The Art Of Bravery

CHIMMOONCHIM

Prologue.

Disclaimer

Places, locales, businesses, events are all mixtures of the author's

imagination. Any names related to the living or dead is highly coincidental
unless otherwise used fictitiously. This is a work of fiction.

Warning

This book may contain typographical and grammatical errors considering this
story is still unedited but will be in the right time. Plagiarism is a crime please
prevent from taking others works without proper accreditations. If ever violated
you will be immediately reported under copyright infringement. Please be
responsible and mindful with your decisions / actions. 

This story may contain verbal abuse. Read at your own risk.

Note

Everyone is free to write so if you want to - go ahead! Writing is no

competition unless you make it one. Write to express not to impress.
Remember your happiness is all I ask for. I run my own race I don't run with
those who seek for fame.

*****

I looked at my reflection in the mirror and sighed. Ako ang kakanta ngayon
para sa event na ito. Wala naman akong problema na ako kakanta.. It's just
today is Laurie's birthday.. And I chose to sing the song we always sing
together.

I know I'll be emotional while singing this song. I couldn't believe two years
have passed. Every time I see his picture my chest will tighten. The longing
for his hugs his nonsensical jokes and our sing along.

I miss every bit of him. I was an ate for a short time.. Yes there was a sixth
sibling. The youngest among us five.

"Anli let's go they'll call us in a minute" I heard Noah say. I turned to him and
smiled sadly at him. He smiled and walked towards me to give me a hug.

"It's okay Anli" he said caressing my back. Napangisi ako bago ko siya
hiwalayan. I looked back at my reflection and took a deep breath in before
nodding at him.

Manonood ang mga kuya ko ngayon. Sabi nila manonood daw sila kasi ako
ang mag perform. And this will maybe be my last performance at this school.

I looked at the crowd and started fiddling with my fingers. Noah noticed and
intertwined our hands together. I looked at him and he smiled.

"Wag kang kabahan, kaya mo to, ikaw si Anneliese isang Veloso" he said and
I slowly nodded my head.
"And now we have the representatives of the sing and dance club, Mr. Verge
and Ms. Veloso" the mc said and Noah and I emerged from backstage.

I stood in front of the mic and smiled at the crowd. I looked at my side and
saw Noah sitting at a tall stool a guitar in his hand. He gave me two thumbs
up and I smiled.

I looked back at the crowd and my eyes immediately landed on familiar faces.
My brothers are smiling at me and Gavin is even lifting his phone up to take a
video of me.

Percy is smiling wide at me with Rina and Aly and Miguel. My goodness even
Miguel joined. I smiled widely and nodded at Noah then he started strumming.

I looked up in the sky and whispered. "Laurie this is for you"

Welcome to Wonderland, we've got it all

Potions and pastries that make you grow tall
Forests and cottages, castles and cards that can talk
Welcome to Wonderland, look where you're at
Maddest of hatters, the Cheshire Cat
Magical cabins and lovely white rabbits with clocks

Dancing through a dream

Underneath the stars
Laughing till the morning comes
Everyone that leaves has a heavy heart
Oh, Wonderland, I love

I closed my eyes and allowed myself to sink in the song. And immediately an
image of Laurie singing the same song appeared.

"Ate! I wanna be an Astronaut when I grow up"

"And why's that Laurie?"

"So that I can visit every planet and admire every parts of it" he giggled and
14 year old me giggled as well. "That would be great Andrius Laurent" I smiled
and he immediately hugged me.

"Ate I love you to the moon and back, so whenever you're malungkot just look
up in the sky and I'll pass by as a shooting star"

I furrowed my eyebrows and looked at my little brother in the eyes. 

"You're not leaving bunso" I said and he smiled. "Of course not ate! I'll still be
an Astronaut!" he cheered both his hands in the air and I chuckled and
pinched his cheeks. 

"Yes you will" I smiled and he hugged me back. "But when the day comes that
I'll leave just know that I'll be on the moon looking down at you and our kuyas
from earth because I love you all from the moon and back!" 

I opened my eyes with teary eyes. Why do you have to leave early Laurie?
Sabi mo magiging Astronaut kapa. Such a liar. 

Nothing around here is quite as it seems

Not sure if anything is real or a dream
And the only thing sure from the start 
Is the song that's inside of your heart 
Don't let it leave

If this was a dream then at least I've got 

Memories for when morning comes
Now that I must leave with a heavy heart
Oh, Wonderland, I love
I love you Laurie. Always will and always have. We promise to catch the
culprit.

Chapter One.

"Anli!" I heard my dad call so I reluctantly walked down the stairs lazily. I don't
have the strength to see him. I don't even want to talk to him.

"Yes dad?" I asked politely as soon as I arrived in the living room. Dad paused
his show and turned to me a smug look on his face. "Go get me my bottle of
vodka in the fridge pet" he said and I swiftly nod my head.

Obeying him I walked towards the kitchen and got a bottle of vodka from the
fridge and opened it with a bottle opener.

As I started walking back to the living room one of my older brothers walked in
he saw me holding the bottle and raised an eyebrow at me. He was about to
speak when I point at the direction towards the living room.

He understood what I meant and nod his head. I sighed and began walking
back to the living room. Dad has been like this before but it wasn't worse as
now.

"Here" I said handing over the bottle to him to which he grabs from my hand
without a 'thank you' and continued watching his stupid show and gulping on
vodka.

I took a deep breath in and walked back up the stairs but stopped midway in
the middle. I look to my side and kept staring at the picture. My heart suddenly
feeling heavy. 
I hate Dad. I hate dad for treating me this way even when he was here, I hate
dad for treating me differently from my brothers. But now he's only grown
distant from them. 

I hate him for being worse than before. And I miss the person in the picture. I
miss him so bad. 

"Anli?"

I snapped out of my thoughts and turned to my right to see my older brother.

He's holding a glass of water with ice and looking at me with furrowed
eyebrows. 

"I-I  was just passing by" stupid Anli why do you have to stutter there's nothing
to stutter about. "Anli, I miss him too, please don't blame yourself, you did
nothing wrong" he said coming closer to me to give me a hug and a kiss on
the forehead.

Tears started to form my eyes and I hugged my brother tighter to the point
that he coughed. I immediately let him go and gave him a sheepish smile. 

"Sorry" 

What were you thinking Anli! You almost choked your brother to death! 

"It's alright Anne, I know you love me so much" he smiled and I scoffed but he
flicked my forehead and chuckled. 

"That hurt you know!" I said to the back of my brother who is now walking
towards his room. I scoffed and shook my head before walking back to my
room. 

I just kept looking at the pile of clothes on the floor. Kanina pa ako hanap ng
hanap sa uniform ko para bukas. Saan ko ba kasi nilagay ‘yun?
Bukas kasi first day of school na namin at ayoko na talaga. Palagi nalang ako
nabully luma-laban naman ako pero di parin sila makontento. 

Takot naman ang lahat ng estudyante sa mga kuya ko at ang iba may galit
sakanila kaya sa'kin nila pinalabas, immature peeps. They only bully me
kapag wala na sila kuya sa harap nila or some place na wala ang mga kuya
ko. 

Di ko man sila masuntok kasi mabait akong bata at may mahabang pasensya
ako kaya hinayaan ko nalang sila. Pero minsan di ko na talaga kaya. 

Let me tell you more about my brothers. May apat akong kuya and the eldest
is Seb, his real name is Sebastian Gray, Seb lang ang tawag namin sakanya.
Siya talaga ang pinaka protective among my kuyas. Ang sweet niya naman at
ang bait. Sometimes annoying. 

Kuya Seb is 20 years old at nasa 3rd year of college na siya. He's taking up
medicine, hindi lang sa gusto nya ang Profession na 'yon kundi may ibang
reason talaga kung bakit pinili niya 'yon. 

Next is kuya Oli, his real name is Oliver Jace, kuya is 20 years old and he's in
his 2nd year of college, pareho sila ni kuya Seb ng college and he's taking up
social sciences before proceeding to Police Academy. Yep magiging police
man si kuya Oli. Kuya is my favorite hugger aside from Gavin he has the
warmest and comfortable hugs and he knows what kind of desserts or any
sweets I like. 

Gav or Gavin Clifford West is 19 years old and he's in his 1st year of college.
He's in the same college as kuya Seb and kuya Oli, I think pareho kami lahat
ng college, Anyways,  Gav is taking up digital photography, ang ganda ng
mga litrato na kinukuha ni kuya as in. He's also protective I mean lahat naman
sila, but kuya Gav is also supportive. May pagka sungit din. 

Last! Ang kupal kong kuya, di na ako mag kuya sakanya kasi one year lang
naman age gap namin. He's Xander also known as Alexander Knight. Ang
ganda ng pangalan no? Pangit lang ang may ari hahahah. Xander is 18 years
old last year na niya ngayon as a senior highschool student. He'll be taking up
Business Management maging C.E.O daw siya. Support lang naman ang iba
sakanya, ako rin.

Xander is the most annoying out of the four like grabe sa lahat nng pwede
niyang gawin sa'kin talaga siya pupunta para mambwesit, he's very annoying
and he's very protective like kuya Seb. Kupal si Xander pero mahal ko naman
siya, he's always ready to go to the arcade, beach, roadtrip, binge netflix and
pig on sweets with me. In short parang annoying best friend lang si Xandy. 

I call him Xandy sometimes at ako lang daw ang pwede. And that's all of my
brothers.. First day na talaga bukas, makita ko nanaman ang mga mukha ng
mga pangit na bullies. Aish mga walang magawa sa buhay, mga no life. 

Oh shocks ngayon ko nalang na realize last year na 'to ni Xander meaning

mag isa nalang ako sa school...mas lalo na nila akong i-bully, wala na akong
masabayan sa lunch at recess.. Wala na akong masabayan papunta sa
school tuwing umaga at uuwi sa bahay pagkatapos. 

"Anli, stop groaning and kicking the wall it's annoying" sabi ni Gavin na
pumasok lang sa kwarto ko ng walang paalam! 

"Do you know how to knock?" I fiercely asked and he crossed is arms while
keeping a blank expression on. Ugh he is so annoying. "What?" I asked kinda
pissed and his face softens.

"Nakauwi na si mom tulungan mo si Xander sa baba" he swiftly said and

walked out of my room. Ngumisi naman ako at lumabas din sa kwarto. 

At last! Nakauwi na si mommy pero nakakainis slight, di manlang niya kami

tinawagan para tulungan siya mag grocery. Wala rin akong nagawa sa bahay
kaya boring. 

"Mommy!" I excitedly ran up to her and gave her a hug. "Parang ang tagal
kong umuwi na hindi" she chuckled and I smiled while walking towards the
trunk. 
"Xander you carry the heavy stuffs, I'll carry the not so heavy and mom you
carry the light ones" I instructed and began picking up the grocery bags. 

"Of course I'll carry the heavy ones idiot" Xander said and I glared at him and
mom only laughed at us. "Come on now kids" she waved off and we began
moving.

I placed the groceries on the counter top in the kitchen where Seb is cooking
and started to disinfect the products and place them in their respective areas
in the kitchen. Mom came afterwards and helped as well. 

"Anong niluto mo?" I asked kuya Seb while leaning forward from the side to
see pero di ko pa rin makita. "Adobong manok and mozzarella cheese" ngisi
niya but I smiled wider and kissed his cheek. "Thank you kuya!" 

I walked back up to my room and started fixing my things. All of the school
supplies and clothes are scattered on the floor so I have to clean this up. 

May naisip na ako. Haha, ba't parang may konting excitement ako para
bukas? Dapat matapang ako. Well the thing I hate about myself is that I'm
very sensitive. Konti lang na salita na masakit ang sabihin mo sa'kin o sa iba
masaktan ako pero kong sa'kin talaga maiyak ako. 

Ewan, ganon lang talaga ako ka sensitive. Words hurt me more than actions
do. Sigh dapat maging matapang ako, palabasin ko muna si Rosette, isang
version ko, the cold hearted - - well di talaga cold hearted pero the maangas
me. Bakit Rosette? Anneliese Rosette kasi ang pangalan ko hehe. Well
Anneliese Isis Rosette.

Pero di ko talaga siya palabasin ng buo, dapat pang warning lang ko siya
ipalabas. Ang weird ko no? Well it's not being weird I'm just unique.... Charot. 

"Anli dinner"

"Seriously? Can you knock?" I irritatedly told Gavin.He  just rolled his eyes
and walked out of my room.
Kainis, minsan di ko talaga sila maintindihan, they just need to knock on the
door is it hard to do it? Sa susunod kakatok talaga ako sa mga noo nila,
kakainis. 

"So is everybody excited to go back to school?" mom asked and all of us

shook our heads no. "Oh come on, how bad could it be? You're there to learn
guys remember that" mom stated and we nod our heads.

Dad doesn't eat with us because he ain't in speaking terms with my mother as
well and Seb won't speak to him. So Gavin forces him to go to the guest room
and stay there. Yep dad sleeps in the guest room.

Gavin also sends him food and water he has to do it cause' no one else will
aside from him.

I really do hope this year will be good. Kundi sige lang, alam ko naman may
plano ang panginoon, I just have to trust God and his plans for me. 
Chapter Two.

I groaned when I heard the annoying sound of my alarm. I forced myself to

stand up and turn it off. I rubbed my eyes and yawned before stepping out of
my bed. 

 Papasok na ako ngayon. Oh well kakayanin ko naman. I walk inside my

bathroom and started stripping off my clothes and stepping in the shower. 

After taking a bath and doing my morning skin care, I dried my hair with a
towel and put on my undergarments and my uniform. Our uniform is a white
turtle neck blouse that has three buttons from the chest area. We also pair it
with our dark blue slacks and dark blue coat with our school patch. 

I applied lip balm on my lips and wore my black hair tie on my wrist. I also
wore my black flats bago ako bumaba. Ako lang ang unang gising sa mga
kapatid ko except for kuya Oli, mom and.. Dad. 

Ang gulo na no'ng bumaba ako. Nasa hagdan pa ako pero rinig ko na ang
boses ni mommy at daddy na nag sigawan. This actually happens all the time
at nakaka worn-out. Nakaka pagod.

Huminto lang ako sa hagdan habang nakinig sa mga sinasabi nila. Ayokong
mag interfere di ko pa nagawa ever ang mag interfere sa away nila because
my dad despises me at alam ko masaktan din ako. 

"Wala ka pang nagawa maging ganyan ka pa?! Di mo lang man maalagaan

ng maayos ang mga anak natin!" 

"Walang hiya kang babae ka! Bahay ko 'to! Bahay ko' to! Sinabihan ka lang na
kunin ang mga gamit ko kasi may pupuntahan ako makipag away ka na?!" 

I took a deep breath in and clenched my fists. Ilang beses ko nang naisip na
pigilan ko sila pero di ko magawa, ilang beses ko nang naisip na ipagtanggol
ko ang sarili ko pero di ko magawa. Tumatahimik lang ako, kasi alam ko
masasaktan ako ng sobra.. Physically and verbally. 
"Anne" 

I looked to my side to see my older brother looking at me with a worried

expression. Naka suot na siya ng dark blue body hugger shirt at blank pants
and his school ID. I just sighed and started walking ahead. 

"Tigilan mo ko Leonardo ilang beses mo ng sinaktan ang mga anak ko wag

mo na silang lapitan demonyo ka!" 

After hearing mom yell that, we heard a hard slap after. I widen my eyes and
ran inside the kitchen. Mom is leaning on the counter top while holding her
cheek. 

"Sino ka para sabihan 'yan sa'kin?! Ikaw ang demonyo! Lumayas kayo!
Sawang sawa na ako sainyo!" Dad yelled in rage and picked up a chair while
throwing it towards the wall. 

"Dad stop it! Don't ruin everyone's first day back at school" kuya Oli interfered
and dad turned towards him. Kuya is standing right in front of me now. "Pake
ko!?" sigaw ni daddy. 

"Kayong mga bata wala kayong respeto! Sana di nalang kayo pinanganak!
Magsama kayo sa demonyong 'to!" 

I gasped when kuya punched dad's face which made him step backwards.
Agad naman siyang sinuntok pabalik ni daddy kaya di ko natigilang magsingit
sa dalawa.

"Stop it na, please stop na, dad please, kuya" I cried while putting my palm on
their chests pushing them away from each other. "Lumayas ka sa harap ko
walang alam na bata!" dad yelled which made more tears fall down but made
me get pissed off as well. 

But I refused to speak I refused to step away. I closed my eyes shut while I
used all my strength to push both of them away. 
"Anli!" I opened my eyes once I heard the voice of kuya Gavin. Nakababa na
silang lahat and they're faces are full of concern and anger. Agad naglakad si
kuya Seb papunta sa'min. 

"Alexander take Anneliese with you and go to school, Gavin remain and help
me with this shit" kuya's Seb's voice was cold and deadly agad naman
nagkilos ang dalawang kapatid ko. 

Xander took my arm and dragged me out of the house and into the car. He left
me there inside while he came back inside the house. Nakatingin lang ako sa
labas nakatulala. 

Agad naman nakabalik si Xander with his school bag and mine. His jaw
clenched the whole ride. Walang nagsalita sa amin. I already wiped my tears
away and braced myself for what's coming. 

"Bumili ka ng makain mo sa cafeteria, wipe those tears, malakas ka, mahal ka

namin" he reassured before kissing my forehead and stepping out of the car. 

I took my backpack and walked out of my car before nodding my head. Let's
do this. 

Naglakad na ako patungo sa cafeteria, total 6:20 pa marami pa akong oras at

wala pa akong nakain so kakain ako. Pag abot ko sa cafeteria puno ito ng
iba't ibang estudyante. May iba na may sariling group at may iba na wala. 

Agad naman ako nagpunta sa counter para bumili ng makain and what made
me happy is that they still continued to sell my favorite drinks and that's
strawberry milk and chuckie. Agad ako bumili ng chuckie at water at isang
cheese sandwich. 

Habang kumakain ako nakinig nalang ako ng music sa spotify. But when I
was about to finish my food my phone started to ding four times. Nainis ako
kaya tinignan ko kung ano yun. 
Percy Jackson:

Sa'n kana?!

Percy Jackson:

Oy punta kana sa classroom, classmate tayo :D

Percy Jackson:

Ba't di ka namamansin?! 

Percy Jackson:

Tulog ka pa no? Hoy pato gising na! 

I smiled to myself when I read my best friend's messages except sa last. Hmp
pato ka diyan, my lips are my best asset kaya. Kung pato ako unggoy siya
Haha! Better. 

I hid my phone in my pocket and threw my trash away sinimulan ko na rin ang
chuckie ko habang naglakad patungo sa 11- C HUMSS nakita ko na kasi sa
bulletin board ang section ko. 

"Uy andito na ang leader ng ISIS" tawa ni Criezha. She's one of my bullies
and my old 'fake' friends adore her, psh. "Ano na ang ipinapagawa mo sa mga
alalay mo leader ng ISIS?" she mocked. 

Di ko nalang siya pinansin at tumuloy nang lumakad sa hagdan. Wala talaga

silang magawa sa buhay no? Parati nalang nambwe-bwesit sa buhay ng
ibang tao. 
"Hoy Anneliese Isis!" 

Besides kailangan talaga gawing issue ang pangalan ng isang tao? Kung
pareho kaming pangalan sa grupong 'yon talagang leader na ako agad?
Kasapi na ako sakanila? Bakit? Nakita ba nila ako na sumama sa kanila? 

"Hoy Anneliese! Leader ng ISIS!" 

Di ba nila i-co-consider ang feelings ng ibang tao na gawin 'yan sakanila?

Why won't they get a life instead of bothering others? 

Huh. Magsama silang lahat sa trash bin total mukha naman silang mga
basura. Ugali nga nila pwedeng itapon sa trash bin. They may throw hurtful
words at me, bully me, but I won't back down and let them affect me. 

Sasaka pa sana ako sa hagdan ng biglang nagharang ang kaibigan ni

Criezha sa daanan ko. 

"Bingi ka ba? Kanina ka pa tinatawag ni Criezha" masungit na sabi niya. 

"Narinig ko nga, kaso.. wala akong pake" I calmly said and I heard her and
some students around us gasp. 

Criezha is best known in our school as the queen bee and the mean girl.
Nasayang nga ang kagandahan niya sa pangit niyang ugali. 

"How dare you say that! Anong akala mo? Na importante ka? Ha?!"  a fuming
Criezha is now in front of me. Siya lang ang galit sa'ming dalawa. I just stood
there looking at her while I drink on my Chuckie. 

"Ano?! Di ka sasalita?!" sigaw nya halos lahat nang estyudante ay may hawak
nang cellphone at kinuhanan kami ng video or picture. 

"Can you please move out of my way? Kailangan ko nang bumalik sa

classroom ko" sa attitude niyang ganyan kaya ko pang maging mabait. Like
what they say kill them with kindness. 
Napakunot ang noo ni Criezha habang tinignan niya ako ng masama. She
suddenly pushed me causing me to trip a bit but I didn't fall. Gago ng babaeng
'to! Hagdan' to! Mamatay ako! Jusko magpasalamat talaga siya ng todo na
mataas ang pasensya ko. 

"Walanghiya kang babae ka! Ang bobo mo nga! ganyan mo pa ako tratuhin!
Ayan na ang babaeng sinampal ng nanay niya kasi ayaw ng pamilya niya ng
isang mali!" 

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath in and slowly let it out. Even though
pinagsabihan niya ako ng ganito mataas pa rin ang pasensya ko. Kaya I
smiled at her and took a step forward. 

"I didn't treat you like how you treat me, I am being kind, now please move so
I can go up to my classroom" 

Full English na 'yan ha. Medjo nainis na kasi ako. Di nila alam kung ano ang
pinagdaanan ko tuwing nasa bahay ako. Di naman ganyan si mommy sa'kin.
Boang siya. 

Criezha continued to glare at me not moving an inch. So I slowly pushed her

aside and began walking up the stairs. Alam niya kung gaano ako magalit. I
don't just use my mouth but my fists as well. 

Sigh. May mag post nanaman sa official campus group namin. Lagot ako sa
mga kuya ko kapag nakita nila 'yun hay nako mga senior high na pero ganyan
parin ang ugali. 

"Uy Anli!" sigaw ni Percy pag abot ko sa classroom. Nakakhiya naman siya. 

Agad naman akong tumabi sakanya at nilagay ang bag ko sa gilid sa sahig. Di
pa rin ako sumagot. Nawalan ako ng gana. Nasaktan din kaya ako sa sinabi
ni Criezha, di ko lang pinakita. 

"Hey what's wrong? You seem gloomy" he stated with a worried expression
plastered on his face. 
"Wala, inisip ko lang kung gaano ka kapangit" 

He chuckled and flicked my forehead. Agad ko naman siyang sinamaan ng

tingin habang nakahawak sa noo ko. 

"Ang sakit no'n!" reklamo ko at tumawa lang siya. Tss kung ako ang pipitik sa
noo niya?! 

"Anong pangit ang sinasabi mo diyan? Ang gwapo ko kaya" ngisi niya and I
just rolled my eyes and faced front when the teacher walked in. 

Oo naman not gonna lie ang gwapo ng best friend ko pero tropa ko lang
naman siya nothing more. He's the only best friend that I have siya lang talaga
ang gusto maging best friend ko. 

Tinanong ko siya once kung bakit at ang sabi nya: I've seen your true worth
and who you truly are. Malakas kang tao, mabait, matalino, di lang 'yan makita
ng iba kasi nahubog sila sa lahat ng mga di magandang sinasabi tungkol
sa'yo. 

To be honest his words before still lingered with me uptil now.' Yan ang
nagbigay lakas sa'kin araw araw. He says I'm worth it and I believe I am. Sabi
niya malakas ako oo naman. Totoo' yan. 

I just hate those bullies. Lahat nalang gawin nila ng issue. Sure ako mamaya
may magsasabi naman ng di maganda sa'kin. Alam ko na meron ng nag post
about sa'kin. 

"Oh ba't namumula pisngi mo? Di naman mainit ngayon ah" 

To him sadyang birthmark ko lang ang lumabas. Totoo naman 50/50

birthmark ko at nainis ako. Ganyan talaga ang birthmark ko. It appears based
on my emotions and the temperature of the room. 

"Para sa'yo, ang init kaya, you know ma adapt ko ang temperature sa room
kahit konti lang 'yan" sabi ko habang tinuturo siya. 
I’m emotionally sensitive, my skin is sensitive. Almost everything is sensitive
in me. And he knows that because we've been friends since grade one. 

Before my friends were girls and all we did is argue. They couldn't even keep
a secret! Sadyang sinabi talaga nila sa buong klase ang secrets ko. Palagi
nga kami mag aaway dahil do'n but I'm a forgiving person kaya napatawad ko
sila palagi before. 

I even tried one more time. And same ang result palagi kami nag aaway for
useless things. Lahat lang naging kaibigan ko na babae ay toxic. But I know di
lahat ganyan. I'll meet someone na di toxic someday at maging kaibigan ko
siya. 

"May ginawa kang masama no?" he accused and I furrowed my eyebrows at

him before I slapped his arm.

"Gaga wala no! Ang bait ko kaya sila lang ang may gawang masama sa'kin"  I
pout at nakita ko ang mukha niyang inis na inis habang nakatingin sa phone
niya. 

"Ano 'yan?" tanong ko at sumilip sa tinitignan niya at nakita ko ang nangyari

kanina sa'kin with Criezha. 

May nakakuha pala ng video sa lahat ng nangyari. He's really pissed right
now. Ganyan siya like my brothers  kapag nakita nilang binastos ako ng ibang
tao. Like what Criezha did. They'll go berserk.

I know he's really pissed off right now like really you could see him clench his
jaw. I tried lifting up the mood by hitting his arm and telling him na nandyan
ang adviser namin sa harap kaya nilagay na niya ang phone niya sa kanyang
pocket. 

"For this day we will only be doing introductions, next week mag elect na tayo
ng class officers, within this week kailangan may club na kayo na sinalihan, di
kayo pwede tumanggi nito, it is required, all the club booths will be up starting
later three pm to five for this week only"
Oh my goodness sure na ako na nakita 'yon ni Xandy. Masama pa ang mood
ni Xander. Aish. Pero teka ano kaya na club na sasalihan ko?
Chapter three

Lunch na ngayon at mukha pa ring nainis si Percy. Lumabas na siya first

kaysa sa'kin. That's why I am in a hurry right now. Kanina pako ikot nang ikot
sa campus di ko pa rin siya makita.

Bahala siya diyan kung gusto niya ng gulo edi gawin niya bahala siya di ko
siya ipagtanggol panoorin ko lang siya. Nagugutom na ako. Babalik nalang
ako sa cafeteria para kumain.

"Anli" I froze when I heard the stern voice of my brother as soon as I entered
the cafeteria. I slowly turned around and smiled at my brother. "Sit in our
table" he said and I nod following him towards his table with his friends. 

"Uy Anneliese!" one of his friends waved and I smiled at them. "Wag kang
mag alala Anneliese kami na bahala sa babaeng 'yon" kuya John winked and
I stilled. 

Ano nanaman ang gagawin nila? I eyed my brother only to see him shrug at
me. Wait dapat by now nag tanong na siya kung saan si Percy kasi
magkasama kami ni Percy palagi and he always asks where he is. 

"Xandy, alam mo ba kung saan si Percy?" I asked and he pursed his lips
while shaking his head. "Tawagan mo nalang o i-text" kuya Kyle suggested. 

Oo no? Ang stupid mo ngayon Anli what's the use of your phone? Wattpad
lang? Social media? Nag effort pa talaga ako pwede ko naman siya tawagan. 

"The person you're trying to reach is unavailable at the moment please try
again later" 

Ay? Di ako sinagot? Saan ba kasi ang lalaking 'yon? Lagot talaga si Percy
pag nakita ko siya. 

"Hayaan mo nalang babalik lang ' yon" kuya John said and I nod my head and
started eating on my food. 
Alam ko may nagawa na sila. Wala si Criezha dito di nang aasar si Xander,
biglang nawala si Percy. Hm.. I looked at Xander's face again to see him
looking at me I squinted my eyes and he rolled his at me.

Kasama si Percy sa plan nila I'm sure. I'll find out later. Sana di sila
mapapagalitan first day palang oh may gulo na at sadyang ako pa ang reason
kung bakit sila naging ganito. 

Pagtapos kong kumain kasabay ko pa rin sina Xander at wala pa rin ang
kumag. Nagusap usap lang sina kuya at nagtawanan while I'm just sitting
beside them in the field looking at the trees from afar. 

Nagulat ako at natahimik ang iba when my phone rang indicating someone is
calling. My face immediately lit up when I saw who the caller is. Agad ko
namang sinagot. 

"Hey, how are you?" was the first thing I said when I answered the call and I
heard a hum on the other line. 

"I'm doing good, is it still okay to transfer there at your school?" he asked and I
sat up straight. "You're planning to transfer here?!" 

"Of course that's why I asked" he chuckled and I smiled. "Oo naman you can
still transfer but today na yung last kaya bilisan mo na, enroll kana dali" 

"Alright my lola is coming over there this afternoon to enroll me, I still have to
do some arrangements with my boarding school, see you soon Liese" and
with that he ended the call. 

I smiled happily and faced the others who were looking at me confusion
plastered on their faces. 

"Sino 'yun? Di pwedeng si Percy ' yun" kuya Elmo said and I nod. "It was
Miguel, remember him Xandy?" tumango si Xander at tumayo. "Anong sabi?"
Xander asked and I smiled. 
"Miguel will transfer here daw" tumango lang si Xander at hinila ako papasok
sa loob ng campus building. "Ando'n na raw si Percy sa classroom niyo, mag
ingat ka" he said before placing a kiss on top of my head. 

"Kitakits mamaya youngest Veloso" kaway ng mga kaibigan ni kuya kumaway

din ako sakanila at naglakad na papunta sa classroom. 

Pag abot ko do'n agad kong sinapak ang braso ni Percy at napa aray naman
siya. Yah! Deserve niya 'yon. Kumag. Di ko na lang siya pinansin at umupo na
sa upuan ko. 

Miguel Beaulieu is one of my closest friends. He can understand tagalog but

he can't speak the language. English speaking 'yon ma'am sir. He loves music
even the classical ones and he loves playing the piano.

French ang father niya at Filipino ang mother niya, when we were grade eight
lumipat siya sa ibang school. It's sad but it's okay, sa isang boarding school
sa France siya nag aaral. 

He has a little sister and close din kami her name is Madeline and she's one
year younger than me. Nasa France si Maddy ngayon babalik daw siya kapag
college na siya. She'll study Architecture. 

Excited na ako para sa kinabukasan namin. Planado na lahat ang future ko

and I am the one who planned it. I'll study Law, buy my own house and I will
take lots of cases. 

Also my ibang plan kami ni kuya Seb.. That's why I chose Law and why he
chose medicine. It's gonna be a long journey.

Hm.. What club will I join? I glanced at Percy to see him staring back at me.
Inirapan ko siya at binalik ang atensyon ko sa guro namin. 

Di ko na mapigilan. Kailangan ko talaga itanong baka may nangyaring

masama kay Criezha. I'm not that heartless okay, I still care for others even
though they're mean to me. 
"Anong ginawa niyo kay Criezha?" I asked calmly which made Percy look at
me with a surprised look. "Paano mo-"  I cut him off by saying. "Obvious
naman Percival, bigla kang nawala, di ka tinanong ni Xander at sabi pa nila
kuya John na sila na bahala, you're obviously in this" 

He sighed and looked down on his notebook before looking back at me.
Subukan mong magsinungaling, sasapakin kita sa harap ng klase. 

"We just threatened her, nothing big" he said and I slightly slapped my hand
on the desk. "Just threatened her? Percy ang tagal niyo, sabihin mo na ang
totoo bago kita masapak" 

He shut his eyes and I could see his jaw clenched. Bahal ka diyan Percival
Kai, if you won't tell me the truth, I'll continue to pry it from you. 

"Fine, mukhang di naman kita kayang kalabanin, I threatened her, Axe talked
to her, okay na?" he asked and I furrowed my eyebrows. "Ba't kayo
natagalan?"  I asked and he played with my nails pretending to apply nail
polish on it. "Tumakbo siya no'ng sinampal siya ni Axe, hinanap pa namin
siya, pag nakita namin sinampal siya ulit ni Axe" 

"GAGO KAYO BABAE 'YON! YOU SHOULD' VE JUST TALKED TO HER

CALMLY AND AVOIDED PHYSICAL REACTIONS NAPAKA STUPID NIYO!" 

I couldn't help it. Even though Criezha tortured me by bullying me they still
don't have the rights to hit a girl. Oo may mali ang babae pero babae 'yon at
dalawa silang lalaki. Mukha bang kaya ni Criezha maki pag away sa
dalawang lalaki? Hindi.

"Ms. Veloso is there any problem?" shit. Nasa klase pala kami. "Ah wala sir,
sorry, Percy and I were just discussing about magna carta of women" I
excused and the teacher smiled. "I'm glad that you two are focusing on your
lessons but please avoid yelling in the middle of the class, pag abot mo sa law
school sisigawan ka na nang prof mo niyan" 
I shyly smiled before I sat back down on my seat and glared at Percy who
softly chuckled beside me. Our teacher decided to continue with his
introduction and the students turned back towards them. 

"Alam ko na isa kang scary lawyer in the future pero magaling ka, ang galing
mo kayang mag debate, may sagot ka sa lahat, you always find ways to
answer and sometimes you confuse the other by twisting their words and then
attacking them with your answer" Percy praised and I can't help but smile. 

"May nakain ka ba Percy? Malakas ba ang suntok ko?" I accused and he

ruffled my hair while we chuckled. Pero mahina lang para hindi ma disturb ang
class. 

Kanina nag kasagutan pa kami and now we're laughing with each other.
Ganon kami kadali mag bati kung gaano man 'yon ka lala na kasalanan we'll
still find our way to make up for it because we're Percy and Anneliese nothing
can break our friendship. 

"Xander.. Pumunta ba sila kuya sa school?" I asked when we were on our

way back home. "Ano sila? Si Cassie? Para sabihan nang 'Cassie di ka
papasok sa school'" Xander teased and I pushed him slightly causing him to
turn the wheel a bit. 

"Sige ka kapag madisgrasya tayo ikaw ang kasalanan" he threatened while

chuckling and I made sure to hit his arm. "Wag kang mag salita nang ganiyan
siraulo ka" I scolded and he rolled his eyes. 

Pwede maging Xander na mabait at tahimik nalang siya kaysa Xander na

annoying at maingay? But oh wells this is what makes Xander unique, he's
the one who lifts up the mood in every situation and he never fails. 

Pag dating namin sa bahay ando'n na si Gavin. Yep I don't call Gav and
Xander kuya, kasi one year lang ang age gap namin ni Xander at two years
lang ang age gap namin ni Gavin kaya di ako nag kuya sakanila.
"Hi Gav" I greeted him with a hug and he hugged back. "Kamusta first day
mo?" he asked and I yawned a bit. "Hectic, pero okay naman" I said and he
nodded. Tinanguan ko si Xander at naglakad na papunta sa kwarto ko. 

I dropped my bag on the ground and hopped on my bed allowing my weight to

sink in the soft fabric. Hay nako feeling ko two days na napakaraming events
ang nangyari.

Wait. Nakapag enroll na ba si Miguel? Nako di na pwedeng mag enroll sa

ganitong oras. Strict ang cashier, dapat enrolled na siya kaninang 1-3 pm. 

I took my phone out from the pocket of my vest and quickly sent a message to
Miguel and he immediately called me I just shrugged and answered his call. 

"Liese I didn't get to enroll, I decided to enroll into this different school, lola got
stuck in traffic and when she got to Silver SHS they said they can't accept any
transferees anymore, I'm sorry" 

I knew it! Di siya nakapag enroll. That's so saad. I was looking forward to
seeing him everyday in school and getting along with each other like the old
times. 

"Sigh, that's okay, atleast there's still a school that accepted you"  

"It's near your school, let's just meet up during lunch" he suggested and a
smile appeared on my face. "Good idea, haha, see you tomorrow Migs!" 

"See you tomorrow Liese" he chuckled before ending the call. Sus! Akala ko
di ko siya makita araw araw kasi nasa ibang school siya, malapit lang pala
sa'min. 

Ay Oo tatawagan ko pa si Percy. Nakalimutan kong tanungin kong anong club

ang sasalihan nya. I quickly called him at agad naman itong sumagot. 

"Wow active ka ghorl?" I joked and he mumbled a 'di mo sure' which made us
both laugh. "Ano pato?" he asked and I frowned. 
"Imong mama pato" I teased and we went on like that for a few minutes before
he gave up because I ain't giving up first. "Ano nga ba't ka napatawag? May
nangyari ba?" he asked concern evident in his voice.

Percy knows what goes on inside my house and when things get heavy to the
point that my brothers have to handle it I always go to Percy's house and stay
there for the night until the problem is solved or like how kuya Seb says it
'when this shit is handled' 

"Nakalimutan kong tanunging sa'yo kong anong club ang sasalihan mo" I said
and I heard him scoff kaya napa simangot ako sa nakuhang response. "  'Yan
lang?" he asked and I muttered a yes. 

"Nako, Anneliese Isis Rosette, kailangan pa bang itanong 'yan?" he asked as

if na stress na siya, nainis ako tuloy, tinanong nga lang. "Ewan, tanongin mo
sa pagong" I said and I heard him chuckle. 

"Ba't di mo tanongin? Alam mo naman basketball pa rin ang sasalihan ko,

varsity player ako no, captain pa!" he said and I mocked him by mouthing
what he said. 

"Malay ko ba kung basketball pa rin ang sasalihan mo, people change and
when they change their decisions do to" I stated. "People change but majority
don't why? They fear of change, that's why you need to face that fear and
control it, don't let it get to you or you'll end up scarred"  he said and I
hummed. 

"Oh wala kang masagot? Ha! Panalo na ako!" he cheered and I rolled my
eyes. "I have you dumbass, why tell me something I already know of when it's
clear that you enjoy basketball, you're the happiest when you play with your
team mates, alam ko naman ang sinasabi mo, I read and observe you dipshit,
I know that stuff, but why can't you just admit that you still chose basketball
because you're happy when you play? Why? Because you fear of judgement"

Pagkatapos kong sabihin 'yon natahimik bigla ang kabilang linya. Akala nya di
ko alam, akala nya di ko makita na kabahan siya kapag may mag tanong
nang ganitong tanong. Percy may look strong, cheerful and playful in the
outside pero may kaba siyang tinatago in the inside. 

"I hate that you always have an answer to everything and I hate that most of it
are true" he sighed and I sighed as well. "Percy don't hide anything from me,
alam ko na ayaw mong may mag tanong sa'yo nang ganitong mga tanong,
you always avoid questions about yourself and your decisions other than
avoiding you mask what you truly" 

"Iiyak na ba ako?" biglang tanong nya and I brought up my left upper lip. "Sira!
Seryoso ako" I said and he chuckled. "Oo na tama ka, pero ganyan naman
talaga dito sa bahay, palagi nila akong i-judge sa lahat nang gagawin ko, kaya
takot akong magsalita tungkol sa sarili ko" he confessed and I let out a small
smile.

"Percival Kai, siraulo ka, gago ka, pero matalino rin ka, masipag ka, mabait...
Minsan-"  

"Wow minsan" 

I just laughed and he joined as well. 

"Percy you're an amazing person and you're very strong, you know how to
comfort me and how to cheer me up, alam ko na palagi kang jinu-judge pero
also know na takot lang ang family mo na mapunta ka sa kamalian,
understand them, open up to them and learn to face your fears gaya nang
sabi mo kanina face it and control it or else you'll be scarred"  

I smiled to myself as I told him those words and I heard him chuckle in the
other line kaya napa kunot noo ako. 

"Di ako sanay sa ganitong side mo, but thank you Anli, and I'll take your
advice, siguro nga 'yan ang reason nila kasi naging masama na tao na si kuya
at napunta sa kulungan, sigh" 
My smile faded when he mentioned his brother. Kuya Maximus is a great
person, wala namang mali sa mga ginawa nya and I know he was wrongly
accused for something he didn't do. 

But because no one believed kuya Max he became violent and that made him
more of a bad person in the eyes of the judge and his opponent and to those
who were seated in the court room to watch the trial. 

"Don't worry about kuya Max, we'll bring him justice when the time is right" I
reassured and he muttered a thank you to me. We exchanged a few words
bago namin binaba ang tawag. 

This is why Percy chose to become a lawyer, it's to bring justice to his older
brother and to let others see that they accused the wrong person. Percy also
promised that he will catch the real culprit. 

After resting a bit. I stood up to change into my pajamas at bumaba na ako for
dinner. Nakauwi na sina kuya Seb at Oli and I could see a bruise on kuya
Seb's cheek bone and a bruise on kuya Oli's nuckles. 

"Naghintay ba kayo na may babae mag gamot nyan?" I asked and both of
them looked at me their ears turning red. "Hoy gising na wala tayo sa isang
storya" I said and they glared at me. 

Sigh future Doctor naman si kuya Seb pero di nya kayang i-gamot ang sugat
nya kailangan talaga may ibang babae mag gamot nyan? Psh flirts. 

As I sat down someone flicked my forehead napa aray ako at inirapan ko ang
nag pitik sa noo ko. As usual andito kami sa dining table without dad. 

"Gusto mo ako ang pipitik sa noo mo?" I threateningly smiled and Gav just
scoffed at me. "Kumain nalang kayo" mom said which made me start eating. 

Wala si Dad ngayon and I know he'll be coming homer late.. Drunk. At alam
ko may gulo nanaman mamaya. I don't want to hear it. 
"Kuya Seb, Oli, may crush kayo no? Or no may girlfriend na kayo no?" I
accused and they both looked at each other with red ears I just laugh at them
and kuya Oli rolled his eyes while kuya Seb cleared his throat. 

"Wala nga, stop accusing without credible evidence" kuya Seb said. And kuya
Oli face palmed. While Xander and Gav continued eating while staring at the
three of us as if we're in a movie. 

He just didn't tell me that. I closed my eyes and opened them with a different
expression. Atty. Veloso mode on. 

"Clearly you have no rights to say that when I can state all the credible
evidences that I have" I started and I saw how kuya Seb looked up to me and
to Oli who just shook his head in disappointment to him. 

"First, whenever I mention a girl or a girlfriend both your ears turn read, next
when I told you two that we're not in a story awhile ago both of you glared at
me, technically assuming that there is a girl you're waiting for, it may be a
crush or you really like someone and you're chasing her or you really are
seeing someone"

The whole table went silent and I closed my eyes and opened them again.
Atty. Veloso off. I shrugged and continued eating. 

"Future doctor na di kayang gamotin ang sarili" I mumbled but enough for
them to hear it. Gav and Xander  snickered and kuya Seb glared at me but I
just ignored it. 

"  'Yan ba ang future lawyer namin? I'm so proud of you anak" mom smiled
and I smiled back. We continued eating and telling everyone about what
happened in our day. 

Just as Xander was supposed to speak about what happened in school we

heard the main door close with a loud bang. Indicating that father is home,
that's when everyone felt silent. 
Dad walked inside the dining room and his eyes landed on me. I began to
mutter curse words in my head when our gazes met. Brace yourself Anli
sisigaw na yan ngayon. 

"Ah andito na ang bobo sa lahat nang bobo" he mocked. When no one paid
attention to him he slammed his hands on the table causing mom and I to
jump.

"Palagi ka nalang mangingi alam! Pakialamera ka Anneliese! Wala ka ngang

alam sa buhay! Wala ka ngang kwentang bata mangialam ka pa!"  he yelled
causing my chest to tighten. 

"Pwede bang manahimik ka nalang? Walang ginawa ang kapatid namin

sa'yo" Gav snapped which received a hard slap from dad for his remark. 

"Manahimik ka! Wala namang kwenta ang mga litrato mo!" dad said which
made Gavin silent. He did not just insult Gav's passion. 

"Manahimik ka Leonardo! Di naba enough para sa'yo ang ginawa mo

kaninang umaga?! Kung gulo lang ang gusto mo hala pumunta ka sa labas at
gumawa nang gulo wala kaming pakialam!" mom yelled. 

Dad was about to throw a chair towards mom when kuya Oli took it away from
him and kuya Seb punched him. Dad punched him back and kuya Oli and
Xander are trying to get them both away from each other. 

Ang gulo. I'll just walk up to my room. As soon as I stepped inside my room I
fell on my knees and tears began to fall from my eyes but I didn't make any
sound. I cried silently. 

I tried wiping them away pero tumutulo parin ang mga luha ko. Ang bigat nang
damdamin ko. Akala nya wala akong pinagdaanan. Napaka kapal nang
mukha nya para sabihan ako na wala akong alam. 

I stood up and walked towards my bed I sat there and picked up the portrait of
a smiling little boy holding a brown stuffed bear. 
"Laurie.. Okay siguro na wala ka rito para hindi mo 'to maranasan, pagod na
ako sa mga ginagawa nya Laurie, pero ito ako, tumatayo pa rin, ngumisi pa
rin, di ko alam kung may sakit ka ba talaga o may pumatay sa' yo but.. Ate will
bring justice to you" 

This is one of the reasons why I chose to study Law. And that's to find out if
my little brother was murdered or not my kuyas and I suspect that he's
murdered because there was no way he had an unknown sickness. The
doctor can't just put a stethoscope towards the childs chest and began saying
he has an unknown disease. 

Plus the disease he said does not exist, I've searched it up. And it's just latin
for  I am with you. Suspicious I know. The other reason why I chose law is
because I want to bring justice to those who are experiencing what I'm
experiencing. To end their nightmare. 

And to put people who abuse their children behind bars. Who abuse them
physically and verbally. 

My father may tell me I know nothing that I'm dumb. But let's just prove him
wrong, Atty. Veloso in the making. 
Chapter Four

𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲; 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸.

I need an ice pack. I can't go to school looking like this. My eyes are so puffy.
It's five am right now and I know no one else is awake. I grabbed my bag and
went downstairs to get an ice pack.

"Anli"

I jumped when I heard someone call my name. I turned around to see kuya
Oli all dressed up I placed a hand on my chest and glared at him before
putting the ice pack on my eyes.

"I'm sorry" he apologised and I nod. I know my voice is hoarse from crying so I
decided to get myself a glass of water but I was stopped by kuya Seb who is
holding a glass of water for me.

I happily took it and drank it. I smiled at my kuyas and placed the glass on the
table.  I stopped and turned around to look at both my kuyas faces. I sighed
and went to the cupboard for the medical kit. 

Dalawa ang med kit namin dito sa bahay one is here in the kitchen at yung isa
nasa extra bathroom sa itaas. But I'm too tired to go up at andito lang naman
ang isa. 

I placed down the ice pack and took out a cotton and iodine I faced kuya Seb
and tiptoed para malagay ko ang medication sa kanya. Future doctor pa nga
di alam aalagaan ang sarili. 

I heard kuya Seb hiss because of pain and I just fought the urge to eye roll
and placed a bandage on his bruise. Naka dalawang suntok pa ito. 

"Kasalanan mo 'yan, nakikipag away, di ginamot, hay nako what to do with

you" I sighed and he just ruffled my hair to which I frowned to. Inayos ko lang '
to ang buhok ko kanina tapos ginamotan ko pa sugat nya ganito ang makuha
ko after?! 

I turned to kuya Oli and gestured for him to place his hand on mine agad
naman nyang ginawa. He also hissed when I applied iodine on his bruised
knuckles. 

"Ayan, suntok pa more" I mocked and he pinched my cheek. Tss, dalawang

panganay mahilig pa sa away. "Kuyas wag kayong maghintay sa babae na
gamotan 'yan, alam nyo naman kung ano ang mangyari kapag pinahintay nyo
nang matagal ang sugat, ma infected" I said and they nod their head. 

"Yes ate" kuya Seb teased and I threw him a glare to which both of them
laughed at. Kasalanan ko ba na mukha silang bunso? Psh. My kuyas are so
childish yet mature at the same time. 

"Oh di ka kakain nang breakfast?" kuya Oli asked and I shook my head no
"kain ka muna, it's unhealthy to leave with an empty stomach" kuya Seb
stated and I scoffed. "Says the one who can't even tend his bruise" I said and
kuya Oli laughed. 

"Stop rubbing it in my face, kain na" he said placing a plate of pancakes in

front of me I smiled when I saw the plate of blueberry cheescake beside me. 

After eating I brushed my teeth and decided to go ahead to school. Of course

di papayag sila kuya so kuya Oli decided to take me to school. And now here I
am in the library advance reading some of my school books. 

Wala na kasi akong magawa and the fact that I am so passionate in becoming
a lawyer I ended up being studious and hard working. Yes because my main
goal is to become a lawyer - nothing else. 

There's another girl here inside the library even though it's still 5:49 am in the
morning at kami lang dalawa sa loob other than the school librarian. I put on
my earphones and listened to moonlight sonata, ewan it's been a habit
already. 
Whenever I study I always listen to moonlight sonata it helps me focus and it's
really soothing. My mom suggested me this idea and I am really grateful that
she did. 

I still have my ice pack with me and I'm still putting it on my eye. Para
mamaya wala na ang puffiness sa mga mata ko. I really like hanging out in
our library. It's very comfortable here.

I almost jumped when I felt a hand on my shoulder. I looked up to see Percy

with a mischevious smile on his face. I just nod at him and checked the time to
see it's already 7:25 am. Wow I've been reading for that long? 

I turned off my music and kept my earphones. Then I closed my book and
faced Percy who is sitting across me. With his team captain badge pinned on
his coat and his hair a bit messy and pushed  up. 

"How'd you know I'm here?" I asked and he gave me a look that says 'are you
really asking me that?' and I just shrugged. "Well Xander came to school
alone and knowing you something happened last night and you went here first
and since you'd get bored you came here to the library, honestly if I didn't find
you here I would panic" he explained and I pursed my lips. 

"Anyways, I'll have lunch with Miguel so kung gusto mong sumama sama ka
lang" I said and he furrowed his eyebrows at me and leaned closer. "Sino si
Miguel?" he asked and I rolled my eyes. "Miguel Beaulieu" I stated and his
mouth went 'oh'. 

"That kid, sure sama ako nakauwi napala yun" he said and I nod smiling. "Nga
pala, alam ko di ka nakinig kanina sa announcement ni dean kaya ako nalang
mag sabi saiyo, may activities tayong gagawin ngayong araw, ang gagawin
lang natin ay hahanap nang club at makilala ang mga kaklase natin" 

Oh. Well di pa ako decided kung ano ang sasalihan ko but sure that's a great
idea para naman alam namin kung anong meron. 
"Tara na malapit na magsimula ang klase" Percy said picking up my book and
started walking out of the library. I stood up as well and followed him. 

Walang bully ang lumapit sa'min ngayon kasi andito naman si Percy pero
kapag wala si Percy, mga kaibigan ni Xander or si Xander lumapit sa'kin ang
kung sino man para mambwesit sa'kin. Para kailaman ang buhay ko. 

"Good morning class, so I will ask you questions and everyone should answer
them" our adviser sir Dave said as soon as Percy and I sat down. "Don't worry
on your own opinion lang naman ito" sir reassured and started looking at each
of us and to the attendance paper. 

"Let's have Ms. Alinlaho and then Ms. Veloso after" 

I silently groaned when I knew I was second. Agad namang tumayo ang
Alinlaho. She despise me I know she does, she always sends me glares
kapag we past by each other. Parang may nagawa akong masama sakanya,
wala naman talaga. 

"Ms. Alinlaho, I have a student who is having a hard time with her studies and
she asked me how to handle with stress, I answered her but what about you
Ms. Alinlaho how do you handle stress?" 

I think her first name was Stella? Yeah I think so. She smiled to the  class and
thanked our adviser for asking the question before turning towards us and
stated her answer. 

"The best way to handle stress is to step away from that factor for awhile and
rest then you come back and face it again" she said but majority weren't
satisfied with her answer.

"Are you sure Ms. Alinlaho?" Sir Dave asked and Stella nodded her head.
"Okay you may take your seats" he said and Stella sat down. "You can't run
away from what's troubling you, yes you can take a rest but you must also ask
for help when you can't handle it alone, there's nothing wrong with asking for
help, besides from that you must set a proper schedule" sir Dave said. 
Bigla siyang ngumiti sa'kin at agad namang naka tingin ang iba sa'kin. Guess
it's my turn. Here goes nothing. 

"Ms. Veloso B wants to give up because people keeps telling B that B isn't
going to make it what will you say?" sir Dave asked and the class starts
whispering. Hay nako alam ko na ano ang pinag isipan nila  'di nya yan
masagot'  'bobo yan'.

Because that's what they always think. That I'm dumb because I'm silent and
not cooperative in class unless I'm called. These kids are underestimating
me. 

"Well sir, why will you give up when you have a purpose why you started?
Why allow them to say things that aren't true when you're not doing it for their
approval but for your purpose? Let them believe what they want to believe let
them say what they want to say and in the end let them turn their heads
towards your direction, leave them shock once you achieve it" 

Everyone was speechless with what I said. It's as if di pa nag sink in sakanila
ang sinabi ko, alam ko kung bakit ito ang tinanong ni sir sa'kin kasi ito naman
ang kadalasan na mangyari sa mga estyudante.

"Good job Ms. Veloso I'm impressed" sir Dave smiled and I smiled back
thanking him before I sat back down. "Galing mo ah, future lawyer yun?"
Percy teased and I just glared at him to which he chuckled.

Tinawag na ni sir lahat nang kaklase namin at ngayon sabi nya na mag
debate daw ang dalawang estudyante about a certain question na itanong ni
sir at ako ang isang estudyante. Ang isa ay hay nako kailangan talaga.. si
Percy.

"Mr. Lamuerte and Ms. Veloso, A wanted to change but is afraid of what B
and C will say A is also afraid if A will change for the worse, what do say?"  sir
asked and I stared down at Percy.
We're both different kapag nagkalaban kami. Walang kaibigan-kaibigan kung
kaaway kami sa isang project or trabaho man. Kaaway kami.

"I will suggest sir that A will talk to B and C-"  di pa natapos si Percy I cut his
words off na. "But what if B and C are the ones who will ignore A?" I asked
with a raised eyebrow and Percy looked at me with a raised eyebrow as well.

"Ms. Veloso, talking about change? That's an interesting topic to talk about
right? Sure naman na makuha ang atensyon ni B at C"  he said and I smiled
napa 'ooh' naman ang kaklase namin.

"Mr. Lamuerte there are many possible ways what B and C is, their
personality wasn't stated in the question, now why would A be nervous?
Clearly B and C are rude people who have no care with A" I smiled and
suddenly Percy and I's debate became an entertainment to our class.

May sasabihin sana si Percy pero nagsalita na ako bago siya mag salita.

"Mr. Lamuerte you stated that A should talk to B and C, I know others don't
see any wrong thing about that but if they dig in deeper they would know
what's wrong with your statement" I stated and he looked offended but
masked it. Sorry Percy debate to eh.

"A stated that she is afraid what B and C will say, technically assuming B  and
C are the types na binalewalan ang tao, so if A will ask them there's a 50%
chance that she wouldn't consider changing"

I paused to look at the class before I turned to Percy and smiled.

"Change is a scary thing I get it, A is also afraid if she'll change for the worse
well that's your choice, do you want to change for the worse or for the better?
You want to know if you'll change for the worse or not? Try it, you'll never
know unless you try, and again the choice to changing for the better or not is
up to you"
I finished off with a smile to the class and a nod towards Percy. Percy smiled
at me as if he's a proud brother. And sir Dave smiled at me as if he's a proud
father.

"Good job Ms. Veloso, Mr. Lamuerte, I'm impressed" sir Dave said and we
thanked him before walking back to our seats. The class gave us an applause
as we started retreating.

"Grabe ka ha, pinahiya mo ko, anong sekreto mo para may ma sagot" he said
and I giggled.  "I told you I read, sa sunod kapag magkalaban tayo maghanap
kana nang paraan para i-confuse ako or ma caught off guard ako" I said and
he pushed me slightly.

"Anong sunod? Wala nang sunod! Ayaw na kitang makalaban baka mag away
lang tayo sa huli" he said staring at me in disbelief and I just rolled my eyes.
OA nito.

'Yon lang pala ang activity namin para sa umaga for the whole afternoon
hahanap na kami nang club na sasalihan namin. At ito ako ngayon naglakad
patungo sa paaralan ni Miguel kasama si Percy.

"Baka mag french na siya sa' kin mag Spanish nalang ako sa harap nya para
patas kami" Percy said and I just shook my head at him. "Ang oa mo, di kaya
ganyan si Miguel, chill lang 'yon" I said and he scoffed.

Before kasi nilagyan nya nang juice ang buhok ni Miguel kaya nagalit si
Miguel sakanya and for a few months Miguel kept annoying Percy by calling
him to answer the questions our teacher would ask. Parang tanga si Percy
noon haha.

"Di na 'yon galit" I reassured and he shook his head not believing me so siniko
ko ang gilid nya. "If you're gonna doubt Miguel ba't ka sumama sa'kin?" sungit
kong sabi and he just glared at me before ruffling my hair.

Kainis! Ang gulo nanaman nang buhok ko! Ba't ba ang hilig nila mang gulo sa
buhok ko!?
"Hey Liese, Kai" Miguel greeted and I smiled back. Si Percy naman naka
awkward na ngiti making Miguel chuckle. "Don't worry bro, I'm not mad
anymore" he reassured and I mouthed Percy a 'see'

We ended up eating at a small resto near our school. Percy and Miguel sat
next to each other while I sat across them. Percy wanted to sit next to me but I
insisted him to sit next to Miguel.

"You're so tall na Migs and you look mature, before para kang gay" I said and
Percy laughed. "Wow thanks for the compliment Liese" Miguel said
sarcastically and I just chuckled saying sorry to him in the end.

"Well you were taller than me before and now your height seems average" he
retorted and I glared at him while Percy laughed. "Wala ka bang iba magawa
kundi tumawa? Bigyan nalang kaya kita nang megaphone para lakasan mo
pa" pagsusungit ko kay Percy but he continued laughing, Miguel joined in too.

"I don't know what club I should join, na pressure na ako sa clubs" I stated
and the both of them went silent before Miguel broke that silence. "Just go
with what you like to do, you like expressing yourself in different ways right?
Then go for something like that" he said and I slowly nod my head.

"Pwede mo rin i-try ang debate club magaling ka naman mag debate" Percy
suggested and I just pursed my lips and thought of both of their suggestions.

If I'll choose the debate club madali lang ako magsawa when I enter law
school kasi 'yun naman ang palaging ginagawa but if I also join I somehow
have experience.. But I already have that experience so it's no use.

Pero ano..ang club na makapag express ako?

As I thought of that I suddenly began humming a song and the answer just hit
me. I know what I'll join now!
"I'll join the sing and dance club" I stated and they smiled at me. "That's good,
as long as you're happy" Miguel said and I smiled. "What about you Kai?
What are you planning to join?"

"Basketball pa rin, di mo ba nakita badge ko? Captain ako oh" Percy said
showing off his team captain badge to Miguel who looked at it with no interest.
Gusto ko lang tumawa.

"That's nice, I hope you don't hit anyone" Miguel stated and I chuckled.
"Grabe ka di noh" Percy pouted and Miguel chuckled.

It's been a few hours already at naka register na ako sa club ko. Our first
meeting will be on monday, nasa loob na ako nang kwarto naka higa. Si
Xander nasa kwarto nya rin. Di na required sakanila sumali sa club since
they're getting ready for college na.

Miguel, Percy and I met again along with Xander on our way home. I'm glad
that my friends are reunited. And I'm looking forward for Maddy's return. But
that will be in a few years pa.

I'm already dressed in my favorite jumpers while I read my book it also started
raining so I see no reason why not to read. I got startled when my door
harshly opened and it harshly hit the wall. I sat up when I saw my dad
standing on the entrance looking furious. 

"Ikaw babae ka! Akala mo makatakas ka ha?! Bigla ka lang mawala na

kinakausap ka! Wala kang respeto!" he yelled. I didn't answer instead I closed
my book and stood up.

"Wala kang.. Respeto!" he yelled again and threw my speaker on the ground
making it crack. "Mamatay ka sana! Wala kang alam! Puro ka nalang nasa
cellphone mo! Puro ka nalang nasa libro mo!" he yelled again.
Tears began forming in my eyes but I bit my lip to prevent them from falling.
My breath is getting faster as I witness this happening..to me.

"Akala mo may makuha ka dyan?! Maging palpak ka paglaki mo! Gusto mo

bang lagyan ko nang bullet ang noo mo?!!" 

"Dad ano ba! Di ka pa rin ba na kontento sa mga ginawa mo?! Pati si Anli
sasaktan mo?! May ginawa ba si Anli na masama?! Ha?! Wala!"  Xander
yelled. 

I couldn't take it anymore. My tears started falling down. My chest feels heavy
and I feel like.. I don't want to live anymore..I just want all of this to stop.

"Wala ka ring respeto noh! Panganay ka man dapat sakanya dapat tuturuan
mo 'yan! Sabihin mo sakanya wala siyang kwenta na bata!" 

"Hindi! Di ko 'yan sasabihin sakanya kasi di naman 'yan totoo! Tumahimik ka

demonyo ka!"

"Ikaw tumahimik sana nga mamatay rin ang batang 'yan wala-"

I can't stand being here anymore so I ran. I ran downtairs not bothering if I
bumped into Gavin and Oli on my way out as they just arrived. I ignored them
calling my name. I just kept running.

I didn't stop running I kept running without knowing where I would go. I just let
my feet take me anywhere. I felt free while I run in the rain. I felt as if all my
problems are far behind me. 

Huminto ako nang di ko na kayang tumakbo. I panted as tears fell down my

eyes. I squatted down and kept my gaze on the ground. Di ko alam kung saan
ako.

Ang dami nang nangyari sa'kin na masama. Palagi akong binubully, palaging
galit ang ama ko sa'kin.
Di ko na kaya lahat, napaka sobra na, napaka sakit na, ayoko nang gumising.
Pero dapat ko lang talaga kakayanin. Dapat ko talaga maging malakas para
kay mommy, para sa mga kuya ko, para kay.. Laurie. Para sa mga tao na
mahal ako at nanatili sa tabi ko palagi. 

Sigh. Whenever you are the happiest something sad will follow after. 

Besides if I leave this world even though it's not my time yet. I will create a big
sin an unforgivable sin. So I have to wait for my time. And while waiting I must
keep moving forward to reach my goals. To become the person who I am
supposed to be. 

I stood up when I felt a shade above me and there I saw Percy. He's holding
an umbrella above the both of us. Worry is evident on his face. Pero ba't siya
napunta rito? How did he find me? 

"P-percy" nauutal kong sabi sa kakaiyak. He did not speak, all he did was
stare at my face trying to read me. 

And then he enveloped me in a hug. Tears started to fall again as I hugged

him back. We stayed like that for two minutes then he broke the hug to face
me. 

He wiped my tears away with his thumb and held my hand and lead me
somewhere. All I could feel right now is safety, understanding, comfort. When
Percy held my hand I felt safe, when he didn't speak I knew he understood
that I want silence. 

I want to cry I don't want to talk about what happened I want someone to lean
onto, he understood that. I felt comfort when he hugged me and wiped my
tears away. And now he's taking me somewhere I don't know.. but somehow I
trust him. 

We finally stopped in front of our neighbourhood. Agad ko naman kinuha ang

kamay ko from him kaya napatingin siya sa'kin na naka kunot ang noo at
tumanggi ako sakanya. Ayoko pang umuwi, I can't when something worse is
going to happen to me when I get home.. bugbugin ako ni dad.

"Stay at my place" sabi nya calmness in his tone and I nod allowing him to
take my hand again. I kept my head low as we walked passed my house. I
could hear yelling from inside, agad naman tumulo ang mga luha ko. 

They're fighting again.. and now it's because of me.. it's because I left. This is
my fault..

We finally stopped in front of the main door of a huge house. Percy opened
the door and a beautiful woman appeared on the other side.

"Oh my goodness! You're soaking wet!" aniya and I stayed silent. "Mom, stop
scaring her" Percy warned and his mother gave him a sly smile before she
turned to me again.

"My dear, may nangyayari nanaman sa bahay nyo? Come in, Xander called
Percy" nakangising sabi ni tita Angelica and I just nod slowly. 

Kaya pala di siya nag tanong, alam na niya, hinanap nya pala ako. Now I feel
like a burden to them. 

"Oh Anli honey, don't think you're a burden to us, we're always happy to help
your mother and brothers they've been so kind and helpful to us" Can she
read minds? Pa'no nya nalaman ang iniisip ko? 

"I'm a Psychologist I can read your face, sa kwarto ka nalang ni Kai matulog,
ang gulo pa nang guest room namin" sabi nya at umalis na sa harap namin.
Oh right I forgot. 

Wait! Ako?! Matutulog sa kwarto ni Percy?! But I always sleep in the guest
room! I looked at Percy to see him already looking at me and then he
genuinely smiled and pulled me up the stairs and into a room which I assume
is his. 
Puro white and grey ang colors sa room nya. Well mine is pastel grey and
purple. Ang linis nang kwarto nya walang kalat. Well except sa study table nya
mukhang may ginawa siya kanina. 

"Here, change into this, nando'n ang cr" binigay nya sa'kin ang isang shorts at
malaking black shirt sabay turo sa isang pinto malapit sa isa pang pinto. I just
nod my head and went in. 

Ba't ba ako napunta sa ganito? Why do I suddenly feel something strange?

There's this like feeling I cannot express. Ano ba talaga 'to? 

After changing lumbas na ako sa cr at nakita naka bihis na rin si Percy into a
black shirt and grey sweatpants. Naka upo siya sa kama nya. He looked at
me and patted the space next to him. And I sat down. 

"Percy, thank you for coming for me" pagpapasalamat ko sakanya at ngumisi
naman siya. He took the glass of water from his bedside and gave it to me. So
I drank it. 

"Do you know how much you worried me?" biglang sabi nya and he tucked
my hair behind my ear and faced me properly. Naka kunot lang ang noo ko
sakanya and he chuckled. 

"Rest Anli, you need it, I'll sleep on the couch, feel free to approach me if you
need any help, even if you need someone to talk to or when you need a
shoulder to lean on, I'll always be here" .
Chapter Five

I felt someone tapping my cheek kaya I opened my eyes to see Xander I

quickly stood up and enveloped my brother in a hug.

"I'm glad you're okay Anli" sabi niya and I broke away from the hug with my
eyebrows furrowed. "Akala ko ba nasa bahay ako ni Percy, ba't ako napunta
dito bigla?"

Xander chuckled and ruffled my now messy hair. I didn't give him a reaction
except my confused expression. And he cleared his throat before pulling me
out of my bed.

"We picked you up from the Lamuerte's kanina, babayaran mo ko ang bigat
mo" he teased and I threw a glare at him which only made him smile. "Di kaya
no! I'm fit di ako pareho sa'yo na mataba bleh" I teased back and stepped
away from him.

"Hoy soccer player kaya ako at may abs pa ako no"

I scrunched my nose and crossed my arms. "Anong abs? Nilagyan mo lang

yan nang pandesal kaya mukhang abs ew"

"Ah ganon, sige" he said and I looked at him confused. Then I saw a smirk on
his face kaya tumakbo ako papunta sa kwarto ni kuya Seb.

As soon as I got in I immediately jumped on him making him groan. Sorry

kuya pero kailangan ko munang magtago. There's a beast looking for me.
Kuya Seb opened his eyes and closed them back before placing his hands
over me and bringing me close to him.

"What are you doing here, Anli?" tanong nya and I shushed him kaya
napatingin siya sa'kin with furrowed eyebrows. I just kept my gaze on the
door. Narinig ko na ang footsteps ni Xander.
And then the door opened revealing Xander I scooted closer towards kuya
Seb but Xander immediately locked gazes with me and I mentally groaned. 

"Kuya oh si Xander" sumbong ko and Seb looked at both of us now sitting up.
I still stayed close to him. "What happened?" kuya asked Xander. Aba si
Xander lang? Sige sige..hmp. "Sabi nya nilagyan ko lang daw nang pandesal
ang tiyan ko kaya mukhang may abs" Xander complained and kuya Seb and I
laughed. 

"Hoy walang nakakatawa do'n" Xander said and kuya Seb shook his head
before turning to me. "Mag bihis ka na Anli, you still need to go to school"
kuya Seb and I nod before looking back at Xander cautiously. "Don't worry
walang gagawin si Xander sa'yo" kuya reassured and I smiled. 

I stood up and ran towards my room pero narinig ko pa ang huling sinabi ni
Xander bago ako nakapunta sa loob nang kwarto ko. 

"Taba ka diyan, ikaw nga taba ang pisngi!" 

I just rolled my eyes and chuckled. Buti nalang taba ang pisngi ko parang
siopao napaka annoying din kasi palaging kinurot nang mga kuya ko at ni
mommy. Napaka sakit. 

Hm, anong susuotin ko ngayon? Ay wait P.E unform lang pala ang susuotin
namin kasi may activity nanaman ang gagawin. One week kami may mga
activities na gagawin pero wala pang lectures kasi maghanap pa kami nang
club na sasalihan at mag explore nang campus. 

After taking a bath I dried myself and changed into my P.E uniform. Once I'm
done I took out my blow dryer and dried my hair para ma high pony tail ko
siya. Hm, kagabi ang lungkot ko ngayon ang saya ko na. And that's the affect
of my kuyas, palagi nalang nila ako pinasaya. 

Sigh, buti naman di ako nagkasakit umuulan pa naman kagabi. Pero uminom
naman ako nang tubig sa bahay ni Percy.. Oo nga pala ang feeling na
naramdaman ko kagabi habang nagbibihis ako. 
Ang feeling na iyon ay parang nagkaroon ako nang lakas at motivation para
mag aral nang mabuti para naman maabot ko talaga ang pangarap ko na
maging abogada. I could always count on Percy and my kuyas naman if ever
mabigat ang damdamin ko. 

Ang weird lang ni Percy kagabi kasi parang may pagka 'seductive' ang tono
nang boses nya, ewan ko nababaliw na ata ako. Si Percy? Maging seductive
sa'kin? Ano? May gusto siya sa'kin ganon? Psh never. Best friend ko lang
siya PERIOD. 

I sighed and took my watch from my vanity table to put them on and I took my
black rubber shoes and my white socks and put them on. Ayoko mag white
kapag pupunta ako sa school madumihan lang. 

Pagtapos kong maghanda bumaba naman ako at nagpunta sa dining room.

It's six thirty na in the morning and usually andito na si mommy at si dad pero
wala sila. Mga kuya ko lang ang meron. 

"Mom went to work already at si dad di pa rin nakauwi" Gavin said and I nod
before focusing on my food. 

"Wag kang mag alala Anne, konting tiis nalang lalayas na tayo sa bahay na
yan at iiwan natin si dad" kuya Oli said on our drive to Northern King High.
"Yes Anli, when you turn eighteen next year mom will sign the papers for
divorce" kuya Seb said and I smiled at the thought. 

Finally di na kami ma abuse sa lalaking 'yon, lalo na ako. Palagi nalang ako
ma verbal abuse, di siya mabuting ama at asawa. Kung pupunta man ito sa
ganito ba't pa ba sila nag kasal? 

Well that's something I can't meddle with. That's something my mom will talk
about when she wants to. I'm also grateful na nag kasal sila kasi kung hindi
walang kuya Seb, kuya Oli, Gav, Xander at ako! Lalo na si.. Laurie. And right
now we have two missions. 
"Walang magawa ang abogado ni dad, may abogada tayo matulungan ni Anli
ang abogado ni mommy, magaling naman si Anli, tsaka may credible
evidences naman tayo" Xander said and the rest agreed. 

"We need to put that bastard behind bars, he did enough damage now it's his
time to face the results of his damages" Gavin said with an expressionless
tone.

Papunta na ako sa classroom ko para ilagay ang bag ko do'n. Ang malas ko
talaga kasi nakasalubong ko pa ang isang bully na si Arman. Napaka kapal
nang mukha nang lalaking 'to. 

"Uy andito na ang puta" he mocked and I fought the urge to roll my eyes. May
dalawang kasama pa siya si Luke at si Ford. "Excuse me" I kindly said pero di
nila ako pakawalan. 

"Ano? Tatawag ka na ba sa mga kaibigan mo?" he asked and the others

laughed. "Ay wala ka palang kaibigan.. Sarili mo lang ang kaibigan mo" he
laughed and I took a deep breath in. Di ko na kaya I need to defend myself. 

"You're underestimating me Arman, alam mo? I'm tired with your shits, I really
am! Stop assuming without credible evidence! And stop meddling with
someone else's life!" I snapped. I really did. 

The hallway went silent for a bit before Arman broke that. He just walked
closer to me and stopped when he's inches away from me. 

"Natatakot ako" he mocked and his friend laughed. I was about to push him
away when he pushed me backwards again and again. I gritted my teeth and
was about to slap him when someone butted in. Nope dalawa sila. 

"You'll let my sister go or I will make that face of yours bleed" Xander coldly
said from behind me. Agad naman napaatras si Arman. He glared at Xander
before giving me a glare as well and walked away with his friends. 
"Oh? Di kayo aalis? Gusto niyo ba tatawagin ko si sir. Cuervo?!" I heard Percy
said threatening the crowd. Agad naman bumalik ang mga estudyante sa mga
classrooma nila oh kung saan ba. 

"Anli, are you alright? Tch sinabi ko naman sa'yo na tatawagin mo ko kapag
binubully ka ang tigas nang ulo sa pato" Xander scolded and I just shrugged. 

"Uy okay ka lang?" Percy asked and I furrowed my eyebrows at him "oo
naman bakit hindi?" I asked and he glanced at Xander first before returning
his gaze to me. "Di mo manlang papagalitan si Xander kasi tinawag kang
pato?" he asked and I chuckled. 

"I'll let it pass for now, I just felt my inner bitch rising" I winked at tinawanan
nila ako. Nag paalam na kami ni Percy kay Xander at naglakad papunta sa
classroom namin. 

Pag abot namin do'n sakto naman na may in announce ang dean namin.
Kaya nakinig kami. 

"To all students of  Northern King High please pay attention, Junior
Highschool students please proceed to the AVR rooms, Grade 11 students
please proceed to the gymnasium, Grade 12 students please proceed to the
field, that will be all thank you" 

Pagtapos nang announcement agad naman kami nagpunta sa gym, pero

tahimik kami kasi pagalitan kami kapag hindi kami tahimik at hindi kami naka
line. Senior highschool na kami at dapat alam na namin ang elegance, we
were taught to be elegant. 

Pagdating namin sa gym agad kami umupo sa bleachers may limang guro sa
gitna nang court at may dalawang mic. Ando'n pa ang dalawang coach isa sa
basketball at isa sa vollyball. 

Wag mo namang sabihin na maglalaro kami niyan? Argh nakaka pagod. Pero
fine try ko nalang mukhang fun naman ang vollyball at basketball. 
"Good morning students, for today's activity you will be divided into groups,
maglalaro tayo nang basketball at vollyball, first we will play basketball, I know
you already know how to play since you've learned this in your Mapeh subject,
so first let's start with the women" 

"Good morning, I am coach William and if you have any questions or

clarifications you can approach me, if you, need help you can still approach
me, now you will have to group your selves by six, let's have HUMMS vs
STEM first" sabi ni coach. 

Nagcheer naman ang mga lalaki at nagpalakpakan sila, si Percy naman

excited sa gilid ko at tinuruan pa ako sa mga tricks niya. Alam ko naman ang
tricks nya kasi pinapanood ko siya kapag game na nila, pinilit ako eh.

"Kaya mo yan Anli! Cheer ako sa'yo" Percy encouraged and I just smiled at
him before following the others to the court. 

Nasa left side ang HUMMS at nasa right ang STEM. Sabi ni coach ang
manalo sila ang maging teammates sa manalo na team sa boys. Kinabahan
naman ako kasi parang competition ang paningin dito nang iba. 

"Hi, diba ikaw si Anneliese Veloso?" A girl with light brown hair stood in front
of me while smiling and I just nod. "Diba sumali ka sa Sing and Dance club?
Hehe ako pala president nang club" sabi nya and I smiled. "Yes sumali ako,
and it's nice to meet you"

"Ako nga pala si Regina Kingsom" 

"Nice to meet you Regina" I smiled and she smiled back. 

We ended up being teammates.  Classmate ko ang isa pang teammate namin

at classmate ni Regina ang isa may isa pa kaming teammate na di namin
kilala pero atleast may team na kami.
Naglalaro na ang ibang groups at palaging STEM ang nanalo. Ano naman
ang nangyari sa HUMSS, malakas naman ang HUMMS ah. Sana may manalo
namam sa HUMSS parating STEM nalang. 

I glanced towards Percy's direction and saw him staring at me. I smiled and
he gave me a thumbs up. At ngayon kami na ang lalaro, wooh kinabahan ako,
lalo nang ako ang sasalo sa bola. 

Coach blew the whistle and I jumped high and luckily napunta sa'min ang
bola. And now Selyz has the ball. I ran around focusing my eyes on each
player. Papunta sila lahat sa direction ni Selyz. 

I stopped and made eye contact with Regina agad naman nya nakuha ang
sinasabi ko so I signalled Selyz to pass the ball to me. Agad nya naman
ginawa and I ran as fast as I could as I kept dribbling the ball. When Regina
came in view I passed it to her. 

Agad naman ako nag signal sa isang defense namin. I motioned Selyz to stay
near the ring at do'n naman siya nagpunta and now the other defense is with
me. Si Hazel naman sumunod kay Regina. 

Regina passed the ball quickly to me and I ran faster and passed the ball to
Selyz agad nya naman ito naishoot sa ring and we got one point. Todong
sigaw ni Percy at ang iba pang mga lalaki sa bleachers. 

We'll maks HUMMS have a win. Di pwede STEM lang palagi, let HUMMS
have their win. Ngayon nag request nang time out ang kabila kaya na circle
kami ngayon. 

"Ang galing mo Anneliese ah! Di na ako naniniwala sa mga rumors about you"
sabi ni Hazel at ngumisi lang ako sakanya. "We should do our best to confuse
them, ngayon alam na nila na sharp shooter si Selyz at fast runner ako, sino
pa ang mabilis tumakbo at sharp shooter?" 

"Ako, sharp shooter ako" Dayra said "Fast runner ako" Aria said as well and I
nod at the both of them. "Sige, Kira defense ka pa rin, Aria dalawa ang role
mo, defense at runner, dapat mag switch ka palagi, pero wag mong ipahalata
na runner ka din, Dayra wag ka mag pa halata na sharp shooter ka dapat
nasa gitna ka palagi"  I instructed and they nod their heads. 

"Kapag pinasa sa'kin ang bola sa'kin sila pupunta, they'll block my way and
Regina's way, kaya dapat malapit ka sa'kin Aria since defense ka rin, I'll
slowly pass it to you habang busy sila nag block sa'kin" 

"How will you do that when they're focus is on the ball?" Hazel asked and I
smiled. "I'll confuse them by fake dribbling" I said and they nod. "Aria, when I
pass the ball to you dapat tumakbo ka palapit kay Selyz and Selyz
immediately throw the ball in the hoop, pero kung kinalibut ka rin, ipasa mo
kay Kira and Kira run as fast as you could and pass it to Regina, kapag
napasa na kay Regina tatakbo si Regina at ipasa sa'kin, ipasa ko rin kay
Hazel and she will pass it to Dayra who will shoot immediately" I explained
and they nod. 

                                               -    Percival   - 

I smiled widely when Anli's team got the first point. Nakita ko pa siya nag
observe nang mga kalaban nya. Tinignan pa lang nya alam na nya anong
gagawin niya. I know she loves basketball di lang nya aminin. 

She looks so happy while playing and she looks so fierce when she gives
signals to her teammates. She's like the captain. Proud ako, at alam ko pag
nakita to ni Xander maging proud din siya. Tapos na ang timeout at maglaro
na sila para sa last point sa first set. Dalawa kasi ang set nila. At 2 points
each. 

"Ang ganda ni Annelise no? Napaka angas pa talaga" 

"Oo pre parang type ko na siya" 

I heard the two boys behind me said. I clenched my jaw and quickly turned
around and they instantly looked at me. 

"Pwede bang manahimik kayo? Naglalaro sila oh?" I said with an annoyed
expression and they apologised. Tsk, save your apologies assholes. 

Anli ran towards at the left side and Kingsom at the right side. Alam ko mga
surname nila, pina introduce kasi ni coach kanina. Ang may hawak nang bola
ay si Hazel nag dribble siya papunta kay Selyz pero na agaw sa kabila. 

Kita mo ang inis sa mukha ni Hazel, nakakatawa pero at tinawanan nga siya
ni Kingsom pero chill lang si Anli. Nag block naman ang dalawang defense
nila. Pero what shocked the crowd is that na agaw ni Aria ang bola at ang bilis
niyang tumakbo papunta kay Selyz. 

Hinarangan si Selyz at si Aria at agad namang lumapit ang isa pang defense
at si Anli. Nag dribble pa rin si Aria at napaka bilis nang pag dribble nya..but I
guess that was one of their tricks kasi tumakbo na si Anli habang hawak ang
bola at nag dribble. 

Nang nasa gitna sila pinasa ni Anli kay Regina ang bola at tumakbo naman si
Regina patungo kay Hazel. Alam siguro nito nang kabila kasi kinalibitan bigla
si Hazel but what shocked us is that pinasa ni Regina kay Kira na nasa
malayo at nasalo naman nya. 

Agad tumakbo si Kira at pinasa kay Anli, tumakbo naman si Anli but she u-
turned twice bago niya pinasa kay Aria ang bola. Tumakbo naman ito at
pinasa kay Hazel. And Hazel passed it to Dayra and she swiftly threw the ball
in the hoop. Another point! 

Wow this team is amazing. Anli's team won the first set. Sino kaya ang
manalo sa second? Baka ito ang first win nang HUMSS. Break nila ngayon at
habang uminom si Anli nang tubig na naka upo, nakatingin siya sa court, pati
na rin si Selyz nakatingin sa kabilang players. 
Anli's team is the perfect team. Mabilis sila lahat tumakbo, dalawa ang sharp
shooter nila, tatlo defense, mabilis kumilos. They have the skills, yet it's their
first time playing. Sus nagustuhan nila ang basketball pero ayaw sumali, sure
ako pinag aralan lang nila ang basketball at nanonood. 

Si Regina naman at si Kira perfect duo, nasa malayo naman ang isa pwede
pa rin nila masalo at mapasa ang bola. Same goes with Anli and Aria,
kinalibutan man ang isa sa kanila magawa pa rin nila mapasa ang bola at
tumakbo.

Perfect duo na rin si Anli at si Regina, pinagpasa pasa nila ang bola. Ngayon,
naglaro na sila. Nasa kabila ang bola. Pero agad na agaw ni Anli kaya
tumakbo na siya pinag pasa pasa ni Anli at ni Regina ang bola. 

I still don't get why can't the opponent steal the ball in the air? Ma agaw
naman nila kasi medyo malayo naman ang dalawang babae. Now Regina has
the ball and she's running towards the hoop pero nag u-turn. Tumakbo na siya
pabalik sa base nila. 

She stopped and muttered something before passing the ball to Kira na nasa
gitna. Agad naman tumakbo si Kira at pinasa kay Hazel ang bola tumakbo rin
si Hazel at pinasa kay Anli. And the cycle continues. Nang nasa kamay na kay
Aydra ang bola pinasa nya naman kay Selyz who threw the ball in the hoop. 

Ang galing! Wooh! Di naman nagamit ang tricks ko. Pero okay lang siguro
pwede na mamaya. Sa wakas naman nanalo ang team ni Anli at sila naman
ang last. So sila ang maging team namin. Oo agad ako nagsalita na sa'min
sila Anli haha. 

Ngayon ang laro ay HUMSS vs HUMSS, STEM vs STEM, GAS vs GAS at

ABM vs ABM. Di ko pa sure sino ang maging kalaban namin. Ka group ko ang
isang kaibigan ni Regina na si Noah. Nagpakilala naman si Noah sa'kin in
advance kanina no'ng naglaro pa sila. 
"Pawis na pawis ka na oh" I said as I wiped the sweat from Anli's face.
Umiinom pa ito nang tubig. May asthma kasi, pero kaya naman niya tumakbo
nang gano'n ka tagal. 

Sabi nya kasi kaya niya raw. Pumayag naman ako ang kulit kasi. No choice
na talaga. Dala nya naman ang inhaler nya at malapit lang ang infirmary dito. 

"Anong plan?" tanong ni Selyz at agad naman kami umupo sa sahig naka
circle. "May isa pa akong trick, gamitin natin ang trick na ito tsaka sa sunod
gamitin natin ang kay Percy, para sa second set mag bigay na kayo alam ko
na meron kayong ideas" sabi ni Anli at tumango naman ang iba at nakinig sa
kanyang plan. 

Hay nako last night she was so sad and fragile, I wish I could hold her in my
arms like a baby, she's like a porcelain doll that can break easily. But she's
tough I know she is. She's fragile in the inside and a fiery dragon in the
outside. In short she's a warrior. 

Alam ko na ang tingin niya sa'kin ay kaibigan lang pero tangina mahal ko siya,
mali ba yun? Mali ba na may gusto ka sa best friend mo? Kasi tol, mahal na
mahal ko ang babaeng 'to. Since day one. 

And I'd do anything to see her smile, to see her happy. I'll be her knight in
shining armor when her brothers aren't around. I'll scare those monsters away
and keep this warrior princess safe.
Chapter Six

-  Anneliese -

"Dala mo ba ang camera mo?" Regina asked and I nod showing her my
camera at napa 'yes' naman siya. "Upo muna tayo do'n habang hinihintay
natin si Noah at Percy" I said and she skipped along towards the empty
bench.

Nakakapagod ang ginawa namin kahapon. Grabe buong araw kami nag
basketball at vollyball feeling ko nagka abs na ako. After the activites may
announcement nanaman ang mga guro sa'min at kukuha daw kami nang mga
litrato sa mga paborito namin na lugar sa buong paaralan. Ipaliwanag daw
namin tsaka i-pilit sa isang bond paper.

Yan naman ang activity namin para ngayon. Ako ang may dalang camera at si
Regina naman ang may dala sa bond papers si Noah at Percy ang may dala
sa mga art materials kasi ang sabi ni Rina dapat daw presentable tignan ang
output naman kaya mag lagay kami nang designs.

Pagtapos sa mga activites kahapon agad kami nagpunta sa cafeteria para

kumain. Bigla lang din kami nag click ni Regina, todong daldal namin kahapon
even though pagod kami. At pag uwi naman agad ako nag shower tsaka
natulog. 

"Rina!" us both turned our heads to the person who called my new best
friend's name agad naman napa kaway si Rina sa kamay nya sa babae na
tumatakbo papunta sa'min. "Aly! Nakalimutan kong ipakilala ang best friend
ko sa'yo" Rina smiled excitedly.

Tumingin ang babae sa'kin kaya ngumisi ako sakanya pero nakatingin lang
siya sa'kin na naka poker face tsaka tumingin kay Rina.

"Are you replacing me?" the girl asked and Rina laughed. "Gaga di no!
Kayong dalawa ang best friends ko oa nito" Rina said and the girl pouted then
sat beside me. "I'm Althea Sky Dominguez, from class one, ABM student" she
smiled and I smiled back before introducing myself as well. "Anneliese Isis
Rosette Veloso, from class three, HUMSS student" 

"Ang taas nang pangalan mo, pero ang ganda" Rina complimented and I
thanked her. "Call me Aly, uhm how can I call you?" Aly asked and I gave her
a soft smile. "You can call me Anli" she nodded her head and was about to
speak again but her phone ringed. 

She mouthed sorry to us before answering the phone and walking towards a
tree where she can talk to the person privately. I have a weird feeling that
these girls will be my forever best friends. I don't know why but I do. And I
don't want to lose them, mukha pa naman silang mabait at masayang
makasama. 

They don't look like the friends who will leave you in the dust. I snapped out of
my thoughts when I heard Rina sigh beside me. I look at her and she looked
back with her lips pursed. 

"Ayan nanaman, pinapaalala nanaman nang mga magulang nya na kailangan

na mataas ang grades nya sa quiz, oral recitations at exams, poor Aly, palagi
nalang na pressure sa studies nya, kapag matanggal 'yan sa dean's list at
class one her parents will punish and scold her" Rina explained and I pursed
my own lips while looking back at Aly who looks frustrated. 

Poor Aly, hm.. How can I help her ba? I know since I somehow also have
knowledge in some things, I'll just help her if she needs help and I'll make sure
she's healthy and well. Sasamahan ko pa siya mag aral, kaming dalawa
kailangan mag aral, since kailangan ko ring pumasa haha. 

- Percy -

I stood there from afar watching Anli chatting with her newfound friends. I'm
proud of her. Sa wakas nakipag kaibigan na siya sa mga babae. She never
liked being friends with girls starting from that day. Tapos dinagdagan pa ni
Criezha, she's afraid to experience again what she experienced with her past
friends. 

And I witnessed all of it. Nung nakita nya na pinagtawanan lang siya nang
mga kaibigan nya when her friends backstabbed her. Kung ano ano ang
pinagsabihan nila tungkol kay Anli na masama. Anli was calm when she
approached them she still smiled. 

Pero pag uwi niya kasama ako, umiyak siya nang todo. She was a wreck and
during those times, sobrang bigat ang pinagdaanan nya. She was bullied all
the time, she was verbally abused at home, and her friends turned out to be
fake and toxic. 

She stayed with me for two days, her brothers were supposed to confront her
friends but Anli stopped them telling them it was a waste of time. And she was
right. It's done, it happened. Toxic na sila, sinaktan na nila si Anli. They're not
worth it. They're just immature people who still has the audacity to be that
way. 

And they've been friends for three years tapos maging ganyan sila kay Anli?
Sa lahat nang sacrifices ni Anli para sa kanila? Napaka kapal nang mukha
nila. Alien pa naman ang isa na hilig sumama ni Criezha na mukhang box ang
ulo. Mga gago. 

During those two days na nag stay si Anli sa bahay ko. Mom and dad treated
her like their daughter and we even made a video call with Miguel and his
sister Madeline. Let's just say she got better after that two days. And I'm proud
of her for being strong uptil now. 

I took out my phone from my pocket and sent a text to Noah telling him na
nahanap ko na sila. And when Anli stared at her other new friend si
Dominguez Noah arrived. And the two of us approached them. 

"Grabe andito lang pala kayo" Noah said panting at tumawa si Rina. "Oo, sa'n
ba kayo nagpunta? Ang tagal nyo, pinapawis nga kayo" Rina asked and Noah
sat in between them. 
"Pumunta kami sa classroom pero wala kayo, pumunta kami sa cafeteria wala
rin kayo do'n, pumunta kaming library wala pa rin so we decided to split up" I
explained at tumawa si Rina. 

"Hay nako why didn't you call any of us nalang?" Anli asked while patting the
beads of sweat away from my face. She even tiptoed to reach my height so I
placed my hand on her waist to support her. 

"Di namin 'yan naisip, kinabahan na kasi kami baka saan saan kayo nagpunta
ang dami pa talagang masama na tao sa labas nang school" Noah said and
Rina nod her head while Anli chuckled. 

Tapos na siya sa ginawa nya and she still standing next to me the face towel
on her hand and my hand still on her waist. 

"You're just like me when I couldn't find Percy the other day, alam ko na may
ginawa siyang masama kasi pati si Xander di nagsalita which is unusual, kaya
kinabahan ako kasi baka mapagalitan siya, pero nung tumawag ako di siya
sumagot kaya nainis ako no'n" she laughed the most beautiful noise I've ever
heard.

"Napagod ako, Anli dito ka upo isandal ko ang ulo ko sa shoulder mo"  agad
naman nagpunta si Anli sa tabi nya at sinandal nya nga. 

Lokong lalaki. Ako dapat 'yon, napagod din kaya ako. I heard Rina laughed
and walked over to me before whispering. 

"May nag seselos" 

Inirapan ko siya and walked farther away from the two. Sumunod naman si
Regina sa'kin. 

"Uy, wag kang magpahalata parang gusto mo na ngang sumuntok nang

pader" tawa ni Rina. "Di ako nanununtok nang pader si Anli lang" I stated and
she blinked twice. "Grabe bagay talaga sila ni Noah no? Pati si Noah
nanununtok nang pader kapag galit or frustrated"  at lalo akong nainis sa
sinabi nya.

"Pwede bang manahimik ka?" iritang sabi ko sakanya na ikakatawa lang nya.
"Uy wag ka nang mag selos, di bagay sa team captain nang Alphas, tsaka
wala ka nang magawa bagay sila"

Nakakairita talaga ang babaeng 'to. Bagay nga sakanya ang pangalan nya na
Regina, pareho sila ni Regina George nakakairita. Eugh kasalanan 'to ni Anli,
pinapanood nya ako nang 'Mean Girls' kasama nang mga kuya nya.

I looked back at the two on the bench and saw them talking to each other. Anli
smiling widely and laughing to who knows what that jerk is saying. Not gonna
lie Noah Enrick Verge is smart and rich he's also good looking pero tol ako
ang mas gwapo sakanya.

I know that Noah isn't serious with relationships ang dami na nyang babae at
lahat niloko nya. He's never serious, akala nya mahal na nya ang babae.
Akala nya lang, but no it's just mere attraction.

At kung magkatuluyan man ang dalawa sana hindi. Dapat talaga di nya
sasaktan si Anli sa huli kung sasaktan nya si Anli di lang ako ang  sumugod
sakanya kundi ang mga kuya nya rin at si Miguel.

Oh Anneliese Isis Rosette you're the most beautiful girl in my eyes you're the
only girl I want to be with. But in your eyes you see me as your best friend.
Yes you love me - in a friendly way. You're the only girl I want to be with but
you're out of my reach.
Chapter Seven

- Anneliese -

It's now Saturday at wala rito si dad may pupuntahan siya at si mommy
nakipag meet up sakanyang lawyer. Scheduled na kasi na next year a week
after my birthday or on my birthday my mom will sign the divorce papers.

The only ones left in the house is me, kuya Seb and Gavin. Xander is out with
his friends and kuya Oli is working on a school project with his groupmates.
Andito ako sa kwarto ko just sulking.

Kahapon pagtapos namin gumawa nang activity agad kami nag hang out ni
Rina at Aly pero pagtapos no'n hinatid ako ni Noah. Ang sweet nya tsaka ang
cool din. Parang nagkaroon na ako nang crush sakanya.. Slight. We'll see,
baka nagpamukhang mabait lang siya.

Bigla akong napatalon nang bumukas nang malakas ang pinto ko. I instantly
glared at the person who opened the door forcefully. Ba't ba ang hilig nilang
mag barge in? They're so annoying sometimes.

"Kuya Seb si Gavin oh di kumakatok!"  I yelled and my brother just stood there
raising an eyebrow at me. "Ano ka reyna?"

Ay wow. I glared at him and he walked towards me sitting on my bed. Ngayon

ko lang nalaman na kailangan pala maging reyna para kumakatok ang isang
tao sa pinto bago papasok.

"Sa susunod na di ka kakatok ako ang kakatok sa noo mo" I threatened and
Gavin rolled his eyes. "Yes your majesty"  he sarcastically said and I stood up
and pinched his sides.

"Gago" I muttered before leaning on my pillow. "Ano ba ang gusto mo?" I

asked and he looked away avoiding eye contact.
Napa kunot lang ang noo ko sakanya. I heard him sigh heavily before looking
back at me with a slightly nervous and serious look. Ano nanaman ang
problema nito? Ba't ba sa'kin siya palagi pumupunta kapag may problema
siya. Pwede naman si kuya Seb o si kuya Oli kasi panganay sila o di kaya si
mommy.

"Nag aaway kami ng girlfriend ko" 

Lies.

"Boyfriend. Wag mo na itago sa'kin I know you're gay" I subtly told him and he
was surprised to what I just said. "H-how? P-paano mo nalaman?" he
stuttered and my gaze softened.

"I'm your sister and the future lawyer of this family how could I not know?"

He still gave me an unsure look and gave a slow nod before getting lost in his
thoughts. Hay nako knowing Gavin he'll start questioning kung sa'n siya
nagkamali and he'll start doubting himself. Oh brother dearest I love you but
you really need to be braver.

"Gav, I love you for who you are no matter what your gender is, you're still my
annoying brother" I smiled when he chuckled at the annoying part but
continued afterwards. "You're strong and smart and adventurous, you don't
have to hide who you truly are because we love you for being you. I'm sure
kuya Seb, kuya Oli, Xander and mom will accept that you're not straight
because they love you how I love you" 

Tears started to form in my brother's eyes. I know he's been hiding his
sexuality for years now and I know he's seeing someone. He's got the same
problem as Percy. Both of them fear judgment. And telling them that it's okay
is huge happiness for me.

"Gavin Clifford West, you'll soon become a professional photographer, sabi

mo may mga meaning ang mga litrato mo well here's what I'm gonna say,
what's the use of these meanings when people can't see it?" 
Gavin quickly wiped his tears before facing me and answering. 

"Kung di nila makita di hanapin nila" itong kapatid ko napaka pilosopo rin. Ako
yata ang panganay sa kanilang lahat. I shook my head before hitting his arm.
"Seryoso kasi" I glared and he chuckled. 

"You tell me Anli what do they have to do when they can't see the meaning
behind a certain thing?"  

"They can't see it because you're not letting them see it. In order for a player
to complete the game before time's up the game master must give hints, so if
you don't hand out hints how can the others look for the meaning?" 

He opened his mouth for a second before closing them again. And now he's
thinking. You better understand what I mean Gavin or I really will flick your
forhead with my fingers. 

"So you're saying is that, I should tell the others about me being gay pero
since takot ako I should give hints instead? Is that what you're trying to say?" 

I smiled and nod my head but he frowned kaya kumunot ulit ang noo ko.
What's there to frown about? Ang ganda kaya nang suggestion ko. Why?
Gusto ba nya na magusap sila tungkol dito? Or ayaw nya sabihin sa kanila..
Oh shit I forgot about HIM. 

"Gavin whatever he says doesn't matter, he's not a father starting from the
day he ignored us and verbally abused us, we're here for you no matter what"
I reassured and he relaxed a bit. 

"I will think about it Anli" he smiled and I shook my head. "Don't think about it
do it, plan it, think about how you will hand out the hints" I said and he slowly
nod his head. 

"I will, now help me with my problem" he said and my face fell. I forgot about
that ekh dalawa pala ang problema nang lokong 'to. "Ang problemado mo" I
said as I ruffled his hair. 
"Andyan ka naman para tulungan ako" he smiled as he started fixing his hair
and I smiled as well before muttering. "True" 

I'll always be readt to help my siblings in every way I can. Kung gaano pa yan
ka lala I'll still be by their side using all my power ajd strength to help them. 

"Report" I said in my serious tone. Iba na ako kapag seryoso na ako. I'll be
really serious and focused. Gavin sat up straight and started fiddling with my
stuffed Llama. 

"Okay so my boyfriend and I got into a fight.. Ah how do I say this" 

I sighed and leaned forward. 

"Tell me the cause' and your side of your story oh and don't leave out your
thoughts about the problem" I said and he nod his head. 

"We fought because of a girl"  he cautiously said and I fought back the urge to
roll my eyes. A usual cause' of conflict in a relationship. Sigh why would they
even commit when they don't fully trust the other? Di ko talaga maintindihan
ang detail na 'yan. 

If may trust issues sila then they have to adjust. They need to remind
themselves na di lahat manloloko. Dapat naman magtiwala sila sa jowa nila.
Kapag manloloko talaga edi 'yon iwanan mo na. Gago' yon. But they should
not make false conclusions as well without proper and credible evidence. With
true facts. 

"Kasi si Vince, bisexual siya we've been dating for three years na, mag four
years na kami ngayong December four" he paused to look at me but I kept a
neutral expression. 

Grabe! Mag four years na sila tapos di nya man lang sinabi sa'kin?! Walang
tiwala ang kapatid ko sa'kin. Ako pa naman talaga ang tumulong sakanya sa
mga problema nya. 
"Sure Vince and I had our times na mag aaway kami pero lagi naman 'yon ma
s-solve, pero ito.. Iba 'to. Kasi involve ang ibang tao na di namin pamilyar, it' s
cheating" he paused again to take a deep breath in before continuing. Tahimik
lang ako rito nakinig sakanya. 

"So the past few days pareho kaming busy ni Vince sa acads, syempre busy
siya patapos na siya nang third year nya in college tapos ako mag third year
pa" Tumango lang ako bago siya nag salita uli. 

"Both of us were both stressed sa schedules namin and we couldn't find time
to spend time with each other na, tapos the other day invited ako sa isang
party syempre sumama ako, kailangan kasi ako mag unwind. Pero di ko
inaakalang papasok din si Vince sa loob ng bar na naka akbay ang isang
babae, hinalikan nya pa talaga, and that's it I confronted him, nag aaway kami
palagi nyang sinasabi na kailangan nya raw gawin 'yon"

I nod my head before sighing. I think I have to see his boyfriend para
matulungan ko sila. Mukha namang mahal na mahal ni Gavin ang Vince na
'yon. 

"Did you let him explain?" I asked and he nod his head. "Pina explain ko ka na
siya, tinanong ko siya pabalik balik kung bakit, bakit nya ba ginawa but he
keeps saying that he has to, he has to raw di ko maintindihan" 

"Gav, he has to nga diba? I'm sure na pareho kayong dalawa na tinatago ang
totoo nyong sarili, may reason siya Gav, lahat tayo mayroon sa lahat nang
ginagawa natin. Kaya kung ayaw pa niya sabihin saiyo, intindihin mo na lang,
malay mo kung ano ang pinagdaanan no'n, wait for him to be ready to share
his reason with you" 

Silent engulfed us for a moment before Gavin broke that by heavily sighing
and kissing me on the cheek before pulling me into a hug. 

"I guess you're right Anne, nadala lang siguro ako sa emosyon, thank you for
helping me always sis, I love you remember that but I'll always annoy you" 
Awe parang gusto kong manapak ng tao sa kilig. Oh just kidding hehe. Alam
ko naman mahal ako ni Gavin, I mean who doesn't? Siguro yung mga epal
lang at walang magawa sa buhay ang hindi. 

"Send mo sa'kin ang number ng jowa mo magiisip kana ng paraan para

mabigay mo ang hints sa kanila" I said and he looked at me with wide eyes.
"Anong gagawin mo kay Vince?" he asked and I rolled my eyes. 

"Chill bro, I'll just ask for his side of the story and get to know him, grabe mag
four years na di mo pa rin pinakilala sa'min? Lagot ka kay mommy" I teased
and now it's his turn to roll his eyes. "Usap lang ah? Baka mainlove ka sa
jowa ko lagot ka sa'kin" he warned. "Ano ako? Mang aagaw? Excuse you,
labas na bibili pa ako ng makain" I said pushing him out of my room. 

He continued laughing as he walked towards his room and I walked down the
stairs towards the living room where kuya Seb is studying. Pwede naman
siguro niya akong samahan. Saglit lang naman. 

"Kuya" I called and he looked up to me his eyebrows furrowed. "Samahan mo

ko bibili ng strawberry yogurt please" I pleaded and he went placed down his
highlighter and faced me properly. 

"Anli nag aaral ako, you can ask Gavin if you really want strawberry yogurt" he
said and I pouted. "Eh may ginagawa si Gav di talaga pwede ikaw nalang?" I
asked with a sad expression. 

"I'm sorry Anli but I have to continue studying, you can go on your own but
please be back as soon as you bought your yogurt" he instructed and I nod. I
guess it's me alone. 

I walked up to my room to change into my grey sweatpants and my red

cropped shirt. Naka pajamas lang kasi ako. After changing I grabbed my
phone and wallet before putting on my flats and walking out of the door. 
Naglakad ako patungo sa labas ng subdivision bago pumara nang trycicle.
Sumakay naman ako at sinabihan si manong na pupunta ako nang 7-11. Yun
lang kasi ang mas malapit. 

"Salamat manong"  I said before paying. Nang naka baba na ako agad naman
ako nag lakad patungo sa isang 7-11. 

Close kasi ang 7-11 na malapit sa subdivision namin. Kainis. Di ko na

pwedeng sabihan si manong na sa kabilang kanto pa ako nakakahiya naman.
I sighed and continued walking. 

But as I walk may nakasunod sa'kin na white van. I furrowed my eyebrows

and stopped at napahinto rin ang van. Lumakad ulit ako at nakasunod pa rin
ito. Bigla naman ako kinabahan kaya binilisan ko ang pag lakad ko. 

I decided to call kuya Seb at sa isang ring lang sumagot na siya.

"Kuya kinabahan ako, may puting van nakasunod sa'kin" 

[Ba't ka naglakad? Diba pwedeng mag trycicle ka Anli?] 

Boba mo.

"Nag trycicle kaya ako pero close ang malapit na seven-eleven kaya nag
lakad nalang ako papunta sa kabilang kanto" 

[Papunta na ako, stay on the line] 

I looked back and saw the white van stopped. At unti unting nagbukas ang
pinto nito. 

"Kuya huminto ang van tapos may papalabas, woy kinabahan na ako , iiyak
na talaga ako kuya kasalanan mo 'to gago ka" 

[I'm coming I'm coming, wag kang iiyak] 

Four men wearing all black including black caps went out of the van and they
started walking towarda me. I could feel tears forming in my eyes now. 

"Sa'n kana kuya?! Papunta na sila sa'kin tatakbo na ako bahala ka diyan"   I
cried.

[I'm near na] 

"Anong near?! Kanina ka pa nga nagsabi na papunta ka na kainis ka!" 

I saw the van started to move and the men are closer to me now and I widen
my eyes.

[I know I know] 

"Bahala ka kuya tatakbo na ako WAAAAAHHHHH YAWAAAAAAAAAAA" 

I ran as fast as I could to the nearest police station. Rinig na rinig ko pa ang
lakas na pagtakbo nang mga lalaki sa likuran ko. Pero walang wala sila sa
speed ko. 

Naka abot na ako sa police station pero wala pa rin sila. Amp mga mahinang
tumakbo! 

"Miss? Anong nangyari sa'yo?"  

A few minutes have passed and now I'm in Gavin's embrace with tear stained
cheeks. Pagtapos kong magpaliwanag sa mga police agad nila tinawagan si
kuya Seb. Luckily I remembered their plate number so I told the policeman
about that information as well. 

Nahanap na nila ang culprits at ngayon nag uusap sila kasama si kuya Seb at
kuya Oli na galit na galit. 
"Umiyak pa talaga ang bunso namin" rinig kong sabi ni Gavin and I snuggled
closer to him. Making him chuckle. 

Xander arrived and handed me a strawberry yogurt milk drink. I broke the hug
and happily took the yogurt from his hands and opened it. Later on my kuyas
walked out with a pissed look. 

Both of them looked at me with mixed emotions amd and those are worry,
anger and fear. And I just in the middle of Xander and Gavin, Xander's arms
draped around me.

"Gusto ko lang naman ng strawberry milk" I muttered but the four of them
heard which made them laugh. 

Kasalanan pa naman ito ni kuya Seb, ayaw pa ako samahan. Kuya Seb saw
read my face so he went towards me and ruffled my hair before trapping me in
his embrace. 

"I'm sorry Anli, I should've gone with you, I was so worried" he apologised and
I patted his back "it's okay kuya, natapos na and I'm safe, you can calm down
na" .
Chapter Eight

Sunday went by fast and now it's Monday. Classes are officially starting. And
today is our first meeting with the other club members. Percy knew what
happened yesterday and obviously Miguel knew as well. Regina and Aly also
overheard of it this morning.

Napaka daldal talaga ni Percy. And he's not even paying attention to our
teacher's introduction. Nakaupo lang siya sa tabi ko nag doodle nang kung
ano-ano sa yellow pad nya. Nakita ko pa nga pangalan ko do'n ano nanaman
ang kalokohan na 'yan.

"Ms. Veloso please stand and define Precision and Accuracy, this has been
discussed to all of you in tenth grade, refer this as a review of your lesson last
year"

Paborito talaga ako ng mga guro ko no? Nagagandahan lang siguro sila sa
pangalan ko. Well I can't blame them maganda naman talaga ang pangalan
ko. I studied this, I know this. You can do this Anli.

"Precision refers to the degree to which successive measurements agree with

each other, while, Accuracy means how close the measurements are to the
true value"

Everyone was quiet syempre alam 'to nang lahat. Sasagot na sana ang guro
ko pero nauna akong magsalita kaysa kaniya.

"For example, the true value is 80.00 cm, in trial one we have 49.02 cm in
sample A, 20.45 cm in sample B, 79.95 cm in sample C, while trial two we
have 49.01 cm in sample A, 50.76 cm in sample B, 80.0 cm in sample C,
however in trial three we have 49.00 cm in sample A, 60.95 cm in sample B
and 79.90 cm in sample C, so our average will be 49.01 cm in sample A,
44.05 cm in sample B and 79.95 cm in sample C"

I made sure to make eye contact with my classmates as I gave them the
definition of the said topics and the examples. I could see their surprised
looks. Dear classmates and a few students in school - you kept
underestimating me that's why you can't see my potential.

Everyone applauded and my teacher was yet about to talk again but I beat her
to it. Sorry miss.

"You will notice that sample A has data that agree with each other, it means
that there is high precision, however,  high precision does not necessarily
mean high accuracy.. in the example given, if the true value is 80.00 cm, then
the measurements in sample A are with high precision but poor accuracy.. in
sample B, the measurements show low precision and poor accuracy, in
sample C, the measurements show high precision and poor accuracy"

I finally nod my head and sat back down. Syempre kapag mag define tayo
nang topic kailangan merong example para naman the people or the person
you discussed it with will really understand. I deserve extra points ma'am.

"Thank you Ms. Veloso, you did well"  I just smiled in response before
glancing at Percy who is giving me his 'Meganon' look.

Our teacher began discussing and of course I'm listening pero itong si Percy
daming sinasabi di na ako makapag focus.

"Talino yorn?"

"Manahimik ka nakinig ako"  I heard him 'tsked' so I raised an eyebrow at him

making him lift both his hands up in surrender.

"Oy bro kilala mo naman si Anneliese diba? Yung si Ms. Veloso?, best friend
ko yan bro"

I pulled Percy back to his chair making a loud thud kaya napatingin sa'min ang
guro at ang iba pang kaklase namin.
"Di nakinig si Percival ma'am nakipag daldalan pa talaga" I said and our
teacher gave a warning look towards Percy. Percy then gave me a look of
betrayal.

As if naman ipagtanggol ko siya? Pinapahiya pa ako kapal nang mukha nya.

Nakakahiya naman, nobody ang tingin sa'kin nang ibang tao rito sa paaralan.
Pinakalat kasi ng mga bullies ko na bobo ako, leader ng "ISIS", sinampal ang
mukha.

Hay nako. Bahala sila kung ano ang iisipin nila sa'kin. Di naman importante
ang opinion nila. Plus sino ba ang nagtanong para sa opinion nila? They're
just wasting their time cause' now, wala na akong pake.

"Hoy!"

"Ay baboy!" 

"Baboy? Di ako baboy no!" Percy chuckled and I glared at him. "Ba't ka ba
kasi nanggulat? Makinig ka nalang kaya sa discussion?" mataray kong sabi
sakanya and he chuckled again.

"O sige ikaw lang magisa rito makinig sa wala" he said and I furrowed my
eyebrows in confusion. Makinig sa wala? I looked around and saw that almost
everyone is walking out of the classroom wala na rin ang guro namin sa
harap.

"O ano? Mag lunch kaba o hindi?" Percy asked and I rolled my eyes while
picking up my bag. Half day lang kami ngayon cause' for the rest of the
afternoon we'll spend it in our first club meeting.

As soon as Percy and I walked out of our classroom naglakad na kami

papunta sa kabilang paaralan. We'll have lunch with Miguel again. I guess it's
gonna be part of our daily routine now.

"Where's that oldie? Ang tagal niya"  Percy complained and as if on cue
Miguel arrived. "I'm sorry for keeping you guys wait and Percy when a person
loves to listen old songs and likes having vintage things doesn't mean they're
an oldie, Anli does love vintage stuff ajd we're not oldies we're classy" Miguel
said while crossing his arms.

"Oo na ikaw na kainis"

I laughed and patted Percy's back but he just rolled his eyes causing me to
laugh again. Hay nako this kid.

"Pareho talaga kayo ni Anli no? May pa haba haba pa nang sagot" as Percy
said that Miguel and I rolled our eyes and Percy scoffed. "Ba't ba kasi ang
tagal mo?" Percy asked.

"Some girls were blocking my way" Miguel answered and that perked my
interest. "What do they want?" I asked and Percy's gaze instantly snapped to
me. "Wow para kang nagseselos na girlfriend" he said and I scrunched my
nose in disgust. "Ew" I muttered pushing Percy away.

Miguel chuckled before answering me. "They kept asking me to speak French
and most of them always give me letters and gifts which is really
overwhelming" he said and I nod my head. "Hope everyone" I sassed and
Percy pushed me slightly.

"Yan ang sana all sakanya" Percy chuckled and Miguel just nod his head. We
were about to leave when a freckle faced girl stood in front of us correction in
front of Miguel.

"Uhm ibigay ko lang po sana 'to sa'yo" she said in a whisper like tone. The
three of us looked at the pink envelope she was holding and Miguel smiled.
"Thank you" he said taking the envelope from the girl's hand.

"Ang gwapo mo po" the girl said before sprinting away from us. Weird haha.
"Ang gwapo mo po" Percy mimicked and I slapped his arm. "Of course I'm
good looking" Miguel said which made Percy and I look at each other. "Lies"
us both said in sync.
"Mas gwapo pa ako kaysa sa'yo bro" Percy said and I just rolled my eyes at
him. To be honest they both are good looking. Pareho maputi, matangos ang
ilong, soft lips like seriously nag lip balm ba sila everyday? Tapos mataas pa
sila.

But I won’t tell them that cause' they're gonna be so full of themselves.
Sometimes I want someone to step on their ego. Nakakairita sila minsan. I
would gladly do it myself but that would result into an argument and these two
always splurt out nonesense things.

We were near na to our destination but someone suddenly pulled my wrist

causing me to stumble a little but the same person caught me.

"What the hell dude?" Miguel asked a bit pissed. I looked up to see a good
looking boy, yeah he is. "Sorry, I'm Julian Acosta" he introduced. Mukhang
schoolmate sila ni Miguel pareho kasi ang logo sa uniform nya sa paaralan ni
Miguel.

"Tinanong namin?" Percy said and I stepped back a bit pero Julian pulled me
back. "How may I help you?" I asked and he finally looked at me with a wide
smile on his face.

"I think I like you no love, I think I love you" he said and I blinked twice before
taking back my wrist from his hand. "Thank you" I smiled but his faded but he
shook his head and asked again. "Will you date me?"

Percy was about to come forward but I pushed him back. And smiled at
Julian.

"That's the wrong question, it should be will I return the feelings?, go ahead
ask me again" I urged and he nods. "Will you return the same feelings Ms.
Veloso?"

Gusto ko nang masuka. Kadiri, sure ako kapag andito si Maddy nagkaroon na
nang pasa ang lalaking  'to.
"No" I said and his smile turned upside down. "Wanna know why? One we just
met and two you don't know really know me"

Magsalita pa sana si Julian but Miguel stopped him by standing in front of me

with his arms crossed. Percy also placed his arm on my shoulders.

"She's off limits mr. Acosta" Miguel said his voice cold. Julian glared at the two
boys before stomping away. Ano 'to? Dalawang cheesy cringey moments sa
isang araw? 

"I'm planning to audition for The Voice" Miguel announced while we were
eating. I smiled at him and tapped the table with my finger twice. "That's good!
When are you planning to audition?" I asked.

"December" he said and I smiled at him. "That's good Migs, you should do it,
you have a nice voice naman and I'm sure everyone will love you" I stated and
he smiled. "Thanks Liese"

"Grabe si Beaulieu pinupuri mo pero ako hindi? Ouch" Percy said and I rolled
my eyes. "Ano? Sasali ka rin ba sa The Voice?" mataray kong sabi and he
shook his head. "Di naman pero feeling ko si Miguel na ang favorite mong
best friend" Percy assumed.

"Di naman sa ganon, wala naman akong favorite, pinupuri din kaya kita"

"Weh? Kailan?"

"Everytime you win a game, you continued practicing even though you're
tired, when you pass a quiz, when you delivered the words well during an oral
recitation and when you're overcoming your fears"

"Oo na oo na"

Miguel and I laughed and continued eating. I'm really glad I have them with
me at all times. What would I do without them? 
*****

We're now back at campus but Percy and I are seperated because he's in the
basketball varsity team and I'm in the Sing and Dance club. There are 30
people I think? And Regina is the president of this club.

"Okay people alam ko na first meeting palang natin ngayon pero malapit na
rin ang birthday ni Dean, oo, nag celebrate tayo nang birthday ni Dean every
year at walang klase for two days, ngayon pinasayaw tayo, may mga roles na
ako rito kaya makinig kayo sa'kin" Rina announced and cleared her throat
before continuing.

"Our songs are Pretty Savage by Blackpink, Solo by Jennie Kim, Loveshot by
EXO, Tempo by EXO, 16 shots Blackpink dance cover and lastly Good Thing
yung kay Lisa"

"Ang dami" I muttered and Noah chuckled from beside me. "Ganyan talaga si
Rina, she's different when she's in charge" Noah said and I hummed in
agreement. "I could tell"  I said and the both of us chuckled.

"For Pretty Savage we have Veloso Anneliese as Lisa, Kingsom Regina as

Rosé, Cruz Zoella as Jennie and Mendez Ara as Jisoo, Oo kakanta rin tayo
Sing and Dance club nga diba?" 

I stood there a bit shocked because Rina picked me. Nakakahiya mas lalo na
nila akong e bully. Eugh.

"Next Solo, Cruz Zoella as Jennie Kim, and the backup dancers will be you,
you, you, you, you, you and you"

Nakakatakot ang mukha ni Rina napaka seryoso. She's really serious and
focused. I guess being the president really means something big to her.
She started announcing the names of the dancers in Loveshot and Tempo
and Noah was in them I think he was Chanyeol? I'm not sure. Basta ando'n
siya. For 16 shots syempre kaming apat pa rin.

"Lastly Good Thing, Veloso Anneliese same pa rin ang backup dancers" 

I widen my eyes when Regina announced my name. No way! She can't do

this. She knows that I'll get bullied more.

"You can't make her change her decisions, pinaghandaan niya yan,  plus I
know you'll do great" Noah said and I pursed my lips before thanking him.

"Clear the place let's practice now! Zion, Noah kayo ang magaling sumayaw
kayo mag turo sa mga lalaki, now move!" Rina ordered and everyone started
moving.

We watched the dance video twice and danced with the video twice as well
before memorising the steps and formation. Nakuha naman namin agad it's
also because Rina is a good instructor at dapat makuha mo talaga ang dance
step or else yari ka kay Rina.

"Good now from the top!" 

When Rina said that we heard someone from the boys say: "Make it drop!"
which made Rina glare at him and her response was: "I'll make you dance
that one as your solo"

Everyone laughed. Though we didn't know if she was serious or not cause'
she really looked scary kanina. But she didn't scold any of the girls. Once na
memorize namin ang Pretty Savage we started to practice on 16 shots.

Regina said we'll be practicing Pretty Savage and 16 shots for two weeks and
then for one week Zoella and I will be practicing our solo parts together with
the back up dancers.
Siyempre while we're practicing the Pretty Savage and 16 shots the back up
dancers are also practicing their parts. Yung mga walang role naman, sila ang
magiging makeup artist at stylist namin. May isa rin sa'min na maging host.

This is going to be a looong month. Now I know why they let us have the rest
of the afternoon for club meeting. 
Chapter Nine

"Mommy! Sa'n kana?!" I yelled pero walang sumasagot. "Ay! Shit! Kuya!"  I
yelled again and all of my brothers came running into my room. "What
happened?! What's wrong?!" Kuya Seb asked and I point my finger towards
my  bed.

Naka tayo ako sa isang upuan sa kwarto ko at nakahawak nang bug spray.
Ma le-late na siguro ako dahil dito.

"What's with your bed?" Kuya Oli asked and before I could answer gumalaw
ang isang spot sa blanket ko kaya tumakbo ako papunta kay Gavin. "May
mouse sa diyan palabasin nyo" I urged and my brothers shared glances with
each other.

"Ba't ba nakapasok ang daga sa kwarto mo?" Xander asked and I shrugged.
"Baka pinapasok siya nang hari nya" I accused and all of them looked at me
in confusion. "Si dad" I clarified and they nod. And I heard the vibration of
Gavin's chuckle.

Kuya Seb pulled the blanket up and it revealed the mouse. I held Gavin tighter
and furrowed my eyebrows as I watched my elder brothers take the mouse
away from my bed. Kinuha pa talaga ni kuya Oli ang jar ko para do'n ilagay
ang mouse.

"Ew maghugas kayo nang kamay" I said as they walked towards the door and
Gavin and I are near the doorstep. "Oo na, sa garden ko lang ipalabas ang
daga" Kuya Seb said before walking out.

"Go get ready Anli" Kuya Oli said before following kuya Seb. Nakayakap pa
rin ako kay Gavin and he's the only one who stayed in my room with Xander.

"Ako siguro ang paborito mong kapatid no?" Gavin asked and I 'tsked' before
walking towards Xander and hugging him. "Awts gege"  Gavin said
sarcastically and we laughed.
I liked hugging my brothers it brings comfort to me. And I don't have a favorite
because I love them equally just like my friends. And out of all of my siblings I
enjoy Gavin and Xander's hugs.

"Mag handa ka na pato may pasok pa tayo" Xander said which ruined the
mood! I broke the hug and glared at him. Making Gavin laugh. "Pato pato
quack quack" Gavin sang and I glared at him as well before pushing them out
of my room.

"Mag sama kayo mga kumag!"  I said and closed my door in front of them.
Hay nako they really love to wreck someone's mood.

******

Pag abot ko sa paaralan agad naman ako sinalubong ni Noah at Rina. Nasa
loob daw si Aly sa classroom nya nag aaral. I'm gonna stay with her later and
study with her. Percy is in the gym kasi may meeting sila saglit at ang sabi ni
Rina na sa Gym daw kami mag practice kasabay ang varsity team.

The whole morning is given to us to practice. Yung mga kasali sa pag handa
sa birthday ni dean. And that's the committee, varsity team, sing and dance
club, photography club, computer whiz club and Volleyball team.

Yung iba nagkaklase habang kami mag practice. Noah got called by his
teacher kaya napaiwan kami ni Rina sa labas nang gym saglit.

"Uy balita ko sasayaw ka? Ha wrong choice Regina ba't mo pa pinayagan ang
iaang bobo na sumali sa club mo?" Arman asked with Criezha and Jeff behind
him.  "Pake mo? Ang galing kaya ni Anneliese sumayaw" Rina said and I
gratefully smiled at her.

"Oh kamusta naman ang leader ng ISIS? Magpatulong ka na ba sa mga

kaibigan mo? Ay kaibigan mo lang pala ang sarili mo" tawa nya. "Can you
leave?" I asked but more like stated. "English ang puta" he snickered and I
didn't answer anymore.
"Ano ang mali sa paggamit nang English Arman? We were taught to speak
English and be elegant unlike you na palaging pinabayaan" Rina retorted and
I tapped her shoulder to stop but she ignored me.

"Alam mo naman pala na mali ang sinabi nya ba't mo pa sagotin? Wala lang
naman 'yun sakanya hays and if you'll insist on your rights..kilala mo ba siya?
Close kayo? Medjo harsh ang sinabi mo na unlike you pinabayaan lang hoy
sino ka para magsabi nang ganyan? Kung maging ganyan ka dapat maging
sure ka na ikaw ang nag alaga sakanya napaka sakit naman 'yan para sa tao
di mo naman alam kung ano ang pinagdaanan nya, big yuck kung ganyan ka
te" Creizha bombarded.

"Grabe pwede ka nang maging lawyer Creizha" Jeff stated. And I heard Rina
chuckling beside me before clearing her throat and faced Criezha properly
with her arms crossed.

"May pinagdaanan pala siya ba't maging ganyan pa siya? Why not be a better
person? Let me inform you that words coming from the person who hurt you
badly from the ones who damaged you will sound differently to the person,
also, napaka kapal nang mukha mo magsabi nang ganyan bakit? Did you
consider Anneliese's feelings before you started hurting her? Inisip nyo ba na
may pinagdaanan ba siya o wala? Oo alam ko harsh ang sinabi ko but THAT
DOESN'T COMPARE TO HOW MUCH DAMAGE YOU'VE DONE TO HER, a
big yuck to you te!"

"Nag tanong lang naman din ako tapos pinalakihan mo pa daming satsat
akala mo walang damage ang ginawa meron pala, pabida ka ghorl?"

I was about to pull her away when Arman spoke. And that made me pissed.

"Noon ka pa ganyan Anneliese parang baliw palaging magpatanggol sa

kaibigan" 

Rina was about to say something but I beat her to it.

"What the fuck? You're underestimating me? I'm tired like I'm done with your
shits, I didn't ask them to defend me they did that with their own will you piece
of shit, stop assuming without credible evidence!" I retorted.

"Natatakot ako" he mocked and I sarcastically answered with "Funny". 

"Pwede mo lang naman pabayaan kailangan pa talaga ipalaki ang gulo?"
mataray na sabi ni Criezha and I scoffed.

"Wow! Kayo ang nag palaki nang gulo! Look at yourself love, A BIG YUCK TO
YOU MOTHER FUCKER" I retorted and left. And now we're in the halls.

Rina sat down on the bench and she kept cursing. She told me she badly
want to rip their hairs off but I told her not to.

"Anli!" I looked towards the direction of the voice and saw Noah running
towards us. As soon as I stood up he immediately enveloped me in an
embrace. "I saw everything, pasensya na hindi ko kayo napuntahan ang
daming sinasabi ni sir" he explained and I patted his back in reassurance.

"It's okay Noah" I said and he nod still hugging me. Then Rina stood up and
faced me. "Anli you are a great person, you're so talented and beautiful, we
don't believe any of those rumors about you and I know you're strong and
capable of defending yourself, so please next time when they try to hurt you
and none of us are there, defend yourself, please" Rina pleaded and I pursed
my lips.

Noah broke away from the hug and faced me. "She's right Anli, you have to,
let them know no one can mess with you"  I looked at Noah and back at Rina
while pursing my lips.

I guess I really do have to defend myself. Masanay lang sila na hindi ako
lumalaban na hindi ako nagsalita. I guess I have to partly let the beast in me
out.

"Spread the word. No one can mess with a Veloso" I smirked.

*****

"Aly what does this mean?"

Andito kami sa library ngayon nag aaral. Rina is in the Gym na monitoring the
boys as they practiced. Sabi niya boys muna. Kaya andito ako sa library
ngayon nag aaral kasama si Aly.

"Anli you know this ang simple lang nyan if you listened mag aral ka nang law
diba? Therefore you know that, Anli tell me what's bothering you?"  she asked
and I sighed.

Well totoo naman alam ko ano ang ibig sabihin nang Anthropology. I'm just
not sure if I made the right decision. It's bothering me.

"Sabi kasi ni Noah at Rina na kailangan kong itanggol ang sarili ko di ko raw
dapat hinayaan ang iba na saktan ako they were so persistent that I agreed
but now.. I'm doubting my decision" 

She closed her book, placed her pen down and faced me with a straight face.
Nakakatakot din si Aly wala siyang emosyon ngayon.

"What makes you doubt your decision? Tama nga na pumayag ka and what
they're saying is right, you can't let someone hurt you or they'll hurt you again
and again, learn to defend yourself"  she stated and linked her fingers
together waiting for my response.

That's not it. I'm just..

"Natakot ako na baka mas malala pa ang gagawin nila na lumalaban na ako
they'll just bully me kapag wala si Xander and Xander is not around all the
time may iba siyang inaasikaso because he's graduating"   I confessed and
Aly sighed.

"You're capable of doing it so why not? You mentioned na wala si Alexander

palagi and that gives them more advantage on hurting you, he's graduating
Anli, next year magisa ka lang, start showing them that a Veloso is not
someone you can mess with" 

Hearing it saying from her makes me want to cry. I kept reminding myself that
Xander won't be here next year, mag isa nalang ako. And hearing someone
say it makes me sad. Oo naman makita ko si Xander sa bahay but we won't
be with each other in school because he'll be in college. It makes me sad that
I would be seperated from him. He'll be super busy nanaman like the rest.
Who will I turn to now?

"Look the first time I saw you I know you have something in you, I mean every
Veloso sibling, you have fire in your veins let that fire out" 

Sigh. I guess I should do this. I mean I may cry or whatsoever cause' I'm a
sensitive person but that's what makes me strong.  I am strong, I am capable
of defending myself. They should not mess with me because I'm a Veloso.

And a Veloso is not one to be messed with. 

"Anneliese! Dance properly!"  Rina scolded and I slouched my shoulders.

"Regina I'm just saving my energy" I reasoned and she gave me a cold look.
Where's the Regina who defended me awhile ago? She's scary when she's
like this.

After that talk with Aly tinawag na kami ni Rina na mag practice and she's
always scolding the girls. Well mostly me and the backup dancers. Problema
nya? I'm just really saving my energy. Tsaka nanonood ang varsity team
nakakahiya.

"Mas marami pa ang manood sa event kaya it's better to start practicing on
removing that mahiyain side of you right now, varsity team lang naman ang
manonood tsaka si coach"  Zoella said and I nod.
She can read expressions and it's annoying sometimes. Like privacy please?
But oh well it's also useful.

"Again!"  Rina yelled and we went back to our positions and started dancing
again. This time I danced properly ignoring the fact that the varsity team is
watching and Percy is there.

I know he'll tease me later bahala na siya dyan kailangan kong sumayaw
nang maayos para di masigawan sa best friend ko.

"Well done Anneliese" Rina smiled and I smiled back. The others clapped
their hands and it was break time for us. Nag pa break time si Rina kasi
sumayaw na raw ako nang maayos. Kaloka na babae.

Nakakapagod grabe. I should've saved my energy may klase pa kami

mamaya hapon. And I'm tired. Baka maka tulog ako sa klase. This is a sign
kailangan ko na mag exercise para di ako madali mapagod.

"Pagod?" Percy asked and I tiredly nod and laid my head on his shoulder.
Gusto na matulog kulang pa naman ang tulog ko. "Ang galing mo kanina ah"
he said and I lift my head up and pinched him.

"Aray why are you pinching me?! Grabe ayaw mo nun? Sinabihan ka na
ngang magaling kang sumayaw, baliw" 

"It sounds like you were saying it sarcastically" I said and he jokingly placed
his palm on his chest. "Ganiyan na ba ako ka loko sa isip mo? Ouchie" he
said and I scrunched my nose in disgust because his voice was high pitched
when he said 'ouchie'  and all he did was laugh.

"Oy nakita ko sa campus group page ang nangyari kanina, okay ka lang ba?"
he asked and I said. "I'm fine" I said and he nods "Sure ah? Ang astig mo pa
kanina" I just smiled before nodding and returning my head back on his
shoulder.

"Percy?"
"Ano?"

"What if I start defending myself?"

"Well it's about time!" he yelled causing everyone to turn to us so I pushed him
away. "Nakakahiya ka" I said and he rolled his eyes. "You should defend
yourself"

"I know and I will" 

Chapter Ten

Right now I'm with kuya Oli we're going to the mall kasi may group project
nanaman siya at sinama nya ako kasi wala naman akong magawa sa bahay.
Wala kaming pasok ngayon.. Well us na sasali sa preparation may meeting
ang presidents so we have the morning as a break.

"Kamusta practice nyo?" he asked and I shrugged. "We're doing well" I replied
and he nod. "Kuya ako nalang ang matira sa paaralan next year" I sadly said
and he chuckled. "It's your last year magsama pa rin naman tayo after next
year, focus on that Anli" he said and I nod.

"Uy Oliver! May dala kang chicks ah girlfriend mo?" one of his friends asked
and I looked at my brother in disgust before saying aloud "ew"  kuya chuckled
behind me and shook his head.

He didn't say anything umupo lang siya so umupo lang ako. I think he's having
fun. When the snacks arrived they started discussing. Di naman ako ma bored
may dala akong aklat and mag aaral na rin ako.

"Excuse me" rinig kong sabi nang babae sa katabi ko. I looked her and gave
her a confused look. "I'm Andrea Velgoeiza, Oliver's girlfriend"  she
introduced. "I'm Anneliese you can call me Anl" I smiled before looking at kuya
Oli and hitting him on his arm.

"What? Ba't parang galit ka?" he asked and I glared at him. "What Anli? What
did I do?" he asked again and I hit him again. "Wala raw siyang hinihintay ha!
Sinungaling! Well alam ko naman 'yun" I said and he looked at me confused.

"Is she your new girlfriend Oliver Jace?" ate Andrea from behind me said with
gritted teeth and that's when kuya Oli knew what I was pertaining to. "Ate ew"
I said. "Aba-" I know she's gonna say something mean so I cut her off.

"Si kuya Seb nalang ang hihintayin ko haha!" I devilishly smiled. "You crazy
woman" kuya Oli said before ruffling my hair. Then he stood up to kiss ate
Andrea on the lips in front of me. When he went back I gave him a blank look.
"Really? In front of me?" I asked and he chuckled.

"What's happening?" ate Andrea asked and I smiled at her. "I'm not kuya's
girlfriend kadiri lang ikaw lang ang girlfriend niya" I said. "Then who are you?"
she asked. "I'm his sister" I smiled and she widen her eyes. "Oh my goodness
you're trouble?!"

Trouble? Anong kalokohan 'yan. I looked at kuya Oli who averted his gaze
away from me. I heard ate Andrea laugh so I looked back at her.

"That's his nickname for you" she said and I turned to kuya Oli again.
"Babayaran mo ang ginamit mong jar para sa mouse" I said and he rolled his
eyes. I stood up to get a glass of water and I heard ate Andrea squeel silently.

"You're posture is so good! I want to make an outfit for you na" she said and I
awkwardly smiled. "Oh goodness I love your hair and your plump lips!"

"Mahal you're making my sister uncomfortable" kuya Oli said and ate Andrea
giggled. "I'm sorry dear" she apologised. "It's okay" I reassured. "Tss pa
humble" kuya Oli said making me say "manahimik ka!"

I was about to study again when I felt my phone vibrate. I checked to see what
it is and saw kuya Vince's name pop up. I smiled and excused myself.

"Call me kapag tapos na kayo kuys" I waved and kuya nodded his head. I
went out of the café and started walking towards a different one. I saw a guy
with blonde hair wearing a dark blue sweater and black pants sitting at a table.

I smiled and sat down in front of him. He looked up at me and I smiled at him.

"The Veloso family is good looking" he muttered and I chuckled. He smiled

and passed me a strawberry shake. "How did you know I like strawberries?" I
asked and he shrugged. "Palagi kang kinukwento ni West sa'kin" he blushed
and I smiled.
"My full name is Vincent Jesse Laurel" he introduced and I nod. "Well mine is
Anneliese Isis Rosette Veloso" I smiled and he looked at me with admiration.
"Your name is beautiful" he said and I smiled.

"Well kuya Vince can you please tell me your side of the story?" I asked and
he sat down properly. "I didn't cheat on him y'know, I love him so much to
even do that" he started and I nod. "I'm guessing you and Gav have the same
issue - afraid of telling the family your true sexuality" I said and he looked at
me surprised before nodding.

"My family wanted me to have a girlfriend  and I always refused them and now
they threatened me with my profession, they told me that if I don't date the
one they specifically chose for me they'll pull me out of college so I had no
choice but to follow them"

he paused and looked at me if I havent any comments but I only urged him to
continue. He took a sip on his iced tea before continuing.

"Sasabihin ko sana kay West pero di ko alam kung paano, then my classmate
sent an invitation to a party, di ko alam kung paano na laman nang mga
magulang ko but they told me to bring the girl to the party at may mga
guwardiya ang mga magulang na sasama, I had to act like a real boyfriend to
the girl, she doesn't like me as well may iba siyang mahal and we pity each
other"

I stayed silent and waited for him to continue. Having Gavin mad at him must
be hard for him. Ang gulo nila mahal pa naman nila ang isa't isa pero ayaw
nilang makinig sa mga paliwanag akala siguro nila nasa isang pelikula sila.
Continue dreaming Vince and Gav it's free.

"Call Gav, tell him your reason, you love each other? Fight for your love"  I
said and he blinked twice. "Tell Gav your reason and together tell your
families your true self, it's better to be who you really are than to be someone
you're not" I said before drinking my shake. Mm.. This is good.
"You..you're.. wow, okay I'll take your advice, thank you Anneliese" he smiled
and I waved my head at him. "Call me Anli" I said and he nodded his head.
"Let's hang out?" he asked and I smiled widely. "Arcade!" I cheered and he
chuckled.

Kuya Vince is really a nice man and I know both of them are lucky to have
each other. They may have encountered multiple ups and downs but that's
part in a relationship. And that's how you understand more about your other
half. That's how both of you grow. And I'm really happy that these two are
happy with each other. They are each other's home.

"Why are you smiling?" kuya Oli asked and I blinked twice before looking out
of the window. Pauwi na kami ngayon and I had fun with kuya Vince. "Baliw" I
heard him say so I threw him a glare.

"Makasabi ka nang baliw sa'kin akala mo wala kang kasalanan ah" I said and
he suddenly pulled the brakes making me fall forward. "Aray ko kuya! Ba't ka
huminto?!"

"Wag kang manakot habang nag da-drive ako" he scolded and I rolled my
eyes. Takot ba yun? Hindi naman ah oa nang kuya ko.

Nasa'kin pa ang number ni kuya Vince sabi nya na e save daw namin ang
number namin para matawagan namin ang isa't isa at kung may problema
siya sa'kin siya tatawag kung walang kwenta si Gav haha. 

"Anne.." I heard Gavin say when kuya Oli and I entered the house. "Bakit? I
asked and he gestured for me to go upstairs kaya tumango ako.

"What is it Gavin?" I asked and he immediately enveloped me in a hug which

caught me off guard but I immediately relaxed in his embrace. "Thank you for
talking with Vince, bati kami at dahil 'yan sa'yo" he said and I smiled. Napaka
bilis naman ni kuya Vince. Parang kaka alis ko lang kanina.
"You're welcome Gav anything for my kuyas" I smiled and he smiled back
before ruffling my hair. I was about to walk inside my room when my phone
rang making me pause in my tracks.

"Hello?"

[Anli nasaan kana? Hinihintay kana namin]

"Bakit? Anong ganap?"

[Anong, anong ganap?! May practice pa tayo bruha ka!]

May practice kami? Ba't di ko alam? Akala ko buong araw kami walang pasok.
Walang takas talaga sa practice.

"Sorry Rina ngayon ko lang nalaman, I'll be there in a jiff"

[Dalian mo para makasimula na tayo]

"I will bye"

And with that I ended the call and went inside my bedroom to get ready. I
grabbed my black oversized shirt and black biker shorts and I also packed
some extra clothes to wear after. Then I wore my white rubber shoes before
tying my hair into a ponytail.

I went downstairs with my things and filled a water bottle with ice and water.
Then I barged inside Gavin's room to see him face timing kuya Vince.

"Hi kuya Vince" I greeted with a smile. "Hi Anli!" he greeted back with a wider
smile. I turned to my brother and gave him a kiss on the cheek before sitting
down on his lap. "Yes Anli?" he asked and I smiled.

"Can you drive me to school please? I have dance practice" I said and he
gestured towards the screen on his laptop which is placed on his study table.
"Kuya Vince can Gavin drive me to my school muna? Saglit lang naman may
dance practice pa kasi ako" I pouted and kuya Vince chuckled.

"Ang cute mo oo naman pwedeng pwede, magkikita at maguusap panaman

kami ni West palagi, I can't take away your brother from you now can I?" he
said and I smiled nodding. "Wag mong subukan ah kuya ko pa talaga 'to" I
threatened and he chuckled. "Ang dami mong kuya diyan akin nalang si West"
he said and I playfully glared at him.

"Wag! Best hugger 'tong si Gavin tsaka mahal ko ang kuya ko kaya wag" I
said and kuya Vince chuckled again. "Noted Ms. Anneliese" he smiled and I
smiled as well. "Tara na Anne, mamaya nalang tayo magusap bab"

"Sige sige, see you later babi, Anli" 

I smiled and waved at kuya Vince before Gavin ended the call and turned off
his laptop. I smiled at him and walked out of his room papunta na sa
sasakyan. My brothers share one car. But kuya Seb will soon buy his own car.
Ako rin bibili rin ako ng sarili kong car kapag makuha ko na driver's liscense
ko next year.

Waah excited na ako. Nag save pa naman ako nang money para bibili ako
nang Maserati Gran Turismo. Iba iba kasi ang savings ko. Savings for my car,
daily expenses, a condo maybe. Di pa ako sure kung kukuha ako ng condo
but I saved money for it just incase. Siguro bibili ako nang condo kapag
papasok na ako nang Law school.

Excited na ako sobra. Puta ngayon lang tumama sa'kin mag debut pala ako
next year. Jusko akala ko pa naman hindi. Anlaa last year ko na next year
tapos mag college na ako. Wah I can't believe it. I've come this far and I'm
proud of myself. This just proved that I can do anything if I just believe that I
can do it and if I kept reminding myself of my purpose.

I am here to be me and only to be me. I am here to find love, become a

Lawyer and bring justice to those who suffer the same way as me. I am here
to defend the oppressed and I am here to be mommy's baby girl. Her only
female child. 
Chapter Eleven

"O buti naka abot kana" Rina said sarcastically as soon as I arrived and in
response I just shook my head and chuckled. "Sorry na di kasi ako
nabalitaan" I apologised and she raised an eyebrow. "Nag announce ako sa
gc natin" I furrowed my eyebrows before pulling out my phone to check.

"Di ako na add sa group chat" I stated and Rina's eyebrows furrowed.
"Nakalimutan siguro ni Ara, sige lang ako nalang mag add sa'yo Anne" Noah
butted in with his phone in his hand. "Thanks Noah" I smiled and he smiled
back.

"Kumain kana ba Anli?" he asked and before I could answer Rina spoke.
"Anong klaseng tanong 'yan? Syempre tapos na, bugok"

"Actually wala pa" I said slowly and Noah burst out laughing. "Wahahahhaha
yaan sagot pa more! Di ka naman tinanong may pa bugok bugok ka pang
nalalaman ayon napahiya hahahahaha"

"Tumahimik ka gago ka! At ikaw Anneliese ba't di ka pa kumain? Ha? Noah

pakainin mo 'yan, tsaka kana sumabay sa amin" Rina said and I nod my head.

"Tara na Anli sa caf" he smiled and I nod my head. Ang ganda ng ngisi niya
as in. Oh gosh Anli stop that kaibigan mo ' yan. "I'll order you food what do
you want?". "Thanks Noah, adobong manok nalang for me" I thanked and he
made a salute sign with his two fingers before he left.

I really had fun with kuya Vince at the arcade kaya siguro the thought of lunch
didn't cross my mind. But thinking of food now makes me hungry. I had fun
with kuya Vince though. He is a fun guy. Binili niya pa ako ng lollipop which I
have with me right now.

Noah arrived and placed my food in front of me including a strawberry milk.

"Here"  how did he know? Pinaliitan ko siya ng tingin and he just laughed. "I'll
tell you when the right time comes" he said and that made my curiosity grow
more.
"So tell me about yourself Noah" grabe gutom na pala ako di ko na pansin.
"Well mahilig ako sumayaw alam mo na 'yan.. I'm an ABM student and I'll take
up Business Management in college, my parents own a hospital and a five
star hotel, I have an older brother, Euwan, I enjoy playing video games and
play basketball"

I nodded my head before sipping on my milk. "Kailan birthday mo?" I asked

and he eyed me. "Bakit mo tinanong? Nagkagusto ka na ba sa'kin?" he asked
and I scoffed. "Asa ka, you're my friend I have to know" 

"Baka ikaw.. May gusto ka ba sa'kin Mr. Verge?" I asked nearing my face
towards his. "Ye-Ehem hindi" he answered which made me laugh. He glared
at me but then it quickly changed to amusement.

"Tapos ka na? Kung tapos kana lakad muna tayo sa field para ma digest ang
pagkain" I shook my head to his suggestion and continued eating.

"What about you Ms. Veloso? Tell me about yourself" I nod my head and
placed my finger on my chin pretending to think. "Mmm... Ayoko" I said before
turning back to my food. "Ang daya bakit naman hindi?" he asked and I looked
at him. "That's for me to know and for you to find out" I winked and I could see
amusement in his eyes again.

"Excuse me" I turned to my right to see a boy holding a basketball..ball. I

stopped eating to smile at the boy making him smile back. "Gusto lang kita
aayain maglaro ng basketball kung pwede?" tanong niya and I gave him a sad
smile."Naku sorry na po, may practice kasi kami sa sing and dance club kaya
di ako pwede" 

"Ah sige po sorry sa pag abala" he smiled and I waved my hands in front of
me while shaking my head no. "No need to apologise, next time nalang" I said
and he smiled widely before nodding. When he's out of view tsaka lang
nagsalita si Noah.

"Buti di ka pumayag sa batang 'yon, may gusto lang 'yon sa'yo sure ako" I
rolled my eyes and he was about to say something else when the same boy
came at our side again. "Yeah may gusto ako kay Anneliese oo pero di
naman masama magkagusto ikaw nga may gusto sakanya, si Anneliese lang
talaga ang walang alam, tsaka.. gusto ko talaga makalaro si Anneliese, saan
ang masama do'n? Alam mo nakaka offend ang sinasabi mo" and with that he
started walking away leaving Noah a cold shoulder.

We even watched him when he swiftly turned around and walked back to our
table with a neutral expression. He looks cool and handsome as he walked
back to our table. 

"I forgot, pinabigay ni Alexander kanina no'ng nag meeting ang officers" inabot
niya sa'kin ang isang maliit na blue velvet box. I thanked him with a smile and
he smiled back and made sure to glare at Noah before leaving. And this time
umalis na talaga siya.

Noah glared at nothing and I slightly laughed making him turn to me with a
raised eyebrow. "Ginagalit mo" I laughed and he just rolled his eyes. Buksan
ko na sana ang box pero biglang sumigaw si Rina sa direksyon namin.

"Oy mga lovebirds mamaya na 'yan, Anneliese hali ka na at mag practice na

tayo" mamaya ko nalang buksan. Lovebirds? Parang tanga. Tumayo na ako
at tinapon ang mga basura ko sa trash bin. Tsaka ako naglakad patungo sa
kung saan kami mag practice which is near the field. 

At nakita ko pa ang batang lalaki kanina naglalaro ng basketball kasama ang

mga kaibigan niya pero no'ng nakita niya ako saka sila huminto para manood
sa'min mag practice. Ngumisi lang ako sakanila bago sumama sa mga club
members ko. Wala naman akong karapatan para magsabi na nahihiya ako
kasi nanonood sila. Sasayaw naman talaga ako in front sa crowd sa birthday
ni Dean.

"Sige, girls start, boys do'n kayo sa medjo malayo para di magkasabay ang
tugtog ng music" Rina instructed and everyone followed. Sumayaw ako ng
maayos sisigawan nanaman ako ni Rina kapag hindi. 
Nag practice na rin ako sa solo ko at wala talaga akong break. Sabi ni Rina
wala raw kasi ang tagal ko raw dumating tapos di pa ako kumain ng lunch
kaya wala akong break. Pero dahil alam niya na asthmatic ako binigyan na
niya ako ng  one hour break pagkatapos ng eleven tries. Nakuha ko naman
agad ang steps kasi nga eleven tries.

Umupo nalang ako sa grass habang umiinom ng tubig. Kailangan na siguro

ako babalik sa pilates exercise ko.  Pinikit ko ang mga mata ko as I feel the
soothing air. I only opened my eyes when I felt someone sitting down beside
me. 

"Ang galing mong sumayaw" the same boy from awhile ago said and I smiled.
"Ano pala ang pangalan mo? Di ko natanong kanina" I said and he looked at
me. "Andrew, Andrew Storm Cordova" 

"Ang ganda pala ng pangalan mo" I smiled and he smiled back. "Same with
the owner" he winked and I chuckled. "Pasensya na kay Noah kanina ah" I
said and he smiled lightly. "That's okay, natuwa akong makita na di niya alam
na ang kapal ng mukha niya" biro niya at tumawa ako ng malakas. Sirang
lalaki 'to.

Maaga kami pinauwi ni Rina ngayon kasi umuulan na. Nag text na ako kay
Gavin na papasundo na ako. Kanina pa ako naghintay actually. Nasa labas
kami ng campus ngayon sa shade naghihintay sa mga sundo namin. Kasama
ko si Rina, Noah at si Aly. Nasa library lang pala si Aly the whole time. 

"Nag aaral ka lang buong araw Aly?" tanong ni Rina at tumango si Aly at
sinandal ang kanyang ulo sa shoulder ni Rina. "Pagod na ako" she whined
and I gave her a hug to which she returned. "K lang 'yan Aly, laban lang
pagkatapos mo nyan pupunta tayong beach kasama si Rina" I promised and
she smiled widely. "Tutuparin mo 'yan ah" sabi ni Rina at tumawa naman ako
bago tumango.
"Hoy di ba ako sasama?" tanong ni Noah and the three of us looked at him
with blank expressions kaya napataas ni Noah ang dalawang kamay niya. "Uy
biro lang, kayo nalang mag bonding bahala kayo diyan" he mumbled and the
three of us burst out laughing. "Sasama ka of course, sasama rin naman si
Percy at si Miguel" saad ko at ngumisi naman ang dalawa at nagkwentuhan.

Sana papayagan ako nila kuya at ni mommy na pupunta sa beach kasama

ang mga kaibigan ko. Sure ako na matapos lahat ni Aly ang mga gagawin
niya kaya mag isip na ako ng beach na pwede namin pupuntahan. Huminto
bigla si Rina sa gitna ng pagkukwento niya ng may itim na sasakyan ang
huminto sa tapat namin.

"That's my sundo, adios peeps!" pagpaalam ni Rina bago pumasok sa itim na

sasakyan. Magsalita na sana si Aly ng nag ring ang phone niya kaya agad
niyang sumagot. Nag check ako ng oras at 3:16 pm na wala pa rin si Gavin
nag text ako uli bago hinarap si Aly na natapos ng makipag usap. "Guys
kailangan ko nang umalis, kitakits bukas" kaway niya at naglakad na paalis.
Sa parking lot siguro siya pupunta. Ngayon kami nalang ni Noah ang natira.

I sighed and stared at the blue velvet box on my had. Ano kaya ang pinabigay
sa'kin ni Xander. Buksan ko na 'to. My lips parted when I saw a sapphire gem
necklace. Xander bought me this? It's so pretty. And it looks so expensive
and..real.

"Tss" I looked at my side to see Noah's face near mine looking at the jewelry. I
closed the box and glared at him. "Xandy bought me this and it's pretty, bleh
walang sa'yo" I teased and he chuckled and tucked a strand of my hair behind
my ear. "Di 'yan galing sa kapatid mo, may gusto ang lalaking' yon sa'yo" he
said and I raised an eyebrow at him. "How are you so sure?" I asked and he
smiled.

"Pagdating mo sa bahay mamaya ask your brother if he bought that for you,
kung hindi, galing 'yan sa lalaki kanina". I pursed my lips and averted my gaze
towards the velvet box. This is from kuya diba?. "Anli andiyan na kuya mo"
Noah said and I looked at my side to see Gavin on the driver's seat waving at
me. I heavily sighed before saying goodbye to Noah and going in the car.
"Ang tagal mo!" reklamo ko sa kapatid ko at ngumisi lang siya sa'kin. "Sorry
nag bonding kami ni Babi" he apologised and I scrunched my nose with their
endearment. Babi huh!. Pag uwi ko sa bahay agad ako nagpunta sa loob ng
kwarto ni Xander na naglalaro ng among us.

"Xander" tawag ko pero ayaw niya akong pansinin. "Oy gago nakasunod
sa’kin!" sigaw niya and I just gave him a weird look pero di pa rin siya
namamansin. "Xandy!" tawag ko uli pero ayaw pa rin. “Bobo magsabi na di
siya eh nakita nga namin lahat na siya pumatay ang tanga lang" 

"Kuya" I tried and that's when Xander looked up at me. Tss. "Bakit?" he asked
and I rolled my eyes. "Kaya pala ayaw mo akong pansinin kasi gusto mo lang
tawagin kita ng kuya" I stated and he shrugged. "Ikaw ba ang nagbigay nito
sa'kin?" I held the velvet box in front of me to let him see at umiling siya. "Di
ako, kung bibilhan kita dapat birthday mo, christmas gift o pang sorry gift" .
Ang galing. I shook my head at him and walked out of his room to go to mine.

This box isn't from my brother so that means Noah's right. It is from Andrew.
Isauli ko ba 'to? Nahihiya na ako. Sakaniya pala galing, totoo ba na may gusto
siya sa'kin? Baka gawa-gawa lang ni Noah 'yun.
Chapter Twelve

Gumising ako ng maaga ngayon kasi gusto ko nang pumasok sa paaralan

para maibigay ko kay Andrew ang kwentas na galing pala sakanya. Napaka
kapal ng mukha ko. Akala ko pa naman na kay Xander talaga 'to galing,
sakanya pala. Dapat kanina pa ako umalis kaso dumating bigla si Percival
nakikain sa'min. Sinabihan ko kasi kagabi na nakauwi na si dad so ang sabi
niya sasabay daw kami pupunta ng school. Pero wala siyang sinabi na dito
siya kakain ng desayuno!

"Oh ba't nakatayo ka lang diyan?" tanong ni kuya Oli sa'kin pero di ko siya
pinansin at inirapan nalang si Percy na kumakain sa dining room. Tumawa
naman ng mahina si kuya Oli bago binato si Percy ng mahina sa ulo. "Hoy
Lamuerte bilisan mo na 'yan naghihintay na ang kapatid ko"

Tinignan ako ni Percy pero sinamaan ko lang siya ng tingin at lumabas sa

bahay. Umupo ako sa isang made of wood na upuan at tumingin sa mga
bulaklak ni mommy. Ang ganda pa naman ng mga rose at sunflowers. Ang
ganda ng sky ngayon.

"Psst ganda"

Kumunot ang noo ko at di pinansin ang weird na boses. Baka kapag lumingon
ako may magsasabi na assuming ako o ano ba. Ewan ko nalang. Aish ba't ba
ang tagal ni Percy? Malelate na ata ako oh. May klase pa naman din ang
pagong ang bagal kumilos. Nakikikain pa.

"Psst naka Silver High uniform na babae"

Agad na ako napatingin sa uniform at tumingin sa paligid ko pero ako lang

ang nasa labas ng bahay naka suot ng uniform sa Silver High. Lumingon ako
sa pinanggalingan ng boses at nakita si Noah na nakangiti sa'kin. Kaloka siya
pala 'yun?!

"Ginagawa mo rito?" tanong ko sakanya nang naka lapit ako sa pwesto niya.
"Susunduin sana kita"
Susunduin niya ako? Bakit naman? Di naman niya ako responsibilidad para
sunduin. Nag abala pa talaga. Nasayang ko na ang oras niya. Nako dapat
nasa paaralan na siya ngayon.

"Andito naman si Percy, sasabay kami papunta sa paaralan, una ka nalang

nag abala kapa talaga" 

"Wala 'yun. Gusto lang kita makita, sabay nalang tayo tatlo besides pareho
lang naman tayo ng pupuntahan" 

Tama siya. Anong oras na ba? I checked my digital wrist watch and it read
6:36 am. Ang bagal ng pagong. Tatawagin ko nalang sa loob. Pambihira
nakapag aral na sana ako kanina pa. May quiz pa naman ata sa first subject
namin. Kakainis.

"Wait lang tatawagin ko lang si Percy" bago pa mag salita si Noah agad na
ako pumasok pabalik sa bahay at umakyat sa kwarto ko para kunin ang bag
ko bago bumaba ulit. "Hoy Percy punta na tayo sa paaralan naghihintay na si
Noah sa labas"

Agad naman lumingon si Percy na nakipag daldalan kay mommy. Naka kunot
ang noo niya halatang na curious kung bakit andito si Noah. Siguro susunod
nalang si Noah sa amin kasi may sasakyan naman si Percy.

"Mommy alis na kami ah, ingat" paalam ko bago ko hinalikan ang pisngi niya.
At kinurot naman ni mommy ang pisngi ko na sobrang hapdi. Ang hilig talaga
nila mangurot ng pisngi no? Ang sakit.

"I love you anak, ingat baby ha" ngumisi naman ako kay mommy at niyakap
siya. Bumaba na si Xandy at nag paalam kay mommy. Lumabas na rin kami
ni Percy sa bahay.

"Susunod ka nalang sa amin Noah" sabi ni Percy at hinawakan ang braso ko

pero hinawakan din ni Noah ang kabilang braso ko. Ang tangkad nila mukha
akong mushroom at sila ang mga matangkad na halaman.
"Sa akin na sasabay si Anli" seryosong sabi ni Noah at nag seryoso na rin
ang mukha ni Percy ako naman parang isang mushroom na nakikinig sa
dalawang matangkad na halaman na nag sasagutan.

"No Anli will go with me ako ang nauna rito" ay wow siya nga ang naunang
pumunta rito at nakikain pa. Awit. "Ako na, ako ang nagsabi sakanya na
sasabay tayo papunta sa paaralan, supposed to be kaming dalawa lang pero
umeepal ka lang" sagot ni Noah.

Mga bata. Ma late na kami tuloy dito. Pareho lang naman ang daan namin
magsama nalang kaya sila sa isang sasakyan para doon sila mag sagutan. Di
pa talaga bumitaw ang mga mukhang tae sa braso ko.

"O-oh. Ba't naka tingin kayo sa akin?" tangek akala ko sa isip ko lang 'yun
nasabi. Napalakas ko ba? Nakatingin kasi ang dalawa sa akin at seryosong
seryoso pa talaga ang mga expression nila.

"Choose Anli you'll go with me or him" sabi ni Percy sabay bitaw sa braso ko.
Salamat doon mapa relax ko na ang isang braso ko. E-eh.. Ayoko nalang
sumabay sa kahit sino sa kanilang dalawa.

"Sa akin sasabay si Anli, walang tatanggi mga kaibigan lang kayo. Kuya ako"
biglang singit ni Xander. Napa buntong hinga ako pero di nila nakita 'yon at
lumakad na patungo sa kapatid ko.

"Kay Xandy nalang ako sasabay guys, una na kayo" ngumiti ako sakanila na
naka tulala lang bago pumasok sa sasakyan ni Xander. Ay nakakapagod sa
mga braso ko.

O di pa ba sila papasok sa mga sasakyan nila? Malate na kami. "Ang weirdo

nila" sabi ni Xander pag sakay niya sa sasakyan at tumango ako. Naka pasok
na si Percy sa sasakyan niya at umalis na kasunod si Noah tapos kami. "May
practice kayo ngayon Anne?" 

"Malamang" sagot ko at tumawa lang siya ng mahina. May notes naman

siguro ako sa phone ko no? Check ko lang. Oh my gosh meron, yes!
Makapag aral ako kahit konting oras lang. "Kay Percy ka sasabay pauwi
mamaya ha, may meeting pa kaming officers"  tumango lang ako sakanya
bago ko siya hinalikan sa pisngi at umalis para hanapin si Andrew.

Saan ba kasi ang classroom ng lalaking 'yon? Di ko pa nga alam anong

classroom siya. Anong oras na ba bala ma late na ako. Kainis sila Percy di
ako mahirapan ngayon kung di lang sila nag-aaway at di lang kumakain ng
mabagal si Percy sana nahanap ko na si Andrew ngayon.

"Um excuse me do you know where Andrew Cordova's classroom is?" tanong
ko sa isang babae na naka STEM uniform. "Ikaw ba si Anneliese Veloso?
Nako pinagbawalan ako kausapin ka sabi ng ate ko pero wala namang
masama doon, nasa 12- ABM E po si Andrew" I thanked her and left to go to
his classroom.

Ang kapal ng mukha ng ate niya. Mas maganda pa ang kapatid niya even
though di ko pa nakita ang mukha ng ate niya. Ah here. Sumilip ako sa pinto
at hinahanap si Andrew. Nagulat ako nang may nagbukas sa pinto nahulog
ako tuloy.. Almost.

Someone caught my fall. I stood up properly and looked at the class. Lahat
sila naka tingin sa akin no correction sa amin. Ngumiti nalang ako sakanila
tsaka lumingon sa likuran ko. Yes it's him! Finally.

"Andrew! I've been looking everywhere for you di mo alam kung paano ako
nahirapan kakahanap sa iyo kanina male-late na siguro ako pero bahala na
saglit lang naman 'to" I smiled and pulled him out of his classroom.

"Hinahanap mo ako Anneliese?" he asked with a smirk at tinaasan ko lang

siya nang isang kilay. "Kakasabi ko lang diba?" pagtataray ko at tumawa lang
siya nang mahina. "Why are you looking for me?" I pulled the blue velvet box
from the front compartment of my bag and showed it to him.

"Mhm that's a small blue velvet box" he said with a small smile which showed
his dimples. Ang cute. Pwe. "Andrew ang sabi mo it's from Xander well he
said it isn't from him, why did you lie to me? Nahiya na ako tuloy"
Tumawa siya at kinuha ang liit na box sa kamay ko. "You know you're really
cute when you're shy" he took the necklace out of the box and gestured me to
move my hair so I did.

"I heard lots of rumors about you that you're dumb, ugly, a child whose
parents don't want and crazy... I felt bad for you at first but then another set of
rumors came they said you're rude, an attention seeker and an assuming
person, I kind of believed those because I heard that Percy, Alexander and
Gavin are always defending you, it made me think that you're just a brat" 

Sinamaan ko siya nang tingin which made him chuckle. Once he's finished on
putting the necklace he fixed my hair and held my chin up. Ang tangkad niya
mas matangkad pa siguro siya kaysa kay Noah. Sorry Noah it's the truth.

"But the first time I laid my eyes on you I got attracted to your beauty so I
decided to observe you, I kept listening to the good rumors about you and
compared them with the bad and as I got to know you more from afar I
realized rumors are just made up stories without true facts, you are more than
what they tell you Anneliese Isis, you are not just a woman but an empowered
woman, I soon noticed the real Anneliese Veloso and that's what made my
attraction towards you turn to a crush and turn into love"

My lips parted a bit when I heard him say the last part. He loves me? But..
Tinignan ko siya sa mata naka kunot ang noo at nakita ko siyang ngumisi
bago hinalikan ang pisngi ko.

"I think I'm in love with you ms. Anneliese" he said before returning to his
classroom leaving me shocked. Gagi? Ah my quiz pa ako!

The last bell is going to ring in fifteen minutes. At nasa itaas pa ang classroom
ko. Ugh! Dapat mamaya ko na binigay. Please di ako ma late please please
please please.. Yes! Wala pa si sir! Woohoo! Saved. Salamat Lord.

"Bakit ang tagal mo?" tanong ni Percy pag upo ko sa tabi niya. "May dinaanan
lang" he looked at my necklace and then back to my eyes. "Ano 'yan? Wala
pa 'yan kanina, sino nag bigay?" he bombarded and I put both my hands up in
the air as if I'm surrendering at kinuwentuhan siya sa nangyari.

"Ano uli ang pangalan niya?" sinamaan ko siya ng tingin at tinaasan niya lang
ako nang kilay. "Oh? Wala akong gagawin do'n" he defended and I tsked.
"Wala nga sabi.. Kakausapin ko lang" at dahil sa sinabi niya sinampal ko ang
braso niya.

"Umabot din 'yan sa suntukan, ayoko" pagtanggi ko sakanya and he sighed.

Ha akala mo ah. Aasarin ko pa sana siya pero pumasok na ang guro namin
na nakasimangot.

"Get 1/2 crosswise, 1/2 crosswise sir? Yes 1/2 crosswise  HUMSS - C"

Ayan quiz na. Kaya mo 'to Anli pinag-aralan mo 'to kagabi. Nag review ka pa
kanina kayang kaya mo.

Lunch na ngayon at nakasimangot ako. Paano ba naman ang laman ng utak

ko ang mga sinasabi ni Andrew. Di nga ako confident sa mga answers ko.
Sayang ang pinag-aralan ko takte.

"Ang dali lang ng quiz ni sir Grovi kung pinag-aralan mo at kung nakinig ka sa
discussion" sabi ni Percy at nakasimangot pa rin ako. "Anli!" rinig kong tawag
ni Rina. Lumingon ako at nakita si Rina, Aly at Noah papunta sa kung saan
kami ni Percy which is sa tapat ng gym.

"Payakap Rina sad ako" niyakap ko si Rina at niyakap niya ako pabalik. "Awe
why are you sad man?" she asked at di ako nagsalita so si Percy na ang
nagsalita for me. "Di 'yan confident sa mga sagot niya sa quiz namin sa
literature"

"I feel you beh di ka nag iisa kaya wag kanang malungkot diyan" Rina
reassured and I giggled. "Oh ayan! Tumatawa na ang bebe ko" ngiting sabi ni
Rina at hinawalayan ako. "Mag aral nalang tayo sa lib Anli, tutulungan kita
kung kaya ko kasi ABM ako at HUMSS ka" Aly offered and I agreed with her.
"Tara na lunch gutom na ako" reklamo ni Noah before draping his arm on my
shoulders and dragging me to the cafeteria. Sumunod naman ang iba. "Yiieee
Anliah" pang-aasar ni Rina and I just rolled my eyes at her. Anliah psh.

"Tumahimik ka Rina ang pangit ng pangalan" reklamo ni Percy at tumawa

naman kami ni Aly except for Noah and Rina. "Tumahimik ka rin Percy! Selos
ka lang kasi bagay si Noah at si Anli"

I just shook my head and walked ahead with Noah. His arm is not draped on
my shoulders anymore because I walked fast kanina. Ang ingay talaga ni Rina
at Percy nakakahiya. Sorry Aly kung naiwan kita sa dalawang megaphone.

"Ang pangit daw ng Anliah well I actually like it" sabi ni Noah at ngumisi ako
sakanya. "Hmm.. It's not that bad it sounds cute, hehe Anliah what a cute
name" I giggled and Noah smiled at me before pinching my cheek causing me
to caress it with my hand because of the pain.

"Sorry you just look cute" he chuckled and I pursed my lips and looked away.
Eepal ang birthmark ko ngayon I'm sure of it.

"Kain ng marami Anli. Rina stop playing with your gravy di 'yan juice, Percy
and Noah stop glaring at each other nasa mesa tayo" sabi ni Aly at ngumisi
lang ako. She's like the mother hen in the squad.

I'm just having sushi and ebi fry (fried shrimp) and coconut juice, Rina who is
beside me is having fried chicken and iced-tea while Noah who is beside Rina
is having sinuglaw, porkchop and iced-tea. Aly who is in front of me is having
a cheeseburger and water. Percy who is seated beside Aly is having sisig,
crispy pata and chocolate shake. May time pa kami mamaya so pwede pa ako
pumunta sa remini's cafe para bibili ng cheesecake.

"Anli let's study later or tomorrow na?" tanong ni Aly sa akin. Patapos na
kaming kumain ngayon and I'm really excited to eat cheesecake. "Bukas
nalang, may practice pa kasi kami mamaya" tumango siya at bumalik na sa
pag babasa ng school book niya.
Tapos na kami kumain at ngayon andito na ako sa cafe kumakain ng oreo
cheesecake. Dalawang slice pa hehe. Ang sarap kasi at nabibitin ako kapag
isa lang ang kakainin ko. Di naman pwede tatlo ka slice kasi ma late na kami
diyan so dalawa nalang.

"Salamat sa libre Anli, yari ka sa mga kuya mo nag sweets ka naman ng libre
pa dalawang slice pa ang sakanya, bravo lagot ka sakanila mamaya" sabi ni
Percy at sinamaan ko siya ng tingin bago humawak sa braso niya kasi tatawid
na kami sa pedestrian lane pabalik sa paaralan.

"Tapos bibili pa ako mamaya pag uwi ng strawberry milk drink" tawa ko.
"Ewan ko talaga sa'yo Anli" tawang sabi ni Rina. "Basta make sure na may
matira pa sa pera mo ha, learn to save Anli" Aly reminded and I nod and
smiled at her nginitian niya naman ako pabalik.

"Ako na ang hahatid sa iyo pauwi mamaya Anli" Noah offered. Tanggihan ko
sana kaso inunahan ako ni Percy. "Binilin siya ng kuya niya sa akin wala ka
nang magawa Verge" sinamaan siya ng tingin ni Noah bago tumingin sa akin
with a soften gaze. "That's okay magkasama naman tayo mamaya" he winked
and walked away. Nasa school na pala kami.

"After practice go straight to the gym Anne" seryosong sabi ni Percy at umalis
na din. "Grabe ang dalawang lalaki nakipag away sa isang babae,
magandang dilag ka girl?" Rina teased and I raised my side upper lip at her
tumawa lang naman siya.

"Stop teasing her Rina, di ka nga crush ng crush mo" Aly scolded and I
laughed. "Grabe Aly foul na 'yan!" reklamo ni Rina at tumawa lang kami ni
Rina.

"Where were you?"

I almost jumped when someone tapped my shoulders. I turned around to see

Andrew all sweaty. Nginitian niya ako at nginitian ko na rin siya. Tumingin siya
sa mga kaibigan ko at nginitian niya rin.
"Uh, girls si Andrew pala kaibigan ko, Andrew my best friends Regina and
Althea" I introduced and they greeted each other. "Aalis na kami Anli ah
mukhang may sasabihin si Andrew sa'yo" Aly said before dragging Rina away
from us.

"Naglalaro ka nanaman?" I asked and he chuckled. "Nag aaya sila eh" he said
and I squinted my eyes at him and he chuckled again while ruffling my hair.
"Sasali ka nalang kaya sa varsity team? Ang galing mo naman siguro mag
laro ng basketball"

"Ayoko baka magalit si Percy sa akin" I raised my eyebrow and he grinned.

"Baka ma agaw ko ang position niya as team captain" tawa niya at sinampal
ko ang braso niya. "Gago" tawa ko ng mahina.

Kinuha ko ang panyo ko sa pocket ko at nag tingki para ma abot ang mukha
niya. Andrew held my waist to support my weight habang nag pupunas ako ng
sweat niya.

"Oh ayan" sabi ko at di na nag tingki pero di pa rin inalis ni Andrew ang kamay
niya inalis ko na at kitang basa ang likod niya. "Huy magkasakit ka nyan may
extra shirt ka ba? Or face towel?" I asked at tumango siya. "Mag bihis nalang
ako mamaya" sabi niya at umiling ako.

"Wag mamaya ngayon na"

He chuckled and held my wrist. Naglakad na kami papunta sa.. Classroom

ko? Ihahatid niya ba ako? May konting oras pa ako ayoko pang pumasok sa
classroom. Ay no mag time na pala sa amin.

"May practice ka mamaya?" tanong niya at tinaasan ko lang siya ng isang

kilay. "Stalker ka ba?" I asked and he chuckled. "I told you I observe you
simula pa no'ng may crush ako sa'yo, now please answer my question" he
pleaded and I chuckled.

"Oo may practice ako mamaya sa tapat ng gym" ngumisi siya tinignan ang
watch niya. "Alam ko na kailan kayo matapos, I'll walk you to practice, mag
lalaro lang ako mamaya tapos tatambay na ako malapit sa'yo" he said at
tumango ako.

"K doks"  he chuckled at my response and kissed my cheek before he left.

Nakatulala lang ako doon sa ginawa niya he kissed me on the cheeks twice.

I shook my head and went back inside the classroom. Wala pa rito ang guro
namin kaya nag review nalang ako sa previous lesson namin with the next
subject.

I'm so tired. Ang daming assignments and upcoming quizzes. Gusto ko nang
matulog I miss my bed and I know my bed misses me.

"Uy"  I looked up to see Percy already wearing his jersey and shorts. "What" I
whined at tumawa lang siya. "Akala mo wala kang practice no? Well AKALA
mo lang" he laughed at sinamaan ko lanh siya ng tingin. Boba.

Aish may practice pa pala ako ngayon. Nakakapagod. But fine I always have
fun whenever I dance or sing or act or write or read basta kung ginawa ko ang
mga hobbies ko sumasaya at nag eenjoy ako.

I took grabbed my tote bag and walked towards the bathroom to change into
my beige ribbed tank top and black shorts with my beige rubber shoes. I also
clipped my hair up using my claw clip.

Pagbalik ko sa classroom nakita ko na si Andrew naghihintay sa labas. When

our eyes met he smiled and I smiled back. He's already changed into a plain
dark blue shirt. That's one of the rules in our school kapag nadumihan ang
uniform mo pwede ka naman magbihis pero dapat same plain na dark blue.

"Kukunin ko lang bag ko" sabi ko sakanya at pumasok na sa loob ng

classroom para kunin ang bag ko at lumabas na rin. "Lessgo" pag-aya at
nagsimulang lumakad pero pinigilan niya ako.

"Let me carry your bag may dala ka pang tote bag" he offered and I shook my
head. "Wag na kaya ko naman tsaka damit, sapatos at essential kit lang
naman ang laman ng tote bag ko" sabi ko and he shook his head. Kaya I
sighed and gave him my back pack.

"Now let's go" he said grabbing my wrist. Naglalakad na kami patungo sa

tapat ng gym. "Uy andito na si best dancer" Rina called and I rolled my eyes
at her. Andrew placed my backpack down and I thanked him.

"Babalik lang ako mamaya, maglalaro lang ako saglit" paalam niya and I
raised an eyebrow at him. "Ba't ka nag paalam sa akin? Girlfriend mo ba
ako?"

"Soon" he smirked and I hit his arm making him laugh. "Sige na hinihintay ka
na nila oh" he said and I playfully glared at him making him laugh again before
leaving.

I turned around and started walking towards the sing and dance club
members. Soon daw huh. As if naman papayag ako. Just keep on dreaming
Andrew Storm.

"Boyfriend mo?" Rina asked wiggling her eyebrows "hindi no! Kaibigan ko nga
lang" tanggi ko agad and she laughed before poking my cheeks. Naglakad
siya sa gitna at humarap sa amin with a serious look.

And president Regina is here. "Go to your places in 1!.. 2!..3!.. MARCO!"
sheesh di sana ako masigawan ngayon. Well once lang naman ako
nasigawan.

Nakakapagod. Kakatapos lang nang practice namin grabe si Rina may nagpa
galit siguro sakanya kasi two hours kami nag practice ng walang break. Ni isa
wala. Ngayon lang kami nagka water break. And gladly we're done. Umuwi na
si Rina kasi kanina pa daw tunatawag ang mom niya.

"Sasabay ba kayo ni Alexander pauwi?" tanong ni Andrew at umiling ako.

"Sino ang hahatid sa'yo?" he asked again and I point my finger towards the
gym kung saan nag practice ang varsity team.
He looked to where I pointed and he looked back to me with a nod. Habang
pinupunas niya ang sweat ko dumating si Noah na naka taas ang isang kilay
kay Andrew.

"At sino ka?" tanong ni Noah in a mean way kaya natigilan si Andrew sa
ginagawa niya at tumingin kay Noah. "You wanna know because?" tanong din
ni Andrew.

"Eh kasama mo si Anli kailangan ko malaman kung sino ka malay ko e harass

mo siya"

"Noah!" I scolded. But he just glared at Andrew. Tumayo si Andrew at nilagay

ang kaniyang kanan na kamay sa pocket niya. "Sa tingin mo magawa ko
'yon? Ang sama mong tao para mang judge nang iba nang ganon kadali"

Hay nako nag-aaway pa si Percy at Noah sa umaga and now is Andrew at..
Noah?! At ako nanaman ang mukhang mushroom sa dalawang mataas na
halaman. Kainis.

"Tinanong ko nga lang kung sino ka maging ganiyan ka na?" parang similar
ang sinabi ni Noah sakto pang tono sa boses.

"Wow parang wala kang sinabi na mali kanina you piece of shit"

Sinabihan ka lang na kunin ang mga gamit ko kasi may pupuntahan ako
makipag away ka na?!

"Piece of shit muk-"

Noah was cut off by my gasp and the both of them looked at me with
concerned looks. Now I know bakit similar. Pareho pala kay dad ang tono
similar pa ang sinasabi nila.

"Anli are you okay?" Andrew asked both his hands on my shoulders. Noah
can't speak that way even if he also said something wrong. Tinignan ko si
Noah at sinamaan siya nang tingin.
"Noah wala kang karapatan maging ganyan mali ka pa naman, hindi ganyan
si Andrew okay? Anong tingin mo sa'kin tanga?"

"No-"

"Before you walk around announcing something about someone gaya nang
ginawa mo kanina make sure you have credible evidence to present. Di mo
alam ang tao Noah di ka rin niya alam wala kang karapatan magsabi ng
ganyan sakanya"

Noah looked at me with a soft gaze. Lumapit siya sa akin pero lumayo lang
ako sakanya. I glared at him and sat back down with my arms crossed and my
face with a blank expression. Regret instantly flashed in his eyes.

"Anli-"

"I am mad at you Noah, I would let you explain but I know your reason ginawa
mo 'yun kasi, nag alala ka sa'kin right?" I asked and he nodded his head.
"your intentions are good but how you treated the person isn't pinamukha mo
akong tao na walang alam sa mundo and you know? That's what my dad
always tells me" I clenched my fists preventing myself from crying cause' I'm
close to tears na.

"Anli I'm-"

"Noah I'm sorry din but I don't want to talk to you right now, please leave you
weren't needed anyways" he nodded his head with a pained expression and
left.

Oo alam ko na masakit ang sinabi ko but he just reminds me of how dad does
to my kuyas and me. The way he acted awhile ago? It's unacceptable.
Someone needs to step on his ego.

"Anli you can cry I'm here, babe" Andrew said and wrapped his arms around
me. And now my tears started falling down. "Bakit ganon siya magkilos?
Magsalita? Kaibigan ko pa naman siya, ang oa ko pero ang laki no'n nang
impact sa'kin kasi ayoko maging pareho siya sa ama ko" I cried.

"It's okay Anli it's not your fault and it's not his fault, it's no one's fault okay?
Nadala lang siya nang emosyon kaya naging ganon siya" tumango lang ako
sa mga sinasabi niya.

Tama siguro si Andrew pero ang sakit pa rin. Parang binabalik lang ni Noah
ang sinasabi niya sa'kin noon at ang sakit nang mga salita niya. Ako ang
nasaktan.

"Shh.. It's okay babe" sabi ni Andrew at hinalikan ang noo ko. "Ba't ba ang
hilig mong humalik sa'kin wala naman tayong label" sabi ko pagkatapos ng
iyak session ko at tumawa lang ng mahina si Andrew. Basang basa na ang
shirt niya.

"Walang label? Babe you're already mine from the start"

Chapter Thirteen

"What's happening with you and Andrew?" tanong ni Aly. Nasa library kami
ngayon nag-aaral. "Magkaibigan lang kami" sabi ko habang nakatingin sa
aklat ko and I saw Aly put down her pen to look at me kaya tinignan ko rin
siya. "Magkaibigan pero hinalikan ka sa pisngi, magkaibigan pero nagkayakap
kahapon okay" I glared at her and pursed my lips.

"Eh ganon naman ang magkaibigan diba? It's normal Aly" she shook her head
and went back to writing on her formula. "Walang label? Baby you're mine
from the start, okay Anli okay" I could feel my face heat up when she repeated
Andrew's exact words. "Ewan ko sakanya" I replied and she just eyed me but I
looked away.

I was about to continue reading my lesson on governance when my phone

vibrated. Sila kuya siguro ang aga ko kasing umalis maybe by 5:10 am wala
na ako sa bahay kasi nga mag aaral kami ni Aly sa library ngayon. Napa
kunot ang noo pag tingin ko sa phone ko. It's from an unknown number.
Weird. 

099999999,

Where are you? Nasa campus na ako

Me,

I'm sorry who's this?

099999999,

Boyfriend mo =)
Wtf? I don't have a boyfriend. Sino 'to? Ang kapal ng mukha niya magsabi na
boyfriend ko siya.

Me,

I don't have a boyfriend stop joking around please.

09999999

Babe, this is Andrew your boyfriend

"Grabe nakalimutan mo na ako?" I jumped when someone spoke from beside

me. I glared at Andrew and he just laughed earning a warning from the
librarian. He greeted Aly before sitting down beside me. "Paano mo nakuha
number ko?" I asked and he looked up from reading my book. "I have my
ways" he winked and I rolled my eyes. Tinignan ko si Aly na ngayon
nakatingin sa akin with a raised eyebrow I just shook my head and she
averted her gaze towards Andrew who is still busy reading my book.

"Andrew" Aly called making him look up to her binaba ni Aly ang kaniyang
aklat at ballpen tsaka inayos ang kaniyang pag upo. "Kayo ba ni Anli?" I widen
my eyes and showed her my fist which she ignored. Sinabing magkaibigan
lang kami. "You see here Aly, I am actually courting Rose" sagot ni Andrew at
napatingin ako sakanya naka kunot ang noo. "I'm guessing by her reaction
she doesn't know" Aly said and I swiftly nodded my head making Andrew
chuckle.

"Oo, di niya alam pero alam niya na sa akin talaga siya pupunta" Kapal ng
mukha ni Andrew akal mo naman sakaniya talaga ako pupunta. Andiyan pa
ang mga kuya ko si Percy, Regina at si Aly. "Cool, bagay kayo" Aly pointed
out which made me drop my jaw. Ngumisi lang si Andrew at binalik ang
atensyon niya sa aklat ko. "Sinasabi mo Aly?" biglang singit ng nakakarating
lang na Percy at tumango ako. "Oo nga sinasabi mo Aly?" I asked as well and
Andrew glanced at Percy.

"Ang hina niyo naman Percival naunahan na kayo" sabi ni Aly at tinignan ni
Percy si Andrew bago niya ako tinignan. "Kayo?" he asked. "Hindi" agad kong
tanggi at tumango siya satisfied with my answer pero dumilim ang mga mata
niya sa sinasabi ni Andrew. "But I'm courting her".

Ayon na it's lunch time na at ako lang mag-isa naglakad sa field kasi
humahanap ako ng tahimik na spot para mag isip. Di naman nagagalit si
Percy sa akin kasi di naman daw kami 'yun ang sabi niya. Pero alam ko na
naiinis siya kay Andrew. Suot ko pa naman ang necklace na binigay niya. Ang
ganda kasi at ang tagal ko nang hindi naka suot ng necklace kasi mag irritate
ang skin ko. But I know this is a real gem because it doesn't make my skin
irritate. I'm just happy kasi may ma suot na talaga ako na hindi itchy sa skin
ko.

"Uy mag-isa lang siya" Arman smirked stopping me from walking. I glanced
behind him to see two of his friends laughing may isa pang kaibigan niya sa
gilid ko. "May pupuntahan ako so please excuse me"  I stepped forward to
walk away from them but they only blocked my path. 

Looking at Arman makes me feel disgusting because I used to have a crush

on him during my grade school days but na turn off ako kasi ang baho ng
ugali niya. Okay pa naman siya at first pero nang natagalan di na
nakakatuwa. 

"Dalhin natin sa mental hospital mukhang magwala na siya dito" sabi ni

Arman at sumingit si Criezha. "Oo nga kailangan 'yan nang medicine" tawa ni
Criezha at tumawa rin ang iba. I placed my tongue at the side of my mouth
and looked at them one by one. Wala talaga silang magawa.

"Oh? Ganiyan ka makatingin. Huy dalian niyo na baka magwala na 'yan dalhin
na natin sa mental hospital" 
I blinked thrice and looked away. I swear tears are prickling in my eyes
already. Nakakainis sila. 

"Iiyak na 'yan hahaha" tawa ni Arman. "Tumahimik ka attention seeker" I

mumbled but I guess they heard it kasi huminto sila at tinignan ako. Arman
started walking closer to me and I started taking steps backward. "Ang bobo
mo pa may lakas ka pang sabihin 'yan sa'kin" he hissed and I flinched when
he raised his fist to punch me but I was pulled away by someone and that
someone stood in front of me glaring dangerously at Arman and his friends.

Andrew.

"Ang dami mong hero" Arman sarcastically laughed and Andrew punched him
making him fall backwards. his friends moved closer but they were stopped by
Xander and Miguel. Nakatingin lang ako sakanila unable to move. Tears are
forming in my eyes. Sinuntok ni Xander ang isang kaibigan ni Arman it sinipa
ni Miguel ang tiyan ng isang kaibigan ni Arman. Si Andrew sinuntok niya
pabalik balik si Arman. I shook my head and instantly ran up to Andrew.

"Andrew stop" I said pulling him away from Arman who now has a bleeding
nose and lip. I looked away and stood in front of Andrew. "'Yan! Deserve mo
'yan! Di kapa talaga na kontento sa sinabi ko no? There are many people who
want to defend Anneliese bakit? Kasi importante siya sakanila walang mag
defend sa'yo? Kawawa isa kasing palpak" biglang dating ni Rina I held her
arm to stop her but she removed my hand instead.

"Oh? Magsalita ka, saan na ang lakas mo?! Wag ka kasi mangialam ng buhay
sa iba! Ano ba ang ginawa ni Anneliese para tratuhin mo siya ng ganiyan?
Instead of making other's life a living hell improve yours first kasi wala ka
namang makuha diyan, I hope you learn this time, kita mo? Di lang ako ang
makakalaban mo kundi sila rin" . 

Tumango si Xander and smirked at Arman and the rest before his expression
went black and with a cold tone he said. "Just like what kuya Seb said. Never
mess with a Veloso" and with that he pulled me away from them, Rina, Miguel
and Andrew following us.
We stopped when we reached a quiet place somewhere in the field na may
mga benches. Agad kong niyakap si Xander at tumulo na ang mga luha ko.
Niyakap naman ako nang mahigpit ni Xander. Rina is caressing my hair.
Andrew is standing at the side calming himself and Miguel is scanning his new
made bruises from punching. Percy who just arrived is fanning my face. 

"Tanginang Arman kung makita ko siya agad ko talaga siyang suntukin,

Xander pahiram ng skull na singsing mo yung may matalim na triangle sa
gitna" ramdam ko ang pagtango ni kuya at agad ko naman sinipa si Percy.
"Aray!" reklamo niya at sinamaan ko siya ng tingin.

"Gusto mong ma expell? Buti nalang si Xandy ang president kundi lagot
talaga tayo, isusumbong talaga kita sa vice president kung gagawin mo 'yan" I
threatened and he heavily sighed. "Oo na di na ako manghiram" he said and I
glared at him. "Don't glare at me, suntukan ko siya" he said and now it's my
turn to sigh.

"Liese water" inabot ni Miguel ang bottled water sa akin na kinuha ko at

ininom. Xander was looking for me daw kanina kasi may balita si Miguel kaya
siya andito. "Poor baby wag ka nang iiyak ha kami na bahala sa mga iba
diyan"sabi ni Rina at ngumiti ako sakanya. "Thanks Rina but next time I really
need to defend myself na".

"Mag ingat ka Anne ha, I love you" Xander said kissing the top of my head
and I gave him one last hug before he left. I turned around and saw Andrew
facing his back towards us. I walked towards him and looked at his face. May
sugat siya sa labi niya. I took out my handkerchief and patted his bleeding lip.
He opened his eyes and stared into my eyes. I smiled and went back to
patting his lips. I heard Rina say 'yiee' so I glared at her making her cover her
mouth with the palm of her hand.

"I'm glad he didn't hurt you physically" Andrew said and I smiled. "Thanks for
saving me from his hit Drew" I said at ngumisi siya sa nickname na ginamit ko
para sakaniya. "Anything for my girl" I pursed my lips from what he said and
Rina suddenly spoke. "Bibilhan lang namin kayo ng food ha babalik lang
kami" hinatak na niya si Miguel at si Percy. Well she forcefully pulled Percy
kasi ayaw niyang umalis but nahatak ni Rina si Percy palayo. Ang hilig niya
mang-iwan tsk.

I sat down sa bench and Andrew sat down beside me as well. I looked at the
trees as they sway from the wind and laid my head on Andrew's shoulder.
Nagulat ako na humawak siya sa kamay ko and intertwined it with his. I
looked at him and he smiled. 

"I love you and I hope soon you'll return the same feelings so I can officially
call you mine" he whispered and kissed my forehead. I blinked twice and
looked back at the trees. Somehow I'm getting used to Andrew kissing me.
And..I guess I'm falling in love with him too.
Chapter Fourteen

A week have passed and now kinakabahan ako. Andito ako sa bahay ni Rina,
walang klase ngayon at bukas kasi ngayon birthday na ni dean which means
ngayon din kami mag perform. Kinakabahan talaga ako. Dito na ako nag
aayos sa bahay ni Rina kasi kailangan daw siya nang marunong sa makeup
well di naman ako ganon ka expert but I know how to apply.

"Excited na ako makita kang mag perform mamaya" nakangiting sabi ni Aly at
binatukan siya ni Rina ng unan. "Ako? Ayaw mo akong makita mag perform?!"
tumawa ako at umiling si Aly sakaniya. "I've seen you perform already Rina
mas curious ako sa performance ni Anli" tumango si Rina at ngumisi.
"Magaling 'yan sumayaw pero di ko pa nakita kung paano talaga siya mag
perform kaya excited din ako, mag video ka ha" I just pursed my lips sa hiya.

I stood in front of Rina's long mirror arranging my costume. Mag change outfit
ako mamaya for my solo which is good thing dance cover by Lisa. I'm gonna
change into a black dress pero mag bihis din ako ng black shorts para sa
sapatos ko mag suot ako ng leather boots. Since kakanta rin kami while
dancing di kami uminom ng malamig na tubig. Anything na malamig and
sweets di kami kumakain at uminom. Solo ko ang mauna since short lang
naman siya and then isang performance mula sa mga lalaki tapos kami again
dalawang performance and another performace from the boys tapos solo ni
Zoella. 

"Ang ganda ni Anli best friend ko 'yan?" Rina said and I just rolled my eyes
making her laugh. Iba't iba ang mga susuotin namin sa group para raw we will
stand out. "It's time to go na ilang minuto nalang magsisimula na nag practice
kayo kanina diba?" Aly asked at tumango si Rina habang nilagay niya ang
wallet at phone niya sa backpack niya.

"I made sure na alam talaga nila ang steps at tono para at pina practice ko pa
sila sa bahay nila nag video call ako para malaman ko kung nag practice ba
sila since si Anli naman ang mauna syempre tignan namin siya first tapos pag
time na nang boys mag practice kami" tumango lang si Aly sa sinasabi ni Rina
at kinuha na ang bag niya bago lumabas ng kwarto.
Si Andrew ang kukuha sa amin ngayon at nasa baba na siya. It was supposed
to be Percy pero nag prepare sila para mamaya may match kasi. Tapos sila
kuya dapat pero may pasok sila at si Xander needed na agad sa school para
mag rounds at mag ayos ng event.

Kaya si Andrew nalang wala naman siyang sinalihan na club kasi nga busy
sila sa preparations for the graduation. Umay ngayon ko lang din na realize na
grade 12 pala si Andrew tapos last year na niya 'to. Di ko na siya makita next
year. Bakit ba ngayon ko lang siya na meet. Hay that's okay we can still keep
in touch naman.

Ang bait talaga ni Andrew kahit kailan. He' s a caring person, he's smart, he's
good-looking, kind and a knight in shining armor. He'll also be a shoulder to
cry on. At sa lahat ng ginawa niya para sa akin. Sa pag hintay sa labas nang
classroom ko sa pag hatid pauwi sa pag tanggol at sa pag alaga sa akin. I
found myself falling in love with him. Pero di niya alam 'yun. Paano ba naman.
Sinabi ko sakaniya na di ako pupunta sakaniya well look where I'm going to.

Pag dating namin sa school ang dami nang estudyante nakasuot ng mga
class shirts nila. At ang dami nang booths naka bukas. May posters at
tarpaulin pa si dean. Haha.

"Did you bring your water?" tanong ni Xander ng nakita niya kami. Nasa
backstage na kami sa gym. Ang laki kasi nang gym namin as in. Nalaman ko
pala na ang vice president ang emcee ayaw daw ni Xander mag host kasi
nakakapagod daw kaya ang vice president ang ginawa niyang emcee.
Kaloka.

"Nasa bag" sabi ko at tumango siya bago umalis na nakatingin sa clipboard

niya. Andito na lahat nang members sa sing and dance club naka bihis na sa
mga costume nila.

Si Rina naman nag check sa iba si Aly nasa labas na nakaupo sa front row
daw naghihintay sa amin. Naiwan lang ako dito kasama si Andrew.
"Ang ganda mo naman" sabi niya at mahinang sinampal ko ang braso niya.
"Maganda ka kaya pero may problema ako sa dress mo" tinaasan ko siya ng
kilay at tinignan niya ako mula baba papunta sa itaas.  "Nag shorts ka ba?
Ang iksi dito oh" tumawa ako ng mahina at tinanguan siya.

"Nag shorts ako wag kang mag alala" sabi ko sakaniya at ngumisi namam
siya sa akin. Kinuha ko ang water bottle ko at uminom ng tubig. Nag stretch
na rin ako at nag practice ng konti.

"We will now begin with a sing and dance performance by the sing and dance
club, but first let's greet our dean a happy birthday! The best dean he is" sabi
ni kuya Chris who is the vice president and emcee. At lahat nag sumigaw ng
'happy birthday dean Francisco Cuervo! The best dean!'

"Now let's welcome a solo performance by Anneliese Isis Rosette Veloso"

pumikit ako ng mga mata ko at huminga ng malalim magsimula na. "You'll do
good" sabi ni Andrew at nginitian ko siya. "Nail it Anli!" rinig kong sigaw ni
Rina bago ako tuluyan lumabas ng backstage. Pagkatapos kong humiga sa
itim na upuan nag play na ang 'Good Thing'.

  

Pagkatapos kung sumayaw lahat sila nagsigawan. Nag bow ako at bumalik
na sa backstage. Lahat sila nag palakpakan. Ngumisi ako sakanila at uminom
ng tubig.

"Okay boys mag handa na kayo" sabi ni Rina at agad naman sila tumahimik
at bumalik sa pag practice. "You look hot out there it makes me want to pull
you back here and shield you from all those boys" Andrew said in a husky
voice as he wiped off the sweat on my face. Kinikilig ako inside but I tried to
hide it. Keyword tried. I ended up pursing my lips and looking away because I
was smiling already.

"Yari ka kay Rina pag ginawa mo 'yun" sabi ko sakaniya at tumawa siya ng
mahina. "Ang galing nang best friend ko! Grabe talaga nang expressions sa
mukha mo nakapa thrill at galing sa performance, I'm so proud" Rina cried
(not literally) and I gave her a hug. "Rina naman eh, ikaw kaya nag turo sa
akin" I said and she playfully slapped my arm. "Nagturo ba ako nang facial
expressions? Wala sis wala" she said and I laughed.

"Hey bitawan mo na si Anli baka ma choke mo pa siya" Andrew said making

Rina let go of me and stare at Andrew. "Nag choke ka ba? Di ko magawa 'yun
boss Andrew ano ba ang tingin mo sa akin? Peyk prend? Ha? Di ako peyk
okay, di maganda ang choke mo" tumawa lang kami sa sinabi ni Rina at
nakikitawa na rin siya. When it's supposed to be joke she turned it into choke.
Hay this girl.

"Mag bihis kana ng second costume mo Anli mag practice lang kami konti
dito" sabi ni Rina habang tinignan ang mga lalaki na lumabas na from the
backstage kasi tinatawag na sila ni vice pres.

Tumango ako at kinuha ang maroon backpack ko at naglakad na palabas

papunta sa sa comfort room. "Samahan kita pero sa tapat nang cr lang ako"
sabi ni Andrew and I chuckled. "Of course sa labas nang comfort room ka
lang, ano ka girl? Para pumasok ka sa loob?" pinitik niya ang noo ko at
tumawa lang ako di naman malakas ang pitik niya kaya di siya masakit.

Pagpasok ko sa loob nakita ko ang kaibigan ko noon. Si Roxy. Isa siyang fake
friend siya yung panay lapit kay Criezha. Di ko na siya pinansin at pumasok
na sa loob ng isang cubicle. Pagtapos kong bumihis lumabas ako para ayusin
ang buhok ko.

At andito pa rin si Roxy naglalagay ng lipstick sa labi niya. Pinigilan ko ang

tawa ko kasi hanggang ngayon mukha pa rin siyang alien. Oh my gosh Anli
stop thinking about it na baka di mo mapigilan ang tawa mo.

"Ang galing mo sumayaw ah, ngayon ko lang nalaman" nagulat ako na bigla
niya akong kinausap. "Uh thanks" ngumiti nalang ako sakaniya at lumabas na
sana pero nagsalita siya uli. "Tanda mo pa ba na inaway mo ako noon
through the internet by using a different name?" biglang uminit ang dugo ko
pero nginitian ko lang siya. "Bakit?" tanong ko sakaniya and she just shrugged
her shoulders. I silently tsked and walked out of the comfort room.

Ang tagal na non tapos bata pa ako. Dinadala pa niya 'yun? Grabe kailangan
talaga dadalhin ang mga masamang gawa nang mga bata? Eh bata nga sila
wala pa silang alam sa mga nangyayari o kung ano ang mangyayari. They're
still growing. They're still learning. She should've just let it go.

"Oh lumabas ang birthmark mo is it hot inside?" Andrew asked and I shook
my head. "I just had an encounter with an unimportant person" tumango siya
sa sinabi ko at hinawakan ang kamay ko.

"I have a question to ask you later Anli" sabi niya at tumingin ako sakaniya
naka kunot ang noo. "Ano 'yun?" he chuckled and pinched my cheek.
"Mamaya na nga" he said and I pouted he chuckled and side hugged me.

Pagdating ko sa backstage nag practice kami ng saglit bago uminom ng tubig.

Patapos na ang mga lalaki sa sayaw nila at lahat nagsigawayan sa kanila.

"And now we have Regina Ophelia Kingsom, Zoella Lynn Cruz, Anneliese Isis
Rosette Veloso and Ara June Mendez performing Pretty Savage and Sixteen
shots" kuya Chris announced and everyone applauded for us.

  

  

Everyone cheered for us as we danced. And thinking about what Roxy said I
while ago. My confidence grew. 'Yan iniisip niyo kasi ang flaws ko. Di niyo
nakita ang halaga ko. Ang mga talents ko. Your loss.

After we danced I immediately drank water and leaned on Andrew.

Nakakapagod. Well atleast I had fun. This part will be one of the best
moments in my life. After resting a bit. Rina and I went to the comfort room to
change into our class shirts I tucked in my class shirt in my light blue denim
shorts. Yes pwede mag shorts but sa birthday lang ni dean.

Rina changed into her denim pants. I also changes my shoes para bagay sa
outfit ko and Rina kept the same shoes on. Pag labas namin andiyan na si Aly
at si Andrew nag hintay sa amin.

"Babalik lang kami doon kailangan ko pa asikasuhin ang iba, kita nalang tayo
sa cafeteria" sabi ni Rina at tumango lang ako sakaniya. "Ang galing mo
kanina Anli" nakangiting sabi ni Aly bago sumunod kay Rina.

"Upo muna tayo?" Andrew asked and I nod my head and held onto his arm.
Naglakad kami papunta sa same spot namin sa field. Ang tahimik kasi dito at
ang calm pa nang hangin.

Uupo na sana ako nang biglang humarang si Noah sa harap ko. I mentally
whined because I want to sit down and rest already. I just stared at Noah
waiting for him to speak.

"Anli I'm sorry with what I said before, alam ko na mali ako sorry talaga Anli, I
should've been calmer alam ko pa naman kung ano ang mga nangyayari sa
bahay niyo" he said looking at his feet. I sighed and tapped his shoulder
making him look up at me.

"I accept your apology, I'm also sorry for snapping at you nasaktan lang talaga
ako sa sinabi mo it's also partly my fault because di mo man alam na similar
kayo nang sinasabi ni dad but it's okay" I smiked and he smiled back and
hugged me. "Thank you for accepting my apology" he said. "Okay tama na
'yan" sabi ni Andrew at tumawa si Noah bago ako hiniwalayan.

"Sorry na rin sa sinabi ko sa'yo"  tumango lang si Andrew sakaniya at

tumingin si Noah sa akin. "Bago ka magsalita uupo muna ako" I said and the
both of them chuckled. Hay finally I get to sit down. Umupo na rin si Andrew
sa tabi ko at sinandal ko ang ulo ko sa balikat niya.
"Di ba tinanong mo ako noon kung bakit alam ko na paborito mo ang
strawberry milk?" tumango lang ako at ngumisi siya sa akin. "Alam ko kasi
palagi kita tinatanong sa kaibigan ko na classmate mo rin noon pa
nagkagusto na ako sa'yo not just because of your looks but your personality"

"Sino ang kaibigan mo?" I asked and Andrew chuckled while Noah's smile
faded. "Sa lahat nang sinasabi ko 'yan lang ang itanong mo?" he asked and I
sheepishly smiled. "Na curious kasi ako" sabi ko at tumawa siya. "Fine si
Rico"

"Rico Fuentes?" I asked and he nodded his head. Kaya pala panay tingin siya
sa akin. Lahat nang galaw ko tinitignan niya. Kaya naiinis si Percy sakaniya.
"Naiinis si Percy sakaniya kasi panay tingin siya sa akin" I stated and they
laughed.

"Di pa ako tapos" sabi niya at tumango ako. "Noong sinigawan mo ako
nagulat ako kasi never ka pa naman naging ganiyan and seeing how you
defended someone and educated me mas lalo ako nagkagusto saiyo but I
know you're someone I can't have alam ko may nanalo na based on my
observations tatawanan ko nalang si Percy" Noah lightly laughed and kissed
my cheek before leaving us.

Andrew held my chin and made me face him. He's now wiping the place
where Noah kissed. Lumayo naman ako sakaniya. Ang oa. Siya nga
humahalik sa pisngi ko. Grabe si Noah umalis lang ni wala pa nga akong
nasabi. Malay niya gusto ko rin siya. Well not really. Si Andrew ang gusto ko..
Sh.

"Itanong ko na sa'yo ang tanong ko" Andrew said and I faced him properly.
"Kanina pa ako naghihintay sabihin mo na" I said with my arms crossed and
he chuckled and cleared his throat. "Mahal mo ba ako?" he asked which
caught me off guard.

Sabihin ko ba sakaniya? Ang awkward naman kung sabihin ko sakaniya.

Kinakabahan ako tuloy.
"Anli"

"Huh? Oo"

"Oo? Mahal mo ako?" he clarified and I nod my head. "Yes?" I said but it
sounded like I asked a question he smiled and intertwined our hands together.
"Sabi ko nga diba, sa'kin ka pupunta" he reminded and I raised my upper side
lip at him which made him laugh.

"Will you be my girlfriend Anneliese?"

I blinked twice before answering without thinking.

"Yes Drew, yes" he smiled and kissed me on my lips. I widen my eyes

surprised by his sudden action and returned the kiss. "Now I can officially call
you mine" he smiled and kissed my cheek. 
Chapter Fifteen

Nakabihis na ako ng jersey sa school namin. Pupunta kami ngayon sa school

kasi may match si Percy against Miguel's school which is the Quartz High.
Naka maong pants ako tapos naka tuck in ang jersey naka pony tail na rin
ako. I'm planning to tell Percy about Andrew and me today. Pupunta rin si
Xander ngayon sasabay ako sakaniya. 

Pagbaba ko nakita ko na si kuya Seb papalabas ng bahay. Tumakbo ako

papunta sakanya at yumakap sakanya. He turned around and smiled at me
before returning the hug. Nakita ko na si Xander naghihintay sa sasakyan at
nakatingin sa cellphone niya.

"Ingat kuya" nakangiting sabi ko kay kuya Seb at ngumiti din siya sa aking
bago hinalik ang ulo ko. "Ingat din kayo Anli" sabi niya at kumaway ako
sakaniya bago umalis at pumasok sa sasakyan. "Ang tagal mo" reklamo ni
Xander and I just shrugged. "Nag paalam pa ako kay kuya Seb" sabi ko
sakanya and he just 'tsked' at me. Hmp pikon.

Regina's POV

Ito ako ngayon ang aga aga nasa school na. Suot ko ngayon ang basketball
jersey nang Silver High may wolf ang gitna tapos color grey siya at sa likuran
makita mo ang surname mo at ang jersey number mo with the school's name.

Kasama ko si Aly ngayon na hawak ang phone niya at may binabasa. Oo

break time naman dapat ngayon pero nag aaral pa siya. This girl really needs
to take a break. Nag alala na tuloy ako sa mental health niya. Alam ko na nag
pupuyat 'yan. Kadalasan si Anli kasi kapag madaling araw na nag message
sa sa'kin bigla nang kung ano-ano.
Nag practice na ang basketball team namin at ang makalaban nila ay ang
Quartz High school nang isa pang kaibigan ni Anli na si.. Miguel ba 'yon? Di
ko na matandaan. Basta ayun nag practice sila at umiikot lang ako dito
naghahanap nang perfect booth.

Yes! At sakto lang na tapos na sila mag set up. Excited na ako muahaha.
Kabahan ka na Anli at Andrew. Anlew. Ano sila Stew? Andri na nga..parang
ang pangit. Ay ewan. 'yoko na mag isip. Naglalakad ako papunta sa Jail Booth
na nakangiti at humarang sa estyudante na in charge sa booth.

"Regina Kingsom? What do you need?" aba english. "May i set up ako for fifty
minutes habulin niyo sila agad pag dating nila" sabi ko at binigay niya sa'kin
ang isang long blue notebook at nilagay ko doon ang pangalan ni Anli at ni
Andrew.

This is gonna be so fun. Haha. Kabado ka na sis. Binalik ko sa lalaki at

naglagay ng fifty pesos sa jar nila tsaka umalis. Nag ikot pa kami ni Aly
naghahanap nang pastry booth. Alam ko naman na magagalit 'yun sa akin
kaya why not I buy cheesecake para umalis na agad ang  galit niya pag nakita
niya ang cheesecake sa kamay ko. Mahina siya sa mga sweets. Lalo na sa
cheesecake.

"Anong ibibili mo dito?" tanong ni Aly sa' kin at tinaasan ko siya ng isang kilay.
"Oh? Tapos kana mag-aral?" tanong ko sakanya at umiling siya kaya napa
buntong hininga ako. "Aly magpahinga ka nga even though saglit lang basta
magpahinga ka" sabi ko sakaniya at umiling siya. "Bahala ka diyan kapag
nagkasakit ka wag kang pupunta sa'kin, sinabihan na kita ngayon na
magpahinga ka" dagdag ko at bumalik na siya sa pag-aaral.

Nang nabili ko na ang cheesecake ni Anli at iba pang snacks umupo kami ni
Aly sa isang bench malapit sa jail booth. Habang nag aaral siya kumakain
lang ako dito at inaabangan sina Anli at Andrew.

"Hi Rina" nakangiting bati sa'kin ni Noah. Ngumisi naman ako at binigyan siya
ng space para maka upo siya sa tabi namin. "Kamusta? Balita ko nag sorry ka
na kay Anli?" tumango siya at ngumisi ako sakaniya. "Buti naman, kasalanan
mo talaga 'yun" pagkasabi ko nun agad ako binatukan ni Noah sa braso kaya
tumawa ako.

"May nag-aaral dito, tahimik din minsan hm?" sabi ni Aly at sinamaan ko siya
ng tingin pero di niya ako pinapansin. "Nag aaral ka pa rin?!" di maka
paniwalang tanong ni Noah at sinamaan siya ni Aly kasi ang ingay niya.

"Problema mo?" pag tataray ni Aly at umiling naman si Noah sakaniya.

"Hanggang ngayon nag-aaral ka pa rin, magpahinga ka naman minsan Aly
isipin mo muna sarili mo bago ang iba"  sabi ni Noah at tumango ako sa sinabi
niya.

"But I am doing this for myself Noah, this is for my future" seryosong sabi ni
Aly at umiling uli si Noah sakaniya. "Bakit? Nag-aaral naman kami para sa
kinabukasan namin pero di kami umaabot sa point na masira ang mental
health namin, you have little time left in being a teenager Aly, like what they
say high school is the most memorable times, grade 120 na tayo next year,
ginawa mo pa rin naman 'to para sa mga magulang mo, think of yourself this
time Aly" umiwas ng tingin si Aly sa amin at napa buntong hinga.

It took a full 20 minutes before she respond to Noah's statement.

"Fine. I' ll study less. Saulo ko naman siguro lahat nang discussion nang mga
guro ko at wala namang pasok ngayon at bukas so I'll have fun with you guys
today and rest for tomorrow" sabi niya at yumakap ako sakaniya making her
chuckle. "Mag-aaral na ako sa Sunday ha" sabi niya at tumango ako
sakaniya.

May narinig kaming sigawan kaya napalingon ako sa kinaroroonan nito.

Nakita namin si Anli na nasa grip nang dalawang estudyante at sinisigawan
niya ito habang hinihila siya papunta sa jail booth. Haha. Nang nakapasok na
si Anli nakita na namin si Andrew na hinihila ng dalawa pang estudyante pero
mukha silang nahirapan kasi nakipag talo pa si Andrew sakanila. Tumawa
kami habang pinapanood ang dalawang estudyante na nahihirapan kay
Andrew.
"Ikaw ang nag set up sakanila?" tanong ni Noah sa akin at tumango ako
natatawa pa rin. "Gago ka magagalit si Anli sa'yo" natatawang sabi ni Noah at
umiling ako.

Anneliese's POV

Bumaba na ako ng sasakyan at nagpaalam kay Xander bago naglakad

patungo sa Gym. Ando'n daw si Percy nag practice so pupuntahan ko nalang
siya. Nagsabi na rin ako kay Andrew na sa Gym kami magkita para
mapakilala ko ja siya kay Percy bilang jowa ko. At natatakot ako sa maging
reaksyon niya.

Papasok na sana ako pero nagulat ako na may kumapit sa dalawang braso
ko at hinila ako papalayo sa Gym. Tumingin ako sa dalawang gilid ko at
dalawang estudyanteng lalaki ang nakita ko. I squirmed in their grip pero mas
humigit pa ang kapit nila sa'kin.

"Hoy ano ba!? Sa'n niyo 'ko dadalhin?!" sigaw ko at sinubukang maka alis sa
kapit nila. "Stay still" sabi ng isa at uminit ang dugo ko. "Bitawan niyo ko!"
sigaw ko pero di nila ako pinapansin. This is Arman' s doing. Ginawa na niya
'to noon alam ko siya ang may gawa nito. Ano kaya ang sinasabi niya a
dalawang mokong 'to?

"Bitawan niyo ko ano ba!" sigaw ko uli at tumingin sila sa harap kaya
napatingin ako doon. May isang malaki na tent at ang nakalagay doon ay 'jail
booth'  gago sino ang naglagay sa pangalan ko dito?!

"Cellphone please" sabi ng isang lalaki at ngumisi pa siya. Umiling ako at

tumingin sa ibang direksyon pero kinuha na sa dalawang lalaki ang cellphone
ko sa loob nang bag ko. "Hoy! Alam niyo ba na illegal 'yan?! Gusto niyo ba na
gawan ko kayo ng complaint?!" sigaw ko at tumawa lang ang lalaki sa harap
ko.
"Chillax Ms. Veloso, this is just a booth. You'll be spending fifty minutes with
someone" sabi niya at natahimik ako and they took this chance to push me
inside the tent may dalawang upuan at umupo ako sa isa.

Sino ang makasama ko? Aish lagot talaga sa'kin ang nag lagay ng pangalan
ko! Dapat nasa gym na ako ngayon!

May narinig akong sigawan sa labas and the next thing I knew Andrew was
being pushed inside the tent. He gave the entrance of the tent the finger
before heavily sighing and turned around. Gulat na gulat siya nang nakita niya
ako ako rin naman gulat ako na siya ang pumasok sa loob nang tent. Akala ko
sino ang makasama ko ngayon.

"Anli?" tawag niya sa'kin at tinaasan ko lang siya ng kilay. "Di ako ang
naglagay ng pangalan mo di ko nga alam na ikaw ang makasama ko at lalo
nang di ko alam na nalagay ang pangalan ko sa booth na'to" pagliwanag ko at
tumawa siya nang mahina.

"So what do we do now?" tanong niya and I shrug my shoulder. "Ewan ko"  he
smiled and began thinking then snapped his fingers. "Let's do twenty
questions to get to know each other" he smiled at tumango nalang ako.

"Favorite color? Yellow" tanong niya at agad naman ako sumagot. "Any pastel
color" ngumisi siya at nag tanong ulit. "Favorite food? Pasta"  I scrunched my
nose before answering. "None" kumunot ang noo niya at tumawa ako.

"Wala talaga akong favorite kasi masarap naman lahat na natikman ko" I said
and he laughed and the game went on.

"Time's up please retrieve your belongings here" sabi ng isang estudyante at

agad naman kami tumayo at naglakad palabas ng tent. Finally. I took my
phone and glanced at the blue long notebook on the desk in front of another
student.

At nakita ko ang pangalan ni Rina sa mga tao na mag set up nang mga tao sa
jail booth. I took a deep breath in and searched the place and it finally landed
on Rina who is sitting on a nearby bench. Agad ko siya pinuntahan with an
angry expression.

"Uy sorry na atleast nag bonding kayo" sabi niya at umiling ako. "Rina-"

"For you best friend ku" inabot niya sa'kin ang isang box na cheesecake at
agad ko naman kinuha sa mga kamay niya. "Thanks Rina!" nakangising sabi
ko sakaniya. Uupo na sana ako pero na realise ko ang nangyari.

"Rina di pa ako tapos" seryosong sabi ko at nag peace sign sa'kin si Rina.
"Wala ka nang magawa beh, kinuha mo na ang peace offering ko"
nakangiting sabi niya at umiling nalang ako bago umupo sa gitna ni Noah at ni
Aly.

"You're unbelievable Rina" I stated at nag bleh siya sa'kin. Tumingin si Noah
sa watch niya at tumayo. "Tara na magsimula na ang match" sabi niya at
tumango ako. Magkasabay kami ni Rina lumakad at nakita ko si Andrew sa
tapat nang Gym hinahanap ako.

Tumawa ako at tumakbo sakaniya para yumakap sakanya. Lumingon siya

sa'kin at ngumiti.

"Where were you? Kanina pa ako hanap ng hanap sa'yo" tanong niya. I stood
by his side with my other arm wrapped around him and his arm wrapped
around my waist. "Sana all" rinig kong sabi ni Rina kaya I couldn't help but roll
my eyes.

"Nakay Rina ako, siya pala ang naglagay sa pangalan natin" sabi ko at
lumingon si Andrew kay Rina at ngumisi. "Thanks Rina!" I widen my eyes and
hit him. Akala ko magagalit siya?! "You're welcome dude!" sabi ni Rina at
sinamaan ko siya nang tingin.

"Akala ko magagalit ka" I said as we took our seats inside the gym. "Ba't ako
magagalit? Na solo nga kita" nakangiting sabi niya at umiwas ako nang tingin
tsaka ngumiti.
"Mamaya na kayo mag loving loving, magsimula na ang laro kaya sh!"
reklamo ni Rina at tumawa kami. "Let us all welcome Silver High's Alphas!"
sabi nang emcee at agad nahsigawan ang mga taga SH sali na kami ni Rina
diyan.

"WOOH! GO PERCY AND THE TEAM!" sigaw ko. "GO PERCIVAL! EXCITED
NA AKO MAKITA KANG HEART BROKEN!" sigaw ni Noah kaya binatukan ko
siya. Sirang lalaki.

Nang makuha ni Percy ang bola agad na nag si takbuhan ang iba. Percy
passed the ball to kuya John and kuya John dribbled his way around two
players from QH ( Quartz High) before passing it to Saimon? I think that was
his name.

Saimon dribbled his way and passed the ball to Precy and Percy threw the
ball in the hoop and boom! They got one point. Everyone cheered as our team
got another point. Nagistakbuhan nanaman ang iba at biglang na slide si
Percy kaya na agaw sa kabila ang bola. Tumawa ako pero agad ko na rin
tinakpan ang bibig ko. Baka may mang bash sa'kin. Eepal nanaman ang iba.
Ha! Caught on tape 'yun!

In the end Alphas won and everyone cheered for our team. Galit na galit si
Percy Jackson ginamit na niya ang powers niya. Haha. Agad nag line ang
Alphas sa harap namin si Percy nasa harap nila at may hawak silang cylinder
balloons na may pangalan na Alphas of the pack.

"1 2 3!" bilang ni Percy at agad nag chant ang buong SHS students.

"SH SILVER HIGH SH SILVER HIGH WE HOWL AT THE MOON WE RUN

AT NIGHT SH SILVER HIGH SH SILVER HIGH"

"1 2 3!" bilang uli ni Percy.

"WE ARE THE ALPHAS YOU ARE THE PACK WE ARE THE ALPHAS OF
THE PACK"
We hit our balloons with the other balloons three times before howling. And
everyone cheered. Ang lakas talaga nang energy nang taga SH and the
howling part is my favorite. Waahh I wanna hear our chant again.

Agad ako tumayo at tumakbo pababa para puntahan si Percy. I jumped on

him and gave him a big hug.

"I'm so proud of you!" masayang sabi ko at ngumiti siya sa'kin. "Even though
nadapa ang captain panalo pa rin!" sigaw ko at sinamaan niya ako nang tingin
pero tumawa ang iba. "Oy caught on tape 'yooon" I teased and he shook his
head at me making me laugh.

"Pa send naman mamaya Anneliese" sabi ng isang teammate niya at

tumango ako. "Sige message mo nalang ako sa messenger" binatukan ako ni
Percy kaya binatukan ko rin siya. "Subukan mong e send" he threatened but I
just laughed.

"Sige subukan ko" I smiled before walking away. "Anliiii" Percy whined and I
just laughed at him. Once I got out of the gym I immediately saw Andrew,
Rina, Aly and Noah waiting for me.

"Nasaan si Percival?" tanong ni Noah at tinuro ko ang gym. "Nag congratulate

pa sa teammates" sabi ko at tumango siya.

Andito kami ngayon sa field naghintay kay Percy. May mini picnic kami rito.
Sa resto dapat kami kakain pero bawal pang lumabas kasi may event pa
mamaya kaya dito nalang kami mag celebrate. Libre naman lahat ni Rina.

"Uy congrats Percy! Nadapa pa ah" sabi ni Rina at sinamaan siya ng tingin ni
Percy. "Legend talaga si Precy nadapa pa nga nanalo pa, iba talaga" sabi ni
Aly at tumawa kami.

Tumingin sa akin si Percy at kay Andrew tinaasan niya ako ng kilay at biglang
nanahimik ang iba. I cleared my throat and stood up to properly talk to Percy
at tumayo na rin si Andrew.
"Congrats Percival" nakangiting sabi ni Andrew at tumango lang si Percy
sakaniya. "Uhm Perc... Si Andrew nga pala boyfriend ko" I introduced and
Percy's gaze darkened.

"At sinong nag sabi na pwede mo siya maging boyfriend?" tanong ni Percy
sa'kin which made my blood boil. "Bakit hindi? Mahal naman namin ang isa't
isa, wag ka ngang makialam sa relasyon namin Percy" inis na sabi ko
sakanya.

"Oh really Anneliese? What if sasabihin ko sa'yo na pera lang at ganda mo

ang gusto niya? He'll just play with you and leave you in the dirt once he gets
bored!" inis rin na sabi ni Percy sa akin and I could see his jaw clenching.

"Ayan nanaman sa pag judge! Di mo pa nga kilala ang tao ganiyan ka na

magsalita, isang WHAT IF lang 'yan Percival hindi ganiyang tao si Andrew,
mabait siya tangina mo!" I yelled and he stepped closer to me but was pushed
away by Andrew.

"Step away Hijo de puta" Percy growled but Andrew didn't move instead he
hid me behind him. "Calm yourself down, we'll get back once you've cooled
down" Andrew said and pulled me away.

"Bwesit ka bitawan mo siya!" sigaw ni Percy which made me turn towards him
an angry expression on my face and my chest rising and falling heavily. "WHY
CAN'T YOU JUST ACCEPT US PERCY!? MAHAL KO NGA DIBA?! DAPAT
MAGING MASAYA KA! TANGINA BEST FRIEND BA ANG TAWAG NUN?!" I
snapped and I could see pain evident on Percy's eyes.

"MAGING GANITO AKO ANNELIESE KASI MAHAL KITA! FUCK! MAHAL

KITA NOON PA AT DI KITA KAYANG MAKITA SA IBA"

I opened my mouth and closed it. He…He..loves.. Me? But… No. Best friend
ko lang siya. Hindi pwede.  Go Percival excited na ako makita kang ma heart
broken. Kaya pala ganiyan ang pag sigaw ni Noah kanina. Alam niya na may
gusto sa'kin ang best friend ko.
"Sinubukan ko nang buharin ang mahal ko para sa'yo Anneliese pero tangina
ayaw niya talaga. Andito pa rin. Pinili ka pa rin. Alam ko ano ang takbo sa
utak nang ibang lalaki at ayaw lang kita mapunta sa masama"

"Tandaan mo Percy ibang lalaki ang sinabi mo at hindi ganiyan si Andrew, I'm
sorry pero kaibigan lang kita, it's either you accept us or it's friendship over"
Chapter Sixteen

I turned around and pulled Andrew with me. May gusto sa'kin ang kaibigan
ko? At ngayon ko lang talaga nalaman. Kailan pa? Palagi kaming magkasama
at ngayon ko lang nalaman na may feelings siya para sa'kin.

Dapat di ko sinabi 'yun. Alam ko saktan na si Percy. Pero di pa naman niya

kilala si Andrew makasabi siya nang ganiyan.   I hope he accepts us cause' I
really don't want to end our friendship. Sigh. I need to go to someone.

"Okay ka lang Anli?" tanong sa'kin ni Andrew at ngumiti ako sakanya bago
tumango. "He'll accept us, it's just a big shock for him" sabi niya at hinalikan
ang noo ko. I nod my head and took out my phone to message the person I
always go to aside from my brothers and Percy.

"Text mo nalang ako ha or tawagan mo nalang ako mamaya, may

pupuntahan pa ako" paalam ko sa kaniya and he furrowed his eyebrows at
me. "Saan ka pupunta? Bawal lumabas"

"It's really important, I need to go" and with that I stood up and walked towards
our school gate. "Miss saan ka pupunta? Di pa kayo pwede lumabas" sabi
nang guard and my fake tears started falling down.

"Palabasin mo ako guard kailangan ko puntahan ang kuya ko, nadisgrasiya

po siya, please guard" pagmamakaawa ko sakanya at agad naman ako
pinalabas ng guard.

I wiped my fake tears and started walking inside Quartz High. I roamed
around and finally found Miguel sitting near the gazeebo while singing
something. I walked towards him and without warning enveloped him in a hug.

"What's wrong Liese?" he asked and now real tears started falling from my
eyes. "Si Percy" iyak ko and he let go of my arms to face me properly. "What
did he do to you?"  I wiped my tears and started telling him what happened
while looking at my lap.
"It's okay, he'll get over it for sure. It's normal when you love someone. I'll talk
to him and I know for sure your brothers will know about this since you told the
guard that one of your kuyas are injured"

Aish. Dapat pala ibang rason ang ginamit ko. Obviously sabihin ni guard kay
Xander ang nangyari kasi magkapatid kami. And as if on cue my phone
started ringing and Xander's name popped up on my phone.

Ito pa naman ang kapatid ko na nakakatakot kapag galit and sure ako galit 'to.
Hay it's now or never Anli.

"Hello?"

[ Where are you.]

Oh geez ang lamig nang boses ni Xander. Kinakabahan na ako tuloy.

Tangina.

"Uhm.. Nasa school bakit?"

[ Cut the bullshit Anli, sinabi ng guard na kailangan ka raw lumabas kasi
nadisgrasiya ang isa sa mga kuya natin. I called kuya Seb, kuya Oli and
Gavin pero okay lang sila] 

oh no.

"Oh really? Fake news lang pala 'yun huehue"

[Anli..]

"Yes Xandy?"

[WHERE THE FUCK ARE YOU?!]

Percival's POV
"Pwede bang uminom ako nang alak?" I asked and everyone shook their
head at me. "I just wanna forget all of this, gusto ko nang makalimutan lahat
nang nangyari" I placed my left hand in the pocket of my varsity jacket and the
other went to my hair. 

"Diba sabi ko na sa'yo mapupunta siya sa iba kung di mo uunahan, ayan

naunahan ka na, regretting your decisions now mr. Lamuerte?" sabi di Rina
sa'kin na ikinaiinisan ko. "Shut up Kingsom" I hissed and she just shook her
head at me.

Bwesit na Andrew na 'yun. Ang sarap manuntok ng pader pero ayoko si Noah
at si Anli lang ang gumagawa nyan. Sure ako na natuwa na ang Andrew na
'yun kasi binasted ako ni Anli sa harap nang mga kaibigan namin. 

"Don't drink Percy. You're still a minor" Aly reminded and I curtly nod my head
at her. Tumayo si Noah at tumabi sa akin nakangiti. "Natuwa na akong makita
ka na broken hearted" sabi niya dahilan sa pag init nang dugo ko.

"E ikaw? Di ba nagkagusto ka rin kay Anli?" tanong ko sakaniya. Ang weird
lang maging ganito lang siya eh pinag-awayan nga namin si Anli noon.

"Meron..noon, and I realized na attraction lang iyon, na realize ko 'yun nung

nagalit si Anli sa akin, I had the time to think and finally realized that I didn't
fall in love with her, I was attracted to her, not just by her beauty but because
she is endeavor to become who she ought to become"

Ngumiti siya sa akin pero nakatingin lang ako sakaniya binabasa ang mukha
niya. Pero wala talaga akong nakitang emotion na sakit. Wala talaga. His
eyes reflects happiness and calmness. He chuckled and patted my shoulder.

"And here's what I want to tell you and you girls" tumingin siya kay Rina at Aly
na nakatingin na din sakaniya. "Never chase someone you're just attracted to,
chase the one you truly love, I'm glad I realized sooner that I was only
attracted to Anneliese or else I would've hurt her in the end"
Mahal ko ba ang kaibigan ko o na attract lang ako sakaniya? Ang ganda niya,
malakas siya, mabait at may pagka sungit. She can be a trouble maker. She's
multi talented, brave and a sensitive person. I want to protect her like how her
brothers protect her and I want to see wipe off her frown and replace it with a
genuine smile.

Mahal ko siya. At siya lang ang mamahalin ko. I love her so much I would fly
over the moon and risk my life coming back. I would take a bullet for her.
That's how much I love her to the point that I would die for her.

She will not slip away from me because I will fight for her. My goddess. Mi
amor. 

Anneliese's POV

Nakaupo ako ngayon sa living room. Wala si dad sa bahay. Palagi lang
naman 'yun wala. Wala rin si mommy kasi busy sa company. Once I got home
Xandy pulled me inside the living room and made me sit down sa couch.

Di pa niya ako kinakausap pero halata sa mukha niya na galit siya and I don't
like seeing Xandy mad. Lalo na sa' kin. Hinihintay namin si Gavin, kuya Oli
and kuya Seb. Papauwi na daw sila at alam ko na nainis ang dalawa kong
kuya pero si Gavin nag-alala. I know them. At lahat naman sila nakakatakot
makitang magalit. It's just Xandy's the worst when it comes to me. Si kuya Oli
at Seb they can't stay mad at me but Xandy can. Si Gavin he doesn't get mad
at me.

Like really. He doesn't mainis lang siya pero ilang saglit mabura na ang inis
niya. Narinig ko ang pagbukas nang pinto sa main door at ang unang
pumasok sa living room ay si kuya Seb na halata ang inis sa mukha niya.
Nakasuot siya nang uniform nila at dala ang laptop bag niya at aklat sa
kabilang braso niya. Ang sunod ay si Gavin na magulo ang buhok at
nakalagay ang camera strap sa leeg niya halata ang pag-alala sa mukha niya
at nung nakita niya ako saka siya huminga nang malalim at nilapitan ako.
"We've been informed that you lied to the guard that one of us got into an
accident to get out of school, tell us where you went and your reason"
seryosong sabi ni kuya Oli pagdating niya sa living room at umupo siya sa
tapat ko.

Mukhang may event sila kanina kasi naka dress shirt at black pants pa si
kuya. Tumabi si kuya Seb sakaniya na naka tingin lang sa'kin with a raised
eyebrow and kuya Oli loosened his tie. Tumingin ako ni Xander na mukhang
hindi na maka hintay at sasabog na.

"I went to Miguel b-because I needed someone at the moment at alam ko

naman na busy si Xander at di ko malapitan sina Rina kasi.. Malapit sila kay
Percy at.." I paused to look at their reactions but continued when they had
blank expressions on theit faces except Gavin. Ang creepy. Am I also creepy
when I show a blank expression?

"Nag-away kami ni Percy" I said in a hushed tone pero narinig naman nila.
"Ano ang pinagawayan niyo?" kuya Seb asked and I looked up to them and all
of them share the same expression again. Surprised.

Yeah Percy and I don't really fight and this is the first fight that was heavy and
intense to the point that I lied and escaped school to find comfort. But how can
I tell them that we fought about Andrew? Di pa naman ako ready na sasabihin
sakanila because of how Percy reacted awhile ago.

"You will tell us or we will have to force it out from you?" Xander asked in a
threatening tone his fists clenched and his veins on his hands and neck are
visible. I blinked twice and looked down on my lap and fiddled with my fingers.

"Xander" I heard Gavin say and from my peripheral vision Xander stood up
and started walking towards Gavin but kuya Seb stopped him. "Ano?! Palagi
mo nalang ba e baby si Anli, Gavin?! May mali siyang ginawa! Ayaw pa niya
sabihin sa atin kung ano ang pinag awayan nila!" Xander snapped which
made me look up to them. Gavin immediately stood up and walked towards
Xander who is in kuya Seb's arms.
"We're also not in the position to pry something from her that she doesn't want
to tell. Privacy nila 'yun diba? We should respect that kasi nirespeto din tayo ni
Anli. Is that a good example of an older brother Alexander? Do you want our
sister to snap at everyone like this?" lamig na sabi ni Gavin kay Xander na
nakatingin kay Gavin nang masama.

"Gavin does have a point Alexander Knight, you acted on your emotions
again, go cool down. Anneliese Isis tell us when you're ready and don't cry, I
can see your tears forming in your eyes. Sebastian Grey stay with me here.
Gavin Clifford go and change into much comfortable clothes. Rest." kuya Oli
instructed and everyone started moving. Sinamaan ako nang tingin ni Xander
bago siya umakyat. Followed by Gavin.

I blinked my tears away and stood up but my two eldest brothers made me sit
down. Kuya Seb sat beside me and kuya Oli knelt in front of me now with a
much softer expression.

"Anli, I know you hate us being mad and we're sorry for making you sit here
feeling uncomfy and close to tears when Xander yelled and Gavin arguing
with him, we're sorry for that" sabi ni kuya Seb pero di ko siya tinignan.

"Nag-alala lang kami sa'yo, we don't want you getting hurt. I will surely get
blood in my hands when I found out you got hurt" I glared at kuya Oli as he
said the blood in my hands part and he just chuckled at me.

"Ikaw lang ang babaeng kapatid namin at ikaw pa ang bunso sa lahat,
whatever happened between you and Percy I'm sure it will be fixed"
nakangiting sabi niya bago niya ako niyakap at yumakap na rin ako sakaniya.
Once he let go of the hug I involuntarily blurted out everything that happened.

"We respect your decision in going into a relationship with someone. Basta di
ka lang niya saktan, kung mangyari 'yun baka mapatay ko siya" sabi ni kuya
Seb at sinampal ko ang braso niya.
"Wag ka ngang magsabi nang ganiyan, it' s not good" reklamo ko at umiling
lang siya. "So when can we meet the stronzo?" tanong ni kuya Oli at
sinamaan ko siya nang tingin and he just shrugged.

I sighed and pulled kuya Oli on the couch so I can cuddle with both my kuyas.
"Kakausapin ko bukas si Andrew"

"Wag mo akong pigilan mang threat sakaniya ha, para 'yan sa' yo" sabi ni
kuya Seb and I rolled my eyes.

"Oo na oo na, now shut up, I'm tired" I said and snuggled closer to the both of
them and shut my eyes close.
Chapter Seventeen

Nakasuot na ako nang uniform ko at palabas na nang bahay pero nakapag

pigil ako nang makita ko si Andrew sa living room namin. Kausap niya si
mommy at ang mga kapatid ko.

What is he doing here?

"Good morning?" I said but it came out like a question. Napatingin silang lahat
sakin at ngumiti lang ako. "My baby girl! Di mo sinabi may jowa ka na"
nakangiting sabi ni mommy sa'kin and I chuckled.

"Sorry na mommy" I said and she chuckled. I walked towards Andrew and he
gave me a kiss on my forehead. Nahiya tuloy ako kasi ginawa niya 'yun sa
harap nang mga kapatid ko at sa ina ko.

"Awe my baby is growing up na" mom faked cried and I gave her a pout. "And
you' re getting old, mom" sabi ni Xander who earned a glare from mom and
made us laugh.

"Wag kang pupunta sa'kin kapag-"  she was cut off by Xander who suddenly
yelled. "Hoy problema mo?! Sumisigaw sigaw ka diyan nang walang dahilan,
ano ka baliw?" Gavin said at binatukan siya ni Xander.

"Hay nako ALEX" mom said emphasising the Alex kaya napataas ako nang
isang kilay sakanila. Something's fishy.

Tumingin si Xander sa'kin at napa buntong hinga. Tsaka lumapit sa'kin para
yumakap. "I love you very much so don't put anything in your head that will
make suspicious for you" sabi niya pagkatapos niyang halikan ang noo ko.

Mas nakaka suspicious. Ewan ko na nga bahala na si Xander diyan. Ang

dami nilang tinatago sa'kin. Pag totoo talagang madami silang tinatago sa'kin
di ko talaga sila kakausapin for four weeks and that's considered as one
month.
"Andrew, wag mong sasaktan ang kapatid ko ha" seryosong sabi ni kuya Seb
kaya napatingin ako kay Andrew na may seryosong expression. "Oo naman,
ako pa? Di ko siya kayang saktan" Andrew said and mom let out another 'awe'
making me feel more embarrassed.

"Ew, tara na nga ma late na tayong lahat, ingat mader!" sabi ni Gavin at
tinaasan ko siya nang isang kilay. "Maka ew ka akala mo blank blank" I
teasingly smiled and he just rolled his eyes at me. Sus dapat talaga nag iisip
na 'yan nang paraan. Parang bata.

I shook my head and linked my arm with Andrew's. I'm still sad about Percy
and I's fight at di ako sanay na wala siya sa bahay every afternoon or
morning. Nakakalungkot lang. Sigh. He is there for me in everything. Like
literally. I gave each of my brother's a hug before going inside Drew's car.

        

A few months have passed and everyone knows Andrew and I are in a
relationship. Si dad? Akala ko nga magagalit siya. Pero wala siyang pakialam
ni isa wala talaga. Sigh, Percy and I are also not in speaking terms. Nagulat
nga ako na nag transfer siya nang seat. The bullying still continues at
paminsan minsan lumalaban ako. But most of the time I walk away. I don't like
wasting my time listening to unessessay things immature people say.

Kuya Seb also learned about my encounter with Arman na muntik na niya
akong masuntok sa mukha. And kuya was furious, silang lahat actually. So
mommy agreed with kuya to enroll me into a martial arts class conducted by
his friend who is my seatmate's older brother and kuya Daniel teaches all
kinds of martial arts and that's what I'm going to be learning. Every kind of
martial arts.

"Harder Anneliese!" sigaw ni kuya Danny. I'm in my martial arts class right
now and it's a Saturday. "This is all I got kuya" I muttered and he shook his
head. I'm punching the punching bags right now at alam ko my bones will be
sore later on. Pero nasanay na ako so maybe not that much pain.

"Listen to me Veloso" kuya Danny said and I stopped punching to look at him.
"Once you make that punching bag sway directly turn to your right and kick
the dummy on its sides may isang dummy sa isang gilid mo immediately take
your dagger out and throw it straight on its chest kuha mo?" I nod and began
punching the bag again pero ayaw niya talaga mag sway.

"Leader nang ISIS!" I heard kuya yell and I paused pain engulfing every fiber
in me. "Imagine those people who make you angry and let that anger out on
the punching bag, come on Anli! Show me what a Veloso can do" I look at the
boxing gloves on my hand and look back at the punching  bag before nodding.

Images from when my father throwing hurtful words at me appeared. People

who mocked and laughed at me appeared. Me crying appeared. I gave the
bag one very hard punch and it forcefully swayed not a small sway but a big
sway. I went to my side and kicked the dummy on the side making it fall
earning an applause from kuya Danny I turn to my other side and took out my
dagger from my boots and swiftly threw it straight on the dummy's chest
where the heart is located. 

"Well done Anneliese, your brothers will be very proud of you" ngumiti ako kay
kuya Danny at uminom nang tubig bago umupo sa isang bench. "Matapang
ka Anli, kaya mong harapan ang mga bagyo na paparating sa iyo at kapag
nawala na ang mga bagyo na iyon andiyan ka pa rin nakatayo, I admire your
strength, I really do, keep it up kiddo" 

"Salamat kuya" ngumiti siya tsaka umalis. My training's over. Finally. I took my
extra clothes and went inside the bathroom to change. Paglabas ko nakita ko
si Andrew nakaupo sa bench kung saan ang duffle bag ko. Ngumiti ako at
naglakad papunta sakanya. I kissed his cheek at nag-angat siya nang tingin
sa'kin bago ngumiti.

"Why are you here?" I asked habang nag ayos nang mga gamit. Tinaasan
niya ako nang isang kilay at tinaasan ko rin siya. "Bakit? Ayaw mo bang
makasama ako?" tanong niya at tumawa ako nang mahina bago siya
binatukan at yumakap ako sakaniya. "Ang oa mo Drew" sabi ko and he
chuckled bago hinalikan ang ulo ko.

"Is my baby tired?" he asked at tumango ako. "I need an energizer, mag-aral
pa ako mamaya" I broke our hug to pick up my bag and the both of us started
walking out of the building. "Halikan nalang kaya kita?" he asked and I
scrunched my nose. "Kadiri" I replied and he pushed me slightly making me
laugh. "Ang kapal ng mukha mo by" he said which made me laugh more.

"Saan ba tayo pupunta?" I asked nang nasa car na kami. "First bilhan kita
nang cheesecake and next pupunta tayo nang beach para manood nang
sunset" he said and I smiled. "Ang sweet naman nang jowa ko, hope
everyone" I smiled and he shook his head at me making me chuckle.

Pero nagulat ako nang lumapit siya sa'kin nakatingin lang sa mga mata ko
and with a baritone voice he said. "I want to watch the sunset with the person I
love. With the person I want to grow old with and that's you baby" I nervously
gulped and licked my lips and I wish I never did that because his eyes averted
to my lips. I cleared my throat and looked away making him laugh.

"You're so sappy Drew, I love you too" I muttered and he smiled. And
continued driving. I'm so sure that my cheeks were as read as a tomato
kanina. Nahiya na tuloy ako. Well let's just use this hiya sa next training ko
which will be on Monday after class. I looked at my Andrew who is driving and
smiled. Ang gwapo naman nang jowa ko. I love him very much and trust him. 

He makes me happy and he takes all my problems away with his hugs and
kisses. Huminto siya sa isang cafe. While I wait here in the car I opened my
phone to see a message from my brother asking where I am. Two messages
actually. 

( When Anneliese will send a message 'yun ang nilagay na pangalan sa

person para kay Anneliese)

Xander,
Hoy pato asan kana? Kanina pa natapos training mo ah

Pato,

Hello ka rin baboy, sinundo ako ni Andrew. Uuwi ako before the sunsets, Love
you!

Gavin,

Sis where are you?

My favorite sibling,

Kasama ko si Andrew, uuwi ako before the sunsets, I love you!

After I hit send Andrew came back with a box of cheesecake and two
milkshakes. And I'm guessing the strawberry milkshake is for me and his is
the chocolate one. Ngumiti ako sakaniya at nag thank you. And now we're
going to the beach to watch the sunset.

"Ang ganda nang view dito, take a picture of me please" I asked and he
happily took my phone and I posed with my milkshake tilting my head at the
side and smiled at the camera. "Ang ganda mo naman miss" sabi niya and I
chuckled. "Wow, hope everyone" I said and he continued on sipping on his
milkshake whilst I kept taking pictures of the waves.

Once I saw the sun beginning to set I laid my head on Andrew's shoulder and
linked my hands with his. He kissed the back of my hand and wrapped his
arm around my waist. 

"I love you so much" he said and I smiled. "I love you too darling"
. Chapter Eighteen

"Pato gising na!"

I lazily stood up and glared at my door. Kanina pa siya sigaw nang sigaw.
Nainis na ako. "Gising na oy! Kuya Seb, Oli ayaw pa niya gumising!" Xander
yelled and I forcefully got out of bed with my pillow not caring if my hair looked
like a nest.

I opened the door and threw the pillow at Xander. "Dios mio, may bruha!" I
glared at him and kicked his legs making him leap a bit . He glared at me and
I stuck my tongue out at him. "Stop it you two, Anli go get ready, Xander
tulungan mo kami sa baba" sabi ni kuya Oli at agad na kami kumilos.

We're going to my tita's house today but before that pupunta pa kami sa
bagong bahay namin at nilagay na ni mommy ang ibang gamit niya sa mga
kahon at luggage para e transfer sa bagong bahay namin without dad. Oo
may nahanap na kami na bahay at ready na siya. We've been transferring
some of our things there para ready na kami next year sa pag lipat nang
bahay once mom will announce the official separation.

Pumasok na ako sa cr ko at naligo. Then I changed into my wide legged pants

and cropped polo shirt. Sasama si Andrew sa pagpunta ngayon sa bahay ni
Tita Veronica, ako ang pupunta sakaniya at sasabay na kami papunta sa
bahay ni tita. I will go to his house pagkatapos namin mag transfer sa mga
gamit ni mama sa bahay. Dad isn't around all the time he usually comes home
madaling araw na. I took my small purse and put on my Nike airforce 1 before
going out of my room.

"Good morning, babygirl" Gavin greeted and I gave him a big hug. "Kailan mo
sasabihin sakanila?" I whispered and he kissed my forehead. "Christmas" he
said aloud making Xander turn to us. "Anong christmas?" he asked and I
flicked his forehead. "Aray ko pato ka" he complained and I stuck my tongue
out at him. "None of your business dumbass" I said and ran to kuya Oli.
"Kuya si Xandy oh" pagsumbong ko at lumingon si kuya Oli kay Xander with a
raised eyebrow. "Anong ako? May itatanong lang ako kay Anli" sabi niya and I
shook my head and tugged on kuya Oli's sweater. "Wag kang maniwala sa
baboy na 'yan kuya, liar 'yan" I said earning a glare from Xander.

"Xander help mom upstairs, make sure not to be loud nasa guest room lang si
dad" kuya Oli instructed at agad naman kumilos si Xander pero pinagliitan pa
niya ako nang mata bago siya umalis. The boxes and luggages aren't here
anymore nasa car na siya.

"Thanks kuya" I smiled and he shrugged. "Ang init kuya nag sweater ka pa, di
ka ba na initan? Ano ka si Elsa?" dagdag ko and he just gave me a straight
face. Nag peace sign ako tsaka lumapit kay Gavin.

"At ngayon nandiyan kana~"

"Tumahimik ka Gav" I complained and he rolled his eyes on me and continued

singing but kuya Seb changed the music making Xander and I snicker at him
which made him glare at us. Andito kami sa car ngayon papunta na kami sa
bahay namin and this is going to be my first time seeing the house because I
would usually stay at home or at Rina's house or with Andrew kapag pupunta
sila sa bahay same with Gavin kasi usually kasama ni Gav si kuya Vince.

As soon as we arrived I immediately helped by lifting light boxes and hurridly

placing them in the house. It looked amazing at tsakang nakinig talaga si
mommy sa design na sinasabi ko. I can't wait to fully move in here.

I continued to look around and here I am sa balcony. I closed my eyes and felt
the wind calming me. "Ano 'yan? Titanic? Ano, kailangan kita hawakan sa
bewang mo?". Kainis. I know this voice too well. "Shut up Xandy, kainis ka" I
complained and passed by him after hearing him laugh. Natutuwa pa ang
chaka. 

"Hoy di pa ako tapos sa ginawa mo kanina!" he said and I  turned around to

see him grinning down at me. I widen my eyes and quickly ran away from
Xander. Kaso mukhang nahabol niya ako so I took a turn around the wall and
ran downstairs.

Buti di ako nahulog. I ran for the living room to search for any of my brothers
sadly they're not here. At mukhang hinahanap ako ni Xander ang kapal lang
nang mukha ganon talaga ako ka liit? Ha? Ay giatay nakatago pala ako sa
likod nang book shelf kaya pala di niya ako makita bobo si me.

Wait this is my chance to get away from him. I slowly walked on the other side
and ran for the dining room. Sana nandito na ang mga kuya ko atleast one of
them lang. Mabuti pa nga kung andito si mommy.

"Anli!" 

Uy boses 'yan ni kuya Seb. I turned around and saw kuya Seb standing near
the stairs looking at me with his eyebrows furrowed his expression asking me
why I ran.

"Kuya! Tulungan mo 'ko a chaka doll is chasing me at sobrang pangit niya

kuya" I whined clinging onto my kuya's search. "Chaka doll? Are you
hallucinating? This is not a haunted house Anli" he reassured with a bit of
nervousness in his voice.

I blinked and looked at my kuya for a second. Niliteral niya ang sinabi ko.
Stressed na siguro- ay hindi.

"Sorry kuya, nakalimutan ko takot ka pala sa mga ghosts and all that scary
things a child would be scared of" 

Oh ba't niya ako inirapan. Totoo namang takot siya sa ganon. Kami lang
naman nandito ah? Nahihiya pa sa fear niya. Crazy.

"Wassup sis" tawag ni Xander habang naglakad papalapit sa'min. "Ayan kuya
oh, si Xandy ang tinutukoy ko niliteral mo naman" tawa ko at inirapan
nanaman ako ni kuya.
"Bakit?"

"Eh kasi Xandy, sabi ko tulungan niya ako kasi may chaka doll nakasunod
sa'kin but then niliteral ni kuya Seb ang sinabi ko, nakakatakot ka siguro
Xandy kaya niliteral ni kuya Seb" I laughed until I hands grabbing my arms.

Shit. Pinagtulungan nila ako. Sana pala hindi nalang ako nambibiro kay kuya
Seb. Anong gagawin nang mga unggoy na'to sa'kin?

"Hoy kayo ha, I'm still too young to die, kuya Oli! Gavin! Tulungan niyo ako!
May unggoy at chaka doll!"

"Chaka doll pala ha"

"Unggoy pala ha"

Bwiset. Bwiset. Bwiset talaga ang mga kapatid ko. Yari sila sa'kin pag dating
sa bahay ni tita. Yari talaga sila mga bwiset.

"Anli what happened to you?" mom asked and I just put on a blank
expression. "They threw me sa pool mommy, ano na ang susuotin ko
ngayon? Basa na ako bwiset"

"Go change nalang upstairs baby, may damit ka naman siguro na ma wear
mo today" tumango nalang ako tsaka naglakad papunta sa kwarto ko sa taas.

Di ko pa nakita si Xander at kuya Seb. Iniwan lang nila ako pagkatapos nila
mag tawanan at kumuha nang mga litrato. Urgh. Hinanda ko pa naman ang
susuotin ko ngayon. Sure ako nasa balcony sila or sa mga kwarto nila. If not
nasa game room or sa movie room or the gym. Baka nandoon.

Hay what to wear. I'll unpack all these boxes nalang once everything has been
transffered. Oh I know. Buti nalang nandito 'to puro pajamas, jewelries and
bags kasi ang dinala ko for today. I went to the bathroom and changed.
Agh! Basa pa ang buhok ko. Buti nalang di nakalagay ang cellphone ko sa
pocket nang jeans I'll surely become a scary dragon once my phone gets
damaged because of their kalokohan. I'm sure mommy has a blow dryer. I'll
borrow it nalang.

"Mommy pahiram blow dryer!"

"Sure anak, nasa first drawer sa cr"

"Thanks mom!"

After drying my hair I went back sa balcony para kunin ang bag ko and kuya
Oli was there in the phone with someone. I took out my phone and saw three
missed calls from Andrew and two messages from him.

Babe,

Ready na ako babe

Babe,

Ba't di mo ako sinagot?

Oh no, I hope he's not mad at me. 15 minutes ago pa ang messages and I
guess my phone rang earlier when I was still drying my hair. Ba't di binigay ni
kuya Oli sa'kin ang phone ko? Since he's here? Naka silent ba 'to oh he called
again.

"Hello babe?"

[ Ba't ngayon mo lang nasagot ang tawag ko? ]

I took my bag and walked downstairs to not interrupt kuya Oli with his call
before answering Andrew.
"I'm so sorry gumawa nang kalokohan ang dalawa kong kapatid which made
me wet so I had to change"

[  They what? ]

"They threw me sa pool so I had to change, sorry for not answering your call!"

[  Okay lang, kailan ka pupunta dito? ]

"Uhm, I'll ask mommy muna kung kailan sila aalis, I'll text you nalang"

[ Sige maghintay ako sa'yo, I love you! ]

"I love you too, byee"

"Yuck"

Tumingin ako sa gilid ko at nakita si Gavin nakatingin sa cellphone ko and I

scrunched my nose at him.

"Yuck yuck parang kayo ni-"

"Tumahimik ka demonyonita ka"

"Che whatever" I said rolling my eyes and walked towards the backyard sa
pool where mommy is. "Mommy kailan kayo aalis?"

"Bakit? Pupuntahan mo na jowa mo?"

I nodded my head and she smiled. "Ang laki na nang bunso ko, sige aalis na
kami ngayon pupuntahan mo na jowa mo"

"I love you mommy!" I smiled and kissed her cheek before leaving. Since si
Gavin lang ang nakita ko sakaniya lang ako nag paalam. And I sent a text to
kuya Oli para hindi siya mag alala. Di ko na e text si kuya Seb at Xander
naiinis pa ako sakanila.
I walked out of the gate and went to call a taxi to Andrew's house. Nag text na
rin ako kay Andrew na papunta na ako sa bahay niya. I knew the location of
his house because he took me there thrice at na meet ko na ang family niya
na sobrang bait.

"Ang ganda nang girlfriend ko" I pursed my lips and slightly pushed Andrew's
arm away. "Wag ganyan kinikilig ako" I said and he laughed at my remark.

"Siraulo, tara na sa sasakyan baka magkasakit ka ang init pa naman at wala

ka pang dala na payong"

"Ay ang sweet nang jowa ko pakiss nga" I said puckering my lips and he gave
me a peck before grabbing my hand and pulling me towards his car.

Ako ang mag guide sakanya papunta sa bahay ni Tita since ako lang naman
ang alam kung saan siya nakatira. And it will be Tita Vi and  ate Mist's first
time meeting Andrew including my pamangkin Nathan tawag namin sakaniya
Nath.

"Play any music you want, Anli alam ko na bored kana"

"Wag kang magreklamo sa music taste ko ah"

He nodded his head as I happily connected my phone and played my spotify

playlist which is called everyday.

"Korean?" he asked nung tumunog ang 'I-land' ni IU. "Hindi babe, Japanese" I
said rolling my eyes. "Niloko mo ba ako?"

"Ikaw na ang bahala mag isip diyan" I smiled and I heard him chuckle. Pag
abot namin nakita ko na agad ang sasakyan ni kuya Seb huh so they arrived
first. I quickly walked inside the house and went into the living room Andrew
trailing behind me.

"Baby Nath!" I called with wide arms open and my pamangkin happily ran
towards me. "Tita Rose!"  I kissed his forehead and squeezed him tight. "Ouch
tita I can't breath na" reklamo niya and I quickly let go of him making my mom
and tita Vi laugh.

"Sorry baby, Tita Rose just missed you" I cooed and pinched his cheeks as he
holds on to my hand. Yumakap ako kay tita tapos kay ate Mist. "Kamusta ka
naman Anli?" Mist asked and I smiled and ushered Andrew to come closer.
"May jowa na 'yan ate Mist" Gavin butted in at inirapan ko siya.

"Oh? At sigurado ka ba na hindi mo saktan ang baby pinsan ko?" aniya.

Tumawa lang si Andrew kay ate Mist while I stand there beside him starting to
sweat. Ayoko talaga makita na magalit si ate Mist. Because when she
threatens you and you don't back down? She'll fulfill that threat until you beg
her stop. She's a scary woman at sure ako mag mana si Nathan sakaniya.

"Don't worry Mrs. but I won't hurt Anli I promise I'll never leave her she's the
love of my life" Andrew said glancing at me and I looked away saka na ako
napalingon sakanila nung narinig ko ang scoff ni ate Mist. "Don't make
promises you can't keep mister. Wag mo nang dagdagan ang sakit sa puso
niya, don't stay in a relationship if you don't love that someone anymore" 

"Mist" tita Vi warned and ate Mist smirked and started walking away. Liningon
ko si Andrew na nakatulala lang sa gilid ko. What? Doesn't he love me?
"Magaling magsalita ang pinsan mo ah sumali ba siya sa isang public
speaking club noon?" he asked admiration filled in both his eyes at napatawa
ako. "Not really... it's one of her talents" I smiled at tumango si Andrew na
nakangiti.

"Tita Vi, alam mo may sinabi si mommy the other day pero pangalan ni Xandy
ang ginagamit niya" I said and faced my brother with a teasing smile. "Oh
really? Why man?" she asked at lumawak ang ngiti ko. "Eh tita ang weird part
do'n ay inistress ni mommy ang Alex at napaisip ako na merong history sa
pangalan na 'yan na si mommy at Xandy lang ang may alam at tungkol 'yan
kay Xandy" I explained and tita Vi went into her deep thinking posture.

Inirapan naman ako ni Xandy but I just grinned in return. Ha payback bitch.
"Maybe it's about a girl, is it about a girl Xander?" tita asked at agad umiling
ang kapatid ko. "Ayaw pa niya sabihin" Gavin butted in and I chuckled.
Kaming tatlo lang na kapatid ang nasa sala kasama si Andrew, tita Vi at
Nathan.

"In time he will reveal what it is about. Sa ngayon hindi pa siya handa sabihin
kung ano man iyon so let's respect that and wait for Xander to be ready. Okay
ba Anneliese?" tita said and I genuinely smiled and nodded my head. I
respect that naman gusto ko lang ako manginis because of what he did
kanina. Nabasa ako ha. Oh well kung sabi ni tita wait then we'll wait.

After awhile of us talking natira kami tatlo ni Andrew at Nathan sa sala

nanonood nang we bare bears sa tv I actually enjoy watching it as well di ko
lang alam kung gusto rin ni Andrew ang we bare bears or napilit lang siya but
I don't care haha joke.

"Okay ka lang Drew? Baka napilitan ka lang manood ha" lumingon siya sa'kin
hinawakan ang kamay ko. "Don't bother, I'm enjoying this" he reassured and
laid his head on my head kaya wala na akong magawa kundi manood din. 

"Tita I don't like your boyfriend" Nathan whispered and I giggled and
whispered back. "Why baby?" he glanced at Andrew na nanonood lang before
scooching closer to me. "He looks like a villain" okay di ko na mapigilan ang
tawa ko. 

"Bakit?" Andrew asked and I shook my head and turned back to Nathan and
gave him a hug. "He's fine as long as we love each other" I muttered but he
pulled a strand of my hair. "No tita, if he hurts you I will hunt him down and
feed him to my wolves" I sighed and nodded my haid before kissing his
forehead. "It's a big if baby, but that's normal when you're in a relationship so I
guess we just need to accept that hm?" he only yawned and began leaning on
me and I smiled and kissed the top of his head.

I guess if Andrew decides to break up with me one day then he's not my
forever after. People should be ready for these when going into a
relationship... but I guess I can't judge because getting your heart broken is
painful. 
Chapter Nineteen

Yesterday flew by so fast. Monday na ngayon and I know kailangan ko na

gagawin ang essays ko. Nagawa ko naman half of it. Dalawa nalang ang
natira. May training pa ako later with kuya Danny. Oh I just realized. Another
day of ignorance between Percy and I

Di talaga ako sanay na hindi kami mag usap. Is this a huge fight na for him?
For the both of us? Alam ko nasaktan din siya sa sinabi ko noon and I admit
that I regret saying that to him pero di ko talaga mapigilan. I really miss
Percy's companion. At miss na siya ni Xander. Ayaw kasi ni Xandy makipag
usap sa mga tao na kaaway ko o sa mga tao na may galit sa'kin or may galit
ako sakanila.

Ganyan si Xandy and most of my siblings as well. And I guess I should try and
approach Percy today para hindi na ma trouble si Xandy and I really miss his
companion and him annoying me. Besides from that miss ko na pala si
Nathan. We only got time to hang out yesterday. Sad. Baka isama ko si Percy
kapag nakipagbati na kami papunta sa bahay ni ate Mist or sa bahay nina tita
Vi. 

Hala malapit na ako ma late. Ba't ba kasi nang iwan ang mga kapatid ko. Is
Xandy still annoyed of what I did yesterday? Kung isapak ko nalang siya? Di
pa rin ako natuwa sa ginawa nila sa'kin kahapon. Buti nalang may damit ako
na ma wear kapag wala na I will surely turn into a scary mad dragon.

"Anli!"

"Good morning Rina"  

Ngumiti ang kaibigan ko and linked arms with me. Kumaway si Aly sa tabi ko
at ngumiti naman ako sakanya bago kami naglakad papunta sa gym. May
announcement daw si Dean. Buti nalang may announcement si dean Cuervo
kundi mapagalitan ako.
"Good morning students of Lunar Highschool as your Dean I will take full
responsibility of each and every one of my students and this announcement
will be a big risk for each one of you but according to the council every school
chosen by them must join" 

Mukhang nervous si dean which means this is a very serious matter at totoo
na mapunta kami sa panganib. Kakarating ko lang may announcement na si
dean na ganito. It must be the higher council who chose our school kasi
mukhang di mapilitan ni dean ang mga ito. 

"Dito kayo girls"  I almost tripped when Rina pulled me forcefully towards
Noah and Percy's direction. Sa'n kaya si Andrew ngayon? And Xandy... he left
me kanina heartless pig. Rina greeted the boys with a cheery smile and Aly
just greeted them politely. Ako naman naka tayo lang doon. 

Bwesit talaga ang dalawang 'to umupo na nang walang sabi at kinuha pa
talaga nang isa ang vacant seat na ma upo ko. Ang isa sa tabi ni Noah which
Rina occupied and the other nasa tabi ni Percy which Aly occupied and now
the only vacant seat left ay nasa gitna ni Noah at Percy. Great. Just
fantastically great.

"Kamusta ka Anli? Tagal na nating hindi nagkita ah, ganda mo pa rin" Noah
said winking at the last bit which I respond with a chuckle. "May jowa na ako
Noah and you know that but I'm doing well what about you?" ngumiti siya
saka tumingin sa likuran ko bago sa'kin. He moved closer before whispering.

"Gwapo pa rin"  I sat there looking at Noah with a blank face and Rina
laughed and slapped Noah's shoulder. "Gwapo ka lang sa panaginip mo" Rina
said and Noah rolled his eyes at her making me chuckle. "Ikaw ganda ka?"
Rina flipped her hair and raised one eyebrow at Noah with her arms crossed
and said. "Mas maganda pa ako ni Criezha"  and that everyone agreed on.

"May I call on all your attention Lunarians" 

Tumigil kami sa paguusap at tumingin kay dean Cuervo at ang iba pang
higher school staffs na nasa stage nang gym ngayon. But even though my
eyes are focused on dean Cuervo I could not help but feel uneasiness when I
felt a pair of eyes staring at the back of my head. Buti nalang nagsalita na si
dean para sakanya na ako mag focus and hopefully this person will too.

"We will be joining the adrenaline games, limang paaralan ang sasali sa laro
na'to which is us the Lunar Highschool, Quartz Highschool, Elion Highschool,
Roberttson Highschool and Realeza Highschool. Unfortunately the council
has chosen us to participate in the Adrenaline Games but don't worry there
will be chosen students who will represent our school but this still leaves me
worried upon the safeties of the students who will be chosen" 

What's the Adrenaline Games about and how is it unfortunate for us to be

participating in it. Nag alala pa nga si dean sa kaligtasan namin. But it's just
some game right? Wala namang masama doon. Laro lang 'to hindi patayan.

"Adrenaline Games, ngayon ko lang narinig ang laro na 'yan" Noah said "ako
rin" I said nodding my head in agreement. Magtanong na sana si Rina pero
may nagtaas nang kamay sa kabilang row at ito ang napansin ni dean.

"Dean bakit po unfortunate para sa'tin?" 

"Well Ms. Venilla it is unfortunate for us and any other schools because the
adrenaline games isn't any ordinary games. It is called adrenaline games for a
reason and your lives might be at risk. The adrenaline games is a game with
different levels that groups of students representing from the five chosen
schools must compete in and there are different activities that can surely bring
that adrenaline rush in you and you will all soon find out once the game
starts" 

"Dean, kailan po kayo pipili nang representatives?"

"The adrenaline game will start next month so we need to look for
representatives starting today that's why classes are on hold today. There will
be different tasks all of you need to do and we will be evaluating your skills.
Ang sasali grade 9, 10 and 11 only. The grade 12 students will be the ones
guiding you today, that is all please slowly head out of the gym and find your
advisers" 

Wow that was it? Gusto ko pa malaman kung ano tungkol ang adrenaline
games. Bakit siya nabuo at ano ano ang mga laro na gagawin namin dahilan
kung bakit nag alala si dean. I want to know. Aish.

"Anneliese" 

I shook my head and looked at my side to see Percy and the rest waiting for
me. Nakatayo na silang lahat at ako lang ang nakaupo nakatingin sa stage
kung nasaan si dean kanina. 

"Nakinig ka ba sa announcement ni dean kanina? Mukhang nakatulala ka

lang the whole time" Rina said and I pushed her aside slowly. "Di kaya,
nakinig ako na curious nga lang ako" 

"Weh" I pout my lips as she crossed her arms at me. "Totoo nga ano ka ba" 

"Tao Anli" she said and I pushed her aside again as she laughed at my
annoyed expression. "Tara na nga baka mapagalitan tayo, uy wag kang mag
pout ang cute mo" Noah said ruffling my hair and I replied a "Tsk" at him and
linked arms with Aly.

Paglabas namin sa gym nakita ko na diretso ang adviser namin kaya nag
hiwalay na kami nina Rina at nagpunta sa section ko. Kasama ko si Percy of
course, classmates nga kami. 

"Okay class may gagawin tayo and alam ko na unusual ang mga ito but this is
required to be a representative"

I wonder kung saan si Xandy at Andrew ngayon. Namiss ko sila bigla.

"The first thing that each of you must do is archery and we will be doing that
here sa field nakahanda na lahat nang mga materials para sa inyo so let's
start alphabetically girl boy girl boy" 
Archery? I love archery! So may archery sa adrenaline games? Yes! Kaso
matagal pa ako kasi V ang nauna sa surname ko. Bummer. But I guess I can
warm up muna. 

"What are you doing princess?"  I looked up from stretching and glared at the
person before me. "Warm up, hindi princess ang pangalan ko Anneliese
okay?" he chuckled and offered his hand to me which I willingly took kasi
kailangan ko nang tumayo. Kaya ko naman tumayo mag isa pero ayoko lang
siya mapahiya besides he did not do anything tormenting to me to ignore his
kind acts.

I kept waiting for my turn habang nakatayo or nakaupo at uminom lang ako
nang tubig o kumain nang biscuits habang nakatingin sa mga kaklase ko nag
archery. Gusto ko na mag archery. Pwede na bang ako na? 
Chapter Twenty

Masaya na sana ako na ako na pero di talaga ako masaya sa dalawang

kasama ko. Kailangan talaga na sila? Annoying. Kaprin and Lamuerte tapos
Veloso... ah! Bahala na.

"Princess, what if my arrow suddenly shoots in a different direction?" I glared

at Markus and aimed my arrow at him which made him step back startled by
my sudden action. "Isa pang princess sayo tatama ang palaso ko" I
threatened and I saw him gulped.

"Ibaba mo nga 'yan. A-anli na ang tawag ko s-sayo" he stuttered and I smiled
sweetly at him before placing down my bow and arrow. "What a beast, beast
nalang ang tawag ko sa'yo payag ka?" he asked and I glared at him to which
he shrugs. "Anli it is" he said snapping his fingers.

Now we are in our positions because we will be evaluated by the staffs

assigned for evaluating archery. I looked at my left to see Percy already in his
stance ready to aim at the target. I looked at my left and saw Markus still
getting ready. I took a deep breath in and focused on the where my arrow
would land.

"Kaprin 76 points, Veloso 98 points, Lamuerte 94 points"

Wow. Kami lang ata ang may mataas na points. I think you'll get something
great when you enjoy something you love to do. And I love archery... ever
since I was a child.

Next is something that we never expected. Gun shooting. Dito pa rin sa field
namin gagawin. At ang alam ko lang ay kung paano mag lagay nang bullets
sa gun at paano siya hawakan. But I guess I'll aim how I aim sa archery their
similar lang man. Same staffs pa rin ang mag evaluate sa amin and I am
slightly nervous with this one but I think I'll be able to enjoy it. Lunch naman
talaga ang next after this and I'm excited to eat.
Okay, here we go. Deep breath in and focus... but enjoy. It doesn't matter
naman kung ano ang score ko as long as I experienced and I enjoyed it.

"Kaprin 96 points, Veloso 90 points, Lamuerte 100 points"

I guess these two are experts at it. Lalo na si Percy they can say that I'm
impressed. And finally lunch!

"Kamusta scores niyo sa Archery at Gun shooting?" Noah asked as we sat

down on our table while Rina and Percy get our food. "65 ako sa Archery at
59 sa gun shooting" Aly replied and I gave her a smile while Noah nods at her.
"I got 98 for Archery si Percy 94 and sa gun shooting I got 90 while Percy got
100" I said with a proud smile.

"Woah, ang galing niyo ah mag best friend nga" he said and I let out an
awkward laugh and sighed. Averting my gaze elsewhere as the two of them
guess about the next activities.

Magaling pa rin si Anli sa Archery as expected. She really loves archery since
she was a little kid. Palaging archery nalang ang usapan namin. And I am
impressed when she got a high score for gun shooting considering she never
tried it before. Kamusta na kaya ang babaeng 'yon ngayon?

She is very good at masking her real emotions. She bottles things up. Kung
meron mag tanong sakanya kung okay siya she will lie by saying she is fine
pero sa totoo hindi. That silly girl always smiling all throughout the day parang
wala siyang lungkot naramdaman.

"Percy, mag bati na kayo ni Anli. Halata naman na miss niyo na ang isa't isa"
Rina said with a teasing smile and I rolled my eyes at her. Mag biro pa talaga
siya nang ganiyan sa'kin. "When time comes our friendship will mend and we
will reunite" she scoffed and went forward in line.
I looked at a different direction and saw a familiar figure with someone else.
"Rina, diba si Andrew 'yon?" Rina looked at the direction I was looking and
widen her eyes slapping my arm in the process. Okay lang di naman masakit.
Sigh. "Oo! Puta ba't naka hawak siya sa bewang ng babae na 'yan?" my eyes
trailed on his hand and my blood started to boil.

"Ikaw na muna mag order babalik lang ako" I said with a cold tone at agad
naman tumango si Rina sa sinabi ko. I cracked my neck and followed Andrew
to wherever he's heading to. Kung malaman ko talaga na nakipag landi ka sa
ibang babae whilst being in a relationship with Anli huh I'll really tear his face
off.

"Andrew, kailan ka ba makipag break sa puta na 'yon?" I heard Andrew

chuckle and saw him kiss the girl's hand. "Don't worry Anastasia, kapag
nakuha ko na ang impormasyon tungkol sa pamilya nila I'll surely break up
with her"

That piece of shit. Click. "Hm, I guess you'll be dead meat once the Veloso
siblings sees this and hears the conversation you had just now" tumingin sila
sa'kin at halatang takot ang babae sa narinig niya but Andrew remained
unfazed.

"Oh really? Kanino ba magtiwala si Anneliese her lover or... her sorry of an
excuse ex best friend?" I smirked and walked closer to Cordova. "You're really
testing my patience Mr. Cordova but remember this.. You will reap what you
sow, adios" and with that I left the both of them anger still raging inside of me
but for Anli I must control my anger.

Nasaan ba ngayon si Xander? "Excuse me, alam niyo ba kung saan si

Alexander Veloso?" 

"Nasa meeting po" tumango ako at naglakad papaalis. Malapit na ba silang

matapos? I have to tell him this. And it is urgent. 

"Uy teka lang di ka po pwede mag interrupt" I ignored what he said and
opened the door which lead to the meeting room for the campus officers.
"Xander, may I have a moment? This is important" I said aloud as everyone
stared at me. 

"I'm sorry but who are you? Alam mo ba na bawal mag interrupt ng meeting.
Gusto mo bang maparusahan?" Alexa the campus treasurer said but I paid no
attention on her and fixed my eyes on Xander who's looking at me with a
raised eyebrow. 

"Is that more important than this meeting?"  I breathed in and showed him my
phone. "It involves Anneliese" after hearing his sister's name agad na siyang
lumabas sa meeting room. 

"Alexander what do you think you're doing"

By mentioning the name of their sister it will always be something more

important to them. They'll drop everything that they'll do because Anneliese
Isis Rosette is very important to them. Hurt her you'll be facing four beasts. 

Xander and I stopped at a corner and he impatiently shifted his weight. "Spill"
I sighed and showed him the video of what happened awhile ago. "That son of
a bitch!"  he cursed and I hid my phone back in my pocket.

"Totoo ba 'to or you framed it?"  I scoffed and moved forward meeting his
angry eyes. "Sa tingin mo magawa ko 'yun?" and now he scoffed at me and
punched the wall beside me. This jerk. "Sinaktan mo siya diba?! Di nga kayo
nagusap!" 

I took a deep breath in and clenched my fists before answering. "Sinabi ko

lang sakanya na walang kwenta ang lalaking 'yon! Na masaktan lang siya sa
huli, I even confessed my love to her! But guess what?! Ayaw niyang
makinig!" I closed my eyes shut and turned around placing my fist on the wall. 

Sabi ko nga. Sinabi ko na sakanya na masaktan lang siya and she threatened
me by ending our friendship. Mahal daw nila ang isa't isa, ha! Mahal mo lang
siya pero di ka niya mahal. When will you see through him Anli.
"Don't tell Anli about this yet" I opened my eyes and turned around to see
Xander calm and poise. "Kung sabihin mo 'to sakanya ngayon it will only
seem like you want to ruin their relationship. Kilala natin siya Percy pero di
natin kilala si Cordova" 

Tama siya. As expected from a Veloso they're right because they experienced
and learned but they're not always right. "I've got documents from Andrew's
misdemeanors and he isn't what Anli think he is" Xander lifted an eyebrow at
me and I smirked. "I had a gut feeling that he will hurt her and so during these
past few days... I've done my research" 

He smiled and crossed his arms before clicking his tongue and smirked.
"Lawyer ka nga" 

Look at those pretty trees dancing with the wind. The scent of the flowers
bring calmness to ones self. Natuwa talaga sa school namin kasi pinili talaga
nila ang bulaklak na merong strong scent. Abot pa nga dito ang scent nila and
it too calms me down.

"Ang shaky nito ayusin mo nga" 

"Paano ko aayusin eh ang likot likot mo?"

"Edi sundan mo 'ko ano bayan zero nalang kaya tayo sa pt?"

Hm... maybe I can help. Mukhang kailangan sila ng tulong and at pt pa nila. I
should help the urge to help inside me can't be ignored. Malulungkot ako
kapag hindi ko sila matulungan knowing pwede ko sila matulungan at nakita
ko sila so I should.

"Excuse me can I help?" I asked and the group looked at me a bit surprised.
"Nako ate wag na kaya na namin 'to hehe" the girl with red ribbon clips said
and I shook my head. "Nope, I saw you guys are having trouble so I came to
help, Anneliese nga pala" I smiled and they smiled back. "Alam po namin
kung sino ka" the brunette boy slowly said and I smiled.

Oo nga pala. Sinabi na ni Criezha na leader ako ng isis, palpak ako, sinampal
ako ni mommy etc. sa buong campus how would they not know? I sighed and
began shooting their video. 

"Salamat ate! Ang ganda ng mga kuha mo" I smiled and nod my head at
them. "I only shot a few kayo talaga ang may magandang kuha you just need
to trust yourself and the process" I waved goodbye and began walking back to
the area kung saan ang mga kaklase ko but I suddenly bumped into
someone.

"Ouch" 

"Tumingin ka nga sa dinaanan mo" doesn't this voice belong to... Arman?

I looked up and saw Arman glaring at me but as soon as our eyes met his
face softened into a grin. He scoffed and walked closer to me his hands in his
pockets. 

"Ang tagal na nating hindi nagkita ah kamusta ka na kaya?" he mockingly said

and I kept a blank expression on as I slowly step backwards. "Kamusta ka
na... leader ng IS..IS" he laughed and I scoffed which made him look at me
with a stern expression. 

That's right jerk be mad at me waste your precious time be the jerk that you
are. Hurting others with your hurtful words. "May lakas ka na ah" he said and
pushed me aside but I refused to move. He glared at me and was about to
slap me when I stepped aside and walked forward. 

"What do you benefit by hurting others Arman? Satisfaction? Tsk"  I turned

around and saw Arman already facing me with an angry expression. "Sinasabi
mo? Akala mo kaya mo ko?!"  I shrugged and placed one hand in the pocket
of my blazer. "You ruin your life by ruining others" 
I made a salute sign with my two fingers and turned around to walk into a
different direction but as I was walking towards the field I saw a figure at the
side watching me. He has cold eyes and a cold expression on beside him is
another student holding a phone and blabbering something but he doesn't
seem to listen to him. I ignored him and continued walking.

Who was he and why was he staring at me? Did I do something wrong? No I
didn't I was telling the truth and I didn't even do anything with a physical
reaction. Is he one of Arman's friends? Tss maybe. Oh! I defended myself for
the first time! From a bully. Ahhhh I'm so proud of myself.

Woaah I really can defend myself. Ha! You see Anli all it takes is courage
and- ouch!

"Why do I keep bumping into- Percy?" Oh no oh no I just bumped into Percy

and he has a serious expression on oh no he must be pissed. "Uh... hehe
sorry ah doon lang ako sa field" I excused and started walking fast towards
the field.

"Anneliese" Oh no... "Yes..?" Rina huhu saan ka pwede mo ba akong

tulungan. He walked closer to me with the same serious expression on. I shut
my eyes but only to hear a chuckle. I opened my eyes to see Percy smiling at
me. "Di ka galit?" I asked and he scoffed and gave me a hug. 

"I saw what you did and I am very proud of you" I smiled and hugged him
back. "I missed you Perc" he chuckled and caressed my head. "I missed you
too Anli" 
Chapter Twenty-One.

"Alexander are you out of your mind? How can you walk out of a meeting like
that" Instead of facing her I walked past her and sat down on my spot the
documents in my hand. "As if naman ikakamatay ko 'yan" I said and the
others snickered but I ignored them and began opening the documents. 

"Nag aaway nanaman ang ating AA couple" Joshua teased but it doesn't
bother me that's old news. "One word again and I will rip your mouth Joshua"
Alexa threatened but the others only laughed at her. 

"Uy ano 'yan bro?" Alistair asked peeking into my documents but I kept my
eyes fixed on every picture on every word in it. "Andrew Storm Black Cordova,
sino 'yan?" so he basically had a fling with these girls mga mayaman 'to ah.
They are daughters of wealthy business men, Lawyers and Doctors. He gave
them the same necklace he gave Anne. 

I flipped the next page and saw a familiar name. No way.. Fuck!

"So what were you up to these past few days?" I asked Percy as we were
waiting for our adviser to arrive. Nakaupo kami ngayon sa grass at andito na
ang ibang kaklase namin. "May ginawang research" he answered. Oh? Baka
sa ibang class or something secret. "And what would that research be about?"
I squinted my eyes as I asked at slightly siyang lumayo sa'kin.

"Something private sa team siya at wala ka na do'n" he said and I slowly nod.
Sige about sa team okay. "Anli" he chuckled and I raised both my eyebrows.
"May sinabi ba ako?" I asked and he shook his head laughing and I smiled.

"Oh buti nag bati na kayo" Markus said from behind me. I looked up at him
since Percy and I are seated sa grass. "Mhm buti nga ikaw di nangungulit
kanina" I smiled and he chuckled. "Sali ako" he said umiling na sana ako pero
nakaupo na siya sa tabi namin bago ako makapag react.

"Diba ikaw yung palaging kausap ni Anli?" Percy asked and Markus proudly
agreed. "Ako nga best friend na nga kami" he said and I snorted. "Mama mo
best friend" I said and he rolled his eyes at me and I pushed him slightly
making him laugh. 

"No one can take my spot duffus" I sighed and decided to look for someone I
know in the crowd as the two started bickering on who my best friend is. "Ako
na ngayon kasi iniwan mo siya bleh" hay nako these two so annoying. "Nag
away lang kami di namin iniwan ang isa't isa, bobo ka ba?" Aish so noisy
pwede bang kaibigan ko nalang silang dalawa. Kaibigan ko naman talaga sila.

"Babe!" Andrew?. "Andrew!" I smiled and waved my arm in the air as Andrew
began running towards me. I stood up and enveloped him in a hug and he
kissed my cheek and lips before breaking the hug. "Di kita nakita the whole
morning" I said and he chuckled and ruffled my hair.

"Di mo ba alam na ayaw ni Anli magulo ang buhok niya" Percy said and
Andrew raised his eyebrow at him. Not again. "Uh hehe, it's okay. Wag mo
nalang gawin next time" I nervously smiled and Andrew smiled down at me. "I
see you two are friends again, that's good. But if someone were to say
something wrong about someone you loved did something wrong would you
believe it?" he asked and to be honest I got taken aback by his question.

"Uhm... well that's a question I did not expect but Andrew I would not believe a
person without credible evidence" I said my eyebrows furrowed. He smiled at
the person behind me and I smiled at Percy as well before meeting Andrew's
eyes again.

"At kung meron nga siyang ebidensiya maniwala ka ba na ginawa 'yun ng

taong mahal ka?" he asked again and I took a deep breath in and let it all out.
"I'm sure it's framed and if you're talking about yourself well babe you're wrong
because I trust you and I love you. I know you won't do anything bad to me
because you promised you'd stay by my side" 
Andrew smiled and gave me another hug and a kiss on my head. "Thanks
babe, I love you" he said and I smiled and tiptoed to kiss his cheek. "I got to
go now, kailangan ko pang tataposin ang poster ko para sa adrenaline
games, good luck guys" he waved goodbye and left.

I sat back down and Markus looked at me with a knowing look and I just
shrugged. "Okay class alphabetically pa rin and this will be unusual pero
unusual naman talaga ang ibang ginawa niyo kanina. This afternoon you will
be in a group tatlo kayo pareho kanina and you will find  dummy students that
are tied around the campus you will be saving them before they die" .

Ano?! Alam ko na sino ang mga partner ko. Ang dalawang unggoy. "Get set,
ready...go!"  the others ran and Markus ran as well but Percy and I just
walked. "Anong ginawa niyo diyan? Come on!" Markus said and I grabbed his
arm before he can run off again.

"It's better to walk and search to conserve energy" I reasoned and he nod his
head agreeing with me. "Tama ka, so anong gagawin natin Princess?" he
asked and I pinched his arm making him yelp. "Sabi ko na nga wag mo kong
itawag na princess" I glared and he made a peace sign which made me roll
my eyes. "Princess psh mas bagay warrior princess" Percy smiled.

"Ay oo nga no?" 

"Hindi, sige subukan niyo lang"

"Fine" they synced and I smiled at them both. "Anyways, let's split up I'll stay
here sa labas, Percy sa loob ka ng campus and Markus sa loob ka rin" they
both nodded their head and started running inside the building. Kakasabi ko
lang na mag lakad lang bahala sila wala na silang lakas mamaya para iligtas
ang dummy. 

I walked behind the campus looking from each corner and nook. I looked at
the trees and the benches but there's no dummy. I looked at my other side
and saw Xandy and kuya Josh looking at me both of them are holding a
clipboard. Ha sila ang assigned sa activity nito and I am sure narito lang ang
dummy. I turned around and slowly walked backwards. 

Ouch. Ano 'to? An...arrow and...a bow wait. If this is here then the dummy
must be somewhere high up. I looked up and saw the dummy hanging from a
building para talaga siyang tao. So realistic. Okay isang try lang ang pwede
kong gawin dito so I should be careful. 

I started to aim and focus on the target before I slowly breathed out and let go
of my arrow it perfectly hit the rope and I immediately ran and caught the
dummy. Actually nahulog siya sa'kin pero okay lang kasi saved pa rin.
Dalawang dummy nalang ang natira. I quickly carried the dummy in my arms
and ran towards the field while struggling. Ang bigat ng dummy, help.

Pag dating ko sa field ako lang ang narito besides my adviser at mukhang
natuwa ang adviser ko na ako ang nauna. "Good job Ms. Veloso you are
skilled" he said at ngumiti lang ako sakaniya bago umupo. Kamusta na kaya
ang dalawa? 

"Anli tulooooooong" Markus yelled as he carried the dummy in his arms. Kaya
niya naman mag dala ng dummy so why is he asking for my help? Oh shit.
May nakasunod pala sakaniya na student. Isa 'to sa kaibigan ni Arman ah. 

I walked quickly towards Markus and stepped in front of him. Jerome threw a
punch but I stepped aside and held his arm and kicked his thigh while twisting
his arm backwards. "Foul 'yon ah" I said and let go of him. He quickly stood up
and was about to punch me again but Xander punched him on his face
making him fall back on the ground.

"Gago ka ah, kapatid ko 'yan mamatay ka sana" Xandy said. Siraulong

kapatid. "Wag kang magsabi ng ganiyan Xander" I warned but he glared at
me instead. Next Percy came walking towards our direction. 

"Walang ka struggle struggle ah, hope everyone" I teased and he chuckled.

Xander noticed our interaction and half smiled at me. "Buti nagkaayos na
kayo" he said and I smiled with my two thumbs up. Xandy ruffled my hair and I
glared at him for doing it.

Ngayon andito na lahat ng kakalase ko at ang iba may dalang dummy at ang
iba naman wala. I guess limited lang ang dummy's na nilagay sa campus.
Xander moved forward and cleared his throat at ang iba namang babae ay
tumitili. Ew. 

Inannounce na ni Xandy ang individual at group scores ng iba at ngayon kami

na. "Kaprin 98 Veloso 100 Lamuerte 98 group performance 100" BOOYA!
Malaking score. Ang iba ayaw talaga masali sa laro na'to pero ako gusto kasi
na curious ako kaya gusto kong sumali. 

Pagkatapos nila mag announce may bagong activity nanaman at sila Xandy
pa rin ang judge. At ang next activity ay gamotin ang sugat ng dummy which I
never knew na may sugat sila. And individually pa rin.

"Kaya mo 'yan Anli wag kang matakot" Percy reassured and I nod my head. I
took a deep breath in and positioned the needle with shaky hands. "Ah!
Ayoko, ayoko talaga sorry" I said lifting both my hands up in the air. Percy and
Markus sighed while I stood up and crossed my arms.

"Anne" Xandy called and gave me a stern look and I shook my head at him.
"Ayoko Xandy, parang totoong tao 'yan tapos needle pa ang gagamitin ko
aish di ko bahala kayo diyan" 

Basta may needle invovled ayoko gumawa nyan. Oo takot ako sa needles
bata pa nga lang ako palagi na akong tinutusok ng mga needle. Ayoko talaga
sakanila. Ni di ko nga kaya ipasok ang needle sa balat ng tao. It ain't for me. 

"Kaprin 96 Veloso sigh 0 Lamuerte 98" Xandy announced and I just shrugged
my shoulders. Paki ko. Zero nalang ang score ko kesa harapin ko ang
needle. 
Chapter Twenty-two.

Kailangan ko 'to e discuss kay mama. It can't be. Stupid bastard. "Alexander
sa'n ka pupunta?" Joshua asked. Huminto ako saglit at lumapit sakaniya.
"Pupuntahan ko si mama uuwi naman talaga ang iba after I'll just go ahead" I
smiled and he rolled his eyes. "Mag ingat ka dude" he said and I nod my head
and went inside my car and started driving to La Casa Cafe. 

La Casa cafe, huh, I've never been to that place in a long time now. Kung di
ko lang talaga nakita ang pangalan ng lalaking yun di ako pupunta sa cafe
na'to. A place where anyone else thinks is good and beautiful but for the ones
who live above. Huh parang niloloko lang sila sa mga may ari.

"Alexander welcome back hijo ang tagal mo nang hindi nagpunta here ah" my
mother greeted with a smile and I looked at the people who are happily eating
their pastries. I just nod my head and sat down at the farthest seat from the
others. "Would you want anything from the menu?".

"Frappe nalang ma" when the waiter heard what I want he immediately wrote
it down and went back to the counter. They know what I want since I've been
here a lot before. "Okay let me see" I sighed and pulled out the documents
and hand them over to her. Nag cellphone nalang ako habang nag babasa
siya sa mga documents na binigay ko.

"Hijo this is mostly about a guy named Andrew Storm Cordova anong
kasalanan ng lalaking 'to anak?" 

"He's currently in a relationship with my sister at si Percy talaga ang nagbigay

niyan sakin. He's too protective of her that he did a background check and
that's what he found. Nakita niya rin si Andrew na may kasamang babae and
he was talking about some sort of plan" I explained and I could see my
mother's gaze darken.

"Ah the messenger and information taker. So anak niya pala ang gumawa ng
mga 'to, tsk, such a deceitful man, at talagang idadamay pa niya ang anak ko"
my mom can be a scary woman and when it comes to us her children she
turns into that scary woman. "Anyways anak I am afraid you need to inform
your sister about this she has a pure and kind heart but she is also smart and
an observant I'm sure kapag binigay mo 'to sakanya di siya magulat because
she knows" 

"Alam niya si Alfredo?" I asked and my mom chuckled and shook her head.
"Minus that part, she doesn't know a thing about him and what he's done to
many families. Deceiving each every one and taking something precious from
those families... nadamay pa ako. But let's not talk about that and don't tell
your sister about Alfredo Cordova as well I guess he doesn't know na anak ko
kayo"

"Aalis na ako ma baka hinahanap na ako ni Anne at nila kuya" my mother

smiled at me and gave me a hug before kissing my cheek. Nakakahiya lang
kasi in front sa maraming tao sa cafe na'to at nag awe pa sila kainis. "Ingat
hijo anak, mama loves you" I smiled and waved goodbye before driving back
home. 

Pag dating ko sa bahay tahimik. Pero andito na lahat ng mga kapatid ko. Nag
aaral si kuya Seb sa living room at nandoon din si Gavin naka airpods at
nanonood ng school related videos. Si kuya Oli nasa kitchen nagluluto at
ngayon papunta na ako sa kwarto ni Anne para ibigay 'to sakanya.

Naalala ko ang mukha niya kanina na nag panic habang hawak ang injection.
Nakita ko pa na lumabas na ang medicine sa syringe na walang may alam.
She mindlessly pressed the medicine out at kausap niya si Percy nag rant na
ayaw niya talaga kasi di niya kaya.

At buti nalang na di niya ininsert ang needle sa balat ng dummy kasi wala
naman talagang lumabas kasi inubos niya. What a funny girl. Ayaw niya kasi
ng mga needles. She was already pale awhile ago. Ganyan siya kapag may
makita siyang needle at sakanya o siya ang hahawak. She's a clutz
sometimes and she knows that so she's afraid na baka mahulog niya ang
injection at sakanya tatama haha.

"Anne" I called and knocked on her door. 

Hm? Si Xandy yun? Nagbabasa ako ano ba kailangan niya iniwan pa nga
niya ako kanina sa school. "Yes?" I asked as I opened the door. "Papasok
ako" he said and went inside my room. Ang rude lang tsk ganito talaga ang
mga kapatid ko sakin. "Sige invite yourself inside my room" I said in an
annoyed tone but Xandy only rolled his eyes and sat down on my swivel chair
in front of my desk.

"What do you want Xandy?" I asked sitting down on my bed but he ignored
my question and asked me one. "Ano bang ginawa mo dito? Ang tahimik mo
ata?" I rolled my eyes and point my finger towards the book that's on my bed.
Kinuha niya ito at binasa ang title. "Codes and Ciphers?" 

"Oh bakit?" he returned the book to me and leaned forward placing his elbows
on his knees as he looks at me his chin resting on his intertwined hands. "Why
are you reading such book?" I crossed my legs and moved closer until both
our faces met.

"Bakit? Bawal ba Xandy?" he raised one eyebrow and leaned back on my

swivel chair as I made an indian pose on my bed. "Na curious lang ako diyan
kasi yung movie na pinanood ko may ganyan kaya tinry kong aralan" I
explained and he just shrugs. What an asshole. 

"Bakit ka nga nandito?" He sighed and showed me a big brown envelope

kanina ko pa tinitignan 'yan na curious ako. "This contains information about a
mean person at may possibility na masaktan ka" he cautiously said and I nod
my head my eyes fixed on the envelope. 

"Tss Anne makinig" he scolded so I looked at his eyes this time para
'makinig' . "When you happens don't get pissed don't get annoyed and don't
get mad because we performed this for your own safety and we have not
confronted this person yet, here" he finally handed me the envelope and I
slowly opened it to find papers.
Sasapakin ko talaga si Xander kapag blank papers ang naka lagay sa
envelope na'to. Oop nope it ain't blank papers...hm.. ano 'to.

I watch my sister as she opens and pulls out the documents. Nakita ko sa
mukha niya na akala niya binibiro ko lang siya. Sorry sis I would love to but
not know. I observed her reaction as she read each paper pero wala talagang
ka surprise surprise. Walang galit walang confusion wala talaga. 

Ang mukha niya ay parang alam na niya.. if so, tama si mama. Alam na talaga
ng kapatid ko ano ang ginawa ng jowa niya. "Here done reading it" she said
handing me the documents. "Alam ko na Xandy, I started suspecting him sa
isang buwan na hindi siya nag pakit sakin ang bobo nga lang niya
magpanggap na merong activity siyang ginawa na andon siya sa isang resort
na asan ako" she bitterly laughed.

"Isa pa, whenever he looks at me it seems like he's figuring something out. At
kapag kasama kami he's always asking unusual questions na parang may
hinahanap siyang information weird no? I even placed a tracker on his phone
at nakita ko messages niya and I printed them out. That stronzo" may halong
sakit ang mga salita niya bago niya binigay ang printed conversations sakin.

At andoon na nga lahat at confirmed na may hinahanap siyang information

para e report sakaniyang ama at si Anne daw ang alam kung ano ito at nasan
ito which is the sapphire key to mom and dad's treasures and other important
things. Based on what mom told me the key can open anything that belongs
to them at ito ang hinahanap ni Alfredo Cordova at Andrew Cordova. 

"Anne si Percy ang kumuha nito at may ibang ebidensiya pa siya it's the same
thing pero may kasama siyang babae sinundan lang ni Percy" I explained and
she nods her head and laid on her bed. "Paki sabi nila kuya na di ako mag
dinner... magpahinga lang" she said and I nod my head and stood up. "Oh
Xandy, I'll let Andrew continue on searching for his information I'll wait for the
right time to break up with him" I kissed my sister's forehead and walked out
of room. 
Di pa ako umalis narinig ko na ang iyak niya. I feel bad for my sister that she's
experiencing this and I feel very angry at Andrew for making her experience
this. Papatayin ko talaga ang lalaking 'yon ang kapal ng mukha niya para
manloko sa kapatid ko.

Ang sama niya talaga. Sinabihan niya akong mahal niya ako na hindi niya ako
iiwan pero niloloko lang niya ako! Nakita ko pa na nilalait niya ako sa mga
kaibigan niya. Walang hiya siya! Gago siya! I know everything he's done and it
hurts everyday na kailangan ko pa magpanggap na mahal ko siya na hindi ko
pa alam na niloloko niya lang ako.

But I have to because I want to prove to him na hindi niya ako maloloko na
hindi ako ang babae na nilalait niya sa mga kaibigan niya because I am more
than that. And fools like him deserve to be fooled back. Let's see how far you'll
go. You won't get what you want to get. 

You tried messing with a Veloso and now you'll taste the wrath of a Veloso. 
Chapter Twenty-three.

It's been weeks now at di pa nagparamdam si Andrew sakin. Some jowa I

have here. Manlokorist. Same pa rin ang ginawa namin this past few weeks at
ngayon na i-announce ni dean kung sino ang mga kasali sa adrenaline
games. Katabi ko ngayon si Percy, Rina, Noah, Markus at Aly sa gym. 

Si Xander nasa stage kasi president siya ng campus kasama niya rin ang
ibang officers. "Sino kaya ang masali?" Rina wondered and I joined her in her
wondering moment. "Sure ako na hindi makasali si Anli, zero pa nga sa pagpa
gamot ng dummy" Noah teased and I glared at him. Tumawa lang siya sakin
while Percy patted my head which made me glare at him as well.

"Attention students the campus president Alexander Knight Veloso will now
announce the participants" sabi ni Dean kaya nanahimik na kami para makinig
kang Xandy. Kinunan ko pa siya ng mga litrato at video haha papakita ko 'to
sakanya mamaya sa bahay.

"Good morning Lunarians"  Eh? Sabi nga lang ni Xandy good morning tumitili
na sila? Ano kaya ang nakita nila sa kapatid ko. Nakakdiri ew. "When your
name is called please come up on stage" Okay ito na. 

"Nathaniel Everest Pereira" sino 'yan? Ang ganda ng pangalan ah... wait isn't
that the guy who stared at me sa hallway? Omg siya nga same cold
expression oh. "Anneliese Isis Rosette Veloso" hoy ako 'yon!

I stood up and smiled at my friends I looked at Noah who mouthed 'himala' to

me and I respond an eyeroll to it. I walked down the steps and made eye
contact with Xander. As I walked up the steps I made eye contact with
Nathaniel as well but I quickly averted my gaze and stood next to him. Xander
looked back at me first before facing the crowd. 

"Aumetage Shay Gonzales" uy 'yan ang kasama ni Nathaniel last time. Yung
daldal ng daldal pero ang kaibigan niya naka tingin sakin, char ganda ka
ghorl? "Hello Anneliese I've heard a lot about you" sabi ng Aumetage and I
just awkwardly smiled. 
"Ako wala" I said and he looks taken aback but he chuckled afterwards.
"Pinag usapan nga ako ng marami tingin ka sa tamang direksyon para marinig
mo ang tungkol sakin" he winked and before I could reply biglang nagsalita sa
Xander samin. "Sinasabi mo sa kapatid ko Gonzales?" 

Aumetage behaved and I silently chuckled and looked forward waiting for the
next person to be called. "Madeline Ellaine Beaulieu" WHAT? No way! She's
supposed to be in France! Next next year pa siya dapat uuwi. No way it's her
it's really my best friend oh my gosh.

"Maddy!" I squeeled and she squeeled as well making the school officers and
Xander to shush us. "When did you enroll here?" I asked and she gave me
one of her mischevious smiles. "The day when my kuya enrolled" I was
supposed to reply but then Xander scolded us so Maddy needed to stay in her
spot. Kill joy brother.

"Percival Kai Lamuerte" Yay! Percy! "Ingatan mo kapatid ko" Xander told him
when Percy stepped on the stage. "Malamang" Percy replied and winked at
me and I rolled my eyes as my response.

"Last but not the least, Althea Sky Dominguez" Aly too? Wow. "These are the
students that will participate in the adrenaline games" 

"This will be your coach and guardian for three months it seems like niloloko
lang ako ng council na sa december na ang adrenaline games to immediately
pick out the participants and to not plot anything" Dean said. Andito kami sa
office ni dean kasama si Xander and kuya Josh who is the vice president. 

"Good morning to you fellow six, I am sir Beaumont and I will be with you for
three months training and taking care of each one of you there are two rules
that you must follow. One always work as a team. Two never give up I trust
that you six will follow them" 
I just kept nodding my head at hindi pa rin kami magkatabi ni Maddy kasi
kailangan daw pareho ang order sa gym. Ganito din siguro kapag mag
training kami. "You will all go home today and start packing because we will
be leaving tomorrow but for now sasabihin ko lang sa inyo bakit kayo pinili" sir
Beaumont said habang naglakad kami sa labas papunta sa field.

Kasama ko nga pala ang mga 'to for three months at hanggang matapos ang
laro. Ang sabi ni sir Beaumont ay pupunta kami sa isang lugar kung saan
puno siya ng mga halaman at may limang building para sa limang paaralan na
lalaban sa adrenaline games. Excited nga ako kasi makasama ko si Maddy sa
tatlong buwan at nandito pa si Percy at si Aly. 

Okay andito na kami sa field naka tayo at kaharap namin si sir Beaumont. "I
chose Mr. Nathaniel Pereira to be the leader he scored 2004 over 2005
despite his cold remarks, next I chose the youngest Veloso Ms. Anneliese,
you have proved that those rumors are wrong and despite having a score of 0
on the last activity I'm sure you remember that but you scored 2002 over
2005, Mr. Aumetage Gonzales same kayo ni Ms. Anneliese na zero sa isang
activity same activity rin ewan ko lang sa inyo but Mr. Aumetage you scored
2002 as well over 2005. Little Ms. Madeline Beaulieu you did great but your
social skills not so nag panic ka pa one activity but you are excused for that
dear you scored 2001 over 2005.

Mr. Percival Lamuerte you did great actually pero halatang occupied ka sa
mga iniisip mo so please prevent that from happening when the games start
because there is no time to think about other things you six need to survive
and to win survive to win be a team Mr. Percival you scored 2001 over 2005,
last but not the least Ms. Althea Dominguez you are a bit slow but you're really
focused and you work hard keep that up. You scored 2000 over 2005"

After sinabi ni sir Beaumont ang mga scores namin. Nag get to know each
other kami, naglaro din kami ng games na hinanda ni sir Beaumont. Masaya
naman kasi kasama ko ang mga kaibigan ko at naging kaibigan ko na agad si
Shay who is Aumetage. Nathaniel on the other hand... not so kasi tahimik lang
siya gaya ni Aly pero nagsasalita naman si Aly paminsan minsan. She's just
observing muna.
Chapter twenty-four.

Ngayon na. Aalis na kami. This is so exciting yet so terrifying. We will be at a

place we never know of ang higher officials lang ang may alam sa mga lugar
na pupuntahan namin. We don't know what's ahead of us. And to be honest
lang ha takot ako pero excited din. Kasi na curious ako sa larong ito.

"Anli baba ka na" tawag ni kuya Seb sakin at agad naman ako bumaba
habang dala ang suitcase ko. I'm wearing a black turtle neck shirt and light
blue wide legged pants with my black boots. "May sasabihin daw si mommy
satin" kuya Seb said and I nod my head and sat down with my brothers sa
living room.

Our mother stands in front of us with a nervous expression on her face.

Tinignan niya kami isa't isa bago ngumiti. "Lumaki kayo ng matapang, mabait,
mapagmahal at maunawain na tao at sana walang magbabago" kumunot ang
noo ko habang sa mama ko na may luha sa mga mata niya.

"Hindi ako ang tunay niyong ina" 

A gasp left my mouth as I stared at my mother whose tears started falling

down. "Mom, binibiro niyo ba kami?" Gavin chuckled as he asked but my
mother only gave him a sad smile. "Mahal na mahal ko kayo, tinatrato ko kayo
bilang mga anak ko pasensya na hindi ako ang tunay niyong ina at ang ama
niyo ay isang robot lamang na ginagawa ang trabaho niya" she cried and I just
sat there utterly speechless as I watched them.

"Mom, hindi 'to magandang biro" kuya Seb said with a cold voice pero umiyak
lang si mama ang mukha niya nakatago sa dalawang kamay niya. I felt
betrayed... and I hate betrayal. It hurts so much yet I gave no reaction but a
small gasp awhile ago.

"Totoo ang sinabi niya" seryosong sabi ni Xander - lahat kami nakatingin na
sakanya. "You know about this? When?" kuya Oli asked with gritted teeth.
"Simula nung araw na tumakbo si Anne palabas sa bahay bigla nalang na
collapse si dad at napansin ko ang wire sa likuran niya - likuran ng robot" 
No way. All this suffering.. all the pain.. is caused by a robot? I- 

"Anli where are you going?" Gavin asked but I ignored him and went inside
the guest room to see my father sleeping. I gulped and walked towards him
turning him around and pulled up his shirt revealing the square compartment
of wires.

No way. This is absurd! All that's happened? How-why?! 

I walked backwards and fell on my knees knocking the glass that's on the
table beside me. I can't think straight. I don't know what to do what to feel
what to think! 

"Anneliese!" I heard kuya Oli call but his voice seems far away. I could only
hear my heavy breaths. I could feel someone crouching down beside me
whispering comforting words in my ear and a person in front of me snapping
and waving their hand / fingers in my face but I remained the same.

I could not comprehend what just happened. The person who I thought is my
mother turned out to be a fake and the person who abused me is a robot... So
si.. Don't.

"Is Laurie a robot as well?" I finally asked and they relaxed and sighed in relief
at my response. "Hindi robot si Laurie yun ang alam ko sa sinabi ni mama
sakin" Xander spoke and I furrowed my eyebrows at him.. Mama? Sinong
mama? "Galit din ako nung nalaman ko ang ginawa ni tita Raya satin pero
nung nalaman ko na si lola ang nag utos sakanya nito napunta lahat ng galit
ko kay lola nameet ko na rin si mama at papa" He explained and I just
remained a blank expression.

When no one else spoke he continued explaining. Nagalit daw si lola kay
mama kasi nagmahal siya lalo na si ate Mist. Lola Freya thinks that if we fall in
love we would experience what she went through. She fell in love her heart so
kind and fragile. Pero niloko lang pala siya, she eventually gave him a chance
but then he started abusing lola Freya. Walang magawa si lola kasi mahina
siya. 
She blames herself everyday for giving the boy a chance when he cheated on
her with multiple girls already. Pinaranas niya sakin ang verbal abuse kasi
kailangan daw na matapang ako... she's right na naging matapang ako but
her way of discipline, caring and training is not right. Walang magawa si
mama at papa kasi tinakot sila ni lola na... kunin niya raw ang rights namin
bilang Kings at Veloso. 

My lola is the so called 'ruler' of a place named Ellesmere. Diyan nagpunta si

ate Mist. Pinapunta I mean she went there because of something she did
though alam ko naman na hindi magawa 'yun ni ate Mist...intentionally. But
that's about it. And it turns out sa na parte ang Ellesmere sa larong ito. I guess
I'll be able to face my lola Freya and confront her with every pain she has let
me through.

Papunta na kami ngayon sa train station at sana napag isa nalang ako.
Gagong Shay nakipagdaldalan pa wala pa nga akong tulog nilakasan pa niya
ang boses niya. Tanginang lalaki naging best friend ko pa. Sir Beaumont is
currently driving the van at nakaupo lang ako sa tabi ni Shay sa gilid niya
nakaupo si Madeline at si Anneliese. 

I glanced at Anneliese who has a sad face on. Kanina pa siya ganyan..
usually madaldal 'yan kay Madeline, Percival, Althea o kay Shay pero ngayon
tahimik siya malungkot pa ang mga mata. Ayaw niya man sabihin pero kitang
kita talaga ang emosyon sa dalawa niyang mata. May nangyari siguro bago
namin siya kinuha mula sa bahay nila.

Ang blooming mo ngayon ah" rinig kong sabi ni Shay at napalabas lang ako
ng malalim na hininga. I know what he's doing and I really am not up for any
of this.  "Stop it Shay" sabi ni Madeline sakanya. Hay in-acknowledge niya pa
this will be damned ride.

 "Bakit? Sinabihan ka nga lang na blooming ka ngayon may problema ba

dun?" tanong ni Shay at alam kong sinabi niya 'yon na may malawak na ngiti.
I've been with him for all my life that I know what his next move is or what his
next move will be.

 "Yes, I am  always blooming Shay. Not just today but everyday"  I almost
snorted when I heard Madeline say that. Sa lahat ng babae na linandian ni
Shay siya palang ang pinaka unang babae na magsabi ng ganyan sakanya
making Shay speechless on her remark.

Rinig kong tumawa si Percival at Althea at binalikan ni Madeline ang kanyang

tablet. "Yabang" maikling sabi ni Shay at ngumiti lang ako sa naging reaksyon
niya.

"K lang 'yan Shay" ngiting sabi ni Althea pero sinubukan niyang itago ang
tawa niya.

 "Blooming ka rin bro wag kang mag-alala" Tawang sabi ni Percival at tumawa
na ang dalawa sa kaibigan ko. Pero naging tahimik pa rin si Anneliese. Wala
siyang reaksyon wala siyang expresyon. Blanko lang talaga. 

Tumingin siya kila Percival bago sumandal kay Madeline at natulog. Matagal
ko na siyang ino-obserbahan. Na curious kasi ako sakanya, bakit gusto ng
mga tao na mangialam sa buhay ni Anneliese Veloso? Bakit mainit ang dugo
nina Criezha sakanya? Ano ba ang nasa kanya? 

Sa mga araw na ino-obserbahan ko siya I confirmed that the rumors that

Criezha and her friends like to spread aren't real. I know they aren't real as
well because rumors are just either unconfirmed facts or made up stories. I
can see that she's a strong woman. She is capable in defending herself but
chose not to because for her she believes she can't. 

She needs to start believing in herself more. She needs to see what I and
some see. She's a strong woman that - matutulog nalang ako.