't worry, ako na ang
bahalang magsabi kay Terrence."
Gumaan ang pakiramdam ko nang maging okay na kami ni Penelope. Mabait talaga siya
at maunawain. Saming dalawa siya ang laging umiintindi. Maswerte ako at naging
kaibigan ko siya.
Nanonood si Lee ng TV noong umakyat ako para kunin ung mga papeles. Dala ko rin ung
blue na teddy bear at nilagay sa kwarto. Nanonood parin ng TV si Leanna hanggang sa
makaalis ako.
Maagang dumalaw si Mama Anita kinabukasan. Alam niya ang nangyari. Malamang sinabi
sa kanya ni Penelope. I could see that she's worried about our friendship but I
assured her that everything's fine.
She wanted also to see Leanna but she's still sleeping. Babalik nalang daw siya.
Nang mga sumunod na araw ay naging mabigat ang trabaho. Board and client meeting
occupies my entire schedule. Even after dinner.
Every night I kept thinking that I should be at home eating dinner with my wife
then we would cuddle after before going to sleep. Instead, andito ako ngayon kasama
ng Vice President at nakikipag-usap ng mga ilalagay sa kontrata.
Pagod ang antok na ko nang makauwi sa bahay. I'm sure Leanna's asleep. I sighed and
pulled my tie loose.
"Hijo..." Paakyat na 'ko nang tawagin ako ni Manang.
"Manang, bakit gising pa kayo?" Napakunot ang noo ko dahil sa pag-aalala sa mukha
niya. There's also a hint of hesitation in her.
"May gusto po ba kayong sabihin?"
"Ah kasi..." Pumikit muna siya at bumuntong hininga bagao magsalita. "May narinig
kasi ako pero hindi ko sigurado, hijo. Baka kasi mali lang ako ng pagkakaintindi."
"What is it, Manang?" Lumapit ako sa kanya.
"Tanda mo na noong huling bumisita si Ma'am Anita dito?"
"Oho. Dinalaw niya si Lee. It's a day after Penelope's visit."
Umiling siya. "Hindi 'yon, Osias. Bumisita ulit siya kinabukasan."
"Okay lang po 'yon. As long as wala siyang kasamang iba. I don't want Lee to get
uncomfortable."
"Hindi 'yon ang gusto kong sabihin. Kasi noong dumating siya inutusan niya 'kong
pumunta sa bakeshop para bumili ng cake. Para daw 'yon kay Leanna kaya bumili kami.
Pinapasama pa sa'kin si Tammy at pinahatid kami kay Isko. Nalimutan ko ung pera sa
kwarto nang magpalit ako ng damit kaya bumalik kami tapos tatanungin ko na rin sana
kung anong gusto ni Leanna ang kaso may narinig ako..."
Hinihintay ko siyang magpatuloy pero ang pag-aalinlangan niya kanina ay bumalik.

Napaiwas siya ng tingin at tinitimbang kung magpapatuloy ba.
"Ang alin, Manang? You can tell me." I gave her a reassuring smile.
"Narinig ko si Ma'am Anita na sumisigaw mula sa kwarto niyo. Para siyang galit.
Alam kong kasama niya si Leanna do'n sa silid niyo. Inisip ko na baka pinapagalitan
lang siya. Gusto ko sanang tignan kaso bigla akong tinawag ni Tammy."
"She's shouting at Lee?"
"Hindi ako sigurado, hijo pero parang gano'n nga ang nangyayari. Pag balik ko wala
na si Ma'am. Mukang wala namang napansin ang ibang mga kasambahay dito. Nawala na
'yon sa isip ko hanggang nung isang araw, tinulungan ko sa pagpapalit ng damit ang
asawa mo. Nakita ko sa likod niya na may parang mga pasa pero halos pahilom na.
Medyo din sa tagiliran."
"Pasa? Are you sure, Manang?"
"Oo, hijo. Tinanong ko siya kaso ayaw namang magsalita. Ayokong mag-isip ng masama,
hijo pero ang kutob ko ay sinaktan siya ni Ma'am."
Sinasaktan? Pero imposible 'yon.
"Sige ho, Manang. Matulog na po kayo. Ako nang bahala... Salamat nga po pala sa
pagsasabi."
"Walang anuman, hijo. Talagang nag-aalala lang ako para kay Leanna."
Tumango ako bago siya tumalikod at umalis. The walk to our room got me thinking of
what she said.
Mama Anita was mad and shouting at Lee. But why?
Did Leanna do something? That's also impossible. My wife couldn't even harm a fly.
Pero anong dahilan ng lahat?
Pinagmasdan ko habang mahimbing na natutulog si Lee. Her back was facing me. Ang
sabi ni Manang ay may mga pasa siya sa likuran. I lifted the hem of her pajama top
and inspected her back. There's nothing. It's clean. Actually, her back's flawless.
Matapos kong magpalit ay tumabi na agad ako sa kanya. She faced me and hugged my
torso. Napangiti ako nang makitang tulog pa siya. I really missed us cuddling right
before going to sleep.
"Goodnight, cuddle cakes..." I kissed her on the lips before hugging her.
I'm not sure if Mama really did that. Wala rin namang dahilan si Manang para gumawa
ng kwento at saka bakit hindi ko napansin ang mga pasa niya kung meron?
Masyado naba akong naging busy sa trabaho? Or maybe Lee was hiding it?
Thinking about it, depression attacked Lee after she visited. Ang akala ko dahil
'yon kay Terrence na hindi niya kilala pero it turns out, magkakilala na sila dahil
matagal na pala siyang bumibisita dito kasama si Penelope.
Ang gulo. Kung magsasallita lang sana si Lee at sabihin ang totoo...
Bumuntong hininga ako at pinilit matulog. Naguguluhan ako at pagod galing sa
trabaho. I'll think all about it next time but one thing's for sure, something's
not right and I'm going to find it out for the sake of my wife.
Author's Note
Hay!!!
Nagbabasa ba kayo ng author's note minsan? O kaya ung mga warnings na nakalagay
before ng mga chapters?
Yun bang parang ganito...
Full of twist. Full of questions. Common sense is the key.
Alam ko medyo nakakalito kasi nga ung pagkakagawa ko ng POV umuurong.
Kung hindi niyo maintindihan edi wag niyong basahin...
May mga ibang readers naman na nakuha agad. Ang galing niyo guys, gumamit kayo ng
common sense. Yung iba hindi ko na alam.
Gosh! Nawawalan na ko ng gana...
Hindi ito kagaya ng mga puzzles na may sagot sa likod ng pahina. Yung kung hindi na
kaya nh utak mo, tatalon nalang tayo sa sagot.
Sige. Ito nalang. Tuturuan ko kayo na parang mga bata.
Sumakay tayo ng POV train at pumunta sa chapters 1-10. Nakita natin si Osias do'n.
Yung lugar niya puro mga bagay tungkol sa militar at mga papeles.
Boring!
Naisipan na nating umalis at pumunta ng chapters 11-20. Ando'n si Leanna. Sugar,

spice and everything nice ang makikita do'n. Kaso, napansin natin na kung ano ung
nasa chapter's 1-10 ni Osias ay kagaya lang ng kay Leanna.
Meaning. Ung chapters 11-15 ay POV niya noong chapters 1-10 tapos bagong kaganapan
ung nasa chapters 16-20.
All aboard on the POV train to where chapters 21-25 reside, we found another Osias.
Ang makikita natin dito ay ung mga kaganapan sa chapters 16-20. Ung mga nangyari
bago mahulog si Leanna sa hagdan. Sa POV nga pang ni Osias.
Nakuha niyo naba ung logic?
Kung nakuha niyo, nakikinita niyo na sa chapters 31-40 ay POV na ni Leanna. Ang 31-
35 ay kung anong nangyari simula chapter 25 (after niyang mahulog) hanggang chapter
30.
Kung hindi niyo pa makuha bahala na kayo sa buhay niyo. Kayo naman talagang bahala
dahil wala akong kontrol diyan.
Anyways, hindi lang naman itong librong 'to ang nabasa niyo. I bet you have
hundreds of stories in your library already. At pupusta ako na hindi lahat ay pare
pareho ng pagkakasulat.
At pupusta rin ako na hindi lahat ng twist ay hindi ginawa kasama ng sagot sa
parehong chapter.
I'm out. Drops the phone and leaves, gracefully.

Chapter 22
"HI THERE!" Napatingin ako sa pinto nang marinig si Jackie.
Woah! "He...llo..?"
Hindi ko maalis ang tingin ko sa kanya. It's not because she dressed differently
today-white spaghetti strapped top, killer heels and black skirt that's really
fitted. Usually naka blouse siya at naka-blazer tapos knee length skirt pero parang
iba ang dating niya ngayon. What's different about her is that she's somewhat too
cheerful and happy.
"Good morning!" She chirped. She's obviously in a good mood.
"Morning too..."
She walked to her desk. Wow! I know that she has a nice body but I never know that
she's this sexy. Umupo siya at inayos ang gamit bago isampay sa likod ng upuan ang
kanyang blazer. She twisted her waist a little to fix it. Her movements made her
body more emphasized. Napaisip ako. Masyadong maswerte and lalaking pakakasalan
niya. Napaiwas ako ng tingin at napatango sa sariling ideya.
Iniisip ko kung boyfriend niya ung Ricky. Malamang. Parang hindi kapani paniwala
kung wala siyang boyfriend. I mean, it's really obvious that she's a good catch.
Brains and body? Who wouldn't like her?
"What's on your mind?" I was startled with the sound of her voice, pulling me out
of my thoughts. Nakangiti siya habang nakatingin at naghihintay ng isasagot ko.
"Work."
Tinawanan niya ang palusot ko. "Doesn't seem like one. It looks like you saw
something you like." Umangat ang isang sulok ng mga labi niya sa isang pilyang
ngiti.
"L-Like what?" Shit!
"I don't know..." She shrugged. "But work could never give anyone a look like
that."
Napailing ako. "Mukang nasa mood ka ngayon. May nangyari ba?"
Ngumiti lamang siya bago buksan ang isang folder at basahin. "I just put my mind on
a goal."
Mahina lang 'yon pero narinig ko. I decided not to put any more comments and put
all my attention to work. Buti nalang hindi niya 'ko nahuli.
Buong araw ay puro papeles ang kaharap ko. Kailagan kong pababain ang bigat ng
trabaho para maasikaso ko na si Lee.
I planned to take Lee out for dinner. Sa'n kaya ang lugar na magugustuhan niya? It
should have less people or not too crowded. Sa hotel kaya ni Renz. I'll reserve a
private room for dinner. Just the two of us.
"You ready for tonight?" My head snapped up from the computer monitor.
What the hell?
Frowning, I diverted my gaze back to the E-files.
"Anong problema mo?" Dagdag niya pa.
Ano bang nangyayari sa kanya? Nakasando lang siya habang nakatukod ang mga palad sa
lamesa ko. Bakit di siya mag-blazer? She has this beaming smile but her chest was
also in my full view.
And she's asking what's my problem...
"Anong meron mamaya?" I said not looking at her.
"Hindi mo matandaan?" She whined. That tone made me thought of her pouting.
I sighed.
Jackie's really acting weird lately. Lagi niya kong binabaunan ng lunch. She's
always saying jokes that I would laugh at pero para siyang laging nakadikit.
The people noticed our closeness too. Okay lang naman na maging close kaso
nakakailang na. Naalala ko noong may magtanong sa'min kung may relasyon daw kami.
Nakita pala nila noong hinalikan ako ni Jackie nung nakaraan. I almost cussed at
that person. Napigilan ko lang ang sarili ko at sinabing ako ay may asawa na.
Hindi ko sinabi na ang anak ng may-ari ng kompanya ang asawa ko. Hindi rin naman
ako madaldal 'pag buhay ko o ng ibang tao ang napag-uusapan.
Kita ko ang napahiyang mukha ni Atty. Suarez no'n. Ang hindi ko mawari ay kung
bakit pati si Jackie ay namula sa kahihiyan at hindi pagkagulat.
Then an idea hit me. She remembered the kiss.
"Can you forget about it?" Napatingin lang ako ng tuluyan sa kanya nang maramdaman
ko siyang umayos ng upo. Thank God!
Bakas sa kanya ang pagtataka. "Forget what?"
"I know you remember what happened on that Friday night. You kissed me on that
party." Nanlaki ang mga mata niya at naka-awang ang mga labi. I knew it!
Nahihiya siyang ngumiti. "Sorry. I didn't mean to..." Napahawak siya sa noo. "God,
I didn't know what I was doing. I shouldn't have done that."
"It's okay. Wala lang naman sa'kin 'yun. You were drunk and I understand. I'm sure
hindi na mauulit 'yon. It's just that... You're acting weird after that. Naiilang
na kasi ako." I said truthfully.
"Of course! It won't happen again."
"Can you also stop bringing me lunch. I just don't want other people to-"
"I understand don't worry. Sawa ka na siguro aa luto ko." She flashed a smile that
didn't reach her eyes. It was fake but my expression just remained passive.
My office phone suddenly beeped and I turned my attention on that before hearing
Lilly's voice.
"Atty. Alcazar, nandito po sa labas si Ms. Penelope. Should I send her in?"
I reached for the phone and pressed the right button before speaking. "Yes."
Ano kayang gusto niya? First time ang pagbisita niyang 'to.
Nawala na sa harapan ko si Jackie. Nakatayo siya sa harap ng mesa niya hanang may
kinukuhang mga papel. Siguro ay lalabas siya kaya may kinuha ako sa drawer at
lumapit sa kanya.
"Can you give this to Atty. Suarez when you pass by to his office."
"Sige." Napansin ko ang pagkawala ng sigla sa boses niya pero nakangiti parin ito.
I know it was something I said awhile ago. Hindi ko lang mawari kung ano sa mga
'yon.
She was halfway to the door when it opened. Niluwa ng pinto si Penelope na ngumiti
nang magtama ang mga paningin namin. She walked pass Jackie before wrapping her
arms around my neck for a hug. Niyakap ko naman siya pabalik.
Kapwa kami natawa. We heard the door shut that made us pull away from each other.
"Sino 'yon?"
"That's Jackie. Sorry about that."
"Gano'n ba?" Halos pabulong niyang sabi habang nakatingin parin sa nilabasan ni
Jackie.
Lumapit ako sa sofa at umupo. She followed me after.
"She's gorgeous." I frowned at what she said. "Maganda siya. I'm surprise that you
keep your hands and pants off her..."
"What the hell are you saying, Penelope?" Nakaramdam ako ng asar sa sinabi niya.
Nag-igting ang panga ko. "I'm already married to your sister. Pa'no mo nasasabi
'yan?"
That's one thing I don't like about her. Masyado siyang vocal. Lahat ng napupuna
niya sinasabi. Whether it's painful or not. Basta masabi niya lang.
"No offense pero I know about men. And men like you have this 'needs' all the
time. Knowing you, you've been celebating for what? Since kinasal ka kay Leanna?
Hindi ko alam kung hahanga ako sa'yo o iisipin kong bakla ka."
My frown deepened. "And how would you know something personal like that?"
"Dahil kilala ko kayong mag-asawa." She said matter-of-factly. "Leanna is too

innocent and you're so intact with righteousness, you refuse to hurt her. Tama ako
diba?"
I didn't answer her not because it's true but because I didn't want to talk about
it. Masyado na 'tong personal para pag-usapan na parang kaswal.
I still have needs. Tama siya do'n. Ilang taon na kong nagsasarili and I didn't
know how long I could hold on. Lalaki lang din ako. Hindi rin nakakatulong na may
kasamahan akong ubod ng ganda at seksi.
But in the end, I'm still a married man at mas matimbang ang prinsipyo ko kesa sa
tawag ng laman.
"Bakit ka nga ba nandito?" Pag-iiba ko ng topic.
Lumapad ang ngiti niya sa tanong ko. "So my birthday's coming up..."
"So that's where your excitements come from."
"Syempre naman. So ito nga... Dad asked me what my plans are and he'll take care of
it..."
Napailing nalang ako sa tuwa dahil alam ko na kung anong balak niya. Like her
previous birthdays, siguradong bonggang party ang mangyayari at hindi nga ako
nagkamali. Sinabi niya kung gano kagarbo ang gusto niya at kung sinong iimbitahin.
I remember the times when I was her escort. Ilang taon din 'yon lalo na't pag
single siya, ako ang automatic na escort.
"I want you to be my escort."
"Don't you have a boyfriend?"
"Break na kami..." She shrugged.
Umiling ako. "I'm married, Penelope. Hindi ito gaya ng dati. I'm not available."
"Please, Osias. I'm sure maiintindihan naman 'yon ni Leanna. Sige na." She held my
hand and looked me in the eyes, pleading.
Tumanggi ako. Kahit anong pilit niya ay hindi nagbago ang sagot ko. I told her to
ask Terrence that made her piss. Natawa lang ako sa pamimilit at pagmamaktol niya
tapos may naalala ako.
Tumigil ako sa pagtawa at seryoso siyang tinignan. "I wanna ask you something..."
Naramdaman niya ang pagkaseryoso ko kaya nawala ang pagkapilya sa tingin niya at
umayos ng upo.
"Do you noticed something... unusual when your mom's with Leanna?"
She thinks before answering. "Wala naman. Bakit mo tinanong?"
Tinitignan ko kung nagsasabi ba siya ng totoo o hindi. She was looking at me

straight.
I sighed and sit back. "Nothing..." Umiling ako at ngumiti.
Marahil ay hindi niya alam o baka wala naman talaga...
Baka nagkamali lang si Manang ng pagkakadinig...
Nagbukas ako ng email. Truth to what Jackie said, may email mga dito tungkol sa
meeting mamayang gabi. I also opened my calendar and my shoulders slumped, seeing
that even tomorrow's schedule is full. Nabasa ko rin na may four day seminar kami
pero isa lang sa'min ni Jackie ang pupunta.
Ugh! Gusto kong makasama ang asawa ko ng buong araw. Di bale, at least Sunday is
free.
Jackie went back after an hour. She seemed awfully quiet. Did I offend her or
something? Ewan ko pero wala naman akong sinabing masama.
Did she took my words in a different way?
Bakit? I just told her what I thought in a straight way...
We were busy but I often stole glances at her direction just looking what she's
doing.
I shook my head to clear my thoughts. Hayaan ko na nga lang siya. Magfo-focus muna
ako sa trabaho.
Uwian na. Alas sais palang at meron pa kaming isang oras na libre bago ang meeting.
Nag-ayos na siyang ng gamit at gano'n din ang ginawa ko. "Magkita nalang tayo sa
venue."
I was going to invite her to a cafe just to kill time but I think she needs some
space so I just nod.
Ang seven o'clock na meeting ay natapos ng almost ten. Ang dami nilang gustong
ipabago sa kontrata. They couldn't agree on something in it that's why it took
longer.
Tulog na naman ang asawa ko nang madatnan ko. Nang tumabi ako sa kanya at otomatiko
ang kanyang pagyakap.
She buried her face on my neck. It tickles every time she exhaled. I smelled her
hair and it smelled like flowers and vanilla. I love her scent. Everything feels
home with her.
I love everything when I'm with her.
Nasa salas kami at nanonood ng TV. Dito pala sa palabas na ito nakuha ni Lee ang
salitang divorce.
I was caught of guard when she asked me that. I felt a bit guilty when she asked me
about kissing someone. My lips where touched my someone else's lips but that was
not really a kiss. It's just as simple as two skins touching.
The only lips that I only want to taste is my wife's.
"Blakey, look! That's Sarah. She's mean. Don't kiss her like Jim, okay?"
Napatingin ako sa kanya. Namangha ako dahil straight ang pagkakasabi niya.
This couple of days, I noticed that her speech is getting good. Hindi na siya
nauutal.
Kunot ang noo niya habang nakahalukipkip. Her body's a bit twisted from sitting
while she looks at me with a frown. I think she's trying to look mad but she seems
so adorable with the way she looks.
Tatanungin ko sana siya pero hindi ko napigilan. I reached for her waist and kiss
her quickly. She was shocked at first with wide eyes. She blinked fast twice before
transferring her sit on my lap and kissed me.
I placed my hand under her armpit and held her back, pressing her more against me.
Then both my hands grips her thighs and pulled her closer.
She gasped as she felt my manhood wanting her.
Lahat ng ginagawa niya ay nakakahumaling. Mula sa paraan ng pag-ungol niya hanggang

sa nahigpit na kapit niya sa balikat ko. Ang kanyang amoy niyang hinahanap hanap
ko...
Hinalikan ko ang leeg niya at siniguradong mag-iiwan ng marka do'n. I moved her
hips against my crotch.
My chest rumbles and vibrates as I groan. The friction and her moans made her more
irresistible.
I stopped and we were both panting. Hawak niya ang magkabilang balikat ko habang
nakadikit ang noo sa aking leeg.
We can't go all the way like the way I wanted. I'm not sure if she's ready for the
pain so I'm gonna take it easy.
I wanna make sure that she won't get scared.
She's my tomorrow.
The concept of her tomorrow was quite different from the normal word. It's like
tomorrow is everything that makes her happy. The very sole reason to look forward
to and she wants me to be that.
She offered me and I gladly accepted that. Pero masyadong maikli 'yon so I gave her
more.
I am hers as she is mine. Tomorrow and forever.
"Bla...key..." Tiningala niya 'ko. I was shocked to see the desire in her eyes.
That she wanted me too like I did to her.
"Shhh, little wife. If you continue looking at me like that, making things easy
will be difficult."
Napasimangot siya sa pagtataka bago abutin ng mga labi niya ang aking panga. I
groaned and she giggled before doing it again and again.
"Ayaw mong tumigil, ah." I gave her a playful grin before tickling her.
Puro tawanan at kulitan lang ang bumuo ng araw namin.
Maaga akong dumating sa opisina. Binabasa ko ang file report na si-nend sa e-mail.
"Terrence Jay Natividad. Age, 24 at isang nurse. Currently enrolled sa UP-College

of Medicine..." Pinagpatuloy ko ang pagbabasa sa isip ko. Wala naman akong mabasang
kakaiba. His records are clean.
I hired an investigator two days ago to gave me details on him. Hindi kasi talaga
ako mapakali sa nangyari noong bumisita siya. Napag-isipan ko naring magpalagay ng
security system sa bahay kasama na ang mga CCTV.
Ayon dito ay nag-aaral siya para maging physical therapist.
Dinampot ko ang cellphone at tinawagan siya. Buti at pati cellphone number niya ay
nandito.
"Hello, Terrence?" Saad ko pagkasagot ng kabilang linya.
"Ito nga. Sino 'to?"
"This is Osias, asawa ni Leanna. Pwede ba tayong mag-usap ngayon?"
Tumahimik ang kabilang linya. Ang akala ko nga ay binabaan niya 'ko. I even looked
at my screen to check if the call's still connected. Nagtaka ako nang on-going
parin at tinawag siya.
"P-Pasensya na. Nasa campus kasi ako pero vacant ako ng 11:30am. May cafe dito
malapit sa campus."
I checked my wrist watch. 10:35am. "Sige. I'll be there."
Hinintay ko muna si Jackie bago ako umalis. She's late. Ten minutes before eleven
ay umalis na 'ko. Kay Lilly nalang ako nagbilin.
Medyo maraming tao sa Dolcezza. Karamihan mga estudyante. Maya't maya ay may mga
tumitingin sa'kin. Marahil ay dahil ako lang ang naka suit dito. May narinig pa
kong bulung bulungan na baka professor daw ako. I laughed.
Do I look like one?
A couple of minutes more and he arrived. I already ordered coffees for us and
they're still hot.
Nakita ko siyang palingon lingon at naghahanap. Hawak niya ang isang strap ng
backpack niya na nakasukbit sa isang balikat. Naka-uniform siya na all white
hanggang sapatos.
When he finally spotted me, he walked towards me and took a sit on my front.
"Sorry I'm late. May exam lang kasi." Sabi niya ng makaupo.
"Okay lang. Hindi naman ako matagal na naghintay. I ordered us coffee." Ngumiti
siya at nagpasalamay sa'kin na para bang naiilang. Mas mabuting bilisan ko na 'to.
I clasped my hands above the table and sat back like a man doing business.
"Anyways, I'm here to apologize for what had happened."
"Yun lang ba? Wala na sa'kin yun."
"Salamat. Isa pa, may gusto akong tanungin sa'yo..."
Pilit siyang ngumiti. "Is it about Leanna?"
Napatiim bagang ako nang banggitin niya ang pangalan ng aking asawa.
"I want to know what you did to her."

Nag-iwas siya ng tingin at nangunot ang noo. His mind is jumbled with thoughts.
Nagdadalawang isip kung sasabihin ba. Napansin ko rin ang paglalaro ng mga daliri
niya sa tissue. He's nervous.
Meaning, may tinatago siya.
"Mas mabuting sabihin mo na. My temper's long but turns handful when it comes to my
wife. I promised to protect her at wala akong pake kung kanino. Just speak up."
Napatingin siya sa'kin at ang nerbyos niya ay napalitan ng takot.
"I d-did nothing w-wrong." I mentally scolded myself.
Maling tinakot ko siya. Kainis! Baka lalong di 'to magsalita.
"Wala akong sinabi." I sighed and moved closer. "Ang gusto ko lang malaman ay kung
bakit napagod siya ng gano'n."
Sumandal siya ay nag-iwas na naman ng tingin. "Dapat ang mga tinatanong mo ay ung
malalapit sa'yo..."
"Anong ibig mong sabihin?" Mga taong malalapit sa'kin?
Ang takot at nerbyos sa mga mata niya ay napalitan ng determinasyon. He took a deep
breath before talking.
"Fine. I'll tell you. Your wife and I... matagal na naming ginagawa 'to matapos ko
siyang makilala..."
Ang alin?
Huminto siya at kinagat ang labi. Nagdadalawang isip na naman siya.
My jaw clenched with the pause. "What is it?"
"Kapag bumibisita ako lagi kong-"
Kapwa kami napatingin sa likod niya nang may tumawag sa pangalan niya. The voice is
very familiar.
"P-Pen..." He breathe. Halatang nagulat din siya gaya ko.
Naglalakad siya papunta sa'min nang nakangiti. Nagsimulang magtilian ang mga tao.
Napahinto siya dahil may mga humarang sa kanya para bumati. Nanatili ang kanyang
ngiti pero tumingin sa'min para humingi ng tulong.
A celebrity openly walking on a public place that's full of people? Is she out of
her mind!?
Napailing nalang ako habang si Terrence ay mabilis na lumapit sa kanya at hinila

siya. Nagmamadaling sumunod sa kanila ang kanyang mga tagahanga. Gumulo at umingay
ang paligid.
The place was almost empty after. Nakuyom ko nalang ang mga kamay ko dahil sa hindi
ko nalaman ang mga sasabihin niya.
Ano kaya 'yon?

Ano yung matagal na nilang ginagawa ng asawa ko?
Chapter 23
"Wala pa rin si Jackie?" Tanong ko kay Lilly.
She gave me an apologetic smile before answering. "Tumawag po siya. May sakit pa
rin daw po."
Two days na siyang absent dahil daw may sakit. Dumoble lalo ang trabaho ko dahil sa
pagkawala niya. Hindi pwede ngayon dahil nasa kanya ang mga kontrata na kailangan
bukas. May contract signing ang mga big boss at ang mga kliyente. Kailangan ko 'yon
ngayon.
Pumasok ako sa opisina at tinawagan si Jackie. Kailangan talaga namin ang

kontratang 'yon. She has the files of the final draft. Sa kanya naka-assign 'yon at
ipu-proof read pa para bukas.
"Hello..." Narinig ko ang mahinang boses niya. Halatang nanghihina pa siya.
"Pwede bang puntahan kita dyan? I'll just get the files for tomorrows contract
signing..."
"Okay... P-pasensya na." She coughed before ending the call.
Mukha talagang hindi maganda ang lagay niya. Ni hindi man lang nakapag paalam ng
maayos.
I didn't know her address so I opened her file under company profile and wrote her
address on a post-it. I peeled off the paper and grabbed my keys on the table.
Hindi malayo ang address niya sa bahay. Mga thirty minutes lang ang byahe pag
walang traffic. Napaisip tuloy ako kung bakit madalas siyang late. Pero gano'n
naman talaga. Kung sinong mas malapit, siyang laging late.
Pinark ko ang sasakyan at dumiretso sa elevator. Pinindot ko ang buton para sa

fifth floor. Nang tumapat ako sa room 516 ay pinindot ko agad ang doorbell. No one
answered so I tried knocking.
Still nothing.
I touched and turned the knob and the door opened. Kumunot ang noo ko.
Agad ko siyang nakita pagkapasok. Nakahiga siya sa sofa at nakabalot ng kumot.

Mukang hindi niya nakita o naramdaman man lang ang pagdating ko. I think she's
sleeping...
Medyo malaki ang unit niya. Pagkapasok mo ay makikita mo agad ang sofa katapat ang
isang flat screen TV at maliit na glass table sa pagitan nila with a low hanging
lamp above it. There's a small bookshelf sa likod ng sofa at mga halaman sa
magkabilang gilid.
Her place is simple, neat and clean.

Napansin ko ang kanyang paggalaw. Ni-lock ko ang pinto at lumapit. She was sweating
but she pulled the blanket up to her chin like she was feeling cold. Lifting my
hand to touch her forehead, I checked her temperature. She shut her eyes tight and
moaned upon the contact.
"Shit!" Masyadong mataas ang lagnat niya.
Nilibot ko ulit ang paningin ko sa paligid. Nas'an ang mga kasama niyang tumutuloy
dito? Is she living alone? Base sa itsura ng unit niya ay parang siya nga lang ang
nakatira.
"O..Osias..." Napalingon ako sa kanya. She coughed and forced herself to sit.
Kumilos agad ako. Agad lumapit at hinawakan siya sa balikat para ihiga muli.
"Don't force yourself. Nasa'n nakalagay ang mga gamot mo?"
Halos walang lakas niyang tinuro ang isang cabinet. Tumango ako at hinanap ang mga
gamot. Madali ko lang itong nakita dahil nasa labas na ito. Kumuha rin ako ng isang
basong tubig para sa kanya.
"Kumain ka na ba?" Pumikit siya bago mabagal na umiling.
"Bakit? Mas lalo kang magkakasakit niyan. You even let your door open. You should
take care of yourself better." Umubo lamang ito sa pangaral ko.
I sighed defeated. Hindi ko siya pwedeng painumin ng gamot nang walang laman ang
tiyan. Inalalayan ko siyang bahagyang umupo at pinainom muna siya ng tubig. Inayos
ko muna siya sa pagkakahiga at kinumutan bago pumunta sa kusina.
I just prepared a simple chicken soup. Buti nalang ay kumpleto siya dito. I checked
the time on my wrist watch and it's almost 5pm. Tinanaw ko siya mula sa kusina.
Hindi ko siya pwedeng iwan sa ganyang kalagayan.
She's too sick to move by herself.
Napakamot ako sa noo. Pa'no ba 'to? I have work to do and I was planning to do it
all before dinner so I could go home early.
Naputol ang pag-iisip ko nang umubo muli siya. Bumuntong hininga ulit ako bago
magsalin ng soup sa mangkok. I can't leave her. Aalis nalang ako after niyang
uminom ng gamot.
"Jackie. Jackie, wake up...You need to fill your stomach." Nilapag ko muna sa glass
table ung mangkok katabi ng tubig at dahan dahan ko siyang binuhat para sumandal sa
armrest.
She looked at me with heavy eyelids. Pinipilit na dumilat. Naaawa naman ako sa
kanya dahil hinang hina talaga ang lagay nito.
"So..rry..." nahihirapan niyang sabi.
"Saka na. Kumain ka muna." I knelled in one knee and reach for the bowl of soup.
"Ito." Nilapit ko ang kutsara sa bibig niya. She just stared at it then me. "Sige
na. You need to eat."
Isang pagod na ngiti ang binigay niya bago ito tanggapin. After three spoonful of
soups, she refused eating. Pinilit ko siyang ubusin lahat. Hindi ko siya napilit
pero nangalahati naman kaya okay na rin 'yon.
Nang makainom siya ng gamot ay humiga ulit siya. Nakatulog agad. Dapat ay aalis na
'ko pero napansin kong tumaas ang lagnat niya. I dabbed a towel I found in her
table on lukewarm water and placed it on her forehead.
Halos mataranta ako nang nanginig siya sa lamig kahit nakapatay na ang aircon.
Hindi ko alam kung sa kanya ba yung kwartong napasukan ko pero kumuha agad ako ng
maraming kumot.
Halos balutin ko na ang buong katawan niya nito. Laking ginhawa ko nang kalaunan ay
tumigil ang panginginig niya.
Umupo ako sa lapag at sumandal sa sofa. Nilingon ko ang natutulog niyang anyo.
Inaantok na 'ko at pagud pa. At leasst nakuha ko na ung thumb drive at-shït!
I immediately grabbed my coat I placed on the glass table and fished my phone.
Tinawagan ko agad si Lee. Patay tayo dyan! Hindi pala ako nakapagsabi sa kanya.
Bakit ko ba nakalimutan 'yon.
She didn't answer at gano'n nalang ang pagkalumo ko. I tried again.
"Osi...as? You're still h-here?" Niyuko ko siya at pinatay ulit ang tawag. "Hindi
ka pa u-uuwi?"
Umiling ako. "Matulog ka na ulit..."
"Medyo okay na k-ko." Ngumiti ako at bumalik sa pagkakaupo pero nakasandal na ko sa

lamesa paharap sa kanya. My right arm resting on my right knee while my other leg
was stretched out. "Baka magalit a-ang asawa mo..." She coughed.
"I bet she's sleeping now." Tinaggal ko nang tuluyan ang maluwag kong necktie at
nilapag sa ibabaw ng coat ko sa mesa. Naiinitan na ko. "Let's check your temp."
"I'm fine." She sighed and gave me a weak smile before looking straight at the
ceiling. "Tell me something a-bout your w-wife..."
Nagtaka ako sa tanong niya pero sinagot ko rin. It's very quiet in here and I need
something to keep me awake. Napangiti ako ng maisip si Lee.
"She's shy, very shy and quiet but I love the way she smiles the moment she sees me
home. She'll shout 'welcome home, husband tapos yayakap agad siya at hahalik. She
loves dogs and kids. She likes sweets especially cotton candies and cakes. All
kinds and colors. She smells sweet too. Siguro dahil do'n." I chuckled. "She's cute
when she acts tough but gorgeous when she smiles. She's also adorable kapag
naninimot siya ng icing sa plato." I laughed remembering the time when she licked
her plate clean. Hindi ko namalayan na sa bawat magandang naalala ko sa asawa ko ay
hindi rin ako natigil sa pagkwekwento.
"One time I hit my toe on a chair. It's nothing but she nursed me. She's a cuddle
maniac kaya binigyan ko siya ng nickname na cuddle cakes. Alam mo na kung sa'n ko
nakuha ung cakes. Siya naman ay Blakey ang tawag sa'kin..."
"Diba Osias Blaise ka?"
"Oo pero yun ang gusto niya at siya lang ang hinahayaan kong bigyan ako ng
nicknames."
"Siya lang?" Tumagilid siya ng higa sa'kin. I gave her a grin and nodded. "She must
be really special..."
"She is. She's my wife and I want to keep her happy always. To protect and cherish
her. One thing that I love about her are her eyes. They're very beautiful with
caramel and grey colors. Nakapa expressive ng mga 'to. They say too much but also
shows innocence like a kid."
Napansin ko ang pamumula ng mga mata niya kaya napatigil ako. Maybe it's because of
her fever.
"Dapat siguro magpahinga ka na..." She shook her head.
"Ano ba ang pinakagusto mo sa kanya?"
I looked and played with my wedding ring. "What I love about her is that she's my
wife and she'll be with me 'til tomorrow and forever."
Kanina pa kumakalabog ang dibdib ko habang nagkwe-kwento. It's not because I'm
scared or nervous or something close. My heartbeat's different. It's because I was
talking about my wife and I couldn't help but to feel happiness and longing with
every single word I said.
"Naging asawa ka niya para mapasaya siya?"
"A happy wife means a happy life." I chuckled ay my own joke and she smiled.
"How about the husband's happiness?"
"I'm okay as long as she's happy." Dahan dahan siyang bumangon at umupo. I was
about to help her but she already took care of that. Pagod siyang sumandal sa sofa.
"She sounds childish. I know she can't fulfill your needs..." Kumunot ang noo ko sa
kanya. "Narinig ko kayo sa opisina last week. Hindi niya magampanan ang pagiging
asawa. You're not getting any lay, aren't you?" Napatiim bagang ako nang mapagtanto
ko ang sinasabi niya.
"I think it's none of your business..."
"I can give it to you."
"What?"
"I can fulfill your needs if you just let me."
Hindi ko napigilang bigyan siya ng matalim na tingin. She looked tired but her eyes
shouted that she's serious. Hindi ko akalain na isang babaeng kagaya niya ay mag-
aalok sa'kin ng indecent proposal.
"Magpahinga ka na. Mukang malala pa ang sakit mo." Mariin kong sabi.
"I said I'm fine."
"Then I'm leaving." Tumayo ako at kinuha ang mga gamit ko pero hinawakan niya ko sa
kamay.
"Osias..."
"Do you have feelings for me?" Nakatalikod kong tanong.
Tinatanong ko ito base sa bigla niyang pagbabago ng kilos. When she's being clingy.
The way she dress and those times that she cooked me lunch meals. Pati ung halik.
Naiisip ko tuloy na hindi 'yon aksidente. Na sinadya niya ang paghalik sa'kin.
She didn't answer and you know what they say to being silent when asked.
Hinila ko ang kamay ko at naghandang umalis. Nang nasa pintuan na ko ay nilingon ko

siya. She was looking at me with tired and pleading eyes.
"You're an attorney Jackie but you have the guts to ask me that. Offering me to
cheat on my wife? What makes you think na tatanggapin ko 'yan? Oo. I never had sex
with my wife but that doesn't mean I'll pounce on every woman offering themselves."
Tiim bagang kong sabi. "Kakalimutan ko ang sinabi mo pero hindi na kita kayang
pakitunguhan gaya ng dati."
I saw her cheeks got wet as her tears travelled from her eyes. Agad niya 'tong
pinunansan.
Lumabas na ko at dumiretso sa parking lot. Napahampas ako sa manibela bago

magmaneho pauwi. Bumubuhos ang malakas na ulan.
Grabe. Hindi talaga ako makapaniwala. She knows that I'm married! Then why did she
say that? Dahil bang alam niyang wala pang nagyayari sa'min ni Lee? And so what!?
Dammit! Talaga bang may mga desperadang tao sa mundo na kahit may asawa na ay
pinapatulan pa? She's a woman of law for God's sake. I don't think I can treat her
like we're friends anymore. What she did draws a line between us.
Mahigpit ang yakap ko kay Leanna bago matulog.
What makes her think that I'll say yes? Iniisip niya bang ipagpapalit ko si Lee sa
kanya. Never and no one could replace my wife. She's one of a kind.
Ilang oras lang ang tulog ko. Naghabol pa ko ng deadline para sa contract signing.
Buti nalang ay natapos ko ito.
Isang linggong hindi pumasok si Jackie. Hindi ko sigurado kung dahil may sakit pa
siya o ayaw niya lang ako makita. Actually hindi ko alam kung pa'no na siya
pakikitunguhan. I think we just need to be civil.
May mga bagay na hindi na pwedeng ibalik kagaya nalang nang pagiging malapit namin.
"Sa'n mo gustong sumakay, Cuddle cakes?" I said, intertwining our hands.
Umalis kami at dinala ko siya sa Enchanted. People are coming in our house. Andon
sila para mag set up ng security system. Ayokong maistorbo nila siya.
"There!" She pointed to the roller coaster.
"Are you sure?" Kunot noo kong tanong. Malapad ang ngiti niya habang mabilis na
nagpatango tango. "Sige. Wait me here. I'll go first to the restroom." She nod
again and made herself busy by eating cotton candy.
Nilingon ko muli siya bago ako pumasok sa CR. Ayoko siyang iwan mag-isa sa bench
pero naiihi na talaga 'ko. I need to make this quick.
Lumabas ako habang nagpupunas ng kamay gamit ang tissue. I saw her smiling widely
while looking down to her phone. Hindi ko maiwasang magtanong sa isip ko kung sino
ang ka-text niya.
I don't know anyone who has her number except for me. Maybe she's playing a game?
But she doesn't look like playing. More like texting.
I tossed the tissue in the bin and walked to her.
Gusto ko sanang tignan kaso saktong tinago niya ito sa sling bag niya pagdating ko.
She smiled and stood up to hug me and her smile made me forget about it in an
instant.
"You ready to ride the roller coaster?"
"Roller coaster?" She tilted her head to the side. Tinuro ko at pinaliwanag kung
ano 'yon. After that, she got excited again to ride it.
Naalala ko na naman ung sinabi ni Terrence. I wanted to talk to him again but I
couldn't contact him. Ang alam ko nagkabalikan na sila ni Penelope.
Gabi na nang makauwi kami. Iniwan ko si Lee na nagpapahinga sa kwarto para puntahan
si manang Josie. Tinanong ko siya kung na-install ba ng maayos ung mga CCTV pati
ung security system sa buong bahay. I let her supervise them while Leanna and I
were away.
Tinuro niya sa'kin kung sa'n nakalagay ang mga camera. Meron sa kusina, sa labas ng
banyp, sa hallway ng corridor pati sa likod at harap ng bahay. Ang mga data na
nakukuha nito ay automatic na nagsa-save sa hard drive ng computer ko sa office. I
upgraded my computer for that beforehand.
"We have a little celebration tonight, cuddle cakes. Late na naman ako
makakauwi..." Paalam ko sa aking asawa bago ako umalis. "ando'n din ang daddy mo."
Her face changed into a frown. "Okay." She just said that pero alam kong malungkot
na naman siya.
She told be that she's sad whenever I was not around. This past couple of days, I
really tried hard to keep my work done so I could come back home early. Kahit
minsan hindi na 'ko nakakakain ng tanghalian.
Thinking that made me thought of Jackie's cooking. Tinanggal ko agad 'yon sa utak
ko. There's no reason for me to remember that.
Pagdating ko sa opisina ay nando'n na si Jackie. Kagaya ng nasabi ko no'n. Nagbago

na ang pakikitungo ko sa kanya. We were now civil.
"Atty. Gardiola..." Tawag ko sa kanya. Blangko ang ekspresyon niya nang magtas siya
ng tingin. "Let's talk about the seminar. Sinong a-attend sa'tin?"
"We could talk about it after the celebration tonight. Next week pa naman hinihingi
ng General Director ung pangalan."
Tumango at dumiresto ako sa aking upuan.
"Is the file here for Sapphire Project already updated, Atty.?" Hinihntay kong
magbukas patungo sa desktop ang computer ko nang magtanong siya. Inalala ko ung
file na sinabi niya.
"Yes. No need to double check that. Yung sa Tower malls ang hindi pa."
Ganyan lang ang laman ng pag-uusap namin. All about work. Sinabi ko nga sa kanya na
kalimutan lahat ng sinabi niya pero alam ko, kahit sa'kin ay malabong mangyari
'yon.
Sino bang makakalimot kapag inalok ka ng gano'n and I know that in her side, hindi
madaling kalimutan ang rejection. Naro'n ang mahihiya ka sa taong sinabihan mo 'yon
pero malakas at matatag talaga siyang babae. Hindi ko nakikitang naapektuhan siya
sa mga nangyari.
Pati mga kasamahan namin nakakapansin lalo na si Lilly. Buti hindi nila magawang
magtanong.
I admit that sometimes, lalo na 'pag sobrang tahimik ng opisina at tambak ang
trabaho, name-miss ko ang kakulitan niya pero mas okay na 'yon kaysa sa asawa ko
ang mawala sa'kin.
Maybe, she did have feelings for me. Siguro din ay nag-assume lang ako but whether
there is or there's no feelings involved, hindi ko parin alam kung bakit niya
ginawa 'yon.
There's a thing called wrong love. Yes, we can't stop that but what we can control
are the wrong actions and response on that.
We went separately to the venue. Sa isa itong resto-bar ginanap. Nilapitan ko muna
si Papa pagkarating ko. Nagbatian lang kami at nagkamustahan kasi gaya ng dati,
saglit lang siya at iumalis na pagkatapos ng maikling speech. Maayos pa ang lahat
pero nang nawala na ang mga big boss, nagbago ang ambiance.
Nagsilabasan ang mga alak at mga banda.
"Dito Atty. Alcazar!" Nilingon ko ang tumawag sa'kin.
I saw Atty. Suarez waving his hand to me and signing me to go to their sits.
Bumati ako at umupo sa kaliwa niya. Lima silang nakapalibot sa bilog na lamesa
maliban sa'kin. Katabi ni Atty. Jon Suarez si Lilly sa kanan. Si Jackie ang sumunod
na tinanguan ko lang. Si Bea at Danilo na kapwa mga attorney bago si Xander na nag-
iisang intern ng legal department.
"Pwede na tayong magliwaliw. The bosses are gone!" Sigaw ni Jon. Naghiyawan naman
ang iba at nagtaas ng inumin.
The band was playing and the place was getting loud. Nagsimula naring magsayawan
ang iba.
"Ang konti naman ng ininom mo, Atty. Have some more." Sinalinan niya ng brandy ang
baso ko.
"Hindi 'wag na. magda-drive pa 'ko pauwi." Tanggi ko. Nakatatlong baso palang ako
pero wala talaga akong balak magpakalasing.
Apat nalang kami dito sa upuan. Tumayo si Bea at Xander kanina para magsayaw.
"Atty., don't worry... andyan naman si Atty. Gardiola." Natatawang sabi ni Danilo.
Napatingin ako kay Jackie na agad nag-iwas ng tingin at napainom ng alak.
Napansin ng mga kasamahan ko ang awkwardness sa pagitan namin. Nagkatinginan sila

at sandaling tumahimik sa lamesa namin.
"Ganito nalang..." Binasag ni Jon ang katahimikan. "Lalagyan ko ng alak ang dalawa
sa shot glass tapos ung isa tubig. You just need to choose the water one out of the
three." Naglagay siya ng clear Smirnoff sa dalawang shot glass at tubig na galing
sa pitchel ang isa.
"Pag tubig, you're free to go. 'Pag ung alak naman ang nakuha mo, you need to drink
the whole bottle of Smirnoff." Dagdag niya pa.
Nagngitian sila at tumango sa sinabi ni Jon. Kinakantyawan nila 'ko kaya wala akong
nagawa kung hindi ang tumango. Si Jackie naman at nanatiling tahimik.
Sa dulong kanan ang nilagyan niya ng tubig. Basta tititigan ko lang 'yon para sure
na 'yan ang mapipili ko.
"Ako na!" Pag prisenta ni Lilly.
Hinawakan niya mula sa taas ang dalawang baso sa dulo. She changed their position
by sliding then transfer her right hand to the middle glass. Ilang beses niya 'yong
ginawa habang ako ay nakatingin lang sa basong may laman na tubig.
"May boyfriend ka na ba, Atty. Gardiola?" Rinig kong tanong ni Jon.
"Wala pa..."
"Do you have someone special?"
"Yes but he has someone else already." Bigla akong napa-angat ng tingin kay Jackie.
She looked at me with sad eyes before taking a taste of her drink. She did that
without looking away.
May sinabi pa si Jon na nginitian niya lang.
"Oh, pili na attorney." I immediately drop my gaze to the glasses.
Shit! Sa'n na dito 'yon.
Bwiset! Na-distract ako.
Asan dito 'yon!?
Tinatawanan nila ako dahil halatang hindi ko alam kung san dito yong tubig. I chose
the middle one.
I drank it with one gulp. Ang init at pait ay agad gumuhit sa lalamunan ko.
Napangiwi ako kasabay ng pagsigaw at halakhak nila.
"You lose. So ito na!" Nilapag ni Danilo ang bote ng alak na kailangan kong ubusin.
Dammit! Dapat di nalang ako nagpapilit.
We spent the rest of the party drinking and talking nonsense that we laughed out
loud. Masaya naman pala silang kasama eh. Nakakatawa. Lalo na si Jon.
I forgot everything for a moment and kept on having fun. May sinabi ulit si Jon na
nakakatawa. Tinungga ko ang bote ng alak at naubos ito.
I know it's time to go when the had the last drop. Kanina ko pa naramdaman ang
hilo.
"I need to g-go." I said sluggish. Piniling ko ang aking ulo sa kanan pero lalo
akong nahilo.
I groaned and slumped back to the leather chair. Umiikot ang paningin at kumikirot
na ang sintido ko.
Fvck!
Naramdaman kong may umalalay sa'kin. I'm dizzy but I saw cars so I guessed where in
a parking lot. Natapikok ako at muntik nang bumagsak pero nakatukod ako sa matigas
tapos napaupo ako sa malambot na bagay.
Pakiramdam ko ay nakalutang ako habang nakaupo. I was moving forward. Hindi ko na

alam kasi napasandal ako at napapikit.
Paggising ko ay hilung hilo parin ako. Hinawakan ko ang ulo kong masakit. Tinignan
ko ang paligid. Pinipilit na idilat ang mga mata. Nasa loob ako ng sasakyan.
Is this mine?
Pagtingin ko sa labas, may bahay. I made a weary smile and went out. I almost
stumbled pero may umalalay na naman sa'kin.
Sinilip ko kung sino 'yon. "W-Wife?" Bulong ko. Hindi ko maiwasang mapangiti. I'm
home and with my wife. I cupped her face and kissed her lips. Mas lalong lumawak
ang ngiti ko pagkatapos.
I didn't know how we manage to get to the bedroom but we did. Bumagsak agad ako sa
kama. Tinulungan ako ni Lee na tanggalin ang coat at necktie ko.
God it's so hot!
Kahit halos pumikit na ko ay hinanap ko parin si Lee. Hindi ako mapakali 'pag wala
siya sa tabi ko. Agad ko siyang niyakap nang maramdaman ko siya sa aking tabi.
Gumalaw siya pero nanghina na ko at nakatulog.
I woke up with a massive headache.
I groaned. It fvcking hurts. It's like my head was being hammered from the inside.
Wala pa kong lakas bumangon kaya niyakap ko nalang nang mahigpit si Lee.
Nakapikit lang ako at nilanghap ang amoy niya. She smelt awesome. My one hand
traveled down her bare back.
Wait a sec!
Lee smelled like vanilla and flowers not some expensive perfume. Parang bago din sa
katawan ko ang yakap niya. It's like she didn't fit in my arms.
Agad akong napadilat at bahagyang lumayo.
"Fvck!" Parang nawala ang hilo at sakit sa ulo ko nang makita ang hubad na katawan
ng katabi ko.
Bakit siya hubad? Bakit ako nakahubad?
I kept asking myself but then I remembered what happened last night. Bits by bits
but I still remembered.
"What.the-" Halos manlumo ako nang maalala ang mga nangyari. How things turned
uncontrollable after we hit the bed.
Gusto kong kalimutan ang lahat. The kisses, moans, groans, how we touched each
other... everything we did under the sheets.
Nagmadali ako sa pagbangon at hinanap ang mga nagkalat kong damit.
I felt her stirred behind me but I didn't even give her a glance.
Hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko. How could she do that to me!? I was drunk
dammit!Hindi ko alam kung kanino ako magagalit. Sa'kin ba o sa kanya pero nangyari
na.
Nagkasala ako.
Ano nang gagawin ko?

Chapter 24-1
"Osias, can we talk?" Hindi ko siya pinansin at nagdere-deretso sa papuntang
elevator. Wala akong pake kung puro pagsusumamo ang boses niya.
She's walking fast by the sound of her heels just to catch up with my steps.
I had my satchel on my shoulders and was eager to go home. Hindi pa ba niya

nahahalata na ayoko siyang makausap. Ni ayaw ko siyang makita but this woman kept
on pestering me like a lost puppy.
Naabutan niya ko nang sumakay ako ng elevator. She went in. I looked coldly at her
that made her avoid my gaze. Mabuti nalang at dalawa lang kami dito sa loob. Sumara
ang pinto at pinindot ko ang buton para sa ground floor. Naramdaman ko siyang
pumunta sa dulo.
"What do you want?" Malamig kong sabi. Hinarap ko siya.
Nagtama ang tingin namin. Her eyes showed sadness, hesitation, pain... So many
negative emotions but the one thing I wanted to see was not there.
Regret.
She didn't even regret what happened. Kahit katiting wala. I have had enough of
her. I placed my hands in my pockets. Nakuyom ko ang aking mga palad at nag-igting
ang panga.
"Let's forget about everything, ok-"
"Ikaw pa ang may ganang magsabi niyan?" I laughed with sarcasm. "Do you think that
I love or even like to remember that dreadful memory? Sana nga may paraan kung
pa'no makakalimutan 'yon. Kung meron man, isasama ko lahat ng alaalang meron ako
sa'yo. Simula noong makilala kita. I regret meeting you even."
Nagsimulang mamula ang gilid ng kanyang mga mata. Nagbabadya ang pagtulo ng mga
luha pero kahit katiting na awa wala akong maramdaman.
"Hindi ko naman ginus-" My hand reached and grabbed her arm. She winced upon
contact.
"Sasabihin mong hindi mo ginusto, diba? You're gonna say you're sorry? Well it's
too late. It happened already, okay? And I don't care so stay away from me."
The elevator dinged and I let her go harshly. I turned my back at her. For a sec, I
saw a drop of tear of her eye. She's crying for what? I don't care.
"I just love you..." I scowled at what she whispered.
Kumakabog ang dibdib ko dahil sa galit. Love me!? Fvck that love! I just want to
let this out. To take back what I had done but it's too late.
Pwede akong magalit sa kanya. Pwede kong kamuhian ang aking sarili pero wala ring
mangyayari. Napakalaki ng kasalanan ko. Kung sinu sino ang sinisi ko.
Bakit kasi pinilit pa 'ko ni Jon?
Bakit hinayaan nila si Jackie na kunin ako?
Bakit niya hinayaang may mangyari sa'min?
Bakit ako nagpakalasing?
I know that she wasn't the only one to be blamed but dammit! She's sober! She was
the one with a working mind that time.
Nakauwi ako sa bahay nang puro pag-sisisi ang nasa isip. Mas lalo itong lumala nang
makita ko si Lee kasama ang pamilya niya na nagme-meryenda sa garden. It felt a
thousand times worst.
How am I supposed to smile to them?
Nilapitan ko sila. Palapit palang ako ay nakita ko na ang matamis na ngiti ng aking
asawa. Her smiles of excitement and longing just add fire to the guilt.
Ga'no katagal kong mararamdaman ang ganito? I'd loved the way she shown me that for
as long as I can remember but now, meron nang mabigat na pakiramdam 'pag nakikita
ko 'yon.
For how long?
Maybe always.
"Osias..." Papa greeted me with warm smile. Penelope's and mama's eyes were on me.
Tumango ako sa kanya at nilapitan si Lee. She looked so excited waiting for me to
sit on the empty chair beside her. Nawala ang ngiti niya at tumingin sa pwesto nila
mama. Napayuko siya at hindi na tumingin sa'kin.
Her actions made me thought about something...
Hinalikan ko siya sa noo bago umupo sa tabi niya. Pinaggitnaan namin siya ni Papa.
"Mukang miss na miss ka ng asawa mo. 'Wag kang masyadong subsob sa trabaho."
"Yes, Pa..." Sagot ko bago tignan si Mama at Penelope na nasa kabilang bahagi ng
mesa. "Kamusta ka'yo, ma?"
"We're fine, hijo. I heard that you're doing great at work. Congrats, Osias."
"Thanks, ma."
"Osias, kilala mo ung may-ari ng Hotel de Grande, diba? Can you ask him if we could
have the event hall for my birthday? Nung kinontak namin, naka-reserve na daw eh.
Please..."
"Sige kakausapin ko siya mamaya..." I replied.
Halata talagang excited siya sa paparating niyang kaarawan. She even said that
she'll have vlogs for that.
Papa supported her all the way. Lahat ng gusto niya ay si Papa na daw ang gagastos.
Lalo tuloy siyang nasabik.
We talked about work after. The maid delivered my food when he was telling us about
his visit in Zimbabwe. Do'n kasi ang pinaka main branch ng minahan ng mga
mamahaling bato. Ang alam ko ay gusto nang paalisin ng Presidente ang mga
international projects na may kinalaman sa minahan.
Nagkaroon ng problema ang kumpanya dahil do'n.
"You want more?" I asked Lee while holding the side of her waist. Wala na kasing
laman ang plato niya at kanina ko pa napapansin na parang tahimik siya.
Dahan dahan siyang tumango ng hindi tumitingin. I frowned. She's not like this when
it's the two of us alone.
Nang tawagin ko ang maid ay nahagip ng paningin ko ang matalas na tingin ni mama
kay Lee habang umiinom ng tsaa.
Is that why Lee is too quiet?
I was observing her movements in front of them while we talked about work and
Penelope's birthday. Napakaliit ng galaw niya at lahat ng ito ay may pag-
aalinlangan at kalkulado.
Nang matapos kami ay pinauna ko na si Lee sa loob.
"Darling, daddy's leaving." Papa said before she rushed in. Nauna na sa sasakyan
sina Penelope at Mama Anita.
Mabilis siyang lumapit kay papa. Papa's smile never leaving while looking at her
daughter.
They hugged and kissed each other on the cheeks. Nakita kong may binulong si Lee sa
kanya. Nanlaki ang mga mata nito na parang nagulat bago ngumiti at tumawa.
"Okay, darling. Darating din 'yan..." Lee smiled widely before going in the house.
"Dalaw ulit kayo dito, Pa." Aniko pagkaalis ni Lee.
"Osias..." Biglang nagbago ang boses niya at naging seryoso. "Nang mag-rounds ako
sa department niyo, I heard a quite disturbing gossip."
Biglang bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko sa di malamang dahilan. I think what Papa's
about to say got something to do with it.
"Ano 'yon, Pa?"
Kumunot ang noo niya. "I heard that you and Atty. Gardiola had been pretty close to
each other..."
"We're civil. We're close when it's all about work."

Tumango siya pero hindi parin nagbabago ang tingin nito sa'kin. He walked closer
and held my shoulder. "Sige. But know that my daughter is the only person that
matters to me."
He tapped my shoulder once and smiled broadly.
"Kayo naman ang dumalaw sa'min sa susunod."
"Y-Yes, Pa." I said in a thin smile.
"At saka sa birthday ni Leanna, gusto niya daw ng baby kaya bilis bilisan mo na.
.
.
.
.
.
"Wife... Gising na. We're here..." Marahan kong hinaplos ang kanyang buhok habang
tinitignan ang unti unti niyang paggising.
Kinusot niya ng kamay ang kanyang mga mata. "Nandito na tayo." She looked at me
with drowsy eyes before looking outside.
Do'n na napako ang tingin niya. Bumaba ako at pinagbuksan siya ng pinto. May mga
lumapit agad saming mga bellboy at kinuha ang aming mga maleta.
Mahigpit ang kapit ni Lee sa braso ko hanggang makaalis na sila. Mero'n pa ngang
isa na gustong kunin ang bag niya kaso sinabi kong 'wag na.
Lumapit ako sa reception at nag check-in. I have her close to me even when we were
in the elevator.
Pagkarating namin sa kwarto ay nagtatatalon agad siya sa kama. She's so happy and
excited kaya hinayaan ko siya at naligo muna.
Nasa isang branch kami ng Hotel de Grande, ang pagmamay-ari ni Renz. Dito rin kasi
gaganapin ung seminar.
I let Lee come with me because I didn't want her to be alone in our house. Though,
ando'n naman si Manang para samahan siya, siguro mas magandang isama siya para
naman makakita siya ng ibang lugar. Isa pa, we could have our own time here. May
dalawang araw pang libre bago ang seminar.
Paglabas ko ay nakita ko siyang naglalaro kasama ung stuffed toy. Naka indian sit
siya sa kama habang hawak ang laruan.
"Behave! Behave! Bad doggie..." Pagalit niyang sabi sa laruan habang pinapalo ng
kamay.
"It's your turn, cuddle cakes. Hinanda ko na ang paligo mo."
Napatingin siya sa'kin at basta nalang binitawan ang hawak. Nahulog ito sa sahig
nang tumayo siya kaya dinampot ko ito at binalik sa kama.
She was stripping bare while I was putting on my clothes. Halos araw ko nakikita
ang katawan niya pero parang mas mahihirapan ako ngayon.
There's the feeling that I wanted to touch her and made love to her all day but I
was holding myself back. Ang problema ko ay kung hanggang kelan ko 'to magagawa.
Naalala ko no'ng tinanggihan niya 'ko. That rejection was like a punch on my guts
and my heart but harder. Ang sakit no'n pero dapat ko siyang respituhin.
"Blakey, I'm hungry..." Sinusuklay ko ang buhok niya habang nakaupo kami sa kama.
"Saglit na lang, cuddle cakes. I already ordered us food."
Hindi nagtagal ay dumating na nga ang pagkain. We enjoyed our food while talking. I
know that her birthday's coming. Isang bwan at mahigit nalang.
Ano kayang magandang gawin para sa birthday niya. Maganda sana kung mabuntis at
magkaanak na kami kaso mukang matatagalan pa 'yon.
After eating, we watched a Disney movie. I settled her on my lap. Tuwang tuwa siya
sa Inside Out. She cried when Bing Bong vanished.
Nang matapos ang movie ay sinunod naming panoorin ang The Good Dinosaur. Tutok na
tutok siya sa 'baby' do'n sa palabas.
We went to bed after. Nag-iisip ako kung sa'n ko siya pwedeng dalhin bukas. Hindi
ko rin kasi alam kung anong mga pwedeng puntahan dito sa Palawan. I guess I need to
do some research tomorrow before we leave.
Naghahanda na 'ko ng mga gagamitin namin bukas habang siya ay nauna na sa kama.
When I was done, I slip myself under the covers and laid beside her.
I was surprised when she moved half above me before kissing me.
"What was that for, cuddle cakes?" Hindi niya ko sinagot bagkus ay hinalikan muli
ako.
I felt her desire when her tongue licked my bottom lips. I smiled before opening
for her. I was proud of her because she's opening up and gaining confidence. She
kissed me like how I always kissed her.
Tuluyan na siyang pumatong sa'kin. I held the back of her head and pushed her
closer to me. My other hand on her lower back.
Pumatong ako sa kanya. He placed a palm on my lower back and grabbed the back of my
head, pushing my face closer.
She moaned and I tilted her head to deepened the kiss more. I pushed my tongue and
explore the inside of her delicious mouth.
Hinihingal siyang pinutol ang halik.
"I want to s-start a family with my h-husband." Sabi niya na mas lalo kong
kinagulat.
"Are you sure?" I asked. I didn't want to feel rejected again for the second time.
Pa'no nalang kung ayaw niya pa pala?
"Yes." She inhaled. "Osi's not here and he c-can't see us anymore."
"Osi? Kaya ba umiwas ka no'n dahil sa kanya?" Kunot noo kong tanong.
My eyes couldn't stop looking at her moving lips. She bit it that made my inside
burn with heat of desire. I wanted her.
"You don't know how happy this makes me..."
"If this makes y-you happy then I w-want to start now." I chuckled at her
impatience.
I saw her shivered a bit when I moved my hand to caress her back. Ramdam ko ang
init ng balat niya kahit pa may telang humaharang.
I love how her body response to my touch. I looked at her straight to her eyes.
Hindi na ko makapaghintay na mapasa akin siya.
"Kiss me." I demanded and the moment she kissed me, I knew then and there that it
would be the best night of my life.
Chapter 24-2
OSIAS' POV FROM CHAPTERS 16-20
"OKAY, this ends everything. Thanks for attending this seminar and I hope we see
again soon." Sabi ng speaker na nagpangiti sa'kin.
Tumayo ako para makipagkamay at magpasalamat sa kanya. Gano'n din ang ginawa ng
ilang mga umattend.
I left the event hall without my smile faltering. Ilang araw nang maganda ang araw
ko at ngayon ay nasasabik na 'kong bumalik sa kwarto namin.
So this is what feels like when you know that your wife's waiting for you at home.
The eagerness while walking back intensifies.
Alam ko, ilang months na ring ganito kami. Yung pag-uwi ko ay madadatnan ko si Lee
na naghihintay sa'kin but I'll be honest. More on guardian ang pakiramdam ko no'n
sa kanya pero iba na ngayon.
That's because one relationship had made a step higher than before. It has added
more spice on our husband and wife relationship.
Was is because we made love?
Part of it.
It's because she told me that she loved me. I couldn't say the same yet, but I was
getting there. I'm close and I want to fall in love with her and her only.
Dumaan muna ako sa malapit na flower shop at cake shop.
Triple chocolate cake and a bundle of roses.
Inamoy ko muna ang mga bulaklak at napangiti. I hope that she'd like this.
Who am I kidding?
Simple lang siyang babae at madaling mapasaya. Alam kong magugustuhan niya 'to pero
kinakabahan pa rin ako na baka hindi.
Damn! Why am I acting like a fvcking kid who's meeting his crush?
I rushed to the elevator and pressed our floor number. Habang nasa loob ay tsini-
check ko kung okay lang ang lahat.
Ang damit ko, ang mga bulaklak at kung okay ba ung cake. Bakit ang tagal ng
elevator?
After what it felt like eternity, the door opened and I couldn't help but to
immediately got off the lift and rushed to our room.
Inilipat ko muna ang bulaklak sa kabilang kamay para pareho kong mahawakan ang
aking mga bitbit. Kinuha ko ang card key at binuksan ang pinto.
"I'm home! Where's my cute little wife?" I shouted, hiding my present behind me.
Agad kong narinig ang yapak ng kanyang mga paa. Not a second later, she came
running from the bedroom's direction.
Napakaganda niya suot ang kanyang ngiti. Her hair bounced and freely flew from her
back while also wearing my T-shirt from last night. Nagmukha itong dress sa kanya
dahil sa sobrang laki. She looked hot on my shirt.
She jumped giggling, wrapping her arms around my neck. Good thing I managed to
caught her in one arm.
"Welcome home, my husband..." masiglang bati niya bago dagdagan ito ng halik sa
labi. "You have fun in seminar?"
"Yes, my wife but not as exciting and fun as when I'm with you." Mabilis ko siyang
ginawaran ng halik sa tungki ng kanyang ilong na ikinahagikgik nito.
I placed her down, careful not make what I was hiding be seen.
"I have a present for you..." Sa salitang 'present' palang ay kuminang na ang
kanyang mga mata.
Inilabas ko agad ang aking tinatago at ibinigay sa kanya.
"Flowers and cake!" Sabik na kinuha niya ang mga ito mula sa akin.
It made me happy to see her smelling the flowers. "Thanks, Blakey. They're pretty
and smell good. Can we eat the cake now?"
"Mamaya nalang sa dinner, cuddle cakes." Kinuha ko ang mga ito at inilapag sa
malapit na lamesa.
Hinawakan ko ang kamay niya at iginaya siya sa sofa. I slumped down on a chair with
a groan. Hindi siya umupo at pumasok ulit sa kwarto. I took of my coat and tie.
Sinundan ko siya ng tingin ng lumabas ito. She had slippers on her hand and knelt
down to grab my shoes. She took it off and slipped the slippers on me.
"Thanks, cuddle cakes." She smiled proudly. A smile that could light up any
darkness and stood up to sit on my lap, her back on my chest.
Inabot niya ang remote sa glass table at binuksan ang TV. Ako naman ay agad na
hinalikan at inamoy ang bango niya sa leeg, ang mga braso ko sa kanyang bewang. Her
natural scent of vanilla, flowers and a hint of sweat engulfs me. I moaned softly
and kissed her neck.
"You smell sweet..." Pansin kong hindi pa siya naliligo pero nananatili parin
siyang mabango.
Sumandal siya sa'kin habang ang paningin ay nanatili sa TV.
"Bakit hindi ka pa nagpalit ng damit? Are you bored in here? I'm sorry dahil hindi
tayo nakagala habang nandito. Did you have fun playing with Doggie?" I softly
asked.
"Doggie won't listen to me so I locked him dog house as punishment. Pero walang dog
house dito kaya sa cabinet nalang." Aniya.
"Well maybe he's hungry now so go get him. I'll order us some food."
Inilapag niya ang remote at kumilos para kunin ang kanyang laruan. I sighed
thinking that she got bored here. I'm not sure if I should scold myself or what.
Ang gusto ko kasi dito lang siya. I couldn't help it. I wanted to have her all for
myself. She's so irresistible. Kanina nga hindi ko mapigilan ang sarili ko. I
wanted to touch her and pull her close to mine.
I'm being selfish, am I?
Tumayo ako at nilapitan ang telepono malapit sa TV. Nilingon ko siyang kababalik
lang at pinapagalitan ang laruan niya. Her forehead's scrunched into a frown that I
found really adorable.
Napaka inosente niya. She's gentle and kind. I felt a pang on my chest when I
remembered the sin I have committed.
How could I even done that to her.
"Hello. Hotel de Grande services. How may I help you?"
My ride on the guilt train ended when my call got answered.
Umorder ako ng hapunan namin. We still need to wait for thirty minutes before it
arrived so I helped Lee on her bath first that ended up both under the showers.
Matapos maligo ay saktong tumunog ang doorbell. That must be the food.
Nag-roba ako at binuksan ang pinto. I left Lee in the bedroom. Hinayaan kong ayusin
ng service crew ang hapag habang ako ay binalikan ang aking asawang sinusuklay ang
kanyang buhok habang nakaupo sa kama.
Walking closer, she noticed me and gave me a loving smile. Kinuha ko ang suklay sa
kanya at pinagpatuloy ang kanyang ginagawa. Umupo ako sa harap niya.
I love how her hair flew smoothly against the gap of my fingers. Napakaganda ng
buhok niya hindi gaya ng ibang babaeng babad sa salon. Hers was more natural.
"Are we gonna go h-home?" She asked.
"Bakit? Are you not happy with me?"

Mabilis ang ginawa niyang pag-iling. "I'm happy. Let's just stay here..."
"Gusto ko rin sana kaso hindi pwede, cuddle cakes."
Napanguso siya at sumimangot na agad ding nawala. "Okay. As long as you won't leave
me. I'll be happy because you're my tomorrow and forever and I love you."
Parang may biglang humaplos sa aking puso habang buong pagmamahal siyang nakatingin
sa'kin.
I'm not sure if I could live my life without this woman. Isipin ko palang mawawalay
siya sa'kin ay parang sumasakit na ang dibdib ko.
Pa'no kung isang araw malaman niya ang ginawa ko. Though, iniisip ko kung
maiintindihan niya ang nagawa ko. Pa'no kung oo? Would she leave me? Would she
still lovingly look at me like this?
Iniisip ko ang lahat ng pwedeng mangyari habang hinahaplos ang makinis niyang
mukha.
"I won't, Lee. I promise because I know what I want. Because I know that there's
tomorrow if you won't be here by side. I want you with me for the rest of our lives
together... We'll always be together. Tomorrow and forever."
Nangilid ang mga luha sa kanyang mata. Her eyes were full of happiness that I was
proud to create. Hinawakan niya ang aking magkabilang pisngi at inilapit ang mukha
para halikan ako. Marahan at banayad ang kanyang ibinigay. It delivered a message
on how thankful she was.
"Thank you, Blakey. I don't feel alone anymore. Thank you for saving me from
sadness. Thank you for giving me cakes and toys and for making me smile. You're the
best person in the world. I love you so much!"
Hiyakap niya ko ng mahigpit. I hugged her back. We remained that for a couple of
minutes and it was one of the most relaxing and comfortable thing I had.
Sana ganito nalang kami lagi. Walang iniisip na trabaho, ibang tao o problema. Ang
kaso ay hindi pwede dahil kailangan na naming bumalik at umuwi.
"Kamusta ang byahe niyo, hijo? Mukang pagud na pagod ang asawa mo, ah." Nakangiting
bati sa'min ni Manang pagka pasok ng bahay.
Lee walked straight to our room. Hapon na kami nakauwi. Pagud siya sa biyahe kaya
siguro matutulog na 'yon.
Bitbit ko ang mga maleta namin na kinuha na ni Tammy para i-akyat.
"Okay naman po, Manang. Kayo po dito?"
"Wala mamang bago. Noong umalis kayo ay dumalaw dito si Penelope at si Madame.
Hindi pala nila alam na isinama mo siya't balak nilang samahan dito."
"I didn't inform them..." Sabi ko.
Hindi ko naipaalam sa kanila. Biglaan din kasi ang desisyon kong isama siya.
Nakalimutan ko. I was glad that I did tho. I had the best vacation ever.
Nagising ako nang may marahang humahaplos ng mukha ko. Gumalaw ang mukha ko habang
nakapikit parin. I heard giggles before I felt a kiss on my cheeks.
Kumpleto agad ang araw ko kahit hindi ko pa binubuksan ang aking mga mata.
Pagdilat ko, madilim pa. Bakit madilim pa? Anong oras na ba?
I glanced at the digital clock on the nightstand while hugging my wife tight. The
red light said that it's only 4:30am. Ang aga pa...
This beautiful woman in my arms started wiggling away from me but I just tighten my
hold. Her naked chest pressed skin to skin against mine. Huminto siya at
nakangusong tiningala ako.
"Aren't you still sleepy? Pagod ka pa ba?" Sabi ko sa paos na boses.
Umiling siya. "Do you want to sleep in our room?"
Umiling muli siya. We made love last night and we had our sleep after midnight.
Nandito rin kami sa guest room katabi ng kwarto namin. Ayaw niya sa kwarto namin
dahil nando'n daw si Osi. Sinakyan ko nalang ang gusto niya kaya sa tuwing
magtatalik kami ay dito namin iyon ginagawa.
Binaon ko ang aking mukha sa kanyang leeg. Pinipilit niya talagang itulak ako.
I moved away, enough to look at her and I saw her frowning at me. Para siyang
naiinis. Galit ba siya sa'kin?
"Get off." She glared at me. Pumaibabaw ako sa kanya at tinangka siyang halikan
pero umiwas siya.
"Did I do something wrong? Galit ka ba sa'kin?" Hindi parin siya tumitingin sa'kin.
Nakatingin siya sa kaliwa.
Moving my head closer, I kissed her cheek down to her neck. Umungol siya na parang
naiirita at tinulak na naman ako. Kinuha ko ang mga kamay niya ay pinirmi sa taas
gamit ang aking mga kamay.
"What's the matter? Bakit parang binubugnot ka ngayon?"
She huffed before looking at me. "I don't know. I'm just m-mad." She said frowning.
I smiled with her cuteness and her reason. "Don't worry, cuddle cakes. Aalisin ko
ang galit mo..."
I said seductively before kissing her. Saglit pa siyang umiwas pero nahuli kong
muli ang kanyang mga labi.
My hand moved down to fondle with her breast while the other one kept on
restraining her hands.
Napaungol siya at inilayo ang mukha sa'kin. Bumaba ang halik ko sa leeg niya. I
nipped a little skin that would leave a mark. My hand on her chest moved and
caressed the curve of her body.
Nag-umpisang gumaralgal ang kanyang paghinga habang ako ay nag-uumpisa na ring

makaramdam ng init sa katawan. She's so warm too with her body heat.
My lips caught the beads of her breast, playing and sucking.
"Blakey..." I felt her body succumbed to me so I let her hands go that immediately
brushed my hair.
My soldier started to stand up and march with her moans as the song of our lust.
My mouth grabbed her other erected bead, licking and tasting every inch while my
hand played with the other.
She moaned lowly that got my manhood stood proud and tall.
I moved my hips against her core, teasing her, making her release a shaking
seductive moan. Inulit ko ito at hindi ako magsasawang marinig ng paulit ulit ang
kanyang mga ungol.
My hand reached down. She was wet. I rubbed and flicked her sensitive bud that made
it drench. Halos sabunutan niya na ko at mga kuko niya sa isang kamay ay bumabaon
sa aking balikat. I didn't mind, though. I was busy creating thrilling friction
between us that made her shiver.
Hinalikan ko muli siya at dahan dahan kong pinasok ang aking pagkalalaki. Nang
makakalahati ka ay inilabas ko ito.
She groaned and glared at me in frustration. Napangisi ako ng pilyo. Hindi ko

akalain na ang inosente kong asawa ay magre-react ng ganito.
I'm not sure if I should feel guilty by taking away her innocence or happy because
I get to experience this with her.
I was so caught up on admiring my dear wife that I didn't realize that she was
thinking of something naughty on me.
My chest vibrates as I let out a deep groan as she grabbed my hard rod. I threw my
head back and shut my eyes tightly close as she tried to push it in.
"Ahh... L-Lee... God!"
"Bakit ayaw!?" Naiinis niyang sabi. Hindi niya kasi matutok ng tama.
Pareho kaming nahihirapan. She at aiming and I on how awesome it felt when she
pulled it up and down. She's giving me a hand job without knowing it.
I was throbbing in her hold and as it got bigger and bigger.
Nang hindi ko na kaya ay hinawakan ko ang kamay niya don. Hinihingal akong
napatukod ang noo sa unan.
"You're k-killing me..." Sambit ko sa unan. Damn! I didn't know na ganito siya
mainis.
Naramdaman ko ang paghalik niya sa aking tenga kasabay ng pagbitaw sa'kin. "I'm
sorry."
Ipiniling ko ang ulo ko sa kanya at ngumiti. "Don't be. You have right to do that
to me."
I gave her a chaste kiss before kneeling in from of her. Iniangat ko ang kanyang
mga tuhod at nilapat ang talampakan sa kama. Itinapat ko ang aking pagkalalaki sa
kanyang entrada.
I pushed myself in her slowly. Her mouth slowly formed an 'O' before biting her
lip. Her hot body was covered in sweat and her eyes were covered with pleasure. It
was so sexy and arousing that I couldn't help but to kiss the life out of her.
I started moving slowly at first. Hanggang di ko na nakayanan ang sarap at init

niyang pumapalibot sa'kin.
I quicken the pace. Kapwa kami hinihingal habang nagsasalpukan ang aming mga
katawan. Lumuhod ako at hinawakan ang kanyang mga hita. I lifted her hips a bit and
continued pounding.
"Fvck, wife...ughh.. So tight!" I reached for her bouncing breast and squeezed it
before doing the same to the other.
I pound and pound as hard and fast as I can. Umigiting ang aking panga habang
nanggigigil sa pagbayo.
Palakas ng palakas ang kanyang ungol bago ko maramdaman ang kanyang panginginig.
She's near and I'm not far from her.
Hinimas ko ang tuktok ng kanyang pagkababae ng malapit na siyang labasan. Our

groans and moans blended in the air. She shivered and I let a loud groan as we both
reached our climax, filling her with my hot seeds.
Hinahabol ko ang aking hininga nang bumugsak sa ibabaw niya. Niyakap ko siya at
tumagilid nang hindi inaalis ang pagkalalaki ko sa loob niya.
"That was awesome! I love you, Mrs. Leanna Alcazar." Nakangiti ako kahit na hingal
na hingal.
Sinilip ko siya nang wala siyang nasabi. I kissed the top of her head before
noticing that she fell asleep.
Chapter 25
Author's note: Sorry sa matagal na update. Ito na po. Pinagsama ko na ung part 1
and 2 sa isa kaya mahaba siya.
*****
ISA ISA kong nilagyan ng lettuce leaves ang ibabaw ng apat na tinapay. Sinunod ko
ang ham, bacon, tomatoes at dressings para sa ginagawa kong clubhouse sandwich.
Kanina pa kasi nanghihingi ng pagkain si Lee and I don't want her starving baka
magalit na naman sa'kin 'yon. If she's hungry, she's angry.
Naalala ko kanina kung pa'no siya magdemand ng pagakain. Nakasimangot agad. Hindi
naman ako naasar. Ang cute niya nga eh. Though minsan napapaisip ako.
Madalas ay nakikita ko siyang sinasaktan ang mga stuffed toy niya. Hinahampas,
sinasakal at sinasabunutan. Gusto kong malaman kung sa'n nanggaling ang ugali
niyang 'yon. Masyado akong nababahala kaya pinagmamasdan ko siya lagi.
I had a hitch. Wala akong nakikitang karahasan na pwede niyang makita at makopya.
Pwera nalang kung nararanasan niya. Hindi kaya sa panonood ng TV? Pwede rin naman.
Mukang sa TV niya nakukuha ang mga natutunan niya. Even the word divorce and having
an affair...
Pain pinched my heart when those words triggered a memory.

Napalingon ako sa labas. I swear I heard the doorbell rang. Tinignan ko ulit ang
ginagawa. Tinapos ko muna ito at tinapon ang mga kalat. Lumabas ako para tignan
kung sino 'yon.
Lee was already at the opened door. Her back on me. Makita palang ang likod niya ay
napapangiti na 'ko. She was wearing a black yoga pants, making her curves more
enchanting than it ever was and the most enthralling part was she's in my white
shirt. She's still having troubles with the bottons which I found adorable to tell
you honestly.
"Are you talking to someone by the door, my wife?"
Agad siyang lumingon sa'kin at ngumiti. Nang makita ko ang matamis na ngiting 'yon
ay agad na nawala sa isip ko ang taong nasa kabilang pinto.
She ran toward me and I caught her, lifting her up as she immediately embraced my
hips with her thighs. We engaged into a melting kiss. I always love to kiss her. It
was my favorite drug next to making love with her and that was heavenly awesome.
Dinampian ko pa ng mabilis na halik ang kanyang labi bago tinuro ang nasa pinto.
Agad na nagunot ang aking noo.
Anong ginagawa niya dito?
Nakita ko si Jackie na nakapasok na ng bahay. Tinanong ko siya. Isang simpleng 'hi'

lang ang sagot nito. Binaba ko si Leanna. Ang paningin ko ay hindi parin inaalis sa
bisita.
Nakaasul siyang bistida at naka-heels. It was simple but she was dressed to
impress. Sa totoo lang ay hindi ko gustong andito siya. Hindi ako komportable, lalo
na nang makakita ako ng sakit at pagseselos habang nakatingin sa mga kamay naming
magkasaklop ni Lee.
"I-ah... You forgot this at the office yesterday." Aniya nang tanungin ko siya
muli.
Pinakilala ko si Lee sa kanya. Gaya ng inaasahan ko ay napatago si siya sa aking

likuran. She was gripping my arm while looking at our unexpected visitor. Kumunot
naman ang noo ko nang makita ko si Jackie na parang kakaiba ang tingin sa aking
asawa.
What is with her?
She's making Lee uncomfortable and I don't like it. Bumabalik ang mga ala-ala ng
pagkakamali. Memories I wanted to burry so bad. She needs to go.
Matalino si Jackie. I knew that she knee that she's unwanted here. I'm already
ready to ask her to leave when she asked me for some talk. Kung ako ang papipiliin
ay hindi ako papayag pero nakita ko ang pagkaseryoso sa kanyang mga mata. She
wanted to talk about that.
"Anong pag-uusapan natin?" I asked kahit alam ko na kung ano 'yon.
Tumingin ako sa direksyon ng kusina. Pinapunta ko muna do'n si Lee para kumain.
Ayokong marinig niya kami. Hindi na nga kami nagpunta sa living room dahil mas
malapit 'yon sa kusina. I think I made a mistake to agree.
"You know what? Hindi ko na kayang ipagsawalang bahala ang nangyari, Osias."
"This is not the right time and place."
Umiling siya. "Then when? Alam ko namang umiiwas ka."
"I'm not avoiding. It's nothing for me. Bakit ko pag-aaksayahan ang isang bagay na
walang halaga?" Malamig kong sabi. Gumuhit ang sakit sa mga mata niya na agad ding
nawala.
She composed herself fast like a strong woman she was.
"Siguro para sa'yo wala. But whatever you think, the fact that we had sex
happened."
Kumunot ang noo ko sa nagbabadyang inis. "Don't act like it was your first time.
Pinapababa mo lang ang tingin ko sa'yo dahil sa ginagawa mo. Ang mabuti pa umalis
ka na. Next time we talk, it's all about business."
The tension in her jaw was visible as she held her anger for showing.
"We did mix business with pleasure once."
Umigting ang panga ko. She's a woman but dämn! She's making me want to hurt her.
Dito pa talaga sa bahay ko kung nasa'n ang asawa ko.
"Once and never again."
"Well, sorry to disappoint you, Osias but it would be hard because I think I'm-"
I frowned when stopped and looked behind me. Nang bumaling muli siya sa'kin ay
nawala ang determinansyon na pinapakita niya kanina. She seemed contemplating now.
Nag-iwas siya ng tingin at malalim ang iniisip.
"I think you should go. My wife might be waiting."
She scoffed on the mention of my wife. "Oo nga pala. You have a wife but is she
capable of being one. Sa pagkakakita ko sa kanya, she's nothing but a mere child.
But I'm here, Osias."
I closed the gap between us with a rush. I grabbed her arm and looked at her with
burning hatred.
"Do not disrespect my wife like that! You are here in our house may I remind you.
So don't dare do that again! Kakalimutan kong babae ka. Masaya na kami ng asawa ko.
We're building a family now so leave us alone."
Hinaglit niya ang kanyang braso. Nabitawan ko siya pero hindi ang alab sa tingin
ko.
"Hindi mo pwedeng kalimutan na nagkasala ka. Kahit ilang beses mong tangkaing
umiwas. Alam ko, Osias. Alam kong umiiwas ka." She smirked. "Kaya pala pinili mong
pumunta sa seminar dahil mukang napapainit niya na ang kama mo."
"We have nothing to talk about. It was a mistake and I'm already married so stop
hoping." I gritted my teeth. Pinipilit kong 'wag sumigaw dahil andyan lang si Lee.
"Hindi lang wala 'yon, Osias! Stop saying that!" She said, frustrated.
"I don't wanna hurt my wife. I love her so you better not say ridiculous things
about us!"
The pain and anger she's suppressing quickly showed. Her palm connected with my
cheek. It stung but did not hurt.
"Bad girl!" Ang sigaw ni Lee ang nagpatigil sa'kin sa tangkang pagsasalita.
She charged towards Jackie so fast that I couldn't get time to stop her. She
grabbed her hair. Hinila niya ito at napayuko si Jackie. She kept doing that while
shouting.
"Get off me! Osias!"
"Bad girl ka!"
"Lee, stop it!" I need to stop Leanna. She might get hurt.
"Leanna!"
Mabuti nalang ay tumigil siya. I pulled her away. Nakita kong halos maiyak na siya
habang nanasimangot sa'kin.
It pained me to see that. I shouted at her and I knew that it hurt her feelings.
"Umalis ka na, Jackie." Hindi ko binitawan si Lee kahit kalmado na siya. She fixed
herself before glaring at the both of us then left.
Nang makaalis na siya ay agad kong binitawan si Lee. She's on the verge of crying.
Sinapo ko ang mga pisngi niya.
"Why did you do that?"
I was disappointed. Yes but not on her but to Jackie. How dare she do this to my
wife? Coming here and insulting her. I had respect for her. Naging magkaibigan din
naman kami pero dahil sa ginawa niya, hindi ko siya mapapatawad.
"I'm sorry..." Nagsimula siyang humikbi. Tumindi ang sakit sa puso ko. It was
consuming with guilt.
"I should be the one saying that." Niyakap ko siya ng mahigpit "I'm sorry, Lee. You
don't deserve this but I'm too selfish. Sana 'wag kang magalit sa'kin. I love you."
I love her. I realized that every time I see her smile the moment I got home. Every
time she calls me. Every time she kisses and hugs me. Every time she looks at me
and says how much she loves me.
Every single time.
I will love her for always and I won't let anything or anyone hurt her.
Lagi kong pinababantayan si Lee kayla Manang at Tammy. Ayoko siyang iwanan pero
kailangan kong umalis. Sinusumpong na naman siya.
I didn't want to think about it but what Leanna did with Jackie bothered me. Unang
beses kong makitang umakto siya ng gano'n. Yung tipong nakakasakit na siya.
This couple of days, her temper was a bit out of the edge. Minsan ay nasisigawan
niya na 'ko at lagi kong napapansin ang madalas na pagiging bugnutin.
There's something wrong with her but I didn't know what.
Naulit pa 'yon.
Kanina ay nagpagbuhatan niya ng kamay si Manang Josie. Hindi ko alam kung bakit.
Sumigaw siya habang sinugod ang umiiyak na matanda. Mas lalo akong naawa kay
Manang. Nasa ospital ang kanyang anak tapos nakadagdag pa 'yon sa inaalala niya.
Naalala ko ang sinabi niya sa'kin noon. She had a feeling that Mama Anita was
sometimes hurting her. Nang pumasok 'yon sa aking isip, tinanong ko agad si Leanna.
She said no. Na mabait si Mama Anita. Maniniwala sa'na ako pero nakita ko ang pag-
aalinlangan at nerbyos sa kanya.
She's lying.
That moment, I knew that her mother was abusing her. I didn't push and asked more
tho. Ayoko siyang pilitin.
Inalala ko kung pa'no siya kumilos sa paligid ni Mama. Come to think of it, she
always seemed quiet and elusive. Halos hindi siya nagsasalita. Laging nakayuko at
minsan parang kinakabahan.
There's going on and I need to find out more about this.
Hindi pwedeng basta basta nalang ako mag-akusa.
Should I talk about this with Papa or Mama? Pa'no kung itanggi niya? Kailangan kong
maghanap ng ipapakita sa kanya.
But what if she's not doing it? What about Penelope? May alam ba siya?
I'm still not sure.
A conclusion based on assumption is always doubtful. I need proof and I know the
right person who can give me that.
Pagkaalis ko sa bahay ay tinawagan ko si siya pero hindi ko ito makontak. I don't

have much time. Mamaya ay aalis kami ni Lee papunta sa party ni Penelope. Gusto
kong makausap na siya ngayon para malaman ko na ang lahat.
Hindi na siya makakaiwas gaya noong huli kaming magkita. Terrence will give me
answers even if I have to scare the answers out of him.
"Manang, hindi pa kayo umaalis?" Nadatnan ko si Manang na pababa sa hagdan.

Nakangiti siya. Mukang masaya. Okay na kaya ang anak niya?
"Hindi na 'ko nakaalis. Mamayang madaling araw nalang."
"Madaling araw? Delikado na po no'n. I'll let the driver take you there."
"Sige pero hanggang sa pier nalang. Magbabarko kasi ako..." Her smile didn't waver.
"Is your son okay? You look happy..."
Ilang baitang lang ang pagitan namin. Bumaba siya isang baitang sa aking taas.
"Huwag mong alalahanin ang akin. Ang isipin mo ay ang sa'yo."
She's still smiling as well as her eyes. Napakunot naman ang noo ko sa pagtataka.
Was she pertaining to my problem or...
My phone vibrated. Magtatanong pa sa'na ako nang may magtext sa'kin. It was
Penelope reminding me about the party. May isa pang text galing kay Terrence.
"Mauuna na 'ko, hijo. Pero hindi maganda ang pakiramdan ni Leanna kanina. Mas
mabuting 'wag mo na siyang dalhin sa party."
"She's sick? Why?"
Nag-alala ako sa sinabi niya pero si Manang parang hindi bagkus ay mas ngumiti pa
siya.
"Walang dapat ipag-alala, hijo. Maayos ang lahat."
Nang umalis si Manang ay saka ko binasa ang text ni Terrence.
"Don't bring her to the party. Ipapaliwanag ko ang lahat mamaya."
Anong ibig niyang sabihin dito? Kumunot ang noo ko. Tinawagan ko siya pero hindi na
naman sinagot.
Siguradong nasa party siya mamaya. I'll ask him later. Nangangati na 'ko para sa
mga kasagutan.
I went to our room with eagerness to see my wife. Nakita ko siyang masayang
nakikipaglaro sa kanyang stuffed toy. Agad din akong nakaramdam ng tuwa. Seeing her
smile and happy made me feel the same.
Nang makita niya 'ko ay mabilis siyang yumakap sa'kin. Ang sabi ni Manang masama
ang pakiramdam niya. Mukang hindi naman. She seemed so happy and excited.
"May isang oras pa tayo bago ang party. I'll prepare your clothes." Hinalikan ko
siya sa noo bago ako pumunta sa cabinet.
Nararamdaman ko siya sa likod ko. Dinudungaw ang mga damit na aking kinukuha.
I chose my clothing first before getting the paper bags that had hers.
"I bought this for you yesterday. Ito ang isusuot mo."
Agad na sumilay ang malaking ngiti sa kanya kasabay ng pagkuha ng mga paper bags.
Binuhos niya ito sa kama.
"It's mine?" Mangha niyang sabi.
I nodded. "Mag-ayos ka na, cuddle cakes. We only have thirty minutes before the
party."
Agad naman siyang tumalima. "Thank you, Blakey."
The thought of showering with her invited me. Images of us under the shower burst
in my mind. Naeengganyo ako kaso lang konting oras nalang ang meron kami. The venue
was twenty minutes drive away.
Waiting for her, I remembered the text Terrence sent me.
Bakit kaya ayaw niyang papuntahin do'n si Lee? Should I do what he said? May
kinalaman ba 'to kay mama? Tinawagan ko siya pero hindi niya parin sinasagot kahit
isa do'n.
Mas mabuti siguro kung kasama ko siya. Mas mababantayan ko.
Nagbanyo muna ako saglit. Do'n na ko sa kabilang kwarto. Nagpalit na din ako.
Pagbalik ko ay tapos na si Lee, nakaupo sa kama. Tumayo siya nang makita ako. She
wobbled a bit as she stood up and I immediately went to her, worried.
"Are you fine?" Sinapo ko ang mukha niya. Anong nangyayari? She's not feeling
well... Kaya niya pa kayang umalis?
"Everything spins..." Nakapikit niyang sabi. "May I go to the bathroom first?"
I nodded. "I'll get you some water."
Bumaba ako para kumuha ng tubig. I'm really worried. Baka kailangan niya ng tulong
sa banyo kaya nagmadali ako. She's not yet out of the restroom by the time I got
there. Nilapag ko muna ang baso sa nightstand.
I moved to knock but my phone beeped.
No wait! That's not mine. Sigurado akong kay Lee 'yon.
Agad ko itong nakita sa kama. Sa pagitan ng mga unan. It's like it was hidden. Dyan
ba ang taguan niya ng phone?
Kinuha ko ito at tinignan kung sino ang nagtext.
It was Terrence. There were at least five text notifications and a lot of missed
calls.
Why is he texting her...even calling? Are they text buddies?
Walang lock ang phone kaya madali akong nakapunta sa messages habang nakakunot ang
noo.
Baby doll, are you okay? Bakit di ka nagrereply?
Magkikita tayo sa party mamaya. Excited ka na ba? Ako excited na.
Nagkita kami ng asawa mo, baby doll. I think we need to tell him our secret. Don't
worry. I'll protect you. Hindi ko hahayaang masaktan ka.
What the actual fvck!? Anong sikreto?
Ang dami pa niyang text. Halos lahat ng messages niya kahapon at kanina lang si-
nend. What is the meaning of this? T-ngina! Pati call logs ang dami. Ang haba pa ng
oras ng pag-uusap nila. Ano ba talaga 'to?
Hindi ko na kayang mabasa pa lahat. Umiigting ang panga ko sa bawat mensahe ng

lalaking 'yon. Ang nagpa-init ng ulo ko ay nag-reply si Lee sa mga nauna.
Pinipigilan ko ang galit ko nang lumabas si Leanna. My hand gripped the phone hard.
I felt like exploding right here, right now. I wanted to punch someone. Fvck!
He's calling her baby doll. An endearment! T-ngina talaga!
"Blakey?" I snapped by gaze on her, cold and dark. She stiffened because of that.
"Why are you texting Terrence? Even the calls. Parang mas marami pa nga ang call
logs niya kaysa sa'kin and it says here that you've been talking to him every day.
What is this, Leanna?"
My voice sounded calm but the harshness on every word was obvious.
"I-That's..." She stuttered and looked at the ground. I kept scrolling the
messages.
"Baby doll? He's calling you baby doll!? What the fvck is this?" Naibato ko ang
hawak ko dahil sa galit. Napaatras siya. I saw how scared she was.
Sh-t! I need to calm down pero pa'no kung umiikot sa isip ko ang mga nabasa ko. Ang
mga hinala...mga tanong...
"Are you..." Fvck!
I raked my fingers through my hair with haste. No! Hindi magagawa ni Lee 'yun. She
can't. She's too innocent for that.
I looked at her. Her hands clasped over her chest, trembling. I saw a lone tear
fell down her eye. She's scared. Dammit! What have I done?
I need to calm down but I can't.
"Ang mabuti pa dito ka muna. You're not feeling well. Ako nang bahalang magsabi sa
kanila kung bakit. I'll ask Manang to look after you."
I can't calm down if I'm near her.
There's so many things that's going on right now. Yung pananakit ni Mama Anita. Si
Jackie tapos ngayon itong sa kanila ni Terrence.
Masyadong gumugulo ang isip ko. Hindi ko alam kung anong uunahin.
Dumaan muna ako sa kwarto ni Manang para sabihin na hindi ko isasama si Lee dahil
sa pakiramdam niya. Ang sabi ko bantayan ng mabuti at 'wag tatanggap ng kahit na
sinong bisita.
Nagawa kong hindi ipahalata ang problema. Mabuti naman. Ilang beses akong lumunok
para bumaba ang galit. Umalis ako matapos. Mas mabuting hindi ko na siya isama.
Titignan ko kung ando'n si Terrence. Masinsinan ko siyang kakausapin sa oras na
makita siya. Uuwi agad ako 'pag wala. Maaring puntahan niya ang asawa ko.
Hindi ako papayag.
I might kill that fvcker.
Kinalma ko muna ang sarili bago paandarin ang sasakyan. My hands tightly gripped
the steering while I drove. My jaw kept on clenching. Matalim ang tingin ko sa daan
na parang isang kalaban.
Galit parin ako. Alam kong walang magagawa kung papairalin ko ang galit. I grabbed
the opportunity to calm my self down when the light turned green. Just taking deep
breaths and thinking on what to do next.
I know what to do... Talk to Terrence. 'Pag nakausap ko siya, malalaman ko ang
sagot tungkol sa kanila ni Lee pati narin ang kay Mama Anita.
About Jackie...
Hindi ko siya kayang iwasan dahil magkatrabaho lang kami. Wala rin naman akong
balak iwasan siya. I just hope that she won't bother us again.
Marami nang tao nang makarating ako sa party. Do'n ko naramdaman ang lungkot.
Nagsisisi akong hindi ko sinama si Lee. Papasok na ko nang makatanggap ako ng

tawag. Kunot noo ko itong sinagot.
"We need to talk. Where are you?" My voice cold and with authority.
"Kasama mo ba siya ngayon?"
"Ako ang unang nagtanong, Terrence. I saw your messages on her phone.
We.need.to.talk." Nag-igting ang panga ko.
"Nasa loob ako. Sasabihin ko lahat ng gusto mong malaman mamaya. I'll text you 'pag
nagka oras ako. I need to escort Penelope first."
Matapos ng tawag ay pumasok na 'ko sa loob ng hotel. The place was massive. Ang
daming tao. People in their tuxes and gowns. Sparkling chandeliers, red carpets,
high stage and lots of chairs and round tables.
Ito na ata ang pinaka malaking event na napuntahan ko and it's a twenty fifth
birthday. Mas pinag-aksayahan pa kaysa sa kanyang debut.
Kung sa bagay, ngayon din ia-announce and pagiging San Roman niya. Papa finally
completed her adoption papers. Dapat noon pa. Hindi lang nila makuha ang pirma ng
ama ni Penelope para sa consent.
"Osias, anak!" Palapit sa'kin si mom nang makita ko. She's wearing that warm smile
that I love. Agad na nawala ang pangit na nararamdaman ko. I missed her. I became
okay because of her.
Her arms opened wide for a hug. Lumapit ako at niyakap siya.
"How are you mom?" I asked after giving her a kiss on the cheek.
"You know I'm always fine, my son." Umiwas siya ng tingin at may hinanap sa likod
ko. "You didn't bring your wife? That's new." Sabi niya na parang hindi
makapaniwala.
"She's not feeling well."
"I'm guessing something happened because you will not leave her if she's sick for
some party like this."
Nagtatanong ang mga tingin na binato nito sa'kin. "Nothing, mom. Let's go meet the
celebrant."
I led her to the stage where the celebrant and her family were supposed to sit.
Alam ko gusto niya pang magtanong pero nagpapasalamat ako at hindi niya na 'ko
pinilit para sa mga sagot.
Out sits were also there but just were about to reach it, the emcee announced the
arrival of the celebrant. Lahat ay napatingin sa engrandeng pintuan.
Naunang pumasok si Papa kasama si Mama. Everyone's clapping on their arrival. Naka
tux si Papa at bow tie gaya ko. Si Mama naman ay napaka sopistikada sa kanyang
black dress na hanggang tuhod. May gloves din at itim na sapatos.
And there she was. Pumasok na si Penelope. Malaki ang ngiti niya na naglakad sa red
carpet habang kinukunan sila ng mga photographer. She's wearing a big white and
black floor-length. Hawak niya ang braso ni Stephen na nakaputing tux. She's really
loved being in the spotlight unlike her escort that's a bit uncomfortable.
"They are really enjoying the life of a San Roman." My mom tsked. Kitang kita sa
kanya ang pagkadigusto.
"Penelope made herself famous, mom."
"Nonsense. She's a simple Flores compared to a golden San Roman. Hindi siya sisikat
kung hindi kadikit ng pangalan niya ang mga San Roman. I hate women like them."
Umismid muna siya bago talikuran ang mga ito at umupo sa upuan. Ang aking ina
talaga. Minsan walang filter ang bibig. She'll say what she wants. Does she know
that she shares that same trait with Penelope?
Sinalubong ko pagdating nila. Penelope on the other hand went straight on stage
with Stephen. Ando'n ang upuan nila.
"You look beautiful, ma." Hinalikan ko siya sa pisngi.
"Thank you, Osias."
I turned to him. "Pa, you look great."
"Osias, where's my daughter?" Iyon ang sinagot niya sa'kin.
Pilit akong ngumiti. "She's not feeling well. Pinabantayan ko po kay Manang Josie.
Saglit lang po ako dito. I'll just greet Penelope then I'll leave."
Bakas ang pag-aalala kay Papa. "I'll go with you. I want to check on her."
"Leandro, it's Penelope's birthday and you'll be announcing the great news to the
people. She being your daughter. Let Osias take care of her."
Hindi siya nakasagot. "Don't worry, Pa. Hindi naman 'yon seryoso. She just ate
something bad. That's all."
After that, we went to our seats. Mom stood up to greet them. Kinakamusta nila ang
isa't isa util Penelope was called for her speech.
"Good everning, everyone. Thank you for coming here but first, I want to call on my
Mom and Dad to the stage because this wouldn't be possible without them..."
Her eyes searched here we're sitting. "Mom! Dad!" She called them with big smiles.
Tumayo sila't inalalayan ng Don si Mama habang umaakyat sa stage.
Nagpatuloy ang party matapos ang speech. Bumalik ang pag-iisip ko sa aking asawa na
naiwan sa bahay. Kamusta na kaya siya? Is she still feeling sick?
Masaya ang lahat ng tao at dapat nakikisaya rin ako. Mom was talking to her friends
and her friends' friends. Si Mama at Papa ay nagsasayaw sa dance floor kagaya ni
Penelope at Stephen. Everybody was happy except for me.
Nakikipag-usap ako sa mga kilala kong abogado. Nasa may bandang gilid kami at
nakatayo. There were five of us in a group pero hindi naman ako gano'ng close sa
kanila kahit kilala ko ang mga ito.
"How's the married life, Atty?" Tanong sa'kin ni Atty. Honorio na isang public
service attorney. "Sayang naman at hindi namin nakilala ang asawa ko."
"She's sick." Hindi nila alam na asawa ko ang anak ng isa sa pinakamalaking tao sa
business. Actually, only few had known about that. Her father and I were trying to
conceal her to the prying eyes of the media. As much as possible, ayaw namin siyang
masama sa gulo ng business.
"I heard you were working with Atty. Gradiola, Atty. Alcazar."
"Yes." Simpleng sagot ko kay Atty. Malbal.
I think he's in the same age gap as mine. He's a good looking guy. Kinda lean and
stood tall. Almost as the same height as me. Medyo mahaba ang itim na buhok niya na
hanggang leeg but it was stylish, though. Pushed back and tamed.
"Magka batch kami sa university. She's very good." Hindi ko na siya sinagot at
inabala ang sarili sa pag-inom ng wine. Halata namang may gusto siya sa tinutukoy.
Ilang saglit pa ay parang sila sila na lang ang nag-uusap. I didn't mind anyway.
Napunta ang paningin ko sa gitna kung sa'n may mga nagsasayawan. I wanna leave this
place so I search for Stephen. I'm not sure what I've seen but I think he's a bit
disoriented. Mukha siyang kalmado pero hindi niya 'ko maloloko.
Palingun lingon siya sa paligid na parang may hinahanap. Nagtagpo ang aming
paningin. Mas lalong bumakat ang pag-aalala niya, hindi mapakali. Mukang gusto
niyang puntahan ako pero hindi niya magawa dahil nakikipagsayaw pa siya.
"Atty. Gardiola, what a surprise!" Nahatak ako ng masayang boses ni Atty. Malbal at
napatignin sa kanyang kausap.
She was smiling wide while talking at the men around her.
"Excuse me. I'll go to greet the celebrant." Natigil ang tawanan nila at napatingin
sa'kin.
I knew that Jackie's looking at me but I never paid attention to that. I wanted the
night to end and be with my wife so I left without waiting for their response.
I was going towards Penelope when I saw a familiar woman cleaning a table. Umangat
na ang tingin niya sa'kin bago ako makalapit.
"Ashley?"
"Sir Osias, magandang gabi po."
"Anong ginagawa mo dito?"
Si Ashley ay isa sa mga kasambahay namin. Bakit siya nandito kung dapat ay nasa
bahay siya?
"Hiniram po kaming lahat sa bahay para tumulong dito. Sinundo po kami kanina. Ang
sabi po kasi ni Mada'm Anita kulang daw po ang mga trabahador dito. Dumating siya
kanina sa bahay, sir."
The confusion in her matched mine. Bakit hindi ko alam 'to?
"Nasa'n si Manang Josie?"
"Bumalik po siya kasama si Tammy habang papunta kami dito kasi walang maiiwan kay
Ma'am Leanna."
Hinanap ko si Mama agad. Hindi ko siya makita. May hindi tamang nagyayari dito.
Hindi rin mapakali ang nararamdaman ko.
I saw Terrence heading to my direction with haste. Tama lang ang timing pero bakit
para siyang natataranta?
"Nasa'n si Leanna?"
"None of your concern."
"Hindi ito ang oras para magalit ka sa'kin. We need to go. She's not here."
"Of course she's not here. Nasa bahay siya." Hinilamos niya ang palad sa mukha ng
mabilis. He's frustrated about Lee not being here? Sira ba siya? Nakalimutan niya
ba ung tinext nito sa'kin kanina?
"No. You don't understand. Wala si Mada'm Anita dito. Kailangan nating puntahan si
Leanna. Delikado siya dahil wala dito si Mada'm."
Umalingawngaw ang boses ng emcee sa stage. Napunta do'n ang aking tingin. Nasa
gitna si Mama, Papa at Penelope.
"There is she..." I nodded to the direction of the stage. Napa-awang ng bahagya ang
bibig ni Terrence at nanlaki ang mga mata.
"And because a very special day for Miss Penelope... We prepared a short video
presentation just for her. This video shows how a little adorable kid turned into a
gorgeous successfu lady. Here it is... Let's watch this."
Everybody cheered with excitement as they waited for the video to be played. Mukang
si Penelope ang pinaka-excited. Terrence confused me because unlike everybody, he
looked like he's about to piss on his pants of how scared and pale he had become.
"We need to go... Halika na." hinawakan niya ang braso ko at hinila palabas.
"Teka nga!" I pulled my arm back. "What is going on here? Ipaliwanag mo sa'kin ang
lahat!"
The video played. All attention was on that big screen showing Penelope's happy
childhood including mine.
"If you love your wife, we need to go now!" All seriousness was in his voice.
My mind was screaming to follow him so I did but then, the screen showed something.
Something that earned gasped from almost everybody. Something that made my heart
beat so fast together with mixed emotions.
Something I wish I didn't see.

Tell me what you think... Ang daming revelations, diba?
Wala ngang revelations eh. Marami lang nangyari. Ahaha. Lol.

Special Chapter: The Videos
This special chapter is dedicated to a special person for her special day.
Nagkaroon ng special chapter dahil sa kanya. :)
Happy Birthday atsidasarevir81
"Hi! I'm the pretty Penelope and this is my first TV show. This show is called the
Penelope show."
Natawa ang mga nanonood. Tuwang tuwa sa pagkabibo ng siyam na taong gulang na si
Penelope. Bata lamang siya pero makikita sa itsura niya ang pagiging palaayos. She
had her ponytail up like a cheerleader, lip gloss on her thin lips, blush on, a bit
of mascara and blue eye shadow. She even blew a kiss on the air like a full grown
woman.
Who wouldn't like this girl?
She's bubbly, energetic, pretty, she acts way beyond her age and obviously, she can
attract anyone's attention.
Magulo ang mga sumunod na kuha. Naglalakad siya. She's walking on a pebbled thin
road that led to the back garden. Naging mabulaklak ang paligid pero ni isa do'n ay
wala siyang pinansin.
Dumiretso siya sa isang medyo malaki at makulay na dog house. The focus was then
again turned to her. Malawak ang ngiti niya na parang excited sa gagawin.
"I am going to feed the dog. That's her house. She's a bit shy. Pinaalis ni mommy
lahat ng maids kaya ako ang gagawa. She said it's my responsibility. What a
bummer?"
Natawa na naman sila. Her family, who were also watching knew that place. Ito ay
ang hardin sa mansyon ng mga San Roman. Ang dog house na 'yon ay para sa dalmatian
nila.
Nilapag niya video cam sa gilid ng bintana ng dog house. Kitang kita ang pag-alis
nito. Pumunta sa likod bahay at pagbalik ay may dala nang plato ng pagkain at baso
ng tubig.
It didn't look like a food for a dog. Parang pinaghalu halong kanin at ulam.
Inilapag niya iyon sa sahig, katapat ng pinto.
"Lunch time, you filthy dog!" She said before kicking the closed door.
Everybody laughed including her step father. Her mother was thinking deep about the
familiarity of that scene. Meanwhile, the present Penelope went pale, wanting to
stop everything but she couldn't because that'd make a scene.
There was a gap between the door and the ground. Hindi kasya ang baso kaya ang
naisip ng masayahing si Penelope ay ipasok ito ng pahiga. Sumabaw ito sa kanin.
"Now it fits. I'm a genius!" Pagmamayabang niya.
Napailing ang iba pero bakas parin ang kaaliwan dahil sa mga ngiti.
"Eat up!" Sinipa niya muli ang pinto.
Kataka taka namang walang kahit isang ingay mula sa loob. May aso ba talaga? Mukang
wala naman...
Only few thought about that but everybody was expecting for the dog to react.
Barks, scratches on the plastic walls, a whimper, howl...
Na gumawa ng kung anong ingay pero wala.
Sinipa niya ulit ang dingding bago namewang. Sa wakas may ingay na. Gumagalaw ang
aso base na rin sa kaluskos nito sa loob.
The plastic plate moved. Hinihila papasok.
Some of the audience gasped. Some kept watching. Some were confused and some looked
at the pale and panicking celebrant with questioning eyes.
They were all shocked because they were expecting paws not little fingers.
By the time the second clip started, people were already talking. Pinag-uusapan ang
tungkol sa napanood.
"Oh my God! Look at the screen." May sumigaw sa kung sa'n. Boses ng babae pero
walang nagtangkang alamin kung sino 'yon. They went back from watching a horrifying
moment.
"I want my daddy..." Umiiyak ang isang batang kinakaladkad ng bagong asawa ng
kanyang ama, si Anita.
She tossed the crying kid harshly on the floor. The girl was more or less six years
old. Hindi naman matigil ito sa paghikbi. Namumula na ang kanyang mukha kakaiyak.
Magulo ang buhok at may pasa sa braso.
"Daddy...d-daddy..."
"I said shut up!"
"D-daddy!" Patuloy niyang tinatawag ang kanyang ama kahit alam niyang wala ito
dahil sa isang out of town business trip.
"Tumayo ka diyan!" Sinabunutan niya ito at hinila patayo. She whimpered and cried
louder. Halos mapaos na siya kakasigaw.
Bumakas ang matinding galit sa mukha ni Anita. "Ang sabi ko 'wag kang maingay diba!
Why do you have to be so stupid! Your father left you because he doesn't love you.
No one loves you. Remember that!"
"That's not tru-" Isang nakakabinging sampal ang natanggap niya.

"Stop crying! Brat!" Hawak parin niya ang buhok nito habang sinasampal. "I'll teach
you to be obedient!"
Pinagpatuloy niya ang ginagawa hanggang sa manghina ang kawawang bata. Rinig naman
ang mga tawa ni Penelope sa background na siyang kumukuha ng video.
Anita wanted to run like her daughter after watching the video. Nang tangkain
niyang tumalikod at umalis ay may humawak sa kanyang kamay.
It was her husband.
Hindi naman ito nakatingin sa kanya pero nakaramdam siya ng takot. Tahimik ito pero
Nagbabaga sa sobrang galit ang tingin niya sa screen na handang pumatay ng tao.
Pakiramdam niya ay mababali ang kanyang mga daliri dahil sa higpit ng kapit nito.
Pilit niyang hinihila pero ayaw siyang pakawalan.
Hindi siya pwedeng magsalita dahil alam niyang oras na gawin niya 'yon, baka
mapatay siya nito.
Sobrang kahihiyan niya dahil lahat ng tao ay nakatingin at hinuhusgahan na siya.
Nag-umpisa ang ikatlong palabas. She turned to the side of her daughter. Wala siya.
Hinanap niya ito na patakbong pumupunta sa gilid ng stage kung nasa'n ang mga
technical operator.
"Episode 37 of the Penelope show... Mommy's talking to a doctor so we need to be

quiet, okay? This is entitled I'm a ninja."
Puno ng pag-iingat ang galaw niya. Pumunta siya sa isang pintong bahagyang
nakabukas. The lense focused on the gap.
Ando'n ang isang lalaking natataranta, pabalik balik sa paglalakad, taliwas sa

itsura ni Anita na kalmado habang nakaupo.
"Calm down, Dr. Uytengsu."
"Calm down!? The kid almost died from drowning! Pa'no ko sasabihin kay Leticio
'to?"
"You're his friend and his trusted family doctor. He'll believe you so can you
please stop pacing. Nakakahilo ka."
Tumingin ito sa kanya na parang hindi makapaniwala. "Her vocal chords are damage.
Alam mo ba ang epekto no'n? She can never talk properly without going through
therapy. Pa'no ko 'yon ipapaliwanag?"
"Tell him the truth for God's sake. Sabihin mo nalunod. No can you calm down?"
"Should I also tell him that you tried to kill her? Na baka patay na ang anak niya
kung hindi ako dumating? Yun ba?"
Anita scoffed. "I know you wouldn't do that. 'Pag bumagsak ako, babagsak ka rin."
Natapos ang video clip pero agad na nagsimula ang kasunod.
The camera was focused on Penelope. She was around thirteen or fourteen. Bagbabasa
ng magazine habang nakaunat ang paa at nakasandal sa headboard ng kama.
The door opened and Anita entered.

"Your father is coming next week. We need to clean her up."
Napanguso siya. "But I don't want to bathe her. Why do we always need to keep the
maids away?"
"Para walang makaalam ng ginagawa natin, Pen."
"But moooommm."
"Ngayon lang naman ito, anak. Sige na." Malambing ang boses niya. Ramdam ang
pagmamahal ng isang ina.
Napabuntong hininga na lamang si Penelope at sinunod ang ina pero kinuha niya muna
ung camera.
"Why do you always carry that, Pen?" Nakatutok sa kanya ang camera.
"Because I'll be a celebrity one day and I'm practicing by making videos of
myself."
"Tama 'yan, anak. Do anything you can to reach your goals." Matamis itong ngumiti.
"Of course, mommy. 'Yan ang turo mo sa'kin"
The video didn't stop playing. Naglakad na naman siya papuntang dog house. She
banged the wall multiple times.
"Out dog!"
Lumabas ang isang batang kalunus lunos ang itsura. Her dress was filthy like her
messy hair. Her face, arms and legs were covered in dirt.
Suminghap ang ilang mga nanonood dahil sa awa. That kid looked worst. She's
underweight and malnourished. Not being fed for days.
Her eyes that supposed to be filled with curiosity and adventure was dull and
lifeless. Nanatili siyang nakayuko at halatang walang pakialam sa mga nagaganap o
magaganap.
Nawala ang imahe niya. Naglalakad si Penelope para kunin ang hose na nakalatag sa
gilid. She turned the faucet on.
"Get over here!" she shouted with impatience.
The poor kid's response was slow. "Faster!"
"What is going on? Bakit ang ingay mo?" Mabilis niyang nabaling ang camera sa
kanyang inang dumating.
"She's too slow." Agad na naiinis si Anita.
Tumapat muli ang camera sa batang nakayuko at nanginginig sa takot. Hindi siya
umalis sa kinatatayuan hanggang sa hilain ni Anita ang manggas ng kanyang maruming
damit at nilapit kay Penelope.
She took the hose for herself and pointed it to Leanna's direction before pulling
the sprayer's trigger on. They have tons and tons of imported products for bathing
inside the mansion.
But this was how they always bathe her. No shampoo, no conditioner, no soap, no
bubbles and no body wash.
Chapter 26
Wh-at is this? What am I watching?
Totoo ba ito? It couldn't be... they can't hurt Lee. They won't.
"Let's go, Osias. Kailangan na nating umalis."
Unti unting lumiliit ang tingin ko sa screen hanggang sa mawala ang ito dahil sa
may humahatak sa braso ko. Nagpaanod ako dahil hindi ko alam kung kaya ko 'pag
napanood ko ang lahat.
Tama 'yon kasi hindi 'yon totoo. Lee was hurt...bad... very bad...
I kept thinking what I saw. I tried to erase that in my mind, convincing myself
that maybe it was a dream or some kind of a bad joke. I mean it's her step-mother
and step-sister. They're family...
"That's not t-true..."
Kahit paulit ulit kong isipin na hindi totoo 'yon, paulit ulit ding bumabalik ang
mga napanood ko.
How those two hurt her. How they treat them worst like a dog. Kaya pala... Kaya
pala gano'n si Lee. Dahil sa mga kasamaan nilang dalawa.
Napuno nang galit ang kalooban ko. Naninikip ang dibdib at lalamunan ko. I
continued breathing hard. Nag-iinit ang mga ko.
I didn't know that I could feel so much hatred like this for people. People who I
considered as family.
My wife... My innocent wife.
She's close to a kid. She was a kid when they abused her. Pa'no nila nasikmurang
gawin 'yon sa kanya. For so many years... It's too much.
Bawat naalala ko ay parang tinatarak ng punyal ang puso ko. Masakit. Mahapdi.
My mind went back to reality with a sound of opened car door but the pain still
kept on drilling in my heart.
Nang mapatingin ako sa kaliwa ay nakita ko si Terrence na binubuksan ang ignition

ng sasakyan.
I looked around. How and when did I get inside this car?
He started driving. Mukha siyang nagmamadali pero nang makilala ko siya ay bumalik
ang mga imageng hinihiling kong sana ay hindi ko na nakita.
"Turn around." Sumasabay sa lamig ng panahon ang boses ko. Malakas ang mga patak ng
ulan sa labas.
"Hindi pwede, Osias. Kailangan na nating puntahan si Leanna." Sumulyap siya sa'kin.
"Turn around. I need to talk to them!"

"Makinig ka, nakita ko ang mga maids niyo do'n. Pinapaalis lahat sila ni Madame
'pag sinasaktan niya si Leanna. Alam ko gusto mo silang harapin pero kailangan muna
nating unahin ang asawa mo. Kinakabahan ako, Osias. Hindi maganda ang pakiramdam
ko. I think she's in danger."
She's in danger? Again? No! Hindi pwede. Hindi ko alam kung kakayanin ko pa.
"Drive faster!" Sa galit ko ay nahampas ko ng malakas ang dashboard.
Pinaharurot niya ang sasakyan. Mukang magsusugat pa ang labi ko dahil sa

panggigigil. I saw him flinched. I couldn't control my feelings.
I don't even know what I feel. Halu halo na. Naiinis ako at nag-iinit ang gilid ng
aking mga mata kasabay ng pagsikip ng aking dibdib. I'm mad. Pretty mad but every
time I get reminded of why is that, I feel like I just wanna cry.
Nasa militar ako noon. Isang araw noong nagpapahinga kami sa isang bayan sa
Mindanao, may isang babaeng sibilyan ang nagtanong sa'kin kung nakapatay na 'ko ng
tao.
I never thought that somewhere in my whole life that someone might ask that.
Imagine what I felt that time. It was like asking a butcher if he ever killed a
pig.
That time, instead of saying yes, I smiled faintly, turned around so that she
wouldn't see tears fall from my eyes.
Kung tatanungin ako kung gusto kong pumatay, hindi ang sagot pero kailangan.
These memories made my vision blur. Pinasadahan ko ng palad ang mukha ko bago
punasan ang mga takas na luha.
Akala ko 'yon na ang pinakamasakit na tanong na pwede kong marinig, hindi pala.
The most painful question is what was your wife doing when you're away...
I'd like to say na nanonood lang siya ng kung anong koreanovela o kaya naman
nakikipaglaro sa aso namin... Pero bakit gano'n ang nangyari?
I wouldn't be able to have the guts to say that my wife was locked in a small,
dirty doghouse... Abused, malnourished and broken.
Anong klaseng asawa ba ko!?
Worthless. That's for sure.
My heels were bobbing up and down fast. Kinakabahan ako. I wanted to be there now.
Sana hindi nalang ako umalis. Sana sinama ko nalang siya.
Natataranta na ko sa isang bagay na hindi ko alam. Why am I feeling this? Gusto

kong makita si Lee. I know that I'll feel better once I see her.
Nagbalik na naman ang alala ko sa mga napanood namin kanina.
"Those v-videos... How c-could they do that to her?" Nanginginig ang boses ko at
hindi ito dahil sa lamig ng aircon o malakas na ulan sa labas.
"Ako nagpalabas no'n..." Napabaling ako kay Terrence agad. Pati paggalaw ng paa ko
natigil.
"You knew?" Saglit niya kong tinignan bago tumango, ang mga mata'y nasa daan.
Lumamlam ang mga mata niyang malungkot mula sa kanina'y seryoso habang kunot ang
noo.
"Aksidente ko siyang nakita noon nang dinalaw ko si Penelope. It was two years ago.
Puro sugat siya at pasa. Nakakaawa talaga... Kapag naaalala ko 'yon..." He paused.
I saw his eyes glisten with unshed tears while gulping.
"Did Penelope hurt her that time?"
Umawang ang bibig niya. Kumunot ang noo ko. "N-No... Kagagawan lahat ng mama niya.
She knows but she doesn't have the courage to tell anyone. Pati siya natatakot sa
mama niya."
"Ikaw? Bakit hindi mo sinabi noon pa!?"
"Pinagbantaan din ako ng mama niya. I have a simple family. I was just a student.
Anong laban ko sa isang San Roman?"
"Pero hindi mo parin siya tinulungan!"
"Ginawa ko!" Pasigaw niyang sabi. "Med student ako. Nag part time ako sa hospital
at naging assistant ng isang PT. Pag bakante, nag-o-observe ako sa speech therapy
sessions. Lahat ng nalalaman ko do'n ginagawa ko kay Leanna para maayos ang
pagsasalita niya. At least ako may nagawa. Ikaw? Asawa mo siya pero hindi mo alam
na iniiwan mo siya sa taong sinasaktan siya. Wala ka man lang napansin!"
Imbes na magalit ako ay parang isang suntok ang ginawa niya para magising ako sa
katotohanang wala akong nagawa. Napayuko ako at napasabunot.
He was right. Mas may silbi pa siya sa'kin.
"S-Shit." Napatingin ako sa kanya bago sa harap kung san siya nakatingin.
Nakita ko si Manang Josie na papalabas. Mukang natataranta at hindi mapakali.

Sumisigaw siya bago bumalik sa loob, hindi alintana ang malakas na ulan.
I didn't wait for him to park the car properly. Binuksan ko agad ang pinto at
bumaba. Yumakap sa'kin ang lamig at ulan.
Tumakbo ako papasok. Nakasalubong ko si Manang at hinawakan siya sa mga balikat.

Umiiyak siya habang kapwa kami basang basa.
"Hijo, D-Diyos ko... Ang a-asawa mo..."
"Where is she?" Binitawa ko siya at inakyat ang kwarto namin. "Lee? Lee!? Nasa'n
ka!?"
Hindi ko siya nakita. Bumaba agad ako at nakita ko si Terrence na nagmula sa

direksyon ng salas, bitbit ang walang malay na si Tammy bago dahan dahang nilalagay
sa sofa.
"Osias, hindi k-ko alam k-kung nasa'n siya. May mga lalaking dumating tapos gusto
nila siyang kunin. H-Hijo... Kailangan n-natin siyang m-makita. Nahulog siya sa h-
hagdan... B-Buntis siya, hijo..."
I haven't fully absorbed what Manang was saying when Terrence shouted my name.
"Tignan mo 'to." Tinignan ko ang tinuturo niya sa sahig. Alam ko kung ano 'yon.
Blood.
Kumalabog nang husto ang puso ko. Hindi lang isang patak. Marami 'yon.
Para akong nawala sa sarili. Tumakbo ako sa labas. Diretso sa kalsada. Narinig ko
pa ang sigaw ni Manang.
"Lee! Leanna! Please!" Para akong baliw na sigaw ng sigaw habang tumatakbo sa
ilalim ng malakas na ulan.
Please... I need to see her. Help me, please...
Palingon lingon ako sa paligid. Andito lang siya alam ko. Kung maghahanap ako ng
mabuti, makikita ko siya.
Ilang minuto ang lumipas, bigo parin ako. Napasabunot ako sa buhok habang nililibot
ang paningin sa buong lugar. Tinatangay ng ulan ang mga luha ko.
Napaluhod ako at umiyak. I cried like a kid under the rain.
Ang gusto ko lang ay makita siya. Ung madatnan ko siya sa bahay na nagpapahinga.
Tama! Baka nasa bahay lang siya. Baka nasa ibang kwarto. Tama! Nando'n lang siya...
When people are desperate, they believe the dream they create... then comes the
time reality to slap them-me.
She's still not there. May kausap si Terrence sa cellphone, si Manang umiiyak,
nakaupo sa sofa habang si Tammy wala paring malay.
"I can't find her..." Bigo kong sabi.
"B-buntis siya, O-Osias... Hanapin mo siya." Humagulgol si Manang.
B-buntis? Buntis siya...
Hindi na ko makagalaw dahil sa nalaman. Ewan ko. Hindi ko na alam ang nangyayari...
Imbes na masaya ako, bakit parang mas nadurog ang puso ko?
"Tinawagan ko na ang mga pulis."
Napasandal ako sa gilid ng pintuan at napayuko. Pulis? Ayoko silang hintayin pero
wala akong magagawa kundi 'yon. Hindi ko siya magawang makita. Ako na asawa at
isang dating sundalo.
How can someone be cruel to her? She's an angel. Bakit gano'n?
Napatuwid ako ng tayo at lumabas muli. Alam ko na kung nasa'n siya. Dumiretso ako
sa garden tapos huminto sa tapat ng dog house.
Nanginginig ang kamay ko habang binubuksan ang pinto. Sumilip ako.
"Lee!"
Inaalog ko ang binti niya. 'Yon lang ang abot ko dahil nakadandal siya at walang
malay. She's cold and wet and I need to take her out of here fast. I stopped when I
smelt something weird but familiar. Inamoy ko ang aking kamay.
Blood.
"Lee! Oh God... No! Fvck... Leanna, wake up."
Pilit kong inaabot ang mukha niya. I don't have a choice but to pull her legs out
of the doghouse. Agad ko siyang binuhat at sinigaw ang pangalan ni Terrence.
Nanlaki ang mga mata niya pagkakita sa'min.
"Open the car!"
Tumalima siya at pinatunog ang sasakyan. Binuksan niya ang pinto ng backseat at
pinasok ko agad si Lee bago ako.
I placed her on my lap and looked at her before hugging her tight.
Puno ng dugo ang skirt at mga binti niya. She's pregant...
"Please... Save them, please." Pinaghahalikan ko ang buong mukha niya. "Hold on,
cuddle cakes. Please..."
Dinala agad siya sa ER pagkadating namin sa ospital. I was pushed back by the
nurses when I tried to go in kaya ngayon ay hindi ako mapakali kakahintay dito sa
labas.
My head was on my palms, elbows resting on each of my knees. Nagdadasal na sana

maayos silang dalawa. Natuyuan na ko ng damit sa tagal kong naghintay. Ayokong
magpalit. Katabi ko ang paper bag na may laman na damit, dala ng aking ina kanina.
Terrence left with her to get us some food. Pinakiusapan ko rin siya na tawagan si
Papa. Wala akong lakas ng loob na mismong magsabi.
I felt someone touched my shoulder. Napapitlag ako at napatingin sa kanya.
"Everything will be fine..."
"Anong ginagawa mo dito?"
"I'm hear for you. Alam kong kailangan mo ng masasandalan."
"I'm fine, Jackie. Pwede ka nang umalis." Malamig kong sabi.
Umayos ako ng upo para matanggal ang hawak niya sa'kin. I don't want her here and
she got that based on the hurt I see in her eyes.
She was about to say something when the doctor came.
"Doc, kamusta na sila?" Nagmamadali kong tanong.
Tinanggal niya ang takip sa bibig bago malungkot na tumingin sa'kin. "She's okay.
Ililipat na siya sa recovery room maya maya but we lost the baby."
"What?"
"I'm sorry, Mr. Alcazar." Aniya bago umalis. It took me awhile before absorbing
everything. I mean he's a doctor. He can save them both.
"W-Wait, doc! That c-can't be..." Nakaalis na ang doktor.

Napasandal ako sa pader at napadausdos ng upo. We lost the baby... Ang panganay
ko...
Dead.
Napahilamos ako sa mukha ay napaigting ang panga para pigilan ang mga luha. Hindi
ko kaya kaya hinayaan ko ang sariling umiyak.
"Osias..."
I know and lost him on the same day.
Why is God doing this to me?
"It's okay..."
What's okay? I scowled and looked sharply at her who's now kneeling in front of me.
Hindi ko siya pinansin pero nainis ko nang paulit ulit niyang sinasabing okay lang
ang lahat habang hinahaplos ang braso ko.
"Okay!? Namatayan kami ng anak tapos sasabihin mong okay lang!? Umalis ka nga sa
harap ko!"
"Hindi ka naman tuluyang namatayan ng anak, Osias... You still have ours."
"A-Ano?" Halos pabulong kong sabi.
"That's right, Osias. I'm pregnant."
No. That can't be. No.
Kay Lee lang ako pwedeng magkaanak. Kami ang may anak. Hindi pwede. Walang
katotohanan 'yan.
"Y-You're l-lying..."
"Osias!" Kapwa kami napatayo ng marinig ko ang boses ni Papa. It was calm but dark
same as the look he's giving us.
"I'll see you at my house."
"P-Papa-"
"Bring her."
Chapter 27
Mahigpit ang hawak ko sa kamay niya habang nakatingin sa payapa niyang mukha.
She's still as beautiful as ever kahit na medyo maputla at may tubo sa bibig. Ang
buhok niya maayos kasi lagi kong hinahaplos. Halos ako lagi ang nag-aayos ng buhok
niya simula noong ikasal kami.
It's been three days since that dreadful day happened and I couldn't but to blame
myself for that.
Dapat hindi ko siya iniwan. Dapat hindi ko inuna ang galit at sinama siya. Wala na
sana siya dito. Nagsasaya sana kami at hindi ako nagluluksa nang mag-isa sa
pagkawala ng anak namin.
Bumukas ang pinto at dumating ang dalawang nurse na kinuha ni Papa para bantayang
mabuti ang kalagayan ni Lee.
I clenched my jaw and hastily wiped away the lone tear.
"Babalik ako, cuddle cakes. Kakausapin ko lang si Papa, okay?" I stood up and
kissed her forehead.
Sana gising ka na 'pag balik ko.
Nagbilin ako bago umalis. Hindi na 'ko umuwi para magpalit kaya naka polo at jeans
ako. I turned on my phone because Jackie kept on calling and texting me since the
last time we met. I hate that woman. Kung dati nagagawa ko pa siyang kausapin ng
matino, ngayon hindi na dahil agad na nakakaramdam ako ng galit. Pinagtabuyan ko
siya no'ng gabing 'yon at wala akong pake kung napahiya siya. I don't want to see
her or be near her.
Sunud sunod ang notification at message preview ang dumating.
Bakit gusto tayong makausap ni chairman?
Pinag forced leave ako dito sa office, Osias. I don't have any idea why.
Answer my calls, please. Kahit text lang. I need to talk to you.
What about our baby?
Pinasadahan ko lang ang mga 'yon pero may isang nakakuha ng atensyon ko.
Baby...
Anak lang namin ni Leanna ang nasa isip ko. Hindi ko matanggap na nagbunga ang
pagkakamaling 'yon. Ayokong tanggapin.
Isa pa, hindi pa 'ko nakakasiguro. She might be lying but then, why would she lie?
I don't care yet. Ang asawa ko ang priority ko.
Ngayong araw ako pinapapunta ni Papa sa mansion nila. Alam ko kung anong pag-
uusapan namin. Dad haven't talked to me yet. I know that he's really disappointed
and mad. Handa kong tanggapin lahat ng parusa niya. Gagawin ko lahat para mapatawad
nila lalo na ni Lee.
What happened shocked the entire country. Imposibleng takpan ang mga nangyari noong
gabing 'yon kaya nalaman ng buong Pilipinas.
Mama- I mean Anita and Penelope couldn't go out of their house. Hindi ko na matawag
na mama after what they did.
Sa sobrang kahihiyan nila ay di sila makalabas at pati narin dahil bantay sarado
ang mga reporters sa labas ng kanilang bahay at kumpanya.
I was gonna go straight to his office pero hinarangan ako ng punong katiwala do'n,
si Manang Rosa sa bahay. Papa gave a specific order that I could only go in if I
was with Jackie that why I had no choice but to wait for her in the living room.
Nang dumating siya ay agad akong tumayo. Bumaling ako kay Manang Rosa na hinatid
siya.
"Can we go now, Manang?" She nodded before leading us upstairs.
Alam ko naman ang daan at ang office ni Papa pero sinamahan niya parin kami. Habang
naglalakad ay pinipigil ko ang sariling 'wag pansinin ang kasama ko. She called me
twice but I just didn't have it in myself to notice her or her presence. Napilitan
lang akong humarap sa kanya nang humawak siya sa braso ko pagkahinto namin sa tapat
ng opisina.
"Osias, alam mo ba kung anong sasabihin sa'tin?"
"No." I took her hands off me and my eyes off her. Pain registered in her eyes.
Nasaktan siya? Wala 'yan sa naranasan ng asawa ko.
"Hindi ba si Leanna ung nasa video? What's her connection to chairman?"
"I know you're not dumb so stop asking." Malamig kong sabi bago ko maramdaman ang
paglayo niya ng bahagya.
"Osias, anak!' Papasok na kami nang may tumawag sa'kin.
I looked at my side to see mom walking fast and wearing a worried look at me.
"Mom, anong ginawa mo dito?"
"Leandro called me. He told me what he's going to say that's why I rushed here."
I sighed. "Mom, it's going to be alright." Mas lalong lumungkot ang mukha niya sa
pag-alala. Natanggal ang tingin niya sa'kin at lumipat kay Jackie.
"So this is her. The woman who made everything worst." Matalim ang tingin niya dito
pero hindi ito ininda ni Jackie.
"Good morning po, ma'am. I'm-"
"Hindi ko gustong makilala ka." Mataray nitong sabi. "Hindi mo alam ang perwisyong
ginawa mong babae ka." Napayuko na lamang si Jackie. Mom scowled at her before
Manang Rosa spoke.
"Hinihintay na po kayo ni Don Leandro." Aniya.
"I'll go with you, Osias."
"It's okay, mom. Kaya ko na 'to."
"I know but I wanna be there. You need me there."
I sighed before saying okay. Sumama siya sa'min sa loob. I let her enter first.
Agad akong nagtaka pagkapasok. I thought that it's only the three of us inside. I
didn't expect to see Anita and Penelope be sitting on the sofa beside each other.
Neither Terrence-who was sitting beside Penelope.
Nag-alala naman ako nang makita si Atty. Diliman na personal lawyer ni Papa at
dalawang bodyguards na nakabarong. Naka-upo sa katapat na sofa si Atty. Diliman
habang ang dalawa naman ay nakatayo sa magkabilang giling ng lamesa ni Papa.
Tahimik ang buong lugar. Everyone can feel the tension and can see the obvious
elephant in the room. It was very quiet and gloomy. My eyes landed on the man
looking outside through the window with his arms clasped behind him.
"Andito na po sila, Don Leandro."
"Salamat Rosa, pwede kanang lumabas at gawin ang inutos ko kanina." Nagkatinginan
kami ni Penelope. She smiled sadly at me. Hindi ko ito sinagot.
Ilang sandali ang lumipas bago lumingon si Papa sa'min.
"What are you doing here, Bettina?"
"Alam mong hindi kita mapipigilan so it doesn't matter if I'm here or not." Tumango
na lamang si Papa.
Atty. Diliman made stood up to made the three of us sit. Umupo naman si Papa sa
pang-isahang sofa sa gitna. Sa kaliwa ko si Mom at kanan si Jackie. Katapat ko sa
upuan si Penelope. Nasa kanan niya si Anita at kaliwa ang kasintahang nakayuko.
Ang lambot ng upuan pero ang bigat naman ng tensyon sa paligid. Kaming anim na
nakaupo ay parang mga hahatulan at si Papa ang judge. Hindi ako kinakabahan sa
korte pero iba ito. Ibang iba.
"H-Honey-"
"No one will talk until I say so." Ang malamig at mariing utos ni Papa ang
nagpayuko kay Anita. Penelope comforted her mom immediately.
"So let's start..."
Napahugot ako ng hininga sa tatlong salitang 'yon. Kinakabahan ako. Lahat kaming
nandito maliban kay mom ay malaki ang papel sa nangyari.
Atty. handed him a newspaper before he tossed it on the glads table in front of us.
"Have you all read the news today? It says there that the treasure of jewelry
empire had been treated as a worthless stone. Now I wanna know how it all happened.
Hindi natin kasama si Dr. Marco Uytengsu dahil inaayos niya ang propesyon niyang
sirang sira na. I'm not even sure if he's worth calling a doctor. There's only one
rule here. I ask a question and no one is allowed to talk until I say so. My
daughter Leanna is in the hospital because the five of you. I've been keeping my
anger for days now so don't try and test my patience."
Base sa balitang natanggap ko kay mom, binawi ni Papa lahat ng shares niya sa
ospital ni Dr. Uytengsu. Pabagsak na iyon dahil do'n.
The look on Anita's face said otherwise but kept her to herself upon hearing Papa's
warning. Napasinghap naman si Jackie sa tabi ko. Sa palagay ko naliwanagan na siya
kung sino talaga si Lee.
Mom tapped my thigh and smiled to reassure her that I was fine. Alam niya kasing
hindi na 'ko nagbabasa ng dyaryo o nanonood ng balita. All they ever broadcast were
updates about my wife. I just couldn't have that everyday.
"You're Terrence, right?" Si Terrence na kanina pa nakayuko ay biglang napaangat ng

tingin.
He looked tensed and scared. He rubbed his hands together making his nervousness
visible.
"Y-Yes, sir..." Aniya at napalunok.
"Anong kinalaman mo sa anak ko?"
He stilled. Pinasadahan niya 'ko ng tingin bago sumagot. "I'm her theraphist, s-
sir."
"Therapist? On what?"
"I-ah... I help her with her speech and physical mobility. I met her two years ago
and she was really not in a g-good state."
"Can you be more specific, Terrence?" Tanong ni Atty. Diliman. Papa sat back on the
chair, fingers on his right temple.
Nagsimulang magkwento si Terrence. Nag-igting ang panga niya at madilim ang tingin
ni Papa sa sahig habang nakikinig.
Narinig ko na 'to. He told me the some things when we were in the hospital. Kung
pa'no niya nakita si Lee sa kanyang kwarto na puno ng sugat at pasa. Kung pa'no
siya manginig na parang pusa nang unang makita si Terrece hanggang sa paglabas niya
ng mga video.
"I always ask Penelope if I could visit her. 'Pag dumadalaw ako, idinadaan ko siya
sa speech therapy at minamasahe ang katawan niya. Mahina rin kasi ang reflex at
pangangatawan."
"Where did you get the videos?" Si Atty na ang nagtatanong lagi. Sila lang ang
nagsasalita at kami ay nakikinig lang. Pinipigilan ko ang sariling 'wag maramdaman
ang sakit pero imposible. Bumabalik silang lahat sa bawat kwento niya.
"The videos... I copied them from Penelope's laptop nang manghiram ako."
"We appreciate what you did. It made us see the truth but it was scandalous,
Terrence. You ruined and humiliated not only Don Leandro's daughter but also the
name San Roman. Why didn't you talk directly to Don Leandro?"
"P-Pasensya na po. Nalaman ko po kasing aalis siya ng bansa pagkatapos ng party at

matatagalan. Tinangka kong kausapin siya pero hindi ko siya matyempuhan. I thought
I was losing time and that was my last minute resort. Hindi ko po naisip na gano'n
kalaki ang epekto."
"Ignorance is not an excuse. There's still some other way without broadcasting it
in the whole country or rather the world. Alam nating kilala sa buong bansa ang San
Roman. You might be sued for defamation."
Biglang namutla si Terrence. "P-Please naman po. Nag-aaral pa lang ako para sa
kinabukasan ng pamilya ko. Ang naisip ko lang naman noon ay matulungan si Leanna.
'Yon lang po. Hindi ko ginustong mapahiya sila."
Halos maluha na siya sa takot at kaba sa kinauupuan. Hindi mapakali. Penelope held
his hand and squeezed it tight. Sumaglit lang ang tingin ni Terrence do'n bago
yumuko.
"I will not send you to jail if you answer my next question properly." Biglang sabi
ni Papa. Napatingin muli sa kanya si Terrence. "Did you saw Anita hurt her?"
Kumunot ang mukha ni Anita.
"O-opo."
"How about my step-daughter?" Hindi siya agad nakasagot. He looked at Penelope
who's also looking at him. I was looking at the two of them. They were like
communicating. Terrence was like contemplating and in deep thought.
"Terrence...Don Leandro asked you a question." Narinig kong sabi ni Atty. He gave
Penelope one last look.
"H-Hindi po. Siya nga sa katunayan ang nagsabi sa'kin ng buong nangyayari. Penelope
asked me to help her sister. Hindi ko nga lang siya nasabihan sa party ng ginawa
ko. Si Madam lang po talaga." Anita took in a breath and glared at Terrence who
stilled. Kitang kita ang pagkainis sa itsura niya.
Napatingin ako kay Attorney at gano'n din siya sa'kin. Pareho kami ng iniisip. I
turned my eyes back to Penelope. She looked sad and sorry.
"May I remind you, Terrence that all you say here will determine your outcome so
it's really important that you tell the truth."
"She's telling the truth attorney." Pagsingit ni Penelope. "Sinabihan ko siyang

tulungan si Leanna. I bring him twice a month for my sister's check-up and session.
I always leave them alone in her room while I make sure to keep mom away from them.
You can ask Osias to testify. Nahuli niya si Terrence no'n habang nasa therapy si
Leanna. He even punched Terrence."
Bumaling naman sa'kin si Papa at attorney. I placed my elbows on knees."Totoo ba

'yon, Osias?"
"Yes, papa pero hindi ko sigurado kung speech therapy nga 'yon. They were finished
when I got there. Nagalit ako dahil nakita kong pagud na pagod si Lee. Halos hindi
makagalaw at masakit ang lalamunan."
"Resulta 'yon ng therapy." He said. "I need to push her to her limit for fast
improvement."
Tumango tango si Papa bago sumenyas kay Atty. Diliman.
"Are you willing to repeat all you said and testify against Mrs. Anita San Roman?"
Dito na napatayo si Anita. Lumuhod siya sa harap ni Papa at hinawakan ang kamay
nito. "H-honey naman... We don't need to do that. We can fix this..."
Ang pagsusumamo niya ay sinuklian ng matalim na tingin. Hinawi ni Papa ang kamay
niya. She gasped and Penelope went and touched her shoulders for support.
"Bumalik ka sa upuan mo. You think that you could run away from this by escaping
the house last night? Ang akala mo ba hindi ko alam 'yon? I will make sure that you
will go to jail with that cursed doctor Marco."
Galit na galit si Papa. Nakakuyom na mga palad niya at matalim kaming tinignan isa-
isa.
"I know what you feel but you need to calm down, Leandro." Malumanay na sabi ni
Mom.
"No one can know what I really feel, Bettina dahil hindi sa inyo nangyari 'to. In
fact, your fvcking son is part of this."
I avoided my gaze from him. Napabuntong hininga na lamang si mom at pilit akong
nginitian. Mas lalo akong kinain ng guilt.
"Daddy, please do this to mom. I know what she did was cruel but can you please
forgive her. Please, dad..."
Papa stood up and scoffed. Mabilis na tumayo din ang mag-ina sa pagkakaluhod.
"And why would I spare anyone who hurt my daughter!?" Asik ni Papa.
"Because you love her, dad."
He scowled. "Love? Don't say nonsense. I married her for my daughter. Pinulot ko
kayo sa kung sa'n man kayo galing tapos ito ang igaganti niyo?"
Napangsinghap ang dalawa sa gulat at parang hihimatayin naman si Anita. Napasandal

siya kay Penelope habang nakahawak sa dibdib.
"Mom, are you okay?"
"All I had for you was respect but not anymore."
Umiling iling si Anita. Hinawakan niya muli sa braso si Papa. "That's not true, h-
honey. This is all a joke. I'm sorry. I can fix this."
She forced a smile. Nakita ko ang pagdaan ng sobrang galit kay Papa. He raised his
hand and I stood up.
Napatayo rin ang iba nang malakas niyang sampalin si Anita. Napatili si Penelope at
dinaluyan ang inang napaupo sa sahig.
"Leandro!" Mom gasped.
Jackie suddenly held my arm, standing beside me. Napatingin ako do'n at sa kanya.
She looked nervous while looking at the angry man. Ngayon niya lang rin nakitang
galit ang chairman ng kumpanya gaya ko. Mabait si Papa pero ngayon, para siyang
leon na handang umatake.
Namumula ang leeg nito at halata ang ugat sa kanyang sintido dahil sa sobrang
emosyon. Ang mga matang nanlilisik at mga kamaong nagpipigil ng galit.
"Do you think it's a joke to hurt my daughter!? To hurt her? Make her cry? Ang
lakas pa ng loob mong ngumiti! How dare you!? Sisiguraduhin kong makukulong ka!"
"Mom, are you okay?" Naluluha niyang tanong sa tulalang ina.
Lumapit na si Atty at mga bodyguards sa kanila para pakalmahin si Papa pero hindi
nawala ang talim na tingin nito sa dalawa. Hinawi niya lang ang mga kamay nila.
Terrence went to help the two stand up.
Hindi pa tuluyang nakakatayo ito nang higlatin ni Papa ang braso ni Anita. Tuluyang
tumulo ang luha niya. Napapaatras si Penelope na alalang alala sa ina. Terrence
held her shoulders.
Hindi ko na kayang tumingin kaya nagawa kong magsalita.
"Papa, tama na-"
"Isa ka pa!" Marahas niya itong binitawan. Unatras ako at bahagyang tinaas ang mga
kamay nang damputin niya ang bonsai sa lamesa. Binato niya ito sa'kin. Nakailag
ako. Ang maliit na paso ay nabasag nang malakas na tumama sa pader.
"Oh my God, Leandro!" Mom went in between us.
"You are you to tell me to stop!? You cheated on my daughter with that whöre!
Binuntis mo pa! Tarantadö ka!"
"I'm sorry, sir. I swear I didn't know who she is." I wanted to curse loud when
Jackie talked. Bakit pa siya nagsalita ng gano'n? Pinalala niya lahat! Dämn it!
"In the first place, inisip mo sana na may asawa na siya! Hindi ka na sana lumandi
and now you're carrying a bastard child! Kinawawa niyong lahat ang anak ko!"
And dalawang tauhan niya ay pareho nang humawak sa kanyang braso para pigilan siya.
Jackie sat back down and cried with her hands covering her face. Penelope and her
mom was also crying.
Biglang bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Manang Rosa.
Ano to? Bakit may kasama siyang apat na pulis?
"Honey, a-ano 'to? Why are they h-here?"
"Attorney!" Tumango si Atty. May kinuha siyang papeles sa study table na ibinigay
kay Anita.
"Please sign this annulment papers, Madam..."
Nanlaki ang mga mata niya sa gulat at namutla. Nagmakaawa siya kay Papa na 'wag
gawin 'to pero hindi nagpatinag ang huli. Nagtangka siyang lapitan ito pero
humarang ang mga body guards. Wala siyang nagawa kung hindi ang pirmahan 'yon.
"Take her!" Sumunod and dalawang pulis at dinala ang umiiyak na ginang.
She still kept on apologizing as well as Penelope. Nagpupumiglas hanggang sa

mailabas siya. Sumunod naman agad si Penelope at Terrence.
She got what she deserve and I think it's my turn...
"Mr. Alcazar, pakipirmahan po ang isa dito."
"Wala akong pipirmahan." Matigas kong sabi.
I looked at Papa who was now sitting at the back of his desk, intently looking at
me. Napahilamos ako ng mukha at umupo sa sofa.
"Be thankful that I'm making you choose. Sign the annulment papers and leave my
daughter or sign the testament of your confession of you cheating. Kung ayaw mong
makulong, pirmahan mo ang annulment papers. If not, you'll be send to jail with
your mistress. I'll make sure na wala na kayong kinabukasan sa pagiging abogado at
masisilayan mo ang bastardo mong anak sa kulungan."
"Papa, I know I made a mistake but please... I don't want to be separated from Lee.
I love her and I'll do anything to pay for it. Kailangan niya 'ko ngayon, pa.
Kamamatay lang ng anak namin. Kahit ano 'wag lang 'yon."
"That why you have choices, Osias. Be a man and sign one. I warned you before pero
hindi ka nakinig."
Napakuyom ako ng mga palad habang matalim ang tingin sa dalawang grupo ng mga papel
na nilapag ni atty sa lamesa. I can see the two officers waiting for us near the
door.
"Osias, ayokong makulong... Do something."
Nag-igting ang panga ko at matalim na tinignan si Jackie. Takot at nerbos ang nasa
mga mata niya.
Kasalanan niyang lahat 'to kung bakit ako nandito ngayon.
May humawak sa kamay ko. My mom forced a smile on her and handed me a pen.
"Sige na, Osias. Sign. You'll get through this."
"I can't, mom. I can't lose her."
"You won't. I assure you." Determination, comfort and assurance were all I could
see in her eyes.
That gave me a bit of strength that I could get through this. I took a deep breathe
and held the pen tight before signing one.
I did it.
I signed it.
And my heart started breaking.
After that, Nanatili lang ang tingin ko do'n. My eyes blurred and I watched as
tears tainted the paper drop after drop.
----
I went to the hospital after. I looked like a mess. My hair's messy, my eyes were a
bit swollen and beat red.
Nakadungaw ako sa asawa kong mahimbing ang tulog. I sat on the side of the bed and
held her hand. Nagsimula na namang magpatakan ang mga luha ko na agad kong
pinunasan.
Papa didn't want me to go here but I begged for it. I need to see her for the last
time.
"Cuddle c-cakes... Magkakahiwalay lang muna tayo saglit, huh. I accepted Papa's
punishment but after this, I'll come back to you. Babalikan kita and even though
we're gonna be far from each other, tandaan mong mahal na mahal kita. Ikaw lang,
Lee. You're my only wife."
Binitawan ko ang kamay niya at niyakap siya mg mahigpit. I buried my face on the
crook of her neck at took a whip of her scent. Ilang minuto din ang tinagal ko sa
gano'ng posisyon.
I'll miss her so dämn much. It'll break us both but we're gonna pass this.
Kakayanin namin 'to.
"Goodbye for now, my cute wife. I love y-you..."

My tears fell again. I dipped my head down and gave her lips my last kiss.
Chapter 28
Two months.
Sa loob ng dalawang bwan ay parang walang nangyayari sa buhay ko. Yung tipong
gumising ka lang sa umaga para maitawid ang bawat araw.
Simula nang magkahiwalay kami ay nawalan ng kulay ang lahat. Tinanggap ko ang
parusa ni Papa dahil alam kong pagkatapos nito-pag nakalaya na 'ko, makikita ko na
ang mahal kong asawa.
The day after I went to jail, she woke up. Dumaan siya sa depression at halos hindi
daw makausap.
What broke my heart was that she kept on calling my name. Gusto kong siyang
puntahan. Gusto kong sabihin na nandito ako at hindi siya iiwan pero hindi ko
magawa.
I wanna hug her, kiss her and tell her that everything will be alright but dämn!
Kailangan kong magtiis para sa kasunduan na ginawa namin.
Mom always keeps me updated. 'Pag bumibisita siya ay sa kanya ako kumukuha ng
balita. Because of her, the pain lessen but at the same time, it made me want to
bail myself out and see Lee.
Yes, concubinage is bailable. I can be free by just paying less than thirty
thousand. Napakaliit na halaga kaso isang taon ang hiningi sa'kin ni Papa.
Kung tutuusin, maraming butas ang kaso sakin. Dad didn't have the right to sue me
because a spouse can only do that. Hindi rin sapat na nagkaanak ako sa iba dahil
hindi ko naman binahay si Jackie. Ang ibedensya lang nila ay ung pagbubuntis nito
at may mga tumestigong nakita kaming naghahalikan sa party ni Jackie.
Not enough. The letter of confession that they made me sign made it strong but
still not enough.
I just wish that my sacrifices could make Papa have his peace of mind. Pinangako
niya naman sa'kin na pagkatapos nito, hahayaan niyang makasama ko ang aking asawa.
Yun lang ang pinanghahawakan ko.
Itatama ko ang lahat.
Napabalikwas ako sa pagkakahiga nang buksan nila ang selda namin. Ang sabi ng
warden ay may dalaw daw ako.
Nakangiti ako habang papunta sa visitor's lounge. I'm sure it's mom. Makakakuha na
naman ako ng balita.
Binuksan ng warden ang rehas na pintuan. Napahinto ako at agad na nawala ang ngiti
sa aking mga labi.
Anong ginagawa niya dito?
Kahit na ayaw siyang makausap ay lumapit narin ako. Isa pa, nakita niya na 'ko nung
oras na maisara ng warden ang pinto.
Tinitignan niya ang paligid. Napaismid ako. Halatang halatang ayaw niya sa lugar na
'to. Maayos naman at malinis pero talagang may kaartehan itong si Penelope.
Her mom's in jail too. On process pa ang annulment nila. Hindi ko na siya nakita
simula nang makulong ako pati na si Jackie pero nakiusap ako kay Papa na 'wag na
siyang ipakulong. She's carrying a child and it's not a good scene to give birth
inside prison.
"Osias... How are you?" Aniya nang makaupo ako. Malamig akong tumingin sa kanya.
"What do you want?"
"I'm here to visit you..." Mahinang sabi niya. "I just took care of mom but I'm
here to check on you."
Kumunot ang noo ko at hindi sumagot. She sighed when she noticed my unwelcome
gestures.
"I know I was wrong. Hindi ko napigilan si mommy. Dad won't talk to me and mom is
in jail. I couldn't get her out. 'Wag ka namang magalit sa'kin. You're all I have,
Osias..."
Seeing her made me remembered that Terrence lied to save her. My jaw tensed. My
lips formed a thin line. She's an actress, alright! A good one. She looked guilty
and remorseful.
Lumingon siya sa paligid with her innocent and fragile look. Tumitingin sa kanya
ang ilang mga preso at dumadalaw. Napayuko siya. She's seemed uncomfortable that
made her look more innocent.
Malungkot ang mga mata niyang tumingin sa'kin.
"Osias...Wala talaga akong kinalaman do'n. I tried to help her... Maniwala ka

naman."
"Tell me." Matigas kong sabi. "Wala ka ba talagang kinalaman sa pananakit ng mommy
mo sa asawa ko?"
Mabilis siyang umiling. "Wala. I was scared that time. I was still a kid. I knew it
was wrong to keep quiet but I also didn't want mom to be in prison. She's all I
have that time."
The side of her eyes glistened with unshed tears. Madilim ang tingin ko sa kanya.
Hindi ako naniniwala sa kanyang mga sinabi. She could've stopped it all if she
really cared.
"If you wanted to help her, you should've helped her."
"I did. I asked Terrence." Hinawakan niya ang aking kamay. Napatingin ako do'n.
"Please, Osias. Ikaw nalang ang alam kong andyan. Dad and Leanna left already. I
don't know who else-"
"What do you mean left?"
Did they leave home or the hospital? Mom said Lee got out of the hospital a month
ago...
"Lumipat sila ng bahay?" She answered and confirmed with a nod.
"That's not all." Lumungkot ang mukha niya. "They left the country."
"W-What?" I unconsciously said.
"I visit Leanna everyday kahit na hindi ako pinapayagang makita siya. One day, they
were gone. No one told me. Dad ordered them not to tell me. I felt alone, Osias.
Hindi ko alam na makakaramdam ako ng sobrang lungkot. They all left me except for
you."
Napaawang ang aking bibig. Ayan na naman ang kabog sa aking dibdib. Kinakabahan
ako. Papa and I had a deal. He's a businessman. May paninindugan siya sa mga sinabi
niya. That couldn't be true.
"But we had a deal..."
"I'm sorry..."
"Sa'n sila nagpunta?" I asked coldly.
"I don't know." She said softly.
Nag-igting ang panga ko. I felt betrayed by the father of my wife. Hindi ko
matanggap na sinira niya ang kanyang mga salita. Habang ako ay nagtitiis dito sa
sobrang pangungulila, may balak na pala niyang ilayo sa'kin si Lee.
Kung una siyang sumira sa kasunduan, hindi niya ko masisisi kung gano'n din ang
gawin ko.
"If you want me to forgive you, do something for me."
"What is it? Kahit ano." Mabilis niyang sabi. The determination in her eyes
wouldn't compare to mine.
Babawiin ko ang asawa ko.
I asked Penelope to contact Renz for me. Kinabukasan ay dumating siya at nakalaya
ako. Huminto ako pagkalabas na pagkalabas ko. Nilibot ko ang paningin sa paligid.
My heart feels caged than I was inside. I'm free, out of jail but why do I feel
useless?
Tinapik ni Renz ang aking balikat. Nilingon ko siya at nakita ang mapang-asar na
ngiti.
"Two months palang sumuko kana?" Panunuya niya.
"I didn't. Her father broke our deal. Tinakas niya si Lee. I need to find them."
"On it, bro. Ang alam ko wala na sila sa Pilipinas."
Mas lalo akong nainis sa narinig.
"I know. Penelope told me. Do you know what country?"
"That I'm not sure. They took a connecting flight. Singapore first then I lost
them." Naningkit ang mga mata ko sa kanya at naunang maglakad papunta sa kanyang
Chrysler. Nakasabay siya kalaunan.
Nahagip ng mata ko ang pagpindot niya ng fob key. The car made a click sound that
indicated that the doors were opened. Sumakay ako sa shotgun seat. I was securing
myself with the seatbelt when he sat and immediately started the engine.
"Don't worry, Osias. I waited for my wife for two years and now she's already here.
Magtyaga ka lang ang have more patience. Babalik din siya..." Aniya habang nagsi-
seatbelt.
Buti pa siya kasama na ang babaeng hinintay niya. For two years naghintay siya and
it was a fruitful wait. Sana ako rin...
I smile faintly and think of things to do after this and I know exactly what to do
first.
I fished my cellphone in my left pocket and called someone.
"General, can I have a favor?"
I could feel Renz listening and looking at me from time to time. Alam kong may
gusto siyang sabihin. My assumption was correct when I ended the call.
"Are you sure about that? You just got out..."
"Just drop me there. 'Wag mo na 'kong hintayin. I know that your wife is waiting
for you."
He tsked and shook his head. "Antayin nalang kita." Hindi na 'ko nagsalita. Hinatid
niya 'ko sa lugar na napag-usapan namin ni General Casimiro.
Saglit lang kaming naghitay bago sila dumating. Sumalubong ako. Sobrang tikas parin
ang tindig niya gaya ng tanda ko kahit naka polo at slacks siya at hindi uniporme.
"General..." I said and saluted. Nag-salute siya pabalik.
"They're inside the car."
Tinignan ko ang police car na tinuro niya sa di kalayuan. Katabi no'n ang kanyang
sasakyan. Sumenyas si General. May dalawang pulis na bumaba at kapwa may hinilang
tao mula sa backseat na parehong nakapiring at nakaposes ang mga kamay sa likod.
Nagpuyos ang dibdib ko sa galit, nakakuyom ang mga palad. Matalim ang tingin ko sa
kanila.
"Ten minutes, Lieutenant. Ibabalik ko pa sila mamaya."
Ten minutes is just fine.
He tapped my back. I nodded without taking my eyes off of the two before he left.
The two police made them knelt in front of me. Nagpalingun lingon sila,
kinakabahan. Ang akala naman ng mga bobong 'to ay may makikita sila.
These people were the reason we lost our child. Mabuti nalang at may CCTV sa bahay
kaya nakatulong sa paghahanap sa kanila pero hindi sapat na nakulong sila gaya ko.
"Nasa'n kami? Sino k-ka?" Tanong ng isa. His stuttering gave his nervousness away.
Napaismid ako at sinimulan ang gagawin. I punched and kicked him. Lahat ng tira ko
ay may panggigigil. Hinila ko siya patayo sa kwelyo at sinikmuraan.
Umuubo na siya pero hindi parin ako tumigil. Kulang pa 'yan.

We met in an idle land. Puro talahiban kaya walang makakarinig ng mga daing at
pagsigaw nila.
Nang matapos ako sa kanya ay nawalan na siya ng malay.
Pawis na pawis na 'ko pero hindi pa sapat. I need to be satisfied. Di bale may isa
pa. Nilingon ko ang isa. Nalayo kami.
Nakapiring at naglalakad? Putä! Balak pa atang tumagas ng gägo.
Hindi agad siya nakalayo. Nangagapa, e. Naglalakad lang ako nang maabutan ko.
Hinawakan ko siya sa braso at hinarap.
"Pakiusap p-po. May p-pamilya akong naghihintay s-sakin sa paglaya ko. 'Wag niyo
kong p-papatayin. Hindi po ako pusher..."
Nagdilim ang paningin ko sa mga sinabi niya. Sinuntok ko siya sa mukha. Bumagsak.
Tärantado ka pala, e. Naisip mo ung pamilya mo pero yung sa'kin hindi. Pinatay mo
ang anak ko at sinaktan si Lee tapos nagmamakaawa ka!? Tumatawa ka pa kayo! Fvck
you! I'll kill you.
Gusto kong isigaw 'yon sa kanya pero baka makilala ang boses ko. Mas lalo akong
nanggigil habang sinisipa ko siya. Inupuan ko ang tiyan niya at ilang beses na
sinuntok. Hindi ko tinigilan kahit nawalan na siya ng malay.
"Tama na 'yan, Lieutenant. Mahirap magdahilan sa presinto 'pag napatay mo siya."
I groaned and hit him one more time before standing up.
"Salamat, General." Nagmadali akong sumakay sa sasakyan ni Renz.
Pinaandar niya ang sasakyan. Bago kami umalis ay tinitignan ko ang pagkuha ng
dalawang pulis sa mga ginulpi ko.
Tahimik sa loob ng sasakyan. Hindi ko mapigil ang mabilis kong paghinga. I need to
cool down.
Nakakainis. Dapat pinuruhan ko pa ang dalawang 'yon. Kulang pa talaga. Dämn!
My shirt had bloodstains. Nanghiram muna ako ng damit kay Renz at ginamot narin ang
dumudugong kamao ko bago ako nagpahatid sa bahay. When I got home, mom welcomed me
with a warm smile and hug.
"I miss you, Osias."
"Mom..."
"I know... Everything will get better." Humigpit ang yakap ko sa kanya. Para akong
batang nagsusumbong.
Hindi ako nagsayang ng panahon. Tinawagan ko ang dapat tawagan. Inumpisahan ko kay
Atty. Diliman. Wala akong napala sa kanya dahil maging siya ay hindi niya daw din
alam.
I went to their home and asked the maids. Wala din daw silang alam sa pag-alis ng
amo nila. Even Manang Rosa.
I even hired a professional investigator. That's my last straw. Sinabi niyang medyo
mahihirapan siya dahil ibang bansa ang paghahanapan niya. He had set me an
expectation that this could take time.
"How long?"
"Months, even years." Napahilot ako sa sintido at sumandal.
"Add four people. Make a team."
"I will, sir. mapapabilis no'n ang trabaho." I dismissed him and I prepared for
work.
Hindi na 'ko pwedeng maging corporate attorney. Papa also took that from me. I
didn't mind, tho. Ako na ang namamahala sa iniwang negosyo ni daddy. Mom let me
took over. I'm the CEO of our law firm, the ALF Consultancy and Litigation. ALF
means Alcazar Law Firm.
Pababa na ko ng hagdanan nang saktong may nag-door bell. Manang Josie went to
answered it but I called her.
"Ako na, Manang." Tumango at ngumiti siya bago umalis.
Bumuntong hininga ako. Iba na talaga ang bahay na 'to nang mawala si Lee. She made
this house shine and now it's just an empty comstruction. Kahit ang mga kasambahay
ay malungkot.
Hindi ko alam ang mararamdaman ko nang bumungad sakin ang nasa kabila ng pintuan. I
was mad at first but when my eyes landed on her stomach, I didn't know what to
feel.
"Osias, help me."
"May pasok ako." Malamig na sabi ko at lalagpasan sana siya nang humarang siya sa
dadaanan ko.
"Tulungan mo naman kami ng anak mo. I had no job. My savings are not enough. Mom's
sick and my brother hates me. Anak mo rin 'to, Osias. Kahit na 'wag ako. Alam kong
galit ka sa'kin pero please, kahit ang anak lang natin ang isipin mo."
She held my arm and my eyes landed on them. "Please..." hinaplos niya ang umbok sa
kanyang tyan. My hands formed tight fists, my jaw tensed and I stared at her with
dark expression.
"Fine. Do what you want." Iniwan ko siyang mag-isa. I even heard her say thanks
while I head to my car.
Hindi ko na siya nilingon at pumunta sa sasakyan. Ginawa niya ang gusto niya at
nang makauwi ako galing sa trabaho ay ando'n na siya sa living room at hinihintay
ako. I noticed her luggage resting on near her feet. Tumayo siya nang makita ako.
Tipid siyang ngumiti. Sakto namang lumabas si Manang Josie mula sa kusina na may
dalang juice.
It was obvious that she didn't like Jackie here. She's disappointed, I know.
"Call someone to help her carry her things. Let her use the room at the other end
of the hallway."
Pumunta na 'ko agad sa study room at hindi sila hinayaang magsalita. Kinuha ko agad
ang alak sa liquor cabinet at uminom. Uminom ako nang uminom.
Talaga bang hahayaan kong tumira dito ang isang naging dahilan sa nangyari kay Lee.
If I continue this, I could make the accusation against me true. Na nagtaksil ako
at nambabae. But how about the baby?
Uminom ako ng uminom habang nakaupo sa swivel chair, pinagmamasdan ang asul na
kalangitan na unti unting nawawala at napapalitan ng mga bituin at dilim.
May kumatok. Hindi ko pinansin at tumungga muli ng alak. Pumitik ang sakit sa ulo
ko. Pati 'yon hindi ko pinansin. I felt my chest clenched with pain and burned with
liquor. I embraced the hollow feeling in my heart. Everything was just... gloomy,
sad and everything else in between. Or maybe I'm just miserable.
"Osias..." I heard her voice. Napahigpit ang hawak ko sa baso. Nakatagilid ako sa
kanya. "Dinalhan kita ng hapunan."
"I'm not hungry."
"Hindi maganda kung puro alak ang-" tumayo ako at madilim siyang tinignan.
"Don't tell me what's best or not. Nakikitira ka lang dito. You're not my wife.
Habang nandito ka, mas mabuting ilagay mo ang sarili mo. You.are.not.my.wife."
Nangilid ang luha sa kanya. Dahan dahan siyang tumango. "I'm s-sorry."
"Mula ngayon ay 'wag kang papasok dito. Pati sa kwarto ko. Don't bring me anything.
Talk to me when it's only about the baby. Is that clear?"
"But-"
"Then you can leave. The door is wide open." Napaawang ang labi niya sa gulat.
What!? Did she expect that I'll treat her like a friend now? Siya ang may gustong
tumira dito. Tiisin niya ang pagtrato ko sa kanya ngayon.
Nang makapag-isip siya siguro ay napalunok siya at dahan dahang tumango. I thought
she'd say something against it. It was in her personality to oppose to something
she didn't like. Ang maging palaban pero ngayon ay pagtango nalang ang ginawa niya.
I smirked. She changed because of what happened. Same as me, same as everything
around us and it only took one unfaithful event in a rainy night.
Ilang buwan ang lumipas at gano'n parin ang pagtrato ko sa kanya. We didn't talk
except when it comes to the baby. Hindi ko parin matanggap na merong nabuo but what
could I do. Andyan na.
Hindi ko siya sinasamahan sa mga ultrasound and check-ups. Ginagawa kong dahilan
ang trabaho.
May mga araw na pinagluluto niya 'ko ng pagkain. I remembered the time that Lee
told me that she would cook breakfast for me. Excited ako no'n pero hindi na
natuloy.
Jackie's cooking pissed me off. Hindi ko kinain at nagpaluto ako kay Manang Josie
ng bago. I know I hurt her with my rejection. Hindi ako sanay na tratuhin nang
gano'n ang mga babae pero bumabalik talaga ang galit ko sa kanya sa tuwing nakikita
ko siya.
"Osias, you know I'm not that happy with you marrying Leanna at first. I accepted
that because that's what you want but this? In everything you do wrong, I'm really
disappointed about this."
Mom said on the day she visited me and found out that Jackie was living here.
Sinugod niya agad ako sa study room ko.
Puro irap at pagka-digusto ang ipinapakita niya kay Jackie. Hinahayaan ko siya.
Jackie didn't mind her at all kahit na lagi siyang iniismiran ng aking ina pag
napapatingin sa tiyan niyang malaki na ngayon. I heard that she's on her eight
month.
"Kunin mo nalang ang bata pagkapanganak." Dagdag niya pa.
"I'm thinking about it." That was my original plan that's why I studied about that
case but sadly, nasa batas na hanggang 18 years old kailangang manatili ng anak sa
kanyang ina pero may lusot ako.
She didn't have a job, no money to support the child. Dahil sa ginawa ni Papa, wala
nang tumanggap sa kanya bilang corporate attorney gaya ko. Pwedeng makuha ng ama
ang anak sa ina kung hindi nito kayang suportahan ang bata. That was the ground I
had against her.
Nakatulog ako habang iniisip kung pa'no ko makukuha ang bata sa kanya sa oras na
siya'y manganak. I'll offer her money and if she won't accept, I'll make her.
When I sleep, I always let the door unlock and even in the main door. Lee likes to
lock them. Since she left, I never lock the doors because I always hope that one
day, even in the slightest possibility, that she will come back and I'll find her
locking them.
I really miss her. Parang araw araw na nadudurog ang puso ko. The people I hired
had leads but still not a hundred percent sure. I'm losing hope... kaya kahit
simpleng di pag-lock ng pinto ay kinakapitan ko na bumalik lang siya.
Araw araw akong maagang gumigising para mag-jogging. Handa na 'kong lumabas ng
kwarto nang makita kong naka-lock ang pinto.
Nag-igting ang panga ko at lumabas ng kwarto. I rushed at the main door just to see
that it was also locked.
"Manang Josie!" Sigaw ko at mabilis na pinasadahan ng palad ang buhok. Sinigaw ko

muli ang pangalan ni Manang.
Seconds after, she went out. Kasunod niya sina Tammy at ibang mga katulong.
Namewang ako sa harap nila.
"Sinong nag-lock ng pinto?" Nagtinginan sila at umiling. Mas lalo akong nakaramdam
ng inis nang walang magsalita.
"You know my rules." I gritted my teeth.
Humakbang si Manang palapit. "Baka naman nagkamali kalang ng tingin, hijo."
"Naka-lock ang pinto ko sa kwarto pati narin sa main door. That means, someone
locked it."
"What's happening?" Napaangat ang tingin ko kay Jackie habang dahan dahang pababa
ng hagdan. Nakasuot siya ng simpleng maternity dress. Her hair was in a ponytail
and she had no trace of make-up on her.
Halata sa kanya ang pagtataka nang makababa siya. She held her tummy with questions
pooling in her eyes.
"Nanakawan ba tayo? I set the door's lock last night. I'm sorry... I should've
double checked them. Was something miss-"
"You did what!?" Nagpupuyos sa galit ang tingin ko.
She stepped back when I immediately went to her and grabbed her arm. Ngumiwi siya.
Pilit niyang hinihila ang braso niya pero wala yung silbi. My hold was clenched
tight.
"What's the matter!? Ni-lock ko lang. L-Let me go. Nasasaktan a-ako."
"What the hell!? You know my rules at pumasok ka pa sa kwarto ko!" Hinatak ko ang
braso niya palapit.
"I just thought that we might get ransacked."
"Fvck that! That's why I have guards outside. Hindi ka ba nag-iisip. Nabobo ka na
ba dahil sa buntis ka, ha!?"
Bakas ang takot sa kanyang mukha habang pilit na tinatanggal ang kamay ko. Täng-
ina! Pa'no kung dumating si Lee kagabi at hindi makapasok!? Putäng-Ina talaga!
"Hijo, itigil mo na 'yan. Baka mapahamak ang bata." Narinig kong sabi ni Manang
pero matindi talaga ang galit ko sa babaeng 'to.
Nagka leche leche ang buhay ko simula noong dumating siya. If she didn't take
advantage of my drunken state, Papa wouldn't get mad. Lee would be here instead of
her-Damn it!
"Ikaw ang may kasalanan ng lahat!"
"Osias, please. You're hurting me!"
"That's not enough." Binitawan ko siya at napaupo siya sa sahig. Dinuroo ko siya.
"You did this to yourself. I gave you simple rules and you're stupid enough to
break them. Ikaw ang may kasalanan ng-"
Natigil ako nang makita ko ang pamimilipit niya sa sakit. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko
at naestatwa nang hawakan niya ang kanyang tiyan. Lumuhod si Manang sa tabi niya.
"Okay ka lang ba?"
"M-Masakit..." Mas lalo akong kinabahan nang dumaloy ang pulang likido sa kanyang
mga hita.
"Diyos ko! Tulungan mo siya, Osias!" Natauhan ako sa sigaw ni Manang Josie.
Lumuhod ako para buhatin siya. Ang mga daing niya ng sakit ang mas lalong
nagpapatindi ng kaba ko.
"Fvck!" Madiin kong sambit habang tinatakbo siya sa kotse.

Mabilis akong nag-drive papuntang ospital. Manang Josie was with us inside the car.
Inaalalayan niya si Jackie na garalgal ang paghinga.
Ngayon lang pumasok sa isip ko ang katangahang ginawa. Fvck it! Please, God! I
don't want to lose another child again.
Chapter 29
Exactly 3500 words excluding this note!!! Wow!!! Hehehe.
Sa lahat ng mga umasa't napaasa ko no'n... Enjoy!
I LOVINGLY looked at the beautiful creature inside the incubator. My put my hands
inside the pocket of my jogging pants.
Bahagya siyang gumalaw at pinigil ko ang aking hininga. I didn't want to wake her
up. Kailangan niyang magpalakas dahil pre-mature siya. She came a month earlier and
was weak but she's so beautiful even though she had tubes around her. Her fists
opened, showing her little fingers as she moved and stretched.
I smiled sweetly while looking at her.
"Anak mo nga siya. No doubt..." Mom said beside me.
Kakasilip niya lang sa bata pero alam niya na agad na sa'kin siya. It's obvious.
She had almost everything from me, the nose, lips and complexion. I'm not sure
about the eyes. Hindi pa siya dumidilat.
"Oo nga."
"You still want to do the DNA test?" Umiling ko.
"How about the custody contract?"
Umling akong muli nang hindi tinatanggal ang tingin sa bata. "Not yet, mom."
"You sure?"
"Yes."
"By the way, the mother's awake now."
Bumuntong hininga ako at nagsabing sisilipin si Jackie. She lost consciousness

after giving birth. Maraming nawalang dugo pero nabigyan na siya at pagkatapos ng
tatlong oras ay nagising na.
I knocked before opening the door. Naabutan ko siyang inaangat ang sarili para
makaupo. Napangiwi siya sa sakit but she handled herself very well on sitting.
"Don't move too much. You're still recovering."
"I'm fine." Pilit niyang ngumiti para itago ang sakit na nararamdaman. I sighed.
Bahala siya kung gusto niyang magpakatatag.
"Where's our baby?" Hindi ko gusto ang ideyang may anak parin kami but I had to
accept it kaya tinago ko ang pagkadigusto.
"Nasa incubator. She's premature. The doctor said that her lungs were not yet fully
developed."
Tumango siya at yumuko. Alam kong nag-aalala siya sa anak namin. Ako rin naman lalo
na't ako ang dahilan nang pagiging pre-mature ng bata.
Naghatak ako ng monoblock chair at tinabi sa kama. Umupo ako at bumuga ng hininga.
"I'm sorry."
Napaharap siya sa'kin sa gulat. Not expecting me apologizing.
"If I didn't push you..."
"It's okay. It's my fault anyway."
"Still, it's my fault." Pagdidiin ko. "Seeing her for the first time made me feel
the happiness I lost the long time. I won't promise anything but I'll try to be a
good father for her. Sisikapin ko ring maging maayos ang pakikitungo ko. It won't
be fast but I'll try."
Pinagmasdan kong tumulo ang ilang mga luha sa kanya na kanyang pinunasan. I know
that I still anger towards her but it lessen when she gave birth.
"Thank you, Osias." Bahagya siyang ngumiti. I couldn't smile like her but I admit,
bringing that angel in this world made me happy. Nakalimutan ko ang lungkot at
pangungulila kahit papaano.
"What do you want to name her? May naisip ka na ba?" Kuminang ang mata niya sa
tanong ko.
Tumango siya. "Jupiter Alcazar. Sounds out of this world, diba?"
Napangiti ako. "Very. It sounds beautiful."
"Also... I want you to give her the second name."
"R-Really?" After all the things I did? She'll let me name my daughter? "O-okay...
Thanks."
"You're the father or are you..." She paused and threw me a calculating look. Nag-
aalangan. Alam ko ang ibig sabihin niya.
"Don't worry. Hindi maipagkakailang anak ko siya."
Bumalik na naman ang kinang at sigla sa kanyang itsura kahit na alam kong may
dinaramdam pa siya mula sa panganganak.
"Mabuti naman. So what name do you want? Any name."
Tumingin ako sa kisame at nag-isip. Pinagkiskis ang mga palad. "Hmmm..." Ano nga
bang ipapangalan ko sa kanya? Dapat ung bagay sa first name at espesyal...
Kusang sumilay ang ngiti sa mukha ko. Alam ko na ang ipapangalan.
"Lea... I'll name her Lea."
Ngumiti siya saglit bago nawala. Her expression darkened and her jaw clenched. "No!
Ayoko. Think of something else..."
Kumunot ang noo ko. "Hinayaan mo ko tapos ayaw mo. That's the name I want."
"Well I don't like it. Jupiter Lea? Ang pangit pakinggan."
"Fine. How about Leigh?"
Umiling iling siya. "Ayoko."
What the fvck! "You asked me yet you don't want anything I want to name her. Anong
sense nang tinanong mo pa 'ko?" Sabi ko habang nagpipigil ng inis.
Nag-igting ang panga niya bago kagatin ang labi at nag-iwas ng tingin. "Basta
ayoko."
Napahilamos ako ng palad sa mukha. "Emily."
"No."
"Ano bang problema mo?" I seethed.
"Problema ko? My problem is that you want to name my daughter from her name! Ang
dami daming pangalan dyan but all you think about are names that are almost the
same as your wife. Anak ko siya, Osias. Sa'kin, so why would you name her like
she's hers. Pati ba naman sa pangalan ng anak ko kahati ko siya sa'yo? Think
something else."
Napatayo ako at tinapunan siya ng matalim na tingin. "She's my daughter too and I
will name her anything I want. I will name her Leanna if I want to, so don't give
me that crappy reason. Kahit kailan ay wala kayong paghahatian. She's not here but
she has all the privilege because she's still and always will be my wife. You can
never replace her. Tandaan mo 'yan."
Sinalubong niya ang talas ng aking tingin kahit na may mga luhang tumutulong muli
mula sa kanyang mga mata.
Tumalikod ako at handa nang lumabas. "I'll fix Leigh's birth certificate."
She gave me the right to do that and now she's mad because of that? Dämn her!
Does it really hurt when I name our daughter after the love of my life? Of course
it is pero iyon ang gusto ko. Sumusobra man ako, nasasaktan ko man siya, siguro mas
mahalaga lang talaga ang konkesyon ko kay Lee.
I want something to remember her. To give me something that makes me think only
her. Something to hold on and never let go.
I want her named Leigh and I will name her that.
I will wait until she comes home to me but I'll make sure that it won't take
forever. Ako ang gagawa ng hakbang. I know she's a bit lost that's why it's up to
me to find her.
And when she comes home, we'll start our postponed tomorrow and forever.
Wala, e. Ganito na siguro ako magmahal.
Jackie didn't even try to hide her dislike whenever I call Leigh by the name I
gave. I call her that and she calls her Jupiter. She would scowl sometimes or glare
at me. I didn't care, tho. Bahala siya.
Nag-usap kaming maging maayos para sa anak namin pero kung ganyan siya, baka
bumalik kami sa dati. Or worst, palalayasin ko siya dito sa bahay.
Pinag-iisipan ko na ikuha siya ng bahay 'pag nakuha ko ang custody sa kanya. She'll
be mad as hell, I know but I swear that she can't do anything about it.
That's my back-up plan if ever we can't fix this.
Pag gising ko ay si Leigh agad ang aking pinuntahan. Kumatok ako sa pintuan ni
Jackie. Bumukas ito at bumungad sa'kin si Jackie na mapungay pa ang mga mata dahil
bagong gising.
"Papaarawan ko siya bago maghanda sa trabaho. Gising ba siya?"
"She just woke up." Binuksan niya nang maluwag ang pinto. Pumasok ako at dumiretso
kay Leigh na nasa crib.
"Hi, baby..." I adoringly greeted her. I showed her the toy with a bell. Kumawag
kawag siya habang diretsong nakatingin sa'kin ang magaganda niyang mga mata na
nakuha niya sa kanyang ina. Napangiti ako.
"Good morning, Leigh..." Hinalikan ko siya sa noo bago buhatin. Jackie cleared her
throat that made me look at her.
"Dadalhin ko siya sa doktor mamaya for her monthly check-up." Aniya.
"Can I come?"
Bahagya siyang ngumiti. "Of course."
"Anong oras kayo aalis? I'll fetch you here."
"2pm..."
Tumango ako at naglakad palabas. Do'n lang kami sa driveway ng bahay. I made her
lean on my shoulders and exposed a bit of her back by lifting her white top.
"Ayan, baby. Get all the nutrients you need. Gusto ni daddy na lumakas ka para
hindi sakitin."
She's past her second month and the doctor said that her lungs were weak. Epekto
'yon ng pagiging pre-mature kaya nga sobrang pag-iingat ang ginagawa namin sa
kanya.
That's also the reason why I couldn't talk to Jackie about the custody papers.
Leigh need us both.
"Osias." Napalingon ako sa pinto. Palapit sa'min si Jackie. "Nakalimutan mo ung

pamunas niya."
Nabaling ang tingin ko kay Leigh nang humikab ito ng pagkalaki laki. She's so
adorable that I couldn't help but to smile.
"Kakagising lang ng baby Jupiter namin, inaantok na agad?" Pabirong sabi ni Jackie
habang pinupunasan ang mukha ni Leigh.
"Are you sleepy, baby?" Isang hikab muli ang ginawa niya bago idinantay ang pisngi
sa balikat ko.
Kapwa kami natawa. "Akin na. I'll feed her."
"No. Let me carry her."
Naging maganda ang pakikitungo namin ni Jackie sa isa't isa. Alang alang nalang din
sa anak namin.
It progressed really well in a span of one month that we even laughed sometime
while she jokes.
Nagkakausap narin sila ni mom nang hindi nag-iirapan pero tutol parin si mom sa
pananatili ni Jackie sa bahay.
"You look like a happy family." Mom commented sternly after seeing the three of us
having breakfast.
Tumayo ako at sinalubong siya bago halikan sa pisngi. "Morning, mom. Napadalaw ka
'ata."
"Good morning po, ma..." Bati ni Jackie na sandaling nagpatigil kay mom sa pag-upo.
Kahit ako rin ay natigilan sa narinig. Nilingon ko siya na parang hindi alam ang
nasabi at inaasikaso si Leigh.
"Tammy, pahanda naman ng isang set para kay mom."
Mom held my arm. "Hindi na, hijo. I just want to give you a good news but I think
you're busy with... things. I visited you yesterday. Hindi ka pumasok..."
Bumuntong hininga ako sa pagpaparinig niya. I didn't go to work because Leigh had
an uneven breathing. Kinabahan ako at sinugod namin siya sa doktor. She's fine now.
"I also called you but you're phone's off. Anyway, how's my grandchild? God, I
sound old."
"Don't worry, ma kahit na matanda na kayo, maganda parin naman kayo."
Mom raised her brow at Jackie. "Jackie, I'm not your mother. Even my daughter-in-
law doesn't call me that. Call me Bettina, will you please?"
Nanahimik si Jackie at napayuko sa hiya. Pinagpatuloy niya ang naudlot na pagkain.

Bumaling naman ako kay Mom.
"So what's the news, mom?"
Masaya siyang bumaling sa'kin bago magsalita. "May nakasalubong akong dumalaw
kahapon. He said he's your PI and had a lead where to find Leandro and Leanna.
He'll visit you early today."
Rinig ang malakas na pag-urong ng upuan nang agad akong tumayo. I took my coat that
was hanging at the back of my chair and went out.
Hindi ko pinansin ang isang boses na tumatawag sa'kin. I'm not even sure who's
those are from basta ang alam ko lang ay kailangang makapunta agad ako sa opisina.
Nang makarating ako do'n ay agad kong pina-kansela kay Jessie ang unang isang oras
sa sched ko. Binigay ko sa kanya ang pangalan ng PI.
Jessie is my secretary. Pagnakikita ko siya ay naalala ko si Vilma ng Scooby Doo.

Short hair, sweaters, pencil skirts and eyeglasses...may hawig sila.
I look calm sitting on my swivel chair, waiting. Pero ang totoo, aligaga ang
pakiramdam ko sa loob. Hindi makapaghintay at bawat minuto ay parang oras sa tagal.
Anong ibabalita niya? Nakita niya na ba si Lee? Ano na kayang ginagawa niya? Is she
still looking for me? Shït! Ang tagal niyang dumating! Naiinip na 'ko.
Nang tawagan ako ni Jessie ay napatingin ako sa oras.
Dämn! Twenty minutes palang akong naghihintay? I thought it was more than an
hour...
"Mr. Alcazar..." He tipped the tip of his hat to greet and I gestured him to sit
down on the chair in front of my desk while I remained on the other side.
"What have you got?" Agad kong tanong nang makaupo siya. Tumango siya.
Ayoko lang kasi ng paliguy ligoy lalo na't tungkol ito kay Lee. He seemed not to
mind my rush. He's a professional. That's why.
"Don Leandro was here in the Philippines just last week..."
"What? Then where is he now? Kasama niya ba ang asawa ko?"
He handed a folder to me. Kinuha ko ito at binuksan. "As you can see, kuha 'yan
noong pumasok at lumabas sa airport si Don Leandro. We also had his schedule
printed out and we're definitely sure that he's alone."
Tinignan ko ang pictures ni Papa na naka-suit kasama ang dalawang bodyguards na

namukaan ko no'n. Kasama din don ang kanyang flight schedule.
"So where's my wife?"
"We're not actually sure about that..."
"Ipaliwanag mo." Sinarado ko ang folder at kunot noo siyang tinignan.
"May nakuha kaming impormasyon na naunang bumalik ng Pilipinas si Ms. San-"
"Mrs. Alcazar." Pagtatama ko.
Tumikhim siya. "We're not sure but sa tingin namin ay magkahiwalay sila ng
tinitirhan o ng lugar na pinuntahan. I have someone following Don Leandro overseas
as we speak."
Magandang balita ang dala niya. It flicked a fire of hope in me but I couldn't help
but to feel disappointed because there's still no concrete detail where she was.
Ayokong magalit kay Papa pero bakit niya ginagawa sa'kin 'to? Bakit niya nilalayo
sa'kin si Lee?
Kasal siya sa'kin. Akin siya. Dapat nandito siya sa tabi ko.
But what will I do with Jackie?

That's not a problem. I can set her aside immediately just for Lee.
The problem is what if she takes Leigh with her? Ina parin siya. Lalaban at lalaban
'yon para sa anak niya.
I know Lee will understand our situation with Leigh. Aalagaan namin si Leigh na
magkasama.
Sumandal ako at hinilot ang sintido. Ano ba 'yan? Iniisip ko na agad ang hinaharap,
wala pa nga dito si Lee.
I got to bring her back first.
"Sir, may bisita po kayo."
I pressed the phone button that connected me to Jessie. "Sino?"
"Ahh... Your w-wife and daughter, sir."
"Who?" Asawa't anak? Nabuhayan ako ng loob. Is my wife back?
Patayo palang ako para salubungin siya pero agad na bumukas ang pinto. Gano'n na
lamang ang panlulumo ko nang pumasok si Jackie na naka-dress at make-up, bitbit si
Leigh at isang paper bag.
"Fvck it!" I seethed. "What the fvck are you doing here, Jackie?"
"Hindi mo kasi natapos yung pagkain mo kanina kaya dinalhan ka namin ni Jupiter ng
pagkain." Malaki ang ngiti niyang sabi sabay abot ng paper bag.
I raked my fingers through my hair out of frustration before coldly glaring at her.
"I don't care, okay."
"S-sorry..." Dahan dahan niyang binaba ang kamay.
"I don't need your fvcking sorry! What I need from you is to remain at home with
Leigh! Alam mong bawal sa kanya ang maglalabas!" Napapitlag si Leigh sa boses ko.
"Dämn it! Umuwi na kayo."
I sat down and acted busy on some papers. Ramdam ko ang paglapit niya kahit
nakayuko ako.
"Just leave, Jackie and don't ever use the title of my wife."
She let an audible sigh. "I'll leave the food here..."
"No. Take it with you."
"O-okay."
It really is not my day today. Jackie is annoying. My wife isn't here yet and we
lost two client cases this month under the same opposing lawyer. Hindi naman
malaking kaso pero hindi ibig sabihin no'n ay hindi sila kawalan. The credibility
of my attorneys and the company's name is at stake.
Mabilis na lumipas ang mga araw. Sinundan iyon ng mga buwan. Nagawa kong makuha
bilang empleyado ang abogadong laging nakakatalo sa'min sa kaso. Dahil don,
nakilala ang ALF. Nakagawa ito ng pangalan sa industriya.
Sunud sunod ang swerte sa loob ng sampung buwan ngunit nagkaroon ng kabayaran ang
mga 'yon. Sa sobrang mahal, hanggang ngayon hindi parin ako makaahon.
I also made my name famous. Not only because I made the company boomed, it's
because I am heartless and ruthless.
Wala akong sinasanto kahit malaking opisyal o business personality. Pag may kaso,
lahat ginagawa ko para manalo.
Kahit ano...
"His alibi is valid, Mr. Alcazar. He's innocent..." Atty. Cabral said while placing
the file down.
I was sitting at the head of the conference table. He was sitting on the left with
Atty. Lopez. Facing them was Mr. Cornejo and his wife.
"What are we going to do about it, Mr. Alcazar? I'm a hundred percent sure that
that bastärd stole my company's money. We have to do something!?"
"Are you really sure, Mr. Cornejo. All his proof of innocence is valid. How will
you explain that?"
Natuptop ang kanyang bibig sa pananahimik. This kind of client disgust me. All they
wanted was someone to blame and punish. Lucky for him, he's my client.
"Don't worry, Mr. Cornejo. He'll confess..."
I called it a day after. Tinawagan ko ang tauhan kong maaasahan sa pag-unat ng mga
gusot ng kliyente.
Nang matapos, naging abala ako sa trabaho. None dared to disturb me. They knew how
to save their job.
Kung dati ay malapit ako sa mga empleyado ko, ngayon halos ilagan nila ako sa
takot. My employees weren't the only people who were scared of me. All people who
knew me as a businessman and lawyer never thought of opposing me.
That's who I am now. A shell. It's the kind of person that I change to.
Preparing to leave the office, I placed the files I needed to further review in my
satchel. A familiar tone surround the four walls from my phone.
I answered it quickly knowing it's important. Who could this be? Nagpalit ako ng
number kaya konti lamang ang nakakaalam ng linyang 'to. Just Mom and my trusted
men.
"What is it?"
"Mr. Alcazar, si Oragon 'to..."
Napahinto ako. "Anong balita?"
"Good news. I know where they are. I found your wife." Shït!
"Where?" Mabilis kong tanong. I grabbed my car keys on the table and rushed
outside.
"You won't believe this. I'm looking at them in front of their house."
Napahinto ako sa pagtakbo papuntang sasakyan. "W-what?"
"They're back. Nasa bahay nila. Kakauwi lang..."
"Dämn! Bakit ngayon mo lang sinabi!"
Pinatay ko agad ang tawag at nag-drive papunta sa sinabi niya.
For months, we've been finding them. Para silang bulang naglaho dahil hirap makita
tapos ngayon nakabalik na sila. Talagang sinigurado ni Don Leandro na hindi sila
makita. He even let his president take over his company just to cut ties here.
Muntik na kong mabangga habang papunta. I even received curses but the hell I care.
I'm mad-no! I'm furious! Galit ako kay Don Leandro dahil sa ginawa niya. I'll make
sure that he'll know what he did to me. I'll give him a piece of my mind.
I don't want his reasons. I want what he took from me.
I want my tomorrow and I'll take her no matter what.
Nahagip pa ng paningin ko ang sasakyan ng PI ko sa malayo bago ako labasin ng

guard. He knew me so he opened the gate immediately.
Pagbaba ko ay ang pagdating ng isa pang sasakyan. It was a blue porsche.
Kay Penelope.
Bumaba siya. Nagulat ito nang makita ako bago nagmadaling lumapit sa'kin.
"I got a call. They're here."
"I know."
I walked to the door. It was open so I invited myself in.
Pagpasok sa bahay ay living room agad. Sa dulo ng kwarto at pakurbang hagdan ang
makikita.
Nilibot ko ang paningin sa paligid. Hinahanap ng mata ko ang kung sino man.
Nakita ko agad ang taong kumuha nang lahat sa'kin. Pababa siya ng hagdan.
"Dad!" Running to him, Penelope immediately gave him a tight hug that he didn't
bother to respond.
Penelope frowned and slowly let go. Hindi naman mawala ang tingin ko sa kanya. Nang
makita niya 'ko ay ngumiti ito sa'kin na parang walang nangyari.
How can he even act like that?
"Osias, how are you?"
Nakuyom ko ang mga kamay kasabay ng pag-igting ng panga.
"I think that's not the-"

"Daddy!" That voice made me look up once again.
I saw her. Her curled her was bouncing as she rushed to get at the end of the
stairs. Hawak niya ang sumbrerong suot upang hindi mahulog. The light of her
bright smile melt my anger and every emotions I felt except for awe and happiness.
"I'm going to the mall with Ter!"
My eyes never left her. I was desperately praying for her to look at my direction
she exchanged hugs with her father. Both have smiles and joy.
Nakita niya na kaya ako?
"L-Leanna?" Penelope gasped.
My prayers were answered when she turned her gaze at me!
Halos hindi ako makagalaw nang magtama ang tingin namin. Those beautiful pool of
caramel lighted up like a fire melting a stone cold ice.
Mga ngiting para lamang sa'kin.
"Cuddle c-cakes..." I breathe.
Pinagmasdan ko siyang tumakbo palapit sa'kin. Her arms encircled my waist, face
buried on my chest.
My arms slowly moved around her back. Tiningala niya 'ko.
My heartbeat hammered fast.
She's here. She's real.
"Blakey!" She called my name excitedly.
Chapter 30
"Ate was right? That is a silly nickname." She giggled and faced her dad. "Bye,
daddy! I'll be back tonight."
"Be careful, darling."
Hindi niya na 'ko muling nilingon at nagdire-diretso palabas. I was left confused
and heartbroken...
What happened? Why did she leave me like that? I'm her husband. It wasn't supposed
to be like that.
She's run away from me again. Hindi pwede! I need to follow her.
Umamba akong tatakbo para maabutan siya ngunit tinawag ako ni Don Leando.
"It's better if we talk first. Hayaan mo muna siya..." malamlam ang tingin niya.
Para bang may pag-aalala sa mga 'yon.
Bakit? Para sa'n.

Muling kong tinignan ang daang tinahak ni Lee kanina. "I can't let her go again."
Tumakbo ako palabas. I ignored his calls and run outside. Luminga muna ako, iniisip
na baka hindi pa siya nakakalayo. Nang hindi ko siya matanaw ay nagmadali ako sa
sasakyan.
Fvcking great, Osias! Fvcking great! Sa'n mo na siya ngayon hahanapin?
Mall. She mentioned about going to the mall with someone. That's it! Pero sa'n? Ang
daming mall sa Pilipinas.
I need to find her. Hindi ko na hahayaang mawala siya sa'kin. It has been hell
without her. Ayoko nang maranasan 'yon ulit. But where?
Nag-drive lang ako nang nag-drive. Mahigpit ang hawak ko sa manibela. Where is she?
Where is she? I can't lose her again.
Shut up, Osias. Don't panic! Think. Just think for a sec.
Oragon.
Tinabi ko ang sasakyan at tumawag.
"Sir..."
"I need to find my wife."
"Nandito siya sa Tally, food court. Kanina ko pa siya sinusundan."
"Good work. Papunta na 'ko."
My mind clouded with thoughts of her as I rushed to get there.
Sa food court ang sinabi ni Oragon kaya halos takbuhin ko na ang papunta do'n.
Sobrang lawak ng lugar at ang daming tao kaya nang mapagod akong kakahanap ay
tinawagan ko siya at tinanong ang eksaktong lugar.
Si Oragon ang unang hinanap ko pero si Lee ang aking nakita. She was sitting there
while tapping her fingers on the table, all smiles and happy. Wala na ang malaking
sumbrerong suot niya kanina.
I was approaching her when her eyes shone with delight and stood up. I came into a
halt as I watched her running happily to the person that just arrived.
"Terry bear!" She launched herself as he caught her to a tight hug.
Nakuyom ko ang aking mga kamay habang tiim bagang pinagmamasdan sila na parang
magkaibigan na ngayon lang nagkita.
"Baby doll..."
Ito ba? Ito ba ang dahilan kung bakit nagmamadali siyang iwan ako? Si Terrence?
Fvck! They even have nicknames for each other!
I'm not fond of nickname but it hurts me to know that she had given one to someone.
To him!
"Where do you wanna go, baby doll? O gusto mong kumain muna?"
"Hmmm..." She looked up, thinking while biting her lip. "Arcade!" She exclaimed.
The fvcker chuckled. "Hindi ka ba napagod sa byahe?"
She just shook her head, giggling before taking his hand and pulled him away.
Sinundan ko sila. I want to just grab her and get her away from that asshöle. They
went through a pool of people. Ang iba sa kanila ay napapatingin sa'kin.
Sino bang hindi kung halos patayin na ng mga tingin ko si Terrence na naka-akbay sa
kanya. My jealousy is eating me alive.
Pinagmamasdan ko lamang sila habang masayang nagkwe-kwentuhan. Patingin tingin sa

paligid at maya maya ang turo ni Lee sa mga bagay na nagugustihan niya hanggang
pumasok sila sa WOF. Agad siyang pumunta sa ticket booth.
I couldn't help but to remember the times when I took her to different places. Para
siyang batang manghang mangha sa paligid. She was innocent and her eyes were ready
to explore the world.
She didn't change.
Yes, she did. She doesn't look at me like before, like I was someone that she once
knew.
Kung hindi lang nangyari sa kanya ang mga masasamang naranasan niya...
My trance got broken when the air was filled with her entrancing giggles. It made
me remembered the moments when we were happy, all playing between the sheets after
we made love.
Then she would kiss me tenderly and giggled again like what she's doing right now
but then I realized that, she's not doing it to me now.
To another guy.
My chest hurts and I can almost hear my heart breaking. Sa'kin lang siya dapat
ganya. Hindi sa iba.
Hindi ko na kaya. Lumapit ako sa kanila.
Kumunot ang noo ni Terrence nang makita ko. Lee was playing basketball, her back
facing me. Tuluy tuloy lang siya at kahit sablay ang mga tira'y tumatawa parin.
"Wife..." Do'n lamang siya huminto at nilingon ako. Iniwan ang larong nauubusan na
ng oras.
"Osias..." she breathed and went beside Terrence.
D-mn it! Hindi ko alam kung sa'n ako maasar. Dahil tinawag niya 'ko sa pangalan ko
at hindi Blakey o dahil sa paghawak niya sa braso ni Terrence.
Her eyes didn't say anything. Parang nagtataka lang kung anong ginagawa ko dito.
"Come here. Let's talk."
"I'm with Terrence. We can talk tomorrow..."
My jaw clenched. "It can't wait."

Umiling siya. "I want to enjoy this day. I want to have fun. Ayoko pang umalis..."
Pumikit ako para pigilan ang sakit at inis. I thought I was hurt enough earlier. I
never imagine that her rejection would be a bigger pain.
When I opened my eyes, I turned them to Terrence. "Kukunin ko na ang asawa ko." I
said, emphasizing the word that put my claim on her.
Mariin ang tingin ko sa kanya. I noticed the changes on him. He looked more mature
and had grown some muscles. Clean cut ang buhok na dating medyo mahaba at marunong
narin siyang pumorma ng maasyos hindi gaya dati na mukha siyang totoy kung manamit.
Gutung gusto ko siyang bangasan dahil ang lakas ng loob niyang tapatan ang mga
titig ko. Dumilim ang tingin ko. I'm forcing myself not to do a scene here. Nag-
iwas lang siya at napalingon kay Lee nang bahagyang hatakin nito ang kanyang braso.
He smiled at her. "Let's call it a day."
"But, Ter..."
"Sige na. I know you're tired from the travel. Isa pa, gumala naman tayo bago
umalis ng Canada."
Fvcking hell! Kaya pala sobrang close nila! She was with him the whole time! P-
tang-ina naman!
"I'm not tired. He can wait."
"I had been waiting for almost two years just to see you. I can't wait anymore.
Umuwi na tayo, cuddle cakes..." My voice was soft. Lumambot ang tingin niya sa'kin.
Nabuhayan ako ng loob ng mag-isip siya at bumuntong hininga.
Sasama na ba siya sa'kin? Is she giving in to me?
"Osias?"
Fvck! Bakit siya nandito? Bakit ngayon pa?
Nilingon ko lang saglit si Jackie bago tignan si Lee. Nagtagpo ang aming mga
paningin.
I thought I saw sadness or maybe longing in them. It was fast and maybe I was
mistaken because what I see now is nothing but distant when she turned her eyes
behind me.
Pumunta sa gilid ko si Jackie at hinawakan ang braso ko.
"I'm glad I find you here, Osias. Who are you-" Jackie gasped upon seeing Lee. "L-
Leanna..."
Matamis na ngumiti si Lee. "Hi, Jackie. How are you?"
"I'm... ahh f-fine."
Naramdaman ko ang paghigpit ng kapit ni Jackie. Nakita kong nagawi ang tingin ni
Lee do'n. I don't want her to have the wrong thoughts so I immediately removed
Jackie's hand away from me.
"Let's go, Lee..." Lumapit ako sa kanya at inabot ang aking kamay.
Tinignan niya lang 'yon. Dämn! Hindi niya ba alam kung ga'no kasakit ang ginagawa
niya? Where's my old Leanna? Bakit niya 'ko natitiis ng ganito?
Sa sobrang kagustuhan kong makasama siya ay hinawakan ko ang kamay niya at hinila
siya palayo.
"Wait! Let's me go."
"We're going home, wife." Hinihila niya paminsan minsan ang kamay niya pero
mahigpit ang kapit ko.
Napangiti ako nang hindi na siya pumalag pa at pumunta ng parking lot.
"Osias, wait!" Tinawag ako ni Jackie. Napalingon ako at napahinto.
I want to punch myself for turning around. Dämn! Dapat hindi ako lumingon, e kaso
nagawa ko na. Gusto ko nang umuwi kasama ang aking asawa.
Huminto siya sa harap namin. I pulled Leanna's body on my side, not letting her go.
"Osias, we need to be somewhere else." She said.
Kumunot ang noo ko sa pagtataka. "I believe we don't. Wala akong maalala."
Sadness formed on her eyes. "Nakalimutan mo..." Malalim ang buntong hiningang
pinakawalan niya. "It's Jupiter's first birthday..."
Napaawang ang bibig ko. Ngayon ba 'yon? Shït! Anong date ba ngayon? Bakit
nakalimutan ko? Dinungaw ko si Lee na nakayuko.
Dämn! What is she thinking?
I looked at Jackie with dark expression. Sisirain niya na naman ang lahat. "I'll go
later. My wife and I need to go home..."
My wife. Napakasaya ko at nasabi kong muli 'yon. Sa wakas. But Jackie had to ruin
it.
"Napag-usapan na natin 'to noon pa. We need to be there together. It's her first
birthday."
Sa malayo ay natanaw ko si Terrence na palapit sa'min. Pilit na kumalas si Lee

sa'kin bago lumapit sa kanya.
"I'm sorry, Osias. I don't want to go with you. I promised myself that I'd do
anything that could make me happy everyday and going with you would break that.
Ayokong sumama sa'yo."
"Cuddle cakes..."
"One more thing. Please call me Leanna. Nababaduyan kasi ako sa cuddle cakes and
I'm sorry that I gave you a silly nickname. I think Osias is better than Blakey."
Matamis siyang ngumiti bago hatakin si Terrence sa kamay palayo.
She couldn't be serious right? Para narin niyang sinabing magkalimutan na kami. Na
kalimutan na lahat ng meron kami.
Hinabol ko sila.
"Lee!" She stopped but didn't turn around. "Don't... We promised each other our
tomorrow and forever. Pa'no na 'yon?"
Tumawa siya. Isang tawang mapangutya bago humarap.
"That's just wrong." Bumuga siya ng hangin. Her laugh turned down to giggles. "It
was just an illusion I created back when I was still dumb and incompetent.
Everything is different now. I don't believe on those anymore." She said coldly.
----
Sa bar ako dumiretso matapos kong dumalaw kay Leigh. Nakailang baso na 'ko pero
kulang padin.
Kanina ko pa tinawagan si Renz na pumunta dito pero ang tarantadöng 'yon! Ang tagal
dumating. Pinaghihintay pa 'ko.
Ano? Ako nalang ba ang laging maghihintay tapos hindi sisiputin? Täng-ina lang!
"Give me five more shots."
Fvck this bartender! He looks like thinking of not giving my order. E kung ipatira
ko 'to sa labas?
"My order or I'll kill you." Agad naman siyang sumunod.
Tärantado ka pala eh! Susunod ka rin naman.
My mind drifted back to what happened earlier. Doesn't she know how miserable I was
when her dad took her away from me?
Malamang hindi. She said she was happy...
Pero pa'no naman ako? Nasa'n na ung asawa ko na laging gustong kasama ako. Magiging
masaya siya kahit wala ako pero ako? I can't be happy if she's not here.
Sunud sunod ang tunga ko sa limang shots alak. Hindi nagtagal ay nakaramdam na ko
ng hilo. Tinamaan na 'ko ng alak.
I placed some bills on the counter before leaving. I didn't count it because I
couldn't. Pasuray suray na kong maglakad palabas, papunta sa parking lot.
What the fvck! What happened to my keys? Bakit hindi magkasya?
Hinampas ko ang bubong ng sasakyan. Tumunog ang alarm nito na mas lalong ikinasakit
at ikinainit ng ulo ko.
"Hoi! Anong ginagawa mo sa sasakyan ko?"
Humarap ako at napasandal sa sasakyan. I looked at him with blurry sight.
Is he even human? I smirked. His face is deformed.
"I'm sorry, mister. Ako na ang humihingi ng tawad sa ginawa niya."

I heard an annoying familiar voice. Nag-usap pa sila. Bakit ba hindi ko maalis alis
ang babaeng 'to sa buhay ko?
"Halika na, Osias." Kahit malabo ay nahagip ng paningin ko ang pag-abot niya
sa'kin.
I slapped her hand away.
"Don't t-touch me."
"Pero kailangan mo ng tulong."
"I d-don't need any help from y-you. Ayoko sa m-malas..."
Umalis ako. Hindi pa 'ko nakakalayo ay agad niyang pinalibot ang mga braso sa
bewang ko. I entangled them from me harshly.
"I'm s-sorry..." She whispered that made me face her.
Nagulat nalang ako nang bigla niyang sapuin ang aking mga pisngi at bigyan ako ng
halik.
I was stunned and dizzy that I couldn't react immediately until her lips moved.
Tinulak ko siya.
"What the fvck!" I seethed, wiping my lips. "Ganyan ka na ba talaga kababa? There's
only one woman in my life. I won't notice you even you take all of your clothes. At
least save your dignity, Jackie. Leave me alone."
"Like what your wife and your child with her did? I was thinking of moving on from
you but then, I saw that Leanna doesn't love you anymore. She. Doesn't. Love. You!"
I slapped her.
Bumaling sa gilid ang mukha niya. She slowly touched her cheek, her mouth slightly
open and shock was all over her. Nagulat din ako sa ginawa ko pero hindi ko
pinahalata.
"Kahit hindi niya na 'ko mahal, I'll make sure that she'll be trapped with me.
After all, she's still my wife and it'll remain that way even if I die."
Mariin kong sabi bago siya talikuran at umalis. I left her with full determination.
Gagawin ko ang lahat.
I will get my wife back.

Chapter 31
Leanna
MY TEARS started falling. I'm scared and my body hurts. Somebody shouted for help.
It blended with the loud sound of the raindrops.
Was that me? I don't even know because I'm really scared...
Putting my hands to cover my mouth, I silently sobs to suppress the noise within
this four small walls.
Ayokong marinig nila ako. Tiyak na makikita ako ng mga bad guys tapos kukunin nila
'ko.
Where is Blakey? Blakey will save me. Pero galit siya sa'kin... I'm scared. I want
to see him. He'll protect me with the bad guys.
I had a tummy ache after I fell down the stairs. Pilit kong iniinda ang sakit ng
tiyan ko kanina at gumapang bago tumakbo palabas. Hanggang ngayon masakit parin. I
felt my legs got wet awhile back but maybe it was just because of the rain. Now,
I'm wet all over.
"Aww..." Mas lalong sumakit ang tiyan ko.
I don't know what to do... Nanginginig ako sa lamig at masakit ang katawan ko. I
hugged myself and told myself not to cry. The pain got unbearable.
Gusto kong sumigaw pero hindi pwede. I bit my lips and leaned back. Gusto kong
humiga at ibaluktot ang katawan ko kaso maliit ang dog house. I can't go out. I'm
safe here.
"B-Blakey...h-help me." The pain will pass. It'll pass...
Ang kailangan ko lang gawin ay pumikit...
Nagising ako nang walang nararamdamang sakit. I couldn't feel anything except for
pure exhaustion. There's also something on my mouth.
Parang wala akong lakas. Anong nangyari?
Pagbukas ko ng aking mga mata ay agad din itong napasara. I groaned.
Why is everything so bright? My eyes hurt.
"Darling, are you okay?" That's daddy's voice... "I'll get the doctor."
Opening my eyes again, I blinked a couple of times before my eyes could adjust to
the light. Tuluyan kong nakita ang mukha ni daddy na nakadungaw sa'kin. Puno ng
lungkot at pag-aalala ang kanyang mukha.
Seeing him like that made my tears fall. Agad kong naalala ang mga nangyari. The
bad men and how scare I was. Bumalik lahat 'yon at hindi ko naiwasang mapahagulgol.
It was just muffled cries because of that thing on my mouth.
I saw daddy panicked. "Leanna, darling calm down." Pinisil niya ang aking kamay
bago siya napalingon.
It's my turn to panic when I saw a man wearing a white coat rushed on my side.
Daddy kept on saying that it's gonna be okay but the bad man was getting closer to
me. He will hurt me. I know he will.
Sinusubukan kong galawin ang katawan ko pero ayaw. The man reached his hands to me.
Agad akong napapikit at gumaralgal ang aking paghinga. I heard some wild beeping
sound then a pinch on my arm. Ang inaasahan kong sakit ay hindi dumating.
Nakaramdam ako ng ginhawa nang matanggal ang nasa aking bibig.
"Leanna, it's okay..."
"D-daddy..." My voice cracked. I looked at the man and then daddy, asking for help.
My daddy saw my distress and said something to him.
Umalis ang masamang lalaki pero hindi parin nawawala ang takot ko. What if he
returns? He will hurt me and my daddy.
"Dad-dy..." Naluluha kong sabi. May inabot siya sa gilid bago ako bigyan at
painumin ng tubig. Kahit papaano ay guminhawa ang pakiramdam ko sa dibdib nang
maubos ko ito pero naiwan parin ang takot. Daddy wiped my tears before hugging me.
"No one will hurt you again, darling. It's okay. Daddy's here to protect you now. I
won't leave you, I promise."
"There were bad m-en..."
"Shh... They're gone now. Daddy took care of it."
"Don't leave me daddy..." I said snuggling to him.
Hinaplos niya ang aking buhok. "I promise, darling."
I felt him kissed my head before I felt tired again to sleep.
I woke up with daddy's voice. He's talking to someone but I didn't hear the other
person reply. Nakatalikod si daddy at may hawak na cellphone sa kanyang tenga.
"Osias had security cameras installed in his house. Find them. I want them rot in
jail."
Hearing Blakey's name made me felt the excitement. I want to see him so immediately
called my daddy's attention. Lumingon siya sa'kin at lumapit.
"Give me updates later." Binaba niya ang cellphone at tinulungan akong umupo. "Are
you feeling better, darling?" He asked with a warm smile.
I nodded. "Where is Blakey, daddy?" Nawala ang ngiti niya at hindi agad nakasagot.
I tilted my head on the side and observed how his jaw clenched.
"He's working, darling. Hindi pa siya makakapunta dito."
"But I want Blakey..." Napayuko ako at pinaglaruan ang mga daliri.
"I know, Leanna but he's busy."
"When is he not busy?"
"Soon..." I heard him sigh. Daddy held my hand and squeezed them. "That's why you
need to be strong and recover. He'll soon come back."
Nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya. "Really? How soon, daddy?"
"Faster than you think. I promise."
He smiled and I smiled at him too. "Okay."
Daddy said he'll come back. Daddy won't lie to me because he's a good guy. Only bad
guys lie.
Alanganin akong tumingin kay daddy bago magtanong. "Will M-Mana Anita come h-here?"
Mabilis na nawala ang ngiti sa kanya. "We will never see her from now on, Leanna.
Hindi ka na niya masasaktan."
Napanatag ako sa mga sinabi niya. Does this mean we're safe? She will not hurt me
again?
Biglang bumukas ang pinto at may pumasok. Una babae pero agad akong naalarma at
naluluhang tinignan ang dalawang lalaking sumunod. Isa sa kanila ay ung naka white
coat tapos may nakasabit sa leeg. The other one has light blue pants and shirt
similar to the girl.
"We're here for the daily check-up, Don Leandro."
I looked at daddy. He nodded and stood up. "N-No!" Hinawakan ko braso ni daddy.
"I'm scared, daddy. B-Bad guys... Bad g-guys."
"They're here to see if you're alright, darling. They're your doctor and nurses.
Don't be afraid."
"No, d-daddy... No! Please. I'm a good girl but they still hurt me when Mama Anita
left. They're going to hurt us... You p-promised not to l-leave me."
Nagdilim ang tingin ni daddy. He looked mad with his ceased forehead and clenched
jaw. I was not afraid. Daddy wouldn't hurt me.
"What did they ever do to you..."
"Daddy, please..."
My vision was blurry and my heart started beating fast. Naalala ko ung mga
nangyari, those bad guys and then they hurt Manang, me and even Tammy.
These men looked like good guys but I was still scared of them. I didn't want any
men near me except for daddy and Blakey.
Concern and worry laced in daddy's eyes. Pinunasan niya ang aking mga luha bago
tumango. Humigpit ang kapit ko at sumiksik sa braso ni daddy habang kinakausap niya
ang dalawang lalaki.
"I'm sorry, doc."
"It's fine, Don Leandro. I undersetand." The man with the coat looked at me and I
immediately looked away, hiding deep behind daddy's arm.
"I'll request for a replacement doctor and nurses to be all woman. Can I talk to
you about something later?" he added.
"I'll go to your office." Daddy said.
Nang umalis sila ay hindi ko parin binibitawan ang braso ni daddy. I buried my gaze
to the doorknob. Hindi ito naka-lock kaya hindi ako mapakali. Gusto kong tumayo
pero nanghihina parin ang mga tuhod ko.
Daddy tapped my hands making me look up at him. "They're gone now."
Bumalik ang tingin ko sa seradura at tinuro ito. "But the door's not locked. Sarado
mo po, daddy."
Tumango siya. Nang umalis si daddy sa tabi ko ay kinabahan ako. I don't feel secure
without him. That made me thought of Blakey.
I always feel secured also when he's around. And happy to, pero sabi ni daddy
babalik siya. Maybe he's working again.
"Anong gusto mong kainin, anak ko? I'll order whatever it is." Daddy asked softly.
My uneasiness disappeared.
"Cake!" My immediate answer made him show a true smile. Hinaplos niya ang aking noo
at tinabig ang mga buhok sa aking mukha bago hawiin patalikod. Kagayang kagaya ng
ginagawa ni Blakey sa'kin 'pag inaayos niya ang buhok ko.
Suddenly, my heart felt pain. Napasimangot ako sa lungkot.
"What's wrong, darling? Do you want your cake now?"
Umiling ako. "I miss, Blakey."
Umalis siya sa tabi ko bago kunin ang magandang bakal na upuan at inilagay sa tabi
ng kama. He sat on it before taking my hand.
"Listen, anak... Osias is doing something for me. He left you that's why you got
hurt and you know I don't want my only daughter to be hurt by anyone so I asked him
to take care of something."
"Work?"
"No, darling. Pero 'wag kang mag-alala, madali lang 'yon kaso nga lang ay baka
matagalan siya. Do you understand me, darling?"
"Matagal? How long?"
Malungkot siyang ngumiti. "Not that long but I promise that you'll be with him
after."
"Can I see him?"
"No. I'm sorry, darling..."
Bumagsak ang mga balikat ko kasabay ng aking mga luha. "But I want to see h-him..."
Daddy immediately went to my side and hugged me. "It's okay... Diba sabi ko mabilis
lang 'yon. Why won't we do something you used to do while waiting for him? Do you
want that?"
I tiredly nodded against daddy's chest. "Watch TV with Manang Jo-"
Ay oo nga pala! Bigla kong naitulak si daddy. Bahagya siyang nagulat. Dinungaw at
hinaplos ko ang aking impit na tiyan.
"What is it?"
Tiningala ko siya nang may malaking ngiti sa aking mga labi. "Manang Josie said I
have a baby in my tummy. When will my baby come, daddy? I want my baby to be like
Janine. That's Renz's baby. She's so small and cute and-"
"Darling..." Daddy cut me off. Puno ng lungkot ang kanyang mga mata na nagpataka
sa'kin. He's eyes also showed unshed tears before a tear fell from it.
"Why are you crying, daddy?" Pinunasan ko ito. "Don't cry... It's okay."
"I'm sorry, darling but Manang Josie has mistaken."
"About what?"
"You..." He took in a deep breath. "Y-You don't have a b-baby."
"W-What? But... But Manang said I have. Did she lie? Hindi siya nagsisinungaling!
Only bad guys lie like the two men who hurt us and Mama Anita! Totoo 'yon! I have a
baby! It's in here!"
Hinawakan kong muli ang aking tyan. Sunud sunod ang pagtulo ng aking mga luha
hanggang sa humagulgol ako. Daddy hugged me again but his warmth couldn't stop me
from wailing like a when I lost my mommy.
It hurts! My chest hurts. Ito ang pinaka masakit na naramdaman ko. Mas masakit pa
'to kesa noong sinasaktan ako nila Mama Anita.
I wanted not to cry but I can't. Daddy is crying too, I know but he kept on telling
me that everything will be alright.
Everything will not be alright. I thought I have a baby but then it was gone. I
couldn't have the one thing that I want to have the most.
Dumaan ang araw nang hindi ko naramdaman ang kasiyahan. I couldn't feel the
happiness even when daddy gave me the foods I liked, even the cake. The pain lessen
a bit as time passed by. Halos makalimutan ko na nga.
Hindi umalis si daddy sa tabi ko. May dumating dito na babae, suot ang puting coat
na gaya sa lalaki kahapon. She said she's my new doctor. She's pretty with her long
hair tied on the back of her head. She's tall and I think she's nice. 'Pag gising
ko kinabukasan ay wala si daddy pero andyan ung pretty doctor.
When the nurses came, I started to panic. Nagwala ako dahil pilit nila akong
hinahawakan.
"What is going on here!?" Napaharap ako sa pinto sa sigaw ni daddy.
"Daddy!" I cried. I reached my right hand to him. One bad man's holding the other.
"Let her go!" I hugged him tight the moment he came to my side. "I requested for
male nurses! Why are there men in this room!"
"I'm sorry, Don Leandro. Wala nang ibang available na babaeng nurse. Her other
female nurse is on sick leave kaya wala kaming nakuhang iba."
"Didn't you know that she has trauma?"
Daddy kept shouting at them while I was crying against his chest. Hindi ko alam
kung ga'no na katagal pero nang inangat ni daddy ang mukha ko ay wala na sila.
"They're gone, darling."
Mabilis akong umiling. "No. Babalik sila. The door's not locked again..."
Nanginginig kong sabi habang nakatingin sa pinto.
Daddy left me. I gripped the sheets tight while I watched him locked the door.
Napapitlag ako nang may humawak sa braso ko.
"You're safe now, Leanna."

"Mommy B-Betty?"
She smiled but her eyes showed pity and sadness. "How are you, Leanna?"
My lips quivered. "Mommy Betty... I m-miss B-Blakey..."
"I know you do and he misses you too." Hinaplos niya ang braso ng marahan. Daddy
stood near her, looking at us. "He said that he'll come back for you so you need to
be strong while you wait for him, okay?"
"O-Okay..." I said okay but my tears won't stop falling.
"You will be s-strong, right? For you and Osias?" Naluha na rin si Mommy Betty
habang nagsasalita.
I nodded and wiped my tears with the back of my hands. Unfortunately, my eyes kept
dropping more.
Why wont they stop!?
"Is it okay if I leave you here with your Bettina, darling? I need to call
someone..."
I nodded. "I made you some food. Are you hungry?"
This time, I nodded at Mommy Betty who lifted a paper bag in front of her.
Kinuwentuhan niya 'ko habang kumakain ako. She told me also about what Blakey's
doing. Blakey's away to find the bad men who hurt me.
Kinabahan ako. "No. What if they hurt him!?"
"Don't worry, Leanna. He's inside a big house and lot's of people are protecting
him. They can't hurt him." She assured.
Lumipas ang maraming araw. Tanging ung pretty doctor lang ang pumupunta maliban kay
Mommy Betty at Daddy. She's nice and I liked her.
There this time na narinig kong sinabi niya kay daddy na kailangan daw niya ng
makakatulong na nurse. Daddy refused because she recommended men.
Umayos ang pakiramdam ko. Daddy said I'm ready to go back home but I need a nurse
to be with me all the time. I also needed to have a session with a psychiatrist and
also for physical therapy.
Hindi ko alam kung ano 'yon.
After I ate, I fell asleep. 'Pag gising ko ay may lalaki akong natanaw malapit sa
lamesa. His back was facing me and he's looking down while doing something before
scratching the skin near his right ear. That's when I saw it.
He was holding a knife!
Taranta kong umupo at hinanap si daddy. He's not here. He left me! Where did he go?
I covered my mouth with my hand so that he couldn't hear my audible heavy

breathing.
Bumukas ang pinto sa banyo. Daddy came out and went to the guy. I wanted to tell
him no but my voice won't come out because of how scared I was. He's getting closer
to the bad guy.
He's going to hurt my daddy!
Naghanap ako ng kung ano sa paligid ko. I saw daddy's phone so I picked it up threw
it across the room where the bad man was standing.
Napalingon sila pareho sa ref kung sa'n tumama ung binato 'ko.
"Darling, what are you doing?" Hinihingal akong napatingin kay daddy na palapit
sa'kin. I'm almost near to crying.
"He's... b-bad g-guy." Nauutal kong sabi.
"No, anak. He's your new nurse."
Napatingin ako sa lalaki at napasinghap.
"Should we do a speech therapy and massage your throat again? Akala ko okay na ang
pagsasalita mo?"
Malaki ang ngiti niyang sabi.
"Terrence." I whispered.
"Kamusta na, baby doll?"

Chapter 32
Maraming error. Pasensya na po.
I'M SITTING on a black, long, comfy chair in the middle of a room, my legs are
stretch in front. There are paintings of gardens with flowers and butterflies on
one side and mountains and green fields on the other side of the room.
May isang maliit na bookshelf din na puno ng iba't ibang mga libro. May maliit at
may malalaki. Merong mga makapal at maninipis.
The room is illuminate by the sun rays from the open windows with curtains being
dance by the wind.
Everything inside this room was created to let anyone feel safe and comfortable.
But I'm not.
Gusto ko nang umuwi...
"I know it's hard for you, Leanna but you need to face your fears before you can
conquer them..."
I looked down and played with my fingers. "I want my daddy..."
"Your daddy's always gonna be there for you. Don't worry, Leanna." She softly said.
"Let's do it again."
Daddy said that this new lady doctor would take my fears away but she made me
afraid more. Gusto niyang isipin ko ang nangyari no'n. Simula noong dumating sina
Mama Anita.
Umiling iling ako habang nanatiling nakayuko. Wanting to see her reaction, I look
up to see her scribbling something down on her notebook. No'n ko lang din siya
napansin ng maiigi. She looked old but not that old. Parang si Mommy Betty.
Nakasuot siya ng magandang violet dress tapos may coat na black, naka-pony ang
buhok. Nag-iwas agad ako nang makita siyang papatingin.
"Let's try it another way but I need you to trust me first, okay?"
Hindi ako sumagot. "Do you believe na magagawa kang saktan ng daddy mo?"
No. Daddy never hurts me. He will never do that kaya naman mabilis akong umiling.
Napangiti siya. "Your daddy trusted me with you. I won't do anything to hurt you
because that means your daddy wants to hurt you too and I know that your daddy
loves you so much. Tama ba ko?"
"Daddy loves me..."
"Everybody knows that." Aniya.
My head tilted to the side. I'm confuse.
If she'd hurt me, daddy would be hurting me too? Mama Anita did.
'Pag ginawa ko ba ang sinabi niya, matutuwa siya tapos ibig sabihin matutuwa din si
daddy? Medyo naguluhan ako sa sinabi niya pero isa lang ang alam ko, hindi ako
sasaktan ni daddy kaya kailangan sumunod ako sa kanya.
"But I don't want to remember..."
"That's okay, Leanna. All you need to do is close your eyes. Listen to the sound
that I'll be making and tell me what you think. It's easy, right?"
Tumango ako bilang pagsang-ayon. Madali lang naman. Ayoko na talagang maalala ang
mga nangyari. They're painful and scary.
Ginawa ko ang mga sinabi niya nang magsimula kami. Madali nga lang noong una gaya
ng sabi niya. With my eyes closed, I told her the first thing I thought of with the
sounds.
First were dog barks. Naalala ko si doggie at softie. Then sounds of giggling
babies. It made me missed Janine. There were also sounds of cars and birds and even
people talking.
I answered them fast pero noong sumunod ay nahirapan na 'ko. People shouting and
laughing. Then there were a sound of glass being shattered, raindrops and slaps. I
couldn't answer anymore.
"Anong naaalala mo sa tunog ng ulan?" My grips tightened on my skirt. Raindrops

made me remember bad things.
I don't want to answer it.
The door opened. I went stiffed and nervous, my still closed eyes were shut
tighter. Images of Mama Anita coming in with the bad guys haunted me.
"Doktora may pinapasabi po si Doc Naig. Importante lang daw po." Nakahinga ako ng
maluwag nang ibang boses ang narinig ko.
"Sige. Sandali lang. We can stop now, Leanna." Aniya na nagpadilat sa'kin. "You can
wait here. Your personal nurse will come and pick you up."
Iiwanan niya ko dito? I frowned but nodded. Tumayo siya sa upuan bago lumabas.
Napabuntong ako nang mawala siya at lumingon lingon sa paligid.
Anong gagawin ko dito? Kelan kaya dadating si Terrence?
Napatingin ako sa mga libro. Gusto kong magbasa pero baka magalit siya 'pag ginalaw
ko ang kanyang mga libro. She'd scold me for sure.
Minutes passed and more minutes passed. Terrence's still not here and being alone
in a room while sitting on a big chair got me nothing else to do but be bored.
Nilingon ko ang pinto sa aking likod. Gusto ko nang lumabas. Nasa'n na ba si daddy
at si Terrence. Maybe they're working like Blakey.
I missed Blakey. I heart sunk of the thought. I wanted to see him.
Sa'n nga ba ung office niya? Gusto ko siyang puntahan at makita. Malayo kaya 'yon?
Hindi ko na matandaan kung sa'n siya nagwo-work pero alam ko kasama niya si daddy
kasi noon, pinuntahan din namin si daddy. Same sila ng building.
Napangiti ako at bumaba sa upuan. Tama! I'll visit him tapos iki-kiss ko siya at
iha-hug. He always liked my hugs and kisses.
Walang ganong tao sa pasilyo. I'm not sure where to go but I think I remember the
way we took earlier when we went here.
Nang makita ko ang elevator ay pumasok na 'ko. Dalawa lang kami nang babaeng nurse
na sumakay. I kept my head down while she pressed some buttons.
Should I pressed something too?
Gusto kong pumindot pero ramdam ko siya na tumitingin sa'kin. Naghintay nalang ako.
The room got crowded every time the door opened and people come in and out. Meron
pa ngang naka-upo sa wheel chair. Napunta ako sa pinakalikod nang mapuno na ang
elevator.
Hindi ko alam ang gagawin nang bumaba silang lahat. Lumabas na din ako pero pa
linga linga ako sa paligid.
I know this place. This is where daddy, Terrence and I entered earlier. The
entrance.
Nasa'n na kaya sila? Ayoko nang bumalik para magpaalam. Pupuntahan ko lang naman si
Blakey.
Nang papalapit ako sa malaking pinto ng ospital ay parami ng parami ang tao. Mga
nagmamadali. Someone's telling me that going out might not be a good idea but the
excitement on seeing Blakey was more louder so I kept on going.
People blocked the entrance. Men in white uniform in particular, guards. It made me
shiver thinking about going near them or any men so I made sure to stay away from
them.
Sumiksik ako at nakisabay sa ilang mga lumabas. Yung iba kasi ayaw nilang
papasukin. Bumuga ako ng hininga ng makalabas ako bago malawak na ngumiti.
I'm going to see Blakey today and it makes me happy.
Nilingon kong muli ang mga taong nagkakagulo. One guard looked at me. Kumunot ang
noo niya na parang kinikilala ako. Umawang ang labi niya bago ako senyasan na
lumapit.
I panicked so I ran. "Miss Leanna!"
Hearing my name made me run more pero hindi pa 'ko nakakalayo ay may biglang
humarang sa'kin.
I stopped and stepped back. He was wearing eyeglasses, holding a paper, pen and
camera on the other hand.
"Miss Leanna, anong masasabi mo't nakakulong na ang si Ma'am Anita na divorced na
kay Don Leandro?"
Napapikit ako nang kuhanan niya 'ko ng larawan. Kinusot ko ang aking mga mata at
ganon na lamang ang gulat at kaba ko nang pagdilat ko ng aking mga mata,
napapalibutan na 'ko ng maraming tao.
They were loud, asking me questions over questions.
Who are these people? Sabay sabay sila. Wala akong maintindihan. Natatakot ako.
Pinalibutan nila ako na parang mga lobong nag-aabang sa isang tupa. Nakakatakot!
Pa'no nalang kapag sabay sabay nila akong inatake. Hindi ko alam ang gagawin.
"I don't know! L-Leave me a-alone!" Someone pushed me. Napa-aray ako at nagsimulang
tumulo ang aking mga luha sa takot.
Someone help me! Napapunas ako ng luha at napatakip ng mga tenga. Everything got
blurry.
May mga ilang tumutulak sa'kin. Ang mga iba ay sumisigaw, nagtatanong at mga
kumukuha ng larawan.
How about your step-sister? Did she also abuse you like your ex-step-mother?
Anong masasabi niyo sa pagkakakulong sa asawa niyo?
Ang huling tanong na narinig ko ay tumatak sa aking isipan. What did they mean
about that? Nakulong ba sa office si Blakey?
"Lumayo kayo sa kanya!" Dumating ang mga guards at isa isa silang nilayo sa'kin.
Narinig ko nalang sa gitna ng mga ingay na may tumawag sa'kin bago may humawak sa
kamay ko at humila.
He covered me with his body, protecting and hiding me from those scary and noisy
people. Pinatong niya ang palad sa ulo ko para payukuin ako bago kami
nakipagsiksikan palabas sa nagkakagulong grupo kasama ng mga guards.
Nang makapasok kami muli sa loob ay sinapo niya ang mukha ko bago iangat. "Okay ka
lang ba, baby doll?"
"T-Terrence..."
"Bakit ka lumabas ng kwarto?" Nag-aalala niyang tanong.Napayakap ako sa kanya at

umiyak. "Uuwi na tayo, okay?" I nodded against his shirt. "Let's go."
Sobra sobrang takot ang naramdaman ko kanina. Hindi ko sila kilala pero sinaktan
nila 'ko. Who were those people and why did they like hurting and scaring me?
Gustong gusto ko nang makita si Blakey. Nang makauwi kami ay wala do'n si daddy.
When he arrived, he looked mad.
"Find out every single one of them. I don't care what happened. I want all her
pictures deleted. Sue them if needed."
Pinapanood ko lang si daddy habang nakaupo sa sofa at hinahaplos ko ang katawan ni

Softie. He kept talking fast and he's angry at someone on the phone but I knew that
it's about what happened earlier.
Dumating si Terrence dala ang ilang mga inumin at pagkain. Kasunod niya si Doggie
na kumakawag kawag ang buntot. Doggie is big now and has more spots. He's a
Dalmatian.
I really thanked Terrence for taking care of them. He took care of them after Ate
Penelope took them away from me.
When daddy finished his call, I asked him if I could go and see Blakey. He said not
yet.
Naiinip na 'ko. Ang dami nang araw kong hinintay si Blakey pero hindi naman siya
dumadating. Ang tagal matapos ng trabaho niya.
Bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Terrence. Dito na siya nakatira sa bahay para daw
mabantayan ako. Nagtataka naman ako nang hindi ko makita si Mama Anita. I knew Ate
Penelope's still here but I didn't see her often. Terrence said daddy sent her to a
vacation.
That's good.
"Kakain na tayo..."
"I don't want to eat. I want Blakey." He sighed and walked closer. Agad akong
nagtalukbong ng kumot. Naramdaman ko siyang umupo sa gilid ng kama.
"Makikita mo rin si Osias pero kailangan mo munang kumain."
"No."
"Sige na, baby doll."
"I want Blakey."
The days passed and I felt more and more sad because I couldn't see Blakey. I cried
every time daddy said not yet. I know they're frustrated but I really want to see
Blakey. I didn't want to do anything without him.
I want to see his smile and feel all his hugs and kisses. Gusto kong kumain kasabay
siya tapos aayusin niya ang buhok ko bago kami matulog.
Kinabukasan sinabi ni daddy na aalis kami. He never brought me to the hospital to
meet the lady doctor again. Ang sabi niya ibang doktor na ang kakausap sa'kin.
He also said that we'll go to see some Kangaroos. I didn't know that it was an
animal at first but then Terrence showed me some pictures and I wanted to see them.
Terrence helped me with the things that I'd bring. Nilalagay niya lahat sa isang
malaking maleta. Iniwan ko siya sa kwarto ko kasi naiinip akong panoorin siya.
Softie and Doggie was playing on the living room. Softie stopped and run at me when
he saw me making Doggie followed. Umupo ako at nahangiting niyakap sila.
Hindi ko mararamdaman ang pagdating ni Manang Rosa kung hindi niya 'ko kinamusta.
"May nais ka ba, Leanna?"
Tumayo ako at umiling. "Nothing."
"Sige. Kukuha ako ng meryenda para kay Don Leandro. Gusto mo rin ba, hija?"
Her soft and caring voice made me thought of Manang Josie. I also missed her.
Siguro pupunta ako kay daddy para magtanong ulit.
Umalis ba si daddy ngayon? Alam ko hindi eh kaya umakyat ako sa study room niya.
Nakaawang ang pinto do'n kaya't rinig ko ang boses ni daddy. He sounded frustrated
again and he's talking to a woman. I immediately knew that it was from Mommy Betty.
Maybe dad would allow me to go with her to see Blakey.
"'Wag mo siyang ilayo sa anak ko, Leandro. You both have a deal." I can hear Mommy
Betty's desperate voice. They're talking about Blakey. Hindi na 'ko pumasok at
nakinig nalang.
"And I'm not breaking it. The deal is him spending a year there. I'm not breaking
anything." Is daddy talking about Blakey's office?
"But you know what it would do to them."
"I know pero lalaki ang anak mo. He can handle that. Babae ang sa'kin. Do you know
what I feel every time she gets scared of people-of men! Kahit sa driver namin
takot siya! I want to fix my daughter. Kasalanan ko kung bakit siya gano'n. Kung
hindi lang sana..."
"Don't blame yourself, Leandro. Isang tao lang ang dapat sisihin dito."
"Your son also did his part." Natahimik do'n si Mommy Betty. "My daughter will be
left alone while he takes care of his mistress and their baby." Dagdag pa ni daddy
na parang nandidiri.
Baby? Blakey's having a baby? Pa'no? Kanino?
"I know that my son made a mistake but he's doing his best to make it right."
"That kind of mistake can never be turn right."
"Leandro, please..." She pleaded.
Umiling lamang si daddy. "Babalik kami ayon sa napagkasunduan. You may go."
I heard sounds of clicking heels so I rushed to move away from the there.
Daddy said he's going to have a baby with his mistress. I knew that a mistress was.
That's what made Jim fell out of love with Cleo on the koreanovela. Another woman.
Sa palabas, kinikisan at hina-hug din ni Jim ung mistress niya. Ginagawa din ba
'yon ni Blakey sa iba?
Nag-init ang gilid ng aking mga mata. Tapos magkaka baby na sila. Does Blakey love
his mistress? Pa'no na 'ko?
Pababa na 'ko ng makita ko ang isang malaking picture namin nila mommy. Ngayon ko
lang ito napansin malapit sa hagdan. 'Yung picture na pinatanggal ni Mama Anita
noon.
Bumigat ang puso ko nang makita ang mukha ni mommy at daddy na nakangiti. Dad's
hand was on mommy's waist. Mommy was carrying me when I was only a little baby. I
was looking at her, reaching my hands out to her while they looked in front.
I touched her face. I wished she was here. Maraming bagay akong hindi maintindihan.
Kahit na konti lang ang ala-ala ko sa kanya, miss na miss ko na siya ng sobra.
"Baby doll, sa'n ka nagpunta?" Napalingon ako kay Terrence, binaba ko ang aking
kamay. "Is there something wrong? Umiyak ka ba?"
Umiling ako at tinignan muli si mommy.
"You missed her..." He stated.
Naramdaman ko ang paglapit niya. Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko at napantingin ako
do'n.
"Do you know that a mother is the first angel of a child?"
Nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya. "Angel?"
"Oo. Kaya kahit wala na siya sa tabi mo, alam kong binabantayan ka niya kasama ng
ibang mga angels do'n."
"Can she be an angel here with me? I want to hug her..."
"We can't do anything about that." His gripped tightened. It didn't hurt. It was
comforting rather.
"But don't worry. Me and your daddy can take her place. Sisiguraduhin naming wala
nang mananakit sa'yo. Na magiging masaya ka na."
Pinagmasdan ko siya. Ang mga tingin at ngiti niya ay nagsasabing siguradong

sigurado siya sa mga sinabi.
Naniniwala ako sa kanya. Wala nang mananakit sa'kin at magiging masaya na 'ko. I'll
try to be happy but I know in my heart that there's only one person that can do
that.
But he's out there with his mistress and their baby.
Chapter 33
DADDY told me that I needed to be strong, that I needed to recover. That I needed
to face my fears and defeat them.
Hindi ko siya maintindihan noong una. Sanay na kong matakot. Sanay na kong laging
nag-iisip kung kalian dadating si Mama Anita at ate Penelope para saktan ako.
Pain, sadness and being beaten.
Those were the things that I always thought about until he came.
Blakey helped me thought about things other than what my step-family brought me. He
made me thought of him coming home, carrying a box of cake that we'd eat. Made me
thought of what we would do on weekends. Where we'd go, what restaurant we'd eat
in, what toys he'd give me, how he'd braid my hair, how many hugs and sweet kisses
we would share or even how I would see him when I wake up the next day.
He made me thought of happiness.
The happiness that I'm currently missing. The only thing that makes me crave-
desperate to have again for the past six months.
"Another. Put some more force!" I gave my trainer combinations of punches then a
final right hook.
Umungol ako, inilagay lahat ng lakas sa huling suntok sa kanyang tiyan. Napaatras
siya ng konti.
"Impressive. You're getting better." Aniya at ngumiti.
Ngumiti ako pabalik. "Thanks, coach."
Bumaba ako sa boxing rink. Napatingin ako kay Terrence na papalapit, dala ang
malawak na ngiti. Nakasuot siya ng kanyang workout attire, sandong itim, grey
jogging pants at nike shoes habang nakasabit sa kanyang kaliwang balikat ang isang
gym bag.
Halos pareho lang kami ng suot. Itim na leggings lang ang sa'kin.
Humito siya sa harap ko. Pinadausdos ang strap sa balikat at marahang nilapag ang
bag sa pagitan namin bago abutin ang aking kamay.
"He's right. You are really getting better." Aniya habang tinatanggal ang gloves sa
aking kaliwang kamay.
"Your work-up's done?"
"Yup. Kanina pa. Hinintay lang kita..." Nag-angat siya sakin ng tingin saglit bago
sinunod ang pagtanggal sa kabila.
Pinanood ko lamang siya habang inaalala ang lahat ng mga ginawa niya para sa'kin.
Si Terrence ang naging personal nurse ko pero higit pa siya do'n. Siya ay isa sa
mga taong tumulong sa'kin para baguhin ang aking sarili.
He helped me be stronger. Physically, mentally but not emotionally.
He and daddy always say that I should stop asking about my husband. To move on.
Move on from what? I'm not so sure. Wala silang sinasabi sa'kin na kahit ano.
I regularly go to all of my treatments. Boxing's just one of it. Physical therapy

was also one and also with my psychiatrist.
I have been improving. Lumakas ang pangangatawan ko at kahit papa'no, naayon ang
aking pag-iisip sa aking edad.
Naiintindihan ko na ang ilang mga bagay na Malabo sa'kin noon.
Gaya ng ginawa sa'kin ng step family ko. I hated the fact that they could hurt a
six year old child. I hated how they treated me and how they took me away from my
father.
How they stripped me from happiness that I should've gotten from them, the
education that I should've had, the toys, the dresses, my teddy bears, the shoes,
my pets-my entire childhood.
I hated them.
"Why did you lie?" Kunot noo siyang napasulyap ng tingin sa'kin habang kinakalkal
ang bag niya.
I placed my gloves in before he took a towel and handed it to me.
"Lied about what? I can't remember anything about lying to you..." Bakas ang
pagtataka sa boses niya. Hindi niya alam ang tinutukoy ko.
Kinuha ko muna ang pamunas at nagpunas bago ko siya sinagot.
"Not to me but to my father." Lalong kumunot ang noo niya. "About Penelope and me.
Why Terrence?"
Looking away from me, I can see the obvious change of his reactions. He's guilty
but regret nothing. Would that mean he wanted to do that?
Tinanggal ko ang tingin sa kanya at sumimangot. Kung gano'n isa rin pala siya sa
kanila. He wanted that to happen to me.
I thought he's a nice guy but...
"It's fine. Halika na! I'm joining daddy for lunch. I don't wanna be late."
I chirped with excitement while picking up my gym bag.
"I'm sorry..." I stopped but not looking at him.
"I told you it's fine. Don't worry about it."
"No!" Mabilis niyang sabi kasabay pagdating ng isa naming kasamahay sa gym na
walang pantaas.
"Hi, Leanna." Napalingon ako kay Dean.
"Hi, Dean..."
"I see that you're ready to go. Maybe you would like to have a coffee with me right
now? My treat."
Bahagya akong ngumiti. "Maybe next time. I'll be meeting my dad in ten minutes. I
need to go."
"Oh c'mon, Lee. You've been hurting my feeling whenever I ask you out. Just one
coffee."
Nawala ang ngiti ko. Hindi dahil sa paghagod niya ng tingina sa katawan ko kung
hindi dahil sa tinawag niya sa'kin.
That's why I didn't wanna get close to him. It's not that I didn't like him, it's
just hearing that name made me felt a sting of pain and melancholic.
"I think you're used to rejection, Dean." Terrence suddenly said. Dala niya na ang
mga gamit niya.
Umismid ang isa. "Last time I check, you're not her boyfriend."
He stepped closer to Terrence. Both men engaged with a heated stares. Halos pantay
lang ang dalawa sa pangangatawan. Matangkad lang ng isa o dalawang pulgada si Dean.
Kasama ko lagi si Terrence sa mga exercise at workouts. We both gained benefits

through that.
Hindi na siya gaya ng dating medyo payat. Sa katunayan, pareho kami ng

pangangatawan dati pero mas gumanda ang tindig namin pareho. He had more defined
muscles. His broad shoulders became prominent and he's taller now.
He's what women called hot and manly.
"I'm so sorry, Dean but were in a hurry. Maybe next time. Not just coffee but with
cake. C'mon, Terrence."
Napilitang humiwalay ng tingin si Terrence sa kanya. Kinuha niya ang gamit ko

sa'kin bago sulyapan muli ng tingin si Dean sa huling pagkakataon.
We left Dean with a frown and annoyance.
Tahimik kami sa sasakyan. Siya ang nagmamaneho. Marunong narin ako at sabay kaming
nakakuha ng driver's license dito sa Canada.
Limang bwan na kami ditong naninirahan. Gusto ni daddy na dito ako mag-college.
Gusto ko rin 'yon ang kaso, kailangan ko munang makapasa sa exam next month para ma
accelerate ako. Currently, I'm homeschooling. It's quite challenging because I need
to take primary and secondary education at the same time.
"Leanna..."
"What is it?" Mabilis kong tanong nang nakangiti.
"I lied because-"
"You love her...."
Nakita ko ang pagtangis ng bagang niya habang nakatingin sa kalsada. Humigpit din
ang kapit niya sa manibela at nakakunot ang noo.
"Ang seryoso mo naman sa pagdri-drive." Mahina akong tumawa.
"I loved her." He stopped the car on the red light and quickly looked at me. "I
wanted to save her. Ayoko siyang makulong dahil mahal ko pa siya ng mga panahong
'yon."
I sighed. "Did daddy know about that?"

"Yes." Nagdrive muli siya. "Nagmakaawa akong 'wag niyang idamay si Penelope."
"So you're here because you didn't have a choice..."
"Hindi gano'n, baby doll. Noong una palang ay gusto na kitang tulungan. You know
that. Your father said he'd leave Penelope alone if I helped you but that's not why
I'm here." Nagpark muna siya bago Inabot ang aking kamay.
"I'm here because I want to continue helping you."
He did a comfortable squeeze on my hand. Napatingin ako do'n saglit bago muling
tinapatan ang kanyang mga tingin. Nababakas ang pagiging totoo ng kanyang mga
salita.
So he loved her that's why he lied for her.
That's the extend of being loved by him. Na kahit na mali ay gagawin niya para sa
babaeng mahal.
I envy Penelope. I want that kind of love too.
And I wanted to be with Blakey.
"Okay. I understand..."
"Do you forgive me?"
Mabilis ang naging pagtango ko. "But can you do something for me?"
"What is it?" Amused was laced in his eyes. "What flavor of cake now?"
"Hindi 'yon." I giggled before sighing. "I want to see Blakey. Help me."
The amusement had suddenly vanished. Biglang sumeryoso ang mukha niya.
"Sige na, Terrence..."
"You know your daddy won't-"
"Hindi naman niya nalalaman..."
It was the right time. Dad would be away for a month starting tomorrow for a
business meeting. Hindi niya mapapansin na wala kami.
Just had to turn on my roaming just in case he called me. Hindi ko alam kung gagana
'yon. Basta mag-iisip ako.
He said no. Bakas ang pagdadalawang isip kay Terrence pero gusto ko talagang makita
si Blakey.
After all, he's still my husband. Dapag lang na magsama kami kaya naman pinilit ko
siya. He can't resist me.
I knew that daddy and him would give me all I wanted that's why he said yes after a
bit of convincing. Nakarating na kami sa bahay nang pumayag siya.
"Yehey! Thank you so much, Terrence!" I shrieked and jumped a bit to hug him.
"Don Leandro will not be happy about this." He groaned.

I flashed him a big smile. "He won't know. I'll make sure of that!"
Isang matunog na halik sa pisngi ang premyong binigay ko bago nagkumahog na pumunta
sa kwarto ko. I even heard his laugh while I rushed upstairs.
Excited na 'ko. Makikita ko na si Blakey!
Matapos kong mag-ayos ay hinalungkat ko ang aking jewelry box. Kinuha ko ang isang
maliit na kahon.
There rested my ring. The ring that proves that I was Blakey's wife. That I was
Mrs. Alcazar.
Sinuot ko ito at manghang tinignan. Ang ganda talaga! It's simple gold ring with
three diamonds but this was really amazing for me.
Hinalikan ko ito at dali daling bumaba. Daddy might be waiting. Suot ko rin ang
necklace na regalo ni daddy no'n. Good thing daddy recovered it back.
"Are you sure you can handle yourself while I'm gone? Maybe I should not go. I'll
just postpone-"
"Daddy!" I giggled.
Andito kami sa airport at hinahatid ko siya. Babalik siya ng Australia para tignan
ang branch namin do'n.
He also said that he'd let his President took over our company for the meantime
just to be with me. Minsan lang din kasi kami magkita. Masyado siyang busy sa
trabaho at palipat lipat ng bansa.
I wrapped my arms around his arm and walked him through the departure area. His two
bodyguards behind us with his luggage.
"I can handle myself here, daddy. Kasama ko rin naman si Terrence."
He placed his hand over mine. "You know it's always hard for me to leave you."
"That's why you're going, right? After this, we'll have all the father-daughter
time we want."
"You're right. But I'll miss you, darling. Isang buwan din 'to."
"Thirty sleeps lang, daddy tapos babalik ka na."
Daddy let out a loud chuckle. Napatingin sa'min ang ilang tao pero hindi namin 'to
pinansin.
"You should know how to count days properly, darling not how many sleeps it would
be."
"Mas mabilis 'pag gano'n."
Ilang minuto pa ang lumipas bago tawagin ang flight ni daddy.
"Just call me if you need anything, darling. I love you."
"I love you too, daddy..." I said before we gave each other a tight hug.
Nagpaalam kami sa isa't isa pero bago 'yon, hiniling ko sa kanya na tanggalin ang
dalawang bodyguards na laging sumusunod sa'kin.
Though hindi ko sila maramdaman, alam kong andyan lang sila. Daddy fell for my
charms and promised to dismissed them.
My excitement skyrocketed. Tatlong tulog na lang at weekends na. Makikita ko na si

Blakey.
"Bye, Doggie! Bye, Softie!" Paalam ko sa mga aso kong tahul ng tahol mula sa gate.
Kinawayan ko din ang guards namin.
The people in our mansion thought that we're having a vacation on some beach but
we're really visiting the Philippines.
Sa byahe hindi ako makatulog. My heart was beating wildly and it kept me awake.
Terrence had his own sleep while I watched the night scene and the little buildings
getting bigger and bigger.
"Terrence, we're here. Wake up!"
He stilled before waking up. Tumingin muna siya sa bintana bago sa'kin. Ngumiti at
umiling siya.
"Ganyan ka ka-excite." Natatawa niyang sabi.
I tilted my head, confused while he looked at me with amusement. Nagulat ako nang
abutin niya ang aking seatbelt at kinabit. After a sec, the announcement to buckle
up came booming through the speakers.
Saka ko naramdaman ang antok nang mag check-in kami sa isang sikat na hotel. My
body's calling me to take a rest but I couldn't wait to see Blakey that's why I
convinced Terrence to go now.
We were in the lobby when I saw a little girl, about two or three came running in
the hotel with all smiles and laughter. Kasunod niya ang isang babaeng nakabistida
at maikli ang buhok na humahabol sa kanya.
Nang maabutan niya ang bata ay niyakap niya ito at binuhat. Siguro siya ang ina
nito. Nakakatuwa ang tunog ng mga tawa nila. Nakakainggit.
Parang may pumiga sa puso ko. Ito ang isang bagay na namulatan ko dahil sa therapy.
Hindi ko na 'to sinabi kayla daddy at Terrence. Hindi nila alam na alam ko na.
I once had a baby. My baby didn't even last a day after I knew about him.
My poor child.
"Baby doll, tara na. The taxi that I called is outside."
"Ito na po." I said, faking a smile.
Pinagbuksan ako ni Terrence ng pinto. Dali dali akong pumasok.
I was like a kid going to an amusement park or something. Hindi matago ang
excitement ko. Maya't maya ang turo ko sa mga kakaibang nakikita ko. Tinatawanan
lang ako ni Terrence hanggang sa naging pamilyar ang kalsada at mga paligid.
We're close. I knew it!
Kinakabahan ko nang pi-nark ni manong driver ang taxi malapit sa bahay namin.
Napahawak ako sa aking dibdib.
"What's wrong? Andito na tayo."
"Yeah, I know. It's just..."
"Kinakabahan ka." He stated.
I nodded. "You think he's there?"
He shrugged and we both looked at the place that was once my home.
Pa'no kung wala siya? Ano kayang mangyayari 'pag nakita niya 'ko? Alam niya ba ang
nangyari sa'kin?
I knew that daddy lied about him working about something. Alam kong nagtratrabaho
siya pero iba 'yon sa kung ano ang sinabi ni daddy sa'kin no'n.
Someone knocked on my side of the window. Sinenyasan naman ni Terrence si manong

driver para ibaba ang bintana.
"Sino pong hanap nila?" Ani ng lalaking may katandaan na.
"Ay hindi po. Pasensya na po." Sabi ni Terrence.
Ang akala siguro ni kuya sa kanila kami may kailangan. Sakto kasing naka-park kami
sa tapat ng bahay nila. Yung katabing bahay ni Blakey.
"Do'n po kami." Turo ko sa bahay namin.
"Ay do'n ba sa bahay ng mag-asawa?"
Mag-asawa? Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. Did he mean me and Blakey?
"Siguradong gising na ang mga 'yon, Miss. Lagi nilang pinapaarawan ang anak nila."
My heart stopped beating after hearing that. I immediately looked at our house.
Mag-asawa? Anak?
"Si attorney Alcazar po ang nakatira diyan diba?" Terrence asked to confirm.
"Oo. Siya nga pati ung anak nila at asawa niyang si Jackie. Maganda't mabait 'yon.
Laging nagbibigay ng ulam."
Natawa si kuya sa sinabi niya pero ako ay hindi magawa kahit ang ngumiti. Kinagat
ko ang aking labi dahil sa panginginig. Pinipigil ang nagbabadyang luha.
"Leanna..."
'My daughter will be left alone while he takes care of his mistress and their
baby.'
I remembered the day before we left this country. Daddy was talking with Mommy
Betty.
It's not true, right? Hindi magagawa ni Blakey sa'kin 'yon.
Mistress. Hindi pwede 'yon.
Pinaglaruan ko ang aking wedding ring. Ako ang asawa niya at wala nang iba.
"Baby doll..."
"Give me a s-sec. I'll just...ahhh..."
"Let's just get some rest first."
Umiling ako at pilit na ngumiti sa kanya. "I'm okay. Really. I'm just nervous... I
mean it's normal right?"
Pagak ang aking tawa. I could see the concern in his eyes. Binaling ko ang aking
tingin sa harap. Wala na si kuya sa labas.
I tried to calm myself down. Terrence was holding my hand. It was supposed to be
comforting but all I felt was warmth.
I was ready to go out of the car. I assured Terrence that I was fine. It was the
truth. I was ready to see Blakey but when I saw him carrying a baby, with all
smiles and adoration, that I was not ready for.
Lalo na noong sumunod sa kanya si Jackie at pinunasan niya ung baby.
A perfect picture of a family.
Would any wife be prepared for that?
Seeing your husband have a family without you?
I was here to be happy and loved but this image broke my heart to a whole new
level.
My tears fell like a waterfall. Hindi na 'ko lumabas. Umiyak nalang ako habang
yakap ni Terrence.
Chapter 34
EVERYTHING HURST.
Nakahiga at nakabaluktot ako sa kama, mugto ang mga mata at masakit ang ulo dahil
sa kakaiyak, mahapdi ang dibidb dahil sa bigat ng nararamdaman at ang
pinakamasakit, ang puso ko na parang madudurog sa sahig.
I felt like dying and the worst part of all, the person that I thought who loved me
was causing me this pain.
I hugged my pillow tighter, burying my face deeper as I sobbed and hiccupped.

Gustuhin ko mang tumigil ay hindi ko kaya.
"Kanina ka pa umiiyak, baby doll. Tumahan ka na. Don Leandro already knows we're
here. Pa'no nalang 'pag nakita ka niyang ganyan?"
Malumanay at puno ng pag-aalala ang boses niya. May sinasabi pa siya pero ang pag-
iyak lang ang tanging ginagawa ko habang nakahiga.
Hindi ko kayang pakinggan ang mga nasa paligid ko. Wala akong ibang maramdaman kung
hindi ang sakit. Wala akong ibang makita kung hindi ang aking asawa na kahit
nakapikit ako, kitang kita ko ang saya sa bago niyang pamilya.
Naiinis ako, nalilito at nasasaktan.
May anak siya at bagong asawa. Kung gano'n, ano na ang tawag sakin? Asawa niya
parin ako, diba? Pero bakit naghanap siya ng iba?
Is this because I lost our baby?
"Tama na 'yan, baby doll..."
Hinihila ni Terrence and unan pero humihigpit lang ang kapit ko. Maya maya ay
naramdaman ko ang braso niya sa aking likod. Inalalayan niya 'kong tumayo. I wailed
and wiggled myself away from him but he successfully sat me up, took away my pillow
and now, he's looking at me with a frown and sadness.
It's like he's sharing what I felt. But that's impossible.
It's not his spouse who's with someone else.
Sinapo niya ang magkabila kong pisngi at pinunasan ang mga luha ko. Naalala ko si
Blakey. Ganyan din siya kapag umiiyak ako. He would wiped my tears away and told me
that he's there. That he loved me. Now, he's nowhere near me.
Dumaan na naman ang matinding sakit sa aking dibdib at muling umatungaw ng iyak.
Terrence moved closer and I hugged him immediately.
"Shhh... Sasakit na naman ang lalamunan mo..." Aniya habang hinahaplos ang aking
buhok.
"B-Bakit gano'n? He l-loves some...one."
"You're his wife. Meron lang talagang bagay na di maiiwasan."
Mabilis akong umiling at tiningala siya. "But e-everybody thinks sh-she's his w-
wife."
Nagtangis ang bagang niya at sumimangot muli.
What I said was true that's why it hurts even more.
Pumunta kami sa office ni Blakey ilang araw pagkatapos. Iba na pala ang lugar kung
sa'n siya nagtratrabaho. Hindi ako naniniwalang pipiliin ni Blakey kay Jackie. I
held into his promise and the love I felt from him.
I wanted see him. I didn't care about the baby or Jackie that time. I just wanted
to see him. That's all that matters.
Pero hindi umayon ang lahat. Nagtatanong palang kami sa sekretarya niya ay nadurog
na muli ang puso ko.
"He's with his wife and daughter, ma'am. Schedule po ng check-up ni baby."
Ang laki ng ngiti niya nang sabihin niya 'yon. It vanished when she saw my
reaction. I walked out of that place before hearing Terrence said not to mention
that we came to Blakey.
And since yesterday, hindi pa 'ko natatapos sa pag-iyak. Terrence is here, trying
to feed me, taking care of me but I couldn't do much except plunging myself deeper
in misery.
"Anong gusto mong mangyari?"
"I w-want to be w-with Blakey." Walang pag-aalinglangan kong sagot.
Bahagya siyang ngumiti. "What do you want more? To be happy or be with him?"
Kumunot ang noo ko at napaisip sa kanyang tanong. Pagkaraan ng ilang segundo,

naisip ko na madali lang pala ang tanong na 'yon.
"Both. I'll be happy with him."
Tumango siya, hindi nawawala ang ngiti. "If you could be happy with him then no one
will stop you. But you need to know that there are also a lot of things-people
involve and there are lots of things around you that can be your source of
happiness. You can definitely choose both but what if something else can definitely
make you happier? Would you still choose to be his with him?"
I tilted my head as I became confused.
Bakit niya ba tinatanong sa'kin 'to?
"Does Don Leandro make you happy?"
"Of course!"
"Pa'no si Doggie at Softie?"
Kinusot ko ang mata ko bago sumagot. "Them too."
"What about cakes and books? Flowers or even the insects?"
Tumango ako. "Yes but not all insects. Some of them are creepy."
I cringed that made him chuckled. "See? Ang daming nakakapagpasaya sa'yo."
Ginulo niya ang buhok ko. Nakalimutan ko panandalian ang sakit kanina. Iniiwas ko
ang ulo ko sa kamay niya habang tumatawa kami.
"You too. You make me happy."
Natigilan siya sa sinabi ko. Ang kamay niyang umaabot sa ulo ko ay nanatili sa ere.
Kinuha ko 'to at hinawakan gamit ang dalawang kamay.
"Thank you, Terrence..." bahagyang nakaawang ang bibig niyang nakatingin sa mga
kamay namin bago nag-angat ng tingin sa'kin. "Thank you helping me since the day
you saw me. For bringing me foods when I was starving. For helping me with my
speech and my reflex. Thank you for being my personal nurse, my therapist, my
guardian, my protector and most of all, I thank you for being my friend."
Halos mapaluhod ako nang yakapin ko siya sa leeg. "Thank you for always making me
happy even when I'm not sad."
I even gave him a peck on the cheek before hugging him tighter.
I really thank God that he gave Terrence to me.

Kahit na naging usapin ako ng buong mundo dahil sa ginawa niya ay hindi ako
nagalit. Siya ang unang tumulong at nagligtas sa'kin kay Anita at Penelope. Alam ko
rin na siya ang nagpaalam sa lahat ng mga paghihirap ko.
And now, he made me realized that happiness could be found not in just a person. He
made me realized that happiness was everywhere.
Naramdaman ko ang mga braso niyang pumulupot sa bewang ko.
"You also make me happy. Hindi mo lang alam..."
Bulong niya na nagpangiti sa'kin. "Really?"
Tumango siya sa balikat ko. "Oo naman."
"You know... It feels nice to hug you. You're like my human teddy bear. I should
start calling you Terry Bear."
He threw his head back and laughed. Napabalik tuloy ako sa pagkakaupo. Napalabi ako
kasi ang sarap talaga niyang yakapin.
"Pero mukang saglit lang ako magiging human teddy bear mo..."
"You don't like it?"
"No. I love it it's because your dad would kill me once he knew what happened."
Sa sinabi niya ay biglang bumalik ang hapdi sa dibdib ko. Napayuko ako at napakagat
sa labi.
"Don't be sad, baby doll. Just remember, don't stuck yourself in sadness. Choose to
be happy. Hindi lang sa isa nakikita 'yon."
"I know. It's just that..." Napapahid na naman ako sa mata. Ano bayan? Naiiyak na
naman ako.
"You'll get better, okay? We're here..." his comforting words made me felt
stronger.
Alam ko sa sarili ko na makakayanan ko lahat basta andyan sila ni daddy. Sana lang
hanggang huli ay hindi nila ako iwan gaya ng taong akala ko ay andyan lagi sa tabi
ko.
I wanna be happy and I choose to be happy.
Nagising ako dahil sa ingay. Napansin kong mag-isa lang ako sa kama. Nasa'n si
Terrece? Kagabi kasi hindi niya 'ko iniwan hanggang sa makatulog ako.
Narinig ko ulit ang ingay. Napatayo agad ako dahil boses 'yon ni daddy.
"Don't let that one find us. Kanina pa sumusunod 'yon. Iligaw niyo."
"Daddy!" Sigaw ko.
Napalingon siya agad sa'kin. Ang seryoso niyang mukha ay mabilis na nadapuan ng
saya. I ran and hugged him. Agad rin niya itong sinuklian ng yakap.
I noticed his bodyguards left the hotel room Terrence got for me. Sa kabilang
kwarto siya dapat pero ayokong maiwan mag-isa. Natatakot ako kaya pinapatulog ko
siya dito.
"I'm so disappointed in you, Leanna. You left without saying a word. Hindi mo ba
alam kung ga'no ako nag-alala?"
"I'm sorry, daddy." Nakanguso kong sambit habang nakayuko.
Nakaupo kami sa sofa. Kakatapos lang namin kumain. Daddy didn't say a word earlier.
Kanina ko pa nga siya hinihintay na magsalita dahil alam kong pagagalitan niya 'ko
pero wala siyang sinabi. Ngayon lang matapos naming kumain.
Si Terrence naman ay umalis pala. He visited his family.
I heard him sigh. "Terrence told me what happened."
Nagtagpo ang tingin namin. Malungkot ang mga mata niya gaya ng sa'kin. The only
difference was that I already started crying.
"Don't cry, darling." Inakbayan ako ni daddy at lumapit ako sa kanya, yakap ko siya
sa bewang.
Why was I always crying? That's why Anita and Penelope hated and liked to hurt me.
Lagi nila akong sinisigawan pag umiiyak ako. Now I know. Because it was annoying.
"Daddy, it hurts."
"I know, darling. I felt the same with your mom."
"I miss mommy..." He pulled me closer.
"Me too. Pinipigilan ko lang na 'wag umiyak 'pag naaalala ko siya. But you know
what?"
"What?" Umayos ako ng upo.
Ngumiti siya. "I need to be strong because I know that I still have you. You are so
much like your mother. You smile the same, you cry as much as your mother and your
eyes... that's her eyes. You got it from her that's why when you're sad, it always
makes me feel that you and your mother are both sad and crying and it really pains
me. So please, darling don't cry again."
Pinunasan ko ng mabilis ang aking mga luha. "I promise, daddy. I'll be strong. I
won't cry anymore. I will always remember that bad things are not worth any tears.
Nakalimutan ko 'yon pero I promise, dad. I will never forget that again."
"That's my daughter." Napangiti si daddy dahil sa sinabi ko. His look said how
proud he was of me. "I'll do whatever that makes you happy, darling? Sabihin mo
lang kay daddy..."
I didn't want to tell him that my chest still hurts. Ayokong mag-alala na naman
siya kaya kahit na masakit parin ay pilit akong ngumiti.
"I want to catch up with the world."
Kinabukasan, bumalik kami sa Canada. Medyo malungkot dahil hindi ko kasama si daddy
pauwi. Nauna siya dahil daw kailangan.
He didn't tell me the details and neither Terrence.
I lied. Hindi pala medyo malungkot. Malungkot talaga dahil sa pagbalik ko, ay ang
pag-iwan ko sa taong naging sentro ng buhay ko.
Ang simula ng paglimot ko sa mga magagandang ala-ala. Mga masasayang sandali na

kasama siya.
On the other hand, I will also leave all the things and people that caused me pain.
I'm leaving it all... including my pitiful, coward self.
.
.
.
.
.
.
"It's nice having coffee with you, Dean."
"Too bad your leaving. I really want to get to know you more." May panghihinayang
sa itsura at boses niya. Napangiti nalang ako.
"Maybe when we get back but I'm not sure if that will happen."
"I'll still look forward to that." We both laughed before I nodded.
"I'll let you know. Save a seat for us." I grabbed my Gucci bag resting on the seat
on my right before standing up. Tumayo rin siya.
"I will. 'Til next time, Leanna." He gave me his charming smile.
I smiled back. "'Til next time, Dean."
Ginawa ko lang ang pangako ko sa kanya. We dated over a coffee. Gusto kong tuparin
'yon bago kami umalis dahil hindi gaya ng ibang tao, I'll make sure to keep any
promise I make.
Maliit man o malaki.
Dad approved of the things I wanted to do. The best part was, the two important men
of my life supported me and were coming with me.
We would explore the world together.
"Ready, baby doll?" Tanong ni Terrence bago kami pumasok sa airport.
Malawak akong ngumiti sa kanya. "Ready and excited."
"Excited over An amusement park?" He mocked.
I scowled at him. "It's Disneyland, Terry Bear. Who wouldn't be?"
He was about to drop his comeback when daddy called us. Kapwa namin siya nilingon.
"I'm not sure if I could climb a mountain with my age, darling. Pwede bang sa
Disneyland nalang ako?"
Namewang ako at umiling. "I'm sorry, dad but you already said yes. Remember?"
Inangkla ko isang braso sa kanya bago gawin ang pareho kay Terrence.
"We're all doing this together. We'll start with amusement parks, then visit
different churches, breathtaking views and national places of every country. Then
after that, we'll climb different mountains, explore forests and try trilling
activities."
My men groaned making me laugh. Sakto namang tinawag ang flight number namin. "The
world is calling for us. Here we come!"
I pulled them with our arms connected. They groaned again but I knew that they
loved coming with me and I felt the same.
Chapter 35
"ALMOST AT the top, dad. You can do it!" I shouted at the top of Mount Khuiten as I
cheered for my dad who has each hands on both his knees.
Hingal na hingal siya. Hindi ko siya masisisi dahil halos pitong oras na nang
magsimula kami sa pag-akyat.
He raised his palm a bit at me before continued catching his breath. Giggling, I
jogged to him before grabbing his arms and dragged him close the mountains end.
"I really am too old for this, darling." Hinihingal niyang sambit.
"Noone is too old for a view like this. Look, dad!" I pointed straight.
I saw him took a sharp intake of breath. Manghang mangha siya sa nakita. Sino ba
namang hindi?
Napakaganda ng Mount Khuiten. The land was green but the top of the mountain was
covered in snow. That's why we're all wearing thick Jackets.
Isa pang kahanga hanga ay dahil tatlong bansa ang kinalalagyan nito. The mountain
straddled Russia, China and Mongolia however, it belonged of Mongolia.
"Dad! I'll take a picture. Stand there, daddy!"
It's like he's been pulled back from the trance of the view when I tapped his arm
excitedly. Agad naman siyang tumingin sa'kin at ngumiti bago pumunta sa tinuro ko.
Umatras ako ng konti. Nilingon ko muna ang paligid bago iangat ang camera ko at
itutok ang lente nito kay daddy na nakataas ang dalawang kamay.
I took the shot with his broad smile and checked it after.
Perfect!
"Where's Terrence?" Hindi ko namalayan si daddy na nakalapit na.
"Naglilibot?" I shrugged. Kanina ko pa din hinahanap yun eh.
Sabay lang kaming nakarating dito. I was caught with the magic of the beautiful
scene that I didn't notice him disappear to nowhere.
Bahala siya. Kami lang ni daddy ang may picture dito.
Saglit lang kaming tumitingin ni daddy ng dumating si Terrence. Nakataas ang hood
ng asul at makapal niyang jacket. Nakasabit sa leeg ang kanyang ski mask at hawak
ang parehong strap ng traveling bag na suot. Sinalubong ko siya.
"Where have you been?"
"I answered a call..."
I crossed my arms. "We're here to trek and climb. Dapat hindi na, Ter. At san ka
nakakuha ng reception?"
"Kanina pa 'yon tawag ng tawag nung paakyat tayo. Pasensya na po. It was
important." Amusement was evident in his eyes. Kumunot lang ang noo ko.
"Bumaba ka pa?" Mariin kong sabi na lalong nagpaangat ng ngiti niya bago tumango.
He was about to say something when daddy came. Biglang naging seryoso ang mukha ni
Terrence.
"Don Leandro, I talked to someone over the phone a bit earlier."
Daddy looked at him confused.
"Importante po. About your company..." dagdag niya.
"Who is it from?" Kumunot ang noo ni daddy.
"Your president..."
Sinabi ni Terrence ang tungkol sa napag-usapan nila. Hindi daw dapat tatawagan ni
Terrence pero kanina pa may tawag ng tawag sa phone niya.
I'm not sure how they know his number but Daddy left his phone at the hotel. Same
as mine. Kaya pala nawala si Terrence dahil bumaba pa siya para lang makakuha ng
signal at makatawag.
Eh ang layu layo na namin. Isa pa, hindi pa ito ang tuktok. Gusto kong makarating
do'n pero dahil sa itsura ni daddy, mukhang kailangan na naming bumaba.
Terrence said that our branch in Australia and main branch were not doing well and
they needed dad's help.
"I'm sorry, darling. I need to go back to work."
"It's fine, dad."
Nakabalik na kami sa kwarto ko sa hotel at kakatapos lang naming maghapunan. We are

both sitting beside each other on the sofa while Terrence was on the single couch.
The TV was on with news playing.
Inakbayan niya ko at hinapit palapit bago halikan sa noo. "Thanks for

understanding, darling."
"No worries. We already have enough bonding for months."
"And we'll have that still..."
Tiningala ko siya at hinalikan sa pisngi. "I'm excited!"
"I hope you're that excited when you go back to studying."

Kununot ang noo ko.
What? Mag-aaral na ko? I thought hindi na.
"Is that necessary, dad?"
"Oo naman, anak. You'll be inheriting everything I have. You need to be ready."
Aniya. "You'll go back to studying with Terrence while training you how to handle
our business."
Bahagya akong lumayo. "Are those going to be our bonding?"
"Some of it. Yes." Napanguso ako habang humahalakhal siya.
"I don't like that kind of bonding."
"You'll get a hang of it, Leanna..." hinalikan niya muli ang noo ko bago tumayo.
Tiningala ko siya. Nahagip naman ng paningin ko ang pagtayo rin ni Terrence.
"I'll expect you to still keep an eye on my daughter Terrence. Tumigil ka din sa
pag-aaral para alagaan siya. I'll enroll you both on the same university."
"I will, Don Leandro. Dahil po sa inyo ay umayos ang buhay ng pamilya ko kaya
makakaasa kayong aalagaan ko si Leanna."
Dad nodded to acknowledge his statement. Wala naman sa sarili akong napangiti. Two
of my favorite men showing how they cared and loved me really swelled my heart.
Isa na lamang ang kulang.
Nawala bigla ang ngiti ko. Natuon ang paningin sa balitang hindi ko gaano
maintindihan dahil sa iniisip.
My chest tightened with thoughts of him and his family. His wife and daughter.
Well, ako parin ang asawa niya pero sa papel nalang.
Naiisip niya pa kaya ako. Pitong buwan na ang lumipas. Masaya kaya siya kahit hindi
ako kasama.
Ako kasi masaya pero 'pag naiisip ko siya...
Ano ba 'tong ginagawa ko. Masaya na siya. Period.
He chose to be happy without me so I should do the same. After all, I was not the
one who lied. I was not the one who turned their back to someone, discarding their
marriage like a trash.
Kung sa bagay, if I was on his place, I'd do the same. I was broken, pathetic and
stupid.
Stupidity that killed an innocent baby.
Maybe it was my fault.
Pero kahit na. I needed him that time and he was not there...
Just choose the to be happy Leanna. You don't need him.
Shaking my head, I clear my thoughts and looked at my two men. My head tilted on
the side.
Looks like they already agreed onto something...
"Sige, pagbalik natin, do'n na kayo mag enroll."
"Where, dad?" Tumingin sila sa'kin dahil sa pagsingit ko.
"Sa Ateneo, anak."
Napaawang ang aking bibig.
Ateneo? Diba sa Pilipinas 'yon? Ang ibig sabihin...
"Hindi tayo babalik sa Canada, dad?"
"No, Leanna. We don't have anything else to do there." His lips twitched to a small
apologetic smile.
"We're going back to Philippines..."
I blinked my eyes a couple of times. Baka kasi nagbibiro lang si daddy o kaya naman
nananaginip lang ako.
Tumingin ako kay Terrence. Medyo nakangiti at umiiling. "Mukang di niya pa ma-
absorb ang sinabi mo, Don Leandro..."
Daddy sighed tiredly. "Ikaw nang bahalang magpaliwanag. My body's tired with these
activities we did. I'm too old for this."
"Sige po, Don."
Paalis na si daddy pero ako hindi pa nakakabawi. I nodded slowly and scowled.
Nagbibiro lang 'yon. Umalis agad eh.
"Maaga pa tayo bukas. Matulog ka na. Mga hapon na tayo makakarating sa Pilipinas."
Pilipinas... Pilipinas... Pilipinas!
"Shït! Totoo nga!?"
"Leanna! You're mouth!"
Nagulat ako at mabilis na napatayo.
"Sorry, daddy..." Oh no! Daddy heard me!
Napayuko ako dahil sa hiya. Ramdam ko na pinagtatawanan ako ni Terrence. Kainis

siya.
"Where did she learn that word, Terrence? Sa'yo ba?"
I saw Terrence stiffed. I smiled at stuck my tongue out at him. Buti nga.
Kinabukasan ay maaga kaming umalis. Pag-apak palang namin sa airport ay agad akong
nawalan ng gana.
Before, I always get excited when we leave from airport to airport not unlike now.
I didn't like the idea of going back to the Philippines.
Was I ready? No. Not yet.
But I needed to go back.
"Ready to go home?"
"Yes." Sagot ko kay Terrence kahit na hindi pa.
I saw dad talking to someone at the phone. Kanina pa siya ganyan. Ni hindi niya
mabitawan ang cellphone bago at matapos kaming kumain. Pagkatapos ng tawag ay may
ka-text naman.
This is serious, huh? There's no escape then.
Nasa himpapawid na ang eroplano. Nakatanaw ako sa langit katabi si daddy. Terrence
sat on our front. Business class ang kinuha namin kaya maluwag at kumportable ang
lugar.
My thought swam around the possibilities of what might happen when I went back.
Maybe I might see him. Maybe I won't.
What would I do when that happened?
Ewan ko. Bahala na. Naalala ko bigla ang sinabi ni Terrence.
Choose to be happy.
Tama. I'll be happy. My tomorrow will always be happy. Andyan man siya o wala.
Dumiretso kami sa bahay. Si Terrence naman ay nahatid na namin sa pamilya niya. Dad
gave them a house before so that's where we dropped him off.
Binati kami ng mga nakangiting kasambahay. I thought my dogs would be the first
ones to greet me. Asan sila? Hindi naman kasi sila kinukulong. Ayoko ng kinukulong.
"Kamusta po ang byahe, Don Leandro?" Bati ni Manang Rosa nang makapasok kami sa
bahay.
"Mabuti naman, Rosa... Was everything fine when we're not around?"
"Opo, Don Leandro." Rinig kong sagot niya habang nililibot ko ang paningin sa bahay
namin.
Ang daming kumikilos na mga kasambahay. Yung iba inakyat na ang mga gamit namin.
Ang iba naman ay tumungo sa kusina. Magluluto siguro o naghahanda na.
Namiss ko 'to... na-miss ko ang lahat ng nandito. Wala kasing pinagbago. Kagaya
parin ng dati.
Yung chandelier pareho parin pero ung nga sofa, ayos ng mga kagamitan at
pictures... parang gaya nung buhay pa si mommy.
"Kamusta po kayo, Miss Leanna?"
"I'm fine Manang Rosa. I missed you so much." Excited ko siyang niyakap. May isa pa
kong na-miss eh. Kamusta na kaya si Manang Josie?
Nang kumalas ako ay abot tenga ang aking ngiti. Siya naman ay parang nabigla sa
ginawa ko. Or maybe it's something I said.
Diretso na kasi ako magsalita at hindi na 'ko ang dating mahiyaing Leanna.
"Mabuti naman ay maayos ka na, Miss Leanna..."
"Leanna nalang po, Manang Rosa. Drop the formalities. Pamilya na po ang turing ko
sa inyo."
Isang tunay na ngiti ang pinakawalan niya. She was touched by what I said.
Nakakatuwa naman.
Tinanong ko rin kung nasa'n si Doggie at Softie. Nasa vet pala. Schedule ng turok.
"Darling, I know your hungry. Kumain muna tayo bago magpahinga."
Lumingon ako at ngumuso kay daddy. "I'll eat but I want to go to the mall."
"Pagud ka. Magpahinga ka muna. There's so much more time for that."
"But, daddy..." lumapit ako at niyakap siya sa bewang. "Tomorrow's our enrollment.
After that, I need to focus on my studies and training. I'm not that tired. Sige
na, daddy..."
I pouted and looked at him with pleading eyes. Maya maya ay lumambot ang tingin
niya at bumuntong hininga.
"Fine. I'll call Terrence to accompany you."
Yes! Lumawak ang ngiti ko at nagtatalon habang nakayakap sa kanya. "Thanks, daddy.
Best dad ever!"
I kissed him on the cheek before Manang Rosa cleared her throat. Nakatingin siya
samin habang nakangiti. Parang tuwang tuwa sa nakita samin. "Handa na po ang
hapag, Don at Miss."
Nagpasalamat ako. Tumango lamang si daddy bago ako igaya papuntang hapag.
Habang kumakain kami ay parang inaantok na ko pero gusto ko pang gumala kaya
sinawalang bahala ko. Isa pa, ang sarap ng mga pagkain.
Namiss ko rin tong mga Filipino foods e. Puro kasi karne ang kinakain namin sa
ibang bansa at ang iba walang kanin.
Matapos non ay umakyat na kami ni daddy sa taas. He went to his room and I went to
mine.
Nostalgia. That's what I felt when I scanned my room. My bed was full of stuffed
toys. Different animals and cartoon characters like Mimi and Hello Kitty, Baymax,
Bart, Stuart and Kevin. Meron din akong inside out chracters. Kumpleto silang
lahat.
Lumapit ako sa kanila. I remember when I used to greet them one by one. They all
have names and I still remember them.
I also have my favorites but the most favorite of all was Dolly. She's the oldest
of them.
I picked her up and brushed her tangled hair. "Hi, Dolly..."
Dolly was my baby doll. Ito ung manika na pumipikit pag hinihiga. Penelope took her
away from me and Dolly was the reason Terrence gave me that nick name.
She was the first one that Terrence took and hid from those two. I asked him to
take her away on the first place. To protect her.
"Wag kang mag-alala. Aalagaan ko ang baby doll mo at ikaw din. Aalagaan kita dahil
ikaw ang baby doll ko."
Tandang tanda ko ang sinabi niya. Ngayon ko lang mapagtanto na ang laki na pala ng
utang na loob ko kay Terrence. I should pay him back. Pero pa'no? I'll think of
something later.
My phone vibrated against the pocket of my jeans. Napangiti ako dahil ang Terry
bear ko ang nagtext.
Pupunta daw siya para samahan ako sa mall kaya nagmadali ako sa paghahanda. Pero
nagtext muna ako na do'n nalang kami magkita. Alam ko naman kung sa'n kasi nadaanan
namin nung hinatid siya. At isa pa, mas malapit siya do'n.
I was standing in front of my mirror. Should I wear a hat or not? Sinilip ko ang
panahon sa labas. Then I'll wear one. It's hot outside.
I rushed downstairs. I was going to explore the world and I was excited. Masaya
kasi 'yon.
Pababa na 'ko nang may marinig akong boses. Nawala ang ngiti ko at napahinto. I
knew that voice. That's Penelope.
I remained there for a bit before silently steeping down a couple of steps before
peaking down. Nakita ko si daddy at ung mga kasama niya sa dulo ng hagdan.
It felt like air was knocked out of my system.
My excitement suddenly vanished. Napalitan ito ng pagtataka, pagkabigla at kaba.

One part of me felt happy but maybe that was my excitement earlier.
Umatras ako ng isang baitang, kagat kagat ang labi habang nag-iisip.
Anong ginagawa niya dito? Bababa na ba ako? Nag-iisa ba siya? Pano kung kasama niya
si...
Ano bayan Leanna? What are you doing? Ano naman kung kasama niya.
Those people hurt you. Forgive, forget and face tomorrow with a happy smile. 'Wag
paapekto!
Wag paapekto! Be happy.
Tama! Gano'n dapat. With the new found courage, I plastered a smile and stoop down
to face them.
"Daddy!" I said excitedly. Hindi ko hahayaang masira ang masaya kong araw. "I'm
going to the mall with Ter!"
Dad and I shared a warm hug. I felt his support with that and I also felt two pair
of eyes looking at me.
Hindi ko sila pinansin. Nang humiwalay kami sa isa't isa ay saka ko siya hinarap
nang may ngiti.
Yung masayang ngiti. Yung tipong sinasabing okay lang ako at walang sama ng loob.
"Cuddle c-cakes..." he breathed lowly.
Tumakbo ako palapit sa kanya at niyakap ang bewang nito. I buried my face against
his chest like the way I used to do when he went home from work.
I sighed in content upon hearing his heartbeat. My smile vanished. It was so fast
and relaxing. So warm and comfortable.
Nang maramdaman ko ang kamay niya sa aking likod ay pilit kong binalik ang nawalang
ngiti. I looked up to him.
"Blakey!" Something happened inside me then moment his name rolled out of my
tongue. Like strings attached to my heart being pulled slowly.
Nope, Leanna. It's dangerous! Your happiness is at stake.
My eyes clashed with his stares. He stared at me like he's convincing himself that
I was real.
Yes. I am here Osias. I'm real. I'm happy and it's real too.
Kaso lang, hindi ko inaasahan na wala pang isang araw dito ng pagpapakasaya ay
natuldukan na 'yon dahil lang sa nakita ko siya sa mall kasama si Jackie.
I was slapping them the reality that I was back for good but it backfired.
The worst was that I also saw the reality. Him with Jackie. I never thought that I
would see them both in one day at the same time.
The pain was real.
Reality sucks.
Chapter 36
NAKAKAINIS. Ayokong mag-aral.
I sighed and looked at the schedule I was holding. Two days ago ay nag-enroll kami
ni Ter. He'd continue with his medical course, cross enrolled with BA just to be
with me on that course. Actually, siya ang nag-enroll saming dalawa dahil sumunod
lang ako.
Siya narin ang namili ng schedule namin. Ang maganda do'n, pwede kaming mamili ng
oras ng klase. Okay lang din kahit absent ng absent. May gano'n daw talagang
program ang Ateneo.
Mabilis lang ang process. Hindi ganoon karami ang tao. Mainly because they're all
in their classrooms as we filed as late enrollees.
Ngumuso ako at pabagsak na humiga sa aking kama. My arms stretched on each side,
slowly letting go of the paper. Some of my stuffed toys bounced, others fell.
I didn't mind them. Aayusin ko nalang mamaya.
Nakatingin ako sa kisame. Ayoko talagang mag-aral. It not that I was stupid or
didn't want to learn. It's just that, there's too many people around.
I was not used to them. Naiilang ako.
Pwede naman akong mag-aral dito sa bahay, ang kaso, baka hindi gusto 'yon ni daddy.
Isa pa, nakita ko kanina ang excitement ni Ter.
I saw how his eyes sparkle with awe and interest while looking around the campus.
Ramdam kong sabik na siyang bumalik sa ganoong paligid.
Kaya ko ba? Andyan naman si Terrence...
Nakaramdam ako ng uhaw. Lumabas ako para para sana tumungo sa kusina. Nasa taas ako
ng hagdan nang matanaw ko si Penelope habang kausap ang isa naming kasambahay.
Hindi muna ako bumaba. I didn't really want to cross path with her. Ter said if I
wanted to be happy, letting go of the anger in my heart was the first step. But how
could I? Kung sa boses palang niya ay naaalala ko ang lahat.
Galit ako sa kanilang mag-ina at hindi ko pa kayang magpatawad pero ayoko ng gulo
kaya nga iniiwasan ko siya. Ang mahirap lang, pareho kaming nakatira sa isang
bahay.
Dad said she didn't want to stay in the condo that he's offering that's why she's
here. Alam kong nag-aalala si dad sa'kin dahil nga andyan siya but he gave a word
to Terrence. She's part of the package.
Narinig kong inuutusan niya ang kasambahay na ipag-impake siya ng gamit para sa
isang shooting. The poor girl just nodded, trying not to look at her straight in
her eyes. She feared the one giving orders. That was me before.
I heard that Penelope lost her popularity because of the scandal from her party
almost 2 years ago. Nawala sa kanya ang mga nakaline-up na project. Her show got
low ratings, got cancelled because of that and now, all she had was a small parts.
She became a low profiled celebrity.
Isang extra.
The star she tried hard to reach was slowly disappearing.
Giving a final instructions, Penelope turned her back on her but not forgetting to
give her a glare.
Mabuti naman ay lumabas siya. Hindi niya ko nakita at hindi magtatagpo ang landas
namin.
Sinalubong ko si Mhela sa gita ng hagdan. That's the maids name if I remember

correctly.
"Magandang hapon po, Señiorita." Bahagya siyang tumango. Yup. That's how other
maids except Manang Rosa call me.
"Kamusta, Mhela!?" Masigla kong bati.
I giggled at her response. Nanlaki ang mga maya niya na para bang hindi
makapaniwala sa sinabi ko.
"O-okay lang po..."

"What's with the way you answer?"
"Wala naman po, Señorita." She forced a smile. "Nabigla lang po ako kasi alam niyo
ang pangalan ko."
"I know all of the names of the people who live here. So what if I know your name?"
She slightly shook her head. "Si Miss Penelope po kasi hindi kami kilala kahit ang
tagal na namin dito."
Oh I see...
"May kailangan po ba kayo, Señorita?"
Tumango ako at ngumiti. "Can you help me organize my room, please?"
"Oo naman po." Nakangiti niyang sagot.
With a wide smile, I hooked my arm around hers and drag her into my room. Nagulat
pa siya sa ginawa ko pero agad na bumalik ang kanyang ngiti.
Inayos namin ang kwarto ko. We organized all my stuffed toy friends as well as my
bed. Pati ung mga bago kong damit na binili namin sa mall ni Terrence.
I didn't have time to put them in my closet nor take them out of the paper bag.
Dalawang araw nang nakakalipas pero nakabalot parin sila.
Binigyan ko siya ng ilang mga damit. I'm not really fond of shopping and having new
dresses so it's okay to give. Ayaw niya pang tanggapin noong una pero napilit ko.
"Salamat po, Señorita."
"No worries..." Kanina pa siya nagpapasalamat. Hindi mawala ang ngiti. I'm happy
that she liked it.
I also liked the feeling inside of me when I shared things I have. Nakakagaan ng
feeling.
Nauna na siyang bumaba bitbit ang napakaraming paper bags. Naligo muna ako bago
bumaba ulit.
I saw Mhela talking with someone, both of them giggling. Pababa ako sa hagdan, siya
naman ay nagpapagpag ng throw pillow at si Karen ay nagwawalis. Nakita niya ko at
kumaway siya. Napangiti naman si Karen, isa naming kasambahay na halatang nahihiya.
Oh! Meron pa kong mga damit na hindi na ginagamit. Ibibigay ko nalang kay Karen.
Mukha namang kasukat ko rin siya ng katawan.
"You!" Isang boses ang narinig namin. Both of them stilled and bowed they're heads.
They stood that way until I saw Penelope came from their side.
"Did you already do what I order you to do?"
Mhela's lips parted like she just remembered something. Agad niya rin itong kinagat
at umiling.
"How stupid are you!?" Penelope spat to the scared girl. "It's almost two hours you
dumb, worthless maid! I'm going on a taping. Do you think you still have time now,
huh!?"
"P-Pasensya na..."
"Shut up!"
Penelope kept shouting at her. Nadamay pa si Karen kalaunan. Umigting ang panga ko
habang pinapanood sila.
Hindi parin pala siya nagbabago. I thought after everything that happened, after
the things she lost, she'd realized what she did. That she'd somehow humility in
her.
Hindi pa pala.
Mababa parin ang tingin niya sa ibang tao.
Mabilis akong bumaba. I couldn't stand to see her treating them like this that's
why I called Karen. Tumigil naman siya at napatingin sa'kin habang ako naman ay may
matamis na ngiti sa mukha.
She smiled sweetly too but I didn't know what really that means. Hindi ko mawari
kung totoo yon o hindi. She's a good actress after all.
"I asked her to help me earlier with my clothes. Don't be mad at her, ate."
Umangat ang isang sulok ng kanyang labi kasabay ng pag-angat ng isa niyang kilay.
It looked like she's mocking that I had called her ate.
Since the day we've returned, I really tried hard not to cross paths with her.
Mahirap dahil kailangang kasabay siya sa pagkain.
Alam kong alam niya na malamig ang trato namin ni daddy sa kanya kaya nga nagtataka
ako kung bakit hindi nalang siya umalis. Sa totoo lang, gusto kong umalis na siya
dito.
"Is that so? Well that's fine. I don't want anyone to touch my things, anyway."
Sumilay ang ngiti sa kanya bago bumaling kay Mhela.
"Just get me some water."
Mabilis itong umalis para sumunod at iniwan si Karen na pinaalis ko na rin di

kalaunan.
"So how are you, dear sister?" She said after Karen left.
My smile never waived. "I'm fine, ate."
Tinignan niya ko mula ulo hanggang paa. "I can see..."
"Ikaw, ate? I heard you lost your show..."
"I didn't. I dropped it. I was getting bored with that anyway." She had a passive
look but I knew that she didn't like what I said.
Ilang akong makipag-usap. I felt like cowering away and just get away from her but
somehow, I felt different. Parang nagkaroon ako ng lakas ng loob na makipagsabayan
sa kanya.
That I was strong- I am stronger now.
Namataan ko ang pagdating ni Mhela dala inutos ni Penelope.
"Miss-"
"Mhela..." Natigil siya sa pag-abot ng baso. "I'm thirsty..."
Umangat na naman ang kilay ni Penelope. Mhela looked at me confused before handing
me the glass that was supposed to be hers.
"Ito na po, señorita."
"What the hell!?" Asik ni Penelope nang maiabot sa'kin ang baso.
Ang totoo, medyo kinakabahan na ko dahil sa pagsigaw niya. Alam ko mukhang malakas
ang loob ko pero meron talagang mga bagay na kinundisyon ang katawan mo.
It's like my body responded to be nervous when she shouted.
"Kukuha nalang po ako ulit, Miss Penelope."
"You stupid-"
"She just know who the real lady of this house."
"And that's you?" She scowled.
"Maybe..." Kibit balikat kong sagot. "But I'm the one they're calling señorita
inside this mansion. So I'm definitely it. Isa pa, I'm the only daughter of daddy.
The only heiress..."
I have this triumphant smile while she was fuming in anger. Pinagmamasdan ko lang
siyang magpigil ng galit habang kinuha ni Mhela ang baso sa'kin.
"Kukuha lang po ako ulit, Miss Penelope."
Naiwan kaming dalaaa. Oh no! Galit na talaga siya. Ano kayang gagawin niya? I think
this is a bad idea.
"You stupid piece of shit!"
I gasped and stepped back when she raised her hand. She's going to slap me but
stopped when she saw what I did.
Tagumpay siyang ngumiti.
"Your speech improved that's right but your stupidness and being pathetic will
never leave you."
"T-that's not t-true." Bwiset! Nautal ako. Bakit ngayon pa.
"See that?" She laughed. "You s-s-stuttered. Poor you."
Tumalikod ako para umalis pero hinila niya ang braso ko.
"Don't turn your back on me you stupid trash!"

"Penelope!"
She immediately released me as we both looked at the door. Terrence had this pure
anger while looking at her.
Lumapit siya sa'kin.
"It's not-"
"It's not what I think, gano'n ba?" He spat before checking me for injuries.
Hinaplos niya ang braso ko.
"Tumigil ka na sa pagsisinungaling Penelope. Ang akala ko ba nagbago ka na?

Nagkamali ako. Mas lalo ka pang lumala. Stop this. Stop hurting her!"
Inilagay niya ko sa likod nya. I was just looking at her from his back. This was
all I could do. Hide behind him.
"Hurt her? Bagay lang sa kanya 'yan. She took everything away from me. Even you!
You left me because of her, Terrence. Now tell me! How could I think about that?"
Her outburst made me swallow. Kumikinang ang gilid ng luha niya. I didn't know if
it was because of her anger or she's about to cry.
I looked at Terrence. What's this?
His eyes soften at her. Napaawang ang labi ko habang inoobserbahan ang mga tingin
nila sa isa't isa.
I didn't notice that I was gripping his hand tight. Napansin ko lang ito nang
pisilin niya ito pabalik.
She looked at me then back at her.
"Tinatama ko ang lahat, Penelope. Hindi lang para sa'kin kung hindi para na rin
sa'yo. Hanggang ngayon..."
Bumigat ang dibdib ko sa nangyari. Nagsisisi ako kung bakit pa ko nagsimula ng gulo
kanina. I shouldn't have provoked her.
Malaki ang atraso niya sa'kin pero hindi ko kayang isawalang bahala 'yon. I could
never hurt her like what they did to me. It's not my nature to do that.
Per hindi rin naman ako santa o perpekto. Part of me wanted to see them not happy
with their lives or at least see them feeling guilty especially her and her mother.
Ung kaninang ginawa ko, that's all that I could do. Ang mgaing malakas sa harap
nila pero pumalpak parin ako.
Then there's Terrence. He was protecting me. But why?
Was it because he's my friend or because he had to do it for Penelope. Para daw
itama ang mali. So does this mean I'm still nothing but a responsibility?
"Is there a problem, baby doll?"
"Wala..." sa sobrang bilis kong sumagot ay nakita ko ang pagkunot ng noo siya sa
tagiliran ko.
Nanood kami ng pelikula sa HBO. I understand nothing. My mind was swirling around
to what happened earlier.
Niyaya niya kong lumabas matapos ang kanina pero nawalan ako ng gana. We stayed in
the house watching movie. Ni hindi ko nga alam kung pang-ilan na 'to. Two or three?
And don't start asking about the titles...
"Wala?"
"Ha?" Wala sa sariling tanong ko at humarap sa kanya.
"Ha?" He mimicked.
"What are you asking again?"
"What are you asking again?" He copied me again. Nahihimigan ko ang tuwa sa kanyang
boses.
"Stop copying me, Terrence."
"Stop copying me, Terrence..."
I'm not enjoying this and I gave him the look saying I was pissed.
"Why?" he chuckled. "We used to play that game remember?"
I groaned and went back to watching. Yes! I won't forget about that play. Diyan
umayos ang pagsasalita ko. He even made me recite tongue twisters then he'd massage
my neck afterwards.
"Are you thinking about what happened earlier this morning?"
Sandali akong tumahimik bago tumango. I heard him sigh.
"Cuddle with me?" Muli akong tumingin sa kanya.
His arms were open and not a second later, I was sitting on his lap, sideways, my
cheek pressed on his chest. One of his arms was underneath me and the other over my
stomach for support.
"Why am I so weak?"
"You're not, baby doll." His breath fanning my hair. "Sometimes, those who are weak
always try to bring strong people down. Don't let them drag you down, baby doll."
"Mahirap 'yan. I'm not even sure how..." Nagpakawala ako ng pilit na tawa.
"No worries. I'll always be here to lift you up."
Suddenly, I felt better. Para akong nabuhayan sa sinabi niya. Tiningala ko siya na
nakadungaw na sa'kin. I smiled at him at raised my lips up to reach his cheek.
"Thanks, Terry bear."
"You're very much welcome, baby doll." He said and kissed my forehead.
"Darling?"
Kapwa kami napadungaw sa likod niya. I gasped and stood up when I saw dad looking
both of us.
Sanay na siyang makita kami ni Terrence na ganito pero ang pumukaw ng atensyon ko
ay ang lalaking kasama niya.
Nakatingin siya ng malamig sa'min. Nagtangis ang kanyang panga habang ang dalawang
kamay ay nakapamulsa sa kanyang slacks. Napabalikwas ako ng tayo dahil sa tingin
niya.
Anong ginagawa niya dito? Bakit siya sinama ni daddy?
Kinabahan ako bigla.
"Daddy..." Lumapit ako at humalik sa kanyang pisngi. Iniiwasang 'wag magtagpo ang
paningin namin ni Osias. "How's your day? Umalis na kayo ni Terrence?"
Umiling ako. "Just watched some movies."
He nodded. "Are your enrollments okay?" Tanong nito kay Terrence na nasa tabi ko
na.
"Okay na po, Don Leandro. We'll start next week. Lahat po ng subjects niya kasama
ako."
"Good. Siya nga pala, Osias will join us for dinner. We'll just talk first and then
after dinner I also need to talk to you about something, Leanna."
I swallowed hard. What are we going to talk about? Ayokong tignan si Osias pero
ramdam ko ang nanunoot na tingin niya sa'kin kaya wala sa sariling napatingin ako
sa kanya.
I was right. He was looking at me like a hawk with those deep brown eyes.
Oh gosh! My heart started pounding fast that I needed to take in some air.
"Yes, d-dad..."
Hinalikan ako ni daddy sa noo muli bago umalis. Hinihintay kong sumunod siya kay
dad sa taas pero nanatilli siya sa harap namin.
"Magandang gabi, Osias." Terrence asked him.
His eyes turned to Terrence with coldness before returning it back at me. Napaiwas
ako ng tingin sa kanya.
"It will be a nice evening." Aniya sa mababang boses. "You know why?"
My heartbeats were hammering. Parang sasabog 'yon. Nanginginig na ang kamay ko

dahil alam kong papalapit siya. I was looking at the ground when his shinny shoes
entered my vision. Napaangat ako ng tingin dahil do'n.
I unconsciously bit my lower lip. The way he's looking at me...
Gosh! It was intense and hot. It was melting my insides.
I needed to stay calm but I couldn't. I was hypnotized with his eyes. Those eyes
that I missed for a long time.
Gumapang ang kamay niya sa aking braso, paangat sa aking leeg at nanatili ro'n. The
part where his hand trailed left me with goose bumps. I knew he noticed that. His
smirk said so.
"Just be ready..." Bago ko pa siya matanong ay lumapat na ang labi niya sa'kin.
My Inside just exploded with warmth that travelled all over my body. I gasped and
that made him explore my mouth with his expert tongue.
I just let him as I slowly shutting my eyes shut.
This was wrong. I knew this was wrong but I couldn't do something to make it stop.
I heard Terrence said something but it was slowly disappearing. Nawala lahat ng
nasa paligid namin. Parang kami lang ang nando'n.
The way he kissed me. They way he grabbed and pulled my neck with softness but
claiming his possession. It was like before. Even the feelings he's giving me.
Nothing had changed and my feelings were waking up.
Nang maghiwalay kami ay nakakapit na 'ko ng mahigpit sa dibdib niya. We were

panting and looking with each other. He licked his lips with a smile and that was
definitely a beautiful sight.
Someone cleared his throat. Agad akong lumayo at bumitaw sa kanya pero hindi sapat
para matanggal ang kamay niya sa aking batok. Nakita ko ang pagkunot ng mukha niya
bago ako napaiwas ng tingin.
"Cuddle cakes..." He whispered just beside my ear. Kinilabutan ako. "I'm taking you
back, my little wife and this time, I won't ever let you go. We'll continue our
tomorrow and forever and I swear to you that."
He gave me one chaste kiss before leaving me with my system unorganized.

Chapter 37
"What!?" I whispered in shock.
Daddy just told me the most ridiculous thing. Kakatapos lang naming mag-dinner at
gaya nga ng sinabi niya kanina ay sumunod ako sa study room niya para nakipag-usap.
I remember what happened in dinner earlier. Nakakailang. It was very awkward-

well... mukang sa'kin lang at sa lalaking kaharap ko.
I didn't have the guts to look at him straight in the eyes. Sumasagot lang ako 'pag
tinatanong ni daddy.
"You'll leave next week."
"You're sending me to Australia? But w-why?"
"I already told you, darling..."
"Yes but...but why do Osias have to come with me? Hindi ba pwedeng isama rin si
Terrence?"
Napabuntong hininga siya. He's tired of explaining. Napayuko nalang ako.
Hindi ko kasi makuha. Ipapadala niya 'ko sa Australia kasama si Osias para daw sa
business namin.
We're currently having problems with both here and our branch in Australia.
Minamadali niya ang pagsasanay sa'kin sa trabaho. He wanted me and Osias to fix the
problem and observe to learn the ways of business.
I didn't know. I didn't want to go but daddy wanted me to.
"Hija, I hope you understand. Wala namang maitutulong si Terrence do'n. Osias was
the one who made and have a better understanding with the contract of our
Australian branch years ago. It has to be Osias with you."
"But how about my studies?"
"You'll study online for the mean time and then continue it in class."
Napakagat ako ng labi at dahan dahang tumango. Tumayo siya sa kanyang upuan sa
likod ng mesa at lumapit sa'kin nang may malamlam na tingin.
He placed his hand above mine resting on my lap. "Darling... I know you're not
comfortable with him but you're still married to him. Things might not well between
you too right now that's why you both need to fix it. At the end of the day, you're
still his wife and he's your husband. Remember that, Leanna."
Hindi ko napigilan ang pagtulo ng ilang luha ko at gaya ng dati, pinunasan ito ni
daddy.
"I'm still hurt, daddy. They...he hurt me before and I'm scared that I'll get hurt
again."
"Loving means hurting, Leanna. If you fight for it even though it hurts, that means
it's worth it and that's how love goes."
Umiling ako. "Pero bakit ako lang ang nasasaktan?"
"You're wrong, darling. Hindi lang ikaw. He's hurting too."
"What do you mean?" Naguguluhan ako. Mukha namang hindi siya nasasaktan. Masaya na
siya diba? He already have his family.
Malungkot siyang ngumiti. "Let me show you something..."
Mas lalo akong naguluhan lalo na't tumayo siya para may kuning folder sa drawer ng
lamesa niya.
Iniabot niya sa'kin 'to. "Read this file. Not everything is in there because I'm
not the right person to say it to you."
Lalong gumulo. Ano ba 'to? Will this file answers why dad approved of him so much?
"Who's the right person to ask?"
"Your husband..." mabilis niyang sagot. "Just to inform you, I'm not sure if Osias
already know what's in that file."
Oh great! Then what would I ask him if I don't know what he already know or not?
Ang gulo pero alam ko naman na hindi ako ipapahamak ni daddy. I just need to
protect myself from pain. Lumaban at protektahan ang sarili.
Nagpapasalamat ako at wala si Osias nang lumabas ako. Kanina kasi ung mga tingin
niya parang ayaw akong lubayan.
Then what made him leave? I didn't care anyway.
Sinimulan kong basahin ang mga nakasaad sa binigay ni daddy. To say that I was
shock was an understatement. My emotion was beyond that.
Closing the file, I leaned back the headboard and shut my eyes tight. Hindi ko alam
kung anong gagawin ko sa mga nalaman. I was not even sure what everything was for.
This was too much. A story of a family that was broken by a tragic accident.
The thinking got me sleeping so deeply. Nakalimutan kong aalis pala ako next week.
"Are you okay?" Napalingon ako kay Terrence. He still didn't know.
Terrence was my comfort zone. I felt comfortable with him that's why I kept
thinking what might happen if he wouldn't be with me in Australia. Ang masama pa,
ung kasama ko.
Kabaliktaran ni Terrence. With him, everything seems not in order.
Nag-iwas ako ng tingin. "Dad's sending me to Australia."
"Should I go with you?"
Umiling ako. "Dad said no. I'm going with O-Osias..."
"What?" He said low with a shocked voice. "Are you sire you're okay with this?"
Ngumiti lang ako ng pilit sa kanya bago tumayo at kinuha ang mga gamit sa lamesa.
"I need to go. Inutusan ako ni daddy..."
"Ihahatid na kita."
"No need. Walking distance lang naman." Tinanong niya kung san ako pupunta pero
hindi ko ito sinagot. I just said that I needed to go.
Hindi siya ngumiti at tumango nalang. Lumabas ako sa coffee shop at nagsimulang
tahakin ang daan.
Dalawang kanto lang naman ang layo. Hapon na kaya di gaanong mainit. Tumayo ako sa
tapat ng isang malaking building.
ALF
So this was his new workplace. Daddy said he had his own business now. Good for
him.
Nagdadalawang isip akong tumuloy. Bakit kasi ako ang ginawang messenger ni daddy?
Pwede namang iba ang magbigay ng mga papeles sa kanya.
I didn't want to discuss this contract with him right now. I sighed. I should've
taken Terrence with me.
"Good morning. Bata sa'n ka?" The guard asked me after checking my bag.
Really? Do I look like a child?

Hindi ko siya pinansin at sumagot.
"I'm here for Atty. Alcazar..."
"Do'n nalang sa reception."
Ginawa ko ang sinabi niya. Nagbigay ako ng ID kapalit ng visitor's pass at

pinaakyat sa 20th floor kung sa'n ang opisina ni Osias. Okupado ng ALF ang 20th-
27th floor.
Ung mga kasabay ko sa elevator pinagtitinginan ako. Nakakailang lalo na't naririnig
ko silang tumatawa. That's why I didn't want to be in a crowd.
Pag-akyat ko sa main lobby ay pinagpalit ko ang visitor's pass sa isang temporary

badge. I was writing my name on the log book when the receptionist asked me.
"Applicant po ba for OJT?"
"Huh?" Nilapag ko ang ballpen. "I'm here to talk to Atty. Alcazar..."
"Ah ganon po ba? Paki check nalang po sa 27th floor. Guard pakisamahan si ineng sa
taas."
Gusto kong umalma sa tawag nita sa'kin pero di ko ginawa. Sinamahan ako ng guard sa
taas. Nang nasa elevator kami ay tinanong niya kung OJT daw ang sadya ko.
Bakit ba nila tinatanong sa'kin yon? Sinipat ko ang aking ayos. First day ng klase
kanina. Halata bang galing ako sa school?
Kung sa bagay, Terrence told me that wore a first day school get-up with my skirt
and high socks. Pati ipit ng buhok ko. Ang cute kasi ng napanood ko sa movie kaya
kinopya ko.
Pina-badge muna ako ng guard. Tumunog ang double glassed door bago siya nag badge
ng kanya.
"Kausapin daw ni Miss si Atty." ani ng guard sa babaeng mukhang strikta.
Maikli ang buhok nito at nakasalamin. Nakalong sleeve at parang minsan lang
ngumiti. Suddenly, the feeling of not getting on her bad side hit me. Parang lagot
ako 'pag nagalit siya.
"Hi, I'm Jesse his assistant. Atty's next meeting will start in any minute now so I
can't introduce you this time. Would you mind waiting for a couple of minutes?"
Magalang naman pala siya at nakangiti pa.
"That's fine."
"Thanks. Upo ka muna diyan sa waiting lobby..."
Katapat lang naman ng post niya ang waiting lobby. Just a sofa and a rack of
magazines on the side. Umupo ako at tinukod ang mga kamay sa gilid ko matapos
ilapag ang gamit sa gilid.
I roamed my eyes around the place. The place seemed so boring with white and black
walls. Buti nalang at may mga paintings at ilang malalaking paso ng halaman. Meron
din sa gilid ko katabi ng magazine rack.
I touched it. It's fake...
This place should have a lot of different flowers everywhere. Real ones.
"Jesse, is Osias ready?"
Oh no! I know that voice. Hindi nga ako nagkakamali nang tignan ko ang papalapit na
babae.
It's Jackie. She's here.
May kasama siya pero sa kanya lang ang tingin ko. Nakatalikod na siya sa'kin habang
nag-uusap sila ni Jesse. She was wearing a fitted below the knee skirt and white
crop top. Idagdag pa ang kumikinang na silver heeled shoes niya. A sophisticated
woman and I couldn't help but to compare a kid like me to her.
The moment she felt my gaze, she looked over her shoulder finding me staring at
her.
Kita ko ang gulat sa mata niya pero agad din itong nawala at hinarap si Jesse na
kakababa lang ng telepono.
"You can go in, Ma'am. Kanina pa daw siya naghihintay."
This was a bad idea. I shouldn't have come her. Sumasakit lang ang dibdib ko. I
busied myself on reading boring magazines. Habang ginagawa 'yon ay di ko maalis sa
isip ko ang mga tingin ni Jackie bago siya umalis. She gave me a look that said
that I should go home. Na wala akong mapapala.
I bit my lip. Should I go? Ang tagal na rin kasi akong naghihintay. It's almost an
hour now. Kanina may pumunta dito bago itong kausap ni Jesse ngayon. Naurong ata
ung appointment nila.
"Nasa loob pa ba sila, Jesse. May itatanong lang ako kay Atty."__
"Oo. Namove na ang next meeting ni Atty."
"Bakit ayaw pa kasing umamin ung dalawa."
Tuluyang nawala ang atensyon ko sa binabasa at tinutok ang pandinig sa kanila.
"They've got nothing going on between them, Eunice. Yun lang ba ang itatanong mo
kay Atty?"
I heard Eunice snickered. "Wala daw. Eh bakit pareho sila ng address? And how would
you explain the first name basis? Aba! Si Jackie lang ang may lakas ng loob na
tawagin ng gano'n ang nakakatakot na boss natin. Isa pa, everyone knows they know
each other way back plus the fact that our boss is married."
"You're going into employee details? Alam mo bang bawal 'yan?"
"I'm the HR manager. That's part of my job." Eunice laughed making their ambiance
light.
My ambiance however are the opposite.

Tumayo ako at nilapitan sila. Kapwa sila nagulat sa pagdating ko. "Sorry, Jesse.
Pwede bang sabihin mo nalang na pumunta ako at kunin sa bahay namin ung files. He
knows what I'm talking about. It's getting late."
"Pasensya na. You can leave the files here. Ako na ang magbibigay. Hectic kasi lagi
schedule ni Atty."
"Oo iwan mo nalang, ineng. Ibibigay naman 'yan." Segunda ng isa.
Umiling ako. "He needs to take the file personally."
"Gano'n ba? Sandali lang at itsi-check ko kung patapos na sila..." May paumanhing
sagot ni Jesse.
Tumawag siya. Ilang beses niyang inulit pero mukang sa sobrang busy ng dalawa ay
walang sumasagot. What are they doing inside anyway? I sighed and lost interest on
everything.
Hindi na ko nagpaalam. Umalis na agad ako matapos kunin ang mga files at sling bag
ko. Ang tagal kong naghintay sa wala. Nasayang lang oras ko. Ginutom pa ko.
I will never do this again. Kung gusto niya, kunin niya nalang sa bahay itong mga
files.
Nagbadge ako. Buti nalang bumukas. Bago ako lumabas ay tinawag pa 'ko ni Jesse. I
never looked back and immediately pressed the down buttons.
I looked up to see which of this six elevators would light it's to indicate that
it's going down. Tatlo sa harap ko at tatlo sa likod.
Malakas ang narinig kong tunog galing sa pinto. It was pushed open with so much
force that it screeched.
I snapped my head on the left just to see Osias came out from it.
"Lee..." He breathed.
"Osias, we still have one more case to discuss." Ani ni Jackie sa kanyan likod.
Bumalik ang tingin ko sa elevator at naghintay ngunit hindi maalis sa isip ko kung
pa'no ang kunot ng kanyang noo, kung pa'no tumigas ang kanyang panga at kung pa'no
niya ko tignan na para bang hindi makapaniwala ng makita ako.
Ramdam ko ang presensya niyang papalapit. Shït!
"You're here..." Marahan kong ibinuga ang hiningang aking pinigil bago siya
harapin.
"Daddy asked me to bring you this." Hindi niya pinansin ang inaabot kong folder at
nanatili ang tingin sa'kin.
"I thought you won't come. I cleared my schedule this morning."
I gulped. "Na late ako ng gising so we went straight to school."
"Let's go to my office."
Umiling ako. "Iaabot ko lang 'to. Kunin mo na." Jackie called him again that went
through deaf ears.
"How long did you wait?"
"Mga isang oras ata." Nangangawit na 'ko. Kainis. "Please take this."
The muscles around his jaw tightened as he took the file.
Nilingon ko ang tumunog na elevator. "I should go."
"Nagutom ka siguro. I'll ask someone to get us some snacks."
"No need. May meeting ka pa 'ata. Sa bahay nalang ako kakain."
"I'll just put this file inside then we'll get you something to eat."
Hindi na ko nakaalma nang pinaikot niya ang kamay sa aking bewang at igaya ako
papasok. Ang init ng palad niya ay tumatagos sa damit ko.
The door was still open as we went in passing Jackie who I was biting her lips and
was about to burst in silence. I just glanced at her like what she did to me
earlier.
"Do I still have appointments today, Ms. Locsin?"
"There's still-"
"Move them and follow us inside." Niyuko niya 'ko. "This won't take long, cuddle
cakes. May ibibilin lang ako."
Tumango nalang ako. Si Eunice at Jesse ay halatang nagtataka marahil kung bakit
gano'n kalambing ang boses niya sa'kin.
Sumunod sa'min si Jesse. Binitawan niya lang ako sa gilid ng magara niyang lamesa.
"Ms. Locsin, you may go after you call and notify my remaining appointments." Aniya
habang naglalagay ng mga gamit sa kanyang satchel kasama ang binigay ko.
Yun padin pala ang gamit niya...
"Yes, Atty."
"And one more thing..." mababang sabi nito habang nakatingin kay Jesse ng seryoso.
"Why didn't you tell me that she's here."
"Eh, A-Atty, kasi po dumating na agad si Ma'am Gardiola kaya-"
"Next time, Ms. Locsin I don't care who come and go before her. She's my wife and
my priority. Remember that."
I saw how Jesse's face turned nervous to shock. Nang tumingi siya sa'kin at nag-
iwas ako pero di ko napigilan ang bahagyang pag-iinit ng aking mukha.
He just told her that I was his wife when all they knew was he and Jackie were an
item.
Nasisiraan na siya ng bait. I was not his wife anymore.
Bumuntong hininga ako at bumaling sa kanya. My body stilled as I saw him already
looking at me, eying every inch of my body.
"You're still the cute little wife I know..." Umabante siya. Napalunok ako at
napaatras.
Kita ko ang sakit na dumantay sa kanyang mga mata bago ako nag-iwas at tinignan si
Jesse.
She's gone. Kelan pa? Did I space out?
Naramdaman ko na lang ang mahigpit niyang pagyakap sa'kin. "I miss you so much,
cuddle cakes. You don't know how much. I was dying everyday without you. Don't stay
away from me, Lee. Don't leave me again..."
Ilang beses niyang hinalikan ang ulo ko habang hinahaplos ang aking buhok. He used
to do that to me before so I couldn't help but to have that familiar emotions in
his actions.
I was happy and pained at the same time.
Hindi na ito gaya ng dati.
Nanatili akong nakayuko kahit na kumawala na siya sa yakap. His fingers touched my
chin but I moved away again before looking at him.
"Lee..."
"I'm sorry, Osias. Everything has changed now. The only thing that binding us is a
paper. I know what you and Jackie have. Ayoko ng gulo. Attorney ka naman diba? You
can arrange an annul-"
"Leanna." His call made me shut up.
Ganyan niya rin ako tawagin kapag may hindi siya nagustuhan. His eyes firm and
dark. His jaw clenched while he moved his hands in his pockets.
I gulped. "You're just hungry. C'mon, I'll buy you your favorite cake."
"I know what I want more than cake." Annulment. I mumbled enough for him to hear.
Kinuha niya ang susi sa lamesa at hinawakan ang kamay ko. "I can give you
everything you want in this world but not anything that will separate us again.
Remember our promise, my cute wife? Our tomorrow and forever will happen."
Mariin niyang sabi sa tonong siguradong sigurado siya.
"Those are illusions for kids. Wala namang gano'n sa totoong buhay."
"Nakalimutan mo na 'ata. I'm an attorney and I'm good at finding loopholes. If it's
a kids play, then I'll still take it. Don't worry about Jackie, cuddle cakes.
Sayung sayo lang naman ako."
Imbes na matuwa ako ay napasimangot pa 'ko. I remember the one that daddy gave me.
Should I ask him about that?
"P-pero may a-anak kayo..." I stuttered.
Natigilan siya sa sinabi ko. I saw the determination in his eyes turned dark and
gloomy. He looked away and squeezed my hand.
Mas lalo akong nasasaktan sa nakikita ko. This was the feeling that I didn't want
to feel with him. The pain of not completely having him. Dahil kahit ano pa ang
gawin namin, andyan parin ang katotohanang hindi ko na siya makukuha ng buo.
Jackie and their kid would always be there and there's nothing I could do about
that.
"Do you want to meet her?"
He's adding more salt to my wound. Yung sakit sa dibdib ko ay unti unting
bumibigat. My eyes started to get teary. I wanna get out of here.
"Lee..."
"No. I just want to go home."

Chapter 38-1
"ANDYAN NA ba lahat ng kailangan mo? Sinong balak mong dalhin sa kanila?"
I saw Terrence through my vanity mirror, picking my stuffed toy on bed one by one
and placing them back. Ngumiti lang ako at nagpatuloy sa pagpo-pony ng aking buhok.
"Bukas pa ang alis ko, Terry bear..."
"That's the point, baby doll. Bukas na 'yon pero kahit maleta mo hindi pa
nakalabas." I sighed in defeat and let go of my hair.
Bumagsak ito kasama ng pang-ipit ko. Bakit kasi ang kapal ng buhok ko. It's so
thick and untamable.
I heard Terrence chuckled and I scowled through the mirror. "Ako na nga..."
Dinampot nito ang ipit ko sa sahig at nagsimula akong ipitan.
"Which of your toys?"
"Si Dolly at Mimi."
"Bakit hindi si Kitty na kapatid niya?"
"Because I already took Kitty last time." I reasoned out. Sakto namang tapos na
siya sa ginagawa. I pouted.
Bakit 'pag siya ang bilis? Bakit 'pag ako ang nag-aayos inaabot ako ng isang oras?
"Ako nang mag-aayos ng mga dadalhin mo..."
"No need. I can do it." Tumayo ako at binuksan ang aking cabintet. Hinatak ko ang
malaking maleta ko palabas.
"Good luck with that. I know you too much to know that you'll be lazy and you'll
rush it 'til last second." He said chuckling.
Ngumiwi lang ako sa kanya at nagsimulang maglagay ng mga damit sa maleta.
"I'll leave you here. Ako nalang bahalang magtapos ng ginagawa mo mamaya." Dagdag
niya pa.
Ilang minuto pa ay tinamad na 'ko. Parang mga ilang damit lang ang naglagay ko at
mga underwear. Nakakainis si Terrence. Hindi dahil iniwan niya 'ko kung hindi dahil
tama siya sa mga pinagsasabi. Nakaramdam agad ako ng pagkatamad sa ginagawa.
I sighed and looked at my wrist watch. Daddy should be here any minute now. Hindi
kasi pwedeng hindi kami magsabay sa hapunan na kahit marami siyang trabaho, lagi
niyang sinisigurado na makakauwi siya.
"How's your day, anak?"
"All good! How about you, dad?" Nakangiti kong sagot. Kasalukuyan kaming kumakaing
tatlo kasama si Terrence. Ang daming ulam. May fried chicken, fried fish, adobo,
salad, caldereta at adobo.
"Same with all those works but we're close to fixing all the knots with the
business."
"That's good to hear. You're my dad so I know you can do it!" Natawa silang dalawa
na ikinanguso ko.
"Ang lakas mambola." Terrence chuckled.
"I did not! Totoo yung mga sinabi ko!"
"You're my daughter so I expect that you and Osias would fix the problem in
Australia. What time's your flight?"
Nawala ang ngiti ko. Ganoon din ang kay Terrence na nasa harap ko nakaupo.
Nagpatuloy siya sa pagkain.
"4PM po."
"Why so late? I'll call Osias to take an early flight. It's an 8-hour travel, anak.
Hindi ka makakatulog ng maayos sa eroplano."
"No, daddy it's okay. Sanay na ko sa gano'n. We took a lot of travelling before,
remember?"
He just nodded before drinking water. Dad asked about if I already packed. Of
course Terrence didn't fail to mock my lack of interest on that part. Natawa lang
si daddy na naman.
Tapos na kaming kumain kanina pa at nagpapahinga nalang kami sa may salas ni daddy
habang nanonood ng TV. Terrence already left to go home.
"I forgot, hija. There's still the last file I forgot to give Osias. It's the
original contract. Kunin mo sa'kin mamaya bago ka matulog. Makakatulong ito sa
gagawin niyo."
"Opo, daddy."
Pilit kong 'wag isiping aalis na kami bukas. Kinakabahan parin ako pero bahala na
kung ano ang mangyayari sa loob ng isang bwan.
The next day, I was shocked to see Osias in our home early in the morning. Naunahan
niya pa si Terrence na bumisita na si daddy na umalis.
"Good morning, Cuddle cakes." Nakangiti niyang bati.
"Good m-morning din."

Sinalubong niya ko sa pagbaba at binigyan ng halik sa pisngi. Dumating sina Softie
at Doggie. Doggie barked at him a couple of times before running away. Softie came
rushing, wiggling his tail at him before he picked him up.
I had the chance to eye him. He's wearing a brown pants and blue dress shirt with
the sleeves rolled just above his elbows. Gone with the business man and terror
attorney. Napaka casual niyang tignan.
Bagay sa kanya.
"Osias, welcome!" Agad akong pumunta kay daddy at hinalikan siya sa pisngi bago
batiin ng magandang umaga.
Osias carefully placed Softie down. Pinunas niya ang kamay sa kanyang pants saglit
bago kamayan si daddy.
"Did you already eat breakfast?"
"Yes, Dad."
Dad? Seriously? Tinawag niyang dad ang daddy ko. Dati Papa tapos ngayon dad na? Ang
hindi ko makuha ay kung bakit okay lang kay daddy 'yon. Unbelievable.
"Eat your breakfast, darling. Osias and I will talk for a moment before you guys
leave."
"Ikaw, daddy?"
"Already did. Terrence won't be here today. He have Saturday classes."
Ang boring sa hapag kainan. Hindi ako sanay na wala sina daddy at Terrence na
kadaldalan ko habang kumakain.
Naisip ko, ganito rin kaya ako sa Australia? Mag-isang kumakain habang
nagtratrabaho si Osias? O baka naman kasama ko siyang kumain pero parang wala rin
dahil hindi kami nag-uusap.
Ang tagal nilang mag-usap. Sa sobrang tagal ay nagtanghalian na. Do'n ko lang sila
nakasama.
Terrence and I were talking on the phone while I was waiting for them to join me on
the table. Buti nalang at lunch break ni Terry bear at nakausap ko pa siya bago
kami umalis.
"I want you to focus on this Leanna. I want you to learn all there is to learn
about business."
"Yes, daddy."
"Osias, guide her. I trust you okay?" Seryosong bilin ni daddy sa kanya.
"You can count on me, dad. Hindi ko siya pababayaan."
Napayuko ako at kumain. Napakaseryoso nilang mag-usap. I was not sure if that's
even about business anymore. I felt like daddy's giving me away.
Binaba ni Mhela at Karen ang dalawang maleta ko. Hinanda naman ng driver ni Osias
ang sasakyan niya.
I was saying goodbye to Mhela and Karen while dad and Osias were still talking
seriously. Narinig kong nagbilin si daddy tungkol sa mga Australian investors.
I took a look at my wrist watch. It's almost one. I pouted and sighed because I had
no time to say goodbye to Terrence. Two kasi ang labas niya.
Bakit kasi ang aga naming umalis?
"Are you comfortable here?"
Tumango lamang ako bilang tugon sa tanong ni Osias. Kakapasok niya lang sa loob ng
sasakyan. Hindi pa kami tuluyang nakakaalis ay parang naho-homesick agad ako.
Bakit kaya?
"I'll just meet someone at my office." Tumango ako at nanahimik ngunit lagi ko
siyang pinapakiramdaman. Hinanap ng kamay niya ang kamay ko at hinalikan.
Napatingin ako do'n lalo na sa ngiti niya.
Nag-iwas ako ng tingin dahil ayokong makita niya ang pamumula sa aking mga pisngi.
"I remember how you used to point everything you see outside the car."
"I'm not stupid anymore. I already know a lot of things including this place."
"Don't say that. You were never stupid. You lack information, yes! But never
stupid."
Hindi na ko nagsalita pero hindi ko maiwasang hindi matuwa sa kanyang sinabi.
Dumiretso ang sasakyan sa parking lot. Kahit saglit lang ay hindi niya binitawan
ang aking kamay. Even when he got down. Yumuko siya para silipin ako mula sa labas.
Hindi kasi ako nagpahatak sa kanya.
"I'll wait here."
"Sumama ka na. I don't want you getting bored here."
"Nandito naman si kuya..." patukoy ko sa driver.
"Mang Tonyo will not talk to you."
Kinunutan ko siya ng noo sa kanyang sinabi. Bumaba nalang din ako at sumama para
wala nang gulo.
Wala talaga siguro siyang balak bitawan ang kamay ko. I got worries because someone
might enter the elevator and saw us like that then I remembered that it's Saturday.
Wala nga palang pasok ang iba.
I didn't see Jesse when we passed by her post. Nang papasok na kami ay hinila ko
ang aking kamay. Napatingin siya sa'kin.
"Restroom lang..."
"Turn left at the end of the hallway." Aniya habang marahang binitawan ang aking
kamay.
Namangha ako sa banyo. Ang bango, ang laki at ang linis. Naalala ko noon, ang
pagiging malinis daw ng banyo ang magdidikta ng sasabihin ng ibang tao sa kompanya.
I found it true dahil mas tumatatak sa'kin ang ayos ng banyo kaysa sa kabuuan ng
isang gusali.
I was washing my hands when the door opened. I took a glance at the new comer and
stopped.
"Hi, Leanna."
I didn't answer her. I pulled some tissues and dried my hands before rushing out
only to be stopped.
"Osias told me that you're spending a month in Australia. I said yes because he
wanted to help your father but keep in mind na sa'kin parin siya uuwi pagkatapos
niyo. Sa'min ng anak niya."
Kinabahan ako dahil nakakaramdam ako ng gulo na pwedeng maganap. But then, the pain
from what she told me cut deep in my chest.
Ipinapamukha niya sa'kin na nanghihiram lang ako kahit hindi naman. Dad asked him.
Hindi ko siya pinilit kaya wala siyang karapatang sabihin 'yan sa'kin.
"I didn't even want to come with him. He's all yours if you want."
Nakatalikod parin ako sa kanya habang nagsasalita. Humakbang muli ako pero
hinawakan niya ang aking braso. Napaharap ako at napasinghap.
Mas lalong dumagundong ang puso ko. Ayoko ng away.
"You don't have the rights anymore, Leanna. Sa papel nalang. And to tell you
honestly, that's the case Osias and I were planning to solve. Your annulment
papers."
"B-Bitawan mo ko."
Naluha ako sa diin ng kuko niya. "No. Not until you leave us alone. Masaya na
kaming pamilya at hindi ako papayag na guluhin mo ang pinaghirapan ko.
Pinaghirapan?
Naalala ko ung binasa kong file na binigay ni daddy. Siya 'yon. Siya ang may
kasalanan.
"Sasabihin k-ko..." pinilit kong maging matapang. Bumatay ang pagtataka sa kanya
bago ngumiti.
"Good. Tell him you want an annulment."
"Hindi." I tried to pulled my arm back. "I will help him that you drugged him that
night. I will tell him that you and a guy named Mark did it. I know everything you
did. Sasabihin ko sa kanya lahat kapag di mo ko binitawan!"
Lumuwag ang kapit niya sa gulat. I took that chance to pushed her away from me.
Napaurong siya habang namumutla ay gulat na gulat.
Agad akong tumakbo sa pintuan at lumabas. Iniwan ko siyang gano'n habang umiiyak
naman ako.
Natatakot ako. Natatakot ako sa pwede niyang gawin sakin do'n sa loob. Galit na
galit siya. Nakita ko. Kaya niya kong saktan.
Tumakbo ako ng tumakbo hanggang sa may makabangga. He held me by the waist to

steady my balance.
"Lee? What happened?"
I looked back to check if Jackie followed me but he cupped me by my face to look at

him.
"B-Blakey..."
"Yes, it's me. It's Blakey." Kahit na malabo ang mata ko dahil sa luha ay alam kong
may saya ngunit pag-aalala sa kanyang boses.
Tuluyan ko siyang nakita matapos niyang punasan ang aking mga luha.
"What's wrong? Why are you crying?"
I pushed him away remembering what happened. Pumunta kami dito para kausapin niya
si Jackie. If they wanted each other then count me out of the picture. Ayaw niya
daw ng annulment e inaayos na pala nila.
Liar.
"Mauna na ko sa b-baba."
"Lee, what's happening? Tell me, please?" He pleaded reaching his hand to mine.
Gusto ko nang umalis kaso nakaharang siya sa daan.
"Atty. Alcazar?"
"I'm sorry, Atty. Ricardo. Let's talk some other time. My wife and I need to go."
Aniya ng nakatingin sa'kin. Pinunasan ko ang aking mga mata at tinignan ang
lalaking kasama niya pala.
"I'll send you email with the details. I can see your priority above this job. I'll
go first."
I was looking at the man walking away when Osias held my hand. He dragged me to the
direction when I came from.
Binuksan niya ito agad at tinignan ang buong lugar.
"Who are you with in here?"
Hindi ako sumagot.
"Who made my wife cry? Tell me because seeing you cry and have nothing to do about
it made me feel useless."
"I want to go home."
"No. We're not leaving until you tell me."
I bit my lips before scowling at him. "Fine! I'll tell you. I don't want to be with
a liar like you. I want to go home!"
I bursted, crying. I couldn't keep the pain and tears anymore. Kahit anong pigil
ko, lumalabas parin sila.
Hinila niya ko ng marahan at dahan dahang pinaloob sa kanyang yakap.
I just kept on crying. Inside his embrace was the most comfortable and safe
feeling.
I love and hate that feeling.
"Don't cry, cuddle cakes. I'm sorry..."
"L-Liar. Take me home."
"If that's what you want..."
He was the one you fixed my appearance. Pinunasan niya ang mukha ko ng tissue at
inayos ang aking buhok. I just let him. I was so tired to fight.
Totoo kaya ang sinabi niya na uuwi na kami. Pa'no ung trabaho namin sa Australia.
Hindi kaya magagalit sa'kin si daddy?
I remained silent 'til we went in to the car. He held me close to him as I had my
head on his chest.
"We're here, cuddle cakes."
"Sa'n to?" I thought he'd take me home.
"This was my home when you left." Tiningala ko ang isang two-storey house.
It's small from what type we lived in but you know it's secured because of the big
gate with guards watching it.
"Your home? How about o-our house before?" Alangan kong tanong.
He smiled sadly. "It's not the same without you. But you're here now. My real home
finally came back..."
Chapter 38-2
I WAS DRAINED.
Not physically but emotionally.
Dinala niya ko sa isang kwarto. He said it was his. I was not feeling comfortable
at first but I wanted to rest so bad that I ended up sleeping immediately.
Nagising ako nang bumukas ang pinto. Napabalikgwas ako ng bangon at kinakabahang
napatingin dito.
Why did I forget to lock it?
"It's only me, cuddle cakes..."
Agad na guminhawa ang pakiramdam ko nang makita siya. Ibinulsa niya ang telepono na
nakatapat sa tenga niya kanina at lumapit sa'kin.
"Open door still bothers you while you sleep..." His statement made me nod slowly.
I shift my body to seat properly. Umurong siya bahagya para bigyan ako ng espasyo.
Awa at pag-aalala ang nakita ko sa kanyang mga mata nang magkatinginan kami.
I never got over that. That feeling every time I went to sleep with the doors being
opened. Having trauma caused me to also have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The
doctor explained that to us and we were not sure if I could be cured to this.
"I already called your dad and told him what happened."
"No!" I shrieked. "He'll get mad at me"
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko. "Don't worry, cuddle cakes I told him I changed our
flight tomorrow so we won't tire ourselves."
"So h-he's not mad?"
He smiled with assurance. "As a matter of fact, he insisted so no, he's not mad and
I know that he would never be mad at anything you do. He could be upset sometimes
but definitely not mad. He loves you so much for that."
He pulled me closer and kissed my forehead. This feeling was very comfortable, warm
and it felt like perfect.
I wanted this feeling to last forever but I know I couldn't have it.
Sa lahat ng nangyari sa'kin. May natutunan naman ako. Iyon ay ang 'wag gustuhin ang
hindi pwedeng gustuhin at hindi mo pwedeng makuha.
This would cause jealousy, anger, envy, hurt and sadness. All negative emotions and
situations that I didn't want to experience again.
"Dinner's ready. Bukas ng umaga ang flight natin."
Hawak hawak niya ang aking kamay nang pumunta kami sa hapag.
"Is she up, Osias?" Kumunot ang noo ko sa babaeng nakatalikod sa'min habang
naglalagay ng mga plato sa lamesa. After placing the third plate, she turned to us.
"Mommy Betty!"
I run and hugged her. Narinig ko ang ungol ng pagkabigla niya na ikinabungisngis ko
lamang.
"Oh-okay...I got it, daughter-in-law. You missed me." She tapped my back that made
me giggle more. "You're wrinkling my fine dress, Leanna."
Lumayo ako sa kanya ng bahagya at tinignan siya nang may malawak na ngiti.
"I'm sorry, Mommy Betty."
"Just stop the hugging so we can eat, darling."
I immediately took my hands off her and stepped back. She gave me a welcoming smile
and roamed her eyes all over me. Marahan niyang hinawakan ang aking pisngi.
"You changed a lot, hija." Ang malawak kong ngiti ay naging pilit.
"Ladies, can we take our seats to eat?"
Napalingon kami kay Osias na humatak ng upuan. Mommy Betty took a seat and thanked
him. Naghila muli si Osias ng isa at doon ako pinaupo. I didn't forget my manners
and thanked him.
"I was really surprised when you called me saying that you brought your wife here,
Osias."
"I know you'll be, mom. As well as delighted."
Sumulyap sa'kin si mommy Betty ng nakangiti. "Yes, I am." She continued eating.
"I must say, Osias. With everything that you decided within the last two years,
this is far from stupid."
"Mom..."
"Oh shhh, Osias. You know what, hija. My mother and I lived here when my father
decided to leave us to be with his woman so you can see how important this house to
me. Even though I got married, this house is where I always come back. One day,
this son of mine decided to stay here and I know he's feeling the same thing I'm
feeling in this place. Security, peace...home. So I'll be welcoming you here also
with open arms. You can stay here as long as you want. "
"Thanks, Mommy Betty."
Habang ngumunguya si Mommy Betty ay umangat ang isang gilid ng kanyang labi. We
remained quiet after awhile before she started asking questions about what happened
to me in states. I told them my adventures with daddy and Terrece. The places we've
been to and the food we ate until one statement made my body as well as my heart
stopped.
"A grandchild from the both of you is the only one missing here."
"Mom!" Hindi ko alam kung sa sigaw ba ni Osias o dahil napagtanto niya ang sinabi
kaya siya gulat na napasinghap.Nabitawan niya ang mga kubyertos na kumalansing sa
plato nang takpan niya ang kanyang bibig.
"I-I'm so sorry, Osias...L-Leanna, I didn't mean t-to."
Bumalik naman sa isip ko ang pagkawala ng aking anak. Kinagat ko ang aking ibabang
labi para pigilan ang panginginig nito.
"Cuddle cakes..."
"It's okay...I'm o-okay."
Nanginginig kong sabi. Inakbayan agad ako nito at niyakap. Hinaplos niya ang aking
buhok at hinalikan. Do'n na bumuhos ang mga luha kong pilit kong pinipigilan.
"Daddy s-said I didn't have a b-baby but I know-"
"Shh, I'm sorry, Lee. I shouldn't have left you that night. It's my fault. I'm
sorry."
Umiyak ako sa dibdib niya. Nawala na ang gutom ko at napalitan ng pananakip ng

dibdib at sakit.
Dapat may baby na din ako at masaya. Susuklayin ang kanyang buhok at aayusan. Or
maybe he could be a little boy playing with my Doggie and Softie.
Matapos nang nangyari sa hapag ay inasikaso nila ako lalo na si Osias. Mommy Betty
was careful with her words. Puro mga masasayang bagay at konting bilin ang sinasabi
niya. We watched funny movies and Osias was always aware of what I needed and
wanted. Inaalalayan niya ako at inaalagaan sa lahat.
I know that they were doing that to avert or made me forget the things that
happened earlier. I appreciated that and made sure that they'd see me smile always.
I made sure to fake my smile, my happy tone of voice and everything to cover my
sadness.
They were sweet and gently especially Osias. Ayoko namang maging pabigat at bigyan
sila ng aalahanin.
Kinabukasan ay umalis kami ng maaga para sa flight namin. I got a call from daddy
before we left. Mommy Betty said that she'd be waiting for us to go home. Nakita
kong may sinabi siya kay Osias na ikinaseryoso ng mukha ng huli.
Nang nasa eroplano ay walang tigil ang pagtatanong ni Osias ng mga kailangan ko. He
would ask me from time to time if I was comfortable even when he's facing his
laptop to work or even after a phone call.
"Our hotel reservation was cancelled because of our delay. Dad told me that we
could use your house here. Ismael will pick us up."
Aniya nang malapit na kaming bumaba. Si Ismael ay ang family driver namin dito sa
Australia.
Our house was located in Bendigo, Australia. The favorite place I always visit was
Rosalind Park.
Pwede kaya kaming puntahan 'yon kahit saglit lang?
"How are you Miss Leanna? Sir?" Nakangiting bati ni Minerva.
She's the head mistress here in our house. Hindi ganoong kalaki ang bahay namin
dito kaysa sa Pilipinas. This place only had five bedrooms.
"Minerva." I called her when I entered my room. "Why do I only have two pillows?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Leanna. Your arrival was unexpected. We were already cleaning all
the sheets when your father called us earlier."
"Do the guest rooms have extra pillows?"
"None, Miss Leanna. We're very sorry for that."
I sighed and let her go. Paano ako nito makakatulog?
Sanay kasi akong apat ang unan ko. Dalawa sa ulunan, isang yakap ko at isa sa
pagitan ng aking mga hita. I could settled with three 'cause I could hug my stuffed
toys but two? I was not sure if I could sleep comfortably.
Hapunan na ng makababa ako. Hindi ko nakita maghapon si Osias dahil nagsimula na

siyang magtrabaho.
Tomorrow we would go to visit our company then in the afternoon, I would start my
online classes.
The time to sleep came and I was right. I couldn't catch my sleep. I would toss and
turn just to have that comfortable position but I couldn't. I have Dolly and Mimi
in my arms they were not enough.
Nakakainis.
Napamulat ako ng mata ng may kumatok. The door was locked so I needed to stood up
to open it.
Nagtaka ako nang makita si Osias sa labas ng kwarto ko na may dalang unan. He was
wearing a gray shirt and his boxers.
Napayuko ako agad dahil ayaw kong mahuli niya kong tinitignan ang kabuuan ng
natipuno niyang katawan. Gosh! His body became better than I remember.
"Here..." kumunot ang noo ko sa inaabot niyang unan.
"You can have this, Lee."
"Why?"
"I know you can't sleep with only two pillows."
Bumalik ang tingin ko sa kanya. "How about you?"
Kapag binigay niya sa'kin 'to, isa nalang unan niya. I too know that he couldn't
sleep with just a pillow. Laging dalawa unan niya eh.
"I'm fine. What's important is that you're comfortable."
Ang mga salita niya ay humaplos sa puso ko. Dahan dahan ko itong tinanggap dahil
hindi ko alam ang sasabihin.
Alam kong pagod siya. I could see the dark circles under his eyes.
Hindi ko parin magawang makatulog dahil sa nangyari. Mas lalo ata akong nahirapan
dahil nakokonsensya ako.
Kahapon palang ay nagtratrabaho na siya ng walang tigil. He's just stopping to

cater my needs. Kailangan niya ring matulog ng kumportable.
Guilt not just kept me awake but led me in front of his room with all three
pillows. Binaba ko sila para kumatok.
No one answered. Maybe he's already asleep.
Nilabanan ko ang sarili ko kung babalik nalang ba 'ko sa kwarto ko o magpupumilit

pa. Sa huli ay marahan kong binuksan ang pintuan niya.
Sumilip lang ako. "Cuddle cakes?"
Nakita ko siyang nakaupo sa gilid ng kama, mapungay ang mga mata at halatang antuk
na antok na. Lalo tuloy ako nakaramdam ng guilt at awa.
Kinuha ko ang mga unan at pumasok. I never said anything and placed them all neatly
in his bed. He didn't speak either but I knew that he's looking at me.
"You wanna sleep here, my cute wife?"
Nang tignan ko siya ay kagat kagat nito ang kanyang labi para pigilan ang
nagbabadyang ngiti. Napanguso ako at tumakbo pabalik sa aking kwarto.
Kinuha ko sina Dolly at Mimi. Nang pabalik na ko ay kakalabas niya lang ng kwarto.
I stopped as he walked closer. His hawk eyes nailed into my soft ones like I would
disappear if he remove them even for a second. His intense gaze sent shivers and
heat down to my spine directly to my inner core.
I was so distracted with that sensation that I didn't realize that we're already
toe to toe until I felt his breathe fanning my cheek.
My hold with my stuffed toys tightened as I slowly closed my eyes, anticipating

that he would kiss me. My lips tingled with every moment waiting for his to touch
mine.
It never came.
Sa halip ay naramdaman ko ang paa kong umangat sa ere.
Napatili ako at agad na pinulupot ang mga binti sa kanyang bewang.
"Hold on tight, my wife." He chuckled as I did what he said.
Niyakap ko ang kanyang leeg and sinandal ang ulo sa kanyang balikat. Agad kong
naramdaman ang antok na tinakasan ako kanina.
Kagaya ito nang dati. He would carry me like this to bed. He would tuck me and
covered my body with the sheets before asking me if I was comfortable like what
he's doing.
"Who's this?" Turo niya sa yakap ko.
"This is Mimi. Kitty's sister."
"Hmm..." Pumupungay na ang mga mata ko sa antok pero narinig ko ang saya sa boses
niya.
"This is Dolly. Terrence kept him safe for me."
"Hmmm." His tone changed.
Naramdaman kong kinuha niya ang mga yakap ko pero dahil sa sobrang antok ko ay
napaungol nalang ako bilang protesta.
"You don't need them to hug at night anymore. I'm taking that job back."
He took my hands and wrapped them around his waists. Inunan niya naman ulo ko sa
kanyang braso at hinapit pa ko palapit. Niyakap ko siya ng mahigpit at idinantay
ang binti ko sa binti niya.
"Good night, cuddle cakes."
Inaantok na talaga ako at papikit pikit na ang mga maga ko sa sobrang antok.
Tiredness was dragging me to sleep but before I succumb to it, I felt this softness
pressed down against my lips and I must say, I had the best sleep I had for two
years.
Chapter 39
"ANG HIRAP naman nito!" I exclaimed and flopped my face on the pillow in from of
me.
Nasa kama ako at nakadapa habang nakaharap sa laptop. I've been studying the lesson
that my online teacher left me.
Kakatapos lang ng online session ko kanina. Video call ang medium namin. My
professor was very patience and understanding with how I cope up with my studies.
Aaminin ko, hindi naman ako gano'n katalino gaya ni Terrence kaya nga thankful ako
dahil pasesnsyoso siya.
Mr. Mitanes gave me an assignment. Unfortunately, it was Math. Calculus to be

exact. Freaking Calculus.
"You can do it, baby doll. Nasa number three na tayo."
Nag-angat ako ng ulo at tinignan ang nakangiting mukha ni Terrence sa laptop.

Kagaya ko ay nasa kwarto rin siya sa bahay nila. Nakapambahay na siya sa suot
niyang puti at berdeng jersey sando. Of course, hindi mawawala ang salamin niya sa
mata.
"That's the problem. We're only on number three and my brain is already giving up."
Humalakhak siya at napanguso nalang ako sa reaksyon niya. I sat up in an indian

position fast and placed the laptop on my thighs.
"Can't you just answer the assignment for me? Please, Terrybear?" I smiled sweetly
at him and threw my most cutest puppy dog eyes.
Nanahimik siya. Sige na Terrence. Alam kong hindi mo ko matitiis.
"No." I groaned and whined after he gave me his flat no. "Hindi ka matututo kung
ipapagawa mo lahat sa iba. You need to do this on your own, baby doll. Sige na.
Para sa'yo rin naman lahat 'to."
"Okay." I sighed in defeat and focused on the assignment.
Nahirapan man ako sa kakaisip ay natapos ko naman siya sa tulong ni Terrence. Halos
hindi maipinta ang mukha ko sa kasiyahan dahil nagawa ko silang lahat ng tama.
Terrence double checked them for me and pointed out all my mistakes and how to fix
them.
Feeling ko ang galing galing ko na sa calculus dahil tama sila. Ang sarap pala sa
pakiramdam na may na-accomplish ka kahit ganito lang kasimple. Tama pala lahat ng
sinabi ni Terrence. I need to do this for myself.
"I'm confident that you can explain how you solve this when Mr. Mitanes asked you.
Maasahan ba kita, baby doll?"
"Oo naman. You can count on me. Magaling 'ata kami ng tutor ko."
Umalingawngaw ang halakhak niya kasabay ng malaki kong ngiti. "Ang galing mo
talagang mang-uto."
"Hindi, ah. Totoo 'yon."

"Sige. Naniniwala na 'ko."
Kapwa kami natawa kasabay ng pagbukas ng pintuan. Natanggal ang paningin ko sa

masayang mukha ni Terrence at dumapo sa madilim na mukha ni Osias.
His lips on a thin line and his jaw clenched making me lose my smile. Tumingin muli
ako kay Terrence nang magbilin siya na mag-review ako sa free time.
"Will do. Let's talk tomorrow. Baka may-"
"It's time for dinner, wife." Nabigla ako at napa-angat ng tingin. Hindi ko
namalayan na nakalapit na siya at nakapamulsa sa tagiliran ko.
"S-Sige."
Alam kong nakita ni Terrence si Osias dahil hagip siya sa camera. Ganun din ang
huli na nakadungaw na sa monitor.
Nagpaalam kami sa isa't isa ni Terrence. Pinakinggan ko lahat ng bilin niya pero
hindi ko maintindihan ng maayos dahil pinapakiramdaman ko ung kasama ko sa kwarto.
I could sense that he's listening at looking at what I was doing. Ramdam ko ang
tindi ng mga tingin niya kaya pati kilos ko kalkulado. I felt like I should be
conscious on what I would say or do. Gano'n ang pakiramdam ko hanggang sa maitabi
ko ang laptop.
"Are you done with work?"
Inayos ko ang mga libro at notebook na ginamit. Bago nag-angat ng tingin para sa
sagot niya.
"Not yet. You can sleep first later. I need to finish reviewing some consumer
laws."
Tumango ako. Inilapat niya ang palad sa ibaba ng aking likuran para igayak palabas
na ikinainit ng mukha ko.
"Do you need help? After all, we should be doing this together like what daddy
wants, right?"
"Don't worry about it. We will discuss everything tomorrow at the office before the
hearing starts."
Hindi na ko sumagot. Nang pababa kami ng hagdan ay lumipat sa kamay ko ang hawak
niya.
Lagpas isang bwan na kami dito. The initial plan was for only a month but then,
Osias found a solution to the problem.
Ang problema ay ang unti unting pagkalugi ng branch namin dito sa Australia.
Nalaman namin na paunti ng paunti ang bumibili dahil sa kalaban sa negosyo. Ang
Lassy's Fine Jewelries.
What happened was that we found out that out competitor had a deal with some top
event planners and coordinators.
Halimbawa, ang event ay isang kasal at makakakuha sila ng discount kung sa Lassy's
lang sila kukuha ng singsing.
It seemed like a simple offer but that was against the Australian Consumer Law and
Fair Trading.
Osias filed a case at Australian Competition and Consumer Commission or ACCC

against the Lassy's and we will have our second hearing tomorrow afternoon.
I was watching TV while he read and reviewed some papers. Kitang kita ko ang
pagiging seryoso niya sa ginagawa na parang di pwede siyang istorbohin pero gusto
ko talagang magtanong.
"I can help you review them if you like?"
"It's okay, cuddle cakes. Patapos na rin naman 'to eh." Aniya nang hindi tumitingin
sa'kin.
I took in a breath. "Are we going to win the court hearing tomorrow?"
Nag-angat siya ng tingin. "Of course, cuddle cakes. We have the advantage. Wala ka
bang tiwala sa asawa mo?"
I know it was a joke by the way his lips curved upward but I felt a sting on my
heart with his last words.
And there goes the word that never failed to stab my heart. Asawa? The essence of
that word was suffocating me. Binalik ko ang paningin sa TV kung saan pinapalabas
ang isang unggoy na nag-angat ng baby cub.
Iniisip ko ang sinabi niya. Maybe we were. After all, we were sharing the same bed
now. Pero 'yun na ba 'yon?
I thought not.
The next night after we slept together, I decided to sleep alone. I could manage
because I have four pillows already but that night, he went to my room and insisted
that we slept together.
Ang sabi niya di siya makatulog. I doubt it. Sa sobrang pagod namin no'n dahil sa
trabaho, kahit sino agad makakatulog kahit sa lapag lang.
Ang set-up namin ay, it's either he carries me to my room or his room. Every night
gano'n.
Every night ding masaya ang pakiramdam ko bago matulog.
Dumating kami ng maaga sa opisina. Tinuturuan ako ni Osias sa mga pasikut sikot sa
trabaho lalo na sa problemang dapat naming solusyunan.
"As you can see, there is a big difference here in Australia and Philippines in
terms of business and fair competition..."
My focus was solely on what he's telling and teaching me. Nakakamangha. Nakilala ko
agad ang batas dito sa Australia tungkol sa business.
Gusto kong matutunan ang lahat at sasabihin ko kay daddy na kung pwede dito nalang
ako.
"Sa hiring mamaya, I want you to listen and observe very keenly. Watch out for
details. Take notes if throughout the hearing. Okay, Lee?"
Wala akong nagawa kung hindi ang tumango. Kaya naman pala ilag at takot ang ibang
mga empleyado sa kanya dahil sa napaka-istrikto nito.
His every words were the rules. He looked at them like he's judging and no errors
were allowed.
Ne needed to loosen up! Hindi naman siya ganyan sa'kin. Kawawa tuloy ung mga
empleyado.
Nang makauwi kami sa bahay ay diretso agad ako sa pag-aaral online. Terrence and I
chatted a bit because we both need to do something else. Siya ang thesis paper niya
at ako naman ay magre-reveiew kasama ni Osias sa mga nangyari.
Osias made sure to explain everything I was confused about. I could say that he's a
good teacher. Nakukuha ko agad lahat ng paliwanag niya lalo pa't nagbibigay siya ng
mga halimbawang scenario.
Nang papikit pikit na ko ay hininto na namin.
Sabado pero may klase ako. Sabi ni Mr. Mitanes ay mag review daw ako dahil may long
quiz ako next week. The passing score was 80%. Also, I have to take 4 long quizzes
for 4 subjects so imagine how nervous I was.
Terrence helped me with the review. Si Osias ay busy parin sa ginagawa at halos
hindi ko na siya nakita nang araw na 'yon. Lumabas din siya at nakipagkita pa sa
dalawang attorney na katuwang namin sa kaso. Hindi niya na 'ko pinasama kasi magre-
review nga ako.
Napagod ako sa kaka-review. Feeling ko natuyo ang aking utak. Napatingin ako sa
labas ng bintana mula sa living room. Ang ganda ng panahon sa labas. I sighed as I
felt the tiredness of my brain and body.
Pabugsu bugso ang panahon dito sa Australia. Ang ganda ng panahon pero nasa loob
parin kami. Kung hindi nagtra-trabaho ay nag-aaral naman kami. Nakakainip. Gusto
kong lumabas at magliwaliw. Papayag kaya si Osias?
Nagbukas ako ng isang tab sa browser at hinanap ung event na nakita ko sa facebook
kahapon. It was a concert and my favorite violist was going to be a guest. I wanted
to watch her play. Gusto ko sanang sabihin kay Osias kahapon pero sobrang busy
niya. 'Wag na nga lang.
"What's that?"
Napapitlag ako ng bahagya at napalingon. My mouth opened in shocked to see Osias

standing behind the sofa I was sitting, hovering above me and looking at the
laptop. Nakasabit ang coat niya sa braso at maluwag ang necktie. Nadepina ang umbok
ng kanyang mga braso dahil sa puting dress shirt niya.
My cheeks flared with the thought of how beautiful this guy was.
"A concert?" Nagpakad siya at tumabi sa'kin matapos ilapag ang kanyang attaché case
sa sahig.
"Ha? Y-Yes." Bulong ko nang nakatingin sa monitor.
"Do you want to watch?" Sa narinig ko ay bigla akong nakaramdamn ng excitement. I

looked at him. He too was looking at me and smiling.
"Really? We can watch Lindsey Sterling?"

"Who's that?"
"Just the most awesome violist in the world!" I said with excitement. I heard him
released a beautiful chuckle with amusement.
"Sure! We can watch her."
I almost shout with happiness but then I remembered something that made it
disappeared. "That's tomorrow. Wala nang ticket..." I said pouting.
Umurong siya at inakbayan ako sabay halik sa aking noo. I placed my head down when
I felt my cheeks turned hot and red.
He really liked to do that to me. Lalo na ung gesture na paghawak sa bewang ko at

paghalik sa noo.
"I can make anything possible for you, cuddle cakes. I promised to give everything
you want and if you want to go to that concert, considered it done."
Nag-angat ako ng tingin.
My heart beat frantically while looking at his chocolate eyes. Nakadungaw siya
sa'kin at mariin ang tingin. Isang tingin na nagsasabing kaya niyang gawin ang
sinabi niya.
"Really?" I whispered.
His eyes showed amusement as the end of his lips turned upward. "In one
condition..."
Bahagya akong lumayo. "What is it?"
"Give me my welcome kiss before I tell you."
"Welcome home, Osias!" Mabilis ko siyang ginawaran ng yakap at halik sa pisngi.

"Can we go?"
Imbes na matuwa siya sa ginawa ko ay nawala ang kanyang ngiti. His lips formed a
thin line and he looked dismayed.
Bakit? Mali ba ang ginawa ko?
"That's not how it is."
The next thing I knew was his lips tightly pressed on mine. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko
sa gulat. My hands gripped his shoulder and arm to a push but he just gripped my
nape and wrapped his arm on my waist to keep us close and closer.
Parang sinilaban ng kuryente ang aking katawan. Mula sa aking labi paikot sa aking
kabuuan.
His touch was firm saying that he wouldn't let go. When his lips moved, I lost it.
My heart was ramming against my chest. My body responded with his every touch. My
mind went blank.
Na-realized ko kung bakit. That's because I couldn't avoid him. Even if I wanted to
forget him, my heart and body would still remember.
It would still be him.
I still loved him.
Sumuko ako at nagpatangay. For that moment, I just wanted to be his wife.
I closed my eyes and savored the moment. Niyakap ko ang kanyang leeg bago
maramdaman ang pagngiti niya sa pagitan ng aming halikan.
Tumugon ako. I opened my mouth for him and he gladly took me. Isang napakagandang
ungol ang kumawala sa kanya ng tapatan ko ang intensidad nito.
He laid me flat on the sofa without breaking the kiss. His hands started to roam my
body. I gasped and moan for him.
Madali akong hiningal sa ginawa namin. Mabilis parin akong mawalan ng hangin dahil
napre-pressure ang muscles sa lalamunan ko. Para akong umakyat ng bundok gaya ng
ginagawa namin nila daddy. Mukang naramdaman niyang hindi pa sanay ang katawan ko
dahil pinutol niya ang halik.
Gusto kong magprotesta sa ginawa niya pero napangiti ako nang pinugpog niya ng mga
halik ang aking mukha pababa sa panga at leeg.
I was panting hard when he buried his face on my neck. He gave it a kiss before
settling there for awhile.
Natahimik kami saglit. My fingers tangled through his hair as my other hand held
his shoulder.
"B-Blakey..." I felt him stiffened and hugged my tighter.
Napalunok ako nang tinukod niya ang palad sa magkabilang gilid ng ulo ko. Dumausdos
ang hawak ko papunta sa kanyang dibdib. I noticed how his muscles tensed to my
touch. Napakagat ako sa labi.
He was looking intently at me. His jaw clenching like he was holding himself back.
"I'm home, my wife." Aniya sa mababang boses.
Unti unting sumilay ang ngiti sa aking mga labi. He was just looking at me, waiting
for my reply with anticipation.
"Welcome home, my husband."
Ilang luha ang kumawala sa'kin. Naramdaman ko silang unti unting umaagos malapit sa
aking tenga. Blakey's eyes glisten with unshed tears. He dipped down and kissed me
again.
Naalala ko ang sinabi ni mommy. Itong mga bagay na 'to ang dapat iniiyakan. Things
that kept you looking forward for tomorrow.
Things that could give you pure happiness.
That's your tomorrow.

TEASER
"All of those people who made me suffer when I'm good! All of those people who
aren't worth of my tears! All of those people who break me when I'm fragile! All of
them! I will make sure that they will cry and suffer like what I did. I'll make
sure to give them what they deserve. I will make sure that they won't feel even a
single regret for what they did to me. No! That's not enough. When I'm done with
them, I'll make sure that they'll realized that good and hope don't exist because
I'm done with you all! I will kill the goodness in me. There would be no tomorrow.
Sinagad niyo ko! I will let everyone meet the new me at uumpisahan ko sa'yo at sa
hayop mong ina!"
ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
۰ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ۰ߑ
Nabisita niyo na ba ang mga yumaong mahal sa buhay?

Chapter 40.1
"Blakey, let's get up." Ilang beses ko nang ginigising si Osiaۢ_I meant Blakey, pero
ayaw niyang bumangon.
He pulled me closer and nuzzled his face deep on my neck. I gasped, feeling the
whip of breath with his actions.
"Just a couple of minutes, wife." Ang mababa at paos niyang boses ay nagpakiliti
sa'kin.
I couldn't the smile the crept to my face as he groaned and set his position above
me. He hummed in pleasure as I caressed his hair, his face still on my neck. His
bare back muscles flexed that I found so sexy and hot.
Humigpit ang kapit niyang nasa bewang ko. It tickles me a bit making me giggle. He
found it amusing with his chuckle and begun tickling me.
Tawa ako ng tawa. "S-stop! Ahaha." I shrieked and moved like a worm bathe in salt.
My breathing became rugged and hard. Napansin niya 'yon kaya tumigil siya at
inangat ang sarili para tignan ang kalagayan ko. I was smiling widely while his
eyes checked me with worry.
"Are you okay, cuddle cakes? How's your breathing?"
Lumawak ang ngiti ko habang hinihingal. "I'm okay..."

Sinagot niya ko ng ngiti bago dampian ng halik ang aking labi. "Last night was
awesome, wife."
Tumango ako bilang pagsang-ayon. We didn't do anything pass sleeping together but
what made it awesome was we slept together knowing we still love each other.
"I love you, my wife."
"I love you too, my husband."
Isang huling halik ang kinintil ko sa kanyang mga labi na nagpalaki ng kanyang
ngiti. Nakita tuloy ang mga mapuputi niyang ngipin.
His eyes shine with pure happiness and I was so sure that I was too showing the
same.
I loved him so much. Hindi ko alam kung ga'no kalaki ang kasiyahan na nararamdaman
ko dahil parang pataas ito ng pataas, parami ng parami.
I admit that I was so scared at loving him again. The truth was, I was scared of
being in pain again. Na maulit muli ang nangyari. Na iwan niya muli akong mag-isa.
Alam kong malaki ang posibilidad na mangyari 'yon. Hindi lang naman kami ang
involve. Andyan na ang mag-ina niya pero isa lang alam ko, hinding hindi ko siya
iiwan.
I would take the risk of loving him. Maybe I could share him with them. I knew it
would hurt me but I just didn't want to lose him. I loved him so much and also,
sharing was a good thing, right?
I remember mommy and daddy saying that always.
We had a lot of things on our schedule today. Maaga kaming umalis. This day would
be so much fun!
We went to the mall first to eat and buy some clothes before waiting at the
Rosalind Park for the time of the concert.
I was so excited for the concert. Though guest lang si Lindsay sa concert, siya
parin ang inaabangan ko.
Sa Sidney Myer Music Bowl gaganapin ang concert. There's so many people there when
we got there. The crowd was massive. It got me uncomfortable but I was so excited
that I couldn't felt that before the concert started.
The whole place was supposed to be darker as the sun rested but it didn't happen.
The bright lights were there and I started jumping and clapping with excitement
when they moved. Strobe lights were turned on then there was smoke.
People started shouting. I started shouting.
Hindi pa nga nagsisimula ang concert pero nagwawala na ang mga tao. Naghihiyawan at
nagsisigawan. It was wild and noisy.
Ngayon lang ako nakapunta sa ganito.
It was crazy!
Not crazy madness but crazy fun!
Medyo mainit ang lugar lalo na't nagsisisiksikan na kami dito. Buti nalang naka
pale red sando ako at naka ipit ang buhok. I was also wearing jeans shorts and
ankled boots.
Sa palagay ko naiinitan si Blakey kasi tinanggal niya ung coat niya. His body
covered with his white dress shirt was now exposed.
Napalabi ako at tumingin sa paligid. Tsk! Dapat di nalang niya tinanggal. Nakita ko
ung mga babae sa likod niya nakatingin sa kanya.
Nakakainis.
Naramdaman ko ang kamay ni Blakey na humawak sa bewang ko.
"Stay close to me, Lee." Bulong niya sa gitna ng ingay bago ako bigyan ng halik sa
pisngi.
I looked up to him and nodded.
Concert ito ng Pentatonix with guest starring The Owl City and Lindsey Stirling.
"What's up, Melbourne!!!!"
Biglang umugong ang paligid at lalong nagsiksikan ang mga tao nang biglang may
magsalita.
Nasa may bandang unahan kami. Chairs were discarded as people pushed each other
near the stage. Natatangay kami sa daloy. Blakey made sure that I wouldn't get
hurt.
His broad body securing me with his arms wrapped around me from behind.
The group was introduced after awhile. Parang bawat minuto ay lumalakas ang tilian.
Nang lumabas na ang lima ay tumodo na ang ingay.
"Are you ready to get this part started!"
I gasped. "Oh my gosh! His voice is beautiful!"
Tumili ako. Ang ganda ng boses nung lalaking may bigote at balbas. It was a clean
cut and I think his long hair that was brushed behind was perfect for him.
Pinakilala niya ang grupo. Avi pala ang pangalan niya. I giggled. I'll always
remember that...
"Avi!!! Whooh!" I kept on shouting. Natigil lang ako nang maramdaman ko ang pagyuko
ni Blakey para bumulong.
"Don't shout his name, cuddle cakes. Don't make me jealous or I'll arrange your own
concert on our bed with you only shouting my name."
Kunot noo akong ngumuso sa kanya. I didn't get it at first but when he glided his
hand over my tummy up just below my breast in a sensual way, shocks of sparks made
my body hot.
I bit my lip and just shouted with the crowd. Gusto kong mag-focus sa concert.
Concert muna, Leanna. Concert!
Nasa pangatlong kanta na sila and I couldn't help but be amazed with them.
I couldn't believe it! Wala ba talagang banda o kung anong instrumental support sa
kanila? Ang galing grabe.
Acapela ang estilo ng musika nila pero kala mo hindi kasi ang galing ni Avis pati
na ung Kevin.
I wanted to shout Avis' name but I was doubting because of the man behind me.
Tiningala ko siya na mariin din ang tingin sa harap. There was a faint smile on his
lips and I knew he was enjoying it too.
It was a nice view of him and I found myself reaching to kiss his jaw.
Nagulat siya sa ginawa ko. Bahagyang nakaawang ang mga labi niya habang nakadungaw
sa'kin.
I smiled and kissed him again but this time on the lips. Inulit ko ulit at sa
pagkakataong ito ay sinalubong niya 'yon ng sa kanya habang nakangiti.
My tummy was in knots and my heart was beating faster. It was off beat with the
loud, massive speakers and made it's own wild beat.
Nang bumitaw kami at nagtama ang paningin, naging bingi ako sa paligid. I was more
focused on how his brown eyes darkened with something strong.
"Later, cuddle cakes... Your favorite violist is here." Agad na kuminang ang aking
mga mata at napatingin sa stag.
"Let's give it up for Lindsey Stirling!"
She's here! Oh my God! She's here! Humiyaw ako ng pagkalakas lakas.
"Don't shout too much, Lee. Don't pressure your throat." Bilin ni Blakey na hinid
ko pinakinggan. Nang lumabas siya ay hindi ko na napigilan.
Ramdam kong namamaos na 'ko pero hindi ko pinansin. I stood on my toes and jumped a
couple of time.
I couldn't see here. Nakakainis. Bakit gano'n? Kanina medyo malapit kami sa unahan
tapos biglang nasa gitna na kami? Gano'n ba kami natangay ng mga tao.
Nagsimula na silang kumanta pero hirap parin akong makita sila.
"There are too many people, Blakey. I can't see!" I tugged his arm still looking at
the stage.
"Wait. I have an idea. Hold onto me, Okay?"
Napatili ako nang bigla niya kong binuhat. I ended up sitting on his shoulder and
holding his head for support and he, on the other hand, has his arm wrapped around
my legs.
Nataranta ako saglit dahil feeling ko mahuhulog ako pero nang mapanatag ako ay
tumingin na ko sa stage.
Tuwang tuwa ako dahil kitang kita ko na ang lahat. Blakey started walking closer
between those people. Narinig ko pa ang ilan na sumisita sa'min pero sa stage lang
ako nakatingin.
Ang ganda ng view ko tapos marahan niya kong binaba. Umangal ako noong una pero
napansin kong nasa unahan na kami. As in nasa unahan. Do'n sa may bakal na harang
bago ang stage.
Naramdaman ko ang pagod na paghinga ni Blakey pero napatuon ako sa stage.
Nagkaroon ng solo performance si Lindsey Stirling pagkatapos. Song of the caged

bird ang tinugtog niya.
I rested my arm on the metal railing then my cheek over it as the music of the
violin calmed me. People started raising their hand left and right while holding
their phone. The lights coming from it were like countless of bright stars.
It was amazing.
"I hope you're having fun, wife..." Bulong ni Blakey bago kintilan ng halik ang
aking ulo. Ang kamay niya ay nakatukod din sa rehas sa malapit sa magkabilang gilid
ng ulo ko.
Kaya hindi ako nangangamba na masiksik ng napakaraming tao dahil alam kong secured
ako tabi ni Blakey. Nakita ko ang relo niya at inikot iyon para makita ko ang oras.
It's past 10pm. Kaya pala inaantok na 'ko.
Madaling araw na nang makauwi kami. Buti nalang Sunday ngayon. Like before,
tinulungan ako ni Blakey na mag-ayos ng sarili.
Medyo nagising ako dahil sa naglinis kami ng katawan at ngayon, yakap ko ang mga
stuffed toys ko habang sinusuklayan niya 'ko.
Iniisip ko parin ang concert kanina. Sobrang tuwa ko kasi first time kong makapunta
sa concert tapos kay Lindsey Stirling pa ung napuntahan ko.
Nawala nga lang ung coat ni Blakey kanina nung buhat niya ko pero parang wala lang
sa kanya.
Nakahiga at patulog na kami pero nawala ang antok ko. I could sense that Blakey was
also wide awake.
"Are you happy, wife?" I hummed in response. Humarap ako sa kanya at humalik.
"Thank you, my husband..." Hinaplos haplos ko ang pinsgi niya. I traced the
stubbles on his face and watched the muscles around it tensed. He took my hand and
kissed it before looking at me so tenderly.
"I'm so glad that you gave me a second chance, Lee. I was lost without you.
Everything crushed down and I was broken. I couldn't even see my tomorrow without
you. Ayoko nang maranasan muli 'yon. Please don't leave me again...I'll do
everything to keep you beside me. I love you, my wife and it's not because you make
me happy and complete. Not because everything makes sense with you nor because you
make all of me uneasy but special at the same time. But because I just love you
with every single part of me... I love you, Leanna Jeanne Alcazar. Now, tomorrow
and forever..."
"B-Blakey..."
"Promise me, Lee. Promise me that you won't ever leave me. I-I just...I can't do it
for the second time. I'll die if I lose you again, Lee."
Para akong maluluha dahil sa sinabi niya. Parang bigung bigo ang kanyang mga mata
niya at umaasa sa aking sasabihin.
Was this how much he loved me? Was I the one who broke him because I left? Was I
the one at fault?
Ang sabi ni daddy ay nagdusa din daw siya. Totoo rin namang naging biktima lang
siya dahil sa panloloko ni Jackie. Nasaktan din ako dahil sa pagkawala ng anak ko
at sa mga nakita noon pero mali ba 'yon? Dapat pala hindi ako basta basta umalis.
Dapat binalikan ko siya.
Ako ang may kasalanan kung bakit puno ng lungkot ang mga mata niya ngayon at alam
kong pareho lang kaming nasaktan. Ang mali ko lang ay nag-focus ako sa sakit na
nararamdaman ko hindi gaya niya na nakulong sa lungkot. Nag move on ako. I turned
to be happy because of daddy and Terrence but how about him. He was alone.
The main bottom was, I left him and I was at fault.
Isa lang ang dapat kong gawin. I promised not to leave him whatever happened. I
promised to share the pain. Siya nalang lagi ang umiintindi sa'kin. Hindi na dapat
gano'n. I was a grown up now. I was not the naive girl anymore.
I was already a wife and I needed to take the responsibility of loving this man, of
loving my husband.
I kissed him hard all of the sudden. I wanted to show him how my I loved him and to
give him assurance that I would not leave him again.
It didn't take seconds for him to respond. Our kiss became hot and hard. I
eventually opened my mouth for him. He took me like he was eagerly searching for
something.
Napakainit ng pakiramdman ko. He went on top of me. His hands roaming around my
body made my senses hiked up with heat.
Nang magsawa kami sa labi ng isa't isa ay bumaba ang halik niya sa leeg ko. I
gasped when he sucked me there and bit me a little. It didn't hurt tho. As a matter
of fact, it felt the opposite.
Unti unti niyang tinanggal ang butones ng pajama shirt ko. Nagmamadali siya at nang
mainip siya ay pinuwersa niya nalang.
I gasped in shock.
"I'm sorry. I'll buy you plenty of this tomorrow." He said fast and kissed me on my
now exposed breast.
Napasinghap akong muli sa sarap at napaugol ang kanyang pangalan. He was treating
the other like his own personal stress ball and the other like a baby's treat.
Nang maramdaman ko ang kamay niya sa pagitan ng mga hita ko, nagwala na ang
pakiramdam ko. I was still wearing my pajama pants but it didn't stop the pleasure
from coming.
I felt uncomfortable with my clothes still in me but it didn't last long when
Blakey took them all off of me before doing the same with his.
"God! I miss you, my wife. So much..." hindi na ko nakasagot nang yumukod siya para
bigyan ako ng mapusok ng halik.
I hugged him tight as his hands continued exploring me.
His kisses left me breathing hard before going down the valley of my breast down to
my lower tummy.
"B-Blakey..." I moaned when I saw him between my legs.
Nakikiliti ako sa hininga niya kaya hinawakan ko ang ulo niya para sana ilayo. His
hands held each of my hands as our fingers automatically found their place between
them.
"Ahhhh..." malakas ang aking ungol ang halikan niya ko do'n.
He pleasured and worshiped my lady part like it was his own flavored ice cream.
Hindi ko na alam kung sa'n ibabaling ang ulo ko. Para akong nababaliw sa bawat
galaw ng kanyang dila.
The spasm started. Nagsimula ito sa puson ko papunta sa mga binti ko bago umikot sa
aking buong katawan.
He made a long stroke that made me scream his name. Patindi ng patindi ang simula
ng panginginig ko at nang malapit ko nang marating ang tuktok ay tumigil siya.
Pumupungay ang mga mata ko pero hindi nakaligtas sa paningin ko ang pagtaas ng
isang gilig ng kanyang mga labi.
He licked his lips and smiled. I did the same before pressing his lips on my
forehead.
"I love you..." His eyes darkened with my words.
"I love you more, wife. Tomorrow and forever."
"Tomorrow and forever." I confirmed.
Tumigas ang panga niya at nanindig ang balahibo ko sa tindi ng kanyang tingin.
"Here I go..."
In one shift move, he entered me fully.
----
"My husband!"
I shouted and ran to my husband whose waiting at the end of the stairs. Hugging him
tight, I giggled as he chuckled.
"You're excited to go, huh?"
Bahagya akong tumalon para halikan ang kanyang labi.

"Yes!"
Ngayong araw kasi ay uuwi na kami. Makikita ko na si daddy at si Terrence after

three months of staying here. Pati na din sina Doggie, Softie at ang mga dollies
ko.
May maganda din akong balita kay daddy. Nanalo kami sa kaso at dahil sa nangyari,
magbabayad samin ang Lassy's Fine Jewelries pati nadin ung mga organizers na
business partners nila.
Millions 'yon at siguradong matutuwa si daddy nito! At syempre, dahil 'yan sa

napakagaling kong asawa.
The best husband in the world.
Sa byahe ay walang palya si Blakey na alamin ang kailangan ko. Water, foods, extra
pillow... lahat na ata ready siyang ibigay sa'kin.
Hapon na noong nakauwi kami. Ang balak namin ay sunduin si daddy tapos sabay kaming
mag-dinner kaya makakapag pahinga pa 'ko ng saglit.
Hinatid niya 'ko sa bahay. Hindi na siya pumasok dahil ipapaayos niya daw ang
kwarto namin do'n sa bahay nila ni Mommy Betty. Pati ung mga gamit ko dala niya na.
Yes! Lilipat ako after naming sabihin kay daddy ang plano namin. May gumugulo lang
sa'kin.
Ano kayang nangyari sa bahay namin dati? Bakit hindi kami do'n titira?
Hayaan mo na nga! I'll ask Blakey later.
Umakyat na ko sa taas matapos batiin ang mga kasambahay. Napahinto ako sa pasilyo
nang may nakitang lumabas sa kwarto ni Penelope.
Gano'n nalang ang gulat ko ng mapagtantong si Terrence 'yon. Mukha itong

nagmamadali at di mapakali. Magulo ang buhok at balisa.
"Terrence?" He stopped and was shocked to see me.
"L-Leanna..." bulong nito.
"Babe, wait up!" Natanggal ang tingin ko at bumagsak sa babaeng nasa likuran niya.
"What's happening here?"
Parang do'n niya lang ako nakita. "Oh, you're back."
Kumunot ang noo ko sa kanyang sinabi. Pati sa ngiti niyang mapanuya.
Penelope held his arm. Hindi ko maiwasang mapatingin do'n. Terrence slowly pried
her hands off when he noticed my look.
"Ter..."
"I need to go, Leanna. Let's talk later." Mabilis niyang sabi bago ako lagpasan
para umalis.
Naiwan kaming dalawa sa hallway.

"Welcome back, sis."
Nakangiti niyang sabi bago bumalik sa kanyang kwarto.

Chapter 40.2
I LOOKED down at the unfinished slice of cake he ordered for me. I really loved
cake but, really but I couldn't seem to find the interest to finish this.
A chocolate cake with chocolate filling, drowning in chocolate icing.
It was heavenly addicting but what could I do?
"Leanna?"
Nag-angat ulit ako ng tingin sa mga taong nakaupo sa harapan ko. "Don't you like
the cake?" dagdag niya pa.
I forced a smile at him and looked at the person sitting beside him. She gave me
her sweetest smile that everyone loved and adored. A smile that made every guy want
her.
"It's not that..." I answered Terrence.
"Baby doll..." he sighed. I think he caught what I meant as I see the concern laced
on his voice.
"I know it's because of me, right?" Napakagat ako ng labi at tinignan muli ang
aking pagkain. Sumubo ako ng konti at ramdam ko ang mga tingin nila na lalong
nagpa-ilang sa'kin.
Penelope suddenly held my hand. The softness of it was made to calm everyone who
got in contact to it but it made me stiffed.
"I know you're uncomfortable with me, Leanna but I'm really serious about this and
I want to start by saying that I'm very sorry. I'm sorry for all the things that I
did. I was mean and heartless and I know that saying this is not enough pero umaasa
akong mapatawad mo. Kahit hindi nalang para sa'kin. Even only for Terrence,
please..."
Her voice was so sincere and apologetic.
Kanina sa school ay niyaya ako ni Terrence na kumain sa labas bago umuwi. Of course
I said yes even though I was planning to visit Blakey at his office. Pinilit niya
ko at nagpapilit naman ako. I remember how shock I was when we entered the coffee
shop. Malamang katawa tawa.
She was already there and Terrence walked right to her while holding my hand.
I asked him what's happening and he told me that Penelope wanted to say something.
Now you know why I really felt uncomfortable with all of this.
Because she's saying sorry for all the things she did to me. All the abuse, the
mean words, all the things that she took from me, the pains, sadness and everything
else. Pero 'pag na-aalala ko lahat ng mga 'yon ay mas lalo akong nahihirapan.
Marahan kong inalis ang aking kamay at nilagay sa aking kandungan. She looked at
Terrence and the latter looked at her with concern and sadness. He draped his arm
over her shoulder and gave a supporting look.
Another shocker? They're back together.
Sinong hindi maiilang sa sitwasyong ito?
"I know that it's hard to take it all in, little sis but I really want to do this
since we're little kids but..." Hindi niya na naituloy ang sinasabi. Nangilid ang
mga luha niya sa kanyang mga mata.
"I just loved my m-mother so much. I did everything to please her even if it's
doing things I didn't like."
Umismid ako. "Don't like? It felt like you were enjoying it."
"Because I needed to pretend. Hindi ko gusto ang mga 'yon at todo ang nararamdaman
kong guilt dahil do'n. That's why I asked Terrence to take care and help you since
the very start."
"What are you saying?" Kunot noo akong tumingin kay Terrence para sa kasagutang
hinihingi ko.
She gave him a go nod after wiping her unshed tears. Terrence looked at me
seriously. The kind of look that's saying that I needed to listen well and I did.
"When I saw and talked to you the first time, I confronted Penelope about it. She
asked me to help you with everything you need. Tinanong ko siya kung bakit hindi
nalang niya sabihin sa daddy niyo pero alam naming pareho kung anong kahahantungan
non. Nagdalawang isip ako noong una dahil ayokong madamay sa gulo ng pamilya niyo
pero wala eh. I took the risk. Natalo ng pagmamahal ko sa kanya ang takot kaya
eventually, pumayag na 'ko."
"Does that mean that you only helped me because she told you to?"
"Of course not!" Mabilis niyang tanggi at tinukod ang dalawang braso sa lamesa para
bahagyang dumukwang sa'kin.
"I helped you because I wanted to. I saw a person that was worth and needed
helping. You didn't deserve to be treated that way and guilt would kill me thinking
that every day you're experiencing that."
"Please believe us, Leanna. We did everything we can to help you."
Nabaling ang isip ko sa mga nangyari nang gabing tila gumuho ang buhay ko. hindi ko
maiwasang magalit.
"Everything? Then why did you let your mother do that to me? All my life, I was
scorned because of her! I lost my baby because of her!"
They both fell silent with my outburst. Nangilid na rin ang aking mga luha dahil sa
ala-ala at sa emosyon. I didn't deserve to be treated that way. My baby deserved to
live but because of them, it was stripped off my baby. That's unfair!
"You k-know?"
"Of course I know, Terrence. Simula palang..." marahas kong pinunasan ang aking
luha.
"I didn't k-know that she would do that..."

"You're lying!"
"It's t-true." Nanginig ang boses niya kasabay ng pagtulo ng kanyang mga luha. "H-
hindi ko alam..."
She looked pitiful with her look. Puro luha at hindi inda na kumalat ang make up sa
kanyang mga mata. Ibang iba sa Penelope na tinitingala ng nakakarami. This woman in
front of me was very vulnerable and weak. Dinamayan agad siya ni Terrence at ngayon
ay patuloy siyang umiiyak sa kanyang mga bisig. Hindi ko maiwasang makaramdam ng
awa.
"Remember what I told you, baby doll?" Malambing na baling sa'kin ni Terrence.
"'Wag mong hayaang manatili sa puso mo ang galit at poot. That's why Penelope is
asking for your forgiveness so she can have peace in her. You are a strong woman,
Leanna and strong woman knows how to forgive and move on. Pakiusap, patawarin mo na
siya. Ako na ang nakikiusap."
"Forgiving is a gift to others. Moving on is a gift to yourself." I whispered my

thoughts.
Pareho silang umaasang patawarin ko ang isa sa mga taong dahilan kung bakit nasira
ang halos kalahati ng buhay ko.
Hanggang sa makarating ako sa building ng opisina ni Blakey ay iniisip ko parin ang

nangyari kanina. Should I forgive and move on?
Hindi gano'n kadali pero alam kong doon ako matatahimik. Do'n ko mararamdaman ang
kapayapaan sa puso ko. Terrence was right. It's hard to live with anger, jealousy
and hard feelings to anyone.
The best example was Anita. She has lived with all those negative emotions that
made her did those bad things to me.
Forgive, let go and move on.
I didn't give them my answers yet. I said that I would think about it first
however, Penelope wanted to ask forgiveness also to daddy and Blakey that's why
they invited us for a dinner. Nasabi ko na kay daddy 'yon at pumayag naman siya
kaya nandito ako para sunduin si Blakey.
"Good afternoon, ma'am. Nasa loob po si atty."
"Thanks, Jessie."
Kumatok muna ako ng tatlong beses bago pumasok sa loob. Ang kunot ng noo niya
pagkatingin sa dumating ay agad na nawala nang makitang ako ang dumating.
He stood up, smiling before walking to meet me halfway. Agad niya 'kong siniil ng
halik. I tilted my head on the side to give us more access to each other. Biglang
nawala ang iniisip ko kanina at natuon ako sa aking asawang nanggigigil sa aking
mga labi.
"I missed you..."
I giggled."We just saw each other this morning."
"And that's a very long time." I grinned before giving my lips a peck. "What time
is the dinner again?"
"Seven..." He hummed and looked at his watch.
"An hour and a half. We still have plenty of time."
"Para sa'n?" Tanong ko. Biglang sumilay ay ang ngiti sa kanya bago nito ako iwan
para dumungaw sa pinto.
I heard him told Jessie not to let anyone inside. He locked the door after. "Let's
go."
"Where?"
Kinagat niya ang kanyang labi at kusa namang dumapo ang tingin ko do'n. Hinubad
niya nag backpack ko. Napatili ako nang buhatin niya ko at binagsak sa sofa.
Mabilis niya kong kinubabawan.
Nakaawang lamang ang aking mga labi habang tinitignan siyang isa isang tinatanggal
ang mga butones ng aking blouse.
"Your most awaited concert starring your husband. Moan loud, wife. This room's
sound proof." He said low that made me shivered in excitement.
Once he got it all undone, he planted a kiss on the space between my breasts.
Marahan akong mapabuga ng hangin noong oras na dumikit ang labi niya sa aking
balat.
Unti unting bumibilis ang tibok ng aking puso habang umaangat ang halik niya sa
aking leeg hanggang dumikit muli ito sa aking mga labi.
At first, the kiss was simple. It was like what I read in books.
Fireworks bursted in my stomach as our lips slowly moved in sync. Kasabay no'n ay
ang kakaibang kuryente na bumalot sa aking katawan at pag-init ng aking pakiramdam.
Hindi ito ang first kiss ko pero lahat ng 'yon ay parang bago. The feelings he
always gives me are getting more and move new and exciting each time.
Ang lamig ng kwarto ay walang nagawa sa init na pinagsaluhan namin. Our naked
bodies made everything warm until it turned into blazing hot.
Nang pumasok ang kanyang kabuuan sa'kin ay parang tinakasan na ko ng katinuan.

Especially when he moved as his tongue played with the beads of my breast.
He pressed himself deeper against me. We are both moaning with his every thrusts.
"B-Bla-ahhh." Ni hindi ko magawang bumuo ng kahit anong salita dahil sa kanyang

ginagawa.
His thrusts got even faster and harder making my moans louder.
"Shït...s-shït! Lee. Ugh!" Sabay naming tinatawag ang pangalan ng isa't isa.
I could feel his back muscles tightened as my nails dig on it like a life line
while he was gripping the sheets of the sofa on each of my sides.
It was then when I had my final release, out of my many he had his first.
I shout his name the loudest but his mouth attacking mine cut it off.
"That was wonderful, cuddle cakes. You are fvcking amazing." He huskily said.
I just smiled tiredly at him and tried to catch my breath.
Nakaiglip ata ako dahil pagdilat ko ay suot ko na ang aking mga damit. My wonderful
husband was already sitting near my feet while reading on some papers.
Nang maramdaman niyang nagising ako ay bumaling agad siya sa'kin. Ngumiti bago
humalik.
"Fifteen minutes left, wife. We need to go."
Tumango ako at humikab bago tumayo. He fixed my hair first by combing it with his
fingers before picking up his satchel.
Siya na ang nagdala ng bag ko at nakaakbay sa'kin na lumabas.
Sa totoo lang ay inaantok pa ko pero hindi mawala ang ngiti sa aking mukha.
Jesse was not there anymore. Mabuti nalang dahil hindi ko alam kung pa'no ko
itatago ang hiya.
Kami lang ang nasa elevator. Hinalikan niya ang aking ulunan bago pa tuluyang
sumara ang pinto. Binalik niya ang braso sa pagkaka-akbay sa'kin.
The silence was very comfortable until the door opened and came in the person I
didn't want to see.
She was as stunning as I remembered with her office get-up. Mukang pauwi na rin
ito.
Huminto pa 'to saglit ng makita kami. I looked up at Blakey to see that his smile
vanished.
"Atty..." Bati ni Jackie sa kanya.
Tumango lamang ang aking asawa na parang isang empleyado lamang ito. She looked at
me after before entering.
Naramdaman ko ang marahang pagpisil ni Blakey sa aking braso bago halikan muli ang
aking sintido.
It was completely silent throughout the ride. Parang ang bagal ng oras. Bakit ba
kasi nasa 20th floor pa si Blakey?
Hindi na namin pinag-usapan ang tungkol sa kanya kahit na sa sasakyan at kahit

noong makarating kami sa restaurant.
"Daddy!" Paglabas ko ng sasakyan ay saktong dumating ang sasakyan ni daddy.
I was waving my hand kahit nagpa-park palang ang sasakyan ni daddy. Nilingon ko
saglit si Blakey na nag-aabot ng susi sa staff.
"Darling..." I saw my daddy mouthed the moment he got off the car.
Sumunod and kanyang mga body guards. I missed him so much. Lagpas isang linggo na
ko nang makalipat sa bahay ni Mommy Betty kaya miss na miss ko na siya.
Hindi na ko makapaghintay kaya tatakbuhin ko na sana nang may marinig akong malakas
na putok. Nasundan pa ito ng isa.
I felt someone grabbed me from the back and pulled me down.
"Keep down." Blakey said. Nakadapa kami sa sahig habang kabang kaba ako.
I heard shouting and Blakey's hard curses. Kabadong kabado ako dahil hindi ko alam
ang nangyayari.
"Daddy? Daddy! Ahhhh!" Napasigaw ako nang makita ko si daddy na nakahiga habang
pinalilibutan ng mga body guards niya.
They were covering him but it didn't escape my eyes the blood that was all over
him.
"Ang daddy ko! Daddy!"
"No, Lee. Stay down!" Pilit akong kumakawala sa hawak niya.
Walang tigil ang sigaw ko sa pagtawag kay daddy kasama ng aking mga luha. Daddy was
unconscious while his bodyguards had their guns out. Pinoprotektahan niya na di
nila nagawa kanina.
"No! Ang daddy ko!!" I kept on fighting until I escaped from his hold.
Nang makatayo ako ay dire diretso akong tumakbo papunta kay daddy.
Loud shots followed and when I looked back, Blakey had me dragging back.
"Let me go! Ang daddy ko!" Iyak ako ng iyak habang pumapalag at inaabot ko ang
direksyon ni daddy.
"No! Daddy!"
He was getting farther and farther and my heart kept breaking. Kinuha siya ng mga
bodyguards at sinakay sa kotse.
I know sabaw 'to. Sorry na... ߘ
Please vote and comment.

Chapter 41
My wild cries earlier turned into sniffles as I lay beside my daddy on the hospital
bed. I was curved into his side while holding his arm into a firm grip, afraid to
let him go.
Naramdaman kong may marahang humahaplos sa aking buhok. It was comforting but my
sadness with what happened to my dad was very overwhelming that it discarded
everything except for it.
"Lee, c'mon..." I only whined and shrugged off his hand on my shoulder.
Ayokong bumitaw. Pakiramdam ko ay mawawala siya kapag bumitiw ako. He's the most
important thing in my life and I didn't want to let go.
"Dad's recovery would take longer if you sleep there." Blakey said.
I looked up and my frown deepened seeing his eyes closed with those tubes attached
all over his body. My heart ached seeing him like this while the only thing that's
saying he's alive was the constant beeping from the machine.
I hate this feeling. I hate this scene.
Binitawan ko ang braso ni daddy pero yumuko ako at pumikit lang matapos. My body
was drained from crying and wailing from the restaurant until just recently. All of
this made me unable to do anything expect to cry. Hanggang ngayon nga ay maya't
maya and pagtulo ng aking mga luha kapag naalala ko ang mga nangyari.
When we arrived in the hospital, dad was already in the operating room. He was shot
twice near the chest and shoulder.
Pinagpyestahan ng mga reporters ang buong hospital dahil sa'min. Blakey and dad's
men secured the building as well as the hospital guards.
My head was also pounding, signaling a headache that's about to come. Hindi ko rin
ito pinansin. I felt myself being lifted, away from the bed and my dad. I gripped
Blakey's shirt before looking back at my dad's sleeping form.
Isiniskis ko ang sarili ko sa kanyang dibdib at nag-isip kung bakit nangyari ito sa
aking ama. My dad was the best dad in the world. He's a good guy so why would
anyone hurt him like this?
Humigpit ang kapit ko sa kanyang damit habang narramdaman ang bawat hakbang niya.
Alam ko kung sino ang gumawa nito. Nakita ko. hindi ako pwedeng magkamali kahit na
madilim ang paligid.
I sniffled until I felt the soft texture of the sofa. Nag-aalalang mukha ang nakita
ko nang iminulat ko ang aking mga mata. He was crouched down in front of the sofa
to level with me. He gave me a sad smile, almost like as if he knew what I was
feeling but nobody totally got it.
Nobody.
"Everything's going to be alright, Lee. I'll make sure to find the person who did
this to dad."
I wanna say something. I wanna tell him that I know but I was too tired to do that.
Suminghot muli ako at nagbabadyang umiyak. Blakey moved quickly to soothe me.
Kissing my forehead and saying things that were meant to calm me.
"D-Dad..."
"Stop crying, cuddle cakes. The doctor said he'll recover soon. Don't worry, okay?"
He again kissed my forehead while moving his hand up and down my hair. I closed my
eyes, accepting the soothing feeling that he's words and movements were giving me.
My hair fell through the gaps of his fingers as he moved them to hold the side of
my head while his thumb drew circles against my cheek.
I sighed in contentment to release some stress and pain. Kahit papa'no ay guminhawa
ang pakiramdam ko sa kanyang mga haplos at boses.
I was really so thankful that he's with me. I didn't know what to do now that daddy
was here in the hospital. I just wished that he'd recover soon like what Blakey
said.
"Just sleep for now, Lee then you'll eat, okay? Ilang oras ka nang hindi kumakain."
I gave him a simple hum in response as sleep temporarily pulled me away from pain.
Bigla akong nagising nang marinig ang pagsarado ng pinto kasunod ng tunog ng yapak
na nagmumula sa mga takong.
Agad akong napadilat at napabalikwas ng bangon.
"Get away from my daddy!"
I felt everything spin the moment I stood up. Napahawak ako sa ulo at sa sofa.
Where's Blakey?
"Are you okaԢ_" si Terrence.
"Get away from him!" Asik ko habang nakatingin kay Penelope na nakatayo sa tabi ng
aking ama. Kasama niya si Terrence sa kanyang tabi.
Tinakbo ko ang distansya namin ay hinila siya sa kanyang kamay.
"Leanna, what are you doing? She's here to visit her father."
"No! He's not her father. He's only my dad!"
"I'm not here for trouble-Ouch!"
"Liar!"
Pilit kong hinihil ang kanyang brado palayo kay daddy. Hawak din ni Terrence ang
brasong hawak ko para hindi siya masakyan.
So he's on her side now!
My heels were on the ground, pushing where I was getting the force of pulling her.
I will not let anyone who wants to hurt him go near. I will protect my daddy like
he did to me. Ako naman ang gagawa no'n para sa kanya.
I groaned as I pull and pull but Terrence was supporting her so I didn't have much.
Para kaming nagta-tug of war.
"Huminahon ka, Leanna."
Malakas ang ginawang paghila ni Terrence kaya napabitaw at napahiyaw ako. My butt
landed on the tiled floor. Hindi ko ininda ang sakit dahil mas nangibabaw ang galit
na nararamdaman ko.
I looked up to see Penelope in his arms with tears. Ang galing talaga niyang
artista! Ang kapal ng mukha! Kala mo kung sinong nasaktan.
Nang makita ako ni Terrence ay bumitaw siya agad para lapitan ako pero agad akong
tumayo. I glared at him and I saw the pain of my rejection flashed in his eyes.
"Babe-" Hearing her voice flared the anger in me.
Sinugod ko siya at agad na hinila ang buhok. Pareho kaming sumisigaw. I, in anger
and she in pain. Isang braso ang umikot sa bewang ko na pilit akong hinihila palayo
sa babaeng patuloy na umiinda sa sakit.
She was holding my upper arm, her mails digging on my skin while trying to pry it
away but my grip was stronger.
Napuno nang ingay ang buong silid. "Get out! Get out!"
Bumitaw si Terrence sa'kin at lumipiat sa kanya kaya nakakuha ako ng tyempo para
mas lalong hilain palayo ang makapal niyang buhok. That didn't last long though
because more firmer grip were on my waist.
"Lee, stop it. Let her go." I heard Blakey's voice pero hindi ako nagpatinag.
Gusto kong lumabas siya dito at lumayo kay daddy. "No! She'll hurt my dad!"
I heard him cursed before prying my fingers one by one. Nang bumitaw ako ay hindi
parin ako tumigil. I kept reaching for her. Crying that I wouldn't let her get near
him. Pumalag ako at pilit na kumakawala sa mahigpit ng kapit hanggang sa umangat
ang katawan ko sa ere.
Inilayo ako sa umiiyak na si Penelope habang yakap ni Terrence. Hindi nawala ang
talas ng tingin ko sa kanilang dalawa ngunit nang hawakan ni Blakey ang magkabilang
pisngi ko ay naalis ito do'n.
"Calm down, Lee. This disturbs your father's recovery. Hindi ito makakabuti sa
kanya."
"No! She's the one who hurt my daddy. I saw it!" Pahayag ko habang tinuro siya ng
may pag-aakusa.
"What do you mean, Lee? SInong nakita mo?"
Pinatingin niya muli ako sa kanya. "Her mother. I saw Anita there. She was standing
on the other side..."
Nagsimulang tumulo ang aking mga luha pero hindi nawala ng tapang sa aking mga
tingin.
"Are you sure it's her?" Seryosong tanong niya.
"It was dark but-"
"That's not true. Hindi magagawa ni mommy 'yon, Osias."
Umiling ako at lumapit. Blakey's hand already held my waist. "Don't lie. That's why
you invited us for dinner, right? You planned to kill dad together with your
devious mother!"
"Alam kong malaki ang kasalanan ni mom but she would never do that!" Tumaas na rin
ang boses niya para ipagtanggol ang kanyang walang kwentang ina.
Mas lalo lang akong nakaeamdam ng galit. Why would she defend a murderer unless
she's one too!
Silang dalawa ni Anita ang may gawa nito kay daddy. They will pay!
Parang lahat ng mga galit na dapat noon ko pa maramdaman ay nagdatingan

para mas mailabas.
I didn't care what they did to me. I was scorned and broken. The hell to that! I
could move on. Kaya kong palagpasin ang mga 'yon pero hindi dito. They hurt the
only person who ever loved me, the only person who supported and protected me from
harm.
This is where I draw the line. This is where it all stops!
Hindi na ko pwedeng mag move on dito. Hindi pwedeng magpatawad.
Lahat sila magbabayad.
"Ikaw at ang iyong ina! All of those people who made me suffer when I'm good! All
of those people who aren't worth of my tears! All of those people who break me when
I'm fragile! All of them! I will make sure that they will cry and suffer like what
I did. I'll make sure to give them what they deserve. I will make sure that they
won't feel even a single regret for what they did to me. No! That's not enough.
When I'm done with them, I'll make sure that they'll realized that good and hope
don't exist because I'm done with you all! I will kill the goodness in me. There
would be no tomorrow. Sinagad niyo ko! I will let everyone meet the new me at
uumpisahan ko sa'yo at sa hayop mong ina!"
Nangigigil ang tingin at galit ko sa babaeng 'to na walang ginawa kung hindi
magpaawa at umiyak.
Such a good actress.
Isang malungkot na tingin ang binigay ni Terrence sakin bago sila umalis ng
artistang 'yon.
I took a glance of my sleeping father. Pilit akong pinapakalma ni Blakey habang

magkatabi kami sa sofa at magkayakap. Nagamot narin niya ang mga galos ko sa braso
dahil sa kanina. I didn't need someone to calm me. I didn't have time to be calm
because I was busy thinking of what to do.
Ilang beses niya kong tinanong kung talaga bang nakita ko si Anita at ilang beses
ko na rin sinabi. I really saw her. Naka simpleng dress lang siya pero alam kong
siya 'yon kahit madilim pa.
I knew how my heart pounded, scared when she's near. Laging gano'n ang pakiramdam
ko pag nasa malapit siya noon pero pinapangako ko, hindi na ko matatakot. I will
fight back. I will make them pay.
Umaga na pero hindi ako ganong makatulog. Lumabas si Blakey ng may tumawag sa
kanya. Lumapit ako kay daddy at bumulong.
"I promise dad. I promise..." I kissed the top of his head before moving away,
wiping my tears.
Lumabas ako. Agad akong sumakay sa elevator papunta sa parking lot. Binuksan ko ang
sasakyan ay pinatakbo pauwi ng bahay ni daddy.
Buti nalang ay iniwan ni Blakey ung susi sa lamesa do'n sa hospital.
"Mhela!" Agad na lumapit sa'kin si Mhela kasama ang ilang mga kasambahay. Sinabi ko
sa kanila ang inutos ko.
Bagama't may pagtataka ay ginawa rin nila at ngayon ay nasa bakuran ako at nasa
harapan ng napakaraming basura.
"Burn them all." Utos ko kay Mang Natoy na hardinero namin.
"Sigurado po ba kayo, señorita?"

Umigting ang panga ko at hinarap siya. "Pakisunog po lahat."
He sighed tiredly before pouring each eight drums some gasoline. He light up a
match after and I watched as each 'til all of Penelope's things bursted into
flames.
I felt something weird in my stomach. Parang nagi-guilty ako pero kapag na-iisip ko
ang lahat ng ginawa nila sa'min napapalitan ako ng galit.
Hindi ako pwedeng maging mahina. Kailangan kong maging palaban para sa'min ni
daddy.
"Ahhhh! What are you doing!?"
"Please clean it up after, Mang Natoy."
Naikuyom ko ang aking mga kamay sa pagdating ni Penelope. Umalis ako at pumasok sa
bahay.
The smoke from the burning material chocked me as well as her desperation to save
her remaining things.
Too bad wala na siyang makukuha.
"What did you do to my things?"
Rinig kong sigaw niya bago hatakin ako sa braso. Napaharap ako sa kanya. She was
tall because of her heels but I was not intimidated.
I smirked and pulled away my arm.
"Sumusobra ka na, Leanna. Don't act like a brat to me. Hindi ka uubra!"
Humigpit ang kapit niya kaya hindi ako nakawala. Sa inis ko ay nasampal ko siya.
Nabitawan niya 'ko dahil do'n.
Humarap siya sa'kin nang hawak ang pisngi. Ganyan nga. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam
dahil feeling ko nakaganti ako kahit papano.
But it was not enough.
"You bitch!" Sigaw niya.
Nakaramdam ako ng hapdi ng sampalin niya 'ko. She didn't stop there because she
grabbed my hair while striking me with her slaps. Ang ilang kasambahay ay nakita
kong dumating pero walang may lakas ng loob na umawat.
Sinalag ko ang mga ito habang papaatras. She gave me a couple but when I had the
chance, I grabbed her hand.
Now it's my turn.
I slapped and strike her until she stepped back. Natapilok siya pero dahil sa taas
ng kanyang takong, mabilis siyang bumagsak.
Nanlilisik ang tingin ko sa kanya. Ganon din siya sa'kin. We were both panting hard
too ang the only difference was that I was looking down at her while she did the
opposite. Ganyan nga. Sisiguraduhin kong titingalain niya 'ko.
"Dad will-"
"Bagay lang sa'yo yan! Hindi mo siya ama dahil isa kang Flores. A cheap surname. My
dad gave you home when you have nothing. Now, you'll leave our mansion with also
nothing!"
Tumawa ako ng may pangungutya. "Babawiin ko lahat ng binigay namin sa'yo. Tandaan
mo yan. Hindi pa 'ko tapos."
Sunud sunod na ang paghihiganti ni Leanna.
Sino kaya sa tingin niyo ang susunod?

Chapter 42
Lumipas ang mga araw at ganoon parin ang kalagayan ni daddy. The doctor said he's
fine but why was my father still unconscious?
Sabi niya normal lang 'yon dahil sa mga tama niya pero hindi sigurado ang eksaktong
paggising niya dahil na din sa mga gamot. Doktor ba talaga siya? I didn't trust
him.
I asked Blakey to assign another doctor but he said that we already have the best.
The best doctor sucks!
After 2 weeks, the good news was he woke up already pero paminsan minsan lang. Mas
madalas parin na tulog siya. Ang hinihiling ko lang ay sana tuluyan na siyang
gumaling.
I was holding my father's hand when Mommy Betty came to visit. Nag-usap kami saglit
tungkol sa nangyari. She consoled me and I was really thankful that I had her and
Blakey with me on all of this.
Hindi na muna ako pumasok sa eskwela. I didn't want to have any distraction until
this was finished. Pumayag si Blakey. He said he wanted to make sure that I was
safe kaya ngayon ay sakin nakabantay ang mga bodyguards ni daddy at nag-hire pa
siya ng maraming tagabantay kay daddy dito sa ospital.
Investigation was also there to find whoever did this. I knew the exact person who
did this. Ilang beses ko nang sinabi 'yon kay Blakey pero kailangan daw ng
ibedensya.
That was really disappointing of him. Really! Parang ayaw niyang manilawala sa'kin
lalo pa't nalaman naming nakatakas si Anita sa kulungan months ago. Ang mas
nakakainis ay tinago niya sa'kin 'yon. Alam niya!
Nalaman niya rin ang ginawa ko kay Penelope at hindi niya nagustuhan 'yon. He was
disappointed, alright. Inaasahan ko naman 'yon dahil alam kong hindi niya ko
maiintindihan. Gaya nga ng sinabi ko, walang makakaintindi sa'kin kung hindi ang
sarili ko lang.
Hindi naman sa kanila nangyari 'yon kaya anong alam nila?
"Are you okay, Leanna. Come here and eat with me."
Nilingon ko si Mommy Betty na nag-aayos ng pagkain sa lamesa. Marahan akong tumango
bago balikan ng tingin si daddy. He woke earlier but just a little while, like 10
minutes and then he fell asleep. Simula no'n ay hindi ko na binitawan ang kamay
niya o umalis man lang sa tabi niya.
Habang kumakain kami ay hindi ko napigilang magtanong kung nasa'n si Blakey.
"He's checking both your companies. Don't worry, babalik din siya mamaya." Mommy
Betty gave me an assuring smile before we continue eating and dropping some talks
in between.
"I'm proud of you, Leanna. I got to say, you surprise me. Hindi ko inaakalang kaya
mong lumaban kay Penelope."
Namula ang mukha ko sa hiya at nag-iwas ng tingin bago bumulong ng pasasalamat.
"That's it, Leanna. Learn how to fight specially in this situation. Hindi pwedeng
ikaw lagi ang pinagtatanggol but always remember, don't lose yourself in the
battle, okay?"
"Lost myself?" I mumbled the question.
She placed down her utensils and sighed before looking seriously at me. "Leanna, I
know that this situation made a change in you. It's a good thing that this made you
have your confidence and protectiveness show but don't embrace too much of it,
okay? Don't let hatred eat you alive."
I scoffed. Though I couldn't fully understand her, I knew that what she said was
true.
I was mad.
"I just want those people who did this to my dad pay."
"Me too, Leanna. That's why you need to trust Osias on this. He's doing his best to
get this sort out." Inabot niya ang aking kamay at pinisil. Tumuton do'n ang aking
tingin.
"Be strong Leanna. Trust your husband. You're not alone in this."
It was afternoon when Mommy Betty needed to leave for a meeting. The words she told
me rung in my head for the mean time before it was long forgotten.
Tinitext ko si Blakey kung nasa'n na siya kanina pa pero hindi siya nagre-reply. I
was composing another message to him when a knock on the door made me set it aside.
Marahang bumukas ang pinto at sumilip si Marcel. One of my dad's bodyguards.
"May bisita po kayo, señorita."
"Who?"
"Terrence..."
Napakunot ang noo ko. Ilang linggo ko nang hindi siya nakikita. He was texting me
but I was ignoring it all. Pati narin mga missed calls niya. Hindi rin siya
makalapit o makabisita dito kasi sigurado akong kasama niya si Penelope.
I sighed. "Let him in." Maybe it's time to talk to him.

I placed my cellphone on the table and stood up, fixing my hair in a ponytail.
Pumasok siyang lumilibot sa paligid. Tumigil sya sa aking ama bago bumagsak ang
tingin sa akin. He gave me a faint.
"Baby doll..."
Pilit akong ngumiti. "Hi."
"How are you?" He asked just to kill the awkwardness.
"G-Good..." I motioned the sofa. "Upo ka muna."
It was really awkward. Hindi ko alam kung pa'no siya pakikitunguhan pero hindi ko
itatagong na-miss ko talaga siya. I really missed this person who took care of me
and my friend. No! He's more than that. He's the brother I never had.
Hindi siya umupo at nakatingin lang sa'kin. Nabasa ko ang mga mata niyang puno ng
pangungulila. I went stiff when he hugged me all of the sudden.
Nakaramdaman ako ng pagkailang ng bahagya pero napabuga ako ng mahina nang ako'y
maging kumportable. My hands slowly moved to hug his waist, squeezing it tightly.
Gustohin ko mang magalit sa kanya ay hindi ko kaya. He's so kind and gentle with me
and I couldn't pay it with hatred.
"I missed you, baby doll..." Hindi ko mapigilang mapaiyak nang halikan niya ang
aking ulo.
"I m-missed my Terry bear." He chuckled and placed another kiss on my head.
We were hugging sideways while sitting on the sofa. Tahimik lang kami pero
napakagaan ng pakiramdam namin sa isa't isa. Yung nakakailang na pakiramdam ay
bigla nalang nawala na parang bula. His arm around my shoulders while mine around
his waist. I smiled when I heard him sigh in contentment.
"I missed this." I said truthfully.
"What happened to us, baby doll?" Bakas ang lungkot sa kanyang boses.
"I was..." I mumbled. "I was mad."
"I know, baby doll and it's normal. Ang mga tao, nakakagawa sila ng mga bagay na
hindi nila inaasahan para lamang protektahan ang mga mahal nila sa buhay na
nahihirapan o nasa gipit na sitwasyon. I totally understand you."
Humiwalay ako sa kanya at tumingala. "That's why you lie again to protect her?"
Umigting ang panga niya at nag-iwas ng tingin bago bumulong ng oo.
"Why do you keep doing that? Why are you lying to me for her? She's a bad per-"
"Penelope is not that bad. If you just try and get to know her-"
Agad akong napatayo. "I already did, Terrence and look where it got me and my dad?
He's on a hospital bed!"
Hindi ko napigilan ang pagtaas ng aking boses habang nakaturo sa aking amang
mahimbing parin sa pagkakatulog.
"I was battered, unloved, scorned! And now daddy was shot! Ano pang gusto mo,
Terrence? Ang tuluyan kaming mamatay bago kayo maniwala."
"No! Don't say that!" Tumayo ito at hinawakan ang magkabilan kong balikat.
"Nothing's bad gonna happen to you or your father, okay? Hindi ko hahayaan 'yon."
"Pero bakit mo ko pinagtraydoran? Niloko mo kaming lahat para ipagtanggol siya!

Asking you to help me? Bullshït! She was always smiling while hurting me. She has
done it a million times with or without her mother around. Does her actions mean
she's concerned? Sumagot ka!"
"Like what Isaid, Leanna. People do some crazy stuff when they see their love ones
in trouble. Yes, baby doll, I love Penelope. I still do. I'm sorry. I-I... I don't
want to see her suffering. I'm so sorry, baby doll."
Umiling iling ako at lumayo kasabay ng pagpatak ng aking mga luha. Alam ko naming
ginawa niya 'yon para sa kanya. Naiintindihan ko pero mas masakit pala kapag sa
mismong bibig niya nanggaling. The feeling of being betrayed has doubled a multiple
times.
"Traitor." I whispered.
"No, Leanna. I-I"
"You betrayed me and my dad. You're a traitor. "
"Listen to me, Leanna!" Nagulat ako dahil sa boses niya.
He moved his head to look at my dad quick before scratching the side of his head in
frustration. Halata ang pagpipigil niya na tumaas ang kanyang boses.
He let out a breath. Ako naman ay nakatingin lamang sa kanya. Ngayon niya lang
ginamit ang tonong 'yon sa'kin. Naninibago ako at nagulat.
"Get out!"
"This is not just about you, Leanna. Hindi lang ikaw ang nahihirapan. Ako rin
naman. Naiipit ako sa pagitan ng dalawang taong mahalaga sa'kin. It's hard. Hindi
ko na alam ang gagawin ko para lang 'wag masaktan ang isa sa inyo. You are both
important to me. Penelope and you hold a deep part of my heart, baby doll."
"But unfortunately, mas mahalaga siya sa'yo because you wouldn't stand on your
ground and lie kahit na halatang halata ang kasinungalingan niyo!"
"Baby doll, keep it do-"
"Get out!"
"L-Leanna..." my father's faint voice made me snap my direction on him.
Agad akong nakaramdam ng guilt at sinermunan ang sarili kung bakit hindi ko mapigil
ang aking boses.
I rushed to his side, held his hand and asked what he's feeling. I glared at
Terrence, seeing him on the other side of the bed.
"D-Darling."
"No. Don't talk, daddy. Just rest."

"I'll call the doctor." Terrence pressed the red button and talked to someone.
Wala pang ilang minuto ay dumating na ang doktor at mga nurse. Wala akong magawa
kung hindi ang tumingin mula sa malayo habang tinitignan nila ang kalagayan niya.
Panay ang kagat ko sa labi habang naghihintay. Kung hindi lang dahil kay Terrence
na hinahaplos ang braso ko bilang suporta, hindi ko mapipigilan ang emosyon ko.
"Don Leandro just needs a complete bed rest for a week for continuous recovery.
He'll be fine, Ms. San Roman."
Matapos magsalita ng doktor ay agad kong sinunggaban ng yakap si dad. He groaned

but smiled faintly while I moved away a bit na parang takot siyang hawakan ulit.
"Take it slow, Ms. San Roman." Humingi ako ng paumanhin ng pagsabihan ako ng
doktor.
I can still hear my dad's faint groaning. Nakonsensya naman ako bigla. Masayang
masaya ako ng araw na 'yon dahil hindi na natulog si dad buong maghapon.
Nang maggabi ay pinauwi niya ko kay Terrence pero ayaw ko. Terrence needed to go
after. He has this look that he didn't want to leave but a single text from his
girlfriend said otherwise.
That girl. I hate her.
Naunang matulog sa'kin si daddy. I know he's doing better but seeing him resting
and asleep made me nervous. Kinakabahan ako pag gano'n.
Pa'no kung biglang hindi siya magising. Natatakot ako.
I always see my dad gentle, kind but strong and firm. Not like this. Helpless and
weak.
Hindi ko mapapatawad si Anita sa ginawa niya sa daddy ko. Pati yang si Penelope.
Silang dalawa ang may kasalanan na kahit na sinasabi si Terrence na walang
kasalanan ito, hindi ako maniniwala.
She already made too much lies that made it hard to believe.
I'm not sure if Blakey arrived that night. Nakatulog ako sa sofa at paggising ko ay
nakakumot na ko. Si Blakey kaya 'yon?
Wala akong text o tawag na natanggap. Kailangan ko siyang makausap. Kailangang

umusad ang kaso ni daddy.
I was having second thoughts to leave my dad my I really need to talk with Blakey
so I decided to visit him at his office.
Two of my bodyguards followed me to do their job. Sa totoo lang ayoko dahil masama
ang loob ko sa kanila.
They was supposed to protect daddy that night but they failed their job.
One of them drove us to Blakey's office building. Pag-akyat ko ay may lunch meeting
daw siya ayon kay Jessie. I asked where and I thanked her for giving me that
detail.
Malapit lang naman at parang 10 mins lang ang byahe. Okay lang naman sigurong
makisalo sa kanila kasi gutom na ko. Naligo lang ako sa ospital tapos dumiretso na
dito.
Buti nalang dinalhan ako ni Manang Rosa ng mga kailangan ko.
"Dito nalang kayo." Sabi ko matapos kaming bumaba.
"Pero señorita..."
"I said stay." The coldness of my voice was very unfamiliar but I embrace it
afterwards.
Nang nakita ko silang tumango ng labag sa loob nila ay umalis na ko at dumiretso sa

loob ng restaurant.
Nilibot ko ang aking paningin para hanapin siya. It was easy though.
Sino ba naman kasi ang uupo sa pang-anim na taong mesa tapos magkatabi lang silang
dalawa.
Stupidly pathetic, right?
Naningkit ang paningin ko sa dalawa. They're back's facing me but I can clearly see
and hear that they're enjoying their time together while eating.
What the hell?
Nakuyom ko ang aking mga palad. Hindi ko alam kung sa'n ako nakakuha ng lakas ng
loob para maglakad ng mabilis papunta sa kanila.
"So this is a lunch meeting?"
Natigil ang pagtawa ni Jackie at napatingin sa'kin. Gano'n din ang magaling kong
asawa na kita ang pagkagulat at pagtataka.
Bakit? Hindi ba niya naisip na pupunta ko dito?
"Lee? What are you doing here?"
"I was hungry and wanted to eat lunch with you but surprise! You're with your
whore."
Kumunot ang noo niya at napaismid ako.
"You're wrong, Lee." Tumayo siya at hinawakan ang kamay ko. "C'mon. Let's go."
"Didn't you hear me?" I said and pulled my hand. "I'm hungry. But anyways, seeing
you laughing with her made me lose my appetite. Now, I wanna puke."
"Ano bang nangyayari, sa'yo, cuddle cakes?" He softly asked.
I can feel the stares of everyone. Tinignan ko sila at tama nga ako. Nakatingin ang
ilang tao sa paligid sa'min.
My gaze landed on Jackie who had her head down like a forgotten puppy before taking
her bag and stood up. I felt like I wanna just do something to hurt her. Like I
wanna drag her by her hair and slap her until her face and my hands are swollen
Then I remembered something.

"I think I should go, Osias."
"Just a quick question." Alangan siyang tumingin sa'kin. "You're his daughter
right?"
Napangisi ako dahil sa parehong nagtatanong ang kanilang tingin.
"Of my father-in-law's killer?"

Chapter 43
RODRIGO ALCAZAR's death was unexpected. A car accident.
Isang araw nang papunta siya sa kanyang opisina ay biglang nabangga ang sinasakyan
niya sa highway. Apat na sasakyan ang nagkarambola dahil do'n.
Lulan din ng sasakyan si Jacinto Gardiola, ang kanyang driver at ama ni Jackie.
Mommy Betty was devastated especially when the result of the investigation arrived.
Jacinto was under the influence of drugs while driving and with that, Mommy Betty
sent him to jail. Ilang beses daw nagmakaawa ang asawa at anak ni Jacinto sa kanya
pero hindi niya pinagbigyan.
Sending his driver to jail was the only thing that can make Mommy Betty felt
justice. Buo na ang kanyang desisyon kahit na lumuhod pa ang ginang sa harap niya.
Ayon sa nabasa kong file na binigay si daddy, Jacinto died inside the cell due to
heart attack. Ang mama naman ni Jackie na si Rosanna ay na-depress.
Kasalukuyan namang nag-aaral si Jackie no'n kaya si Ricky na kapatid niya ang nag-
alaga sa mama nila na patuloy ang pagbaksak ng katawan.
What I can only remember was Daddy Ricardo's funeral but these details, I only knew
them based on what I read on daddy's file.
Sigurado akong tama ang mga 'yon dahil sa laki ng pagkagulat sa mukha ni Jackie.
Gusto kong matawa dahil para siyang kriminal na nahuli sa akto.
"How... H-how did you know t-that?" Nagkibit balikat lang ako at ngumiti.
"You're Manong Asi's daughter?"
Otomatikong nanubig ang mga mata niya sa tanong ni Blakey. Nag-iwas siya ng tingin
at pinunasan ang luha.
Maarte. Nakakainis siya.
"Yes she is, Blakey and I bet she really plan to get closer to you like how she
planned on drugging you to get pregnant."
"What!?" Malutong na mura ang lumabas kay Blakey.
I should be surprised dahil minsan ko lang siya marinig na ganyan pero mas
nagugulat ako sa sarili ko.
I was supposed to feel bad especially seeing someone crying because of what I did
but I didn't know what's happening to me.
Imbes na makunsensy ako ay parang natutuwa ako sa aking nakikita. Bakit gano'n?
Well, I didn't care anymore. This new feeling was quite... fascinating.
It's like I have this new strength inside me. A feeling that I knew was not right
but I wanted to have it, to embrace it.
I like this.
"That's not t-true, Osi-" I slapped her hand, reaching out to Blakey.
"You really are a good liar. Sinabi mo rin sa'kin dati na pinag-uusapan niyo ang
annulment namin ng asawa ko. It's also a lie, right?" Hindi siya nagsalita.
Lumingon ako kay Blakey na nakatingin sa kanya. His face hard and dark. Nakakuyom
narin ang mga kamay nito.
I really want to see how he lashed out to her. Would he slap her? Hurt her? Say
mean words?
"Let's go, Lee."
I froze, shocked. "What? Why?" Hinila niya ang kamay ko paalis.
I looked back at Jackie who was silently crying as he dragged me out.
Gano'n nalang 'yon? Why would he let go of her like that!?
I groaned and try to pry my hand off him but of course he's stronger so I couldn't.
Nang makarating kami sa parking lot ay umayos ng tayo ang dalawang body guards ko
na naghihintay sa'min.
"Stop!" Hinila ko ng malakas ang kamay ko nang huminto siya at nilingon ako.
"Get in the car, Lee." Aniya sa malamig na boses. Hindi ko matansya ang emosyon
niya dahil blangko ang tingin sa'kin.
I scoffed. "That's it? Didn't you hear the things I said earlier? She's lying. She
drugged you, tricked you and you did nothing! What's that supposed to mean?"
"This is not the right time to talk about this. Get in the car." Sinubukan niyang
kunin ang kamay ko pero iniwas ko lang. I let a humorless laugh and glared at him.
"You are all the same. Lahat kayo." Bumuga siya ng hininga at napahilamos ang kamay
sa mukha. "You and Terrence. You defend people who do nothing but lie. Mas
kinakampihan niyo sila kesa kasin at kay daddy."
Lumambot ang tingin niya sa sinabi ko. "That's not true. Of course I'm mad. God, I
wanna break all the things I see there but I have to get you out of there. People
were looking at us. Okay lang kung ako pero ayokong husgahan ka nila do'n sa loob."
"I don't care!" Sigaw ko at kinagat ang ibabang labi para pigilan ang galit.
This is freaking unbelievable! Kinakampihan niya ang babaeng 'yon! And what if kung
pinagtitinginan ako ng tao? Wala akong pakialam do'n dahil mas masakit ang ginawa
niya at pinaramdam niya sa'kin.
"Osias, let me explain." I whipped my head and my body to face Jackie's direction.
She was clutching the strap of her bag like a lifeline.
Tignan mo nga naman. Ang kapal talaga ng mukha niya. Sumunod pa siya sa'min.
"Leave us, Jackie. Go home."
Blakey went beside me and held my arm. Maybe trying to prevent the harm from her,
which was me. How lovely.
"Alam ko dapat sinabi ko na sa'yo noon pa. Believe me, Osias. Wala akong intensyong
masama. I was planning to tell you yesterday when we met but-"
"Yesterday." Umiling iling ako at galit na lumingin sa magaling kong asawa. "So
kasama mo rin siya kahapon habang ako, andon sa ospital at nag-aalala kung nakakain
at kung makakauwi ka. I bet you don't know that dad's awake now, do you?"
Tumaas ang galit ko sa nakitang gulat na dumaan sa kanya. "I'm sorry. I'll explain
what happened on the way. I need to talk to dad." Lumayo ako sa kanya. Nabitawan
niya ko.
"Explain? What are you going to explain? Na kasama mo ang malanding babae na ito
kahapon at tinuloy niyo ang paglalandihan hanggang ngayon. And now, it's obvious
that you're defending her. You choose a liar over me just like what Terrence did! I
trusted you both and you're breaking that trust. Why, Blakey? Because she's your
mistress or is it because you have a bastard with her?" I said pointing my finger
to his mistress.
"Leanna, stop!" He shouted. "Everything you said is ridiculous! Iba ako so don't
compare me to him."
"Tama ka. Iba ka dahil mas masakit dito." I pointed my chest. "Ridiculous? That's
what you think?" My tears started falling with my pained voice. He looked guilty
and wanted to touch me but I stepped back.
"Is it ridiculous that I felt betrayed by my own husband. Is it ridiculous that it

pains me to see you happy while I cried because of everything that's happening? Ang
pinakamasakit pa ay yung nakikita ko kayong masaya, may anak at isang buong pamilya
habang ako hindi ko man lang napagluksa ang anak ko? Is that what you call
ridiculous!?" Sigaw ko.
"It's not what I meant, Lee. Please calm down. Just let me explain and everything
will be alright. I promise." Bawat hakbang niya ay umaatras ako.
Suminghot ako at umiling ng mabilis. "Everything will not be alright! Can you bring
back my baby, huh?"
Tumingala ako nang makita ang malungkot niyang tingin habang umilling. "I c-
can't..."
"Of course you can't. But you know what will make me feel fair? If you're child
with her die. I wish he dies."
His eyes shocked and sad as I heard someone gasped behind me. My eyes became
waterfall of tears. I covered my face and sobbed hard until I felt his muscular
arms hugged me. The warmth of his hug covered me with comfort and support.
It was supposed to take the pain away but the memories of them laughing with the
result of his infidelity flashed like a broken CD, replaying on my mind.
Tinulak ko siya pero hindi siya nagpatinag. Mas lalo lang humigpit ang kapit ng mga
braso niya sa'kin.
"Don't cry, Lee. It hurts me seeing you cry, please."
Sa huli ay sumuko na 'ko. nakayuko lang ako habang pinupunasan niya ang aking mga
luha. He kissed my forehead. My eyes automatically closed before looking somewhere
except for him.
Marahan niyang hinila ang kamay ko papunta ng sasakyan. Sumakay kami sa sasakyan
niya.
Tahimik sa loob ng sasakyan. The tension and heaviness in the air was obvious as he
drove silently to I didn't know where.
Nakatingin lang ako sa labas ng bintana. Wala na kong pakialam sa mga nangyayari.
Mabigat at puno ng sakit ang nararamdaman ko sa aking dibdib. Alam kong masakit ang
mga sinabi ko pero gano'n talaga ang aking nararamdaman.
I should not feel sorry and I wouldn't say sorry for the things I said.
Huminto ang sasakyan sa tahimik na lugar. Narinig ko ang pagbukas at pagsara ng

pinto sa pwesto niya. Not a minute later, my side opened. I kept quiet as he
unbuckled my seatbelt. Siya rin ang nagkabit niyan kanina dahil naubos ang lakas
ko. Pinunasan niyang muli ang bakas ng luha sa aking pisngi bago ako alalayan
palabas.
Nakaakbay siya sa'kin at hawak ang kamay habang naglalakad kami. Hindi ko alam kung
suporta ba 'yon dahil sa panghihina ko o dahil ayaw niya kong lumayo at umalis ng
basta basta.
Maraming puno at tahimik. Ang sarap ng simoy ng hangin sa katawan ko kahit medyo
mainit ang sikat ng araw sa hapon.
I'm still hungry hut I couldn't voice it out. I was too pained to care.
I sniffed and leaned my head on his chest. Parang sasakit 'ata ang ulo ko. I closed
my eyes and took a shaky breath.
I felt him looked down and kissed my head. "We're here."
Binuksan ko ang aking mga mata. Kanina pa kami nakahinto. Ang akala ko nagpanhinga
lang kami.
Nilibot ko ang aking paningin para pagmasdan ang paligid. Kumunot ang noo ko.
A cemetery.
He let me go and crouched down. Tinignan ko siyang hinahaplos haplos ang isang
lapidang may nakalagay nang palumpon ng mga bulaklak.
I walked beside him.
Jupiter Leigh Alcazar
I gasped lightly and covered my mouth in shock. Tiningala niya ko at malungkot na

ngumiti bago abutin ang aking kamay.
"Say hi to Leigh, Lee..." Umatras ako.
God, I'm so stupid! Para akong nabuhusan ng malamig na tubig. Yung mga pinagsasabi
ko kanina. Hindi ko naman inakala na...
"I'm sorry..." naiiyak kong sabi.
Tumayo siya ay hinaplos ang magkabila kong braso. "I know you are. Don't worry."
"H-How?"
He sighed. "Because we didn't pay attention."
Ang lungkot sa kanyang boses ay damang dama ko. Parang may pumisil sa puso ko dahil
sa sakit. Sobra ang pagsising nararamdaman ko ngayon. Ang sakit.
Nakaupo kami ngayon kaharap ang lapida ni Leigh. Ang braso niya ay nakadantay sa
aking mga balikat. He said she named her after me. I smiled to that.
"She was eight months when Jackie gave birth to her. Mahina ang baga niya kaya
pabalik balik kami sa ospital no'n. We thought that she's okay because the doctor
said her lungs were stable. Naging panatag kami."
I held his free hand and squeezed it. Inangat niya ito at hinalikan ang aking
kamay. "It was just a month after her birthday. We were too busy fighting while
Leigh was breathing hard. Huli na nang mapansin namin. She already stopped
breathing. Yesterday was her death anniversary that's why I wasn't around
yesterday. Ang tanging magagawa ko na lamang para kay Jackie ay samahan siyang
bumisita kay Leigh."
"I'm sorry, Blakey. The things I said-"
"Shh. It's fine. I'm the one who should be sorry. I never paid attention to your
feelings. Mas masakit ang sayo dahil kahit lapida wala tayong mapuntahan. I left
you alone while you were grieving but believe me, I'm always thinking about you and
our baby until now. I thought that if I make you happy and give everything you
need, you'll forget the pain. But I failed you even on that part. I'm sorry, cuddle
cakes."
"I don't know what to s-say." I buried my face deeper to his chest and whined,
covering my crying face. I felt horrible. God, ang laki ng kasalanan ko.
"You don't need to say or do anything, cuddle cakes." Sinapo niya ang aking mga
pisngi at pinatingin sa kanya.
"Just trust me. Trust that I love you so much and I won't ever leave you. Trust me
that I will do my best to ease the pain you're feeling. I'll be here just beside
you. Hahanapin ko ang nanakit kay dad at yung sinabi mong annulment, I will die
first before I sign something like that. I promise you so don't worry."
Pilit akong ngumiti at tumango. Nangningning ang kanyang mga mata sa tuwa bago ako
halikan sa labi.
His kissed gave me a promise that I would hold on 'til forever. How can I be so
lucky to have him. To have him loving me.
Pakiramdam ko wala akong naibibigay sa kanya kung hindi problema pero kahit gano'n
ay hindi niya ko iniiwan. Habang ako...
"I love you, my wife."
"I love you too, my husband." I breathe.

"We'll make our tomorrow together, okay?"
"Tomorrow and forever." He flashed a smile and I mirrored him.
We decided to go home first to eat and fixe ourselves before going to the hospital.
I already gave him the file that daddy gave. I also asked him about dad'a case and
he said that he had men searching for Anita.
"I can't believe it. She and Mark-damn! And she really is Mang Asi's daughter."
Nakita ko siyang mahigpit ang kapit niya sa folder habang nakaupo sa kama.
Kakalabas ko lang ng banyo at nakaayos na, suot ang aking bistida. He on the other
hand was already in a T-shirt and jeans.
Nang nag-angat siya ng tingin sa'kin ay nilapag niya ito sa tabi niya. He gently
pulled my hand and placed on the gap between his legs.
Niyakap niya ko sa bewang ang idinikit ang pisngi sa aking tiyan. I could feel the
tension on his muscles because of anger.
Hinaplos ko ang kanyang buhok at naramdaman ko ang pagbuntong hininga niya bago
kumalma.
"I was blaming myself because of that mistake for a long time and now I found out
what they did. I'm mad, cuddle caked."
"It's okay, Blakey. I'm also mad but we already move pass this."
"You're right." Tiningala niya kong may ngiti sa mga labi, nanatili ang yakap niya.
"How do I get so lucky for having such a wonderful woman? A woman who has a very
forgiving and understanding heart even with all the mistakes I made."
Napangiti ako at yumuko lalo para bigyan siya ng halik. "I was also thinking the
same about you. I'm so lucky to have such a husband who loves me kahit na puro
problema ang dala ko."
Kumunot ang noo niya. "You're never a trouble to me. Don't say that."
"And I'll accept and love you with all your imperfections."
Hinaplos ko ang kanyang pisngi. He bit his lips to keep his wide smile. I felt the
urge to kissed them until we're out of breath.
Napatili ako nang binuhat niya ko sa binti bago niya kami binagsak sa kama.
He looked at me straight to the eyes and I could clearly see how his eyes darken
with lust, love and desire.
"I missed my wife. I need to be inside you. I need to feel you right now." I
giggled and was to say something when he kissed me hard until we ran out of breath.
Chapter 44
I was preparing a simple meal for breakfast when warm and strong arms were wrapped
around the curve of my waist.
"You can cook?" Otomatiko ang ngiting sumilay sa akin. Sa tingin ko hindi niya
gustong malaman ang sagot ko. Parang tinanong niya lang dahil busy siya sa
pagbibigay ng munting halik sa aking leeg at balikat.
I giggled and faced him, my arms moving to embrace his neck. "Just a simple meal.
You hungry, my husband?"
"I woke up and my breakfast wasn't beside me so... yes."
His tone was so low and husky that made my cheeks heated up as well as my body.
Memories of our breathless activities replayed in my mind. I was amazing and every
time we do it again, our feelings were so unbelievable perfect like the first time.
Agad niya kong kinantilan ng halik na agad ring lumalim. I tilted my head on the
side to give more intensity to the kiss as he pulled me closer.
The sound of angry oil reminded me where we were and what I should be doing.
Humiwalay ako ay agad na hinarap ang pritong aking niluluto.
Napailing nalang ako nang makitang medyo sunog na ang paligid ng tatlong bacon
strips.
"Not here, Blakey. Later." Natatawa kong sabi. Nagsisimula na naman kasi itong
asawa ko.
"Next time, wake me up before leaving the bed, okay?"
"I didn't leave the house."
"Kahit na. I want you to be the first one I see when I wake up and I want you to be
where I can always see you."
Nailing nalang ako sa sagot niya. Nilagay ko isa isa ang mga niluto ko sa kitchen
counter. Hindi naman gano'n ka garbo ang niluto ko. Bacon, ham, hotdog at sinangag
lang.
Napilitan akong matuto no'n dahil ako lahat ang gumagawa ng gawaing bahay sa utos
ni Anita. Araw araw 'yon lalo na't laging wala si daddy no'n. Mas natuto ako dahil
tinuruan ako ni Terrence.
Hindi ko pa natatapos ang pag-aayos ng agahan namin nang hawakan niya ang bewang ko
para humarap sa kanya.
"Let's have a quick round here, cuddle cakes..." He whispered seductively before
ravishing my mouth.
Tinapik ko naman ang kamay niyang humahaplos sa hita ko at lumayo. Kumunot ang noo
niya.
"No. Kakain na tayo at masamang pinaghihintay ang pagkain."
Lalo siyang sumimangot na ikinatawa ko. Kalaunan ay ngumiti rin siya.
"You look hot when you're angry. Baka di ako ganahan sa pagkain dahil sa isip ko
ikaw ang gusto kong kainin."
"Blakey!" I gasped.
"I know. I know. Eat now. Play later." He grinned before grabbing my butt and
giving it a tight squeeze.
Namula naman ako. As much as I wanted to give him what we both want, hindi ko
pwedeng bastusin ang pagkain.
"We'll just meet up the investigator first then go to the hospital." Napaangat ang
tingin ko kay Blakey mula sa pagkain.
"How's it going?" Pinunasan niya ang gilid ng labi kong may ketchup nang nakangiti
bago sumagot.
"They're still on to what happened."
"I already told you what happened."
"Yes. I know, cuddle cakes but we still need evidence to support your statements."
Sumimangot lang ako bago tapusin ang pagkain. "Can I just stay here?"
"You don't want to check on dad?"
"I felt tired. I just want to rest for this day." I shrugged while he on the other
hand was grinning with pride like he won a lottery.
"I did give me a wild concert last night and every night before that."
Gosh! Hindi ba siya titigil na pahiyain ako sa aking sarili. Nakakainis. Hindi ko
maawat ang pamumula ng pisngi ko sa mga binibitawan niyang salita.
"You're really attractive when you're shy like that."
"Shut up. You're always saying that." He chuckled before drinking his water.
Lagi niya kasing sinasabi 'yon. Everything I do seem to be attractive for him. Buti
nalang ay hindi niya 'ko katabing kumain dahil sigurado akong kung sa'n sa'n na
naman dumapo ang mga kamay niya kagaya ng mga nakaraang araw tapos ay doon na naman
kami mauuwi.
"Alright! You can stay here but I want you fully guarded. I'll assign three of my
men to guard you."
I pouted. "That's not necessary. Hindi naman ako aalis ng bahay, eh."
"Kahit na. Until this investigation is over and done, I want to make sure you're
safe. "
I just sighed and nodded. "Okay."
After breakfast ay umalis na siya but not before carrying me to bed and then
arrange another concert as what he wanted to call that activity.
"Call me if you need anything." He lovingly said while looking down at me,
caressing my cheeks with his thumb as his other hand grabbed the back of my neck.
"I will." Tumingkayad ako at binigyan siya ng mabilis na halik.
"I'll see you later, my wife. I'll be expecting a welcome kiss from you the moment
I open that fvcking door behind me from work."
"Just go. Baka ma-late ka." I giggled and pushed him slightly. "Tell daddy I'll
love him and I'll call him later."
"And me?" Gusto kong matawa sa kunwari niyang pagtatampo. Marahan niya kong hinila
sa bewang at agad kong naramdaman ang init na galing sa kanyang katawan.
"Isn't obvious that I love my husband?"
"Show me."
Ihahatid ko lang sana siya sa labas ng bahay at magpapaalam pero natagalan kami
dahil ang pinakamamahal kong asawa ay naglalambing kaya binigay ko ang gusto niya
dahil baka hindi na siya makaalis.
I gave him a kiss that we both got carried away. Thus, the simple kiss turned into
a make out session. It would've turned all the way. Luckily, I was able to control
myself to stop us.
Mula sa bintana ay pinagmasdan ko siyang seryosong nakikipag-usap sa mga bantay ko.

He glanced at where I was and I waved him goodbye. Hindi ko tinanggal ang tingin ko
sa kanya o maging sa sasakyan niyang unti-unting nawawala.
My smile faltered. Tinignan ko ang mga bodyguards kong naglalakad papasok ng bahay.
I need to get out of this house. I need to do this on my own.
Tinakbo ko ang kwarto namin at kinuha ang isang card na tinago ko sa ilalim ng mga
nakatiklop na damit sa aparador. There was a delivery of flowers with this note
while I was waiting for Blakey.
The next flower will be for your funeral my dear step-daughter. Tell someone and
I'll pay your daddy a visit.
I crumpled the note and threw it in the trashcan. Hindi ko ito sinabi kay Blakey.
She was threatening my dad and I knew that she's serious about it.
She's going to hurt him and I won't let that. It's about time that I'll be the one
protecting my dad.
Pero ang problema, hindi ko alam kung pa'no gagawin 'yon. I have nothing beside my
husband. No power to fight her.
That's my goal. Find my own power.
And I won't be able to find it inside this house. I need to get out.
Nang magtanghalian ay nilutuan ko ang pagkain ang mga bodyguards ko. I just
finished talking to Blakey over the phone and took a look at the people who had
their heads resting on the table, knocked out.
"I'm sorry." Sabi ko sa mga bodyguards na nakatulog dahil sa pampatulog na nilagay

ko sa mga pagkain nila.
Buti nalang at wala ngayon si Mommy Betty pati ang katulong na hindi ko narin
pinapunta dito. The mansion that we once called home was already sold to its new
owner.
"I felt that that house was bad luck. Do'n lahat nawala sa'kin and I don't want to
live in that. Don't worry, I'll buy us a house for our family. Any house you want."
'Yan ang sagot sa'kin ni Blakey nang tanungin ko siya kung bakit dito na kami
nakatira ngayon. I asked him what happened to Manang Josie and the other maids and
he said that I didn't need to worry about it because he made sure to keep their
jobs but in the resort house that we own.
Maayos akong nakalabas ng bahay sakay ng aking sasakyan. I felt guilty because I
even lied to the one guarding the gates. Feeling ko ang sama sama ko pero bahala
na. Babalik din naman ako.
"Where would I go?" Kanina pa ko tanung nga tanong sa sarili ko kung sa'n ako
pupunta.
My plan is to have connections but I didn't even know where successful people go. I
could just barged in to big companies and ask for help but who.
Habang dumadaan ang oras ay mas lalo kong napagtatanto na walang kwenta ang plano
ko.
"I'm stupid! Arggg."
Inis na sabi ko pagkalabas ko ng coffee shop na pinagtambayan ko nalang.

Napatingala ako sa langit at mas lalo pa kong naasar sa sarili dahil malapit nang
mag-gabi.
I just got lucky because Blakey texted me an hour ago telling that he would be
late. Nagpapasalamat ako at hindi pa gising ang mga tagabantay ko.
Pero siguro kailangan ko nang umuwi. I just want to protect my family but this trip
is useless. I need to think of something else.
Next time, I'll think of everything thoroughly. I'll make sure that it will be
perfect and I will have what I need to make Anita pay for what she did to us.
Idadamay ko na rin si Penelope at lahat nang nanakit sa'min ni daddy. I'll promise
myself that I will do it.
Sana lang ay maintindihan ako ni Blakey. It's not that I don't trust him, hindi ko
lang kaya iasa sa kanya lahat. Isa pa. nababagalan ako sa kilos niya. How long has
it been? Almost two months and nothing had been solved.
I need to do this all my myself.
Umalis na ko sa shop at nag drive. Medyo traffic kaya inabutan na 'ko ng gabi.
I was fidgeting. Blakey will be mad. Really mad. Pinatay ko na ang phone ko dahil
malakas ang pakiramdam ko na kanina niya pa ko kinokontak.
"I had to take a shortcut." I bit my lips and turned the car left. I need to be at
home right now.
"Ugh! Nasa'n na..."
It is really fortunate for me to be stuck to traffic then get lost on the way to my
possible angry husband. Nakakainis talaga!
Sa pagtake ko ng shortcut ay naligaw pa 'ko. Nasan na ba ang daan? I need to call

my husband. He won't get mad at me, right?
Nagpark ako sa gilid ng kalsada at hinanap ang phone ko sa bag. Kinabahan ako ng
hindi ko makita.
"Where's my phone?" Patuloy ang pagkalkal ko pero wala. Oh no! Puro kamalasan
nalang ngayong araw. Bakit nangyayari 'to!
Napakapit nalang ako sa manibela at pinatong don ang ulo ko. I must have left it in
the shop.
Napatingala ako nang makita ko ang ilang mga ilaw. I saw a couple of place with too
much and different lights. Maraming nagpapasukang tao.
I know these places. It's a club or pub or something. I'm not sure which but seeing
this made me feel a little excitement.
Alam ko dyan nagpupunta minsan ang mga taong gustong magsaya pero higit sa lahat,
mga mayayamang tao.
Bumaba ako ng sasakyan. I decided to go there. I hoped to find luck.
My excitement died down and thought that coming here was a bad idea. Ano ba 'tong
lugar na 'to. Napakaraming tao.
Ang ingay at ang gulo. Hindi ko inaasahan na ganito ang makikita ko. I was like a
scared, wet duck crossing a high-way.
"Sorry." Hingi ko ng tawad sa nabangga ko. I heard him snickered. When I looked up,
he was smiling weirdly and it scared me.
Lalo na nung inangat niya ang kanyang kamay. Umatras ako at lumayo agad. Tumakbo
ako kung saan hanggang sa makita ko ang bar counter.
Sa dami ng tao ay isa lang ang nakaupo do'n. I occupied a vacant seat and sighed.
"Ah, miss..." sabi ng bar tender. "Kasi..."
"You're here to take my order, right? J-Juice nalang for now." He looked at me
weirdly. Napanguso ako. Alam ko namang alak ang oorderin dito pero hindi pa 'ko
handa.
Ihahanda ko lang ang sarili ko saglit.
"Please. I'll order properly later." I said.
"Pero-"
Kapwa kami napatingin sa lalaking tumawa sa gilid ko. He was the only one occupying
the entire area before me.
It was a bit dark but the flashing light gave me enough to see that this man was
very manly. He had muscled body than Blakey. His strong jaw with five o'clock
shadow moved when he took a straight gulp with his drink.
His lips smiled at me showing his perfect set of teeth and. It was mischievous,
playful but genuine. Everything was curved to be perfect but what entice me most
was his beautiful grey eyes.
Like his smile, it was mischievous and genuine but I saw what I was looking for.
Power.
"Be a dear to Angel and give her the drink." He said to the bartender while looking
straight at me.
"My names not Angel."

"Does it matter?"
Ako na ang nag-iwas ng tingin nang ilapag ng bar tender ang juice ko. I couldn't
seem to keep his grey eyes off my mind.
Hindi ko siya nilingon pero kumabog ng malakas ang dibdib ko nang maramdaman ko
siyang gumalaw. He crossed all three vacant chair between us and sat beside me.
"So, Angel, what brings you into this hell hole, hmm?"
His baritone voice was so deep and manly that it made me distracted. I took a sip
from my drink before shifting my seat.
"I'm sorry but my it's Leanna, not angel."
The music was so loud but for some reason, his deep laugh overpowered it around my
ears. What is happening to me?
"See, Angel? I'm really good at guessing. My dad always mocks me when it comes to
that."
Kunoy noo akong tumingin sa kanya. Didn't he hear what I said my name was?
"But anyways. It's Jay." His eyes shone brighter than the lights.
Para siyang abo pero nakita ko ang nagkukubli sa likod non. It screamed like the
name of this place.
Danger.
Chapter 45
I'm not sure what's happening to me or what am I doing. Nang umalis ako sa bahay at
napadpad dito sa bar, wala ito sa plano ko.
Heck, I don't even have a plan in the first place!
Asawa pa man din ako ng abogado. Idagdag pa na isa sa pinakasikat na businessman

ang daddy ko. Both high and wise but me, I am here talking to a guy I just met,
telling him all about my life and the worst part is, I'm comfortable telling him
all this things.
Weird. Mailap kasi ako sa ibang tao pero pagdating kay Jay, isang sabi niya lang ng
"What brings you here?" Buong aklat na ng buhay ko nakwento ko na.
My mind was shouting stranger danger but the result was opposite.
Nang mag-umpisa akong mag kwento, agad na kumunot ang noo niya.
"I can't hear you. Your voice is like a feather falling in a loud concert."
After that, he pulled my hand and we went into a room. Kami lang dalawa. Parang
mini living room na may mga magagarang gamit.
There are sofas, large screen TV, DVD player, air conditioned...a VIP room.
"Again." His voice full of authority makes me seat straight on the sofa and tell
him everything.
I am wondering why he keeps his face passive in everything I say. On the parts
where people cringe and emotional never bother him. He just listens and it's
surprising.
Nang matapos ako ay gano'n parin ang itsura niya. He was just simply drinking his
rum normally like I did not tell him a long story.
"So..." he placed down his glass. "You're not a virgin."
His statement confused me. 'Yan lang ba ang tumatak sa isip niya sa mga sinabi ko?
I cleared my throat to cover my shyness.
"I need your-"
"Leave."
"W-what?"
Scratching the side of his head, he smirked and looked at me. His grey eyes never
left mine as he leaned forward, placing his arms on each knee and clasped his hands
together.
"Of all the words created by people, I think what is the most stupidest thing."
"B-but why?"
"Because you're not a virgin." He said mater of factly. "I don't want to repeat
myself, Angel. Go or I'll send someone to throw you out."
Napauwang ang mga labi ko at napalunok. His voice changed. It was cold, scary and
sinister. Nakakatakot. He flicked his hand to shoo me.
Without second thoughts, I left the room without looking back. Iniwan ko siya
habang masayang sumisipol.
Pagsarado ng pinto ay agad akong napahawak sa aking dibdib. My breathing became

uneven and I even had to took deep breaths to calm myself.
My God! He was so scary. Naalala ko kung pa'no nagbago ang kumikinang niyang mga
mata. He looked so dangerous with those darken orbs of his.
Pano na 'yan? Sino na ang tutulong sa'kin. I know he's not just any man. I can see
how those people looked at him.
The moment I recovered, I rushed down the stairs, straight to the restroom.
"Have you seen him earlier? Gosh! He's so hot." I was watching my tired face in the
mirror when two ladies with almost no clothes entered the room, gushing about
someone.
"Kailangan maging mas maganda 'ko. I need to get his attention."
"Ako din, noh!"
"Pero di ba tayo mapapahamak?" They fixed and re-applied their make-ups.
"Why? Is it because there of the rumors that he's connected to a mafia or

something?"
"Yeah..."
I just looked at them but when the lady beside me raised her brow at me, I looked
away and moved to leave.
"Don't worry, friend. A night of sex won't get us killed.
"But too much happiness with it can."
Their laughter was all I heard after that. Pagkalabas ko ng banyo ay hindi ko
inaasahang may naghihintay sa'kin.
Jay was standing, leaning on the floor with his legs and arms crossed. The flashing
light in the dark place was giving me enough view of his smirk as he saw me.
Naglakad siya papalapit, ang mga kamay ay nasa magkabilang bulsa. Napauwang ang
aking mga labi at tanging naririnig ko ay ang lakas ng tibok ng aking puso.
He leaned down to leveled with my face making me stepped back. Kumikinang na naman
ang kanyang mga mapaglarong tingin.
"Virgin or not, I think you're still innocent enough to be tainted." Lumapad ang
ngiti niya. "I'm in."
<><><><><><>
"You drugged your guards and left home. What were you thinking, Leanna? Tell me!?"
"I'm s-sorry."
"Sorry? That's it? Dämn!"
Napakagat ako sa labi habang nakayuko at mahigpit na magkasalop ang kamay. Ganito
ang itsura ko habang nakaupo sa kama at si Blakey naman ay pabalik balik ang lakad
sa harap ko.
Palabas palang ako sa bar ay nakasalubong ko na agad siya. Madilim ang tingin niya
at nagtatangis ang panga dahil sa pagpipigil ng galit.
I didn't know how he found me. Halu halo ang nararamdaman ko. May tuwa pero mas
takot akong harapin ang galit niya.
I know that he's mad but this is beyond of what I expected. He's furious.
I became stiffed when he stopped walking. "Do you know what I feel right now,
Leanna? Do you know what I felt when they called me to tell that you're missing? I
couldn't contact you and the sun already sets and still no you. Alam mo ba, huh?"
"Sor-"
"Sorry isn't one of them so think again."
Hindi ko napigilang humikbi kasabay ng mga luha. Kinagat kong muli ang aking labi
para pigilan ang tunog ng aking pag-iyak.
I heard him sigh knelt in front of me. With so much gentle, he placed his hands
above my shivering hands.
"Leanna, please. Why did you do it? I just wanna know your reason..."
"L-lumabas lang a-ako." My voice was quivering.
"Just went out? Kung gusto mong lumabas, pwede naman. Then why didn't you tell me?
Bakit mo kinailangang patulugin ang mga bantay mo?"
Umiling nalang ako at humikbi. Hindi ko na yata kayang magsalita. I know I'm wrong
and sorry isn't gonna cut it.
I couldn't even tell him the truth. Tutulungan na 'ko ni Jay. Pumayag na siya at
siya ang susi para makaganti ako sa mga kalaban ko. Hindi pwedeng mawala ang lahat.
Tumayo siya kaya napaangat ako ng tingin. My heart pounded widely while looking at
his angry eyes as his face became dark.
"This day will never happen again. You will not leave this house until I say so. I
will double the men around you. I lost trust in you, Leanna and you will have to
gain it back."
Tinotoo niya ang kanyang sinabi. Bantay sarado ako at anim na silang bantay ko.
Mommy Betty talked to him and said that he's overreacting but he was hard as a
rock. I was even not allowed to leave the house.
It's been a week.
I asked Blakey to even just visit daddy but he said he's still recovering. The
worst part was Blakey was not even talking to me.
Nag-uusap kami pero civil lang. Like yes or no and a little bit of greeting. Ni
hindi ko nga alam kung anong oras siyang natutulog.
I always sleep and wake without him. Nagkikita lang kami tuwing agahan. I missed
him. So much that's why I waited for him last night just to talk to him. I would
have to beg just so he could forgive me but again, I fell asleep on the couch.
Nagising ako nang nasa kama na. Mag-isa.
Hindi ako nawalan ng pag-asa dahil alam kong nasa hapag siya at hinihintay akong
kumain. Nagmadali akong bumaba at tama nga ako. Ando'n siya, nakaupo at hinihintay
ako.
Nagdahan dahan ako sa paglapit dahil may kausap siya sa telepono. His voice was
warm. Whoever he was talking to, I wish I could be that person so he could talk to
me like that.
"Yes... I already got a room. See you tonight. Go there first, Jackie. I'll be
there." He ended the call.
A pang of hurt and jealousy hit me like a ton of brick. No. worst than that!
Masyadong masakit para sa'kin ang makita siya matapos kong marinig kung pano siya
makipag-usap sa babaeng 'yon kaya tahimik akong umalis at umakyat sa kwarto.
Si Jackie na naman? Bakit ba hindi niya maputol ang ugnayan nilang dalawa. The
baby's dead for God's sake. Ngayon nag-uusap na naman sila.
I closed the door and my tears fell. I bit my lips and covered my face as I
silently cry.
"I'm more handsome than him." I immediately look up upon hearing that voice.
I gasped loudly, shocked to see Jay laying on the bed with his back on the
headboard while holding a picture frame.
He tossed it aside and left the bed. Now he's looking everywhere like a curious
cat.
"This place is too small. I'll give you a bigger one."
"How did you get here?" He looked at me and shrugged.
"You're a San Roman. Why do you like living in a doghouse? Dahil ba sinanay ka nung
bata ka pa?"
"How did you know here?" He chuckled and walked towards my direction.
"I know everything."
Nakaramdam ako ng inis dahil wala akong makuhang matinong sagot sa kanya pero bakit
siya nandito.
"Umalis ka na. My husband might see you."
"Husband?" He laughed in a mocking tone. "I think we look more good together than
the two of you."
"Please leave, Jay."
"Nope. You ditched me two nights ago so let your husband sees us as your
punishment. Want me to shout?"
Dapat kasi magkikita kaming dalawa pero hindi ako makaalis ng bahay. Nag-init ang
mga mata ko muli sa takot at kaba na baka gawin niya nga 'yon. Hindi pwede. Mas
lalong magagalit sa'kin si Blakey.
"Don't shout please."
Nawala ang ngiti niya kasabay ng pagdilim ng mukha niya. He kept on moving closer
and I stepped back.
"If you're going to be around me, you need to learn a few basic rules. One, don't
order me. I'm the one who can only do that. Two, don't easily beg because it gets
me to do something harsh to make them beg more." Naramdaman ko ang likod kong
lumapat sa pader. "Three, don't cry. Crying is a pathetic form of weakness. I'll
tell you more some other time. Are we clear, Angel?"
Napalunok ako at tumangu tango. Biglang bumalik ang ngiti niya at umatras. I
released the breath that I didn't know I was holding.
Tumingin muli siya sa paligid bago umupo sa kama. Hindi ako makapaniwala sa
lalaking 'to. Lagi siyang nakangiti at may pagkapilyp sa tingin niya pero agad din
iyong nawawala at nagiging nakakatakot.
The type of stare that could make your knees weak with fright.
"Since hindi ka pumunta sa usapan, ako nalang ang pumunta."
"What do you w-want?"

"Another rule. Don't stutter. If you want people to fear you, you gotta change
yourself. Now, ask me again."
I took a shaky breath. I can't believe this guy. Parang gusto ko nang mag back-out.
"If you're thinking of backing out of this, I'm sorry, Angel, it's too late. Don't
make me repeat what I said."
It's too late...
"What do you want?"
"Don't whisper. Make your voice strong, demanding. Your eyes too."
Huminga muli ako ng malalim at pumikit bago tignan siya ng malamig.
"What do you want?" I said with a calm voice but more demanding.
Mas lalong lumawak ang ngiti niya at mabagal na pumalakpak.
"Very good, Angel. Impressive."
I cheeks blushed with his comment. It's not much but his praises made me felt
something good.
"So I'm here for a test run. I said I'll help you get even so... I need a name."
"Name?"
"Yes. A person you want to punish. Any name you want and I'll give you a present."
"Anita." Sumimangot siya.
"She's a finale. Give me another and not the daughter."
"I don't have any."
"C'mon." He whined. "You can do better, Angel. Is there a person who pisses you?
Kahit sino?"
Dahan dahan akong umiling.
"I won't leave until you give me that name." He's like a kid with a tantrum with
his pouted lips. He's kinda... cute.
There was a sound from the door. May gustong pumasok. Mabuti nalang at ni-lock ko
'yon.
"Leanna, open this door."
Halos tumakas ang puso ko sa pagkalabog. "B-Blakey?"
"Ooohhh. The husband is here."
"Is there someone with you, Leanna?" I looked at Jay pleadingly but he looked so
entertained with what was happening.
"Name, Angel. Make it quick or..." he pointed at the door.

Blakey called me again. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko kaya ibinigay ko ang
pangalang unang pumasok sa aking isipan.
"J-Jackie Gardiola."
"Sweet."
He looked satisfied and immediately fled out through the window.

Chapter 46
Nang umalis si Blakey ng bahay ay agad akong napanatag. Salamat sa Diyos at hindi
niya nahuli si Jay pero pa'no niya kaya nalusutan ang mga bantay sa labas.
Napabuntung hininga nalang ako ng magsipasukan ang mga bantay ko. Dalawa sa kanila
ay laging nakasunod sa'kin. Ang iba nakakalat sa paligid.
"Would you like something to eat?"
"Salamat nalang ho, señorita." Magalang na sabi ng isa.
"They're not gonna accept anything from you." Mommy Betty entered the room.
Lumapit ako sa kanya at hinalikan siya sa pisngi.
"They've learned from what you did plus my son gave them strict instructions not
too." Dagdag niya pa.
Guilt consumed me and I smiled apologetically at the two guy in front.
"Sayang naman po ang pagkain. There's plenty."
"That's fine. Gloria!" Agad na dumating ang maid at cook. "Take care of this."
"Hindi po ba kayo kakain, mommy?"
"I've already eaten, Leanna. Dumaan lang ako galing kasi kailangan pa ko sa office.
C'mon. We need to talk."
Nagtratrabaho na ulit si Mommy Betty. Blakey was helping daddy for the meantime
with our company and Mommy Betty sometimes takes over Blakey's company.
The two followed us. "We're just gonna talk. Stay there."
"Pero, ma'am..."
Tumaas lang ang kilay ni Mommy Betty at wala nang nagawa ang dalawa. Dinala niya
'ko sa living room. She guilded me to the sofa and she sat beside me.
"Kamusta na kayong dalawa?"
I smiled sadly and shook my head. "He's mad at me still..."
"You know he can't be mad at you."
"Mali po kayo Mommy Betty. He won't talk to me like before." And he's going to
Jackie again.
Gusto kong idagdag 'yon pero luha nalang ang naidugtong ko. I didn't have the guys
to say that statement. Ayokong maulit ang nakaraan pero kasalanan ko naman.
"It's my fault..." my voice broke.
"Hush now..."
Mommy Betty held both my hands. It was comforting, gentle and warm. Is this a
mother's touch?
Matagal na panahon na at hindi ko na nga maalala kung pa'no ako hawakan ng mommy ko
no'n but with Mommy Betty's touch, I couldn't help but to feel the love and support
I've been unfamiliar but longing for so long.
"What makes you think that it's your fault?"
"B-Because I left without permission."
"Yes. That's the reason you know. But did you know what Osias felt? Osias got the
different impression. He thought the you left him. Again."
"That's not right."
"I know." Her smile was so gentle. "Tell me what you felt years ago when you got
separated with him."
Inalala ko ang nakaraan. Kasabay no'n ang sakit na naramdaman ko nang malayo sa
aking asawa.
"It hurts so, so much." Pinunasan niya ang aking luha.
"Do you want to happen it again?"
Mabilis akong umiling. "No. I don't wan to."
Tumango siya.
"You leaving the house didn't matter. Para sa isang taong naiwan at nahiwalay sa
taong pinakamamahal niya noon, the moment you left for some unknown reason, he got
scared. He thought and felt like he's gonna lose you again. It hurts more than the
last time. What you did is more than leaving the house, Leanna and that's the most
devastating feeling to a person who's in love. Being left alone for the second
time."
"I'm s-sorry." She hugged me and I cried on her shoulder.
"You didn't do anything to me, Leanna. Now that you know the mistake you did, let
Osias know. He'll understand."
"But he's mad at me."
"He's not mad at you. He's mad at what happened. Just let him know how sorry you
are and everything will better."
I pulled away and dried my tears. "Thanks, Mommy Betty."
Her brow raised. "It's Bettina. How many times do I have-" she sighed. "Never
mind."
I giggled and thanked her again.
The night came and I was really determined to talk to him. I felt like this would
be my last chance even though it's not.
Kagaya ng mga nakaraan, natalo ng antok ang determinasyon ko pero laking

pasasalamat ko nang ako'y magising sa mga bisig niya habang inaakyat ako sa kwarto.
I kept my eyes close until I felt myself being carefully placed on the bed like I
was a new born baby.
He kissed my forehead before moving away. The next thing I heard was rustles from
the cabinet. Malamang maliligo siya dahil narinig ko rin ang pagbukas ng pinto sa
banyo.
I waited for him. Ilang minuto ang lumipas ay bumalik siya sa pagkakahiga. He
reached out to hugged me but I pulled myself closer.
Ramdam kong natigilan siya saglit pero nang humigpit ang kapit ko ay nagpakawala
siya ng hininga. He let himself relax.
"I left the house but I won't ever leave you. I will always come back for you."
"I know."
"Blakey..."
"Let's talk about it some other time. Let's just sleep for now."
He kissed my forehead again. They way he caressed my head made me drowsy and more
sleepy than I was.
I felt better and light in the morning. Bakit? Dahil kayakap ko parin siya
pagkagising ko. Things still hasn't been back like before but it definitely got
better.
He's been cold but he has been definitely attending to my needs. Siya ang naglagay
ng pagkain ko at sinabihan akong ubusin ko daw. I was so happy.
Pansin din ni Mommy Betty na may nagbago. She too was happy about it.
"You did well, Leanna."
"It's because of you, Mommy Betty. Thank you so much." I hugged her tight and as
always, she tapped my arm so I pulled away.
Natawa nalang ako sa kanya. Ayaw niya talaga ng mga yakap ko pero sa tingin ko
naman ay kunwari lang 'yon.
"Halika na. Let's prepare dinner for Osias."
"Opo."
We almost entered the kitchen when we heard a commotion from outside.
"What's that?" Tanong ni Mommy Betty sa bantay ko.
"Dito lang ho kayo, Ma'am."
Hinawakan ni Mommy Betty ang kamay ko at inakyat niya ko sa kwarto. She locked the
door.
"Mommy-"
"Don't worry, Leanna. Everything will be alright."
Wala kaming narinig na kakaibang ingay. Parang payapa naman lahat pero hindi ko
mapigilang kabahan. We were sitting beside each other on the bed with her arms
around me.
"I think it's safe." She said.
"I'll check it out."
"Wait-"
"Okay lang, Mommy."
Pagkatayo ay biglang may kumatok. "Maybe that's my guards."
"Be careful." Tinanguan ko ang bilin niya at lumapit sa pinto.
I took a deep breath to calm the unsettled nervousness within me. I slowly and
cautiously reached for the knob.
Kahit na pinakita ko kay Mommy Betty na hindi ko natatakot ay iba ang nararamdaman
ko. It just convinced myself that there would be no harm that might happen inside
our house.
This place is totally secured.
Halos lumuwa ang mata ko sa gulat nang makita kung sunk ang nasa kabilang bahagi ng
pinto.
"What took you so long?" Aniya sa naiinip na boses.
"J-Jay?"
"Let's go."
He dragged be by the hand. "Leanna?" Sigaw ni Mommy.
"Who are you? Let her go?"
Hinabol kami ni Mommy Betty at hinawakan niya ang kabilang kamay ko. This made Jay
stop and look back.
"What is it, old lady?"
"O-Old lady! How dare you?"
"Fine." Jay sighed. "Older Lady, we're on rush here."
"Where are you taking her?" She tugged my hand that made me step back.
Sa tingin ko nainis si Jay sa ginawa niya. His eyes were impatient and cold and
it's telling me that if this continues, she might get hurt.
"J-Jay, let me go, please. Ano b-bang ginagawa mo?"
"You know this guy, Leanna?" Marahan akong tumango sa direksyon ni Mommy Betty. I
apologetically smiled.
I felt a sudden tug in the other direction. Both her and I were shocked. The next
thing I saw was Jay grabbing me by the waist and his other hand with a gun, pointed
at her direction.
Kita ko sa mga mata ni Mommy Betty ang takot. Her eyes wide and gulped. I too was
scared for her life. I looked up to see Jay's eyes, it was in the darkest and
coldest state that I've ever seen.
It was so scary. Parang isang maling galaw ay mawawala ang lahat.
Sobrang lapit namin sa isa't isa. Pilit kong tinutulak siya mula sa dibdib pero
hinahatak niya lamang ako mapirmi.
"J-Jay-"
"Shut that fvking mouth of yours, Angel. You begged and you stutter. That's two
rules you broke. You don't wanna see me angry when you break the last and you." He
turned to Mommy Betty. "Get in that room and close the door. Now."
"L-Lean-"
A gunshot was fired. Napatili ako at napapikit. I was scared to open my eyes to
just see an unbearable view. I was close to crying but I remembered his warning.
"Now!" Jay shouted.
Both of us were shaking from fear of Jay. His voice was so sinister. I nodded to
her direction silently praying that she got my message to do what he says.
Thank God at sinunod niya kahit alam kong labag sa kanyang kagustuahn.
"It's a simple instruction. It wasn't that hard. Right, Angel?"
He looked down at me smiling and I just looked away. Hinila niya muli ako pababa at
palabas ng bahay. I was shocked to see my bodyguards lying on the floor
unconscious.
"A-Are they-" hindi ko na matuloy ang gusto kong sabihin.
"Of course." Aniya na parang nagtanong lang ako ng panahon. "Just kidding, Angel. I
like to but I'm tired. That's a relief isn't it."
Tawa niya bago buksan ang pinto ng passenger seat ng isang pulang sasakyan. Pumasok
ako at mabilis na pinunasan ang aking luha habang naglalakad siya papuntang
driver's seat.
'Pag nakita niya kong umiiyak baka magalit na naman siya.
"I got the present I promised."
Nanahimik lamang ako. Tahimik din siya pero bakas ang kasiyahan sa mukha niya.
Masaya ba talaga siya o ganyan lang talaga ang normal niyang ipinapakita sa lahat.
Because I know that behind that smile was a dangerous, evil man.
Ano kayang gagawin ni Blakey 'pag nalaman niya 'to? Would he search for me? Pa'no
pag sinaktan siya ni Jay or worst?
No. I can't let him hurt Blakey.
Mas nangangamba ako sa magiging kalagayan niya kaysa sa'kin. Is this the length of
my goal? Putting my family's lives in danger in order to get revenge.
Dapat ba hinayaan ko nalang si Blakey na ayusin ang lahat para sa'kin?
What I'm currently in is dangerous. Hindi ako makapaniwalang ganito ako kamalas.
Sa'n niya kaya ako dadalhin? Ang tagal niya nang nagda-drive.
"Welcome to our humble playground."
He turned the car to the right and I saw a house. No. A mansion. Tinignan ko ang
dinaanan namin. May malaking gate.
The place was surrounded by trees. Parang nasa gitna ng kagubatan. Saang lugar to?
Bumaba siya at sumunod ako papasok. He held my hand and I felt his soft hands like
a baby's skin. Pinilit kong tanggalin ang lambot ng kamay niya sa isip ko at
binaling ang tingin sa paligid. I can see men walking or guarding around the house.
May mga maids din na yumuyuko nalang 'pag nadadaanan namin.
Jay was whistling with confident steps while mine was shaky and doubtful. Kung
hindi niya 'ko hawak ay malamang natumba na 'ko.
Ang akala ko ay aakyat kami sa isang magarang hagdan kaso bigla siyang lumiko.
Diniretso namin ang pasilyo at bumaba sa isang hagdanan.
Dalawang lalaki ang nagbabantay sa isang pintuan. They both looked like walking
muscles. Their looks were passive and emotionless. These looks were scary but Jay's
smile was the scariest of all. Dumapo ang tingin nila sa'kin. Napaiwas ako.
"New rule. Do not look at her or you know what will happen. Alright, guys?"
"Yes, master." The two chorused.
"Perfect!"
Humarap sa'kin si Jay suot ang napakagandang ngiti.
I won't let myself fall for that. I had learnt that even a prettiest smile hides a
darkest soul.
"You're present's in there. C'mon."
Nagpahila muli ako sa kanya kahit ng kinakabahan ako kung sa'n niya 'ko dadalhin.
Ni hindi ko nga alam ang sinasabi niyang regalo sa'kin.
Lights.
That's what I saw when I entered the room. Maliwag siya at parang isang pahingahan.
There was a V-sized sofa on in the middle and a 74 inches TV. Malaki ang lugar. The
design was modern but shining with class.
May isang lalaking nakaupo. Agad itong tumayo at sinalubong kami. Jay pulled me
closer by the waist.
"Dude." Aniya pagkatapat sa'min. "All done."
"Great. Just make sure that Angel will like it."
"Kailan ba 'ko pumalpak." Nagtawanan sila bago magtama ang paningin namin. "Is this
her?"
Nag-iwas ako ng tingin. "Back off or I'll blow your head off."
Gaya ng unang lalaking nakita 'ko, banat din sa mucles ang lalaking kaharap namin.
His built was just smaller than them but you know that this man wasn't very far
from Jay.
Umiling lamang ang lalaki at ngumisi. "This one's noisy so we need to shut her up.
She's there."
He nodded his head into a direction. Tinignan ko 'yon pero wala naman akong
nakitang kakaiba.
"Sweet." Jay said. "Oh! One more thing. Keep an eye on the husband."
Tumango ung lalaki. I stood cold on the spot hearing that.
"Jay, what's that about? Anong gagawin mo kay Blakey?" Nang makaalis na ang lalaki
ay do'n ako nagkaroon ng lakas na magtanong.
"Who the hell's that?" Kunot noo niyang sabi. I stepped away from him but not quite
because of his arm around me.
"My husband."
Marahan siyang tumango. "What an ugly name. Anyways. Forget about him." Yun lamang
ang sinabi niya bago niya igayak patungo sa kung saan.
Nagpumiglas ako. "Let me go! Gusto ko nang umuwi!"
Pinaghahampas ko siya sa dibdib pero gano'n nalang ang gulat ko nang bahagya niya
'kong tinulak.
I got off balance with a shriek and I was trying to keep my balance when I he held
my arm and tugged me towards him in a swift moved.
My body clashed in a stone hard and firm chest. His hand immediately grabbed my
neck but not choking me. It was gentle but threatening hold. He made me look
directly straight at him. My caramel eyes met his grey and cold one.
My heart pounded like a thousand wide beast and I knew that he felt it given how
close our bodies were that even air couldn't pass.
"If you were someone else, you'd be all bloody and dead. Be a nice angel and don't
do that again, understand?"
Marahan akong tumango at pinigilan kong 'wag humikbi. Some scape tears fell and I
became stiffed when he wiped them with his thumb.
"I'll let you off the rules this time, Angel. But you need to be obedient for me
from now on, okay?
Hindi talaga ako makapaniwala kung ga'no kabilis ang pagbabago ng mood niya. One
moment he's happy and playful then in just a sec, he changes to being cold, dark
and scary.
"O-Okay." I said breathlessly. He tapped my cheeks twice before moving away.
Humakbang kami. I didn't care where to. I was busy praying to God to keep Blakey
safe.
I'm so sorry, Blakey...
"Here we are." Masigla niyang anunsyo.
I was confused. He brought me in front of a utility closet.
Ito ba ung tinuturo nung lalaki kanina?
Tinignan ko siya ng nagtatanong. He was just smiling and looking at me before he

lifted his finger, pointing to the closet.
He was silently and encouraging me to open it. I did what he asked. With shaky
hands, I reached out to the knob. My mind was wondering around thousand
possibilities.
Baka may ahas, multo, lalaking may kutsilyo o ano mang masasmaang napanood ko sa
pelikula.
All that would try to hurt and kill me, that would bring me to death but never in
my mind that I would find what I was seeing.
Inside the scary utility closet was a person. Hands tied on the back and the entire
head was covered with black cotton bag. The muffling sound indicated that the mouth
covered with something, preventing to make some loud noises.
No doubt that this person was a woman because of the sound and body structure. Naka
corporate attire pa siya.
I immediately took of the bag. She moved her head left and right to flicked away
the excess hair covering her face.
This person's eyes slowly opened.
Our eyes connected and both of us were shocked to see each other. I covered my
mouth and gasped. Her eyes marked with dried tears were wide as a saucer.
"Surprise!" I heard him behind me.
It's really a surprise 'cause that person was not just any other person.
It was Jackie.
Chapter 47
"Pakawalan mo siya, Jay. Why are you doing this?"
"You know, Angel, if someone gives you a gift, don't question it. Just say thanks."
He shrugged and sat comfortably on the sofa. I watched him reached for a bottle of
rum to pour himself a glass.
"But she's hurting. Ganito rin ba ang gagawin mo kay Blakey?"
"Can you not mention that name? Do you know how ugly that sounds?" Ngumiwi siya na
parang nandidiri bago uminom. "And don't worry, I won't hurt him. Let's just say na
pagdating sa mga ganitong bagay, schoolmates kami. I'm the senior and he's like a
freshman."
"You're lying. Blakey won't do something even near as this."
"You don't know how wrong you are, Angel." He chuckled. "So, so wrong."
He busied himself with a drink and I looked back to Jackie with her looks who was
begging me to help her.
She was tied into a chair. Nilipat siya ng isang tauhan ni Jay kanina. Nakakaawa
ang kanyang itsura.
She looked so dirty and sweaty. Naawa talaga ako sa kanya pero diba ito naman ang
gusto ko? I wanted to get even and Jackie was somehow on the list. If I think about
it deeply, she's supposed to be my list.
May parte siya sa kamalasan ko sa buhay.
"Don't just stand there, Angel." Napalingon ako kay Jay na papalapit sa'kin. "What
do you wanna do with her?"
"Ahh... I d-don't know..."
"Don't know? Fine. I'll give you choices."
Looking down at her, he made a move to go closer. With each slow step, Jackie was
trying to move her body away, cowering even though it's impossible.
He smirked and reached out to grab her chin, lifting her face up. Kita ko ang
higpit no'n. Napaungol si Jackie.
"Should we beat her? Shave her head? Hmmm... what to do with you?"
"Jay, I think-"
"I know!" He cut me off. "How about torture? That's entertaining enough, don't you
think?" Tumango tango siya. Hindi ko man nakikita ay alam kong nakangiti siya.
Parang estatwang natigilan si Jackie dahil sa takot. She was shivering and my guilt
was starting to kick me in the stomach.
"I don't wanna do that, Jay. I just want to talk to her."
Agad na napabaling ang tingin niya sa'kin. Nakakunot ang noo nito na halatang hind
nagustuhan ang sinabi ko.
"Nonsense. Hindi mo ba gustong gumanti sa kanya?"
Napakagat ako ng labi at umiwas ng tingin. I heard him hissed with dislike. I heard
Jackie groaned so I looked at her only to see Jay grabbing a handful of her hair.
"You want to talk to the woman who had sex with your husband and killed your baby?
Are you sure?"
Hearing what he said made my pity on her waver. Natigilan ako at pinakirtamdaman
ang biglang kirot sa puso ko.
Inalala ko lahat ng ginawa sa'kin ni Jackie. Ngayon ko lang napagtanto na simula

palang ng pagkikita namin sa bahay ay may pagtingin na siya sa asawa ko. I
remembered her eyes that day. That's why they were reflecting hurt the moment she
saw us together.
She wanted my husband since the very start.
She was also the reason why Blakey committed infidelity. Meron siyang kakayahang
magplano at gumawa ng masama. She drugged him and it resulted to getting pregnant.
Maybe she planned that too? Plinano nyang mabuntis para agawin sa'kin ang asawa ko?
Tama naman diba? Hindi malayong totoo ang iniisip ko.
"What's on your mind, Angel?" Naputol ang pag-iisip ko sa boses ni Jay. Hindi ko
namalayan na nasa harap ko na pala siya.
"So what do you want to do with her, huh?" Malambing niyang tanong.
I looked over his shoulder to see Jackie's poor state. Sa itsura niya ngayon, hindi
mo akalaing nakasira siya ng relasyon at buhay. My stares turned cold while as I
thought of everything. She even told lies that Blakey wanted to divorce me.
I felt Jay's hand held both side of my waist. Napa-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya.
With our eyes never leaving each other, he slowly pulled me while smiling.
"I see that you're still thinking. I'll give you some motivations." Ang malambing
niyang boses ay parang umaalo sa magulo kong isipan.
"She was in a hotel last night. Alam mo ba kung sino ang kasama niya?" My heart
pounded wildly. May hinala ako pero sana hindi totoo. But then I remembered the
call I heard.
I threw my gaze at Jackie just to be held carefully on both cheeks by him. He

lifted my face up, our eyes reconnected.
"It was your husband attorney. Do you wanna know what they did?" Umangat ang gilid
ng labi niya at unti unting bumaba ang kanyang mukha. "They had sex..." He
whispered as his lips touched my ear.
Ni hindi ko mapansin ang kiliti na gawa ng kanyang hininga dahil agad na napuno ng
sakit ang aking dibdib. It's like there's a knife being stabbed repeatedly through
my heart.
Uminit ang aking mga mata kasabay ng luha. I pushed him and walk straight in front
of the woman who's taking my husband away from me again.
I can't feel pity anymore. It was replaced with hatred and anger.
Nag-init ang mga mata ko sa galit kasabay ng pagpitk ng sintido ko sa nagbabadyang

sakit. I gulped and pushed Jay aside before striding in front of my husband's
whore.
"Is it true?" Mariin kong tanong.

Her sweaty forehead crumpled as she looked at me with questioning eyes. I don't
care if she did not hear what Jay said. I want answers!
"You're with my husband last night in a hotel?"
Her eyes became wide. This bitch!
Umuungol siya at tinatangkang tanggalin ang tali sa marahas na paggalaw. She looked
like she wanted to say something but I could only heard muffled and restricted
cries and those were all I wanted to hear because I knew that she would only lie.
Someone walked passed me. It was Jay. He crouched down before grabbing her hair
back. The whore winced and I just looked at her with blazing, angry eyes.
Bumunot ng baril si Jay sa kanyang tagiliran at tinutok sa panga ni Jackie.
Dapat lang sa kanya ang masaktan.
"I want to hear nothing but answers from your mouth or else..." Banta niya at
idiniin pa ang bunganga ng baril.
She did nothing but nod. Satisfied with her reply, Jay smirked and harshly pulled
down the clothe covering her mouth.
Ngayong nakita ko ang buong mukha niya, mas lalong tumaas ang galit ko. Ano ba ang
nakita ng asaw ako sa kanya?
Of course she's pretty and smart but that's all she is.
Napakuyom ng mahigpit ang aking mga palad.
"Ask her again, Angel." He said not releasing her hair.
"Were you and my husband shared a room in a hotel last night?"
The look on her said she was eager to speak but Jay pulled her hair once again.
"Nah-uh. Answer's only..."
She whined like a scardy cat, afraid to look at him. She looked at me again.
"Y-Yes." Her shaky answered made something snapped at me.
My vision blurred 'til it turned dark. All I could feel was deep pain and hatred.
My cries and her cries were ringing through my ears and in my head. All I felt was
the sting on both my palms as it connected to her face repeatedly. Her hair being
pulled everywhere I can carry.
Sobra ang hingal ko nang matapos. Everything was spinning. I was crying and my
chest was burning painfully. Like it was being burned and shred but on the other
hand, I was satisfied like Jay's smile and look.
Pinunasan ko ang mukha ko. I didn't know what exactly I felt. It was intense. The
rush inside me and the satisfaction when I saw her in the most pitiful state was
strong.
It's power.
Naharangan ng katawan ni Jay ang tingin ko sa kanya. Rinig na rinig ko ang aking
hininga sa lakas at bigat.
Pilit ko siyang sinilip ngunit hinawakan ni Jay ang magkabilang pisngi ko at

iniangat.
My vision was a bit blurry but I saw his eyes gleaming with pride and satisfaction.
"You did so great, Angel. Proud man here." I could see how proud he really was with
that full smile.
The next thing I realized was his lips over mine. My mouth was open. He took the
opportunity to dart his tongue inside my mouth, roaming every inch and every single
part of it.
Ni hindi ko nga mawari kung anong nararamdaman ko dahil agad na umikot at nagdilim
ang paningin ko.
I woke up in a very familiar room. Ilang beses na kong nakarating sa ganitong

lugar. I wonder what it is this time?
Feeling someone with me, I slowly sat up. Nang lumingon ako sa kanan ay isang
babaeng doktor ang aking nakita.
She was standing there just looking at me with blank eyes. Nakasuot siya ng
doctor's coat at and buhok niyang kulay lupa ay nakaipit sa palikod.
Naputol ang tinginan namin dahil may sinulat siya sa medical board na hawak niya.
"What happened, doc?" She stopped for a second and sighed before continuing.
Ang pagbabaliwala niya ang nagbigay sakin ng tyansa na alalahanin kung ano talagang
nangyari.
I remembered Jackie and my attacks on her. I felt guilt but on the other hand, I
knew that she deserved it.
I hate her.
Yes. She deserves it.
Tama lang 'yon.
Hindi pa nga 'yon sapat na kabayaran sa lahat ng ginawa niya sa'kin. She's one of
the people who ruined my life.
He and Blakey. Si Anita at Penelope. Silang lahat.
My husband. Of all people. How pathetic my life can get?
"Don't stress yourself. It's not healthy."
Napapitlag ako nang marinig ko ang boses niya na sobrang lapit. Her voice and her
face were very calming.
Pamilyar din sa'kin ang mukha niya pero sigurado akong hindi ko pa siya nakikita
maliban ngayon.
"Can I leave now?"

"Not yet. You're case is sensitive."
"Why? What did I catch?"
Pinakiramdaman ko ang aking sarili. Medyo pagod ang aking katawan. Siguro dala ito
lahat ng mga nangyaril kanina. I feel very stressed right now.
"Noting bad." Ngayong masyadong malapit and doktor ay napansin kong naka contact
lense ito. These dark eyes are fake.
"Have we met before?" I asked.
"No." She said in monotone. "I can feel that you're a good person. If you don't
mind me asking, why are you associating yourself with my brother?"
"Brother?" Nag-isip akong mabuti. "Is Jay your brother?" Kaya pala pamilyar siya.
"Yes and that makes me know him better. Just an advise, don't get close to him."
"What do you mean?"
Bumuntong hininga siya at inipit ang board sa kanyang kilikili. "He easily gets
attracted to pure and simple things. He keeps them and takes care of it until it's
time to corrupt and destroy them. Unfortunately, you're his that thing now."
I gasped on what she said. Nang biglang bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Jay nang
may malawak na ngiti ay agad akong kinabahan.
"Angel! You're awake!" Agad niya kong niyakap ng mahigpit na ikinatigas ng aking
katawan.
"Kuya, be careful with her..."
Bahagya siyang lumayo. Umatras naman ako para makalayo sa yakap niya.
He didn't mind it and face his sister. "So, 'Lil sis, care to tell me something?"
"She's three weeks pregnant."
Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa gulat bago unti unting sumilay sa'kin ang isang ngiti.
Buntis ako...
I looked down and touched my stomach. There's a baby inside of me. He or she is
here under my palm.
Pumasok sa isipan ko ang isang batang tumatakbo palapit sa'kin at tinatawag akong
mommy.
Napaluha ako. Someone will call me mommy and it's my own child.
"I just kissed her and now she's pregnant?" Napaangat ako ng tingin. "Lil sis, call
someone to check on the girls I kissed since I was 10. May awesomeness is so great
even my kisses get any woman pregnant."
"Obviously, you're not the father, kuya."
"Of course I am."

Napalunok ako sa kaba. I wrapped my arms around my stomach for protection when he
turned his eyes on me.
May pumasok sa pinto. Yung mga tauhan niya na lalong nagpakaba sa'kin.
"There's a new plan, Angel. My men will take care of the husband." Lumapit ang mga
tauhan niya. "We'll marry before this day ends."
Author's note
Konti nalang at matatapos na ang The Scorned Wife.
Balak ko na sana siya tapusin kasabay ng pagbungad ng bagong tan para maumpisahan
ko ang ang bagong storya.
Both of them are part of a series where both the main characters are writers that
happens to lie to gain something. Tentative pa ang name ng series. Lol
Here they are...
What would you do to save your career?
Carllyn Jane takes the gamble to save her career as a journalist. Even if this
means doing the most immoral thing for her on work.
Lie.
This brings her to the top but what will happen if someone claims that he is the
subject of her lies?
She needs to take responsibility, of course.
Sa panahon ngayon, rare nalang ang mga virgin sa edad na 18. Based on statistics,
the average age to lose virginity is 16.
Unfortunately, Maia Elara is one of those rare species at 20 and to have something
to share to everyone, she surround her sex life with lies.
Okay na sana ang lahat ang kaso lang, may nakatuklas ng sikreto niya.
Kaya niya kayang panindigan ang lahat? Will the cold, snob heartthrob keep quiet?
Or will he tell everyone that The Virgin Lies.
------
This will be published next year pero hindi ko alam kung anong uumpisahan.
Sa tingin niyo, sino sa kanila ang dapat mauna?
Chapter 48
"Aren't you happy, Angel?"
Umiling iling ako. "I cannot marry you. I'm already married to Blakey. I can't."
"That's why I ask my men to take care of him."
"No." Agad akong tumayo. "I always wondered and doubted if I could trust you. Alam
ko malaki ang utang na loob ko sa'yo. You gave me the chance to be strong and to
get back on the person who hurt be big time and I'll be forever be grateful to that
but you cannot do that to him. He's my husband and he'll stay as my husband no
matter what. Now that I'm pregnant, we can have our own family and I won't be
married to anyone else."
Agad na nawala ng ngiti sa kanyang mga labi. They turned thin and his face became
passive and dark.
Humakbang siya at otomatiko akong napaatras dahil sa takot. My thigh hit the edge
of the bed and my heart kept pounding, sacred of the prey coming closer.
"You..." Nangingig ako sa paraan ng pagbigkas niya. It was cold and sinister. That
time, I felt like my life was in danger na sa isang kumpas niya lamang ay mawawala
ang buhay ko.
"I will have to fix that attitude of yours."
My body stiffened when he lifted his hand. Nakatingin ako sa kamay niyang dahan
dahang inaabot ang aking mukha.
My knees trembled with fright to this man.
"Kuya." I held my breath the same time his hand stopped but his eyes still held
mine. "I suggest to push the wedding for some days."
"And why is that?"
"If you kill her husband today, a death certificate would then need to be filed.
Working hours are over. It won't be finalized today. Your marriage certificate will
be null and void."
"I am connected to a very powerful person." He chuckled.
Tumalikod siya at tumingin sa kanyang kapatid. Nagtagpo ang paningin namin ni Doc.
I was silently begging for her to save me from this cruel man.
She sighed and it made me released the breath I was holding. I silently thanked her
and the heavens for helping me.
"Even if you are connected to a mafia, there's still something they can't rush."
"Even if I'm connected to the boss?" he smirked.
"Even if you are the boss' big brother."
Malakas siyang tumawa at ginulo ang buhok ni doc. "Fine. I have meeting overseas so
tomorrow's not available."
Kinagat ko ang aking labi nang humarap siya.
I winced when he caressed my cheeks. "I'll be back after two days."
-------
"S-Salamat..." Iniwan na kami ni Jay matapos magpaalam. He said that he'll be gone
for two days to attend a meeting. He appointed his men to guard me while he's away
and his sister checked one further.
"No problem." She moved to prepare for leaving. "I'll endorse you to an OB."
"S-Sandali lang..." Nang maisip kong maiiwan akong mag-isa ay di ako mapalagay.
"What's your name?"
"Phin..." She replied.
"Ah... Ano... When can I go home?" Tanong ko pagkaharap niya.
She stayed quiet, only looking at me straight. Somehow, it made me uncomfortable.
"He won't let you go until he finds something or someone to replace you."
"Is it true that you are a mafia boss? Can you help me... p-please?" She didn't
seem to be a leader of a mafia.
Her eyes were dead and cold but the sweetness and gentleness of her voice were very
prominent. You can't even feel scared with her. Isa pa, napakaganda niya at isang
babae. Hindi talaga siya mukhang boss.
"Yes. But what makes you think I'll help you? I don't meddle with his games. Just
pray that he'll lost interest on you fast."
With those last words, she left leaving me alone and hopeless.
"Don't worry, baby, I'll keep you safe." Hinaplos ko ang aking tyan at humiga.
I couldn't help but to cry. I cried and pray that everything would be over soon. I
missed Blakey. I wanted to see him and talk to him.
I wanna say sorry for all the things I did. For leaving and for making the worst
decision to leave the house that day.
I should've trusted him. Dapat hindi ako nagduda na kaya niya akong ipagtanggol sa
kahit ano. Na kaya niyang hanapin at parusahan ang lahat ng gumawa ng masama
sa'kin.
I made a wrong decision not to trust him.
OSIAS
"Alam mo, this won't happen if you didn't ruin my marriage."
He coughed and I saw blood coming out from his mouth.
He looked pathetic under my gaze. His face was painted with bruises and cuts,
swollen from multiple blows of punches. May hiwa rin ang kanyang labi. I'm sure
ganyan din ang buong katawan niya.
I was satisfied for what I was seeing but not enough.
"P-Patawad..." He coughed again.

"Sorry won't cut it, Mark." I grabbed his shirt before pulling him up and throwing
a punch on his guts.
Napatukod ang noo niya sa aking balikat. Tinulak ko siya at muli siyang bumulagta
sa sahig.
Ngumisi ako at patuloy siyang ginulpi hanggang sa magsawa ako. Nakakatawa. Wala
pang sampung minuto ay nawalan na siya ng malay.
He's the weakest of all them all.
"Take care of him." I ordered my men before leaving.
Sila na ang bahala sa kanya. Sila rin ang mga inutusan kong dakpin siya at dalhin
dito sa bodegang ako ang nagmamay-ari.
Hindi lang yan ang ginawa ko para sa kanya. I also made sure that his career as a
public attorney would be useless. Dapat lang 'yan.
Dahil sa kanila ni Jakie ay nasira ang pagsasama namin ni Leanna.
Napatingin ako sa aking oras at bumuntong hininga. Alas dos na ng madaling araw.
I'm sure she's already sleeping.
I hope it's not on the couch this time. She's always been waiting for me and can't
help but to sleep.
Pinunasan ko ang dumudugo kong kamao. It's not my blood though. My fists were too
familiar to this kind of activity so it didn't get cuts that easily. Nagpalit narin
ako ng damit na nasa kotse dahil may mga bakas na dugo rin sa kasalukuyang damit
ko.
"Sir..."
"Where is she?"
"Nasa living room po."
Tama nga ako. Pagdating ko sa bahay ay nasa sofa siya at natutulog.
I dismissed her bodyguards and went to see my sleeping wife. I had a very strict
order for them not to touch Leanna or they'd be getting a lot worse than what I did
to Mark.
I crouched down to level with her face. Hinaplos ko ang kanyang buhok at mukha.
"Sorry for always making you wait, cuddle cakes. Sorry for keeping secrets."
Hinalikan ko siya sa labi bago ko siya kargahin patungo sa kwarto.
This past week,, lagi kong sinasabing may trabaho ako. Meron naman talaga pero
kalahating araw lang ang ginugugol ko para dito.
The other half I spent was to hunt down all the people that caused her pain. May
lead na kami tungkol kay Anita. His bastard ex-husband before Leanna's dad, he's
the one who kept helping her.
Siya rin ang may gawa kung bakit nakatakas si Anita sa kulungan.
Penelope didn't have a part on that one but she has contact with Anita and her
father. Alam niya kung nasaan sila pero hindi niya sinabi sa'min.
I had some of my men keeping eyes on her.
Nag-ayos ako ng sarili at naghanda para matulog matapos ko siyang binaba sa kama.
Paglabas ko sa banyo ay nakatalikod siya sa'kin habang nakahiga sa kama.
I sigh and lay beside her. I pulled her close and she immediately hugged me. I knew
that she's only pretending to be asleep.
"Sorry..." She whispered.
I hugged her closer. Napakalaki ng kasalanan ko sa kanya. She's not the one who
should be saying sorry.
I made her felt that she's not important. Alam ko ang nararamdaman niya. I wanted
so bad to tell her what I was doing all this time. Hindi ko lang magawa dahil
ayokong magbago ang tingin niya sa'kin.
Ayokong malaman niya na kaya kong mandukot at kahit pumatay ng tao para lang makuha
ang gusto ko.
My throat constricted with guilt and heartache as I told her to sleep.
I didn't want her to see my dark side. Baka iwan niya 'ko.
During breakfast, I made sure to take care of her. Ito lang siguro ang magagawa ko
sa ngayon para makabawi sa mga pagkukulang ko.
I saw how happy she was when I left and guilt consumed me once more thinking that I
had to do something again tonight with Jackie.
Humigpit ang kapit ko sa manibela habang papunta sa hotel/restaurant kung saan

nagpa reserve ako ng kwarto. This was also the usual place where my local meetings
happen.
Naging mabait ako sa kanya nitong mga nakaraang dahil siya ang ina ni Leigh. Kahit
na ayaw ko ay pinilit kong pakitunguhan siya ng maayos pero hindi na ngayon.
Niloko niya ako at nagsabi kay Leanna na naghahanda kami para iwan ito. Annulment?
I would never file that stupid contract to leave my wife. Nagpakulong pa nga ako
para maiwasan 'yon.
When I discovered her lies, I made sure not to be that civil man to her anymore.
Nagpanggap ako kay Leanna na okay lang ang lahat pero sa loob loob ko ay gusto ko
nang puntahan ang babaeng 'yon at turuan ng leksyon.
Tutuluyan ko nang puputulin ang kung anong namamagitan sa'min. 'Yan ay ang awa.
I pitied her because I saw how his brother, Ricky, pushed her away. How her mother
shouted at her when she wanted to go home after Leigh died. I even offered my home
to her.
Dumiretso na ko sa kwarto ng hotel pagkarating ko do'n. She was already there liked
what she mentioned this morning.
"Osias!" Nakangiti niyang tawag sa pangalan ko. She launched herself to me for a
hug but I already pushed her hard.
Bumagsak siya sa sahig at nanlalaking matang tuminigin sa'kin.
"O-Osias..."
"Nakahanap na 'ko ng buyer sa bahay ko na tinutuluyan mo. I already have your

things be moved here. This will be your home for two weeks and then you're on your
own. 'Wag kang mag-alala, bayad na 'to."
Mabilis siyang tumayo at hinawakan ang aking kamay. Natuon don ang tingin ko.
"Why are you doing this, Osias? A-Akala ko o-okay tayo..."
"Okay?" I mocked as I pulled my hand. "Sa palagay mo ba magiging mabait ako sa mga
ginawa mo, huh!?"
Mabilis siyang umiling at lumapit muli. "L-Let me explain. It's...It's a m-

misunderstanding."
"Mark already told me the truth and confirmed everything."
"No..." She whispered. Nagsimula nang tumulo ang kanyang luha ngunit wala na ang
awang nararamdaman ko sa kanya. "He's lying!"
"Are you saying that my wife is also lying!?"
"Yes! She's a lia-" Ang sigaw niya ay sinagot ko ng isang sampal. My hands grabbed
her both arms.
"You! You are real liar." I pushed her again. She fell. "Tama na ang mga panahong
naging mabait ako sa'yo. It's over!"
Mabilis kong tinungo ang pinto. I heard her call. I could see the hope and joy she
felt when I turned around. Ang akala niya ba ay babalikan ko siya? Walang kwenta!
"One more thing. You're fired! Goodluck nalang kung may mag-hire pa sa'yo bilang
legal consulatant."
Dumaan muna ako sa bar para uminom. Konti nalang ang dapat gawin at matatapos na
ang lahat. Si Anita nalang at ang kanyang pamilya.
Habang umiinom ay nakatanggap ako ng tawag.
"What is it?"
"Nakita na po namin sila, Sir..."
"Get them. Let's meet after." Mabilis kong pinatay ang tawag at nilisan ang lugar.
We met in our usual place. I had a small house a bit far away from the city and it
was like our official hide out.
I was still driving to them when I noticed my phone furiously ringing. Hindi ko ito
pinansin dahil gusto kong makarating agad do'n pero nang tumunog ulit ito ng ilang
beses ay agad ko itong sinagot.
Maybe it was Andrew with the good news.
"Hello."
"Osias..."
"Mom?" There was something in my mom's voice that made me uneasy.
Is it how her voice sounded nervous, trembling and with rush?
"Hijo, s-si Leanna." My heart pounded with anxiety, thinking that there's something
wrong happening.
"Someone took her." Napapreno ako ng madiin. My body bended forward, almost hitting
my head against the steering wheel.
"What-How? What are her guards doing!?"
"It was a guy. Hindi ko siya nakilala at first but I knew who it was."
"Who?"
May bumusina sa likod ko kaya wala akong nagawa kung hindi itabi ang sasakyan
habang pinapakinggan ang sinasabi niya.
Hindi na 'ko nakapag-park ng maayos nang marinig ko kung ano ang pangalan nito.
"A-are you sure, m-mom?"
"Yes. Help her, Osias."
"Stay there. I'm going back." Sh-t! Anong kinalaman niya sa asawa ko? This is bad!
I need to find her quick before it's too late.
Crossing paths with him will kill anyone.
That man is dangerous.
MERRY CHRISTMAS SA INYONG LAHAT!!!!
ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔ
Ԃ_ 0ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔԂ _ 0ߔ
԰ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔԂ __ "️‫ڪ‬
ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔ
Ԣ️‫️⚪️⚪️⚪ڪ‬
ߎ°ߑѰߎѰߑ
"ߑ️‫ڪ‬Ţ️‫ڪ‬
⚪️⚪️⚪️
ߔԢߔ️⚪️‫ڪ‬
԰ߔ԰ߔԢߔ️‫ڪ‬԰ߔ
԰ߔԂ 0ߔ԰ߔԂ __ 0ߔ
԰ߔԂ 0ߔ԰ߔ԰ߔԂ 0ߔ
԰ߑʂ "ߑ ◾️✴️‫️׾‬
ǰߎB _ 0ߔԂ 0ߔ
Ԃ _ _ _ 0ߔԂ_ 0ߔ
Ԃ _ __ 0ߔԂ _ 0ߔ
Ԃ _ _ 0ߔԂ __ 0ߔ
Ԃ _ _ 0ߑ0 _ _ ߑ
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Chapter 49
"You are all incompetent fools!" Binigyan ko ng isang malakas na suntok sa panga
ang isa sa mga bodyguards ni Leanna.
Nahagip ng paningin ko ang katabi nito at mas lalong kumulo ang dugo ko.
Sinikmuraan ko naman ito.
I kicked the third one. He fell at susugurin ko sana ang isa pa pero pinigilan ako
ni mom.
"Stop it, Osias. We need to find Leanna immediately."
Nanatili ang matalas kong tingin sa apat. "Apat kayo. How the hell did he simply
take my wife?"
"M-Magaling po siya, sir."
"Magaling?" I chuckled. "Or maybe you are all useless. You failed to protect my
father in law and now my wife! You are all fired! Magsilayas kayo!"
My voice boomed around the house. The four left and I paced back and forth with
anxiety.
San dinala ng lalaking 'yon si Leanna. Anong gagawin niya dito?
"Huminahon ka, Osias."
"I need to think, mom. What the hell did he want from her?"
"Leanna knows him. Baka hindi niya 'to sasaktan."
Nagulat ako sa sinabi ni mom. Pa'no sila nagkakilala? Alam ko ang lahat ng tungkol
kay Leanna. Kilala ko lahat ng kilala niya at walang nabanggit ang mga tagabantay
niya sa'kin.
It's either naglihim ang mga tauhan ko o hindi nila alam kung pa'no sila nagkita.
"Wait a sec."
"What is it, Osias?"
"The night she sneaked out." I said in realization.
Tama! That's the only time I didn't know what she was doing.
"I need to go."
"Where are you going?"
"I'm going to find her. Can you stay with dad for awhile, mom. 'Pag nagtanong siya,
just tell him something else."
Mabilis akong lumabas at sumakay sa sasakyan. Mom called me but I drove away to go
to the bar where Leanna once went.
Tinawagan ko si Andrew. "Change of plan. Just keep an eye on them for the
meantime."
"Sigurado ka ba, sir? This is the right opportunity."
"I don't care. My wife is missing. I'll text you an address. Bring 5 men there."
"All right."
Matapos ang tawag ay binilisan ko ang takbo. It's past midnight and we should be
sleeping now. We were supposed to be on the bed, cuddling.
"Sh_t!" Binilisan ko pa ang takbo.
Nang makarating ako sa bar ay agad akong nagtanong. I can see that no one wants to
tell me something. I know what they feel. They're afraid of that man.
Ilang minuto pa ang nagdaan at dumating na ang mga tauhan ko. They helped gather
information and in the end, we found out that the bartender that time knew how they
met.
Malas lang dahil naka off ngayon ito. However, that won't stop me from going to his
home or where the hell he is.
"Tell me where I could find him."
Nasa labas kami ng mismong bahay niya. Naputol ang pagtulog niya dahil sa pagbisita
namin.
Nanatili itong tahimik at nag-iwas ng tingin. Halata ang kaba sa kanyang kilos pero
malas niya lang dahil mas lalo akong nainis.
I pulled the gun from one of my men's waists and pointed it between his brows.
"Tell me or I'll blow your head off."
"H-Hindi ko aϢ_"
Kinasa ko ang baril. "The truth!" Napapitlag siya sa sigaw ko at nawala lahat ng
kulay sa kanyang mukha.
Pasalamat nalang ako dahil tulog na halos lahat ng tao at wala nang dumaraan.
"Pero-"
"I know you're scared of what he'll do to you so let me give you a reason why you
should feel the same to me." I showed him my evil smile and he gulp.
"I won't hurt you but I will definitely hurt everyone inside that dumpsite you call
home and make you witness it all, deal?"
"'Wag... p-pakiusap..."
"Sabihin mo lang ang gusto kong malaman. On three."
"P-pero."
"One..." Kinumpas ko ang kamay ko para signalan ang mga tauhan ko. "Two..."
Lumapit sila sa bahay at nakita ko ang sobrang takot sa kaharap ko.
"Thre-"
"Sandali! Sasabihin ko na."
Napangiti ako. "Good."
"Alam ko ung address ng penthouse niya pero yun lang talaga ang alam ko."
Binigay niya ang address. Wala kaming sinayang na oras at pinuntahan agad ang
nakasulat sa maliit na papel. I hope that my wife is there.
The staff in the hotel are suspiciously eyeing us especially when I asked for their
boss.
Yes. His family owns this place and he will take cover this in the future.
Ang sabi nila wala ito pero hindi ako naniwala. Ako na mismo ang umakyat. Someone
tried to stop us but my men held them back.
Nanlumo ako pagka-akyat dahil wala do'n ang asawa ko.
"Sir, may tawag po galing kay sir Andrew."
Hindi ko ito pinansin. Napakuyom ang kamay ko ng mahigpit. Nag-igting ang aking
panga sa pagpipigil ng galit.
"Importante daw po." Dagdag niya pa.
He handed me the phone at I took it.
"We have a problem."
"Ano 'yon?"
"May kumuha kay Anita at sa dating asawa niya."
"What!? Sino?" Umalis na kami sa lugar habang kausap ko pa siya.
"Nahuli namin ang isa. Tauhan ni Jay."

Leanna
Nagising ako mula sa pagkakatulog nang maramdaman kong may humahaplos sa aking
buhok.
I sighed in contentment. Ninanamnam ko pa ang ginhawa mula sa haplos niya. Blakey

always wakes me up like this or giving me kisses.
Nawala ito at parang nalipat sa aking binti. Do'n ako napabalikwas ng bangon at
halos mahulog ang mata ko sa gulat nang makita ko si Jay na nakaupo sa tabi ko at
nakangiti.
Napabangon ako bigla.
"Did you dream of me, Angel?"
"Jay..." Anong ginagawa niya dito?
"I'm back!"
Back? Is it two days already? Kinabahan ako. Ikakasal na ba kami? Pa'no si Blakey?
Tumayo siya at namewang. "It's all done, Angel. Naayos na ng mga tauhan ko ang
lahat. Get dressed. We're leaving after lunch."
"W-what are you talking about?" Is he talking about the wedding? My God! Sana hindi
po.
"You'll see." He gave me a loop side grin before leaving me alone.
Nag-ayos ako ng sarili gaya ng gusto niya. Before going out, I looked straight at
the whole body mirror.
My eyes were dull with loneliness and longing. Nami-miss ko na talaga ang asawa ko.
Kamusta na kaya siya? Is he looking for me?
This is my entire fault.
I hope Jay won't do something to him.
I placed my hand over my stomach. "Don't worry, baby. We'll see daddy soon."
Kakatapos lang namin mananghalian. The clouds were dim outside. It's signaling the
fore coming rain. Jay was comfortably sitting on the couch while waiting for me.
His eyes glued to his cellphone as he typed rapidly.
Nalipat sa'kin ang atensyon niya nang lumapit ako. Otomatiko ang ngiti niya at
tumayo bago tignan ang kabuuan ko, mula ulo hanggang paa.
Nailang ako sa paraan ng tingin niya kaya ako na ang umiwas. I reached his hand to
touch my face and my body automatically went stilled. My heart pounded wildly with
the idea of his unwelcomed touch. My breathing stopped.
Napapikit ako ng mata ngunit nanatili sa isip ko ang papalapit niyang kamay.
"Jay! I have good news!" that sudden voice gave me a relief.
Naramdaman ko ang kamay niyang nawala kaya agad akong napabuga ng hininga.
"I like good news, Kian. What is it?"
"Take a good look at this." Kian, the man I always see with him gave him a folder.
Binuksan ito ni Jay at ang nakangiting mukha niya ay unti-unting nawala. He became
silent before I noticed his hand tightened their grip to the paper.
Jay's presence became dark.
"Finally found you." He chucked lowly. It was so scary that made me stood back.
Napalunok ako nang tumingin siya sa'kin. "W-What's on the file?" I asked and prayed
that it's nowhere connected to my husband.
"This file?" He pointed to it. "I found my new angel. Isn't this great?"
"N-New angel?" Nanginginig kong tanong ngunit sa kabila nito ay nakaramdam ako ng
ginhawa.
"Yup. That means I need to get rid of you now." Anong ibig niyang sabihin?
Naalala ko ang sinabi ni Phin. She said that this could only be my only escape but
in what way? Will he kill me now that he already found his new toy?
"P-Pero-"
"But I did promise you something. Don't worry. You can still count on it before I
deal with my father's mistress. What I promised will be done." He said. "Let's go.
We'll make it quick."
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko pero bago kami lumabas ay binigay niya muna ang files
kay Kian.
Pinakiramdaman ko ang mga kasama ko sa loob ng sasayan. I was in the middle of the
van with him on my left and a bulky man on my right. May katabi din siya sa kaliwa
niya. They were all scary. Quiet, big muscled and all stiff like a highly trained
soldier. Jay was beside me barking orders.
When I left that night, my only goal was to find the power and strength I needed to
protect my family.
I never imagine that it was in the form of Jay. He was the power I was looking for.
The only problem was that he's too much to handle.
He looked at me and smiled. He said to hold onto his promise.
Pakiramdam ko ay matatapos na ang lahat. My hope rose higher. Makakauwi na 'ko.

Malapit na. Malapit ko nang makita si Blakey.
The first one who went out the van was the one sitting beside him. Sumunod siya.
Pagbabako ay agad niya kong inakbayan.
Tirik na tirik ang araw pero ang binibigay na pakiramdam ng paligid ay madilim.
Malapit kami sa dagat dahil amuy na amoy sa hangin ang alat nito.
It was a secluded area. May mga puno ang paligid at isang malaking building ang
nasa harap namin. It's not like a building, more like an abandoned two-leveled
factory.
"They're all waiting inside."
"Sino?" I asked Jay.
"You'll see."
He guided me again and was shocked to see the inside. It was not like the outside.
Kung mukang pinabayaan ang labas, ang loob naman ay asikasong asikaso. The tiled
floor was so clean and shiny, the whole place rather.
It was like a home-a comfortable one.
"We don't have time to tour you around. I only have less than an hour to be here."
Napanguso ako sa pagkadismaya. Sayang, napakaganda ng lugar at gusto ko talagang

pagmasdan 'to.
"Don't be sad, Angel. You'll have something to look later." He chuckled.
Huminto kami sa isang malaking pintuan. His men opened it for us. Pagkabukas na
pagkabukas ng pinto ay ilang ungol ang narinig ko. I hesitated on entering but Jay
placed his hand on my back and carefully pushed me forward.
I had no choice but to enter and like the last time, I was shocked. "My supposed to
be wedding gift turned into a farewell gift."
There were three, Anita, Penelope and a man that I didn't know in the middle. Their
hands were tied behind their backs and slumped on the ground, mouth covered with
cloths.
Penelope was crying. Hindi ko sya pinansin at tinuon ang tingin kay sa kabilang
dulo.
"Anita..."She looked different than before. Yung mga mamahaling damit niya ay
napalitan ng lumang pantalon at T-shirt. No shinny jewelries decorated her neck,
wrist or fingers. Wala na rin ang make-up na dating nagpapaganda sa kanya kaya ang
mga kulubot at bakas ng stress ay kitang kita na.
Nagtama ang tingin namin. Her scared eyes turned to pleading, then shocked before
anger.
Tinapatan ko ito. Isang malamig na tingin ang binigay ko. Ang lakas talafa ng loob
niya. Nasa mabab na siya ngayon pero kung makatingin siya sa'kin ay parang hawak
niya parin ang buhay ko.
"Mapagmataas na matanda. You never change, Anita." Nagtangis ang aking bagang nang
binigyan niya ko ng isang mapangutyang tingin.
This is it. This is all I am waiting for. Ang makita siyang ganito sa harapan ko.
Isa nalang ang kulang. Kailangan niyang magbayad.
My mind was swirling with all the activities that I would do to her. I knew that
all was going to be satisfaction.
"Alright!" Jay clapped behind me. "Let's start."
Chapter 50
"Isn't it nice, Angel? Sa wakas at nakaganti ka na rin."
Tinignan ko ang tatlong taong nasa harap ko. Kapwa sila hinihingal at puro sugat sa
katawan. Resulta 'yan nang paggulpi ng mga tao ni Jay. They're like Jakie happening
again. Ayaw ko mang tanggapin sa sarili ko ay parang nasisiyahan ako sa nangyayari
sa kanila. Lahat ng awa ay naitapon na.
Halos kapusin na si Anita na tumingin sa'kin gamit ang mga matang puno ng galit. I
smirked on how helpless she was on my sight.
"Yes. I am. Very much." Halatang wala na itong lakas pero pilit pa siyang
nagpupumiglas para lamang sugurin ako. I laughed at her stupid actions.
"Order them, Angel. They are all under your command." Pagtukoy niya sa dalawang
tatlong tao niya. Each one assigned to one of them. Siya lang ang nag-uutos kanina
kung anong gagawin.
"What w-would I order them?"
He groaned. "That's a stupid question."
"She i-is s-tupid. Now and th-en." I head whipped at Penelope's direction.
I moved forward. "Do you want to go first?"
Tumawa siya ng may pangungutya at sakit dahil sa kanyang mga sugat. "No wonder
you're so pathetic and a loser. Kailangan mo pa ng tulong ng iba. Kailangan mo ng
tulong ng lahat! Dad, Terrence, Osias and now this guy. They treat you like a
porcelain doll because you are so weak and you know what?" Ngumisi siya. "People
will always be cruel to you because you are what you are. A trash."
Jay's loud laugh was heard from the background as my hands turned into fists, my
feelings boiled with anger. "I like this woman. Too bad your life depends on her
now."
"Kahit noon pa..."
"See? Even you agreed with me."
"You've always been jealous of me kahit noon pa."
"What?"
"Did you know that what is the most stupid word that has ever created? Bagay 'yan
sa bibig mo. And please don't call my daddy yours. Ang tatay mo ang ang basura sa
tabi mo."
"Don't insult my daughter you piece of-"
"Trash? Whore? Pathetic little kid? Ano pang idudugtong mo? Sadly, things that you
say doesn't affect me anymore."
Biglang tumawa ang dati niyang asawa. "Parehong pareho ka ng ama mo. Mahina at
walang kwenta. Madaling mauto. Dalawang bala lang ang kinaya niya. Sana ay
dinagdagan ko pa para natuluyan na."
Tatlo silang humalakhak. Sinasabi ko na nga ba. Tama ang aking hinala. Sila ang may
kagagawan no'n. Nag-umapaw ang galit ko pero hindi ko pinahalata.
I crossed my arms together. I made sure to let them know that I had no fear left of
them. The wheel has been turned. They need to know that I have their lives in the
palm of my hands.
They're now the weak and pathetic. The bottom of my food chain.
Tinignan ko sila isa isa. They were all looking at me like I was the worst enemy. I
smirked knowing that it's true. I was their worst enemy in their world.
Umubo ang lalaki sa dulo. Napag-alaman ko na siya pala ang tunay na ama ni
Penelope. They plotted against my father and I. Dahil don, napatignin ang mag-ina
nito sa kanya.
"As I was saying." I kicked Penelope's leg. It wasn't that hard, just enough to get
her attention.
"You were always so jealous of me. You wanted everything and everyone I have and
you Anita, you leeched onto my father just to color your body with expensive
things. Like mother like daughter and a husband to support everything that's why
you three should be together as death. No worries, there are things I've been
thinking to do to you all."
Fear crossed their eyes. Malamig ang tingin ko sa kanila. Dapat lang. Tama lang
'yan.
"One last thing to remind you, Angel. The woman is right." Tumabi si Jay sakin.
"The world is cruel. Weak will be eaten alive so in order to survive-"
"The weak must become more cruel than the world."
"You make me proud, Angel." He whispered and kissed me on the cheeks. "Order them."
"Gladly." I said. "What's their name?"
"Left to right. AJ, Dave and Tom."
"How about him?" Turo ko sa ama ni Penelope.
"Aguilar."
"Then Aguilar is first."
All my doubts and morals were thrown away. I started ordering his men like mine.
Like I've been doing this for a long time.
I made the two watched as AJ beat the hell out of him. Kitang kita ko ang sakit at
awa sa tingin ni Penelope sa kanyang ama pero si Anita, sa tingin ko ay wala siyang
nararamdaman na kahit na ano sa dating asawa.
He was now covered in blood. Penelope was crying, pleading AJ to stop but nothing
was enough. Nagmamakaawa siya kay AJ na dapat sa akin. Ang gusto ko ay sa akin niya
ipakitang mahina siya at humihingi ng tulong. Mas lalo akong nainis.
Pinatigik ko si AJ. Relief was seen on her eyes and I hated it. "Your turn
Penelope. Tom will be your partner." I said with my devious smile. Nanginig siya.
Now Anita showed the emotions face. Takot, galit ay pangamba. Nakakatuwa.
Mula sa pagkakasalpak niya sa sahig ay hinatak siya ni Tom. She was pleading now.
Anita too and Aguilar was on his stomach, hugging the ground.
"Look at you both pleading." I mocked.
"Walang hiya ka, Leanna!"
I giggled before turning my eyes to Jay. "Is it okay if the floor got wet?"
"Sure. Go ahead." Parang wala pakealam niyang sabi. He's busy reading the files
over and over again.
Hindi ko na nga siya iistorbohin. His eyes really nailed to that file.
He has his own game to play.
"Drown her."
Sumunod si Tom at pinaupo siya sa upuan. She tried to escape but it's funny how she
just tried.
Nakahiga siya sa upuan. Nakatalia ang kamay. She was shouting as well as her
mother. Tom placed a towel over her face. Dati nagtataka ako kung bakit nilalagyan
pa ng bimpo bago buhusan. Dahil sa nakikita ko, ngayon alam ko na.
It's to cover the eyes as well as for the water to goes slowly for torture.
It never left my eyes until she's almost dying. After that, si Anita naman. The
main event.
I wanted to take things slowly with her. I wanted to savior the moment, her
torture.
"Brand her like a pig."
They will remember this day.
The day the weak becomes powerful and cruel.
Parang isang kanto ang abot ng sigaw ni Anita nang lumapat ang mainit na metal sa
likod niya. I was not sure where Dave got that thing they used to brand animals but
looking at the whole place, the materials for torture were complete. Hindi na ko
nagtanong pa.
May pumasok sa pinto at dumiretso kay Jay para bumulong. Tumango lang ito at
ngumiti. I continued watching the current show in my front.
"Times up, Angel."
"It's almost an hour already."
"Yup. As much as I want to enjoy the slow torture, we have to stop."
My eyes darted on the result. Nagkamalay na si Aguilar gano'n din si Anita pero ang
anak nila ay nakahandusay parin sa sahig, mahimbing ang tulog.
The two were just too weak to move. That's good.

"End this."
"Huh?"
Inabutan siya ng baril ni AJ. Natutok ang tingin ko do'n kasabay ng pagkabog ng
dibdib ko. Kinasa niya ang baril at inabot sa'kin.
He's not expecting me to-
"Kill them."
"K-Kill?" Bumalik lahat ng takot ko. "I c-can't."
"What the fvck, Angel. Just end their lives. This is what you've always wanted,
right?"
"B-But-"
"You're fvking stuttering." He pointed out with cold and emotionless stares.
He held my shaking hands and placed the gun, forcing my hands to close it.
I can't. I just can't.
Iba na 'to sa gusto ko. Nakaganti na ko sa kanila. Tama na 'yon.
Pumwesto siya sa likod ko. He lifted our hands, both holding the gun. Pilit kong
hinihila ang kamay ko.
"No. Stop, Jay." Tears started to fell. I don't want this. I don't.
"The game will end when someone dies. Who will it be?" He pointed the gun at Anita.
"Eeny.." then to Penelope before to Aguilar. He's making it a child's play.
"Meeny..."
"Miny..." Someone help... Mariin akong pumikit.
"Moe!"
A shot was fired. My eyes darted open. Bagsak sa sahig si Aguilar at duguan.
Did I do it? Did I really kill him? Oh no. I k-killed him.
Napabuga ako ng hininga at muntik na kong matumba nang lumayo si Jay sa'kin.
Nahihirapan akong huminga.
"Someone's dead. Now give my wife back."

EPILOGUE
I cried nonstop. The image of a dead man's body covered in blood never leaving my
head. It was all on me. He was dead because of me.
My conscience was killing me. I didn't want him dead. I just wanted them to suffer.
The arms around me tightened, intending to give me warmth and comfort but it still
didn't make me feel any better. I could still see everything.
I killed a husband, a father. I killed a human.
"Tama na, cuddle cakes."
"I-I killed...h-him."
"No you did not."
"I did." I almost yelled. Blakey pulled the trigger but it's still my fault. He was
killed because of me.
He sighed tiredly before kissing my forehead. "You have too much. Let's go home. Do
you want that?"
Mabilis akong tumango. "Leaving already?"
Nang mapalingon ako kay Jay at nakita ang kanyang ngiti ay agad kong binaon ang
mukha ko sa dibdib ni Blakey. Humigpit ang yakap ko sa bewang niya.
I could also hear Anita's voice calling for Blakey but he didn't pay attention to
it.
"Yes and you can't stop us."
"You sure about that, Alcazar? I just let you and your men in here after all of you
acted like insects lurking outside my territory. Do you think I'll let you all out
smoothly?"
I shivered and whimpered in fear.
I was terrified with the man that helped me. I have someone lives disappear thru
this guy. Pa'nbo nalang kung may masamang mangyari kay Blakey?
No. He couldn't do that. I wouldn't allow him to do that. I needed Blakey away from
here.
"U-uwi na tayo, p-please, Blakey..."
His tired smile and slow nodding showed some assurance. Guminhawa ang pakiramdam ko
pero may takot parin. Hindi tuluyang mawawala ang takot ko hanggat andito parin
kami.
"Fine you can go. The game's fun while it lasted." I heard him sighed. "Make sure
that you're out in five or my men will rain bullets through each one of you."
Iginayak ako ni Blakey palabas.
"Bye, Angel." Pasimple ko siyang nilingon sa aming likuran habang sumisinghot.
He was smirking at me while waiving his hand. Anita's voice still on the background
while the two members of her family were still on the ground.
"Could someone make that bitch quiet!" he shouted. Inalis ko na agad ang tingin ko
sa kanila. Just only the right time before Drew stopped walking in front of Anita.
Nakatulog ako sa byahe. I was totally drained. Physically and mentally. Paggising
ko ay nasa kama na ko. Umaga na at wala si Blakey.
That meant that I slept throughout the afternoon and night.
I wanted to talk to Blakey. He was quiet the whole time yesterday and I could feel
his stress and disappointment. I wanted to say sorry but I didn't have the energy
to do so.
Thinking about all my stupid actions, I started crying again.
Damn these tears. Para silang hindi maubos ubos. My head was even spinning and I
really felt awful.
Tapos bigla kong naalala ang kalagayan ko. I was pregnant. I was carrying our
child.
Sobra akong natuwa sa naalala. Pinahid ko ang mga luha. Pero kasabay ng kasiyahang
'yon ay ang pag-aalala.
I was not sure if Blakey would get mad or happy.
I was sure it was the latter but with what happened I knew that he wouldn't feel
just the positive.
Bumukas ang pinto at niluwa ang aking asawa. Hindi ko alam kung pa'no uumpisahan o
kung ano ang sasabihin.
"I..ahh-"
"I have breakfast. Kumain ka na." Now I was positive that he's mad with how his
eyes and voice were cold.
He was distant and it hurts me.
Nilapag niya ang tray ng pagkain sa maliit na lamesa at naglakad palabas.
"I'm pregnant." Mabilis kong sabi na ikinatigil niya.
He slowly turned to me and my heart beat like a wild ranging animal.
"I know."
Pa'no niya-
"He told me." He whispered.
Tumingin siya sa kawalan at ang katahimikan na namutawi sa paligid ay nakakabingi.

Si Jay pa ang nagsabi sa kanya. I started crying again, my hands covering my face.
Does that mean that he's mad? That he wouldn't accept the baby?
The bed dipped beside me before my body was pulled in a hard chest. My body was
immediately surrounded with the familiar warmth that promised security and haven.
"You always cry."
"I-I'm sorry."
He sighed. "Saying sorry became your habit."
I know dahil wala na 'kong magawa kung hindi ang umiyak at himingi ng paumanhin.
"Take care of our baby by taking care of yourself, Lee."
Parang may sariling isip ang mga luha kong tumigil para sa sumunod sa sinabi niya.
He lifted my face with his fingers holding my chin. "Why did you do it?" He
seriously asked. "Dahil sa mga nangyari, isa lang ang nasa isip ko. You don't trust
me enough to protect you."
Hindi ko alam kung bakit ako biglang kinabahan dahil sa mga tingin niya.
"You left that night because you don't believe in my capability to help you that's
why you go searching for someone who can. I'm not trusted by my wife and it hurts.
This is the most painful a husband can take. Without trust, our relationship is
doomed. The thing is when you're in love and married, you stick together and
trust, put your whole faith on your partner. We are a team, Leanna and I couldn't
thing any reason why you don't trust me enough. Asawa mo 'ko and I don't understand
how you could put less trust in me."
"I know it's my entire fault, Blakey. Natakot lang ako. I was alone and I felt like
the world was against me. Nag-iisa ako. Sinabi ko sa'yo na nakita ko sila. That I
saw Anita on that night."
"And I believed you."
"Yes but I didn't feel it!" I said, my eyes showing hurt. "Ang naramdaman ko noon
ay parang sinabi mo lang 'yon to pacify me. To make me stop saying it. To make me
quiet, sit down and not go in the way. I want justice and I tend to have it
whatever it takes."
"And where does it take you, Leanna?" Napahilamos siya ng palad sa mukha. "I don't
want to say this but your impatience and anger took lives."
OSIAS
Natahimik siya saglit na parang nagulat sa sinabi ko. Napayuko siya. A slit of pain
and guilt cut my chest seeing her like this. Masakit sa'kin ang ginawa niya. I felt
incompetent. Not worthy as her husband.
"It really is my fault." Bulong niya nang nakayuko. Nag-umpisa na naman siyang
umiyak.
I should be consoling her but I couldn't help but to see how beautiful she was. She
could be in rug and mud but she would still be the most beautiful sight.
No words could ever describe her. Heck! You could paint her or took a picture but
nothing can really see the true her. I could tell a thousand reasons why I love
this woman.
"Don't blame yourself, Leanna. Everything's over and I will always forgive you no
matter what."
Niyakap ko siya ng mahigpit na parang aalis ulit siya pag binitawan ko. Iyak lang
siya ng iyak habang inaalo ko siya. Kung hindi ko pa siya pinilit kumain ay hindi
siya kakain.
Ang mas masakit pa ay makitang na-trauma siya dahil sa nangyari. Ayaw niya nang
lumabas pero napilit ko siyang lumabas dahil sa check-up niya. Hindi siya mapakali
pag maraming tao at ayaw niyang nawala ako sa paningin niya.
Gusto ko ring laging nasa tabi niya kaya okay din 'yon. I just hope that nothing
gets in our way again.
"How's the company going?"
"Company's doing great, dad. We sealed Nickshaw Deal." Dad nodded in approval
before placing his cup of coffee down.
Uminom naman ako ng sa'kin bago kami nakarinig ng mga sigaw.
"Daddy!" Dad looked and stood up while I place my cup before looking over my
shoulder.
I saw my girls running and I couldn't help but the smile to break out my face.
Tumayo narin ako at binuka ang aking mga braso. I welcomed this girl who got my
heart wrapped around her hands.
Though she's always been giving me a hard time ever since, I love this one lady
who's been giving me kisses on my cheeks.
"I miss you, daddy." Napalingon ako sa asawa kong yakap yakap ang kanyang ama. They
we're smiling and greeting each other.
Little hands cupped my face that made my eyes diverted to the person in my arms.
"I miss you, my little Tomorrow."
"I miss you too, daddy." Lumaki ang ngiti ko sa lambing nang kanyang boses gaya ng
kung pa'no batiin ni Leanna ang kanyang ama.
Si Tomorrow Oshiel. Ang pinakamamahal naming anak. They day she was born four years
ago was the day we felt so much happiness. I thought that my heart was already full
but the moment I first saw her, I never knew that she filled a place in my heart
that I never knew was empty.
Her caramel eyes are the most wonderful jewel. Her little feet made the biggest
footprints in our hearts. The laughter she makes are the most serenading music
every heard. Her touch and hands can make every worry disappear in an instant.
She was our greatest blessing.
The fulfillment of promise, our own Tomorrow.
And this person who shares my heart with her mother calls me daddy.
"How's school, baby?"
"It was amazing and I got three stars! Look!" Ipinagmayabang niya sa'kin ang
tatlong star sa kanyang braso.
"Ang galing naman ng baby ko." I chuckled and kissed her forehead.
May yumakap sa bewang ko ang alam na alam ng buong pagkatao ko kung sino ito. Her
warmth and the electricity that she always gives me whenever our skin touches are
registered in my entire body and soul.
She gave me a slight kiss. Our lips barely touched but it made my heart skipped a
beat in an instant.
"Kumain na ba kayo, Leanna?" Rinig kong tanong ni daddy. Hindi kasi mawala ang
tingin ko sa aking mag-ina.
Napasimangot ako nang umiling siya. "Sana dumaan muna kaso sa coffee shop para
magmeryenda bago umuwi."
Sinundo niya kasi si Oro sa eskwelan "We want to eat with you and daddy. Diba,
Oro?"
Oro is what she calls our baby girl when she's being sweet and playful with her.
Tomorrow's real nickname is Row. She really has her own way when it comes to
nicknames.
"Yes! I wanna eat with daddy and granddaddy."
Dad chuckled. "Alright. Let's feed our little girls, Osias. Mine can't go hungry
lalo na ngayon."
Yup. Lalo na ngayon at tatlong bwan na siyang buntis.
-----
"What's bothering, my wife?" hinalikan ko siya sa noo.
Her head was resting on my arms as we cuddled in bed before sleeping. I felt her
skin shivered habang Hinahaplo haplos ko ang kanyang tyan kung sa'n nagpapahinga
ang ikalawang anghel namin. I smiled.
I hope it's a boy this time. We already have a little Leanna and now I want to see
little Osias running around the house. I will teach him all he needs to learn.
I will raise him everything on how to protect his mother and sister whenever I'm
not around.
Maganda rin naman kung babae. That means that we need to keep trying until we got
it.
"I was just thinking..." she pushed body up a little bit, positioning her body
sideways.
"I was just thinking about Anita and Penelope."
Kumunot ang noo ko. "Why? It's been almost five years."
"I know. I know but..." She sat up straight, her hands fiddling. "It's been a long
time and I want to talk to them. I think I'm ready to forgive them."
I opened my arms to her. She smiled and snuggled back with me on bed. She let out a
contentment sigh after settling in a comfortable position. I, on the other hand
took a whip of her addicting smell mixing with after shower.
"Don't worry about them, cuddle cakes. I'm sure wherever they are, they are both
happy and content with their lives."
Tumango siya. "You promise?"
"Yes, cuddle cakes. I promise."

Ilang minuto pa ang nakalipas ay naramdaman ko na ang marahan niyang paghinga.
Nakatulog na siya.
Inayos ko ang pagkakahiga niya at kinumutan. I gave her a kiss goodnight while I
went down to have a shot of whiskey.
Naalala ko ang mga nangyari nang araw na 'yon. I was not certain with what I said
to Leanna. I was not sure kung nasa'n o masaya ba sila. The only thing I knew was
what totally happened that day.
It was a week after I got Leanna from Jay. Iniwan namin silang mag-ina kay Jay.
Nakipagkita ako kay Jay kinabukasan kaya bumalik ako do'n. Patay na si Anita. She
was noisy and Jay had to do something about it according to him.
Penelope was still alive but weak. Binigay siya sa'kin ni Jay. Tinago ko siya
pansamantala. Isang linggo matapos no'n ay nagpa chek-up si Leanna. Picture palang
ng ultrasound ni Row ay alam ko na ang gagawin.
I promised myself that no one will ever hurt my family in away starting that day so
I had to do what I had to do.
Remove what's left.
"Please, Osias don't do this. I'm your best friend. Please..."
Pumikit ako at bumuga ng hininga. "I'm sorry, Pen but I need to do this. Leanna's
pregnant now. She's carrying our baby and I won't let what happened with our first
happen again."
Napunta ang tingin niya sa kamay ko. Lalo bumalakit ang takot at kaba sa kanyang
mukha. Nakakulong siya dito sa maliit na kwartong ito kaya alam kong nahihirapan na
siya. This is also for her.
"Magtatago ako. I'll fly to state. I...I will never go back here and let her see
even a strand of my hair."
"I told you not to create connection to your parents. Kung nakinig kalang sa'na
sa'kin." Malamig kong sabi.
"It's not my fault. They contacted me and she is my mother pero wala akong
kinalaman sa ginawa nila ni dad. You know how much I love dad, Osias. I'm your best
friend. Hindi ko siya kayang saktan o kahit na si Leanna. Please believe me."
"I believe you." Nagliwanag ang mukha niya sa pag-asa. "But I can't take the risk.
Your existence might get in the way. Kailangan kong makasigurado."
Inangat ko ang kamay ko at tinutok sa kanya ang baril. Ang matinis niyang tili ay
napalitan ng putok ng baril na kumitil sa kanyang buhay.
I was not proud of what I did. Aaminin ko, siya ang unang kinuhanan ko ng buhay.
Her father was alive when we left him. Pinabayaan nila Jay mamatay.
I'm very professional on torture and scaring people. Iba ang pagpatay pero wala
akong pagsisising nararamdaman.
No one will ever know what happened that day instead me and Andrew. Hindi ko alam
kung nasa'n na sila ngayon o masaya ba sila dahil hindi ko sigurado kung sa taas ba
sila napunta o sa kabila. One thing I knew was for sure.
I will keep doing it again just to make sure that my family's safe.
Author's note
Gusto ko pong magpasalamat sa lahat ng nagbasa ng kwento ni Leanna at Osias. Alam

kong maraming flaws at plot holes ang mga storya ko pero binabasa niyo parin kaya
maraming salamat po.
Alam ko may mga naghihintay na maging sobrang cold ni Leanna gaya ni Alonna ang
kaso lang naisip ko, hindi lahat ng nakaramdam ng pagmamalupit at pangagaliwa ay
nagiging gano'n. Na-trigger lang ang konting pagbabago niya nang masakyan si daddy
niya.
Minsan, mas masakit pag taong minamahal mo ang nasaktan.
May extra chapter pa after this and then officially signing off na. :(
Hindi ako makapaniwalang tapos na 'to e ang tagal kong mag-update, Lol.
Magkita ulit tayo sa mga susunod kong stories.
P.S.
Si JJ may kwento siya kaso inaayos ko pa ang plot. :D

Special Chapter : Selfish Love
Dala dala ang bag at baunan ko, maaga akong umalis ng bahay. Inutusan kasi ako ni
Mama na dalhin kay Papa ung pamalit niyang damit. May hika si Papa kaya kailangang
hindi siya matuyuan ng pawis sa likod. Baka sumpungin.
Isang family driver ang papa ko. Malaki ang sahod niya kaya nga ayaw niyang umalis
do'n. Isa pa, mabait daw ang mga amo niya.
Buti naman kung gano'n. Fifty plus na si Papa kaya ayaw ko na siyang magtrabaho.
Dapat nasa bahay nalang sila ni Mama. Pareho na silang senior citizen. Ang kaso,
grade 11 palang ako at si Ricky naman ay grade 10. Mas matanda lang ako sa kanya ng
isang taon.
Di bale. Pinapangako ko sa sarili ko na ang propesyon ko ay ung malaki ang sahod.
Pinagpag ko ang palda ng aking uniporme bago umalis ng bahay. Kailangan ko nang
magmadali dahil baka ma-late ako sa school. Hindi pwede dahil may exam kami ngayon
sa first subject.
"Wow..." Mangha kong sambit. Isang malaking gate ang bumungad sa'kin.
Sinilip silip ko pa ang loob pero sa sobrang laki ng gate ay wala akong makita.
Hindi ko rin alam kung sa'n ako pwedeng mag-door bell.
Pa'no kaya 'to? Kumatok nalang kaya ako? O kaya hintayin na may lumabas?
Baka ma-late na 'ko. Tsk.
"Who are you?" Mabilis akong napalingon sa pinanggalingan ng boses na 'yon.
Marahan akong napahugot ng hininga nang makita siya. Tindig siyang nakatayo malapit
sa isang sasakyan habang nakapasok ang mga kamay sa bulsa. Ni hindi ko man lang
namalayan na may dumating na sasakyan.
Napakagwapo niya sa paraang ng kanyang pagtayo. Nailang ako sa tingin niya habang
nakakunot ang kanyang noo. Lumapit siya at parang nawala ang lahat ng hangin sa
katawan ko kasabay ng malakas na pagpintig ng puso ko.
"Why are you outside our house? Do you need something?"
Nakuha ang atensyon niya sa pagtunog ng kanyang cellphone. Pinanood ko lang siya
habang sinasagot niya 'yon.
"Yes, Pen. Don't worry, I won't be late... I promise, okay? Yeah... Fifteen
minutes."
Wow... Ang ganda ng boses niya. Matangkad din siya. Hanggang balikat lang ako.
Napatigin siya muli sa'kin. Humigpit ang kapit ko sa baunan ko.
I was just standing there admiring him. The next thing I knew was this handsome man
pulling me until I found myself inside his car.
"S-San mo 'ko dadalhin?"
"Tinatanong kita kanina but you won't answer me so I thought asking you would be
useless. Ako na ang nag-decide para sa'yo. You will come to me to my friend's
school."
"Ha?"
Napakamot siya sa noo. Ang gwapo talaga niya. "You see... My friend's joining a
pageant and I promised to be there but I don't know the way to her school. Would
you mind telling me the way?"
"P-Pero may pasok ako..." Nauutal kong sabi.
Tinignan niya ang damit katawan ko. Grabe! Bakit ba ko kinakabahan? Ano ba 'tong
nararamdaman ko.
"Sorry. I didn't notice. How about just telling me the way?"
"H-Hindi sasamahan nalang kita." Nagliwanag ang mukha niya at napangiti sa sinabi
ko.
"Talaga? Salamat! Don't worry, I'll treat you lunch." Pilit akong ngumiti.
Gusto ko namang batukan ang sarili ko dahil hindi ko alam kung bakit ko nasabi
'yon. Napabuntong hininga ako at napatingin sa orasan ng kanyang sasakyan. Wala na.
late na naman din ako at paniguradong hindi na 'ko hahayaan ng prof kong mag-take
ng exam. Masungit pa naman 'yon. Hayaan mo na. Babawi nalang ako sa susunod.
"Are you sure you know the way?"
Napakagat ako ng labi. "Ang totoo... hindi."
"What?"
Bigla siyang nagpreno ng sasakyan. Napahawak ako sa dibdib sa kaba. Nahihiya akong
tumingin sa kanya. Nang sinabi niya ung pangalan ng school kanina. Pamilyar sa'kin
dahil kilala itong paaralang ng mga mayayaman pero hindi ko talaga alam kung sa'n
ang eksaktong lugar. Hindi ko nalang nasabi kasi nagmamadali siyang umalis.
"Are you serious?"
"Kasi... Hindi ako pamilyar papunta do'n."
"Bakit di mo sinabi kanina?" Lalo akong nahiya dahil nakita ko ang pag-aalala sa
itsura niya. "The program's starting and Pen's not answering."
"Anong oras ba?"
"10AM."
Past eleven na. Late na late na siya. "Sorry..." Paumanhin ko.
Napatingin siya sa'kin at iniwasan ko 'yon dahil sa hiya. Yung bag at baunan ko
gusto kong yakapin ng mahigpit.
Narinig ko siyang bumuntong hininga. "I can't go anymore."
"Sandali lang. Lalabas ako at magtatanong."
He sighed again. "'Wag na. There's no use. Wala na kong aabutan."
"Pasensya na."
"It's cool. I'm a bit hungry. Can we eat that?"
Sinundan ko ang tingin niya sa baunan ko."Oo. Sige." Buti nalang pala at nagbabaon
ako araw-araw.
"Let's eat there." Turo niya sa parke. Tumango ako at lumabas kami ng sasakyan.
Konti lang ang tao. Karamihan mga nanay o yaya na may dalang mga bata. Weekday
ngayon kaya siguro gano'n.
Hindi ko maiwasang makaramdam ng kilig habang pinagmamasdan siyang kainin ang

niliuto kong kanin at ulam. Magkaharap kami na nakaupo sa bench. Isang batong
lamesa ang nasa gitna namin. May kasama akong gwapong lalaki habang kumakain sa
parke. Hindi ba nagde-date na kami nito.
Oo nga. This is considered a date.
Nakakatuwa.
Pero ano nga bang pangalan niya. Nagde-date na kami hindi ko pa alam kung anong
pangalan niya.
"Ano nga pala ang-"
"What were you doing outside our house?"
"Ha?"
Pinunasan niya ang kanyang bibig ng panyo bago tumingin sa'kin. Grabe lang. Madali
akong ma turn-off sa lalaking may panyo dahil sa tingin ko masyado silang mahinhin
pero siya hindi. Mas lalo pa siyang gumwapo sa paningin ko.
"May hinahanap ka ba sa'min? Panay ang tingin mo sa loob..." Nakatingin lang ako sa
mga mata niya.
Para akong nahihipnotismo sa anyo niya. Gosh! Bakit ganito ang puso ko. Nagwawala
sila. Nakakapanghina ng katawan ang isang katulad niya. Sino ba siya? Gustong gusto
kong malaman kung sino siya.
"You're not planning to ransack our house, do you?" Mabilis akong umiling.
Binaba niya ang tinidor at tumawa ng malakas. "You should have seen your face.
Wait. Maybe you like to live on that house. Gusto mo bang do'n nalang tumira?"
Napanguso ako. Nilapag ko ang kutsarang gamit ko.
"Papa ko ang driver do'n. Ubusin mo na yan. Kailagan ko pang pumasok."
Nawala ang ngiti niya. "Gano'n ba? Sorry. I'll take you to school."
Ako naman ang napangiti. "Okay lang. Kasalanan ko rin kung bakit hindi mo naabutan
ung pageant."
"Masarap ang tong ulam. Anong tawag dito?"
"Mechado."
"Mechado..." Pag-uulit niya. "Did you cook this?" Aniya habang inuubos ang pagkain
gamit ang tinidor.
"Oo" Gutom pa 'ko kasi pang sakin lang talaga ang baon ko pero hindi ko kayang
mabusog do'n dahil mas nakakabusog ang itsura niyang maganang kainin ang ginawa ko.
"This is good." Palihim akong napangiti.
Parang tumumbling ang puso ko sa tuwa dahil sa sinabi niiya. Gusto ko rin no'n.
Gusto ko siyang ipagluto at makita ang magana niyang pagkain ulit.
Hinatid niya 'ko sa school pagkatapos. He stood out on that place. Makinang ang
sasakyan niya at pang mayaman ang ayos niya kaya ilang mga estudyante do'n ay
napatingin sa kanya.
"Thanks for everything. Bye for now. Sana magkita ulit tayo tapos matikman ko ulit
ang luto mo."
Sana nga. Ipapanalangin ko 'yon ng husto sa Diyos.
Kahit lumipas na ang panahon ay hindi ko makalimutan ang lalaking nakilala ko noong
araw na 'yon. Ang sabi ni papa ay bumalik na daw sya sa states para tapusin ang
highschool niya.
Gustong gusto kong makita siya ulit. Inaamin kong gusto ko siya. Minahal ko na siya
noong araw na 'yon. Nagsisi ako dahil hindi ko nalaman ang pangalan niya.
Pinagbuti ko ang pagluluto ko para pag nakita ko siya, matikman niya ulit ang mga
ihahanda ko.
Marami nang nangyari habang naghihintay ako sa kanya. Isa na do'n ang pagkakakulong
ni papa hanggang sa mamatay siya sa kulungan.
Ang hindi namin inaasahan ay ang nagpakulong sa kanya ay ang asawa ng amo niya ng
maraming taon. Namatay ang si Mr Alcazar dahil sa aksidente. Ang sabi ni papa ay
inatake siya ng hika kaya hindi siya nakapagmaneho ng maayos.
Ang mas masakit ay ang balitang namatay siya sa loob ng kulungan dahil inatake sa
puso. Ang hirap tanggapin no'n. Nagluksa kami ng mahabang panahon lalo na si mama.
Sa sobrang lungkot ni mama ay nagkasakit siya, namayat at nanghina. Si Ricky ay

tumigil ng isang taon para alagaan si mama. Graduating ako no'n kaya hindi pwedeng
tumigil.
Nagtrabaho kami ni Ricky. Pinatigil ko siya at pinag-aral ulit nang nagkakuha ako
ng trabaho sa isang malaking kumpanya bilang assistant sa umpisa hanggang naging
official legal adviser.
Lumipat ako ng kumpanya at natanggap bilang company lawyer ng isang malaking

kumpanya na pagmamay-ari ng San Roman.
It was the best decision of my life because it was where I met him again. The boy
who made me felt amazing. He turned into a man now. A lawyer just like me.
Osias Blaise Alcazar.
Nagtanong si mama tungkol sa bagong trabaho ko kaya nasabi ko sa kanya ang tungkol
kay Osias.
"Iwasan mo ang lalaking 'yon. Jackie. Naiintindihan mo ba!?"
"Pero mama..."
"Ate ano ka ba? Ang pamilya nila ang may dahilan kung bakit namatay si papa."
"Hindi niya kasalanan 'yon, Ricky."
"Pero ang mama niya ang may dahilan kung bakit nakulong ang papa mo. Nagmakaawa
kaming 'wag niyang ituloy pero pinakulong niy ana si Danilo na papa mo."
Pinilit kong sundin si mama dahil muntik na siyang mahimatay sa pag-uusap na 'yon
pero kahit anong pilit ko, hindi ko kaya.
Pinakiramdaman ko si Osias kung kilala niya 'ko. Ang sakit isipin na hindi niya na
'ko matandaan. Habang ako ay hindi siya maalis sa aking isip, siya naman ay hindi
ako binigyan ng espasyo kahit nalang sa konting bahagi ng isip niya.
Ginawa ko ang lahat para mapansin niya 'ko. I tried flirting with him, dressed
nicely and even cooked for him just so that he would remember me but nothing
happened.
Hindi niya 'ko nakilala kahit masarap ang luto ko. Ang mas masakit pa...
I found out that he's married.
Umiwas ako. This time, mas pinilit ko. Lagi akong nagha-half day, hindi pumapasok
sa trabaho para lang hindi siya makita. Mas naasar pa 'ko dahil laging sinasabi ni
mama at Ricky na tama ang desisyon ko.
Pero bakit parang hindi.
Mas lalong sumasakit ang puso ko. Parang unti unti akong nawawalan ng buhay.
I wanted Osias to love me. To make me his woman even if I had to share.
That day, I made up my mind.
Right or wrong... I would do anything for him to love me.
I stooped low by drugging him and using Mark. May gusto sa'kin si Mark kaya
tinulungan niya 'ko. Madali lang 'yon.
Hindi ako nagsisising may nangyari sa'min noong gabing 'yon. Tinanggap ko ang galit
niya dahil do'n pero naging masaya ko nang may mabuo. Si Jupiter.
Naging maayos ang lahat. Pinatira niya 'ko sa malaking bahay kung sa'n ko siya
unang nakita, kinain niya ung mga luto ko at may anak kami. Ramdam ko naman na ayaw
niya sa mga ginagawa ko pero wala akong pake. Kahit na sinunod niya ang pangalan ng
dati niyang asawa sa anak namin.
Ang mga pangarap na pinanghahawakan ko simula noong makita ko siya ay natupad na.
Duamting ang araw na sobrang kinatakutan ko. Ang matapos ang lahat. Namatay si
Jupiter dahil sa'min. Ang sakit pala no'n. Sobrang sakit.
Pinaalis ako ni Osias sa bahay niya pero hindi ko pumayag. Kahit sinabihan niya
kong desperado at makapal ang mukha, okay lang. Kahit tinakwil ako ng pamilya ko,
okay lang. Basta hindi siya mawala sa'kin.
Umalis si Osias sa bahay. Naiwan akong mag-isa dahil umalis din ang mga kasambahay.
Ano naman? Nakatira parin ako dito at alam kong babalik si Osias.
Ibabalik ko ang lahat.
Pumasok ako sa kumpanya niya. Kinonsensya ko siya at sinisi sa pagkamatay ni

Jupiter kaya ito pumayag. Alam kong mahal na mahal niya ang aming anak. Si Jupiter
lang ang anak niya.
Ang akala ko okay na hanggang sa bumalik si Leanna.
Nasira ang lahat ng pinaghirapan ko pero alam kong may pag-asa pa.
One night, Osias called me to talk about one of our client's case. Do'n niya ginawa
ang meeting sa restaurant-hotel na laging meeting place sa mga clients namin.
I was shocked and happy when he told me that he booked a room for us. Akala ko ayon
na. Na babalikan niya na 'ko pero hindi pala.
He said he sold the house and I only have weeks to leave the house and find a new
one. How cruel could he get?
That night I was kidnapped. I thought it was Osias. It was a shocker to know that
it was Leanna. I was glad that they did not kill me but I was thrown out like a
trash.
Wala akong mapuntahan. Ayokong maubos ang naipon ko dahil sa pagbili ng bagong
bahay para lang sa'kin. Hindi masayang mag-isa sa bahay isa pa, pinalaki akong
hindi gastador at may panghihinayang sa mga perang inuubos.
Ayokon gumastos ng milyon kaya bumalik ako sa bahay.
After that night, I decided to give up.
To give up my love that brought nothing but pain and misery.
Talo na sa umpisa palang pero pinilit ko lang.
Para akong nagising sa panaginip nang araw na bumalika ko sa bahay at nagmakaawang

tanggapin nila ulit ako ni mama. Naalala ko ang araw na una ko itong ginawa. Pati
ung pangalawa nang malaman nilang buntis ako. Hindi nila ako tinaggap noon pero
umaasa akong tatanggapin nila sa pangatlong pagkakataon.
Ricky pitied me but my mother's heart was as cold as an ice.
Walang tumanggap sa'kin. Iniwanan nila akong lahat.
Wala na kong babalikan kaya umalis ako ng bansa. Iniwan ko lahat ng sakit at mga
pangit ng karanasan.
"Kamusta ka na, anak? Happy birthday... Ang tagal ka nang hindi binisita ni mommy.
Alam kong masaya ka na diyan sa langit. Patawarin mo sana ako, anak. I'm sorry,
Jupiter. I'm sorry..." Bulong ko sa hangin habang pinagmamasdan ang lapida ng aking
anak.
Limang taon na ang nakakaraan. Limang taon na rin siya dapat. Kung hindi lang ako
naging pabaya, buhay pa sana siya.
Ilang oras akong nanatili sa simenteryo. Iniisip na sa pananatili ko ng matagal ay

makakabawi ako. Hindi lang buhay ko at ng ilang tao ang nasira ko dahil sa
makasariling pagmamahal, pati narin ang buhay ng anak ko.
Tumayo ako sa pagkakaupo sa damuhan. Pinagpag ko muna ang mga dumi sa damit ko bago
umalis ngunit sa pagtalikod ko sa puntok ng aking anak ay ang pagharap ko sa
nakaraan.
"Jackie?"
Osias stood in front of me. We were both shocked to see each other. Napadako ang
tingin ko sa karga niyang bata.
"Osias..."
"Kamusta ka na, Jackie?"
Sasagot na sana ako nang magsalita ang bata. "Who's she, daddy?"
"She's your Ate Leigh's mother, Row."
May sasabhin sana ako nang dumating si Leanna. Agad akong napatingin sa malaki
niyang tyan.
Binaba ni Osias ang anak niya para alalayan ito. Kapwa sila napatingin at napangiti
sa isa't isa. Simple gestures that show love and compassion to each other.
Isang bagay na hindi ko kayang makuha noon.
Naramdaman ko ang marahang paghila sa palda ko. "Hello, Ate Leigh's mother. My name
is Tomorrow Oshiel Alcazar. I am four years old."
"Hello... I'm Jackie."
"It's been a long time, Jackie."
Tumingin ako kay Leanna at napangiti. Yung ngiting totoo. Yung walang inggit, poot
o pagkukunwari.
Ang akala ko hindi ako handang harapin sila. Ang akala ko makakaramdam ako ng sakit
pero wala. I felt something inside me was released from the pain.
"It's so nice to see you again, Leanna."
May lalong lumakit ang ngiti ko. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam.
Finally... I'm free from my selfish love.
THE SCORNED WIFE SIGNING OFF...

The Scorned Wife

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

The Scorned Wife

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

The Scorned Wife

Words from her father.

Man! What a dïck move!

Nasa bahay niya...

I went home to see her but... I was too late.

Nangyari na ang lahat.

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

Magtatanong narin ako....

Mahabang chapter pero mga once a week na update?

Para to sa lahat ng stories ko.

Full of twist. Full of questions. Common sense is the key.

It has been a long time.

Tatlong buwan matapos kaming ikasal ay sumabak na ko sa pagiging militar. I had a

Someone's excited to see me.

"I miss you." She whispered.

"I miss you too, Penelope." I said back.

She giggled and I put her down. "Kiss daw, Oz."

"Alam mong ayoko ng mga nicknames diba?"

"She's so hardheaded. Ako nang kukuha sa kanya." Penelope offered.

Umiling ako. "Huwag na... I'll go get her."

"I miss you..." I said truthfully.

"N-na miss din... k-kita." Garalgal at mabagal niyang bulong.

My smile got broader at mabilis na dinampian ng halik ang labi niya.

"A-alis ka... u-ulit?"

"I was planning to take Lee out for dinner."

"Ganu'n ba? Pero sayang naman ang pinahanda namin."

Kinausap ko muna siya at kinamusta habang pumapasok si mama kasunod si Penelope.

"B-Blakey..." She whispered, not letting go of my hand. Parang takut na takot

"Lilipat lang ako sa harap, Lee."

I heard someone snorted and saw Penelope rolling her eyes.

"Ang akala ko ba no nicknames? E bakit siya?"

Hindi ko namalayan na nakubabawan ko na siya. "Whispering a man's name while I'm

Naalimpungatan ako nang maramdaman ang paggalaw niya. Pagdilat ko ay nakita ko

Nahihiya siyang tumango at lumapit sa'kin. Magkahawak kaming bumalik sa kwarto.

Nakapangalumbaba ako sa railing ng hagdan habang pinagmamasdan siyang buksan at

Full of twists. Full of questions. Common sense is the key.

"Good morning, hijo. How's your sleep?"

"Magandang umaga, cuddle cakes. Bakit di mo ko ginising?" Nanatili siyang tahimik.

"Good morning!" lahat kami maliban kay Lee ay napalingon sa pintuan.

"Dad!" masayang sigaw ni Penelope.

Everything I see in them right now swelled my heart.

"That's a great idea, Pen. Ikaw honey? Anong sa tingin mo?"

Parang nag-iisip pa si Don Leticio kaya ako muna ang nagsalita.

"I told you so..."

"Ang akala ko may hosting ka?"

"Would you mind helping Lee to prepare? Aalis kasi kami."

"Fine, fine. We're leaving. C'mon, cuddle cakes."

"That pet name is so eew!"

"Yeah, right." Pinaikot niya ang paningin at umalis.

Nang mawala siya ay saka lang lumapit sa'kin si Lee.

"A-alis ka...ba ulit p-pag uwi...natin?"

"How's work for you so far?"

"Is he the one who took my place when I'm away?"

We both chuckled at that.

"She's sound lovely."

"She didn't want me to go earlier."

I think she's the one papa mentioned earlier.

"Wow. I didn't notice the time."

"I prefer to be called Osias. It makes me feel younger."

"I will if you call me Jackie from now on."

"I rest this case."

"See you tomorrow, Osias."

"You too, Jackie."