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The Miserable Wife
by ChecheAnne
“Mahal ko ang asawa ko, kaya nga nagpapakatanga ako at nagbubulag-bulagang mahal
niya rin ako… kahit na alam kong hindi.”
=================
The Miserable Wife by Ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ Ⓐ ⓝ ⓝ ⓔ
~The Miserable Wife written by Ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ Ⓐ ⓝ ⓝ ⓔ~
"Mahal ko ang asawa ko, kaya nga nagpapakatanga ako at nagbubulag-bulagang mahal
niya rin ako... kahit na alam kong hindi."
Prologue:
Ang pag-aasawa ay hindi katulad ng kanin na isusubo mo... at kapag napaso ka,
iluluwa mo. Marriage binds two people who are in love with each other and ready to
face the eternal life together.
To love and to cherish...
In sickness and in health...
Until death they do as part...
Once I dreamed of it...
For once I dream to have a husband whom I'll share everything I had...
The one that will love me and will be faithful...
The one I can be with through good and bad times...
I think I found that one...
For once, I think I found that one...
But reality knocks... that "once" will never be for "life time".
I am Leila Chan-Sy. My friends called me Chan. Half Chinese. 18 years old. 8 years
of being tied in a marriage contract to the one I loved.
The moment I saw him since that day, I already said to myself...
"This guy is the one I am gonna share the half of my life"
Minahal ko siya ng sobra. Mas higit ko siyang mahal na kahit na pati ang sarili
kong buhay ibibgay ko sa kanya.
Ganun ko siya ka mahal
Even I am miserable living with him...
Even if it likes a hell to be with him...
I'll endure all those pain just to be with him...
'coz he's the one I loved...
He's my husband...
And I am his miserable wife...
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Anne's letter: Hello guys! New story I made. This is for everyone.
I hope you like it!
Thank you sa magbabasa! Kung meron man =______=
Enjoy reading!
God bless! :">
Copyright©2013 ChecheAnneStories. All Rights Reserved.

=================
Chapter 1:
Chapter 1:
Alas tres pa lang ng umaga gising na ko. Kailangan kong gumising ng maaga para sa
asawa ko. maaga pa lang naglinis na ako ng bahay. Nagluto ng almusal. Ihinanda ang
damit ng asawa at namalantsya. Eksaktong alas syete ng umaga nang Matapos ako.
Eksaktong alas syete na, at kailangan ko nang gisingin ang asawa ko.
“Honey, gising na. baka ma-late ka pa.” Sabi ko.
Umupo ako sa may kama kung saan siya nakahiga. Nakatalikod siya sa akin.
Hinawakan ko siya sa balikat. “Jed, gumising ka na. breakfast is ready.” Sabay

yugyog ko sa balikat niya.
“ANO BA!” sabay tabig sa kamay ko.
Muntik na akong mahulog sa kama. Ang lakas nang pagkakatbig niya sa akin.
Bumangon siya sa pagkakahiga habang hawak ang ulo niya.
Pihadong masakit ang ulo ng asawa ko. lasing siyang umuwi sa bahay kagabi, nakipag
inuman nanaman sa mga kaibigan niya.
“Diba sinabi ko nang wag mo kong iistorbohin habang natutulog ako??” galit na siya.
Natatakot ako. Ayokong nagagalit ang asawa ko sa akin kaya lahat ng gusto niya
sinusunod ko.
Natatakot akong magalit sa akin si Jed at iwan ako.
“pero--”
“Nakahanda na ba pagkain ko?” hindi niya ako pinatapos sa pagsasalita.
“Oo, nakahanda na yung almusal mo sa dining table... ihahanda ko na yung pampaligo

mo, kumain--.” Hindi na niya ako pinatapos sa pagsasalita.
Lumabas siya ng kuwarto.
*sigh*
Ang gusto ko lang naman... batiin niya ako ng ‘Good morning honey’ at halikan sa
pisngi at bigyan ng isang napakatamis na good morning smile.
Mahirap ba yun?
Agad kong ihinanda yung pampaligo niya.
Matapos kong gawin yun pininaw ko na yung mga nilabhan ko kahapon at titiklupin ko
na.
Nakabihis na si Jed. Ready na siya para pumasok.

“Mag ingat ka Jed” walang kibo o sagot si Jed.
Agad siyang lumabas ng bahay. Papasok na siya ngayon sa school. Ilang minuto na rin
susunod ako.
Kailangan ko munang tapusin lahat ng gawaing bahay dito.
Ayaw niya kasing sabay kaming pumapasok. Ayaw niyang pinagtitinginan kami na
magkasama.
Kahit na alam ng buong mundong mag-asawa kami.
Ang sakit sa part ko na ikinahihiya ako ng asawa ko. pakiramdam ko, hindi pa ako
sapat... ang daming insecurities na bumabagabat sa buo kong pagka-tao.
Ang sakit, ang sakit sakit na maramdaman kong hindi ako mahal ng asawa ko.
Pagkatapos ko sa lahat ng ginagawa ko, naligo na ako at nagbihis. Kailangan ko nang

pumasok.
Excited na ako kasi magkakasama na kami ni Jed sa iisang school.
Incoming first year college pa lang ako ngayon. Integrated school kasi ang
pinasukan ko kaya hanggang grade 7 ang taon na ginugol ko sa elementary. Si Jed
naman mas matanda sa akin ng tatlong taon. 3rd year college na siya ngayon.
Pareho kami ng course. Business Management. Gusto ko kasing kumuha ng course na
Kapareho niya. Suggested rin ng parents namin.
Papasok na ako sa classroom ko. pero gusto ko munang makita si Jed kaya Hinanap ko
muna yung room niya.
Nakakapanlula yung school. Ang daming tao, kilalang school kasi eto. Puro
mayayamang at kilalang pamilya ang nagaaral dito. Halata naman sa pangalan ng
school yung pagiging mayaman ng mga tao dito. Elite Academy.
Kanina pa ako lakad ng lakad pero hindi ko mahanap kung nasaan si Jed. Gustong-
gusto ko nang makita si Jed kahit na nagkita na kami kanina.
Sa sobrang busy ng mata ko sa kakahanap sa asawa ko hindi ko napansin yung mga

taong nasasagi ko. hanggang sa maka bangga ako ng di ko kilala.
Nahulog yung mga gamit ko. nagkalat sa sahig. Agad kong pinulot. Tinulungan naman
ako nung taong nakabangga ko.
“Naku! Sorry, hindi kita napansin... Pasensya na talaga!” sabi ko habang pinupulot
yung mga papel na nagkalat.
Nadinig ko siyang tumatawa. Napatigil tuloy ako at tuming sa kanya.

Namangha ako nung makita ko... ang gwapo naman ng lalaking nasa harapan ko.
Ang ganda ganda ng ngiti niya. Sana, ganyan din yung ngiti niya... sana ngitian din
ako ni Jed.
“Sorry miss. Ang cute mo kasi eh... masyado kang worried dahil sa mababaw na
dahilan.” Then he laughs again.
Hindi ko mapigilang mamula. Ngayon lang may nagsabi sa akin na cute ako... ngayon
lang may pumuri sa akin. Sana, purihin niya din ako... sana mapansin naman ako ni
Jed.
“Ah.. eh, sorry! Nasanay na akong humihingi ng tawad kapag nagkakamali ako!” sabi
ko.
Totoo naman eh, nasanay na akong humingi ng sorry... nasanay na akong humingi ng
sorry kay Jed kapag nakakagawa ako ng bagay na ikinagagalit niya sa akin.
“Don’t say sorry.” Sabay hawak sa balikat ko. “Everyone doesn’t mean it right?
Hindi mo naman sinasadya na mabangga ako eh, and besides eh kasalanan ko rin naman”
hindi nawawala sa mukha niya yung ngiti.
“Salamat” iniabot niya sa akin yung mga papel na nagkalat. “Here”
“Th-thank y-you.” nasabi ko.
Sabay kaming tumayo sa pagkakaupo namin. “See you around!” sabi niya sabay talikod
sa akin.
Sa unang pagkakataon... may pumuri sa akin... sa unang pagkakataon may kumausap sa

akin.
Kahit hindi ko alam ang pangalan niya, hinding hindi ko siya makakalimutan.
Sana, makita ko siya ulit.
Nagpatuloy ako sa paghahanap. I still have time to find my husband.
“Jed! I’m calling you last night but you haven’t answering any of my calls!”
Napatigil ako sa paglalakad. Nadinig ko kasi ang pangalan ng asawa ko.
Sinilip ko yung class room. nakita ko ang asawa ko... nakaupo sa may table, may
babaeng nakikipag usap sa kanya. Kung titingnan silang dalawa, ang sweet nilang
tingnan... parang may iba pang namamagitan sa kanilang dalawa.
Nagtatawanan, nagbibiruan... mga bagay na hindi namin nagagawa...
Parang nadurog yung puso ko.
Then suddenly, someone taps my shoulder.
“What are you doing here?” yung lalaki kanina. nakangiti parin siya.
Humarap ako sa kanya. Naku! Hala? Anong sasabihin ko? anong excuse ko?
“Eh... ano... wala! Hinahanap ko lang yung room ko! sige bye!” sabay takbo ko
palayo.
Nakakahiya. Hindi ko talaga inaasahan yun. Sobrang nahihiya ako dahil sa inasal ko.
Nakarating na rin ako sa room ko. Nakakapanibago. Hindi ako sanay, ganito pala ang
buhay college. Parang may mga sariling mundo ang mga tao. Kahit na anung gawin mo
walang papansin sa’yo unless kapansin-pansin ka.
Nag-start na agad yung class. kalahati ng utak ko lutang. Hindi maalis sa isipan ko
kung sino yung babaeng kausap ni Jed kanina. I can still picture them out of my
mind. Yung puso ko, parang nagkapira-piraso dahil sa nakita ko.
Natapos ang klase, panay day dream lang ang ginawa ko. hindi ako pinatigil ng utka
ko kakaisip kay Jed. Kahit na magkikita naman kami mamaya sa bahay eh parang ilang
taon ko na siyang hindi nakikita. Gusto kong maramdaman yung pagmamahal ng asawa
ko. kahit kaunti lang...
Lumabas na ako ng room. Agad kong pinuntahan si Jed sa room niya kung saan ko siya
nakita kanina. Sakto namang naabutan ko siya. Mukhang paalis na sila ng barkada
niya. Hinabol ko siya sa hallway.
“Jed!” tawag ko.

Tumigil naman siya sa paglalakad at Lumingon sa akin. Ako nama’y tumatakbo parin
palapit sa kaniya.
Nang makalapit na ako sa kanya, nagpihinga ako ng sandali para makahinga at para na
rin mawala ang kaba sa dibdib ko.
“Jed! Sino siya? ipakilala mo naman siya sa amin oh! Hindi mo sinasabi may bago ka
palang chic!” sabi nung isang kasama ni Jed. Inakbayan nito si Jed pero tinanggal
ni Jed ang pagkakaakbay ng kaibigan sa kanya.
“Anong Kelangan mo?” masungit na tanong ni Jed.
“Ano... i-itatanong k-ko lang s-sana k-kung a-anong oras ang uwi mo sa
bahay?”ganito talaga ako eh. Hindi ako makapag salita ng maayos kapag nasa harapan
ko si Jed.
“Wag ka nang mag luto, hindi ako kakain sa bahay.” Sabay lakad palayo sa akin.
Anong oras nanaman kaya uuwi si Jed? Hanggang anong oras nanaman ba ako mag
hihintay sa pag uwi ng asawa ko?
Alas dose na nang hating gabi pero wala pa rin si Jed. Mejo inaantok na ako.
Natapos ko na lahat ng gawaing bahay pati na rin ang assignments ko. pero wala
parin si Jed... mukhang nakipag-inuman nanaman sa mga kaibigan niya.
Naghintay pa ako ulit ng halos kalahating oras. Hanggang sa mapapikit na lang ako
habang naka upo sa sofa.
Bigla akong naalimpungatan nang may madinig akong Pagbukas ng gate. Agad akong
tumayo at pinagbuksan ng pintuan. Nakita ko si Jed, nakaupo doon sa hagdanan sa
labas ng gate. Binuksan ko yung gate at inalalayan siya Papasok ng bahay.
“Jed naman, bakit ka nanaman nag lasing? May pasok pa tayo bukas... sasakit nanaman
yang ulo mo. Mukhang marami kang nainom.” Pangaral ko sa kanya. Kahit na alam kong
hindi naman niya naiintindihan.
“Wola kang pakhe! Maras ka sa buhay kho!” sambit niya habang inaalalayan ko siya
papasok ng kuwarto niya.
Oo, magkahiwalay kami ng kuwarto. Ayon ang utos ng mga magulang namin, bawal pa daw
kaming magtabi sa higaan hangga’t hindi pa kami tapos ng pag-aaral. Pero, kahit na
ganoon ay hindi naman gugustuhin ni Jed na makatabi ako sa kama.
Ihiniga ko si Jed sa kama. Balak ko na sanang kumuha ng maligamgam na tubig at

damit para kay Jed nang bigla niyang hawakan ang kamay ko.
Napatingin ako sa kanya. Lasing na lasing na siya... naaawa ako sa asawa ko.
“Leila? Bakit ikaw pa?”
“H-ha?”
“Sana hindi ka na lang dumating sa buhay ko... edi sana yung babaeng mahal ko
ngayon ang pinakasalan ko. kung hindi dahil sa’yo... hindi ako magkaka-ganito...”
Matapos niyang bitawan ang mga salitang ‘yon, binitawan niya ang kamay ko at
nakatulog na siya.
Hindi ko mapigilang hindi maluha sa mga sinabi niya. Alam kong lasing siya pero
masakit para sa akin na marinig yon mula sa kanya. Napaluhod ako sa harapan niya.
Nakatulog na siya... habang ako umiiyak.
“Jed, hindi pa rin ba ako sapat? Kahit kaunting pagmamahal lang... kahit latak lang
ang ibigay mo sa akin...” napahagulgol ako sa iyak.
Para akong sinaksak ng kutsilyo nang napakaraming beses. Ang sakit... sobrang sakit
na marinig ‘yon mula sa kanya.
---------------------------------------
A man should never make his girl feel sad and doubtful. A man must make his girl
happy and contented being with him not being with someone else...
-----------------------------------------
=================
Chapter 2
Chapter 2:
“C’mon hija, tanggapin mo na kasi ang tulong ko.”

“Sorry mama pero hindi ko po matatanggap yung offer niyo. Pikaramdam ko po hindi
ako mabuting asawa kung tatanggapin ko ang tulong niyo.” Yumuko ako.
Nakita kong sumandal si mama sa upuan niya. Nasa isang Chinese restaurant kami.
Nadinig ko siyang napa buntong hinga. “I guess, wala na talaga akong
magagawa...” malungkot na sabi nito.
Nakatungo parin ako. Nahihiya ako kay mama, napakalaki na nang naitulong niya sa
amin ni Jed. Masuwerte ako at napakabait nang mama ni Jed sa akin. Ramdam kong
gustong-gusto niya ako.
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko, dahilan nang pag-lift up ng ulo ko.
“I know Leila, nahihirapan ka na... I’m sorry for making you in pain.” Nangingiyak
na sabi nito sa akin.
Maging ako, gusto ko ring umiyak. Ngumiti na lang ako kay mama.
“I guess, this is what I can do for now...” Hinigpitan niya ang pagkakahawak sa

kamay ko. “Don’t give up on my son okay? Just love him, hanggang sa dumating yung
araw na mahalin ka rin niya...” mama cheers me up.
Tumulo ang luha ko sa naalala ko. Mag-iisang linggo na rin noong gabing yoon pero
paulit-ulit ko parin itong naaalala at patuloy parin akong nasasaktan.
Pinunasan ko ang mga luha ko. “Sana nga po, dumating na yung araw na ‘yon.” Sabay
ngiti ko.
“I do believe hija, Naniniwala akong mare-realize din ni Jed kung gaano ka niya
kamahal.”
Naglakad lang ako pauwi nang bahay matapos naming kumain sa restaurant. Gusto ko
ring magpahangin. Masakit para sa akin yung hindi ako kayang mahalin nang asawa ko.
Masakit para sa akin na hinihiling niyang hindi na lang sana ako ang pinakasalan
niya. Pero ano pa nga bang magagawa ko? Isa akong martir na asawa. Naghihintay na
pag gising sa umaga yayakapin ako nang asawa ko at mamahalin hanggang kamatayan.
Hindi ko alam kung sadyang tanga o bobo ako sa pag-ibig. Pero ika nga nila, ganun
daw talaga kapag nagmamahal?
Sa sobrang pagka-wala ko sa sarili, nawala rin sa isip ko na naglalakad ako at

nabangga ko yung taong nasa harapan ko. Sa sobrang lakas nang impact ay napaupo ako
sa kalsada.
“Sorry...” sabi ko.
I lift my head. Nanlaki yung mga mata ko nang makita ko kung sino yung nakabangga
ko.
“Ikaw?” we both uttered. He’s the guy from our school. Yung lalaking nakabangga ko
rin sa hallway nung hinahanap ko kung nasaan si Jed.
“I’m sorry. Wala kasi ako sa sarili ko.” sabi ko sabay yuko.
Iniisip ko ngayon na pagagalitan niya ako at sisigawan. Sasabihan nang “Ang tanga
tanga mo! Di ka kasi tumitingin sa daanan!” but I was wrong...
What he did is, he laughs at me. For the second time that we’ve met? He laughs
again at me.
This guy is really weird. He always laughs whenever we met.
“C’mon! Don’t be so funny! Here...” once again, I lift my head. His hand reaches me
to pull me up.
Inabot ko naman ang kamay niya. “Look, nagasgasan ka tuloy.” Sabi niya nang may
pag-aalala.
Parang lumundag ang puso ko. Yung tono nang boses niya, it’s something that I never
heard from Jed. At kung si Jed ang nakabangga ko? Baka nabasag na ang eardrums ko
sa sobrang kakasigaw niya sa akin.
Kumuha siya nang panyo sa bulsa. Slowly, he put it into my burse. “Masakit ba?”
I smile. Umiling-iling ako bilang tugon sa tanong niya. Hindi ko mapigilang hindi
ngumiti.
Dinala niya ako sa isang convenient store. He bought some disinfectant and a gauze
pad. Meron din siyang dalang panglinis nang sugat, yung kulay green? Hindi ko alam
ang tawag eh. Umupo kami sa bench sa isang park.
“Bakit ka ba kasi wala sa sarili mo kanina?” tanong niya habang nalilinis yung

sugat ko na nasa may kanang siko.
“Dahil sa asawa ko na hindi ako kayang mahalin.” Walang habas kong sabi.
Agad kong tinakpan ang bibig ko. napatingin naman siya sa akin. Halatang gulat na
gulat siya sa sinabi ko.
“What? May asawa ka?” Napatungo ulit ako.
I just nod as an answer. “For serious? You’re already married?” hindi talaga siya

makapaniwala.
Ikinuwento ko sa kanya ang buhay ko. Ang buhay may asawa ko pala.
At the age of ten I was married to our company’s business partner. Para daw hindi
na kumalat pa yung kayamanan nang pamilya. I was ten and he was thirteen at that
time. Isang old tradition ang kasal namin sa China at that time. Those times of my
life is the happiest for me... doon ko siya unang nakita. Sa araw nang ceremony
nang kasal. Unang kita ko palang sa kanya parang gustong kumawala nang puso ko sa
sobrang pagkabog nito. And that moment, I know he’s the one. Balak nang parents
namin na ipakasal ulit kami but this time isang church wedding at Chinese wedding.
Yes, we are bind with a contract but our hearts are in contrast. It was like I’m
the only one who holds the rope.
“That was awful. For seriously? Nakakayanan mong makisama sa asawa mo kahit na
nasasaktan ka?”
I smile at him. “I can bear all those pain. Ang hindi ko lang kaya ay yung mawala
siya sa tabi ko sa paggising ko. Well, yeah... papel lang ang nagsasabing mag-asawa
kami, at ang turing niya sa akin ay malayo sa pagiging asawa. Pero kahit na ganoon,
umasa parin ako... na darating yung panahon na mamahalin rin niya ako...”
Few seconds of silence. Then he talks again. “You know, you’re kindda tough. You’re
different. I like you...” hindi ko alam pero parang namula ang mga pisngi ko nung
mga oras na ‘yon. Nung sabihin niya ang salitang “I like you...” ewan ko ba. Bigla
akong namula doon at bumilis ang tibok nang puso ko. napa-yuko tuloy ulit ako para
hindi niya mahalata.
A few moments of silence again. Then I break the glass.
“You know...” napatingin ako sa kanya. He look curious on what will I say. “Ang

lalim na nang pinag-usapan natin but I haven’t know your name...” then he chuckles.
“Oo nga no?” then he laughs. “I’m Patrick. Patrick Tan... and you are?” then he
offers his hand.
I reach for it and we shake our hands. “I’m Leila. Leila Sy... Chan for short.”
“Chan?” then inalis niya yung kamay niya sa pagkakahawak sa kamay ko. “Bakit ang
layo naman nang nickname mo sa pangalan mo?”
“It’s my birth surname. Chan. Leila Chan. My friends used to call me Chan... Sy is
my husband’s surname.”
“Sy? Looks familiar to me.”
“Then, para maiba... I’ll call you Lei! Is that okay?” natutuwa niyang sabi.
I just smile while nodding. “Okay, Lei... can I walk you home?”
Wala naman siguro si Jed sa bahay. Baka kasama nanaman niya yung mga kabarkada
niya.
Pumayag akong ihatid ako ni Patrick pauwi nang bahay. Naglakad lang kami kasi
walking distance lang naman.
“So, I guess hanggang dito ka na lang...” I said.
Pinagmamasdan niya yung buong bahay. “Kasama mo ba sa bahay yung husband mo?”

“Oo, kaming dalawa lang ang nakatira dito.”
“For serious? Hindi ba masyadong malaki ‘to para sa inyong dalawa?”
I was about to answer but...
“San ka ba nagpunta???” nagulat ako.
Napatingin ako sa likod ko. Si Jed, nasa bahay? Naka sandal siya sa may main door
nang bahay. Naglakad siya papunta sa gate kung saan ako nakatayo.
Natatakot ako... baka magalit si Jed dahil may kasama akong lalaki.
“Patrick? Anong ginagawa mo dito?” napatingin ako kay Patrick.
He smiles at Jed. “Hinahatid yung asawa mo, hindi mo kasi sinamahan eh...”
“Magkakilala kayo?” tanong ko sa dalawa.
“Anong pakielam mo?” pambabara sa akin ni Jed. “Kaibigan ko yan... san ka ba

nagpunta? Kanina pa kita inaantay, nagugutom na ko!” dagdag pa niya.
Napabuntong hininga ako. Magkaibigan pala sila...
“Sige pre, alis na ako...” paalam ni Patrick.
“Wait, Patrick!” huminto ito sa paglalakad. “Dito ka na muna, maghahanda ako nang

makakain... kaibigan ka naman ni Jed so why not come inside? It’ll be a token of
thanks for helping me...” then I smile.
He smiles at me. Pumasok na kaming tatlo sa loob nang bahay.
Agad akong nagbihis nang pambahay, dumiretsyo ako nang kusina para maghanda nang
miryenda nilang dalawa.
Simple lang naman, dalawang slice ng strawberry short cake at dalawang baso nang
lemonade. Walang effort sa paghahanda. Sadyang wala lang talagang alam si Jed sa
mga gawain sa kusina. Sanay kasi siyang pinagsisilbihan kahit ngayon na mag-asawa
kami. Pero masaya akong pagsilbihan siya. Kasi dito ko lang naipapakita sa kanya
yung worth ko bilang asawa niya.
Naabutan ko sila sa sala na nagkukwentuhan. Inilapag ko sa center table yung cake

at yung inumin nila.
“Maghahanda lang ako nang hapunan... gusto mo ba dito ka na rin kumain nang
hapunan?” tanong ko kay Patrick.
Anong oras na rin kasi.
“Naku, Nakakahiya naman sa’yo Lei. Ok na sa akin ‘to. besides, nakaka-istorbo yata
ako sa inyo ni Jed.”
“Hindi, ok lang talaga. Ikaw ang unang bisita namin dito.”
Tumalikod na ako sa kanila. Dumiretsyo ako ng kusina para maghanda ng hapunan

naming tatlo. Shrimp tempura and Lobsters lang ang ihinanda ko para sa gabi na ‘to.
paburito kasi ‘to ni Jed. At dahil kaibigan niya si Patrick, gusto kong ipaghanda
sila pareho ng espesyal. Gusto kong magpasalamat kay Patrick sa pakikinig niya sa
akin kanina.
“Guys, dinner’s ready...” tawag ko sa kanila from the sofa nang matapos kong ihanda
ang lamesa.
Umupo na kaming tatlo. “Wow! Impressive cooking skills!” bati sa akin ni Patrick.
Napangiti na lang ako at napatingin ka Jed. Parang wala lang sa kanya. I sighed a
bit. Para sakanya pa naman ang espesyal na ulam na ‘to, pero hindi man lang niya
pinuri.
Pero sanay na naman ako. Ni minsan hindi pinuri ni Jed ang kahit na anong gawin ko
para sa kanya. Pero gagawin ko parin ang lahat para lang sa kanya.
NATAPOS na kaming kumain. Ihinatid ko si Patrick palabas.
“Salamat sa pakikinig mo sa akin kanina ha.” Sabi ko nang buksan ko yung gate.
Lumabas naman siya at humarap sa akin. “Ano ka ba, wala yun! Salamat sayo kasi
nakakain ako ng masarap for tonight!” we both laugh.
Few moments of silence. I was waiting for him to say good bye.
“May malapit na park ba dito?”
“Ha?”
“Would you mind if you join my company for a little while?”
“Ha?” he pulled me outside our house.
He was holding my wrist while we are walking along the street. Hindi ko alam kung
saan kami pupunta but all I know is he was holding my hand.
“Uhh, Patrick? Saan ba tayo pupunta? Baka hinahanap na ako ni Jed sa bahay.” Sabi
ko.
He look at me and smile. “Just trust me okay?”
I don’t know why pero I just feel like I’m safe with him. It feels like that I
could trust him.
After a few minutes. Tumigil kami sa park.
“Great!” sabi ni Patrick nang makita niyang walang tao sa loob ng park.
Hinila niya ako Papasok doon. “Patrick, gabi na... I need to go home.”
“C’mon Lei! Minsan ka lang mage-enjoy!” then he put his hands on my shoulder and
pushes me on the swing.
“Umupo ka jan” he ordered me.
I follow his orders. I sit down. And then my heart skip a bit when he pull the
chain going up.
“One, two, three!” then he let go and I swing so high.
Grabe ang kaba ko. natatakot akong mahulog sa pagkakaupo ko. habang patagal nang
patagal Lalong pataas nang pataas. Lalo ring bumibilis ang tibok ng puso ko sa
sobrang takot.
Pero masaya... sobrang saya!
Para akong bumalik sa pagkabata... it reminds me of my childhood.
“Wag niyo nga siyang sasaktan! Leave her alone!” those moments.
Sana hindi na kami lumaki ni Jed. I missed that little Jed.
The guy I fell in loved. The guy who saved me...
The guy who promised me...

“Hayaan mo na sila, nandito lang ako sa tabi mo. Di kita iiwan, promise.”
Those words. The promises. Where did it go now? Why did it fade?
“Thank you Patrick sa paghatid dito.” Sabi ko kay Patrick.
“Ano ka ba! Wag ka ngang masyadong pormal, Pat na lang. we’re friends na right?” he
smile at me. I smile back. “yeah, Pat. Thanks for this day...”
Napakamot siya ng ulo. “You should be going inside, baka hinahanap ka na ni Jed.

See you around at school.” Then he waves his hand while walking away from the
house.
Hinintay ko muna siyang makalayo bago ako pumasok sa loob ng bahay.
Pag pasok ko sa loob. “Saan ka nagpunta?’ usisa ni Jed.
Nakaupo siya sa sala nanunuod ng TV. Hindi ko alam kung matutuwa ba ako o matatakot
sa tanong ni Jed.
“Ah, sinamahan ko si Patrick sa park”
Hindi man lang siya Lumingon sa akin. Hindi rin siya nagsalita pa.
Balak ko sanang umakyat na ng kuwarto nang biglang mawalan ng ilaw. Sobrang
dilim... wala akong makita kaya napaupo ako sa sahig. Takot ako sa madidilim na
lugar. Ayoko sa madilim na lugar...
Ipinikit ko yung mga mata ko. gusto kong isigaw ang pangalan niya pero baka hindi
niya lang ako pansinin. Gusto kong tumabi sa kanya. Gusto kong yakapin siya para
mawala tong takot ko.
Gusto ko...
“Leila, ok ka lang ba?” napamulat yung mga mata ko. I lift my head and see him
seating in front of me.
My tears can’t help not to fall. “Jed...” sa sobrang tuwa ko napayakap ako sa

kanya.
“OY! Ano ka ba! Matutum--” napapikit na lang ako nang maramdaman kong unti-unti
kaming bumagsak sa sahig.
Biglang bumilis yung tibok ng puso ko. sobrang bilis... hindi ko maipaliwanag.
Then, I can feel his breathing. We’re so close with each other. I’m on his top. Why
I can’t move? Naramdaman kong nakapatong yung isa niyang kamay sa bandang waist ko.
it makes my spine chills a bit.
Nawala yung ilaw na galing sa cell phone niya. It’s still dark, the lights aren’t
working. It make me even more scared. I can’t open my eyes.
“Leila...” nadinig kong tinawag ako ni Jed. “could you please stand up?”
Hindi ko alam... hindi ko alam kung bakit hindi ako makatayo sa pagkakahiga naming
dalawa. I feel scared yet safe while I’m with him.
“I can’t...” nangingilid na yung luha ko. I can’t cry at this situation. Magbabasa

ko yung shirt niya if I cry.
“Damn it Leila. You still act like a child. Hanggang ngayon takot ka parin sa
dilim?” he said calmly. My heart beats came back to normal. I feel calm when I
heard his calm voice even though I can’t see him.
“You know how I’m scared of the dark. Please, for once... stay by my
side.” Hinigpitan ko yung pagkakahawak ko sa shirt niya. I heard him sigh.
Naramdaman kong iginagalaw niya yung isa niyang kamay. Reaching out for something I
guess? While his other hand was holding on my waist.
“Can’t reach for my phone. Tumayo ka muna saglit para mahanap ko yung phone ko. we
don’t have any emergency lights.”
“Ayoko. Natatakot ako...”
I heard him sigh again. Mukhang naiinis na yata siya sa akin.
“Ganito na lang, I’ll hold your hand for the rest of the night. Just get up okay?”
Hinawakan niya yung kanang kamay ko. I trust him. So I get up and sit properly. But
he let go of my hand. For second I feel scared kasi bigla siyang Bumitiw at
napakadilim pa ng paligid. But to surprise me...
Biglang umilaw yung phone niya. I can clearly see him in front of me. then he grabs
my hand.
“Tara...” he commanded me. I stand up, kasabay ng pagtayo niya.
Umakyat kami papunta sa kuwarto ko. mukhang hahayaan na lang niya ako sa kuwarto ko
mag-isa. Bigla akong nakaramdam ng lungkot.
He opens the door.
Nakaramdam nanaman ako ng takot. Natatakot akong iwanan niya ako...
Napahigpit ako ng hawak sa kamay niya. It cause him to stop.
“Bakit?”
“Iiwan mo ba ko dito mag-isa?”
“Diba sabi ko hahawakan ko yung kamay mo buong gabi, pano ko mahahawakan yung kamay
mo kung iiwanan kita dito?” mejo may pagka sarcastic yung pagkakasabi niya but I
feel happy to hear those words from him.
We’re both lying on my bed. Kinakabahan ako. Hindi ko alam kung bakit.
Hindi malaki ang kama ko para magkasya kami at makahiga ng maayos. What we do,
pinasandal niya yung ulo ko on his chest. Nakakaramdam tuloy ako ngayon ng kaba.
Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko. napakatahimik pa ng paligid. Parang kaunting singhot
ko lang o pag hikab makakagawa na ng ingay.
He was just holding my hand the whole night. It made me feel happy.
“I love you...”
Those words were meant for him but it could not reach him...
--------------------------------------------
Never let go of his hand even though she/he says let go. Sometimes, they just want
us to fight for them and stay strong to hold onto...
----------------------------------------------
Anne's Note: HO HO HO HO! I MISS YOU WATTPADERS!!! >_____< sorry this take too much
long! >/\< sana magustuhan niyo po ang chapter na 'to! :DD
btw, I'm dedicating this to her =)) Hi! *kaway kaway* Thanks for the comment. =))
feel free to LEAVE A COMMENT. VOTE. ADD IT TO YOUR READING LIST or EVEN SHARE IT
WITH YOUR FRIENDS! :DD pagpasensyahan niyo na ko sa kabagalan ko. sobrang walang
time po talaga para mag update ng mga stories ehh.. busy busyhan po sa school ~o^V
Enjoy reading!
God bless!
=================
Chapter 3
Chapter 3:
Nasa simbahan ako ngayon. I’ve always dream to be in here with Jed. To stand here
in front of the altar with him. And now, it’s coming true... but in a different
way. It’s not what I’ve wanted to...
Gusto ko siyang yakapin. I wanted to make him feel better. I wanna comfort him in
my own arms.
But I can’t...
Gusto kong yakapin siya... alam kong malungkot siya ngayon. Kahit hindi niya
ipinapakita sa harap ng maraming tao pero pansin ko yon... alam kong malungkot siya
ngayon.
Alam kong gusto niyang umiyak.
Gusto kong sabihin sa kanya...
Jed, umiyak ka lang sa balikat ko... nandito lang ako kung kailangan mo ako. Kahit
di mo ako kailangan parati lang akong nandito sa tabi mo... kahit na di mo ako
napapansin, buong puso ko iniaalay ko sayo... kasi ganon kita kamahal.
Pero kaya ko nga bang sabihin ‘yon sa kanya? But then, will he allow me to say
those words to him? Will he listen to me?
All I can do is stand beside him, and watch him in pain...

Hawak na niya yung holy water. Walang emosyon niyang binasbasan ang kabaong ng
kanyang ama.
Hindi ko alam kung paano ko mapapagaan ang kalooban niya. Alam kong hindi madali
ang lahat ng mga ‘to... he was his dad’s favourite son. And now that his father’s
gone, he’ll be his successor. Siya na ang mamamahala ng kumpanya. He’ll take over
his father’s place. At the age of 22, responsibilidad na niyang patakbuhin ang
kumpanya at pamunuan ito. Hindi pa siya nakaka-graduate ng college pero siya na ang
Chairman ng Sy Corporation.
Isang taon na rin ako sa Elite. I think I can already see myself as good as Jed.
Isang semester na lang siya dito sa school. And by the time he graduates, full
hands na siya sa corporation. Nakakalungkot mang isipin pero he’ll be busy with the
corporate world. Lalo nang mapapalayo ang asawa ko sa akin.
Lalong hindi niya ako mapapansin...
After mailibing si papa sa cemetery dumiretsyo kami ng bahay nila Jed. There, sa
may isang corner nakalagay yung picture ni papa. May nakalagay ng insenso sa
magkabilang side. It’s a Chinese belief. Parehong Chinese ang parents ni Jed but
they we’re both have a good relationship with Filipinos kaya yung ibang practice ng
mga Pilipino ay ina-adopt nila mula noon pa lang.
Ni-request ni mama na mag stay muna kami sa bahay. She’s still in sorrow kahit na
hindi niya ipinapakita ‘yon. Natapos kaming mag dinner at lahat pero nababalot ang
buong bahay ng katahimikan. We’re missing the presence of papa. Papa was the clown
of their family. he’s not that kind of business minded kagaya ng ibang Chinese. He
manage well his relationship with his family and within the company.
Gusto ko sanang tumulong sa mga maids mag linis ng pinagkainan namin but mama
refuse me to do those things. She said hindi daw bagay sa akin ang mga ganoong
gawain.
“Ate Chan tabi tayo ngayon sa room ko!” aya ni Fei. Bunsong kapatid ni Jed.
Dadalawa lang silang Magkapatid ni Jed. Fei is only 16 years old at nasa 3rd year
high school na siya ngayon kung saan ako nag aral noon. Pumayag naman ako, miss ko
na rin si Fei kasi hindi na kami nagkikita. Magkaiba na kasi kami ngayon ng school.
Nasa kuwarto ako ngayon ni Fei. Nakaupo kami sa kama habang sinusuklay ko ang buhok
niya. Gustong gusto niya kasing inaayusan ko siya ng buhok.
“I miss going sa bahay niyo ni kuya Jed! Ang tagal ko nang di nakakapunta since
nagkasakit si papa... can I visit you and kuya sometime?” excited na sabi niya.
Ngumiti lang ako sabay tango. “Yeahay! Thank you ate Chan!” sabay yakap niya sa
akin.
Pakiramdam ko si Jed ang yumayakap sa akin. Magkamukhang –magkamukha kasi silang

dalawa. Para bang kambal. Hindi mo maipagkakaila na Magkapatid nga silang dalawa.
“Now that papa’s gone, things will be different...” nagsimula nang mangilid ang
luha ni Fei. Napakahirap para sa kanila na mawala ang papa nila. Maging ako
nalulungkot, kasi tumayong tatay ko na rin si papa. “It’s hard... ang hirap kapag
wala si papa” at tuluyan nang umiyak sa akin si Fei.
Niyakap ko siya at hinaplos-haplos ang buhok niya. Sana mayakap ko rin ng ganito
ngayon si Jed, I wish I can comfort him right now...
Nakatulog na sa kakaiyak si Fei. Naisipan ko nang matulog rin but something inside
me tells me I wanna drink a glass of milk. Kaya lumabas ako ng kuwarto at pumunta
ng kusina para magtimpla ng gatas. Naisipan ko namang pumunta ng rooftop nila para
doon muna magpalipas ng antok. Tulog na ang lahat kasi, at mukhang mahangin sa
labas. Gusto kong makalanghap ng hangin mula sa labas...
Pag-akyat ko ng rooftop hindi ko inaasahang Nandoon rin pala si Jed. Nakaupo siya
sa wooden swing, nakatungo at mukhang alam ko na kung bakit.
Looks like he noticed me because he lift up his head and looks directly into my
direction.
“Bakit gising ka pa?” tanong niya.
Bigla akong kinabahan. Para akong magc-confess sa crush ko sa kalagayan ko ngayon.

Kahit na mag asawa na kami, I still feel this kind of feeling. The same feelings I
felt when I was ten years old and married him.
Nilakasan ko ang loob ko para maglakad papunta sa kanya. At nagawa ko, nakaupo pa
ako sa tabi niya.
“Gusto ko lang sanang mag pahangin. Ikaw? Bakit gising ka pa? maaga pa ang pasok
natin bukas, baka ma late ka nanaman. Umiinom ka nanaman.” Sita ko.
Napakamot siya ng ulo. “Bakit ikaw? Gising ka parin nga eh! Saka wala kang paki
kung mag inom ako... kaya ko ang sarili ko.” pagmamayabang nito sa akin.
Mayroon akong pakielam, kasi asawa mo ako...
Uminom muli siya mula doon sa can na hawak niya. Napatingin ako sa gatas na hawak
ko. ininom ko rin yung dala kong gatas. I don’t know how to put up a
conversation... hindi ko alam ang sasabihin ko.
“Hindi ka nanaman ba makatulog?” kalmadong tanong niya sa akin.
Napatingin ako sa kanya... tila tumalon yung puso ko sa tuwa. Pakiramdam ko

nagaalala siya sa akin. Agad kong ibinalik yung tingin ko sa gatas na hawak ko nang
Ibinaling niya yung tingin niya sa akin. Hindi ko mapigilang hindi itago yung ngiti
ko, yung saya ko dahil sa tanong niyang yoon.
Instead of answering him, umiling-iling na lang ako.
A few more moments of silence came. Ang awkward nanaman ng surroundings.
But then, it surprise me nang may pumatong sa kanang balikat ko. I was about to
look at Jed pero hinawakan niya yung kabilang shoulder ko.
“Don’t look at me... hayaan mo muna ako” kalmadong sabi nito.
Sinunod ko ang sabi niya. Then, naramdaman kong nababasa na yung kanan kong balikat
kung saan nakasandal si Jed. I know what’s that... he was crying.
It makes my heart relieve in pain. Kahit na wala siyang sabihin, alam kong
malungkot siya ngayon. Alam kong kanina niya pa gustong umiyak. Ayaw lang niyang
ipakita sa harap ng ibang tao.
Hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili ko, niyakap ko siya. nakasandal parin yung ulo
niya sa balikat ko. I slowly, yet gently touch his back.
Wala akong ibang masabi. Hindi ko kayang magsalita. This is the only thing I can do
for him... to comfort him.
---------------------------
“Ang daya moooo Chaaaannnn!” pagmamaktol ni Chester. Kaibigan ko.
Napatingin ako sa kanya. “Meeeehhhh! Ikaw na napapaligiran ng mga hoootttiieee

fafas dito sa Elite! Ikaw na ang Prinsesa! Eto na gurl! Ipapasa ko na sayo ang
krona! Pak!” inggit na inggit niyang sabi habang kunwari’y may crown nga sa ulo
niya at akmang ipapatong sa ulo ko.
Natawa na lang ako sa kanya. Siya ang isa sa mga naging kaibigan ko dito sa school.
Oo, tama kayo... isa siyang gay. Isang napaka bait at supportive na kaibigan itong
si Chester. Kahit na parati siyang naiinggit sa akin sa di ko malaman na dahilan.
Nasa canteen kami ngayon para kumain ng lunch. May baon akong lunch. Maaga kasi
akong gumigising kaya may time pa ako para gumawa ng lunch. If you’ll ask kung may
gawa rin akong lunch para kay Jed? Nope. Ayaw niyang nagbabaon ng lunch. Mas gusto
niya kasing bumili sa canteen or lumabas ng school para kumain.
“Wow! Mukhang masarap yang baon mo Chan! The best wife ka talaga!” puri naman sa
akin ni Charlotte.
Si Charlotte naman ang pinsan ni Chester. Silang dalawa ang madalas kong makasama
dahil na rin sa pareho kami ng block section. I treasure these two so much. They
we’re my first friends.
Before I recollect my memories from the past, someone suddenly uttered.
“Wow! Ang sarap naman niyan!” Napalingon ako sa likod ko. It’s Patrick.
Umupo siya sa may kaliwang side ko since walang nakaupo doon. Nakita ko namang nag
appear yung magpinasan dahilan nang pagtingin ko sa kanila na may pagtataka.
Kinuha ko sa bag ko yung isa ko pang baon na pack lunch. Ibinigay ko ‘to kay
Patrick.
“Eto na yung lunch mo oh” sabi ko sa kanya. Nakatingin lang siya sa nakalapag na
lunch box. Halatang gutom na gutom na siya.
“Wow! The best ka talaga Lei! Tamang tama, kanina pa kumukulo yung tiyan ko!”
“Hay naku! Fafa Pat nemen eehh! You’re hurting meeee! Eeekkk! I’m so jelly at you
talaga Chan!” pagtatampo naman ni Chester.
“Hoy Chester! Wag ka ngang ambisyosa jan!” sita naman ni Charlotte.
“Couzzz nemen ehh! It’s Chezcka! Not Chester! Chezckaaaaaaa!” Nagtawanan kaming
apat. Proud si Chester sa pagiging Pusong babae at wala siyang itinatago na
pagkatao sa kahit na sino magging sa mga magulang niya.
“Lei, anong baon mo bukas? The best talaga ‘tong Caldereta mo!” sabay inom ng
tubig.
Since me and Patrick became friends, parati ko na siyang ipnagdadala ng lunch niya
at sabay kaming kumakain ng lunch kasama si Chester at Charlotte.
“Eh lahat naman yata ng pagkain na niluto ni Chan masarap para sayo eh!” pambabara
naman ni Charlotte.
“Ay korek ka jan gurl! Kahit yata pakainin mo ng lason yan Chan masasarapan parin
si fafa Pats ehh! Kasi?” napatingin kaming dalawa ni Patrick kay Chester at
Charlotte.
“PG! Short for Patay Gutom!” sabay na sabi nung mag pinsan at Nagtawanan.
“Hoy! Kayong dalawa ha! Grabe kayo makapang okray sa akin! Eh sa masarap naman
talagang mag luto si Lei eh!” proud na sabi ni Patrick. Napangiti ako. Kasi alam
kong mag nakaka-appreciate ng cooking skills ko.
Napabuntong hininga ako nang maalala ko si Jed.
Ano kayang kinakain niya ngayon? Saan siya nag lunch? Sino ang kasama niya?
It’s been a week since yung libing ng papa niya. We’re still staying at her mom’s
house. Kaya hindi ko tuloy siya mapag silbihan ngayon. Lahat kasi ng ginagawa ko sa
bahay para sa kanya eh yung maid ang gumagawa. Pakiramdam ko tuloy ngayon, napaka
worthless kong asawa.
“Nasa isang restaurant ngayon si Jed. Kasama ang tropa.” Bumalik ako sa reyalidad
nang madinig kong may nagsalita. It was Patrick. Napatingin ako sa kanya, kumakain
siya.
Nagsimula na rin akong kumain. Naiwan na nila kasi ako sa pagkain ng lunch.
Lumipas ang oras hanggang sa makauwi na ako ng bahay.
Bumungad sa sala si mama. “Oh, Chan! Bakit hindi mo nanaman kasabay umuwi si Jed?”
tanong sa akin ni mama as I walk towards her.
I kiss her on her cheeks. “May klase pa po si Jed. Nauna na po akong umuwi sa
kanya...” pero ang totoo, hindi ko alam kung nasaan si Jed. Siguro kasama na niya
ngayon yung mga kaibigan niya at nagbabalak mag bar hopping.
“Hay naku! Jed’s been busy every day passes by. Nawawalan na siya ng time para
sayo! Ni hindi na nga kayo nagkikita sa bahay na ‘to or naguusap! Sa school naman,
alam kong parang stranger lang ang turing niya sayo. Hindi ka niya pinapansin o
sinasamahan mag lunch! Jed’s out of his mind to take you for granted. You are a
perfect wife for him! I’m sorry sweetie, Jed always makes you feel in pain.” Then
she pats my shoulder. Napangiti ako. Nangingilid ang mga luha ko. may iba pa palang
nakakapansin, someone notices me. someone knows how I am suffering.
“Ok lang po mama. Kaya ko pong mag tiis. Para kay Jed, gagawin ko po lahat...”
Then she hug me tight. Nang magka-kalas kami sa pagkakayakap ay pinunasan namin
yung luha ng bawat isa. At ngumiti.
“By the way mama, I have something to do today... I’ll cook dinner for Jed.”
“Well that’s great my dear! Go on, I have my own plans for the two of you...”
nagtataka akong napatingin kay mama but she only give me a smile as an answer.
I’ll prepare something special for Jed tonight. I want him to eat something
delightful.
Isang semester na lang, Lalong mawawalan na ako ng chance na makita siya... isang
sem na lang kasi graduate na si Jed. He’ll going to be very busy managing the
company. I’ll be more nothing to him... Lalong mawawalan na siya ng time at Lalong
hindi na niya ako mapapansin pa.
I realize my tears fall down so I wipe it and continue preparing Jed’s dinner for
tonight.
Time passed by. Malamig na yung niluto kong Chicken Curry pero wala parin ang asawa
ko. I was sitting here at the dining table the whole time waiting for him to come
home. Gusto ko sanang i-serve sa kanya ‘tong niluto ko habang mainit pa pero
mukhang hindi na yata mangyayari pa ‘yon.
“Ma’am Leila, gusto niyo bang initin na natin itong niluto niyo? Para po pagdating
ni Sir Jed mainit at mukhang bagong luto itong Chicken Curry niyo.” Sabi nung cook.
Nine o’clock na ng gabi. Will he comes home? Will he have time to eat my dish for
him pa ba?
Gusto ko nanamang maiyak. I feel so lonely. My heart feels so empty.
Pinilit kong ngumiti at tumingin sa cook nila Jed. “Manang, pagdating ni Jed
pakitanong na lang po siya kung gusto niyang kumain or kung nagugutom ba siya then
saka niyo na lang po initin yan at i-serve sa kanya, kung ayaw niya sa inyo na lang
po nila manang. Matutulog na po ako. May klase pa ako bukas.” Tumayo na ako.
“Pero ma’am... ok lang po ba sa inyo yun? Saka po, ilang oras na po kayong
naghihintay. Di po kayo kumakain ng hapunan.” Pagaalalang sabi nito.
Lumingon ako kay manang. “I’m ok. Hindi pa naman po ako nagugutom eh. Sige po...”
then I continue on walking up stairs to my room.
Pagkapasok na pagkapasok ko ng pintuan, agad akong sumalampak sa kama ko. ibinaon

ko yung mukha ko sa unan at kusang tumulo ang luha ko. hindi ko na napigilan.
Sobrang lungkot ko na ngayon. I was hoping na makakasabay ko siya sa pagkain but
then I was just hoping for something that won’t be happening.
KINABUKASAN.
Nakatulog pala ako sa kakaiyak. It’s another day for me to surpass this pain in my
heart. Maaga akong nagising. As always, maaga akong gumigising para mag prepare ng
baon ko. pagpunta ko sa kitchen agad bumungad sa akin si manang Elsa. Yung cook.
“Good morning po ma’am Leila.” Bati niya sa akin.
Ngumiti lang ako sa kanya. Kinuha ko na yung mga ingredients para sa baon ko today.
Naisip kong magluto ng nilagang baboy with mushroom soup. I already bought the
ingredients kahapon.
I’m still bothered about last night. Kinain kaya ni Jed? What time siya umuwi ng
bahay?
Gusto kong tanungin si manang kung dumating ba si Jed at kinain yung luto ko. But I
don’t have the guts to ask for that question kasi alam ko nanaman yung sagot. And
I’ll be making assumptions again that will fail my expectations all over again.
Habang nagluluto ako, mama suddenly came. “Good morning po mama.” I greeted. She
kiss me on my cheeks.
“Mukhang masarap nanaman yang niluluto mo ah, well, did Jed eat with you last
night?!” excited na tanong ni mama. I smile at her and look down. She already knows
my answer.
“That boy! I already said na umuwi siya ng maaga kagabi but he refuses me?!” galit
na sabi ni mama.
“Po?” I ask. Why did mama do that? I don’t understand.
She smiles at me and comb away the strands of my hair which covers my face.
“Nothing sweetie, just don’t mind me.”
“Will you make lunch for Jed today?” ngumiti ako at umiling-iling.
“Why??”
“Jed never wants lunch box during lunch. He eats with his friends po tuwing lunch.”
“Please Chan, make some lunch for Jed today. I’m sure he’ll like it.” how come?
Alam kong ayaw ni Jed at magagalit lang siya. baka itapon niya pa yung baunan kapag
ginawa ko. but will I give it a try?
Breakfast time na ng pamilya Sy. Fei, mama and I were sitting at the dining table
at nagku-kwentuhan when suddenly Jed came. Mejo nagulat ako. He usually woke up so
late kaya hindi kami nagkakasabay sa pagkain at Pagpasok. I’ll missed my first
subject if I’ll wait for him.
“Oh, you wake up early today! Anong meron kuya?” pangaasar ni Fei.
Ginulo ni Jed yung buhok ng kapatid kaya nainis si Fei sa kuya niya. “Mama! Look at
kuya Jed! He acts so childish!”
“Stop it! both of you!” saway ni mama. “Jed maupo kana.” To surprise me, he seat
beside me.
Bigla akong kinabahan. Hindi naman ito yung unang pagkakataon na makatabi ko sa
upuan si Jed pero hindi ko maintindihan yung nararamdaman ko. ang hirap
iapaliwanag.
Natapos na akong kumain. “Mama, una na po ako...” paalam ko.
“C’mon hija, sumabay ka na kay Jed.” I was about to stand up but mama offers it.
“Is there any problem with that Jed?” she added.
Napatingin ako kay Jed. Kumakain parin siya. Bigla akong kinabahan. Kinakabahan
akong malaman yung sagot ni Jed. What could be his answer? Will he say yes?
“There’s no problem with that. Unless, nagmamadali siya. I’m not yet finish eating
my breakfast.” Tila sumabog yung puso ko. nagdidiwang yung puso ko sa sinabi ni
Jed. Eto ang unang beses na makakasabay ko siya Pagpasok sa school. Masayang masaya
ako ngayon.
Hinintay ko siyang Matapos kumain. Ihinanda ko na yung pack lunches na dadalhin ko

sa school. One for me, for Patrick... and for Jed. Bigla nanaman akong kinabahan.
Kakainin niya kaya ‘tong pack lunch na ginawa ko?
Sumakay na kami sa kotse. Black na Montero ang sasakyan ni Jed. At first time kong
Sumakay sa sasakyan niya. Mayroon naman akong sariling sasakyan kaya hindi kami
nagkakasabay ni Jed, Mini Cooper na kulay pink lang.
Kinakabahan ako. Pinaupo kasi ako ni mama sa passenger seat. Hindi ko alam ang
gagawin ko. makakapag kuwentuhan kaya kami? But then, will I build up a
conversation?
He starts the engine. We are on our way to school. He stop the car due to the
traffic. Bakit ngayon pa nagkaroon ng traffic?
Ilang minuto na kaming hindi nagsasalita. Ano naman ang sasabihin ko? sobrang
kinakabahan talaga ako. Sa bintana lang ako nakatingin. Nahihiya akong tinganan
siya.
“Bakit parang ang dami mo namang dalang pack lunch? Too hungry?” he suddenly
uttered.
Biglang umadar yung sasakyan. Nagulat ako. Kinausap niya ako. Bigla nanamang
bumilis yung tibok ng puso ko.
“Ah, yung isa para sa akin. Yung isa naman para kay Patrick. Request niya ‘to
parati...” napangiti kong sabi. Hindi ko mapigilang hindi itago yung saya ko ng
tanungin ako ni Jed.
“Kaya pala...” mahinang sabi ni Jed. Napatingin ako sa kanya. His eyes were focus
on the road. He look so serious while driving.
After that, nabalot nanaman ng katahimikan yung loob ng sasakyan. Only the music
from his car ang nadirinig ko. nawala yung kaba ko, napalitan ito ng lungkot.
Looks like he’s not interested that much about my pack lunch. Maibibigay ko pa kaya
‘tong ihinanda kong lunch para sa kanya?
Nakarating na kami ng school. Hindi ko alam kung papano ko ibibigay sa kanya itong
lunch box. Bumababa na kami ng sasakyan. He never even bother to carry my things or
wait me. nasa parking lot kami ngayon. Hinigpitan ko yung pagkakahawak ko sa lunch
box. Kinakabahan ako but I’ll give it a try.
“Uhh, Jed!” he stops and look back at me. tumakbo ako papalapit sa kanya.
“Here...” iniabot ko sa kanya yung lunch box. Kinuha naman niya na nagtataka.
“Akala ko ba yung isa sayo then yung isa kay Pat? Why are you giving this to me?”
“Naparami yung niluto ko kanina, I know... you don’t like pack lunch at school pero
naisip kong gawan ka today. So I hope you like it. sige bye...” sabay takbo ko
palayo.
I don’t wanna hear his rejection about my pack lunch. Lalo akong makakaramdam ng
lungkot.
But maybe I guess I was wrong...
“Leila!” I heard Jed’s calling my name so I look back at him.
Iniangat niya yung lunch box na bigay ko. “Thanks for this.” Then he smiles. It
makes my heart beats so fast. I feel so happy. I smile back at him.
“And for the Chicken Curry last night. Sorry, late akong umuwi kagabi.” it made me
even happier. Gusto kong umiyak sa sobrang saya. Dahil sa unang pagkakataon...
He smiles at me, Jed really smile at me...
Sana, pwede lang i-record ang pangyayaring ‘to. kung panaginip man ang lahat ng
ito, I wish it would stay like this forever.
I walk backwards so that I can still see him standing in there. at nung makalayo na
ako, humarap na ako sa daraanan ko at tumakbo na ng tuluyan papuntang class room.
Pagdating ko ng room, una kong nakita si Chester at Charlotte. I smile at them
kahit nasa malayo pa lang ako. Umupo ako sa gitna nilang dalawa kung saan may
vacant chair. The look puzzled while looking at me. They’re acting so weird.
Nagtataka tuloy akong napatingin sa kanilang dalawa.
“Bakit? May dumi ba ako sa mukha?” tanong ko.
“Wala naman friend! Pero kasi...” kunot noong sabi ni Charlotte. “Kasi parang ibang
yung aura mo today gurl! You look so blooming today!” high note namang sabi ni
Chester.
Napangiti ako sa sinabi nung mag pinsan. “Talaga?”
“Korak!” sabay nilang sabi.
Siguro dahil yun sa mga sinabi ni Jed kanina. He even thank me for the lunch box,
and he even say sorry about last night. At masaya akong kinain pala ni Jed yung
niluto ko kagabi. It makes my day happy.
It’s already lunch break.
Kumakain na kami nila Charlotte pero wala parin si Patrick. *sigh* mukhang hindi
yata sasabay sa amin ngayon yung mokong na yon sa pagkain.
“Aww, mukhang waley si fafa Pats today ahhh!” sabi naman ni Chester.
“Uyy, nami-miss ni Chan si Patrick!” pangaasar naman ni Charlotte. Napangiti ako sa

kanilang dalawa.
“Hindi ah! Nanghihinayang lang ako sa niluto kong pack lunch para sa kanya.” Sabi
ko.
“Eeehh, bakit di mo na lang ibigay kay fafa Jed!?” suggest ni Chester. It made me
smile again.
I remember what happened this morning. “He already have one...” mahina kong sabi.
Nagkatinginan yung magpinsan at nanlaki ang mga mata. “WHAT?” they both uttered.
Tumungo-tango na lang ako. Hindi parin sila makapaniwala, even me still cannot
believe it. “Magkasabay kaming pumasok kanina. then I made a pack lunch for him.”
Kuwento ko.
“Ayyyeeeeiiii!” hindi maitago nung dalawa yung kasiyahan na nararamdaman nila para
sa akin. It made me even happier kaysa kaninang umaga kasi alam kong may natutuwa
para sa akin.
“Gumaganon ka the ha! Pak!” ani Chester.
“Wait!” sabi naman ni Charlotte. Napatingin tuloy kami ni Chester sa kanya. “Is
that Patrick?” turo niya.
Sinundan namin ng tingin yung way ng hintuturo ni Charlotte. It is true it is

Patrick at naglalakad siya papunta sa puwesto namin.
“Sorry! Late ako!” paghingi ng tawad ni Patrick.
“Hay naku fafa Pats! Bakit ngayon ka lang! Papatapos na kaming kumain! Di ka tuloy
naging ulam sa eyes koooo!” sita naman ni Chester.
“eh, busy kasi ngayon. Ang daming requirements.” Then he sit beside me.
Iniabot ko sa kanya yung pack lunch niya. “Oh eto...”
“Wow! Mukhang masarap ‘to ah! The best ka talaga Lei!” papuri ni Patrick. Inilagay
niya yung pack lunch sa loob ng bag niya. “Sige, hindi ako makakasabay sa inyo.
Kinuha ko lang tong baon ko. Salamt Lei!” sabay takbo palabas ng canteen.
“Hmmmp! Nakakatampo naman si fafa Pats oh! Di pa ako Busog na sumilay sa

kagawaouhan niya eeehhh!” pagmamaktol ni Chester.
“Wala tayong magagawa, g-graduate na sila next sem eh!” sabi naman ni Charlotte.
Then naisip ko, si Jed... graduate na rin next sem.

Natapos na yung klase. I was half way papuntang parking area ng maalala kong hindi
ko nga pala dala yung sasakyan ko. so naglakad ako pabalik ng room. I was hoping
kung Nandoon pa yung magpinsan, balak ko sanang sumabay sa kanila paguwi.
But it surprised me to see Jed walking in front of me... with another girl.
Nakapulupot yung arms nung girl sa braso ni Jed. Bigla akong nakaramdam ng lungkot
at kaba. Habang papalapit sila sa akin, pabilis ng pabilis ang tibok ng puso ko. I
can’t even move a muscle sa kinatatayuan ko. para akong napako at hindi makaalis.
Jed, along with that girl stop in front of me. Nanginginig na ako. Parang
Nanghihina yung mga tuhod ko.
“J-jed...” sambit ko sa pangalan niya.
Napatingin ako doon sa babaeng kasama ni Jed. She was looking at me as if I was an
enemy to her. Hinigpitan pa niya ang pagkakahawak kay Jed.
Ibinaling ko naman yung tingin ko kay Jed. I don’t know why pero... hindi siya
nakatingin sa akin, nakatingin siya sa ibang direksyon.
“Who’s this girl Jed? Do you know her?” tanong nung babae. Napatingin si Jed doon
sa babaeng kasama niya but he still does not looking at me.
Naninikip na ang dibdib ko sa sobrang sakit ng nararamdaman ko. Napahawak ako sa

kanang bahagi ng dibdib ko. sobrang sakit ng nararamdaman ko ngayon.
What will I say? Sasabihin ko bang akong ang asawa ni Jed?
O tatakbo na lang ako palayo?
Nagtatalo ang isipan ko. Random of thoughts came out from my head...
Siya ba yung tinutukoy ni Jed noon? Is she the girl that he loves so much kaya
hindi niya ako kayang mahalin?
Gusto ko nang umiyak. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko.
I walk backwards from them. That girl, she was looking at me while holding my
husband so tight. It made me feel so jealous.
“Oh, nandito ka lang pala... kanina pa kita hinahanap babe!” nagulat ako nang may
humawak sa balikat ko. It’s Patrick.
He was referring to me as babe.
“Oh! Patrick! Who is that girl? Is she your girlfriend?” tanong nung babae.
Hinawakan ako ni Patrick sa waist and pull me closer to him. “Hindi ko pa nga pala
siya naipapakilala sa inyo...”
“She’s Leila, my girlfriend...”

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----------------------------------------------------
Never fail his/her expectations. Even if he/she doesn’t show that he/she expects
something, do all the best you can do for him/her... surely, it will make him/her
happy.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------
Anne's Letter:
Hello readers! SUPER SORRY ang bagal ng Update koooo! >/\< busy po talaga sa
school. It's already sembreak but I can't feel though -__-
Babawi ako kapag lumuwag ang schedule ko. So for now eto na muna, I hope you like
it guys! *cross fingies*
And btw, I dedicated this Chapter to GeaArra! Hello! *kaway kaway* Thanks for the
message! :"> I hope you like this one ;)
and I also like to Thank those who made a comment sa last update ko. I'm really
happy na may nag comment and so far they were all good feed backs about the story.
(I hope I can reach your expectations though.) Salamat din pala sa lahat ng nag add
sa RL nila sa story ko na 'to. Sorry, hindi ko na kayo masendan ng message
personally sa MB niyo kasi hindi ko na nasundan yung mga nag add sa RL nila but I
really want to Thank all of your who like this story! =))
hehe, ayokong maglintanya but I'm grateful dahil may nagbabasa at nakaka-appreciate
ng story na 'to kahit mabagal akong mag update. Thank you for understanding me!
TT^TT
Enjoy reading!
God bless~!
ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 4
Chapter 4:
“She’s Leila, my girlfriend...”
Hindi ko alam kung anong ire-react ko. I was frustrated and out of my mind. Hindi
ko na alam kung anong nangyayari. All I know is... there is someone who’s holding
Jed’s arms. And it’s not me...
“Oh! I thought you are a-- err, never mind. Hi! I’m Amanda! Nice to meet you
Leila!” bati niya sa akin, but she did not bent for her hands. Instead, she just
wave at me.
My mind was lost. Hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko...
“So,” hinawakan ako ni Patrick sa magkabilang balikat. “It was nice to see you guys
here, pero may date pa kami ngayon ni Lei so we got to go. See you around guys!”
then hinawakan niya yung kamay ko at hinila palayo sa lugar na ‘yon.
“Who’s this girl Jed? Do you know her?”

Ang daming thoughts na sumsagi sa isipan ko. Naninikip ang dibdib ko. Tila hindi
ako makahinga. I didn’t realize na tumigil na pala kami sa paglalakad ni Patrick.
“I’m sorry for what I’ve said kanina Leila!” pagpapaumanhin ni Patrick. I was just
looking at him. He looks so worried at me.
Unti-unting napuno ng luha yung mga mata ko kaya tila nanlalabo na ang paningin ko.
“I’m sorry Leila...” then he hug me. I can’t stop from crying. Kanina ko pa kasi
gustong umiyak.
Ang ganda na kanina ng simula ng umaga ko. Bakit babalik nanaman sa pagiging
miserable? Why do I have to be hurt like that? Will I never be happy?
Will I never be happy loving Jed?
After kong maka-recover sa mga pangyayari, Patrick lead me back to my classroom. I

already stop from crying... but my heart is still in pain.
Nasa harapan ko ngayon si Chester at Charlotte. Tahimik na nakatingin lang sa akin.

Masaya akong nandito sila sa tabi ko at alam kong may kaibigan akong masasandalan
sa mga ganitong pangyayari... like he was before...
Hinawakan ni Charlotte yung kamay ko at ngumiti. Hindi ko na napigilang lumuha

ulit. I was in such deep pain right now. I really don’t know how I will be going to
be okay.
If I can chose whom will I love... I guess... I’ll never gonna hurt like this.
“He was... back then... my only friend...” I cried
“He was the only one who’s there for me...” I added.
Way back on my childhood days, I’ve been bullied by my classmates.
Dahil hindi ako pure Chinese. I’ve been experience bullying then, my classmates
were all Chinese—pure Chinese. They always look at me like I was never belonged
with them. Sa isang international school ako nag aral na kung saan puro Chinese
students ang nag aaral. Mabibilang mo lang yung hindi Chinese. They we’re accepted
there due to the influence, power and money that the names of each child brought
them.
I was one of those children...
I was called the bad luck in our family. Hindi kasi ako pure Chinese at anak lang
ako sa isang Filipina. My mom died after she gave me birth. I never got to see any
picture of her. Pangalawa ako sa aming magkakapatid na babae. We have an elder
brother. I was the only one who bares the half blood. They were all pure blood.
Though I’m different to my brothers and sisters, they treated me as their sister.
On the contrary, my Grandmother (my dad’s mother) looks at me as an outsider. My
grandma says that I’ll bring bad fortune in our family.
At para makaiwas sa malas, ipinakasal nila ako sa business partner nila. Para na
rin hindi kumalat ang pera ng dalawang pamilya. For my Grandparents, they treated
me as an instrument to bind a business contracts. I was only 7 years old nang
mamatay ang Dad ko. Though it’s a short time for the two of us, naramdaman ko ang
pagmamahal ng isang ama.
When I was 8 I didn’t realize that I will met my prince.
Simula pagka bata ay binu-bully na ako. I’d never got to have a friend. But I met
him...
Jed Sy, he’s one of my schoolmates when I was in grade school. I was grade one
while he was on grade three. I’ve got bullied often and most of the time I was the
laughingstock at our school. A half Chinese who doesn’t know the traditions,
language, and not even an heir of the family. But one day, Jed stand by my side and
became my shield to those people who look down on me.
I can still remember those times.

It’s recess that time. I was alone at the swing. No one wants me to be with me...
nobody dares to talk to me.
“Nǐ zěnme néng zài zhèlǐ dúshū ma?” [How can you study here?] suddenly, someone
stands in front of me.
Tatlong batang babae. Hindi ko maintindihan ang sinasabi nila, although mayroon
kaming Mandarin class hindi parin ako ganoon bihasa... I only know the basics.
“Nǐ shì bùshì zhōngguó rén!” [You’re not a Chinese!] dagdag pa nung isa.
“Huòqǔ shīqù de guài tāi! Nǐ bù shǔyú zhèlǐ!” [Get lost freak! You are not belong
here!] at sabay sabay silang Nagtawanan.
Wala akong maintindihan sa mga sinasabi nila. I looked down and feel sad. Nobody
wants to be with me.
Unti-unting dumami ang tao sa paligid ko. lahat sila pinagtatawanan ako. Gusto kong
ipagtanggol ang sarili ko pero hindi ko alam kung papano. Natatakot ako... wala
akong magawa kundi ang tumungo.
“Guàiwù!” [Freak!]
It echoes in my head all over and over... I can’t stand it anymore... I want to
defend myself from everybody.
When someone suddenly...

“Tíngzhǐ ba!” [stop it!]
Biglang tumigil ang lahat ng mga bata sa paligid ko sa pag tawa. When I look up,
someone’s standing in front of me.
Nag alisan na lahat ng bata. Na naiwan ako at yung batang lalaking nasa harapan ko.
Humarap siya sa akin and kneel down. “Are you okay?” he asked.
Hindi ko alam pero bigla na lang akong umiyak. Umiyak ako ng umiyak noong mga
panahon na ‘yon...
Then he taps my head. “Hayaan mo na sila, nandito lang ako sa tabi mo. Di kita
iiwan, promise.”
Those words... it made me stop from crying. That guy is Jed...
Nang kumalma na ako... ihinatid ako ni Charlotte at Chester pauwi. Pinapasok ko

sila sa loob ng bahay para ipakilala na rin kay Mama.
“Kalerki ka Chan! Ang laki naman ng bahay ng in-laws mooo! Booongggaa!” manghang-
manghang sabi ni Chester.
“Abu ka ba Ches! Napaka ingay mo! Baka mapagkamalan tayong taong bundok niyan ha!
Hmp!” pagsaway naman ni Charlotte sa pinsan.
Papasok na kami sa loob mismo ng bahay nang biglang bumukas ang pinto. It was mama.
“Oh Lei! Bakit parang namamaga ang mata mo? Umiyak ka ba?” pagaalalang sabi ni
mama.
Ngumiti ako. “Hindi po mama, Napuwing lang po.” Napansin kong napatingin ito sa
likuran ko kung nasaan si Chester at Charlotte. “Sila nga po pala yung mga kaibigan
ko sa school... si Chester at Charlotte.” Pakilala ko sa mag pinsan.
“Ay! Hello po tita! Ang ganda ganda niyo po!” papuri naman ni Chester kay mama.
“Naku! Bolero naman itong kaibigan mo!” kinikilig na sabi ni mama.
“Ay tita, bolera po. Hindi bolero. Isa po akong dyosa!” proud pang sabi ni Chester.
Nagtawanan kaming lahat.
“Oh sya, pumasok kayo rito sa loob! Ipaghahanda ko kayo ng makakain.” Tuwang-tuwang
sabi ni mama.
Pinaupo ko sila sa sofa habang hinhintay yung ipinahandang pagkain ni mama.

Masayang nakikipag kuwentuhan si mama kay Chester at Charlotte.
“Naku! Masayang masaya ako at may kaibigan na naidala dito itong si Leila! Nung
bata kasi ‘to hindi ko alam kung may kaibigan ba siya sa school niya.” Pagsasaad ni
mama.
“Naku! Eh napakabait po at maaalalahanin na kaibigan yang si Leila. At masarap pa

pong magluto!” papuri sa akin ni Charlotte. Napangiti ako sa sinabi niya, ngayon
lang kasi ako nagkaroon ng kaibigan sa tana ng buhay ko. at sobrang saya ko.
Dumating na yung pagkain, marami pang napagkuwentuhan sina Mama. Nagtawanan lang
kaming lahat dahil sa mga kuwento at patawa ni Chester.
“Bumalik kayo dito ulit ha? Nakakatuwa talaga kayong mga kabataan ngayon...” tuwang
tuwang sabi ni Mama. Masaya ako at masaya ngayon si mama dahil nakakilala ako ng
mga kaibigan. Kahit papano, nawala ang sakit na nararamdaman ko ngayon.
“Ah eh, tita? pwede po ba naming isama ngayon si Chan?” paalam ni Chester.
Nagulat ako nang biglang sabihin niya ‘yon. Hindi ko alam ang planong ‘yon. Pero
nakita ko ang ngiti ni mama. “That’s great! Sige, isama niyo si Leila at nang
makalabas naman siya at makapag saya!” tuwang tuwang sabi ni mama.
Nagbihis muna ako bago kami umalis ng bahay. Masayang-masaya si Mama at mayroon
akong dalawang kaibigang naipakilala sa kanya. Sumakay na kami sa kotse ni
Charlotte. Hindi ko alam kung saan kami pupunta.
“Saan ba tayo pupunta?” usisa ko. nakaupo ako sa back seat habang si Chester naman
ang nasa passenger seat at si Charlotte ang nag d-drive.
“Basta, gusto naming mawala naman kahit saglit lang yung nararamdaman mo. Alam
naming masakit para sayo yun. Kaya gusto ka naming mapasaya..” sabi ni Charlotte
habang nag d-drive.
Napangiti ako sa sinabi niya. Ganito pala ang pakiramdam kapag mayroong kaibigan...
may karamay ka sa nararamdaman mong sakit. Kahit papano, gumagaan ang pakiramdam
ko.
Dinala nila ako sa isang salon.
“Anong gagawin natin dito?” tanong ko nang paupuin nila ako sa harap ng salamin.
“MAKE OVER!” sabay nilang sabi.
“H-ha? Eh hindi ko naman kailangan nun! A-ayoko!” nagpupumilit akong tumayo doon sa
upuan pero pinipigilan ako ng magpinsan.
“No Leila Chan-Sy! It’s time for you to relax and feel like a queen! Since when did
you visit a salon and pampered yourself?” tanong ni Charlotte.
Hindi ko sinasagot ang tanong niya. Ayoko ng mga ganitong bagay. Hindi ako sanay.
“C’mon sis! We just want you to relief from stress! Malay mo, baka dahil dito
mapansin ka ni fafa Jed!” encourage ni Chester.
Natigilan ako doon. Will it make him notice me?
If I do so... will he notice me as his wife? Will he finally see me through his
eyes?
Something throbs in my heart, tells me to do this...
“S-sige. Pumapayag na ako.”
They start with my hair... they trim it. Then we go on a hair treatment. After
that, we proceed to facial... then massage... foot spa... manicure... my whole has
been pampered. And they applied make up on my face.
“OH EHM GEE! Chan! You look so stunning!” papuri ni Chester.
“Now, let’s go to the mall!” aya naman ni Charlotte.
“T-teka! Ano namang gagawin natin sa mall??” nasabi ko habang hinhila ako ni
Cahrlotte palabas ng salon.
“Basta! Sumama ka na lang!”
Hindi ako mapakali. Maga-alasingko na rin kasi. Baka dumating na si Jed ng bahay,
gusto ko siyang makita... gusto kong tanungin yung tungkol sa kanina...
Wala na akong nagawa pa. hinila nila ako Papasok ng kotse at Dinala sa mall.
Nasa isang boutique kami ngayon at namimili ng mga damit.
“Hmm... ano ba sa dalawang ‘to??” namimili si Chester ng mga damit. “Chan! Try this
one dali!” he uttered.
Hinila niya ako papuntang dressing room. I take it off from the hanger at isinuot
ito. I look from the mirror. I can’t believe myself that it is me who’s standing in
front. I never got the chance to look in the mirror and praised myself but this
time...
“I look so beautiful with this dress...”
“CHHAAANN! Tapos ka na ba?” nadinig kong tinatawag na ako ni Chester.
“Ah, oo!”
“Daliii! Labasa ka na jan sis! Gusto kong makita!” excited yung tono ng boses niya.
Lumabas na ako. Nakita ko si Chester na nakatayo at hinihintay ako.
“OH MY GOSH! You look so gorgeous!” papuri nito.
“Hindi ko alam na ang ganda pala ng figure moo gurl! Kalerki ka!” sabi pa ni
Chester.
Hindi ko rin alam sa sarili ko... I’d never been dress up like this before.
The gold stones and sequences of the dress with a blue ribbon at the edge top of
it. this is a tube one and it’s above the knee. It’s kinda revealing but it looks
so elegant.
“My God! You look so gorgeous Chan! Naku! I-try mo na ‘tong mga ‘to dali!”
pinagaabot sa akin ni Charlotte yung mga hawak niyang damit.
Halos isang oras din yata kaming nagsusukat ng damit. Lahat ‘yon ay binili namin.
Pinasuot nila sa akin yung una kong sinukat.
Hindi ko alam pero hindi ako komportableng isuot ito sa harapan ng maraming tao.
Pakiramdam ko pinagtitinginan nila ako at Ayoko ng ganoong pakiramdam.
“Anuka ba gurl! Chin up! Gayahin mo ang peg ko! proud sa sarili!” sabi naman ni
Chester habang naglalakad kami.
“Eh Nakakahiya kasi. Tingnan niyo, pinagtitinginan ako ng tao!” hiyang hiyang sabi
ko.
“Ano ka ba Chan! Kaya sila nakatingin sayo kasi ang ganda-ganda mo!” Charlotte
utter.
“T-talaga?” may pagaalinlangan ako.
Tumango lang sila at Dinala naman nila ako sa isang Shoe shop.
“Eto sukat mo ‘to!” sabi ni Charlotte.
Tiningnan ko yung sapatos na pinapasukat niya sa akin. It’s kindda high. Hindi ko
alam kung ilang inches but I’m not into wearing this kind of shoes. I only wear
flat ones.
“Baka naman matapilok ako niyan.” Sabi ko.
“Hindi! Please Chan! I-try mo naaaa!” pagmamaktol ni Charlotte.
Hindi ako makatangi. So I decided to wear it. well, it fits to me.. it’s a gold
pump shoes. Bumagay siya sa damit na suot ko. pero hindi ko alam kung gaano katagal
akong makakalakad suot ang sapatos na ‘to.
Binili na namin yung sapatos. Pinasuot din nila sa akin yung sapatos.
We’re on the road. I don’t have any clue where we are going. It’s almost dark. I
wanna go home and prepare dinner for Jed. Just to think of it how stupid I am...
loving someone who cant see me thru... loving Jed is the most painful thing I ever
do.
Nagpark kami sa isang bar.
“Anong ginagawa natin dito?” tanong ko kay Charlotte at Chester.
“We’re gonna have some fun sis! You know, drinks... dancing...” sabi ni Chester.
Hindi pa ako nakakapasok sa isang bar. I don’t know what it looks like at kung
anong ginagawa ng mga tao sa loob.
Bumaba na ako ng sasakyan. Natatakot ako... it feels like I’m going to enter a new
world.
Napansin ko na lang na nauna nang naglalakad Papasok yung magpinsan.
“Chan! Tara na sa loob!” aya nila sa akin.
Huminga ako ng malalim at naglakad papunta sa kanila.
I don’t know what I am doing right now pero... gusto kong mawala yung lungkot na
nararamdaman ko ngayon. Gusto ko lang makalimot kahit ngayong gabi lang...
Pagpasok sa loob... may kakaibang atmosphere akong naramdaman. Kakaibang

pakiramdam... the lights went dim. The disco ball is same as the stars glittering
the dance floor. Ang daming tao sa paligid. Some were dancing... some were
drinking... and some were making out. It’s dark to see clear things here.
Umupo kami sa counter.

“Blue Lagoon tatlo.” Sabi ni Charlotte.
Nag mix naman ng drinks yung bar tender. I roam my eyes around the new place I see.
All I can see is dark and colourful lights. The noise of the loud music. Everything
is new.
“We’re sorry we bring you here Chan...” sabi ni Charlotte.
I smile. “Okay lang. gusto kong makalimot kahit ngayon lang...” hinawakan ko yung
kamay ni Charlotte. “Thanks for this day...”
I look into her eyes pero umiwas siya ng tingin. It made me worried a bit.
“you see... Chan, we want the best for you as your friend. Ayaw ka naming
nasasaktan at nagpapaka martir jan kay Jed...” sabi nito. Hindi ko maintindihan...
ano bang sinasabi niya?
“So we decided to bring you here...” Chester added.
“At Jed’s world...” sabi ni Charlotte.
Ano? Jed’s world?
So... dito pala nagpupunta si Jed tuwing gabi? Kaya siya lagging lasing? Is he one
of these people?
Hindi ko alam... napakarami ko pa palang hindi alam sa asawa ko. it feels like I am
not part of his world. I’m miles away from him...
Kinuha ko yung isang basong cocktail na in-order ni Charlotte. I drink it straight.

This is the first time I drink. It taste like bitter with a mixture of sweetness.
Like what I am feeling right now.
“Please, I need harder than this...” nasabi ko.

Iniabot sa akin nung lalaki yung order ko. but Charlotte suddenly holds my hand...
“No Chan, please... don’t drown yourself with this drinks. We just want you to
realize something. We just want you to know the truth.”
“H-hindi ko maintindihan Charlotte. I don’t understand everything! Akala ko ba

we’re here to have some fun?” medyo napataas ang tono ng boses ko.
Biglang lumapit sa amin si Chester. Hindi ko alam na umalis pala ito.
May ibinulong ito kay Charlotte pero hindi ko alam kung ano. It made them look so
serious at me... it made me scared.
“Leila...” then she holds my hand. “You need to see this.”
Then hinila niya ako palayo doon sa kinauupuan ko. Dinala niya ako papunta sa dance
floor.
I was about to ask Charlotte where are we going but then my feet got nailed on the
floor when I saw him.
Hindi ako makagalaw sa kinatatayuan ko. just like what I feel kanina sa parking
lot. But this time, it’s more painful...
I can see Jed dancing on the dance floor with another girl. It makes my heart feels
more pain like kanina. I can’t breathe... seeing him like this. Napaatras ako...
then naramdaman kong may natapakan akong paa mula sa likod ko. nagulat ako nang
makita kong si Patrick pala yun. He looks so serious.
Hinawakan niya yung braso ko at hinila palapit sa kanya.
My eyes again caught Jed... tears run down as I watch him... kissing a girl which
is not me.
Bakit ganun? Totoo ba yung nakita ko? Was that really Jed?
Hindi ko na namalayan... hinhila na pala ako ni Patrick palayo doon. Nakarating

kami sa labas ng bar. Iyak lang ako ng iyak. Sobrang sakit... at patagal ng patagal
lalong sumasakit.
Bigla akong niyakap ni Patrick. “I’m sorry Lei...” he said those words so many
times this day.
It made me remember the first time we met. Bigla akong natawa at kumalas sa
pagkakayakap sa kanya.
“Ano ba yan... dati ako yung humihinga ng sorry sa’yo... ngayon, ikaw naman ang
humihinga ng sorry sa akin for no reason.” Then I forced my laugh to remove my
tears.
Pinunasan ko yung luha ko. I look at Patrick and smile. “Everything’s going to be
fine. Don’t worry about me.” at naglakad na ako pabalik ng bar.
Hindi ko alam pero para akong tangang bumalik pa sa loob ng bar at makita yung
lalaking mahal ko na masaya sa piling ng iba. Napaka tanga ko nga siguro... pero
mahal ko talaga siya kaya kahit ano pamang panloloko ang gawin niya, iintindihin
ko. uunawain ko siya hanggang sa dumating yung panahong mamahalin niya rin ako
kataumbas ng pagmamahal ko sa kanya.
Bumalik ako sa counter at umorder ng maiinom.
“Chan... hindi ka namin Dinala dito para maglasing... tama na.” awat ni Charlotte.
I really don’t know that this how alcohol tastes like. It covers the pain I’m
feeling right now. It drowns me.
“Please... let me... just diz ones... I want to forget everything.” Then ininom ko
yung natitira sa baso ko. “I want to ease the pain I’m feeling right now...”
Tumayo ako. Mejo nahihilo ako... para akong umikot ng maraming beses ng di umalis
sa posisyon ko. My feet leads me to the dance floor.
“Hi! Are you alone pretty lady?” may biglang kumausap sa akin.
I know I’m still conscious. But I’m really dizzy. “Let’s dance!” hinila ko yung
lalaki papunta sa gitna ng dance floor.
I know what I am doing. I’m feeling wild and crazy.
Biglang hinapit nung lalaki ang bewang ko papalapit sa kanya... he’s about to kiss
me when someone suddenly holds my hand.
It makes my heart beat so fast...
“Don’t you dare touch my wife...”
Everything went blurred.
------------------------------
Nagising na lang ako nasa kama na ako. Ang sakit sa mata ng sikat ng araw.
Nakaramdam din ako ng sakit ng ulo. Ano bang mga nangyari kagabi? Hindi ko na
maalala yung mga nangyari kagabi... pero ang alam ko lang... nakita ko si Jed
kissing someone.
Bigla nanaman akong nakaramdam ng kirot sa puso ko.

Nagulat ako nang bumukas yung pintuan ng kwarto. It’s Jed.
May hawak siyang tray ng pagkain. Naglakad siya papalapit sa akin at umupo sa gilid
ng kama.
Anong ginagawa niya dito?
Pinagmasdan ko lang siyang ihain sa harapan ko yung pagkain.
“Anong bang nasa isip mo at nag inom ka kagabi? Kelan ka pang natutong pumunta ‘don
at maglasing?” galit na sabi ni Jed. Napatungo ako.
I remembered. Nakipagsayaw ako sa dance floor with a stranger and was about to kiss
me but someone suddenly grabbed me and take away... I remember it was Jed.
“Anong ginagawa mo pa dito?” tanong ko.
Tiningnan niya ako ng masama. “Ha?”
“It’s Saturday. Diba may training ka ngayon?” I said.
Yes. May training siya ngayon sa office. Nagt-train ngayon si Jed para maging CEO
ng kumpanya.
“Nag absent ako...” then iniabot niya sa akin yung gamot. “Inumin mo yan, pampawala
ng hang over.” He added.
I take the medicine. Then inabutan niya ako ng isang basong tubig at ininom ko.
“Kumain ka na...” he said. I follow his order.
It made me feel so awkward. Nahihiya ako sa insal ko yet nasasaktan akong nakikita
ko ngayon si Jed the fact that I saw him with another girl last night.
Gusto ko siyang tanungin... gusto kong ilabas lahat ng itinatago kong nararamdaman
but I don’t have the guts to do that.
Nang Matapos na akong kumain, iniligpit na ni Jed yung pinagkainan ko.
“Magpahinga ka na muna. Tawagin mo na lang sila manang kung may kailangan ka.”
Akmang palabas na ng pintuan si Jed.
I act so crazy... I hug him from his back.
It makes my heart beats so fast. Hindi ko alam kung bakit ko ginawa yun... hindi ko
alam kung bakit ko siya niyayakap ngayon. Dapat... dapat nagagalit ako sa kanya
ngayon pero bakit parang wala akong kakayahang magalit sa kanya? Why do I still
love him? Why does my heart still keeps on beating when I’m with him?
Hinigpitan ko yung pagkakayakap ko sa kanya... “I love you Jed.” Mahina kong sabi.
Naramdaman kong hinawakan niya yung kamay ko. but he tries to release it from
locking on him.
“I’m sorry Leila...”
That’s all he said to me. lumabas na siya ng kuwarto ko. Naiwan akong mag-isa.
Ang sakit-sakit.
Bakit hindi mo ako kayang mahalin Jed?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
Loving someone who doesn’t love you back is like hugging a cactus.
The tighter you hold on... the more it hurts.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
Anne's Letter:
HAHAHA! Nagsasawa na ba kayo kasi lagi akong may letter/ note sa dulo? Lels, rush
update poooo! :DD
Sana magustuhan niyo! :D
Magiging busy nanaman tayo mga waterproofs! if you know what I mean!? XDD
tapos na ang sem break! Back to school na ulit next week! HAHA! Walang pahinga! T^T
nag rush ako ng update kasi baka sa isang buwan na ulit ako makapag ud? Di ko sure
kasi magiging busy ako ngayon semester. Please, bare with me po. I have two majors
this sem kaya kailangan kong magseryoso. ^____^
btw, multimedia on the side

------------------------------------------------------------------------->>>
si Leila Chan-Sy with her dress na pinasuot ni Chester at Charlotte. ^_____^
Oh and one more thing... If you're gonna ask me about the Mandarin language...
hindi po ako marunong magsalita ng Chinese! >___< hehe.. I google translator it :))
Anyways, if you like the update CLICK THE STAR/VOTE. SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS. AND
LEAVE ME A COMMENT =DD
It'll be a pleasure to read your comments guys! :))
Bye! See you on my next update! ;)
God bless!
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 5
Chapter 5:
AN: This is a third person’s POV. Sa chapter na ‘to niyo malalaman yung mga
kaganapan na hindi sakop ng point of view ni Leila. Since it is a third person’s
POV, I’m the one who’s narrating the events. :)
“Yes...” sabi ni Amanda kay Jed.
Noong una ay hindi pa maintindihan nang binata ang mensahe ng dalaga sa kanya. Nasa
loob sila ng classroom. Magkatabi ng upuan habang ang iba nilang k-klase ay hindi
sila pinapansin.
“What do you mean by yes?” curious na tanong ni Jed.
Napangiti si Amanda at humarap kay Jed. “I said yes! Sinasagot na kita!” sabay
hawak sa pisngi nito.
Hindi alam ni Jed kung ano ang ir-react niya sa sagot ng dalaga. Matagal na kasi
niya itong nililigawan at hindi niya inaasahang bigla na lamang, out of the blue ay
magbibitiw ito ng ganoong salita sa kanya.
“Really?” hinawakan ni Jed ang kamay ni Amanda na nakalapat sa kanyang pisngi.

Ngumiti lang si Amanda.
Si Amanda Lu, isang sikat na business entrepreneur at fashion designer. Kilala siya
sa business world dahil at the very young age ay successful na ito at may sarili
nang clothing line na sikat sa panlasa ng mga kababaihan.
“My gosh Jed, I really can’t believe after our graduation you’ll be handling your
family’s own business.” Ngumiti ito at hinawakan ang kamay ni Jed. “You should be
proud and treasure that reputation. It’ll be a disgrace for me as well you know...”
Alam ni Jed na pinahahalagahan ni Amanda ang reputation nito sa mata ng publiko

kaya isang malaking kahihiyan kung ang magiging boyfriend na ay isang walang
kuwentang tao. Career and ambition ang highest priority ni Amanda higit sa lahat.
Nawala ang ngiti sa mga labi ni Jed nang maalala ang asawa.
“Are you really sure about this Amanda?” pagaalalang tanong ni Jed dito.
“What do you mean?” naguguluhang tanong nito.
“You know that I’m already married.” Simpleng sabi ni Jed.
Yes, umpisa pa lang ay alam na ni Amanda na may asawa na si Jed. But it doesn’t
pressure her a lot. She didn’t even damn care about Jed’s wife. All she cares about
is her love for the guy.
“Remember what I’ve said to you before?” she grins at him. “Flirt who ever b*tch
you want... date whoever you want to... but when it’s our time, just only the two
of us.” Then she gives a peck on his lips.
Ganoon ang pagiisip ni Amanda. Wala siyang pakielam kung sinu-sino pang mga babae
sa paligid ang flings ni Jed but the rule is... kapag oras nilang dalawa, sa
kanilang dalawa lamang. But this time, it’s different. Now that Amanda seems to
proclaimed as his officially girlfriend, that rule can might be changed and broken.
It’s either Jed will come to the point that he’ll chose between Amanda and Leila.
“But what about my wife? Hindi ba makakasama sa image mo na ang dine-date mong tao
ay kasal na?” he worriedly said.
Amanda laughs. “C’mon Jed! I have no plan to be your mistress or something!” she
laughs again.
Alam ni Jed at malinaw sa kanya na mahal niya si Amanda. But it’s his conscience
bothering him... knowing that Leila is hurting for all those years. Alam niyang
mahal na mahal siya ng asawa niya while him? Crazily in loved with someone else.
“You don’t love her right?” straight to his eyes, Amanda uttered those words.
naisip kong gawan ka today. So I hope you like it. sige bye...”
Jed remembered his wife. Pilit niyang itinago sa harapan ni Amanda ang ngiti nito
nang maalala ang asawa.
Do I love her?
Napaisip si Jed. But even before he answer the question Amanda suddenly cling on
his arms.
“Alright, I’ll never ask that stupid question...” she place her head on Jed’s
shoulder. “I know I am the one you loved... I love you Jed. Don’t made me cry
okay?”
****
The bell rang. It’s already lunch break.
Isa-isa nang naglabasan yung mga estudyante sa class room para kumain ng lunch.
“Where do you like to eat Jed?” tanong ni Amanda sa ‘boyfriend’.
“Anywhere good.” Simpleng sabi nito.
Nagsipag datingan na rin yung iba pang kabarkada ni Jed.
“’Sup dude?” bati ni Spencer. Nakipag appear lang si Jed. Still, he doesn’t look
like in the mood.
Napansin na ito ni Amanda. “Are you okay, Jed?” hinawakan niya ang magkabilang
balikat nito na para bang minamasahe.
“Ho-ho-ho! Dude! Since when you two become sweet?” tanong naman ni Jasper.
“Well, we are now officially couples.” Pagmamalaking sabi ni Amanda sa mga

kabarkada.
“Woah! Unbelievable!” tuwang tuwang sabi ng tropa.
Ang totoo... hindi naalis sa isipan ni Jed ang tanong ni Amanda... paulit-ulit
itong tumakbo sa isipan niya.
“Hey, where’s Pat? Seems like Bihira nalang siyang sumama sa atin ah...” sita ni
Amanda.
Jed suddenly came back to his senses. He knows that Patrick and Leila were close
with each other. Hinayaan niyang maging malapit na magkaibigan si Leila at ang
bestfriend niya dahil naisip niya mabuti ito para kay Leila. At least, meron itong
maituturing na kaibigan at masasandalan bukod sa kanya. He knows what kind of past
Leila had. That dark and lonely past he wanted to change for Leila.
“Ayun, may knalolokohang 2nd year college.” Pagtatampong sabi naman ni Steph.
“Really? I thought siya ang goody-good-boy sa atin? Now, he’s courting someone? At
mas bata pa sa’yo Steph!” pangaasar ni Amanda.
It made Steph pissed off. “Shut up b*tch! Ikaw nga jan... err, never mind!”
Alam ng mga kaibigan ni Jed na may asawa na siya. But they never met Leila. He
doesn’t want to get involved Leila with his bunch of friends. He wants Leila to
find her own one. And luckily now, Leila had three friends –Charlotte, Chester and
his best friend Patrick.
Balak na sana nilang lumabas nang biglang pumasok si Patrick ng room at hingal na
hingal.
“Dude! Where have you been??” tanong ni Spencer.
“May Kinuha lang ako...” he said with a different smile. A smile of someone who’s
in loved.
“Kinuha? Baka naman kamo may pinuntahang babae!” sarcastic na sabi ni Steph.
“C’mon Steph! Wag ka na ngang magselos! Nandito na naman si Pat eh!” Amanda cheers
her friend.
“Tss, sana di ka na lang sumama ngayon at doon ka na lang si chinita mong chic!”
galit na sabi ni Steph.
Patrick can’t talk... but he can’t keep his smile. While Jed? He was just looking
at his best friend... observing him.
“Woah! Chinita? Ipakilala mo naman sa amin yan dude! Maganda ba?” Spencer aks.
“Kayo na ba?” sita naman ni Jasper.
“Ugh! Cut it out guys! I had enough! Tara na!” then lumabas na si Steph ng
classroom.
Jed Sy...
Spencer Paulino...
Stephanie Cruz...
Jasper Salvador...
Amanda Lu...
And Patrick Tan...
These are the six fourth year college students na kilala ang mga surnames dahil sa
kung anong mayroong negosyo ang bawat pamilya nila. Mayayaman at makapangyarihang
mga estudyante. All they do is kill time and have fun. wala silang ginawa kundi mag
pakasaya sa buhay hanggang sa dumating ang time na ipasa na sa kanila ang
pamamahala ng kumpanya.
Sa isang restaurant sila nagpunta para kumain ng lunch.
“Are you not going to order?” tanong ni Amanda kay Jed.
He smiles at her at umiling-iling lang. “Are you sure?” pangungulit ni Amanda.
“Yeah... I’ve got pack lunch.” Sabi ni Jed. Ayaw niyang masayang yung pack lunch na
ihinanda ni Leila para sa kanya. Kinuha niya yung lunch box sa loob ng bag niya.
Binuksan niya yung lunch box, bumungad sa kanya yung nilagang baboy.
naisip kong gawan ka today. So I hope you like it. sige bye...”
Hindi mapigilan ni Jed na hindi mapangiti.
“Wow! Dude mukhang masarap yang baon mo ah!” napatingin si Jed sa kabilang side.
It was Patrick. Naalala niya, pareho ng kung anong meron siya ngayon sa harapan
niya ang mayroon si Patrick na ulam. Because they’ve got it at the same girl.
Tiningnan lang niya si Patrick, he’s still not refraining from that smile.
“Pahingi ako!” sabi naman ni Spencer as he was about to dig a spoon at Patrick’s
lunch.
“Ayoko nga!” pagpigil ni Patrick.
“Sige na Pat! Patikim naman kami! Niluto ba yan nung chic na kinalolokohan mo?”
asar naman ni Jasper.
Napailing na lang si Patrick sa mga pinagsasabi ng kaibigan. Nabaling naman ang

tingin niya kay Jed. Now, they were both looking at each other. Napatingin si
Patrick sa pagkain ni Jed. The have the same lunch.
Patrick smiles. “It’s nice dude, nagbabaon ka na pala ngayon.” Sabi ni Patrick sa
kaibigan.
Hindi na lang ito pinansin ni Jed at sinimulan nang kainin yung pagkain niya.
Lalo siyang napangiti nang matikman niya yung nilagang baboy na gawa ni Leila.
Mayroon kasi itong kakaibang lasa, hindi isang ordinaryong nilagang baboy. She
added mushroom soup in it!
“Looks like masarap yang pagkain mo at Napapangiti ka honey...” Amanda suddenly

uttered.
Jed smiles. “Gawa ba yan ng asawa mo?” she added. In her tone, there is the sound
of jealousy.
“Yeah, I have to take accept this. Pinaghintay ko siya kagabi and I felt guilty
dahil hindi ko siya nsabayan mag dinner last night.” That is the truth.
Jed feels so guilty about last night. Late na kasi siyang nakauwi kagabi at hindi
na niya naabutan si Leila sa dining table. What made him even more guilty? It is,
when... he was about to knock at her room but he heard him crying and he know to
himself na siya ang dahilan kung bakit umiiyak ang asawa.
“But I bet you enjoyed last night...” Amanda roughly said beneath his ears.
Yes, magkasama sila ni Amanda last night. Having fun and making out. So how come he
can go home so early for that? Besides, it was Jed’s mom order to go home early
because of that. He had respect for his mother.
He smiles at Amanda to ease it’s jealousy in her eyes. “Hey...” Amanda put his one
arm around Jed’s neck and move closer to him. “We can go out again tonight... what
do you think?” Amanda whispers to his ears.
Jed didn’t know that his best friend was looking at them. It feels like Patrick was
hurting seeing them together like that. Well, it doesn’t mean he has a feelings for
Jed either Amanda. It was Lei who he cares about. Pakiramdam ni Patrick ay siya si
Leila ngayon at nakakaramdam ng kirot sa puso.
“Hey, look at this guys...” suddenly, Steph uttered. “Bakit parang pareho yung baon
ni Jed at Pat?” pagtatakang tanong nito.
All through the meal ngayon lang nila ito napansin. Others agree... Amanda look at
Jed suspiciously. Looks like she was figuring out something between Jed, his wife,
Patrick and girl who got Patrick being so crazy about.
“Oo nga, bakit pareho kayo ng pagkain ni Jed?” Amanda asks Patrick.
“Ah... eh, baka nagkataon lang! AHAHAHAHA!” Patrick covers up.
Jed doesn’t care if their friends find out the reason why they have the same food
was because of only one girl named Leila.
“Ganon ba?” Amanda uttered.
Madali kasi maniwala si Amanda sa mga kalokohan ng barkada. Kaunting biro lang dito
ay akala mo para sa kanya ay totoo talaga. For short, walang joke sa kanya. Slow
siya pagdating sa mga biruan.
Hindi na ito ulit pinansin ng barkada at tinapos na ang pagkain. Bumalik na sila ng
school para sa afternoon class nila.
*****
End of class. Nagkayayaan ang barkada na mag punta sa bar. It could be their last
days of being together dahil alam nila sa mga sarili nila that all these fun stuffs
will be over once they graduate.
“Sige, mag kita na lang tayo don guys!” sabi ni Spencer at tuluyan nang lumabas ng
room.
“Let’s go?” aya ni Amanda kay Jed as she wraps her arms on Jed.
Naglakad silang dalawa papuntang parking lot kung nasaan yung kotse ni Jed. They
were supposed to have a date alone but it seems that it’s not the right time.
Habang naglalakad sila papuntang parking lot ay nagku-kuwento si Amanda about sa

mga pangyayari sa business niya at sa mga bagay na kinaiinisan niya.
Jed’s feet got nailed on the ground when he saw Leila... standing in front of them.
“J-jed...” mahinang sambit ni Leila but it was enough to heard by Amanda at Jed.
On a sec, Jed feels sorry for Liela. Seeing him with another girl even though he
was married to her. At that moment, he can feel what she feels. He see it through
Leila’s eyes. As if she was about to cry at any moment.
“Who’s this girl Jed? Do you know her?” Amanda asks.
Napatingin si Jed kay Amanda. He can’t bear to look at his wife’s eyes.
Jed didn’t know what to do. Is this that moment? Where he has to choose between
these girls?
But then... whom will he chose?
Amanda? The one that he loved. Or Leila? Who’s his reliable wife which he has the
responsibility to love.
Why does it had to be like these? Litong-lito at that time si Jed. He can’t look
directly at Leila’s eyes. He feels pity for her.
“Oh, nandito ka lang pala... kanina pa kita hinahanap babe!” laking gulat ni Jed
nang madinig ang boses ni Patrick.
Nakita niyang lumapit ito kay Leila.
Is this right? Ako dapat ang nasa tabi niya ngayon... naisip ni Jed.
But how will he do that? When in the first place ay Matagal nang wala siya sa tabi
ng asawa. He never make Leila feel the loved that she must feel. Because all of his
affections were alter for Amanda.
But then...
Why does he feels like this? Bakit kakaiba ang pakiramdam niya ngayon?
Ngayong may ibang taong nasa tabi ni Leila...
“Oh! Patrick! Who is that girl? Is she your girlfriend?” tanong ni Amanda.
Hinawakan ni Patrick sa waist si Leila and pull her closer to him. “Hindi ko pa nga
pala siya naipapakilala sa inyo...”
Something made Jed’s feels like he was about to explode. He held his fist so tight.
“She’s Leila, my girlfriend...” emotionless, nakatingin si Jed kay Patrick.
Patrick looks at Jed as if he was asking for a fight... A fight for having Leila.
Tila nangungusap ang mga mata ni Patrick as he was looking at Jed. While Jed? He
couldn’t do anything but hold on his fist so tight. He feels this feeling like he
was mad or something. It’s like his heart was about to explode into madness.
“Oh! I thought you are a-- err, never mind. Hi! I’m Amanda! Nice to meet you
Leila!” bati ni Amanda kay Leila.
“So,” hinawakan ni Patrick sa magkabilang balikat si Leila. “It was nice to see you
guys here, pero may date pa kami ngayon ni Lei so we got to go. See you around
guys!” then hinawakan niya yung kamay ni Leila at hinila palayo sa lugar na ‘yon.
Jed and Amanda was left there standing.
Jed couldn’t gather all of his thoughts and feelings that time. He feels so livid
to his best friend Patrick and sorry for Leila at the same time. He wanted to say
something to Leila but he can’t. He wants to say sorry for what happen.
“So she was the girl Patrick’s been crazy about...” Amanda uttered while they were
on the road.
Jed seems so awkward about that conversation. Talking about his wife with another
man around. He can’t help not to think what happened to Leila right now. Nagaalala
ito para sa asawa niya. Alam niyang Matagal nang nahihirapan si Leila sa relasyon
nila—a man who can’t love his wife. But he doesn’t want to end their relationship.
He don’t even think about having a conversation with Leila about divorce or
anything about ending up what they have right now. He grew up with her. His parents
always reminds him to love and not hurt Leila since they have been married. And
even at the last moment of his father’s life... he even warned him not to hurt
Leila and make his wife happy.
“Mahalin mo si Leila, Jed. Don’t you dare file a divorce or end up your marriage
life. Let her be happy by your side... Jed, make her happy..”
Naalala ni Jed ang bilin ng kanyang ama sa kanya bago ito mamatay.
Jed suddenly stops the car. He already made up his mind.
“What’s wrong Jed?” pagtatakang sabi ni Amanda nang ihinto ni Jed ang sasakyan.
Tumingin si Jed kay Amanda. “I have to tell you something.” Seryosong sabi ni Jed.
Amanda looks so fuzzy. Hinawakan ni Jed ang isang kamay ni Amanda.
“It’s about Patrick’s girlfriend...” humarap si Amanda kay Jed. Napataas pa ang
isang kilay nito.
“Well? What about her? Do you know her?”

“Well...” hindi niya kayang sabihin kay Amanda kung sino ba talaga ang babaeng
inaakala niyang girlfriend ni Patrick ay ang asawa niya. He wants to clear out from
Amanda’s mind that Leila was not really Patrick’s girlfriend.
“Patrick’s girlfriend... Leila...” he can’t utter it. but he doesn’t want any
confusion.
“Yeah... what about her? Do you really know that girl?” Amanda got pissed off.
“Well...”
“WHAT JED? WHO IS SHE?” pasigaw na sabi ni Amanda. She cannot control her temper
anymore.
“Leila is my wife!” he finally utters it.
Tila nabingi si Amanda sa sinabi ni Jed. It seems like she doesn’t want to hear it
from the guy he loves.
“W-what?” hindi parin makapaniwala si Amanda.
“Amanda, look... Leila is my wife. She’s the one I am telling you.” kalmadong sabi
ni Jed.
“I-I don’t understand Jed. Why? How come?” Nalilito na ang dalaga sa mga
nangyayari.
“Nakilala niya si Patrick nung first year siya dito and they become friends.” Jed
explains to Amanda.
“So... Patrick likes your wife?” Jed suddenly feels the madness when Amanda utters
those words.
“I-I don’t know...” Hinigpitan niya ang pagkakahawak sa manibela ng kotse.
Amanda suddenly hugs Jed. “Please Jed... tell me that you loved me.” panlalambing
nito.
Jed kisses Amanda on her forehead. “I love you babe.” Then he smiles on her.
Nagpatuloy si Jed sa pag d-drive ng sasakyan papuntang bar.
***
Habang nag d-drive si Jed, Amanda can’t help not to think about their
circumstances. Between her, Jed, Patrick and Jed’s wife—Leila.
Amanda’s afraid to lose Jed. She’s crazy in love with Jed and she’ll do anything
for him to stay by her side. And now, she knew how Jed’s wife look like. She now
finally meet the girl—ang kaagaw niya kay Jed. The thought that Jed loves her
proves to herself that doesn’t need to worry or make doubts. But what she saw a
while ago... she felt like jealous.
She met Jed when they were in first year college. At her first glance at Jed way
back then, she knew that Jed’s the perfect one for her—that Jed is her soul mate.
But her fantasy crashed when she found out that Jed’s married for almost ten years.
At that moment she felt like everything she planned on got ruined. The man she
loved was already given his vows to someone. She can see Jed as his future husband.
At noong nalaman niyang may gusto rin pala si Jed sa kanya way back first year
second semester, she did not hesitate. No doubts. She asks Jed to be one of his
flings hanggang sa ligawan siya nito. Though they have already both knew that their
feelings are mutual, gusto ni Amandang maranasang ligawan siya ni Jed. Isinantabi
niya yung dream niyang maging isang beautiful bride ni Jed. She take away the
hesitations and take the risk to love Jed.
Amanda doesn’t want to lose Jed. That’s all she knew.
At ngayon... she sees it through Jed’s eyes. The way Jed glances at Patrick a while
ago as her friend introduces Jed’s wife as Patrick’s girlfriend. Those eyes... it
made her feels so jealous even though she knew that Jed was already hers.
Nakarating na sila sa bar. She wanted to drink even more and have fun. Gusto niyang
magsaya kasama si Jed at kalimutan yung mga nangyari kanina at the same time.
“Isa pang bote please.” Sabi ni Amanda. Iniabot naman ng bartender yung order ni
Amanda.
She was about to drink it nang may kumuha nito sa kanya. It was Jed. Umupo si Jed
sa tabi ni Amanda at ininom yung bote. She pouts.
“Jed, akin yan eh!” parang batang sabi ni Amanda.
Ngumiti lang si Jed sa kanya. “Nandito na sila.” Sabi ni Jed nang makita ang mga
kabarkadang papalapit na sa kinauupuan nila.
“Yo! What’s up!?” bati ni Spencer.
Umupo na rin sila at nag place ng order. Napatingin si Amanda sa mga kaibigan. They
were all here right now, and even Patrick.
“Patrick! Bakit hindi mo kasama yung girlfriend mo?” Amanda utter.
She can’t help it. she’s been drowning by the alcohol and it even got worse because
it mixed to her jealousy. Natahimik si Jed at Patrick habang gulat naman ang iba sa
sinabi ni Amanda.
“Woah! Hindi mo sinasabi may girlfriend ka na pala pare! Bakit hindi mo ipakilala
sa amin?” ani ni Jasper.
“Yun ba yung gumawa ng dala mong pack lunch?” tanong naman ni Spencer.
“Pinatulan mo talaga yung second year na ‘yon Pat?” galit naman na sabi ni Steph.
Tumingin si Amanda kay Jed but his eyes were all on Patrick’s. Waiting for his
answer.
“Seriously Amanda? Talagang sineryoso mo yung sinabi ko kanina?” natatawang sabi ni

Patrick.
“What? I thought she was your girlfriend. You even introduce her to me and Jed.
Diba?” sabay tingin kay Jed as if she doesn’t knew already that Leila was Jed’s
wife whom Patrick had been introduce as his girlfriend.
“No! C’mon Amanda! I’ve been fooling around that time.” sabi ni Patrick.
“What?” napataas ang isang kilay ni Amanda. She wants Jed to say to all of those
people around that Patrick’s been talking about was also Jed’s wife. To prove to
herself that she was the only one in Jed’s at wala na siyang iba pang kaagaw.
“But I can see it in your eyes Pat, she’s special to you.” Amanda added.
It made Patrick smiles. She saw Jed’s eyes looking at Patrick, it’s so serious. She
feels like her heart has been stabbed.
“Well, you see... she’s very special to me. kaya hangga’t maaari, ayokong ipakilala
siya sa inyo. Kasi mga baliw ang kaibigan ko.” sabay tawa ni Patrick.
“G*go ka Pat! Hindi naman namin Papatulan yung GF mo eh! Gusto lang namin
makilala!” sabi ni Jasper.
“Actually, balak ko na siyang ligawan...”
Nadinig ni Amanda ang pagbagsak ng bote sa table. It was Jed who put the bottle
with an amount of force. Kitang-kita sa mga mata ni Jed ang pagkabigla niya sa
sinabi ni Patrick. He seems like getting about to explode. Hindi naman makapaniwala
sa reaksyong nakita niya kay Jed.
Amanda turns her looks at Patrick. It was looking directly at Jed’s. it seems like
the fire is up between the two. Amanda feels like her heart suddenly stabbed and
wounded. That’s because of Jed’s eyes she see the way he looks at Pat when Patrick
utters those words.
“Naks naman oh! Mukhang seryoso ka sa chic na yan ah!” ani Jasper.
Napangiti lang si Patrick habang si Jed? Ayun, hindi maipinta ang expression niya.
Hindi maipaliwanag ni Amanda kung ano yung nararamdaman niya sa nakikita niyang
expression ngayon ni Jed nang bitawan ni Patrick yung mga salitang ‘yon.
I know to myself that he loves me. that I’m the only one, but why does I feel
like... jealous?
Nasaad sa isipan ni Amanda. She’s a little bit confuse at this time about Jed’s
feelings, but she trust her boyfriend about anything he says to her.
Nilunod na lang ni Amanda ang sarili sa alak to forget those thoughts in her mind.
*****
Habang nagkakasiyahan ang magkakaibigan sa bar, hindi naman nawawala ang tension sa
pagitan ni Jed at Patrick. They keep on looking at each other as if naghahamon ng
suntukan ang bawa’t isa.
Bawat inom ni Jed ng beer ay panay ang tingin nito kay Patrick. Ganoon din si
Patrick kay Jed. As if the two of them wants to have a private chat—concerning
about Leila.
Unang gumawa na ng move ay si Patrick. He walks toward Jed where he was sitting.
“Pwede ba tayong mag usap sa labas?” aya ni Patrick.
Walang tanung-tanong ay tumayo si Jed at sinundan si Patrick papalabas ng bar.

Looks like Jed already knows why Patrick ask him to talk personaly.
Naiwan sa loob si Amanda at iba pa nilang kaibigan. They didn’t notice that the two
guys had left for some serious conversation.
Inabutan ni Patrick ng isang bote ng beer si Jed.

“Seryoso ka ba sa sinabi mo kanina?” panimula ni Jed. He already know what they
would talk about. It’s Leila.
Ininom ni Patrick yung kanya bago siya sumagot. “Kung seryoso ba ako pipigilan mo
ako?” sabi nito.
Ngumiti lang si Jed at napailing-iling. “You really like my wife don’t you?”
“Yes. I love her.” Seryosong sabi ni Patrick. Habang si Jed naman ay iniinom yung
beer niya.
“Kung sakaling ipaubaya ko ba siya sayo...” he paused. Jed looks up into the starry
sky. “Will it make her happy? Magiging masaya ba siya sayo? Hindi mo ba siya
sasaktan?” he added.
Sumandal si Jed sa pader habang si Patrick naman ay umupo sa grid ng kalye.
“Bakit sa tono ng pananalita mo ayaw mong ipaubaya sa akin si Lei even though you
don’t love her.” Patrick utters.
“C’mon Pat. You know how much I love Amanda. It’s just that...” hindi masabi ni Jed
kay Patrick.
Lumingon si Patrick sa likuran niya kung saan nakasandal si Jed. “It’s just that?”
Huminga ng malalim si Jed. “It’s just that I don’t Leila to feel the pain. I want
her to be happy.”
Natawa si Patrick. “Sa tingin mo ba masaya ngayon si Lei? Ha Jed?” napataas ang
tono ng boses ni Patrick. It seems like his feelings were out of control.
“Hindi ko sinasabing masaya si Leila sa akin... sa marriage namin. I know, all this
years we’ve been together... she never give up on me. kahit na nasasaktan na siya.”
mahinahong sabi ni Jed.
He let it out. Jed finally burst a little of his feelings which he cannot tell.
“You mean... you’ll give up Leila on me?” sabi ni Patrick as he walks towards Jed.
“I’m not saying like that pre. May pangako ako sa papa ko. I won’t make Leila feel
sad.” Tila nainis na si Patrick.
“Tss. Eh pare ang gulo mo naman eh!” Pat put his both hands on Jed’s collar. “Mahal
mo ba si Leila o hindi??”
Jed cannot answer. He don’t know how to handle that question in the first place.
Umiwas ng tingin si Jed kay Patrick. “Hindi ko alam...”
Finally, binitawan ni Pat yung collar ni Jed. He walks away from the scene.
“Jed” Pat utters as he stopped from walking. “If you make her cry and hurt again...
Hindi kita mapapatawad... kahit na mag best friend pa tayo. Ayoko na ulit makita
yung ganoong mukha ni Leila. I want her to be happy.” Then he turn back to look at
Jed. “At kapag ginawa mo pa yun. I’ll die maagaw ko lang siya sa’yo.” Then he
completely walks away.
Ilang minuto rin ay Sumunod na si Jed Papasok ng bar.
Hindi mawala sa isipan niya yung pinaguusapan nila ng best friend niyang si
Patrick. He seems so bothered about it.
Can I make her happy? Ani Jed sa isipan habang tukirong naglalakad sa loob ng bar.
“Babe!” Amanda suddenly uttered.
Lumapit agad ito kay Jed and automatically cling her arms on Jed’s.
“Are you okay?” pagaalala ni Amanda.
“Y-yeah. I’m fine.” Walang ganang sabi ni Jed. Kaya napa-pout naman itong si
Amanda.
“Let’s dance! C’mon!” Amanda pulls him papunta sa dance floor.
He’s really not in the good mood and confuse. Kaya habang nagsasayaw sila ni Amanda
sa gitna ng dance floor ay parang wala itong gana. It made Amanda got pissed off.
*****
Naiinis na si Amanda kay Jed. Kanina pa kasi kakaiba ang kilos nito. And she
exactly know the reason why.
Tch. Bad trip naman oh! Naisip ni Amanda habang nagsasayaw sila ni Jed sa dance
floor. She’s faking her smile while deep inside kanina niya pa gustong sampalin si
Jed sa sobrang inis niya dito.
Why Jed? Why are acting this way? Mahal mo na ba yang asawa mong yan?
She keeps on murmuring on her minds.
Nadinig niya ang pinaguusapan ni Jed at Patrick sa labas. She accidentally saw a
while ago the two gentlemen walking away from the bar kaya sinundan niya ito. She
didn’t mean to make an eavesdrop about their conversation. And hearing their convo
makes her even hurt. It appears like Jed as this special care for Leila and it made
her jealous.
While in the middle of the dance floor, she didn’t expect to see that familiar
face.
She saw Leila standing half way to them. They were both looking at each other. She
smiles.
Makikita mo kung sino ang mas mahal ni Jed. Ani Amanda.
She hasten kiss Jed on its lips. She can’t help but to look at Leila while she was
kissing Leila’s husband and see the girl in pain. She can’t help but to smile.
She got shocked nang biglang itulak siya ni Jed palayo. Hindi naman ito ganoon
kalakas at kabayolente but the fact that Jed resist from her kiss made her really
shocked. Jed never defy Amanda hat everything the girl did surprisingly. But that
kiss... Jed defy her.
It made her got pissed off even more. “I HATE YOU!” sigaw ni Amanda sa sobrang inis
at saka ito sinampal at umalis sa gitna ng dance floor.
Naiwang tulala doon sa gitna si Jed. He’s really out of his mind. Hindi niya na
realize na napakalas ng sampal ni Amanda sa kanya.
A few minutes after... “JED!” familiar voice suddenly uttered from his back.
Nang Lumingon siya dito ay agad na siyang Sinuntok nito. It was Patrick. It looks
like Pat really got mad.
Napahiga si Jed sa lakas ng pagkakasuntok ni Pat sa kanya.
“G*G* KA! DIBA NAG USAP TAYO KANINA? BAKIT PINAIYAK MO PARIN SIYA?” mabuti na lang
at nakita ng barkada nila ang nangyayari kaya inaawat nila si Patrick at Jed.
Momentarily, Jed’s been back into reality. Naramdaman na lang niyang nagdurugo na
ang nguso niya.
Tumayo siya. “Ano bang sinasabi mo jan?”
“*NGA**! Hindi mo ba alam na nandito si Leila ngayon! Nakita niya kayo ni Amanda na
naghahalikan!” nagpupumiglas si Pat sa pagkakahawak ng dalawang kaibigan. Gusto
niyang sapakin si Jed. Gusto niya itong patayin sa bugbog ngayon but he can’t do
that.
Inalalayan naman ng mga di kilalang tao si Jed. “Ha? Pano? Hindi naman--”
“G@*# ka Jed!” ani Patrick na galit na galit.
“Fafa Jed! Fafa Jed!” anang isang baklang nagngangalang Chester. Tumatakbo ito
papalapit sa kanya.
Jed remembers that gay. It was one of Leila’s friends.
“Jed... we need your help!” sabi ni Chester na natataranta. Hindi naman alam ni Jed
kung anong klaseng tulong ang gagawin nito.
“Si Leila—” just before Chester explains everything. Agad nang tumakbo si Jed
hearing Leila’s name it becomes automatic for him. Hinanap niya kung nasaan si
Leila.
Nakita niya ang asawa pinapaligiran ng mga lalaki. Nanlaki ang mga mata niya nang
makitang may lalaking nambabastos sa asawa niya at akmang hahalikan ito. Kaya’t
dali-daling siyang lumapit at Hinatak palayo doon si Leila.
“Don’t you dare touch my wife...”
Nasabi ni Jed with a fearful tone and glance. Hindi na niya hinihatay pa ang
sasabihin ng mga lalaking ‘yon. Kinaladkad niya si Leila palabas ng bar.
“Jed... where are we going??” halata sa tono ng boses ni Leila na lasing na ito.
Hindi siya iniimik ni Jed hanggang sa makarating sila ng parking lot kung saan naka
park ang kotse ni Jed.
Binuksan ni Jed yung pintuan sa harapan at pinaupo doon si Leila.

“Jan ka lang. kukunin ko lang yung gamit ko sa loob.” Galit na sabi ni Jed.
Nagmamadaling pumasok si Jed ng bar para kunin ang cell phone niya na hawak ni
Amanda.
Amanda’s been wasted. She drunk ‘till her heart’s content.
Naabutan siya ni Jed na nakahiga na doon sa sofa. Lumapit si Jed sa kanya.
“Amanda, wag kang matulog jan.” sabi ni Jed. “I need my phone, give it back.”
Seryosong sabi nito.
Tumawa si Amanda. “Ayoko...” then she laughs again.
“Please Amanda. I need to go home now!” pasigaw nasabi ni Jed but he’s not mad or
something.
“Nooooo! I won’t give it to you until you won’t kiss me!” Amanda said silly.
Napakamot si Jed ng ulo. Hindi niya alam ang gagawin niya.
“Hey!” sigaw ni Amanda. Kinuha ni Patrick yung phone ni Jed sa kamay nito.
“Ano ba Pat!” inis na sabi ni Amanda.
“Oh... baka hinihintay ka na ni Lei sa labas.” Kalmado na ngayon si Patrick.
Kinuha naman ni Jed yung phone. “Ikaw na bahala kay Amanda, Pat.” He ordered.
Jed was about to take a leave when Amanda suddenly cries his name.
“Jed... please, say it! say that you’re only mine!” Amanda really got drunk that
much.
Balak na sanang lapitan pa ni Jed si Amanda but Jed stop as Patrick signs him to
stop.
“Sige na Jed. Iuwi mo na si Lei sa bahay niyo. Ako nang bahala kay Amanda.” Then
Jed run away from the bar.
Sa parking lot. Natagpuan niyang himbing na himbing si Leila.
He starts the engine. At nagdrive na siya pauwi sa bahay ng parents niya.
Nang makarating sila sa bahay, Binuhat niya si Leila Papasok. Eksaktong nadatnan
naman sila ng nanay ni Jed.
“Jed!? What happened to Leila?” pagaalalang sabi nito.
“Naparami ng inom si Leila, ma.” Jed explains.
“Okay, dalhin mo na siya sa kuwarto. Papapuntahin ko na lang ‘don si manang para

bihisan siya.”
Dinala na niya si Leila sa kuwarto nito.
Akmang ihihiga na niya si Leila sa kama nang bigla siyang niyakap nito ng
napakahigpit. Medyo nagulat si Jed.
“Jed...” napakalambing ng boses ni Leila. “Bakit di mo ako kayang mahalin?”

Papaiyak na sabi ni Leila.
Hindi magawang kumalas ni Jed sa pagkakayakap ng asawa kahit na alam niyang mas
malakas siya dito. He can’t because he seems feeling right about it.
“Leila... lasing ka. Magpahinga ka na.” kalmadong sabi nito.
“Bakit Jed?” tuluyan nang tumulo ang luha sa mga mata ni Leila. Nararamdaman ni Jed
na nababasa ang damit niya sa bandang kanan ng kanyang dibdib.
He looks at his wife. Nakaramdam siya ng kirot sa puso nang makita ang luhang
tumutulo sa mga mata ng asawa niya. The distance between their faces was just like
inches away.
“Bakit ganon Jed?” Leila still keep on talking while crying.
Hindi parin umalis si Jed sa ganoong posisyon. He’s still on Leila’s top. Just
looking at his wife.
“Bakit kahit gaano kasakit ang gawin mo... kahit saktan mo pa ako ng paulit-
ulit...” he was just listening on what Leila’s saying.
“Bakit mahal na mahal parin kita?” tears run down on Leila’s face.
“Bakit kahit galit na galit ako sayo ngayon... hindi ko magawang magalit sayo?
Bakit? Bakit mahal kita ng sobra sobra?” patuloy lang sa pagiyak si Leila.
Jed can’t help it anymore. He thinks, maybe he’s not good enough to wipe Leila’s
tears but he’s been feeling what Leila feels right now.
Pinunasan niya ang luhang umaagos mula sa mga mata ni Leila.
“I’m sorry Leila. Parati ka na lang nasasaktan nang dahil sa akin...”hinawi niya
yung strands ng hair ni Leila sa mukha.
“Will it make you happy if I gave you up on Pat?”

“But I can’t just do that... hindi ko alam kung bakit... but one thing to me is
sure, I want you to be happy Leila...”
All these years that they’ve been living together, Jed never say what he feels for
Leila. This is the first time he finally let out of his feelings. While Leila’s
asleep.
“I’m really sorry... lagi ka na lang nasasaktan dahil sa akin.”Then he kissed Leila
on her forehead.
Kinumutan na niya ang asawa at tuluyan nang lumabas ng kuwarto.
“Looks like you’re already falling son.” Laking gulat ni Jed nang biglang magsalita
ang mama niya mula sa gilid.
“Ma naman! Kanina ka pa jan?” inis na sabi ni Jed.
“Oo? Nadinig ko yung mga pinagsasabi mo kay Leila.”
Biglang nalungkot si Jed. “You know what ma, I don’t deserve Leila’s love.
Nasasaktan lang siya dahali sa akin.” He confesses to his mother.
Tinapiktapik ng mama ni Jed ang kanyang kaliwang balikat. “But you want her to be
happy right? Matanong nga kita anak. Ba honest okay?”
“What is Leila to you?”
“I really don’t know ma. All I know right now... I want her to be happy.”
“Gusto mo siyang maging masaya? Kanino? Sayo? O sa ibang tao?”
“She’ll never be happy by my side. Lagi lang siyang iiyak.”
“C’mon Jed! It’s never too late! Pwede mo pang maitama yung mga pagkakamali mo!
Make it up with Leila! Spend some time with her...”
“Can I really do that?” Jed’s mom rolled her eyes.
“Anak, gusto mo ba siyang maging masaya sa piling mo?”
“Yeah? Well, if she will smile freely habang ako yung kasama niya... I’ll be
satisfied.” He smiles.
Her mom smiles. “You really are growing up na hijo.” Sabay tapik sa balikat ni Jed.
“Magpahinga ka na Jed. May training ka pa bukas.” Paalala ng mama niya.
Naglakad na ang mama niya papunta sa kuwarto nito when suddenly Jed calls her.
“Ma, I have to tell you something.” Lumingon ang mama niya sa kanya. “Can I take a
leave tomorrow?”
Nagtataka ang mama ni Jed sa tanong ng kanyang anak. “What do you mean?”
“I mean... I-I want to spend a day with Leila. You said it’s never too late, so
tomorrow will the start.”
Napangiti ang mama niya. “You’re being selfish one you know?”
“Well, if I’m being selfish... then I’d rather be selfish.” Then Jed smiles.
Pumasok na siya sa kuwarto niya at nag shower. Matapos mag shower ay agad siyang
humiga sa kama. Napatingin siya sa kanan kung nasaan naka-place ang side table
niya. He pulls out the drawer and take something inside from it.
It’s a picture frame.
He looks at it—at their wedding picture 11 years ago. They were child back then. He
can’t help but not to smile. Parang kailan lang ang bata pa nila but now? They were
grown up young gentleman and woman.
“I’m being selfish, huh?” he utters while looking at the picture.

He smiles while placing the frame on the side table.
I just want her to be happy. Gusto kong tuparin yung bilin ni papa sa akin before
he died. But I realize something this day... yung nararamdaman ko, it’s not just an
ordinary errand of my father. This is my own will.
Bakit ganon? Naiinis ako kapag magkasama si Leila at Patrick? It feels like I can’t
stand to see both of them smiling. Having fun together. Mali ba ‘to?
Mahal ko si Amanda, pero hindi ko kayang pakawalan si Leila... kahit na alam kong
nasasaktan siya nang dahil sa akin. What should I do?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------
Don’t be mad when someone else starts to appreciate the person you took for
granted.
What you won’t do, someone else will.
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--------------------------------
Anne's Note: hmmmm?? :// what you think guys? unti-unti na bang napapalapit si Jed
kay Leila? Is he jealous? Sorry mabagal upadate ha?
i want to ask about your reactions and suggestion for the story. HAHA! Ngayon lang
'to! I usually never follow erands and orders, pero baka mag dilang anghel kayo at
i-grant ko ang request niyo? Ano bang gusto niyong mabasa sa story na ito?
HAHAHA! :DD
LEAVE YOUR COMMENT. VOTE. SHARE TO YOUR FRIENDS.
kung nagustuhan mo lang naman :3
God bless!
I hope you like the update! :**
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 6
Chapter 6:
AN: Hi guys! This is a Third Person’s POV ulit po. =))
Lumabas ng pintuan si Jed.
P*cha naman oh! Bakit ayun yung sinabi ko? nasabi niya sa isip. Hindi niya kasi
alam ang sasabihin kay Leila nang yakapin siya nito patalikod at sabihan ng I love
you. He never hears those Leila utters to him.
“I’m sorry Leila? Amp!” nasipa ni Jed ang pader. “Kainis! Bakit ayun yung nasabi
ko?”
Hindi mapakali si Jed sa kanyang kuwarto habang iniisip yung binitawan niyang
salita kay Leila.
“Now! How can I ask her to go out?!” bigla siyang natigilan. “What? Go out? Saan
naman kami pupunta?” at nagpalakad lakad muli.
Left. Right. Pabalik balik lang sa paglalakad si Jed. “Sa bar?” napailing-iling
siya. “Bakit ko naman siya dun dadalhin! Hindi naman magandang dalhin dun ang isang
babae for a date!”
Tumigil ulit siya sa paglalakad. “Date? Anong date? I’ll just make up my mistakes!
It’s not a date!” naiinis na si Jed.
Humiga siya sa kama. Tinakpan niya ang mga mata niya sa pamamagitan ng kanan niyang
kamay.
“I love you Jed...”
“AAAARRRGGGHHHH!” bigla siyang Napabangon at napasabunot sa ulo.
Bago pa ibato ni Jed ang unan ay may kumatok sa pintuan ng kuwarto.
“Pasok!” inis na sabi ni Jed.
“K-kuya?” it was Fei.
“Oh? Bakit? Anong problema mo?” aburidong sabi ni Jed.
Tumakbo papuntang kama si Fei kung saan nakaupo ang naiinis na kuya. “Anong
nginunguwanguwa mo jan?”
“HA?”
“Sabi ko bakit ka nagsasalita mag isa!” binawian naman ni Fei nang sigaw ang kuya.
Although it doesn’t sound like she shouts. Matinis kasi ang boses ni Fei.
Napakamot nanaman si Jed ng ulo. Bigla itong nahiya dahil nadinig siya ng kapatid
na kinakausap ang sarili na tila baliw.
“Tell me Fei, saan ba magandang dalhin ang isang babae?” inosenteng tanong ni Jed.
The truth is. Jed never dates anyone. Although Amanda on the other side, they
always goes out but not like the typical date that what couples do. They always on
the bar. Bar hopping is the most place Jed and Amanda went. Drinking, dancing,
having fun all trough night. Kaya parating lasing umuwi si Jed sa bahay nila ni
Leila.
“Hmm... at bakit mo naman natanong ha?” mataray na tanong ni Fei.
Niirita na talaga si Jed. Hindi niya kasi alam kung paano sisimulan. Hindi niya
alam kung ano ba ang dapat gawin. Although he made his first move—giving Leila a
breakfast in bed. Yes, Jed cook it himself. Although he knows to himself na hindi
siya magaling magluto at wala siyang alam sa kitchen. Thanks to his smart phone and
google search he search how to prepare a breakfast in bed.
“Ano? Tutulungan mo ba ko?” insi na sabi ni Jed.
“Eh sino naman ka date mo?”
“B-basta! W-wala ka na dun noh!” hindi masabi ni Jed na gusto niyang ayain si Leila
lumabas at mamasyal. Nahihiya siya sa kanyang asawa.
“Ok! Bahala ka jan! Di kita--” akmang patayo na ng kama si Fei nang pigilan siya ng
kapatid.
“Wait! Sige na! Sige na! Sasabihin ko na!” pikon na pikon na si Jed. He’s desperate
para makabawi kay Leila.
Nakangiti si Fei sa kanyang kuya. Naghihintay sa sagot nito. “Sino nga?”
“S-si Leila! Ayan! Sinabi ko na!” inis na inis na sabi ni Jed.
Tila mga dyamanteng kumikislap ang mga mata ni Fei nang madinig ang pangalan ng
sister-in-law na banggitin ng kanyang kuya.
“May sakit ka ba kuya?” sabay hawak sa noo ng kuya niya.

Inalis naman ni Jed ang kamay ng kapatid. “Tss. Wala! Ano ba!? Saan ba magandang
dalhin ang isang babae ha?”
“Hmp! Hindi ko sasabihin hanggat hindi nagiging malambing yang boses mo!”
pagmamaktol ni Fei.
Napakamot nanaman ng ulo si Jed. “Tss. Eto na eto na!”
Napalunok si Jed. “Fei... sige na... sabihin mo na sa akin kung saan ko pwedeng
dalhin si Leila... please?”
Napaisip si Fei. “Hmm, kung si ate Leila ang pagusapan...” Fei paused. Seryosong
nakatingin si Jed sa kapatid. Naghihintay nang susunod na sasabihin dito.
“Ano? Saan?” iritang irita na si Jed.
“I don’t know...” then Fei stands up.
“Amp! Anong di mo alam?”
“Hindi ko alam... ewan ko kung saan ba pwedeng dalhin si ate Chan!” sabay takbo
papuntang pintuan.
“Hoy! Fei!”
Binuksan ni Fei ang pintuan ng kuwarto. She make a funny face to tease her brother
then leave the room.
“AAARRRGGHHHH!” Jed burst.
Humiga na lang ulit si Jed sa kama. Then he hears the door opens.
“Kung si ate Chan ang paguusapan...” it was Fei. “Take her everywhere. As long as
you’re with her... she’s contented and happy.” Fei smiles and shut the door again.
Napabangon naman sa pagkakahiga si Jed. Everywhere? As long as I’m with her? Happy?
Contented? Nasaad sa isipan ni Jed.
He suddenly smiles as her looks at the picture frame on his side table. Their
picture together when they were young.
Kinuha niya ito at nakangiting pinagmamasdan. It reminds him of their childhood.
It was back then when Jed was 16 years old and Leila was 13. They were on a field
trip back then. Their last trip was on an amusement park. Magkakasama ang bawat
year levels sa paglilibot.
Jed, at that time; was about to ride on the roller coaster with his friends when
his eyes caught Leila rooming around—all alone. Nilapitan niya si Leila.
“J-jed!” takot na sabi ni Leila. She was about to cry at that moment.
“Bakit ka mag-isa ha? Leila?” pagaalalang tanong ni Jed as asawa.
Tears run down on Leila’s eyes. “Kasi... nag punta kami sa comfort room ng iba kong
classmates...” she snobs and sniffs while talking. “akala ko mabait na sila sa
akin... pero iniwan nila ako sa CR. Kinuha nila yung bag ko. hindi ko alam kung
nasaan na yung mga classmates ko.” she was like a 7 year old girl who got loss.
Napakamot ng ulo si Jed. He can’t let Leila be by herself. Hindi niya ito kayang
pabayaan and besides, binilin ito ng parents niya na bantayan at alagaan.
“Tara...” Jed take Leila’s hand back then. Hinila niya ito papunta sa pila ng
roller coaster.
“Oh Jed! Bakit kasama mo yang freak na yan?”
“Tara na! iwan mo na yan! Malapit na tayo oh!”
It was like Leila had never exists at their school. She was like an outcast. And
Jed doesn’t want what he sees. He doesn’t want to see Leila being hurt.
Napahigpit ang pagkakahawak ni Jed sa kamay ni Leila.
“Sige, kayo na lang Sumakay jan. I’d rather be with Leila kaysa sa inyong masasama
ang ugali.” Kalmadong sabi ni Jed. “Let’s go Leila.” Utos ni Jed as he pulls his
wife outside the line.
Jed remembers that moment. That was the first and last na nakapuntang Amusement
Park si Leila and she never got to enjoy that experience.
Jed smiles instantly as gathered an idea. Bumangon siya sa kanyang pagkakahiga at

nagpalit ng damit.
*****
Hindi parin tumitigil sa pag iyak si Leila nang makalabas na ng kuwarto si Jed.
“Ganon ba ko kahirap mahalin? Bakit Jed?”
Natigil sa pag iyak si Leila nang mapatingin sa trey na nakalagay sa kama.

Pinunasan niya ang sariling luha at tinanggal ang takip.
Noong una’y nagtaka siya nang makitang sunog ang bacon and egg. Halatang hindi maid
sa bahay ang nagluto nang pagkain na Dinala ni Jed. Although Leila still feels the
pain, she can’t help but to smile. She knows to herself that it is her husband who
prepared the breakfast she was about to eat. Kaya walang alinlangang inubos ni
Leila yung pagkain.
As soon as she finish eating. Someone knocks at her door. At nang buksan niya ito,
it surprise her to see Jed in front.
“J-jed. Bakit?” she can’t look at Jed’s eyes directly. Ayaw niyang ipakita sa asawa
na namumugto ang mata niya nang dahil sa kakaiyak.
“11:30” Jed utters.

Napatingin nang di inaasahan si Leila kay Jed. “Ha?”
“11:30 dapat naka ayos ka na. I’ll wait for you at the sala.” Akmang paalis na si
Jed nang hawakan siya ng asawa sa braso.
“Bakit? Saan tayo pupunta?”
“Just do what I say! Magbihis ka na!” pasigaw na sabi ni Jed.
Pagkasara ni Leila nang pintuan, bakas sa mukha niya ang kasiyahan. Jed finally
asks her to go out. Even though it’s not in a good way and pleasing way as she
likes. Still, her husband asks her to go out.
Leila went in panicked when she looks at the wall clock. It’s almost 11 o’clock.
She only have plenty of time to prepare. Agad siyang tumakbo papuntang cabinet para
kumuha ng damit na isusuot. Due in panic she can’t pick any nice to wear. Because
it was the first time that Jed ask her to go out it makes her got excited and got
panic because of the time given by Jed for her to prepare.
“Ano bang isusuot ko!?”
Nakuha na lahat ni Leila ang damit sa cabinet yet wala parin siyang mapili.
Habang naghahanap parin ng masusuot si Leila ay kumatok sa kuwarto niya si Fei.
“Ate Chan? What’s in a rush?” pakunwari nitong sabi kahit na alam niya ang dahilan.
“I can’t find anything to wear. Jed and I will going out.” Sabi ni Leila habang
naghahanap parin ng masusuot.
“Oh my gosh! You and kuya we’re out on a date!?” excited na sabi ni Fei.
Bigla namang nahiya si Leila sa sinabi ng sister-in-law. She never thinks of it as

a date. But when Fei suddenly utters those words Leila felt like her cheeks became
red and feels burning.
“I-its not like that Fei. We’re just going out.” Depensa ni Leila.
“Okay fine! I’ll help you.”

Lumapit si Fei kay Leila at hinawakan ang magkabilang balikat nito. “I’ll make you
more prettier so that Kuya will like you!” Fei said to cheer her sister-in-law.
*****
Naghihintay naman si Jed sa sala. It makes him pissed off dahil sa tagal niyang
naghihintay kay Leila para Bumaba.
“Sabi nang 11:30 aalis kami eh! Anong oras na? 12 na ng tanghali!” aburidong sabi
nito.
“What are you mocking out there kuya?” Fei suddenly utters.
Bumaba nang hagdanan si Fei with a silly smile on her face. She walks towards her
brother.
“Bakit ang tagal naman niyang Bumaba?! Gusto niya bang umalis o hindi?” Jed’s
really pissed off.
“I-I want to go with you!” tila tumigil ang oras nang makita ni Jed siLLeila sa
hagdanan.
Leila walks down the stairs. She walks towards her husband. “I-I’m sorry. Natagalan
kami ni Fei.” Nahihiyang sabi ni Leila nang nakatayo na siya sa harapan ni Jed.
Jed can’t help himself but to look at his wife. Leila looks dashing with her
clothes. Simpleng long sleeves lang ito na off white at long layered pastel skirt.
She was just simple but it brings freshness and perfect complexion on her face. She
really has that natural beauty without having heavy make-up on her face.
“Arrgghh! Ewan! Tara na!” Jed drags his wife’s hand and walks towards the car.
“Pasok.” Jed commanded his wife. Pumasok si Leila, she can’t do nothing about it.
The engine starts.
“J-jed. Saan tayo pupunta?” natatakot na tanong ni Leila. She was afraid na baka
magalit ang asawa niya kung tatanungin niya ito at baka mairita sa kanya si Jed.
“Basta.” Jed said calmly.
Kanina parang bulking sumabog si Jed sa sobrang inis niya at ngayon napaka lamig
naman niya. Isang bipolar kung maituturing itong si Jed. Paiba-iba ng mood.
Nang tumigil ang sasakyan, nagtaka si Leila kung bakit sila nasa isang theme park.
“A-anong ginagawa natin dito?” tanong ni Leila.
Jed breathes deeply before he talks. “Naalala mo nung grade school? Diba hindi mo
na enjoy yung theme park noon?” it made Leila smile.
Umiling-iling ito. “No, I enjoyed it. Kasi Nandoon ka sa tabi ko. Instead of
choosing your own happiness... you chose my own happiness than yours.” Leila smiled
at Jed.
“But still you didn’t enjoyed it don’t you? Let me changed it. Let me make it up to
you Leila.” Jed said directly looking at Leila’s eyes.
Hindi naman makatingin si Leila nang diretsyo kay Jed. She feels like her heart was
about to explode. Her heart beats so fast and she felt like her cheeks were
blushing.
Bumaba na sila nang sasakyan. They were inside of the park.
Masaya si Leila dahil naalala pa ni Jed yung mga panahong yoon. To think that she
was the only one who reminisce the past was wrong. There’s Jed who also thinks of
those memories which both of them shared.
It kindda crowded at the Theme Park. Nahihiyang humawak si Leila sa braso ng asawa.
Kaya ko bang hawakan ang kamay niya? Will he allow me to do that? Naisip ni Leila
looking at her husband’s back. Yes, nasa likod ni Jed si Leila. As if they were
like strangers and not husband and wife.
It gets crowded even more. Unti-unti nang natatabunan ng maraming tao ang likuran
ni Jed. Leila seems to be afraid. She doesn’t want to be alone in that crowded
place again. She tries her best to reach Jed’s back.
*****
“Leila, kumapit ka sa akin.” Nagulat na lang si Jed nang makitang wala na sa

likuran niya ang asawa.
Jed got panic. What if Leila got loss? But luckily, Jed saw Leila in the center of
the crowd. It seems like Leila was reaching for Jed. And when Jed saw his wife he
instantly holds Leila’s hand whose reaching for him.
It was like the time stops. The world stops from revolving at that moment... at
that moment when Jed holds Leila’s hand. At parang sing bilis ng isang wishing
star... Jed hugs Leila.
“J-jed.” Leila got speechless. Hindi niya alam kung anong gagawin o sasabihin.
“Natakot ako... akala ko nawala ka na sa likod ko... natatakot akong mawala ka.” He
burst it out again. Jed’s untold feelings. His confuse feelings.
Hindi alam ni Leila ang gagawin. She was just confuse yet it feels like her heart
beats so fast. Para bang gustong tumalon ng puso niya.
“Just hold my hand ok?” Jed said as it smiles to Leila. Ngumiti na lang si Leila.
Hindi ko alam kung anong nangyari ngayon kay Jed. But I’m here for him kasi ako
yung baliw niyang asawa na nagbubulag-bulagang mamahalin niya ko. kung panaginip
man ‘to, sana hindi na ako magising. I’ll treasure this moment. At kahit ngayon
lang... maramdaman kong mahalaga ako para sa kanya.
Leila said inside her mind.
Hawak lang ni Jed ang kamay ni Leila. Ang nasa isip lang niya ngayon... mapasaya si
Leila sa piling niya. Kahit na sa araw lang na ‘yon.
[AN: Do play the video on the side for background song. :”>
Song Title: Closer, Faster Artist: Against the Current]
Hinding hindi ko bibitawan ang kamay mo...
“Saan mo gustong Sumakay?” Kalmado at malambing ang tono ng pananalita ni Jed.
“Hindi natin na try yung carousel noon. Gusto kong Sumakay sa carousel!” masayang
sabi ni Leila.
Napakamot naman ng ulo si Jed. “Diba parang matanda na tayo para sa carousel?”
Biglang naging malungkot ang mukha ni Leila. Tila nakosensya naman si Jed. “Sige
na. sige na!”
Wala namang nagawa pa si Jed. They ride on the carousel.
Hilo namang lumabas nang carousel si Jed. Habang si Leila sobrang enjoy. “I-try
naman natin yun!” turo ni Leila sabay hila kay Jed. But Jed refused to.
“Hep-hep. This time ako naman ang pipili ng ride!” demand ni Jed.
Hinila ni Jed si Leila papunta sa isang malaking barko. Dinig na dinig ni Leila ang
sigawan ng mga nakasakay sa ride na yun. It makes her got scared. Habang si Jed
nakangiting pinagmamasdan ang mga nakasakay.
“Ah... Jed? S-sigurado k-kabang sasakyan natin yan?” takot na sabi ni Leila.
“Oo naman! Masaya kaya yan! Tara na!” hinila ni Jed si Leila Papasok sa pila but
Leila restrained .
“A-ayoko Jed! Takot ako!” ayaw pumasok ni Leila sa loob.
“Ano ka ba! Masaya yan! Wag kang parang bata jan Leila!”
“Eh kasi... natatakot ako...” Napatungo si Leila.
Iniangat naman ni Jed ang kamay niya na nakahawak sa kamay ni Leila. “Look, Leila.”
Jed said.
Jed shows off to Leila his hand holing hers. “I got you okay? Kaya wag kang
matakot.” Then he smiles.
It made Leila wash out her fears. “Okay.”
They were on that ride. Leila can’t help but to be scared. Natatakot ako... nasabi
ni Leila sa isipan niya.
He looks at Jed. Walang makikitang takot sa mukha niya. Napatingin naman si Leila
sa kamay niya which Jed’s holding at. Wag kang matakot Chan... hawak ni Jed yung
kamay mo... wag kang matakot.
Ipinikit ni Leila ang mga mata niya as the ride starts.
Papataas ito nang papataas at bigla namang bababa nang napakabilis. Tila lumulutang
ang tiyan niya. Para bang humihiwalay ang laman loob niya sa mismong katawan niya.
“WWWOOOAAAAHHHH!” nadinig naman niyang sumigaw si Jed. It seems like Jed’s really
enjoying the ride.
Leila really scared at that time. Bigla niyang niyakap ang asawa at sumigaw ng
malakas.
“AAAAAHHHHHHH!” sigaw ni Leila habang nakayakap sa asawa.
Ikinagulat naman ni Jed nang bigla siyang yakapin ni Leila but it feels like he was
happy about it.
“Ano? Diba enjoy naman?” sabi ni Jed as they got off of that ride.
Hindi makapag salita si Leila. She feels like distress. It really got her scared.
But yet, she feels safe that time. And that’s because of Jed. She smiles at him and
nodded. Ayaw niyang ipakita kay Jed na natakot talaga siya sa ride na yun.
“Ugh. I’m kindda hungry. Tara kain tayo!” muli, hinila nanaman ni Jed si Leila
papunta sa food stalls.
“Anong gusto mong kainin?” tanong ni Jed sa asawa.
“Kahit ano...” sabi ni Leila. Hindi mapigilang hindi mapangiti ni Leila dahil sa
sobrang saya niya ngayon.
Jed’s been holding her hand the whole time. She’s been thinking how long would Jed
held her hands.
Please, let it stay like this...
They placed an order. Umupo sila sa isang table at nagsimula nang kumain.
“Bakit?” Jed utter.
“Ha?”
“Why are you smiling like that?” biglang nahiya si Leila. Napansin pala ng asawa na
lihim siyang Napapangiti.
Umiling-iling ‘to. and she smiles. “Hindi ko lang mapigilang hindi mapangiti...”
“Bakit ba kasi?” Jed’s really got curious.
Umiling-iling lang ulit si Leila habang nakangiti. “Masaya lang ako ngayon... kasi
kasama kita. Sana hindi ‘to panaginip... it feels like I’m dreaming right now. And
if it’s a dream... lahat ng ‘to, sana totoo na lang sila.” Leila smile again.
“It can be like this forever...”
Natigilan silang dalawa. Nagulat si Leila sa sinabi ng asawa. Ganoon din si Jed,
nagulat siya sa sinabi niya. Bigla na lang itong lumabas sa bibig niya.
“M-may bibilhin lang ako... t-tama! Bibili lang ako!” agad na tumayo si Jed.
Leila was left there. Still not recovering from what had Jed said.
“It can be like this forever.”
Forever... that’s what I’ve been dreaming of Jed... that you’ll take me with your
forever... that I’ll be by your side until the end. That I can be with you in the
future...
“Leila, look...” Leila suddenly came back into reality nang marinig ang boses ng
asawa.
May hawak itong bunny ears na head band. “Try it.” isinuot ni Jed kay Leila yung
bunny ears. Nahihiya naman si Leila na isuot ito.
“J-jed. Ano ba... Nakakahiya!” mahinang sabi niya.

Jed keeps on admiring the ears on Leila’s head. “Sabi ko na nga ba, bagay sayo
‘tong head band na ‘to ehh. Wag mong tatanggalin!” Jed commands. As if he was
playing with Leila.
Napabuntong hininga na lang si Leila. She can’t do anything about it.

ipinagpatuloy na lang niya ang pagkain.
While eating, nakadinig naman si Leila nang flick ng camera. She saw Jed taking
pictures of hers.
“Jed naman! Stop it!” even though nakatingin na si Leila kay Jed, he keeps on
taking pictures.
“Ano ba Jed!” pilit na kinukuha ni Leila yung phone ni Jed. But Jed’s enjoying
taking pictures of his wife.
“Stop it Leila! Ang cute mo nga habang suot yan eh!” then he laughs.
Bigla nanamang nakaramdam ng kakaiba si Leila. She feels like her heart starts to
beats so fast again.
Hinayaan na lang niya si Jed hanggang sa Matapos silang kumain.
They enjoy each other’s company. They try all the rides and games at the theme
park. Hanggang sa inabot na sila ng gabi.
“Saan mo pa gustong Sumakay? Mukhang nalibot na natin lahat ng rides...” sabi ni

Jed. Mukhang pagod na ito.
“Jed! Tingnan mo yun!” Tinuro ni Leila yung teddy bear. Hinila ni Leila si Jed
papunta doon.
“Jed! Gusto ko nun!” tinuturo ni Leila yung teddy bear. Napakamot naman ng ulo si
Jed. How will he can get that bear? Hindi siya masuwerte sa mga ganitong games—
prizes and such.
“I don’t think I can get it.” walang tiwala sa sariling sabi ni Jed. Nalungkot
naman ang mukha ni Leila.
“Kuya, pano ba laruin ‘to?” it made Leila stop for a moment.
Sinabi ng naga-assist ang instructions para sa game. It’s a basketball game.

Kailangan mong makakuha ng 3 shoots para makuha yung grand prize. Hindi sporty si
Jed but he plays basketball with his barkada.
First shoot. Pumasok sa ring. Second shoot. Pumasok ulit sa ring.
It’s the last shot. Kinakabahan si Leila... will Jed can shoot the ball into the
ring?
Third shoot. Pumasok ang bola sa ring.
“WAAAAAHHH! Ang galing galing mo Jeedddd!” tuwang tuwang sabi ni Leila as she runs
towards his husband.
Hindi napigilan ni Leila ang sarili. Niyakap niya ang asawa sa sobrang tuwa.
Napanalunan nila yung bunny bear na gustong-gusto ni Leila.
“Thanks Jed.” Sabi ni Leila with her sweetest smile.
That smile made Jed relieve for a while. He can now see Leila smile happily beside
him—not on somebody. He’s happy to see that he can make Leila happy.
Hinigpitan ni Jed ang pagkakahawak niya sa kamay ni Leila.
“Woah!” agad na hinila ni Leila si Jed papunta sa loob ng souvenir shop.
Pumasok sila sa loob ng shop. Napaka daming mabibiling souvenir. Mula sa mga
shirts, mugs, note books, stuff toys, key chains at kung anu-ano pa.
“Ang cute!” sabi ni Leila looking at the couple chain. Bunny bears ito. Isang blue,
isang pink.
Kinuha naman ni Leila yun at binayaran sa counter. Habang si Jed naman

pinagmamasdan yung frames sa tabi ng isang photo booth.
“Hi sir! May libre pong picture sa photo booth kapag bumili kayo ng frames namin.”
Sabi nung sales lady kay Jed.
Nginitian naman ni Jed yung sales lady.
“Jed!” tawag ni Leila dito. She walks towards his husband.
She give her sweetest smile at Jed. He smiles back. “Tada!” Leila said as she shows
off the couple chains.
Napangiti si Jed. “Amina yung phone mo!” Leila demanded on Jed. He gave his phone.
Ikinabit ni Leila yung blue-bunny-bear sa phone ni Jed. “Yan! Tig isa tayo!” then
she chuckles.
Leila’s really happy. She’s happy being happy with the one she loved the most.
“Gusto mo bang magpa picture?”
“Hmm?”
“Sabi nung sales lady libre daw yung picture kapag bumili ka ng picture frame.
Let’s take a picture as a remembrance. So we can display it in our house kapag
umuwi na tayo.”
It made Leila really happy. Buong araw niyang nakasama si Jed. It seems like
everything is perfect between the two of them. She only hopes for it to stay like
that forever. Nit just temporarily but through eternity.
Nagpa picture silang dalawa. They bought two frames so they have two pictures have
been taken.
Jed and Leila still holding each other’s hands while walking around the theme park.
It seems like they were couples who are madly in love with each other. Masasabi
mong mag asawa sila ngayon.
“Jed?”
“Hmm?”
“What time tayo uuwi?”
“Bakit? Gusto mo na bang umuwi?” umiling-iling si Leila habang nakangiti.
“Ayoko... hangga’t maari Ayoko... kung pwede lang hindi mag sara ‘tong theme park
hindi ako aalis. I want to stay here forever with you... these happy memories with
you. natatakot akong pag labas natin ng theme park magbago na ang lahat at bumalik
sa dati... I want to stay like this... forever...” saad ni Leila. “Thank you for
bringing me here Jed... thank you for making me happy and making me feel that I am
still your wife.”
Jed can’t help it. there’s an urge in his body dictating him to do something. But
before that happens...
*Phone Rings*
May tumatawag kay Jed. Kinuha niya ang phone niya from his pocket... it was Amanda
who’s calling.
“Sino yan Jed?” tanong ni Leila.
Jed can’t look at Leila. Agad siyang nakaramdam ng lungkot. Alam niya kasi kapag
sinabi niya kay Leila kung sino ang tumatawag, malulungkot nanaman ito. Pero ayaw
naman niyang mag sinungaling sa asawa.
“It’s Amanda...” seryosong sabi ni Jed.
Kitang-kita sa mukha ni Leila ang lungkot nang marinig ang pangalan ni Amanda. She
remembered the events she saw at the bar. The one and most painful part is where
Amanda and Jed were kissing on the middle of the dance floor.
Wala namang nagawa pa si Leila. She can’t forbid his husband not to talk to Amanda.
Besides, it’s Jed’s who loves the most and it’s not her...
“Jed...” bago pa makapagsalita sa kabilang linya si Jed. Amanda suddenly utters.
“Amanda? Are you drunk?” pagaalalang sabi ni Jed.
“Please... come back to me... I love you Jed...”
“Amanda!? Nasan ka ba? Amanda!?” but the call just ended.
Bigla namang nag alala si Jed para kay Amanda. It’s seems like for a few seconds he
forgots that he was with Leila.
“Kailangan kong puntahan si Amanda...” Jed said but Leila hug him from his back.
“Please Jed... stay here... stay by my side... please...” Leila pleaded.
Jed’s in a critical decision making. Hindi niya alam kung sino ang uunahin...
Ang babaeng minamahal niya? Or ang asawa niyang mahal na mahal siya kahit na labis
na itong nasasaktan. Why he can’t choose between the two?
Huminga ng malalim si Jed. Hinawakan niya ang mga kamay ni Leila na naka lock sa
pagkakayakap sa kanya. He slowly puts it down. Humarap siya kay Leila.
Hindi na napigilan ni Leila ang sarili... she cries.
“Please Jed... please...” she pleaded.
“I’m sorry Leila but Amanda also needs me... I have to go after her. Come on,
isasakay kitang cab pabalik sa bahay.” Leila felt really bad for herself. In the
end, false fantasy lang ang lahat.
Lahat ng kasiyahan... kaligayahan na nararamdaman ngayon ni Leila... may hangganan

pala.
Hinawakan ni Jed ang kamay ni Leila. He guide his wife on the cab.
Binayaran na niya ang cab para ihatid diretsyo pauwi si Leila. He seems feels
something hurts in his chest. Para bang nadala siya ng kalungkutan sa mukha ni
Leila... ang mga patak ng luha sa kanyang mga mata.
*****
Fairy tales... they’re only meant to be read. It will never become part of reality.
Once, I dreamed of it.... but it always stay as Once Upon a time story.
In the end... ang magic ng theme park ay hindi sakop ang kalabasan nito.
As Jed leads me into the cab... unti-unti na ulit siyang lulalayos at para bang
kinakain na siya ng shadows. He let go of my hand nang makasakay ni ako sa cab...
I pleaded him... but why? Why is it hard to be with me?
What did I do wrong? Why aren’t I good enough for you?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Love can sometimes be magic.
But magic can sometimes... just be an illusion.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sorry late. SUUUPPPEEERRRR LAAATTTEEEE! >___<Comment kayo guys for suggestions and
reactions :D I'll be happy to read those! ^___^Click niyo din yung star kung
nagustuha niyo. SHARE niyo na rin. HAHAHA! Demanding much!? xDD
I dedicated this story kay kuya Amiel! :DD
Hellooooo poooo! *kaway* *kaway*
I'm so hooked sa story niyang Sadako's First Love! Hehe. I really like that story
and the fact that it sounds like an Anime to me. HAHAHA! Anime lover ako ee. PROUD
OTAKU! \^o^/
Enjoy reading guys! God bless ^___^
=================
Chapter 7
Chapter 6:
AN: This is Leila’s POV na po ulit =))
Fairy tales... they’re only meant to be read. It will never become part of reality.
Once, I dreamed of it.... but it always stay as Once Upon a time story.
In the end... ang magic ng theme park ay hindi sakop ang kalabasan nito.
What did I do wrong? Why aren’t I good enough for you?
Bakit ganon? Akala ko okay na kami. Pinipilit kong hindi umiyak sa loob ng taxi.
Pero gusto kong ilabas ‘tong sama ng loob ko. ‘tong sakit na nararamdaman ko.
Malapit na kami sa Village ng bahay nang mahagip ng mata ko ang isang convenient
store.
“Manong dito na lang po ako.” Sabi ko sa driver.
“Pero sabi ng boyfriend mo ibaba daw kita sa bahay mo eh.”
Napangiti ako dahil sa sinabi ni manong. Yes, sinabi nga ‘yon ni Jed and he paid
for the cab.
“Okay lang po. May bibilhin lang po ako.”
Ibinaba ako nung driver sa convenient store. Pumasok ako sa loob.
Bigla kong naalala, dito kami nag punta noon ni Pat nung nagkabanggaan kami sa
kalsada para bumili ng band aid at cleanser.
Hindi ko alam kung bakit ba ako nagpababa dito. Basta, ang alam ko lang... gusto
kong mawala ‘tong nararamdaman kong sakit. Nakakita ako ng bote ng beer sa ref.
Binuksan ko yung ref at Kinuha ko yung bote. Pareho lang kaya ‘to sa lasa nung
ininom ko nung nagpunta kaming bar nila Charlotte?
Kumuha ako ng limang bote. Hindi ko alam kung bakit pero may lakas ako ng loob para
kunin ‘to. gusto kong makalimot... gusto kong kalimutan si Jed.
Naglakad na ako Papasok ng Village daladala yung plastic ng beer. Ayoko pang umuwi.
Naisipan kong dumaan ng park. Umupo ako sa swing at Inilapag yung bote ng beer sa
gilid ko. kumuha ako ng isa at Binuksan ko.
Inamoy ko yung beer. Hindi ko gusto ang amoy... nakakasuka.

“I’m sorry Leila but Amanda also needs me... I have to go after her. Come on,
isasakay kitang cab pabalik sa bahay.”
Napaiyak ako. Bakit ganon? Akala ko may pagasa na kong magkaroon ng puwang sa puso
niya pero bakit hanggang ngayon wala parin?
Kasabay ng pagtulo ng luha ko ay ang pag inom ko ng beer. I endure its bitterness.
It’s better to be like this. Kaysa ang mapuno naman ang puso ko ng luha. Mga luhang
hindi ko mailabas.
Pero kahit na gaano kasakit... kahit anong galit ko para kay Jed... still, I love
him.
Nakaka tatlong bote na ako nang may tumawag sa akin. I can still manage. Nasa
katinuan pa ako.
It’s Patrick who’s calling. At first akala ko si Jed na yung tumatawag... pinapaasa
ko lang ang sarili ko. I pick up the phone.
“Hello?”
[Lei? Okay ka lang ba? Bakit parang umiiyak ka?] he sounds so worried. Pinunasan ko
ang luha ko.
“Okay lang ako. Bakit ka napatawag?”
[Gusto lang kitang kamustahin. Okay ka na ba? I-I mean... about what happened at
the bar.]
Napangiti ako. I realize, there’s someone who cares for me. even though I’m in so
much pain right now... there’s this one guy who never fail to catch me from my
back. “Ok lang ako. Thanks Pat.”
[Thanks for what?]
Napatingin ako sa langit. “You’re always there for me... you’re like a guardian
angel given by God whenever I’m in distress. You are my light.”
Hindi siya nagsalita. He let me to talk continuously. “I’ve been living with Jed
for the past 11 years. I have loved him for 11 years... but why does it hard for me
to love me? Mahirap ba akong mahalin? Am I not good enough? I think Jed doesn’t
deserve a wife like me.” habang nagsasalita ako, patuloy ang pagbagsak ng luha ko.
[You’re worth loving for Leila...] nagulat ako sa sinabi ni Patrick. Hindi ko alam
kung anong sasabihin ko. [I-I mean... You’re the best wife! You cook so well, you
are caring, nice, forgiving and...] he paused again. [I like you...] biglang
bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. para bang kinabahan ako sa sinabi ni Patrick.
“Kung nababago man kapalaran... Sana ikaw na lang...”natawa ako. Natawa ako sa
sinabi ko. “Sorry... I’ve just got that stupid thought.” I said while laughing and
crying at the same time.
[Then, if fate turns out like that... ako ang asawa mo ngayon mo] we both laugh.
[Then I’ll be a good husband to you... I’ll love you... cherish you for the rest of
my life.] a wind strikes me. I smile.
“I love Jed. Mahal na mahal ko siya...” Napatungo ako. “Sige. I’ll hang up the
phone. Kita na lang tayo sa school.” Hindi ko na siya hinintay na magsalita pa. I
already hang up before he talks.
Tumayo ako sa pagkakaupo ko sa swing. Para akong tutumba, nahihilo ako at medyo
blury ang paningin ko. I decided to go home. But there’s the last bottle of beer
for me to drink.
Kinuha ko ‘to at habang naglalakad ako I insanely drink it.
Nakarating ako ng bahay. Hilong hilo na talaga ako. I know what I’m doing but my
head was like swirling. It feels like I’m riding a roller coaster. Umupo ako sa
tapat ng gate. Sumandal lang ako doon. It seems like Jed was still not at home.
Maybe he’s still with that girl... the girl he loves.
Sa sobrang hilo ko I feel like sleepy so I close my eyes for a bit.
“Leila...”
“Leila...” I know that voice... slowly, I open my eyes. It was Jed.
“Jed?” I realize nakatulog na pala ako dito sa may gate.

Inalalayan niya ako sa pagtayo. “Bakit dito ka natulog...” my head hurts. “Ano
‘to?” Kinuha niya yung bote ng beer mula sa kamay ko. “Leila!?” tinaasan niya ako
ng boses.
Napahawak ako sa gate ng bahay. “Please Jed... stop it.” hindi ko na kaya pang
tumayo. My head really aches. I’m feeling dizzy.
“Kelan ka pa natutong uminom? Ha? Diba sinabi ko umuwi ka na kanina?” he really is

mad. It made my heart to burst out everything I want to say.
“Bakit?! Ikaw? Ikaw lang ang pwedeng gumawa nang mga ganitong bagay?” my heart
really burst out. “I too. I’m capable of doing these!” it makes me cry. He was just
looking at me. “Bakit mo ko iniwan Jed? Why are you doing this to me? Am I not good
enough for you? Ganoon ka ba kagalit sa akin?” he slowly walks towards me. “Wag mo
kong lapitan!” but he still walks towards me. “Bakit patuloy parin akong
nasasaktan? Bakit mo ako ginaganito Jed? Bakit?” malapit na siya sa akin. Nasa
harapan ko na siya ngayon. I’m pushin him away from me. Sinusuntok ko siya sa
dibdib but I’m weak to put a force to it.
“Bakit?” pahina ng pahina ang boses ko. I’m continuously doing it. I keep on
pushing him away from me pero hinawakan niya yung dalawa kong kamay. “Bakit?”
paulit-ulit lang ako.
When I lose all of my energy, he pulls my right hand around his waist and he hugs
me. He hug me so tight. “I’m sorry...”paulit-ulit na sabi ni Jed habang yakap-yakap
ako.
I try to push him. “I’m sorry. I’m... I’m no good for you...”
“Bakit hindi mo ako kayang mahalin Jed?” I stop from restraining. There’s no point
anyway. He’s stronger than me so I just gave in.
“I’m sorry...” binitawan na niya ko. Pinunasan ko yung luhang nanggaling sa mga
mata ko.
“So, I guess I’m nothing to you... Don’t be sorry, I should be the one who’s saying
sorry. All these years... we’ve been living together and makes you harder to live
on your own. While me... I’m happy together with you. even if takes a hell to be
with you.” I smile while looking at him. Pinunasan ko muli yung luhang tumulo mula
sa mga mata ko. “I guess we have to end this up... Good night Jed.”
I turn my back and walk towards the gate. Bubuksan ko na sana yung gate nang
biglang hawakan ni Jed ang isang kamay ko. He pulls me closer to him.
The next thing I know...

He’s kissing me...
My eyes were open. His lips... it touches mine. I try to push him but he pulls me
even closer to him until he hugs me again... so tight as if I’m lock in his arms.
He keeps on kissing me. I don’t know what to do.
It drives me crazy. He’s moving his lips while mine were closed. I can’t move...
nanghihina ako. I can feel his tongue trying to enter inside my mouth. At that
moment, I just realize my hands were already on his neck locking it and I’m
entirely going with the flow. I automatically open my mouth. His tongue went inside
mine. It makes me even crazier. It makes bent my back. His one arm’s on my back
supporting.
It lasted for a minute. I keep on catching my breath. Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso
ko. I’m still lock in his arms... I can feel his breathe.
“What’s wrong with you?” I ask in a low voice. Naiiyak nanaman ako.
But instead of answering my question, he tightens more his hug.
It feels like I’m dreaming right now... I’ve been kissed by my husband whom I’m
longing for love. This day... what happened the whole day, it seems like a dream.
It feels like I’m dreaming. His soft lip touches mine. As if we were making love...
as if he loves me.
When his strength seems to get loss. I gently push him away from me. “Gusto ko nang
mag pahinga...” I said. I turn my back on him. “Let’s forget about what happened
today... everything.” I added.
Agad akong tumakbo Papasok ng bahay at pumasok sa kuwarto ko. agad akong humiga ng
kama at tinakpan ng unan ang mukha ko. I started to cry all over again.
“Why does it have to be like this?” I ask myself while crying. “I really can’t
understand Jed... why did he suddenly do such thing?”
Why did he kiss me? Why did he do that? Even though he love someone, why did he do
that? Is he teasing me or something? Why is he hurting me this much?
Maaga akong nagising. Nawala sa isip kong Sunday pa nga lang pala ngayon. Akala ko
Monday na kaya agad akong dumiretsyo ng kusina.
My heart beats so fast when I suddenly see Jed at the kitchen. I quickly turn my
back on him. I’m really nervous. I can still remember what happened last night. And
it makes me feel my cheeks went red. Agad akong naglakad paalis ng kusina but he
grabs my wrist.
Lalong bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko... Is he going to kiss me again?
Nakatungo akong humarap sa kanya. He let go of my hand nang nakaharap na ako sa

kanya. Hindi ko alam ang mga susunod na mangyayari. I’m scared and feeling nervous
at the same time.
“A-ang aga mo naman yatang gumising...” I said awkwardly. Naglakad ako papunta sa
ref para kumuha ng gatas. “Gusto mo ba ng breakfast? Ipaghahanda kita.” I added.
Nakatayo lang si Jed sa harapan ko. He’s staring at me. It made feel the
awkwardness more. Hindi ako makatingin sa kanya ng diretsyo. Ang bilis ng tibok ng
puso ko.
“Actually...” I can see on the side, papalapit siya sa akin. I’m paralyzed. “Nag p-
prepare sana ako ng breakfast...” napatingin ako kay Jed. Looks like he was
embarrass that I saw him in the kitchen and now confessing that he’s making
breakfast.
I sigh. “Need help?” then I smile at him.
Siguro nga, dapat kong kalimutan yung nangyari kahapon... lahat-lahat. Pero yung
pagmamahal ko sa kanya, hindi yun mawawala. Masaya na akong kasama ko siya ngayon.
Kahit sa papel ko lang siya maituturing na asawa. Still, I’m doing the best that I
can do para maging isang mabuting asawa sa kanya.
We prepared our breakfast. It’s just a rice omelette. Nothing special. Tinulungan
niya akong mag prepare nito kaya masaya ako.
Were done preparing and about to eat nang dumating si mama.
“Wow! It’s nice to see the two of you together like this!” tuwang-tuwang sabi ni
mama. Hindi ko maitago yung ngiti ko.
“Ma, umupo ka na dito.” Sabi ni Jed kay mama habang itinuturo yung upuan. “Leila
cooked it. I help her.” Proud niyang sabi sa ina.
“Really?” tuwang-tuwang nakatingin si mama sa akin. I smile at her and nod. “That’s
great then!”
While having breakfast we talk about some random stuff about school, family,
business and such.
“It’s your last sem na diba Jed?”
“Yes ma.”
“Then that’s good. So you can take over the company after graduation. I’m planning
to throw out a party for you on your graduation. lahat ng business partners and
kilalang business people pupunta. I want them to introduce you and Leila. It’ll be
the night of taking over the company para makilala na nila ang bagong president.”
Si mama kasi ang acting CEO ng company and Jed will be the president in a few days.
Pareho na kaming hindi nakaimik ni Jed.
“Siguro after ng exams niyo, we’ll prepare everything. I’ll tell your parents about
this my dear.” Sabi sa akin ni mama.
Nakaramdam ako ng saya. Gusto ko nang makita ang pamilya ko. Ako lang kasi ang
naiwan dito sa Pilipinas. Lahat sila, nasa China. I miss my brothers and sisters.
Even my grandfather and grandmother. Kamusta na kaya sila? Naalala pa kaya nila
ako?
After ng lunch umakyat na ako ng kuwarto. Tinapos ko lahat ng projects, thesis,

reports at assignments ko. nag advance reading na rin ako. Gusto ko lang makaiwas
kay Jed. Ayokong magka-usap kaming dalawa. Hindi ko kasi alam ang sasabihin ko.
Until now, I can still remember what happened.
Tapos ko na lahat ng school works ko. hindi ko na alam ang susunod ko pang gagawin.
Hapon pa lang and it’s really boring to stay the whole day inside the room. I
decided to go at the kitchen para magtimpla ng gatas. Umakyat ako sa rooftop.
Nawala ang kaba ko nang makita kong wala si Jed. Usually, dito ko siya makikita
kapag weekends at wala silang night out ng barkada niya. Siguro umalis siya ngayon.
Medyo nakaramdam ako ng lungkot nang maisip ko wala si Jed dito sa loob ng bahay.
I’m feeling like I miss him.
Mahangin sa rooftop at nakakaantok. Nakaupo lang ako sa wooden swing habang

pinagmamasdan yung matataas na building. Magiging parte rin kaya ako ng mga
nagtataasang building na yan?
Suddenly, I heard the door open. Napatingin ako sa glass door and it surprise me to
see who it was. Umiwas agad ako ng tingin. Ramdam kong papalapit siya ngayon sa
akin. I can hear his footsteps.
Lalong bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko ng umupo na siya sa tabi ko.
“Leila, can we talk?” Kalmado ang boses niya. Tila ba nakikiusap at Nagmamakaawa.
Hindi ako sanay... nasanay kasi akong parati siyang lasing at galit.
“A-ano naman ang pagusapan natin?” I said nervously. I know what Jed and I will be
talking. It’s about what happened last night.
“About last night. And the night before...” Ramdam ko sa tono ng boses niya,
seryoso siya. I can’t look at him. Hindi ko kaya.
“Wala naman tayong dapat pang pag-usapan pa Jed. I know... you love that girl, and
what happened last night... it was just an accident.” I gather all my strength and
courage to talk to him bravely.
“Listen to me.” hinawakan niya yung kaliwang balikat ko. he’s making turn around
and look at him.
“Yes, Amanda... I love her.” He confesses. Para bang sinaksak ang puso ko sa
sobrang sakit. Pinipilit kong hindi maiyak. Kahit na kanina ko pa gustong umiyak.
“Nakilala ko siya noong 1st year college pa lang ako. Back then, she was my ideal
girl. I want her to become part of my life. Pero alam namin parehong hindi pwede.
She knows that I’m married pero ngayon lang niya nalaman na ikaw yun. The fact that
I lied to you for almost 4 years makes me feel like I’m not a good husband to you”
tumulo na ang luha ko. hindi ko na kayang pakinggan pa... nasasaktan lang ako lalo.
“You’ve been a good wife. Pero matagal bago ko pa na realize ‘yon. Matagal bago ko
malaman na ang dami ko nang nagawang kasalanan sayo. You don’t deserve someone like
me.”
Pinunasan ko ang luha ko at humarap ako sa kanya. “Tell me Jed, do you really love
her?” hindi niya ako sinagot. Lalo akong nasasaktan. “Ano ba ko sayo? Asawa lang sa
papel?” hindi ko na kaya. Tumayo na ako, pero bago pa ako makalayo hinawakan ni Jed
ang kamay ko.
“Neither me, myself... hindi ko alam kung ano...” Hinigpitan niya ang pagkakahawak
sa kamay ko. “All I know... I want you to be happy. Gusto kitang protektahan,
ayokong nasasaktan ka... but I know to myself, ako rin ang dahilan kung bakit ka
nasasaktan.” Napatingin ako kay Jed. He’s looking down on the ground. “Should I
gave you up? ‘don ka ba sasaya? Magiging masaya ka ba kung papakawalan kita?” he
paused.
“But this feeling inside me... hindi ko alam kung bakit ganito ‘tong nararamdaman
ko.” Lalong humigpit ang pagkakahawak ni Jed sa kamay ko though it doesn’t hurt at
all. “I want you to be happy. And if the only way for you to be happy is a life
without me, I can give it to you.”
Lalo akong nasasaktan. Lalong papasakit ang mga salita ni Jed. It makes me prove
that he didn’t love me at all. It really hurts a lot.
“Ang sakit Jed... ang sakit-sakit pa lang malaman na hindi mo ako kayang mahalin.
You really want to give up our marriage?” pilit akong kumawala sa pagkakahawak ni
Jed. But I can’t.
“Bitawan mo na ko Jed...” I said. Pilit akong nagpupumiglas mula sa pagkakahawak ni

Jed.
Nagulat ako ng tumayo siya. Hinila niya ako papalapit sa kanya. He hugs me so
tight, I try to push him away from me but he’s dragging me towards him.
“The moment I think of giving you up... the same feeling that I can’t let go of
you.”
He said while I’m lock between his arms.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
Giving up doesn’t always mean your weak.
Sometimes, it just means your strong enough to let go.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
=================
Chapter 8
Chapter 8:
AN: Third Person’s POV po ulit. =))
“Chhhaaannn! Ano stop this stupidness! Kumain ka naman oh!” ani Charlotte. “Ilang
linggo ka nang ganito ah! Nakakakain ka pa ba nang tama?”
“Oo nga gurl! Tingnan mo naman yang face mo! Your so payat na!” dagdag pa ni
Chester. “Sige ka, iiwan ka na ni Jed niyan!”
Napabuntong hininga naman si Leila. She’s not feeling well. Wala siyang ganang
kumain for the past weeks.
“Pano naman ako makakakain kung yung taong gusto kong makasama nasa piling ng iba?”
Leila murmured. She looks directly where Jed’s been siting.
They were at the cafeteria. Lalo siyang nawalan ng gana nang makita niya si Jed
kasama ang mga kaibigan nito. The most painful part is, magkatabi si Jed at Amanda.
Both of them were happy while Leila’s in pain.
Agad namang napansin ni Charlotte at Chester kung saan nakatingin si Leila. They
feel sorry for their friend.
“You know what Leila, mas bagay kayo ni Pat!” Charlotte utters.
“Ha?” Leia said softly.
Charlotte rolled her eyes. “I mean, look! Kitang-kita naman natin na may ibang
mahal si Jed. Why do you keep on holding on? Ganon mo ba siya kamahal talaga? Ano
yun? ‘til Hell do as part?” she burst out. Ayaw na niyang makitang nahihirapan pa
si Leila. Kaya gagawin niya lahat ng makakaya niya para hindi na masaktan pa ang
kaibigan. And Patrick was the way she sees. She can feel that Leila’s really
special to Patrick.
Tumungo si Leila at napailing-iling. “Patrick and I were just friends. Good

friends.” She exclaim. On part of Leila, ayaw niyang masira ang marriage nila ni
Jed. She loves her husband to the point that she was getting hurt emotionally.
“Anuka ba gurl! Kulang na nga lang ligawan ka ni fafa Pat eh! Try mo naman minsan
gumanti jan kay fafa Jed!” Chester utter. “Kung kaya niyang gawin sayo ‘yan ng
harap-harapan edi sabayan mo siya! para quits na kayo!”
“Ipakita mo sa kanya yung other side mo. Yung Leilang nagtatago jan!” Charlotte
pointed out Leila’s heart. “Be strong to fight for it!”
“Korek! Malay mo, magselos si fafa Jed kapag nakita niyang may ibang umaagaw sa
wifu niya!” ani Chester.
“Parang di ko kaya... natatakot ako... ayoko...” She can’t do it. She’s too afraid
to lose Jed.
Napa face palm si Chester habang si Charlotte naman napabuntong hinga na lang.
“Maiba tayo ng usapan...” Charlotte said as she put her palm on the table. “Diba
bukas next week na yung party? Kasi graduation na ng mga yun by next week. So?
Nandun din yung mga friends ni Jed...” Charlotte can’t say the exact words.
“So ibig sabihin andun din yang bruhang yan!” sabay turo ni Chester kung saan
nakaupo si Amanda.
Yes. It is true, lahat ng kaibigan ni Jed ay invited sa party na yun. Besides,

they’re parents would be there too. Lahat kasi ng malalaking kumpanya ay
inimbitahan ng Mama ni Jed.
“Chaaannn!” Chester cries Leila’s name. “Kasama din ba kami?” naglalambing ito.
Si Chester at Charlotte kasi ay may mga kayang estudyante. Pero walang dinadalang
pangalan sa school. They we’re just in the middle class who can live well and make
money just enough for the family.
Leila looks at her friends. Nagpapakita ang mag pinsan ng pagsusumamong makapunta
rin sa party. She smiles. How can she resist her only friends? Tanggap siya ng mga
ito kahit na ano pa siya. Not like the other people in her world. It feels like she
can live in another identity with these guys.
“Bakit naman hindi ko kayo iimbitahin?” nanlaki ang mga mata sa tuwa ni Chester at
Charlotte. “Syempre kailangan nandun kayo noh!”
Niyakap ni Chester at Charlotte si Leila. “WAAAAAHHHH! Thank you talaga Chan!” sabi
ni Charlotte.
“OH MY GOLLY! I’m so excited na makakita ng mga gwapong fafas!” sabi ni Chester
nang kumalas na silang tatlo sa pagyayakapan.
The three laugh.
*****
Sa kabilang banda naman, tintingnan sila ng grupo nila Jed.
“Tingnan niyo yung baklang yun! Nakaka-irita ang pag m-mukha!” ani Jasper.
Nagtawanan naman sila except for Jed. He knows that gay, it’s Leila’s friend.
“Ano ba kasing ginagawa natin dito? Bakit dito tayo nag l-lunch?” tanong ni Steph
habang nakatingin kay Amanda.
It was Amanda’s idea. Ang mag lunch sila sa cafeteria.
“C’mon guys! This will be the last time na mag lunch tayo sa cafeteria! Let’s just
enjoy this! Right Jed?” Amanda said as she clings on Jed’s arm.
Jed didn’t answer. Instead, he looks at his plate. Jed can’t look around.
He can’t look at Leila... nahihiya siyang makita ng asawa niya na may kasama siyang
iba. Although he did that choice—to be with Amanda’s side.
Amanda look at where Leila and her friends were sitting at. She really had a deeper
intention. Amanda knows na dito sa cafeteria nag l-lunch si Leila together with her
friends. She did intentionally to take her friends at the cafeteria and show off to
Leila where Jed really belongs at—to her.
“Pero yung kasama nung bakla...” Spencer suddenly utter. Tinuro niya yung table
kung nasaan sila Leila. “Maganda yung kasama niyang babae!”
Natawa naman si Jasper. “Pare! Na love at first sight ka ba?”
“Hoy! Umayos ka Spencer! Mas bata yan sayo!” saway naman ni Steph. Nagtawanan
lahat.
“Siya kaya yung chic na kinahuhumalingan ni Pat?” Spencer ask.
It hit Jed. He can’t move. He can’t look at Leila’s. Then he remembered, kasama
niya noon si Amanda sa parking lot nang ipakilala ni Patrick si Leila bilang
girlfriend nito. And he even told to Amanda that Leila’s his wife. Will she tell to
everyone that it was his wife?
“Sino?” atat namang sabi ni Steph as she looks at the table.
“Ayun oh! Yung Maputing chinita! Chic pala talaga!” paghanga si Spencer. “Pero
bakit parang malungkot siya?”
Jed can’t help it anymore. Gusto niyang sabihin sa mga kaibigan niya na asawa niya
si Leila. Asawa niya yung pinag uusapan nila... it was his wife.
“Asan nga pala si Patrick?” Amanda suddenly utters.
“Hindi siya pumasok ngayon.” Steph answered.
“Alam ko nasa Hotel nila ngayon yun. May training yata... siguro tiga hugas ng
pinggan!” asar ni Jasper sa nawawalang kaibigan.
“Guys, I have to tell you--”
“Jed and I were getting married!” nagulat ang lahat sa sinabi ni Amanda.
Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Jed at napatingin kay Amanda. It wasn’t the thing he was
about to say. And why the hell did Amanda say that?
“Really? Baliw ka na ba?” ani Steph.
“Ano ka ba! Nagbibiru lang ako...” bawi ni Amanda sa sinabi niya. “Pano naman niya
ko papakasalan kung may asawa na siya diba?” she added sarcastically.
“Yeah right. Stop flirting Jed na nga! Nag m-mukha kang mistress niyan eh!” sita ni
Steph.
Bumitiw si Amanda sa pagkakahawak niya sa braso ni Jed. Nainis siya kay Steph at
inirapan ‘to.
“Matanong nga kita Jed...” Jasper intrude. “Ano bang itsura ng asawa mo?”
Jasper and Spencer laugh. “Ano?” iritableng tanong ni Jed.
“Chill Jed... ” awat ni Spencer. Bakas kasi sa mukha ni Jed na gusto na niyang
sapakin si Jasper. “Ang ibig sabihin ni Jasper eh... Maganda ba yang asawa mo?”
“Bakit niyo naman natanong?” kumalma na ulit ito.
“Eh kasi...” Spencer placed his arm on Jasper’s shoulder. “Bakit hindi mo siya
pinapakilala samin?”
“Oo nga Jed! You never introduce your wife to us!” pagsangayon naman ni Steph.
“No offense pare ha... kinakahiya mo ba yung asawa mo?” tila natamaan si Jed.
Ikinakahiya ko ba si Leila? Hindi. Ani Jed sa isipan niya. He was just afraid...
Akmang sasagot na si Jed nang biglang...
“I saw her...” matipid na sabi ni Amanda.
Napatingin ang buong barkada kay Amanda.
“You saw her?” gulat na gulat na sabi ni Jasper.

“Talaga?” tila interesadong hindi na sabi ni Steph.
“Ano? Maganda?” tanong naman ni Spencer.
Natatakot si Jed sa sasabihin ni Amanda. Malaking gulo kung sasabihin niya lahat ng
alam niya tungkol kay Leila.
Lahat ay naghihintay sa sagot ni Amanda.
“Well... wala akong dapat sabihin. It’s up to Jed kung sasabihin niya sa inyo...”
she looks at Jed and smile. “The only thing I can say is...” tumingin siya sa
direksyon kung saan nakaupo si Leila. “Dito nag aaral yung asawa ni Jed.”
“Woah! That’s awesome! I want to meet her!” ani Spencer.
“Ang mean mo Jed! You’re flirting with Amanda habang nasa paligid lang yung wife
mo?” pailing-iling pa nasabi ni Steph.
“Nandito ba siya ngayon?” tanong ni Jasper as he looks around the cafeteria.
“We’ll see her on Jed’s party right?” sabi ni Steph.
“Oh, that sounds interesting! Magkakaharap ang legal wife at ang mistress!” Spencer
said sarcastically.
“Shut up Spens! I’m not a mistress! Wala akong balak maging ganon.” Dipensa ni
Amanda.
“Eh anong tawag mo sa ginagawa mo ngayon? Diba pang aagaw na rin yan?” Sarcastic na
sabi ni Steph.
Pinagiinitan na ng barkada si Amanda. They feel sorry for Jed’s wife. Especially
Steph.
Hindi na nakaimik pa si Amanda. Lalo siyang nakakaramdam ng galit kay Leila. Kaagaw
na nga niya ito kay Jed at nasakanya pa ang sympathy ng barkada niya. What they can
do? She’s the one who’s on the wrong track. She still insist her feelings for Jed
even though she knows from the start na mayroon na itong asawa.
*****
Hindi makapag concentrate si Leila sa pag r-review. Malapit na ang midterms nila
and she’s determine to get a high grade. Lalo na ngayon, she’s expecting for her
family to visit here in the Philippines. Ang pamilyang hindi niya nakasama for
almost all of her existence. All she wants is to accept by her family... ang
magkaroon siya ng lugar sa pamilyang kinikilala niya. Although she lives with Jed’s
family for years and they treated Leila as their real daughter, iba parin ang
pagmamahal sa tunay mong mga magulang... kapatid... kapamilya.
Habang pursigido si Leila sa pagaaral biglang nag ring ang phone niya.
Si Patrick tumatawag.
“Oh Pat, bakit ka tumawag?” she stop from studying.
“Uhm Leila... I just wanted to say...” Patrick pause for a moment. Kinabahan naman
si Leila dahil sa tono ng boses nito.
“Uyy, Pat! Ano ba yun? Pinapakaba mo naman ako eh!” Patrick still not answering
although he’s still on the line.
“I just wanted to say... I miss your cooking!” Leila got relived.
“You scared me you know! Akala ko naman kung anong nangyari sayo!” Patrick laughs.
“Where are you?”
“Sa bahay lang.”
“Let’s eat dinner! My treat!”
“I’m busy right now...”
“C’mon Lei! Ang tagal na nating di nakakapag bonding! Besides, g-graduate na ang
best friend mo... di mo man lang ba ako pagbibigyan?” Nagmamakaawa ang tono ni
Patrick.
Leila smile. “Hindi ba ko makaka-tangi sayo? Okay, okay. Nasan ka ba?”
“No. I’ll pick you up there.” bago pa makapag react si Leila ay ibinaba na ni
Patrick ang phone.
Niligpit naman ni Leila yung mga libro niya na nakakalat sa study table. Na siya ng
damit at nag prepare for Patrick.
Bumaba siya papuntang sofa and she saw Jed watching television. Tumingin ito sa
kanya but then Ibinaling ulit nito ang tingin sa tv. It made her feel like she was
stab by that looks. As if Jed doesn’t care about her. Naging malamig nanamang muli
ang pakikitungo nito sa kanya. As if they were living at their house, just the two
of them.
She was about to talk to Jed nang biglang lumabas ang mama ni Jed from the kitchen.
“Leila, you look so dressed up. Saan ka pupunta?”
She smiles at her mother-in-law. “I was just going out dinner with a friend.”
“Is it Chester and Charlotte? I missed those two!”
“Hindi po mama. Si Patrick po.”
“Patrick? You mean, Jed’s best friend?” hindi ipinahalata ng mama ni Jed na nagulat
siya sa sinabi ni Leila.
“Opo. We’re going out for dinner lang.” at eksaktong tumunog ang doorbell.
“I think it’s Patrick.” Sabi ni Leila and she open up the gate for Patrick.
“Hey, you seem to be slimmer than before Lei.” Naka ngising sabi ni Patrick while
Leila’s opening the gate for him.
“Pumasok ka muna... mama wants to see you.” ani Leila.

Dinala ni Leila si Patrick sa loob ng bahay. Patrick saw Jed sitting at the sofa
while Tita Andrea was standing in front of him smiling.
“Patrick!” Jed’s mom greet while her arms are open.
“Good evening po tita.” Lumapit si Patrick at niyakap ito. “I’ve missed you.”
“Me too. You look even taller than before! It’s been years since you visited this
house!”
“Yes tita. I think I was nine or ten years old before... we’re playing video games
and basketball before. Right Jed?” Patrick looks at Jed.
Jed’s eyes were pinned at the television but he smiles at the moment Patrick looks
at him.
“Oo, we’re both just young little boys before who likes to play video games and
basketball.” He turnd off the tv. He looks at Patrick and walks toward him. “So...
saan niyo balak pumunta ng asawa ko?”
The atmosphere been feel like cold. So cold between the two gentlemen.
“We’ll just having fun... I’ll take Lei out for dinner.” Patrick turn his looks on
Jed’s mom. “Tita, alis na po kami ni Lei. I’ll drive her back home before
midnight.” Patrick kiss on Jed’s mom’s chicks.
“Okay. Mag ingat kayong dalawa ha? Ingatan mo si Leila, Patrick.” Jed’s mom said as
if the two were on a date.
“Of course tita. I’m gonna take care of Lei...” Patrick looks at Jed. “I’m gonna
make sure she’ll be happy.” It feels like mayroong kuryenteng pumapagitan sa mga
tingin ni Jed at Patrick. A battle between the two guys.
Umalis na si Leila at Patrick. They were on the road.
“Patrick, saan ba tayo pupunta?” curious na tanong ni Leila.
“Sa hotel namin. May bagong dish ngayon and I want you to taste it.” nakangiting
sabi ni Patrick. “Besides, nasabi sakin ni Chester hindi ka na daw kumakain ng
lunch at dinner.”
“Silly. I’m fine Pat. See? Hindi pa naman ako nahihimatay diba?”
“I’m serious Leila Chan-Sy.” She got puzzled.
“Ha? Serious about what?” itinabi ni Patrick ang kotse sa gilid ng kalsada.
“Pat? Ano bang problema? Ano bang sinasabi mo?”
Humarap si Patrick kay Leila and he hug her. Nagulat si Leila. Hindi niya alam kung
anong ir-react niya. Bakit ‘yon ginagawa ni Patrick?
“I want you to be happy...” Hinigpitan pa ni Patrick ang pagkakayakap nito “I want

you to be happy by my side. Ayokong nakikita kang nasasaktan.”
“Pat...” Leila gently push him away. “Ano bang sinasabi mo?”
Natauhan si Patrick. He act so foolish. Napangiti siya at Napakamot ng ulo.
“Sorry... I’m such a fool... I let my emotions down. I’m sorry...” hinawakan ni
Patrick ang mga kamay ni Leila. “Nasasaktan ako kapag nakikita kitang nasasaktan.
At ayokong nasasaktan ka... I want you to be happy. You don’t deserve to be
miserable. I just want you to be happy... I’m sorry Laila...”
Leila smiles a bit. She hug her friend. “Thank you Patrick... you’re such a good
friend.” She said.
“No Leila...” Bumitiw si Patrick sa pagkakayakap ni Leila. “I don’t want us to be

just friends... I like you... and the more I see you hurting with Jed... I’m
starting to fall for you deeper and deeper each day.”

“I can be a better man for you. I’ll make you happy by my side than Jed’s. Please,
I want your sufferings end.”
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Treat your girl right, or someone else will.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Anne's Note:
HELLO GUYSSS! I"M SSSOOOOO MISSSSSSED YOUUUU!
Sorry. Late updates as ever!
hope you like the update! Enjoy!
God bless! =))
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 9
Chapter 9:

“Make sure na kasya kay Mrs Yen yung order niya ok?” mando ni Amanda sa fashion
designer niya.
“Yes Miss Amanda! I’ll make sure Mrs Yen will like my design. I’m sure it will
accord on her taste!” Kampanteng sabi ni Shane ang fashion designer ni Amanda.
“That’s what I am expecting from you Shane.” Sweet na sabi nito.
“Sige na sis, Babalik na ko sa working area ko para matapos ko na yung pre-order ni

Mrs Yen.” Amanda just nod at Shane. “Oh by the way, ano na nga palang gagawin natin
para sa designs ng gowns nina Mrs Sy? Yung... family ng friend mong si Jed?” Amanda
half smiled and turn around her chair backwards.
“I would like it to be black.” Amanda said plainly.
Nagtatakang napaisip si Shane. “Black? Are you sure sis? Bagay ba sa party ang
black para sa isang graduation party slash celebration gathering?”
“Tama lang.” Amanda kept on smiling. Looks like she’s planning something. “It will
be the biggest party I’ll ever handle...” humarap muli si Amanda kay Shane. “and I
prepare something special for Sy’s... especially for Jed...” Kinuha ni Amanda ang
picture na nakalapag sa kanyang table. She looks at it as if she wants to tear it.
“and his wife.” It was a picture of Jed together with Leila. It was a portrait been
taken for news purpose. At clothes mula sa shop ni Amanda ang ginamit ng mag asawa.
Amanda Patrcia Alfeche Lu. Isang business woman at a very young age. Young tycoon.
At the age of 16 she decided to manage her own business which is a clothing line
together with her partner, ang isa sa mga sikat na fashion designer sa Pilipinas—
Danielle Shane.
Gowns, fashion glam, casual... Amanda has it all. Isang napakalaking store ang
itinayo ni Amanda and it’s stable for years. Maraming tumatangkilik sa mga products
ni Amanda. She got the taste of every women. From clothes to accessories, shoes to
bags. She has it all! It’s a huge success for her nang magkaroon ng 2nd branch ang
business niya. She’s also well known for being an organizer. She became famous and
well known in the field of business. Hindi lang dahil sa tagumpay ng kanyang
negosyo kundi sa pangalang dinadala niya.
Si Amanda ay lumaki sa piling ng kanyang ina. She was filled with love and care by
her mother. What she wants, she gets it. But not all... except her father. Pinaka
iniingatan ng pamilya nila ang kanilang pangalan lalo na ang kanyang ama. All she
wants is love from her father but it’s hard to get it. Amanda’s dad were
disappointed when her mother gave birth to her. In-expect kasi ng ama niya na
magiging lalaki ang anak nila at ito ang magmamana ng negosyo nila ang Royal Real
Estate. It was unexpected for her father. Hindi na nagkaanak pang muli ang parents
ni Amanda. It was a miracle nang isilang siya ng kanyang mother. Hirap kasi sa
pagbubuntis ang mom niya.
But things get tougher when she turned 17 years old. Nalaman niyang hindi niya pala
totoong ama ang kinikilala niyang ama. She was the fruit of her mother’s mistake
back then. The father she keeps on reaching out ay hindi niya pala tunay na ama. It
made her realize na kaya pala kahit anong gawin niya para matuwa ang dad niya sa
kanya at ipagmalaki siya ay walang silbi. Dahil bunga siya ng isang pagkakamali.
Ang pagkakamali ng kanyang ina. Isang napakalaking kasalanan sa itinuturing niyang
ama. Dahil dito, mas Lalong pinahalagahan ni Amanda ang family image nila. She
accepted to be her father’s daughter. She loves her father kaya gagawin niya ang
lahat para matanggap siya nito.
*****
Dumiretsyo si Amanda sa bahay nang Matapos niya ang mga inaasikaso niya sa kanyang
store. Ngayon naman, kailangan naman niyang tapusin ang thesis niya sa school.
Amanda is smart and talented. Mahilig siyang mag pinta. It was her recreational
kapag may free time siya.
She found her father sitting at the sofa watching news.
Lumapit siya rito. “Good evening dad” she greets as she kiss on her father’s
cheeks.
“How’s your business doing?” usisa ng kanyang ama although hindi ito nakatingin sa
kanya.
“Well, marami kaming clients as of now and I think it’ll continue to be on top.”
Proud na sabi nito. Gusto niyang matuwa sa kanya ang kanyang ama kaya nagpupursigi
siyang maging best sa mata nito.
“What about your studies? Hindi mo naman napapabayaan ang pagaaral mo?” her dad
already look at her.
“Of course I’m doing my best even more at my studies dad. Last semester ko na po
‘to...” then she got edgy about it. it reminds her. “Uh... dad, you know...” she
can’t say it clear. Nahihiya siya yet kinakabahan. “If... you can come sa araw ng
graduation ko? It’ll be nice if you’re there... together with mom.”
Her dad turns off the tv. Tumayo it and make a pause. “I’m busy sa negosyo. I’m
sorry. Kasama mo naman ang mommy mo diba?” she felt broken. Again, na-reject
nanaman siya ng kanyang ama.
Her dad never tends to attend any awarding and recognitions sa school. Ni pre-
school, middle school, high school... never pang sumama ang ama niya.
Pumasok nang malungkot si Amanda sa kanyang kuwarto.
Sayang, cum laude pa naman ako. Gusto ko pa namang marinig niya ang speech ko. ani
Amanda sa kanyang isipan.
Kinuha niya ang phone niya at tinawagan si Jed. Agad naman nitong sinagot.
[Hello?]
“Jed, what are you doing right now?” umupo siya sa kama.
[Ginagawa ko yung thesis ko. Tapos mo na ba yung iyo?]
“No. Hindi pa...” a few seconds of silence came.
[Anong nangyari? Did your dad scolded you again? Don’t tell me pumunta ka ngayon sa
bar nila Spencer?]
“Nah, wala na nga tayong time dalawa para makapag bonding dalawa dahil sa school
works and business kaya hindi po ako makakapuntang bar noh!” they bothe laugh.
[Then what’s your problem?]
Humiga si Amanda sa kanyang kama. Pinipilit niyang hindi maiyak. “It’s dad... hindi
siya Makakarating sa graduation natin.”
[Baka busy lang ang dad mo. You understand better right?]
“It’s hard for me Jed. All my life ginawa ko ang lahat para maging best sa mata ni
Daddy but it’s still not worth it for him to notice me.”
[Huwag ka nang malungkot jan. Smile, nandito ako...]

She instantly smile. “I know that. Kaya nga mahal na mahal kita eh...” she paused.
“Kahit na alam kong may kahati ako sa’yo... I’m jealous! Nagseselos ako dahil may
portrait kayong dalawa ni Leila. It seems like the whole world knows that she is
your wife and she has all the right from you... while me, I’m always at the
bottom... nakatingin lang sa inyong sa itaas while my feelings we’re kept inside
and want to burst out at this moment.” Pagtatampo nito.
[Amanda, haven’t we talk about this before? Leila... she’s my... wife. And I have
responsibility of taking care of her.]
“So mahal mo siya?” hindi agad nakasagot si Jed. It made Amanda get jealous.
[Amanda--]
“Bakit di mo masagot?” she got pissed.
[Leila’s important to me. We grew up together, we lived together... she’s like my

guardian angel.]
“Jed... I want you to be part for the rest of my life. I want to be the one who’s
been taking care of you. aren’t you feeling the same way?”
[Yes, I do. But--]
“Then this for the sake of our relationship...” she’s been serious and determined
about what she was saying. “Makipag divorce ka na kay Leila hanggang maaga pa. end
her sufferings. Both of you! hindi mo naman siya mahal diba? Pareho lang kayong
nahihirapan.”
[I’m sorry... I can’t do that. I can’t let her go...]
“What? Bakit? Dahil ba sa mana? Dahil nakalagay sa testament ng father mo na

mapapunta sa’yo ang kumpanya at ang iba pang pamana sa’yo hanggat nananatili kayong
magkasama sa iisang bubong? Hanggat kasal kayo at magkaroon ng anak? Jed c’mon!
malapit mo nang makuha yung company niyo. A few months then you’ll be the new CEO.
Ganoon ba talaga kahirap gawin ang hinihiling ko?” she really burst out. Tumayo
siya sa pagkakahiga at dumiretsyo sa balkonahe ng kanyang kuwarto.
[Yes! It’s hard for me. Oo, you’re right about the testament pero hindi lang yun
ang dahilan...]
“Then what!? So, mahal mo na talaga siya? pano naman ako Jed? Pano na tayo?”
[It’s just, hindi ko pa kayang mawala si Leila sa tabi ko. she’s been with me for
years. We build memories but it’s not good. I-I just can’t let go of her right now.
Give me sometime...]
“Make it fast Jed. Alam mong ayokong pinaghihintay ako.” She hanged up.
Ayaw na niyang makipag away pa kay Jed. It’ll just end up on nothing. Wala naman
siyang mapapala kung ipagpapatuloy lang niya ang pakikipag away dito. Besides, she
feels love and warmth in the arms of Jed. Si Jed ang nagbibigay sa kanya ng
kaligayahan. He’s the only thing she’s holding onto. And it’ll takes everything for
Jed just to hold on her forever. Hindi niya makakayang mawala si Jed.
*****
“This is great!” ani Mrs Yen habang tinitingnan ang sarili sa salamin. “It looks
wonderful my dear.” She turns into Amanda and smiles. “I know you’re the best
person I can rely on. The fabrics great! I’m comfortable with it. So, when will you
and Shane release your collection for the month?” excited na tanong ni Mrs Yen.
“Don’t worry tita. I’ll inform you for the details of the runway show. Will I can
count on you?” panlalambing ni Amanda.
“Of course my dear.” Humarap itong muli sa salamin at pinagmasdan ang sarili habang
suot-suot ang damit na MTO (Made To Order) mula sa shop ni Amanda.
Bigla namang nag ring ang phone ni Amanda. It was Mrs Sy—Jed’s mom.
“Excuse me for a while Mrs Yen, I’ll just have to answer this call outside.” Paalam
nito at lumabas na ng fitting room.
Dumiretsyo siya sa loob ng kanyang opisina.
“Hello, Mrs Sy?”
[Hello Amanda, I’m just wondering if you can come here at our house tonight?]
Kinuha niya ang isang folder mula sa kanyang desk. “Yeah sure.”
[Great then, you can eat dinner here and we can talk about the plans for the party
this coming Sunday. ]
Amanda half smile as if she was talking to Jed’s mom in front of her. “Of course,
I’ll see you and your family later.”
[Thank you dear. I’ll be expecting you then?]
“Opo.” Then Mrs Sy hangs up the phone.
Bigla namang pumasok si Shane sa loob ng opisina ni Amanda.
“Sis! Success! Nagustuhan ni Mrs Yen yung design ko!” agad na napatigil si Shane
nang makitang nakangiting mag-isa ang ka-partner. “Sis? Okay ka lang?” lumapit pa
ito sa kanya para i-check kung okay ba talaga ang kaibigan.
“Prepare my dress for tonight. I have to attend dinner at Sy’s residence.” Ani
Amanda.
*****
Tama lang ang oras ng pagdating ni Amanda sa bahay ng mga Sy. She press the door
bell and the maid opens the gate for her. Hinatid naman ng maid si Amanda papuntang
sala at doon mag hintay sa pagdating ng ina ng minamahal niyang si Jed.
Wala pang ilang minuto ang nakalilipas ng dumating ang ina ni Jed.
“Oh my gosh! It’s good to see you my dear!” bati ni Mrs Sy. Nakipag beso-beso pa
ito kay Amanda.
“I’m finally glad to be in your house Mrs Sy. You’re even more gorgeous than
pictures!” papuri nito.
“You flattered me much hija. Oh by the way, you and Jed are friends right?”
“Yes po. We’ve been friends since first year of college.”
“Great then! Hindi ka mahihirapan para sa party ng mga anak ko...” Mrs Sy clings on
Amanda’s arm and brought her at the dining room. “You know... my childerns, Jed and
Leila.” Itinuturing ni Mrs Sy na tunay na anak si Leila at lehitimong miyembro ng
pamilya.
“Maupo ka na hija. Bababa na rin si Leila at si Fei. Si Jed, he’ll be joining us in

a few minutes. He’s on his way kasi from the office.”
Amanda knows it. she called Jed before she came at their house pero walang kaalam-
alam si Jed na bibisita si Amanda sa kanilang bahay.
Habang hinihintay ang mga anak ay nagkuwentuhan muna si Amanda at ang nanay ni Jed.
“So, what’s the plan for the party this week?” usisa ng nanay ni Jed.
“Actually Mrs Sy--”
“Just call me ‘tita’ okay?” they both smiles at each other.
“What I’m saying tita is, I have two options for you to choose. Either a masquerade
party or an black and white party. Either of the two will be a good theme.”
Nagisip ng maigi si Mrs Sy. Iniisip niya kung ano sa dalawa ang mas maganda.
“I don’t think black and white would be appropriate for a celebration party. But
masquerade would be nice! I like it! All persons invited will be wearing their
mysterious mask. Oh! That will be exciting!”
“Then it’s settle then tita?” tumungo-tango lang si Mrs Sy. “I’ll be giving you
Shane’s designs by tomorrow. Everything will be perfect and nice.”
*****
Habang nag uusap si Amanda at Mrs Sy sa baba, busy naman si Leila sa pag babasa ng
lessons. She’s determined to show off to her family that she deserves their
acknowledgement. That she deserves their attention. That deserves their importance.
That she deserves their love.
Habang puspusan ang pagaaral ni Leila ay biglang kumatok si Fei.
“Ate Lei? Are you there?”
“Yeah. Pasok ka.” Ani Leila habang nakaupo sa harapan ng study table niya.
Pumasok na sa loob ng kuwarto si Fei. “Sorry to disturb you...” mahinang sabi ni

Fei.
Umupo ito sa kama ni Leila at ipinatong ang isang unan sa kanyang lap.
“It’s ok.” Ani Leila.
“How long have you been studying ate?”
“Since I got home from school.” Tila na shock si Fei sa sinabi ni Leila.
“Are you serious?” tuluyan nang humiga si Fei mula sa pagkakaupo sa kama. “Ilang
days ka nang ganyan. You don’t eat properly na... baka mag kasakit ka na niyan.”
“I’m fine. I’m fine. I’ll be fine as long as worth it tong ginagawa ko.”
“Does kuya even care about it? You know, kuya should know about this. At least.
Baka mamaya bigla ka na lang mag kasakit niyan.”
“Kahit na sabihin ko pa kay Jed alam ko namang hindi niya ako papansinin.”
“Oh! By the way!” agad na napabangon si Fei mula sa pagkakahiga. “There’s a woman
sa baba. I heard friend daw siya ni kuya. Nadinig ko silang nag uusap ni mama dun
sa dining table.”
“Sino?”
“Yung event planner para sa party ni kuya. Amanda Lu? Kilala siya ng mga friends ko
kasi trendsetter siya pagdating sa fashion trends.”
Biglang kinabahan si Leila. Nasa bahay na ito ngayon ang babaeng minamahal ng
lalaking mahal niya.
“T-talaga?”
Biglang may kumatok sa pintuan.
“Ma’am Leila? Pinapababa po kayo ni Ma’am Fei sa baba ng mama niyo.”
“O-okay sige baba na kami.” Hindi na makapag isip ng maigi si Leila. Hindi niya
alam kung anong gagawin niya. Nandito ngayon si Amanda at magkakaharap pa silang
dalawa.
Kabado siyang Bumaba kasama si Fei.
Natagpuan nila si Amanda kasama ang kanyang mama na nakaupo sa dining table at
nagku-kuwentuhan.
“Ma!” pambungad ni Fei to cut the conversation.
“Oh, sweetie! You’re here na!” tuwang tuwang sabi ni Mrs Sy. Lumapit ito kay Leila
at Fei. “Amanda, I would like you to meet my daughters.” Tumayo naman si Amanda.
Hindi makatingin si Leila ng diretsyo dito. “This is Fei my bunso...” pakilala ni
Mrs Sy kay Fei.
“Hi Ms Amanda, it’s a pleasure to meet you!” tuwang-tuwang sabi ni Fei as if she
saw her idol.
Nakipag shake hands naman si Amanda dito. “Nice to meet you too Fei.”
“I heard so much about you. I’m a fan of you and Shane!” masayang sabi pa ni Fei.
“Aw, thank you.” sweet na sabi ni Amanda.
“And I know you know my other daughter right? This is Leila, Jed’s wife.” Pagi-
introduce ni Mrs Sy kay Leila.
Lalong bumilis ang tibok ng puso ni Leila. She has no choice but to face her.
Slowly, Leila faced Amanda. Nakangiti lang si Amanda at diretsyo ang tingin sa
kanya.
“Hi Leila, we’ve meet again.” Then Amanda reach out for Leila’s hands.
Leila reach on Amanda’s hands. “I-it’s nice to see you again Ms Lu.” Pinipilit ni
Leila na mag paka relax.
Nagsimula na silang kumain ng hapunan.
“So tita papupuntahin ko na lang po dito bukas si Shane for fitting. I won’t be
available tomorrow po, it’s our final exams na po kasi.” Sabi ni Amanda.
“Cool! You’re doing two things at the same time!” papuri ni Fei.
Natawa naman si Amanda sa reaksyon ng kapatid ni Jed. “Thank you Fei. But I’m sure
Leila’s more doing her best.” Natigilan si Leila at napatingin kay Amanda.
“Balita ko you’re consistent at the first ranking sa yearly mock examination. And
not only with that but with the examinations ranking you’re at first.” Papuri ni
Amanda dito.
“T-thank you.” wala nang masabi pang iba si Leila.
“You’re always at first so keep it up.” Amanda added.

“I’ll always be the first.” Leila suddenly just verbalized those words. It stopped
Amanda.
A few moments of silence came.
Suddenly, an engine was heard. It was Jed’s car. Biglang bumilis muli ang tibok ng
puso ni Leila. Hindi niya na alam kung papano itatago ang nararamdaman. Kung ano
ang magiging reaksyon niya kapag nagkita si Jed at Amanda ngayon sa harap ng
pamilyang itinuturing niya.
“I think it’s kuya.” Ani Fei. Amanda got thrilled. She was waiting for Jed to came.
*****
Napansin ni Jed ang isang pulang kotse na naka-park sa labas ng kanilang bahay. It
looks familiar to him yet he just ignored it at ipinasok na ang sasakyan sa garahe.
Pinagbuksan naman siya ng maid ng pintuan.
“Good evening po sir Jed. May kanina pa po kayo hinihintay ng mama niyo.” Anang
maid.
Nagtatakang inabot ni Jed ang bag. “Bakit po?”
“May bisita po kayo sir.”
Sino kayang bisita namin ngayon? Ani Jed sa isipan.
Agad na dumiretsyo si Jed sa dining table kung saan niya nadirinig ang boses ng
kanyang ina’t kapatid na naguusap.
“Really? Kuya sleeps inside the class?” ani Fei.
Nagulat si Jed nang makita si Amanda na nakaupo at kumakain kasama ang kanyang ina,
kapatid... at ang kanyang asawa.
Natigilan ang lahat.
“You’re here?” pambungad ni Jed.
Napalingon ang ina ni Jed sa likuran kung saan naka tayo ang binata. Agad na tumayo
si Mrs Sy at Nilapitan si Jed.
“I invite her para mapag usapan na namin ang plans for the party this coming Sunday
Jed. Come, sumabay ka na sa amin mag dinner!” aya ng ina.
Nakatingin si Jed kay Amanda as if they were talking eye to eye. As if Amanda’s
saying umupo ka sa tabi ko. Napatingin naman si Jed kay Leila na nasa katapat na
upuan ni Amanda. Both ladies having a vacant seat.
Leila’s expecting Jed to sit beside Amanda. Besides, it was his proclaimed
girlfriend. Napakalaking kasinungalingan naman kung uupo si Jed sa tabi ni Leila.
But things really got twisted up. Leila, unexpectedly finds herself looking at Jed
while it was sitting beside her.
She can’t explain what she’s been feeling. She got teary eyes. Hindi niya
mapigilang tumulo ang kanyang mga luha. Masaya ang puso niya.
Tumingin sa kanya si Jed and give her a smile. Just enough for her to avoid to lose
her emotions out. Then tumingin si Jed kay Amanda.
Amanda got pissed. As if she was asking to Jed Why by her looks to him.
Natapos ang dinner.

“I should be going na po tita.” Sabi ni Amanda.
“Aalis ka na agad?” sabi ni Fei.
“Why don’t you stay for a while muna hija? Is that really urgent?” sabi naman ng
mama ni Jed.
“Yes tita. Tinatapos ko po kasi yung thesis ko.” napatingin naman si Amanda kay
Jed. “But actually tita, pumunta rin po ako dito for another reason...” she half
smiles at Jed. “I just want to ask Jed about his thesis. There’s something I’m
confused kasi.”
“Ganun ba... then you guys should do your thing.” Sabi naman ni Mrs Sy.
“But I’m feeling awkward kasi baka masamain ni Leila.” The Amanda turned her looks
at Leila. Agad namang naibaling ni Leila ang tingin kay Amanda.
“B-bakit naman? wala namang m-masama kung may gusto kang itanong kay Jed.”
Nanghihina na si Leila. She can’t stand this anymore. Acting like she doesn’t know
anything. Acting she doesn’t know nothing at all!
“Really? You’re a nice person talaga Leila!” ani Amanda.
“Follow me.” matipid na sabi ni Jed at tumayo na sa upuan. He was referring to

Amanda.
Agad namang Sumunod si Amanda kay Jed. Dumiretsyo sila sa kuwarto ni Jed. Habang si
Leila, Sinusundan ng tingin ang dalawa hanggang sa makapasok ito sa kuwato.
Nang sumara na ang pintuan tila nanlambot ang buong katawan ni Leila. Is it game
over for her?
Hinawakan naman ni Mrs Sy ang kamay ni Leila. “Hija, are you okay?”
Hindi na napigilan ng mga luha ni Leila na tumulo. Ngumiti siya sa kanyang mama at
tumungo-tango habang pinupunasan ang kanyang luha. “Okay lang po ako mama.”
SA LOOB naman ng kuwarto ni Jed. Pilit na nagpapakahinahon ni Jed para maitago sa
kanyang ina at kapatid ang totoong dahilan nang pagpunta ni Amanda.
“Anong bang naisip mo Amanda at nagpunta ka dito ha?” ani Jed.
Cool na cool na umupo si Amanda sa kama ni Jed. “I just want to know your family.”
“Well this is not the right time Amanda. You know what will Leila would feel right?
As much as possible ayokong masasaktan siya dahil sa atin.”
Hindi na nakapag pigil pa si Amanda. “C’mon Jed! Matagal nang nasasaktan si Leila!
I just want her to see na wala talagang patutunguhan yung relationship niyong
dalawa! Besides, hindi lang naman ikaw ang ipinunta ko dito. It’s also because of
my job.”
Tumayo si Amanda at lumapit kay Jed na nakatayo sa may balkonahe. She hugs Jed from
its back.
“I want to be with you... I want to be part of your family Jed.” Paglalambing ni

Amanda.
“Don’t do any crazy things at the party Amanda.” Pagbabanta ni Jed. Humarap si Jed
kay Amanda.
“yes I will.” She smiles at Jed.
She locked her arms on Jed’s neck while Jed’s supporting on her waist.
“Bakit hindi ka umupo sa tabi ko kanina?” pagtatampo ni Amanda.
“It’s because I have to do the right thing. It’s not our time Amanda.” Ani Jed.
Amanda traces Jed’s forehead down to its chin. “Is this our time now?” flirty na
sabi ni Amanda.
“I guess?” ani Jed. They both smile at each other.
“Do you love me?”

“Yes.”
“Then prove it to me.” buong lakas ng loob na sabi ni Amanda. “Kiss me, Jed.”
As if they were in another place. As if they were the only ones who’s existing. Jed
kisses Amanda on her lips passionately. As if they own the world.
Hindi nila alam may ibang taong nakakakita pala sa kanila. It was Leila.
As if she was like a steel enduring all those heart aches. She was quietly watching
the two kissing. Napahawak siya sa kanyang kamay para pigilan ang paghagulgol.
Hindi niya kinaya ang sakit na nararamdaman sa kanyang puso kaya’t tumakbo siya
palabas ng bahay.
Tumakbo siya hanggang sa makalayo siya sa bahay. Nang mapagod siya sa pagtakbo’y
naupo siya sa tabi ng isang poste. She keeps on crying.
Eksaktong tumunog naman ang kanyang phone. It was Patrick who was calling.
She immediately answer the call.
“Pat...” nangingiyak na boses ni Leila.
[Lei? Are you okay? Bakit ka umiiyak?] aalalang-alala ang tono ng boses ni Patrick.
“Hindi ko na kaya... please, I need you right now...” Leila’s desperate to burst
out all of her emotions. She can’t conceal her feelings anymore. She needs someone
to talk to.
[Nasaan ka? Pupuntahan kita.]

Sinabi ni Leila kung nasaan siya. walang alinlangang pinuntahan ni Patrick si
Leila.
*****
Sa kabilang banda nama’y walang kaalam-alam si Jed na muli nanaman niyang sinaktan
si Leila. Jed and Amanda we’re still talking. They were savouring the time.
Ilang oras ring nag stay si Amanda sa bahay ng mga Sy.
“I think it’s time for you to go home now.” Sabi ni Jed kay Amanda na nakayakap pa
sa kanya.
“You want me to leave already?” sarcastic na sabi ni Amanda.
“It’s already late. Hindi mo pa tapos yung thesis mo diba?”
“I already finished it last night.”
“Mine’s not. So you should get going now.” Tinanggal ni Jed ang pagkaka lock ng mga
braso ni Amanda sa kanyang bewang.
“Will you drive me home?” pangunglit ni Amanda. Napakamot naman ng ulo si Jed.
“Dala mo yung kotse mo diba?”
“Sige na please?” pagmamakaawa ni Amanda. Wala namang nagawa si Jed.
Bumababa na sila sa sala. Nakita nilang nakaupo sa sala si Fei at Naglalaro sa

kanyang tablet.
“Fei, nasaan si mama?” tanong ni Jed sa kapatid.

“Nasa kitchen...” Fei said coldly. She even don’t bother looking at Jed either
Amanda.
“Fei, I’ll be going na.” sabi naman ni Amanda.
“Yeah right.” Fei even give more colder answer to Amanda. Ipinagtaka naman ito ni
Amanda. Kanina lang, Fei welcomes her warmly and now it was acting weird and cold
to her.
Hindi na lang niya ito pinansin at lumabas na kasama si Jed. Ibinigay ni Amanda ang
susi kay Jed. Pumasok na sila sa loob ng kotse.
“What’s wrong with Fei?” Amanda can’t help asking about Jed’s sister.
“Bakit?”
“Well, kaninang pagdating ko she welcomed me with an excitement and now na aalis na
ko she was as cold as ice to me.” Amanda explains.
“Mabilis lang talaga ang mood swings ni Fei. She’s playing games kanina diba? Baka
ayaw lang niyang paistorbo.”
“Ganun?”
“Just don’t mind my sister okay?” ani Jed sabay hawak sa kamay ni Amanda.
Amanda pouted her lips. “But I wanted to be close with your sister.”
Napailing-iling si Jed. “Magiging close din kayo don’t worry.” Jed cheers up
Amanda.
He already started the engine at nag drive na si Jed paalis.
Nasa bintana naman si Fei pinagmamasdan ang pag alis ng kotse ni Amanda. She saw
her brother drives Amanda’s car. She can’t keep her feelings been burst out. After
what she had saw a while ago.
Fei saw her brother kissing Amanda. Nakita niya kasing umiiyak si Leila patakbo
palabas ng bahay galing sa taas. She got curious kaya umakyat siya sa taas. Nakita
niyang nakabukas ang kuwarto ng kanyang kapatid. Balak niyang pumasok sa loob para
kausapin pa si Amanda but she got paralyzed when she saw the two kissing.
She feels sorry for Leila. At galit naman ang nararamdaman niya para sa kuya niya
at kay Amanda. She didn’t expect na ganoon pala talaga ang tunay na ugali ng
iniidolo niya. Hindi niya inaakalang isa palang ahas ang isang tinitingala at
hinahangaan ng mga kaibigan niya.
Jed and Amanda we’re still on their way palabas ng subdivision.
Amanda suddenly notice a familiar car na nakahinto sa kantong daraanan nila.
“Is that Patrick’s car?” sabay turo ni Amanda sa isang itim na Montero.
Napansin din ito ni Jed. Binagalan niya ang takbo ng kotse to confirm their
thoughts. Ikinagulat naman ni Jed nang makita niyang si Patrick nga iyon, ang
kanyang best friend.
And to make it more shocking for Jed is to see his wife together with his best
friend. Lalo pa niyang ikinagulat nang halikan ni Patrick si Leila sa noo at
niyakap ito.
Hindi ma-explain ni Jed ang nararamdaman. As if inaagawan siya ng kanyang

pagmamayari. As if someone stole something important to him. Napakagulo ng feelings
ni Jed. He’s been in loved with Amanda yet he’s feeling infatuated with Leila.
But Jed keeps on driving away from the two.
A few moments of silence came between Amanda and Jed. They were both in shock
especially Jed. He cannot reciprocate his feelings. Something’s been messing up on
his mind down to his heart. Tila Nagtatalo ang kalooban ni Jed.
But then he gave up. Nasa tapat na sila ng gate nga subdivision at palabas na sila
papunta ng highway when Jed turns off the engine.
“Is there something wrong Jed?” pagtataka ni Amanda. Alam na niya kasi sa sarili
niya kung ano ang mangyayari yet she can’t accept it.
“Yes, there’s something wrong with me.” tila wala sa sarili si Jed. “I change my
mind, drive home yourself Amanda. I’ll call you later.” At Nagmadali na itong
lumabas ng kotse.
Hindi manlang pinagsalita ni Jed si Amanda. Jed run as fast as he can para balikan
si Leila at Patrick.
*****
Sa kabilang banda naman, tumigil na sa pag-iyak si Leila. She’s feeling better now.
“Thanks Patrick... thank you for coming here and letting me cry.” Nakangiting sabi
ni Leila kay Patrick.
Patrick taps her head gently. “Sus. Para saan pa’t naturingan mo akong best friend
kung hindi kita dadamayan diba? Sabi ko naman sa’yo, nandito lang ako sa tabi kahit
na anong mangyari... kahit na ilang beses ka pang bumagsak, kahit na ilang beses ka
pang lumubog sa nararamdaman mo... nandito lang ako. Handa akong saluhin ka. Handa
akong protektahan ka.”
Leila smiles again. “I’m sorry I can’t--”
“Shh. Let’s just not talk about my own feelings. I’m doing this... well yes,
because of what I’m feeling for you. pero hindi lang ayun ‘yon Lei. Dahil best
friend kita kaya ako nandito ngayon sa tabi mo okay?”
Sumandal naman si Leila sa balikat ni Patrick. “If only I can dictate my own heart
to stop loving him... Matagal ko na sanang napigilan ‘to...”
“Leila!” nagulat si Patrick at Leila sa nakakatakot na boses na nagmula sa likod

nila.
It was Jed walking towards them. Napatayo naman si Patrick at Leila.
“G**O KA!” galit na sabi ni Jed at walang pakundangang Sinapak si Patrick.

Napahiga si Patrick sa kalsada.
“Mas *a*o ka Jed!” at binawian ng suntok ang kaibigan.
Tuluyan nang nag away ang magkaibigang Jed at Patrick. Hindi alam ni Leila ang
gagawin. Hindi niya alam kung papano aawatin ang dalawa.
Kusa namang tumigil ang dalawa sa pagsusuntukan but Patrick was the one who’s lying
on the street. Nilapitan naman siya ni Leila.
“Pat, are you okay?” pagaalalang sabi ni Leila. Lalo naman itong ikinagalit ni Jed.
Hinila niya si Leila palayo kay Patrick. “Tara na sa bahay.” Utos ni Jed but
Leila’s refusing to.
Hinila naman ni Patrick ang isang kamay ni Leila papalapit sa kanya at Sinapak si
Jed. But Jed immediately puts his fist on Patrick’s face. Akmang susuntukin muli ni
Jed si Patrick ngunit pumagitan na si Leila sa gitna.
“Jed tama na!” awat ni Leila.
Humarap si Leila kay Patrick. “Umuwi ka na Patrick. Sige na please, ayokong

masaktan ka pa...” pakiusap nito.
Sinunod ni Patrick ang pakiusap ni Leila na labag sa kanyang kalooban. He wanted to

take Leila with him away from Jed. Sumakay na siya sa kanyang sasakyan at nag drive
na palayo. He can’t help himself but to watch the two from his side mirror.
Nakita niyang hinawakan ni Jed ang isang braso si Leila. Naapakan ni Pat ang break.
He can’t leave Leila with Jed. Gusto niya itong protektahan from his best friend.
Sa sobrang galit ay sinutok ni Patrick ang manibela ng paulit-ulit.
Sa kabilang banda nama’y punog-puno ng galit si Jed habang si Leila ay natatakot sa

gagawin ng asawa. Hinawakan ni Jed ang kanang braso ni Leila nang napaka higpit.
“Aray! Jed bitawan mo ko. Nasasaktan ako!” pagpupumiglas ni Leila.
“Mag-uusap tayo sa bahay.” At kinaladkad ni Jed si Leila Papasok ng bahay.
Hinila ni Jed si Leila papunta sa kuwarto niya. Jed lock the door. Itinulak niya si
Leila sa kama.
“What are you doing ha? Akala ko hindi mo kayang gawin yung ganun Leila!” ani Jed.
Nakaupo si Leila sa kama habang nakatayo sa harapan niya si Jed. She got hurt about
what Jed said. It made her burst her feelings for her husband.
“Akala ko hindi ka kagaya ng ibang babae Leila! So ano? Balak mo na bang lumayo
kasama si Patrick? Ha?”
“Ako pa ngayon ang masama Jed?” tumayo siya. “Sa tingin mo ba hindi ako nasasaktan
na makita kayong dalawa ni Amanda na masaya ha? Sa tingin mo ba ok lang sa akin na
makita ko kayong naghahalikan ni Amanda ha? Sa tingin mo ba hindi ako nasasaktan?”
Itinulaktulak ni Leila si Jed. “Sino ba sa ating dalawa ang nangangaliwa ha?”

nangibabaw nanamang muli ang emosyon ni Leila. Umagos nang umagos ang mga luha sa
kanyang mga mata. “Ang sama-sama mo Jed! Ang sama-sama mo...” paulit-ulit na sabi
ni Leila.
Jed puts a force on his hands and block Leila’s. “Akin ka lang Leila...” Jed’ s act
crazily. he was obsessed with Leila.
He pinned her into the wall and start kissing her harshly. As if he was possess to
be obsessed with his wife. But Leila gathered all her strength to push Jed away.
Binigyan niya si Jed nang isang napakalakas na sampal.
“Nakakadiri ka Jed.” Mariing sinabi ni Leila. “Oo! Asawa mo ako. Pero hindi ako
laruang di makina! Hindi ako basta-basta isang pagmamayari mo lang Jed! Asawa mo
ko!”
Tuluyan nang umalis si Leila sa kuwarto ni Jed.

Bigla namang natauhan si Jed. Napaupo siya sa kama.
“What I have done?”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
Just because her eyes don’t tear, it doesn’t mean her heart doesn’t cry...
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-
Anne's Note: Hello guys? How's life? ://
BUSY SEASON! Sorry, busy po kasi ako sa iba pang gawain and they we're much
important than typing and giving you an update guys. Sorry po talaga! Mas focused
po kasi ngayon ang attention ko sa studies ko. But I thanked each one of you who
understands that :))THANK YOU! HINDI PO AKO MAGSASAWANG MAG THANK YOU SA INYO
HANGGANG SA MATAPOS KO ANG STORY NA 'TO! *U*
So? You like the update? Just post your suggestions, reactions, comments on the
comment box below. i'll accept it! Wether it is GOOD or BAD. :DD
GOD BLESS! =))
=================
Chapter 10
Chapter 10:
AN: Leila’s POV =))

“You look fantastic hija!” papuri sa akin ni mama.
Isinusuot na kasi sa akin ni Shane yung gown and in an hour magsisimula na ang
party.
Ngumiti ako kay mama.
“Mukhang hindi naman po yata bagay sa akin.” I down myself.
“Koloka ka sis! Bagay kaya sayo! Ang ganda-ganda ng figure mo oh! Bumagay sa kulay
ng skin mo yung gown!” Shane utters.
Ang ganda kasi ng gown na ‘to. mukhang hindi bagay sa akin.
I imagine Amanda will be the better person to wear this and not me. Besides, she
was the one that Jed loves and not me. All I was holding for was the law that
states us to be husband and wife.
Ngayon ko lang naisip, next month na pala ang wedding anniversary namin ni Jed. How
would it be this year? Ilang taon na nga ba kaming kasal?
It’s getting tougher habang patagal ng patagal... Habang humahaba ang taon ng
pagsasama namin.
“Is there something wrong? Leila?” ani mama. “You’ve been spaced out.”
I smiled a half. I didn’t realize that I am spaced out. “I’m sorry mama. I was just
thinking of something.” I reasoned out.
“Are you okay? The party’s about to start.” Mama holds my hands. “Is there
something wrong hija?”
I smiled habang umiiling-iling. “Wala po mama. I was just wondering... if darating

ba ang pamilya ko.” Pinipilit kong hindi umiyak. “My family... that I’m longing to
see. Yung pamilyang gusto kong makilala. Will they come mama?” I looked at mama as
I smile. I want to think in a positive way. I wanted to think that they’ll come
because they wanted to see me. that they recognize me... that they love me.
Mama hugs me. “They’ll come.”
*****
THE PARTY GETS STARTED. All people wearing their classic gowns. It’s like we were
in the Old English period. Woman wearing heavy gowns and tall hairs. Gentleman
wears tuxedo and some wears American coat. It is such a nice party. Karamihan ng
mga gowns na nakikita ko ay galing kay Shane at Amanda. They’ve got their business
really working good. Amanda running through their textiles while Shane doing the
design. And together they have come up with a shop that is really in the hot spot
right now. Sikat at kilala ang mga gawa nila. Amanda putting up her name at the
top. She had a good image in the eyes of everyone who knows her. She’s the perfect
girl.
Isinuot ko na yung mask ko. Sabi ni Shane kasama daw sa protocol ng party ang
pagsusuot ng mask. That was Amanda’s all idea. Sabi pa ni Shane, each person here
at the party has their partner. What do I mean? Bawat babae at lalaki ay may
kaparehong mask. And when the grand ball started, they will look for their partner
and dance. Sabi ni Shane, dahil kami daw ni Jed ang main part ng event na ‘to we
have this special mask that makes us the partner sa sayaw. It makes me happy. I can
dance with Jed the whole night... I can be with him for the whole night.
Naglakad-lakad ako para hanapin si Char at Ches. Wala kasi akong kilala dito. Hindi
ko sila ma-mukhaan dahil sa mask. I texted them what’s the color I’m wearing and
what kind of gown right now. I kept on looking on everyone. I keep on searching for
someone whom will I recognize. Whom I know.
Naglalakad-lakad ako nang may humarang na lalaki sa harapan ko.
Nakasuot siya ng black mask matching a black American suit. I can see he was
smiling at me kasi kita ko yung bibig niya. Yung mga mata lang niya kasi ang
natatakpan. Halos lahat naman ng mga mask dito sa party ay half lang—yung mata yung
natatakpan. Wala pa akong nakikita na nakasuot ng whole mask.
“Hi Miss, wanna tag along with me?” he offers as he bent down in front of me. As if
we we’re in the Medieval period we’re upper class people gathers along. As if I am
a princess whom he needs to make a vow as a sign of respect.
But then, I know too myself hindi ko kilala ang lalaking ‘to. Hindi familiar ang
boses niya.
“Sorry but I’m looking for someone.” I rejected. naglakad na ako palayo doon at
naghanap muli ng kakilala.
Mama told me I should speak with the other guest even if I don’t know them as a
sign of respect na rin dahil dumalo sila sa gathering na ‘to. But inside of
wanting to see my friends... I wanted to be on Jed’s side right now. But where is
he?
Nakaramdam ako ng lungkot. Higit isang oras na rin akong nagpaikot-ikot sa apat na
sulok ng hall na ‘to pero wala ni isa kay Charlotte, Chester or Jed ang nakita
ko... even Patrick, I think he is not around. Pakiramdam ko tuloy ngayon ay mag isa
lang ako. Umupo na lang ako sa tabi ng mga pagkain. Hindi naman ako nagugutom pero
parang may giyera sa loob ng sikmura ko. I feel like I am about to bloat but I am
not. Well, maybe I was just nervous.
Suddenly, biglang tumigil ang pagtugtog ng classical music. Then the lights went
dimmer and focused on the stage. Nakita kong may isang babae ang naglalakad paakyat
ng stage at Kinuha niya yung microphone. She was followed by the spotlight hanggang
sa nakatayo na nga siya sa stage.
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen! Tonight, as we all know is a special night for
one of the most successful young man in business. And now that he’s about to
graduate in college...”
It was Amanda’s voice and I am sure of it. besides, siya naman ang nag plan ng
party na ‘to. everything was according to her plans.
“For the business partners and colleague of this young tycoon, let us all give him
a warm of applause... Mr. Jed Sy!” sa dami ng mga iniisip ko ngayon, I realize na
tinawag na pala si Jed sa stage.
Nag sipag tayuan naman yung mga bisita and so as I do.
Ngayon ko lang nakita si Jed. He was wearing a black suit with a gold shinning mask
and a feather around it. Maybe he was in his headquarters hangga’t di siya
naipapakilala.
I try my best to pay attention on every words he said. Part of me expecting him to
mention me on his speech. Sobrang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko. kinakabahan ako sa
speech ni Jed, although I know the truth with in me na pinapaasa ko lang ang sarili
ko. But I as long as there is that hope I’ll never stop in hoping that one day
he’ll realize na nandito lang ako sa tabi niya.
He was holding a glass of wine habang nakatayo siya sa stage.
“First of all I would like to thank all of you who went in here tonight, I am very
happy for your warm thanks. I would also like to greet Mrs Anita Chan and her
family even though they didn’t come and join our celebration tonight, I would like
to thank them for being part of our company... my father’s company for almost 20
years.” Bigla akong nakaramdam ng lungkot sa sinabi ni Jed.
Anita Chan was my grandmother’s name. So, they didn’t come at all. I thought I
could finally meet her and talk to her but I was wrong.
Hindi ko na nasundan pa yung speech ni Jed. Lumabas ako ng hall para magpahangin,
it lead me to the fountain. May empty bench doon kaya naupo ako. Pumangalumbaba ako
sa sandalan ng inuupuan ko habang tinitingnan ang pag splash ng tubig sa fountain.
I sighed.
My heart really feels empty. Para akong namatay sa nalaman ko. but for a second
thought, I smiled bitterly.
Even my true family can’t love me.
“Who says that?” Napalingon ako sa nagsalita. A guy wearing mask—a mask like from
the phantom of the opera. He really does look like.
He walks towards me. Umupo siya sa tabi ko kaya napaayos ako ng upo.
I know this guy. I know his voice.
I smiled. “Ganoon ba kalakas yung boses ko?” I said shyly. I was just sighing and
talking to myself kanina but I didn’t know na ganoon pala kalakas ang boses ko.
He laughs at me. “You look gorgeous tonight.” Then his laughs turned into a melting
smile.
It feels like my cheeks were burning. I can’t reply into what he said.
Then he laughs again. “Don’t overwhelm yourself much Lei! Ang cute mo kapag nao-
overwhelm ka.” He said.
I pout. “I hate you Pat!” I uttered.
Tumigil na siya sa pagtawa. Nakaramdam yata siya na wala ako sa mood

makipagtawanan.
Few seconds of silence came. I think he was giving the floor on me. wanting me to
talk and talk about what’s hidden inside me.
“Kanina ko pa kayo hinahanap nila Charlotte. Have you seen them?” I ask.
He lean on the bench. “Yeah. Nakita ko sila kanina, binabantayan ni Charlotte si

Chester. Alam mo na, baka biglang maging Chescka.” We both laugh. “You know, kanina
pa kita Sinusundan from the moment you entered that hall.”
Hinapas ko siya ng bahagya sa balikat. “Nakakainis ka! Kanina ko pa kayo hinahanap

nila Charlotte tapos para akong shunga kakaikot ayun pala kanina mo pa ko nakita!”
he laughs again.
Simula nang magkakilala kami ni Patrick, he always laughs. Whatever I do he laughs.

As if he was cheering me and saying nothing wrong about me.
“Anong ‘shunga’?”
“Ha?”
“Anong ibig sabihin ng ‘shunga’?” I giggle.
“Word ni Chester yun meaning ‘tanga’” we both laugh again. Madami akong natutunang
salita kay Chester. Gay Language for short.
Silence came again between the two of us.

“Pero seriously Leila Chan-Sy. Bakit ka malungkot nanaman? And why did you go
outside habang nagsasalita doon si Jed?” now he was the one who brings up the
topic.
Wala akong balak sanang sabihin kay Patrick dahil nahihiya na ako sa kanya. All of
my sufferings, he knows all of it. He really is my best friend. A one good friend.
Nahihiya ako dahil alam kong may iba pa siyang nararamdaman sa akin. Hindi ako
naga-assume dahil he said it to me—that he likes me. It’s just that I can’t
reciprocate to that kind of feelings he had for me. I can’t give it to him.
I take a deep breath before I talk. “My family...” I look at him. “The family that
I’m longing to, they didn’t come tonight.”
He patted my back. “That’s ok, may pamilya namang nagmamahal sayo dito ngayon.” I
smile at him and turn away my looks. “Nandyan naman si Tita at si Fei, they are
your family. Si Charlotte at Chester, they are your good friends... Nandito rin
ako...” he pause.
I look at him. “I-I am your best friend!” he said proudly.
I smile. “You never failed to cheer me up Pat. Thanks for everything.”
“Ikaw talaga, tara na sa loob. Maybe the grand ball will about to start.” He said
then drags me inside the hall.
Pagpasok namin ni Patrick sa loob ng hall ay naghahanapan na sila ng partner. Will

Jed look for me?
“Cool.” Patrick uttered.
“By the way Pat, nice hotel.” I praise their hotel.
It was their hotel. It was a property of Patrick’s family. He will soon take over
this hotel or maybe their real estates or their resort somewhere in the province.
“Thanks.” He simply said.
Agad kong namukhaan si Jed. I saw him. He was walking around looking for something.
At a second thought he was looking for me. But then, my fluttering heart fails from
excitement when he offers his hand to someone and that’s not me.
Nagulat pa ako nang mapansin kong yung babaeng inaya niya... ay si Amanda. Bakit?
Bakit hindi ako? I thought I would be the one whom he will take to the floor.
Then I realized, Amanda’s wearing the same mask—the same mask of Jed. The have
matched masks. I can’t believe this! Am I being fooled by her all the time? Was
this all planned by Amanda?
Naramdaman kong hinawakan ni Patrick ang kamay ko. “Shall we?” he said smiling at
me.
I don’t know... I’m kind of loss. Yung mga paa ko, it follows Patrick towards the
dance floor and we danced there.
“It’s ok Lei. You’ll be fine.” He said. As if he’s reassuring that I am safe in his
arms. And that is what I am feeling right now.
We we’re getting closer to Jed and Amanda. She was smiling while dancing with my
husband. It hurts me to see that kind of smile on her as if she was the real wife
of Jed. It hurts me so badly. It kills me inside seeing them both happy while I am
miserably loving him. I am miserable loving Jed all alone.
“No Pat, please don’t.” I said when we’re four steps apart the two.
“Why so? You’re in the right track Lei. Your are part of him and she can’t take
that to you unless you want to...” he said. Bigla akong natauhan. Patrick was
right. I have the rights to be by his side. I have the right to hold on Jed’s
hands.
Napansin yata ni Amanda na katabi na lang namin sila habang nagsasayaw. Because she
remove that sweet smile and turns it into a bitter smile. She was looking directly
at me. as if she was warning me not to do anything. Not to move or talk to him. She
really is threatening me.
“Hey Jed.” Pasimpleng tawag ni Pat kay Jed. He look at us.
The four of us stop in the middle of the dance.
“I think you should be the one dancing with Leila.” Ani Pat. He holds my hand and
pulls it closer to Jed. Then he grabs Amanda away from Jed.
Hindi naman kami nakagawa ng eksena sa kalagitnaan ng sayaw. We move smoothly and
talk with low voice just enough to hear each other.
Nang hawak na ni Pat ang braso ni Amanda, he finally puts down my hands and hand me
over to Jed. Nakaramdam ako ng lungkot nang bitawan ni Patrick yung mga kamay ko.
it feels like I’m not safe anymore.
Before Patrick and Amanda leave, Pat smiles at me. Telling me ‘Good luck’ and ‘You
can do it’. I smile at him. My eyes followed Patrick until they were covered by
many people dancing.
Suddenly, Jed clears his throat. I look at him. He was offering his hand to me.
Am I dreaming? I wish it would last. Just like the theme park...
“So, can I have this dance?” I held his hands and we dance.
The first steps were feeling awkward. No one dares to talk. I have no words to say
to him. Wala akong lakas nang loob para tanungin siya... para awayin siya. Kasi,
kasal lang kami sa papel. At hindi ako ang mahal niya.
“I’m sorry...” he suddenly utters.
Napatingala ako kay Jed. Now I realize how tall he was. Hanggang tainga lang niya
ako. The fact that I am wearing heels tonight. I can smell his scent. It was just
right. Hindi matapang ang perfume niya. Tama lang. Hindi nakakahilo.
I was just looking at him. Waiting for him to continue. “I’m sorry, your family was
not here.”
I try to put all my strength to smile. “Ah, yun ba?” I smirk. “Sanay na akong
iniiwan ng mga taong mahal ko.” I smiled looking on the other direction. I can’t
look at him.
“I’m sorry...” he pulls me closer to him. “I’m sorry, I always making you feel sad.
I always make you feel the pain.” He added.
I realize. He was already hugging me. Gusto kong maluha pero hindi ko magawa.
Nasasaktan ako sa mga nangyayari ngayon. Naiinis ako kay Jed. Lalo lang niya akong
nilulubog sa pagmamahal ko sa kanya. Hindi ko na alam kung pano pa ako makakaahon.
Ang sakit sakit. Bakit Jed? Bakit mo ba ginagawa sa akin ‘to?
We both get back to our senses nang mamatay ang ilaw at tumapat sa amin ang spot
light. It feels like I was lost. Wala akong naririnig but I can see they were
looking at us clapping and seem very happy.
*****
Few days had passed by since that party. Bumalik na kami sa bahay ni Jed—in our own
house. It makes me happy kahit na nalayo ako ulit kay mama at Fei kasi nasatabi ko
naman si Jed. We’re together in this house. I missed serving him... taking care of
everything.
That past few days, gabi paring umuwi si Jed but he is not drunk anymore. Pagod
naman siya sa trabaho. Sa problema sa kumpanya. All I can do for him is to cook for
him.
It’s 11 o’clock. Tinatapos ko yung home works ko. I already prepared his dinner sa
baba all he need to do is to heat it in the microwave. I felt sleepy as I was doing
my home work until my eyes fell down into tiredness.
Nagising ako sa engine ng sasakyan. I know it was him. Agad kong minulat ang mga
mata ko. Sinilip ko siya sa bintana but my heart breaks down when I saw Jed with
Amanda outside the gate. They were laughing.
I saw her look at the window where I was. I saw Amanda, looking at me as if she
wins again.
Jed said his good night to Amanda. But when he was about to open the gate, Amanda
pulls him to face her and give Jed that passionate kiss. It made my hand hold on to
my mouth.
Automatic na tumulo yung luha ko. hanggang ngayon nasasaktan parin ako... wala
akong magawa. I feel like I’m hopeless. I feel like I don’t have any voice neither
power to say to them that I am hurting.
Isinara ko na yung bintana. I covered it with my curtain and jump into my bed.
I hide my face into my pillow. Then I start crying.
Umiyak ako ng umiyak. It doesn’t matter if they could hear me or not. I just wanted
to cry and burst out all my emotions right now.
Iyak ako ng iyak hanggang sa makatulugan ko na ito.
MORNING COMES. I feel like dizzy and tired. Late na rin ako nagising. Ang bigat ng
pakiramdam ko. ang mata ko, hindi ko na maimulat. Then I realize, umiyak nga pala
ako ng umiyak kagabi.
I sighed. Ang bigat talaga ng pakiramdam ko. Para akong babagsak anytime.
Dumiretsyo ako sa CR. Buti na lang may CR ako sa loob ng kuwarto. I can’t afford to
face Jed with this kind of face if he’s still inside this house. When I face the
mirror I feel sorry for myself. Sobrang namamaga ng mga mata ko.
I try to fix myself. And when I feel like I feel better Bumaba na ako para mag
handa ng breakfast.
But to my surprise, I saw a trespass inside the house.
“You’re finally awake.”

--------------------------------
=================
Chapter 11
Chapter 11:
“You’re finally awake.”
Hindi alam ni Leila ang gagawin. She was oblivious on what’s happening. Naiyukom
niya ang kamay niya to put herself together. To calm herself.
“A-anong ginagawa mo dito?” ani Leila.
Amanda smiles at her. Tumayo ito mula sa pagkakaupo sa bangkuan.
“I was waiting for you to wake up. You see...” she looks at the dining table.
Napatingin din si Leila. It seems like they have already eaten breakfast. “Nauna
nang umalis si Jed. I’m waiting for you... you know.”
Huminga ng malalim si Leila. She’s shaking. “Ah... ganun ba...” she was feeling not
well. Kinuha niya yung pamunas sa lababo “Sige, ako na ang magliligpit niyan.” She
immediately went to the table and clean up the mess.
But Amanda held her hand. “Iwan mo na si Jed. File a divorce.” She really is
determined. Amanda’s voice was like a steel. Every bit of her words were rough.
Leila take a gasp. She really feels like everything was about to fall. “I-I
can’t...” she really can’t.
Even though Leila’s in pain with Jed, she can’t leave her husband. She loves Jed so
much even if it takes hell to be with him.
Amanda can’t control herself anymore. “Both of us know, ako ang mahal ni Jed at
hindi ikaw...” Leila didn’t mind her. She just continue cleaning the table. “Just
end this is up Leila. Pinapahirapan mo lang ang sarili mo!”
Naglakad papuntang sink si Leila and put the plates on the basin. She stop for a
second and take a deep breath. She looks at Amanda who’s pissed enough to say all
those words.
“Oo, ikaw ang mahal ng asawa ko ngayon... pero hindi noon mababago ang pagmamahal
ko sa kanya. Kahit gaano pa kasakit... kahit gaano pa kahirap kakayanin ko. Ganoon
ko siya kamahal.” Leila, unconsciously smiles as she thinks of Jed. “Yeah, I may be
working hard just to get his attention but that hard work makes my love for Jed got
deeper and deeper. Kahit na sabihin nating sa papel lang maituturing na magasawa
kami. Wala paring magbabago... hindi parin noon mababago ang pagmamahal ko.” she
smiles at Amanda. “Sabihin na nating mahal mo nga si Jed, pero hindi ibig sabihin
na susuko na ako. I am tougher than what you think of me Amanda. Divorce?” Leila
giggle. “That’s the thing I’ll give to him if he ask me too but as long as he
doesn’t want to, I know I still have the chance to fight for this marriage. Eto na
lang yung pinanghahawakan ko... kaya sana wag mo na munang agawin hangga’t alam ko
at Naniniwala akong may pag-asa pa.”
Tumalikod nang muli si Leila kay Amanda. She started to wash the dishes. “Puwede ka
nang umalis. Pamamahay namin ito ni Jed at nasisiguro kong wala kang puwang dito.”
Hindi na makapag salita pa si Amanda. She just left the house without even talking.
Sumakay ng cab si Amanda pauwi sa kanila. She didn’t bring her car cause she spend
the night at Sy’s residence. She had drunk with Jed that night.
Nang makarating siya ng bahay ay agad siyang dumiretsyo sa kuwarto. She locked the
door and sit on her working table. She feels like her head was really aching. She
really got pissed.
She screams as she throw all the things she touches on her desk. What had been
Leila said a while ago drives her nuts crazy. She really got mad about it. Buti na
lang at na-control niya ang emosyon niya kanina kung hindi ay baka nasaktan na niya
si Leila.
She emit a scream once more.
“That bitch! Bakit ba ang hirap niyang pakiusapan!” then she threw up the vase on
the table. “I really hate her! I’ll do everything hiwalayan mo lang si Jed! I’ll do
everything!” then she screams again. She was like a child who got mad because she
doesn’t get what she wants. “Sisiguraduhin kong ikaw mismo ang lalayo kay Jed! I’ll
make sure you’ll stay out of my way Leila!”
*****
“Sir, heto na po yung pinapakuha niyong FS last year.” Anang secretary ni Jed.
“Sige ilagay mo na lang jan, Ginny.” Inilapag nito yung folder na may laman ng
Financial Statement sa table nito at umalis na.
Jed was checking some papers. He’s been really busy the day the company handed over
to him. Kung dati ay wala siyang ginawa kundi ang magsaya at magliwaliw, ngayon ay
halos ibinuhos na niya ang oras niya para sa company na iniwan sa kanya ng kanyang
ama.
While doing things at his office, his personal phone had ring.
It was Amanda.
[Hi babe!] Amanda said on the other line.
“Hey...” he said as he continue on typing.
[I had a very good time last night you know...] Jed just keep on doing his work.
“Yeah me too...” now he was finally got a bit tired. Tumigil muna siya at sumandal
sa kanyang rolling chair. “Naabutan ka ba ni Leila kanina sa bahay?”
Amanda giggled on the other line. [No babe, nung umalis ka I finish off cleaning
and I get out.]
Jed deeply sighed. “Okay, that’s a relief...”
[What do you mean Jed?]

“You see, Leila knows about us... and I don’t want her to get hurt.” He run his
fingers through his hair. “I-I just don’t want that to happen... you... her...
putting up a fight...” he pause for a second. “What happened last night... it was
just... it was all wrong.”
[What are you talking about Jed?] Amanda’s voice seem very pissed about what Jed
said. [Do you mean everything about us is wrong?!] her tone gets higher. Halata sa
boses ni Amanda na naiinis na siya.
“Yes! Everything is wrong!” Jed can’t help it too. He was busy managing lots of
things... work, family and himself. He seemed got tired from everything.
[So, you wanna end this up? You don’t love me anymore? Bakit? Mahal mo na yang
asawa mo?---]
“Shut the fuck up Amanda!” Jed really got irritated about Amanda’s blabbers. “You
know that I love you but I can’t handle things at the same time!”
[Then hiwalayan mo yang asawa mo. Let’s live together!]
“You know I can’t! It was like... okay, parang sinira ko na rin yung pangako ko kay
Dad.”
[But your dad isn’t here anymore! You’ve said before that you wanna end this thing
right? You wanna be different and get out of your family’s name! Sabi mo noon--]
“Shut up! Shut up!”
There was a seconds of silence. No one dares to talk or end up the conversation.
Until Amanda had clear her throat and deeply breath.
[Okay, I’m sorry... I really got pissed off about everything but I can’t afford to
lose you Jed... I love you so much and I’ll do everything for you to be mine. Let’s
just give ourselves a break for a while.]
“W-what do you mean?”
[I’ll be going to Paris. May kailangan akong asikasuhin doon for a couple of
months...] she sighed again. Together with that sigh was a teary voice. Amanda’s
about to cry. [Jed, I-I can’t take this any longer... you have to choose between me
and her... Hindi puwedeng kaming dalawa... isa lang dapat ang may karapatang mag
may-ari sayo... but unfortunaitely right now... I don’t have that rights from
you... I am leaving you this chance para makapag isip... At sa pagbalik ko, I hope
you have all the right answers...]
Jed deeply sighs as he close his eyes. “So, kelan ang alis mo?”
[Tomorrow morning.]
*****
Hindi parin tumitigil si Leila sa pag iyak. She’s hopeless. She was locked up on
her room and crying at the corner. What had Amanda said a while ago hit her so
much. Every words cuts her off. Hindi na rin niya nagawa pang makapasok sa school.
Her phone keeps on ringing but she ignores it.
“Both of us know, ako ang mahal ni Jed at hindi ikaw...”
“Just end this is up Leila. Pinapahirapan mo lang ang sarili mo!”
She just remembers what Amanda had said kanina. It keeps on replaying on her mind
it makes the reason she keeps on crying and did nothing at all.
Masakit na nga ang ulo niya kakaiyak, pati ba naman ang puso niya wasak na wasak
na. Poor Leila, she really is a hopeless one.
Her phone keeps on ringing. She didn’t even look at it. as if she didn’t hear that
loud volume coming from her phone.
It was Patrick who’s on the line.

Sa kabilang linya naman ay nagaalala na ang mga kaibigan ni Leila.
“Ano? Hindi parin ba sumasagot?” bakas ang pagaalala ni Charlotte sa tono ng

kanyang boses. She was waiting for an answer from Patrick who was currently calling
Leila. Pero pag iling lang ang naisagot ni Patrick.
“Naku! Baka may nangyari nang masama kay Chaaaannn! Ehmerghed! Kalerky!” ani
Chester.
“Manahimik ka nga Ches! Wag naman sana oh! Bakit ba kasi di niya sinasagot yung
tawag natin!?” Charlotte already got sulks.
Itinigil na ni Patrick ang pagtawag kay Leila. “She won’t pick up the phone.” He
said while looking at the cousins.
“Ano ba yan... pinagaalala naman tayo ni Leila oh! Hindi naman kasi niya ugali ang
mag-absent or ma-miss ang classes niya!” Charlotte said.
“Maybe she’s sick? I’ll ask Jed.” Then Patrick dialled Jed’s number.
It rings for a long time but Jed picked up the phone.
[Patrick bakit?] Jed feeds up.
“Kasama mo ba si Lei?”
[Ha? Hindi, bakit? Anong nangyari?] nagaalalang boses ni Jed.
“Wala siya ngayon dito sa school. We tried calling her but she won’t pick up the
phone.” But Jed already end up the call.
“Ano daw?” Chester utters.
“Hindi rin niya alam kung anong nangyari kay Lei. Binaba niya agad yung phone eh.”
Patrick said as he put his phone on his pocket. “Pupuntahan ko siya sa bahay nila.”
He said at akmang lalakad na palayo but Charlotte garb his arm.
“Call us kapag may balita kana kay Chan. Nagaalala na kami ng sobra sa kanya.”
Patrick just nod.
Charlotte smiles. “Thanks.”
At tuluyan nang umalis si Patrick.
*****
Agad na pinuntahan ni Jed si Leila sa bahay nila to check if she’s at their house.
Nang makarating siya sa bahay ay nakasara ang gate at main door ng bahay. Tumakbo
na siya Papasok sa loob. He didn’t found Leila on the living room nor the kitchen
so he immediately went to her room. Jed quickly run at Leila who was lying on the
corner floor.
“Leila?! Wake up!” he held Leila on his arms. He touches her forehead, nilalagnat
si Leila. “Leila nilalagnat ka...” he said worriedly.
Leila suddenly got conscious. “Jed?” she said softly.
“Shhh... don’t talk, I’ll bring you to the hospital.”
“Nahihilo ako...” she stated.
“Kaya mo bang maglakad?” he asks pero umiling-iling lang ito sa kanya.
He lifted Leila. As if they were newlyweds. Dinala niya ito sa baba at isinakay sa
kotse. Binalutan niya ito ng kumot at nag drive na papuntang ospital.
HABANG si Patrick naman ay malapit na sa bahay nila Leila. Jed dialled his number
and call him.
Patrick instantly answer the call.
[Kasama ko na ngayon si Leila.]
“What happened to her? Is she okay?” pagaalalang sabi ni Patrick.
[She’s not okay. Nilalagnat siya, I’ll bring her to the hospital... we’re on our
way.]
“Ok sige, txt mo ko kung saang ospital kayo pupunta.” Then he hangs up the phone.
Agad na nag U-turn si Patrick. He immediately txt Charlotte about what happened to
Leila. Pabalik na siya ng school ngayon.
Habang si Leila at Jed naman ay nakarating na ng ospital. Nasa isang ward ngayon si
Leila, she was checked by the doctor. Unconscious kasi siyang dumating sa hospital.
Habang naghihintay ng result, Jed went outside. Umupo siya sa isa sa mga upuan doon
sa waiting side ng mga pasyente.
Although hindi naman ganoon ka-critical ng sitwasyon ni Leila, Jed was really
scared and worried for Leila. He blames himself for what’s happening right now.
Bigla na lang pumasok sa isipan niya yung mga napag usapan nila ni Amanda kanina sa
phone. About her, him, and Leila. About choosing between these two lady. Why is so
hard for her to let go one of them? Besides, Amanda has a point about it. hindi nga
naman habang buhay ay ganoon ang set up nilang tatlo. He has to choose at talagang
mayroong magiging masaya, mayroon rin namang masasaktan. It’s a choice he had been
unclarified too himself.
*****
Kanina, bago pa tumawag si Patrick sa kanya ay nagpunta siya sa bar kung saan
Nandoon si Spencer. Jed went there after he had talked to Amanda on the phone.
Hindi na siya makapag concentrate sa trabaho niya kaya nagpunta muna siya sa bar
para mailayo ang isip sa mga problema niya.
He sits beside the bar tender. Wala pang tao sa loob ng bar dahil umaga pa. Kaya
naman siya nakapasok sa loob dahil pamilya ni Spenser ang mayari ng bar.
“Jed!” Spencer called out. He waves at Jed and walks toward him. “Anong problema
bro?” ani Spencer nang makaupo na ito sa tabi ni Jed. He even taps Jed’s shoulder.
Uminom muna si Jed ng beer mula sa bote niya bago magsalita. “Amanda’s leaving
tomorrow, she’s asking me to choose between her and my wife.” He stated.
Spencer smirks on what Jed’s said. Nakita na niya ang asawa ni Jed noong party. He
didn’t expect that it was Jed’s wife at all.
Before that grand ball that night Spencer caught his eyes to that dashing lady
walking and looking for someone. He had been mesmerised by that lady. Nilapitan
niya ito that night but he was been rejected. Noon, nagtataka siya kay Jed kung
bakit hindi nito ipinakilala man lang yung asawa niya sa kanila. But now he already
knows... Jed had a beautiful wife. She can’t deny that he’s been attracted by
Leila. Now, he still had questions in his mind. Bakit nga ba nagawa pang tumingin
ni Jed sa iba kung mayroon naman siyang magandang asawa? Why do he have to look
away? Why Jed is it so hard for Jed to choose between the two?
Inakbayan ni Spencer si Jed. “Eh bakit nga ba di ka makapili sa kanila?” pabirong

sabi ni Spencer. Sumenyas siya doon sa bar tender para humingi ng inumin. “You see,
hindi naman mahirap mamili sa dalawa eh...” Inilapag nang bar tender yung inumin ni
Spencer sa harap niya. Kinuha niya ito at ininom. “Sino ba kasi ang masmatimbang sa
kanilang dalawa? Sino ba mas mahal mo sa kanilang dalawa, ha Jed?”
Hindi agad nakasagot si Jed. He knows and he’s aware that he loves Amanda, but he
is also aware that he has this indifferent feeling for Leila... sa tagal nilang
magkasama sa iisang bubong he somehow has this feelings for her. But lately, he has
this kind of feeling. That extraordinary feeling for his wife. He gets jealous
about Leila’s relationship with Patrick. He somehow developing that kind of love
for Leila.
Before, he only thinks Leila as his little sister whom he needs to take care of. He
somehow before thinks that Leila is a burden to her. Noong mga panahon na ‘yon ay
yung mga time na he needs to be with his wife at that young age. It seems like
kailangan kasama niya ito kahit saan man siya magpunta. But now, he realizes
something... Leila was not a burden to him. He was theone who’s burden to Leila.
“I don’t know Spencer. I know, I love Amanda... but I have this feeling...” uminom
muli si Jed mula sa bote ng beer. “This weird feeling about Leila. I feel jealous
whenever she was with other guy. I don’t know my feelings, maybe naninibago lang
ako... buong buhay kasi niya ako lang ang kasama niya, pero now that she went to
college... things got change.” He was referring to his best friend—Patrick.
Natawa si Spencer. “Ang gulo naman nang puso mong yan pare!” then he sip again.
“You should fix this problem as soon as possible Jed. Hindi naman maiiwasan na may
masasaktan sa dalawa at mayroong magiging masaya.” Then he taps gently his friend’s
shoulder.
Jed suddenly notice, his phone was keeps on ringing. He checked it, it was Patrick
who was calling.
It was about Leila.
According to Patrick, hindi raw pumasok si Leila sa school and Patrick asking if he
was with her. But he wasn’t. Also, according to Amanda hindi raw sila nagkaabutan
ni Leila. It makes Jed worried about his wife. Baka mayroong masamang nangyari
dito.
Nang ibinaba na ni Jed ang phone call ni Patrick, agad itong nagpaalam kay Spencer
at umalis na para puntahan ang asawa sa bahay.
*****
Jed’s still waiting for the doctor. He’s still blaming himself for what happen.
If he would have check Leila before he leaves, this wouldn’t happen. Kung naging
mabuting asawa lang siya dito noon pa, hindi sana ito nangyari ngayon.
Lumabas na yung doktor, Jed instantly stands up. “Kamusta na po yung asawa ko?” he
asks.
“Mataas ang lagnat niya. Just give her a one week rest. She’s over fatigue. Puwede
mo na siyang iuwi pag gising na siya...” Sabi nang doktor at umalis na.
Eksaktong paalis na ang doktor nang makarating si Patrick kasama si Charlotte at

Chester.
“Ayyyy! Fafa Jeeeeedddd!” hiyaw ni Chester. Akmang yayakapin nito si Jed but
Charlotte pulls back her cousin.
“Anong nangyari kay Leila?” Charlotte asks worriedly.
“Mataas ang lagnat niya. Sabi nang doktor over fatigue daw.” Jed repeats what the
doctor had said.
Napa-face palm si Chester. “Haaayyyy naaakkuuuu! Sabey na kumain ng tama at wag

masyadong magpagod ee!” sabi nito.
It hit Jed. He didn’t even check Leila if she’s asleep or kung anong ginagawa nito
o pinagkakaabalahan. He really is no good for her. Lalo lang niyang Sinisisi ang
sarili sa nangyari kay Leila.
*****
Higit isang oras ring walang malay si Leila. When she finally wakes up. As her eyes
finally opens her eyes, she seems unfamiliar with the room. Agad naman siyang
Nilapitan nila Charlotte.
“Chan!? Okay ka na ba? Di ka naba Nilalagnat?” Charlotte worriedly asks.
Napa ngiti si Leila. She feels that warmth from her friends. She just nod.
“Anong ginagawa ko dito?” Leila said as she looks around the room.
“Ehmerghed Chaaaaannnn! You won’t believe iiitttt!” pambungad ni Chester.

Napakunot noo naman si Leila. “Si fafa Jed ang dala sayo ditey!”
Gustuhin man ni Leila na ngumiti sa sinabi ni Chester, hindi na niya magawa.

Nakaramdam lang siya ng lungkot. It makes her remember what happened this morning
again.
Leila and her friends were still chatting when Jed and Patrick came.
Jed directly looking at Leila, napansin naman ito ni Leila kaya kaya inilayo niya
ang tingin niya dito.
May dalang pagkain ang mag best friend, enough for the five of them. A few more
talks at umalis na rin ang magpinsan kasama si Patrick. Kailangan na kasi nilang
bumalik sa school.
Naiwan si Jed at Leila sa loob ng kuwarto. Jed even get her in admission in a big
room even though pagkagising naman niya ay puwede na itong umuwi ng bahay.
Few moments of silence came between the two. Until Jed clears his throat.
“Leila, are you okay? Kaya mo na ba?” he said worriedly.
Leila smiles at him and nod. “Thanks Jed, you don’t have to do this.”
“No, it’s my responsibility... as your husband. I-I should have checked you before
I go and every time I came home.” He put his one hand on Leila’s head and the other
one hold on Leila’s hand. He kiss her forehead and then her hand which he holds.
“I’m sorry Leila... ang dami-dami kong kasalan sa’yo. I’ve never been good husband
to you...” he almost cry.
But Leila held his hand. “Jed? Why or you being like this?” napatingin si Jed sa
mga mata ni Leila. he sees that sadness in her eyes. “Saying sorry and acting so
caring. Lalo mo akong nilulubog sa pagmamahal ko sayo... ni hindi ko na alam kung
paano pa ko makakaahon.” She keeps on smiling even though there’s a sadness inside
her. She gently comb Jed’s hair. Hinaplos-haplos niya ang mukha ng asawa. “When you
say sorry my heart felts like melting. And instantly, I already forgive you...
kahit na dapat nagagalit ako, dapat isinusumpa na kita ngayon, dapat hinihiwalayan
na kita ngayon...” she finally breaks down. Tumulo na ang luha mula sa mga mata ni
Leila. “But my heart can’t let go of you...” pinunasan niya ang luha mula sa
kanyang mga mata. “Then I realize today...”
She breaths deeply before she continue.
“Maybe we should end this suffering now Jed...” Jed looks at her puzzled.
“This is not only for me, but also for you... I want you to be happy.” She pause
again. Muling tumulo ang mga luha sa mga mata niya. “And if this makes both of us
happy... I can give it to you... I am now ready to give it to you...” she keeps on
crying.
“Let’s divorce, Jed.”
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some bridges are just not worth keeping.
You need to burn them down and build new ones to move on.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---
Anne's Letter: Helllooooo guyyyssss! ;)it's been a very long time! Haha, I am

keeping my promise but as for now I have currently been in a kind of situation and
makes me take some of my time though. =___=
Here's the update! Still, thankful parin po ako sa lahat ng mga nag-add sa RL nila
ng story na 'to. sa mga nag VOTE. Sa mga COMMENTS! :D I am very happy!
I'll be updating soon again. So I hope you like the update to today. =))
God bless~!
~ChecheAnne :">
P.S
I'll be very happy if someone might want a dedication from this story. I have
vacant chapters right now and I don't know whom will I'll dedic! >____< So, gusto
mo ba ng dedication sa story na 'to? Comment or send me a message about the story
or suggestions! Don't forget to comment "ME! *with a smiley*" I'll be happy to read
those! :**
=================
Chapter 12
Chapter 12:
“Leila? Anak, will you think about it?” Jed’s mom pleaded Leila.
They were in Leila’s room. Isang araw na ang nakalipas matapos alukin ni Leila ng
divorce ang kanyang asawa. She smiles bitterly at her mother-in-law. She knows what
she feels and she’s aware about it, sa puso niya ayaw niyang hiwalayan si Jed. But
her mind tells her she has to stop before it’s too late... before she ends up being
miserable for the rest of her life. She thinks that it’s the best for the both of
them—for all of them. Dahil marahil ay nararamdaman niyang nahihirapan na rin si
Jed. She wants her husband to be happy. She also wants to be happy, and seeing Jed
happy makes her happy. At kung ang dahilan ng pagiging masaya ni Jed ay dahil sa
paghihiwalay nilang dalawa’y gagawin niya, sumaya lang ang taong mahal niya.
Nangingilid na ang mga luha ng mama ni Jed. “Please Leila? Why don’t you give him a
second chance?” at tuluyan na ngang tumulo ang mga luha sa mata nito. “I don’t know
anyone else who can fit my son. You are the only girl for her...”
She smiles again. “Pero mama...” then she cries. “Sa mga mata ni Jed, hindi po ako
yung babaeng ‘yon.” Pinunasan ni Leila agad ang tumulong luha sa kanyang mga mata.
“Are you already giving up on my son? Please don’t...” her mom keeps on pleading.
“Give him a second chance. Please Leila...”
Hindi na alam ni Leila ang gagawin. Niyakap siya ng mama ni Jed na kasalukuyang
nakaupo ngayon sa kanyang kama kung saan siya nakahiga.
Hindi parin mabuti ang pakiramdam nito. Leila talked about divorce with Jed at the
hospital but Jed didn’t mind it. He just said “Saka na natin pag-usapan ‘yon kapag
magaling ka na... Sabi ng doktor kailangan mo daw mag pahinga for at least one
week.”
Now, she was just lying on bed the whole day. Hindi siya hinahayaan ni Jed na
gumalaw or gumawa ng kahit na ano. She was really treated well as if she was a
princess.
Nagpaalam na ang mama ni Jed at umalis na.
Hindi na alam ni Leila kung tama ba ang desisyon niyang hingin ‘yon kay Jed. She’s
having second thoughts. Hindi niya alam kung alin ang pipiliin... what her minds
says that is right? Or her heart who speaks louder than her mind? She really is
confused. Besides, wala na siyang ibang pamilyang pupuntahan bukod sa mga Sy. It
was her only family whom she knows.
May bigla namang kumatok sa pintuan. It caught her attention.
Pagtingin niya sa pintuan, iniluwal nito si Jed na may dalang miryenda sa tray.
“Want some?” he asks.
Naglakad si Jed papalapit kay Leila. Umupo ito sa gilid ng kama ni Leila at
Inilapag ang tray ng pagkain sa harapan nito. Jed smiles as he gives to her wife a
peel of apple. Leila accepts it.
“Sabi nila mabuti daw sa may sakit ang fruits...” he said while Leila’s eating the
apple. “So I bought you some nung mag grocery ako kanina...” his smile never fades
as he talks to her.
Naramdaman na lang ni Leila ang pagtibok ng puso niya ng sobrang bilis. She keeps
on avoiding it but with just one glance at Jed, it makes her heart burst and only
beats for him.
“Y-you went out for groceries today?” ani Leila.
Nasanay kasi siya na siya ang namimili ng pagkain nila kapag sa bahay nila sila
nakatira. Lahat ng gawaing bahay, siya ang gumagawa. Magluto, maglaba, mamalantsa,
mamalengke... all around si Leila. She was like Jed’s personal maid way back then.
Kaya laking gulat ngayon ni Leila na si Jed ang namili ng mga kailangan nila.
Jed just nod while smiling. “Kanina habang sinasamahan ka ni mama dito.” Jed lean
on the edge of Leila’s bed. Kalahati ng katawan nito ay nakahiga sa kama ni Leila.
it makes her heart beats fast again.
Jed reach for something on Leila’s side table—TV’s remote control. He turned on the
TV na nakatapat sa kama ni Leila. Automatically, umusog si Leila nang bahagya para
bigyan pa ng space si Jed sa kama para may maupuan ito. When Jed turns on the TV,
agad namang nag pop ang isang movie.
“You’re watching movie?” ani Jed.
Kinakabahan si Lela, they were seating next to each other—so close with each other.
She just nod. “A while ago nung wala pa si mama.”
“Is that A Walk To Remember?” ani Jed habang itinuturo ang TV.
Hindi makatingin si Leila sa asawa na ngayon ay sobrang dikit sa kanya. She keeps
on telling herself ‘Stop this already Leila, you have to set him free... you need
to avoid him until you get well...’she keeps on repeating to herself.
The movie was just starting, nasa part pa lang sila kung saan pumunta si Landon sa
bahay ni Jamie para makiusap na magpatulong para sa play.
Silence came as they watch the movie. Leila keeps her eye focus on the television
but she kinda feels tired and sleepy. Nangangawit na rin ang batok niya, she wants
to lean on but she can’t. Iniwasan niyang mapansin siya ni Jed na inaantok. She
doesn’t want to him to be disturb from watching.
But on the other hand, Jed notices his wife. Parang inaantok na ito na nangangawit
sa pagkakaupo. Tuwid kasi ang upo ni Leila, as if she was in the military while
Jed? He was seating so relax. Nakasandal pa siya sa border ng kama habang
nanunuod.
Hindi mapakali si Jed sa pagkakaupo ni Leila. Nahihirapan siyang tingnan ito na

ganoon ang upo.
He sigh for a bit and calls out her wife’s name. Nang lumingon ito sa kanya ay
hinawakan niya ang kabilang balikat nito, then Jed pulls her to his chest.
Laking gulat naman ni Leila sa ginawa ni Jed. Lalong bumilis ang pagtibok ng
kanyang puso. She felt like she was going to explode in any minute.
“J-jed--”
“Shh.. just stay like that, para hindi ka mangawit.” Ani Jed. She can’t move from
that position. Hindi siya mapakali, it makes her nervous. Ang bilis talaga ng tibok
ng puso niya. She was locked in Jed’s arms.
Para bang automatic ang lahat ng ginagawa ni Leila. As if someone’s controlling her
to move. What she did is... she places her arms around Jed’s waist.
Jed suddenly feels like his heart was beating so fast when Leila did that. Para
siyang kinabahan. Kung titingnan mo silang dalawa, they were look like good couple.
As if they have that perfect marriage and lives happily together.
The movie was at it the scene where Jamie sings at the play... where Landon kissed
her in front of the audience.
Hinawakan ni Jed ang isang kamay ni Leila, it was interlock between his fingers.
Everything’s fine and cosy until the movie had finished.
“Jed?”
“Hmm?” Jed feels sleepy. They have stayed in that position for an hour.
“Why are you being nice to me?” kalmadong tanong ni Leila. She just wanted to know,
walang halong lungkot o saya... gusto lang niyang malaman. “Why are you giving me
this kind of feeling?”
Jed sighs deeply. He even closes his eyes as he sighs.
“Is it because you have the responsibility?” Leila turns over to face him. “Or it’s
what your heart tells you to do so?”
Both eyes have met each other. You can see seriousness between their looks. Both of
them we’re silently looking at each other.
Leila smile and hug her husband again. She places her head on his chest. “You don’t
have to answer it... alam ko naman na ang sagot sa tanong ko.”
Jed was about to talk when suddenly his phone rings. Kinuha niya ito mula sa
kanyang bulsa.
“Shit!” he exclaimed.
Umayos ng upo si Leila looking at him. “Yung roasted chicken sa oven!” ani Jed.
Dali-dali nilang pinuntahan yung roasted chicken na nasa oven. Amoy sunog ito.
Kinuha ito ni Jed sa oven at Inilapag sa kitchen table. “Damn it! I forgot to check
it!” naiinis na sabi ni Jed.
Leila just looks at her husband. She found herself smiling while looking at Jed.
The Jed who doesn’t even know how to cook or do other house chores. She smiles when
she saw dirt in the kitchen. Para bang may gumamit ng kusina na hindi marunong at
nagkalat lang. Nakatambak kasi sa lababo ang mga pinggang tila dalawang araw nang
hindi nahuhugasan. She also saw cans and tetra packs on the side.
Agad niyang inalis ang ngiti nang mapatingin sa kanya si Jed.
“Pano ba ‘to? Nasunog yung dinner natin? Should we eat outside na lang?” ani Jed.
Leila smiles as she nods at her husband.
Nagpalit si Leila ng panglakad at Sumakay na sa sasakyan ni Jed. Noong una ay

nagaalinlangan pa siyang Sumakay sa passenger seat but she hop in anyway. Doon kasi
siya pinaupo ni Jed.
While on the road she notice Jed’s home phone. Napangiti siya nang makita niya yung
Mr Bunny phone chain na nakalagay parin sa phone ni Jed. She also has it. Ito yung
binili niya noong nagpunta sila sa theme park ni Jed before. Kinuha niya yung phone
niya, she puts it closer to her heart and smile while reminiscing the past event.
Jed notice what Leila did kaya napatingin ito rito nang nagtataka, but he instantly
smile as he sees his wife smiles thinking about something.
“Saan mo gustong kumain?” Jed suddenly utters.
Leila looks at him. “Kahit saan.”
Jed parks the car to the nearest restaurant and there, they eat dinner. While
eating dinner Leila wondered about Amanda. Where could she be? Bakit hindi niya
napapansing tinatawagan or pumunta si Amanda sa bahay?
After they eat in a fine dine restaurant they drove away. They we’re still on the
road. Sabi ni Jed ayaw pa raw niyang umuwi that’s why they were doing road hopping.
Huminto sila sa isang familiar na lugar sa kanilang dalawa. They were in front of
their old school.
“Why are we here?” ani Leila. napatingin siya kay Jed na nakangiting nakatingin sa
kanya.
“Let’s go?” Jed went out of the car. Liela follows him.
They were standing at their old school. Ang school kung saan sila unang nagkakilala
and build up so many memories. Bad and happy ones, it brings all back to Leila.
“Tara?” Ani Jed as he holds her hand.
Nasa likod sila ng school. Madilim na rin dahil pasado alasotso na ng gabi.
Naglakad sila papunta sa bakuran ng school.
Naalala noon ni Leila noong nasa 4th grade siya, inakyat nila ito ni Jed palabas ng
school para takas an ang mga namb-bully kay Leila. It was the first time both of
them ditch their classes. She smiles as she remembered those silly things she did
with Jed.
Napatingin siya kay Jed na nakatingin rin doon sa pader na ‘yon.
“Do you remember this wall?” ani Leila sabay baling ng tingin sa pader. Habang si
Jed naman ay napatingin kay Leila.
Jed did remember it. He remembers all those childhood days he had share with Leila.
Nagtataka tuloy siya sa sarili kung anong nangyari sa kanilang dalawa nang
tumungtong siya ng college at naiwan si Leila sa school na ito.
They were having good relationship with each other back then. Suddenly things
messed up and went all to this. Hurting his wife who loves her so much.
“I wonder...” Jed utters. Napatingin si Leila sa kanya. “Buhay pa kaya yung burol
na pinupuntahan natin noon kapag hinahabol tayo ng mga namb-bully sayo?”
Leila shrugs as she smiles. Naglakad sila papunta sa burol habang magkahawak ng
kamay.
Tuwa ang naramdaman nilang dalawa nang makitang buhay pa ang burol. Umupo sila sa
gilid nag punong nakatayo roon and look at the site.
Ipinikit ni Leila ang kanyang mga mata at dinama ang malamig na simoy ng hangin na
dumadampi sa kanyang mukha. Then she turns her looks at Jed who is actually doing
the same thing. And when both of their eyes meet each other, they smile instantly.
Tumingala si Leila sa kalangitan. She looks at the stars shining at the night sky.
“Jed?” she suddenly utters.
Napatingin si Jed kay Leila nang tawagin siya nito. She glance at Jed and turn her
looks at the sky.
“Ang ganda ng kalangitan ‘no?” Ani Leila.
Jed’s eyes were lock at Leila. He was just looking at her amazingly. He found her
beautiful without doing anything to make her look beautiful. For him, she’s more
beautiful than the sky.
“Mas maganda ka kaysa sa kalangitan...” Jed suddenly utters.

Dahil dito ay namula si Leila. Nahihiya na siya tuloy tingnan si Jed. Ang bilis
nanaman ng tibok ng puso niya. Kinakabahan siya. She take a deep breath and smile.
Hindi parin siya makatingin kay Jed.
“Why are you doing this? Nagaway ba kayo ni Amanda?” hindi parin siya makatingin
kay Jed.
Habang si Jed naman ay huminga nang malalim at humiga sa damuhan.
“Jed, I-I can’t take this any longer... you have to choose between me and her...
Hindi puwedeng kaming dalawa... isa lang dapat ang may karapatang mag may-ari
sayo...”
Naalala ni Jed ang huling paguusap nila ni Amanda. Napatingin si Leila kay Jed na
kasalukuyang nakahiga at nakatingin sa mga bituin. Ginaya niya ang ginawa ni Jed.
Humiga siya sa tabi nito at Pinagmasdan rin ang mga bituin.
“Nasa Paris ngayon si Amanda. She’ll be gone for a couple of months... yun ang sabi
niya.” Napatingin si Leila kay Jed. Still, he was looking at the stars.
“Do you miss her?” Part of wants says that she was hurting about those words she
utters.
Jed smirks. “Wala akong connection na sa kanya since she left.” Ani Jed.
“If I might gone... I mean, if ever we did really plan to file divorce... will you
miss me, Jed?” Leila brought the topic again.
Napatingin si Jed kay Leila. She was looking at him with seriousness in her eyes.
Ganoon rin si Jed.
“Are you really sure about it Leila?” ani Jed.
Ibinalik muli ni Leila ang tingin sa mga bituin at huminga ng malalim. “To tell you
the truth, hindi ako sigurado... I just want you to be happy Jed. Seeing you happy
makes me happy. At kung ang paghihiwalay natin ang magpapasaya sa’yo...” she looks
at Jed again. “I can give it to you... ganoon kita kamahal.” She said with a smile.
Kung noon ay nahihirapan siyang sabihin ang mga nararamdaman niyang sakit kay Jed,
now she’s ready to face it. Even if it kills her inside. She feels strong to face
these things.
A few seconds of silence came. They were just looking at each other until Jed holds
her hand.
“Hindi mo lang alam Leila kung gaano na kita gustong pakawalan... I wanted you to
be happy... and seeing you miserable living with me makes me even feels your pain.
Nag promis ako kay papa bago siya mamatay na hinding-hindi tayo maghihiwalay and
we’ll try to work things out...” he looks at her smiling. “Pero parang hindi naman
nag w-work... you end up miserable loving me... nasasaktan ka ng dahil sa akin...”
Hinigpitan ni Jed ang pagkakahawak sa kamay ng asawa. He looks at her. Diretsyo rin
ang tingin ni Leila sa mga mata ni Jed. “But my heart tells me not to let you go...
something tells me na hindi ko kayang mawala ka...” Binitawan ni Jed ang mga
salitang ‘yon na nagmula sa puso niya.
It makes Leila’s heart beats so fast.
*****
After that talk ay nagdesisyon na silang umuwi ng bahay.
Jed parks his car. They went out of the car.
“Hindi kaba mabinat sa paglabas natin?” pagaalalang tanong ni Jed. They were
standing at the main door.
Ngumiti si Leila sabay iling. “Okay na ko. You’ve taken care of me... thank you.”
Jed smiles and pulls her closer to him. Magkahawak kasi sila ng lamay nang bumaba
sila sa sasakyan. He gently planted a kiss on Leila’s forehead.
After that kiss, he looks at her smiling. “Can we just try?”
“T-try what?” nauutal na sabi ni Leila. Iba kasi ang pumapasok sa isipan niya—green
thing.
Jed smile at her. “Can we try to be a better couple? Maybe... I guess... I believe
we can make this work...” he locks his arms around Leila’s waist. “Maybe we can
save our marriage.”
Hindi maikubli ni Leila ang sayang nararamdaman niya ng sabihin ‘yon ni Jed. Parang
siya na ang pinakamasayang babae sa buong mundo nang sabihin ‘yon ni Jed.
*****
MORNING COMES AGAIN.
Maagang nagising si Leila. She’s feeling better now and that’s because of what
happened last night. Nakangiti siya habang nakaharap sa salamin at inaayos ang
kaniyang buhok. She can’t help but to smile.
“Maybe we can save our marriage.”
Paulit-ulit sa kanyang isipan ang mga binitawang salita ni Jed. It makes her happy.
Agad siyang bumaba at nagtungo sa kusina. She was about to make some breakfast for
her and Jed pero nagulat na lang siya nang madatnan niya ang asawa na nagluluto.
Natawa pa siya nang makita si Jed na nagp-pirito ng itlog at takot na takot ito sa
tilabsik ng mantika. He really doesn’t know how to cook... ani Leila sa kanyang
isipan.
Lumapit siya rito at hininaan ang apoy sa kalan.

Nagulat naman si Jed nang makita niya si Leila. Nakaramdam tuloy siya ng hiya
dahil sa kapalpakan niya.
“Hinaan mo lang ang apoy para hindi masunog yang niluluto mo...” Leila said looking
at the toasted egg on the prying pan. Then she turn her looks at Jed and smile.
“Good morning?” patanong na sabi ni Leila.
Jed smiles. Inilapag niya ang hawak na siyanse at niyakap si Leila. “Good morning!
Gutom ka na ba?” malambing na sabi nito.
Leila’s heart beats so fast. Sobra-sobra na ang kaligayang nararamdaman niya umaga
pa lang. It was a good start the morning. She just nod. Magkayakap parin sila ni
Jed.
Ilang sigundo rin silang nanatili nang ganoon hanggang sa kumalas si Jed mula sa
pagkakayakap at hinalikan si Leila sa noo.
“Umupo ka na muna sa dining area. I’m the one in-charge for today.” Pagmamalaki ni
Jed.
Natawa na lang si Leila at Sinunod ang utos ng asawa. She still notices the mess in
the kitchen. She smiles deep inside thinking about her and him living happily.
Hindi rin nagtagal ay inihanda na ni Jed sa lamesa ang pagkain.
Hindi mapigilan ni Leila ang hindi mapangiti sa ihinanda ni Jed.
“Mukha bang hindi masarap?” nagaalalang tanong ni Jed as he sits beside her.
Umiling-iling si Leila. Natutuwa siyang nakikita na nage-effort si Jed sa

pagluluto. Hindi nga kasi ito marunong sa kahit na anong gawaing bahay. He hates
everything about it.
“It looks crap! Compare to what you cook for me...” malungkot na sabi ni Jed.
Leila holds his hand na nakapatong sa lamesa. He lifted up and looks at her. Leila
smiles as she looks at her husband.
Huminga si Leila ng malalim at umiling-iling. “It looks delicious for me.” she
cheers up her husband.
They both smile and start to eat their breakfast.
“Are you really okay? Going school tomorrow?” nagaalalang sabi ni Jed. He thinks
Leila still need rest but she insist that she can do well now. “Pano yung bilin ng
doktor?” Jed keeps on pushing her not to go back to school.
“I’m fine... really. Besides, ilang araw ka nang naka leave... I know marami ka
ring ginagawa.” Ani Leila.
Jed pulls his chair closer to Leila. He put his both palms on his wife’s cheeks.
“You know...” he smiles as he pinch Leila’s face. “Okay lang sa akin hindi pumasok
kahit isang taon pa. I just wanted you to feel how much I care for you... How much
I wanted to be with you.” then he kisses her forehead.
Hindi maitago ni Leila ang kilig. She keeps on smiling. Sana ganito na lang kami
habang buhay...
“We can still have time together right now?” ani Leila.
“Saan mo gusting pumunta ngayon?”
Leila already thinks of something to be done already. She smiles as he looks at her
husband.
“I know the right thing to do...” she smiles.
---------------------------------
[AN: Play Background song (Stay Stay Stay- Taylor Swift) Lyric Video on the
side---------------->>>]

“Ready?” ani Leila as she turns on the faucet.
Jed smiles as he shurgs. And then they start washing the dishes.
“Ahhh!” Leila screams as Jed splash bubbles to her.
Gumanti rin naman si Leila at binasa si Jed. They enjoy washing dishes together.
Matapos hugasan ang mga pinggan ay naglaba naman sila ni Jed. Tamabak na kasi ang
labahin nila. They did all the chores with fun. This is the first time they enjoy
doing same things together.
The last thing they did is to water their garden.
Tig-isa sila ng host na gamit. Jed looks at her wife happily watering the plants.
Nasisikatan ng araw ang mala perlas na balat ni Leila. She has this smooth and fair
skin. The wind blows her medium-wavy hair. Pinagmamasdan siya ni Jed with that
different kind of look... that special look.
Jed realizes kung gaano kahirap ang araw-araw na ginagawa ni Leila. Ang pagsilbihan
siya sa matagal na panahon... mahalin siya kahit na nasasaktan na siya ng sobra-
sobra.
Naalimpungatan si Jed sa pagiisip nang mapansing nakatingin si Leila sa kanya.

Nakangiti ito... tila naramdaman niyang namula ang kanyang pisngi.
“Jed? Are you okay?” pagaalalang tanong ni Leila.
Umiwas ng tingin si Jed sa asawa. “Y-yeah... o-okay lang ako.” Jed clears his
throat.
“Baka naman naiinitan ka na? namumula na yung mukha mo oh.” Ani Leila.
“hi-hindi ha. Okay lang ako.”

Leila grins. “Ows? Hindi ka naman sanay sa mga ganitong Gawain eh!”
“I said I’m fine.” Matipid na sagot ni Jed.
Mahinang tumawa si Leila. “Ganun? Edi magpalamig ka muna!” then itinapat niya yung
host sa mukha ni Jed.
Jed was so wet. While Leila keeps on laughing. Then suddenly Jed glares at Leila
that cause her to stop from laughing.
“Ganon ha?” at gumanti rin si Jed.
Water splash all over the garden. Basang basa sila pareho habang naghahabulan sa
garden. They keep on running with each other habang nagbabasaan. When Jed caught
Leila, he hugs her from its back.
Agad na bumilis ang tibok ng puso ni Leila. She smiles instantly and turns around
Jed. She hugs her so tight. Still, there is the effect of the water splash from the
host.
“I love you Jed. I’m wishing right now...” ibinaon niya ang kanyang baba sa dibdib
ni Jed at ngumiti. “That this could last forever.”
Jed smiles and kisses her forehead.
*****
“Are you sure? Okay ka na? Kaya mo nang pumasok?” nagaalala parin si Jed.
Nasa sasakyan sila ngayon ni Leila at nakapark sa parking lot ng school.
Leila smiles and grips Jed’s face. “Wag ka nap o magalala ok? We need to do our
responsibilities. Ikaw sa company... ako naman dito sa school. I’m fine and I’ll be
fine as long as you’re right by my side okay?” she gives her sweetest smile.
Jed smiles as he nod.

Bumaba na ng sasakyan si Leila. She waves at her husband before she walks toward
the building.
Pagpasok niya sa loob ng room ay sinalubong siya ng mahigpit na yakap ng magpinsan.
“Uwaaaahhhh! Chhhaaannnn! Na-miss kita ng sobraaaa!” pagngawa ni Charlotte.
“Uwaaaahhhh! Chhhhaaaannn! Bumalik ka naaa! Ikaw na ulit ang reyna ditooo!” sabi
naman ni Chester na mayhalong pagseselos.
Napangiti na lang si Leila. Ikinuwento niya sa magpinsan ang mga nangyari noong
nagkasakit siya.
“Ehmhegherddd! Pano na ang love story naming ni fafa Jeeeddd!” agad na reaction ni
Chester.
Mahinang hinampas ni Charlotte ang pinsan sa ulo. “Loka! Loka! Wala kayong
mabubuong love story ni Jed noh! Wala ka naming matres! Anong feeling mo? My
husband’s lover lang ang peg niyo?” inis na sabi nito sa pinsan. She turn her looks
back to Leila. “So ano? Are you relly giving that second chance?”
Leila smiles. “Yeah, lahat naman nang tao kailangan ng second chance diba? Besides,
bata pa kami... we still have to face lots of problem. If this time... hindi talaga
nag work, I’ll be the one to end it up.”
“Eh si Pat? Alam na ba niya ‘to?” sabi ni Charlotte.
Umiling-iling lang si Leila. Patrick has to know about it. Besides, it was her best
friend.
------------------
Leila texted Jed na baka ma-late siya ng uwi. Magkikita kasi sila ni Patrick
ngayon. It bothers her mind kaya kailangan na niyang makausap ito.
Nagkita sila sa mall.
“Hi Lei! Okay ka na ba?” sabi ni Patrick as he sits down. They were at a fast food.
Leila just nod. “Yeah. Uhm, Pat? I need to tell you something...”
Patrick smirks. “C’mon. Mamaya na natin pag-usapan yan. Na-miss ko yung best friend
ko eh! Laro tayo sa TimeZone! Sagot ko.” hindi na nakatanggi pa si Leila.
They play games at Time Zone. Halos lahat ng laro na meron doon ay nilaro nila.
Nang mapagod sila ay naglakad-lakad sila sa pathway sa labas ng mall.
Mahangin dahil gabi na rin. Lalong binabagabag ang kalooban niya dahil hanggang
ngayon ay hindi parin niya nasasabi kay Pat ito.
They were walking at the pathway holding hands. She looks at her best friend and
smile.
“Patrick? Can I say it now?” Pat looks at her and that smiling face turns into
sadness.
Looks like alam na ni Pat ang sasabihin niya. But Leila still insited to say it to
him personaly.
Umupo sila sa isang bench doon. Huminga ng malalim si Leila bago siya magsalita.
“Jed and I, we’re starting to fix our marriage.” She looks directly at Patric who’s
siting beside her.
Malayo ang tingin ni Pat. He smiles as Leila finished her talks. “Yeah I know,
sinabi na sa akin kanina ni Jed bago ka pa mag txt.” he looks at Leila with that
same smile he always gives to her. “Thanks for telling me though.”
Nakahinga na nang maluwag si Leila. sumandal siya sa sandalan ng inuupuan nilang

bench.
“You know what, I’m scared... natatakot ako nab aka hindi talaga mag work tong
marriage namin...” she pause for a second. Tumingala siya sa kalangitan. Walang
stars ngayon sa langit. “But if this didn’t really work out, ako na mismo ang
tatapos nito.” She said.
Patrick sighs deeply. He looks at her. “then...”
Napatingin si Leila kay Patrick. She can see seriousness within his eyes. “If that
time comes, puwede bang ako naman ang bigyan mo ng chance?”
*****
Anong oras na? alalang-alala na si Jed sa asawa. Maaga siyang umuwi dahil hindi rin
siya makapag trabaho dahil si Leila lang ang pumapasok sa isipan niya.
Palakad-lakad siya sa sala habang pabalik-balik ang tingin sa orasan at sa pintuan.

He’s waiting for his wife to came home.
Natatakot siyang baka hindi na bumalik si Leila at tuluyan na siyang iniwan nito.
Nagusap kasi sila ni Patrick kanina about sa plano nila ni Leila—that they’ll fix
their marriage. Natatakot siyang baka kuhain ni Patrick si Leila at hindi na ito
bumalik pa sa kanya.
He keeps on looking at the time then at the door. It’s almost 9 o’clock in the
evening. He really is worried.
Agad siyang lumabas ng pintuan nang marinig niya ang tunog ng sasakyan. He felt
relieved nang makitang si Leila ang bumaba sa taxi. Napansin siya nito nang
makababa na nang taxi. Leila smiles at him and wave her hands.
Nang makaalis na at nakapag bayad na si Leila sa cab ay agad na binuksan ni Jed ang
gate para salubungin ang asawa.
Laking gulat ni Leila nang makita ang asawa. “Oh? Bakit--”

Hindi na natapos ni Leila ang sasabihin niya. Jed hugs her nang makalapit ito sa
kanya.
“J-jed?” hindi makagalaw si Leila sa kinatatayuan niya.
Napakahigpit nang pagkakayakap sa kanya ni Jed. Para bang nakatagal na nilang hindi
nagkitang dalawa. But Leila smiles as she feels that warmth from Jed. Napakasarap
sa pakiramdam.
“Natakot ako... akala ko iiwan mo na ko... I am so paranoid while waiting for you.
nababaliw na ako sa kakaisip kung anong ginagawa niyo ni Pat o saan kayo nag
punta... kung anu-ano na yung tumatakbo sa isip ko...” then he chuckles. “but I’m
so happy to see you standing in front of me... smiling.”
Kumalas na si Jed sa pagkakayakad kay Leila. hinawakan niya ang magkabilang pisngi
nito.
He kisses his wife... the most sweet yet passionate kiss. He kisses his wife from
its lips.
Bumilis ang tibok nang puso ni Leila. hindi siya makapag salita. Nakatitig lang
siya kay Jed na nakangiting pinagmamasdan rin ang kanyang mukha.
“Buong araw, ikaw ang laman ng isip ko. I can’t live another day without you by my
side...” he paused. Then he kiss her forehead. “Then I realize this day...”
“I realize this day how much I love you... I love you Leila. And that’s the truth.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
Everyone deserves a second chance... once you have it, never let go of that chance.
Because that one chance is once in a life time that someday you might regret for
taking it forgranted.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
Anne's Note: Hi guys?! How's life?
Oppsss! Before anything else! I know some of you may be dissapointed by the update?
yeah I'm sure meron jan =))
Pero ikinalulungkot kong sabihin sa inyo na ayoko pa munang matapos yung story. I
still have plans for Jed and Leila. Meron rin naman syempre para kay Patrick =))
pero I don't think it's the right time. Gusto kong matapos 'tong story na 'to na
may magandang ending at tatatak sa ating lahat. Yung tipong maaalala natin once we
finish reading this story. =))
Still, walang sawa po akong nagPAPASALAMAT SA INYONG LAHAT NA NAGBABASA! Natuwa ako
sa mga comments niyo from the previous chapter. Sorry hindi na rin ako maka reply
sa ibang comments niyo. kinda busy right now. =))
pero salamat po talaga nang marami!!!! >//////<
Natuwa rin ako nang makita kong nagka place itong story na 'to sa ChickLit at 90
something last time and sa Romance around 400 something. HAHAHA! Pagpasensyahan
niyo na. mababaw ang kaligayahan ko. Pero masaya talaga ako sa mga comments at
message niyo.
I'm dedicating this chapter to heyitsmelyza Hi friend! Thank you sa msg sa MB at sa

PM. It really touched me :">
So? gusto mo rin ba nang dedic sa story na 'to? Just sen me or comment your
reaction about this story and don't forget to ask dedic from me. Wahahaha! Mabait
po ako PRAMIS! Di po ako nangangagat! :DD
So, I hope you like the update for now. I'm making this clear po. I don't have
definite time or day nang schedule nang update. I do updates as I finish typing =))
I'm just clearing things kasi yung iba yun yung madalas na comment. Asking when
will be the next update. Hindi po talaga ako nagr-reply sa mga ganung comment kasi
hindi ko alam kung anong isasagot ko. I don't have deadline or something. Hindi
naman ko naman po kasi trabaho ito. It's just my hobby. My stress reliever
kumbaga. (kaya di po ako masungit or snob ha? hehe.) =))
God bless~!
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 13
Chapter 13:
Leila’s POV
Ang bilis nang tibok ng puso ko... nang halikan niya ako, I know... it’s not the
first time he kissed me. That’s not the first time Jed had kissed me... but it’s as
if it was the first time. His lips that touches mine, I can say that it was true.
That it was real. It’s the most magical moment I had ever experience, and I’ll
never forget about it.
Lalong lumundag ang puso ko nang sabihin niyang mahal niya ako... at totoo ‘yon. I
believe in him, not just because he is my husband but because I love him and I can
feel it.
Simula noong gabing ‘yon, things had change. Everything has changed between the two
of us. Kung noon, parang wala siyang pakielam sa akin. Ngayon? He’s much caring. We
spend so much time together, we do fun stuffs together, and I can say we’re happily
living in the same roof.
It’s almost like a dream for me. Isang pangarap na akala ko mananatili na lang na
pangarap. Yung kahit latak na pagmamahal pilit ko pang hinihingi sa kanya noon...
I’ve had received so much love right now. Pakiramdam ko nga, umaapaw na ako sa
sobra-sobrang kaligayahan.
Today’s September 27. It’s Sunday and it’s my 20th birthday. Yes, it’s been a year
since we have decided to fix our marriage. We faces different kinds of challenges
and we’re happily facing obstacles together.
“Happy birthday babe.” Jed whispers to my ears. Then he kiss me on my cheeks.
I look at him as I smile. We’re lying on his bed. It’s Sunday morning and I am
already filled with love. What more do I have to wish for my birthday? God had
already gaves me a wonderful gift. And I thank Him for giving me and Jed a second
chance.
“Good morning.” He greeted me as he kisses my forehead.
Niyakap ko pa siya ng mas mahigpit. I buried my face on his chest. Ganito na ang
naging set-up namin for a year. We sleep together, eat together, and do things
together. We really are, like a married couple enjoying life together.
Few more minutes that we stayed lying on bed. Parang pareho na kaming ayaw
bumangon.
“Anong gusto mong gawin natin ngayong birthday mo?” he asks me.
Nakahiga parin kami at magkayakap. I’m feeling relax and comfortable lying beside
him.
“Kahit ano...” I look at him again. “basta kasama kita masaya na ako.” Then I
smiled at him.
We decided to go outside by evening to eat dinner. Nagtataka nga ako kay Jed kasi
pinagsuot niya pa ako ng formal dress. Sabi niya sa isang class A restaurant kami
kakain. We have to wear formal dresses. I just wear off white na chiffon. I updo my
hair. Hindi ako marunong maglagay ng make up kaya lipstick lang ang nailagay ko.
I was walking down stairs. Nasa baba si Jed waiting for me. My eyes were pinned on
him. I smile as he smiles at me. Nang makababa na ako, he drags me closer to him.
He grins at me and it made me blush.
He kiss me.
“I love you...” he said between our kisses. “Ang ganda talaga ng asawa ko...”
I smiled at him. Hinampas ko nang bahagya ang balikat niya. “Bolero!” I giggle. I
glimpse a peck of kiss. “I love you too.” Kumalas na ako sa pagkakayakap niya at
hinawakan ang kamay niya. “Let’s go?” pagaya ko sa kanya.
Hindi sinabi sa akin ni Jed kung saan ba talaga kami pupunta. Whenever I ask him,
he only answers with a smile. So I let him be until makarating kami sa isang
malaking gate na nababalutan nang mga gumagapang na halaman.
The gate automatically opened for us. Ipinasok ni Jed ang sasakyan. We stop in the
front of the fountain.
May nagbukas nang pintuan para sa akin. Mukha siyang butler dahil sa suot niya.
Inalalayan niya ako sa pagbaba sa sasakyan.
Nang makalapat na ang mga paa ko sa lupa ay may musikang tumugtog mula sa violin.
Then I realize na nasa aisle pala ako. Natatapakan ko ang pulang carpet na nagkalat
ang mga puting rosas. Sinundan ko ng tingin ang daan ng carpet, it lead me to see
Jed standing holding a bouquet of red roses. Nakangiti siyang nakatayo sa harapan
ng fountain.
Para bang slow motion ang paglalakad ko papunta kay Jed. I’m looking straight at
his eyes. My smile won’t fade. Sobra-sobra na ang sayang nararamdaman ko. ang sarap
sa pakiramdam...
When I am already in front of Jed, he hugs me so tight... so warm. He kiss me on my
cheeks and give the flowers to me.
“Happy birthday Mrs Leila Chan-Sy.” I look at the flowers. It was beautiful. I
return my looks at him. He was still smiling. “I love you.”
Hindi ko alam kung iiyak ba ako o mapapangiti. I wanna cry because of the happiness
that I am feeling right now. I am so filled with love... the love that I am
receiving right now from Jed.
I hug him so tight. “Thanks Jed. Thanks for loving me back...” tuluyan nang tumulo
ang luha mula sa mga mata ko. “Thanks for making me feel how much you love me.”
Kumalas ako sa pagkakayakap. Hinawakan niya ang magkabilang pisngi ko and wipe my
tears. I smile.
“Don’t cry, I love you.” then he kiss my forehead.
Inilagay niya yung kamay ko on his arms. “Shall we?”
Naglakad kami papasok. The place was majestic. It was like I’ve entered into a
secret garden. Ang peaceful ng paligid. It was like I was inside a covered garden.
I can see butterflies fly everywhere. Nadirinig ko rin ang pag agos ng tubig sa
isang manmade water fall. At the center of a pavillon, mayroong isang table at
dalawang upuan. The table had decoration. It’s like a candlelight dinner.
I look at Jed as I smile. I am really happy.
We start to eat dinner.
“Do you like here?” Jed utters.
I smile as I nod. “I love it! I didn’t expect you’ll come up with a surprise like
this.”
We both laugh. “Syempre, I wanted to surprise you. I wanted to make you happy.”
I feel touched sa sinabi ni Jed.

After we finished eating, we dance within the beat of the music.
[AN: Do play on the multimedia (First Love- Utada Hikaru Played by Violin)
--------------------------->>>]
I can feel the love everywhere I look around. It feels like everything’s
sparkling... even Jed shines in my eyes.
“I love you Jed...” I said.
I hug him bbut we’re still dancing. We were slowly swaying on the sound of the
music.
“I love you more.” He replied. I hug him more tightly.
I am blessed... I am so much bless to have him with me. And I’ll never stop
thanking God for giving what I have always dreamed. For giving me Jed’s love.
“Hindi ko inaakalang magiging masaya tayo nang ganito. This is what I have always
dreamed of.”
“There’s nothing we can do to change our past...” kumalas siya sa pagkakayakap sa

akin. He cupped my face and smile at me. “But now, this is what we’ve got...” he
kiss me on my forehead. “This day and forward will be ours... this is our start
into a better future.” he smiles at me. “To change what we have done from the past
and correct it in the proceeding days.”
He kiss me again on my lips. “And I’ll love you more today than yesterday...” he
hugs me again. “I thanked God for giving us this second chance. And I am happy...
so happy to be in love with you.”
Tumagos sa puso ko lahat ng sinabi niya. Simula nang maayos namin ang marriage
namin ni Jed, walang araw akong hindi nanging masaya. I am so happy na hindi ko
pinakawalan ang pagkakataon na ‘to... now I am so happy at wala na akong mahihiling
pa.
Naluluha ako habang magkayakap kami ngayon ni Jed at nagsasayaw. “Hindi mo lang
alam Jed, kung gaano ako kasaya ngayon... sa piling mo. I love you even more each
time passes by.”
Kung noon, mas madalas ako ang nagpaparamdam ng pagmamahal ko para sa kanya.
Ngayon? He gives it back at sobra-sobra pa. And I’ll be forever greatful for it.
“You know what?” he utters. We we’re still dancing.
Napatingin ako kay Jed. “I can see our future right now...” he said while smiling.
Napangiti rin ako sa sinabi niya. “I can vision... sabay tayong tatanda, nakaupo
tayong dalawa habang pinagmamasdan yung mga apo natin na masayang naglalaro. We
we’re so happy and peaceful. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam nang ganon. You were the only
one I can think of... Ikaw lang naiisip kong babaeng makakasama ko sa pagtanda ko.”
ang saya-saya ni Jed habang ikinukuwento niya sa akin yung mga visions niya sa
pagtanda namin.
We have the same vision. Siya lang ang lalaking gusto kong makasama sa pagtanda...
I know and I can feel how much he loves me. How much he wanted to be with me.
Ganoon din naman siya sa akin. We never failed na iparamdam kung gaano namin
kamahal ang isa’t-isa.
We just keep on dancing. Slowly taking steps hanggang sa nakarinig ako ng pagputok
nang kung ano.
Napatingin ako kung saan nanggaling yung tunog.
“SURPRISE!” nakita ko ang mga kaibigan ko at kaibigan ni Jed.
May hawak silang banner na nakasulat ang: HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEILA~! napangiti ako sa
surpresa nila. I didn’t expect na nandito sila. They were wearing party hats. Hawak
naman ni Spencer yung cake na may candles.
They sing happy birthday as they walk towards me and Jed.
Nang matapos ang kanta sabaysabay nila ako binati ng happy birthday.
“Blow you’re candle!” sabi ni Charlotte.
I smile as I close my eyes and make a wish.
Thank you po sa lahat ng happiness at blessings na natatanggap ko ngayon. Wala na

po akong mahihiling pa. Sana lang po, panghabang buhay na lang ang kaligayahan kong
‘to. Sana magkasama making tumanda ni Jed.
I blow the candles at nagpalakpakan silang lahat.
“Happy birthday Chhaaaannn! Waley na akey maheyheyleng pey pere seyo! Kasi nese ye
ne eng lehet!” Chester utters. I laugh.
“Seriously guys? You surprised me! Hindi ko expect na nandito rin kayo at kasabwat
kayo ni Jed.” I said while looking at each of them. “Lalo na kayo...” I look at
Jed’s friends. “Jasper, Spencer, Stephanie... busy kayo pero nag effort kayo para
lang sa akin.” I looked at my own friends. “Char... Ches... thank you sa lahat-
lahat. You two are my first friend. I treasured both of you.” then I turn my looks
at my most special friend. “Sa’yo Patrick, thank you kasi parati kang nanjan sa
tabi ko. nakasuporta sa kahit na anong gawin ko. you really are my best friend!”
I heard Jed clears his throat kaya napatingin ako sa kanya. I look at him
smiling... this guy’s really makes me crazy. Kahit kasi hanggang ngayon na isang
taon na ang nakalilipas, he’s still jealous with Pat.
“More than anyone else, I thank God for giving me a guy like you...” I was still
looking at him.
I kiss him. Naghiyawan naman sila kaya medyo nahiya ako.

Nang makauwi kami ni Jed nang bahay ay 11:30 na ng gabi. Nasa harap ako ngayon nang
pintuan ng kuwarto ko. Jed and I we’re facing each other smiling. Hinawi niya yung
buhok ko na natatakpan ang mukha ko. He tuck it in on my ears as he smiles.
“I love you so much Leila...” he whispers to my ears.
It felt like my spine chills. Nakaramdam ako nang kaba at lamig with the kind of
voice Jed has. Hinawakan niya ang magkabilang pisngi ko and smile at me.
He kiss me on my forehead... napapikit ako nang halikan niya yung noo ko.
Napatingin ako kay Jed, he was smiling at me. I smile at him.
Then, he kisses my nose... down to my chin... and then to my lips. That soft-
passionate kiss.
I locked my arms around his neck. I almost lean down but he supported my back using
his one hand while the other one was placed on my other thigh. “I love you
Leila...”he keeps on repeating those words between our kisses.
Our kiss went deeper and deeper. Ngayon lang niya ako hinalikan nang ganito. I can
feel the intensity getting higher and higher. I can feel excitement within me. I am
enjoying this kiss. His lips that touches mine... it made me more crazier.
Naramdaman ko na lang na binuksan na pala ni Jed ang pintuan nang kuwarto ko. He
pinned me on the wall but we didn’t stop from kissing. I can feel the atmosphere’s
getting hotter. I wanted to take off his clothes. Then I realize I was unbuttoning
his polo. He help me taking it off but we were still kissing. When he had taken off
his polo I can now finaly feel his bear skin. It made my cheeks getting hotter and
hotter.
I wanted something more...
Slowly, I realize Jed’s kissing my neck already.
“Jed...” I called his name. His lips came back on mine. It made my eyes close.
We walk towards my bed and we both lay down. He’s on my top and I can still feeling
that sensation. I’m really wanting more... but I had a second thought... am I
ready?
Unti-unti nanamang bumababa yung halik ni Jed... pababa sa leeg ko. I can feel he’s
unzipping my dress. Few more try to undress me, he had successfully did it. Medyo
nahiya pa ako nang pinagmasadan niya ako and he smile. I am not naked but I am only
wearing my undergarments nalang.
I thought he’ll gona continue our session but I was wrong.
He smiles at me and kiss me on my forehead. Itinaklob ni Jed sa katawan ko yung

kumot at niyakap ako nang napakahigpit. Nagulat ako sa ginawa niya... I thought
tonight would be that night... but maybe I was wrong.
Niyakap ko rin siya. He kiss again my forehead. “I love you Leila, I know you’re
not ready for it...” Hinigpitan pa niya lalo ang pagkakayakap sa akin. “It will
have to wait until the right time. Pero darating rin tayo jan... hindi lang sa
ngayon. I treasured you the most babe. Let’s just sleep. Good night.” Then he gave
a peck on my lips.
Medyo nakaramdam ako ng tuwa sa mga sinabi ni Jed. He respects me and he will wait
for the right time. On the second thought, part of me says I was disappointed. I’m
sure my body wants more but my mind is not mentally prepared for it.
Halos isang taon na rin na magkasama kami ni Jed na natutulog sa iisang kama. Kung
minsan sa kuwarto niya, kung minsan naman ay sa kuwarto ko. Kung saan kami dapuan
ng antok ay doon kami matutulog. Pero wala pang nangyayari sa aming dalawa. Kaya
nasanay na akong nasatabi ko parati si Jed sa pagtulog ko. At hindi na ako
natatakot sa dilim dahil alam kong hindi na ako nag iisa ngayong kasama ko si
Jed...
*****
Ang bilis lumipas nang mga araw. Masaya kaming magkasama ni Jed sa bahay. I made
his lunch bago siya dumiretsyo nang opisina. Ihinahatid naman niya ako minsan sa
school kapag wala gaano siyang paper works.
It’s January and it’s almost back to school again for me. Jed and I had celebrated
Christmas and New Year together with his family. Still, umasa parin akong
makakamusta ko ang pamilya ko sa China pero kapag tumatawag ako at nangangamusta sa
kanila yung mga maids nila ang sumasagot at ang parating sagot nila ay wala ang mga
tao sa bahay kundi ang mga kasambahay. Pero hindi parin ako sumusuko sa pag asang
makakasama ko rin sila at matatanggap nila ako... na mapapansin nila yung existence
ko.
Naging maayos naman ang mga tao sa paligid namin ni Jed. Ang mga kaibigan niya...
Si Jasper, Spencer at Steph. Mababait silang tatlo. Kung minsan nga lang malakas
mambola si Spencer at Jasper. Napakabait naman sa akin ni Steph. Madalas kasi
silang bumisita sa bahay kapag hindi sila busy. Nagkaroon nga kami nang outing nito
lang linggo bago magsimula ulit ang pasukan, syempre kasama ko rin naman ang mga
kaibigan kong si Charlotte at Chester. Walang pagbabago sa dalawang ‘to. They we’re
still the same person’s I have known since first year of college. Ngayon, dalawang
semester na lang at graduate na kami.
Si Patrick naman at Jed, naging ok na silang dalawa. Hindi man naibalik yung dating
closeness nila, malapit parin naman silang mag kaibigan. Natatawa nga ako kay Jed
kapag nagseselos siya sa kaibigan niya na itinuturing ko ring best friend sa tuwing
nagkakasama kami. Bihira ko na lang nagagawan ng lunch si Pat dahil sa hindi na
naman siya pumapasok ng school.
Ako at si Pat naman, ok na rin kami. Although inamin niya sa akin na may
nararamdaman parin siya para sa akin but our friendship was on top on it.
Si Jed at Amanda, wala na kaming balita tungkol sa kanya. Hindi na nagparamdam pa

si Amanda. If I remember gumawa nang e-mail si Jed kay Amanda a year ago about sa
nararamdaman niya. Hindi lang namin alam kung natanggap niya ba ‘to kaya hindi na
siya muling nagpakita sa amin. Si Shane na ang nag-take over nang negosyo nila.
Even him and Jed’s and Amanda’s mutual friends aya walang balita sa kanya.
Kakatapos lang ng klase ko. Sabi ni Jed susunduin niya daw ako kaya nandito ako
ngayon sa may waiting shed ng campus. Kasama ko si Charlotte at Chester.
I texted Jed kung saan ako naghihintay sa kaniya. Sabi naman nila Charlotte
sasamahan nila ako hanggang sa dumating si Jed.
“Meeee isssss huuungggrryyy naaaa!” reklamo ni Chester.
Hinampas naman siya sa ulo ni Charlotte. “Ang arte mo bakla ka! Diba kumain ka na
kanina?”
Nag pout ito sa pinsan. “Eeeehh! Kanina pa yun eeehhh! Hindi pa ba darating si fafa
Jed?”
“Gaga! Kaloka ka! Kauupo pa nga lang natin dito inip ka na agad?”
“Couz naman eh!”
They keep on fighting. Then I receive a message from Jed. Sabi niya sa message
he’ll be here in ten minutes.
“Ano nang status niyo ngayon ha? Chan?” Chester suddenly utters.
Napatingin ako sa kanilang dalawa. They we’re smiling as if something was on their
mind. Napakunot ang noo ko sa sinabi nila. Hindi ko kasi ma gets kung ano iyon.
“Naka base na ba?” bigla namang sabi ni Charlotte.
“H-ha?”
They rolled their eyes. “Ang sabi namin kung may nangyari na ba sa inyo ni fafa
Jed?!” pasigaw na sabi ni Chester.
Sa gulat ko nang bitawan ni Chester ang mga salitang ‘yon ay napatili ako at
hinawakan ko ang bibig niya.
“A-ano b-bayang pinag s-sabi n-niyo! W-wala ha!” I reason. Hindi ko mapigilang
mautal sa pagsasalita. Nakakahiya kasi yung iniisip nila.
They look at me as if hindi sila naniniwala sa sinabi ko.
“Misiki isang beses lang?” pangungulit ng magpinsan.
“H-hindi nga! We just kiss but nothing’s went b-beyond it!” hiyang hiya na ako sa
mga sinasabi nila Char at Ches. Hindi ko na alam ang isasagot ko.
Wala naman talagang nangyari sa aming dalawa.

Buti na lang at dumating na si Jed. Bumababa siya sa sasakyan at Kinuha yung bag
ko. Nang halikan niya ako sa pisngi ay humiyaw naman si Char at Ches. I signed the
two to keep quite pero wala na akong nagawa pa.
Nagpaalam na ako sa magpinsan.
“Bye Chan!” ani Charlotte.
“Bye fafa Jed! Galingan mo ha? Para makabuo kato nang isang basketball team ha?”
sarcastic na sabi ni Chester bago pa kami makasakay.
Halos mamula ako sa sinabi ni Chester. He shouts it all over the ground. Hiyang-
hiya ako kay Jed nang makasakay kami nang kotse niya. Habang siya naman ay tumawa
lang sa sinabi ni Chester. I can’t look at him. Nahihiya talaga ako.
Napansin kong hindi pa niya pinapaandar yung sasakyan kaya napatingin ako sa kanya.
Halos tumalon ang puso ko nang makita ko siyang titig na titig sa akin. He was
smiling but I can see the difference of that smile.
I looked at him puzzled. “Are you okay?” diretsyong sabi ni Jed.
Hindi ko alam kung napapansin ba niya ang pamumula nang pisngi ko dahil sa kakaiba
ang ngiti niya.
“O-okay lang ako.” Pero hindi parin ako makatingin nang diretsyo sa sobrang
kahihiyan.
Bigla niyang hinawakan ang kamay ko kaya napatingin ako sa kanya. He still has that
kind of smile. “Do you want to?”
“H-ha?”
He shurgs at ngumuso. He’s pointing outside his window. “Makabuo nang isang
basketball team?”
Nanalaki ang mata ko sa sinabi ni Jed kaya’ta nahampas ko siya sa balikat. “J-jed
naman!” I scream.
He was just laughing at me habang ako hiyang-hiya. I don’t know why, dapat nga ay
open na ako sa mga ganoong usapan pero there’s inside of me na pakiramdam ko ay
napaka sensitive ko sa mga ganoong usapan.
Nang tumigil na siya sa pagtawa ay humarap ako sa kanya.
“You’re the only woman whom I want bear with my children.” Naginit ang mga pisngi
ko sa sinabi niya.
He held my hand and kiss it. And he starts to drive.
Kumain lang kami sa isang restaurant. Madalas kaming ganito ni Jed kapag wala
siyang madaming gawain sa company. He’ll pick me up and then we’re gonna eat dinner
outside .
“Anong balak mong gawain after mong maka-graduate?” Jed’s asking about my future
plans after my graduation.
Nakahiga kami ngayon sa kama niya. My head was lying on his chest habang marahang
hinahaplos ang buhok ako habang ang isang kamay naman niya ay nakahawak sa isang
kamay ko.
Napatingin ako sa tanong ni Jed. Ano nga bang gusto kong gawain after kong maka
graduate?
Hinigpitan ko ang pagkakayakap ko kay Jed. “I don’t know, I just wanted to be with
you... that’s all.”
I can feel his breathing. “You know what babe?” napaangat ang ulo ko. I look at
Jed. “You should enroll in culinary. Malay mo maging chef ang misis ko!” tuwang-
tuwang sabi ni Jed sabay halik sa pisngi ko.
Napaisip ako sa sinabi ni Jed. Should I do it? Jed knows and everybody knows how
much I love cooking. Actually, ayun nga ang gusto kong kunin noon na course kaso
gusto kong maging proud ang family ko sa China dahil sa pinili ko ang course na
gusto nila para sa akin.
“Then we will build our own restaurant... what do you think?” I can see sparks
shines on Jed’s eyes as he talks. I am part of his future. I’m so happy.
I just nod as a sign of approving on his idea.
Agad rin naman akong nakatulog matapos ang paguusap naming ‘yon.
*****
Nararamdaman ko ang sikat nang araw. Unti-unti kong minulat ang mga mata ko. I
found myself lying Jed’s bed... but he was not here. I look in every corner of his
room, wala siya. Then suddenly I heared na may nag s-shower sa banyo.
Kumatok ako. “J-jed? Anjan ka ba?” I can still hear the water coming from the
shower.
“Yeah. Wanna join me?” he’s using a sexy kind of voice that makes my spine shiver.
Agad akong napaatras sa pintuan. “A-ah... e-eh, no. I’ll wait for you to finish na
lang.”
Ang bilis nang tibok ng puso ko. Kinakabahan ako nang sobra dahil sa mga
pinagsasabi ni Jed. Bihira naman kumilos nang ganito si Jed. Bihira niya ipakita
ang pagiging pilyo niya but whenever he does... it makes my heart beats really
fast.
Palabas na sana ako nang madinig kong mag ring ang phone ni Jed.
“Jed? Yung phone mo may tumatawag yata?” I scream pero parang hindi niya yata ako
nadirinig.
Lumapit ako sa phone ni Jed na nakapatong sa side table. Tiningnan ko kung sino ang
tumatawag pero unknown ang number nito.
Nalingon ko ang pintiuan nang banyo ni Jed. Sasagutin ko kaya ang tawag?
“Jed? Can I answer the call?” still wala paring response si Jed.
Kinuha ko ang phone ni Jed and I fetch the call.
I was about to ask kung sino itong tumatawag...
“Jed?”
Natigilan ako. Hindi ako makakilos sa kinatatayuan ko. Nanginginig ang buo kong
katawan sa boses na narinig ko. Naiwan na nakaawang nang bahagya ang bibig ko.
Nangangatal ako. Parang naninikip ang dibdib ko. Hindi ako makahinga.
“J-jed? I-t’s me, Amanda.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
No man is worth your tears, but once you find one that is, he won’t make you cry.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Anne's Note:
Hello guys? hows your summer?

Hey, it's lenten season! Tayong lahat ay magnilaynilay at alalahanin ang sakripisyo
ni Jesus para sa ating mga kasalanan. (Tha's for Catholics like me.)
Anyhow. This is the update for now. Hope you like it guys! Sorry if natagalan?
Medyo busy na po kasi ako. Malapit na kasi mag start Summer Class. You know water
proofs! :D
May summer classes ako kasi required po yun sa course ko. Kapag hindi ako nag
summer hindi po ako makaka-graduate on time :(( kaya pagpasensyahan niyo na kung
kayo ay masaya at nage-enjoy sa tag init habang ako ay nagaaral sa tag init. :DD
I'll shall update soon. Maybe within the next week.
SUPER THANK YOU SA VOTES FROM THE PREVIOUS CHAPTER! SA COMMENTS NIYO NA NAKAKATABA
NG PUSO! Hehe, kaya ako manaba eh --____-- but I'm still greatful to all of you
guys! THANK YOU DIN SA MGA NAG ADD SA RL NILA! I LOVE YOU GUYS! :**
God bless~! :">
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 14
Chapter 14:
“Babe?” I suddenly realize na kanina pa pala ako ako kinakausap ni Jed. “Are you
ok?” he sounds so worried about me.
Huminga ako ng malalim at ngumiti sa kanya. “Yeah, ok lang ako. A-ano nga palang
sinasabi mo?”
Napailing si Jed habang nakangiti. “Ang sabi ko we should went out for grocery
paubos na yung supply natin dito sa bahay.”
“Ah ok.” Mahina kong sabi.
I can’t still erase it on my mind. That phone call.
Naramdaman ko na lang na hinawakan ni Jed ang kamay ko. “Are you really ok?” kunot
noong tanong niya. Tumango na lang ako at ipinagpatuloy ang pagkain.
Kinakabahan ako... alam kong hindi ko dapat iniisip ang mga ganitong bagay. May
tiwala ako kay Jed dahil mahal ko siya.
Kanina, nang marinig ko ang boses ni Amanda mula sa kabilang line ng phone ni
Jed... bumalik lahat ng sakit sa akin.
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng takot... yung takot na baka iwanan na ako ni Jed at
bumalik kami sa dati.
We’re at the dining table and we’re having breakfast.
Kanina, nang sinagot ko yung tawag... that phone call from Amanda. Hindi ko alam
kung tama ba yung ginawa kong ‘yon. Sa sobrang takot ko... hindi na ako nakapag
isip pa nang maayos.
That so much fear in me... I ended the call nung ma-confirm ko ngang si Amanda
‘yon.
Sa sobrang takot ko kanina, I deleted the call. Kaya tuliro parin ako ngayon dahil
natatakot akong baka tumawag muli sa Amanda. Natatakot akong sagutin ito ni Jed...
yung totoo, natatakot ako na baka bumalik si Jed kay Amanda at iwanan na niya ako
ng tuluyan.
Ang dami kong doubts at thoughts na hindi ko dapat iniisip ngayon.

What if matagal na pala silang nagkakausap?
What if they we’re fooling me all this time?
Mahal pa ba ni Jed si Amanda?
Babalika niya kaya ‘to kung magkikita man sila ngayon?
Magagalit kaya si Jed kung sabihin kong binura ko yung record ng tawag ni Amanda?
Is this the end of my happiness?
“Leila?” I realize na tinatawag pala ako ni Jed. He was holding my hand at kita ko
sa mga mata niya ang pagaalala. “Why are you crying? Okay ka lang ba talaga?”
Hindi ko sinabi kay Jed na tumawag si Amanda. Natatakot kasi ako.
Hindi ko napansin na umiiyak na pala ako. Ngumiti ako sa kanya at pinunasan ko ang
luha ko. Tumango lang ako. I placed my other hand on top of Jed’s hand which was on
my other hand. Hinigpitan ko ang pagkakahawak rito.
“I love you Jed.”
He smiles at me. Tumayo siya sa kinauupuan niya and he kissed me on my forehead.

“I love you more...” our eyes have met. He was smiling at me. “Always remember that
okay?”
I smile as I nod. He kiss me on my lips.
Hindi ko kayang sabihin kay Jed... natatakot ako na baka magkatotoo yung mga
iniisip ko. Ayokong mangyari ‘yon. Hindi ko kayang mawala si Jed.
Ihinatid na ako ni Jed sa school. Hindi parin ako mapakali.
Paano kung tumawag si Amanda habang nasa trabaho si Jed? Ang dami kong ‘what if’s’
na hindi ko mapigilang hindi isipin.
Buong klase hindi lutang ako. Hindi nga ako makausap nang matino ni Char at Ches. I
can’t do anything kakaisip doon sa phone call.
*****
“Leila? Is there something wrong babe?” we’re eating dinner sa bahay.
Buong araw akong tulala. I can picture out my thoughts and it’s killing me so much.
But I don’t want to Jed gets worried at me... Ayokong malaman niyang tumawag pala
si Amanda sa kanya.
I tried my best to smile at him. Umiling-iling ako. “W-wala. M-may iniisip lang
ako. Pero hindi namna ‘yun importante.”
We continue eating.
Hanggang sa nag ring yung phone ni Jed...
Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. Sobrang kinakabahan ako kung sino yung tumatawag kay
Jed.
Kinuha niya yung phone mula sa bulsa niya. He look at his phone. Napakunot ang noo
niya.
“W-who’s that?” maang kong tanong. Kinakabahan talaga ako.
He shurgs. “I don’t know. Unregistered siya eh.” Parang nadurog ang puso ko. he
smile at me at akmang tatayo “Wait, I’ll just fetch this.” At tulyan na siyang
tumayo at dumiretsyo ng kusina para sagutin ang tawag.
Unti-unti nang bumagsak yung luha ko. I can’t keep it anymore.
Paano kung si Amanda ‘yon? Iiwan na ba ako ni Jed at babalikan niya si Amanda?
A few seconds when he went inside the kitchen area, bumalik na rin si Jed.
“It’s Mr Carlos. Napalit pala siya--” natigilan si Jed nang makita niya akong
umiiyak habang nakaupo sa harapan ng hapagkainan. “Hey, what’s wrong?” aalalang-
alala ang boses niya.
Nagmamadali siyang lumapit sa akin. Lumuhod si Jed sa harapan ko. He holds my

cheecks and kiss my forehead. I am still keep on crying.
“Shh... don’t cry babe. Tahan na...” he keeps on making me calm.
Halos Humagulgol na ako sa kaiiyak. Lahat kasi nang thoughts ko... ng takot ko...
inilabas ko sa pamamagitan nang pagiyak ko.
“Leila, stop crying already.” Kalmadong sabi ni Jed as he hugs me.
I hug him back... so tight that I don’t want him to let go.
I just keep on crying while he was comforting me by tapping gently my back.

-------------------------
“Here, uminom ka muna nang tubig.” Iniabot sa akin ni Jed ang isang baso nang
tubig.
I drink it. Nakaupo kami ngayon sa sala. Habang iniinom ko ang tubig na ibinigay
niya ay inakbayan naman niya ako.
He drags me closer to him. Yung kamay niyang nakapatong sa balikat ko ay Bumaba sa

aking bewang. Nang matapos kong inumin ang tubig ko, Kinuha niya iyon at ipinatong
sa side table. He kiss me on my forehead.
I am calm now after a few minutes of crying. I hug him again. I placed my head on
his chest while he was combing my hair gently.
“Now, tell me why are you crying.” He said worriedly.
I look at him. His eyes tells me that he was really worried about me.
“Do you still love Amanda?” I said directly looking into his eyes.
He smile at me. nakatingin siya sa mga mata ko. Hinawakan niya ang magkabila kong
pisngi.
“Leila?”
“Hmm?”
“Ano yung parati kong sabi sa’yo na parati mong tatandaan?”
“That you love me more than I love you?” patanong kong sabi.
Ayon parati kasi ang sinasabi ni Jed sa akin. He never fails to tell me how much he
loves me. now I realize how damn insecure I am because of that phone call.
He nods at my answer. “Amanda... she is my past. I don’t think I can never change
that fact that I love her...” huminga siya nang malalim. He was stilling cupping my
both cheeks. “Amanda’s my past... but you are my future. I know, sobra kitang
nasaktan noon but I am making ahuge effort now para iparamdam ko sayo kung gaano
kita kamahal. Always remember na ang past... hindi na yan nababalikan. Pero ikaw?
Kasama kita parati. Ikaw ang pangarap ko. You are my future. And if you still
having doubts about it, I’ll double my effort... I’ll make it triple... I’ll do
everything that I can just to show you how I am serious that I said love you the
moment I tell you that I love you.” then he kiss me on my forehead.
His words are warmth and makes me at ease. Ang sarap pakinggan... biglang gumaan
ang pakiramdam ko. Yung pakiramdam ko kanina na sobrang bigat... yung tipong yung
puso ko, parang sobrang sakit... ngayon, wala na... magaan sa pakiramdam.
“I have to tell you something Jed...” Napatungo ako. I buried my face on his chest.
“It’s about Amanda...”
Hindi siya nagsalita. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang naging facial reaction niya nang
banggitin ko ang pangalan ni Amanda but I am really sure that I want to tell him
what happened this morning.
“Tumawag siya kaninang umaga sa phone mo habang nags-shower ka. I answered her
call but I end it up. I deleted her number too.” I said. “Kaya kanina noong may
tumawag sa’yo at unknown number pa... kinabahan talaga ako...” niyakap ko pa siya
ng mahigpit. My tears automatically falls. “Natakot ako na baka kapag tinawagan ka
ni Amanda... balikan mo siya.” nahihiya na ako kay Jed dahil nabasa na nang luha ko
yung damit niya.
He sigh deeply then chuckles a bit. I look at him. He was smiling at me. He wipes
my tears and kiss me.
“You’re silly...” napakunot ang noo ko. “Ganito pala magselos ang misis ko.”
nangigigil na sabi ni Jed as he pinched my nose.
Am I jealous? Yes, I may be jealous but I am more scared... I am more scared to

loss him.
Kinapa niya ang bulsa niya at nakita kong Kinuha ni Jed yung phone niya. He shows
me his phone while smiling.
“Para hindi ka na mag worry...” then kumalas siya sa pagkakayakap sa akin at

kinalas rin niya ang phone niya. He turns it off and take of the case and so as the
battery. Tinanggal rin niya yung sim card sa loob.
“Bukas na bukas bibili ako nang bagong sim at itatapon ko na ‘tong luma.” He smiles
at me. napangiti ako sa sinabi niya. He kiss me again. “I love you...” he said and
kiss me on my lips.
Niyakap niya akong muli. I hug him back and more tighter.
“I’m sorry...” I said. “I should trust you than my thoughts. Pinangunahan ako ng
takot ko... akala ko kapag nasagot mo yung tawag ni Amanda... iiwan mo na ako at
babalik ka sa kanya.”
Tumingala ako para tingnan siya. He smiles as he looks at the ceiling. “You know
what...” then he turn his looks at me. “Nagpapasalamat pa nga ako noong umalis
siya...”
“Bakit naman?”
He smiles at me at Hinigpitan niya pa ang pagkakayakap sa akin. “Kasi doon ko na

realize kung gaano ko pala kamahal yung asawa ko.”
Ang sarap sa pikiramdam nung mga salitang binibitawan ni Jed. Lahat ‘yon tumatagos
sa puso ko. ang sarap sa pakiramdam.
“Ang tagal ko pa na realize yung feelings ko... it was hiding inside me and it
can’t let it go all through out dahil nahaharangan nang napakaraming bagay... but
now...” he looks at me. I can see seriousness within his eyes. “Nothing’s gonna
stop me from loving you... I’ll love you ‘till my last breath would take away.
Ganon kita kamahal.”
“I’ll love you Jed more and more... as each days passed by. Wala na akong pakielam
kung tuluyan man akong lumubog sa pagmamahal ko sa’yo at di na ako makaahon pa
kailan man... I am happy to love you and only you.”
He kisses me on my forehead. I close my eyes as he kisses me. Dinama ko ang halik

na ‘yon mula sa noo ko. And after that kiss, he smiles at me and hug me.
“I’m sorry...” I said.
This time, I am ready to face my fears. I am old enough to face this... kailangan
kong maging matapang kung gusto kong manatili ang relationship namin ni Jed. I
should let go of my doubts and let in trust.
“I-I should have never doubted...” I added and held his hand.
He smiles at me and kiss my hand which was holding his.
“Hindi naman mawawala ang doubts sa isang relationship eh...” he hug me. “What more
important is trust. As long as we trust each other nothing can ever come between
us...” he kisses me on my forehead. “I love you Leila... I love you so much.”
Hinigpitan ko ang pagkakayakap ko sa kanya.
Simula ngayon, hindi ko na paiiralin ang takot ko. I’ll overcome my fears and face
every obstacle together with Jed. Dahil ayon naman ang dapat because we are
partners in life and death. Dahil ako lang ang nagiisang asawa niya... wala nang
iba pa.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
Love is weakest when there is more doubt than trust...
But love is strongest when we learn to trust inspite the doubts.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Anne's Note: Hiiiii guyyyyssss! :DD
Uhm, THANK YOU PO SA LAHAT NANG PATULOY NA NAGBABASA NITO! SA MGA WALANG SAWANG NAG
V-VOTE AT COMMENT! SA MGA NAG ADD SA RL NILA~! >_____< (caps lock para intense)
hahahaha!
Sorry talaga kung napaka oh-so-slow ko mag update! >/\< huhuhuhu! patawarin niyo po
ako! >/\<
pero anyways, thank you po talaga! <3 <3 <3
Next chapter... hindi ko po alam kung kailan ko map-post. I am still typing it. And
besides, start na po nang summer class sa monday! TT^TT so baka maging busy na po
ulit ako sa school kaya mabagal ulit ang updates. But I'm planning to finish this
story this summer to pave way sa isa ko pang story. I won't gonna start it until
this one has not yet finished. Kaya sana matapos ko 'to! >____< *crossfingies*
Kung tatanongin niyo po ako kung ilang chapters na lang, di ko po masasabi. HAHA! I
am unpredictable person. Kaya sa mga magtatanon po ng UD agad. Sorry! Di ko
pasasagot ang tanong na 'yon. I post the ud as soon as I finish it. Ayoko nang
nangangako tapos di ko naman pala matutupad. It'll just makes me even take it in a
rush. ayoko ng ganun! >_____<
Enjoy your summer days! Have fun!
God bless~!
Love lots,
ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 15
Chapter 15:
Sabi nga nila, kapag nagmamahalan daw ang dalawang tao... nothing can between the
two. Kahit harangan mo man yan nang sibat o kahit paghiwalayin man nang lupa... sa
huli sila parin ang magkakatuluyan.
Ang bilis lumipas ng panahon. Parang kailan lang yung mga nangyari noon. Kung
minsan ay napapangiti na lang ako kapag naaalala ko ang kahapon.
Parang kailan lang noong ikasal kami ni Jed noong mga bata pa kami. Ngayon, malapit
na ang ika-15th anniversary namin. Natutuwa akong isipin na tumagal kami ng ganito.
Kahit na maraming pagsubok ang dumaan sa amin... wala paring kapantay ang
kaligayahang nararamdaman ko ngayon.
Isang linggo na lang at graduation rites na. Isang buwan na lang at anniversary na
namin. Ang saya-saya ko kapag naiisip kong papalapit na nang papalapit ang araw na
‘yon.
“Sis! Ang tagal mo namang pumili nang gift kay fafa Jed!” reklamo sa akin ni
Chester.
Natawa na lang ako sa itsura niya. Halatang bored na bored na nga ang kaibigan ko.
Kanina pa kasi kami paikot-ikot dito sa loob ng department store pero hanggang
ngayon wala parin akong mapili para kay Jed... anniversary gift ko para sa kanya.
“Magtigil ka nga jan Ches! Palibhasa gusto mong pumunta doon sa men’s wear! For
short... sa MEN’S UNDERWEAR!” ani Charlotte.
Natawa kaming dalawa ni Charlotte. Habang si Chester naman ay inirapan kami at

nagpatuloy sa pagpa-paypay.
Bigla naman akong hinawakan ni Charlotte sa magkabila kong balikat at itinapat ang
mukha niya sa kaliwang tainga ko.
“Pero Chan, what if regaluhan mo na lang si Jed ng under wear?” she giggles as she
whispers those words to me.
Nanginig ang buo kong katawan. I am still not into that kind of topics. Kahit na 21
yrs old na ako ay hindi parin kaya nang isipan kong isipin ang mga ganoong bagay.
Nagmu-mukha tuloy akong inosente sa mga ganoong bagay.
“Shut up Char! W-why w-would I-I gave him those? M-meron naman siya ah...” I said
softly but my voice was in shiver.
“Naku! Ang sensitive mo naman sa mga ganong bagay!” sabi ni Charlotte as she lean
down to looks those watches nanaka display. “Hello!? Almost 15 years na kayong
magkasama Chan. Besides, right age na naman kayo diba? Hindi naman kayo mahihirapan
kung makabuo man kayo at--” I immediately covered her mouth.
Sobrang nahihiya ako sa mga sinasabi ni Charlotte ngayon. Agad naman niyang tinabig
ang kamay ko.
“Hoy, Leila Chan-Sy. Hanggang ngayon ang sensitive mo sa mga ganoong bagay! Wake up
friend! Darating din kayo sa time na gagawin niyo ‘yon noh!” now she whispers it.
“I know. I know... I’m just not...” hindi na ako makapagsalita pa. “I’m just not
ready for it.”
She sighs. Looks like I disappointed her. Agad akong napalingon sa paligid.
Napansin kong nawawala si Chester.
“Char? Asan si Chester?” I said as I look around.
“Ha? Ewan ko. Kanina kasunod lang natin yung baklang ‘yon ah!”
We look around the mall pero hindi namin makita si Chester. Nagaalala kami na baka
kung saan na nagpunta ‘yun at nanghatak nanaman ng mga inosenteng lalaki.
Ganoon kasi si Chester kapag lumalabas kaming tatlo. Madalas ay bigla na lang
siyang nawawala. Malalaman na lang namin ay nakakawit na pala ang mga kamay niya sa
braso nang isang lalaki. Napapabuntong hininga na lang kami kapag nakikita namin
yung mga lalaki na nanghihina na ang tuhod at gustong makawala kay Chester.
Ilang saglit pa ay nadinig na namin ang boses niya.
“MGA SIS!” we know his voice very well.
Agad namin siyang nilingon. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa hawak ni Chester na
iwinawasiwas niya pa na para bang flag—isang brief.
Patakbo itong lumapit sa amin. “Chan! Eto oh! Ito na lang ang iregalo mo kay fafa
Jed! Eh mhe ghed! Sabihin mo sa akin kung kasya ha? Kung malaki ba--”
Hindi na namin pinatapos pa si Chester sa pagsasalita at agad naming tinakpan ang

kanyang bibig. Nakakahiya kasi... mas nakakahiya ang mga sinasabi niya kaysa sa
pinsan niyang si Charlotte.
I sigh with depression on my face. “Char, parehong-pareho talaga kayo nang pinasan
mo.”
*****
Umuwi ako ng bahay na walang nabili.

Nadatnan ko ang bahay namin na nakapatay ang ilaw. Wala pa ba sa bahay si Jed? I
open the gate nang biglang mag vibrate ang phone ko. It was a text message from
Jed.
I’m sorry. I won’t go home for tonight. I’m kindda busy with this new project. I’ll
be home early in the morning. Good night, I love you.
Napabutong hininga na lang ulit ako. I thought ipagluluto niya ako nang chicken
curry tonight so I was expecting him to come home early pero mali ako.
I take a shower at agad na humiga sa kama. I didn’t bother to eat dinner. Nawalan
na kasi ako ng gana dahil wala si Jed.
Niyakap ko yung unan ko. I hug it more tighter. I already miss Jed.
Nasanay na kasi akong katabi si Jed sa pagtulog and this is the first time na hindi
siya makakauwi nang bahay for business purpose. I understand it, but my heart tells
me that I am longing for him.
“Please come home Jed.” I whisper as I buried my face on my pillow.
*****
My eyes flutters with the sunlight coming from my window. Hinigpitan ko pa ang
pagkakayakap ko sa unan ko. Naramdaman kong may yumakap sa akin.
Am I dreaming? Did my pillow just hug me?
Dahan-dahan kong binuksan ang mga mata ko. I can see Jed beneath the sunlight
smiling at me.
I smile. “Am I dreaming?”

He chuckles. “No you’re not.” And he kiss me on my forehade. “Good morning babe.”
And planted a sweet peck on my lips.
I smile as I bit my lower lip. “Now I know I’m not dreaming.”
Bumangon siya sa pagkakahiga. May kinuha siya sa side table. It was a wooden tray
na may lamang pagkain at isang red rose sa gilid. I smile as he put it on my lap.
“Breakfast in bed.”
The color of the food is perfect. Mukhang marunong nang mag luto ang asawa ko. it
felt like my heart smiles.
“Did you made all this?” tanong ko sa kanya as I look at him.
Umayos ako nang upo at tumabi siya sa gilid ko. He places his one arm on the border
of my bed. Para na rin niya akong inakbayan.
“Yes. Just for you.” he said proudly.
“Thank you. I love you.” I said ans kiss him on his cheeks.
“Tikman mo, hindi na siya sunog.” I laugh.
Tinikman ko yung luto ni Jed. I can say na masarap talaga siya. Hindi na ito yung
kagaya noon na lasang sunog at hindi mo na makain. It taste so perfect. Everything
is perfect.
I look at him. He’s waiting for my critic with his dish. I smile. “Masarap!” masaya
kong tugon sa kanya.
Kitang-kita sa mukha niya na masaya siya dahil sinabi kong masarap ang luto niya.
He’s been practicing how to cook whenever he got free time. Now, he can cook. And I
am so proud of him.
Ang bilis lumipas ng panahon. Palapit na ng palapit ang araw ng graduation ko. Jed
and I have been busy the past days had passed by. Pero hindi parin nawawala sa isip
ko ang isa sa pinaka espesyal na araw—ang ika-15 anniversary namin ni Jed.
Masaya ang naging 14th anniversary namin. Even though it was just one in a 15 years
being together, 14th was special for me. Because it was the first time we have
celebrated it together with love. I just can’t believe right now... nakatagal kami
nang ganoong katagal. Kahit na sabihin pa nating ang bata pa namin nang ikasal
kami. But the first time I saw him during that wedding day... alam ko na sa sarili
kong mahal ko siya at siya lang ang makakasama ko hanggang sa pagtanda. That is how
I love Jed.
I may become stupid and blind for the past years of our life being married but
everything had faded when I finally felt Jed’s love for me. It was the best thing I
have ever work hard for and I happy na naging maganda ang resulta. Kahit na halos
patayin ako ng mga nararamdaman kong sobrang sakit. But my love is stronger than my
pains... it makes my wounded heart healed. Yung tipong kahit anong sakit ang ginawa
sa akin noon ni Jed, I easily fogets it dahil mas malaki ang pagmamahal ko sa
kanya. Hindi ko kayang magalit sa kanya.
*****
ARAW ng graduation namin. I am expecting Jed and his family will come for me... I
am also expecting my own family will come. I want them to show how I am successful.
How should they be proud of me.
Kaya nga ang saya ko ngayon because I am expecting them to come. Last week, I
called at my family to inform them my graduation day. Sobrang kaba ko noon nang ang
ate kong si Mei ang nakasagot ng tawag ko. Hindi ko maitago ang saya kong nang
sabihin niyang pupunta sila ni Lola. It filled my heart.
“Are you ready?” Jed suddenly went inside my room.
I smile at him as I look back, he was wearing a dark blue long sleeve with his
black pants and a black shoes. It was just his normal look whenever he went for
work but it still look dashing for me. Jed even fixed his hair. Nakataas ito and I
found him really handsome.
Lumapit siya sa akin. He wrap his arms around my neck. I was sitting in front of my
jewelry table.
“Congratulations babe.” He said as he kiss me on my cheek.

Napangiti ako nang makita ko ang reflection namin sa salamin. We relly look like a
happy couple.
“I have a gift for you...” he whispers to my ears. It tickles me a bit.
Kumalas siya mula sa pagkaka-wrap ng mga braso niya sa leek ko. He put his one hand
on his pocket. Inilabas niya ang isang maliit na box. I look at it puzzled. He
smiles at me as our eyes have met.
Napangiti ako nang buksan ni Jed yung box.
It was a silver necklace. It has a heart shape pendant on it having a diamonds

around.
He put it on my neck. I look at myself on the mirror as he puts it. Nang maikabit
na niya ito ay tumingin siya sa reflection namin sa salamin. He smiles as he looks
at me.
I face him as I smile. “Thank you” sabi ko as habang hawak yung pendant.
He cupped my face and kiss my forehead. “Congratulations Leila. I’m so happy for
you.” niyakap niya ako nang napaka higpit.
Bumaba na kami ni Jed. Ang mama ni Jed at ang kapatid niya ay sinalubong kami sa
baba.
“Ate Chan! Congrats!” bati sa akin ni Fei as she hugs me.
“Thank you.”
“Let’s go. Baka ma late pa tayo!” excited na sabi ni mama.
We arrived at the PICC exactly for the assembly. I wear my gown and toga. Agad
akong sinalubong ni Char at Ches.
“Chhhaaaaannnn!” exaggerated na sigaw ni Chester as he rans toward me.
At first I am expecting him to hug me but nilagpasan niya ako at dumiretsyo kay
Jed. Akmang yayakapin na niya ang asawa ko nang hatakin ni Char si Ches backwards.
“Ano ka ba Chester! Mahiya ka nga! Nagkakalat ka nanaman ng lagim dito!” sita ni

Charlotte.
We all laugh hard. Napa pout na lang si Chester habang si Jed ay Napailing na lang
sabay kamot ng ulo. Hindi talaga naiiwasang manamantala ni Chester sa asawa ko
kapag nagkaroon siya ng pagkakataon.
“Hello po tita! Hello Fei!” bati ng magpinsan kay mama at Fei.
“Congratulations sa inyo!” bati ni mama sa dalawa.
“Thank you po!” they both uttered.
We gathered around and chat as we wait for the assembly.
“Leila?” an unfamiliar voice call my name. Napalingon ako kung saan ko nadinig yung
boses.
Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang makita ko kung sino. It was my older sister, Mei.
“Ate? Ate Mei?” pilit kong hindi umiyak. Akala ko hindi na sila makakapunta.
I walk towards her and hug her so tight. She still looks the same even if decades
had pass since I saw her.
“You’ve grown up so pretty! I’ve missed you!” she said as she cupped my face.
Hindi ko na mapigilang hindi maiyak. It’s tears of joy seeing my sister here in one
of my biggest moments in life. I hug her once again.
“I thought you’re not coming!” we face each other. She comb my hair as she smiles
staring at me. “I’m so proud of you!” it made my heart so fluttered.
“I want you to meet someone.” She added as she puts her hands on my shoulder. She
drags me towards her back and I see an old lady sitting on a wheel chair.
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. My sister kneeled down to be at the level of the
old lady.
Hindi ko naintindihan ang sinabi niya doon sa old lady but I am still very nervous.
After she finishes her talks, she looks at me smiling.
“Leila, this is our grandmother. This is Nai Nai.” Nakaramdam ako ng saya nang
sabihin ni ate na ang kaharap ko ngayon ay ang lola ko. Ang lola namin.
Hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko. Yayakapin ko ba siya? Anong sasabihin ko?
Her looks was very sophisticated. I can’t see any expression on her face. Dahil
doon ay nakakaramdam parin ako ng kaba. Baka hindi niya ako magustuhan.
Lumapit si ate kay lola at may ibinulong ito rito. I am so nervous as they talk
into whispers. Nang matapos silang mag usap ay lumapit si ate sa akin.
She smiles as she holds both of my hand. “Sabi ni Baba congratulations daw. She
said she can’t be here all through the ceremony but she’ll wait to meet you and Jed
tomorrow at our hotel.” She hug me. “I’ll just take grandma to the car and I’ll be
back here okay?” I nod at her.
I wave my hand as I watch them walks palabas ng hall. Jed suddenly came by my side
and wrap his arms around my waist. He kiss me on my left cheeks.
“I’m happy for you.” he whispers to my ears.
I face him and wrap my arms around his neck. I gave him a smack.
“Thank you babe. Thank you for being here by my side.” I was about to give him
another peck when suddenly Ches and Char interrupts us.
“Hoy Leila! You’re so harot-harot! You and fafa Jed are so PDA na hereeeee!”
malanding sabi ni Chester.
“Mag-start na yung ceremony.” Sabi naman ni Charlotte.
I look at Jed while smiling. “I have to go now. Can you accompany my sister?”
“Of course I will.” He planted a kiss on my forehead. “I love you.”

“I love you more.”
We marched at our seat and the ceremony had started. I am so happy that everything
went right. I am so happy dahil kasama ko si ate Mei na umakyat sa stage. Masaya
ako kahit hindi man ako ang summa I become one of the cum laude. Atleast, I prove
to my family that I deserve their attention and love. Masayang masaya ako dahil
nakatapos na ako. As much as I wanted to be a devoted wife for Jed, I know he won’t
let me. Ang gusto niya kasi ay i-pursue ko ang gusto ko. He wants me to be
successful fulfilling my dreams.
*****
We had our small celebration at our house. Me, Jed, Mama, Fei and my older sister
Mei. There’s a wine, a cake, and two varieties of meal. Kahit na simple lang ang
handaan na ito, it was special for me dahil kasama ko ang mga taong mahal ko sa
buhay.
“So? I guess I have to say good bye for tonight?” paalam ni ate Mei as Jed and I
accompanied her sa labas ng gate. Nandoon na ang driver niya. She hug me. “I’ll see
you and Jed tomorrow at the hotel okay?” sabi ni ate habang nakayakap sa akin at
hinahagod ang likod ko.
I just nod. “I love you Chan.”
At tuluyan nang umalis ang ate ko. Nakaramdam ako ng tuwa nang sabihin sa akin ng
ate ko na mahal niya ako. Binuhay kasi ako nang mga doubts ko na kinalimutan na ako
ng mga kapatid ko. Tuluyan na akong kinalimutan ng sarili kong pamilya.
Ate Mei is my older sister. I was only five years old back then noong huli ko
siyang nakita but I won’t forget every memories I had with her. Siya kasi ang
pinaka close kong kapatid. I love her so much. Siya yung naging mom ko noong
nakatira pa sila ng iba ko pang kapatid dito sa Pilipinas kasama si Papa.
Sobrang lungkot ko noon nang iniwan nila akong mag-isa dito sa Pilipinas. Wala
akong balita sa kanila. Hindi man lang nila ako kinakamusta. Hindi ko man lang sila
makausap sa phone.
Now, I am hoping for a good relationship with my grandma. Sana mas maging maganda
ang samahan namin ng pamilya ko. I heard a lot of news from my older sister about
my other siblings. Lahat pala sila stable na. They have their lives. They have
their own families.
Kilala pa kayo ako ng iba ko pang mga kapatid? Hanggang ngayon kaya... malas parin
ang tingin nila sa akin?
“Babe? Mukhang malalim yata ang iniisip mo?” Jed suddenly utters.
Nakahiga na kami ngayon sa kama. My head was place on his chest while his one hand
was busy playing and combing my hair.
Napatingin ako sa kanya. So he notice that I have been loaded of thoughts. He was
waiting for me to answer. I know he was bothered about my thoughts inside my mind.
I can see it in his eyes. He was worried.
“Naisip ko lang...” again, I place my head on his chest. “Hanggang ngayon kaya ako
parin ang Sinisisi nila sa pagkamatay ng papa ko?”
My dad was the only son of my grand mother. They followed the one child policy. But
I don’t know if kagaya lang rin ba kami ng ibang pamilya. Yung mga may patagong
anak? Kumbaga, anak sa labas. Bastardong anak.
I don’t see myself as a bastard. My mom and dad had met before three years after
dad’s former wife’s death. Kaya hindi isang mistress ang mom ko. Ang kuwento sa
akin nang dati kong yaya when I was a teen ager, they have met in an unexpected
situation. Nagkakilala daw sila sa isang coffee shop. College student pa lang daw
noon si mama habang si papa naman ay isang business man. Sabi noon ni manang nagka
palit daw si mama at papa ng phone noong nagkabanggaan sila sa coffee shop. Then,
my mom found out na yung company na kung saan siya nag OJT ay pagma-mayari pala ni
papa. They become close, started as friends, napunta sa dating, hanggang sa naging
magkasintahan sila for almost two years at nagdesisyong magpakasal.
Noong bata pa lang ako at nabubuhay pa si manang, parati ko sa kanyang ipinaku-

kuwento ang love strory ng parents ko. It was for me... full of romance. Doon ako
kumukuha ng lakas ng loob para patuloy na mahalin si Jed sa kabila ng lahat ng
sakit na nararamdaman ko.
Hindi naman siguro ako ipapakasal ng pamilya ko sa kanya kung hindi rin naman ako
magiging masaya. Kahit na alam ko namang dahil lang sa kayamanan ng pamilya kung
bakit nila ako ipinagkasundo. I still have this thoughts.
I cam back into reality. Jed was still talking. Commenting about his thoughts.
“Trust me babe. Wala kang kasalanan. Kaya wag mong iisiping bad luck ka or
kasalanan mo lahat ng masamang nangyari sa family niyo...” napaangat ang ulo ko and
I look at him directly into his eyes. He grins.
“You are my lucky charm.”
I smile. Nothing makes me happy. His comforting words are enough to let go all of
my doubts. We made our vows... na mas pagtitibayin namin ang trust than our doubts.
He kiss me on my forehead.
“I love you... my one and only lucky charm.”
*****
“Kinakabahan ako...” I said as I pull of the edge of his shirt.
He smile at me as he faces me and put his hands on my shoulder. The smile that
gives me courage. Medyo nawala tuloy ang kaba ko.
Nasa lobby kami ngayon ng hotel na tinutuluyan ni Ate Mei at Grandma. Hinhintay
namin si Ate ngayon dito sa lobby.
“Wag kang kabahan. Kasama mo ako diba? I’ll be your lucky charm.” Then he winks at
me.
I half smile. Umupo muna kami sa may sofa as we wait for my older sister.
Hindi parin mawala ang kaba ko. Para bang magt-take ako ng major exam ngayon at
malaki ang chance na bumagsak ako. Ganoon ang pakiramdam ko. Sobrang kabado ako na
para bang Biglaan akong tinawag ng professor ko para sa isang oral recitation.
I suddenly feel Jed’s hand touches mine. I look at him. He was smiling at me.
“Don’t worry. Di kita iiwan.” His words makes my system relief. Nakakagaan ng
pakiramdam.
A few seconds later. Dumating na si ate.
“Let’s go? Nai Nai is waiting for you guys.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Anne's Note: WAAAAAAAAAAHHHH! Nakaabot akoooo! >////< nakaabot ako bago matapos ang
Unlisurf ng broadband ko! xDD
Sorry! Ang tagal ng update! Super busy sa school. Everyday may quiz kami sa
accounting. I update today kasi di ako makakapag update this weekend. Next week may
quiz ulit ako. Sorry guys! Babawi ako kapag natapos na ang summer class! >/\<
THANK YOU PO SA MGA COMMENTS! SA MGA VOTES! SA MGA NAG ADD SA RL NILA! SA MGA NAG
FOLLOW PO SA AKIN! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! LOVE YOU ALL!Sorry medyo Lame
ngayon. pagpasensyahan niyo na poooooo! >/\<
Dedicated nga po pala 'to sa kanya! Hi!!!! *kway kaway!* Thank you sa comment
mo! :D What caught me to dedic this chapter to you is your name. Otaku_gurl. I miss
watching anime and reading mangas! >////<
sana magustuhan mo.
God bless!
LOVE YOU GUYS!~ChecheAnne :">
------------------------------------
RE-POST: Sa mga nakabasa po nito, may binago lang akong word. Yung "baba". Just
wanna correct it, it's "Nai Nai" po pala. Sorry! Wala akong gaanong alam kasi sa
Mandarin! >/\<
=================
Chapter 16
Chapter 16:
“Nai Nai...” my older sister Mei speaks as we step forward in front of grandma.
She still had the same expression since I saw her last night. It made me even more
nervous. Hindi ko alam kung bakit ako natatakot na kaharapin ngayon ang lola ko.
She was the elder of our family at lagi siyang may say sa bawat gagawin ng bawat
isa. That’s what Ate Mei said. Simula nang nawala ang papa ko, siya na ang tumayong
magulang sa mga kapatid ko.
Kahit kailan di ko pa nakita ang lola ko. And this is the first time I saw her in
person.
Lumapit pa ng husto pa si Ate Mei kay lola. May sinabi ito kay ate but I can’t hear
it. Lalo akong nakaramdam nang kaba.
Biglang hinawakan ni Jed ang kamay ko. I look at him. Nawala sa isip kong kasama ko
nga pala ngayon ang asawa ko. He was smiling at me. Cheering me up. I smile back.
“Leila? Jed?” My older sister Mei calls out. “Come here...” she gestures us to move
forward. “Sit down...” She commanded to us.
Umupo kami ni Jed. We we’re in front of the coach where my grandmother’s sitting
at. Jed interklocks his hands on mine. Napakahigpit nang pagkakahawak niya sa kamay
ko. It feels like he was giving me courage. Telling me not to get nervous and freak
out. I feel safe as long as he is with me.
Lumabas si Ate Mei. Only the three of us left inside this room. Hindi ko mapigilang
hindi kabahan.
“It’s nice to see you again Mrs. Anita Chan.” Jed suddenly uttered.
Kinuha ng lola ko yung tea cup na nasa center table na pumapagitna sa amin. I watch
every move she makes. Suddenly, Jed tighter his grip on me. Napatingin ako sa
kanya, he was smiling at me. I smile back.
“Does the company doing well?” she finally talks. After drinking her tea she speaks
with Jed.
Umayos ng upo si Jed. He clears his throat. “There are small problems but
everything’s fine.”
“Good then.” Walang bakas sa mukha niya ang pagkatuwa o pagkalungkot. Then she
turns her looks on me. It makes me nervous. “Leila, you did well. I congratulate
you for being a latin honor. What do you plan after graduation? You should be
entering the company and help your husband.”
I was about to speak when Jed suddenly utters.
“Actually, I want her to study culinary.” Jed bravely speaks. Napakunot naman nang
noo ang lola ko. Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. “I want her to do what she really
wants.” Jed turns his looks at me. “What she’s been dreaming of.”
I smile as he speaks.
“Cooking? You can’t be rich by cooking! You should enter the company and help your
husband make it bigger!” Halata sa tono ng lola ko ang galit. Natakot ako bigla.
Lalong bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. “That’s ridiculous!”
Agad akong napatungo. I can’t say a word. Hindi ko man lang maipagtanggol ang
sarili ko. Hindi ko man lang mailabas kung ano talaga ang nasa loob ko. I want to
express right now how much I am longing for her... how much I am badly needing my
family.
“We’ll be putting up a restaurant.” Those prhases Jed said, it caught my

grandmothers attention. “I wanted her to study culinary for in the near futre we’ll
be having our own restaurant.” Jed puts his other hand around my shoulder. “And I
want her to manage it.”
Kinuha muli ni lola ang tea cup niya. She was looking at us as she take a sip.
“When will you two plan to bear a child?” nabigla ako sa tanong ng lola. Sa
pagkabigla ko ay nasamid ako. She looks at me curiously. “Are you ok?” she asks.
I nod as I take my tea. I drink it habang hinahagod ni Jed ang likod ko. “Yes. I’m
fine.”
“You guys are in good terms right? You have a healthy marriage relationship right?”
I think she’s making sure about our marriage.
“I want the two of you to have a baby before I passed.” Inilapag ni lola yung tea
cup sa table. “I’m old. I want to see mygrand children playing. I want you to have
a boy to become the successor of the company.”
*****
Nakahinga ako ng maluwag nang matapos na ang paguusap nami ni Jed at ng lola ko. Sa
buong paguusap namin, wala akong gaanong nasabi. But I am glad that Jed was with
me. Kung wala siya siguro sa tabi ko... baka nataranta na ako at di ko na alam ang
gagawin ko.
Jed hugs me from my back as we went outside the room.
“Gumawa na daw tayo ng baby...” Jed whispers it to my ears roughly.
It brings chills to my spine. I push him. “A-ano b-ba yang pinagsasabi mo Jed!”
nauutal kong sabi.
I was facing him. He chuckles. “Ang cute talaga ng misis ko!” he said as he was
busy messing up my hair.
I pout. He smiles at me. “Let’s celebrate!” he looks so happy.
I look at him with curiousness on my face. “Saan mo gustong kumain?” he asks as we

were walking towards the elevator. “Ah, alam ko na...” he looks at me. We went
inside the elevator. “Let’s eat in a Chinese restaurant malapit dito. Buong week
kasi puro French cuisine ang kinakain ko kapag ka dinner ko yung mga French
investors.” He looks so jolly. I wonder why? Dahil ba yun sa hiling ng lola?
Does he... also wants a child already too? Bigla akong kinabahan sa iniisip ko.
Hindi ko man lang namalayan na nasa tapat na pala kami ng restaurant na sinasabi ni
Jed.
We went inside at siya na ang nag take ng order. Nabaling naman yung attention ko
sa katabing table namin. Sa table na ‘yun ay isang buong pamilya. Masaya sila
habang kumakain ng lunch. I can’t help but smile as I look at them. I can imagine
building my own family with Jed.
I turn back my looks at Jed when he helds my hand. He was smiling at me.
“Ang sayang tingnan ng family nila right?” he said.
Napatungo naman ako nang sabhini yon ni Jed. I got scared. Mahal na mahal ko ang
asawa ko pero I still have these doubts about doing it... you know what I mean.
Natatakot ako... I’m still not ready.
“Hey...” he sounds so worried. I lift my head and face him. “Don’t pressure
yourself. We have a lot of time okay? We can still enjoy just the two of us okay?”
he’s always making me feel at ease. Making me assure that I have to believe in
myself and let go of my doubts and fears.
We eat lunch. Nang matapos kaming kumain ni Jed he pays the food we eat. Napadaan
kami sa main door ng restaurant and they were offering fortune cookies.
These fortune cookies were not just ordinary cookies. Sa loob ng cookies na ‘to ay
may mga predictions or sayings. Nagkakatotoo daw yung mga nasa loob ng fortune
cookies. I’d never eaten a single one kaya hindi ko alam kung totoo ba ‘yon.
Napansin yata ni Jed na naka tingin ako sa fortune cookies. “You want some?”
At biglang nag offer naman yung lady ng cookies na nakalagay sa basket. Kumuha ako
ng isa and I eat it. sa loob na ng kotse ko natapos kainin yung cookies and it
reveals my fortune paper—that’s how I call it.
Kinakabahan ako sa kung ano man ang laman nito. Dahan-dahan kong binuklat yung
papel.
You have a good life! You have the happiness in you. But take care of that
happiness. Big phenomena will come in you.
Hindi ko gaanong maintindihan kung ano yung pinapahiwatig nung nakasulat pero bigla
akong kinabahan sa nabasa ko.
“Anong sabi ng fortune cookie mo?” Jed utters as he opens the door.
Agad kong nilokos ang maliit na papel at ngumiti sa kanya. “Wala naman...” he looks
at me curiously. I smile and put both my hands on his face. “Sabi sa fortune cookie
ko na ma-suwerte daw ako dahil ikaw ang asawa ko.”
We both laugh. He pinches my nose as I lay off my hands on his face. “Mas suwerte
ako dahil ang misis ko ang pinaka magandang lucky charm ko!” I giggle.
“I love you Jed.” I said with my endearing voice.
He kisses me on my forehead. “I love you even more Leila.”
We drive back home.
*****
Ngayong mga nakaraang araw, medyo nakakapanibago kasi madalas akong mag isa sa
bahay. School days are over, I guess for now. Medyo mainit na rin ang panahon dahil
summer na. Kung minsan bumibisita si Char at Ches dito sa bahay and we hang out
together. Minsan naman si Mama or si Fei ang dumadalaw sa bahay. Gabi na kasi umuwi
si Jed ng bahay dahil sa work. I wanted to help him with company but he insisted.
Sabi niya mas mabuti pang mag stay na lang daw ako sa bahay kasi ayaw niya akong
napapagod. As if I am doing lots of things in there.
Kung minsan naman, kapag sobra ko na siyang nam-miss I’ll call him and tell that
I’ll bring him lunch at sabay na kaming kakain sa office.
There is this one guy I do also miss... it was Patrick.

A day before my graduation sinabi niya sa akin na pupunta siyang Singapore para sa
business matters nila at matatagalan daw siya doon. Hindi ko alam kung ilang araw o
buwan o taon siyang mag s-stay doon but I am missing my best friend. He was my
companion in good times and bad times. Lagi siyang nasa tabi ko no matter what. He
gives me strength noong mga panahong malungkot ako at nagdurusa.
Bihara lang kaming magkausap ni Patrick dahil busy din siya. Bagong tayo lang kasi
yung hotel nila doon sa Singapore and his dad wants him to manage it. That’s why
his attention was focus on it.
“Good morning po ma’am Leila!” bati sa akin ng isa sa mga empliyado ng company.
I smile as my greetings. Nasa lobby ako ngayon ng building papunta sa office ni

Jed. I brought him some food to eat. He’s been very busy this past few days kasi
may bago siyang hawak na account and he have to closed the deal. Medyo
nagaalinlangan pa daw yung account holder kung magi-invest ba ito sa company.
Malapit na ako sa may desk ng secretary ni Jed. Mukhang napansin naman ako agad ni
Tanya—Jed’s secretary kaya tumayo agad siya at ngumiti sa akin.
“Good morning po ma’am Leila.” bati nito sa akin. I smile at her.
“Si Jed? Nanjan ba siya sa loob?”
“Ay may meeting pa po si Sir eh. Pero pinapasabi niya po na hintayin niyo na lang
daw po siya sa loob.”
“Ah ganun ba. Okay I’ll wait for him inside na lang.”
Pumasok na ako sa loob ng office ni Jed. It was just like his room. Malinis. I can
smell Jed’s scent dito sa loob. I missed him already. Inilagay ko sa may table yung
dala kong food. Umupo ako sa swivel chair niya. I giggle nang makita ko yung
picture frame na naka display sa table niya.
It was our picture nung nag punta kami noon sa Theme Park. The frame, it was that
same picture frame we bought at the souvinier shop. I smile genuinely as I held the
picture frame. Itinago niya pala ‘to. and he even place it here at his working
table.
I was sitting comfortably at Jed’s chair nang biglang mag ring yung phone ko.
It was Charlotte who was calling. I answer it.
“Hello? Char? Bakit ka napatawag?” I ask.
[Huy! Chan! Nanonood ka ba ngayon ng balita?]
“H-hindi, bakit?”
[Asan kaba? Nasa bahay ka ba? Buksan mo yung TV niyo dali!]
“Wala ako sa bahay, nasa office ako ni Jed. Pero may TV dito. Ano ba yun at
tarantang-taranta ka jan?”
[Basta! Buksan mo na lang yung TV! Panuorin mo yung balita dali!]
Nataranta ako sa sinabi ni Char. I do what she told me. I turn on the TV.
Bigla akong natigilan sa bumungad sa akin sa TV.
Malinaw na malinaw ang nakalagay sa TV screen.
AMANDA LU, BUMALIK NA GALING PARIS!
Telecaster: live po tayo ngayon dito sa airport kung saan pababa ang sinasakyang
eroplano ni Miss Amanda Lu! Marami ang kumakalat na balita na kaya siya nawala ng
higit isang taon ay dahil nabuntis daw ito ng kanyang di kilalang boyfriend. Sikat
si Amanda dahil sa angking kagandahan at galing sa pagne-negosyo kaya isang
malaking katanungan sa lahat kung bakit siya nawala ng matagal? Marami ang
nagsasabi na nabuntis daw ito at doon nagtago sa Paris dahil hindi ito pinanagutan
ng kanyang boyfriend. Pero ang sabi naman ng pamilya ni Miss Amanda ay nanatili daw
doon ang kanilang anak upang mag aral ng fashion designing at ma-improve ang skills
niya.
Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. Bigla akong nakaramdam ng takot. Kitang kita sa TV
screen na maraming reporters ang naghihintay sa pag dating niya.
Telecaster: at nandito na po ang kanyang business partner at itinuturing na best

friend na si Shane.
Hinabol ng reporter si Shane na kabababa lang ng sasakyan. Humarang naman ang mga
guards na pumapaligid kay Shane.
Telecaster1: Shane, totoo ba ang kumakalat na balitang nabuntis si Amanda kaya siya
umalis ng Pilipinas?
Telecaster2: ano ang masasabi mong bumalik na ngayon ang business partner mong si
Amanda?
Napakarami nilang tanong kay Shane pero ni isa ay walang sinagot si Shane.
Dumiretsyo lang siya papasok ng airport.
Nawala sa isip kong nasa kabilang linya pa nga pala si Charlotte.
[hello friend? Okay ka lang ba? Gusto mo bang puntahan kita ngayon?]
Hindi na ako nakapagsalita pa at Nabitawan ko na lang ang phone ko. I was

unconsciously watching the television. Hindi ko maialis ang nakapakong mga mata ko
sa TV.
Ilang saglit pa ay iniluwa ng TV si Amanda. Katabi niya si Shane habang

pinaliligiran siya ng mga body guards. I can say she’s still looks the same. Hindi
siya pumayat, hindi rin siya tumaba. She’s still have that perfect body.
My attention got caught when someone knocks.
“Hi babe! Pinaghintay ba kita ng matagal?” it was Jed who was smiling at me
genuinely.
Nangingilid ang luha ko. I am so scared to see his reaction about the news. Agad
naman niyang napansin na nanunod pala ako ng Tv kaya napatingin siya sa screen.
Kitang-kita sa mukha niya ang pagkabigla nang makita ang balita.
AMANDA LU, NABUNTIS KAYA NAWALA SA PILIPINAS NG HIGIT ISANG TAON.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anne's Letter: Hellooooooo guyyyyyssss! SUUUUPPPPEEEERRRRRR LLLAAAAATTTEEEEE!

Sorry! Sorry guys! Sorry po ngayon lang ulit ako nakapag update! Super busy sa
school. Huhuhuhu. Puro quiz ako sa buong week! TT^TT
So I hope you like it guys! So much thanks sa mga nagbabasa, sa mga comments, sa
mga votes niyo. Super-highly-well-appreciated! LOVE YOU GUYS!
OH! ETO NA! BACK TO INTENSE! :DD
God bless!
Love lots!
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 17
Chapter 17:
“I’ll be early tonight. Wag kang masyadong magpagod ha?” he said as he kiss me
passionately. “I love you...” he said between our kisses.
After that kiss. He looks directly into my eyes and smile genuinely. He cupped my
face and kiss me on my forehead.
“Come home early okay? Ipagluluto kita ng paburito mo.” He chuckles as he hugs me.
“Hayy, parang ayoko na tuloy pumasok!” I giggle. I wish hindi na nga lang siya
pumasok ngayon but he has to. “Wag na lang kaya akong pumasok?” I laugh as I pat
his chest lightly.
“Silly, you need to go to work.” I push Jed palabas ng pintuan. “Sige na pumasok ka
na.”
He stood in front of me smiling so silly. “I love you Leila. Always remember that.”
I smile as I lean on the edge of the door. “I love you more Jed. Forever and
always...”
He waves as he went to the car. I watch him as he drives away. Napabuntong hininga
ako nang makaalis na siya.
It’s been a week since that news came up. Since Amanda went back here in the
Philippines.
Isang buong linggo ring hindi ako iniwan dito ni Jed sa bahay. He never leaves me
showing and giving me strength. Nahihiya na ako sa kanya kaya I force him to go to
work.
Simula nang dumating si Amanda dito puro siya ang laman ng balita kaya Jed decided
that we should not watch television... but I wanted to know the real facts...

I wanted to know if she really is pregnant at sino ang ama nang anak niya. Is it
Jed?
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng lungkot at takot nang maisip ko ‘yun. Hindi puwede, hindi
p-pwede ang iniisip kong ‘yun.
But I analyse it very well... Napailing-iling ako sa naiisip ko. I don’t want to
think of it. Kasi in the end, sarili ko lang mismo ang sinasaktan ko.
I got bored inside the house. I decided to send message at Char and Ches, magkikita
kami sa mall.
“Hey sis! Okay ka pa ba? Gusto mo bang jombagin ko na yang si Amandalu?” pambungad
sa akin ni Chester nang magkita-kita kami sa isang coffee shop.
I smile habang napailing-iling ako. Kahit kailang talaga si Chester.
We chat a bit at the coffee shop as we drink our coffees and then we decided to
roam around the mall.
“Chan, wala ka pa rin bang nahahanap na regalo para kay Jed? Malapit na anniversary
niyo diba?” Char suddenly uttered while we were inside the department store.
Naalala ko nanaman yun. Hindi ko talaga alam kung anong bibilhin kong gift para kay
Jed. It seems like he had everything.
I sigh. “Hindi ko nga alam kung anong ire-regalo ko kay Jed. Para kasing lahat ng
bagay ay nasa kanya na.”
We continue on walking when suddenly, Char snap her finger. “I know kung ano ang
Maibibigay mo kay Jed na gift!” nangingislap pa yung mga mata niya as she said
those words.
“A-ano naman yun?” I had a feeling na hindi maganda ang nasa isip ni Charlotte.
Inilapit niya ang mukha niya sa tainga ko and whisper it to me.
“Give him a handsome baby boy!”bigla akong nanginig sa sinabi Charlotte.
“A-ano b-bayang iniisip mo Char! Pati ba naman ikaw?” medyo Napalakas ang tono ng
boses ko.
Bigla tuloy akong nakaramdam ng hiya sa harap ng napakaraming tao. Ngumisi lang sa
akin si Char kasabay nang pagpulupot niya ng kamay niya sa braso ko.
“E diba ayun ang gusto ng mga Chinese family? First baby dapat boy?” she giggles.
“Besides, sabi mo... wala kang maisip na material na bagay na ireregalo sa kanya
kasi nasa kanya na lahat!”
“Naku sissy! Kung ayaw mo ng suggestion ni Char yung akin na lang!” masayang sabi
ni Chester.
Minasamaan siya ng tingin ni Char. “Ano? Yung brief? Naku! Ikaw talagang bakla ka!
Pati ba naman asawa ng kaibigan mo pagnanasahan mo!?”
Ches rolled his eyes. Hindi na rin siya umimik.
I sigh. “I want something special...” napatingin ako sa mga naka display na relo sa
gilid. “Something that is priceless...” Ibinaling kong muli ang tingin ko kay Char.
I smiled at her. “Something that can makes him happy.”
Humarap sa akin si Char. “Bakit di mo siya bigyan ng isang special dinner? Surprise
ba?”
“Oo nga sis! Ganun na lang! Tapos ibigay mo yung gift mong--”
“Tse! Magtigil ka nga Chester!” inis na awat ni Char sa pinsan.
Napangiti ako sa idea ni Char. I can imagine right now, me and Jed eating dinner
with candle lights sa may pool side ng bahay.
“Tutulungan ka naming mag prepare!” excited na sabi ni Charlotte.
Tumango-tango bilang pagsangayon sa idea niya.

*****
Mag 4:30 na nang hapon nang makauwi ako ng bahay. Hindi ko mapigilan ang sarili
kong hindi ma-excite sa idea nila Char at Ches. A romantic dinner beside the pool
with candles and romantic song. It will be the best night for me and Jed.
Pagdating ko ng bahay, agad akong dumiretsyo sa kusina para mag prepare ng dinner.
I promise Jed that I’ll cook his favourite dish.
Around 6:30 in the evening when I finish everything. Nakaayos na yung table from
plates, spoon and fork, glasses and table clothing. I check my phone if ever mang
nag txt si Jed.
My expectations were right. Jed texted me a minute ago. Sabi niya he’s on his way
na pauwi. I smile while reading his message. Suddenly, biglang nag vibrate uli yung
phone ko.
It was a message from Charlotte.
She gave me a link. I click it.
At first, I was shocked. But I got my senses back. Umupo ako dahil nanghihina ang
tuhod ko.
“Amanda Lu Speaks.”
That was the head line of the article link. I keep on scrolling to read the
content.
It’s been a week since Amanda Lu came back from Paris. A lot of rumours spread out.
What is the real score? What is the real in these speculations?

Huminga ako nang malalim at ipinagpatuloy ang pagbabasa.
CherryMagazine: it’s been a week since you came back here in the Philippines. How
was it to be back?
Amanda Lu: it was nice to be home. I miss my friends, my family, my loved ones, and
also my work here.
CM: After a few weeks you have graduated in college they said you went into Paris
for what purpose? You know, a lot of rumours spread in when you came back... some
says you have a boyfriend way back in college and you got pregnant and raise your
child there. Others says you studied Fashion Designing in there. What is the truth
Miss Amanda Lu?
Itinigil ko muna ang pagbabasa ko. Kinakabahan ako sa magiging sagot niya. Half of
me says I don’t want to know but something is pushing me to know the truth. At
kahit na ano man ang lumabas sa article na ito, I have to accept what has been said
in here.
Amanda Lu: No, I’m not pregnant.
I feel so relieve nang mabasa ko yun. Para akong nabunutan nang malaking tinik sa
lalamunan.
CM: But do you really have a boyfriend?
Amanda Lu: Yes I do.
CM: Did you guys meet already now that your back? What about the other issue? Is it
true?
AL: Well, I did study there in Paris. At first, I thought I’ll only be there for a
couple of months but I didn’t expect that I’ll be happily staying there for three
years. Studying there was fun. I have improve my skills and learn a lot of things.
But then I realize I need to go back and take care of the things I’ve left.
CM: What about my other question? Did you and your boyfriend get in touch since you
came back? Can you name him?
AL: I’m sorry, I can’t name him. No, I’d never seen him since I went in Paris
neither talk to him. I cut all my connections with him since I was away here in the
Philippines.
CM: Why? Why did you do that?
AL: It’s complicated between the two of us. And I don’t wanna talk about it either.
Natigil ang pagbabasa ko nang madinig ko ang familiar na tunog ng sasakyan sa labas
ng bahay. It was Jed. I hurriedly went outside para salubungin si Jed.
I smile as he went outside the car. Agad akong tumakbo papalapit sa kanya at
niyakap siya.
I was the first one to kiss him. I was still smiling as I look into his eyes. He
was smiling back at me.
“Did you miss me that much?” he said.
“Yeah, I can’t live another day without you...” I give him a peck. “I love you so
much.”
He kiss me back. “I love you more... and more...” he said between our kisses.
I can’t stop kissing him back. I bend to deepen our kisses. I wrap my arms around
his neck and before I knew it we were walking backwards the door.
We were still kissing as he opens the door.
I’ve never felt this excitement before. I can feel the tense passing through my
system and I am loving this kind of feeling right now. It felt like matagal kaming
hindi nagkita ni Jed. That’s what I am feeling right now. It felt like I’ve missed
him so much.
He stop kissing me. I realize I was leaning on the wall.
“Let’s just eat dinner, okay?” he smile and kiss me on my forehead.
Bakit siya tumigil? Is he holding back?
Suddenly, it feels like my cheeks were burning. It felt like my face turns into a
red tomato! Bigla akong nakaramdam ng hiya.
Umupo na si Jed sa upuan. Agad akong pumunta sa kusina para i-serve yung food. But
still... I was thinking of something. Something that I have never think about. That
thing that they keep on pushing at me.
Should it be that time?
Umiling-iling ako. I don’t have to think about it. Hindi naman kami nagmamadali. We
have a lot of time and for now we have to build ourselves and enjoy each other’s
company. That’s for sure.
We eat dinner, we watch some movies and lay our backs together.
I feel safe in Jed’s arms. He was gently combing my hair while my head was placed
on his chest. Nararamdaman ko ang kalmadong paghinga ni Jed. Hinigpitan ko ang
pagkakayakap ko kay Jed.
“Jed?” I suddenly uttered.
“Hmm?”
“Did you and Amanda make out before?” nabigla ako sa sinabi ko.
Why did I even said it? Out of the blue bigla ko na lang nasabi ‘yon. Nakaramdam
ako ng hiya, kaba at takot. Napansin kong nagulat si Jed sa tanong ko.
I look at him. “Tell me the truth Jed. How many times you and her make out?”
Jed breathes deeply. “I won’t be mad or anything. I just wanna know...” I added.
He smiles at me and kiss me on my forehead. “I wanted to be honest with you and I

don’t want you to be hurt at the same time...” he can’t look directly into my eyes.
“Yes, may nangyari sa amin ni Amanda. Not just kiss and touch but it was beyond of
that. And now... I-I’m sorry, every time I had this urge inside between me and
you... I always feel guilty doing those things... hurting you.”
The last sentences he uttered. He was directly looking into my eyes. It made my
heart flutters and I don’t feel any anger of what I have heard. In this life... I
have to accept the truth even if it kills me. because that is the only way that we
can build our relationship even stronger.
“I love you, Jed.” That’s the only words I can say to him. Proving that I am okay
about all those things. Proving that I am stronger now than before. And it’s
because he loves me.
Hinigpitan ko ang pagkakayakap ko kay Jed as I place my head on his chest. I feel
safe in his arms... I feel safe in the arms of the man I loved the most.
*****
“Anong wine ang gusto niyong inumin for your special night?” tanong sa akin ni
Charlotte as we were roaming around the super market.
“Kahit ano, wala naman akong alam sa mga wine na ‘yan eh.” She smiles at me.
“Okay, ako na lang ang pipili!”

We continue walking habang hila-hila ko yung cart. Kinakabahan ako na nae-excite
para sa surprise ko kay Jed.
Tonight is the night of our anniversary.
Ilang oras pa bago ang special night na tinutukoy ni Char. Nasa super market kami
ngayon para mamili ng mga gagamitin namin.
“Sure ba kayo na matutuwa si Jed sa surprise na ‘to?” I am still worrying.
Ches taps my shoulder. “Ano ka ba naman sis! Kami na bahala mag ayos ni Couz
mamaya! I’m sure baka maging ninang na ako after this night!” masayang sabi ni
Chester.
Natawa na lang ako sa sinabi ni Ches at ipinagpatuloy na namin ang pamimili.
After that, agad na naming niluto yung pasta at nag prepare ng mga kailangan sa
bahay nila Charlotte. Hindi kasi puwede sa bahay dahil nga nandoon si Jed. Besides,
may ihinandang party si Mama para sa amin. I don’t know much about the details kung
sino ang mga nasa party but it is our own party to celebrate our anniversary.
I have made on time to went home.
Naunahan ko si Jed from office. He said he’ll pick me up by seven in the evening.
Isinuot ko na yung dress na binili niya para sa gabing ito. Jed said it looks good
on me so he bought it. I applied make-up and put on some jewelleries. Isinuot ko
rin yung kuwintas na ibinigay sa akin ni Jed nung graduation ko.
Exactly seven in the evening when Jed came and pick me up. He’s already groomed.
“You look gorgeous!” I greeted him as I went down stairs.
I kiss him. “You’re so hot!” he said in a husky voice. We both smile. “Happy
anniversary...”
“Happy anniversary...”
*****
We went to the venue. Hindi ko expected na marami palang bisita na nandito. Close
friends, business partners, relatives and such.
This is such a huge party that don’t ever expect. Kasi noon, were just having a
simple party. Me together with the Sy family. but everything is different right
now.
Buong gabi hawak-hawak ko lang ang kamay ni Jed, smiling and greeting people. I am
flattered as he introduces me to everyone proudly as his beloved wife.
“Jed, gusto ko munang maupo.” I said. Masakit na kasi ang paa ko dahil mula kanina
pa ay nakatayo na ako at walang tigil sa pag ngiti at pagbati sa mga bisita.
“Ok ka lang ba? Sige maupo ka na muna...” he guided me on a table and let me sit
there.
“Just stay here, may mga kakausapin lang ako.” I smile as I nod.
A few minutes nang iwan ako ni Jed sa table nang biglang mamatay ang lahat ng ilaw.
A sudden flash of light in front of me.
It was the spot light which was focus on me. I look around me and I realize ako
lang pala ang nakaupo doon sa table. Suddenly a soft music played.
[A/N: Song Title- No One Else Comes Close]

I turn my looks on the stage in front of me. Another spot light was focus on
there... it was Jed who’s standing there... smiling at me.
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen.” He speaks. “I would like to thank everyone who
came here. To witness this special night to me and my wife...” he looks at me and
smile.
I’m feeling unconscious sa paligid ko. I can only see right now... is Jed standing
in front of me.
He walks toward me. “Leila Chan-Sy, we’ve been together for almost 15 years. It’s
like we’ve been together half of our lives. I am so much happy that you’d never
give up on me. You love me so much more then you love yourself. I am so grateful
and lucky to have you for 15 years...” hindi ko alam kung bakit pakiramdam ko
nanlalabo na ang mga mata ko.
I realize I was about to cry.
“I can’t believe we made this so far. We all know...” he offers his hand on me. It
was a sign for me to stand.
I handed my hand onto him. I stand still beside Jed.
“Our marriage starts from a business contract when we were young. We were engage by
both of our families for business purposes....” He was holding my hand so tight as
he speaks. “We entered into a different kinds of obstacles. Feels a lot of pain...”
Jed looks at me and face me. “But as we grew with each other, our love grew as
well. All those pain and tears... they were all gone the moment we feel our love
gets stronger and stronger.” He was smiling as he was looking at me... saying those
words. “And tonight, it is our special night. It is our 15th year being
together...”
“Leila Chan-Sy...” bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. “Tonight, I would like you to
know how much I love you... how much I wanted to be with you for the rest of my
life...” napatakip ako nang bibig nang may dukutin si Jed sa kanyang bulsa.
It was a small box.
“Tonight, I want all of you to be the witness... friends, business partners,

relatives...” Jed held my hand and kiss it. “In behalf of Mrs Anita Chan, her
representative for tonight... Chao Mei.” Napatingin ako sa direksyon kung saan
nakatingin si Jed. I saw my elder sister-Mei. “And to my family. I want to ask your
permission... ” he open that small box he was holding.
My tears automatically falls.
He kneel down in front of me. “Leila Chan-Sy... you are the only girl I can see in
my future together with my future children. You are the love of my life...”
“Let’s get married again.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Anne's Letter: Hi guys! It's been a while! I'M SO SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG! >/\<
Akala ko hindi na ako magiging busy after ng final exams. I was wrong pala! TToTT
But now I updated this story! Yeahay! Hehehehe. I hope you like it guys!
THANK YOU SA COMMENTS! THANK YOU SA VOTES! THANK YOU SA LAHAT NG NAGBABASA!!!!
THANK YOUUUUUU SSOOOO MMMUUCCCCHHH!
Take care everyone!

God bless~!
Love.Love.Love
~ChecheAnne :">
PS I'm dedicating this story sa kanya. Hi! *Kaway Kaway* natawa ako nang mabasa ko
yung comment mo. Hahaha! Thank you sa comment mo! Sana magustuhan mo 'to. God
bless~! =))
=================
Chapter 18
Chapter 18:
“What do you think?” Jed asks me as he pointed out the pamphlet.
“Hindi ba masyadong magarbo kung diyan ang reception natin?”
He chuckles as he put his one arm around my waist. He pulls me closer to him.
“Babe, I want our wedding to be special.” I just smile. Wala na naman akong
magagawa kung ayon ang gusto ni Jed. He kiss me on my forehead. “I love you...”
It’s been a month since that special night. It’s been week since we were planning
for our wedding. And we are here right now in a five star hotel making reservations
for our wedding reception.
We have scheduled our wedding within six months after his proposal. Jed wanted us
to get married again this year. It was based on the old plan. Noong mga panahong
ang mga magulang niya ang nagbabalak ng renewal ng marriage namin. It’s a church
wedding.
Kilala namin ang mayari ng hotel na pagdadausan ng reception. It was Patrick’s
hotel. That’s why we were assisted very well by the manager.
Natapos na ang appointment namin. Everything is perfect. The church, the foods, the
reception venue, the invitations and such. The last things that we haven’t attended
yet is our gowns and the flowers.
“Jed, I’m hungry.” I uttered as we were on the road.
“Okay, where do you want to eat?” he ask but not looking at me. His eyes were focus
on the road.
Napaisip ako kung ano nga bang gusto kong kainin. Lately, Napapadalas ang pagkain
ko ng kung anu-ano. I just wanted my mouth to be filled with tasty foods.
“I want some burger, pancakes, pasta...” I just wanted to eat and eat. Napaisip pa
ako kung ano pa ba ang gusto kong kainin. “Oh, I also wanted some watermelon and
lots of sweets.” Masaya kong sabi.
Napakamot si Jed ng ulo and then he chuckles. “Babe, we can’t have it all in one
restaurant. Don’t you think it’s too much?”
“Ang alin?”
“Lately, you were asking lots of foods. Baka naman tumaba ka na niyan!” he laughs.
It hit me. I got pissed nang bitawan niya ang salitang “tumaba”. “Bakit? Iiwan mo
ko kapag tumaba ako?” I demanded.
He held my hand and kiss it. Still, his eyes were focus on the road. “Of course
not. Kahit na lumobo ka pa ng sobra I’ll still love you and only you.” saglit lang
siyang tumingin sa akin at ibinalik na niyang muli ang tingin sa daan.
“But I recommend you should stop eating too much.” Napatingin ako sa kanya. “Baka
hindi magkasya sayo yung wedding gown mo sa araw ng kasal natin.” Then he laughs
again.
Hinampas ko siya sa braso. “Stop it!” I really got pissed.

We stop by on a spaghetti house. We just ate pasta for mirrienda. But the truth is,
I was the one who suggested it. I just wanted to eat pasta.
Our next stop is the flowers.
“They were all pretty!” I happily said as I held each one.
I love all of it. I really love flowers especially roses.
I was the one to pick the kinds of flowers we were using. Ang motif kasi ng wedding
namin ay light pink and old white. Mama wanted our visitors to wear pastel colors.
I chose white and pink roses and a little touch of tulips.
Nang matapos na kaming mamili ng bulaklak we decided to go on a super market for

our supplies.
We pick meats, chicken, fish, vegetables, bread, fruits and such supplies. After
mamili ay umuwi na kami ng bahay. Napagdesisyunan na rin kasi namin ni Jed na
ipagpabukas yung gowns. We also need to inform yung mga abay, ninong at ninang na
pasukatan ng gowns.
“What’s that smell?” I ask Jed as he sits beside me.
“Huh? Bakit?”
“Amoy malansa kasi. I don’t like the smell.” I said irritably.

“Wala naman akong naamoy na malansa ah?” I try to trace the smell.
It was the mango Jed’s holding on a plate. “Amoy malansa yung mangga. Ilayo mo sa
akin yan!” I said.
Irritable parin ako. Jed just do what I said. He finish eating his mangoes at the
kitchen while I watch alone at the sofa.
We lay our backs together. Like the way it used to be, my head was placed on Jed’s
chest while he combs gently my hair.
“Babe, are you okay?” Jed suddenly said out of the blue.
I look at him. “H-ha? Bakit? Oo, okay lang naman ako.”
Jed breaths deeply. “Napapansin ko lang kasi, this past week madalas kang
irritable. Your sense of smelling seems to be sensitive than usual and...” he
paused.
“And?”
“Madalas mo na akong inaaway.” Nagtatampong tono ng boses ni Jed.
I giggle. “Silly.” I hug him more tighter. “I might got mad at you... but my love
for you will never fade.”
“I love you Jed”
*****
Two weeks na rin ang nakalipas... everything’s settled for now. Jed went back to
work again. The past week kasi nag leave siya para masikaso namin yung wedding
preparations namin.
We made bunch of guest. Siguro mga within two months maipapadala na yung
invitation. Then for the last months of preparation we’ll polish everything.
Jed wanted us to have our honeymoon for a month outside the country. We haven’t
planned about it kung saan kami pupunta but that is for sure.
Naisipan kong magpunta nang mall. I just got bored inside the house.
Hindi ko na inabala pang ayain si Char at Ches kasi alam kong busy sila sa job
haunting. I offer them a job sa company but they rejected me. Sabi nila hindi daw
sila gagamit ng influence ng kaibigan or kamaganak. They wanted to prove to
theirselves that they were worth for the job they will have.
I already enrolled at a culinary school. Malapit na rin ang pasukan pero ngayong
hindi pa nagsisimula ang klase I feel got bored dahil hindi na madalas ang
pagbisita ni Char at Ches sa bahay kapag wala si Jed. I already miss my best friend
too. I miss Patrick. I send an e-mail on Pat about my wedding hoping that he can
come. He’s still not making any replies on my messages. It looks like he was really
busy there.
My feet leads me on the department store. I just wanted to look for some clothes
and such. Pero naagaw ng atensyon ko ang mga damit pambata—baby clothes. I can
imagine now having a child with Jed. Gusto kong lumaki ng masaya at puno ng
pagmamahal ang anak ko.
Paalis na sana ako ng kids section nang makarinig ako ng pag-iyak sa gilid. I
followed the sound at nakakita ako ng isang batang lalaki sa gilid ng shelves ng
damit.
Mukhang nasa edad 1 to 2 years old yung bata. He looks so scared. So I walk towards
him. Umupo ako para kausapin yung bata. I smile at him telling that everything is
fine.
“Hi there...” I greeted. Hindi niya ako pinansin. It looks like natakot siya sa
akin. “Don’t be scared, I’ll bring you at the Customer’s Service para mahanap ka ng
mommy mo.”
Binuhat ko na yung bata at Dinala sa Customer’s Service. Buti na lang at may info
tag yung bag nung bata.
“Justine Lu.”
They broadcast the name of the little boy. I waited for the companion of the child.
Nakatulog na nga yung bata habang buhat-buhat ko. I smile as I imagine it was Jed
and I’s child. Magiging masaya siguro kami kung ganito rin ka-cute ang anak namin.
It takes an hour bago pa dumating yung nanay nung bata.
“Asan na po yung anak ko?” I heard his mom’s voice. Nasa loob kasi mismo kami ng
customer’s service nung bata.
“Kayo po ba yung kasama ni Justine Lu?”
“Yes. Ako ang mommy niya.”
“Puwede po bang patingin kami ng ID niyo ma’am?”
“Here”
“Amanda Lu. Mrs Lu nasa loob po yung anak niyo.”
Agad akong nakaramdam ng kaba. Napatingin ako sa batang hawak-hawak ko ngayon na

mahimbing na natutulog. Nanginig ang buo kong katawan.
“Justine!” agad na sabi ng babae at nagkumahog na tumakbo sa kinauupuan ko.
It was really Amanda Lu. She held her son. Hindi niya yata ako napansin dahil sa
sobrang pagaalala niya sa anak niyang nawala sa kanya.
She held her little angel so tight. Looks like she was about to break.
“I love you baby. I thought I’m gonna lose you.” she said while holding her
sleeping angel.
I clear my throat and it looks like it caught her attention para tumingin sa akin.
Nang magtama ang mga mata namin, kitang-kita ko ang gulat na reaksyon ni Amanda.
“May anak ka na pala talaga.” I just uttered.
She smiles at me and kiss her son. “Yeah. He’s my angel.”
Hindi ko na alam kung anong sasabihin ko kay Amanda. Should I leave her now?
“I have to go. Take care of your son very well.” I said and walk away from her.
Nakakailang hakbang pa lang ako but she calls out my name. I look back at her.
“Thank you...”
“No problem” I smile bitterly.
“Leila wait...” every time she calls my name, it makes my heart beats more faster.
I am not ready to see her.
All those pain, she made it brings back. All of my sufferings. It all comes back
with just one flash.
But I have to be brave for the sake of my love for Jed. So I turn my looks again at
her.
“Yes? May kailangan ka pa ba Amanda?” I may act so strong in front of her but deep
inside I am about to break.
She smiles at me as she walks towards. “I heard you and Jed are going to get marry
again.”
“Yes we are.”
Her smile... it brings chills through my spine. “I think that won’t be happening
anymore.”
Napakunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. “H-ha? A-anong sinasabi mo?”
“You see...” she looks at her son. “This little angel...” then she looks at me and
smile devilishly.
“You know it was Jed’s son. And I’ll get what is right for my son... for our son.”
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
=================
Chapter 19
Chapter 19:
“Noon ko pa gustong sabihin kay Jed na magiging ama na siya...”
“Kaya lang nawalan na kami ng communication...”
“I know Jed will accept his own son...”

“Kung ako sayo, I should stop the wedding right now...”
“Get loss in Jed’s life...”
“You’re just a replacement of me.”
I just keep on crying sa loob ng kotse ko. It’s been an hour nang magkita kami ni
Amanda at ng anak niya sa mall. I was still at the parking lot ng mall.
Nang makarating ako ng parking lot ay agad akong humagulgol ng iyak. Sobrang sakit
ng mga nadinig ko mula kay Amanda. She has her proof... and it was her baby. Which
Jed and I don’t have.
It’s been an hour after I gathered my strength again. I fix myself.
Agad akong dumiretsyo ng bahay. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang mga susunod pang
mangyayari. Matagal na kayang alam ni Jed? Does he know that he had a son with
Amanda?
Will he leave me?
No... I can’t afford to lose him... I love him so much.
Ayokong mawala si Jed sa akin... hindi ko kaya.

I just seat at the sofa. Hindi parin mawala sa isip ko yung mga sinabi kanina ni
Amanda.
Bakit kailangan pang mangyari ng mga ganoong bagay?
Bakit ngayon pang naranasan kong maging masaya? Bakit ngayong naranasan kong
mahalin ako ng taong mahal ko? bakit?
Hindi ko namalayang nakatulog na pala ako sa kakaisip. I just wake up founding Jed
beside me happily watching me asleep.
“You look so tired today.” He greeted.
I smiled as I sit properly. Right now, pinipilit kong hindi umiyak. I can’t let
myself break down in front of him. But looking at him smiling genuinely at me makes
my heart tears apart. For so many times he had given me pain but this is the most
painful thing I could ever imagine.
Jed’s a father now... and the child was not mine.
“Are you okay?” he asks.
I try to smile as I nod telling him I was fine... but I am not. I was deeply
wounded.
“Are you sure? You look like you are not okay. Masama ba ang pakiramdam mo?”
“Sort of. Masakit ang ulo ko.” masakit ang ulo ko kakaisip sa mga nangyari.
“C’mon I’ll take you upstairs.” He guided me paakyat ng kuwarto.
A few minutes he leaves me inside our room para kumuha ng medicine. That minute
gives me the time to think about it again.
Should I tell him?
Pero natatakot ako sa magiging rekasyon niya. What if iwanan niya ako? I can’t live
without Jed.
Dumating na si Jed na may dalang gamot at isang basong tubig. “Here, take this
medicine.”
I do as he says. Nang maiinom ko na yung gamot ay inalalayan niya ako sa paghiga

muli. He places his one arm on the edge of the bed. Ginawa kong unan ang braso ni
Jed at niyakap siya.
I hug him tighter. My tears falls in an instant.
“Babe, what’s wrong?” he asks worriedly.
Umiling-iling ako as I wipe my tears. “Jed? Can you promise me something?”
“Anything for you... I’ll do everything for you Leila.”
I take a deep sigh. “Can you promise me that you’ll never leave me? no matter what
happens... you’ll stay by my side?”
He smiles at me. he kiss me on my forehead. “Yes, I promise. I won’t leave you no

matter what.”
And he gave me that sweet kiss. “I love you Leila.”
It makes me feel assured but I still don’t have the guts to tell him about Amanda
and her baby.
*****
Days had passed by.
Hanggang ngayon hindi ko parin nasasabi sa kanya. Pakiramdam ko ay nagsisinungaling

ako kay Jed. It felt like I’m such a bad wife. Pakiramdam ko napaka selfish ko para
ipagdamot sa isang batang walang kaalamalam sa mga nangyayari sa paligid niya.
Pakiramdam ko napakasama ko.
Kahit na hindi pa kami nabibiyayaan ni Jed ng anak, still... I can understand how
hard it was. Ayoko namang mamuhay sa kalungkutan at puno ng katanungan ang anak ni
Amanda kapag lumaki na ito. Ayokong lumaki itong walang kinikilalang ama.
But I am still undecided... hindi ko parin alam kung anong desisyon ang pipiliin
ko.
I search for Amanda’s website and found her contact number.
I dialled it and make a call. Yung secretary ang nakasagot ng tawag ko.
“I wanted to speak with Amanda Lu, please tell her it’s Leila Sy.”
After a few seconds my call was forwarded to her.
“Amanda, let’s talk.”
*****
“So? Anon gusto mong pausapan natin?” Amanda said as she drinks her cup of coffee.
I take a deep breath. Tiningnan ko siya n diretsyo sa ma mata niya. I have no fears
to hold on cause I have to fight for what is right for me.
“Let’s talk about us. Let’s talk about you and Jed. Let’s talk about me and Jed.
Let’s talk about Jed and his son.” Right now, I have no fears. Wala akon takot na
harapin si Amanda ngayon.
Kung noon, siguro baka hindi ko na kiya ito at sumuko na lang ako basta basta.
Maybe... the past changes me and makes me more stronger right now. Besides, I am
holding on my love for Jed. I can’t afford to lose him like this. Kaya gagawin ko
lahat ng paraan para lang mag stay si Jed sa tabi ko.
Amanda leans on her chair. She looks at me fearlessly. Like she wanted to take away
what’s mine.
“So, mukhang hindi mo pa sinasabi kay Jed.” She grins at me and place her both
hands on the table. “Do you want me to tell him?” she said sarcastically.
“Of course I’ll tell him. I just wanted to make things clarify between the
three...” I paused. “No, between the four of us.”
Napansin kong uneasy na siya. She crossed her arms as she looks outside the window
of the coffee shop.
“I’m not going to give up on Jed. Never.”
Mukhang nagulat siya sa sinabi ko. she even looks at me as if she wanted to slap my
face but she did not.
“Ako ang asawa niya and I have the rights on him... simula pa lang noong umpisa.”
“Are you crazy? He doesn’t even love you. The thing that he was holding on to you
ay dahil sa kumpanya. He was just trying to get married with you again because of
that.”
I gathered all my senses to calm down. “Think of what you think Amanda. But I am
one hundred percent sure that Jed loves me for real and he won’t gonna leaves me.
You are the one who leaves him. Ikaw ang sumuko sa laban. I deserve to be with him
I deserve being happy with him.”
“Jed deserves to be happy with his own family... and that is us. Me, Jed and
Justine.” I can still hold on to my patience. I know what I am doing is right. I
have to win this battle.
“Jed will be responsible for your son. And that... bahala na ang batas doon. He can
still do right things being a father to your son.”
“Sa tingin mob a papayag ako ng ganon na lang?” she breaks down. I can see in her
eyes she was gone mad at me. “My son was not a bastard. He has the right on
everything. At hindi ako papayag na magmukhang kawawa ang anak ko. Hindi ako
papayag na mag mukhang namamalimos ng pagmamahal.”
“Pero...” I look down and pinned back my eyes on hers. “Diba ‘yon naman ang
ginagawa mo?”
She looks so puzzled on the words I have thrown to her.
“Diba panglilimos ang ginawa mo noon?” I laugh sarcastically. “No, no. I was wrong.
Hindi ka namalimos. Nagnakaw ka.”
“I didn’t steel anything from you.”
“You stole my husband. You made him drown into lust hanggang sa malunod na siya.” I
thrown my words with harshness. “But I am still thankful to you...” I smile at her
genuinely. “Kung hindi dahil siguro sayo, Jed and I wouldn’t realize how much we
love each other.”
I smile at her as I stand up. “I have to go. Kailangan pa kasi naming pumunta ni
Jed sa gagawa ng gowns for the wedding.”
I was about to walk when I realize I forgot something to say. “Oh and by the
way...”
I face her smiling. “Thankful din ako sayo sa kung ano ako ngayon. Kung hindi
siguro dahil sayo, hindi ako magiging ganito katatag ngayon.”
And I say my final good bye to her.
*****
Agad akong dumiretsyo ng office. Jed was there. I told him na ako na lang ang
pupunta sa office para kahit papano ay masikaso niya ang paper works na tumambak na
dahil sa pagiging busy niya para sa wedding namin.
“Sorry I’m late.” Sabi ko as I open the door.
He was there siting at his swivel chair. Smiling at me. “You are just in time.”
Agad siyang tumayo at niyakap ako. “I’ve missed you...” he said softly and it
strikes to my heart.
I giggle. He was still hugging me. “Silly. Ilang oras pa lang nang umalis ka ng
bahay? Miss me already?”
He smiles at as give a peck on my lips. He looks at me and smile genuinely. “I miss

you so much.”
Umalis na kami ng office and went on a restaurant to have some lunch. I am still
not able to tell him the truth.
We eat and went on the shop kung saan kami magus-sukat ng gowns.
“It perfectly fits on you!” paghangang sabi ni Shine. Yung designer ng gown.
I smile at her and turn my looks back at the mirror facing me. I look at myself
with proud and happiness. I am going to be a proud bride of my husband. It
perfectly fits on me.
I’ll fight for this wedding. I’ll fight for my happily ever after.
They removed the curtain. Myself wearing this beautiful gown revealed to Jed who
was sitting at the couch waiting for me to show my wedding dress.
I was nervous about what will he react. Will he like the dress?
Slowly, I lift my head to see his face. I got scared when silence empowered the
whole room. At first, hindi ko maintindihan yung reaction ni Jed. He doesn’t seem
having any kind of reaction. I smile at him to ease the awkwardness I feel.
“Do you like it?” I ask.
Tumayo si Jed at naglakad papalapit sa akin. “I don’t like it... I love it. You
look gorgeous.”
I feel relieved. I am glad he liked it.
*****
Lumipas ang araw ng paguusap namin ni Amanda. Yet I haven’t tell Jed about it...
about him being a father.
I decided to discuss it with my two best friends.
“Hay nako Chan! Mapapatay ko yang si Amanda kapag nakita ko siya!” inis na sabi ni
Char.
“Truelalu! That Amanda Lu! Mhe Ghed! Pere siyang si Nicole! Nakakainis! Sarap
kalbuhin!” panggigil na sabi ni Ches as if Amanda was really right here in front of
us.
“Nicole? Who’s Nicole?” I ask. Kinuha ko yung milk tea na inorder ko.
We were here at Infinitea. Chester rolled his eyes on me. “Hindi ka ba nanunuod ng
TV gurl? Hallurrr! Trending kaya sa twitter ang The Legal Wife!”
“Correct! The Legal Wife! Title mo yun Chan!” Char utters.
“The Legal Wife?” I laugh as I utter those words.
“Yeah! Two weeks na lang matatapos na yung teleserye na ‘yon noh! You should watch
it!” ani Char.
“Ipapahiram ko sayo yung binili kong volumes ng TLW! Ang ganda promise! You’re so
relate with it!” Ches assuring me.
I smile at them and take a sip again.

“Pero maiba tayo ng usapan...” Char pause. Sumandal siya sa couch na inuupuan
namin. “Ano nang balak mo? Kailan mo sasabihin kay Jed? When are you going to tell
him the truth?”
It hit me. “I don’t know either.” I said plainly.
Ches rolled his eyes. “So? Ano na ateng? Aantayin mo na lang bang si bruhang Amanda
ang masabi kay fafa Jed?”
No. of course I don’t want that to happen. “I-I just... I-I just don’t have the
right timing to tell him.”
Napabuntong hininga na lang ang magpinsan. “Hay naku sis! Sabihin mo na hangga’t
maaga pa! Baka ikaw rin ang magsisi sa huli!” sabi ni Chester.
I just take a deep. It is hard for me to do the right things right now.
I got home by evening. Jed was already at home surprisingly.
“Why are so early?” I ask as I open the door.
Nakaupo pa si Jed sa sofa. He smiles as he walks towards me. “How did you know?”
I laugh. “Naka park kaya yung kotse mo sa labas!” I said. We both laugh.
He kiss me on my forehead. “How’s your date with your girlfriends?” he was

referring to Ches and Char.
“Hmm... it was great! We talk a lot of things and some matters...” I can’t tell him
what we had really talked about.
He sways me around and then he hugs me from my back. “You seemed to missed them
aren’t you?”
His sound gets husky as he whispers it through my ears. “Aren’t you missing me
babe?”
It really tickles me. I face him and put my both palms on his cheeks. “I miss you
more than anything...”
I try to reach his forehead. Now, I realize how he was taller than me that I have
to be in a tip toe position. I kiss his forehead.
“I am missing you every second...”
My kiss went down on his nose. “Every minute...”
I smile at him. I claim his lips. “I miss you every day... every moment you are not
around me.”
I hug him. “I can’t live another day without you Jed.”
I really got emotional. I wanted to be strong for him. I wanted to be strong to

fight for our love. I wanted to be strong to fight for our marriage.
I hug him more tighter like I don’t wanna lose him. My tears automatically falls.
Hindi ko na mapigilan ang mga luha ko sa pagtulo.
It reach Jed’s concern. Kumalas siya sa pagkakayakap ko at hinawakan ko sa

magkabilang balikat.
I was still keep on crying. “What’s the matter babe?” he sounded so worriedly.
Things got messed up. In just a second flash of an instant... I am back being
miserable.
“Will you promise me that you’ll never leave me?”
His face... even though my eyes were full of tears, I can see Jed’s worriedly face.
He kiss me on my forehead and hug me.
“Yes, I promise. I promise to be with you forever. We made a promise right?” his
sounds were assuring.
“I-I have to tell you something...” I am really scared to tell him the truth but I
have to accept all of him. Because I love him.
“It was something about you and me...”
“W-what’s wrong? Is it about the wedding reception? I’ll make changes of the venue.
Kung gusto mo sa mas maliit na room na lang... or--”
“No, it’s not just about me and you... it’s about me, you... and Amanda...”
Napakamot ng ulo si Jed. “Leila naman, are you still having doubts about me loving
you? I am telling you the truth. I really love you deep down my heart and you
don’t--”
“May anak na kayo ni Amanda Jed!” I just burst it out.
I can see Jed’s reaction. He was shock.
“W-what are you talking about? Nagbibiro ka lang Leila diba?”
Pinunansan ko ang luha ko. “Yes, may anak kayo ni Amanda...”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
Sometimes, truth really hurts... but you have to endure it and feel every pain
Sooner or later, the truth will set you free and you’ll find yourself letting go of
that hurtful truth behind your back and trying to move forward leaving it behind.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----
Anne's Letter: Hi guys! Early update? what you think? sino na pumapasok ngayon?
Good luck~! FIGHTING! Eh sino water proof jan? Kelan pasok niyo? Hahaha! Wala lang
natanong ko lang. ^____^
I have so many things to say to you guys but I have tto sum it all in 2
words: THANK YOU. =))
I was really shock the moment I open my acct and I didn't expect na madami nanaman
ang reads ng story na 'to. I am speechless! I am Thankful to everyone of you! Thank
you sa comments, sa flood votes, sa pag add sa RL niyo at sa pag follow sa akin
dito sa watty. I am really flattered. I am really happy. So far, TMW is on ChickLit
#24 and on Romance #182 WAAAAAHHHHH! Thankful ako sa inyong lahat! Kung hindi dahil
sa inyo di ako makakakuha ng place na ganyan! Ang babaw ko no? Hehe, pagbigyan niyo
na ako. Hindi ko lang kasi talaga expected. I am not expecting big or something. I
just wanted to share all of my thoughts.
Siguro nagsasawa na kayo sa mga notes ko after ng update? Hahaha! Sorry po! >____<
But I just wanna mentioned some pen names here whom I have seen recently on my
notification: HELLO SA INYO~!
SerenaTsukino16 | SoulKillerPrincess | eloi341 | dazzlelish | MissMeganBlue_11 |

missaleicka | Jayrakrishy | an_zelrad | claritamambo | delly_rizzy | swiftin13 |
rosemibato | cocobash | neriyatim | natsume27alice | ShinyLight | meiweigh |
juunnachi | ChryssJullianne | thiaffe | Bashty | ihatelizards | TrishaVictoria |
ItsmeMjooooy | shykneegerl | kawaiilady | HaTe_DeAtH | Pinky_Chellah | amjalipo12 |
simplyeclair | OverDose | RhaeAncajas
Di mo nakita pangalan mo? Hi sayo~! *kaway* *kaway* \^___^/ sorry di ko na naisama

yung name mo. ang bagal kasi ng net eehhh~! >____<
Pero makakalimutan ko ba yung mga unang taong naka basa at unang mga nag comment
dito? Hi~! Ice_LabsU | ItsDanielJohn | heyitsmelyza | WreckThisGirl | bookish91 |
anonymouslyacee (di ko na matandaan yung new acct name mo friend! >____<) may
nakalimutan ba ako sa inyo? Pagpasensyahan niyo na ang ate niyo ha? Tuamatanda na
kasi, kailangan nang mag memo plus gold. xDD
Anyhow... THANK YOU SA INYONG LAHAT! SILENT READER KA MAN OR KAGAYA NG MGA
NABANGGIT KO *hugs and kisses*
Take care everyone!

God bless~!
~ChecheAnne :">
PS: Miss niyo na ba si fafa Pat? =))
=================
Chapter 20
Chapter 20:
Napaluhod si Jed sa harapan ko... he was holding both of my hand as he kneeled down
in front of me.
He started to cry. “I’m sorry...” he keeps on repeating those words as he cries.
Ako rin, hindi ko mapigilang maiyak. He was crying as he kneels in front of me.
hawak-hawak niya ang mga kamay ko nang napakahigpit.
Why this things happened to us?
Bakit kung kailan ko naramdaman yung kaligayahan na ‘yon?
Bakit ngayon pa kami sinalubong nang unos na ‘to?
A few moments of silence came when Jed and I put ourselves together. No one dares
to talk since we recovered in our shcokness and pain. Nakaupo lang kami sa sala.
“You should see your son, Jed.” I already broke the silence.
I look at him. I think he was still in shock. He sighs deeply. “I don’t know if I
can...”
His sounds were full of doubts. “Jed...” I can’t say a word...
Hinawakan ko ang isang balikat ni Jed. “He is your son. You should take
responsibilities...” he looks at me. In an instant, I smile at him genuinely. “You
must do your job being a father to Justine.”
“How can you say those words?” it hit me. “Bakit mo nasasabi ang mga ‘to sa akin
kahit na dapat nagagalit ka sa akin? Why are you cheering me up? You should slap me
or hate me... or disgusted on me... dapat mo akong kamuhian Leila... I always give
you pain...” tumungo si Jed. He put his both palm on his face covering his tears.
“I can’t make you happy...” I heard him sob.
I gently tap his back. I hug him so tight. “You always makes me happy Jed... hindi
ko magagawang magalit sa’yo... kasi mahal na mahal kita. That is how I love you...
I can give you all of me... even my happiness just to make you happy.” He was
crying again while looking at me. “Even if it kills me inside... even if it takes a
hell to be with you... I’ll take the risk and love you all my heart.” I smile at
him as I put my both palms on his cheeks. “Mahal na mahal kita Jed... ganoon kita
kamahal. Kaya tatanggapin ko ang buong pagkatao mo... kahit masakit... titiisin
ko.”
I don’t know if my words help him... but I should make him see how much I love him,
‘wag lang niya akong iwanan.
I kiss him on his forehead. “I love you Jed... I love you more than you know...”
*****
The next day, Jed and I prepared ourselves to meet his son. I was the one who
suggested it. I was the one who tells him to do so... I was the one pushing myself
to get wounded even more.
I fix his neck tie. We were at our room facing the body mirror.
He sighs so deeply and looks at me. Hinawakan niya ako sa magkabilang balikat. “Are
you sure about this?” he was referring about meeting his son... with Amanda.
I giggle as I hug him. “Silly Jed! Of course you must!”
I fix his tie again. “Let’s go? Justine’s waiting for us...” he sighs again. “I’m
sure you’ll gonna like him. He’s so cute!”
We went at a fine dining restaurant. As I expected, nauna kami ni Jed kaysa kay
Amanda and Justine. I already made a reservation for the four of us. A few minutes
after we came, dumating na rin ang mag-inang si Amanda at Justine.
“Long time no see, Jed.” Amanda greeted as we all stand in a one corner.
I look at Jed, he didn’t response with Amanda’s greet instead he looks at this
little boy.
“Is he Justine?”
Amanda looks at her son. “Yeah, his Justine... your son.”
Jed kneels down to reach the level of his son. Hinaplos-haplos ni Jed ang mukha at
buhok ni Justine. He smiles genuinely at his son. He seems really happy meeting
Justine. Jed kisses his forehead sabay buhat dito.
Jed, Amanda and I talked about the legal rights of Justine.
“I’ll do my responsibilities to Justine... that’s all. But you and me... we are of
beyond that.” Jed said as he held my hand. I feel secured and relieve.
I look at Amanda’s reaction. I can see she was pissed. It seems like she cannot
accept what had Jed said.
Amanda crosses her arms and lean on the chair. “Fine, if that’s what you want...”
she looks at me as if she wants a new battle to start. “Pero kapag may bonding kayo
ni Justine dapat kasama ako. I should be with my son wherever he goes. Okay lang
naman sayo ‘yon...” she looks directly at me. she grins. “Leila?”
I sigh deeply. “The lawyer will decide about it Amanda. We have to set things
legally.”
The day was off. The four of us went for a walk for the sake of Justine. But deep
inside me, it was really awkward to be with Jed, Amanda and their son. It seems
like I was not belong in that place.
Pakiramdam ko, hindi ako nage-exist nung mga panahong ‘yon. I was like walking
behind them. Kung hindi nila ako kasama at ibang tao ako, iisipin kong masayang
pamilya sila. Jed’s really happy together with his son.
I wish Justine was our son...
*****
It was already 11 o’clock in the evening but I couldn’t sleep. Ang daming tumatakbo
sa isip ko... ang dami ko nanamang doubts. My head was completely safe on Jed’s
chest. I can feel his heartbeat. Is he asleep? Looks like napagod siya kanina...
but surely he was having fun together with his son.
“Why are you not sleeping yet?”
Nagulat ako nang biglang magsalita si Jed. I thought he was asleep. Agad akong
napabangon. I was directly looking at him. His face shows that worriedness.
“Are you okay?” he asks.
I give him a smile to assure him as I nod. “Yes... I’m fine.”
He smiles at me and then he drags me towards his chest. I was completely in his
arms. Yakap-yakap niya ako nang napakahigpit na para bang ayaw na niya akong
pakawalan. Instead of hating this feeling... I am loving this kind of...
“I know you are not... I’m sorry.” His words were sincere.
I look at him. Napangiti ako sabay iling. “You don’t have to be sorry Jed...” I
placed my one hand on his left cheek. “Diba sabi ko noon, tatanggapin ko lahat ng
pagkakamali mo... kasi mahal na mahal kita?”
I smile. I have to be strong for him. “Ganoon kita kamahal Jed.”
Bumalik ako sa pagkakasandal ko sa dibdib niya. I hug him tighter and feel asleep.
Ilang araw din ang lumipas.
Jed and Justine was having a good father and son relationship. Minsan nagpupunta
sila kung saan kapag oras na ng visitation rights ni Jed. Sometimes, I was with
them going out at the park having fun.
It feels like Justine was my own son. It feels like we are happy family.
But things got worse...
It was Sunday morning when I woke up... someone had gotten out of mind surprisingly
visiting our house.
“A-anong ginagawa mo dito?” gulat kong sabi nang makita ko si Amanda sa kitchen.
She was preparing something that I don’t know.
She smiles at me. “Cooking?” she said sarcastically at me.
I composed myself to relax at a moment. I walk towards her.
I saw Justine sitting at the sofa playing with his toy. I look back at Amanda. As
if she was living at our house... she was as if a member of the house.
“No. I mean paano ka nakapasok? Why the hell are you here with Justine? Diba si Jed
ang susundo sa kanya mamaya? You are not supposed to be here!” I burst.
She stop chopping those potatoes. She looks at me. “I know. But I have still the
rights. Bakit ako nakapasok? Cause I have a key. Jed gave this to me a long time
ago.”
My heart felt broken into pieces. Pero nangingibabaw pa rin sa akin na dapat maging
matatag ang loob ko. I have to be strong.
“Still rights? You don’t have any rights Amanda. It’s only Justine.”
Hindi siya nagsalita. Napabaling nanaman ang tingin ko kay Justine. Naawa ako sa
bata, naiipit siya sa sitwasyon ng mga magulang niya... everything is complicated
around him but when I look at him, I can see innocence. Naawa ako sa bata. Bata pa
lang siya napakarami na niyang kailangang maintindihan.
“I have all the rights dahil ako ang asawa niya.”
A few seconds before I burst out again, Jed suddenly enters impassively. I cannot
resonate his reaction, whether he is shock or what. Agad siyang lumapit sa amin ni
Amanda. He grabs Amanda with his one hand.
“What are you think you’re doing Amanda? Are you out of your mind!?” his tone is
very high, it really sounds so mad.
I look at Amanda. She blinks trice as she looks at Jed’s mad face. Suddenly she
recovers from her sort of moment. “N-nothing? I was just cooking? Is there any
problem?”
Binitawan na siya ni Jed. He rushes his both hands through his hair. He never does
that, it seems like he was really gone mad. Jed closes his eyes for a second and
take a deep breath.
“Okay, let’s make this easy for Justine’s sake.” He looks at Justine who was
innocently playing there at the sala. “For my son...” he added.
He turns his looks at Amanda. “You can’t just barge in here Amanda. We have a deal
and this is not part of our deal.”
“Why can’t I? I was supposed to be here before... I am the one should be at your
side Jed. Don’t you remember?” it cuts me. as if I am not here with them having
that old issue.
I want to know what Jed would answer. Gusto kong malaman ang sagot niya.
Gusto kong marinig na pinapahalagahan parin niya ang marriage namin... I want him
to show Amanda how strong our love for each other.
“Yes, siguro noon. But Amanda, it’s been a long time ago. The love... The
affection... it was all buried in the past now Amanda...” Jed looks at me. I was
just standing there beside him the whole time. he holds my hand. “And I have a
future I wanted to build... not with you but...” he glances at me once more. “but
with Leila and our future family...” I kinda bit blush with his words. It was so
assuring and I feel so safe.
Amanda was in her moment of anger. She really is mad as she looks at me and Jed’s
hand which was holding mine.
“What about me and Justine?” she sounds like she was about to crack or something.
Jed sighs again. “Amanda, there is no ‘us’ since you left. It’s been a long time...
I still love you but not as much as my love for Leila. Our past... it was all
behind. We can’t change anything about that.” He looks so serious about the matter.
“And for Justine, wag kang magalala Amanda. I’ll love our son equally and give all
the love and rights he needs of me as his father. That won’t change Amanda. Having
Justine as part of our lives tangled up at us. Making things complicated but I’ll
give all my support and love for your son... for our son, Amanda.”
Unti-unti nang tumulo ang mga luha sa mga mata ni Amanda. It seems like I have won
the battle against her doing effortless. Maybe it was for now...
She wipes it swiftly and smiles. An odd smile of hers. “I guess I have nothing to
do about it.” she grabs her bag and walk towards Justine.
She kisses her son. Making him feel the love of her mother.
“I guess I have to leave Justine here with you...” she looks straight at me, giving
me that kind of threatening look. “I hope you don’t mind it Leila.”
I smile at her. “Of course not, parang anak ko na rin si Justine.”
She smirks. “I’ll be out of town in two days for some business matters and I am
leaving Justine here...” she looks at her son. She looks so worries leaving her son
at us. “I have no one to take care of him... I am counting on you Jed.”
“Yes, please do. Hindi namin pababayaan si Justine.” Jed sounds assuring.
Two days? Justine, here at our house? Nakaramdam ako nang saya dahil maalagaan
namin ni Jed si Justine ng magkasama but part of me was annoyed. Why? Because
Justine was the fruit of their mistake. Jed’s mistake. And he is the one who
reminds me how miserable I am before. At nahihirapan ako.
*****
Justine was fast as sleep in our bed room. Jed and I were guarding him in both
sides of the bed room. I glance up at this little innocent boy as he sleeps. He was
so cute and innocent not know how cruel the world was for him.
I places my hand on Justine’s side and taps it gently. Then my fingers run through
his hair gently. I wish he was my own son... I wish I was his mother.
Jed suddenly held out my hand. I look at him, he looks so worried. I smile at him.
“Look at Justine...” I said as I look back at this sleeping little boy. “He was
surely having a good sleep. Ang saya-saya niya kanina as we walk at the park and
play there.” I narrated.
“Leila...” his tone, it sounds he was hurt. I gaze at him. His eyes... so full of
worriedness and sadness. I can’t bare it to look at. “I’m sorry... I am really
sorry for all this. I feel like I don’t deserve to be loved by you... a kind
hearted woman like you. I am not deserve for your love.”
Until now, he was feeling guilty and sorry for everything. Few moments of silence,
I don’t want to talk. I just wanted to hear him... his pain.
“I have tried for so many times to make you happy... but the moment I was able to
accomplish it... it suddenly ruined and make you even more miserable... I am hating
myself for making you feel that way. I know, sobra-sobra na ‘tong mga kasalanan ko
sa’yo. And yet...” he looks at me.
His eyes met mine. He was so serious. “You are still here making a stand against
me. Making me stronger to face the problems. You are my strength Leila. You are my
light.”
He planted sweet kiss on my hand. I smile at him.
“You don’t have to worry about me Jed... trust me, I am more stronger than before.
I am capable of facing these fears in me... because I am with you. and if how many
times I cry because of you... trust me, it was all vanished by the happiness I am
feeling right now with you. right now how you making me feel so much love and I am
very pleased with it Jed...” I look at Justine. I sigh deeply. And turns my looks
back at him.
He was staring at me. “But to be honest with you Jed... sobrang nasaktan ako nang
malaman kong may anak kayo ni Amanda. It was something like haven’t give to you. it
was like... pakiramadam ko nawalan na ako nang karapatang magkaroon nang anak
sa’yo. And every time I see Justine, part of me was hurt. It feels like whenever I
saw him, I can feel the pain coming back at me. those miserable days... I am
feeling like miserable at some times...”
My tears automatically falls. I wipe it out quickly and smile at him. “But I have
to accept all of you... whatever it takes, because that is how much I love you... I
won’t giving up on us Jed. Hanggang sa kaya ko pang humawak. Kakapit lang ako nang
mahigpit... I will never let go... never.”
“I love you Jed...” I said as I squeeze his hand holding mine.
--------------------------------------
KINABUKASAN NG UMAGA Jed had leaves for work. Iniwan niya sa akin si Justine. I
take a good care of him. I care for him like my own son and I am enjoying things
with Justine. It feels like I’m already a mother.
By the afternoon we walk again at the park. Even though Justine still doesn’t learn
how to talk, I can see he was enjoying himself too with me.
Paburito niya ang mag padulas sa slide. He never gets tired sliding and climbing. I
found it refreshing playing with him right now.
Suddenly my phone rings. It was a call from a unknown number.
I felt weird but I answer the call.

[I didn’t know may anak ka na pala...] nanlaki ang mga mata ko. the voice is sounds
familiar.
“P-patrick?” I call out his name.
I slowly look at the side of me... revealing that man holding his phone on his ears
smiling at me. I smile back with such a huge smile. Hindi ko maitago ang
nararamdaman kong kaligayahan. I felt relieve right now that Patrick was standing
right here in front of me. Finally, I have someone to talk to... I have someone who
listens and understands me...
He waves his hand as he walks towards me. he hugs me so tight so I hug him back.
When he releases from that warm hug. He smiles at me detailing at my face.
“Mukhang tumataba ka yata Lei? Have you eaten a lot these past few days?” I blush.
I patted him on his shoulder. “That’s how you greeted me? Saying I am bloated or
something? I hate you!” I mumbled.
He laughs. Then he looks down at Justine whom I was holding at. He sighs deeply.
“I am sorry Leila Chan-Sy... I am away... thousand miles away from you... I am

sorry for not attending at your sorrow.”
So, he knows everything that happened here when he was gone? I ask to myself.
I smile at him. Telling himself to cheer up and not to worry. “Come, Let’s have
some talk in our house. We have lots of talks to do Pat. I missed you...” I said
with a sweet tone.
He smiles back. “I miss you more Lei.”
We headed back in our house together with Justine. Ipinagtimpla ko lang ng juice si
Pat since I am busy taking care of Justine.
“So, how was your business trip?” I open up the topic.

He takes a sip. And put back the glass on the table. “It was so tiring and boring.
Lots of paper works. I miss washing the dishes in our hotel. It’s way more easier
than solving those financial statements and company problems.” We both laugh.
Justine was between our seats. He was playing with his toy. “You? I heard you are
taking up culinary. It sounds great.”
“Thanks. I am about to start my class by next week. Kinakabahan nga ako eh...”
“You don’t have to. You are a one great cook! You have the skills Lei and you
should improve it.” he says and take another sip of his juice.
“How was the plans?”
“What plans?” I said as I grab Justine’s toy that falls on the floor.
“Wedding plans? I heard You and Jed are getting married. I am happy for your own
happiness Lei. And I heard Jed insisted to make reservations of your reception
place in a world class hotel.”
I giggle. “Silly Pat, are you making yourself so proud about patronizing your own
hotel? And thank you. I am very happy right now that I am getting married again
with Jed.”
He laughs a bit. “I am sure to be so proud... soon I’ll be the successor of

everything we own.” He sounded so proud. Looks like he learns how to love his life
even more.
Pat and I chat a lot of things randomly. My graduation, our anniversary, wedding
plans and such happy moments. Hanggang sa nagdesisyon na siyang umalis. Even a
single word that might get touch with the topic of Justine and Amanda... he doesn’t
talk about it. it seems like iniiwasan niyang i-brought up yung topic. He was
really here to cheer me up and make me happy.
“It’s been nice that you are finally here Pat. Are you staying here for good?” I
asks as I lead him at the gate of our house together with Justine.
He smiles as he shrugs. “I don’t know. Maybe? Hanggang sa mapawi ang lungkot ng

best friend ko. I’ll stay... I’ll stay beside you Lei... forever and always.” He
sounds so serious with his last words.
It made my cheeks turn to red. But I have quickly restored back. I smile at him.
“Thank you for staying at my side Pat. I am always grateful for your support on
me. I have missed you so much, best friend.”
He placed his one hand on my head and mess my hair. “I missed you more...”
He leans a bit and wave his hands at Justine, smiling. “Good bye little boy. It’s
nice to see you. take care of Lei okay?” then he pinches Justine’s cheeks.
And he leaves the gate and walks away. I watch him from his back.
I sigh feeling relived that Pat was already here. Finally, I have someone whom I
can talk to.
“Mama...”
My jaw drops as I hear Justine talks. My heart felt so happy hearing these little
angel speaks. He calls me Mama... pakiramdam ko tuloy ako talaga ang totoo niyang
ina.
We went inside and wait for Jed’s arrival. When he came sinabi ko sa kanya na
nagsalita si Justine. And like me, he was so happy. I am feeling blessed when
Justine came in our lives kahit na papano. He was like an angel. A special gift
that God had given to us.
Kahit na alam kong hindi ako ang tunay niyang ina, I still want to be part of his
life. I wanted to be a good mother to Justine. Pakiramdam ko tuloy ngayon, isa
kaming masayang pamilya.
This is my happiness. Jed’s happiness.
Kahit na sabihin ng iba na nagpapakatanga na ako sa pagmamahal ko sa asawa ko.

Hindi parin nawawala ang pagmamahal ko sa kanya. And I’ll do anything for him.
Kahit mabigat sa loob ko, seeing him happy makes me happy. And that’s enough for
me... as long I can still handle things.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------
If you truly love that person, you’ll do everything just to make him happy.
Even if the thing that can make him happy can cause you too much pain.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------
Anne's Letter: HI GUYS! I MISSED YOUUUUUUUU! SORRY PO TALAGA! Sorry for my oh-so-
slow-updates. Sobrang busy po kasi ngayon sa school. Puro major na po kasi ang
subjects ko and I need to focus on my studies kaya patawarin niyo po ako! >____<
Anyways, THANK YOU dahil hindi kayo nagsasawa sa paghihintay sa update ko. THANK
YOU sa mga COMMENTS. THANK YOU sa mga VOTES. THANK YOU sa mga nag ADD sa RL nila
nang story nito. THANK YOU TALAGA SA INYONG LAHAT! My list of thanks will never
end!
Sinong Accountancy ang course sa inyo? I AM SO PROUD OF YOU GUYS! LET'S BE PROUD SA
MGA COURSES NATIN! FIGHTING WATER PROOFS! \^_____^/
I HOPE YOU LIKE THE UPDATE FOR NOW.
GOD BLESS~!
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 21
Chapter 21:
“Leila... babe, wake up. Breakfast is ready.” Jed’s voice is like a heaven into my
ears.
Is it morning already? I still want to sleep. Jed’s keep on whispering on my ears.

It tickles me but I can still manage to control my grin face. I can feel the warm
sunlight on my face.
I can feel his lips touches my forehead. “Wake up babe.”
Slowly, I open my eyes. Kung si Jed lang naman ang parating bumubungad sa akin
tuwing umaga, what more can I ask for?
He was smiling at me beneath the sunlight. “Good morning baby.” He greets. I smile
back and he kisses me on my forehead once again.
“Good morning...” greeted him back as sit from bed.
Inalalayan niya ako sa pagsandal sa edge ng kama as he sits beside me.
“How are you feeling now?” he sounds so worried.
I smile at him making him assurance that I am fine. Kahapon kasi nahihilo ako.
Pakiramdam ko napakabigat ng katawan ko. I am feeling sick the whole day.
“I am fine Jed, hindi mo na kailangang magalala pa. Thank you for taking care of me
yesterday.”
Nahihiya ako kay Jed dahil hindi siya pumasok kahapon dahil inalagaan niya ako
buong araw.
“That’s my duty.” He holds my hand kiss it. “Now, eat. Para magkaroon ka ng
energy.”
Kinuha niya yung tray ng pagkain sa may side table and place it on my lap. Another
breakfast in bed made by Jed. I am sure na mauubos ko ang pagkain ko because Jed
cooks it for me.
“Aren’t you go to work?” I scolded him as I finish eating. He takes away the tray
on my lap and puts it back on the side table.
“No I am not. I want to take care of you hanggang sa gumalang ka na. are you still
feeling sick?” he asks.
The truth is, I am still feeling sick. Pakiramdam ko ang bigat ng katawan ko as if
I have done lots of things lately. Yesterday I puke and feeling so sick. But I
don’t wanted to be a burden to him. Ayokong maging pabigat sa kanya.
“No, I am feeling fine Jed. Please, go to work.” He held my hand and kisses my
knuckles.
“Okay, if you say so...” I smile feeling relive.
Suddenly, I feel like my stomach is blowing up. I gasp my stomach and my mouth
trying to cover it. I am really feeling about to explode.
Jed looks at me worriedly. “What’s wrong Leila?” he looks like uneasy.
I am really getting to puke again. “I need to go to the bathroom.” I say and run as
fast as I can.
I finally releases my stomach pain. I puke. I didn’t realize sinundan na pala ako
ni Jed sa loob ng banyo. He was supporting at my back as I release this indifferent
kind of feeling.
“I think we should go to the doctor. Baka kung ano na yang nangyayari sayo.” He
said worriedly as I finally recovers.
I wash my face. And pump the face towel on my face. Jed gazes at me, he seems
really determined about it. But I have my own determination of making him going to
work.
I smile at him as I cupped his face. “Yes, okay. We’ll be going to the doctor today
but please... go to work.”
Jed sighs. He hugs me... so tight. Feeling that I am secured. “Okay, I’ll go to
work.”
I smile at his back. “I’ll just go there at the office later.” He kisses my head
softly.
I clean the house and I am already feeling tired. Body feels like in pain and I am
hardly can’t breathe at all. I check the time and it was 10:30 already kaya nagayos
na ako. I promise I’ll be at his office around 11:30 so that sabay kaming mag
lunch.
I was about to leave the house when suddenly someone rings the doorbell. Laking
gulat ko nang makita ko si Pat na iniluwa ng gate.
“Pat!” I open the gate widely for him. “Why are you here?” gulat kong sabi.
He smiles at me genuinely. He hugs me so I hug him back.
After that hug scene he smiles at me as he held my hands. “Let’s go out for lunch!
My treat!”
I felt guilty. I can’t just take him for granted. Kadarating lang niya and I wanted
to have a good time with my best friend. I sigh deeply. I am between in a
situation.
“What’s wrong Lei? May lakad ka ba ngayon?” he asks.
I smile awkwardly. Nahihiya ako kay Pat.
“I’ll be heading at Jed’s office. We’re having lunch and then we’re going at a
clinic for some check-up.”
I can see that he looks down. I can’t let him feel like this. I sigh once again.
Kinuha ko yung phone ko mula sa hand bag na hawak ko. I dialled Jed’s number.
I told him na hindi kami magkakasabay mag lunch and I’ll be at his office after
lunch. I told him na kasama ko si Pat. He seems okay about it. Hindi rin daw siya
makakasabay sa akin mag lunch dahil may unexpected lunch meeting siya together with
the new investors at the company.
Pat and I headed at his car. He rolls the car and we went outside the village.
“Where are we going?” I ask as we headed the road.
I look at him, he smiles as his eyes were on focus at the road. “Some place that
can make you happy.”
I frown as he let the words. I don’t get what he said. I just ignored it and look
at the view on my window.
We stop at a tall building. A really tall building.

Nang makapasok na kami sa loob, employees greeted Pat as if he was the owner of the
building. Then suddenly, my eyes shift into him having this great curiosity on my
mind.
“Patrick, do you own this place?” he smiles but not looking at me.
We continue to walk as we reach the elevator. He press the number 20—it’s 20th
floor where we are going I guess. I am still looking at him waiting for his answer.
He finally looks at me. “Yes, I own this place.”
I was amused. He really has setting his mind into business.
He places his both hands on his side pocket of his pants. “I manage to build this
mula sa ipon ko. I am the owner of this place. This is my own business.”
He sounds so cool.
“So, what this place offers to the people?”
“Well, everything.” He really sound so cool. As if I am a reporter asking about

this new building of his. “You see Lei, we have 20 floors in this building. I
decided to build a mall at first... but then change of plans... I wanted to
showcase something to people. Yung tipong lahat ng kailangan nila nasa isang
building na.” he looks at me and smirk. “I thought this was impossible... but hell,
I have one now.”
I look up at him and smile telling him that he really did it.
“You see...” he points out the button number 1. It means the first floor. “From the
first floor to fourth floor you can go shopping. Everything that a mall has... we
have it here.” He now points the fifth floor. “From fifth floor to eleventh floor
is the place where you can stay for a night or make reservations.” He bends his
head from one side of the corner. “That is the business I have lived for years with
my parents. For the twelve to fifteenth floor it was all about beauty and health.
Salon, fitness, sports... we have it here. The sixteenth to seventeenth floor are
for game lovers. Arcade and such. The eighteenth floor and nineteenth were food
court island...” he explains.
“Ano namang mayroon sa 20th floor?”
He glance at me and grin. “You’ll see for yourself, Lei.”
The elevator opens. My heart lifts as I see the view. It seems like a roof top but
it was not... exactly the roof top. The view was majestic. Napaka lakas ng hangin
dahil open siya. It has roof yet it’s windowless and there are a lot of tables and
chairs. I think it was a restaurant.
“Surprise. This is my very own resto.” We walk towards a table and sit.
“This is amazing Pat! But why is it on the 20th floor?” sumandal si Jed sa upuan.
“I am planning to make this resto exclusive. Gusto ko sanang gawing seasonal ang
open ng floor na ‘to. I wanted it to be open for sales and promotions. Beside, yung
chef ng resto na to—my partner in this business will seems to be very busy and I
want her not take this full hand.”
“Then I should met that chef of yours.”
I leans forward and smile as he place his one arm on the table. Placing his head to
one side supporting by his hand he grins wider.
“Actually, she’s standing in front of me right now.” I blush.
“Oh my gosh Pat! Don’t tell me?” don’t tell me it was me!? I give him that kind of
look.
Pat nods as he smile. “Yes! I would do it! I am happy to be your partner in this
business Pat!”
“Talaga? Well that’s great! All we need now is to wait for a couple of months na
kumpleto yung mga stalls and yung mga documents na kailangan ko... and we’re off
for the launching of this building.”
I am so happy right now. Hindi ako makapaniwala na magiging part ako nito... ng
business ni Pat. It was an honor for me.
“I am so happy for you Pat.” I said as I held his hand.
“Thank you. For now, let’s have our lunch here.”
Pat and I ate lunch. It was very refreshing there. And I can’t wait to be part of
it. Sabi ni Patrick baka daw by December mag bukas ang Tan Commercial Bldg. I am so
happy for Pat. Now he is getting close to his dream. We discuss about the future
plans of the restaurant... the dishes we’ll serve and the settings.
We drive back. Pat insist na ihatid niya ako sa office ni Jed, besides hindi pa
sila nagkikita simula nang umuwi si Pat dito sa Pilipinas.
“How was tita and Fei?” he asks.
We’re still on the road. We are almost on the way to Jed’s office.
“Nasa France sila ngayon. Mama decided na mag karoon sila ng mother and daughter
bonding ni Fei. It was also Fei’s graduation gift.”
“Really? Wow, ang bilis ng panahon. Graduate na pala si Fei. So anong course ang
it-take daw niya?” Pat’s tone sounds really surprise. They were closed back then.
How good it is to reminisce the old times.
I shrug. “I don’t know. Hindi pa daw niya kasi alam kung ano ba talaga ang gusto
niya. Before she wanted to take business ad. Because of Papa but now that he’s gone
nawalan na daw siya ng inspiration para i-take pa yon.”
Pat chuckles. “You know what, Fei and I were close when were child. I played roll
playing with her sometimes and we always play doctor. I was the doctor and she was
my assistant nurse.” He glances at me. “And Jed was the patient. I can’t believe na
naglaro kami ng roll playing nung bata ni Jed just because Fei won’t stop crying
until we play with her.”
We both laugh.
“I can’t believe that Pat! Samantalang takot si Fei sa dugo.” I look at him, his
expression becomes impassive.
“Fei wants to be a nurse back then... kaso may nangyaring masama kaya...” he looks
at me and smile. “Let’s just forget it. It’s in the past...”
I just nod. Yes, let’s just forget the past... I said to myself. I sigh as I look
at the window. Yes, let’s just be happy for what we have right now.
Siguro dapat na lang muna akong mag focus sa kung anong meron ako ngayon... I won’t
gonna let go of Jed just because of his issues. Jed’s issues are also my issues.
Para saan pa ang title kong Mrs Leila Chan-Sy kung isusuko ko na lang si Jed nang
basta-basta. Nakakapagod man ‘tong ginagawa kong pagpapahirap sa sarili ko but this
pain is my happiness.
Jed is my pain and yet he is my happiness.
Patrick puts me down at the front of the main building.
“Mauna ka na sa office ni Jed. I’ll go park my car first.” I just nod at him at
pumasok na ako sa loob.
Every employee greats me as I pass through them. I went on the elevator and press
the button up to Jed’s office. When I came there, I didn’t see his secretary. I
guess they still on the meeting. Dire-diretsyo akong naglakad papunta sa pintuan ng
office.
Sa pagbukas ko ng pintuan, agad na bumagsak ang mga luha ko.
Nabitawan ko pa yung hawak kong bag. It cause distraction all over the corners of
the room. Nanlalambot ang buo kong katawan. It feels like I wanted to disappear at
this moment. Nanghihina ako yet it feels like I have gathered all my patience and
it suddenly spill over.
Yung puso ko... punong-puno na... ganoon ang pakiramdam ko ngayon.
Jed looks at me... his eyes were wide and really shock. And that girl, Amanda...
giving me that I-won-the-game look.
Pinunasan ko ang mga luha ko at naglakad papalapit sa kanilang dalawa.
I slap Jed so hard on his face. Not only once but twice.
Nangingilid ang mga luha ko. “Jed! Bakit mo naman ginawa sa akin ‘to?! how could
you do this to me?!” I scream out habang hinahapas ko siya sa dibibdib niya.
Jed attempts to hold my wrist. But I push him away. “Please Jed... I can’t take
this anymore...” I wipe my tears and face him. “Akala ko kaya kong tiisin lahat...
pero masakit parin...” I placed my right hand on my chest. “Masakit parin Jed...
sobrang sakit... sobra mo akong sinaktan...”
I glance at Amanda. “Masaya ka na siguro ngayon...” I smile at her.A fake oneto

hide my tears...
“Now you won... pinapalaya ko na si Jed... sayong-sayo na siya...”
Naglakad ako palayo ng room na ‘yon hanggang sa na realize ko na lang na nasa labas
na pala ako ng building... naglalakad at wala sa sarili. All I can do right now is
cry and walk away from all of these.
I feel betrayed... I feel so hurt... pakiramdam ko namatay ako.
Seeing Jed kissing that girl in his office. Akala ko wala na talagang feelings si
Jed kay Amanda.
I was such a fool believing him in every word he says. I’m a fool been crazy and
madly in love with Jed... ilang years na rin... akala ko kaya niya akong mahalin...
hindi parin pala.
Now, I end up being miserable... much miserable than before.
I allow myself to believe na may chance pa kami ni Jed. But it all just a dream...
wala bang totoo sa mga ‘yon?
I realize malayo na pala ang nalakad ko from the building. I can see people looking
at me as I pass them. Maybe because I keep on crying as I walk alone habang tirik
ang araw.
My tears keeps my sight getting blurred. I can feel my head is swirling...
Parang unti-unting Nanghihina ang buo kong tawan at nagdidilim ang paningin ko...
------------------------------------------------
The most expensive thing in this world is TRUST.
It can take years to earn and only a matter of seconds to LOSE.

-------------------------------------------------
I'M SOOOO SORRY GUYS! SUPERRR LATE UPDATES AS EVER! >____<
super busy po kasi talaga sa school. May project kasi akong tinatapos and it serves
as half quiz sa isa kong major subjct >____< Kaya sorry po talaga dun sa mga nagc-
comment ng ud, bitin, etc. Sabi nga po nila "Lahat ng story ay bitin hanggat wala
pang ending" :) kaya ayun! Sana magustuhan niyo po ang super late ud ko.
Pagpasensyahan niyo na... yan lang ang kinaya ko ngayon. --____-- sabaw na utak ko
sa pagt-type ng FS. Malapit na kasi submission >___<
THANK YOU sa lahat ng nag VOTE, COMMENT, at naisipan pa akong i-FOLLOW! Hehehe.
SORRY di ako maka-reply sa mga comments niyo. Ang bagal kasi ng net. --____--
God bless~!
ChecheAnne~ <3
=================
Chapter 22
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IG: annecernardo
Twitter: @AnnCernardo
hahaha! Follow & add niyo ko kung trip niyo lang. :DD PM or mag post lang kayo ng
message kung gusto niyong i-follow back ko kayo. Para alam kong wattpader pala
kayo. Hihihihihi! ~.<V
Palala: hindi po ako active ngayon sa FB, sa IG mejo, lalong hindi rin po ako
active sa twitter. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! xDDD ~.<V
SORRY Matagal po akong mag update. I read all your comments. Pero may mas important
things pa po akong kailangang gawin bukod sa pagsusulat. Sana po maintindihan niyo.
BUT THANK YOU SA LAHAT NG COMMENTS, VOTES, SA LAHAT NG NAG BABASA AT IN-ADD PA NILA
SA RL NILA. SA MGA NAG FOLLOW. AYUN! MARAMING-MARAMING SALAMAT! Sana magustuhan
niyo 'to.
PS: Lahat ng story na wala pang ending ay laging bitin. :"> yan lang po masasabi ko
sa mga comments na "bitin" ^______^
God bless~!
~ChecheAnne :">
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 22:
[Third Person’s POV]
“CL, please take this back to the accounting department...” utos ni Jed sa kanyang
secretary.
Agad naman nitong Kinuha ang iniabot na folder ni Jed at lumabas na ng office. Jed
looks at his wrist watch. It’s almost 1:30 and yet wala parin si Leila.
He can’t help himself but to worry about his wife even though he knows Leila was
with his best friend—Patrick. He was patiently waiting at his swivel chair nang
biglang may kumatok.
Akala ni Jed ay ang asawa na ito. But to surprised him it was unexpected to see
Amanda.
Napatayo siya sa kinauupuan niya. Amanda walks towards him smiling.
“A-amanda? What are you doing here?” Jed said when he finally recovers his shock.
“I just wanted to visit my husband...” she leans on the table.

She wears a black blazer and pencil skirt with white spaghetti sando matching her
black pumps.
“Your husband?” pagtatakang tanong ni Jed.
Amanda smirks at him and walks even more closer to him. Naglakad si Amanda
papalapit kay Jed at inilapat ang mga kamay sa balikat nito. She walks around him
as her hands were stick into Jed’s shoulders.
“Hindi ba?” Jed removes her hands.
“Silly Amanda, I am never been your husband.”
“Really?” Amanda raises her right eyebrow. She crosses her arms and looks directly
at Jed.
“Yes!” Jed seems to be irritated by Amanda’s presence. He runs his hand through his
hair. “Amanda... please stop this. Stop ruining our lives!”
“No I am not Jed.” Jed looks at him and then run his hand through his face.
“Kinukuha ko lang ang dapat na sa akin Jed... both of us know inagaw ka lang ni
Leila sa akin nung wala ako...” her tone became very pity. It seems like Amanda was
begging.
Jed steps back and run his hands again through his hair. “No Amanda... right from
the start hindi mo ako pagmamay-ari... you know that!”
“Jed, please... I am begging you... come back to me...” she walks towards him.
Inilapat muli ni Amanda ang mga kamay ni sa balikat ni Jed. “Diba dapat hihiwalayan
mo na si Leila? nandito na ako ngayon Jed... please, hiwalayan mo na si Leila...”
pagmamakaawa nito.
Jed keeps on putting Amanda’s hands off from him. “Amanda... please... stop this
craziness. Between you and me... it was long over. Leila... I love her... I love
her more than my life. Hindi ako mabubuhay nang wala siya... ikamamatay ko...”
Amanda starts to cry. Pilit niyang ikinukulong si Jed sa kanyang yakap. Jed keeps
on refusing but she keeps on pushing herself to him.
“Jed please... love me back... love me again...”
Jed gently push her away from him. “I’m sorry Amanda... but it was... I can’t
anymore... I have a family to build now...”
Amanda’s anger got burst. She once again puts her hands on Jed’s shoulders.
“Hindi naman kayo maituturing na pamilya ni Leila kasi wala kayong anak! Ako! Tayo!
Jed! May anak tayo! Tayo ang tunay na pamilya!” she was now uncontrolled.
Pinaghahahampas niya si Jed sa dibdib. “Bakit ba hindi mo na ako kayang mahalin?

Ano bang ginawa niya sayo? What did she do to make you change like this?” Amanda is
in full madness.
“Amanda...” Jed’s voice was calm. “Leila didn’t do anything... all she did was to
love me unconditionally... and that’s the reason why I realize kung gaano ako ka-
tanga para hindi ko pansinin ‘yon.”
“Jed...” her voice was full of tears. She hugs him once more as if she don’t wanna
let go of him anymore. “Please love me... love me again...”
Jed takes a deep breath. “Amanda... it’s over between us.”
She cups his face. “Please... tell me... kahit minsan ba na wala ako... naisip mo
ba ako? Minahal mo ba ako?”
Jed closes his eyes. As he opens it again he sighs. “Yes Minahal kita noon... noong
umalis ka, akala ko wala nang nagmamahal sa akin... but Leila--”
“Set aside Leila... you love me Jed... I know you do...” inch by inch Amanda pulls
Jed’s face closer to her. “I know you still love me...”
“Amanda--”
Jed didn’t even finish his last words. Amanda suddenly claims his lips.
It was a kiss that Amanda has been longed for. Amanda keeps on kissing Jed even
though he didn’t respond from it.
It was hard for Jed not to be tempt... but I guess lahat siguro ng kalalakihan ay
hindi nakakaiwas sa tukso.
Jed wraps his arms on her waist and kiss her back. Tukso ang nangibabaw sa bandang
huli.

I’m sorry Leila...
Jed tearfully said into his mind. As he sees his wife on his mind... tila natauhan
si Jed sa kasalanang ginagawa niya.
But before he can defend himself from the temptation... it was too late for him.
Gulat na gulat si Jed nang makita si Leila na nakatayo sa pintuan. Leila have
caught the two kissing... betraying her by her own husband.
It was as if Jed became a stone and couldn’t move from where he was standing.
It was a big mistake that he himself couldn’t even forgive...
*****
“Damn it!” Jed screams as he throws the glass of beer on the floor.
“Dude! Stop! Wag ka naman dito mag wala sa bar ko oh!” suway ni Spencer sa
kaibigan.
Jed suddenly cries out. He cries out for Leila’s name as he leans his head down.
“I didn’t mean it...” he keeps on repeating it. “I didn’t mean to hurt her... I
never wanted her hurting.”
Umupo si Spencer sa tabi ni Jed. He pats his shoulder trying to comfort his friend—
Jed.
“Pare.” Inakbayan niya si Jed at Kinuha ang beer na inilagay ng waiter sa table.
“Kasalanan mo ‘yun. Nagpadala ka sa tukso eh!”
Jed lifts his head and looks at his friend. Napailing-iling naman si Spencer as he
puts down the glass.
“Bakit ka ba nag-padala ha? pre?”
Jed runs off his hands to his hair. “I don’t know... but... but I was about to push
her when I saw Leila standing there! Seeing her crying again...”
“Mahal na mahal mo nga talaga ang asawa mo.”
“Yes, I love her... I’ll love her until the last breath I’ll breath.”
“Eh si Amanda? May natitira pa bang pagmamahal jan sa puso mo?”
Napailing-iling si Jed. “Dude, Amanda’s in my past... Yes I loved her... I loved

her before but now... it’s different. Siguro kung may feelings pa ko ngayon para
kay Amanda, hindi na ‘yon sa kanya kundi sa anak namin.”
“What does Justine looks like?” Spencer asks.
Kunot noong tumingin si Jed kay Spencer. He is now calm. Jed smiles as he thinks of
his son.
“He’s cute like Leila always says. He’s the only thing that is right in everything
that is happening to me.”
“Are you sure Justine was your son?”
“Dude ano bang sinasabi mo?” pagtatakang tanong ni Jed.
Spencer shrugs as he takes the glass of beer and drinks it. “Malay mo pare... there
are a lot of possibilities.” And he empties his glass.
“Pare... mahal na mahal ko si Leila... I can’t live without her.” Napatungong sabi
ni Jed.
“Alam ko pare.” Spencer taps his friends shoulder. “You should fight dude. Don’t
give her up like that. Ipag laban mo siya kagaya ng ginawa niya...” Jed looks at
him. “It is time dude... it is your time to do something for her... to fight for
your love... iparamdam mo sa kanya na you can stay and hold on.”
*****
“Are you sure about this Lei?” Leila just nod as she was looking down with her
knotted fingers.
Pat can’t keep a sigh out of his. He kneels down and cups Leila’s face to look at
him.
She was crying... she was crying again. And it can’t help Pat not to feel angry
towards his own best friend—Jed. Puno ng kung anu-anong bagay ang utak ni Patrick.
Gusto niyang patayin si Jed ngayon. Gusto niyang gumanti para lang kay Leila. Gusto
niyang alisin lahat ng lungkot sa puso nito at palitan na lang ng masasayang
alaala.
He wipes Leila’s tears and smile. Making her reassure that she was safe by his
side. He kisses her forehead.
“Don’t worry I’ll take care of you Lei, I promise.”In that moment, nakaramdam si
Leila na ligtas siya... ligtas siya sa lahat ng sakit na nararamdaman niya.
She hug him as he hugs her. Napaka higpit ng pagkakayakap ni Leila na para bang
ayaw na niyang Bumitiw. She was badly hurt... too much hurt that she can’t even
face her own fears.
She sobs.
And before anything else, someone rings the doorbell. They were inside Pat’s room
on his condo.
“Wait, I’ll check kung sino yung nag-doorbell.” Tumayo na si Patrick at lumabas ng
kuwarto.
Sa Pagbukas niya ng pintuan, iniluwa nito si Jed na lasing na lasing; akay-akay ni

Spencer.
“I need to see Leila...” Jed was really drunk just basing on his tone. He attempts
to get inside but Pat push him away. “I need to see my wife...”
Nagpupumilit si Jed na makapasok at makita ang asawa but Pat tries to push him away
from the door.
“F*CK! I NEED TO SEE LEILA! LEILA!? LEILA! PLEASE!” sigaw ni Jed kaya naman ay
Sinuntok siya ni Patrick.
Sumalampak sa sahig si Jed gawa ng suntok ng kaibigan. “PARE TAMA NA!” Pat yelled.
He now let out of his feelings... his feelings for Leila and his deep anger with
Jed and Amanda.
Jed runs his hand through his hair and starts to cry. “Please, I need to see
Leila... we need to talk. It’s not what she thinks... Please, gusto kong makita ang
asawa ko.” pagmamakaawa ni Jed na halos gumapang na siya makapasok lang sa loob ng
condo ni Pat.
Sa kabilang banda naman ay nadinig ni Leila ang boses ni Jed. Agad siyang
nakaramdam ng mabilis na pagtibok ng puso. Kinakabahan siya. hindi niya expect na
pupunta si Jed dito sa condo ni Pat ng dis oras na ng gabi.
Dahan-dahang tumayo si Leila mula sa pagkakaupo sa kama at naglakad papalapit sa

pintuan.
She holds the knob while her other hand holding her chest. Like she was holding her
breath. And from that far distant, she can hear Jed’s tears. That manly tears who
was all for her. Wanting her to come back again.
She opens the door at nakita niya si Jed na nakasalampak sa sahig at umiiyak na
tila ba napaka miserable ng buhay nito.
When Jed suddenly feels Leila’s presence, he leans up and his face suddenly
lightens up. He felt relieve seeing his wife look so fine and nothing bad happens.
“Leila...” halos gumapang si Jed papunta sa kinatatayuan ni Leila. he was so

desperate to see his wife, so desperate to make her come back in his arms.
Leila stills as she saw her husband drunk and wasted. Acting like stupid and
vulnerable in front of her. Napayukom ng kamay ito habang tinitingnan ang kanyang
asawa. She is trying her best not to cry and overcome her fears and pain.
Jed was kneeling down in Leila’s front, holding her both hands. “Leila, please...
come home... I need you... I love you... I don’t want to lose you now... no, I
don’t want to lose you... please...” Jed’s tone was really broken, broken of tears
as he wraps his arms around his waist and hug her tightly.
Hindi matiis ni Leila ang asawa. At some point, she stills love her and that
growing love for him was hard to remove... but the pain he was given to her... it
all mixed as she feels Jed’s warmth around her. She finally broke down and cries.
“Jed, please... let’s stop this...” marahang kumalas si Jed sa pagkakayakap nito sa
kanyang asawa. They were both crying while looking at each other. No one dares to
speak up. Not even a single sound, just a shed of tears into their eyes. That tears
that tells both of them how hard their situation was.
Lumuhod rin si Leila at idinantay ang kanyang mga kamay sa balikat ng asawa.
“I love you Jed... you know that... I love you more than anything else...” Leila
cries even more. “But I have to this... for the both of us...”
Napailing-iling si Jed. “No Leila, no, no, no... please... don’t... please--”
“I have to set you free!” she screams.
Few moments of silence came. Both parties are trying to analyse the situation...
the sequence of events... Leila’s words.
Natigilan si Jed. He was just looking at Leila’s eyes when suddenly a manly tears
sheds down on him.
“Leila, please... pakinggan mo ko. nagkakamali ka--”
“Jed tama na! Please, tama na...” Leila keeps on crying. “We need to set things
right, I needed to be happy... ayoko na Jed...”
“Leila, please... no... don’t do this to me... don’t leave me...” he hugs her. She
felt her heart skips and beats so fast.
Kahit na sinaktan siya nito, still—her heart was beating only for Jed... she still
loves Jed.
“Jed please, palayaain na natin ang isa’t-isa.” Leila plead. Labag man ito sa
kalooban niya but she has to. “Akala ko kaya kong tiisin Jed. Akala ko, kaya kong
tiisin lahat... hindi pala, Nagkamali ako... napapagod din pala ako Jed... pagod na
pagod na yung puso ko... sobrang dami na ng sakit ang naranasan at naramdaman ko
sa’yo... I wanted to be happy Jed... and I guess this can make me happy...
please...”
Lalong hinigpitan pa ni Jed ang pagkakayakap nito as if ayaw na niya itong

pakawalan.
“Pre tama na yan. Ihahatid na kita sa bahay niyo...” ani Spencer.
Pilit na inaakay ni Spencer ang kaibagan pero ayaw parin nitong Bumitiw sa
pagkakayakap sa asawa. Even Leila, hindi siya makawala sa pagkakayakap ni Jed. All
she did was cry.
“Jed tama na... hayaan mo muna si Lei.” Pat utters as he help his friend na itayo
si Jed.
“No... no...” jed’s voice is really broken. Halos nilamon na ng luha nito ang boses
niya.
He still holds Leila. Pilit namang itinatayo ni Pat at Spencer si Jed.
“Please Leila, stay with me... let’s go home...” pagmamakaawa ni Jed.
Leila keeps on crying. Sobrang nahihirapan and at the same time ay nasasaktan.
Nangingibabaw sa kanya ngayon ang galit kay Jed.
“Jed please, bitawan mo na ko... pakawalan mo na ko please...” she pushes her
husband gently away from her.
Both of them looks at each other’s eyes. Both were crying and in sorrow.
Leila wipes her husband’s tears and smile. She cups his face and presses her
forehead on his. Feeling that moment... that very moment she was holding his
husband.
“I love you Jed... I love you more than anything else...” tears starts to fall
again into her eyes. “But I have to set you free...” mahirap para kay Leila ang
desisyon niya. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath.
Looking directly at Jed’s eyes, makikita mo sa mga mata ni Leila ang katapangan at
lakas ng loob. Kahandaan para sa mga bibitawan niyang salita.
“Mag hiwalay na tayo...”
Tila biglang nanghina si Jed. Bumitiw ito sa pagkakahawak kay Leila.
“Bro.” mahinang sabi ni Spencer to cut the silence. Huminga siya ng malalim at
Napailing-iling habang napatingin naman si Jed sa kaibigan. “Let’s go.”
Katulong ni Spencer si Patrick sa pagalalay sa kaibigan na tumayo. They escorted

him palabas ng condominium. Nang maisara na ni Patrick ang pintuan ay agad na
Humagulgol muli ng iyak si Leila. Tila sinaksak siya sa puso. Para bang hindi siya
makahinga at may malaking butas ito.
She uses her hands to cover her face. Masakit man sa kanya ngunit kailangan niyang
palayaain ang taong mahal niya para sa ikasasaya nilang dalawa.
Nang makabalik na si Patrick sa loob ng condo ay umiiyak parin si Leila.
Agad siyang Nilapitan ni Pat at niyakap. Tapping her back gently Leila surrenders
and cries even more.
“Shh... you did a great job Lei. You’re a strong women.” He comforts as he taps her
head.
“I hurt him... I love him, hindi ko kayang wala siya sa tabi ko...” Leila cries.
“Tumahan ka na Lei, please... baka makasama na sayo...”
Leila keeps on crying hanggang sa makatulog siya sa balikat ni Pat. Nang makatulog
na ito ay Binuhat niya ito para ihiga sa kama. He covers her with a blanket.
Hindi mapigilan ni Patrick na hindi pagmasdan ang mahimbing at maamong mukha ni

Leila habang natutulog. Looking at her sleeping makes him think how hurt it was for
her friend—for the one he loved. Lalo lang niyang naramdaman sa kaibuturan ng
kanyang puso ang matitinding galit para sa best friend niyang si Jed at sa
kaibigang si Amanda.
It makes him prove that he was the right one for Leila. Yung lalaking hindi siya
sasaktan at ipaparamdam kung gaano niya ito kamahal. He wants to be the guy for
Leila who will protect her and will guard her para hindi na siya masaktan pa.
“Hindi ko alam kung bakit ba baliw na baliw ako sa’yo...” He smiles as he reminisce
the moments he has together with Leila. “Kahit na alam kong may iba diyan sa puso
mo, nandito parin ako nagpapaka gago maging night-in-shining-armour mo. Ganoon kita
kamahal Leila , sana makita mo ‘yon...”
He kisses her forehead at tumayo na mula sa pagkakaupo sa gilid ng kama. Pinatay

niya yung ilaw at lumabas na ng kuwarto.
He rest on his sofa while watching a movie nang biglang mag ring yung phone niya.
It was Steph.
“Bakit?”
[Anong bakit? Bakit mo naman Sinuntok si Jed! At bakit naman jan sa condo mo nags-
stay si Leila?]
Sa dami ng tanong na ibinato ni Steph ay napapikit na lang si Pat and runs his hand
through his hair.
“Ang dami mong tanong! Kaya ka ba tumawag para lang tanungin ako ng mga ganyang
bagay?” Halata sa boses ni Pat ang pagkainis.
Dinig mula sa kabilang linya ang pag buntong hininga ni Steph. [Patrick naman eh!
You don’t have to interfere with their problem. It’s their problem. Wag ka namang
mag paka man of steel para kat Leila.]
He chuckles. “Ang hirap naman yata niyang sinasabi mo...” sumandal ito sa couch at
tumingala sa ceiling. “The more I am having this feelings for her, mas lalo akong
lumalakas. I wanted to guard her, I wanted to make her happy... I wanted to be with
her, kahit na gano pa ako katagal mag hintay na mapansin niya lahat ng efforts
ko... yung pagmamahal ko sa kanya. Gusto kong iparamdam sa kanya na deserve niya na
mahalin siya at maging maligaya. I wanted her to see that I am the right guy for
her... no one else but me.” he stated.
Few moments of silence came hanggang sa huminga ng malalim si Patrick.
“Mali ba yung gusto kong mangyari Steph?”
[Pat--]
“Alam kong mali pero ang kung ang pagkakamaling ‘to ang way... then be it. I’ll
take my chances. Yung chance na sinayang ni Jed. Ako ang magpupuno ng lahat ng
kakulangan ni Jed.”
Steph sigh once again. [You really love her, don’t you?]
Patrick smiles as he hear the thought. “Yeah, call me crazy. But I am crazily in
love with her. Hindi ko alam kung bakit pero siya lang talaga ang nilalaman nitong
puso ko. Siya lang yung mamahalin ko habang buhay... wala nang iba pa...”
[Really?] bakas sa tono ni Steph na umiiyak siya. napakunot naman si Pat ng noo.
“Steph are you crying?” pagaalala nito sa kaibigan.
But Steph hangs up.
Nagtataka si Patrick na may halong pagaalala sa kaibigan but his attention was more
on focus about Leila. Gusto niyang ilayo si Leila sa lugar na ‘yon. Gusto niyang
ilayo si Leila mula kay Jed.
*****
“Are you sure about this Lei?” Pat asks Leila.
Nasa loob sila ngayon ng kotse. Leila look at him and sigh. She smiles and nod at
him.
“Yes, buo na ang desisyon ko Pat. Please, ilayo mo na ko dito... malayo kung saan
hindi ako makikita ni Jed... yung hindi ko mararamdaman yung presence niya.”
Patrick starts the engine. “I’ll take care of you...”
Sa kabilang banda naman ay kagigising lang ni Jed. Sobrang sakit ng ulo nito at ang
tanging unang pumasok sa isip niya ay ang asawa niyang si Leila.
He looks at his surrounding, wala siya sa bahay.
“Pare, eto gamot pampawala ng sakit ng ulo mo.” Sabay abot ni Spencer ng gamot at
isang basong tubig.
Ininom ito ni Jed. He place the glass on the table and run his hand through his
hair.
“Pare, I need to see Leila. I want her back... hindi ko kayang wala siya.” bakas sa
mata ni Jed ang pangungulila nitokay Leila.
Napakamot ng ulo si Spencer habang nakatingin ito kay Jed. “Pare... kasi...”
Hindi maintindihan ni Jed ang gustong ipahiwatig ng kaibigan. Kunot noong

nakatingin ito sa kanya.
“Ano ba ‘yon?” Jed asks.
“Ngayon na yung flight ni Pat and Leila papuntang Cebu. Siguro papunta na silang
airport ngayon.”
Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Jed at biglang hinablot ang collar ng kaibigan. “Bakit
ngayon mo lang sinabi?” galit na tanong ni Jed.
Napakamot nanaman ng ulo si Spencer. “Eh ngayon ka lang nagising eh! Besides,
kakasabi lang ni Pat kanina na kasama niya si Leila sa Cebu.”
Dali-daling lumabas ng condo ni Spencer si Jed. Agad silang Sumakay sa sasakyan at

pumunta ng airport.
“Pare wala na bang ibibilis ‘tong sasakyan mo?” ani Jed na di mapakali sa
kinauupuan niya.
“G*go ka ba pre? Sports car kaya ‘tong gamit natin! Wag ka ngang mag panic. Baka
maaksidente tayo nito dahil sa sobrang pressure eh!” pressured na sabi ni Spencer
habang minamaneho ang sariling sasakyan.
Hindi mapakali si Jed. Sobrang kinakabahan siya. natatakot siyang hindi na nila
maabutan pa si Leila at Pat. He wanted to save their marriage. He wanted her to
come back. Ayaw niyang mawala sa kanya si Leila.
Sa kabilang banda naman ay nakarating na si Leila at Patrick sa airport. they were

seating at the waiting area for their flight.
“I’ll ask you once again, are you sure about this Lei?”
Leila smile at him. She looks down at her knotted fingers. “Masakit mang iwanan ko
si Jed... pero kailangan kong gawin ‘to.” she looks at Pat and smile. “I need to
stay away from him and live my life again...”
Pat places his hands on hers. “I promise Lei, I’ll make you happy. Hinding-hindi
kita sasaktan.”
He hugs her and plant soft little kisses on her hair.
“I wanted to forget everything, pero kahit anong galit ko kay Jed... mahal na mahal
ko parin siya...” napaiyak muli si Leila.
Hinigpitan pa lalo ni Patrick ang pagkakayakap nito kay Leila. “I promise, I won’t
gonna let you cry.”
*****
“P*t@ng*na! di mo ba kayang sumingit jan!?” iritableng tanong ni Jed.
Napakamot muli ng ulos si Spencer. “Pare kita mo namang traffic diba? Anong gusto
mong gawin ko? banggain lahat ng kotse sa harapan?”
Jed runs his hand through his hair once more. Jed try to call Leila’s phone pero
out of coverage ito. “SH*T!”
Nang makarating na sila sa airport ay agad-agad nilang tinanong yung flight

papuntang Cebu.
Naiwan si Jed na nakaupo sa waiting area. He was so stress and worried. Natatakot
siyang mawala na sa kanya nang tuluyan si Leila.
Spencer suddenly taps his shoulder. Napatingin si Jed sa kaibigan. Napa kunot ng
noo si Jed sa facial expression nito. Umiling-iling ito.
Tila ba bigla na lang nawalan ng lakas si Jed. Unti-unting tumulo ang luha niya.
Pakiramdam niya ngayon ay namatay na siya, nawalan ng buhay...
“Pare, nakaalis na daw yung flight papuntang Cebu.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
You’ll never know how important to you a person
Once that someone was out of your life...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
=================
NOT AN UPDATE. BUT IMPORTANT ONE
Hey guys! I'm not totally back. I just find some time to post here...
Fisrt of all, I'm really sorry dahil almost 3 months na kong di nag update. It's
really a busy year for me. Madaming school activities and focus ako ngayon sa
studies ko. Wala na talaga akong time para mag sulat as of now T^T
Second, my one and only laptop was broken. :(( di ako makapag ud nang hindi yun ang
gamit ko. Maarte na kung maarte pero yun talaga yung laptop na nakasanayan ko.
HAHA! Buhay ko yun. Ipagpapalit ko ang love life ko para dun, XD
Third, halos major subjects na yung mga subjects ko. Puro sila accounting. HUHU,
dumudugo na utak ko. T^T
Lastly, may other activities din kasi akong pinagkakaabalahan sa school bukod sa
studies ko. HAHA! Student Council Officer kasi ako ngayon sa school. Akalain niyo?
Haha! Mejo mahirap yung gawain ng isang officer sa school. Events, plataporma,
kapakanan ng school and co-students mo... ganern! HAHA! Pero kidding aside mahirap
po talaga. Sobrang hating-hati ang oras ko. :((
I am waiting right now for my laptop to be fixed and as soon as it's done I'll be
back here.
See you soon guys!
Magaral na ang dapat magaral! Haha! Wag puro basa ha?
I love you all~!
Wag kayong mag alala, nababasa ko lahat ng comments niyo. HAHA! THANK YOU SA INYONG
LAHAT NA DI KO ALAM KUNG BAKIT HOOKED SA STORY NA 'TO. <3 <3
God bless
Love lots,
ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 23
Chapter 23
A/N:Hi guysss! I'm back! :DD
I have a question and please leave your comment about it:
hmmm, since dumadami na tayo... Ano kayang magandang tawag sa mga readers ng
TMW? :)
Kung sino ang may pinaka magandang title and reason, I'll dedicate the next update
to that person. =))
————————————
Minsan, may mga pagkakataon na kailangan nating lumabanpara sa kung ano ang alam
nating tama. Pero... meron rin namang mga pagkakataong dapat tayong matutong
sumuko...
Dahil sa bandang huli... tayo lang ang mahihirapan at masasaktan.
"Mommy!" I kneel down as my little angel run towards me.
I reach her with a big hug as I lifted her in my arms. I kiss her on her cheeks.
Naglakad na kami papuntang parking area.
"How's your first day at school?" I asked her as we walk towards the car.
"It was great! Look mommy! Teacher gave me a star!" she was so proud as she showed
me her knuckles with stamp marks with the shapes of star.
I smile at her with proud and joy. "Very good, Sabrina. What do you want as a
reward, honey?"
I open the door for her and put her bag on the back seat.
"I want to go to the Amusement Park Mommy!" she says as I get into the car.
"Amusement Park? Why so honey?" I asked as I start the engine.
"My classmate told me, they went to that Park with lots of fireworks... Mommy, I
want to go there with Daddy!" she pleaded.
I glance at her. "Sige. I'll ask your Daddy. He's coming home today for your
birthday!"
Her eyes sparkles as I finished my sentence. "Yeay! Daddy's coming home today!"
Nakarating na kami ng bahay. Pagkapatay ko ng makina ay bigla nang bumaba si

Sabrina at dali-daling tumakbo papasok ng bahay.
"Careful honey! Baka madapa ka!" I warned her.
Agad naman akong sinalubong ni Manang Sally. "Good afternoon po ma'am!" bati niya
sa akin.
I smile at her as I reach out Sabrina's bag. "Nanjan na po ba siya?"
"Opo ma'am. Kanina pa po si Sir sa loob."
Sa main door, dinig na dinig ko ang boses ng anak ko habang tinatawag niya ang
Daddy niya.
"Daddy? Daddy? Where are you?"

My little angel keeps on looking at the living room. Then she finally notice her
Daddy's head at the corner of the big vase.
"I found you!" she screams.
"Hi my little princess!" He lifted her. She plants kisses on her Daddy's cheeks.
"I miss you Daddy!" she says as she hugs him.
"I miss you too princess!"
He looks at me and smile. I smile back as I watch them. They really missed each
other.
"Hi My Queen." He directs at me.
I smile as I walk towards them. He kissed me on my forehead.
"I miss you Daddy! Let's go out and play!" aya ni Sabrina sa kanyang ama.
"Yes my little princess! We're going out at the park!" My little angel cheers up as
she heard the great news. "But first, you have to change your clothes.."
Tumakbo na si Sabrina papunta kay Manang Sally at umakyat na sila ng kuwarto para
bihisan ang anak ko.
Naiwan kaming dalawa ni Patrick sa sala.
I look at him and smiled. "I miss you Pat..."
He walks closer to me and huggs me. "I've missed you and Sabrina... so much." I
hugg him even tighter.
"Kumain ka na ba?" I asked as I look at him.
Umiling lang siya sa akin. I giggle. "Ipaghahanda ko kayo ni Sab ng miryenda"

I walk towards the kitchen.
"How's Manila?" I asks habang sinasandok yung pasta.
"Ayos lang. Our business is doing good. How about here? Kamusta kayo ni Sab?"
I poured out the white sauce. "Great!Sab just got a star at class. Hindi na rin
siya umiiyak sa loob ng classroom."
I walk towards him holding the plate filled with carbonara. "Our Restaurant's doing
great too." then I placed the plate on the table.
It's been seven years... It's been seven years since I've left Jed.
Tinulungan ako ni Patrick na makayanan ang makabangon muli. He was always there for
me. Hindi siya nawala sa tabi ko mula noon hanggang ngayon.
Minahal niya ako at si Sabrina ng sobra...
"Daddy!I'm ready"
My little angle runs towards her Dad. Pilit niyang inaaya itong lumabas na at
pumunta ng park.
"Daddy! Let's go out na! Let's play outside!"
"Ok sige. Lalabas na tayo but first..." kinuha ni Pat yung tinidor and swirl the
pasta. "We have to eat Mommy's pasta. Ok?"
She nods as she ates the Carbonara. "Mmmmm!" Sabrina's favourite food was
Carbonara.
"I added shrimps. Ok lang ba yung lasa niya? Di ba masyadong maalat?" I refer to
Pat.
"Hindi. Masarap. Kahit anong lutuin mo masarap para sa amin ni Sab. Right
princess?" Sab just nod as she enjoys the meal.
I felt contented and relieve.
Minsan. Naiisip ko kung kamusta na ba siya... Iniisip ko kung magiging masaya ba

ako kung hindi ko iniwan si Jed.
Pero sa tuwing iniisip kong balikan siya... parating pinapaalala sa akin kung gaano
kasakit yung mga nangyari sa aming dalawa.
Maybe, we're not really ment for each other. Masyado ko sigurong minahal si Jed
kaya hindi ko nakita kung gaano kasakit yung mga nangyari noon.
Noong mga panahong 'yon, hindi ko alam kung paano pa muli ako makakabangon. Gusto
ko nang sumuko noong mga panahong 'yon. Pakiramdam ko, wala nang patutunguhan pa
ang buhay ko.
But Sabrina came... she gives me that hope... that reason para mabuhay.
She became my stregnth and guide to another chapter of my life. She's the only
thing I ever hoped for. She's my hope... my light... my angel.
Akala ko noon, hindi ako mapapagod na mahalin si Jed. Akala ko, hindi ako susukong
mahalin siya. Pero siguro darating nga talaga sa panahong bigla ka na lang susuko
at mapapagod ang puso mo sa pagmamahal sa kanya.
Si Patrick.
Patrick. He made me feel special. He made me feel so important.
Hindi niya ako pinabayaan mula umpisa hanggang ngayon. He was always there for me.
Siya ang naging kasama ko sa pagtupad ng mga goals ko sa buhay.
After I gave birth to Sabrina, I pursue my cullinary course.
Ngayon, 2 years na ang restaurant namin sa bayan. It's getting stronger and bigger
as time passed by. Pat and I were planning to expand within this year.
Patrick and I we're good business partners. He was also a good partner and my
behalf.
It's already dinner.
Nasa dinning table kaming tatlo. Hindi na natapos magkuwento si Sabrina sa mga
nangyayari sa kanya dito sa Cebu sa daddy niya.
Once a week lang kasi umuwi dito si Patrick. Busy siya sa business sa Manila. Kung
minsan naman ay once a month siya bago makauwi dito kapag madaming paper works.
"Daddy?" Sabrina openned up a new topic.
"Yes my little princess?" We're in the middle of our dinner.
"Can we to amusement park?" She was referring to that Amusement Park sa Manila. "I
really wanted to go there to see the fireworks! Please daddy?" she had this sweet
convincing voice that spoils her Dad every time she did it.
And this is one example.
"Honey, daddy's busy at work—"
"Okay. We'll go there at your birthday." Hindi na ako nakatapos pa sa pagsasalita.
Napatingin na lang ako kay Pat. He just simle as he shrugs at me.
Hindi na ako tumutol pa. Sabrina looks so happy.
I wanted my daughter to be happy. At kung itong pag punta namin sa Amusement Park
ang magpapasaya sa kanya... so be it.
After dinner, Pat and I read bed time stories at Sab's room.
That was the routine kada uuwi si Pat dito.
Pat never talks about work whenever he's here. All of his time here was for us.
"Can we see Tita Charlotte and Tita Chezcka when we visit there?" she was at her
sleepy tone.
Inayos na namin ng higa si Sab. Pat covers her blanket while I placed her favourite
teddy bear on her side as she huggs it.
Pat and I silently walk out of Sabrina's room smiling.
Nabuo namuli ang little family namin ni Patrick. I am so happy he's right here with
us.
"Are you sure about it?" I am referring to what Sab's wants.
Pat walks into the bathroom. "About what?"

I followed him. Nag t-tooth brush na pala siya. Kinuha ko yung tooth brush ko at
nilagyan ng tooth paste.
He was looking at me by means of the mirror as he brush his teeth. Napa-upo ako sa
bath tub. I was holding the tooth paste on my left hand while my other hand was
full for my tooth brush.
He looks so puzzled. I sigh. I didn't know how to start talking about it.
"It's about us... going to that Amusement Park." I briefly closed my eyes and look
back at him. He's still brushing his teeth while still puzzled about that thing.
"You know, that Amusement Park had my past... It's just that, natatakot akong
bumalik doon. Natatakot akong maalala yung mga nangyari noon... I... I-I think I'm
not ready going back." I completed my sentence with a huge sigh.
Yes, I am still afraid... I am afraid to see him. I am afraid to see Jed again.
Natapos nang tooth brush si Pat. He looks at me and smile. "Gusto mo bang hindi na
tayo tumuloy?"
Yes, if it was only for me... but it was Sabrina's wish. I want my daughter to be
happy. i want to give everything to her. Love, care and full attention... Gusto
kong gabayan siya hanggang sa paglaki niya.
Mga bagay na hindi ko naranasan noon...
Umiling-iling ako. "No. I want to make Sabrina happy."
He walks towards me and smile. "You'll be fine." He kisses my forehead. "You don't
need to be afraid... as long as I am here... you and Sabrina will be safe." he says
assuring me as he cupped my face.
I hug him. "Thanks for everything Patrick..."
He hugs me back... and even tighter. "I love you... Lei. Always remeber that."
Oh Patrick... I love you too.
I've grown out feelings for him. Hindi siya mahirap mahalin.
"Brush your teeth. I'm tired. Matulog na tayo." He smiles at me.
He kissed me on my forehead and then he walks out of the bathroom.

I brush my teeth at sumunod na ako agad sa kanya sa kama.
Patrick hugs me the moment I lay down in bed. He hugs me so tight. I can feel his
warmth. I can see him beneath the light of the lamp. He smiles at me and kiss me on
my forehead.
"I love you, Pat." I say as I hug him back. "Thanks for always being here for me
and Sab."
"I love you more..." He held my hand and kiss my knuckles. "I'm always here to
protect you and Sabrina."
I placed my head on his chest. His one arm warps around my shoulders.
Patrick completed those spaces in me. He completed my life. I am thankful everyday

that God brings Patrick to my life.
I never thought that I can love this guy beside me more than what we had before.
Sino ba naman kasi ang hindi mamahalin ang katulad ni Patrick? He's a perfect
father for Sabrina. He's a perfect husband for me... He's the perfect partner whom
I can share the half of my life.
"Kamusta na kaya si Char and Chester? I haven't seen them for almost four months."
I utter.
"Busy sila sa business nila ngayon. I guess it's at its peek." He says as he gently
brushes my hair.
"I should call them. Sasabihan ko silang pupunta tayo sa Manila next week. Sab will
be happy to see her Titas." I look at him.
Nakapikit na yung mata niya yet he continue to brush my hair gently. He really is
tired.
I hug him tighter. I feel secure in his arms.
"Ready ka na bang bumalik ng Manila?" natigilan ako nang bigla niyang sabihin 'yun.
Am I ready? Handa na ba akong bumalik ng Manila?
Sa totoo lang... I am still scared. I am scared seeing people there that I don't
want to see. Alam ko sa sarili kong hindi parin humihilom 'tong sugat na dala-dala
ko for almost seven years.
I sigh heavily. "I am not sure... As far as what I feel right now... I don't want
to see any people from the past... I don't want to see him."
Alam ko sa sarili ko... Nandito parin siya sa puso ko... hindi parin siya nawawala.
Mahal na mahal ko parin si Jed hanggang ngayon.
Pero sa tuwing maalala ko siya... ibinabalik din noon how painful it was to love
him.
Sabi ko noon, hindi ako susuko... even if it takes a hell living with him. Kinaya
ko naman eh, but I guess it reach my limit. Puso ko na mismo ang nagdikta... puso
ko na mismo ang sumukko... sobrang sakit. Akala ko magkakaroon talaga kami ng
happy ending, but I guess... fairy tales and happy endings only happens at books
and movies.
Wala naman talagang perfect love story.
That's what I believe now.
"I won't let that happen... Lei, I know you still love him. Pero hindi ko na
hahayaan pang masaktan ka niya." He kiss me on my forehead. "I'll protect you and
Sab no matter what."
I feel assured. I hug him tighter.
Seven years ago, sinabi niya sa aking hindi niya ako pababayaan... na p-protektahan
niya ako... na hindi niya ako hahayaang masaktan pa... na hindi niya ako
papaiyakin.
Lahat ng pangako niya... nagampanan niya ng maayos. He never fails to make me

smile. Every single day... every minute and every hour. He always makes me feel
safe. Kahit na bihira siyang umuwi, he never fails sending me flowers and post
cards and calls making everything is fine here.
Sino bang hindi kayang mahalin ang isang Patrick Tan? He's one of a kind man.
He's sweet, gentle, caring... the man I was looking for in Jed's appearance.
Those qualities that I am looking for kay Jed seven years ago.
Seven years na ang lumipas. Marahil naka-move on na siya. I know, all of us became
mature enough to face the past. Masyado na siguro kaming matanda para umasta na
parang mga bata. I am now a full grown women. I become stronger. I am now a
mother...
*****
"Happy birthday My little Princess!" Pat greets our daughter.
"Blow your candle na sweet heart!" I said.
We sing happy birthday song.
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday! Happy birthday...
Happy birthday to you!
I place my hands on both of her shoulder and I whisper. "Make a wish my dear..."
She looks at and I smile at her.
Ipinikit niya ang mga mata niya and she says outloud yung wish niya.
"Sana pumunta kaming Amusement Park ni Mommy at Daddy!" then she blows off her
candles.
We clap as she finish blowing up the candles.
"Happy 7th birthday My little Princess!"

Patrick kisses her on her forehead. He leans forward and put on Sabrina her party
hat.
"I have a special gift for you..." Patrick smiling wide on her.
Inilabas ni Patrick ang isang puting envelope and give it to her. Kinuha naman ni
Sabrina yung envelope na nagtataka.
"What's this Daddy?" then she looks at her dad.
Pat smiles at her. "We're going to Manila... and we're going to that Amusement Park
you wanted to go."
I saw Sabrina's eyes sparks. She really looks so happy.
"Yeahay! We're going on a trip! Pupunta kami nila Mommy sa Amusement Park!"
Tuwang-tuwa si Sabrina. She hugs her Dad and plant little kisses on Pat's cheeks.
"I love you Daddy! Thank you! Thank you!" she says happily.
Binuhat siya ni Pat. "I love you my Little Princess!" and he kisses Sab on her
cheeks.
"I love you too Daddy! Love ko kayo ni Mommy!"
Pat put his one finger on the icing and nilagyan niya ang ilong ni Sab. The three
of us laugh.
I am happy being like this... I am completly happy.
Nabigla na lang ako nang pinahiran ako ni Pat ng icing sa mukha. Gumanti naman ako
at nilagyan ko si Sab. Then nilagyan namin ni Sab ng icing si Pat sa mukha.
The three of us laugh happily. I love this moments.
*****
"Wow! Ang ganda dito Mommy!" I was holding Sab's letf hand while Patrick was
holding her right hand.
Sab couldn't hide her happiness. Halos magt-talon ito sa sobrang tuwa niya.
Lumuhod si Pat facing our daughter. "Anong ride ang una mong gustong sakyan?"
Itinuro ni Sab yung Carousel. "I want to ride a horse!" nagtatatalon siya habang
itinuturo ang mailaw at nakaka-aliw na tunog ng Carousel.
Carousel ang una naming sinakyan. Then sumunod naman yung Bump Car. Nakasakay si
Sab sa Daddy niya habang ako naman mag-isa ang nag-drive. After that sumakay naman
kami sa Kiddy Train, I guess bago ang isang 'to. Para kasing itn-tour ka ng ride na
'to sa buong theme park.
Mukhang napakarami nang bagong rides dito. It's been a very long time noong huling
punta ko dito... I recall those happy memories.
Ang saya-saya ko noong mga panahon na 'yon dahil kasama ko ang taong mahal ko. I
remeber... that was the first time na niyaya niya akong lumabas at magli-aliw. That
is the first time na naging masaya ang theme park experience ko.
Nang sumapit ang 12nn, we find a place to eat at the food court area.
"Anong oras daw pupunta sina Charlotte?" tanong sa akin ni Patrick.
"Sabi nila malapit na sila. Sinabi kong nasa food court tayo ngayon."
We are having our lunch nang dumating ang mag pinsan.
"Chaaaaannnn!" agad na tumakbo sa akin si Charlotte at niyakap ako. Niyakap niya

ako ng sobrang higpit. "I missed youuuu! Buti naman at naisipan niyong lumanghap ng
polyusyon!" ani Charlotte nang kumalas siya mula sa pagkakayakap sa akin.
I smile at her. I missed this girl so much. Although bumisita naman sila sa Cebu
four months ago. "I missed you too." I look at her back. Wala si Chester.
"Asan nga pala si Chester? Di mo ba siya kasama?" I asks.
Char rolled her eyes on me. She pointed Chester sa bandang kanan ko.
I saw him from a far distance at kausap niya yung isang staff ng Amusement Park.
Mukhang hin-harass ni Chester yung lalaki.
Nagkatinginan kami ni Char at tumawa. Napa-iling na lang ako. Hay naku, hindi parin
nagbabago si Chester.
Chester maybe notices us and he wave his hands as he walks toward us. Yung lakad
niya, akala mo nasa isang Gay fashion show. Grabe kung i-kumpas ang balakang.
Dinaig niya pa ako.
"Welcome to Manila Ms. Leila Chan! Mabuhay!" malanding sabi ni Chester na puno ng
energy.Akala mo isa siyang flight attendant. Agad niya akong sinalubong ng yakap
matapos siyang mag pose sa gitna. "I miss you fafa Paaaatttt!"
napa-pout na lang ako. Yung totoo? Ako yung kayakapan niya pero ibang yung nam-miss
niya? Naka stretch ang arms ni Ches sa balikat ko na para bang hinaharangan ko siya
para yakapin niya si Patrick.
"Hoy bruha! Wag ka ngang umastang bakla-bakla sa harap ni Sab!" ani Char as he
pulls her cousin away from me.
Inirapan naman ni Ches ang pinsan at inayos ang buhok.
"Hi little Chaaannn! Did you miss your beautiful tita?" ani Chester nang lumapit
ito kay Sab na kasalukuyang kumakain ngayon ng ice cream. "Maganda ba si Tita
Chezcka?"
Sab just giggled as she nods. "Tita Chezcka looks always weird! She wears boy
clothes and her hair cut was look like yours daddy!"
"Ayyy! Kalerky tong batang itey! Wiz ang lola wata mo maging boy! Girl-lalu kaya
aketch!" hinawakan niya sa magkabilang pisngi si Sab. "Maganda si Tita Chezcka
diba?" pagsusumamo ni Ches sa anak ko.
Sab just laugh as she nods.
Lumapit naman si Char at lumuhod sa harap ni Sabrina. "Hi pretty Sab! I just bought
this for you." Ibinigay ni Charlotte ang isang paper bag kay Sab. "Open it." She
says nang mahawakan na ni Sab yung paper bag.
Sab happily opened it. Tuwang-tuwa ito nang buksan ang regalo ng kanyang tita. It's
a stuff toy— one looks like from her favourite cartoon series sa TV.
Niyakap niya ito ng mahigpit. "Thank you Tita Charlotte!" niyakap ni Sab si Char.
Nakita ko namang nagaasaran si Char at Ches. They were competing for Sab's.
"Ayyy! Baby Sab may gift din si Tita Chezcka!" ani Chester at binuksan ang kulay
light pink na body bag niya. Iniabot niya ang regalo niya kay Sab.
Dali-dali naman binuksan ni Sab ito. Sa box, may lamang head band at pair of
jewelries.
Isinuot naman ni Ches ang head band kay Sab. "Ayaaan! Para magkasing ganda na
tayooo!"
Sab giggle. "Thank you Tita Chezcka! It's my favorite color!"
After lunch, we continue our bonding here at the amusement park.
"Let's ride that plane!" turo ni Sab doon sa ride.
"Ayyy! Naku baby gurl! Hindi ne kery ni Tita Chezka jan!" sabi ni Ches as he folds
his arms.
Lumuhod ako sa harap ni Sab para mag-kasing level kami. I put my hands on her
shoulders.
"You go with your Daddy, your Titas and I will just watch you over here okay?" I
smile at her.
She just nod at sumama na rin sa Daddy niya.
I sigh.
Mag didilim na rin but we're still here at the amusement park. We are waiting for
the fire works.
Umupo kami nila Char at Ches sa isang table habang si Pat at Sab naman ay nage-
enjoy parin sa ride.
Pumangalumbaba naman si Chester habang nilalaro ang straw ng kanyang drink.
"Chaaaannn! I so envy youuuu!" bigla namang sabi ni Chester.
"Ha? Bakit naman?" I asks.
He looks at me and rolled his eyes. "Ikaw na may perfect family! I kaw na talaga
gurl! Ikaw naaaaa!"
Napailing-iling na lang ako. Ininom ko na lang yung soft drinks ko.

"How's business nga pala?" I uttered.
"Ayun, dumami yung clients..." walang kagana-ganang sagot ni Charlotte.
Biglang napahampas si Chester sa table na ikinagulat ko naman. "May chikka nga pala
ako sa'yo Chaaaannn!" nagni-ningning yung mga mata niya.
Hay, pagdating talaga sa mga chismis ang bilis nitong si Chester. Napailing-iling
na lang ako.
"Alam mo ba kung bakit ganyan yang si couzz??" excited na sabi ni Ches.
"Bakit?"
"Kasi nalilito ang heart niya..." napalingon si Ches kay Char na ngayon ay tulala.
"Hindi niya kasi alam kung sino ang pipiliin niya..."
"H-ha? Ano bang sinasabi mo?"
Chester leans forward and whispher at me. "May nanliligaw kasi kay couzzz! I am
sure you'll be surprise!"
"Sino ba kasi?"
"It's..." He giggle "Jasper Salvador."
napatingin ako kay Chester. "S-si Jasper?" He nods at me.
Chester and Charlotte started to take care of their family business. Before, it was
just a simple patahian. Now, meron na silang botique at sumikat na rin ito sa
fashion industry. Nag-take ng course about fashion designing si Chester after maka-
graduate ng business ad.
Naging client daw nila si Jasper para sa isang magazine shoot. And I must say,
kasing level na nila yung shop ni Amanda. May mga client na rin kasi silang mga
sikat at kilalang tao sa Pilipinas.
"Hayy nakuuu! Ako kasi yung nagp-pa cute kay Fafa Jaspyy eee! Siya yung napansin?"
Chester looks at Char na hanggang ngayon ay tulala parin. "Hmpp! Di hamak na mas
maganda naman ako diteyy kay couzzz!"
Napangalumbaba ito. "Lamang lang naman si couz ng ovaries over me eee!"

He keeps on nagging. Natatawa na lang ako.
We keep on talking. Ikinuwento nila yung experiences nila sa mga clients nila.
We keep on sharing talks nang dumating na si Sab at Patrick.
"Did you enjoy the rides?" I asks to Sab.
She nods at me. Umupo sila ni Patrick sa katabi kong upuan. Sab was holding a
balloon.
"Mommy, anong oras yung fireworks?"
"Malapit na baby Sab!" sabi ni Char.
Napapalakpak naman si Sab sa sinabi nito. "Yey! Malapit na mag fireworks!"
We eat dinner at around 7:30pm. Yung fireworks display daw around 8:30 pm. It's the
signal na magsasara na ang theme park.
Sumakay ulit kami ng isa pang ride bago pumunta sa center ng theme park para
panuorin yung fireworks display.
"I'm so excited to see the fireworks display!" nagt-talong sabi ni Sab.
Biglang tumugtog sa mga speakers ang song ng theme park. At para bang sumusunod sa
kanta makulay na fireworks.
Buhat-buhat ni Patrick si Sab habang pinapanuod ang makukulay na fireworks sa

kalangitan.
"Can we come here again?" Sab asks.
"Of course My Little Princess!" sabi naman ni Patrick.
"Chan, we have to go... dito na kami sa kabila dadaan. Banda dito kasi naka-park
yung sasakyan namin." Paalam ni Char.
I nod. "Ingat kayo ni Ches."
"Sige. Kayo rin ingat kayo." nagpaalam na rin si Char kay Pat at Sab.
"Bye baby gurl! Be good to mommy and daddy ok?" sabi naman ni Ches.
We parted ways. Naglakad na kami papunta kung saan naka park yung sasakyan namin.
Sa kabilang exit side kami dumaan.
Ang daming tao ang nagkasabay-sabay ng pag labas ng theme park.
"Sabrina. Hold my hand tighter okay?" she just nod.
Nauna kasing lumabas si Pat para kunin yung kotse. We'll just wait for him sa
entrance gate.
Nakipagsiksikan kami ni Sab sa dagsa ng tao...
Hawak kong maigi ang kamay niya...
"Sabrina?"
Nang makalabas na kami, biglang bumitiw sa pagkakahawak ko si Sab. Nilingon ko siya

pero hindi ko siya makita.
"Sabrina? Sabrina! Sabrina?" I keep on yelling.
Nakaramdam na ako ng kaba.
"Where's Sab?" Pat suddenly uttered.
"H-hindi ko alam. Hawak ko lang siya kanina tapos bigla niyang binitawan yung kamay
ko nung makalabas na kami." natataranta na ako.
Pat hugs me and kisses my forehead. "We'll find her..."
We keep on looking for Sab. Unti-unti nang nawawala yung mga tao sa theme park.
Sinabi na rin namin sa mga security guards kung makita man nila yung anak namin.
Please... God, tulungan niyo po akong mahanap si Sab... make her safe... she's my
everything.
Halos 15 minutes na kaming naghahanap sa kanya. Katulong na namin yung mga security
guards and personnels sa paghahanap kay Sab sa buong theme park.
"Ma'am! Sir! Nakita na po yung anak niyo." sabi naman ng isang staff ng theme park.
Agad-agad kaming sumama ni Pat doon sa staff.
Nakita ko sa Sabrina sa tapat nung Carousel. She's holding her balloon while
talking to someone na naka black coat. I couldn't see kung sino dahil nakatalikod
ito sa amin. Maybe their manager or someone in higher position.
"Sabrina!" I called her.
She looks at me and smile. "Mommy! Daddy!" agad na tumakbo sa amin si Sab.
Sinalubong ko siya ng yakap. I hug her tighter. "I though I've lost you..."
pabulong kong sabi.
When I recovered. I put my hands on her shoulders.
"Bakit mo binitawan ang kamay ni Mommy? Diba I told you wag kang bibitiw?"
Malumanay ko sabi.
"I'm sorry mommy. Yung balloon ko kasi nabitawan ko. I try to catch it." yumuko
siya. I think she was about to cry. "I'm sorry mommy."
I hug her once again. "Shh..." Hinaplos-haplos ko yung buhok niiya. "It's okay
baby. Mommy's not mad at you."
Pinunasan ni Sab yung luha sa mga mata niya. "He help me to get back my balloon."
she says between her sobs.
I look up to see kung sino yung kausap niya kanina.
Bigla akong nanghina nang makita ko kung sino...
"J-jed..."
———————————————————————————-
Second chances doesn't always means a happy ending.

Sometimes, it's just another shot to end things better...
————————————————————————————
Anne's Letter:
Hellooooo~! I MISS YOU GUYS!
HAHA! Sabi ko sa inyo mag u-update ako eh! Pasensya na po sa mga naghintay. I don't
know if it's worth the wait but I hope you guys enjoyed/liked the update. =))
GRABE! Nabasa ko yung comments niyo from the previous chapter! Natatawa ako sa
ibang comment! Laughtrip super! Yung iba naman very touching and nakak-flattered.
Sorry di ko man magawang mag reply sa lahat ng comments but I am happy to read all
of those!
BOOM! Di ko akalain na ganun na kadami yung reads ng TMW! HAHA! Parang huling
update ko yata nasa 99k lang yun pero ngayon nasa 500k na siya! OMG! Nakaka-kilig
po! Superrrr! :">
Nagulat din ako nung nakita ko yung dami ng followers ko. HAHA! 1.23k? O_O mas
madami pa kesa sa followers ko sa IG at Twitter! XD parang dati nasa 200 lang kayo
ahh. Haha! I hope makilala ko kayong 1.23k kong new friends and inspiration. :)) I
hope to see you guys personally!
THANK YOU SA WALANG SAWANG PAG HIHINTAY AT PAG UNAWA SA AKIN GUYS! Huhuhu! Di ko
mp-promise na mas dadalas na ang pag UD but I'll try my best to do an update once a
week. Super thank you sa heart warming comments and Messages sa Message board and
thru PM's! Kahit na yung iba ang comment eh: "kailan po ud?" at "ud ka na po pls"
haha! di po talaga ako nag r-reply sa mga ganung comments kasi wala talaga akong
maisasagot dun. -__-
Thank you sa VOTES! Sa COMMENTS! Sa SUPPORT! I am super happy to be back again. =))
Btw, I am dedicating this Chappy to Macy Labaco. Hi~! Superrr late HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I hope nabasa mo 'to ngayon =)) Her birthday was Feb 21. Natapat sa Sports Fest sa
school so I'm busy that day at nung mga sumunod pang araw. 1 week po kasi yung
Sports Fest sa school. I try to post a message sa FB but I can't find your account
na. So I guess, dito na lang kita babatiin. I'm sorry it's super late! But happy
15th birthday! Aral ng maigi ha? Wag puro basa ng wattpad stories! ~.^V eto na lang
birthday gift ko sa'yo! Charrr! XD See you soon dear! PM me if you read this! God
bless! :**
Enjoy your summer vacation guys!
Have a nice and hot summer! ^^
God bless!
~ChecheAnne :">
PS: Dunno if I can do an update this next week but probable by end of may na ulit?
Haha! Kinda busy with my summer class pa po eh. Daily kasi ang school sched. -__-
but 9 am to 4 pm lang naman ang class ko. So I guess I have some time to type :)
=================
Chapter 24
Chapter 24
"J-jed."
I couldn't move.
Anong ginagawa niya dito? Totoo ba 'tong nakikita ko? Si Jed ba talaga ang lalaking
nasa harapan ko ngayon?
"Jed. What are you doing here?" Pat suddenly utters.
Inalalayan ako ni Patrick sa pagtayo. Pakiramdam ko natunaw yung mga tuhod ko.
Nanghihina ako. What's happening?
He smiles at us. "I'm the Cheif Operating Manager of Dream Park."
It's been seven years since I saw this guy...
Yung ngiti ni Jed. Hindi parin nagbabago... He still has that smile. He was still
the man I've loved.
"T-talaga?" I didn't realize na nakapagsalita ako. I smile. bitterly."It's been a

long time Jed."
He nods. "Yeah. It's been a long time." His gaze were only focus on me. He was
starring at me. His face was numb. "Looks like you've change a lot."
Lumapit siya kay Sab. He kneels down so they become in level. He puts his one hand
on Sab's head.
"Be a good girl to your Mom and Dad okay?" He smiles at my daughter.
Sab just nod as she giggles. "Yes Mr Balloony!"
Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko.
I am not prepared with this kind of meeting. Hindi pa ako handang harapin si Jed. I
am still afraid to see him even though seven years have been passed.
"I think we should go." Pat put his hands on my shoulders. "C'mon my little
princess! We're going home na." aya ni Pat sa anak namin.
"Bye-bye Mr Balloony! Thank you for catching my balloon!" Sab said her goodbyes.
Lumapit na sa amin si Sab at hinawakan ang kamay ng kanyang ama. Pat's other hand's
around my shoulder. Hawak-hawak niya ako ng mahigpit.
"Goodbye Jed... it's nice to see you again." I don't know... Hindi ko alam kung
saan ko kinuha yung tapang kong magsalita.
Did I say it naturally? Hindi ba ako nag-stattered?
Naglakad na kami palayo ni Pat and Sab...
"Papa! Papa! Tawag ka na po ni Mama!" I still.
I heard a little boy's voice. Para akong naka-glue sa lupang kinatatayuan ko.
Ilang steps palang ang nalalakad ko palayo kay Jed pero hindi ko parin magawang
maging matapang sa harapan niya.
It was like, I am still the old Leila who loves him unconditionally even if it
hurts me so much.
"Sige susunod na ko Justine. I have to do some round checks pa." I heard his voice
once more.
Nangingilid na ang mga luha ko. Naramdaman ko naman ang paghigpit na pagkakapulupot
ng kamay ni Patrick sa balikat ko. I look at him. He was smiling at me. I didn't
realize na buhat na pala niya si Sabrina sa kabilang braso niya.
"What's wrong mommy?" nagaalalang tanong ni Sab.
I smile at my little angel. Umiling-iling ako. "Wala anak. Napagod lang si Mommy."
Mukhang nalungkot naman ang mukha ni Sab. "I'm sorry mommy. Did I become a burden
to you and daddy?" She was about to cry.
"No. No, honey. Mommy and I loves you so much. Kaya hindi kami magagalit sa'yo."
Pat explains.
"I love you daddy!" She plants little kisses on her Daddy's cheeks.
"Kiss mo din si Mommy!" She bends forward on me and plant kisses on my cheeks too.
"I love you mommy! I love you Daddy!"
"I love you Sabrina!" I said and was about to kiss her on her cheeks nang biglang
umiwas siya.
To my surprise. Pat was the one I kisses on his lips. A swift and soft kiss.
Sab giggles while Pat smiles at me. I smile at him.
I kiss him once again. A sweet yet swift kiss. "I love you Patrick.."
"I love you Lei."
For a moment nakalimutan kong nasa theme park parin pala kami. I forgot if Jed's
was still there... standing at the Carousel.
Nagpatuloy na kami sa paglalakad. I simply glance at the back.

He's gone.
*****
Sa Hotel na kami dumiretsyo galing Dream Park.
What kind of wheel of fate the two of us have? At doon pa talaga kami magk-kitang
dalawa? I didn't expect things to be like this. I never imagine myself seeing him
right now. At that place.
I can still picture him...
The way he smiles...
His eyes...
His lips...
His nose...
The face I've loved... the man I loved.
Nasa presidential room kami ngayon ni Pat at Sab. Kitang-kita ko ang street lights
mula dito sa malaking glass window ng Hotel. Tan's Hotels are the best in the
country. Bukod sa maganda ang accomodation, high class rin ang mga hotels nila kaya
mga kilalang celebrity ang tumutuloy dito. Even Kings and Queens do stayed here in
this Hotel.
I'm standing infront of the window gazing at the lights while holding a glass of
red wine.
Naramdaman ko ang paglapat ng mga kamay ni Pat sa balikat ko.
"Hindi ka pa ba inaantok? Aren't you tired?" He asks.
I smile at him at umiling-iling. "Hindi pa ako inaantok..."
Patrick holds my hand. He motioned me to sit down beside him on the sofa.
Umupo ako sa tabi niya. Ininom ko yung natitirang wine sa baso at inilapag ito sa
side table.
I place my head on his shoulder.
"Are you okay, Lei?" He sounds so worried at me.
I just nod. I know I am not a great liar. I know Pat knows I am not okay. And I
know he was refering to what happened a while ago.
He places his hands on my head as he brushes my hair gently.
"Akala ko... okay na ko Patrick." I sigh. He let me do the talking. "I thought kaya
ko nang indahin yung sakit... It's been seven years... Ang tagal na ng panahong
lumipas. Pero bakit ganon?" I look at him. He was expressionless. "Bakit nasasaktan
parin akong makita siya? Bakit naninikip parin yung dibdib ko?" I didn't realize my
eyes are full of tears.
Patrick just hugs me. He hugs me so tight.
Tuloy-tuloy lang ang pag agos ng luha sa mga mata ko. I hug him back.
"Bakit bumibilis parin 'yung tibok ng puso ko..." I place my one hand on my chest.
"Bakit mahal ko parin si'ya?"
Napahagulgol ako ng iyak.
Again, after all these years... I am still miserable. Hanggang ngayon, hindi parin
ako nakakawala sa pagmamahal ko kay Jed. I still love him.
Yes, mahal ko parin si Jed. Hindi ko 'yon maitatago... hindi ko maitatago ang
nararamdaman ko para sa kanya after all these years.
Pat was aware of it. He says he was willing to wait... to wait for my wounds to
heal and changes of heart. I felt guilty everytime na naalala ko si Jed habang si
Patrick ang kasama ko. Pakiramdam ko hindi ako tapat sa kanya.
Pakiramdam ko niloloko ko si Pat. Feeling ko pinagtataksilan ko siya...
Ganoon ang tingin ko sa sarili ko sa tuwing iniisip ko si Jed. Nakaka-kain kaya

siya ng maayos? Has he wahses his clothes? Nagkasakit kaya siya? Ok pa ba siya?
Kamusta na siya?
Mahal parin niya ba ako hanggang ngayon? Minahal niya ba ako?

Hindi ko mapigilang maisip si Jed whenever there are little moments or things that
makes me reminded of him.
Pero yung nangyari kanina... nadinig ko yung boses ni Justine. Pakiramdam ko

sinaksak yung puso ko sa sobrang sakit. He calls Jed his dad and mentioned Mama.
Isang bagay lang ang pumasok sa isipan ko noong mga panahong 'yon.
They really lived happily... One big happy family.
I am happy with what I had- Patrick and Sab. They are my new family. Mahal na mahal
ko sila. But it hits me like a wrecking ball noong madinig ko ang boses ni Justine.
Ang sakit-sakit lang isipin, after what I have been through with Jed sa bandang
huli sumuko lang ako. Sa bandang huli... yung pinapangarap kong pamilya ay iba na
pala ang bumubuo 'non at kumukumpleto.
Nararamdaman kong tumtagos yung sinag ng araw sa mukha ko. I slowly open my eyes. I
can see light coming from the window. I pull myself up from bed at umayos ng upo.
I didn't know kung pano ako nakahiga ng kama. All I know was I am crying all night.
Maybe Pat put me in bed when I fell asleep.
I can see a man figure standing over ther. I smile even though I can't see his
face.
"Good morning Mommy!" Sab greeted me as she climbs on the bed.
Sab planted sweet little kisses on my cheeks. "Good morning baby..." paos kong
sabi.
Sab wraps her arms around my neck and plant more sweet little kisses on my cheeks.
I look again at my side to see Patrick still standing at the window. He was smiling
at me.
I smile back. "Good morning."
"Good morning!" masiglang bati ni Patrick. Kinuha niya yung tray sa couch at
inilapag sa harap ko. "Breakfast in bed..." then he kisses my forehead.
I smile at him. Pat was always like this... whenever I am not feeling well, he
always treats me like a queen.
"Mommy! Mommy! You should eat this!" Kinuha ni Sab yung fork and knife at hiniwa
yung bacon.
"Carefull honey." nagaalala kong sabi.
Nakaupo naman si Pat sa gilid ko. He places his one arm around my shoulder.
"Mommy say 'ahhhh'!" I open my mouth at isinubo yung bacon.
I smile as I chew the bacon.
"Was it good? Was it good Mommy?" kumikislap yung mga mata ni Sab. I nod as i smile
at her. She giggle with achievement in her eyes. "Daddy and I prepared this for you
Mommy... We went there at the big kitchen and the Chef over there teach me how to
cook this."
"So you want to become a Chef?" I asks.
Sab nods as she giggles. "Yes mommy! I want to become a chef just like you Mommy!"
then she wraps again her arms around my neck and kisses me on my cheeks.
I finish eating breakfast. After naming mag lunch sa hotel ay umalis na kami
papuntang airport. We're going back to Cebu.
This much better. Mas mabuti nang makaalis na kami agad dito. At least, I can find
myself safe and secured at Cebu. I am still not ready to face Jed... to face
everyone in here.
"Mommy! Daddy! Can we visit here in Manila again?" Sab says on the back seat.
"Yes my little princess!" Pat says.
"Yeahay! I wanna go back there at Dream Park and we can play all day!" tuwang-
tuwang sabi ni Sab.
My phone suddenly rings.
"Sino yan?" Pat asks who's still focus on the road.
I took my phone out from my hand bag. It's my elder sister.
"Si ate?" I answer the call. "Hello ate?"

[Wumei, there's something I wanted to tell you...]
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. I don't know why but my heart's beating so fast.
"What happened?"
[I-It's... It's about...] bigla na lang humagugol ng iyak si ate sa kabilang linya.
Lalo akong kinabahan.
"A-ate? Ano bang nangyayari? What's happening there? What happened?" nagaalala kong
sabi.
I look at Pat. Nakakunot ang noo niya trying to catch what's happening.
[Wumei... it's me.] I heard an autonomous sound of a man. I am sure this is my

older brother. I can still hear my older sister crying on the line. [It's about
Wuzumu... Grandmother is dead.]
Tuluyang bumagsak ang mga luha sa mata ko.
I didn't realize na itinabi na pala ni Pat yung sasakyan sa gilid ng kalsada. I

just keep on crying .
I look at Pat as my tears keeps on falling. He look so numb.
"Nainai's dead." He automatically wraps his arms around me.
Niyakap ko siya ng mahigpit. Humagulgol na ako ng iyak as I hug him so tight. Hindi
nagsalita si Pat but I felt his one hand brushing my hair and the other one's
tapping my back.
Isang tao nanaman ang nawala sa akin...
*****
We booked a flight immediately papuntang Hong Kong. Na-cremate na ang mga labi ni
Nainai. Nadatnan namin ang isang jar sa center ng isang maliit na room. Katabi 'non
ay isang malaking larawan niya. Sa magkabilang gilid ay insenso at may prutas at
bulaklak.
Buhat ko si Sab at nasa likod ko naman si Pat habang papasok kami sa lugar na
pinagburulan ni Nainai. Sinalubong kami ni ate at itinuro kung nasaan si Nainai.
"Mommy, why is Granny's picture was in there? Why is everyone's wearing black?"
Pabulong na sabi ni Sab sa akin.
I put my daughter down and kneel para maging magkasing level kami. I put my hands
on her shoulders and smile. I gently rub her shoulders.
"Baby..." Hindi ko kayang sabihin sa anak ko ang malungkot na balita. She loved her
lola so much. I just smile. "Granny just went to a place where good people go."
"Did Granny went to heaven mommy? When will she come back?" nagaalalang sabi ni
Sab.
Hindi ko mapigilang maluha. I wipe my tears quickly. "Honey, matatagalan pa bago mo

ulit makita si Granny."
I hug my daughter. Napamahal sila sa isa't-isa. Kaya hindi ko kayang sabihin sa

anak kong wala na ang kinalakihan niyang lola... na patay na si Nainai.
"You should go with Daddy, I'll just have to talk to your titas okay?" I kiss her
forehead and look at Pat.
Binuhat ni Pat si Sab palayo.
Lumapit sa akin si Ate Mei. She hugs me. She places her hands on my shoulders and
smile at me.
"Jed and his family are here."
A few moments of silence came. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang sasabihin ko. I am out of
words.
Hindi ko alam kung anong sasabihin ko hanggang sa makita kong naglalakad na si Jed
papalapit sa amin. Kasama niya si Mama, si Fei at ang Family niya.
Lumapit sa akin si Mama and hug me so tight. "I missed you my daughter..."
That warmth makes me cry. Hinigpitan ko ang pagkakayakap ko kay Mama.
"I missed you too, Mama." A few seconds rin na magkayakap kami ni Mama. I've missed
her so much. It's been two years since I saw her.
She smiles at me nang humiwalay siya sa pagkakayakap sa akin. It's like she was
observing my face.. studying me. Ganoon din ang ginawa ko kay Mama. Mukhang tumanda
na siya. Nagkaroon na ng rinkles ang mga noo niya at may puti na siyang buhok. But
she has that same smile that never fades even years have passed by.
She puts her hands on my cheeks. "Maganda ka parin hanggang ngayon." Napangiti ako
kay Mama at niyakap siyang muli.
"I am sorry for what happened... " Hawak-hawak na ni Mama ang mga kamay ko. "Our
family wanted to say our deepest condolence. The Sy and Chan family has been tied
up with close relationship for almost three generations."
I just nod at Mama.
Si Fei naman ang agad na yumakap sa akin. "I missed you Ate Chan. I missed how you
cook the food and how you braid my hair before..." Kumalas na kami sa pagkakayakap.
I smile at her. Hindi ko expected na magiging reunion ang huling burol ng Lola ko.
I didn't know na isasama ni Jed si Justine at si Amanda Lu.
"It's been seven years since I saw you Fei. You look so matured and grown up. You
look wonderful!" We both giggle.
"I still wanted you for my brother." nagulat ako sa tahasang pananalita ni Fei.
Jed suddenly clears his throat. Napatingin dito si Fei and shurgs. Niyakap akong
muli ni Fei at nagpaalam sa akin para sundan si Mama.
Naiwan si Jed at ang family niyang nakatayo sa harapan ko.
"Condolence, Leila." bati sa akin ni Amanda.
I can feel mixed emotions. Para akong sasabog ngayon. It's been seven years since I
saw this girl... this girl who brought pain in my life.
Para akong sasabog ngayon. Naghahalo ang galit at takot sa akin. I can see my
subconsciousness grabbing her hair down at pinagmumura niya. But in reality, I just
nod at her with an impassive reaction.
Hindi na nagsalita pa si Jed at naglakad na sila papunta kay Mama.
Halos mangatog ang tuhod ko nang makalagpas na sila sa akin. Pinipilit kong hindi
umiyak mula kanina pa.
Hindi ako naiiyak sa kung anong nakita ko...

I am crying because I am still in pain. Masakit parin... Nasasaktan parin ako.
Hanggang ngayon ay hindi parin naghihilom ang sugat sa puso ko. Buong akala ko,
ayos na ako. Naka-move on na ako. Akala ko wala na yung sakit, galit at takot na
nararamdaman ko.
Hindi pala... nagkamali ako.
I am still not over him... I still love Jed.
*****
My family decided to cremate my grandmother's corpse. That's her will na rin.

Isinaboy ang mga abo niya sa dagat at humalo ito sa hangin at tubig ng dagat. She
told to them that if she dies, gusto niyang isaboy ang abo niya sa dagat para sa
paraang 'yon ay magkakasama na silang dalawa ng grandfather namin.
Nagsipag alisan na ang mga tao. But the Sy family was still here at nakikiramay. So
as Amanda and their son. Ngayon ko na lang ulit nakita si Justine. It's been seven
years since the last time I saw him. He's still that little cute baby boy I've
learn to love and cherish. Wala akong hinanakit o galit na nararamdaman para sa
bata, he was just an innocent little angel na walang kasalanan. Bunga lang siya ng
kasalanan...
Lumabas ako ng garden para magpahangin.
Four years ago nang magpunta kami dito ni Pat kasama ang anak naming si Sab para
ipakilala sa kanila. Masaya ako dahil minahal at tinaggap nila ang anak ko at si
Patrick.
Masayang tinanggap ng pamilya ko ang desisyon ko...
I was in the moment of reminiscing those moments with Nainai when someone suddenly
called me.
"Leila." She was smiling at me as if we are in good terms.
Amanda walk towards me smiling. Para akong sinasaksak habang nakikita ko siyang
naka ngiti at ipinapakita niya sa aking nanalo siya. Nandito parin sa puso ko yung
galit at sakit na naramdaman ko noon.
Gusto ko siyang sampalin. Gusto ko siyang ingudngod sa lupa. Gusto ko siyang
sabunutan at kalbuhin. Gusto ko siyang lumuhod sa harapan ko at magmakaawang
patawarin ko siya sa kasalanang nagawa niya.
But things are different now. Ayokong mamuhay at makulong sa galit at sakit. That's
why I've decided to let go of the things I love the most... That's why I've learned
to let go of Jed kahit na mahal na mahal ko parin siya hanggang ngayon.
"Nakikiramay kami ni Jed sa pagkamatay ng Lola mo. I know you are still in pain
about what happened." Napangiti ako ng mapakla.
"Yeah. I am still in pain right now." I plainly said. I didn't realize na double
meaning ang mga binitawan kong salita sa kanya.
Nawala ang ngiti niya sa labi. It became impassive. "We're going to celebrate
Justine's 9th birthday party next week." Huminga siya ng malalim at ngumiti muli.
It's a fake one."I hope you and Pat... and your daughter can come at the party. I
guess, this will be the right time para maipakilala kami ni Justine bilang member
ng Sy Family."
I felt like I was stab. Pero naka-recover parin ako sa sinabi niya.
"Seriously, Amanda Lu? Ganyan ka na ba ka-desperate? How can you become a Sy when
Jed haven't signed the divorse papers?" Nawala yung ngiti niya. Napansin kong
nakayukom ang mga kamay niya. I smile at her. "Sabihin mo muna kay Jed na pirmahan
na niya ang mga papers. It's been two years since I filed it."
She composed herself. "Yeah, I'll convince him. Hindi ka niya kailangan. Nandito
kami ni Justine ang totoong pamilya niya."
I crossed my arms. "But I am still his wife. That wouldn't change the fact you are
his acting wife. Hindi ko kasalan kung hindi ka parin niya pinapakasalan."
Napangisi ako. "I guess ikinakahiya ka ni Jed."
"How dare you!" akmang sasampalin niya ako nang may humawak sa kamay niya.
"J-jed!" gulat na gulat si Amanda.
Binitawan naman agad ni Jed ang kamay niyang nakataas at akmang ipangs-sampal sa
akin. Jed's face was numb. He was looking straight at Amanda.
"Amanda, puntahan mo muna si Justine." he turn his looks at me. "I just need to
talk to Leila before we leave."
Agad namang umalis si Amanda at pumasok na sa loob.

Kami na lang ngayon ni Jed ang naiwan dito. A few moments of silence came between
the two of us. I was just looking at his eyes. Ganoon din siya sa akin.
Gusto kong sabihing mahal ko parin siya. Pero hindi ko magawa. Yung nararamdaman ko
kasi ngayon... naghahalo. Yung pagmamahal, nahahaluan ng galit at takot. Hanggang
ngayon, nandito parin yung sakit... hanggang ngayon galit parin ako sa ginawa niya.
Hanggang ngayon, natatakot ako na masaktan niya ulit ako. Natatakot akong baka
hindi ko na kayanin ang masaktan pang muli. That's why I am choosing to be happy
and safe... I am choosing Patrick and to ba happy with him and Sab.
I break the ice. "What do you wanted to say to me Jed?"
He clears his throat. "I wanted to say my deepest condolence to you and the Chan's"
I just smile at him. "I was just happy na naging okay kami ng family ko bago pa
mamatay si Nainai. I am just happy because I've got the loved I was longing for to
them... the acceptance and acknowledgement."
Nagulat ako nang hilahin ako ni Jed papalapit sa kanya. He hugs me so tight.
"I'm sorry..." he whisphers to my ear. "I'm sorry, I was not around to wipe your
tears. I'm sorry I am not the man who deserves your love. I'm sorry for
everything..."
Bumilis yung tibok ng puso ko. Tumulo ang luha ko.
"I'll love you forever and always... Mahal na mahal kita, Leila."
I just missed his voice... I missed him hugging me... I missed every bit of him.
Few minutes when we parted. Napunasan ko na yung luhang tumulo sa mga mata ko. Tila
nawala ako sa sarili nang yakapin niya ako. But reality hits me na hindi na talaga
kami magkakabalikan pa... hindi na maiababalik pa ang isang basag na puso.
"About what you've wanted two years ago..." Iniabot niya sa akin ang isang brown
envelope. Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. "I'm giving it to you."
"I have signed the papers."

Di ba't dapat ay masaya ako at pinirmahan na niya? Bakit parang gusto kong umiyak
sa sobrang sakit na nararamdaman ko ngayon?
*****
We stayed at the Cha's house. Our eldest brother Chan Xian Siu who's english name
was Joseph gathered us all. Kailangan kasing kumpleto ang pamilya sa pag-announce
ng Will of Testaments ni Nainai. We are gathered at the round table waiting for the
Attourney.
Nakaramdam ako ng kaba ng dumating na yung abogado ng family.
Sinaad sa Will na lahat ng estates and businesses ng family ay ang eldest brother
namin ang magm-manage. May tig-iisang property naman ang natitirang apo niya.
Nagulat na lang ako ng sabihin ng abogado na ipinamana sa akin ng Lola ko ang lahat
ng shares niya sa Sy Corporation. I am now a stockholder... isa na ako sa may-ari
ng kumpanyang minahal at inalagaan ni Jed.
"Are you sure about this, Lei?" Pat asks me.
It's the same question he asked seven years ago. Pitong taon na ang nakakaraan nang
tanungin niya ako kung desidido na ba talaga ako sa desisyon kong lumayo kay Jed.
And now, he is asking me kung sigurado na ba akong bumalik sa Manila at harapin
lahat ng takot ko.
Bumalik na kami sa Cebu. And this time, nage-impake na kami para lumipat sa Manila.
I have to take responsibility sa Sy Corp.
I sigh deeply and smile at him habang iniimpake ang mga gamit namin.
"Yes. I'm sure about this." Buo na ang loob kong bumalik.
I just realize maliit lang ang mundong ginagalawan namin. Darating talaga ang
panahong kailangan mong harapin ang mga bagay na kinatatakutan mo. And now is the
time to face my fears.
I sigh.
"Pero alam mo Pat, nakakaramdam parin ako ng takot. Natatakot akong baka bumigay
nanaman ako..."
Lumapit sa akin si Pat and hug me. "You have nothing to worry about..." He kisses
my forehead. "As long as I'm here, you don't have to worry. P-protektahan kita."
I hug him back. Ilang minuto rin kaming magkayakap.

Bigla kong naalala yung divorse papers.
"I have to tell you something.." kinuha ko sa drawer ang brown envelope at inabot
sa kanya. "J-jed already signed it."
He looks at me with concerned eyes. "Are you okay, Lei?"
Huminga ako ng malalim. I nod at him and smile. "Yes I'm okay. Diba ang tagal ko
nang hinihingi sa kanya 'to?" natatawa ako. "Two years ang inabot bago siya pumayag
sa divorse."
'Di ko na napigilan yung luha ko... Tuloy-tuloy yung pag-agos nito.
"Bakit ganon? Diba dapat masaya ako?" agad akong kinulong ni Patrick sa kanyang mga
braso. "Bakit nasasaktan ako? Bakit ang sakit-sakit?"
Hindi nagsalita si Patrick. He was just hugging me as he taps my back gently. Hindi
niya ako binitawan hanggang sa mapanatag na yung loob ko at tumigil na ako sa pag-
iyak.
"I-I'm sorry Patrick."
Natatawa siyang tumingin sa akin. "For what?"
"For everything." Huminga ako ng malalim. Hinawakan ko ang isang kamay niya. I
squeeze it gently and smile at him. "You're always here for me. Pero hindi ko
masuklian yung mga magagandang bagay na ginagawa mo para sa akin. Ngayon,
pakiramdam ko pinagtataksilan kita. Pinagtataksilan kita in a way that you know
that I am still in love with Jed. In away na alam mong may nararamdaman parin ako
sa kanya."
Niyakap niya ako. "Lei, wala akong hinihinging kapalit sa'yo. I know na mahal mo
parin si Jed. It takes time for you to mend that broken heart. Sapat na sa aking
hinahayaan mo akong mahalin ka. Masaya akong makasama ko kayo ni Sabrina. Mahal na
mahal ko kayong dalawa. I am always here to protect the two of you. I am still
thankful na hinahayaan mo akong mahalin ka. I know... nararamdaman kong sinusubukan
mo akong mahalin... Masaya na ako sa ganoon. I know I'll always have a space in
your heart. And with that.. I am contented."
I felt relieve sa mga sinabi ni Pat. But still, nahihiya ako sa kanya... pakiramdam
ko ay pinagtataksilan ko siya... feeling ko niloloko ko siya.
We continue to pack our things. Maaga kasi ang flight namin papuntang Manila.
Hindi ko alam kung anong mangyayari sa pagbalik ko. I am not sure kung tama ba ang
desisyon ko... pero hindi ko kayang talikuran ang family ko. Nainai gave me this
and I know hindi ko kayang pabayaan ang company. Ang tagal nang naging part ng mga
Chan ang Sy. The two were great partners in business for three generation and I
don't want to ruin it just because of me and Jed.
Jed and I tied up in a marraige para mas maging matibay ang samahan ng dalawang
angkan but we ended up separated. But it doesn't mean na mabubura na rin ang
samahan ng dalawang pamilya. I cannot afford to sold the shares na ipinamana sa
akin ng Lola ko. I don't wan't to fail her. Napamahal na rin sa akin ang pamilya ni
Jed- si Mama at si Fei. They treated me as part of the family.
Pero sa pagbabalik ko... ibang Leila Chan na ang makikilala nila. I've changed.
I've grown and become mature. Naging matapang akong harapin lahat ng takot ko.
Naging matatag ako para sa amin ng anak ko.
I am ready to face them.
Handa na akong harapin ang nakaraan ko...
----------------
Anne's Letter: Hello Wifies~! *kaway kaway* Hahaha! Eto yung naisip kong pangalan
ng mga readers ng TMW. HAHAHA! Ang corny kooo! Sarrey! ~.<V
So, here's the update! Sabi ko naman sa inyo diba? By end of May! HAHAHA!
I hope you guys like it. OO! BITIN! Kasi wala pa pong ending. :D Okay lang naman
kahit balikan niyo na lang kapag tapos na. Tsaka niyo na lang basahin kapag tapos
na siya para di kayo mabitin at ma-satisfy kayo. Kasi wala talagang story na 'di
bitin hangga't di pa siya natatapos. Pero THANK YOU sa mga matyagang
naghihintay! :**
I LOVE YOU ALL READERS!!! Silent ka man, active ka man, hater ka man, critic ka man
at kung anong uri ka man ng reader! Mahal na mahal ko kayo! HAHAHA! THANK YOU SA
WALANG SAWANG PAGSUPORTA! <3 <3
yung comments na wala naman daw akong nasulat na bed scene at bakit may anak na si
Leila. HAHAHA! Just read between the lines! Just keep on reading. Hangga't ma gets
mo siya :)) kapag natapos na yung story saka niyo maiintindihan ang mga bagay-
bagay. ^___^
This chapter's dedicated to:

POTCHIESTORIES and to her Mom tita Marilyn Santos. :))
Haha! Sabi ko sa'yo eh, PM me your dedic. ^^ Thank you sa support niyo ng mama mo
sa Story na 'to. I was surprise that even moms read my work. Hehe, I am flattered
po and I hope to see the two of you soon. ;) Sana magustuhan niyo 'to at 'di kayo
magsawang suportahan ang story na 'to hanggang katapusan. Take care and God bless
po! :">
WOOHH! Guys! Kapit lang tayo ha? I know maraming twist and ups and downs ang story
na 'to pero sana kumapit tayo hanggang dulo. Sisikapin kong matapos na 'to ngayong
taon nang magkaroon naman ako ng achievement. HAHAHA!
Hi Eunice and Janelle! *kaway kaway* Niceee~! thank you sa pag-laglag mo sa akin sa
co-officers ko ha? HAHAHA! Yaaan~! May pang-asar na sila sa akin! T^T
Ano kayang mangyayari sa pagbabalik ni Leila?
Next Update: By first or second week of June? Maybe June 7 or 15? I am not sure
pero basta sa first or second week ng June ang next update!
#TheReturn
#TeamPatrick
#TeamJed
#Divorse
God bless everyone~! :">
~ChecheAnne :">s
=================
Chapter 25
AN: Hello wifies~! Can I have a request? I just wanna know kung gaano niyo ka-love
si Chan, si Pat, si Jed at kung gaano kayo kainis kay Amanada. HAHAHA!
300 STARS and 300 COMMENTS
ngayon lang ako hihingi ng request sa inyo. *puppy eyes*

THANK YOU SO MUCH!I LOVE YOU WIFIES! <3 <3
*****
Chapter 25
"Siguro nga dapat na akong magpaka-ama kay Justine." nasaad ni Jed matapos inumin
ang natitirang alak sa kanyang baso.
Napabuntong hininga siya at tinawag ang barista para lagyan muli ng alak ang
kanyang baso. Tinapik-tapik nang marahan ni Spencer ang balikat ng kaibigan. Hindi
niya alam kung ano ang sasabihin sa kaibigan.
It's been seven years mula nang iwan ni Leila si Jed. Pitong taong nawalan nang
buhay ang mundo ni Jed. He was always drinking 'till morning to ease the pain in
his heart. It's a wound that has been there for so long... hindi gumagaling. Hindi
humihilom.
Naka-inom na ng tatlong baso ng alak si Jed.
"Pare, nung nakita ko siya sa Dream Park..." muli niyang inubos ang laman ng baso.
"Biglang bumilis yung tibok ng puso ko. Gusto ko siyang yakapin. Gusto ko siyang
halikan." tuluyang tumulo ang luha sa mga mata nito. "Gusto kong sabihin sa kanyang
mahal na mahal ko parin siya..." isinubsob nito ang mukha sa edge ng stool bar.
"Pero nakita ko kung gaano siya kasaya kay Pat. She's smiling..." Napangiti siya at
inabot naman ng bartender ang pang limang baso niya. "They are one happy family.
They already have a lovely daughter..."
Huminga nang malalim si Spencer. "Eh may anak ka rin naman diba? Nauna ka pa nga
kesa sa kanya!" Natatawa si Spencer sa biro niya sa kaibigan. Napatigil na lamang
siya nang tingnan siya nito ng masama. "Kamusta na nga ba si Justine at Amanda?"
Agad na ininom ni Jed ang laman ng baso. "They're fine. Grade 2 na si Justine.
Amanda's trying hard para matanggap siya ni Mama." napatingin siya sa basong hawak
at pinaikot-ikot niya ang daliri sa baso. "Malapit na pala ang birthday ni
Justine."
"Kamusta kayo ni Amanda?"

Napatingin si Jed sa kaibigang serysong nakatingin din sa kanya. Napangisi si Jed
sa tanong ng kaibigan.
"What are you talking about?"
Napailing-iling si Spencer. Ipinatong niya ang isang kamay sa balikat ng kaibigan.

"Ang ibig kong sabihin, kung mahal mo na ba ulit si Amanda? It's been seven years
na nagpapaka-ina siya sa anak niyo. I can see she's trying her best to become a
mother and a wife to you and Justine."
Mahal? Hindi. Wala na siyang nararamdamang pagmamahal para dito. Galit ang natitira
sa puso niya. Noong dalawang taong iniwan siya ni Leila, sukdulan ang galit niya
kay Amanda. Kahit anong gawing maganda ni Amanda para sa kanya ay binabaliwala niya
at hindi niya ito pinatutunguhan ng maganda.
Amanda even moved into Jed's house... Jed and Leila's former house.
But time passed by, Jed accepted the fact that he has to act like a man. Kailangan
niyang magpaka-ama kay Justine at pakitunguhan si Amanda. He acts as a good father
to Justine. He loves his son so much. Kaya nga kahit labag sa kalooban niya ay
pinakisamahan niya ng maayos si Amanda. Unti-unti ay nawala ang galit sa puso niya.
He learns to accept her as Justine's mother. But there was no love at all. His
heart only beats for Leila... hanggang ngayon ay mahal na mahal parin niya ang
asawa.
Napangisi na lang si Jed sa naalalang nakaraan nila ni Amanda. Yes, he may loved
before that girl but there's nothing left... there's no reason for him to love
Amanda after what she did to him and Leila.
"Pare, I loved Amanda before. But there's nothing left here..." itinuro niya ang
kaliwang dibdib kung saan nakalagay ang kanyang puso. "After what she did.. I could
not learn myself to love her again." Pailing-iling na ininom niya ang alak sa baso.
Napakamot na lang nang ulo si Spencer nang maalalang naka-sampung baso ng alak na
ang naiinom ng kaibigan. Madalas ay nakakaubos ito ng sampung bote kada gabing
nagpupunta ito sa bar niya. Tinapik-tapik nito ang balikat ng kaibigan.
"Pare, you should go home. Amanda might be waiting for you at home. Baka nagaalala
na sa'yo 'yon." nagaalalang sabi ni Spencer.
Natawa lang si Jed at napailing-iling. "Pare naman! Gabi-gabi ka na lang umiinom!

Nakaka-sampung bote ka nang alak tuwing gabi!" napakamot nanaman ng ulo ang
kaibigan. "'Di ka naman nagbabayad! Anak nang! Pitong taon na kaya akong lugi sa
mamahaling alak na iniinom mo!"
Hindi siya pinansin ng kaibigan. Patuloy lang ang pag-inom nito ng alak. Pakiramdam
kasi ni Jed ay nawawala ang mga problema niya kapag nakakainom siya ng alak.
Ibinaba ni Jed ang baso. Huminga siya ng malalim. "Nagkita kami ni Leila sa Hong
Kong noong isang araw." His jaw tightens as he closed his eyes. When he opens it,
tumingin siya sa kaibigan. "I've signed the papers."
Noong una ay hindi maintindihan ng kaibigan kung anong papel ang sinasabi ni Jed.
Inubos muli ni Jed ang laman ng baso niya. He deeply sigh at bakas sa mukha niya
ang kalungkutan. "I've signed the divorse papers. Malapit na kaming mag hiwalay ni
Leila."
Hindi alam ni Spencer ang sasabihin. Tinapik na lang niya ng marahan ang balikat
nito.
"I guess that's the right thing you should do, Jed."
Jed runs his hand through his hair. "Pare, alam kong tama yung ginawa ko... to set
her free."
Dalawang taon na rin mula nang mag-file si Leila ng Divorse. Ayaw niya itong
pirmahan dahil naniniwala pa rin siyang maayos nila ang marriage nila. He believes
that time will come at magkakabalikan pa silang muli. Ngunit pitong taon itong 'di
nagpakita sa kanya.
He followed the two at Cebu, he found himself fooled. Wala pala talaga si Pat at
Leila sa Cebu. They've just stayed there for a day and moved in abroad. Hindi niya
alam kung saan na ito nagpunta or kung maayos ba ang kalagayan ng asawa niya. But
he never lose hope to see her again. Umaasa itong magkikita muli silang dalawa.
Strings of fate really binds them again. Hindi niya inaasahang makita si Leila sa
Dream Park. Ikinabigla nga lang niya nang makitang may anak na si Pat at Leila.
Sobra siyang nasaktan noong araw na 'yon. Naglaho ang paniniwala niyang
magkakabalikan pa silang muli. Then he realize that this is the right time para
pakawalan na niya si Leila.
Sa Hong Kong, he is expecting to see Leila. Noong una ay nagaalinlangan siya kung
tama ba ang gagawin niya. He have signed the papers she's been wanting for over two
years. Then he saw Sabrina and Patrick, parang sinaksak ng paulit-ulit ang puso
niya habang nakikitang masaya ito. Hindi siya makahinga. Napakasakit.
Napangiti na lang siya nang makita niyang kamukhang-kamukha ni Leila ang anak. He
realize that it was time for them to let things burried in the past. Afterall,
hindi na siya bata. He's going 31 and hindi na rin bagay para sa edad niya ang mga
ganoong bagay. He had grown up like a real man. Now he has to act like one.
"Pero masakit para sa akin na pakawalan siya... Mahal na mahal ko si Leila."

*****
"Mommy? Is this our new house?" Sabrina says as they landed at that huge house.
Buhat-buhat siya ng kanyang ama habang hawak naman ni Leila ang bag ni Sabrina. She
smiles at her daughter and nod.
Nagsalubong ang kilay ng bata. "It's so big. It was just as big as my doll house."
"Why you look like that sweetheart?" nagaalalang tanong ni Leila sa anak.
"It's too big mommy. I might get loss inside that house!"
Pat chuckles and kiss his daughter's cheeks. "No princess! Tama lang ang isang
palasyo para sa isang prinsesang katulad mo."
Pumasok na sila sa loob ng Mansion. It was the old house of the Tan family. Nag
move na kasi sa California ang family ni Patrick. Pinapalago kasi nila ang negosyo
nila doon. They're main focus right now is that place at palakasin ang market ng
kanilang hotel even though their base was here in the Philippines.
"Bakit dito na tayo titira Mommy?" nasa sala sila ngayon.
Tinulungan naman ni Pat ang mga kasambahay sa paghakot ng maleta nila. Iniupo ni
Leila ang anak sa sofa.
"I know sweety. Mahirap para sa'yo ang lumipat ng tirahan. We've been there at Cebu
for two years." she rubs her daughters shoulders gently. She kisses her forehead
and smile at her little angel. "But Mommy's work now is here in Manila na."
Nakasimangot parin si Sabrina. Hinawi naman ni Leila ang ilang hibla ng buhok ni
Sab na tinatakpan ang napakagandang mukha ng anak.
"Hindi mo ba gustong tumira dito? Look oh..." She put her one hand gently on her
daughter's chin para tumingin ito sa kanya. "Parati mo nang makikita si Daddy mo if
we lived in here."
Sab's eyes sparks. "Talaga Mommy? I can see Daddy everyday?"
Leila nod smiling at her daughter. "Yes honey, Daddy can play with you all day! He
can also read you bed time stories every night."
"Yeahay! We can be all together in one house na!" 'di mapigilan ni Sabrina na hindi
pumalakpak sa tuwa. She hug her mom so tight and planted sweet little kisses on her
cheeks.
"I love you mommy!"
Pat suddenly clears his throat. Napatingin ang mag-ina niya sa kanya.
"Bakit si Daddy walang kiss?" paglalambing nito sa kanilang munting anghel.
Sab giggles and run towards her dad and hugs him.
Binuhat ni Patrick ang anak. "Wala bang kiss si Daddy?"
Sab giggles once more. "I love you Daddy!" and then she planted sweet little kisses
on his daddy's cheeks.
Inayos nilang tatlo ang kuwarto ni Sabrina. They played all they at the garden.
Nang sumapit ang gabi ay ipinag timpla naman ni Leila ang anak ng gatas habang nasa
kuwarto na ito kasama ang ama't binabasahan ng stories.
"And they lived happily ever after." Nadatnan na lamang ni Leila na tapos na pala
ang binabasang story ni Pat. "The end."
Napahikab na si Sabrina. her eyes were sleepy.
Ipinainom muna nila sa anak ang gatas at tuluyan na itong nakatulog.
Inayos ni Pat ang kumot habang inilalagay naman ni Leila sa shelf ang librong
binasa ni Patrick. Hinalikan niya sa noo ang anak at pinatay ang ilaw. Tuluyan nang
umalis ang dalawa at nagtungo na ng Master's bedroom.
Nasa banyo si Pat habang nakahiga na sa kama si Leila at nagbabasa ng libro. After
he brush his teeth he finally joined Leila on bed. He put his one arm around
Leila's shoulder.
"I guess nakapag-adjust na si Sab dito sa bahay." Pat says and kisses Leila's
temple.
isinara ni Leila ang librong binabasa at inilapag ito sa side table. She hugs him
at umayos ng higa. She places her head on his chest.
"I hope Sab can also adjust in her new school." nagaalalang sabi ni Leila para sa
anak.
Sab have just starting to adjust at Cebu. It's been two years since they have
decided na doon tumira. Seven years ago lumipad sila papuntang Cebu para sa isang
business matters. Isang araw lang ang itinagal nila doon and then lumipad na sila
papuntang California. Doon ipinanganak si Sab. Leila enrolled culinary course and
after she graduated ay bumalik sila ng Cebu at doon na nanirahan sa loob ng
dalawang taon. They've just starting their Restaurant there in Cebu. Kaya malaking
sakripisyo para kay Leila ang pagbalik sa Manila. She left the business to her
manager. Nangako naman si Leila na bibisita doon once a month and she'll keep
updated sa status ng business nila through phone calls.
Pat kisses her forehead. "I am sure our Princess will do great at school."
Napangiti si Leila sa sinabi ng partner niya. "Yeah, Sab's a great kid."
She couldn't ask for more... all she wanted was her only daughter. Labis ang tuwa
ni Leila nang maipanganak niya si Sabrina. It was her pride and joy. She loves her
daughter so much. Sab's a great kid. She's different from Leila. Achiever, bright,
clever and a talented kid. She's polite and bubbly. Proud mommy si Leila sa anak.
And she'll do anything for her daughter to be happy.
Maagang gumising si Leila para ipaghanda ang mag-ama niya ng almusal. Rice
omelette, toasted garlic bread, milk and orange juice ang ihinanda niya.
"Good morning Mommy!" masiglang bati ni Sabrina.
"Good morning sweety! You should eat your breakfast na." inalalayan ni Leila ang
anak sa pagupo sa hapagkainan. "Where's Daddy?"
"Daddy's still fixing his tie Mommy. Will Daddy can come with me at school?"
Lumuhod si Leila para magkasing height na sila ng anak at ipinatong ako isang kamay
sa ulo nito. She was gently combing her daughter's hair as she smiles.
"Yes sweetheart. Si Daddy na maghahatid sa'yo sa school. Mommy can't come kasi I
have to go to work today."
Masayang napa-palakpak naman si Sabrina. "Yeahay! Daddy will drive me to school!"
Bigla namang lumitaw si Pat mula sa side and wraps his hands around Leila's waist.
"Good morning." sweet yeat sensual ang pagbulong ni Pat sa tainga ni Leila.
Leila couldn't help but smile. Nakaramdam siya ng kilig sa sinabi ni Pat.
"Good morning." sweet ring reply ni Leila. Pat kisses one side of her cheeks na
nakaharap sa kanyang mukha.
Kumalas na si Patrick sa pagkakayakap dito at umupo sa tabi ni Sabrina.
"Hmm, mukhang masarap 'to ah!" saad ni Patrick as he looks what's on the table.
Leila giggles. "Syempre ako ang nagluto eh."
Ipinaglagay ni Leila si Pat ng rice omelette at isang slice ng toasted bread sa

plato nito. Pat looks at her smiling. "Thank you, hon."
Leila smile at him. Sinabayan ni Leila ang kanyang mag-ama sa pagkain.
"Bye Mommy!" Sab said her goodbyes to her mom.
Inalalayan ni Leila sa pagsakay sa kotse ang anak. Inabot ni Leila sa anak ang
lunch box at hinalikan ito sa pisngi. "Be a good girl, okay?"
Sab just giggle as she nods.
Isinara na ni Leila ang pinto nang kotse. Sinalubong naman ng yakap ni Patrick si
Leila. Hinalikan niya ito sa pisngi.
"Heto na baon mo." iniabot ni Leila ang pack lunch na ihinanda niya para kay Pat.
Pat smiles genuine. "I miss this..." Pat's arms are still wrap on Leila's waist.
Napakunot naman ang noo ni Leila. "Miss what?"
Pat shrugs. Kinuha niya yung pack lunch sa kamay ni Leila. "I miss you making lunch
for me."
Bigla namang naalala ni Leila yoong mga panahong 'yon. Her college days kung saan
hobby lang niya ang pagluluto... when the time she always makes lunch for Patrick.
Bigla naman niyang naalala 'yung una at huling beses niya ginawan ng pack lunch si
Jed.
She easily pulled herslef into reality. Nginitian na lang niya si Patrick. Hindi
nga niya alam kung may sinabi ba ito or kung gaano siya katagal na tulala.
"Mag ingat ka sa pagd-drive." paalala ni Leila.

Niyakap na lang niya si Pat. Then he kisses her on forehead.
"I will. Goodluck on your first day." ani Patrick.
Leila just nod at him. Pinagmasdan niya ito habang naglalakad pasakay ng sasakyan.
Sinundan niya ng tingin ang kotse hanggang makalabas ito ng gate.
Leila breathes deeply. Is she really ready to face him?
Handa na nga ba siyang harapin ng pormal si Jed?
Napagusapan na nila ni Patrick ang bagay na ito noong isang gabi. It's been a week
mula nang lumipat sila sa Manila. Nakapag adjust na si Sabrina sa bagong lugar at
sa bago niyang school. Nanibago naman si Leila sa bago nilang tinitirahan. It's
bigger than what they have there in Cebu. Naninibago rin siya dahil marami silang
kasamang kasambahay sa habay. Before iisa lang ngayon ay nadagdagan pa ito ng apat.
Kaya wala nang gawaing bahay ang nagagawa ni Leila. Sa pagluluto na lang siya
nakakabawi sa kanyang mag-ama.
Nagbihis na si Leila.
Humarap siya sa body mirror upang tingnan ang sarili. Hindi niya kasi alam kung
bagay sa kanya ang suot na damit. She looks like a secretary with her corporate
attire. Peach blouse na chiffone and a black pencil skirt ibinagay niya ang kanyang
black pumps sa suot. She put on her white coat and grabs her bag.
Dumiretsyo siya ng garahe at binuksan ang pintuan ng kotse. She starts to drive at
Sy Corp. getting really nervous. Kinakabahan siya sa mangyayari. Ang totoo'y hindi
niya alam kung paano ba magtrabaho sa loob ng kumpanya. She was never trained to
handle a company. Ang alam lang ni Leila ay kung anong klaseng negosyo ang
pinapasukan ng kumpanya nila Jed.
They like investing on real estates and malls. Kung ang pamilya ni Patrick ay more
on sa hotel, ang mga Sy naman ay mahilig magtayo ng executive villages and
subdivisions. PInasok na rin nila ngayon ang malls and supermarkets. They have many
branches all over the Philippines. Even in Cebu ay meron silang mall at isang
subdivision.
Nang marating ni Leila ang building ay nakaramdam siya ng takot. Gusto niyang
umatras at umuwi na lang ngunit hindi pwede. Nang makababa naman siya ng sasakyan
ay agad siyang pumasok sa loob ng building. She directly went at the receptionist.
"I'm Liela Sy." pakilala niya sa receptiionist.
Saglit lang at may tiningnan sa computer ang babae. Then she motioned her to go at
the elevator. "Hinihintay na po kayo Madame Sy sa conference room."
Nginitian ni Leila ang babae at nagpasalamat.
She walks towards the elevator. Kada tumataas ang floor ay nadaragdagan ang kaba
niya sa dibdib. Agad naman niyang nakita ang Mama ni Jed na kausap ang secretary.
Nang mapansin naman siya ng kanyang Mama ay agad siyang nilapitan at niyakap.
"How are you doing here in Manila?" tanong sa kanya ng kanyang Mama.
Ngumiti si Leila as she held her mother-in-law's hands. "Okay lang po Mama. Medyo
naga-adjust lang po ako ngayon dito sa Manila." She sigh as she was having a hard
time to talk about it. "It's been a very long time..." inilibot ni Leila ang mata
sa office.
Hinawakan ng kanyang Mama ang mga pisngi nito. She smiles at her daughter. "I know
dear..." tila pinipigilan nitong umiyak. "It's been a long time."
Niyakap siyang muli ng kanyang Mama. "I'm glad that you're back."
"Ako rin Mama... I am happy... to see you again."
"Come, let's go inside the conference room. Kanina ka pa nila hinihintay." hinila
si Leila ng kanyang Mama papunta sa loob ng conference room.
Huminga si Leila ng malalim habang naglalakad na sila papasok. She was preparing
herself. Kinakabahan kasi siya. Hindi niya alam kung sino ang mga tao sa loob ng
room. It's a board meeting and she can't believe herself na makakasama siya rito.
It's been years since she went inside that building. To be there again makes her
remember how painful it was. Hindi niya makakalimutan ang mga alaala niya noong
huling pumunta sa building na ito. The time that Jed and Amanda has been fooling
her.
Naninikip ang dibdib niya as she remembers it. All those painful memories. It all
brings back.
Hindi na niya namalayang nasa loob na pala sila ng conference room. She was already
been introduced by her mother-in-law to the board members.
She just smile habang nakatingin ang mga board sa kanya at pinapalakpakan. As if
they were observing her-- the new member of the board. He saw Jed on the side
looking at him seriously. Nawala ang ngiti niya nang magtama ang mga mata nila. As
if they were the only ones inside that room. As if their eyes are talking, saying
that they wanted to be with each other... how they've longed for each other.
Umupo na siya sa tabi ng kanyang Mama for a round table discussion. Jed was sitting
at the middle.
"We are now in crisis. Hindi naging maganda ang epekto ng balita sa StarHomes. We
might lose a lot of clients kung magpapatuloy ang balitang 'yon." Ani Mr. Carlos--
one of the board members.
Lately, ibinalita sa mga news na hindi safe ang Village dahil sa gumagalang serial
killer sa loob. StarHomes was one of the best executive villages in the nation.
High class kung maituturing at mga kilalang tao ang tumitira dito. Mostly ay mga
artista at mayayamang tao. Kaya malaking kawalan kapag hindi pa nila nasolusyunan
ang bagay na ito. They might have loss some shares and investors.
Natagpuan kasing patay ang isang singer-artist sa kanyang bahay at ayon sa

investigators ay nilooban ito. Nakakalat kasi ang mga gamit nito sa bahay at may
mga nawawalang pagaari ng Singer. Ibinalita sa mga news papers and televisions na
'di umano'y may umaaligid na masamang tao sa StarHomes at hindi safe sa loob ng
Village.
Unti-unti na ring nagb-back out ang mga investors dahil rito. They really have to
do something quickly bago pa tuluyang masira ang image ng kumpanya at ng StarHomes.
Napatingin si Leila kay Jed who was seriously listening sa mga daing sa kanilang
problema sa company. She can still sees the old Jed even though they've grown ages
he still has that effect on her. Kahit na tinubuan na ito ng bigote. She still has
this feelings for the man.
"What do you think Mr. Sy? What should we do?" anang isa sa mga board.
Biglang naalimpungatan si Leila sa pagiisip ng malalim. Everyone was looking at Jed

who's in a deep thinking. Napakalalim ng iniisip nito at nakapikit habang
nakapatong ang isang kamay sa kanyang sintido.
A few moments later, Jed opens his eyes. He leaned on his chair and play the pen on
his hand.
"First, we should check our Security Personels." tila tumigil sa pagtibok ang puso
ni Leila nang tingnan siya ni Jed nang napaka-talim. He was damn serious. His eyes
were focus on hers as if he was taking that chance to get his stregnth by looking
at her. "Dapat nating alamin ang backgrounds ng mga personel natin sa StarHomes. I
think doon nagsimula ang problemang 'to. We should also add cameras sa bawat
streets and posts." he says as he walks in front of everyone.
Ipinatong ni Jed ang mga kamay sa round table. "We add securities, we should create
a new commercial for StarHomes." naglakad siyang muli pabalik naman ng upuan. He
sits and look again at Leila. Their eyes met each other's. "We should create a
campaign advertisement about how safe and secure in our village."
nagsi-tanguan naman ang mga board members sa mga sinabi ng kanilang President &
CEO. While Jed was still looking at Leila. Para bang naguusap ang kanilang mga
mata.
Matapos noon ay unti-unti nang nagsi-alisan ang mga board members.
"Leila, you should eat with me hija." aya nang kanyang Mama.
Tumango lang si Leila at inakbayan na siya ng kanyang Mother-in-law. Nagkasabay

silang tatlo ni Jed palabas ng conference room.
"Jed! Anak, let's eat together!" hinila nito ang kanyang anak na si Jed.
The two can feel the awkwardness surrounds the room. Jed clears his throat.
"I'm sorry Mama but I have to do some planning. I need to get in touch with our HR
and the staffs in the Marketing and Planning department." tila pagod na pagod ang
mukha nito.
Sumimangot naman ang mukha ng kanyang ina. "You really are ignoring me now anak.
How could you?"
Tila nakaramdam naman ng kaba si Leila. Why does her Mama keeps on pushing them?
Malapit na silang maghiwalay dalawa for real. But their mother was still determined
para muli silang magkabalikan.
Napangiti na lang si Jed sa kanyang ina. "I'm sorry Ma. I am really busy right
now." ibinaling ni Jed ang kanyang tingin kay Leila. He half smiles at her wife.
"Welcome to the company Leila. It's been a while since you've visit here."
Para bang sinaksak ang puso ni Leila. Jed looks at her with that numb expression.
Para bang bumabalik muli yung masasakit na nangyari noon. Yung panahong nakita niya
si Jed at Amanada na naghahalikan.
Napatango na lang si Leila. She can't even utter a single word. Napaka-awkward ng
sitwasyon nila ngayon.
"I-I have to go." ani Jed at nagmadali nang lumabas ng conference room matapos
halikan sa pisngi ang kanyang ina.
Gustong umiyak ni Liela. Tila nawalan siya ng mga buto sa tuhod at gusto na lang
niyang mapaluhod. But she can't. Ayaw niyang ipakitang naapektuhan parin siya. This
is the hardest thing she have to do... she have to live without him.
Huminga siya ng malalim. She smiles at her Mama and they walk out of the building
to eat in a Chinese restaurant.
*****
Until now, I still love you...
Nasaad ni Jed nang makarating siya ng kanyang office. Umupo siya sa kanyang swivel
chair at inilapag sa table ang folder na hawak. He closed his eyes as he lay his
head and sigh deeply.
It was hard for him seeing Leila at the company. Lalo na kanina that they are
having conversations about the problems in the company. But still, he take it as
his strength. Naging lakas niya si Leila kanina sa pagharap sa board members.
He slowly opens his eyes. He can remembers Leila sitting there at the sofa smiling
at her. Napabuntong hininga nanaman siya.
No, this can't be. He can't love her anymore. He already decided to let her go...
for good. It's for the sake of the both of them. May mga kanyang pamilya na silang
binubuo and it's time to take care of it.
Tinapos niya ang trabaho sa office. Almost 8 pm na nang umalis siya ng office. He
drives directly at Holly Republic-- Spencer's bar. Agad siyang pumunta sa counter
and order some drinks. Ilang saglit pa ay sumulpot na lang si Jasper sa gilid at
umorder na rin ng kanyang inumin.
"'Sup bro?" bati ni Jasper rito nang makaupo na. Iginala muna niya ang mata sa
buong bar. There's a live band now and they're playing a sad love song.
Naibagsak ng malakas ni Jed ang baso matapos ubusin ang alak kaya't naagaw nito ang
atensyon ni Jasper. Napakunot ang noo ng kaibigan. Halatang may pinagdaraanan
nanaman ang kaibigan. Pero hindi na siya nagtaka rito. Pitong taon nang paulit-ulit
ang problemang pinagdaraanan ni Jed. And as years passed by, lalo itong tumitindi.
Napailing na lang si Jasper. Dumating na ang order niya. "What's your problem
dude?" maang tanong nito sa kaibigang ngyaon ay lugmok na lugmok na.
Jed runs his hand through his hair. "Leila... she's back here in Manila. She's part
of the company now."
Naawa siya sa kaibigan. Hanggang ngayon ay miserable parin ito mula nang iwan siya
ni Leila. Napakasakit para rito ang nangyari. He become lifeless. Nawalan siya nang
buhay. Trabaho, alak at si Justine lang ang inatupag nito mula pa noon.
Naparami na ng inom si Jed. "Hindi ko alam kung paano ko siya haharapin..."

Sumubsob nanaman ito. "I don't know how I can hide my feelings for her... I still
love her." Jed looks at Jasper and smile bitterly. "I am still madly inlove with
Leila."
Bigla namang sumulpot ang may-ari ng bar na si Spencer. Tinapik niya ang balikat ni
Jasper at sinamahan ang mga kaibigan sa paginom. Napailing na lang si Spencer
habang tinitingnan ang kaibigang si Jed na miserableng umiinom. Sa inaraw-araw na
ginawa ng Diyos, parati na lang ganito si Jed. He's still hasn't moving on ever
since.
The three just drink. Sinamahan nila ang kaibigan sa pagpapakalasing at

pagpapakalunod sa alak.
HINDI na mapakali si Amanda. Wala pa rin kasi si Jed sa bahay. Tinawagan niya ang
secretary nito at nalaman niyang kanina pang alas otso umalis ito ng building. Ang
daming pumapasok sa isipan niya.
What if nagkita si Leila at Jed?
Napailing siya sa naiisip. She must find a way para mapabilis ang proseso ng
divorse ng dalawa. At kailangan na niyang gumawa ng paraan para maging ganap na Sy
na si Justine. She was also determined para maging apelyido na rin niya ang Sy.
She'll do anything just to make Jed hers only. She's still that selfish woman.
She'll do everything para lang sa gusto niya.
Nakatulog na siya sa paghihintay kay Jed. Nagising na lang siya nang maramdaman ang
sikat ng araw sa kanyang mukha. Napatingin siya sa orasan. It's already 6 in the
morning.
Nagising siyang mag-isa sa kama. Wala si Jed.
Agad siyang bumaba sa sala at nakita si Jed na nakasalampak sa sofa at tulog na

tulog.
"Jed, wake up." paulit-ulit niyang niyu-yugyog si Jed. Hindi pa rin ito gumigising.
"Jed, please wake up!"
Napakunot ang noo ni Jed. Sobrang sakit ng ulo niya. Sobrang dami nang nainom niya
kagabi. Lalo lang siyang nainis nang bumungad sa kanya si Amanda. Agad siyang
bumangon habang nakahawak parin sa masakit niyang ulo habang si Amanda naman ay
masama ang tingin sa kanya.
"You should tell me kung iinom ka." naglakad siya papuntang kusina at kumuha ng
isang basong tubig at gamot. She walks towards back to Jed. "Edi sana sinamahan
kita. Just like the old times."
Inilapag niya ang baso ng tubig at gamot sa table.
"No. You should just stay here and take care of Justine." Nakahawak parin sa ulo si
Jed.
Jed takes the medicine. Somehow ay gumaan ang pakiramdam niya. Amanda sit beside
him and place her hands on Jed's shoulder. Agad naman itong inalis ni Jed.
Nakaramdam naman ng inis si Amanda sa ginawa ni Jed.
"I'm gonna take a shower. Where's Justine?" Jed says.
Amanda rolled her eyes. "He's still asleep." Tumayo si Jed sa pagkakaupo sa sofa at
akmang aakyat ng kuwarto ng tawagin ni Amanda ang kanyang pangalan. "Justine's not
feeling well last night, Jed."
Agad na nakaramdam ng pagaalala si Jed para sa anak. He looks at Amanda.
"Please, 'Wag ka na muna pumasok ngayon. Stay with us..."
"Hindi mo ba pinainom ng gamot si Justine?" pagaalalang tanong ni Jed.
"Pinainom ko na siya kagabi. Ikaw ang hinahanap niya kagabi." tumayo si Amanda. She
places her hands on Jed's shoulders. "Please, Jed kailangan ka ng anak mo...
kaialangan ka namin ng anak mo." halos tumulo na ang luha sa mga mata ni Amanda.
Huminga ng malalim si Jed. "Sorry, I can't. Uuwi na lang ako agad. Marami pa akong
kailangang asikasuhin sa company." He gives her that assurance smile.
Naglakad na si Jed paakyat ng hagdanan.
"Does Leila always visit the Office?" Amanda suddenly utters.
Napatigil sa pag-akyat ng hagdanan si Jed. He looks at her puzzled.
"No. She was just introduced yesterday. She's part of the board but no position in
the Company."
"So, pupunta ulit siya mamaya? Magkikita kayo mamaya?" Amanda's tone becoming more
demanding.
Napakunot ang noo ni Jed. He has no time for Amanda's blabbers. Pagod na siya sa
trabaho at mga problema ng kumpanya at sa sariling problema. Ayaw na niyang
madagdagan ang problema pa niya para lang sumakit pa lalo ang ulo.
"Amanda, please stop. I have no time for your nonsense." at umakyat na si Jed
papuntang kuwarto ng anak.
Sinilip niya si Justine. Natutulog ito ng mahimbing. He walks towards his son's
bed. Inayos niya ang kumot ng anak at hinalikan ito sa noo.
"I love you, son." at tuluyan na siyang umalis ng kuwarto ng anak at nagtungo sa
sariling kuwarto.
Bago pa siya makapasok ng kuwarto ay napatingin siya sa katapat ng pintuan ng

kanyang kuwarto. He remembers Leila. It was Leila's room before...
Ngayon ay kuwarto na ito ni Amanda. Hindi nagtatabi sa iisang kama si Jed at

Amanda. It's their set-up for seven years.
Pumasok na si Jed ng kuwarto at nag-shower. Nagbihis na siya at handa na muling

pumasok ng office. Agad siyang umalis ng bahay at nag-drive papunta ng opisina. He
can't take to stay inside that house anymore. Kung hindi lang dahil kay Justine ay
hindi siya magt-tiyagang pakisamahan si Amanda hanggang ngayon.
Responsibility. Ayon na lang ang namamagitan sa kanilang dalawa ni Amanda.
*****
"Zeek, have you talk to Miss Montecarlo? Is she interested with our proposal?" agad
na tanong ni Jed sa kanyang executive assistant.
"Sir, Miss Montecarlo wants a meeting with you after lunch."
"May schedule ba ako today ng 1 o'clock?" agad na binuklat ng kanyang assistant ang
planner para tingnan ang schedule nito ng ganoong oras.
"Vacant po kayo ng 1:00-3:00 in the afternoon. Shall I set the meeting with Miss
Montecarlo today Sir?"
Kinuha ni Jed ang ilang folders na nakapatong sa kanyang table. "Yes, please Zeek.
Set our meeting in a nearest restaurant or where she likes."
"Yes sir." Umalis na ang kanyang assistant.
He was now alone at his office doing some paper works. Reviewing the Financial
Statements bago i-release sa board. Looking at the profiles of some profitable
investors. In his mind, he has to win Miss Montecarlo. The M&G Group of Company is
one of the largest succssesful leading company sa bansa. He needs that Company to
invest in StarHomes. It's one good tactic if he wins the meeting this afternoon.
Malaking impact sa iba pang investors kung malalaman nilang nag invest ang M&G sa
StarHomes, that can be the basis of the other investors and they'll still invest sa
StarHomes.
Exact 1 o'clock Jed had finally finishes his work and set off his foot out of the
office going down at the basement parking. He starts the engine and drives his car
sa restaurant na napili ni Miss Montecarlo na ganapin ang meeting. He's not
familliar with the restaurant dahil katatayo lang nito.
He arrived at exact 1:30 and parked his car. Pagbukas ng pintuan ng resto ay
sinalubong na siya agad ng isang waiter.
"The reservation for Miss Montecarlo and Mr Sy." casual na sabi ni Jed.
"This way, Sir." the waiter guide him towards the table.
Napansin niyang wala pa si Miss Montecarlo. Umupo na siya.
"Would you like some glass of water while waiting, Sir?" anang waiter na naghatid
sa kanya sa table.
"Yes, please."
Umalis ang waiter para kumuha ng isang basong tubig. Napatingin naman si Jed sa
kanyang relo. It was already 1:32 pm. Miss Montecarlo was surely late.
Ilang minuto pa ang lumipas at dumating na si Miss Montecarlo.
Wearing a floral dress with that peach wedge and a peach hand bag. Miss Montecarlo
was smiling as she walks towards Jed's table. Tumayo si Jed para salubungin ang
dalaga.
"Sorry I'm late."
Jed smiles and reach for his hands at Miss Montecarlo. They shake their hands for a
second.
"It's nice to see you, Miss Montecarlo." Jed can't hide his relief.
Kilala si Miss Montecarlo sa pagi-indian nito sa ibang ka-meeting niya. She does it
every time she do a background check of the company and the person she'll be
meeting. Masyado pa kasi siyang bata para maging President ng M&G. She just turned
19 months ago and now she's taking over little by little. Jed was on training when
he turned 18 and takes over when he turned 20. Jessica Marie Montecarlo was the
youngest entrep in the business world.
Hinila ni Jed ang bangko as Miss Montecarlo sits.
"Thank you, Mr Sy." she said with greatness.
Bumalik na si Jed sa kanyang upuan at sumenyas sa waiter para bigyan sila ng menu.
"Kanina pa po ba kayo? I'm sorry, na-traffic kami ng bodyguard ko. Late na kasi
kami pinalabas ng professor." She explains.
Iniabot ng waiter ang menu kay Jed at ang isa naman ay kay Miss Montecarlo.
"It's fine Miss Montecarlo. What shall we order?" ani Jed.
"I'll have what you want Mr Sy." she says plainly.
Sinabi ni Jed ang order niya at umalis na ang waiter dala ang menu na kanina'y
hawak nila.
"So tell me Mr. Sy, what are your new plans for the StarHome?" Miss Montecarlo
says as she puts her hands on her chin and place her elbows on the table looking
astonish at Jed.
Jed exhales before he starts talking. "Well.. What do you want from StarHome, Miss
Montecarlo?"
She smiles at Jed. "Well, I'll invest for two reasons." She leans at the back of
her chair and smile. "I'm interested on you and your skills, Mr. Sy. I believe you
can do great things for your company at alam kong hindi masasayang ang investment
ko..." biglang kumunot ang noo ni Miss Montecarlo. "Pero, at this time... hindi
ba't malaking yung risk na malugi at tuluyang bumagsak ang StarHomes dahil sa mga
kumakalat na controversies dito? We both know that our company can save yours. What
are your stand against those Mr. Sy?"
"Thank you for your compliments about me Miss Montecarlo." He leans at the back of
his chair too. He smiles at her and relax himself. "Our company, is doing the best
that we can to save it. We are maybe in the downward position right now but I do
have high hopes that we can bring it right on top again. Inilatag namin lahat ng
strategies and solutions para matugunan ang problema. Maybe your investment is at
risk as of now..." Jed leans forward the table. "But together, we can lessen the
risk and make it even more profitable."
Miss Montecarlo smiles at Jed. "It's beyond what I am expecting for Mr. Sy. Very
well said."
"So what are your conditions Miss Montecarlo?" Jed's tone was provocative.
Miss Montecarlo's lips curves a smile. At dumating rin ang kanilang pagkain.
"Let's have our meal first, Mr. Sy." ani Miss Montecarlo.
Tumigil sila sa pagu-usap tungkol sa negosyo but Miss Montecarlo was more
interested on Jed's personal life.
"I've heard you already have a family, Mr. Sy..." she says before chewing her meal.
"So, how was your relationship with them?"
Jed smirks habang hinihiwa ang shrimp tempura na kanyang in-order.
"It's way complicated than my problem at the company, Miss Montecarlo." iiling-
iling na sabi ni Jed.
"But you're still married with your former wife, right?"
"Yes. But our divorse papers are now in process." natigilan si Jed. Hanggang ngayon
ay iniisip niya parin kung tama ba ang desisyong ginawa.
"You still love her, don't you Mr. Sy?"
"Yes, I still in loved with her..." He looks at Miss Montecarlo looking pitty on
him. "I still love Leila."
Miss Montecarlo smiles genuinely at Jed. Ipinagpatuloy na lang nila ang pagkain ng
tahimik hanggang sa matapos sila.
"This is a nice restaurant, don't you think Mr. Sy?" She says as she romes her eyes
around the place.
Napatungo si Jed bilang pagsang-ayon. Totoong napakaganda ng restaurant na ito.

They don't just have this refreshing look. It combines the Western and Asian dishes
together.
"I'd like this restaurant. Gusto kong magkaroon ng branch itong restaurant na 'to
sa loob ng StarHomes."
Napatango pang muli si Jed. Sangayon si Jed sa idea ng dalaga. They can build it
inside the club area.
"We can contact the owner of this restaurant--"
"I am sure you know who's the owner Mr. Sy" Jed looks puzzled.
She smiles at Jed then suddenly someone had caught her attention. "There she is..."
Agad na tumayo si Miss Montecarlo at sinalubong naman siya ng tingin ni Jed.

Nagulat si Jed nang makita kung sino ang kaharap ni Miss Montecarlo.
"Mr. Sy, I'd like you to meet the owner of these restaurant..." hinila ni Miss
Montecarlo ang may-ari palapit sa table nia ni Jed.
"This is Leila Chan-Sy. The owner of these restaurant."
**********
Sometimes the wrong choices bring us to the right places...
**********
Hello wifies! Sorry! Sorry! Sorry! Superrr Sorryyyy! Yes, sabi ko July 7 or 15 pero
anong petsya na? HUHUHUHU! PARDON ME!!! >/\< As much as I want to post but I have
no time. :((
but here's the update. Won't gonna promise any date anymore. It makes me pressured
as if I am responsible for posting an update. This isn't my work. It's just a
hobby. Pampawala ng stress.
Though I have a goal trying finishing it before graduation! \^o^/ I am trying my

best to post at least twice a month. HOHO. As for you wifies, stay put lang kayo
ha? Pwede rin namang antayin nyo na lang kapag tapos na. HAHA! But promise, malapit
na talaga siyang matapos. :))
Study hard wifies okay?
Panahon nanaman ng tagulan. Good luck waterproofs! T^T
THANK YOU GUYS! I LOVE YOU ALL! <3 <3
I dedicated this chapter to my Kambal!!!
Hi Kambal! HAHA! Sabi mo pa-dedic. eto naaaa! I love youuuu! :** Advance birthday
gift? HAHAHA! LOL! See you at school! ;)
God bless everyone!
~ChecheAnne :">
��!��e
=================
Chapter 26
Chapter 26
"You're beautiful mommy!" ani Sabrina sa kanyang ina as she walks down the stairs.
Ngumiti si Leila sa anak at sinalubong ito sa hagdanan. "Bakit naman nagising na

ang baby ko?" She kisses Sab on her cheeks.
Sab giggles.
"Where are you going mommy?" kinusot-kusot pa nito ang mga mata.
"Mommy's going to work. You'll stay muna with your yaya okay?" Sab nods.
Leila kisses Sab's cheeks. "Babalik agad si mommy okay?"
Umalis na ng bahay si Leila at nag-drive papunta sa kanyang restaurant. It's

Saturday yet she has to visit her restaurant to check it.
It's almost 2:30 nang makarating siya.
Agad siyang binati ng kanyang mga empliyado. Sinalubong siya ng kanyang assistant.
"Ma'am, nandito po si Miss Montecarlo."
Leila looks at her assistant puzzled. "She's looking for me?"

"Not actually Ma'am. Meron po siyang ka-meeting ngayon. Si Mr. Sy of Sy
Corporation."
Biglang tumibok ng mabilis ang puso niya. Bakit sa dinamirami pa ng restaurant ay

dito pa talaga mapapadpad itong si Jed?
Papasok na sana siya ng office nang may tumawag sa kanya.
It's Jessica Marie Montecarlo.
Jessica was her long lost cousin. Ang nanay nilang dalawa ay magkapatid. Leila's
mother was the eldest of the three Montecarlo sisters. Nagrebelde ang mama ni Leila
when she was in college dahil ayaw ng Lolo niya sa kanyang ama.
Sa tulong ni Patrick at sa impormasyon na galing sa kanyang ate Mei ay nahanap niya

ang tungkol sa pamilya ng kanyang ina. Matagal na rin pala siyang hinahanap ng
kanyang Lolo. They have met at Canada years ago bago pa ito pumanaw.
Kaya ngayon ay pinaghahatian nila ng kanyang pinsang si Jessica ang mga ari-arian
ng kanilang Lolo. Some real estates and ranch was inherited by Leila. Pero ang M&G
at ang Mansyon ay sole property ni Jessica. She and Leila where in good terms. They
loved each other at parang kapatid na rin ang turingan nila. She treats Leila as
her big sister.
Hindi naririnig ni Leila ang sinasabi ni Jessica. She was just looking at her soon-
to-be ex-husband. It was like they were the only people in that place.
Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ni Leila.
"And she's my one and only cousin." biglang natauhan si Leila.
"I didn't expect you to be here..." she was pertaining to Jessica and Jed.
Hindi nasabi ni Leila kay Jessica ang tungkol sa kay Jed. But now how Jessica looks
at them, she knows that she have done her research about Jed at malamang ay nalaman
niya ang tungkol sa nakaraan nila.
Jessica will be thrilled to ask a lot of questions from her cousin!
Jessica wraps her arms around Leila like a child. "Of course I want everyone to
know your restaurant, ate!" and Jessica laughs.
Agad siyang tumigil nang maramdaman niya ang atmosphere sa paligid. The tension
between Leila and Jed.
"I-I didn't know this was yours." Ani Jed at iniikot ang mata sa paligid ng
restaurant.
"Kakatayo lang nito. Meron rin kaming restaurant sa Cebu. It's our first." Leila
smiles.
"I'm glad na natutupad mo na lahat ng pangarap mo..." Jed was looking directly at
Leila's eyes. It's so tearful. Para bang sinasaksak si Jed habang nakikita niya
ngayon si Leila na nakatayo sa kanyang harapan. "I am really happy for you..."
It hit Leila. Gusto na niyang umiyak pero hindi pwede. Sobrang sikip na ng dibdib
niya. Hindi na siya makahinga. The place was soffucating her. It kills her. It
kills her seeing Jed.
Jessica suddenly clears her throat cutting the attention of the two.
"As I have said earlier, I want this restaurant to have a branch inside the
StarHome. I'll invest at your company if that happens."
Napatingin si Leila sa kanyang pinsan na gulat na gulat.
Her restaurant? Magkakaroon ito ng branch sa StarHome? That would means working
with Jed. Will she be able to?But if it is the only way to save the company that
she is now part of, will she?
Huminga ng malalim si Leila.
"We can talk about this some other time. I'll give you--"
"Let's set a meeting, Jed." Leila cut Jed's.
It was like her heart beat is louder than her voice. Kinakabahan siya. She didn't
expect to utter those words.
"Great! Then I'll just wait for that time." Jessica cut's. Biglang lumapit ang body
guard ni Jessica at kinuha ang kanyang bag. "I'll be going." paalam niya kay Leila
at Jed.
"It's nice to meet you, Mr. Sy" ani Jessica habang nakikipag-kamay kay Jed.
"Likewise, Miss Montecarlo."
Jessica turns her looks at Leila and smile. "I'll see you tomorrow?"
Leila just nods. "Ingat ka pag-uwi Jess."
"Don't worry about me ate. Kasama ko naman ang body guard ko." Jessica kisses on
Leila's cheeks.
They have said their goodbyes. Now, it's Jed and Leila left standing.
Hindi nila alam pereho kung anong sasabihin sa isa't-isa. Both of them are lost in
words looking at each others eyes.
Huminga ng malalim si Leila.
"We can talk about the arrangement some other time Jed. Please excuse me for a
while. Marami pa kasi akong gagawin sa office. You can just contact my Assistant
Secretary for the schedule."
Naglakad palayo si Leila. Agad siyang pumasok sa kanyang opisina at sinara ang
pintuan. Tila naka hinga siya ng malalim.
Hanggang ngayon, mahal parin niya ang asawa. Hindi niya kayang itanggi iyon. Hindi
niya kayang itago lalo na kapag kaharap niya si Jed.
Leila dialed to her landline. "Aster, please check kung nanjan pa ba si Mr. Sy."
then she end the call.
Umupo siya at pinasadahan ang kanyang mukha. May kumatok sa pintuan.
"Please come in."
Iniluwa ng pintuan ang kanyang assistant secretary.
"Ma'am, nakaalis na po si Mr. Sy. But he checked your schedule for Next week and
set for a meeting."
"Okay, please set a meeting for me and Mr. Sy. And re-schedule my meeting with Mrs.
Calvanejo's food tasting on Thursday next week in the afternoon. Please inform Mrs.
Calvanejo for the change."
"Yes ma'am. Would there be anything else?"
"No, thank you Aster. That'll be all."

Umalis na ang kanyang secretary. Lalong gumaan ang loob niya ng nalamang nakaalis
na si Jed. Huminga siya ng malalim at itinuon na lang ang atensyon sa gawain sa
kanyang restaurant.
Jed drives back to the office for another conference meeting. Hindi mawala sa isip
niya si Leila habang nagd-drive. He was happy to see Leila and her success.
Biglang nag ring ang phone niya. It was Amanda.
[Jed! Where are you? Si Justine!] bakas sa tono ng boses ni Amanda ang takot at
pag-iyak.
Agad na kinabahan si Jed nang marinig ang pangalan ng anak.
"I'm on my way pabalik ng office. Anong nang yari?"
[Dinala ko sa ospital si Justine. Please Jed, pumunta ka na dito. Hindi ko na alam

gagawin ko.]
"Okay, pupunta na ko jan. Send me the location." he hangs up. Agad siyang nag U-
turn.
Mabilis na nakarating si Jed sa ospital. Nakita niya si Amanda na umiiyak at

naghihintay sa may Emergency Room.
"Jed!" sabay takbo ni Amanda papunta kay Jed.
Niyakap ni Amanda ng mahigpit si Jed at humagulgol. Pilit na pinapakalma ni Jed si

Amanda.
"Ano bang nangyari?" tanong ni Jed nang kumalma na ito.
"Kasalanan ko..." humagulgol na naman ng iyak si Amanda. She put her palms on her
face. "This is all my fault... kasalanan ko kung bakit nasagasaan ang anak natin.
Pabaya akong ina..."
Niyakap ni Jed si Amanda. "Shh... wala kang kasalanan. Tahan na..." he says as he
comforts her.
Kahit na kinamumuhian ni Jed si Amanda ay nagpapasalamat parin naman ito dito dahil
alam niyang mahal na mahal nito ang anak nila.
Kalahating oras nang naghintay sina Jed. Dumating na rin ang mga kaibigan niya sa
ospital para suportahan silang dalawa.
Lumabas ang doktor sa ER.
"Sino po ang mga magulang ng bata?" tanong nito.
Agad na lumapit si Jed habanag inaalalayan si Amanda. "Kami po Doc. How's my son?"
"Ma'am, sir. Tibayan po natin ang loob natin. Madami pong nawalang dugo sa anak
niyo. Kailangan po natin siyang masalinan ng dugo."
"I am ready to give my blood for my son." Ani Jed.
"Sige po. Pa-check na lang po natin kung match ang dugo niyo."
Agad na nagpunta si Jed sa laboratory para magpakuha ng dugo. Makalipas ang

kalahating oras ay lumabas na ang resulta.
"Doc, ano pong result?" kabadong tanong ni Jed.
Lahat ay nagaabang sa resulta.
"Sorry, pero hindi match ang dugo mo. We need blood type AB."
"Ako po. AB ang dugo ko." ani Spencer.
*****
Nakauwi na ng bahay si Leila. Sinalubong siya ng kanyang anak sabay halik sa

kanyang pisngi. Pakiramdam ni Leila ay nawala ang pagod niya dahil sa halik ng
kanyang anak.
"How's your day here baby?" tanong ni Leila sa anak.
"Daddy and I play at the garden. Let's eat na mommy!"
hila-hila siya ng kanyang anak papunta sa dining area. Naabutan niyang naghahanda
na ng pagkain si Pat.
She instantlly smile at him as they meet each others eyes.

Inilapag ni Patrick ang pagkain sa mesa at lumapit kay Leila at Sabrina.
"Kanina ka pa ba nakauwi?" tanong ni Leila kay Pat.
Pat kisses her cheeks. "Maaga kong tinapos yung trabaho ko sa office para makapag
laro kami ni Sab."
"Mommy! Mommy! Daddy and I cooked this for you!"
Leila kneel down to reach her daughter. "That's sweet baby! Kiss mo nga si Mommy!"
Sabrina hugs her mom and plant sweet little kisses on Leila's cheeks.
"Tara na kumain na tayo." aya ni Pat sa mag-ina.
Matapos kumain ay nanuod ang pamilya ng movie hanggang sa makatulog na si Sabrina.
Buhat-buhat siya ng kanyang ama papasok sa kanyang kuwarto. They kiss their
daughter's forehead and went back at the sala.
"Pat.. there's something I want to tell you." Panimula ni Leila habang koportableng
nakaupo silang dalawasa sofa.
Pat looks at her asking what it is. She breathes heavily.
"Jed and I will work together to save the company. Kanina ko pa gustong sabihin
sa'yo. Humahanap lang ako ng timing para masabi sa'yo."
Pat smiles at Leila. "That's good then." Pat kisses her on her forehead making her
secured.
"It's business. And there's nothing to worry about it Lei. I'm glad pumayag ka.
Sinabi na sa akin ni Jess yung plan niya about that."
Leila smiles at him. "Thank you. Thank you for everything Pat."
Maagang umalis ng bahay si Leila para pumunta sa restaurant dahil mayroon silang
food tasting with a client. She was at her office preparing the food profile when
her phone rings.
It was Charlotte.
"Char? Bakit ka napatawag?"
[Chan are you busy? I need to talk to you personally.] Sa tono ng boses ng kaibigan
ay tila may mabigat itong problema kaya naman agad siyang nakaramdam ng pagaalala
para rito.
"May food tasting kami dito sa restaurant ng 9 am to 12 noon. I'll be free after
that. Is there something wrong? May problema ka ba?" pagaalalang tanong nito.
[No. Wala akong problema. But I need to talk to you. Can we meet at a Café around
Timog Ave? I'll send you the link.]
"Okay. Sure kaba talagang okay ka lang?"
Charlotte laughs. [Yes. Okay lang ako. Importante lang talaga 'tong sasabihin ko
sa'yo ngayon. I'll see you later okay?]
"Ok. Bye. Ingat ka."
And they both hang the phone.
Bumalik siya sa pag-aayos ng mga kakailanganin mamaya para sa food testing. Biglang
may kumatok sa pintuan.
It was her assistant.
"Miss Leila, almost ready na po ang lahat ng food for today's food tasting with Mr.
Lamco and Miss Ong's wedding."
"Okay. Good. I'll be checking after this." Ani Leila habang nakatutok sa computer
at hindi lumilingon sakanyang assistant.
"And... Mr. Sy re-schedule his meeting with you." Napahinto si Leila.
She looks at her assistant. "Bakit daw?"
Her assistant shrugs. Of course Aster would not know. Her work was to keep all her
schedule organized and not to meddle with someone's personal life and reasons.
Pakiramdam tuloy ni Leila ay gusto na niyang lumubog sa kanyang kinauupuan dahil sa
reaksyon niya sa sinabi ng kanyang assistant.
"That would be all, Aster?"

"Y-yes ma'am." Takang sabi ng assistant dahil sa biglang pagbabago ng expression ng
kanyang boss.
"Okay. I'll be at the kitchen in a minute." At ibinalik na muli ang atensyon sa

monitor.
Nagpatuloy ang trabaho para kay Leila kahit na may mga pagkakataong naliligaw ang
isip niya. Hindi niya mapigilang mag-isip kung bakit na re-schedule ang meeting
nila ni Jed.
Ano kayang nangyari sa kanya? Dapat ko bang tanungin kung bakit siya nag pa re-
sched?
A lot of thoughts passes through her mind. Then she realized why she was still
asking herself these thoughts and imagined life with Jed again. Tila nababaliw na
siya. Ilang buwan na lang ay finalize na ang divorce nila. There is nothing for
them to feel beyond their business relationship. That's all.
She was already at the Café where she and Charlotte will meet. Waiting for her
friend she kept asking herself bakit ba bigla na lang siyang bumitiw sa
relationship nila ni Jed. They already build up a new life pero sa isang masakit na
pangyayari ay nawala ang lahat. All the happiness has gone. What had just happened
can never be changed and fixed. Her heart still has those wounds from the past. But
she sometimes thinks of her regrets. Bakit hindi niya pinagbigyang mag-paliwanag si
Jed? Why did she left him? Hindi ba't masakit rin naman kay Jed ang pag-alis niya?
But it was seven years. Pitong taon ang lumipas pero sa loob ng pitong taon na
'yon... hindi man lang nagpakita sa kanya si Jed. Hindi man lang siya sinundan
nito. Are they both let go and moved on?
Pero sa puso ni Leila. Sa kaibuturan ng kanyang puso... She still loves the man who
brought pain and happiness in her life, hanggang ngayon ay mahal parin niya si Jed.
Bago pa tuluyang lumlim ang pag-iisip niya ay dumating na si Charlotte kasama si

Jasper.
Takang-taka si Leila kung bakit kasama nito ang kaibigan ng soon-to-be ex-husband
niya. Umupo ang dalawa sa tapat niyang upuan.
"Kanina ka pa ba Chan? Sorry na-late kami." Ani Charlotte.
Umiling-iling siya sabay ngiti. "Hindi kadarating ko lang din." Pero ang totoo ay
kanina pa siya naghihintay. Hindi lang niya namalayan ang oras dahil sa pagiisip
niya.
"Kamusta ka na Leila?" bati ni Jasper.

She smiles. "Mabuti naman. Kayo? Bakit kayo magkasamang dalawa?" takang tanong niya
sa kaibigan.
Nagkatinginan si Charlotte at Jasper. "We are getting married." They both said.
Laking gulat ni Leila sa sinabi ng dalawa. Parang noong isang buwan lamang ay
nagkakilala lang sila at ngayon ay magpapakasal na sila? It was too fast!
Leila blinks three times. "Totoo ba 'to? At kailan pa ba naging kayo?" gulong-
gulong tanong ni Leila.
"Last two weeks lang. And then we finally decided to get married." Charlotte says
as she looks at Jasper.
Leila can see the love within the two.
"Pero... hindi ba ang bilis naman? Do you guys really think of it? Napagisipan niyo
bang maigi 'to?"
"Oo naman! C'mon Leila! You know babaero ako pero isang beses lang akong nag-
seryoso." Jasper's expression was serious. He looks at Charlotte. "And I think this
is true love. And I believe once you found that long lasting love, hindi mo na siya
dapat pakawalan pa." Kinuha ni Jasper ang kamay ni Charlotte and kisses her
knuckles.
It hit Leila. What if Jed was really her true love? Why did she let go? Why did he
let go? Why did both of them let go?
"Kaya sana, maintindihan mo kami Chan. I have fallen hard, fast... deep rooted to
this guy. And we have the same feelings for each other. At ayokong mawala siya sa
akin. I don't want to lose this guy like if it's the last day of the earth."
Leila smiles. "I know what you guys feels. Kung mahal mo ang isang tao, wag mo na
siyang pakawalan pa. I hope for the good future for the both of you. Kailan ba ang
kasal niyo?"
"Next month na." Ani Jasper.
"And you are my maid of honor." Proud na sabi ni Charlotte.
"And.. we would like you to cater the foods sa reception." Added by Jasper.
"Okay, I'll just send you the Food Combos. Saan ba ang reception at ang wedding
venue?"
"Gusto kasi namin sa beach. So we decided to go on a beach wedding." Sabi ni
Charlotte.
"We already reserved my uncle's resort in Palawan." Jasper looks at Charlotte.

"That will be the happiest day of our life." Then he kisses Charlotte's forehead.
The three have talked a lot of things. Inabot na sila ng hapon kak-kuwento. About
the plans ng future Mr. and Mrs. Yu. The wedding. The guests.
Leila bid her goodbye to the two love birds.
"Sorry guys. I need to go. I'll just send to you the list of foods tonight. And
call me if you want to add something or any ideas you guys have pa." Ani Leila.
"Here's the invitation for you and your family." Ani Charlotte at niyakap ng
mahigpit ang kaibigan. "Thank you so much Chan! You made me happy!"
"Anything for you Char..." kumalas siya sa pagkakayakap sa kanya ni Charlotte. "So
where you guys will be going?"
"Bibisitahin namin si Justine sa ospital malapit dito." Jasper said.
"Justine? Bakit? Anong nangyari kay Justine?" pagaalalang tanong ni Leila.
"Nasagasaan yung bata noong isang araw. He needs blood donation." Ani Charlotte.
"Meron na ba? Did Jed donate blood for his son?" Leila says.
"Unfortunately, hindi nag-match yung dugo nila ni Justine. But Justine got a donor.
Buti na lang at compatible yung dugo ni Spencer kay Justine. Ngayon na yung blood
transfusion ni Justine. Gusto mo bang sumama?" Kuwento ni Jasper.
Tila nagdalawang isip si Leila. Gusto niyang sumama pero hindi siya igurado kung
kaya niya bang pumunta doon at makita si Amanda, Justine at Jed na magkasama. Ayaw
rin niyang makagawa ng gulo. But she cares for Justine. After all, inalagaan niya
ang bata noong babypa lamang ito.
"Sige na Chan sumam ka na samin. Kahit saglit lang." Pang-anyaya ni Charlotte.
Pumayag si Leila na sumama sa dalawa.
Nadatnan nila si Jed sa may pintuan ng kuwarto ni Justine.

"Kamusta na si Justine?" tanong ni Jasper.
"Bumubuti na yung condition niya. Nasalinan na siya ng dugo ni Spencer." Then Jed
suddenly look at Leila. Nagulat siya nang makita itong kasama ni Jasper at
Charlotte.
"I'm sorry. I have to re-sched the meeting." Jed says to Leila.
"It's okay Jed. Mas importante ang pamilya kumpara sa negosyo. Besides, Jess can
wait." Leila says with reasurance. "I came here to visit Justine."
Jed nods as he opens the door. "He's still sleeping."
"Uhm, Jed... Chan... bibili lang kami ng pagkain ni Jaspy sa baba." Sabay hatak
palayo ni Charlotte sa kanyang fiance.
Pumasok sa loob ng kuwarto si Jed at Leila.
Leila saw Justine sleeping with a bandage on his head having wounds on his face and
arms.
"Thank God he was already safe from danger." Ani Leila as he was looking at the boy
he used to cherish and treated as her own son.
Jed smiles looking at his son sleeping. "He's my everything right now. Siya na lang
ang tama sa mga nangyayari sa buhay ko ngayon. I can't afford to lose him."
Leila can feel Jed's agony. She didn't realize that she already hugged him. So
tight that she feels secured and as if she can still feel the love for the guy.
It was like she was longing for that hug as Jed hugs her back and tighter. Their
body says that their misses each other so much.
"Everything will be fine Jed." Leila says as she combs Jed's hair.
"Leila--"
"Mga ahas!" agad na napakalas si Leila sa pagkakayakap kay Jed nang madinig ang
pagsigaw ng isang babae.
It was Amanda.
Agad niyang nilapitan si Leila at sinampal. She slapped Leila hard na halos
sumubsob ito sa sahig. Agad namang inawat ni Jed si Amanda bago pa muling masaktang
muli ni Amanda si Leila.
"At dito pa talaga kayo sa loob ng kuwarto ni Justine maghaharutan! Mga ahas!
Sinasabi ko na nga ba! Nagkabalikan na kayong dalawa! Ikaw babae ka! Mangaagaw ka!
Napaka landi mong hayop ka! Asawa ng iba inaahas mo pa! Ang kapal ng mukha mo para
pumunta pa dito! Nakakainis kang babae ka!" Amanda keeps on ranting.
"Amanda stop!" awat ni Jed pero ayaw magpapigil nito.
Eksaktong pumasok na sa loob ng kuwarto si Jasper at Charlotte. Agad na tinulungan

ni Jasper na awatin si Amanda at pinuntahan naman ni Charlotte si Leila.
Sa sobrang sakit ng pagkakadampi ng kamay ni Amanda sa pisngi ni Leila ay namula

ito.
"Wala akong inaagaw sa'yo Amanda."
"Anong wala!? Eh kitang-kita ng dalawang mata ko! Nagyayakapan kayo! Inaagaw mo

yung asawa ko! Haliparot kang babae ka!"
"Wala akong inaagaw sa'yo dahil asawa ko parin si Jed! Ako parin ang nagma-mayrari
sa kanya! Wala kang karapatan dahil hindi kanaman asawa! Ako parin ang asawa! Sa
mata ng Diyos at ng batas ako parin ang asawa ni Jed! Hindi pa naman kayo kasal
kaya hindi ka niya asawa! Ikaw ang haliparot! Ikaw ang mangaagaw! Ikaw ang ahas! If
it weren't for you none of us will be miserable today!" Leila burst. She wipes her
tears. "Maybe it was all your fault why Justine's here. Imbes na alagaan mo at
mahalin mo ang anak mo, puro masasama ang iniisip mo!"
Leila walks out and run towards the elevator. She did not realize Jed was following
her.
"Leila!"
Tumakbo si Leila pababa ng hangdanan.
"Leila! Wait!"
Jed caught her. He pinned her into the wall. Pareho silang hinihingal. But Leila
still holding her tears not to fall. But she can't.
"Why did things happened to us Jed? I shouldn't be here. Ibinabalik niyo lang lahat
ng sakit na nararamdaman ko... Bakit parang ako pa yung naging masama? Bakit ako pa
yung mangaagaw? Ako pa ang nakasakit? Ang sakit! Ang sakit-sakit Jed! Why did these
things happened to us? Why do both of us let go each other's hand? Why?"
"Stop crying..." Jed wipes her tears. "I'm sorry..."
"I am asking the same thing. Why do we end up like this? Why do you let go?"
"Because I have to... Bacause Justine needed you more than I do..."
Leila wipes her tears once more. "I have to go, Jed."
Tumakbo palayo si Leila hanggang sa makasakay siya ng sasakyan.
She drives back home at naabutan si Patrick sa sala.
Agad siyang tumabko rito at niyakap ito ng mahigpit.
"What happened Leila?"
Leila keeps on crying. "Ang sakit Pat! Sobrang sakit..."
Pat tapping her back. Making her to calm down but she couldn't.
"I still love Jed... and it hurt to still loving him..."
------------------------------------------------------------
The reason why we can't let go of someone
Is because deep inside we still have hope...
-----------------------------------------------------------
g06$
Happy holidays!
Next year na po yung last 4 chapters plus the Epilogue. Wala talaga... di kaya ng
powers ko. T^T
God bless~!
~ChecheAnne :">
=================
Chapter 27
Chapter 27
"Pano na yung ideas ko? Are you still going to work with him?" Tanong sa akin ni
Jess habang nakahiga sa kama at yakap-yakap yung unan.
I was combing my hair at the mirror. I look at my cousin.
"Of course work is work. I can't mix my work with personal problems. That's
unethical and unprofessional for me to do."
Tumabi ako kay Jess sa kama. "Can't we please just stop talking about him? Saan ba
tayo pupunta ngayon?"
Bumangon si Jess mula sa pagkakahiga. She smiles at me. "Let's go at the mall!"
"What are you going to buy at the mall?" I ask.
"Hmmm..." she looks at the ceilling as if napakalalim at sobrang importante ng

bibilin niya. "The mall itself?" I just laugh at her.
"Are you serious?" This girl can sometimes be so funny yet she never jokes. What
she says she do it seriously.
She noods at me. "Yeah. I'm sure couz. I wanna buy a mall."
"That will be too much. Besides, the board might not approved. I bet hindi payag
ang board sa pagi-invest sa StarHomes tapos bibili ka pa ng mall? I know yung mall
na pallugi na ang balak mo bilhin. Am I correct?" pangaral ko. But she just laugh
at me.
"You're overreacting couz! Relax! I know what I am doing." Sumandal siya sa board
ng kama. She looks at the ceiling and smile. "Besides, I might get a huge gain from
buying a dying company. I have these feeling that I can run the mall. And with only
a small amount for rennovation and improvements, I can get a good exchange for
that. I know I can do it. Maganda ang location ng mall. It's near with lot's of
people who travels and all classes of people passes through that area. Besides,
sino bang tao ang hindi pupunta sa mga mall?" She made me believe in her ideas.
"With just, a proper care and maintenance, good promos, and well deseerved quality
of products... it will be a success."
She does really dream big. I believe in her.
I smile at my cousin. "Yeah, I do believe in you. You can do everything."
I've been her guardian for about two years. Our grandfather has gone. Ang dami ring
pinagdaanan ng pinsan ko bago siya makarating sa kung anong meron siya ngayon.
Before, hindi naman talaga niya gusto na mapunta sa kanya ang lahat ng kayamanan ng
Monte Carlo but she had learned to love the business and tries to put it into a new
perspective. Now, little by little she do well with her role.
Kaya kahit na wala pa siyang 21 years old ay hinahayaan ko na siyang i-exercise ang
rights niya though it will still have the signature of me. But she never fails me
and the people around her. That's what I like about my cousin.
I am blessed that I have met my mother's family.
Akala ko noon wala nang pag-asang makita ko pa ang mga kamag-anak ko sa mother
side. I never knew na buhay pa pala sila. Until one day at Canada, I've met my
grandfather. Kahit na maikli lang ang naging time namin ay nasulit namin 'yon. And
now, it felt like something inside me has been complete. I feel like the missing
piece of puzzel has finally found.
Sa pagkawala ni Baba at Grandpa ay natutunan kong i-cherish ang mga bawat sandali
na nakakasama ko ang mga taong mahal ko sa buhay. Especially my daughter-Sabrina.
She is my everything. She is my happiness. You'll never know when will the person
so dearest to you can stay for so long. Hindi natin hawak ang oras natin kaya dapat
nating sulitin ito.
And that's what I am doing right now.
Nagpunta kami ni Jess sa mall. And because it's Saturday, isinama na namin si
Sabrina.
Nilibot namin yung mall na gustong-gustong bilhin ni Jess. It's old. The facilities
aren't functioning well at kakaunti na lang rin ang costumers na namimili. Some
stalls are already closed. Mayroon kasi itong competitior around the area. If I
were an ordinary consumer, I would normally chose to go to a mall which has a good
facilities and the products that everything I need was already there inside the
mall.
"Mommy, why are we here? It looks like a hunted house. Let's go to another mall
please?" makulit na sabi ni Sab.
Sab's insists us to moved out into another mall which looks so friendly and where
she feels so welcome and entertained.
"Baby Sab, can you please wait for Tita to finish her round check?" Jess says.
"Why so Tita Jess? I don't want to be here! It's so scary!" halos maiyak na si
Sabrina.
Binuhat siya ni Jess. "Don't worry baby, after we finished we can go to the mall
you wanted to and have fun. Okay?"
Sabrina just nod.
"Good girl! Now, your Mommy and I will just look around. If you want something I
will buy it for you okay?"
Nilibot namin ang buong mall. Hindi naman siya gaanong nakakapagod libutin dahil
halos sarado na ang ibang stalls. Two floors lang ang malll pero malawak ito. After
looking around ay nagpunta na kami sa isang kilalang mall along the way. We ate
first tapos ay nagpunta na kami sa isang amusement area ng mall.
Sab was thrilled and excited to try the rides. She rides all the animals and
cartoon characters which has token slots which are like one peso coin. Then we ride
The Caterpillar which are more of like a roller coaster for kids. She got scared
but she still counquer her fears. Sinakyan namin lahat ng mga rides doon sa
amusement area ng mall. Enjoy rin si Sab sa paglalaro ng mga machines na may mga
stuffed toys sa loob. We try to catch one many times. Then Sab finally catched one.
"Yeahay! I catch one!" Sab was so happy.
Kinuha niya yung prize sa may pa-rectangle na butas sa may ibaba ng machine. It was
a bunny bear. Sab hugs it so tight.
Bigla kong naalala yung phone chain na ibinigay ko kay Jed noon. It was a bunny
chain that I bought on the souvinier shop sa amusement park na pinuntahan namin.
Naalala ko rin yung bunny head band na isinuot niya sa akin and he take photos of
me wearing it. I remember those happy memories with Jed. Ang sarap-sarap balikan ng
mga alaala na 'yon.
"'Couz! We're hugry na! Let's eat dinner na!" aya ni Jess.
I came back into reality and we eat dinner in a restaurant.
After that, naglibot pa kami ng kaunti sa mall. Ipinamili ni Jess si Sab ng mga
laruan at dress. Tuwang-tuwa si Sab sa mga ibinili sa kanya ng Tita niya.
"This is too much Jess. Sobrang dami ng binili mo para kay Sab!" I said as we walk
out of the mall habang dala-dala ng mga body guards niya yung mga bag ng goods na
binili niya para kay Sab.
"This was just small amounts ate. Maliit lang na bagay 'to for my one and only
pamangkin!" binuhat niya si Sab. "Right baby Sab?"
Sab just giggle. "Thank you Tita Jess!" she says as my baby hugs her Tita and gives
sweet little kisses.
"Alam mo namang ayokong i-spoiled si Sab. I don't want her to live with material
things. Pano kung wala na ako o si Patrick sa mundo? Will she can able to finance
these things on her own kung bata pa lang siya ay nakukuha na niya ang mga bagay-
bagay in an easy way?"
I wanted to teach my daughter na pagsikapan niya kung ano ang mga bagay na gusto
niya.
"Sorry na. But I really wanted to give all for my pamangkin."
Napailing-iling na lang ako.
*****
Today's my meeting with Jed. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang papupuntahan ng meeting
namin after what happened the last time na nagkita kami.
I don't know how to face him. It feels so awkward to talk with him like nothing
happened. But I must act like a professional. Si Jess naman kasi ang may kasalanan
nito. Kung hindi lang siya ang pag-asa ng kumpanya ay hindi ko gagawin talaga ang
mga bagay na ito. But for the company that Mama and Papa had build together with my
Granmother, I would not let it to fall down and if this is the only way I'll do it
even if it kills me seeing him.
Pumasok sa loob ng office si Aster, my assistant.

"Miss Leila, I just want to remind you for your next schedule." I listened to her
as I sign some documents. "Your 2:30 to 4:00pm meeting with Mr. Yu and Miss
Magdayo's cater set up. Then mayroon po kayong meeting with Mr. and Mrs. Fuerte for
their daughter's debut at 5:00 to 6:30 pm. And your last meeting for today's with
Mr. Sy at 8:00 pm sa Plaza Martinez' Restaurant."
I look at Aster and smile. "Ok. Thank you."
"Naka sched na rin po sa phone niyo yung schedules niyo for today." She placed my
Galaxy Note at my table. "Would there be anything else, Miss?"
I look at the clock. It was already 1:30 pm. I still haven't eat my lunch.
"Please prepare our list of foods for my next meeting. And pakisabi na rin kay Chef
Isidro to prepare three plates of Carimone for the meeting with Mr. Yu and Miss
Magdayo."
Aster nods at me and leave the office.
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba. I never thought that my meeting with Jed will be
for dinner. I shigh deeply. I should be relaxed and calm. Mind over heart. Remember
that Leila.
My two meetings finished well. Napagkasunduan na namin nina Char yung foods na is-
serve for their wedding. We'll be having our food tasting by next week same as Mr.
and Mrs. Fuerte for their daughter's debut.
It's 7:00 in the evening. I already finished my work here at the restaurant.
Palabas na ako ng resto nang biglang umulan.
"Urgh! Bakit ngayon pa umulan?" Hindi ko na mapigilang mainis.
Wala pa naman akong dalang payong. At sa kasamaang palad, hindi ko dinala yung
sasakyan ko dahil coding ako ngayon. I did not expect my meeting with Jed will be
this late. At siya pa talaga ang huli kong ka-meeting sa araw na ito.
Buti na lamang at may payong na extra si Aster at ipinahiram niya 'yon sa akin.
Sumakay akong cab papunta sa Plaza Martinez'.
I text Pat and our Head Maid na mal-late na ako ng uwi at huwag na akong ipaghanda
ng dinner. Hindi ko pa ipinaalam kay Pat na si Jed ang ka-meeting ko ngayon. It
feels so awkward to tell this to him. Feeling ko kasi para itong dinner date.
I shook my head. No Chan. This is not a date. This is business. I keep on telling
myself hanggang makarating ako ng restaurant.
I check my wrist watch bago bumaba ng cab. It's already 8:30 in the evening. I'm 30
minutes late! Nakakahiya!
Inayos ko muna ang sarili ko bago ako pumasok sa loob.
Agad na sumalobong sa akin ang receptionist.
"Reserved table for Sy Corporation."
"This way ma'am." the waiter leads the way.
Habang sinusundan ko ang waiter papunta sa reserved table ay naagaw ang atensyon ko
ng grand piano sa gitna ng restaurant. Live na tumutugtog ng classic songs ang
pianist. It's amazing to hear a classical music. Bibihira na lang kasi ang mga
ganitong tugtugin. Only high class restaurants only plays classics nowadays, I
guess.
Bumalik ang atensyon ko sa nilalakaran ko. Natatanaw ko na kasi si Jed na nakaupo

sa isang table sa dulo. The area looks like private pero kitang-kita mo kung sino
ang nakaupo doon. Mayroon siyang glass sliding door at ang pader ay gawa sa
salamin. But the sound of the classic song can still be heard.
"Sorry I'm late." sabi ko kay Jed.
Inalalayan niya ako sa pag-upo. He seats in front of me.
He smiles. "Hindi. Okay lang, na traffic rin ako."
My heart leaps. Hindi ko alam kung paano ba namin sisimulan ang meeting. It really
feels awkward to see him in front of me right now. Yet, my heart says that I am
happy seeing him right now. Deep inside, I am happy.
"We should eat first before anything else." He said and make a sign at the waiter
to serve the appetizer.
Hindi ko alam kung magsasalita ba ako. Ano naman ang sasabihin ko?
Magaling na ba si Justine?
Hindi. Ang awkward kung itatanong ko 'yon. We're on a meeting. Baka masyadong
personal yung tanong ko.
Kamusta na ang feelingera mong asawa?

Lalong hindi. Ayokong maalala si Amanda. Naiisip ko lang siya ay kumukulo na ang
dugo ko. Gustong-gusto ko siyang sampalin. Ang sarap niyang isubsob sa sahig.
Masyadong halata na may galit talaga ako kay Amanda kung itatanong ko 'yon. Saka
'di naman ang babaeng 'yon ang dahilan kung bakit kami nagm-meeting ni Jed ngayon.
This is business. Purely business.
Mahal parin kita. Mahal mo pa rin ba 'ko?
Mas lalong hindi. Feeling ko mukha akong desperada kung sasabihin ko 'yon. Hindi
ako bababa sa level ni Amanda.
"Are you okay, Leila?" I came back to reality nang madinig ko ang boses ni Jed as
he touches my hands and I shiver.
Inilayo ko yung kamay ko. I put it down on the table so he won't see it.
"Yeah, I'm okay. I think we should start."
He clears his throat. "Yeah, you're right." biglang nagiba ang tono ng boses niya.
Nakaramdam ako ng lungkot at pagka-guilty. But I should think first before I follow
my heart. This is a business meeting. Nothing more, nothing else.
We have discussed about the plans sa StarHomes. They are currently rennovating the
club house. Both of us have agreed the choices of foods to be served to the club
members. Everyday ay magpapalit-palit ng variety of foods which are locally and
internationally which will be further discuss with my selected chefs na magluluto
sa club house.
"I'll just appoint one of my senior chefs to be the head chef at the club house.
Would that be okay for you?"
"I want you, Leila..." Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya.
Tila tumigil ang pag-ikot ng mundo. Jed says he likes me...
"E-excuse me?" Nauutal kong sabi. Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko. Parang any moment
ay sasabog na ako ngayon.
"I mean, I want you to be the head chef." He clarifies.

My heart beat wents down. Failing from dissapointment, I guess. I cannot contradict
my heart as of now. Hindi ko alam kung kita ba sa mukha ko ang pagka-lungkot.
"I'm sorry Jed but I can't."
I sighed deeply. I opened another topic about the business matter. Pilit kong
inilalayo ang usapan namin sa personal naming nararamdaman. Hindi ko kaya kung
bigla na lang namin mapaguusapan ang nakaraan naming dalawa. Dahil hanggang ngayon,
nakalubog parin ako sa pagmamahal ko para sa kanya. Ayokong pumaibabaw ang
nararamdaman ko dahil noong huling ginawa ko 'yon, sobrang nasaktan lang ang puso
ko.
We have signed the contracts. Sawakas at natapos na namin ang meeting.
We'll further discuss the other matters once the business starts.
"Uuwi ka na ba?" he asks.
I just nod at him.
Sabay na kaming lumabas ng restaurant. Laking gulat ko nang makitang umuulan parin
ng napakalakas. Bakit ba kasi ngayon pa umulan ng malakas? Kung kailan naman wala
akong dalang sasakyan.
Binuksan ko na ang payong ko nang may biglang humawak sa kabilang braso ko.
It was Jed.
"Wala ka bang dalang sasakyan?" he asks.
"Coding ako ngayon eh." I explain.
"Hindi ka ba susunduin ni Pat?"
"Pat was in HongKong. May business trip siya ngayon. Don't worry. I'll just take a
cab." At inalis ko ang kamay niya sa braso ko.
Nagmadali akong naglakad palayo sa kanya pero hinabol niya ako.
"Leila! Wait!"
Please... Please Jed 'wag mo na akong sundan pa.

He suddenly grabs my arms once more.
"Bakit ba Jed? Bakit mo pa ko sinusundan?" Napansin kong wala siyang payong kaya
isinukob ko siya sa payong ko. "Tingnan mo, basang-basa ka na tuloy!" pagaalala ko.
"Sumakay ka na sa kotse ko. I'll drive you home." he said with a serious tone.
"Hindi na. Kaya ko nang mag-commute mag-isa." I resist.
"Sumakay ka na. Mahihirapan ka lang din makasakay agad. Malakas ang ulan." He still
insists.
Umiling-iling ako. "No. I can manage this. Umalis ka na." pagmamatigas ko.
Naglakad na ako palayo pero binuhat niya ako. Nabitawan ko tuloy yung payong at
pareho na kaming basang-basa ng ulan.
"Jed! Put me down!" nagpupumiglas ako as he walks lifting me on his shoulder.
Binuksan niya yung pintuan ng front seat. I sat there soaking wet because of him.
Agad naman siyang sumakay sa driver's seat.
I look at him. He just gave me his what's-the-matter look. I roll my eyes.
"This is your entire fault." I yelled at him. Basang-basa na ako ng ulan. And the
worst thing is lalo pang lumakas yung ulan. Kinuha ko yung panyo ko sa bag.
"Tingnan mo! Basang-basa na tuloy ako!" Naiinis kong sabi.
Wala akong nadidinig na kahit ano kay Jed. Lalo tuloy akong naiinis ngayon.
I saw him move from my peripheral view. May inabot yata siyang bagay mula sa likod.
Nagulat na lang ako nang ipinatong niya yung towel sa ulo ko. I look at him
puzzled.
"I know that towel's not enough to make you dry and keep you warm." He looks at me
and smile. "But that's the least thing that I can do for now."
Having moments like this with Jed makes me feel how much I love him up until now.
Mahal na mahal ko ang taong 'to na nasa tabi ko. Pilit ko mang i-kaila sa sarili
ko... my heart always reminds me how much I love him.
He drives away from the restaurant. Tahimik lang ako buong biyahe. I just look at
the window at pinagmamasdan ang pag-agos ng tubig ulan sa bintana.
Biglang nag ring ang phone ko.
It was Sabrina.
"Yes baby? Why are you still awake?"
[I'm waiting for you to come home mommy.] She sounds so sleepy.
Naawa tuloy ako sa anak ko. Wala pa naman si Patrick ngayon.
"I'll be coming home na ok? Have you drink your milk?"
[Yes mommy. Matagal ka pa po ba mommy?]
I look at the road. Traffic pa.
"Yes honey. Na-traffic kasi si mommy. You sleep na okay? Mommy will be home soon."
[Yes mommy. Take care. I love you. Please come home na.]
"Yes honey. I love you. You give the phone to yaya."
Before I hang up the phone. Ipinagbilin ko na muna si Sab sa yaya niya. Mukhang
matatagalan pa kasi bago ako maka-uwi. Traffic sa daan at mukhang baha na rin ang
daraanan namin.
Jed suddenly clears his throat. I look at him.
"Yung kausap mo sa phone... yung anak niyo ni Pat?"
I don't know how to take this conversation with him. It feels so... awkward.
"Oo. Si Sabrina." I just smile while thinking of my daughter.
"She really looks like you." He said.
"I guess. But I think she got her father's eyes. Sab was a strong girl which is not
me when I was a child."
"You're a strong girl too." Napatingin ako sa kanya. His eyes were focused on the
road even though we are not moving because of the traffic.
"Bakit mo naman nasabi?"
Bigla na lang natawa si Jed. Naguluhan ako sa kanya. Hindi ko alam kung ano ba ang
nakakatawa. Bigla siyang tumingin sa akin.
"Hindi mo na ba natatandaan?"
"Ang ano?"
"Before, when you were in grade three nakipag away ka sa mga Chinese schoolmates
natin dahil pinaglalaruan nila yung pusa. Even though you are being bullied that
time by those Chinese boys and girls you stand in front of that cat while they are
throwing stones at you."
Muntik ko nang makalimutan 'yon. Pero sa totoo lang, pilit kong kinalimutan ang mga
masasamang alaala ko noong pagka-bata.
Then I remember Jed came to rescued me. Napangiti ako. I never thought that he
could still remember those moments.
"And you came to rescued me. Napaaway ka pa nga noon dahil sa akin. And you ended
up suspended together with those kids dahil sa nangyari."
We both laugh.
Unti-unti na kaming umuusad sa traffic. Pero sa kasamaang palad, hindi na kami

makadaan pa sa kalsadang daraanan namin. Ang lalim na ng tubig baha at hindi na rin
kaya pang lumusong ng sasakyan ni Jed sa daan. Baka tumirik lang kami sa gitna.
I snooze. Nilalamig na rin ako.
"I think we should find a hotel. Doon na muna tayo mag stay para makapag-patuyo na
rin tayo ng damit. Baka magkasakit ka pa." His voice was so concerned.
I just nod.
We drive back and look for a hotel.
Buti na lang at may hotel kaming nadaanan.

Habang nakikipag-usap si Jed sa receptionist tina-try kong tawagan yung yaya ni
Sab.
[Hello po ma'am Leila.]
"Manang tulog na po ba si Sabrina?"
[Ay opo tulog na po siya ma'am. Malapit na po ba kayo? Nakatulog na po si Sab sa

kaka-hintay sa inyo.]
"Yun nga po manang, baha po kasi sa daan. Eh hindi po makatawid ang sasakyan sa
daan. Manang paki bantayan po si Sabrina baka mamaya pa po ako makauwi. "
[Sige po ma'am Leila. Ingat po kayo.]
"Sige po. Tabihan niyo na lang po si Sabrina pag-tulog."
Then I hang up. I felt relieved na tulog na si Sabrina but I am not comfortable
with the situation I am having right now with Jed.
"They only have one room and a single bed." He said.
Napalunok ako. I just nod at him.
Umakyat na kami papunta sa room. Jed opens the door.
It looks just fine for me. The cost of the hotel was cheap at ayon naman sa
services and facilities ang price. Malinis naman at fully air conditioned ang
kuwarto.
"Mauna ka nang maligo. Mayroon daw bath robe at heater yung banyo."
"A-ah o-ok sige." Nauutal ako. I am feeling nervous. Kasama ko si Jed sa iisang
kuwarto and were stranded dahil sa lakas ng ulan.
Agad akong pumasok ng banyo at nag-shower. Hindi ko alam kung paano ako lalabas ng
banyo habang nasa labas si Jed at naghihintay. I sighed looking at my face in front
of the mirror. Nakita ko yung hair blower. I just blow dry my hair first para hindi
naman isipin ni Jed na nagmamadali akong maligo.
Hindi ko alam kung inabot ba ako ng isang oras sa banyo but I was surprised nang
lumabas ako ng bathroom.
"You can just hang your wet clothes over there." Itinuro niya yung sampayan malapit
sa sliding window. I nod at sinunod ang sinabi niya.
Habang isinasampay ko yung mga damit ko, I watch Jed as he watches the news. I
watch every detail of his face.
His nose... His soft lip... His thick lashes...
Agad kong ibinaling ang tingin ko sa sampayan at damit ko nang bigla siyang
tumingin sa akin.
"Uhm, Leila? I bought you earlier a pair of clothes and disposable underwear. You
can just put it on after you do that." I just blush.
"You don't have to do that Jed. B-but th-thanks." I smile.
"I am the reason after all kung bakit tayo nandito." He pointed out the television
using the remote control. "Looks like we are staying here for tonight. May bagyo
pala at sobrang lakas ng hanigin sa labas."
Nakaramdam ako ng pag-aalala kay Sabrina. She's with her yaya but I am not
comfortable not being with her side.
"Don't worry. I'll take you home. Your daughter will be fine." Jed made me secure.
I just nod.
After kong makapag-palit ng damit ay binigyan ako ni Jed ng gamot.
"Take that. Para hindi ka tuluyang magkasakit."
"Thank you, Jed." Then I take the medicine.
I am feeling cold. I sit down on the bed and cover myself the blanket as I watch
from the television. Jed was on the bathroom.
Nanunood ako ng balita nang biglang mamatay ang ilaw.
Napatili ako sa sobrang gulat. Agad kong tinakpan ang dalawang tainga ko at
pumikit.
It was too dark and I can hear the thunder storm outside.
I am so scared.
I am still afraid of the dark...
Lalong bumibilis ang tibok ng puso ko sa sobrang takot ko. Biglang may humawak sa
balikat ko. From the light outside, I saw Jed with his eyes full of concern.
Agad ko siyang niyakap ng mahigpit sa sobrang takot ko. I almost cry.
"Please, Jed. Don't leave me alone here. Natatakot ako..."
Para akong bata... I was like a child who was lost and looking for her home.
Jed hugs me back and tries to calm me down as he pats my back. I felt quite
relieved because of that.
"Shh... Calm down Leila. You'll be fine now. Nandito na ko. Hindi kita iiwan..." he
holds my hand and sits beside me.
Idinantay niya ang ulo ko sa kanyang balikat and he taps my arms as his one hand
holding mine.
It felt like I found my home. Like I am never going to lose this home.
I fell asleep like that. Until the rain stops.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Find a heart that will love you at your worst,
And arms that will hold you at your weakest...
-----------------------------------------------------------------
I cannot commit. Kakatapos lang ng Midterm Exams ko. Then I have my 1st pre-board
exam sa Feb 27 & 28. HUHUHUHU. February's been a very busy month. :((( Basta after
my pre-board. Mag update ulit ako okay? ;))
What is pre-board? Board exam po siya sa isang review school (e.g CPA Review
School, Review School for Accountancy, PSBA-QC CPA Review School) for accountancy.
This can test you if you are ready to take the actual CPA board exam. :) Though, I
am still in under grad pero I need to work out for my actual review. Graduating na
ko this summer! HAHAHAHA! Gusto kong maging CPA. Kaya mag aral rin kayo ng maigi
ha?
Love you Wifies~! :**thanks for understanding me ALWAYS. I owe a lot to you guys.
~ChecheAnne :">

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The Miserable Wife

The Miserable Wife by Ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ Ⓐ ⓝ ⓝ ⓔ

~The Miserable Wife written by Ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ ⓒ ⓗ ⓔ Ⓐ ⓝ ⓝ ⓔ~

To love and to cherish...

In sickness and in health...

Until death they do as part...

Once I dreamed of it...

The one that will love me and will be faithful...

The one I can be with through good and bad times...

I think I found that one...

For once, I think I found that one...

"This guy is the one I am gonna share the half of my life"

Ganun ko siya ka mahal

Even I am miserable living with him...

Even if it likes a hell to be with him...

I'll endure all those pain just to be with him...

'coz he's the one I loved...

And I am his miserable wife...

I hope you like it!

Thank you sa magbabasa! Kung meron man =______=

God bless! :">

Copyright©2013 ChecheAnneStories. All Rights Reserved.

“Honey, gising na. baka ma-late ka pa.” Sabi ko.

Hinawakan ko siya sa balikat. “Jed, gumising ka na. breakfast is ready.” Sabay

“ANO BA!” sabay tabig sa kamay ko.

Bumangon siya sa pagkakahiga habang hawak ang ulo niya.

Natatakot akong magalit sa akin si Jed at iwan ako.

“Nakahanda na ba pagkain ko?” hindi niya ako pinatapos sa pagsasalita.

“Oo, nakahanda na yung almusal mo sa dining table... ihahanda ko na yung pampaligo

Lumabas siya ng kuwarto.

Agad kong ihinanda yung pampaligo niya.

Nakabihis na si Jed. Ready na siya para pumasok.

Kailangan ko munang tapusin lahat ng gawaing bahay dito.

Kahit na alam ng buong mundong mag-asawa kami.

Pagkatapos ko sa lahat ng ginagawa ko, naligo na ako at nagbihis. Kailangan ko nang

Excited na ako kasi magkakasama na kami ni Jed sa iisang school.

Sa sobrang busy ng mata ko sa kakahanap sa asawa ko hindi ko napansin yung mga

Nadinig ko siyang tumatawa. Napatigil tuloy ako at tuming sa kanya.

“Salamat” iniabot niya sa akin yung mga papel na nagkalat. “Here”

“Th-thank y-you.” nasabi ko.

Sa unang pagkakataon... may pumuri sa akin... sa unang pagkakataon may kumausap sa

Sana, makita ko siya ulit.

Nagpatuloy ako sa paghahanap. I still have time to find my husband.

Napatigil ako sa paglalakad. Nadinig ko kasi ang pangalan ng asawa ko.

Nagtatawanan, nagbibiruan... mga bagay na hindi namin nagagawa...

Parang nadurog yung puso ko.

Then suddenly, someone taps my shoulder.

“Jed!” tawag ko.

“Anong Kelangan mo?” masungit na tanong ni Jed.

Ihiniga ko si Jed sa kama. Balak ko na sanang kumuha ng maligamgam na tubig at

“Leila? Bakit ikaw pa?”

“C’mon hija, tanggapin mo na kasi ang tulong ko.”

“I guess, this is what I can do for now...” Hinigpitan niya ang pagkakahawak sa

Sa sobrang pagka-wala ko sa sarili, nawala rin sa isip ko na naglalakad ako at

“I’m sorry. Wala kasi ako sa sarili ko.” sabi ko sabay yuko.

This guy is really weird. He always laughs whenever we met.

“Bakit ka ba kasi wala sa sarili mo kanina?” tanong niya habang nalilinis yung

“Dahil sa asawa ko na hindi ako kayang mahalin.” Walang habas kong sabi.

“What? May asawa ka?” Napatungo ulit ako.

I just nod as an answer. “For serious? You’re already married?” hindi talaga siya

A few moments of silence again. Then I break the glass.

“You know...” napatingin ako sa kanya. He look curious on what will I say. “Ang

“Sy? Looks familiar to me.”