Forbidden Affair

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DISCLAIMER

This is the fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents
are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner.
Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely
coincidental.

Do not distribute, publish, transmit, modify or create derivative works from or

exploit the contents of this story in any way.

Please obtain my permission, and please let me know immediately if you know anyone
copying this story or posting it in any website.

WARNING

This story contains a lots of vulgar words and curses. Mahaba-habang listahan ng
mura ang
mababasa sa storyang ito, kaya kung inosente ka hindi ka mahilig doon, kindly
delete my story on your library

___________________

"I don't care if I lose everything. As long as I have you, I'm fine losing them."

Comment
Prologue
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Prologue

Napasimangot ako nang bumungad sa akin ang pagmumukha ni Sam, nakangiti at may
mapanuksong tingin. She's wearing a blue dress making her look like not a mother at
all.

"Hey, masungit na flight attendant!" she happily yelled and embraced me.

Bumitaw naman sa pagkakahawak ko si Jarren at nakipagfist-bump sa anak ni Sam na

nakangiti ng matipid. He really looks like his father, Ice.

"I'm very happy you make it here, Vielle!" Sam said.

Pabiro ko itong inirapan. "How can I refuse when you already sent the chopper for
us, Sam?"

Ngumiti ng matamis si Sam. "It's time to face your fears, darling. You see, I'm
just like you before."

"Yours aren't forbidden as mine, Sammy," I said.

May kumuha sa mga bagahe namin ni Jarren. Naglibot naman ako ng paningin sa loob ng
airport at bumuntong hininga. Sam held my wrist and pulled me into a walk. Si
Jarren naman at ang anak ni Sam na si Kai ay magkasabay na naglakad.

Sam sent a private chopper owned by the Imperials for us, my son. She invited me to
her wedding day and seriously, it will be held next week. Napag-isipan ni Kuya Ice
na dito sila ikasal sa hindi ko malaman na dahilan. Maybe it's because walang
divorce ang Pinas? Oh, well. Whatever reason is that, I don't care. Isang linggo
lang naman ako dito dahil iyon lang ang araw  na naka-leave ako.

"Sa bahay ka nalang manatili, Vielle," Sam suggested. "You know, para may kasama si
Jarren at nang hindi si Alea ang mapagtripan ni Kai."

Napangiti ako nang mabakasan ko ang frustration sa mukha ni Sam. Isang taon na din
simula nang huli kaming magkita, and I think her baby is already in her one year
old. I'm happy for her and kuya Ice.

I wish I can be this lucky like her. I whispered to myself. Nakakainggit lang dahil
pumapanig talaga sa kanila ang tadhana. Hindi ko maiwasang humiling na sana ganoon
din ang sitwasyon ko. Ngunit hindi. What me and my brother committed was a sin. The
product of that sin was Jarren, the exact replica of my brother. Of his father.

"Congratulations," I said to her.

Tumingin ito sa akin at ngumiti. "Thank you."

Pumasok kami sa isang nakatambay na van. Nasa backseat ang dalawang makukulit na
bata habang kami naman ni Sam ay nasa gitnang bahagi ng van. Nang makaupo kami ay
bahagya niyang pinisil ang kamay ko.

I look at her. "Hmm?"

"Are you ready to face them? I mean, paano mo maihaharap si Jarren sa mga magulang
mo? Are you gonna visit alone or with your son?"

I smiled sadly. "I'll pay them a visit with Jarren. Magrarason nalang ako tungkol
sa kung bakit magkamukha ang anak ko at si Kuya."

"Okay." She nodded. "I heard your brother will be marrying a senator's daughter."
Malungkot ako nitong tinignan.

I smiled. "Hindi na ako mangingialam kay kuya, Sammy. It's his life. Hindi naman
siguro pakakasalan ni kuya ang babaeng 'yun kung hindi niya mahal, 'di ba?"

I felt my heart ripped. But now what? Hindi naman siguro ako tanga para pigilan ang
kasal niya. The day I left his condo, is the day I left his life. Whatever happens
to him doesn't concerned me anymore. Well, yeah. It's quite painful, but I can
handle the pain just fine.

"Ano ba 'yan! Let's not be dramatic here. You came here for my wedding, not to be
sad and
have a dramatic conversation." Umirap si Sam na ikinangiti ko.

Napatingin ako sa labas ng bintana, the weather is fine. But heart isn't. My heart
is bleeding and it's not fine.

--

"Mommy, is my lola kind?" tanong ni Jarren habang nagmamaneho ako sa aming

sinasakyan.

I glanced at him sitting on the passenger seat and smiled. "Yes, baby."
He's wearing a white tshirt printed with Levi's and a black pants paired with his
favorite shoes. Air force1 colored white. 

Hindi ko makuha sa batang ito kung saan niya nakuha ang pagiging mapili sa
pananamit.

Maybe from his father. Said by a voice inside my head. 

I took a deep breath as I saw the Martinez' mansion. It's time. 

Nang makarating kami sa gate ng mansiyon ay pinara kami ng security.

"Ma'am Vielle? Kayo po pala! Maligayang pagbabalik! Tuloy po kayo," nagagalak na

saad niya.

Pinakitaan ko lang ito ng isang tipid na ngiti bago pinausad papasok sa loob ang
aking sasakyan. 

"Woah. Is that a fountain?" Tinuro ni Jarren ang fountain na nasa gitna ng malawak
na circle.

"Yes, baby." I chuckled when he clapped his hands.

My baby's happiness is also mine. Isa sa mga rason kung bakit nawiwili ako kay
Jarren, at 'yun ay kahit gaano kaliit na bagay ay ina-appreciate niya. 

"We're here, baby." I took a deep breath. 

My palms were sweating cold. Kinakabahan din ako. Kinakabahan ako sa maaring
reaksiyon ni mama kapag nakita niya si Jarren.

"Mommy, are you okay?" tanong ng bata.

Tumikhim ako at ngumiti. "Of course, I am. Let's go?"

Tumango ang bata at tinanggal ang kanyang seatbelt. I moved out from the car and
opened the door for my son. Lumabas naman ito dala ang isang ngiti na nakakahawa
kung tingnan. I smiled and held his small hands. May sumalubong sa aming isang
lalaki at parang nagulat sa pagdating ko. 

"Please park my car." I threw him the keys. 

"M-ma'am Vielle..." gulat nitong anas.

I shook my head. Nang mapantay namin ito, bahagya kong tinapik ang kanyang balikat.
"Park it now. Ibigay mo na lang sa'kin mamaya."

Tumango ito at sinunod ang utos ko. Nagbaba naman ako ng tingin sa anak kong
naglilibot rin ng tingin. 

"This mansion is very big," he murmured. 

Napangiti nalang ako. "Let's get inside?" 

Tumango ang bata. As we took our step someone called my name.

"Vielle?" 

Napaangat ako ng tingin at doon ko nakita ang ina kong maluha-luha habang
nakatingin sa akin. 

"Ma..." I keep fighting with my tears not to fall.

"I-ikaw nga!" Mabilis ang mga hakbang nito at sinalubong ako sa isang mahigpit na
yakap. 

Pansamantala kong binitawan ang kamay ng aking anak upang sagutin ang kanyang
yakap. 

"I missed you!" she exclaimed.

I chuckled. "I missed you too, ma." 

Kumalas ito sa yakap at kinapa ang braso ko. "You're already mature now." 

"Mommy..." tawag pansin ni Jarren dahilan upang magbaba ng tingin si mama dito.

"Uhm..." Inakay ko si Jarren at kinarga. Sinusundan naman siya ng tingin ni mama na

may halong pagtataka. "Ma, this is Jarren Martinez. My son."

"A-anak mo?" Ang luhang nangingilid sa mga mata niya kanina ay biglang tumulo.

Mas dumoble pa ang kaba na nararamdaman ko kanina. "O-opo, ma." 

Napatakip ito ng kanyang bibig. And I thought is that, she'll throw bad and foul
word at me. But I was wrong. She offered to carry my son. 

Halos lumukso sa tuwa ang puso ko nang kargahin na ito ni mama. She's crying. While
Jarren is looking at her questioningly.

"Why are you crying?" biglang tanong ng bata.

"Apo ko..." Niyakap ni mama ang bata na nagpaluha sa akin. "Another legacy of the
family." 

"M-ma..." I stammered.

Tumingin si mama sa akin at hinawakan ang aking kamay habang buhat niya sa kabila
niyang braso ang aking anak. 

"Pasok ka. I'll make you meals. Alam kong napagod kayo sa biyahe." 

This is not what I expected. 

Pinunasan ko muna ang mga luha sa aking mga mata bago ako sumunod sa kanya papasok
sa
mansiyon.

She immediately ordered the maids to make meals for us. Ide-decline ko na sana nang
umiling si mama. 

"How old are you, Jarren?" tanong ni mama at umupo sa isang single sofa, kandong si
Jarren.

"I'm six years old," my son politely replied.

I saw mama smiled and hugged my son again. "For almost seven years, tinatago mo
pala sa amin ang anak mo." 
Napaiwas ako ng tingin. "I'm sorry, ma." 

"It's okay." She kissed my son's cheeks and stare at his face. "He looks like your
brother." 

Bumalik ang kaba ko kanina. "P-po?" 

Umiling ito. "Kung naging babae lang siguro 'to, baka kamukha mo." She chuckled.

I bit my lower lip. Buti naman wala ng tinanong sa akin si mama. "Siguro po. M-
malakas lang siguro talaga ang dugo ng mga Martinez."

"Tama ka nga." She heaved a deep breath. 

Napatingin ako kay Jarren nang maglikot ito. "I need to pee."

Napatayo ako ngunit agad rin akong sinita ni mama. "Jean, kindly assist my grandson
to the bathroom." 

"Yes po, ma'am," magalang na sagot ng isang kasambahay at kinuha si Jarren kay
mama. 

"Nasaan ang ama niya?" she asked. 

Akala ko wala na. "H-hindi ko po kilala, ma." 

Nangunot ang noo nito. "Paanong hindi mo kilala? Lumaki ba ang apo ko na walang
ama?" 

My heart starts to ache. "Y-yes." Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. "P-pero it's
okay if hindi niyo tanggap ang anak ko. isang linggo lang—"

"Who told you that?" Tumayo ito at tumabi ng upo sa akin. She held my hand and
squeezed it gently. "I'm just disappointed, but I'm proud of you, Vielle."

"M-ma—"

"Daze!" Tumayo si Mama habang nakatingin sa likuran ko. 

Wala sa sarili akong napalingon at halos manlumo sa batang karga ni kuya Daze.

"Is this your son?" 

Fuck.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 1
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Chapter 1

“Get up, Vielle. Mag-impake ka na.” My mom suddenly slammed my door open.

Hindi ako nag-angat ng tingin sa kanya. “Ayokong sumama, ma. Kayo na lang.”

I’m still busy memorizing here and I have no plans of having an early vacation.
Besides, isang gabi lang naman siguro ipagdadaos ang pasko, 'di ba?

I heard her took a deep breath. “We patiently waited for your vacation, Elle. Take
a break from studies and spend christmas with us.”

Dito na ako nag-angat ng tingin. My mom's pleading eyes were really pursuading me
to come with them. “Isang taon nalang, ma. Next year, graduate na ako. Sa bagong
taon na lang siguro ako, ma. Hahabol ako.”

“No.” She shook her head. “Your brother is looking for you and he demands to see
you.”

Otomatiko akong natigilan sa paglilipat-lipat ng pahina sa binabasa kong libro. I

lifted my gaze on her and saw how serious she was. Napabuntong-hininga ako at
muling nagbaba ng tingin sa libro.

“Just tell him I can’t come, ma. I still need to finish some projects. At isa pa,
I'm running as suma-cum laude. It’s his condition for me. Siguro naman ay papayag
na siyang hindi ako sumama.” I look at her. “I promise, this would be the last
christmas I'm not gonna spend with you. Babawi ako sa susunod na taon.”

My mother look at me and smile. “Sige, sasabihin ko nalang ‘yan sa kuya mo. Take a
break and relax sometimes, Elle. No night outs, okay?”

Hindi ko maiwasang mapairap. Seriously, matagal na akong tumigil sa night-outs na

‘yan magmula nang ma-grounded ako ng ilang buwan. My brother is that strict. He
even threatens to lockdown my school if they don’t make follow-ups about my
studies. That manipulative jerk. So full of himself. Porket siya na ang may hawak
ng lahat ng kayamanan ng mga martinez.

“I already refrain from night-outs, ma,” I retorted.

Nginitian lang ako ni mama at nagpaalam na mag-eempake na siya. Laking pasalamat ko

nalang din para makapag-memorize ako na walang ingay. I need to memorize this.
Marami pa akong kailangang tapusin, and I only have two weeks to finish it all.
Kaya wala akong oras para maipagdiriwang ang pasko.

Nangunot ang noo ko nang mag-vibrate ang aking cellphone sa gilid ng geography book
ko. I picked up my phone to see who’s the caller. At mas lalong nangunot ang noo ko
nang mapagtanto kong hindi ko kilala ang numero ng tumatawag.

“Hello?” I answered, finally getting up from lying on my bed. “This is Vielle

Martinez, speaking. Who’s this?”

But what I only heard is breathing. Moments later, the caller ended the call.
Nagtataka kong tinignan ang aking screen at napamulagat nang may mensaheng lumitaw
sa aking notification panel. I immediately swipe it open.

Unknown:

Bring your homeworks here in Bora. Spend this Christmas with us, Diana.

Nakagat ko ang aking ibabang labi. Kahit na walang pasabi kung sino ang nagmensahe
sa’kin, I know who it was. Isang tao lang naman ang tumatawag sa akin ng Diana. And
that’s my brother, Daze Jaden.

Wala sa sarili kong ibinagsak ang aking katawan sa kama at napatulala sa kisame ng
aking silid. My phone is on my right hand while my left hand is holding my chest
that was pounding so fast.
Bakit niya ba ako gustong pumunta?

--

“I thought you won’t come?” takang tanong ni mama nang mapansin niyang may bitbit
akong dalawang maleta.

Nang makababa ako ng hagdanan ay pilit akong ngumiti. “Kuya called last night.”

Napangiti naman si Mama habang si Papa ay focus lang sa pagtitipa ng kanyang

cellphone. “That’s good.”

“Yeah,” sagot ko at hilaw na ngumiti.

“Let’s go,” Papa said and placed back his phone on his pocket.

Kinuha ng dalawang guwardiya ang aking dalawang maleta. Mama and papa walked
towards ng door and I followed. Pinasak ko sa aking tenga ang earplugs ko at
nilakasan ang volume. Listening to music is my hobby, but music doesn’t like me.
Sintunado ako kung kumanta kaya nakikinig na lang ako.

“Hop in, young lady,” sambit ni mama na ikinairap ko.

Martinez is quite known in our town because of the power. Hindi ko sila masisisi.
Martinez clan are all rich. Walang patapon. Marami din kaming negosyo na sumikat.
So it’s normal for me to be called ‘young lady’.

“What the hell are you wearing, Elle?” tanong ni mama nang makapasok ako ng
sasakyan.

I didn’t heed her any attention. Sumandal kaagad ako sa aking kinauupuan at pinikit
ang aking mga mata. It’s not that I haven’t got enough sleep, ayoko lang talaga
marinig ang mga pangangaral ni mama.

She hates it when I’m wearing shorts and some skin revealing clothes. Hindi ko rin
alam kung bakit ngayon lang niya napuna ang aking suot samantalang nagkausap kami
sa sala kanina.

“Be a good girl to your brother, Elle,” Papa said in a low voice as the car starts
to move.

Napasimangot ako. “Matagal na akong good girl, pa.”

Tumango si papa. “Don’t give your brother headaches.”

“What do you mean?” I asked. “Bakit ka namamaalam?”

He chuckled, busy naman si mama sa pakikipag-usap sa telepono niya. “Your mother

and I will be having Christmas on Paris. Maiiwan ka sa Bora.”

“What?!” Tinaggal ko ang earphone na nakapasak sa aking tenga at malalaki ang mga
matang tinignan siya. “Then babalik nalang ako sa mansi—”

“That’s a big no, young lady. Ayaw naming magpasko kang mag-isa. An emergency
meeting called that’s why we’ll have our Christmas there. Don’t worry, uuwi kami
bago mag-bagong taon,” Papa said in an assuring tone and I can’t help but to rolled
my eyes.
“Whatever,” I replied. My bitchy attitude really loves to butt-in all of a sudden.

Sakto namang inanunsiyo na ng driver na nasa airport na kami. Naunang bumaba si

papa at inalalayan kami ni mama sa pagbaba. Bitbit pa rin ng mga bodyguard nila
papa ang aming mga bagahe hanggang sa makarating kami sa loob ng paliparan. I also
put back my earphones and continue listening to music.

“Bilisan mong maglakad, Elle. Mahuhuli tayo sa flight.” Pagsusungit ni mama.

Nakatinginan kami ni papa at sabay na nagkibit-balikat. Bad mood si mama. Well,

hindi na bago ang ganyang ugali niya. I think I inherited that attitude from her.
Sometimes nice, always bitchy.

Nang makasakay kami ng eroplano ay giniya kami ng flight attendant sa aming upuan.
My dream job. The dream job which me took tourism as my course. The FA smiled at us
after she pointed our seats. Nagpasalamat naman si papa samantalang si mama ay
grumpy na umupo sa kanyang upuan. I wonder paano napagtitiisan ni papa ang ugali ni
mama?

Oh, well. It’s none of my business. As long as they we’re together, okay na.
Ayokong magkaroon ng broken family. That’s horrible.

“Isang oras lang ang biyahe, Vielle. Don’t ever think of sleeping,” Mama said.

I look at her and smiled sweetly before leaning on the window and close my eyes.
Wala naman akong gagawin dito sa eroplano bukod sa tumunganga, ‘di ba?

Mabilis lang talaga ang naging biyahe. Nakaidlip lang ako ng ilang minuto ngunit
agad din akong inuga ni papa. Maybe I'll just sleep later.

Papikit-pikit pa ako habang naglalakad sa aisle ng eroplano. Tanging si papa lang

kinapitan ko para hindi ako matalisod sa paglalakad. Bed is calling me. Gusto ko
nang makarating kami agad para makapagpahinga kami.

“Mister and Misses Martinez, this way please,” I heard someone talked.

Nagsimula nang maglakad si papa habang ako ay nakakapit pa rin sa balikat niya. I’m
a father’s girl, but my attitude was from my mother’s. Hindi kami masyadong
magkasundo dahil kasing-higpit niya si kuya, while papa spoils me. Minsan ay
tinutulungan niya ako sa pag-cover up ng reason para  hindi ako mapagalitan ni
Kuya.

“Stop clinging on your father’s arms and hop in inside, Elle,” sambit ni mama.

Dinilat ko na ang aking mga mata at nakasimangot na sumakay sa isang kulay gray na
van. Pumwesto ako sa may pinakalikod at sumandal sa bintana. Si papa ay nasa front
seat samantalang si Mama ay katabi ko.

“Did you bring your homeworks?” she asked.

Tumango ako at ini-unlock ang aking phone. “Bakit?”

“That’s what I heard from your brother. Sabi niya tutulungan ka niyang matapos
kaagad homeworks mo para makapag-enjoy ka sa pasko.”

Tumango ako kahit hindi ko maintindihan ang sinabi niya. My music’s volume is high
for crying out loud! Hindi ko masyadong ma-comprehend ang sinasabi niya kaya
tumango nalang ako.
Hindi na siya nagsalita pa, kaya mas pinili ko nalang din ipikit ang aking mga
mata. But I guess it’s a very wrong idea. Kuya Daze’s face came into the view as
soon as I closed my eyes. Wala sa sarili kong kinuyom ang aking kamao habang
nakapikit. I hate him.

Matagal-tagal na rin magmula ng huli naming pagkikita. I guess it was two years
ago? I
can’t recall. Hindi kasi siya mahilig umuwi ng mansiyon. Marami siyang bahay at
condo, kaya bakit pa siya uuwi ng bahay? Isa na rin siguro ‘yan sa
ipinagpapasalamat ko. I hate his presence to the core! God knows how I hate him.

“Baba ka na, Elle. Nandito na tayo,” I heard mom said.

I took a deep breath before opening my eyes. Kinusot-kusot ko pa ito at nag-inat ng

braso. I yawned before following mother out of the car.

“Maligayang pagdating po sainyo,” The lady in a maid outfit greeted us.

Naglibot ako ng paningin. Ngayon ko lang napansin ang malamig na hanging dumadampi
sa balat ko. Napakaaliwalas din ng paligid. I can smell the salty air coming from
the ocean which excites me. May malalaki ding puno ng niyog dito malapit sa
resthouse ni kuya, ngunit walang bunga.

“Please, come in.” The lady politely guided us inside.

Napahawak naman ako sa braso ni papa. “Andito si kuya?”

Narinig siguro ako ng maid kaya tumigil ito at nakangiting binalingan ako. “Kasama
niya pong umalis si Miss Taliah para magsimba. Mamayang gabi pa po siguro sila
makakauwi.”

“Who’s Taliah?” I asked. Sino si Taliah? Girlfriend niya?

“Taliah is your brother’s fiancée,” nakangiting tugon ni mama na ikinasimangot ko.

Tingnan mo ‘to. Kapag ako nagka-boyfriend, galit na galit, tapos kapag si kuya
nagka-girlfriend, nangingiti pa at tuwang-tuwa. Ang unfair talaga.

“Okay,” I replied.

Naglibot ako ng paningin sa paligid. May malaking chandelier sa gitna, may isang
mahabang sofa na kulay gray at dalawang pang-isahan na kapwa kulay gray din. The
curtains were in color dirty white and the tiled floor were designed by blue
marbles. May naka-hang ding mga paintings at frames na may lamang litrato ng mga
tourist spots sa pader. It’s a two storey house, not bad for a resthouse.

“Sinabihan na po ako ni Senyorito sa mga magiging silid ninyo.” The lady never took
her smile off from her lips.

Tumango si mama. “May silid ba dito sa baba? Nakakatamad na umakyat ng second

floor.”

Mahina akong humagikhik sa narinig. Tumikhim naman si papa, siguro ay nagpipigil ng

tawa. My mom is a lady person, period.

“Opo, senyora. Nalinis na po namin ang silid na uukupahin ninyo.” The lady look at
me. “Pinapasabi din ni Senyorito na doon ka mananatili sa pangalawang palapag.”

The lady called someone and that someone came out from the kitchen— I guess?
“Samahan mo si Senyorita sa kanyang silid.” The lady said.

Napangiwi ako. Senyorita? Are they using Italian to address their masters? I
shrugged. I don’t care, I need to rest.

Nilapitan ako ng babaeng tinawag ng mayordoma. Yeah, maybe siya ang mayordoma.

“Tara po?” nakangiting tanong nito.

I nodded my head and excused myself from mama and papa. Sinundan ko naman kaagad
ang babaeng naunang naglakad paakyat ng hagdan. Tinanggal ko ang pagkakapasak ng
earphone sa aking tenga at bumuntong hininga. Nang makarating kami ng pangalawang
palapag, huminto kami sa isang pinto.

“Ito po ang magiging silid ninyo, Senyorita. Ang sa kabila po ay kay Senyorito
Daze.” She pointed the door few meters away from us.

I nodded. “Thank you,”

“Walang anuman po. Tawagin niyo nalang po ako kung may kinakailangan kayo,” she
politely replied before walking her way down the stairs.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga bago pinihit ang door knob pabukas. And there is
only one thing inside my head.

I’ll sleep until midnight so I can finish my homeworks.

I entered the room and roam my eyes around. Napangiwi ako nang masyadong girly ang
silid. Everything is in color peach and pink. Masakit sa mata.

Napailing ako at naglakad patungo sa malaking kama na pinapalibutan ng peach na

mosquito net. Wala pa akong panahon upang punahin ang paligid. Pagod ang katawan
ko. I dropped myself into bed and closed my eyes. Mamaya na ako magbibihis. Bed is
calling me.

After a few minutes, darkness finally eats me. Ngunit agad rin akong naalimpungatan
nang maramdaman kong may malambot na bagay ang dumampi sa labi ko.

I badly want to open my eyes, but I’m still sleepy. Maybe this is just a dream.

“Sleep and we’ll talk later.”

Senyorita Anji

Chapter 2
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Chapter 2

"Senyorita Vielle, kakain na daw po.” Someone knocked on the door.

Ibinaba ko ang hawak kong blower at nilingon ang nakasaradong pinto. “Susunod po
ako.”

“Sige po, Senyorita,” the maid responded and it was followed by footsteps.

Napahugot ako ng malalim na hininga at muling tumingin sa salamin na nasa harap ko.
I’m starting to have dark bags under my eyes. Siguro ito ang resulta ng mga puyat
ko dahil sa mga projects.

This is what kuya wants and I want to achieve it. Ayokong isipin niyang puro lang
gala at pagpa-party ang alam ko. I want to prove him I am better. Kasi ‘yun ang
gusto niya daw makita. Ganyan pala talaga kapag magtatapos kang suma-cum laude at
bar top-nocher, lalaki ang ulo. That makes him so full of himself.

Tinanggal ko sa saksakan ang blower at inilapag ito sa vanity dresser na kulay

peach. Speaking of the color, I can’t help my self not to roll my eyes. My brother
really thinks I’m girly. From the soft matress, the comforter, the pillow covers,
and the curtains, are all colored peach while the wall, ceiling, closet, and LED
light are all pink. Damn, fan ba si kuya ng hello kitty?

Humikab ako at muling pinasadahan ng tingin ang aking suot. A maroon satin
spaghetti strap sando and a dolphin satin short na maroon din. I love this terno.
Hindi siya magaspang sa balat, mas madali rin akong makatulog kapag ito ang suot
ko.

Agad na akong tumayo at naglakad palabas ng aking silid. Hindi ko maiwasang

mapangiwi habang nakatingin sa aking suot na slippers. Hello Kitty design. I
mentally groaned while
making my way downstairs. I’m not boyish, I’m not girly either. But hell, bakit
ganito ang mga gamit na gagamitin ko?

“After decades, you finally arrived.” Bungad ni mama nang makapasok ako ng dining
area.

My gaze darted on the person who’s silently eating and not bothering to lift his
eyes on me. My jerk brother. Wala itong imik, ni-hindi nga ako nito tinignan.

“Sit down now, Elle,” Papa said.

Tumango lang ako at umupo sa upuang kaharap si kuya. The table is in square,
magkaharap si mama at papa samantalang magkaharap din naman kami ni kuya. Nababa
ako ng tingin sa aking plato nang maramdaman kong nag-angat si kuya ng tingin.
Ramdam ko ang panlalamig ng kamay ko habang nagsasandok ng makakain.

Halos mabilaukan na ako sa aking kinakain. Paano kaya sila mama nakakakain sa
presensiya ni kuya Daze? I can’t even swallow properly that I have to reach my
water and drink. Binaba ko ang aking mga kubyertos at kiming ngumiti.

“Ma—”

“We’ll be leaving tomorrow.” Nilingon ako ni mama. “Huwag mong papatigasin ang ulo
mo dito.”

Ang ngiti ko ay napalitan ng simangot. “Bakit bukas?”

“No more further questions, Diana,” biglang sabat ng taong walang imik ngunit
nakakamatay ang presensiya. “Proceed to my study room. We need to talk.”

Napanganga ako habang pinapanood siyang tumayo at iniwan kaming tatlo ni mama at
papa sa kusina.

“Go now, Elle,” Mom said.

Bumaling ako kay mama at halos mangiyak-ngiyak na nagsalita. “Ma...”

She look at me and chuckled. “Go on. Your brother won’t bite you.”
Bagsak ang mga balikat akong tumayo. Agad namang lumapit ang isang kasambahay at
giniya ako patungong study room ni kuya.

Ano ba kasing pag-uusapan namin? At bakit ba ako kinakabahan? Wala naman akong
kasalanan, ah? Maybe it’s because of my brother’s presence kaya ako kinakahan.
Yeah, right. Convince yourself, Vielle.

“Pasok na lang po kayo sa loob, Senyorita,” nakangiti nitong sambit.

Hilaw na ngiti lamang ang ipinakita ko dito. She excused herself, leaving me here,
facing the door and almost having a heart attack. Ano ba kasi ang pag-uusapan? I
groaned before knocking the door. Wala namang mangyayari kung tutunganga lang ako
sa labas ng pinto.

“Come in,” I heard a deep baritone voice inside, replying to my knock.

I took a very deep breath before pushing the door open. Kagat-labi akong pumasok ng
silid habang ang kamay ko ay nanginginig na nagsarado ng pinto sa aking likod. Nag-
angat ako ng tingin sa lalaking prenteng nakasandal sa kanyang swivel chair habang
mariing nakatitig sa’kin.

“Have a seat,” he said using his non-ending cold voice.

I gulped. “S-sige po,”

Wala sa sarili akong naglakad patungo sa kanyang visitor’s chair at doon umupo.
Magkadikit ang mga binti ko habang nakapatong naman sa kandungan ko ang aking
nanginginig na kamay. His presence would literally kill me.

“Relax,” he said.

Tipid akong ngumiti. “A-ano pong pag-uusapan natin?”

Nagbaba siya ng tingin sa librong nasa harap niya at naglipat ng pahina. “How’s
your study?”

Lumunok muna akong bago sumagot. “Mabuti naman po. Running as suma-cum laude.”

“Good to hear that.” He nodded. “No night-outs?”

Mabilis akong umiling. “Wala na po, kuya.”

“Boyfriend?”

“Wala po,” I replied.

He nodded. “Good.” He closed the book and stare at me. “Keep up the good work,
Diana. I’ll buy you a condo.”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko at halos mapaawang ang aking bibig. “P-po? Totoo?”

“Yeah,” tipid nitong sagot. “Matulog ka ng maaga. Dismiss.”

Marunong naman palang magtagalog, e. I snorted to myself.

“Sige po.” Malawak ang ngiti akong tumayo at nag-paalam.

I bit my lips to stop myself from grinning like and idiot while making my way out
of his study room. Damn, finally! A condo! Matagal ko ng pangarap magkaroon ng
condo na akin talaga. But now... hmm, magpupursige na’ko sa pag-aaral.

Ngunit bago pa ako makalabas ng pinto, tinawag ni kuya ang atensiyon ko.

“And, Diana...”

Nilingon ko ito habang kagat pa rin ang aking labi. “Po?”

“Use bra next time.”

Nangunot ang noo ko at nagbaba ang aking tingin sa aking dibdib. Napadiin ang kagat
ko sa aking labi at naramdaman ko ang pag-iinit ng aking pisngi.

Damn it!

“Ahh!” pagtitili ko sa hindi ko na mabilang na pagkakataon.

Mangiyak-ngiyak akong bumangon sa kama at tumingin sa vanity mirror na katabi ng

kama. Mas lalo pa akong tumili nang mapuna kong bakat na bakat talaga. Holy hell,
God knows wala akong malay tungkol dito!

I held my babies, yes, I called them babies. Bakit ba kasi bilog na bilog? One of
the traits I have that I hate the most. Minsan naiinggit ako sa iba na okay lang
kahit walang suot na bra kasi hindi naman nahahalata. But mine’s... nevermind.

“Putangina, Vielle. Nakakahiya,” I whispered to myself while looking at the mirror,

my reflection.

Napasabunot ako sa aking sarili at tumitig sa bintanang tinatakpan ng makapal na

kurtina. Tumayo naman ako at hinawi ito, revealing the sliding glass window and the
view outside. Wala naman sa sarili akong napangiti habang pinagmamasdan ang masilaw
na buwan’g nag-iilaw sa kalmadong karagatan.

I opened the sliding door and let the cold wind blow my curtain and some strands of
my hair. Napapikit ako sa lamig ng hangin. I rested my elbow on the window’s frame
and rested my chin on my palm. Nakangiti kong pinagmamasdan ang tanawin habang
naglalakbay ang alaala ko.

My brother was once my night-in-shinning-armour before.  Not until such incident

happened, and I start hating him because of that.

Napakurap-kurap ako nang mapansin kong nangingilid na ang mga luha sa mga mata ko.
I sniff and smiled sadly. That incident leads me to what I fear the most, right
now. He wasn’t my knight-in-shining-armour. He was the devil who disguised as an
angel. And I hate him for that.

Sinarado ko na ang bintana at muli itong tinakpan ng kurtina. Naglakad ako pabalik
ng aking kama at muling tumitig sa salamin. My fingers lifted on my sando’s strap
and carefully pulled it down. Napangiti ako nang makita ang bagay na nagsisimbolo
ng nakaraan ko. Ang rason kung bakit nagkalayo ang loob namin ni kuya.

Nanatili lang ang titig ko dito at sa hindi ko namalayan, humahagugol na ako. I

immediately wiped my tears and calmed myself. Muli kong inangat ang strap ng aking
damit at umalis sa kama. I looked for a slippers and when I found one, I wore it
and went outside the room.

Maingat ang mga hakbang ko, marahil ay magkatabi lamang ang silid na’min ni kuya.
Ayoko ring magising sila kaya halos walang hinga akong naglakad pababa ng hagdanan
hanggang sa makarating ako ng kusina. I silently looked for a glass, not bothering
to turn on the lights. Sanay naman na akong dim ang paligid, at isa pa, ayokong
isipin nilang gising pa ako kahit dakong alas tres na ng umaga.

Nang wala talaga akong mahanap, tumungo ako sa fridge at binuksan ito. A wicked
smile crept into my face as I saw some canned beers inside the fridge. Lumingon-
lingon pa ako sa paligid bago ko kinuha ang tatlong beer na nakaseparate. This must
be taste good.

Maingat kong sinarado ang fridge at naglakad palabas ng bahay, not minding how cold
outside was. Umupo ako sa isang bato malapit lang sa bahay ni kuya at nagbukas ng
isang lata ng beer. I wondered my eyes around and lifted it up to the sky. Hindi
naman ako nakaramdam ng takot dahil sa ako lang mag-isa. Nasa loob pa rin naman ako
ng gate ng resthouse kaya kampante lang ako.

Tatlong lagok lang ang ginawa ko sa isang lata at tinapon ito sa gilid na hindi
agad makikita. Lagot na kapag nabisto ako ni kuya.

Ganoon rin ang ginawa ko sa dalawa pang natira kaya mabilis lang itong naubos. I
glance at my wrist-watch and pout. It’s almost four. Kakaupo ko pa lang dito, e.

Tumayo na ako at bahagyang nagtaka nang makaramdam ako ng init. The wind is cold,
so why the hell I feel hot? I just shrugged. Maybe it was from my drink. Naglakad
na ako papasok ng bahay at pinagsawalang-bahala ang init na nararamdaman ko. Ngunit
‘yon na yata ang pinakamaling ginawa ko.

As I reached the living room, I dropped
the backrest. I slightly parted my lips
ng hininga. My body also feel so hot. I
feels weird. Mabilis ang pagtataas-baba
head is spinning and I feel so hot.
myself on the soft matress and leaned on
to breath. Pakiramdam ko ay mauubusan ako
even tapped my groin to calm myself. This
ng dibdib ko habang pinagpapawisan ako. My

Damn!

Pinilit ko ang sarili kong tumayo at naglakad paakyat ng hagdanan. I need to take a
cold shower. Mahigpit ang kapit ko sa handrail paakyat ng hagdan. At nang nasa
tuktok na ako, someone suddenly spoke.

“Bakit gising ka pa?”

Natigilan ako at nilingon ang taong biglang nagsalita. I took a step back and
almost fell down the stairs when he immediately wrapped his arms around my waist.
Napapikit ako sa takot at napakapit sa kanyang dibdib. I felt him turned around and
the next thing I felt is that I’m leaning against the handrail.

“K-kuya...” Stay away..

“Why are you still awake?” he repeated. I can smell the mixture of his mouthwash
and shampoo. Damn, I feel myself burning!

Napalunok ako. “U-uminom lang ako ng tubig.”

Magsasalita pa sana siya nang agad ko siyang tinabig at mabibilis ang mga hakbang
na nagtungo sa pinto ng aking silid. Ngunit hindi pa man ako nakakarating, nawalan
na ng lakas ang mga tuhod ko. My knees fell on the floor as my hands touched my
groin. Damn, mainit!

“What are you doing, Diana?” I heard him asked.

Since I’m only wearing a satin short, It’s easy for me to rub my groin and my heat
increased. Sumandal ako sa pader at nag-angat ng tingin kay kuya Daze na ramdam
kong nakatitig sa akin. I licked my lower lips as I felt it dry. I slapped my groin
for the last time before turning to reached the door knob when someone held my arms
and pulled me up.

“It was you who drank my beer,” he stated.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin. Darn this, sana hindi nalang ako bumaba. “Sorry.”

Hinawakan nito ang bewang ko na siyang ikinaigtad ko. The heat coming from his hand
increases the heat I’m feeling at the very moment. I groaned and tried to push him
to no avail. Hinigpitan niya ang kapit sa aking bewang.

“Stay still,” he said.

Hindi nalang ako umangal at hinayaan siyang alalayan ako papasok ng aking silid.
Habang tumatagal ay lumalala ang init na nararamdaman ko. I tried to even my
breathing but I just can’t. Mas lalo lamang akong nag-init nang marinig ko ang
pagsara ng pinto.

Habang may natitira pang katinuan ang isipan ko ay tinulak ko siya.

“Get out, I can handle myself now,” I murmured, but he didn’t listen.

Inalalayan niya pa ako pihiga sa kama. “Wala pang isang araw, Diana—”

I didn’t let him finished his sentence. I held his shirt and pulled him close,
letting our lips met. That’s when the heat I’m feeling suddenly ignited. All the
rationale thoughts inside my head were washed away by lust.

“What the fuck, Diana?!” he cursed, I was turned on.

Tangina, kailan pa ako na-turn on sa isang mura?

Ngayon pa lang.

At sa kuya ko pa.

My legs immediately wrapped around his waist to stop him from pulling away. Ramdam
kong sinusubukan niyang kumawala kaya agad ko siyang siniil ng mas malalim na
halik.

“Damn it, Diana.”

That’s when I know he lost it. He held my jaw and answered my kiss with the same
ferocity and need. He slid his tongue inside my mouth and wandered until he found
mine. Our tongue fought for dominance.

“Fuck!”

“Hmm...”

We both moaned and groaned. I can feel myself soaking wet. Mas nadagdagan ang init
ko nang maramdaman ko ang wallet niyang nakatusok sa gitna ng hita ko.

“Y-your wallet...” I whispered.

I heard him cussed for the last time before pulling himself away from me.
Nakapatong siya
sa ibabaw ko kung kaya’t kitang-kita ko kung paano niya hubarin ang kanyang
sinturon. He held my wrist and I was shocked when he wrapped his belt around my
both wrist.

“You need to stop, Diana.” He groaned. “You drank the drug.”

My eyes were half-close. “I need you, Daze.”

What the fuck am I saying?!

He stilled. “It’s the drug speaking.”

I don’t know what happened next. Unti-unti na akong hinila ng antok.

“I’m sorry, baby.”

Senyorita Anji

Chapter 3
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Chapter 3

“Yuck!”

“Did you saw her scars?”

“It’s kadiri.”

Napayuko ako habang naglalakad palapit sa cottage namin. I can’t help but to sob
slightly while listening how they talk behind my back. What’s wrong with my scars?
It’s not that I choose to have this as well.

Napangiti ako nang makita ko si kuya Daze na busy sa pagtitipa ng kanyang telepono.
Katabi nito ang bestfriend niyang si Hayden na nakasuot din ng swimsuit. Hindi ko
maiwasang pasadahan ng tingin ang buo niyang katawan at piping humiling na sana
ganyan din ako kakinis.

“Kuya!” I called him.

Nang lingunin ako nito ay malawak akong ngumiti. Sa lahat kasi, si kuya ang
nagpaparamdam sa akin na perpekto ako sa kabila ng mga flaws ko.

Sadness conquered me when I read the disgust stare along his cold eyes.. “What are
you doing here, Diana? And why are you wearing that?”

Nanubig ang mga mata ko sa narinig. “K-kuya—”

“Andito na pala si Miss Peklat,” mapang-uyam na sabi ni Hyden na sinundan ng tawa

ng iilan. “Hi.”

I look at kuya. “K-kuya Da—”

“Go back to the hotel room, Vielle. You don’t belong here,” pagpuputol ni Hyden sa
ano mang sasabihin ko. “Hindi talaga ako makapaniwalang kapatid mo ‘yan, Daze. She
has a lot of scars!”
Tuluyan na akong napaatras nang ismiran ako ni kuya. Tears flowed down my cheeks as
I run back to the hotel. Nakakahiya. Nahihiya at naaawa ako sa sarili ko.

Akala ko ipagtatanggol niya ako.

Akala ko lang pala...

He wasn’t my knight-in-shining armour anymore. 

He is now someone I hate the most.

Nang makapasok ako sa hotel room na inuukupa namin, I went directly in front of the
mirror. Tears keep falling on my cheeks as I whispered.

“I hate you, Daze Jaden.”

“Fuck!” I cursed as I felt my head about to crack.

Anong nangyari?

Minulat ko ang aking mga mata ngunit agad rin itong pinikit nang makaramdam ulit
ako ng kirot. Damn that beer. What the fuck happened last night?

Kinapa ko ang night-stand upang hanapin ang aking cellphone. Nang makapa ko ito,
mabilis ko itong ini-unlock at tinignan ang oras. It’s still nine. I took a deep
breath and dropped my phone on the bed. Wala sa sarili kong isinuklay ang aking
buhok habang nakatitig sa nakakasinag na kurtinang tumatabon sa bintana. I suddenly
gripped my hair near my hair roots while forcing to remember what the fuck happened
last night and why I can’t recall a thing.

Sa huli, napagdesisyunan kong bumangon kahit ayaw ng katawan ko. Walang mangyayari
kung tutunganga ako. As long as I did nothing wrong, I'm fine with that. I still
need to finish my
homeworks and I have a lots of things to memorize. Sa pagpasok ng Enero, isang
madugong examination ang bubungad. And I need to get ready. Dagdag pa ang thesis ko
na wala pa akong nasisimulan. Damn, such a talented student I am.

Bagsak ang mga balikat akong naglakad patungo sa banyo bitbit ang isang tuwalya. My
tummy is yelling for food but I need to take shower first.

Nang makalampas ako sa human sized mirror bago makapasok ng shower area, napuna ko
ang medyo namumulang parte ng pulso ko. Sinabit ko muna sa rack ang tuwalya at
hinawakan ang namamaga kong mga pulso.

“Saan ‘to galing?” I asked to myself while scanning my wrist.

I bit my lip and my mind starts thinking about what happened last night. Kahit
anong halungkat ko sa aking isipan ay hindi ko talaga maalala kung saan ko nakuha
ang namamaga kong pulso. It’s like I was tied whole night. Pero sino namang
magtatali sa’kin?

Napabuntong hininga ako at pumasok na sa loob ng shower area. I turned on the

shower and let the water stream all over my body. Nakatitig lamang ako sa blurry
glass wall ng shower area habang nagbabalik tanaw ang isipan ko sa nakaraan.

My hand balled into fist, anger rushed through me. Wala sa sarili kong hinawakan
ang binti ko na puno ng peklat dati. But now, wala na akong makapa. What I had was
flawless legs and skin. I chuckled nonchalantly. That incident happened seven years
ago. Ngunit galit pa rin ang nararamdaman ko sa’king kapatid.

Kung pinaglaban niya kaya ako noon, magkakaron kaya ako ng lakas ng loob para
maging ganito ako ngayon?

But the disgust on his eyes seven years ago, is still vivid inside my head. How he
looked away to avoid my gaze was something that pierced my heart. It’s painful. But
the most painful was I assumed he would protect me from that bitch.

I blinked, dragging myself out from my reverie and continue my bath. Mabilis lamang
akong natapos at agad na lumabas. Binalot ko ang sarili ko ng tuwalya at
naghalungkat sa closet ng masusuot kong damit. Natigilan naman ang kamay ko nang
mapansin ko ang isang pares ng bikini na niregalo sa akin ni mommy.

I smile wickedly while looking at the bikini. Kinuha ko ito at agad na ibinagsak sa
sahig ang tuwalyang nakapalibot sa katawan ko. Sinuot ko ito at napatingin sa
vanity mirror. I can’t
help but to let out an annoying chuckle. My scars were gone, and I guess now is the
best time to conquer my fear of showing my skin.

I put on a see-through blazer and a dolphin short. Inilugay ko rin ang buhok kong
lampas balikat lang ang haba. I glanced myself in front of the mirror for the last
time before storming out of the room. Nang makababa ako ng hagdan ay sinalubong ako
ng isang kasambahay.

“Magandang umaga po, Senyorita. Nais ka daw pong makausap ni Senyorito Daze,”
nakangiti nitong usal.

I can’t help mysef not to grimace. “Pwedeng mamaya po? Gutom na ako, e.”

“P-pero, Senyorita, pinapapunta na daw po kayo ngayon.” Naglikot ang mga mata nito
na para bang natatakot sa magiging responde ko sa sinabi niya.

I nodded and took a deep breath. “Maghanda nalang kayo ng pagkain.”

Umaliwalas ang mukha nito. “Sige po, Senyorita.”

I nodded and she walk passed me, heading towards the kitchen but I stopped her.
“Nasaan sila mama?” Nilingon ko ito.

“Umalis na po sila kaninang umaga. Ang sabi po, helicopter ni Senyorito Daze ang
gagamitin.”

Muli akong tumango. “Cook me meals.”

“Sige po.”

Nagsimula na akong maglakad pabalik ng pangalawang palapag. His study room is

located on the second floor. Sasakit pa ang paa ko kakaakyat-baba ng hagdanan. Kung
bakit ba kasi walang elevator. Bahagya akong napaismid sa sarili.

Nang makarating ako sa tapat ng pinto ng kanyang study room ay kumatok ako. I
waited for his response before opening the door to enter the room. Tahimik ko rin
itong sinarado at tumingin sa kanya na nakakunot ang noong nakatingin din sa’kin.

“Gusto mo daw akong makausap?” I asked in a monotone.

I saw how he eyed me from head-to-toe, and it made me uncomfortable. Pero kahit
ganu’n, hindi ko maiwasang mapangisi sa aking isipan.
Go on, brother. The body you eyed with disgust before was now different. Tell that
to your bitchy bestfriend.

“Saan ka pupunta?” he asked.

I shrugged. “Maybe I’ll take a swim later. Mamaya ko na gagawin ang homeworks ko.”

Mariin itong nakatitig sa’kin. “Why don’t you take a sit first?”

“Magtatagal po ba ang usapan natin?” Hindi ko maiwasang mairita. I’m hungry and I
feel uncomfortable with him around.

“Sit,” he ordered.

I rolled my eyes at the back of my mind and sat on his visitor’s chair. “Bakit po?”

“What you're wearing is inappropriate, Diana.”

Gusto kong tumawa ng pagak ngunit pinigilan ko ang sarili ko. Instead, I smile
widely. “I heard you stayed in California for five years. This is a normal outfit
in there. Don’t act like a conservative person.”

And there, my bitchy button kicked in and I totally forgot I’m aiming for him to
buy me a condo.

“Diana.” His voice thundered the four sided room. “Do you think you’re in a right
position to talk back to me like that?”

Umiwas ako dito ng tingin. “Sorry.”

Irritating silence fill us, and it was me who decides to broke it. “Anong pag-
uusapan natin?”

“Are you planning to showcase your skin outside?” mahina at malamig nitong tanong.

With that question, anger fills my being. You really know how to provoke my bitch
button, Daze Jaden.

“Yes,” taas-noo kong tugon. “I mean, there’s nothing wrong about that, right? If
you’re worried about my scars, it was long gone. Look...” I stood and shamlessly
showed him my bare legs. “Wala na. It’s not disgusting to look anymore—”

“Diana Vielle,” he called me. And that is when I already know he is now pissed. “Go
back your room and do your homeworks,”

Napatitig ako dito. Tumayo ako na hindi man lang inaalis ang paningin sa kanya.
“Are you gonna be like that?”

“What?” His forehead creased and his brows went in straight line.

“Are you gonna be like this? Manipulate me around? Kuya, can you give me freedom
sometime? Because to be honest, nasasakal ako,” I said.

He leaned on his seat to look at me. “Is talking back to me your habit?”

Napayuko ako. He’s in the power, I’ve got nothing against him. “Sorry. Babalik
nalang po ako sa kwarto.”
Tumalikod na ako at naglakad patungong pinto. I was about to reach the door knob
when he spoke.

“If you want to take a swim, there’s an indoor pool. Just ask them where it is.
Don’t go out.”

--

Tahimik kong pinagmamasdan ng aking repleksiyon ng tubig. Iniisip kung bakit galit
ang mga mata ng kapatid ko kanina habang nakatingin sa’kin. It’s like I did
something wrong without me knowing a shit about it.

Wala sa sarili kong hinawakan ang tattoo kong nasa right part ng collar bone ko,
well, not really in the collarbone. Nasa baba ito ng collarbone ko, malapit sa
aking shoulder blades. It’s just a minimalist tattoo na aakalain mong nunal sa
malayuan. But it is a small black heart. Pinatatak ko since the day I oat to myself
I won’t let anyone degrade me for my
flaws and imperfections.

No one is perfect. If there is, then that person is not a human.

“Ito na ang juice mo, hija,” ani ni manang Bebang, ang asawa ng caretaker dito sa
resthouse ni kuya. And as what she said, anak niya pala ‘yung babaeng naghatid sa
akin sa magiging kwarto ko.

I look up at her and smiled. “Thank you, manang.”

Ngumiti ito. “Napakaganda mo talaga, hija.”

I smiled. “Si manang napaka-flutterer. Pero thank you po.”

“Hay...” She inhaled deeply. “Sana ganyan din kabait si Senyorita Taliah.”

Dahil sa sinabi ni manang, nangunot ang noo ko. “Oh, you mean, Taliah ‘yung
girlfriend ni kuya?”

Ngumiti ito at tumango. “Oo, hija.”

“What about her?” I asked as I took a sip on my juice.

Nasa indoor pool ako kagaya ng tugon ni kuya. After eating my breakfast, I went
directly here and spent my time diving and swimming. Nang mangalay ang mga binti ko
ay saka na ako sumampa sa gilid ng pool at nanghingi ng juice kay manang Bebang.

“Huwag mo sanang sabihin ito kay Senyorito, ah.” She heaved a deep breath. “Pero
napakasama talaga ng ugali ni Senyorita Taliah.”

“Bakit po?” I wiggled my feet on the water.

“Basta,” she said. The word that describes a lot of things. Basta.

Napangiti ako at muling ibinigay sa kanya ang baso nang mapansin kong ubos na ito.
“Salamat sa juice, manang.”

“Walang anuman, hija.” She smiled. “Tawagin mo lang ako o si Bina kung may gusto
kang iutos.”

I nodded. “Sige po.”

Nang makaalis si manang Bebang, agad kong inilublob ang sarili sa tubig. I dive
until I reached the floor of the pool. Agad ko ring ipinalutang ang aking sarili
nang maramdaman kong kinakapos na ako ng hininga.

Humawak ako sa handrail at hinila ang aking sarili paangat mula sa tubig. Droplets
of water cascades down from my hair to my body. Inabot ko naman ang tuwalya at
tinuyo ang aking buhok. I also dried myself and wore the bathrobe just beside the
towel.

Nangunot ang noo ko nang makarinig ako ng nabasag na gamit sa living room at ang
matinis at hindi pamilyar na boses ang nagsisigaw. I curiously made my way towards
the said scene.

“I told you to be careful, didn’t I?! Bakit napakatanga mo?!”

A sophisticated woman was yelling at Bina, manang Bebang’s daughter. Broken glass
were on the floor and I spot a stain on the woman’s dress. Napaangat ang kilay ko.
Sino ba ‘to? Ito ba si Taliah?

Nakita ko namang lumabas si manang Bebang mula sa kusina. “P-pasensiya na po,

Senyorita—”

“At ikaw rin.” Bumaling ito kay manang. “Educate your daughter correctly! Did you
know how much this dress cost?! It cost more than your life!”

Nag-init ang ulo ko sa narinig. Look, I’m a bitch sometimes. But I know when to
show it and I know how to respect elders. This woman doesn’t. Mas lalo lang din
napaangat ang kilay ko. Ano daw ulit? Costs more than a life?

“A life of a human is priceless, Miss I don’t know who you are.” Tikhim ko dahilan
upang lingunin ako nito. “Your dress didn’t even look attractive. Where did that
cheap dress came from?”

“And who are you to stick your nose into someone’s business? Did you even know the
word manners?”

I chuckled. “Of course, I do.” Tumingin ako kay Bina. “Kumuha ka nalang ng dust pan
at walis. Just clean the mess, thank you.”

“Bitch,” I heard the woman said.

Napangiti ako. “To answer your question again, yes, I do know the word manners, and
you didn’t.” I smiled sweetly. “Balik ka nalang po sa kusina, manang, and continue
what you’re doing.”

“Masusunod, Senyorita.” Nginitian ako ni manang.

“Sino ka ba, huh?!” sigaw nito. “How dare you to boss everyone around?!”

I chuckled and walked my way back to the pool when someone grabbed my hair tightly.
Damn it!

“How dare you also to turn your back on me while I’m talking,” mariing wika nito.

Inis kong hinila ang buhok niya ng mas mahigpit at tinanggal ang pagkakahawak niya
sa buhok ko.

“Naiirita ako sa’yo,” kalmadong saad ko ngunit nangangalaiti na ang ngipin ko. I
want to crush her face against the wall.
But my deadly thoughts was interupted when someone spoke.

“The hell are you doing, Diana?!”

Senyorita Anji

Chapter 4
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Chapter 4

“I can explain naman, hubby, e.” She pouted, I grimaced. Hindi bagay.

We’re inside kuya Daze’s study room. And yeah, I am being interrogated because I
was the one who was caught in the act. Nakakainis. Mukhang paniwalang-paniwala pa
naman si kuya sa fiancée niyang bulok.

“Then explain, Taliah.” Malamig at malalim ang boses nito.

I saw how she smirk at me and pouted towards my brother. “I was just talking to the
kasambahay and she suddenly went inside the living room and dragged me with my
hair. It hurts.”

Napaingos ako sa paraan ng kanyang pananalita. So this is the feeling of hearing

lies when you knew the truth. This girl is really getting into my nerves.

“Is that true, Diana?” Kalmado ang boses ni kuya ngunit ang mga mata niya ay
tinitignan ako na may pag-aakusa.

I smirked. “Even if I say no, you’ll still side on your fiancée. So, yeah. Believe
what you wanted to believe. I’m off.”

Pabalda akong tumayo sa aking kinauupuan at naglakad palabas ng study room. I heard
him called me but I didn’t listen. Malakas kong isinara ang pinto at nakasimangot
na naglakad pababa ng hagdan. Sinalubong naman ako ng nag-aalalang tingin ni Bina
nang makababa ako.

“A-ayos lang po ba kayo, Senyorita Vielle?” Her voice we’re so soft and she’s
worried.

Ngumiti ako dito. “I’m fine, Bina. Next time, don’t ever follow that girl’s order.
She’s a pain in the ass.”

“Pasensiya ka na po, Senyorita. Pero kailangan ko po talagang sundin ang utos ni

Senyorita Taliah dahil magiging asawa na po siya ni Senyorito Daze,” nakayukong
paumanhin niya.

I scoffed. “Get me water, please.”

“Masusunod po.”

Lumapit ako sa mahabang couch at binagsak ang aking sarili doon. I bit my lip in
annoyance. Bumangon ako at umupo, inis kong sinipa ang center table ngunit agad
ding napangiwi dahil napalakasan ko ang pagkasipa.

“Andito na po ang juice niyo, Senyorita.” Inilapag ni Bina ang hiningi kong juice
sa mesang nasa harap ko at magalang na nagpaalam.
My head is still in chaos. I’m mad, a’right. I hate the fact that my brother won’t
believe his own sister. That bitch really do brainwashed his head and that makes me
mad. Gustong-gusto kong gilitan ng leeg ang babaeng ‘yun.

Inubos ko ang juice at nagtungo sa kusina. Kita ko namang busy si manang Bebang sa
pagluluto kaya hindi na niya ako napansing naglagay ng baso sa sink. At bago ako
lumabas ng kusina, dumaan muna ako sa fridge at kumuha ng dalawang in-can na beer.
Madali lang namang makakuha dahil nakaseparate ito, making me remember last night.
Ano kayang nangyari?

I shrugged and went out of the kitchen. Pumanhik ako sa hagdanan at pumasok sa
aking silid. Nilagay ko ang dalawang lata sa night-stand at naghubad ng damit. I
throw my blouse on the floor and climb on the bed. Inabot ko ang laptop na katabi
ng dalawang beer at binuksan ito.

I started doing my thesis. Malakas naman ang cignal ng wifi dito sa resthouse ni
kuya kaya okay lang. Sa halip na inisipin ang pagkainis ko sa babaeng ‘yun, igagawa
ko nalang ‘yun ng mga homeworks ko. Wala rin namang patutunguhan ang inis ko kung
sa isip ko lang siya gigilitan ng leeg.

Habang nagtitipa sa laptop, sumisimsim ako sa canned beer na kinuha ko sa fridge

kanina. Mainit siya sa tiyan ngunit matamis sa dila. Ramdam ko rin ang mga
malalapot na pawis ko na hindi ko man lang namalayang gabi na. I’m still busy with
my thesis when somebody knocks on the door.

“Just leave me some food, Bina. Mamaya na ako kakain,” I replied on the knock.

Napatingin ako sa air-condition nang magsimula na akong makaramdam ng init.

Binalewala ko nalang ang nararamdaman ko at nagpatuloy sa ginagawa. Nakasuot na ako
ang nude color bralette na criss-cross and style sa likuran, ngunit hindi noon
nababawasan ang init na nararamdaman ko.

“Susunod— Kuya...” I watched him entered the room and locked the door behind him.

“Let’s talk, Diana,” he murmured.

Wala sa sarili akong napalunok at tumango. I tied my hair into a messy bun and
closed my laptop. Bumaba ako sa kama at hindi na nag-abala pang magdamit dahil sa
sobrang init. It’s just normal naman siguro kung makita niya akong naka-bralette
lang, it’s not a big deal since he’s my brother.

“Get dressed,” he ordered making me roll my eyes.

Malakas ang loob ko dahil sa nakainom ako. “Anong pag-uusapan natin?”

Umupo siya sa pang-isahang sofa habang ako ay dumiretso sa kabila. We’re facing
each other and I saw how his breathing became uneven.

“You shouldn’t have done that to my fiancée, Diana.” Sinamaan ako nito ng tingin.
“You don’t have the right to—”

“Ahh, it’s about her.” I nodded. Ngumiti ako dito at nagkibit-balikat. “It’s not my
fault if she pushed my bitch’s button.”

“You’re always a bitch and brat, Diana.” Mas lalong lumamig ang boses nito.

And I would probably lying if I say I wasn’t hurt by what he just said. Damn, those
words just penetrated to my bone. My brother is a cold man, indeed.
“Am I?” I chuckled. “If I am, then what more than your fiancée? You see, kuya,
hindi mo pa ako masyadong kilala. Bulag ka sa isiping spoiled brat ako kaya ayaw
mong maniwala na wala akong kasalanan. Kung ang pinunta mo lang dito ay ang
pagalitan ako, just please, leave this room.”

“Diana—”

“I’m doing my homework,” I cut him. “That would be an enough reason for you to
leave.

Tumayo na ako at naglakad patungong kama nang makaramdam ako ng biglang init ng
katawan. I felt someone grabbed my elbow making me look at him.

“We’re not done talking,” madiin nitong sambit.

Napahawak ako sa aking ulo at tinulak siya ng malakas. “Get out.”

Fuck, this feeling feels so familiar. Parang naramdaman ko na ito dati..

Lumunok muna ako bago sumampa sa kama. Dumapa ako at nagtalukbong ng kumot. Palihim
kong hinawakan ang aking dibdib, my heart is beating rapidly and my breathing were
uneven.

Nakarinig ako ng pagbukas at pagsara ng pinto na kahit papaano’y nakakalma sa

nararamdaman ko. Tinanggal ko ang kumot at bumaba ng kama. I went near the air-
condition and increased the cold temperature. Ngunit laking pagtataka ko nang
patuloy pa rin ang pagtagaktak ng pawis ko.

Naglakad ako pabalik sa kama at pinagpatuloy ang aking ginagawa. Hindi ko nalang
pinansin ang init na nararamdaman ko at nagsimulang magtipa sa aking thesis. Hindi
ako nagpaapekto...

Not until my brother entered the room with a tray full of food on his hand.

Sinarado niya ang pinto gamit ang kanyang mga paa. Naglakad siya palapit sa kama at
nilapag ang tray na may lamang pagkain. I also saw a chocolate.

“Eat up now,” he said.

Hindi ko nalang siya pinansin at nagpatuloy sa pagtitipa sa’king laptop. “Ilagay mo

nalang po diyan. Kakain ako mamaya.”

“Eat.” He went near the air-condition and lowered the cold temperature.

Napairap ako dito. I hate him and also his fiancée. I hate them both. Their
combination
would brought me nothing but irritation and anger.

I just shrugged and continue typing. Nagulat nalang ako nang may basta-basta nalang
na kumuha sa laptop kong nasa aking kandungan at pabaldang nilapag ito sa night-
stand. Damn, the beers!

Napatingin siya sa nahulog na lata ng alak. “Do you have this habit of stealing my
beers?”

Napalunok ako. I hate him. But my body is anticipating for him to touch me. It’s
weird. The weird heat I’m feeling a while ago came back.
“Leave the room, kuya,” mahinang usal ko at tumayo.

Agad rin akong napahawak sa malapit na pader nang nakaramdam ako ng pagkahilo.
Ramdam ko ang paghawak ni kuya sa bewang ko na ikinaigtad ko.

“You’re drugged again, fuck,” I heard him whispered.

Bumalik ang inis ko sa kanya at tinulak siya. How dare him to hold me after showing
me how disgusted he was with my body seven years ago? This asshole is really
getting into my nerves. Dagdag pa sa inis ko ‘yung fiancée niyang story-maker.
Papasa ‘yun bilang writer, napakagaling mag-imbento ng kwentong walang katotohanan.

I turned my back on him and my shallow hair tie fell. Inis kong tinipon ang buhok
ko sa kaliwang balikat.

I gasp when he grabbed my arms and claimed my lips for an ardent kiss. And the heat
I was trying to ignore a moment ago, ignited like a wild forest fire. Napahawak ako
sa kanyang dibdib nang mas palalimin niya pa ang aming halik.

Damn it! I should pull away! He’s my brother and I hate him! But my body is
betraying me.

His arms snaked on my waist and pulled me closer towards him. I can’t help myself
but to moan when his warm hand cupped my butt-cheeks. I’m starting to lose my
sanity. His kisses were intoxicating. I-I can’t think properly.

“Don’t turn your back at me when I’m talking, Diana,” he murmured and his lips left
mine as it start kissing my neck. “Did you get me?”

Reality strikes me. Mabilis ko siyang tinulak at nagmamadali akong pumasok ng

banyo. I closed the door behind me and locked it. Napatingin naman ako sa salamin
at wala sa sariling napahawak sa aking labi.

I blink several times. Wala sa sarili kong sinabunutan ang aking sarili habang
nakatitig sa salamin. Frustrated akong pumasok ng shower area at binuksan ang
shower. Sumandal ako sa pader at napahawak sa aking labi.

D-did I just kissed him?

--

Pabalik-balik ang lakad ko habang kagat-kagat ang chocolate na dala ni kuya kanina.
I just finished doing my shower and the heat a while ago finally vanished.

Hindi ako mapakali. Thinking about what happened, it’s frustrating. Isa pa, napaka-
awkward din. Lalong-lalo na’t wala sila mama at papa. Now tell me how to face him?

Tumigil ako sa paglalakad at tumingin sa vanity mirror. I’m now wearing a satin
pajama and a satin spaghetti strap. I took a deep breath before walking towards the
door. Napahawak ako sa door knob at mariing napapikit. If I can’t stand the
awkwardness, better ask him to send me back to manila.

Tuluyan na akong lumabas ng kwarto at naglakad patungong pinto ng study room ni

kuya. Humugot muna ako ng malalim na hininga bago kinatok ang pinto, ngunit
nakailang katok na ako ay wala pa ring sumasagot. That’s when I turned the door
knob open and inserted my head insidd to see if he’s around. But there’s none.

Nakasimangot akong isinarado ang pinto at tumingin sa deriksyon ng kanyang kwarto.

Naglakad ako patungo dito at walang sabi-sabing kinatok ang pinto. It’s now or
never. Nakakatlong katok pa ako nang may magsalita sa likod ko.

“What do you want?” sambit ng isang kalmado, ngunit nakakakilabot na tinig.

Dahan-dahan ko itong nilingon at napalunok nang makita kung paano niya ako tingnan
ng mariin. Beads of sweat formed around my forehead I remember the kiss we shared
just a while ago. I gulped. “C-can we talk?”

All I thought is that he’ll just ignore me or head towards his study room to grant
my wish. But none of it happened, instead he proceed to the door and opened it.
Pumasok siya sa loob at buong akala ko ay isasarado niya ang pinto nang lingunin
ako nito na para bang inaantay akong pumasok.

“I thought you want to talk?” he asked grimly.

Napakurap-kurap ako at mabilis na humakbang papasok sa kanyang silid. As soon as I

entered his room, I heard him closed the door while I wander my eyes around. His
manly scent lingered on my nose and somehow, it calms me. Sinundan ko siya ng
tingin hanggang sa makaupo siya sa mahabang sofa.

“What do you wanna talk about?” Kalmado na ang boses nito kumpara kanina nang
pumasok siya sa kwarto ko.

Muli na naman akong napalunok at naglakad patungo sa pang-isahang sofa. The room is
dim, only the lamp near the long sofa was the source of light, and it’s enough for
me to see him watch me as I settle myself on the single-sofa.

“I-I just wanna say sorry,” napayuko ako. “Sorry for kissing you a while ago. L-let
j-just... let’s just forget that it happened.”

There, I finally said it. “Won’t you say sorry for grabbing Taliah’s—”

“I told you it wasn’t me who started it that’s why I won’t say sorry,” I cut him.
Napayuko kaagad ako nang mapagtanto kong bastos ang nagawa ko. “Sorry.”

Cutting someone when they are speaking is rude.

Nanatili lang akong nakayuko at hinihintay ang ano mang sasabihin niya. Napapikit
ako nang tumayo siya. Is he going to slap me?

I gasp when I felt him held my elbow and carefully helped me to stand. Napaangat
ang tingin ko dito at halos maduling nang ilang pulgada nalang ang layo ng aming
mga mukha.

Wala sa sarili akong napahawak sa dibdib niya nang hapitin niya ako sa bewang. I
closed my eyes when he lowered his head to the hallow of my neck and sniff.
“Lilac...”

I held my breath. “W-who’s Lilac?”

Napahigpit ang hawak ko sa damit niya sa bandang dibdib nang tamnan niya ng munting
halik ang leeg ko. “You smelled like Lilac.”

Mariin kong pinikit ang aking mga mata. I feel like my knees are starting to lose
its strength. Siguro ay nararamdaman din ni kuya na unti-unti na akong nawawalan ng
lakas kaya mas humigpit ang kapit niya sa’king bewang.

“I-It’s my showel gel,” I uttered. I tried to let go from his hold. “T-this is
wrong.. Y-you shouldn’t be kissing your sister’s neck—”
I was cut when he suddenly claimed my lips. He pulled me more closer while his
kisses were smooth and calm.

No way, this is not happening!

I was about to struggle when he finally let go of my lips, but not my waist.
“There’s nothing wrong, Diana.”

Napanganga ako sa sinabi niya. “A-anong ibig mong sabihin?”

He shrugged. “There’s nothing wrong with our body’s decision.”

What?! Is he insane?!

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 5
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Chapter 5

Nakatitig lamang ako sa kawalan habang hawak sa kamay ko ang printed IATA codes na
kinakailangan kong memoryahin. I can't think straight, seriously. What happened
last night still hunts me. 'Yung sadya kong pilitin siyang ipabalik ako ng Maynila
ay naudlot sa kagaguhan niya kagabi.

I mean, who would in the right mind will say those things, right? Kapatid niya ako,
ngunit kung makahalik parang hindi. Is this some kind of joke? Like, seriously, I
don't do incest! Kahit makasalanan akong tao, hindi ko lubos maisip na gagawa pa
ako ng isang napakalaking kasalanan. Ugh! Damn it!

Abala ako sa paghihilot ng aking sintido nang mapansin ko si Bina na balisa habang
hawak ang tray na may lamang juice at iba pang pang-meryenda. Kaya dala ng
kuryosidad, umalis ako sa hammock at nilapitan siya.

"What's wrong?" I asked her.

Bumadha sa mukha nito ang pagkagulat. "S-senyorita Vielle! Kayo po pala. B-bakit
po?"

Nangunot ang noo ko nang mapansin kong namumutla siya at nanginginig. "Why are you
trembling? At saan mo 'yan dadalhin?"

"K-kay senyorito Daze p-po." Yumuko ito na para bang nahihiya.

"Pinagalitan ka ba niya?"

"Po?" Her eyes widen. "H-hindi po! M-mali po ang pagkakaintindi niyo,"

Napabuntong hininga ako. I still have soft sides for girls at her age, that's why
I'm doing this against my will. "Give me the tray, I'll hand it to him personally."

Agad siyang napahakbang paatras nang akma kong kukunin mula sa pagkakahawak niya
ang tray. "P-po? P-pero, S-Senyorita-"

Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay. Napayuko naman ito at may pagdadalawang-isip na iniabot

sa akin ang tray. Hilaw ko itong nginitian at naglakad paakyat ng ikalawang
palapag, patungong study room niya.

Nang makarating ako sa harap ng study room nito, kumatok ako. I knocked for over
many times but still no one answered. Baka wala dito? And to make sure about my
conclusion, I held the door knob and turned to open.

I opened the door and roamed my eyes to look for my brother. Ngunit sa tingin ko ay
isang napakalaking pagkakamali ang ginawa ko.

I saw how they stop what they were doing. The girl look at me in horror while my
brother was just staring at me with an stoic face. Mas lalo akong napatanga nang
mapagtanto ko ang posisyon nila.

The girl is leaning towards the table while my brother is behind her, pulling her
hair using his right hand, and they're both naked. Yes, they are naked. From here,
I can see her boobs lying flat on my brother's table. Gulong-gulo ang buhok nito at
nakikita ko ang pawis mula sa kanyang sintido.

I stood still.

Kaya ba namumutla si Bina?

Why are they having sex here?

Dito ba dinadala ni kuya ang mga babaeng sinisiping niya?

"Uhm..." Tumikhim ako at yumuko; red stained my cheeks due to embarassment. "M-
meryenda niyo." Nakakahiya namang magsiping kayo ta's wala kayong lakas.

Nilabanan ko ang panginginig ng aking kamay. This is just a normal scenery for me.
I've seen different point of views from people having sexual intercourse, but in my
brother's
case... it's different. P-parang nakakapanibago.

"Get out and close the door for a moment, Diana," he ordered, I obeyed.

Agad akong humakbang paatras at sinarado ang pinto. I exhaled loudly, I didn't
noticed I was stopping my breath. Well, the scene was breathtaking... and
disgusting. I mean, isn't it inappropriate for couples to have sex in a study room?

Wait.. couples? That girl isn't Taliah the bitch. So who's that? Is my brother
cheating? Oh well, ayaw ko rin naman sa babaeng 'yun.

Natigil ang kung ano-anong iniisip ko nang bumukas ang pinto at bumungad sa akin
ang babaeng nakasuot ng pencil skirt at long-sleeve polo na pinatungan ng itim na
blazer. The logo on her right chest signifies where she worked. She's working for
my brother. A secretary? Head of a department? I can't guess.

She smiled at me. I can sense how embarassed she is at the moment. "P-pasok ka..."

"Uhm, no need." I smiled and hand her the tray. "Just give this to kuya."

As soon as she accepted the tray, agad akong tumalikod at pumasok ng aking silid na
hindi man lang nagpapaalam sa kanya. Hindi ko alam kung bakit. Pero naiinis ako.
Siguro ay sa kalakasan ng apog ni kuya na mangsiping ng babae dito sa rest house
niya habang andito pa ako, porket wala sila mama, e.

"Damn," I whispered to myself when I faced the mirror.

Pulang-pula ang mukha ko. Tangina naman.

Dumapa ako sa kama at tinakluban ang sarili gamit ang kumot. Diniin ko ang aking
mukha sa unan at tumili nang malakas. Moments later, I got up and sat on the bed.
Nilingon ko ang vanity mirror at pekeng ngumiti sa sarili.

Yeah, right. It's not a big deal. You've seen different people doing sex, right? It
should be a normal encounter for you. Pangangaral ko sa sarili.

But no. The scene keeps replaying inside my head like a broken disc! How my brother
pushed and pulled himself towards the woman who was leaning on his table and how
she scream in pleasure... it's something that a pure woman like me won't forget.

Bumaba ako sa kama at nagsuot ng tsinelas. Nilapitan ko ang cabinet at naghalungkat

ng damit na balak kong suotin. I need to breath fresh air. Maybe I'll go out and
breath. Aside sa nakita ko kanina, suffocated din ako sa presensiya ni kuya.

I choose to wore a white sleeveless fitted crop top and a nude color cargo pants.
Pinaresan ko ito ng puting adidas shoes at itinali ko rin ang buhok ko into
ponytail. This outfit gives me confidence and gives off aesthetic vibes. Just my
taste.

Nang matapos na akong magbihis ay muli kong pinasadahan ng tingin ang aking sarili
sa salamin. Then my eyes darted on my butterfly necklace, wala sa sarili akong
napahawak dito. Sumikdo ang sakit sa puso ko nang maalala ko ang taong nagbigay sa
akin nito.

Kiyo Vasquez. The person who only did nothing but to appreciate me and my flaws.
Kamusta na kaya siya? Mabuti kaya ang lagay niya sa States? Does he still think of
me? Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa kwentas. Maybe he don't anymore. I heard he's
getting married right after he'll graduate in his Business Management course, the
reason why he flew to States.

"Babalik ako, Lilac. I promise."

Mapait akong napangiti at kumurap-kurap nang maramdaman kong umiinit ang gilid ng
mga mata ko. Babalik ka pa kaya?

He's a citizen residing in Cebu. We met in college since he was studying in UP and
me as a freshman. Magkasing-edad lang sila ni kuya ngunit mas maagang nagtapos ang
kapatid ko. I smiled suddenly. That jerk. All I thought he was cold, but he's not!
He's as chessy as hell...

I missed him...

Tumikhim ako nang maramdaman kong parang may bumikig sa lalamunan ko. Hindi na ako
aasa pang babalik 'yun. At kung sakaling babalik man siya, baka may pamilya na
siya. And whoever the woman he'll love, she must be very lucky. The almost-perfect-
man in the world I've known is into her. That stings. Unrequited love and unsured
promises sucks.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at ngumiti ng pilit habang nakatitig sa kwentas

bago ko napagdesisyunang lumabas ng silid. May pera naman ako sa bank accounts ko,
meron din akong cash in case of emergency. But I need my brother's permission.

Paano ko siya haharapin? The scenery assaulted my brain cells once again.

Damn, bakit na ako nahihiya kung sila naman ang nahuli ko sa akto? Yeah, right. I
shouldn't feel embarassed about it.
Kaya habang may lakas na loob pa ako para magpaalam, kumatok ako ng pinto.
Nakakalimang katok ako nang pagbuksan ako ng pinto ng babaeng nagbukas din ng pinto
kanina.

"H-hi. Pasok ka." She awkwardly said.

Pilit akong ngumiti dito bago pumasok ng silid. There I saw my brother, sitting on
his swivel chair and reading something like nothing happened a while ago. So I
guess the girl is his secretary?

"What do you want, Diana?" He asked without looking at me.

Tumikhim ako at pinatuwid ang aking likod. "Magpapaalam lang sana ako. Gusto kong
libot sa boracay."

"Who's with you?" tanong nito saka siya nag-angat ng tingin. I saw how his jaw set
when his eyes darted on my clothes. "And why are you only wearing a sport's bra?"

I played my fingers behind me. "This is not a sport's bra, kuya. Wala rin akong
kasama mamasyal. I just want to go out alone."

Nagsalubong ang kilay nito bago tumango. "Okay. Jose will come with you."

"Who's Jose?" takang tanong ko.

"Boss Daze's personal driver," singit ng babae na may pekeng ngiti.

Inis ko itong binalingan. "Did you know interjecting someone's conversation is

rude?"

Kita ko ito napaiwas ng tingin at napayuko. Bitch. I murmured to myself. Lahat ba

ng mga babaeng nakapaligid kay kuya ay mga mahaharot na hindot? Nakakainis.

Someone suddenly knocked on the door. "Senyorito Daze, nandito po si Senyorito

Isaiah."

Tumikhim si Kuya. "Let him in."

Kasunod nito ang pagbukas ng pinto. Muli akong nagpaalam kay kuya at pumeke ng
ngiti bago siya tinalikuran, sakto din namang pumasok ang lalaking sa tingin ko ay
may lahing banyaga. Kaibigan ni Kuya?

Bago pa man ako makalabas ng pinto, rinig ko ang usapan nila kuya.

"I won't take too long," the guy said and laid the brown envelope on my brother's
table. "Read that. I'll get going."

Lumabas na ako ng silid at dumiretso sa hagdanan. Halos maglakad-takbo ako sa tuwa.

Like, who wouldn't? First time pumayag ni kuya na gumala ako, kaya lulubos-lubusin
ko na.

--

Napangiti ako habang naglilibot sa buong mall. It's been a long time since I went
out without hesitations and fear that my brother might caught me.

"Senyorita, ilalagay ko lang po ito sa sasakyan," saad ni mang Jose, bitbit ang
paper bags na may tatak channel, hermes, at iba pang mga pinambili ko.
Nilingon ko ito at nginitian. "Sige po."

Yumuko muna ito bago naglakad paalis, habang ako naman ay nagsimula nang maglakad.
My eyes keep wandering around when I suddenly bumped into someone.

"Sorry."

"Sorry!"

We both said in unision. Napatingin ako dito at napagtanto kong kakilala ko ito
nang magbakasyon kami sa Satorini.

"Vielle?" he said.

My forehead creased, trying to remember him. "Lucifer?"

"You remembered me!" Hindi makapaniwalang sambit nito at pinasadahan ako ng tingin.
"You
look more fabulous and gorgeous!"

Napairap ako at mahinang natawa. "You became a sweet mouthed evil, I see."

He chuckled also. "Grabe ka sa'kin," he smiled. "Are you in a vacay here in Bora?"

"Yep," I said popping the 'p'. "And I know you are, too."

Ngumiti ito. We continue walking and visit some stalls here inside the Rial Mall.
He just made my afternoon. Panandalian kong nakalimutan ang nakita ko kanina dahil
sa mga kagaguhan niya. Like, who wouldn't? He's a talkative and very joyful
individual.

"So you're taking business management instead of culinary arts?" I asked as I took
a sip of my tea.

We're inside a very cute coffee shop stall, talking about what course we took and
why. And his answer interest me.

"Yeah." He nodded. "I am planning to open a restaurant once I'll take over Russo
Real States." He winked.

Tumango ako. "Do italianos love to cook?"

"Not all." He shrugged. "My father loves to eat instead of cooking, so yeah, not
all."

Napangiti ako. Konti lang ang panahon na nakabonding ko si Lucifer dati. Nakakainis
kasi, e. Napakahilig mang-asar.

Akmang magsasalita na sana ako nang humihingos na lumapit sa akin si mang Jose. "S-
senyorita, tumawag po si Senyorito Daze."

Daze. Fear rushed through me making me glance at my wristwatch. Sunod-sunod ang mga
pinakawalan kong mura nang mapagtanto kong alas sais na pala.

"What's happening?" Lucy asks, oblivion of the reason behind my panic.

Tumayo na ako at pilit siyang nginitian. "I-I have to go. Thanks for your time,
Lucy."
"Ow-kay?" medyo patanong nitong sambit.

Nagbesohan muna kami bago ako naglakad-takbong lumabas ng coffee shop. Ramdam ko
ang pagsunod sa akin ni mang Jose at katulad ko, kinakabahan.

"Bilisan niyo po, manong," may pagmamadali kong tugon at ikinabit ang seatbelt.

Nang makapasok si mang Jose sa loob ay agad nitong pinaharurot ang sasakyan. Pipi
naman akong nagdarasal na sana ay walang punishment ang gagawin ni kuya. Sana naman
ay hindi niya ako ipa-grounded, ano? Hindi pa naman nadadala sa suyo 'yun.

My mind is in chaos, thinking about what to reason why I came home late. Well, it's
still six so it's not late. Ngunit madilim na ang kalangitan kaya lagot ako nito.

Masyadong magulo ang isip ko na hindi ko namamalayang nakauwi na pala kami. Muli na
naman akong pinagpawisan ng malamig.

"M-manong, ano daw po sabi ni kuya Daze?" I asked as soon as he parked the car.

Nilingon ako nito. "Sabi niya lang po 'time'. Sobrang kaba ko po, Senyorita. Kanina
pa po kasi kita hinahanap."

I nodded my head before stepping out of the car. Nagmamadali ang mga hakbang ko
papasok ng resthouse. Napansin ko pa si Bina na nagwawalis ng sahig at parang
nagulat nang makita ako.

Akmang papanhik na sana ako sa pangalawang palapag nang may magsalita.

"What time is it, Diana?"

I halt. Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa railings at dahan-dahan itong nilingon. Mas lalo
lang din akong pinagpawisan ng malapot nang makita ko si kuya na prenteng
nakasandal sa hamba ng pinto papasok ng kusina.

"K-kuya..." I breathed.

Nakatitig lang ito ng mariin sa akin at kalauna'y umalis sa kanyang pagkakasandal.

He walked towards my direction and walked passed me.

He stop midway and throw me sideway glance. "Why are you just standing there?"

Napakurap-kurap ako at nagmamadaling sumunod. At habang nakasunod sa kanya, naaamoy

ko na...

Naaamoy ko na ang amoy ng impyerno.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 6
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Chapter 6

Tahimik lamang ako habang nakasunod sa kanya paakyat ng hagdan. Hindi ko maiwasang
kabahan na baka ipa-grounded niya ako. He is the most irritating and sensitive
person I know. Konting kembot lang, ginagawa na niyang big deal. Hindi na siguro
akong magugulat kung sasabihin niyang 'you're grounded'. Oh hell, like I care.
"Walk faster, Diana," he said. Doon ko lang din napansin na nasa hagdanan pa ako
habang siya ay nakatayo na sa hamba ng nakabukas na pintuan ng kanyang kwarto.

Doon kami mag-uusap? Weird.

Hindi ko nalang pinansin ang mga weird kong iniisip. Sana hindi grounded. Okay na
mapagalitan, basta 'wag na ma-grounded.

I took a deep breath as I reached his direction. Doon na siya pumasok and I think
that's a signal for me to enter, too. Kaya wala akong nagawa kundi ang sundan
siyang pumasok ng kanyang kwarto. Dumiretso ako sa couch habang siya naman ang
nagsarado ng pinto.

I busied myself wandering my eyes around, looking for some entertaining things just
to avoid the feeling of awkwardness.

"Why did you came home late?" he asked and settled himself on the other couch
adjacent to where I am.

Napayuko ako. Late? E, alas sais pa lang! "Sorry, kuya. Napahaba lang ang usapan
na'min ni Lucy."

"Who's Lucy?" His voice really turned into a very cold one.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at napilitang ngumiti. "Lucifer Russo po. My friend
when we visit in Satorini."

Hindi ito nagsalita. Sa halip tumayo ito at lumapit sa pwesto ko na siyang

kinaalarma ko. I gasp when his firm hands held my elbow and pulled me to stand.
Automatically, my hand grasp on his shirt to keep my balance.

"K-kuya..."

He held my waist and pulled me close. "I told you not to date guys, Diana."

Napalunok ako at umiwas ng tingin. His stares were penetrating. "W-we're not
dating..."

Napasinghap ako nang maramdaman ko ang mainit na hininga niyang dumadampi sa leeg
ko. "Avoid male spicimen."

Ano? "Including you and dad?"

He chuckled, and that's when he started planting soft kisses on my neck which made
me hold my breath for a moment. "Of course, we're exempted."

I grasp on his shoulders to push him. Ngunit taliwas 'yun sa naisip ko. Napakapit
ako sa kanyang balikat nang umakyat ang halik niya sa likod ng tenga ko. Damn it!

"K-kuya..." I breathed. "Why a-are you doing t-this..."

He held my chin and look at me using those deep brown eyes. "You would freak out if
I tell you."

Nangunot ang noo ko. Ngunit hindi ko nalang pinansin ang sagot niya. "Hindi mo
dapat ako hinahalikan sa leeg at labi, kuya. You have your fiancée. I am your
sister. Just please, stop."
"Are you telling me what to do?" tugon nito.

"Yes," taas noo kong sagot. "I am your sister. Mali ito."

"Hindi ito pagkakamali, Diana."

I look at him like he've grown two heads. "Nasisiraan ka na."

Muli itong natawa ng mahina. He suddenly dipped his head and claimed my lips for a
scorching kiss. My body reacted, my hands tightened the grip of his shoulders as he
starts deepening the kiss.

Pull away! I should pull away! Hell, this is wrong! My subconscious states.

At habang may natitira pang katinuan sa isipan ko, buong lakas ko siyang tinulak at
malakas na sinampal. My hands were trembling. Marahil ay ito pa ang unang
pagkakataon na sinaktan ko siya.

I'm scared. What if sampalin din niya ako? Natatakot pa naman siya magalit.

Slowly, he let out a soft chuckle and look at me with a blank stare. "Satisfied?"

"S-sorry..." Why the hell I'm saying sorry?!

Natutop ko ang aking hininga nang haplusin niya ang pisngi ko. "For?"

Napaiwas ako ng tingin. "I-I don't know."

Napasinghap ako nang hinila niya ang bewang ko. He wrapped his arms around my waist
and embraced me tightly like any moment I would vanish. What's up with him?

He buried his face at the hallow of my neck. And for a moment, I feel his breathing
relaxes. Ramdam ko ang pagkalma niya, ang pagbalik ng normal na hininga niya at
hindi katulad kanina na parang hinahabol. He's relaxed I can say. I can also feel
him tightened his embrace.

"Fuck," I heard him cuss and slowly letting go of my waist.

Hindi ko alam ngunit parang gusto kong magreklamo nang matanggal na ang braso niya
sa bewang ko. Maybe him embracing me calms me, too. Weird.

He looked away and turned his back at me. "Go back to your room and lock your door.
Move."

Kahit lutang sa pangyayari, nagawa ko pa ring sundin ang inuutos niya. I stormed
out his room quickly and ran the distance towards the room where I'm staying in.
Nang makapasok ako ay sinarado ko ang pinto at ini-lock ito kagaya ng sinabi niya.

Sumandal ako sa likod ng pinto at dumaos-dos paupo. Wala sa sarili kong hinawakan
ang labi ko. That's our second kiss. Amoy na amoy ko pa rin ang pabango ni kuya na
dumikit sa akin. Ngunit sa halip na kumalma kagaya ng nagdaan, kumabog ng mabilis
ang puso ko.

I'm not a fool. Hindi ako tanga para hindi mahinuha ang pagtibok ng puso ko. But
why now? I hate him right? Dapat galit ako sa kanya sa ginawa niya sa akin dati.

He just looked away. What's wrong with that? Bakit ba bini-big deal mo ang
nangyari? My subconscious said.
Bakit ko nga ba ginawang big deal ang bagay na 'yun? It's not like he hurt me or
bullied me.

It was your expectation. You expected too much to the point you've hurt yourself. A
voice inside me said.

Napasabunot ako sa sariling buhok habang nakakatitig sa lapag na para bang nandoon
lahat ng sagot sa katanungan ko.

Why did he kissed me?

Why is he acting weird?

Why is my heart beating so fast?

Are my feelings from the past c-coming back?

Gulong-gulo ako. Hindi pwede. Hindi pwedeng magkagusto sa kapatid. That's insanity!
Kung dati-rati ay pwede pa dahil bata pa kami, but now is different. We're already
a grown up man and woman and we are already in our right mind to think what is
wrong and right. And having this kind of affection and weird gestures from him is
definitely wrong!

--

The whole night, I was awake. My clock is ticking three in the morning and my whole
system
just won't let me sleep. Ang utak ko ay kung saan-saan naglalakbay. I'm in chaos.

Gulong-gulo ako. Unang-una, kung bakit nagkaroon ako ng lakas ng loob kaninang
sampalin at kausapin si kuya ng ganun. Pangalawa, kung bakit hinayaan ko siyang
halikan ang labi at leeg ko. At pang-huli, bakit biglang bumilis ang tibok ng puso
ko at bumalik ang paghahanga sa kanya na kinalimutan ko na, maraming taon na ang
nakalipas.

Bumangon ako at sumilip sa bintanang tinatakpan ng makapal na kurtina. Agad akong

nanghinayang nang makita kong walang bituing nagpapaganda ng kalangitan. Muli ko na
naman tinakpan ang bintana at naglakad patungo sa pinto. Kukuha nalang ako ng gatas
na maiinom, baka sakaling makatulog ako.

I walked out of the room and walked in tip-toe downstairs. Ayokong magising sila
manang Bebang at Bina.

Pumasok agad ako sa kusina ngunit muntikan na akong mapatili nang madatnan ko si
kuya na umiinom sa counter. Tulala ito habang hawak ang bote ng Martini sa kanang
kamay.

My hand fisted and I feel myself losing my breath. Sa halip na tumunganga sa hamba
ng pinto, tahimik akong nagtungo sa fridge at kumuha ng pinalamig na gatas. I hate
milks when they are hot. I just love colds.

Kinuha ko ang bote ng gatas at muling sinarado ang fridge. Tinapunan ko ng tingin
si kuya at napansing tulala pa rin itong nakatitig sa mesa ng island counter. I
just shrugged the eratic heartheat of mine and look for glass.

"Why are you still awake?" His voice were soft. Very unlikely a while ago.

Maybe because he's drunk?

Napatingin ako dito. Napasin niya ako? "U-uhm... Nagising lang ako."

He didn't replied. Kumuha nalang din ako ng baso at nagsalin ng gatas. Matapos ay
nilapag ko muna sa sink ang bote at tinunga ang laman ng baso. Ngunit bakit ganun?
Nauuhaw pa rin ako? Tanginang presensiya naman 'yan, Daze. Nakakamatay.

Binaba ko rin sa sink ang baso. Pumihit ako paharap at napasinghap nang bumungad sa
akin ang bulto ni kuya. He's standing in front of me, wearing those cold eyes and
soft facial expression. Napaatras ako nang mag-lean siya at hinarang ang
magkabilang gilid ko sa pamamagitan ng paghawak sa lababo.

I look up at him. "M-may sadya ka?"

I don't know if it's just me or sadness passed through his eyes. And for a moment,
I saw his face showed an emotion. Exhausted. Ngunit sandali lamang 'yon nang agad
niyang burahin ang mga emosyon na nakita ko.

"Why are you so hard to ignore, Diana?" he whispered.

I bend backwards just to make some space for the wind to pass. Dikit na dikit
masyado ang katawan namin at magsisinungaling ako kung sasabihin kong hindi
nagresponde ang katawan ko. Damn it!

"A-anong ibig mong sabihin?" mahinang usal ko. Tangina, pwede bang huminga?!

He let out a chuckle and look at me with those sleepy and cold eyes. "You don't
have to know."

Magsasalita pa sana ako nang bigla niya akong siniil ng halik. I involuntarily held
his shoulders to support myself. I saw him closed his eyes and I felt him bit my
lower lips.

"Ku—hmm..." Nakukulong ang mga sasabihin ko sa mga halik niya.

He suddenly held my waist and pulled me up to sat on the sink making me gasp. He
took it as an opportunity to enter his tongue inside my mouth and explore like he
owns it.

Get back to your senses! I mentally scolded myself.

But if there is one thing in me that would betray me also, then it is my body. Sa
halip na lumayo at sampalin si kuya kagaya ng sinasabi ng utak ko, yumapos ang
braso ko sa kanyang batok at mas hinila siya para sa mas malalim na halik. I felt
him smiled between our kiss.

Napapikit ako nang naging kalmado at senswal ang halik niya hindi kagaya kanina na
parang nanggigigil.

Wala sa sarili kong nakagat ang dila niya nang maramdaman ko ang kamay niyang
humahaplos ng paulit-ulit sa hita ko, malapit sa aking pagkababae. But he didn't
move forward. He just remained caressing the same spot again and again making me
feel giddy for him to touch something that needs the attention of his warm hand.
I'm only wearing a dolphin short giving
him the priviledge to my thighs.

"Hmm," I moaned when he suddenly sucked my tongue and played with it.

Shit, wake up! You're doing something forbidden! This is incest!

Gusto kong kutusan ang sarili ko dahil kahit anong sabihin ng utak ko ay hindi
sinusunod ng katawan ko. I'm anticipating for him to touch me more instead. And
this is motherfuckingly wrong!

Siya mismo ang pumutol ng aming halikan. He rested his forehead on mine and took a
deep breath. Hawak ng kanang kamay niya bewang ko habang sapo naman ng kaliwang
kamay niya ang pisngi kong humahaplos sa hita ko kanina.

I unconsciously licked my lips. "You taste Martini."

I heard him chuckled. Ilang beses ba 'tong natawa nang mahina ngayong araw? "I was
drinking to fall asleep."

"Ahh..." I nodded.

He distance his face and look at me. Muli niyang hinaplos ang pisngi ko. "Tell me
to stop."

Nanguno ang noo ko. "What?"

"Tell me to stop," he repeated.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin at napayuko. "T-this is wrong. We shouldn't act like this."

"Wrong, yeah?" He held my chin for me to look at him. "This is not wrong, Diana."

Nanatili akong tahimik habang nakatitig sa kanya. Muli na naman niyang hinaplos ang
pisngi ko.

"You're too precious." He breathed. "Too precious and too forbidden. A forbidden
fruit."

"K-kuya—"

"You are my forbidden fruit I want to taste, Diana. And the forbidden gem I wanted
to keep."

I stilled when he leaned and kissed my neck. My breathing hitched as I felt him
sucked a skin and bit it. I gripped his shoulders tightly to supress a moan.
Napapikit ako at napakagat ng sariling labi nang maramdaman kong dinidilaan niya
ang parte kung saan niya kinagat.

"An advance birthday gift," he murmured something I can't hear.

Nilayo niya ang mukha niya sa akin at tiningnan ako. He leaned-in and kissed my
forehead. My heart pounds so fast.

Ramdam ko ang paghawak niya sa binti ko at pinaikot ito sa kanyang bewang. His
kisses dropped to my nose and lips.

“Good back to your room and sleep. We’ll talk tomorrow,” he whispered before moving
himself away from me.

Lutang ako sa buong pangyayari. Hawak niya ang bewang ko at inaalalayan ako paakyat
ng hagdanan. Nakalimutan ko na ngang hindi ko pa nababalik ang bote ng gatas sa
fridge kung hindi siya nagsalita.

“You taste milk,” he whispered.

Namula ang pisngi ko at napayuko ako. Malamang uminom ako ng gatas kaya maglalasang
gatas talaga bibig ko.

Nang makarating kami sa harap ng pinto ng kwarto tinutuluyan ko, doon na ako
naglakas-loob na harapin siya.

“K-kuya...” I said. “H-hindi na ‘to mauulit, ‘di ba?”

Tinitigan pa ako nito bago ako sinagot. “We’ll see about that.”

Tangina, sana naman wala na. Nagiging makasalanan na ako, e.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 7
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Chapter 7

Napaungot ako nang makarinig ako ng tatlong sunod-sunod na katok. Inis kong tinapon
ang isang unan sa hindi ko alam na direksiyon, at sinagot ang walang hiyang
nambubulabog ng tulog ko.

"Ano?!" Iritado kong sigaw.

"S-senyorita Vielle, pasensiya na po. Ngunit pinapadali po kayo ni Senyorito sa

hapagkainan. Magtatanghali na po," I heard Bina's voice answered.

The memories three days ago assaulted my stupid head. I gritted my teeth in
embarassement. I should forget about that! "Tell him I'm not in a good shape to
come down. Hatiran mo nalang ako ng pagkain dito, Bina."

After that dawn-incident, I did my best to avoid his way. Minsan na lang ako
lumabas at nililibang ko ang sarili sa paggawa ng thesis at pagmememorya ng mga
dapat kong memoryahin. I did every ways to keep myself busy. Ayoko siyang kausapin
dahil hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin ma-absorb ng utak ko ang ginawa namin nang
mga oras na 'yun. It's like we both lose our minds.

I mean, who the fuck would kiss their siblings as intimate as they could? He was
even caressing my groin which made me feel like I want the soil to eat me alive.
That's embarassing! Embarassing dahil hindi ako nakakaramdam ng pandidiri sa
ginagawa namin. Damn, if we could happen, then we're probably making a sin. That's
incest!

You could probably join FamilyStrokes. I mocked myself.

"Naku, Senyorita! Ako po ang mananagot kay Senyorito Daze kung hindi ko kayo
makakasamang bumaba." I can sense the fear on her voice.

Inis akong bumangon at humarap sa salamin. I combed my hair using my fingers and
walked towards the door. Blanko ang expresiyon kong binuksan ang pinto at lumabas
ng kwarto. I can feel Bina's surprise as she moved aside, looking at me with wide
eyes. Maybe she didn't expect I'd came out sooner.

Wala ako sa mood magbihis kaya tanging two pair nighties silk lang ang suot ko.
Shorts and sleeveless. Hindi rin naman magulo ang buhok ko, wala rin akong laway sa
mukha. Like what I've said, I'm not in a good mood to face him. At sino ba siya
para magpaganda pa ako bago humarap sa kanya?
Nang makarating kami ng dining area, hindi ko maiwasang mag-angat ng kilay nang
makita ko si Taliah na nakaupo sa kanang bahagi ni kuya. I rolled my eyes. Isa rin
'to sa rason kung bakit iniiwasan ko si kuya. At 'yun ay dahil naiinis ako sa
fiancée niya.

How I wish to skin her alive.

Dagdag pa rin sa inis ko ang huling nangyari sa'min ni kuya. He just acted like he
don't have a fucking fiancée!

"Have a seat, babygirl," nakangiting sambit ni Taliah. Ugh, plastic.

Peneke ko rin ang ngiti ko at umupo sa kaliwang bahagi ni kuya at magkaharap kami
ngayon ni Taliah. Pasimple ko itong inirapan at hindi man lang tinapunan ng tingin
si kuya. I reached for the rice and was about to get some chicken leg when someone
spoke.

"You're allergic to chicken leg, Diana," sambit ni kuya.

Hindi ko maiwasang mapairap at akmang aabutin na naman sana ang shirmp nang
tumikhim ito. Iritado ko itong nilingon at nadatnang nakatitig din ito sa akin
habang si Taliah ay nakangisi.

Sarap supalpalin. "So anong kakainin ko? Inaaya niyo ako kumain tapos 'yung mga
pagkain inihanda niyo puro bawal sa'kin?"

Binaba ni kuya ang kanyang hawak na kubyertos at binalingan ako. "You can eat
those," he said. Motioning the damn vegetables.

I chuckled nonchalantly at stood ubruptly. "Thanks for asking me to eat. Nawalan na

ako ng gana."

Kita ko kung paano ngumisi si Taliah bago ako tumalikod at lumabas ng dining area.
Siguro ay nag-eenjoy siyang makita kami ni kuya na nagtatalo. I just heaved a deep
breath and stormed out of the house, maybe a swim will do. The sun is unfriendly
today, hindi naman umuulan ngunit puro clouds lang ang nakikita ko.

Nang makarating ako sa baybayin, hindi na ako nag-aksaya pa ng pagkakataon. I took

off my shorts, leaving the only undergarments I'm wearing. Wala akong suot na bra
kaya hindi na ako nag-abala pang hubarin ang suot kong sleeveless silk.

I immediately dive into the water and swim. I resurfaced above as I felt myself
starting to lose oxygen. Doon ko lang din napagtantong nasa malayo na pala ako mula
sa baybayin. It's also high tide and that makes the ocean deeper and wider.

May nakikita din akong naliligo sa kanang bahagi ng aking pwesto ngunit malayo ang
distansiya namin. Maybe they are having a vacation here on Bora. May malapit din
kasing hotel dito kaya maraming tao.

Muli akong sumisid sa ilalim ng dagat at binuksan ang aking mga mata. Mahapdi.
Ngunit tiniis ko 'yun makahanap lang ako ng magandang shells. My favorite part
whenever we went out for a beach vacay.

Mas sumisid pa ako ng malalim nang makakita ako ng kumikinang na shell. Nang
mapulot ko ito ay agad akong lumangoy pataas para huminga.

Napangiti ako nang makita kung gaano kaganda ang shell na nakita ko. Then my eyes
darted on my brother who is standing on the seashore beside my shorts, looking at
my with eyes full of irritation.

Mas nakakairita siya. Pasimple ko itong inirapan at lumangoy sa mas malalim pa na

parte ng dagat. Ngunit hindi pa man ako nakakalayo, may bigla na lang humigit sa
braso ko. I look at this intruder who grabbed my arms and my eyes widen in
surprise.

T-teka.. nasa dalampasigan pa siya kanina, 'di ba?

"What do you think you're doing, Diana?" he asked, full of authority which made me
roll my eyes.

I jerked myself away from him. "Gusto kong maligo."

Lalangoy na sana ako ulit palayo nang mabilis niyang hinapit ang bewang ko. Damn,
am I that tiny enough para madali niyang hilahin? Iritado ko itong nilingon at
magsasalita na sana nang mapatitig ako sa kanyang mukha.

Droplets of water from his hair were streaming down his cheeks and nose. Hindi ko
maiwasang mapalunok nang makaramdam ako bigla ng init.

Just what the fuck?! Nasa tubig kami so bakit ako maiinitan? Palihim kong
kinakastigo ang sarili ko sa nararamdaman ko nang magsalita siya.

"Are you avoiding me?" he asked in a low and calm voice, way too far from the tone
he used on the dining room a while ago.

Umiwas ako ng tingin. Oo, iniiwasan kita. "Hindi. Bakit naman kita iiwasan?"

Napasinghap ako nang mas diniin niya ako sa kanya. "Are you sure?"

"Yes..." I gulped. "Let me go."

I can feel him loosened his hold from my waist. Agad akong dumistansiya sa kanya at
lumangoy palayo.

Hindi pa man ako nakakalayo sa kanya ay nakaramdam ako na may humawak sa paa ko sa
ilalim ng tubig. Fear rushed through me as I start struggling from that hold.
Ngunit napasinghap ako nang hinila ako nito sa ilalim at wala sa sarili kong
naidilat ang aking mga mata.

I cover my nose to stop myself to breath and tried to swim back to resurface.
Ngunit pinigilan ako ng bisig ni kuya at hinapit ang bewang ko. Nahihirapan na
akong huminga. Pinipilit kong kumawala sa kanyang kapit ngunit mas malakas siya. I
keep motioning the above water to tell him I'm starting to lose breath.

Nakatitig lamang siya sa'kin. I also stare back at him and slowly, letting the
water to enter my nostrils. Ngunit bago pa man ako makahinga, agad na kinabig ni
kuya ang batok ko at siniil ako ng halik. He bit my lower lips hard making me open
my mouth unconsciouly.

And slowly, I feel him putting some air inside my mouth and our bodies starting to
float.

Nang tuluyan na kaming nakaabot sa ibabaw tubig, agad akong bumitaw at naghabol ng
hininga. My hand gripped his shoulders tight as I keep on catching my breath. Wala
sa sarili akong
napasandal sa balikat niya nang makaramdam ako ng panghihina.
"I almost die," I whispered. "I hate you."

He just chuckled. "You don't mean it."

Hindi ako nagsalita. Nagsisimula na namang maglakbay ang isip ko sa kung ano ang
tama, kung ano ang nararamdaman ko, kung bakit ganito, at kung bakit nagkagusto ako
sa kuya ko. This is unacceptable even in different point of views and angle.

"Where's Taliah?" I asked suddenly.

Parang mali na parang tama. Hindi ko na alam. Ang alam ko lang ay masaya ako sa mga
nangyayari. Pero mali ito.

Wake up, Vielle. This is just an infatuation.

"Umuwi na siya." he said.

Umuwi na siya? If things were not like this, I would really think that I am the
mistress. Nakakaurat.

"Why are you acting like this?" mahinang usal ko habang nakasandal pa rin sa
kanyang dibdib. "We kissed. We almost make out. What are we?"

He hummed. "We're siblings."

I laughed nonchalanty while looking at the clear sea water we're at. "Yeah. We're
siblings. And siblings aren't suppose to kiss and do something nasty because that's
incest."

--

We spent the whole day together. Hindi ko alam kung bakit 'yung takot at galit ko
sa kanya dati, ay nawala sa isang araw na magkasama kami.

Buong araw kaming nakatambay sa kwarto niya, nanonood ng tv at nakaupo sa kama.

Spoon cuddle. No one of us talked. We just watched different movies and eating our
snacks. Magaan ang pakiramdam ko.

Bakit parang ang bilis? Parang kahapon lang, takot na takot ako sa presensiya niya,
galit na galit ako sa pag-ignora niya sa'kin dati. Ngunit ngayon, hindi na. Wala
na.

I absentmindedly held my necklace. May hinihintay akong bumalik. He promised me to

comeback, and I'm still holding on to that promise. The first guy I fell in love,
and I hope he'll be my last.

Kiyo...

"Four months," he murmured. "Then you'll graduate."

Tumango ako at tiningala siya. I'm sitting in front of him, between his parted
thighs and my head is resting on his chest. Nakayapos ang braso niya malapit sa
dibdib ko at hawak ko ang kamay niya.

I smile and nodded. "Yeah. Don't forget about your promise."

"Promise?" Nagbaba ito ng tingin sa'kin na may pagtataka. "What promise?"

I rolled my eyes on him and diverted my gaze back to the tv. "The condo, Señorito."
He chuckled and tightened his hug. And somehow, I felt safe and secure. "You can
have my condo."

Tuluyan na akong napaharap dito. "Totoo? 'Yung condo mo sa Batangas? Akin na 'yun?"

He nodded. "Isa lang naman ang condo ko, so, yeah, that one."

Ngumiti ako dito ng matamis. "Thank you, kuya."

Hindi na ako nagulat nang yumuko ito upang gawaran ako ng halik sa labi. Dapat ay
iniwasan ko ang halik na 'yun. But no, I can't. Sa halip ay tinanggap ko ang halik
niya at tinugon ito.

He held my cheeks and was about to deepen the kiss when somebody knocks on his
door. "Senyorito Daze. Tumatawag po si Senyora Danica."

I pulled away from the kiss and my gaze turned to the door. Nakasarado ito kaya ang
kabang naramdaman ko ay agad na nawala. I look up at him and found out he was
looking at me, too.

"Go on." Bumangon ako mula sa pagkakasandal sa kanya.

I heard him groaned before standing up and headed to the door. Humikab naman ako at
humiga sa kama. Nagtalukbong ako ng kumot at pinikit ang aking mga mata. And
slowly, my eyelids drop close and darkness finally eats me.

Nagising nalang ako sa mahinang pag-uga sa aking balikat. I opened my eyes and
found my brother looking at me intently.

"Let's eat," he said.

Bumangon naman ako nag-inat ng braso. Bumaba ako sa kanyang kama at naglakad
patungong pinto, ramdam ko naman ang pagsunod nito.

Napasimangot ako at hinila paangat ang dulo ng mahaba kong pajama, and when I say
mahaba, sobrang haba na halos hindi na sahig ang naaapakan ko kundi ang dulo na ng
pajama ko.

Si kuya ang nag-abot sa'kin nito kanina matapos namin maligo.

"Woah!" My eyes glittered on the foods. "Beef steak!"

Hindi na ako nag-aksaya pa ng panahon at pumwesto na. I saw how kuya shook his head
watching my behavior. I just didn't mind him and started eating. Nang nasa
kalagitnaan na kami ng pagkain nang bigla nalang pumasok si manang Bebang sa kusina
bitbit ang wireless telephone.

"Senyorita, nais ka daw makausap ni Senyora Danica," she said.

Napatingin ako kay kuya nang bigla nitong binitawan ang kanyang kubyertos. He was
clenching his jaw while looking at manang, and I can feel her fear under his deadly
gaze.

Tumikhim ako bago tumayo. "Excuse me."

Agad akong lumapit kay manang Bebang at agad niya namang ibinigay sa akin ang
telepono. I gave her a tight smile before walking out of the dining area.
"Ma?"

"Hey, Elle," malambing na tugon ni mama. "Kamusta ka diyan? Did you give your
brother a hard time?"

Pasimple akong napairap. No, mother. He was hard all the time. Kidding. "I'm not."

"Next week pa kami makakauwi diyan ng papa mo." She informed making me creased my
forehead.

"Christmas will be on three days, are you kidding, ma?" n hiagtataka kong tugon.
Kung sa susunod na linggo pa sila, that would be six days from now. So ano? Kami
lang ni kuya magpapasko?

"We're fixing something really important here, dear." Nahihimigan ko ang saya at
pananabik sa boses niya. "I can't wait for it to happen!"

Mas lalo akong naguguluhan. "Bakit? Anong meron?"

"Remember the business partner we told you that helped us during our crisis?" She
giggled. "Our company will merged with theirs!"

Ugh, does it concern about me? "Really? Then it's good."

"Oh, silly." Natawa ito ng mahina. "That thing will happen when you finish your
study."

Napatuwid ako ng tayo. "What do you mean?"

She cleared her throat. "After your graduation, you'll marry their son, Art
Ledwidge. You'll be getting married soon!"

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 8
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Chapter 8

Mabilis na nagdaan ang mga araw, and tonight’s christmas eve. Binati na kami nila
mama at papa kanina dahil magiging busy sila pagsapit ng gabi sa kanila. Si kuya
naman ay pumasok ng opisina dahil may pipirmahan siyang papeles para sa 13th month
pay ng kanyang mga employees.

Napahugot ako ng malalim na hininga nang mapagtanto kong ako lang mag-isa sa
resthouse ngayon. Nasa palengke si Manang Bebang at Bina samantalang si Manong Jose
ay kasama ni kuya. I groaned to myself when I realized I have nowhere else to go
but to my room, or to the beach. Magdadapit-hapon na rin ngunit wala pa ni-isa sa
kanila ang umuwi.

Tumungo ako sa living room bitbit ang isang box ng
sofa. Kinuha ko ang tatlong throw pillow at ginawa
isa upang daganan ng isang binti ko. I reached for
the television. Komportable akong humiga patagilid
pizza.
pizza mula sa kusina at umupo sa
itong sandalan. Kumuha pa ako ng
the remote control and turned on
sa sofa habang kumakain ng

For the past few days, ganito palagi ang ginagawa ko. Kuya will go to work, manang
Bebang and Bina doing the house chores, and mang Jose will drive my brother on his
way to his company. Habang ako ay nakahilata lang buong araw, gagawa ng thesis at
magmememorize. Kapag gabi naman, uuwi si kuya tapos sa kwarto ko matutulog.

That’s kinda weird. Hindi na rin pumupunta dito si Taliah, hindi rin ako sigurado
kung nagkikita ba sila ni kuya. Pake ko naman?

Pinulot ko ang remote control at naglipat-channel. Bumungad sa akin ang senaryo ng

babaeng nakasuot ng engrandeng wedding gown, habang umiiyak na nakatitig sa altar
kung saan naghihintay ang lalaking pakakasalan niya. The music played was very
soothing for my ear that I can’t help not to focus my attention on the drama.

“I’m sorry for dragging you into this kind of situation we both didn’t agree.” ‘yan
ang binulong ng lalaking sa tingin ko ay groom habang nakalahad ang kamay nito.

The bride just give him a tight smile before accepting his hand. Bigla namang
sumagi sa isipan ko ang usapan namin ni mama ilang araw na ang nakakaraan. The
marriage thing. I was wondering if ever my brother knew about about it.

Art Ledwidge. His name sounds very familiar to my ears. Is it possible na nagkita
na kami? Pero wala akong maalalang Art sa tanang buhay ko. Baka dahil ka-sosyo ito
nila mama sa negosyo.

“You can still back out, Chris.” Napaangat ang tingin ko sa telebisyon. “I don’t
want to commit in a loveless marriage, either.”

The bride smiled sadly. “This is fine, Ian.”

Tuloy-tuloy lamang ang palabas na hindi ko namalayang tumutulo na pala ang luha ko
kung hindi pa ito pumatak sa braso ko. It was a very nice movie, but no happy
ending. The man end up with someone where he finally found himself, while the woman
is still soul searching for she can’t find her happiness in anything. Ang lungkot
ng ending.

But that’s reality. Life is not a bed of roses. Siguro itinakda silang ipagtagpo
para may leksiyon silang matutunan, pero hindi sila itinakdang magtapos, because
fate are playful sometimes.

“Senyorita, okay ka lang po ba? Bakit ka po umiiyak?” Nag-aalalang dinaluhan ako ni

Bina.

Mabilis akong nagpahid ng luha at nag-angat ng tingin. “Okay lang ako, Bina.
Napuwing lang ako.”

Kahit nagtataka ay tumango ito. “Gusto niyo po bang ipagtimpla ko kayo ng maiinom?
Juice po? Kape, o tsa-a?”

“No need.” Nginitian ko ito at tumayo na. “Magluluto na ba kayo para sa noche-buena
mamaya?”

“Oo po, Senyorita,” she said in excitement. “Ito po ang unang pagkakataon na dito
magpapasko si Senyorito at kayo po kaya marami ang ihahanda namin.”

My forehead creased after what she said. “Unang pagkakataon? You mean, he never
spent his christmas here?”

Tumango ito. “Sa dami po ba naman ng resthouse ni Senyorito, kung saan-saan na siya
inaabutan ng pasko.”

I nodded on what she said. She has a point, though. Marami naman talagang lugar
para ipagdiwang ni kuya ang kanyang pasko.

Humikab ako. “Just woke me up when he arrives.”

“Masusunod po, Senyorita.” She smile widely.

Bina is a beautiful lady, I can say. Namana niya kay manang Bebang ang pagiging
singkit niya. She has this pale colored skin and a curly ends of her hair. A pretty
girl indeed.

Naglakad na ako patungong hagdanan at pumanhik patungo sa kwartong inuukupa ko.

Nang makapasok ako ay agad kong binagsak ang aking sarili sa kama. I close my eyes
and the scenarios of me and my brother came into the view.

Naidilat ko ang aking mga mata at tumitig sa purong pink na kisame.

Tama pa ba ‘to ginagawa namin? I admit I’m a very clingy person lalong-lalo na kay
papa dahil papa’s girl ako, pero parang mas clingy pa sa’kin si kuya. He would get
mad if I don’t hug him to sleep or play with his hair or cuddle with him.

Bumangon ako at inabot ang laptop kong nasa nightstand. Agad ko naman itong nilapag
sa aking kandungan at nagtipa ng tanong na gustong-gusto kong masagot.

Do siblings cuddle like lovers?

I know it’s kinda weird, but I can’t help it. Pakiramdam ko kasi hindi na ito
normal. Kaya sa halip na magmukhang tanga kakaisip na normal lang ang mga
nangyayari, mabuting mag-research tungkol dito.

Mas lalo pa akong nanlumo sa mga lumabas na resulta ng google. Some of the websites
shared their experiences with their siblings and how closed they are.

Siblings who are kissing is just normal in other country?!

Seryoso ba ‘to? Kaya ba parang normal lang kay kuya? He spent years in abroad, so I
guess this is not some kind of level-up intimacy.

Binalik ko sa night-stand ang laptop at binuksan ang drawer, kinuha ko ang isang
pink na tuwalya. Bumaba na ako ng kama at naglakad patungog banyo.

Maybe a shower will do to stop this overthinking.

Mabilis lamang akong natapos magshower. Lumabas kaagad ako ng banyo at nagbihis at
nanood ng tv.

It’s ten when my door opened and kuya went in. Nakasuot pa rin ito ng business
attire niya at magulo ang kanyang buhok. Naglakad ito palapit sa akin at yumuko
upang halikan ang noo ko.

“Manang said you didn’t take your snack,” he murmured.

Nakatitig lamang ako dito. He took off his suit and tie, leaving his white polo
alone. Binuksan din niya ang tatlong butones ng kanyang polo at nilislis ang
manggas nito hanggang siko.

Umusog ako sa kasi alam ko uupo siya. And I was right. Umupo siya sa tabi ko at
niyakap ako. This is his daily routine since the day we almost make out. Hindi ko
rin naman siya maiwasan dahil ito ang sinasabi ng katawan at puso ko. Marupok.
“Are you okay?” tanong nito nang mapansin ang pananahimik ko.

I blinked several times to drag myself from reverie. “Yes.”

Tinitigan ako nito. “Lie.”

Napaiwas ako ng tingin at bumuntong hininga. I shifted my gaze back to what I was
watching before he arrives. “I was just wondering what’s happening these fast few
days.”

Bigla itong tumahimik. I know he’s already aware of what I meant to say. Kahit sino
naman ay magkakaroon ng malalim na pag-iisip tungkol sa bagay na ito.

This behaviour of his is just normal for him, but I must admit that I’m putting
some expectations to whatever he does. What can I do? This is what my heart says
so.

Hanggang kailan ko papakinggan ang maling sinasabi ng puso ko?

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at pinikit ang aking mga mata. I felt him pulled
me close and let my head rest on his chest while his hand is holding my waist
possessively.

They said, if you’re holding a man’s hand and your heartbeat becomes erratic, he’s
not the one for you. But if you hold a man’s hand and you feel safe and secure, you
need to hold that hand tight because he’s the one for you.

Would it be wrong if I say I was feeling the latter as my brother pulled me into a
very tight and warm embrace?

I can’t deny the feeling of being safe and secure that I couldn’t imagine I’ll feel
only in his arms.

Humiwalay ako ng yakap sa kanya.

“Tutulong ako kay manang Bebang maghanda ng noche buena,” was all I said before
storming out of the room without his reply.

--

“Nag-abala ka pa pong tumulong, Senyorita Vielle,” Bina said while we’re both
serving the cooked foods for midnight.

I just give her a tight smile before carefully laying the food I was holding along
with the others. Napabuntong hininga ako at napatingin sa wall clock, it’s already
eleven-thirty. Thirty more minutes, christmas will arrive, pero hanggang ngayon ay
hindi pa rin bumababa si kuya. I wonder if he’s sleeping.

“Magbihis ka na, Senyorita Vielle. Naku! Nadumihan pa naman ang damit mo,” sambit
ni Bina.

I just smile at her. “Sige, tatawagin ko nalang din si kuya.”

“Sige po, Senyorita. Magbibihis na rin po ako.” Ngumiti ito ng matamis.

Tumango ako at naglakad na papanhik sa pangalawang palapag. ‘Yung kaba ko kanina sa

pag-aakalang nandoon pa si kuya sa kwarto ay nawala na parang bula nang wala akong
madatnan sa kwarto.
I took another deep breath before proceeding to the closet. Wala naman akong
masyadong dalang damit dito bukod sa mga bikini na useless naman dahil ayaw akong
payagan ni kuya maligo sa dagat. Hindi ko rin alam kung bakit, dapat daw sa indoor
pool lang ako maliligo. Nakakaurat.

I choose to wear the deep v maroon dress. I like to wear this though, backless din
kasi kaya hindi ako naiinitan. The length is 3-inch above my knee.

Sinuot ko na ito at pinaresan ng isang nude color sandals. Nilugay ko ang aking
buhok at naglagay din ako ng kaunting lip tint. I glance myself on the human sized
mirror at napangiti. I’m off to go.

Lumabas na ako ng pinto at dumiretso sa kwarto ni kuya. I knocked three times and I
heard him answered.

“Susunod ako,” sagot nito.

Hindi na ako nagsalita pa at bumaba nalang. Naabutan ko naman si Bina na busy sa

pagseselfie sa cellphone niyang maliit. I don’t know what kind of phone that is,
but I don’t like it.

Umakyat ako pabalik sa kwartong inuukupa ko at dumiretso sa drawer sa ilalim ng

night stand. Doon ko nahanap ang phone na niregalo ni papa sa’kin bago pa kami
makarating ng Bora. It’s his christmas for me, but I don’t need this.

Excited akong bumaba habang dala ang phone na ireregalo ko kay Bina. She was a very
thoughtful teenager. I think she’s still on her eighteen? Just my assumptions.

“Senyorita Vielle!” Nakangiting kumaway si Bina habang pababa ako ng hagdan.

Dahil sa pagtawag ni Bina, naglingunan naman ang iba, and that includes manang
Bebang, mang Jose at si kuya na nakababa na pala.

“Bina,” I acknowledge her.

“Ang ganda niyo po, Senyorita. Magkapatid talaga kayo ni Senyorito na gwapo din.”
She smiled brightly.

Magkapatid. Aww— that stings.

“I have something for you.” I showed her the box. “Merry Christmas, Bina.”

Kita ko kung paano manlaki ang mga mata niya. “P-po? Masyado pong mahal ‘yan,
Senyorita.”

“Just take it.” Kinuha ko ang kamay niya at nilagay sa kanyang palad ang box ng
phone. It wasn’t wrapped with gift wrappers because this gift was unexpected.

Ramdam ko ang mainit na titig ng kung sino man. Nilingon ko ito at napagtantong si
kuya ito. He smiled before talking back to mang Jose. Bumaling din ako kay Bina na
tulalang nakatitig sa phone na bigay ko.

“It’s my christmas gift for you,” I said. “Ingatan mo ‘yan.”

Nag-angat ito ng tingin sa’kin. “S-senyorita, masyado na pong malaking halaga—”

I cut her by tapping her back. “Consider it as my gratitude for being a kind
individual towards me. Don’t worry about the price, it’s just nothing.”
Bahagya akong nagulat nang yakapin ako nito. “Maraming salamat po, Senyorita!”

Nang marinig ko ito ay napangiti ako. I answered her hug and slightly tapped her
back. Kumalas ito sa yakapan at pinahiran ang kanyang mata.

“Anong nangyayari?” Nag-aalalang lumapit si manang Bebang sa anak niya. “Ano ‘yang
hawak mo?”

Ngumiti si Bina sa ina. “Binigyan po ako ni Senyorita Vielle ng regalo.”

I saw manang Bebang eyeing the box of phone. “Iyan ba ‘yung cellphone na sobrang
mahal?”

Ngumiti ako. “Merry christmas, manang.”

“Naku—”

“It’s twelve,” Kuya cut manang’s words. “Merry Christmas.”

Napatingin din ako sa pambisig kong relo at napagtantong alas dose na nga. Muli
akong nag-angat ng tingin kay kuya at manang Bebang. “Merry Christmas!”

Kusang nag-ngitian sila. I saw them stilled to saw my brother smiled as he greeted
them. Nakarinig naman kami ng mga paputok sa labas kaya mabilis na tumakbo si Bina
sa labas. Natawa naman kami ni manang Bebang sa inasta niya. Nag-aya silang kumain
kaya nagsimula na rin kaming kumain, pinapasok naman namin si Bina dahil parang
ayaw na niyang pumasok kakatingin sa fireworks.

“Maraming salamat, Senyorita at Senyorito, ngayon lang kami nakapagpasko na kasama

kayo.”

Nginitian lang namin siya ni kuya. The night was fun kahit lima lang kami. Matapos
na’ming kumain ay nagsindi kami ng fireworks sa labas at ng iba pang paputok. Medyo
kinabahan pa ako habang nagsisindi si kuya at mang Jose. Ngunit agad ding napawi
nang magliparan na sa langit ang mga nag-gagandang kulay ng fireworks. Mas
nakadagdag pa ang pagreflect nito sa dagat.

While watching the colorful sky, someone held my waist and pulled me closer. His
scent filled my nostrils.

“Merry Christmas, Diana,” he murmured.

Nilingon ko ito at nginitian. “Merry Christmas, kuya.”

I heard him groaned. “Daze.” He breathed. “Call me Daze.”

Huminga ako ng malalim. It was around one in the morning when I felt the urge to
sleep. Busy din si kuya sa pakikipag-inuman kay mang Jose kaya nag-paalam na ako
kay manang na matutulog na ako.

Pumasok ako ng resthouse at dumiretso sa pangalawang palapag. Medyo sumakit ang

likod at binti ko kakatayo kanina sa labas.

I took off my sandals and went near the bed. I held the strap of my dress and was
about to take it off when a strong and firm arms wrapped around my waist. I sucked
my breath as I felt his breathing fanning my nape.

“K-kuya...” Binitawan ko ang strap at nilingon siya.

But I guess it was a wrong move. Ilang dangkal nalang ang layo ng mukha namin. My
body suddenly reacted when his finger traced my spine. Backless ang damit ko kung
kayat ramdam ko ang nakakakiliting dala ng daliri niya sa likod ko.

“Did I forget to tell you you look ravishing on your dress?” he whispered.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin. “I don’t know.”

He inhaled deeply. He smells like beer. “Hmm?”

Napakurap-kurap ako. “A-anyways, where’s my gift?”

He chuckled. “You want your gift now?”

I bit my lips and his gaze shifted on it. “Where?”

Hindi ito nagsalita. Sa halip, walang imik ako nitong siniil ng halik at tinulak
pahiga sa kama at dinaganan.

“Wish granted.” He bent towards me and whispered, “Merry Christmas, Diana.”

He did something which makes me moan out of my control. 

Damn, this man knows my weakness. I’m doomed.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 9
6.84K
279
Chapter 9

"Fuck, Daze!" I yelp when his warm hand palmed my clothed mound.

He chuckled. "That's it, moan my name."

Wala sa sarili akong napakapit sa braso niyang nakatukod sa magkabilang gilid ko.
My body bent backwards and my legs parted out of control to give his hand a full
access on my center part.

He lowered his head in my neck, planting soft kisses on it. Tumikhim ako upang
pigilan ang ungol na kakawala sa bibig ko. "T-this is wrong..."

Natigilan ito. He look at me with his eyes partly hodded. "This is the only
christmas gift I want to give."

Inalis niya ang kamay niyang hawak ako at dinala ito sa bewang ko. His lips touched
mine and partly bit my lower lip.

"Y-you're drunk," I whispered.

He stopped kissing my neck and I thought he would listen to me. Napasinghap ako
nang kasabay ng pagbangon niya ay ang paghila niya sa dalawang binti ko hanggang sa
ramdam kong nasa dulong bahagi ng kama ang pwetan ko.

"K-"

He cut me by pressing his forefinger on my lips. "Hush..."

Muli itong tumayo at walang atubiling hinubad ang kanyang pang-itaas na damit. I
almost sucked my breath as my sinful eyes dropped on his stomach. Wala sa sarili
akong napalunok at nag-iwas ng tingin. I've seen many bodies, hindi ko lang alam
bakit ang lakas ng appeal ni kuya. Putangina naman. Bakit pa kasi may pa-abs pa.

I was about to get up when he immediately pushed me back to the bed and towered
above me. He held my chin and captured my lips, claiming for a scorching kiss.

"Tongue," he murmured, temporarily breaking the kiss.

Nagtataka ko itong tinignan. "What?"

He chuckled and dipped his head to kiss me once again. I groaned when he bite my
bottom lip and my lips parted out of my control. He took it as an advantage to
delve his tongue inside my mouth and wandered as if he owned it. Tumigil lang ito
nang masagap niya ang dila ko.

"Hmm..." a soft moan escape from my lips as he sucked my tongue and slighty battled
with it.

Wala sa sarili akong napahawak sa braso niyang nakatukod sa magkabilang gilid ko

nang bumaba ang labi niya sa neckline ng suot kong dress. His tongue expertly
traced my neck, down to my tummy where the deep-v neckline of my dress ended.

Bahagya akong napaigtad nang lumapat ang mainit niyang palad sa hita ko, malapit sa
kaselanan ko. Muli namang umangat ang labi ni kuya sa labi ko kasabay ng pag-angat
ng kamay niya sa mismong kaselanan ko. I gasped and unconsciouly gripped the pink
sheets beneath me.

"K-kuya..." I tried to spoke between our kiss.

This is wrong. This is not normal anymore. I know, but why the heck is my body
responding to his touch? Such a traitor body I had.

My parted legs are giving him the priviledge to touch me more. Kusa namang umaangat
ang katawan ko sa bawat galaw ng daliring niyang makasalanan.

"Would you let me..." he whispered near my ear. "...taste you?"

The word taste itself made my throat dry. Gulong-gulo ako. Alam kong lasing si kuya
kaya
ginagawa niya ang lahat ng ito, pero ang hindi ko maintindihan ay kung bakit ganito
ang reaksiyon ng katawan ko pagdating sa kanya. The excitement... wasn't normal.

"Holy- ohh..." I murmured some cursed words when he suddenly inserted his hand on
my underwear and cupped my sex.

What the hell, bakit hindi ko napansin ang kamay niya?

Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa kanyang braso nang magsimulang gumalaw ang daliri niya.
His taut fingers were tracing my clit and it sends tingling sensation all over my
body.

He claimed my lips for an ardent kiss. My hips suddenly lifted and my eyes got
misty when he suddenly inserted a digit inside of me. His tongue entered my mouth
and fought with mine. My arms encircled around his neck and pulled him more closer.

"Fuck, I want you," he cursed and bit my lower lip like he've been yearning to do
this for too long. "Just tell me if you want me to stop, Diana."
Sa sinabi niya, parang nagkaroon ng sariling isip ang binti ko. My legs parted more
and my hips move. His finger start moving in and out of me. Bumaba din ang labi
niya sa dibdib ko at ngayon ko lang din napansin na nakababa na pala ang strap ng
dress ko, nakalislis na rin ito paangat sa tiyan ko.

"Daze!"

He inserted another digit and his thumb played with my clitorial hood. Napapaangat
ang balakang ko kasabay ng paggalaw ng daliri niya.

Using my right hand, I tried to cover my mouth to supress my moans; afraid they
might hear me- us. Unti-unti namang bumaba ang labi ni kuya sa puson ko hanggang sa
dumapo ito sa mismong noo ng pag-aari ko.

I sucked my breath. He temporarily withdraw his fingers to remove my dress and

inserted it back without any warning.

"K-kuya Daze..." Napahawak ako sa braso niya at napaangat ng aking katawan. "I-I
need-"

He cut me by capturing my lips. "Release it."

Mas lalo niyang binilisan ang galaw ng kanyang daliri. I can't help my self not to
moan and my body bend backwards because of the anticipation. I held on the sheets
tightly. Pabaling-baling ang ulo ko at halos hindi ko na alam ang gagawin.

All my body wanted is to release this building sensation inside me.

"Holy sweet shit!"

I held on the bed sheets tightly, my hips lifted and a long moan escape from my
mouth as I release the sensation. My eyes rolled heavenwards and my body dropped on
the bed.

I felt him withdraw his fingers. Ramdam ko ang pagbigat ng takulap ng mga mata ko,
ngunit pinilit kong idilat ang aking mata para tignan kung ano ang ginagawa niya.

Wala sa sarili akong napalunok habang nakatitig sa kanya. Nanatiling nakahiwalay

ang binti ko habang nasa gitna siya at kasalukuyang dinidilaan ang kanyang daliri.

"Stop it." My voice hoarsed. "That's gross."

He lick his fingers once again before shaking his head. "No. You taste damn
delicious, I could lick you forever."

I felt my cheeks heated. "Daze!"

He chuckled and his stuck his tongue out to lick my séx making me gasp. He groaned.
"Fucking delicious..."

Akala ko ay magpapatuloy ito. But he stand up while licking his lower lip. "But you
that's it for now."

Gusto kong magsalita. Gusto kong kastiguhin siya sa pagkakamaling ginawa naming
dalawa ngunit ramdam kong para bang may nakabara sa lalamunan ako na hindi ako
makapagsalita.

He lifted me and carried me in a bridal style, lying me down carefully and

comfortably on the bed. He then leaned in and his warm hand cupped my mound making
me gasp with my eyes half hooded.

"I want to taste you again, Diana, but now is not the time." His fingers traced my
navel, up to my breast. His played with my little beads and that made me hummed.
"Just always remember that I already owned this body. I owned you."

--

I woke up with a heavy feeling like I've done something really bad yesterday. Hindi
na rin ako nagtaka nang bumangon akong may damit na akong suot.

Bumaba ako ng kama at tumingin sa night stand kung nasaan ang lamp at ang alarm
clock. It's ticking ten o'clock in the morning, reason why I feel so hungry.

I walked towards the shower with a towel on my shoulder. Naghubad ako bago pumasok
sa shower area. I turned to open the shower and let the cold water stream down my
body. My eyes darted on the full length mirror opposite to the shower area's door.

Memories from last night flashed inside my head like a broken disc. I wanted to
feel disgust remembering how his fingers expertedly move inside of his own sister's
vagina.

"Just always remember that I already owned this body. I owned you."

I groaned and grabbed my hair tightly and telling- more likely convincing myself to
feel disgust, but no... I started to feel the heat instead.

I blinked several times before I continue to bath. Minadali kong tapusin ang
pagligo at nagbihis pagkatapos. I blow dried my hair and glance myself in front of
the mirror for the last time before storming out of the room.

Bumaba ako ng pangalawang palapag at tumungo sa kusina. Naabutan ko namang

nakatalikod sa akin si kuya at may suot na apron. My forehead creased on I am
seeing. Naglibot ako ng paningin at bahagyang nagtaka nang wala si manang Bebang at
Bina.

"You're awake," anito nang makalingon sa pwesto ko.

I cleared my throat. "Nasaan sila manang?"

He didn't answered me, instead he turned off the stove and took off his apron.
Naglakad ito patungo sa akin at hindi na ako naka-angal nang hawakan nito ang baba
ko at inangat para matignan siya diretso sa mata.

My eyes closed when he suddenly leaned in and claimed my lips. Bahagya pa nitong
kinagat ang ibabang labi ko bago siya tumayo ng tuwid.

"Are you hungry?" he asked. "Umupo ka na."

Gusto ko sanang pag-usapan ang nangyari sa amin kagabi. I want to clarify

everything. Everything that happened last night was a mistake, kahit anong pilit
tignan sa ibang anggulo, pagkakamali 'yun.

Tahimik kong pinagmamasdan si kuya na naghahain ng pagkain. His expression remained

blank, but the aura around him and the atmosphere at the moment is much lighter
than the other days. Hindi nakakatakot. Hindi katulad noon na mabibilaukan ka sa
sobrang bigat ng presensiya niya.
"You want me to make you milk?" he asked in a very soft and sincere voice.

Nakakapanibago.

Tumikhim ako. "S-sige."

He give me a tight smile and I was slightly taken aback. Hindi pa rin ako sanay na
ngumingiti siya kaya nakakapanibago. Lahat ng kilos niya ay nakakapanibago.

"Nasaan sila manang Bebang?" I asked, breaking the irritating silence between us.

Hinarap ako nito habang bitbit ang basong may lamang gatas. "They went out to visit
their home. Uuwi rin sila mamayang hapon."

I nodded my head. So, it means we're the only ones who's left inside this huge
resthouse.

Inilapag ni kuya ang baso ng gatas sa mesa at umupo sa kaharap kong upuan. Ngayon
ko lang din napuna ang pagkaing nakahain sa mesa.

My mouth watered at the sight of sinigang. May iba ring nakahain kagaya ng bacon,
hotdog, and such. Pero kusang nagpi-filter ang mga mata ko sa sinigang. My
favorite!

"Why do you feel so excited?" he asked, putting some rice on my plate.

Ngumiti ako, tila na nakakalimutan na ang nangyari kagabi. "You cooked my favorite
dish?"

He nodded. "I remembered mama cooking sinigang and she said it was your favorite."

My mouth formed 'o' and nodded. "I see. Ikaw ba, anong paborito mong kainin?"

Kinuha ko ang kutsara at inabot ang sinigang. I dipped my spoon on the bowl. Agad
ko ring sinubo ang kutsara at napangiti. Taste better that mama's sinigang.

"Paboritong kainin?"

Tumango ako. "Anong paborito mong kainin?"

"The one I ate last night," he said in a very low and calm voice, but his eyes were
looking at me and observing my reaction.

Buti nalang nalunok ko na ang sabaw. Umiwas ako ng tingin."I-I mean desserts or-"

Naputol ang pagsasalita ko nang mag-ring ang phone ni kuya. Hinugot niya ito sa
suot niyang khaki short at tinignan ang caller. He lifted his gaze on me before he
stood and went out of the dining area. I was taken aback with his sudden reaction.

Was it Taliah calling him?

A sudden pang of pain invaded my chest.

I guess it was.

--

Humugot ako ng hininga at muling nagbaba ng tingin sa laptop. Hindi ako maka-focus
sa paggawa ng thesis, kaya naisipan ko lang na maggitara. Maybe this guitar was
owned by my brother.

I glance at my wristwatch and found out it was three in the afternoon. After the
call he took this morning, he never came back and just leave without goodbyes. And
I would be lying if I say it didn't hurt me. It did, damn it!

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. I started strumming on the guitar and hummed.
Nakakamiss din palang mag-gitara. I quitted playing instruments since the day I
entered college life, and it was 4 years ago.

'Nobody sees, nobody knows

We are a secret, can't be exposed
That's how it is, that's how it goes
Far from the others, close to each other.'

Natigilan ako. What the actual fuck? It's not like me and my brother's intimacy is
a secret, right?

Seriously, what you both did shall remain a secret. My subconscious states.

Halos mapatalon ako sa gulat nang may tumawag sa phone ko. Kunot-noo ko itong
pinulot at tinignan ang caller. It was unknown kaya hindi ko nalang pinansin. I
continue strumming, ngunit sadyang makulit ang tumatawag kaya napilitan akong
sagutin ito.

"Vielle speaking, who's this?" I said in a monotone.

"Come down here," three words said by a very familiar person.

Tumikhim ako. "I'm doing my thesis."

"Just drop whatever you are doing and come down. Move." With that, he turned off
the call.

Iritado kong tinapon ang cellphone sa kama na lumundag naman dahil sa lakas ng
pagkakatapon. Inalis ko sa aking kandungan ang gitara at nilapag ito sa kama.
Hinanap ko ang pares ng hello kitty slippers ko bago ako bumaba ng kama.

I tied my hair into a messy bun. Inayos ko rin ang gusot kong oversized shirt at
bahagya kong hinila ang shorts ko. I look like I'm not wearing any shorts, the
oversized shirt covered it.

Naglakad na ako palabas ng kwarto at pababa ng hagdan. Habang pababa ako, namataan
ko si kuya na busy sa pagpipindot sa kanyang telepono habang nakaupong de-kwatro sa
couch. Hindi pa rin nakauwi sila manang Bebang kaya tahimik pa ang resthouse.

Nang tuluyan na akong makalapit sa kanya, tumikhim ako. "What now?"

Nag-angat ito ng tingin sa akin. His frowning expression suddenly brightens and he
smiled.
Tumayo ito at hinapit ang bewang ko.

"I've got something for you," he said.

Tinanggal nito ang braso sa bewang ko at may hinugot na box mula sa bulsa ng
kanyang pantalon. He faced me again and showed me the box. "Merry Christmas..."

Ang inis na naramdaman ko kanina ay nawala nang mabuksan ko ang maliit na box na
inabot niya. I almost sucked my breath watching the simple crystal necklace as it
was reflected by the lights.

"T-this is-"

"I personally ordered this from Lyla Jewelry," he said as if the jewelry store he
mentioned is just some another cheap store.

Damn, this is Lyla's! The cheapest jewelry from that store is worth 5.6 million!
That is hilarious! Paano pa kaya ang kwentas na 'to?

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito. "P-para sa'kin 'to?"

He smiled and nodded. Kinuha niya sa akin ang kwentas at umikot sa likod ko. He
shoved some strands of my hair and a cold metal touches my neck. My heart leap in
so much joy.

"Perfect," he whispered near my ear and held my shoulders for me to face him. He
cupped my cheeks. "Take good care of it."

Tumango ako at hinawakan ang pendant. "I will."

He pulled me into a tight hug and kissed my hair, ngunit natigilan kaming pareho
nang makarinig kami ng isang napakapamilyar na boses.

"Our children is getting along." Napalingon kami dito. It was Papa. "Hello, kids!"

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 10
7.31K
304
49
Chapter 10

“Kamusta kayo dito? Sorry we weren’t able to greet you a merry christmas when the
clock ticks twelve. Hindi kasi magkapareho ang oras ng Pinas at doon sa Malaysia,”
mama explained.

Nasa sala kaming lahat. My brother and papa were sitting on the each single sofa,
while me and mama were in the long couch. Tahimik lamang kami ni kuya, ramdam ko
ang minsang pagsulyap niya sa’kin na hindi ko nalang tinutugon ng tingin.

“Anyways, I’ve bought something for our baby girl,” magiliw na sambit ni mama na
ikinaungot ko.

“I’m not a baby anymore,” I murmured and lifted my gaze on her.

Mama chuckled. “Sure you’re not. You’re getting married after four months and that
makes you a grown up woman.”

“Being a grown up woman does not required to get married, ma," biglang sabat ng
isang malamig na tinig. “Masyado pang maaga para ipakasal si Diana.”

“What’s wrong with marrying your sister off? She’s already twenty-two, and I want
her to have a stable future with someone we know who’s capable of giving her a good
life.” Bumaling sa akin si mama na may ngiti. “Art likes you a lot that he even
send these gifts to you.”

Napatingin ako sa maraming shopping bags na nasa centre table. “B-bakit—”

“We can give her a good life, ma.” Lahat kami ay nagulat nang pabaldang tumayo si
kuya. “I’m tired. Mauuna na ako.”

“Daze Jaden!” sambit ni papa habang nakatingin kay kuya na dire-diretsong umakyat
ng pangalawang palapag. “That jerk.”

“Let him, Daniel. Baka may alitan lang sila ni Taliah kaya ganyan ang inaasta,”
saad ni mama sa mababang boses.

Tahimik ko lang silang pinagmamasdan. Hinilot ni papa ang kanyang sintido at

sumandal sa backrest ng sofa. He look at me with a smile.

“How is my princess doing here?” he asked. “Did you enjoy your christmas?”

Tumikhim ako at tumango. “Yes, papa.”

He nodded. “Anyway, papa has a gift for you.”

May hinugot siya sa kanyang wallet at napanganga ako nang iabot niya sa’kin ang
isang black card. “P-pa—”

“Me and your mother doesn’t know what gift you’d like so we’re just giving you
this.”

Tinanggap ko ang card at ngumiti ng matamis. “This is the best gift, papa.”

Lie. The thing on my neck is the best gift. I wonder how much it cost?

“Regarding your marriage,” panimula ni mama dahilan upang maibaling namin ni papa
ang atensiyon sa kanya. “I’m sorry if I had to say it over the phone. Masyado lang
akong na-excite sa isiping ikakasal na ang bunso ko.”

Napipilitan man, ngumiti ako dito. “It’s okay, ma.”

“Art likes you a lot even if he just saw you on pictures,” ani ni papa. “He’ll be
on Philippines next year to talk to you personally about your wedding.”

Napanganga ako. “H-hindi po ba masyado pa pong maaga? I still want to reach my

dream, papa. At isa pa, hindi ko po kilala ang pakakasalan ko. Who knows what kind
of attitude he possessed.”

Umiling si mama. “Art is a kind person. He graduated in Business Management as cum-

laude in Harvard University just like your brother. Family-oriented and a
compassionate person. What more can you ask for?”

Tumahimik ako sa sinabi ni mama. Not that I’m empressed, but I got insulted. Bakit
pa ba nila ako ipapakasal? I can live and have a good life right after I graduate.
Hindi ko kailangang dumipende sa iba.

“Kung sakaling magpapakasal din sila kuya mo at Taliah, there would be a double
wedding!” Ngumiti si mama ng malawak.

Doon na ako tuluyang nanghina. Kung nakakapanghina ang balitang ikakasal na ako sa
taong hindi ko kilala, mas lalo akong nanghina na ikakasal na si kuya.

Why do I even feel this?

--
The wind’s blowing some of my stray hair as I watch the moon being reflected by the
sea. The crickets are making a sound and that makes the night more calm. Nakakagaan
sa pakiramdam.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga kasabay ng pag-ihip ng malamig na hangin. The

waves crushing the shore makes the scenery breathtaking. The clock ticks eleven in
the evening and everyone in the house were asleep. Hindi ako makatulog kaya lumabas
nalang ako dala ang aking phone.

I sat on the white sand and watch the waves, together with the stars and moon.
Everything is captivating. I could watch this scene forever without any
hesitations.

My mind suddenly drifted on the reason why I can’t fall asleep. Wala sa sarili
akong napahawak sa pendant ng kwentas na suot ko ngayon. My heart skips a beat and
ached at the same time. How can it be even possible?

Kuya will be marrying another girl, and I’ll be marrying another man. We can’t keep
this thing between us forever, maybe we already reached our limitation. Maybe this
is God’s way to tell me this is wrong.

Napaisip ako kay Kiyo. Sa oras na ikakasal ako, wala na talaga. The years I’ve
spent waiting for him, will be gone for good. It’ll become useless. Siguro tanga na
ako sa
patuloy na paghihintay sa taong walang kasiguraduhang bumalik.

I heaved another deep breath when memories from last night flashed inside my mind.
Aminin ko man o hindi, I actually liked what happened. Hindi ko alam kung bakit
hindi ako nakakaramdam ng pandidiri sa nangyari sa amin ni kuya. He’s my brother
for crying out loud! Pero ni-katiting na pandidiri, wala akong maramdaman.

Bahagya akong napaigtad nang may nagpatong ng jacket sa balikat ko. I look up at
the person and found out it was my brother, Daze.

“It’s almost midnight. Why are you still here?” he asked in a gentle voice.
Magkaiba sa boses na gamit niya kanina.

Ngumiti ako dito. “I just wanna watch the moon being reflected by the sea.” My eyes
shifted to the very wide sea. “It’s beautiful.”

“You’re more beautiful.” He sat beside me.

I chuckled. “This is the first time you complemented me.”

Nilingon ako nito at muling binalik ang paningin sa karagatan. “You’re always
beautiful in my eyes, Diana.”

Sa sinabi niya, muli kong naalala ang nakaraan. The way his cold eyes eyed me with
disgust few years ago. Napahawak ako sa aking dibdib. It still hurts me.

If I’m always beautiful in his eyes, why did he eyed me like that before? Piping
tanong ko sa’king sarili.

A question of mine that will remain a question that cannot be answered.

“Are you thinking about the wedding?” he asked.

I hummed and nod. “Yeah.”

Napatingin ako sa kanya nang hawakan niya ang kamay ko at bahagyang pinisil ito.
“Don’t worry. I’ll convince them not to marry you off.”

“Bakit?” That question just came out automatically from my mouth. “Bakit ayaw mo
akong ipakasal? Not that I want to marry someone I don’t know, but —”

“Because I don’t wanna lose you.” He gripped my hand tightly. Hinawakan niya ang
bewang ko at hinapit sa kanya palapit. He let my head rest on his chest. “I can’t
lose you.”

Mahina akong natawa. “You’re getting married, kuya. W-we can’t...” I gulped. “...
we can’t stay like this forever.”

“We can. If we want to," he said, voice full of finality.

Hindi ako umimik. Nanatili lamang akong nakasandal sa kanyang dibdib habang
pinapanood ang paghampas ng alon sa dalampasigan.

Moments later, he hummed a song. I’m really not familiar when it comes to new
music, kaya hindi ko alam kung ano ang title ng kantang hinihimig niya.

“What kind of song is that?” I asked.

I felt him kissed my hair. “It’s a song that describes your mindset and mine.”

My forehead creased. Umayos ako ng upo at nilingon siya. “Ano?”

Ngumiti ito at ginulo ang buhok ko. “Soon you’ll know.”

“Huh?”

Sinundan ko ito ng tingin. Tumayo siya at nilahad sa akin ang kanyang kamay. Buong
pagtataka kong inabot ito at inakay niya ako patayo. Pinagpag niya ang buhangin sa
pang-upo ko at bahagyang nagulat nang pisilin niya ito.

I slapped his arms. “Kuya!”

He chuckled and kissed my lips. Agad namang akong humiwalay at tumingin sa

resthouse na nasa likod namin, afraid our parents might caught us in the act.

“Let’s get inside,” he said and held my waist. “You might catch cold.”

Tumango ako at sumama na sa kanya. He guided me inside the house while holding my
waist. Nakakaramdam na rin ako ng antok kaya hindi na ako nag-abala pang
magreklamo. Gusto ko na ring magpahinga, masyadong mahaba ang araw na ‘to para
sa’kin.

“T-teka, hindi ito ang kwarto mo,” pag-alma ko nang pumasok din siya sa kwartong
tinutuluyan ko.

“I’ll sleep here tonigh,” he replied. Binitiwan niya ang bewang ko at dumiretso sa
kama.

Bigla akong kinabahan sa isiping dito matutulog si kuya. Aside from being afraid we
might get caught, I’m afraid something might happen, again...

“B-baka magtaka sila mama kung bakit dito ka matutulog,” I reasoned out
He chuckled and grabbed my hand. Bumagsak ako sa kama at katabi siya. “I’ll leave
before dawn. Don’t worry.”

Nahihimigan kong pagod siya ngayong araw, ngunit masyado akong chismosa para
pigilan ang bibig ko.

“Where have you been since you left me alone this morning?” I asked.

He hummed. “Lyla called me to say that she can’t make my order to deliver today.
Ako na ang pumunta sa Maynila para kunin ang regalo ko sa’yo.”

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. Damn, heartbeat. Binubuking mo ako! “M-

magkakilala kayo ni Lyla? ‘Di ba sa united states siya nakatira?”

I’m curious. I always adore their products. Very alluring and elegant! How I wish
to meet her someday.

“Yeah.” He nodded. “She’s in the Philippines at the moment to attend her mother’s
wedding.”

Nangunot ang noo ko at dumapa. I faced him. “You mean, her mother married another
man? Or her father?”

“Lyla Tolentino came from a broken family, Diana,” sagot nito habang nakapikit.
“She’s in the same age as you.”

“I know because I’m a fan of her arts. Pero bakit mo alam ang buhay niya?” I’m
curious. Really.

He open his eyes and look at me. “She’s our cousin, you didn’t know?”

“I’m really sorry, kids,” hinging paumanhin ni papa. “But don’t worry, we’ll be
here before new year.”

Tumango si kuya. “Take care.”

Babalik ng manila si mama at papa dahil nagkaroon daw ng aberya ang negosyo sa
Manila. Kung kailan malapit na ang bagong taon, saka pa nagka-aberya.

“Mag-iingat din kayo dito. Elle, huwag mong pasakitin ulo ng kuya mo. Aalis na
kami.” Bumeso sa amin si mama habang si papa ay hinalikan ako sa noo.

We bid them goodbyes and a few more moments, kami nalang ulit ni kuya, manang
bebang, bina, at mang jose ang natira.

“Manang Bebang, may ramen pa po ba sa cabinet?” bungad kong tanong sa kanya nang
makalabas ito ng kusina.

“Hindi ko pa nasisilip, Senyorita,” she replied.

“Ramen is not good for your health,” sabat ni kuya sa usapan. “Maghanda nalang kayo
ng makakain niyo, manang. I’ll take Diana out.”

Nangunot ang noo ko. “Saan tayo pupunta?”

Tunalikod ito sa’kin. “Go change. We’ll roam around bora.”

Napangiti ako ng malawak. “We’ll do water activities?”

“Yeah.”

Ngumiti ako ng malapad at agad na umakyat patungo sa kwartong tinutuluyan ko.

Kinuha ko ang
isang puting tuwalya at hinubad lahat ng damit na suot ko bago dumiretso sa banyo.

Humarap ako sa sink at natigilan nang mapansin ko ang kwentas na nakasabit sa rock
ng mga hair tie. My hand reached for the pendant on what I am wearing at the
moment.

I always took off my accessories before I go to shower, but when did I forget
wearing the most precious thing to me?

Kinuha ko ito sa rock at tinitigang mabuti. My eyes lifted on the mirror in front
of me. Napatitig ako sa kwentas na kasalukuyang suot ko. I gripped the necklace on
my hand tightly.

Tangina, Kiyo. Kailan ka ba babalik?

I took another deep breath and placed down the necklace with butterfly pendant
before proceeding to the shower area.

Naging mabilis lang ang pagligo ko. I choose to wear the white two piece for my
undies, pinatungan ko ito ng isang denim na short pants at isang loose button-up
polo. I also perfumed myself with my favorite perfume scent, lilac.

Natigilan ako nang mapansin ko ang aking sarili sa salamin. My hand lifted to touch
my neck next to my collarbone, malapit sa pendant ng kwentas na binigay ni kuya.
Pinakatitigan ko itong mabuti at napuna ang hinala ko.

It’s a hickey!

Damn, did he did this while I’m asleep? Hindi ‘yun impossible dahil magkatabi kami
kagabi!

Nanlamig ang kamay ko sa isiping baka nakita ito nila mama at papa kanina. Pero
hindi naman sila nagtanong, e.

“So staring yourself in front of the mirror took you so long,” sabad ng taong hindi
ko namalayang nasa pinto ko na pala.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin. Kung dati ay manginginig ako sa takot kay kuya, ngayon
wala na. “Bakit mo ‘ko nilagyan ng kissmark?”

He chuckled. “To let everyone know you are already mine.”

Nangunot ang noo ko. “What?”

I watched him walked towards me and held my waist, pulling me close to his body.
“You belong to me, Diana.”

Napakapit ako sa kanyang braso at pilit na lumalayo. No matter how I much I want to
contradict what he just said, I know I’ll never win.

“M-mamasyal na tayo? Gutom na ako.” I changed the topic.

He nodded. “Alright. Let’s go.”

SenyoritaAnji
Chapter 11
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Chapter 11

"Dali na kasi!" I said.

We're inside this restaurant for breakfast before proceeding to water activities.
At kanina pa rin ako namimilit sa kanya na payagan akong kumain ng chicken inasal
nginunguya niya ngayon.

"You have skin allergies, Diana,” he said for the nth time.

Inismiran ko na lang ito at ang pork tocino na lang ang nilantakan. To be honest,
pakiramdam ko ay mabubulunan na ako. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang mga tinging ginagawad
ng mga nakapalibot sa amin. Not because they know we are siblings, but because my
brother is literally a head-turner.

"Anyways, what about your fiancée, Taliah? Hindi ko na kayo nagkikitang magkasama,"
tanong ko na pinagdidiinan ang salitang fiancée.

He paused and look at me using those piercing glares. "Stop bringing her up,
Diana."

"Bakit?" Sinubo ko ang isang slice ng tocino at ngumuya.

"Even just for this day, please don't think of other people. This day is for us."
Inabot niya ang kamay kong hawak ang kubyertos at pinisil ito. "Let's just think
about us."

I bit my cheek inside to stop myself from smiling. Who wouldn't? It seems like
everything is on my side. Kagaya ng sinabi ni kuya, ayoko munang isipin ang iba. I
want this for us.

Tumango ako. "Okay..."

He smiled and gripped my hand tightly. Binitawan nito ang kamay ko upang lagyan ng
mga pagkain ang pinggan ko. I was just watching him the whole time he's adding
foods on my plates. This feels like a dream come true. I never thought we'll be
gone to this. It felt surreal.

"Stop watching me and eat," he said using his deep and cold voice, but he is
smiling.

Baliw ba 'to?

"I never thought you have this kind of side, kuya," I murmured.

He paused and look at me. "I told you to call me Daze."

Napairap naman ako at ngumiti. "Okay, Daze."

"Good." He nodded and smiled. "Bilisan mong kumain. We'll go island hopping."

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko. Hindi na ako nagsalita pa at binilisan ang pagkain. I
heard him chuckled but I just don't mind him. Minadali kong tapusin ang pagkaing
inilagay niya sa plato ko. Muntikan pa akong mabilaukan ngunit maagap niya naman
akong inabutan ng tubig.

"I'm full." I leaned on the chair's backrest, holding my tummy.

He chuckled before calling some waiter. Kumuha ako ng tissue at pinunasan ang gilid
ng labi ko. I glanced at my wristwatch for the time and found out it's already ten
in the morning. Now is the best time for sun-bathing.

"Where do you want to go first?" he asked as soon as we got out from the
restaurant.

I covered my mouth as I burped. Tumingin ako kay kuya at nag-peace sign na siyang
ikinailing niya. He reached for my waist and pulled me close as we walk towards the
shore.

"Okay ka lang, ku— Daze?" I asked nang mapansin kong nang-iigting ang panga nito na
parang galit.

He shook his head. "I told you not to wear shorts, didn't I?"

Nangunot ang noo ko. "'Yun ba ang mga kinagagalit mo?"

"Men are looking at your legs for fuck's sake!" He gritted his teeth.

Sa sinabi niya, napalibot naman ako ng paningin. And he was right, there are some
idiots who are looking at my legs.

Ngumiti ako at bumaling kay kuya. "Don't worry. I know you can fight."

Mas lalo akong napangiti nang umirap siya. "Yeah, whatever."

--

I can't help but to be amazed on the view. This is our last stop for island
hopping, but still the view would always took my breath away. Philippines is a
paradise, indeed.

Well, except from politics.

"Be careful," sambit ni kuya habang inaalalayan ako pababa ng bangka.

"Can you take me a picture?" I asked him.

Kanina pa kami namamasyal sa mga isla ngunit hindi ko man lang naisipang kumuha ng
litrato pang-post ko sa Instagram. I wonder if I can steal some photos with kuya?
Parang takot pa naman 'to sa camera.

"Yeah, sure," he replied shortly as soon as my feet landed on the sand.

Binigay ko sa kanya ang phone kong nasa camera app na. Dumistansiya ako sa kanya at
bahagyang binaba ang suot kong polo para sana ipakita ang collar bone ko. Ngunit
ibaba nito ang cellphone ko at sinamaan ako ng tingin.

"Itaas mo ang polo," he said.

Napatuwid ako ng tayo at sinimangutan siya. Seriously? Pati ba naman polo ko,
papakialaman niya? He's serious about it?

"It's fashion, Daze!" I yelled since we have farther distance.

Kita kong ibinulsa niya ang phone ko at naglakad patungong deriksiyon ko. Every
step he made makes every girls turn their head into his direction. Hindi nakaligtas
sa paningin at pandinig ko kung paano sila mamula at impit na tumili habang
pinapanood ang makisig na lalaking naglalakad palapit sa deriksiyon ko.

Who wouldn't? My brother is the epitome of the word 'drop-dead-gorgeous'. His moves
were captivating. Sarap sungalngalin.

Nang makalapit ito sa akin ay siya na mismo ang nag-angat ng kwelyo ng polo'ng suot
ko. He shot me death glares na binalewala ko lang. I choose to give him my sweetest
smile at kinawit ang aking braso sa kanyang leeg.

He held my waist to keep my balance and I laughed. "Shall we take pictures

together?"

Umirap ito sa akin at mas hinapit ako palapit. I can sense some stares coming from
the girls here in Crocodile Island, but who cares? This man standing and holding my
waist is mine.

Wait— what?! Where did that word mine coming from?!

"Here." Inabot niya sa akin ang phone ko.

I smiled sweetly before swiping it to open the camera. I positioned the phone to
angle me and him. Hindi naman mahirap kumbinsihin si kuya na ngumiti kaya ngiting
tagumpay ako habang kumukuha ng litrato.

“Quit staring.” Napaiwas ako ng tingin nang mapansin ko sa screen na nakatitig lang
siya sa’kin.

He chuckled and pulled me more closer. Kinuha niya sa kamay ko ang cellphone at
pinalit ang sa kanya. Nagtataka ko naman siyang tinignan.

“Take photos of us in my phone," he said.

Tumango ako. Lumingon-lingon pa ako upang humanap ng maaaring kumuha sa amin ng

litrato. My eyes landed on the woman taking pictures of the torquiose water.
Tinanggal ko ang pagkakahawak ni kuya sa bewang ko na ikinaangal niya.

I walked towards the girl and poked her. “Uhm, hey.”

Nilingon ako nito at bahagyang nangungunot ang noo. “Yes?”

Ngumiti ako ng matamis. “Can I ask you a friendly favor? Can you take us a pic?” I
asked, gesturing my brother who’s eyebrows was about to collide right now.

“Oh, sure.” She gladly nodded and I gave her my brother’s phone.

Lumapit ako kay kuya na may ngiti sa labi. “She’ll take us a picture.”

“Halata nga,” he murmured sarcastically earning a slap from me on his tummy. He

groned. “What was that?”

Ngumiti lang ako dito at humarap sa babaeng hawak ang phone. She motioned us to
pose and that’s what we did.

Nakahapit ang braso ni kuya sa bewang ko habang ang dalawang kamay ko ay nakataas
at naka-peace sign. The phone clicked and the girl motioned us again into another
pose.

“You look perfect together!” she exclaimed. “Your relationship must be very
strong.”

Napipilan ako sa sinabi ng babae. She’s a foreigner that’s why she didn’t knew the
Martinez clan. Almost all of the people coming from the Philippines knew the
Martinez siblings.

Do we look like lovers?

“How about posing some sweet couple poses? You know, kissing and hugging” she
suggested while gesturing her hands.

Nagkatinginan kami ni kuya. I was slightly taken aback when he smiled and murmured,
“Sure.”

Pinaharap niya ako sa kanya saka hinawakan ang chin at bewang ko. He lifted my chin
and his lips landed on my nose, just as when I heard the phone clicked. Hindi agad
ako maka-react. I heard the woman exclaimed but my mind was busy processing what
just happened.

“Oh my gosh, are you both a model of this country? You look good on your photos,”
she
said.

Hilaw akong napangiti dito. She asked for another pose again, and that’s what we
did. Marami-rami rin ang mga litratong kuha namin. There’s a shot where I ride on
his back and holding his hair, a shot where he was kissing the side of my head
while I’m making a face, and such.

“Okay, for the last shot.” Tumuwid ng tayo ng babae at tila ba nag-iisip. “What
about, you both kissing each other?”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa sinabi niya. Mabilis akong umiling na may ngiti sa labi.
“N-n—”

“Sure,” my brother replied in a very cool way. Like it’s just a normal thing.

“Nice!” She smiled happily.

Bahagya akong napasinghap nang hapiting muli ni kuya ang bewang ko. I held his
shoulders for support when my eyes settled on his piercing ones. The woman counted
and my brother leaned in and captured my lips.

Wala sa sarili kong naipikit ang aking mga mata at napahigpit ang kapit sa balikat
niya. I felt him pulling me more closer and his kisses deepen.

I should feel disgust, right? We’re kissing... in the middle of the crowd... but
no. Instead of disgust, I can feel million and millions of butterflies on my
stomach. Parang nakikiliti ako.

Unang bumitaw si kuya sa halikan at bumaling sa babaeng kumuha sa amin ng litrato.

Inabot niya sa’min ang cellphone ni kuya na may ngiti sa labi.

“Thank you for your time,” Kuya said and asked if she wanted a tip.

“No, thank you," she declined. “It’s really a nice taking pictures of the both of
you. The camera loves the sight of you two.”
Kimi akong ngumiti at muling nagpasalamat. Nag-paalam naman na ito dahil kukuha pa
daw siya ng mga litrato habang kami naman ni kuya ay naglalakad-lakad muna sa gilid
ng dagat bago napag-isipang bumalik para mag jet-ski.

“What are you doing?” he asked.

Maingay ang makina ng bangka kaya kailangan pa ni kuya na ilapit ang kanyang bibig
sa’king tenga para marinig ko ang kanyang sasabihin.

“Hmm...” I hummed. “Posting my pictures on instagram. Pawala-wala pa ang signal.” 

Bahagya pa akong napaigtad nang hapitin niya ang bewang ko at hinila ako palapit sa
pwesto niya. Lima lamang kaming nasa bangka kaya hindi na kailangang magdikit-
dikit. Pero linta yata ‘tong kasama ko kung makahapit sa bewang ko. Kanina pa ‘to,
e.

“You should post, too,” I said. “Teka, hindi ko pa nakikita ‘yung mga pictures
natin kanina.”

“Nah.” He took a deep breath near my hair. “I’ll show it later.”

Napailing nalang ako dito at bahagyang natawa.

“Pa-thrill ka pa, ah.”

--

“Hmm, what about paddle-boarding?” I asked.

Kakatapos lang namin mag jet-ski, mahapdi na ang balat ko ngunit hindi ko ito
pinansin. I’m still aiming to experience their water activities and such. Lalong-
lalo na ang scuba diving, and snorkeling.

“That’s tiring,” pagrereklamo nito na ikinairap ko.

“Edi—” Naputol ang ano mang sasabihin ko nang biglang sumulpot ang taong hindi ko
inaasahang sisira ng araw ko.

“Hubby!” A lady in a red biniki attire approached my brother and kissed his cheeks
without any warning.

Alam kong nagulat din si kuya ngunit tinago niya ito sa pagkablanko ng kanyang
mukha. He look at me and I raised my eyebrows. Napaiwas din ako ng tingin nang
bumaling sa akin si
Taliah.

“Oh hey, sissy,” she said. Lumapit pa ito sa akin upang bumeso na siyang ikinairap
ko.

Amoy plastic.

I faked a smile. “Hey, Taliah.”

“What brings you here?” my brother asked in a very cold tone.

Hinarap siya ni Taliah na may ngiti sa labi. “I visited your resthouse and manang
Bebang said you’re out with your sister that’s why I came along to join you!”
Peke akong napangiti nang tingnan ako ni kuya. Humikab ako. “I’ll just buy some
food. Gutom na ako.”

Hindi ko na hinintay ang sagot niya. I just turned around and walked away. Sira na
ang araw ko. Ikaw ba naman makakita ng naglalakad na plastic, hindi pa masisira ang
araw mo?

Nang masiguro kong wala na ako sa paningin ni kuya ay umupo ako sa isang puting
bato. Hindi naman talaga ako gutom. Gusto ko lang lumayo sa kanila, lalong-lalo
na’t kasama ni kuya ang fiancée niya.

“Vielle?” somebody behind me called my name.

Nilingon ko ito at napagtantong si satanas ang tumawag sa’kin. Hindi pa pala umalis
ang gunggong na ‘to. “Lucifer.”

“Are you alone?” he asked, making his way towards me.

Umiling ako. “No—”

“Great. I’m kinda hungry so come with me.” Hinawakan nito ang braso ko at hinila sa
kung saan mang lugar.

Aangal pa sana ako nang maalala kong kasama pala ni kuya ang magiging asawa niya
kung kaya’t hinayaan ko nalang.

We stopped at a restaurant and he ordered everything on the menu that he think

would
suffice his hunger.

“Why are you hiding your gorgeous bikini outfit behind that polo?” he asked while
waiting for his order.

Umirap ako dito. “I’m with my brother actually. But his fiancée came along and it—”

“It made you feel awkward because you look like a third-wheel that’s why you
excused yourself and I found you. Am I right?” he cut me and I nodded. “But my
question is too far from your answer.”

I blow a loud breath. “Pinagbawalan niya akong hubarin ang polo.”

Siya naman ang napairap. Konti nalang iisipin ko talagang may dugong berde itong si
satanas. “A very typical conservative brother protecting his pretty little sister.”

“Too much flowery word, Russo,” I retorted.

“You should take that off.” Dumating ang order niya kaya napatigil siya sa
pagsasalita. Nang makaalis ang waiter ay muli na naman siyang kumuda. “Let’s spend
this afternoon together.”

Tumaas ang kilay ko. “Are you dating me without my knowledge?”

He smirked in a manly way and winked. “You’re not as slow as what I think.”

Sinipa ko ito at bahagyang natawa nang umungot ito sa sakit. Nagsimula na itong
kumain na tahimik habang ako naman ay sumisimsim sa buko juice na ini-order niya.

Total sira naman ang araw ko, why not spend it with this idiot?
Matapos kumain ni satanas, lumabas kaagad kami ng resto at doon na nagsimula ang
lahat.

“Anong gagawin natin?” he asked.

I want to dive. “Scuba diving.”

“Okay, let’s go.”

Lalakad na sana kami nang may naisip ako. Wala pa akong litrato na mag-isa dahil
sinita ako ni kuya kanina. Better do it now while the cat is away.

“Can you take a picture of me?” I asked.

Tumango naman ito. Inabot ko sa kanya ang phone ko at nagpaalam na magbibihis sa

banyo, ngunit ang totoo, hinubad ko lang ang suot kong shorts at binuksan ang
button-up polo na suot ko. Agad rin naman akong bumalik sa pwesto ni satanas na may
ngiti sa labi.

“Hey,” I called him.

He look at me and whistled. Playboy nga. “The snail finally went out of its shell.”

Natawa lang ako dito. Hinila ko siya malapit sa tabing dagat kung saan humahampas
ang alon. Mahangin ngayon kaya hindi masyadong tinatalaban ng init ng balat ko.

“Ayusin mo, ah.” Pinandilatan ko to ng mata.

Bagot itong tumango. Lumuhod naman ako sa buhangin na naaabot ng alon. I can sense
some stares but I just didn’t mind it.

Patuloy lang kami sa pagkuha ng litrato hanggang sa magdecide kami na mag-water

activities na. Inilugay ko ang buhok ko at hinayaang tangayin ng hangin.

“Faster,” sambit ni satanas at hinawakan ang pulso ko upang madali kaming

makarating sa linya.

Sinimangutan ko ito at aangal na sana nang may tumawag sa pangalan ko.

“Diana,” he said.

Tumigil kami sa paglalakad at nilingon ko ang lalaking bumanggit sa pangalan ko.

Fear suddenly assaulted my being as I saw my brother glaring at me.

His stares went down to Lucifer’s hand that’s holding my wrist. “I was worried
because you suddenly dissappear and now I’ll just find you with a stranger.”

“Lucy is not a stranger,” I replied.

I saw him clenched his jaw. “Magbihis ka na. Uuwi na tayo.”

I was about to open my mouth when the great Lucifer interjected our conversation.

“Me and my girlfriend is planning to spend this afternoon together. Iuuwi ko rin
siya sainyo.”

I bit my lower lip when I heard my brother murmured curses.

Tangina naman, satanas. Sana hindi mo na lang binuksan ang bibig mo.
SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 12
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Chapter 12

I can feel the deadly glares from my brother habang sinusuotan ako ni Lucifer ng
life jacket. I bit my lower lip to hide my fear. Feeling ko kasi makakapatay ang
aura ni kuya.

"You're afraid banana boat?" natatawang sambit ni Lucy na kasalukuyang nagkakabit

din ng kanyang life jacket.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin. "Alam mo, demonyo ka talaga, e."

He just chuckled. Tumawag naman na ang isang lalaki para makasakay na kami. May
iilang nakahanda na at kinakabahan, iilan ay tumitili sa excitement, habang ang
ilan ay tumitili habang nakatingin kay kuya at kay satanas. Lucifer is a beautiful
male. Kaso demonyo talaga, e.

Nauna kaming lumapit sa banana boat ni Lucifer. The guy who called for passengers
and Lucy helped me to ride. Hinawakan ako ni satanas sa bewang at inalalayang
makasakay at sumunod naman siya. The instructor guides us where to held kapag
umandar na.

Nilingon ko ang pwesto nila kuya at napansing kasunod ko ay si satanas, kasunod

naman ni satanas si Taliah at si Kuya. I was about to ask something to my brother
when the great Lucifer spoke.

"Hold on tight, Vielle. You might fall," he said, smiling like a lunatic idiot as
if he's telling me a double meaning sentence.

Inirapan ko lang ito na may ngiti sa aking labi. Binalik ko ang aking paningin sa
unahan ko at humawak sa handle. There's this two girls before me, and I guess they
are best friends. They keep on chattering and I think they are talking about Lucy
and my brother, Daze.

"Everyone's ready?" nakangiting tanong ng lalaking sa tingin ko ay magmamaneho ng

motor boat.

Tumango kaming lahat. Muling ngumiti ang lalaki, and that's when the splashing of
water started.

The motor boat begin pulling the banana boat into the water. Napapahigpit ang hawak
ko sa handle nang maramdaman kong mabilis ang pagpapatakbo ng motorboat.

Gusto kong mag-enjoy, ngunit naiirita ako sa babaeng nasa unahan ko na kung
makatili ay akala mo sila lang ang tao na nakasakay. I'm torn between covering my
ears and holding the handle tight to prevent myself from falling.

"Hold tightly, Vielle. The boat's increasing the speed," pasigaw na sambit ni
satanas sa likod ko.

Nilingon ko ito at nginitian. I nodded my head and face in front again. Napasinghap
ako nang biglang bumilis ang takbo ng motorboat. And I guess it wasn't just me who
got surprised by the sudden increasing of speed, dahil ang dalawang babae sa harap
ko ay hindi na nakakapit.

The girl was about to fall but she reached my arms, my grip on the handle loosened
and I fell into the water with her. Narinig ko pa ang pagtawag ni satanas sa
pangalan lumubog na ako sa tubig. Ramdam ko ang pagkalas ng life jacket na suot ko
nang palubog ako.

I wasn't able to reach the girl's hand due to the impact of the fall. Hindi ako
nakahanda ng hangin sa baga ko dahilan upang mag-panic ako.

I don't have any life jacket, fuck!

Sinubukan kong lumangoy pataas ngunit nakaramdam ako ng pamamanhid ng binti ko. I
tried to open my eyes but it only cause my eyes irritation. I paddled my feet to no
avail. Hindi ako makalangoy.

Dahil nakapikit ako, hindi ko malaman kung malapit na ba ako sa itaas o hindi.
Nawawalan na rin ako ng hangin.

I was about to breath in the water when somebody held my arms and pulled me up to
resurface above the water.

"Dang it!" I heard a curse as soon as I inhaled.

I slightly parted my lips to breath in some oxygen. I also wiped the water out my
face and opened my eyes only to see the two girls looking at my direction— no, to
the person on my right.

Nilingon ko ito at bahagyang nagulat nang si kuya ito. He took off his life jacket
and attached it to me. Ramdam ko ang galit na nararamdaman niya sa pamamagitan ng
pag-iiting ng kanyang panga.

"T-thank you," sambit ko at nag-iwas ako ng paningin dito.

Hinawakan nito ang bewang ko at inalalayan ako. He used his free-hand to swim
towards the two girl's direction. And if heart shaped iris do exist, ganyan ang
magiging mata ng dalawang babaeng kaharap namin ngayon.

"Should you apologize?" malamig at may diing tanong ni kuya.

I saw how the two girls got taken aback the way he spoke. Umiwas sila ng tingin at
napahawak sa kani-kanilang life jacket.

"S-sorry. Hindi ko naman sinadyang hilahin ka, e. Nagulat lang din ako sa biglang
bilis ng banana boat. Sorry talaga," walang preno nitong sambit.

I just nodded my head. Napatingin naman ako sa paparating na motor boat. Naaninag
ko si Taliah at Lucy na nakasakay doon, Taliah is even calling for my brother.

Ramdam ko ang paghigpit ng kapit ni kuya sa bewang ko nang tuluyan nang makalapit
ang motor boat. Lucifer immediately extended his hand for me to reach, kuya Daze
also held my waist to lift me up.

“Are you okay? I’m sorry I wasn’t able to capture your hand," he said
apologetically.

Ngumiti lang ako dito. “It’s fine. Falling from the banana boat is just normal.
Don’t worry.”
Nakaakyat na rin si kuya sa motor boat. Taliah immediately handed him a white
towel, the same as Lucy did. Sinuklian ko lang ito ng ngiti at nagsimula na namang
umandar ang bangka.

“Are you fine? Bakit ba kasi tumalon ka? Are you hurt somewhere?” I heard his
fiancée asked.

Wala akong narinig na sagot kaya nilingon ko ito at nadatnang nakatitig ito sa
pwesto ko. Umiwas ako ng paningin at bumaling kay satanas na busy sa pagtitipa ng
kanyang telepono.

“Busy ang demonyo, ah,” I said.

Tinignan ako nito at ngumiti. “Demonyo? Seriously?” He chuckled. “Someone just

invited me to cook for a big wedding event. Should I accept it?”

“It's up to you,” sagot ko. “It’s a good platform actually to showcase your talent.
You know, make name before building a restaurant. It’s a big event, expect a lot of
visitors.”

Napatango-tango na parang tanga ang gago. “You’re right. Maybe a try won’t hurt.”

I just chuckled, saktong nakarating na kami sa baybayin. Naunang bumaba si Lucifer

ay nagulat ako nang sumunod si kuya. They both faced my direction and offered their
hands. Nagkatinginan pa ang dalawa dahil sa pagsabay ng kanilang galaw.

I bit my lower lip and was about to reach my brother’s hand when someone held it
before I could touch it. Nilingon ko ito at napagtantong si Taliah ang nagmamay-ari
ng kamay.

She was smiling as she accepted my brother’s hand and he helped her move down the
motor boat. Tinanggap ko ang kamay ni Lucy at nginitian siya. He held my waist and
help me off from the boat.

“What you wanna do next?” he asked as we finally got off from the boat.

I look at my brother’s direction, he’s talking with his fiancée. “Can we spend the
rest of this day talking about shits in life?” I suddenly blurted out.

Ngumiti ang demonyo. “That’s great, I’m in.”

--

Inabot niya sa akin ang isang bote ng soju. Nginitian ko lang ito bago tinanggap
ang inalok niyang alak. We’re in the seashore, the sky isn’t friendly for no stars
can be seen on the very wide sky. Sunod-sunod rin ang hampas ng alon sa
dalampasigan dala ng hangin.

“What made you asked me to talk about shits in life?” he asked as he took a sip on
his liquor bottle.

I just chuckled. “Nothing. I just realized how terrible and shit life can be.”

Mahina ring natawa si satanas. “Life is always a shit, Vielle.”

“Yeah,” I agreed. “Life sucks.”

Muli itong tumunga sa hawak niyang alak habang nakatingin sa malawak na karagatan.
“It is.”
I drank on my bottle. Matapos ang nangyari kanina, wala kaming naging pansinan ni
kuya. Lucifer also came home with us because I say so, and now we’re here in the
seashore and backstabbing life.

“Something’s bothering you, I can sense it,” wika nito.

I hummed. “Hmm-mm. There is.”

“That’s why you asked for a night to spend and talk about shit which turns out to
be your problem.” Tinignan ako nito. “I’m starting to get comfortable with you.
Should I make you my girlfriend?”

My hand immediately landed on his arms in a very fast and hard motion. Kita ko ang
pagngiwi nito sa biglaang reaksiyon ko na ikinatawa ko ng mahina.

“By the way, why the hell did you tell my brother you are my man? Are you asking to
die?” Pinandilatan ko ito ng mata.

He was still caressing the part where I hit him as he answered, “Nothing. I just
feel like it. Akala ko kasi papagalitan ka kaya sinabi ko ‘yun.”

Doon ako napahalakhak. “Seriously, Lucifer, naisip mo pa ‘yun? I am already twenty-

two. Sino pa bang magagalit kapag nalaman ng isang magulang na may jowa ang anak
nilang bente-dos anyos.”

“Your brother,” he replied and shrugged. “He’s not your parent, though. But I
saw the anger he supressed after I said I was your boyfriend.”

Napipilan ako sa sinabi nito. Okay, heart kalma. “I guess it was just a normal
reaction. You know, I never had a boyfriend in my entire life.”

Tinignan ako nito. “Seriously? Ako ba niloloko mo, Vielle?”

“Nope,” I replied, popping the ‘p’. “Flings? Yeah, I have a lots of them. But no
boyfriend.”

He nodded and took a sip on his bottle, and that’s what also I did. Tinunga ko ang
alak habang nakatitig sa karagatan.

“It makes me wonder how it feels like to fall in love,” I murmured. Umihip ang
hangin na nagtangay sa nakalugay kong buhok.

I heard him chuckled. “Being in love is both the best and worst feeling at the same
time.”

Best and worst? As far as I’ve heard, it is the best feeling ever that you can feel
yourself on cloud nine.

“Why?” mahinang tanong ko at hindi inaalis ang paningin sa karagatan.

“Best because you know you have someone to be with you on your worst days, you have
someone to lean on, you have someone to talk to when you feel yourself about to
burst with too much emotions.” Ngumiti ito at uminom sa kanyang bote, doon ko lang
din napansin na ubos na ito. “At the same time, it’s worst.”

“Why?” naguguluhan kong tanong.

“The day your lover went out from your door step, it’s the worst feeling ever. It’s
suffocating. The jealousy you felt is something like you badly want to kill
someone. The pain when you found your lover being happy with other person than
you.” He took a deep breath and puts down the bottle he’s holding on the sand.
“Love is confusing, and love is something you don’t want to enter.”

Napangiti ako dito nang ngumiti ito. I drank my soju ‘til the very last drop and
drops the bottle on the sand.

“When will you ever know when you’re in love?” I asked him.

I’m curious, if this feeling I had for my brother is just infatuation or love. I
want to know. Mahirap mangapa sa dilim.

“There are many signs of being in love like smiling like an idiot even when you’re
alone, you don’t entertain the anxiety and bad vibes, and such.” Nilingon ako nito.
“But you know what really determines when you are in love with someone?”

“What?” I whispered.

He look at me: his eyes were giving me a warning. “It is when you got mad just with
the thought of him with someone else’s arms.”

Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya. The cold wind were blowing my hair but my mind is in
deep thought. Lahat ng sinabi ni Lucifer ay nararamdaman ko sa iisang tao. Simula
sa inis ko sa tuwing kasama niya si Taliah, ‘yung sakit na naramdaman ko nung pasko
na inakala kong iniwan niya ako sa hapag para kay Taliah.

“Is it still love? If it’s forbidden?” mahinang usal ko.

Tumawa si Lucy na ikinalingon ko. “Damn, I’m not a love adviser, but yes, love hits
no matter what status, age, and face and race you have. Kapag tinamaan ka, tinamaan
ka. Even if the love you had is forbidden, you would still take the risk of falling
in the name of fucking love.”

“Isn’t it unfair?” I replied. “Pinagbabawal na pagmamahalan?”

He didn’t reply. He just chuckled. Pumulot ako isang shell at binato sa dagat na
kinain naman kaagad ng alon.

“Are you having an affiar with someone forbidden?” he asks after a moment of
silent.

Nilingon ko ito at nginitian. “Forbidden affair?”

He nodded.

Bigla kong naisip ang mga pinaggagawa na’min ni kuya. From kissing, the thing that
happened on christmas... I smiled. “If that’s how you call it, then it must be a
forbidden affair.”

--

“Thank you for taking me home,” I thanked Lucy.

“Sleep now. You’re drunk already,” he said. Bahagya itong nag lean at dumampi ang
labi nito sa noo ko.

I smiled. “Still, thank you for spending the night with me.”
He chuckled and rufles my hair earning a glare from me. “It’s a pleasure spending
the night with my childhood friend.”

Ngumiti ako ng matamis dito. Magsasalita pa sana ako nang may naunang magsalita sa
likod ko.

“Where the hell did you came from, Diana?”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 13
6K
256
Chapter 13

“Where the hell did you came from, Diana?”

Napalingon ako dito at halos manlambot ang mga tuhod ko sa tinging ginagawad sa
akin ni Kuya. His glares shot to the person behind my back, and I guess he was
looking at Lucifer. Binalik ko naman ang tingin ko kay satanas at napilitang
ngumiti.

“Go on, now. Mag-iingat ka sa pag-uwi.” I smiled.

Kita ko ang pag-aalangan sa mga mata niya ngunit tumango din ito. He waved his
hands and nodded towards my brother to acknowledge his presence. Tumalikod na ito
at naglakad paalis habang ako ay naiwang nakatalikod kay kuya. Hindi ko alam kung
bakit takot na takot akong muling humarap sa kanya.

“Face and answer me, Diana. Saan kayo galing?” Ramdam ko ang bigat sa bawat
salitang binibigkas niya.

I took a deep breath and slowly faced him. I’m sleepy, and I want to rest. It’s
been a long day for me. Kaya sa halip na sagutin siya ay naglakad na ako papasok sa
loob ng bahay at nilampasan siya. Nahihilo na rin ako dala ng alak na ininom namin.
It tastes sweet, makes me to finish six bottles of them.

That traitor soju, I thought I won’t get drunk.

“Don’t turn your back on me when I am talking, Diana!” he yelled and followed me.

Dumiretso ako sa kusina at binuksan ang nakapatay na ilaw. I look for glass and
opened the fridge to look for a pitcher. Nang mahanap ko ito ay agad ko itong
kinuha at nagsalin ng tubig
sa basong hawak ko. Binalik ko rin ang pitsel sa loob ng fridge at muli itong
sinarado.

“Damn it! Stop ignoring me!” He grabbed my other arm.

Piniksi ko ito at saktong natapos akong uminom. Binaba ko ang baso sa malapit na
mesa at tinignan siya. My eyes were half-hooded because I’m feeling sleepy. “I’m
tired, kuya. Let’s just talk tomorrow.”

“Tired?” Nagulat ako nang kunin niya ang basong hawak ko kanina at tinapon ito sa
sahig na may kalayuan sa amin.

The broken glass created a very unwanted noise inside the whole kitchen. Nag-angat
ako ng tingin sa kanya at napansin ang malalalim na hininga niya.
“I was fucking worried on where the hell I would find you and you’ll gonna answer
me like that?! Really, Diana Vielle?” He brushed his finger through his hair and
look at me with his cold eyes. “Are you enjoying his company than mine? Do you like
him? Fuck it!”

Gusto kong matawa sa sinabi niya. Maybe I should praise the liqours for having me
no fear on listening to my brother’s thunder voice at the moment. Gusto ko rin
siyang kastiguhin. I want to ask him if he’s enjoying her fiancée’s company also,
but I remembered she is his fiancée, his soon to be bride. His future wife. Of
course, they’ll enjoy each other’s company. And that stings.

“Isipin mo na kung ano ang gusto mong isipin, kuya,” mahinang usal ko at bumuntong
hininga. “I was tired the whole day. Give me time to rest. Kakausapin nalang kita
bukas.”

Naputol ang pag-uusap namin nang may magsalita sa hamba ng pinto. Nilingon namin
ito at napagtantong si manang Bebang ang nagsalita. Mahahalata mong kakagising niya
lang dahil sa kanyang mga mata.

“Senyorito?” Her eyes landed on me. “Senyorita Vielle? Bakit gising pa po kayo? Ano
‘yung ingay kanina?”

Hindi ako nagsalita. I slightly pushed my brother to make my way towards her
direction. “Wala po ‘yun, manang. Tulog ka nalang po ulit.”

She held my arms. “Lasing ka, senyorita?”

“Oh, no.” Umiling ako. “Just tipsy.”

“Nay, ano po ‘yung nabasag?” tanong ng kakarating na si Bina.

I guess they got awaken when Daze threw the glass. Kita ko namang napansin ni Bina
ang nabasag na baso dahilan para manlaki ang mga mata nito.

“Hala, ‘yung baso.” She pointed the broken glass that was shattered into many tiny
pieces.

Manang Bebang told her to clean the mess up and I excused myself. Inaantok na
talaga ako. Masyado akong nahihilo at hindi ko na kaya pang makipag-usap sa iba.

I went upstairs, not minding my brother who is now calling my name repeatedly.
Natatalisod pa ako minsan sa hagdan ngunit mahigpit naman ang kapit ko sa handrail
kaya nakaabot ako ng pangalawang palapag na hindi nadadapa. I hurriedly went inside
the room I occupied in this house and locked it before my brother might catch me.

Nang mai-lock ko ang pinto ay sumandal ako dito at dumaosdos paupo. Humikab ako at
pinikit ang aking mga mata habang nakasandal. I felt and heard someone calling my
name and slamming my door repeatedly.

“Open this damn door, Diana," he said.

Mahina akong natawa dito. Very dominant, just like the old Daze Jaden Martinez.
Kung hindi siguro ako nakainom ay baka kanina ko pa siya pinagbuksan sa takot. His
voice thundered all over the house and that’s why the maids got waken up.

“Why would I?” I whispered and chuckled to myself. 

“Diana, buksan mo ang pinto!” He continued slamming on my door. “Bina, get me the
spare keys!”
Napaisip ako sa napag-usapan namin ni Lucifer kanina. He’s right. Love hits no
matter what you are, no matter who you are. The difference is that, what I am
feeling is really weird. Hindi ka tanggap-tanggap.

“Lord, para na akong sasabog,” I whispered as my brother keep on knocking on my

door.
“I don’t know what to do with my life anymore.”

Wala akong mapagsabihan. Wala akong mga trinatong kaibigan. Nakakadiri rin
pakinggan ang ikukwento ko. Damn, I wish I had a home friend. Gusto kong may
mapagsabihan ng mga hinanaing ko. But sadly, I have none. Feeling ko sasabog na ako
sa mga halo-halong nararamdaman ko. Magulo pa ang utak ko.

Pinatong ko ang aking noo sa magkadikit kong tuhod at pumikit. My head’s spinning.
Gusto ko nang humiga sa kama ngunit masyado na akong nahihilo para tumayo. Humikab
ako at dahan-dahang binagsak ang sarili sa lapag.

Good night, world. Fuck me again tomorrow.

--

“Punyeta,” mahinang bulong ko nang makaramdam ako ng kirot sa’king sintido.

“Kakagising mo pa lang nagmumura ka na,” saad ng isang pamilyar na boses.

I opened my left eye to know who the hell is speaking. It’s papa. Hinilot ko ang
aking sintido at nagsalita. “What are you doing here, papa? I thought you were in
Manila?”

“Kakauwi pa lang namin kaninang tanghali,” he said. Ngayon ko lang din napagtanto
na may tray ng pagkain sa ibabaw ng nightstand at may gamot.

But wait— what?! “T-tanghali?”

He nodded. “It’s four in the afternoon, Senyorita. How many bottles of liqour did
you consumed to make you sleep that long?”

“I don’t know,” I murmured, still massaging my temple. “Six?”

“That’s made your brother angry.” he said which caught my attention. “Tinawagan
kami ng manang Bebang kanina para ipaalam na nag-away kayo ng kuya mo kagabi.
Someone even broke the glass, who did it?”

Huh? Nag-kasagutan ba kami ni kuya? Wala akong maalala. My last memory from last
night is when Lucifer took me home. Hindi ko na maalala kung paano ako nakaabot ng
silid na’to. I can’t even remember if me and my brother did encounter last night.

Damn, being low alcohol tolerance bitch is somewhat frustrating!

“I don’t know. Wala na akong maalala.” Humikab ako at tuluyan nang binuksan ang
dalawa kong mata. “Bakit hindi niyo ako ginising pagkauwi niyo?”

“Daze said you’re drunk.” Papa caressed my hair. “May problema ka ba, anak? Are you
hiding some serious problems? You can tell it to me.”

Panandalian akong natigilan sa sinabi ni papa. Problema? I chuckled to myself. I

have a lots of them. Sobrang dami nga, e. But it’s really inappropriate for him to
hear my nonsensical problem.
Umiling ako. “Wala, pa. Frustrated lang ako sa hindi matapos-tapos kong thesis.
Marami pa rin akong kailangan i-comply sa school.”

Tinitigan ako ni papa at pinanliitan ng mata. He then sigh. “Okay, okay. But if you
have a problem, just tell papa, okay? You don’t have to keep problems to yourself.”

Ngumiti ako dito at tumango. “Yes, papa.”

He smiled at me and ruffled my hair. “Kainin mo na ‘tong pagkain na niluto ng mama

mo. Dinamihan na niya dahil hindi ka na nakapag-agahan at tanghalian. Also, drink
this tablet to listen your headache. Bumaba ka kaagad.”

“Yes, sir!” I saluted and we both chuckled.

Nagpaalam na itong bababa na dahil magbibihis pa daw siya para magpunta sa kompanya
ni kuya dito sa Boracay. And speaking of the devil...

Nag-away ba kami? Nagkasagutan? Damn, bakit hindi ko maalala?!

Bahagya kong kinatok ang ulo ko, baka sakaling may lalabas na memorya patungkol sa
nangyari kagabi. Ngunit wala! Mas kumirot lang ang sintido ko sa pagkatok ko.
Dimwit!

Kinuha ko ang tray at nagsimula nang kumain. Walang mangyayari kung tutunganga ako
at pilit na aalalahanin ang nangyari kagabi. No matter how curiosity wants to kill
me, I’ll just wait for the memories to float by itself.

Minadali kong kumain. Ininom ko kaagad ang gamot na nasa night stand at
napagdesisyonang
maligo. Kinuha ko ang nag-iisang puting tuwalya at kulay pink na bath robe. Nang
makapasok ako sa loob ng banyo ay napadaan ako sa salamin.

Hindi ko maiwasang tapunan ng tingin ang kwentas na nakasabit sa rock. The

butterfly pendant necklace; Kiyo’s gift. Napahawak naman ako sa kwentas ka
kasalukuyang suot ko. I look at my reflection into the mirror while holding my
necklace.

Gustong-gusto ko itong hubarin, pero parang may nagpipigil sa’kin. Nakakapanibago.

Dati-rati, magpa-panic ako kapag hindi ko makapa ang kwentas na bigay sa akin ni
Kiyo. Ngunit ngayon, parang halos hindi ko na maalala na may pag-aari pa pala akong
mula sa taong hanggang ngayon, hinihintay ko pa.

I smiled to myself as I let go of the necklace I’m wearing and reached for the
necklace on the rock. Inangat ko ang kanang paa ko at inilapat ito sa sink. I bit
my lip as I encircled the necklace on my ankle. Matapos ay inilock ko ito at
tinignang mabuti.

“At least I’m still fulfilling my promise on not to separate your treasure on my
body,” mahinang bulong ko sa aking sarili bago nagpatuloy sa loob ng shower area.

Inabot pa ako ng halos isang oras sa loob bago ko naisipang lumabas. Binalot ko
muna ang aking sarili sa bathrobe bago lumabas.

I was humming a song as I went out. Patuloy lang ako sa palalakad patungong closet
nang may magsalita na halos ikatalon ko sa gulat.

“Let’s talk.” His calm and cold voice echoed the whole room.
Nilingon ko ito at wala sa sariling napalunok. “K-kuya...”

Nakaupo ito sa kama at nakatingin sa akin. He chuckled. “How many times do I have
to tell you to call me by my name?”

Umiwas ako dito ng tingin at bumuntong hininga. “P-pwedeng mamaya nalang tayo mag-
usap? Hindi pa ako nakakapagpalit— kuya!”

Mabilis ang mga naging galaw nito na hindi ko man lang namalayang nakalapit na pala
siya sa pwesto ko. He harshly grabbed my hand and pinned it on the near closet and
above my head.

“K-kuya...”

“You really know how to make me come around,” he murmured, our distance were only
enough for air to pass. He tilted his head and his breathing fanned my neck. “You
already committed a lot of mistakes towards me.”

He leaned closer that I could feel his lips almost touching my neck. “Shall I make
you kneel?”

Wala sa sarili akong napahawak sa kanyang balikat nang siilin niya ako sa mainit na
halik. I felt his other hand held my waist and the other that was pinning my hand
above me, was now holding my cheeks, deepening the kiss.

Kinagat nito ang ibabang labi ko bago pinutol ang aming halikan. Napasinghap ako
nang maramdaman kong dahan-dahang bumukas ang suot kong bathrobe.

Damn, even his hands were fast!

I held the both tie to prevent it from opening. Muli ko itong binuhol at sinamaan
siya ng tingin I murmured some curses when he started kissing my neck.

“Whatever mom said, answer her with a no,” he murmured. “Did you get me?”

Napalunok ako nang bahagyan nitong sipsipin ang balat ng leeg ko. “W-why?”

He buried his face on my neck and plant there small and soft kisses. “Just don’t.
Decline.”

A knock from the door interrupted our conversation. “Elle, labas ka na. Gusto kang
makausap ng mama mo.”

I felt my brother sucked a skin on my neck making me moan lowly. “S-susunod na po,
papa.”

“Okay. Magmadali ka.” Kasunod nito ang mga yapak paalis at palayo.

Lumayo si kuya sa akin at ginawaran ako ng isang malamig na tingin. It’s like he’s
telling me to follow his command or else I’ll face a severe punishment. Umiwas ako
ng tingin dito at tuluyan na siyang lumabas ng silid.

I held my chest and took a deep breath. I think I just forgot to breath. I composed
myself and changed. Nagbihis ako ng isang denim shorts at oversized shirt. I blow
dried my hair
before I went out of the room.

Dumiretso ako pababa ng sala at napansing nandoon na rin pala si kuya. Pasimple
kong tinago ang markang iniwan niya gamit ang aking buhok at binati sila mama.
“Ma,” I called her out.

Nilingon ako nito at nginitian. “You’re awake. Come here and let’s talk.”

Lumapit ako at hinalikan siya sa pisngi bago ako umupo sa pangdalawahang sofa
katabi si kuya. My mom shot the both of us with her glares.

“Alam niyo bang bungad sa amin kaninang umaga ang balitang nag-away kayong dalawa
kagabi?” Hinilot nito ang kanyang sintido. “I thought you both already are in good
terms? Bakit kayo nag-away kagabi?”

Nagkatinginan kami ni kuya at ni isa sa amin ay walang nagsalita. Damn, it feels

like we’re a grade school student that got scolded.

“Anyway, enough of that topic.” She took a deep breath and compose a smile. Alam ko
na kung kanino nagmana si kuya sa pagiging bipolar. “Art will visit Philippines
next year to meet you!”

I just nodded. Not a big deal.

“And you’ll both start to live together in a single roof to bond with each other,”
dagdag ni papa na ikinagulat ko.

Dahan-dahan kong nilingon si kuya na tahimik at matalim ang tingin sa mesang nasa
harap.

Ito ba ang ibig sabihin niya sa ‘decline’?

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 14
6.47K
267
48
Chapter 14

I heaved a deep breath. Masyadong mabilis lumipas ang mga araw na parang kahapon
lang pasko pa, tapos mamaya bagong taon na. It has been two days since that
conversation of the four of us happened.

I agreed.

Wala nang nangyaring pag-uusap sa amin ni kuya matapos ang senaryong ‘yon. He’s
always in his office. Hindi niya na rin ako binibisita kagaya ng dati at hindi na
rin siya dumadaan sa kwarto para halikan ako sa noo pagkauwi at pag-alis niya ng
bahay. Sila mama naman, kahit nandirito na sa resthouse, buong atensiyon nila ay
nasa negosyo.

My monologue was cut when mama suddenly slammed my door open. “Get up, Vielle.
We’ll go to chruch. The mass will start at exactly seven in the evening.”

Tumango lang ako dito at ngumiti. Lumabas naman kaagad siya habang ako ay tumingin
sa digital clock na nasa night-stand. May simba pala bago matapos ang taon, siguro
kailangan ko na ring isimba ang sarili ko sa sobrang dami ng kasalanan ko.

Bumangon ako sa kama at nag-inat ng katawan. Nagtungo ako sa closet at pumili muna
ng susuotin ko bago ako maligo para mas mapadali ang galaw ko. It’s already five-
thirty, seven ang misa.
I choose to wear the peach body-con dress with length that is four inches above my
knee. Kinuha ko rin ang puting high shoes ko at puting medyas at kapwa nilapag ito
sa kama. Hinubad ko muna ang suot kong mga kwentas, ang nasa leeg at kanang anklet
ko.

Nilapag ko ito sa ibabaw ng dress at nag-abot ng puting tuwalya bago pumasok sa

loob ng banyo. Hindi na ako nagtaka pa nang mapansin kong handa na ang bathtub ko
at gatas pa ang
nakalagay. Nilapitan ko ito at inamoy. I smiled automatically as I smelled the
scent of lilac along the very white milk tub.

Hinubad ko lahat ng aking suot na damit at binasa ko muna ang aking katawan bago
lumusob sa tub. I tied my hair into a bun as I laid my head on the edge of tub.
Pinikit ko ang aking mga mata at ang mukha ni kuya ang nakikita ko.

His smiling face. How he set or clench his jaw when he’s mad. How he whispered
sweet and heart melting words towards me.

Naidilat ko ang aking mata at napatitig sa maliit na chandelier dito sa loob ng

banyo. Wala sa sarili akong napahawak sa aking dibdib nang maramdaman kong pumitik
ito ng mabilis. Mariin kong pinikit ang aking mga mata at kinagat ang aking ibabang
labi.

Goddamn it, heart! Shut it.

Bigla kong naalala ang mga senaryo nila kuya at Taliah na nakakapang-init ng dugo.
Bwisit!

Mabilis lamang ang plano kong magbabad sa bathtub na dapat sana ay matagal. I
showered and immediately went out of the bathroom. Dumiretso ako sa harap ng vanity
dresser saka hinanap ang blower at tinuyo ang aking buhok. I also curled the tips
of my hair and sprayed some hair color na hindi ko alam na nadala ko pala from
Manila.

I applied some toner and serum on my face and put on some light make up such as
foundation and eyeliner. I hate heavy make-ups. Lipstick and powder is just enough
for this kind of face, ngunit nasa mood akong mag-ayos ngayon.

Sinuot ko na ang body-con dress ko na may tie sa dulong bahagi, in case if I like
it higher. Sinuot ko na rin ang necklace na bigay ni kuya sa leeg ko, at ang
necklace na bigay ni Kiyo sa ankle ko bago ako nagsuot ng medyas at sapatos.
Bahagya kong hinila ang tie ng dress para mas angatan pa ito at tumungo ako sa
harap ng salamin. I pouted my lips.

“You’re a goddess, Vielle,” I praised myself and smiled.

Kinuha ko ang isang shoulder bag na kulay peach din at doon ko sinilid ang wallet,
phone, at perfume. Muli na naman akong tumungo sa salamin at doon na nag-spray ng
perfume. I also took some mirror shots on my phone to post it on IG. Matagal-tagal
na rin since I opened my social media accounts.

Sumilip ako night-stand para tignan ang oras. And it’s already six-fifteen, sobrang
tagal
ko palang nag-ayos.

Umupo ako sa kama at binuksan ang aking IG para sana mag post nang unang bumungad
sa feed ko ang post ni kuya. My forehead suddenly creased after seeing his post and
my heart skips a beat.
@DJMartinez: My girl

Napanganga ako sa caption habang nakatitig sa litratong nakakasigurado kong ako. I

am facing the wide sea with my hands on my waist. Hindi ko alam kung kailan niya
ito kinunan. I’m oblivious about him taking pictures of me.

I proceed to the comment section at mas lalo pang napaawang ang aking labi nang
mabasa ko ang mga comments, mostly from his flings. Nakita ko pa ang comment ni
Taliah

@Its_TallyTaliah: Omg! I love you, hubby! I appreciate it!

Napaangat ang kilay ko. I’m certain the girl on the picture was me. Was she
proclaiming it was her? Woah? Is she that desperate?

“Vielle, bumaba ka na!” I heard mama yelled.

Pinost ko muna ang mga dapat kong i-post bago ako tumayo bitbit ang aking bag. I
glanced myself for the last time before proceeding out of the room. Naglakad-takbo
ako pababa at naabutan ko si mama at papa sa sala. Mama is wearing a blue flowery
dress and a white two-inches heels, while papa is wearing a white polo and black
pants paired with black shoes.

“My baby is very pretty,” sambit ni papa na ikinatikhim ni mama. Papa chuckled. “Of
course, mas maganda ang mama mo, ‘di ba, anak?”

I smiled widely and nodded. Nakakatuwa. Kahit sobrang busy nila sa kanilang
negosyo, they still manage to find time for each other so that their bond won’t
fade. Such a great attitude from a Martinez clan. I’m proud of them.

“Halika na, Vielle,” saad ni mama at naunang naglakad. “Marami-rami ang magsisimba
ngayon kaya kung ayaw niyong nakatayo buong misa, magmadali kayo.”

Lumapit ako kay papa at kinawit ang aking braso sa kanya. I murmured. “There she
goes nagging, again.”

Tumawa lang si papa ng mahina at sumunod na kay mama. Tinanggal ko kaagad ang braso
ko kay papa para mapagbuksan niya ng pinto si mama sa passenger seat habang ako ay
dumiretso sa back-seat.

“Susunod nalang daw si Daze sa simbahan,” ani ni mama nang makapasok si papa sa
driver’s seat.

“Okay,” papa responded.

Tinignan ako ni mama sa rearview mirror. “Hindi ba’t masyadong maikli ang damit mo,
Vielle?”

Ngumiti ako ng matamis dito. I leaned on her seat and kissed her cheeks. “It’s
fashion, ma.”

Inismiran lang ako ni mama ngunit hindi na umangal, kita ko naman ang bahagyang
pag-iling ni papa na may ngiti at pinaandar na ang sasakyan. Prente naman akong
sumandal sa aking kinauupuan habang naglalaro sa phone ko ng piano tiles.

Mabilis lang ang naging biyahe, mukhang hindi uso dito ang traffic. Malapit lang
din naman ang simbahan kaya agad kaming nakarating.
As soon as papa parked the car, mom stepped out followed by papa. Inayos ko muna
ang buhok ko bago ako bumaba. Nadatnan ko namang nakahawak si mama sa braso si papa
na ikinasimangot ko. Inuhan pa akong lumambitin kay papa, e.

Nakasunod lamang ako sa kanila at paminsan-minsang tumitingin sa aking pambisig na

relo. I can feel some stares of people but I just didn’t mind them. Normal naman na
siguro sa kanila ang makita ang mga turista na nagsisimba, ‘di ba?

Papasok na sana kami nang biglag umugong ang phone ko. Hindi naman ako napansin
nila mama at papa kaya tuloy-tuloy lang ito sa paglalakad papasok ng simbahan.
Tumigil naman ako sa paglalakad at nagtungo sa pwesto na wala masyadong ingay.

“Hello?”

“Hey, Vielle,” bati mula sa kabilang linya.

My forehead knotted. “Lucy?”

“Grabe, kakauwi ko pa lang dito sa Satorini, kinalimutan mo na ako.” Pagda-drama

nito na ikinaling ko.

“Where did you get my number?” I asked with a smile while looking around. “And
kailan ka pa umuwi? Hindi ka man lang nagpaalam.”

I heard him chuckled. “The last time we met, then kinabukasan flight ko na. Sorry I
wasn’t able to contact you. Nahirapan pa ako sa panghihingi ng number mo. And
anyway, babalik rin naman ako diyan kasi may kasalan sa January four.”

I keep nodding my head as if he’s  in front of me. “Alright.” I glance on the

church. “Anyways, I have to hang up now. Magsisimula na yata ang misa, and advance
happy new year!”

“Alright, happy new year, Vielle.”

We both said goodbye’s before we hang up the call. Naglakad naman ako patungo sa
entrance ng simbahan nang may lumapit sa aking isang matipunong lalaki na sa tingin
ko’y foreigner. Base sa kanyang tindig at pustura, an american citizen.

“Uhm.. Hi, I’m Emilio,” pagpapakilala nito.

I smiled. “Hello. I’m Vielle,” I replied.

Bahagya itong yumuko at kinamot ang kanyang batok. He has the looks, okay? It’s
just that, he’s not my type. “Can I get your number and know your social media
accounts?”

I chuckled inside my head. Well, what do I expect? “I’m sorry, my mobile number is
too private. But you can contact me on instagram.”

His face lit up. “Great!” Hinugot nito ang kanyang phone at sa tingin ko’y binuksan
ang kanyang IG app. “Here.”

Tinanggap ko ang phone niya at tinipa doon ang instagram account ko. I clicked
follow and gave it back to him. “I’ll follow you back later.” I winked a him.

Ahh, I guess I can find fling for... hmm... 3 hours?

Napasinghap ako nang may brasong humapit sa bewang ko at ang pamilyar na amoy na
nanunuot sa ilong ko. “What’s your business with my wife?”
Kulang nalang ay mapanganga kaming pareho ni Emilio sa sinabi ni kuya. Hindi ko rin
makita sa mukha niyang nagbibiro siya. His expression were plain and blank, but his
eyes were dark and shotting glares towards Emilio.

Tumikhim si Emilio. “I’m sorry, I thought she’s single.”

Oh no, hindi ko pa nga nalalandi ‘yun, e! Mahinang maktol ko nang humingi ng

pasensiya si Emilio at lumiban na.

Hinarap ako ni kuya na may matalim na tingin na ikinairap ko lang. Siguro kung
dati, matatakot ako. Pero nabubwisit ako sa kanya. Ikaw ba naman hindi pansinin ng
dalawang araw tapos wala pang valid reason, hindi ka pa magtatampo?

“Why are you wearing short dress?” he asked.

Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay. “This is fashion, kuya. Hindi naman masyadong maikli.”
Inirapan ko ito.

He also rolled his eyes on me in a very manly way and took off his business suit.
Muli niyang kinabig ang katawan ko palapit sa kanya at agad na pinalibot ang suit
sa beywang ko para matabunan ang hita ko.

“You’re showing too much of my property,” he murmured something I can’t hear. 

Matapos niyang maitali ang suit ay tinignan ako nito sa mata. “I told you not to
talk to other male specimen other than me and papa.”

I chuckled nonchalantly and rolled my eyes. “Ano ba gusto mong gawin ko? Natural na
makikipag-usap ako sa mga lalaki dahil kabastusan ang hindi pagsagot kapag
kinakausap ka.”

“Diana...”

Hinilot ko aking sintido. “And then what? Pagbabawalan mo ako? You ignored me, damn
it.”

Hinawakan ako ni kuya sa pulso at hinila sa gilid ng daanan. “You didn’t followed
what I told you.”

Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay. “I’m getting married anyway, and you too. Stop acting
like I need to follow every decision you'll make kasi in the first place kuya lang
naman kita.”

Hindi pa ito nakakasagot ay nauna na akong pumasok sa loob ng simbahan na may bigat
sa aking kalooban.

All right, it’s quite painful.

--

Natapos ang buong misa na wala akong gana. Hindi nga ako nakinig sa pari. I was
just both silent and not in the mood to listen.

“Are you okay, babygirl?” tanong ni papa nang makalabas kami ng simbahan.

Tumango lang ako at ngumuso. “I’m not a babygirl anymore.”

“Daze, Vielle, let’s take pictures of you both,” sambit ni mama na may ngiti sa
labi na senigundahan ni papa.

“Take off that suit on your waist, Diana,” sita sa akin ni mama.

Napatingin ako kay kuya na tahimik lang. I took off the suit and gave it to papa
para walang sagabal sa pagkuha namin ng litrato. Malawak namang ngumiti si mama at
nagsabing ngumiti kami sa kamera.

Me and kuya were almost six-inches apart, very unlikely to the poses we made back
when were doing island hopping. Damn, we did even kiss!

“Bakit ang layo niyong dalawa? Daze akbayan mo ‘yang bunso mo,” saad ni mama na
ikinangiwi ko.

Bunso...

Naramdaman ko nalang ang braso ni kuya sa balikat ko. I forced myself to smile and
make a peace sign as the phone’s camera clicked. Agad akong dumistansiya kay kuya
at nag-aya
nang umuwi na sinang-ayunan ni papa.

“Vielle, kay Daze ka sumabay,” sambit ni papa at kumindat.

I can’t help but to chuckle. Para-paraan din ‘tong si papa para masolo si mama, e.

Tumango nalang ako kahit labag sa’king kalooban at tumungo sa sasakyan ni kuya. I
felt him followed. He alarmed his car and I opened the passenger’s seat. Pumasok
ako sa loob at sinarado ang pinto. Kinabit ko ang aking seatbelt saka sumandal sa
aking kinauupuan.

My brother entered the car and also fastened his seatbelt. Pinikit ko nalang ang
mga mata ko para maiwasan ang nakakailang na aura sa loob ng sasakyan.

“You really have plan on ignoring me, aren’t you?” I heard him asked.

Hindi ko nalang ito pinansin at mas pinag-igihan ang pagpapanggap na tulog.

Naramdaman ko naman ang pag-andar ng sasakyan na ikinaluwag ng dibdib ko.

But moments later, I felt him stopped the car. Kasunod nito ang paghawak niya sa
chin ko dahilan para maidilat ko ang nakapikit kong mga mata. Hindi pa man ako
nakakapag-react nang siilin niya ako ng halik.

“K-kuya...” I breathed.

He murmured some curses and I heard a clicking sound. Masyadong mabilis ang mga
pangyayari nang bigla niyang angatin ang katawan ko at walang kahirap-hirap na
ideniposito sa backseat.

Damn, how did he do that?!

He followed me on the backseat. Dahil sa pagkabigla, hindi ko man lang namalayang

nakaangat na pala ang hem ng body-con dress na suot ko. Revealing my groin.

“I told you many times you’ll get severely punished if you disobey me,” he murmured
and I felt his warm hand caressing my inner thigh. “And you still did. Now, accept
your punishment, Diana.” He leaned in to claim my lips for an ardent kiss.

Damn, kakaputol pa lang ng sungay namin sa simbahan, tutubo na ulit.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 15
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Chapter 15

I tried pushing him but he's stronger than me. He bit my lower lip making me gasp
and he took it as an advantage to slid his tongue on my mouth and fought with mine.
Ramdam ko rin ang mainit niyang kamay na hinihimas ang inner thigh ko. I guess he
loves rubbing my thigh.

"Hmm..." My sentence would turn into a hum as he keep on sucking my tongue

His lips left mine, tracing my neck to my collarbone, until the valley of my
mountains. Nagtagal ang labi niya doon habang ang kamay niyang hinihimas ang hita
ko kanina ay pisil-pisil na ang dibdib ko ngayon. My hand wrapped unto his hair and
pulled it as he squeezed my breast.

"K-kuya..."

"Daze," he muttered while nipping the skin on the valley of my mountain. "I told
you to call me Daze."

Napasinghap ako nang walang seremonya niyang hinila ang balakang ko dahilan para
umangat ang hem ng dress na suot ko. Mas lalong namilog ang mga mata ko nang
lumuhod siya sa harap ng magkahiwalay kong hita. I was about to cover my central
part but his hands moved damn fast as it quickly captured mine.

He placed my hand on my tummy. Gamit ang malayang kamay, itinuntong niya ang paa ko
sa upuan na halos magdikit na ang aking pang-upo at ang aking paa. Because of my
position, he has now the perfect view of my center part.

"W-what are you— ohh..." My sentence turned into a moan when he flicked his finger
on my séx, lightly.

He look up at me. "This is just a warm up for your heavy punishment, Diana."

The finger he used to flick on my mound, were now tracing my labia. Kinagat ko ang
aking ibabang labi upang pigilang kumawala ang isang ungol. We're inside his car
for fuck's sake! Who knows kung may taong dadaanan at marinig ang ungol ko?

"Hmm..." My brother hummed as he leaned in and the warmness of his lips touches my
private part making me sucked my breath out of control. "I like it when you moan."

"K-kuya... fuck, Daze!" Napasinghap ako nang walang alinlangan niyang pinunit ang
panty na suot ko.

"It hinders me upon seeing paradise, love." He inhaled and exhaled. "Damn it!"

Without further ado, his lips brushed my womanhood. Wala sa sarili akong napahawak
sa kanyang buhok nang maramdaman kong dinidilaan na niya ang pagkababae ko. I bit
my lip to supress my moans as he started lapping my mound like a freaking food.

Pinalibot niya ang kanyang braso sa aking binti at mas hinila ang balakang ko
palapit sa kanyang mukha. Hindi ko rin maiwasang angatin ang aking balakang sa
tuwing sinusungkil-sungkil niya ang clit ko.
"Fuck! Ahh..." Wala sa sarili akong napaungol nang biglang kinagat ni kuya ang cl-
toris ko.

I felt his thumb making circles on my clitorial hood making the anticipation I'm
feeling increase. My mouth formed into an 'o' when he suddenly sucked my clit.
Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa kanyang buhok at nagpakawala ng ungol.

"D-daze... ahh..." I moaned and threw my head backwards as waves of pleasure rushed
through me.

Ngunit sabay kaming natigilan nang mag-ring ang phone ko na nasa front seat.
Tumigil si kuya sa pagdila ng pagkababae ko at inabot ang phone upang tignan kung
sino ang tumatawag.

After looking at my screen, he look up at me and whispered, "It's mama."

Mabilis pa sa alas kwatro kong kinuha ang phone sa kanyang kamay at agad na sinagot
ang tawag nang walang pagdadalawang isip.

"H-hello, ma?" mahinang usal.

"Nasaan na kayo?" bungad nitong tanong.

I gasp when my brother sucked my mound and licked it without any warning. Agad
naman akong napatakip sa aking bibig upang pigilan ang sarili kong umungol.

"P-papunta na po k-kami, m-ma..." Napakapit ako sa buhok ni Daze nang biglaan

niyang patigasin ang kanyang dila.

I keep heaving a deep breath as our mother keep on talking on the other line. My
brother keep on sucking and licking me, and to be honest, it's really not helping!

"...but make sure you make it home early, Vielle. We still need to prepare for this
twelve midnight." I heard mama.

"Y-yes, ma." Napalunok ako at humugot ng malalim na hininga. "W-we will."

"Bakit ka nauutal? Ayos ka lang ba?" she asked.

Mariin kong kinagat ang ibabang labi ko nang muli na namang sipsipin ni kuya ang
pagkababae ko. "O-opo. I need to hang up, ma. Pauwi na kami."

With that, agad kong pinatay ang tawag at binitawan ang phone. My hand landed on my
brother's hair and gripped it tightly as I release my moan of insanity. Pinalibot
ko ang aking binti sa balikat niya at mas pinagdiinan siya sa pagkababae ko.

"Fuck, Daze. Ohh..." I keep cursing until I felt the building sensation on my
tummy.

I felt Daze's lick became more aggressive. Bumilis ang ginagawang pagdila nito na
nagbigay sa'kin ng hindi maipaliwanag na sensasyon. I cursed out loud when I felt
it coming out.

"Fuck! Malapit na ako," I breathlessly muttered. "Ahhh..."

First lick. Second lick. On his third lick, I released that sensation I was feeling
seconds ago. I let out a moan as I spasm in ecstasy.

Parang nawalan ng lakas ang katawan ko at lumupaypay ako sa aking kinauupuan. I

felt Daze still licking me and it's sending me tingling sensations on my system.
Wala sa sarili kong
hinawakan ang buhok niya at bahagyang tinulak ang ulo niya palayo sa kaselanan ko.

He look up at me. "You taste delicious, love. I would love licking you every
morning."

Ramdam ko ang pag-iinit ang aking pisngi dahilan upang mag-iwas ako ng tingin.
Mariin ko ring naipikit ang aking mga mata.

"T-this is wrong," mahinang usal ko.

He held my chin and locked my gaze with his. "This is not wrong."

I felt his finger start tracing my feminine part. Bahagya ko itong sinipa. "L-let's
go home. I'm tired."

"We're just starting, love." He leaned in and captured my lips. There I tasted the
salty taste on his mouth. "We're just starting."

--

"Ilagay mo rin ito sa mesa," pag-uutos ni mama na kaagad kong sinunod.

Tinanggap ko ang inabot niyang dalawang putahe sa nagtungo sa dining room para
ilapag sa mesa. Matapos ay tumingin ako sa wall clock at napabuntong hininga. The
clock is ticking eleven-thirty in the evening. It's almost midnight kaya busy na
kaming lahat.

The memories on the car suddenly assaulted my brain cells. Mariin akong napahawak
sa back rest ng dining chair at mariing pinikit ang aking mga mata. I can still
feel his tongue on my sensual part and it sucks!

Matapos ang nangyari kanina, umuwi kami na parang wala lang. Damn, I don't even
wanna mention that. At parang ako lang din ang nababagabag sa nangyari kanina. Daze
— yes, I prefer calling him Daze now. He was acting like nothing happened! Like he
wasn't affected! Damn, how did he do that?!

Naidilat ko ang aking mga mata nang marinig ko si mama. "Oh, bakit ka nakapikit?"

Agad akong umiling. "W-wala po, ma."

She eyed me and the back of her hand touches my forehead. "Nilalagnat ka ba? Bakit
ka
namumula?" malumanay nitong tanong at nilapag ang dala nitong cake sa mesa.

Napangiti ako at umiling. "Wala po, ma. Medyo masakit lang po ang ulo ko pero kaya
ko naman po."

"Uminom ka kaagad ng gamot pagkatapos nating kumain. Matulog ka ng maaga pagkatapos

ng alas-dose," pagbibilin nito.

Tumango ako at niyakap ito. She ordered me to call everyone, including manang
Bebang, bina and mang Jose. Mama wants to celebrate and welcome new year with all
of us together. Minsan lang talaga strikta si mama.

Naabutan ko sila manang Bebang sa indoor pool na busy sa pag-aayos ng upuan. Dito
daw sila papa at kuya mag-iinuman, kasama si mang Jose.
"Uhm, manang Bebang." Tikhim ko. "Nasaan po sila papa?"

Nag-angat ito ng tingin sa'kin. "Nasa labas sila ng bahay, senyorita. Naghahanda sa
mga paputok pagsapit ng alas dose."

I nodded. "Pasok na din po kayo. Kakain na po tayo."

She just smiled and nodded habang ako ay tumalikod na at binaybay ang daanan
palabas ng bahay. There I saw my father and brother. They are talking in a hush
voices while fixing the fireworks and other stuffs.

"Pa," tawag pansin ko kay papa na ikinalingon nilang dalawa. "Maghahapunan na po

tayo."

"Susunod din kami, Elle," sagot ni papa.

I just forced a smile when my brother eyed me with a serious face. I gulped and
turned my back and walk inside the house. Palihim ko namang sinapo ang dibdib ko
nang maramdaman ko ang malakas na pintig nito.

"Oh, nasaan ang papa mo?" tanong ni mama nang makapasok ako ng kusina. "And anyway,
I already put some medicine for headaches on your room's nightstand. Inumin mo
'yun."

I nodded. "Susunod na rin daw po sila. At, ma, okay na po ako. Siguro itutulog ko
lang din 'to."

Saktong pagkatapos kong magsalita ay siyang pagpasok nila papa sa kusina. Mother
ordered us to take our seats. Manang Bebang refused at first kasi hindi daw sila
sanay makisalo sa kanilang amo.

"Come on, manang. Maupo kayo at sabay tayong kakain." Mama smiled.

Walang nagawa si manang kundi sundin si mama. Father said grace before we began
eating. At habang kumakain, tahimik lamang kami ni kuya. Nasa mahabang mesa kami
kaya ang nasa magkabilang dulo ay si mama at papa. Katabi ko naman si kuya at
kaharap namin sila manang Bebang, manong Jose, at Bina.

While we're eating, a warm hand suddenly touched my bare legs. Napalingon ako kay
kuya at napansing seryoso itong kumakain gamit ang kanang kamay. Tinabig ko ang
kamay niyang nasa hita ko ng palihim at nagpatuloy sa pagkain.

Muli na namang lumapat ang kamay nito sa hita ko. This time, he was caressing it.
Goodness. Suot ko ngayon ay isang blue dress na hanggang kalahati ng hita ang haba,
and it's giving him the priveledge to touch my legs!

Paulit-ulit kong tinatabig ang kamay niya ngunit paulit-ulit niya rin itong
binabalik. I threw him sideway glares before finally giving up. Kita ko ang
bahagyang pag-angat ng labi nito habang kumakain. His hand is now touching my inner
thigh, unmoving.

Matapos naming kumain, nagtungo sila papa, Daze, at mang Jose sa indoor pool upang
doon mag-inuman habang inaantay sumapit ang alas dose. Habang ako ay tumulong
magligpit ng mga pinagkainan. Si Bina ang naghugas ng mga pinggan habang ako ay
pinaakyat na ni mama sa taas upang uminom ng gamot.

Pasimple akong sumimangot.

Wala naman akong sakit, e!

--

As the clock ticks twelve, I heard different noises coming from fireworks and such.
Hindi na ako bumaba upang batiin sila. Nagbihis na rin ako ng pantulog which is a
red satin shorts and a red sleeveless satin shirt.

Humiga ako sa kama at inantay lumipas ang isang oras bago ko napag-isipang bumaba
at kumupit
ng can beers sa ref. Wala ng tao, siguro nasa indoor pool sila, nag-iinuman.

"Puta," mahinang usal ko nang wala akong mahagilap na beer sa loob ng ref.

Bumaba ang paningin ko sa lower part ng ref at napansin ang dalawang beer na
magkadikit. Luminga-linga pa ako bago ko ito kinuha at maingat na naglakad pabalik
sa silid na inuukupa ko.

I closed the door behind me and walked towards the bed. Binuksan ko ang isang lata
ng beer at walang sabi-sabing tinunga ito hanggang sa maubos. I dropped myself on
the bed and closed my eyes. Bigla kong naalala ang imahe ni Daze habang dinidilaan
ang kaselanan ko.

And suddenly, my body reacted. Binuksan ko ang aking mga mata at bumangon. Inabot
ko naman ang isang lata ng beer at tinunga ang laman nito. Napangiwi ako sa mapait
na lasa na bumalatay sa lalamunan ko. I cleared my throat and laid back on my bed.

"Fuck!" I cursed out loud when my memories flashed what happened on the car.

Dinilat ko ang aking mga mata nang makaramdam ako ng kakaiba sa'king katawan. I'm
starting to feel the tingling sensations on my very sensitive parts. Nakakaramdam
na rin ako ng init na hindi ko alam kung bakit ngunit napakapamilyar ng
nararamdaman ko. It's like I've been to this before, I just can't remember when.

Dahil sa nararamdaman kong init, nilakasan ko ang aircon at nagpaypay sa sarili.

Dumapa ako sa kama nang makaramdam ako ng pagkakiliti sa mga maseselang parte ng
katawan ko.

Natigilan ako nang bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Daze. I look at him with my eyes
half-hooded. Nahihilo at naiinitan na ako, dagdag pa ang pagiging sensitibo ng
katawan ko.

"A-anong ginagawa mo dito?" I asked as memories from the car flashed inside my
head.

And the weird thing is... I felt needy.

Tinignan ako nito gamit ang mapupungay at malamig niyang mga mata. "I'm here to
take what's mine."

The last string of sanity that I was holding have gone for good as he took advance
steps to my direction and claimed my lips. I held his shoulder as my body gave in
to the heat that my brother had.

"Daze," I moan when he bit my lower lip and asking for an entrance.

I opened my mouth, giving him the access to slid his tongue and fought with mine. I
felt the soft mattress pressed on my back as he laid me down.

Kinubabawan ako nito hinawakan ang aking bewang. My arms encircled on his neck,
pulling him more closer for the kiss. We are fighting for dominance.

His kisses went down on my neck. He suck, nip, and bit the skin of my neck while
his hand were busy caressing my inner thigh. Bumaba naman ang kamay ko sa matigas
niyang dibdib habang ang isa kong kamay ay nakahawak sa kanyang buhok.

"Tell me what you feel," he muttered while kissing my neck.

I bit my lip. "N-naiinitan ako."

"You drank my last beers," he whispered and suddenly sucked my lower lip. "And that
is your punishment."

I let out a long moan when his hand fondled my bossom and squeezed it. I heard him
chuckled but I'm busy entertaining the pleasure. Dala ng pagkasensitibo ng katawan
ko, konting haplos lang ay nadadagdagan ang init na nararamdaman ko.

"Damn, I love your moans," he whispered. "But someone might hear you."

Napasinghap ako nang punitin niya ang damit na suot ko at walang pasabing tinali
ito sa bibig ko. He also used the remaining fabric to tie my both wrist and tied it
on the headboard. My moans were supressed by the cloth that was covering my mouth.

I saw satisfaction filled his eyes as he look at me. He leaned in and sucked my
breast. Nipping and sucking it like a hungry baby.

Napapaliyad ako sa tuwing kinakagat niya ang nipple ko. He inserted the hand that
he used on caressing my thigh inside my underware and his sinful fingers began
tracing my labia.

Damn, I can feel my panty soaking wet!

"I want you to know that you..." he sucked the skin on my breast and bit it.
"...belong..." I moaned when he suddenly inserted a digit on my vágina. "...to me."

Hindi na ako nakaangal pa nang simulan nitong galawin ang kanyang daliri sa loob
ko. All I can just do is to moan, part my legs, and bend my back backwards as I
felt the pleasurd brought by his sinful finger.

"Hmm," I moaned when he inserted another digit.

I sucked my breath when he suddenly took off my short and now I'm only with my
panties on. Mas lalo akong napasinghap nang punitin niya ito gamit lamang ang isang
kamay. The movement of his fingers became fast and my moans got louder. I badly
want to grip his hair but I can't for my hands were tied.

I felt a building sensation on my tummy as he keep on moving his taut and sinful
fingers. Mas binuka ko pa ang binti ko at nagpabaling-baling ang aking ulo.

Malapit na ako...

I felt the tightening of my vágina walls and I know he is, too. Mas bumilis ang
galaw ng mga daliri nito.

The moment I'm about to explode, he withdraw his fingers. Ramdam ko ang pananakit
ang aking puson habang pinapanood siyang hubarin ang kanyang damit at iba pa niyang
kasuotan.

My eyes almost went out from its socket watching how his dick sprang out as he took
off his boxer. He chuckled and leaned to remove the cloth that was covering my
mouth.

"W-will that fit?" I asked.

I mean, look, it's length looks like it's about nine and a half inches. The veins
on his shaft were telling me it's a monster. It's dangerous.

"Don't worry, it will." He smiled. "It will hurt a little, love."

He spread my legs and placed it on his shoulders. His warm hand touches my tummy
and his other hand hold its shaft and guiding it to enter me.

Napakapit ako sa tali ng mahigpit nang makaramdam ako ng sakit. The piercing pain
was unbearable. I can't help not to sob and murmured some curses.

"M-masakit, D-daze..." Tears starts stresming my cheeks while saying those words.

Yumuko ito at hinalikan ng labi ko. I almost yelp in pain when he suddenly thrusted
inside me full. His kiss were supressing my moan of pain. I heard him moaned but
not as loud as mine.

He didn't move. Bumaba ang halik niya sa leeg ko at paangat sa tenga ko. "I'm
sorry..."

Panay ang paghikbi ko. I feel like I was cut in half. Sobrang sakit na gusto ko
nalang patigilin siya.

"Are you okay now? God, sorry I hurted you," he said in a sincere voice.

I bit my lip and whispered, "Fuck, I feel like I was cut in half." And I also feel
so full.

It took us a moment of silence before I spoke. "M-move."

Andito na kami, e. My hymen were already broken and I was penetrated with the man I
never thought would be my first.

"You sure?" He asked.

I nodded. "If you don't move, then just withdraw—"

Hindi ko pa man natatapos ang sasabihin ko nang gumalaw na ito. He began thrusting
in and out and a moan of pain and pleasure escaped on my mouth.

Inayos niya ang pagkakatanday ng binti ko sa kanyang balikat at mabilis na umulos

sa ibabaw ko. He placed his thumb on my lips and I sucked it to contain my moans.

"Good, universe. You're so good," he groaned and thrust faster.

"Ohh..." I moaned when he hit a spot inside of me. "Fuck! Daze, ahh..."

I think he felt it for he keep hitting the same spot again and again. I just keep
sucking his thumb. He used his free hand to play with my cl-t as his shaft keeps on
moving in and out of me.

We both moan and groaned as he continue moving. Ramdam ko ang pagtagaktak ng pawis
sa sintido ko.
"Damn, you're so tight," he murmured and leaned in to kiss my lips.

He cupped my breast and squeezed it. Patuloy lamang ito sa paggalaw hanggang sa
makaramdam ako ng namumuong sensasyon sa aking kaibuturan.

"F-faster..." I said.

He just moaned and followed my command. He move faster and deeper inside of me.
Napapikit naman ako habang nakikipag-espadahan ng dila sa kanya.

"I-I'm near... ahh..." I muttered.

"Come with me, love," he whisper.

A few more thrust and I release the hot liquid that was building inside my tummy.
Ramdam ko rin ang paglaki ng alaga ni kuya sa loob ko.

He withdraw his shaft on me and masturbated above me. White liquids spurted on my
tummy and breast.

And I just realized...

Damn, we just fucked!

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 16
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Chapter 16

"Any questions regarding Miss Martinez's presentation?" the panel asked while
looking around, eyeing for my classmates.

Umiling sila at nag-thumbs up pa ang iilan na ikinangiti ko. The panels clapped
with a smile on their faces while glancing at my power point presentation.

Well, today is the fourth day of January, back to school. Sa unang araw pa lang ng
pasukan, kinakailangan na naming i-presenta ang ginawa naming thesis. Mamayang
hapon naman ay kailangan din namin mag-present sa isang subject para sa IATA Codes
na minimorya namin. Mabuti nalang walang pasok mamayang hapon.

"Congratulations, Miss Martinez," saad ng isang pannel at muli akong nginitian.

I just nodded and smiled. Bumalik ako sa aking upuan at agad namang pumalit ang
power point presentation ng kaklase kong si Fiona na simula nung tumuntong ako ng
kolehiyo ay pinag-iinitan na ako. And who would have thought na magiging kaklase ko
ang babaeng 'to?

Before she proceeded in front, she took a quick glance at me and rolled her eyes.
Mahina akong napailing at prenteng sumandal sa aking upuan.

I have no friends. Kaya hindi na ako magtataka kung walang magtatanong sa akin ng
kung ano-ano matapos gawin ang isang bagay. Mas mabuti nang ganito. Hindi ko naman
kailangan sila dahil may pamilya ako. I don't need friends. I just don't.

Bumuntong hininga ako at pinanood ang presentation ni Fiona na kasalukuyang

nakangiti ng malawak habang nakatingin sa mga panels, lalong-lalo na kay Professor
Micheal. Ang natitirang may hitsurang professor sa buong campus dahil 'yung iba ay
taken na.

Nangunot ang noo ko nang dumapo ang paningin ko sa aking arm desk. There's a blue
sticky note. Kinuha ko ito at binasa ang laman.

'Hey, I'll wait for you outside your campus.

- A.

Nangunot ang noo ko habang nagbabasa. Who the hell is A?

My mind drifted into the person I never talked to since the night we shared. Fuck,
I can't imagine myself talking to him anymore, nor having the guts of facing him!
Wala na akong mukhang maihaharap kay kuya. Damn. Ni-tingnan siya ay hindi ko kaya.
Parang nanliliit ako sa sarili ko dahil hinayaan kong mangyari 'yun. Nagpadala ako
sa tukso.

It made me wonder what the hell is he thinking at the moment. Nakakahiya na. Parang
gusto ko nalang ibaon ang sarili ko ng buhay sa lupa.

"Earth to miss Martinez, are you listening?" tanong ni Professor Micheal na

nagpabalik sa akin sa reyalidad.

I blinked several times and look at his direction. He was eyeing me with concern
that made me feel uncomfortable. I only remembered my second year college life
where he confessed his feelings for me. Yes, Professor Micheal told me that he
likes me. But sadly, he's not my type. Kahit professor pa siya, ayoko sa kanya.

Tumikhim ako. "I'm fine, Professor."

I saw Fiona rolled her eyes. "Hindi ka kasi nakikinig."

"Nakikinig ako, Fiona. I was just thinking of something," I replied in monotone.

God, how I much I miss having small trashtalks with her.

"And what kind of something?" taas kilay nitong tanong na ikinangisi ko.

"Something that doesn't involves you and it's none of your business," I replied
with a
sweet smile on my lips, not minding the stares coming from my classmates.

Tumikhim ang isang pannel na si Professor De Luna. "Cut the childish acts, Miss
Martinez and Miss Esteban. You are not high schoold kids anymore."

Sa sinabi ng prof ay humingi kami ng paumanhin bago muling nagpatuloy si Fiona sa

kanyang thesis presentation. Habang ako naman ay nakinig nalang sa kanya. Morning
session lang kami ngayon kasi mamayang hapon ay may paghahandaan daw sila. And I
don't bother caring about it.

Madali lamang natapos si Fiona sa kanyang presentation. May mga nagtanong na agad
din naman niyang sinagot. Maybe one of the reasons why she hates me because I look
like a threat to her title which is suma cum-laude. Well, I am the running suma
cum-laude. I must keep it that way. I am looking forward on having the condo unit
my brother owns in Batangas.

"Dismissed," sambit ng huling subject na'min.

I stood up and yawn. Iniunat ko ang aking katawan at pinulot ang mga gamit kong
nagkalat sa desk. Kasama na roon ang sticky notes na galing sa taong ang codename
ay A at mga highlighters ko. Even my doodled papers and sratches were on my desk
and it took me a moment on fixing everything.

Matapos kong magligpit ay sinukbit ko ang aking bag sa aking magkabilang balikat.
Palabas na sana ako nang may marinig akong usapan.

"May gwapo daw na naghihintay sa labas," sambit ng isang kaibigan ni Fiona.

I heard Fiona chuckled. "Looks like my boyfriend is here, eh?"

"May boyfriend ka, Fiona?" Nagsinghapan ang mga natitirang kaklase naming nandito
habang ako ay napairap ng palihim.

"Of course, I have!" May pagmamalaki sa tinig nito. "Hindi katulad ng iba diyan,
kahit professor papatulan para lang maging running as suma cum-laud," sambit nito
at pinagdidiinan pa ang huling mga salita.

I just took a deep breath and didn't mind her. Lumabas na lang ako sa classroom
namin at naglakad sa maingay na hallway. Ngunit nagtataka ako nang lahat sila ay
nagtakbuhan pababa ng hagdanan.

"Girl, dalian mo! Minsan lang tayo makakita ng gwapong nilalang na may sports car!"

"I heard boyfriend ni Fiona 'yun?"

"Dalawa sila, girl! Si Daze Martinez 'yung isa! Tara na!"

Bigla akong kinabahan nang marinig ko ang pangalan ni kuya. Ramdam ko ang
panlalambot ng tuhod ko sa narinig.

Is he really here?

Anong sadya niya sa labas?

Is he waiting for me?

Naputol ang mga katanungan sa isip ko nang may bumangga sa balikat ko habang pababa
ako ng hagdan. My hand immediately held the handrail as I look at the person who
meanfully did it. And it was Fiona Esteban.

"Tumabi ka sa daanan ko, Vielle. My boyfriend is waiting for me outside." She

raised her eyebrows on me and continue walking down the stairs and passed by me.

Humugot nalang ako ng malalim na hininga. I'm not in the mood to talk back. I'm
still thinking on why the hell by brother is outside? Who the hell is A?

Nagpatuloy ako sa paglalakad hanggang sa makarating ako ng main gate kung saan
maraming babae ang nakatambay. Some of them are taking pictures and some are
chattering in amusement. Hindi ko nalang ito pinansin nang biglang humawi ang
daanan at bumungad sa akin ang isang lalaking hindi pamilyar sa'king mga mata.

I look around only to see everyone eyeing me like I've won something very
honorable. Dumapo ang paningin ko kay Fiona na nasa gilid ng lalaki at masama ang
tingin sa akin.

He man walked up to me and lend his hand. "Hey, nice to meet you."
I look at him with a puzzled look on my damn face. Look, hindi ko siya kilala
ngunit parang pamilyar siya. Oh, hell. I can't find the exact words to spill it!

He chuckled. At sa mahinang pagtawa na 'yun, rinig na rinig ko ang mahinang tilian

ng mga kababaihan, lalong-lalo na ng mga bakla. "I'm Art. The one who owned the
sticky notes on your desk."

Sticky notes on my desk? Does he mean...

"You are the one who sent that?" I asked. "You're A?"

Ngumiti ito na siyang muling nagpatili sa mga estudyante. "Yes, I am."

Pinakatitigan ko ito. He has this foreigner look and posture. Mahahalata mo

talagang may lahi sila dahil sa kanyang anking itsura. I can say he's a beautiful
man.

But not as a beautiful man as my brother.

"Uhm, aren't you gonna accept my hands?" he asked.

Napakurap-kurap ako at mabilis na tinanggap ang kamay niya. "I'm Vielle. Nice to
meet you, too."

Nauna kong binitawan ang kamay niya at dumapo ang paningin ko sa isang
napakapamilyar na sasakyan. Fear suddenly rushed through me thinking that my
brother is inside of that car. Dagdag pa sa instinct ko ang sabi-sabing andito si
kuya.

"Of coure, you are Vielle," Art stated making me avert my eyes back to him. "You
are my fiancée."

Ang kaninang maingay na paligid ay biglang tumahimik. Isang nakakabinging

katahimikan. Lahat ay napasinghap at gulat na nakatingin sa aming dalawa.

My forehead creased. "A-ano?"

He smiled. "I'm your fiancé. Arthemis Ledwidge."

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang magsink-in sa utak ko ang sinabi niya.

He is my fiancé.

The one my mom talked about.

Pero hindi ba masyado pang maaga para bumisita siya? Sa Mayo pa ako magtatapos! I
also don't wanna live in together with him.

"You're shocked, I see." Kinamot nito ang kanyang batok. "Uhm, can we talk in other
place?"

I blinked several times before taking a quick glance on the car my eyex caught a
few moments ago. Kahit napakatinted ng sasakyan, alam kong nasa loob siya.

I took a deep breath before looking up at Art. Hanggang leeg niya lang ako kaya
kinakailangan ko pang tumingala para matignan siya. "S-sure."

He smiled. "Great!"
Inilahad nito ang kanyag mga kamay sa harap ko. Muli akong sumilip sa sasakyan ni
kuya bago tinanggap ang kamay ni Art.

All right. Iniiwasan ko siya. I should be avoiding him. Ayoko na siyang kausapin o
harapin man lang.

Art guided me towards his black sports car. I'm not into cars that's why I don't
effin' know what the hell is the name of his car. Pinagbuksan niya naman ako ng
pinto at pinapasok sa loob bago siya umikot at sumakay sa driver's seat.

"To where are we?" he asked as he fastened his seatbelt.

Napaisip naman ako. Saan nga ba? "Maybe in a coffee shop?"

He nodded and smiled while pulling the lever. "Okay, coffee shop it is."

--

"How did you able to find my school?" I asked while taking a sip on my cold coffee.

He smiled, and I find him cute whenever he did it. "I arrived this morning and
immediately went to your mansion. Tita told me to fetch you after school and told
me the exact address. I just find it on google map."

Tumango-tango ako. "Why did you agree on marrying me?" diretsahang tanong ko.

I saw him taken aback, but few seconds later, he smiled. "It was my parents
decision. And I also like you."

Mas lalong nangunot ang noo ko. "You like me when we still haven't met?"

"Yeah," he replied while nodding his head. "Actually, I really don't know why. But
the moment Tita showed me your photos, I feel like I want to hug you. And I think
that's the reason why I like you."

Tumango-tango ako. "You understand filipino?" I asked.

"Yes." Muli na naman itong ngumiti. "Mommy is a Filipino, and she often speak
tagalog language in our mansion."

I nodded again.

Wala akong masabi, ngunit magaan ang loob ko sa kanya. He's kind and I can sense
the gentleness in his every movements and words. Sobrang gaan ng makiramdam ko sa
kanya na ramdam ko na ang pagiging komportable ko sa kanya kahit hindi pa umabot ng
limang oras simula nang magkausap kami.

"So you're a tourism student?" he said while eyeing me on my uniform.

I just nodded. "Yeah, what about you?"

"Oh, I'm studying business management." He shrugged. "But my passion is

architecture."

Napatango ako at muling sumimsim sa aking kape. "Then why choosing business
management than architecture?"

He look at me. "I am their only heir for I have no sibling."

Tumango ako. Ganoon din siguro si Kuya. He wants to be a soldier, but he's the only
son of Martinez clan that's why he must accept the title of being heir of Martinez
clan's properties and power.

"What's your hobby?" pagbubukas ng topic nito.

I smiled. "Maybe overthinking. I've been fond of it lately."

Tumawa ito. "Really? That's a bad hobby then."

"Yeah." I chuckled. "But seriously, my hobby is just watching tv or eat. How about
you?"

"Hmm, playing video games and chess." He shrugged again. "I like swimming."

"Me, too." I smiled. "It relaxes the hell of me."

I saw him was about to open his mouth to speak when his phone vibrated. He excused
himself while I remained on my seat. Sumimsim ako sa aking kape at tumingin sa
labas ng bintana kung saan malaya kong nakikita ang mga taong naglalakad sa kalye
at mga sasakyang dumadaan.

Bigla kong naalaa ang sasakyan ni kuya sa labas ng campus kanina bago ako sumakay
sa sasakyan ni Art. My heart's ripping, but I came up to realize, maybe that night
was our farewell. Oras na para harapin namin ang totoong mundo. He is bound to
marry Taliah and I am bound to marry Arthemis Ledwidge.

It's time to stop this forbidden affair we have. Simula't-sapul, talagang

pinagbabawal na. Everything has an end. And we should definitely end.

"You really are fond of overthinking," Art said, dragging me out from my reverie.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at hilaw na ngumiti. "Sorry."

"It's okay." He smiled. "Anyway, my mother had called."

"Bakit daw?" mahinang tanong ko.

He shrugged. "She want us home. They are on your parent's mansion at the moment.
They want to meet you."

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 17
6.37K
293
79
Chapter 17

“Glad you finally came.” Bungad ni mama at tumayo.

I went to her direction and kissed her cheeks, same as what I did to papa. Naglibot
ako ng paningin at dumapo ito sa isang ginang na katabi ni Art at sa lalaking sa
tingin ko ay ka-edad ni papa.

I plastered my practiced smile. “Good afternoon, po.”

Ngumiti ng malawak ang ginang. “Good afternoon, too. Napakaganda mo namang bata.”
I bowed my head. “Salamat po.”

Tuhikhim si mama. “Maupo muna tayo.”

We just nodded and took our seat. Magkatabi ang mga magulang ni Art, well that’s
what I think. Habang si mama at papa naman ay nakaupo sa mga single sofa. Me and
Art sat together on the long sofa.

“Vielle,” sambit ni mama. “This is Amelia Ledwidge, your fiancée’s mother and Edcel
Ledwidge, his father.”

Tumango ako dito at ngumiti. “Nice to meet you po.”

Ngumiti ang ginang. “You're really indeed a beautiful lady, Vielle. I like you
already.”

Kime akong ngumiti dito. Inaya ni papa si tito Edcel doon sa pool area dahil meron
daw siyang ipapakita. Samantalang si mama ay nakangiti habang nakatingin sa’ming
dalawa ni Art.

“I can remember my teen days by just looking at them,” saad ni mama na sinang-
ayunan naman ni tita.

“Yeah,” she replied. “Anong kurso mo, hija?”

“Uhm, tourism po,” magalang kong sagot habang nakangiti.

“Magkasing-edad lamang sila ni Art, tama?” saad ni mama. “You were really a good
match.”

Hindi ako nagsalita at pilit na lang ngumiti. They were talking about many things
such as their high school days, when they met our fathers, up to the day they both
gave birth to me and Art.

“Yeah, that was the worst day I’ve ever encountered,” tugon ni tita Amelia. Sadness
flickered through her eyes for a moment.

And I guess ako lang ang nakakita nu’n.

They were talking about the burning hospital where they labored. Nasunog daw ang
ospital at buti nalang ay nasagip kaming pareho ni Art.

“Maybe they are destinied for each other because they both got saved,” usal ni
mama.

Hindi ako umimik. I was just listening to their conversation, sumasagot kapag
tinatanong. All the time, me and Art were just silent. Wala kaming masabi sa
sobrang dami ng kwento nila. Sometimes we laugh when they are talking about funny
things.

“Anak,” sambit ni mama. “Why don’t you make some snacks? May pinapagawa pa kasi ako
sa mga kasambahay, e.”

I smiled and nod. “Sure po.” Tumayo na ako at nginitian sila. “Excuse me.”

Naglakad ako patungo sa kusina. Habang naglalakad ay tinanggal ko ang blazer ng

uniform ko at iniwan ang puting long-sleeves. Nang makapasok ako sa kusina ay
nilapag ko sa counter ang blazer at naghanap ng tray.
We only have three maids here, one gardener and two guards na nakatambay sa labas
ng habay. Ayaw daw kasi ni mama ng maraming tao sa bahay na kahit saan siya
tumingin ay may tao. The mansion is the only place she find peaceful. Naiintindihan
ko naman siya. Business is quite stressful.

I made some sandwich and ginger tea for mama. Nakagat ko naman ang aking ibabang
labi nang mapagtanto kong hindi ko alam kung anong drinks ang gusto ni tita Amelia.
Nakakahiya na ring lumabas para tanungin kung ano ang gusto niya.

I bit my lips and opened the fridge. Kumuha ako ng gatas at dalawang prutas bago
sinara ang fridge. I walked back to the counter and look for a glass. Nang makita
ko ito ay nagkuha ako ng dalawa at nagsalin ng gatas sa mga baso.

As I turned around, someone spoke.

“Boh!”

“Demonyo!”

Nabitawan ko ang lalagyan ng gatas nang gulatin ako ng isang hinayupak na akala ko
ay matino ngunit may pagkasiraulo pala.

The milk spilled on his shirt making the both of us shock. I immediately murmured
sorry and look for a table napkin.

“Damn, I’m sorry. Hindi ko ‘yun sinasadya,” natataranta kong sambit at pinunasan
ang damit niya. “Bakit mo ba kasi ako ginugulat?” may bahid ng paninisi kong
tanong.

“I didn’t know you startled so easily,” natatawang sambit nito. “Anyways, you look
cute when you’re startled.”

Napaiwas ako ng tingin dito at namula. I pinched his tummy hard to hide my flushed
look. “Tigilan mo ako, Arthemis.”

“Aw!” he groaned with a touch of chuckle. “You are hurting my abs.”

“Wala kang abs,” mabilis na tugon ko habang punas-punas pa rin ang parte kung saan
natapunan ng gatas.

Well, that was a lie. He has a good body figure that you’ll really conclude he is
going to gym. Basically, may abs siya. Pero ang tanga ko naman kung aamin akong
meron siyang abs. E, mas hulmado pa abs ni Daze.

Okay, self. What the hell did you say?

“Excuses.” Ngumisi ito. “If I know, you were just secretly touching my abs by
wiping the milk.”

Mahina akong natawa at tumigil sa pagpupunas ng kanyang suot na t-shirt. I throw

him the table napkin and rolled my eyes with a smile on my lips. At dahil sa pag-
irap ko, namataan ko ang bulto ng isang taong nakatalikod at naglakad paalis mula
sa hamba ng pinto.

I blinked several times when I heard Art chuckled. “You easily got annoyed.”

Muli ko itong inirapan at tumawa. “Tapos?”

“My life everyday when we get married would be a thrill.” Tinukod niya ang siko sa
counter at kumindat. “I’ll be dealing with a short-tempered wife everyday.”

Bahagya akong napangiwi nang marinig ko ang salitang ‘wife’. Nakakapanibago at

parang ayoko ‘yung mangyari, ngunit wala na akong mapagpipilian. I should get used
with the word ‘wife’ since we’re bound to marry.

So bitch, you should wake up discard what your stupid heart is saying about your
brother! Loving him is an incest. It’s taboo.

Hindi mo mahal ang kuya mo. You just felt it because he’s the one who made you a
woman. My subconscious states.

Yeah, that’s right. I convinced myself.

“I told you, overthinking is no good,” Art said, dragging me back to my reality.

“Don’t make it as your habit.”

Napangiti ako dito. “Anyway, what’s your mom’s preferred drinks?”

“Just milk. She loves milk,” he replied.

I nodded. “Nga pala, bakit ka sumunod? May kailangan ka?”

“They told me to help you prepare, but you just spilled me milk. Is that your way
of telling me that you don’t want me as your husband?” Pagdadrama nito na
ikinahalakhak ko.

Pumulot ako ng isang mansanas at walang sabi-sabing pinasak ito sa bibig niyang
ayaw manahimik.

“I didn’t mean it.” I chuckled. “Here. Tulungan mo akong dalhin ito sa kanila.”

Sinamaan ako nito ng tingin. I don’t know why but I find him cute while looking at
me and sending me glares.

Nginuya niya ang nakagat niya mula sa mansanas habang masama pa rin ang tingin
sa’kin. “You really a bad soon-to-be-wife.”

Humalakhak lang ako.

Damn, I like his attitude!

--

“We have to go, it’s already past nine. At isa pa, mukhang pagod din si Vielle mula
sa school. Pasensiya ka na, hija,” Tita said with an apologetic smile.

Ngumiti lang ako dito. “Okay lang po ‘yun.”

She nodded and smiled. Nagsalita naman si tito Edcel. “Take a rest for now, young
lady.”

“I will, tito,” I replied.

“Bukas na bukas, bibisitahin natin ‘yung bahay na bibilhin natin kung saan kayo
titira ni Art,” sambit ni tita Amelia. “Is that okay with you, Vielle?”

Wala sa sarili akong napalunok. I’m out of words. I want to roar no, ngunit napag-
usapan na nila ito. I composed my fake smile and nodded my head.
“Okay, cool,” saad ni tito. “We have to go.”

“Vielle,” tawag pansin sa’kin ni mama. “Ihatid mo nalang sila hanggang sa lawn.”

Ngumiti ako dito at tumango. Art kissed my mom’s cheeks habang tinanguhan niya si
papa. Sinamahan ko naman sila maglakad palabas ng mansiyon. Naunang naglakad si
tito at Art habang kami naman ni tita ang nasa huli.

“Danica raised you properly and well-manered lady. I’m very proud having you as my
son’s wife,” sambit ng ginang habang naglalakad kami patungo sa isang van na
naghihintay sa kanila.

I awkwardly chuckled. “Uhm, thank you.”

She just answered me with a smile. Naging tahimik rin kami hanggang sa makarating
kami sa gilid ng van. Tito got in and also, Art, while tita faced me with a smile
on her lips.

But her eyes flashed the opposite.

“See you tomorrow?” she said and I nodded. “Can I hug you?”

Nangunot ang noo ko. “P-po?”

She smiled and held my elbow. Nagulat ako nang yakapin niya ako, at mas lalo pa
akong nagulat nang humigpit ang kanyang yakap. Her embrace were as if she’s longing
for something... and it’s quite odd.

Sa halip na umangal, sinagot ko nalang ang kanyang yakap at bahagyang tinapik-tapik

ang kanyang balikat. Moments later, she pulled away from the hug and blinked her
eyes.

“I’m sorry for such act,” she said. “Anyway. Magpahinga ka na. May pasok ka pa
bukas.”

Tumango lang ako dito. She smiled at me before turning her back and entered the
van. Agad namang sinarado ng driver ang pinto at pumasok din sa driver’s seat. But
before the van accelarated, the window of the door rolled down, showing Art’s cute
yet annoying smile.

“See you tomorrow, wife.” He winked and rolled the window up again, and that’s when
the car accelerated and maneuvered towards our gate.

Hinintay ko muna itong mawala sa paningin ko bago ako pumasok sa loob ng bahay.
Humihikab pa ako papasok ng mansiyon at nakasalubong ko naman si mama.

“How’s meeting with my bestfriend’s family?” nakangiting tanong ni mama.

I blinked my sleepy eyes. “They are kind and good.” Muli na naman akong humikab.
“But, is it really necessary for us to live in a single roof? Ma, hindi ba pwedeng
saka na kapag nakapagtapos na ako? Tatlong buwan nalang— no, two months and a half.
Hindi ba pwedeng hintayin ‘yun?”

She look at me with a smile on her face. “You need to. Mahirap sumalang sa isang
loveless marriage. At isa pa, nakikita ko namang mabait si Art sa’yo.”

Hindi na ako sumagot pa. Hinayaan ko nalang siya magsalita ng mga ‘benifits’ kuno
kapag si Arthemis Ledwidge ang mapapangasawa ko.
“Hon,” papa cut her. “Let your daughter rest, okay? Hindi pa nga siya
nakakapagbihis ng uniform niya simula kaninang hapon.”

I silently thanked my father for saying it. “Aakyat na po muna ako sa taas.”

Tumango lang si mama at papa kaya nagpaalam na ako. Dumiretso ako ng akyat sa
pangalawang palapag at tumungo sa aking silid. Tinulak ko pabukas ang pinto at
sinarado ito gamit ang paa. I yawned and hurriedly dropped myself on my soft bed.

Hinayaan ko muna ang sarili kong magpahinga. I even closed my eyes to relax myself
before I find the strength to get up and took off my shoes and long-sleeves.
Nakapikit pa rin ang mga mata ko habang naghuhubad sa suot kong long-sleeves.
Paminsan-minsan ay humihikab.

“Are planning to seduce me?” A soft yet dangerous voice echoed my room.

Wala sa sarili kong naidilat ang aking mga mata at napatingin sa kuya kong nakaupo
sa sofa at mariing nakatitig sa’kin. I immediately covered back the polo on my
exposed cleavage and look at him.

Bakit andito siya? I thought he’s not planning on going here? Ilang araw na rin
siyang hindi umuuwi dito. Ngayon pa lang.

“A-anong ginagawa mo dito?” I uttered.

Tumayo ito dahilan para mapuna ko ang mukha niya. He has dark circles under his
eyes, and his face is telling me he’s exhausted.

He walk towards my direction and sat on my bed. His hand reached to touch my cheeks
and slowly caressed it.

“Is he the reason why you distance yourself to me?” May diin ang bawat salitang
binibitawan nito na siyang ikinakaba ko. “Is he?”

I gulped. “I-I don’t get what you’re trying to say.”

He chuckled nonchalantly and stood. I saw him run his fingers through his hair
frustratedly. “Damn it, Diana!”

Napaigtad ako sa biglaang pagsigaw nito. Fear rushed through me as I angry emotion
laced his facial expression.

“Lumayo ako para bigyan ka ng space to think and accept what happened between us
that night!” he roared. “At anong makikita ko? You, smiling and laughing with that
guy?! Tangina, Diana. Ano tayo dito gagohan?!”

My forehead creased despite of the fear I am feeling at the moment. “D-Daze, hindi
kita maintindihan.”

“Of course, you won’t!” sambit nito. “Tell me, Diana. Do you like him now?!
Nakakalimutan mo ba ako habang kausap siya? Or did you even think of me?”

I didn’t replied. I just sat there and looking at him, figuring what the hell is he
saying. Dahil kahit katiting sa mga sinabi niya ay wala akong maintindihan.

“Damn, I was your first! And definitely, your last!” Sinipa niya ang isang vase at
natumba ito pasandal sa shoe rock ko. “Tell me, do you like him now? Is he the
reason why you distanced yourself to me? Goddamn it, answer me!”
My hand balled into fist. Pagod na pagod ako buong araw tapos sisigaw-sigawan niya
pa ako?

“Ano bang pakialam mo?!” I yelled back. “I distanced myself to you because I can’t
accept the fact that I gave in to you that night! To my very own brother! Kaya ‘wag
na ‘wag mong idamay dito si Art kasi wala siyang kasalanan!”

“Ahh, so you’re siding him now? Bakit, Diana? Do you like him? Do you like that
guy?” He shot me dagger looks and those didn’t scare me at all.

I chuckled nonchalantly. Humigpit ang kapit ko sa hawak kong polo. “So what if I
like him? Wala ka ng kinalaman doon. He is my fiancé and future husband.”

He didn’t speak. Nakatitig lamang ito sa akin, he keep running his fingers on his
hair and his breathing were uneven.

“Nagseselos ka ba?” mahinang tanong ko matapos ng mahabang nakatahimikan.

I don’t know where I got the courage to spit that question. I just did.

He look at me with his cold eyes. “Oo. Nagseselos ako.”

I suddenly felt the tingling butterflies on my stomach. Biglang nagkaroon ng buhay

ang lahat ng laman ko na halos makalimutan kong pagod ako sa araw na ‘to.

“W-why?” mahinang usal ko. “Why are you jealous? You’re just my brother—”

“Oh, fuck that brother label,” he cursed. “Nagseselos ako dahil mahal kita!
Tangina, Diana. I will never felt this kind of jealousy towards him if I don’t love
you!”

Napanganga ako sa narinig. Oh please, somebody tell me this is just my

hallucination! “D-Daze...”

“Mahal kita. Tangina. Mahal na mahal kita.” He walked towards my direction and
reached to grab my arm, pulling me into a tight embrace. “Fuck. The jealousy I
supressed seeing you happy with him is eating me slowly.”

M-mahal niya ako?

“Daze...”

“I love you so much, Diana.” He sniffed while hugging me. Kumalas siya sa yakap at
tinitigan ako sa mga mata. “Please, don’t like or fall in love with him.”
Wala sa sariling lumipad ang palad ko sa kanyang pisngi. I contain the happiness of
my system after hearing his confession.

“B-baliw ka na ba?” I uttered. “Kapatid mo ako, Daze! You can’t love me! Fuck, this
is insanity!”

Napasinghap ako nang hapitin niya ang bewang ko at siniil ng mainit niyang halik.

“If loving you means insanity, damn I’ll admit I’m insane.”

SenyoritaAnji

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Chapter 18
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Chapter 18

Humihikab akong naglakad pababa ng hagdanan habang bitbit ang mini-backpack ko na

pinagsidlan ng mga yellow pads at iba pang light school materials. My notebooks are
on my room, masyadong mabigat kung ilagay ko pa sa bag ko.

I didn’t had a good sleep. Of course, sinong makakatulong sa naging usapan namin ni
kuya kagabi? He just confessed! He loves me, not just his sister but as a lover!
Sinong makakatulog kakaisip doon? Dagdag pa ang tuwang nararamdaman ko nang marinig
ko ‘yun kay kuya.

Crap, Vielle. Get back to your senses! Iritado kong bulong sa’king sarili habang
papasok ng kusina.

“Good morning, baby,” papa greeted me.

Ngumiti ako sa kanya at lumapit. I kissed his cheeks and said good morning before I
went towards my mother’s direction who’s busy preparing sandwich, my favorite
snack. Binati ko rin ito ng magandang umaga at hinalikan ang kanyang pisngi. She
just replied me with a humm and told me to sit to eat.

Pilit ang ngiti kong tumungo sa nakasanayan kong upuan. Nilagay ko ang bag ko sa
katabi kong upuan at pinigilan ang sariling humikab. Damn, I’m sleepless.

“You have dark circles under your eyes. Didn’t you sleep well?” puna ni mama nang
ilapag niya ang pinggan na may lamang bacon at nuggets.

I forced myself to smile. “May ginawa lang po akong project kagabi.”

Tumango lang ito sa akin at bumalik sa counter para ihanda ang iba pang breakfast.
Someone
entered the dining area and my eyes settled on that man, looking so neat on his
white shirt and blue faded jeans.

“Good morning, Daze,” bati ni papa. “Glad you slept here last night.”

Tumango lang si kuya. “Good morning.”

Wala sa sarili akong napalunok at yumuko nang mamataan ko siyang naglalakad sa

direksiyon ko. After what happened last night, wala na akong mukha pang maihaharap
sa kanya. Well, he’s the one who confessed, but I felt awkward about it.

“Good morning, Diana,” he murmured as he sat beside me. Nilipat niya ang bag ko sa
kabilang upuan at prenteng umupo sa tabi ko.

I unconsciously held the hem of my skirt and gripped it tightly as I replied. “Good
morning.” Thank God I didn’t stammered!

Naglapag muli si mama ng pinggan sa lamesa bago umupo sa kaharap kong upuan. “Oh,
good morning, Daze.”

“Good morning,” he replied.

“Bakit hindi ka naka-business attire? Hindi ka papasok?” she asked.

“Well...” I bit my lip to supress my gasp when I felt a warm hand touched my bare
legs. Bahagya niya itong pinisil. “I have plans for today.”

Mahina akong tumikhim at pasimpleng tinabig ang kamay niya. Ngunit maagap din
nitong naibalik ang kamay niya sa’king hita na ikinainis ko. Muli kong tinabig ang
kamay niya na binabalik din naman kaagad. I keep doing the same and his hand is
very persistent. Ayaw niyang tanggalin ang kamay sa hita ko.

I sigh in defeat. Nagdasal muna kami bago nagsimulang kumain. Me and my brother
were just silent: his hand is still on my legs, gripping and caressing it.

“I’m done,” mahinang sambit ko.

Kinabig ko ang kamay ni Daze at umayo ako at naglakad patungong sink. I washed my
hands and look for my bag. Kinuha ko ito at lumabas ng kusina. I throw my bag on
the couch and run
upstairs to brush my teeth. Minadali ko lang ang paggalaw ko. I also used my
favorite lilac scented perfume before I stormed out of my room.

Inaayos ko ang aking suot na blazer habang pababa ng hagdanan. I yawned and earned
all of my hair on my left shoulder as I reached the living room. Hinanap ko ang
kong tinapon kong bag na nasa couch kanina.

“Nasaan ba ‘yun?” mahinang tanong ko nang hindi ko mahagilap ang bag sa paningin
ko. “Ma, have you seen—”

“It’s in the car,” sambit ng taong pumasok mula sa pintuan. “Let’s go.”

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito. “What? Daze, papasok na ako!”

“Call him kuya, Elle,” saad ni mama na palabas ng kusina. “He’s your brother.”

My teeth gritted in irritation. I blew a loud breath when my brother turned his
back and walk out of the mansion. Tinignan ko si mama at papa. Nilapitan ko sila at
hinalikan ang pisngi.

“Come home early. May lakad pa kayo nila Amelia mamaya kasama si Art,” sambit ni
mama na ikinatango ko.

I ran the distance towards the door. Naabutan ko si Daze na nakatayo sa gilid ng
nakabukas na pinto ng kanyang Chevrolet Camaro. His hands and eyes were fixed on
his phone, his eyebrows were in a straightline, and his facial expression were
pissed.

Tumikhim ako dito at pilit na ngumiti. Nag-angat ito ng tingin sa akin at gumild
para makapasok ako. Napasinghap ako nang hawakan nito ang bewang ko at inalalayan
akong makasakay. Siya mismo ang nagsarado ng pinto at umikot patungong driver’s
seat.

I buckled my seatbelt, ngunit nahirapan ako dahil ayaw kumabit. Yumuko ako para
tingnan kung saan ko ikakabit. Strands of my hair fell as I keep trying to buckle
the belt.

“Let me,” he said using his very gentle and soft voice.

Tuhmikhim ako at napalunok nang dumakwang siya palapit at siya mismo ang nagkabit
ng seatbelt. Halos idikit ko na ang sarili ko sa gilid ng sasakyan para lang
makaiwas sa kanya.

After he buckled the belt, all I thought is he will move to distance himself from
me.
Ngunit taliwas ang nangyari sa naisip ko. He leaned more and closer, close enough
that his lips almost touch mine.

“Daze,” kapos hininga kong tugon.

He pecked a kiss on my lips and slightly bit my lower lip before he moved himself
away. Para naman akong nakahinga ng maluwag nang paandarin na niya ang sasakyan at
pinaharurot palabas ng aming compound.

Nang makalabas ng sasakyan ng village ay isang nakakabinging katahimikan ang

namayani sa loob ng sasakyan. I was just staring outside the car. May kalayuan ang
UP mula sa mansion na kinakailangan ko pang maghintay ng trenta minutos bago
makarating doon.

“About last night,” sambit nito na ikinalingon ko. “I hope you’re thinking about
it.”

Damn, I was awake whole night because of that!

Tumikhim ako. “Let’s just forget that never happened.”

He chuckled nonchalantly. “You’re being impossible, Diana.”

“Daze, stop.” I breathed. “What you said last night must be forgotten. We can’t be.
Magkapatid tayo. Yes, you’re my first but you’ll never be my last. Hindi tayo
pwede!”

Humigpit ang kapit niya sa manibela. “We can if we want to.”

Para akong tinakasan ng sariling boses. I badly want to contradict what he just
said but something’s stopping me. Like a part of me agrees to what he said.

Ginilid niya ang sasakyan sa kaldasa at hinarap ako. “Tell me, Diana. Do you want
me, too?”

Hindi ako sumagot. Nakatitig lang ako dito. I watch him reached for my hand and
lifted it to his lips. Hinalikan niya ang likod ng kamay ko at pinikit ang kanyang
mga mata.

“I love you...”

My heart melted on what he whispered. I feel like I’m about to cry. Rumagasa ang
mga emosyon na ayoko kong pangalanan. I’m afraid to name it.

“Just tell me if you want me, too,” he whispered. “I am more than willing to take
you away from them. Just tell me you want me, too.”

A lone tear suddenly escape from my eye, watching him hold and kiss my hand like a
high valued treasure. “We can’t be.”

Binuksan niya ang kanyang mga mata at dumapo ito sa luhang namalisbis sa mga mata
ko. “Diana...”

“Hindi ko alam kung anong dapat maramdaman ko.” I bit my lip to stop myself from
sobbing. “Hindi tayo pwede, e. Gusto kong magalit sa’yo dahil sa sinabi mong mahal
mo ako pero hindi ko kayang magalit kasi may parte sa’kin na masaya matapos ng
naging usapan natin kagabi. Damn, I was awake the whole night thinking kung tama ba
‘tong nararamdaman ko o ano. Magkapatid tayo, e. We can’t be together.”
I saw him stilled. “A-anong sinabi mo?”

Umiwas ako ng tingin dito. I pulled my hand from his hold and used it to wipe my
tears. I sniffed. “Ma-le-late na ako.”

I heard him took a deep breath. “Okay. Let’s talk about it later.”

He started the engine and drove. Hindi na ako nagsalita pa. Wala rin akong balak
magsalita. Gusto kong kutusan ang sarili ko sa biglaang pagsambit ko sa mga salita
kanina. Nakakainis!

Nang makarating na kami sa gate ng UP, ako na mismo ang nagkalas ng seatbelt at
bubuksan na sana ang pinto nang mapansin kong nakalock ito.

“Daze, lalabas na ako,” mahinang usal ko.

He heaved a deep breath and held my arms. Nagulat ako nang dumakwang ito at
hinalikan ang labi ko. Wala sa sarili akong napapikit habang hawak ang aking
hininga.

“I’ll be the one to fetch you later.” Bahagya nitong kinagat ang labi ko bago ko
narinig ang pag-click ng sasakyan.

Wala akong inaksayang oras, agad akong lumabas ng sasakyan at walang lingon na
naglakad
papasok ng school. Hindi ko mapigilan ang pagdaan ng ngiti sa aking labi.

Nang makarating ako sa aming building ay sinalubong ako ni Fiona Esteban kasama ang
kanyang mga alipores, sa likod ay nakita ko si Professor Michael na nakatingin sa
akin.

“Step aside, Fiona, and let me pass,” I said in a low and soft voice.

Napapantastikuhan ako nitong tinignan at tumawa ng sarkasmo. “What was the scenery
yesterday? Fiancé mo ba talaga ‘yun?”

Napatingin ako sa kanya nang magtanong ito. Moments later, I chuckled. “Ahh, that
handsome guy from yesterday?”

She gritted her teeth. “Sagutin mo ang tanong ko, Martinez.”

I pursed my lips and chuckled. “Yes.” I smiled sweetly. “Akala ko nga boyfriend mo
ang naghihintay sa labas, fiancé ko pala.”

I heard some gasps. “A-anong sabi mo?”

I just shrugged. “I don’t do repeat, Fiona. So step aside and stop prying on my
personal life.”

--

Madaling natapos ang buong maghapon at awasan na namin. Wala akong nakuhang lesson
dahil inaantok pa ako. Lutang ako buong araw.

I yawned and roam my eyes around, that’s when I realized I am the only who’s left.
Lahat sila ay nasa labas o nakauwi na. Bagot naman akong tumayo at sinukbit ang bag
sa aking balikat. My eyes were half-hooded as I walked out of the room.
May iilang estudyante sa hallway, may mga naglalandian sa gilid. I just didn’t mind
them because it’s none of my business.

Nang makalabas ako ng campus ay namataan ko ang chevrolet camaro na pagmamay-ari ng

taong nangakong susundo sa akin ngayong hapon. Bahagya pa akong nagtaka dahil ang
mensahe pa sa akin si Art na siya ang susundo sa akin ngayong hapon.

I saw my brother talking to Fiona. Kitang-kita ko kung paano niya pasimpleng

pinapakita ang
kanyang cleavage. But my brother’s expression were blank. Si Fiona lang ang
nagsasalita habang si Daze ay parang hindi nakikinig.

His gaze lifted on me and a smile immediately formed on his lips. He walked towards
my direction, leaving Fiona alone and looking at me with her deadly glares.
Nginitian ko naman ito ng matamis at bumaling kay Daze.

“Hey,” he greeted.

Kinuha nito ang bag na nakasukbit sa balikat ko at ang dala kong folder. Hindi ko
alam kung bakit pero otomatikong kumawit ang kamay ko sa braso ni Daze at humilig
sa kanyang balikat.

“Tired?” he asked.

I nodded in response. Inalalayan niya naman ako patungo sa kanyang sasakyan at

pinagbuksan ako ng pinto. I saw Fiona still glaring at me and I just responded with
a sweet smile before I stepped in the car.

Sinarado ni Daze ang pinto at binuksan ang backseat para doon ilagay ang backpack
ko at folders. I buckled my seatbelt and leaned on my seat with my eyes closed.
Narinig ko naman ang pagbukas at pagsara ng pinto. I also heard the clicking sound
before someone held my hand and gripped it.

Binuksan ko ang aking mga mata at humikab. “Bakit nga pala ikaw ang sumundo sa’kin?
Art texted me that he’ll fetch me.”

He look at me and started the engine. “I made some excuse. You’ll be coming home
with me.”

And without further words, he maneuvered the car. I choose to look out of the
window and watched the buildings and houses we passed by. I rolled down the window
and let the wind entered the car.

Bahagyang nangunot ang noo ko nang mapansin kong hindi na ito ang daanan patungo sa
mansion na’min. Nilingon ko dito at napansing titig na titig ito sa kalsada.

“Where are we going?”

“Home.”

Isang salita lang pero agad akong nabahala. I have no home other than my parent’s
mansion! Kung siya siguro, marami naman siyang penthouse, resthouse, at
condominiums na matatawag niyang tahanan. Pero ako?

“We’re going to Batangas, to your condo,” he said.

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko. “M-my condo?”

He smiled and nodded. My heart leaped in joy. Wala sa sarili ko itong niyakap at
hinalikan ang pisngi. I heart him chuckled and his hand landed on my legs, and
somehow, his touch makes me feel comfort and relax.

“Doon ba tayo matutulog?” I asked and he nodded. “Pero dalawang oras ang biyahe
papuntang Batangas, baka malate ako bukas.”

He look at me and chuckled.

“Sinong may sabing matutulog tayo?”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 19
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33
Chapter 19

"Wake up, sleepy head."

Ramdam ko ang pagtapik ng kung sino man sa pisngi ko. Binuksan ko ang aking mga
mata at bumungad sa akin ang sobrang lapit na mukha ni Daze. My cheeks burned when
I realized our lips were almost touching.

"We're here," he said.

Agad akong umayos ng upo at doon ko lang napansing wala na ako sa sasakyan. I am in
a very large bed- it's a queen sized I think. Naglibot naman ako ng paningin sa
buong paligid.

The room is relaxing. Magkaibang-magkaiba sa naging silid ko doon sa rest house ni

Daze sa boracay na kulay pink. This room's interior design is very unique. Simple,
yet elegant. Mula sa isang napaka-unique na wooden table, sa gray colored tiled
floor, sa chandelier na mahahalata mong babasagin dahil sa transparent ito. The big
curtains covering the glass window is painted with color gray and with gold
linings. The gray single couch facing the curtain with a cute fluffy white pillows
on it. May maliit na center table na may nakapatong na cactus plant.

On my left side is a book shelf, filled with different books and in-order. May
nakapalibot na LED lights sa gilid ng bookshelf na kulay puti. On my right side is
a closet painted with gray. Nag-angat din ako ng tingin nang mapansin ko ang neon
lights.

Agad akong bumangon sa kama at maagap din akong inalalayan ni Daze.

"Love," I murmured while reading the neon lights lettering.

"Yes, love?" His breathing fanned my ear.

Nilingon ko ito at sinamaan ng tingin. "I was reading the neon lights letters."

Ngumiti lang ito. "Anyway, time for dinner."

Hindi na ako nagsalita pa nang akayin ako nito palabas ng kwarto. May napansin din
akong vase sa gilid ng pinto na nagpangiti sa'kin. It has a lilac plastic flower.

Nang makalabas kami ay sumalubong sa akin ang nakakakalmang paligid hatid ng kulay
abo at itim na interior ng condo. May painting na nakasabit sa gilid ng pader
katabi ng nakasaradong abong kurtina. The sofa has a creamy color. Tatlong sofa
lang ang meron; dalawang single sofa, at isang mahabang sofa. Meron din'g
flatscreen televison at centre table na may drawer sa ilalim at may LED lights sa
gilid.

Nagtataka ko itong nilapitan at binuksan ang parang isang mini-ref na parte ng

centre table. My mouth formed into an 'o' as I got amazed seeing it was really a
mini-fridge with beers and other drinks inside.

"Cool," I whistled.

I heard him chuckled. "Did you like your new condo?"

Binalingan ko ito at ngumiti. "I am!"

He smiled. "Let's go. Kumain muna tayo."

Tumango ako dito at muling lumapit sa kanya. Malaki ang condo, nakakakomportable
ang kulay ang mga kagamitan.

Behind the wooden diveder, is the dining set with two wooden hairs and a single
table. May nakahandang pagkain sa mesa at agad na naglaway ang bagang ko nang
mamataan ko ang sinigang na nakahain sa mesa.

"You cooked my favorite." I smiled sweetly.

He just give me a tight smile. Pinaghila niya ako ng upuan bago siya umupo sa
upuang kaharap ko. We said grace before we started eating... silently.

Walang niisa sa amin ang nagsalita habang kumakain. Paminsan-minsan ay naglalagay

siya ng pagkain sa pinggan ko at nagpapatuloy sa pagkain.

"Ghad," I mumbled. Sumandal ako sa aking kinauupuan. "I'm full."

"That's good," he said with a smile.

Niligpit niya ang mga pinagkainan namin at inutusan niya akong magbihis muna para
matulog. Tumalima kaagad ako at nagtungo sa kwarto ng condo. Hinanap ko kaagad ang
banyo na madali ko ring nahanap.

I walked towards the bathroom and opened the door. Bumungad sa akin ang maaliwalas
na paligid. May nakatayong tree rock na pinagsabitan ng dalawang gray at white
bathrobe sa gilid ng salamin. The shower area was enclosed with a blurry glass
wall.

Tumungo kaagad ako sa sink at naghanap ng extra toothbrush. I was slightly shock
nang mapansin kong pares-pares ang mga kagamitan. From the bathrobe, to the towels,
toothbrushes, and even the bathroom slippers!

I just proceeded on brushing my teeth and after that, I went out of the bathroom
and went towards the closet. Binuksan ko ito at napaawang ang bibig ko nang
mapansing andito ang ibang shorts at sleeveless kong hinahanap ko. Meron ding iba
pang mga kagamitan na sa tingin ko ay bagong bili pa. My eyes moved down and saw my
pair of school shoes, slippers, and stiletto.

"Aren't you gonna take a bath?"

Napalingon ako nang pumasok ito sa loob ng kwarto. "Bakit nandito ang mga gamit
ko?"
He shrugged. "This is your condo."

Napaawang ang bibig ko sa sinabi nito. "Yes, this is my condo now. Pero paano mo
nakuha ang mga gamit ko? Did you touched my personal stuffs?"

Hindi ito nagsalita. He just went towards the night stand and I saw him took off
his watch.

"Are you planning something?" mahinang tanong ko. "Plano mo bang ibukod ako?"

He look at me and chuckled nonchalantly. "Tayo. Bubukod tayo."

Nangunot ang noo ko. "A-ano?"

I heard him took a deep breath and walked towards me. Nakatingin laman ako dito
hanggang sa makarating siya sa harapan ko.

"I am planning on living alone with you," he said. "Starting from now, dito ka na
uuwi."

"Nahihibang ka na." I was eyeing him with hopelessness. "Daze, ilang beses ko bang
dapat sabihin sa'yo na hindi tayo pwede! I am your sister-"

"I know you want me, too," he cut me. "I can feel it."

"Daze..."

"Tell me, Diana. What do you feel about me? Do you still think of me as your
brother?" He held my hand. "Tell me the truth."

I want to say 'yes', ngunit huli na nang ibang salita ang lumabas sa'king bibig.
"No."

I saw how his eyes flashed happiness that was being reflected by the neon light.
"Do you love me, too?"

Napaiwas ako dito ng tingin. "Daze, mali 'to." I lifted my gaze and stare at his.
"Maling-mali. Paano na kapag nalaman ni mama na may nangyari sa'tin? Ano nalang
sasabihin nila? Ng mga tao?"

"Bakit mo ba iniisip ang sasabihin nila? We are not their business," mariin sambit
nito. "Just tell me if you love me. Fuck, Diana, I can do anything for you."

"Bakit ba napakadali lang sabihin sa'yo? May fiancée ka, Daze!"

"I don't love her!" he yelled back. Binitawan nito ang kamay ko at sinuklay ang
sariling buhok. "For more than decade, isang tao lang ang minahal ko. At ikaw
'yun!"

My mouth fell open. Nangangapa ako ng dapat kong isagot. "A-ano?"

"I love you since the day I realized how fuck life is for you to be my sister."
Nagulat ako ng lumuhod ito sa harapan ko. "Just please, tell me you love me too. I
am more than willing to do anything. Kaya kitang ipaglaban, Diana."

He was kneeling, in front of me. Begging for me to love him back. Nakayuko ito
habang hawak ang kamay ko.

Crap, what should I do?!

My mind keeps telling me to continue denying my feelings, but my heart is about to
burst. Kakaiba ang sayang nararamdaman ko matapos ng narinig ko.

Please, don't do it. Don't let your heart ruled over you! My subconscious states.

But too late. Lumuhod din ako upang mapantayan siya at hinawakan ang kanyang
pisngi. He lifted his gaze on me and I spit the words I should've not.

"Mahal din kita, Daze." Hot tears streamed along my cheeks. "Ngunit natatakot ako.
Sa mga sasabibin ng mga tao, sa magiging reaksiyon nila mama at papa."

Napatitig ito sa'kin. His eyes hold happiness with unshed tears. "Anong sabi mo?"

I slightly pinched his cheeks. "Ang sabi ko, mahal-"

"Fuck!" he cursed before crashing his lips on mine.

Buong puso kong tinugon ang halik at humawak sa kanyang balikat. My tears keep
rolling down my cheeks because of fear and happiness. I felt whole. I felt
contented.

"Say it again," he muttered between our scorching kiss.

"Mahal kita, Daze. Mahal na mahal," I said.

My heart and emotions ruled over my being. So this is what it feels like when
you're following your heart's voice. You'll feel contented and happy, like the
thing that matters now is you both love each other.

Huli ko nang napagtantong binuhat na pala niya ako nang maramdaman ko ang malambot
na kama sa likuran ko. He towered above me and showered me with his kisses.

"I love you so much," he said, temporarily breaking our kiss. "God, I feel like I'm
in cloudnine."

Siniil ako nito muli ng halik, ngunit sa pagkakataong ito ay banayad na ang galaw
ng kanyang labi at may halong pag-iingat. He was kissing me so gentle and I can't
help myself to close my eyes and savor the kiss we've shared.

I can feel him slowly unbuttoning my polo as his kisses went down my neck. Hindi ko
maiwasang mapasinghap sa tuwing kinakagat niya ang leeg ko. My body tingled in too
much sensation when he finally opened my polo ang unhooked my bra.

"Beautiful," he murmured.

"Ahh..." ungol ko nang maramdaman ko ang pagsubo niya sa dibdib ko.

He nipped, licked, and sucked it like a little child looking for a milk. His other
hand is busy caressing and squeezing my other breast, while the other hand is now
tracing my labia.

Nadadarang na ako sa nararamdaman ko. Kahit anong kastigo ng isip ko para tumigil
ako, mas nananaig ang utos ng puso ko.

I parted my legs for him to have more priviledge on my very sensitive part. My body
bend backwards due to the sensation his hands and mouth are giving me.

He pulled himself up and stare at me. Naipon sa bandang puson ko ang suot kong
skirt at malaya niyang pinasadahan ng tingin ang buo kong katawan.

"Beautiful," he muttered as he unbuckled his belt. "... and mine."

Tuluyan na niyang nahubad ang kanyang sinturon. He opened his fly and unzipped his
zipper. Nang hilahin niya ang kanyang pantalon pababa, halos mapaawang ang bibig
ko.

His manhood sprang out, looking so dangerous. Nakaramdam ako bigla ng takot nang
makita ko ang mga ugat nito. I gulped out of a sudden.

"Afraid?" he asked in a hum.

Muli akong napalunok at tumango. "Is that angry?"

He chuckled and used his right hand to caressed it. "Yes, it is."

Muli na naman akong napalunok. Nakaposisyon siya sa gitna nakabuka kong hita,
hawak-hawak ang kanyang pag-aari na umiigting sa tigas.

"Do you wanna touch it?" His voice hoarse, and I'm turned on.

Wala sa sarili akong tumango-tango. Hinawakan niya naman ang kamay ko at giniya ito
papunta sa kanyang matigas na ari. I almost gasp when I wasn't able to hold him
whole with my hand.

I heard him let out a small moan as my hand held his shaft. Naramdaman kong mas
umigting pa ang pagkalalaki nito na ikinamangha ko. Maraming ugat, e.

Unconsciously, my hand moved up and down slowly. He groaned when I did it, and I
want to hear more. Kaya pinagpatuloy ko sa paggalaw ang kamay ko.

"Fuck," he cursed under his breath and captured my wrist. "Stop."

Nag-angat ako dito na may halong pagtataka. "Huh? Why?"

He leaned in and stole a peck on my lips. "I don't want it now. I want you. So lay
down and let me own you."

Kahibangan na siguro 'to. I just smiled and followed what he told me. Humiga ako at
mas lalo niyang pinaghiwalay ang binti ko.

He held his shaft and positioned it on my entrance. Gusto kong umigtad nang
maramdaman ko ang kiliting dala nito.

"Will it fit?" mahinang tanong ko.

He leaned towards me and kissed my nose. "Yes, it will. Trust me."

He lowered his head on my neck and sucked a skin of it as he slowly thrusted inside
me. A long moan escape my lips when I felt the mixture of pain and pleasure as he
go deep inside me. Hindi ko maiwasang mapahawak sa braso niyang nakatukod sa
magkabilang gilid ko.

My nails dig on his arms. My body bend backwards as I moan. Daze captured my lips
for an ardent kiss. Nagsimula naman itong gumalaw sa loob ko, and slowly the pain
and pleasure I
felt was left with only pleasure.
I encircled my arms on his neck and pulled him more closer, my legs straddled on
his waist as he keep pumping inside me.

"God!" ungol ko nang pakawalan niya ang labi ko. "Hit it again."

I heard him chuckled and obeyed me. Muli niyang tinamaan ang sensitibong parte ng
loob ko na nagpapatirik sa'king mata. My fingers clawed the white sheets as both
moan and groan.

"Fuck, malapit na ako," paos kong sambit.

His thrusts became faster and faster. It's like were both desperate to reach
something. My hips accepted his every move.

"I-I'm coming..." I breathed.

"Come with me," sambit nito sa magaspang niyang boses.

Few more thrusts, I felt myself burst. A long moan escape my lips as I came. Ramdam
ko rin ang mainit na likidong dumaloy sa loob ko na sa tingin ko ay galing kay
Daze.

"Fuck." He nuzzled between the hallow of my neck and his body dropped on mine.
"That was amazing, love."

"Love?" I asked in a hum. "Is that our endearment?"

I felt him nodded. "Call me love."

Mahina akong natawa. "Love."

"Yes?" paos ang boses nito. "I love you."

I felt my heart melt. I smiled to myself. "I love you, too."

"This feels surreal," he murmured. "Hearing you replying to my 'i love you's' feels
like a dream."

I lifted my hand and dropped it on his head. I run my fingers through his soft and
smooth hair. "Yeah."

"I thought my love will remain unrequited." He chuckled and buried his face on my
neck more. "I love you."

Napangiti ako nang makaramdam ako ng antok. Ramdam ko ang kusang pagkahugot ng
pagkalalaki niya sa loob ko na ikinangiti ko.

This feels like a dream. I just hope it isn't.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 20
6.54K
228
Chapter 20

I was staring at his handsome face. Nakaidlip lang ako ngunit hindi ako makatulog
ulit. Maraming bagay ang tumatakbo sa isip ko ngayon. Una, ang pag-amin ko sa
totoong nararamdaman ko para sa kanya. Pangawala, ang pangalawang pagkakataong may
nangyari sa’min. Pangatlo, kung ano ang magiging reaksiyon nila mama, ng mga tao,
at lalong-lalo na ang clan ng Martinez kapag nalaman nila ang tungkol sa bagay
na’to.

I felt him tightened his embrace. Napangiti ako habang nakatitig sa kanya. My head
is rested on his right arm while his left arm was wrapped around my waist.
Nakatanday ang binti nito sa hita ko na para bang ayaw niyang makawala ako.

My forefinger traced his straight and proud nose. Payapa ang mukha nito habang
natutulog, na kahit ako na nakatitig lang ay napapakalma.

I heaved another deep breath. Masakit pa rin ang pagitan ng hita ko ngunit hindi
kasing sakit noong una. He’s huge, that’s normal. Namula ako sa’king sariling
iniisip.

I felt him moved. “Hey.”

I blinked several times and compose my smile. “Hey, did I wake you?”

He smiled and shook his head. Napasinghap ako nang angatin nito ang katawan ko at
pinatong ako sa ibabaw niya. His hands immediately wrapped around my waist and my
head were resting on his broad shoulders. I can feel his heart beating fast.

“Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso mo,” puna ko.

I felt him kissed my hair. “Only you can make it beat that way.”

Nakagat ko ang aking ibabang labi upang pigilan ang pagsilay ng ngiti sa’king labi.
My heart start thumping fast and I felt my cheeks burned red.

“It’s still three in the morning, why are you still awake?” tanong nito sa
malumanay na boses.

I smiled and shook my head, still listening to his heartbeat. “I’m just thinking of
something.”

I felt him tightened his embrace. “What is it?”

“Iniisip ko lang, paano kaya kapag nalaman nila mama ang tungkol sa’tin? Paano ‘pag
merong magkakita at magsumbong sa’tin? Natatakot ako.” I took a deep breath. “Baka
sakaling alisin sa’yo ang mana o ‘di kaya—”

“Hold my hand,” he cut me.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at napatingin sa kamay niyang nakabuka at naghihintay

na hawakan ko. Nagtataka ko naman itong hinawakan at tinignan siya.

“Hold it tightly,” he murmured.

Sinunod ko naman ang sinabi nito. I intertwined our fingers and held it tightly.
“Bakit?”

“Hmm,” he hummed. “Just like how you hold my hand, hold unto me tightly. Just keep
holding me. Kaya kitang ipaglaban. Damn, love, I can do anything for you.”

“Pero—”

“I know,” he cut me again. “We can keep it a secret for now. And this place would
be our paradise where we can be us.”
I chuckled nonchalantly and held his hand tightly. “And when the moment we open the
doors, we’ll act like what? Siblings?”

Siya naman ang natawa ng mahina at bumuga ng marahas na hangin. “Hell, I don’t
think I can act like one. I want to touch you, to kiss you, embrace you in every
fucking minute.”

I felt my heart melted. “What if fighting for me means losing everything you have?”

“I have you,” he said. Like his response is the only answer for every questions I’m
planning to throw on him.

Bigla niyang hinigpitan ang kapit sa’king kamay. He look down at me and kissed my
forehead. Napapikit naman ako. This is home. The comfort in his arms are telling me
I am home. I hope this lasts.

But nothing lasts forever. Wala ring sekretong hindi nabubunyag, kaya sa oras na
malalaman nila mama ang namamagitan sa’min ni Daze, I’m sure they’ll be furious and
do everything just to separate us.

“Just remember what I told you,” sambit nito. “I don’t care if I lose everything.
As long as I have you, I’m fine losing them.”

--

Humikab ako at sinarado ang aking bag. Dalawang araw na akong walang matinong
tulog. Dagdag pa sa isip ko ‘yung pagiging overthinker ko.

“You’re out of your shoes lately, are you okay?” saad ng isang boses na halos
ikatalon ko sa gulat.

I held my chest and took a deep breath. “Professor Micheal...”

“You we’re scolded many times, may problema ka ba?” concerned na tanong nito.

Napalingon-lingon ako sa paligid. Ako na lang at siya ang nandito sa loob ng

classroom. It’s already past five that’s why most of the students are home. Why the
heck is he here?

I look at him and lifted my signatured smile. “Ayos lang po ako, Prof. Napuyat lang
sa mga subjects.”

Sinukbit ko ang bag sa aking balikat at pinulot ang mga folders na nakalatag sa
mesa. Ramdam ko ang pagsunod niya ng tingin sa’kin na hindi ko nalang pinansin.
Nang matapos ako ay saka ko lamang siya binalingan ng atensiyon.

“Bakit nga po pala kayo nandito?” I asked as if it concerns me.

Hell, I don’t really care.

Tumikhim ito at nag-iwas ng tingin. “I just passed by,.”'

Ngumiti ako dito. “Mauuna na po ako, Prof. Naghihintay na siguro ang sundo ko sa
labas.”

Hindi ko na hinintay ang sagot nito at yumuko muna bago ako lumisan ng silid. Halos
maglakad takbo ako pababa ng building dahil sa excited akong makita si Daze. I
don’t know. I’m just excited to see him. Dadaan pa rin ako ng pharmacy para bumili
ng contraseptive pills.

My smile faded when it’s not him who’s waiting, it was Art. Nakasandal ito sa dala
niyang Dodge Viper habang pinapaikot ang car keys sa kanyang daliri. Nang mamataan
ako nito ay sumilay ang ngiti sa kanyang mukha.

“Hey, what took you so long?” He went near me and kissed my forehead, taking me
aback. He chuckled. “Sorry. It’s really my behavior.”

Napapantastikuhan ko itong tinignan. “Kissing someone’s forehead is your behavior?

Weird.”

“Nope,” he said popping the letter ‘p’. Kinuha niya sa kamay ko ang folder.
“Kissing my girl’s forehead is my behavior.”

Napipilan ako sa sinabi nito. And then reality strikes, oh yes he’s my fiancé by
the way, how could I forget? Pilit akong ngumiti dito. “That’s cool.”

“Yeah, cool.” Inakbayan ako nito palapit sa kanyang sasakyan.

He took off his arms around my shoulders and opened the door for me. Nginitian ko
naman ito bago pumasok. Nilagay ko sa aking hita ang mini-backpck ko at nagsuot ng
seatbelt. Ramdam ko naman ang pagpasok ni Art ng sasakyan at nagkabit din ng
seatbelt.

“How was your thesis? Did you finished it?” pagbubukas nito ng usapan.

Nagtataka ko itong binalingan matapos maikabit ang seatbelt. “Huh?”

“I mean yesterday. Your brother told us you cannot make it on checking the house
because
you are struggling on your thesis and your brother helped you that’s why we
canceled the night.” He started the engine and look at me. “Did you finished it?”

Napalunok ako. He said that? “Uhm... yeah. I did.”

Tumango naman ito at ngumiti. “Great!” Inapakan nito ang silinyador at pinausad na
ang sasakyan.

“Bakit nga pala ikaw ang sumundo sa’kin?” I asked, trying to fish some reasons
bakit hindi si Daze ang naghihintay sa’kin.

He gave me sideway glances. “Your brother had a visitor, it was his childhood
friend I think? His fiancée is also there that’s why I am the one who fetched you.”

Napatango-tango ako dito. So Taliah is there, sino naman ang childhood friend ni
Daze? Iisang taong lang naman— hell?! Don’t tell me...

“Hey, are you okay?” Artemis held my hand that was gripping my bag tightly.

Napatingin ako dito. Mariin kong pinikit ang aking mga mata at ginamit ang isang
kamay ko para hawakan ang kamay ni Art na napatong sa kamay ko. I held his hand
tightly.

“I’m okay. Inaantok lang talaga ako,” I said and opened my eyes. Binalingan ko ito
na may ngiti sa’king labi. “Anyway, are you gonna stay on the mansion tonight?”

Tumango ito at ngumiti. “Yes.”

Nanatili lang ang kamay niya sa kamay ko na unti-unti ay nagpapakalma sa
pagkabahalang nararamdaman ko. Isang nakakatakot na pakiramdam.

Hell, am I falling for this man? Or just being comfortable with him around?

Argh! I prefer the latter.

“Are you hungry? Do you want us to grab some snack?” he asked, gripping my hand to
catch my attention.

Napalabi ako. “I’m allergic to chicken and peanuts.”

He chuckled. “What do you want to eat then?”

I held my chin, acting like I’m thinking while my other hand is still on Art’s
hold. “Hmm, can we buy some desserts? Like, mcfloat or such?”

“Sure,” he replied. Binitawan nito ng kamay ko para ihawak sa lever at iniliko ang
sasakyan sa drive-thru ng Mc Donalds.

“And, Art, uhmm.” Napakamot ako sa aking batok. “Pwede rin ba tayong dumaan sa
isang drug store?”

Nangungunot ang noong binalingan ako nito. “Do you have any illness?”

Agad naman akong umiling dito. Damn, I’m buying some contraseptive pills! “M-may
bibilhin lang.”

--

Inalalayan ako ni Art na makababa ng kanyang sasakyan. Hawak niya ang folders ko
habang hawak ko naman sa kamay ko ang isang mcfloat na binili sa’kin ni Arthemis.

“You looked so worn out. Did you get a good sleep?” tanong nito.

Tumango ako at maglalakad na sana nang matapilok ako. Masyado na akong inaantok,
parang gusto ko na magpahinga. Pagod na ang buo kong katawan.

“I’m fine,” sansala ko sa ano pa mang itanong niya.

He chuckled at inagaw sa akin ang hawak kong mcfloat. Tumalikod ito sa akin at
umupo. “Hop in and I’ll carry you to your room.”

Humikab ako at hindi na nagmatigas. I’m totally worn out throughout the day.
Masakit na rin ang paa ko dahil sa suot kong two-inches heels, so yeah. The offer
is tempting.

Hinubad ko ang suot kong heels na agad namang pinulot ni Art. Sumampa ako sa likod
niya at agad naman siyang tumayo. Maybe I should thank Daze for buying me a dark
slacks, because that’s what I’m wearing now.

Kinuha ko sa pagkakahawak ni Art ang folders at mcfloat. Ang tanging hawak nalang
niya ay
ang pares ng heels ko. I rested my chin on his shoulders and wrapped my arms around
his neck. Humigpit ang kapit niya sa aking binti at naglakad papasok ng mansion.

Hindi ko na pinigilan ang sarili ko, tuluyan nang bumagsak ang takulap ng mga mata
ko, ngunit hindi ko hinayaan ang sarili kong makatulog. I was just closing my eyes
but I’m not asleep.
“Art! Glad you finally— what happened?” I heard my mom fuss.

Hindi ko dinilat ang mga mata ko. I just listened to them. “She fell asleep on my
car, tita.”

“Aww, my poor baby.” I felt a hand caressed my hair.

“Is that your bunso, tita? Vielle?” sambit ng isang napakapamilyar na boses.

Humigpit ang pagkakayapos ko sa leeg ni Art. I think Art sensed it. “I-aakyat ko na
po si Elle, tita. Nasaan po ang kwarto niya?”

“I’ll take her to her room.” I heard his voice coming out from the crowd.

“I-akyat mo na ako, ako na magtuturo asan ang kwarto ko,” I whispered.

Tumango naman si Art. “Aakyat na po ako.”

I felt him started to walk. Tinuro ko naman sa kanya ang kwarto ko na agad niya
namang sinunod. Siya mismo ang nagpihit ng door knob at tinulak nito pabukas. He
closed the door using his foot and walked towards my bed. Nilapag ako nito sa kama,
nilagay ko naman kaagad ang mga hawak ko sa nightstand at humikab.

“So this is your room?” he said.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at napansing naglilibot ito ng tingin sa kwarto ko.
Tumihik naman ako at tumango. “Yeah.”

“You like silver colored curtains?” he asked as he settled himself at the edge of
my bed.

Umiling ako dito at ngumiti. I covered my mouth to release a burp and look at him
with an
apologetic smile. “Sorry, nabusog lang talaga ako sa binili mo kanina. Hindi ko na
nga maubos-ubos ang mcfloat, e.”

He chuckled. “Anyways, I have to go downstairs. Tatanungin ko pa si tita kung saan

ako matutulog tonight.”

“Napapadalas pagsasalita mo ng tagalog right now, ah,” pambubuska ko dito.

He just rolled his eyes on me in a manly way. Nagpaalam din naman itong aalis na
para bumaba. Nang maiwan akong mag-isa ay humilata ako sa kama at muling humikab.
Bumalik sa aking alaala ang boses na narinig ko kanina.

Ang boses na kinaiinisan ko.

Bumangon ako sa kama at hinubad lahat ng damit sa suot ko. I tied my hair into a
messy bun and walked towards the human sized mirror. The room is in dim for Art
turned off the light before he goes out.

Binuksan ko ang LED lights na nakapalibot sa buong salamin. The vision of my whole
body came into the view, from my head down to my toes. Bahagya akong tumagilid
upang tingnan ang hita kong dati rati’y punong-puno ng mga peklat.

I chuckled to myself. Am I ready to face her? ‘Yung galit na tinanim ko sa kanya

maraming taon na ang nakakalipas, ay nandito pa rin.
I blinked several times when I saw tears forming on my eyes. Nakarinig naman ako ng
katok na tinatawag na ako para sa hapunan.

“I’ll just take a shower,” I responded before entering my bathroom.

Nagmadali lamang ako sa pagligo at agad na pinatuyo ang buhok ko. I choose to wear
a black satin short and sleeveless. Pinatingkad ng kulay itim ang kulay ng balat
ko. Hinayaan ko na ring malugay ang buhok ko bago ako nagmamadaling naglakad
pababa. Rinig na rinig ko pa ang paglapat ng tsinelas ko sa hagdanan.

“Vielle?”

I was about to enter the kitchen when someone called my name. Natigilan ako nang
makilala ko kung sino ang nagmamay-ari ng boses.

I inhaled deeply and build my practiced composure. Hinarap ko ito na may ngiti sa
aking labi. “Yes?”

I saw her stilled, eyeing me from head to my toes and back to my face. “I-ikaw
nga.”

Peke ko itong nginitian. She keep eyeing me head to foot, specially to my legs,
where my scars are located... before...

“May kailangan ka?” I asked with my voice full of sarcasm.

“Hindi mo ba ako naaalala?” she asked, I chuckled.

Natatawa akong napailing dito. “Sino ka ba?”

She was about to open her mouth when someone behind me called her.

“Hayden...”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 21
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267
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Chapter 21

I was just silently eating. Katabi ko sa upuan si Art, nasa magkabilang dulo si
mama at papa habang kaharap ko si Kuya at Hayden. All I thought is that Taliah is
here, but she’s nowhere to be found.

“Kailan ka pa nakauwi, hija? I’m sorry I wasn’t able to entertain you right after
you came,” pagbabasag ni mama sa mahabang katahimikan sa hapag.

Nagpatuloy ako sa pagsubo. Paminsan-minsan namang sinasalinan ni Art ng pagkain ang

pinggan ko na sinusuklian ko lang ng ngiti.

“Uhm, I just arrived this afternoon. Dito po kaagad ako dumiretso.” I catched her
giving Daze side glances. “I was so excited to see my childhood friend.”

Napangiwi ako nang banggitin niya ang salitang childhood friend. Gusto kong matawa.
I’m a woman, and it’s normal for me to have my instinct right. That she came back
to Philippines for my brother.
“Nagtaka nga kami nung sabihin ni Syl na aalis kayo ng bansa. Anyway, you look so
beautiful right now,” my mother told her.

Rinig ko naman itong mahinang natawa. “Thank you po.”

Nanatili lamang ako nakinig. I didn’t utter a single word. I didn’t even bother
lifting my eyes to know if my brother is the one who keep throwing me deadly
glares.

“You should be on Daze’s wedding soon,” sambit ni papa. “Your friend is getting
married, same as his sister.”

Napahigpit ang hawak ko sa aking kubyertos, and I guess she is too. I can feel
someone’s pinching my heart to tight that I want to roar ‘no’ and contradict
father’s sentence.

“You okay?” bulong ni Art sa tabi ko.

Nilingon ko ito at nginitian ng pilit. “I’m fine.”

“I-ikakasal na si Daze?” Pumainlanlang ang boses ni Hayden sa hapag. “Ikakasal ka

na with that girl?”

Hindi sumagot si Daze kaya si mama na ang sumagot sa katanungan ni Hayden. “Yes,
he’s marrying Taliah Ochevelo soon.”

Mariin kong pinikit ang aking mga mata at maingat na nilapag ang hawak kong
kutsara. Kinuha ko ang tubig sa aking tabi at ininom ‘yon, kinuha ko naman ang
table napkin at pinunasan ang aking labi.

I cleares my throat and smiled. “I’m full. Aakyat na po ako.”

Tumango naman si mama habang si papa ay tipid akong nginitian. I told Art I’ll be
on the swimming pool area in case he’ll look for me, which he answered with a nod.
Hindi ko na tinapunan ng tingin ang pwesto ni Hayden at Daze, dumiretso na ako sa
paglalakad palabas ng pinto at palabas ng kusina.

Nagtungo ako sa pool area at umupo sa isang upuan na gawa sa alloy at nakaharap sa
malawak na swimming pool. The lights beneath the pool are glistening above water. I
crossed my legs, placing my elbows above my knees and resting my chin on my palm.

My mind drifted on my brother, Daze. We made love, we confessed to each other, and
we both agree on keeping it as a secret. Ngunit paano nalang kung matutuloy ang
kasal ni Daze at Taliah? Paano na? Hindi ko naman pwedeng pigilan ang kasal nila
dahil sino ba naman ako? A sibling?

I chuckled to myself. The world really knows how to piss someone off, and fate is
smart enough to play peoples feelings and situation. How come I feel in love with
my very own brother?

“Uhm, hi.”

Napaangat ang tingin ko sa taong biglang tuhimikhim, and it was Hayden Aris; my
brother’s bestfriend. Nakangiti ito sa akin ngunit alam kong isa itong pekeng
ngiti. I know what is genuine and what is fake. And I can smell plasticity around.

“Anong kailangan mo?” I asked in a flat tone. I don’t like her around, it will only
give me the vibes and memories from the past that caused me too much trauma.
Umupo ito sa kaharap kong upuan at ngumiti ng malawak. “You’re a grown up now.
Gusto lang kitang kumustahin.”

I chuckled nonchalantly and rolled my eyes. “I don’t have time for chitchats,
Hayden. Hindi ko rin gustong makaharap at makausap ka.”

I saw her got taken aback with my bold words. I just hate flowery shits. Life is
too short to keep everything inside, that’s my mottoo in life. It’s not bad to
remove toxic people from your life. A shark won’t grow on it’s according size
inside a fish tank, unless it’s in the ocean. I won’t grow if I don’t remove her in
my life and memories and live the traumas in the past.

“If you’re still thinking about the past, come on, Vielle. We’re already grown up,
it’s part of childhood.” She eyed me. “Look at you now, so fine and fabulous.
Puberty really hits you so well, I’m envied.”

“Part of childhood?” Mahina akong natawa sa sinabi nito. Really? Bullying someone’s
flaw is part of childhood? “Kung ano man ang sadya mo, sabihin mo na. Sinasayang mo
lang ang oras mo.”

Tumikhim ito at sumeryoso ang kanyang mukha. “Okay, I’m sorry for what I’ve done
from the past. Gusto ko lang humingi ng tawad at humingi ng pabor.”

Mataman ko itong tinignan. Am I ready to forgive this girl? “Favor about what?”

There was a long silence followed. Alam kong nagdadalawang-isip siya na sabihin
kung ano ang pabor na nais niyang mahingi. Asa namang tutulungan kita.

“I want to steal your brother.”

Parang isang hangin ang dumaan na nagpatahimik at nagpatigil sa’kin. I look at her
in disbelief and her eyes hold determination and confidence. Nakatitig rin ito sa
akin at nagmamatyag sa magiging reaksiyon ko.

I chuckled to ease my anger. Damn, this girl is planning to steal my man. “What
makes you think na tutulungan kita?”

Umayos ito ng upo. “You see, I met that girl named Taliah, proclaiming she’s your
brother’s fiancée. She’s irritating and bitch—”

“You’re also irritating, what makes you different?” pagpuputol ko dito.

Alright, I know cutting someone while they are talking is rude. But I don’t care. I
hate her and I want to give her enough reasons to leave the mansion right away and
never show me her face.

She stilled but she discarded that expression immediately. “You don’t like her.”

“I don’t like you, too,” I said in a dead voice.

“You’re so vulgar.” Tumawa ito na para bang may nakakatawa. “Bakit ba ayaw mo akong
tulungan? Do you like that bitch? Seriously? Oh well, bakit pa ba ako magtataka?
Birds with same feathers, flock together. Kuminis ka lang, Vielle, but you’re still
that Miss Peklat I’ve known many years ago.”

I covered my lips with my hand to supress a laughter, but I failed. I laughed my

heart out and look at her in disbelief.

“I don’t like her, nor you. I don’t like you both.” Tumayo ako at tinignan siya
mula ulo hanggang paa. My eyes shadowed pity. “And to answer what you said, no, I’m
not her anymore. I'm not that miss Peklat many years ago. That stupid little girl
who runs when someone is mocking her is gone.”

I leaned forward just to whisper, “Because now, I can grab your hair, slap your
cheeks, drag you out of our mansion, and block you for coming in. I can do that. I
am Diana Vielle Martinez. I can do what I want with my parent’s full support. Baka
nakakalimutan mong nasa bahay ka namin at nandito tayo sa pool area. See that
water?” I pointed the water glistening with lights. “I can put you there, kaya
kitang lunurin diyan at ipalabas na ikaw ang may kasalanan. No one would side on
you. Kahit pa ang matalik mong kaibigan.”

She chuckled and stood. Umayos naman ako ng tayo at tinignan siya. “You think
papanig sa’yo si Daze? Kung makaiwas nga si Daze sa’yo dati parang meron kang
nakaka—”

“That was before. Iba na ngayon.” I smirk at her. Nagsimula na akong maglakad
papasok ng mansion. Nasa hamba na ako ng pinto nang tumigil ako at walang lingon na
nagsalita. “Concerning about your favor, I won’t say sorry if I won’t help you.”

Tuluyan na akong pumasok ng mansion na blanko ang expresiyon.

There’s no way I’ll help you get my man, Hayden.

--

My eyes settled on the fountain that keeps producing water. I’m at the rooftop of
our mansion, wandering my eyes around our compound and chilling with the wind and
soft music from the pinoy band IV of Spades.

The mansion has three floors, pang-apat ang rooftop. At nandito ako sa rooftop,
nakatingin sa fountain at iniisip ang naging usapan namin kanina ni Hayden. Lahat
ng sinabi niya ay paulit-ulit na bumabalik sa isip ko.

‘I want to steal your brother.’

Pagak akong natawa nang maalala ko ang determinasyon sa kanyang mga mata na maagaw
si Daze. Ramdam ko ang pagkirot ng dibdib ko. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang hirap ng
sitwasyon ko ngayon. Wala akong kalaban-laban sa nararamdaman ko. Wala akong
magagawa sa oras na agawin ni Hayden si Daze. That’s if magpapaagaw si Daze.

Natigil ako mula sa’king malalim na pag-iisip nang may magsalita sa likod ko.

“It’s midnight and you’re here not wearing any jacket. Are you planning to catch
cold?” sambit nito.

Hindi ko ito nilingon at nanatili ang tingin sa fountain. “Is bullying part of
childhood?”

Hindi ito sumagot, sa halip ay naramdaman ko ang pagpatong niya ng jacket sa

balikat ko at ang pagpulupot ng braso niya sa bewang ko. He was hugging me from
behind while his chin is on my shoulders.

“No one deserves to be bullied.”

Mahina akong natawa dito. “Do you remember way back when I was six or seven? We’re
in a beach.” My voice’s croaky. “I can still remember the scene clearly. The way
your eyes eyed my legs with disgust. It was something that I can’t forget.”
I felt him stilled. “What do you mean?”

“Galit ako sa’yo, alam mo ba ‘yun?” My eyes got misty. “Alam mo bang dati-rati, isa
kang superhero sa paningin ko. You saved me from bullies and whenever mother
scolded me for doing anything wrong, you would protect me and sang me to sleep. You
even said I was beautiful even if I have a lots of scars on my legs. You called it
art.”

Binaklas ko ang braso niya sa bewang ko at hinarap siya. “Ngunit nabago ‘yun nang
makilala mo si Hayden, tama? From then on, minsan na lang tayong magkasama. At
‘yung nangyari sa beach? Nang panahon na ‘yun binully ako ng mga kaibigan ni
Hayden. She even named me Miss Peklat for I have a lots of scars. Nung nasa beach
tayo at pinuntahan kita, pinanlabanan ko ang hiyang naramdaman ko. Of course, I
want to show you that grandma’s swimsuit gift to me was nice and I like it. Pero
anong natanggap ko mula sa’yo? You eyed me with disgust, kasabay ng pambubully sa
akin ng mga kaibigan ni Hayden.”

“Love...”

“For more than decade, I lived that trauma. Simula nang araw na ‘yun, nagtanim na
ako ng galit sa puso ko para sainyo ni Hayden. I lived in fear of showing off my
skin because of the scars. I even risked my life just to make myself flawless. Kasi
naisip ko, in that way baka maraming magmahal at makipagkaibigan sa’kin.” I
chuckled and throw my gaze back into the horizon. Humigpit ang kapit ko sa handrail
at nanginginig ang mga kamay ko. “I hated you for making me feel miserable. At
buong akala ko ay makakaya ko nang harapin si Hayden after these years. Ikaw nga
nagawa kong mahalin, e. I was even planning to show off to her the moment we’ll
meet. Na ito na ako, na hindi na ako si miss peklat dati.”

“Why are you telling me this?”

Binalingan ko ito at pumatak ang isang butil ng luha sa pisngi ko. “Dahil galit ako
sa sarili ko.”

“What?” His voice full of confusion.

“Dapat galit ako sa’yo, e. Dahil sa’yo at ni Hayden, namuhay ako sa takot at hiya.
Pero hindi, e. Hindi ako nakaramdam ng galit. Alam mo kung ano ‘yung nararamdaman
ko? Takot at ang isip ko ay paulit-ulit na naglalakbay sa nakaraan. And it makes me
wonder, kung mananatili pa rin bang marami ang peklat ko, mamahalin ko pa rin ba
ako?”

“Damn, love.” He run his fingers through his raffled hair. Napahilamos ito sa
sariling mukha at tinignan ako. “Mahal kita kahit marami kang peklat sa katawan. I
already told you that was an art—”

“Kung ganon bakit mo iniwas ang paningin mo noong nakita mo ako. Pinauwi mo pa ako
at hinayaang pagsalitaan nila Hayden ng masasakit na salita.” Tuluyan nang bumuhos
ang luha ko.

“Hindi ko iniwas ang paningin ko dahil nandidiri ako. I just hate seeing you
showing off your skin—”

“Kasi may peklat—”

“— because that’s my property, damn it!” He brushed his hair again while looking at
me. “I already love you since then. Bakit hindi mo makita ‘yun?”

Hindi ako nagsalita. I just stood there, holding the hand rail with my right hand
and my left were covering my mouth to supress a sob upon escaping my lips. Masuyo
niya naman akong hinila at niyakap ng mahigpit.

“I didn’t love you because you are now flawless. Mahal na kita dati pa. Please,
don’t jump into conclusions like that.”

He was caressing my back and the warmth of his chest were somehow comfortable.

Hindi ko alam kung ano ang dapat maramdaman ko. Magaan ang loob ko dahil nailabas
ko na ang hinanakit na matagal ko ng kinikimkim sa kanya at sa bestfriend niyang—
speaking of which...

“She came back and told me she’ll steal you,” mahinang usal ko habang nakakulong sa
bisig niya.

He moved his head to look at me, not taking off his arms around my waist. “Who?”

“Hayden.” I look up at him. “She asked me to help her steal you from Taliah.”

“She said that?” puno ng pagtataka nitong tanong.

I nodded. “Yes. Grabe ka, may Taliah na, may Hayden pa.”

He raised his eyebrows on me. “What did you replied to her? I mean, what did you
response to Hayden?”

“Of course, I said no. I’m never gonna help her steal my man.” Sinamaan ko ito ng
tingin. “Subukan mong magpaagaw, Jaden. Hindi ako magdadalawang isip magpakasal
bukas kay Arthemis Ledwidge.”

His expression got darker. The wind blows some strand of his hair and they fell
just above his eyelids. “Hindi naman talaga ako magpapaagaw.”

Inirapan ko ito at muling sinubsob ang aking mukha sa kanyang dibdib. I felt him
tightened his embrace.

“I will not let anyone steal me away from you, nor anyone steal you away from me.
You are mine and mine alone.”

Senyorita Anji

Chapter 22
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Chapter 22

"Ang aga pa naman masyado para umuwi kayo," sambit ni mama habang nakangiti ng
malungkot kay Art.

Art smiled apologetically. "Something happened po, e. Mom and dad flew last night
that's why I need to follow them pronto."

Tumango naman si mama at ngumiti. "Mag-iingat kayo, ah. Balik ka kaagad dito kapag
natapos mo na 'yan."

Art smiled brightly and kissed my mom's cheek. Bumaling naman ito sa akin at muling
ngumiti. "So, see you?"
"See you," I smiled and let him kiss my forehead.

He said something happened on their business in their country and they need the
Ledwidge's heir presence kaya heto siya at humihingi ng paumanhin sa biglaang mga
pangyayari. And actually, I think this is a good thing since I won't be forced to
move in a single roof with him.

"Bye." He waved his hands as he turned his back and walked towards his car.

Inayos ko naman ang pagkakasukbit ng bag sa aking balikat at folders na hawak ko. I
checked the time on my wristwatch. Tinignan ko naman ang notifications baka
sakaling may nagchat na sa gc namin.

Someone cleared their throat making me avert my attention to the one who created
the noise. Nangunot ang noo ko nang mapansin ko ang matalim nitong mga tingin na
para bang may kasalanan ako.

Problema nito?

"Daze," sambit ni mama. "Hayden went home last night, pero ang sabi niya ay babalik
siya ngayon dahil may lakad daw kayo."

Ako naman ang nagtalim ng tingin dito. May lakad? Hmm.

"Wala kaming lakad," he exhaled. "Anyway, I'm taking Diana to school and I have a
meeting today. We'll go ahead, ma."

Mother's forehead creased. "Hindi man lang ba kayo kakain?"

"Ma-li-late na si Diana," he replied coldly.

Hindi na umangal si mama nang halikan siya ni Daze sa noo bago ako hinawakan sa
pulso at hinila— no, kinaladkad niya ako patungo sa nakatambay niyang Camaro.

Hindi na ako nakapag-paalam pa kay mama nang buksan niya ang pinto at pinapasok
ako. He closed the door and turn around to enter the driver's seat. Pansin ko ang
pananatili ng madilim na expresiyon nito na kahit pinaandar na nito ang sasakyan.
Ngumiwi ako at hinubad na suot ko at pinatong ito sa aking kandungan.

I buckled my seatbelt as he maneuvered the car out of our compound. Nanatili ang
nakakabinging katahimikan sa'ming dalawa. And I decided to break the silence.

"May lakad pala kayo ni Hayden."

"Why did you let him kiss you?"

Nagkatinginan kami nang magsabay kaming magsalita. He immediately fixed back his
attention to the road.

Napaawang ang bibig ko sa tanong nito. "That was a friendly kiss, Daze."

Hindi ito kumibo. Nanatiling nakatingin ito sa kalsada at wala talaga akong balak
pansinin.

"Daze."

"Oy, Daze."

Sinundot-sundot ko ito sa tagiliran ngunit wala pa rin itong kibo. His eyes
remained on the road no matter how many times I called his name.

"Kuya, pansinin mo naman ako, o." I pouted. "Sige na kasi."

I keep tickling his waist to no avail. Mukhang wala nga itong balak pansinin ako.
But suddenly, and idea crept into my mind.

Ngumiti ako ng matamis dito. I leaned towards his direction and cling my arms on
his. "Love..."

He glance at me with his infamous knotted forehead. "Oh?"

Napangiti ako. I rested my head on his shoulders and held his hand that was holding
the gear level, guiding it to my bare legs. Dahil nga naka skirt ako, malaya niyang
nahahawakan ang hita ko.

A smile made its way to my lips when I felt him slightly gripped my legs. "Galit ka
ba sa'kin?"

"No," he answered. "I was mad of the thought of you letting that fucker kiss your
forehead. That's my job."

Humagikhik ako sa tono ng pananalita nito. "Are you jealous?"

"Of course, not!" he roared, glancing at me from time to time. "Bakit naman ako
magseselos?"

I smiled sweetly at him. "Love," I called using my soft and husky voice. "Mahal
kita."

The grim look upon his face suddenly disappeared and was replaced by a smile. "Mas
mahal kita."

I felt the car stopped, tumingin ako sa unahan at napagtantong nakared ang traffic
lights. Sumimangot ako. "Gutom na ako."

He caressed my legs and spoke. "Dadaan nalang tayo sa drive thru. What do you want
to eat?"

What do I want to eat? Hmm.

A sardonic smile appeared on my lips as my eyes dropped on his crotch without him
knowing it.

"Wala sa drive thru ang gusto ko kainin." Ngumiti ako ng matamis dahil sa naisip
kong kapilyahan.

He look at me with a creased forehead. "What do you want to eat then?"

My left hand that was encircled on his arms, dropped on his notch. I felt him
stilled and look at me with his eyes filled with lust. "This..."

"What—"

I pressed my forefinger on his lips to cut him. Inalis ko ang pagkakahipo ng

kanyang kamay sa'king hita at tinanggal ang pagkakakabit ng seatbelt. Muli kong
tinapunan ng tingin ang traffic lights at napansing nasa red pa rin ito.

Tinapon ko ang bag sa backseat kasama ang folder at humarap sa kanya. I leaned in
and captured his lips. Ramdam kong natigilan ito ngunit kalaunan ay tumugon din. I
smiled between our kisses and my hands expertly unbuckled his belt. Agad ko namang
binuksan ang kanyang zipper at binaba ang suot niyang boxer.

"What are you doing?" he breathed.

I kissed the tip of his nose. Hinila ko palabas kanyang alaga at napangiti nang
makitang tayo-tayo ito. I smiled at him first before lowering my head and kissed
the tip on his cóck. I heard him took a deep breath.

I look up at him and stuck out my tongue to lick it. Kita ko ang pagtaas-baba ng
dibdib nito habang paulit-ulit kong dinidilaan ang kanyang alaga.

"Love," he groaned.

I smiled at him before I spit on his cóck and without any warning, I inserted his
dick on my
mouth. My hand that is holding him started to move up and down as I suck him. Rinig
ko ang mahina nitong daing habang dinidilaan ko siya.

I felt him holding my hair as I suck, and licked him. Inipon niya sa isang kamay
ang buhok ko at siya mismo ang naggiya ng galaw ko. He would always groan whenever
my tounge touches the hole on the tip of his cóck.

"Love, fuck."

Itinukod ko ang isang kamay sa kanyang hita habang patuloy na nagtaas-baba ang ulo
ko. I opened my mouth really wide and deeped my head down giving him a deepthroat.

"Tangina, Diana. Ang sarap ng bibig mo," he cursed after cursed.

Sabay kaming napaigtad nang biglang may humampas sa likod ng sasakyan. I saw him
took a quick glance at the back with a questioning and lustful look before glancing
in front. Muli na naman itong nagmura at inapakan ang silinyador. I smiled with his
cute reaction and continued sucking him.

I sometimes nip the tip of his cóck making his body jolt. My free hand played his
balls before I licked it.

"Love, maaaksidente ta... tayo."

Hind ko ito pinakinggan. Pinag-igihan ko ang ginagawa ko hanggang sa makaramdam ako

na malapit na siya. Muli kong sinubo ang kanyang pagkalalaki at binilisan ang galaw
ng aking ulo. His hips were moving and all I did is to accept it and hear him moan.
Moans that are like the soundtrack of my life.

"Fuck!"

Bigla kong naramdaman ang pag-agos ng likido sa loob ng bibig ko, ang iba ay umagos
pa palabas ng bibig ko. Napangiti kaagad ako at walang pagdadalawang isip na
nilunok ang natirang katas sa bibig ko.

Hinugot ko palabas ang kanyang pag-aari at pinaglandas ang dila ko sa kahabaan

nito. I licked every cum on his cóck and even took a suck on his balls. Nang
matapos ako ay saka lamang ako umayos ng upo at nakaharap sa kanya. My hand's still
holding his cóck and still moving.

And threw me sideway glances. Ang kamay na pinanghawak niya sa buhok ko ang ginamit
niya para tabigin ang kamay kong patuloy na gumagalaw at dinala ito sa kanyang
bibig.

"You swallowed it?" Magaspang nitong tanong.

"Well..." I looked down at his still hard díck and smiled widely. "I did. You
tasted salty, my cup of taste."

He chuckled. "I never thought you knew that kind of thing."

I leaned in and kissed his lips. Panandalian lang 'yun dahil baka mabunggo kami.
"I'm not Diana Vielle Martinez for nothing."

His eyes flashed raw lust and desire. Hindi na ako nagtaka nang hawakan nito ang
gitna ng hita ko at walang sabi-sabing pinaglandas ang daliri nito sa hiwa ko.

"Tonight, on your condo, I will eat this." He glanced at me. "Did you get me?"

Napalunok ako at tumango. He smiled and I helped him closed his pants.

I would probably lying if I say I'm not looking forward for tonight.

--

“Well, well, well.” Tinaasan ako ng kilay ni Fiona kasama ang mga alipores niya.

Hindi ko mapigilang mapairap sa inaakto nito. “Ano na namang kailangan mo, Fiona?
Nag-abang ka pa talaga sa gate para sa’kin, ah.”

She showed me her phone and the video of me and professor Micheal talking alone
inside the classroom was playing. It was taken yesterday, obviously.

“Alam ko na kung bakit running as suma-cumlaude ka. Kasi palihim mong nilalandi si
Professor Micheal.” She chuckled. “Akala mo siguro wala akong mga mata sa paligid,
Vielle.”

Mahina akong natawa dito. “Your source must be a very poor source. Try hiring an
effective one.”

I saw how her hand balled into fist. “Slut!”

Natigilan ako sa narinig. Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito, mababakas ang gulat sa mga
mata ko.

“What did you just say?”

Come on, it wasn’t me who asked that! Ang boses na ‘yun ay nanggaling sa taong
kakarating lang. At dahil nakatalikod sila Fiona sa pwestong ‘yun, kailangan pa
nilang lumingon upang makilala kung sino ang nagsalita.

“Daze,” Fiona mumbled and she stilled.

Kahit ako ay nagulat sa pagdating ni kuya. Kasama pa nito ang lalaking sa tingin ko
ay kaibigan ni kuya. They are both expressionless while looking at us.

“Did you just called her a slut?” mariing bigkas ni Daze. He grabbed Fiona’s arms
tightly.

Pumiglas si Fiona habang ang kanyang mga alipores ay nagdikit-dikit na animo’y

pinagalitan. 
Nilapitan ako ng kasama ni kuya at kinuha ang dala kong folder at bag. He held my
elbow and guided me inside my brother’s car. Binuksan niya ang backseat at doon ako
pinapasok.

“Sandali, si D— Kuya?” I asked.

He look at me using his very cold eyes. “Let him handle everything, young
Martinez.”

Napilitan akong pumasok sa loob at agad naman niyang sinarado ang pinto at muling
bumalik sa pwesto nila Daze at Fiona. Wala akong ibang magawa kundi panoorin ang
expresiyon sa mukha ni Fiona na parang batang nahuli ng kanyang mga magulang at
pinapagalitan.

Tumagal pa sila ng ilang minuto sa labas bago binitawan ni Daze ang braso ni Fiona
na agad naman hinimas ng huli, bakas na bakas ang sakit sa mukha nito. Daze turned
his back on them and walked away from them.

Pumasok sa loob ng passenger’s seat ang kaibigan ni Daze habang siya naman ay
dumiretso sa driver’s seat. He closed the door and buckled his seatbelt.

Wala akong imik. Pinaandar na nito ang sasakyan at pinausad paalis. Silence filled
the car as we drove into the unknown destination. Kahit ang kaibigan ni kuya at
hindi nagsasalita. He was busy typing on his phone.

“Fuck...”

My brother’s friend cursed out loud. “They still got no lead.”

I saw Daze glancing at me through his rearview mirror and answered his friends.
“What about the CCTV footage?”

“Sira daw ang CCTV ng bar ng mga oras na ‘yun.” He frustratedly brushed his fingers
through his hair and took a deep breath. “I’m desperate to find her.”

“Keep calm, Ice. She will show herself soon,” sambit ni Daze.

I remained silent. Paminsan-minsan akong sumusulyap sa rearview mirror at

napapansing sinusulyapan rin pala ako ni Daze. I choose to look out of the window,
watching the houses and people as we passed by.

Hindi ko namalayan na nakatulog na pala ako. Nagising nalang ako nang maramdaman
kong may bumuhat sa’kin at parang lumutang ako. I tried lifting my eyelids to know
where are we but the irritating brightness of the lights flashed before my eyes
making me shut my eyes once again.

“Stay still. Malapit na tayo.”

Hindi na ako nagsalita pa. I encircled my arms on his neck and rested my head on
his shoulders. Muli akong nakatulog sa bisig niya, siguro ay dala ng pagod ko sa
buong araw na activities sa school.

Naalimpungatan ako nang maramdaman kong may pumupupog sa’king mukha ng halik. I
yawned and rubbed my eyes. Dahan-dahan kong binuksan ang mga mata ko at napangiti
nang makita ang nakangiting mukha niya.

“Time for dinner, love.”

Tumango ako dito at tinulungan niya akong bumangon. Naglibot ako ng paningin para
makumpirma kung nasaan ba talaga ako ngayon. “What excuse you said to them this
time?”

He chuckled and leaned in to capture my lips. “Thesis.”

Napailing ako dito. He help me get off from the bed. Bahagya akong napaatras nang
dumakwang ito. All I thought is that he’ll kiss me, but he didn’t. I felt him tying
my hair while looking at my lips.

Kapilyahan na naman ang pumasok sa isip ko nang dilaan ko ang ibabang labi ko.
Seducing him.

“Damn,” was all he said before capturing my lips.

Natatawa ko itong tinugon at napakapit sa kanyang balikat para kumuha ng suporta.

He gently bit my lower lip before pulling himself away.

“Let’s go. The dinner’s waiting.” Lumapit ito at bumulong, “Let’s eat first before
I eat you.”

My checks heated and looked away making him chuckle in amusement.

Damn, Daze Jaden Martinez.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 23
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24
Chapter 23

Napangiti ako nang matapos kaming kumain. Daze was busy rubbing tummy while I'm
busy cleaning the table. Tahimik lamang kaming dalawa. Hinugasan ko muna ang mga
pinggan bago ko siya hinarap.

"Let's sleep?" I asked with a wide smile on my face.

"Nah." He shook his head and stood. Napaigik ako sa gulat nang bigla niya akong
buhatin at pinatong sa ibabaw ng counter. "I'm still hungry."

Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay. "You want to eat more? Magluluto ka pa?"

Mabilis pa sa alas kwatrong umiling ito sa sinabi ko at nginitian ako ng matamis.

Ngiting may binabalak. At huli na ang lahat nang maramdaman ko ang pagkapa ng kamay
niya sa gitna ng dalawang hita ko.

"I told you I'll eat this."

"Daze—"

My words vanished into thin air as he captured my lips for an ardent kiss. Wala sa
sarili akong napakapit sa kanyang balikat at bahagyang pinisil ito habang tinutugon
ang kanyang halik. Ramdam ko ang kamay niyang minamasahe ang dibdib ko.

"Love," he moaned.

Napasinghap ako nang bigla niya akong itulak pahiga sa mesa at walang pag-
aalinlangang hinila pababa ang suot kong slacks. I gasp when I heard a ripping
sound of a cloth.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito. "Please, don't tell me you ripped my panty?"

He chuckled. Pilyo niyang hinipan ang pagkababae ko na ikinasinghap ko. "Then I

won't."

"What the fuck— ohh.."

Napaliyad ako nang walang pag-aatubiling dinilaan niya ang kaselanan ko. My body
trembled on his sudden move. The way his tongue expertly flicked on my mound made
my whole being shivered.

My breathing hitched when he sucked my clit and made a circular movement using his
tongue. I felt his hand moved to touch my breast, squezzing and pinching my
nipples. He used his other hand to spread my legs wider, giving him more access on
my mound.

"Hmm," he groaned. "You taste good. I love it."

"Daze— ohh.. right there.."

Inabot ng kamay ko at wala sa sariling pinagduldulan siya sa kaselanan ko. I'm

starting to lose my sanity. Heat curled down my spine as he keep on licking,
sucking and biting my clit.

Pinilit ko ang sarili kong bumangon upang makita ang pinaggagawa niya sa kaselanan
ko. And I can say that there's a difference between feeling his lick than seeing
how he did it.

Desire rushed through my viens watching him licking me like a fucking ice cream
while closing his eyes. Dagdag pa sa pagnanasa ko ang isiping nasa kusina kami. It
gives me the thrill even knowing nobody would enter my condo.

"Fuck, lick me more!" I moaned outloud.

Tinukod ko ang aking siko sa counter upang alalayan ang sarili ko habang ang isa
kong kamay ay hawak-hawak ang buhok ni Daze. Gripping his hair tightly. My legs
encircled around his neck, pulling him more closer to my feminine and licked me
more.

My body start bending backwards to feel his tongue started entering my core. Hindi
ko maiwasang sumigaw sa sarap tuwing kinakagat niya ang clit ko. Biglang nawalan ng
lakas ang braso ko at muli na naman akong napahiga sa mesa.

"Fuck, faster!"

Naramdaman ko na ang nararamdaman ko sa tuwing nagsisiping kami. The building

sensation inside my tummy that I want to release.

"Ahh..." Inabot ng daliri ko ang aking kaselanan upang sana ay mahawakan ang aking
sarili nang tibigin niya ang kamay ko.

"Let me handle this," he said.

Wala na akong ibang nagawa kundi ang umungol nang umungol. "Daze, fuck, lick me
more! Faster!"
My hips starting to move on his own, my legs are trapping his head and pulling him
more closer to my mound, and my hand gripping his hair tightly.

"Ayan na ako," paos kong tugon.

Humigpit ang kapit ko sa buhok niya at bumilis ang aking paghinga. I gasp for air
as I release a long moan.

"Ahhh..."

My body spasm in pure bliss. Biglang nawalan ng lakas ang buo kong katawan at
lumupaypay nalang sa mesa. He continued licking me while I just lay there, looking
at the lamp above the table, and feeling his tongue as it cleans my mound.

After licking me, he gently pulled me up to sit and look at me with a wide smile on
his face. His eyes flashed raw desire and my body tingled on the sight. Kinabig
niya ang batok ko para sa isang mainit na halik.

He bit my lower lip for an entrance. I immediately let him in and let him explore
my mouth. I can even taste my own cum on his mouth. And I like it.

I like it when he tastes like me.

"I love you," he murmured between our kisses.

Tumigil ito sa paghalik sa akin at tinitigan ako sa mata. He caressed my cheeks.

Dahil sa
pagtigil ng aming halikan, nasagot ko ang sinabi niya.

"I love you, too."

He smiled widely and kissed me once again. My arms encircled on his nape, my legs
straddled on his waist, and his hands holding my butt cheeks.

He slapped my butt earning a groan from me. "Want to continue on our bedroom?"

Our? Sounds good on my ears. Nginitian ko ito at siniil ng halik. And that give him
a clue that I do love the idea that popped up inside his head.

He carried me from the kitchen towards the room. He turned off the lights, leaving
the neon light letters lighten the dark room. Ngayon ko lang din napansing pula ang
kulay ng ilaw na kanina’y purple.

“It’s red,” I whispered out of the blue.

“Yeah.” He kissed my cheeks and nibbled my earlobe making me moan. “It’s red.” 

My moan turned into a gasp when he suddenly throw me into the bed. My body bounced
at the softness of the mattress as he leaned in and towered above me. He captured
my lips and his hand is caressing my thigh.

“Ohhh, fuck,” I moaned.

My body bent backwards and my legs parted to give him full access on my womanhood.
I felt his hand touched my mound, tracing my labia up and down.

“I want you,” he murmured and kissed the back of my ear.

He used his fingers to separate the lips of my feminine and played with my clit. My
mouth formed an ‘o’ due to uncontrollable pleasure.

“I want you...” I let out a moan. “I want you, too.”

I felt him smiled as he bit my earlobe. Bumangon ito at napasinghap ako nang bigla
niya akong baliktarin padapa sa kama. He slapped my buttcheks making me moan.
Napasinghap ako
nang punitin niya ang blouse ko.

“That’s my uniform— ahhh!”

He cut my sentence by pushing himself inside me without any warning. I sucked my

breath and dropped my head on the mattress: biting the duvet to supress my loud
moan. My hand gripped the bed sheets as I keep moaning.

His hand reached for my breast and the other hand of his was used to held my waist.
Nakaluhod ako sa kama, ang mga kamay ko ay nasa aking uluhan at mahigpit ang kapit
sa bedsheets.

“Fuck, it feels so good.”

I think I just lost my sanity and all I could ever think is the waves of pleasure
that almost made me crazy. Ramdam ko ang bawat pagsagad ng ari niya sa kaselanan ko
na ikinatirik ng mga mata ko.

“Love, you’re so tight.” His voice hoarsed. 

My moan got louder and louder, specially whenever he slapped my buttcheks. Kapag
ginagawa niya ‘yun ay mas lalong nadadagdagan ang pagnanasang nararamdaman ko. 

I just keep writhing and moaning caused by the pleasure. The dim room filled with
our groans and moans. Ramdam ko rin ang pag-iinit ng pang-upo ko dahil sa paulit-
ulit niyang paghampas.

His thrust suddenly became faster, like a desperate man who wanted to reach
something. His hand that was squeezing and playing with my nipples, was now
touching my clit: creating a circular motion on its hood in a fast pace.

“Fuck, Daze! Deeper— ohh..”

My hands gripped the gray duvet tightly. Something’s building inside my tummy that
I badly want to release. My hips start moving and accepting his every thrust. Sa
bawat sagad niya sa loob ko ay ang pagpakawala ng ungol ko. 

“I’m near, fuck, faster— ohhh! Shit!”

Itinukod ko ang aking siko sa kama upang inangat ang aking sarili. I began twerking
my butt that made him groan.

“Love,” he moaned.

He stopped thrusting and guided my hips to move. Few more twerks I did and I
finally let go of the sensation I was feeling a moment ago.

“Fuck!” he cursed as I felt his semen filling my core.

My body dropped on the bed and he is, too. May inabot siya sa drawer ng nightstand
at iniabot ito sa’kin ngunit agad din itong binawi. He pulled himself up and guided
me to lay comfortably on the bed.
Siya mismo ang nagpunas sa pagkababae ko gamit ang inabot niyang tissue sa’kin
kanina. He look at me with a smile on his face. Maaliwalas ang mukha nito sa kabila
ng madilim na silid na ang tanging nagliliwanag lang ay ang neon lights na kulay
pula.

“Can I ask you a question?” tanong ko sa paos na tinig.

Nagpatuloy lang ito sa pagpunas sa binti ko. “Hmm?”

“Why are you not wearing any protection whenever we do this?” I’m always drinking
my contraceptive pills to avoid unwanted pregnancy, but I’m really curious. “Aren’t
you afraid of impregnating me?”

Ramdam kong natigilan ito ngunit hindi man lang ako nilingon. Hindi ito tumugon sa
tanong ko na ikinadismaya ko. I know what’s running in his mind, and that’s
insanity. I can’t be pregnant with his child that’s why I’m drinking pills without
his knowledge.

--

Naalimpungatan ako sa isang tapik sa’king pisngi. I slowly open my eyes to adjust
from the brightness of the surrounding. Bumungad sa’kin ang mukha ni Daze. He eyed
me worriedly which makes me wonder why.

“Good morning, my sunshine.” He greeted me. “How’s your feeling?”

He held my arms to assist me to sit. Doon ko lang din napagtantong masakit ang ulo
ko at
parang nanlalamig ako. My eyesight is a little blurry which made me wonder.

“A-anong oras na?” Napangiwi ako nang makaramdam ako ng hapdi sa gitna ng aking
hita. “Why are you still here? Should you be on your office and working your ass
off?”

Umupo ito sa kama at dumampi ang kamay nito sa noo ko. “No one’s going to school or
work.”

“What?” My forehead knotted. “Why?”

“You are sick, love,” he replied. Kinuha niya ang kamay ko at hinalikan ang likod
nito. “So I won’t be working my ass on the office because I’m gonna take care of
you.”

I didn’t know how it happened. I just suddenly felt butterflies flying on my

stomach and my heart just melted. Watching him kissing the back of my hand like I
mattered the most and saying he won’t be working just to take care of me made my
heart skip a beat.

This man never fails to make my heart skip a beat.

“B-bakit naman ako magkakasakit?” I asked.

He shrugged. “I called a friend, who’s a doctor. He told me that maybe you’re

having a fatigue. You didn’t told me you’re tired. I’m sorry, love.”

Hindi ako sumagot. I was just staring at his handsome face full of sincerity and
eyes filled with love. Hindi ko maiwasan maisip kung paano kami umabot sa sitwasyon
na’to. The old cold and ruthless man had gone for good and is replaced with a very
soft and gentle version of him. And I like his changes.

“Hey.” He gently tapped my cheeks. “I’ll go get your breakfast, okay?”

“My breakfast?” My brows went in straight line. “What about you?”

He chuckled. “I mean, our breakfast.”

Tumango ako dito at hinalikan niya ang noo ko bago tumayo at naglakad palabas ng
kwarto. Bumangon rin ako sa kabila ng pagkahilo dala ng lagnat at binuksan ang tv.
Hinanap ko rin ang bag ko at mabilis na kinalkal ang loob ng bag. I finally found
what I am looking for.

Mabilis ko itong binuksan at agad na ininom ito. Binalik ko rin ang contraseptive
pills at ang dala-dala kong water bottle sa bag at bumalik sa kama. I covered
myself with the heavy and thick duvet and watched tv.

Bumukas naman ang pinto at pumasok si Daze, dala ang isang tray na may lamang
pagkain. A smile was plastered on his face as he walked towards my direction.
Nginitian ko ito at maagap na tinanggap ang tray.

“Breakfast in bed?” nakangiti kong tanong.

He nodded. “Yes.”

Tumabi ito ng upo sa’kin at siya mismo ang nag-umang ng kutsara sa bibig ko. I just
smiled at him and opened my mouth to accept the food.

We spent the day on the bed. He turned off our phone and we watched tv. Tahimik
lang kami. Sometimes we laugh on the drama and he would curse whenever the
character do stupid things. Ang kamay niya ay nasa bandang tiyan ko habang ang isa
ay nasa aking hita.

It was around 4 in the afternoon when a thought popped inside my head. “Malapit na
ang birthday mo.”

He nodded. “Yeah.”

Umayos ako sa pagkakasandal sa kanyang dibdib. His hand that was touching my tummy,
is now on my breast, his fingers playing with my nipple which made my feminine wet.
Dang, he really know how to turn me on.

“What present you want to receive on your birthday?” tanong ko sa malumanay na

tinig.

“Hmm.” His hand dropped back on my tummy and gently caressed it. “Just you.”

Napaangat ang tingin ko dito. “Just me?”

He nodded and kissed my forehead. “Just you, not leaving me, making this moment a
lifetime, and not lying to me.”

His eyes were full of sincerity and tenderness. Ngunit mababasa ko rin sa kanyang
mga mata na parang may gusto pa siyang idugtong.

“Are you sure about that?” I tried making the atmosphere lighter.

His hand left my thigh and lifted my chin. “Yes.

“When it comes to you, I’m always sure with every decision I’m making.”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 24
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Chapter 24

“Can you sing a song for me?” I asked in a low voice.

Madilim ang silid dahil alas diyes na ng gabi at nakapatay ang ilaw. Tanging ang
neon lights na bumalik sa kulay lila ang nagbibigay ng kaunting liwanag sa silid.
Nakabukas ang kurtina sa malaking bintana ng kwarto. It was a glass window and that
makes us saw the starry sky.

“I’m not a good singer, love,” he said.

“I don’t care. Just sing me a song.” I look up at him. “Please?”

Nakaupo kami sa couch na kaharap ang malaking bintana. Nakakandong ako sa kanya
patalikod. His arms wrapped around my waist and his chin is on my shoulders.
Matapos naming kumain kanina ay ganito na ang ginawa namin. Our phones are still
off and we just don’t care if somebody was trying to reach us.

“Hmm, okay.” Hinawakan nito ang kamay ko. He intertwined our fingers as he start
singing a song.

‘You know I want you,

It’s not a secret I try to hide.’

Nangunot ang noo ko at agad siyang nilingon dahilan para matigilan siya sa
pagkanta. He look at me with a questioning face.

“I kind of heard that song before.” Mas lalong nangunot ang noo ko sa pilit na pag-
alala kung saan ko narinig ang kanta. “Wait...”

Pilit kong hinahalungkat sa isip ko kung saan ko narinig ang kanta. And suddenly,
something pops up in my head. “You sang it on bora! I remember. You hummed that
song.”

“Yeah.” He smiled. “It’s a song that describes your mindset and mine.”

“Bakit? Ano ba ibig sabihin ng kantang ‘yan?” My brows raised.

He chuckled. Muli niya akong pinatalikod sa kanya at iniyakap muli ang kanyang
braso sa bewang ko. I leaned on his chest and listened to him continue singing.

‘I know you want me

So don't keep sayin' our hands are tied
You claim it's not in the cards
And fate is pullin' you miles away
And out of reach from me
But you're here in my heart
So who can stop me if I decide
That you're my destiny?’

His cold and melodic voice echoed the whole room. Napakalamig nitong pakinggan na
para bang diniduyan ka patulog. Nakakakalma sa pakiramdam.

‘What if we rewrite the stars?

Say you were made to be mine
Nothing could keep us apart
You'd be the one I was meant to find.’

Natigilan ako nang unti-unti kong maintindihan ang pinapahiwatig ng kanta.

‘It's up to you, and it's up to me

No one can say what we get to be
So why don't we rewrite the stars?
Maybe the world could be ours

Tonight.’

Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa kanyang kamay nang tumigil siya sa pagkanta.

“That was my mindset, love,” he whispered against my ear. “I want you and I can’t
hide it.”

Natahimik ako. Silence invades the room. Tanging hininga nalang na’min ang
maririnig sa buong silid.  My hand unconsciously touched my necklace.

“I have a question, love,” mahinang sambit ko.

He hummed. “What is it?”

“Paano kapag matutuloy ang kasal namin ni Art? Paano na tayo? Are we gonna end this
relationship—”

“Hell, no!” he cut me. Siniksik niya ang kanyang mukha sa leeg ko. “You can’t be
married with him.”

My hand gripped his arms wrapped around my waist gently. “How?”

“I have plans, love,” he murmured and I felt him plant small kisses and my neck.

Tumango ako at bumuntong hininga. He sure have plans, but the question is, can we
able to accomplish his plans?

“Anyways...” He guided my waist for me to stand. Muli niya rin akong pinaupo,
ngunit sa pagkakataong it ay nakatagilid na. His arms immediately wrapped around my
waist. “I have something to give you.”

Muli na namang nagkaroon ng gatla sa noo ko. “Ano ‘yun?”

A smile appeared on his lips. Bahagya itong tumagilid at may hinugot sa kanyang
bulsa. Nawala ang atensiyon ko dito nang mapansin ko ang pagdaan ng kumikislap na
eroplano sa langit. Pinanood ko ang eroplanong dumaan sa malawak na langit nang
maramdaman ko ang paghawak ni Daze kamay ko.

From the sky, my attention drop on the cold metal that touches my hand and it slid
down on my ring finger. That’s when I realized, he just inserted a ring on me.
Pilit kong inaaninag ang singsing at napasinghap nang makilala ang singsing na ‘to.

“T-this is grandma’s—”
“Yeah,” he cut me. “It is grandmom’s.”

I look at him with a questioning face. “Why are you giving me this?”

“Well...” Hinawakan niya ang kanang kamay ko at tinignan ang singsing na suot ko.
“She told me to give this ring to the girl I want to settle down, have kids, and
spend my whole lifetime with.

“And I want to spend it with you. I want to settle down with you. I can’t imagine
taking someone into the altar if it’s not you.”

Ngumiti ako dito. My heart is shattering in every sweet word coming out from him. I
leaned in and kissed his nose as I close my eyes.

I know everything won’t last forever, but I hope it won’t be as early as I

expected.

Nakaramdam ako bigla ng pagkaantok kaya inaya ko na siyang matulog. Nauna akong
tumayo at hinintay siyang makatayo. He held my waist and guided me towards the bed.
Umakyat ako sa kama at ganon din siya.

I covered the comforter just right on my waist. Hinarap ko siya at agad na sumiksik
sa katawan niya. He wrapped his arms around me and letting my head rest on his left
arm, making it as my pillow. Humugot naman ako ng malalim na hininga at napangiti
sa security na nararamdaman ko.

“Good night, love,” he whispered.

Ngumiti ako at mas sumiksik pa sa katawan niya. “Good night.”

He hummed and the calming silence enveloped the whole place. Biglang nawala ang
antok ko sa mga pinag-iisip ko.

Ang isipin na may hangganan ang lahat ang ikinakatakot ko. Parang ayoko nang
matapos ‘to.

Suddenly, a lone tear drop upon my eyes. Agad ko itong pinahiran bago dumampi ang
luha sa braso niya. I lifted my gaze at him as I listened to his even and calm
breathing. He fell
asleep that fast.

My hand caressed his cheeks and a sad smile appeared on my lips.

If God permits me to stay with you until the very end of our life’s journey, then I
will.

--

Mabilis na lumipas ang mga araw, ngunit hindi pa rin alam nila mama na may
namamagitan sa amin ni Daze. Konti nalang din ang oras ko magpahinga dahil sa mga
sunod-sunod na activities.

Today is the first week of march, next week ang graduation namin at bukas ang
birthday ni Daze. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang gagawin namin sa birthday niya. But
mama told us to be home tonight to celebrate his birthday.

Napahilot ako sa’king sintido at humikab. Ilang linggo na ang nakakaraan ngunit
hindi pa rin bumabalik ang pamilya Ledwidge sa bansa na siyang ikinapasalamat ko.
“Hoy, Vielle.”

Napaangat ang tingin ko dito na may pagtataka. “Bakit?”

“Gusto lang kitang batiin ng congrats.” She smiled widely. “Talagang ikaw nga ang
naging suma cum-laude.”

Kimi ko itong nginitian. I would probably sound rude if I asked her who she is.
She’s my classmate for almost a year, yet I don’t even know her name. “Thank you.”

“Alam kong hindi mo ako kilala kaya magpapakilala ako.” She smiled and extended her
hands. “I’m Keith Gil.”

Tinanggap ko ang kamay nito. “Nice to meet you.”

She chuckled on what I said. “Grabe, we’ve been in a single classroom for almost a
year. Tapos ngayon lang tayo nakipagkilala.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” I nodded in agreement.

Umupo siya sa isang bakanteng arm chair na katabi ng upuan ko. “Sa totoo lang,
gusto kitang maging kaibigan. Kaso mailap ka, e. Hindi ka namamansin kaya nahihiya
akong lumapit. But since it’s almost the end of our journey in school, kinapalan ko
na ang mukha ko.”

Nginitian ko nalang ito. Pasimple kong sinipat ang kanyang mukha at doon ko
napagtantong may tinataglay din pala siyang ganda.

“Are you half something?” I asked while picking up my crampled papers.

She nodded. “I’m half-mexican. My father’s side.”

Tumango rin ako sa sinabi niya. Well, you can really guess she’s a half foreigner
by just looking at her features. A dark brown hair that was tied in a ponny tail,
her thin almond shaped eyes are adding more attraction to her light brown iris—
it’s almost similar to gold.

“Congratulations, too.” Bumuntong hininga ako matapos mamulot ng kalat ko. “You’re
the cum-laude, right?”

“Oo,” she replied and nodded. “Ayokong lampasan ang katalinuhan ni Fiona. Takot ko
lang ma-bully.”

Hindi na ako nagsalita. Saktong tumunog ang bell na nagsasabing awasan na namin.
Nagpaalam na si Keith at nagmamadaling lumabas ng silid. Sumunod naman ako dito at
bahagyang nagtaka sa kumpulan ng mga estudyante sa hallway.

I just shrugged the curiosity and continue walking. Baka nag-aantay na si Daze sa
labas ng school kagaya ng palagi niyang ginagawa nitong mga nakaraang linggo.
Despite of our both busy schedule, we still manage to find time for each other.

Natigilan ako sa paglalakad nang may humarang sa’king isang bulto. Nag-angat ako ng
tingin dito at nakilala na ito ‘yung kaibigan ni Daze.

“Anong kailangan mo?” I look behind him to find Daze on sight. “Ikaw lang mag-isa?”

He nodded. “He told me to fetch you.”

Hindi na ako nakapagsalita pa nang hilahin niya ang pulso ko at nagsimulang

maglakad pababa sa sa building. Mahigpit naman ang kapit ko sa bag kong hindi ko
man lang nagawang maisukbit
sa balikat ko.

“Get inside.”

He opened the passenger’s side door and guided me to enter. Umikot naman ito sa
sasakyan saka pumasok. I buckled my seatbelt as my mouth spit some questions.

“Nasaan siya?” I asked, pertaining to my man.

He glanced at me before starting the car’s engine. “He’s waiting for you to come
home.”

Tumango nalang ako. Pinausad na niya ang sasakyan paalis ng unibersidad. Pinili
kong sumandal sa’king kinauupuan at tumingin sa labas ng bintana.

“I know your relationship with each other,” he broke the silence between us. “And
it has no good for the both of you.”

Napalingon ako dito. “What do you mean?”

Hindi ito sumagot. He just glance at me and fixed back his eyes on the road. Doon
ko lang din napansin na ang daang tinatahak namin ay hindi na ang daan papuntang
mansion ng mga Martinez.

“We’re going to Batangas. It’s your brother’s order,” pangunguna niya.

Tumango ako. “Are you my brother’s butler?”

“No.” Napailing ito. “I’m Isaiah, and I’m doing this favor in exchange of
something.”

“What something?” Okay, chismosa mode activated.

He glanced at me before he replied, “None of you business.”

Nalukot ang itsura ko sa pabalang nitong sagot. Then moments later, I came to
realized something.

He’s Daze’s friends. So I guess they share the same attitude.

--

Nagising ako sa marahang pag-uga sa balikat ko. I lifted my eyelids open and
Isaiah’s face came into the view.

“Move. Uuwi pa ako,” sambit niya.

Naglibot ako ng paningin sa paligid at disoriented na bumaba ng sasakyan. Muntikan

pa akong matumba kung hindi lang mabilis ang kamay ni Isaiah na alalayan ako sa
braso.

“Salamat sa paghatid,” I murmured.

“Get inside,” was all he replied before he entered his car and maneuvered it out
until I see no shawdows of his car anymore.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at humihikab na naglakad papasok sa building kung

saan nakatirik ang condo. Bitbit ko lang ang bag ko dahil tinatamad na akong ikawit
pa ito sa balikat ko.

Nang makapasok ako sa loob ng building at dumiretso sa elevator na saktong

nakabukas. The moment the door closed, I pressed the floor of my condo and leaned
against the wall. Humikab ulit ako sa pangalawang pagkakataon, kasabay nu'n ang
pagbukas ng pinto.

I went out of the elevator and walked towards my condo’s door. I swiped my cardkeys
and turned the knob to open the door. Bumungad naman sa’kin ang maliwanag na
paligid. The smell of cigarettes lingered on my nose mixed with alcohol.

My eyes darted on two people, who are eyeing me also. Nagulat ako nang mapansin ko
ang isang estrangherang babae na nakaupo sa long sofa at may sigarilyong nakaipit
sa pagitan ng kanyang dalawang daliri.

“Hey, there,” she greeted in an american accent and stood.

Napatingin naman ako kay Daze na nakaupo sa single sofa at nakatitig sa kawalan.
He’s holding a bottle of vodka which I silently thanked God. It’s better than
smoke.

“I’m Lyla.” She extended her hand. “Lyla Martinez Tolentino.”

Nangunot ang noo ko. “The owner of the most expensive—”

“Oh, cut it.” Kinuha niya mismo ang kamay ko. She shook our hands and smile.
“Kanina pa kita inaantay.”

Kung gulat ako kanina dahil nandito siya, mas nagulat ako ngayon dahil nakaramdam
ako ng pagseselos. Okay, I know it’s a crap. But I also don’t know why I am feeling
this. It’s kinda weird. She’s just our cousin.

“Lasing si Dj,” she started. “Kanina pa kami sa mansiyon nag-iinuman. He asked me

and Ice to take him here kasi gusto niyang matulog dito. Ice told me he’ll pick you
up. Take good care of him.”

She tapped my shoulders and walked passed me. Narinig ko ang pagbukas at pagsara ng
pinto at naiwan na lang akong nakatayo at nakatitig sa lalaking nakaupo sa sofa,
tulala at may hawak na alak.

I took a deep breath and walked towards him. Maingat kong kinuha sa kanya ang hawak
niyang vodka. He look up at me.

“You’re here.”

Inirapan ko ito. “It’s your damn birthday, love. Why are you wasted?”

Nilapag ko ang bote sa centre table at nakapamaywang na humarap sa kanya. I was

about to spit some nags when he suddenly grabbed my  waist and I fell into his lap.
His arms wrapped around me like I’m about to vanish any moment by now.

Kinapa ko ang kamay niya at bahagyang pinisil ito. “Are you okay?”

Umiling ito at binaon ang mukha niya sa leeg ko. “Huwag mo akong iwan, ah.”

I stilled for a moment. Hearing him saying those words like a kid asking not be
left behind, is something that pierced my heart.
“It’s my birthday, and I dreamt of something horrible last night.” He chuckled
nonchalantly. “I dreamt of you, leaving me for another guy. Kaya ako naglalasing
ngayon.

“Ang isipin pa lang na mawawa ka at iiwan ako, parang hindi ko na kakayanin,” he

said.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. “Hindi kita iiwan.”

He look at me. “You promise me that?”

I nodded. “I... I promise.”

He smiled and captured my lips. “I love you.”

“I love you, too,” I whispered and kissed him back: a passionate one.

Can I be able to fulfill my promise?

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 25
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Chapter 25

Nagising ako sa paramdam na parang hinuhukay at binabaliktad ang tiyan ko. Mabilis
akong bumangon sa kama at kahit nanlalabo pa ang aking mga mata ay tinakbo ang
distansiya ng banyo.

I abruptly slammed the door open and went towards the sink. Yumuko ako at tuluyan
nang sumuka. My hand gripped the white sink as I keep on throwing with nothing but
a slimy saliva.

Nanghihina akong nag-angat ng tingin sa salamin. My eyes got misty due to the throw
ups I've made. Nagmumog ako at naghilamos bago lumabas ng banyo. And I just came to
realized that I was naked.

Dumiretso ako sa kama at muling humiga. Kakagising ko lang ngunit pakiramdam ko

pagod na pagod ako. Medyo nahihilo pa ako sa hindi ko malamang dahilan.

The clock alarmed which caused me to abruptly got up and sat. Hawak-hawak ko ang
noo ko habang pinapatay ang umuugong na alarm clock. A sticky note on the table
catches my attention. Kinuha ko ito at binasa.

'I've cooked you breakfast. Hindi na kita ginising dahil alam kong pagod ka kagabi.
Eat up, now. I called your professor that you'll be late. Get your ass up, love. I
love you

- Daze.

I took a deep breath and smiled after reading the note. This man never failed to
flutter my heart.

Bumangon na ako sa kama sa kabila ng pagkahilo at pumasok sa loob ng banyo. Naligo

muna ako at nagbihis. I choose to wear the black pants and white halter top.
Hinanda ko naman ang jacket kasi alam kong hindi ako papapasukin ng guard ng school
sa suot ko.
Lumabas ako ng kwarto at dumiretso sa kusina. Binuksan ko ang takip sa mesa at
napangiwi sa amoy ng sinigang. That's my cue.

I ran the distance towards the sink and vomit. Suka lang ako ng suka kahit wala
akong maisuka. I felt my stomach turned upside down smelling that food. Bakit
gano'n?

Nagmumog ako at muling humarap sa deriksiyon ng mesa. I took a deep breath before
covering my nose and walked towards the table. Kinuha ko ang bowl na pinagsidlan ng
sinigang at dali-daling pinasok ito sa oven. I closed the oven before I finally
blew a loud breath.

"Fuck, I almost die with that smell."

Muli akong naglakad patungong mesa at umupo na. I started eating alone while
thinking about this sudden behavior of mine. It's kinda weird.

Napatingin ako sa oven kung nasaan ang sinigang. I didn't turned it on though.
Ayokong kainin 'yun kahit pa naglalaway ang bagang ko sa sinigang. It's my favorite
food, damn it. But why?

Naputol ang pagmomonologo ko nang marinig kong mag-ring ang phone sa kwarto. Bagot
naman akong tumayo at naghugas ng kamay sa lababo bago naglakad patungong kwarto.

My phone keeps ringing above the pillow I used. Agad ko itong nilapitan at tinignan
ang caller. My eyes rolled upon reading the caller's ID. Anong kailangan ng satanas
na'to?

"What's up?" Bungad ko dito at nagsimulang maglakad pabalik sa kusina.

"Finally, you answered my call." I heard him breathe out. "I have something to
ask."

Nangunot ang noo ko, saktong nakarating ako sa kusina kaya agad akong umupo sa
silya. "Ano?"

"Magpinsan kayo ni Lyla Tolentino, 'di ba?"

Mas lalong nagkasalubong ang kilay ko sa tanong niya. "Paano mo nalaman?"

"It doesn't matter." He exhaled like he'd been rehearsing this question for almost
a decade. "Anong gusto niya sa isang lalaki?"

--

"Again!" sigaw ng instructor. "Miss Martinez, are you okay? Kanina pa tayo
nagpapabalik-balik dahil tulala ka. Ayos ka lang ba?"

Everyone looked at me which made me uncomfortable. Tumango nalang ako. "I'm fine.
Magpapahinga muna ako."

Hindi ko na hinintay ang sagot ng instructor at agad na naglakad patungo sa mga

nakaarrange na upuan for graduation. Hanggang ngayon ay masakit ang ulo ko. Bahagya
pa rin akong nahihilo at pagod ako.

Umupo ako sa isang silya at sumandal sa backrest. I closed my eyes for a minute
before I heard someone called my name. And it was Keith Gil.
"Ayos ka lang ba, Vielle?"

Nagdilat ako ng mga mata at tinignan siya. Worry is very visible on her face. And I
can sense her genuine gesture as she slightly touched my forehead using the back of
her hand.

So this is what it feels like of having a friend? Tumango ako dito. "I'm fine."

"Then why are you pale? 'Yung mata mo naman parang inaantok pa. Kanina ka pa din
tulala. Ayos ka lang ba talaga?"

I nodded. "Iihi lang ako."

"Samahan kita," she said and smiled sheepishly. "Tinatamad na ako maglakad sa
stage."

Napailing nalang ako dito bago tumayo. Nagsimula na akong maglakad at ramdam ko ang
pagsunod nito. Malapit lang din ang comfort room kaya agad rin kaming nakarating. I
went inside and pee.

After peeing, I washed my hands on the sink while staring myself at the mirror.
Ngayon ko lang mapagtantong namumutla nga ako. Siguro ay aabsent ako mamaya.

Nang makalabas ako ng banyo ay bumungad sa'kin si Professor Micheal at Keith na

nag-uusap. They turned their gaze at me and professor immediately come near me.

"Ayos ka lang ba? I saw what happened on the stage," bungad nitong tanong sa'kin na
nagpairap sa'kin ng palihim.

I composed my fake smile. "I'm fine, professor. If you excuse us."

Hinawakan ko ang kamay ni Keith at hinila siya palayo sa pwesto namin kanina at
dinala patungong canteen ng school.

"Hey, that was rude," sukmat nito nang makaupo siya sa isang upuan sa harap ko.
"Why are you so grumpy today?"

Dumukdok ako sa mesa at humikab. "I don't know either."

I heard her blow a loud breath. "Ano ba kasing nangyari sa'yo?"

Nag-angat ako ng ulo dito. I rested my elbow on the table and I placed my chin on
my palm. Naglibot muna ako ng paningin para lang mapansin na kami lang dalawa ang
nandito.

"To be honest..." I exhaled. "I don't know. May nangyaring weird lang sa'kin
kanina."

Ginaya niya ang posisyon ko bago sumagot. "Gaya ng?"

Okay, story telling time. "It's kinda weird. My ma— mother cooked me my favorite
food but when the aroma of that food lingered on my nose, I vomitted in an instant.
I was awaked by having the feeling like my stomach just turned upside down, also.
And that's weird."

Tumango-tango ito habang nakikinig. "'Yun lang?"

"Nahihilo rin ako. Mag-a-absent siguro ako mamaya. Bukas na ako papasok." Humikab
ako at muling dumukdok muli sa mesa.
Silence conquered us both for a moment before she called my name, "Vielle..."

"Bakit?" I didn't bother looking at her. Nahihilo na naman ako.

"Buntis ka ba?"

Wala sa sarili akong napaayos ng upo at tinignan siya ng diretso sa mata. "A-ano?"

"Buntis ka ba?" She showed me her phone screen. "I searched about your symptoms and
it shows you're having the symptoms of pregnancy. Hindi naman siguro imposible 'yun
kasi may fiancé ka na, 'di ba?"

Wala sa sariling hinawakan ko nag singsing na binigay ni Daze sa'kin. I saw Keith's
gaze dropped on my ring finger and her eyes widened.

"Oh my gosh!" Inabot niya ang kamay ko at tinignan ito ng maigi. "This ring is so
fabulous!"

Napaiwas ako ng tingin dito. "T-thanks."

"I'm happy for you. Gwapo naman ang mapapangasawa mo, e. Ta's may parating na
anghel na," she said and her smiled turned into a pout. "But you still need to
double check it, though. To make sure."

"Check?" My forehead creased.

"Yup." She nodded. "You should buy pregnancy test kit or just go directly to the
doctor to make sure you're bearing your little Vielle."

Napatayo ako ng wala sa sarili at umiling. “You must be kidding me, Keith.”

Nagtataka ako nitong tinignan. “What’s the matter? It’s not a big deal because
you’ll be getting married soon, right?”

Napailing ako dito at nangangalaiting kontrahin ang simabi niya, ngunit kapalit
naman nito ay ang pagkabunyag ng katotohanan sa’min ni Daze.

Nanghihina akong napaupo sa kinauupuan ko kanina at wala sa sariling napahawak

sa’king sintido. My heart’s pounding so fast I can’t catch up.

What if totoo ang sinabi ni Keith?

Paano kung buntis talaga ako?

P-paano na’to?

--

My hands are trembling as I went out of Keith’s car. Yes, she volunteered on taking
me here. Wala rin daw siyang gana magparticipate kaya siya na mismo naghatid sa’kin
dito sa Batangas.

“Ayos ka na ba dito?” she asked as she stepped out of the car.

Nilingon ko ito at tipid na nginitian. “Salamat sa paghatid.”

“Ayos lang, ‘no.” She chuckled. “Nga pala, tatlo ‘yang binili ko para makasiguro
ka.”

I nodded. She bid her goodbye and entered her car again. I watched her drove until
her car is out of my sight. Napagdesisyonan ko na ring pumasok sa loob ng building
at dumiretso sa elevator.

I pressed my floor’s button and leaned on the wall. My mind’s in chaos. Paulit-ulit
na nagrereplay sa isip ko ang usapan namin ni Keith kanina.

Then my mind starting to drift back these past few days. We keep doing it.
Nakakaligtaan ko na rin ang uminom ng contraceptive pills dahil masyadong naging
busy ako sa mga araw na nagdaraan.

Is it possible?

The elevator opened and I immediately walked towards the condo. I swiped my keycard
and entered the room. Ini-lock ko muna ito bago dumiretso sa kwarto na inuukupa
na’min ni Daze.

I tied my hair into a bun and dig for the pregnancy tests na binili ni Keith
kanina. Tinapon ko agad ang bag ko sa kama at pumasok sa loob ng banyo.

My knees are trembling and my hands were cold as I slowly took off my pants and
undergarnments. Binuksan ko ang tatlong test kit gamit ang nanginginig kong kamay.
I glanced my reflection on the mirror before I started.

I collected my urine in a small cup and took a deep breath before dropping it on
the urine stream. I even closed my eyes after dropping on the three kit.

I counted to ten before I opened my eyes. Bumungad sa’kin ang repleksiyon ko sa

salamin na animo’y may sakit sa sobrang putla. Dahan-dahan kong kinapa ang isang
kit at dahan-dahan itong inangat palapit sa mukha ko.

Please, God. Make it negative. Piping pagdarasal ko.

“Oh my God!”

Wala sa sarili kong nabitawan ang pregnancy test nang makita ko ang dalawang guhit
sa test window. Bumaba ang tingin ko sa dalawa pang test kit at mas lalong nanlumo
nang makitang dalawa rin ang guhit nilang dalawa.

“Oh my god...” My knees fell on the ground and I began crying my heart out. “H-
hindi ‘to pwede...”

Parang nahihibang akong umiiling nang mag-isa habang pilit na inaalis sa isip ko
ang katotohanang... buntis ako...

“I-I can’t bare his child... no...”

My palms keep on sweating cold and my knees never stopped trembling. Sobrang bigat
ng dibdib ko at hindi ko ito matatanggap.

I can’t bear his child...

Please, not another sin...

Napasandal ako sa malamig na pader ng banyo habang patuloy na umiiyak at hawak ang
tiyan ko.
God, I know I’m such a sinner. Ngunit bakit ganito pa?

This baby doesn’t deserve to carry the sins me and Daze did.

Napatakip ako sa’king mga mata at humagugol. I just keep crying and crying my heart
out.
Kasi ano pa bang magagawa ko? Hindi ko kayang ipalaglag ang bata. Since I was a
kid, I never supported child abortion.

P-pero pagkakamali ang batang nasa sinapupunan ko. Am I still subject for a crime
upon aborting him?

Napailing din ako sa’king naiisip. Hindi ko ipapalaglag ang bata. I-I can’t. I just
can’t.

Sa kabila ng nanginginig kong mga tuhod ay pinilit ko ang sarili kong tumayo at
iligpit ang mga pregnancy test na nagkalat sa sahig. Binalot ko ito gamit ang isang
cellophane at humarap sa salamin. I wiped my tears away before going out of the
comfort room and stormed out of the condo.

Saktong paalis na sana ang isang janitor na may bitbit na dalawang itim na garbage
bag.

“Kuya!” I called him out and ran to his direction. “Pwede po bang pasama na rin ito
sa itatapon?”

Tumango naman ito. “Sige po, ma’am.”

Tinanggap niya ang supot at nagpasalamat muna ako bago sumara ang pinto ng
elevator. I took a deep breath and just like a zombie, I walked lifelessly towards
the condo and went in.

Naglakad ako palapit sa sofa at binagsak ang aking sarili doon. Humiga ako at
pinikit ang aking mga mata. My eye’s a little bit hoody for crying a moment ago.

Dala ng pagod sa pag-iyak ay nakatulog ako ng hindi ko namamalayan. How cool God
did to make us sleep after crying out hearts out. It’s like he’s consoling us
through sleeping... and I thanked him for that.

Nagising nalang ako sa isang nakakakiliting hininga sa leeg ko. Nagdilat ako ng mga
mata at bumungad sa’kin si Daze na nakapatong sa ibabaw ko at hinahalikan ang leeg
ko.

“Good evening, my love,” he whispered through my ear.

“G-good evening,” I replied.

My mind drifted to the revelation I discovered this afternoon. And I wonder what
will be his reaction after hearing it?

Bahagya kong pinilig ang aking ulo. No, I’m not gonna tell him a thing.

“Dinner’s ready,” he said. “The professor called me this afternoon. He said you
went home because you’re sick. Nagpunta ako sa mansiyon pero wala ka doon and I
expect you to be here that’s why I came here as fast as I can.”

Nakatitig lang ako sa mukha nito at ngumiti. He helped me to get up and he was busy
pinching my cheeks as we walks towards the kitchen.
Pinaghila niya ako ng upuan at siya mismo ang naglagay ng pagkain sa pinggan ko.

“I can feed myself, love.” I slightly groaned.

He shook his head. “No. Naabutan ko pa ang sinigang sa loob ng oven. You didn’t eat
that that’s why I cooked a new one.”

Dumapo ang paningin ko sa isang bowl na may takip. And the moment he opened the
cover, I almost puke. Pinigilan ko ang sarili kong dumuwal dahil kaharap ko siya. I
don’t want him to worry about me.

He said grace before we started eating. Halos gusto ko nang takpan ang ilong ko sa
amoy ng sinigang. Nilagyan niya ng sabaw ang kanin ko at iniumang ito sa bibig ko.

Pigil hininga ako nang ibuka ko ang aking bibig ngunit agad rin akong tumayo at
tumayo sa sink. Humawak ako sa edge ng lababo at habang patuloy na nagduduwal. My
eyes got teary as I keep vomiting nothing.

Someone caressed my back. “Are you okay?”

Walang lingon akong tumango at nagmumog. I heaved a deep breath before facing him.
“Can you cook me something else?”

“What’s wrong with sinigang? Don’t like it anymore?”

Ngumiti ako dito at hinalikan ang kanyang baba. “Just cook me bicol express.”

“Bicol Express?”

I nodded. “Doon lang ako sa kwarto. Antayin ko matapos kang magluto.”

Hindi ko na inantay ang sagot nito. I pecked a kiss on his lips before walking
towards the room. Nang makapasok ako ay hinanap ko ang phone ko at natagpuan ko ito
sa ibabaw ng night stand.

Kinuha ko ito at agad na tinipa ang number na balak kong tawagan.

I bit my lip for a moment. Ngunit agad din akong nakahinga ng maluwang nang mag-
ring ang phone. Thank goodness his phone is roaming!

Ilang ring pa ang nangyari bago may umangat sa tawag.

“Hello?”

“Art...”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 26
5.93K
321
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Chapter 26

"May we now call on the top students of University of the Philippines under
Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Management..."

Palinga-linga ako sa paligid. Mama and papa aren't still around. They didn't even
texted me that they'll be late! Si Daze ay hindi rin makakasipot dahil may
importante siyang meeting ngayon.

Wala sa sarili akong napangiwi nang ang ini-on ni Fiona ang mini electric fan na
hawak niya at nanuot sa ilong ko ang nakakairitang amoy ng pabango niya.

I glanced at my wrist watch, malapit nang tawagin ang pangalan ko. Tangina naman,
nasaan ba sila?

"Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Management summa cum-laude, Diana Vielle

Martinez..."

Tuluyan nang nasira ang itsura ko nang tawagin na ang pangalan ko. Parang gusto
kong maiyak sa hindi ko malamang dahilan. Okay, I know it sounds weird but these
past few days my emotions are too sensitive. Konting bagay na hindi ko gusto,
naiiyak na ako. And it's not me!

Napilitan akong tumayo at naglakad paakyat ng entablado kahit walang kasamang

magulang. They keep announcing my academic awards but I heed it no attention.
Maingat akong umakyat ng stage dahil natatakot akong matapilok. Ayos lang sana kung
hindi ako nagdadalang-tao.

Unang sumalubong sa'kin si Misses Cabello na nag-abot sa'kin ng diploma. She

extended her hands and I gladly accept it.

"Congratulations," she said and smiled widely. "Bakit wala ang mga parents mo?"

I bit my lower lip. "I guess they are-"

"Sorry, I'm late." Someone from behind spoke making me and Misses Cabello look
behind my back. Napangiti agad ako nang makita ko si Daze na nakikipagkamay kay
Misses Cabello.

He look at me and smiled before gesturing me to continue walking. Nakasuot pa rin

ito ng business attire at medyo pinagpapawisan. Maybe he ran the distance between
here and his car.

"Congratulations!"

Ngiti lamang ang sinasagot ko sa kanila. The superintendent handed Daze the medal.
Nakipagkamay muna ito bago humakbang paatras. He turned his attention on me and
smiled.

"Congratulations." His eyes flashed happiness which made me feel... guilty.

"Thank you," I mouthed.

Ngumiti ito at sinuot sa'kin ang mga medals na iniabot ng superintendent kanina. I
can't help but to chuckle watching him happily giving me the medals.

Hinapit niya ang bewang ko at tinuro ang cameraman. I smiled at the camera, holding
my diploma and him holding my waist. Saglit lang kami sa stage dahil marami pang
sumusunod sa'kin.

He held my hand and guided me as we descend from the stage. Nang makababa kami ay
nagulat ako nang kunin niya ang diploma sa kamay ko at walang sabing binuhusan ng
alcohol ang palad ko.

"That Professor held your hand," he said and his eyes shot glares at the man on
stage. Professor Micheal. "I don't want you getting infected."
Napailing nalang ako dito at napangiti. Bumalik kami sa pwesto ko at siya naman sa
likuran ko kung saan nakaupo ang mga guardian or parents ng mga estudyante.

I saw how my batchmates eyed my man like a prey. Kung totoo may maghuhugis puso ang
mga mata, siguro ganito na ang nangyayari sa kanila. Kung makatitig sa taong kasama
ko ay akala
mo walang bukas.

Nang makaupo ako at naramdaman ko ang paglalaro niya sa buhok ko. I felt him
combing my hair and smelled it.

"Bakit nga pala ikaw ang pumunta dito?" I asked.

"They told me they can't make it. Naghahanda sila for your party tonight," he
replied.

Sasagot pa sana ako nang mamataan ko si Keith na palapit sa pwesto namin kasama ang
ina niya na may malawak na ngiti.

"Mister Martinez," her mother greeted and extended her hands soon as she's in front
of us. "Glad to meet you here."

Tumayo naman si Daze at pormal na tinanggap ang kamay ng mama ni Keith. Hindi na
ako magtataka kung kilala nila si Daze, he is a businessman. May sarili na ring
kompanya si Daze kaya hindi imposibleng matunog ang pangalan niya sa business
world.

"Keith..." Kinalabit ko ito. "Nasaan ang papa mo?"

Nilingon ako nito na may malungkot na ngiti. "He passed away six months ago."

Napalabi naman ako. "Sorry about that."

"It's fine." She chuckled. "Ayos na rin ang pakiramdam ko. Isa pa, may asawa naman
na si mommy, e."

"That's good to hear," I replied.

Since we became friends, she never talked about her family. Ngayon lang kung kailan
ako nagtanong.

"Actually it's not." Ngumiwi ito na para bang may naalalang hindi kaaya-aya. "My
mom's new husband: my step dad, is much younger than her which I really conclude is
weird."

"Why weird?" Wala na sa event ang atensiyon na'min kundi nasa usapan na. "If they
love each other-"

"I'm gonna tell you next time." Her eyes darted behind my back. "Now's not the
right time."

Napalingon naman ako sa tinitignan nito at namataan ang isang lalaking nakasuot ng
isang blue faded pants and white shirt. He's wearing a sun glasses and it matches
his matte rolex watch. Tindig at postura pa lang, mahahalata mong may ibubuga.

Nilapitan niya ang pwesto nila Daze at nakipagkamayan din. He took off his glasses
and give my man a tight smile.
"Lace," Daze greeted.

Mahina akong sumipol. "He's a hunk."

"He is," Keith agreed.

Mahina lang naman sana 'yun ngunit nilingon ako ni Daze at sinamaan ng tingin. I
just answered him with a sheepish smile and turned my attention back to Keith who's
now suddenly annoyed.

"Anong nangyari sa'yo?" nagtatakang tanong ko.

"I just hate his presence," she murmured. "I hate his intimidating presence, cold
aura and monotone voice. Irritating."

I raised my brow, nodding my head. I can perfectly feel what she's feeling at the
moment. Ganyan din ang ugali ni Daze bago kami umabot sa-

Nanlalaki ang mga mata ko itong tinignan. "Do you have a thing with him?"

"What? No!" Agad itong umiling. "There wasn't, Vielle. I just hate him, period."

Tumango-tango nalang ako at pinanliitan siya ng mata. Who am I to judge anyways?

Maybe she just hate him for replacing her father's place on her mother's heart.
Something I can't completely relate.

--

"Yes, ma. I'm with Da- Kuya." I took a deep breath. "Can we just celebrate
tomorrow? I
badly want to rest, ma. Masyado po kasi akong napagod nitong mga nakaraang araw
kaya pwede po ba? Uuwi rin ako bukas."

"Aw, my poor baby," mother replied on the other line. "Anyways, sure. I'll move the
celebration tomorrow. Just rest on your rewarded condo. Also tell your brother to
come here immediately. Hayden is here."

Nakagat ko ang aking ibabang labi at nakaramdam ako bigla ng pagkairita. "Sige, ma.
I'll hang up."

Hindi ko na inantay si mama na sumagot. I turned off the call and dropped the phone
on the couch. It bounced and fell on the floor. Wala ako sa mood na pulutin ito.

"Hey-"

"Umuwi ka na." Inirapan ko ito. Damn pregnancy hormones. "Inaantay ka na ni

Hayden."

Nagtataka ako nitong tinignan. "What?"

Mas lalo akong nainis sa pagmamaang-maangan niya. Hindi ko nalang ito pinansin at
nagtungo na sa kusina. There I saw plenty foods above the table which made my tummy
growl.

"Hey, love. Ano ba kasing problema?" Hinawakan niya ako sa siko at hinarap ako sa
kanya. He cupped my cheeks and look at me in the eye. "What's the matter?"

Umiwas ako ng tingin dito. "Mother called and said you should go home. Hayden is
waiting on the mansion. Kaya umuwi ka na."
"Bakit naman ako uuwi?" His forehead creased. "Love?"

Oo nga naman, bakit nga naman siya uuwi? Would I let my man be with some bitch
who's just looking for a chance to steal him away?

I wanted to be selfish, just for tonight. I want him alone. After this... hindi ko
na alam pa.

Ngumuso ako dito at niyakap siya. "Huwag kang umuwi, ah. Dito ka lang."

"Hindi naman talaga ako uuwi."

His arms wrapped around me making me feel secure and safe, but somehow sad and
guilty.

"Kain na tayo. Pinag-aantay na na'tin ang grasya," I said which he agreed.

Pinaghila niya ako ng upuan bago siya umupo sa kaharap na upuan ko. He smiled at me
and asked me to say grace before we began eating. Katulad ng dating gawi, siya ang
naglalagay ng pagkain sa pinggan ko at mga ulam.

We just continue eating until we're full. I volunteered to wash the dishes and told
him to proceed on the living room area which he obeyed. Ako na ang nagligpit ng mga
pinagkainan na'min at naghugas ng pinggan.

After washing the dishes, I opened the cabinet below me and carefully pulled out
the wine that I ordered last week. Inalis ko ito sa kanyang kahon at kumuha ako ng
dalawang wine goblet.

I search on the internet if drinking liqours are just find on pregnant people, and
it says yes if the preggy woman only took small dosage of alcohol. Kahit naman
tutol na tutol ako sa pagbubuntis ko ay wala na akong magagawa. Hindi ako
patutulugin ng konsensiya ko kung sakaling ipapalaglag ko ang bata.

"Love," I called him out.

His eyes that was fixed on the television diverts on me. Agad naman siyang tumayo
at kinuha ang dala kong wine at isang baso. Nilapag niya ito sa center table at
inalalayan akong maupo sa sofa katabi niya.

"Anong pinapanood mo?" I curiously asked, reaching for the bottle to open it.

"Star Wars," he replied.

Tumango naman ako at saktong nabuksan ko ang wine. Ako mismo ang nagsalin ng alak
sa baso niya at inabot ito sa kanya. He thanked me and I just smiled. Naglagay din
ako sa baso ko saka ako sumandal sa dibdib niya bitbit ang baso.

I heard him drank the wine in one gulp while his arms around my shoulders dropped
on my breast.

"It's tender," puna niya. "Much tender than before."

Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa baso. Breast tenderness is normal for pregnant woman
dahilan para kabahan ako dahil sa takot na mabulilyaso ang plano ko.

"Hmm?" I hummed. It's the safest response rather than telling him a lie.
We continue watching Star Wars. Paminsan-minsan akong sumisimsim sa bitbit kong
wine, ayokong uminom ng alak, pero kailangan.

"Love," he groaned after thirty minutes. "I-I'll just go take a pee."

Napangiti ako at nag-angat ng tingin sa kanya. It's taking effect. Walang sabi sabi
kong hinalikan ang labi niya na ikinagulat niya. I placed the glass on the table
and wrapped my arms around his nape.

He immediately recovered from the shock and kissed me back with the same ferocity.
My hands naughtily dropped on his crotch making him groan.

He's hard.

"Love," I murmured between our kiss. "Make love to me."

"What?" Beads of sweat forming on his neck and forehead.

Ngumiti ako dito at hinalikan ang gilid ng kanyang tenga. "Make love to me
tonight."

Unti-unting gumuhit ang masayang ngiti sa kanyang labi.

"Gladly," he replied before locking my lips with his.

--

I stare at his handsome face for the last time. This is the last. We need to stop
this. We need to end this. One of us should give up. And I surrender.

I can't fight for this forbidden love anymore.

I just can't...

"Everything ends here, love," I whispered as tears start streaming along my cheeks.
"I'm not as strong as you."

I caressed his cheeks. He's sleeping peacefully after what we did earlier. It was
tiring. But planned. I planned everything. Since he entered this condo.

"I'm sorry for this selfless decision of mine. But we need to let go." I kissed his
forehead and inhaled his scent. "Maybe, just maybe... In parallel universe, we can
be together. Where you and me, can love each other without looking back, without
doubts and fears. M-maybe.. this moment wasn't for us. Our life wasn't meant to
spend each other's lifetime."

For the last time...

"Good bye, kuya," I whispered as I move myself away from him.

Sana mapatawad mo ako. Piping bulong ko sa aking sarili at tumalikod sa kanya.

Kinuha ko ang isang maleta sa ilalim ng kama na itinago ko para hindi niya makita.
Nandito lahat ng kailangan ko para sa pag-alis. That's why I need to put some drugs
on the wine to knock him off. Ayokong maalimpungatan siya sa mga oras na aalis na
ako. Because I'm sure as hell, hindi siya makakapayag na aalis ako.

Muli akong naglibot ng paningin sa buong silid. This room witnessed the forbidden
love that we keep as a secret. This room heard the promises we made that was now
shattered because of my selfish decision.

Napatingin ako sa singsing na suot ko ngayon at ngumiti ng mapait. Hinubad ko ito

at nilagay sa nightstand katabi ng liham na iiwan ko para mabasa niya kinabukasan.

Tuluyan na akong tumalikod dala ang luggage na dala ko at lumabas ng kwarto.

While making my way out of this condo, my heart starts ripping. It's painful. Halos
hindi na ako makahinga sa sobrang sakit.

As soon as I got out of his condo, I closed the door behind me carefully and
unconsciously
rubbed my tummy in a circular motion.

I'm pregnant with my brother's baby...

But I can't afford to abort it.

Martinez's sixth legacy is inside my tummy..

Chapter 27
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Chapter 27

7 years later...

"Jarren, come here!" Iritado kong sigaw habang dala ang mga laruan niyang nagkalat
sa sahig kanina.

Nilingon ko si Arthemis na puro ng drawing ang mukha dahil sa kagagawan ng magaling

kong anak. Gusto kong humagalpak ng tawa dahil sa itsura niya ngayon. Hindi ko alam
kung bakit hinayaan niya si Jarren na gawin ang kung ano-ano sa mukha niya.

"What?" Inosenteng tanong nito na ikinakunot ng noo ko. Aba, marunong na magpatay-
malisya.

I pointed Art who is now busy wiping off his face using the baby wipes I handed him
a moment ago. "Why did you draw naughty things on your papa's face?"

Jarren pouted and rubbed his nape. "I asked him to play with me and he said he's
sleepy. Moma at Papi is busy that's why I played with him even when he's asleep."

Nakatitig lamang ako sa kanya habang nagpapaliwanag siya. You heard it right. He's
calling Art at papa. I told him to call Art like that because Art insisted to.

Hindi na ako nagulat nang dahan-dahang lumapit sa'kin si Jarren at agad na

pinulupot ang maliit niyang braso sa bewang ko. He hugged me like how he used to
everytime he did something that I never like.

Gumaan naman ang pakiramdam ko dahil sa pagyakap niya. I just came home from work
and I'm having a jet-lag. Naabutan ko nalang si Art na nakasimangot habang nanonood
ng tv at hindi man lang nag-abalang linisan ang mukha.

"I'm sorry, mommy," he said. "I just wanted to make fun with papa because I missed
you."

Guilt rushed over me. Si Art at Mama lang kasi ang nag-aalaga sa kanya. I'm a
flight attendant, swerte na lang ang makatulog ng isang buong araw para sa'kin.
Halos wala na akong oras makipagkulitan sa anak ko sa sobrang abala ko sa trabaho.

I composed my smile and bend over to carry him. Mabilis naman niyang pinalibot ang
braso sa leeg ko at hinalikan ako sa pisngi. "I miss you, mommy."

"I missed you, too," I replied and kissed his forehead. "Do you want me to bake you
pancakes?"

Agad itong umiling. "I know you're tired. Just sleep."

Happiness filled me. Laking pasalamat ko nalang at lumaking matalino ang anak ko.
He comprehend things very fast and he is very easy to taught something. Maalam na
nga ito sa paghahalungkat ng laptop softwares at kalikutin ang kung ano-ano para
mabadtrip si Art. He loves making fun of his papa.

"It's okay, baby. Mom's going to bake your favorite pancakes. Do like that?"

He nodded and smile. "Yes, I like that!"

"Bake me some, too," sabat ni Art sa usapan namin'g mag-ina. I almost forgot his
existence beside me.

"No," angal ni Jarren at sinamaan ng tingin si Art. "Mommy is going to bake my

favorite pancakes, not yours."

Natatawa ako sa bangayan nilang dalawa. They are always like this, and I think it's
Art's way of bonding with him. Kapag may panahong nasisinghalan ko ang bata sa
sobrang kulit at tigas ng ulo, kay Art siya nagpupunta at magkatabi silang
matutulog tapos pagkakinabukasan, magbabangayan na naman.

"I'm your papa, Jarren." Mapanuyang nag-angat ng kilay si Art na ikinahalakhak ko.

"Mahimik na kayo. I'll bake many pancakes. Let's get inside."

Seven years had passed since the night I decided on cutting everything me and Daze
had. For that seven years, I stayed in the mansion of Ledwidge family. Nakakahiyang
isipin na sila ang tumanggap sa'kin sa kabila ng katotohanan buntis ako at hindi si
Art ang ama. Although I saw dissapointment on mama Amelia's face that day, she
still welcomed me and even guided me all through-out my pregnancy.

Nang ipanganak ko si Jarren ay si mama Amelia ang pinakaunang tao na nakabuhat sa

anak ko. Hindi ko alam kung paano nalusutan ng mga Ledwidge ang mga katanungan ng
pamilya ko o kung bakit hindi na nagtanong sila mama sa'kin o kahit kausapin man
lang ako. They secured me that my parents will never know a thing about my
pregnancy until I revealed to them the truth.

"Vielle, may naghahanap sa'yo sa labas." Kinalabit ako ni Art habang nginunguso ang
pintuan.

He got that habit from me. Hindi niya ugaling mangturo ng mga bagay-bagay gamit ang
labi, pero ngayon, kahit nasa malayong kweba, tinuturo niya nalang gamit ang nguso.
Well, what do you expect from Filipinos?

Kinuha niya sa pagkakakarga sa'kin si Jarren. Dumiretso naman ako kaagad palabas ng
mansiyon at bumungad sa'kin ang nakaunipormeng body guard.

"Good afternoon, Miss Martinez. The chopper is really for your flight tomorrow,"
magalang nitong sambit.
I can't help but to roll my eyes heavenwards thinking my instincts was right.
Tagalang ayaw niya talagang mahindian, ah.

Tumango lang ako dito at nagpasalamat. He told me he'll come back tomorrow to fetch
me as what he was told to.

"Sino daw 'yun?" pang-uusisa ni Art nang makapasok ako mansiyon.

He's holding a PS5 at ganoon din si Jarren na nakatutok sa monitor. Both of them
are on the sofa.

"Someone sent a chopper for our ride home," I replied.

I saw how his expression changes that he immediately hide between his nod. "Bake
pancakes now."

Inis kong kinuha ang isang throw pillow at agad na hinampas sa ulo niya. He burst
into laughter while dodging the pillow. Mabilis naman ang kamay kong hablutin ang
buhok niya at sabunutan ito.

"Aray, Vielle. Tama na."

Tama na daw pero tumatawa. Ang hilig niya talaga mamikon, sarap tirisin. Siguro
uutusan ko mamaya si Jarren at lagyan ng mighty bond ang mata ni Art habang
natutulog siya. Nakakainis, e.

"Kung makapag-utos ka, katayin kita, e." Binitawan ko na ang buhok nito at naglakad
patungong kusina.

Kapag nakatutok na si Jarren sa Xbox nila ni Art, wala na itong pakialam sa

paligid. He's focused on what he is doing.

"Mama," I greeted mama Amelia when I saw her as I walked in to the kitchen.

Tumingin ito sa akin at ngumiti. "Oh, Vielle. Nakauwi ka na pala

Nilapag nito ang baso sa sink kaya nilapitan ko ito upang bumeso. "Ngayon-ngayon
lang din, po."

"Ikaw ba 'yung hinahanap ng mga bisita kanina?" she asked.

Tumango ako. "My friend send the chopper for my ride home. Her wedding would in
next week held in Bora at and she wants me to be there."

Mama nodded. "So uuwi ka na ng Pilipinas? Are you ready to face them?"

Natahimik ko sa tanong nito. Dahil sa totoo lang, hindi rin ako sigurado kung handa
na ba akong harapin sila. Natatakot ako sa isiping makikita nila akong may dalang
bata. Lalong-lalo na ang ama ni Jarren. H-hindi ko siya kayang harapin.

Napayuko ako. "H-hindi ko alam, ma."

Mama Amelia didn't know who's the father of my son, no— scratch that. They didn't
knew who's the father. My son having the almost the same physical features of Daze
gives them no hint of suspiciousness on who is his father. Mahirap paniwalaan dahil
magkapatid kami.
Pero wala, e. Sperm cells ni Daze 'yan.
I felt someone touched my shoulders. Nag-angat ako ng tingin kay ma Amelia nang
haplusin nito nag pisngi ko.

"I guess now is the right time to tell them about your son. You can't hide him
forever." She gently pats my head. "Kung gusto mo, pwede ka naming samahan pauwi."

"Hindi na po, ma." Agad akong umiling. "Masyado na po kayong maraming naitulong
sa'kin. S-siguro oras na rin po para magpakita sa kanila at ipakilala si Jarren."

She nodded and pinched my cheeks. "They deserve to know the truth, sweetheart. So
you should. We're just behind your back."

--

"Mommy," Napatingin ako sa anak kong tumawag sa'kin. May hawak itong laruan na
helicopter. "Should I bring this?"

Ngumiti ako. "Bring everything you want to bring, baby. Because we will be living
there for good."

Tumango ito. "Am I going to see Kai again?"

"Yes, baby." Sinarado ko ang maleta ko at ang sa kanya naman ang inayos ko.

"Then are we gonna left grandmoma and grandpapi here?" Inosenteng tanong nito.

Tumango ako at ngumiti. I motioned him to come over and he did. Kinandong ko ito at
nginitian siya. "You will meet mommy's parents there. Your grandmommy and
granddaddy."

Tumango-tango naman ang bata. He asked further questions that I answered as honest
as I can. Matalino naman ang anak ko kaya agad niyang naiintindihan ang paligid.

"Mommy, it's time for my shower," he informed me while pointing his watch that his
grandpapi gave him last year.

Ngumiti ako dito at tinuro ang banyo. Agad naman siyang tumayo at nagtungo sa loob
ng banyo. Niligpit ko na ang bagahe ni Jarren at naghanap ng pantulog sa cabinet
bago siya sinundan sa loob ng banyo.

I helped him showering though I know he can do it himself. Aside from a very
hardheaded kiddo, he's also independent that he doens't need my aid anymore.

"Mommy, am I going to meet him?" he asked in the middle of bathing inside the tub.

Tahimik akong tumango. This six-year old kid knows who is his father. Ayokong
magtago ng kung ano kaya pinaalam ko sa kanya kung sino ang ama niya sa kabila ng
pagkabahala na sabihin ni Jarren ang katotohanan sa oras na magkita sila.

"Yes, baby."

He nods. "Alright, I still can't come to him though."

My forehead knotted. "Why?"

"Because I will just wait on when you'll tell him," he politely replied making me
frown.

“Who told you?"

"Grandmoma did." Yumuko ito. "And I said yes. I will not tell him that I am his
son. I will just wait for you to say it."

Alam ni mama na hindi ako handang ipagkalat kung sino man ang ama ni Jarren, at
alam niyang alam ni Jarren kung sino ang ama niya. She respected my decision, and
I'm happy about it.

Ngumiti ako dito at pinisil ang kanyang pisngi. “I love you, baby.”

“Love you too, mom," he replied. 

Matapos ko siyang paliguan ay inutusan niya akong maligo dahil malapit na daw mag
dinner. Oo, inutusan. Anak na ang nang-uutos sa magulang ngayon. He said he can
take care of himself because he’s already a big boy.

Independent boy you mean.

Matapos kong maligo ay hindi ko na naabutan si Jarren sa loob ng kwarto. I guess he

went down to play with Art again.

Laking pasalamat ko talaga at nandiyan si Art. Sinalo niya lahat ng mood swings ko
dahil sa pagdadalang-tao. I can even recall waking him up in the middle of the
night just to buy me orange.

I choose the black sleeveless satin blouse with its black satin pajyma pair.
Matapos kong magbihis ay tumungo ako sa vanity mirror dito sa loob ng silid habang
nagsusuklay ng buhok. My eyes darted on the cold metal on my neck. His christmas
present. Hinawakan ko ito at napangiti ng mapait. Maraming tanong ang namayani sa
isip ko.

Kumusta na kaya siya?

Na-miss niya ba ako?

Did he even try on searching for me?

May girlfriend na kaya siya? O baka kinasal na sila ni Taliah?

Those are just some of the questions rotating inside my head whenever my eyes
settled on the necklace. Sa tuwing naiisip ko siya ay wala sa sarili akong
napapahawak sa kwentas.

“Mommy, it’s dinner!”

Dumagundong ang matinis na boses ng anak ko mula sa intercom.

I mentally shook my head. One of the things that made me miss him even more is my
son. Kamukha niya si Daze nang kabataan niya, ngunit ang ugali ay magkasalungat.
Jarren is very jolly and talks a lot, while Daze before don't. The thing that makes
them similar is that they are both bossy. Gusto nilang nasusunod ang gusto nila.

Matapos kong magsuklay ay naglakad na ako palabas ng kwarto. I walked downstairs

and saw Art patiently waiting for me. Nginisihan ko agad ito.

“Escort ba kita?” I kid.

He rolled his eyes on me. "Move damn fast, wife."

Hindi na ako nanibago pa sa endearment na ginamit niya. He would always call me
wife
when he’s bored, irritated, and sometimes when he's not in the mood. Ganyan ko na
siya kakilala. Pati likaw ng bituka niya ay alam ko na.

Napailing nalang ako nang mauna itong naglakad patungon dining area at umupo sa
upuang katabi ni mama, habang ako ay dumiretso sa tabi ni Jarren na nakasimangot na
naghihintay sa'kin.

"What's with the face?" natatawang tanong ko sa kanya.

Bumeso ako kay papa bago muling bumaling kay Jarren na hindi pa rin maitsura ang
mukha. Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay at hindi nako nagulat nang taasan din ko nito ng
kilay.

"You are late in table," he said.

Nagtataka ko itong tinignan. "So?"

"You'll say the grace," sabat ni Art. "We have that rule here."

Natatawa akong napailing. This kid never failed to amuse me. If Sam's son is very
caring and loving to her, then mine isn't. Naglalambing minsan pero tinatarayan
ako.

As what my son commanded, I was the one who said the grace before we started
eating. Niluto naman ng head cook nila ang paboritong na'ming ulam ni Jarren na
sinigang kaya marami-rami na nakain ng bata.

"Dahan-dahan," I said while wiping the smudge of ketchup on his lips.

Huminto muna ito sa pagkain at hinayaan akong punasan ang labi niya bago muling
nagpatuloy.

"Naalala ko tuloy 'yung mga panahon bata pa si Art," biglang sambit ni mama. "Mas
madungis pa siya kay Jarren, e."

"Mom," ungot ni Art at sinimangutan si mama. "Shut it."

Natawa naman si papa habang si mama nagpatuloy sa pagsasalita. "He even peed on his
pants after eating because he was so full and can't stand anymore."

Pinigilan ko ang sariling humalakhak dahil nasa harapan kami ng pagkain. Art is
sending me death glares that I just didn't mind.

I'll surely miss Ledwidge's company the moment I'll take a step on Philippines.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 28
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406
Chapter 28

Napasimangot ako nang bumungad sa akin ang pagmumukha ni Sam, nakangiti at may
mapanuksong tingin. She's wearing a blue dress making her look like not a mother at
all.

"Hey, masungit na flight attendant!" she happily yelled and embraced me.
Bumitaw naman sa pagkakahawak ko si Jarren at nakipagfist-bump sa anak ni Sam na
nakangiti ng matipid. He really looks like his father, Ice.

"I'm very happy you make it here, Vielle!" Sam said.

Pabiro ko itong inirapan. "How can I refuse when you already sent the chopper for
us, Sam?"

Ngumiti ng matamis si Sam. "It's time to face your fears, darling. You see, I'm
just like you before."

"Yours aren't forbidden as mine, Sammy," I said.

May kumuha sa mga bagahe namin ni Jarren. Naglibot naman ako ng paningin sa loob ng
airport at bumuntong hininga. Sam held my wrist and pulled me into a walk. Si
Jarren naman at ang anak ni Sam na si Kai ay magkasabay na naglakad.

Sam sent a private chopper owned by the Imperials for us, my son. She invited me to
her wedding day and seriously, it will be held next week. Napag-isipan ni Kuya Ice
na dito sila ikasal sa hindi ko malaman na dahilan. Maybe it's because walang
divorce ang Pinas? Oh, well. Whatever reason is that, I don't care. Isang linggo
lang naman ako dito dahil iyon lang ang araw  na naka-leave ako.

"Sa bahay ka nalang manatili, Vielle," Sam suggested. "You know, para may kasama si
Jarren at nang hindi si Alea ang mapagtripan ni Kai."

Napangiti ako nang mabakasan ko ang frustration sa mukha ni Sam. Isang taon na din
simula nang huli kaming magkita, and I think her baby is already in her one year
old. I'm happy for her and kuya Ice.

I wish I can be this lucky like her. I whispered to myself. Nakakainggit lang dahil
pumapanig talaga sa kanila ang tadhana. Hindi ko maiwasang humiling na sana ganoon
din ang sitwasyon ko. Ngunit hindi. What me and my brother committed was a sin. The
product of that sin was Jarren, the exact replica of my brother. Of his father.

"Congratulations," I said to her.

Tumingin ito sa akin at ngumiti. "Thank you."

Pumasok kami sa isang nakatambay na van. Nasa backseat ang dalawang makukulit na
bata habang kami naman ni Sam ay nasa gitnang bahagi ng van. Nang makaupo kami ay
bahagya niyang pinisil ang kamay ko.

I look at her. "Hmm?"

"Are you ready to face them? I mean, paano mo maihaharap si Jarren sa mga magulang
mo? Are you gonna visit alone or with your son?"

I smiled sadly. "I'll pay them a visit with Jarren. Magrarason nalang ako tungkol
sa kung bakit magkamukha ang anak ko at si Kuya."

"Okay." She nodded. "I heard your brother will be marrying a senator's daughter."
Malungkot ako nitong tinignan.

I smiled. "Hindi na ako mangingialam kay kuya, Sammy. It's his life. Hindi naman
siguro pakakasalan ni kuya ang babaeng 'yun kung hindi niya mahal, 'di ba?"

I felt my heart ripped. But now what? Hindi naman siguro ako tanga para pigilan ang
kasal niya. The day I left his condo, is the day I left his life. Whatever happens
to him doesn't concerned me anymore. Well, yeah. It's quite painful, but I can
handle the pain just fine.

"Ano ba 'yan! Let's not be dramatic here. You came here for my wedding, not to be
sad and
have a dramatic conversation." Umirap si Sam na ikinangiti ko.

Napatingin ako sa labas ng bintana, the weather is fine. But heart isn't. My heart
is bleeding and it's not fine.

"Mommy, is my lola kind?" tanong ni Jarren habang nagmamaneho ako sa aming

sinasakyan.

I glanced at him sitting on the passenger seat and smiled. "Yes, baby."

He's wearing a white tshirt printed with Levi's and a black pants paired with his
favorite shoes. Air force1 colored white. 

Hindi ko makuha sa batang ito kung saan niya nakuha ang pagiging mapili sa
pananamit.

Maybe from his father. Said by a voice inside my head. 

I took a deep breath as I saw the Martinez' mansion. It's time. 

Nang makarating kami sa gate ng mansiyon ay pinara kami ng security.

"Ma'am Vielle? Kayo po pala! Maligayang pagbabalik! Tuloy po kayo," nagagalak na

saad niya.

Pinakitaan ko lang ito ng isang tipid na ngiti bago pinausad papasok sa loob ang
aking sasakyan. 

"Woah. Is that a fountain?" Tinuro ni Jarren ang fountain na nasa gitna ng malawak
na circle.

"Yes, baby." I chuckled when he clapped his hands.

My baby's happiness is also mine. Isa sa mga rason kung bakit nawiwili ako kay
Jarren, at 'yun ay kahit gaano kaliit na bagay ay ina-appreciate niya. 

"We're here, baby." I took a deep breath. 

My palms were sweating cold. Kinakabahan din ako. Kinakabahan ako sa maaring
reaksiyon ni mama kapag nakita niya si Jarren.

"Mommy, are you okay?" tanong ng bata.

Tumikhim ako at ngumiti. "Of course, I am. Let's go?"

Tumango ang bata at tinanggal ang kanyang seatbelt. I moved out from the car and
opened the door for my son. Lumabas naman ito dala ang isang ngiti na nakakahawa
kung tingnan. I smiled and held his small hands. May sumalubong sa aming isang
lalaki at parang nagulat sa pagdating ko. 

"Please park my car." I threw him the keys. 

"M-ma'am Vielle..." gulat nitong anas.

I shook my head. Nang mapantay namin ito, bahagya kong tinapik ang kanyang balikat.
"Park it now. Ibigay mo na lang sa'kin mamaya."

Tumango ito at sinunod ang utos ko. Nagbaba naman ako ng tingin sa anak kong
naglilibot rin ng tingin. 

"This mansion is very big," he murmured. 

Napangiti nalang ako. "Let's get inside?" 

Tumango ang bata. As we took our step someone called my name.

"Vielle?" 

Napaangat ako ng tingin at doon ko nakita ang ina kong maluha-luha habang
nakatingin sa akin. 

"Ma..." I keep fighting with my tears not to fall.

"I-ikaw nga!" Mabilis ang mga hakbang nito at sinalubong ako sa isang mahigpit na
yakap. 

Pansamantala kong binitawan ang kamay ng aking anak upang sagutin ang kanyang
yakap. 

"I missed you!" she exclaimed.

I chuckled. "I missed you too, ma." 

Kumalas ito sa yakap at kinapa ang braso ko. "You're already mature now." 

"Mommy..." tawag pansin ni Jarren dahilan upang magbaba ng tingin si mama dito.

"Uhm..." Inakay ko si Jarren at kinarga. Sinusundan naman siya ng tingin ni mama na

may halong pagtataka. "Ma, this is Jarren Martinez. My son."

"A-anak mo?" Ang luhang nangingilid sa mga mata niya kanina ay biglang tumulo.

Mas dumoble pa ang kaba na nararamdaman ko kanina. "O-opo, ma." 

Napatakip ito ng kanyang bibig. And I thought is that, she'll throw bad and foul
word at me. But I was wrong. She offered to carry my son. 

Halos lumukso sa tuwa ang puso ko nang kargahin na ito ni mama. She's crying. While
Jarren is looking at her questioningly.

"Why are you crying?" biglang tanong ng bata.

"Apo ko..." Niyakap ni mama ang bata na nagpaluha sa akin. "Another legacy of the
family." 

"M-ma..." I stammered.

Tumingin si mama sa akin at hinawakan ang aking kamay habang buhat niya sa kabila
niyang braso ang aking anak. 

"Pasok ka. I'll make you meals. Alam kong napagod kayo sa biyahe." 
This is not what I expected. 

Pinunasan ko muna ang mga luha sa aking mga mata bago ako sumunod sa kanya papasok
sa
mansiyon.

She immediately ordered the maids to make meals for us. Ide-decline ko na sana nang
umiling si mama. 

"How old are you, Jarren?" tanong ni mama at umupo sa isang single sofa, kandong si
Jarren.

"I'm six years old," my son politely replied.

I saw mama smiled and hugged my son again. "For almost seven years, tinatago mo
pala sa amin ang anak mo." 

Napaiwas ako ng tingin. "I'm sorry, ma." 

"It's okay." She kissed my son's cheeks and stare at his face. "He looks like your
brother." 

Bumalik ang kaba ko kanina. "P-po?" 

Umiling ito. "Kung naging babae lang siguro 'to, baka kamukha mo." She chuckled.

I bit my lower lip. Buti naman wala ng tinanong sa akin si mama. "Siguro po. M-
malakas lang siguro talaga ang dugo ng mga Martinez."

"Tama ka nga." She heaved a deep breath. 

Napatingin ako kay Jarren nang maglikot ito. "I need to pee."

Napatayo ako ngunit agad rin akong sinita ni mama. "Jean, kindly assist my grandson
to the bathroom." 

"Yes po, ma'am," magalang na sagot ng isang kasambahay at kinuha si Jarren kay
mama. 

"Nasaan ang ama niya?" she asked. 

Akala ko wala na. "H-hindi ko po kilala, ma." 

Nangunot ang noo nito. "Paanong hindi mo kilala? Lumaki ba ang apo ko na walang
ama?" 

My heart starts to ache. "Y-yes." Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. "P-pero it's
okay if hindi niyo tanggap ang anak ko. isang linggo lang—"

"Who told you that?" Tumayo ito at tumabi ng upo sa akin. She held my hand and
squeezed it gently. "I'm just disappointed, but I'm proud of you, Vielle."

"M-ma—"

"Daze!" Tumayo si Mama habang nakatingin sa likuran ko. 

Wala sa sarili akong napalingon at halos manlumo sa batang karga ni kuya Daze.
"Is this your son?" 

Fuck.

Senyorita Anji

Chapter 29
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Chapter 29

"Is this your son?"

Wala sa sarili akong napatayo habang nakatitig sa kanya habang karga ang anak ko.
"Daze..."

His cold eyes look at me, as if assessing my being and scanning me through. "May
anak ka."

Napakurap-kurap ako at dumapo ang paningin ko sa anak kong kalmado ang mukha.
Lumukob sa buong sistema ko ang kaba sa samo't-saring konklusiyong pumapasok sa
utak ko.

Did Jarren told him?

Did he knew he's our son?

"Yes, Daze."

It was my mother who replied. I motioned Jarren to come over and he obeyed.
Naglikot ito sa pagkakakarga ni Daze dahilan para ibaba siya nito sa lapag. The kid
immediately ran unto me and asked me to carry him.

"Bakit ka pa umuwi?" His cold voice like is piercing through my bones that I even
took a step back.

His intense cold blank eyes aren't showing any emotions.

"Daze!" sita ni mama. "Kakauwi pa lang ng kapatid mo, 'yan na kaagad ang pag-uugali
mo.
Change your behavoir because you're already getting married!"

Daze just scoffed and walked towards the mansion's main door. Lumabas ito na wala
man lang paalam kay mama. Maybe he felt irritation on seeing me.

"Vielle," tawag pansin sa'kin ni mama. "Pagpasensiyahan mo na ang kapatid mo, ha.
Alam mo naman na ganyan ang ugali niya."

Naramdaman ko ang paggalaw ni Jarren sa pagkakarga ko. "I want to rest, mommy."

Napatingin naman si mama sa anak ko at ngumiti bago muling bumaling sa'kin. "Let's
go upstairs?"

"Kaya ko na po, ma." I smiled at her.

Ngumiti naman siya pabalik kaya magpaalam na ako para umakyat. Binaba ko si Jarren
at humawak naman kaagad ang bata sa kamay ko. Inalalayan ko siyang maglakad paakyat
ng pangalawang palapag. His eyes were busy wandering all over the mansion full of
awe.

"This mansion is big," sambit niya nang makarating kami ng pangalawang palapag. "I
don't like it here."

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa narinig. Lumingon ako sa paligid bago siya masuyong
dinala sa magiging kwarto namin, my old room. Nang makapasok kami ay agad kong
sinarado ang pinto at giniya siya patungong sofa-bed. I kneeled on the floor to
level his height.

"A-anong sinabi mo?" I asked.

Umupo siya sa sofa-bed at blanko akong tinginan. Just like how his father looked at
me. "I don't like it here."

My brows arched in a questioning look. "Bakit?"

"He's my father, right?" His voice croaked. "B-but why does he don't like me? I
accidentally broked the vase on the kitchen and then he pulled me up harshly and
then asked me if—"

"Hush," I cut him and pulled him into a tight hug.

Humagugol ito sa balikat ko na siyang bumiyak sa puso ko. "He's so harsh, mommy,
and he's rude at you. He don't like us here. Let's just go home."

"Oh, God." Kumurap-kurap ako upang pigilan ang pagtulo ng luha sa mga mata ko at
hinalikan ang kanyang buhok. I held his shoulder and made him face me. "Baby, don't
think it that way."

"He don't like me," matigas nitong utas sa kabila ng luhang umaagos sa pisngi niya.
"I don't like him, too."

Ang kaninang nagbabadyang luha ko ay tuluyan nang nasihulog. I cupped his cheeks.
"Baby, daddy likes you. It's just that, he didn't knew you are his son."

"I don't care." Pinunasan nito ang luha sa kanyang mga mata. "Even if he didn't
knew I'm his son, he shouldn't act harshly towards me. You said I looked like him
when he was younger, he should've acknowledged that I am your son."

Ano pa bang laban ko sa anak kong magaling magrason? Ngayon ko lang napagtanto kung
gaano kalaking parte ni Jarren ang namana kay Daze. His analytical thinking came
from him. Kilala ko kung paano magtanim ng galit si Daze, kaya nasisiguro kong mas
malala magtanim ng galit ang anak ko. He's the product of me and Daze afterall.

"Baby..." I pointed his wrist watch. "It's your shower time." Pag-iiba ko ng
usapan.

Inirapan ako nito. "Can I ask you one thing, mom?"

"Hmm, what is it?" I asked in a hum while caressing his cheeks.

"Can we just stay on tita Sam's place? I hate staying here. I feel like they were
just forced to let us in because you are part of their family." Lumabi ito.

I felt my chest tightened. Ayokong makaramdam ang anak ko ang mga ganitong
pakiramdam. I don't want him to feel unwanted, but looks like the world's too cruel
to let my son experienced this kind of feelings at a very young age.
My son's smart. He's fast in comprehending things and such. Mabilis siyang
makiramdam sa mga nakapaligid sa kanya at papanindigan niya ang kung ano sa tingin
niya ay tama.

"Mom?" he called out, dragging me back from my reverie.

Napakurap-kurap ako at tinignan siya. I compose my smile and nod. "Whatever makes
you comfortable, baby."

Tumango na si Jarren at siya na mismo ang nag-aya sa'kin maligo. He kissed my

cheeks.

"Change of mind," he said ad smiled at me sheepishly the moment we're already at my

bath room's door. "I'll take a bath alone, mommy. I love you!"

Napaawang ang bibig ko nang nagmadali itong pumasok ng banyo at sinarado ang pinto,
and take note: he locked the door. Now, how am I suppose to enter when my smart ass
son locked the door?

Humakbang ako palapit ng pinto at kinalampag ang pinto. "Jarren, open the door!"

"No!" I heard him giggled. "I want to take a bath alone!"

Muli kong kinalampag ang pinto and this time, his laughter filled my ears. Hindi ko
maiwasang mapailing sa paiba-iba ng pag-uugali niya.

"Vielle, what happened?"

Napalingon ako sa nagsalita, and it was mother. Nakatayo ito malapit sa door frame
and nagtatakang nakatingin sa'kin.

I showed her my frustrated facial expression. "Ma, do you have any spare keys on my
bathroom?"

"Bakit?" Naglakad ito palapit ng direksiyon ko. "Anong nangyayari? Rinig na rinig
ko ang kalampag mo sa pinto mula doon sa baba."

"Jarren is inside and he even locked the door!"

"I'll take a bath alone, mom!" Jarren yelled from inside.

"Jarren!" Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at kakalampagin na sana ang pinto nang
marinig ko ang tawa ni mama.

"Just let him, Elle," sabat ni mama. "Ganyan din ang kuya mo noon. That's part of
growing up."

Napipilan ako sa sinabi niya. Kung ganoon, pati pag-uugali na meron si Daze ay
namana ng anak ko? Paano ako? Ako ang umire tapos sa kanya magmamana?

"Are you okay? You're spacing out." Mother touched my cheeks. "Wala ka namang
lagnat."

Pinilit ko ang sarili kong ngumiti at tumango. "Oo, ma. Ayos lang po ako."

Kahit sa loob-loob ko ay gulong-gulo na ako.

--
"Matulog ka na rin, it's past ten already." Papa kissed my cheeks before he went to
their room.

Kakatapos lang naming mag-usap. And of course, they asked me many-to-mention

questions about how's my life in New York with Ledwidge Family. Did they take good
care of me, if the father of my son is Art, and such.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. My son is already sleeping peacefully on my

room, habang ako ay hindi mapakali sa hindi ko malamang dahilan.

Napag-isipan kong lumabas magtungon sa pool area upang lumanghap ng hangin.

Naglakad ako patungong pool area at dire-diretsong naglakad patungong lunge nang
makapansin ako ng taong nakaupo sa isa sa mga upuan at tulalang nakatitig sa pool.

Ngumiwi ako at dahan-dahang umatras. Okay, maybe the rooftop would do. Nang
makatalikod ako dito at magsisimula na sanang humakbang nang magsalita ito.

“Sit...”

I halted on my spot and slowly lifted my head to look at him over my shoulders.
Halos mapugto ang hininga ko nang mapansin ko ang mga malalamig nitong titig. It's
as if he's assessing me through his piercing stares. 

Napalunok ako at tuluyan nang humarap sa kanya. Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga
at naglakad patungon direksiyon niya. Nang makaharap ko siya ay napansin ko ang mga
basiyo ng alak na nasa mesa. I lifted my gaze on his face making my heart beats
fast.

Darn, heart. You still beat for this man, don't you?

“What do you want?” mahina at malumanay kong tanong. Iniiisip ko na malaking

pagkakamali ang paglabas ko para lumanghap ng hangin.

His stares remained on me. “I told you to sit.”

Hindi ko maiwasang mapairap at bumuntong hininga. Umupo ako sa katapat niyang upuan
na tuwid ang likod. I’m in tense. Mas lalo lang akong hindi mapakali sa paraan ng
paninitig niya.

It took us a moment of silence before he broke it.

“Why did you came back?” he asked in a horse voice.

Nagbaba ako ng tingin sa mesa at kinagat ang ibabang labi ko. A part of me wants to
say that I'm actually back because I missed him and it's time to face the monsters
that are going to wreck my life. Ngunit may parte din sa'kin na gustong
magsinungaling. I want to use Sam's wedding to tell him and feed him some white
lies—

Napasinghap ako nang ilapag niya ang basong hawak niya kanina sa mesa sa pabaldang
paraan.

“Stop biting your lips and answer me, damn it!” he roared.

Humugot ako ng malalim bago sumagot. “I came here for Sam’s wedding. Aalis rin
naman kami bukas, ayaw ng anak ko dito.”

His frowned. “Why?”

I chuckled nonchalantly. “He don’t like it here. Someone just made him uncomfy on
staying here.”

He laughed humorlessly. “Why would I let him comfortable in my home? He is not my

son.”

“He is my son,” Mariing bigkas ko.

He look at me straightly in the eyes. “Who’s his father? Was it Art? Did you mean
those letters?”

Hindi ako sumagot. Nakatitig lang ako sa kanyang mapungay na mata at namumulang
pisngi.

“You are really just like others. I thought only boys would do the after the
pleasure, they would just replace the person.” He chuckled. “Pati din pala ikaw.”

“Kung pinaupo mo ako para insultuhin, aalis nalang ako at tatabihan ang anak ko,” I
replied in a monotone voice.

“That kid...” Tumingin ito sa kawalan. “Is he really not my son?”

Humalakhak ako upang itago ang kabang nararamdaman ko. “He’s not yours. What was
written in the letter was all true.”

Please, don’t read what’s written on my eyes...

His eyes settled on my neck where the cold metal is hanging. The necklace he gave
me.

“You still have it,” mahinang usal nito.

Pilit akong ngumiti. “I treasure every things I own.”

Even your semen, you dumb shit.

Silence once again enveloped us. No one dared to talk. We just stared into each
other as if the thoughts inside our head would always remain unspoken.

“K-kumusta ka na?” I asked, deciding upon breaking the silence. “I heard you’re
finally getting married.”

“Yeah.” Dumukwang ito at nagsalin ng alak sa baso.

“With who?” mahinang tanong ko.

He lifted his gaze on me and without breaking our eye contact, he drank his martini
bottoms up. “Nina Cruz.”

“The daughter of the senator.” I nodded my head. “Congratulations. I’m happy for
I turned the knob to open my son. “Jarren, are you going—”

Natigilan ako nang may biglang humila sa braso ko. Huli ko nang mapagtanto kung
sino ito nang manuot sa ilong ko ang amoy na nami-miss ko.

“Daze...” I whispered.

Diniin nito ang mukha sa’king leeg at mas hinigpitan pa ang yakap.
“Just let me...” he whispered. “Even just for tonight.”

Muli na namang tumulo ang luha ko sa huling katagang sinabi niya.

Even just for tonight...

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 30
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Chapter 30

Naalimputangan ako dahil sa halik na pumupupog sa mukha ko. Kinusot ko ang aking
mga mata at dinilat ito. Bumungad naman sa mukha ko si Jarren na nakangiti at may
bahid ng chocolate ang mukha.

Inabot ko ito at pinahiran ang kayang pisngi. "Where did you get this?"

"Good morning, mommy! Get up now!" Hinila ako nito pabangon. "Your breakfast is
ready!"

Bahagya akong natawa sa inaakto nito. "Where did you get the nutella smudge,
Jarren? Did you play with grandmommy?"

"Nope," he replied. "It was me and daddy."

"Granddaddy?" paglilinaw ko ngunit umiling muli ang bata.

"It was daddy Daze." Umupo ito sa kama at ngumiti. "He said sorry to me this
morning and asked if how will he make it up to me. I told him he'll make me
pancakes, but he don't know how."

The happiness lingering on his eyes gave me relief. I ruffled his hair and kissed
his forehead. "Susunod si mommy. Maliligo lang ako."

Tumango lang ito at nagmamadaling bumaba ng kama. Walang lingon na itong lumabas ng
silid at hindi pa nag-abalang isarado ang pinto na siyang ikinailing ko. Maybe the
conversation me and Daze last night made him say sorry for my son. Halata din naman
sa inaakto ni Jarren na masaya siya kaya hindi na ako nag-alala pa.

Tumingin ako sa bedside table upang tignan ang oras. It's still seven in the
morning and I still have agendas to do kaya bumangon na ako sa kama at kumuha ng
tuwalya sa cabinet ko. I went straight to the shower and took a quick bath.

Matapos ay nagsuot ako ng isang blue silk halter dress na hanggang kalatahi ng
aking hita ang haba. I also wore a skinny knot belt and an ankle strap two-inch
heels. I put on some light make up and sprayed my favorite lilac scented perfume. I
tied my hair into a clean ponytail before glancing at myself in the mirror.

I whistled as satisfaction filled me. Ngumiti ako sa aking sarili bago lumabas
kwarto dala ang isang channel sling bag na kulay blue at may lamang wallet,
lipstick, pressed powder, perfume and phone. I have some agendas to go, and that
would be at Sam’s house. We’ll go shopping today.

“You moved like a turtle, mom. Very slow,” nakasimangot na sambit ng anak ko nang
makababa ako ng hagdanan. “Where are you going?”
“Tita Sam’s place. You’ll come with me?” Napatitig ako sa itsura niya. “Bakit ang
dungis mo na?”

His white shirt is filled with chocolate and his cheeks are tainted with baking
powder I think. He smiled at me sheepishly. “Daddy’s— opps...”

Napatakip kaagad siya ng bibig nang padilatan ko ito. “Jarren.”

“Me and him tried and tried making pancakes, we failed though. That's why we just
cooked sinigang because he said that's your favorite,” he explained.

My heart thud fast. Naalala niya pa ‘yun? I immediately composed my smile. “Great.
You would like to come with mom? Or with grandmommy?”

“Hmm...” Pinasadahan ako nito ng tingin. “I’ll go with grandmom and dad today. You
go alone, turtle.”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa narinig. “Jarren—” Nagmamadali itong tumakbo papasok ng
dining area na ikinailing ko. “That kid.”

Nalagkad ako papasok ng dining area at nadatnan ko sila mama papa na nasa hapag na.
Daze is sitting across an empty chair, katabi niya si Jarren na ipinagtaka ko.

“Saan ang lakad mo, anak?” bungad na tanong ni papa.

I smiled and went to them. I kissed their cheeks before settling myself on the
empty seat. Kita ko naman ang pagsunod ng tingin ni Daze sa’kin na nangungunot ang
noo.

“I have an errand to run today, pa. Balak ko sanang isama si Jarren kaso ang sabi
niya sainyo siya sasama.” I smiled.

Papa nodded. “Mag-iingat ka sa lakad mo. Magpahatid ka nalang kay Daze.”

“No need,” maagap kong sagot at pilit na ngumiti. “I can drive now, pa. Just let me
borrow your car.”

“Sure.” Ngumiti din si papa.

“Awe...” Mother pinched Jarren’s cheeks lightly. “He looks like Daze.”

Nagkatinginan kami ng bata. His innocent eyes were eyeing me as if asking

permission to speak that I just answered by shaking my head slightly. Yumuko naman
ang bata.

“Jarren,” I called making him lift his eyes on me. “Sit beside me, baby.”

Umiling ito. “I want Da— tito Daze to feed me, mom.”

Nakagat ko ang aking labi at aangal pa sana nang sumingit si Daze.

“Sure, why not.” He smiled which made mama and papa slightly taken aback.

Kita kong nagkatinginan si papa at mama. Si mama na ang nagdasal bago kami kumain.
And just like what my son said, it was his father who feeds him. Hindi ko alam kung
paano napaamo ni Daze si Jarren kung kahapon parang galit na galit pa ito sa ama.
Was it the 'lukso ng dugo'? Mahirap lambingin si Jarren lalo na kapag nagtatampo.

“I’m very excited to see your child soon, Daze,” sambit ni mama na ikinasamid ko
habang kumakain.

Dinaluhan ko kaagad ang sarili ko ng tubig at tumikhim para wala silang mapansin. I
saw Daze lifted his gaze at me, as if he’s wondering what I was thinking. Sinagot
ko lang siya ng
ngiti bago nagsimulang kumain.

“Yeah, me too,” he replied.

“Bakit wala si Nina ngayon?” pang-uusisa ni mama.

“I told her that I’ll be busy for today.” He feeds my son. “Why?”

“Nothing. Ipakilala mo naman siya sa kapatid mo. They didn’t met last year.”
Ngumiti si mama.

Hindi na ako nag-abala pang magsalita. Jarren is also busy chewing his food while
being feed by his father.

“Dad— I mean... Tito.” Jarren glanced at me. “Can I come to your office?”

Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa hawak kong kubyertos. Sana hindi narinig ni Daze ang
pagtawag ni Jarren. Namamawis ang kamay ko sa isiping napansin niya ito.

“Sure, no prob.” He smiled and kissed Jarren’s hair. “And you can called me dad.
There’s nothing wrong with it.”

Tumingin sa’kin si Jarren at ganoon din si Daze. Hilaw akong ngumiti sa kanilang
dalawa at napilitang tumango. “Call him d-dad...”

“Yehey!” Jarren clapped his hands making my parents chuckle. “I’ll call you daddy
from now on.”

--

“Hindi ko na alam.” Pabalda kong binalik ang dress sa hanger at sinabit ito pabalik
sa lalagyan niya.

I heard Sam chuckled. “Just let your son be with them, Vielle.”

Hindi nalang ako sumagot at mas pinili nalang na irapan siya. We’re talking about
Jarren’s behaviour towards his father and my parents. Natatakot at nababahala ako
na baka sakaling biglang masabi ni Jarren ang tumgkol sa ama niya. He already
slipped his mouth this morning!

“Anyways...” Tumikhim si Sam para agawin ang atensiyon ko. “The wedding will be
held in Boracay.”

Natigilan ako. Boracay. Ironic. That’s the place where I lost it... my hymen. I
heaved a deep breath and nod. “That’s good to hear.”

“Yeah. Kaya mamayang gabi, aalis na tayo para makapagpractice ng march even just
for one day,” dugtong niya habang namimili ng damit.

Biglang umugong ang phone ko sa aking suot na sling bag. Agad ko namang kinalkal
ang loob ng bag at nang mahanap ko ang phone ay saka ko inangat ang tawag.

“Hello?”
“Hey, bitch. Are you in Philippines?”

Nangunot ang noo ko bago ko mapagtanto kung sino ang tumatawag. “Keith?”

“The one and only.” She chuckled on the other line. “Anyways, asan ka ngayon?”

Napatingin ako may Sam na busy pa rin sa pamimili ng damit. “I’m at a clothing
store in Rial Mall, why?”

“Alright, puntahan kita,” she said before turning off the call without further
words.

Humugot ulit ako ng malalim na hininga at hiningi si Alea sa pagkakakarga ni Sam.

The kid immediately wrapped her cute arms on my neck making me smile. Hinalikan ko
ang pisngi ng bata sa matunog na paraan.

“Who’s that?” she asked, not taking her eyes off the dresses.

“A college friend,” I replied while busy kissing her daughter’s cheeks. The child
would always giggle making me smile.

Patuloy pa rin sa pamimili si Sam habang ako ay inaaliw ang bata. Her son isn’t
around, nakiki-tag along daw sa papa niya doon sa Boracay para maghanda sa kasal
kaya si Alea lang ang kasama niya dito.

“Beach wedding?” I asked while swaying.

She nodded and smiled at me. “Wala akong maalalang nagsabi ako kay Kaius na
pangarap ko ang beach wedding. He just did found out. Ayaw niya ring sabihin kung
saan niya nalaman.”

Tumango ako at ngumiti.

“Ma-ba...” biglang sambit ng bata na ikinatigil ni Sam. “Mama...”

Sam look at us and her eyes dropped on her baby. Otomatiko niyang binitawan ang
hawak na dress para kay Alea at kinuha sa’kin ang bata.

“Baby, can you say ‘mama’ again?” she asked with a wide smile on her face.

Napangiti naman ako nang naglaro ang bata sa kanyang labi sa halip na ulitin ang
salitang binanggit niya kanina. Sam kissed her daughter making me feel envious.
Ganyan na ganyan ako kay Jarren dati nang maisambit niya ang pinakaunang salita
niya. But it’s not ‘mommy’. It’s ‘dad-wy’ making me wonder where did he heard those
words.

“Her first word?” I asked.

Nilingon ako ni Sam at tumango. “Yes.”

Ngumiti lang ako dito. Someone called my name from the crowd. Nilingon ko ito at
namataan ang naglalakad na Keith Gil patungong direksiyon ko. I smiled widely as I
accepted her tight embrace.

“Akala ko hindi ka na uuwi ng Pilipinas,” she said. Nauna rin siyang kumalas
sa’ming yakapan.

Tumawa ako dito. “Gago, hindi.”

“Ga...go...”

Sabay kaming napalingon ni Keith sa batang nagsalita. Pinandilatan ako ng mata ni

Sam na ikinatawa ko.

“Gago!” Alea happily cheered and she even clapped her very cute hands.

Kita ko kung paano nalukot ang mukha ni Sam habang pinapanood ang anak niyang
naglalaro ng laway sa bibig. I heard Kieth chuckled.

“Ang galing mo magturo ng first word, Vielle ah.” Humagikhik si Keith na ikinairap
ko.

“Nga pala, Sammy,” I said. “This is Kieth Gil, ang katawag ko kanina. Kieth, this
is Sam Imperial. Asawa niya ang may-ari ng mall.”

Tumango si Sam. “Stupid, magkakilala na kami ni Keith.”

Nangunot ang noo ko at magtatanong na sana kung paano sila nagkakilala nang muling
magsalita si Sam.

“She's the step-daughter of Lace. Magkaibigan si Lace at Kaius, pati na rin si Daze
kaya magkakilala kami ni Keith. Huwag ka na magtanong,” she added.

Keith chuckled and kissed Sam’s cheeks. “‘Yang bibig mo, Vielle, dahan-dahan. Gago
tuloy first word ni Alea.”

Sumimangot si Sam at ngumiti naman ako. “Let’s go to Luxury Restaurant? Gutom na

ako.”

“Wow, ha. May food court naman dito,” angal ni Keith at kinarga si Alea. “Ang arte
mo.”

Inirapan ko ito. “I want to eat italian food.”

“I thought you want to eat some italian, you know.” Kumindat si Sam.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin. “Ga—”

“Gago,” pagtutuloy ng bata na hawak ni Keith na ikinahalakhak ko.

“Manahimik ka na, Vielle,” nakasimangot na sambit ni Sam. “Tara na sa Luxury Resto.

Baka 'pag bumuka na naman bibig ni Vielle, ibang mura na naman sabihin.”

“Bakit ba mainit ang dugo mo kay Lace?” tanong ni Sam habang sumusubo ng pagkain

Keith shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“After all these years, galit ka pa rin sa kanya?” takang tanong ko. “May nagawa ba
siya sa’yong mali?”

Keith took a deep breath. “He keep manipulating my life. I choose and graduated in
tourism, but I end up being a business woman. You know how it sucks that much?
After I graduated my bachelor’s degree, he immediately trained me to run a company
and whoever dickheads try'na court me, he'll immediately shove them away. He's very
manipulative!”

“Di...” Bahagyang hinampas ni Alea ang kamay ni Sam na hawak ang kutsara. “Dick...”
“Fuck,” mahinang mura ni Sam na ikinahalakhak na'min ni Keith. “Now, I'm starting
to regret hanging out with you both while Alea is with me.”

“What’s wrong with dick?” natatawang sambit ni Keith at sumubo sa kanyang steak.

“You know what’s wrong with it, Kieth.” Sinamaan ni Sam ng tingin si Keith.

Tumawa si Keith ngunit naputol ang kaligayahan niya nang may magsalita sa likod
niya.

“Enjoying?”

Sabay kaming napalingon dito at agad kong nakilala ito. It was Lace Scott, Keith’s
step-father. Nakatayo ito at suot ang isang business suit.

“Lace,” pagbati ni Sam.

“Sam...” Lace bend to kiss Sam’s cheeks when Alea spoke.

“Dick.” Inabot ng bata ang pisngi ni Lace. “Dick.”

Kita ko kung paano natigilan ang binata nang marinig ang sinabi ng bata. He look at
Sam
questioningly. “What—”

“Ask your great step-daughter. She’s the one who taught my daughter such words,”
sansala ni Sam na ano pa mang katanungan ni Lace.

Nilingon ni Lace si Keith na may pagtatanong na kinindatan ng huli. Keith pursed

her lips and murmured.

“Dick...”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 31
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Chapter 31

Humikab ako habang papalabas ng kotse. Today is Sam's wedding day, the most awaited
day of her life. Nauna na kami ni Keith dito sa Montenegro Resorts para
makapaghanda na samantalang naiwan ang bride sa hotel na tinutuluyan niya.
According to her, their honeymoon would be in Maldives. Such a good place to spend
with your love ones.

"Look at these beautiful ladies," saad ng isang boses na ikinalingon namin ni

Keith. "I'm Isia Imperial, the mother of the groom."

I blinked and extended my hands. "I'm Vielle Martinez, Sam's friend."

"Kapatid mo ba si Daze Martinez?" she asked.

I bit my lip and nodded. "Opo."

She smiled. "You're beautiful."

Ngumiti rin ako dito. She let go of my hand and faced Keith. Misses Imperial is
wearing a peach colored dress and its length touches the ground. It was simple, yet
attractive.

Bumeso si Keith kay Misses Imperial. She tolds us to ready ourselves because the
bride is already on her way. Nagtungo kami sa dulo ng red carpet na nagsisilbing
aisle na lalakaran namin at ng bride.

"Keith, have you seen—" Natigilan ako nang dumapo ang paningin ko sa isang
napakapamilyar na pigura na kausap ni Daze at Lace. He's wearing a black tux paired
with a dark shiny shoes and a perfect cut hair. "Kiyo?"

"Ano?" I heard Keith asked. "Kilala mo si Kiyo Vazquez?"

Napalingon ako dito. "You knew him?"

"Of course!" She chuckled. "Kaibigan din siya ni Lace."

I nodded. Saktong inanunsiyo na nila na dumating na ang bride kaya kanya-kanya na

kaming pwesto. The wind blows some of my babyhairs and my gown. Bridesmaids's hair
are tied into bun with a flower crown. We're also wearing a peach colored tube
gown.

The rays of the setting sun makes the scene more captivating. Kahit sino ay
mabibighani sa taglay na kagandahan ng lugar. Sam is very lucky. Siguro kung
ikakasal man ako, gusto ko rin 'yung unique. Something extraordinary.

Everyone lined up. The visitors stood and the musicians played a melody for
wedding. Nagsimula na ang march. Tumabi sa amin ang magiging kapares namin sa
paglalakad patungo sa dulo ng aisle. Hindi na dapat ako magulat kung si Daze ang
tatabi sa'kin. But no, I was taken aback when he walked beside me and offered his
arm.

Ngumiwi ako at tinanggap ito. Bahagya niyang hinila padiin ang braso niya kaya
natangay ako. His very familliar scent filled my nose that I've been yearning to
smell for seven years. Nakaka-miss din pala. Ngunit ramdam ko na ang pagbabago. His
body became more toned right now. Mas tumangkad pa siya at mas naging mature ang
mukha niya.

"Quit staring," he said coldly.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin. "I-I was just wondering why I was your partner when it's
supposed to be your fiancée."

"She wasn't invited," he replied.

Hindi nalang ako sumagot. Bukas na bukas ay aalis na ako dito dahil nagpaiwan si
Jarren sa Maynila kasama sila mama at papa. Medyo nababahala din ako na baka
madulas na naman ang bibig ng batang 'yun. He'd been slipping his mouth lately.
Parang gusto ko nalang busalan.

When we reached the end of the aisle where Ice and the priest was waiting, I
immediately let go of his arms and we walked into opposite direction. Napahinga
naman ako ng maluwag. Palihim kong kinapa ang dibdib ko, I think I just lost my
breath.

"Hoy, ayos ka lang?" tanong ni Keith na hindi ko napansin nakasunod pala sa amin.

I just gave her a tight smile before heaving a deep breath. Tinuwid ko ang aking
likod at tumingin sa pwesto ng pinanggalingan namin. There I saw Sam wearing her
gown and was covered with belo. May hawak itong bulaklak na sa tingin ko ay kulay
lila at peach. The rays of the sun touches her face making her teary eye visible
even with her belo on.

She must be very happy.

Lahat naman talaga masaya kapag ikakasal. Hindi ko lang alam kung kailan ang akin.
I'm turning thirty this next two months, and still have no boyfriend! Malapit na
akong mawala sa kalendaryo.

My eyes darted on Daze who is now looking at me intently making me avert my gaze
into somewhere else. I pursed my lips and cleared my throat to hide my nervousness
under his gaze. Mas pinili ko nalang panoorin si Sam na naglalakad sa pulang carpet
at katabi nito ang kanyang ina.

"She's so beautiful," Keith murmured which I agreed.

I watch my friend walked down the aisle, wearing her smile while looking at her
soon-to-be-husband. Hindi ko maiwasang mapaluha. I'm happy for them both. And I'm
happy witnessing how they will pledge their love and vows to each other. How I wish
I could have one, too.

Nang makarating si Sam sa pwesto ni Ice, niyakap ng ina ni Sam si Ice. I just
watched them. Sa tingin ko nga ay hindi pa masyadong nagkakaayos ang ama ni Sam at
si Ice, marahil ay pinakasalan nito si Resha at sinaktan, emotionally though. I
don't think he's capable of hurting a woman physically.

"Kapag talaga ako ang ikakasal, ganito rin ang gusto ko," saad ni Keith na
ikinangiti ko. "Ikaw, Vielle?"

I shrugged. "I want something unique. Something that only few couples want to do."

Nangunot ang noo nito. "E, ano?"

Nginitian ko na lang ito at hindi na nagsalita pa. Nakatuon ang paningin ko sa

dalawang taong nakaharap sa pari at pawang nakangiti. The sun is almost gone that's
why they turned on the
lights decorated along side of the red carpet, including on the flowers and the
priest's table. Pati na rin sa square-like thing behind the priest's back.

"Do you both pledge to share your lives openly with one another, and to speak the
truth in love? Do you promise to honor and tenderly care for one another, cherish
and encourage each other, stand together, through sorrows and joys, hardships and
triumphs for all
the days of your lives?"

"We do," they replied in unision.

"Do you pledge to share your love and the joys of your marriage with all those
around you, so that they may learn from your love and be encouraged to grow in
their own lives?" asked again by the priest.

Kita ko ang pagsulyap ni Ice kay Sam bago sumagot. "We do."

Napangiti ako. Sana all.

I saw a kid holding a fluffy pillow with a ring placed above it. Maagap naman ang
maid of honor na tanggapin ang unan at nilapit sa pari. The priest spoke.

"May these rings be blessed as a symbol of your union. As often as

either of you look upon these rings, may you not only be reminded of this moment,
but also of the vows you have made and the strength of your commitment to each
other." He look at Ice. "Isaiah, please repeat after me..."

Ice faced Sam and held her hand. Ice eyed Sam with adoration ang love. The bride's
face can't be seen for her back is facing us.

"I, Isaiah Kaius, promise to love and support you, Alexis, and live each day with
kindness, understanding, truth, humor, and passion. With this
ring I thee wed." He placed the ring on her ring finger with a teary eye.

"Sam Alexis, please repeat after me..." said by the priest.

"I, Sam Alexis, promise to love and support you Kaius and live each day with
kindness, understanding, truth, humor, and passion. With this
ring I thee wed," pag-uulit ni Sam

Kinuha niya ang singsing sa unan at hinawakan ang kamay ni Ice. She inserted the
ring on his finger which made everyone clapped their hands.

Ngumiti ang pari. "Go now in peace and live in love, sharing the most precious
gifts you have— the gifts of your lives united. And may your days be long on this
earth. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Matapos ang kasalan, the bride and groom went to the wedding's reception. Siniko
naman ako ni Keith.

"Tara na," she said.

Umiling ako at napahawak sa'king ulo. "Hindi muna ako sasama. Medyo masama
pakiramdam ko."

Dahil sa sinabi ko, hinarap niya ako sa kanya at kinapa ang noo ko. "Ayos ka lang?"

I nodded. "Yeah, sort of. Kailangan ko lang magpahinga."

"Sige, ako na bahala magsabi kay Sam."

Tumango lang ako dito. Nagpaalam na ako na mauuna na. Siguro sa resort nalang ako
magpapalipas ng umaga. Hindi ko kabisado ang pasikot-sikot ng boracay kaya hindi ko
pa alam saan ang rest house ni Daze—

"I'm sorry! Are you okay?" tanong ng lalaking nakabanggaan ko.

Napahawak ako sa aking ulo at tumango. "Uhm, yeah."

"Wait..." He held my shoulders and lifted my chin without any warning. "Lilac?"

Nangunot ang noo ko. "K-Kiyo?"

"Ikaw nga!" He pulled me into a hug which made my mouth fell open due to my utter
shock. "Na-miss kita."

Wala sa sarili akong napakurap-kurap. I gulped. Sasagutin ko na sana ang yakap niya
nang may humigit sa braso ko at huli na nang ma-realized ko kung sino ito.

"Distansiya, Vasquez," mariin sambit ni Daze.

He possessively wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me more closer. "Daze..."
"Cut the crap, Martinez. She's my childhood bestfriend. What's wrong with hugging?"
Mapang-uyam na tanong ni Kiyo.

I heard Daze scoffed. "Fuck off."

I struggled from his hold. Nang makawala ako sa kanyang braso ay napahawak ako sa
aking ulo. Seriously, ito na ba ang sleep deprivation? Halos sa isang linggo, 22
hours lang ang naging tulog ko.

"Are you okay?" they both asked in unision.

Tumango lang ako. "I-I just need to sleep."

Napasinghap ako nang walang sere-seremonya akong pinangko ni Daze. My arms

immediately encircled on his nape, afraid to fall. Malalaki ang mga mata kong
tinignan siya. I caught him shot deadly glares to Kiyo's direction and starting to
walk away, carrying me with him.

"Daze, ibaba mo ako—"

"Shut up. You're pale. Just sleep."

--

Nagising ako dahil sa isang mabangong amoy ng sinigang. I immediately got up from
the bed and yawned. Luminga-linga ako sa paligid at napansin ang pamilyar na silid.
My room on his rest house.

Ngayon ko lang din napansing hindi pa rin ako nakapagbihis. Tumingin ako sa gilid
at namataan ang handbag na pinagsidlan ko ng susuotin ko para sa pagtulog at bukas
sa flight ko.

Speaking of flight, inabot ko ang purse sa nightstand at kinuha ang phone. I

unlocked it and several of messages are on my inbox. Hindi ko nalang ito pinansin
at dumiretso na online booking of flight. I requested the flight at six in the
morning, mabuti na lang at
na-approved agad kaya naman umalis na ako ng kama.

Yumuko ako para bitbitin ang hem ng gown. Dumiretso ako sa handbag at nagkuha ng
undergarments, satin pajama at isang sleeveless coordinates nito na satin din.
Tumayo na ako at nagtungo sa banyo. Kinapa ko ang light switch at ini-on ito.

I was slightly taken aback when I saw my favorite lilac scented shower gel,
shampoo, and conditioner. Ngumiwi ako at hinubad na ang gown, ngunit nahirapan ako
sa pag-abot ng zipper sa likod. Damn it, tube lang naman sana ‘to pero bakit ang
hirap tanggalin?!

I keep reaching for the zipper when a hand pushed my mine away at ito na mismo ang
naghila pababa ng zipper. I gasped. Nilingon ko ito at mas lalong napasinghap nang
malaman ko kung sino ito.

“D-Daze...”

“I was about call you for dinner, I guess you’ll take a bath first,” he said in a
very deep voice. Very deep that I almost shiver.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin dito. My heart pounded fast. “S-salamat. Susunod ako.”
Kahit kinakabahan, I managed to slightly pushed him and locked th bathroom’s door.
Napalingon ako sa salamin sa aking kanan at halos manlumo nang makita kung gaano ka
pula ang pisngi ko.

Wtf, Vielle? Kung makapag-blush ka akala mo highschool teenage student! Lihim kong
sinabunutan ang sarili ko bago hinubad ang gown. I also untied my hair and let it
fall on my shoulders, it was curly. Cute.

Nagmadali ako sa pagligo at bihis. Nagpahid ako ng lotion bago sumulyap sa orasan
ko. Mama texted me, saying Jarren is now asleep. Hindi na ako magtataka pa. My son
is used of me not around. Swerte na lang ako dahil kahit papano ay hindi nagtatampo
sa'kin ang bata.

“Senyorita Vielle?” Someone knocked on my door.

“Bababa na po.”

Minadali ko ang pag-blow dry ng buhok ko at agad na tinanggal ito sa saksakan.

Inayos ko muna ang mga gamit bago hinanap ng paningin ko ang pares ng tsinelas na
natagpuan ko sa
ilalim vanity dresser.

Nang maisuot ko ito ay agad akong lumabas ng kwarto. I ran downstairs dahil nag-
iingay na talaga ang sikmura ko. Saktong pagbaba ko ay siyang pagpasok ng isang
magandang dilag sa sala.

“Senyorita Vielle?” She eyed me like I’m a dead raised once again.

“Bina?” tanong ko dito. She’s wearing a nurse attire.

Nilapitan ako nito at nagulat ako nang dambahan ako nito ng yakap. “Senyorita!
Akala ko po hindi na kayo makakabalik dito.”

Napangiti naman ako at niyakap siya pabalik. “Yeah, me too.”

Kumalas ito sa yakap at pinakitaan ako ng malawak na ngiti. “Kumusta ka po,

senyorita?”

I smiled and was about to answer when a very introverted person disturbed our
conversation.

“The dinner is waiting,” masungit na sambit ni Daze na ikinairap ko.

Alright, gutom nga pala ako.

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 32
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Chapter 32

Maaga akong lumisan sa resthouse ni Daze para mahabol ko ang flight ko sa alas
sais. I need to go home. Ayokong mag-stay sa lugar na maraming alaala ang nakaukit.

"... we have just landed at—"

Hindi ko na pinakinggan pa ang cabin crew na nagsasalita. Isinukbit ko ang dala kog
bag sa aking balikat tumayo na para sa paglabas. Nagsitayuan din naman ang mga
kapwa ko pasahero.

Nang makababa ako ng eroplano ay hinugot ko ang aking cellphone sa bulsa at ini-
unlock ito habang naglalakad. I immediately dialed my mother's number and waited
for them to pick the phone up.

"Hello, Vielle?" si papa ang sumagot.

I took a deep breath and continue walking. "Hey, pa. Gising na po ba si Jarren?"

"Ah, tulog pa ang bata. Naglaro kami ng xbox kagabi kaya inabot kami ng alas dose."
I can sense father is grinning.

Napagkawala ako ng mahinang tawa, sakto namang nakalabas na ako ng paliparan kaya
agad akong tumawag ng taxi. "Sige, po. Pauwi na po ako, pa. Call you back later."

I heard him hummed on the other line before I turned off the call. Pumasok ako sa
taxi na tinawag ko. Binalik ko ang phone ako sa aking bag at sumandal sa aking
kinauupuan.

"Saan po tayo, ma'am?"

Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at ngumiti. "Martinez mansion po, manong."

"Sige po, ma'am."

I blew a loud breath and checked my phone again for messages for I have felt it
vibrated inside my bag. At tama nga ako, may mensahe akong natanggap mula sa isang
hindi rehistradong numero. Kunot ang noo kong binuksan ang mensahe at hindi na
nabigla nang mabasa ko ang mensahe.

Unknown numher:

Leaving without goodbye?

Hindi ko maiwasang bumuga ng hininga. Binalik ko ulit ang phone sa aking bag at mas
piniling panoorin nalang ang mga busy'ng mga tao na aming nalalagpasan. A normal
day for everyone.

Bigla ko tuloy na-miss ang New York. For seven years, I was used to drove my car to
Ledwidge's mansion, stopping by to buy my son a treat. Life was good, and now I'm
thinking of going back again. Mas magaan ang pakiramdam ko sa New York dahil bukod
sa suportado ako ng pamilya ni Art, mas kabisado ko ang bansang 'yun.

"Ma'am, andito na po tayo," anunsiyo ng driver.

Tumango ako dito at naghugot ng isang libo sa aking wallet at iniabot ito sa kanya.
I told him to keep the change before I stepped out of the car. Humikab pa ako bago
naglakad papasok ng gate. Malayo pa ang mansion dahil hindi pwedeng makapasok ang
hindi kilalang sasakyan sa loob. So I need to walk and it would probably took me
five minutes of walk.

Binilisan ko ang mga hakbang ko palapit ng mansion. Gusto ko munang ipagpatuloy ang
tulog ko kanina, ngunit kailangan ko munang ipagluto ng agahan ang anak ko.
Kailangan kong sulitin ang tatlong araw na natitira sa'king leave. I'm working for
Emirates airlines, which is quitely difficult dahil nasa New York ang branch namin
at nandito ako sa Pilipinas.
Nang makapasok ako ng ng mansion ay dire-diretso ang lakad ko paakyat ng second
floor, gusto ko munang silipin ang anak ko at halikan bago ako magluto. Isa pa,
naiinitan ako sa suot kong pantalon at denim jacket.

Napangiti ako nang makapasok ako ng kwarto. I saw my son sleeping peacefully, lips
slightly parted and his left foot fell on the side of the bed. Nilapitan ko ito at
inayos ang kanyang
pagkakahiga. I kissed his forehead and nose before I went towards my closet to
change my outfit.

Napili ko ang isang maroon na short, at isang black satin sando. Tinali ko rin ang
buhok ko para walang harang mamaya sa pagluluto ko. Matapos kong magbihis ay
lumabas na kaagad ako ng silid at bumaba sa unang palapag.

"Ang bilis mo yatang nakauwi?" tanong ni papa na kasalukuyang sumisimsim ng kape sa

kusina at nagbabasa ng diyaryo.

Ngumiti ako dito at lumapit para bumeso. "Actually, I was on my way here when I
called you. Tatlong araw nalang po kasi ang natitira kong araw at susulitin ko 'yun
kasama si Jarren."

"Tatlong araw?" He lowered his magazine to eye me. "Ibig bang sabihin niyan, aalis
ulit kayo pabalik ng new york?"

Ngumiti ako ng matamis dito bago tumango. "Yes, papa. Uuwi kami ulit sa New York."

I heard him took a deep breath. "Ngayon nagtatampo na talaga ako."

"Bakit?" I chuckled and opened the fridge beside me: looking for a good recipe to
cook for my son.

"Hindi ko na alam kung kami pa ba ang pamilya mo o sila na. Hindi pa naman kayo
kinakasal ni Arthemis, pero sa kanila ka na umuuwi. Nakakatampo na," he said.

Napangiti ako. Kumuha ako ng limang piraso ng itlog, walong hotdog, at bacon bago
ko sinarado ang fridge at hinarap si papa. "Come on, pa. Nandoon kasi ang trabaho
ko. Huwag ka na magtampo."

He rolled his eyes on me and continue reading his magazine. "Ewan ko sayo, Diana."

Natigilan ako. Nilingon ko si papa kung napansin niya ang reaksiyon ko at laking
pasalamat ko nang hindi man lang ito nag-angat ng tingin. Kumurap-kurap pa ako para
mabalik ako sa reyalidad.

Isang tao lang naman ang tumatawag sa'kin ni Diana. Hindi lang ako nasanay kay
papa. It's been too long since he last call me Diana. At 'yung mga panahong 'yun,
tinatawag niya lang ako kapag may kasalanan ako, o 'di kaya may nasabi akong mali.

"Are you gonna cook for his breakfast?" he asked.

Tumango ako at sinalang na ang frying pan sa stove. "Yes, pa. Minsan ko lang kasi
ito magawa kay Jarren."

"Kapag natapos na ang one week leave mo, iwanan mo na sa'min si Jarren para dito ka
na umuwi," he said, more like requesting. "We already enrolled Jarren in a private
school yesterday."

Nanlaki ang mga mata kong binalingan ito. "A-ano? Paano? Hindi niyo pa nakuha ang
credentials—"
"Oh, honey. We got our ways. We're not Martinez for nothing."

Just what the hell?!

--

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. Wala si Jarren sa mansiyon dahil sumama siya kay
papa papuntang opisina kasama si mama. It's obvious that they are enjoying my son's
company and they are entertained.

Napasimangot naman ako nang mapagtanto kong magmaula nang makauwi kami ng Pilipinas
ay minsan nalang dumikit si Jarren sa'kin.

"Ano ba dapat gawin ko?" mahinang bulong ko sa'king sarili.

Binagsak ko ang aking sarili sa kama at tumitig sa kisame. Wala akong maisip na
gawin at puntahan dahil sa Sam ay umalis na ng bansa kahapon para sa honeymoon nila
habang si Keith naman ay busy sa pag-aaral paano magpatakbo ng kanilang negosyo.

Habang nag-iisip saan ko igugugol ang oras ko, biglang sumagi sa isipan ko ang
nangyari kahapon. Ang pagkikita namin ni Kiyo. Hindi kami nagkausap ng matino
kahapon at hindi man lang ako nakahingi ng number niya. I missed him, but I miss
Daze more.

Okay? Where the hell was that coming from?

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. Ngunit natigilan ako nang maalala ko ang
nangyari pitong
taon na ang nakakalipas. Maybe it won't be bad to take a visit in that place,
right?

Bumangon ako sa kama at naghanap ng masusuot. Isang denim short at white t-shirt
printed with a stucked out tongue. I tucked-in my shirt and let my hair fell freely
on my back. Kinuha ko ang isang cute handbag at doon sinilid ang aking wallet at
cellphone.

I checked the time on my wrist watch and found out it was still three in the
afternoon. Dalawang oras ang biyahe patungo doon, siguradong alas-singko ang dating
ko. Sana lang wala siya du'n. Hindi pa naman siguro siya nakakauwi galing Boracay,
'di ba?

Lumabas na ako ng silid at nagmamadaling bumaba sa hagdanan. May mga kasambahay na

bumati sa'kin habang palabas ng mansiyon na hindi ko na lang pinapansin. Dumiretso
ako sa garahe at nadatnan doon ang sasakyan ni papa kaya 'yun na ang gagamitin ko.

"Aalis po kayo, ma'am?" tanong ng family driver na'min.

I smiled and nodded my head. "May pupuntahan lang po, manong. Nasaan po ang susi?"

"Ahh, ito po." Nagmamadali nitong inabot sa'kin ang susi ng sasakyan ni papa na
siyang ikinangiti ko ng malawak.

I raised the keys and mouthed 'thank you' before entering the car. Nilapag ko ang
handbag sa passenger's seat at pinaandar ang makina. I turned on the stereo and and
checked for the time first before I stepped on the accelerator. I maneuvered the
car out of the place. Otomatiko namang binuksan ng guard ang gate para palabasin
ako.
I adjusted my seat and backrest para hindi manakit ang likod ko habang nagda-drive.
I was also banging my head to the rhythm of the music while driving. Wala akong
makausap at boring ang mga tao kausap ngayon. That's why I decided to pay that
place a visit.

Weird, umalis ako ng Boracay dahil sa doon nagsimula ang kasalanan namin ni Daze,
and now I'm paying Batangas a visit where I ended everything and where Jarren was
created.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at hindi nalang pinansin ang sarili kong iniisip.
I just hummed the songs blasting on the stereo. Ngunit natigilan ako nang
rumihestro sa utak ko ang kanta.

'You know I want you,

It's not a secret I tried to hide.
I know you want me

So don't keep sayin' our hands are tied.'

Nanliit ang mga mata kong sinisipat nang tingin ang stereo na kasalukuyang
nagpapatugtog ng kantang kung tama ang pagkakaalala ko, ay ang kantang kinanta sa
akin ni Daze nang nasa condo kami.

'You claim it's not in the cards

And fate is pullin' you miles away
And out of reach from me
But you're here in my heart
So who can stop me if I decide
That you're my destiny?'

Napahawak ang kapit ko sa manibela ng sasakyan at diretso ang tingin sa kalsada. I

admit, I'm hurt. Mahal ko pa rin, e. Kahit sa pitong taon na lumipas, siya pa rin.
Kahit alam kong mali at makasalanan.

'What if we rewrite the stars?

Say you were made to be mine
Nothing could keep us apart
You'd be the one I was meant to find,
It's up to you, and it's up to me
No one can say what we get to be
So why don't we rewrite the stars?
Maybe the world could be ours
Tonight...'

Sinasabayan ko ang tono ng musika habang pinabaybay ang mahabang kalsada patungo sa
lugar na hindi ko alam kung may aabutan pa ako.

It took me more than two hours, longer than the estimated time I thought I'll
arrive at my destination. Mabigat ang traffic kaya natagalan pa bago ako nakalusot.

Nang makarating ako sa building na kinatitirikan ng nasabing condo ay agad kong

pinarke ang sasakyan sa parking lot. Kinuha ko ang handbag sa passenger's seat bago
lumabas ng sasakyan. I checked my phone first for any message, but there was none,
kaya muli ko itong sinilid sa handbag.

It's exactly six in the evening. Madilim na ang kalangitan, ngunit wala pang buwan
ang nakikita. Siguro kung may condo pa akong aabutan, dito ako magpapalipas ng
gabi.
Pumasok ako ng building at dire-diretso ang lakad ko patungong elevator. I pressed
the the up button and patiently waited for the door to open. Hindi rin naman inabot
ng ilang minuto bago bumukas ang pinto. Pumasok ako dito at pinindot ang palapag na
kinatitirikan ng condo.

Habang umaandar ang elevator, hindi ko alam kung ano ang dapat kong maramdaman. I
would probably lying if I say I'm not trembling. My hands are sweating cold as
hell.

Bumukas ang pinto ng elevator, senyales na nakarating na ako sa aking destinasyon.

Nanginginig ang mga tuhod kong hinakbang palabas ang paa ko sa elevator. Mabuti
nalang at naka-flat converse shoes ako, dahil paniguradong matatapilok ako sa
sobrang panginginig ng tuhod ko.

I slowly walked towards the very familiar door. Iniisip ko kung may aabutan pa ba
ako, kung pag-aari pa rin ba 'to ni Daze o binenta na niya.

Kahit nanlalamig ang kamay ko, hinanap ko ang keycard para makapasok sa loob ng
condo. I slowly swiped the card and my heart almost jumped out when the door
clicked. It still opened! Ibig sabihin, hindi niya pinalitan ang susi ng condo?

Dahan-dahan kong pinihit pabukas ang pinto. Rinig at ramdam ko ang malalakas na
kabog ng puso ko sa mga senaryong baka ay madatnan ko.

With all my strength and will, I entered the condo and closed the door behind me.
Bumungad sa akin ang madilim na paligid na kinakailangan ko pang kapahin ang switch
the gilid para buksan ang ilaw. Nang mabuksan ko ang ilaw ay bumungad sa akin ang
malinis na paligid na parang hindi man lang dinaanan ng ilang taon.

Maglalakad na sana ako patungo sa silid na inuukupa ko dati nang maranig ako ng
baritonong boses mula sa kusina. My hand trembled and my heart thumped so fast that
I can feel it about to burst.

"What are you doing here?"

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 33
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Chapter 33

"What are you doing here?"

Lumabas ito galing kusina bitbit ang isang bote ng alak at ang mapupungay nitong
mata ay nakatingin sa akin ng diretso at blako. Nangapa naman agad ako ng dapat
iresponde sa tanong niya.

My hand gripped the handle of my hand bag tightly as I answered, "I-I just came by.
If you want, aalis na ako."

Puhimit agad ako patikod sa kanya at humakbang patungong pinto. Nakaisang hakbang
pa ako nang magsalita siya, "Sit down and let's talk."

I feel like my heart almost stopped pumping. Wala sa sarili akong napabuntong-
hininga. Gusto ko rin naman siyang makausap. Magmula nang makauwi kami, hindi kami
masyadong nagkausap, ni wala nga kaming matinong usapan.
Muli akong humarap sa kanya at naglakad patungo sa pangdalawahang sofa habang siya
ay umupo sa pang-isahan. Binaba ko ang handbag sa center table bago umupo. I saw
him rested his back at the backrest of his couch while I'm busy wandering my eyes
around.

I can feel the awkwardness. It's suffocating. Parang hindi na ako makahinga. Ngunit
natigilan ako nang magsalita ito.

"Bakit ka pa bumalik?" he asked.

Para akong tinakasan ng sariling boses habang pinapanood siyang tumutunga ng alak
habang nakatitig sa kawalan. My heart ripped with his question. Alam ko namang
kasalanan ko kung bakit kami umalis, pero para din naman 'yun sa kapakanan naming
dalawa at ng anak namin.

"Daze..."

"Pitong taon." Tumunga ito sa hawak niyang alak. "Pitong taon akong naghihintay sa
lugar kung saan iniwan mo ako."

My eyes watered hearing those words coming from him, but my voice were out of reach
to even mutter a single word. Nakatitig lamang ako dito, sa namumula niyang mata na
animo'y pinipigilan ang sarili sa pag-iyak.

"I hate you so much, you know that?" he said. "You promised me. Nangako ka na hindi
mo ako iniwan. Nangako ka at saksi ang lugar na 'to sa pangakong binitawan mo,
Diana."

Napalunok ako at umiwas ng tingin. "No promises would stay forever."

"Kaya iniwan mo ako para sa ibang lalaki?" he asked and chuckled. "Mas magaling ba
siya sa'kin sa kama, Diana?"

Kunot-noo ko itong tinignan. "Anong pinagsasabi mo?!"

He chuckled again. "Did you even know how much insecurity fills me after reading
your letter? You even left the ring I gave you."

Hindi na ako nagsalita pa. Nakikinig lang ako sa kanya dahil tama nga naman, ako
ang umalis. Now, I have no rights to complain kahit nasasaktan na ako sa sinasabi
niya.

"I would always question my worth." Humugot ito ng malalim na hininga. "Did you
ever loved me? Did you even think of being with me in your future life? Am I not
enough to make you stay? Saang parte ako nagkulang para maiparamdam sa'yo na mahal
kita at para hindi ka na umalis?"

Umiwas ako ng tingin nang manubig ang mga mata ko. Tangina, Daze. Sobra-sobra ka
na. Pero kailangan kong lumisan.

"And you know what hunts me most?" Tinignan ako nito. "Is that you left me with
another man and you bear a child from him."

Nakagat ko ang aking sarili at tumayo. Hindi ko na kayang marinig pa ang mga
sasabihin niya. "Just be happy now, Daze. Dahil sa pag-alis ko ay nakilala mo ang
fiancée mo ngayon."

"How can I be happy in the arms I don't even like?" he muttered. "After all this
time, ikaw pa rin ang mahal ko. Kaya gusto kong isumbat sa'yo lahat ng pangakong
binitawan mo."

"Dahil hindi tayo pwede!" Tumayo ako at hindi ko na napigilan pa ang luha kong
mamalisbis sa'king pisngi. "Can't you see it? Magkapatid tayo! Flesh and blood—"

"I told you I have plans didn't I?!" balik sigaw nito at tumayo din. Nilapag niya
bote sa mesa at hinakbang ang aming distansiya. "Bakit hindi mo ako inantay?"

He was holding my shoulders which made me cry more. I missed his touch, and
probably, him. I missed him. So much.

"Sorry..." was I could say. Wala akong laban.

Napayuko ako at hinila niya naman ako para sa isang mahigpit na yakap. "Stop crying
when I'm mad. Nawawala ang galit ko."

The mixture of his minty breath and alcohol lingered on my nose. Mas lalo akong
naiyak at niyakap siya. I didn't bother to stop myself anymore. The longing was so
hard to stop.

"Shh, now. I'm sorry for what I've said," he said while tapping my back. "I'm happy
you came home."

Iyak ako nang iyak dahil sa mga salitang lumalabas sa bibig niya. How can he still
manage to accept me when I left him hanging in the air seven years ago?

He pulled away from our hug. Pinagdikit niya ang noo naming dalawa at hinalikan ang
tungki ng ilong ko. "I've been waiting for seven years. And I don't want to waste
this chance.

"I promised to myself that the moment you'll step back here on the place where you
ended everything, I will never let you go," he whispered.

Napapikit ko nang siniil niya ako ng magaan at nanunukso niyang halik. I can't step
back, nor push him. His arms are holding me still. "S-si Jarren."

"I can sustain him," he said. "Kaya ko kayong buhayin dalawa, Diana. Just please
come back to me. We'll start again. You, me, and Jarren."

Nakatitig lamang ako dito at hindi ko na namalayang ako na pala mismo ang nagdikit
ng labi naming dalawa. He lifted my legs and straddled it on his waist. He held my
buttcheeks to support my weight as we continue kissing.

I can taste the liqour from his tongue. My arms encircled around his nape and my
righg hand gripped his hair, pulling him more closer to our kiss. Wala na sa tamang
wisyo ang utak ko. All I wanted to think is our lips touching with each other like
a thirsty humans finally tasting water for the first time.

He bit, suck, and lick my lower lips. He even sucked my tongue which made me wet.
Napapasinghap ako sa tuwing tinatampal niya ang pang-upo ko.

Moments later, I can feel the softness of the mattress pressed on my back. Daze is
towering above me, settling between my parted legs and busy kissing me.

"I miss your lips," he murmured.

"Hmm..."

The moment his lips left my lips and it traced down my neck, sucking and biting it
like how he did it to my lips moan escape from my lips. Hindi ko na napigilan pa
ang sarili kong magpakawala ng ungol nang lumapat ang palad niya sa dibdib ko. He
palmed my breast making me moan.

"God," he breathed. "I miss your moans."

Nahigit ko ang aking hininga nang alisin niya sa pakaka-tuck in ang t-shirt ko at
hinila ang laylayan nito paangat. Wala sa sarili ko siyang tinulungang hubarin ang
suot kong damit. My creamy colored bra came into the view. His lips touched the
valley of my breast and suck a skin.

"I miss my babies," he murmured.

"B-babies?" takang tanong ko.

I saw him smile and his hand massaged my breast. "I meant, this."

Hindi na ito nag-aksaya pa ng oras. He pulled down my bra and my breast spilled
from its cup. Napasinghap ako sa lamig ng aircon na tumama sa dibdib ko. He leaned
to kiss my lips and it immediately dropped on my breast. He inserted my nipple into
his sinful mouth and his tongue played with it making me moan involuntarily.

"Daze... ohhh..."

Naglikot ang kamay nito. His hands roamed all over my body until it stops between
my parted legs. Kahit suot ko pa ang denim short ko, ramdam ko ang init ng kanyang
kamay sa pagkababae ko. His hands move slowly, caressing my clothed pússy like how
he did to my breast a moment ago.

Wala sa huwisyo kong pinagparte lalo ang aking binti. Salit-salitan ang pagdila at
kagat niya sa magkabilang dibdib ko. Nang magsawa at bumaba ang halik niya sa'king
tiyan patungong pusod. His adventurous tongue suddenly played my belly button
making my body tingled in pure pleasure.

Napahawak ako sa bedsheets at patuloy na humahalinghing. Damn, he's good. His hand
keep caressing my clothed mound, fueling the desire and lust I'm feeling at the
very moment.

"Daze..." I keep chanting his name.

I felt him unbuttoning my fly. I lifted my hips to help him remove my shorts. Nang
matagumpay niyang tanggalin ang short ko ay agad niyang dumapa sa kama. His
breathing fanned my very very pússy. I heard him sniff and chuckled.

"I love the smell of you," he said. "Would you let me lick you?"

Namula ako sa sinabi niya at nag-iwas ng tingin. Tinakpan ko ang mukha ko sabay
tango. I heard him chuckled and his breathing fanned my mound. Natanggal ko rin
agad ang nakatabon kong kamay sa'king mukha nang bigla niyang dilaan ang pagkababae
ko kahit may suot pa akong panty.

"Damn, I'm craving."

He parted my legs wider. Tinukod ko ang aking siko para matignan siya. He's holding
the each side leg opening part of my panty, colliding it together: trapping my cl-t
in between. My lips formed and 'o' when he suddenly licked it while rubbing the
fabric on my mound.

"You like that?" he murmured, enough for me to hear him.

"Yes," I breathlessly replied.

He just showed me his triumph smile and licked me again. Nawalan ng lakas ang braso
ko at
bumagsak ang katawan ko sa kama. My body bend backwards and my hand reached for his
hair, pulling him more towards my very wet and soaking pússy.

"Lick me more... ohhh..."

Ramdam ko ang walang habas niyang pagpunit ng telang tumatabon sa pagkababae ko.
The coldness of the aircon that touches my mound suddenly dissappeared when his
mouth conquered it. Licking and sucking my clit like a hungry cave man.

"Daze! Oh, God... Lick me..."

I would always whimper whenever he suck my cl-t. My hips start accepting the
movements of his tongue. Paminsan-minsan ay tinutudyo niya ang pagkababae ko gamit
ang dili niya na nagpapasiglab ng pagnanasang nararamdaman ko.

“Fuck, ayan na...”

Bumilis ang galaw ng dila nito. He
reached for my breast and squeezed
ng daliri niya ang ut-ng ko habang
in pleasure as I felt the tingling
up.
keep biting and sucking my clit, his hands
it like a fucking stress balls. Pinagpalalaruan
patuloy na dinidilaan ako. My body almost shiver
sensation on my tummy and it's starting to build

“I-I'm coming...” I moaned.

Napahigpit ang kapit ko sa kanyang buhok nang maramdaman kong parang sasabog na
ako. My hips were moving so desperately, aiming to explode any moment by now.

“Fuck, Daze!” tili ko nang bigla nalang pumutok ang namumuong sensasyon sa'kin
puson.

I can feel hot liquid spurting out from my womanhood and I can't stop it. I
shamelessly squirt on his face and I can hear his chuckle which adds to my
embarrassment. Tinakpan ko ang aking mukha nang magsalita siya.

“So you squirt now?” he asked in a gentle voice.

Hindi ako sumagot, bagkus ay pinagdikit ko ang aking binti dahil sa sobrang
kahihiyan. Ngunit nagulat ako nang pinaghiwalay niyang muli ang aking binti at
umupo sa mismong gitna ng nakaparte kong hita.

He removed my hands that was covering my face and his lips welcomed me, capturing
it and suck my lower lip. “Did you missed me?”

Maluha-luha akong tumango. There's no point of denying anymore. I really missed

him. A lot. “So much.”

Ngumiti ito at muling sinilyuhan ang labi ko. He then pulled himself away and took
off his shirt, throwing it on the floor and dragging my hands to touch his stomach.
Namumula naman akong nag-iwas ng tingin. Ngayon ko lang napagtantong mas naging
hulmado ang katawan nito, dala na rin siguro sa paglipas ng panahon.

“Can you feel it?” He guided my hand until it drops on his bulge. “Did you miss
this?”
Napaiwas ako ng tingin ngunit ang kamay ko ay hinimas ito. I heard him chuckled.
Binitawan niya ang kamay ko at nakarinig ako ng pagbukas ng zipper. Napatingin ako
sa kanyan nang walang sere-seremonya niyang nilabas ang kanyang alaga na animo'y
galit at handa ng magparusa.

He separated my legs. He shamelessly spit on my mound and rubbed my clit using his
fingers which made me moan. “Are you ready?”

Hindi pa ako nakasagot nang biglaan niyang pinasok ang kanyang sandata sa
pagkababae ko na halos ikasigaw ko sa kirot at hapdi. Damn, pitong taon na ang
nakakaraan nang huli kong nagawa ito.

“I love you,” he suddenly blurted and began moving inside me.

Napahawak naman ako sa braso niyang nakatukod sa'king magkabilang gilid habang
patuloy na umuulos. Nagbaba ako ng tingin sa pag-aari naming nagsasalpukan na mas
lalong nagpainit sa nararamdaman ko.

“Daze... ohh... fuck me more,” parang hibang kong ungol.

“Shit, Diana...” he groaned.

I parted my legs wider and accepted his every thrust. He inserted his thumb on my
mouth which I immediately suck.

“D-daze... m-malapit na ako...” I said as I feel the sensation on my tummy again.

“Don't come yet,” his voice hoarsed.

Fuck, how?!

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 34
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275
35
Chapter 34

Nagising ako dahil sa pagtunog ng alarm clock. Pikit-mata ko itong kinapa sa

nightstand at ini-off. I covered my mouth to yawn and slowly opened my eyes. I
blinked several times to adjust from the brightness of the surroundings. Ramdam ko
rin ang mabigat na bagay na nakapatong sa tiyan ko.

The moment I opened my eyes and my vision cleared, I spotted someone's arms wrapped
around my waist. Ngayon ko lang din na napansin na hindi pala unan ang inuunan ko
kundi ang braso ni Daze. Nakatanday ang binti nito sa hita ko dahilan para hindi
ako makagalaw.

I lifted my hands and slightly tapped his cheeks. "Daze..."

He groaned and tightened his hug on me. "What?"

"It's already six. May trabaho ka pa sa opisina. I still need to go home," I

replied.

He groaned once again before he slowly opened his eyes. His eyes landed on me and a
genuine smile formed on his lips. "You're here," he murmured.
"Of course I'm here." Napapantastikuhan ko itong tinignan.

He chuckled and pulled me more closer. "I thought it was a dream."

I rolled my eyes on him. "My core is still painful, so yeah it was just a dream."

He buried his face at the hallow of my neck and whispered, "I missed you."

My heart melted. Kahit akong saway ko sa'king sarili, hindi ko na maisupil ang
ngiti sa labi ko. I can't help to bit my lip to rein the happiness I'm feeling at
the moment. Tinulak ko ang mukha nito palayo at sinamaan siya ng tingin.

"I need to get my ass up. My son's waiting." Inalis ko ang pagkakatanday ng kanyang
binti sa'king hita at inalis ang braso niyang nakapulupot sa bewang ko.

Bumangon ako at bumaba sa kama. Nilingon ko siya at sinamaan ng tingin. Hindi na

ako nag-abala pang takpan ang hubad kong katawan.

"Get your ass up now. I'm not in the mood the drive," I said.

Nagulat ako nang inalis niya ang kumot na nakatakip sa hubad niyang katawan. His
shaft came into the view, hard and veiny. Mas lalong sumama ang paningin ko sa
kanya.

He smirked. "If you're tired, I can drive you."

Frustrated kong pinulot ang isang unan at binato sa kanya na agad niya rin namang
sinalag gamit ang kanyang braso. He laughed with my reaction that heated my cheeks.
Tumalikod na ako dito at nagtungo sa banyo sa kabila ng sakit ng gitna ko.

I double locked the door to make sure he won't be able to come inside. Naglibot ako
ng paningin sa buong banyo at napansing wala itong pinagbago. The shower area's
sliding door was open and the sink are full of men's stuff.

Natigilan ako nang makaamoy ako ng lilac. I wandered my eyes around and walked
towards the shower area. Mas lalo akong natigilan nang mapansin ko ang isang basiyo
ng shampoo, shower gel, at conditioner sa gilid ng shower area, nakatuntong sa
lagayan ng iba pang sabon.

Bakit may lilac shampoo dito? Don't tell me— Pinilig ko ako ng aking ulo para
ihinto ang ano mang iniisip ko. Ngunit hindi ko talaga mapigilan. I stared at the
shampoo and asked to myself.

Does his fiancée loves lilac scent, too?

--

"Aren't you gonna thank me for taking you home?" he asked making my halt on my
spot.

Napairap ako sa hangin at nilingon siya. The wind is blowing some strands of my
hair. "Mabigat ba sa loob mong ihatid ako?"

He chuckled. "Kapag sinabi kong oo, anong gagawin mo?"

"Then that's not my problem." Inirapan ko ito at naglakad na patungong main door ng
mansion.
"Damn woman," I heard him cursed. Rinig ko ang yapak nito at nang nasa hamba na ako
ng pinto, hinigit niya ang braso ko. "Mahirap bang sabihin ang thank you?"

Nilingon ko ito at sinamaan ng tingin. "Hindi," I answered and tried to pull my

arms from his grip.

"Then why can't you say it?" Nilapit nito kanyang mukha na ikinaatras ko.
Nakakaduling. "Or should I just kiss you?"

I look at him in disbelief. "Are you even serious?"

Ngumisi ito at mas lalong yumukod. Natigilan kami pareho nang may magsalita sa
gilid namin, "Vielle, Daze, glad you finally came home."

Piniksi ko ang hawak ni Daze sa braso ko na agad niya din namang binitiwan.
Humakbang ako paatras at naglakad palapit kay mama. I kissed her cheeks and she
also did the same. Dumistansiya ako dahil bumeso din si Daze kay mama.

"Where's Jarren?" I asked her.

Nilingon ako nito at nginitian. "Maaga silang umalis ng papa mo. Your father went
to gym, uuwi na rin 'yun ngayon."

Tumango ako at sumilip sa'king pambisig na relo. It's already nine in the morning.
Natagalan kami dahil sa traffic at distansiya ng Batangas sa Maynila.

I cleared my throat. "Anyways, aalis po ako ngayon."

"Bakit? Saan ka papunta?" takang tanong ni mama.

I forced a smile. "I'll be booking my ticket. My vacay is almost over kaya

kailangan ko na
bumalik."

Sadness lingered at the corners of my mother's eyes. "That fast? Tapos ilang taon
ka na naman makakauwi."

Mother's sentence left me unspoken. Hindi ako makasagot. Gusto ko sanang sabihin na
matatagal pa ulit bago ako makabalik dito, ngunit natatakot ako. I was about to
utter something when she talked first.

"Anyways, saan ba kayong dalawa galing? Kumain na ba kayo?" tanong ni mama para
maiba ang usapan.

Pilit akong ngumiti dito at umiling. "Hindi pa po, e."

She smiled. "Halina kayo. Kumain ka muna bago ka umalis. Ikaw din, Daze. Kumain ka
muna bago ka pumunta sa opisina."

Nauna si mama na pumasok sa loob ng dining area kaya wala akong nagawa kundi ang
sumunod. Ramdam ko naman ang pagsunod ni Daze sa likod ko kaya conscious ako
sa'king paglalakad. My core still hurts like hell. Halos mag-uumaga na rin kami
bago natapos, kaninong ari ang hindi sasakit niyan.

"What's with the face, Vielle? Did something happened?" puna ni mama nang mapansin
niyang nakasimangot ako.

I forced a smile and shook my head. "Nothing, ma," sagot ko at dumiretso sa isang
upuan.
Umupo naman si Daze sa kaharap kong upuan kaya mas lalong sumama ang timpla ng
mukha ko. Ang hilig niya yatang mangbuska ngayon.

"Daze," mother called him. "Tumawag si Nina dito kanina. She asked where are you.
Akala ko ba sa kanila ka nagpalipas ng gabi?"

Halos pigilan ko na ang hininga ko sa naging tanong ni mama. Daze look at me with a
grin plastered on his irritating face. Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin.

"I was out with my friends. Hindi ko na siya nasabihan kagabi. My phone's dead," he
lied flawlessly.

Tinignan ko si mama nang ilapag nito ang mga pagkain sa mesa. She was nodding her
making me
feel relieved. Nagsimula na rin akong kumain at ganon din si Daze.

Tinapos kaagad namin ang pagkain. Saktong pumasok si Jarren sa kusina kasunod si
papa. Pawang pawis at sa tingin ko'y nakisawsaw din si Jarren sa gym.

Dumiretso si papa kay mama at hinalikan ang pisngi nito. Mother pushed him slightly
as if father has a germs on his body. Natawa ako dito. Binalingan ko si Jarren na
lumapit sa'kin at hinalikan ang pisngi ko.

"Bakit pawis ka?" tanong ko sa bata habang tinutulungan siyang hubarin ang kanyang
damit na puno ng pawis.

"Ang lakas pala ng apo ko," may pagmamalaking saad ni papa. "He did fifty push ups.
Nakaka-proud."

Nanlaki ang mga mata kong tinignan siya. "Is that true?"

Jarren nodded. "Papa Art always go to gym. We challenge each other like push ups,
set ups, and others," he explained.

Napanganga ako sa sinabi nito. He turned around for me to wipe his back. Ngayon ko
lang din na-realize na marami pa akong hindi alam tungkol sa anak ko.

"Mommy, I need to take a bath," Jarren murmured.

"No." Umiling ako. "You need to take a rest first. Pawis na pawis ka. Kumain ka na
ba?"

Umiling ito kaya napabuntong hininga ako. Nakipag-fist bomb siya kay Daze at
ngumiti ang bata. Binilin ko muna siya sa kusina para magkuha ng damit na susuotin
niya. Ayokong kabagin ang anak ko.

Dumiretso sa silid naming dalawa ng anak ko at naghalungkat ng kanyang damit.

Kumuha din ako ng pulbo para tumigil na ang pamamawis ng likod niya. Bumalik agad
ako ng kusina at nadatnan si Jarren na nasa kandungan ni Daze. Sinusubuan ni Daze
ang bata habang aliw na aliw naman si Jarren.

My heard ached. Noon pa man, alam kong matagal nang pinapangarap ni Jarren ang
makapiling ang ama. My son's mature enough to understand everything. But watching
them right now, it was as if they never got separated from each other.

"Isasama mo ba si Jarren sa airport?" tanong ni mama.

Tumango ako. "Aalis kayo ni papa, 'di ba?"

She also nodded and smiled. "Anyways. Mauuna na ako. Susunod lang siguro ang papa
mo at si Daze."

Bumeso kami ni mama sa isa't-isa bago siya nagmamadaling lumabas ng mansion.

Nagtungo naman ako sa pwesto ng mag-ama at agad naman akong napansin ni Jarren.
Bumaba siya sa kandungan ni Daze at lumapit sa'kin para magpabihis.

Pinulbohan ko ang likod nito, dibdib, leeg at batok bago ko sinuotan ng damit. He
kissed my cheeks at muling bumalik sa kandungan ng ama niya. Sinubuan siya muli ni
Daze na ikinangiti ko. Ngunit ang ngiti ay nauwi sa ngiwi nang maramdaman kong
nanghahapdi pa rin bulaklak ko.

"Mom, are you okay?" puna ni Jarren nang mapansin nakangiwi ako.

Pilit akong tumango dito at ngumiti. "Yes, baby. Ayos lang si mama."

Tumango naman ito at ngumuya. "Naubusan ako ng plane toys, mommy. Can you buy me
again?"

Napanguso ako at tumango. "Later."

"I want it now," ungot niya at sumimangot.

"Jarren, we're heading to the airport to personally book our ticket. Doon na tayo
bumili." Pinanlakihan ko ito ng mata.

Nalukot ang mukha nito. Akmang magsasalita na sana ako nang sumingit si Daze sa
usapan, "Do you really want your toy right now?"

Nakangusong tumango ang bata. "I love playing with planes, dad. Especially when I
am the one to assemble it."

I took a deep breath. "Jarren—"

"Okay, daddy will buy you disassembled plane toy. Just wait here, okay?" Daze cut
me and kissed Jarren's forehead.

Tumayo si Daze at pinaupo si Jarren sa inuupuan niya. He ruffled my son's hair

before he walked toward my direction. Agad naman akong humarang.

"You don't have to," I said.

Ngumiti lang ito at hinalikan ang noo ko. "I'll be quick. Wala akong mautusan dahil
busy lahat."

"Dala ni mama ang sasakyan," muling bigkas ko.

"I have my motorbike." He leaned in and kissed my forehead again without any
warning.

Napakurap-kurap ako. "M-marunong ka?"

He chuckled and pinched my noses before he passed by me. Sinundan ko naman ito ng
tingin hanggang sa makaalis siya at mawala ng tuluyan sa paningin ko. Napabaling
naman ako kay Jarren at bumuntong hininga.

Nilapitan ko ito at ako ang nagpatuloy sa pagsubo sa bata. He eyeing me like he has
something to say.
"What is it?" I asked him.

Nag-iwas ito ng tingin. "Are we really gonna leave dad?"

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. Hinawakan ko ang kanyang pisngi para iharap siya
sa'kin. "Mommy has work, baby."

"Why don't you stop working?" He looked at me. "Daddy said we can survive with his
wealth."

Nanlalaki ang mga mata ko itong tinignan. "D-did you told him the truth?"

"No, I didn't," he replied. "I told you I won't spit the truth not unt you say so."

Nakahinga naman ako ng maluwang sa sinabi nito. Hindi na ako nagsalita at agad na
tinapos ang pagpapakain sa kanya. I handed him a glass of water before standing to
place the plate on
the sink.

Nabulabog kami dahil sa pagkabasag ng baso. Agad kong nilingon si Jarren at

napasinghap na ang baso niya pala ang nahulog. Nilapitan ko ito at sinuri ang
kanyang kamay baka may kung anong sugat. I thanked God there's none.

"Bakit hindi ka nag-iingat?" mahinang tanong ko.

Ngumuso ang bata. "I didn't mean it."

Napahugot ako ng malalim na hininga at inutusan siyang sa sala muna. He said he'll
go to bath kaya nilisan ko muna ang mga nagkalat na baso. Dumating naman si Jean,
ang kasambahay dito at tinulungan rin ako.

Nang mag-ring ang phone ko, pansamantala kong binitawan ang pamunas at sinagot ang
tawag.

"Hello?"

"Is this Ms. Diana Martinez?"

Nangunot ang noo ko. "Yes?"

"It's about Mr. Daze..."

Natutop ko ang aking bibig nang bigkasin niya ang mga salitang hindi kaaya-aya
sa'king pandinig. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I sobbed.

"Daze..."

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 35
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Chapter 35

“Vielle, magdahan-dahan ka!” rinig kong sigaw ni papa.

Patuloy lang ako sa paglalakad papasok ng ospital. Dumiretso ako sa front desk at
nagtanong kung nasaan ang emergency room. Nang ituro ng nurse ay agad akong tumakbo
sa direksiyon nito.

Balak ko pa sanang itulak papasok ang pinto nang pigilan ako ng isang lalaking
nars.

“Any patient inside, ma'am?” tanong nito.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin. “Daze Martinez is inside, right?”

Tumango siya. Akmang magsasalita pa ako nang may humawak sa braso ko at nilayo ako
sa nars. Nilingon ko dito at nakita si papa ito na humahangos. Hindi na siya
nakasunod pa kay mama sa opisina dahil agad ko siyang kinuyog dahil natataranta na
ako. I even left my son on my parent's maid to rush here in the hospital.

“Vielle, kumalma ka,” father said.

Umiling ako at binalingan siya. “What if something bad happens to him, dad?”

Tinapik ni papa ang balikat ko at pinaupo sa waiting area dito sa labas ng

emergency room. He ruffled my hair and smile at me to ease my nervousness.

“Don't worry. Nasa loob na siya ng ER. He is a Martinez. Doctors will prioritize
him,” pampaglubag-loob nitong ani.

bike ang tumama sa katawan niya,” he explained.

Nanlamig ang buo kong katawan sa narinig. “H-hindi naman po siya mamamatay, 'd-di
ba?”

Humugot siya muli ng malalim na hininga. “Actually, he will kung wala kayong
mahahanap na blood donor. Dalawang bag ang kailangan namin at isang bag na lang ng
O negative ang meron kami.”

“I donate,” agad na saad ko. “M-magkapatid naman kami.”

He nodded. Sakto namang dumating si papa kaya pinaliwanag ng doktor sa kanya ang
nangyari kay Daze. He tried to volunteer but he has high blood pressure kaya hindi
pumayag ang doktor.

We entered the emergency room and he pointed the bed next to Daze to start his
testing. He wants to make sure that the donor's blood is safe.

Humiga ako sa kama at pinagpahinga aking sarili. I took a deep breath to calm
myself and closed my eyes as the doctor carefully inserted the injection on my
vein. Kinagat ko ang ibabang labi ko para hindi dumaing.

Matapos ay pinunasan niya ng cotton ang tinamnan niya ng injection. Dinilat ko ang
mga mata ko at muling kinagat ang aking labi. Ramdam ko ang pagkangalay ng kanang
braso, marahil ay dito niya ako kinuhanan ng dugo.

Napalingon ako sa katabi kong kama. Daze is sleeping peacefully with oxygen on his
mouth. May isang bag ng dugo ang meron sa gilid niya at dumadaloy ito patungo sa IV
Fluid na nakaturok sa kanang kamay niya. Nanikip agad ang dibdib ko sa'king
nakikita. Sana ligtas siya.

Pinilit ko ang sarili kong bumangon at kinapa ang phone ko. I dialed the mansion's
telephone and it was Jane who answered the call.

“Hello?” asked from the other line.

“Jane, it's me Vielle.” I took a deep breath. “Ikaw muna ang bahala sa anak ko
diyan. Uuwi rin ako mamaya.”

“Sige po, ma’am Vielle.”

I hummed and turned off the call. Muli akong bumaling sa lalaking natutulog sa
katabi kong kama. May pasa ito sa pisngi at puno ng galos ang braso nito.
Natatabunan ng kumot ang binti niya kaya hindi ko alam kung marami din ba siyang
galos doon.

Natigilan ako nang may tumikhim sa harap ko. Nag-angat ako ng tingin dito at
napansing dismayado ang hitsura nito.

“B-bakit po, dok?” I asked nervously. May mali ba sa dugo ko?

He cleared his throat. “Wala ka bang kilalang pwedeng mag-donate sa kapatid mo?”

Nangunot ang noo ko. “B-bakit? May mali ba sa dugo ko?”

He shook his head. “The test results are fine. Wala kaming nakitang mali sa dugo
mo, Miss Martinez.”

“Oh, e bakit kayo maghahanap pa—”

“But your blood type doesn’t match,” he cut me.

Napipilan ako sa sinabi nito. “A-ano?”

“Your blood types aren't compatible to each other. Your blood type is AB positive,
right?” he asked, I nodded questioningly. Hindi ko na maalala ang blood type ko.
“Type O negative only receive O negative blood types as well.”

Those were the last words I heard from him. Natahimik ako at lutang na lumabas ng
emergency room. Hindi ko na alintana ang pamamanhid ng kanang braso ko. Para akong
zombie na naglalakad. My mind's in cloud and I don't know what to feel.

Bakit hindi kami magka-blood type?

Nang makalabas ako ay sinalubong ako ni mama at papa. Bakas ang pag-aalala sa mga
mukha nilang dalawa. Habang tinitignan ako.

“What's with your face, Vielle? What happened?” aligagang tanong nito.

I smiled weakly at them. “We don't share the same blood types.

“Our blood types aren't compatible to each other.”

Tulala akong nakatitig kay Daze na nakahiga sa kama dito sa loob ng ICU. It was
mother who donated her blood. Wala pa rin akong natanggap na explanation kung bakit
hindi nag-match ang dugo namin ni Daze. May parte sa'kin na umaasang baka hindi
kami magkaugnay. Ngunit alam kong imposible ang bagay na 'yun. Galing kaming pareho
sa sinapupunan ni mama.

“Anak,” mother called.

Pumasok siya sa ICU, nginitian ko ito. It's almost nine in the evening, aayain na
siguro niya akong umuwi.
“Na sa labas na si Nina, fiancée ng kuya mo. Siya daw muna ang magbahantay.” She
smiled at me. “Tara na?”

Muli akong sumulyap kay Daze bago tumango. Tumayo na ako at naunang maglakad
palabas ng ICU. Nang makalabas ako ay sinalubong ako ng isang magandang dilag.

She's wearing a blue dress and her hair was tied in a low ponytail. Pinakatitigan
ko ang mukha nito at mas lalong nanghina nang makita kung gaano siya kaganda.

“Ayos lang ba talaga sa'yo na ikaw muna ang magbantay kay Daze?” tanong ni mama.

She smiled and nodded. “Yes, tita.” Bumaling ito sa'kin. “Hi, I'm—”

I know it was rude, but I just didn't let her finish what she was going to say.
Naiirita ako sa presensiya niya kahit wala naman siyang ginagawa sa'kin. Mas mabait
pa nga siya Taliah, e. Hindi ko lang maunawaan kung bakit naiirita ako.

Kasi nagseselos ka, sabat ng kung sino man sa isipan ko.

I scoffed and went in directly into my father's car. Bakit naman ako magseselos?
Hindi ko naman siya boyfriend...

Kasi mahal mo, sagot naman ng isipan ko na ikinakulo ng dugo ko.

“Anak, are you okay?” alalang tanong ni papa habang nakatingin sa'kin mula sa
rearview mirror.

I took a deep breath to calm myself and nod. “Yes, pa. Inaantok lang.”

Kasunod kong pumasok sa loob ng sasakyan si mama. She settled herself on the front
seat and look at me over her shoulders. “That was rude of you, Elle.”

“I'm not just in the mood to talk, ma,” I murmured.

“Bakit ano ba ang ginawa niya?” tanong ni papa habang pinapaandar ang makina ng
sasakyan.

“She ignored Nina who was talking to her,” mother said and exhaled.

Hindi nalang ako nagsalita pa. Tualala pa rin ako, iniisip kung bakit ganun, bakit
hindi nag-match ang blood type namin ni Daze?

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at tumingin na sa labas ng bintana. I bit my

lower lip and yawned. I honestly feel drained. Maybe it was because of the
adrenaline rush I had this morning after knowing Daze got into an accident.

Tahimik lamang ako buong biyahe habang sila ay pinag-uusapan tungkol sa pagsasampa
ng kaso sa driver na nakabangga kay Daze. And honestly, wala akong gana. Bigla
akong nawalan ng gana.

“Ayos ka lang ba, anak?” asked by my father as soon as we got out from his car.

Tumango ako dito. “Pagod lang po ako, pa. Mauuna na ako.”

Hindi ko na inantay ang sagot niya. Pumasok na ako sa loob ng bahay at pumanhik
papuntang silid ko. Doon ko naabutan si Jarren na nakatutok sa tv at may hawak na
laruan. Napalingon ito sa'kin at agad na tumayo. Binitawan niya ang laruan at
naglakad palapit sa'kin.
Maluha-luha ang mga mata nitong dinambahan ako ng yakap. “Mommy, what happened to
dad? I'm sorry...” he cried.

Napabuntong-hininga ako at kinarga siya sa'king braso. I kissed his cheeks while
caressing
his back to calm him down. “Don't feel sorry, baby. It wasn't your fault.”

“M-maybe if I didn't f-force him to buy me toys he won't—”

“Hush,” I cut him and kissed his forehead. “Wala kang kasalanan. Daddy had only
minor damage, baby. He will heal fast.”

Tumango lang ito at siniksik ang kanyang mukha sa leeg ko. “I love you, mommy.”

“I love you, too,” I answered. “Did you eat already?”

Tumango lang ito at mas lalong sumiksik sa leeg ko. Hinihimas ko ang likod nito at
naglakad patungong kama. Nilagay ko sa nightstand ang kanyang mga laruan at hiniga
siya sa kama. Tumabi ako dito at ini-off ang ilaw gamit ang remote. I turned on the
lamp and wrapped my arms around my son.

Somehow, it feels like I'm hugging him. Gumaan ang pakiramdam ko dahil sa yakap ng
anak ko. Pansamantala kong inalis ang mga bumabagabag sa isip ko at mahinang
tinatapik ang binti ng anak ko para matulog.

Kinantahan ko ito ng mahina para makatulog. I kept singing until he fell asleep. I
heard his cute snores making me chuckle. Hinalikan ko ang noo nito bago dahan-
dahang binaklas ang kanyang braso sa'king bewang.

Maingat akong umalis ng kama at naglakad palabas ng silid. I glanced at him for the
last time before I close the door behind me. Gusto ko munang lumanghap ng sariwang
hangin. Bukas ang huling araw ng leave ko ngunit hindi pa ako nakapagpabook ng
ticket pauwi ng New York.

“I don't believe you're okay,” said by a voice behind my back. Nilingon ko ito at
hilaw na napangiti nang makita ko si papa na palapit sa deriksiyon ko.

“Pa,” I called him.

Umupo siya sa lounge na katabi ng sa akin at tumingin sa malawak na swimming pool.

“I know something's bothering my youngest. What is it?”

Bumuntong-hininga ako at tumimgin din sa kumikislap na tubig mula sa pool. “It's

about the blood donor thing.”

Tumango si papa. “Hmm, what about that?”

“Bakit hindi nag-match ang blood type ni Da— I mean, Kuya sa blood type ko?” takang
tanong ko. “Ampon ba ako?”

He chuckled with my question and shook his head. “I am an AB positive while your
mom is O negative.”

Naguguluhan akong tumingin sa kanya. “Pwede ba 'yun?”

“Yeah,” he replied and nodded. “It happens in rare cases. My blood type runs in you
while your mother's blood type runs in your brother.”

H-how is that possible?

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 36
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Chapter 36

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome onboard Flight 3B9 with service from New York to
Philippines. We are currently third in line for take-off and are expected to be in
the air in approximately seven minutes time. We ask that you please fasten your
seatbelts at this time and secure all baggage underneath your seat or in the
overhead compartments. We also ask that your seats and table trays are in the
upright position for take-off. Please turn off all personal electronic devices,
including laptops and cell phones. Smoking is prohibited for the duration of the
flight. Thank you for choosing Emirates Airlines. Enjoy your flight," anunsiyo ko.

Matapos ay agad akong nagtungo sa Economy class dahil doon ako naka-assigned.
Pasimple kong tinapunan ng mga tingin ang mga pasahero kung nakasuot na ba sila ng
kani-kanilang seat belts.

I saw kids happily and cheerfully talking to their parents. Bigla ko tuloy naalala
ang anak kong si Jarren, at kapag naaalala ko siya ay hindi ko maiwasang
mapabuntong-hininga. It's been a week since I last saw him. Hindi ko na kasi
magawang mag-add ng leave days dahil ayokong masisante. Kaya kahit na
nagdadalawang-isip akong aalis ba ako nang mga panahong 'yun dahil nasa ospital pa
rin si Daze, mas pinili ko na lang umalis. I realized, I'm not his fiancée. May
fiancée siya at 'yon ang mag-aalaga sa kanya.

Nagtungo ako sa upuang malapit sa pintuan dahil magti-take off na ang eroplano.
Sabik na rin akong makauwi ng Pilipinas dahil meron akong tatlong araw na vacant.
Minsan lang mangyari ang magka-vacant ilang araw kaya nasasabik na ako.

"Ang ganda mo talaga, Veille, kahit nakatulala ka." Siniko ako ng kapwa ko cabin
crew.

I look at her and showed her my tight smile. Hindi ko siya kilala. Almost all of my
co-cabin crew ay hindi ko kakilala. I'm not planning to know them, though. Hindi
naman kami magkakasama lagi sa flight. Different teams every day kaya hindi na ako
nag-abala pang kilalanin sila.

"Naiinggit ako sa'yo, ay hindi pala ako lang, pati 'yung ibang cabin crew," saad
nito at ngumuso. "Feeling nga namin crush ka ni Captain Alcantara, e."

Nangunot ang noo ko. "Captain Alcantara?"

She eyed me like I've grown two heads. "Hindi mo ba binasa ang listahan ng flight
crews kanina?"

"Binasa," I replied. "But I can't recall."

Napatingin ako dito nang may mapagtanto ako. Why is she talking tagalog? Filipino
ba siya? I cleared my throat and shrugged to myself. Seriously, I'm not interested,
just wondering.

"Ang gwapo talaga ni captain Alcantara," she said and dreamingly look at the
speakers when the captain made an announcement.
"Good morning passengers. This is your captain, Eli Alcantara, speaking. First I'd
like to welcome everyone on Rightwing Flight 3B9. We are currently cruising at an
altitude of..."

"Pati boses ang gwapo," she exclaimed and pinched a skin on my arms. Nang ma-
realized niya ang nagawa ay humingi kaagad siya ng paumanhin.

I chuckled and shook my head. "Since when did the voice became handsome?"

"Since Eli Alcantara spoke." She giggled. "Ang gwapo din naman kasi ni captain Eli,
e. Matangkad at napakamaskulado ng katawan. Daig pa man ang yelo sa pakikipag-usap
pero sabi-sabi sweet daw siya sa parent at kapatid niya."

Namataan ko ang isang ginang na sa tingin ko'y nahihirapang ikabit ang kanyang
seatbelt.

"Ang dami mo namang alam," I said and unbuckled my seatbelt.

"Vielle, saan ka pupunta? Magti-take off na," I heard her said.

Nilapitan ko ang ginang at agad na pinakita ang pinagpraktisan kong ngiti. "Would
like me to assist you, ma'am?"

Nag-angat ito ng tingin sa'kin at ngumiti. "Could you, please? I'm really
struggling."

I smiled at her and bend forward to help her fastened her seatbelt. Matapos ay
ginawaran ko ulit ito ng tipid na ngiti bago nagmamadaling bumalik sa'ming upuan. I
fastened my seatbelt when the girl beside me spoke.

"Ang bait mo talaga, Vielle. Paniguradong kapag nakita ni captain Eli magugustuhan
ka nu'n." She giggled once again.

Napailing ako dito at naramdaman ko na ang pagtakbo ng eroplano. "I already have a
child."

Tinignan ako nito. Bakas sa kanyang itsura na parang hindi siya makapaniwala.
"Totoo? Single mom?"

Nagdadalawang-isip ako. Tatango ba ako o iiling? But in the end, napag-isipan kong
tumango at umayos na ng upo. She keep talking beside me and I just ignored her.
Nakakarindi sa tenga ang boses niya, hindi ba siya tatahimik?

"Naka-safety briefing na ba?" I asked her.

She nodded. "Hindi mo ba napansin?"

Paano ko mapapansin, e ang daldal mo? Nakakairita. Kung gusto niya 'yung piloto,
ba't hindi niya landiin?

"Alam mo ba, that captain is a businessman also. Imagine how rich he is right now,"
she murmured.

Napairap ako sa'king sarili. Mas mayaman pa mga Martinez, mas mayaman kami.

Nang tuluyan nang makalipad ang eroplano ay maagap kaming tumayo upang puntahan ang
mga pasaherong nanghihingi ng assistance. Kanya-kanya kami ng nilapitang pasahero
upang tanungin kung ano ang mga kinakailangan nila o kung may maitutulong kami.
The middle-aged lady I assissted a moment before take off called my attention.
Nilapitan ko kagaad ito at nginitian.

"Can I ask for a coffee? I-I'm feeling anxious," she said.

Tumango ako dito at lumisan para kunin ang kanyang kinakailangan. Dumiretso ako sa
galley at nagtimpla ng kape. Seriously, buong akala ko ay kapag flight attendant
ka, dapat seryoso ka, ngunit parang kabaligtaran 'ata. Look at these pips talking
about that hot flight captain.

"Ako na magbibigay ng pagkain sa cockpit mamaya," tila kinikilig na sambit nito.

Are they Filipinos?

"No. I'll be the one to take the foods there," kontra naman ng isang babaeng sa
tingin ko ay ubod ng sungit. Well, mabait naman ako, e.

"Miss Martinez will the one to take the food to the captain later," saad ng head
namin na siyang ipinagtaka ko.

Nilingon ko sila at kita ko kung paano nila ako tapunan ng masamang tingin. "I'm in
economy class."

"You'll be the one to take the foods. You are the only cabin crew whom I see that
didn't give a damn to that captain."

Napabuga ako ng hangin. E ano naman ngayon? Dinadagdagan pa nila trabaho ko, letse
talaga.

--

Napahilot ako sa aking balikat habang iniimpake ang mga gamit ko sa maleta. We
already arrived at our destination, Philippines. Excited na akong umuwi sa bahay
dahil sa kaalamang inaantay ako ng anak kong umuwi. I even bought him so many damn
toys. I missed him.

Nagmamadali akong bumaba ng eroplano para makahabol sa mga kasamahan ko at tuwid na

naglakad. Hindi ko alam kung bakit sa bawat lagatak ng heels ko ay gumagaan ang
pakiramdam ko.

Habang naglalakad, umugong ang phone na hawak ko kaya agad ko itong sinagot. It was
mother.

"Anak!" sa halip na boses ni mama Danica ang marinig ko, it was mama Amelia's voice
who
exclaimed.

"Ma?" Nilayo ko ang phone sa'king tenga para tignan kung si mama Danica ba talaga
ang tumatawag. It was her number. Ngunit bakit si mama Amelia ang sumagot? "Ma
Amelia?"

I heard her chuckled. "Yes, Vielle. Na sa Pilipinas kami. Pauwi ka na ba?"

Bigla akong nakaramdam ng excitement. "Pauwi na, ma. Kasama niyo si Arthemis?"

"Hey, stop calling me with my full name!" sabad ng isang boses na napakapamilyar sa
pandinig ko.

"Manahimik ka muna diyan," paninita ni mama na ikinangiti ko. "Anyways, Vielle.

Umuwi ka na. Excited na akong pag-usapan ang kasal niyo."

Bahagya akong natigilang sa paglalakad nang marining ko ang sinabi nito. But I
immediately compose myself and continue walking. "Yes, ma."

"Sige, ingat ka pauwi."

I just hummed and ended the call. Kaya pala nandito sila ng Pilipinas. Para ituloy
ang naudlot naming kasalan ni Art pitong taon na ang nakakalipas. And seriously,
hindi pa rin ako sigurado. But whenever I remember Daze's fiancée, I would always
think of agreeing to this fixed marriage. Kasi wala rin namang patutunguhan ang
sa'min ni Daze, e.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga. Hindi ko namalayang nakalabas na pala ako ng

airport kaya pumara nalang ako ng taxi. May huminto naman kaagad sa harap ko.
Binuksan ko ang backseat at akmang papasok na nang may humawak sa braso ko.

"Hija," she said. "What's your name again?"

It was the woman who asked for my assistance on-board. Nginitian ko ito. "Vielle,
po. Vielle Martinez."

I saw how she got taken aback upon hearing my name. "M-Martinez?"

Nagtataka man ay tumango ako. Sinenyasan ko naman ang driver na saglit lang dahil
may kausap pa ako. "Bakit po?"

"Nothing," she replied and shook her head. Her eyes are misty. "Ang laki mo na."

Nangunot ang noo ko nang hindi ko marinig ang sinabi niya. "Po?"

"Ang sabi ko salamat sa pag-assist sa'kin sa flight kanina. Ingat ka pauwi." She
smiled.

Nawi-weirdohan akong tumango at nagpaalam. Pumasok na ako sa loob ng taxi at

sinambit ang Martinez Mansion. Gusto ko muna magpahinga kahit saglit. Next week ay
may lay-over kami sa Columbia for one week. Nakakapagod.

Naging mabilis lamang biyahe papuntang mansion namin. I paid the driver before I
went out of his taxi. Sinalubong naman ako ng guwardiya at siya ang nagbitbit ng
bagahe ko papasok sa loob ng kabahayan. I yawned. Bente-kwatro oras ang biyahe
galing New York kaya gabi na.

"Mommy!"

Jarren ran to me and clung his arms around my neck making me smile. Kinarga ko
naman ito at tumuwid ng tayo. I kissed his cheeks and continue walking to enter the
mansion.

"Ma," I greeted my mother and also ma Amelia.

"Glad you're finally home. Kumain ka na ba?" tanong ni mama.

Umiling ako dito. "Hindi pa, po. Pero busog naman po ako kasi kumain na ako doon sa
loob ng eroplano."

My mother nodded. Naramdaman ko namang may umakbay sa'kin. Nilingon ko ito at tama
na ang hinala ko. It was Art, smiling sheepisly and winking at me. Mukhang gago.
"Kumusta ang flight?" tanong niya at kinuha sa pagkakakarga ko si Jarren.

I shrugged. "Pagod."

"Magpahinga ka nalang muna, Vielle. Bukas nalang tayo mag-usap," nakangiting tugon
ni ma Amelia.

Ngumiti ako dito at naglibot ng paningin. Naka-discharged na kaya siya? Wala kasi
siya sa paligid.

"Your brother is on his room. Kakadischarge niya lang nung nagdaang araw," sambit
ni mama na parang alam ang takbo ng utak ko.

Nagpaalam na ako sa kanila na magpapahinga muna. Jarren insisted to sleep with his
papa Art and I can't do anything about it kaya pumanhik na ako sa'king silid.

Pasimple akong sumulyap sa nakasaradong pinto ni Daze bago pumasok sa loob ng silid
ko. I took off my uniform and went into the shower. Binabad ko naman muna ang
sarili ko sa bathtub bago nagbanlaw sa shower.

Nagsuot ako ng nighties at nag-blow dry muna ng buhok bago lumabas ng banyo.
Bahagyang gumaan ang pakiramdam ko at sa tingin ko'y magiging mahimbing ang tulog
ko.

I didn't locked the door para makapasok si Jarren kung nais niyang matulog na
katabi ako. Dumiretso na ako ng higa sa kama at pinatay ang ilaw ng buong silid,
pwera lang sa lamp na nasa nightstand ko.

I hugged my pillow tight as my mind starting to wander. I'm thinking if should I

just let myself marry Art? Komportable na ako sa kanya at kung financial ang pag-
uusapan, mayaman naman ang mga Ledwidge. Handa rin siyang magpakatatay ng anak ko.
Ngunit bakit nagdadalawang-isip ako?

Kasi inaantay mong baka sakaling mabago ang kapalaran mo ng kapatid mo, bulong ng
maliit na boses na utak ko.

I took a deep breath. Siguro tama siya. Umaasa ako na baka isa sa amin ang hindi
Martinez, ngunit paano? I came from mama Danica's womb. Imposibleng hindi ko siya
ina.

Dahil siguro sa pagod ay nakatulog ako nang hindi ko namamalayan. Nagising na lang
ako nang maramdaman kong may brasong nakapulupot sa bewang ko. Hinawakan ko ito sa
pag-aakalang si Jarren, ngunit masyadong malaki ang braso na nahawakan ko para
maging si Jarren.

Babalikwas na sana ako ng bangon ngunit humigpit ang pagkakayapos nito sa bewang
ko. His scent lingered on my nose.

"Stay still. I want to sleep beside you," he mumbled.

Nanatili akong nakatalikod sa kanya. His breathing are fanning my nape and I felt
him buried his face at the hallow of my neck.

"Daze..."

"I never thought a week not seeing you would be a torture," he mumbled once again.

Nakagat ko ang aking ibabang labi nang makaramdam ako ng saya sa'king puso. I
missed him, too. But I can't say it.
"B-bakit ka nandito? 'Yung fiancée mo?" I asked in a low voice.

Mas lalo niya pang diniin ang kanyang mukha sa'king leeg. "Don't marry him,
please."

"W-why?" I gulped.

He started planting small wet kisses on my neck. "Ayokong mawala ka ulit."

Tumikhim ako upang alisin ang parang bikig sa lalamunan ko. "Magkapatid tayo."

"I don't care. You are made for me. Mine alone. You can even ask the stars. They
wrote that you are bound to be mine," he murmured.

My heart's beating becomes erratic. Wala sa sarili akong napakapit sa braso niyang
nakapulupot sa bewang ko.

Damn, this man knows just how to flutter my heart. Nagiging marupok ako pagdating
kay Daze Jaden Martinez...

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 37
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Chapter 37

Wala na si Daze nang magising ako kinabukasan kaya napagdesisyunan kong maligo at
magbihis bago lumabas ng aking silid. I choose to wore a white shirt and a faded
blue shorts.

“Jarren, did you slept with papa Art last night?” tanong ko sa bata nang madatnan
ko ito sa kusina.

I saw Daze stilled and his brows furrowed. Tinignan niya ako na para bang may
narinig siyang hindi kaaya-aya sa kanyang tenga. Hindi ko na lang ito pinansin at
bumaling kay Jarren.

Masayang tumango ang bata. “Yes, mom.”

Ngumiti ako dito. Umupo na ako sa upuang katabi niya at nagsandok na rin ng
makakain ko. I was busy putting rice on my plate when a maid came to enter the
dining area.

“Madam Danica, Sir Daniel, may naghahanap po sa inyo sa labas,” sambit ng maid.

Nangunot ang noo ni mama. “In this early morning? Who?”

Mas lalong nangunot ang noo ko kay mama. Anong early morning? E, alas nuwebe na ng
umaga, early morning pa?

“Hindi po siya nagpakilala. Ngunit ang sabi niya po, may impormasyon po siyang
hawak na dapat malaman niyo.”

“Papasukin niyo,” matigas na saad ni Daze dahilan upang lingunin namin siya. “It
might be very important since she came here in this early morning.”
“Daze,” paninita ni mama. “We don't know that person. Bakit ka magpapapasok ng
estranghero sa mansion?”

“We have guards, ma, if ever she did something suspicious,” sagot naman ni Daze at
bumaling sa maid. “Let her in. Magpabantay ka ng dalawang guard sa main door. Make
her wait in the living room.”

“Masusunod, po.”

Agad na tumalima ang maid. Nagpatuloy ako sa pagsubo dahil ayaw ni Jarren na subuan
ko siya. Natigilan din ako sa pagkain nang mapansin kong wala si Art.

“Jarren,” I called my son. “You slept with papa Art, right? Where is he now?”

“Umuwi muna si Art para sunduin ang kanyang mga magulang. They'll be here any
moment by now,” sagot ni mama na may ngiti sa labi.

Tumango ako at nagpatuloy sa pagkain. Someone entered the dining once again and I
didn't bother to turn my head and look at that person. Gutom ako dahil hindi ako
nakahapunan kagabi.

“Daze,” a soft voice chanted.

Hindi ko maiwasang mag-angat ng tingin dito. Dahil nga sa magkaharap kami ng upuan
ni Daze, kita ko kung paano dumapo ang labi ng magandang dilag sa labi ni Daze. I
saw him stilled and look at me. Nag-iwas na lang ako ng tingin at nagpatuloy sa
pagkain.

“Why did you kissed daddy?”

Halos sabay kaming lahat na natigilan nang magsalita si Jarren. His voice is low,
but hard and cold. Nilingon ko ito at pilit na nginitian. “That's his fiancée,
baby.”

“What? But you—”

Agad ko siyang sinubuan. He look at me with a cold stare before chewing his food.
Hindi na siya nagsalita pa na ikinahinga ko ng maluwag. Umupo naman ang fiancée ni
Daze sa tabi niya at binati sila mama.

Napasinghap ako nang biglang binitawan ni Jarren ang kubyertos at tumama ito sa
pinggan na
nagsanhi ng ingay. I saw them look at my son, including Daze and his fiancée.

“Baby, are you—”

“I lost my appetite,” he murmured. Inusog niya ang kanyang upuan palayo sa mesa at
bumaba sa kanyang silya.

He walked out of the dining area leaving us dumbfounded. Nagkatinginan kami at

napahugot ako ng hininga.

“What's with Jarren, Vielle? May ayaw ba siya sa foods?” nagtatakang tanong ni
mama.

Tumikhim ako at pilit na ngumiti. “H-hindi ko po alam. Kakausapin ko nalang. Alis

muna ako.”

Bigla na rin akong nawalan ng gana kumain. Nagpunas ako ng tissue sa'king labi bago
tumayo at nginitian sila. Nagmamadali akong naglakad palabas ng dining area sa
kabila ng panginginig ng tuhod ko.

Nasasaktan ako. Hinding-hindi ko ipagkakaila ang bagay na 'yun. Pero kahit naman
madurog ako, wala rin namang patutunguhan ang lahat. Maybe marrying Art would be
the best choice for me. Hindi naman mahirap mahalin si Art, e. Hindi ko lang
maunawaan sa sarili ko kung bakit hindi ko magawang mahalin ang unggoy na 'yun. I
don't wanna lose Art, he became an important person to me, but I can't love him
either. I don't know.

Nang makarating ako ng living room, bahagya akong nagulat nang makilala ko ang
babaeng nakaupo sa sofa at naglilibot ng tingin sa buong bahay. Her eyes landed on
me and a smile stretched her lips. Tumayo ito at mas lumawak pa ang kanyang ngiti.

Nagtataka man ay nilapitan ko ito. “Uhm, ma'am?” I asked.

“Just call me Arlyn,” she said.

Tumango ako. “Bakit ka po nandito?”

“Sinundan kita kagabi,” saad niya na bahagya kong ipinagtaka. She speak tagalog? “I
waa curious kung saan ka na nakatira kaya sinundan kita. Isa pa, may mahalagang
impormasyon na dapat malaman.”

“Hello, world!” bati ng isang lalaking pumasok sa loob ng mansiyon.

Pinanliitan ko ng mata si Art na naglakad patungo sa'kin. He kissed my cheeks at

kasunod niya naman si ma Amelia at papa Edcel. I greeted them and their attention
settled on the aged woman I assisted onboard. Kita ko ang bahagyang pagkagulat sa
mata ni ma Amelia nang makita ang unexpected guest namin.

“Nurse Arlyn?” she asked in confusion.

Tumango naman ang babae at ngumiti. “Kumusta, Misses Ledwidge?” pagbati ng babae at
ngumiti.

Bahagya akong napaatras nang dambahan ng yakap ni ma Amelia si nurse Arlyn.

“Salamat naman at nakita na kita! I've been searching the whole New York to find
you. What brought you here?”

Kumalas sila sa yakapan. Inaya naman siya ni papa Edcel na maupo kaya naupo na rin
ako.

“I actually came here to tell something important,” the nurse said.

Nagkatinginan si papa Edcel at ma Amelia sa narinig. Sakto namang lumabas sila mama
at papa mula sa dining area. Lumapit din ito sa pwesto namin at bumeso sa isa't-
isa. At katulad ng ekspresiyon ni ma Amelia, kita ko ang gulat sa mga mata. But my
mother's eyes flickered with hatred.

“Anong ginagawa mo dito?” tanong ni mama.

Kita ko namang hinawakan ni papa ang braso ni mama. “Calm down, hon.”

“Anong calm down?! Dahil sa kapabayaan niya muntikan nang mamatay sa sunog si
Vielle!” asik ni mama.

“Kumalma ka, Danica,” sambit ni mama Amelia. “You should be thankful she was able
to save your daughter.”
Natahimik naman si mama sa lintiya ni ma Amelia. Naupo sila mama sa mga bakanteng
upuan at kasama na doon si Daze na hindi ko namalayang nandito pala.

“What is it you want to say? Spill so you can leave.” matigas na saad ni mama na
bahagyang ikinagulat ko. Mother was never been so cold like this.

Humugot ng hininga si nurse Arlyn pilit na ngumiti. Katabi niya sa mabahang sofa si
mama Amelia at katabi ni ma Amelia si papa Edcel habang kami ni Art ay nakatayo
lang, ganon din si Daze.

Nilabas niya ang isang folder na may lamang sa tingin ko'y lumang papel. She placed
it above the center table and look at each one of us.

“I know this information would make you all mad at me, but I can't keep it anymore.
Hindi matahimik ang konsensiya ko,” panimula nito. “But Amelia, buhay ang anak mo.”

Ramdam ko ang pagkislot ni Art sa tabi ko dahil nakaakbay siya sa'kin. Buhay ang
kambal ni Art?

“What?” ma Amelia's eyes watered. “W-what do you mean? Patay na siya, 'di ba?”

“Stop talking nonsense, Arlyn,” mariing saad ni papa.

“That is not nonsense, Daniel. You know it from the start,” mariing bigkas ng
nurse. “Why didn't you tell them?”

Lahat kami ay napatingin kay papa. His hand balled into fist. “Wala akong alam sa
sinasabi mo.”

Kita ko ang bahagyang pagngisi ng nurse na ipinagtaka ko. Okay what's going on?
Bakit ganito ang inaakto nila? Dapat ba kaming makinig dito o ano?

“T-teka, naguguluhan ako. Anong kinalaman ni Daniel sa impormasyong sasabihin mo?

At anong buhay ang anak ko? Please, clarify everything,” maluha-luha saad ni mama
Amelia na kagaya ko ay nalilito.

“Buhay si Athena, Misses Ledwidge. I saw her on the plane on my way to

Philippines,” the woman said and her gaze dropped at me.

Napalunok ako kasabay ng pagnginig ng tuhod ko. Ramdam ko ang brasong sumalo sa
bewang ko para hindi ako tuluyang matumba. Art held me still while listening to
their conversation.

Iniwas ng babae ang paningin niya sa'kin at malungkot na ngumiti. “That burning
hospital kept haunting me for many years.”

“Paanong naalala mo pa?” tanong naman ni papa Edcel. “That was exactly twenty-eight
years ago.”

“Hinding-hindi ko makakalimutan ang mga panahong 'yun, Mister Ledwidge. Kahit pa

yata ibagok ko ang aking ulo sa semento.” She took a deep breath. “That day was the
worst day of my life.”

“Could you just straight to the point? Bakit damay ang asawa ko dito?” Iritadong
tanong ni mama.

“It was exactly seven in the evening. I was busy putting tags on the babies'
wrists. Magkatabi si Artemis at Athena dahil kambal sila, at kasunod naman ng
hinihigaan nila ay si Vielle,” panimula nito. “I find Vielle and Art cute, kaya
pansamantala kong pinagpalit si Vielle at Athena dahil gusto kong ipagtabi silang
dalawa ni Art. I even find it amusing when Art touched Vielle's hand.”

Mas napahigpit ang kapit ni Art sa bewang ko. Halos kapusin na rin ako ng hininga
habang pinapakinggan ang babaeng nagsasalita. Dawit kaming lahat kaya mas lalo
akong naintrigang makinig.

“But a sudden shaking of the ground occur. Nasunog na pala ang pangalawang palapag
at naghulugan na ang bitak ng mga semento...” A tear dropped on her cheeks that she
didn't mind at all. “The nurses rushed inside the nursery and rescued the babies.
Baby Athena was situated near the door that's why I immediately pushed her cart out
of the room.”

“T-then what happened?” Nanginginig ang boses ni mama Amelia.

“Mister Ledwidge and Mister Martinez came to rescue the babies,” she said. “Ngunit
hindi ko na maabot si baby Vielle. T-the debris fell on her stroller and it
immediately collapsed. Kinuha ni Mister Martinez si Athena matapos makita ang
nangyari habang si Mister Ledwidge ay nalilito kung paano niya kukunin si Vielle sa
ilalim ng malaking bitak ng semento. Tulala siya nang mga panahong 'yun. H-he
thought it was his daughter. Nais ko mang magpaliwanag ngunit guguho na ang silid
kaya nagmadali kong pinulot si Arthemis at hinila ang asawa mo palabas.”

Rinig ko ang paghikbi ni mama Amelia at kasabay nu'n ang nanginginig na boses ni
mama Danica. “I-ibig mong sabihin...”

“It wasn't Athena who died. It was Vielle,” she said. “Kaya nagulat ako nang
marinig
ang pangalan niya sa eroplano. Mas lalo lamang akong nabagabag dahil hindi niyo pa
pala nalaman ang totoo.”

“That's nonsense!” sigaw ni papa.

“I-ibig sabihin, there was a baby switch happened?” nanghihinang tanong ni mama
Amelia.

“No,” the lady answered. “Alam ni Mister Martinez na si Athena ang kinuha niya at
hindi si Vielle. May name tags sila. Hindi ko alam kung kinuha ba ni Mr. Martinez
ang tag para hanggang ngayon ay Vielle pa rin ang dalang pangalan ni Athena.”

Tuluyan nang nanghina ang tuhod ko sa narinig. Maagap naman ang braso ni Art na
yumakap sa bewang ko kasabay ng paghagugol ko. H-hindi ako Martinez?

“No!” Tumayo si mama. “Anak ko si Vielle!”

“Totoo ang mga sinabi ko. Hindi si Athena ang namatay. Kundi ang anak niyo,” wika
ng babae. “You can even ask your husband about that incident.”

“You!” tumayo si papa at lalapitan sana ang babae nang tumayo din si papa Edcel at
sinalubong ng suntok si papa.

“After all this time, alam mo pala ang katotohanan!” sigaw ni papa Edcel at muling
sinuntok si papa Daniel.

Binitawan ako ni Art at umawat kay papa at papa Edcel.

“Ginawa mo kaming tanga!” Papa Edcel kept throwing him punches.

“Bakit ko naman kukunin—”

Naputol ang sasabihin ni papa nang suntukin siyang muli ni papa Edcel. “Kinuha mo
ang anak ko dahil mahal mo pa rin si Amelia!”

Natigilan kaming lahat. Kahit si mama at mama Amelia ay natulala sa narinig. A-ano?

“Wala kang alam, Edcel,” mariing sambit ni papa.

Papa Edcel laughed nonchalantly and said, “Marami akong alam, Daniel. Sa tingin mo
hindi ko mapapagtagpi-tagpi ang mga pangyayari? You stole my daughter instead of
saving yours and fooled all of us because you still love my wife! You asshole!”

Tuluyang nawalan ng lakas ang buo kong katawan at napasalampak ako sa sahig. A
small arms wrapped around my neck and hug me. Tuloy-tuloy sa pagdaloy ang luha sa
mga mata ko habang pinoproseso ng utak ko ang mga pangyayari.

Ako si Athena?

Ako ang kambal ni Art?

H-hindi ako Martinez?

“Mommy, stop crying,” my son murmured.

“Mommy!” rinig kong sigaw ni Art.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanila at nakita kong nawalan ng malay ni mama Amelia.
Art left his father and run to mama Amelia. Natigilan naman si papa at papa Edcel
nang makitang nawalan ng malay ang mama ni Art. I look at my mother's direction and
found her staring over the horizon. Nasa likod niya si Daze at pinapakalma si mama
sa pamamagitan ng paghaplos sa likod niya. How can he be so calm after all these
revelation?!

“I will sue you for this, Daniel. Hinding-hindi kita tatantanan,” mariing bigka ni
papa Edcel bago tumayo at tumakbo patungo kay mama Amelia. “Arthemis, bring Vielle
and Jarren with you.”

Napatingin ako kay papa na nakahiga sa lapag at humuhugot ng malalim na hininga

habang nakatitig sa chandelier.

“Let's go, Vielle,” saad ni Arthemis at kinarga si Jarren. Tinulungan niya akong
makatayo at nagmamadaling umalis ng kabahayan.

I'm still trembling.

Am I dreaming?

Totoo ba talaga ang lahat ng 'to?

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 38
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Chapter 38

“Papa,” I called him. He's standing near the glass wall. Nakatitig ito sa malawak
na siyudad ng Manila.

We're here in a very wide and big condominuim of Rial Condo. Malaki ang espasyo ng
sala nito, kusina at may terrace pa. May tatlong silid at ang isa ay inuukupa ni
mama Amelia na hanggang ngayon ay tulog pa.

He turned his head to look at me and smile. He motioned me to come over, and that's
what I did. Nilapitan ko siya at agad niya naman akong niyakap.

Parang biglaang gumaan ang pakiramdam ko sa uri ng yakap ni papa. He's hugging me
as if I was lost for many years. I could feel his longing between our hugs.

“I never thought my babygirl was alive,” he murmured.

I hugged him back, much tighter than his. Diniin ko ang mukha ko sa kanyang dibdib
at hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili kong umiyak. Hindi ko rin inakalang hindi ako
nabibilang sa pamilyang Martinez.

“Dad,” said by a voice behind us. “Can we talk?”

Kumalas ako sa yakap kay papa Edcel at bumaling kay Art na seryoso ang mukha.
Ngumiti ako dito at akmang lilisan na sana nang hawakan ni Art ang braso ko.

“With Vielle...” he added.

Tumango si papa at tinuro ang sofa. Art pulled me to sit beside him on the long
sofa while
papa sit on the single one. Kita kong humugot ito ng hininga.

“Anong gusto mong pag-usapan natin?” he asked.

“Paano mo nalamang mahal ni tito si mommy?” Art asked.

Kahit ako ay naguguluhan. Ibig sabihin, magkakilala na si papa at papa edcel dati
pa?

Papa Edcel took a deep breath. “Me and your tito Daniel are college bestfriends.”

“Then?”

“He likes your mommy Amelia even before they met,” papa answered.

“How did you end up being with mommy?” takang tanong ni Art.

“It was a fixed marriage.” He took a deep breath. “At first I declined. But just
like how we planned you two to live in a single roof, ganoon din kami. Pinatira
kami sa iisang bubong. Hindi mahirap mahalin si Amelia. She's kind, sweet,
carefree, and even her actions were sincere. I can't help myself to fall in love
with her. She's too kind and beautiful that I forgot my bestfriend like her, too.

“That one time when I decided to tell him that I'm bound to marry Amelia, he told
me he impregnated Danica— Amelia's bestfriend, and that child was Daze. Nang
sabihin ko na ikakasal kami ni Amelia, he didn't replied nor nod. Hindi rin siya
sumipot sa kasal namin. After five years, sabay na nagbuntis si Danica at ang mommy
niyo. That's what happened.” Kita ko ang pagkuyom ng kamao nito. “I'llv sue him for
stealing my child.”

“No,” agad kong sabat. Umiling ako sa kanilang dalawa. “Papa, huwag niyong
ipakulong si papa Daniel. Inalagaan niya naman ako ng mabuti. He treated me as his
own.”

“Of course he'll treat you as his own. You looked like your mother.” He chuckled
nonchalantly. “Hinding-hindi ko palalampasin ang ginawa niya, Vielle.”

“Ngunit ayokong makulong ang lolo ng anak ko,” I said. “Please, papa. Don't sue
him. S-siguro may dahilan pa si papa Daniel para kunin niya ako. Let's not jump
into conclusion.”

“Lolo ng anak mo?” Art interjected. “You mean?”

Nakagat ko ang aking ibabang labi at napayuko. “S-si Daze ang ama ng anak ko.”

“Fuck!” halos sabay silang dalawa sa pagmura na ikinaigtad ko.

“Ngayon, mas naging desidido ako na ipakulong si Daniel,” nagngingitngit na sambit

ni papa Edcel. “Maiwan muna kayo dito. Art contact that woman who busted the truth.
I'm gonna call the autority.”

Nang tumayo ito ay agad din akong tumayo at hinarang ang dinaraanan niya. Hot tears
are rolling down my cheeks.

“Please, papa, no.” Umiling ako dito at hinawakan ang kanyang braso. “Huwag niyong
ipakulong si papa.”

“No. I'll make them pay. Including Daze,” mariing sambit ni papa.

“No!” Umiling ako dito at napaluhod. Hinawakan ko ang pantalon nito habang umiiyak.
“Papa, no. Huwag, please.”

Pinipilit akong tumayo ni Art ngunit pinipiksi ko lang ang hawak nito at patuloy sa
pag-iyak. I can't let the cops arrest Daze.

“He raped you!”

“He didn't!” I said. “I-I submitted myself. I was willing, papa. Please, don't sue
him. Please.”

“Vielle, tumayo na ka. Stop it.” Pinipilit akong tumayo ni Art ngunit pumupumiglas
ako. “You can't change his decision.”

Umiling ako. “Papa, please no. Para kay Jarren. Ayokong lumaki ang anak kong nasa
kulungan ang ama niya.”

“You can't change my mind, Vielle,” papa Edcel said and walked passed me.

Tuluyan na akong napaupo sa sahig habang umiiyak. Art wrapped his arms around me,
trying to comfort me. Ngunit mas lalo lamang akong naiyak.

“Hindi siya pwedeng makulong. I-I can't let that happen,” humarap ako kay Art.
“Art, please help me persuade him. Please, Art. Tulungan mo ako.”

He looked away. Looking so hesistant. “Hindi ako sigurado, Vielle. Ngunit susubukan
ko. Tahan ka na.”

Inalalayan niya ako sa pagtayo at pinaupo sa sofa. He kissed my forehead before

rushing towards the kichen. Nang bumalik ito ay may bitbit na itong isang baso ng
tubig.
“Here, drink water first.” He offered me the glass.

Tinanggap ko ito at tinunga. Matapos ay binigay ko sa kanya ang baso at nilapag

niya naman ito sa mesa. Umupo siya sa tabi ko at hinawakan ang kamay ko.

“Feeling better now?” he asked.

Tumango ako dito. “Where's Jarren?”

“He's asleep beside mommy.” Humugot ito ng malalim na hininga. “It's good to know
he didn't witnessed what happened.”

Tumango lang ako dito at sumandal sa aking inuupuan. Bumuga ako ng hangin habang
nakatitig sa kisame ng sala.

“Dad told me to book a flight back to New York as soon as possible,” he said.

Tinignan ko ito. “Hindi ako sasama.”

“But he already told me to book five. That includes you and Jarren.” Hinilot nito
ang kamay ko. “Relax. I'll try to convince him.”

“Thank you,” I murmured.

He patted my head and smiled. “Anything for my twin.”

Kusa akong napangiti nang marinig ko ang sinabi nito. Twin. Right, he's my twin.

--

Tumango si mama at ngumiti. She cupped Art's cheeks, then mine. “Huwag na kayong
umalis sa tabi mommy, okay?”

Napangiti kami ni Art. Akmang magsasalita na ako nang unahan ako ng gunggong.
“Sadly, Vielle will be married soon.”

“With?” Nangunot ang noo ni mama.

“My daddy,” sagot naman ni Jarren na parang butiki na nakadikit sa lola niya.

Mas lalong nangunot ang noo ni mama— I mean, mommy. “Sino ba ang daddy mo Jarren?”

I saw my son opened his mouth and was about to answer when we heard the doorbell.
Nagkatinginan kaming apat.

“Where's Edcel?” tanong ni mommy.

Art shrugged. “Maybe in the kitchen.”

Nang muling mag-door bell ay napagdesisyunan ni Art na buksan ang pinto. Was it the
cops? Napatingin ako sa'king relo. Alas singko na ng hapon at kaninang tanghali pa
sinabi ni papa na ipapaaresto niya sila Daze at papa Daniel sa pulis.

“Anyways,” mom said the moment Art left the room. “Did you packed your things
already?”

Umiling ako dito at biglang nakahanap ng lusot. “May lay-over kami dito sa Maynila,
ma.”
“Ganoon ba?” she asked in a soft voice while caressing my son's hair.

Tumango ako. Nguniti natigilan kami nang makarinig kami ng para bang nagkakagulo sa
sala. Tumayo ako at nagmamadaling lumabas ng silid. My mouth gaped in horror seeing
Daze lying on the floor, coughing blood.

“You will never deserve my daughter, Martinez,” mariing bigkas ni papa.

“Dad,” pilit na pinipigilan ni Art si papa ngunit hinila nito ang collar ni Daze at
muli na
namang sinuntok.

Putang ina, Daze. Please manlaban ka.

Muli na namang napahiga si Daze sa lakas ng pagkakasuntok ni papa. Wala sa sarili

akong tumungo sa pwesto ni Daze at umupo. Maluha-luha ang mga mata kong kinapa ang
pisngi at panga ni Daze na ikinaungol niya sa sakit.

“Umalis ka diyan, Vielle,” I heard papa said.

Umiling ako at humarap sa kanya. “Please, papa. Don't hurt him.”

“Pinagsamantalahan ka ng lalaking 'yan, pagkatapos siya pa rin ang lalabanan mo?!”

galit nitong ani. “Umalis ka at huwag kang makialam dito.”

I saw Art approaching me. Umiling ako dito at mas napaiyak ako nang pilit niya
akong pinapatayo habang bumubulong na sundin ko na lang si daddy. I tried
struggling from his hold but he's much stronger than me.

Wala akong ibang nagawa kundi ang panoorin paano paulanan ng suntok ni papa si Daze
na hindi man lang lumaban. He keep throwing punches to Daze. Punch after punch.

“Papi, no!”

Natigilan kaming lahat nang tumakbo si Jarren patungo sa pwesto ng ama niya at
umupo sa tabi nito. Pilit namang bumangon si Daze sa pamamagitan ng pagtukod sa
kanyang siko para suportahan ang kabigatan niya.

Jarren hugged Daze's neck while crying. “Don't hurt my daddy, papi.”

Hindi nagsalita si papa at pinanood lang ang batang nagsusumamong 'wag saktan ang
ama niya. I feel like my heart pierced with the view. Pilit na inaalis ni Daze ang
maliit na braso ni Jarren sa kanyang leeg habang may binubulong. Jarren on the
otther side is stubborn enough not to listen to his father.

“I w-want my family back, S-sir...” Daze mumbled despite his painful situation. “I-
I love them... Please, let me have them.”

“Sa tingin mo hindi ko malalaman ang pananamantala mo sa anak ko?!” papa yelled in
anger.

Umiling si Daze kahit na nahihirapan. “I... I didn't. I even distanced myself from
her... but I realized I can't. I can't resist her. H-handa akong panagutan at
pakasalan ang anak niyo. P-please... Let me have them.”

“You!” Akmang susuntukin na sana ni papa ulit si Daze nang humarang si Jarren na
umiiyak.

His small arms were extended sidewards to block papa from hitting his father, Daze.
“Papi, no. I love my daddy. Don't hurt him for me, please.”

I saw how papa's expression softened watching Jarren protecting his father while
crying.

“Jarren...” papa chanted.

My son sniffed. “You know how much I want to be with my daddy. Please, don't hurt
him. I want to be with my daddy and I'll be mad if you're going to punch him
again.”

I tried to struggle from Art's tight grip to no avail. He won't let my arms go.

Kita ko namang pinigilan ni mommy si papa. She held papa's shoulders making him
look at her over his shoulder. Mas lalong lumambot ang expresiyon ni papa sa mukha.

“Hayaan mo muna makapag-usap sila, Edcel. Don't throw punches again if you don't
want to make your grandson mad,” malumanay na saad ni mama.

Papa sighed in defeat and look at Daze who's now busy coughing blood.

“Magtutuos tayo mamaya,” mariing sambit nito bago pumasok sa kwartong inuupa ni
mommy Amelia.

Binitawan naman ako ni Art at sabay kaming tumakbo sa direksiyon ni Daze. Jarren
was crying while holding his father's arms. Kita ko namang ngumiti si Daze.

“Y-you don't have to—”

“You don't have to say anything,” I cut him. “Art, tulungan mo akong dalhin siya sa
kwarto.”

Tumango naman kaagad si Art at nilagay ang kanang braso ni Daze sa balikat niya,
habang ang kaliwang braso naman ni Daze ay iniakbay ko sa'king balikat. I held his
waist to support him while my other hand is holding his that was rested on my
shoulders. Ganoon din ang ginawa ang Art at sabay kaming naglakad patungo sa isang
silid.

Jarren opened the door for us and we carefully walked in to the room. Nagtungo kami
sa kama at maingat na pinahiga si Daze dito. I heard him groaned. Binugbog ba ni
papa si Daze?

“I'll go get the first aid kit,” sambit ni Art na ikinatango ko.

Jarren climbed up the bed and went to his father's side. His cute finger traced
Daze's cuts and his bruised face.

“Bakit ka pa kasi pumunta dito?” pagalit kong tanong.

“I-I want to see you.” Umubo ito.

“Dapat hinintay mo na lang kaming magpunta doon!” I can't help myself on raising my
voice.

“I can't wait...” he muttered and closed his eyes while heaving a deep breath.
“...after knowing the truth. A-after knowing Jarren's our son.”

SenyoritaAnji
Chapter 39
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Chapter 39

“What gift do you want to receive on your birthday?” she asked innocently.

I hummed and caressed her tummy. I want a baby, Diana. “Just you.”

Daze,

I'm sorry if I have to do this. The truth is... It was all lies. I'm in love with
someone and we'll be having a baby soon. I loved him so much. My relationship with
you will take me to nowhere but hell. I'm sorry, Daze. I can't tell it to you
directly because I don't want to feel guilty watching your emotions flashed through
your eyes. Let's end it here. I'm sorry.

Love,
Daina

I crumpled the letter and threw it on the floor. I'm mad. But I don't wanna believe
that letter. I want to convince myself that she's lying.

“Cheers,” Ice interfere with my deep thoughts.

I took a deep breath and raised my glass. I'm with my friends, Isaiah and Lace.

“Man up, dude. Ilang beses mo na bang binasa ang sulat?” Lace said in monotone.

Hindi ako sumagot. Ininom ko ang hawak kong alak hanggang sa maubos. Nilapag ko ang
baso sa mesa at bumuga ng marahas na hangin.

“Just accept the fact that you both aren't meant for each other. Niloloko mo lang
ang sarili mo,” Ice said.

Hindi ko maiwasang matawa ng sarkasmo. She promised she won't leave me. Damn. Was
it a lie, too? I saw the sincerity flashed through her eyes, was it an act?

“Let's end this, Taliah.” I pushed her arms that was wrapped around my waist. “I'm
not in love with you.”

I saw her stunned. “A-ano?”

I look at her with my cold stare. “I never loved you.”

Her hand lifted and it landed on my cheeks. I tilted my head a bit and didn't talk.
Sinubukan ko namang mahalin siya, e. But I just can't. My heart was already filled
with her, and only her.

“Dahil ba 'to sa kapatid mo?! Tang ina, Daze. That whore told you— ouch!”

Hinila ko ang braso nito at hinawakan ng mahigpit. My jaw clenched on its own upon
hearing that word. Gusto ko siyang suntukin ngunit pinipigilan ko ang sarili ko
dahil sa babae siya. Damn, I wanna punch her so bad.

“What did you just say?” mariing tanong ko at mas hinigpitan ang kapit sa kanyang
braso.
She tried struggling from my hold to no avail. Mas hinigpitan ko ang pakakakapit sa
kanyang braso. “D-Daze nasasaktan na ako.”

“Calling her names won't make me love you, Taliah. Call her again with something
unpleasant to my ear, then I'll never think twice of breaking your bones even if
you're a girl.”

I let go of her arms and turned around to leave the room. I have no time on playing
with her anymore. I'm so done.

“Taliah told us you both already broke up. What happened?” mom asked.

Hindi ako sumagot at nagpatuloy na sa pagkain. Uuwi pa ako sa Batangas. Baka

sakaling maisipan niyang umuwi sa kung saan niya tinapos ang lahat.

“Sayang naman ang mga araw na pinagsamahan niyo,” she added.

I took a deep breath and finished my meal. Tumayo agad ako at lumisan sa kusina.
I'm not in the mood to talk to anyone right now.

“Mister Martinez, sorry for disturbing but Mister Jacobs wants to talk to you,” my
secretary informed me.

Binitawan ko ang hawak kong folder at sumandal sa swivel chair. I nodded. “Let him
in.”

“Yes, Mr. Martinez.” She bowed and leave my office.

I massaged my temple and closed my eyes. I heard the door opened and a footsteps
making its way towards my direction, that's when I decided to open my eyes.

Naglapag ito ng folder sa mesa at umupo sa harap kong visitor's chair. “That's the
information about that nurse you've been looking for.”

Inabot ko ito at binuklat. Binasa ko ang mga impormasyon na nakasaad. Finally. I

found you.

“So she's residing in New York now?” I asked.

“Yeah.” Kryzler nodded. “After that fire incident, she quitted being a nurse and
was out of radar for years. Ilang tao pa ang kinausap ko para diyan.”

Tumango dito at bumuntong hininga. “I'll be leaving tonight. You'll come with me.”

“Sure.” He glanced at his wrist watch. “I'll go ahead. Call me when the chopper's
ready.”

I just hummed and picked up my phone to dial my pilot's number. Nagmamadali namang
umalis si Kryzler.

“Hello, Senyor?”

“Ready the plane. We'll be bound to New York tonight.”

I immediately turned off the call and continue reading our business' sale reports.
Damn. Everything is giving me a headache.

“W-what are you doing here?” the woman asked the moment she opened her door.
Tumikhim ako. “You know the reason why we are here.”

She gulped. “U-umalis na kayo...”

Agad sinipa ni Kryzler ang pinto nang akmang pagsasaraduhan kami nito. He showed
her the warrant of arrest that was fake to scare her. Well, he's a highest rank
police officer after all.

“You'll explain and side with us or I'll arrest you for being such a—”

“Okay, okay, I'll explain.”

Nagkatinginan kami ni Kryzler at napangisi. She's dumb. That was a lame excuse
because such mistakes can only be arrested for a certain year. But it works anyway.

Pumasok kami sa loob at pinaupo niya kami sa bakanteng upuan sa kanyang sala. I
wandered my eyes aroud and noticed nobody's home.

“Anong gusto niyong malaman?” she asked.

I rested my elbow on my knees and eyed her without expression. “I already know
everything. Just tell me that you'll confess the truth, and rest assured you'll not
be arrested.”

By that moment I saw her walking towards a plane with her carry on luggage. She's
wearing the red uniform of Emirates Airlines just like what Ice told me. She's
walking faster than usual while glancing her wrist watch.

I took a deep breath to stop myself on approaching her. Nilingon ko si Kryzler at

napansing nakangisi ito sa'kin.

“That flight is bound to UAE,” he said.

I just rolled my eyes on him and proceed to my private jet. All I have to do now is
to wait
patiently. Ipapasundo ko rin ang babaeng 'yun sa oras na umuwi si Diana sa
Pilipinas kasama ang pamilya Ledwidge.

“Are you sure about your plans?” asked Ice.

I took a deep breath and nod. “That's final.”

“What are you going to do?” this time, it was Lace who asked.

I shrugged. “Let everything fall into its places.”

I took a deep breath and drank my martini. “Sit,” I commanded.

It took her time to follow my order and sit at the chair opposite to mine. I badly
wanna hug her, kiss her, and damn feel her. But I can't. I need to act according to
my plan.

“Magkapatid tayo,” she said.

Mas hinigpitan ko pa ang yakap ko sa bewang niya at huminga ng malalim. Her scent
relaxes the hell of me.

“I don't care. You are made for me. Mine alone. You can even ask the stars. They
wrote that you are bound to be mine,” I said.
Because you're mine no matter what you say. You are bound to be mine and mine
alone, love. I already waited for too long, I won't let you go this time.

“Papasukin niyo,” matigas na saad ko. “It might be very important since she came
here in this early morning.”

I did my best to hide my smirk. That's it. My greatest show.

“Stop talking nonsense, Arlyn,” mariing saad ni papa na ikinangisi ko.

“That is not nonsense, Daniel. You know it from the start,” mariing bigkas ng
nurse. “Why didn't you tell them?”

I smirked. Hindi ako nagulat nang sabihin ng nurse na nagkapalitan anak si mommy at
Mrs.
Imperial. Nagulat ako sa katotohanang minahal ni daddy si Amelia.

“That was before, hon. Maniwala ka, mahal na mahal kita.” Dad is on his knees and
begging mom to listen to him.

She stood and turned around. “Masama ng pakiramdam ko. Huwag niyo muna akong
kausapin.”

The moment mom left, dad turned to me. Hindi ko na ito hinayaan pang magsalita at
tumalikod na rin. I'm disappointed to him.

“Mister Martinez,” said my driver. “Ito daw po ang resulta ng DNA test na sinalang
niyo nung nagdaang linggo.”

I nodded my head and went into the swimming pool area to open the envelope.

The moment my hand opened it, my palms are sweating cold already. At nanginig pa
ang kamay ko nang mabasa ang resulta ng DNA test na sinagawa ko nang palihim noong
nagdaang linggo.

Diana's DNA and mine didn't match. But my DNA test with her son was positive. Ibig
sabihin ay nagsinungaling siya.

I can't help not to chuckle to myself. How dumb I was. No one can even get their
ass near my girl, and she'll be pregnant with someone's child? Damn, I didn't know
I was that stupid.

“Daze, saan ka pupunta?” takang tanong ni mama.

I walked towards her and kissed her forehead. “To your grandson.”

Nagmamadali akong lumisan at tumungo sa building na pagmamay-ari ni Ice. He texted

me the exact number of Art's condo that's why it's easier for me to look for it.

Kahit nanginginig ang mga kamay ay nagdoor bell ako. All I expected is that her
father would only throw curse words at me, but no. He punched my face and stomach
again and again.

Hindi na ako nag-abala pang lumaban. If this is the only way to have her, then I am
more than willing to get beaten. I want her back. Desperately. Mas dumagdag sa
pagiging desperado ko ang kaalamang anak ko si Jarren.

“Dapat hinintay mo nalang kaming magpunta doon!” she raised her voice. 
Gusto ko mang matawa sa reaksiyon niya ngunit hindi ko magawa. My stomach hurts so
bad and also my jaw and my lips hurts like hell.

“I can't wait...” I said and closed my eyes. “...after knowing the truth. A-after
knowing Jarren's our son.”

“Daddy,” said by a voice beside me.

Nagdilat ako ng mga mata at nilingon ang anak ko. Damn, ang sarap pakinggan.
“Jarren...”

“Sorry for lying that I am not your son,” he said. “Mommy told me she'll be the one
to tell you.”

Hindi ko maiwasang mapangiti. He was caressing my wounds and cuts which made my
heart feel joy. Ganito ang naramdaman ko nang makita ko si Jarren sa kusina habang
gulat na nakatitig sa nabasag niyang vase.

“Here's the meds.” The young Ledwidge handed the medkit to Vielle.

“Salamat,” I heard my girl said. “Can you bring Jarren with you? May pag-uusapan
lang kami ni Daze.”

Muli kong pinikit ang mga mata ko nang maramdaman ko ang sakit sa'king tiyan. Damn,
her father knows where to hit it right.

“Bakit ka ba kasi nagpunta dito?” she asked as if she's scolding me. “Bakit hindi
mo nalang kami inantay pumunta doon?”

I didn't talk. I just listened to her while she's cleaning my wounds. Damn, I feel
like I'm floating. After many years, I can finally have her. Damn.

“Tignan mo nangyari sa'yo.”

I lifted my hand and held hers. I opened my eyes and look at her. Napangiti ako
nang makita ang luhang nangingilid sa mga mata niya. She the looked away and used
her free hand to wipe her unshed tears.

“Huwag mo nga akong tignan!” she said. “Naiinis ako sa'yo.”

“I told you to wait, didn't I?” I squeezed her hand. “I have plans for us, love. I
have plans waiting for us. You promised me to stay.”

My heart broke. Memories from the day she promised me to stay until the memory of
waking up in the morning with a fucking letter and a ring on the night stand are
still fresh on my mind. The wound didn't heal nor turned into scars.

“I'm sorry,” she murmured.

Napatitig ako sa kanya. She was biting her lower lip while sniffing. “A-actually,
that letter was a lie. Wala akong mapagpipilian, Daze. Buntis ako kay Jarren at
natatakot ako sa sasabihin ng mga tao sa'kin, sa'tin.”

“You should've told me.”

“How?” She wiped her tears. “I can't even tell you I'm falling in love with you so
much. You got me falling on your fucking charm and I can't tell you because you are
my brother and—”
“We're not siblings,” I cut her. I closed my eyes for me not to see her tears.
Damn, I can't stand it. “I-I did everything and used my connections to have you
again.”

“W-what do you mean?”

“I was the one who paid that nurse to spit the truth.” I cough. Fuck, my stomach
hurts. “I-I can't stand it knowing you are going to marry him. He is your twin for
fuck's sake.”

She slapped my stomach making my groan. “Bakit hindi mo sinabi? Gago ka ba?”

I opened my eyes and smile at her. My hand let go of her hand and it landed on her
cheeks. Pinunasan ko ang mga luhang hindi ko gustong tapunan man lang ng tingin.
Mas nanghihina ako kapag nakikita siyang umiiyak.

“I love you,” I mumbled. “So much that I can't think of anybody else.”

“What about your fiancée? Nina?” she asked in a low voice.

I smiled to her and held her hand. Hinalikan ko ang likod ng kanyang palad at
ngumiti. “Leave it to me.”

SenyoritaAnji

Chapter 40
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Chapter 40

I was busy cleaning his wounds when someone entered the room. Nilingon ko ito at
bahagyang nabigla nang si papa ang bumungad sa paningin ko.

"I want to talk to him alone, Vielle. Leave us for a moment," he said.

Pilit akong tumango dito at ngumiti. Muli akong bumaling kay Daze at pinahawakan sa
kanya ang cold compress na dinadampi ko sa kanyang labi at pisngi. I gave him a
tight smile before standing up and leaving them both inside the room.

Nang makalabas ako ng silid ay sinalubong agad ako ni Jarren. Yumuko ako upang
kargahin siya. His cute small arms wrapped around my nape. Agad akong naglakad
patungo sa sofa kung saan naroroon si Mama— Mommy.

"How's Daze?" she asked.

Umupo ako sa tabi nito at kinandong si Jarren. "He's fine now."

"Mommy," Jarren called me. "Are we gonna live in the same house now? Papi accepted
him, right?"

Ngumiti ako dito ng pilit. Hindi rin ako sigurado. Ramdam ko ang galit ni papa kay
Daze kaya't hindi ko alam kung makukumbinsi ba ni Daze si papa. Hindi ako sigurado.

Nabalik ako sa reyalidad nang hawakan ni mommy ang kamay ko at pinisil ito. "What's
with the look on your face?"

I bit my lip and forced myself to smile. "It's nothing, ma."

She smiled at me knowingly as if she's reading the questions and thoughts inside my
head. "Jarren, can you be with your papa Art for a while?"

Tumango ang bata at hinalikan ang pisngi ko bago bumaba sa'king kandungan. He ran
towards a room which I think was Art's. Napabaling naman ako kay mommy nang pisilin
nito ang kamay ko. Hindi pa ako sanay tawagin siyang mommy.

"Now tell what's bothering you," she said.

Humugot ako ng malalim na hininga at tumitig sa mesa. "Naisip ko lang ang tanong ni
Jarren."

"Why? What about it?"

"Hindi po ako sigurado," I look at her and smile. "Paano po kapag hindi pumayag si
papa? Paano po 'pag buo na talaga ang desisyon ni papa na bumalik tayo ng New York?
Paano si Jarren? At saka, paano 'pag negative ang resulta ng DNA test namin ni Art?
Anong gagawin ko?"

"You're overthinking too much," she said and squeezed my hand again. "Anak kita.
I'm sure that the DNA results will be positive. You resembled my younger days. It
would be so impossible if the outcome would be negative."

Huminga ako ng malalim. "What if papa wouldn't agree about me and Daze's
relationship? Ma, alam mong gaano kagalit si papa kay papa Daniel."

"Mahal mo ba si Daze?" she asked all of a sudden.

Natigilan naman ako sa tanong nito. I can feel my body stiff with that question. My
eyes watered as I look at her in the eye. "Yes, ma. Sobra. I love him so much it
hurts."

"Then fight for him." Umayos siya ng upo at hinarap ako. "Kung mahal mo talaga si
Daze, ipaglalaban mo kung ano ang meron kayo. Stop siding with your negative
thoughts. Isipin mo nalang ang magiging resulta kapag ipaglalaban mo ang relasiyon
na meron kayo. Hindi ka lang magiging masaya, mabibigyan mo pa ng kompletong
pamilya si Jarren kagaya ng hinihiling niya. Kung gusto mo talaga 'yung tao,
ipaglaban mo. I can feel his love for you. I can smell the assurance that he will
treat you well and love you even if the world will try to separate you."

Natahimik ako sa sinabi niya at pilit na iniintindi. Ang ipaglaban siya ay madali
lang, ngunit paano ang sasabihin ng mga tao? Magkapatid kami... sa mata nila.

“Huwag mo nang iisipin pa ang sasabihin ng mga tao. They know nothing about what
you feel,” mom added.

Napabuntong hininga ako at ngumiti sa kanya. Medyo gumaan-gaan ang pakiramdam ko sa

mga comforting words ni mama. Mama Danica and me had never been this much close.
Siguro isa rin 'to sa nagpapatunay na siya ang totoo kong ina.

Sabay kaming natigilan nang lumabas si papa mula sa silid na inuukupa ni Daze.
Napatayo ako nang wala sa sarili at tinignan siya. Napakurap-kurap ako nang
mapansin kong kasunod nitong lumabas si Daze.

“Uuwi muna siya sa mansiyon ng mga Martinez,” sambit ni papa na may bahid ng
pinalidad.

Hindi ako halos makapagsalita. Nangangapa ako ng dapat sabihin. Nakatitig lang ako
kay Daze na paika-ikang naglalakad palapit sa'kin at ngumiti.
“I want to go home with Jarren,” he said. “Don't worry, saglit lang kami. Babalik
din kami agad.”

Kahit nag-aalangan, tumango ako dito. I called my son and he immediatey went out of
Art's room. Nagtataka man ay lumapit ito sa pwesto ko. Nginitian naman siya ng ama
niya.

“Would you like to come home with daddy? Babalik rin tayo agad,” he assured.

“We're not going to leave mommy?” tanong ng anak ko.

Umupo ako upang maka-level ko ang tangkad ng bata at ngumiti. “Of course, not.”

“Okay,” Jarren said and went to his father. Humawak ito sa kamay ng kanyang ama at
ngumiti sa'kin.

Umayos naman ako ng tayo at pinakitaan ng ngiti ang mag-ama. Daze nodded and
compose a smile. Hinawakan din niya si Jarren bago lumisan ng condo. I bit my lip
while heaving a deep breath.

“You should rest, Vielle.” Napalingon ako kay papa nang magsalita ito. “It's
already
eight in the evening. Bukas ko pa pababalikin si Daze.”

Tumango ako dito at pilit na ngumiti. I excused myself and went inside the room
where I was cleaning Daze's wound. Ni-lock ko ang pinto at dumiretso sa kama.
Binagsak ko ang aking sarili dito at nanuot sa ilong ko ang amoy ni Daze mula sa
unan na ginamit niya kanina.

Wala sa sarili kong inabot ang unan at niyakap. Damn, his scent is so good. Maybe
this could fill my imagination of me hugging him.

“I'm missing you already,” I murmured.

Mas hinigpitan ko ang pagkakayakap sa unan at inamoy ang pabango niyang nanatiling
nakadikit sa unan. I closed my eyes.

Daze Jaden Martinez... I don't know what should I do but I don't wanna lose you.

--

Nagising ako dahil sa pag-uga ng sino man sa balikat ko. I yawned and rubbed my
eyes. Dinilat ko ang aking mga mata at bumungad sa'kin si Jarren. I smiled
automatically when he kissed my nose.

“Wake up now, mommy. Get up!” he exclaimed and pulled me up.

Napilitan akong bumangon at tumingin sa digital clock na hugis parihaba. It's

already nine in the morning. Ganoon ba kahaba ang tulog ko?

“Take a bath, mom. Tita Keith is waiting for you outside.”

Nangungot ang noo ko dito. “Your tita Keith? Anong ginagawa niya dito?”

“Basta!” he said using my native language making me chuckle.

He looks cute speaking tagalog. “Are you with your dad?”

Umiling ito. “Dad just dropped me here because he has some important things to do.”

Nagtaka ako nang bumaba ito ng kama. “Saan ka pupunta?”

“To tita Keith. She also said we'll be going to mall,” saad nito bago tumakbo
palabas ng silid.

Napailing nalang ako sa pagiging hyper nito. Umalis na ako sa kama at nagtungo agad
sa banyo bitbit ang isang tuwalya. Nandito na lahat ng mga gamit ko dahil
may inutusan si papa na kunin lahat ng pag-aari ko sa mansiyon ng mga Martinez.

I took a quick shower and changed. I chosed to wore a black maong shorts and blue
halter top na itinuck-in ko. I tied my hair into a low ponytail and applied light
make up. Now, I'm off to go.

Lumabas ako ng silid at tama nga ang sinabi ni Jarren, andito nga si Keith. Nang
mapansin ako nito ay agad siyang ngumiti.

“I already asked your parents that we'll go out. Let's go?” bungad nito. “And oh,
Jarren will stay here. So come on!”

Hindi pa ako nakapagsalita nang bigla na niya akong hininga palabas ng condo. Maybe
I should thank myself for wearing a gucci high sneakers, hindi ako matatapilok.

“Ang aga pa para mag-shopping, Keith. Wala pa akong kain,” Iritadong sambit ko.

We entered the elevator and she immediately pressed the groundfloor button. Hinarap
ako nito na nakapameywang. “Ngayon lang ako pinalaya ni Leslie kaya maaga akong
nandito.”

“Leslie?” My forehead knotted.

She rolled her eyes and crossed her arms along her chest. “My step-father.”

Tumango ako dito. Ngayon ko lang din napansin ang suot nito. She's wearing a turtle
neck pink longsleeves and a tattered faded blue pants, matching her blue ankle
strap pumps. She's busy fanning herself with her cute hand-fan. At dahil nga sa
paglilipad ng kanyang nakalugay na buhok, napansin ko ang isang medyo mapulang kiss
mark na hindi natatabunan ng turtle neck tops niya. A kiss mark located at the back
of her ears.

Napangisi ako. “Where did you get that?”

Natigilan ito at nilingon ako na may pagtataka. “Get what?”

“That.” Nginuso ko ang tattoo niya sa likod ng kanyang tenga. “Who did that?”

Napahawak siya dito at nag-iwas ng tingin. “Uhm...”

Sasagot pa sana siya nang bumukas na ang pinto ng elevator. Nauna itong lumabas na
ikinangisi ko ng todo.

Hmm, sino kaya?

--

“Pagod na'ko sa paglalakad, Keith,” reklamo ko.

When says shopping, it's really shopping! As in nilibot na namin ang buong mall.
Nagpa-salon kami, bumili rin siya ng isang pares ng puting stiletto na ngayon ay
suot ko, at ngayon nandito kami sa isang botika at kasalukuyan siyang namimili ng
damit.

“Kanina ka pa nagrereklamo, e last destination na natin 'to," she said. Ni-hindi

man lang ako nito nilingon.

Napabuga ako ng hangin. “Kung sana hindi mo pinasuot sa'kin 'tong heels na binili
mo, edi sana wala kang naririnig na reklamo. At saka, saan ba kasi tayo pupunta?
Bakit damay ako?”

“I told you we'll attend a wedding anniversarry. That's business matter though,
ngunit ayokong kasama ang sekretarya ko. Puro meeting ang bunganga nu'n,” she
replied. May hinugot siyang isang puting dress na sa tingin ko ay hanggang ibabaw
ng tuhod ang haba. “Maganda ba 'to?”

Umiling ako dito. “That looks so cheap.”

“Bobo ka, walang cheap sa store na 'to, 'no.” Pinanliitan ako nito ng mga mata.
“Pumili ka ng masusuot mo dali!”

Napairap ako dito at nagsimulang maghalungkat. I'm actually fine walking on

stiletto since I'm a flight crew, but she kept dragging me. Paano na lang 'pag
natalisod ako?

Nakuha ng pansin ko ang isang simpleng spaghetti strap dress na hanggang tuhod ang
haba.
Wala itong kung ano-anong disenyo ngunit nakuha agad nito ang atensiyon ko. Kinuha
ko ito at agad naman akong nilapitan ni Keith.

“Iyan ang gusto mo?” she asked.

Tumango ako dito. “Yeah.”

“Walang design 'yan, e. Teka hahanap ako ng iba.”

Hinawakan ko ang kanyang braso at pinakita ang dress. “Ito na.”

“Ow-kay?” Kahit alam kong nagtataka siya ay napilitan itong pumayag. “Isukat mo
'yan, malapit na tayo ma-late.”

Hindi ko maiwasang mapairap at nagtungo sa fitting room na iminuwestra ng sales

lady. Pumasok ako sa maliit na espasyo ng fitting room at hinubad ang aking damit.
Sinuot ko agad ang dress at hindi naman ako mahirapan dahil spaghetti strap naman
'to. Inayos ko rin ang aking buhok na pina-salon ni Keith kanina. Libre niya, e
kaya pumayag ako.

“Perfect!” She clapped her hands like an idiot. “Tara na!”

“Teka, hindi ko pa nabayaran 'to.”

“I already took care of the bills. Dali!” She continue dragging me.

Mabuti nalang at bitbit ko ang hinubad kong tops kanina dahil paniguradong maiiwan
ko 'to doon.

Nang makalabas kami ng mall ay wala na akong sinag ng araw na nakikita kundi ang
pagkinang na lang ng bituin sa langit.
We entered her car and she immediately maneuvered out of the place. Napatingin ako
sa pambisig kong relo at napagtantong alas-siete na pala ng gabi. Ganon kami
katagal sa loob ng Rial Mall.

“Bakit ba kasi ayaw mong pumunta mag-isa?” I asked.

She glanced at me. “Duh, wala akong kachismis kung wala akong kasama.”

Napailing nalang ako at tinikom na ang aking bibig. The car stopped in front of a
five star hotel which I think is the venue of the wedding anniversarry we're going
to attend.

Nauna siyang lumabas ng sasakyan kaya sumunod na ako. Bahagya pang hinangin ang
palda ng dress ko na agad kong hinawakan. We started walking towards the hotel and
the security guard greeted us. Dumiretso kami sa nakabukas na elevator at pumasok
dito.

Bahagya akong nagulat nang pindutin nito ang top floor. Tinignan ko ito ng
nakakunot-noo. “Bakit top floor? Nasa rooftop ang venue?”

She busy typing on her phone as she nodded. “Yeah. They want fresh air kasi.”

Tumango ako at hindi na nagsalita pa. I patiently waited for the door to oen while
Keith is busy typing on her phone. I glanced at my wrist watch to check the time.
Baka hinahanap na ako ni Jarren.

Bumukas ang pinto at sumalubong sa'min ang malawak at tahimik na rooftop. Walang
kung ano-anong desinyo na ipinagtaka ko. Lumabas kami ng elevator at naglakad dahil
baka nasa kabilang pwesto ang mga tao ngunit wala din.

“Sigurado ka bang dito ang venue? Bakit walang tao?” I asked her.

Tumango lamang siya at biglang humawak sa kanyang puson. “Teka, naiihi ako. Diyan
ka lang.”

“Bilisan mo,” I told her.

She nodded again and immediately went back inside the elevator habang ako ay
naglakad patungo sa handrail. Tinanaw ko ang senaryo mula sa baba.

It took me a moment of comfortable silence before I thought of Keith. Napatingin

ako sa'king relo at napagtantong halos magsa-sampung minuto na siyang wala.

Maglalakad na sana ako pabalik ng elevator nang makarinig ako ng putok ng

fireworks. Nilingon ko ang malawak na kalangitan at napangiti sa ganda ng
fireworks. Muli akong naglakad pabalik sa pwesto ko kanina at pinanood ang pagputok
ng mga fireworks sa kalangitan.

Moments later, my forehead knotted when I suddenly read the letter ‘W’ on the
first explode. Nasundan ito ng ‘I’ at dalawang ‘L’ na nanatili sa langit ng halos
dalawang minuto bago nabura.

“Will,” I mumbled.

Three fireworks lighted the sky in a form of ‘You’. Few seconds passed and a two
choppers came into the view bringing a wide and large tarpaulin imprinted with
‘Marry’.

Kumabog ang puso ko sa nabasa. My hands are sweating cold as another bunch of
fireworks lighted the sky. Napalingon ako sa'king likod nang makarinig ako ng
tikhim.

My mouth gaped as my eyes landed on Daze that was kneeling on the floor. Naglibot
ako ng paningin at ngayon ko lang napansin na nandito pala sila mommy at papa edcel
kasama si Jarren, Art, at Keith na nakangisi.

“Diana.” He slowly opened the box, revealing an oval green-blue sapphire ring. “I
know you're thinking that things happened so fast. But I'm doing this because I
don't wanna lose you again. I want to proclaim you as mine, so please, marry me.”

My eyes teared, my hands were sweating cold, and my knees trembled. I slowly nodded
my head as I whispered, “Yes.

“Yes, Daze. I'll marry you.”

SenyoritaAnji

Epilogue
8.89K
375
74
Epilogue

"Just what the fuck?" Kiyo murmured. "Bakit ba ayaw mo akong palapitin kay Vielle,
ha? Bestfriend niya ako!"

"Fiancé niya ako. Manahimik ka." I shot him deadly glares.

"Kaka-propose mo lang last month, why so rush?" asked Art.

Binitawan ko ang hawak kong folder at tinignan sila isa-isa. We're complete. Art
was just added. We are planning for a surprise wedding ceremony onboard.

"Takot maagawan." Ngumisi si Ice na ikinairap ko.

"Shut up, you all," Iritadong saad ko. "Ice, I need your connection in Emirates
Airline for this."

"What's your plan?" he asked.

I tapped my fingers on the table. "I want a wedding during flight."

"You mean, sa loob kayo ng eroplano ikakasal? Hindi ba't masyadong mahirap 'yun?"
Lace asked.

"It's not. I'll pay the seats in first class," I replied. "And I want Alcantara to
be the captain."

Tumango naman si Kiyo. "Ako na bahala sa pari."

"I'll help with the invitation and preparation of reception venue," Art
volunteered. "But when will be the wedding?"

"Overmorrow."

"What?!" they almost asked in unision.

"That's too fast!" angal ni Kiyo.

"Why are you rushing, man?" Art asked.

Napatingin ako kay Lace at Ice kung may sasabihin ba sila ngunit wala silang
sinabi. They just shrugged and Ice smiled at me knowingly.

"I'll let my girl find her a gown," Ice said.

Ngumiti ako dito ng tipid at nagpasalamat. Lace volunteered to use his private jet
to New York para makasabay namin sa flight si Diana. She'll be having a flight
bound to Philippines these next days. Kung pwede lang rentahan ang flight niya,
gagawin ko.

They helped me planned everything. Maybe I should thank God for giving me
billionaire friends. My plan would never fail. Besides, money are just a piece of
cake for them. We can close a deal worth billions in just five minutes.

"Hey, we'll go to the reception place," sambit ni Art na sinagot ko ng tango.

"May meeting pa kami," Lace said.

"Goodluck, man."

Tumayo na ako at sinara ang nakabuklat na folder na hawak-hawak ko kanina. I

reached for my suit on the rock and wore it. Inayos ko muna ang suot kong necktie
bago sinundan si Art sa labas.

"You ain't a Filipino, but you volunteered for the venue," I said.

"I searched on the internet and viewed their costumer's review. Most are positive
that's why I immediately set-up a meeting."

Tumango ako. I checked my wrist watch for the time before pushing the ground floor
button of the elevator. Inayos ko ang suot kong suit at paminsang-minsang tumingin
sa relo.

Nang bumukas ang pinto ay nagmamadali kaming lumabas. I immediately went inside my
car. I let Art lead the way before maneuvering out of the parking lot.

Habang nagmamaneho, may biglang tumawag sa phone ko. I swiped it open and it was
Jarren. Agad ko itong sinagot. "Yes, baby?"

"I'm not a baby anymore," he replied making me chuckle. "By the way, can you buy me
pancake?"

Napangiti ako dito. "How many pancakes do you want?"

"Just make it ten, dad," he said before the line beeped.

Napailing nalang ako. That kid. I can't blame his behavior since got that from me.
Which I think is a big problem. I'll be dealing a kid whose attitude is the same as
mine. Damn.

Art parked the car on the available space of parking lot. Pumarke din ako sa katabi
ng kanyang sasakyan bago bumaba. He tilted his head inside the café which I just
replied with a nod.

Nang makapasok kami ay namataan namin ang dalawang babaeng nasa sulok habang
nagbubulat sa hawak niyang folder. The other girl lifted her gaze at us before
poking the girl who's busy reading something.

Naglakad palapit doon si Art kaya sumunod na ako. This café is quite huge.

"Are you Miss Doliguez? The designer?" Art asked.

Agad namang tumayo ang babaeng nagbubuklat ng folder at tinignan kami. She smiled
shyly and extended her hands.

"I'm Peony Doliguez, the wedding coordinator," she introduced.

Art accepted her hand. "I'm Art Ledwidge."

Hindi na ako nag-abala pang tanggapin ang kamay nila at agad na umupo. Nagpakilala
naman ang isang babae na wedding designer, well I don't know her name.

"As you can see, this job is in rush," may pag-aalangang saad ni Art.

"What do you mean, sir?" the wedding coordinator asked.

Tumingin sa'kin si Art kaya napabuntong-hininga ako. "I want for the wedding
reception to be done in just two days. No worries, I'll triple my payment."

I saw them stilled and looked at each other. The wedding coordinator replied, "B-
but it would take us-"

"Just make everything simple," I cut her. "Elegant but simple. Can you give us
that?"

"W-we'll try, sir."

Nangunot ang noo ko. "You'll try? If you can't accomplish that task, then we'll
look for another designer."

Agad na napatayo ang wedding coordinator. "We can. But the payment would be tripled
as what you've said."

"Then it's a deal." I extended my hands.

I saw the wedding designer took a deep breath before accepting my hands. Ngumiti
ako ng tipid dito at bahagyang tinapik si Art.

"You'll help them plan. I'll be leaving."

Hindi ko na siya inantay pang sumagot at agad na tumayo. Malalaki ang mga hakbang
kong umalis ng café at dumiretso sa'king sasakyan.

Dumaan muna ako sa nagbebenta ng pancake bago nagtungo sa condo ni Art. Doon
nanatili ang anak ko dahil ayaw ni tito Edcel na ilapit ang bata sa mga magulang
ko.

Bigla akong napaisip kay mama at papa na hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin nag-uusap.
I must probably lying if I say that I'm not mad at him. I'm damn mad.

"Daddy!"

Sinalubong ako ni Jarren ng mahigpit na yakap at agad na kinuha ang dala kong
pancake. He kissed my cheeks and murmured 'thank you' before going back to the
couch and continue watching movie.
Napailing ako dito. Mula sa kwarto ay lumabas si Tito at sinenyasan ako na lumapit.
Naglakad siya patungo sa terrece na agad ko namang sinundan.

"So you're planning on marrying her the day after tomorrow?" he asked.

Napalunok ako at tumango. "Yes, tito."

He took a deep breath and look at the wide and clear sky. Magdadapit-hapon na kaya
hindi na masakit sa balat ang init.

"Please, take care of my daughter," he said. "Sa pitong taon na nanatili sa'min si
Vielle, masasabi kong siya ang batang hindi dapat sinasaktan. She's kind and she
always consider others before herself. That made us want to keep her." He faced me.
"And now, you'll be marrying my only daughter, take care of her. Or else I'm going
to break your bones into pieces."

Tumango ako dito at tipid na ngumiti. "Opo, tito."

"We can't attend your wedding. Amelia wants to rest in New York." Nginitian ako
nito. "Dad. Start calling me dad from now on."

--
DIANA VIELLE's

Napahilot ako sa aking sintido at bumuntong hininga. Halos sunod-sunod ang naging
flight ko nitong nakaraang linggo, at ngayon ay patungo kami ng Pilipinas. But
sadly, wala pa rin akong pahinga. After Philippines, we'll bound to Mexico then
Saudi. Damn, masakit na ang katawan ko.

"Miss Martinez," our head cabin crew called my attention. "You'll be assigned on
business class."

Napatango ako dito at nagmadali kaming naglakad papuntang eroplano. Dumiretso

kaagad ako
sa business class at nag-check sa mga upuan baka sakaling may kalat pa, although
people who are in business class are quite cleanliness.

"You looked so drained," puna sa'kin ng isang kasamahan ko.

I smiled at her. "Yeah,"

"Your ring looks so fabulous. Where did you bought that?" she asked, glancing at
the ring on my ring-finger.

"My fiancé bought this," I replied.

Napasinghap naman ito. "So you're engaged already?"

Tumango ako dito. "Yeah, I am."

Hinarap ako nito nang nakasimangot. "Crews assigned in first class are so damn
lucky."

"Why?"

"Someone paid all of the chairs on first class. That person must be very rich to
afford that," she said.
Napatuwid kami ng tayo nang dumaan sa gilid namin si Captain Alcantara na
nakakunot-noo at nilampasan kami. Nagkatinginan kami at napahinga ng malalim.

The passengers start boarding making us all busy. Iniiwasan kong humikab habang
kinakausap ang mga pasahero. Nang inanunsiyo na nilang magti-take off na, agad
akong umupo. Pasimple akong humikab habang inaantay ianunsiyo na pwede na kaming
makalakad-lakad sa loob ng eroplano.

Nang makarating na kami sa himpapawid ay agad kaming nagsitayuan. We assisted some

passengers in need of help. May iilang hindi nagpapadistorbo dahil may ginagawa.
Businessmen.

Nagulat ako nang may kumalabit sa balikat ko. Nilingon ko ito na may pagtataka.
"What is it?"

"The head summoned you in the crew rest compartment," she said.

Nangunot ang noo ko dito. "Why?"

"I don't know either," she shrugged.

Tumango nalang ako at nagtungo sa head naming pinapatawag ako bigla. Weird, though.

"Miss Martinez," she said. "I mean, Miss Ledwidge. Kindly change your clothes with
this one."

She handed me a long mermaid gown in a color of white. Nagtataka ko itong tinignan.
"Why would I wear this? I'm still on duty."

"Just wear that. Make yourself presentable. I'll be waiting for you at the entrance
of the first class."

Napasimangot ako nang agad itong bumaba na hindi man lang ako inantay makasagot.

Wala akong ibang nagawa kundi ang bumuntong hininga at nagpalit nalang ng gown na
binigay niya. Hindi ko namang maiwasan na matawa. Seriously? Yes, I'll be walking
on an aisle, but with my uniform, not this wedding gown. Para na akong ikakasal
nito.

I take my time making myself look good and not haggard. Maganda naman ang gown.
Kitang kita ang likod ko dahil backless siya at may mga maliliit na diyamante sa
corset na mas nagpaganda sa suot kong dress.

Pinulot ko ang hem ng dress at naglakad pababa. Medyo nahirapan pa ako dahil nga
mahaba ang gown na suot ko.

"Hey, why are you wearing that?" asked the girl. Well, I don't know her name.

I shrugged. "Head told me to wear this."

Tumango naman ang isang cabin crew. Nagpaalam ako sa kanila na pupunta ako sa first
class dahil nandoon naghihintay ang head namin.

Nakakahiya man, naglakad ako sa loob ng eroplano patungong first class. Natagpuan
ko kaagad ang head namin na nag-aantay sa'kin at may hawak na belo.

I feel like I'm in cloud nine. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit nakakaramdam pa rin
ako ng paru-paro sa'king tiyan kahit hindi na ako teenager.
"I do," I replied.

Putang ina, kahit 'wag na ako tanungin kung tatanggapin ko ba si Daze. Pwede namang
magtanan kami, e.

Parang lutang ako sa buong pangyayari. Damn, this is my wedding! Onboard! Something
I never thought could happen.

We exchanged vows, though mine are as short as Dora's bangs. Matapos ay sinuot niya
sa'kin ang singsing. Tuluyan nang tumulo ang luha ko habang sinusuot ko ang
singsing sa daliri niya.

"I pronounce you husband and wife, you may now kiss your bride."

He lifted my belo and he welcomed me with a warm smile. His thumb touched my cheeks
to wipe my tears before pulling me into a kiss. Kasabay nu'n ang hiyawan ng mga
taong nandito.

He pulled away and wrapped his arms around me. Kasal na ako. Totoo ba 'to? This
isn't a product of my imagination, right?

Niyakap niya ako at bumulong, "Ngayon ganap ka ng Martinez. Huwag mo na akong iwan
ulit, ah."

Napahikbi ako sa sinabi nito at tumango. "H-hindi na."

"Oh god." He pulled away from our hug and kissed my lips without any warning. "I
love you so much."

Napangiti ako dito sa kabila ng pagpatak ng mga luha ko. Niyakap ko ito at
bumulong.

"Mahal din kita, Daze. Mahal na mahal."

THE END

Author's Note
6.4K
194
30
Thank you so much for patiently waiting for this story to be done. I'm happy to
finish another story this yearm, I'm looking forward I could finish more and write
more.

Maraming-maraming salamat po. Hanggang sa muli, senyoras❣️

More of my stories? Just visit my timeline!

Special Chapter
2.33K
157
16
Special Chapter

“Happy birthday!” we greeted Jarren who's face is expressionless.

He rolled his eyes and blow his cake. “Mommy, I told you I just want a credit
card.”
Nanlaki ang mga mata ko at magsasalita na sana nang may iabot si Daze na flat
retangular shape na nakabalot sa isang gift wrapper. “Happy birthday, Jarren.”

Mabilis na tinanggap ng bata ang inabot ng kanyang ama at binalatan ito. My eyes
widen even more after seeing his gift.

“Thank you, daddy! You're the best!” he beamed at his father.

Bumaling ako kay Daze at sinamaan siya ng tingin. “Daze! You're spoiling him! Hindi
pa siya pwedeng humawak ng credit card. For suck's sake, he's just seven!”

Ngumiti lang ito at yumuko para halikan ako. “Let him, baby. He's a Martinez after
all.”

“Kuripot ka, mommy.” Jarren stuck his tongue out at me and ran to my father's
direction.

Akmang hahabulin ko ito para sana pingutin nang hapitin ni Daze ang bewang ko at
siniksik ang mukha sa leeg ko.

“Daze, you're spoiling him too much. Baka masanay 'yan,” naiinis na saad ko.

He started planting small kisses on my neck. “I'm spoiling him because I have
money.”

“Still!” Nilayo ko ang mukha niyang nakabaon sa leeg ko. “Hindi tamang ini-spoil
ang bata. He should know his limitations.”

He just smiled and leaned in to capture my lips. Ang inis ko kanina ay biglang
nalusaw sa halik niya. I felt him wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me
towards his body.

Today is Jarren's birthday and we're celebrating it here in Boracay. Tanging si

mama Amelia lang ang nandito dahil hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin sila nagkakausap
ni mama Danica.

“You're spacing out again,” nakasimangot na sambit ni Daze. “Stop overthinking in

the middle of our kiss, woman.”

Napangiti ako dito at muli siyang sinunggaban ng halik. Kami-kami lang namang
pamilya ang laman ng Monte's Resort ngayon dahil talagang nirentahan ni Daze ang
buong lugar.

“Love,” he murmured. “Malaki na si Jarren.”

Natigilan ako sa paghalik ng panga niya sa narinig. I look up at him and catch him
looking at me with wickedness along his eyes.

“Alam ko,” I replied.

I saw how his eyes brightened in delight. “I suggest we should make a new one. You
know...”

Pinanliitan ko ito ng tingin. He was smiling at me sheepishly. Humigpit ang

pagkakahapit niya sa bewang ko. He leaned to kiss my forehead which made me close
my eyes.

I felt nothing but contentment and happiness. Masaya ako na finally, hindi ko na
kailangan kabahan baka may biglang pumasok sa kwarto at mahuli kami, o 'di kaya ay
patagong nagseselos dahil sa kapatid niya lang ako at wala akong karapatan.

But look at us today. We may faced different critisms from the people but heed them
no attention. May nag-trending pa nga na hashtag dati with our picture together
which is hashtag incest.

Bored people with boring mindset.

“Hey...” Umayos ako ng tayo at tinignan ang dalawang taong bumaba sa isang
sasakyan. “Is that mama Danica?”

Nang makakumpirma kong sila nga, para akong batang tumakbo sa deriksiyon nila at
dinambahan ng yakap si papa. I am a papa's girl kasi ini-spoiled niya ako sa mga
bagay-bagay na binabawalan ako ni mama. But now, I finally realized on why she
doesn't want to spoil me with anything.

“Glad you came, papa!” I exclaimed. Bumaling ako kay mama na kakalayo lamang sa
yakapan nila ni Daze.

Nilapitan ko ito at niyakap. I missed her. Sabihin na nating hindi siya ang tunay
na ina ko pero nang lumisan ako panandalian ng Pilipinas at nanirahan ng isang
buwan sa New York ay parang kulang. I may survived my seven years without coming
back, but the one month feels like decade.

Siguro kaya nakaramdam ako ng pagkukulang nang malayo ako kay mama ay dahil sa alam
kong hindi maayos ang sitwasyon naming lahat.

“We came here for our grandson's birthday,” nakangiting usal ni mama Danica at
bumaling sa pwesto nila mama Amelia kung saan naroroon si Jarren.

“Jarren, come over.” I motioned my son to come towards us.

Mabilis namang naglakad patungo dito si Jarren at sinalubong naman siya ni mama ng
yakap.

“Happy birthday, big boy. This is our gift.” Inabot ni papa ang isang box na
nakabalot sa gift wrapper.

Dala siguro ng excitement kaya agad na binuksan ng bata ang box. Umawang ang labi
ko nang kunin ni Jarren ang isang susi. Yes, it's a car key!

“Granddaddy, where's the car?” takang tanong ng bata.

Akmang aangal na sana ako nang niyakap ako ni Daze mula sa 'king likuran at
pinatong ang kanyang chin sa 'king balikat.

Papa Daniel pointed a truck and there we saw the newest hybrid car of bugatti.
Sumama ang timpla ng mukha ko lalo na nang huminto ang truck at dahan-dahang bumaba
ang sasakyan.

“Thank you, granddaddy! I love you.” Jarren kissed his grandfather's cheeks and ran
to the car's direction.

“Papa,” anas ko. “That car is too much. Pwede namang laruang pambata ang iregalo
mo, e. He's just a seven year old boy.”

Rinig ko ang pagtawa ng mahina ni Daze sa tabi ko nang kumindat si papa sa

deriksiyon namin. Palihim kong siniko si Daze.
“Aw,” he muttered. “You're becoming a sadist, love... shall I make you kneel?”
bulong nito sa mga huling salita.

Napairap ako at napansin ang paglapit nila mama Amelia sa pwesto namin. My hand
reach to touch Daze's arms that was wrapped around my waist.

“Danica, glad you arrived,” malumanay na saad ni mama at nagulat ako nang bumeso
ito.

Papa Edcel tapped papa Daniel's back and showed him a tight smile before going back
to my mother's side.

“We came for our grandson's birthday,” saad ni mama Danica. “And also, for your
forgiveness.”

Nagkatinginan ang mga magulang ko bago sumagot si mama Amelia. “We already forgave
you two, Danica.”

“We want to formally apologize,” papa Daniel said. “I know what I did back then was
unforgivable. Mahal ko na ang asawa ko ngayon kaya't para sa kanya, kahit nahihiya
ako ay hihingi ako ng paumanhin sa inyo.”

My eyes teared up upon hearing papa. Masaya ako. Daze tightened his hug and kissed
my cheeks.

“You're forgiven,” wika ni papa Edcel. “Thank you for saving my daughter.”

“Bakit kayo nag-iiyakan? Binudol din ba kayo ni Jarren?”

Napatingin kaming lahat sa kambal kong palaging panira ng moment.

“Hindi,” I replied. “Nakakaiyak ka kasi, e. Ang pangit mo.”

“Aba't...” Pinanlakihan ako nito ng mata. “Kung pangit ako, pangit ka rin. Kambal
tayo, e.”

Napasimangot ako dito at sabay naman silang natawa sa inakto naming dalawa.
Sumandal pa ako kay Daze at humikab.

“Inaantok ka na?” my husband whispered softly.

I bit my lip. Damn, calling him my husband still felt surreal. “Yeah. Wala akong
tulog sa pagtulong sa pagluto kagabi.”

“I told you we should leave it to the cook.”

Umiling ako. “Ayoko. I want him to see our efforts being his parents so that when
he grew older, he'll realized that not all can be bought with money.”

--

“Tired?” he asked the moment he entered our room.

I nodded my head and smiled while I'm busy massaging my shoulders. Lumapit naman
siya sa 'kin at umupo sa likuran ko.

Inalis niya ang kamay kong minamasahe ang balikat ko at siya mismo ang nagmasahe
nito. Tinipon ko lahat ng aking buhok sa kaliwang balikat.
Today was exhausting. Masaya rin ako na magkaayos na ang mga magulang namin ni Daze
at wala ng alitan.

“I'm happy,” I said. “Hindi ko aakalain na sa ganito ang landas natin.”

He chuckled. “I told you, you are bound to be mine. I got everything under control,
love.”

Natatawa akong nilingon siya. Sinalubong naman ako ng kanyang labi na ikinangiti
ko. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.” He smiled. Napasinghap ako nang hawakan nito ang bewang ko at
inihiga ako sa kama. Mabilis niya akong kinubabawan. “I've been dreaming for this
day to happen.”

I caressed his face and slapped him slightly. “You manipulative jerk.”

Tumawa ito at hinalikan ang tungki ng ilong ko. “Huwag mo na akong iwan ulit.”

Tumitig ako sa mga mata nito. I smiled and lifted my head to kiss the tip of his
nose. “Hindi na.”

Wala itong inaksayang pagkakataon at siniil ako ng malalim na halik. I closed my

eyes and my hand start unbuttoning his polo. Tinulungan niya naman akong mahubad
ang damit niya at ganon din siya sa 'kin.

“Ohh...”

Bumaba ang halik nito sa panga at leeg ko. He kissed, sucked, and bit a skin on my
neck that's adding fuel to my burning desire.

He unhooked my brassiere from the front and welcomed my nipples with his warm
mouth. Napaliyad naman ako nang kapahin ng kamay niya ang pagkababae ko.

“Love,” he murmured and sucked my earlobe. “Sundan na natin si Jarren.”

Namula ang aking pisngi at kinagat ang aking sariling labi. “Sige. Pero ikaw na
umire ha? Magiging kamukha mo rin naman, e.”

He chuckled. “I can't. But this time, I'll be with you and we'll watch our baby
grow together. You don't know how envious I was knowing I wasn't there when my son
took his first step, heard his first word and laugh. Gusto ko na this time,
masaksihan ko na. I want to us to watch our children grow. I want that.”

My eyes teared and my heart leaped in both happiness and guilt. Guilt kasi
pinagkait ko sa kanya ang mga panahong sana ay naging ama siya ni Jarren.

“Sorry,” I muttered. “Kung hindi lang siguro—”

“Hush...” he cut me by sealing my lips with his. “It's all in the past now. Kaya
kung gusto mong bumawi... sundan na natin si Jarren.”

Natatawa akong tumango dito at pinalibot ang aking braso sa leeg niya. I kissed his
lips that he immediately responded.

He bit my lower lip, seeking for entrance. I opened my mouth to let him in and my
tongue welcomed his. Napaungol naman ako nang sipsipin niya ang dila ko.

His lips travelled down my jaw. He licked the length of my neck in an up and down
pace as his hands start fondling my bossom. He used his knee to spread my legs
wider and settled himself in between.

Hinawakan niya ang dalawang pulso ko at piniid sa ibabaw ng ulo ko. His lips went
down my breast and inserted my already taut nipple inside his mouth.

“God,” I moaned.

His other hand touched my clothed and already wet mound. My legs moved on their own
as they spread wider to give his hand more access.

“Fuck, my wife. You're so beautiful.”

Binitawan niya ang pulso ko at huli na nang ma-realized kong mabilis niyang hinubad
ang suot kong shorts. He immediately slid his hand on my undies and cupped my
pússy.

“You're wet, love. I love this.”

Pinaglalaruan ng daliri nito ang clit ko na mas lalong nagpaliyab ng pagnanasa ko.
Parang nahihibang akong umungol at halos maitirik ang aking mga mata. His fingers
are good in playing with my clit, damn it.

“Love,” he called and I hummed in answer. “Mahal kita.”

“Mahal din kita— ahh...” Tuluyan nang napaliyad ang katawan ko nang biglaan niyang
pinasok ang kanyang isang daliri sa loob ko. “Add another one please— ohh...”

His thumb start making circles on my clitorial hood while his two digits keep
thrusting inside my core. Hindi ko naman maiwasang hawakan ang kamay nitong umuulos
sa loob ko.

“Daze, ohh... That's it love, hook it like that— ahh...”

My body's starting to convulse and I feel something is building inside me. My hips
start accepting the every thrust of his fingers.

“I'm cumming,” I moaned.

“Come, love.” He sucked my lower lip and the pace of his fingers became faster.
“Come for me. Let me taste your juices again and again.”

“Ahh...shit... Ayan na...” I bit my lips. Umangat ang balakang ko at tuluyan nang
lumabas ang katas na kanina ko pa nararamdaman.

Napasinghap ako nang bigla siyang gumalaw at ang sunod ko na lang nalaman ay
dinidilaan na niya ang kaselanan ko.

“Ohh...” My toes curled. “Love...”

Sabay kaming natigilan nang makarinig kami ng katok sa labas.

“Mommy!” Jarren called.

Nagkatinginan kami ni Daze. Pilyo nitong nilabas ang kanyang dila at pinaghiwalay
ang labi ng kaselanan ko.

I saw him licked and sucked my clit like our son wasn't outside.
“Mommy!”

Mabilis kong tinulak ang ulo ni Daze. Agad kong inabot ang hinubad kong bra at
damit kanina at muling sinuot. Kita ko naman si Daze na nakahubad-barong naglakad
patungong pinto para pagbuksan ang anak niya.

“Daddy, can I sleep here? My room's air condition is not working,” rinig kong wika
ni Jarren.

“Sure.”

Umayos naman ako ng upo sa kama at pinahiran ang pawis ko kanina. I showed my son
my tight smile.

“Mommy,” my son chanted and climbed up our bed. Lumapit ito sa 'kin at tumabi ng
higa. “I'll sleep here.”

Nginitian ko ito at hinalikan ang noo. “Of course, you can, baby boy.”

Sa sinabi ko. Tumalikod ito ng higa sa akin at humarap sa pwesto ni Daze.

Napapagitnaan siya namin kaya napangisi ako nang makita kung paano nalukot ang
hitsura niya.

“Good night, mom, dad.”

Humiga na lang din ako at pinikit ang aking mga mata. I faced my son's direction
and forced myself to sleep.

But fuck, I can feel my womanhood pulsating and I badly need more than his fingers.
Namamasa pa rin ang kaselanan ko at kahit nakaraos na ay masakit pa rin ang puson
ko.

Someone licked my nape from behind. “Shall we continue?” he whispered.

Nagdilat ako ng mata at sinipat ang pwesto ng anak kong nakapikit ang mga mata at
bahagyang nakaparte ang labi.

“Here?” I whispered back.

He shook his head. “We can have the bathroom.”

Napangisi ako sa sinabi nito at muling sumulyap sa pwesto ni Jarren bago bumangon
at nagmamadaling tumungo sa banyo.

Damn, doing quickies is fun!