Sandejas Legacy #1: August Lies

Note: For better reading experience, I suggest you guys should read Sandejas Sibling
Series and Lost Island Series before this para 'di kayo malito sa names, in case, you
haven't read it pa. Pero even without reading it maiintindihan naman ang flow ng story
na 'to, that's only if you like and for more thrill.

---

Sandejas Legacy #1:

Sandejas Legacy continues...

"Lies are lies, no matter how good the reason behind it is."

Scira Rosalie Sandejas Valderama, one of the most sought and famous Architect of her
generation. Beautiful, smart, creative and perfectionist.

Everyone looks up to her because she got everything...almost everything. Siguro nga ay
nasa kanya na ang lahat kung hindi lang palpak ang buhay pag-ibig n'ya.

One man to another, she tried looking for love yet love isn't really showing itself to her
but not until she met Warren Miranda. He's gentleman, proud and handsome.

She thought...maybe he is the one. Pero paano kung ang akala n'yang potential future
jowa ay maging future kumare n'ya pala?
The two met in an unexpected way, made a one of a kind friendship but what if she
found out the he lied?

Disclaimer:

THIS IS A FILIPINO LANGUAGE STORY.

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

PLAGIARISM is a crime √

All rights reserved 2020

©heartlessnostalgia (Chennie Ann Cerro)

Simula

"Congratulations, Architect. Another job well done." I flashed a simple, formal smile
before straightening my back.

"Thank you," I muttered, accepting the hand of our new investors.

"Miss Valderama, congratulations!" Salubong sa akin ng iba na kaagad kong nginitian.

I accepted their hands, smiling humbly yet formally.

"Manang-mana sa ina," one of our oldest board member said when he got to me.

"My mother's still the best," I muttered, chuckling.

"Sandejas at Valderama ba naman ang dugo, talagang mahusay iyan." Ani ng iba na
kaagad kong ngitian.

After moments of pleasantries and greetings, I felt exhausted. Sumulyap ako sa team
na Malaki rin ang ngiti at nang mahuli akong nakatingin ay ngumiti sa akin.

"Architect, congrats!" One of my friends, also a member of my team, Anna said.

"Congrats sa ating lahat," I said, smiling and after we took a group picture ay dumiretso
akong muli sa opisina para magpahinga.

Being a Sandejas-Valderama isn't easy, maraming nagsasabing mabuti pa ako ay anak

mula sa angkan namin pero hindi nila alam ang bigat na dala ng apelyido na ito.

Being a part of the family is pressuring, for me. My mother and father never force me to
take architecture yet I wanted it, at first I didn't like it, gusto ko lang talagang gayahin
ang mom ko, the famous Architect Zidney Agnieszka Sandejas.

At young age, she is my role model. Fierce, smart and intimidating yet a good mother to
all of us.

Masaya ang aming pamilya, wala na akong mahihiling pa. if I was given a chance to
change families? I won't. I'd still choose Zidney as my mother and Thorn as my father.
Pero kagaya ng nararamdaman ko, I am pressured. Being the daughter of Zidney
Sandejas and Thorn Valderama, one of the greatest and famous architect and doctor in
their generation, I am expected to be one, too.

"Architect?" My eyes landed on the door and I saw my secretary, Akisha, walked inside
with a folder on her hand.

"What's that?" I asked and she smiled before putting it on my desk.

"Pipirmahan po, Architect." Aniya at tumango na lang ako kahit pagod na.

"Thanks and uhm, I want black coffee sana." I said and she nodded.

"Sige po, ayusin ko." Aniya bago ako iwan sa loob.

I opened the folder, saw it was the budget for our upcoming project which I have to
approve first.

I sighed, shook my head before reading it.

My back hurts and my nape ache yet I have to sit straight on my swivel even if I'm just
reading. My father warned me I might damage my spinal cord if I sit like a tambay at
nakatungo pa so, I am training myself.

Architect Scira Rosalie Sandejas Valderama.

I smiled when I saw my name and put my signature on it. Naalala ko pa noong
nagpaparaktis ako ng pirma noong college ako, I wanted my signature to be perfect,
furnish, just like my mom's.

Hindi naman ako nabigo at maganda ang kinalabasan, plus, I'm an architect too, like my
mother.

Dumating ang kape ko, I thanked my secretary before she left and I spent my time
reading reports and approving budgets for our projects.

I am wasted and tired yet I have to look good, pagkalabas ko pa lang ng opisina nang
malapit na ang uwian ay kaagad kong nakita ang tingin sa akin ng mga empleyado at
ang head ng mga department.

"Architect! Uwi na po kayo?" The man from the HR asked and I nodded.

"Yes," tipid kong sagot pero may ngiti sa labi.

"Ingat po!" Ani ng mga kasama n'ya.

"Kayo rin." I said softly.

Habang papalabas ako ay nakita ko ang pinsang kong papasok at kaagad na gumaan
ang loob ko nang makita ito.

"Kuya!" I exclaimed happily.

Kuya Chiel glanced at me, his cold blue eyes met mine and I saw how it soften.
"Scira," he called and I chuckled, tumakbo ako palapit sa kanya at napangiti nang kunin
n'ya ang hand bag na hawak ko.

"Napadaan ka?" I asked, kissed his cheek and he took my elbow to assist.

"Pinapasundo ka ni Tita Zid," he said and chuckled. "Looks like Miss Perfect got a hard
time today?"

I pouted and sighed, sumabay ako sa kanya sa paglalakad.

"Medyo lang, Kuya. I approved budgets for today and meetings, countless ones." I said.

"Baka ungusan mo na ang Tita Zid, ah?" He joked.

"Attorney, Architect! Magandang hapon po!" Bati ng guard nang makita kami.

We greeted him back and went out of the building.

"No one could surpass Mom, Kuya. Para maging kasing perfect ni Zidney Valderama,
kakain pa ako ng maraming bigas." I said and he chuckled.

"Narinig ko kanina may nakuha ka ulit na deal?" He asked me and I nodded. I saw how
his eyes glisten, I pouted when he ruined my hair.

"Kuya!" I exclaimed and he laughed.

"Good girl," he chuckled. "We are so proud of you."

My heart melted at that, "thank you." I said softly.

Pumunta kami sa kanyang sasakyan, he opened the door and let me in before walking
towards the driver's seat.

"Kuya, my car?" I asked him and he just shook his head at me.

"Don't worry about it, papakuha ko sa driver." Aniya at pinaandar na ang sasakyan.

We talked about things while on his car, one thing that I love in our family is that...we're
all close, like we're brothers and sisters, kahit magpipinsan kami.

We are making sure no one was left out, if may oras, palagi kaming nag-i-sleep over sa
ancestral house namin.

"Kumusta ang kaso, Kuya?" I asked him and he glanced at me a bit and smiled.

"Great, I got mild cases this week so I'm chill." He laughed, "but I think this coming
week's cases isn't easy as pie."

I chuckled and tapped his shoulder. "Ikaw pa ba, Attorney Sandejas? Anak ka ata ni
Iñigo." I said and he laughed at me.

"Well, my father's great, kagaya mo, marami pa akong kakaining bigas para maabot
s'ya." Aniya.

"Well, our parents are great." I chuckled. "Tayong mga anak marami pang
pagdadaanan para maging kasing galing nila."
"Anyway, I got foods in the back, gusto mo?" Aniya at sumulyap ako at napangiti nang
makitang may mga sweets doon at donuts.

"Para kay Tita Thallia?" I asked and she nodded.

"Hmm, she likes donuts, nakikihati rin si Crest." He chuckled and glanced at me.
"Anyway, Scira?"

"Yes, Kuya?" I asked when I noticed him kinda serious now.

"Did you reach her?" He asked.

"Si Ate Clyte?" I muttered and he nodded. "Hindi pa, eh." I sighed and I saw his lip
pursed a bit and nodded.

Naging tahimik na ang usapan naming nang matapos iyon at napabaling lang ako sa
phone nang tumunog.

My forehead creased when I saw Lucas' name, my boyfriend, calling.

I rejected the call but moments later, he called again and I saw Kuya Alchiel glanced at
me.

"Why aren't you answering?" He asked and I licked my lips and sighed.

"Nothing, Kuya. It's nothing important."

He nodded, his eyes landed on the phone I am holding before returning his gaze back
on the road.

Suddenly, my phone rang again.

Ano bang kailangan nito?

My forehead creased, nang maingayan ako at nahiya na kay Kuya Chiel ay iritado ko
iyong sinagot at inilagay sa tainga para marinig.

"Yes?" I asked casually and I almost frowned when I heard his voice.

"Scira! Why aren't you answering my calls?!" He exclaimed loudly on the phone.

"I'm in the meeting, Lucas." I said, resting my back on the seat and stared at my colored
nails.

"Until now?" He exclaimed.

"No, I'm on my way home." I said.

"Then why aren't you answering my calls?!" He exclaimed and my forehead creased.

"Why are you screaming?" I said, now feeling annoyed.

"Are you okay?" Kuya then muttered when he glanced at me and I smiled and nodded.
"Who's that?" He suddenly said on the phone. "Are you cheating on me, Valderama?!"

"Can you quit it?" I said impatiently. "I am with my cousin, Lucas. I am busy."

"Busy? Ilang lingo tayong hindi nagkita tapos busy?" He muttered. "H'wag mo nga
akong niloloko! Wala ka ng oras sa akin!"

Makapagsalita ang lalaking 'to akala mo ay asawa! I almost cursed at him.

"You see, Lucas, let's talk when we're both cool, okay? I have a family gathering
tonight—"

"Palagi na lang pamilya mo! Palagi naman kayong nagkikitang lahat, ah? Hindi ba
pwedeng ako naman?" He said frustratedly and I scratched my brow, trying to be calm.

"Lucas, that's my family we were talking about. I can't miss—"

"Kung mahal mo ako makikipagkita ka sa'kin!" He exclaimed, throwing tantrums like a

retarded child and my lips lifted.

"Fuck off." I said coldly.

Kuya glanced at me, he looks curious of my sudden cursing yet didn't say anything.

"Scira!" Lucas muttered but before I lost my cool and curse him non-stop, I turned the
call off and sighed.
"Boy problem?" Kuya muttered and I sighed, nodding.

"He annoys me every time." I muttered and he chuckled.

"Gusto mo upakan ko?" He joked, pretended to lift the sleeves of his shirt pa and I
laughed at him and shook my head.

"Ayos lang, Kuya." I chuckled.

"Sama ko pa si Deion, oh?" He said. "Pabaril natin kay Tito Zeij?" He joked at sabay
kaming napatawa sa sinabi n'ya.

We reached our house and my smile widened when I saw my cousins outside.

"Zire!" I exclaimed at the top of my lungs and I saw her glanced at me and almost
jumped.

"Bakla!" She muttered and run towards me.

We laughed while hugging, kaagad akong nagtungo sa bahay para batiin ang iba pa.

"Kuya!" I cheered when I saw my brother, Kuya Deion.

"Oh, Scira, maraming trabaho?" Aniya at kinuha mula sa kamay ko ang bag.

"Opo," I said, pouting and he chuckled. He looks a lot like my father, he kissed my
forehead first before letting me go.
"Sige, dadalhin ko sa kwarto mo 'tong bag. Go greet them, nasa kusina ang iba." He
said and left.

I entered the house and saw my titos and titas with my cousin. Karga pa ni Tito Dash si
Audette at napangiti pa nang makita ako.

"Ang perfect kong pamangkin!" He even greeted me and I laughed, walking towards him
for a hug.

Nag-bless ako matapos sila batiin ni Tita at sa mga pinsan ko.

I saw Tito Zeijan with Zion on the kitchen and I smiled when I saw them.

"Hello, mga gwapo!" I said and they glanced at me.

"Uy, si Miss Perfect!" Halos mabulunan pa si Kuya Zion sa kinakain nang makita ako.

"Perfect ka r'yan..." I muttered and he chuckled.

I greeted them, giving them hugs and kisses. Nang makalabas ng kusina ay naabutan
ko ang Mom and Dad ko na kausap sina Tita Thallia.

"Mom," I called and she glanced at me, smiling.

"Oh, my baby." She muttered softly, hugging and kissing my cheek before I glanced at
my father.
"Hi, Dad." My father, still handsome as ever smiled and ruffled my hair.

"How's my princess?"

"Good," I muttered and smiled at him.

I kissed his cheek too, nang mapansing nakaupo at naglalaro sa sofa ng manika ang
bunsong kapatid kong si Queen Scira ay napatawa ako, marahang lumuhod at niyakap
s'ya.

"Hi, my little teddy bear." I said softly.

"'Te!" She exclaimed.

"Gave Ate a kiss." I said and she giggle before giving me one.

The small gathering is superb and I felt happy for it, kagaya ng nakasanayan at dahil
nga may party ay sa bahay natulog ang mga pinsan ko.

Ang mga babae ay nasa kwarto ko habang na kay Kuya Deion ang mga lalaki.

"Naninibago ako kapag wala si Clyte," Ate Crest muttered while sitting on the bed, nag-
s-skincare naman ako habang pinagmamasdan s'ya.

"I contacted her pero hindi sumasagot," I said and sighed. "Busy siguro sa trabaho,
Ate." I muttered.
"Maybe?" Ate Crest sighed.

Sa aming lahat, Ate Crest is closest with my sister Ate Clyte kaya miski s'ya ay dama na
hindi nakarating ang Ate ngayon. She's now in Aklan for her new projects pero 'di nga
lang namin matawagan.

We had movie marathon, drinked a little and slept late kaya kinabukasan tuloy ay hindi
ako nakapasok.

It's okay with my Mom naman, my secretary told me I got no work to do kaya ayos lang
na absent ako.

The next day, I got back on our firm.

With my chin up and straight ironed hair, I feel confident walking around. I am wearing a
formal jumpsuit, my hair is on my back with my black hand bag on elbow.

"Good morning po, Architect." They greeted me and I smiled and nodded.

Sumabay sa paglalakad ko ang aking secretary, I glanced at her and saw her quite
nervous talking to me.

"What's the matter?" I asked and she smiled again.

"Uh, Architect kasi, nandito si Sir Lucas kahapon." She said and I stopped to look at
her.

"And?"
"He's looking for you, hindi ka raw po n'ya matawagan? Hindi rin po kami sumubok
tumawag sa'yo, Architect kasi baka abala ka." Aniya.

My brow raised, sumunod s'ya nang maglakad ako sa opisina at nagsalita.

"He almost made a scene, Architect. Pinatawag po ang guard pero umalis naman po
kalaunan." Aniya.

I nodded, put my hand bag on the table before sitting on my swivel.

"Okay, thank you." I said. "Can I have a cup of coffee?" I asked nonchalantly and she
nodded and bowed a bit.

"Sige po, Architect." Aniya at umalis.

I was bothered, iritado dahil sa pagpunta ni Lucas pero bahala s'ya sa buhay n'ya. I
don't need a nagger in my life.

As usual, my day goes on, countless meetings and tiring shake hands with rehearsed
smiles. Sometimes, it's tiring being the daughter of my parents yet I wanted this,
anyway. Might as well get used to it.

Nang buksan ko ang telepono ay kaagad akong inulin ng mga tawag at napailing na
lang ako ng makita ang pangalan ni Lucas.

Annoyed, I answered it.

"Scira! Why do you keep on ignoring my calls?" His demanding voice filled my ear the
moment I answered his call.

"Lucas—"

"H'wag ka na magpaliwanag. Let's meet later at dinner." He said, as if dismissing me.

"Fine," I said and ended the call.

Pagod ako pero alam kong kailangan ko nang kitain si Lucas ngayong dinner.

I checked my face first, sinuklay ang mahabang buhok bago tinignan kung may gusot
ba ang damit ko at nang makontento ay sumakay na sa kotse para magtungo sa itinext
n'yang lugar.

When I got to the restaurant, I fixed my clothes before going inside after I parked my
car.

Malayo pa lang ay kita ko na s'yang may kausap na babae sa table. My brow lifted yet I
didn't say anything, I walked towards him with my chin up the he almost jumped on his
seat when he saw me.

"Scira," he called and stood.

I saw the woman he's conversing stood, glancing at me with a mocking smile but I just
looked at her coldly.

"Girlfriend mo, Luke?" The woman asked and Lucas nodded, assisting me to sit.
I did sit, nakita kong natigilan ang babae dahil wala akong reaksyon.

"Uh, sige, Luke. Doon muna ako." She said before hesitantly walked away.

I immediate met Lucas' black eyes, I stared back at him and simply took the glass of
water to take a sip.

"Hindi mo man lang tatanungin kung sino 'yon?" He asked me, as if it's weird I don't
care if he's talking to someone.

"Tell me, then." I said and I saw his jaw clenched.

"She's a colleague." He said and I nodded.

"Okay."

"That's it?" He doesn't look please with my answer.

"Yeah? Do you expect I'd say something? Like, magwawala ako?" I asked.

"You should!" He said. "May kausap akong babae, hindi ka ba nagtataka kung bakit—"

"You said she's your colleague, right?" I asked.

"Yes, but won't you ask me if I'm cheating—"

"Oh, are you?" I asked and glanced at his eyes coldly.

"No!" He said frustratedly.

"Then, what's the point accusing you of something when you said you're not?" I asked
him, now folding my arms on my chest. "You know I am not the jealous type, Lucas."

"Yes, I know..." He almost pulled his hair. "But can't you at least act like you're jealous?"

Hindi ako umimik at pinagmasdan s'ya.

"You know what, Scira? I'm tired of this." He said and I just looked at him, didn't know
why know his next words. Maybe because it was used against me a lot of times?

"Wala kang pakialam, you're sweet when we're just in events pero kapag wala? Wala
kang pakialam!" He said, annoyed.

"You...You were so damn cold, you care less! You're a control freak!" He said and I tried
feeling the pain yet I felt nothing.

Well, Scira, you got used to it pretty well.

"You want me to be something I am not! I am not like you, Valderama, I am not perfect!"
He hissed and I know it's embarrassing because we're in the restaurant, I can sense
people looking at us.

"I never told you to be one." I said.

"Yes, but I still want to be!" He said. "Pero wala kang pakialam! Ni hindi mo nga
napansing nagpagupit ako!"

Nagulat ako at napasulyap sa buhok n'ya.

Oo nga.

"See?!" He looks annoyed. "I don't wanna be that someone who'll say yes to you every
damn time. I can't tolerate your sick attitude anymore!"

Sick, huh? Well, that hurt a bit.

"Well, I can tolerate my sick attitude just fine." I said at mukhang mas nainis pa s'ya
sa'kin.

"See? You're sarcastic!" He looks so insulted, his jaw clenched while shaking his head
at me. "You know what? I am breaking—"

"No, Lucas. I am breaking up with you." I said and I saw how he froze.

His mouth parted and blinked at me.

Napapahiya na ako pero ayokong natatapakan ang ego ko.

"Y-you..." He looks baffled.

"I am a control freak? Yes. Drama queen? Yes. Walang pakialam?" I chuckled coldly. "I
don't know, you didn't tell me your problems about my sick attitude."

"You won't listen, anyway!" He exclaimed.

"Well, did you try?" I asked and he stopped.

I chuckled, licking my lower lip before I glanced at my hand bag. I slowly took it and
placed it on my lap.

"Lucas, Lucas, Lucas..." I muttered. "Of all the men I've dated, ikaw ang pinakamaayos.
But these days? I don't know anymore."

"You are always jealous, mad, making a scene, you even asked me to choose you over
my family? No." I said and glanced at my finger nails. "I would never choose anything in
exchange of my family."

"Scira..." He looks stress now.

"I am breaking up with you." I said and stood while glancing at his shock face. "Ganito
lang pala ang sasabihin mo, you could have tell me on the phone instead."

"N-No, I just...I was shock, I really didn't mean to..."

"It's over," I said and placed my bag on my elbow before straightening my clothes.
"Goodbye, I had a great time, anyway."

His jaw dropped. He kept on calling me but I walked away without looking back.
No one walks out at Scira Valderama, unless it's me, walking out.

Sanay na ako sa ganito pero kahit papaano ay may pakiramdam pa rin ako. It hurt a bit,
not that much dahil ilang beses ko na 'tong napagdaanan pero may kurot pa rin kahit
papaano.

Well, the Miss Perfect, Scira Valderama is still a human, after all.

Napabilis ang lakad ko patungo sa sasakyan. Iritado ako at galit.

Kahit alam ko sa sarili kong ganoon nga ako sa sinabi n'ya ay masakit pakinggan kapag
galing sa bibig ng ibang tao.

The cold, heartless and egocentric Architect. That's what my exes kept on calling me
after we broke up. Well, ako pala ang nakikipag-break. Bago pa naman nila masabi ang
salitang 'yon ay uunahan ko na sila.

What a selfish brat, Scira. Really an egocentric.

I gasped in shock noong dahil sa pagmamadali ay may nabangga ako.

My bag fell on the ground, sa lakas ng pagkakatama ko ay napaupo pa ako sa lapag.

Oh, come on, wala na bang mas imamalas ako?!

"Miss," my eyes landed on the hand extending to me and I immediately took it.
A man helped me stand, iritado kong pinagpagan ang damit ko.

I saw the man took my hand bag on the ground and extended it to me.

"Sorry," he said even if it was me who isn't looking on my way.

I accepted my bag he gave me, lifting my head and saw the man with serious black
eyes. He's tall, in a clean cut hair and is wearing a simple black tees and maong.

"Thank you, Sir..." I said after I looked away. Humigpit ang hawak ko sa hand bag at
paalis na sana nang magsalita s'ya.

"Warren," he said and I froze, glancing back at him.

"Huh?" I saw him glancing at me, his hand now inside the pocket of his jeans and I
nodded, feeling weird at him.

"I'm Warren." He said and my mouth parted a bit when he said that.

"Oh, thank you, Sir Warren." I said and flashed a small, hesitating smile before turning
my back on him.

Kabanata 1
I woke up early to freshen up. I planned to go with my parents first at Dad's clinic,
tatambay lang tsaka ako didiretso ng opisina.

Matapos magbihis ay kaagad kong kinuha ang hand bag ko at bumaba para sa agahan.
As usual, maingay nanaman doon sa kusina kahit maaga pa.

I smiled.

Habang pababa ng hagdan ay kitang-kita kaagad ang malaking portrait ng aming

pamilya. On the back of the red, majestic sofa is my father, Thorn Arzeus Valderama,
with my brother, Deion. Sa sofa sa gitna naman nakaupo si Mommy, the one and only
Zidney Sandejas and beside her is me and my sister, Clyte.

Sa pagbaba ay kaagad akong binati ng mga kasama namin sa bahay at masaya ko

silang binati pabalik, I straightened my back, fixed my dress before I entered the dining.

Kaagad kong naabutan si Dad na nakaupo sa kabisera, may hawak na dyaryo at

sumisimsim sa kape. He looks serious, his black eyes read the words seriously and I
chuckled when I saw my mother beside him, nangungulit.

My dad is busy yet my mom tried entering her head on his arms at nang mapansin iyon
ni Dad ay walang pagdadalawang-isip n'yang binaba ang binabasa at natatawang
humalik sa mommy.

My heart swelled, seeing them like that.

Sa may kalan ay nakita kong nagluluto ang Kuya. He's busy doing his famous pancake
at natawa ako nang makitang nakasabit lang sa balikat n'ya ang shirt.
My eyes went on the baby seat near my father and saw my youngest sister, Queen
Scira, playing with her barbies, pinapalo pa n'ya ang lamesa.

"Seryoso, ah?" My eyes widen when I heard a voice and I gasped and tilted my head,
only to see Ate Clyte smiling.

"Ate!" I cheered happily.

She chuckled and I hugged her, I felt her hugged me back.

"Kailan ka pa nakauwi? You aren't answering my calls!" I exclaimed and she chuckled,
moving away from me.

"Naka-silent ang phone ko, Scira." She chuckled. "Kaninang madaling-araw lang ako
nakauwi."

Amazed and happy, I nodded. Sabay kaming lumapit sa hapag at nakitang hindi na
nagulat ang tao roon na naroon na ang Ate, I guess ako na lang ang walang ka-alam-
alam.

She sat beside our youngest. Lumapit ako sa parents ko para humalik.

"Good morning, Scira." My Mom muttered, still hugging Dad on his waist.

"Morning, Mom, Dad." I said softly, kissing my Dad's cheek too bago tumakbo kay Kuya.

"Pancakes!" Silip ko at napatalon pa s'ya sa gulat sa paglitaw ko.

"Jesus..." He muttered, fixing his glasses and I laughed, tiptoed and kissed his cheek.

"Morning, Kuya," I grinned and laughed when he lifted his arms, caged my neck and
jokingly choked me.

"Kuya!" I exclaimed and punched his abdomen. "Ang baho mo!"

"What?" His black eyes stared at me and I laughed when he pinched my nose. "Check
mo pang-amoy mo, naligo ako!"

"Kids, tama na 'yan. Let's eat." I heard my mom's soft voice and Kuya let me go.

I stuck my tongue out at him and he smirked, ruffled my hair and I glared at him.

"You ruined my hair!" I hissed and he laughed.

"Sorry na, Miss Perfect." He muttered and smirked at me.

Our breakfast is fun, as usual. My mother is still doing architecture pero madalang na.
She's now more fond of her new business, a flower shop.

Ate Clyte ventures to different businesses, she's a nurse in profession but sometimes,
she's a photographer and an event coordinator. She likes doing designing a lot so my
mom and dad allowed her to do what she wants.
My brother, Deion is a psychotherapist and is now working in the hospital owned by our
family. He got it maybe from our dad and he's good at his work, he help treats people
having emotional problems and he's good to be with.

While me? Well, I wanted to be like mom. I wanted to be perfect, like her. I want to be
like her, how she reigns in terms of architecture. I love it how she can go to different
countries and have projects.

She inspired me a lot so, I promised myself I'd be like her. Well, at least I can try?

Ate Clyte were left in our house with Queen, si Kuya naman ay hapon pa ang pasok
kaya kasama ko ang parents ko papunta sa ospital ni Dad.

I am on the backseat, checking on my lip to see if the lipstick shade goes with my dress
just fine.

"How's work, anak?" My eyes landed to the shotgun seat and saw my beautiful mother
glancing at me.

"Doing great, Mom." I said softly and smiled at her. "I closed another deal."

She smiled, even in her age, she's still glowing and beautiful as ever. Parang kapatid ko
lang ang datingan.

"I'm so proud of you, darling." She said, lumapit ako nang abutin n'ya ako and
something tugged inside my chest when she touched my cheek.

"We're proud of you, Scira." My eyes landed on my father glancing on the mirror and I
smiled lovingly and noded.
"Salamat po." I said softly, feeling contented that they're proud of me.

Kasama ko ang mga magulang ko pagkapasok naming sa ospital. Ito talaga ang hilig ko
whenever I wanted to chill or spent time with them, sasama ako sa ospital para
tumambay bago pumasok sa opisina.

"Good morning, doc, ma'am..." Bati sa amin ng guard pagkapasok pa lang namin.

We smiled and nodded, nakakapit ako sa braso ni Mom while she's holding my father's
hand.

Thorn Valderama looks serious while being greeted by the people and staff, I saw how
authoritative he looked while wearing a formal white dress shirt and black slacks. His
hair is quite disheveled and he's holding hands with my mother that despite her
sweetness, still looks intimidating and quite scary. Her hair is in a bun, wearing a simple
red blouse and slacks. Malamig ang kanyang tingin pero kung may babati ay ngingiti.9

"Mom?" I called and her black eyes stared at me.

"Yes?"

"Uh, una na kayo ni Dad. I'll just go to the bathroom first." I said and smiled at her.

"Oh, okay." Her eyes soften, I saw my Dad glanced at me, I can see his intense black
eyes behind his glasses.

"Where are you going, princess?" He asked me.

"Bathroom lang, dad." I said. "Sunod po ako sa inyo ni Mom sa clinic."

"Alright," he smiled and glanced at my mother.

Naiwan ako nang maglakad silang dalawa. I watched them as they walked away, their
fingers intertwined.

Through the years, I watched my parent's relationship grow. They fight at times yet they
managed to talked it out and fixed the problem if ever they have one.

I admire them. I want a relationship like my parents, like my grandpa and grandma, like
my aunties and uncles.

Will I have one?

I had countless relationships, I tried dating, having a relationship to see if I am capable

to have a romantic one. If I can be in love.

I've dated for experience and also to try and please my parents.

My exes often don't like my attitude, they said I am controlling, I am a perfectionist.

Gusto ko raw ay dapat nasusunod kaya nakikipaghiwalay sila yet...I would speak before
they could even break up with me so, the right term would be, ako ang nakikipaghiwalay
sa kanila.

Some cheated and when I broke up with them, I gave them a couple slap.
I may be a bitch for having this sick attitude but I would never cheat. I hate cheaters!

My mother likes Lucas' family, they came from one of the richest, they have businesses
all over the country and when Lucas and I met, I gave it a chance when he asked if he
could court me.

Yet...it ended just like others.

Lahat sila ay ayaw sa ugali ko. I'm getting used to it yet sometimes, it's just so tiring.

I checked myself in the mirror for one last time, I puckered my lips so I could see if it's
good na and when I am contented, I straightened my hair, stood straight before I go
outside.

The people greeted me when they saw me, I smiled and greeted them back too. I once
wondered how they know me pero naalala kong palagi pala akong tambay sa opisina
ng dad kaya siguro nasanay at kinilala na rin.

I knocked on my father's clinic and entered. Napangiti ako nang makitang nakaupo sa
swivel ng dad ang mommy, pinupunasan ang eyeglasses nito habang si dad ay
nakasandal sa may lamesa n'ya at pinagmamasdan lang s'ya.

"Thornie, should I get bigger shops?" My mom asked and I walked slowly towards them.

"Do you have a place in mind, queen? I can go check." He answered.

"Busy kayo, ah?" I called their attention and they immediately shifted their gaze at me.
"Come here, princess." My dad called and I walked towards them. I sat with my father
on the table, si mommy naman na abala sa pagpunas ng eyeglasses at ngumiti sa'kin.

"Scira, my daughter, do you have a place in mind? I'm thinking of opening another
branch of our flower shop." My mother said and I began thinking.

Yumakap ako kay Dad at nakita kong napatawa s'ya sa akin. He put his arms on my
shoulder and stroke my hair.

"Well, my princess is clingy like the queen." He said and my mom and I both laughed.

"It runs in the blood, doc." I said and he laughed and ruffled my hair.

"Kayong mag-ama talaga." My mother chuckled and stood, lifting the glasses and
placed it on father's eyes.

"Mom, near the firm. There's a place near the the mall. I think we can check on it and
see if there's a place?" I said.

"Oh, okay." She smiled and went in front of me and touched my face. "Can you come
with mom?"

"Sure, mommy." I said softly.

"I'm so happy my kids grew up great and beautifully." My mother said and glanced at my
father.
I saw her a bit emotional and something tugged inside my chest. I lifted my hand so I
could grasp her fingers and I saw how her eyes landed on it.

"I will make you proud, parents." I muttered. "I promise."

After a few hours of staying in his clinic, I decided to leave to my office.

It's my dad's work time na kaya ayaw kong makaistorbo sa kanila. Nagpaalam na ako at
saktong paglabas ay kaagad na bumaling ang mata ko sa unang pasyente ngayong
araw.

She's already talking to the secretary and I stopped and waited because I know her.

"Thanks, Miss." She smiled and then glanced at the door but when she saw me, she
stopped.

"Scira?" She called and I smiled.

"Ngayon lang ulit kita nakita, Winter." I muttered and suddenly, she chuckled, walked
towards me and offered me a hug.

I hugged her back. She's one of my father's patients, ang alam ko she's suffering from a
trauma from her past pero hindi ko alam kung ano.

I got somehow pretty close to her because she's approachable and my mother kept on
talking about her, telling me that she met Winter and she is the one who suggested to
take a look about her situation. Kaya naging pasyente s'ya ng dad.

"Things happened but I wanted to continue my therapy." She said and smiled.
"Oh, you looked super great." I praised her and she laughed, glancing at me.

"Ang ganda mo rin! Kamukhang-kamukha ni Tita Zid." She said and I just chuckled.

"Anyway, ikaw lang?" I asked and she shook her head, fixing her hair.

"No, I'm with my bodyguard." She said and I nodded.

"Take care, okay? My mom is with dad inside. Mauuna na ako, trabaho." I said and she
nodded. Nag-beso pa kami bago nagpaalam sa isa't-isa.

"Ingat po, Architect." Tawag ng pansin sa akin ng secretary ni dad na kaagad kong
nginitian.

"Salamat, ingat din." I said and left.

While walking on the hallway from my father's clinic, I suddenly felt thirsty.

I sighed, tempted to go back to his office to drink some beverage pero nakakahiya na
kaya inikot ko ang paningin para sa pwedeng kunan ng iinumin.

My eyes landed on the coffee maker and I frowned.

Okay sana but I don't drink coffee like that. It has high sugar content that could affect
my diet, I always want my coffee brewed and black, no sugar.
Hindi ko iyon nilapitan, bumaba ako sa ground floor and my eyes got fixed on the
vending machine near the benches where people and some patients sit.

I walked towards it, my eyes looked for a bottle of water but it was empty, tanging mga
softdrinks in can lang ang nandoon.

Ayoko sana but my throat feels so dry and I sighed, opened my back and checked my
purse for coins and walked near it.

Nagpasok ako ng tig-lilimang piso, check out the softdrinks with the lowest sugar
content and bought it.

I looked at the machine as it took the softdrink I chose. Nakuha ang isang can doon at
naeexcite ako habang inaantay but it faded the moment the machine got jammed. I
heard a sound inside and my eyes turned slit when my can got stuck.

"What the fuck?" I muttered.

Annoyed, I slammed the machine a bit, lowering my body so I could check the can pero
hindi nahulog sa lalagyan!

"What the hell? Are you kidding me?" I gasped and scratched my brows. "I'm thirsty as
heck and yet—"

"Need help?" I stopped, lifted my head, only to see a handsome man leaning a bit on
the vending machine, glancing at me while I make tantrums while squatting.

"Uhm..." I muttered.
He's wearing a simple grey shirt and pants, naka-sneakers pa s'ya at ang magulong
buhok ay mas nagdepina sa mukha n'ya.

"I saw you're having a hard time so..." His black eyes stared at me.

"Well," clearing my throat, I stood. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin dahil sa kahihiyan sa nakita
n'yang ginawa ko at sumulyap sa machine. "My can got stuck, I think the machine got
jammed."

"Hmm," he nodded, glancing at the machine.

My eyes scanned him and I saw his hand on the pocket of his jeans. He looks awfully
handsome to me that I am thinking if I've seen him before.

"Let me check, Miss." He said, smiling a bit and I took a step back when he faced the
machine.

He has a muscular back, just by his stance, I can say he likes work out a lot or if not,
maybe he's an athlete.

His arms have a few visible veins, I can see his round butt on his maong pants and my
mouth formed an O.

Why does men with round butts is a major turn on?

He knocked on the machine, I watched him do his thing and my jaw dropped when in
just one slam of his hand on the machine, I heard the sound of the falling can.
"Wow..." I muttered, watched the man squat to take the can of my softdrinks.

He stood, lifting it and glanced at me.

"Here," inabot n'ya sa akin at namamanghang kinuha ko iyon sa kamay n'ya.

"Wow, that's great!" I muttered happily while glancing at him.

Naramdaman ko ang lamig ng can sa kamay ko kaya mas nakaramdam ako ng uhaw.

"How did you do it?" I asked, trying to open the lid but my nails are quite long.

"It's easy." He muttered yet I tried opening the lid again because I can't.

I frowned, frustrated again. Kaka-manicure ko lang!

I heard a manly chuckle, accompanied by his low voice. "Let me, Miss." He said and
offered his hand.

Pouting, I gave it to him. Nahihiya pa habang pinagmamasdan s'yang buksan ang

softdrinks and nang iabot n'ya sa akin iyon ay nangiti ako at mabilis na uminom.

I almost gasped when my throat freshened up, nilayo ko ang can at nagulat pa nang
masalubong ang mata n'ya. He's silently watching me, smiling a bit. I can see adoration
on his black eyes and I smiled.

"Thank you nga pala, Sir." I said.

"No worries." He said, the side of his lips lifting for a smile.

He looks really familiar pero hindi ko maalala if we already met. His hair is black and
kinda messy, he has pointed nose and sculpted jaw, may kaunting beard din s'ya dahil
sa patubong bigote pero ang gwapo pa rin at hindi madumi tignan.

He's tall, I am reaching his nose even if I'm wearing heels. Paano pa kaya kung hindi
ako naka-heels?

"I'm surprise seeing you here," he muttered and my forehead creased a bit.

"Huh?" I asked, "uhm, I'm sorry but...have we met before?"

I saw him stopped, his smile slowly faded and he cleared his throat.

I sipped on the drink and bit my lip.

"I-I'm sorry," I chuckled a bit. "It's just that... Hindi kasi ako matandain, I don't know if we
have met or what..."

"I'm Warren," he suddenly said and I nodded.

"Well, I'm Scira." I said, smiling. "Thanks, Sir Warren."

He suddenly laughed, I'm confused pa at first but his lip pursed handsomely as he
shook his head.
"Adorable." He whispered.

"Sino?" I asked.

"You—" We got interrupted when my phone rang.

Nagmamadaling kinuha ko iyon sa bag at nakita ang pangalan ng secretary ko.

"Uh, excuse me." I muttered, smiling at the handsome man staring.

He nodded.

My lips protruded. Nilagay ko ang phone sa tainga at nag-antay sa sasabihin n'ya.

"Hello?"

"Ma'am, Sir Lucas is here... Hinahanap ka po." She muttered and I groaned.

"What is he doing?"

"Ma'am, sorry, ah..." She puffed a breath. "But he's making a scene."

"Shit..." I muttered under my breath. "Call the guards, I'm on my way." I said, lowered
my phone and glanced back at the man watching me quietly.
"Uhm, I have to go, Sir." I said and he nodded, placing his hand lazily on his pocket.

"Alright, take care." He said and I smiled.

"Thanks again." I said and hurriedly walked away to check the commotion in my firm.

I am mad at the commotion, hinihila na ng guards paalis si Lucas pero hindi ito tumitigil.

"Architect Scira," Douglas called the moment he saw me.

"Architect." I called.

"Sorry, we tried calming him down but—"

"Scira!" My brows furrowed when Lucas saw me. He's about to run towards me but the
guard's too fast to stopped him.

"What are you doing, Lucas?" I asked and I saw how his eyes landed from me to
Douglas beside me.

"What? May bago ka na? At talagang ang lalaking iyan!" He exclaimed when he saw
the man beside me.

"What are you saying?" I asked.

"You cheated on me? Ano, mayabang ka na kasi may ipinagpalit ka?" He exclaimed
and I gasped.
"What the hell, Lucas? Stop making commotion in my firm." I said timidly, cold and
enrage.

"How can't I? I loved you yet you..." he sighed. "You played with me!"

"Oh, I did?" I asked, raising my brows and crossing my arms.

Pinagtitinginan na kami pero wala akong pakialam! I am so tired of this man making a
scene!

"You can't break up with me!" He hissed.

I chuckled sarcastically and tilted my head. "Oh, can't I?" I muttered.

"Yes!" He exclaimed. "Your family still needs us! Your family—"

"Well, Mr. Isabel, I don't think our family need yours." I stopped and my eyes got fixed
on the door and a smile almost left my lips when I saw my Kuya Deion.+

"Deion..." Lucas muttered.

"I think the Sandejas-Valderama firm could stand just right, even without anyone's help."
He said coldly, I saw him folding the sleeves of his black dress shirt up to his forearm.

Lucas froze, staring at my brother coldly glancing at him.

"I-I'm sorry, Deion, it's just that, Scira broke up with me and I think she's cheating!" He
muttered and my brother's forehead creased.

"You have proof?"

"N-No, but I think..."

"You broke up with him, princess?" Kuya glanced at me and sighing, I nodded.

Ayaw ko mang mamroblema pa sila pero wala na akong magagawa.

"Good." Kuya suddenly said that even me stopped.

"What? Deion!" Lucas muttered and I saw Kuya's brow lifted and glanced at him.

"Having a commotion here isn't good to see, Mr. Isabel." Kuya said coldly. "And no one
could ever accuse my sister things she's not."

I almost clapped my hands, natahimik ang lugar at miski si Lucas ay natahimik.

"Get him out of here." Kuya said coldly and walked towards me.

The guards dragged the screaming Lucas out, lumapit naman sa akin si Kuya at
napangiti ako bigla nang ngumuso s'ya sa akin.

"You playgirl," he muttered.

"Kuya!" I exclaimed and suddenly, he smirked.

"Tara sa opisina mo," he said and kissed my forehead before taking my bag.

"Napadaan ka?" I asked and he shook his head, lifted the folder he's holding and my
eyes widen.

"You left it at dad's clinic, pinadala lang sa'kin." Aniya at napangiti ako at sumama.

I got pretty busy through the whole day, meetings and such. Nang umalis ang Kuya ay
tumawag ang mommy para kumustahin ang nangyari.

After that, for the night, I still have to meet with some of our clients for a dinner meeting.

Nagtungo ako sa Casa Amara Manila para kitain ang mga kliyente.

"Thank you, Architect. We're looking forward to have you in our project." He offered his
hand.

"Thank you." I said and smiled before accepting their hand.

After a few pleasantries, I decided to go check myself in the bathroom.

I fixed my hair, adding color on my lips and cheek before finally going out.
Lumabas ako sa resto patungo sa lobby pero natigilan nang may makitang komosyon.

"Aray! Aray! Pagkatapos mong yurakan ang pagkatao ko, Warrion?! Panindigan mo
ako! You said I am your baby! Bakit may Winter ka ngayon?"

My eyes widen when I saw a familiar man.

It's Warren! But then...why is he pulling some man's hair?

"Shut up! Winter might hear you!" Ani ng kasing tangkad na lalaki na sinasabunutan din
s'ya.

"Wait..." My eyes widen when I saw my dad's patient, Winter going near them.

"Sagutin n'yo ako, mag-jowa kayo?!" She exclaimed.

Biglang naitulak 'nung tall man na may green na mata si Warren na magulo na ang
buhok pero nangingiti.

"The hell, no!" The man he's with exclaimed and harshly shook his head.

"How dare you deny our love affair, Warrion?!" Warren exclaimed there, clutching his
chest and looking dramatic and I gasped.

Wait...Is Warren gay?

But I think he's a man! Kanina, ang gwapo n'ya at buo pa ang boses and now...

Napasinghap 'yong isang lalaki at kitang-kita ko na ang hiya sa mukha n'ya.

"Fuck you, Miranda! I will fucking--"

"Anong fucking! Hoy ako ang diligan mo!" Winter exclaimed at napatingin sa kanya ang
dalawa.

"Baby, Winter, don't mind him, he's a fucker--"

"Ouch! My heart! My soul! Anong karapatan mong yurakan ang pagkatao ko ng ganito,
mahal ko?!" The man with green eyes touched his head when Warren spoke.

They were the center of attention, I gasped and I honestly felt nasayangan when I saw
Warren on the wall, dumadausdos na pababa.

Nag-wa-walling s'ya! Santisima!

Oh, God. I couldn't imagine seeing am that handsome doing a dramatic walling!

"What the heck, Miranda!" The man exclaimed.

I covered my mouth and gulped hard. Still couldn't believe that the man I find handsome
earlier really is a member of the federation.

I have nothing against their sexual orientation, the truth is I have some gay friends but
it's just too shocking to see. I can't believe this.

The man with green eyes hissed, pulling his hair before walking towards Warren.
"Stand up!" He exclaimed and that's when I walked towards them to help if there's
anything I could do.

"No! After you hurt my feelings! May babae ka pala, akala ko ako lang?! Ako pa ang
bumili ng mga bagong damit mo--" Warren exclaimed.

"What's happening here? Everyone okay?" I asked and I saw how the three of them
shifted their gazes at me.

"Scira!" Winter called.

"Uy, Win!" I smiled sweetly then waved at her. "Okay lang kayo? Anong meron?" I
glanced at the boys.

I saw the man with green eyes looks shock with his eyes blinking.

My eyes landed on Warren and he looks super pale, his eyes are wide, like he'd seen a
ghost, his mouth is parted and he looks like he'll faint in any moment while leaning on
the wall.

No one spoke, I suddenly feel bad for Warren.

He helped me earlier and I think I could somehow help him if this man he loves can't
accept his love. That's just too sad.
"Kuya, sana naman maging aware tayo na kahit kasama sila sa pederasyon, deserve
nila ang love." I told the stunned man with green eyes and slowly glanced at Warren
and smiled sweetly.

He's a good man, he helped me, he didn't deserve being treated like this by the man he
loves.

"Ayos ka lang, sis?" I offered my hand at Warren and smiled.

"I..." I saw Warren flushing hard. He gulp, I saw how embarrassed he is.

"I..." He gulped again, trying to say something but stuttering.

"It's okay, sis, come on. Stand up." I said and I saw how his eyes landed on my hand.

Hesitating, he accepted it and I slowly helped him up and when our eyes met, I saw how
his face looks shy. His black eyes almost cried while looking at me.

His jaw clenched and I sighed, smiling.

"It's alright, don't cry." I muttered and tapped his cheek.

I heard Winter clearing her throat at tulala lang si Warren. He's unmoving, tila estatwa
habang nakamasid sa akin kaya marahang binuksan ko ang braso.

"Come on, it's okay to hug." I said and gulping, he shook his head.
I laughed. "Ayos lang, comfort mula sa iyong kabaro." I said and his jaw dropped, wala
nang nagawa nang hilahin ko s'ya para sa yakap.

"S-Scira," he muttered.

"Hmm?" I asked and tapped his back slowly.

I feel you, sis. I feel you.

"I-It's not what you think it is—"

"I have nothing against your sexual orientation, sis." I said softly, feeling sad of his
rejection and tapped his back.

"I—"

"You can be my friend," I said. "You can tell me your heartbreaks."

"Y-Yeah?" Pumiyok pa ang voice n'ya ang slowly, I felt his hug.

"Yes, sis." I sighed and slowly moved away, cupping his cheek before looking at his
eyes.

"Sana maging mag-kumare tayo." I said softly and I saw how his eyes widen.
Kabanata 2

I still don't get it kung bakit may mga taong ayaw sa sexual orientation nila. I got a few
gay friends and I can say they're fun to be with.

Kaya I feel so sorry for Warren, being rejected in front of the crowd like that. Kung ako
rin siguro ang ganoon, mapapa-walling din ako.

Too bad but we there are always some love you just can't have. Love you'd never
reciprocate. No matter what you do.

"Ang lalim ng buntong-hininga ng prinsesa ko," my eyes shifted and a smile left my lips
when I saw my father.

He's sitting on his swivel. Fixing his glasses while looking at me.

"Nothing, dad." I muttered. "Maybe I'm just tired?"

He lips lifted for a smile, I watched him stood from his swivel and I couldn't deny how
powerful Doctor Valderama still looks like even in his age.

He's filled with authority, his eyes were serious and he's cold at times but we knew how
much soft he is with us, his family.

He's wearing a white dress shirt, wearing his doctor's coat and on the pocket of his coat
are his ballpens with different colors.

"You wanna go home?" He asked and I pouted, shaking my head.

"No, Dad." I said. "You said we'll dine together, right? We'll just wait for mom?"

"Yeah," he said. "Gusto ko sanang tayong lahat but Clyte's busy and your brother too, I
don't know, he's quite busy with his patients."

I smiled and nodded, my father went on the side to get some tea and I chuckled when
he put the cup in front of me.

"Tea talaga, Dad?" I asked, chuckling a bit.

He smirked, sitting in front of me. "Well, your old man needs that, I don't drink that much
sweet beverages."

"Old man?" I glanced at him and shook my head. "You don't look like that, Dad. The
queen's still head over heels in love with you."

I saw how his black eyes glistened a bit, a playful smile on his lips and he combed his
hair with his fingers.

"Don't wanna boast around, Scira, but your Mom's still head over heels." He said in a
laughing small voice at sabay kaming natawa.

"Hoy, kayong dalawa, pinag-ti-tsismisan n'yo nanaman ako?" I shifted my gaze and
laughed when I saw my Mom on her blue dress, kakaalis n'ya lang ng shades at umirap
kaagad.

"Dad said you're still head over heels in love with him." Sumbong ko.
Nanliit ang mat ani Mom, she glanced at my father who's been smirking. Nakasandal sa
sofa at nakahalukipkip.

"Feeling!" My mother exclaimed, placing her hand bag on dad's desk.

"What? Hindi ba?" My father asked and the famous, original maldita, Zidney rolled her
eyes again but then grinned.

"Sa bagay," she muttered and hopped. "Kahit may rayuma na itong tatay mo, Scira,
mahilig pa rin."

"Zidney!" My father exclaimed and I bursted out laughing when he pulled mom on his
lap, trying to cover her lips.

"Oo, nak. Alam mo namang—"

"Bata pa iyang anak mo, Zid!" Dad exclaimed, quite blushing na and I laughed.

"Bata? Twenty-three na 'yan!" She said and pushed dad's hand pero naghihilahan lang
sila roon. "Kumalma ka, ang buto mo—"

"Damn, queen, I could still throw you in the bed—"

"Uhm, guys?" I muttered and they both stopped and glanced at me. "I'm sorry pero it's
super SPG?" I asked and my father's eyes just widened and mom laughed.

"You know why we managed to add Queen Scira—" She tried explaining but I
screamed and covered my ear.
"Mom!" I hissed and my mother laughed and pulled dad's hair when he covered her
mouth.

The next months are tiring, nang matapos ang project na nakuha ko ay mayroon
nanamang bago. We got a lot of projects coming kaya mom camae back to the firm and
get some, still, hindi naming ibinigay sa kanya ang mabibigat na proyekto.

We don't want the queen feeling stress, kaya ako ang kumuha ng isang collaborative
project para sa isang condominium. The owners contacted me personally and they're
good friends of my family kaya sa halip na ibang architect sa team ko ang pakuhain ay
ako mismo ang kumuha.

Kinda sad but I have to leave for this project, I might sleep in one of the condo units
provided by our clients in this project kaya ang dami kong dala.

"Seriously, Scira?" I chuckled when Kuya Deion frowned while carrying my baggage.

"Why?" I asked innocently but almost laughing again at his crumpled face.

"Ilang taon ka ba mag-s-stay sa lugar na 'yon?" He asked me and I shrugged.

"Hmm, months? Dunno exactly."

"Tss," he rolled his eyes. "Ano ba 'tong bagahe mo, anong laman? Buong mansyon?"
Reklamo na n'ya kaya napatawa akong lalo at kumapit sa braso n'ya.

"You see, Kuya, may beach daw malapit doon kaya I wanna go swim." I smiled.
"You have two big freaking baggage, Scira. Anong laman nitong isa, swimsuit lang?" He
raised his brow.

"Hmm, mga ten pairs lang. Dito sa isa work clothes ko and dito sa isa, mga casual.
Kapag papasyal. May sandals din ako tapos dito sa bag pack ko 'yong make ups—"

"Jesus," he whispered and I laughed when I saw his startled face.

"Seriously? I can go in a vacation for months with only a baggage and you—"

"Shut up ka na lang, Kuya." I rolled my eyes. "S'yempre lalaki ka, ako kasi maarte.
Kailangan always presentable. Hindi pwedeng hindi, anak kaya ako ni Zidney."

"Whatever," he chuckled huskily and ruffled my hair. "You take care there, okay?"

I smiled and nodded. "Of course, ako pa ba?"

"Uh-huh?" He smirked. "Don't forget to call."

"Hmm, okay." I said.

He shook his head, habang naglalakad kami papasok sa airport namin ay kaagad na
sumaludo ang guard sa amin.

"Doc, Architect." They called and we both smiled.

After they scanned our baggage, sumama sa akin ang Kuya papasok sa loob para
ihatid ako. I helped him carry some of my things and after namin maibigay ang baggage
ay pumunta kami sa waiting lounge.

I looked around and I smiled when I saw who's approaching.

"Hey there, Captain!" I exclaimed, waving my hand upon seeing my cousin, Kuya Macky
on his white uniform is walking towards us.

"Oh? Scira?" He called.

Kuya stood, nag-apir sila ni Kuya Macky bago ito pumunta at ginulo ang buhok ko.

"Bakit palagi n'yong ginugulo ang buhok ko?" I sulked, glaring at the both of them and
they only laughed. Kuya Deion went near me and brushed my hair a bit.

"Saan ang lipad natin, prinsesa?" He asked and I snorted.

"I have a project," I said. "Kaya ayon, I'll be away for a while." I smiled.

"Hmm, take care, okay?" I smiled at him and nodded.

"Calling the attention of Captain Marcus Sandejas, please proceed to the front desk,
please." I heard the speaker calling his name and Kuya Macky glanced at his watch and
back to us.

"I have to go, I have a flight at thirty." He said and we nodded. "Scira, take care, okay?"
"Opo, Kuya." I stood and gave his cheek a kiss.

He smiled then glanced at Kuya Deion. "Dei, una na ko." He said and watched the both
of them do a fist bump before Kuya Macky left.

Kuya Deion stayed with while I wait for my flight. Nakatulog pa ako sa balikat n'ya
habang abala s'ya sa pagbabasa ng kung ano sa phone n'ya.

"Hey, princess. Is that your flight?" Kuya wake me up after a while and I scratched my
eyes, yawned a bit and stared at the screen.

"Oh," I muttered, fixed myself and Kuya took my hand carry bag. Dalawa iyon at
napapailing pa s'ya kanina pero wala na s'yang nasabi.

"Take care, princess, okay?" He said and I smiled and nodded, Kuya gave me my bags
and kissed my forehead.

"Okay, Kuya. I'll text you if I get there." I said.

"Don't forget to eat, magtatrabaho ka roon kaya h'wag mo munang isipin ang diet mo.
Have enough rest."

I chuckled. "Okay."

"And no boys, okay?" He said and I rolled my eyes.

"Kuya!" I pouted and he smirked and held my arm.

"Bata ka pa, hindi pa pwede ang boyfriend-boyfriend—"

"As if I didn't have, huh?" I muttered. "I have a lot of exes, Kuya."

"But they're douchebags and you're a playgirl." He scolded me and I smacked his arm.

"Let's stop this na, I'm late." Tawa ko.

Hesitating, he let me go alone. Ngayon lang kasi ako napalayo ng ganito sa pamilya
kapag may proyekto ako at buwan pa!

Hindi na ako naihatid ni Kuya sa loob. Bringing my two hand carry baggage, I walked
with my chin up, smiling at the crew who recognized me.

Kahit medyo mabigat ang dalawang dala ko ay dapat confident pa rin maglakad.

"Uy, si Architect. Hello, Ma'am!" I smiled when they recognized me.

"Hello." I smiled softly.

"Sino 'yan?" I overheard one of the new crew asked while I'm falling in line to get my
tickets check.

"Anak ni Architect Zidney." He answered her and I can see how shock registered on the
crew's face while glancing at me.
"Oh my God, hello, Architect!" She greeted and I smiled and nodded.

"Hello," I greeted back.

Medyo nagkagulo sila, the head even called me.

"Architect, dito ka na." They motioned me a line where I don't have to fall in line
anymore but I shook my head and smiled.

"Thank you, but I think I'll just fall in line." I said.

"O-Oh, sige po, Architect." Aniya pero narinig ko pa ang bulungan na bilisan ang pag-
che-check para hindi na ako pumila ng matagal.

I am flattered for being a VIP, 'yong tipong pinapauna ka, palagi kang inaasikaso but I
know when to use it properly, just when only needed, hindi naman urgent ang pagpila
kaya ayokong gawin iyon.

Maybe being a Sandejas does ring a bell, huh? After all, this is Tito Dash's airport.

Nang makalagpas doon ay buhat ko ang isang medyo magaang baggage na hand carry
ko habang nasa braso ko ang isa. I am doing just fine but then I heard my phone ringing
on my handbag.

I groaned, looked around and sighed when I can't find anything where I'd put my bag.
Hindi ko na alam kung ano ang gagawin. Reluctantly, I removed my eye glasses and
put it on my head while balancing my feet with my baggage not to fall.

I shook my head, sighed and looked around. Sinubukan kong ibaba sa lapag pero
nagdadalawang-isip ako.

For pete's sake, this is Chanel!

I cursed under my breath, tumigil ang pagtunog ng phone ko pero muling tumunog
pagkaraan kaya nagpa-panic na ako.

I gasped, labag man sa loob ay humigpit ang hawak ko sa bag at akmang ilalapag na
sa lapag when a hand stopped me from doing it.

I was confused but the hand took my bag and when I lifted my eyes, I gasped.

"O-Oh," I muttered, still shock.

"Go on, answer it." I heard his baritone voice and I gulped, smiling a bit and answered
my calls.

Nagmamadali, I took my phone, opened it and cursed when I saw Lucas' name.

He still won't stop bothering me!

It made a loud sound, he's calling again and nahihiyang sumulyap ako kay Warren at
nakitang tahimik lang s'yang nakatingin sa phone ko.
I cleared my throat, answered it and I heard his voice.

"Scira, Scira, please. Talk to me." I heard his voice.

"Lucas, pwede ba? We're over, I told you—"

"It's been months! Answer me, kaya wala kang bagong boyfriend kasi 'di ka maka-
move-on—"

"Quit it, okay?" I muttered, annoyed. "First of all, I am busy."

"No, you're not! Iniiwasan mol ang ako." He hissed. "You're still not over me, right?
Kaya wala ka pa ring bago, 'di ba? Kaya—"

"Lucas..." I heaved a sigh. "I have a flight—"

"No! You still can't get over me! Come on, mahal mo pa rin ako, 'di ba?" He asked
desperately. "Kaya...kaya wala kang bago kasi—"

"I have a boyfriend, okay?" I muttered and I felt him stopped.

I glanced at Warren and I saw him staring at me. He looks so darkly handsome,
nakasimpleng itim na shirt at maong, his dog tag is on his neck, silently waiting for me
while I make calls.
He looks serious, his jaw clenching a bit and I must admit he's handsome kaso nga
lang, pareho kami ng bet.

"Y-You're lying!" He hissed at me, "you're just saying that to hurt me! Scira, please, I'm
sorry if I said something, hindi na mauulit—"

"Can you quit it? I have a boyfriend, and uhm, kasama ko s'ya ngayon and I am not
fooling you—"

"Then let him talk!" He hissed.

My heart pounded a bit, I glanced at Warren and saw him silently staring at me. His
eyes are a bit dark yet didn't say anything.

"I just—"

"You're lying!"

"I am not, okay?" I muttered. "I am really now with him but—"

"Let me," my eyes widen when Warren took my phone and without saying anything put
it on his ear.

"Who's this?" He asked coldly on the phone and my heart pounded. Hindi ko alam kung
dahil kinakabahan ako bigla sa usapan nila o dahil sa medyo galit ang boses n'ya.

"Yes, I am." I heard his baritone voice.

Abala pa rin sa pagkausap.

I bit my lip, medyo pinagtitinginan kami pero walang nagtangkang magtanong.

I can almost hear Lucas' loud voice pero hindi ko lang makuha ang gusto n'yang
sabihin. My lips protruded, watching Warren listen to him.

"Stop pestering my girlfriend." He said and my throat dried up while listening to him.

His forehead creased, I watched him eagerly and he licked his lower lip.

"Fuck off." He said coldly, ended the call and gave it to me.

I was still in shock, I accepted the phone and immediately took my bag from his hand.

"U-Uh, Warren, thank you. Sorry sa abala." I muttered and he nodded.

I noticed that he's in a fool mood. I gasped when he nodded, licked his lip and turned his
back at me.

Naglakad s'ya paalis at napasinghap ako.

"Sis!" I exclaimed. "E-Este, Warren! Uhm, wait!"

Parang tanga akong humabol, naglalakad s'ya paalis pero mabagal ang lakad n'ya kaya
nahabol ko s'ya. I gasped when I get his shirt and tugged it immediately.
"Got you!" I exclaimed and I saw him stopped, glanced at me with his shocked face.

"Uhm..." I smiled nervously. "Sorry, Warren, uh, naistorbo ba kita? Sorry kasi, ex ko
'yon, si Lucas. He won't stop pestering me so...I said I have a boyfriend, sabi n'ya gusto
n'ya kausapin and I have nothing tapos—"

"You...don't have a boyfriend?" He suddenly asked and I saw how hiss eyes soften a
bit.

"Yeah..." I licked my lip. "I just, thank you kasi lumapit ka para—"

"Don't worry about it," he suddenly said, took my bag and I gasped in shock.

"Warren, you don't need—"

"Let's go, I guess we have the same flight." He said and walked towards the airplane
with my bag.

"Oh, okay!" Naguguluhan man ay mabilis akong sumunod sa kanya.

He's so weird, he looks mad then after a while, he's okay again.

We got outside to go up the stairs towards the airplane and I saw how Warren glanced
at me, as if waiting for me.

A smile left my lips as I walked towards him.

"Sorry, Mars, mabagal." I said and my heart almost dropped when the side of his lips
lifted.

"I thought we're mag-kumare?" He asked, slowly touching my hand to let me go first.

"Kahit ano pwede." I chuckled a bit. "After the hotel, I haven't seen you again, ngayon
lang. I really thought we won't see each other again so..."

"Uh-hmm," he hummed.

I am really happy seeing Warren here, saglit lang kami nagkausap noong nakaraan yet I
feel quite comfortable with him and I realized na sa bawat pagkikita naming dalawa ay
palagi n'ya akong tinutulungan.

"Welcome aboard, Architect." My eyes shifted and I gasped when I saw who the flight
attendant is.

"Daru!" I gasped and she chuckled, offering her arms to me.

"Saan ka, bakla?" She asked and I laughed and tapped her back.

She's wearing a blue uniform, a red scarf is on her neck and her hair is tied neatly in a
bun.

"May project ako," I said and her eyes landed behind me. She threw me a teasing look
and I gasped when I realized what she's saying.

"Darshana, no." I hissed at her.

"Kapalit ni Lucas?" She muttered and I glared at her, slowly glancing at Warren who
stayed while I make chitchats with my cousin.

"Uh, Daru, he's Warren." I said and I saw how Daru's eyes widen a bit when he saw
Warren.

"Nice meeting you, Miss." I heard Warren said and Daru chuckled a bit when she heard
his voice.

"Uh, Darshana." Daru smiled and offered her hand. "Ang gwapo mo naman, jowa mo?"
She pointed me and my eyes widen.

"Darsh!" I gasped and she laughed.

Warren smiled a bit, I almost praised his handsomeness. I bet if he's really a man, baka
crush ko na s'ya. I think crush ko nga s'ya, medyo, pero hindi pwede kasi 'di kami talo.

"No, sis. Pareho kami ng hanap." Warren said and I almost coughed when his voice
swayed a bit.

I saw Daru's mouth parted and I chuckled, waved my hand on Daru's face while she
stayed there like a wall and pulled Warren's wrist.

To my shock, magkatabi kami ni Warren. I watched him as he lifted my baggage on the

compartment above. His arms are firm, sa shirt na suot ay bakat pa ang dibdib n'ya ang
I almost gulped because he's just...I don't know? Yummy!
May nakita pa akong mga Amerikana na sumusulyap habang walang pakialam s'yang
nag-aayos ng bagahe sa itaas at nang magkatinginan kami ay ngumiti ako.

"Tara, Mars! Upo ka!" I said and I saw him blushed a bit but sat beside me.

He has muscles in the right places, he seems quite nervous sitting beside me and I
caught his eyes before smiling.

"Thank you talaga ng sobra, Warren." I said and he glanced at me. His black eyes
stared at my face as he gulped a bit and nodded.

"No worries." He said and looked away.

I pouted, medyo shy pa s'ya pero I know he's a good person.

"Uh, sorry, Warren but am I feeling close?" I asked and he immediately shook his head,
looked at me with his creased forehead.

"No," he muttered eagerly. "You're not, ako nga dapat ang nagtatanong n'yan—"

"Asus, patola ka, sis!" I laughed and smacked his arm. "Doon pa nga lang sa hotel
gusto na kitang kumara kaya no worries." I giggled.

"Y-Yeah?" He glanced at my eyes.

"Oo naman!" I said then glanced at his arms. Slowly I touched it and gasped. "Wow,
Warren, you have muscles, ah?"
"Well, yeah..." He glanced at my hands on his arms and I saw him blushed a bit.

"M-Macho ba?" He asked and I grinned and nodded.

"Yes, ang pogi mo nga 'nung nagbubuhat ka ng bagahe d'yan. Alam mo, kung 'di lang
tayo pareho ng hanap baka crush na kita." I said.

I am expecting him to look disgusted yet I only saw shock on his face.

"T-Talaga?" He stuttered.

"Yes!" I said happily. "You know, I don't really this galawgaw ang makulit with other
person but you know, I like you."

He froze. He blinked rapidly while staring at me and I grinned.

"S'yempre, magkumare tayo!" I said and I heard his laugh afterwards.

"Fuck, where do I get myself into?" He whispered and I pouted.

"What?"

"Nothing." He opened his eyes and smiled a bit. "I just, I have candies here, baka gusto
mo?" He asked and offered me his bag.
I chuckled, masayang kumuha ng isa at lumapit.

"You're so good, I like you. Buti na lang kumare kita." I said softly, giving him a quick
kiss on the cheek and glanced at the airplane's window.

A moment passed and Warren didn't say anything. Nagtaka na ako kaya bumaling ang
tingin ko sa kanya at naabutan ko s'yang tulala sa upuan.

He's in the middle and my eyes widen and I saw him gripping the sides of his seat. He's
red and unmoving kaya I got worried.

"Warren?" I called and when he didn't move, I snapped my fingers on his face.

He jumped a bit and stared at me, still shock and I smiled.

"You okay?" I asked and he nodded a bit.

For the rest of the flight, miminsang nag-uusap kami ni Warren. Darshana did a safety
drill in the middle but her eyes stayed at Warren.

I bet she's shock, knowing he's gay.

I rested my head on the seat and closed my eyes, tumayo pa ako ng bahagya para
ilayo sa akin ang aircon na nakatutok pero malamig pa rin.

I didn't have a jacket with me. Nasa hand carry ko kaso nasa compartment naman.
Nasanay na siguro ako, whenever we travel, hindi na ako nagdadala ng jacket dahil
alila ko si Kuya Deion, once he saw me shivering in cold, he won't hesitate to give his
jacket to me kaya hindi ko na rin inaalala iyon.

But now...they weren't here.

It's actually my first time travelling alone, without them. Nakakatakot at nakakakaba but I
have to show them it's okay even if it's not.

I touched my arms, sighed because I'm shivering when I saw a hand in front of me. I
shifted my gaze, only to see Warren's black eyes staring at me.

"Cold?" He asked and I bit my lip and slowly nodded.

"Y-yes," I smiled.

"Here," he said and my eyes widen at him.

"N-no," I muttered. "Paano ka? It's cold kaya—"

"I'm fine, Scira." He said and ashamed at first, I slowly took his jacket and smiled.

"Thank you," I whispered and he smiled and nodded.

Warren helped me wear the jacket, my heart pounded on my chest because of his
kindness and I bit my lip, feeling glad I found a friend like him.
He checked the jacket at me, natawa pa ako kasi malaki at hindi na makita ang kamay
ko pero niyakap ko lang ang sarili at pinagmasdan s'ya.

"Thanks, kumare." I said and he pouted a bit. Ang gwapo-gwapo ng sister ko sa

paningin ko ngayon but I know better.

He nodded, I rested my head on the seat and tried sleeping but my head fell. I groaned,
inayos ko ang likod at muling sumubok matulog pero hindi ko magawa kaya suminghap
ako.

"Come here," my eyes shifted at Warren and I saw him lifted the handle separating our
seats and offered his shoulder.

"Hmm?" I asked.

"Sleep on my shoulder." He said and I bit my lip and glanced at him.

"H-hindi ba uncomfortable?" I asked and he smirked, slowly lifted his hand to place my
hair at the back of my ear.

"Alam mo namang hindi tayo talo, sis, 'di ba?" He whispered, his voice now turned girly
and I laughed, punched his arms playfully but then rested my head on his shoulder.

He made sure I am comfortable and when I am, hindi naman na ako makatulog. Gusto
ko na sanang umalis sa pagkakasandal kasi nakakahiya but then he smells so good.

I took his hand, I felt him tensed up a bit but I just played on his watch and he remained
silent while watching me do it.
"Warren," I slowly called.

"Hmm?" He murmured and I smiled.

"I just, why are you mad kanina after you talked to Lucas? When I said I have a
boyfriend pero noong nalaman mong wala, okay na?" I asked him and I felt him froze.

I played with his watch and he didn't answer me.

"I just..." He said a bit.

"Hmm, crush mo ako, ano?" I asked teasingly.

"Y-yeah." He muttered and I didn't expect it. I moved a bit, glanced at his eyes and I
saw his eyes widen too as he gulped.

"Uh..." He suddenly smirked. "J-joke lang, kumare." He laughed.

Hindi ako umimik. I glanced at him with my wide eyes and he cleared his throat and
took my hand.

"A-ang ganda ng manicure mo, ah? I like the color, sis." He said softly and I bit my lip.

"S-sa mall ko lang pinagawa." I said and he nodded.

"I-I just, you know, nagalit ako k-kasi, 'di ba, magkumare tayo?" He suddenly asked and
I nodded.

"Y-yeah?"

"And when y-you said you have a boyfriend, I'm annoyed kasi, akala ko mag-kumare
tayo."

"Oo nga, kumare kita." I said, confused and he looked at my eyes and smiled.

"I just, nangako ka kasi sis, 'nung nakaraan na sabay tayong hahanap ng boylet." He
suddenly muttered and I blinked.

"You know..." He laughed a bit. "Sa pederasyon, may batas..."

"O-Oh?" Umayos ako ng upo at nakinig.

"Ang magkukumare, stays forever, lalandi together." He said and I gasped and nodded.

Kabanata 3

I rested on Warren's shoulder, hindi ko na namalayan at nagising na lang nang

maramdamang medyo umuga ang eroplano.

I opened my eyes and yawned.

I shifted my gaze a bit and saw I am on someone's chest the moment I woke up. If this
is an ordinary day and I woke up like this, baka nagwala na ako sa nangyari but may
kumare is here so, no worries.

I shifted my head a bit and my mouth parted a bit when I saw Warren's face up close.

He's handsome. He's not that kind with the soft kind of handsome, he looks so strong
and dark. More like the manly type of handsome.

Sayang nga lang at hindi kami talo, hmm?

He has thick brows, pointed nose and reddish lips. I smiled when I noticed his forehead
creased a bit, nahulog ang kamay n'ya sa balikat ko at bumagsak ang kaunting buhok
sa kanyang noo.

I chuckled, slowly moved away from his chest and stretched my back. He remained
seated, his face fell a bit and I slowly took his head towards my shoulder and let him
rest.

He smelled nice, minsan talaga naiinggit ako sa mga perfume ng boys kasi matagal
mawala tapos 'yong sa mga babae naman ay mabilis lang. 'Yong tipong mag-s-spray ka
pa lang tapos mahahanginan at wala na.

I held his jaw a bit, letting him feel comfortable.

I smiled when he stirred a bit yet relaxed after a while.

Nangingiti na ako, hindi ko alam kung ang bango n'ya ay dahil sa pabango lang o dahil
ganoon na talagang natural na amoy n'ya lang iyon.
I saw Darshana approaching with his food cart. She immediately smirked when she saw
the man on my shoulder.

"Ma'am, ano sa'yo?" She asked and I chuckled.

"Shut it, Daru." I muttered.

"Sus, hindi pa rin ako maka-move-on na tagilid ang daang tinahak ng friend mo." She
said, giving me two sandwiches and cans of soda.

"Mineral lang sa'kin, Daru." I said and chuckling, she gave it to me.

"Arte, diet again?" She asked and I laughed.

"Yeah, well, you know I don't drink soda that much." I said and she smiled.

"Sige, bye, bakla." She said, waved at me and winked before walking away.

Dahan-dahan ko pang inilalagay sa maliit na lamesa sa harapan ko ang pagkain para

'di magising si Warren.

"You should have wake me up," a husky, low voice filled my ear and my heart thumped.

Halos mapasinghap ako nang umangat ang kamay n'ya para hawakan ang hawak ko at
s'ya na ang kumuha sa akin.
I licked my lip, watching him put the foods on the built in table in front of us.

I saw his arms stretched a bit and I chuckled and touched his arm.

"Ma-muscle ka, mare, ah." I said and he chuckled a bit and glance at me.

"Marami kasing macho sa gym, Mars." He said in a girly voice and I laughed and
smacked his arm.

"Yeah, right." I said.

He smirked, kinuha ko ang isang sandwich at binuksan at nakitang kumuha rin s'ya ng
isa at binuksan.

I ate mine, sumandal ako habang kumakain pero natigilan nang nahulog ang buhok ko
sa balikat. It annoyed me a bit, ayaw ko sa lahat ay magulo ang buhok ko habang
kumakain kaya sinubukan kong kunin ang maliit kong bag para hanapin ang pang-ipit.

I closed the sandwich, ilalapag na saan roon sa lamesang maliit pero mabilis na kinuha
ni Warren ang bag ko. I glanced at him, nakita kong kagat n'ya ang sandwich na maliit
na lang ang natira at nakamasid sa'kin.

"Uh," I chuckled a bit when I saw his questioning eyes. "Kunin ko sana ang pang-
ponytail."

He nodded, I watched him took my ponytail and I chuckled when he ate the sandwich
fully and raised his brow. He swallowed it before glancing at me.
"Let me tie you," he said and I smiled and turned my back on him a bit.

I felt his fingers brushing on my scalp down the strands of my hair and a moment later,
my hair is in a neat ponytail.

"Done," he said and I looked at him and smiled.

"Thanks, Mars." I said. "Bilis mo kumain, ah?"

"Hmm," he chuckled a bit and nodded. He rested his back on the seat, opening his can
of soda and noong matapos na akong kumain ay kaagad kong kinuha ang mineral
water at sinubukang buksan.

I find it hard to open, muli ako sumubok para buksan but Warren is too attentive, kinuha
n'ya mula sa kamay ko ang bote at namangha pa ako nang mabilis n'yang nabuksan.

"Here," he said and I took it in amazement.

"Wow, ang bilis mo naman buksan?" I chuckled and he lips just lifted, slowly removing
the strands of my hair near my cheek.

Uminom ako ng tubig habang nakikipagtitigan sa kanya at kaagad na ngumiti

pagkatapos.

"Titig na titig, Mars, ah? Mamaya n'yan, ma-in love ka na?" I asked and I am expecting
him to roll his eyes at me but he didn't, I saw his face reddened.

"Warren?" I called and I saw him gulped and chuckled nervously.

I saw how his eyes landed on my lips, unconsciously, I licked it and saw how he gulped.

"Warren?" I called.

"Uhm, ah..." He licked his tongue and pointed my lips. "You have something..."

I nodded, inilagay ang daliri sa gilid ng labi para punasan ang kalat.

"No," he muttered. "Right there." He pointed again.

"Dito?" I asked.

"No," he said and I was shocked when he lifted his hand and removed something on my
lips with his finger.

My mouth parted a bit, nang mailayo n'ya ang kamay ay mabilis akong kumuha ng
tissue para sa daliri n'ya.

"Here..." I said but my voice faded when I saw him licked the mayo on his finger.

"Why did you..." I muttered and I saw him froze a bit, nakita ko ang panlalaki ng mata
n'ya at mabilis na pagkuha ng tissue mula sa akin.

"Warren," I called and I saw him smiled.

"Matamis ang lipstick mo, girl. Anong flavor?" He asked and I blinked.
"F-fresh strawberry." I muttered and I saw him nodded.

"D-daan naman tayo sa mall, gusto ko rin n'yan." He said and confused, I found myself
nodding.

Moments passed and when the pilot announced we're about to land. Inayos ko ang
seatbelt, I saw Warren checked me first before fixing his.

I smiled, he's super thoughtful.

Kung lalaki lang itong sis ko, baka jowain ko na agad.

"Thank you for flying with us," Daru said at the passengers going out the aircraft.

Nakita ko ang ngisi n'ya habang papalabas kami.

"Thank you for flying with us, Architect." Daru smirked upon seeing me, glancing behind
me.

"Thank you for flying with us, sis." Daru said in a small voice when she saw Warren.

"Daru!" Saway ko at pinalo s'ya.

She laughed, shaking her head at me. "Inaano kita, Scira?" She teased.

I glared at her. "Gusto mo ikaw paliparin ko?" I hissed and she rolled her eyes at me,
laughing.
"Sorry pero may nagdadala na sa'kin sa langit, Architect." She smirked.

I froze, humagalpak s'ya ng tawa pero nang matantong pinagtitinginan s'ya ay tumikhim
s'ya at umayos ng tayo. She straightened her back, smirked at me and waved at
Warren.

"Bye, sis. Alagaan mo itong pinsan kong perfect." Daru muttered and I pouted.

"Bye, sis. Share mo naman kung sino nagdadala sa'yo sa langit, baka may kapatid.
Papalipad din ako." Warren said in a small, flirty voice.

I frowned.

Nang makita iyon ni Daru ay natawa s'ya at napangisi na lang ako nang mag-apir ang
dalawa habang natatawa.

"Basta letter C," Daru muttered. "Call kita, sis." She said and I laughed when they did a
high-five.

"Ang harot n'yo mga sister." I said, chuckling and kissed Daru goodbye before going out
the aircraft.

Warren really is a gentleman. He is ruggedly and darkly handsome, seryoso ang mukha
pero mas maharot pa sa akin. Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit attracted ako sa kanya,
siguro ay dahil sa mukha? Or dahil mabait s'ya?
Kung hindi ko alam na na-broken s'ya dahil sa isang lalaki, iisipin kong babae ang
hanap n'ya. He's manlier than Lucas and my other exes, he has that kind of aura where
woman would like him in just a single glance.

Habang nag-aantay kami sa bagahe ay nakaramdam ako ng lungkot, maghihiwalay na

kami ni Warren.

"Mars," I suddenly called while holding Warren's arms.

"Hmm?" He hummed, his black eyes glancing down at me and my lips protruded.

Ang gwapo ng Mars ko.

"Na-sa-sad ako." I said in a small voice.

I saw his black eyes soften a bit, bumaba ang kamay n'ya kaya nabitawan ko ang braso
n'ya.

"Why?" He asked and lowered his head a bit so our eyes would align.

"I just..." I gasped when someone bumped me from the back, nawalan ako ng balanse
sa gulat but Warren was too quick to touched my waist and pulled me towards him.

Our eyes met, I gulped harshly when I saw his intense eyes.

"Sorry, Miss. Sorry." Napasinghap ako at mabilis na lumayo kay Warren, he assisted
my arms and we both glanced at the man who lowered his head to apologize.
"Okay lang," I muttered and he apologized again before he left.

"You alright?" My eyes landed beside me and I smiled and nodded.

"Yes, Mars. Thank you." I said.

He nodded, lifting his hand to placed my hair at the back of my ear.

"Maghihiwalay na tayo pero hindi ko pa alam ang full name mo," I muttered and I saw
him met my eyes and smiled.

"Warren Augustine Miranda," he muttered.

"Wow..." I said. "Ang gwapo ng pangalan mo."

"Augustine sa umaga, Cristine sa gabi..." He said seriously and we stared at each other
before we bursted out laughing.

Pinagtitinginan na kami pero hindi ko mapigilan ang tawa. Warren wanted to be serious
but he can't help but to laugh at himself too. He is blushing profusely, he kept on
shaking his head and touched my shoulder because I am losing my poise.

I bit my lip, suppressing my laughters. Natatawang yumakap ako sa baywang ng Mars

ko at tumikhim.

"N-nawawala na ang poise ko, Mars." I said and he laughed near my ear.
"Tintin for short, Mars." He whispered and he laughed again.

May naisip ako kaagad kaya lumayo ako sa kanya at ngumisi.

"Ako naman si Shasha." I said at nagkatinginan kami kaya mas ngumisi ako. "At tayo
ang?"

"Super twins!" We both exclaimed and lifted our hands to connect our fingers.

Para na kaming tanga, nakaupo na kami sa bench dala ang mga maleta pero hindi ako
makalma.

Warren is blushing, his jaw kept on clenching but I can't stop my laughter. Pinalo ko ang
hita n'ya kaya napasulyap s'ya sa'kin.

"Sa'yo lang ako ganito, Mars." I said and I saw how his forehead creased. "I mean, I
never laugh that hard in public, nakakahiya. Nakakasira ng poise kaya it's really my first
time."

His lips lifted, "I feel honored then." He said in a baritone voice.

I froze again, our eyes met again and we stared at each other for a while before I spoke.

"Galing mo magpakalalaki, Mare. Parang totoo." I muttered and laughed.

He remained serious, nawala ang tawa ko at napalunok ng marahas.

"M-mars?" I called.
"Paano kung lalaki nga ako?" He asked and I chuckled and pinched his cheek.

"Edi jowain kita," I said.

He was stunned, I saw how his mouth parted a bit. "T-talaga?"

"Hmm, my exes are a-holes. They're cheaters, they kept on making me choose
between them and my family." I said and glanced at him.

"Hindi ka naman ganoon, 'di ba?"

"I-I'm not," he immediately shook his head and I giggled and tapped his cheek.

"Pogi mo, Mars." I muttered and smiled.

Natahimik kaming dalawa sandali, while waiting for my sundo sa airport, I decided to
ask Warren questions.

"You think we'll see each other again?" I asked him after a while and I saw him glanced
at me and nodded.

"Yeah," he said.

"Bakit ka nga pala nandito?" I asked, "I didn't expect to see you again after the hotel
scene kaya nagulat talaga ako."
"Project," he muttered and I smiled and glanced at him.

"Sama, I have a project too. I'm an architect in profession, you?" I asked and he smiled.

"I have a lot of works," he chuckled nonchalantly, as if may nakakatawa sa sinabi n'ya.

"Hmm?" I raised my brow.

"But I'm an engineer." He said and my jaw dropped.

"Oh, gosh..." I muttered. "Architect ako tapos Engineer ka! Compatible tayo, sis!" I said
and I saw his lips lifted.

"Uh-huh?" His said in a low voice.

"Ang husky ng boses mo, baks. Nakakanginig." I said and he laughed and glanced at
me.

"W-well, uhm, my family didn't know I'm not straight." He said and I gasped and looked
at him.

"R-really?"

"Hmm," he hummed, slowly taking my hand and I watched him caressed my palm and
checked my fingers.

Bet n'ya talaga ang manicure ko.

"It's okay, sis. Mahirap talagang lumantad, lalo na at judgmental na ang ating society." I
said and caught his finger.

I touched his calloused hand and smiled, "sasama kita sa salon ko sa Manila, may
discount ako, Mars."

"Hmm, okay." He smiled.

Sumulyap ako muli sa kanya, I saw him glancing at me and his hand lifted to touch my
cheek.

I blinked, my mouth parted a bit to talk but then he spoke before I even did.

"A-anong skin care mo, sis?" He asked and my lips protruded and I chuckled.

"Ikaw nga dapat ang tanungin ko n'yan. Ang ganda ng skin mo, oh. Walang pores." I
said and touched his cheek too.

"Kung hindi ko kayo ka-sis, iisipin ko mag-jowa kayo." We both stop. Sa paglingon ko ay
napairap ako sa hangin nang makita si Darshana, bagsak na ang buhok pero
nakauniporme pa rin at may bitbit na maleta.

"Bakit ka nanaman nandito?" I spatted, she laughed, ibinaba ko ang kamay sa pisngi ni
Warren at tumikhim ang huli at umayos ng upo.
"Wala, bakit ba? Bawal dumaan?" She rolled her eyes and I stood to talk to her. Warren
said he'll just go to the restroom at pagkatapos nila magkawayan ni Daru ay bumaling
ako rito.

"Inaantay ko sundo ko sa condominium, nauna kasi ako sa team. Sa susunod na araw

sila dadating." I said and she shrugged, fixed my hair a bit.

"I have another flight, I'm sleepy, Scira. Halos twenty-four hours na akong may flight."

"Ikaw kasi," I shook my head. "You could have told Tito Dash about your schedule.
Pwede mo namang ayusin—"

"No, I don't want Dad meddling with my schedule. You know I don't want a VIP
treatment here." She said and I sighed.

"After ng flight mo, saan ka didiretso?" I asked and she shrugged.

"Dunno, maybe somewhere? May nanggugulo, eh." Aniya at tinuro ang kung sino.

I shifted my gaze, only to see a handsome man walking towards her and took her
baggage.

"Oh," I muttered.

I saw the man looked a me, dimples are visible on the side of his cheek and I smiled at
him after Daru introduced us to each other.
"Take care of my cousin, okay?" I reminded the man and he smirked and nodded,
touching Daru's waist and led her back to the office.

"Who's that?" My eyes landed behind me and saw Warren.

"Jowa at ani Darshana," I chuckled and I saw Warren's brows furrowed. "Don't worry,
Mars, ilalakad ka ni Daru sa mga boylet na iba." I said and laughed.

"Akala ko nakalimutan na ako," he said, his lips protruded a bit and I laughed, kumapit
ako sa kanyang braso para bumalik sa bench.

It's sad but Warren promised we'll meet again, we exchanged numbers before I leave
and it led me to the pad where I'll be staying while the condo unit is in progress.

"Bye, Mars." I said, hugging Warren who, hesitating at first, lifted his hand and hugged
me back. "Promise me, we'll meet again?"

"Yeah, I promise." He said and when we moved away from each other, I immediately
tiptoed and kissed his cheek.

"Bye, Mars." I said, waving and walked back but he remained standing there like a
statue.

"Kumare!" I said in a loud voice and he blinked, I saw him licked his lip and lifted his
hand to wave at me.

"B-bye..." He said.
Pumasok na ako sa shuttle pero mabilis pa akong nagbukas ng bintana para kumaway.

"Bye, Tintin!" I exclaimed and I winked and blew him a flying kiss.

I am smiling but it faded when he lost his balance, muntik pa s'yang mitumba roon kaya
suminghap ako.

"Sis!" I exclaimed loudly. "Oh my God! Kuya, sandali!"

Tumigil ang shuttle, mabilis akong bumaba, hindi na alintana ang heels at lumapit kay
Warren na gulat nang makita ako.

"Okay ka lang, sis? Anong nangyari?" I asked and held his arm.

"Y-yeah, I just..." He muttered and brushed his hair with his fingers. "B-bakit ka pa
bumaba?"

"Kasi baka hindi ka okay, I was shocked. I saw you almost lost your balance and I
thought you'll faint kaya..."

"I'm okay, I'm just feeling a bit odd." He said, tilting his head and touched his chest.

"Huh?" Nervous, I touched his chest and felt his rapidly beating heart. "M-may sakit ka
sa heart?" I asked and he cursed lowly, shaking his head and slowly took my hand.

He caressed my palm a bit and shook his head.

"T-this is not good, you should go."

"Huh?" My forehead creased.

"I'm okay now, I'm just..." he smiled. "Go, sis. It's late."

"Ayos ka lang?" I asked worriedly, lifting my hand to feel his temperature.

I saw how his eyes soften a bit while glancing at me and nodded.

"Y-yeah," he said.

"Alright, call me, okay?" I said and I saw him nodded at me and smiled.

I sighed, waved at him before turning my back. Naglakad na ako pabalik sa shuttle pero
nagulat nang may humawak sa braso ko at mabilis akong naipihit.

I gasped, almost curse but then I met Warren's eyes.

"O-oh, Mars, ikaw pala..." I said but my voice faded in thin air when he lowered his head
and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek.

Mabilis lang pero ramdam ko ang init mula sa labi n'ya.

I gasped and blinked. "S-sis?" I called and I saw his intense eyes gazed at me.
He touched my cheek where his kiss landed and my eyes were fixed on him.

"B-bakit..."

"N-natotomboy na ata ako, Mars." He said in a low voice and I gasped.

Kabanata 4

"Mars," I called.

"H-huh?" He blinked at me.

I sighed, lifting my hand and cupped his cheeks.

"Mars, lumaban ka." I said and his eyes widen a bit.

"Scira, I..."

"Lumaban ka, Tintin." I said eagerly while looking at his eyes. "H'wag kang
magpapadala sa tukso."

"B-but..."

"Alam ko namang maalindog talaga ako pero lumaban ka, mas malakas ka sa inaakala
mo."
"H-huh?" His voice stuttered a bit. "I mean..."

"It's okay, Mars. Ayos lang na ma-confuse ka sa mga bagay-bagay." I said and tapped
his cheek.

He gulped, lumayo naman ako at ngumiti sa kanya.

"Sisters tayo forever, Tintin, okay?" I said and hesitating, I saw him nodding before
chuckling a bit.

"Y-yeah right," he muttered and licked his lip.

"B-baka nga confuse lang ako, Mars." He said and chuckled. "Alright, uhm, goodbye.
You should go."

He said. I smiled and nodded.

Kumaway pa ako sa kanya na may kita habang diretsong naglakad pabalik sa shuttle
na nag-aantay.

When I got inside and shut the door, I gasped. Napahawak ako sa dibdib kong mabilis
na rin ang kalabog at napailing.

My heart actually thumped when he said he's turning tomboy na! Oh, God. Is this a
good sign?
Tama bang crush ko ang kumare ko?

"Erase! Erase!" I exclaimed, slapping myself and shook my head. "Mali, Scira. Hindi
pwedeng—"

"Ma'am, ayos lang kayo?" My eyes landed on the driver and saw him glancing at me in
the mirror.

"Uhm, yeah." I muttered, mabilis na umayos ng upo, hinawi ang buhok ko bago inilapag
ang kamay sa hita.

Calm down, Scira. Nakakahiya ka, girl.

When I got into the hotel where will I stay for the rest of the project, kaagad kong nakita
si Mr. Aurelio.

"Architect Valderama!" He greeted when he saw me.

I smiled and nodded, may lumapit sa aking staff para kunin ang maleta at sinalubong ko
ang kliyente.

"Mr. Aurelio," I greeted.

"Architect, we feel honored to have you here." He smiled, offering me his hand which I
accepted.

"My pleasure, Sir." I said and smiled.

"Alam ko pagod ka pa sa byahe, do you want me to tour you around now? Or bukas?"
He asked and I smiled and nodded.

"Today will be fine, Sir. Para maaga ko rin pong ma-revise ang plano if ever, sa
susunod na araw ay darating na ang team ko." I said and he smiled and nodded.

The old man smiled and led the way. He showed me the top floors for renovation.

"We wanted something new for our tenants, lalo na sa mga VIP." Aniya at inilahad ang
two-storey condominium unit. "Gusto sana namin ay iba-iba per floor at mamimili ang
mga kliyente kung ano ang gusto nila."

I nodded, looking at the place.

"Well, Sir, I prepared three different designs you can choose from." I smiled. "My team
prepared some too, we can discuss it further if we have a meeting from the other firm?"

"Oh, yes." He smiled. "You really are competitive and outstanding, Architect, like your
mom. You act like Architect Zidney."

I chuckled and shook my head. "Well, Sir, I could never surpass my mother, maybe in
the future pero marami pa akong kakaining bigas."

He laughed, his wrinkled forehead is visible. "Well then, I can set you a meeting with the
head engineer from Miranda Firm."

I smiled and nodded.

"Very well,"

"Hindi ko alam kung narito na iyon, eh. His team will be here kasabay ng sa'yo, the
head engineer in this project came earlier, I'm just not sure if it's tonight or tomorrow
morning. I'm still waiting for his call."

the staff led me to my room after our quick talk, pagkakita kaagad ng sarili kong kwarto
ay natuwa ako. It's two-storey, kagaya ng ipinakita kanila. The interiors are great, the
design too kaso nga lang ay hindi na modern at hindi na masyadong papatok sa
panlasa ng kabataan sa ngayon.

Sosyalin ang kwarto ko.

I smiled, lumapit ako sa malaking salaming pader at nakita ang malawak na dagat sa
kalayuan. Mula sa pwesto ko ay nakita ko ang mall sa malapit at sa kanan, kung saan
maraming puno ng niyog ay naroon ang isa pang hotel.

My forehead creased, trying to read the name at the top of the hotel.

Casa Amara

I smiled, I love the design of that place. I wanna try visit it some time.

Inayos ko ang damit ko sa maleta, I put my skin care products on the vanity mirror and
put some on the large bathroom.
Sa lahat, isa ito sa pinakaimportanteng bagay sa akin. I would never sleep without
doing my skin care routine, I have to maintain my smooth skin. Para always young
looking din.

I was super tired, I rested on the comfy soft bed and sighed.

My back hurts, so much for today, huh?

I felt my stomach crumpled, bigla akong nagsisi na tinanggihan ko ang pa-dinner kanina
ni Mr, Aurelio. Suminghap ako bago tumayo, sumilip sa refrigerator sa loob ng unit pero
napailing lang nang makitang walang ideal na kakainin.

Some are frozen foods, mga eggs din and such. Okay sana kahit papaano but the
things is...I can't cook.

I am perfect, like they said, in every aspects, beauty, brains and skills but with
household? I don't think so. I failed in this one.

Ngayon ko lang natanto na mahirap mabuhay sa ibang lugar kapag wala ang mga
magulang. We have house help for the foods, laundry and cleaning. Abala lang ang
pamilya sa mga negosyo at trabaho kaya kahit ako, hindi naisip na balang araw ay
kakailanganin ko rin ito.

I sighed, stared at my clothes and saw I'm now wearing my sleep wear.

Ayaw ko man at may diet plan pa rin, I have to eat because I'm tired and hungry.

I changed my clothes to a simple shirt and shorts, I wore my sandals and tied by hair
into a messy bun.
Sumubok ako sa restaurant sa ibaba pero puno ng tao. I sighed, susuko na sana at
babalik sa kwarto pero muli kong naalala ang mall sa malapit.

A smile rose from my lips, mabilis akong lumabas at nilakad ang distansya mula sa
hotel patungo sa hindi kalayuang mall.

The place isn't scary at all, it was well lit. Kahit maraming puno ay hindi nakakatakot,
hindi s'ya kagaya ng sa ibang lugar na kapag maraming puno ay matatakot ka biglang
may mandadagit sa'yo.

May wakwak pala pero buti ay mukha namang wala rito.

The air so fresh, it smelled so good, mula sa daanan ay langhap ko ang sariwang amoy
ng maalat na dagat sa malapit.

Peaceful and fresh, I like this place.

After a less than five minute walk, I reached the mall. Hindi man kasing laki ng sa
Maynila ay pwede na, I saw restaurants and fast foods all over the place. May mga
boutique ring iilan at mga make up shops.

I am tempted to go inside the make up shop yet my stomach says otherwise.

Babalikan kita mamaya.

I eyed the shop before starts deciding where to go. I saw the fast foods filled with
people, sumubok akong tumingin ng menu nila sa itaas pero tanging mga burgers or
any foods with high sugar and calorie content lang ang naroon kaya umatras ako.
No, no way. Kung ganyan, baka I might spent hours in the thread mill kaya doon nalang
ako sa kaunti lang ang calories.

After the thorough evaluation, I decide to eat in a restaurant with the lesser people.
Pagpasok ko pa lang ay kaagad akong naasikaso at naupo pagkatapos ay namili na ng
pagkain.

While waiting for my order, I took my phone. Nangiti ako nang makita ang number ni
Warren kaya mabilis akong nag-type.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Hi, Mars! Nasa mall ako kumakain, saan ka? Hoping magkita tayo ulit soon!

I saw a few customers entering the place, may mag-jowa at may lalaki ring naka-cap at
color white na shirt.

The first thing I noticed is the round butt. Natuwa ako kaagad, parang butt lang ng
kumare ko, oh.

"Here is your order, Ma'am." Nawala ang atensyon ko sa lalaki dahil naging abala ako
sa pagkain.

I stopped when I felt someone looking at me, I shifted my gaze, only to see the man
wearing a cap glancing at my direction.
My forehead creased, trying to take a glimpse of his face pero mabilis s'yang nagbaba
ng tingin at inayos ang cap.

My lips protruded, hinayaan na lang at baka nag-iimagine lang ako at muling bumaling
sa pagkain.

My phone rang, kinuha ko iyon at napangiti nang makita kung sino ang nag-message.

From: Kumareng Tintin

See you soon, Mars. H'wag ka haharot, okay?

My laughter roared.

Napatingin sa akin ang mga customer kaya tumikhim ako at umayos ng upo.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Yes naman, sis. Mag-kumare forever, lalandi together, 'di ba?

Ibinaba ko ang phone pagkatapos. I heard the ring tone from some of the customers,
napasulyap pa ako sa lalaking naka-cap kasi parang sa kanya galing.

I saw him drinking water from the glass, opening his phone. Nakita kong may binasa
s'ya at miski ako nagulat nang mabilaukan s'ya ng tubig.

"Sir?" Lapit sa kanya ng staff kaya napangiti na lang ako at bumaling sa pagkain ko.
I sipped on my lemon juice when my phone rang.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Oo naman, Mars. Super twins kaya tayo. Magkadugtong ang pusod natin.

Natakpan ko ang bibig para pigilan ang tawa, napailing ako at mabilis na nag-reply.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Dugyot mo, bakla! HAHAHA!

From: Kumareng Tintin

Kiss na lang kita, sis. Tomboy na ako :*

Napailing ako, natatawang nagbayad nang matapos habang tumatayo para umalis. My
mind was set to go to the make up shop. I wanted to buy a new lipstick, gusto ko rin
bilhan ang Mars ko.

"Thank you for dining, Ma'am." They thanked me when I got passed them.

"Thanks," I said and smiled.

Napatigil pa ako nang may kumalapag, I shifted my gaze and saw the man wearing the
cap panicking, gusto na rin makatayo sa upuan.
Umiling ako at naglakad palayo.

"Sir, hindi pa po kayo bayad!" I heard the staff saying afterwards.

"Sorry, fuck..." The familiar voice said and it made me stop, bumaling ako muli at
nakitang pinapalibutan na ng mga staff ang lalaking naka-cap.

Aba, tatakas pa ata sa kinainan.

I went to the famous make up shop, kaunti lang ang tao kaya kaagad akong naasikaso
ng mga saleslady.

"Hi, Miss, what's yours?" She asked and I smiled.

"I wanted to check on your lipsticks, may bagong shade ba?" I asked.

"Here are the new shades, Ma'am. This way." She said and led me towards it.

"Here are our new arrivals, Ma'am." She said and I nodded, checking on the shades
from the tester.

"Good evening, Sir. Ano pong sa kanila?"

"U-uh, lipstick."
"Sa girlfriend po?" I heard the saleslady from the entrance.

I raised my hand, showing my wrist so I could compare the shades.

Mas gusto ko iyong medyo dark ang kulay at matapang. I always looked maldita that
way and they said I looked intimidating kaya sa tingin ko ay mas bagay sa akin ang
ganoong shades.

"Hmm, what do you think, Miss? Anong mas bagay?" Ipinakita ko sa saleslady ang
shades na nasa may wrist ko pero nakatingin s'ya kung saan.

"Miss?"

"Ay, sorry, Ma'am." Humagikhik s'ya. "Mayroon po kasing gwapo doon sa kabila,
tumitingin ng lipstick. Para ata sa girlfriends, nakakatuwa."

"Really? That's cute." I chuckled a bit, glancing at the part she's pointing and I was
stunned when I saw who was it.

Warren is looking at my direction, may hawak pa s'yang lipstick at nakita ko kung paano
manlaki ang mata n'ya at nag-iwas.

I saw him glanced on the mirror, opening the lipstick urgently and put it on his lips.

"Sir! Tester po—"

"Bakla! Sis!" I exclaimed but froze when I realized na lalaki pala s'ya sa eyes ng lipunan
kaya bigla kong binawi.
Shit, wrong move! Bawal ipahamak ang ka-sister!

Nangingiti ng alanganin, ibinigay ko sa saleslady ang lipstick bago lumapit kay kumare
na abala kakatingin sa salamin.

I smiled, mabilis na humawak sa balikat nito at napangiti.

"Oh, hi, baby!" I called and I felt Warren froze.

I chuckled. Mabilis na pinihit si Warren and I saw him startled while glancing at me.

Kalat pa ang lipstick n'ya kaya natatawang umayos ako ng tayo at ipinalibot ang braso
ko sa leeg n'ya.

Warren was stunned, I can feel the stares from the saleslady and I remembered na
natawag ko s'yang sis.

Nakakaloka, baka isipin ng mga saleslady at customers na kasapi ng pederasyon

talaga ang kumare ko. Ayokong unahan s'ya sa pagsiwalat ng kanyang sexual
orientation dahil wala akong right.

"Baby naman, hindi ka nagsasabing dito ka..." I muttered and he blinked.

"H-huh?"

"Super sweet ka talaga." I giggled and pinched his nose.

He blinked at me, still confused.

"Hindi ka man lang nagsabing talagang bibilhan mo ako ng lipstick, nagpaparinig lang
naman ako pero..." humagikhik ako. "Ang sweet mo talaga!"

He is blushing and confused, pinanlakihan ko s'ya ng mata at kinindatan at nakita kong

napalunok s'ya.

"W-well, I just..." Alanganin s'yang napangiti. "Thought you'd like it."

"Of course, oo..." I chuckled and touched his chest. "Ang lambing naman ng mahal ko."

"Y-yeah," he puffed a breath, parang mawawalan na ata ng malay. "Sa'yo lang ako
malambing, m-mahal."

"Uh-hmm. Chill, baby. I caught you but it's alright." I chuckled and touched his chest.
"Sa sobrang panic mo pa nakapag-lipstick ka, ah?"

"F-fuck," he muttered, was about to remove the lipstick on his lips when I stopped his
hand.

"Don't." I said and moved my face closer to Warren.

I met his black, pleasing eyes, kumalabog ang puso ko at wala sa sariling binasa ang
labi ko.
Namilog ang mata n'ya sa gulat nang mapansing magkalapit na ang mukha namin.

"Mars, may kasalanan ako." I muttered nervously.

"W-what..." He said in a low voice, lowering his head to take a glance of my lips.

"Uhm, uh... Nasigaw ko 'yong tawag sa'yo." I muttered.

"Na?" He asked, lowering his face more and I gulped.

"N-na bakla tapos sister," I said in a whisper. "Nakakahiya ako, I shouldn't voice out
your secret that fast and..."

"It's fine," he whispered, ang lipstick ay nasa labi pa rin. I can feel his breath on my
nose.

"No, hindi. Hindi ako pwedeng maging sister kung...kung mabilis kong ma-voice out ang
mga ganoon. I lack privacy."

"What do you want us to do, then?" He muttered, and I sighed, mas inilapit ang mukha
para bumulong.

"Patunayan nating lalaki ka." I said.

"H-huh?" He asked, medyo lumalayo na sa akin.

"Warren," I called.
"Bakla ba?" I heard one of the customers asked when they saw Warren pushed me a
bit.

"I-I don't think that's a good idea, baby." He said in a whisper.

I felt guilty again exclaiming his sexual preference like that when I saw his blushing
face. I'm positive he's embarrassed!

Siguradong ayaw na n'ya akong kaibigan pagkatapos nito!

What a useless kumare, Scira!

"Augustine," I called. "S-sige na. Mabilis lang, promise."

"B-but..."

"P-Please? Warren? Please?" I said in a small voice and he sighed.

"Gwapo sana, sayang at bakla." Narinig ko pang usapan sa gilid.

"Bakla nga ata, nirereject 'yong babae, eh."

"Alright, tell me how?" he said.

"R-remember, Mars, na mag-bff tayo. Walang meaning at walang talo-talo. H'wag ka

mandiri, please." I said and sighed, glanced at him and without even thinking, put my
hand back on his shoulder as I tiptoed to kiss him on the lips.
I felt him stiffened, his eyes are wide while staring at me and I felt my stomach churning
when I felt the warmth of his lips.

I heard whispers and gasps, "Judgmental ka, lalaki nga!" I heard the oldies talking.

I placed my hand on his shoulder more, kissing him a bit more and when I proved my
point, I moved away.

It was super awkward, malalim ang paghinga ko dahil sa malakas na kabog ng puso.
Dampi lang iyon pero nagwawala na ang puso ko. Damn, this isn't good!

I saw Warren's eyes, namumungay itong nakamasid sa akin. Mukhang gulat at tulala
lang doon.

"M-matamis 'yong lipstick mo, Warren baby, a-ah?" I laughed a bit after the whisper.

Nanatili s'yang nakatitig. Nanghina na ang tuhod ko dahil sa nangyari kaya mabilis
akong bumaling sa saleslady na gulat na gulat pa rin sa eksena.

"Uh, a-anong lipstick 'nung nasa labi ng boyfriend ko? G-gusto ko sana..." My voice
faded when a grip on my arm stopped me, mabilis akong napaharap kay Warren at
nagulat nang walang pagdadalawang-isip n'ya akong hinapit palapit sa katawan n'ya.

Our nose almost touch, my throat dried up while looking at him.

"M-mars?"

"I like it more when you call me that," he said in a baritone, low voice.
"C-call you what?" I asked and I saw him smirked.

"Augustine..." He said and I think my soul almost left my body in shock when he lowered
his lips and claimed mine again.

Kabanata 5

My lips protruded, the silence enveloped the cold atmosphere that I can feel myself
shivering.

"H-here..." my eyes shifted beside me and I almost jumped when I felt him putting
something on my back.

Mabilis ko 'yong sinulyapan at nagulat pa nang matantong isang denim jacket iyon.

"T-thanks," I muttered and I saw him nodded and looked somewhere again.

Nakaupo kami sa labas ng mall, sa bench kung saan ilang hakbang lang ay pwede ka
nang makalapit sa dagat. Malamig ang simoy ng hangin, nararamdaman ko ang
pagdapo sa balat ko pero dahil binigay n'ya sa'kin ang kanyang jacket ay kaagad na
nawala.

Still, it is awkward.

Kulang na lang ay marinig ko na ang kulisap sa sobrang tahimik, tanging mahihinang

hampas ng alon mula sa hindi kalayuan dalampasigan ang naririnig ko mula sa pwesto
naming dalawa.
After that awkward scene inside the store, we didn't talk. After he kissed me, ramdam ko
ang mabilis na kalabog ng puso ko. Well, I guess I liked his kisses too but is...I don't
know.

Hindi ako pumapatol sa tomboy, lalo na at sister ko pa.

Shit, Scira, what the hell are you thinking?!

I cleared my throat and glanced at Warren.

"Sis—"

"Mars—"

We both stopped when our eyes met. Kaagad na nag-init ang pisngi ko nang
masalubong ang mga mata n'ya. He looks shy and embarrassed, namumula rin ang
mukha kaya lumunok ako at nagsalita.

"I'm sorry if—"

"No, look, I am sorry." He said, shifting his weight so he could look at me. Hindi ako
nagsalita at nakitang may kung anong emosyon sa mga mata n'ya. "I just, you know,
didn't know what to do."

"H-huh?" I asked.

He licked his lower lip, lifting his fingers to brush his disheveled hair.
"When you turned your back, uhm..." he cleared his throat. "I-I heard the old ladies
saying I'm gay and I can't even kiss you kaya..."

"O-oh..." I muttered when I realized that. "Y-you only did that because of it?"

I don't know but I felt quite odd, parang hindi ko matanggap naa hinalikan n'ya ako dahil
sa narinig.

He stared at my eyes and slowly, he nodded.

"Sorry, Scira, if I made you uncomfortable, if after this and you don't want to be my
friend anymore, I will understand—"

"No!" I exclaimed and I saw him stopped and glanced at me.

"Wala kang kasalanan, Tintin, okay?" I said and he slowly nodded and puffed a breath.
"It's my fault, I called you out loud like that. I respect you, Warren, as a friend, as a
man—"

"W-woman, sis." Pahabol n'ya kaya napangiti ako at tumango.

"As a woman," I muttered and suddenly chuckled, "okay na?"

I saw his lips lifted, tumango s'ya kaya nagpatuloy ako.

"And I don't have any right to call you that way in public. Una, dahil hindi ka pa
naglalantad. That was so insensitive kaya I did kissed you." I said in a small voice.

"It's okay, baby..." I heard his low voice and my eyes lifted.

"What?"

"I mean..." he cleared his throat. "I understand, kaya mo pala ako tinawag na baby."

"I just did what I thought could save you, nakaka-disappoint na nga akong kaibigan." I
said and sighed.

"It's fine," he said and my lips protruded.

"It's not. Baka ayaw mo na akong kumare." I sulked.

"Scira..." he called.

"See?" I spatted. "Scira na ang tawag mo sa'kin!" I exclaimed.

"Hey, look at me." I shook my head and he moved a bit, slowly lifting my chin so he
could see my eyes. "I'm not mad, Mars."

I gulped while looking at his black eyes, kumalabog nanaman ang dibdib ko sa kaba at
hindi maintindihang dahilan kapag ganyan s'ya.

"R-really?"
"Is it you who should be mad at me, I kissed you. That was disrespectful to you as a
woman—"

"Sis, mag-sister tayo, okay lang." I said and I saw his lips protruded a bit.

"P-parang ang gara, Mars. Babae sa babae, t-tomboy?" He muttered and I immediately
laughed upon hearing him.

I saw his smile lifted when he saw me laughing. Nailing na hinampas ko ang balikat n'ya
at nakita ko ang pagkislap ng mata n'ya.

The awkward atmosphere faded, I bit my lip to suppress my laughters but I couldn't.
Warren is smirking, slowly moving to place a few strands of my fallen hair behind my
ear.

"K-kaloka ka, Mars." I muttered and laughed again.

He's chuckling, naiiling. I noticed how amusement played on his eyes while looking at
me and when I calmed down, I covered my mouth, ashamed of my loud mouth.

"S-sorry, Tintin. I'm just..."

"It's fine," he smiled. "You looked more radiant when you laugh and smile that way." He
said seriously and my cheeks flushed.

Bigla akong nahiya kaso baka biglang awkward nanaman kaya tumawa ako at pabirong
hinampas ang dibdib n'ya.
"Hala, si kumare, pa-fall!" I exclaimed and his laugher roared.

"Hmm, am I?" He said in amusement and I laughed and nodded.

"O-oo kaya! Talo mo pa magpakilig mga ex ko!" I exclaimed and I saw him stopped.

His forehead creased a bit, he became quite serious that I stopped and looked at him.

"Mars?"

"Your exes..." he muttered. "What are they like?"

"Hmm," I smiled. "Bakit? May bet ka?" I teased but he scoffed.

"No way, I'm just curious." He said, slowly taking my hand and I saw how his finger
touched the part of my wrist where I tried the shades of lipstick earlier.

"They're good, they're great." I said, remembering it. "Well, I dated them because mom
said they have a good family, I always wanted to please her, she's my role model kaya
kapag sinabi n'yang magandang pamilya iyon at kung may magbibigay sa'kin ng interes
mula sa pamilya, I will grab the chance and mom would be happy. The others, well, I
genuinely just like them but..."

I sighed.

"You know, after a week or a month, lalabas ang ugali nila. They would call me a freak."
"Freak?" he stopped and glanced at me.

"Control freak, Mars." I said and looked at his eyes. "They say, mas inuuna ko ang
pamilya ko kaysa sa kanila."

"Of course, family comes first." He said eagerly and I smiled.

"'Di ba?" I muttered happily and grinned. "Hindi nila ma-gets 'yon, Mars, kaya inis ako.
Mabuti ka pa, naku, magpakalalaki ka na ulit para jowain na lang kita." I joked.

"Lalaki naman ako," he said in a husky voice and I froze and glance at him.

"H-huh?" I saw him stared at my eyes before smirking.

"Patola, sis!" He laughed and pinched my nose. "Nabiktima ka, ano?" He said and I
laughed and punched his arms.

"Aba, aba, nag-jo-joke ka na?" I hissed, pabirong sumuntok ulit kaya natatawang hinuli
n'ya ang kamay ko.

"Well..." He smirked.

"Ikaw talaga, Tintin!" I chuckled and continued punching him playfully. Tinusok ko ang
tagiliran n'ya, I saw him jumped a bit ang glared at me.

"Hmm, may kiliti ka, ah?" I muttered and tickled him again.
"Shit." He groaned in a hoarse voice and I laughed, having my own share of fun while
tickling him when he caught both of my hands, pushed me a bit on the bench and my
eyes widen in shock when he moved his face closer to mine, our nose almost touching.

The weird thumping on my chest came back, nawala na iyon sa asaran naming dalawa
pero bumalik ngayong magkalapit nanaman ang mukha namin.

Warren Augustine Miranda really is a gift from God, a gift for women. His black eyes are
serious yet shining a bit from the light reflected from the post, he has red thin lips,
pointed nose and strong jaw. I saw small whiskers growing on his chin and jaw, hindi
pansinin kapag malayo pero kapag ganito kalapit ay kitang-kita.

He moved his face a bit, glancing at my lips and I felt like I'll hyperventilate in any
moment.

It was as if his lips have gravity, pulling me closer to it. Kumakalabog ang puso ko
gayong ganito kami kalapit sa isa't-isa.

I can still remember the taste of his lips, how it felt when it touched mine. I can still
remember the warmth...

"Baka naman mahal mo na ako n'yan, sis?" My eyes widen when he smirked with his
soft voice.

"H-hindi, ah!" I exclaimed, pushing him away and he laughed at me, shaking his head
before stealing a kiss on my cheek.

"Uh-hmm," he hummed.
I glared at him, kicking his feet before touching my cheek he kissed.

"Chansing ka, ah!" Sita ko pero natatawang kumindat s'ya sa akin.

"Let me remind you who kissed who first?" He teased and I pouted, muli s'yang sinipa
kaya natatawang nailing s'ya.

Baklang 'to! Kaloka! Parang heartthrob noong kabataan magsalita!

"Alam mo, kung hindi ko lang nakitang nag-wa-walling ka sa Casa Amara noon iisipin
kong lalaki ka." I muttered and he smirked at me and tilted his head.

"Lalaki ako," he said straightforwardly but I just rolled my eyes.

"Patola ka, Tintin. Suntukan na lang, oh?" I spat.

"Halikan na lang." He said and winked. Natulala nanaman ako, nang makitang natatawa
nanaman ang itsura n'ya ay iritadong pinalo ko s'ya at pinagsusuntok.

"Tomboy ka na talaga, sis!" I hissed and smacked him.

Warren walked me back to the where I'm staying, nangingiting sumulyap ako sa kanya
at mahina pang suminghap nang makitang nagulo ang buhok n'ya dahil sa hangin.

Warren, Warren, bakit hindi na lang tayo talo?

Naka-sideview s'ya sa'kin, kita ko ang tangos ng ilong n'ya habang nakamasid kung
saan kaya kumapit ako sa braso n'ya.

"Gwapo mo talaga, Tintin." I said and he glanced at me and laughed.

"I'm flattered, sis." He said in a small voice, touching his chest and we laughed at that.

"Saan ka nag-s-stay? May work ka rin, right?" I asked and he nodded.

"I'm staying at Casa Amara," he said and I smiled and nodded.

"Wait," I stopped when I realized something, muli akong bumaling sa kanya at

nagtanong. "Casa Amara, is it the same with the one in Manila?"

"Yeah, just another branch." He smiled and my mouth parted.

"Wow, small world." I muttered and he fixed the jacket on my shoulder before touching
my head.

"You should go inside, Architect." He said and I took the jacket, ipapabalik n asana sa
kanya pero mabilis n'ya akong pinigilan.

"Take it," he said and smiled.

"But..."
"Give it back when we see each other again," he said and I lifted my eyes and glance at
him.

"Kailan naman? It's not that we'll see each other again." I said and shook my head.

"Hindi mo sure," he said and my forehead creased.

"Anong—" I stiffened when he leaned in to give me a peck on the lips.

My eyes widen, mabilis kong tinakpan ang labi ko, gulat na nakatingin sa kanya at
nakita kong lumunok s'ya at humawak sa batok.

"Y-you..." I pointed him.

"B-bet ko 'yong lipstick mo, Mars. Patikim u-ulit." He chuckled nervously and I screamed
and smacked him.

"Augustine!" I shouted but he immediately run away from me.

Manyak ang tomboy kong sister. Isinubsob ko ang mukha ko sa unan habang tumitili
pagkarating ko sa kwarto.

I can't believe it! He kissed me again!

Nagmamadali kong kinuha ang phone nang tumunog at nakita ko kaagad ang pangalan
n'ya.
I opened it.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Gusto ko talaga 'yong shade at flavor n'yang lipstick mo, sis. Anong name?"

I puffed a breath, hindi s'ya sinagot at natulala sa kisame ng kwarto.

Perfect package na sana si Warren kaso hindi kami talo. Sayang.

But he kissed me! Is it a sign na pwede na s'yang maging lalaki?

"Oh, damn you, Scira. Stop!" I exclaimed and slapped my cheek.

Hindi pwede. Hindi pwede! Calm down, self, nababaliw ka lang. It isn't possible you'll
like Warren that way, right?

And for pete's sake, it wasn't even my first kiss!

I took my phone and messaged him.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Kung gagawin kita lalaki, baks, okay lang?

Moments later, my phone rang again for a message, dali-dali ko iyong binuksan at
binasa.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Kung kapalit ba naman ang halik mo, bakit hindi.

"Shit..." I muttered, Uminit ang pisngi ko kaya napatili ako at binitawan ang phone para
suntukin ang unan ko.

This is bad. This is freaking bad!

First, he's gay. Second, we just met! Bukod doon sa mga eksena naming sa Casa
Amara at panaka-nakang pagkikita!

You are Architect Scira Valderama, mapili ka sa lalaki, 'di ba? Bakit mo crush ang
kumare mo?

My phone rang, mabilis kong kinuha iyon at kaagad na binasa.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Joke lang, Mars. Boylet din ang hanap ko. Bet ko lang talaga 'yong flavor ng lipstick mo.

Instead na maging masaya, I felt down. I felt the pain in my chest after reading that kaya
napapikit ako at nilagay sa side table ang phone.
This isn't you, Scira.

The next morning, I got ready for the meeting with the head engineer from the other
firm. Inayos ko ang hikaw ko habang nakikipag-usap kay Mom sa video call.

She called to ask how am I doing.

Pagkatapos ng tawag, kumuha ako ng lotion para ilagay sa pulsuhan at palad ko. I took
my perfume and sprayed some on my neck and dress before I go.

Inayos ko ang hand bag ko, kipkip ko sa kabilang braso ang laptop at nang makababa
ay kaagad akong sinalubong ng secretary ni Mr. Aurelio.

"This way to the office, Architect." She muttered.

I smiled and followed her. I walked with my chin up, some greeted me and I smiled in
return pero kaagad ding mawawalang ang ngiti kapag lagpas sa kanila.

I slowly fixed my hair on my shoulder, it is ironed straight, like usual. Hindi naman
pormal na meeting pa kasama ang buong team kaya hindi ako masyadong namili ng
susuotin.

A blue pastel colored dress is fine and with my heels.

"This way, Architect." The secretary smiled before opening the door and let me in.

Pumasok ako, kaagad na nakita si Mr. Aurelio na nakaupo sa swivel, sa harapan n'ya
ay ang isang matipunong lalaking nakatalikod sa akin.
He's wearing black dress shirt folded up to his elbows and slacks, kumunot ang noo ko
dahil pamilyar sa akin ang kanyang likod.

"Architect Valderama, glad you're here." Mr. Aurelio greeted by my eyes are fixed to the
man. "Anyway, I want you to meet the head engineer for this project, Engineer
Miranda."

The man stood, shifted his gaze and I almost gasped when I saw who was it.

"Warren..." I muttered and I saw his lip lifted for a smile before offering his hand.

"Nice meeting you, Architect Valderama." He said and still shocked, I accepted his hand
for a hand shake.

"N-nice meeting you too, Engineer Miranda." I muttered and he smiled and squeezed
my hand.

Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala, tulala ako sa mukha ni Warren at kung hindi lang
tumikhim si Mr. Aurelio para kunin ang atensyon naming dalawa ay hindi kami
magbibitaw.

I cleared my throat, immediately flashed a smile at Mr. Aurelio.

"Sit, Architect." He said and offered the seat beside Warren's.

Naglakad ako, siguro ay sa gulat kung sino ang head engineer ay medyo tumigilid ang
lakad ko pero mabilis akong nahawakan ni Warren.
"Careful," he muttered softly, touching my waist.

"T-thanks." I said, walked with him and he assisted me to sit on my place afterwards.

"So..." Mr. Aurelio smiled, inilahad ang kamay n'ya at sumulyap sa aming dalawa.

"Do you two...know each other?" He asked, I felt Warren's stares beside me and I
cleared my throat and nodded.

"Yeah,"

"Very well..." He smiled. "But I saw how surprise you are, hindi ba nasabi ni Engr.
Miranda sa'yo na ditto s'ya?"

I glanced at Warren and saw his serious eyes at me. I cleared my throat and shook my
head.

"I believe Engr. Miranda forgot to mention it the last time," I said and smiled.

Mr. Aurelio glanced at Warren, back to me. I know that stare, ang tingin kapag mag-
uumpisa ka nang manukso.

"Are you two—"

"Let's start with the meeting?" I said, straightening my back and flashed a smile. "Sir?
Engineer?"

"Alright," Mr. Aurelio smiled when he noticed my uneasiness. "Let's start."

Naging abala ang usapan. It was awkward, remembering last night.

Ang OA ko siguro to think na nakakasakit ang sinabi ni Warren when in the first place, I
knew he's gay.

He's probably not interested in me?

"What do you think, Architect Valderama?" I almost jumped when I heard Warren
speaking.

"Y-yes?" I blinked, didn't quite get what he'd said.

He smiled and showed me the file he's holding.

"My team suggested this design for the outdoor pools and bar, what do you think?" He
asked.

"O-oh..." I cleared my throat, took the papers and looked at it.

He quietly stared at me, hindi ko man s'ya nakikita ay dama ko ang titig n'ya. He looks
worried but I didn't look at him, instead, I focused my attention to the paper he gave me.

I'm overreacting... Damn, I think I am!

I glanced at him and caught him staring at me seriously. I flashed a forced smile and
when his forehead creased, my awkward smile faded.

I cleared my throat and lowered my head back on the paper.

Too much for pretending, Scira.

"This is great, uhm, we can discuss this further with the team in the meeting." I said and
gave it back to him.

His eyes lingered at me for a few moment kaya napasulyap din ako.

"Engineer?" Mr. Aurelio called kaya napabaling s'ya roon.

He looks great in shirt but I never expect he would look great more in a formal attire.
Hapit sa katawan n'ya ang dress shirt, kitang-kita ang hubog ng katawan at braso n'ya.

I have no say with my exes' physical aspects but Warren is...I don't know, he's attractive
and darkly handsome.

Crush ko s'ya.

I froze with the realization. Napakurap ako at muling napasulyap sa lalaking abala sa
pakikipag-usap. He's conversing professionally, buo ang boses.

Oh, shit? Crush ko ang Mars ko!

I am screaming internally, hindi matanggap na bet ko ang kumare ko. Nag-uusap sila
pero tulala lang ako. I am overreacting because I like him.

That fast?! You're freaking screwed, Valderama!

Natapos ang meeting na parang wala ata akong nai-ambag, naglahad ng kamay si Mr.
Aurelio na kaagad kong tinanggap.

"It's nice working with the best in this field," he smiled.

I smiled humbly too, nakita kong tinapik n'ya ang balikat ni Warren.

"You can roam around the place after, sulitin na ang mga natitirang oras bago ang
trabaho. We have a beach nearby. Architect." Mr. Aurelio called kaya bumaling ako sa
kanya.

"Engr. Miranda stays around here, madalas ito rito kaysa sa Maynila kaya alam na n'ya
ang pasikot." He smiled and looked at Warren. "Well, maybe you can tour our Architect
around?"

I saw Warren glanced at me, his lips lifted and nodded.

"Sure," he said.

Rest in peach, Scira. RIP.

Diretso ang labas ko sa pintuan habang nakasunod sa akin si Warren.

"Scira," he called.

Hindi ko muna s'ya pinansin, mas bumilis pa ang lakad ko.

"Scira, where are you going? Let's talk." He said.

"Uh, m-may gagawin kasi ako, Mars, a-alam mo na, ayaw kong mamasyal muna." I said
and walked faster.

I can hear his quick footsteps behind me.

"Face me, then. Iniiwasan mo ba ako?"

My heart quickened, tumigil ako sa paglalakad at hinarap s'ya. I saw him stop from his
tracks, kunot ang noon ang harapin ko s'ya.

"B-bakit naman kita iiwasan?" I laughed a bit. "Ikaw talaga, Mars, kung ano-anong—"

"You didn't text me back last night." He said.

"Nawalan ako ng load," I pretended and smiled at him.

His forehead creased, his mouth parted a bit to talk but I cut him off.

"Bye na, Mars. Kita na lang tayo bukas." I said, smiled and turned my back.

Kinakabahan at mabilis akong naglakad palayo.

I need to sort my feeling out, hindi naman tamang magustuhan ko s'ya, 'di ba? Kahit
crush lang?
That's a forbidden rule in the federation!

Mabilis akong naglakad palayo sa kanya, papunta sa escalator papaakyat, nagwawala

pa ang puso sa kaba pero sa gulat ko ay may naramdaman akong hawak sa braso ko.

I gasped, cursed when in just a snap, I am pinned on the side of the barricade. My eyes
widened more when I saw who was it.

Warren's black eyes stared at me.

"M-mars?" I called and he licked his lower lip, itutulak ko sana s'ya palayo pero naitukod
n'ya na ang kamay sa pagitan ko.

He's tall, kahit naka-heels ako ay kailangan ko pang mag-angat ng tingin para makita ng
buo ang mukha n'ya.

"What's the matter? Nagmamadali kasi ako para uhm, may gagawin." I said.

"You're avoiding me," he concluded.

"H-hindi, ah!" My eyes widen. "Bakit kita iiwasan? Mars?"

He licked his lower lip, glancing down at me.

"Is it because of the kiss?" He asked and my throat dried up, nakita n'ya ang reaksyon
ko kaya napatango s'ya. "It is."
Hindi ako nakaimik, I saw how his eyes turned a bit softer.

"Is it that bad you thought of avoiding me?" He said in a low voice.

"W-what?" My eyes widen.

Baligtad, Mars! Hindi bad! It is that great that I have a freaking crush on you now!

Hindi ako nakasagot, natulala lang sa sinabi n'ya.

"Damn, I'm so aggressive, hmm..." he whispered in the air. "I shouldn't have done that.
I'm sorry, natakot kita."

"I..." he sighed audibly. "I understand if you don't want to be friends with me, anymore."

Hindi ako nakagalaw, tulala pa habang nakamasid sa kanya at napakurap pa nang

humakbang s'ya paatras at marahan akong bitawan.

"Pasensya na, Architect." He said, his eyes are sad and something tugged painfully
inside my chest while looking at him.

He glanced at me sadly before he shifted his body to walk away and I panicked, mabilis
kong hinawakan ang braso n'ya pabalik at hinila s'ya pabalik.

"Scira..." he called when he saw me pulled him but I lifted my head, cupped his cheek
and pressed a kiss on his lips.
He was stunned, kita ko ang panlalaki ng mata n'ya sa ginawa ko.

Gulat sa ginawa, lumayo ako mula sa kanya pero mabilis n'yang sinapo ang batok ko at
inilapit ako muli sa kanya.

He pulled my waist, kissing my lips deeply. I felt him bit my lower lip and I found myself
parting it, kissing him back.

He moved away, halos naghahabol na ng hininga nang maghiwalay. Our eyes met and
I gasped when his finger went on my lower lip.

He caressed it softly with his thumb, magkalapit pa rin ang mukha naming dalawa at
dama ko ang hininga n'ya sa may labi ko.

"This is bad," he said in a low voice and I gulped and nodded.

"Y-you're right," I muttered. "M-masama nga, Tintin."

His other hand went on my cheek, slowly brushing my hair away before tucking it
behind my ear.

"Really...really bad, kumare. Fuck, I'm really a lesbian, right?" He said and cupped my
cheek for another kiss.

Kabanata 6
"W-we shouldn't do it again." I muttered.

"Y-yeah, I agree. We shouldn't." He said.

Natahimik nanaman kami. I still can't process how did I had the guts to kiss my kumare,
that is very...very wrong!

Awkward looks are given by us by the people passing by, paniguradong nakita ang
harutan naming dalawa kanina. We only stopped when we we're already running out of
breath. Doon din kaming dalawa natauhan.

My back is resting on the barricade near the escalator while he's in front of me with his
arms at the both side of me. He's lowering his head, I can hear his loud breath intake.

In my years living, I've never make out with my exes in public. We only kissed in private!
In cars, bars, if alone, somewhere like that but never in my whole life I'll do something
like this in public! At sa kumare ko pa!

"U-uhm, sige, Warren, alis na ako." I said, slowly pushing him away.

He took a step back, his black eyes watched me intently and I looked away.

"Kumain ka na?" He suddenly asked and I lifted my head and watched his black eyes
glance at my face. I noticed his still swollen lips, I can't believe ganyan 'yan!

Shit, Architect Valderama? Wild kisser?

"H-huh?"
"Have you eaten?" he asked again and my throat dried up the moment he raised his
hand to put a few strands of my hair behind my ear.

"No," I answered.

His forehead creased, nakita kong napasulyap s'ya sa orasan at seryoso akong
tinitigan.

"It's late, you should have eaten breakfast." He retorted, buo ang boses at ang gwapo
ng pagkakasalubong ng kilay kaya kinilabutan ako.

"B-baka ako ang tomboy?" I muttered and he blinked.

"What?"

I cleared my throat, hindi inaasahang mabibighani sa sister ko kaya umiling na lang ako
at alanganing ngumiti.

"What I mean is...I don't eat breakfast that much, I'm on my diet." I explained, or lied,
perhaps.

I'm actually hungry right now.

"You can always have your diet but make sure—"

"A-ayos lang talaga." I explained and smiled awkwardly. "I just...ano, babalik lang ako
sa room ko."
Tumalikod ako habang kunot ang kanyang noo at pinagmamasdan ako, diretso ang
lakad ko paalis pero natigilan nang tumunog ang sikmura ko.

What the fuck? Tummy? Why the heck are you making that sound!

Nilingon ko si Warren, kunot ang noo n'ya, nakahalukipkip at nagmamasid sa akin,

mukhang narinig kaya ngumiti ako.

"I'm not hungry," I chuckled nervously.

My stomach made a sound again, lumaki ang mata ko roon at napahawak sa t'yan at
nilingon s'ya.

"Hindi ka nga gutom," he said, raising his brow while staring at me.

"Uhm, well, may mga foods sa room ko." I said and stood straight. "But the thing is..."

I looked at him and saw his curious face. "what?"

"I can't cook." I laughed nonchalantly.

His lips lifted, I thought he'll mock me or something but to my shock, he walked towards
me, grabbed my wrist and pulled me on the elevator.

Gulat pa rin ako pero sumama ako sa kanya, to my shock, I saw him pressed the
number where my floor is.
"Oh, how did you know—"

"I stay in the room beside yours," he said and my eyes widen.

"H-huh? But I thought you're staying at Casa Amara." My forehead creased.

"Well, I work here now so, I'll stay here." He said and I nodded.

We're quiet in the elevator, kita ko and diretsong titig n'ya sa repleksyon sa elevator, he
looks manly and he's well-built too kaya parang nakakagulat na hindi babae ang gusto
n'ya.

The elevator opened and a group of girls entered.

Nagtatawanan sila pero nang makita ang nasa loob ng elevator ay natahimik. The girls
gazes were immediately fixed at Warren.

I saw one girl smiled and cleared his throat.

"Hello, Engineer Miranda, right?" The woman said and my forehead creased when it got
Warren's attention.

His black eyes stared at them and nodded.

"Yes?" He asked in a full voice.

My brow lifted when the two girls giggle behind the woman, nagkukurutan pa roon.

"Well, I'm Macey." She smiled. "I don't know if you remember me but I am the daughter
of Poncio Perez."

Warren's forehead creased a bit, as if remembering.

"PRP commercial building," the woman said. "Miranda firm made it happen, remember?
You're with your cousin, Engineer Vioxx?"

I saw how Warren nodded, as if remembering it.

"Oh, I see." I saw how his lips lifted a bit for a small smile.

"Sorry, I just can't remember that much." Warren smiled.

"Well, it's fine," she smiled. "it's Macey." She offered her hand.

"Nice meeting you, Miss Perez." Warren said humbly and accepted her hand.

My forehead creased, nairita bigla sa nakikita.

What am I? Air?

Hello! May maganda rito kayong kasama!

"These are my friends," Macey smiled and presented her friends. "These are—"

"Augustine," I said in a small voice and I saw how Warren froze. Mabilis na napasulyap
sa akin at ngumuso ako.

I pulled my wrist away from him, nakita kong sinundan n'ya iyon ng tingin pero mabilis
akong kumapit sa braso n'ya.

"Hungry," I said in a small voice.

He looked at me with such curiosity in his eyes and I blinked and smiled cutely.

"I'm super hungry, Tin. I wanna eat." I said.

"Alright, we're gonna eat, hmm?" He said, slowly lifting his hand to touch my cheek.

"Okay," I smiled, resting my head on his arms and glanced at the girls.

I saw Macey scoffed and I smiled a bit.

"Well, Engineer, as I was saying..." she smiled and offered her friends. "These are—"

"Aww," I muttered, touching my stomach.

"What's the matter?" That immediately caught Warren's attention.

My lips protruded a bit and I touched my stomach more. "A-aray..." inarte ko.
"Scira," he called. "what's the matter? Tell me..." he said eagerly and touched my elbow.

"Masakit ang stomach ko," I said, nag-iinarte pero alam kong effective dahil nasa akin
na ang kanyang atensyon.

"Tss, I told you to eat, right? H'wag muna 'yang diet-diet na 'yan." He scolded in a soft
voice and I snorted, shaking my head.

"S-sorry, okay naman dati pero..."

"I'll cook you food, okay?" He said and I nodded, still pretending my stomach is aching.
Napahawak pa ako sa braso n'ya.

"Shit," he cursed hardly, akala ko ay aalalayan ako pero sa gulat ay basta na lang n'ya
akong binuhat.

"W-what..." my voice faded when he carried me on his arms. Napakapit ako sa leeg n'ya
sa gulat at nanlaki ang mata.

"Warren?" I called.

"Hold on tight, malapit na tayo." He said and focused his attention in carrying me.

My heart thumped, gulat na gulat pa rin sa ginawa n'ya. I saw the women staring at us
with their wide eyes. Macey is frowning.
The elevator made a sound, napansin kong nasa tamang floor na kami kaya muli akong
umarte. Warren carried me, nakakapit ako sa batok n'ya habang papalabas kami sa
elevator.

He looks serious and eager to bring me out, habang papalabas ay napasulyap ako sa
mga babaeng nakasimangot sa akin, they were eyeing me like I'm some kind of eye
sore or something.

Macey raised her brow and slowly, with the triumphant look in my eyes, I smirked at
them.

"Mine." I mouthed and I saw their mouths parted.

Sumarado ang elevator na mukha silang talunan sa loob, I am laughing internally,

nangingisi pa ako roon nang mahuli ni Warren ang mukha ko.

"A-aww..." Inarte kong muli.

Sa gulat ko ay natawa s'ya, kumunot ang noo ko at sumimangot.

"Masakit ang t'yan ko, tatawa-tawa ka r'yan?" I hissed and he licked his lower lip. Ang
kaninang pagmamadali sa paglalakad ay naging malumanay na.

"Saan banda ang masakit?" He asked and I lowered one of my hand and pointed my
stomach.

"Here." I said.
He suddenly laughed and I frowned. "what's funny?" I hissed, hinampas ko ang dibdib
n'ya kaya napailing s'ya at inayos ako sa bisig n'ya.

"Nothing," he said, walking in a relaxed way now, a hidden smile is on his lips.

"Masakit nga ang t'yan ko!" I hissed and he looked down at me and smiled.

"I know, baby, I know." He said and my heart thumped.

"Baby ka riyan!" I hissed and smacked his chest. "Hoy, Mars! Excuse me pero—"

"You don't look sick to me," he said and my mouth parted.

"Masakit ang t'yan ko!" I exclaimed. "Dito, dito at ditto!" I pointed the side of my stomach
and I saw how his eyes brightened with amusement.

"Ang dami naman," he commented nonchalantly and I hissed.

"Eh, bakit ba? Masakit, eh? Bakit mas magaling ka pa sa t'yan ko?!" Iritadong tanong
ko.

"Sshh, calm down..." He cooed like I'm a baby and my eyes widen.

"I'm not a freaking baby, Augustine!" I exclaimed.

"Aren't you?" A playful smile left his lips as he glanced at me.

"Yes! I'm a full-grown woman! I am independent—"

"Yet can't cook?" he teased and I threw him my sharp glare.

"You jerk! Mars kita pero—"

"Calm down, Mars. I won't tease you more." He said. "Hush now, little girl..."

"Aba't... I said I'm not a baby!"

"You are," he said.

"You...sige nga, kanino naman—"

"Mine." He muttered and I froze.

My heart thumped, parang nagwawala ang puso ko habang nakatingin sa kanya at

napansin ko rin ang pamumula ng pisngi n'ya. He cleared his throat and licked his lower
lip.

"W-what..."

"Mars, pa-open naman ng room mo." He said in a soft voice and immediately, I came
back to my reverie.

Of course, Scira. Of course! That's your sister!

"O-oh," I immediately took my key card from my bag and hugged my laptop more.
Inilapit n'ya ako sa may lock ko kaya mabilis kong naabot at nabuksan.

When it opened, we immediately went inside. Tumikhim ako at mabilis na kinalabit s'ya.

"B-baba mo na ako," I said softly and he glanced at me and went on the couch to lower
me slowly.

Nang mapaupo ay kinuha n'ya ang hand bag at ang laptop na hawak ko para ilagay sa
lamesa at naupo sa tabi ko.

"What do you wanna eat?" he asked and I glanced at his eyes and saw him staring
softly at me.

"H-hindi naman talaga masakit ang t'yan ko," I confessed and sighed.

I thought he'll scold me but instead, he smiled.

"Well, I thought it's true at first but it's fine..." he said and brushed my hair a bit. "So,
what do you like to eat?"

"You're...not mad?" I said in a small voice and he chuckled and shook his head.

"No."

"Why?" I asked and he pinched my cheek a bit.

"Why not?"

"Well..." I shrugged. "I don't want to compare but this is new, I mean, I tried being
maarte like this in one or two of my exes and they said I shouldn't act childishly so, I
started acting more mature."

Habang nagkekwento ako ay nakita kong kunot ang noo n'ya, halatang iritado na kaya
ngumuso ako.

"So, why aren't you mad?" I asked and he sighed and tapped my chin.

"Simply because I am not them, Scira." He said. "I would never stop you from acting as
you please, it's your decision to make, not mine."

My heart swelled, napangiti ako at kinagat ang labi ko.

"Thanks, Tintin..." I said in a small voice and he chuckled and tilted his head.

"Anything for my baby,"

My heart thumped, lumaki ang mata ko at pinalo s'ya.

"M-maharot ka, Mars!" I groaned and his laughter roared. Hinuli n'ya kamay ko pero
mas pinalo ko pa s'ya.
"Magkumare tayo! This is prohibited—" I gasped when he was too quick to pinned my
body on the sofa. He is kneeling a bit while towering me, cornering me like I'm his
property.

Lumunok ako. "M-mars..."

"Well, what can we do now?" he said.

"Y-you shouldn't call me baby! That's for mag-jowa only!" I said with conviction and I
saw his eyes glisten.

"Well...what should I call you?" He raised his brow.

"W-we have to be civil and uhm, professional! K-kasi 'di ba, we're walking together!"

"Hmm," he hummed, I can feel his breath touching my nose and I'm near
hyperventilating.

"I-isa pa, magkumare tayo and—"

"How about I call you Ma'am?" he asked and my heart hammered when his voice
sounded so husky and manly.

"W-well, uh, pwede rin. Magkumare man tayo, we're still workmates kaya that's quite
good—"

"Let me prepare your foods, Ma'am, hmm?" he muttered and kissed the tip of my nose.
I was frozen in shock, nalaglag ang panga ko sa ginawa n'ya at ngumisi s'ya bago
walang hirap na tumayo. He turned his back at me, smirking and unbuttoning the first
few buttons of his dress shirt.

"B-bastos ka, Sir, ah!" I exclaimed and stood.

He looked at me and he smirked.

"Natotomboy kasi ako sa'yo, Mars." He said in a soft voice, putting his hair jokingly at
the back of his ear.

"Tintin!" I exclaimed loudly when he ran. "Y-you! Come back here, Sir!" I hissed at nang
maabutan ay pinektusan ko na.

I couldn't say anything with his cooking, habang kinakain ko ang masarap na rice na
niluto n'ya ay nangingiti ako.

I don't know what is this called but the rice is color yellow, maybe because of butter?
May hotdogs, corn, carrots and green peas din doon.

"How is it?" he asked while preparing a fresh lemon juice in front of me.

I smiled and gave him a thumbs-up.

"11/10." I commented and he laughed and shook his head.

"Well, I can cook you more...if you like?" He said and I grinned and nodded.

"Oo naman, total naman ay dito ka na rin, madali na lang mangapit-bahay." Tawa ko.

He took a glass and transferred juice from the pitcher, tahimik ko s'ya pinagmamasdang
gawin iyon at nang magtagpo ang mata namin ay ngumiti.

"Thanks, sis." I said and smiled.

He didn't answer me, instead he walked beside me kaya nilingon ko s'ya.

"Why?"

"Where's your ponytail?" he asked and I lifted my hand and showed it to him. He took it
and I was confused at first pero napangiti na lang nang pumunta s'ya sa likod ko.

He brushed my hair with his fingers, slowly lifting it for a ponytail.

"Wow, ang galing mo naman magtali ng buhok, Mars." I commented.

"Well, mahilig kasi akong mag-hairstyle noong bata pa. Tinatalian ko mga barbie ko."
He said and I glanced at him and saw him smirked.

"Oh? Same, sis!" I giggled. "I always tie Ate Clyte's hair! Pati si Kuya Deion, nagagalit
nga dati kasi I always put his hair in cute hairstyles pero hinahayaan lang ako!"

He chuckled, pulling a stool to sit beside me.

"Well, I won a hairstyle competition when I'm still studying. Noong bata ako, I always
play bahay-bahayan." Bida n'ya.

"Oh, me too! Wala ka sa'kin, sa garden namin, noong bata kami may tree house! Dad
put he so we won't go out our house! Palagi ring may tea party with my dolls!" I giggled.

"'Yon lang ang laro n'yo?" he asked and I nodded. "Sus, wala ka pala sa'kin." Nguso
n'ya kaya ibinaba ko ang kutsara bago nilingon s'ya.

"Oh, eh anong laro pa? Astig sa'kin, may tree house pa. Ikaw? Sige nga." Hamon ko.

I saw him smirked, glanced at me and raised his brow.

"Mother ako sa Chinese garter," he grinned. "Rule, dead mother, dead all." Bida n'ya.

I bursted out laughing, pinalo ko s'ya at natatawang umiwas s'ya bago tumakbo sa
kabilang side ng counter.

I finished eating after two cups of rice, medyo hindi ko pa tanggap na wala na talaga
akong pag-asang mag-diet ngayong araw kaya nang maghugas ng plato si Warren ay
pumunta ako sa terrace para magpahangin.

I touched my hair he tied and smiled, inangat ko ang lemon juice na may straw at
payong pa at nangingiting sumimsim mula roon.

If I talk to Warren regarding our kiss, would it change something?

I just met him yet, I started feeling comfortable. We already kissed, mukhang gustong-
gusto rin naming dalawa kaya hindi ko alam.

He's gay. We're friends. Is it possible?

I sighed.

"Lalim ng hugot, Ma'am, hmm?" I suddenly heard a voice at napangiti ako nang makita
si Warren.

"Tintin," I called.

"Sha-sha," he grinned, hindi ko alam bigla akong natawa at inilahad ang kamao ko.

He saw it and he laughed, immediately accepted it for a fist bump and spoke.

"Kambal ang pusod natin, tayo ang..."

"Super twins!" We exclaimed, bumping our hips together and our laughter roared in the
air.

Natatawang lumayo ako at mabilis s'yang tumabi sa'kin. He's holding a glass of lemmon
juice too, may kulay dilaw na paying na maliit.

"Oh, parehas tayo!" I cheered and showed it to him.

Ngumuso s'ya at nagulat ako nang kunin n'ya ang payong sa baso ko at ipinagpalit ang
amin.

"Hoy!"

"Sige na, Mars. Favorite color ko pink." He said and my mouth parted and I chuckled.

"Oh, okay." I smiled and let him change our cute mini umbrellas.

We rested quietly, staring at the view below us.

Unlike the other units in the cities, this one's more peaceful. Kaunting hotel lang ang
makikita sa kalayuan at pulos mga puno, I saw the tall coconut trees, marami na ring
bunga. I can smell the fresh air and in our place, we can see the vast sea.

"Ang ganda dito, ano?" I said.

Nang hindi s'ya lumingon ay sumulyap ako sa kanya at nakitang tahimik s'yang
nakatitig.

His eyes are deep, kumikislap pa ng bahagya dahil sa araw. His hair is quite disheveled
because of the wind coming our way.

"Sir?" I called.

He tried hiding his smile and nodded. "Sobrang ganda." He said, his eyes remained on
me.
My heart thumped, napatitig ako sa kanya at nakita kong seryoso at hindi pa rin
natatanggal ang tingin n'ya.

"Tin?" I suddenly called.

"Hmm?"

I cleared my throat, heaving a deep sigh, kumukuha ng lakas ng loob para sa tanong
ko.

"About the kiss..." I said and I saw his eyes brightened a bit.

He licked his lower lip, glancing at me before placing his glass on the table beside him.

"I like it," he suddenly said and I froze.

"H-huh?"

"I like the kiss we shared," he muttered and glanced at me. "I don't wanna scare you
because we're friends and magkumare but..." he gulped.

"I love how your lips taste like," he said.

My cheeks flushed. "W-well, I do like it too." I confessed.

He was stunned for a while but a smirk left his lips after that.
"Sa pederasyon, may batas." He said and my forehead creased. "Walang talo-talo sa
magkukumare."

I stopped, the thought of him rejecting me pained me and I nodded and bit my lip.

"W-well, maybe it's fine if we stayed magkumare and forget—"

"Scira,"

"—everything, I like the kiss too but if you're—"

"Scira," he called again and I stopped, glancing at his eyes.

"H-hmm?" I hummed.

"You're the exemption to the rule," he said while staring at me.

Napalunok ako, I watched how his intense eyes glanced at me and I became giddy the
moment he moved a bit, lowering his head and I immediately closed my eyes.

I felt his breath on my nose, I found myself closing my eyes, pouting my lips until I felt
his finger touching my lips in a slow manner.

"Inferness, grabe ang halikan natin pero hindi nasira, kiss proof itong lipstick mo, Mars!
Saan mo nabili? Tsaka anong shade? Mas bet ko 'to kaysa sa kagabi." He commented
in a girly voice and I immediately opened my eyes and glared at him.
Kabanata 7

"H'wag n'yo nga ko inggitin." I pouted, glancing at the video call with my cousins on the
line.

"We'll swim at Tita Thallia's pool!" Bid ani Ate Clyte na tumatawa pa.

I rolled my eyes, sa background n'ya ay nakita kong busy sila Kuya Deion kasama ang
iba ko pang pinsan para sa overnight nila mamaya na naka-schedule sa bahay nila Tito
Iñigo.

"Hi, Architect!" Dungaw ni Ate Sibyl sa camera.

"Ang dadaya n'yo!" I hissed, stomping my feet and they laughed at me.

Nakisilip din si Kuya Zion at kumindat.

"Hi, Miss Perfect." He muttered and wave.

"Kuya, si Zire?" I asked at maya-maya pa'y dumungaw na roon si Zire at ngumisi sa

akin.

"Party-party mamaya, Scira!" She muttered and danced jokingly.

I pouted, nakita ko pang lumitaw si Adira at ngumiti sa akin.

"Hi, Scira." She smiled.

"Hello," I smiled, muling humarap sa vanity at inayos ang blush on ko. "Anong plano
n'yo ngayon?" I asked.

"Well, we'll have movie marathon first." Ate Clyte said.

"May bago akong napirata!" Halakhak ni Ate Crest at ipinakita sa akin ang USB n'ya.

Natawa ako sa kanila at naiiling na kinuha ang hair brush ko.

"Kung kailan may alis ako tsaka ang dami n'yong plano." Reklamo ko. "Si Daru?"

"She's on her way here, humingi ng day off kay Tito Dash kasama si Macky." Ate
answered and I pouted and nodded.

"Sige, Scira, ayos muna ako." Zire grinned and waved at me.

Nakita kong nakadungaw pa rin si Kuya Zion doon sa gilid, magulo ang buhok at parang
kagigising lang.

"Kuya, magsuklay ka kaya." I commented and he laughed, brushing his hair with his
fingers.

"Sorry, Miss Perfect. Ito na." He teased and lifted his hand.
"Zion! Niluluto mo!" Kuya Deion exclaimed and Kuya Zion cursed, waved at me and ran
back to the kitchen.

Ate Clyte was left alone while talking to me, nagkakagulo sila roon sa pag-aayos ng bag
pack.

"Ate, where's Mom and Dad?" I asked her.

She smiled, brushed her hair a bit and answered me.

"They went to Mom's flower shop, off ni Dad. Sasama rin sila mamaya kina Tita Thallia,
well, lahat sila pero uuwi rin tapos kami-kami ang overnight." She smiled.

"Nakakainggit naman," I sighed. "May mga dumating na team ko kahapon, the rest will
remain today and we have to brief them first before officially starting the work."

"Wish I could help you, Scira." Ate sighed. "But you see...Architecture isn't really my line
of work. Medicine either, as much as I want to be like you and Deion, I can't."

"Come on, Ate." I chuckled. "You're a nurse with a lot of other work too! You don't know
how much I am wishing to be like you."

Her lips tugged for a smile, her brown eyes glistened a bit and spoke.

"How are you there? Ang pagkain mo?" she asked.

"Well, the food's great, uhm, may padalang food sa'kin always." I said instead so she
won't get worried of me.
"Call me when you have problems there, okay? Mom said she'll call, bantayan mo ang
phone mo para masagot mo."

"Okay, 'te." I smiled.

"Take care, Scira. I know you're a grown-up and you can handle yourself just fine but
please..." she sighed. "Don't diet too much, make sure you'll eat enough foods every
day, mahirap magkasakit kapag—"

"Where's your bag? Ako ang magdadala." Ate's voice faded when someone spoke.

"Mamaya na, kausap ko—"

"Oh, si Scira?" I heard the voice said and nang maupo ito sa tabi ni Ate ay napangisi
ako.

"Kuya Chiel!" I cheered.

He laughed, I saw how his blue eyes glistened.

"How are you holding up, Miss Perfect?" he teased and I rolled my eyes.

"As if perfect, Kuya." I muttered. "Ang daya n'yo, may pa-overnight tapos wala ako!"

"Biglaan lang nag-aya si Adira," he laughed then glanced at Ate Clyte who's frowning at
him.
"Ayaw pa nga nitong Ate mo," Kuya pinched Ate Clyte's cheek.

"Anong ayaw, hoy!" Ate slapped his hand but Kuya laughed and tried pinching her
cheek again.

"Totoo naman—"

"Hindi kaya...Kuya!" Ate Clyte hissed and Kuya Chiel frowned.

"Didn't I tell you to stop calling me—" Ate Clyte pushed his face and glanced at the
phone to smile awkwardly.

"Ingat ka d'yan, Scira. Bye, love you!" Ate Clyte smiled and waved.

"Bakit ako walang ganoon—" Kuya Chiel muttered but the video call ended.

I chuckled, shaking my head while looking at the call that just ended.

They're like cats and dogs. Masaya siguro sila mamaya, I just hoped I'll be there
but...work first.

After I am done brushing my straight hair, I checked my blouse para sa gusot. Nang
makitang ayos naman ay sumulyap sa kulay itim kong skirt. I took my earrings, put on a
red lipstick and wore my stilettos before going out.
Mabilis kong sinara ang kwarto at lumingon pero sa gulat ay napahawak sa dibdib ko sa
gulat nang makita ang tao roon.

"Tintin!" I exclaimed, touching my chest and I saw him smirked.

He's leaning on the wall in front of my room, nakapamulsa habang suot ang kulay gray
na dress shirt at slacks.

"Mornin," he muttered and I chuckled and walked towards him.

"Good morning, bakit ka nandito?" I asked.

He shrugged, chuckling, he walked towards me and took my bag.

"O-oh," I muttered in shock.

"Well, uh..." he cleared his throat and put the bag on his elbow. "Bagay ba, sis?"
Inilagay n'ya ang kamay sa baywang.

I suddenly laughed, nakita ko ang pagtikwas ng kilay n'ya at ang biglaang pagrampa.

"I always dream having hand bags and holding it like this," he said, his hips moving a bit
while walking.

"Bagay," tawa ko, mabilis na naglakad palapit sa kanya at dinakma ang pang-upo n'ya.

"You got a round ass, hmm..." I teased.

He froze, nanlalaki ang matang nilingon ako. I saw him blushed and I laughed, spanking
his butt jokingly before pinching his nose.

"Gwapo mo, Mars. Anong butt work out mo?" I asked and I saw him licked his lower lip
and his jaw clenched a bit.

"Well, just...some squats." He said and I pouted.

"I do squats too, Mars, but my butt isn't that round, I mean..." tumalikod ako mula sa
kanya at tinuro ang pang-upo ko. "Hindi s'ya masyadong bilog."

Hindi s'ya umimik, I looked at him and saw him blushing. Diretso pa ang tingin at hindi
sa'kin.

"Mars?"

"Huh? Yeah, right." He chuckled nervously. "Baka...baka kulang pa, sis." He

commented.

"Ganoon?" I frowned. "Ilan ba dapat? Tignan mo, sis." Kinuha ko ang kamay n'ya at
pinatong sa butt ko at nakita kong mabilis s'ya napalingon sa'kin na nanlalaki ang mata.

"W-what..." he said in a whisper.

"Ay, sorry..." I laughed at him. "Ngayon ka lang nakahawak ng pwet ng girl?"

"H-huh?" he blinked at me. "I-I just..."

"Okay lang 'yan, sis." I chuckled, "pinapahawak ko lang pwet ko. 'Di ba? Feel mo, nag-
s-squat naman ako pero maliit pa rin—"

"I-it doesn't look small to me," he said, immediately withdrawing his hand on my butt and
I pouted.

"Really?" I glanced at his butt.

"Gusto ko 'yong iyo, bakat 'yong—"

"Y-you shouldn't really let me touch your butt like that—"

"Why not?" I asked, my forehead creasing. "We're sisters, right? Tsaka, ako sa mga
pinsan, naghahampasan nga kami ng pwet?"

His forehead creased, nagulat ako nang makitang madilim na ang tingin n'ya sa'kin.

"What the hell? Even your boy cousins?" he hissed.

"Of course not!" Napatawa ako ng malakas at pinalo s'ya. "Sa girls lang!"

"Then why did you let me—"

"You're a woman, remember?" I shook my head. "We're super twins, Augustine, kaya—
"
"Still a no, Scira." He muttered angrily and I blinked.

"B-but..." naglakad s'ya patungo sa elevator kaya nagmamadali akong naglakad

pasunod.

"Sir," I called.

"Gay or not, I am still a man. You can't just let me touch your butt like that—"

"Bakit ka nagagalit?" I muttered, he looked at me and my forehead creased.

Bumukas ang elevator kaya pumasok kaming dalawa.

He sighed, "I'm not mad—"

"Galit ka, eh!" I hissed and glared at him. "Masama ba 'yong ginawa ko? Gusto ko lang
naman ipahawak sa'yo para ma-check mo. I never did that to anyone, ginawa ko 'yon
kasi magkaibigan tayo, akala ko ba close tayo—"

"Fuck, we are close, Ma'am, okay?" He explained and I frowned.

"It doesn't look like it to me, Sir." I hissed, taking my bag from him.

"Scira," he called, nilayo sa'kin ang bag ko.

"Give me my bag!" I exclaimed.

"No, look..." he licked his lower lip and turned to me. "We're close, okay? We're friends?
I-I just don't think it's good if you'd just grab my hand and placed it on your butt just like
that—"

"Why not?" I raised my brow and hissed at him. "Ibig sabihin lang 'nun, ayaw mo
sa'kin—"

"I like you, Ma'am, okay?" he said and I just snorted. "I just don't think it's good for you
to do that, I-I mean, I'm having self-control here and—"

"Lelang mo self-control." I hissed.

"Scira!" he called and I rolled my eyes.

"Akin ang bag ko!" I exclaimed, trying to reach it but he's persistent.

"No, listen to me." He said and tried touching my arm but I pushed it away from me.

"My bag, Augustine!"

"No, baby, look..." he said but I still tried taking my bag. I lifted my hand to try taking it
from him but he was too fast to stop me, turn me around and pushed me on the wall of
the elevator.

My eyes widen, gulat akong napaangat ng tingin sa kanya at nakita ang seryoso n'yang
titig sa akin.
"L-let me go," I hissed, trying to push him a way but he didn't even move an inch.

He looked down on me, muli n'yang nahuli ang kamay ko gamit ang isa n'yang kamay
at mas lumapit sa katawan ko.

His black, intense eyes stared at me and I stared back at him, kung seryoso ang tingin
n'ya ay maldita ang akin.

I raised my brow. "Let me go."

"No, you listen first to me."

"For what? Eh, ayaw mo naman ata akong kaibigan—"

"No way, Scira Rosalie..." he hissed and stared at me again. "I am saying that, it isn't
proper to just do things like that." He explained.

"W-why not?" I asked in a small voice and he licked his lip and spoke.

"I'm a man,"

"But you said you're a woman," I muttered and he closed his eyes, as if trying his best to
remain calm to explain me his side.

"Yes, but you're aware na natotomboy na ako, 'di ba?" He asked and my lips protruded.
"B-but..."

"Meaning, I have to control myself from drooling over my kumare, right?" he asked.

Hindi ako nakasagot. Kinagat ko ang labi ko at tumitig sa kanya.

"Y-yes but I did that kasi I'm comfortable with you and—"

"I'm doing my best to stop myself from kissing you senseless, Ma'am." He said timidly
and I felt my heart racing.

Nanuyo ang lalamunan ko, napalunok pa ng marahas habang nakatitig sa seryoso

n'yang mga mata sa akin. I didn't speak, nakita ko ang pag-igting ng panga n'ya bago
nagsalita.

"So, when you—"

"W-who's stopping you, anyway?" I asked and his forehead creased.

"Stopping from what?" he asked.

"Kissing me senseless," I muttered and I saw how he licked his lip.

Tila nawawalan ng pasensya ay nakita kong seryoso s'yang nagbaba ng tingin sa labi
ko.
"Scira," he called impatiently and stared back at my eyes. "Listen to me, Ma'am, okay—
"

I tiptoed and kissed him on the lips to prove my point.

He froze, kita ko ang panlalaki ng mata n'ya kaya lumayo ako at tinitigan s'ya.

"Tomboy na rin ako, Augustine." I said timidly and frowned at him. "Do you think it's only
you who's questioning your gender right now?"

He blinked, he still looks stunned, namumula ang mukha at nakatitig sa akin.

"You mean..."

"I like—" we both stopped when the elevator made a sound.

The loud girls stopped when they saw us, sa gulat ay nahila ko ang kamay mula kay
Warren at itinulak s'ya.

Mabilis naman s'yang napaatras at napatitig sa akin kaya nag-iwas ako ng tingin at
tumikhim.

The loud girls entered the elevator, kaagad kong natantong si Macey iyon kasama ang
dalawa n'ya kaibigan.

Their eyes landed on me, kita ko ang pagsimangot ni Macey sa akin pero ngumisi nang
makita ang nasa tabi ko.
"O-oh, hi, Engineer! Good morning!" She greeted Warren who just came back from his
reverie.

He glanced at them and I frowned.

Subukan mol ang bumati, Miranda...

"Good morning, Engineer!" The two other girls greeted him.

"Mornin," he said and I feel annoyed at that.

Aba't...sinagot nga!

The elevator reached the floor we're supposed to go, mabilis kong nilingon si Warren,
hinatak ang bag ko at diretsong naglakad palabas.

"Scira...wait!" he called and ran after me.

Hinila ko ang braso ko nang maabutan n'ya ako at mahawakan.

"What..."

"Bitiwan mo nga ko," I hissed.

"What did I do this time?" he asked and I rolled my eyes.

"Architect!" kaagad akong ngumiti nang makita ang team ko na bagong dating habang
kumakaway sa'kin.

"Scira..." Warren called and I just flipped my hair a bit, raised my brow at him and
walked towards my team mates.

Kaagad akong binati ng team ko pagkarating, my secretary immediately stood and

showed me her tablet for the agendas today.

Sumulyap ako sa pwesto ni Warren na mukhang pinagkakaguluhan na rin ng sariling

team, I saw him glancing my way and when our eyes met, umirap ako.

"Architect, dala po naming ang plan at blueprints para sa main hallway." My secretary
said until my phone rang.

My brow raised when I saw Warren's name that I immediately opened it.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Hattitude ka, sis?

I snorted.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Lelang mo.
I looked at him and saw him reading the message. His forehead creased, I smirked
when his face crumpled, kaagad na nilingon ako at nang makitang nakangisi ako ay
umirap s'ya at umiwas ng tingin.

What the hell?

Annoyed, I typed a message.

To: Mareng Tintin

Did you just roll your eyes at me, Augustine?

From: Kumareng Tintin

*rolls eyes*

"Aba't..." I muttered but my secretary called my attention kaya nilingon ko kaagad s'ya.

"Let's go na, Architect." Aniya kaya wala na akong nagawa at sumama.

I followed them towards the meeting hall, naroon na ang team ko na nauna na kaagad
akong binati. Sa kabilang banda ay paniguradong team ni Warren dahil kaagad itong
bumati sa kanya nang pumasok s'ya.

I sat on the seat assigned from near near the projector, nakita kong nakikipag-usap na
rin si Warren sa mga kasama kaya sumulyap na lang ako sa hard copy sa harapan ko
at binuksan para basahin.
The door opened, tumayo kami nang makita si Mr. Aurelio na pumasok, may malaking
ngiti sa labi habang tumatango sa mga bati.

"Magandang umaga rin," he chuckled. "Pasensya na at natagalan. I just received an

urgent call regarding my wife, nasa Maynila kasi at kailangan ako."

He went in front and I smiled when our eyes met.

"I have to go there tomorrow pero tuloy pa rin naman ang renovation, h'wag kayong
mag-alala, kahit wala ako, my nephew would be here to assist you if you have
questions or clarifications. He knows the plans here well, so, there'll be no problem." He
smiled. "Is that...fine with you all?"

We all nodded.

"Excuse, can we exchange seats?" My eyes landed beside me when I heard a voice
and I saw a woman from my team standing with a wide smile while nodding at Warren.

"S-sure, Engineer..." she said, almost giggling and went on his place.

Kumunot ang noon ang makita si Warren na parang wala lang na umuupo sa tabi ko. I
frowned at him and I saw him just smirked.

"Oh, tamang-tama at nand'yan na s'ya. Tama lang ang dating mo, hijo." Mr. Aurelio
said. "Anyway, this is my nephew, he can help you if you have questions regarding the
project."
My eyes landed on the man walking towards the middle and my eyes widen a bit when
he saw who was it.

"Everyone, this is Lucas, my nephew." Mr. Aurelio smiled.

Lucas made it in front, kaagad na nagsalubong ang mata naming dalawa at nakita kong
wala man lang gulat sa mata n'ya nang makita ako.

My forehead creased and I saw him smirked at me and introduced himself to the people
we're with.

Natapos ang meeting na iritado ako at gulat. Warren is quiet beside me too, nakita ko
ang seryoso n'yang titig sa hard copy sa harapan n'ya at ang higpit ng hawak n'ya sa
ballpen, parang isang kalabit ay bubutasin na kakatusok ang nasa harap.

Lucas sat in front of me, malayo man ay kita ko ang ngisi n'ya roon, halatadong
pinagmamasdan ako.

My team knew him, of course, kaya hindi rin sila masyadong umiimik dahil ramdam
marahil nila ang tensyon.

"We'll proceed now to our site visit," Mr. Aurelio smiled and stood, nauna na paalis.

Kinuha ko ang hand bag ko kasama ang soft copy patayo para sumunod.

"Akin na," Warren offered his hand to hold my bag for me, seryoso pa s'ya roon.
"No need—" I stopped when I saw someone took it from me, nagulat ako nang makita
na sa tabi si Lucas habang hawak ang hand bag ko.

"Anong ginagawa mo rito?" I asked sharply and he just smirked at me.

"Work, hon." He said coolly. "You think you can leave me like that? Of course not."

"What..." I muttered, glanced at Warren at napasinghap nang makitang kunot ang noo
ni Warren, his eyes are dark, akmang lalapit kay Lucas pero mabilis ko s'yang pinigilan.

"Warren, no." I muttered.

Annoyed, he glanced at me and I shook my head and touched his chest.

"I'm okay, Tin. Let me just talk to him, 'kay?" I said softly.

"Sino ba 'yan?" Lucas said, he's in my back. Umabante s'ya at sinubukang harapin si
Warren. "Bodyguard mo?" he mocked.

"Lucas, pwede ba?" I hissed and glanced at him angrily.

He smirked, naiiling na lumayo kaya muli akong sumulyap kay Warren na nakakunot
ang noo. His jaw's clenching, seryoso ang itim na mga mata at mukhang galit.

"Sir, I'll be alright, hmm?" I said softly and touched his chest.

"That man can't be trusted, Scira." Mariing sabi n'ya kaya umiling ako.
"Kakausapin ko lang, sige na... I'll be fine, go walk with your team." I said and he just
frowned at me.

"Sir, please?" I said softly and he, hesitating at first nodded after a while and glanced
coldly beside me then looked at me.

"Sa'kin ka mamaya," mahinang sabi n'ya at nangingiti, tumango ako. He moved a bit,
tilted my chin to kiss my forehead before looking at the man beside me boastfully and
smirked.

Palaban ang Kumareng Tintin ko!

Kabanata 8

"Who's that asshole?" Lucas asked like a nagger he was, umiling na lang ako at
diretsong naglakad.

"Scira!" he called, mabilis na sumunod sa akin at napasinghap ako nang hawakan n'ya
ang braso ko.

"What?" I hissed, annoyed.

"Who is that man?" he demanded and I glanced at him coldly, lifting my brows and
crossed my arms on my chest.

"Why do you care?" I asked.

"Scira, look..." he sighed. Napansin kong sumusulyap pa sa'min ng tingin ang iba pero
hindi nagsasalita. "I...still love you, okay?"

"Hmm, and?" I raised my brow.

"And I want us to get back together!" he exclaimed. "Nadala lang ako sa galit, I'm sorry I
broke up with you—"

"Excuse me?" my brow raised and my lips lifted for a smirk. "Let me remind you that
I...broke up with you."

"Ako, Scira. Inunanahan mo lang ako—"

"No, I broke up with you, Lucas." I said and shook my head. "Don't expect me to be
back to you."

"You have to! Isa pa, your family needs mine—" my laughter roared, natahimik si Lucas
at nakita kong pinagtitinginan nanaman ako.

"Excuse but what?" I laughed again, naiiyak na ako sa kakatawa kaya tumikhim ako at
tinanggal ang nangingilid kong luha.

"My family needs...yours?" I chuckled.

"Yes—"
"Is that a joke?" I shook my head. "I hope it is kasi sobrang nakakatawa."

I saw how stunned he is, umawang ang labi n'ya sa gulat sa sinabi ko.

"Of course, you needed us! Kaya ka nga pumayag sa relasyon natin—"

"I said yes to you because my Mom said your family looks good. My mother is always
right but it seems like...thinking you are good, medyo pumalya." I said.

He looks shocked and stunned, kumunot ang noo n'ya at akmang magsasalita pero
umiling ako, mabilis na inabot ang bag ko mula sa kanya.

With my chin up, I turned my back on his, glanced at the elevator and smirked when I
saw Warren leaning beside it while watching me.

He really is handsome, disheveled hair, cold black eyes and tight jaw. Gusto ko tignan
palagi ang hubog ng kanyang braso sa dress shirt na suot.

He looks irritated and cold and I flashed a small smile and immediately waved.

"Kumare!" I exclaimed, smiling at nang maabutan s'ya ay mabilis akong kumapit sa

braso n'ya.

For the next days, tuloy-tuloy ang aming naging trabaho. There are a lot of times where
Lucas kept on pestering me, na kahit anong sabihin ko ay tila hindi s'ya matahimik.
Kaya the next days, I have a mission. Ilang araw ko na s'yang namamataan sa labas ng
kwarto ko kapag pupunta na ako sa site, namimilit na makisabay, mabuti na nga lang ay
nariyan ang kumare kong si Tintin at lilitaw na lang bigla para iligtas ako.

For today, kailangan kong umalis ng maaga. Lucas usually goes here around eight and
it's just seven kaya aalis ako.

Bahala s'ya sa buhay n'yang mag-antay dito sa tapat!

I've had enough. Sinabi ko na sa kanyang tigilan na ako pero hindi talaga napipirmi!

I fixed my hair and my clothes. Pinaraan ko ang palad sa palda ng dress na suot at
nang masiguradong wala ng gusot ay lumabas na ako.

I stopped the moment I stepped out of my room, nanlaki ng bahagya ang mata ko nang
makita ang tao roon.

"O-oh, Warren?" I called.

Umangat ang tingin n'ya mula sa phone, sumulyap sa'kin at miski s'ya ay nagulat nang
makita ako.

"Sis," he called and stood straight.

"What are you doing here?" I asked, muli pang sumulyap sa relo at bumaling sa kanya.
"Maaga pa, ah?"

"Nothing," he said. "Just in case your asshole ex came here early..."

"Oh..." lumapad ang ngisi ko, ni-lock ko ang unit bago ako sumulyap sa kanya.
"Tamang-tama!"

"Hmm?" he looks confused. Lumapit ako sa kanya at nakita kong natigilan s'ya.

"Scira—"

"Ang gwapo mo sa umaga," I said, smiling while leaning towards him.

Natatawa ako dahil para s'yang tuod na nakatayo, sa paglapit ko ay napasandal s'ya sa
pader at nanlaki ang mata sa'kin.

"I..."

"Pati sa tanghali," I moved my body closer to him and touched his cheek.

He froze, namula ang mukha n'ya habang nakasulyap lang sa akin.

Bumaba ang daliri ko sa panga n'ya, pababa sa leeg at dibdib. "Hapon at gabi..."

I lifted my eyes and met his, mas lumawak ang ngiti ko nang makitang seryoso ang mga
mata n'ya sa kabila ng pamumula ng pisngi.

He gulped harshly and licked his lip.

"You see...that isn't a good thing to do." He said.

"Why not?" I asked innocently, marahang binaba ang kamay ko patungo sa likod n'ya.

"Scira..." he warned. "That is not a good idea." He said in conviction, kunwari ay hindi
namumula and I grinned.

"Why not?" I giggled, mabilis na pinalo ang pang-upo n'ya.

He froze, his eyes widen and I laughed.

"Scira Valderama!" he exclaimed and I giggled, lumayo ng bahagya, inabot ang kamay
n'ya at pinadama sa kanya ang pang-upo ko.

"You see, Mars, dinagdagan ko ang squats ko—"

"Y-you woman!" he glared at me and laughing, binitawan ko ang kamay n'ya.

"Yieee, lalaki na s'ya." I teased and licked my lip. "Baka mamaya, magulat ako n'yan na
magising na rin—"

My eyes widen when he dipped his head and covered my lips with his. Halos hindi na
ako nakagalaw sa gulat at nang humiwalay pa s'ya sa'kin ay tumaas ang kilay n'ya.

"Talagang may tatayo, Mars." He said and I blinked, my heart started hammering inside
my chest.
"D-did you just kissed me again—" he lowered his head for another kiss.

"Good morning and yes, I did." He said, with full of confidence, stood straight and put
my hair behind my ear.

"But..." I muttered, malakas na kumakalabog ang dibdib sa ginawa n'ya. "A-akala ko ba

hindi na tayo mag-ki-kiss, you said..."

"We just did, Ma'am." He said.

Hindi ko na maipaliwanag ang nararamdaman, napalunok ako ng marahas at nakita

kong napa-nguso s'ya sa reaksyon ko.

"Your lipstick tastes good, anong flavor?" he asked.

"U-Uhm, cherry?" I muttered and he smirked, slowly lifting his finger to remove
something on the side of my lips.

"Well, it's sweet but it's not kiss proof this time, hmm?" he commented and I glared at
him.

"Aba, eh, malay ko bang hahalikan mo ako?!" I hissed and his lips lifted.

"Should I inform you first, Ma'am?" he teased, touching my chin and caressed my lower
lip.

"Hmp! Ayan, kalat na!" I exclaimed and he chuckled sexily.

"I can lick it clean—"

"Malantutay ka, Augustine!" I exclaimed with my flushing cheeks and his laughter
roared, slowly touching my hand and pulled me.

"Come on, Ma'am. Your asshole ex might pop up somewhere." He said and naiinis man
kasi sinira n'ya ang lipstick ko, sumama na rin.

I watched our intertwined hands together, marahang hinahaplos pa ng hinlalaki n'ya ang
palad ko kaya nangingiting hinuli ko iyon.

That made him look at me, ngumiti naman ako at inilahad sa kanya ang bag ko.

"Baka gusto mo i-try?"

"Hmm," he took the bag from me, placed it on his elbow and winked. "Bagay ba, sis?"

"Mas bagay tayo." I said seriously.

His jaw dropped, napatawa ako bigla nang mamula s'ya at matalim na tumitig.

"Scira, you know I'm..."

"Oo, na-to-tomboy ka na, ako rin." I rolled my eyes and glanced at him then pouted.

"You know what?" he suddenly asked and I looked at him, marahang dinarama pa rin
ang hawak n'ya sa kamay ko.
"What?" I asked and I saw him licked his lip and spoke.

"Crush kita, Mars." He said, I was stunned.

I expected it, of course, inamin na rin n'ya sa aking na-to-tomboy na s'ya! Isa pa, that
kiss isn't nothing!

Nanatili akong nakatitig sa kanya, my mouth parted to speak yet his eyes have this
expression and his lips lifted.

"I..."

"It's alright," he smiled and intertwined our hands more.

"I like you too, Tin." I said and he looks stunned. He licked his lip, glanced at me more
and spoke.

"H-hindi naman kita pinipilit—"

"If I don't like you, I would have slapped you in the face for kissing me like that." I
confessed and I saw his eyes soften.

"Ma'am,"

"Alam mo, Sir..." I sighed and stared at his black eyes. "It's still new to me, you know,
liking you when I really shouldn't, una ay sister kita, kumars, mars...whatever it is."
"Then..." he gulped. "you won't like me anymore?" he looks nervous while saying that
and I chuckled and pinched his nose.

"Silly, Warren Augustine. As if ganoon kadaling pigilan?"

"Then why..."

"It's new to me, you know, like you. I mean, of course, you're a man."

"Woman, sis." He suddenly smirked and I glared at him and slapped his arm.

"Gago, you're still a man!"

"I am—"

"Pwes, saan ka nakakitang woman na may lawit?" I asked and he froze. Mas namula
ang mukha n'ya.

"Y-your mouth..." he muttered and I immediately laughed.

"Get my point? It's new liking someone with a body of a man pero may heart like a
woman." I said and he licked his lip, sighed and gazed at me.

"What if I am a man?" he asked and I chuckled.

"Well, if you're a man, so be it but why lie about it, 'di ba?" I smiled and glanced at him.
Natigilan s'ya, I saw how he became tense and my forehead creased at that.

"Tsaka...bakit mo gagawin 'yon? You wouldn't lie, hindi ka ganoon. You're my sister,
Tintin. Magkadikit ang pusod nating dalawa and even if you're gay, I still like you."

His face soften, he might look dark and serious at times, that black eyes of his could still
do wonders.

He's dark but mostly, he's a soft boy.

The elevator opened, natigil ang titigan namin nang may pumasok.

A handsome man entered the elevator, matikas at mukhang babad sa gym sa laki ng
katawan. Foreigner pa ata at nakita ko kaagad ang tingin nito sa akin.

His eyes lingered from head to toe, he's gwapo but his eyes are giving me creeps.

I glanced at Warren and saw him seriously glancing at the man, akala ko nga ay bet
n'ya kaya nagulat ako nang marahang hawakan n'ya ang baywang ko.

"Sir?" I called softly.

"Palit tayo," he said softly and I nodded.

Nagpalit kami ng pwesto. Inilipat ni Warren ang hand bag ko sa kabilang braso para
hawakan ako sa kabila. He placed his hand protectively on my waist, his built hiding me
from the man.
Handsome na, gentleman pa.

Super crush ko na talaga ang kumare ko!

"Excuse me," my eyes shifted when the foreigner spoke. Napalingon kami ni Tintin
doon. Mas humigpit ang hawak n'ya sa baywang ko kaya marahang inangat ko rin ang
braso sa baywang n'ya.

"Yes?" Tintin's cold voice asked the man. Sumilip ako roon at nakitang malapit na ang
foreigner kay Tintin at may inilalahad ng phone.

"Well, I'm sorry but I find you really handsome." The foreigner said and my jaw dropped.

"W-what?" Miski si Mareng Tintin ay gulat. Pareho kaming tulala roon sa foreigner na
naglalahad ng phone.

"Oh, that's rude." The man smiled then glanced at me. "Sorry, Miss, but your friend here
is really my type."

Kung gulat ako ay mas gulat si kumare. Hindi na s'ya gumagalaw, tulala lang at
mukhang tutumba na sa isang maling galaw.

"Well, I like you. You're handsome, can I get your number?" the foreigner asked him
straightforwardly and he didn't even move.

Tulala ang kumara ko at napamura ako sa isipan.

Geez, bet din s'ya ng foreigner! No way.

"Sir, excuse me..." I spoke and the foreigner glanced at me.

"Yes, Miss?" he asked.

"I'm sorry but this man," I glanced at the stunned Warren. "is my property."

"O-oh..." the man then smiled awkwardly. "Sorry, I thought you're just friends."

"He's my boyfriend," I smiled and when the elevator opened to the ground floor, I
immediately dragged Warren out.

"Fuck," my eyes shifted to him noong makalayo ang foreigner.

"Ayos ka lang? You should sit..." hinawakan ko ang braso n'ya at pinaupo sa bench
bago ako tumabi sa kanya.

He's pale, tila nakakita ng multo.

"Tin?"

"That man..."

"He likes you," I snorted and he looked at me, wide eyes and still shocked. "Wow, dami
kong kakompetensya, ah. Not just girls, pati boys?"

He gulped and he suddenly touched his arms, parang kinikilabutan pa s'ya roon at
nagtaka ako nang hawakan n'ya ang braso at may pinagpag.
"Fuck, I am having fucking goosebumps." He muttered and my brows lifted.

"Ganyan ka ka-gwapo, Cristine." I hissed.

He still looks shivering and I pouted. "Bakit, hindi ka ba sanay? I mean, you're a woman
at pareho tayo ng bet, hindi ka ba natutuwa—"

"Tibo ako, Valderama." He suddenly muttered and my lips protruded.

"'Yong charisma mo, abot hanggang Edsa." I hissed, annoyed. "Nakaka-stress na tuloy,
napatunayan kong kahit lalaki malakas ang hatak mo. Hindi lang babae. Mas na-
challenge akong i-enchance ang pang-aakit ko sa'yo—"

My eyes widen when he lowered his lips to kiss me. Nanlalaki pa ang mata ko nang
matanto iyon.

He touched my chin, slowly deepening the kiss and my mouth parted and accepted him.
I kissed him back, napahawak ako sa braso n'ya at naghiwalay lang nang pareho
kaming kapusin ng hininga.

Our eyes met, namumungay pa ang mata n'ya habang nakamasid sa akin at
napasinghap ako nang i-angat n'ya ang daliri para punasan ang labi ko.

"Smudge," he whispered.

"I-ikaw kasi..." I muttered and glared at him. "Hindi ka naman nagsasabi, edi sana
ginamit ko 'yong kiss proof!"
He smirked, nakita kong may lipstick din sa labi n'ya kaya inangat ko ang kamay at
pinunasan ang labi n'ya.

"Well, I suggest you use that every day."

"Hmm?"

"The kiss proof." His fingers landed on my lower lip. "'Cause I might kiss you more often,
Ma'am."

Galit na galit si Lucas pagpunta naming sa site Warren, bakit daw hindi ko s'ya inaantay
pero wala akong pakialam. No one asked him to wait for me, anyway.

Warren and I dined in a restaurant near the building for breakfast kaya sabay na rin
kaming pumunta roon.

The stared everyone is giving us is silly. As if may tinatago kaming dalawa at kuryoso
silang lahat pero bahala sila.

"If you need me, I'm just here." Warren said and gave me my hand bag.

"Okay," I smiled at him. He took a hard hat from the table, marahang humawak s'ya sa
braso ko at inayos ang buhok ko sa likod ng tainga.

"Take care rin." I said.

"I certainly will," he said and I praised silently how he looked handsome on his white
hard hat.

Tumingala ako ng bahagya habang inaayos n'ya iyon sa ngumiti. "Let's dine later, Sir?"

He glanced at me and chuckled. "Is that a date, Ma'am?"

"Maybe?" I pouted and he nodded.

"Alright, Mars." He said, lowered his head a bit. I know he'll kiss me and my ehart
started hyperventilating.

I met his eyes, waiting for his kiss. Lumapit s'ya ng bahagya at nag-aantay ako ng halik
pero natigilan lang kami bigla nang magbangga ang hard hat na suot namin.

"What the..." he muttered and we both stopped.

Nagkatitigan kami at bigla na lang natawa.

Our teams became busy. Inaasikaso ko ang team ko at ganoon din s'ya. Inuna namin
sa renovation ang kabilang building bukod sa main.

"Architect, suggestion po, parang mas maganda po kapag maglalagay tayo ng jacuzzi
sa VIP rooms. Ito po ang proposed design ng team sa interiors." One from my team
suggested and I took it.

"Na-approve ba ng budget ang addition ng jacuzzi?" I asked and glanced at her.

"Yes, Ma'am. Naitanong na po namin si Sir Lucas for clarification and he said approved
naman ni Mr. Aurelio."

"Alright," I smiled. "Ako na ang bahala magsabi kay Engineer Miranda. Thank you."

"Welcome, Ma'am." She smiled.

Sumulyap ako sa team at ngumiti. "Good work, guys!"

"Thank you, Architect." Masayang sabi nila sa akin.

One thing my Mom taught me to be an effective leader, listen. Listen to suggestions and
opinions. For a better work community, you must learn how to consider your team's
suggestions. Mayroon silang ideya na wala ka at mayroon ako na hindi pa nila alam.

To be an effective leader, you must learn from them and they will learn from you too.

"Architect, kain na po tayo."

"Sige, una na kayo. Hindi pa naman ako gutom." I smiled.

"Sige po." Nauna nang umalis ang team habang abala ako sa pag-check sa blueprints.

"Kumain na kasi tayo," now, Lucas is back.

"I'm full, Lucas." I said, "mauna ka na."

"You should eat now, Scira." He demanded. Hindi ko s'ya sinagot, nanatili ako sa
pagdo-double check ng blueprints.

"Scira!" he called and I lifted my head to glanced at him.

"What?"

"Stop being a brat!" he sneered.

"Hindi lang pumapayag, brat na?" I raised my brow. "If you're that anxious to eat then
eat now. Hindi ko sinabing antayin mo ako. I said I am not hungry."

I saw his jaw clenched, frustrated n'yang sinuklay ang buhok bago luminga sa paligid
bago iritado akong tinignan.

"You know what? That attitude of yours is the reason why your exes is breaking up with
you."

"I broke up with them, for your information. Including you." I said and shook my head. "If
you have a problem with this attitude of mine then leave, I never ask you to eat with
me."

"You're sick, Scira." He muttered and I chuckled.

"Oh, am I?"

"Yes! You're inconsiderate! Hindi ka man lang ba natutuwang niyaya kita—"

"Well, I can see that it's scripted and not of concern." I said and he stopped.

"How can you say that—"

"Well, my father is a psychiatrist, Lucas. I am not Thorn Valderama's daughter for

nothing." I raised my brow.

"No, I asked you out of concern—"

"Well, it doesn't look like it. Fuck off, Lucas." I said coldly.

"At sino ang bago mong gusto, huh? Iyong engineer na 'yon? Huh." He scoffed. "You
have a bad taste in men, talagang ang lalaking iyon lang ang ipapalit mo sa'kin?"

"I have a good taste in men, Lucas." I shook my head and looked at him cockily. "It's
just, it seems like, anak nga ako ni Zidney. Pumalya pagdating sa'yo."

His mouth parted.

"Y-you woman..."

"And Warren is far more better that you. Hindi s'ya 'lang' lang." I said like a bitch I am.

"Parang nagutom na ako sa pakikipag-usap sa'yo." Mabilis akong tumayo, tumalikod sa

kanya at humanda na paalis pero naabutan ko si Warren na naroon at nakatayo.
Nagkatinginan kami at kita ko ang malambing n'yang tingin.

"You hungry? Let's eat?" malumanay n'yang tanong.

My heart immediately calmed down, nang ilahad n'ya ang kamay sa'kin ay mabilis ko
iyong tinanggap at napangiti.

"Hmm, let's eat." I said cheerfully and he chuckled before assisting me.

"Scira!" Lucas exclaimed angrily and I acted as if I didn't hear anything.

"Hala, may nagsasalita ba?" I asked Warren who only looked around and shrugged.

"Wala akong narinig," he said and smirked.

I am a very meticulous person, from my outfits every day, my hairstyles, my make

ups...everything.

Pero ngayon lang ako nagpanic habang namimili ng susuotin para sa dinner naming ni
Augustine.

Nakakalat ang dresses ko sa kama pero wala pa rin akong mapili. I glanced at my
watch and sighed when I saw I only have fifteen remaining minutes to choose what to
wear.

"Ito na lang," I muttered, took the black dress and wore it.
I watched myself in the mirror and saw how the dress hugged my curves. It's a black
body con criss cross dress. Kita ang parte ng baywang ko dahil sa disenyo at inayos ko
ang diretso kong buhok sa likod bago kumuha ng ipapares na jewelries.

When I felt satisfied, I wore my silver heels to match my outfit and took my coat to cover
my shoulder.

Usapan namin ni Tintin na magkikita kami sa lobby kaya nagulat ako nang sabay
kaming lumabas ng mga kwarto. Kaagad kaming nagkatinginan at nagkatawanan.

"Well, surprise?" I said and he chuckled.

Isinara n'ya ang kwarto n'ya bago naglakad palapit sa akin.

He looks stunning, simpleng kulay puting dress shirt at slacks lang ang suot pero iba pa
rin ang dating. He usually wear those at work but he still have that charisma.

I saw him looking at me and I cleared my throat and stood straight, showing him my
dress.

"Uhm, what do you think?" I asked shyly.

He smiled, I saw his thick brows lifted a bit and showed me his hand. "Beautiful."

Tinanggap ko iyon, nangingiti at nang sabay kaming maglakad ay bumulong s'ya.

"Gusto ko 'yong ekis-ekis na designs sa t'yan mo, pagawa ako n'yan." He said and I
bursted out laughing, sumulyap ako sa kanya at nakita s'yang naaaliw akong
pinagmamasdan.

"Ang harot-harot mo Sir." Tawa ko.

He tilted his head, touched my hand more and smiled.

"Only to you, baby. Only to you." He said.

My heart thumped, I am hyperventilating yet I managed to glare at him and stopped.

"Scira Rosalie Sandejas Valderama." I said and his forehead creased.

"Hmm?"

"Ang ganda-ganda ng pangalan ko tapos baby ang itatawag mo?" I asked seriously.

He blushed, as if shy, he licked his lip and opened his mouth to speak but I cut him off.

"Isa pa nga!" I giggled and grinned.

Kabanata 9

"Hi, Mom." I smiled.

"Honey, ayos na ayos, ah? What's the occasion?" Mom smiled.

Tumikhim ako, nakaayos na ang buhok ko at nakapag-make-up na para sa dinner

namin ni Tintin nang tumawag ang reyna.

"I have a dinner today," I said.

"Hmm, new boy?" she teased, her brows lifted a bit.

I chuckled and nodded slowly. "Well, yeah."

"Hmm," she teased. "Tell me what he's like, nabalitaan ko sa Kuya mo ang tungkol kay
Lucas."

I sighed, naupo ako sa kama bago sumandal sa head board at sumagot.

"Just...another failed relationship, Mom." I said and glanced at her. "You think love's for
me?"

"Everyone deserves love, honey." My Mom muttered and she looks worried, "bakit mo
naman nasabi 'yan?"

"Nothing," I sighed. "I just...Lucas is my fifth boyfriend yet wala pa rin. It kept on failing,
Mom. How did you find Dad?"

Her face soften, sigurado akong nasa opisina s'ya ni Dad dahil sa background. I saw
her rested her back on the couch and fixed her hair.
"It's a tough fight, my baby." My Mom smiled, as if reminiscing it. "You know how I got
lost from our family, right?"

I nodded when I remembered her stories.

"Tinik found me, baby." She said. "Your father found me when I was a wreck, we loved
each other dearly but things just...you know, isn't in our favor. Fate separate us."

My heart swelled, seeing my mother's face now with a mix of sadness and happiness
reflecting her eyes.

"But you two are now married..."

"Fate separate us but our love brought us together, again." She said. "Hindi madali,
anak, sobrang hirap pero ang pagmamahal, pinagdadasal iyan."

I listened intently to her.

"Ang pagmamahal hindi hinahanap, hindi pinipilit. Love comes if it's meant for you. Kaya
dapat ipinagdarasal ang tamang tao." She said.

That made me smile, I nodded and spoke.

"Thank you, Mom. I love you."

"I love you too, my sweet pea. Sinong ka-date mo? I'm here at your old man's office."
"Well, Mom, may gusto sana akong itanong..." I said and she became attentive.

"Yes, baby? Ask me."

"Well," my heart hammered inside my chest. "Can we involve Dad?"

"Oh, sure." Mukhang naguguluhan pa ay tumayo si Mom sa sofa, binuksan n'ya ang
pintuan at nang makapasok sa clinic ni Dad ay ngumisi.

"Thornie, baby Scira." My Mom said, smiling.

"Really? Come here." I heard his voice.

Mom walked towards him, natatawa pa ako dahil ang laki ng ngiti ni Mommy habang
naglalakad kay Dad.

"Pakandong!" She cheered and I laughed with my Dad when the jolly Zidney Valderama
sat on her lap.

"Careful, queen." Dad laughed, maya-maya ay nakadungaw na s'ya sa video call.

"Dad!" I waved my hand.

"Hi, honey." He smiled, mukha nilang dalawa ni Mom ang nasa screen and I couldn't
help but admire the love they have for each other.

It's pure, indestructible. Kahit nag-aaway sa mga bagay-bagay ay naaayos nila dahil
nakikinig sila sa isa't-isa.
"How are you, princess?" My Dad asked, ipinatong ang baba sa balikat ng Mommy
habang nakatitig.

"Great, Dad." I smiled.

"Ayos na ayos ang prinsesa, ah? Date?" he asked and my lips protruded and I nodded.

"Dinner? But maybe, date na rin?" I chuckled.

"Who?" his brow raised. "Deion told us about Lucas, that asshole, I know he isn't a good
choice."

"Well, that's in the past. Let's not talk about him, Dad. May itatanong ako." I said.

"What? Someone's hitting on you again?" he sounded like a strict father and I
immediately laughed, Mom shook her head.

"Come on, Scira's a woman, you don't expect her to stop dating—"

"She's young, isa pa, her exes are all assholes, ayokong nasasaktan ang anak ko." My
Dad's lips protruded. "Scira, are you dating?"

I don't know but my heart swelled while listening to him.

"Well, I like someone..." I started.

"Fuck, I knew it." My Dad whispered.

Sabay kaming natawa ni Mom. Mom caressed his hair as he buried his face on her
neck.

"I'm a grown woman na, Dad." I chuckled.

"Baby ka pa..." he muttered, nakatago pa rin sa leeg ni Mom kaya natatawa ako..

"Come on, Dad, I wanna seek for advice." I said, slowly, he looked at me, his black eyes
glistened a bit.

"What is it?" he asked, quite serious.

"Seryoso naman, Doc." I muttered.

His lip twitched, nailing si Mom at sumulyap sa akin.

"Go on, baby."

"Hmm," I sighed. "It's about my preference."

They both stopped, my mom blinked at me.

"Y-you mean you're a lesbian?" she said in a whisper.

"No!" I exclaimed but cleared my throat when I remembered Warren. "Well, sort of."
My father nodded a bit, gulping.

"Well, that's shocking since you're maarte like your Mom, but I understand." My father
said.

"S-sinong gusto mong babae, hija? Is it—"

"No, Mom." I chuckled nervously. "It's not that I like a girl." I quoted.

"B-but you said..." my Mom still looks shock.

"But what if, I'm really is a lesbian. Would you accept me?" I asked and my Mom,
doubtful at first nodded and flashed a smile.

"I understand, hija." She said. "It's just...it's shocking, seeing you with your exes and—"

"Chill, Mom." I chuckled. "It's not a girl."

"What do you mean, Scira?" Dad asked and I licked my lip and spoke.

"I like this certain man..." I started and I saw how their forehead creased. "but the thing
is, he's gay."

My Mom gasped, I saw my father blinked and gulped.

I don't know what else to say, hindi umimik ang dalawa kaya nagsalita na ako.

"Well?"

"Is it why you said you're a lesbian?" Mom asked, still shocked.

"Well, yeah. He's man in physique but somehow...he's a woman. You know what I
mean? Pwedeng potential jowa, pwedeng potential kumare."

"Mind blown," my father said kaya napatawa ako at kinagat ang labi ko.

"Plot twist of the year, princess." My mother said and I chuckled as I waited for their
response.

"There's nothing wrong with it," ani Dad na nagsalita na. "Basically, he's a man and
you're a woman. The only factor there is that...you know, anak. Hindi mo alam kung
ikaw din ang gusto n'ya."

"We have nothing against it, Scira." My Mom said. "It's just...nakapag-usap ba kayo?"

"He said, he's natotomboy, I mean, he likes me too, like a man."

"Do you like him too?" Dad asked and I found myself nodding at him.

"He's great, I don't want to compare him with my exes because he's a different case but
I like him more, Dad." I confessed. "He's a friend to me too, he's gentleman and a really
great person."
My father stared at me and I saw how his lip twitched.

"You adore him that much, don't you?" my father concluded and my eyes widen.

"N-not that much, ah!" I exclaimed but then stopped when my father smirked,
napasinghap ako at umirap.

"Oh, come on, you're being Doctor Valderama again!" I exclaimed and he bursted out
laughing.

Maging si Mommy ay tawang-tawa roon at sumulyap sa akin.

"You never talked to us about your boys, ngayon lang." My Mom muttered and I pouted.

"I was just seeking for advice, naguguluhan din ako." I sighed and my Mom nodded and
spoke.

"We support you, honey. Whatever your decision may be, we support you. Just...don't
be too invested in your feelings, ayaw naming nasasaktan ka."

"Okay, Mom. I'll be alright." I said.

"If you need anything, don't hesitate to call, hmm?" my father said and I nodded. "At s'ya
ba ang ka-dinner date mo?"

"Yeah,"
"Oh," my Mom grinned. "Gawin mong lalaki para sigurado kang sa'yo ang bagsak,
sunggab agad, anak—"

"Zidney!" My Dad exclaimed and I laughed when he glared at Mom who bit her lip and
showed him a peace sign.

Habang naghahanda ako ay abala ako kaka-text kay Darshana dahil sa kaba, I still
can't choose what to wear.

To: Daru

I'm nervous as heck, Darshana!

From: Daru

Chill, girl. Sino ba kasing ka-date mo at nagpa-panic ka?

To: Daru

Basta. Secret.

From: Daru

Sus, ang arte. Kung gusto mo talaga kung sino man 'yang "Mystery boy" mo, dapat
organize ka, bawal ang epic fail baka ma-turn-off.

To: Daru
You mean, I should plan what will happen today?

From: Daru

Yep, but it's your choice. You could go with the flow or be organize like how you always
are. Goodluck, Miss Perfect.

To: Daru

Thanks, Darsh!

From: Daru

Welcome, sige, bye. May date rin ako, akala mo ikaw lang :p

I laughed, naiiling na ibinaba ang phone para magpanic sa isusuot na damit.

It's funny how Warren and I walked instead of riding his car for our dinner today.
Pormang-porma ako, complete with heels and make-up pero hindi naman ako
disappointed, instead I am thrilled.

Malapit lang naman kasi ang Casa Amara kaya hindi na kaming nag-abalang dalawa,
nakahawak ako sa braso ni Tintin habang sa may gilid ng kalsada.

"We could still drive the car and—"

"It's okay, Cristine." I chuckled at him. "Ang lapit lang ng Casa, oh."
I saw people looking weirdly at us, pormal pa kami pero naglalakad sa gilid ng kalsada.

He looks somehow shy, nakita ko ang pamumula bahagya ng pisngi n'ya at ang
pagsulyap sa akin.

"T-this is epic," he cleared his throat. "I should've just take you somewhere where we
can use the car—"

I kissed his cheek and I saw him froze. Gulat s'yang tumitig sa akin at kinagat ko ang
labi ko at ngumiti.

"Well, I used the kiss proof." I said. "And it's okay to walk, Tin. I am enjoying it, anyway."

Warren really is a soft boy, I am smiling secretly when I saw him hiding his smile.

Malapit na kami sa Casa Amara, I glanced at him when he suddenly went in the other
side and pushed me a bit softly.

My forehead creased noong nagpalit kami ng pwesto pero nakuha ko ang gusto n'yang
gawin nang may dumaang motor sa gilid.

Oh, lumipat s'ya para ilayo ako mula sa kalsada.

My heart hammered inside my chest and I realized I really do like him...a lot.

Nakarating kami ng Casa Amara at kaagad akong namangha nang makapasok sa loob.
The design is refreshing to the eyes, as an architect, hanga ako sa disenyo at ayos ng
hotel.
"Wow," I muttered, mas nagustuhan ang disenyo ng Casa Amara rito kaysa roon sa
branch nila sa Manila.

"This way, Ma'am." I heard Warren's low voice as he touched my waist. Kinuha ko ang
coat sa balikat ko, kinuha iyon ni Warren sa akin kaya nangiti ako at sumunod sa kanya.

"Do you know sinong Architect at Engineer ang gumawa rito?" I asked him.

"The Architects are from our firm, the engineers who helped building is was my cousin,
Vioxx and me."

My eyes widen. "Really?"

"Hmm, you like it?" he smiled.

"Yes," I nodded. "This cousin of yours...pamilyar s'ya sa'kin, I wanted to ask things
pero—"

"May girlfriend na 'yon," he suddenly said and I blinked.

"Huh?" I asked confused, he licked his lip, I saw his jaw clenched.

"Nothing," he said, I noticed his voice is a bit annoyed.

"Oh, Sir Warren, hello po. This way, Sir." Kilala s'ya nang staff, nakita kong napasulyap
din sa akin ang babae bago kay Warren at ngumiti.
I can feel the warmth of Warren's palm on my waist, nagtaka ako dahil tahimik na s'ya
at seryoso. Nauna ang staff sa elevator at nagtataka man na nilagpasan naming ang
restaurant sa ground floor ay sumunod na ako.

When we're inside the elevator, I noticed the woman glancing at Warren.

"Uhm, Sir, ngayon ko lang ulit kayo nakita rito, ah?" The woman suddenly started a
conversation.

"Well," he smiled a bit. "I'm busy at work, Trina."

Oh, magkakilala sila?

My forehead creased.

"Ah, kita ko nga, Sir." The woman chuckled. "Kasi noon madalas kayo rito nila Sir
Vioxx."

I cleared my throat, natahimik ang babae at nakita kong tumitig muli sa repleksyon sa
elevator si Warren.

I am annoyed, I don't get it why he's suddenly like that, suplado. And I don't get it why I
am freaking jealous when he's just talking to another woman!

All my life, I was never like this. Hindi ako kailanman nairita habang may kausap na iba
ang mga naging boyfriend ko but now...I don't know.

"Dito na, Sir." I saw the woman looking so awkward while saying it.
"Thanks, Trina. We're fine. I'll take it from here." Warren said coldly.

Oh, is he mad? Bakit malamig ang boses n'ya? Ayos naman kami kanina, ah? Dapat
ako nga ang galit kasi nakikipag-usap s'ya sa iba!

Siguro dahil sa pride, bumitaw ako kay Warren at nauna na palabas ng elevator. I saw
him stopped when he realized what I did pero wala akong pakialam.

Pagkalabas ko ay nakita ko kaagad ang nag-iisang glass door papasok sa rooftop.

Ngumuso ako, iritadong nag-martsa papunta roon nang may kamay na pumigil sa braso
ko.

"Scira," I gasped when I heard his voice, marahang hinila n'ya ako paharap sa kanya at
nang magtagpo ang mata namin ay seryoso ko s'yang tinignan.

"Do we have a problem?" he suddenly asked and I scoffed.

"Ako pa? Ikaw nga itong moody na bigla na lang hindi ako pinansin!" I hissed. "I
prepared everything, look at my dress. Tapos biglang 'di mo ako papansinin at
kakausapin mo kung sino!"

He sighed, his eyes soften.

"Trina is a friend, matagal ko na s'yang kilala..."

"Oh, edi sige. Eh, bakit mo bigla akong hindi pinansin, huh?" I exclaimed. "I was just
asking about your cousin and—"

"Because I am jealous, Valderama." He suddenly said and I stopped.

"Huh?"

"I engineered this hotel too, you can ask me questions kasi ako naman ang nandito,
bakit ka pa naghahanap ng iba?" he pointed out and I blinked.

Hindi kami umimik na dalawa, nagkatitigan lang kami at nang matanto kong ang
unreasonable ang pagseselos ko ay bumagsak ang balikat ko.

"S-sorry, I was just jealous too..." I muttered, sighing.

Hindi s'ya umimik, akala ko ay galit nanaman pero nang lumapit s'ya at hinuli ang
baywang ko ay kumalma ang puso ko. Slowly, he hugged me, nanlambot ako nang
maramdaman ko ang init ng katawan n'ya at ang halik n'ya sa buhok ko.

"Sorry, I was unreasonable." He suddenly whispered and I raised my hand, niyakap ko

rin s'ya pabalik at isiniksik ang mukha sa leeg n'ya.

"W-we're both unreasoanable. I apologize." I said softly.

"I'm sorry too, Ma'am," he whispered, pushing me a bit to caress my cheek. "Let's cheer
up and continue our date?"
His black eyes stared at me, nakita ko ang lambot 'nun kaya ngumiti ako at tumango.
Slowly, I touched his hand, nahihiya pa noong una at nang makita ni Warren at
ginagawa ko ay s'ya na ang humuli sa kamay ko at pinagsaklop ito.

He pushed the glass door and assisted me as we enter the rooftop. Nagtataka pa ako
noong una pero nagitla nang makita kung ano ang naroon.

There are colorful lights everywhere, nakakatuwa nga at ang cute tignan dahil mukhang
galing pa iyon sa Christmas tree. In the center is a candlelit dinner for two, pero sa halip
na may mga nakahandang pagkain na ay wala pa rito, may nakita pa akong ihawan sa
gilid at mukhang kami pa ang magluluto kaya kaagad na kumalabog ang puso ko at
sumulyap sa kanya.

"Tin..."

"This isn't what an ideal date is since we weren't in a fancy restaurant. Ako rin ang
magluluto." He chuckled and glanced at me. "I'm sorry that it's just like this but...I hope
you like it."

Humigpit ang hawak ko sa kamay n'ya, nagkatinginan kami at inangat ko ang kamay
n'yang hawak ko at idinala sa labi ko. I kissed his knuckles while staring at his eyes.

"Thank you, Tintin." I smiled and slowly hugged his waist. "I liked it, very, very much."

It was a one of a kind date, natatawa ako dahil ang ayos-ayos at pormal ang suot
naming pero sa huli ay nag-amoy usok lang kami dahil sa barbeque na iniihaw namin.

"Oh my God! Augustine!" I exclaimed noong umapoy ang barbeque ko, napasulyap sa
akin si Warren, mabilis na nagmura nang makitang nag-aapoy na ang iniihaw ko.
His eyes widen, mabilis n'yang napatay ang apoy at napatingin s'ya kaagad sa akin.

"Are you alright? Napaso ka?" he asked, checking my arms and my face.

"No," I said. His eyes went on my face, napatitig s'ya sa may ilong ko at maya-maya ay
napahagalpak ng tawa.

"What?" I asked but then he laughed again. I glared at him, nang mapansing nagpipigil
s'ya ng tawa ay umirap ako, mabilis na lumayo at kinuha ang purse ko.

I took my small mirror, placed it near my face and my eyes widen in horror nang makita
kong may itim na kung ano sa ilalim ng ilong ko na marahil ay galing sa usok.

My glanced at Warren who's biting his lip to stop his smile. "Miranda!" I exclaimed and
kicked his feet when he began laughing again.

It was epic, amoy usok na ang rooftop kaya ang ending, dala ni Warren ang bote ng
champagne at nagpa-order na lang kami ng pagkain mula sa resto.

Ang ending, pumunta kami sa VIP suite ni Augustine, mukhang mga kawawang batang
maitim ang ilalim ng ilong at amoy barbeque.

"Okay, thanks." Warren said on the phone, nakasalampak ako sa sofa n'ya habang
pinupunasan ng wet tissue ang ilalim ng ilong ko.

Wala na ito sa plano ko, inayos ko na sa notes ko sa phone ang mga gagawin ngayong
dinner date naming pero ni isa ay walang nangyari.
I took my phone, pumunta sa notes at nakita ang ginawa ko.

9:00 PM – Finish dinner

9:00-10:00 PM – Talk about life

"What's that?" my eyes widen, mabilis kong ibinaba ang phone ko at sumulyap kay
Warren na nangingiti sa tabi ko.

"Nothing," I pouted and glanced at him. "Mukha na ba akong ewan, Tin?"

His forehead creased, sumulyap sa akin bago umiling.

"No, Mars. Bet ko pa rin ang beauty mo." He said in a soft voice and I immediately
chuckled and smacked his arm.

"Alam mo ikaw, Augustine, ang pogi-pogi mo pero mas maharot ka pa sa'kin." I snorted.

His brow raised, I watched his eyes pierced through me, his lips forming a naughty
smirk.

Nawala ang ngisi ko nang inilapit n'ya ang mukha sa akin, my eyes widen when he took
the wet tissue from my hand and wiped it below my nose. Ramdam ko ang mabilis ka
kalabog ng puso ko when I felt his thumb slowly caressing my lower lip.

I gulped, staring at his face with our lips inches apart.

"Alam mo namang kay Kumareng Scira Valderama lang ako kakalampag, sis."
Maarteng sabi n'ya and I puffed a breath.

He laughed, iritang pinalo-palo ko ang balikat n'ya at ngumisi s'ya at may kung anong
iniangat.

My eyes widen when I saw him now holding my phone.

"Date with Kumareng Tintin Itinerary." He read my notes out loud.

"W-what...What the hell, Augustine!" I exclaimed and he laughed and raised his hand.

"Augustine!" I exclaimed when he stood, iniangat ang kamay kaya tinalon ko iyon.

"Ano 'to, ah? May schedule ka sa date natin, Ma'am?" he teased me naughtily, mas
inangat ang kamay habang nagbabasa.

"Warren!" I exclaimed, tinalon ang kamay n'ya pero hinuli n'ya ang baywang ko at
hinigit.

"Nine PM, finish dinner." He read. "Nine to ten, talk about life."

"Hmm, seems like you wanna talk about our lives, Ma'am?" he teased and my cheeks
flushed.

"Tin!" I gasped at pilit na kumawala pero mas hinigit n'ya ako na halos sumubsob na
ako sa leeg n'ya. "Tintin!"
"Pero lagpas na," he commented and glanced at the time and it's already ten fifteen in
the evening.

"Warren Augustine!"

"What's your plan at this time, hmm?" he tried scrolling the phone and I screamed.

"O-oh, God, no!" I hissed and I froze after he read it out load.

"Ten onwards, kiss."

I gulped miserably, mula sa phone ay bumaba ang tingin n'ya sa akin. I stopped
wiggling, I met his black eyes and saw how serious he is.

"It's kissing time, Ma'am." He muttered.

"J-joke lang 'yan..." I said in a small voice, kinakabahan na.

I saw him put my phone on his pocket, ang isang braso'y kinukulong pa rin ang
baywang ko.

"Hmm," he hummed, his hand reached for my cheek and my eyes widen when he
caressed it softly.

"We failed doing your schedules but...it's not too late, I guess." He said.
Hindi na ako nakasagot, my soul almost left my body the moment he lifted my chin to
gave me a quick kiss.

Namungay ang mata ko, kaagad na nagustuhan ang halik n'ya.

"I-isa pa, Mars." I muttered softly.

His lip twitched, lowering his head a bit. Our nose touched, mas bumilis ang paghinga at
umawang ang labi ko nang sobrang lapit na namin.

I can feel the warmth of his breath fanning my lips, napakapit ako sa damit n'ya sa
antipasyon nang tumunog ang door bell.

We both froze but then he caressed my waist more.

"Don't mind it," he whispered huskily.

"I don't..."

"Hmm," he tapped my chin and moved his face again when the sound of the doorbell
interrupted us.

"Sir Warren! Nandito na po ang pagkain!" I heard the loud voice on the door. Hindi kami
nakagalaw, umawang ang labi ko kakaantay ng halik pero mas lumakas ang tawag.

"Mars?" I heard the voice of a man. "Pagkain n'yo nandito na!"

"Fuck," Warren suddenly cursed and slowly pushed me.

"Tin?"

"Wait, baby..." he muttered and tilted his head before raising his brow. "Papatahimik ko
ang ipokritang..." his voice swayed as he gritted his teeth.

He left me, pinagmasdan ko s'yang namamaywang papunta sa pinto at iritado.

The bitchy Cristine is back on his personality.

"Ang bitchesang kung sino ka man..." reklamo ni Tintin na nakahawak sa baywang at

nagmamartsa. "Gigilitan kita sa neck, gigil mo ako!" he hissed.

Sumilip ako sa pinto nang buksan ni Warren and instead of a staff, a saw a man in a
corporate suit with the push cart.

"Hi, kumars, ito na foods n'yo. Kain muna bago magkainan!" The handsome man
teased, I saw his green eyes dancing with amusement.

"Putang..." I heard Warren cursed and I pouted.

"Oh, hi, Mars! Ikaw ba ang kumare nitong si Mars Warren?" the man waved at me and I
remained stunned.

"Tang ina mong Alcantara ka, y-you...bumalik kang hayop ka!" Warren gasped and my
eyes widen when the man with green eyes suddenly ran and Warren chased him after
taking a slipper somewhere.
Kabanata 10

"Well, I'm sorry for the interruption, Architect." He smiled.

"Well, it's not a big deal. It's fine." I said.

The man with green eyes offered me his hand, smiling.

"Caspian, Caspian Alcantara." He introduced and I took it and nodded.

"Scira Valderama," I smiled. "You're Warren's?"

"Ex." He answered and I froze. My eyes widen, magsasalita sana pero ngumisi s'ya at
tumawa.

"Kidding, I'm a friend, pinsan 'yan ng pinsan ko." He said at pareho kaming natigilan sa
marahas na tikhim, nabitawan ko ang kamay ni Caspian nang may naramdaman akong
bisig na pumaikot sa baywang ko.

I glanced behind me, looking at Warren's frowning face, he pulled me closer to his body
at napasandal ako sa dibdib n'ya sa ginawa n'yang iyon.

"Introductions done, get out, Alcantara." Warren said, annoyed.

Sa halip na ma-offend, nakita ko ang ngisi ni Caspian doon, mukhang nang-aasar.

"Is she..." Caspian muttered.

"Fuck you, Alcantara. Get out!" Warren hissed.

My lips protruded, pinalo ko ang braso ni Warren sa baywang ko at nilingon s'ya.

"Don't be so rude, Sir!" I exclaimed and I saw Warren's lips protruded.

"Scira..." he groaned.

"Tama, Architect." Ngisi ni Cas. "Rude ni Kumars, ano?"

My eyes widen, "you know about his..."

"Hmm," Caspian grinned and glanced at Warren. "But no worries, Warren is a good
man."

"Hmm," I nodded and smiled. Mas humigpit ang yakap sa akin ni Tintin, magtatanong
sana ako pero isinubsob n'ya ang mukha sa batok ko.

"Sus," Caspian laughed and glanced at me. "Well, mukhang nakakaistorbo na ako."

"Buti alam mo," bulong-bulong ni Warren kaya pinalo ko ang braso n'ya.

"Sir!" I exclaimed.

"What?" he whined and hugged me more.

Caspian grinned and looked at me. "Anyway, para naman masaya ang stay n'yo, why
don't you use the pool?"

Dumungaw bigla si Warren at nagsalita.

"It's close, right?" he asked and Caspian shrugged and glanced at his wrist watch.

"Yeah, but I can open it for you." He grinned.

My eyes widen and I easily felt excited, sumulyap ako kay Warren na halos ngumiwi na
pero tumango at sumulyap sa'kin.

"Do you wanna swim?" he suddenly asked and I excitedly nodded.

"Yes, please!" I grinned.

"Alright," he touched my waist again and glanced at Caspian. "Lusot ka ngayon,

Alcantara." He said.

"Yes! Ako pa!" Tawa ni Cas at sumulyap sa'kin, "perhaps, Architect, you looked a bit like
Zirena."

My forehead creased and I nodded.

"Well, she's my cousin." I said and I saw how his eyes widen. He glanced at Warren but
he just scoffed and pulled me again towards his body.

"Why? You know my cousin?" I asked and he looks in awe as he nodded at me.
"Well, her fiancée's my cousin." He said and my eyes widen.

"Really? Wave?" I exclaimed and he laughed and nodded.

"Well, yeah." He smirked. "Small world."

"Indeed," I muttered, still amused of the coincidence. "I wanted to meet Wave too,"

"He's engaged." Biglang putol sa akin ni Warren kaya nilingon ko s'ya at inirapan.

"Of course, duh?" I shook my head.

"Selosa naman," Caspian teased and I glanced at Warren, only to see him frowning
again.

"I just wanted to see him, palagi kasing hindi ko naaabutan 'yon. Arte ni Tintin." I
whispered, slowly turning so I could meet his eyes. Napabitaw s'ya sa akin kaya
natatawa ay hinawakan ko ang pisngi n'ya.

I stroked his face softly, his eyes remained annoyed and I laughed and pinched his
nose.

"I know I like you, Sir, right?" I said in a small voice only us could hear.

He remained serious, I flicked his lips and it parted a bit.

"Seloso." I whispered teasingly.

He touched my waist, moving his head a bit closer to me until our nose touch. My
breath hitched, hindi ako kaagad na nakagalaw at nakita ko ang titig n'ya sa akin.

"Sa'kin ka lang," he said and kinikilig man, I maintained my composure and answered
him.

"Sa'yo lang—" a loud clearing of throat stopped us, natulak ko si Warren sa gulat at
napasulyap kami kay Caspian na hilaw na nakangisi.

"Well, yuhoo! May tao rito!" he waved his hand and my cheeks flushed.

Shit, I've never done anything like this! I was never a fan of PDA but now...damn!

"I should go," he chuckled and glanced at me and nodded. "I'll go check my babe first."

"O-okay, thanks, Cas."

"No worries," his green eyes glistened and glanced at Warren before he grinned.

"Bye, Mars!" nagitla pa ako sa biglaang paglapit at maharap na paghampas nito sa

braso ni Warren.

"Y-you..." he hissed. "Alcantara!"

Caspian laughed, nagitla pa ng humawak s'ya sa baywang at sa gandang lalaki at
ganda ng katawan, parang nasisilaw pa rin ako nang makitang naglakad s'ya
kumekendeng palayo. Mukhang nang-aasar.

Oh, is he gay too?

"Way to go, lover boy!" biglang sabi pa n'ya at isinara ang pinto.

Napakurap ako, sumulyap kay Warren.

"Is he...gay too?" I asked.

To my shock, Warren pulled me towards his body and lowered his head. I know he was
aiming for a kiss and I tilted my head to gave it to him. Our lips almost touched when the
door opened.

"Lover girl, I mean..." biglang sumilip si Caspian at nahuli kaming dalawa. "O-oops?" he
laughed awkwardly.

Nag-init ang pisngi ko sa hiya, Warren possessively pushed me on his chest and I
heard his loud voice.

"Tang ina mo, Alcantara! Yari ka sa'king..." Warren's angry voice roared inside the
room.

Walang nakapigil sa aking mamili ng swim wear sa shops sa loob ng Casa Amara kahit
sarado na. I can actually go back to our building so I could get the swim wears I bought
in Manila but it would kill the vibe so I chose to buy here.
With the help of Caspian and the annoyed Warren, I managed to get a piece of
swimwear and some clothes because I've decided we'll stay here for the night since off
namin bukas.

I chose a black bikini and took my card to pay when a hand stopped me. Nagulat ako
nang maglahad din si Warren ng card.

"Let me, Ma'am." Warren muttered beside me but I immediately shook my head and
moved my hand to give the cashier my card.

"No, I am wearing it, Tin." I said.

"I know," he touched my waist. "but I'd like to pay—"

"No, my clothes, my money." I said and smiled at him.

Naguguluhan ang cashier sa amin, naka-angat na ang kamay pero naguguluhan kung
kaninong card ang kukunin.

"U-uhm, kanino po ang gagamitin?" the cashier asked, confused.

I opened my mouth to speak when Warren spoke.

"Hers," ibinaba ni Warren ang card n'ya kaya napalingon ako sa kanya.

Our eyes met and I saw how he smiled and spoke. "Sorry, of course, my baby can pay."

That alone made me smile and made my heart flutter.

Warren Augustine Miranda...considers my views and opinions. That's my tomboy.

I chuckled to myself. Baliw na ata si Scira sa Tintin n'ya.

Kami na lang ang tao but still, I confidently wear my brand new bikinis for our swimming.
The pool here opened with the only the two of us as the guests.

May isang bar sa gilid para sa mga inumin. Wala ng bartender pero may ilaw doon at
may nakahandang inumin.

Pumasok ako sa pool area, inikot ang mata at baka makita ang naunang si Warren pero
hindi ko s'ya makita.

"Augustine?" I called and walked.

The cold air touched my skin dahil sa suot na bikini. I lifted my hair, only to see the
wonderful and brightest stars above.

Beautiful...

Sabagay, walang gawa ng Diyos ang hindi maganda. Ang mga ginawa n'ya ay tila mga
bituin sa langit, hindi sabay-sabay sa pagliliwanag sa itaas. Some are shining as the
brightest, yet some are just there...unnoticed dahil wala silang masyadong liwanag but
as time goes by, they will shine too.

Sa tamang oras at pagkakataon, nagliliwanag din sila.3

Sumulyap ako sa napakaganda at napakaliwanag na buwan at nangiti. Ang mga bituin,
hindi gaanong pansinin dahil sa gandang dulot ng buwan pero patuloy pa rin sa
pagliwanag. I realized that sometimes, the unnoticed things are much more beautiful,
just not in everyone's perspective.

The loud splash of water stopped me from looking at the skies.

Naglakad ako palapit sa pool at kaagad na nangiti nang makita ang makisig na kumara
ko sa pool.

He's swimming towards my direction, dinig ko ang malakas na pagaspas ng tubig. I saw
how his arms stroked with the water, his feet paddled, swimming a bit fast towards me.

May iilang pagkakataong igigilid n'ya ang mukha para kumuha ng hininga at
dumukwang ako habang inaantay s'ya.

Moments later, he's already here. Like a professional swimmer.

Lumitaw ang ulo n'ya sa tubig at nasalubong ko kaagad ang itim n'yang mga mata. The
lights are dim yet his eyes shined like the stars in the sky.

"Hey, Ma'am." I heard his baritone voice, next to a boyish grin.

Nakita ko ang pagbagsak ng basak buhok sa kanyang noo, he's topless. Ang tubig mula
sa pisngi ay nahulog sa kanyang panga.

His lips are parted a bit, may nahulog ding butil doon na gusto kong punasan na lang
bigla.
I saw how his eyes landed on my body and I immediately grinned and placed my hand
on my waist.

"What do you think, Mars?" ginalaw ko pa ang tagiliran po para ipakita sa kanya.

I saw how his cheeks flushed, natawa pa ako nang bahagyang manlaki ang mata n'ya
sa akin.

"Hoy, Tin. Grabeng gulat naman 'yan." I chuckled.

"I just...." he gulped and shook his head. "Nothing, baby."

"Ngayon ka lang nakakita ng katawan ng girl? Look at my butt, kumare, hindi s'ya
kalakihan—"

"Scira Rosalie!" he exclaimed and I laughed hard, ngumuso ako nang samaan n'ya ako
ng tingin.

"What?" I asked. "I just wanted you to check my ass—"

"Damn it, Ma'am." He hissed and I giggled.

"Ayiee, turned on ka?" I asked and he just glared at me, brushed his wet hair with his
fingers and lifted his hand.

"Help me up, woman." He snorted and chuckling, I walked towards him.

Kinuha ko ang kamay na inilalahad n'ya, he was easy to lift since hindi naman ata s'ya
nagpapabigat. He stood in front of me, basing-basa ang katawan.

Our eyes met, I was about to tease him again when he pulled my waist towards him. My
face went on his wet body, I gasped and looked up to him.

"Sis!" I exclaimed.

"Sorry, baby." He muttered at nagtaka ako, my forehead creased, magtatanong sana

pero nilamon ng tili ang boses ko nang basta nalang n'ya akong niyakap at sabay
kaming nagpatihulog sa pool.

"Augustine!" I screamed loudly but it faded the moment our bodies submerged with
water.

I panicked, hindi ko matapakan ang sahig ng pool. I thought I was drowning when I felt
someone scooped me and lifted me up.

Hinahapo at natatakot akong napakapit sa tao sa harapan ko at tumili.

"Baby, calm down..." humahagalpak ng tawa ang lalaki kaya iritadong hinampas ko ang
likuran n'ya.

"Gago ka, Augustine!" I exclaimed, almost crying.

"You can't swim, hmm?" he touched my waist, pushing me more to his body.
"Hindi!" I exclaimed and smacked him. "You asshole! Tamang pa-cute lang ako kapag
nag-s-swimming kami!"

He laughed, suminghap ako roon at halos magpakarga na dahil hindi ko maabot ang
semento.

"Seems like Miss Perfect isn't perfect, hmm?" he hummed.

"Oo! Gago ka ba, paano kung nalunod ako?!" himutok ko pa, inangat na ang paa at
ipinaikot iyon sa baywang n'ya.

He chuckled and carried me more. "Well, Ma'am, you won't get drowned since I'm
here."

"Jerk," I said in an annoyed voice. "You're such a putang ina, Augustine!"

Sa halip na mainis ay humagalpak s'ya, pinalo ko ulit s'ya at naramdaman ko ang halik
n'ya sa pisngi ko at naglakad patungo sa gilid ng pool habang buhat ako.

I felt the cold on my back, humiwalay ako sa kanyang leeg at natantong nasa gilid na
kami ng pool. Siguradong malalim pa rin dahil hanggang sa may dibdib n'ya na ang
tubig.

I glared at him, hindi pa rin bumibitaw, takot na lumubog ang buong ulo sa pool.

"You can reach the pool, baby." He teased and I hissed at him, basing-basa na rin at
umiirap.
"I can't, Augustine!" I hissed. "I tried but I can't reach!"

"It's because you're panicking." He explained.

"No, that's because you dragged me here!" I hissed.

I saw how he smile handsomely, ngumiwi ako at hinawi ang mukha n'ya.

"Hindi mo ako madadala sa pangiti-ngiti mo, Augustine! Akala mo gwapo ka?"

He chuckled, muling humarap sa akin na parang unggoy na nakakapit sa kanya.

"Sure bang hindi gwapo, sis?" his voice swayed and I frowned.

"S'yempre!" I exclaimed and he looked at me seriously, I gulped. "...oo."

His laughter roared, ngumuso ako roon at napailing.

"Ang rupok naman, Ma'am." He teased. "Ang rupok-rupok."

Ngumiwi ako, naiirap nanaman.

"So...my baby can't swim?"

"Taga-lakad lang ako sa gilid ng pool." Biglang sumbong ko. "Well, I tried! Pero mukha
lang akong palakang lumalangoy!" I sulked.
He bit his lower lip, mula sa baywang ay umangat ang kamay n'ya sa pisngi ko para
alisin ang tumabing na basing buhok.

My heart hammered inside my chest, I saw his eyes landed on my lips.

His hand fell on my cheek, down to my parted lips and my breathing labored.

"Augustine..." I whispered.

He moved his face closer and lifted his head until our faces touched.

"Yes, Ma'am?" he asked huskily and my throat dried up.

"Kiss me," I said breathlessly.

I saw the harsh gulped he did when his adam's apple moved. His breathing fasten too.

"August...please." I gasped, "kiss me, kiss me..." I chanted softly.

His finger touched my lower lip back and forth and I caught it with my lips. He was
stunned when I kissed his finger.

Namungay ang mata n'ya at mas lumakas ang loob ko at mula sa balikat n'ya ay
inangat ko ang kamay ko papunta sa daliri n'ya sa labi ko. I took it and looked at his
eyes as I licked and suck his finger.

"Fuck, Ma'am..." he said huskily and I gasped when one move and he tilted my jaw and
claimed my lips harshly.
Mabilis ang pagkabog ng puso ko. My eyes shut when our lips touched, my hand went
on his wet hair, grasping it while kissing him back.

Sa kabila ng lamig ng gabi at ng tubig mula sa pool ay ramdam na ramdam ko ang init
ng kanyang labi at katawan. I parted my mouth, accepting his French kisses. Tongue to
tongue, we fought, sumisinghap na ako para sa hangin pero hindi nagbibitaw ang labi
namin.

Halos lumubog na ako sa pool pero mabilis n'ya akong nasala. He scooped my butt,
kissing me more. I encircled my legs back on his waist, still pulling his hair for the deep
kisses.

Wala na akong pakialam sa paligid, my lips were glued to his, I felt his hand caressed
my butt and I felt how heat flew throughout my body.

"S-sir..." I gasped when our lips separated, akala ko ay tapos na pero muli akong
napapikit nang bumaba ang halik n'ya sa panga ko.

His kisses are teasing, I can feel the warmth of his lips.

"Shit, Tin..." I gasped when he licked my jaw down my neck, his hand scooping my butt
to prevent me from falling down the pool is stiff yet his other hand found its way towards
my bikini.

I groaned when he cupped my boob, kneading it softly.

"Fuck..." I hissed.
I lowered my head and saw him kissing the space in between my boobs, I licked my lip,
looking at how hot he looked while kissing my skin.

"K-kiss, Tin..." I muttered and moments later, we were kissing fervently again, non-stop.

I felt his hand slipped on my bikini, napasinghap ako nang maramdaman ang daliri n'ya
roon. He placed it in between his thumb and twirled it a bit and I felt like convulsing.

I purred. His kisses went near my earlobe, licking the back of my ear, whispering things.

"I-I wanted to kiss you," I muttered.

"I wanted to do more, Ma'am." He whispered and grinned at me.

My lips protruded but it parted the moment he dipped his head and sucked my breast.

Hindi ko inaasahan iyon. My eyes widen while watching half of his head underwater,
sucking my peaks.

"August..." I gasped, my toes almost curled. "Fuck it...more!"

Umangat ang mukha n'ya, nakita ko ang pilyong kislap ng mata at ngumisi.

"I heard that, Ma'am." He teased.

"Damn you, Augustine..." I hissed and glared at him. "Why did you stop?!"
His laughter roared. "Alright, Ma'am, chill..."

I watched his hand touching my breast underwater, teasing it. suminghap ako nang
matantong iniangat n'ya ang bikini ko.

"P-pervert ka, sis..." I said, catching my breath.

"Only to you, my baby." He smirked and watched my face while he's touching my peaks.

"A-August...ah!" I hissed. "Stop teasing me!" I groaned.

"Hmm, your tits taste good, Ma'am." He said.

Seryoso ko s'yang tinitigan at humagalpak s'ya, nang-aasar.

"Suck it again o ilulubog ko 'yang mukha mo, sis?" I hissed.

"Alright, chill." He gave me a quick chaste kiss before he lowered his head again and
continue sucking my peaks.

Mababaliw na ata ako, my eyes closed when I felt his tongue and teeth. Humigpit ang
hawak ko sa kanyang balikat.

It was my first time being touched in the intimate part of mine yet...I can say that it's
superb. Great. Ten over ten.
"Engineer? Architect? Ito na po ang pagkain n'yo." I froze, nanlaki ang mata ko nang
marinig ang pagbubukas ng pintuan papasok sa pool area.

"Damn!" I hissed, sa panic ko ay hinatak ko ang buhok ni Augustine pataas kaya

napasinghap s'ya.

"Fuck? What?" he gasped, basing-basa ng tubig ang mukha.

"M-may..."

"Uy, Engineer, magandang gabi po, ito na 'yong—"

"Damn," mabilis akong niyakap ni Warren habang nagpapanic akong nag-ayos ng bikini
ko.

"Engineer? Ayos lang kayo?" I heard the man.

"Y-yeah," Warren hid me more.

"'Yong pagkain po—"

"Leave it there,"

"Lagay ko na lang po—"

"No, leave it." Warren's hard voice said and the man became quiet, ramdam ko ang
tingin sa akin kaya mas nagtago ako sa dibdib ni Warren.
"S-sige, Engineer." I heard his voice.

"Alright, thank you." Warren said.

"Welcome po." Ani nito.

Nang marinig ko ang pagsara ng pintuan ay suminghap ako at pinalo ang likod ni
Warren.

"Augustine!" I hissed.

"He didn't see you, baby." He chuckled, kissing the side of my head.

Lumayo ako sa kanya, he touched my waist and with my flushing cheeks, I glared at
him.

"What?" he asked, amused.

"D-did we just make out?" I asked and his lip twitched.

"Yes, Ma'am. Laban ka?"

I pouted, nahihiyang napanguso.

"I'm shy," I whispered and he chuckled and touched my cheek.

"I like you, Scira." He said and I froze, nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya, nabibigla pa
rin sa salitang iyon. "You like me too?"

"Jerk, s'yempre!" I sulked and his lip twitched.

"Lemme hear it, Ma'am." He tilted his head, his eyes shining with amusement.

"Are you teasing me?" I spatted.

"Nah, why would I tease the woman I like?" he caressed my lower lip. "Hindi lang gusto,
gustong-gusto..."

"Bolero, kung hindi lang kita sister, feeling ko playboy ka!" I scolded and he smirked.

"Stop changing the topic, Ma'am. I want an I like you too."

Sumimangot ako pero ngumisi s'ya kaya suminghap ako.

"Oo na, gusto kita." I said. "Palagi ko namang sinasabi sa'yo na I like you pero let me
tell you again."

"Hmm," he looks attentive.

"I like you, Augustine." I said. "Deeply, kahit hindi pa sobrang tagal...komportable ako
sa'yo."

I saw his serious face while looking at me and my heart swelled.

"What?" I asked.

"Ang ganda mo," he smiled and my lips protruded.

"Gwapo ka rin," I said and brushed his wet hair. "Kahit sister kita, ang gwapo-gwapo
mo, Miranda."

"I wouldn't promise anything because I hate promises, they are always bound to be
broken." He said and my forehead creased.

"Why?" I asked and he glanced at me and spoke.

"Well, I hate that word." He said. "My parents promised they'd be back for me but they
never did."

I froze, umawang ang labi ko sa gulat sa sinabi n'ya.

"You..."

"It's my birthday and...they said they have business to attend that very day."

"W-Warren..." I called and touched his face.

"I waited...masama ang loob ko dahil birthday ko iyon pero nag-antay ako."
I bit my lip when I saw him smiled sadly, "they promised me they'll be back but they
didn't."

"W-what happened?" I asked softly and stared at his eyes.

"May sumalpok sa sasakyan, drunk driving." He said and my mouth parted.

"S-sorry, Tintin." I said, slowly hugging him.

I heard his loud breath intake, naramdaman ko ang mahigpit n'yang yakap sa akin.

"It's long time ago, baby." He whispered weakly.

"Still..." I whispered. "Just remember that I am here for you, hmm? Not just a kumare, I
am here because I like you, as a man."

"W-woman, sis." He corrected me, lifting the mood and I chuckled.

"Whatever, Sir. I like you, as a man or woman, whatever. Basta gusto kita." I said and
caressed his hair.

"I like you too, Ma'am." He whispered. "I wouldn't promise but I will try my best to keep
you happy and safe. I'll be a man for you, I'll make you smile, I won't be a nagger! I
promise!"

Nangiti ako, "you won't become like my exes?"

"I will never be your ex, baby." He said. "Damn them, I would never let you choose
about anything because it is your decision to make. Not mine. Your life, your decision."

"G-ganyan ka ba talaga sa lahat?" I asked.

"I was never a lesbian, Valderama. Sa'yo lang kakalampag." He whispered.

I bit my lip. "I promise to be good to you too, babawasan ko na pagiging bitch." I said.

"Be bitchy all you want, I like you, Scira. The whole you. Never change to someone
you're not because other people tells you to."

I smiled and bit my lip, "kahit I become a bit bitchy and pa-baby at times?"

"Uh-hmm, but of course, Sir would have to discipline you at times kapag hindi na tama."

"Okay!" I cheered. "P-palagi ba akong may kiss, Mars?"

"Always, sis. Bet ko iyang bikini mo, bongga ang dibdib, bilog na bilog parang bola." He
chuckled.

"Augustine!" I exclaimed and he laughed.

"What?"

"Wala lang, gusto mo ulit i-touch? Natural iyan." I said and his laugher roared.

"Later, baby." He chuckled and kissed my head. "I'll try to give you what you want, I'll
take care of you."
My heart swelled, naiiyak na nga ata ako kaya lumayo ako at sumulyap sa kanya.

"P-pero, sis, 'di tayo mag-jowa..." I said and he was stunned.

Kabanata 11

I couldn't sleep. Kanina pa ako paikot-ikot sa kama pero hindi ako makatulog, nakausap
ko pa si Mom sa telepono pero wala pa rin.

I glanced at the clock and it's already one in the morning. I sighed, umupo sa malaking
kama at sumulyap sa paligid.

I tried sleeping again, nagpatugtog pa ako ng music sa phone pero wala pa rin.

In the end, I decided to stood. Sumulyap sa pintuan bago lumabas at nagtungo sa

kwarto ni Warren.

I stood there, sighing. Inangat ko ang kamay ko para kumatok pero hindi pa sumasayad
ang kamay ko sa pintuan ay kaagad iyong bumukas.

My eyes widen when the naked Warren filled my sight, he's only wearing his black
pajamas, barefoot. Nasa leeg pa n'ya ang dog tag at nagkatitigan lang kaming dalawa.

His hair is on his forehead. Nakita kong nagulat din s'ya nang makita ako.

"Ma'am?" he called.
"Uhm," I chuckled awkwardly, ibinaba ang kamay ko at ngumiti. "Hi, Sir."

His forehead creased, sumulyap s'ya sa kanyang wrist watch at bumaling sa'kin.

"Still...not sleeping?" he asked and I bit my lip and shook my head.

"I couldn't." I confessed and sighed. "you?"

"Can't too," he said lazily.

Nagkatinginan kami, ngumuso ako at suminghap.

"Well, uhm..." I chuckled and waved at him, nahiya na. "Anyway, bye na. B-balik na ako
sa kwarto."

I turned my back on him, ready to go back to my room when a grip stopped me. Mabilis
akong napalingon sa likuran at nakitang si Warren iyon.

"H-hmm?" gulat man ay nilingon ko s'ya.

I saw him licked his lip, smiling shyly.

"P-perhaps, you wanna sleep with me?" he asked.

My throat dried up. Suminghap ako at nakita kong napakurap s'ya at muling nagsalita.
"I mean..." he muttered. "Sleep beside me, not really doing it—"

I laughed, nakita kong namula si Warren kaya umayos ako ng tayo at hinawakan ang
pisngi n'ya.

"Hmm, sis?"

"H-huh?" he blinked.

"Sure, let's sleep together." I said. His mouth parted. "Literal, okay? Just lying beside
you?"

"O-oh..." he sighed and nodded. "Okay."

I lowered my hand, nangiti ako nang hinuli n'ya ang daliri ko at pinagsaklop ito. He
pulled me slowly inside his room at habang naglalakad s'ya ay hindi ko maiwasang
titigan ang likod n'ya.

He's muscular, matangkad at halatang hindi pasarap sa buhay kahit noong bata pa. I
can feel his calloused hand on my palm and a smile left my lips. He's a hard worker.

Sana all, tina-trabaho.

I suddenly frowned.

What the hell are you thinking, Scira? Are you seriously becoming a maniac?
Bumitaw sa akin si Warren, magrereklamo sana ako pero nakita kong pinatay n'ya ang
ilaw kaya naupo na lang ako sa kama.

I hugged his pillow, itinaas ko ang paa sa kama habang nakasandal sa headboard.

I watched Warren took his white shirt on the couch and I pouted. His muscle stretched
when he attempted to wear the shirt and I gasped.

"No!" I exclaimed. He stopped, naipasok na n'ya sa leeg ang shirt at sumulyap sa akin.

"Hmm?"

"Shirt, no." I shook my head and smelled the pillow with his scent.

"Hmm?"

"Don't wear your shirt, Tintin." I muttered and he just stared at me. "I mean, I want you
topless and—"

He suddenly chuckled, napanguso ako roon pero hindi rin naman n'ya muli pang sinuot
ang shirt, inilapag n'ya iyon sa kama at napasinghap ako sa biglaang pagluhod n'ya sa
kama at paglapit sa akin.

My eyes widen, nanuyo ang lalamunan ko nang makitang halos magdikit na ang mukha
namin dahil sa lapit n'ya. I can smell his minty breath, napalunok ako nang mapatitig sa
itim n'yang mga mata.

"You're turning into a pervert, Ma'am." He said teasingly and I froze.

"Warren!" I hissed and smacked his arm.

He laughed boyishly, mabilis n'yang nahalikan ang dulo ng ilong ko at napanguso ako
nang agawin n'ya sa akin ang unan na yakap ko at s'ya ang pumalit.

My heart thumped. I find it really adorable when he hugged me instead.

"You're such an adorable baby," I whispered, hugging him back.

"Baby mo?" he asked, sa laking tao n'ya ay natawa ako nang magsumiksik s'ya sa leeg
ko. His hands are wrapped on my waist, burying his face on my neck.

"Baby ko," lambing ko at hinaplos ang buhok n'ya. "Sis ko, kumare ko at...Sir ko?"

He chuckled, I felt his kisses on my neck and it made me smile.

I can feel the warmth inside my chest being this close to him. I kissed his head and
hugged him back.

"Bakit hindi ka makatulog?" I asked and he slowly rose from my neck.

Napatawa ako nang mabilis s'yang nakahiga sa tabi ko at hinila ako palapit sa kanya.
He stretched his arm, letting me rest my head on it and I lifted my head to give him a
kiss.

Namungay ang mata n'ya, I smiled.

Kahit na lampshade lang ang nagsisilbing liwanag ay hindi pa rin maiiwasang mapuri ko
ang ka-gwapuhan n'ya. I caressed his jaw down his neck before I hugged him.

"Tin..." I hummed.

"Hmm?" he whispered, yumakap din pabalik sa akin.

"Bakit hindi ka makatulog?" I asked.

"Don't know, just thinking of you, I guess?" he said and I smiled.

"Crush na crush mo ako, ah?" I teased and he chuckled, marahang humaplos sa likuran
ko at nagsalita.

"Well, I am thinking of you." He whispered.

"Oh, is it something nasty—"

"Scira!" he scolded and I laughed, dinama ko ang init ng katawan n'ya.

"Kidding, Sir!" I looked at his eyes and grinned. "Unless..." I teasingly put his hand on
my breast.

"F-fuck, Scira Rosalie!" he exclaimed, namula ang mukha at parang napapasong inilayo
ang kamay n'ya.
"Luh, pa-demure!" I chuckled and he just glared at me.

"I just can't believe you straightened me like a freaking ruler, Scira." Aniya na
nakasimangot kaya natawa ako at hinawakan ang panga n'ya.

"Who can resist me?" I asked boastfully. "Sa alindog kong ito?"

"You..." he shook his head. "Porket alam mong patay na patay ako sa'yo."

Mas lumawak ang ngiti ko.

"Well...I am actually thinking if it's true but then..." ngumisi ako. "Galing na mismo sa
bibig mo, Mars."

He frowned, maya-maya pa'y hinawakan ang dibdib.

"Sinasamantala mo ang kahinaan ko, sis." He said dramatically, touching his chest and
I giggled, hinuli ko ang labi n'ya para sa isang halik at walang pasubaling gumanti s'ya
sa akin ng halik.

We kissed like horny teenagers, he bit my lower lip and touched my nape, tilting my
head a bit so he could kiss me deeply.

My hands were on his nape, slowly tugging his hair to suppress my moan. I can feel the
heat his kisses brought throughout my body. He pulled me more to his body, I gasped
when I felt him lifted me a bit.

Now I am on top of him, nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita ang ngisi n'ya.
"Y-you! Nilalandi mo ako!" I hissed when I realized our position.

He chuckled, humawak s'ya sa baywang ko at ngumuso ako, nakaupo sa t'yan n'ya.

"I am not doing anything," he smirked, sumunod ang tingin ko sa kamay n'ya nang
hinawakan n'ya ang strap ng night dress ko at inakyat pabalik sa balikat ko.

"For a retired gay, 'yong mga galawan mo pang-playboy." I accused.

His laughter roared, I rolled my eyes when he pinched my cheek and pulled me back.
Napadapa ako sa dibdib n'ya kaya suminghap ako at pinalo s'ya.

"Augustine!" I groaned.

"What if hindi nga ako bakla?" he asked seriously and I stared at him and shrugged.

"Yari ka sa'kin," I muttered, ipinatong ang braso ko habang nakamasid sa mukha n'ya.

He didn't say anything, ang isang kamay n'ya ay nanatili sa baywang ko habang ang isa
ay humahaplos sa pisngi ko.

"What will you do?" he asked, I noticed the worry in his eyes kaya napaisip ako.

"I dunno," I shrugged. "I'll probably be mad?"

His lip pursed while staring at me.

"Hmm," he hummed, nabakas ko ang kung ano sa mukha n'ya kaya nagsalita ako.

"Why are you asking?"

"Nothing," he answered.

"But you looked worried, are you lying to me?" I asked and I saw him stopped, kumunot
ang noo ko roon pero kaagad na nawala nang umiling s'ya.

"No, of course not." He slowly took me back on his arms and hugged me. "Why would I
lie to you?"

Lumuwang ang paghinga ko, I lifted my head to look at him and saw his deep, black
eyes.

"I knew it," I smiled happily. "You wouldn't lie to me, Tintin pa ba?"

He nodded and smiled, hindi kami nag-usap ng ilang sandali hanggang sa naramdaman
ko ang malalim n'yang paghinga.

"Tin?" I suddenly called while his face is on my hair.

"Yes?" he called and I sighed.

"Is it okay if I ask you questions?" I asked and slowly, he moved, he nodded the
moment our eyes met.

"Sure, what is it, Ma'am?" he smiled softly.

"It's okay if you don't answer kasi it's personal, I just...I'm curious about you."

"Sure, baby. Ask me away."

I cleared my throat and smiled, "uhm, you said earlier na your parents died?" he nodded
and removed a few strands of my hair on my cheek.

"How old are you back then?" I asked.

"Fifteen?" he answered me. "I remembered waiting for them, kahit tapos na ang
birthday ko at hating-gabi na but they didn't come back."

"Sinong kasama mo sa birthday mo?" I asked softly and my heart ache when I saw his
sad eyes.

"My cousin," he smiled. "Vioxx and his cousins."

"Hindi mo cousin?" I asked and he shook his head.

"No, Vioxx is my cousin. You know Zire's fiancée, right?"

"Wave?" I said and he nodded.

"He's partly a Miranda too kaya he's a cousin, 'yong pinsan nila kasama rin noong
birthday ko, bale, I think we're six people." He chuckled.

"Masaya rin, mababait sila?"

"Hmm," he nodded. "They're like my childhood friends, hindi kami magkaka-edad pero
mga may saltik ata lahat kaya naging magkakasundo."

I chuckled, nakita ko ang pagtaas ng sulok ng labi n'ya roon.

"Oh, I'm curious tuloy. I wanted to meet them!" I cheered but it faded when he glared at
me.

"May mga babae na 'yon, Valderama." He hissed and it made me laugh.

"What? I'm just curious!" I exclaimed.

"Wave has a fiancé, your cousin. Caspian has a girlfriend, Warrion too. Si Vioxx, ewan
ko sa gagong 'yon, nagwawaldas ng pera sa jowa n'ya tapos 'yong tang inang
Castanier, nasa dagat palagi, shokoy na ata." He explained, poker face.

"Oh my God!" I laughed and shook my head. "I was just asking, you are such a bully,
Augustine!"

"You're such a bully, Augustine." He mocked me and rolled his eyes and I chuckled and
smacked his arm.
"Attitude ka, Mars?" I hissed, laughing.

"Ako ang topic, sis, ah?" he spatted. "Baka nakakalimutan mo ang batas ng mag-
kukumare?"

"What?" I laughed and shook my head.

He frowned, bitchesa nanaman at tinuro ako. "Let's say the rule together."

"R-really?" halos mag-init ang pisngi ko sa kakatawa.

"Isa, Scira Rosalie. Sasabihin mo o wala kang halik?" he threatened and I pouted and
spoke.

"Okay, game..." I cleared my throat.

"Ang magkukumare, stays forever, lalandi together." We recited and I laughed harder.

I shook my head, nag-iinit na ang pisngi sa kakatawa habang umiirap-irap s'ya roon.

"Revised version iyon, sis." He hissed in a girly voice.

"O-oh? What's the original version?" I asked and he cleared his throat and answered.

"Sa pederasyon may batas, ang magkukumare bawal humarot, oh bawal humarot, pero
pag sinabi, kapag nag-comply ka, kapag may ginawa kang ipinagbabawal nila, inayos
mo ang law sa pederasyon tapos sinubmit mo...tapos kapag kay Mareng Tintin lang, ay
pwede na ikaw pala humarot." He pointed out.

Kung malakas ang tawa ko kanina ay mas lumakas pa ngayon. Alas-dos na ng

madaling-araw pero para kaming may sariling mundong dalawa.

He smirked when he saw me laughing my ass out.

"Fuck shit ka, Augustine, 'di ko na-gets..." I laughed and I saw him chuckling too.

"I don't get it either," he muttered at sabay kaming natawa roon na parang mga baliw.

That night, wala akong naisip na kahit ano kung hindi ang saya habang kausap s'ya.
We talked about our lives, kung paano s'ya tumira kasama si Vioxx, ang pinsan n'ya
kaya parang naging kapatid na rin n'ya ito.

He was young when he lost his parents yet he worked hard to finish his studies and
passed his boards. Now, he has his own house and large shares from Miranda Firm.
Noon ay nakikitira kina Vioxx pero bumukod noong nakabangon.

I loved how hard-working he is.

I know my parents would be glad knowing him, una dahil mabuti s'yang tao at sigurado
akong responsible.

We talked about our lives, how he hated promises and how I hated lies. That night,
napuno lang kami ng tawanan at ilang minutong harutan. Kahit bawal ang harutan ng
mag-kumare ayon sa batas ng pederasyon, kapag s'ya raw, pwede na raw ako
humarot.
I woke up on his arms, I opened my eyes and saw his handsome face. The sunrays are
escaping from the white curtains.

Sumulyap ako sa mukha n'ya at napangiti.

What a good way to start the morning...

I lifted my hand, touched his cheek down his jaw. He looks so soft while sleeping pero
ang tapang ng pagkakahulma sa kanyang mukha.

His hair is falling freely on his forehead, matangos pa ang ilong at mas humaba ang
nguso ko nang makita ang pilik-mata n'ya.

I measured my eyelashes and his to compare.

"Why life is so unfair?" I asked. "Hindi n'yo naman ginagamit pilik-mata n'yo pero bakit
mas mahaba?" reklamo ko.

I frowned but it faded when his lips suddenly tugged for a smile.

"Our babies will have my eyelashes, Ma'am, don't worry." He suddenly said, opening his
eyes.

"You!" Pinalo ko ang braso n'ya.

He suddenly laughed and touched his arm. "Aww, baby, it's early in the morning yet
you're bullying me?"
"You startled me!" I exclaimed and he smirked and pulled me softly to his body.

"Good morning, beautiful..." he whispered, kissing my forehead.

I smiled, dinama ko ang init ng katawan n'ya. Lumandas ang kamay ko sa hubad n'yang
dibdib at napapangisi pa.

"Good morning, sis kong pogi na bet din ang pogi." I said and moved a bit to check out
his abdomen.

"Scira..." he warned and I giggled, umawang pa ang labi nang makita ng maliwanag ang
abs n'ya.

"Wow, Sir, sarap naman n'yan." I whispered.

"Valderama," he warned again but I don't care, inangat ko pa ang kamay ko at

humawak doon.

"W-what..."

"Wow, kape na lang ang kulang, agahan na." Hagikhik ko. "Tara, bilangin natin." I said
in a small, teasing voice.

"Ako ngayon si Dora, ang galang chikadora." I laughed.

"Isa," I started, marahang pinaraan ang kamay ko roon and I giggled when I felt him
froze.
"Architect..." he said in a whisper.

"Shut up, my Engineer." I whispered and gave him a quick peck on the lips to shut him
up.

"Dalawa, tatlo, apat..." I giggled while watching him gulped harshly. "Lima, anim..."

I glanced at his eyes, I saw how dark and serious it is. His jaw clenched, tila nagtitimpi
kaya mas ngumisi ako at humaplos sa t'yan n'ya.

"Tapos na po tayo magbilang, mga Kumare!" I chuckled and winked at him.

"At ang abs ni Kumareng Tintin ay...anim!" I cheered, giggling but it faded when he tilted
my chin and gave me a sudden kiss.

It was just a chaste one at first, akala ko ay tapos na pero muli n'ya akong hinila para sa
mas malalim pang halik.

I was never this intimate with my exes, we kissed, yes, but I never tried sleeping beside
them kahit may pagkakataon kaya everything that's happening to the both of us is new
to me.

Kung ganitong halik ba naman ang almusal ko sa umaga, aba't busog-lusog talaga ako!

I moaned when he bit my lower lip, I immediately parted my mouth, accepting his deep
kisses. Naramdaman ko ang pag-angat n'ya kaya napasinghap ako at hinalikan s'ya
pabalik.
I placed my hand on his shoulder, gasping for air as we exchange deep, sultry kisses.

His dog tag fell on my chest when he kissed my cheek, I licked my lip while looking at
his sculptured and lean body while he's kneeling in between my parted legs. Ipinaikot ko
ang hita ko sa baywang n'ya.

"We shouldn't be doing this," he whispered, kissing my neck and cupping my breast.

"I-I agree," hinahapo kong sabi, mahinang dumadaing habang nararamdaman ang init
ng palad n'ya sa dibdib ko kahit natatabunan ng damit.

"Hmm, right. We shouldn't." He muttered, lowering my night dress and my throat dried
up when I realized my peaks are now out.

"T-tama," bulong ko at tinulak ang ulo n'ya. "S-suck it, August."

"Fuck, yeah." He muttered and I purred when he lowered his head and sucked my
peaks.

My toes curled, humigpit ang hawak ko sa balikat n'ya. I saw his eyes landed on me,
glancing at me while he sucked my breast.

"S-shit, Mars..." I muttered.

"Tastes fucking good," he said huskily and I easily felt dizzy when I saw his tongue
flickered on my peaks, making me watch how good it is.
Nawawala na ako sa sarili, I gasped when I felt like convulsing, hinatak ko s'ya palapit
at hinuli ng halik ang labi n'ya.

We exchanged kisses like it is the last time, sapo ko ang pisngi n'ya at nakapatong ang
braso n'ya sa gilid ng ulo ko.

"Hello, magandang umaga! Pagkain n'yo mga Sismars!" We both stopped when we
heard a voice.

"Fuck," he muttered.

I felt so empty all of the sudden, hinila ko ang dog tag ni Warren para muling humingi ng
halik pero may kumatok nanaman sa pintuan.

"Sorry sa istorbo, mga sis, pero malamig na ang breakfast n'yo!"

"Damn, Miranda." He suddenly hissed and our eyes met.

"Y-your cousin?" I asked and he groaned and nodded.

"Yes, fuck..." he muttered and glanced at me. "You should take a bath first, Ma'am, then
go out to eat. I ordered our breakfast."

"But, August..." I whined.

"I wanted kisses too, baby." He cursed again. "But that fucker..." he pointed the door.
"Yuhoo! Gising na! Malamig na pagkain n'yo, mga sis!" Kalampag ulit sa pintuan.

"Won't stop until I fucking punch his face," he said, straight face and ayaw ko man, I
sighed.

"Okay," I said sadly.

He brushed his hair with his fingers, nagkatinginan kaming dalawa at sabay na
napabuntong-hininga.

"I promise to kiss you again later," he negotiated and I pouted and nodded.

"Okay, Tin." I muttered.

"Come on, Ma'am, cheer-up." He chuckled huskily, kissing my lips again and removed
his hand on my breast.

Bagsak ang balikat ko habang inaalalayan n'ya ako paupo at inaayos ang damit ko, he
combed my hair with his fingers and caressed my cheek.

"Take a bath, baby," he chuckled when he saw my face.

"Kiss ko, Tintin." I whined, kicking my feet.

"Alright, Sha-sha," he smirked and gave me a quick kiss again. "I'll give you more later,
hmm?"
"Hmm, ow-kay..." I said in a small voice and flashed a smile.

"I'll put your clothes here in the bed, ako na ang bahala sa gunggong na 'yon." He
smiled and brushed my hair.

"Naligo ka na?" I asked and he smiled and nodded.

"Hmm, I woke up early." He answered.

"Then, bakit hindi mo ako ginising?" I asked and he placed my hair behind my ear.

"Hmm, I don't have a heart to. I love watching you sleep." He said and touched my chin.
"You looked like an angel, kasi kapag gising ka dragon na—"

"Augustine!" I glared at him and he laughed and pinched my cheek.

I took a bath and cleaned myself, pinakialaman ko ang mga mamahaling shower gel
doon at kagaya ng dati ay matagal akong maligo.

It's normal, I think. Sa aming magkakapatid ay palaging ako ang huli maligo kasi halos
abutin ako ng isang oras sa kakakuskos pa lang.

S'yempre! I should look beautiful! Dapat mabango, hindi ko rin gets paano sila
nakakaligo ng mabilis, eh, skin care ko palang halos kalahating oras na!

Hindi na ako nagulat nang halos isang oras nga ako bago natapos maligo, hindi lang
inabot ng isang oras talaga kasi wala rito ang ilang gamit ko panligo pero matagal pa rin
kahit papaano.
I went out with my bathrobe and saw the dress I bought last night, kaagad akong
nagbihis at nag-ayos ng mukha at nang matapos mag-blower ng buhok ay kaagad
akong lumabas sa kwarto at bumaba sa hagdanan.

Wala pa sa kusina ay amoy na amoy ko na amoy ng agahan, I wonder if Warren

cooked foods again? Or iyon ang in-order n'ya?

I walked towards the kitchen, papasok na sana pero natigilan nang marinig ang
pangalan ko.

"You lied to Scira, Warren?" A baritone voice asked.

My forehead creased.

"Shut up, baka nand'yan na." I heard Warren's voice.

"Gago ka, Warren. Paano kung magalit 'yan? Nasabi sa'kin ni Warrion na ganoon ang
nangyari noon at inaasar ka pa namin, 'di ba? But we never thought you'll actually do
it?"

"I have no choice," he muttered. "It's my only way to be close to her."

"That's fucking insane, man. Paano kung malaman n'ya?"

"She wouldn't know, unless, someone would tell her." Sumilip ako at nakitang nagkibit-
balikat si Warren.
My shoulders fell, hindi ko pa rin masyadong makuha ang pinag-uusapan pero alam
kung may malaking kinalaman iyon sa akin.

"But I think you should tell her," the man said. "Bago pa maging magulo. You know what
happened between me and Sera, right? Lies often break two people apart. You know it."

"I know, Vioxx..." Warren muttered. "I just don't know how to start telling her that I lied.
She hates liars."

"Gago ka kasi, sa lahat ba naman ng kalokohan mo pagiging bakla pa ang napili mo?"

"I was joking around Warrion and she saw it, I thought that's a good start so I could get
close to her."

I gasped, nanginig ang kamay ko sa narinig at tinakpan ang labi ko.

"I know I fooled her, by not telling her I am not really a gay but I don't know, hindi ko
alam kung kailan ako aamin o hahayaan ko na lang." He said and my knees wobbled
while hearing him.

I can't believe it...he fooled me. He fucking fooled me!

I suddenly felt down, nangilid ang luha ko at napaatras.

I don't know why am I hurting, is it because he lied? But a lot of people lied to me, it hurt
me but not to this extent.

Or am I hurting this much because it was him? It was August who lies?
Kabanata 12

Hindi ko alam kung paano ako nakalabas sa hotel room, hawak ko ang pouch ko at
tulala palabas, dala lamang ang pride na iniingatan ko.

With a heavy heart, I pressed the elevator door, nangilid ang luha ko at nanatiling
nakakuyom ang kamay ko.

He lied to me, he fucking lied to me!

I gasped, may mga taong pumasok sa elevator at napasulyap sa akin pero hindi ko sila
binigyan ng pansin. My body is shaking in anger and disappointment, gusto kong
magwala at sumigaw pero ni boses ay walang lumabas sa labi ko.

The elevator reached the ground floor, kahit nasa likuran ay inunahan kong lumabas
ang mga kasabay para lang makaalis sa lugar na ito.

I can feel the lump on my throat, only indicating I'm in the verge of crying.

"Oh, Scira, good morning!" I froze when I heard a voice, nagitla ako at napasulyap sa
paparating.

Caspian in a blue Armani suit walked towards me, smiling. Ang berdeng mga mata ay
nakangiti rin.

"C-Cas," I called and smiled.

"Maaga ang alis, ah? Si Mars?"

"Uhm," I cleared my throat, "I'm sorry but I have to go kasi, may urgent na gagawin."

"Oh, I see." He smiled. "Hindi kayo sabay?"

"No," I licked my lip and sighed a bit before flashing a smile. "Thanks for letting us stay
here, Cas. I enjoyed it."

His lip lifted for a smile, placing his hands on his pocket, he nodded.

"It's my pleasure," he smiled. "I wanted you to meet my Reev but maybe next time?"

"Sure," I smiled. "Uuna na ako, Salamat, Cas."

"No worries," he smiled.

He watched me while walking away, pagtalikod ko sa kanya ay kaagad na nawala ang

ngiti sa mga labi ko. My shoulder fell yet I managed to walk with my straight face back
to my place.

Tulala at wala sa sarili, muntik pa akong mahagip ng dumaan na sasakyan.

"Tumingin ka naman sa daanan mo, Miss!" the driver scolded me and I blinked and
stared at him.

"S-sorry po," I whispered and walked again, crossing the street.

The guard greeted me when I got inside the building, tipid akong tumango bago
nagsimulang maglakad ulit.

"Architect, magandang umaga!" Bati pa ng team na namataan kong kalalabas lang sa

restaurant.

"Good morning," I said and smiled before nodding.

Hindi na sila nagtanong nang mapansing wala ako sa mood makipag-usap, kaagad
akong dumiretso sa elevator puro may humawak kaagad sa aking braso.

"Scira! Saan ka galing? I've been looking for you since yesterday!" Lucas exclaimed.

Sa lakas ng boses n'ya ay napatingin sa amin ang guests at tenants kaya suminghap
ako at hinila ang braso ko sa kanya.

"Why do you care?" I asked nonchalantly and waited for my turn in the elevator.

"What the hell? I was here looking for you! Pero saan ka nagpupunta?" he hissed.

"H'wag ngayon, Lucas, pwede ba?" I massaged my temple and tightly closed my eyes.

"Bakit hindi? I am just worried na—"

"Stop it, I don't wanna hear any more bullshit lies today." I said and entered the elevator
when it's already my turn.
Dahil nasa huli nga ay kaming dalawa na lang ni Lucas ang nakapasok. Hindi ko alam
kung bakit sumusunod pa s'ya.

"I am not lying, Scira. I am just concern—"

"Shut up," I whispered.

"Bakit? Anong mayroon? Is that asshole Engineer did something—"

"Parehas lang kayong asshole," I whispered and he stopped.

"Excuse me, Valderama?" he hissed and his jaw clenched.

"Sige, daan na." I said coldly and shook my head.

"Stop being sarcastic with me!" his voice roared, mabuti na lang at walang tao dahil
nakakahiya s'ya. "kaya ka iniiwan dahil d'yan sa ugali mo—"

"Yes, because of my sick attitude, right?" I looked at him and raised my brow. "because
I am a control freak, perfectionist, bitch...ano pa?"

"Scira," he sighed. "I just wanted to say, you should start changing your attitude! Kaya
walang nagtatagal sa'yo—"

"Oh, come on, Lucas? Bugok ka ba?" I asked him and I saw how stunned he is.
"What..." he blinked.

"You keep on telling me about my sick attitude kaya walang nagtatagal sa akin, then,
tell me, bakit ka habol ng habol? Kung ayaw mo sa buto, pakawalan mo, pero bakit ka
humahabol? Aso ka ba?" I said straightforwardly.

"H-how dare you..."

"Fuck off, Lucas." I smirked at him. "Hindi ka kawalan sa pamilya ko and I would never
change this sick attitude of mine just to please dogs like you."

Nagbukas ang elevator at walang lingon akong naglakad. Hindi na rin nakalabas si
Lucas sa elevator kaya naging payapa ang pagbalik ko sa kwarto.

With my straight back and tilted chin, I walked with pride kahit walang nakakakita sa
akin, nawala nga lang ang lahat ng iyon nang makapasok ako sa kwarto ko at maisara
ang pinto.

Tahimik akong naglakad sa kwarto at nang makita ang kama ay pagod na napaupo at
sinipa paalis ang heels sa aking paa.

While staring at the empty room, I felt so weak. Parang lahat ng pride at ang lakas ng
loob kong makipag-sagutan ay nawala sa isang iglap na natagpuan ko na lang ang
sarili kong tulala at lumuluha.

My phone's ringing pero hindi ko iyon binigyan ng pansin.

I felt pain ever since the first time I entered a relationship. Maayos naman ang lahat dati
but then he lied to me, telling me I am the one pero sa huli, tatlo pala kami.
Shit, 'di ba? Scira Valderama, i-ta-timer? Sa ganda kong ito ginawa akong tanga.

That's when I started to know the game, I entered relationships, sometimes, to please
my parents. Kapag sinabi nilang mula sa magandang pamilya ang taong iyon at
magbibigay motibo sa akin, I am giving them the chance to prove themselves, kasabay
ng pagpapabango ko sa aking magulang.

My Mom never forced me to have a relationship with them, I just did. Una para maisip
nila na nasa mabuting kamay ako but little did I know, I began finding love in those
relationships yet it only failed in the end.

They would lie to me, cheat on me or they would tell me about this sick attitude of mine.

Tapos ngayon, kung kailan akong totoong nahulog sa isang tao ay lolokohin din pala
ako.

Déjà vu.

Ibinagsak ko ang ulo sa kama, nang tumunog muli ang phone ko ay iniangat ko iyon sa
ere at pagod na ngumiti nang makita ang caller.

Kumareng Tintin calling...

"Asshole, bakit ka ganito manakit, wala namang tayo." I muttered and turned my phone
off.
Hindi na ako nakaramdam ng gutom at nakatulog na umiiyak at masama ang loob.
Nalulungkot akong isiping mag-isa lang ako sa lugar na ito ngayon.

Maybe if I have this heartbreak and I have my cousins with me? This will be probably
another all-nighter with drinks, in another cousin's house of choice.

I woke up when it's near one in the afternoon, nagising akong yakap ang unan na may
mga tuyong luha, namamaga pa ang mga mata.

I shook my head, went inside the bathroom to wash my face and saw my swollen eyes.

"Shit, ang tagal ng skin care ko tapos iiyak lang ako sa lalaki." I talked to myself and
groaned.

Nagtungo ako sa kusina para humanap ng pagkain, I saw ready to eat canned goods
kaya ininit ko na lang iyon at inilagay sa bowl at lumabas sa sala.

The door bell rang, kaagad na kumalabog ang puso ko sa kaba pero nanatili akong
seryoso at compose.

I lowered the bowl first on the table before going to the door. Muling tumunog ang door
bell.

My heart started beating rapidly, I took a peek in the peep hole and my heart almost fell
when I saw Augustine outside, he's been walking back and forth, muling nag-door bell
at umigting pa ang panga.

In the end, I refused opening the door. Hindi ko na binalikan ang phone ko at tahimik na
nanuod na lang ng TV sa halip na mag-isip pa ng kung ano.
Pero hindi rin naman ako nakapag-focus sa panunuod dahil hindi talaga s'ya
natatahimik. The door bell kept on ringing kaya sa huli ay ibinaon ko na lang ang mukha
sa unan at hinayaang naka-open ang TV.

Nilakas ko pa ang volume at kinuha ang phone ko para magpatugtog na lang.

Sunod-sunod na text ang dumating at nakita ko ang iba roon.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Ma'am, where are you?

From: Kumareng Tintin

Did you leave? Wala ka na sa itaas.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Baby?

From: Kumareng Tintin

Caspian saw you, bakit hindi mo sinabing aalis ka na?

From: Kumareng Tintin

I'm sorry, I am not a nagger. I am just worried.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Are you there? Can we talk? Baby, please. Did I do something wrong?

A tear escaped, mabilis kong hinawi iyon at pagod na umiling.

Maybe, love isn't for me.

When night time came, doon ko na hindi napigilan ang gutom ko. I may be on diet but
still, my stomach is churning right now. Hindi naging sapat ang unhealthy at kakarampot
na ready-to-eat kong tanghalian kanina.

Nagbihis ako ng simpleng dress at sandals bago sumilip sa peep hole.

I heaved a relaxed sigh, confidently opened my door and froze the moment I stepped
outside and saw Warren sitting beside my door.

I gasped, huli na para bumalik dahil nagtagpo na ang mata naming at nakatayo na s'ya.

"Scira," he called.

I panicked inside but I calmed myself down, wala na akong magagawa dahil
nagkakitaan na kami. Instead, I closed my door quietly as I felt his presence beside me.
"M-ma'am," he called and touched my arm. "do we have a problem?"

Nangilid ang luha ko, I heard the desperation on his voice.

"B-baby," he called.

Slowly, I looked at him. Kaagad kong nakita ang lambot at takot sa mga mata n'ya.

"What?" I asked him coldly, depriving him to see any emotions in my eyes.

Nakita kong nabakas n'ya kaagad ang lamig nito, ang kamay n'ya sa braso kay ay unti-
unting bumaba sa palad ko at naramdaman ko ang pagpisil n'ya rito.

"I-I am worried, I looked for you earlier and didn't find you. I cooked us breakfast but
you're nowhere to be found." He muttered.

I licked my lips and remained quiet.

"I-I'm worried, maiintindihan ko naman kung nagmamadali ka, I can even take you here
as fast as I could, just tell me."

I remained looking at him and noticed how sincere his eyes are, walang bakas ng galit
ang boses n'ya sa pag-alis ko at pulos pag-aalala lang. his hair is disheveled, gusot pa
ang shirt na suot at pirmi ang labi.

"Hey, Ma'am. Talk to me." He whispered, staring at my eyes. "Did I do something

wrong?"
I gulped and felt the sting on my eyes.

"Baby," he called. "Tell me if I did wrong so I could do it right, please. Tell me, Scira,
please?"

The pain in his soft eyes reflected mine, hindi ko alam pero habang nakatitig sa mga
mata n'yang sinsero ay mas lalo akong nasaktan.

My tear fell, he cursed and I immediately felt his finger drying the tears on my cheek.

"Scira..."

"W-why did you lie to me?" I suddenly asked and I saw how he froze while looking at
me.

"D-did you..."

"I heard you," I whispered. "bakit, Warren? Why did you lie to me?"

"S-Scira," he cupped my cheek, I saw how pain reflected his eyes, nabakas ko rin ang
takot doon. "I-I'm sorry..."

"Why did you lie to me about yourself, hmm? Y-you know I hate liars, right?" my voice
broke, mas nalaglag ang luha sa mga mata ko.

"Scira,"
"Pinagkatiwalaan kita, eh!" I exclaimed and pushed him, nahulog ang kamay n'ya mula
sa aking pisngi kaya mas tumulo ang luha ko. "I trusted you yet you lied to me!"

"S-Scira, I-I have no choice, baby...I-I only wanted to be close to you." His eyes
flickered with pain.

"N-no," I shook my head. "You had the choice to tell me the truth yet, you chose to lie to
me."

His eyes fell on the floor, muli s'yang sumulyap sa akin at matapang ko s'yang tinitigan
sa kabila ng mga luha ko.

"I like you so much, Scira." He said sincerely, "tang ina, mahal na ata kita. Hindi ko
alam, mababaliw na ata ako." He pulled his hair frustratedly.

My heart ache, tumungo ako at umiling.

"B-bullshit, Augustine." I muttered.

"I-I love you," he confessed and walked towards me. "N-ngayon lang ako nakaramdam
ng ganito, I-I became desperate and grabbed the chance to be close to you."

I shook my head. "No,"

"L-let me explain, Scira." He said and tried touching my hand, mabilis ko s'ya naitulak at
marahas na umiling.
"H-h'wag ka ng lalapit sa akin." I said hardly.

"P-please," he said in a whisper. "I-I just want to be with you, h-have mercy on me."

"No," I whispered.

To my shock, he lowered his body and my eyes widen when he knelt in ground, his hair
fell on his forehead, nang tumingala s'ya sa akin ay nanlalaki ang mga mata ko.

"W-what are you doing..."

"P-please, g-give me a chance to make this right," he said in a low voice, umawang ang
labi ko nang makita ang kislap sa mga mata n'ya.

"W-Warren..."

"P-parang-awa mo na." he lowered his head.

My tears fell more, narinig ko ang mga yakap at napasinghap nang makitang may
daraan.

"T-tumayo ka r'yan," I called Warren but he only shook his head and lowered his head
more.

Pinagtinginan kami pero walang nagsalita sa mga dumaan at tahimik na lumagpas but I
saw the look on their eyes, telling me how cruel I am.
When they're gone, nanatiling nakaluhod si Warren doon pero ang puso ko'y tila bato, I
wanted to say yes but my gut tells I couldn't. Natatakot akong muling masaktan.

Like a poor kid, he remained there, unmoving, yet my heart is tough and cold as a
stone. Nasasaktan ako pero mas nangingibabaw ang takot kong muling masaktan.

"L-lies are lies, Augustine." I said weakly, "no matter the reason is, it still hurt me."

I left him there alone, heartless as may it seem but I turned my back on him and walked
away.

Scira, you really do have a sick attitude, hmm? A cold-hearted bitch.

Nagtungo ako sa elevator at hinalughog ang pouch ko para sa shades. I wore it and
watched the elevator door closed with the sight of kneeling Warren.

Hiding my swollen eyes, I walked towards the restaurant to eat. Wala masyadong tao
roon kaya mabilis akong naasikaso ng waiter na iginaya ako sa upuan malapit sa
bintana.

I settled there, inabutan ako ng menu na kaagad kong binuksan, I lowered my shades a
bit to read it. They're giving me weird stares, probably curious about me wearing shades
at night.

Bakit ba? Gusto kong mag-shades, mata n'yo? Mata n'yo?

"Waiter," I called and he came closer.

Sinabi ko ang orders ko at nang magpaalam s'ya ay tahimik akong sumulyap sa bintana
malapit sa akin at dinama ang malamig na hangin na tumatama sa mukha ko.

The sight of me leaving the kneeling man came rushing back, I felt the pain inside my
chest.

"Architect! Hello!" my eyes shifted and I gasped when I saw some members of my team
approaching.

Akisha, my secretary is with Anna. Nakangisi at kumakaway sa akin.

"O-oh, napadaan kayo?" I smiled.

"Kakain lang, Architect." Anna smiled at me.

"O-oh, sabay na tayo." I said.

"Sige po," naupo sila sa harapan ako at tahimik akong nakinig sa kanilang usapan
doon.

"Kumusta, Architect? Saan kayo kaninang off?" Anna called my attention kaya humarap
ako sa kanya.

"S-sa kwarto lang," I smiled.

"Oh, boring naman." Biro ni Akisha sa akin.

"It's okay, actually. I stayed in Casa Amara last night, swimming lang." I said and I saw
their mouths parted.

"Wow, talaga? Ang daya, hindi nag-aya!" Akisha muttered and I chuckled.

"Well, biglaan lang."

I saw them eyeing my sunglasses but didn't commented and respected me. Nawala
lang ang boses ko nang makita ang papasok sa restaurant.

My mouth parted a bit when I saw Warren entering, kaagad kong nakita ang tingin n'ya
sa akin kaya mabilis akong nag-iwas ng tingin, kumalabog ang puso ko at bumaling sa
mga kasamang nagtataka rin.

"Architect, anyway, nag-aya ang iba sa team na mag-bar mamaya? Happy-happy lang,
hapon pa naman po ang simula natin bukas." Ani Akisha kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya.

"N-now?" I asked, slowly glancing at Warren at the side, kinakausap na s'ya ng waiter
pero ang mata ay nasa amin.

Mabuti na lang ay naka-shades ako at hindi n'ya alam ang titig ko.

"Architect? Sinong tinitignan mo?" Anna asked and looked back kaya suminghap ako.

"Sige! Sige!" I exclaimed kaya bumalik ang tingin n'ya sa akin.

"Ganoon ba? Yehey! Sige, Architect, sakto iyang dress mo, pwede na tayo mag-party!"
She smiled.
I nodded and licked my lip, sumulyap ako sa gilid at nakitang madami ng tao sa resto, I
saw girls eyeing the quiet Warren on the side. May lumapit pa para kunwaring walang
maupuan pero nang umiling ang huli ay umalis din.

I smirked. Buti nga.

Our foods came and I am eating like I'm attending a marathon. I am super hungry,
tahimik ang dalawang nagke-kwentuhan, excited dahil sa convoy mamaya patungo sa
bar na sinasabi nilang malapit lamang dito.

Palihim akong sumusulyap kay Warren na tahimik na kumakain at kinagat ko ang labi
ko.

We finished eating and the girls are excited, nauna pa silang naglakad paalis dahil may
mga bagong sasama raw at madami-dami na kami. I straightened my dress, brushed
my hair and fixed my sunglasses.

Magkakapit ang braso ni Anna at Akisha at taas noo akong sumunod pero tila nanginig
ang tuhod ko nang mapadaan kami sa pwesto ni Warren.

"Engineer, hello!" Napasinghap pa ako nang mapansin s'ya nila Akisha.

Warren raised his head, I find him darkly handsome while doing that, sinuklay pa n'ya
ang buhok n'ya at tumayo.

"Miss Martinez," he smiled and I frowned.

"Engineer, mag-ba-bar kami mamaya, sama ka!" Anna smiled.

I saw Warren glanced at me kaya nag-iwas ako ng tingin.

"Samama si Architect!" Akisha cheered.

I gasped, "uh, uuna na ako sa labas." I said and turned my back, was about to go out
when I heard his voice.

"Architect," he called and I froze.

Aalis na sana ako at magpapanggap na walang narinig pero tinawag ako ni Anna.

"Architect, tawag ka ni Engineer!" Aniya kaya suminghap ako at unti-unting sumulyap.

"Y-yes?" kunwari ay gulat ko pang tanong.

"Pwede..." Warren looked at me intently and licked his lip. "ba akong sumama?"

I gasped, nakita kong nagulat din ang dalawa sa sinabi nito.

"S'yempre! B-bakit hindi?" I asked and turned my back on him.

Nauna na ako sa dalawa pero rinig ko ang pakikipag-usap nila kay Warren sa likuran. I
am confused for his question yet I couldn't say anything!
Mas nagulat pa ako nang malamang sumama rin ang ilan sa team ni Warren at sina
Lucas at ang team ko.

Kaagad na sumulyap sa akin si Lucas, his eyes are cold and I saw his eyes went to
Warren back to me.

"Scira," he called me and I looked away and did not answer him.

"Convoy na lang tayo, may mga kotse naman ang team ni Engineer, pasabay kami,
ah?" Akisha chuckled.

"Sure," tawanan nila.

Everyone is busy choosing where they would ride, tahimik akong nakatayo roon,
biglang nagsisi na sasama pa sa kanila dahil kasama rin pala ang mga ugok na mga
lalaki.

"Si Architect..." Anna said.

"May sasakyan ako, ako na magsasabay—" Lucas said but stopped when Warren
spoke.

"Sa akin s'ya," I felt him beside me kaya nilingon ko s'ya at kumunot ang noo ko.

"O-oh," I saw Anna's small, teasing smile.

"W-what?" I frowned at him, inalis ko pa ang shade ko at sumulyap sa kanya.

"No, sa akin sasabay ang girlfriend ko." Lucas said kaya gulat na humarap din ako sa
kanya.

"What?" I asked him. "I'm sorry but I broke up with you, Lucas."

Natahimik s'ya, I felt the awkward silence kaya tumikhim ako at umayos ng tayo,
sumulyap kay Warren Augustine na seryoso pero halatang nagtatago ng ngiti.

Aba...

Our eyes met and his smile faded, suminghap ako at umirap, sumulyap kay Lucas na
iritado ang tingin kay Warren.

"Sasabay ako kay Engineer Miranda," I said and walked away.

Luckily for me, apat kami sa kotse, may dalawang kasama si Warren na nakisabay kaya
hindi masyadong awkward. I played games on my phone instead, abala kaka-send din
ng text kay Ate Clyte dahil maghapong cannot be reached ang phone ko.

I saw Warren glancing at me from time to time yet I would just glare and rolled my eyes
on him.

Bahala s'ya sa buhay n'ya!

We reached the famous bar here and the girls are already wild and excited. Sa
paglabas ko sa sasakyan ay mabilis na humawak sa braso ko si Warren.

I glanced at him and raised my brow.

"A-aalalayan lang kita," he said.

"I don't need your help," I said and walked away.

Pagpasok pa lang ay kaagad ng pumailanlang ang malakas na tunog mula sa stereo.

Smokes are everywhere, amoy alak na kaagad pagkapasok ko kaya diretso akong
naglakad sa loob.

Habang abala ang mga lalaki sa paghahanap ng pwesto, nakatayo lang ako at
humalukipkip, may dumaang waiter sa harapan ko kaya mabilis akong kumuha ng shot
glass doon at lumagok.

I saw Warren eyeing me, wala s'yang sinasabi pero tinaasan ko s'ya ng kilay.

"Problema mo?" I asked and he gulped and shook his head.

"Nothing," he answered me.

Nang makahanap ng pwesto ay mas naging wild, nakakuha kaagad sila ng inumin at
miski ako na hindi masyadong nasa wisyong uminom ay napalaban.

Warren is sitting on the seat across mine, seryosong hawak ang baso ng beer at
nakatitig sa akin. Muntik pa nga s'yang makaupo sa tabi ko pero naunahan na s'ya ng
mga babae kaya roon na lang naupo. Seryoso ang tingin n'ya kay Lucas na nasa tabi
ko, umiigting ang panga at madilim ang titig.
I'm a bit tipsy after a few shots, I saw one woman from his team beside him. My
forehead creased when the woman whispered something to him, hindi ko marinig ang
usapan dahil sa lakas ng tugtog.

Warren glanced at her, mukhang hindi narinig at nakita ko ang hagikhik ng babae at
ang muling pagbulong, nakahawak na sa balikat n'ya kaya suminghap ako at nagmura.

I filled the glass with my drink, inisang tungga ko iyon at naramdaman ang hilo.

"Are you okay?" nagulat ako nang maramdaman ang kamay ni Lucas sa baywang ko.

"Get off me," I said weakly and glanced back to the people in front of me.

Ngumuso ako, kahit nahihilo ay nahuli ko ang pasimpleng hawak ng babae si braso ni
Warren habang bumubulong kaya humaba ang nguso ko sa inis. I saw the woman
whispered something and I saw the sly smile formed on his lips.

This jerk...bakla raw pero lalaking-lalaki ang hayop!

"Let's dance!" I declared and I saw how Warren shifted his gaze at me.

The girls screamed in excitement, nauna na sila pababa sa dancefloor at nakita ko ang
seryosong tingin sa akin ni Warren.

I raised my brow, flipped my hair and followed the girls. Kumuha pa ng dalawang shot
sa dumaang waiter at nilagok iyon.
Sumunod ang mga lalaki, hindi ko na sila nilingon at dumiretso kami sa dancefloor para
makipagsayawan.

The DJ's been playing an upbeat remix, sumasabay ang tunog ng kanta sa pagsayaw
ng makukulay na ilaw sa itaas. The smoke were added for the thrill.

Nahihilo na ako but the song's beat made me sway my hips. I suddenly missed my night
life in Manila with my cousins, sumayaw ako kasama ang mga babae na
nagkakatuwaan.

I'm drunk, I think, medyo umaalon na kasi ang tao sa dancefloor.

"Woah! Go, Architect!" the girls cheered.

I chuckled yet moved my hips more, someone put his hands on my waist. Lumingon ako
at nakitang Amerikano iyon na kaagad na ngumisi sa akin.

"Hello, beautiful." He said, almost raising his voice so I could hear him.

I smiled, sumulyap ako nang mapansing may nakatingin at halos umirap nang makita si
Warren sa itaas, nakahawak sa barandilya, hawak pa rin ang baso ng alak at madilim
na nakamasid.

His eyes are dark, umiigting pa ang panga, hindi na kinakausap ang babaeng kanina pa
humaharot.

Huh, ano ka ngayon, Augustine?

"Hello, handsome," sagot ko sa kano at ipinatong ang braso ko sa balikat nito.

He's handsome, he danced with me playfully and nakisama rin ako. I danced but
stopped when I felt his malicious touch on my butt.

Natigilan ako, nawala ang ngiti ko at napaayos ng tayo.

I felt him groped me again from behind, nanlaki ang mata ko roon.

"What the hell are you doing?!" I pushed him.

"What, come on, Missy." He smirked at me and pulled my arm. "How about we mess
around later?"

"Fuck you!" I slapped his cheek and he froze, natigil ang iilang nagsasayaw sa
komosyon.

"How dare you...you little bitch!" he is in the verge of raising his hand when an attack
stopped him, bumagsak kaagad s'ya sa lapag at sa gulat ko ay nakitang si Augustine
ang sumuntok sa kanya.

My eyes widen. Isang suntok ay bulagta na ang lalaki sa lapag at nagkakagulo na ang
tao. I met Warren's eyes, tatlong malalaking hakbang ay mabilis na n'yang kinuha ang
kamay ko at hinila ako palayo sa lugar.

I am dizzy, nasalubong pa namin si Lucas na humarang kaagad.

"Where are you bringing her? Ako ang mag-uuwi sa girlfriend—"

"Shut up, fucker. She's mine." Mariing sabi ni Warren at muli akong hinila.

I closed my eyes, hilong-hilo man ay hindi maiwasang maisip ang ginawa 'nung lalaki
kanina.

He groped me, he harassed me!

May sinabi s'ya sa mga bouncer bago tinuro ang dancefloor at muli akong hinila.

We reached the parking lot, napasandal ako kaagad sa kotse ni Warren pagkarating
namin, sumisinghap ako at nang magmulat ng mata ay nasalubong ko kaagad ang galit
na mga mat ani Warren.

I thought he'd scold me but to my shock, he held my hand and checked my arm.

"What did the asshole did to you?" he asked seriously, checking my arms.

Unknowingly, my tears fell. Suminghap ako para pigilan pero maya-maya pa'y humihikbi
na ako.

"F-fuck..." he cursed when he saw me crying. "Why are you crying? Did he hurt you?"
he asked eagerly.

Instead, I cried more. Nagmura s'yang muli at mas umigting ang panga.

"Scira, what did the motherfucker did to you?!" galit n'yang turan, muling sumulyap sa
braso ko, humawak sa aking leeg at sumulyap doon.
"T-Tintin..." I gasped and sobbed more.

"Scira!" he called, his eyes are bloodshot, frustrated. "What did he do to you?!"

"H-he groped me, W-Warren..." I sobbed. "h-he touched me."

I saw how rage filled his eyes, mas umigting ang kanyang panga. Akala ko ay susugod
pero sa gulat ko ay mabilis n'ya akong niyakap.

I cried on his shoulder. I felt his caress on my back, mahigpit na kumapit ako sa shirt
n'ya at kinalma ang aking sarili.

"We will file a case, okay?" he whispered calmly pero rinig ko ang diin at galit doon.

"O-okay," I said and bit my lip.

He kissed my hair and helped me calm down.

"I-is it possible? I-I don't have any evidence? N-no one saw he groped me." I whispered.

"It is possible, Ma'am, okay?" he said and slowly cupped my cheek.

It's my first time being harassed like that na nanginginig ang katawan ko sa takot.

"W-will someone believe me?" I asked him, "a-ako lang ang nakakaalam na ganoon."
"I believe you, okay?" he said softly and my tear fell again.

"Y-you do?" I asked in a small voice.

"Yes," he whispered and kissed my forehead. "yes, baby, I believe you. I'll take him to
the precinct and call for a lawyer."

"P-pwede? K-kahit walang ebidensya?" I asked.

"Your statement's enough, baby. We'll file a case, hmm? He can't get away with what
he did like that." He said softly.

I nodded, nanginginig man ay muli ko s'yang niyakap at mariing pumikit.

"T-thank you, Tin..." I whispered.

"Anything for you." He whispered.

Mas humigpit ang hawak ko sa shirt n'ya at suminghap nang may maalala.

"P-please, please call Kuya Alchiel for me..." I requested and I heard him say yes before
kissing my head.

Kabanata 13
Tulala lang ako at tahimik sa loob ng kotse. Warren went back to the bar and talked to
the owner and the bouncers, noong bumalik naman siya ay nakita kong may kausap sa
telepono.

I am hugging my body, nakapatong sa aking balikat ang jacket ni Warren. The image of
that pervert still lingers in my mind. I am a strong woman, yes, but never in my whole life
I was harassed like that, no one has ever touched me inappropriately kaya nakakagulat.

If it wasn't for Warren, I'm positive I'll stay silent, baka kimkimin ko lang iyon pero
nagpapasalamat akong nariyan siya kahit papaano, may napagsabihan ako.

Now, I understand those people, men or women who can't reach out when they're
harassed, kasi natatakot sila, natatakot na hindi paniwalaan, natatakot na sila pa ang
sisihin sa kabastusan ng mga taong kagaya kanina.

People nowadays tends to blame the victim, kesyo sa suot daw ng biktima, whatsoever.
Mga taong bugok at bobo ang mayroong ganoong mindset.

It was never the cloth's fault they were perverts. In terms naman sa isusuot ng kahit
sino, s'yempre, you still have to be responsible and wear clothes appropriately for every
occasion. Hindi naman p'wedeng mag-bikini kapag binyag, 'di ba?

My Mom taught me, it's okay to wear the clothes I feel like wearing, I should just be
responsible for it and take care of myself.

Nahihilo na ako dahil sa nainom, my head's quite spinning and I felt like my stomach's
churning.

The car door opened, kaagad akong napasulyap sa aking tabi at napasinghap nang
makita si Warren.
I watched him as he made his way inside the car, nagsalubong ang mga mata namin at
nakita ko ang paglahad niya sa akin ng telepono.

"Attorney," he said and I immediately took the phone and placed it on my ear.

"K-kuya?" I called.

"Scira!" he immediately called my name, panicking. "How are you? Sinong kasama mo
r'yan, did that asshole hurt you?"

"I'm fine po, I think." I said softly. "I was just shocked and scared, h-he touched me
inappropriately."

"Damn it," he cursed. "Did you slap him?"

"I did,"

"Good girl," he sighed. "Who helped you? 'Yong tumawag sa akin, si Warren...you know
him, right? Do you trust that guy?"

Napasulyap ako kay Warren na nakasandal sa upuan, mariing nakapikit ang mata at
kunot ang noo. I saw his jaw clenching, his hand in a tight fist while resting it in the
steering wheel.

My heart soften, I nodded and bit my lip.

"Opo, Kuya. I trust him."

"Ayos ka lang d'yan?"

"Opo." Sagot ko. "Nagkataon lang na nagkayayaan sa bar, then, I danced and..."

"Damn it," he cursed again. "I'll be there first thing in the morning, hmm?"

"O-opo, Salamat, Kuya." I said softly.

"I'll tell Tita Zid—"

"No!" I exclaimed, napamulat si Warren at sumulyap sa akin kaya kinagat ko ang labi at
suminghap, sumandal sa upuan at tumungo.

"Scira..." he warned.

"P-please, Kuya." I said softly. "Ayokong nag-aalala sila. They let me go alone here kasi
they believed I can handle myself, kung malalaman nila ito, I am sure na mag-aalala
sila."

"But Scira," he sighed.

"Please, Kuya. Kahit si Kuya Deion, please, don't tell him." I said. "Mag-aalala sila,
please?"

I heard his deep breathes, mukhang nagdadalawang-isip kaya nagsalita ako.

"T-then, uhm, let's tell Ate Clyte?" I said. "S-sabihin mo kay Ate, Kuya, please? Tapos
isama mo siya bukas."

Hindi kaagad siya sumagot. "Mag-aalala rin ang Ate mo, we could just tell to your
family."

"I know pero at least, may nakakaalam na isa sa kanila? I want Ate Clyte to know, Kuya.
Isama mo siya, please. Gusto ko siyang makita."

"Alright," he said and I sighed.

Tahimik kong ibinaba ang phone matapos bago sumulyap kay Warren na nakatitig lang
sa kamao niyang nakapatong sa manibela. When he noticed me looking, I saw him
shifted his gaze at me.

"Do you wanna go home?" he asked in a soft voice and I nodded.

He glanced at me, dumukwang siya at nagtaka pa ako roon noong una pero nang
matantong inayos niya lang ang jacket sa balikat ko ay kumalma ako. Calmly, I rested
my back on the seat, hinila niya ang seatbelt at marahang inayos.

I smelled his scent, napapikit ako dahil sa pagkawala kahit papaano ng takot sa puso
ko. I bit my lip and opened my eyes when I felt his finger on my cheek.

I met his black eyes, he pursed his lips when he saw me, slowly put my hair behind my
ear and spoke.

"He's out now but he'll be there tomorrow with his lawyer."
"Pupunta ba siya?" I asked, "p-paano kung hindi siya sumipot—"

"I checked his name, cards and everything. If he won't come, I'll deal with him." Aniya at
tahimik akong tumango at ngumiti.

"Salamat," I whispered.

The cold, soft song played in the stereo while we're on our way back to the building,
pinilit ko pa si Warren na dumaan sa convenient store para bilhan ako ng isang can ng
beer. I needed to get things off my mind so he let me, kahit ayaw pa niya noong una.
Pigil pa ang antok ko dahil nakakahiya pero hindi ko na ata napigilan habang nasa
kalagitnaan at basta na lang nakatulog.

Naalimpungatan lang ako nang maramdaman ang pag-angat ko sa ere. I wanted to

speak yet I am so dizzy, parang ngayon lang kinain ng kalasingan.

I rested my head on Warren's chest, sniffing his scent.

"Uhm, Engineer, hello! Bar hopping?" I heard a faint soft voice somewhere, hindi ko
naman maimulat ang mata dahil sa bigat ng ulo.

"Yeah," I heard his voice.

"Oh, I see," the feminine voice giggled. "Mukhang lasing na lasing ang kaibigan mo."

"Well, yeah—" before he could say anything, mabilis na yumakap ako sa batok niya at
napansin ko ang gulat niya.
Slowly, I lifted my head and whispered with my closed eyes, "we're not friends..."

He cleared his throat, humagikhik ako at muling ibinaon ang mukha sa dibdib niya.

"U-uh, acquittance, Engineer?" I heard the voice again and I groaned, nanliliit ang mga
mata at hilo man ay nagmulat ako ng mata,

Nasalubong ko ang mata ni Warren na nagulat din sa pagmulat ko, ngumuso ako,
bumaling sa kausap niya at napairap ako nang makita.

It's Macey, the bitchy.

The woman looks shocked seeing me, suminghap pa siya roon at pasimpleng umirap
pa sa akin.

"Ibaba mo ako," I said groggily.

"Scira,"

"Isa," I muttered, pushing his chest a bit and he sighed. Umiling pa siya muli, inayos ako
sa bisig niya kaya sumimangot ako.

"Ibaba moa ko o i-s-slap kita?" I threatened.

Macey gasped again, Warren cursed and glanced at me and when he saw me glaring,
got no other choice but to put me down.

Pagsayad pa lang ng paa ko sa elevator ay umikot na ang paningin ko, my knees

wobbled. Naipikit ko ang mata at muntik nang mabuwal pero mabilis akong nasalo ni
Warren.
"Ma'am," he called and touched my waist.

"She's drunk and wasted," Macey commented, nag-angat ako ng tingin, malabo at halos
dalawa na siya sa paningin ko roon pero ngumisi ako.

"S-so?" I asked.

"You stink!" she exclaimed and I gasped, umayos ako ng tayo at humarap sa kanya.

"Hexcuse meh?" I asked.

"I said you are drunk. You are losing your poise, girl. Ang yabang mo pero ganyan ka
kabalahura kapag lasing." She hissed and my eyes widen.

"Aba..."

"Ma'am," Warren pulled my waist back but the annoying woman is smirking.

"Nakakahiya naman kay Engineer na siya pa ang aasikaso sa'yo—"

"Miss Perez, enough." Warren's hard voice muttered, pulling me back on his body.

I almost tripped but he caught my waist and pulled me more, "come on, baby."

"Hindi!" I exclaimed, glancing back at the woman smirking at me.

Ang yabang-yabang, akala mo kagandahan!

"Stop being a baby, Miss. Nakakahiya naman kay Engineer Miranda, respetadong tao
tapos mag-aalaga lang sa'yo—"

"Miss Perez, stop meddling with my business." Warren said coldly and I saw how
startled the woman is.

"Engineer, I was just concerned because that woman—"

"You don't have the right to tell me what do I do, if I wanted to take care of her then you
can't do anything. This is my life, Miss. I hope you understand it." He said and I smirked
when I saw how the woman's eyes widen.

She glared at me sideways, looking so irritated and I spoke.

"Alam mo, Miss, respetado kang tao pero may lumot 'yang bibig mo." Balik ko sa kanya
at nakita ko ang pag-awang ng labi niya sa gulat.

"Scira!" Warren called me, pulling me on his chest and I just chuckled coldly and
pushed him.

Tumunog ang elevator, hudyat na naabot na namin ang palapag.

"Come here," Warren touched my arm but I pushed it.

Kampante akong naglakad patungo sa labas ng elevator kahit nahihilo at sumusuray pa
ang lakad.

"Scira," he called again.

"Shh!" I exclaimed, opened my eyes widely and saw the hallway moving.

"O-oh, 3D na rito? G-gumagalaw, ah?" I asked, muntik pang mabungo sa pader but
Warren is too quick to cover my forehead with palm to stop me from bumping my head.

I giggled, "Sorry." I whispered.

"Baby, come on." He called.

"B-baby mo lelang mo," I hissed, moved a bit, pushed him away before walking to the
waving hallway. Nagiging apat na ang mga pintuang nakikita ko, my knees felt like
shaking and when I accidentally stepped on the thick carpet, halos masubsob ako sa
lapag.

"Scira, shit!" I heard his voice.

I groaned, sumakit ang tuhod ko sa biglaang pagtama ng tuhod sa lapag.

"Aww," I whined.

"Shit, I told you...come on." He muttered, hindi na ako nagreklamo nang mabilis niya
akong binuhat at iniangat sa ere.
I yawned, magkasamang antok at kalasingan na ang namutawi at napapikit na lang
ako.

I felt him walking while carrying me, I can feel my stomach churning. Kanina ay ayos
naman ako sa kotse pero noong nakatulog ay nahilo na at sumasakit ang ulo.

I'm never this wasted before!

I pulled Warren's shirt, hinayaan niya lang ako habang kumakapit ako sa kanya.

Habang tahimik kong dinaramdam ang init ng katawan niya, napansin kong nakatigil
lang kami kaya unti-unti akong nagmulat.

"Keycard, baby." He said, looking down at me.

"Hmm, keycard." I murmured, mas kumapit pa.

"Come on, Ma'am. I have to take you in so you could rest." Marahang sabi niya at
tumango lang ako. "So, where's the keycard?"

I opened my eyes again, "hmm?"

"The keycard, so I could take you inside."

"Ah," I nodded.
I saw his amused smile, his black eyes glistened. Bumagsak ang kanyang buhok sa
noo at sumulyap muli sa akin.

"You're adorable, are you that drunk? You're fine earlier." He asked.

"Ayos ako, ah!" my eyes flickered and glared at him. "I'm not drunk!"

"Oh, of course not." He chuckled. "So, where's the keycard?"

I glanced at him, nakita kong seryoso siyang nag-aantay ng sagot kaya sinagot ko siya.

"Sa puso mo," I said.

His mouth parted, humagikhik ako at muling ibinaon ang mukha sa dibdib niya.

"Scira," I heard his amused voice and my lips protruded.

"Seven," I whispered.

"Hmm?" he asked and I looked at him again. "One, seven, fifteen..."

"What?" he asked, confused.

"Those are letters, hulaan mo..." I whispered.

He sighed, "alright, what is it again?"

"Seven, one, seven, fifteen!" I said again and he stayed silent for a while.

"Seven is G," he muttered and I smirked, pulled his shirt more.

"Hmm," I hummed.

"G-A-G-O," he muttered then stopped, I felt his body tensing.

"Scira," I heard his hard voice and I laughed, nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya at
ngumisi.

"Oh, galing naman, nalaman mo!" I raised my hand happily.

He shook his head, licked his lip and spoke. "Keycard, Ma'am?"

"Gago ka," I said and sighed slowly, "k-kasi I trusted you but you lied to me."

"I-I'm sorry," I heard his soft voice. "I-I just wanted to get close to you."

"A-asshole," I said softly.

He fixed me on his arms, antok naman akong pumikit at suminghap.

Nakatulog nanaman ata ako at ang sunod ko nang nakita ay nasa loob na ako ng
kwarto, I frowned, umikot ako pero natigilan nang mapansing iba ang pabango.

I sat on the bed but my head throbbed, I gasped and massaged my temple. I felt sticky,
umiikot ang sikmura ko kaya halos gumapang na ako pababa ng kama.

I found the bathroom's door, mabilis kong pinihit iyon at dinig ko ang lagaslas ng tubig
bago ko tinakbo ang distansya sa inidoro.

I almost knelt on the ground, puking my lungs out. Mas sumakit ang ulo ko at halos
yumakap na sa inidoro para lang mailabas ang kung ano sa sikmura ko.

"Scira," I almost jumped when I heard a voice, may umangat ng buhok ko sa aking leeg
at mula sa repleksyon ay nakita ko kung sino iyon.

Masakit ang lalamunan ko, nanghihinang sumalampak ako roon hanggang sa

naramdaman ko ang pag-angat ko sa ere.

I raised my head, only to see Warren with his still wet and disheveled hair. Ramdam ko
ang lamig ng katawan niya at doon ko natantong bagong paligo lang siya.

My lips protruded, medyo mas umayos na ang pakiramdam. He let me sit on the sink,
mabilis akong naghilamos at nagmumog habang inaayos ni Warren ang buhok ko.

I saw him took a hair tie somewhere, I watched him tie my hair up.

"K-kaya ko," I muttered and he looked at me in the mirror.

That's when I realized he's still wearing a white towel wrapped on his waist, he's naked
at the top. I saw how his muscles ripped on his arms, mas ngumuso ako at napailing.

"Come here," hindi na ako nag-inarte nang alalayan niya ako, he lifted me up on the
sink again. Napasandal ako sa may salamin at nakita ang seryoso niyang mata habang
hinahawi ang mga buhok sa pisngi ko.

"Wait here," he said and left the bathroom.

Did I enter the bathroom with him taking a bath? Mabilis akong nagmulat at sumulyap
sa shower glass na naroon at nagulat pa nang makita ang basa roon at moist mula sa
salamin.

Oh...shit?

I closed my eyes again, my head is still throbbing. Narinig ko ang pagbukas ng

bathroom at nang magmulat ay nakitang naka-shirt na na kulay gray si Warren at kulay
itim na boxers.

"I'll clean your face," he suddenly said.

"Where am I?"

"My room," he said and my forehead creased.

"Why? My room's just beside yours. I am not—"

"You won't give me your keycard and you're sleepy, I got no choice." He said and I
sighed, nagmulat ako at nakitang may hawak siyang tuwalya. "Let me clean your face,"

"Ayaw..." I said.

"Your make-up's smudging, Ma'am." He said and my eyes widen a bit, sumulyap ako sa
salamin at napamura sa isipan nang makitang lusaw na ang make-up ko, my eyeliner's
gone too, medyo kumalat pa sa mata ko.

"M-my skincare." I muttered.

"I'll do it, where are your products?" aniya.

"B-but it's meticulous, matagal din—"

"It's alright, just teach me how to do it." Seryosong sabi niya kaya kumalabog ang dibdib
ko, I bit my lip and asked him.

"R-really? You'll do it?"

"Yes," his lips lifted for a smile.

"My room, some are inside the bathroom tapos sa vanity." I said, "my keycard's inside
my pouch."

"Alright, drink this first to ease your headache," he said, handling me the pain reliever
na mabilis kong inabot at kinuha.
He left after that, muli kong ipinikit ang mata ko para ikalma ang sarili. Masaya talaga
mag-party at uminom but I really hate the aftermath, I hate the hang-over. Lalo na ang
pakiramdam na gusto mo na lang i-umpog ang ulo mo sa pader sa sakit.

I heard the door opened, nakita ko si Warren na may bitbit na mga bote kaya umangat
ang labi ko. May nakasabit na pouch pa sa balikat niya. He looked so confuse when our
eyes met kaya ngumisi ako.

"That's a lot," I commented.

"I...I don't know what to choose so I took it all?" he said.

Natawa ako, ibinaba niya ang mga bote sa may sink at bumaling sa akin.

"So..." he glanced at me, "how do I start?"

"I bet you have an idea how to do that," I said and he looks stunned. "oh, you don't?
Hindi ka nag-search paano gawin 'yan?"

"Well, I did." He put his hand on his nape, napailing ako nang mamula ang mukha niya
sa titig ko. "I just don't know how to do it exactly, I mean, I researched para kung gusto
mong mag-usap sa skin care routine, a-alam ko isasagot ko."

I bursted out laughing, his face flushed more. He licked his lower lip and cleared his
throat.

"I-I mean, you're my Kumare and there are time we'll be talking about—"
"For a liar, ma-effort ka." I said and I saw him gulped, his adams apple moved harshly
and I shook my head.

"Brush my teeth first," I said and he nodded.

Akala ko ay hindi niya ako susundin kaya tumaas and sulok ng labi ko nang kumuha
siya ng bagong toothbrush at binanlawan.

Umayos ako ng upo sa sink, iginalaw ko ang paa ko habang nag-aantay sa kanya at
halos nang magsalubong ang mukha naming ay pumilantik ang puso ko.

He lied to you, Scira. Never forget that.

"Open your mouth," he muttered and I did.

He brushed my teeth while I remained staring at him, kita ko ang pagkunot ng noo niya,
ang pagkaseryoso habang ginagawa iyon at habang nakatitig sa kanya ay may kung
ano sa puso ko.

"Mumog ka," he offered me the glass of water and I immediately took it para
magmumog. Tahimik niyang ipinagpatuloy ang pagsepilyo sa akin at nang matapos ay
kumuha siya ng twalya at mabilis na pinunasan ang bibig ko.

Our eyes met, my heart throbbed when his black eyes stared at me.

I'm fucked, damn it. I like him too, so much...that it hurt me so much.
"You should wash your face first with warm water," aniya at mabilis akong nag-iwas ng
tingin at tumango.

I went on the sink, washed my face with the clean, warm water. After that, muling
humawak sa braso ko si Warren at tinulungan ako pabalik sa sink para maupo.

Like a small kid, I waited for his next move. He's towering me, nanliliit ang mata niya
kakabasa sa mga bote roon kaya pinagmasdan ko siya ng tahimik.

"You should use—"

"Toner!" he exclaimed and raised the bottle, nagkatinginan kami kaya natawa ako at
napailing.

"Yeah, right." I nodded.

He took a small, clean cotton and tilted my chin, namungay ang mata ko habang
seryoso siya sa ginagawa.

"Gaan pala ng kamay mo," I said.

"Not really, I just...I like your skin, saan ang derma mo?" Biglang lumambot ang boses
niya.

"Isa, Augustine!" his eyes widen when I scolded him, gulat siyang sumulyap kaya
umirap ako.

"W-what?"
"'Yong totoo, nagpapanggap ka lang ba talagang bakla o natuluyan ka na?" I hissed
and he blinked at me and cleared his throat.

"I'm a man," he said and I frowned at him, rolling my eyes.

"Next na!" I exclaimed.

He panicked, mabilis na kumalkal sa next step ng skin care routine ko. I let him choose
what he thought needed.

He showed me a small bottle, tumango naman ako at hinayaan siya.

I closed my eyes when he took care of my face, naramdaman ko ang lamig ng serum sa
mukha ko at ang marahang paghaplos niya roon ng daliri niya, marahang
nagmamasahe.

My eyes are closed yet I can feel his intense stares. Mukhang titig na titig habang
nakapikit ako kaya nagsalita ako.

"Pinapag-skincare lang kita kasi tamad akong mag-ganyan pero hindi kita bati," I said
softly.

I heard his sigh, my lips protruded while waiting for his answer.

"I know, I just...please give me a chance to prove myself."

"You had your chance but you wasted it, Augustine." I opened my eyes and stared at
him. "You know how much I hate liars but you still chose to be one of them."

"I'm sorry," he muttered. "you caught me off guard when I'm fooling over Warrion, I-I
was just joking but then...you saw it and assumed I am gay—"

"Sinisisi mo ba ako?!" I hissed.

"No!" his eyes widen. "No, I am not. I'm sorry, I should have told you the truth."

"Sino ba naman kasing magbibiro ng ganoon?" I glared at him, "may pa-walling ka pa,
Tintin!"

He gulped, licked his lip and tilted his head.

"I-I'm sorry, that's just how we joked around—"

"Augustine sa umaga, Cristine sa gabi pang nalalaman..." I shook my head. "best

actress ka, ano?"

He shyly looked away, took my eye cream and opened it.

"Crush kita, eh." He said and my heart flinched.

Natigilan ako, nakita ko ang pagtago niya ng ngiti sa reaksyon ko.

"A-aba, sa tingin mo crush kita?" I raised my brow and placed my arms on my chest.
"Yes," he said confidently and my mouth parted.

"Excuse me, Miranda?" I hissed.

"You said you're turning into a lesbian like me." He said.

Nang makitang gulantang ako ay tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya.

"Aba't—"

"See?" he grinned at me.

"Augustine!" I hissed.

"Yes, my Architect?" he teased and my cheeks flushed.

I kicked his feet, mabilis siyang nakaiwas, natatawang inilahad sa akin ang eye cream.

"Let me put this cream on your face, Mars." Maharot niyang sabi kaya sinamaan ko siya
ng tingin.

"Augustine!" I hissed.

"Yes, baby?" he smirked when he saw me glaring.

"I hate you!" I hissed.

"You adorable baby," he pinched my cheek.

"Hmp!" Inangat ko ang kamay, aambang susuntukin siya pero mabilis niyang hinuli iyon
at inilagay sa balikat niya.

He was too quick to put the cream on the sink, towering me before cornering me on the
side.

"W-what are you doing..."

"I am sorry but if I have to be a gay again just to get close to you...I will."

I gulped harshly, I can feel the warmth of his body as he cornered me. His hand is on
the side of my head, ang kamay ko sa kanyang balikat ay marahang tumutulak palayo
sa kanya pero hindi siya natitinag.

"L-let me go,"

"I won't, never." He said, staring at me. "If I have to beg you over and over again to get
your attention, I will. Ask me to kneel and I will."

"Weh?" I frowned at him.

"Try me,"
"Hmm, sige nga." I raised my brow. "Lumuhod ka, aking alipin."

He licked his lip, moved away and in the verge of kneeling when I gasped, hinila ko siya
patayo kaya napaayos siya.

"J-joke lang!" I exclaimed and he just stared at me.

"I'll do anything, just tell me..." he said while looking at me.

We stared at each other for a while, ramdam ko ang takot sa puso ko, takot na
masaktan muli sa kasinungalingan niya.

Big or small, lies are lies.

"Prove it to me, then." I said seriously and I saw how a smile rose from his lips.

"Y-yes, of course. Yes." He nodded.

"S'werte mo, mga ex ko, ekis kaagad. Mess this up and I'll..." I showed him my fist,
threatening him but instead, he grinned, nagulat ako nang mabilis niyang sapuin ang
pisngi ko at pinaulanan ng halik ang mukha ko.

"M-my face! Augustine, ang skin care ko!" I growled angrily.

"I love you!" he kissed my cheek. "I won't mess this up, I promise." Pinaulanan niya ng
halik ang pisngi pati ang ilong ko kaya napairap ako sa hangin.
"You jerk, lalaki ka pa lang, bitch ka." I hissed.

He chuckled and kissed my forehead.

"Sister to brother real quick, na-scam ako, punyeta." Reklamo ko. "Akalain mo 'yon,
Architect Valderama, na-scam."

"I'm sorry, I'll make it up to you," he grinned.

Ngumuso ako at nangunot ang noo, umirap sa hangin bago sinipa ang paa niya.

"Kakasuhan din kita," I said and he froze.

"H-huh?"

"Baka pwede ang fraud." I said and shook my head in disappointment.

"Damn you, Augustine. Pinahawak pa kita sa pwet ko, you asshole!" galit kong sigaw at
napahagalpak siya ng tawa.

Kabanata 14

I woke up early, hilong-hilo ako kaagad pag-gising at mabilis na tumingin sa paligid ko.
My forehead creased when I remembered what happened last night...kung bakit ako
nandito at kung anong nangyari.

I gasped when I realized I am not in my room, kaagad na lumingon sa sofa at nakita na

wala na roon ang scammer na Augustine.

I sighed.

Kita ko ang nagkalat na unan at kumot n'ya roon.

Napahilot ako sa sentido nang maramdamang kumikirot iyon. I like drinking but I loathe
the hang over so much!

Pagkatapos talaga ng saya ay palaging may pasakit. Hindi ba pwedeng masaya lang?

My eyes found the side table and I saw a glass of water and a medicine for my hang
over. Kaagad ko iyong ininom at mabilis na bumaba sa kama.

Kaagad na nahulog ang malaking damit na suot ko, bumaba ang tingin ko sa suot at
nakitang ang malaking sweater jacket iyon ni Warren.

It reached my leg, halos hindi na rin makita ang kamay ko sa suot kaya napailing ako at
dumiretso sa sofa kung saan siya natulog.

Tinupi ko ang kumot niya bago ko inayos ang unan at bumaba.

I smelled the delicious breakfast kahit nasa hagdanan pa lang ako. Humawak ako
habang pababa at inilibot ang tingin ko.
This looks identical to the room where I am staying, mas maaliwalas nga lang ang
dating dito sa kanya dahil kombinasyon ng neutral colors ang istraktura.

Nagtungo ako sa kusina at naabutan siyang nagluluto roon. Halos mapamura at

mapatakbo naman akong paalis nang makita ang ayos niya.

He's wearing nothing but this faded maong jeans, basa ang buhok at kitang-kita ko ang
hubog ng muscle sa kanyang braso at likuran. I saw his Calvin Klein briefs saying hi to
me and I almost hyperventilated.

I cleared my throat, nakita kong natigilan siya sa ginagawa sa may kalan at mabilis
akong nilingon.

"Morning," gulat man ay sumilay ang ngisi sa labi niya.

I saw his black eyes shine, nasa noo pa ang iilang hibla ng buhok niya at nakaangat
ang sulok ng labi para sa ngisi.

Umirap ako sa hangin at nagmartsa sa stool.

"Hang over?" he asked me.

"Hmm," I hummed, putting my arms on the counter bago marahang umub-ob doon.

"I left you some meds upstairs, pwede mong inumin para mawala 'yong sakit ng ulo
mo." I felt him lifting my hair from the back.
"Matagal ka pa ba magluluto? Gutom na ako." I whined.

"I'm almost done, come here." Naramdaman ko ang marahang hawak niya sa braso ko
kaya mabilis akong umahon.

I felt his chest on my back, tumingala ako at nakita ko ang pagtungo niya.

My heart pounded and it actually flinched painfully when our eyes met.

I gulped, I saw how lowered his head, giving me a soft kiss on the forehead and
touched my shoulder.

"B-bakit ka nanghahalik?!" I hissed angrily, mabilis na pumalag at nag-iinit ang pisnging

ngumuso at umayos ng tayo.

"You're adorable, Ma'am." He chuckled, naramdaman ko ang pagsuklay niya ng buhok

ko sa ere at itinali iyon sa ponytail.

Nanatili akong tahimik, kumakalabog ang puso. I bit my lip to supress what I am feeling
and sighed.

"Gutom na ako." Reklamo kong iritado para hindi niya mapansin ang reaksyon ko.

"Alright, I think it's ready." He said and left me.

Tahimik akong nakaupo habang pinagmamasdan siyang maghain ng pagkain.

Our eyet met while he's in the process of fixing the utensils and he winked.

My mouth parted dramatically, ngumisi siya pagkaraan.

"How dare you...akala mo gwapo ka?" I hissed.

Instead, his lip lifted for a smirk.

"I am, Ma'am." He said confidently, taking his shirt from the stool and wore it in front of
me.

I rolled my eyes at him, natatawang naupo siya sa harapan ko at nakangusong

sumulyap ako sa pagkain sa lamesa.

I gulped miserably when I saw it is the typical breakfast yet ang sarap-sarap sa paningin
ko. Yellow rice with green peas and carrots, may hotdogs at fried eggs din.

Goodbye, diet.

I bit my lip, immediately watched Warren putting foods on my empty plate. Naglagay din
siya ng fresh lemon juice sa baso ko bago inilahad sa akin ang pagkain.

"You can eat, Ma'am." He smiled charmingly.

"Baka may lason 'yan, ah?" I raised my brow.

"Hmm, nah, why would I harm my baby?" He tapped my chin kaya sumimangot ako at
mabilis na pinalo ang kamay niya.

"Baby mo lelang mo," irap ko sa hangin.

"Masarap 'yan, Ma'am. Kasing sarap ko." He smiled.

My heart pounded. Nagulat at kinilig ako roon pero umirap na lang ako at umiling.

Dalagang marangal ako. Period.

Natapos ang breakfast na puro irap na ata ang ginagawa kay Augustine, nangingiti
naman siya sa bawat pag-irap ko at tahimik akong titigan.

Bibisitahin muna namin ang site bago pupunta sa presinto para sa kaso kagabi.

Magulo pa ang buhok at suot pa ang sweater niya, lumabas ako sa loob ng kwarto at
kaagad na nakita si Lucas na napasulyap sa pwesto ko.

He's standing in front of my room, nabakas ang gulat sa mata niya nang makita ako.

"Scira!" he called and walked abruptly.

Napatigil siya sa paglalakad nang makita ang suot kong sweater. Warren followed me,
hawak ang bag at ang damit ko kagabi.

"What..." Lucas muttered upon seeing me.

"Move away, Lucas." I said.

Hindi siya gumalaw, nakita ko ang tagong ngisi ni Warren habang naroon sa tabi ko
kaya napairap ako sa hangin.

I walked towards my room but stopped when I heard Lucas spoke.

"Ano, ayaw mo sa bastos sa bar pero nagpapabastos ka rito?" I stopped, kaagad na

nilingon si Lucas at nakita siyang nanggigilaiti sa galit.

"Pardon?" narinig man ay gusto ko siyang pakinggan ulit. Nararamdaman ko ang nag-
ngingitngit na galit sa dibdib.

Lucas licked his lip, tahimik na nakatayo sa tabi ko si Warren, seryoso na at nakatiim
ang bagang.

Lucas scoffed and glanced at me shamelessly.

"Galit na galit ka pangbabastos sa'yo sa bar pero magsusuot ka ng ganyan dito? Mapili
ka sa babastos sa'yo, ah? Para kang mahinhin sa iba pero may tinatago ka pala." He
spatted.

My breathe labored. Gusto kong magwala sa narinig ko sa kanya pero pilit akong
kumalma.

"Can you hear yourself, Lucas?" I raised my brow.

"Yes," he spatted. "you act like a noble princess when in fact, you are nothing but a
whore. Nagrereklamo ka sa paghipo sa'yo, eh, dapat lang naman. Look at you! You
looked like a fucking prostitute! Going out dressed like that from a man's room! Hindi mo
naman boyfriend iyan! Eh, noong tayo noon ni hindi manlang kita na--"

"Tang ina mo," my eyes landed beside me and my heart poundex with I saw Warren's
enraged face. He's about to throw a fit, kita ko ang pagkuyom ng kamay niya.

"Sir," I called.

"You don't have a right to call my woman names in front of me." Miski ako kinilabutan
doon sa sinabi niya.

"Your woman?" he laughed. "Excuse me, Engineer whatever-your-name-could-be, that

woman is a Sandejas. Sino ka ba, huh? You are just an Engineer who came from some
cheap firm--"

"No," mabilis kong pinigilan ang braso ni Warren nang akmang aamba siya ng suntok.

"Scira..." he called impatiently, his eyes filled with fury.

"Let me handle this," I said calmly.

"But--" I placed a quick kiss on his lips and I saw how he blinked in confusion.

"What the hell," I heard Lucas hissed. "Valderama!"

"H'wag kang papatol sa asong tahol ng tahol," I said and I saw how he licked his lip and
nodded, looking down on my parted lips.

"O-okay," he answered me.

"Good boy." I tapped his chin then glanced at Lucas who's now fuming mad.

Umangat ang sulok ng labi ko, naglakad palapit sa kanya at nakita ko ang galit niya.

"Scira, are you seriously taking that asshole's side—"

"I'm taking no one's side, Lucas. I am taking mine." I said.

"Really, huh? Eh, bakit ka kumakampi sa gagong 'yan—"

"Saan ang gago?" I asked, looking around.

"That man—"

I cut him off my looking at him and smirked, "oh, here's the gago." I said, staring at him.

I saw how his mouth parted. "How dare you—"

"No, how dare you, Lucas." I stared at him coldly.

"I'm a Sandejas, yes. That man," tinuro ko si Warren na nakatitig lang sa akin. "He's a
Miranda. He didn't come from the cheap firm like you are claiming."

"I don't care, like I am saying, he doesn't deserve you!" he growled. "Wake up, Scira!
Nandito ako, oh. I am more deserving than that prick!"

"No one's deserving of me but me." I told him.

"What? Of course, I am deserving of you! I am nothing but a perfect boyfriend for you! I
can give you everything, Scira! My family is a big help to you!"

"Nah," I smirked. "You're just Lucas, the stupid and selfish ex."

"How dare you!" halos mamula na ang mukha niya sa galit sa sinabi ko. "Akala mo
perfect ka? No! You are a pathetic bitch—"

I hid my hand on my back.

"Yes, I know." My lips pursed. "What a sick attitude, may tinatago ako, 'di ba? Here, I'll
let you see." Itinaas ko ang kamay ko at mabilis siyang sinampal sa mukha.

Gulat siyang napahawak sa kanyang pisngi, tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko bago
tumalikod pero natigilan nang may naalala.

Mabilis ko siyang hinarap at nagsalita. "And oh, I'm a Valderama too." I said and raised
my brow. "So never underestimate what my family could do."
Nagmartsa ako paalis, nakataas ang noo at diretso ang lakad. I saw Warren waiting for
me and I rolled my eyes at him.

He licked his lip, immediately took my hand and I shook my head.

"That's my girl," he muttered proudly.

Hindi ko siya pinansin, binuksan ko ang kwarto ko at sa pintuan pa lang ay kinuha ko na

ang mga gamit kong hawak niya.

"I'll bring this—"

"Balik," I said and he froze.

"What?"

"Bumalik ka sa kwarto mo, maliligo na ako." I said.

"Ihahatid kita sa loob—"

"No, layas." I hissed.

"But baby—"

"Isa ka pa," umirap ako at mabilis na isinarado ang pintuan sa mukha niya.
We visited the site first before going to the precinct. Naroon na si Kuya Chiel at Ate
Clyte pagkarating kaya mabilis naming naayos ang kaso.

No matter how much that man blamed me for dancing with him flirtingly with my short
dress, what he did is not justifiable. He can't just harass someone because of what she
wears.

They're just natural perverts, maninisi ng iba sa kasalanan nila.

My Ate Clyte glanced at me with tears eyes after we settled and pushed through the
case, seryosong nakikipag-usap si Kuya Chiel sa abogado ng kabilang panig at si
Warren naman ay nakikipag-usap sa pulis.

"My baby sister," she said softly, touching me.

Suminghap ako at niyakap ang Ate ko.

"Ate..." I called.

"Are you alright, Scira, hmm?" she touched my hair. "Bukod sa hawak sa'yo, may
ginawa pa bang iba?"

"No, Ate. I'm fine." Bulong ko.

Halos magkasing-tangkad na kami ng Ate but I still feel like a little girl whenever she's
with me. I'm an adult yet I felt like a kid kapag inaalagan ako ni Ate at ni Kuya Deion.

She hugged me, tahimik kaming nag-usap at kumustahan habang nakaupo roon.
"How's Mom and Dad, Ate?" I asked.

She fixed my hair. I felt her braiding my hair kaya umayos ako ng upo.

"They're fine, ayon, nasa opisina si Mommy habang wala ka and Dad, he's in the office.
Won't we really tell them?" she asked.

"No, Ate, please. Ayaw ko silang mag-alala sa akin." I said and she hummed.

"Alright, basta if you have a problem, do not hesitate to tell Ate, okay? I'll always be
here for you."

"Alright, Ate. Thank you." I said softly. "How's Queen?"

"Well, Queen Scira's doing great, makulit pa rin. Nakakatuwa nga ang kung wala ang
Mommy at Daddy ay ako ang nag-aalaga. She's cute, hawig na hawig mo 'nung maliit
ka pa."

I giggled and laughed at that, narinig ko ang tawa niya sa likod ko.

"Si Kuya, Ate? Suplado pa rin?" I asked.

"Well, he's busy with his patients. She's back." Aniya kaya mabilis ko siyang nilingon,
nagtataka.
"Who's back?"

"His ex?" she shrugged. "I don't know, I think what happened is awful."

"Oh," bumilog ang bibig ko, magtatanong pa sana nang makita ko ang paglabas ni Kuya
at Warren.

"What are my girls talking about, hmm?" Kuya's blue eyes shined when he saw us.

"Kuya!" I called.

He laughed, pinched my cheek and stared at Ate Clyte who only scoffed at him.

"Okay na?" Ate Clyte asked.

Nagkasalubong at mata namin ni Warren at nakita ko ang pagtaas ng sulok ng labi niya.
Lumabi ako at lumapit sa kanya para marahang yumakap.

I felt him heaved a deep breath before hugging me back, naramdaman ko ang haplos
niya sa likuran ko.

The clearing of throat stopped us, mabilis kong naitulak si Warren na tumikhim at
umayos ng tayo, I saw him gulping at the sight of my strict cousin.

"I-ikaw kasi..." sisi ko pa kay Warren at pinalo ang braso niya nang makitang ganoon si
Kuya.
"What..." Warren glanced at me, confused kaya ngumuso ako at nag-iwas ng tingin.

I saw Ate Clyte hiding her smile while staring at Warren beside me, nakasimangot at
nanliliit naman ang mata Kuya Alchiel doon.

"Oh, come, Kuya, stop glaring at him." Ate Clyte said and punched his shoulder, nakita
ko ang pagbusangot doon ni Kuya.

"I told you to stop calling me Kuya!" he groaned like a kid.

Nagtagisan sila ng tingin doon kaya um-extra na ako.

"Stop it, you two." I told them at sabay silang nag-iwas ng tingin.

"Tara, let's eat lunch, late na." Aya ni Ate Clyte at naglakad palapit sa akin. She held my
hand then stared at Warren who now looked like a little kid ready for scolding.

Mas matangkad si Warren kay Ate pero parang hiyang-hiya si Augustine sa kanya. I
pouted at that.

Sus, kung makapa-cute sa akin kanina, taob naman sa Ate ko.

"Warren Miranda, right?" Ate asked, her strict cold voice filled my ear.

"Y-yes, Ma'am." Warren answered and nodded.

"Hmm," Ate glanced at him from head to toe. "Inaalagaan mo ba itong kapatid ko?"
"Yes po," Warren said like a fine soldier now. Nangiti ako roon.

"Hmm," Ate crossed her arms. "you like her?"

"I love her, Ma'am." Miski ako ay natigilan sa seryosong tinuran nito, sa pagsulyap ko sa
kanya ay nakita ko ang titig niya sa akin.

I cleared my throat, my heart kept on hammering inside my chest as I shifted my gaze,

afraid my emotions would mirror what I feel.

"Oh, that's good." Ate suddenly smiled at him, offering her hand. "Clytemnestra
Valderama, nice to meet you, Warren."

"Warren, Ma'am." He accepted her hand. "Warren Miranda."

We went to a fine restaurant to eat for our lunch. Treat ni Kuya Alchiel dahil datung days
niya raw at hayahay kami nila Ate Clyte.

Warren is sitting in front of me, kanina pa sila nag-uusap ni Kuya Alchiel, mukhang
tungkol sa kaso na isinampa namin sa manyak kanina.

"I admire your courage, Scira." My eyes landed on my sister beside me who is smiling.

"Po?" I asked.
"Nakaka-proud ka kasi you didn't let fear and shame stopped you from standing what
you believe is right." She said. "When you were harassed, I'm proud of you because
kahit mahirap ay nakaya mong magsalita."

"I am scared, ayoko sana noong una, Ate but Warren is there to protect me so, lumakas
ang loob ko." I told her.

"I wish I have your courage,"

"Why?"

"Well, matagal na but years ago, someone groped me and—"

"What did you say, Clyte?" natigil kaming dalawa nang biglang magsalita si Kuya.

"Nothing, Chiel." Ate Clyte answered.

"Did someone grope you?" his forehead creased. "who the hell—"

"That was years ago, Alchiel. Matagal na 'yon."

"Clytemnestra!" Kuya hissed loudly.

I cleared my throat, inabot ang baso ng tubig at uminom nang seryoso silang maglaban
ng tingin. Napasulyap ako kay Warren na natulala rin doon at halatang nagulat.
Months passed and happily, the project ended well. Masaya akong naging successful
ang project namin doon kahit hindi ko nalulutuan ang sarili ko.

Hindi naman ako nagutom, thanks to my personal kumare, scammer and alalay, Warren
Augustine Miranda.

"Tissue," I said and mabilis na binuksan ni Warren ang pouch ko at inabot sa akin ang
tissue.

I smiled, pinunasan ng tissue ang gilid ng labi ko pagkatapos kumain ng sandwich.

We're now on our way to Manila, excited na excited na akong makauwi sa mga pinsan
ko. My cousins promised me a sleepover to the house of my choice. Miss ko na rin ang
parents, mga kapatid ko ang cute naming bunso.

"You..." napasulyap ako kay Warren nang may punasan siya sa gilid ng labi ko.

My forehead creased when I saw that it was a stain from the mayo. Iaabot ko sana sa
kanya ang tissue pero mabilis niya nadala iyon sa labi niya. I saw him licked the stain
and I gasped.

"What the hell, Tintin!" I exclaimed.

"What?" mabilis siyang napalingon sa akin.

"Did you just lick the mayo?" I pointed out.

"N-no, I mean, matamis lang iyong lipstick mo, Mars—"

"Tigil-tigilan mo akong lalaki ka, ah!" nanlaki ang mata ko at hinampas siya.

He laughed, naiiling na sinubukang yakapin ako pero pilit ko lang siyang hinahampas.

"Augustine!" I hissed and he chuckled and stole a kiss from my cheek.

"What was that, Ma'am, hmm? Fresh cherry or strawberry?" he hummed and I gasped
and smacked his arms. "Patikim nga."

Bumaba kami sa eroplano nang halos magpatayan na sa byahe. This man really is a
pain in the ass, biglang umalis pa pagkatapos makuha ang bagahe namin. Nasa labas
na kami at nag-aabang ng sundo ko.

"Stay right here, Ma'am. Wait." Isang halik sa sentido ko ay tumakbo na siya paalis.

Feeling jowa talaga itong scammer na 'to!

I shook my head, humawak sa bagahe at sumulyap sa phone ko.

"Architect, uuna na kami!" paalam sa akin ng team bago umalis.

"Ingat, message me if you're home, okay?"

"Yes po, bye." They smiled.

Naiwan akong mag-isa roon, nagtipa pa sa phone pero nagulat nang may tumusok sa
tagiliran ko.

"What?" umangat ang tingin ko at suminghap nang makita ang pinsan. "Darshana!"

"Bakla!" she giggled when our eyes met.

Tuwang-tuwa kaming nagyakapang dalawa. Kaagad kong napansin ang buhok niya
kaya suminghap ako.

"You cut your hair!" I exclaimed when I saw her short hair and she smirked at me.

"Ganda pa rin ba?" she grinned.

"Naman! Magpinsan kaya tayo! Walang pangit-pangit!" natawa ako.

Nagpaalam lang si Daru nang matawag ang flight niya, kaagad namang nakabalik si
Warren na may kung anong itinatago sa likod niya.

"Ano nanaman 'yan, huh, Augustine?" I raised my brow and he grinned.

I saw how he tilted his head and smirked, kitang-kita ko ang paggalaw ng braso niya at
natulala ako nang makitang may pumpon doon ng mga bulaklak.

"Oh my..."
"I failed giving you these but...here." He smiled shyly and offered me the flowers.
"Beautiful flowers for my beautiful Architect."

Sanay na ako sa mga ganitong linyahan ng ex ko pero pakiramdam ko ay lumulutang

ang pakiramdam ko ngayon dahil sa kanya.

I bit my lip, blushing profusely. Kinikilig ako pero may dignidad ako kaya ngumuso ako
at sumagot.

"Thanks," I said timidly then smelled the roses.

He chuckled, napanguso ako nang guluhin niya ang buhok ko at haplusin ang pisngi ko.

"Can I ask you for a date tomorrow?" he asked and I brow raised.

"At bakit?" I spatted.

"Date, Ma'am, susuyuin ko lang ang nililigawan ko." Ngiti niya, his eyes were filled with
amusement. He's smiling cutely at me kaya umirap ako sa hangin.

"Ayaw..."

"Scira, Ma'am, please?" hinanap niya ang mata ko at nagpapansin. "I'll be so sad if you
reject my date offer."

"Ayaw ko nga,"
"Pretty, please?" he hummed and caught my waist, napasinghap ako roon at nanlaki
ang mata.

"Augustine!" I hissed and he lowered his head, nagsalubong ang mata namin at
nagwala nanaman ang lintik kong puso.

"Hmm, yes, Ma'am?" he asked huskily, looking at my lips.

"G-get off me," I hissed.

"Why?" he looks confused.

"K-kasi..." kasi ang bilis ng puso ko! "Kasi naiipit ang roses! Get off me, ang roses ko!"

He chuckled, but then let me go and pinched my cheek. "Alright, Ma'am, sorry for
ruining your roses. Kailan mo ako sasagutin?"

"Hoy, excuse me, ni hindi ko pa nga feel ang panliligaw mo!" pinalo ko ang braso niya
kaya natawa siya.

"Kidding, of course, I'll wait for you." He said and stared at me. "I'll be a very good boy,
Scira."

Ngumuso ako at mas niyakap ang bouquet. "Siguraduhin mo lang at baka ma-jombag
kita." I showed him my fist.

Natigil lang kami sa pakikipag-usap nang may bumusina, we shifted our heads, only to
see my father's familiar black car.
Tumigil iyon sa gilid at napangisi ako nang makita siyang lumalabas doon.

Thorn Valderama looked seriously strict and handsome while folding his long sleeves
up to his forearm. Seryoso ang itim na mga mata sa ilalim ng salamin, my eyes landed
beside him and I saw my brother Deion, seryosong nakasunod.

Ang ga-gwapo!

I giggled noong sabay pa silang nag-ayos ng eyeglasses.

"Princess," Daddy called.

"Dad!" I cheered and ran like a kid.

Natatawang niyakap niya ako pabalik at humalik sa aking sentido. "Yeah, I miss you
too." He laughed.

"Kuya!" tili ko at tinakbo pagkatapos si Kuya na nangigisi sa akin.

He kissed my head, "how are you?"

"Great! Salamat sa pagsundo!" I cheered.

"I see you're with someone," nawala lang ang ngiti ko nang mawala si Dad at naglakad
kay Warren na tila tuod na nakatayo roon sa may bagahe namin.
I saw his pale face and his harsh breath intake, nakagat ko ang labi ko at suminghap.

"D-dad!" I called and ran.

"And you are?" my Dad's curious eyes stared right through warren's soul and I saw how
he checked him out.

"W-Warren, s-sir..." he said nervously.

"Warren, hmm..." Dad nodded, raising his brow then glanced at Kuya who's now,
shockingly behind Warren na. "You're my daughters...?"

"K-kuya!" I called, humigpit ang hawak sa rosas.

"S-suitor, s-sir. Uhm, nililigaw ko po ang anak niyo." Warren said like a soldier.

"What?"

"N-nililigawan po p-pala, sorry po." He cleared his throat and I gasped.

"I see, may nanliligaw bang yumayakap ng ganoon?" Daddy suddenly asked, "Deion,
may ganoon ba?"

"Wala, Dad." Kuya answered, fixing his sleeved and walking towards Warren's back.

Oh, God.
"Eh, bakit...bakit mo niyayakap ang prinsesa ko?" my Dad asked, raising his brow.

"I-I'm just..."

"Deion, hawakan mo." Utos ni Dad at halos mitumba ako nang wala pang ilang segundo
ay nahawakan na ni Kuya ang braso ni Warren na tulala roon sa gulat.

"S-sir?"

"D-dad!" I called.

"Matagal-tagal na ako noong huling makasuntok, ah." My father said, lifting his close fist
and my eyes widen. I saw Warren gulped harshly, his eyes are asking for help but I only
bit my lip and lowered my gaze.

"Fuck, matagal ko rin pinangarap na makasuntok ng manliligaw ng anak ko." He

chuckled. "Ako binubugbog dati, eh. Damn, memories."

Kabanata 15

Gigil na gigil ang Daddy, I cursed when he lifted his fist, tulala si Warren doon sa gitna,
nagtataka sa nangyayari habang ang Kuya naman ay hawak ang braso nito.

"Dad!" I exclaimed loudly, humigpit ang hawak ko sa bulaklak ko.

"Don't talk, princess." My Dad tilted his head, nang sumulyap ako kay Warren ay gulat
na gulat lang siya roon kaya sumulyap ako kay Kuya na nangingisi sa likuran.

"Kuya Deion, pati ba naman ikaw?!" I hissed but he just smirked at me.

"Sorry, princess. Dad's life goal." He said and I closed my eyes tightly.

"Damn, this is the right time." My Dad was about to punch Warren when I gasped.

"Dad!"

"What?" hinarap niya ako at bumaba ang kamay.

"Let him go," mahinahon kong sambit kahit mabilis na ang kalabog ng puso.

"No, shut up, Scira. Hindi ganoon yumakap ang nanliligaw lang." He said seriously and
clicked his neck.

My heart's been wildly beating, nagkatinginan kaming dalawa ni Warren at nakita kong
napapalunok siya ng marahas doon.

"I would let this pass kung hindi ko nakita but I've seen it, hindi ako papayag na ganoon
ang manliligaw ng anak ko." His jaw clenched and I gasped in frustration.

"Dad..." I called again but he didn't listen.

He raised his hand, aiming for his goal of punching him, Warren's jaw dropped.
"S-sir..." he called. "I can explain."

"Shut up," he said and tied aiming again when I cut him off.

"H-he's gay!" I exclaimed.

We all froze, nanlalaki ang matang napatingin sa akin ang Daddy at Kuya. I saw
Warren's eyes widen too.

"W-what?" my father asked.

"H-he's gay, Dad! M-mars ko 'yan!" I exclaimed.

"Stop lying, little girl. If you're only saying that to save your boy then I won't—"

"Totoo nga!" I exclaimed.

Slowly, his eyes went back to Warren na nakatingin din sa akin. Pinanlakihan ko siya ng
mata at tumikhim siya at maya-maya'y pumilantik ang kamay.

"H'wag po, Sir!" he exclaimed in his soft voice. "A-ang skin care ko, Sir!"

"Putang ina?" Kuya Deion muttered.

"What the hell..."

Nabitawan ni Kuya ang kamay niya at mabilis niyang itinaas at ipinag-kros ang kamay
sa dibdib niya.

"H'wag po, Sir!" he said softly and slowly raised his one foot in the air in a soft way.

Tang ina... I whispered to myself.

"Scira, how..." nilingon ako ni Dad at kinagat ko ang labi ko, nag-iinit ang pisngi.

"S-sabi ko kasi sa'yo, eh." I muttered.

"Thornie! Ano nanaman 'yan?" my eyes left my Dad's and I saw my Mom approaching.

Suddenly, a smile rose on my lips, karga-karga pa niya si Queen Scira na kumakaway

sa akin.

"Mommy!" I gasped.

"Scira! Darling!" she suddenly called and ran towards me, not minding her heels.

"Zidney! Slow down!" my Dad hissed but my Mom already reached me and immediately
hugged me.

"My baby," she called me softly.

Kumalabog kaagad ang puso ko sa tuwa, I hugged my mother and I chuckled when our
youngest hugged my nape with her small arms.

"O-oh, my little queen." I whispered and slowly took our baby from Mom.

"Ate!" she cheered and I chuckled and kissed her cheek.

I immediately met my Mom's soft black eyes staring at me, ngumiti ako at muling
yumakap.

"My, I'm back." I said softly.

"My baby," she said softly and kissed my cheek. "are you fine?"

"Uh-hmm," I whispered and smiled at her. "I'm great, Mom."

"Great, let's dine, baby." She smiled at me.

Habang buhat ko si Queen ay nagtungo si Mommy kay Dad at nakagat ko ang labi ko
nang batukan niya ang Daddy. I saw Warren gulped and stood straight, tila sundalo
roon na matikas na nakatayo.

"Ginagawa mo, Valderama?" she hissed and my father's lips protruded then glanced at
her.

"Wala naman, Valderama." He smiled and answered her back.

My Mom glared at him and pinched his waist and my father gasped.

"Q-queen! Aww!" he whined.

"Ano 'yong nakita ko? Nagpaiwan nga ako sa sasakyan tapos makikita kong may
tinatambangan ka rito?" she hissed.

"I-I just want to try and punch—"

"Thornie!" pinanlakihan niya ng mata si Dad.

"Pangarap ko 'yon!" he exclaimed and I saw Mom bursted out laughing, my brother
laughed too at nakagat ko ang labi ko para magpigil ng tawa.

"Wawa, Thornik." Hagikhik ni Queen Scira sa tainga ko kaya nilingon ko siya at natawa.

"What, baby?" I chuckled.

She giggled and flashed a small smile, "wawa, Thornik." She said cutely.

Warren's lips rose for a smile, parang matatawa na rin pero nang mahuli ni Dad na
natatawa ang itsura niya ay halos mamutla.

"Tinatawa-tawa mo?" he hissed.

"W-wala, Sir." Tintin cleared his throat.

My Mom then glanced at Warren, even with her sweet smile, her cold façade won't just
fade away. Nakita ko ang tensyon kay Tintin habang nakatingin sa kanya ang Mommy.

"Zidney Valderama," my Mom suddenly said, a smile is plastered on her face as she
offered her hand.

"W-Warren, Ma'am." He cleared his throat and accepted her hand. "Warren Augustine
Valderama."

"W-what?"

"M-Miranda pala, uhm...sorry po." He cleared his throat.

Nakasimangot ang Daddy doon, Kuya Deion walked towards me and smirked.
Hinampas ko ang balikat niya kaya tumawa siya at kinuha sa akin si Queen.

"Isa ka pa!" I hissed.

"Pangarap ni Dad," he whispered cockily and I frowned at him.

Nang makuha niya sa akin si Queen ay lumapit ako kay Warren na kausap si Mommy
doon.

"That's my son, Deion and our youngest, Queen Scira. Si Clyte ko nasa trabaho pa pero
sasama iyon sa dinner, tara, sama ka." She smiled.
"Queen!" Dad hissed.

"Sshh, shut up, Thorn." She hushed and glanced at Warren. "Anyway, that's my
husband, pagpasensyahan mo na, punching his daughter's suitor is one of his life
goals."

"Tss," Dad frowned kaya lumapit ako at humalik sa pisngi niya.

"Dad..." lambing ko.

"Don't Dad me, Scira Rosalie." Suplado niyang turan.

Napatawa ako, "come on, be nice to him."

"He's gay, right? Then why is he courting you—"

"I straightened him," bulong ko kaya nilingon niya ako.

His forehead creased, "what?"

"He's a boy now, well, s-sort of." I chuckled nervously.

He raised his brow, watching my eyes and I cleared my throat and looked away.

"S-sama ka na, Warren." I suddenly said and Warren glanced at me, still shock.
I raised my brow at him and he slowly nodded and brushed his hair with his fingers.

"Alright," he said.

"Yay!" Mom cheered happily.

Convoy kami habang papunta sa restaurant na sinasabi ni Mommy, like usual, it's our
family day today, talagang isinakto nila sa pag-uwi ko.

Hindi ako pinayagan ng Daddy na sumabay sa sasakyan ni Warren kaya nakasunod

lang ito sa amin. My Mom is playing with Queen Scira, nagpipisilan sila ng ilong sa tabi
ko habang ang Kuya ang nag-da-drive, my Dad is frowning in the shotgun seat like a
kid.

"Dad," I called.

"Susuntok lang, eh." Inarte niya.

I suppressed my laugh from escaping my mouth, natigil si Mommy kakaharot kay

Queen Scira bago napailing.

"Si Thornie, parang baby." Mom said in amusement.

"Baby mo," my father whispered in the thin air.

Kuya Deion chuckled, glancing at me in the mirror.

"He's not like that asshole Lucas?" he asked.

"No," I answered, resting my back on the seat. "he's good, kumare ko iyon muna, then I
straightened him like a ruler bago manliligaw."

"Bet ka niya ngayon, anak, pero paano kung ang Kuya mo na bukas?" entrada ng Tatay
ko kaya suminghap ako.

"What the..." Kuya Deion muttered and my Mom bursted out laughing. Nakita rin si
Queen kahit walang naiintindihan sa pinag-uusapan para makisabay.

"Dad!" I hissed, sumipa sa upuan niya at natatawang nilingon niya ako at inayos ang
kanyang salamin.

"I'm just saying," he shrugged. "Nothing's impossible, Deion, landiin mo nga iyong
manliligaw niya—"

"Dad!" I hissed.

"Thornie!" Mom called and laughed hard.

"What? Dapat open tayo sa lahat ng posibilidad, psychology speaking..." he smirked at

me.

"Kawawa naman iyong bata, Thornie! Muntik mo ng sapakin, I know that was your long
time dream but—"
"I saw him hugging my princess, queen!" ngiwi ni Dad. "Aba, manliligaw pa lang pero
kung makayap sa anak ko!"

"Excuse me, coming from you?" my Mom laughed and shook her head. "Papaalala ko
lang sa'yo 'yong ginawa mo kahit hindi pa tayo noon—"

"Queen!" my Dad's cheek reddened and it's my turn to tease him now.

"Galit talaga ang mga tao sa kapwa niya." I said and grinned when my father glared at
me.

Nakarating kami sa resto nang halos sakalin ko na si Dad. Nakasimangot si Kuya roon
dahil sa asar ni Dad at tawa ng tawa si Mom at Queen Scira.

Nang makapag-park ay kaagad kong nakita ang pag-park ni Warren ng kanyang

sasakyan sa may tabi ng amin. Nauna na si Mommy sa resto kasama si Dad at akala
ko'y sasama na rin si Kuya pero nag-usap ata sila ni Thorn Arzeus kaya hindi ako
pinapakawalan.

"Let's go, princess." Kuya held my wrist.

"I'll go with Warren, Kuya." I said and he shook his head at me.

"No, come on." He said and I had no choice but to follow him.

Hila man ako ni Kuya papasok sa resto habang tanaw ko si Warren na nakasunod sa
amin sa hindi kalayuan.
I pouted and I saw how he smiled when he met my eyes.

"It's okay," he mouthed and nodded at me.

I am sighing while my brother is dragging me inside, nakaupo na sila sa isang private

room pagkarating namin at binubuksan na ni Mommy ang menu habang si Dad ay nasa
may gilid at may kausap sa telepono.

Kuya offered me a seat, ipinag-angat niya pa ako ng upuan at marahan akong umupo
roon habang nakatanaw sa pintuan.

I saw Warren approaching and I definitely can praise how he looks so hot just by simply
walking towards our direction. Kita ko ang ngiti ng attendant habang nakasulyap sa
kanya kay tumikhim ako.

"Augustine, here." I called stiffly, raising my brow.

Our eyes met, tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya bago naglakad patungo sa pwesto ko.
Inilahad ko sa kanya ang upuan sa tabi ko pero sa gulat ay may tumakbo sa upuan sa
tabi ko.

"Okay, bye. Just bring it to my office." Mabilis na sabi ni Dad at umawang ang labi ko sa
gulat nang unahan niya si Warren sa tabi ko.

Mom bursted out laughing, miski si Kuya ay napailing at natatawang uminom ng tubig.

Umupo ng maayos si Dad, sumulyap sa naeestatwang si Warren sa may tabi ko.

"Sit, anong tinatayo mo r'yan?" he asked strictly.

"W-wala, Sir." He cleared his throat.

Naupo si Warren sa pagitan ni Dad at Kuya Deion, seryoso siya at pasulyap-sulyap pa

sa akin but I know better, kinakabahan iyan.

My Mom is saying her orders sa waiter, hinihila naman ni Queen ang buhok ko kaya
ngumiti ako sa kanya.

"Come to Ate, baby." I said and offered my hand.

Lumipat siya sa akin at pinaglaruan ang buhok ko kaya natutuwang humalik ako sa
buhok niya. I pinched her cheek and smiled.

"I missed you, little baby." I whispered.

"Miss you too, 'te!" she cheered, her black eyes staring at me before hugging my neck.

I chuckled, hinayaan ko siyang nakayakap nang marinig ko ang pagbukas ng pinto.

Gusto ko mang lumingon ay hindi ko magawa dahil sa yakap ni Queen sa akin.

"Ate! Ate Clyte!" she cheered and I heard Ate Clyte's laugh.

"Hello too, baby!" She cheered. "Oh, is that Ate Scira?"

Marahang lumingon ako at napatawa nang makita si Ate na kaagad na lumaki ang ngiti
at lumapit sa akin para sa yakap at halik sa pisngi.

"Welcome back!"

"Hello, Ate!" tawa ko roon.

"You're here, darling." My Mom smiled at nagmamadaling humalik ang Ate sa kanya
bago kay Dad at Kuya.

"Mukhang may bisita tayo...oh!" I saw Ate Clyte's eyes widen. "Are you..."

"Yes, Ma'am." Warren answered.

"You know each other?" Kuya Deion's voice stopped us.

Nanlaki ang mata ko at nakitang natigilan si Ate Clyte at napasulyap sa akin. Warren
licked his lips. Ang mapanuring mata ni Dad ay tumitig sa amin.

"Oh, naging planner kasi ako last time 'nung party sa family niya!" Ate Clyte flashed a
smile at napahinga ako nang maluwag nang tumango ang Dad.

"Alright, sit down, young lady, kakain na tayo." Dad said and Kuya Deion stood to lift a
chair for Ate Clyte.

"Thanks, Eion." Ate smiled at him.

Ate Clyte is seated beside Mom, sa kabilang side niya ay naroon si Kuya. Nang kunin ni
Mommy ang bunso naming sa akin ay saktong dumating din ang in-order na pagkain ng
Mommy.

It was nice eating again with my whole family, pasulyap-sulyap ako kay Warren na
halos hindi na makakain dahil sa titig ni Dad at Kuya sa kanya. I can see how hard it is
for him to swallow his food.

Napangiti si Ate Clyte nang magtagpo ang mata namin at sabay kaming napasulyap
kay Mommy na busy sa pagsusubo kay Queen. Napaangat siya ng tingin nang
maramdaman ang titig namin ni Ate.

Her lips protruded in confusion.

"Yes?" she said softly.

"My..." lambing ko at humaba ang nguso. "Dad's been glaring at my suitor."

"Oh," she glanced at Dad and suddenly chuckled. "Thornie! Deion!"

The two men almost jumped from their seats.

"Queen..." Dad whined.

"Behave, you two." Umayos ng upo si Mommy bago sumulyap kay Warren. "So,
Warren, right?"

Augustine straightened his back and spoke. "Yes, Ma'am?"

"So...nililigawan mo ang prinsesa ko?" my Mom asked, matamis ang ngiti pero halata
ang kaseryosohan sa mga mata.

I saw Ate took Queen Scira para makaayos ang Mommy.

Warren glanced at me seriously before nodding, "yes, Ma'am."

"Are you serious about her?" Mom asked and my heart pounded when he glanced at
me again before nodding.

"I've...never been this serious my whole life, Ma'am." His serious, baritone voice
stopped me.

I felt my heart thumping hard, marahas akong napalunok. I saw Ate Clyte smiling at that
and Mom looks amused.

"That's good—"

"Lelang mo, serious." We all stopped when Dad spoke, biglang napatawa si Kuya Deion
at suminghap ako. Nawala nanaman ang kulay sa mukha ni Warren sa sinabi ni Dad.

"Sir, I am. I will prove it to you—"

"Her exes hurt her, Mr. Miranda." Nang magseryoso na si Daddy ay nahimik ang lahat.
"They're saying they'll be good to her and stuff when we meet them, well, some of them.
Hindi ko nakausap lahat ng ex nitong dalaga ko but what they all did in the end is just
the same."
"I won't be like them, Sir." He answered. "I may not be perfect but I will do my best not
to hurt her."

My heart actually melted at that.

"You're gay, right?" Kuya Deion asked and I almost held my breath. Nakita kong
nagtaka si Ate Clyte pero hindi siya nagsalita.

Nagkatinginan kami ni Warren kaya pinanlakihan ko siya ng mata.

"W-well, I-I used to be, Sir." Halos mautal pa si Augustine roon.

"You don't look gay to me," ani Dad na tumaas pa ang kilay at sumimsim ng juice.

"L-lalaki na po ako, Sir." Parang sundalong sagot ni Warren kaya napainom din ako ng
juice, halos dama ko na rin ang kaba niya.

"Weh? Tignan mo nga iyang lalaki ko..." my Dad said and blinking, Warren glanced at
Kuya who choked on his water.

"D-dad!" he groaned.

"Thornie!" nasapo ni Mommy ang noo at humagalpak si Ate.

"Gwapo, 'di ba?" he asked.

Namula ang mukha ni Warren habang si Kuya ay nagtatago ng mukha.

"P-po?" Warren stuttered and glanced at my father, suminghap naman ako at nagtakip
ng bibig.

"Sabi ko, gwapo ng anak ko, 'di ba?" ani Dad at napipilitan, Warren nodded slowly and
cleared his throat.

"Y-yes, Sir..." he said.

"Huh! I knew it!" ngisi ni Dad bago sumulyap sa akin at bumaling kay Warren, "See,
princess? So, ano? Hindi mo na bet itong Scira ko? D'yan ka na kay Deion—"

"Dad!" I gasped and Ate Clyte laughed harder, nakikitawa na rin si Queen at
pumapalakpak na rin.

"Jusmiyo..." Mom massaged her nape.

"N-no, Sir." Ani Warren kaya natahimik kaming lahat, seryoso kaming tumitig sa kanya
na umayos lang ng upo.

"I-I'm straight as a flagpole now, Sir." He said.

"Hmm," Dad fixed his glasses and stared at him seriously. "Scira pa rin ba?" his voice is
a bit loud and strong now.

"Scira Valderama lang kakalampag, Sir!" miski ako ay napasinghap sa sagot niya.
My family bursted out laughing, namumula na ang mukha ni Mommy sa kakatawa
habang si Kuya ay naiiling na umiinom na lang ng juice. Nanliit ang mata ni Dad at
ngumisi.

"What did you say, young man?" he said strictly and Warren straightened his back and
answered.

"Kay Scira lang kakalampag, Sir!" he answered again.

"Paanong kalampag?" Mom asked, laughing so hard.

"Nanginginig pa, Ma'am!" he answered and I covered my face in embarrassment.

We had no chance to talk when our dinner ended, after my Dad and him had a serious
talk, na hindi ko alam kung ano ay umalis na kami. Tanging sulyapan lang ang paalam
namin pero masaya ako habang nasa byahe pauwi ng bahay.

Kuya is driving, nasa front seat na ang Ate Clyte habang nasa likuran kaming apat. My
Dad's in the middle, nakasandal sa balikat niya ang tulog na si Mommy habang
natutulog din si Queen Scira sa may hita niya.

I yawned, nagkatinginan kami ni Dad kaya nagsalita siya.

"Rest on my shoulder, princess. I know you're tired." He smiled at me and like a kid,
kumapit ako sa kanyang braso bago umidlip sa kanyang balikat.
I woke up when we reached our house, kaagad akong lumabas at lumapit kay Ate. I
saw Kuya Deion on the backseat carrying Queen Scira while my Dad is carrying the
sleeping queen of our house.

Kaagad akong binati ng mga kasama namin sa bahay at kaagad kong ibinigay sa kanila
ang mga pasalubong ko, hinatid ko rin kina Ate, Kuya at sa mga magulang ko ang
kanila bago ako nagtungo ng kwarto para magpahinga.

Kinuha ko ang vase at nilagyan ng tubig bago ko inayos ang bulaklak doon.

I smiled when I was satisfied, kaaagad na nag-shower at nag-skin care bago kinuha
ang phone sa bag at nahiga sa kama.

A smile escaped my lips when I saw who sent me a message, kaagad ko iyong
binuksan at binasa.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Are you home? I'm home now.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Yeah, done showering.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Good, thank you for today, Ma'am. I enjoyed it. Can I call?
I smiled, super turned-on! Buo ang letra at ang mga bantas. Check ka r'yan, girl!

I bit my lip and answered him.

To: Kumareng Tintin

Sure, give me a minute.

Nang matapos kong mag-reply ay mabilis kong tinakbo ang vanity mirror para sa lip tint
ko, mabilis akong naglagay sa labi ko bago tumakbo ng mabilis sa kama at umayos ng
higa habang hawak ang phone.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Can I call now?

To: Kumareng Tintin

K.

Nang tumunog ang phone ay mabilis kong hinawi ang buhok ko at pumwesto sa
maganda ang pailaw para glowing and super pretty. I accepted the video call and I
almost cursed when I saw his face.

"Hi, Ma'am." He smiled when he saw me.

I chuckled, nawala ang focus ng camera sa mukha niya at napunta lang sa may noo
niya kaya napailing ako.

"Focus the camera sa face mo, Tin, I can't see you." I said.

"Wait, fuck, paano ba 'to?" reklamo niya kaya natawa akong lalo.

Inilayo niya ang camera, I saw his face but then nawala muli. Nalipat sa back camera
ang focus at halos manlaki naman ang mata ko nang makitang naka-pajamas lang siya,
mula sa focus ng camera ay kita ko ang hubad niyang pang-itaas.

Kita ko pa ang nagmamalaking anim na pandesal kaya nakagat ko ang labi.

"Oh, there." I frowned when the focus changed, nasa front camera na ulit.

"Bakit mo nilipat?!" maktol ko at mukhang nagulat siya.

"Ma'am?"

"Wala," nguso ko at inayos na lang ang sarili. "napatawag ka?"

"Just missed you," he smiled and my heart hammered inside my chest. "don't you miss
me too?

"Hmp, hindi, ah!" I frowned.

"Alright," he chuckled, umayos siya ng sandal sa headboard at parang adjustable ata
ang mata ko nang makita ang dibdib niya, nalaglag pa ng bahagya ang silver dog tag sa
leeg kaya lumunok ako.

"Done showering?"

"Hmm," I nodded, ngumuso pa at sinuklay ang buhok ko. "ikaw?"

"Done," he said, his black eyes stared at me. "you look beautiful."

"I know," I said proudly and smirked at him.

"You got nice lips tonight, baby, wish I could lick them." He said and my eyes widen.

"Augustine!" I hissed and he suddenly laughed.

"Anong flavor, Sis?" his voice soften. "mukhang matamis, ah? H'wag madamot, patikim
naman—"

"Tintin!" I hissed and his laughter roared. "'di ako nag-tint! Natural lips 'to!"

He raised his brow, chuckling. "Hmm, but you're beautiful, as always."

"Natural na ganda lang 'to," I said and raised my brow. "baka sabihin mo r'yan
nagpapaganda ako sa'yo, ah?!"
"Ay, hindi ba?" he teased, I saw how he licked his lip and brushed his hair with his
fingers, nagulo pa ang camera sa galaw niya.

"Hindi! Feeling!" I spatted.

"Sabi ko nga," he chuckled, umayos ako ng sandal bago saglit kaming nagkatitigan sa
camera. "Anyway, thank you for introducing me to your family, Ma'am."

"Well, biglaan." I chuckled and shook my head. "I plan to introduce you if sasagutin na
kita—"

"Oh, really? Kailan?" his smile widened, nae-excite na naupo ng maayos kaya
sumimangot ako.

"That's an if, Augustine!" I spatted. "Not sure, 50/50."

"It's alright, at least may chance." Ang laki ng ngiti niya kaya ngumuso ako at hinawi ang
buhok ko.

"Kaya prove yourself, pwedeng oo or hindi. You know I don't like introducing men to my
family tapos sa huli wala rin." I shrugged. "Nagulat lang ako kanina kasi naroon na pala
sila Dad."

"It's alright, I will prove myself to you." He stared at me seriously. "I know...men before
me came from great families, they're better than me but I'll work hard for your yes."

"Hmm, wait." I said seriously, ibinaba ang phone bago bumaba sa kama, lumayo ang sa
phone bago napatakip ng bibig.
"OMG!" I whispered to myself and screamed quietly, jumping a bit to let out my hidden
kilig inside.

"Ma'am?" I heard his voice kaya natauhan ako at tumikhim, umayos ng tayo at
seryosong bumalik sa kama.

"Oh?" I asked and gave him a straight face.

"What did you do? You're blushing." He chuckled and I shrugged.

"Secret." I answered and cleared my throat.

"Anyway," I cleared my throat. "Thank you for being patient with my Dad, you know he's
a bit overprotective."

"I understand," he chuckled. "he's a good father, thinking of his children's welfare. I
admire him for that. Kahit ako rin, kapag may manliligaw sa anak natin, istrikto talaga
ako."'

"Aba ang kapal!" I hissed and he laughed. "Hoy, Sir, hindi ko pa sure kung sasagutin
kita and here you are thinking of children."

"Advance mag-isip, mahal ko." He chuckled and winked. "I'll probably punch them all
too."

"Naku, swerte mo talaga at hindi ka nasaktuhan ng Daddy! Matagal na niyang pangarap

iyan!" I exclaimed and he laughed.
"Well, thanks to you saying that I am gay." He chuckled.

"Buti nga sa'yo, naku talaga, Tintin. Umayos kang lalaki ka, ah? Tandaan mong
nagpapanggap ka lang na bakla noon. Ako jojombag sa'yo kung matuluyan ka!" I
exclaimed and he laughed at me.

"Well, I'm a good actor, yes?" he raised his brow.

"Todo bigay iyong acting mo, makatotohanan." I pointed out. "A-ang skin care ko, Sir!"
ginaya ko siya at humagalpak kaya sumimangot siya sa akin.

"I'm a man, Valderama." He pointed out.

"I'm a man, Valderama." I teased with my spongebob voice and he glared at me.

I can't stop myself from laughing while remembering how he raised his foot earlier, how
my father teased him around with my Kuya Deion to prove his point. Halos hindi na ako
makahinga at iba na ang tunog ng tawa ko kaya natahimik ako.

I bit my lip and stared at him. Tahimik lang siyang nakatitig, may tagong ngiti sa mga
labi at naaaliw ang mga mata.

"S-sorry..." tikhim ko na biglang nahiya sa tawa ko. Umayos ako ng upo at tumikhim.

"Ma'am, alam mo bang scientist ako?" he asked out of nowhere kaya kumunot ang noo
ko.
"Huh? No—"

"At ikaw ang lab ko." Bigla siyang ngumisi.

Parang tumigil ata ang puso ko roon, medyo nag-loading pa ako pero nang matanto ay
nag-init ang pisngi ko at biglang napatili.

"Enebe keshe!" I said and his laughter roared. Napatili ako at pinalo-palo pa ang kama,
namumula ang pisngi at mabilis ang kalabog ng puso.

He's laughing, pinalo-palo ko naman ang kama pero sabay kaming natigil nang
bumukas ang pinto, my eyes shifted on the door and my eyes widen when I saw my
Dad holding a walis-tambo on his hand and looked around.

"Saan?! Saan ang magnanakaw, Scira?!" he exclaimed, panicking. Magulo pa ang

buhok at mukhang bangag at bagong gising.

Kabanata 16

Noong nagsimula akong magtrabaho sa firm, my Mom took a rest and tried different
things. Sa ngayon ay naaaliw siya sa flower shop niya. My father supports her in every
way he can, we all support her.

The queen's happiness is also our happiness. Wala kami kung wala ang Mommy kaya
sobrang mahal na mahal namin siya.
Minsan na lang siya sa firm, kagaya noong may proyekto ako sa ibang lugar. Noong
bumalik ako ay madalang at madalas ay wala siya kaya kapag nandito ang reyna kahit
nandito ako ay may seryosong problema.

Sabay kaming naglakad ni Mommy papasok ng firm. The employees panicked when
they saw us together, hindi na ako nagulat nang sabay-sabay silang bumati at
bahagyang yumukod.

"Good morning, Architect!" bati nila sa amin ni Mommy.

I smiled and nodded, ngumiti rin ang Mommy bago tumango, inaayos ang suot niyang
sunglasses.

"Good morning, have a good day." My mother said and nodded.

Magkatabi kami ng Mommy na naglakad patungo sa exclusive elevator, binabati kami

ng mga nakakasalubong at walang pagod na ngingiti ang Mommy at tatango.

Bilin niya sa akin noon na maging mabuti sa mga empleyado, they are the foundation of
our firm. Kung wala sila ay hindi kami magiging isa sa mga successful firm sa Pilipinas.
She said, she was once a bitch here, broken hearted daw siya kasi noon pero ayos na
ngayon.

I heard rumors noong bago pa nga lang ako rito na she's called the devil in a red dress
way back.

Wearing her heels and black dress, my Mom looked like the modern version of Audrey
Hepburn. Bagsak ang kanyang buhok sa balikat and when we got inside the elevator,
she raised her hand, wearing her black Gucci gloves to press the floor.
I giggled, nilingon ako ni Mommy at ibinaba ang sunglasses niya.

"Yes, princess?"

Nangiti ako lalo, natatawang yumakap ako sa baywang ni Mommy kaya natawa siya at
niyakap ako.

"What's the matter?" she chuckled. "naglalambing ang prinsesa ko, ah?"

"Nothing, you're just super pretty, Mom. I'm a fan." I said.

Natawa siya, nahawa ako roon kaya sabay kaming natawa.

"Well, you're beautiful too. Ate Clyte, my Scira Rosalie and Queen Scira are equally
beautiful. Mana kayo sa Mommy niyong maganda." She said.

Natawa ako roon.

"How about Kuya?" I looked at her.

"S'yempre gwapo, mana sa tatay mong tanders." She said and I laughed.

"You're bullying Dad again," pansin ko at ngumisi siya sa akin. Nabakas ko ang kislap
sa mga mata niya roon.

"Sus, kampi ka naman sa tatay mo. Sabi ko nga roon mag-tungkod na, eh, mahina na
ata ang tuhod. Binilhan ko rin ng Anlene para sa buto." She said seriously.
I bursted out laughing, natawa rin si Mommy sa sinabi niya at nailing.

"Charot lang, anak, h'wag mo sabihin kay Thornie baka magkaroon pa ng kasunod si
Queen." She said naughtily and I shook my head in amusement.

Wearing my navy blue high waisted pants paired with the same color coat and white
tube crop top, sumabay ako ng lakad kay Mommy.

Pagpasok pa lang namin sa conference room ay kaagad kaming binati at nag-umpisa

na ang meeting kasama ang mga investors at executives.

These days, our firm is in the state of losing our great employees, engineers and
architects. Noong una ay ayos lang naman, we can't control our staff, they could choose
where they wanted to work. Kung gusto nilang umalis ay p'wede at hindi namin pipigilan
but the lost of our employees is quite alarming this time.

Ang mga pambato namin sa mga malalaking proyekto ay nawala at nag-resign para
lumipat ng kompanya, ang mga bagong pasok naman ay tatagal lang ng ilang linggo at
mga buwan at pagkatapos ay aayaw na.

Now, our competency is at stake. The board are questioning our capability.

"We don't want to question this firm because we are investing for years, Architect
Valderama pero anong nangyayari?" one of the oldest board member asked my Mom
sitting in the center.

"Our employees can choose where they want to work, we can't force them in our
company if they don't like it anymore."
"Yes, Architect but the lost of our competent professionals are too much." Sagot ng isa.

"This is alarming," bumaling sa akin ang isa. "what do you think, Architect Scira? You
are the head here while Architect Zidney is gone."

"Well, I have to investigate in this matter." I answered.

"Noong nakaraang buwan pa ito pero hindi mo napansin?" an Engineer asked me.

"I am not aware we are losing that much employees, the HR never reported about this
matter and I have a lot of projects in hand—"

"Are you really competent?" I stopped when someone asked.

"Engineer Luciano," my Mom's warning voice called him.

"No, Architect." Itinaas nito ang kamay nang bumaling kay Mommy. "I'm sorry but this
never happened when you're in command here."

Seryoso at wala mang ipinapakitang emosyon ay nasaktan ako. I suddenly felt

disappointed at myself.

"Please, Engineer." My Mom said calmly.

"I don't want to question your daughter about this but I think she's too young to handle
this firm—"
"It's no one's fault, Engineer." My mother said. "No one here ever wanted to lose
competent professionals."

"Yes, I know, Architect but don't you think your daughter's too young for big
responsibility like this?" he asked.

Natahimik ang lahat, tahimik at diretso ang upo ko pero hiyang-hiya na ako sa loob-loob
ko.

"We will work on this," my Mom said instead.

"I think Engineer Luciano is right. You should train Architect Scira before leaving this
company in her command." Architect Relado said.

"I believe in my daughter, Architect. She can handle this—"

"But this is too much, kinekwestyon na ang kakayahan niyo sa kompanyang ito. Hindi
lang naman kayo ang namomroblema. The board is at risk too, we invested a lot of
money here."

"Someone might be spying on us," I said and they all shifted their gaze on me.

"What do you mean?" Mom asked.

"I don't want to conclude but someone might got inside our firm and now he or she is
recruiting our employees." I said.
Napatango sila sa akin, my Mom touched her head and sighed.

"Take care of the newly hired employees. Check the HR, Scira." Ani Mommy kaya
tumango ako sa kanya.

"Yes, Architect." I answered her formally.

"We should sort out what to do to cover this up for now, if the media found out about
this, baka magkaproblema." The Engineer said and I nodded.

"Yes, Engineer." I said.

"We will investigate in this matter as soon as possible," I muttered.

"Alright, we're looking forward for it. H'wag mo sana kami at ang tiwala sa'yo ng Mommy
mo bibiguin." He said and I nodded.

My Mom and I got busy for the whole day, madalang na lang si Mommy sa firm namin
kaya nalulungkot ako kapag nakikita siyang subsob sa trabaho. Ang naiwang trabaho
ng iilang mga Architect at Engineers na umalis ay pinagkasya naming sa amin at sa
mga natira.

The contracts from our ex-employees are well-taken care of by the firms they are
working now. Iba-iba ang mga pinuntahan nila, may iilang parehas kaya iyon ang
tinitignan ko ngayon.

Sandejas, Miranda and Flores. Kabilang kami sa mga kilalang firm sa Pilipinas at sa
iba't-ibang bahagi ng mundo kaya losing our employees like this is alarming. Wala
namang problema sa sweldo, we made sure they are getting the right and deserving
benefits.

I don't think susulutin ng ibang firm ang mga empleyado namin. For what, 'di ba?
They're successful too.

Nakadalawang baso na ata ako ng kape, kabi-kabila ang tawag at pagdating sa akin ng
papeles galing HR. Mag-gagabi na pero nandito pa rin ako.

Mom asked me to come with her but I refused, sinabi kong may gagawin pa ako kaya
nauna na siya. May emergency kasi sa flower shop niya so she has to leave early.

Hindi ako pinagalitan at sinisi ni Mommy sa nangyayari sa aming firm, she never told
me I disappoint her, she's always saying she's proud of me, she's proud of us pero bakit
pakiramdam ko ang palpak ko?

Ni hindi ko napansin ang nangyayari, wala akong alam. Hindi sapat na rason din na
hindi sa akin sinabi ng HR, dapat sana ay palagi kong kinakumusta ang mga
nangyayari sa mga empleyado.

I am too focused on my individual growth and success na napabayaan ko na ang

kompanyang hinahawakan ko. I forgot to check on my employees because I'm busy
being Miss Perfect.

Walang sinabi si Mommy, she says she believed in me but why...why am I having
doubts about myself now? Am I really incompetent? Inexperienced and too young for
this?

My phone rang, kaagad akong napangiti nang makita ang pangalan niya. Sumandal ako
at sinagot.
"Hello?"

"Hi, Ma'am, where are you?" he asked.

"Office," I said.

"Kumain ka na?" he asked and I shook my head, ipinikit ko ang mata at napabuntong-
hininga.

"Not yet," I answered. "you?"

"Not yet. You okay?" I heard concern on his voice.

"Of course, ako pa ba?" I chuckled. "I'm just...you know, tired."

"It's late, baby, you should eat now." I noticed his worry.

"But I have work to do, maybe after thirty minutes, uuwi na ako." I said.

"Alright, I'll wait for you here."

"Huh?" umayos ako ng upo. "saan?"

"I'm in the lobby, Ma'am." He chuckled and I gasped.

"B-bakit? Really? Uhm, marami pa kasi akong gagawin—"

"It's okay, I can wait here, lalaro na lang ako sa phone." He chuckled huskily and my
heart hammered inside my chest.

"Nakakahiya, Sir!" I gasped. "Sige, bababa na ako r'yan."

"But you have work, right? Okay lang, I will just wait here—"

"No, bababa ako." I said, mabilis na tumayo at inayos ang buhok.

"But you said—"

"Okay lang, overtime na lang ako bukas o kaya dadalhin ko ang trabaho sa bahay." I
said, inayos ko ang bag at inipit ang phone sa balikat.

"No, how about we eat there sa office mo?" he said and I froze.

"P'wede?"

"Why not? I can just buy foods sa fast food sa malapit tapos i-aakyat ko sa'yo." He said.

"But..." I remembered our conversation kaninang umaga. "gosh, it's date night?"
"Sana," he chuckled. "but you're busy, I understand. We can just date there in your
office while you work."

My heart melted, nakagat ko ang labi ko at umayos ng tayo at hinawakan ang phone.

"Sorry, Tin..." I sighed.

"It's alright," he chuckled. "I'll buy us food first then I'll go there to you."

"Alright, thanks, Mars." I sighed.

"No problem, Sis." He said, his voice swayed a bit and I laughed.

"Baklang 'to..." I hissed and his laughter roared.

Fifteen minutes had passed and I decided to go down and just wait for Warren para
sabay kaming aakyat sa office ko. Madilim na ang office, miski sina Anna at ang
secretary kong si Akisha ay nauna na rin.

I went down and greeted the employees who saw me.

Pumunta ako sa lobby, inikot ang paningin, akala ay naroon na si Warren pero wala pa.
I sat on the couch there, glancing at my phone to wait for his text when I saw him near
the entrance.

Kumunot ang noo ko, tumayo para lumapit pero natigilan nang makitang kausap niya si
Architect Marquez, one of our assets.
Nakita kong nakipagkamay si Warren sa kanya at masinsinang nag-usap.

My lips protruded, naglakad ako palapit sa kanila at nakita kong seryoso silang nag-
uusap.

Our eyes met, nakita kong nagulat si Architect nang makita ako at napabitaw kay
Warren.

"Architect Valderama," she called and smiled hesitantly, namula pa ang pisngi.

"Good evening, what's the matter?" ngumiti ako.

Warren glanced at me and smiled, may hawak siyang plastic at nilingon ako.

"Hey, baby." Kaagad siyang humawak sa baywang ko.

"Uhm, wala po, kakilala ko kasi si Engineer." She said, referring to Warren.

Sumulyap ako kay Warren at tumango siya, "we met at some conventions." He
answered.

"Oh..." I nodded and smiled. "tara, kain." Aya ko pero umiling ang huli.

"Hindi na, Architect, salamat." She smiled then glanced at Warren. "Una na po ako,
Architect, Engineer."
I nodded, nakita ko pa ang titig niya na malagkit sa manliligaw ko. She blushed a bit,
took a last glance and turned his back.

Tahimik ko siyang pinagmasdan habang paalis at si Warren ay parang tarsier kung

makakapit. He's touching my waist while kissing my head, sumimangot ako nang
maalala ang pamumula ng babae kaya mabilis na siniko ang sikmura niya.

"A-aww, Ma'am!" reklamo niya kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya, nanliliit ang mata.

"Sinong mas maganda, Augustine?" I asked and his forehead creased.

"Huh? Sino?" he asked, confused.

"Ako o 'yong—" I gasped when he gave me a quick kiss on the side of my lips. Nanlaki
ang mata ko at ngumisi siya bago humawak sa baba ko.

"Selosa ang mahal ko," he chuckled and I glared at him. "Of course, you're more
beautiful."

Augustine is always there for me, that's what I realized for the past months he's
pursuing me. Hindi niya nakaligtaang ihatid-sundo ako, he's checking me from time to
time, kung kumain na baa ko o kung may kailangan baa ko and the care he's been
giving me isn't suffocating at all.

I feel comfortable with him, I felt loved. Seryoso man ako sa ibang tao ay para akong
baby kapag nasa kanya. He's trying his best to ask me what's wrong, he's trying his
best to take care of me in his own ways.
Alam niya rin ang gagawin kapag sinabi kong family time, he won't bother me, he won't
use it against me. Kahit mas marami ang oras ko kaka-trabaho kaysa sa kanya ay
naintindihan niya.

He's too good to be true, he had everything I am looking for a man. Hindi ako nagsisi sa
ibinigay kong tyansa sa kanya.

"Dad, come on, wala namang ginagawa si Warren." I said, tinakpan ko ang mat ani
Daddy pero ibinaba niya ang kamay ko at seryosong tumitig nanaman kay Warren na
nakaupo at kausap ang mga Tito ko.

"Wala akong tiwala sa lalaking 'yan pa rin," he muttered.

"Come on, get over it, Tinik. He looked like a good kid to me." Tito Dash said, glancing
at Warren who's talking to Tito Zeijan at Wave Nievarez.

We are having a family get together today and I was advised to take Warren with me.
Well, we all took our lovey dovies here today for our parents and grandparents to meet
them.

Minsan lang nangyayari ito at masaya akong si Warren ang ipinakilala ko sa pamilya ko.
He's been courting me for months yet he's always consistent, sa totoo nga ay siya ang
pinakamatagal kong manliligaw.

I love Warren Augustine, I love how he made me feel, I love how he takes care of me. I
love him, everything in him. I am not perfect like everyone is telling me yet he made me
feel that I am one.

"Tss, hindi, eh. Tara nga rito, Deion!" Dad called, mula sa phone ay bumaling ang tingin
ni Kuya sa Daddy.
"Po?" he asked, fixing his glasses.

Nginuso ni Dad si Warren at bumaling kay Kuya. "Jowain mo nga iyong manliligaw ni
Scira."

"Dad!" I exclaimed.

Tito Dash laughed beside him, "seryoso, Tinik?"

"Dad," iling ni Kuya Deion. "I know Scira's young and I don't like watching her with
assholes pero ako talaga?"

"Warren's a good man, Dad." I snorted.

"Hindi, eh. Habang hindi ko napapatunayang hindi siya kakalampag sa Kuya mo—"

"What the hell, Dad?!" Kuya exclaimed, blushing.

Pinalo ko ang braso ni Daddy at tawa ng tawa si Tito Dash doon sa gilid.

"I'll buy you a house. Try lang, Deion, kapag kumalampag hindi na 'yan p'wede sa
kapatid mo." Dad negotiated.

"Ayoko, magkamatayan muna." Kuya muttered and Tito Zeijan appeared from nowhere
and grinned at us.
"Ano 'yan, bakit may kalampagan?" ngisi niya roon.

"Ako isasangla mo, ayan oh, Dad. Si Tito Zeij." Ani Kuya at tinuro si Tito Zeijan na
kumukurap lang sa harapan.

"Huh?" Tito asked and I gasped when I saw my Dad smirked while looking at him.

Ipinagtanggol ko si Tintin sa mapagsamantala kong Tatay at sa mga alagad niya.

Confused si Tito Zeij habang tatawa-tawa ang Tito Dash sa t'wing itutulak ni Dad ang
Tito kay Warren.

"What's the matter, baby?" Warren asked when I pulled him on the kitchen.

"Si Daddy kasi..." nguso ko. He chuckled, lifting his hand to remove a few strands of my
hair on my face.

"He's just protective of you," he said softly and tapped my chin. "it's alright."

"But he kept on saying na kakalampag ka sa iba..." I muttered and he laughed, licking

his lip, he placed a soft kiss on my forehead.

"Kay Scira Valderama lang kakalampag," he chuckled.

"Naku, Tintin. Kapag ikaw kumalembang sa iba, ako puputol ng kaligayahan mo." I
hissed and he chuckled.
"Should I post a sign on my forehead? Scira Valderama's property?" he said and my
cheeks flushed.

Nagulat kami nang may tumamang kung ano sa amin. Sa gulat ay nabitawan ako ni
Warren kaya naiwan akong nakatanga sa gilid.

My eyes widen when he fell on the ground because of too much force, si Kuya Deion ay
nasa itaas niya na mukhang gulat din at biglang lumitaw ang Tatay at ang mga Tito ko.

"What the fuck, Dad?!" sigaw ni Kuya.

"Ano? Ano? May spark ba?" Dad asked, dumukwang pa sa gilid nila and I gasped.

"Mommy! Si Daddy, oh!" eksaherada kong sigaw, naiiyak na, tinatawag ang Mommy.

My grandparents are aging like fine wine, I always admire their story. I love how they
once lost each other but love and fate brought them back together. Sana ay ganoon din
ako, sana ay si Warren na talaga.

As of now, I can't see myself dating other man. Parang hindi ko ata kayang may
pakisamahang ibang lalaki kung hindi si Warren iyon.

"Saan sina Kuya Chiel, Ate?" I asked when I realized Tita Thallia's family isn't here.
Nasa kwarto kami ngayong mga babae dahil busy iyong mga lalaki sa inuman at sina
Mommy at ang mga bata ay nasa kusina kasama sina Mama Lena at Papa Jer.

"Oh, dadating 'yon mamaya." She smiled at me.

"Anong nangyari?" Zirena asked, sinusuklay niya ang buhok ni Daru na busy kakatitig
sa bagong manicure na daliri. Si Ate Sibyl ay busy sa kaka-text sa gilid kaya napangiti
ako.

"I don't exactly know, Chiel called me, male-late kasi nasa presinto si Crest."

My eyes widen, nagkatinginan kaming magpipinsan doon.

"What?" I asked.

"I don't know what exactly happened, nakaw ata or something."

"Alam kong pirata si Ate ng movie pero thief?" Napailing si Zire, "Crest Sandejas,
magnanakaw? Baliw lang makakaisip 'nun!"

"I don't know, set-up, maybe? They're on their way here when the police called. Ayon,
sumugod sila. Swerte lang din niya at dalawang abogado ang bahala." She chuckled.
"Impossibleng gagawin iyon ni Crest."

"Family of lawyers," Ate Sibyl spoke and chuckled. "Set-up lang siguro, I believe she
won't do it. Sumama rin si Adira, ang ating aspiring lawyer."

I sighed, naisip si Ate but I believed Kuya Chiel and Tito Iñigo can do it.

We busied ourselves watching movies, pansin ko ang pananahimik ni Daru kaya

sumandal ako sa balikat niya.

"You okay?" I asked and glanced at her.

"Oo naman, bakit hindi?" she answered, nakangiti pa but I noticed something's off.

It's her first time cutting her hair that short, shoulder length na ito ngayon. Dati ay inch
lang ipapabawas niyan at iiyak pa kapag nasobrahan sa gupit.

"You have a problem," I concluded when her smile didn't reach her eyes.

She froze, maya-maya'y ngumisi at umiling.

"Nothing's wrong, Scira. I'm fine." She said, chuckling.

"Oh?" I stared at her. "Sige nga, kumusta 'yong nagdadala sa'yo sa langit?"

I saw how her eyes turned slit, nakangiti pero matapang ang mga mata. Kasing bait siya
ni Tita Reah but her face resembled a lot to an angry Tito Dash when she's like this.

"Alam mo kung anong nangyayari sa dinadala sa langit?" she asked and my forehead
creased.

"Huh?"

"Iniiwan sa ere," she said mysteriously and suddenly laughed. "charot! Tara, nuod na
tayo movie. Malapit na iyong patayan!"

Ganyan talaga, kapag nasaktan, idadaan na lang sa charot.

Days passed and I am more than busy sa work, we lost a few good professionals, mas
nadagdagan iyon pero kahit anong imbestiga ko ay hindi ko makuha kung anong
nangyayari.

Lumabas ako ng banyo nang matapos akong mag-ayos, pagkatapos ay dumiretso

palabas ng lobby when I saw Warren talking to Akisha, my secretary.

I saw Warren shrugging and shaking his head, may sinabi sa kanya si Akisha at maya-
maya'y nakita kong may inabot itong envelope sa babae.

I'm confused, may sinabi si Akisha at tipid lang na tumango si Warren at ngumiti.

I was curious pero hindi ako nagtanong, masama ang pakiramdam ko ngayon dahil first
day ng dalaw ko. I am irregular kaya kapag nagkakaroon ay sobrang sakit ng puson ko.

Ayaw ko mang pumasok ay kailangan, I wouldn't like Warren to know about it dahil baka
mag-alala siya.

He left after taking me to my office, binati naman ako ni Akisha at binigyan ng kape
pagdating ko.

Ayos naman ang trabaho ko pero kada halos limang minuto ay kumikirot ang puson ko.
I wanted to lay down in bed and sleep, naiiyak na ako sa sakit na dumurugtong sa likod
ko.

Damn it, I hate periods!

Dalawa hanggang tatlong papel lang ata ang nabasa ko dahil sa sama ng pakiramdam
ko, I forgot to buy my pain reliever. Wala ring compress para sa sikmura ko kaya
hinang-hina ako.

My phone beeped, kinuha ko iyon at binasa habang nakamukmok ako sa lamesa at

namimilipit sa sakit.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Hello, Ma'am, lunch time. Eat well. I love you.

Kinilig ako pero nawala sa pagkirot ng sikmura ko, napasinghap ako at wala pang ilang
saglit ay wala nang naisip na solusyon at tinawagan siya.

"Hello, Ma'am?" I heard his baritone voice in the other line.

"Uhm..." I bit my lip. "b-busy ka?"

"No, are you okay? Bakit bumubulong ka?" he immediately noticed it.

"Papasuyo sana ako ng compress," I said in a whisper.

"Compress? Why?"

"I-it's my first day of uhm... mens today. Masakit ang puson ko kapag ganito, h-hindi
naman palagi, nagkataon lang."
"Alright, I'm on my way. Wait for me." He said eagerly.

Sa kakaantay siguro at sakit ay nakatulog ako sa lamesa ko, naalimpungatan lang ako
nang maramdaman ko ang pagdapo ng likod ko kung saan.

Confused, I opened my eyes, only to see Warren placing his coat on my legs.
Nakaluhod siya sa gilid ko sa sofa, inaayos ang paa ko.

I saw him now wearing only his white dress shirt and slacks, bagsak ang kanyang
buhok sa noo at seryoso ang mga mata.

"Mars?" I called.

He immediately shifted his gaze at me, nabakas ko kaagad ang pag-aalala roon.

"Are you okay?" he asked. "masakit pa ba? Kanina pa? you could have told me para
kanina pa lang naaasikaso na kita."

"I'm fine," I smiled but his forehead just creased. Seryosong tumitig sa akin ang
kanyang mga mata at umigting ang panga.

"Fine? Eh, nakatulugan mo na ang sakit, Valderama." He said seriously.

I chuckled weakly, inabot ko ang mukha niya pero suplado lang siyang tumitig sa akin.
"M-medyo wala na ang sakit. Okay naman ako, Sir." I said. "T'saka, kaya ko 'to. Medyo
masama lang talaga ang pakiramdam ko kanina—"

"You are a bad actress, Scira." He sighed and I pouted. Mas humaba ang nguso ko
nang pitikin niya ang labi ko. "You can't lie to me."

"Tintin!" I whined.

He shook his head, umayos ng luhod sa tabi ko at pinatakan ako ng halik sa noo.

"Come here, sit. I bought a hot compress for your stomach, may pain reliever din at
chicken soup. Sorry, ako sana ang gagawa kaso matatagalan at baka sobrang sakit na
kaya bumili na lang ako."

He helped me in sitting, humawak kaagad siya sa baywang ko para umalalay habang

sumubsob naman ako sa kanyang balikat. I kissed his neck when I reached it,
bumuntong-hininga naman siya at humalik sa ulo ko.

"Thanks, Augustine..." I said weakly.

"I'm mad at you for going here in that condition," he said. "paano kung hindi lunch at
nasa meeting ako? Who could assist you here and take care of you, huh?"

"Kaya ko naman," I said.

"Kaya ko namaan," he mimicked me, ngumuso ako at pinalo siya.

"Bully!" I hissed.
"Everyone has weakness, baby. Hindi porket iniisip mong malakas ay hindi ka na
magpapahinga." I froze at that, napalunok ako at suminghap.

"Sorry..." I said in a small voice.

"I wanted to take care of you but I need you to cooperate, okay?" he said and I nodded.
"come on, look at me."

Slowly, I looked at him. Galit at iritado siya pero halata naman ang pag-aalala sa mga
mata. Suplado kunwari pero nang ngumiti ako ay umigting ang panga niya at kumunot
ang noo.

"Gwapo mo, sis. Pa-kiss nga." I said.

He stared at me seriously but I gave him a cute smile.

"H'wag na gagalit..." lambing ko.

"It's not funny, kapag may masakit sa'yo magsasabi ka kaagad. Paano kung mahimatay
ka sa sakit ng puson?" he asked.

"Sorry na," I sighed and smiled again. "good girl na ako ulit, Tintin. Bati na tayo?"

My stomach still hurts pero hindi na kagaya ng sakit kanina, marahil siguro ay dahil
nakapagpahinga ako saglit.
"No, kumain ka muna bago uminom ng gamot." Suplado niyang sabi at kinuha ang
paper bag sa gilid.

"Tintin, sorry na, sasabihin ko na sa sunod kapag masakit. Sorry na." I said,
naglalambing na yumakap sa baywang niya.

"No, kumain ka." He said, binuksan ang lagayan ng mainit na soup sa may maliit na
lamesa sa harap namin pero nanatili akong nakayakap sa baywang niya.

"Tin...anong pwedeng gawin ko para 'di ka na galit?" sinilip ko ang mukha niya.

"Nothing," he said, umiiwas sa tingin ko.

"Hmm, how about a hug?" I asked.

"No," he answered me.

"Kiss?" I asked. He froze, kumunot ang noo niya kaya akala ko'y papayag pero
tumikhim at umayos ng upo.

"Hindi ako marupok na tao, Scira Rosalie." He said and I chuckled.

"Weh?" I asked. He glared at me, natatawang humalik ako sa kanyang pisngi.

"Kakain na nga ako, sorry muna?" I said.

"Eat, Scira." He pointed the soup.

"Bati muna tayo?" I said and he frowned. "Hug?"

"No."

"Kiss?" I smiled.

"No," he said again.

"How about tayo na?" I asked and he shrugged.

"No," he said but stopped as if realizing something, mabilis niya akong nilingon. "totoo
ba?" he asked, wide-eyed.

"Issa prank!" I exclaimed and he glared at me.

Tawang-tawa ako pero nawala nang i-angat niya ang baba ko at pinatahimik ako ng
halik niya.

Warren went out to answer an important call from his office while I'm eating, lunch time
pa rin at naiihi ako kaya tumayo ako para pumunta sana sa banyo sa may gilid sa labas
ng office.

I'm feeling a bit well kaya lumabas na ako, nadaanan ko ang table ng secretary ko at
wala rin siya dahil lunch. Aalis na sana ako para umihi nang madaanan ng tingin ko ang
envelope sa lamesa niya.
I remembered her and Warren earlier.

I stopped, marahang lumapit sa kanyang lamesa at curious na kinuha ang envelope. I

know this is wrong, hindi dapat ako nakikialam sa gamit ng iba pero napapaisip ako
kaya hinayaan ko ang sariling gawin iyon.

Makapal na papel ang nasa loob, my forehead creased. Mabilis kong binasa ang nasa
unang pahina at halos mabitawan ko ang hawak sa nabasa.

Dear Miss Lopez,

Good day! Enclosed is the fully executed agreement for your acceptance of the
secretarial job offer from our firm. Your signing fee is on the process and we will let you
know once the check is available. We are hoping to work with you as soon as possible.

Regards,

Miranda Architecture and Engineering Corp.

Kabanata 17

Impossible, hindi ako naniniwala. He can't do this to me, he wouldn't. He won't lie to me
again, he promised me.
Ilang araw na ang nakalipas pero hindi pa rin mai-proseso ng utak ko ang nakita. Baka
nagkamali lang ako, baka iba naman talaga ang ibinigay niya. Nagkamali lang siguro
ako.

No, I am sure I'm just mistaken. He won't do it to me.

Ilang araw nang nararamdaman kong nagpaparamdam si Akisha, she's saying na

kailangan siya ng pamilya niya but I know better, she's just preparing me bago sabihin
ang pag-alis niya.

Patuloy pa rin ang imbestigasyon at hinahanap namin ang nagkokonekta sa mga firm
na pinaglipatan ng mga empleyado. Our company lawyer is taking care of legalities,
hindi na basta-bastang makakaalis ang mga ito dahil sa kontrata.

I still believe na ibang tao ang may gawa at hindi si Augustine. Nagkamali lang ako. I
am positive.

"What's the matter?" my eyes landed back to Warren and saw him staring at me.

We were having our date night tonight, sa condo niya kami kumain dahil pagod na ako
bumyahe sa resto at itong sa kanya ang pinakamalapit, gusto ko man maging masaya
ay hindi ko magawa dahil sa iniisip. Halos wala na akong pahinga sa nangyayari sa firm
ngayon, at ang isiping may posibilidad na ang mahal ko ang may gawa noon, hindi ko
alam kung kaya ko.

I stared at his face. He looks serious yet angelic when he's with me. His black eyes are
deep and soft, matangos ang kanyang ilong at bahagyang nakaawang ang mapulang
labi. I saw his hair's newly cut, bagay na bagay sa kanya ang buhok niya dahil mas
nadepina ang panga niya.
"You cut your hair," I said and I saw him stopped for a while.

He blinked, cleared his throat then I saw a smile escaped his lips.

"You noticed it," he commented and I smiled, sumimsim ako sa wine at tumitig sa
kanya.

"Bagay, mas lalo kang gumwapo." I said.

He stared at me, bigla akong napangiti nang medyo mamula ang mukha niya. He licked
his lower lip, napainom ng wine kaya natawa na ako.

"Maka-blush 'to, babae ka, girl?" I asked and he chukled, pinasadahan niya ng kamay
ang buhok at napailing.

"Nothing...I just, nababakla ata ako, Ma'am." He said and my brow lifted.

"What?" I frowned. "don't tell me you like my brother na?"

"What? No!" his eyes widen, napairap ako at ngumuso.

"Oh, bakit nababakla?" I glanced at him then slowly glared.

"I just...you know that feeling when your heart's beating fast?" he asked and I nodded.
"Yeah, I feel that too." I answered and his eyes widen a bit.

"Really?" he asked and I pouted, nodding.

"Oo," I said. "bakit?"

"You are feeling that, babae ka, normal lang naman sa'yo but I am feeling that too. Am I
gay?" he asked, seriously.

Bigla akong natawa, ngumuso siya sa akin. He rested his back on the chair, crossing
his arms on his chest while looking at me, as if it's unbelievable I am laughing that hard.

"Gay? What the heck, Augustine?" I exclaimed.

He licked his lip, tumalim ang tingin niya habang tumatawa ako.

"I knew you'll laugh at me," he pointed out. "but am I? Answer me, that's a normal
reaction for girls, right? Pero I felt that too, does it mean—"

"Kailan mo lang nararamdaman 'yan?" I asked, curious now.

"Just with you," he confessed. "It feels gay feeling giddy all the time you'll smile at me or
just that, noticing simple things like my hair cut."

I remained silent, kumakalabog ang puso ko habang nakatingin sa kanyang

nagsasalita. I feel happy now that I heard that from him.
"It isn't gay," I said and he glanced at me.

"Really?" he asked like a kid.

"Hmm," I nodded and sipped on my wine. "it's a natural reaction when you love or like
someone and you're with them."

"Kahit...lalaki?" his brow lifted.

I chuckled, sinipa ko ang paa niya kaya napangisi na siya.

"Yes! Baklang 'to...ano talagang bumigay ka na ba?!" I hissed and he laughed, umayos
siya ng upo at pinagmasdan ako.

"Sa'yo nga lang kasi kakalampag." He chuckled. "Architect Valderama lang, sapat na."

I chuckled, nawala sa utak ko ang iniisip at ang pangamba ay napalitan ng kung anong
ganda sa pakiramdam. A day with Warren always lifts my mood, palagi siyang nariyan
sa tabi ko kahit madalas ay moody at mang-aaway lang ako.

"Do you love me, Tin?" I asked and I saw how his smile faded a bit, sumeryoso siya
bigla at tumitig.

We stared at each other for a while, it was a great view, with his serious handsome face
and the city lights at night in his background.

"Yes," he said seriously, without even blinking and my heart raced. "I liked you since the
first time I saw you."
"Huh?" my eyes widen. "Kailangan? 'Yong sa ospital?" I asked and he shook his head.

"Nah," he said and my forehead creased.

"That's the first time I met you, Augustine." I said, "tinulungan mo ako sa vending
machine kasi hindi makuha ang inumin ko."

"That's actually the fourth time," he said and my heard pounded.

"Talaga ba?" hindi makapaniwala kong tanong at tinitigan siya. "I don't remember
meeting you..."

"I know," he chuckled a bit at me. "you're still young that time, nag-uumpisa ka pa lang
sa firm niyo. Your family held a party to welcome you and you were so beautiful that
time..."

Bigla kong naalala ang party na sinasabi niya, I was just twenty that time!

"I don't remember seeing you, I mean, I met the guests and..."

"Proxy lang ako," he said and my forehead creased. "Vioxx, my cousin is the one invited
but he couldn't go kaya ako ang pumunta."

My mouth parted at that.

"Really?"
"Hmm," he smiled. "second one is in a convention abroad, third is at a restaurant, I
bumped into you when you are walking."

My forehead creased, pilit na inaalala ang sinasabi niya pero sa dami ng convention at
restaurant na napuntahan ko ay hindi na malinaw sa akin.

"Don't force yourself remembering that," he said when he noticed me thinking.

Napalunok ako at sumulyap sa kanya. "I tried but...I'm sorry, Sir. Marami na kasi akong
napuntahan." I sighed.

"It's okay," he said. "I am just trying to say that I've never been attracted to someone like
this in the past. I liked you when I first saw you, akala ko hanggang doon na lang kaya
hinayaan ko na, but then, we met again, you thought I am gay so I..." he blushed.

"Baliw ka ba?" I hissed and he looked at me, shocked of my outburst. "Kung bet mo
pala ako edi sana chumurva ka na!"

He almost laughed pero kinagat ang labi niya para pigilan.

"I'm shy, baka sabihin mo, patay na patay ako—"

"Hindi ba?!" I glared at him and I saw his cheeks flushed before clearing his throat.

"Patay na patay nga," he said in a small voice and I gasped.

"Naku, Tintin! Kung sumunggab ka kaagad, edi sana ikaw na! I shouldn't have met
other man! I shouldn't have jump from a relationship to another just to please my family,
just to try and unconsciously look for love!" I exclaimed exaggeratedly and he stared at
me and blink.

"I'm sorry—"

"Para kang pagong sa bagal, kainis." Reklamo ko at sumimangot.

He bit his lip, nakita kong natatawa na siya pero pinipigil kasi iritado ako sa
pagmumukha niya.

"I didn't know na marupok ka rin, Ma'am." He commented, teasing. Nakahalukipkip ako
habang nakasimangot sa kanya pero nakataas ang sulok ng labi niya sa akin.

"Lelang mo, Tintin." I hissed.

I saw how amusement played on his deep black eyes, he smiled. I kept on praising him
but my heart thumped harder at that simple move.

"Come here," he tapped his lap.

My brow raised, ngumuso ako at sumulyap. "Ano ka, chicks? Bakit ako uupo sa hita
mo?"

"Ayaw mo ba?" he asked, smiling and I frowned.

"S'yempre gusto!" I exclaimed and stood.

He laughed, tumayo ako sa upuan ko at lumapit sa kanya. I saw his eyes darted on my
body then back to my eyes.

"You look beautiful, Ma'am." He said.

"Anong bago?" I asked and he laughed at me and moved a bit.

"Nothing, I love you." He said. My heart pounded, I've been reading this in novels I've
read before but it's true na kapag masaya ka, tila may paru-paro sa t'yan mo.

I'm happy, nang maramdaman ang hawak niya sa baywang ko ay tahimik akong
sumandal sa kanyang leeg.

"Tin?" I called and I felt his hand playing with my fingers.

"Hmm?" he hummed, sinundan ko siya ng tingin nang hagkan niya ang likod ng palad
ko.

I saw the sincerity in his eyes, I can feel the warmth his body has, kahit malamig ang
gabi ay dama ko ang init niya.

Would you really do that, Augustine?

"Do you love me, Warren?" I asked again and his eyes landed back on me. Halos
magkapantay na ang mga mata naming dalawa.
"I do," he said while staring at me.

I nodded and smiled, hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya at napansin ko ang pagtitig niya sa
mga mata ko.

"Have you been sleeping? You have dark circles." He noticed, naramdaman ko ang
paghaplos ng daliri niya sa ilalim ng mata ko.

"Just work," I said softly, inabot ang kanyang kamay sa pisngi ko. "marami kasing
project."

"Are you eating well? Kinakain mo ba 'yong lunch na pinapadala ko?" he asked again
and I nodded.

"Yes,"

"Sa tamang oras?" he raised his brow and I bit my lip and chuckled a bit.

"Minsan sa tamang oras pero—"

"Scira..." he called me, umigting ang panga niya at hinanap ang mata ko. "is there
something wrong?"

"Wala naman," I said softly.

"There is," he concluded while looking at me. "tell me, maybe I can help you. Sa
kompanya ba?"
Hindi ako umimik, muling naalala ang pag-abot niya ng envelope sa sekretarya ko.

"Baby," he called again and touched my chin. "look at me."

Slowly, I did.

"I've noticed your silence, hindi ka naman masyadong palasalita but I can see
something's bothering you." He said. "May problema ba?"

"I was just pressured," I said. "no big deal."

"You should learn how to rest too." He said, marahang yumakap pa siya sa baywang ko
kaya hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya. "You are flawless, baby, pero hindi naman lahat ng
oras kailangan mo maging perpekto. You are a person too, lahat tayo kailangang
magpahinga minsan."

I nodded slowly, "I'm resting naman, Augustine."

"There's something in your eyes," he said. "it wasn't like that before."

"Huh?" kumunot ang noo ko. "bakit? Ano bang mayroon sa mata ko dati? Naging blue
ba?" I tried joking around yet he remained serious.

"No..." he shook his head, looking so bothered. "it's just that, your smile didn't reach
your eyes that much."

Nawala ang ngiti ko roon, hindi ko iyon napapansin but these days, I feel off. Pagod na
pagod ako at nalulungkot, sometimes, I don't know what to believe anymore.
Ang nabasa ko bang sulat o ang pag-ibig na sinasabi niya.

"Scira..." he called me, umigting ang panga niya at hinanap ang mata ko. "is there
something wrong?"

"Wala naman," I said softly.

"There is," he concluded while looking at me. "tell me, maybe I can help you. Sa
kompanya ba?"

Hindi ako umimik, muling naalala ang pag-abot niya ng envelope sa sekretarya ko.

"Baby," he called again and touched my chin. "look at me."

Slowly, I did.

"I've noticed your silence, hindi ka naman masyadong palasalita but I can see
something's bothering you." He said. "May problema ba?"

"I was just pressured," I said. "no big deal."

"You should learn how to rest too." He said, marahang yumakap pa siya sa baywang ko
kaya hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya. "You are flawless, baby, pero hindi naman lahat ng
oras kailangan mo maging perpekto. You are a person too, lahat tayo kailangang
magpahinga minsan."

I nodded slowly, "I'm resting naman, Augustine."

"There's something in your eyes," he said. "it wasn't like that before."

"Huh?" kumunot ang noo ko. "bakit? Ano bang mayroon sa mata ko dati? Naging blue
ba?" I tried joking around yet he remained serious.

"No..." he shook his head, looking so bothered. "it's just that, your smile didn't reach
your eyes that much."

Nawala ang ngiti ko roon, hindi ko iyon napapansin but these days, I feel off. Pagod na
pagod ako at nalulungkot, sometimes, I don't know what to believe anymore.

Ang nabasa ko bang sulat o ang pag-ibig na sinasabi niya.

I stared at him and he quietly stared back at me. It was as if my eyes gave me away
with his next question.

"Did I...did I do something wrong?" he asked and I was taken aback.

Hindi kaagad ako nakasagot, I saw how his forehead creased at that.

"Did I?" he asked, "r-really? tell me, para...para maayos ko. May hindi ka ba gusting
ugali sa akin? Am I too fast? Am I pressuring you?"

I bit my lip, hindi nakapagsalita at napabuntong-hininga na lang.

"Did I do something wrong?" he looks confused.

"Did you, Augustine?" I asked, staring directly into his eyes.

His forehead creased, mas tumitig siya sa akin at mas nagseryoso.

"May mali ba akong nagawa? Am I too clingy?" his eyes soften and he touched my
cheek. "N-nasasakal ka ba? Should I loosen up a bit? N-nagsasawa ka na sa mukha
ko?"

I don't know why but I felt weaker with that, my Dad taught me how to distinguish people
and as I looked into his eyes, I saw nothing but confusion.

"H-hindi naman..." I said softly. "Do you love me, Augustine?"

"I do," he said and took a deep breath. "I don't even know if I can love like this again."

"I love you too..." I said in a whisper and I saw how his eyes brightened at that. He
stopped, nakita ko ang bahagyang pag-awang ng labi niya sa narinig.

"I love you too, August." I said again, tumulo ang luha sa mata ko at nagulat ako nang
lumuha rin siya.

My heart raced, hinampas ko ang balikat niya at suminghap.

"B-bakit ka umiiyak?" I hissed and sobbed. "A-ako ang nauna, ah! Bakit gumagaya
ka?!"
"I-I don't know, fuck..." he closed his eyes and harshly dried his tears. "I-I don't know, I-
I'm just so happy."

Kinagat ko ang labi ko at suminghap.

"Warren..." I called.

He raised his hand and dried my tears. "D-don't cry."

"U-umiiyak ka rin, ah!" I exclaimed and sobbed harder.

His eyes glistened a bit, hinawi ko ang luha niya at ganoon din ang ginawa niya sa akin.

"I love you," he whispered and cupped my cheek. "don't cry, please. Parang nagluluksa
ka naman sa sinabi mo."

I chuckled, tinampal ko ang pisngi niya at sinamaan siya ng tingin. "I'm just emotional!
Akala mo hindi ka rin umiyak!"

"Emotional din ako, bakit?" he exclaimed and we both laughed at that.

He moved his head a bit and tilted my chin, napasinghap ako nang marahan niya akong
halikan. His kisses are still the same, soft and gentle yet filled with unnamed emotions
inside. I gasped when he coaxed my mouth, his tongue fighting with mine as he gripped
my waist tighter.
The chair moved a bit, mas umayos ako ng upo sa kanyang kandungan at mabilis na
pumihit sa kanya paharap. He helped me straddled him, umangat ang skirt ko sa
ginawa at mas niyakap ko siya habang nagpapalitan ng halik.

His kisses are warm and hot, ramdam ko ang pagkabog ng puso ko habang hinihila ang
buhok niya. I felt his hand on the side of my waist, bumaba iyon sa hita ko at marahang
humaplos kaya mas naghabol ako ng hininga.

I can feel my stomach churning, nangilid ang luha ko habang gumaganti ng halik sa
kanya. I opened my mouth when he seek for entrance, bumaba rin ang kamay ko sa
kanyang batok at marahang sinuklay ang kanyang buhok.

Our eyes met, my hand went on his dress shirt and started unbuttoning it and he did
mine too. I touched his hard chest when I'm done opening his shirt and my eyes widen a
bit when I felt his hand on my breast.

I gulped, I saw how his eyes darken and my breath hitched when he lowered his head
and kissed the skin in between my breast. I watched his dark hair while feeling the
warmth of his tongue on my peaks.

I gasped for air, lumiyad pa akong lalo at napasandal na sa lamesa para mas bigyan
siya ng espasyo. I saw how his tongue flicked on my peak, his other hand cupping the
other and my eyes remained looking at him, watching him lick me like a thirsty lion.

I closed my eyes and moved my waist a bit, taunting him. I felt him froze when I did that.

"No..." he said and my eyes widen when I felt him more on my butt.

"H-huh?" I gulped, consciously moving my waist more until he's growing and more
turned on.
"F-fuck, Scira, no..." he said, licking his lower lip hardly.

Madilim ang kanyang mukha, his eyes met mine and I saw how his adams apple moved
up and down with pressure.

"Why..."

"Stop, Ma'am." His breath labored.

"H-hmm?"

"I'm fucking turned on now, baby." He said and stared at my eyes.

"T-then, let's do it." I said and I saw how his eyes dilated. Marahas siyang napalunok,
nakita ko ang pagbaba ng tingin niya sa hantad kong dibdib at mariing napapikit.

I watched him whispered a hard curse, umigting ang panga niya at nagulat na lang ako
nang marahang humawak siya sa baywang ko at mabilis na nagdampi ng halik sa labi
ko.

I watched him lift my brassiere up and fixed my blouse, napalunok ako sa ginagawa
niya at mas kumalabog ang puso.

"M-mars?" I called, mukha siyang nahihirapan kaya hinalikan ko ang labi niya.

"Huh?" his eyes went back to me kaya nagsalita ako.

"Don't you want me?" I asked softly, hindi alam ang dapat maramdaman ngayong
inaayos niya ako.

"I love you, Scira, okay?" he said seriously and glanced at my eyes. "and I want you
so...so bad."

"Then, why..." I muttered but he smiled, placed a small kiss on my forehead before
pulling me for a warm hug.

"I love you, I will take you when you're ready. Not when you're tired and pressured.
There are still a lot of time for making love, I think what you need right now is a hug." He
chuckled.

"A-asshole, pagkakataon mo na nga..." tinampal ko ang likod niya kaya natawa siya,
nangingiti naman ako roon at mas sumiksik sa kanyang leeg.

I felt his soft kiss on my hair, mas yumakap ako at naramdaman ang kung anong init sa
puso ko sa simpleng mga ginagawa niya.

"I will do my best to love you right, I will do my best not to disappoint and be perfect." He
whispered and I bit my lip.

"Y-you don't have to be perfect, Tintin." I said. "Just be who you really are, I don't need
a perfect boyfriend, just be my kumare and Augustine like you used to be and I'll be
alright."

"I will," he chuckled. "binilhan nga kita ng lipstick kanina 'nung dumaan ako sa mall.
Ganda ng shade, kiss proof din daw. Gusto mo?"
I suddenly laughed, kinurot ko ang baywang niya kaya napaigtad siya at mas natawa.

"What?" he asked, laughing.

"Baka matuluyan ka na!" I exclaimed.

"Dalawa 'yon, red 'yong isa." He said and we both laughed.

Sa lamig ng gabi ay mas naging komportable ako at nakuntento sa simpleng yakap

niya.

"Tintin?" I called and he hummed. "I know you don't usually do promises but, can you
promise me one thing?"

"What?" he asked. "I will do my best to keep it."

Hinaplos ko ang buhok niya at humalik sa kanyang tainga.

"Promise me you won't lie again." I whispered.

He remained silent for a while, akala ko ay hindi sasagot pero naramdaman ko ang mas
mahigpit niyang yakap sa akin.

"I won't..." he heaved a deep breath. "I promise."

I heaved a relaxed sigh, hinding-hindi ko makakaya kapag nagsinungaling ka ulit.
Hinding-hindi.

Tears fell on my cheek as I was looking at the papers on my hand.

"A-are you sure about this?" nanatili akong nakatungo habang nakatitig sa papel para
hindi makita ang mga mata ko.

"Yes, Architect. We double check po and lahat po ng maliliit na firms na pinaglipatan ng

mga empleyado ay konektado at subsidiary company lang po ng Miranda firm."

"A-alright..." I nodded, "Salamat."

He left, nanatili akong nakatitig sa papel na ibinigay at pagod na napasandal sa swivel.

When he left, my tears fell and my body began shaking.

No...he can't do this to me. Warren would never do this! Hindi ako naniniwala. This is
wrong!

May kumatok sa opisina, mabilis akong nagbaba ng tingin, kinuha ang shades at narinig
ang pagpasok ng secretary ko.

"Uh, Architect. Hello, sorry po kahit uwian na, isa lang po, pahabol na pipirmahan." She
said.

Tumango lang ako at tahimik na iniabot ang folder na ibinigay niya, I saw her glancing
at the shades I am wearing but didn't say anything.
I signed the papers she gave me, sumulyap ako sa date na naroon at nagsalita.

"What's the date?" I asked.

"August first po, Architect." She said and I nodded.

Nang matapos ay mabilis ko sa kanyang ibinalik ito, tumayo sa swivel at kipkip ang mga
dokumento at ang bag ay lumabas ako para umuwi.

My phone kept on ringing pero wala akong lakas para buksan at basahin iyon. The
employees greeted me pero ni ngiti at tango ay hindi ko magawa. Each step I make is
painful, nangingilid muli ang luha ko at halos mapaupo na sa lapag nang maabot ko ang
aking sasakyan.

"Y-you're strong, Scira. You're strong." Bulong ko sa sarili.

Muling tumunog ang phone at kahit nanghihina ay kinuha ko iyon.

From: Kumareng Tintin

Hi, baby. Sorry kung hindi kita masusundo, may emergency lang sa firm.

I closed my eyes, nang muling tumunog ay sumulyap ako at nakita ang bagong
message.

From: Queen Zidney

Go home. We need to talk.

I lowered my head, tila talon na umagos ang luha sa pisngi ko. Pagod kong isinandal
ang noo ko sa manibela at humikbi.

He won't do this to me. He promised me! He'd never do this to me!

I trust him. Mahal ako ni Augustine. He would never lie again, I believed it.

Buo ang loob na hindi sa akin nagsisinungaling si Warren, I went home. Malakas ang
kalabog ng dibdib ko habang naglalakad papasok ng bahay, it was unusually quiet
today, sa pagpasok ko pa lang sa bahay ay naabutan ko si Dad na nakatayo sa gilid
habang si Mom ay nakaupo sa sofa at nakapikit ang mata.

I removed my shades and glanced at them.

"Mom?" I called.

She opened her eyes and I saw her tired ones. Kaagad siyang tumayo at miski si Dad
ay lumapit sa akin.

"You've got it, right?" she asked, showing me the envelope identical to what I have now.

"Yes," I said softly, nodding my head.

"What will you do about this?" she asked, nanatiling tahimik lang si Dad doon at
nakamasid sa aming dalawa.
"None," I answered timidly and stared at her.

Her forehead creased, I saw how her black eyes sharpen a bit.

"What do you mean? Wala kang gagawin? It was that man who did this to our company,
Scira. Sa kompanya kung saan ka nagtatrabaho." She pointed out.

"We should investigate, Mom. We can't possibly believe this kaagad. What if—"

"We doubled check, Scira." She pointed out, her forehead creasing.

"Yes, but can we at least consider that it was Warren—"

"Yes, it is Warren, anak. We checked and he's the only Miranda who can get to us that
close." She explained, "we saw from the CCTVs, siya ang nag-abot ng envelope sa
mga umalis, Scira. We caught one envelope from our employee yesterday and it was
from him."

Hindi ako nakapagsalita, I closed my eyes tightly and shook my head.

"You're just mistaken, Mom. Hindi si Warren iyon—"

"Then who, Scira?" she said hardly and I opened my eyes, only to see her cold eyes.
"tell me who could possibly go inside our firm to recruit our employees?"

"I-I don't know, baka iba. Hindi 'yon si Warren, impossibleng—"

"Maybe you are really too young for this responsibility." She said in finality and I froze. I
glanced at her and saw her cold face.

"M-mom..." I whispered, I can feel the aching inside my chest.

Nasaktan ako noon sa sinabi ng board but I never expected it'll hurt more hearing it
from my mother.

"They're right, masyado ka pang bata para sa posisyon mo—"

"Wala ka bang tiwala sa akin, Ma?" I asked and I saw her cold eyes as she shook her
head. My father remained quiet, nanatili siyang tahimik sa likod ng Mommy.

"I have but seeing you now? I'm disappointed, Scira." She said and my eyes almost
burned from the sting of upcoming tears.

"M-mom..."

"Bakit ka nagpapakabulag sa pag-ibig, anak? I get it that you are in love pero h'wag ka
namang maging bulag sa malinaw at nasa harapan mo na. Open your eyes." She said
eagerly.

"I am!" tumaas ang boses ko roon. "he promised me he'd never lie! He promised me,
Mom! Bakit ang dali lang sa inyong mambintang?"

"Lahat ng ebidensya ay tinuturo na siya, Scira Rosalie!" she exclaimed sharply.

"Queen..." my Dad tried calming her pero humiwalay siya sa akin at seryoso akong
tinitigan.

"Wake up, Scira! He was fooling you! He probably got close to you so he could do this
to your company!" she exclaimed. "wake up! Hindi porket maayos sa paningin mo ay
ganoon talaga!"

"Hindi niyo kasi siya kilala!" I exclaimed, "why can't you just trust me?! I know
Augustine, Mom! Mas kilala ko siya kaysa sa inyo kaya wala kayo karapatang
husgahan siya!"

"Don't raise your voice at your mother, young lady!" my Dad's mad voice stopped me,
nahulog ang luha sa pisngi ko roon nang makitang galit na rin siya.

"Hindi kasi kayo nakikinig! I know him, Dad! K-kaya...wala kayong karapatang
pagbintangan siya!"

"We get your point but do not ever talk back like that to your mother!" he exclaimed.

My Mom glanced at me and shook her head.

"He did it, Scira." She said and I shook my head.

"No!" I exclaimed, "he didn't do it!"

"Listen to me!" she exclaimed. "Ako ang Nanay mo kaya making ka sa sinasabi ko! That
man won't do you any good! Look at you! Nagpapabulag ka ngayon, I believed in you
yet you disappoint me—"
"I know I am a disappointment, Mom!" I exclaimed and sobbed. "K-kahit disappointment
ako ginagawa ko ang lahat para maging maayos! So, I could meet your expectations of
me! Kasi anak niyo ako, eh! Kasi Sandejas at Valderama ako! Kaya ko nga ginagawa—
"

"I never told you to be perfect, Scira!" she exclaimed, her eyes are now bloodshot.
"kahit kailan ay hindi kita pinilit na maging perpekto!"

"But I did!" I exclaimed, sobbing. "I did try being perfect kasi...kasi perfect ka!"

"Y-you're..." Mom shook her head at me.

"I entered relationships kasi sabi niyo maganda ang pamilya nila! Kahit pagod na pagod
na ako minsan hindi ako nagsasabi kasi gusto kong maging proud kayo sa akin!" I
exclaimed.

"Scira, we are proud of you. We never told you to pressure yourself—"

"'Yon nga, Dad. Alam kong wala kayong sinabi but I am trying my best! K-kasi anak niyo
ako, eh!" I cried harder. "k-kaya sana pakinggan niyo rin ako minsan! Warren would
never do that!"

"Stop being blind, Scira. Listen to me." My Mom said, tears were on her cheek.

"N-no, I'd never listen to you again! Ako naman ang pakinggan niyo!" sigaw ko.

"Scira!" my father's voice roared angrily.

We heard cries, sa paglingon ko ay nagising si Queen Scira sa ingay.

"Fuck..." my father cursed and walked towards my sibling.

"No, you listen to me." My mother said coldly. "That man is toxic to you! Look at what
you're doing right now! You wouldn't listen to me! I thought he's a good man but look
what he did—"

"He is a good man, Mom! Bakit ayaw mong maniwala sa akin?!" I exclaimed and she
froze.

"H-how dare you raise your voice like that?" she pointed out, her cheeks filled with
tears. "M-minahal ko kayo, inalaagan tapos sisigawan mo lang ako—"

"K-kasi hindi ka nakikinig!" I screamed frustratedly.

"Scira! Zidney! Lower your voices!" my father exclaimed, mas lumakas ang iyak ni
Queen pero walang nagpapatalo sa amin ng Mommy.

"I-I am doing my best to give the best to all of you! Tapos ito lang—"

"Hindi mo alam ang gusto ko! Wala kayong alam! Wala kasi kayong pakialam—" sigaw
ko pero natigil nang lumagapak ang kamay ni Mommy sa pisngi ko.

Nanatiling nakapaling ang mukha ko, patuloy na tumutulo ang luha sa mga mata. I saw
my brother and sister entering.
"M-mom!" Ate Clyte ran towards us, mabilis na humawak kay Mommy pero sa gulat ko
ay mabilis din siyang nasampal ng Mommy.

"Isa ka pa!" My mother exclaimed, sobbing. "A-ano bang ginawa kong mali para
ganituhin niyo ako?!"

"Deion! Bring your sister outside!" mabilis na lumapit ang Kuya ko at kinuha si Queen
bago mabilis na inilabas ang bunso na hindi matigil sa pag-iyak.

"M-mom..." Ate Clyte cried while touching her. "S-sorry, Ma..."

"Akala mo hindi ko alam?!" my tears fell more when my Mom broke down. "A-ano bang
ginawa ko para ganituhin niyo akong magkapatid?!"

My father immediately held my crying mother, her cold façade faded and was replaced
with a sorrowful one. "Hindi pa ba sapat ang pahirap sa akin noon?!"

"Zidney..." my father called and calmed her down. "calm down."

"S-sorry..." Ate Clyte sobbed and I remained looking at them with my palm still on my
cheek she slapped.

My mother...my mother slapped me. She slapped me.

My sister is crying, halos mapaupo na siya sa lapag habang tulala lang ako at patuloy
na nahuhulog ang luha sa mga pisngi.
I saw my mother's shaking hands, she closed her eyes and tried calming down but
she's panicking and hysterical.

"F-fuck, Zidney!" my father called and carried her towards the couch. "Deion! Come
here!"

"A-aalis ako..." I whispered like a puppet and turned my back.

Nanginginig ang paa ay mabilis akong nagtungo sa kwarto at mabilis na kinuha ang
luggage ko. I took my clothes with me and put it nonchalantly and out of order inside my
bag.

"S-Scira, s-saan ka pupunta?" my eyes landed on the door and saw my sister,
panicking when she saw me.

"Aalis sa pesteng pamamahay na 'to." Mariin at matapang kong sabi at mabilis na

ipinasok ang damit sa loob ng maleta.

"N-no! What are you doing?!" she exclaimed and ran towards me. "s-si Mommy, no...no,
don't do this."

"P-pagod na pagod na ako, Ate..." iyak ko.

She tried stopping me but I won't bulge. She tried removing my clothes yet I'll just push
her away at muling pinapasok ang mga damit ko. Hindi ko na tinapos ang pagkuha ng
gamit at basta na lang binuhat palabas.

"Scira!" she called pero hindi ako nakinig.

Bumaba ako ng hagdan at nakitang nakasandal ang Mommy kay Dad na hawak ang
kamay niya. Kuya Deion is with her too, nakita kong ang pamilyar na babae sa gilid at
karga si Queen Scira na tumahan na.

My eyes landed on my brother and sighed.

He took the bitch back, huh...

"Scira!" Ate Clyte ran after me.

Napalingon silang lahat sa akin. I saw my father tensed up when he saw me,
napalingon din si Mommy at nakita kong mas tumulo ang luha niya ng makita ako.

"Scira?" Kuya Deion called. "where are you going?"

I shrugged, glancing at him coldly and walked out.

"Young lady! Come back here!" my father exclaimed and I closed my eyes to stop
myself from looking back.

Sumunod ang Ate sa akin, kasunod niya si Kuya pero mabilis akong nakapasok sa
sasakyan ko.

"Scira!" Kuya Deion knocked on my window, umiiyak ang Ate pero wala na akong
maramdamang kahit ano.
I turned the engine on and drove away with tears on my cheek.

Hilam ang mga luha sa mata ay nagmaneho ako, walang patutunguhan. When I got
away, naramdaman ko ang paninikip ng dibdib ko, nanginig ako at mas napaluha.

My hand started shaking, nanlabo ang mata ko, napapikit sa biglang pagkahilo nang
marinig ang malakas na busina.

I jumped, gasped and immediately saw the car approaching my direction. I quickly
steered the wheel and avoided the car.

My heart's racing, tumigil ang sasakyan ko sa gilid at nanghihinang napasandal ako

roon.

"Kung magpapakamatay ka, h'wag ka mandamay ng tao! Gago!" sigaw mula sa labas
hanggang sa maiwan akong mag-isa sa gilid ng daan.

I closed my eyes, rested my head on the steering wheel and cried harder. Paulit-ulit
kong hinampas ang manibela at sumigaw.

My shoulders kept on moving up and down, halos mawalan na ako ng hininga kaya
nagmamadali kong binuksan ang pintuan ng sasakyan.

Kipkip ang phone ay mabilis akong naglakad palabas at nakita ang palaruang walang
tao sa tabi ng daan kung nasaan ang sasakyan ko.

I walked towards there and found myself sitting on an empty bench. Nanginginig pa rin
ang kamay ko kaya napatitig ako roon ng wala sa sarili.
He...he can't do that to me. He won't.

With my shaking hands, I lifted my hand and dialed Warren's number. Inilapit ko iyon sa
tainga, nag-antay na sagutin pero unattended.

My tears fell more, walang tigil kong tinawagan ang numero niya.

"P-please...please, answer me." I whispered but still none.

For hours, I waited like a puppy, I sent him countless messages yet I received no
response.

"T-Tin, s-sunduin mo naman ako, oh." I whispered while composing the voice message.
"p-please...please, p-pagod na ako."

I received countless messages and calls from my family and cousins pero ni isa ay wala
akong sinagot. Parang tanga at nawawalang tuta akong nakaupo sa bench, nag-aantay
na may susunod pero walang dumating.

I am starting to lose hope, nawala na rin ang mga dumaraang sasakyan sa daan. Tulala
lang ako at tahimik na pinaglalaruan ang daliri ko.

My phone rang, my eyes settled back on my phone and my heart raced when I saw who
was it.

Kumareng Tintin calling...

With shaking hands, I quickly answered it and placed it on my ear.

"W-Warren?" I said with my shaking voice. "good thing you called!"

I heard his deep breaths.

"S-sunduin mo n-naman ako, oh." I bit my lip. "P-please, w-wala na akong

mapupuntahan."

Hindi siya umimik kaya mas nahulog ang luha sa mga mata ko.

"S-sagutin mo naman ako. Please. S-sunduin mo ako." Lumingon ako sa paligid at

napansin ang langit na walang mga bituin, malungkot at madilim. "N-natatakot ako..."

"Go home," he said and my body started shaking when I heard his cold voice.

"T-Tin?"

"Umuwi ka na lang." I heard his deep voice.

"L-lumayas ako," I confessed. "I-I don't know if I could come back, d'yan na lang ako—"

"I don't want to see you again," he whispered and my breath hitched. "you probably
know what I did now, right?"

"N-no..." nanlabo ang mga mata ko at mas nanginig. "m-mali lang sila, h-hindi ako
naniwala sa kanila, Augustine! You...can't do that, right? You promised!"
"That's why I fucking hate promises..." he whispered and my sobs left my lips.

"T-Tin, y-you're joking, right? Y-you promised me you'd never lie, you won't do that—"

"Turns out, I'm like them too, Scira." He whispered and I froze. "I fucking broke promises
too."

"N-no...you won't. You...you won't lie to me, right?" I whispered, catching my breath.

"I-I'm sorry..." he whispered and the next thing I heard is the dial tone.

Natulala ako at suminghap. I glanced blankly at my phone and saw the time.

11:58 PM

August 1

Naramdaman ko ang basa sa braso ko at nang mag-angat ako ng tingin ay mas nabasa
ang mukha ko sa ambon mula sa malungkot at madilim na langit.

"B-bobo..." I whispered and stared at my phone, "ang tali-talino mo pero bobo ka sa

tang inang pag-ibig, Valderama."

My cousin's name flashed on the screen and shaking, I did my best to finally answer
her.
"D-Daru..." I called weakly.

"Scira! Finally!" she exclaimed then suddenly, I heard her sobbing a bit.

"W-what?" I whispered.

"U-uwi ka na..." she said and sobbed harder.

"W-what? I-I can't, g-galit sa akin ang Mommy..." I said weakly, patuloy na nahuhulog
ang luha.

"Please..." she muttered softly, "u-uwi ka, please. Uwi ka na."

"B-bakit?" I muttered, mas lumakas ang ambon at maya-maya'y naramdaman ko na

ang mabigat na patak nito sa braso ko.

"S-si..." she muttered and I felt my heart suddenly throbbing in nervousness at that.

"B-bakit?" bulong ko at napatayo na. "a-anong mayroon?"

"W-wala na..." she sobbed harder. "P-papa Jer's gone, Scira. W-wala na si Papa Jer..."

I felt numb, tila nanigas ako sa kinauupuan at nawalan ng lakas. Bumagsak ang phone
na hawak ko at napasinghap.

The rain fell down on me, I covered my mouth as muffled cries escaped my lips.
Nanghina ang tuhod ko at napaluhod sa lupa.
My shoulders started shaking, covering my mouth, I cried like a kid as the cold, sad
drops of the rain drenched on me.

I knelt and bit my lip and didn't expect that in this day, first day of August, I will lose my
grandfather together with the love I thought to be the right one for me. Drenching in rain,
I lowered my head and slowly realized that Augustine lied to me...again.

Kabanata 18

"Here, warm yourself." A soft voice from a woman made me come back from my
reverie.

I opened my eyes and saw the woman's soft eyes.

"N-no..." I whispered, muling inabot sa kanya ang jacket pero umiling siya at ibinalik sa
akin.

"No, take it. Magkakasakit ka." She said eagerly.

Tatangi sana ako pero nasalubong ko ang mata ni Kuya sa salamin.

"Take it, Scira Rosalie." He said coldly and shaking, I quietly took it and covered my wet
body.

Tahimik ako buong byahe patungo sa ospital, I am staring blankly at the dark road with
tears mindlessly falling on my cheek.
Tahimik ang byahe at tanging malakas na patak lang ng ulan ang narinig ko. Dire-
diretso ang byahe nang biglang gumewang ang sasakyan.

"Deion!" the woman beside me screamed.

I jumped on my seat, mabilis na gumilid ang sasakyan at nagpapanic na napalingon ako

sa driver's seat at nanghina nang makitang nakasubsob ang Kuya sa manibela.

He was gripping it tightly, umawang ang labi ko para magtanong nang biglang manginig
ang balikat niya, kasunod ng mahinang hikbi niya.

"K-kuya..." my voice quivered.

"Deion," the woman beside me called, nagulat ako nang mabilis siyang lumabas ng
sasakyan at lumipat sa shotgun.

Mas nanghina ako nang kalasin niya ang seatbelt ng Kuya at marahan itong niyakap. I
covered my mouth when I heard my brother's sob became a bit louder. Gumalaw ang
balikat ko sa mga hikbi at kagaya niya ay mas napaiyak na.

Nawawala na kami sa sarili, mabuti na lang at may kasama kami na nagpresintang

magmamaneho para sa amin.

We were both disoriented when we got into the hospital, tanging ang babaeng kasama
lang naming ang matino at nagturo sa amin ng daan.
Malayo palang ay nanghina na ako nang madatnan ang mga pinsan sa pasilyo, they
were crying, tulala pa ang iba at nang makitang naghehisterikal ang Mommy at pilit na
kinakalma ng Daddy ay nanghina ang tuhod ko.

Napasalampak ako sa sahig at napahagulgol.

"N-no..." I sobbed loudly. "P-papa..."

"S-Scira, come on, p-princess..." lumuhod si Kuya sa harapan ko at hinawakan ang

pisngi ko.

"A-are they j-joking, Kuya?" I said in a soft voice.

I looked into his dark eyes, waiting for him to say it isn't true but I got none, instead, I
saw how another bunch of tears escaped his eyes.

"K-kuya..." hagulgol ko at mabilis siyang niyakap.

Nakasalampak sa lapag at nakaluhod si Kuya habang magkayakap kami. I keep on

sobbing on his shoulder, nang makitang palapit ang Ate Clyte ay lumuhod din siya para
yakapin kami.

It took me a while to calm down, my brother helped me up and with shaking knees, I
walked towards their place.

I saw Darshana and Zire crying on the side, nang makita nila ako ay mabilis silang
yumakap sa akin at tahimik na umiyak.
They said, Papa Jer died in natural causes, they slept but then...Papa didn't woke up
when Mama Lena tried to wake him up.

Pagod na pagod ako, tulala lang habang tabi ang mga pinsan ko. I glanced at the side
and my heart broke when I saw my Mama Lena sitting on the bench, she's smiling,
trying to lift the mood of her children yet there are tears on her eyes falling down her
cheek.

Katabi niya si Mommy, nasa kanyang harapan ang mga Tito ko na tahimik ding umiiyak.

They were grown ups but the siblings looked like lost children now, they were crying
silently with Mama Lena. My Mom is hugging her while sobbing. Maging ang Tito Iñigo
na palaging composed ay tulala at umiiyak. Si Tito Dash ay nakasubsob sa may gilid ni
Mama Lena at si Tito Zeij ay nakaupo sa lapag at ibinabaon ang ulo sa kanyang hita at
tahimik na humihikbi.

I saw my Aunties on the corner, silently crying. Ang mga pinsan ko ay hindi rin
nagsasalita at tulala lang. My father is carrying Queen Scira, my younger sibling is
sleeping on his shoulder now.

I looked around and sighed, minsan lang kami mabuo ng ganito pero...hindi ko naisip na
sa ganitong pagkakataon pa.

"I'll get you home for now, princess..." nanlambot ako nang lapitan ako ng Daddy, my
heart fell and I immediately sniffed.

"S-sorry, Dad..." I said softly and he sighed.

"Come here, hug your old man." He said softly and I immediately rose and hugged him.
He has to take Queen Scira home, nagpresinta ang Kuya na babantayan ang Mommy
at ang Ate Clyte kaya nagpaalam ako sa kanila.

"I-I'll rest first, p-papalit lang din ng damit baka magkasakit." Mahinang sabi ko sa mga
pinsan.

"S-sama ako," Daru suddenly held my hand kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya, nagtataka.

I saw her sad eyes as she shook her head.

"I-I want some company a-and Dad's mad at me, a-ayaw ko muna umuwi." She
muttered.

I nodded, hinawakan ko ang kamay niya at nakita ang Dad na nagpapaalam kay
Mommy. Lumapit ako at nakita kong natigilan siya ng makita ako.

"We'll go, queen. Babalik ako." Dad kissed my Mom's forehead but her eyes are on me.

Parang may pumilipit sa tiyan ko, nangilid ang luha ko nang makita ang mata ng
Mommy ko.

"M-mom—"

She suddenly lowered her head, "b-balik ka, ah?" biglang sabi niya kay Dad.

"I will," he said. Dad glanced at me, he looked at me sadly and mouthed it's okay.
"M-mama..." baling ko na lang kay Mama Lena na kaagad na ngumiti sa akin.

"Hello, princess..." she said softly, namumula pa ang mata pero may ngiti ang labi.

Napalunok ako, hindi na nakapagsalita at mabilis siyang niyakap.

Isa iyon sa mga dagok sa aming pamilya.

Sa lamay ni Papa Jer ay naging abala ang lahat, it was a very intimate one, kami lang
na pamilya at iilang mga malalapit na kaibigan.

Malungkot man at pagod ay kailangan naming sumubok na lagpasan ang pagkawala ng

isa sa importanteng parte ng aming pamilya. Papa Jer taught us a lot of things, he's a
great Lolo to us, he molded his children, our parents to become the good person they
are now.

He taught us to be the better version of ourselves, he taught us that love comes in the
right time, when you are ready. Aniya noon sa amin na ang pag-ibig, hindi pinipilit.

Love, will always find a way if it's meant for you.

My Mom is preoccupied and disoriented, sumubok akong humingi ng tawad sa kanya,

sumubok na kausapin pero alam kong may dinaramdam pa siya ngayon. I know I did
something wrong, I know I stepped out of the line, I know wala akong karapatang
sigawan siya pagkatapos ng lahat ng paghihirap niyang pagpapalaki sa amin at handa
akong magpakumbaba at humingi ng tawad.

My Dad and Kuya stayed strong for our family, they both became neutral. Naging haligi
namin sila habang malungkot kami at nagluluksa.
Dad knows my Mom wouldn't want to talk to me and Ate Clyte and he respected it as a
husband but as a father, he made sure we understand Mom's situation and we did. He
didn't turn blind eye to us, he remained a good and understanding father, siya at ang
Kuya ang gumabay sa amin ng Ate habang malungkot.

May mga oras na malungkot at umiiyak akong mag-isa, naghahalo sa utak ko ang
ginawa ni Warren at ang pagkawala ng Papa Jer but I have to stay strong, not just for
myself but for my family.

Mahirap tanggapin pero kailangan. That's how life is, whatever comes fades away at
some point in time. Walang permanente, may mga taong darating pero aalis din at may
mga maiiwan.

But well, that's life. As much as we wanted Papa Jer to stay with us, we can't. Fate
decided it'll be just like that and as a person, we have to understand that in the end,
kahit anong yaman at kasikatan na mayroon ka, sa huli ay magiging abo ka na lang
kung saan ka nagsimula.

Life and death...that's a process. Sa huli ay kukunin din tayo that's why, life matters.
Enjoy while you still can dahil hindi mo alam kung hanggang saan lang ang itatagal
niyan.

Wearing our white clothes with white roses in our hands, we have to say goodbye to our
wonderful and amazing Ejercito Sandejas.

"Thank you, Dad." My eyes got fixed on Tito Iñigo's blue ones as he stepped on the
platform to speak. "Thank you for being a great father to us, thank you for the lessons,
for the love you showed us, your kids, thank you for being a great father and a great
grandfather to your grandkids."
"Salamat kasi...kasi hinulma mo kami kung ano kami ngayon, together with Mom,
maraming salamat dahil minahal mo ako. I know there are times, I know I am not a
good son yet you accepted me and I thank you, Dad. Mahal na mahal kita." His tears
fell. "I promise to be a good father to my children, I promise to be a good husband to
Thallia and I promise to always look after my siblings and the queen of our home,
Mommy Lena."

My uncle was crying when he left the platform, sumunod si Tito Dash na huminga pa ng
malalim bago nagsalita.

"I actually don't know what to say," he said quietly. "it's a shock for all of us, alam kong
mangyayari rin ito pero hindi ko naisip na sa panahong ito."

He sighed, I saw how tears fell on his cheek. "My Dad is a great one, alam kong hindi
ako naging mabuting anak. There is a time I rebelled yet my Dad understood me, he
loved me, us, dearly, kahit may mga mali kami. He was a good father, he will always be.
Dahil sa kanya, sa kanila ni Mommy, natutunan kong magpakumbaba at makinig."

His voice shook, "m-marami akong gustong sabihin pero hindi ko masabi, it was as if
my tongue got tied, hanggang ngayon hindi ko pa rin lubos maisip na wala na ang
Daddy but...I know I need to be strong for my family, I need to be strong for my kids, for
my wife, for my siblings and my Mom. M-mahal na mahal kita, Dad. You will always be
the person I'll forever look up to."

I watched my mother walked towards the platform, her eyes are swollen, she's pale and
disoriented, hawak pa siya ng Daddy at ni Tito Iñigo papaakyat sa platform.

"Queen, it's okay if you won't talk, I know Dad would understand." My father said.

"N-no..." she muttered.

"Princess," Tito called softly. "it's okay..."

"N-no, I wanna talk." My mother said and closed her eyes before gasping for air.

Daru held my hand, sumulyap ako sa kanya at ngumiti bago marahang sumandal.

"It's okay, Scira. We'll get through this." She whispered.

Mom cleared her throat, nanatiling nakatayo sa kanyang likuran ang Daddy at si Tito at
nakita kong lumunok si Mommy bago nagsalita.

"I-I'm sorry if I am emotional," she said softly, her eyes are blood shot. "I just...I can't
believe there will be a point in time where I have to say goodbye to my love one."

She bit her lip then composed herself to calm down.

"I-I am not a perfect person, I also shared a lot of faults and imperfections. Taliwas sa
sinasabi ng ibang tao, I am not perfect, tao lang ako. May mali, nahihirapan, may
problema and Dad..." she muttered. "Dad taught me na walang perpekto, na ang tao
nagkakamali rin."

My heart melted, mas naluha ako sa naririnig at suminghap.

You're such a bitch, Scira Rosalie, how dare you raise your voice at your Mom like
that...

"My Dad is a wonderful man," she said. "he's a great father, a husband to my Mom and
a grandfather. He spoils his grandchildren so much, he understands and loves his
children dearly and he took care of our queen, Mommy Lena when I was lost in the
past."

I suddenly remembered how she got lost in the past, she cried, I saw how my Mom
broke down yet managed to speak.

"I-I love you, Dad, forever and always. You are one of the reasons why I fought so hard
to live, you are one of the reasons why I overcome my demons. I promise to love this
family so much and I...I'll always be Daddy Jer's little princess."

My Mom went down on the platform, she was shaking and my heart felt heavy while
watching her so I stood. Sinalubong ko ang Mommy at nakita ko kung paano mas
bumuhos ang kanyang luha ng makita ako.

"M-mommy..." I called her softly, like I am still her little princess.

"S-Scira..." she called and suddenly cried and hugged me.

I hugged my mother tightly while she's sobbing, lumapit sa amin ang Ate Clyte na
umiiyak din at yumakap.

It was an emotional and sad day for us, pinagmasdan ko ang Tito Zeijan na diretsong
naglakad doon sa gitna. He has no emotion, seryoso ang mga mata pero halatang
umiyak dahil sa pamumula nito.

The always smiling and jolly Sandejas isn't what he normally is today. He flashed a
small smile, cleared his throat and took a deep breath.
"S-sabi mo, baka ampon ako." He suddenly muttered and despite the tears, I saw how
my family smiled at that.

"I remembered you teasing me always, kayo lahat kasi pinahirapan ko si Mommy dati."
He said. "Naalala ko noong naghaharutan kayo ni Mommy, sabi ko get a room."

That made us laugh, I heard my Mom chuckled a bit despite her tears. Miski ang
Mommy Lena ay nakangiti at nakatitig kay Tito Zeij sa gitna.

Napalunok ako, hinawakan ni Ate ang kamay ko habang yakap ko ang Mommy ko.
Beside her is Dad and Kuya, tahimik na nakatingin lang si Queen at nag-oobserba.

"Sorry, Dad. Sorry kasi minsan pasaway ako at makulit." Suddenly Tito Zeij sobbed.

"P-palagi naman!" Tito Iñigo exclaimed while stopping his tears.

"Edi kayo na perfect child!" Tito Zeij suddenly whined while crying and we laughed.

"Batang ito talaga," Mama Lena said and chuckled. "mana sa Tatay niya."

"Ganyan talaga, Mameh, lahi-lahi lang 'yan." Tito Zeij smirked while staring at Mama
Lena who's now chuckling.

"Hayaan mo anak, special ka naman. Special child." Mama Lena joked and Tito
frowned.

"Luh, may favoritism sa pamilyang ito talaga!" he whined but then became serious after
the laughter.
"I..." he sighed. "I never expected and thought we'll get to this part of our lives but,
kagaya ng sabi mo noon sa amin, ganyan talaga ang buhay. Isang araw magiging abo
na lang tayo."

Natahimik kami roon at nakita kong nagseryoso si Tito.

"Dati, I always wonder kanino ako nagmana. Sabi ni Mommy Lena sa'yo raw pero para
kay Mommy din." He said and smiled. "I mean, Kuya is a lawyer, Dash-beybe is a pilot,
si Zidney-tot is an Architect."

"S-stop calling me with a tot!" Mommy suddenly exclaimed and we laughed at that.

"You're still the family's princess with a tot, Zid. Anyway, bongga ang mga kapatid ko
tapos ako..." he pouted. "buti na lang talaga, gwapo ako."

"Ejercito, 'yong anak mo, oh!" Mama Lena exclaimed and Tito laughed.

"Joke lang, s'yempre, Zeijan pa ba? Ako kaya pinaka-gwapo sa angkang 'to? Mas pa
kay Daddy—"

"Multuhin mo nga 'to, Dad—" Tito Dash said and Tito Zeij's eyes widen.

"J-joke lang!" he exclaimed and cleared his throat to look around. "J-joke lang, Dad.
Alam ko nand'yan ka lang, i-ikaw na pala pinakagwapo. I mean, gwapo rin naman
talaga ako pero—"

"Lumayas ka na nga d'yan," tumayo si Tito Iñigo para lumapit kaya umiling si Tito.
"Joke lang, ito serious na!" he said and smiled. "ayon, I don't know what to say but
gusto ko lang malaman mo Dad na mahal na mahal kita, if I'd live again, I will wish
you're still my father. Thank you for the lessons and the love. You will always be my role
model."

He lowered his head and sighed. "Teka Dad, parang naiiyak ako," maarte niyang
pinunasan ang hilid ng mata and I smiled at that.

Tito Zeijan would always be the family's sunshine.

"Kahit inaaway mo ako palagi at muntik na ako ma-abort." Reklamo pa niya bigla roon.

The place is suddenly quiet when it's Mama Lena's time to go to the platform to speak.
We were all waiting for her words because I know, we all know that it must have been
really hard for her to lose her husband.

Mama Lena stood in front and I can't help but notice how beautiful she is, she aged like
fine wine, habang tumatagal ay mas gumaganda siya.

"Ganda ko, ano?" I didn't expect her first words, biglang napatawa ako at ang buong
pamilya sa kanya.

"Mameh, wala na, finish na. Baba na r'yan." Nagtaas ng kamay si Tito Zeij pero
matamis na ngumiti ang Mama Lena at umiling.

"Ganyan talaga kapag alagang Sandejas," she said and I chuckled because it's true.
"Well, how would I start this?" she said and sighed, nakita kong sumulyap siya sa coffin
ni Papa Jer at biglang ngumiti. "Hon, look at your children and their families, they're
amazing, right?"

Something touched my heart, I saw Mama Lena's eyes and it's almost filled with tears
but she managed to smile and looked at the crowd.

"Matagal na naming napag-uusapan ito ni Jer. One way or another, one of us will leave
this world. We're not getting any younger, malalaki na ang mga anak at ang mga apo
ko. We can't live forever dahil tao lang din kami, tayo, mawawala rin sa mundo." She
muttered.

"Crazy but we talked about what we'll do if one of us decided to leave at nagkasundo
kami na we should go on in our lives, mourn at first but slowly move on. Malungkot man
na wala na ang mahal ko but we must learn to live with it because nothing's permanent
in this world except love."

She touched her necklace and smiled.

"Jer might not be here physically but he will never be gone, he will always be here in our
hearts. His love will remain permanently, kahit saan, hanggang kailan." She smiled.

"Death is a part of life, my kids. There is a point wherein life stops giving us things and
starts taking them away. Bigay ang buhay kaya dapat pangalagaan dahil darating ang
araw na babawiin din iyon, like now. Daddy Jer is a gift for us and when he was taken
away, we were expected to live happily, to treasure the lessons, the love, memories and
our moments with him."

"It's okay to mourn but don't stay mourning for a long time. One day, mawawala rin ako
at susunod sa Daddy Jer niyo, when I'm gone, it's okay to mourn but be happy after. We
had a happy and long life, with you, our kids and family."
My tears fell when Mama Lena, bit her lip to stop her sob.

"I told myself it's okay but maybe it's shocking when it's too sudden. I just didn't expect
he'll be gone that night, huling gabi ko na pala 'yon kasama siya. He said goodnight and
I love you and he didn't woke up after. Sobrang sakit pero kagaya nga ng sabi ko, we
can't stay mourning for our lost ones kaya kahit masakit, pipiliin kong maging masaya
kasi mayroon pa akong kayo."

"You, my children, Iñigo, Dash, Zeij and Zidney, you are God's gift for me and your Dad
and your children and family is a gift for you so please, please cherish them. Love them
dearly so, in the end, you won't have regrets."

Niyakap ako ni Mommy, I saw her held her hand on Ate Clyte and ate sobbed after
taking it.

"Mommy, sama! Hug ako!" my eyes shifted and chuckled when I saw Queen Scira.

"O-oh, my little queen." Mom muttered and took Queen Scira for a hug, I saw her
hugged my Dad and Kuya Deion too.

"Time flies so fast when you are happy, parang dati lang nagka-cutting lang kami ni Jer
para magperya sa Sta. Monica." She chuckled.

"Bad influence si Daddy, oh." Nguso ni Tito Zeij kaya natawa si Mom.

"Sinabi mo pa, parang ikaw 'to noon, Zeij. Bulakbol, tulog palagi sa klase." She said.
My uncles teased Tito Zeij who only covered his ears. "At least gwapo." He spatted.

"To my love, Ejercito, thank you for being the very best friend, companion, boyfriend,
husband and a great father to your children. I promise to live my remaining life happily
with your love inside my heart. You will never be forgotten, you will always be my one
and greatest love."

She covered her mouth to stop her sobs and we became more emotional seeing her
like that.

"To Ejercito Sandejas, my love." She touched her necklace again. "Fly high, my paper
plane. I will be there soon."

We sent Papa Jer off with the white balloons, inayos ang museleo para kay Papa at
tahimik kaming naglagay ng mga bulaklak at nagsindi ng kandila sa tapat ng kanyang
lapida.

Our families are emotional, we still couldn't believe this happened, hindi ko rin kinaya
kaya matapos kong magbigay ng bulaklak ay lumabas ako ng museleo para makakuha
ng sariwang hangin.

I rested on the bench near the mausoleum. I was calmed at first but find myself crying in
mixed emotions I've been feeling right now.

Pagkatapos nito, paano na ako? Sabi ni Mama Lena, kapag may nawala, malungkot
pero magpatuloy sa buhay at maging masaya.

After this, will I move on? Can I love again?

I covered my face and sobbed loudly, I did not care what would people think seeing me
like this but I let all the emotions hiding inside my heart out at this moment.

Bakit ganoon? Our parents got their own happy endings, my Papa and Mama Lena got
theirs too pero bakit pagdating sa mga apo, wala na? Pagdating sa amin, tanga na kami
sa pag-ibig.

"Here..." a soothing, manly voice filled my ear, bahagyang ibinukas ko ang mata at
nakitang sa likuran ko ay may naglalahad ng panyo.

My eyes settled at the man's hand, kita ko ang iilang ugat doon at para hindi mapahiya
ay kinuha ko iyon.

"S-salamat..." I whispered and cried again.

For a few moments, I cried, hindi nililingon ang lalaki ay suminghap ako roon at
humagulgol.

"Scira? Scira, come on..." I opened my eyes and saw Zire's blue ones.

"Z-Zire," I called.

"Tara na, paalam na tayo kay Papa Jer." She said and offered her hand.

"S-sandali," I said. "uh, Kuya, salamat..." my smile froze when I saw no one's behind
me.

"Sino kausap mo?" Zire asked and I blinked, inikot ang paningin at suminghap.
"Kanina may...nevermind." I said, kunot ang noo, sumama ako kay Zire at bumalik sa
museleo para magpaalam kay Papa Jer.

My Papa Jer is one of the sweetest, when his and Mama Lena's anniversary came,
three months after his death, he had a surprise for her, kahit na wala na siya.

On the day of their anniversary and the next weeks after that, he scheduled emails for
her to read. Turns out my Mom and Uncles helped Dad set this up when he's still alive.

Sabi niya, kung sakaling mawawala man siya ay gusto niyang malaman pa rin ni Mama
Lena na mahal na mahal niya ito. My Mama Lena is crying that time in happiness,
naghanda kami sa ancestral house namin para sa kanilang anniversary.

I smiled while looking at the large family picture in the middle, at the other part of the
house. Sa isang frame ay sina Papa Jer noong bata pa kasama si Mama at sina Tito at
Mommy. Sa isang frame naman ay ang aming buong pamilya, kompleto kaming
magpipinsan doon kasama ang mga magulang at sina Mama Lena.

We made sure Mama Lena would never feel alone kahit wala na si Papa. If we're free,
we are staying in her house to hang out and have some overnights, madalas din niyang
kasama ang Mommy sa flower shop para maglibang.

Nilibang ko rin ang sarili ko and even if it's hard, I did my best not to get stuck in a
heartbreak and move on. Depende lang naman sa tao 'yan, it's your choice kung
magmumukmok ka sa sakit o babangon ka.

What happens to you is often what you choose to do. Kung malulugmok ka lang,
walang mangyayari at lulubog ka but when you choose to stand and live your life the
way you used to? Aangat ka at makakabangon.
Pakialam ko ba sa kanila? They might have hurt me but that does not mean I'll get stuck
in it forever so I moved on and stops mourning and I found myself again.

A year after Papa Jer's death, Mama Lena followed him and like him, she just didn't
woke up one morning.

Mahirap man but we promised Mama we'll stay strong and we will be always happy.

Life has ways how to shake your fate but it's up to you if you'll be shaken and get weak
or be strong enough to go with it.

Marami pang problemang hinarap ang aming pamilya sa mga nakalipas na taon,
nakakapanghina pero kailangan naming maging malakas para sa isa't-isa. Sino ba
namang magdadamayan? Kami-kami lang kaya hindi kami sumusuko sa pagsubok ng
buhay.

Wearing my turtleneck black long sleeves top and white Mango Palazzo pants, I feel
confident and beautiful.

Ngumiti pa ako pero halos mapatalon nang marinig ang sunod-sunod na busina sa likod
ng sasakyan ko. I glanced at it, galit na galit ang mga nakapila pero ngumuso lang ako
at hinayaan sila.

Inayos ko ang salamin sa harapan ko para mas maayos na mailagay ang lipstick ko, I
want it dark red for it to look bolder.

I fixed my straight hair and put it behind my ear, sinuot ko ang sunglasses ko bago
lumabas ng sasakyan.
Ang valet ay kaagad nang nag-aantay sa akin. Inilagay ko ang hand bag sa braso ko at
nasa daliri ang remote at susi ng sasakyan.

The valet come near me, nakangiti siya kaagad pero bago pa man siya makalapit ay
may matangkad na lalaking nakatungo ang pasimple siyang tinulak palayo.

The man got out of balance and my forehead creased.

"Anong..." the man who fell hissed.

The tall man lowered his face more, naka-mask kaya hindi ko makita ang mukha. May
suot din siyang cap.

"Ako na, Ma'am." Ani ng lalaki sa napakaliit na boses, pumiyok pa siya kaya kumunot
ang noo ko.

"Excuse me?" malamig kong sabi, ibinaba pa ang sunglasses at sumulyap sa kanya.

"A-ako na po mag-park ng sasakyan, Ma'am." He said, lowering his head so I couldn't

take a glance at his face.

I don't want to be judgmental but he sounded like naipit na cockroach.

"Oh, alright." I said, confused man but I handed him my keys.

He lowered his head again and stepped aside, sumubok pa akong sumulyap sa face
niya but it's been thoroughly hidden kaya hindi ko na pinansin.

Weird.

I entered the office with my tilted chin, tumutunog ang heels ko pagpasok at nakita ko
kung paano matigilan ang mga empleyado sa opisina sa entrada ko.

As expected, they were quiet because I'm already here.

Mas malakas pa siguro ang tunog ng heels ko papasok kaysa sa paparating na kuliglig
dahil sa katahimikan nila.

"G-good morning, Architect!" one of the employee had the guts to greet me, mukhang
bago at binata pa.

Of course, I did not disappoint.

I flashed a very small smile and lowered my glasses to see him.

"New?" I asked and he nodded and smiled at me.

"Yes, Architect! I promise to do my best and be an efficient Engineer!" he said with

determination and my brow raised.

I glanced at him and smirked, "will you resign if another company wants to hire you?"
"Hindi po, Architect!" sagot niya at my lips protruded.

Natawa ako bigla at nakita kong mas naging tensiyonado ang lugar. The man stopped
too, tumikhim din ako at tumaas ang sulok ng labi.

"Let's see," sa halip ay sagot ko bago naglakad patungo sa elevator para sa akin.

They were quiet as I walked towards them, halos hindi na nga ata humihinga kaya
sumulyap ako.

"Breathe, malayo ang ospital dito." I said at kita ko ang sabay-sabay nilang paghugot ng
hininga.

Dumiretso ako sa elevator, nadaanan ko pa ang iilang investor na bumati.

"Good morning, Architect."

"Good morning, excuse me, work." I said, flashed a small, rehearsed smile and entered
the elevator.

I even heard one of the investor's daughter bad mouthing me, hindi niya alam ay narinig
ko pero hindi ako mapagpatol na tao kaya hinayaan ko na lang. Bakit ako bababa para
lang sa kanya kung nasa itaas na ako?

May pumasok sa elevator, nagitla pa ako nang pindutin nito ang button sa floor ko.

"Excuse me?" I asked, my brow raising.

I saw the familiar man in a valet uniform.

"Aren't you the valet—"

"E-elevator boy din minsan, Ma'am." Boses ipis niyang sabi kaya napakurap ako.

Maybe that's a natural voice. Come on, Scira. Don't be too judgmental!

"Huh? Pwede ba 'yon? I mean, we hired different people for valet and—"

"S-sideline ba, Ma'am." He cut me off and I found myself nodding.

Hinayaan ko na siya sa buhay niya, napasulyap ako sa nails kong bagong manicure at
biglang naalala ang sinabi noong Agatha kanina bago ako pumasok sa elevator.

"Bitch, huh?" I suddenly muttered to myself. "Ako, bitch?!"

The man jumped nang lumakas ang boses ko. Napapalingon siya sa pwesto ko.

"Kuya, sa tingin mo, bitch ako?" I asked and he lowered his head, hesitant at first but
immediately shook his head.

"H-hindi, Ma'am." Maliit na boses niyang sabi. "M-mukha ka namang mabait, sweet ba,
Ma'am."
Humaba ang nguso ko, napangiti ako roon.

"I know right?" I said and smiled. "Ako, bitch? Sa ganda kong 'to?"

"O-oo nga, Ma'am. Sa ganda mong 'yan." He nodded immediately while hearing me.
Tumunog ang elevator at bumukas sa may office ko kaya tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko
bago humarap kay Kuya.

"Tama nga, apir nga tayo r'yan, Kuya!" I cheered, inilahad ang kamay ko at nakita kong
nanginig pa siya noong una.

I couldn't see his face but he lifted his hand and gave me a high-five.

"A-apir, Ma'am." He said and I smiled.

"Good day, work hard." I said and stepped out of the elevator.

The moment I stepped out, the work station near my office became quiet. Lumipad pa
ang ilang papel sa gulat nila. May nanginig pa ang kamay at napaso ng kape at
napaubo kaya mas humaba ang nguso ko.

Nah, maybe I am really is a bitch. Scira Rosalie, anak ka nga ni Zidney Valderama.

Kabanata 19

"Oh, kumain ka na." Kuya Deion then put the foods he bought for me in the table.
"Later na, Kuya." Marahang sabi ko. "I'm still working t'saka I'm still full and I'm on diet—
"

"Eat now, young miss." He said timidly and I pouted.

"Kuya?" I whined but he just shook his head at me, fixed his glasses and sighed.

"Eat, Scira Rosalie. You skipped dinner last night." He said.

Aayaw na sana ako but then I saw his serious eyes. Kuhang-kuha niya ang mukha ni
Daddy kapag seryoso kaya sa huli ay napatango na lang ako dahil siguradong scolded
ako kung sakali.

"Okay," I muttered, surrendering.

Binuksan niya sa harapan ko ang mga lunch box at nangiti nang makitang may pa-
dessert pa ang Kuya.

"Bongga, ah?" pansin ko.

"Mom cooked," he chuckled. "she asked me to prepare you some too."

That made me smile pagkatapos ay tumango. I smelled the foods and it smells
appetizing to me.

"Maiwan na kita, I have duty today." He said and I smiled.

"Ingat, Kuya." I said softly.

"Take care," he said and kissed my forehead before waving goodbye.

I feel so full when I'm done eating the foods prepared for me, na-realized ko kung gaano
ako kagutom dahil wala akong kain halos kahapon.

I just finished an international project yesterday kaya pagod na pagod ako. Now, medyo
maluwag ang schedule dahil paper works lang.

After this, medyo matagal pa ang proyekto ko at paper works lang ang kakaharapin. It's
kinda boring, ano kayang p'wedeng gawin?

In my work, I always look forward to field work than the office ones. Mas gusto ko roon
dahil nagagamit ko ang skills ko, unlike here na puro pirma lang.

The knock on my door stopped me from checking my documents, nag-angat ako ng

tingin at nakita si Joseph, ang secretary ko.

"Hello, Architect, good afternoon, may bisita po kayo."

My forehead creased.

"Who?"

"Si Ma'am Daru po," aniya at napatango ako at ngumiti.

"Alright, let her in." I said and he nodded.

Inayos ko muna ang mga papel sa table ko at nang pumasok si Daru ay kaagad akong
napangiti.

"Tita!" the kids cheered, I chuckled when they ran towards me, tumayo ako para
salubungin sila at napabungisngis nang yumakap sila sa baywang ko.

"Tita, kiss!" the cute kid exclaimed.

"Oh, hello, my babies!" I chuckled, lowering my body to kiss the kids.

The cute girl looked so bubbly, the boys are smiling, tahimik ang isa habang malaki ang
ngiti ng isa kaya lumilitaw ang dimples niya.

"Aww, my quiet baby. Kiss mo si Tita!" the cute kid shyly walked towards me and I
offered my cheek which he shyly kiss.

"Tita, we have pasalubong po!" my niece showed me a small plastic and I chuckled
when I saw it was my favorite milk tea.

"You bought this for Tita?" I smiled at her.

"Yes po!" she cheered.

"Alright, sige, open the television. You can watch your favorite cartoon while here." I
said and cheerfully, the kids walked towards my couch.

I glanced at Daru and she's smiling at me.

"Pasensya na, Scira. I have a flight two hours from now kaya wala akong maiwanan ng
mga bata. Mom and Dad's still out of the country with Audette."

Lumapit ako, I kissed her cheek at naupo kami sa kabilang sofa.

"Where's their Dad?" I asked.

"Kuya's you know..." he shrugged. "ayaw paiwan sa maid ang mga bata at baka
magsiiyakan."

"Oh, nasaan ba ang asawa niya?" I asked and raised my brow.

"You know, she's..." she frowned at me and I laughed at her.

"Wala na naman?" I asked.

"Lulubog lilitaw naman 'yong babaeng 'yon, ewan sa kanya. Nagtataka rin ako bakit
pinakasalan ni Kuya." She muttered and I sighed.

"At least they have cute kids," I said and she laughed.

"Sa bagay," she chuckled.

She glanced at her watch and sighed, nakauniporme na siya pagkarating kaya
siguradong aalis din kaagad.

"Can you take care of the kids for me muna, Scira? Please? Isa lang ang flight ko. By
tomorrow, madaling-araw, nandito na ako ulit." She said.

"Oh, sure. I love having the kids here, hindi tahimik ang opisina ko." I said and smiled.

Her eyes soften, she sighed and touched her short hair.

"Babawi ako, bakla, promise!" she exclaimed and I laughed.

"No worries, akong bahala. Sige, baka ma-late ka." I said and she grinned.

"You're the best! Thank you!" she cheered, hugged me and kissed my cheek.

"Welcome!" I said and glanced at the kids. "Kids, say bye na to Mama Daru."

They all glanced at her, lumapit si Daru at hinalikan ang mga bata bago nagpaalam
umalis.

I chuckled while watching them watch TV, habang pumipirma ako ay nagkakatuwaan
ang mga bata at nanunuod na ng youtube.

"Johny, Johny..." my niece sang.

"Yes Papa?" my nephew sang too.

Nangisi ako nang pilitin nila ang suplado kong pamangkin na makisabay.

"No," he answered.

"Huh? Sabay ka, sing tayo!" my niece exclaimed.

"Ayaw," he said, pouting and put his hand on his chest. Kuhang-kuha niya ang mata ni
Kuya Macky kaya napatawa na ako.

"Come on, baby, join them." I said and they all glanced at me.

"Join ka po, Tita Ganda!" my niece exclaimed and I closed my folder before walking
towards them.

"Alright, let's sing, kids! Johny, Johny?" I sang happily.

"Yes, Papa!" the kids cheered.

"Eating sugar?" I sang and I saw my nephew smiled.

"No Papa!" he cheered too.

"Telling lies? No Papa!" tumabi ako sa mga bata at nakikanta. Tumakbo sa akin ang
pamangkin ko kaya natatawang sinalo ko ito.
"Open your mouth. Ha ha ha!" we all exclaimed cheerfully.

"Wow! Clap tayo! Ganda voice ni Tita!" my niece exclaimed and I giggled when they all
clapped their hands at me.

"Magaling ba kumanta si Tita?" I asked the kids and they smiled at me.

"Yes!" they cheered and I grinned.

"Sino ang pinakamagandang Tita sa balat ng lupa?" inuto ko ang mga pamangkin.

"Tita Scira!" they exclaimed and that boost my confidence more.

"Yehey! Sinong gusto pumunta sa Toy Kingdom?!" I exclaimed and laughed when the
kids raised their hands.

"Us po!"

"Okay! Anong sasabihin niyo kay Tita?" I asked softly.

"Thank you po! You're the best, Tita Ganda!" they cheered happily.

The night with the kids is enjoyable yet tiring, lumabas ako kasama ang mga bata para
kumain sa mall at ipag-shopping sila sa toy store.
"Tita, why po ayaw niyo pa po magka-baby?" my niece asked me while I am brushing
her hair. Tulog na ang dalawang lalaki sa kabilang kama at katabi ko ang cute kong
pamangkin.

"Hmm, I'm not ready pa, baby." I answered softly.

"Why po? Lahat po sila may kids na, bakit po ikaw?"

"Gusto mo ba?" natawa ako. "if I will have a kid, hindi na ako makakapag-play sa inyo."

"Aww, it's okay po, Tita! Mag-play din me sa baby mo!" she cheered and I chuckled and
kissed her cheek.

"Soon, baby. Just not now." I kissed her cheek. "For now, I'll be the rich Tita so I can
buy my cute kids toys and dolls, you like that?"

"Dolls! Dolls! Yehey!" she cheered.

Dumating si Daru kinabukasan para sunduin ang mga bata, tumawag din si Zirena kaya
naghanda ako ng pagkain sa opisina para sa pagdating niya.

"Matagal pa ang next project mo, 'di ba?" she asked and I nodded.

"Yeah, paper works lang for now. Nasa ibang Architects na ang ibang proyekto so, I am
free." I answered.

"Well, do you want to have one?" she said at kaagad akong naging interesado roon.
"Hmm, about what?" I asked.

"You know Casa Amara, right?" she asked and my forehead creased.

Kaagad na may lumitaw na mukha sa utak ko kaya tumikhim ako at tumaas ang kilay.

"What about it?" I asked.

"Well, we are in need of experienced Architect." She said and I stopped. "Under Casa
Amara is the Lost Island, hindi ko alam kung napuntahan mo."

"No, hindi ako pumunta roon." I answered timidly. "what about that?"

"The project is for the renovation of the island, ayos naman siyya but we thought of
giving it a new look 'cause why not? Isa pa, my husband is a part owner of the island so,
gusto ko sanang ikaw..." she said.

"Wala bang Architect ang Casa?" I asked and she pouted.

"Well, we have the Flores and Miranda—"

"No." Mabilis kong sagot at nakita kong napaawang ang labi niya.

"Huh?" her forehead creased.

"May mga project pa pala ako," I cleared my throat. "isa pa, I am busy with the paper
works, ni-rerenovate rin ang hospital ni Dad kaya—"

"Warren," she suddenly said and I froze.

Napainom ako ng tsaa bigla at sumulyap sa kanya.

"Sino 'yon?" I asked.

Suddenly, she laughed. Mahina lang noong una pero nang makita akong naubos ko na
ang mainit kong tsaa ay napahagalpak siyang lalo.

I frowned when my tongue hurts, napaubo ako at nagkukumahog na tumakbo sa

dispenser para sa tubig.

"Come on, Scira? Warren Miranda?" she chuckled and I frowned.

Tumitig ako sa kanya habang umiinom ng tubig. Nang mahuli kong Malaki ang ngisi
niya ay umirap ako.

"Damn you, Zire." I hissed and she laughed again. Her blue eyes shined and smirked at
me.

"Come on, it's been years, bad trip ka pa rin?" she asked, teasing.

"Sinong sinasabi mo? Wala akong kilalang Warren." I said coldly and went back to my
swivel, kumuha ako ng tissue at pinunasan ang gilid ng labi ko.
"Uh-huh," she teased. "I've been meeting him minsan."

Ngumuso ako at hindi siya pinansin, bumaba ang tingin ko sa papel na hawak at
kunwari'y nagbabasa.

"Alam mo nga palagi ka niyang kina-kumusta sa akin—"

"No, Zire. Sorry, hanap ka na lang ibang Architect. Busy ako." I said timidly.

"Come on, sige na..." she whined. "it's my island too, now. S'yempre, I wanna get
involved. I want your designs and I think your taste can do well—"

"No." I muttered.

"Sige na," she whined but I shook my head.

"No."

"'Di ka pa nakakamove-on, 'no?" she said.

I froze, kaagad akong napaharap sa kanya, tumalim ang tingin.

"Shut it, una sa lahat, wala akong kilalang Warren, pangalawa, bakit ako magmo-move
on kung walang kami?"
"Hmm, but you just said 'di mo siya kilala." She teased and I froze.

Natahimik ako at napatitig sa kanya. Ngumisi siya sa akin.

"Bitter!" she teased and I frowned.

"No!"

"Sige nga, kung 'di ka bitter gogora ka! Kung hindi ka papayag, mahal mo pa rin siya—"

"Of course, I ain't bitter!" I exclaimed at the top of my lungs and she bursted out
laughing.

"Defensive!" she exclaimed and playfully pointed me. "in love pa rin si Madame Scira!"
she sang.

"No way! Sa ganda kong ito mabi-bitter ako? Huh! Lelang niya! Hindi naman siya
gwapo—"

"Weh?" she cut me off and I sighed.

"Okay, fine, gwapo siya pero gago!" I exclaimed and she laughed.

Ngumuso ako habang tuwang-tuwa ang pinsan ko sa pang-aasar sa akin, halos

sabunutan ko na siya pero hindi ko magawa at buntis ang gaga.

"So, hindi ka pa nakakamove-on?"

"Of course, I've moved on!" I hissed. "hindi ko na nga siya iniisip! Huh! Lelang niya, ako
pa ang hindi makamove-on, excuse me, pero ang manliligaw ko aabot na sa NLEX!"

Tawang-tawa ang Zirena, umirap ako ulit at sumandal sa swivel.

"Eh, bakit wala kang jowa? Dami naman pala manliligaw, eh?" she raised her brows.

"Choosy ako." I said.

"Ows? Mag jowa ka na at mag-asawa! Naku, sinasabi ko sa'yo, masarap sa feeling ang
jugjug—"

"Kalandian mo, Zirena, manahimik ka." I hissed and she laughed at me.

"Oo nga, girl! Kaninang umaga, sa banyo kami—"

"Shut it!" I hissed, tinakpan ang tainga ko habang tuwang-tuwa siya sa akin. "Buntis ka,
hoy!"

"Mesherep, eh!" hagikhik niya kaya napatili ako.

"Shut up!"

"Oo na, hindi na." She laughed and slowly, I removed my palms covering my ear.
"Sama ka, kapag hindi ka sumama ibig sabihin mahal mo pa siya—"
"Ayaw ko nga," I hissed.

"Oh, eh 'di mahal mo pa nga—"

"Fine! Fine, sige na!" I hissed and she chirped and raised her hand.

"Yehey!" ngumisi pa siya at hinawakan ang t'yan niya. "heard that baby? Sasama na si
Tita!"

I reviewed the project and a week after, I am off to go. Kaunti lang ang dinala ko para sa
aking team dahil may mga firm na rin doon na kinuha ang mga pinsan ng asawa ni Zire.

I am annoyed because hindi makakasabay sa akin si Zire papunta sa may Casa Amara
kaya iritado ako.

That brat! I think she tricked me here! Huh! At uto-uto rin ako?

Damn it, Scira Rosalie!

Hindi ako makausap ng team dahil sa haba ng nguso ko sa biyahe, kung abot nga
siguro ito ng Mindanao ay malamang naroon na ang haba ng nguso ko dahil sa
pagsimangot.

I reached the place later after midnight and when we had our service, excited na excited
ang team samantalang bagsak ang balikat ko.

Kasama kaya siya sa team?

Oh, huh! Baliw na nga ata ako. Bakit ko iniisip? Paki ko ba? Gwapo ba siya? Huh!

I tried staying a professional when we reached Casa Amara, seryoso ako habang
naglalakad at patuloy sa pagkuha ng litrato ang team.

"Architect? Architect Valderama?" natigil ako nang may tumawag sa atensyon ko sa

labas ng hotel.

"Yes?" I asked timidly.

"Oh! Welcome po!" she chuckled at me then glanced at the man beside her. "sabihin
mo nandito na!" she said quietly but I heard it.

Tumakbo ang lalaki papasok kaya sumulyap ako roon.

"Uhm, this way, Architect." Magalang nitong sabi at inilahad sa akin ang daan.

I nodded, may bell boy na kumuha sa bagahe ko kaya hinayaan ko na at sumunod sa

babae. Nakasunod ang team sa akin at sa paghakbang ko ay tumunog ang takong ng
heels ko.

It's past midnight pero maliwanag pa rin ang hotel, sa pwesto at dinig ko ang
paghampas ng alon sa dalampasigan. Malamig ang simoy ng hangin ang tumama sa
balat ko kaya napangiti ako.

Nang tumapak ang paa ko sa lobby ng hotel ay halos mapatalon ako sa boses.
"One...two...three...go!"

I almost screamed when I heard the sound of drums. Napahawak ako sa dibdib nang
biglang nakitang ang mga staff ay naka-hawaiian na suot at nagda-drum gamit ang mga
palad nila.

"Welcome! Welcome! Architect Scira!" they sang and I gasped.

What the hell...

Nagulat ako nang may lumitaw na mga lalaking naka-hawaiian na damit din, puno ng
bulaklak ang damit at may bulaklak din sa leeg. Naka-puting cap pa at mask ang mga
matatangkad na lalaki. Apat silang lahat.

Napakurap ako nang bigla silang sumayaw. Suminghap ako at napatakip sa bibig nang
may lumitaw na may ukulele at nagpatugtog ng pearly shell at kasabay ang pagsayaw
ng lalaki kasabay sa musika.

Ay, shit, may pa-dance number? Bongga!

I was amazed and chuckled when I had a welcome dance number.

Bongga naman pala ito!

Tuwang-tuwa ang team, ngumuso ako at nilabas ang phone sa tuwa para mag-video. I
saw some men wearing mask are too shy to dance pero ang dalawa ay todo hataw.
I giggled at that, ang isang lalaki ay sumasayaw pang lumapit sa akin, may dalang
bulaklak na bilog na isinasabit sa leeg.

I chuckled when the tall man placed the flower necklace on my neck. Sumulyap ako sa
kanya pero hindi ko masyadong maaninag ang kanyang mukha.

"Welcome, Ma'am." that baritone voice stopped me.

I froze pero kaagad ding napalingon at napasulyap sa lalaking matangkad na paalis. His
built's familiar. Hindi pa siya tuluyang nakakalabas kaya patuloy pa rin ang pagsayaw
niya, kumekendeng pa ang balakang.

I pouted and glanced at his behind.

Nice ass.

Masaya ang tulog ko noong gabi, katawagan ko ang Mommy at Daddy at nakatulog at
maaga ring nagising kinabukasan.

I decided to wear a simple dress for the morning, mamaya pa naman kami aalis
patungong isla kaya nagpapahinga muna ako, katatapos ko lang rin i-meeting ang team
at makausap si Caspian.

Lumabas ako sa resort at naupo sa may bench, mula sa pwesto ko ay kitang-kita ko

ang malinis na tubig sa dagat at ang malamig na hangin ay tumama sa aking balat.

I crossed my arms, fixing my sunglasses as I stared at it peacefully.

So far, no Warren. So far, so good.

Baka nga wala rin siya rito? Sana wala.

"P'wedeng makiupo, Miss?" I froze when I heard a baritone, soothing voice.

Kumalabog ang puso ko at mabilis na napasulyap sa gilid at mabuti na lang ay naka-

sunglasses ako kaya hindi nakita ang panlalaki ng mata ko.

Beside the bench where I am sitting is the man I just wished not to see.

Warren Augustine Miranda still looks the same, just that, his feature matured a bit.
Matangkad at gwapo, suot ang kulay puting body shirt at maong pants. I saw his
disheveled hair dancing with the wind, his silver dog tag hanging on his neck.

Oh, I would love to choke you with the dog tag, Mars.

"Sure." Tipid kong sabi at bumaling sa dagat.

"Thank you," he muttered.

My heart hammered inside my chest when I felt his presence, umusog ako sa
pinakadulo at naupo siya sa kabilang dulo. I gasped when I smelled his minty scent.
He's still using his perfume, huh?

H'wag ka papaapekto, Scira. Mas malakas ka sa inaakala mo, hindi ka marupok! Laban,
girl!
Nanatili kaming tahimik, wala akong planong magsalita at sana ay siya rin.

"M-ma'am—"

"Oh! Architect Valderama! Hello!" I smirked when I heard Caspian's bubbly voice.

Sumulyap ako at nakita ko ang pagkunot ng noo ni Miranda, his black eyes sharpen
and glanced at Caspian.

"Oh, Warren, nandito ka pala!" Caspian laughed, nakasuot ng dress shirt at slacks,
lumapit siya mas napangiti nang pumunta sa gitna namin. "Paupo, ah!"

"Oh, sure!" lumaki ang ngiti ko.

Thank, God! You're a savior, Caspian!

I saw Warren glaring at Caspian who only smiled at him, his green eyes are filled with
amusement.

"Uupo lang! Bat ka gagalet?" Caspian chuckled and I saw how Warren scoffed and
looked away.

"So?" I called his attention.

"Oh, Architect, I just wanted to say thank you for accepting the project." Caspian smiled
at me.
"No worries," I muttered.

"Mabuti at pumayag ka," aniya at ngumiti.

"Well, my cousin personally asked me for this and I said yes, 'cause why not?" I smiled.

"Oh, si Zire? It's a pleasure to have you here, thank you. Si Zire lang ba ang dahilan
kaya ka pumayag?" he asked and glanced at Warren who stopped and slowly glanced
at me.

"Yes, may iba pa ba?" nakangiti kong sabi.

"Oh..." he muttered and grin, nakita ko ang pa-simple niyang pagsiko sa gagong
Miranda. "I see."

Natahimik kami roon nang may marinig na sigaw.

"Taho! Taho kayo r'yan!" the vendor exclaimed.

"Oh, taho! Taho!" tawag ni Caspian at kumaway.

The vendor went towards us, tahimik kong tinitigan ang daliri ko nang tumayo si
Caspian at mula sa gilid ay damang-dama ko ang titig ni Miranda.

"Architect, gusto mo?" he asked and I nodded.

"Yes, thank you." I muttered.

"Ikaw, Mars?" baling niya kay Warren na kumunot lang ang noo at supladong nag-iwas
ng tingin.

"Sungit!" he hissed. "tatlo, Kuya." Ngiti niya.

Inabot sa amin ni Cas ang taho bago bumaling sa vendor.

"Magkano?"

"Thirty lang, Sir." Sagot nito at nakita kong natigilan si Caspian at sumulyap kay
Warren.

"Hoy, Miranda, may barya ka?" he said in a small voice.

"Wala," Warren answered and sipped on his taho, tahimik akong sumimsim din at
pinagmasdan si Caspian na napahawak sa batok at tumawa.

"Tang inang bombay na 'yon, wala kung kailangan." He muttered.

"Uh, Kuya..." Caspian muttered. "Wala akong pambayad, eh."

I closed my eyes tightly at that.

"Cas," I called, handa na sanang ilabas ang wallet pero tinaas niya ang kamay sa akin.
"Uhm, ganito na lang." He said, may kinapa sa bulsa at nag-abot ng business card.
"Ako si Caspian, I'm uh, I own the hotel."

The vendor frowned.

"Oh? Ano ngayon kung—"

"Uh, pasensya na. I will pay you back, uhm, t'saka ipakita mo lang itong card sa loob, I
will grant you and your family a free three-day stay." He said shyly.

The vendor glanced at us kaya tumango na lang ako.

"Well, he's the owner." I said and the vendor slowly nodded.

"Talaga, Sir?"

"Oo," he smiled shyly. "pasensya na, wala kasi akong barya."

Hay naku, Alcantara...

The vendor left, sumisimsim pa rin ako ng taho roon at nakita kong lumingon si Caspian
na parang walang nangyari at ngumisi sa amin.

"Sarap ng taho, 'no?" he smirked and showed his cup.

"Hmm, thanks." I smiled.

"Tamang-tama! Taho para sa mga taong naglaho pagkatapos mangako!" he cheered at

napaubo ako, parang pumasok ata ang taho sa ilong. I heard Warren coughing hard
too, nabibilaukan na.

Kabanata 20

"Boom! Ilag, Mars!" nagitla akong lalo nang lumitaw ang pamilyar na si Vioxx Miranda,
biglang humarang sa tapat ni Warren na malakas na umuubo, pilit itong tinatakpan.

"Takpan mo 'yang gago! Baka nasapul!" halakhak ng isang lalaking may green na mata
ng kagaya ni Caspian, nakangisi.

I felt like choking, napahawak pa ako sa lalamunan at nag-panic si Caspian.

"S-shit, Architect!" lumapit siya pero umiling ako at tinakpan ang bibig.

"S-sorry..." I said softly and shook my head.

Natigil si Warren, his face is still bright red, halatang nasasamid pa. his black eyes
stared at me, as if worried kaya nag-iwas ako ng tingin at umubo.

"Tubig? Architect?" Caspian offered and I immediately shook my head.

"I-I'm fine," I said softly and stood.

I saw Vioxx Miranda stared briefly, Caspian and the other man looked worried and
amused. Maging si Warren ay ganoon kaya ngumiti ako.

"U-uh, well, uuna na ako." I said formally and like a robot, they all nodded, as if
synchronized.

Diretso akong naglakad palayo, diretso ang tayo at nakataas ang ulo. Mukhang formal
pero nang hindi na nila ako nakita ay nag-agaw ang embarrassment at stress sa
mukha.

"Gago ka! Sabi ko tulungan ako! Hindi..." lumingon ako nang marinig ang galit na boses
ni Warren.

He's still on the bench, kicking those man habang humahagalpak lang ang mga ito.

"Ang ganda ng punch line, magkatunog! Purihin mo naman!" Caspian exclaimed.

"Tang ina—" Warren hissed pero natigil nang sipain 'nung seryosong lalaking may
berdeng mata ang paa niya.

Sabay-sabay silang lumingon sa akin kaya napatindig ako, I saw how they acted as if
behave and good boys kaya tumikhim ako para hindi mapahiyang nahuli.

"U-uhm, are we leaving soon?" I asked, referring to Caspian who smiled and nodded.

"Well, yeah. Mamaya ikakarga na sa yate ang bagahe." Aniya.

"Thanks," prenteng sabi ko, nakangiti pa at bahagyang tumalikod.

Naglakad pa ako, pa-simpleng lumingon pagkatapos at sa gulat ay sinasakal na ni
Warren si Caspian at nagbibilang si Vioxx at 'yong may berdeng mata sa gilid.

My forehead creased.

Weird people.

I get into my room and that's when my heart started throbbing like crazy. I didn't expect
I'll see him today! I mean, he's nowhere to be found yesterday and earlier tapos...tapos
biglang susulpot?

Good thing Caspian came! Hindi ko alam ang gagawin kung sakaling lumitaw siyang
bigla! Baka wala pang ilang segundo ay nailampaso ko na ang nguso niya sa lapag!

Huh! Warren Augustine, huh? Wala akong kilalang ganoon!

I proclaimed na may amnesia ako!

"Sorry na..." Zirena muttered in the other line.

"Kapag nakita kita, tatalupan kita ng buhay." I threatened but then she suddenly
laughed.

"Hindi ko alam na nand'yan kaagad si Warren, Scira! Promise!" she exclaimed. "Ang
alam ko darating siya sa isla sa susunod pa kaya hindi muna ako sumabay sa'yo—"
"You said you'll come with me!" I whined, sinipa ang paa habang nakadungaw sa
terrace ng kwarto ko.

Sa harapan ko ay magandang tanawin ng Casa Amara. From my place, I can see the
waves crashing on the white sand, may mga batang naglalaro rin sa dalampasigan.

My forehead creased, I saw Caspian chasing a kid, naka-dress shirt na pormal pero
naka-paa at nakikipagpatintero sa batang babae.

"Baby, come here!" he called. "don't run near the shores!" I heard his shout.

"Biglaang emergency nga kasi, Scira." Tawa pa ni Zirena sa kabilang linya kaya mas
humaba ang nguso ko.

"Sinadya mo, eh!" I exclaimed.

"Hindi, ah!" tawa niya. "nakalimutan kong may schedule ako sa OB ko kaya hindi
nakasama, isa pa, ayaw ng asawa ko, eh."

"Aarte, porket may lovelife." Irap ko sa hangin at mas napatawa siya.

Hinawi ko ang buhok nang tumama sa akin ang sariwang hangin.

"Mag-love life ka na kasi." Aniya. "Malay mo, 'yan na ang tamang panahon para mag-
reconcile kayo ng lost love mo."

"Lost love, my ass." I scoffed. "Hindi bale nang single forever, Zirena."
"Sus!" tawa niya sa akin. "mahirap din kapag single, girl, wala kang pa-warak!"

"Huh?" my forehead creased. "Warak?"

"Warak! I mean kapag ano—"

"Parang ayoko na marinig!" I exclaimed and she laughed more. "may asawa ka na
lahat-lahat kaya mas lumala 'yang bibig mo."

"Pa-demure si Madame!" she laughed. "basta, ingat! Kaya mo 'yan, Scira. Tignan
naming ni Wavy if makakadaan kami, si Dad kasi nagda-drama, doon daw muna kami
sa kanila ni Mommy."

"I hate you!" I whined.

"Love you, cous..." she teased and I rolled my eyes.

"Kung hindi ka lang buntis, tiniris na kita!" I said in a high pitched voice, thumping my
feet.

"Hays! Yes, ligtas! Mabuti na lang talagang sabik palagi si Wave—"

"Sshh!" nanlaki ang mata ko, nahihiya na sa pinagsasabi niya at humalakhak lang siya.

"Sige na, bye na!" tawa niya.

Nagpaalam na siya at nakasimangot akong dumukwang sa may terrace para
magpakalma.

"Wala akong kilalang Warren!" I said, a bit loud and irritated.

"Ouch..." I froze when I heard a manly voice.

Nanlaki ang mata ko, mabilis na tumingon sa may tabing kwarto at nakitang may
lalaking nakasilip sa akin doon sa terrace.

Kumalabog ang dibdib ko.

"K-kanina ka pa d'yan?" I asked, gulping and slowly, he nodded.

His black eyes glanced at me and I cleared my throat.

"Nakikinig ka sa usapan ng may usapan?" pagtataray ko pa.

"No," he shook his head.

"Oh, what are you doing there?" I asked, raising my brow.

"Tinitignan lang 'yong crush ko." He said and I froze.

"Crush? Anong crush? Saan?" I asked nonchalantly.

His lip twitched, his amused black eyes stared at me, raising his brow.

"I'm...looking at her right now." He said.

Natigilan ako, para ata akong tuod na nakadungaw sa kanya. I saw his amused eyes,
nangingiti pero halatang nagpipigil.

"And anyway, if you don't know me, let me introduce myself." He smiled.

Hindi ako nakaimik at kumunot lang ang noo.

"I'm Warren Augustine Miranda and...I love you." he said soothingly.

I was panicking inside, my heart keeps on throbbing fast yet I managed to stay calm.

I raised my brow, crossing my arms on my chest before looking at him.

"Sorry, Sir. Hindi ako pumapatol sa mga taong parang taho." I said.

His jaw dropped and I smirked, rolled my eyes and turned my back away from him.

I was fuming, I keep on screaming quietly on the bathroom to calm myself.

"I love you, my ass..." I muttered. "I've learned my lessons, asshole."

You won't lie and abandon those people you love. Never.

Lumabas ako sa kwarto, dala ang maleta at pababa na sana para dalhin ang bagahe sa
yate at aalis na raw kami patungo sa isla.

"Architect Valderama, right?" my eyes shifted to the side and saw a tall man.

"Yes?"

"Uhm..." he licked his lip and smiled shyly.

"Architect Michael Pablo, from Miranda firm." He said and I smiled formally and nodded.

"Nice meeting you, Architect. Scira Valderama." Pakilala ko.

He offered his hand and I took it.

"I heard a lot about you, you're the daughter of the famous Zidney Valderama?" he
asked.

"Well, yeah." I said. "Third child."

"Wow!" he smiled. "I'm a big fan of your works! I saw your big project? Noong nagpunta
ako sa Kuala Lumpur, naging usapan namin iyon. We even visited the place."

Napangiti ako, interesado.

"That's so good to hear, what can you say?" I asked, smiling.

Sumulyap ako sa kamay kong hindi niya pa binibitawan sa pagkalibang kaya hinayaan
ko muna.

"It's great! Your designs are great—" naputol ang sasabihin niya at miski ako ay nagulat
nang may dumaan sa pagitan namin, dahilan para magbitaw ang mga kamay.

My forehead creased, napatingin sa bastos at napaawang ang labi ng makita ang

seryosong si Augustine na nakatingin sa amin.

"Why did you—"

"Ay, sorry, akala ko daanan." Aniya na tumaas ang sulok ng labi.

My mouth parted a bit and I gasped, nakita ko ang pag-igting ng panga niya bago
sumulyap sa kausap ko.

"Vioxx is looking for you, Architect." He said coldly to the confused man.

"Huh?"

"Tawag ka." Aniya at nagtaka ang lalaki.

"Saan, Engineer?" Architect Pablo asked and Warren looked around and pointed
somewhere.
"Ah, doon, oh. Sa may malayo." He said.

"Oh, sige." He smiled and glanced at me. "Architect Scira, mamaya na lang."

"Alright," I smiled a bit and he waved before he left.

"'Yon, wala ng asungot." He said.

Nagkatinginan kami ni Warren, kumunot ang noo ko sa kanya bago umirap, hinila ang
maleta ko sana pero napasinghap lang ako nang kunin niya iyon mula sa akin.

"What..."

"Hello, Ma'am, hahatid na kita." He smiled like a little kid and my forehead creased.

"I don't need help, Mr. whoever-you-are." I said, raising my brow at him. Inagaw ko ang
maleta sa kanya, plano na dumiretso sana sa elevator.

I turned my back on him, walking towards the elevator when I felt something wrapping
around my waist from the back, making me stop from my tracks.

I froze, gulat na napasulyap sa likod pero hindi ko na nagawa nang maramdaman ang
init sa aking likuran. He moved closer until I felt his warmth on my back.

"A-anong ginagawa mo?" mariing sabi ko pero mas yumakap siya sa aking baywang
mula sa likod.
He buried his face on my neck and my breath hitched when I heard his breath intake.

"F-five minutes," he whispered.

"L-let me go..." I said breathlessly, humigpit ang hawak sa maleta ko.

"P-please, let me just hold you..." he sounded like he's in despair. "ngayon lang ako
nakalapit, please..."

I can feel the painful throbbing inside my chest, nangilid ang luha ko at kumuyom ang
kamay.

"Bitawan mo ako," mahinahon kong sabi.

"N-no..." he whispered and buried his head more. "please, kahit sandali?"

"No," mariin kung sabi, bumaba ang kamay sa braso niyang nakapulupot sa baywang
ko. "bitawan mo ako."

"Two minutes," he breathe. "please, k-kahit saglit. I just wanted to get some strength."

"Strength, huh?" matalim kong sabi. "tam ana panloloko, Augustine. Sawa na ako
r'yan."

Pilit kong tinatanggal ang kamay niyang nakapulupot sa t'yan ko pero mas malakas siya
sa akin, he buried his head more and I was stunned when I heard his soft cries.
Hindi ako nakagalaw, naramdaman ko ang pagtulo ng luha niya sa balikat ko at mas
nanghina.

"I-I love you, Scira..." he whispered. "M-miss na miss na kita."

"B-bullshit," I whispered, I felt like I am too strong now to not be soften by his words.
"your love is bullshit, Miranda. I hope I'd never get to fucking experience it."

"L-let me explain," he muttered, "I..."

I froze when the elevator in front of me opened, bahagyang umawang ang labi ko nang
makitang may tao roon sa loob.

I saw Caspian with a woman, 'yong lalaking kapareho ng mga mata niya na seryoso,
'yong akala kong gusto ni Warren ay naroon din kasama ang pasyente ni Dad noon na
si Winter.

They looked baffled and I blinked, "let me explain, p-please, please hear me." Warren
whispered and kissed my neck briefly.

"Oopps, wrong floor." It was Caspian who spoke, laughing a bit after the awkward
silence.

"Isarado mo!" the lady beside her muttered, "sorry, Architect."

I just blinked, unmoving.

"S-Scira..." tinuro ako ni Winter at umawang ang labi para magsalita pero sumarado na
ng paunti-unti ang elevator.

Natauhan ako bigla, I did my best to push Warren's hands away from my stomach.

"Bitawan mo ako." I said hardly, pushed him and I saw how he took a step back,
weakly.

Nilingon ko siya, I am aware my eyes are in the verge of tears. Halong galit at sakit ang
nararamdaman sa sinabi niya.

"I-I love you, please..." he took a step forward and tried taking my hand but I pushed it
again.

"H'wag na h'wag mo na akong lalapitan." I said hardly.

"S-Scira, I don't want to do that—"

"I said stop!" I exclaimed and I saw how he froze.

I glanced at his eyes and I saw how tears fell on his cheek, he looked like a lost kid with
his teary and soft eyes.

"P-please," he whispered weakly.

Really a good actor, Miranda. Ang galing-galing mong magsinungaling.

"I don't need bullshits from you, Augustine." Mariin kong sabi. "If that said love is what
you can offer, hindi bale na lang."

He lowered his head, nakita kong basa ang kanyang pisngi, I stared at him and I saw
him lifted his arm, trying to dry his tears with the back of his palm.

"S-sorry..." his voice broke as he tried drying his tears.

"Engineer Miranda! Wala naman po roon si Engr. Vioxx!" I heard Arch. Pablo and saw
him approaching kaya sumulyap ako kay Warren na nakatungo lang sa harapan ko.

"Dry your tears, I don't want anyone seeing you like that after we talked. Ayokong isipin
nilang may koneksyon ako sa'yo." Malamig kong sabi.

He stared at me, his black eyes mirrored agony and pain. I stared at him and to the man
approaching.

"I don't want anyone to know na magkakilala tayo." I said. "Pretend like you don't know
me and I will pretend you never existed too."

Tumalikod ako, hila ang maleta ko at diretsong nagtungo roon. I turned and saw him
watching me quietly, his sad eyes tried making a connection with mine but failed.

I stared at his face and watched as the elevator closed temporarily with him on the other
side, like the feelings I have for him. Only that...it's permanently closing.

Engr. Vioxx Miranda talked to me while we're on the yacht, abala ang team ko sa
pagkuha ng litrato sa mga magagandang tanawin.
The sea is clear, kitang-kita ko ang mga corals at bato sa ilalim. Malamig ang pagtama
ng hangin sa aking balat at damang-dama ko iyon, I am wearing a blue dress. May hat
pa nga ako kanina kaso sa takot na liparin ay hindi ko na lang isinuot muli.

"We are really thankful you accepted this project Architect Valderama," Engr. Vioxx
Miranda said when he excused me to talk.

"It's my pleasure," I said formally. "and thank you for giving me a chance to go there.
Kaunti lang ang pinapayagan niyong pumunta sa isla, right?"

"How did you know?" he smiled and I noticed his brown eyes.

Sa pwesto naming dalawa ay natanto kong sobrang hawig ni Vioxx si Warren. I heard
they are cousins. They are both tall with athletic stance, matikas at matipuno.

Vioxx Miranda has a bit stricter expression and Warren is the serious and shy version of
him.

Mapungay ang mga mat ani Warren, kagaya rin sa kanya. They resembled when they
both looked serious.

"Well, I researched a bit and Zirena told me." I answered.

"Thank you, may check-up ata sila ni Wave kaya hindi nakasama." He stared at me
briefly and sighed, "and about the past..."
Hindi ko nasundan ang sinasabi niya nang maramdamang may nakatingin sa akin. It
isn't actually just a stare, a glare, perhaps. Dama ko ang talim ng tingin sa akin kaya
bahagya akong lumingon at nakitang may babae roon sa may kabilang parte.

She's watching us. She looks serious and sophisticated, matalim ang tingin sa akin
bago lumipat ang tingin sa kausap ko.

I glanced at Vioxx who's speaking.

"We never expected Mom would do that—" aniya pero muli akong bumaling sa babae
na matalim na ang tingin kay Vioxx.

Her eyes landed on me, saglit lang na titigan pero sa talim ng tingin niya ay halos
kilabutan ako.

Did I...do something wrong?

"Warren is..." I heard Vioxx saying something faintly pero hindi ko na nasundan dahil
tumayo na ang babae at naglakad papunta sa pwesto namin.

I saw how she walked near us, glared at Vioxx who's lips lifted, amused while looking at
her.

Nag-walk out ang babae kaya sumunod ang tingin ko roon at nakita kong biglang
napatawa si Vioxx.

"Hmm?" I asked when I noticed him.

"Nothing," he smiled then glanced at the woman who walked away. "that's my baby,
sorry if she's glaring at you."

"O-oh..." bumilog ang bibig ko.

"Jealous," he muttered playfully, chuckling.

That made me smile, they all got their own love life, huh.

Isang malaking sana all.

"Anyway, I wanted to thank you for—"

"Lapitan mo nga sabi!" my forehead creased when I caught a glimpse of Winter, my

Dad's patient pulling a man.

"Isa!" I heard her loud voice and my forehead creased more when I saw her pulling
Warren out of somewhere.

Nagsalubong ang kilay ko at kumunot ang noo. Nagsasalita si Vioxx sa harapan ko pero
ang atensyon ko ay na kay Winter at sa paghila niya kay Warren.

Are they close?

"N-nahihiya nga—"
"Lavarn! Anong hiya-hiya? Pinalaki ba kitang ganyan?" hindi ko na narinig ang usapan
at mas naghilahan sila at tawanan.

They are really close, huh. How cute.

Mas nairita ako roon.

Tumalim ang tingin ko habang nakatitig kay Augustine, I saw him laughing, his face is
bright red but when he glanced at me and saw me looking, he froze.

His smile faded, tumaas ang kilay ko at unti-unting umirap at nag-iwas ng tingin.

Hindi ka p'wedeng maging masaya! Hindi!

We reached the island and it was breathtaking and one of the kind. Kaagad akong
sinalubong ng sariwang hangin, I saw tall coconut trees and amazing rock formations.

Umawang ang labi ko habang nakamasid.

It really is beautiful. I've been to different islands yet this one is...wow. I felt lucky coming
here and having the chance to see it.

"Architect, ang ganda!" tuwang-tuwang sabi ng team kaya ngumiti ako at tumango.

I fixed my dress, marahang bumaba sa hagdan patungong board walk pero natapilok
ako.
I thought I'd fall but then someone caught my waist. I gasped, mabilis na napakapit sa
balikat ng kung sino at natigilan nang masalubong ang mga mata ni Warren, my heart
hammered and he stared at me deeply.

I gulped, immediately woke up from my reverie that I instantly pushed him away from
me.

He cleared his throat, napansin kong nakatingin na sa amin ang iba. I saw Winter
grinning, nahuli ko pa ang pagtatago ni Caspian ng phone at pagsipol.

"Thanks," I said formally.

"W-welcome." He answered and I nodded before turning my back from him,

embarrassed.

We had a brief meeting after they decided it's time for dinner. Sa resto na maliit sa isla
sila nagpahanda kaya pumasok ako roon.

"Tara, Architect!" tawag ni Anna kaya ngumiti ako.

May mahabang lamesa roon na pinagdugtong, lalapit na sana nang may kumapit sa
braso ko. I almost jumped and glanced beside me.

"Hi, Scira!"

"Winter..." I called and she grinned at me.

"Tara, kain na tayo!" she said cheerfully and I shook my head, biglang naalala ang
hilahan nila ni Miranda kanina.

"Uhm, sorry, I will eat with—"

"I insist! No, doon tayo!" she grinned and I didn't have the chance to say no when she
pulled me towards the table where Caspian, Polaris, his wife, Vioxx,Win and Warren are
sitting.

"U-uhm..." nagkatinginan kami ni Warren at nakita ko ang pagkurap niya at pasimpleng

pagsuklay ng daliri sa buhok.

"Ehem! Ehem!" malakas na tikhim ni Caspian pero siniko siya ng asawa.

"Really, Winter, doon na lang ako—"

"No! matagal kitang hindi nakita so you'll sit here!" she said.

Sumulyap ako sa mga kasama sa table at nahiya.

"It's okay," I saw Warrion, kapatid ni Caspian. He smiled at me.

"Oh, that's my husband." Ngiti ni Winter kaya natigilan ako at napasulyap sa kanya.

"Really?" biglang parang lumuwang ang paghinga ko roon.

"Hmm, kaya dito ka na!" I was shocked when she held me towards the seat beside
Warren's.

I saw how stiff he is while sitting there, gusto ko mang umalma ay hindi ko na nagawa
dahil sa mapanuring tingin nila. I suddenly remembered the scene they saw earlier and
my throat dried up.

Formal, Scira. Act like nothing happened.

I sighed then slowly smiled at Winter.

"Thank you," I said and looked around. "and uhm, hello."

The dinner was served, sea foods, it was one of the most awkward dinner of my life.
Kinakabahan ako dahil miminsa'y magdidikit ang braso namin ni Warren at nagwawala
ang halimaw sa sikmura ko.

Gutom talaga siguro ako.

A commotion happened when the lady glaring at me earlier choke on her food.
Nagtungo roon si Vioxx para tumulong kaya nagkantyawan sila.

I smiled.

My spoon suddenly fell, nagulat ako roon kaya tumungo ako para kunin sana pero may
nauna na sa akin.
I shivered when I touched Warren's hand, nagkatinginan kami at nakita ko ang paglunok
niya.

Nagising ako sa katotohanan kaya tumikhim ako at inagaw sa kanya ang kutsara,
"thanks." Mahinang sabi ko.

Nagtawag ako ng waiter para sa bagong utensils at habang nag-aantay ay

pinakialaman ko ang masarap na sea food sa harapan ko.

"Act calm, hindi ganyan turo ko sa'yo, ah." I overheard Caspian whispering to Warren
who only scoffed and pushed him a bit.

Warrion laughed, kita ko ang pagkindat sa akin ni Winter at si Polaris ay ngumiti lang.

"Hello, Sir, Ma'am. Ito po ang specialty naming taho." Nagitla pa ako at natulala sa
inilagay na baso sa harapan namin.

Nakita kong natigil si Warren at namula, narinig ko pa ang bungisngis ni Vioxx, Caspian
at Warrion. My cheeks flushed but I chose to be formal.

"What's...special about this?" I asked the servant instead.

"Ay, Ma'am. May flavor po at mas maraming sahog. You can check po, bago sa menu
namin at ipapatikim po muna namin sa inyo para kung may kulang ay ma-improve
namin."

Bumungisngis lalo si Caspian, "Reev, may hugot ako—"

"Gago!" kinurot ni Warren si Cas kaya nagsikuhan silang dalawa.

"Oh, thank you. We'll definitely check this." Polaris smiled and she left.

"Paabot ng mussels, Major. Akin na lahat, kaunti na lang naman." Winter smiled at her
husband.

Para iwas awkward ay sumimsim ako ng taho at napatango dahil masarap nga. Kinain
ko rin ang sea foods sa harapan ko at naramdaman ang titig ni Warren kaya sumulyap
ako sa kanya.

I sipped on the taho ang stared at him. He's looking at the way I sipped kaya tumaas
ang kilay ko.

"Gusto mong...taho?" I awkwardly offered to ease the silence.

"I—uhm, I have that. Ayoko ng taho. Gusto ko 'yong..." sumulyap siya sa may baba.

"Ano?"

"'Yong tahong mo." He said.

My eyes widen, sa gulat ko ay natampal ko ang bibig niya.

"Manyak!" I hissed and he froze, looking so shock.

Namula si Warren at napakurap sa akin, marahang humawak sa pisngi niya. "Huh?
Why did you—"

"B-bakit...bakit mo gusto ang t-tahong ko?!" I hissed quietly, my heart pounding in

shock.

"B-bawal ba?" he muttered, bumaba ang tingin sa plato ko. "h-hihingi lang sana ng
kaunti, k-kaso ayaw mo ata, uh, h'wag na pala..."

My eyes slowly landed on my plate at halos takasan ng kulay ang mukha nang may
matanto.

Sa plato ko ay maraming natirang...tahong.

Kabanata 21

Akala ko, ang buhay ko ay nakabase sa dignidad pero ngayon...parang nawala na

parang bula.

Dignidad, nasaan ka na?

I was bright red, hindi ko alam kung maiiyak ako o ano roon. Warren looks so lost and
confused, namumula ang bahagi ng pisngi at gilid ng labi dahil sa lakas ng tampal ko.

"U-uhm, sure...sa'yo na." Halos ibuhos ko na sa plato niya ang tahong at kung hindi pa
niya ako pinigilan ay malamang naubos na roon.
"That's...enough." He said and took the plate from me, muli niyang inilapag sa harapan
ko ito at inilagay pabalik ang sobra kong naibigay.

The camera's flash stopped me, halos mapatalon ako at napasulyap sa harapan at
nakita kong nanlaki ang mata ni Caspian at ngumiti.

"Ay...napindot." He smiled awkwardly.

Siniko siya ni Polaris kaya tumahimik, nag-init naman ang pisngi ko. Iniisip kung may
nakarinig sa usapang tahong naming dalawa ni Augustine.

Siguro naman ay wala, ano?

Napabaling ako sa may tabi, I froze when I saw Winter and her teasing smile. Tumikhim
ako at napahawak pa sa dress.

"Y-yes?" I asked, trying to be formal.

"Sarap ng tahong, 'no?" she muttered, smiling cutely and my heart hammered.

"D-did you..."

"Huh? Wala akong narinig, ah." She denied but her eyes are screaming with
amusement.

"O-oh," binalewala ko na lang at uminom ng tubig.

I glanced at Warren and saw him checking the mussels on his plate, namumula pa rin. I
even caught him touching the part where I smacked him at nahiya na naman ako.

Manyak na ba ako? Kasalan 'to ng mga pinsan ko, eh!

"Gusto mo tips paano madiligan?" biglang bulong sa akin ni Winter kaya napatalon ako
at sumuluyap sa kanya.

"H-huh?" I asked, confused.

"Tips para madiligan—" my eyes widen when her husband suddenly covered her
mouth.

"Win!" he hissed quietly.

"Turuan kita—" binaba niya ang nakatakip sa bibig niya pero nahuli ito kaagad ni
Warrion.

"I apologize for my wife," he smiled timidly and I find myself nodding.

Natapos ang hapunan na hiyang-hiya ako sa naiisip.

Seriously? I feel like a maniac when I said that! I thought he's referring to my...oh my
God! I shouldn't even think about it!

Wala na ako sa wisyo at nagtungo na lang sa may dalampasigan habang abala sila sa
pag-uusap doon. I even saw Warren looking around, he's holding a paper on his hand.
I saw how his thick brows almost met each other when his forehead creased. Seryoso
ang kulay itim na mga mata at nakita ko pa ang pagsulyap niya sa orasan sa pulsuhan.

Our eyes met, his mouth parted a bit but I looked away and checked my phone before
walking away from where they are.

I called Darshana, humanap ako ng malaking bato kung saan ako p'wedeng maupo
para makausap siya. I was fixing my dress, nang maupo ay halos abutan na ng alon
ang mga paa ko.

I stared at the sea and felt the peace lingering inside my heart. This place feels soothing
and peaceful. Tila nawala ang problema ko habang nakatitig sa magandang kawalan.

The moon is round and bright but the stars are visible. Kitang-kita ko ang pagtatagisan
nila ng liwanag sa madilim na kalangitan.

I can smell the fresh air and almost taste the salt water, dinig ko ang pagaspas ng mga
coconut tree at halos gustuhing dito na lang ako matulog.

They said, the sea is called the Sea of Thieves and this island is what they called the
Lost Island. I am not actually aware what is it but I overheard my team talking about a
tale.

"Scira?" my eyes shifted on my phone and a smile left my lips when I saw my cousin.

"Hi!" I cheered and I saw her grinned at me.

"Bakla ka! Kumusta? You reached the island?" aniya at kaagad akong ngumiti sa kanya
at tumango.

"Yup, we just had our dinner. Kayo?" umayos siya ng upo sa kama at inayos ang
maaikli niyang buhok.

"Yep! I cooked." She chuckled, napatingin sa gilid at mas lumaki ang ngiti ko nang
makita ang pamangkin sa tabi niya.

"Mama Daru," he called and Daru took him before kissing his cheeks, napatingin ito sa
camera at mas lumaki ang ngiti.

"Tita Scira!" he cheered, his dimples deepened more.

"Hello, my baby!" I giggled. "how are you? Have you eaten?"

"Yes po!" he said. "Mama cooked."

"Oh, that's great." I chuckled. "Nasaan 'yong dalawa?"

"Downstairs po, Tita, with Papa Macky." He said cutely kaya mas napangiti na ako.

"Alright, have a good night, baby, okay?"

"Yes po!" he cheered. Nakita kong nakasiksik ang mukha ni Daru sa pamangkin ko
kaya natawa ako.
"Yakap na yakap si Mama Daru, ah?" I teased, sumilip siya sa balikat nito at ngumisi sa
akin.

"S'yempre, love na love ko ang baby ko na 'to, right, baby?" she tickled him. "love mo
ba si Mama Daru?"

"Yes, Mama! I love you!" he cheered, mas natawa ako nang dambahin siya nito at
nagharutan sa camera.

My cousin and I talked for almost fifteen minutes, nagpaalam lang akong aalis nan ang
mas lumamig ang simoy ng hangin at medyo lumalim pa ang gabi. I can feel myself
shivering so I stood and went back to where I last seen my team.

"Oh, Architect, nandito ka pala." My eyes shifted to the man at nagulat ako nang makita
si Arch. Pablo.

"Oh, hello, Architect." Ngiti ko.

He blushed a bit, shyly touching his nape. "Uhm, Michael na lang, Architect."

"Alright, Michael." Ngiti ko, maglalakad n asana ako papunta sa team pero humabol
siya at naglakad palapit sa akin.

"Can I at least call you Scira?" he asked kaya lumingon ako sa kanya.

Alam kong madalas na intimidating talaga ako tignan kaya hindi na ako nagulat nang
mamula siya, "sorry, I didn't mean to—"
"It's okay," I smiled at him. "sure, you can call me that."

His mouth parted a bit, ngumiti na ako at tumalikod muli at narinig ang mahina niyang
"yes!"

Nakatayo na ang iba pagkarating ko kaya nagtaka ako, I walked slowly towards them
and heard Warren speaking, "okay, it's settled then, anyone can go to their respective
rooms."

Oh, they got their own room na?

Mabilis akong naglakad palapit, nahihiya man ay lumapit ako kay Warren para pormal
na magtanong.

"Uh, is there any rooms left? Sorry, I am late." I said softly but then Warren looked at
me. Seryoso siyang napasulyap sa likuran ko at kumunot bigla ang noo bago muling
bumaling sa akin.

Kumalabog kaagad ang puso ko, we just stared at each other until he shrugged and
took my arm.

"You'll stay in my room," he said timidly and my mouth parted when he pulled me softly
towards him.

I crashed on his chest and my eyes widen, natulak ko siya at narinig ang boses ni
Michael.

"Scira, we can—"
"She's staying with me," he answered coldly.

Nakita ko kaagad ang tingin ng mga kasamahan, kumalabog ang dibdib ko at hindi na
nakaalma nang mula sa braso ko ay bumaba ang kamay niya sa palad ko.

I was stunned while looking at him slowly intertwining his fingers with mine, he gripped it
a bit tighter and glanced at the crowd.

"Excuse me, mauuna na kami. Have a good night, everyone." He said, tugging my
hand.

Gulat at tulala pa ako nang hilahin niya ako papunta kung saan, my eyes widen, huli na
nang matanto ang nangyayari kaya mabilis kong hinila ang aking kamay mula sa kanya.

"What are you doing?" I asked hardly, lumingon pa sa paligid bago siya balingan.

"Sa kwarto ka matutulog," he said and my brow lifted, crossing my arms on my chest.

"Excuse me?" I raised my brow. "lalaki ka at babae ako! Are we supposed to be

sleeping in the same room? No!"

"You got no choice, we only have a few cabanas left na p'wede pang tulugan. Almost
everything is subjected to renovation—"

"I can at least have someone else in the room!" I exclaimed and I saw him froze.
I saw how pain crossed his eyes but I didn't mind it, he can pretend, he can always lie.
Hindi na ako papadala sa mga matang iyan.

"They all got their room mates, dalawang tao lang ang p'wede kada cabana—"

"Then find me someone else!" I exclaimed, my eyes throwing him sharp daggers.

"Sinong gusto mo?" his forehead creased. "that fucking Architect—"

"Oh, I can tolerate Michael more!" I exclaimed, enraged.

"Oh, first name basis, huh?" his jaw clenched, mas kumunot ang noo at sinuklay ang
kanyang buhok. "kakakilala niyo lang tapos gusto mong kasama? Who know what he'll
do—"

"Yeah, who knows?" I grimaced. "hindi ko alam, ayos lang! Eh, ikaw? Ayoko sa'yo dahil
kabisado ko na ang halang niyang bituka mo!"

"Ma'am..." he breathe, almost losing his patience but trying to stay calm. "let me just
stay with you, hindi kita guguluhin—"

"No!" I hissed, "I will have anyone in my room just...not you!"

Naglakad ako palayo, I walked out, annoyed. Diretso lang ang lakad ko at dinig na dinig
ko ang yapak niya pasunod sa akin.

Kuyom ang kamay ko, iritadong hinahawi ang buhok kong sumasabog sa hangin.
I suddenly stopped when I saw two different direction, sa magkabilang panig ay may
mga cabana kaya nalito ako.

Saan ba ang cabana namin?

Ayokong magtanong kaya umirap na lang ako sa hangin, naglakad patungong kaliwang
parte nang may humawak sa magkabilang braso ko mula sa likuran.

I stopped and glanced at him, raising my brow. Mukhang maamo nanaman ang gago.

Naku! Ako talaga pepektos sa'yo, Augustine! Nang mawala 'yang mukha mo!

"Ano?!" I scoffed.

"Right side, baby. Dulo." He said, slowly pushing me to the other side.

Ngumuso ako, ginalaw ang braso para maalis ang kamay niya at nagdadabog na
nagpunta sa tinuturo niyang cabin.

Pagkatapak ko pa lang sa may hagdan ay kumunot na ang noo ko nang matantong

naroon na ang mga maleta ko!

I looked at my back and saw Augustine walking slowly, nakasunod. Umirap ako at hinila
ang gamit ko papasok ng cabana.
Nakaakyat na siya, akmang papasok kaya tinakbo ko ang pintuan at sinaruduhan siya.

"W-what..." he muttered. "Scira!" sunod-sunod siya kumatok sa pintuan.

"D'yan ka matulog!" I hissed angrily.

"What?" he asked, "sa lapag lang ako—"

"Gago!" I cursed him and he became quiet at first, akala ko ay hindi sasagot na.

"I won't bother you, Scira? Okay?" he said softly and knocked again. "please, Ma'am,
just let me enter—"

"Manigas ka!" I exclaimed. "Akala mo, ah? Ginusto mo magkasama tayo? D'yan ka!"

"Scira..." he sighed and knocked again. "let me just get pillows and—"

"Fuck you!" I hissed, nagdadabog na umalis sa pintuan at nagmukmok sa kama,

humalukipkip at masama ang tingin sa pinto.

Hindi ako umimik, hinayaan lang siyang tumawag at kumatok sa akin hanggang sa
tumigil na siya.

"Alright, I'm staying here." I heard him saying. "I'm sorry."

Hindi ko na siya pinansin, hindi na rin siya nag-ingay kaya hinalughog ko ang maleta ko
para kumuha ng pantulog at ayusin ang skin care products ko sa banyo.
The cabana is small, kung tutuusin nga ay pang-isahang tao lang siguro ito pero naging
dalawa dahil sa shortage sa cabana at under renovation halos ang lahat.

Malaki rin kahit papaano ang kama, kita kaagad ang mini sala roon at may maliit na
kusina sa gilid at banyo. I went inside the bathroom and opened the lights, maayos at
komportable naman kaya napangiti ako.

I am usually maarte sa banyo, ayaw ko ng unsanitized at super liit. Para akong

nasasakal at naaalibadbaran kaya mabuti na lang at maganda ang CR.

I took a quick shower, I wore a simple and thin night dress. Inayos ko rin ang mukha ko
at nang matapos ay sinuot ang tsinelas at lumabas sa banyo.

Kaagad akong dumiretso sa kama at kinuha ang anti-mosquito lotion ko. While I was
spreading the lotion to my legs and arms, I am staring at the door.

"Kumusta kaya 'yong gago?" I muttered and took my comb to brush my hair.

Tahimik na tahimik ang paligid kaya hinayaan ko na. Baka umalis iyon o kaya nakitulog
sa pinsan niya.

I shrugged, sumulyap ako sa dalawang comforter at tatlong unan sa kama bago unti-
unting humiga.

"Finally," I whispered to myself when I felt the soft mattress on my back, niyakap ko ang
isang unan at nagpagulong-gulong sa kama para damhin.
May electric fan pero hindi ko na binuksan dahil malamig naman ang isla. I turned the
lights off at hinayaan na lang ang lamp shade.

I closed my eyes, malalim na ang gabi at halos kinse minutos na akong nakapikit at
nakahiga pero hindi ako makatulog.

My eyes landed on the extra comforter and I sighed, biglang naisip iyong gago sa labas.

Umupo ako sa kama, kinuha ang isang unan at ang comforter bago marahang
nagtungo sa pintuan. Slowly, I opened it.

Madilim pa noong una at hindi ko siya makita pero nang mas nilakihan ko ang bukas ay
nakita ko siya. He's lying on the rattan bench outside the cabana, katabi ng duyan. He's
a tall man kaya kitang-kita ko ang pagbaluktot niya roon.

He's naked at the top now, nakatakip sa kanyang mata ang shirt na suot at pinapalo
ang braso niya na sa tingin ko ay dahil sa lamok.

While looking at him trying to fit himself in the small bench, I felt guilty.

I sighed, lumapit sa kanya para dalhin ang unan at comforter. Kung malamig sa cabana
ay doble ang lamig sa labas, I can hear the waves crashing harshly on the shore, may
kuliglig pa pero maliwanang ang buwan.

Umikot pa siya roon, hinampas naman ang kabilang braso kaya ngumuso ako at
lumapit pang lalo.

"Hoy," I called. Hindi siya gumalaw at bumaling kaya tumikhim ako at kinalabit siya.
"Hoy, Tintin." I called again and he moved, mabilis niyang tinanggal ang shirt sa mukha
niya at napaupo bigla nang makita ako.

"Ma'am?" he called, gulat at mukhang naalimpungatan pa.

"Uhm," I cleared my throat, biting my lip. "I just thought of giving you a pillow and uhm,
comforter."

I saw his eyes soften, his smile lifted upon brushing his disheveled hair with his fingers.

"Thank you," he said, his voice's hoarse and low.

Lumunok ako at tumango, nilagay ko ang unan sa may ulunan niya at nakita ko ang
pag-extend niya ng kamay para patunugin ang daliri. My lips protruded when he moved
his body to finally rest his head to the pillow I gave him.

Dumukwang ako sa tabi niya, tumulong na ilagay ang comforter para hindi siya
malamigan.

"Okay na?" I muttered, nakadukwang pa rin at malapit ang mukha sa mukha niya.

"Hmm," he shifted his gaze and I was stunned when our eyes met. His black eyes
darkened more, bumaba ang tingin ko sa may gilid ng labi niya at napasinghap nang
makitang may maliit na kalmot doon.

"Oh my God..." I whispered, inabot ang pisngi niya at hinaplos ang maliit na kalmot
malapit sa may labi niya. "s-sorry, malakas ata ang tampal ko, I didn't know—"
He caught my hand on his cheek, nagkatinginan kami at napakurap ako nang dalhin
niya ang kamay ko sa labi niya at marahang nagpatak ng halik.

My heart hammered inside my chest.

"I'm fine, that's just a small scratch." He almost whispered.

"But..." I muttered. "that was insensitive of me, hihingi ka lang naman ng t-tahong k-
ko..."

He chuckled, nagkatinginan kami at mas mapaglarong ngisi na sa labi niya.

"I didn't mean it that way, inubos kasi ni Win ang nasa table tapos marami ang sa'yo
kaya hihingi sana ako. Huli ko na rin na-realized na ang bastos pakinggan na gusto
kong humingi ng tahong mo—"

"Augustine!" muli kong tinampal ang bibig niya.

Humagalpak siya ng tawa, muling hinalikan ang likod ng palad ko.

"I didn't mean it, Ma'am! Muntik ko pa ngang masabing, pakain ng tahong mo—"

"Warren Augustine!" I screamed, pulang-pula na ang mukha at humalakhak siya roon.

His shoulders moved with his laughter kaya iritado kong pinalo ang dibdib niya.

"Manyak!" I exclaimed, nag-iinit ang pisngi pero tawa lang siya ng tawa.
Napangiwi ako at napaupo sa lapag, nang hindi siya tumitigil ay hinila ko ang buhok
niya sa inis.

"I was actually thinking of the mussels itself, I didn't know na green minded ka na pala
ngayon—"

"You!" pinalo-palo ko siya at humahalakhak na hinuli niya ang kamay ko para tumigil na
ako.

"Hindi na," he chuckled. "I won't tease you anymore, Ma'am. Sorry."

Humaba ang nguso ko, hinila ang kamay ko mula sa hawak niya pero muli niya akong
hinila palapit. My eyes widen when our faces moved closer to each other, napalunok at
kumunot ang noo ko nang maglapit kami at halos maramdaman ko na ang init ng
katawan niya.

I saw how his eyes landed on me, his eyes shining with amusement. His thin red lips
parted a bit, his eyes went from mine down to my lips and gulped harshly.

His other hand slowly went on my cheek, hindi ako nakagalaw nang marahang haplusin
niya iyon.

"I missed you," halos wala ng boses niyang turan.

Hindi ako nakaimik at tumitig lang sa kanya, I saw him glanced at my eyes and moved
his head up. Nagulat ako at hindi nakagalaw, akala ko noong una ay hahalikan ako pero
sa tumama lang ang halik niya sa aking noo.
His lips on my forehead lingered for a few moments. It was warm, soft and filled with
unnamed emotions, mas humigpit ang hawak niya sa kamay ko at maya-maya'y
humiwalay siya sa akin at hinanap ang mata ko.

"I love you, Scira." He muttered while staring at me, touching my cheek. "You should
sleep inside now, it's late."

Tahimik akong tumango, hindi na siya nilingon at diretsong pumasok sa loob para
magpahinga at matulog.

I woke up next morning with the sunrays escaping from the thin curtains, umupo ako sa
kama, kaagad na may naamoy na amoy ng masarap na agahan kaya tumayo ako.

I saw untouched plates on the table, nakatakip pa iyon at nang buksan ay halos
maglaway na ako sa gutom. Mabilis akong umupo, kinuha ang kutsara at tinidor bago
hinalo ang gatas at sumimsim.

Nakailang subo na ako nang maisip kung paano iyon napadpad ditto kung naisarado ko
ang pinto.

My forehead creased, sumulyap ako sa bagahe ni Warren na nakaayos na sa may

upuan doon.

He got in?

Kung may susi siya, bakit hindi na lang siya nagpumilit at pumasok dito?

I shrugged, kumain na at matapos ay kumuha ng damit na susuotin bago magsimula sa

trabaho.
Pagkalabas ko pa lang ng cabana ay sinalubong na ako ng sariwang hangin. I smiled,
hinawi ang aking buhok at at nagtungo sa site, they were all busy, I immediately saw
Warren on the side, nakapaywang at nakikinig sa sinasabi ng Architect na kausap.

My forehead creased, he looks good in his white dress shirt folded up to his elbow
tucked on his black slacks. A white hard hat is on his head, kita ko ang tangos ng
kanyang ilong dahil nakatagilid siya mula sa pwesto ko.

"Scira!" Michael called and I immediately flashed a smile.

"Hello, good morning!" aniya.

"Good morning din, hope you had a good sleep." I said.

"I did, ikaw? Kumusta ang tulog mo? Is..." he gulped. "is Engr. Warren your boyfriend—"

"Hey, baby." Napatalon ako sa gulat nang may humawak sa siko ko at hinila ako
palapit.

Sumulyap ako at tumaas ang kilay, aawayin na sana pero nagsalita siya.

"Tawag ka ni Vioxx, Architect Pablo." Warren said, smiling nonchalantly.

"O-oh, I see... nasaan siya?"

"Ah, nand'yan lang sa tabi-tabi, hanapin mo lang." He answered.

Arch. Pablo left, sumulyap ako kay Warren na nakaangat ang labi sa ngisi, natatawa.

"Uto-uto..." he muttered kaya siniko ko ang t'yan niya na nagpadaing sa kanya.

"A-aww, Ma'am, bakit?" kunwaring walang alam niyang sabi kaya umirap ako.

"Bitawan mo nga ako," I sneered, umalis pero muli niya akong nahila pabalik.

"What?" I hissed but then, he touched my waist and pulled me slowly towards the side.

Nagtataka pa ako at handa ng mang-away pero nakita ko ang pag-angat niya ng isang
kulay puting hard hat. Our eyes met and he smiled, slowly pushed a few strands of my
hair at the back of my ear.

"You know you can't go to the site without this, ang kulit mo." He said, putting the hard
hat on my head kaya bahagya akong tumungo para mas maayos niya.

I pouted a bit, waited a bit and when he's done, sumulyap ako sa kanya.

"You brought the breakfast?" I asked and he nodded at me, I noticed eye bags below
his eyes kaya tumikhim ako. "na...nakatulog ka naman ng maayos?"

"Yes, I brought the breakfast. You like it?" he asked me instead.

"It's good, may susi ka naman pala sa cabana, bakit...hindi ka pumasok?" I asked
curiously.
He shrugged, inayos ang buhok sa balikat ko.

"You don't want me inside, it makes you uncomfortable, I understand." he muttered.

Kumalabog ang dibdib ko, umawang ang labi para sana magsalita pero tinawag ako ng
team kaya hindi ko na nagawa.

"Excuse," I said, smiled a bit before going to my team.

Nag-briefing kami sandali, inayos ang blue prints sa parte ng isla kung saan kami naka-
assign. Vioxx is talking to me about a certain renovation he wants to be changed,
habang kausap namin ang Architect sa firm niya na si Michael ay narinig ko bigla ang
tawa ni Vioxx.

"Why?" I glanced at him and he smirked, staring at me.

"Kung nakakamatay ang titig, dead on the spot na ako." He said.

"Huh? Why?" I asked but he just grinned, bumaling kung saan kaya sinundan ko ang
tingin niya.

There, I saw Warren sitting on the side, glaring at Vioxx. Tawang-tawa naman si Vioxx
at lumapit sa akin.

"Patay na patay talaga 'yang pinsan ko sa'yo, pagpasensyahan mo na." He said,

laughing.
Napanguso ako, napaharap kay Warren na kumakamot pa sa braso niya at nang
magsalubong ang mata namin ay tinaasan ko siya ng kilay at umirap.

"Architect! Tara, break muna tayo." Anna called kaya sumama ako sa kanila at naupo
sa gilid para saglit na kumain kahit hindi naman ako gutom.

"Ang ganda-ganda talaga sa isla, 'no? Sana lang p'wede tayong sumilip saglit sa may
shipwreck!"

"Kung papayagan," tawa nito. "medyo mahigpit sila eh, kasi tago ang parte na 'yon pero
malay mo naman." Hagikhikan nila roon.

My eyes are fixed at the far left side of me, naroon si Warren, nakatayo. Mukhang may
Makati kaya kinamot niya ulit ang braso at pagkatapos ang kabila naman.

I saw a blonde woman from their firm called his attention, nang mahuli nitong may
kinakamot si Warren ay kinuha nito ang braso at tinignan.

"Uy, Architect." Saglit akong sumulyap kay Anna nang magsalita siya.

"Hmm?" I asked.

"Ang popogi nila, ano? 'Yong kasama mo rin sa table kagabi noong dinner, Architect.
Ang ga-gwapo." Hagikhik niya.

"Kaso may asawa, Anna. Ano ka ba." Jessica laughed and I nodded at that.

"Yeah, they have kids too." I said and smiled.

"Oh, 'yong mga Miranda kaya?" nawala ang ngiti ko roon.

"Sino, si Engr. Vioxx or Warren?" Jessica asked and Anna giggled.

"Kilala ko na 'yan si Engr. Warren noon kasi may project kasama si Architect. Mabait
'yan, pogi pa. Si Engr. Vioxx hindi ko sure kung may jowa na pero ang alam ko ngayon
si Engr. Warren, walang—"

"Mayroon," I said coldly and they stopped.

"Ay, weh?" Anna muttered, "mayroon, Architect?"

My eyes fixed on Warren, bukod sa babaeng blonde ang buhok ay may isa pang
dumating na nakitingin pa sa magkabilang braso niya.

Ay, wow, famous?

Kumunot pang lalo ang noo ko. I saw the other woman said something, pointing at the
cabana nearby, natawa pa ang isa roon at nakita ko ang pagtawa ni Warren doon at
pag-iling.

Putang...

"Wala naman akong nakikita at nababalitaan na may girlfriend na si Engineer—" Anna

said but suddenly gasped noong malakas kong tinusok ang tinidor sa puto na kinakain
ko.
Humigpit ang hawak ko sa tinidor, halos masira na ang puto habang mariing nakatitig
sa tumitingin sa braso niya.

"U-uh, m-may girlfriend nga ata si Engineer..." Anna laughed awkwardly pero hindi ko
pinansin at umigting ang panga ko sa irita.

"O-oo nga, eh. H-hanap na lang tayo ibang boys. U-uhm, Architect, e-excuse me!"
Jessica muttered, dala ang mga styro ay naghilahan paalis sa pwesto sa tabi ko.

"Pinapak daw ng lamok si Engr. Miranda," narinig kong tawanan malapit sa akin kaya
bumaling ako roon.

"Ay, 'te, kung ako lang din ang lamok! Papakin ko talaga, ang sarap!" asaran pa nila
roon.

I gritted my teeth, nang makitang balak na rin nila makiusyoso roon ay kinuha ko ang
tinidor, galit na tumayo at nagmartsa palapit sa kanila.

"Bitaw." Mariin kong sabi at napatalon paalis ang dalawa.

"Who are you—" tinaas ko ng pa-simple ang tinidor na hawak at napaatras sila.

"Ma'am—" I glared at Warren and he just blinked at me.

Hindi na ako nagsalita, iritadong hinila siya paalis sa kumpulan doon at nagpadala lang
siya. We reached the cabana where we're staying, nilingon ko siya at naabutang
nakangisi na kaagad na naglaho nang makita ko.
"Ngisi-ngisi ka, r'yan?!" I exclaimed.

"I...don't." he smiled innocently kaya umirap ako.

Humarap ako sa kanya, inabot ang braso niya at sumimangot nang makitang marami
siyang kagat ng lamok. I raised my hand and he cursed.

"F-fuck, Ma'am! H'wag ganyan!" he exclaimed at nagitla ako nang matantong hawak ko
pa rin ang tinidor.

He immediately took it from my hand and I pouted, nang makuha niya iyon ay tinulak ko
siya paupo sa rattan bench kung saan siya natulog kagabi bago pumasok sa cabana.

I took my ointment for mosquito bites, nang labasin ko ay naabutan ko siyang nangingiti
habang hawak ang tinidor na gamit ko kanina kaya umirap ako sa hangin.

"Baka gusto mo itusok ko sa'yo 'yang tinidor." I frowned and he lowered the pork,
chuckling a bit and stared at me.

"No, Mars. Naalala ko lang 'yong little mermaid, ginawa niya 'tong suklay, eh." He said
in a soft voice kaya sinipa ko ang paa niya.

"Gago, natuluyan ka na siguro." I hissed. Humalakhak siya at binaba ang tinidor, nang
tumabi ako sa kanya at hinila ang braso niya para tignan ang kagat ng lamok.

"Kailan pa 'to?" I asked, binuksan ang ointment para lagyan ang kagat.

"Last night," he said. "it's itchy, kanina pa nga ako nagkakamot—"

"Edi sana sinabi mo sa akin," I said, "hindi 'yong ibang babae pa ang sasabihan—"

"I didn't tell them about these, Ma'am." He chuckled kaya nag-angat ako ng tingin.

"Lelang mo, I saw you with that blondie! T'saka 'yong isa?" I exclaimed and his lip
twitched.

Nabakas ko ang pagkaaliw sa mga mata niya, saglit na hinawi ang magulong buhok at
nagtago ng ngiti.

"Oh, she saw me scratching my arm. Nagtanong lang, promise, wala akong
pinagsabihan. Narinig nila siguro lang." He explained himself to me kaya mas
sumimangot ako.

"Tinuturo pa 'yong kwarto niya?" I sneered and frowned at him.

"Ano 'yon, kunwari maglalagay ng ointment tapos sunod kainan ng tahong?!" I

exclaimed.

His laughter roared, halos magliparan na ang mga ibon palayo dahil sa lutong ng
halakhak niya.

"What the fuck..." he said and laughed again. "Ma'am, what are you..."

"Asus, ganyan ang mga galawan! Dalawa pa sila, ah? Ano 'yon, 'yong isa baked tapos
isa may Sprite? Bilasa na 'yon, Augustine! Ang landi mo naman kung—"
"I love you, Scira." He suddenly said and I froze.

I glared at him, he chuckled and stared at me.

"I love you, okay?" he smiled, namumula pa. "they asked me if I wanted to put some
ointment, and yes, sa cabin but I said no."

"At bakit?" I raised my brow.

"I'm never a cheater, Ma'am. Never." He said and my forehead creased.

"Bakit ka magiging cheater?" I raised my brow.

"S'yempre, I love you and—"

"Walang tayo, Augustine." I muttered and he froze.

Nakita ko ang hirap niyang paglunok, namumutla na. "Y-yeah, I know, I just..."

"Sana sinabi mong pinapapak ka na ng lamok dito, I could have let you in." Nguso ko at
kinuha ang isang braso niya para lagyan ang namumula niyang mga kagat.

"You're uncomfortable, ayos lang ako rito. I'll go in if you're okay with it. I won't force
myself." He answered me, ramdam na ramdam ko ang titig niya, kumakalabog ang
dibdib ko pero nanatili akong nakatingin sa kanyang braso.

"Sobrang kati pa?" I asked and glanced at him.

"Medyo," he smiled faintly. "but I'm okay, I guess. Ngayon lang kasi siguro na-enjoy ng
lamok na magpakabusog kasi ako ang nand'yan."

"At bakit?" I raised my brow.

"Duh, sis, ang sarap ko kaya!" ngumisi siya, itinaas ang kamay at napamura ako nang
pumilantik ang kamay.

Hinampas ko ang braso niya sa kalokohan pero humalakhak lang siya at sinubukang
umiwas.

"Pinapakita mo kasi! Kaya pinagkakaguluhan 'yang kagat ng lamok!" I exclaimed,

kinurot ang baywang niya.

"I don't!" he laughed. "nakikita lang talaga kasi sa braso—"

"Famous na famous ang lamok, ano 'yan, Taylor Swift?" I hissed and he chuckled more,
hinuhuli ang kamay ko na kumukurot sa kanya.

"Famous lang talaga kasi famous ako, Ma'am." He grinned at me. "pero kahit famous
ako, ikaw pa rin ang bibi ko."

My cheeks flushed, mas kinurot ko siya kaya mas natawa siya at hinuli ako.

"I'm serious!" he said and I frowned.

"Pag-uusapan talaga 'yong kagat, ang swerte kaya ng lamok na makagat ako." He
chuckled. "Wait...are you jealous with the girls?" he smiled teasingly.

Tumalim ang tingin ko sa kanya. "Sa ganda kong 'to, pagseselosan ko sila? Para sa'yo?
Nge? Sure ka?"

He licked his lip, looking so amused at me. "Oh, okay then, pagkakalat ko pa na
pinapak ako ng lamok and I need more ointment—"

I pulled his nape down and immediately bit the skin on his neck.

I felt him froze, hindi siya nakapag-react kaya mas kinagat ko ang balat sa may leeg
niya.

I sucked his skin, playfully licking it and when I'm done marking my territory, I moved
away, looking at his reddish love bite proudly.

"What..." his cheeks flushed, nanlalaki ang mata niya na tila mahihimatay na sa ginawa
ko.

Binuksan ko pa ang isang butones ng dress shirt niya, I lowered his collar more and
made sure the hickey can be seen.

Tulala siya sa akin at nakaawang pa ang bibig kaya tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko.

"There..." I smiled wickedly, glancing at him playfully and tapped his chest. "go tell your
girls a mosquito bit you. A very...big and beautiful one."
Kabanata 22

I am smiling wickedly until I saw Warren losing his color. My eyes widen nang biglang
napasandal siya sa bench at napapikit.

"W-what the...Mars!" I exclaimed.

"T-tubig..." he muttered and I gasped, nagpa-panic na nagmamadaling pumasok ako sa

cabana at kumuha ng isang basong tubig.

Halos mangalahati pa iyon dahil sa nabubuhos sa pagmamadali ko.

"Here!" I exclaimed nang maabutan ko siyang napapahawak pa sa kanyang dibdib.

"I..."

"Drink, Augustine!" I exclaimed and he sat slowly, inalalayan ko siyang umayos at

uminom.

I watched him quietly, my heart thumping faster.

"W-what happen? Are you okay? Should I ask for the medic?" I panicked, cupping his
cheek so I could see his face.

"I...need to go to the hospital," he said weakly.

"Huh?!" mas kumalabog ang puso ko.

I touched his hand, ready to pull his hand up when he pulled me back on the seat.

Napasalampak ako at napasulyap sa kanya. Nahuli ko siyang nakatitig na may tagong

ngiti.

"What?" I asked. "let's go! We should ask around to help you--"

"I'm sick," he said, his lips protruding. Hinuli niya ang kamay ko at inilagay sa leeg niya.
"Ma'am, malala na ata."

"Huh?" natakot ako. "shit! I shouldn't have let you sleep here! Anong nararamdaman
mo--"

"Na-dengue ata ako." He said and bit his lip.

I froze, natulala ako sa kanya at unti-unting tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya.

"Malaki kasi ang kumagat sa aking lamok--" sa irita ko ay ni-noohan ko siya.

"Gago!" I exclaimed and he touched his forehead.

"Ma'am--"

"Fuck you, Augustine! H'wag mo ako kausapin!" I exclaimed, enraged.

He looks shocked and immediately sorry, tumikhim siya, nang tumayo ako ay humawak
siya sa pulsuhan ko at tumayo pero hinila ko ang kamay ko at tumitig sa kanya.

"Ma'am--"

"Hindi nakakatawa!" I exclaimed. "Akala mo ba hindi ako nag-aalala! I am panicking!

Paano kung totoo?! Edi, sinisi ko ang sarili ko na rito kita pinatulog!"

I keep on whining when he suddenly pulled me for a hug.

Kumalabog ang puso ko. Hinampas ko ang dibdib niya pero mas dumiin ang yakap niya
sa akin.

"Sorry, Ma'am..." he said lowly, "I was just kidding."

"G-gago..." I muttered, nangingilid pa ang luha at pinalo siya. "akala mo nakakatuwa?!"

"No, sshh..." he muttered soothingly and touched my hair, "sorry, Scira. I won't do it
again. I just thought of teasing you."

"H-hindi nakakatuwa..." I whispered and sobbed, tumulo na ang luha ko at paulit-ulit

siyang hinampas. "hindi nakakatuwa!"

He sighed, suminghap ako at humikbi roon.

"W-why are you always lying to me?" pagod kong bulong sa kanya.
He cursed lowly, pulling me more to his body when I tried pushing him away from me.

I felt his lips on my hair and I sobbed more, tinulak ko siya at mas humigpit ang yakap
niya sa akin.

"Please, hear me..." he whispered and hugged me more.

"H-how can I hear you when you keep on lying to me?" puno ng hinanakit kong sabi.

I tried pushing him but he remained stiff and strong. I pulled his dress shirt but he
wouldn't bulge so I got no choice but just to grip it tightly.

"I'm sorry..." he whispered. "I am so sorry, Scira."

"I-I hate you..."

"I hate myself either," he whispered painfully on my ear. "I hate myself for doing that to
you."

Kinagat ko ang labi at hinampas ang likod niya.

"I-I trusted you, Warren! I trusted you...yet you lied to me. You keep on lying to me!"

"I-it was never my intention, h-hindi ko ginustong gawin iyon. I was frame--"
"Lies are lies, no matter how good the reason behind it is." I said painfully and pushed
him.

He let me go, I saw how pain filled his eyes while looking at me.

"Scira," he breathe. "I n-never had the chance to see you, I-I wanted to explain my side
now."

"You w-weren't there when I needed you the most, Augustine!" I cried. "I fought with
Mom! My Lolo died! L-lumayas ako para sa'yo! Handa akong umalis para sa'yo but you
weren't there when I needed you! Iniwan mo ako, Augustine!"

I broke down, paulit-ulit ko siyang hinampas at hindi siya lumaban. I saw him lowered
his head, accepting everything I am doing to him.

I saw how tears fell on his cheek, mabuti na lang at walang tao kaya walang hiya-hiya
akong naglabas ng sama ng loob.

"M-minahal kita p-pero iniwan mo rin ako!" I exclaimed.

"I-I'm sorry..." he whispered lowly.

I broke down, sa sobrang iyak at panghihina ay napaupo ako sa lapag.

He immediately helped me, tumungo ako at tinakpan ang mukha ko, humihikbi. I felt
him touching my arms to calm me down.

"I-I'm sorry, Ma'am. Calm down, please." He whispered, his broken voice filled my ear.
"I-I hate you...I hate your lies, I hate myself from falling for you." I cried miserably. "S-
sana, sana hindi na lang kita nakilala para hindi ako nasaktan ng ganito."

Mas napaiyak ako nang yumakap siya sa akin. He cuddled me like a kid while I am
sobbing my heart out, he calmed me by giving me his warmth.

"I-I wish you never met me too," he whispered. "p-para hindi ka na nasasaktan ng
ganito."

I bit my lip and covered my face more, ilang sandali pa ay naramdaman ko ang
pagbuhat niya sa akin sa bisig niya kaya hindi na ako nakaalma.

I let him carried me on the bed inside the cabana while I'm sobbing and crying non-stop.

"Calm down," he whispered and touched my hair, naramdaman ko ang marahang

paghila niya ng kamay paalis sa mukha ko.

I glanced at him and saw his blood shot eyes, nakita ko ang pagkabigo niya ng makita
ang luhang umagos sa pisngi ko.

I saw how hard it is for him to dry it, nabakas ko ang sakit sa mga mata niya roon.

"Wala naman akong ginagawa palagi kung hindi paiyakin ka," he said while staring at
me. "stop crying, Scira. I...don't deserve your tears."

When I saw his tear fell, sumakit ang dibdib ko kaya mabilis akong tumalikod sa kanya,
hinila ang comforter para itago ang mukha ko.
"L-leave." I said coldly and hid myself.

"S-Scira..."

"I said leave!" I exclaimed angrily.

I heard his sigh, hindi na siya lumaban pa at naramdaman ang pagtayo niya mula sa
gilid ng kama.

"I'm sorry," he muttered. "I'll lock the door so you'll be safe here, rest for now. Ako na
ang bahala sa site."

Hindi na ako umimik, mas nagtago sa comforter at nang marinig ang pagsara ng
pintuan ay siya ring pagbuhos ng panibagong luha.

Siguro sa sobrang pagod at iyak ay nakatulog ako. Halos mag-aalas-otso ng gabi na

ako nagising at kaagad na umupo.

My eyes hurt a lot. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at bumaling sa tabi nang mapansing may
nakapatong sa side table.

I took it and realized it was a plain red flower. Medyo maliit siya at maraming bulaklak
sa sanga kaya ngumuso ako.

I saw a note attached from it kaya kinuha ko iyon at binasa.

Hi, Ma'am. I hope you're fine now. Your dinner is at the table, kain ka lang kapag
nagugutom ka. Don't worry, I won't disturb you. I am sorry for what happened. It's my
fault.

Don't cry anymore, I don't deserve those tears.

I sighed, tinanggal ang comforter sa katawan bago pumunta sa kusina.

I saw plates of food there, mainit pa at parang kalalagay. Naupo ako pagkatapos
buksan ang ilaw at tahimik na kumain.

Nagbabad ako sa shower at nang matapos maglinis ng katawan ay bumalik sa kama

para humiga. I played with my phone first, nakipag-text sa mga pinsan hanggang sa
lumalim na ang gabi.

Where is he now? Is he staying somewhere?

Sumulyap ako sa orasan at napansing eleven na ng gabi. I took my phone and fixed my
night dress before opening the door to go outside.

Lumabas ako at kaagad na natigilan nang makita si Warren na nakasandal sa rattan

bench.

He's wearing a black shirt and khaki pants, magulo at bagsak ang buhok sa kanyang
noo at nakapikit ang mata.

His arms are crossed on his chest, bumagsak ang ulo niya sa antok pero aangat ulit
kapag maaalimpungatan.
My heart tugged painfully so I sighed and walked towards him.

"Warren," I called. Hindi siya gumalaw kaya inangat ko ang kamay para alugin siya.

"Warren, wake up." I said and that's when he stirred.

Gulat pa siya at antok na nag-angat ng tingin at nang makita ako ay napaayos ng upo.

"Ma'am?" he called.

I sighed, "sana kumatok ka. You can't sleep here anymore, baka papakin ka na naman
ng lamok. Malamig din ngayong gabi."

"I...I don't want to disturb you," he said softly. "Ayos lang na rito ako matulog,
komportable naman t'saka kasya ako."

"Augustine," I sighed. "you can't sleep here, I know. You have bags under your eyes
and--"

"I don't want you to feel uncomfortable," he said and sighed and looked at him softly.

"I am not uncomfortable, Warren." I insisted.

"I really can sleep here," he convinced me, smiling a bit. "you should rest inside and--"
"Magagalit ako kapag hindi ka pumasok." I threatened and he stopped at that.

"But Scira--"

"Ako na nagsasabi, ayos lang." I said and offered him my palm. "Tara na, pumasok ka
na."

He was hesitant at first, nag-aalangan pa kung tatanggapin ang kamay ko pero sa huli
ay humawak din doon.

I pulled him inside, I almost smiled when I realized I looked tiny while dragging the large
man inside the cabana.

Sa pagpasok ay nakita ko ang paggalaw ni Warren ng ulo niya na tila nag-s-stretch at

nang bitawan ko siya ay doon ko lang natantong naka-night dress ako at walang bra
kaya bakat ang boobs ko.

I almost panicked, biglang nahihiya pero nang walang sinabing kahit ano si Warren
kahit nahuli ko ang tingin niya na napasulyap sa damit ko para punahin ako ay kumalma
na lang at unti-unting nawala ang hiya.

Of course, it's Warren. He'll let me do what I want, he'll let me wear what I want.

He respects me. He won't do anything bad even if I'm wearing this.

"Dito na lang ako sa lapag," he said and pointed the floor.

I nodded slowly, naupo ako sa gilid at pinagmasdan siyang inaayos ang sapin sa lapag
kung saan siya hihiga.

"A-ayos ka lang d'yan?" I asked. "we can share the bed if--"

"This is just too much, Ma'am." He smiled at me. "I won't ask for more. Thank you."

My heart felt at peace, mahina akong tumango sa kanya, nag-abot ng unan at nakita ko
ang ngiti niya nang tanggapin iyon.

I lay back on the bed, tumalikod mula sa pwesto niya at ipinikit ang mata. I can feel his
movements, inaayos ang higaan at maya-maya pa ay napansin ko ang pag-dim ng
kwarto.

"Are you sleeping?" he suddenly asked and I didn't answer him. He sighed and spoke
again.

"Thank you, Scira." He said. "I feel comfortable sleeping now. Good night. I love you."

My heart tugged painfully, humigpit ang kapit ko sa comforter. Malakas ang kalabog ng
puso at hindi na umimik.

The silence filled us, siguro dahil mahaba ang tulog ko ay hindi man lang ako dinalaw
ng antok. It is nearly one now but I still couldn't sleep a wink.

"N-no, Mom." I froze when I heard his voice. "N-no, no, p-please, don't leave me."

My throat dried up when I heard that, kumalabog ang puso ko roon.

"P-please, no..." he said faintly.

Umikot ako sa kama, sumilip sa lapag at may humaplos na kung ano sa puso ko nang
makitang kunot ang kanyang noo at hindi komportable sa kama.

I bit my lip when I saw him, I noticed the tear on his cheek, medyo malalim ang
paghinga, kunot na kunot ang noo.

"H'wag..." he whispered.

I gulped, nakakuyom ang kamay niya roon at bigla kong naalala ang turo ng Daddy
kapag ganoon.

He said, way back, when Mommy is having nightmares, he'd just take her hand and
whispers everything's gonna be fine.

Malapit sa akin ang kanyang kamay kaya suminghap ako, kumuha ng sapat na lakas ng
loob bago abutin iyon.

I slowly held it, kuyom ang kamay niya pero marahang isiniksik ko ang daliri roon para
mahawakan ang palad niya.

"Tin..." marahang tawag ko.

His forehead creased more and I bit my lip, nang makuha ko ang kamay niya at
masiksik ang akin ay pinagsaklop ko ang palad namin.
"Sshh," I hushed him. "I'm here, Warren."

"D-don't leave...no, don't." he muttered, mas bumilis ang paghinga.

I gulped, slowly taking his hand more and kissing his knuckles.

"Calm down," I whispered.

I kissed it again and he slowly calmed down. I saw how his breath slowly returned to
normal, unti-unting nawala ang kunot ng kanyang noo at humigpit ang hawak sa kamay
ko.

I smiled at that, nakita ko ang paglambot ng mukha niya, mukhang naging maayos na
kaya napabuntong-hininga ako.

I decided to let go of his hand when he gripped it, napatili ako nang mahila ako palapit
sa kanya kaya bumagsak ako.

"Fuck!" I gasped when I fell on his chest. Nanlaki ang mata ko nang magtama ang ilong
namin at sobrang lapit na ng mukha.

I gulped when I saw how his eyes opened. Halos mabingi ako sa lakas ng kalabog ng
puso sa kaba na hindi maintindihan.

"Scira?" he called my name softly. "ma'am, what are..."

"Y-you're having a nightmare." I whispered.

Napalunok ako, ramdam na ramdam ko ang init ng katawan niya sa akin kaya halos
magsitayuan ang buhok ko.

His eyes felt like a magnet watching me, attracting me. His nose touched mine again
and I gulped miserably.

I felt how his breath deepened, gulping, he watched me closer and licked his lower lip.

I didn't know what got me that I found myself lowering my head and pressing my lips
with his.

He was stunned, nagsalubong pa ang mga mata namin habang magkalapit. He looks
confused yet the attraction on his eyes is more powerful than his confusion.

I felt disappointed when he didn't react. Inilayo ko ang labi sa kanya.

"S-sorry, I..." I said, was about to go up when he touched my nape and pulled me closer
to his lips.

Just one touch and I got drowned again. Lumalim ang paghinga ko, kaagad akong
gumanti ng halik sa kanya at humawak pa siyang lalo sa batok ko.

His hand fell on my waist, gripping it tighter while kissing me properly.

"Open your lips, baby." He said and I did, without hesitation.

I opened my mouth and french kissed him back, malalim ang paghinga ko habang
gumaganti sa kanya.

The heat spread like wildfire, kumakalat sa sistema ko ng walang patawad. I moved my
body and felt his bulge on my stomach.

Mas lumalim ang paghinga ko nang masalubong ang mata niya, kumikislap sa kabila ng
dim na ilaw.

"S-sir..." I whispered and he licked his lip, glancing at me.

"This is..." I cut him off by kissing his lips.

"Take me," I whispered and licked his lower lip sensually. "please, take me, Augustine."

That was his last shot of self-control, he kissed me harshly on the lips instantly.

I felt his hand on my night dress, slowly circling it when he found my boob. Napadaing
ako nang haplusin niya iyong lalo.

"F-fuck, Ma'am." He cursed hardly. "Fuck, self-control."

He pushed me a bit kaya napahiga ako sa higaan niya. One move and he's already
above me, towering me.
I gulped when our eyes met, nangingintab pa ang mata niya sa luha dahil sa panaginip
pero mas nangingibabaw ang pagnanasa roon.

"Scira," he breathe harshly, licking his lips. "are you sure—"

"A-ayaw mo ba?" I asked in a small voice and he cursed, mas dumikit ang kanyang
katawan sa akin.

"Of course, I want you..." he said in a low voice. "I always wanted you, Scira. Always."

My heart thumped, I licked my lower lip and stared at him.

"W-Warren," I gasped, lifting my hand on his nape to caress it softly. "please, please,
make love to me."

"Fuck," he cursed and I gasped when he touched my waist. "hold on tight, I'll carry you."

I embraced his nape and he pulled me up, carrying me. Isang galaw ay bumagsak na
kami sa kama, our eyes met again and our lips touched for the briefest instance before
his lips fell on my neck.

I can feel the sensual, slow kisses he's giving me. Marahas akong napalunok at
napahalinghing nang maramdaman siyang lalo sa tiyan ko.

He's growing bigger and bigger each time, the rough material of his pants touching my
lower part. I can feel his caress on my legs, lifting my night dress until I felt him on my
bare skin.
My lips quivered when he lowered my dress, dahil walang suot na panloob ay nahuli ko
ang mariing titig niya sa dibdib ko.

He touched my peaks and my breathing labored, nagkatinginan kaming dalawa kaya

bahagya akong napaupo sa kama.

"Hands up, baby." He said sensually and I obliged. He removed my dress, leaving me
only with my undies.

I gasped when he knelt in between my legs, pulling his shirt from his back before
throwing it somewhere. I saw how his body flexed, his muscles move and I realized how
his body became more prominent than the last time I saw it.

His muscles are on the right place, I licked my lip when I saw his abdomen.

"P-pahawak..." I said, touching his abs a bit.

I saw his amused eyes, napanguso ako roon nang mahuli niya ang kamay ko at
marahang dalhin sa kanyang labi.

His eyes are burning with desire and he lowered his head and gave me another deep
kiss. The kiss felt like it was us making up for the lost years, ramdam na ramdam ko ang
kasabikan sa kanyang bawat halik.

He touched my bare skin, his wet kisses went down on my neck down the gap in
between my chest.

My head is elevated because of the pillow that I can see how his tongue moved on my
breast. His tongue flicked on it, sensually and slowly.
Mas lumalim ang paghinga ko at bumaba ang kamay sa kanyang batok. He sucked my
breast and touched the other, playing it with his thumb and forefinger.

I felt like convulsing with that simple move, naghanap ang isang kamay ko at marahang
hinaplos ang kanyang pants. He's fully grown that I felt his boner.

"Hmm..." I hummed.

"You like this?" he whispered sensually and I gasped when his finger slipped on my
undies.

"Y-yes..." I gasped and nodded. "y-yes, I like it very much."

His smile widened, nagkatinginan kami at napasinghap ako nang bumaba siya mula sa
dibdib ko. His face fell on my lower part, nanlaki ang mata ko nang bumaba ang kamay
niya roon at mas napadaing nang paraanin niya roon ang daliri.

"T-Tintin!" I exclaimed.

He lifted his head so he can see me, halos mapamura naman ako sa dilim ng tingin
niya. His hair is disheveled, nakabagsak ang buhok sa kanyang noo at bahagyang
nakaawang ang labi.

"Yes, Ma'am?" he asked in a hoarse voice.

"U-uh, more pa..." I said in a small voice.

His lip twitched, napangisi siya roon at mas napalunok ako nang binasa niya ang labi.

"I wanted to fuck you with my tongue," he said languidly and I nodded.

"T-then, do it..." I whispered. "fuck me, Warren."

His jaw clenched and I gasped when he pulled my undies down and threw it
somewhere. Nanlaki ang mata ko nang mag-face to face na sila ng ano ko kaya ikinipot
ko ang binti.

"No," he parted it again at mas nag-init ang pisngi ko.

"W-Warren, that's..." namula ako nang sumulyap siya sa akin. "d-don't stare at it much,
I-I'm shy..."

His lip twitched, napangiti siya roon, biglang umangat at muling humalik sa labi ko at sa
pisngi.

"I love you, Ma'am. Watch how I eat you." He said and I gasped, nawawala na ata
talaga sa sarili sa biglaan niyang pagbaba sa parte ko.

I watched he parted my legs more and I bit my lip hardly when I saw how he kissed my
skin. Nagdedeliryo na ata ako, hindi mapalagay nang biglang maramdaman ang labi
niya sa akin.

The feeling is too foreign, I made out with him before but that's it, I never felt him kiss
me down there kaya bago sa akin ang pakiramdam.
My toes curled, a soft moan escaped my lips when I felt his tongue on my feminity,
slowly, I felt his finger circling on my sensitive bud, my eyes shut and I moved my hips
against his face.

"You're fucking wet," he said sensually.

"Tintin," I called.

"Hmm?" his breath touched my skin kaya mas hindi ako mapakili. "open your eyes,
baby, watch me eat you."

I did, nagsalubong ang mata namin at napasinghap ako nang maramdaman siya. He
inserted a digit while fucking my core with his tongue, his eyes are fixed on me.

He looks like a wild animal in between my parted legs, gone was the shy and soft boy
Warren.

"You taste good, fuck..." he cursed under his breath and moved a bit. "baby, hand me a
pillow."

Nanginginig man ang kamay, I managed to get a pillow beside me and gave it to him.

He cursed, put the pillow below my waist until my lower body is elevated.

I saw him cocked his head, glanced at my eyes and smirked.

"Just let it go if you feel like releasing it, hmm? Baby?"

"A-ang?" I asked, confused.

"You see..." he smiled at me and I didn't know what else to do when he licked me more
and moved his finger in and out of me slowly.

It was painful at first but he did his best to adjust me and made me feel comfortable. He
entered another digit and moved his fingers inside, I can feel his fingers adjusting me,
dumikit na ang dulo nito sa balat ko at hindi na naman ako mapakali.

A moment later, I can feel something on my stomach. My knees curled, I moved my

waist more against his face and purred.

"T-Tin, may..."

"Let it out," he whispered sensually.

"S-shit..." I cursed when I reached my release. I felt exhausted, bumagsak ang braso ko
mula sa batok niya at naipikit ang mata.

He gripped my legs, mariing kinagat ko ang labi habang naghihintay sa kanyang

matapos sa ginagawa.

"Hey, baby..." I opened my eyes when I felt his hand on my cheek.

"Hmm?" I hummed.
"Tired?" he teased and my lips protruded, pinalo ko ang braso niya kaya natawa siya sa
akin.

"Lelang mo, tired." I scoffed. "Baka kamo ikaw ang pagod."

"I am not," his forehead creased. "I still have stamina, my baby."

"Oh, if I know..." humalakhak ako. "baka tumatanda ka na, Tin. You're thirty now, right?"

He froze, his lip thinned. Nang samaan niya ako ng tingin ay napahagalpak ako ng
tawa.

"I am not!" he exclaimed in determination. "I am strong as a carabao, Valderama."

"Ows?" my lips lifted, "baka scam 'yan, Mars?"

"Baka gusto mong pakitaan pa kita?" he hissed and I burst out laughing.

Tuwang-tuwa ako sa pang-aasar sa kanya pero nawala ang halakhak ko nang tumungo
siya at walang sabing sinakop ang labi ko.

It was as if I forgot everything again, the fire lit again that I found myself kissing his back
and grinding my body against his.

I found myself sitting on the bed, helping him get rid of his pants and when I met his
friend down there, I gulped.
Warren glanced at me and blinked.

"W-what?" he asked, blushing.

"Will...it fit?" I asked and his laugh bombarded.

Humaba ang nguso ko, pinalo-palo ko siya pero tinulak niya lang ako pabalik sa kama
at dinaginan.

"I'll be gentle, hmm?" he hummed, amusement is playing on his eyes.

"Will it hurt?" I asked softly and he licked his lip, nodding a bit.

"I'll do my best not to hurt you, hmm?" he hummed and I nodded at him, smiling.

"O-okay..."

He stared at my eyes, cupping my cheek.

"I love you," he muttered while staring at my eyes. "are you really sure we'll do it?"

I bit my lip.

"If...we'll do it, wala nang bawian." Aniya kaya tumango ako at ngumiti.
"I'm sure of this," I said firmly and he lowered his lips and kissed me again.

It happens so fast, it was painful yet the pain subsided and was replaced by pleasure
the moment he fasten his pace. I found myself hugging his nape while he's moving in
and out of me.

He's massive and I think I am too small for it that he keeps on cursing on my ear.

"You're tight, fuck..." he whispered. "you taste so good, Ma'am."

"Hmm," I just hummed and bit her earlobe.

"Y-you taste good too," I answered back.

He touched my waist and pumped inside me more, rinig na rinig ko ang langitngit ng
kama sa bawat pagtatagpo ng katawan naming dalawa. I am stopping my moans so
hard but it would still escape out of pleasure.

Kapag napapalakas nga ang daing ko ay hahalikan ako ni Augustine para manahimik.

"You're so loud, baby..." he chuckled against my ear.

"S-sorry..." I bit my lip and moaned. "a-ang sarap kasi." I said in a small and shy voice.

He chuckled, touched my waist more and pumped more, halos masira na ata namin ang
kama kaya natakot ako at mabilis na humawak sa kanyang braso.
"W-Warren!" I exclaimed and he stopped.

"Hmm?" he looked at me, disoriented and confused, his sweat is on his forehead.

"B-baka masira natin ang kama?" I said in a small voice.

His jaw clenched, nang gumalaw siya ay napadaing ako at lumangitngit ang kama kaya
napamura siya.

"Fuck it, the furniture needs to be changed too." He cursed under his breath.

Kumapit ako sa batok niya, "m-maybe we should continue this somewhere?" I asked.

"I'll slow down," he said while staring at me.

"No," I whispered. "b-baka masira ang kama, nakakahiya!"

He suddenly chuckled, he licked his lower lip and nodded at me.

"Alright, Ma'am, as you wish." He said, pulled me up with our bodies still connected and
pushed me on the wall.

My eyes widen, mas iniyakap ko ang hita sa baywang niya at nagpantay ang mata
namin.

"Hug me, baby. I'll fuck you hard, standing." He smirked and I purred when he pushed
himself more while carrying me, my back against the wall.
Warren cleaned me after, pagod na pagod ako at halos pikit na ang mata nang mahiga
sa kama. It's nearly three in the morning!

"Hey, baby, wear this." He muttered and I opened my eyes and saw him holding a shirt.

I know it was his, mabilis akong naupo at tumulong na isuot at nang komportable na ako
ay muling humiga sa kama.

Warren fixed the comforter covering my body and sat beside me, naramdaman ko ang
haplos niya sa buhok ko at ang halik niya sa noo ko.

"Can I sleep beside you?" he asked softly and I nodded.

"Sure," bulong ko at naramdaman ko ang paghiga niya sa tabi ko at ang pag-angat niya
sa ulo ko.

He cuddled me, sumiksik ako sa dibdib niya at ramdam ko ang paghalik niya sa ulo ko.

"I...never wanted to do that, Scira." He suddenly muttered and I froze.

Hindi ako nakasagot kaagad at mariing ipinikit ang mata.

"I'm basically an orphan," he whispered. "my parents died, wala naman akong ibang
pamilya kung hindi si Vioxx."

I remained quiet, nakukuha na ang sinasabi niya.

"I..." he sighed. "noong nawala ang mga magulang ko, the Mirandas took me in. I lived
in their house until I finished studying, umalis lang ako noong kaya ko ng tumayo sa
sariling paa ko."

"I worked hard and got in sa firm nila, it wasn't mine, it was theirs. Nagtatrabaho lang
ako, kumikita, nag-iipon para mabuhay ko ang sarili ko. My father has his stocks there
before he died and it was passed down to me, his only son kaya nakasama na rin ako
sa board of directors." He told me. "Then, everything's good but Miranda firm had a
problem with Vioxx."

Naimulat ko ang mata ko at nanahimik, I can feel my heart aching. Lumunok ako at
hindi umimik.

"Vioxx wanted out, he wanted to go on his own, started his small and own firm. He's the
only son, nagkaalitan sila ni Tita Angelita, Mommy niya. His Mom is controlling him so
he wanted out and he did, umalis siya. He's one of the most competent Engineers from
their firm that it became a big lost to the company.

"One by one, Miranda firm lost their competent Architects and Engineers, nagsilipatan
sa kompanyang sinimulan ni Vioxx. I am his cousin so, I wanted to go with him. Ayoko
rin naman sa main firm noon dahil masyado nang nagigipit ang mga empleyado. I
wanted out too but my cousin, Vioxx, asked me to stay for at least months to check on
what's happening inside the main branch so I stayed. Tita Angelita is a cunning woman,
ayaw niya ng nahihigitan siya but I didn't know it at first, one time, she asked me what
am I doing in your firm."

I felt like my chest is squeezing, I closed my eyes tightly.

"And I told her the truth, that I am pursuing you. That I am courting you. I thought it was
a harmless question that when she asked me to pass something to someone she knows
in your firm, I obliged. May mga kaibigan daw siya roon at busy siya kaya ako ang
pinabibigay. It's my nature not to be nosy about other people's business. Isa pa, Tita
Angelita is almost my second mother, hindi man siya sobrang lapit sa akin ay hinayaan
niya akong makitira sa kanila so, may utang na loob ako. Hindi ko naman naisip na
ganoon, may sasalubong sa akin sa firm niyo, magtatanong ko may binigay daw ba ang
Tita and I am giving it to them."

He sighed, mas humigpit ang yakap sa akin. "I-I have no idea, I was a fool, Scira. I-I
didn't expect Tita would fool me into doing things like that without my knowledge."

Tears fell on my cheek, nanatili akong nakapikit at hindi siya sinasagot.

"I-I never expected she would fool me, I treated her as my second mother and she..."
his voice broke. "I-I'm so sorry, baby, I-I cannot do anything, h-huli ko nang nalaman na
ganoon and when I did, wala na akong maiharap na pagmumukha sa'yo."

"E-even if I explained my side, I still did it. Hindi ko man ginusto, ako pa rin ang may
gawa, ako pa rin ang nagbigay." He whispered. "It is still my fault, unknowingly, I fooled
you. I was worried at you being stress at work pero ako pala ang may kagagawan. I
promised you things like that but I ended up breaking it."

Hindi ako nakasagot, patuloy na tumutulo ang luha ko pero hindi makagalaw.

"If only I checked it first, kung hindi ako masyadong nagtiwala, kung mas naging mas
matalino ako, edi sana..." his voice broke. "s-sana nasa akin ka pa, s-sana hindi kita
nasaktan, sana hindi ka umiiyak."

"You fought with your parents, you lost your grandparents pero wala akong nagawa,
wala naman akong mukhang maihaharap sa'yo, manloloko naman ako." He blamed
himself while sobbing and hugging me.
"I wanted to explain my side, I wanted to pursue you pero ayokong idagdag mo pa ako
sa iisipin mo," he whispered. "b-but now? I don't know, mahal na mahal pa rin kita. Ang
kapal ng mukha kong magpaliwanag at iyakan ka ng ganito p-pero ikaw lang ang gusto
ko. You're my home, Scira. I feel so lost when you're gone."

Humigpit ang hawak ko sa shirt niya at sumubsob pang lalo sa kanyang dibdib.

"Mahal na mahal kita," he whispered.

"I-I will wait for you, I will pursue you non-stop just to prove my love." He sighed. "unless
you wanted me out, I will respect it."

Hindi ko alam kung paano ako nakatulog pagtapos ng gabing iyon. It was just so fast, I
just let him in so he could rest well but we ended up making out and having steamy sex.

I mean, I wanted it too but it was so sudden, hearing the truth from his mouth too. I don't
know.

Isa pa, I wonder if it's true? Baka...baka nagsisinungaling na naman siya sa rason niya
para muling mapalapit?

At ang bobo ko pala talaga, kung maniniwala ako at muling masasaktan, paano na?

Kaya ko pa kayang makabangong muli?

Masakit ang pagitan ng hita ko pero kailangan kong kumilos para sa trabaho. He's
nowhere to be found, mukhang nauna ng umalis. I found a newly cooked breakfast on
the table and a piece of the same flower he gave me yesterday.
Nang maayos ko ang sarili ay tumayo ako at inayos ang pants.

I walked but then frowned.

What the hell, Scira? Ibinigay mo na ang perlas ng silanganan sa isang banyaga!

I froze, naririnig na ang sigawan ni Darshana at Zirena sa tainga ko kapag nalaman

nilang may naka-entrance na!

I walked outside, not minding the wind slapping my face while remembering the fall of
my Bataan last night.

Yes, it's really good, I mean...it's Warren and...

"What the fuck, Scira? Ang landi mo!" I hissed quietly and stomped my feet.

I stopped when I saw the commotion, naglakad ako roon at nagtaka nang makitang may
mga tao sa labas ng cabana nila Engr. Vioxx.

My forehead creased when I saw Warren, katulong siya sa pagbuhat ng kama palabas
kaya napanguso ako.

What happened?

Biglang nakita ko ang namumulang si Engr. Flores, tinawag ko ang atensyon niya at
gulat siyang napatingin sa akin. I remembered her glaring at me way back in the yacht.
"Y-yes?" she asked, smiling a bit.

"What's happening?" I asked curiously, "bakit inilalabas ang kama sa cabana?"

Napaubo siya, sobrang pula na ng mukha at kinagat ang labi.

"M-marupok kasi," she answered and I froze, parang tinamaan sa sinabi niya.

"A-ako?" I asked and she shook her head.

"Oo, I mean, no." she cleared her throat. "Marupok ang kama, uh, luma na kasi."

"O-oh?" napalunok ako, muling naisip kama na muntik na ring masira kagabi. "oo nga,
eh. Marupok din ang kama sa amin."

"Oh?" her eyes widen a bit and smiled. "uh, luma na kasi. Mabuti hindi nawasak. Ano,
uhm, tara, una na tayo sa site!"

Kumapit siya sa akin at sabay na kaming nauna sa site.

I was quiet the whole day, hanggang ngayon ay iniisip pa rin ang nangyari kagabi at
ang paliwanag niya sa nangyari noon.

My heart is having doubts, I liked what happened yesterday, I wanted it too but I don't
think I can accept him again in my heart.
I am still afraid, afraid that he'll hurt me again and if he did, saan ako pupulutin? I was
lost when he left me and when I found myself again, he's here again and who knows
what he'll do? Baka...baka mawala akong muli ang sarili, saan na ako pagkatapos?

"Uy, bukas na pala." I overheard Vioxx saying. "May pa-handa ka?" he teased.

May kausap ako pero rinig na rinig ko ang boses nilang magkausap.

"Gago, you know I don't celebrate it." He answered.

"Why not? It's been years, matagal na, Warren. You think Tita would like you
mourning?" he asked. "Isa pa, it's your day."

"No one would be with me, anyway." Warren answered.

"Ako, sina Caspian." He answered, "ikaw lang naman ang may ayaw i-celebrate—"

"Uhm, Architect, how about this?" nawala na ang pakikinig ko nang tawagin ng team
ang atensyon ko.

I was tired the whole day, kanina pa lapit ng lapit sa akin si Warren pero hindi ko naman
alam ang sasabihin sa kanya kaya kahit ngiti ay hindi ko maibigay. He's confused but
respected my privacy so he remained quiet.

Lalapit lang siya kapag ipapaalalang break na at bibigyan ako ng tubig at pagkatapos
ay lalayo at susulyap-sulyap lang.
I feel so uncertain, lalo na noong nakitang kausap niya iyong blonde at natawa pa sa
sinabi nito.

A yacht came, si Warren ang nagtungo roon at pinagmamasdan ko lang siyang

maglabas-pasok mula roon.

Natapos ang trabaho na hindi siya lumalabas at bumalik sa akin kaya napabuntong-
hininga na lang ako at umalis.

I went home, nagpadala ng pagkain ang restaurant kaya kumain muna ako sa cabana
bago nag-shower at pahinga.

Warren is still not back kaya napabuntong-hininga ako.

Is he...with his girls?

Totoo ba 'yong dahilan niya? Is he still in love? Is he really into me?

Nine PM came and he wasn't here, nakahiga ako sa kama at nakatitig sa pintuan
habang inaantay siyang dumating. Nang makitang gumalaw ang pintuan ay suminghap
ako at dali-daling tumalikod mula sa pwesto niya.

I can hear his footsteps, I closed my eyes, pretending to be asleep. May naamoy akong
mabango, gusto sanang lumingon pero hindi ko nagawa dahil kunwari ay tulog ako.

"You're already sleeping?" he chuckled a bit, naramdaman ko ang paglubog ng kama

sa gilid. "you really are tired."
I felt him touching my hair but I remained motionless.

"I have a gift for you but..." he sighed. "it's okay, let's talk tomorrow. You should rest for
now. I'll sleep on the floor so you'll be comfortable."

He kissed my hair, stood and went to the bathroom.

Malalim siguro ang iniisip at pagod kaya nakatulog kaagad. I woke up with the smell of
delicious breakfast. I opened my eyes and sat on the bed, nang bumaling ako sa may
kusina ay may nakatayo roon kaya tumayo ako.

I took my robe, wrapped my body with it, nag-ayos muna ako saglit sa banyo bago
nagtungo sa kusina.

"Good morning, Ma'am!" Warren's cheerful voice stopped me, gulat akong napasulyap
sa kanya at nakita ko ang ngiti niya.

"M-morning," I said.

He touched my forearm, slowly lead me to the seat and assisted me. Nang maupo ay
mabilis siyang humalik sa noo ko at ngumiti.

"I cooked you breakfast today, wait." He smiled.

Napasulyap ako sa hapag, nakitang marami-rami ang breakfast kaya nagtaka ako.

"May...fiesta ba?" I asked and he chuckled, I noticed him wearing his navy blue dress
shirt tucked on his black slacks now. Mukhang maagang nagising at nag-ayos.
"Wala," he smiled.

"But I'm on diet." My lips protruded and he chuckled.

"No diet for today, Ma'am. Magpi-pyesta tayong dalawa. Wait." He smiled and left me in
the kitchen, sinilip ko ang agahan at mukhang kanina pa nga siya nagluluto.

I wonder anong mayroon ngayon?

Nagitla ako nang may lumitaw na pumpon ng bulaklak sa harapan ko. My eyes widen,
inabot ko 'yon at napasulyap kay Warren na nakangiti.

"My gift," he said.

"O-oh, thanks..." nag-init ang pisngi ko at inamoy ang bulaklak. "anong mayroon?"

His lip twitched and shook his head, "nothing, I just wanted to give you one. Do you like
it?"

"Yes," my heart thumped. "thank you."

He smiled sweetly, I saw how his smile reached his eyes. He looks handsome all the
time but he looks extra now because of that heartwarming smile.

"Great!" he chuckled, bibong bumalik sa pagluluto at sumulyap ako sa bulaklak na

hawak ko pabalik sa kanya.
I don't know what to feel, my heart is happy but my mind...my mind is having doubts.

Parang ang bilis lang, we just got here and I am falling continuously again for the
second time.

"May mga pagkain silang inaayos sa resto, pinadala sa yate kahapon. Mamayang lunch
siguro tapos na." Kwento niya pero nanatili akong nakatitig sa bulaklak. "Pinadala ko rin
'yang bulaklak kahapon, mabuti nga at nasama, late ko na kasi nasabi."

It's too sudden, I don't know...I don't want to commit. I'm still scared.

"I'm supposed to give it to you last night but you're already sleeping—"

"Let's stop this, Augustine." I suddenly said and I saw him froze, unti-unting lumingon
siya sa akin.

"Stop what?" he looks confused. "'yong pagkain ba? I will eat with you, don't worry.
Alam ko namang hindi mo 'to mauubos." Muli siyang bumaling

"No," I sighed. "I mean, we had sex, I know, but we're two consented adults. We both
know it is a one-time thing."

Hindi siya sumagot, nakita kong patuloy na inaayos niya ang pagkain kaya humugot
ako ng lakas ng loob para magsalita ulit.

"And it's too sudden, I don't want to commit...not to you." I explained. "I know you
already explained your side but I don't..."
Bumagsak ang tingin ko sa bulaklak at hinaplos iyon, kumakalabog and dibdib.

"I still don't trust you," I whispered. "I-I don't think I can trust you again, you lied to me in
the past. P-paano pa ngayon? Call me a bitch for being like this but I...still can't."

"I-I may be still attracted to you but that's it, I don't think we can be back to what we are.
We had sex, it's fun and I liked it but I think, that's it. Thinking about us again makes
me...uncomfortable."

Hindi siya umimik, nakita kong pinatay niya ang kalan at nilagay ang niluto sa plato.
Nangilid naman ang luha ko at nagbaba ng tingin, natatakot nab aka galit nga siya.

"S-sorry, Warren." My voice broke while lowering my head. "I-I just can't now, I-I think
I'm still broken and I deserve better, not this, not you and I don't want us. Not anymore."

"It's alright," he put the plate on the table and walked towards me, napasinghap ako
nang bahagya siyang lumuhod sa harapan ko at sinapo ang pisngi ko.

Our eyes met and I almost broke down when I met his soft eyes.

"You don't have to apologize," he said and dried my tears. "and stop crying because of
me, I don't deserve it."

"I just..." I bit my lip and gulped.

"And it's true," he smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. "you deserve better, you don't
deserve just me."
Hindi ko na alam ang sasabihin, mas tumungo ako at narinig ko ang buntong-hininga
niya at ang paglapat ng labi niya sa noo ko.

"I'm sorry for taking advantage of you, I-I shouldn't have take you that way. I apologize
for being here, Ma'am." He said and I shook my head.

"H-hindi naman sa ganoon, I just..."

"It's okay," he smiled. "I respect and understand you. Stop blaming yourself because it
wasn't your fault, it's mine."

"W-Warren," I muttered.

He smiled a bit and tapped my cheek.

"Cheer up, Scira. You are a strong woman and please always be strong. I promise to
stop bothering you, please be comfortable here." He said and stood.

"Kain ka na, I cooked this all for you, I know it's awkward with me around, lalabas na
lang muna ako para mas kumportable ka." He said, flashed a small smile but my heart
broke when I realized it was forced and didn't even reach his eyes.

Kabanata 23
I found myself staring blankly at the table where the foods he made are placed. It all
smells good, if it's a simple and regular day, baka kanina pa ako kumain at
nagpakabusog.

But now? I don't know.

I am sure this is delicious but I lost my appetite.

My eyes are in the verge of crying again, I can feel the heavy feeling inside my chest,
still not fading when I saw him turning his back at me and walked away.

I'm so sorry, Warren... I am so sorry, I'm...I'm still hurt. I don't think I can commit again.

Maybe that's the reason why I am so afraid of relationships, years had passed and yet
I'd never had an eye at someone, kahit may sumusubok, because I couldn't trust them,
afraid they would lie to me and cheat on me and fool me.

I lowered my head and heaved a deep sigh.

I chose to eat the foods he prepared because it was him who cooked.

I feel bad saying that to him but it's okay to voice out than to keep it inside of me at baka
magkasakitan lang kaming dalawa.

I should be glad that he understands me, he respects me but...why do I feel so sad

now?
My shoulders are slacked yet I chose to go and clean myself after I am done eating.
Inayos ko ang lamesa at tinakpan ang pagkain bago nag-ayos.

While I was blow drying my hair, my eyes are fixed on the bouquet of flowers in front of
me.

I smiled and slowly touched it.

I'm sorry, I am really sorry, Warren.

I am falling for him, again. Maybe harder this time, his simple smiles and thoughtfulness
were making my heart danced in joy but it will always fade every time the thought of him
fooling and lying to me comes back.

It was odd seeing a lot of foods for breakfast but I tried my best to have a taste of it all.
Medyo nalungkot lang dahil mukha akong bastos na sinabi iyon sa harapan ng pagkain.

I sighed, tapos na akong magbihis pero hindi ko alam ang dapat gawin. Hindi ko naman
daw kasalanang ganoon at h'wag ko rin daw dapat sisihin ang sarili ko but I still feel so
bad and lonely.

I sat on the bed and decided to call my parents.

Ang sabi nila sa akin noon, kahit hanggang ngayon naman din ay intimidating daw ako
tignan. Parang walang pakialam sa mundo, bitch, as what my exes called me. Well, I
admit na minsan maldita talaga ako and sometimes, my mouth would tell things not
really advisable to be said out loud and when I'm in doubt or I feel lonely, I always seek
advice to my parents.
Their words would always make me feel good and made me realize things.

It's still early and it's Sunday so I didn't expect my father would answer the call in my
first attempt.

He accepted the video call, ngumiti naman ako kaagad at kumaway pagkakita sa
kanya.

"Hi, Dad!" I tried to sound cheerful.

He smiled a bit, nakita kong nakashirt pa siya at naupo sa kama, namumungay pa ata
ang mata.

"Hi, princess." He said and I chuckled.

"Sorry, king. Did I wake you up?" marahang sabi ko at ngumisi siya bago umiling.

"Not really," he chuckled, nakita kong inabot niya ang salamin sa side table at may
umagaw sa kanya ng phone.

Noong una ay akala ko nahulog lang pero nang biglang lumitaw ang mukha ng reyna ay
napatawa na ako.

"Mommy!" I cheered.

"Hey, honey. Morning." She smiled, sumandal din siya sa kama at saglit na inayos ang
night dress niya. Her hair's quite disheveled and looks like she just woke up too kaya
napalabi ako.
"I'm sorry, Mommy, Dad. Did I disturb you?" I asked and she chuckled, shaking her
head.

Nakita kong sumandal siya sa may head board ng kama at ngumiti sa akin.

"It's alright, it wasn't a big deal, as if naman natulog pa kami." She grinned.

"Zidney!" my Dad's voice thundered, humagalpak si Mommy at napakunot ang noo ko,
naguguluhan.

Biglang kinuha ni Dad ang phone pero inagaw ito ng tumatawang reyna. Hindi ko alam
pero kahit anong gulo ng camera sa agawan nila ay natawa ako.

"Thorn!" she hissed.

"Kung ano-anong sinasabi mo sa anak mo!" Dad hissed.

"Bakit? Hindi naman talaga tayo nakatulog—"

"Zidney Agnieszka!" he hissed at napatawa na ako nang tuluyan nang maagaw ni Dad
ang phone at nakita ko na siya sa camera.

"Hi, princess. Sorry for that, your Mom's being a brat again." He said and I chuckled,
dumungaw na rin mayamaya si Mommy na nakanguso na.
"Edi, hindi na!" she whined then looked at me and immediately smiled. "hi, princess!
Good morning!"

"Morning again, Mom, Dad." Napangiti ako, sumandal sa may kama at pinagmasdan
silang dalawa.

Hindi ako nagsalita kaagad at nakita ko ang seryosong mga mata ni Daddy.

"Did...something happened?" he started and I sighed.

"Wala naman po," I said softly.

"Something happened," my Mom concluded kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya, she now
looks serious. Nakita ko ang pag-nguso niya roon.

"What is it, princess?" she said softly and my heart fell again, nakagat ko ang labi ko at
mayamaya'y nahulog na ang luha sa mga mata ko.

Natahimik silang dalawa, I sobbed harder and covered my mouth at nagkagulo sila.

"W-what...princess? Do you want us there?" my Dad sounded worried and I sobbed,

shaking my head.

"N-no, I just...I missed you all so much." I muttered.

"Princess," Mom sighed. "we miss you too, baby. Don't cry, we love you."
I closed my eyes tightly, nahihiyang hinawi ang luha ko at sumulyap sa kanila.

"Sorry po," I said softly, "m-medyo masama lang ang pakiramdam ko at na-miss ko
kayo."

My mother's eyes soften, I saw Dad's eyes were fixed on me, as if finding something
wrong kaya ngumiti na lang ako.

"Are you sure—"

"I just miss you, Dad." I smiled, "don't go psychiatrist on me."

His lips rose, shaking his head. "Can't help it."

"I love you both, I just called because I missed you so much." I muttered.

"We miss you too, sweety." Mom smiled at me.

"If something's bothering you or you have any problem, do not hesitate to call us, hmm?
I love you, princess." Dad muttered and I smiled.

"I'm sorry for being emotional," I said.

Mabigat na kasi...

"No worries, you don't have to be sorry for things like that." My Mom said.
"Thank you, My, Dad. I have work now, I wanted to talk more but I am late. I love you
both." I smiled and kissed my phone before bidding goodbye.

I put the beautiful flowers first in water to prolong its freshness, pagkatapos ay inayos ko
ang blouse na suot at lumabas sa cabana.

I looked around, trying to find Warren but I can't see him.

Kumain na kaya siya? Is he alright? Where is he?

I sighed, it feels odd today. Malamig ang hangin pero makulimlim ang panahon. The
always sunny island is a bit more gloomy today.

Pagdating ko sa site ay walang mga tao roon, my forehead creased, nagtataka at nang
may makitang tauhan ay tinawag ko ang pansin niya.

"Uhm, hello, good morning." I smiled.

"Hello, Architect." Ngiti nito sa akin.

"Uhm," I looked around and asked him. "I'm just confused, nasaan ang mga tao?"

"Oh!" ngumiti siya bigla. "nasa restaurant, Ma'am. Nag-aayos."

"Hmm, bakit?" I asked, sumulyap sa orasan. "lunch? Maaga pa mag-lunch, ah?"

"Ay, hindi po." Tawa niya at umiling. "Nag-aayos lang po ng surpresa para mamaya."

"Surprise?" naguguluhan ko pang tanong.

"Ah, basta po." Ngiti niya. "Puntahan mo na lang po muna sila sa resto at nag-aayos na
sila kung sakaling babalik na si Engineer Miranda."

Naguguluhan man ay nagtungo ako sa restaurant, I am confused, my forehead creased

when I got inside and saw the people fixing tables.

Amoy na amoy ko ang nilulutong masarap na pagkain at si Vioxx naman ay may

kausap na mga tao roon. Sa tabi niya ay si Architect Flores.

"Oh, Architect!" nagitla ako nang lumitaw si Anna at tinawag ako.

"Uh, hello." I bit my lip.

"Tara, Architect. Upo muna tayo habang nag-aayos sila." Tawa niya at nagtataka man
ay nagpahila ako.

We settled ourselves in a chair in the side, abala ang mga tao, lalo na ang mga tauhan
sa Miranda firm kaya mas naguguluhan ako sa nangyayari.

"Nakaka-excite! Tiyak na matutuwa si Engineer pagbalik niya at nakita ito!" tawa ni

Jessica bago bumaling sa akin. "sayang, walang nabiling regalo, ikaw, Architect, may
regalo ka?"

I froze, lumalim ang gatla sa noo ko sa tanong niya.

"Gift?" I asked. "for?"

"Kay Engineer Miranda!" she giggled and my eyes widen, napasulyap kay Vioxx doon.

"Birthday ni Vioxx?" I asked, confused.

"Hindi po, ito talaga si Architect. Kunwari hindi alam ang birthday ni Engr. Warren pero
close na close sila!" Anna teased and I froze.

My mouth parted, kumalabog ang puso ko at napaayos ng upo.

"W-what?" halos mapubling ko ng tanong. "it's his birthday?"

Nakangisi pa ang dalawa pero nawala ng unti-unti nang makitang seryoso ako.

"You...don't know, Architect?" Anna asked and my heart hammered.

Napatayo ako bigla, hindi na sila nasagot at mabilis na lumapit kina Vioxx na naroon sa
gitna.

"Uhm, excuse me." I called his attention.

Napalingon si Engr. Flores sa akin at ngumiti kaya tipid din akong ngumiti at tumango.

"Excuse," Vioxx said and then glanced at me. "yes?" he asked.

"Uhm," my heart hammered more. "S-si Warren?"

"Oh, hindi nagpaalam sa'yo?" he asked and I shook my head.

"Saan...saan siya?" I asked.

"Umalis, eh. May titignan lang daw ata, babalik iyon sa tanghali ang alam ko." He said
and smiled. "Excited na excited 'yon kanina, did he cooked you food?"

I slowly nodded, nangingilid na ang luha.

"Y-yeah,"

"Masarap?" he asked and chuckled. "he's too excited of cooking, ngayon lang 'yan,
hindi kasi nagse-celebrate ng birthday."

"B-babalik naman siya, ano?" I asked and he nodded at me.

"I know he will, kunwari lang naman na surprise, siya nga kumuha ng lulutuin sa yate
kahapon para ngayon." He smiled boyishly at me.

"C-can I get his number?" I asked, kahit nagtataka man ay tumango siya at ipinakita sa
akin ang number.
Tumango ako at nagpaalam sa kanya bago lumabas. I was acting cool but when I got
outside, my tears fell, nanginginig na kinuha ko ang phone para tawagan siya pero
walang sumasagot.

"Oh, God." I whispered in the air and smacked my head. "Stupid, Scira! Stupid!"

"A-answer me, answer, please..." I whispered, calling him again but still, none.

I closed my eyes tightly, gasping.

I suddenly remembered the foods he cooked, the smile on his face and his flower gift for
me. It's his birthday, and the death anniversary of his parents and I...

Pinakalma ko ang sarili at inantay na magbalik siya, I am so scared, so hurt.

I was so insensitive! Hindi ko man lang naisip ito!

I am sitting on the bench beside the resto, kita ko ang paglabas-labas ni Vioxx para
tumingin sa labas at ngingiti lang sa akin.

I checked my watch, it's nearly one and yet, he still isn't here.

He never celebrates his birthday, ngayon lang tapos...

I froze when I felt a cold droplet on my arm. Hinayaan ko muna noong una pero nang
maramdamang mas dumami ay tumingala ako.
The sky is darker now, nang matantong umaambon ay suminghap ako at mabilis na
tumayo at pumasok sa resto.

I saw Vioxx is getting worried, sumulyap siya sa orasan niya. I saw the simple chocolate
cake in the middle, handa na silang lahat pero wala pa ang celebrant.

I sighed, lumapit na kay Vioxx at napatingin siya sa akin.

"Have you contact him?" he asked and I shook my head, worried.

"No," I sighed. "I tried calling and even texting him but I got nothing."

Natigilan kami nang tumama sa bubong ng resto ang malakas na pagbagsak na ulan,
nagsipasukan ang ibang nasa labas at mas kinabahan ako.

"A-ano bang sabi niya? Sabi ba niya babalik siya?" I asked. "Anong oras? Saan ba
siya?"

I am panicking, nangingilid na ang luha ko pero may humawak sa braso ko at

napalingon ako kay Engr. Flores na inalo ako.

"He said he'll just go somewhere, he brought the speed boat and left. I don't know
where did he go." He said, his forehead creasing.

"It's my fault," I whispered. "this is my fault."

"Did something happen?" Vioxx asked and I bit my lip, nodding.

"W-we had a misunderstanding," I confessed. "I-I pushed him away."

His mouth parted a bit and cursed.

"That fucker," he muttered and sighed. "I didn't know."

"S-sorry," I whispered, hinawakan ako ni Sera at umiling sa akin si Vioxx.

"It's not your fault," he said. "wait, let me just call him, okay?"

Pinagtitinginan na kami pero walang naglakas loob na magtanong.

Naglakad siya palabas ng resto pero sumunod ako. Even Engr. Flores followed us.

Malakas ang patak ng ulan na amoy na amoy ko na ang simoy nito.

I bit my lip and watched Vioxx called his cousin, nangingilid na ang luha ko sa kaba at
takot kung anong nangyari na kay Warren.

"Tubig?" she asked and I shook my head.

"Where are you?" halos napatalon ako nang magsalita si Vioxx. Nagkatinginan kaming
dalawa. "Nasaan ka? Anong oras na, kakain na tayo rito."
His forehead creased, seryoso ang mukha at nagulat ako nang napaayos siya ng tayo
at nagmura.

"Gago ka, anong talon?" he said in a mad voice. "Tang ina mo, Warren. Subukan mo
lang tumalon d'yan at ako pa papatay sa'yong gago ka!"

My heart hammered, hinawakan ni Engr. Flores and kamay ko at mas nanginig ako
roon.

"H'wag mo akong tawanan, gago!" Vioxx cursed. "Are you drunk? Nasaan ka?!"

"I'll go there. Don't move an inch! Malilintikan ka sa akin!" Vioxx said and turned the
phone off.

Nagkatinginan kami kaya mabilis akong lumapit.

"N-nasaan siya? Is he alright?" I asked, panicking and he nodded at me.

"Yes, nasa may Navagio lang. the fucker's drunk."

"H-huh?" nanginig ang boses ko. "p-puntahan natin! Paano kung may mangyari—"

"Ako na ang bahala, stay here." He said.

"B-but..."
"Trust me," he smiled at me and glanced at Engr. Flores. "Sera, can you take her back
to her cabana? Papaunahin ko na lang muna kumain sila."

"Sure, akong bahala." She answered.

Hindi na ako naka-hindi nang pumasok si Vioxx, may inanunsyo at maya-maya pa'y
nakita ko ang iilang lalaki mula sa firm niya ang sumugod sa ulanan at kumuha ng
bangka.

I watched as they go with the waves, ayaw ko pa sanang umalis pero mapilit si Engr.
Flores na dalhin ako pabalik sa cabana.

I was nervous, isang oras na ang inantay ko pero wala pa rin sila.

"It's my fault," I whispered and Sera sighed, touching my hand.

"Calm down, it's alright. Warren will be fine." She tried calming me down but I just
couldn't.

"N-no," I whispered. "It's my fault! I-if only I didn't tell them those words!"

"Scira..." she called.

"I-I told him I didn't deserve someone just like him! S-sabi ko, hindi na namin maibabalik
ang dati. I-I am afraid to trust again. S-sabi ko ayaw ko na sa kanya pero m-mahal ko
pa siya, mahal na mahal..." I sobbed.

"Then, what happened?" she asked lowly.

"I just...I couldn't trust him, not now. I don't think I can." I said. "I'm scared."

"Then, give it time." She said softly. "Pangit ang kinalalabasan ng mga bagay na
pinipilit, Scira."

"B-but I did tell him those words on his birthday!" I exclaimed, "today is the same day he
lost his parents but I was so insensitive! Sabi niya, ayos lang, wala akong kasalanan at
naiintindihan niya but I..."

"Warren loved you dearly, Scira." Her words stopped me. "I actually not that close to
him and to you, either, but I can see how much he's in love with you."

"R-really?" I muttered and she smiled.

"Nagiging alipin na 'yan 'nung mga baliw na magpipinsan." She said and chuckled a bit.

I bit my lip and stared at my hands, kitang-kita pa rin ang malakas na pagbuhos ng ulan.

"But I suggest you to heal your broken heart, I suggest you to forgive and starts working
into erasing your doubts first. Mahirap kasi talaga kapag tiwala na ang nawala. Mahirap
ibalik."

"Y-you think, what I did was right?"

"Nilinaw mo lang naman sa kanya ang tungkol sa nararamdaman mo, 'di ba?"
"Yes," I nodded. "b-but I wouldn't have done it if I know it's his birthday. I was
insensitive." Bulong ko.

"Warren will understand," aniya. "at least, he knows your stand. You two both needs to
heal and if fate decided that it was still the both of you 'till the end, then, it will find a way
to bring you two together again."

I sighed heavily, may itatanong pa sana pero nang makita ang paparating ay napatayo
ako.

Two men are helping Warren walk. Ang isa ay nagpapayong sa kanila habang papunta
sa cabana.

"Oh my God..." I whispered.

Warren is drunk, kita ko pa ang pikit na mga mata niya habang sinusubukan siyang
ipasok sa cabana ng mga lalaki.

Vioxx and the other two are wet, si Warren ay basang-basa rin kaya iniupo siya sa sofa
at doon pa lang ay bagsak na siya.

"W-what happened?" I asked nervously, lumuhod ako sa harap ng nakapikit na si

Augustine at marahang hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya.

"He's drunk dead." Vioxx said kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya, basa pa ang kanyang
buhok.

"Found him near the cliff in Navagio, nandoon sa may puno, naliligo sa ulan habang
nagpapakalasing." He said.
My heart fell, naiiyak nanaman ako at mas hinaplos ang pisngi niya.

"Tin," I whispered and he just groaned and didn't open his eyes. "I-I'm sorry..."

"It's okay, Scira." Vioxx smiled at me. "Let me just change his clothes then we'll take him
on the bed. Baka magkasakit pa."

I nodded weakly, humawak sa akin si Sera at saglit kaming lumabas habang inaayos ni
Vioxx ang pinsan.

I was so worried and nervous, nang lumabas si Vioxx ay kaagad akong tumayo.

"H-how is he?" I asked.

"We changed his clothes, tulog." Turo niya sa kama kung nasaan naroon si Warren. "it's
okay, Architect. Ako na muna ang bahala sa pinsan ko—"

"No!" I cut him off. "let me...let me take care of him."

His forehead creased, "are you sure? Ayos lang naman kung ako, Sera would
accompany you for a while."

"No," I shook my head. "please, let me take care of him. Please."

He stared at me for a while and I gasped when he nodded.

"Okay, basta kung kailangan mo ng tulong, we're just on our cabin, okay?"

"Yes," I muttered and glanced at Warren. "thank you..."

Iniwan nila ako pagkatapos kaya dali-dali kong tinungo ang banyo para kumuha ng
timba at bimpo. I was panicking, naiiyak pa nga ata ako nang makabalik at kitang-kita
ang pamumula ng kanyang mukha.

His forehead is creasing and groaning kaya naupo ako sa tabi niya.

"Tintin," I whispered and lifted the towel so I could dry his wet hair. "I'm sorry..."

He only groaned, tumulo ang luha sa pisngi ko kaya hinawi ko ito at pinigaan ang
basang t'walya at inangat ang kanyang braso.

I was emotional while I was doing that, kita ko ang malalim niyang paghinga at bawat
pagkunot ng noo. His eyes are tightly closed, his lips are in a firm and thin line.

"I'm sorry, Tin..." nanghihina kong buhok at marahang humalik sa noo niya. "I-I didn't
know it's your birthday. I am so sorry."

Sa muling paghalik ko sa kanyang noo ay naramdaman ko ang kanyang hininga sa

leeg. Napapikit ako nang maramdaman ang hawak niya sa aking baywang.

"M-ma'am..." he said faintly.

"Hmm?" my voice broke, nakapikit pa rin siya kaya hinaplos ko ang kanyang buhok.
"Wavyu..." he said in a groggy voice.

I bit my lip and moved away, "punasan muna kita, hmm?"

He just groaned and moved a bit, pinunasan ko ang kanyang leeg at braso, inangat ko
rin ang damit para mapunusan ang dibdib niya at nang matapos ay inangat ko ang
comforter sa kanyang katawan.

I placed the towel on his forehead, in case na lalagnatin siya dahil medyo mainit na ang
kanyang katawanan.

I stood, was about to take the basin back to the restroom when a hand on my wrist
stopped me. Gulat akong nagbaba ng tingin at nakitang hawak niya iyon.

I glanced at him and saw his eyes slightly opened.

"D-don't leave..." he whispered painfully.

"I won't..." I whispered. "sandali lang, ilalagay ko lang sa banyo ito,"

"B-balik ka?" he said faintly.

"Yes," I smiled.

Slowly, he let me go. Pagkatapos kong ilagay ang basin sa banyo ay kaagad ko siyang
binalikan.
I saw that he's fast asleep again, his forehead is still creasing kaya lumapit ako at naupo
sa kanyang tabi.

"D-don't leave," he said, his breathing a bit unstable. "d-don't, Ma..."

Bumigat na naman ang puso ko.

I saw how he moved his head, "n-no..." he muttered and my heart fell.

"Augustine," I called and brushed his hair softly. "sshh, I'm here..."

"I-iwan mo, n-no..." I saw how a tear escaped his eye, nahulog iyon sa may tainga niya
kaya mabilis ko iyong pinunasan.

"Sshh," I hummed.

"N-no..." I saw how pain and fear crossed his eyes at parang bumalik sa ala-ala ko ang
pagkawala ni Ate Clyte.

It's still fresh... I remembered crying this much when she vanished.

"N-no..." he whispered and moved a bit.

"C-come on," my voice broke and cuddled Warren.

He moved a bit, mabilis ko siyang niyakap at naramdaman ko pagsiksik niya sa
katawan ko.

He keeps on whispering words I cannot understand. Hinaplos ko ang kanyang likod at

paulit-ulit na humalik sa kanyang noo.

"It's gonna be fine, I'm just here." Alo ko at mas niyakap siya.

I felt him heaving a deep sigh kaya inangat ko ang ulo niya at pinaunan sa braso ko. I
cuddled him closer to mine and I felt him moving on my neck. Isiniksik niya ang ulo roon
at tahimik kong hinayaan siya at pinakalma.

"Shh, it's okay..." bulong ko.

"D-don't leave," I noticed the pain in his faint voice.

"I won't..." I whispered, brushed his hair and kissed his forehead. "so, sleep now. Sleep
tight, Sir."

Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras akong tumitig habang natutulog siya.

He looks so soft, even if he's sleeping. Matangos ang ilong, mahaba ang pilik-mata at
manipis ang mapupulang labi.

"Happy birthday, August." I whispered and kissed the tip of his nose. "I-I wish love is
really meant for the both of us."

I woke up with the sound of the creaking door.

I immediately opened my eyes and saw the familiar cabana, bigla kong naalala si
Warren kaya hinaplos ko ang tabi ko at napasinghap nang makitang wala na siya roon.

My forehead creased, napansing sa akin na nakabalot ang comforter at may nakaayos

na unan sa aking uluhan.

Kaagad akong napaupo sa kama at hinanap ng mata ko si Augustine. My eyes widen

when I saw him in the sala, may inaayos sa rattan na upuan doon.

Tumayo ako, sumulyap sa orasan at nakitang alas-nwebe na ng gabi, bumagsak ang

kumot ko sa ginawa at mabilis akong nagpunta roon.

"T-Tin?" I called and he immediately stopped.

He shifted his gaze at me and my heart hammered when I realized he just got from the
bath. Suot ang kulay itim na shirt at maong, magulo pa ang buhok at basa.

"Hi," I saw his smile. "good evening, kain ka na."

Bumaba ang tingin ko sa inaayos niya sa may upuan at natigilan ako nang makitang
ang bag niya iyon kung nasaan ang mga damit niya.

"W-what..." nanuyo ata ang lalamunan ko sa nakita.

Why is he...why is he fixing his clothes inside his bag?

Is he leaving?

"It's late, I know you haven't eaten anything yet." He said, as if not minding my
expression. "Nagpadala ako ng pagkain ngayon lang, ininit ko rin 'yong pagkain mo
kaninang umaga."

"Y-you're leaving?" I asked, my heart felt like breaking.

"Uh," he smiled faintly, brushing his hair with his fingers. "I heard you took care of me
earlier, salamat and I'm sorry for the trouble."

"N-no," I felt a lump on my throat. "i-it's okay, ano, uhm...aalis ka?"

His eyes landed on the bag he's fixing, inangat niya iyon at humapdi ang puso ko nang
makita kong inilagay niya ang bag pack iyon sa isang balikat at bumaling sa akin.

"Uh, an employee from the restaurant went home, they have an empty bed now,
matatagalan ang balik so I'll crash there for now." He said, smiling but I couldn't give it
back.

"H-huh?" I asked and stared at his eyes. "no, i-it's okay if you stay here, w-we can share
the bed—"

"No," he chuckled a bit but I didn't find any humor in it. Inangat niya ang kamay niya at
inilagay sa tuktok ng ulo ko.

He brushed my hair a bit and put a few strands behind my ear.

"I'm okay, I want you comfortable here." He said and I immediately shook my head.

"I am!" I insisted, "okay lang na nandito ka, I won't mind—"

"I have to control myself, Ma'am." He said and I froze. "I love you and I know you don't
want me here and I understand it, I respect your decision."

"A-ayos nga lang kung nandito ka," I whined.

"I need to control myself," he whispered and met my eyes. "I want you to be comfortable
and you can't do it when I'm around."

Hindi ako nakaimik, mabigat ang pakiramdam ko at naiiyak na naman.

"Don't worry about me, I'll be fine." He smiled again. "Sige na, kain ka na, I will go there
now. Thank you for taking care of me, I felt good. Thank you."

Hindi ko na alam ang sasabihin, nanatili akong nakatitig sa kanya at nakita kong
namamasa na rin ang mata niya, he stared at me and my heart felt like squeezing when
a tear fell from his left eye but he immediately looked away and dried it with the back of
his palm.

"W-Warren..." I called.

"Uhm, sige, uuna na ako." He smiled and turned his back but I was too quick to pull his
shirt back.

He froze, nakita ko ang pagsulyap niya sa akin at nanginginig man ay nagsalita ako.
"H-happy birthday," I whispered and I saw how his eyes soften.

He shifted his position and glanced at me, he is smiling but that was the most painful
thing I've seen from him.

He moved closer, touching my forearm and my eyes shut when I felt his soft lips on my
forehead.

"Thank you," he whispered. "I love you, I promise to stop bothering you. I wish you
nothing but the best."

Kabanata 24

I should only focus at work, that's what I keep on telling myself but I just couldn't. I feel
sad and alone.

Every time I'm walking up, I can see hot breakfast on my table. Sa gabi ay may
nagpapadala rin ng pagkain sa cabana ko mula sa restaurant.

I don't need to think twice to know who's giving this, alam ko na kaagad kung sino ang
naglalagay sa umaga at ang nagpapahatid sa gabi.

I still love him yet the doubt in my heart is still in there, I am doing my best to learn, to
heal and to accept things. Hindi na kami nag-uusap, wala namang nagtatanong sa amin
tungkol hindi namin pagpapansinan.
When Engr. Flores and Engr. Miranda left for an emergency, we lead the team in
finishing the renovation. It was fulfilling, to be one of the firms to renovate such
astonishing island.

Malaki ang ngiti ko habang iniisip na huling araw na namin sa trabaho. We had a
celebration that night for another successful project.

Sumimsim ako ng inumin habang pasimpleng sumusulyap kay Warren. He's smiling a
bit while talking to his team, ang babaeng blonde ay naroon palagi sa kanyang tabi.

My forehead creased, I almost scoffed when the lady filled his glass with beer again. I
saw her whispered something, tumungo naman ng bahagya si Warren para makuha
ang sinasabi nito at mayamaya'y natawa.

"Architect, may lumalabas ng laser sa mata mo." Kalabit sa akin ni Anna kaya natigil
ako.

I cleared my throat, looked away at tinungga ang isang buong baso. Nagtawanan sila ni
Jessica kaya naglagay muli ako sa baso at diretsong uminom.

"Grabeng inom naman 'yan, Architect." Tawa ni Anna kaya ngumisi ako, medyo nahihilo
na kaya sumandal at muling sumimsim.

Nagitla ako nang may maupo sa tabi ko, I smiled when I saw Arch. Pablo.

"Hello, Scira." He smiled and I nodded, smiling a bit.

"Hi," I said softly.

He moved a bit, inangat ko saglit ang ulo ko para pakinggan ang kanyang bulong.

"You look beautiful," he whispered huskily.

I chuckled, nahihilo siyang sinulyapan at muling uminom sa baso.

"You look great yourself too," I greeted back.

Sabay kaming nagtawanan, bumaling ang tingin ko sa may pwesto ni Warren at nawala
ang ngisi ko nang nakita ang seryoso niyang tingin sa pwesto ko.

I cleared my throat, nakita kong hinawakan 'nung blonde ang braso niya, mukhang may
ibubulong pero hindi siya gumalaw at nanatili ang tingin sa akin.

Michael filled my glass again with beer, inilahad niya sa akin iyon kaya ngumiti lang ako
ng tipid at umiling.

"This is our last day here," he whispered and took my arm. "I am not sure if I'll see you
again."

"Hmm," I hummed, nakikipagtitigan kay Warren na seryosong sumisimsim sa alak.

He's serious, not moving an inch and remain staring, kahit anong tawag ng katabi ay
hindi lumingon kaya tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko.
"I'm thinking if I can get your number?" he asked and tugged my arm kaya napalingon
ako sa kanya.

"Huh?"

"Your number," he smiled at me. "can I?"

"O-oh, sure." Tango ko at nang iabot niya sa akin ang kanyang phone ay tinype ko roon
ang numero ko.

I was a bit dizzy, nakailang simsim pa ako sa alak ko at nanatili siyang may sinasabi sa
tabi ko.

"I like you, Scira." He said, nagkakatuwaan na ang iba, nagsasayawan na sa gitna pero
seryoso lang akong nakasandal sa upuan, halos pikit na ang mata.

"Scira?" he called again, I felt him touching my arm kaya umigtad ako at medyo
gumalaw palayo.

"I-I'm fine," I said groggily.

"I wanted to court you," he muttered but I didn't quite comprehend.

I can feel my stomach churning, mas napapikit lang ako nang maramdamang nasusuka
na.

Damn it, Valderama! This is why I hate the aftermath of getting drunk!
Nahihilo man ay napamulat ako, bigla akong napatayo.

I met Warren's eyes but I was too preoccupied to even say something and found myself
walking towards the bathroom.

"Scira?" Michael called.

Tinakbo ko ang banyo, pagkakita ko palang ng sink ay kaagad na akong nagtungo roon
at mas umikot ang tiyan.

I puked my lungs out, I liked drinking pero ayaw ko talaga ang pagsusuka at hang over!

I felt myself getting weaker, napahawak pa ako sa sink at halos masubsob na sa

pagsusuka nang magbukas ang banyo.

I saw Michael behind me, magtatanong sana ako kung bakit siya nasa loob ng banyo
pero hindi na nagawa dahil bigla akong nagsuka ulit.

I was dizzy, inangat ni Michael ang buhok ko at marahang hinawakan ang baywang ko.

"Are you alright? Tara, doon ka muna sa kwarto ko para may mag-alaga sa'yo." He
muttered and helped me up.

I am dizzy, umayos ako ng tayo at nahihilo pa. My eyes are about to close, my mouth
parted, sasabihin sanang ibalik na lang ako sa kwarto ko pero parang nasusuka naman
kaya kinagat ko na lang ang labi.
He helped me went out of the bathroom when I saw Augustine standing in front of the
door.

I froze, nakita ko ang pagkunot ng kanyang noo nang makita si Architect Pablo.

"What happened?" he said in a deep baritone, parang iikot na naman ang tiyan ko roon.

"She's drunk, Engineer. Dadalhin ko muna sa kwarto ko para maalagaan." He answered

back.

Nag-aalon na ang paningin ko.

"What?" I heard Warren's cold voice. "let me, I will take her back to her room."

"Hindi na, Engr." Michael laughed a bit, "ayos lang, ako na ang bahala kay Architect."

I slowly glanced at Warren and saw his cold eyes, his jaw clenched when he heard it.

"No," he said hardly and sighed. "I know Scira, she won't like it if she woke up in
someone else's room."

"Hindi naman ako ibang tao, Engr." Humigpit ang hawak nito sa baywang ko. "I can
definitely take care of her, 'tsaka kilala naman niya ako—"

"T-Tin?" I suddenly called.

Our eyes met, I saw how his eyes soften when he glanced at me.
"Hmm?" he hummed and tried holding me but Michael gripped my waist and pulled me
a bit.

"Scira, let's go to my room—"

"No!" I groaned and glanced at him, nabakas ko ang gulat sa mata ni Michael sa
biglaang asta ko.

"Scira—"

"G-gusto ko, Tintin!" I whined.

His mouth parted, nang sumulyap ako kay Warren ay nakita ko ang paglaki ng mata
niya.

Tinulak ko ang kamay ni Michael sa baywang ko at naglakad palapit kay Warren, he

looks shocked. Diretso lang ang lakad ko pero parang um-ekis ang paa at muntik nang
masubsob.

He caught me, I immediately smelled his scent and I heaved a deep sigh.

"Ma'am," he whispered. "come on, let's get you to your room."

He touched my waist, pumikit-pikit pa ako, sinusubukang maging matino ang pag-iisip

nang marinig ang boses ni Warren.
"Excuse us, Arch. Pablo. I will take her to her room." He said coldly and helped me.

Sa isang pintuan ng resto malapit sa back door kami lumabas. Malakas at malamig ang
hangin doon, I can smell the salty air but my head is throbbing.

"Careful," Warren muttered when I almost tripped on the stone.

I blinked again.

"Umaalon 'yong sand," hagikhik ko nang mapansing gumagalaw ang nilalakaran ko.

I heard his soft chuckle kaya nilingon ko siya at sinamaan ng tingin.

"Bakit mo 'ko nitatawanan?" I hissed.

Mas lumaki ang ngiti niya at umiling, "nothing, I just find you adorable when drunk. You
keep on murmuring cute words, like a toddler."

"W-what?" napasinghap ako nang muntik na namang madapa.

"Shit!" sinalo niya ako kaagad kaya napaayos ako ng tayo at suminghap. "Careful,
Scira."

"I am!" I exclaimed. "Kasalanan ko ba kung napatid ako? Eh, kitang dadaan nga ako
hindi tumabi 'yong bato!"

His laugher roared, sumimangot ako lalo.

"Bakit ako pinapagalitan mo? Pagalitan mo 'yong bato!" I hissed audibly.

Tawang-tawa siya, iritado ko siyang pinalo kaya sinalo niya ang kamay ko.

"Alright, alright. It's the stone's fault."

"Right?!" I hissed.

"Nahihilo ka ba?" he asked and my lips protruded.

"No, the sand is just moving. Nag-we-wave sila." I said softly. "Baliw ata ang buhangin
dito sa isla."

He chuckled, binitawan niya ako at pinagmasdan siya at nagulat ako nang ibinaba niya
ang katawan sa harapan ko, his back is on my sight.

"Gawa mo?" I asked.

"Piggy back," he said and I froze.

"H-huh?" nilingon niya ako at pinakita ang likod niya.

"I'll carry you on my back, come on, para hindi na umaalon ang buhangin." He said.

I was hesitating, nanliliit ang mata ko at mas inaantok, aayaw sana pero nagsalita siya.
"Come on, Ma'am." He said and I pouted.

Unti-unti kong hinubad ang sandals at lumapit sa kanya. I rested my body on his back
habang hawak ang sandals sa kamay ko. He supported me on his back at maya-maya
pa ay nabuhat na niya ako.

"Kapit ka," aniya kaya kumapit ako sa kanyang leeg.

My eyes are closing a bit yet my heart is thumping harder, ramdam ko ang init ng
katawan niya sa akin at mas napalunok ako.

I felt him kick on something and murmured words kaya iminulat ko ang mata ko.

"Sino kaaway mo?" I whispered.

"'Yong bato," he laughed a bit. "kitang dadaan 'yong mahal ko, hindi tumatabi."

Nagwala ang puso ko. I bit my lip and closed my eyes tightly.

Maya-maya pa ay parang umikot ang tiyan ko. Humigpit ang hawak ko sa shirt niya and
I felt him stopped.

"Ma'am?" he called. "what happened—"

I heard his loud curse when I suddenly puked on his clothes.

Masakit ang ulo ko, I woke up the next morning in fresh and new clothes. My head is
throbbing, unti-unting naupo at nang bumalik ang ala-ala ng nangyari kagabi ay
napamura.

I cursed hardly, mabilis na umikot ang tingin at nakitang walang tao maliban sa akin.

Napalingon ako sa gilid ng higaan at nakitang may gamot doon para sa hang-over ay
tumalon ang puso ko. I crawled towards it and saw a note.

Drink this to ease your headache, Ma'am. I cooked you breakfast, nasa lamesa. I
changed your clothes because it smells like puke. Hindi kita binosohan, promise.

I smiled and stood, walking towards the kitchen.

Hindi nga siya nagsisinungaling, mainit pa ang agahan doon.

I wanted to personally thank him for taking care of me, excited pa ako paglabas at
papuntang yate pabalik ng Casa Amara pero wala pala siya.

They said, nauna na siyang umalis dahil may aasikasuhin.

I don't know what to feel kaya tulala lang ako sa buong byahe at tahimik na nanunuod
ng hampas ng alon.

I checked my phone and find myself typing a message.

To: Unknown number

Hello, Tin. Thank you for last night. Pasensya na rin at nasukahan kita at sa abala.

I stared at it and almost jumped when it beeped.

From: Unknown number

It's okay. Welcome.

I bit my lip and typed an answer.

To: Unknown number

:)

I waited for a reply but I got none, kaya suminghap na lang ako at dinama ang sakit ng
dibdib.

It's okay, Scira. It's okay.

Kaya sa byahe pauwi ay tahimik ako kahit anong ingay at kulitan ng team. We we're
having a quick vacation before returning to work kaya masaya silang nakasama ko sa
proyekto.

Kuya Deion is the one who fetched me in the airport at mahigpit ang yakap ko sa kanya
nang makitang nakasandal sa may bench.
"You missed me that much, huh, princess?" he chuckled, kissing my hair.

"I do," I said and hugged him more.

"I missed you too," he whispered and kissed my head. "Come on, princess. Naghanda
si Mommy ng hapunan ngayon."

Magkatabi kami ni Kuya sa unahan ng sasakyan habang inaayos ko sa paper bag ang
mga pasalubong ko sa pamilya at mga pinsan.

Napasulyap ako sa may side mirror at nakitang may sasakyang nakasunod kaya
sumulyap ako kay Kuya.

"May bodyguards pa rin?"

"Hmm," he glanced at me. "hindi mo naman mapapansin, nariyan lang sa paligid."

"Kailan mawawala, Kuya?" I asked and he shrugged.

"The family won't loosen the security, ayaw nilang pasigurado, habang hindi pa nakikita
si Ate Clyte." He said.

I sighed heavily, nararamdaman ang pananakit ng dibdib.

"I-I missed Ate, Kuya..." I whispered.

"Me too," he whispered weakly. "the investigation is still on-going, hindi tayo titigil
hanapin siya, Scira. Pangako."

I went home, missing my family so much. Naiiyak nga ata ako nang makita ang Mommy
at Daddy, mahigpit na yakap din ang ibinigay ko kay Queen Scira na bibong ipinakita sa
akin ang stars sa kamay niya.

"Ate, I got stars! Ako ang pinakamarami sa room!" she cheered happily.

"Aww! Ang talino naman ng baby ko! Pa-kiss nga!" I kissed her soundly at natatawang
niyakap niya ako.

I gave my pasalubong to my cousins and their families, nag-sleep over din kami sa
ancestral house nila Papa Jer. Bumisita ang pamilya noong dumating ang death
anniversary niya.

We gave flowers to his and Mama Lena's tomb at nagdaos ng misa. Nag-kainan kami
sa may mausoleum at nag-celebrate.

Mama Lena said we shouldn't feel sad kaya ginawa namin ang lahat para maging
masaya.

Days turned to months and I felt empty and sad.

I missed him so much but I have to be myself, I have to trust him again, kahit hindi na
kami magkabalikan. Ang mahalaga sa akin ngayon ay mapatawad ang ginawa niya
noon kahit hindi naman niya ginusto. For myself and for him, I need to learn how to trust
again.
"In able to forgive other people, you must forgive yourself first." I remembered Dad
saying when I decided to open up my struggles one morning when I come with them to
his clinic.

Mom softly stared at me and nodded.

"How..." I sighed. "how could I start forgiving myself, Dad?"

"Ano bang nakakapagpabigat sa dibdib mo simula noon hanggang ngayon?" he asked

me and I sighed, iniisip ang sinasabi niya.

Pinisil ko ang stress ball at napainom ng tsaa.

I glanced at my mother and she smiled softly at me.

"It's okay, we are here to listen, princess..." lambing niya.

"I..." I sighed. "I feel bad ever since that time when I fought with you two."

I saw them remained quiet, waiting for me to speak.

"I said my sorry in the past yet, alam mo 'yon, minsan naiisip ko bigla 'yong sinigawan
ko kayo ni Mommy." I glanced at Mom and saw her teary-eyed. "I feel bad raising my
voice to Mommy that night, I feel bad that sinisi ko siya kaya ako nagpapaka-perpekto."

"We never forced you to be perfect, princess..." malambing na sabi ni Dad.

"And I forgot about that, anak." Lambing ni Mommy. "I understand you and you
apologized, wala na iyon sa akin. Ang mahalaga ay alam mong nagkamali ka at
nagpakumbaba."

"I just, I feel bad and sorry that you almost had panic attacks. I saw you crying, Mom. It
broke my heart. T-tapos, nawala pa si Papa Jer."

To my shock, my Mom went beside me and suddenly hugged me.

Mababaw ang luha ko pagdating sa pamilya kaya napaiyak ako at niyakap siya pabalik.
My Mom caressed my hair and hugged me more.

"Mahal na mahal kita, anak, alam mo 'yon, 'di ba?" she whispered and I nodded.

She kissed my hair.

"Lahat ng tao may pagkakamali, everyone has flaws and I understand that you got full
and burst your anger like that. I understand you because I was once like you, anak."
She moved away and cupped my face. "Hindi tayo perpekto, anak. Walang taong
ganoon."

I nodded and cried harder.

"We all share faults, sa iba't-ibang paraan nga lang so, I understand you. Anak kita,
kahit anong mali mo, kahit anong pagkukulang mo, mamahalin kita, kayo ng kapatid mo
ng buong-buo dahil mahal at anak ko kayo..."

"Thank you, Mom." I whispered. "S-salamat..."

"Drink this first," my Dad smiled when he saw me and Mom still hugging.

He refilled the tea and smiled at us.

"You two alike, para kayong kambal." He noticed.

Sabay kaming natawa ni Mommy sa kanya.

"Duh, s'yempre! Prinsesa ko 'to!" Mom exclaimed kaya napatawa si Dad.

Natahimik naman ako matapos ng usapan namin nila Dad, I saw Dad staring at me
kaya napalunok ako dahil mukhang nababasa niya ang iniisip ko.

"You have other problems, don't you?" he noticed and I found myself nodding.

Napatingin si Mommy sa akin kaya sumandal ako sa kanya at nagsalita.

"'Di ba, I asked you how to forgive someone and you told me that I must forgive myself
first?" I asked and he nodded at me.

"It's just that, I met Warren again." I saw how Dad stopped, si Mommy ay natahimik din.
"Nakasama ko siya sa project ko sa Lost Island."

Nabakas ko ang gulat sa mga mata ni Dad doon.

"He...told me the truth behind what happened." Aniya kaya mas sumikip ang dibdib ko.
"Turns out, it was a set-up, nautusan lang siyang magdala. His Auntie asked him to
hand documents sa mga kilala, he thought it's harmless yet..."

Nangilid ang luha ko, nang sumulyap kay Dad ay walang gulat sa mga mata niya at
napahugot lang ng hininga.

"Y-you knew?" I asked and slowly, he nodded.

Tumulo ang luha ko at napasinghap.

"He went to us that night, that night when you left, bago nangyari ang sa Papa Jer mo."
He confessed and my eyes swelled more, my Mom sighed and hugged me a bit.

"He told us that but out of madness, we shoo-ed him away, hindi kami napaniwala
kaagad doon, anak." Aniya sa akin.

"I'm so sorry, Scira, we thought he's lying to save his face. Itinaboy namin sa bahay at
sinabing h'wag nang papakita sa'yo dahil nakakagulo siya sa buhay mo." Mom said
kaya napaiyak akong lalo. "Sa galit ko ay nasabi ko 'yon."

"I-I don't know, Mom, Dad..." I cried. "n-nagalit ako sa kanya dahil doon."

"We only want the best for you and we thought he's using you so, if we have to shoo
him away to protect you, we will. Sa imbestigasyon ay siya ang itinuturo kaya hindi kami
basta naniwala. And...we found out what happened to Dad, I lost it..." Mom sighed
audibly.
"Naging abala kami, tayo sa pag-ayos ng kompanya at sa pag-asikaso sa lamay ni Dad.
We are looking after Mommy Lena too kaya halos taon din noong nalamang totoo nga
ang sinabi 'nung batang iyon."

Mas humigpit ang hawak ko sa stress ball at sumulyap sa kanila.

"I-I don't know what to do, Mom, Dad. I now know that he never fooled me but my
trust...I couldn't give it fully to him right now. Natatakot ako." I confessed.

"Once trust is broken, it takes time to be full again, anak." My Dad suddenly said kaya
napasulyap ako sa kanya. "Bukod ba roon sa akala mong nagsinungaling siya, may
ginawa pa siya?"

Nanuyo ang lalamunan ko at nakagat ang labi.

"W-well, then...he lied on being gay to be close to me." I said in a small voice.

I saw how my father's mouth parted.

Napahagalpak ng tawa si Mommy sa tabi ko at nag-init ang pisngi ko.

"What the hell..." my father hissed lowly, "but you told me..."

"J-joke lang, k-kasi baka sapakin mo siya." I said softly.

"Scira Rosalie!" he exclaimed and my mother laughed at that.

Dad's jaw clenched and massaged his temple.

"What the fuck? Sana ay sinuntok ko na!" he groaned angrily. "that asshole—"

"A-ako naman ang nagsabi 'nun na kunwari," I said.

"Kahit na, Scira Rosalie!" he exclaimed.

Mas nag-init ang pisngi ko sa hiya at natatawa na naman ang Mommy sa tabi. Mukhang
nang-gigilaiti si Daddy doon.

"Suntok na naging bato pa!" he whined. "Nangangati na 'yong kamao ko, eh. Tang—"

"Thorn Arzeus!" my Mom exclaimed kaya mas sumimangot si Daddy.

"What?" he frowned.

"Mamaya ka na magreklamo r'yan," Mom laughed a bit and kicked his feet. "May
problema ang anak mo, oh!"

Dad stared at me, ngumuso ako at nagpaawa kaya suminghap siya at nagmura.

"Damn it..." he cursed and shook his head. "what is it, young miss?" suplado niyang
tanong.

Nangiti ako at ngumuso.

"Sorry, Dad..." lambing ko. "I was just scared that you'll punch him, sayang naman ang
mukha kung may bangas—"

"But, princess—"

"Hoy, Valderama." Mom called. "H'wag ka ngang ano, noong sinuntok ka nga noon nag-
aalala rin ako sa'yo, ah! Sayang ang mukha mo! Isa pa, nairita ako kina Kuya at Dad
noon. Kung p'wede nga lang magsinungaling noon para 'di ka sapakin, ginawa ko na!"

Dad froze and smiled, "talaga?" he asked cutely.

I rolled my eyes, nag-ngitian ang dalawa kaya ngumuso ako.

"Hello, ako ang may problema rito?" I said and Dad jumped on his seat and glanced at
me.

"What again, princess?" he asked.

Hindi ko alam kung matatawa sa kanilang dalawa o malulungkot sa problema ko.

"Ayon nga, we met again and he asked if he could court or pursue me again like before
but I couldn't trust him fully and I am still in pain, akala wala na sa akin but then...I
realized I am still in love pero nahihirapan akong magtiwala."

Dad nodded at me, "and?"

"And..." I sighed, mas sumikip ang puso ko. "and I told him I deserve better, na I don't
deserve someone just...like him."

"That was a blow, princess." Dad commented kaya suminghap ako at tumango.

"I know," I said. "n-nadala lang ako, Dad. S-sabi ko hindi na kami p'wede and the thing
is...I said that words on his birthday."

"Words are words, sometimes it is good and some are painful. What you said is
painful...kapag may pinagdaraanan pa silang iba noong sinabi mo iyon, that's a double
blow, princess." My Mom said kaya humarap ako sa kanya.

"W-what should I do?" I said, "I-I love him, Mommy, pero natatakot akong magtiwala,
nasasaktan ako at nasaktan ko rin siya. I said those words, I was insensitive..."

"Listen," my Dad said kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya. "I always thought you and your
Mom almost have the same face but...I assume, magkaugali pala talaga kayo." He
chuckled.

Mom pouted, "bully ka!" she frowned.

"Uh-huh, let me elaborate this again." Dad said and pinched Mom's cheek, "Now, with
our daughter."

I was curious, inantay kong magsalita si Dad.

"You see, Scira..." he started. "I've been telling this to your Mom and Deion and I didn't
know I'll tell this to you too. I spared Clyte with this since, she's soft spoken."
"Clyte," Mommy whispered a bit kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya. I saw her sad eyes kaya
hinawakan ko ang kamay niya.

"We'll find her, Mom, okay?" alo ko at malungkot siyang tumango at humugot ng
hininga.

"Words are powerful, anak." Dad said kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya. "A single word is
enough to make or break a person, it's sharper than knives. It cuts deeply. Mas
nananatili ang sugat sa puso kaysa ang sugat sa balat."

I nodded and Mom sighed and nodded too.

"We didn't know how much a simple word could affect an individual emotionally,
p'wedeng wala lang sa kanila, p'wede may malaking epekto. It's actually based on their
emotional state the time you said those words."

I remembered Warren being happy, he cooked for me, it's his birthday and when I said I
deserve better and not just someone like him, he is suddenly gloomy. He managed to
stay smiling and lively but I can sense something wrong.

"'Yong tipong naghirap ka magluto kahit hindi ka marunong, you're confident, tapos
sasabihin lang na masama ang lasa." He said and slowly, nag-sink in sa akin.

"Sa iba, they would use it to strive harder yet in other, itatanim nila sa puso nila at
malulungkot." He said. "you can always voice out things and opinions without offending
people, depende lang iyan sa paraan ng pagsasalita at pagsasabi mo."

I froze and slowly nodded.

"That's why, I keep on telling your mother to think first before saying something harsh.
Alam mo naman itong reyna, minsan ay may ugali talaga." He said kaya sumulyap ako
kay Mommy na kinagat ang labi at ngumiti.

"Well, yeah. I remembered being cold and scolding people around, nag-iiyakan ang iba
sa sama ng ugali ko but I learned, I became better..." she glanced at Dad. "I think?"

"Yes," my Dad smiled and touched her hair, "you're the best."

My heart felt warm looking at the both of them.

"You get it, Scira?" Dad stared at me kaya tumango ako at ngumiti.

"You're the best, Dad." I smiled.

"You're the best, Master Thornie." Mom giggled kaya natawa si Dad doon.

"Relationship should never be rushed, princess." He said. "Find yourself again, forgive
and heal alone if you can. Two broken people can be together but it depends..."

"It's either you two would fix each other or will end up breaking one another." He
concluded.

"Hindi minamadali ang pagmamahal, anak." Mom smiled and touched my hair. "Sabi
nga ng Mommy Lena noon sa amin, fate would always bring two people together no
matter what happens if they're destined and if it's meant to be."
Trust. Forgiveness. Tact.

Ayon ang baon ko habang nasa proseso ng pag-aayos ng nararamdaman. I was busy
with work but I am making sure I always have time to have my personal peace of mind
and break.

Sometimes, it's okay to voice out what you feel to be free. It's okay to have a break. It's
okay to have peace of mind.

It's not being pa-bebe or maarte, it's about personal growth and healing.

Sabi nga ni Dad, two broken people can be together, it's just that, it depends. You can
fix your broken pieces together but there are instances where you'll just break one
another more.

"Uy, nasa cruise ship siya noong nakaraan." Hagikhik ni Zirena habang inaayos ang
buhok ni Coraline na nakikipaglaro sa mga pinsan. Ang yaya ni Aiden ay naroon sa gilid
at pinapatulog ang bunso.

"O-oh?" kunwari wala akong pakialam at sumulyap pa sa laptop.

"Sus, bakit ko pa sinasabi, s'yempre na-stalk mo na sa Instagram." Tawa niya.

Humaba ang nguso ko at tinaasan siya ng kilay, "hindi, ah."

"Weh?" tawa niya, "nakita ko nga ni-like mo 'yong post 'nung na picture ng deck sa
barko tapos biglang nawala ang like!"
"Hindi, ah!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening.

Shit! Shit! Hindi ko naman sinasadyang mai-like! Natanggal ko kaagad! Nakita niya?!

"Sus, stalker!" tawa niya sa akin kaya umismid ako.

"Hindi, ah! Feeling nito." Irap ko. "Nasaan ang asawa mo, bakit ka na naman
nanggugulo?" pagtataray ko pero tawang-tawa lang ang gaga.

"Nasa Italy ang buong barkada ng mga shunga," tawa niya kaya napasulyap ako sa
kanya, kuryoso.

"Oh?" I asked and I saw her smile widened.

"Oo, kasama 'yong bebe Warren mo..." she teased.

My cheeks flushed that I immediately look away.

"Ginagawa na namang alipin, kawawa naman..." bulong pa niya kaya sumulyap ako.

"Alipin?" I asked, lifting my brows.

"Gagawin ang utos ng mga pinsan para sa iniirog na Architect," she muttered and my
eyes widen.

"H-huh? Eh, w-wala nga kaming communication!" I exclaimed. "atsaka, b-baka may
ibang gusto na 'yon..."
"Lelang mo, Scira." Hagalpak niya. "Kahit dalhin mo 'yon sa strip bar, matutulog lang
'yon para walang manlandi sa kanya."

I froze, "maniwala..." nagbaba ako ng tingin at nangingiti. Kinuha ko ang kape at tahimik
na sumimsim.

"Oo, sabi niya, kay Scira Valderama lang kakalembang." Aniya at nabuga ko ang
iniinom sa gulat.

She is laughing her ass off, sumimangot ako habang umuubo at nagpupunas ng labi.

"Turuan na lang kita paano mang-akit at mangharot, may tips ako. Expert ako r'yan,
p'wedeng pick-up line o kaya paspasang landi—"

"Zirena!" I exclaimed loudly.

I am frantic now and stressed, I am having a peaceful life with work and playing with my
niece and nephews.

Nag-s-sleep over at tamang stalk lang sa halos walang lamang Instagram ni Warren
Miranda at bigla akong gugulantangin ni Zirena na may emergency sa Lost Island at
may problema raw ang renovation na responsible ako!

I am panicking, ni hindi sinabi sa akin ni Zirena ang problema kaya napapunta tuloy ako
sa isla! Handa na ang lahat, may plane ticket at service pa! May yate pang nakahanda
sa Casa Amara!
"Scira!" she jumped and waved at me, napanguso ako at hinawi ang buhok ko.

"What is it?" I exclaimed.

Ngumisi siya, inabot ang braso ko at hinila ako paalis sa board walk.

"Hoy, Zirena, anong problema? I should've brought my team with me, para maasikaso
kaagad. Saan ba? Sa may cabanang ni-renovate o—"

"Sshh, h'wag ka na maingay, matutuwa ka rito." Hagikhik niya at hinila pa ako.

I was so confused, she called me last night, panicking na may problema sa ni-renovate
kung saan ako ang nag-plano. Halos hindi ako makatulog kakaisip pero wala namang
sinasabi! Pag-gising ko na lang ng madaling araw ay may ticket na ako sa flight!

Agad-agad!

Na-s-stress na ako sa pinsan ko, kinukulit ko siya habang naglalakad kami sa may
cabin pero nakangisi lang siya sa akin.

"Seriously, Zire? Kung wala uuwi na lang—"

"May problema nga!" she insisted, "pero mamaya na, may papakilala muna ako sa'yo..."

I was confused but then slowly, nag-sink in na kung narito silang mag-asawa...p'wede
ring narito si Warren Augustine!
"I-is he—"

"Wala! Wala!" tawa niya at muli akong hinila.

Nakikita ko na ang cabin, nagtataka ako kaya kunot ang noo. Malaki naman ang ngisi
ng pinsan ko at mas hinila ako.

"Tara," Zire said and pulled me inside.

I froze on the spot when I met Augustine's black eyes. I saw how his mouth parted a bit,
nakita kong akmang inaayos pa niya ang shirt pero natulala nang makita ako.

I don't know what to say...my heart is thumping harshly it almost burst.

To my shock, napa-abante si Warren sa biglaang tulak sa kanya at tumama siya sa

akin. I gasped when our bodies met, nawalan ako ng balanse sa bigla at akala'y
babagsak pero mabilis niya akong nasalo.

Our eyes met, I couldn't explain how I feel now that my eyes are glued to his after so
many months...

He helped me up when I heard Caspian spoke.

"'Yong tinuro ko, go!" Caspian muttered softly and Warren gulped harder, his hands still
on my waist.

"Ma'am, asin ka ba?" he asked and I was shocked, napakurap ako at naguluhan.
"H-huh?"

"Kasi, I love you alat." He said and my jaw dropped.

Hindi ako nakasagot sa gulat, nag-init ang pisngi ko at natulala lang until I heard a
woman spoke.

"Anong tinuturo mo...Alcantara!" Lars hissed angrily and Caspian gasped and only
laughed awkwardly.

"O-oops," he whispered and lifted his fingers for a peace sign.

Napalunok si Warren nang wala akong naging sagot sa gulat, nabitawan niya ang
baywang ko, namumula na sa hiya.

"S-sorry..." napatikhim siya at nagpa-panic na kinuha ko ang cellphone sa bulsa at

iniangat.

"M-may charger ka ba?" I suddenly asked and he stopped and nodded.

"B-bakit?"

"Na-lowbatt kasi ako," I said. Nahuli ko ang pagkislap ng mata ni Zirena at ang unti-
unting paglaki ng ngisi.

"Well, yeah—"
"Na-lowbatt first sight sa'yo," I said smoothly and I saw how his jaw dropped. Natulala
ako nang humagalpak ang mga lalaki at tumili ang mga babae roon.

Kabanata 25

It was awkward and I am nervous, nagtatawanan sila pero nag-iinit na ang pisngi ko
kakaantay sa tugon ni Warren.

He looks taken aback, nakaawang ang labi niya at napasinghap ako nang mayamaya'y
suminghap siya.

"T-tuhod ko..." he muttered and I blinked when the boys behind him immediately took
his arm.

Gulat ako nang inalalayan nila si Warren paupo sa sofa, humahagalpak pa ng tawa.

Lumapit ako at nag-alala, I knelt in front of Augustine and searched for his eyes.
Namumula ang kanyang pisngi.

"Tin, are you—"

"Mas manghihina 'yan kapag ikaw na nagtanong," halakhak ng isang lalaki roon kaya
nag-angat ako ng tingin.

I saw the handsome man with black eyes, bago siya sa paningin ko at hindi ko pa
nakikita noon.
"You're new," I noticed.

He smiled and offered his hand, "I'm Luci—"

"A-aww! Aray!" nawala ang pansin ko sa lalaki nang dumaing bigla si Warren.

I was worried as I looked back at him again, umiwas pa siya ng tingin at ngumiwi.

"Ayan, gago!" tawa ni Vioxx at binatukan iyong may itim na mata.

"Does it hurt?" I asked softly and caught his eyes, napalunok siya at tumango sa akin.

"Y-yeah," he muttered.

"Saan banda?" I asked softly, humawak ako sa kanyang tuhod pero napatalon pa siya
roon at umiwas.

"D'yan," he answered me. "na...nakatayo kasi ako kanina pa."

"Huh?" I asked, "i-relax mo muna—"

"Tara na, bakla!" nagitla ako nang hawakan ako ni Zire at patayuin.

"Bakit?"
"Ayos na iyang Warren mo! 'Di ba, sis?" sulyap niya kay Warren na mas namula at
tumango-tango.

"Well, yeah..." he answered.

"Are you sure?" I asked and he nodded at me and licked his lips.

"Y-yes, thank you..." aniya at nagpahila na ako sa pinsan ko para maupo sa kabilang
sofa.

The boys are laughing, nagsisikuhan ng pasimple roon habang namumula si Warren.
Zirena dragged me to the other sofa where I saw the girls, may isang bago sa paningin
ko roon na kaagad ngumiti nang makita ako.

She has red hair and amber eyes.

"Hi! Sit ka here, oh!" she exclaimed in a cute accent.

Naupo ako roon at ngumiti, Zire went beside me, naupo siya sa may hand rest ng sofa
at natatawang hinaplos ang buhok ko.

"Very good, Scira. You did well doon sa tutorial natin." Hagikhik niya.

Natahimik ako, namula at sumulyap sa kanya.

"S-shh!" saway ko kahit nalulunod na sa kahihiyan.

"Wala, laos na 'yong tutorial mo, Cas." Hagalpak 'nung may itim na mata kay Caspian
na naiiling.

He was sitting on the hand rest, he's beside Warren. Nanliliit ang mata niya habang
minamasahe ang likod ni Warren.

"Sorry, mas magaling ang alaga ko, Caspian." Biglang tawa ni Zirena kaya nilingon ko
siya at tahimik na hinampas.

"Zire!" I hissed quietly and she just grinned at me.

"Babawi kami nitong alaga ko, akala mo!" Caspian hissed there and massaged
Warren's shoulder more. Umismid ang huli at pinalis ang kamay nito pero nangingising
ibinalik lang ni Cas ang kamay sa balikat niya.

Nagkatinginan kami ni Warren at sabay ding nag-iwas ng tingin, kumalabog ang puso
ko at naalala na naman ang lumabas na karimlan sa bibig ko.

Charger? Lowbatt? What the fuck, Scira?

Bad influence talaga itong pinsan ko, eh!

I glared at Zirena smiling widely when someone called us to eat. Dala-dala niya sa
Coraline na nakangiti sa akin at nang mahuli akong nakairap sa Nanay niya ay bigla
akong ngumiti.

"Come to Tita, baby." I called.

"Mommy, Tita muna!" she exclaimed kaya ngumiti ito at tumango.

I smiled and take her hand, "hello, ganda."

"Hello po, Tita pretty!" she giggled, her blue eyes staring at me.

Hawak ko ang pamangkin ko habang patungo kung saan kami kakain, turns out they
are celebrating today for a wedding, isa raw sa pinsan ni Wave ang ikinasal.

My bitchy cousin, Zirena, pranked me. Alam daw kasi ng bruha na miss ko na si
Augustine kaya pinapunta ako rito!

This woman! Yes, I missed Warren but...I was shocked! What I said earlier is
embarrassing!

I wasn't like that! I am always composed and all but kanina...damn it, I'm so
embarrassing!

Kaswal ang pakikipag-usap ko sa mga kasama namin sa isla yet I noticed their teasing
smiles and glances, miski si Winter ay humahagikhik habang bumubulong.

"Na-lowbatt din ako, pahiram naman charger!" she said and they laughed.

Nag-init ang pisngi ko pero natawa rin sa sinabi niya, nagkatinginan kami ni Warren at
sabay na natahimik nang magkatitigan.

Pumila ako kahit nahihiya para makakuha ng pagkain sa buffet table, may mga inihaw
din doon at kaagad akong natakam at nagutom.
I glanced at Zirena giggling in front of me while taking gummy bears from a plate, hawak
ni Wave ang isa niyang plato at natatawa sa kanya.

I frowned.

Bwiset kasi itong pinsan ko, I thought it's an emergency! Ni hindi ako nakakain kanina
bago ang flight tapos pasayaw-sayaw siya ngayon!

Kumuha ako ng pagkain, siguro ay dahil gutom na gutom ay mas natakam ako, napuno
ko ang isang platong hawak ko at may gusto pa akong kunin kaso ay biglang nahiya
dahil mukha na akong patay-gutom.

"Balikan ko na lang mamaya," I whispered, was about to go when someone behind me

spoke.

"Ako na kukuha," I almost jumped, napalingon ako at nakita si Warren sa likuran ko.

He's wearing a new shirt now, napansin niya ang pagtingin ko kaya nagsalita siya.

"Amoy kasi akong barbeque." He said at nanuyo ang lalamunan ko bago hinanap ang
mata niya.

"Ah," I only said, ashamed.

Kumuha siya ng isang plato, mabilis na tumabi sa akin at tinuro ang tinititigan ko kanina.
"Ito ba?" he asked and I nodded.

Kinuha niya ang pagkain na gusto ko at tahimik kong tinuturo sa kanya ang dessert na
gusto ko, walang pagod at reklamo naman siyang kumukuha 'nun at nakasunod sa
akin.

"Hatid na kita," aniya at tumango ako at ngumiti.

My heart is thumping harder this time, inihatid niya ako sa may lamesa roon at inilapag
ang mga pagkain ko.

"Muling ibalik, ang tamis ng pag-ibig sayang naman ang ating nakaraan!" sabay kaming
napasulyap sa gilid at nakitang hawak ni Caspian ang microphone at kumakanta roon.

Nag-init ang pisngi ko nang ngumisi si Cas, "mic check lang, mic check..." tikhim niya at
nagsalita na sa mic.

"Kung nagdadalawang-isip ang iba r'yan kung dapat na ba silang magbalikan, ito na
ang sign." Sabi niya roon habang nakatingin sa TV. "Magkabalikan na kayo, now na."

Tumikhim ako at nagbaba ng tingin, dinig ko ang hagikhik ni Zirena sa may tabi ko kaya
sinipa ko ang paa niya at pinanlakihan siya ng mata.

"Inaano ka?" tawa niya roon pero umirap ako at nanliit ang mata.

"Uhm, here, sige punta muna ako roon." Turo niya sa pwesto nila Vioxx at napansin
kong puno na kaya tumikhim ako at tinawag siya.
"Tin," I suddenly called kaya napasulyap siya sa akin. "uhm, puno na sila roon, k-kahit
ano...dito ka na maupo."

I saw how his eyes widen, "talaga?"

"Hmm," I flashed a small smile. "maluwang pa naman dito."

"Masikap na nga roon, eh." Sulyap niya kina Vioxx at ngumiti. "Sige, dito na lang ako."

He turned his back at me, hindi nakaligtas sa akin ang ngiti niya at ang mayabang na
pagsulyap niya kina Vioxx bago pumunta sa buffet table.

Nang maupo siya sa tabi ko ay tahimik akong kumain, masaya ang pakiramdam ko
habang nasa tabi ko siya at hindi ko na alam kung paano magbubukas ng topic.

"Here, masarap 'to." He suddenly offered the dessert kaya sumulyap ako roon at
nagtanong.

"Really?" I asked.

"Hmm, try it." Aniya kaya kumuha ako ng maliit na parte sa cake at tinikman.

I tasted it, kita ko ang tingin ni Warren habang tinitikman ko kaya ngumiti ako at
napatungo.

"Ang sarap nga," ngiti ko.

"I made that," he said kaya nagulat pa ako, magsasalita sana ako pero umangat ang
kamay niya at marahas akong napalunok nang dumampi ang daliri niya sa gilid ng labi
ko.

We stared at each other, kita ko ang pagdilim ng itim niyang mga mata, his hair fell on
his forehead and gulped.

"Ay, grabe, umuulan ng puso!" someone suddenly exclaimed and we both jumped,
naibaba ni Warren ang daliri at napanguso ako at nagbaba ng tingin.

"May kalat," he informed me kaya tumango ako at sumimsim ng juice.

"Thank you," I whispered.

Nagkasiyahan sila at naaaliw ako habang nanunuod, tahimik si Warren sa tabi ko at

nakikitawa sa mga kalokohan ng mga lalaki roon sa gitna.

I had fun chatting with the girls, natuwa akong makipag-usap sa kanina dahil hindi ko
damang dayo lang ako, it was as if I was invited here pero ang totoo'y inuto lang ako ni
Zirena na may emergency.

Noong sumapit ang gabi ay may ginawa silang camp fire malapit sa may dagat,
nagkakatuwaan sila habang nag iinuman kaya nagpaalam muna akong maglalakad-
lakad sa dalampasigan.

I walked near the shores, silently admiring the beauty of the island. Kagaya 'nung huling
pagpunta ko rito, hindi pa rin nababawasan ang angking ganda ng lugar.
The salt air is refreshing, malamig ang dampi sa balat ko. Halos maamoy ko na ang alat
ng dagat at dinig ko ang pagaspas ng mga dahon sa mga puno.

I raised my head and watched the bright stars hovering in the dark night sky, walang
buwan pero maaliwalas ang gabi.

I smiled, lifted my hand to try and touch the brightest star of them all with my
imagination. I chuckled when the tip of my finger reached it.

"Beautiful." I muttered.

"Maganda nga," naibaba ko ang kamay, mabilis na napasulyap sa may gilid at nagitla
nang makita si Warren na naroon sa may gilid ng malaking bato.

He's leaning on it, nakapamulsa sa khaki pants na suot, I saw how his hair danced with
the wind and my throat dried up when I realized how hot he looked standing there.

"H-hey," I called. "kanina ka pa?"

His lip twitched, umayos siya ng tayo at marahang naglakad palapit. Kumalabog ang
puso ko sa hindi maintindihang kaba habang papalapit siya.

"Yeah, nagpapahangin lang." He said when he reached me and lifted his face to glance
at the sky. "Ang ganda 'no?"

"Hmm," I hummed at pasimpleng inayos ang dress na suot.

I glanced at him again and saw how his eyes twinkled with the lights above the sky,
nangilid ang luha ko at gusto siyang yakapin pero nahihiya.

He glanced back at me and my mouth parted when he smiled, "how are you?"

Ito, miss na miss ka na...

"A-ayos lang naman," I smiled.

He moved his hand, halos mapapikit ako nang kunin niya ang iilang hibla ng buhok
kong nililipad ng hangin at inipit sa likod ng tainga ko.

"You wanna sit?" he asked.

Napakurap ako at biglang natauhan, "sure."

He offered his hand at nanginginig man ako sa kaba ay inabot ko iyon. His large
calloused hand touched my small and soft one, marahang inalalayan niya ako paupo sa
may bato roon.

Hindi ko pa nga basta maiangat ang pang-upo ko kaya mabilis niyang hinawakan ang
baywang ko para alalayan.

"Thank you," I smiled.

"Can I..." I saw him brushed his hair a bit and glanced at me. "sit beside you?"
"Oo naman!" I answered abruptly and bit my lip when I suddenly sounded excited. "I
mean, uhm, bakit hindi?"

His lips lifted, mas gumwapo siya sa paningin ko kaya nakagat ko ang labi at tumitig na
lang sa daliri ko.

He sat beside me, I shivered when our shoulders touched. It was an awkward silence,
rinig na rinig ko ang paghampas ng alon sa dalampasigan kaya nagdesisyon na akong
magsalita.

"Ikaw?" I tried sounding jolly. "kumusta ka na?"

He glanced at me, I saw his smile yet I noticed his eyes, kabaligtaran ang
ipinapahiwatig.

"Not really fine," he said and stared at me. "pero ayos na ngayon."

Nangingilid ang luha ko kaya nagbaba na lang ako ng tingin, nakita ko ang braso niya at
may pahabang peklat doon. Hindi mo siya mapapansin sa una pero kapag napatitig ay
mapapansin.

"Anong nangyari?" I exclaimed worriedly, mabilis na kinuha ang braso niya at sinuri.

Mukhang hindi pa matagal pero magaling na rin, I touched it and glanced at him, nakita
kong nagpipigil siya ng ngiti pero nang makita akong nakatingin ay biglang ngumuso.

"Masakit 'yan," aniya sa mahinang boses kaya muli kong hinaplos at bumuntong-
hininga.
"What happened?" I asked worriedly.

"Matagal-tagal na rin 'yan, we just helped someone." He answered.

"Oh?" I glanced at him. "kayo?"

"Hmm, sina Caspian." Aniya sa akin.

I nodded, understanding him, muli kong hinaplos ang braso niyang nakapatong na sa
may hita ko.

"Nagamot ba kaagad?" I asked and he nodded. "masakit pa?"

"Minsan," he answered and I sighed, nanatiling hinahaplos ang kanyang braso. Hindi
ako nagsalita at hinaplos lang ang braso niya.

"Can I touch your hand?" he suddenly asked kaya napatingin sa kanya.

"Hmm?"

"Uh, ano, baka makabawas lang sa sakit ng sugat ko." He said shyly and I found myself
nodding, suppressing my smile.

"O-okay, para mabawasan ang sakit." I said and offered him my hand.
Mabilis niya iyong nakuha, I saw how our fingers met, I watched him filled the spaces in
between my fingers with his and I felt the warmth on my chest while looking at it.

"They fit together," I noticed and I saw him smiled and nodded.

"Yeah," he said lowly.

Nag-angat ako ng tingin at nasalubong ang sa kanya. I glanced at his parted lips and
my throat dried up. I felt his grip on my hand tightened when he saw me. Nakita kong
bumaba rin ang tingin niya sa labi ko at nang lumapit ang kanyang mukha sa akin ay
mas kumalabog ang puso ko.

Suddenly, a song filled the background.

Baby I'm falling head over heels

Looking for ways to let you know just how I feel

I wish I was holding you by my side

I wouldn't change a thing 'cause finally it's real

Totoo nga na if you're in love, may pa-background music na naririnig kahit wala.

He moved his face closer and my eyes shut when I felt his breath touching my lips.

You're the right time at the right moment

You're the sunlight, keeps my heart going

Oh, know when I'm with you, I can't keep myself from falling

I was anticipating his kisses, I felt his other hand on my cheek, lifting it a bit so he can
claim my lips when the music suddenly stopped.

"Hala, amputa, na-lowbatt ako!" napatalon ako sa mga boses at napamulat.

Naitulak ko si Warren at mabilis na napalingon sa may batuhan sa gilid at nahuli ang

mga lalaking nakasilip para makiusyoso.

"Walang kwentang battery 'yan! Background music na nga! Akin na—" Wave pulled the
phone from Caspian's grip but then stopped when he saw me looking.

"Ah, uhm...hi?" Vioxx flashed a small, awkward smile and my cheeks flushed, mabilis
akong napalayo kay Warren at kumalabog ang puso.

"Tang ina..." Warren's mad voice filled my ear, bigla siyang tumayo at humarap sa mga
lalaking parang tuod na roon at hindi nakagalaw.

"Hi, Mars!" the man with black eyes waved and I saw Warren's head tilted and sighed.

"Halinga kayo rito..." he said impatiently and my eyes widen when the boys run away
with Warren chasing them.
Nangiti ako at hinawi ang buhok ko, napapailing.

"Ay iba, pumapag-ibig!" napalingon ako at nawala ang ngiti nang makita si Zirena na
may hawak ng phone at nakatutok sa akin. "Tignan mo, Daru, luma-lablayp na si Scira!"

My mouth parted, napatayo ako sa batuhan at nagmura ng kumaripas ng takbo ang

pinsan ko.

"Delete that, you brat!" I exclaimed at malakas ang tawa niya habang tumatakbo palayo
sa akin.

Unfortunately, I have to go home urgently the next day with Zirena and Wave with the
kids. Wala pang araw ay umalis na kami sa isla, hindi na nagawang makapagpaalam
nang tumawag ang Kuya Deion.

Turns out, Mom is in the hospital right now. Kagabi ay may nakuhang lead kay Ate Clyte
ang mga pulis kaya pinuntahan nila pero tanging walang lamang bodega lang ang
nakita nila at isang bangkay ng hindi kilalang babae.

According to the findings, it wasn't my sister yet my Mom was stressed, nahimatay na
lang pagkatapos magwala nang malamang may bangkay.

Umiiyak ako at si Zire ang karamay habang papauwi, pagdating namin sa ospital ay
naroon lahat ng mga Tito ko na kaagad akong inalalayan.

Pagkapasok ko sa hospital room ay tulog ang Mommy, si Dad ay nasa kanyang tabi at
hawak ang kamay niya.

"M-mom..." I ran towards her pero ang Daddy ang sumalubong para sa isang yakap.
"She's fine, nawalan lang ng malay-tao." My Dad comforted me kaya yumakap ako sa
Kuya Deion.

They told me what happened, patuloy pa rin ang imbestigasyon habang inaalam kung
ano ang identity noong bangkay.

"I promise to take care of this," I overheard Kuya Alchiel speaking to Dad and Tito Iñigo,
naroon din ang Tito Zeij at si Kuya Zion na nakikipag-usap sa mga pulis.

My phone beeped and my eyes landed on it.

From: Unknown number

I hope you're fine. Sorry, hindi na kita naihatid, I didn't know you'll leave early.

I sighed, closed my eyes and kissed my phone.

For weeks, we were in tight security again. Alalang-alala ang pamilya kay Mommy dahil
palagi siyang stress at umiiyak na naman.

We took care of her and when we found out the identity of the woman ay medyo naging
kampante. The woman was reported missing for months, nang makita ito ay tumawag
ang pulis at nagbakasaling kilala namin. Naibalik sa pamilya ang babae na iyon at
tumulong ang Tito Iñigo para sa hustisya sa kanya habang sina Kuya Deion, Kuya Chiel
kasama sina Kuya Zion ay nangunguna sa paghahanap pa rin kay Ate.

"We shouldn't lose hope," my Dad said. "our Clyte is alive."

I sighed and crossed my fingers.

"Of course, she is...she's still alive, Dad." I muttered.

My mom came back to her jolly self after weeks of cheering her up, sinabi niya sa aming
magbakasyon muna para hindi ma-stress.

"Come on, kids, have fun. Ayos lang ako." My Mom said while I was hugging her waist.

"Will you be fine?" bulong ko.

"Of course, I am." She said. "Na-stress lang ako at iniisip ang Ate niyo but I am fine
now, I know Clyte is a strong woman, she won't give up like that, she will be back to us.
I know it."

Ayaw ko pa sana but my Mom is pushing me, magagalit daw siya kapag inisip pa namin
ang lagay niya gayong ayos naman na siya.

So, I accepted a free invitation for a cruise ship tour.

Dear Miss Valderama,

Greetings!
Congratulations, Miss Valderama! You won a free boarding pass to sail in one of our
prestigious cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas. Witness our one of the kind attractions,
visit our stores and casinos, try our slides and pools and find love (if needed) on board!

We are pleased and excited to welcome you for a cruise ship tour, the accommodation
is free, no need to worry about anything because we got you here!

Have a nice stay! We are hoping to see you on board!

Regards,

Capt. Alessandro Castanier

CEO, Symphony of the Seas

I am wondering, wala naman akong sinalihang raffle o ano pero nanalo ako. Akala ko
nga noong una ay scam pero nang i-verify ko ay legit talaga kaya nakakatuwa.

I am excited, I am having a week or more stay here! Ayon sa mga review at videos na
nakikita ko ay maganda raw talaga sa barkong ito kaya excited ako!

Inayos ko ang shades ko, I fixed my bohemian inspired dress at tinanggal ang hat sa
ulo para ipakita ang boarding pass sa lalaki sa entrance ng barko.

"Scira Valderama," he read and glanced at me, mukha siyang suplado pero gwapo.
"Architect Valderama po, right?"

"Yes," I smiled and took my shades off.

"Oh..." bumilog ang bibig niya at siniko ang katabi niya at mukhang may binulong bago
ito umalis.

"This way, Ma'am." He said kindly, I noticed him wearing an officer's uniform.

Sumunod ako sa kanya habang nakangiti at inililibot ang paningin.

Ang ganda pala talaga rito! Si Zirena pa lang ang nakakapunta rito sa amin kaya
masaya akong ako rin! I'll probably bring my niece and nephews here soon kapag
bakasyon!

I am so amazed, hindi pa umaandar ang barko pero parang gusto ko nang tumili sa
tuwa! Malaki pa siya at mas maganda kaysa sa litrato lang!

"This will be your cabin, Ma'am." Magalang na sabi ng lalaki at napansing malaki at
maganda ang kwarto.

"Thank you," I smiled softly at him. "what should I call you?"

"Sebastian Baca," he smiled a bit. "Safety captain."

"Wow, you're an officer?" I exclaimed and he nodded.

I knew it!
"Have a nice stay, your lunch will be served in our restaurant in the upper deck. You can
enjoy the view and look around for now." Ngiti niya.

"Thank you!" I cheered and he left.

I am super excited, inayos ko muna ang bagahe ko sa kwarto bago inayos ang damit at
lumabas sa cabin.

Hindi kakasya panigurado ang isang araw para libutin ang barko sa sobrang laki! I took
pictures around, si-nend ko ang mga ito sa pinsan ko na nainggit kaya tinawanan ko.

Lumabas ako at nakita ang barrier, I smiled and walked towards it, sumandal ako roon
habang tahimik na pinagmamasdan ang payapang dagat at ang magandang araw.

The ship started sailing, kitang-kita ko ang mga taong lumalangoy sa pool sa may lower
deck. Sa kabilang gilid ay may mahabang slide at naisip kaagad na excited na akong
masubukan iyon.

I looked again below and froze when I saw someone familiar.

"Warren?" I muttered, kumalabog kaagad ang dibdib ko roon.

I forgot texting him back when he messaged me that day, nahiya na rin akong
magpapansin 'nung maalala ang text niya. I've been checking his Instagram and he got
a new project and now he's here too!

"Tintin!" I screamed at the top of my lungs and I saw him stopped walking.
He's wearing a black dress shirt and khaki pants, may suot na sun glasses at magulo
ang buhok.

"Tintin!" I exclaimed again and he looked around, as if finding my voice. Kumaway-

kaway ako roon sa taas pero hindi niya ako mahanap kaya suminghap ako.

"Tin—" my voice faded when I saw a girl calling him, napatingin doon si Warren at
kumaway ang babae at tumakbo palapit sa kanya.

My forehead creased when I realized it was the freaking blonde girl from the firm!

Hindi ko marinig ang usapan nila dahil nasa ibaba sila at kumapit ang babae sa
kanyang braso.

My eyes turned slits, nawala ang ngisi sa labi at halos manggilaiti sa galit sa nakikita.

What the hell? She doesn't have a right to cling on his arms like that!

Kumunot ang noo ko, kung may lumalabas sigurong laser sa mata ko ay dead on the
spot na ang dalawa sa ibaba!

"Baka naman ma-squeeze mo ng super ang steel." I froze when I heard a voice, mabilis
akong napalingon at nakitang may babae sa may tabi ko.

She has black hair and black eyes, kumunot ang noo ko kasi pamilyar siya pero hindi ko
masabi kung nakita ko na ba talaga.

Ngumiti siya at tumabi sa akin, dumungaw at may tinuro.

"You like ba 'yong pogi down there?" she pointed Warren and I blinked and cleared my
throat.

"I-I don't," I denied because she's a stranger.

"Oh, don't be shy na." She smiled again and she really is familiar! "you see, if you like
someone, go for it!"

"Sorry," I muttered. "but...I don't know you."

"Oh!" lumaki ang mata niya at napatakip sa labi, I noticed her stomach a bit big, siguro
ay buntis. "I'm sorry, I forgot pala na mag-introduce ng self."

I nodded and stared at her again, thinking she's awfully familiar to me.

"I'm G," she smiled and offer her hand.

"O-oh, G as in—"

"G as in Ganda!" She panicked and cut me off kaya napakurap ako at tinanggap ang
kamay niya.

"Your name's Ganda?" I asked curiously and she smiled and cleared her throat.

"Yeah," she said and looked away.

"Uh, sorry, I thought you are someone I know. G din ang tawag sa kanya. Hawig nga
kayo, eh." I said.

"Really?" she looked at me with wide eyes kaya tumango ako. "w-what does she look
like?"

"She has amber eyes and red hair kaya impossible, hawig lang kayo." I said and she
puffed a relaxed sigh.

"You're super tama, impossible na that is me kasi haler? I have black eyes and black
hair, impossible na that is me." She said, as if convincing me kaya tipid na lang akong
ngumiti at sumulyap ulit kay Warren na pinipilit mag-picture 'nung blonde.

Who's that woman, anyway?

"So, Scira..." she said kaya napalingon ako sa kanya.

"You know my name?" I asked, shocked and she immediately laughed, pinalo pa niya
ang barrier doon at ngumisi ng hilaw.

"Silly, you told me your name kanina! Parang crazy." She chuckled and my forehead
creased.

I did? Wala akong maalala?

"So, ayon nga, anyway, you like that gwapo?" turo niya ulit kay Warren kaya
napabuntong-hininga ako at tumango.
There's nothing wrong opening up to strangers, I guess?

"So, you like him?" she asked again and sighing, I nodded.

"Yes," I confessed and stared at him. I can feel my heart constricting painfully with the
sight of him laughing with the woman.

"Then, what's stopping you from being with him?" she asked.

"It's just...nagkakasakitan kami." I answered her honestly. "He lied to me in the past and
it broke my trust. Wala naman na siyang kasalanan pero nasaktan ko rin siya. I don't
know what to do now."

"Have you given him your patawad?" she asked in a cute accent and I nodded.

"I've forgiven him, he's the man more that I could dream of. May mali siya at may mali
rin ako." I said. "He's sorry, he gave me enough time to think, he respected me and my
decisions."

I sighed, "when I told him to back off, he did. He never forced me to forgive him. He...he
understands me." I sighed.

"Do you love him?" she asked.

"I do," I muttered.

"Can you imagine him with someone with you? Can you imagine him kissing someone
else? Can you imagine--"
"No!" I exclaimed, mas tumalim ang tingin doon. "The hell no! I don't want!"

Her lips pursed a bit, hinawi niya ang buhok at ngumiti siya sa akin.

"Then move," natigilan ako sa sinabi niya pero ngumiti lang siya lalo.

She honestly looked like one of the girls I met in the island but she has different hair and
eye color now.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"I do believe in happy endings, Scira. I always do pero I believe rin na if hindi ka
gagawa ng way to get the happy ending you like, nothing will mangyayari." She
shrugged.

"You see, parang circle lang 'yan. You two will be paikot-ikot with no endings, unless
may isang mag-iiba ng direction, gagawa ng move para matapos ang walang ending na
pag-ikot." She made a circle in her hand.

Parang sinampal ako at natauhan sa sinabi niya. I nodded, understanding her point.

"He did his part, you think he still loves you?"

I bit my lip and sighed, "it's been months when I told him to back off, mag-tataon na rin
but...I hope so."
"Then, go girl!" she cheered and raised her hand in the air. "you should make a move
and do harot!"

Bigla akong natawa sa kanya at ngumiti ako, tumatango.

"Alright," I muttered.

"Don't get threatened by other girls, he loved you first and I think Warren is still patay na
patay to you." She giggled. "Oh, I remember when he makes reklamo while mopping
the floor and I am having drama kasi Luci is such a bad boy--"

"Y-you know Warren?" nanlaki ang mata ko at napatalon siya at napahawak sa bibig.

Kumurap siya at napatitig sa akin.

"Did you--"

"U-uh, excuse me! I feel like nasusuka!" she turned her back on me, umawang ang labi
ko para tawagin siya pero hindi ko na nasundan dahil biglang naglaho.

I sighed, nawala si Warren at ang babae sa baba kaya bumagsak ang balikat ko.

I'm too late now...I think.

I sighed, nawalan na ng gana at nagmukmok na lang sa kwarto.

I'm such a bitch pa for not replying to his text, I forgot about it because of my family
needs and when I remembered it, nahiya naman akong sumagot pa.

I think I am having self pity while I was alone in my room. Sobrang ganda ng VIP suite
ko pero hindi ko masyadong ma-appreciate dahil sa nangyayari.

Life is like a circle, unless there'll be someone who'd change direction to stop an
unending chase.

I sighed and tried getting more courage to fight for it.

Hindi na ako kumain ng lunch pero may naghatid sa kwarto ng pagkain ko na ipinagtaka
ko.

"O-oh, thank you..." I said, amazed na may ganitong service sila.

The man smiled at me shyly, "eat well, Ma'am. Someone said you should never skip
meals."

My heart thumped, naisip kaagad si Warren pero alam kong hindi naman niya alam na
narito ako kaya nagpasalamat na lang ako at tahimik na kumain.

Noong gabi ko na naisipang lumabas para magliwaliw dahil wala naman akong
mapapala kung magmumokmok lang.

Wearing my halter top dress and silver pumps, I went out of my room. I tied my hair in a
high ponytail and stride towards the bars inside the cruise ship.
Kung maganda ang barko sa umaga, mas maganda pala kapag gabi. The whole place
is colorful, may ilaw ang mga slides at may mga performance pa. Naaliw ako sa
presentation doon pero gusto kong uminom kahit kaunti kaya nagtungo ako sa bar.

The bar is cozy, hindi man kalakihan ay maluwang at mukhang chill lang. May counter
at mga bartender, may nagsasayawan na rin sa stage roon at tumutugtog ang
magandang kanta mula sa DJ.

I moved my head to sway with the music, napansin ko kaagad ang tingin ng mga lalaki
roon pero wala akong pinagtuunan ng pansin at taas noong nagtungo sa empty couch
para maupo.

A few offered to buy me drinks but I refused, may gusto pa atang tumabi pero nakita pa
lang ang maldita kong mukha ay umalis na.

Scira Rosalie, you're just like your mother.

Nagkakasiyahan na ang mga tao roon at napunta ang tingin ko nang bahagyang
magsitayuan ang mga babae at lumapit sa paparating.

My forehead creased when I saw Warren walking inside sporting his black shirt
underneath his maong jacket and pants. Magulo ang kanyang buhok, ngumiti sa mga
nakasalubong at may humarang pa pero umiling lang siya.

I saw his dog tag dancing on his neck, he looked darkly handsome and attractive
striding towards the counter to get drinks.

Napainom ako ng alak nang may tumabi at sumubok sa kanyang makipag-usap.

"One more please," tawag ko ng pansin sa waiter na kaagad akong binigyan ng
panibagong baso.

I watched Warren quietly, biting my lip, I am tempted to come near him so I stood from
my seat to go when I saw a blonde walking towards him.

I froze, nakita ko kaagad ang pagtawa ni Warren nang makita ang blonde roon at
umiling kaya napabalik ako sa couch at tahimik na tumitig. I saw her moving her waist,
hinawi-hawi pa sa ere ang blonde na buhok.

Hindi ko makita ang mukha ng huli dahil sa dilim sa loob ng bar kaya kumunot ang noo
ko. The blonde woman does not look petite to me, medyo malaki ang katawan kaya it's
a bit weird.

Nakita kong nagbubulungan ang dalawa roon sa may counter, nagkakasayahan at may
nag-aaya sa aking sumayaw pero ang atensyon ko'y naroon lang sa kanila.

I can feel the painful thump inside my chest watching him having fun with someone
else. He's having a few drinks with him and I can see his smile clearly while talking to
the woman I couldn't see.

I was never the jealous type in my past relationships. I am the calm one, I am never
jealous. Kaya nga ako sinasabihang bato at walang pakialam ng mga boyfriend ko. I
care, of course, hindi nga lang ako sanay na ipinapakita ito sa mga tao.

I don't want anyone see my weakness dahil kadalasan, ang mga tao, if they saw your
weakness, they'll use it against you and I didn't want that. My family have seen me in
my weakest and I let them because I know they'll protect me, they would never use it
against me.
I glanced at Warren again and drank another glass of liquor.

I remembered being weak with Warren, I had no control over my emotions when I'm
with him because I know he understands and he won't judge, he'll never use it against
me, I'm comfortable and I'm in love with him.

Hindi ko alam kung nakailang baso na ako ng alak habang nakatitig sa kanilang dalawa.
They were laughing, kita ko ang pagsapok ni Warren sa batok 'nung blonde at kumunot
ang noo ko.

They're really comfortable, huh?

I clenched my jaw and sighed, muling uminom at nahilo na. My sight is kinda blurry that
I shut my eyes to compose myself.

Warren's leaning on the counter, pansin ko ang pagbaling ng blonde sa pwesto ko pero
hindi ko na siya matitigan dahil nahihilo na ako.

Damn it, Scira. Hindi ka pa rin nadadala sa iniinom mo?

I watched the two having fun until I couldn't bear it anymore. The anger and
possessiveness fueled inside my chest that I finished the remaining liquor in my glass
before standing to get some courage and heaved a deep sigh.

I walked towards them in big steps. Nakita ko pang nakadukwang na sa counter si

Augustine at nakasiksik sa kanya iyong blonde at humaharot.

My lips quivered, I was dizzy but I was fuming mad, nang makitang may binubulong na
ang blonde sa kanya ay hindi ko na napigilan sa sarili ko.
"Y-you bitch!" I exclaimed in so much anger, pulled the blonde's hair at napaalis ito sa
upuan pero bigla akong natigilan nang makitang naiwan ang blonde na buhok sa kamay
ko.

"Aww, aray, Cap!" may lumitaw na apat na lalaki sa may counter at isang babaeng
pamilyar sa akin na ngumiwi.

My eyes widen, mula sa blonde na buhok na hawak ko ay bumaling ang tingin ko sa

nakatayo na ngayon at 'yon na lang ang pagsinghap ko nang matantong lalaki iyon.

And...the blonde hair I am holding is just a wig.

It was the man with black eyes and medium length black hair!

"Y-you..." I muttered and I saw Augustine sat properly while staring at me with his
sleepy eyes.

Lumipat ang tingin ko sa lalaking nakatayo na at nang nakita akong nakatingin ay unti-
unting ngumiti.

"U-uh...issa prank?" he smiled awkwardly.

I gasped, kinagat ang labi, iritadong binagsak ang wig. Sumulyap kay Augustine na
napatayo na at umirap.

I turned my back at them, natahimik ang bar sa komosyon at pinagtitinginan ako pero
wala na akong pakialam at basta na lang naglakad paalis.
I am fuming mad, thinking I got fucking jealous for nothing! I can't believe they pranked
me like that!

Nagdadabog ako palabas at dinig na dinig ko ang boses ni Augustine sa likuran.

"Scira!" he called but I didn't listen, halos tumakbo na ako sa bilis na lakad ko pabalik sa
kwarto.

Nangingilid na ang luha ko sa galit at selos! Fuck it! Ang hirap naman magmahal!

I can hear his calls pero iritadong-iritado ako, I entered the elevator and watched him
walked towards it with his large steps.

"Scira, let's talk!" he demanded noong malapit na siya sa elevator pero tinaasan ko siya
ng kilay habang pinapanuod ang pagsara ng elevator.

"Scira, let's talk." I mocked and showed him my middle finger. "Fuck you, Augustine!"

The elevator closed, mabilis ang paghinga ko sa galit. Hindi maisip na magagawa kong
manabunot sa selos!

I know it was just a fucking prank but if it's true, may nasabunutan na ako! Damn it, I've
lost my control!

The elevator opened in my deck, nagmartsa ako sa walang taong pasilyo, kuyom ang
kamay at iritado.
"Scira!" I froze and looked back at napamura nang makita si Warren sa kakabukas na
elevator sa tabi ng akin.

"Fuck!" I cursed hardly and turned my back. Halos tumakbo na ako pero mabilis ang
yapak niya.

"Scira, mag-usap tayo!" he demanded and I rolled my eyes. "Are you jealous?"

Humigpit ang hawak ko sa pouch ko at natigilan. My heart thumped harder this time, my
knuckles forming a tight fist.

I heard his steps getting closer, "are you jealous?" he asked softly and my tears fell,
mas bumigat na ang dibdib at pakiramdam.

"Oo, bakit?!" I said bravely and glanced at him. I saw his serious face.

"Bakit ka nagseselos?" hamon niya, nakita ko ang pag-igting ng panga at suminghap

ako at nag-iwas ng tingin.

"Valderama," he muttered. "why are you jealous?"

"Paki mo?!" I exclaimed angrily, patuloy na tumutulo ang luha.

"Bakit ka magseselos?" he asked. "Hindi mo naman ako mahal, 'di ba? Then, why—"

"Yes, I am fucking jealous, Augustine! Nagagalit ako! I am mad you're happy with the
blonde woman! I was jealous because you have another girl aside from me! Nagagalit
akong may ibang nagpapasaya sa'yo! Nagagalit akong may gusto ka nang iba!" I
exclaimed frustratedly.

I saw his eyes soften a bit yet it became colder again and he relaxed, putting his hands
on his pocket.

"Then, why? Tell me, why are jealous?" he asked, parang wala lang ang tanong kaya
mas nainis ako.

"Because I love you!" I burst out. "Nagseselos ako kasi mahal kita! Mahal na mahal pa
rin kita!"

He froze, I saw him licked his lip, looking amazed than shocked.

"You do?" I saw him hiding his smile.

How dare he smile while I'm fuming mad right now?!

"New flash, yes, I do!" I exclaimed. "I love you, Warren Augustine! And I am fucking
jealous because you're mine! Akin ka, Augustine! Akin lang!"

My tears fell more, I sobbed and with my moving shoulders I pointed myself.

"M-mahal kita b-but you love someone else na! Ano pang silbi, 'di ba? G-gagalit ako
kasi akin ka lang!" I sobbed. "A-akin ka lang dapat pero—"

My voice faded when he marched towards me in big steps, pushed me on the wall
before cupping my cheeks and claiming my lips without saying anything to shut me up.
My eyes are wide, tila nanigas ako nang matantong hinahalikan niya ako, he squeezed
my cheek a bit so he could enter me and when he opened his eyes, I got lost in it that I
found myself kissing him back.

He dipped his head more, claiming my lips more. Nahulog ko ang pouch na hawak at
walang pagdadalawang-isip na iniyakap ang braso sa kanyang batok. We exchanged
deep kisses like it was the last time we'll kiss like that at kung hindi pa kami naubusan
ng hininga ay hindi pa titigil.

He stared at me with his sleepy black eyes and I glanced back at him while catching my
breath. He touched my lower lip, our faces only inches away. Our nose is almost
touching and I can hear my heart thumping harder each second we're this close.

"No one owns me but you, Ma'am." He said huskily, "I'm always yours. Sa'yo lang ako."

Kabanata 26

I am lost for words, nanatili kaming magkatitigan doon at hindi pareho alam ang dapat
na gawin.

"Congratulations to you two," sabay kaming napalingon sa matandang mag-asawa na

dumaan sa harapan namin.

"Congrats!" the old man grinned and slowly clapped his hand.

Sumabog ang init sa pisngi ko, nahila ko ang shirt ni Augustine at nahihiyang nagtago
sa kanyang dibdib at narinig ko ang mahina niyang tawa roon.
"Thank you," I overheard Warren saying to the two people.

"That's good, making up after a fight. That's what young married couples failed to do
nowadays, the reason why a lot of them cheat." I heard the woman say and I bit my lip
in embarrassment.

I felt Warren's touch on my waist, slowly pulling me to his body.

"Of course, I never want to go to bed with misunderstandings with my wife." I heard him
answer and I gasped.

Sinapok ko ang braso niya at narinig ko ang baritono niyang tawa.

"That's good, never sleep fighting. Talk before anything else, that's how relationship
work." The old man muttered.

"We should go, good luck with the marriage. Best wishes." The lady said.

"Thank you," Warren answered, I can sense the amusement in his voice.

Ilang segundo ang nakalipas sa katahimikan nang itulak ko si Augustine.

"You!" I punched his arms and he laughed, I saw him licked his lip and glanced at me.

"We shouldn't sleep with misunderstanding, wife." He said and my cheeks flushed.
I glared at him, natawa naman siya at pinisil ang pisngi ko.

"You're blushing, Ma'am." He noticed.

"I-ikaw kasi!" I groaned, mas natawa siya roon at marahang hinaplos ang pisngi ko.

"Hindi na, I won't tease you anymore." He said with amusement, pushing a few strands
of my hair behind my ears and pinched my cheek.

Tahimik ko lang siyang pinagmasdan, seryoso ako pero nangingiti na hindi ko

maintindihan. I can still feel the damp on my cheeks because of my tears.

"Don't cry," he said softly and dried the tears on my cheek with his thumb. "Kumain ka
na?" masuyong tanong niya.

"No pa," I said softly, hinanap ang mga mata niya. I saw him biting his lower lip,
suppressing his smile.

"You wanna eat?" bulong niya pa at marahang inangat ang baba ko para mas makita
ang mukha ko.

"Hmm," I hummed. "lutuan mo ko?" I asked in a small voice and he chuckled, kissing
my forehead and nodding.

"Yes, come on." He said, bumaba ang kamay niya sa palad ko. I watched him
intertwined our fingers and slowly pulled me towards the cabin.
Habang nakasunod ako at pinagmamasdan ang magkahawak na mga kamay ay hindi
ko maiwasang matuwa at kiligin. Napangisi pa ako pero bigla siyang lumingon kaya
ngumuso ako at nagseryoso.

Tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya at wala nang sinabi, nadaanan namin ang cabin ko kaya
hinila ko siya ng bahagya at tinuro ang kwarto ko.

"There's my cabin," I said and he nodded.

"I know," he answered.

"Then, saan tayo? May mga uncooked foods sa kwarto, we can—"

"I have foods in my room," aniya at pumunta sa pintuan katabi ng kwarto ko.

My mouth parted, napasinghap ako at nilingon siya.

"Magkatabi ang cabin natin?" I asked and I saw him shrugged and smirked at me.

"Oo nga 'no?" He answered, gulat pa pero parang 'di ako naniniwala and slowly pulled
me towards his room.

Gulat pa rin ako pero namamangha, pigil ang ngiti ko nang makapasok kami sa cabin
niya na halos katulad lang din ng akin pero nakakatuwa dahil sa kanya.

Bumitaw ako sa kamay niya at nakita ko ang pag-sulyap niya sa akin.

I smiled, kumapit ako sa braso niya at nakita ko ang pag-ngiti niya at inalalayan ako
papunta sa kusina.

Nang maupo ako sa may stool ay nanatili siya sa tabi ko, akala ko ay aalis na pero
nanatiling nakatayo roon kaya sumulyap ako.

"Hmm?" I hummed.

I saw how his smile lifted, touching my cheek a bit. Napapikit ako roon at napabuntong-
hininga, marahang inangat ang kamay para haplusin ang kanyang kamay.

"I miss you, Tin..." I whispered softly, opening my eyes and met his soft ones.

"I miss you too," he muttered, smiling a bit and cupped my cheek more. "is it really you?
Or I'm just dreaming?"

"Hmm, bakit naman?" I asked.

"Nothing, I just..." he laughed a bit, as if amazed. "I just can't believe you're here, baka
mamaya niyan pinaglalaruan lang ako ng isip. I'm afraid I'm just drunk and hallucinating
tapos kapag natauhan, mawawala ka na."

I can feel my chest constricting in pain. Ngumiti ako at mabilis na dinala sa labi ko ang
kamay niya.

I stared at his eyes while kissing it.

"It's really me, see?" I chuckled when I saw his eyes twinkled a bit and I shook my head.
"Seriously, Tintin?"

Hinila niya ang stool at excited na naupo, napatawa ako ng malakas nang ngumisi siya.

"Slap me." He said.

"Baliw ka ba?" tawa ko pa dahil mukhang nagloloko na naman.

"I'm serious," he said and I froze.

"Seriously?" I exclaimed and he nodded.

Bumilog ang bibig ko, umayos ng upo at hinaplos ang pisngi niya bago mabilis na
nagpatak ng halik sa labi niya. He froze and I smiled.

"Ayan? Okay na?" I asked.

"No, slap me." He muttered and I gasped, shaking my head.

"Hinalikan na kita, Augustine. Isn't that enough proof this is real?" I asked.

"Hmm," he put his hand on my lap and tilted his head. "Kissing you is like a dream,
so...nah. I don't wanna take any chances."

Natawa na naman ako at naaaliw na pinagmasdan siya, naiiling.

"Come on, Sha-sha, akala ko ba tayo ang super twins—fuck, Ma'am!" his eyes widen
when I slapped him without saying anything.

I saw how his eyes widen, napahagalpak ako nang ma-dramang iniangat niya ang
kamay sa pisngi at umawang ang labi.

"What..." he muttered. "you didn't say anything!"

"Nah, gising ka na?" I raised my brow, "walang sabi-sabi, slap agad."

Tumawa ako nang samaan niya ako ng tingin. I pinched his nose while he's glaring at
me.

"Ano, Tintin, 'di ba, hindi 'to panaginip?" I teased but gasped when he tilted his head
and claimed my lips.

My eyes widen, nanlaki ang mata ko at napasinghap, gulat na itinulak siya.

"Tintin!" I groaned, kita ko naman ang pagkislap ng mata niya, nangingisi.

"Just making sure this isn't a dream," he smiled handsomely, humaba ang nguso ko,
nag-iinit ang pisngi at pinalo ang braso niya.

"Super naughty," reklamo ko.

"Gusto mo naman," tawa niya at napaigtad ako nang tusukin niya ang baywang ko.
"Augustine!" I groaned, napaigtad ulit nang pisilin niya ang baywang ko.

I gasped, screamed while laughing, patuloy na pinapalo siya.

"Does it tickle, Ma'am, huh?" he teased.

"Oh my God, s-stop it!" tawa ko at pinalo siya ng malakas. He continued teasing me,
tawa naman ako ng tawa at halos sabunutan na siya.

I keep on pushing his hand but he's too strong for me, sa sobrang kaharutan pa ata
naming dalawa ay muntik na akong mahulog sa stool kung hindi niya lang ako kaagad
na nasalo.

My eyes widen when our nose touched, napasandal ako sa kitchen counter at
napakurap.

My heart thumped when I saw his black eyes staring at mine and immediately noticed
the desire on it. His gaze turned darker, I saw how his jaw clenched as his eyes fell on
my parted lips.

I can feel the heat gushing in between my legs, my eyes dilated and became more
darker with the sight of his face.

I saw how he gulped harshly, licking his lower lip sensually and spoke.

"I'm horny," he said straightforwardly, stopping me from thinking other things.

I can feel his hard on my stomach, mas bumilis ang paghinga ko habang
nakikipagtitigan sa kanya.

"I-I'm horny too," I confessed and moments later, we are busy kissing each other hardly
and deeply.

My hand is shaking as I removed his maong jacket, walang pasubaling kinakalas niya
rin ng maayos ang dress ko. He sat me on the counter, nahulog ang dress sa may
dibdib ko na mabilis kong hinubad at tinapon kung saan.

I saw him staring at me, smirking. "No brassiere, huh..."

"Oh, shut up. Take your damn shirt off!" I said impatiently and he laughed.

"Alright, chill, Ma'am." He smirked, pulling his shirt from his back and threw it
somewhere.

His silver dog tag fell on his naked chest and I licked my lip while watching his chest. He
moved closer to me, mabilis kong hinaplos ang dibdib niya at sinalubong niya ng halik
ang labi ko.

Our faces are aligned to each other now that it was easy to kiss mindlessly, I purred
when his hand found my peaks and slowly stroked it with his fingers.

"F-fuck..." I gasped loudly.

His kisses fell on my jaw, his other hand lifting my face so he can kiss me right. I felt
how dominant his moves are while kissing me this time. His other hand is claiming my
breast while the other is touching my jaw.
His wet kisses fell on my neck, giving me love bites.

I moaned and touched his nape, ramdam ko ang buhok niya roon kaya halos
masabunutan ko na siya habang nakapikit at umiigtad.

Halos mapahiga ako nang maramdaman ang halik niya sa dibdib ko. I gripped his hair
more, pushing me more to my breast as he sucked it like a hungry child.

"Fuck it, Augustine!" I groaned, mas napaatras sa counter at napasinghap nang may
matamaan.

Nanlaki ang mata ko nang marinig ang pagbagsak ng pinggan at pagkabasag nito.

"T-Tin, 'yong plato—"

"Sshh," he hummed, pushing me more on the counter.

"But—" hinarap ko siya pero umiling lang siya kaya isinara ko ang labi.

"Hayaan mo," he said and I gasped when he tilted his head, umayos sa pagtayo sa may
gilid ng counter habang halos nakahiga na ako roon.

I gulped harder when I saw him sexily unbuckling his belt, I licked my lip, napaupo pa
para tumulong sa kanya.

"Ang hirap naman nito!" reklamo ko.

I heard his laughter, tumungo ako habang hinihila paalis ang belt niya at naramdaman
ko ang paghawi niya ng buhok sa leeg ko at ang pagpapaulan doon ng maliliit na mga
halik.

"T-Tin..." I purred.

"Hmm," he hummed and bit my skin, I saw him licking the back of my ear, his tongue
moving from there down my neck.

I pushed his maong and boxers down and I gulped harder when I saw how his manhood
sprang free.

"Oh lala..." I said softly.

I heard his laugh, maya-maya'y lumayo sa akin at sinapo ang mukha ko.

"What? Oh lala?" he laughed, ngumuso ako at umirap.

"Bakit ba?" I raised my brow and he laughed again, pinatakan niya ako ng mabilis na
halik at unti-unting kinuha ang kamay ko.

My eyes dilated when I felt his love muscle against my palm, umawang ang labi ko at
mapaharap sa kanya.

I saw him sexily glancing at me with his dark eyes.

"T-Tin?" I asked.

"Stroke it," he commanded and my breath labored, natatakot sa una pero nang
maigalaw ang kamay ay medyo naging kampante.

I moved my hand, slowly at first, it was hard because my fingers couldn't even reach
each other while I'm holding him but when I saw how his breathing labored, mas
ginanahan at nakampante ako.

I watched as his eyes closed, his mouth parted while I pumped him harder. His hair fell
on his forehead more, kita ko ang pagkatensyon sa kanyang mukha sa ginagawa ko.
He looked like he's living for my strokes and I licked my lip.

"Masarap?" I asked and he licked his lip and nodded, napahawak siya sa hita ko at
marahang pumisil doon.

"Augustine," I called again. "Masarap?"

"Fuck, yes..." he said in a deep voice.

Confidently, I stroked him a bit faster and rougher this time, kitang-kita ko anag pagbilis
ng paghinga niya. His face fell on my neck and I gulped, stroked him more.

I can feel him reaching his peak but then, he suddenly took my hand, gulat ako nang
alisin niya ang kamay ko roon at hinarap ako.

"Why?" I asked, confused. "A-ayaw mo ba?" bigla akong kinabahang hindi niya gusto
ang ginagawa.
"No, I liked it very much." Aniya.

"Then why..."

"I want my cum inside your pussy," he muttered and my throat dried up.

Hindi ko alam kung paano mag-re-react, napalunok ako ng marahas nang i-angat niya
ang kamay ko. My eyes darkened when I saw him licking my fingers while staring at my
eyes.

I placed my other hand on his shoulder, pulling him towards me but he moved a bit,
kissing my fingers.

"Later, baby." He said and I gulped harder when he moved away and moved his hands
on my panties.

I watched him removed the only cloth covering my body and I gasped when I saw how
he parted my legs to see my feminity.

"Tin..." nahihiyang ikinipot ko ang paa but he moved my legs more.

"No, spread it more, Ma'am." He said lowly.

"B-but..."
"I wanna see that tight pussy," he said and I felt like burning in desire, parang napapaso
ako sa sinasabi niya.

"Fuck me," I said bravely and his lip twitched, hinawi niya ang buhok ko at inilagay sa
likod ng tainga ko.

"How about we make love?" he asked and my forehead creased.

"Isn't it the same?" I asked and he chuckled, giving me a quick kiss and touched my
part.

Umawang ang labi ko roon at humigpit ang hawak sa kanyang balikat.

"Making love is a soft and gentle one while fuck is harder and rougher," he said darkly.
"what do you prefer, Ma'am?"

"How about both?" I asked and stared at his eyes. "I want you to do both, Augustine."

"Gladly," he smirked at me. "I'll fuck and make love to you. Anything for you, Scira.
Anything."

I smirked pero napatili pa nang basta niya akong binuhat at ibinalik sa stool, he pushed
me a bit, napasandal ako sa counter at walang pasubaling hinawi niya ang hita ko at
hinaplos ako.

He fucked me with his fingers, I can feel my toes curling while watching his fingers do
the move.
"You like it?" he asked and I nodded.

"Yes, yes!" I nodded, kumuyom ang kamay at hindi na alam kung saan na hahawak.

"Still wet, huh?" he chuckled and withdraw his fingers, licking it clean with my juices still
in there. "Basang-basa ka."

I was never this horny, yes, we already made love but that was too sudden, halos hindi
ko na maalala ang mga nangyari sa sobrang biglaan pero ngayon? I don't know
anymore, para akong sinisilaban.

He stroked his member a bit, mas ibinuka ko ang hita nang iparaan niya roon ang
kanya. He rubbed his member on my part, ayon pa lang ang ginagawa ay parang
sasabog na naman ako.

"F-fuck, Augustine!"

"What, hmm?" he licked his finger and rubbed it on my clit while his member is still
teasing me.

"Just...just fuck me already!" I groaned, losing my sanity now that he smirked sexily at
me.

"This is the impatient Miss Perfect, huh?" he rubbed me more, teasing me.

"Fuck you, Augustine!" iritadong sabi ko na.

"Alright, alright, I will..." he chuckled lowly and glanced at my eyes.

"I love you," he smiled and my heart thumped, I moved my face and kissed his lips
briefly.

"I love you too," I whispered. "but I'll love you more if you'll fuck me now."

Humalakhak siya, hinampas ko siya nan ang-aasar na pero tinawanan lang niya ako at
humalik. We exchanged deep kisses until I felt him entering me fully, my face fell on his
neck, I gripped his back and met his member.

"Fuck!" he breathe deeply and moved a bit. "fucking tight, Ma'am. So fucking tight."

Our moans filled the room, I can feel the stool moving as he fuck me hard, naririnig ko
ang langitngit nito sa tiles at umawang ang labi ko at napasinghap nang tumama ang
likod ko sa may counter.

"A-aww..." I purred and he stopped, his eyes immediately found mine.

"Are you hurt?" he panicked and I bit my lip.

"Kaunti lang, medyo ano, dahan-dahan lang." I said softly and he chuckled, kissing my
lips briefly.

"Alright, I'm sorry. Sabik lang." Tawa niya.

Inilipat niya ang kamay sa likuran ko para hindi ako tumama sa counter at muling
gumalaw. I can feel my muscles stretching so I could meet his length, ang ingay-ingay
ko na nga ata pero wala namang makakarinig kaya wala na akong pakialam.
I squeezed his round, fluffy ass, pushing him more inside me.

"Fuck," hapong bulong niya at humalik sa labi ko.

I was so lost with the fire in between us, we exchanged deep kisses, making love like
we'd never do it again. I was gripping his hair, halos magpakarga na ako sa kanya at
mahigpit ang hawak niya sa likuran ko para hindi lang ako tumama sa counter.

I can hear the stool making squeaky sounds and I felt like my butt will fell from it kaya
napakapit ako kay Augustine.

"Augustine!" I exclaimed at mukhang nadama niya iyon at mabilis akong iniangat.

My eyes widen when the stool fell, nabuhat niya ako nagkatinginan kami ni Warren at
kita ko ang pagpigil niya ng ngisi.

"Nasira ang stool, Augustine!" I groaned and his laughter roared, pinalo ko siya pero
humahalakhak lang siya.

"Yari tayo kay bombay," he muttered and glanced at me with amused eyes.

"P-paano 'yan?" I asked softly, quite nervous kasi nasira ang stool at natumba!

"Hayaan mo, palitan ko pa 'yan ng bente." He smirked kaya tinampal ko siya.

"Asshole! How would you explain that?!" I exclaimed and he just caught my lips for a
quick kiss before winking.

"Ako bahala, let's continue this in my room." He said and kissed me again.

We looked like a fool missing each other that much that we are making love nonstop.
Hindi na kami nakaabot sa kwarto niya at ang ending ay nasa hagdan kami natapos at
panibagong round na naman ang sa kanyang kwarto.

He's insatiable, I mean, grabe si Augustine!

I can't believe he has the stamina of a horny teenager! Ayaw magpaawat!

I woke up at six AM and realized I only slept for three hours. Napatawa ako, I can
actually sleep for more hours pa but I think I have this body clock set up for my early
meetings and appointments.

Kadalasan kasi ay six or seven ako nagigising para mag-ayos at makapasok sa opisina.

I glanced beside me and chuckled when I saw the cute Warren Miranda on my arms,
clinging like a five-year-old kid. Malalim ang tulog niya habang nakahiga sa braso ko at
nakasiksik sa dibdib ko.

I smiled, brushed his hair a bit and kissed his hair.

"I love you," I whispered while he's sleeping soundly beside me. "Mahal na mahal kita."
After a few moments of amazement and adoring my cute Tintin, I decided to cook for
him. Breakfast ba, I admit, I still have no skills with kitchen stuff but I keep on trying.

Tinuturuan nga ako ng Mommy palagi pero may problema ata ang kamay ko at ayaw
sumunod.

But at least I can try? For Warren?

Marahan akong tumayo sa kama, dahan-dahan para hindi magising ang huli at
napangiwi nang maramdaman ang sakit sa pagitan ng hita.

I gasped, walked towards the closet and saw his shirts inside. Kumuha ako ng isa roon
para suotin bago ako nagtungo sa kusina para sumubok magluto.

I saw a pancake mix and eggs, binasa ko ang steps sa likuran ng karton at binuksan
ang mix. I almost coughed when the powder flew on my face, natakpan ko ang ilong at
lumayo.

"What the fuck?" I cursed and shook my head.

Inilayo ko ang mix sa mukha ko at binuhos sa bowl na nasa lamesa pagkatapos ay

kumuha ng itlog at binasag sa may pancake.

I frowned when some of the egg shells fell on the mix but I shrugged it off.

"Ang mahalaga, makakain. 'Di 'yan nakakamatay." I convinced myself pa bago kakanta-
kantang hinalo ang specialty ko.
Inayos ko ang kawali at nagpainit ng mantika, 'nung medyo hot na ay kinuha ko ang
pancake at nagbuhos doon sa kawali. When it's round na, or at least, medyo bilog na,
hinayaan ko at inantay.

A phone rang, kumunot ang noo ko at sumunod doon at nakitang may umiilaw doon sa
may gilid ng counter, napangiwi pa ako nang makita ang sirang stool at napailing.

I saw Warren's phone, kinuha ko iyon.

Bombay calling...

My forehead creased, sinagot ang tawag at idinikit sa tainga ko.

"Hoy, Warren? Ayos na kayo?" I heard a man's voice in the other line. "Hoy, gago!
Ayusin mo na, ayaw akong kausapin ng asawa ko kapag magkaaway kayo!"

Napakurap ako.

"Sige na, hoy! Isinaalang-alang ko ang dignidad ko para maging kaharutan mo kagabi,
gago! Kapag hindi pa kayo nag-ayos ni Architect, ako naman ang yari sa asawa ko—"

"Uhm, hello?" I decided to speak.

Natahimik ang kabilang linya, akala ko ay hindi na sasagot pero mayamaya'y may
nagsalita.

"Uh, Architect?" he asked.

"Yes," I said. "who's this?"

"Ah!" bigla siyang tumawa roon, "this is Lucian, ayos na kayo? Nasaan si Mars?"

I bit my lip, umupo ako ng maayos at nagsalita.

"Well, yeah. Okay na kami. Warren is still sleeping."

"Oh..." I noticed his amusement, "sandali ah, ayos lang ba kung ipapakausap kita sa
asawa ko? She won't talk to me unless you two fixed your relationship."

"Sure, sure..." I said.

"Ming ming!" he called. "Scira wants to talk to you, they're fine now!"

Umupo ako sa maayos na stool, I swayed my feet while waiting for her and she was
there after a while.

"Hello, Scira! Magandang morning!" she greeted and I chuckled.

"Hello, G?" I said. "It's G, right?"

"Yes," she chuckled. "Kumusta na kayong two? Okay na kayo? You're not magkaaway
na?"
I nodded, smiling. "Yeah, we're good now."

"Yey!" she cheered. "That's good to marinig! I'm glad na okay na kayo!"

"Hmm, okay naman na. We just had a misunderstanding." I answered.

"That's great, morning na. Let's eat!" she cheered.

"Oh, I'm still preparing pancakes for breakfast." I answered her.

"Oh, I want pancakes!" she stopped. "Luci! Pancakes! Cook me pancakes!"

Natawa ako sa sigaw niya, mayamaya'y humagikhik siya at nagsalita ulit.

"Sorry for that, Scira. Luci is cooking kasi, nagpa-cook lang ako ng pancakes kasi
parang I'm natatakam. Yummy!" she answered me and stopped for awhile.

"Anyway, nagkainan na kayo?" she asked and I froze.

My eyes widen, biglang naisip 'yong ginawa namin kagabi, I gulped harder, gasping a
bit.

"W-well, uh—"

"Uh, sorry, I mean kumain!" she said. "Kumain na kayo?"

Nakahinga ako ng maluwang, ngumuso ako at suminghap doon. Nag-iinit ang pisngi sa
kahihiyang naisip.

"Uh, k-kakain pa lang." I laughed awkwardly. "Luto pa lang ako pancakes." I answered
instead, napasulyap sa sirang stool at marahas na napalunok.

The first pancake I made is a disaster. Humaba ang nguso ko nang matantong maitim
ang isang parte at maayos naman ang kabila.

Damn it! Wala na akong future maging housewife! I should learn more! Paano na ang
mga anak namin ni Augustine kung hindi marunong magluto ang Mommy?

"Scira..." I froze when I heard a voice, lumingon ako at nangunot ang noon ang makita
si Augustine na pababa ng hagdan, he's wearing his boxers and nothing else, magulo
ang buhok at palinga-linga.

"Shit!" he cursed, mukhang naghahanap, mukha siyang balisa kaya itinaas ko ang
hawak kong spatula at tinawag siya.

"Hi, Tintin!" I called.

He shifted his gaze, I saw how his mouth parted. His eyes widen and his shoulders
relaxed when he saw me, hindi na ako nakagalaw sa gulat sa bigla niyang pagtakbo
patungo sa akin. Halos mapaatras ako sa gulat nang yapusin niya ako at sumiksik sa
leeg ko.

"Warren?"

"Fuck," he said in a shaking voice. "fuck, I thought you left me!"

I blinked, nawala ang ngiti ko at inangat ang kamay at hinaplos ang buhok niya.

"Tin," I called.

"Fuck, akala ko..." he whispered and squeezed me more.

"I won't leave you, okay?" I hummed and slowly kissed his hair.

"Y-you won't?" he asked in a small voice and I smiled, nodding.

"Yes, I won't." I whispered. "I'm just here, baby. I love you."

Slowly, he relaxed, hinaplos ko ang batok niya at nang kumalma ay marahang itinulak
siya at sumulyap sa kanyang mukha. I caressed his cheek, tiptoed to kiss his lips and
smiled.

"Good morning, Tintin. Mahal na mahal kita." I muttered.

His eyes soften, hinaplos niya ang buhok ko at marahang inilagay sa likod ng tainga ko.

"I love you too," he breathe. "I love you so much too, Ma'am."

"Talaga?" I smiled, my heart hammering inside my chest. "Gaano ka-love?"

"Hanggang langit," he smiled cutely and kissed the tip of my nose. "Kay Scira lang
kakalembang."

I burst out laughing, pinisil ko ang ilong niya at natatawang hinuli niya ang baywang ko
para paliguan ako ng halik sa mukha.

I sighed when I realized na walang matipuno sa pancakes na niluto ko, bagsak ang
balikat ko at suminghap.

"S-sorry, failed again." I muttered. "Ta-try ko na lang ulit—"

"This is good," my eyes widen exaggeratedly when he ate the black pancakes.

"Augustine!" I exclaimed but he just shrugged and ate the whole one again.

"What the—" kinuha ko sa kanya ang plato pero muli niya iyong inagaw sa akin.

"No, kakainin ko." Giit niya kaya napailing ako.

"That's a horror pancake, Warren! I-I tasted it and it's mapait kasi sunog! How about we
call the resto and—"

"Sshh, masarap nga." He said, staring at me while he's chewing the horror pancakes I
made.

I pouted, hindi na nagawang agawin ang plato dahil naubos na niya ang pancake na
sunog na iniluto ko, parang naawa naman ako sa t'yan at lalamunan niya na kinain ang
disaster na iyon pero parang wala lang sa kanya.
I even saw him touched his stomach when he's done and smirked.

"I'm full! Ang sarap!" he said but I glared at him.

"H'wag mo nga akong bolahin," reklamo ko pero ngumuso lang siya at umiling.

"I'm not," he smiled, walked towards me and cupped my cheek. "Masarap, I mean it.
Everything you do is great, you're the best, Ma'am." He smiled and gave me a kiss.

Hindi na ako nakaimik at namula na lang nang ngumisi siya, hinampas ko ang braso
niya at natatawang humalik siya sa noo ko at nagluto ng totoong agahan para sa akin.

He didn't eat because he's full and told me he'll take a bath first, ako na lang ang
kumain at nangingiti. I feel happy and contented, masaya akong kumakain ng luto niya.

When I'm done eating, gusto ko na rin maligo kaya hindi na ako nagpaalam at tumayo
mula sa hapag pagkatapos mag-ayos. I walked out of his cabin to go back to mine, suot
ko pa rin ang shirt niya at dala ang key card ay lumabas ako pero natigilan nang makita
ang babaeng blonde na nasa tapat ng unit niya.

My forehead creased, I saw how her mouth parted when she saw me went out of
Warren's cabin.

I knew her face, kasama siya sa team nila Warren noon but I never had the chance to
know her name.

"Who are you?" baling niya kaagad nang makita akong lumabas doon.
I raised my brow, umayos ako ng tayo at ngumiti.

"Oh, you didn't know, I believe we met before." I said.

Nakita ko ang pagkunot ng noo niya, alam kong kilala niya ako sa paraan ng pagtingin
niya.

She looked bitchy to me. She crossed her arms on her chest while glancing at me from
head to toe.

"You? Care to tell me your name?" I asked and her brow raised, smirking at me.

"Jasmine Sanchez," she said. "Warren's girlfriend."

My mouth parted, hindi ko alam pero bigla na lang akong natawa at napailing sa kanya.

"Girlfriend...what?" I chuckled a bit.

"Bakit, sino ka ba?" she asked me, "kasama ko si Warren papunta rito, I'm his girlfriend
and—"

"Ang dami pala talagang assumera sa mundo, ano?" I said and I saw her froze, "may
mga taong mag-aangkin ng mga taong hindi naman talaga kanila."
"I'm his girlfriend!" she exclaimed. "Ikaw, sino ka ba, huh? If I know, you are just his
bitch! Ano, sumunod ka ba rito dahil hayok ka? I saw how you flirted with him in the
island! If I know, nakita ka lang niya sa bar kagabi at—"

"Oh, too bad people cheat when they aren't satisfied, eh?" I smirked. "Kayo pala? Your
said boyfriend just had sex with me."

"Y-you..." namula siya at tinuro ako. "y-you have no right! You're just his bitch! Ako ang
kasama niya noong wala ka!"

"Oh, pero sa akin pa rin uuwi pagbalik ko?" I smiled softly. "Kawawa ka naman, na sa'yo
pala noong wala ako pero pagbalik ko sa akin pa rin umuuwi, ano?"

"Pinahiram ko lang siya sa'yo!" she exclaimed. "N-nagpaalam siyang kikitain ka! He just
wanted to fuck you and leave you after he's done with you!"

"I feel bad for you," I said, shaking my head. "Kapag sa'yo, sa'yo lang dapat, don't let
anyone steal what's yours. Bakit ka nagpapahiram? Charity case?"

"Y-you..." mas namula siya, sasabog na sa galit. "get away from here! Kakausapin ko
ang boyfriend ko!"

"Uh-hmm," I said and crossed my arms on my chest. "Okay then, enjoy."

The door suddenly opened, nagulat pa ako nang may yumakap sa likod ko.

"There you are! I said wait for me, ihahatid kita sa kwarto mo." Warren cling on me,
burying his face on my neck and kissed it.
Tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko nang makita ang pag-awang ng labi 'nung Jasmine kaya
marahang kinalabit si Warren.

"Grabe, miss mo naman kaagad ako, Sir." I said softly.

He chuckled on my ear, hugging me more.

"Of course, kung p'wede ka lang idikit sa akin, ginawa ko na." Tawa niya at nakita ko
ang pagsinghap 'nung babae.

"Uh, sorry, may bisita pala." Hagikhik ko at muling kumalabit. "Hey, baby, seems like
you have a visitor."

Warren stopped kissing my neck, naramdaman ko ang pag-ayos niya ng tayo at

nasulyapan ko siyang bagong paligo at basa pa ang buhok. His arms were immediately
attached on my waist, slowly caressing it as he glanced at the stunned woman.

"Miss Sanchez," he called. "what brought you here?"

Miss Sanchez, huh? Mas lalo akong natawa sa isipan.

"Uh—I just..." she gulped and stared a bit at me, umirap pa siya kaya pinalambot ko ang
mukha, kunwari ay mabait. "I just wanted to visit you, 'di ba, may project pagkatapos ng
tour?" nanginig pa ang boses niya.

"I have sent you the files, it's in the email. Lahat ng importanteng detalye ay naroon na."
Aniya sa seryosong tono.
"G-ganoon ba?" her voice trembled a bit. "May ano, may hindi kasi ako nasabi."

"Okay, sure, we can set a meeting after this vacation." I saw Warren smiled a bit,
"anyway, baby, this is Miss Sanchez, my colleague." He introduced me to her and she
gulped harshly.

"Miss Sanchez, this is Scira Valderama, I know you met her before, right? My girlfriend."
He said and I saw how she almost lost her color.

She looks shocked and taken a back so I flashed a smile, as if I'm a good and friendly
individual and offered her my hand.

"Hello, Miss Sanchez. How rude of me, I forgot to introduce myself." I stopped and
giggled cutely.

"Scira Valderama, the legal girlfriend." I said, smirking proudly while watching her
reaction.

Kabanata 27

"Ano na naman 'to, Miranda? Libre na nga naninira ka pa ng gamit?!" Lucian exclaimed.

I bit my lip, kunwari ay abala sa pagtitipa sa cellphone ni Warren at walang pakialam sa

dalawa pero sasabog na ang pisngi sa init.

"Papalitan ko—"
"Parehas kayo 'nung pinsan mo, papalitan daw ang utang wala namang ibinabayad!"
Lucian hissed, sumulyap ako sa kanila at naabutan siyang nakapamaywang doon sa
harapan ni Warren.

Warren's pouting, nakahalukipkip habang nakasandal sa may kitchen counter, nang

lumingon ako ay nagkatinginan kami at nakita ko kaagad ang ngisi niya.

I scoffed and he winked, napaubo ako at nag-iwas ng tingin.

"Papalitan ko nga sabi," Ani Warren doon sa kanya.

"Aba, pati 'yan plato, mahal 'yan!" he hissed. "that stool is from the palace in Italy!
Inarbor ko lang 'yan tapos sisirain mo?"

I bit my lip, halos masugatan na ang labi sa kahihiyan.

"I'm drunk last night, bumbay." He answered. "Hindi ko napansin kaya nasagi at
nabasag."

"Oh, then explain the stool. Bakit bali ang paa niyan, aber?" namaywang pa ito at
lumunok ako, mas sumandal sa couch kung saan kitang-kita ko ang usapan nila sa loob
ng kusina.

"Nung nahawi ko 'yong plato, natumba 'yong stool tapos naupuan ko." He explained
and I nodded because he have a point.

P'wede na, Warren, good boy.

Nagkatinginan kami, he winked and I showed him my thumbs up but stopped when
Lucian suddenly shifted his gaze. Mabilis kong ibinaba ang kamay nang mahuli niya
ako.

Nanliit ang mata niya, hinawi ang buhok at sumimangot.

"Tang ina mo, Miranda. Alam ko na!" he exclaimed at unti-unti akong lumubog sa sofa
para ibaon ang sarili at maglaho sa mundong ibabaw.

"Anong alam mo? Lasing nga ako, gago!" Warren answered, sounding defensive kaya
suminghap ako at itinabon ang unan sa mukha.

"Oh, hello! Magandang morning mga people!" I heard a voice. "Oh, Scira? Don't cover
your face with the unan, baka mawala ang breath mo."

Naibaba ko ang unan, nanlaki pa ang mata nang makita si G na pumasok sa cabin,
she's wearing a yellow dress with her baby bump showing.

She waved at me, kumaway ako at awkward na ngumiti.

"Wait lang, Scira." She smiled and went to the kitchen to greet her husband.

"Hi, Luci-patootie!" she cheered then kissed his cheek. Humawak sa baywang niya ang
asawa at humalik bago bumaling kay Warren.

"Warren, hi!" she cheered.

"Hello, G." He smiled. "Away ako ng asawa mo."

"Very bad!" she hissed and smacked her husband, natawa ako nang parang maging
maamong tupa si Lucian doon kaya napailing ako. "Say sorry to Warren!"

"What—"

"Isa! Outside ng kwarto ka mag-sleep!" she threatened and I laughed, amused.

After the commotion inside the kitchen, kita ko ang paglabas ni Lucian ng maliit na
notebook at ipinwersa na ipapirma kay Warren, napasulyap naman ako kay G na
humahagikhik sa tabi ko.

"They have the bond kasi na unbreakable, sila 'nung cousins niya and tang ina boys
and Master Warren." She explained.

"Tang...ina boys?" my forehead creased, tumawa siya at umiling.

"Long story, Scira but they're my family." She smiled at me. "Yan si Luci, lambing lang
ang debts niya for them."

"But...sinisingil niya?" I asked and she nodded.

"Yes pero punch sa moon if they'll pay for it," she shrugged.

Napangiti ako at napatango.

"May principle kasi ang boys, may bond sila na unbreakable and that is the utang. They
said if they will pay for the utang, baka mawala ang bond." She said and I burst out
laughing, naiiling sa sinasabi niya.

Someone knocked on the door, napasulyap kami roon at nakitang isang pamilyar na
officer ang pumasok. 'Yong mukhang masungit.

Diretso ang lakad niya, kita ko ang ngiwi ni G doon ito sa amin.

He extended a familiar pouch, umawang ang labi ko at napaayos ng upo.

"I believe this is yours, Architect." Tipid niyang sabi at inabot ko iyon.

Oh my God, I totally forgot about this pouch!

"Y-yes, this is mine, saan...uhm, saan mo nakita?" I asked.

"Someone found that outside and brought it to the lost and found." He said formally at
napangiti ako at tumango.

"Thank you so much!" I said and smiled.

"Welcome," he said formally and glanced at G.

I noticed his face become sour and stuck his tongue out to G, biglang natawa ako roon,
lalo na nang sipain siya ng huli.
"Basher!" she hissed.

"Niluto ni Romeo 'yong tuhog-tuhog, kinakain namin, paubos na." Bigla itong ngumisi
and I saw how G gasped and stood.

"No! I bought that! Tirhan niyo me!" she exclaimed.

"Ay, wala, stick na lang naiwan sa'yo." He mocked then slowly glanced at me. "Tara,
Architect, may pagkain sa may cabin ni Cap, kain tayo." He offered and I shook my
head.

"Hindi okay lang, kumain na ako." I smiled.

He nodded, glanced at G na nakasimangot at nakapamaywang na.

"Wala na, bulol. Ubos na." Biglang sabi nito.

"Hmp! No!" she exclaimed.

"May tatlo pa, eh. Ubusin ko na nga." Bigla siyang tumakbo palabas at napasipa si G,
akala ko'y aalis na pero bigla siyang lumingon at kumaway sa akin.

"Ay, later na lang muna, huh?" she smiled cutely and I nodded.

Tumalikod siya, humabol sa lalaki habang sumisigaw.

"Hoy, Baste! Tirhan mo me! I want fish bolbol!" she screamed her lungs out na miski
ang asawa niya ay napalabas sa kusina at napahabol sa kanila.

When they left, nagkatinginan kami ni Tintin. I glared at him and he laughed, mabagsak
na naupo sa tabi ko at sumiksik sa katawan ko.

I pouted, he buried his head on my shoulder, kissing it and hugging my waist.

"I love you, Ma'am..." he whispered in a small voice and I found myself smiling at that.

I relaxed on the sofa and rested my back on it. I let him cling on me as I brushed his hair
softly.

"I love you too," I whispered back, smiling.

I felt his smile on my skin, mas nagpabigat kaya natawa ako at humalik sa buhok niya.

"You're such a baby, Tintin." I muttered softly.

"Only to Sha-sha," he whispered back. "Super twins, right?"

"Kapangyarihan ng Araw!" I suddenly sang and he laughed, mas yumakap at sumabay

sa akin.

"Taglay ay liwanag, kambal na lakas! Tayo ang..." natawa ako bigla, inilahad ko ang
kamay ko at nag-apir kami at ipinagdikit ang daliri.
"Super twins!" We said together and we both laughed at that silliness.

When afternoon came, after cuddling for hours, Tintin asked me if I'd like to swim and of
course, I say yes. This is a vacation after all and I wanted to enjoy this as much as I
could.

"So, you two made up?" Zirena's smile widened while I was talking to her in video chat.

"Hmm," I hummed, biting my lip, pasimpleng sumulyap sa may bar counter sa gilid ng
pool at nakitang kausap ni Warren si Lucian at nagtatawanan habang umiinom.

"Paano? Care to tell me?" she raised her brow, napanguso naman ako at umiling.

"N-nag-usap lang..." I muttered but her smirk showed.

"Weh?" she exclaimed, muling akong umiling kaya mas ngumisi siya. "Weeeh?"

"Kunwari 'yan, nag-jugjugan 'yan kaya ayos na!" halos mahagis ko sa pool ang hawak
na phone nang lumitaw si Darshana sa camera.

"Hindi, ah!" I hissed and the two laughed, sumabog ang init sa mukha ko at mas
naghagikhikan ang dalawa.

"Kahit 'di naman tanungin, Daru, tignan mo nga ang pagpula ni Miss Perfect. Alam na,
nakapasok na sa lungga." Zire smirked.

"Zirena!" I hissed, embarrassed but the two laughed more. Suminghap ako at umiling.
"No, we just talked—"

"Kwento mo sa lelang mo," Daru grinned at me.

"Totoo nga!" I exclaimed, "aba, hindi ako kagaya niyong marupok—"

"Weh?" they said in unison and I found myself sighing, shaking my heat in defeat.

"Okay, fine. You're right." I said at halos lumabas na sa screen ang dalawa sa sobrang
tilian nila.

Gusto ko man makipag-usap ay nawala ang ngisi ko nang makita ang Jasmine at ang
kanyang nagliliwanag na blonde hair na naglalakad patungo sa boyfriend ko.

She's wearing her yellow two-piece swimsuit, nakalugay ang buhok at may hawak pang
orange juice.

My brows lifted, staring at her confidently walking towards my property.

Ang lakas naman talaga ng apog ni Ate girl, hindi basta-basta titigil, huh?

He's alone now near the small bar in the side, nakaupo sa sun lounger dahil umalis
saglit si Lucian para puntahan ang asawa sa pool.

"Hoy, Scira, nangyari sa'yo?" Daru asked and I glanced at them and shrugged.
"Later, girls. May susupalpalin lang ako." I said, stopped and waved a bit before I turned
off the camera.

The woman is busty, I admit. Umaalog ang dyoga niya habang naglalakad kaya
napapatingin sa kanya ang ibang lumalangoy at tambay sa lounger.

Napasulyap ako sa dibdib ko, I am not that ma-dyoga like her but it's fine! I mean...I
mean, I'm beautiful! Kahit hindi malaki ang dibdib ko.

I cupped both of my breast against my bikini to measure it, napasulyap kay Augustine
na nakatitig na pala sa akin. He's smirking, his black eyes enough to send me naughty
thoughts that I lowered my hand, shocked.

Tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya, mukhang natatawa pero pinipigilan kaya umirap ako. I
saw the woman walking a bit closer to him now, tumaas ang kilay ko, ayaw sanang
lumapit dahil sa pang-aasar ni Augustine but I am possessive, I don't want anyone
touching what's mine.

My property is mine and mine alone.

I stood from the side of the pool where am I sitting, I didn't attempt and try to swim
because I couldn't. Tagalakad lang ako sa gilid ng pool kaya wala akong future doon.

Confidently, I walked towards Augustine who relaxed on his seat when he saw me
approaching.

Palapit na rin iyong Jasmine kaya mas binilisan ko at wala ng pakialam. Ano naman
kung hindi kalakihan ang boobs ko? It's alright! At least, I am proud of my body kasi ako
ito.
Mas tumaas ang confidence ko nang nakita ko ang pagdilim ng mata ng boyfriend ko
habang papalapit ako, I saw him licked his lips. Wearing my black bikinis, I stride
towards him in large steps, hinahawi pa ang buhok na nililipad ng hangin.

Tumayo ako sa kanyang harapan at ngumiti siya.

"Ma'am," he called, smirking.

Walang pasabing naupo ako sa kandungan niya at nakita kong nagulat pa siya pero
biglang tumawa at inayos ako sa hita niya.

"Yes, baby?" he whispered, nakasandal ang baba sa balikat ko.

"Uh, excuse, Engineer?" we both stopped when the woman stood on our side.

Sumulyap kami roon at nakita ko pa ang kunot ng noo at iritadong tingin sa akin pero
nang sumulyap na ang boyfriend ko ay ngumiti at nagmukhang maamo.

"Yes?" Warren asked in a deep baritone.

Hindi ako umimik, sumandal ako sa may dibdib ni Warren at bumagsak ang kamay niya
sa baywang ko para alalayan ako sa kanyang hita. I took his glass of liquor, hinayaan
niya akong kunin ang baso niya kaya sumimsim ako roon at hinayaan siyang makipag-
usap.

"I just wanted to talk to you," she said confidently. "Privately."

Kumunot ang noo ko at natigil sa pagsimsim sa baso ni Warren. I wanted to react but
Warren's hand on my waist stopped me.

"About what?" he asked.

"Uh, just...just about the project, I am confused kasi." She said flirtatiously.

"Is it urgent?" he asked, umalis ng tingin sa babae at marahang hinawi ang buhok ko sa
balikat. I felt him put my hair in my other shoulder so he could kiss my other neck.

"Hindi naman, uhm..." she gulped.

"Then, maybe we can talk to it after the vacation?" he lifted his head and glanced at her.
"Sorry, Miss Sanchez, but I wish to have a vacation for now. I won't think of work for the
mean time. I hope you'd understand that."

Nakita ko ang pagkapahiya sa mukha ni Jasmine, namula siya at kinagat ang labi pero
ngumiti ang tumango.

"O-of course! Ano, sorry. Sige, I'll swim first." She said and Warren nodded, hindi na
siya inantay umalis at muling sumiksik sa leeg ko.

The woman remained staring at us, hinanap ko naman ang kanyang mata at pinakitaan
siya ng pinakamatamis kong ngiti.

She was stunned, umawang ang labi niya sa akin.

"Mine," I mouthed and she gasped, rolled her eyes and walked out angrily.
Noong umalis siya at natawa ako, natigil lang nang kumagat si Warren sa leeg ko kaya
hinampas ko siya.

"Tintin! Bampira ka ba?!" I hissed quietly and he laughed, pinisil niya ang baywang ko
kaya napatalon ako sa inirapan siya.

"You're such a naughty girl, huh?" he hummed, caught my chin and gave me a quick
kiss.

"Naughty? What did I do?" I asked innocently and he smirked at me.

"Mine, huh?" he hummed and I froze. Umirap ako sa hangin at humahalakhak siyang
yumakap sa baywang ko at ibinaon ang ulo sa leeg.

"Wala akong sinasabi, ah?" I denied.

"Hmm, oo na lang." He chuckled. "But don't worry, Ma'am. I am always yours. Ikaw, are
you mine?"

I relaxed, sumulyap ako sa dulong lounger at kita ang iritadong si Jasmine Sanchez at
ngumiti.

"Sa'yo lang," I answered. "Should I put a sign on my forehead with Tintin's property
written on it?"

He laughed, kissing my cheek.

"Then I should put a sign too, Sha-sha's property." He teased me back.

Ayaw ko man ay sobrang mapilit ni Augustine.

"I told you, I don't know how to swim!" I hissed quietly, nakahawak sa gilid ng pool at
halos maiyak na na hindi ko maabot ang semento.

"Come on, Ma'am. You can learn, turuan kita." He smiled at me, ang buhok ay basa. I
saw how droplets of water fell on his nose kaya inangat ko ang kamay at pinunasan
iyon.

"Mukha nga akong palaka lumangoy, Augustine." I whined. "I tried, with my cousins
pero hindi ko nga kaya."

"You just have to lift your body and manage your weight," he explained, "I will teach you
how, baby. Hindi kita hahayaang malunod."

"Nakakahiya, Tin. Display lang ako sa gilid ng pool kapag nag-s-swimming kami.
Purpose ko lang mag-picture ng naka-bikini." I said in a small voice.

He laughed, namula na siya sa kakatawa sa akin kaya umirap ako at pinalo ang braso
niya.

"Bully!" I whined.

"No!" he laughed and touched my face, "it's okay, baby. I can teach you how."

"Tinuruan na rin ako ni Kuya at Dad, still none." I pouted.

"But who knows? Baka kapag ako na nagturo kaya mo na?" he said, tila hinahalina ako
kaya suminghap ako at tumango na lang.

"Alright," I gave up.

She grinned, saglit akong hinalikan bago nagpaalam na may kukunin muna at umalis. I
saw how he swam towards the other end of the pool, I saw how his back stretched, his
muscles moving with his every stroke.

I licked my lip, pinagmamasdan siyang kunin ang salbabida roon sa may gilid ng pool. I
saw how the girls sitting on the side pushed each other softly, giggling.

Kumunot ang noo ko nang kalabitin pa ng isa si Warren kaya napatingin ito roon. He
shook his head and said something, humaba ang nguso ko nang naghagikhikan ang
mga Amerikana.

Binitawan ko ang gilid ng pool, pupunta sana sa pwesto nila pero bigla akong lumubog
kaya suminghap ako at yumakap sa gilid.

What the fuck! Matangkad naman ako! Bakit hindi ko abot ang lapag?!

I groaned, pinunasan ang basa sa mukha ng palad at iritadong sinuklay ang buhok.

"Ma'am—"

"Oh?!" I exclaimed and Warren stopped, kita ko ang pagkurap niya habang hawak ang
salbabida. I realized what I said kaya suminghap ako. "Sorry..."
"What happened?" he asked, mas lumapit hanggang sa magdikit na ang katawan
namin.

"I—almost got drowned," I said softly. "Lumubog 'yong mukha ko tapos hindi ko maabot
'yong floor."

His face soften, hinawakan niya ang baywang ko at humalik sa pisngi ko.

"Sorry, hindi kita naabutan." He sighed. "Are you fine? Pumasok ba sa ilong mo 'yong
tubig?" I slowly shook my head.

He heaved a relaxed sigh and kissed my head. "Alright, do you wanna learn how to
swim?"

Slowly, I nodded.

He offered me his hand, "come on, Ma'am. I promise to never let you go." He smiled
and I sighed and nodded, accepting his palm.

It was hard, we spent almost an hour just teasing me how to do floating, inalalayan niya
ang katawan ko para matuto ako mag-paddle at hindi man maayos noong at hindi pa rin
marunong lumangoy ay kalaunan natuto akong mag-floating.

"Yey!" I almost danced in happiness when I can do floating alone!

Muntik na akong lumubog kaya gulat akong napabalik ng hawak sa kanyang balikat at
nanlaki ang mata. He laughed, caught my waist and chuckled.
"You good?" he smiled.

"Yes, thank you!" pinatakan ko siya ng halik. "You're the best!"

"Ganyan talaga ang super twins, Ma'am. Tulungan." Mayabang siyang ngumusi.
"What's my reward, then?"

My lips protruded, smirking at him before whispering.

"Jugjug?" I whispered and he froze, nang makita kong nandidilim na ang mata ay
bumaba ang kamay ko. I cupped his bulge and his eyes widen.

"Scira Rosalie!" he warned at humagalpak ako ng tawa nang mamula siya.

It was hard hiding his hard on, he kept on glaring at me kaya natawa ako habang
hinihintay siyang humupa. Madilim nan ang umahon kami sa pool, tawang-tawa pa rin
ako sa kanya.

"Mars, matigas pa rin ba—"

"Shut up, woman!" supladong turan niya kaya tahimik akong tumawa at napailing.

"Patingin—"

"Eyes up!" halos lumabas na ang litid sa leeg niya kaya natawa ako at umiling.
"Sorry, sorry, hindi na..." I laughed, kumapit pa ako sa kanyang braso.

He put the towel on my shoulder after drying my hair, nang kontento na siya ay ngumiti
ako.

"'Di na kita aasarin, Tintin. Kiss na." I pouted my lips.

He remained glaring, ngumuso pa akong lalo. "Sige na, minsan lang 'to, kapag
sinumpong ako wala kang kiss."

I remained pouting for a few moments until he sighed and cupped my cheek, para
akong batang nabilhan ng candy nang humalik siya sa akin.

"Happy?" he said and I nodded, smiling.

"Super!" I exclaimed, his lips lifted, shaking his head before speaking.

"Kulit mo, buti na lang mahal kita," he whispered but I heard it kaya mas lumawak ang
ngiti ko.

We walked side by side to go back to our cabin when a group of girls tried walking
towards him. Filipinos, teens wearing their skimpy bikinis, tatlo sila at doon ko natantong
gusto nilang makausap si Warren na walang pakialam na inayos lang ang t'walya sa
balikat ko.

"Uh, excuse me!" a woman called using her high-pitched voice, nakita kong napabaling
doon si Warren at kumunot ang noo ko.
"Hi, uhm! Kuya, you're a Filipino, right?" the tallest of them all asked and I saw Warren
nodded.

"Yes, why?"

"Uhm..." she giggled. "rare lang makakita ng Filipino here sa cruise and pakapalan na
ng mukha but maybe we could hang out with you?"

I stopped, malakas akong tumikhim at napalingon sa akin ang mga babae at si Warren.

"Sorry but he's hanging out with me," I answered coldly.

"Share mo naman, Tita." The woman smiled and I froze.

What the hell...Tita?!

Nagkatinginan kami ni Augustine, I was fuming mad and annoyed, pinipilit na ng mga
bata si Warren pero nanatili lang siyang nakatingin sa akin.

He looks amused and whatever kaya binigyan ko siya ng pamatay na irap.

"Sama ka na lang din sa hang out if gusto mo pero mas okay sana kung si Kuya lang.
Tita ka na, eh. Baka 'di mo bet ang mga trip ng teens." The other one giggled. "Sige na,
Tita. Wala kaming kilalang Filipino rito!"

"First of all, I'm not a Tita—"

"Ay, mga sis, pasensya na, ah?" parang natulos ako nang biglang nagsalita si Warren,
malambot ang boses at malanding ngumiti.

I saw the teens mouth parted, miski ako ay umawang din ang labi.

"Sorry, kids, ah. Nag-ha-hunting kasi kami nitong kumare ko ng boylet." Hagikhik ni
Augustine. "Madaming matatandang yayamanin ditto sa ship! Ma-datung! Try niyo
maghanap para bongga!"

I blinked, pumilantik ang kamay ni Tintin at parang natulos ang mga bata, ang isa'y
muntik pang matumba pero naalalayan ng isa.

"K-kuya, you're—uh, gay?" nanginig ang boses nito.

"Ay, grabe ka, sis!" pabiro niyang hinampas ang kamay sa ere. "Hindi ako baklush, I am
a woman too! Girlalu, sa mayamang grandpa na madaling ma-deds lang kakalembang."

Parang hindi ko ata ma-take ang kalandian ni Augustine, tulala rin ako habang hindi
makapagsalita ang mga bata at ngumisi si Augustine at kumindat.

"Sige, bye na, girls! Bigyan ko kayo kapag nakadekwat kami ni sister." He giggled,
showed them a money sign and held my hand.

Gulat pa rin ako nang hinila niya ako palayo pero biglang natauhan at lumingon sa mga
bagets.

"Bye, kids! Kakalembang lang ang mga Tita!" I exclaimed, waving at the stunned girls.
Wala kaming imikang dalawa nang makalayo, kitang-kita ko ang pamumula ni
Augustine at natatawa na ako pero pinigilan ang sarili.

"Tin?" I called.

"W-what?" he stuttered, gulping hard.

"Hindi kaya natuluyan ka na, Mars?" I asked with a soft, mocking face.

He froze, umawang ang labi niya at umigting ang panga kaya ngumisi ako, unti-unting
hinila ang kamay ko sa hawak niya at biglang tumakbo palayo.

"Scira Rosalie!" he growled loudly and ran after me.

I'm such a bad girl and what does people do to girls like that? They got punished.

"F-fuck, faster, Augustine!" I exclaimed loudly while he's busy hammering me, rinig ko
ang langitngit ng kama sa bawat galaw niya.

"What now, huh? Ma'am? Sinong bakla?" he hissed lowly, gripping my waist while
pumping in and out of me.

"W-wala, joke lang!" I tried catching my breath. "B-bilisan mo, Tintin!"

"Gay, huh? Bubuntisin ka ng baklang 'to, Valderama." He muttered darkly and I moaned
when I felt him pulsating inside me, his seeds spurted inside me.
I rested on his arms after our session, he's still scoffing kaya natawa ako at humalik sa
kanya.

"Arte, Augustine." I mocked and he frowned at me.

"What else can I do, Scira? The girls are aggressive, s'yempre mas magandang
malaman nilang miyembro ako sa pederasyon." He said.

I burst out laughing, shaking my head. Pinalo ko siya at hinuli niya lang ang kamay ko at
dinala sa labi niya.

"Damn it, I'm embarrassed." He whispered and I smiled, sinilip ko ang mukha niya at
hinagkan.

"It's okay, love pa rin kita. Gay or not, ayos lang." I said.

He glared at me, "I'm not gay, Valderama." He scoffed and I nodded.

"Sabi ko nga," tawa ko at pinisil ang ilong niya.

We remained quiet for a while, I played on his silver dog tag and I felt his playing with
my hair, ramdam na ramdam ko ang init ng kanyang katawan kaya nagdesisyon na
akong magsalita.

"Tin?" I suddenly called.

"Hmm?"
"I just want to apologize," I said and he stopped, inangat ko ang tingin ko at tumitig sa
kanya, I saw his intense eyes staring at me kaya ngumiti ako.

"For?" he asked.

"For everything," I said softly. "for not hearing you out, for pushing you away. For telling
you you don't deserve me when the truth is, it is only you who deserve me."

I saw his eyes soften, he smiled at me, touching my cheek.

"I have a mistake too, Scira. I got fooled by my auntie and hurt you in the process, if
only I was observant, if only I didn't trust to much." He said and touched my cheek.
"Gusto kong magpakita sa'yo noon pero hiyang-hiya ako sa sarili ko at sa mga nagawa
ko."

"It wasn't your fault, Tintin. I understand you, sarado lang talaga ang utak ko na
pakinggan at paniwalaan ka, it's my trust that got scarred and it took me months to
slowly overcome it, unti-unti ay nabubuo ko nang muli ang tiwala ko sa'yo. It slowly sink
in to me, na hindi mo rin ginusto ang nangyari."

"I'm sorry," he said in a low voice. "I'm sorry that I lied to you in the past, for me, being a
gay when I never was. Gusto ko lang mapalapit sa'yo, you've seen me fooling around
with Warrion with that and you noticed me kaya...hindi na ako nakatanggi, pinanindigan
ko na lang." He said shyly.

I bit my lip, natatawang hinaplos ang buhok niya.

"Why did you lie about being gay, anyway, bakit hindi mo na lang kaagad sinabi? I
could've understand you." Namula siya bigla.
"W-we talked about this in the past, Ma'am." He said shyly and I laughed, pinching his
cheek.

"Gusto ko lang marinig ulit, masama ba?" I raised my brow.

"You just wanted to lift your pride, huh?" he smirked and I grinned back.

"Masama?" I said and he sighed in defeat.

"Because I like you, so much." He sighed again. "Gustong-gusto kita, crush na crush.
Masaya ka na?"

"Tsk! Ganda ko talaga," I said boastfully and laughed, nailing siya at pinugpog ako ng
halik ang mukha ko pagkatapos lakumusin ang pisngi ko.

"Basta Tintin," I said and stared at his eyes. "I apologize for being insensitive, I will work
on my attitude and try understanding the situation more."

He smiled, nodding.

"Let's compromise," he said. "before we conclude, before we do decisions and actions,

let's talk and hear each other first."

"Alright. Let's compromise." I smiled back.

He smiled proudly, touching my chin. "Let's seal this with a kiss."

And we did, just didn't expect it'll turn into another round of making love.

The vacation with Augustine is a blast and I loved every second of it, we made up for
the years we spent growing and fixing ourselves, yet still the years we spent away from
each other.

I am proud of learning to trust again, I am proud of myself for forgiving at ngayon,

kinakabahan pero nilakasan ko ang loob na magsabi sa parents ko na ipapakilala ko na
sa kanila ang boyfriend ko.

"D-do I look good?" I chuckled when I saw Warren's nervous face, ayos na ayos siya at
kalalabas lang sa kotse pero sinalubong na ako kaagad at nagtanong.

"S'yempre, ang gwapo-gwapo ng mahal ko." I smiled, fixing the sleeve of his navy-blue
dress shirt.

I saw his dark eyes staring at me, I noticed the amusement and adoration in his eyes
while looking at my outfit.

"You look beautiful too, Ma'am." He said and I smiled at him.

"Thank you, pinaghandaan ko 'to." I showed him my flowy blue dress matching with his
shirt.

He smiled boyishly, mukhang kinakabahan pa pero hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya at

ngumiti.
"Don't worry, Tintin. I'm just here, alam na rin naman nila Dad ang tungkol sa'yo, kaya
nga may dinner."

"Will it be alright? I mean..." he looked nervous again kaya ngumiti ako at umiling.

"It's alright, okay?" I smiled, taking his hand and kissed his knuckles.

"I love you," he smiled. "Thank you, Ma'am."

"I love you too, Sir." Lambing ko at pinagsaklop ang kamay namin.

I pulled him towards our home, hindi pa kami nakakalapit sa pintuan ay lumabas na ang
Kuya at ang Daddy. I puffed a breath, shook my head nang makita ang Daddy na
palaban na kaagad.

I saw Warren gulped harshly, malakas naman ang loob kong lumapit at ngumisi pa.

"Hi, Kuya! Dad! Boyfriend ko pala!" I said proudly.

Kuya Deion smirked, si Dad ay nakabusangot at sa bilis niya ay hindi ako nakagalaw
nang akmang susugod siya sa boyfriend ko.

He lifted his hand, was about to throw a punch when a voice stopped him.

"Isa, Thorn Arzeus! Sa labas ka matutulog!" naiwan sa ere ang kamay ni Dad at
natigilan.
I saw how pale Warren is, glancing at my father's fist near his stomach.

"Ibaba mo!" my Mom marched and Dad sighed.

"Queen! Isa lang!" he whined but my Mom rolled her eyes, shaking her head.

"No, ibaba mo." She commanded and Dad cursed under his breath, nagdadabog na
ibinaba ang kamay, itinago sa likod at tumalim ang tingin.

"Zid..." he said in a small voice. "Isa lang!"

"No!" maldita niyang sagot at nang bumaling sa amin ay tila anghel na ngumiti. "Oh,
come on, kids. Maraming handa, tara pasok!" she cheered.

"Good evening, Sir, Ma'am." I noticed Warren's nervous yet managed to stay
composed.

"Tita na lang, ano ka ba?" Mom chuckled, "tara, mga anak, pasok na at maghapunan."

She dragged us inside, napalingon pa ako kay Dad na nakabusangot sa likuran at si

Kuya Deion na humahagalpak ng tawa at ti-nap pa ang balikat niya.

"May isa na naman pong Tatay ang hindi napagbigyan sa kanyang pangarap," asar pa
ni Kuya kaya siya ang binatukan ng iritadong Thorn Valderama.

Kabanata 28
I can see Warren a bit nervous, pormal siyang naglalakad kasama ko patungo sa
dining, marahang humahawak sa baywang ko.

I saw him gulping when Mom talked to the house helps for the foods na wala pa sa
hapag.

"Hey," I called softly, taking his hand.

Napasulyap siya sa akin kaya kaagad akong ngumiti sa kanya at mas humawak pa sa
isang kamay niya.

"It's okay, don't be nervous. Mabait naman ang Mommy." Marahang sabi ko.

"I know, I just..." he puffed a breath. "Naninibago lang, this is my first time meeting a
girlfriend's parents and the last meeting I had with them was terrible, that's when I hurt
you."

I sighed and shook my head at him.

"It's okay, we made peace from that part, we all have to move on. It's okay, my parents
like you." Pampakalma ko sa kanya.

"Really?" he looks relaxed when I nodded.

"Yes—"
"Luh, wala akong sinasabi, ah?" we almost jumped when Dad spoke, paglingon ko ay
naroon na siya sa likod kasama si Kuya na tatawa-tawa.

"Dad! Nakakagulat ka!" I exclaimed.

Dad frowned, nabitawan ni Warren ang baywang ko para humarap sa kay Daddy.

"Good evening, Sir." Magalang na bati nito kay Dad bago lumingon kay Kuya. "Good
evening."

Kuya smirked and nodded, nang sumulyap ako kay Dad ay nakanguso siya at inayos
ang salamin.

"Dad?" I called.

"SML?" he suddenly said and I froze, Kuya Deion burst out laughing.

Umawang ang labi ko at napakurap-kurap si Warren. Dad rolled his eyes, masungit na
nagwalk-out papunta sa may dining at yumakap kay Mommy na nagulat sa kanya.

"SML?" my forehead creased and glanced at Kuya Deion.

"Share mo lang," halakhak niya, tinapik ang balikat ni Warren at ngumisi. "Goodluck,
pre."

Nagkatinginan kami ni Warren at nakita ko ang pag-ngisi niya roon.

"I'm sorry about my Dad," I cleared my throat, "he's being mean—"

"It's okay," natatawa niyang sabi kaya kumurap ako.

"Hindi ka na kinakabahan?" I asked and he nodded.

"Still a bit but yeah, it's okay. Natatawa ako, ang millennial pa rin ng Daddy mo." Biglang
sinabi niya at natawa na rin ako sa kanya.

"Nahawaan 'yan nila Tito, ayan, lutang na rin." Tawa ko roon. "Pero at least like ka na ni
Kuya."

"Good thing," he smiled kaya ngumuso ako.

"Naku, Tintin, baka mamaya ang end game mo si Kuya talaga?" I teased.

Napahagalpak na ako nang sumimangot siya. I bit my lip to stop my laugh when he
glared at me with his stone face.

"W-what the fuck..." he muttered. "come here—"

"Joke, love you!" tawa ko at hindi na siya nakainda nang hilahin ko siya patungo sa
dining table kung nasaan ang aking pamilya.

They were already seated in the dining table, nasa may kabisera ang Daddy at sa
kanan ang Mommy katabi ni Queen na nakangiting kumakain na ng salad.
"Ate!" She smiled widely when she saw me.

I gave her a flying kiss at humahagikhik niya iyong sinalo kaya natawa si Mommy at
napailing. Kuya Deion is seated on his left side kaya roon ako naupo at hinila si Warren
palapit.

"Good evening po," magalang na sambit ni Warren nang marating naming ang dining.
"Ma'am, Sirs, Miss..." I saw him smiled to Queen.

"Hi, Kuya! G'wapo ka!" she grinned.

"You're beautiful too, Miss." He smiled at her.

Natawa ako bigla at gano'n din ang Mommy. I saw Dad rolled his eyes and scoffed kaya
siniko siya nang natatawang si Mom.

"Thornie, behave!" she muttered.

I saw him pouting, nang sumulyap ako kay Warren ay namumutla na naman siya pero
mas composed kumpara kanina.

"Let's eat, everyone. Let's pray first." Ngiti ni Mommy at binulungan si Queen.

"Are you ready to pray, everyone?" Queen lead the prayer.

"Yes, we do." We all said and crossed our fingers and closed our eyes.
"Bless us, O Lord, and these, Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty.
Through Christ, our Lord. Amen." Queen Scira said softly and spoke again.

"Papa God, thank you po for the foods you gave us tonight, we hope po wherever Ate
Clyte is, sana po masarap din ang food niya. We are hoping she'll be back home soon,
please guide po our whole family and love ones, take us away from harm and embraced
our home and our hearts. I love you, Papa God. Amen."

"Amen," we said and I opened my eyes.

I saw Mom smiling, kissing her cheek, napasulyap ako sa tabi ni Queen kung nasaan
palagi nauupo ang Ate at nakita ang pinggan doon.

"Let's eat," my Mom said cheerfully and Dad stood to give her food.

Inabot ko ang serving spoon, was about to take some food when Augustine stopped my
hand.

"Let me," he said and smiled.

My heart thumped, nag-init ang pisngi ko at tumango sa kanya. He stood, he put meals
on my plate and I saw how my mother watched him carefully with a smile on her face.

Tahimik ang Kuya at Dad, I noticed them observing Warren who seems oblivious of
them, staring at him. Kinuha niya ang juice at nilagyan ang baso ko at nagkatinginan
kami ni Dad.

He frowned, ngumiti ako ng matamis sa kanya.

"Please?" I muttered and he sighed, nodding.

Dad relaxed a bit, Kuya's been observing my boyfriend kaya siniko ko siya.

"Kuya," I warned.

"What?" he asked innocently.

"Don't go psychiatrist on my boyfriend," I muttered and he sighed.

"Can't help it," ngiwi niya at ngumuso, kumuha na ng pagkain niya.

We started eating. Pormal na pormal si Tintin habang kumakain, panaka-nakang

susulyap sa akin para mahinang magtanong kung gusto ko pang kumain, he's refilling
my glass kapag nauubos na, palihim naman akong sumulyap sa aking pamilya na
mukhang kampante na sa kanya.

My Mom is observing but I noticed her sweet smiles. Si Dad naman ay walang reaksyon
masyado pero alam kong ayos na siya, nagda-drama lang marahil dahil hindi na naman
napagbigyan ang kanyang pangarap sa buhay.

I chuckled a bit, I remembered him saying na ipapakilala dapat namin ang mga
manliligaw sa kanya noon pero hindi naman nasunod, si Warren lang nakaharap niyang
pormal na boyfriend ko kaya iritado siyang hindi man lang nakasapak.

"What are laughing about, young lady?" my Dad asked kaya napaayos ako ng upo at
mabilis na ngumisi.
"Nothing," I said and gave him a sweet smile.

Sumulyap siya kay Warren, I saw Tintin turned pale again, inabot ang baso para
uminom ng tubig.

"Paano kayo nagkita muli nitong prinsesa ko?" my Dad asked at nabigla si Warren kaya
nabulunan.

I heard him coughed, naibaba ang baso at tinakpan ang bibig.

"Tin!" I exclaimed and touched his back.

"Buti nga," Dad laughed evilly kaya binatukan siya ni Mom.

"Inaano ka?" he whined.

"Bata ka ba?" my Mom spat kaya ngumuso si Dad at sumandal sa kanyang upuan.

"S-sorry po..." Warren said, gulping hard.

"Okay ka na?" I asked softly and he nodded at me.

"Y-yeah, thank you." He smiled.

"So?" my Dad asked and Warren cleared his throat again.

"We met again in a project po sa Lost island, I am friends, well, I'm a cousin of Zirena's
husband. Isa po ang firm namin sa nabigyan ng project and same as Scira's, your firm,
Sir." Paliwanag ni Warren.

"Hmm," Dad nodded. Kinuha niya ang tissue at ipinunas sa gilid ng kanyang labi.

"Lately po, we met again in a cruise ship tour and then, we made up. I-I asked your
daughter for a chance." He said and glanced at my family.

Napainom ako ng juice at sinubukang sumubo dahil kinakabahan din ako ngayon para
sa aming dalawa ni Warren.

"I'm in love with your daughter, Ma'am, Sir." He confessed to my parents at natigil ang
kamay ko sa paghiwa ng karne. "I liked her since the first time I met her, nahihiya lang
po ako mag-approach kasi she's you know, she's someone I couldn't reach and I'm
just...me."

"Tin..." I called, wiped the side of my mouth with tissue. "Don't say that, you're not just
you. you're Warren Augustine Miranda and I'm in love with you too."

"Oh my God!" I saw my Mom giggled, nang sumulyap ako sa kanya ay namumula na
siya, tinatakpan ang kanyang bibig. "Kinilig lang." Ngisi niya.

My lips protruded a bit, glancing at Warren who has this soft and sincere eyes while
staring at me. I can feel his genuine affection and my heart felt so warm.
"I wanted to apologize for everything I did, Scira, Ma'am, Sirs." He said and glanced at
my family.

I saw Dad and Kuya listening quietly, nakatingin kay Warren. Si Mommy ay gano'n din
at si Scira ay nakangiti habang nakatingin sa Kuya Warren niya.

"Makapal po siguro ang mukha ko na humarap pa rito sa inyo pagkatapos ng lahat but I
wanted to tell you I love your daughter so much, and I will do anything for her." He said.

"No one deserves my daughter, Mr. Miranda." My Dad said coldly and I saw Warren
nodded, nervous but courageous enough to face him.

"I know, Sir. She deserved better than me, she deserves anything in the world at hindi
po ako 'yon." He sighed.

"Tin..." I gasped and touched his arm. "That's not true."

"But..." he glanced at me. "But I am willing to be more just to deserve her. I'm in love
with her, so, so much that I'd never think I could love this hard again. Scira's my haven,
Sir, she's my home, without her I am lost."

Natahimik ang lahat, naiiyak ako sa saya na hindi ko maintindihan, my heart feels so full
and in comfort. Humigpit ang hawak ko sa baso ko at marahang uminom.

I saw my Mom and Dad exchanging glances, nangingiti si Mommy at kita ko ang
paglambot ng mata ni Dad.

"I know I did terrible things, if you'd let me, I would like to explain my side. Maiintindihan
ko po kung hindi niyo paniniwalaan—"
"We knew your side of the story, Warren." Mom answered kaya sumulyap kami sa
kanya. "We already know it, your aunt tricked you."

"I-I'm sorry, Ma'am." I saw Warren lowered his head. "I was fool, I thought of her as my
second mother at kailanman, hindi ko po naisip na magagawa niya. I have my mistake
too, if only I became vigilant, if only I'm careful, hindi po sana mangyayari. I wanted to
apologize for doing that, for giving your company and your family problems, for hurting
Scira. I am deeply sorry po. I am willing to take full responsibility—"

"Your responsibility now is to take care of my daughter," we both stopped when Dad
spoke, napasulyap kami sa kanya at nakitang seryoso siya habang inaayos ang
kanyang salamin.

"There's no use dwelling back to the past. What's done is done, yes, you did bad things
but I understand, we understand that. There's always a point in life where you make
mistakes because you trust too much. We all experienced that." He said seriously.

"I'm sorry, Sir." He said gently. "I'm really sorry."

Dad sighed and nodded.

"I understand, we all did mistakes and we can never take that back, the only thing we
can do for it is to make it a lesson instead. That's why sometimes, mistakes are done to
give us a lesson, to learn." He said. "We forgive you, I do."

"Stop blaming yourself, Warren." Mom smiled. "Hindi mo iyon ginusto, it wasn't your
fault. I wanted to apologize too for what I've said to you that night, I love my daughter so
much at nadala ako sa galit ko."
"You don't have to apologize, Ma'am. I understand, dapat lang po na nagalit kayo."

Mom smiled and nodded, "thank you, Warren."

"No, thank you po." He said humbly and glanced at her and Dad. "Thank you po for
saying it wasn't my fault, alam ko pong may kasalanan ako yet you..." my heart broke
when I saw Warren's eyes turned blood shot.

My mouth parted, hindi na alam ang gagawin nang makitang may tumulong luha sa
pisngi niya.

"T-thank you for forgiving me, t-thank you for talking to me. It means a lot to me. L-
lumuwang po ang pakiramdam ko." My heart swelled when he harshly dried his tears,
ayaw na maging mahina pero gano'n ang nangyayari.

"S-salamat po..." he said. "I-I'll do my best to be worthy of your forgiveness, I will do my

best not to hurt your daughter. I-I will do my best and be the best man who deserve
her."

"Tin," I said softly and touched his cheek. "you deserve me, okay?"

Hinawi ko ang kanyang luha at suminghap.

I realized how much I love Warren's different versions. I love his funny side, I love his
loving, naughty and gentleman side but I love this weaker side of him more. I love how
he melts for me, for his love for me.

"I love you, I'm sorry..." he said weakly and I nodded, nangingilid na ang luha.
"I-I love you too, I'm sorry." I said softly back.

"I remember myself to you," napasulyap kami Kay Dad at kita ko ang pagtaas ng sulok
ng labi niya.

Napangiti ako roon pati na rin ang Mom at Kuya.

"Po?" Warren asked and did his best to dry his tears, mabilis akong kumuha ng tissue
at inabot sa kanya na kaagad niyang kinuha.

"Nothing," he chuckled a bit. "I just remember my young self to you, I remembered how
much I begged just to take my wife back."

I saw Warren chuckled a bit, brushing his hair with his fingers.

"I'm sorry, I'm such a crybaby." He said softly kaya napatawa na rin ako at marahang
inabot ang kanyang kamay sa ilalim ng lamesa.

He glanced at me and I smiled, siya na ang nagsaklop ng kamay naming dalawa at

humigpit ang hawak sa akin.

"Tss, bawal iyakin. Lalaki tayo." Dad said and my Mom and I frowned.

"Nagsalita ang hindi iyakin," biglang tawa ni Mommy kaya sumimangot si Dad.

"Hindi, ah!"
"Weh?" Kuya Deion suddenly spoke kaya sumimangot si Dad at napahawak sa batok.

"Ano ba 'yan, napaka-KJ!" he hissed kaya natawa kami sa kanya.

"Wawa, Thornik!" Scira mocked and grinned evilly kaya umawang ang labi ni Dad.

"Pati ba naman ikaw, anak?" he exclaimed at mas tumawa lang si Queen doon.

"Sorry, Daddy." She chuckled and Mom smirked.

"Tama 'yan, apir tayo, anak!" Mom said at napailing ako nang mag-high five ang dalawa
roon hanggang sa nakabusangot na ang Daddy.

Sinerve na ang desserts at magaan ang loob ko habang kumakain, nagbibiruan na sila
at natutuwa akong isinasali nila si Warren na nahihiya pa 'nung una pero
nakipagsabayan na pagkaraan. He became comfortable with my family and I felt
nothing but genuine happiness for him.

"Yes, Sir. Ngayon, I'm working at my cousin's firm. Shareholder. Humiwalay na kasi siya
sa pamilya para magtayo ng firm."

"Hmm, where's your parents?" Mom asked and Warren shook his head, smiling a bit.

"They're gone,"

"O-oh..." she nodded. "I-I'm sorry, that was insensitive—"

"It's okay po, Ma'am. Matagal na iyon, I'm okay now." He smiled, reassuring her. "They
died in a car accident, noong nawala sila roon na ako nakikitira sa pinsan ko tapos
bumukod lang 'nung kaya na."

"That's good," Kuya Deion nodded at him.

"Thank you, Sir." He said formally, smiling.

"Just call me Deion," he said and I blinked, natuwa at sumulyap kay Kuya na seryoso
roon sa tabi ko bago kay Warren na namangha pa pero natuwa.

"Sure, Deion." He said.

"Yieee..." we all stopped when Dad spoke. "Warren, p'wede namang h'wag na ang
prinsesa ko, p'wede naman itong lalaki ko."

"Dad!" Kuya exclaimed. Humagalpak si Mommy at ngumuso ako at umirap kay Dad.

"Aarte, malay niyo ba kung natuluyan si Warren tapos ikaw na pala ang bet—"

"Thorn!" Mom exclaimed kahit na natatawa.

"Daddy nga!" sikmat ko at sumimangot. Pilit kong inabot ang paa niya sa ilalim at sinipa.

"What?!" manghang sabi niya, natatawa. "Wala akong tutol kung kayo—"
"Daddy!" I whined and he scoffed, binatukan siya ni Mommy at nakanguso ako pero
hinila ako ni Warren at natatawang yumakap.

"Kay Scira lang kakalembang, Sir." He said, laughing while cuddling me at ngumuso si
Dad.

"Huh! Dinig mo 'yon?" yabang ko pa kay Dad. "Sa'kin lang kakalembang."

Tawang-tawa sila roon at si Dad ay sisimangot pero natatawa na rin.

"Weh? May spark kayo ni Deion—"

"You're my father, Dad pero ako na mismo magpapayakap sa'yo sa Meralco para
totoong spark." Reklamo ni Kuya.

"Ang sama niyo sa akin! Tatay niyo ako!" depensa pa niya.

"Feeling bata ka kamo, Valderama." Mom laughed. "Isip-bata lang pero lolo na. Medyo
amazed pa nga ako na wala ka pang tungkod."

"Reyna!" Dad exclaimed, parang siya pa ang dehado. "Ano, Warren, sino ba talagang
bet mo?"

Mas humigpit ang hawak sa akin ni Warren, natatawa pa roon.

"Scira kalambangerist lang po, Sir." he said. "Walang titibag."

"Luh," Dad frowned. "Akala mo talaga..."

"Yes, Sir—"

"Tito na lang," umayos ng upo si Dad. "Naaasiwa na ako sa Sir, call me Tito instead."

My heart swelled, seryoso ang Daddy at mukhang walang pakialam pero halata naman
sa matang gusto rin si Warren.

"Alright," he breathe happily beside me. "Tito."

"Yieee..." it was Kuya Deion's time to tease and Dad froze.

"Oh my God!" Mom burst out laughing at hindi ko alam kung bakit napahagalpak din
ako.

Dad froze, hindi nakuha ang una pero nang matanto ay umawang ang labi.

"Putang ina—" he cursed.

"Shh! Si Queen!" Tinampal ni Mom ang bibig ng huli at mabilis na tinakpan ang tainga ni
Queen na kumukurap lang habang kumakain ng dessert niya.
Time flies so fast when you're happy, walang rewind kaya dapat sulitin mo ang bawat
oras para walang nasasayang na panahon. When you're with the person who makes
you happy, mabilis ang oras na sometimes hihiling ka na lang ng extra.

In a relationship, you both have to compromise. Communication is the key, hindi naman
talaga maiiwasan ang misunderstanding kaya ang pinakamagandang gawin ay maayos
na pag-uusap para magkaintindihan.

"Ma'am, nandito na po si Sir Warren." Silip ng sekretarya ko kaya umayos ako ng upo at
tumango.

"Alright, papasukin mo." Ngiti ko.

Umalis siya, habang wala pa ang boyfriend ko ay inayos ko ang lamesa ko na puno na
ng nagkalat na papel. Magulo na ang buhok ko at nawala na ang lipstick sa labi kaya
mukha akong bangag.

Gusto ko sanang mag-ayos pero para saan pa? Augustine saw my every face, the one
with make up and the one without anything.

Kumuha na lang ako ng suklay at nang patapos na ako ay 'tsaka nagbukas ang pinto.

"Hi, Ma'am." He smiled when he saw me, may dala pang paper bag ng pagkain.

"Tintin..." I murmured, binaba ang suklay at mabilis na yumakap sa kanya. I cling on him
like a baby, natawa siya kaagad nang halos magpakarga na ako, Mabuti na rin at
nakapants kaya naikot ko ang hita sa baywang niya.
"Yes, my baby?" he hummed huskily, laughing, marahan ang lakad niya habang
nakaalalay ang isang braso sa likod ko para hindi ako mahulog. He put the paper bag
on my table and carried me.

"I'm tired..." I whispered softly and buried my face on his neck.

"Maraming pipirmahan?" marahang bulong niya sa akin kaya tumango ako, pumikit at
inamoy ang leeg niya.

He sighed and kissed my hair, "you should rest first, mahal ko. I cooked you for lunch,
h'wag ka na masyado sa take outs, masama 'yon."

"Okay," I answered softly and kissed his neck. "Ang bango-bango mo, Tintin."

He chuckled, nang marahan akong bumaba sa kanya ay inalalayan niya ako.

"I used the perfume you gave me, okay ba?" nangingiti niyang sabi.

"Hmm, you smelled so good." Ngiti ko sa kanya.

Naupo siya sa swivel ko, nang ilahad niya ang kamay ay natutuwang umupo ako sa
kanyang hita at muling yumakap.

"Wala ka ng work?" I asked softly. "Akala ko mamayang hapon ka pa free."

"No, I wanna spend this day with you." He said, marahang inilapit ang swivel sa lamesa
ko at inabot ang dala niyang paper bag.
"Magkikita naman tayo mamaya, baka may work ka? Ayokong makaistorbo." I
whispered, mas yumakap at pinasok pa ang kamay sa shirt niyang suot.

I caressed his abdomen, I felt his breathing labored.

"Baby, stop it..." lambing niya.

"Why?" nangisi ako at mas hinaplos ang kanyang dibdib sa ilalim ng shirt.

"I'm turned on," he said hardly. "we should just eat now."

"Hmm," I licked his neck and kissed him. Napamura siya at marahang tinanggal ang
kamay ko.

"Come on, Ma'am. Let's make out later, okay? Kakain muna tayo." He said, controlling
myself.

I can feel his boner on my butt, ngumuso ako.

"But you're hard...sayang naman." I said. "I can do something—"

"Scira," he warned.

Humagikhik ako, "pero kasi—"

"Of course, I want to make love to you,"

"Oh? Eh, bakit..."

"You're hungry, that's more important." He said at hindi ko na napigilan ang pag-ngiti.

Lumayo ako sa kanya para sapuin ang kanyang pisngi. I met his soft black eyes and I
smiled and gave him a peck.

"I love you."

"I love you too," he chuckled and kissed me too. "We should fill your stomach with food
first before I fill you with babies."

I froze. Ngumisi siya at nang mamula na ako sa pilyo niyang tingin ay tumili ako at
pinalo siya.

"Wala ka bang naalala ngayon?" he asked while he's driving towards the cemetery. We
will visit his parents.

"Hmm? Anong mayroon?" I asked.

He pouted a bit, kita ko ang pagkunot ng noo niya at nilingon ako.

"Wala kang naaalala?" he asked again and I shook my head.

"Mayroon ba dapat?" I asked and licked my lower lip. "Ang alam ko, we will meet and
visit your parents tapos kakain tayo sa labas?"

"'Yon lang?" he asked and I nodded.

I saw him sighed.

"Sorry, uhm..." I bit my lip. "Mayroon ba dapat?"

He froze, looked at me and smiled. "Wala naman, akala ko mayroon pang gagawin."

"Ah..." I nodded, touching the flowers on my lap.

Tahimik siyang nag-drive kaya ngumuso ako at medyo nangingiti kaya nag-iwas na lang
ng tingin para hindi niya makita.

We reached the cemetery in no time, kaagad na humawak sa akin si Augustine para

alalayan ako habang hawak ko ang bulaklak na regalo namin sa parents niya.

"Let me," he said, looking at the flowers pero umiling lang ako at ngumiti.

"No, ayos lang." I said softly. "Kaya ko."

Nakaalalay siya sa akin patungo sa Mausoleum ng kanyang mga magulang. I don't

know why but I am suddenly nervous.
Today is their death anniversary, may dala kaming mga bulaklak at kandila ni Warren
para sa kanila.

I know they're gone but I am nervous now that I will meet his parents.

Will they like me for their son?

Nang nasa tapat na kami ay halos magwala ang puso ko, natigilan ako at naramdaman
ang marahang haplos ni August sa braso ko.

"Come on, baby. It's alright." He smiled at me softly.

"I-I'm nervous," I confessed.

"They will love you." I stopped upon hearing that, our eyes met and he touched my
cheeks while smiling. "They will love whatever I love and you're one of them. They will
love you because I love you so much."

Nag-init ang pisngi ko, ang kaba ay napalitan pa ng kilig. I smacked his chest and
pouted.

"Bolero," I said.

He chuckled, kissed my forehead and placed his arms around my shoulder. "Come on,
Ma'am. They're waiting for us."
Pagkalagay pa lang namin ng bulaklak ay nagsindi na kami ng kandila para sa mga
magulang niyo. We stayed silent for a few moments and uttered a prayer before sitting
in front of them.

"Hello, Mom, Dad." I saw how Warren smiled upon staring at the tomb.

"Hello po, Tito and Tita, magandang hapon po." Magalang kong sabi at sumulyap doon.
I slowly touched the tomb and smiled.

"It's been a while since I last visited you two here," he muttered. "Ilang buwan na rin ang
nakalipas, sorry po. I got busy with work pero I will do my best to visit you more often, I
will bring my girlfriend with me."

I smiled, nagkatinginan kami ni Augustine at marahang hinila niya ako palapit sa kanya
hanggang sa mapasandal na ako sa kanyang balikat.

"Mom, Dad, this is my girlfriend, Scira Valderama." He said and my cheeks flushed,
umayos ako ng upo at tumikhim.

"Hello po, Tito at Tita, pasensya na ang ngayon lang ako nakabisita." I smiled softly. "I
am Tintin's girlfriend, p'wede niyo rin ako tawaging Sha-sha."

Augustine chuckled, mabilis na yumakap sa baywang ko, natawa na rin ako roon.

"Grabe po itong anak niyo, kumare lang kami dati, eh. Super twins po kaso hinarot ako
at jinowa na." I said.

"This is my long time crush, Mom, Dad. 'Yong kine-kwento ko palagi sa inyo." He said.
"Kine-kwento mo ako?" my eyes widen, sinilip ko siya at ngumisi siya bago ako hagkan
sa pisngi.

"Hmm, they know how much I like and love you." He said and glanced at the tombs.
"Finally, nakuha ko na 'yong crush ko. I'm such a good boy, right?"

I chuckled, nahihiya man ay kinikilig din. Niyakap ko pabalik si Tintin at marahang

hinaplos ang buhok niya.

"You see, Tito and Tita, super bait po nitong anak niyo. Good boy nga. I'm so proud of
him." I said. "He's really ideal, he's caring and loving, he understands and loves all my
flaws and I'm in love with him so much."

Napansin ko ang paglalim ng hinga ni Warren kaya ngumiti ako. Mas sumubsob siya sa
balikat ko at hinaplos ko ang kanyang buhok.

"I know I'm not perfect like everyone is claiming I am but your son accepted me
wholeheartedly. He loved me dearly and deeply and I am proud of having him. He's
such a tough boy, he...lived alone yet he's so strong, he overcome his challenges and
like me, he isn't perfect. He has flaws too but I love this boy so much. I love your son so
much, Tito and Tita." I said gently.

Mas humigpit ang yakap niya sa akin, suminghap siya, nangilid din ang luha ko pero
pinigilan ko.

"I hope you'll accept me in your son's life. Mahal na mahal ko po si Warren. I don't know
if I'll be able to love again, I fell hard for your son. I don't think I'll love again if it isn't
him."
I heard his sobs, doon na tumulo ang luha ko.

"I-I love you," he whispered softly, shaking.

I caressed his hair more and smiled.

"I love you too, so much. Mahal na mahal kita." I whispered.

I stared at the tombs and my heart felt lighter when the cold air entered the mausoleum
where we are sitting and hugging. Ramdam ko ang dampi ng lamig sa braso ko kaya
mas napanatag ako.

He moved away, I saw how tears fell on his cheek but his eyes scream nothing but
genuine happiness and my heart's already full.

"I love you," he said, kissing my lips briefly. I felt his tears on his cheeks as he kissed
me and I kissed him back, letting him feel the love I wanted to give him.

"Saan ba tayo pupunta?" he asked while I was driving.

"Basta," I smiled. "Ako ang taya sa date natin so I'll decide where we'll eat."

"Alright," he chuckled. "Wala bang clue?"

"Nah," I grinned.
"Ang daya..." he pouted and crossed his arms kaya natawa na lang ako at hinayaan
siyang nakanguso roon.

"How about we stay in your condo? Or mine?" he asked. "Then, we can make love—"

"Ang harot mo kamo, Tintin." Tawa ko. "Kanina 'nung niyaya kita aayaw ka, arte. Bahala
ka r'yan."

"Sayang," bulong-bulong pa niyang nag-iinarte kaya ngumisi na lang ako at dumiretso

sa kung saan kami kakaing dalawa.

"Pero wala kang naalala ngayon?" he asked after a while kaya saglit akong sumulyap at
nagkibit balikat.

"Mayroon ba?" I asked and he pouted, shaking his head and rested again on his seat
and stared at the road.

Nagta-tantrums na ang sister ko, lihim akong ngumisi at mas na-excite na malapit na
kami sa destinasyon. We reached the port and I saw how his forehead creased when
he realized it.

"Ma'am?" he asked.

"Shh," I smiled at him, offered my hand and he took it. Hinigit ko siya papunta sa
destinasyon at nakita ko ang pagtataka niya.

We reached the boardwalk at mas nabakas ko ang pagtataka sa kanya.

May lumapit sa aking empleyado at inilahad ang isang blind fold kaya nagpasalamat
ako roon at ngumisi kay Warren na nanlaki pa ang mata sa akin.

"Close your eyes," I said.

"Huh?" he asked then slowly nodded and grinned. "Is that your fetish, Ma'am, huh?
Wanna fuck me with blind folds on?"

"Hoy!" ako naman ang suminghap at pinalo siya. "Bastos!"

"Hmm, then why—" I glared at him.

"Pipikit ka o ano?" I muttered.

Natahimik siya, napalunok pa unti-unting pumikit. "Sabi ko nga," aniya at bahagyang

ibinaba ang sarili para mas maayos ang blind fold.

"Good boy." I smiled, fixing the blind fold before giving him a smack.

"Isa pa," hirit pa niya kaya ngumisi ako at pinitik ang kanyang labi.

"Mamaya na, sobra na 'yan." Tawa ko at mas humaba ang nguso niya kaya inabot ko
na ang kanyang kamay at hinila. "Come on."

Tanong siya ng tanong habang naglalakad kami sa board walk patungo sa isang yate
na kinuha namin para ngayong gabi. Nasa malayo pa lang ay nakita ko na sila.
Vioxx smirked when he saw me, I saw Wave pointed at the sky at kaagad kong itinaas
ang kamay ko.

"Wait," I mouthed and he nodded.

"Careful, Sir." I said, marahang inaalalayan si Warren paakyat.

"Where are we, Ma'am?" he asked curiously. "Mas amoy dagat na rito."

"Basta," I said softly. "Tara."

We reached the yacht, I saw his cousin and friends with the girls standing in front.
Nakahanda na ang camera ni Zire na ngumingisi pa.

"Lower your head a bit, baby." Bulong ko at ginawa nga niya iyon. I slowly removed his
blind fold and nodded at Wave who showed his thumbs up somewhere.

"H'wag kang mumulat kaagad," I whispered.

"Alright, Ma'am," tawa pa niya.

"I'll count one to three, hmm? One, two, three." He opened his eyes at narinig ko ang
malakas na putok at ang pagkalat ng kulay sa langit dahil sa fireworks.

"Happy birthday, Mars!" we all screamed, mabilis na pinaputok ang party poppers
kasabay ng fireworks sa langit.
I saw how stunned Warren is, umawang ang labi niya. I saw how his eyes twinkled with
unshed tears, mabilis siyang lumingon sa akin kaya matamis akong ngumiti sa kanya.

"Happy birthday, my love." I said happily and I saw how tears pooled on his eyes before
hugging me tightly.

Kabanata 29

It's fulfilling seeing your love ones having fun. I've seen Augustine happy but he's extra
happy today.

Nagbabatukan sila roon habang nag-iinuman pero nakita ko ang masayang ngisi niya. I
glanced at the table where the gifts are, he was so happy, he cried while hugging me,
whispering his thank you.

I felt bad for ruining his last birthday so I am doing my best to make up for it, so far,
seeing his this happy is enough to make me happy too.

"Successful ang surprise party, ah?" Zirena grinned beside me, offering me her drink.

"Naman, thanks to all of you." I chuckled. "Without you all, hindi naman mangyayari 'to."

Tinanggap ko ang alak na ibinibigay niya pero nang maamoy ay kaagad akong naasiwa
kaya ibinalik ko sa kanya.

"Juice na lang ako, Zire. Ayoko malasing baka malasing si Tintin, walang mag-
aasikaso." I said.
Humalakhak siya, kinuha ang alak bago nagtawag ng waiter para sa juice ko. I smiled
when the lemonade juice reached me, may payong pa iyon kaya sumimsim ako.

"Saan kayo galing kanina?" she asked.

"Cemetery, I met his parents. Galing kasi akong opisina, nagtatanong pa nga noong
una kung wala ba raw akong naalala tapos s'yempre sabi ko wala." I chuckled.

I saw the girls on the side, drinking. Si G ay may dalang isang pack ng mikmik at
natawa ako nang ipamigay niya iyon sa amin.

"Here, nakadekwat ako from Luci's bag! Share-share!" she giggled at natatawang
kinuha ko iyon at binuksan.

Nagtatawanan ang mga lalaki roon, nakakapit sa braso ko si Winter habang

tumatawang nakikipag-usap kina Engr. Flores.

"WarWar pa rin!" hagalpak ni Caspian doon, tinutulak si Warrion kay Warren.

I chuckled, shaking my head. I suddenly remembered how Tintin fooled around like a
gay with Warrion, akala ko talaga kumara material itong si Augustine, scammer of all
time lang pala.

"Tang ina mo, gago!" Warrion exclaimed, sinipa ni Tintin si Lucian na humahagalpak
doon at pinipilit siya.
"Sus, bago mo pa nakita si Architect kay Warrion ka muna kumalembang!" hagalpak pa
nila roon.

"Gago!" Tintin hissed then smirked. "Ano, tara, darling?"

"Fuck you!" Warrion's jaw dropped, napatawa na rin ako nang humagalpak si Warren sa
pang-aasar.

Winter chuckled beside me, sumulyap ako sa kanya at nakitang nangingisi rin.

"I really like it when they're being crazy like that. Parang mga batang hamog." She
chukled.

Mukhang narinig din ng iba kaya natawa rin sila.

"Ngayon lang 'yan sila masaya, mayamaya magtatago na kasi maniningil na si Lucian."
Tawa ni Polaris kaya natawa na rin ako.

"Oh, I saw Luci took his magic notebook! Nasa pocket lang ng jeans." Sumbong ni G na
muling namigay ng mikmik flavored powder na kinuha niya sa asawa.

Habang masaya akong nakikipagkwentuhan ay hindi ko naiwasang bumaling sa pwesto

ng mga lalaki at natigilan nang magsalubong ang mata namin ni Warren.

His eyes are intense while glancing at me, I smiled and winked a bit and his lips lifted.
Mas dumilim ang mata niya habang sumisimsim sa alak sa baso.

I suddenly can't wait for us to be alone.

Tinawag ni Zire ang atensyon ko kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya at inabutan niya ako ng
pagkain.

"Body shot! Body shot!" our gaze shifted on the side and saw the boys cheering. Kita ko
ang pagsalo ni Wave sa dice at nagtawanan sila at sinapak ang braso ni Warren.

"Naglalaro na naman ang mga shunga," tawa ni Zire kaya sumulyap ako roon muli.

May ibinigay silang lime kay Warren. He suddenly looks so shy, namumula rin. He looks
kinda drunk as the boys pushed him towards me.

"Go, birthday boy!" Vioxx laughed while he's making his way towards us.

My forehead creased, natatawang lumayo sa akin ang girls at nagulat ako nang tumabi
sa akin si Augustine. The mixture of liquor and his perfume reached my nose.

"Hi, Ma'am," his deep voice called me kaya kumurap ako at sumulyap sa kanya.

"Hmm?"

"Body shot?" he showed me his lime.

Bigla akong natawa, mas lumakas ang tugtog at nakita kong nag-uumpisa ng
kumendeng si Caspian doon sa gitna.
"Ano bang...hoy, Alcantara!" napahawak si Polaris sa sentido at tumayo palapit sa
asawa.

"Ma'am?" namumungay ang matang sabi niya kaya ngumisi ako at tumango.

"Alright, show me what you got." Hamon ko at mas nagdilim ang mukha niya.

He put the lime in between my lips, placing an ample amount of salt in my collar bone.

"Woah! Way to go, Mars!" hagalpak ni Lucian na isinayaw na ang asawa na tumatawa
roon.

"Fuck you," Warren laughed groggily, his sleepy eyes stared at me before giving me a
peck on my lips. "Love you, Ma'am."

He lifted his shot glass, his eyes never leaving mine as he took a sip on his tequila. My
mouth parted a bit, medyo bumilis na ang paghinga nang basain niya ang labi at
tumungo sa may leeg ko.

I felt his tongue sensually licking the salt on my collar bone, mabuti na lang at malakas
ang tugtog at nasa gitna kami ng dagat kaya hindi narinig ang pagsinghap ko nang
bahagya niyang sinipsip ang balat ko.

I felt the fuel running through my system, igniting the fire inside me. He moved away,
moved his face and suck the lime in between my lips with his lips.

Nagkatinginan kami at mas bumilis ang paghinga ko nang marahang humaplos ang
kamay niya sa baywang ko.
"Mamaya na landian, sayawan na!" Zire exclaimed kaya napatalon ako.

Wave and Warrion pulled Tintin away from me. I saw him frowned and cursed.

"Gago!" he exclaimed. "Let me go!"

"Bitin!" hagalpak ni Wave at halos sapakin siya ni Tintin.

"Let's dance!" Winter helped me up at natatawang sumama ako sa gitna para

makipagsaya.

I danced and had fun with the girls, natatawang nag-video ako nang pagtripan nila ang
boyfriend ko at inangat sa ere, nilolokong ihuhulog sa dagat.

"Gago!" Tintin exclaimed and I laughed nang mamutla siya at halos masuka habang
sinasabunutan ang mga lalaki sa panloloko.

"Picture!" Zire exclaimed and I chuckled, humarap kami sa camera at nag-pose habang
tuwang-tuwa siyang kumukuha ng litrato.

An old disco song played in the stereo and I my stomach almost hurt laughing when the
drunk guys danced like old Titos in a disco.

"Shit, naalala ko sila Dad kapag sumasayaw." Hagalpak ni Zire nang mga lutang na ang
sumasayaw sa gitna, Caspian is making his hula hoop moves at pinipilit si Wave at
Warrion na parang zombie at hindi gumagalaw.
"Wavey, show them the moves!" malakas na hiyaw ng tumatawang pinsan ko.

"Way to go, Daddy! Macho dancer 'yan! Woah!" Sera exclaimed when her husband
danced.

Ayaw pa ni Tintin sumayaw noong una pero nang ngumisi ako at tinaasan siya ng kilay
ay nawala ang hiya.

"Papatalo ka ba?!" I exclaimed and his eyes widen.

"Of course not!" competitive niyang sagot at nakipagtagisan kay Caspian doon sa gitna.

I am laughing hard while watching them, naaalala ko sa sayaw nila sina Daddy kapag
nagsasayawan. They looked like old Titos dancing!

Nang lumalim na ang gabi at magmadaling-araw na ay 'tsaka lang kami nagdesisyong

magpahinga. The boys are drunk, kausap ko ang staff para sa pag-ayos ng kalat pero
hindi na ako nakatulong dahil panay ang yakap ni Tintin sa likod ko.

"Tin, una ka na." I said softly. "Tulong lang ako saglit—"

"Ayaw..." he muttered.

"Tintin," I warned when he began kissing my nape. Nakikiliti na ako at natatawa pero
ayaw tumigil, mas yumapos siya sa baywang ko at hinawi pa ang buhok ko.
"Naku, Ma'am. Ayos lang, kami na ang bahala." The staff chuckled when she saw us.

I pouted a bit, pinakausapan pa si Tintin dahil nahihiya ako na hindi makatulong pero
ayaw paawat.

"Ayaw, Tintin gusto Sha-sha..." he whispered huskily.

"Ate, pasensya na po, ah?" marahang sabi ko sa staff na kaagad na ngumiti at

tumango.

"Ayos lang, Ma'am. Pahinga na po kayo at baka gusto na matulog ni Sir." Aniya at
ngumisi ako ng kaunti, marahang hinawakan ang kamay ni Warren sa baywang ko at
hinila.

"Come on, Sir. Tulog ka na." Marahang sabi ko habang kumakalas siya sa akin.

Nagpaalam na paalis ang staff. Naiwan kaming dalawa at nakita ko kaagad ang
mapungay niyang matang nakamasid sa akin.

I brushed his hair a bit and I felt him putting his hand on my waist. Bumaba ang hawak
ko sa kanyang pisngi at ngumiti.

"Hindi ka ba nilalamig?" he suddenly asked, umakyat ang isang kamay sa braso ko.

"Medyo, I'm fine." I answered, smiling.

Kumunot ang kanyang noo at unti-unting umakbay sa akin, "you shouldn't have
changed your clothes. Nag-dress ka, malamig na tuloy."
Nangingiting inilagay ko ang braso sa kanyang baywang at sabay kaming naglakad
papunta sa aming kwarto.

"I'm okay, hindi naman masyadong malamig." I smiled while feeling his warmth.

We reached the room inside the yacht at doon na ako humiwalay kay Warren, I took my
purse and check the key card and I felt him settling behind me to hug my waist.

"You're so clingy, Sir." Natatawang sabi ko habang kinukuha ang card.

"Only to Sha-sha," he said huskily and moved my hair away, I felt him kissing my nape
and I gasped.

I tried staying compose yet his kisses are too soft and gentle I couldn't even think
straight, his hand from my waist went up and I gasped when I felt him squeezing my
breast.

"A-Augustine," I hissed when my hand started shaking. "W-wala pa tayo sa kwarto!"

"Hahawak lang, eh." He muttered. "Damot."

"Mamaya na sa kwarto, hmm?" I hummed pero sobrang kulit, umawang ang labi ko
nang akmang i-aangat niya ang hem ng dress kong suot.

"Augustine!" I hissed.
"Alright," he chuckled and kissed my neck. "Open the damn door na so we could make
love."

Mag-iinarte pa sana ako pero gusto ko rin kaya hindi na umangal, I cleared my throat,
stayed composed and when I opened the room, kaagad na nagtagpo ang labi namin.

It was like we memorized each other's moves, mabilis na nakalas ko sa kanya ang
butones ng kanyang dress shirt at basta ko na lang itinapon kung saan.

"Baby," he called when I became a little aggressive, humalik ako sa kanyang leeg at
bumaba ang kamay sa kanyang pants para hilahin ang belt paalis.

"F-fuck, Ma'am." He said hoarsely when I pushed him on the bed.

Nakabagsak pa ang kanyang dalawang paa sa ibaba habang nakahiga ang katawan sa
kama, I saw how his muscle flexed when he put his arms at the back of his head as he
watched me kneel in between his legs.

He whistled a bit, bumagsak ang buhok sa noo kaya tumaas ang sulok ng labi ko.

"H'wag mo namang ipahalatang masyado kang patay na patay, Tintin." I muttered

sensually.

He chuckled, watching me teasing his hard on as I moved my waist in the material of his
rough pants.

"Can't help it, Ma'am." He licked his lower lip. "I can't wait to fuck you hard, kanina pa
ako nagpipigil."
Natawa na ako, I lifted my body a bit to remove my dress, itinapon ko iyon kung saan at
naiwan na lang sa underwear. His eyes darkened more, I saw how he gulped harder at
that.

Tinanggal niya ang kamay sa likod ng ulo, he was about to touch me pero tinampal ko
ang kanyang kamay.

"No," I hissed.

"W-what?" napakurap siya at ngumisi lang ako.

"Let me do the moves now, Sir." I said teasingly and reached for the hook of my
brassiere.

"Ma'am," he gasped and bit his lower lip.

"Happy birthday, August." I said sensually, removing my brassiere and threw it near his
head.

"Scira," he warned when I laughed at him, he's tempted to touch me again but I shook
my head kaya suminghap siya at nagpigil.

I saw how his breathing labored when I moved a bit lower to unbutton his pants, his
eyes dilated and his face reddened. Umigting ang panga niya nang mabuksan ko ang
kanyang pantalon at marahang hinaplos siya.
I moved my hand in his boxers, teasing him. Halos marinig ko na ang malalalim niyang
paghinga sa ginagawa ko. I can feel him getting harder and harder with my touch.

"Scira! Just please..." he cursed under his breath.

"Oh?" I grinned, mas hinila ang pants niya paalis at nang maiwan na lang ang boxers
niya ay mas ngumisi.

"B-baby, just..." he sighed. "Touch me."

"Uh-hmm," I licked my lip and moved my hands on the garter of his boxers. "Please
what?"

His eyes darkened more, tumalim ang tingin niya at mas nahirapan na.

"Baby, please..." he heaved a heavy sigh.

"Please, what?" I smirked and lowered his remaining clothes.

My throat dried up when I saw his part standing proud, nakita kong nakakuyom ang
kanyang kamay at gusto na akong abutin pero hindi magawa.

"Please fuck me," he hissed. "Ma'am..."

"Alright, birthday sex it is." I smiled sensually before touching him.

Bumaba ako sa kama, I knelt in between his legs and enclosed his manhood with my
warm palm. Lumalim ang paghinga niya, napaupo siya at kumindat lang ako at iginalaw
ang kamay.

"You're hard, huh?"

"Stop teasing me, woman!" his impatient voice roared at natawa ako, nang mag-angat
ako ng tingin ay sobrang dilim na ng kanyang mata habang nakatingin sa akin.

"What?" I teased while stroking him slowly.

"Damn it, you're good at seducing, huh?" malalim ang boses niya kaya mas humagikhik
ako at umayos ng luhod.

"Happy birthday, Augustine." I said and I know he didn't expect it when I lowered my
head and take him by my mouth.

"Fuck!" he cursed when I moved my head. "S-Scira, damn it! W-why the fuck—"

"Hmm," I just hummed and moved my hands together with my head. I gripped his part
more and pumped harder, ramdam na ramdam ko ang pagpigil niya para hindi mawalan
ng control.

I felt him touching my hair, my mouth felt full but I did my best to pleasure.

"Fuck it, Scira!" malalim niyang sabi at ipinaikot ang buhok ko sa kamay niya.
I can feel myself felt wetter and wetter with every second I've been doing this to him,
suminghap siya at nagmura at nagsimulang umulos.

I was so lost with pleasure as he pumped himself inside my mouth, marahan ang
kanyang galaw at kontrollado pero kitang-kita ko ang pagpula ng kanyang dibdib at
paglabas ng kanyang ugat sa leeg.

"I love you, fuck..." he cursed. "Mahal na mahal kita."

"Hmm..." I just hummed and moved faster. Mas humigpit ang pagkakapulot ng kamay
niya sa buhok ko at bumilis ang galaw.

I felt like choking and he noticed it, bumitaw siya at marahan akong inilayo, nagdidilim at
nag-aalab ang tingin.

"T-Tin," I called when he looked like a beast losing his patience.

"Stand up," he said at marahang tumayo para alalayan ako.

I met his black eyes and I bit my lip, shy. "D-did I do it wrong? I-I just wanted to try—"

"It felt fucking good, Ma'am." He said darkly and slowly touched my cheek. "I just don't
want it when you choke like that, okay ka lang?" his eyes soften.

"W-well, yeah..." I gulped and licked my lower lip.

"Damn, temptress." He cursed at bigla akong natawa nang buhatin niya ako at
marahang ibinagsak sa kama.
He crawled closer and captured my lips with his deep and sensual kisses. I kissed him
back, touching his nape to give him the exact intensity he is giving me.

His hand is touching my hardened peak, his other one finding ways inside my core and
began stroking my sensitive bud. Hindi ko na alam ang ginagawa, our moans filled the
room.

His digit inside me is enough to make me reach my highest cloud, I convulsed but he
still isn't done, he lowered his body, removed my undies and licked me like a thirsty lion.

His tongue and fingers maneuvered me to another convulsion until his manhood filled
me to the core after a while.

I encircled my legs on his waist and moved with him, sinasalubong ko ang bawat pag-
ulos niya at kakagatin ang labi ko para mapigilan ang maingay na ungol na kakawala.

"T-Tin! Fuck, faster, baby." Bulong ko at kumapit sa kanyang batok.

Pinirmi niya ang baywang ko, kita ko ang pagpula ng kanyang dibdib, his sweat fell, sa
muling paghalik niya ay kita kong mariing nakapikit ang mata.

"I love you," he said when he opened his eyes and kissed me again.

We exchanged deep kisses, hindi alam kung gaano kami katagal na ginawa iyon.
Palagi ko siyang nakikita pero palagi ko siyang nami-miss, every time I am meeting him,
it felt like it's the first time again.
"I love you too," marahang sabi ko at nakita ko ang pag-awang ng labi niya nang bumilis
ang galaw sa loob ko. I gasped when I felt him inside me, filling my womb with his
seeds.

Deep breaths, slow whispers of I love you and deep kisses, I couldn't get enough of
Augustine. After our session in the bed, we found ourselves making love in the
bathroom when planning to just take a shower.

We ended up fucking in the bath tub, muntik pa nga siyang madulas dahil nabasa
namin ang sahig, mabuti na lang ay nakahawak siya at nanlaki ang mata at sabay na
lang kaming nagkatawanang dalawa.

"I'm in love with you, thank you for the birthday surprise," he whispered while I am
resting on his arms, parehong nakabalot sa puting kumot.

"Welcome," I smiled and pinched his nose. "Are you happy?"

He nodded, caught my hand and kissed my knuckles while staring at my eyes.

"Beyond happy, my love." He kissed my knuckles again. "Sobrang saya ko."

"I'm glad you're happy," nakangiti kong sabi at sinuklay ang kanyang buhok. "how about
my gift?"

"Gift?" he chuckled deeply. "That was one of a kind gift, baby. I loved it very much,
parang gusto ko pa nga ng isa."

I smacked his chest, mas natawa siya at niyakap ako.

"You smelled so good, baby. I love you." He whispered.

"I love you too," I smiled happily, mas lumapit pa hanggang sa maramdaman na ang
dibdib niya. "I am happy that you liked it."

"I loved it," he answered me. "So much, thank you for the effort. I've never been this
happy before for my birthdays, ngayon lang."

"Tito and Tita will be sad if you will still mourn for their deaths, Tin." I said softly. "Mas
magiging masaya sila kung masaya ka."

"I know," he whispered, marahang pinaglalaruan ang necklace ko at sinusuklay ang

buhok ko. "I didn't know I'm still capable of being happy like this, thank you for making
this possible."

"Everything for you, Sir." I said and caught his hand, it's my turn now to give him kisses
on his knuckles. "I will do my best so you can have more happy birthdays, I will do my
best to always make you smile."

"Your presence is enough to make me happy, nagtatampo nga lang kasi akala ko 'di mo
naalala." Maktol niya kaya natawa ako, I shook my head and tapped his cheek.

"Silly, of course I have to pretend I didn't know, where's the surprise?" Tawa ko at
nailing siya pero ngumiti rin.

The room is dim, tanging ang lamp shade lang ang nagbibigay ng ilaw pero kitang-kita
ko ang expressive niyang mata habang nakatingin sa akin.
"I love you again, I had fun." He smiled. "Mahal na mahal na mahal kita."

Natawa ako nang pisilin niya ang pisngi ko hanggang sa nakanguso na ako para
patakan ako ng halik, pinaliguan niya ng halik ang mukha ko kaya natatawang yumakap
ako sa kanya.

"I love you too, let's have a good life, okay? Let's cherish this relationship and
compromise if we have misunderstandings." I said and he nodded.

"I don't wanna lose you," he said, smiling. "I'd trade everything so I could have you with
me."

We talked about our lives that night and it was so fulfilling, kilala ko na si Augustine pero
habang nakikipag-usap ako ng masinsinan sa kanya ay mas lalo ko siyang nakilala at
mas lalo akong nahulog.

"I am investing in stock markets so I could earn more, malaki rin naman ang kita roon sa
firm nila Vioxx kasi kami ang nagsimula at mas nakilala pero s'yempre, hindi dapat doon
lang umaasa." He played with my fingers. "I want to give you a family you deserve, para
hindi tayo mahirapang magpalaki ng anak."

"Anak kaagad, huh..." tawa ko pa pero ngumuso rin at tumango.

"Tss, I'm with you because I wanted to spend my lifetime with you, ano, jinowa mo lang
ba ako para i-break bukas?" he tsk-ed.

Natawa akong lalo, pinisil ko ang kanyang ilong at humalik sa labi niya.
"Of course not! I can't see myself having other boyfriends than you. I love you, Tin.
Sagad." I said at nakita ko ang ngisi niya.

"Paanong sagad?" he asked maliciously at nawala ang ngisi ko at iritado siyang

kinaltukan habang tumatawa.

Being with him, I comfortably shared my thoughts too, on how I lived those years we're
apart and he listened to me, didn't say anything as if my words and opinions are very
important to him.

I told him how I strived harder to be better at work, how I felt when we lost my
grandparents, the worry and pain losing Ate Clyte too and my journey to be the better
version of myself.

"I'm proud of you," he whispered while touching my cheek and my heart jumped.

"I'm proud of you too, Tin. I bet your parents are proud as much as I am proud of the
man you became. You're so strong and tough, I am so proud of you." I smiled and
kissed him. I saw how his eyes soften, his lips quivered, nang makitang mukha na
naman siyang naiiyak ay ngumisi ako.

"You're such a soft boy, Tin." I whispered and he stopped, looking at me.

"Hmm?"

"But you're hard," I touched his hard on and he cursed harshly when I laughed hard.
I am quietly sipping on my milk tea when my secretary called and said I have a visitor.
Wala naman akong ginagawa kaya nagdesisyon na akong kitain iyon at nagulat nang
makita kung sino.

It was Angelita Miranda, Warren's aunt.

Hindi ko alam noong una paano siya kakausapin but then I composed myself because I
wanted to close this part in my life.

Pagkatapos namin mag-order ay nanatili akong tahimik, akala ko nga ay ako pa ang
mauunang magsalita pero nauna siya.

"Miss Sandejas, I just wanted to apologize." She started kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya at
malamig na tumingin.

She looks elegant, in her age, maganda at sopistikada pa rin ang itsura.

"I..." she sighed. "I did something terrible in the past to your company. I wanted to
apologize for recruiting your employees that way."

"It wasn't just my company who got damages, Mrs. Miranda." I said formally. "I hope you
would still consider the pain you brought Warren for that schemes. I understand that it's
only business, sometimes, we play dirty but I do hope you'll consider other people too."

"I do," she sighed, I saw how her eyes turned softer. "I just forgot to think of it, nabalot
lang ako sa galit na pati kayo ay nadamay pa. My son left the company and I was alone,
sa galit ay hindi na ako nag-isip."
"Yes, sometime we do irrational things out of anger," I said and sipped on my tea. "And
what we can only do about it is apologize and learn."

"Warren is also my son," mahina niyang sabi, "he's my nephew. He treated me like his
mother, alam kong hindi ko siya pinagtutuunan ng pansin pero buo ang respeto niya. I
just can't believe I did that to him, hindi ko naisip na masasaktan ko siya ng gano'n, I
included him in my evil plans without me knowing."

"Emotional damage is more painful. Ako, nagalit ako noon sa nangyari sa kompanya
namin but I got over it. I understand that it was just business and not all people are fair.
We are all unjust, hindi nga lang natin alam pero may mga panahong mas iisipin mo
ang ikaaangat mo kaysa ang iba pang bagay." I told her and she nodded at me, sighing.

"What pained me the most is the thought of Warren doing that to me, I trusted him and
that pained me more that what happened to the staff." I said.

"I am sorry for ruining your relationship, Miss Sandejas." She said, I noticed her genuine
apology. "I know it was hard fixing it but I am willing to help, k-kung may problema pa
kayo ng pamangkin ko, I-I can help." She offered and I smiled gently, shaking my head.

"What you did was wrong but it made us tougher, I accept your apology but I have a
favor to ask," I said and she nodded at me.

"Anything," she said and smiled.

"I want you to apologize to him, what happened scarred his heart, Mrs. Miranda. Please,
do me a favor and asked for his forgiveness, that would make me happy." I smiled when
she nodded.
Warren fetched me when I finished my work, we dine in the car after our we went on a
drive thru to order.

"Pahingi pa," kinuha ko ang fries ni Warren at natatawang inabot niya iyon sa akin.

"Ketchup, Ma'am?" he showed me the catsup and I shook my head and grinned before
taking his ice cream sundae.

"Gusto ko sawsaw sa ice cream," I said and he chuckled. Wala siyang naging reklamo
nang ako na ang halos umubos ng pagkain naming dalawa.

"Dahan-dahan, Ma'am. Mabulunan ka." Paalala niya nang salitan kong kinagat ang
burger at fries pagkatapos isawsaw sa ice cream.

"Oh, sorry..." I smiled foolishly and he just grinned at me.

"Let me tie you." Kinuha niya ang ponytail sa bag ko, he turned me softly and brushed
my hair with his fingers so he could tie my hair.

"You want more?" he asked me after a while when I finished my foods.

"No, I'm full," I froze when I burped, tumawa lang siya at kinuha ang tissue para
punasan ang gilid ng labi ko.

"You seem to have a big appetite this past few weeks, Ma'am, hmm?" pansin niya
habang hinahaplos ang baba ko at pinunasan ng tissue.
I froze but then cleared my throat and looked away.

"A-ano, uhm, gutom lang." I explained and he nodded.

"If you're still hungry, tell me. Baka may madaan tayong drive thru pa. I'll drive you
home." He said and fixed my seatbelt.

Tahimik ako habang nasa biyahe kaming dalawa, he looks bothered dahil madalas ang
daldalan namin pero hinayaan niya ako ngayon kahit halatang gusto niyang magtanong.

"You're sleepy?" he asked and I simply smiled and nodded, marahang sumandal sa
upuan at inisip ang sinasabi niya.

I felt nothing but the mixture of nervousness and excitement as he drove me home,
marahang sumilip ako sa bag kung saan nakalagay ang kulay puti at medyo mahabang
box at kinagat ang labi ko.

Will he...like it?

We reached home and I was more nervous, hawak kamay kaming papasok ng bahay
habang hawak ko ang bag ko.

"Good evening po," Warren greeted Kuya Deion when he saw him on the couch.

"Good evening," Kuya said formally at saglit akong humiwalay kay Tintin para yumakap
kay Kuya.

"Hi, Kuya. Si Dad?" I asked.

"He took Queen to sleep, bababa na iyon, Mom's in the kitchen, preparing some fruits."
Aniya at bahagya akong pinakawalan. "Uuwi na rin ako mayamaya."

I smiled, tinuro ko ang kitchen kay Warren at kaagad siyang ngumiti sa akin at tumango.

"Sama ako?" he asked.

"H'wag na, lalabas na rin ang Mommy, puntahan ko lang." Ngiti ko at mabilis na hinagis
lang ang bag na hawak sa may table sa sala.

I walked towards the kitchen and I heard Warren calling me pero hindi ko na pinansin
dahil nakita ko na ang Mommy.

"Hi, Mom!" I cheered.

"Oh, anak." She smiled and offered me her hand, mabilis akong yumakap at humalik sa
kanyang pisngi.

"Hi, Mom! Tara sa labas? Nando'n si Warren." I said and she nodded, nakita kong ini-
slice niya ang apple at peras kaya ngumiti ako.

"Hmm, sige, tapusin ko lang." She smiled.

"U-uh, m-may sasabihin po sana ako sa inyo." I said and Mom glanced at me and
nodded.
"Go, ano 'yon?" she asked and I gulped.

Parang nanuyo ang lalamunan ko, kinagat ko ang labi at halos pagpawisan ng malamig
sa kaba kaya tumikhim lang ako at ngumiti.

"Uhm, m-mamaya na lang, Mom. Kapag nand'yan na rin si Daddy." I said nervously.

She glanced at me, mukhang nanunuri pero ngumiti ako kaya ngumiti rin siya at
tumango.

"Alright, tapos na. Patulong naman dalhin—" we both froze when we heard a voice
thundered on the living room.

"Tang ina!" napatalon kami ni Mommy, mabilis na tumakbo sa sala at umawang ang labi
ko sa nakita.

Kuya Deion stood, shocked. Dad is gripping Warren's collar!

I gasped, bumaba ang tingin sa bag ko sa lapag at ang nakakalat na ibang gamit mula
sa loob nito.

"What the hell are you doing?! Thorn Arzeus! Bitawan mo!" Mom hissed angrily, mabilis
na lumapit din si Kuya.

"Gago ka! What have you done!" Dad cursed loudly and gripped his collar more.

"I-I don't know about this, Sir. I was shocked too." Gulat na sabi ni Warren at mas
umawang ang labi ko.
"Thorn, ano 'yang—"

"Buntis ang anak mo, Zidney!" Dad hissed and I froze, I saw him pulled the white thing
in Warren's grip and lifted it at mabilis na lumapit si Mommy at kinuha iyon.

"S-shit..." I cursed and walked towards them.

"Oh my God!" Mom exclaimed.

"Sir," nanlalaki ang mata ni Warren, gulat pa rin. "I will take full responsibility—"

"Gago ka!"

"Dad!" I exclaimed when I saw him lifted his hand and was about to punch. He shifted
his gaze and eyed me, his eyes are dark.

"H'wag kang makikisali rito, Scira Rosalie!" He exclaimed, enraged while my Mom is
stunned and staring at the pregnancy test.

"S-sir, I will marry your daughter—"

"Gago ka, tang ina mo! Makakaisa na akong hayop ka!" he exclaimed and I screamed
when his punch landed on Warren's cheek.

"Dad!" I exclaimed when Warren fell, tumama siya sa may pader at lumunok.
"S-sir... I will—"

"Mom!" I exclaimed pero kumurap lang si Mommy.

"Oh God!" my eyes widen when Dad punched Warren's cheek again, mabilis niya ring
sinuntok ang t'yan nito kaya napaubo ang huli.

"Kuya!" I exclaimed in horror and Kuya just glanced at me and shrugged. "H-help him!"

"It was Dad's dream, pagbigyan mo na," he fixed his glasses, smirking darkly while
staring at the two men na nasa lapag na. Warren isn't fighting, si Dad ay muling
sumuntok at doon na suminghap si Mommy.

"M-Mom..."

"Thorn Arzeus!" Mom exclaimed and walked towards him but Dad lifted his hand to stop
her.

"No, Queen, let me." He smirked evilly and my heart hammered.

"D-dad..." I called.

"Tang ina, ang fulfilling! Ganito pala 'yon?" he laughed but then saw Warren's face
again kaya bumusangot ulit. "Gago ka, ah!" napatili na ako ng malakas nang muli niya
itong sinapak.

Kabanata 30
"Oh my God, Dad!" I exclaimed horribly.

He's still punching my clueless boyfriend on the floor, alam kong nagitla rin dahil wala
siyang alam sa pagbubuntis ko!

My Mom is trying to pull him but he's too dedicated of finally reaching his dreams. Si
Kuya ay seryosong nanunuod pero nakikita ko ang malalaking ngisi niya.

"Y-you fucktard! How dare you touch my princess!" Dad exclaimed.

"I-I will take full responsibility—Aww! S-sir! H-hindi ko po tatakbuhan ang anak niyo!" he
exclaimed.

"Huh?" Dad muttered and pulled his collar.

"I will—"

"Hotdog!" he said smugly.

"You should stop hanging out with Tito Zeij," halakhak ni Kuya habang ako'y
naghihisterikal na roon.

"Thorn Arzeus! Let the kid go!" Mom hissed under her breath, halos hilahin na ang
damit ng Daddy.

"Dad! Shit, Kuya! Help!" I exclaimed and he just smirked at me.

"Sorry, princess—"

"I hate you!" I stomped my feet and helped Mom pulling my Dad.

Todo iwas si Warren sa sapak ni Dad, he's been crossing his arms to prevent the
punches but my Dad is as strong a carabao, hindi papatalo.

"Thorn—" natigil kami ni Mom nang matigilan si Daddy.

I blinked, nakita kong napaupo sa sahig si Daddy at si Tintin ay nakanganga lang doon.

"Thorn?" Mom called and I saw how my Dad frowned, touching his hips.

"B-balakang ko, f-fuck..." he hissed and touched his hips more.

"Shit! Sabi na, eh! Ang buto mo!" Mom exclaimed, mabilis na dinaluhan si Daddy na
ngumingiwi sa sakit ng balakang niya.

Kuya burst out laughing, mabilis na lumapit kay Dad para tumulong.

"Fuck, Dad? Marupok na talaga?" Kuya laughed out loud while helping him.

"Gago ka, Deion!" binatukan niya si Kuya na halos mamatay na kakatawa.

I gasped, mabilis na nilingon ang boyfriend kong duguan ang labi at dumaing sa sakit,
he's trying to sit kaya mabilis akong lumapit at lumuhod sa harapan niya.

"T-Tintin!" I exclaimed, cupping his cheek. "A-are you alright?"

"Careful," kahit may bangas siya ay nagpa-panic niya akong sinalo sa biglaang
pagluhod. "Don't move too hastily."

"A-are you okay?" nangilid ang luha ko nang makitang may namumuo ng pasa sa pisngi
niya, sinubukan ko siyang hawakan pero hinuli niya ang kamay ko.

"I'm fine, baby." He gasped. "Y-you? A-ang baby natin?" nanginig ang boses niya
habang hawak ang braso ko.

"Ayos lang, i-ikaw?" I touched the side of his lips and he frowned.

"I'm—"

"Hindi pa ako tapos sa'yo!" Dad hissed kaya napasulyap ako roon, inaalalayan na siya
ng Mommy at Kuya papunta sa may couch.

"Thorn! Kumalma ka!" Mom hissed.

"No, queen! Hindi pa ako tapos sa gagong—aww! Tang inang balakang 'to!" daing niya
roon kaya napailing ako at hinawakan ang boyfriend ko.

"Come on, Sir. Careful." I helped him up, hindi naman siya nagpabigat at mabilis na
nakatayo.
I heard him groaned, touching his shoulders, medyo paika-ika ang lakad niya kaya
yumakap ako sa kanya para mas maalalayan siya.

"What—stop touching my daughter!" halos mahulog na ang salamin ng Daddy nang

maupo sa couch at tinuro si Augustine.

"Come on, Dad." I hissed and helped my boyfriend sit. "He's my boyfriend."

"So?" halos lumaki ang butas ng ilong niya. "He got you pregnant—"

"Hoy, Thorn! Baka gusto mong ipaalala ko sa'yo paano nabuo 'yang lalaki mo?" Mom
hissed and that made my father stop.

Kuya Deion blinked, mukhang na-curious din.

"That's different—"

"We can talk about this calmly, okay?" marahang sabi ni Mommy.

"But queen—"

"Thornie, iniyakan ko ang parents ko noon h'wag ka lang masapak." Mom said and I
saw how Dad gasped and licked his lip.

"I know, I just..." he sighed, "Tang inang balakang 'to." Bulong-bulong pa niya.
"Ang kulit mo kasi, sabi ko inumin mo 'yong gatas na pang-buto!" Mom flicked his
forehead and Dad frowned, ngumuso naman ako at sumulyap kay Tintin na nakatitig sa
may t'yan ko.

"C-can I..."

"S-sure..." I smiled and he was hesitant at first but slowly moved his hand on my
stomach and caressed it lightly, as if scared something would happen if he did a wrong
move.

The maid came when my Mom asked for the medicine kit, marahang hinawakan ko ang
mukha ni Tintin para suriin ang pasa niya.

"Bumisita ka na ba sa OB? Why did you not tell me? S-sana ay pumunta na tayo
kaagad—"

"Kailan mo nalaman, Scira Rosalie?" I almost jumped when Dad spoke, sumulyap ako
sa kanya at kinagat ang labi ko.

I saw Mom slowly massaging his hips, hawak din ni Dad ang tuhod at hindi ko alam
kung masakit din ba iyon o ano.

"J-just earlier, Dad." I said and glanced at Tintin, nakita kong lumambot ang mata niya
at nangilid ang luha.

"I..." I licked my lip. "I've been vomiting for the last days and I am sensitive with foods so
I tried and..."

Dad touched his head, my Mom sighed but then smiled at us.
"Anong plano niyong dalawa?" sumulyap siya sa boyfriend ko na ngayo'y nakaharap na
sa kanya. "Wala na tayong magagawa, a child is a blessing, unexpected or not. All we
can do is be a responsible parent and guardian."

"Uhm..." hindi ko alam ang sasabihin ko. "I will take care of my baby and—"

"We," Warren cut me off. "We will take care of our baby, Ma'am."

My Dad glanced at my boyfriend coldly, si Kuya ay nakasandal sa sofa katabi ni Dad at

nakatitig sa akin.

"I will take full responsibility, Tita." Augustine said with determination. "I will take care of
my child and girlfriend, if you'd permit..." I saw him gulped harshly.

"It shouldn't be at this time but..." he squeezed my hand. "If you'd permit, I would like to
ask your daughter's hand for marriage."

I gasped, I know we would reach this part of our relationship pero hindi ko pa rin pala
napaghandaan.

My heart is beating rapidly, nangilid ang luha ko roon at hindi kaagad nakapagsalita.

I saw my Mom's eyes widen, natawang naiiling si Kuya Deion habang seryoso at
nakabusangot ang Daddy, inaayos ang kanyang salamin.

Warren pulled his hand from my grip, gulat ako nang paika-ika pa siyang tumayo at
mabilis na lumuhod sa tapat ng parents ko.
"O-oh my..." Mom covered her mouth in shock, napaawang din ang labi ni Dad sa gulat.

"T-Tin..." I called, "why are you kneeling?"

"I know this is too fast, Ma'am, Sirs. I know marami pa akong kakaining bigas bago
maging karapat-dapat sa prinsesa but I...I'm willing to do anything I can just to deserve
her." He muttered, lowering his head.

"I'll be a good husband, a good father. A-alam ko pong marami akong pagkukulang sa
buhay dahil maaga akong nawalan ng magulang p-pero kakayanin ko po para sa mag-
ina ko. P-pupunan ko po sa lahat ng makakaya ko ang pagkukulang ng kabataan ko."

"Oh, God..." I covered my mouth when tears fell on my cheek, nakita ko ang
pagtungong lalo ni Warren at mayamaya'y nanginginig na ang balikat.

"W-Warren, hijo...you don't have..." I saw how my mother's eyes soften, nangingilid na
rin ang luha sa mga mata.

"Let him," Dad said coldly and sat straight, nangiwi pa siya 'nung una at napahawak sa
balakang pero tumikhim at pumormal.

"Would you promise to always take care of my daughter?" Dad asked coldly and
Warren nodded.

"Y-yes, Sir. I promise to do anything to make them happy. I will do my best to be the
best version of myself for them." Hearing that from him, I can't help but tear up more.
Hindi ko alam kung dahil ba sa hormone o ano pero mas napaiyak ako habang
natatanto kung gaano ako ka-swerte sa lalaking ito.

"Will you do anything just so you could marry her?" he challenged.

"Yes, Sir." He nodded again.

"Sige nga, landiin mo si Deion." He suddenly smirked.

Parang umatras ako, I saw how Kuya's mouth parted, natulos si Warren sa gitna at si
Mommy ay nagmura at hinampas ang likod niya.

"Dad!" Kuya exclaimed in horror.

"Valderama!" she exclaimed.

"J-joke lang!" he exclaimed and groaned. "'Yong balakang ko, reyna—"

"Ayan, ang kulit mo!" napadaing ang Dad nang hilahin ni Mommy ang tainga niya.

"O-oo na! O-oo na, iinom na 'nung gatas!" he whined. "Joke lang eh, bakit niyo ko
inaaway?!"

"Patayuin mo na ang bata! Pinapahirapan mo pa eh ganyan ka rin noon!" Mom hissed

and Dad frowned pero tumango rin pagkaraan.
I saw him stood, nakaluhod pa rin si Warren sa gitna at kinagat ko ang labi ko habang
pinagmamasdan sila. I was afraid Dad would punch my boyfriend again but I relaxed
when I saw him tapped his shoulders.

"Stand up, young man." He said stiffly and sighed. "Just...ipapasa ko na sa'yo ang
legacy dahil natupad ko na ang pangarap ko."

Nasapo ni Mommy ang mukha, Kuya laughed at halos masabunutan ko ang buhok
dahil sa Tatay kong tumatandang paurong dahil sa impluwensya ng mga Tito ko ring
sabog.

"Oh, come on, Thoron..." Mom gasped and Dad smirked.

"Tumayo ka, tatambangan kita kapag sinaktan mo 'yang prinsesa ko. Bilin ko lang,
kapag babae 'yang apo ko, pangarapin mo ring gumanti ng suntok—"

"Dad!" tumayo na ako at sumimangot.

"What?" Dad rolled his eyes. "Gano'n dapat, kapag gusto ka ng lalaki 'di papasindak sa
sapak!"

"Tss!" I rolled my eyes and slowly knelt on the ground, nagkatinginan kami ni Tintin
kaya ngumiti ako at marahang inalalayan siya patayo.

Nanginginig pa siya sa biglaang pagtayo pero mayamaya'y mabilis niya akong nahila
palapit sa kanyang katawan. My tears were in the verge of falling again the moment he
buried his face on my neck.
"T-thank you..." he whispered, pulling me more to his body and kissed my hair. "Thank
you, Ma'am, thank you..."

"Shh, tahan na..." I whispered, touching his hair.

"T-thank you, Ma'am, Sirs..." gumalaw ang kanyang mukha at alam kong sumulyap siya
sa pamilya ko.

"No worries, hijo. Sabi ko tawagin mo akong Tita." I heard my Mom chuckled.

"Welcome to the family, pre." I heard Kuya Deion said, lumayo akong bahagya at
kaagad na humawak ito sa baywang ko, nakita ko ang ngisi ni Kuya at pagtapik sa
balikat ni Warren.

"Thank you," Warren's eyes are still bloodshot but he managed to flash a smile.

Ang pabidang pagtikhim ni Dad ang nagpatigil sa amin, I saw how his eyes went from
Warren back to Deion as his smile turned to an evil smirk.

"Last chance, p'wede si Deion—"

"Daddy!" I hissed at ako na ang sumipa sa paa ni Daddy na humahagalpak ng tawa

pero napangiwi at napaupo sa sofa nang sumakit ang tuhod niya.

Habang inaayos ko ang sugat ni Tintin ay wala siyang imik at panaka-nakang

humahawak sa t'yan ko. I smiled when our eyes met, may bigwas man siya mula kay
Daddy ay masaya ang mga mga mata niya at nakangiti ang mga labi niya.
"We'll go to OB tomorrow, hmm? We should get you check." Malambing niyang sabi at
hinuli ang kamay ko, I smiled when I saw him lifted my hand and kissed my knuckles.

"Dito ka na muna matulog, anak, malalim na ang gabi." Ani Mommy doon kaya
napasulyap kami sa kanya.

"No, Ma'am, kaya ko pa naman pong mag-drive—"

"No buts," she shook her head. "Pinaayos ko na ang guest room, doon ka."

I saw Warren hesitating but then nodded and smiled.

"Thanks, Tita." Aniya at tumango si Mommy at lumapit kay Daddy na nag-iinat at nag-s-
stretch ng katawan. She brushed his hair and fixed his glasses kaya mas nangiti ako.

"I wish we'll be like them in the future," biglang sabi ni Tintin kaya sumulyap ako sa
kanya at matamis na ngumiti.

"Why not?" malambing kong ngiti at hinawi ang kanyang buhok. "I know you'll be the
best husband and dad to our children."

"I do hope so," he said and gasped when the cotton touched his bruise again. "A-aww,
Ma'am!"

"Kulit mo kasi," tawa ko at marahang inangat ang baba niya para linisin ang sugat
naman sa gilid ng kanyang labi.
"Oh, wawa naman Tintin." We both froze when we heard a voice, napalingon ako at
nagulat nang makita si Queen na nakapantulog at bagong gising pa.

"Queen?" I muttered. "Bakit gising ka pa, baby?" I said softly, pulling her towards me.

"Noisy, Ate." Aniya at suminghap, nakita kong sumulyap siya roon kina Daddy na hindi
siya napapansin si Queen.

"Sorry," I said softly and brushed her hair, namumungay pa ang mata ng bunso kong
kapatid bago ngumiti at sumulyap kay Warren.

"Hi po, Kuya Tintin. Are you alright?" she asked and Warren smiled and nodded.

"Yes, beautiful Miss. Nadapa lang si Kuya, apir nga." He offered his hand and my
sibling smiled and gave him a high-five.

"Mommy muna, 'Te." She said kaya pinakawalan ko siya.

She walked towards my parents who's busy chatting on the side, pinipisil ni Mommy ang
balakang ni Dad na sumisinghap doon at nagrereklamo.

"Masakit,"

"Ayan, ang kulit! Sabing mag-vitamins hindi nakikinig, kailangan pang isungalngal sa
bibig!" my Mom scolded and Dad groaned and stretched his arm again.

Suddenly, Queen chuckled, natigilan ang dalawa at napasulyap sa kanya.

"Anak," Mom called but Queen already grinned at pointed our Dad.

"Wawa, Thornik. Marupok na ang bones." She chuckled evilly and we laughed when my
Dad's jaw dropped.

Maaga kaming nag-ayos ni Warren kinabukasan para pumunta sa OB, we went to his
condo first before we went to the hospital.

We were both thrilled for our baby, wala pa man ay nag-uusap na kaming dalawa sa
mga gamit at mapilit siyang kailangan na naming pumunta sa mga shop para sa baby.

"Come on, Sir. 'Di pa naman natin alam ang gender." I chuckled but he shrugged and
smiled.

"Then, we'll buy in twos. Both gender." Aniya kaya natawa na ako at umiling.

"Nah, I have something in mind, nai-imagine ko na ang kwarto." I said, mine-memorize

na ang vision ko and we both laughed at that. "I will start designing for our house, gusto
kong ako sa disenyo! May dream house ako na ginawa pero matagal na at may kaunti
akong revision na gagawin. 'Yon na lang!"

"Sure, Ma'am." He chuckled. "Show it to me, hmm?"

I felt his hand on my leg, reaching for my palm, mabilis kong inilapit iyon sa kanya at
kumalabog ang puso ko nang ilapit niya iyon sa labi niya at hinalikan.
"I don't know what good I did in the past to deserve you, our child." I saw his smile, mas
humigpit ang hawak sa kamay ko. "I don't know what I did to experience this happiness
with you."

My heart melted at that, realizing I've been falling for him more each day we're together
and getting to know each other.

"I love you, Tintin." I said softly. "You deserve everything."

We found out that I am eight weeks pregnant, sobrang saya namin at naalala ko pa ang
pag-iyak ni Warren habang naririnig ang heartbeat ni baby 'nung nagpa-check-up kami.

Hindi ko alam pero natawa kami ng doktor sa pag-iyak niya na parang siya pa ang first
time Mommy sa aming dalawa.

Ever since, he's overprotective. Kung hatid sundo ako noon ay mas ngayon, my parents
asked me to stay in our house more often than my condo para maalagaan din nila ako.

Punong-puno na ng brochure at magazine ng pangbuntis ang opisina at kotse ni

Augustine sa kakadala niya kaya tawang-tawa ako at siya lang din ang nagbabasa at
ike-kwento lang sa akin.

I am sensitive with foods yet palagi akong gutom kaya pahirapan kami ni Augustine. I
am super moody and he's the most patient baby daddy ever! Kaya bumabawi ako
kapag hindi na ako bad trip at binibigyan siya ng premyo.

S'yempre, walang iba kung hindi ang pangmalakasang jugjug na natatakot din siya
minsan kaya hindi masyadong maharot ang session namin dahil natatakot siyang
masaktan ang baby.
I am aware what to do for pregnant woman, ang mga pinsan ko ay nabuntis noon at ako
ang dakila nilang muchacha kaya hindi na bago sa akin ang lahat. I should avoid stress
kaya kaunti lang ang trabaho ko at kadalasa'y nasa office lang at umiiwas sa field work.

I should avoid stress pero ngayon ay nag-iinit ang ulo ko kay Augustine.

"Come on, cous, calm down." Darshana chuckled when I asked her to meet me in the
mall when I'm supposed to have a date with my freaking fiancé!

"Nakakainis kasi!" I exclaimed. "We rarely see each other this week! Busy daw siya!
Busy!"

"Hayaan mo na, buntis. Baka busy talaga ang tao, nagpadala naman siya ng driver para
magsundo sa'yo, 'di ba?" she asked.

"Yes!" I exclaimed. "But still...I want him." I sighed.

"Makikita mo naman siya bukas," alo niya sa akin dahil hindi ko na nagagalaw ang
pagkain ko. "Masyadong abala siguro dahil sa proyekto."

"Hmp! Palagi na lang! This past few weeks may mga project siya na marami! I even saw
him texting an Architect! May itatanong daw siyang opinyon, I mean—I'm an Architect
too! I-I can help him pero ayaw niya!"

Humalakhak si Daru, mas sumimangot ako at sinamaan siya ng tingin.

"Tinatawa mo, r'yan?" I hissed at mas natawa siya.

"Didn't know you're this moody when pregnant," tawa niya sa akin. "I mean, you're
always composed, hindi gano'n nagagalit, kalmado tapos ngayon..." hagikhik niya,

I frowned and rolled my eyes, "luh, akala mo siya—"

"Whatever!" she muttered and rolled her eyes kaya natawa na ako sa kanya.

"Weh, kailan mo kakausapin—"

"Anyway, ako pa magbabantay sa mga bata mamaya." She pouted a bit, cutting me off.

"Bakit mo ako binibitin—"

"Kasi bad trip na naman ang Kuya," she fixed her short hair.

Natawa na lang ako at umiling, nang maalala ang kausap ng Architect ni Warren
Augustine ay nawala ang ngisi. The girl is beautiful, alright, mukhang sekreto ang
usapan nila tapos hindi ko alam!

I mean, okay, I'm a bit emotional and irrational but he can ask me anything about
Architecture kasi I'm an Architect too! magaling din naman ako! Sabi ng Mommy ko at
ng mga sa kompanya! Then why...

"Why the hell are you crying, Scira?!" halos lumuwa na ang mat ani Darshana nang
makita ako.

I sniffed, kinagat ko ang labi para pigilan ang pag-atungal.

"H-hindi na ba niya ako love?" I whined and sniffed.

"Oh my God!" Nasapo ni Daru ang noo at mabilis na tumabi sa akin.

I sniffed, she cursed then tried to calm me but I am crying too much. Pinagtitingan na
kami ng tao sa resto pero wala akong paki, ang mahalaga ay mailabas ko 'to!

"Come on, cous. Of course, Warren loves you so much." She said softly. "Busy lang
talaga sa project—"

"E-eh, monthsary namin ngayon, ah!" I whined and stomped my feet, crying more. "E-
engaged na nga kami pero wala akong singsing! S-sabi ko ako na bibili pero ayaw
niya!"

Natawa si Daru, hinampas ko ang braso niya pero tawang-tawa siya habang kumukuha
ng tissue na inabot ng waiter at pinunasan ang pisngi ko.

"Come on, Scira. Alangang ikaw ang bumili ng singsing, eh, siya ang nag-propose?"
she chuckled while drying my tears.

"E-eh, ang tagal, eh! Tapos, naglalambing lang naman ako kanina para maalala niya na
motmot namin ngayon pero h-hindi niya ako binati!"

"Shh, tahan na..." she chuckled and touched my cheek. "It's just hormones kaya ka
nagagalit, s'yempre si Warren mahal na mahal ka 'nun, halata naman. Nakaya ngang
maging Mars mo makuha ka lang."
Nangiti ako sa sinabi niya pero naluluha pa rin, mas pinunasan niya ang pisngi ko at
ngumiti.

"T-talaga?" I said. "H-hindi kaya masyado na akong nagger? I-I'm not like this with my
exes, I mean, h-hindi naman ako clingy tapos nasobrahan ngayon? Am I—"

"Shh, Warren loves you. He'll do anything for you." She muttered then frowned. "Sana
all, 'di ba?"

Nakagat ko na ang labi ko at suminghap.

"B-baka busy nga lang," I said softly. "Babatiin naman ako 'nun, right?"

"Oo naman," she told me.

"O-okay," I nodded and calmed down, sumimsim ako ng tubig at tumango.

"Ti-text ko ang driver, ako na maghatid sa'yo sa bahay niyo mamaya." Daru offered at
ngumiti ako at tumango.

Magkakapit ang braso namin ni Daru habang papalabas ng mall papunta sa parking
nang mamataan ko si Lucas, ang ex ko na may kasamang magandang babae.

Hindi na sana ako iimik pero tinawag niya ako kaya sumulyap ako roon at pasimpleng
ngumiti.

"Hey, Lucas." Marahang tawag ko at ngumiti.

"Scira," alanganin niyang sabi.

"Hello, Lucas! Date?" I saw Daru grinned while looking at him.

"W-well, yeah." Ngisi niya at pinakilala ang babae. "Jo, this is Scira and Darshana.
Guys, this is Jo, girlfriend ko."

"Hi," I said formally while smiling. I even offered my hand and the lady accepted it.

"Hello," she said formally and smiled back.

"Kumusta ka?" I heard Lucas asked kaya nag-angat ako ng tingin at ngumiti. "Mas
gumanda ka, ah?"

"Well, good." I smiled at him. "I'm doing good."

I saw how his eyes landed on my stomach, medyo bumabakat na ang baby bump ko sa
suot na damit at mukhang nahalata niya iyon kaya nagtanong siya.

"U-uh, single?" I saw his awkward smile.

"Engaged," I smiled and showed him my hand pero nang matantong wala nga akong
singsing ay ngumiwi at ibinaba ang kamay.

"O-oh," I saw how he nodded and forced a smile. "Kilala ko ba?"

"Warren Miranda," I said and I saw how his mouth parted.

"Kayo pa rin?" I saw how he looks shocked and amazed, I even notice the
disappointment on his eyes.

"Hmm. Yes." I said.

"That's great!" he chuckled awkwardly. "Uh, sige, best wishes!"

"Thank you, Lucas." Marahang sabi ko at sumulyap sa babae na medyo seryoso at

matalim na ang tingin sa akin. "Congrats, Miss. Sa inyong dalawa. Bye! Take care!"

I held on Daru again as we walked away from them, nakita ko pang nanatili ang tingin ni
Lucas at hinampas na siya 'nung babae at nag-walk out.

"Patay na patay pa rin si ex," Daru teased and I sighed, shaking my head.

"He deserves someone who'll love him too, too bad he just won't give it a try." I
shrugged.

Nakatulog ako sa byahe namin pauwi at kung hindi pa ako ginising ni Daru ay hindi pa
ako aayos. I took my bag, lumabas ng kotse at didiretso na sa gate ng bahay namin
nang matanto kong nasa ibang lugar kami.

"What?" my forehead creased and glanced at my cousin. "Daru, this isn't my house—"

"It is," ngisi niya.

"Huh?" my forehead creased.

She smiled, nagulat ako nang may kinuha siya sa bag at inayos ang mukha ko. I was
confused, lalo nan ang lagyan niya ng lipstick ang labi ko.

"What...Daru, bakit..."

"Shh, dapat maganda ka sa picture, girl!" hagikhik niya at kumurap ako roon.

"Bakit?" I asked but she just smiled at me, sinuklay ang buhok ko at nagtaka akong lalo
nang hawakan niya ang kamay ko at hinila palapit sa malaking kulay brown na gate.

"Daru! Saan tayo? Baka ma-trespassing!" I exclaimed but she just laughed at me.

"Nah, tara, bilis." She said and pulled me closer to the gate.

Nagtataka man ay sumunod na ako sa kanya, I was scared na makasuhan kami ng

trespassing sa pagpasok sa bahay pero nawala iyon nang magbukas ang gate
pagdating namin.

Nagtataka ako at mas na-confuse nang pagpasok namin ay umilaw ang gitnang parte
ng daanan malapit sa kulay silver na fountain na may angels sa gitna.

My eyes widen when I saw a big modern house, pulos salamin ang bahay at sobrang
pamilyar sa akin ng disenyo kaya umawang ang labi ko.
This is the house I designed for us if we'll get married!

Nanlaki ang mata ko nang biglang may tumugtog.

105 is the number that comes to my head

When I think of all the years I wanna be with you

Wake up every morning with you in my bed

That's precisely what I plan to do

I gasped when I saw Vioxx Miranda walking closer to me with a red rose on his hand.

"Goodluck, cous." Daru said and before I could even say anything, she vanished and
Vioxx grinned at me.

"Hello, Architect."

"Vioxx?" I muttered. "Why? I don't understand, bakit may ganito?"

He grinned, offered me the red rose that I gladly accepted.

"Say yes, Architect." He chuckled. "Baka mahimatay ang pinsan kong patay na patay
sa'yo."
And you know one of these days when I get my money right

Buy you everything and show you all the finer things in life

I blinked when I saw the other boys are here too, iba't-ibang kulay ng rosas ang
ibinibigay sa akin.

"Say yes, Mars." Ngisi ni Warrion sa akin. "Didn't know Warren fooling around would get
your attention, huh?"

Nakukuha ko na kaya natawa ako at mas nangingilid na ang luha.

"A-akala ko talaga bakla siya," natatawa pa ako habang naluluha at ngumisi siya.

"He's only dreamt of you, simula noon." He said and smiled. "I'm happy for him, for the
both of you."

"I'm happy you two would be together now, nababaliw si Tintin kapag wala si Sha-sha."
Wave teased and I chuckled before nodding.

Will forever be enough, so there ain't no need to rush

But one day, I won't be able to ask you loud enough

"Pakisabi naman sa jowa mo na bayad muna utang bago plano wedding," humagalpak
kaagad ako sa banat ni Lucian sa akin.
"I'll tell him that," halakhak ko.

"Anyway, say yes, hmm? Pumayag 'yon maging taga-mop ko para sa'yo." He said,
nagtataka pa ako pero ngumisi siya at kumindat. "Congrats, Mars."

I saw Caspian walking, dala ang kulay asul na rosas at inilahad sa akin.

"Kaloka, Mars, parang naluluha pa ako..." nagpunas si Caspian ng luha kaya natawa
ako sa kanya.

"Bakit?"

"Wala na kaming mauuto," he said and pouted kaya mas natawa ako sa kanya.

"Kinakawawa niyo ang Tintin ko!" I hissed and he grinned at me.

"Congrats, Mars." He smiled at me. "Free Casa Amara stay and Lost island tour. Utuin
din namin ulit si bumbay para free cruise ship honeymoon."

"Thank you," I chuckled and he nodded at me.

"I'm happy for the both of you."

Umalis siya at mas lumakas ang tugtog, my eyes widen when I saw my handsome
fiancé making his way towards me, on his arms are different colored roses.

"Hello," nangilid kaagad ang luha ko at halos mapasinghap nan ang abutin niya iyon.
"T-Tin, akala ko..."

"Here, baby." He smiled handsomely and offered me the bouquet. "Matagal naming
pinag-pratisan 'to, mahal ko. Enjoy."

Nagtataka pa ako noong una pero malakas na akong napatawa nang pumunta ang mga
lalaki sa gitna at may spotlight pa sila. I noticed them all wearing white dress shirt,
maging si Tintin ay gano'n din pero may coat siya.

My eyes widen when I saw my family, kids and cousins together with my aunties and
uncles. Nakita ko sina Mommy at sina Daddy na kumaway sa akin. The girls are also
here with the kids!

"This is for you, Sha-sha!" Warren exclaimed and I covered my mouth to suppress my
laugh when they began doing a soft wiggle on their bodies.

"Santisima!" halos masapo ko ang noo ko nang kumendeng doon ang boyfriend ko
habang back up ang mga lalaki.

Sunod-sunod at nagtatawanang kumukuha sila ng mga video habang tuwang-tuwa ako.

I'll say will you marry me

I swear that I will mean it

I'll say will you marry me

They began moving like old Titos kaya tawang-tawa na ako pero may halong kilig dahil
ang gwapo-gwapo ng fiancé ko! I touched my stomach and smiled wider.

Parang manganganak na ako ng maaga nang gumilid ang boys at nag-break dance na
sa gitna si Tintin.

"Oh, God!" umawang ang labi ko.

"Go, Mars! Go, Mars!" they exclaimed.

How many girls in the world can make me feel like this?

Baby I don't ever plan to find out

The more I look, the more I find the reasons why

You're the love of my life

Natigilan pa si Tintin sa pagbe-break dance at napangiwi at napahawak sa pants pero

tumuloy pagkatapos at hindi ko alam kung tatawa ako o maiiyak sa ginagawa ng mga
shunga, sabi nga ni Zirena.

Napaupo siya sa lapag, hinihingal. Nawala ang kanta at mas naging marahan at nakita
ko ang pagtayo niya roon habang inaalalayan ng mga lalaki.

I chuckled when he licked his lip, hinahawi pa ang buhok at lumapit sa akin.
I bit my lip, mas ngumiti siya habang papalapit at halos marinig ko na ang kalabog ng
puso ko. I touched my stomach more, mas humigpit ang hawak sa mga rosas at nangiti
sa kanya.

"Hello, Mars." Lumambot ang boses niya kaya napatawa na ako.

"Baka mahanginan at matuluyan ka, Mars." I said and he chuckled, namungay ang
mata at napalunok.

"Sorry, baby. I didn't want to stress you out but happy monthsary," inilahad niya ang
bahay at doon na ako mas naging emosyonal. "I'm sorry for hiding this to you, the
project I am talking about is this house, our home. Matagal ko na 'tong pinapagawa but I
made a few revisions for your dream house."

"A-ang laki naman." I muttered and he reached for my cheek, nakita kong nangingintab
ang mata sa kanyang paambang luha.

"I lost my family since I was young so," he licked his lip and cupped my cheek more. "I
wanted to build a big and happy family with you, my Architect."

"August..." I muttered, mas nahulog ang luha ko roon.

"We will build a home where there is love and happy endings," he said and I gasped.

"Scira Architect Valderama, my Mars, my Architect, the love of my life, will you give me
the chance to be the happiest man alive?" napahagulgol ako nang maglabas siya ng
pulang kahita, mabilis na lumuhod sa aking harapan at inilahad ang isang singsing.

I set out on a narrow way many years ago

Hoping I would find true love along the broken road

"I'm no perfect man, I'm just...me." He said while staring at me. "Si Mars Tintin na patay
na patay kay Architect, si Augustine na crush na crush ka. I can't offer you enough
riches but my heart. My heart that is always yours."

"Will you marry me, my love?" he said and my I gasped when his tears fell more.

But I got lost a time or two

Wiped my brow and kept pushing through

I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you

"Y-yes!" I exclaimed and nodded, "yes! Yes! I'll marry you."

Nanginginig na inilagay niya ang singsing sa daliri ko at halos matumba ako nang
mabilis niya akong niyakap. I cried on his shoulder, narinig ko ang sigawan at
palakpakan, nakita ko ang flash ng mga camera pero mas nangingibabaw ang
kasiyahan ko ngayong yakap ko ang mahal ko.

Hindi ko siya lubos na mayakap dahil sa bouquet pero mahigpit ang yakap niya at
umiiyak na sa aking balikat.

"T-thank you...I love you, mahal na mahal kita, Scira." He muttered, whispering.
"I-I love you too, mahal na mahal din kita." Bulong ko pabalik.

"Thank you for everything. I-I know I don't deserve you because of what I did but you—"

"Shh," I muttered, marahang tinulak siya at binitawan ang bulaklak. I cupped his cheek
and smiled. "Don't say that."

Nakita ko ang pamumula ng mata niya sa mga luha at mas nanghina ako.

"I love you and you deserve the happiness the world can offer, Tintin." I smiled.

"T-thank you," patuloy na nahuhulog ang kanyang luha.

I cupped his cheek more while staring at his face.

"Never degrade yourself again, hmm?" I smiled. "You deserve everything."

"You are Warren Augustine Miranda," I caressed his cheek and smiled. "And you are
worth it."

Hinatak niya ako sa mahigpit na yakap. Mas lumakas ang iyak niya at halik sa aking
tainga kaya hinaplos ko ang likuran niya at mas ngumiti.

"Mahal na mahal ko kayo ng anak natin," he whispered.

He calmed down after a while, mas lumalim ang kanyang paghinga hanggang sa
bumulong siya.
"M-may sasabihin ako," he whispered. "Secret lang, ah?"

"Hmm? Okay?" I smiled.

"N-nabutas ang pantalon ko." He confessed.

Napahagalpak na ako ng tawa roon, lumayo ako sa kanya at nakita ko ang mapungay
niyang mga mata at ang pagpula ng pisngi. Ang lakas ng halakhak ko na nakikita ko na
ang ngisi ng mga taong nanunuod.

"W-well," he licked his lips and smiled shyly. "SKL."

"SKL?" my forehead creased.

"Sa'kin ka lang," he grinned, kasabay 'nun ay ang pagliwanag ng kalangitan dahil sa

fireworks at nalaglag lang ang panga ko.

Lies are lies but forgiveness is forgiveness and that's a big thing. There are two types of
people, the weak would be too afraid and can never forgive but strong people does.
That's an act of bravery and acceptance. We are not perfect, that's what makes people
human, we make mistakes but we forgive.

Forgiveness is one of the best forms of love, the strong one will willingly say they're
sorry and it will take an even stronger one to forgive and that's the love we have. The
one that make mistakes yet knows how to forgive.

Wakas
"We'll celebrate your birthday later, anak, okay? May business lang muna kami. We
promise, babawi kami at bukas, mamamasyal tayo." My Mom said.

"Promise?" I asked, kinda sad but accepted the fact that they have business to attend.

"We promise, anak." Dad smiled at me.

Saying goodbye to your love ones at young age isn't easy. There are times I would just
thought of giving up, kung sana ay sumama na lang ako sa kanila sa meeting. Maybe
we're all together now.

"Why don't you celebrate your birthday, Warren?" Vioxx asked and I just shrugged, muli
akong naupo sa swivel at hinawi ang buhok ko.

"Why would I? There's nothing to celebrate anyway." I said and checked the paper for
our new construction.

"It's your birthday, gago. You can celebrate with us! Doon tayo sa isla, masaya, walang
tao masyado. Baka may mga chicks pa roong turista." Sabi pa niya, inuuto ako pero
umiling lang ako at ngumisi.

"Hindi ko uto-uto, Vioxx." I said and he laughed, nailing siya.

"Hindi kaya bakla ka?" he asked and I hissed, sumimangot akong lalo at itinaas ang
gitnang daliri.
"Fuck you, wala lang talaga akong interes ngayon. I have new projects, maiisip ko pa
ba?" I said and he laughed, the asshole even mocked me kaya umiling na lang ako.

"Ito na lang, may pupuntahan akong party." Aniya at sumulyap ako sa kanya, kumunot
ang noo.

"I don't do parties, Vioxx." I said coldly.

"Sige na, please?" he muttered.

"Ano bang mapapala ko r'yan?" I asked at mukhang napaisip din siya sa sinabi ko.

"Hmm, free food?" he said at ngumiwi na kaagad ako roon.

"May pambili akong pagkain, Miranda." I said and he laughed, nanloloko pa siyang
tumingin sa akin at ngumisi.

"Workaholic mo kasi, enjoy life, my man! Malay mo makahanap ka ng ng forever sa

party." Aniya at muli akong umiling doon.

"Kailan ba?" I asked and he chuckled.

"Sa birthday mo," I stopped, muli akong sumulyap sa kanya at kumunot ang noo.

"Try it, kaysa magmukmok ka lang sa condo mo." Aniya sa akin. "Malay mo at ma-enjoy
mo, ako sana ang dadalo, I received an invitation from Sandejas-Valderama firm but I
have an important convention to attend." He said and lifted a golden-colored invitation
on my desk.
"They will introduce the heiress, papalit kay Architect Valderama. She's young. Check it
out. 'Tsaka sayang ang pagkain." He even wiggled his brows.

"Saan ba 'to?" I asked.

"Manila," he answered me. "Ako na ang bahala sa flight mo, pupunta ka lang at mag-e-
enjoy."

"Well, can I go home if I'm bored to death?" I asked him, "baka mamaya'y importante ka
roon at kailangan ko pang makihalubilo, I don't want talking to people that much,

"Sure," he smirked at me. "Invited lang naman ako, just enjoy the free foods. Malay mo
rin mahanap mo na si Miss Right."

"Gago," I scoffed then laughed after a while.

Asa pang may Miss Right.

"I want to introduce to you my daughter, Scira Rosalie Sandejas Valderama." Architect
Valderama introduced her daughter, wala akong paki noong una at busy lang sa
pagkain dahil ini-enjoy ko ang free finger foods na sinerve pero natigilan nang lumabas
ang babae at naglakad patungo sa stage.

Scira Rosalie Valderama is gorgeous. She looks too formal, strict and flawless.
Taas noo siya habang naglalakad paakyat sa entablado, with her straight ironed hair
and black sweetheart sparkly dress, I was stunned. Sunod-sunod na kislap ng camera
sa press ang halos magbigay ilaw sa hall pero hindi siya natitinag.

She looks cold and composed, her black eyes are intimidating, her red lips quivered a
bit before it flashed a small smile as she looked at the cameras in front.

Napalunok ako, nakita kong natutuwa sa kanya ang mga bisita, I overheard them
praising her because of her competency, na sa batang edad ay ite-train na siya ng
kanyang ina para sa posisyon.

Her father stood beside her, malamig ang tingin at ngumiti rin sa camera, pati na rin ang
kanyang buong pamilya. They looked like a happy family, may nag-che-cheer pa sa
may table sa unahan at sa susunod ay kasama na sila sa pagpapakuha ng litrato.

My lips rose when I saw how her cold eyes smiled when her family took pictures with
her and congratulate her. I sipped on my drink and licked my lips.

Crush ko siya.

"Hello, uhm, hi! Ngayon lang kita nakita sa parties, I'm Jennifer." The lady beside me
suddenly said kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya, tumaas ang sulok ng labi.

"Hello, Warren." I said and offered her my hand, she accepted it happily.

Jennifer and I had a few chitchats while the program is on-going, nakita kong diretso
ang upo ni Architect Scira doon at may ngiti sa labi. She looks sweet yet somehow
intimidating, napansin ko ang pagkakahawig nila ng kanyang Mommy na medyo
mukhang istrikta rin pero may ngiti sa labi.
"So, what firm are you from?" Jennifer asked kaya mula kay Scira Valderama ay
bumaling ako sa kanya.

"Miranda," I answered and glanced again at the stage.

I saw Scira Valderama looking around kaya napangiti akong lalo at binasa ang labi ko.

She's really beautiful, I like her.

"Ako, I'm from Flores." Jennifer answered kaya tumango ako at bumaling sa stage.
"Ngayon lang kita nakita—"

"Sorry but how old is Architect Valderama?" I asked and she cleared her throat and put
a few strands of hair behind her ear.

"Si Architect Zidney? Uh, may asawa na siya—"

"No, the young one." I said and glanced at the stage again, I saw her looking at my
direction at nanlaki ang mata ko.

Parang nag-init ata ang pisngi ko at napaayos ng upo.

"Twenty ata si Architect Scira," she answered me. "Uhm, enough of her. Engineer ka
ba? Ako, I'm an Engineer."

"Hmm," I nodded at nakipagtitigan sa kanya na nasa stage.

She excused herself, tahimik na umalis sa stage at naglakad palapit. My mouth parted a
bit, binabati siya sa bawat pagdaan niya na tipid niyang ngingitian at magpapasalamat
bago naglakad muli.

Is she going towards me? Parang na-excite ako bigla at umayos ng upo.

She looked around, napatingin siyang muli sa pwesto ko at ngumiti.

I smiled back. She raised her hand and smiled before waving and my heart almost
jumped, halos mapatalon ako at napalunok ng marahas pa.

She's waving at me! Shit!

I bit my lip, raised my hand and waved back at mas naglakad siya patungo sa akin.

"Hi—" nabitin ang boses ko nang lumagpas siya sa akin at may tinawag sa likuran.

"Kuya! Akala ko 'di ka makakarating!" mabilis akong sumulyap at umawang ang labi
nang may lalaki siyang niyakap.

"S'yempre naman, I won't miss this, princess..." the man laughed and kissed her
forehead.

I was stunned, mabilis na ibinaba ko ang kamay at marahas na napalunok.

"Fuck!" I cursed lowly and sipped on my drink.

Tang ina mo, Warren, nakakahiya ka!

"Ayos ka lang?" Jennifer asked and I nodded, nag-iinit ang pisngi sa kahihiyan at
ngumisi.

"Yeah, I'm good. Thanks." I said at kaninang simsim lang ay lagok na ang nagawa ko
nang magkasabay na bumalik sa stage si Scira at iyong lalaki na nakapormal na suit.

Wala na ako sa wisyo hanggang sa dumating na ang oras para bumati kay Scira
Valderama, the buffet table is open now. Gusto ko sanang kumuha na ng pagkain pero
nainggit ako sa mga taong bumabati kay Scira nang bumaba siya sa stage.

I was uncomfortable with suits like this, I prefer dress shirts and tees more, dahilan kaya
hindi ako palagi magpunta sa mga party lalo na at hindi naman importante.

Nakikipagkamay siya sa mga kumakausap na may ngiti sa kanyang labi, she looks
lovely in her gown, mas na-emphasize ang kulay ng mga mata dahil sa itim na buhok.
Her nose is pointed and her skin's milky white, ang hubog ng gown ay mas nagpakita
ng kanyang sariling hubog at mas nagustuhan kong lumapit. Nakakahumaling ang ngiti
niyang malambing.

Makikipagkamay lang ako at babati para may memorya kahit papaanong babaunin pag-
uwi.

Nothing wrong with it, right? Crush lang naman, babati lang ako.

I was uncomfortable with my coat so I decided to remove it, leaving me only with my
white long sleeves dress shirt and bow tie. I brushed my hair with my fingers,
pasimpleng inamoy ang sarili at nang matantong mabango naman ay nakontento.
I lifted my sleeve up to my forearm and smiled, naglakad ako sa hilera ng tao kahit
tinawag ni Jennifer na kukuha na ng pagkain. Natatabunan ako sa dami ng bumabati
pero wala akong pakialam.

I glanced at the side at nakitang walang masyadong tao roon, if I go there, mas madali
akong makakabati sa kanya.

Kinabahan ako at na-e-excite na hindi ko maintindihan. I feel so giddy like a teenager

kaya natawa ako sa sarili.

Nababaliw ka na, Miranda.

I just shrugged, ngayon lang ako nagkainteres ng ganito, why not give a try? Babati
lang ako.

Nagpunta ako sa kanyang gilid habang nakikipag-usap siya sa mga nakakatanda roon.

"Grabe, hija! Nakaka-proud ang bata mo pa at ikaw na kaagad ang aatasan ng Mommy
mo." Marahang sabi ng matanda.

"Thank you, Ma'am." She smiled and I gasped when her voice sounded angelic. Mas
ngumiti siya at medyo lumiit ang kanyang mata roon.

I gulped, mas na-excite nang nawala ang matanda at nasa tabi na niya ako. My heart
thumped, parang kinikilig ako pero tumikhim para hindi mahalata.

She glanced at my side and I felt like my world shook a bit with her stares. Ngayong
mas malapit na siya sa akin ay hindi na ako mapakali.
She looked somehow foreign, may pagka-brazilian ang kanyang mukha at matangos
ang ilong. Her lips are thin, mas lumiit ang itsura nito dahil sa lipstick. Her fierce black
eyes stared at me and slowly, she smiled.

"Uhm, c-congrats!" inilahad ko ang kamay ko at nakita ko ang ngiti niya at tinanggap
ang kamay ko.

"Thank you," she said, I almost smiled when her soft hands touched my rough one.

"Well, uh—"

"Kuya, pasuyo naman ako, I'm thirsty." She suddenly said kaya napaayos ako ng tayo.

"H-huh? Sure, anything..." I said, attentive of her needs.

"I would like a drink sana," marahang sabi niya at bumitaw sa akin. Hindi nagsalita ang
nasa kanyang harapan dahil kausap niya ako.

"Sige, ano bang gusto mo?" I asked attentively.

"Juice lang, Kuya. Salamat." She looked around and pointed the waiter somewhere.
"Ayon, Kuya, pakuha na lang sa kasama mo. Super thank you!"

Mabilis akong lumakad patungo sa waiter pero biglang natigilan at napaisip sa sinabi
niya.
Kasama ko?

"Oh, pre, kulang daw ng waiter, ikaw na lang mag-serve roon sa may stage." The waiter
said at nagitla ako nang ilahad niya sa akin ang tray.

"H-huh?" I blinked, confused but then I saw what he's wearing.

He's wearing a white dress shirt folded up to his forearm, a bowtie and slacks. I cursed,
mabilis na napasulyap sa suot ko at mariing napamura.

"Fuck?" I whispered.

What the hell? What the fuck?

"'Yan na pre, doon muna ko sa kabila. Double time kasi dami pa lang bisita." Tinapik
niya pa ang balikat ko at napasinghap ako, sumulyap sa orange juice sa tray at wala sa
sariling naglakad patungo kay Scira na abala sa pakikipag-usap.

Tumikhim ako, kinuha ang juice sa tray at inilahad sa kanya.

"Architect," I said and she glanced and smiled.

"Thanks, Kuya!" she smiled, hindi na muling tumingin at uminom ng juice habang
nakikipag-usap sa mga tao.

Nakaka-gago ang pangyayari pero hindi ko alam biglang natawa ako habang
naglalakad palayo hawak ang tray.
"What the hell," bulong ko pa at muling natawa, natutuwa na hindi maintindihan.

"Oh, pre, pasuyo naman." Hindi na ako nakagalaw nang may mag-abot sa akin ng tray
ang waiter na dumaan. "Padala naman sa may stage."

"S-sure," nangisi ako at mas natuwa nang matabihan ko sa may stage si Scira nang
magbigay ako ng drinks sa kanyang pamilya.

"Napagod ako," she said softly. "But masaya. I loved it very much, thanks, Dad and
Mom." She hugged her parents at mas lalo lang akong natuwa.

She's family-oriented, another bonus. I like her even more now.

My phone rang pagkatapos kong magpunta sa stage, inabutan ako ulit ng ihahatid kaya
tumigil at inabot ang phone sa bulsa at sinagot.

"Oh?"

"Kumusta, having fun?" he asked and I smirked and shook my head.

"Gago, mamaya ka na tumawag, nagse-serve akong pagkain." I said and I felt him
stopped.

"What?" he asked, "ginagawa mong gago ka?"

"Waiter na ako rito," I said and he burst out laughing.

"What the hell, Warren, seryoso?" he asked while laughing and shook my head,
smirking.

"Mamaya na tayo mag-usap, busy ko mag-serve." I answered at nang tumawa na lang

siya ay ibinaba ko ang phone at muling natawa ng wala sa sarili, nababaliw na rin ata.

I got a crush on her.

Kahit nakakapagod ang gabing iyon ay hindi ko maipagkakailang na-enjoy ko. It was
very different for my birthdays these past few years, kadalasan ay nasa sementeryo
lang ako o hindi kaya'y magkukulong sa kwarto. I couldn't believe was in a party having
fun this time kahit naging waiter real quick.

It's actually good, what a happy birthday to me. Her presence and smile is a gift for me
that night, mabuti pumunta ako.

She's my crush, that's it. Kontento na akong pasimpleng nag-i-stalk sa IG at wala ng

iba. I've been liking her post pero marami siyang likers kaya hindi siguro ako
napapansin. I even added her on facebook but she didn't accept me pero okay lang.

The assholes told me to make a dummy account, effective raw sabi ni Wave pero hindi
naman ata at hindi naman ako napapansin.

She has weekly or monthly IG post at ayos na iyon sa akin. There are times where
she's posting her photos in IG stories at tinadtad ko iyon ng puso pero hindi naman na-
seen ang message kaya natawa na lang ako sa sarili at hinayaan na lang na hindi
talaga ako mapapansin.
I didn't even think I'll meet her again kaya grabe ang gulat at tuwa ko nang makita ko
siya sa isang convention abroad. She's with her Mom pero sa isang linggong seminar
ay siya lang ang madalas umattend.

Even the foreign people are interested at her, magaling din siyang magsalita at
makitungo, minsan ay intimidating talaga pero that's the part of her personality. I
watched him from afar, natutuwa sa kanya at medyo kinikilig kapag nagkakalapit kami
minsan kahit hindi naman niya talaga ako napapansin.

Tapos na ang convention, I saw her carrying large amount of papers and envelopes on
her way out, she refused the help offered to her at naglakad palabas.

Doon din ang labas ko kaya sumunod ako at nakita ang pagsinghap niya nang may
malaglag na folder na hawak niya. My forehead creased, marahang naglakad palapit at
nakitang natanggal ang lace ng kanyang suot na heels.

"Shit," she cursed, looked around and sighed. Nakita kong sumubok siyang tumungo
pero sa dami ng dala ay hindi magawa.

"Need help?" I asked and she glanced at me, I saw how relief filled her eyes as she
smiled.

"Uh, hello, Sir. Can I ask for a favor? If it isn't a bother, uhm, can you...tie my lace? I'm
sorry, I just...I couldn't." Nag-aalangan pa siya, nahihiya pero ngumiti ako at tumango.

"Sure," I said and slowly knelt to tie the lace of her heels.

I took the folder on the floor after, put it on her arms and spoke.
"Done," I glanced at her things. "Need help?"

"No, I'm fine." She smiled again, "thank you so much again! Have a good day!"

I watched as she turned her back at me and went outside kaya nangiti na lang ako at
sinuklay ang buhok ko ng daliri.

She's too close yet too far from me.

Kontento na rin naman akong simpleng crush lang siya at kung may pagkakataon ay
nakikita siya, I am contented being a simple fan yet when given the chance to be close
to her, I immediate grabbed it without further hesitations.

Hiyang-hiya ako sa sarili habang naiisip na iniisip niyang brokenhearted ako sa tang
inang Warrion Alcantara. I couldn't even believe she saw me being silly around with
him.

Joke lang naman kasi, gusto ko lang inisin si Warrion pagkatapos nila akong
pakiusapang magbantay sa girlfriend niya at magpanggap na bodyguard kuno. I just
didn't expect she'll see like that!

Sayang! Sayang na potential liligawan sana kapag nagkalapit kami pero tang inang,
naging potential SisMars na lang ako!

Hindi naman sa nagrereklamo pero nahihiya ako sa sariling mukha akong gago para
lang hindi niya mabukong lalaki talaga ako at nagpapanggap lang para mapansin niya. I
spent my time watching tutorial for skin cares, lipstick shades or what just to impress
her.
Nagtanong pa ako sa mga babae 'nung mga kaibigan ko kung ano pa bang kailangan
ng mga babae para mapag-aralan ko at hindi mapahiya kapag nagtanong ang Ma'am
ko. I could be the ideal kumare tapos ay aamin din ako, I couldn't fool her forever.
Maghahanap lang ako ng lakas ng loob para sabihin sa kanya ang totoo.

Before I could even confess, she found out about me, pretending to be a gay. Galit na
galit siya at parang dinurog ang puso ko nang matantong umiiyak sa ginawa ko. I
begged her for another chance, telling her I'll do my best not to lie and messed up again
and she gave me one kahit alam kong hindi ko deserve.

I wanted to be a better man for her, she's an angel, a queen. She deserves everything. I
wanted to give her the world kahit parang impossible, I wanted to work harder so she
wouldn't get worried for our future. Kahit humiga na lang siya sa kama at ako na ang
magtatrabaho, gagawin ko lahat para maging masaya at komportable siya.

I don't do promises, afraid that I will break it like my parents. Natatakot akong mangako
dahil baka hindi ko matupad pero sa kanya, nakita ko ang sariling nangangako, h'wag
lang siyang mawala.

I promised to never hurt her again, I promised to never lie but in the end, I am just like
them...the promises I made, I ended up breaking them.

Galit at nagpa-panic si Vioxx sa tawag nang sabihin niya sa akin ang nangyari, wala
ako sa sarili habang nagmamaneho patungo sa branch namin doon, tulala at hindi
makapaniwala.

She fooled me! She lied to me!

"Ayan na, let's all say thank you to Engr. Warren Miranda, without his help, wala tayo
ngayon dito." Tita Angelita said and I was stunned when the new employees clapped
and smiled at me.
"Mom!" Vioxx exclaimed.

"H'wag kang makikialam dito, Vioxx!" he hissed and glanced at me and smiled.

"Hijo," he called but I remained stoic, staring coldly at her.

I feel numb, seeing her walking towards me. I looked high at her like she is my second
mother but then...she lied to me, she used and hurt me.

"What's the meaning of this?" I asked coldly, staring at her with nothing but
disappointment.

"Hijo, salamat." She smiled. "Dahil sa'yo, may mga magagaling na tayong empleyado—
"

"What the hell did you do, Tita?!" I exclaimed, my voice bombarded na si Vioxx ay
napatayo at lumapit sa amin.

"W-what?" she looked so soft while saying that. "'Di ba, nagpatulong ako sa'yong mag-
abot ng mga kontrata sa mga nakausap ko? And you did—"

"You said I'll just give the damn papers! Hindi ko alam kung anong laman 'nun!"
sumabog na ang boses ko sa galit.

My heart is pounding, my breathing is labored, kumuyom ang kamay ko at mapuputol

na ang litid kung hindi lang ako pinigilan ni Vioxx.
"Warren," he called.

"B-but hijo, you told me noon na willing kang tumulong kung may—"

"Yes! I am willing to help you in anything, Tita, but not like this!" I exclaimed, frustrated.
"I will help this company in anything but not this! Kompanya iyon ni Scira! I told you I'm
pursuing her and you..." my breath labored, mas hindi na mapigil ang galit at nangingilid
na ang luha.

"Y-you used me! You used me!" I exclaimed.

"Warren, let's go..." Vioxx pulled me.

"No!" hinatak ko ang braso ko at muling bumaling kay Tita na malamig na ang tingin at
tila hindi pasisindak sa galit ko.

"I treated you as my mother, h-hinangaan kita, I-I looked up to you..." the pain doubled,
thinking that it's the woman I trusted who betrayed me in the end. "Yet you...you never
thought of me as a part of your family."

I stared at her, I felt my tear fell as I looked away, hinatak ang braso ko sa pinsan at
mabilis na nagtungo sa bahay nila Scira para magpaliwanag pero galit na sampal lang
ni Mrs. Valderama ang natanggap ko at ang galit niyang boses.

"You don't deserve my daughter!" galit niyang sigaw, her voice is strained, kita ko ang
galit sa mga mata.

"D-dahil sa'yo nag-away kami! You don't deserve her! Leave!" sigaw niya roon, wala na
ang marahang boses noong nagkausap kami.
"M-ma'am..." my voice broke, "p-parang awa niyo na po, h-hindi ko po ginusto, wala po
akong alam. I-I can explain my side."

She's catching her breath, para hindi muling makasugod ay pinipigilan lang siya ng
kanyang asawa na malamig din ang tingin sa akin.

"S-sir," my voice broke, wala nang pakialam kung umiiyak ako sa harapan ng mga
magulang niya ngayon. "M-magpapaliwanag po ako, k-kakausapin ko lang si Scira, I
didn't want this to happen—"

"Leave!" I froze when it was Mr. Valderama's voice filled my ear. "Leave and never
come back! Ginugulo mo ang pamilya ko!"

Mas nahulog ang luha sa pisngi ko, nanghihina at hindi na alam ang sasabihin. I am in
the verge of kneeling pero nakawala si Mrs. Valderama at tinulak ako palabas ng gate.

"H-h'wag na h'wag kang papakita sa anak ko! Y-you don't deserve her! Leave her
alone!" galit niyang sigaw at nang maitulak ako ay isinarado ang gate sa mukha ko.

Wala ako sa sarili at tulala, hindi alam ang pupuntahan until she texted me.

I drove where she is with my eyes filled with tears, nanginginig ako, natatakot na hindi
na muli niya tanggapin pero habang natatantong nasira ang kanyang pamilya dahil sa
akin, mas nanghina ako at nawalan ng lakas magpakita pa sa kanya.

Scira is willing to be broken for me, she's willing to leave her family and I could never do
that. I couldn't let her. Masira na ang amin, h'wag lang ang relasyon niya sa kanyang
pamilya.
While watching her in the bench from my car, wala na akong maisip kung hindi ay kung
paano ko siya nasira. Because of me, she was stressed, because of she got hurt,
because of me, nagkagulo sila.

Wala na ba akong gagawin sa buhay na ito kung hindi ang masira at makasira?

I saw her shaking and crying and I felt bad and hurt, gustong-gusto ko siyang yakapin,
gustong-gusto ko siyang hagkan, patahanin at punasan ang kanyang luha pero paano
ko gagawin kung ako naman ang nagsimula 'nun?

My phone kept on ringing, umiilaw ito pero natatakot akong sagutin, takot na mas
masaktan ko siyang lalo.

Ang bobo-bobo ko talaga, minsan na nga lang magmamahal, palpak pa.

My lips quivered, nanlalabo na ang mata ko sa mga luha pero ayoko na siyang mas
lalong masaktan dahil sa akin.

Her mother's right, I don't deserve her, I don't deserve the world she's in. Sobrang layo
namin pero pinipilit ko ang aking sariling mapalapit sa mga bagay na hindi talaga para
sa akin.

"W-Warren?" her voice shook when she answered my call. "Good thing you called!"

Bumilis ang paghinga ko, takot na mapahikbi kaya kumuyom ang kamay ko sa
manibela at mariing ipinikit ang mata.
"S-sunduin mo n-naman ako, oh." She muttered. "P-please, w-wala na akong
mapupuntahan."

Hindi ako umimik, ramdam ang sakit sa dibdib ko. Humigpit lalo ang kuyom ko sa
kamao at patuloy na nahulog ang mga luha.

"S-sagutin mo naman ako. Please. S-sunduin mo ako." She cried, scared. "N-natatakot
ako..."

I'm sorry, baby...patawarin mo ako.

"Go home," hindi ko alam kung paano ko nakayang sabihin iyon na walang panginginig
ang boses.

"T-Tin?" she sobbed.

"Umuwi ka na lang." I said, pinagmamasdan siyang humihikbi sa bench at mas lalo

akong nanghina.

"L-lumayas ako," she confessed. "I-I don't know if I could come back, d'yan na lang
ako—"

"I don't want to see you again," I whispered and I heard her gasp. "You probably know
what I did now, right?"

I'm sorry, Ma'am...I am so sorry. Wala na akong nagawang tama kung hindi ang saktan
ka.
"N-no..." she cried more, "m-mali lang sila, h-hindi ako naniwala sa kanila, Augustine!
You...can't do that, right? You promised!"

I felt the painful pang on my chest as I lowered my head, hiyang-hiya sa kanya, hiyang-
hiya sa sarili ko.

I tried to be better but I keep on failing. I keep on disappointing and hurting other
people, I keep on failing my damn unworthy self.

"That's why I fucking hate promises..." I muttered and her sobs filled my ear.

"T-Tin, y-you're joking, right? Y-you promised me you'd never lie, you won't do that—"

"Turns out, I'm like them too, Scira." I said. "I fucking break promises too."

"N-no...you won't. You...you won't lie to me, right?" she exclaimed.

"I-I'm sorry..." I whispered and turned the call off.

I saw how her cries turned a bit louder, halos mapaluhod na siya at nanghihinang
pinagmasdan ko siya at galit na sinuntok ang manibela ko.

"G-gago, ang gago mo, Augustine..." I gritted my teeth and pulled my hair frustratedly.

I watched her from afar, tahimik na dumadamay, protecting her from the threats her
family got when her sister vanished. Palihim lang akong nagmamasid, kumukuha ng
lakas sa kanya para mabuhay pa kahit pagod na pagod na.
For hurting her in the past, I deserve all the pain I've been feeling for years. I deserve
the pain, I deserve the rejection.

Anong karapatan kong maging masaya kung lahat na lang ng ginawa ko ay ang
magbigay ng sakit?

I stared at the dark sky and smiled sadly, lifting the can of beer on my hand and drinked
it.

"B-bakit 'di niyo na lang ako sinama, Ma?" mahinang bulong ko sa hangin at tumitig sa
kawalan.

Today's my birthday and yet, ganito na naman ako. Ano pa bang bago?

Hindi na rin naman ako naghahangad maging masaya sa buhay na 'to, hindi na akong
naghahangad na mahalin din pabalik.

Payapa ang isla pero malamig ang simoy ng hangin at madilim ang langit, sa harapan
ko ay ang bangin at sa ibaba ay ang shipwreck. I stared at it and harshly removed the
tears on my eyes.

"S-scam naman 'tong isla na 'to," I whispered and stopped my sobbed from crying.

They said this island is the witness of a tragedy yet it gives everyone happy endings
they deserve and yet...oh well, maybe assholes like me don't deserve happy endings at
all.
I did nothing but to hurt her, I don't deserve a woman who deserves everything the
world can offer, ano nga bang maibibigay ko? Sakit at panloloko lang naman ang
ginagawa ko.

I don't deserve her at all...I'm just me, Warren Miranda, I don't deserve such angel like
her, masisira ko lang siya.

I stared at the cliff again, my head throbbing because of drinking. Tears fell on my
cheek again.

Hindi na talaga siguro ako magiging masaya pa.

"A-ang daya niyo naman, Mom, Dad..." bulong ko sa hangin, ang pagpatak ng
panibagong luha sa mata ay sumabay sa patak ng ulan mula sa langit. "S-sana sinama
niyo na lang ako."

Mas nabasa ako ng ulan at natawa ng wala sa sarili, nilaklak ang alak at mas nahilo.

Inihulog ko ang isang paa ko sa bangin, natatawa pa pero nagdodoble na ang paningin.

If I jump...will I die? If I jump, will the pain stop?

I was so tempted to end my unworthy life when my asshole of a cousin called,

screaming his lungs out, telling me to not jump or it is him who'll kill me instead. Hindi
niya naisip, kung tatalon ako at papatayin niya ako, parehas lang.

"Patahimikin niyo nga ako!" I exclaimed when the assholes laughed, inabutan ako ni
Warrion ng bote ng alak na kaagad kong kinuha.
I saw Caspian fixing the karaoke machine, tumitikhim na para ihanda ang vocals niya.

"Oh, ito input mo!" Lucian stood, inilalahad ang song book kay Caspian na tumawa
nang makita ang kanta.

"Very classic, yeah!" he burst out laughing and showed him the rock sign.

"What can I do? Maybe we can ask my wife regarding Architect?" Wave said and my
forehead creased, umiling ako at muling uminom.

"I don't want to bother her anymore," I said, sumandal sa sofa at umiling.

"She still likes you," Warrion told me. "I can see it, halata naman sa isla..."

"Hindi na 'yon," maliit akong ngumiti. "I don't deserve her, man. What can I offer?
Nothing."

"Sumubok ka ulit," Vioxx told me. "You see, man. You won't be successful kung hindi ka
susubok. Try again, nothing's wrong with it."

"I just..." I muttered, biglang natulala at wala na naman sa sarili. "I'm afraid I'll hurt her
again, ayokong saktan siya, I'm afraid. 'Di bale ng ako, h'wag lang siya."

"Tutulong nga kami," Lucian said kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya. "para saan pang nag-
mop ka sa barko ko? Duh, may cruise ship tour nga kayo."
"Paano kung hindi pumunta?" bumagsak ang balikat ko.

"Edi subukan ulit, gago, walang silbi kung magda-drama ka lang d'yan." Warrion said
and I sighed, shaking my head.

"H-hindi na raw nga ako mahal," I said, nang tumugtog ang karaoke ay tumulo ang luha
ko.

"Putang ina, bakit ka umiiyak?!" Vioxx exclaiamed and I bit my lip, muling suminghap at
halos ibuhos na sa bibig ko ang alak.

"A-ayaw na nga sa akin! A-ayaw kong ipilit, p-paano kung masaktan ko siya—"

"This song is dedicated to Warren Miranda, it's okay not to be okay, my man! Kumanta
na lang tayo mga kababayan!" umalingawngaw ang boses ni Caspian at napamura na
ako nang kumanta siya.

Mahal kita simula pa nung una

Sana'y mahal mo rin ako

"Tang inang, ano 'yan?!" I exclaimed, tumutulo ang luha pero ngumisi siya at kumindat.

Dahil ikay nag silbing pagasa

At naging ilaw sa'king mundo

"Para ito sa mga taong nagmahal na hindi na minahal pabalik!" he said.

Nang unang beses masilayan ko

Ang iyong kagandahan

Na parang meron tumulak

At hindi nag-alinlangan

Nagtawanan na naman ang mga gago, si Lucian ay humahagalpak, hinila ang mga
lalaki at pumaikot sa akin, naghawak-hawak pa ng kamay.

"Ako na bahala sa background song, next one!" may pinindot siya at hindi ko alam kung
iiyak ba ako o magmumura nang paikutan ako ng mga abnoy habang kumakanta ang
Alcantarang may sayad.

Parang 'di ko yata kaya

Pag sa buhay ko'y wala ka

Aanhin ang pag-ibig kung puso ay nag-iisa

Humawak pa siya sa kanyang dibdib at ma-dramang nagbe-bend.

"Gago, kapag nabalian ka r'yan, Caspian, hindi ka namin sasaluin kay Polaris." I hissed,
naiiyak na naman habang nakikitang natatawang napipilitan si Wave at Warrion sa
kalokohan 'nung iba.

Sino'ng aking tatawagin

Sino'ng aking hahanapin

Sino ang magpupuno sa 'king paglalambing

"G-gago kayo," natawa ako, nagpupunas ng luha. "Bayaran niyo sideline ko sa inyo,
dapat si Architect kapalit."

"Naman!" hagalpak pa nila kaya nailing ako, natatawang hindi maintindihan.

"Pagselosin niyo," nasa tapat kami ng videocall, kausap ang mga naiwan sa Pilipinas
habang nasa cruise ship kami na pangako sa akin ni Lucian.

"Paano?" I asked. "I don't like involving other girls, assholes."

"Sino ba nagsabing ibang babae?" ngisi ni Caspian.

"Huh? Paano?" I asked, confused.

Sabay-sabay na sumulyap ang mga gago kay Lucian na unti-unting umawang ang labi
at suminghap.
"T-tang ina niyo!" he exclaimed, "ayoko!"

Pero wala siyang magagawa, pinamukha ko sa kanya ang pagma-mop at pagri-risk ko

ng buhay ko para lang maging tagahatid niya ng sulat.

Mukha namang nakonsensya kaya napapangisi ako habang sinusuotan siya ng asawa
niya ng wig na kulay blonde.

"Cap, si Architect daw nasa bar." Sumilip si Sebastian, ang crew ni Lucian at natawa
bigla sa nakita sa loob. "Luh, ano 'yan? Bumigay ka na, Cap?"

"Fuck you," he hissed.

"Such a bully, don't bully my Luci nga, basher!" G exclaimed kaya ngumiwi si Baste
pero natatawang nanuod sa kanila.

"Use this blonde hair kasi I saw kanina na Architect is kinda jelly-jelly sa girl you're with."
She said and my forehead creased.

"Who?" napaisip ako, "Jasmine? She's a colleague."

"Oh, is that Jasmine?" she shrugged, "basta, the girl with blonde na buhok. I think she'll
be more jealous if she saw you with a blonde." She grinned.

Nakita kong tinapik niya ang pisngi ng asawa at ngumiti. "Good luck, Luci!"

"Baby, do I really have to do this?" He muttered and I frowned.

Nagpapa-baby na naman ang bumbay. Akala mo talaga.

"Yes, of course! Let's help Warren, okay? Daming help niya and it's sad if he'll be sad,
dapat happy kayo, happy siya. Happy tayo all!" she cheered at natawa ako.

"Tama, 'di ba, G? Dapat happy din ako?" Marahang sabi ko at ngumisi si G at tumango
sa akin.

"Tama! High five tayo!" natawang nakipag-apir ako at ngumisi kay Lucian na masama
ang tingin sa akin.

Hindi ko mapigilan ang tawa nang naglakad papunta sa akin si Lucian, nakabusangot
pero pilit na ikinikendeng ang balakang.

"Amputa," napahagalpak na ako kaagad.

"Ano ba, papi, umayos ka." Pumitik ang daliri niya at marahang umupo sa tabi ko.

"Tang ina, bombay." Mas napahagalpak pa ako nang sobrang sikip sa kanya ng suot
habang naglalakad patungo sa akin.

"Gago, umayos ka, harutin mo ako! Matalim na ang tingin sa akin ni Architect!" he
exclaimed quietly and I bit my lip, pasimpleng sumusulyap sa mahal ko na nakaupo,
umiinom ng alak pero halos patayin na ako ng titig.

I placed my hand on his waist, sabay kaming kinilabutan, sa may counter ay sumisilip
ang crew at si G na tawang-tawa at hindi ko rin mapigilang matawa.
"Go na, jelly na si Architect!" G said, nag-s-spy doon, may hawak pang telescope kaya
natawa na ako.

"Landian mo pa," bulong ko kay Lucian at uminom ng alam at nang nagkatinginan kami
ay halos mabuga ko ang alak sa itsura niya.

"Tang ina, ang pangit mo." Tawa ko roon at kinurot niya ako, I cursed, binatukan siya at
natawa.

"Gago ka, last na 'to, kung hindi ka lang nag-mop, asa kang gawin ko 'to." He hissed.

Pasimpleng harutan ang gawa naming dalawa, tawang-tawa ako sa itsura niya pero
mas natutuwa rin sa talim ng tingin ni Ma'am.

What now, baby? You jealous? Do you like to take me back now? Do you still love me?

Tama nga, hard work pays well. There is no success if you'll never try, hindi ka
makakarating sa pinakamataas na palapag kung hindi ka magdedesisyong sumubok ng
isang yapak.

Looking at my wife happily conversing with her family, I can't help but feel contented. My
only dream is to be noticed by her, my only dream was to be with her pero binigyan ng
sobra ng Panginoon ang mga hiling at pangarap ko lang noon. He gave me more than
what I prayed for.

I only wished for Scira but he gave me a family, he gave me a kid as well, he gave me a
family. Hindi na ako mag-isa ngayon, may pamilya na akong magiging lakas ko para
mas maging masaya at mabuhay. May inspirasyon na akong kumayod.
Getting to know and having fun with Scira's happy family, parang nagkapamilya na rin
ako, nagkapamilya ulit ako. Hindi sila mapangmata, they accepted me in their family at
komportable akong makipag-usap sa kanila.

I can still remember how Tito Thorn and Tita Zidney welcomed me to their family. I can
still remember it vividly, on how they referred to me as their son.

I watched my wife standing while laughing with her cousins, suot-suot niya ang gown
para sa reception namin at hindi mawala ang ngiti ko habang pinagmamasdan siya.

She's just a dream...a dream I never thought I could have. A dream I never thought I
could touch.

Our eyes met when she shifted her gaze and I immediately flashed a smile. Her eyes
soften, kumaway siya kaya nagdesisyon na akong tumayo para sunduin ang mahal ko
sa mga pinsan.

I excused myself to Dad, Tito Thorn, who asked me to call him that and Deion. Tinuro
ko ang asawa ko at tumango sila, hinayaan akong umalis.

"Hi, girls." Bati ko sa mga pinsan niya na napangisi at kumaway.

"Hi, Warren! We are glad you're a part of the family now!" Darshana smiled at me and I
smiled back.

"Thank you for welcoming me," I said, placing my hand on my wife's waist and kissed
her head.
"Wow! Sana all!" Daru exclaimed kaya sabay kaming natawa.

Scira rested his head on my chest, mas humawak ako sa kanya at marahang hinaplos
ang kanyang tiyan.

"Welcome to the family, Warren!" Zirena smiled and I nodded.

"Thank you, I'm glad being a part of this wonderful family." I said.

"No worries, basta ba alagaan mo 'yang si buntis? Alam mo namang moody." Tawa ni
Zire kaya napatango ako at mas yumakap sa asawa ko.

"Of course," I chuckled. "I promise to take care of her, always."

I excused myself and my wife when I noticed how tired she is. Her baby bump is
showing, she looks beautiful in her white gown and I couldn't help but to fall for her
deeper every time, na parang hindi pa ako hulog na hulog sa lagay na ito.

"Yuhoo! Congrats, man! Finally, huh? You got her?" sinalubong kami nila Vioxx na
nakangiti.

"Hello, guys! Thank you so much for today!" my wife told them, smiling sweetly.

"Hello, Scira! Congrats, we're super masaya!" G cheered, yumakap sa asawa ko

habang binibiro ako 'nung mga lalaki.

I smiled and chuckled, nakita kong nagkatuwaan sa yakapan ang mga babae kaya
sumulyap ako sa mga pinsan at kaibigan ko, nailing.
"Grabe naman si Tintin, blushing like sixteen." Ngisi ni Caspian kaya natawa ako.

"Fuck you all," I said but then smirked. "But of course, thank you."

"Ganyan talaga, malakas ka sa'min, eh." Ngisi ni Lucian doon.

"Ninong kami, ah?" Wave said kaya tumango ako at ngumisi, napatingin ako kay
Warrion na tuod na nakatayo ata at tumaas ang labi.

"Congrats, man." He said at humaba ang nguso ko, gusto mang-asar.

I put my hand on my waist, pumilantik ang kamay at ngumisi.

"Paano ba 'yan, darling, break na tayo?" pinalambing ko ang boses at humagalpak ang
mga lalaki.

"Walang SciRen, WarWar pa rin!" hagalpak ni Caspian.

Nakita ko ang pandidiri sa mukha ni Warrion kaya humagalpak ako ng tawa.

"Sorry, darling, kay Scira na lang ako kakalembang..." mas lumaki ang ngisi ko nang
natatawang yumakap sa akin si Sha-sha at bumati sa mga lalaki.

"Sorry, guys. Sa akin na lang kakalembang si Mars." My wife teased kaya mas natawa
kami.
After the picture taking, I finally have my alone time with my wife. I let her sit on my lap,
umikot ang kanyang braso sa aking batok at yumakap ako sa kanyang tiyan at
humaplos.

"Tired, Ma'am?" I whispered softly.

"Hmm," she hummed. I smiled, hinuli ang kanyang baba at hinanap ang kanyang mata.

I saw her soft black eyes, I felt like drowning again as I gave her a soft peck on her lips.

"Mahal na mahal kita," bulong ko sa labi niya.

"I love you too," I saw how genuine love filled her black eyes, ang ngiti ay umabot sa
kanyang mata. "I'm lucky to have you, my love. Mahal na mahal kita."

My heart thumped harder, nangingilid ang luha ko pero nang makitang naiiyak na rin
ang asawa ko ay nagpigil ako at marahang humalik sa kanyang tiyan.

"I love you and our baby, Ma'am. I love you so, so much." I glanced at her eyes again.

Our lips met, humigpit ang hawak niya sa aking batok at marahang pinirmi ko ang
kamay habang sabik na humahalik pabalik. She purred a bit, I felt like burning but we
stopped when we were running out of air.

We laughed, nagdampi ang ilong namin at sabay na nangiti.

"I can't wait for tonight," I whispered.

"I can't wait too," she whispered and smiled lovingly at me.

"I love you," I whispered again. "I got you, finally."

Mas humigpit ang yakap ko sa kanya nang maramdaman ko ang halik niya sa aking
ulo, I closed my eyes, feeling the warmth of her body against mine.

"O-oh, Queen!" napamulat ako nang suminghap ang asawa ko.

I opened my eyes, glanced at the side and I cursed when I saw Queen Scira, my wife's
youngest sister fell on the ground. Napaupo siya, mukhang nadulas.

"Queen!" I exclaimed, "baby, tutulungan ko lang." I said, tumayo ang asawa ko.

Tumayo rin ako, papunta na sana kay Queen na nakaupo sa lapag pero hindi pa ako
nakakahakbang ay may batang lalaking lumapit na sa kanya.

"You alright? Let me help you." I saw Sirius helping Queen Scira on the ground, hinuli
nito ang tingin ni Queen at inalalayan patayo.

Napatawa kami ni Scira doon at nagkatinginan, may ngisi sa labi.

The emcee called us for a dance, niyaya ko ang asawa ko at sa gitna ng maraming tao
ay mahigpit ko siyang niyakap, dinarama ang kanyang init.

Sabi nila
Balang araw darating

Ang i'yong tanging hinihiling

At nung dumating

Ang aking panalangin

Ay hindi na maikubli

I danced with my loving wife, the woman I ever dreamt of. I danced with her, my crush,
the love of my life and the mother of my future children. The light of our home.

"I love you, Tintin." She whispered while touching my shoulder.

"I love you too, Sha-sha," I chuckled. "Super twins forever, hmm?"

"Super twins forever," she chuckled, mas yumakap sa akin at humilig. "Sa pederasyon
may batas."

At ngayon, nandyan ka na

'Di mapaliwanag ang nadarama

Handa ako sa walang hanggan

'Di paaasahin

'Di ka sasaktan

Natawa na ako roon, humalik sa kanyang buhok at mas niyakap siya para isayaw.

"Ang magkukumare..." I started and she laughed. "Let's say it together, Mars." I
whispered.

"Ang magkukumare, stays forever...kakalembang together." We both said and laughed

with our silliness.

I closed my eyes after that, "I become a lot of person, I become an engineer,
bodyguard, bellboy, taga-mop, gardener, kumare mo, mail man."

Natawa siya, "ang kulit mo talaga, patay na patay ka kay Sha-sha naman, Mars."
Ngumisi ako at bumulong.

"But despite of everything I became, do you know what's my greatest dream, the dream
I just achieved now?" I asked and she stopped for a while.

"Hmm? What?" I pulled away softly, searched for her eyes and when I met hers, I
smiled before cupping her cheek.

"To be your man," I whispered. She smiled and our lips met. As I closed my eyes, I can't
help but be emotional.
Finally, I'm home.

AL Special Chapter

"Where do you wanna go now, Sha-sha?" maharot na sabi ng asawa ko kaya napatawa
na ako at sumulyap sa kanya.

"Hmm, I want to buy more onesies for our baby." I said and touched my round stomach.

He smirked, I saw how his eyes soften while glancing at my stomach.

I smiled when I saw how amazement and adoration filled his face, marahang tumungo
siya at lumambot ang puso ko nang tumungo siya para hagkan ang tiyan ko.

"We...are really having a family now." Tila naninibago at namamangha pa rin niyang
sabi.

"Hmm," I hummed, I slowly took his hand and placed it on my six month old stomach.
"We're having a baby, Tintin."

I couldn't express how much my heart felt warm while looking at him, his eyes are now
swelling, nagiging emosyonal na naman kaya natawa ako.

"Seriously, Tintin? Ikaw ata ang buntis." I said and a tear escaped his eye.

I bit my lip to stop my smiles, inabot ko ang pisngi niya gamit ang isang kamay ko at
hinawi ang kanyang luha.
"S-sorry, baby...I just..." he sighed and closed his eyes, ang isang kamay ay
nakapatong pa rin sa aking tiyan habang ang isa'y ipinatong niya sa palad ko sa pisngi
niya.

He closed his eyes and rested his cheek on my hand.

"I'm just happy, Ma'am." He said softly. "This is just a dream and yet..."

"Dreams do come true, Tintin. Lalo na kapag hindi ka sumusuko at lumalaban." I

smiled.

Nagmulat siya ng mata at tumitig sa akin kaya ibinaba ko ang kamay ko sa kanyang
batok. Slowly, I pulled him towards me before catching his lips for a brief kiss.

Mas namungay ang mata niya, nang lumayo ako ay nagpatak ako ng halik sa kanyang
ilong at sa kanyang noo at nagtagal doon.

I heard his relaxed sigh, ang kamay niya'y bumaba sa baywang ko at mayamaya'y
biglang yumakap sa akin at naglambing.

"I don't know what I'll do without you, Ma'am." He whispered.

"I don't know what to do without you either, Sir." I whispered back.

Saglit pa kaming nagtagal sa yakapan namin at naramdaman ko na lang ang halik niya
sa balikat ko at ang paghawi ng buhok ko bago bumulong.
"Mall tayo, mahal ko?" he whispered and I nodded.

"Sure!" I smiled. "And...can we go to salon, Tintin? I wanted to trim my hair, I feel like it's
too long already."

"Hmm, sure." He said.

"And, uhm, facial clinic? I feel like I'm having black spots na." Reklamo ko kay Warren
na mabilis na inabot ang mukha ko.

I saw him staring at my face, his finger touched the tip of my nose and nodded.

"May black heads ka na, sis. Very, very bad." Biglang lumandi ang boses niya kaya
bigla akong napatawa.

He laughed too, tinampal ko ang kamay niya at natatawang pinatakan niya ako ng halik
at muling inilagay ang iilang hibla ng buhok sa likod ng tainga ko.

"Sa true lang, sis, pero okay lang 'yan, may black heads na rin ata ako." He pointed his
nose at nang titigan ko ay wala naman kaya sinapok ko ang balikat niya.

"Wala nga!" I hissed.

He laughed and caught my hand.

"Wala nga!" I exclaimed. "Mas malinis pa ang mukha mo sa akin, ah! Madaya, sana all!"
He laughed, nailing siya at hinuli ang labi ko para magpatak ng halik. "Kidding, baby..."

"I really need a facial now, 'no?" I said in a worried voice, "I think napapabayaan ko na
ang face ko, Tintin. 'Di na ako nakakapag-skin care."

"Hmm, nakakapag-skin care pa naman." He said. "I'm doing it to your face if you're
sleeping early, right?"

Humalukipkip ako at ngumuso.

"Sa bagay..." I sighed and glanced at him. "Pero Tintin, minsan kasi late ka na
nakakauwi kaya no skin care kapag nakakatulugan ko, maybe I should really go to a
facial spa now?"

"It's okay, whatever you like. We can check our baby's onesies first then proceed to
salon and do your facial spa?" he suggested.

"Hmm, good idea." I tapped his nose with my finger. "Very good, Tintin. Would you go in
a facial spa with me?" I slowly put my finger on his lip.

"Sure, anything for my super twin." He caught my finger and bit it kaya nanlaki ang mata
ko.

His malicious and sexy eyes stared at me and my heart hammered inside my chest.

"Tintin!" I exclaimed.

He slowly took my hand, kissing the back of my palm while staring at my eyes.
"You look more beautiful every day, Ma'am." He muttered while staring intently.

I gulped, binasa ko ang labi at sumulyap sa kanya.

"Really? Kahit...may black heads na ako?" he chuckled, kissing my hand again before
slowly intertwining his fingers with mine.

"That won't make you less beautiful, that's makes you human. Wala namang perpekto,
'di ba? Whatever happens, I'll never love you less."

Augustine really has a way with words and it makes my heart so happy every time he'll
talk.

"Pinapa-in love mo naman ako sa'yo ng super, Augustine!" I stomped my feet and he
laughed and winked at me. "Luh, super pa-fall!"

"Hmm, you make me fall for you every damn time, Ma'am. Nothing's wrong with us
falling more and more each day, right?" kinalabit niya ang baba ko at napanguso lang
ako at ngumiti.

"I love you, Tintin ko." I muttered.

"I love you too, Sha-sha..." he pinched my cheek. "Let's go pamper my two babies."

Kakagaling lang namin sa OB ngayong umaga para sa monthly schedule ko, nag-off si
Augustine sa trabaho para masamahan ako kaya bonding namin today with our baby
boy sa tummy ko.
"Sir, wallet mo?" I asked and my husband glanced at me before pointing the small
drawer in front.

"There, why?" he asked and glanced at me.

"Hmm, papalitan ko ang photo ng ultrasound ni baby because it's his six months na." I
smiled.

"Alright, sure." He smiled at me kaya dali-dali kong kinuha ang wallet niya at binuksan
para palitan ang picture na naroon.

May dalawang lagayan ng picture ang wallet niya, ang isa'y nakalagay ang wallet size
na wedding picture namin at sa kabila ay ang ultrasound picture ni baby namin no'ng
five months pa lang. Pinalitan ko ang kay baby ng picture niya for his six months and
smiled after.

I took my pink wallet, pinalitan ko rin ang picture ni baby at napasulyap sa picture ko
with Tintin sa kabilang parte ng wallet. It was a selfie from our engagement party, no'ng
nakasimangot siya dahil natuklasan ng mga lalaki na nabutas ang pantalon niya.

Sa sobrang tawa ko ay sumimangot na siya at masama ang tingin sa camera no'ng

nag-aya akong mag-picture. I find it adorable kaya ginawa kong picture dito.

"Tawang-tawa ka na naman," pansin niya kaya kinagat ko ang labi para pigilan ang
tawa. Sumulyap ako sa kanya at nangingiti.

"Wala, natatawa lang ako, Tin." I muttered. "Paano ka nag-practice ng break dance
noon?"
Ngumuso siya, natawa na ako nang mamula siya at tumikhim. "S-secret..."

"Weh?" I asked. "Sino nagturo sa'yo?"

"Nothing," tikhim niya. "Ma'am, we shouldn't talk about this, change topic—"

"Nahihiya!" tinusok ko ang pisngi niya, mas namula lang siya at umiling.

"Nothing, really..." he shook his head, ashamed.

"Sige na, Augustine..." lambing ko.

"No," he answered and shook his head.

"Ayaw mo talaga?" I asked and he shook his head firmly.

"No, I'm shy..." tumikhim siya.

Tumitig ako sa kanya, walang effect dahil patuloy lang siya sa pagda-drive, nakatitig sa
daan at namumula. I'm curious about it, ni hindi niya sa akin sinabi paano siya nag-
practice kaya nag-isip ako ng paraan.

"Edi h'wag!" I hissed quietly.

Humalukipkip ako, tumitig sa daan na matalim ang mga mata. Nararamdaman ko ang
pagsulyap-sulyap niya kaya mas ginalingan ko ang acting at mayamaya'y teary-eyed
na.

I sniffed and I saw him froze.

"B-baby—" humikbi ako bigla at nakita ko ang pagkakatigalgal niya.

"M-Ma'am—" naramdaman ko ang pag-gilid niya ng sasakyan kaya mas di-nramahan

ko pa. I covered my face, sobbed and I can hear his small curses while stopping the
car.

"Fuck," he cursed. "W-what's the matter?" I felt him removed my seatbelts at halos mag-
evil smile na ako habang umaarteng totoong nasasaktan.

Ang galing ko palang umarte, may luha talaga!

"Shh, what's the matter?" he hushed me while slowly taking me for an embrace.
"Ma'am, shh, sorry na...what is it?"

"A-ayaw ko na sa'yo! Damot ka!" I hissed, mabuti ay medyo paos pa ang boses dahil sa
inubo ako kakalantak ng ice cream kagabi kaya mukha talagang makatotohanan.

"Ma'am, sorry na..." he hummed and kissed my hair. "Alright, what is it?"

"A-ayaw mo kasi sabihin p-paano ka nag-practice. Damot! T-tatanong lang, eh!" I

whined and he gasped, mas humigpit ang yakap sa akin at humalik sa ulo ko.
"Alright, sorry...sorry, okay, sasabihin ko na." He said.

Ngumisi ako pero hindi niya naman nakikita dahil nakasiksik ako sa kanyang dibdib. I
felt him caress my hair and sighed.

"The truth is, nagpaturo ako sa mga gago." Aniya at hindi na ako nagulat doon.

"Well, Caspian said I should impress you or something. Sayaw daw ako pero I don't
know how to." He said. "So, I asked him for help. Uhm, you know, youtube is the key."

I bit my lip, natatawa na pero nagpipigil.

"Pumayag sina Wave sa back-up dancer kahit ano, ayaw nila. You know him and
Warrion, they're like a living stone. Tulala sa isang tabi, kung 'di sisipain, 'di gagalaw."
Natatawa na ako pero ikinalma ko ang sarili.

"And...Lucian said that maybe, I could do a break dance or what?" he cursed. "My
asshole cousin even offered to give me a fucking macho dance lesson."

Doon na ako napatawa, lumayo ako sa kanya at nang magsalubong ang mata namin ay
lumambot ang mata niya at marahang pinunasan pa ang kakarampot na luha ko mula
sa successful na pag-acting.

"You okay now?" he said softly.

"Hmm," I hummed. "Pero tuloy mo muna." I said in a small voice.

"But well, I tried but it's so cringey. I mean, okay, I think I can dance pero para akong
hinuhubaran, Ma'am." Aniya.

The made me laughed out loud, ngumuso naman siya at hinaplos ko ang pisngi ko.

"Tapos hindi nila kaya ang break dance, 'di raw kaya ng skills nila kaya in the end, we
ended up going to a dance studio to learn." He said and I am still laughing, halos
mapahawak na ako sa tiyan sa kakatawa at nakita ko ang pamumula ng mukha niya
lalo.

"You...went to a dance studio, Tin?!" I exclaimed and he nodded shyly.

"Y-yeah," nahulog ang buhok sa kanyang noo kaya natatawang hinawi ko iyon.

"In any case, do you have any videos or what?" I asked, "I wanna see you all practice."

"I think Wave has a copy, gago 'yon, ayaw sumali puro video ang ginagawa." He
muttered, ngumisi ako at tumitig siya sa akin. "Don't tell me..."

"Can I watch?" I smiled at him cutely.

"Ma'am...it's embarrassing!" halos lumiit na ang boses niya. "I looked so stupid at first
and—"

"Oh, you danced so handsomely always, Tintin." I caressed his cheek. "I just want to
see you do a cute wiggle-wiggle with your booty."

"But..."
"Please?" I closed my eyes and opened it again, nagpapa-cute sa kanya. "For Sha-sha
and our baby boy?"

He stared at me, he looked hesitant and shy but I know better...marupok 'yan.

"Please?" I asked cutely.

"Hindi ako marupok, ah?" he licked his lip. "Okay...I can ask Nievarez for a copy."

"Yey!" I cheered and lifted my hand in the air, doing a happy dance. "Thank you, Sir,
love you!"

An amused smile played on his lips while staring at me, nilingon ko siya at ngumiti ng
matamis.

He chuckled and ruffled my hair, "I'm so damn whipped, Ma'am. I love you."

"Love you too, 'di naman talaga nag-cry, joke lang." I giggled and he smirked and
pinched my cheek, bumaling sa manibela bago pinaandar ang makina at napailing.

"Nung nagpaulan siguro ng karupukan, nagti-twerk kami..." he muttered and I burst out
laughing when I heard it.

Habang nasa biyahe ay nagkatuwaan kami ng asawa ko, I know our baby is still on his
six months, ni wala pa nga kaming naisip na name pero ito kami't nag-iisip na ng
Ninong at Ninang sa binyag niya.
"Oh, I will choose Daru and Zire for the Ninang sa side ko and Kuya Chiel and Kuya
Macky." I said, "sila pa lang ang sure ko, Tin, check ko muna 'yong iba kong mga
kamag-anak, sa'yo ba?"

"Hmm, Lucian." He immediately said kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya. "Tiba-tiba anak natin
do'n, Ma'am, ma-datung." Sabay kaming nagtawanan.

"Bumbay, right?" I chuckled, "why did you all keep on calling him that?"

"Utangan ng bahay, daming barya, eh." Tawa niya at sumulyap sa akin. "Mahilig nga
lang maningil kaya 'di 'yan magdadalawang-isip kapag naningil ang inanaak."

"Alright, noted. How about Warrion?"

"P'wede na, 'tsaka si Nievarez. Ninang naman si Zire, right?"

"Hmm, yes. Si Vioxx at Caspian?"

"Huh! H'wag na!" ngumiwi siya, "kung kuripot 'yong iba, mas kuripot 'yang dalawa, si
Caspian puro sideline akala mo may pinapakaing isang dosena pero kuripot!"

I laughed and shook my head, "eh pinsan mo?"

"Tss, sugar daddy kuno. Ma-pera kay Serafine, kulang na lang ibigay ang buong
Araneta." I laughed more when Tintin shook his head. "Pero kuripot 'yan, Ma'am, h'wag
ka na umasa."
My husband brought my pink hand bag while we're inside the ball, nakakapit ako sa
kanyang braso at sa isang braso niya nakasabit ang bag ko.

He looked so hot wearing only his black shirt and maong pants, ang silver dog tag ay
nasa kanyang leeg at medyo bagsak ang buhok at magulo dahil hindi masyadong nag-
ayos ng pormal yet...still handsome.

My heart hammered while looking at him, ang s'werte ko talaga.

"Onesies first, Ma'am?" he smiled when he saw me looking, kaagad naman akong
ngumisi at tumango.

I saw a group of teenage girls glancing at us, mukhang nasa kolehiyo pa ang mga ito.
They giggled at the sight of my husband and I pouted.

Habulin pa rin si Tintin!

Bumaling ako sa asawa ko at halos pumulupot na sa kanya.

"Hmm, is this a date, Sir?" I asked while clinging on him and he glanced at me and
raised his brow.

"P'wede, or we can call it...sister bonding?" lumambot ang boses niya bago kumindat,
natawa bigla ako at nakita kong natigilan ang mga kolehiyo.

"Alright, sis. Kalembang na this!" I giggled, nakita kong napasulyap si Tintin sa tinitignan
ko at bumulong.
"Hmm, jealous?" he whispered.

"'Di 'no," ngiwi ko.

"Go with me," he said kaya sumulyap ako. "When we walk, move your hips."

"Huh?"

"Basta," ngiti niya pa kaya napatango ako. "One...two...three."

"Let's go, sis!" lumakas ang boses niya at mas lumambot, natatawa ako pero
nakipagsabayan. Sabay na gumalaw ng maarte ang balakang namin, kumekendeng pa
habang naglalakad at nakita ko kung paano lumuwa ang mata ng mga bata nang
makita si Tintin.

I had fun with Tintin while doing our kumare bondings, natatawa pa ako because he
answered my whims and allowed me to color his nails too.

Parehas na may color ang nails naming dalawa ngayong gabi, hot pink sa akin and
color nude sa kanya, sabay pa kaming nagpa-facial after buying another batch of
onesies for our baby boy. We've eaten our dinner too kaya medyo gabi na kaming
nakauwi sa bahay.

"Chiel," nagulat pa ako nang magsalita si Warren at nagitla ako nang makita si Kuya
Alchiel sa sala ng bahay namin, tumayo siya ng makita kami at ngumiti.

"Date, huh?" he smirked.

Nagkamay sila at batian ni Warren, lumapit ako kay Kuya at yumakap kaya yumakap
siya sa akin at ngumiti.

"How's pregnancy, Scira?" he smiled.

"Okay naman, Kuya. Tintin is taking care of me." I smiled at my husband and he smiled
back. "Uh, napadaan ka pala, Kuya?"

"Uhm," he licked his lip. "I just want to talk to you about something, that's if...it's okay."

"Sure!" I nodded, "ayos lang."

"I'll prepare your tub first, Ma'am." Baling ng asawa ko kaya ngumiti ako at tumango sa
kanya. "Chiel, una muna ako." He excused himself.

"Upo tayo," inalalayan ako ni Kuya paupo kaya ngumiti ako.

"Salamat, Kuya. Kumain ka na?" I asked and he nodded.

"Hmm, I'm good, you?"

"Yeah, kumain na kami ni Tintin. Kanina ka pa ba? Sorry if matagal kami, I didn't know
you'll come. Sana nag-message ka para nakauwi kami kaagad." I said.

"No, it's okay." He chuckled. "Kagagaling ko lang din ng firm, I came here not an hour
ago. Ayos lang."
I nodded, nang may dumaang maid ay nakisuyo ako sa juice at sumulyap kay Kuya na
napabuntong-hininga nang magkatinginan kami.

"Are you okay?" I asked worriedly, he looks so worn out and stressed.

"Yeah," he licked his lip, his blue eyes soften. "I just, I want to talk to someone about
this."

Kumalabog ang puso ko, parang may alam na ako kung anong sasabihin niya kaya
napaayos ako ng upo at napatitig sa kanya.

"Did you..."

"I think I saw her," he said and my mouth parted.

"O-oh my God..." I muttered, parang nanlambot ako at napatakip sa bibig. "K-kuya, a-

are you..."

"I don't know..." he sighed exasperatedly, stressed and frustrated. "B-baka namamalik-
mata lang ako, h-hindi ko alam..."

"Ma'am?" inilapag ng maid ang juice at kaagad akong nagpasalamat, I immediately took
one glass and drink it to calm myself.

Nang matapos ay sumulyap ako kay Kuya na malambot ang tingin sa akin.

"When? W-where? Did you tell Mom..."

"No," he shook his head. "Ayokong paasahin si Tita habang 'di pa ako sigurado, it was
too quick, Scira. I didn't expect, sa sobrang bilis parang namalikmata lang ako..."

Nangilid ang luha ko at nakita kong gano'n din siya.

"But I know that's her...I know her face..." he whispered. "I-I just, she just vanished and I
couldn't see her anymore."

I sighed, nagkatinginan lang kami at napailing ako.

"P-please, Kuya...help us." I muttered desperately and he nodded.

"Of course, we're all helping to find her, it's just so hard, Scira. We did everything pero
parang kulang pa rin." He sighed. "I don't know..."

Inabot ko sa kanya ang baso ng juice, he thanked me and drink it before resting his
back on our sofa.

"Ayaw ko sanang sabihin habang 'di pa ako sigurado pero hindi ko kayang itago ito,
Crest will be emotional if she heard this, baka ma-stress si Tita at ma-ospital ulit, the
only person I think who can hear me right now is you. I don't mean to stress you
because you're pregnant."

"It's okay, Kuya. This is a relief for me, palagi kong naiisip siya, minsan nga
napapanaginipan ko. I was there when she vanished but I couldn't even help her so, this
is a big help for me." I muttered and touched his hand, nakita kong mas nanghina siya
roon, mukhang naluluha na.
"Thank you..." he gripped my hand tighter. "Thank you so much, Scira."

Saglit pa kaming nag-kwentuhan ni Kuya habang naroon, I asked for a simple snack at
natawa si Kuya roon.

"Thank you, nag-abala ka pa." he smiled.

"No worries, I just, okay ka pa ba?" my forehead creased. "You looked so restless to
me, the last time, Tita Thallia came to our house and talked to my parents, hindi ka raw
lumalabas masyado."

"Mom's just overreacting," he shook his head and smiled faintly. "I'm fine, they just
refused to believe me."

"How's work, Kuya?" I asked. "I saw Adira going to court the last time, wala ka raw?
Hindi ka pumapasok?"

"I'm taking a vacation," he chuckled. "I've been a trash these past years, my Dad's mad.
Marami na akong naitalong kaso."

My jaw dropped and he just shook his head.

"I'm fine, I just have to take a break to fix my shits. I'm good." He smiled.

"Take care of your health, Kuya. Pumapayat ka ata?" I noticed and he chuckled, natawa
na rin ako nang itaas niya ang braso.
"I still have muscles, Scira. Don't worry, kaya pa sumapak." He winked kaya napailing
ako, nangingisi.

Saglit pa kaming nag-usap nang sumulyap siya sa orasan niya at napailing.

"It's late, I should go. Hindi ka dapat nagpupuyat, buntis." Aniya kaya ngumisi ako.

"Minsan lang naman," I answered and he chuckled, napasulyap siya sa envelope sa

lamesa at kinuha iyon at inabot sa akin.

"Oh, before I forgot. Can you pass these to Tita Zid?" he asked and I nodded, binuksan
ang envelope at sinilip ang nasa loob.

"What's these?" I asked.

"Zion helped me pulled some strings, these are her last transactions and places she
went before she vanished. It took a while but that's complete." He smiled.

I nodded, kinagat ko ang labi at binuksan.

I read the papers, her bank statements and my eyes narrowed on her IDs photocopies,
nanlaki ang mata ko at sumulyap kay Kuya.

"D-did she..."

"Yes," he sighed and nodded, "matagal na."

When Kuya left, sinundo ako ni Tintin at sinamahan akong magbabad sa tub na
inihanda niya sa akin. He noticed my silence kaya humalik siya sa balikat ko at
yumakap.

"What's the matter, Ma'am?" he whispered and I glanced at him on my back, medyo
mas lumubog pa ako para makasandal sa kanyang dibdib.

"I just...I am hoping we'll see her again soon." I whispered.

"Si Clyte?" aniya.

I nodded, humaplos ang kamay niya sa tiyan ko at mas niyakap ako.

"We will find her soon, baby." He assured me. "We are asking help from the army too,
nakausap ko si Darling Warrion."

Natawa na ako roon, sumulyap ako sa kanya at nasalubong ko ang malambot niyang
mga mata.

"Hmm, thank you for the help, Tin...I love you." I whispered.

"Anything for you, Ma'am..." he touched my face. "I don't want you stress, lalo na
ngayon at buntis ka so, as a husband, it's my responsibility to help you unload your
stress. I should help you and your family, which is my family too now."

Mas kumalabog ang puso ko at mas dinungaw siya.

"S'werte ko naman kay Tintin," I muttered.

"Mas s'werte ako sa'yo," he chuckled. "Best friend na, asawa, Ma'am at Kumare pa."

Sabay kaming nagtawanan, I felt his hand below my breast kaya tinapik ko iyon.

"Hoy, Sir, chansing tayo r'yan?"

"Ay, boobs mo na ba 'yon?" I rolled my eyes when he smirked. "Akala ko tiyan pa rin."

"Pa-simple, gusto lang maka-score..." I muttered and smacked his arm kaya
natatawang hinuli niya ang kamay ko at hinagkan.

"What should we name our son, Ma'am?" he whispered. "Nakita ko 'yong listahan mo
no'ng nakaraan, have you chosen?"

"Hmm," nag-isip pa ako. "I have my favorite now sa mga naisip ko at nalista but
s'yempre, I want your opinion too."

"Ano bang favorite mo sa nalista mo so we can start choosing," he whispered and

kissed my ear.

"Hmm, how about Timothy Braxton?" I whispered and he immediately nodded.

"Sure, Ma'am, that's a very handsome name, mana sa akin, pang-pogi." Tawa niya
kaya nailing ako.
"Excuse me, Tintin, let me remind you na sister kita noon. Sus, Wala 'yang Warren
Augustine na pangalan mo sa Mars Tintin mong nickname." Asar ko at napasinghap ng
sundutin niya ang tagiliran ko.

"Tin!" I hissed and he laughed more, mas niyakap ako.

"Alright, Timothy Braxton Valderama Miranda would sound really good, I liked it but it's
quite mouthy, what should we can him? Like a nickname or something?"

"Ayon nga ang pinag-isipan ko," I said and chuckled. "Ako si Sha-sha, ikaw si Tintin
tapos..." sumulyap ako sa kanya.

"Tapos?"

"Siya si Tonton!" I exclaimed and he burst out laughing with the nickname I made out of
our baby's long and wonderful name.

"Pinag-isipan talaga, huh..." he smirked and I winked at him.

"Oo naman," tawa ko at yumakap sa akin ang asawa ko mula sa likuran at hinaplos ang
tiyan ko.

"Are you okay there, Tonton? Ako 'to, si Daddy Tintin..." he said at napahagikhik ako
nang matawa siya at muling humalik sa balikat ko at hinaplos ang tiyan ko ulit. "We love
you, anak. I promise to work hard for you and Mommy Sha-sha."

We remained quiet for a while, tahimik na humihinga at humahalik si Tintin at ipinikit ko

ang mata ko at dinama ang init ng asawa ko.
"I wanna have a quality time with you, medyo dumami ang project ko lalo ngayon. I can't
reject kasi I need to double time, may baby na tayo, s'yempre double time si Daddy..."
hinaplos niya ang tiyan ko at humalik sa ulo ko kaya napangiti na ako.

"But don't stress yourself much, Tintin. I can provide too, tulungan lang tayo para sa
family natin." I said.

"Of course, pero kailangan ko kumayod para sa pamilya natin, I don't plan just one
child, Ma'am. Gusto ko madami, mga basketball team."

My mouth parted, eksaherada ko siyang hinarap kaya humagalpak na siya ng tawa.

"Gago, ano ako, inahin?!" I hissed and he laughed more, niyakap niya ako at
pinaulanan ng halik.

"Kidding, baby." He laughed. "Pero nakaka-stress, minsan gusto kong maging jumbo
hotdog."

"Huh?"

"Para kaya ko na 'to." He whispered.

I gasped, namula ang mukha ko at napabughalit ng tawa habang humahagalpak naman

siya at yakap ako, umaawas na ang tubig sa tub sa kaharutan naming dalawa.
"Pero 'di mo na kailangan maging jumbo hotdog." I said and his forehead creased.
"Dahil mayroon ka na." Nilubog ko ang kamay at hinawakan 'yon at nakitang nanlaki
ang mata niya at unti-unting namula.

"Hmm, I like this jumbo hotdog more." I grinned, teasing lang sana but then he smirked,
nagitla ako nang hawakan niya ang kamay ko at marahang ginalaw.

"Stroke it, Ma'am." He muttered devilishly and my eyes widen.

"I-I was just kidding..." napalunok pa ako ng marahas.

"Nah," he smirked, halos mapatili ako nang nahila may pindutin siya at mayamaya'y
nag-drain ang nasa tub.

"T-Tin..."

He smirked more, his dark eyes have a glint of naughtiness that my throat dried up.

"Wanna know more how you can help relieve my stress?" he asked and I gulped and
nodded.

"H-how?"

"Let me eat..." he said and moved his face closer to me.

"'Y-yong?" my voice shook.

"Tahong mo." He grinned and I screamed and smacked his head in shock. Mas
humagalpak naman siya at hinila ako sa kandungan niya.

The End

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