Dancing With Fire

by heartlessnostalgia

Lost Island Series #4:

"Let's dance with fire until it burns, letting the ashes of broken hearts scattered
around our broken souls."

Money.

Money is the most important thing in the world for Serafine Veronica Mendez, a
trying hard scam and a wanna-be rich kid.

She believes that if you have the money, you can have everything the world can
offer, wealth, status and a position in the elite circle.

Everything is in place while she's making a living out of fooling other people
until one night when she accidentally witnessed a possible murder situation.

That incident lead him to Engineer Vioxx Ephraim Miranda. The man who taught her
that not all things can be bought by money, including the happiness, life and love.

But what if their different worlds met, what if the world they thought would
collide only crossed paths and was really not meant for each other?

They danced with fire whenever they got the chance, not knowing that the flames
they ignited would burn and hurt them in the end.

Book 4 of Lost Island Series

Cover by: Yui Sandejas

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Dancing With Fire

Lost Island Series #4:

Welcome to the island where the love that was once lost was found again.
Dancing with Fire
"Let's dance with fire until it burns, letting the ashes of broken hearts
scattered around our broken souls."
Money.
Money is the most important thing in the world for Serafine Veronica Mendez, a
trying hard scam and a wanna-be rich kid.
She believes that if you have the money, you can have everything the world can
offer, wealth, status and a position in the elite circle.
Everything is in place while she's making a living out of fooling other people
until one night when she accidentally witnessed a possible murder situation.
That incident lead him to Engineer Vioxx Ephraim Miranda. The man who taught
her that not all things can be bought by money, including the happiness, life and
love.
But what if their different worlds met each other, what if the world they
thought would collide only crossed paths and was really not meant for each other?
They danced with fire whenever they got the chance, not knowing that the flames
they ignited would burn and hurt them in the end.
Book 4 of 5
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 2019
©heartlessnostalgia (Chennie Ann Cerro)

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Simula

Simula
"The fire that warm us can also consume us, it is not the fault of the fire." I
read the quote I've seen on the vandal outside the bar.
It was a quote from Swami Vivekanda.
Ngumuso ako habang pinagmamasdan iyon at hinawi ang aking buhok.
Why would you dance with the fire if you know you'll just get burned in the
end?
I won't be that foolish.
"Serafine! Come back here! Let's party!" I heard Jesusa screaming while waving
her hand at me.
I smiled and nodded, iniwan ko ng tingin ang vandal na nakita sa pader at
inayos ang suot kong damit.
I made my way back to the bar, nang makapasok ay kaagad akong inabot ni Jesusa
at nagitla ako nang makita si Gino na nagtungo palapit sa akin.
"Hi, G!" I grinned when I saw him.
The handsome man smirked, inilahad ang kanyang kamay kaya tumakbo ako sa kanya
at yumakap.
"I missed you!" I exclaimed.
He chuckled, niyakap ako at humalik sa noo ko bago sumulyap.
"How are you? You're getting more beautiful, hmm?" He commented, staring at me
while I smirked and twirl infront of him.
"I know right," I laughed. "How's States?"
"Still great," He chuckled. "Still States, you?"
"Maganda pa rin." Tawa ko. "Anyway, may pasalubong ba ako?" I raised my brow.
"Of course," He laughed.
"What is it, then?" I laughed.
"How much do you want, then?"
"Kahit ilan, I'll gladly accept it." I winked. He chuckled.
"Alright, I know you won't accept gifts if it isn't money so...can we dance?"
Inilahad n'ya sa akin ang dancefloor at walang pagdadalawang-isip kong tinanggap
ang kamay n'ya at nagpahila sa kanya sa patungo sa dancefloor.
We dance to the wild song in the middle of the messy club. Hawak ko ang balikat
ni Gino habang hawak n'ya ang baywang ko.
I was smiling seductively at him, nakita ko rin ang mga kaibigan kong sumasayaw
sa hindi kalayuan at tumatalon.
I chuckled and winked at them, mas humapit sa baywang ko si Gino at sumulyap
ako sa kanya at natawa.
"Missed me so much, huh?" He looked at me.
"Yeah," He smiled. "So much,"
The night was young yet it was tiring, sama-sama ang barkada patungo sa
sasakyan ni Gino para ihatid kami pauwi.
 He treated us this tonight for his comeback, naupo ako sa kanyang tabi sa
sasakyan at nagkakagulo na ang mga kaibigan sa likuran.
"Sera! When are you going to let us go to your school?" Jenny called my
attention.
I froze but then smiled and looked at her.
"Soon, Jen." I chuckled. "Busy pa roon e,"
"Kahit intrams lang," Aniya.
"Yeah, soon." I said. "Kakaibiganin ko ang guard para makapasok tayong lahat."
She showed me thumbs up, ngumisi naman ako at muling bumaling na sa harapan.
A soft song played on our way home, nakatitig lamang ako sa bintana ng sasakyan
at tahimik na pinagmamasdan ang daan.
It was a quiet, peaceful night for me. I tapped my fingers softly on the window
and closed my eyes.

"Are you free tomorrow night?" Nagmulat ako at napasulyap

kay Gino sa tabi ko.
"Bukas?" Napaisip ako pero nang may maalala ay umiling ako at ngumiti.
"I'll be very busy, G. Maybe next time?" I said.
He nodded, nakita kong muling bumaling sa daan at sumulyap ako kay kamay ko at
tahimik na pinaglaruan ang daliri ko.
As long as I want to join and have fun with them tomorrow, I can't. I have a
lot of things to do.
"Dito nalang ako," I said when I saw a familiar village nearby.
"Ipapasok ko nalang sa loob--"
"No!" I exclaimed. He stopped, nakita kong nagtataka rin ang mga kaibigan ko sa
likuran pero umiling lang ako at hilaw na ngumisi.
"I mean...the guards are strict. Kaya ko naman pumasok mag-isa." I said.
"Pwede mo namang sabihing magpapahatid ka muna, 'no? I mean, we arw dying to
see your house! I wish we could have a girls night out there sometime?" Jesusa
exclaimed kaya ngumisi ako.
"Sure...nirerenovate lang kasi ang bahay, I mean ang mansion." I cleared my
throat. "Nilalagyan ng indoor pool kaya alam n'yo na."
"Woah!" Jenny exclaimed. "We are excited, Sera! After that, let's go and have a
night out, okay?"
"Sure...sure!" Tawa ko at nagthumbs-up.
"Dito nalang ako," I said and waved at them. They waved back at me, ang mga
lalaki sa likod ay kumaway rin sa akin at nang bumaling ako kay Gino ay nakita kong
seryoso na s'ya.
"I can try taking you in, kakausapin ko nalang ang guard." He said.
"No," I shook my head. "Ayos lang, tsaka kaunting lakad lang at naroon na ako."
He looks hesistant for a while but then, leaned in to kiss my cheek and opened
the door for me.
I hugged him a bit, habang nakatanaw sila sa akin ay nagtungo ako sa guard
house ng village ng mga rich kid at ngumisi sa guard.
"Hi, Kuya!" I waved at the guard.
Napakamot ito ng ulo at napailing sa akin.
"Ano nanaman, Ma'am? E, wala ka namang bahay rito?" Aniya ulit kaya tumawa ako
at pinalo s'ya.
"Ano ba, Kuya! Makisakay ka muna." I said and laugh awkardly.
He shook his head, natatawa nanaman sa akin at umiling.
"Bye, Sera!" Jenny waved on the window. "Ingat!"
"Bye!" Lingon ko at kumaway. I saw Gino nodded at me at nang mawala sila ay
napahinga na ako ng malalim at ngumisi kay Kuya.
"Thanks ulit, Kuya Guard." I said and tapped his shoulder.
"Naku, Ma'am. Bumili ka nalang kasi ng bahay rito." Aniya. "Para naman totoo
nang dito ka nakatira."
"Sus, hindi ko afford." Tawa ko. "Mahal d'yan, pang rich kid."
 "E, mukha ka namang mayaman, Ma'am?" Sumulyap s'ya sa akin.
"Maganda lang ako at magaling manamit pero zero balance." I chuckled kaya
natawa na rin s'ya roon.
"Sige, Ma'am, saan po ba kayo ulit? Tatawag ako ng traysikel ulit."
"Uh, doon lang ulit, Kuya, sa may kabilang kanto." I said.
Nanatili akong nakatayo roon sa gilid habang nagtatawag ang BFF kong security
guard ng village na ito at nang may makuha s'ya ay tinawag n'ya ako.

"Ito, Ma'am, traysikel!" Aniya kaya nagtungo ako sa

traysikel na sinasabi n'ya.
I walked towards it and glance at the driver at halos matigalgal ako nang
makita ang itsura na.
He has these green blazing eyes! Hapit pa ang shirt sa katawan kaya halos
magwala ako sa kilig!
"Sakay na, Ma'am." Aniya.
I almost fell with his accent, nagpapanic pa ako nang pumasok at hindi na
nakapagpaalam sa BFF ko at sumakay sa traysikel.
Oh my God! Possible ba 'yun? Ang gwapo n'ya!
Halos magwala na ako sa loob ng traysikel habang umaandar pero bigla akong
natigilan nang may matanto.
Pwede sana sa face kaso, nah, hindi ko dream man in terms of money. Dapat
praktikal, doon tayo sa MMM or Matandang Madaling Mamatay para sa akin na ang buong
hacienda.
Pretty face kaso waley money siguro, sayang!
Dumating kami sa kanto at nang lumabas pa ako roon ay ngiting-ngiti ako. I saw
the driver stared at me for a while kaya ngumiti ako ng malambing.
"H-Hi, thank you!" I said. "Ang gwapo mo naman, dapat nagmodel ka."
He chuckled a bit, his husky voice filled the air kaya halos magwala na ako sa
kilig.
"Not into modelling, Miss."
"And you're speaking english! Bakit ka driver?" I asked but he just smirked and
brushed his hair.
"May bubuhayin akong pamilya e," He said with a bit of amusement. "Kailangan
magtrabaho, Miss."
"Oh?" May family na? Sayang!
"Ganun ba, sayang, pwede ka mag-model e." I said and smiled. Binuksan ko ang
pouch ko at kumuha ng bente bago inabot sa kanya.
He took it, akmang susuklian pa ako pero umiling ako at ngumisi.
"Hindi, keep the change. Panggatas na rin ng anak mo." I said.
His lips lifted in amusement, bigla s'yang nangiti at tumango, sumaludo sa akin
at kumaway.
"Thanks, Miss! Pang-mik-mik na rin 'to." Tuwang-tuwang sabi n'ya at naguguluhan
man ay tumango ako at kumaway.
When he left, I resumed walking into a small space towards our small community.
Pagpasok ko palang sa siwang na iyon ay halos mapatalon na ako sa nagtatakbuhang
bata sa kalsada.
"Hi, Ate Serang ganda!" My favorite kid, Biboy, waved at me.
"Hi, boy!" Tawa ko at kumaway. "Uwi na kayo, gabi na."
"Maya na, Te! Nagwawala pa si Tatay sa bahay." Aniya at tumango lang ako at
ngumiti.
"Sige, mag-ingat ka, huh?"
"Opo!" Bibong sabi n'ya.
Habang naglalakad ako ay nangiwi ako nang makitang nag-iihaw nanaman sa gilid
si Aling Kipay kaya napailing ako.
Mag-aamoy BBQ nanaman ang damit ko! Kailangan ko nanaman atang bumili ng downy
passion sa tindahan para amoy pang RK nanaman ang damit ko!
"Hoy, Sera! Ang utang mo?" Napapikit ako nang mapansin ako ni Aling Kipay kaya
ngumisi ako at dahan-dahang umatras.
"Bukas pa ang sweldo ko, Aling Keps!" I said.
Ngumiwi s'ya at namaywang, sa suot na duster ay kitang-kita ko ang hubog ng
malusog n'yang katawan. She eyed me sharply, mas lalo pa akong nangilabot sa
curlers n'ya sa ulo.
"Aba-aba! Ilang linggo na ito, huh? Bayad mo?" Pagalit n'ya sa akin.
"Bukas na, Aling Keps." Lambing ko pa. "May sweldo ako bukas, bayaran ko,
promise."

"Naku, Sera! Ilang linggo na, huh? Sosyal-sosyal n'yang

ayos mo wala ka namang pambayad utang!"
"Syempre, para magkapera, idaan natin 'yan sa alindog!" Asar ko pa pero
kinakabahan na talaga ako sa curlers n'ya.
Baka kapag natanggal iyon ay maging kulot tapos magtatransform to ahas.
Balentina na si Aling Kipay!
"Oh, s'ya, sige! Bilisan mo na at lumayas ka! Malas 'to sa negosyo o!" Sikmat
pa n'ya pero tumawa pa ako at kumendeng roon para mang-asar.
Habang lumalayo ng bahagya ay nauubos na ang mga tao, medyo dumidilim na rin
ang lugar dahil sa naglalakihang mga puno kaya binilisan ko ang lakad.
I was looking directly into the road when I saw something weird. Sa paglingon
ko ay natigilan ako nang makita ang isang lalaking nakaitim at nakatakip ang mukha.
May isang van sa gilid na kulay puti rin at mukhang walang tao nang sipatin ko.
My forehead creased. Bahagya akong umatras para magtago at kitang-kita kong may
hila-hila s'yang isang kulang itim na malaking bag.
Dinala n'ya iyon sa lilim ng gubat at kumalabog ang puso ko.
Ano 'yun? Basura? May nangungolekta naman ng gabi a? Bakit roon sa lilim
itatapon?
Kinabahan ako, dahan-dahang hinawakan ang pouch ko at kumaripas ng takbo
paalis.
O, paano naman kung multo 'yun? Tapos minumulto na pala ako?
I was panicking until I saw the road getting a bit brighter because of lights.
Nawala ang kaba ko nang makita ang kaibigan ko na nakapaywang sa akin.
"Kikay! Ang kaibigan kong anak ni Aling Kipay!" I exclaimed when I saw her.
She snorted, naiiling na sinalubong ako at umiling.
"Saan ka nanaman kumalantari, Sera?" Aniya kaya natawa ako sa kanya.
"Wala, nag-ikot lang. Day-off kasi, bukas babalik nanaman ako sa bar, may
trabaho ako bukas."
"Asus," Aniya. "Kumain ka na ba? May barbeque si Mameh roon sa loob, baka gusto
mo kumain?"
"Hindi na," I said. "Pabili nalang ako ng gulay tsaka ng downy passion."
"Oh?" Aniya at pumasok sa tindahan. "Sige, lista ko ba?"
"Hindi na," I laughed. "May kalembang ako today." Naglabas ako ng fifty at
iniabot sa kanya.
"Yaman a, madatung ba ang nakalembang natin d'yan?" Asar pa n'ya kaya natawa
lang ako at umiling.
"Salamat, Kay." I said. Itinago ko sa bag ang downy habang bitbit ang ulam para
kina Tatay at Miggy.
Saglit kaming nagkwentuhan ng kaibigan ko pero nang tawagin s'ya ng Tatay n'ya
ay nagpaalam na rin ako paalis.
I walked towards our simple nipa house, ang aking mansyon na may sapa sa gilid
at natawa ako bigla sa naisip.
Hindi pa ako nakakapasok ng bahay ay kaagad akong sinalubong ng yakap ng bunso
kong kapatid.
"Ate! Hello!"
"Hello, Miggy!" I brushed his hair and smiled. "May dalang gulay si Ate, tara,
kain."
He nodded slowly, masayang inabot sa akin ang gulay at nagtatatakbo sa kusina.
 Ako nama'y nanatiling nakatayo roon sa sala at inilibot ang tingin.
"Si Tatay, Migs?"
"Umalis po, Ate! Trabaho daw po!" She exclaimed kaya tumango ako at ngumuso.
"Ayos na ba ang jeep ni Tatay? Nakabyahe na?"
"Opo ata, Ate." Ani Miggy.
Pumasok ako sa kusina para tulungan ang kapatid ko, habang nag-aayos s'ya ng
mga plato ay inayos ko ang ulam.

The door of the house made a sound, napatingin ako roon at

tumayo nang makita ang Tatay. I smiled, babatiin sana s'ya nang makitang marumi
s'ya at may dugo ang braso.
"Tay?!" My eyes widen. Mabilis akong tumakbo palapit sa kanya at tinitigan ang
kamay n'ya.
"Anong nangyari? Bakit ka may sugat?!" I exclaimed.
He sighed, akmang hahawakan ko ang braso n'ya ay lumayo s'ya ng bahagya at
umiling.
"Hindi, anak. Galos lang, inaayos ko kasi ang jeep pero tumama ang braso ko sa
makina." Aniya.
"Malaki ba ang sugat?" I asked him worriedly pero umiling lang s'ya.
"Hindi, anak. Sige na, aayusin ko lang itong sugat ko. Pakainin mo na rin ang
kapatid mo at baka umuwi ang Nanay mo't magalit." Aniya.
Muli akong bumalik sa kapatid ko at ngumiti nang mapansing nagtataka s'ya sa
itsura ni Tatay.
"Natamaan lang si Tatay ng makita sa jeep." I said and he calmed down, naupo
s'ya sa tabi ko kaya ngumiti ako at humalik sa noo n'ya.
"May assignment ka, Miggy? Sagutin natin, huh?" Alo ko sa kapatid.
Miggy slept beside me that night, sa maliit na kwarto at papag ay sinigurado
kong kumportable ang kapatid ko. Kahit na naghihirap at masakit sa likod ang papag
ay hindi ako nagreklamo at hinayaan ang kapatid kong mahiga sa mga unan.
Sa kabilang kwarto ay rinig ko ang pagtatalo ng Nanay at Tatay pero dahil sanay
na ay nakatulog akong payapa at yakap si Miggy.
Nagising ako kinabukasan sa alingawngaw ng sirena ng pulis. Sa pagmulat ko ay
hindi ko naabutan si Miggy sa tabi kaya tumayo ako.
I yawned, mabilis na nag-ayos bago nagsuklay ng buhok at lumabas ng kwarto.
Walang tao sa sala kaya dumiretso ko palabas at bahay at nagtaka nang mapansing
nagkakagulo roon.
My forehead creased, nakita ko ang kapatid kong nakikiusyoso rin kaya naglakad
ako palapit at hinawakan s'ya.
"Miggy, bakit hindi ka nagsasabihing lalabas ka--"
"Ate, may patay!" Natigilan ako at unti-unting nag-angat ng tingin at halos
manlamig nang makita ang isang mahabang bag na kulay itim. Bitbit iyon ng pulis
palapit sa isang sasakyan ng ambulansya mula sa gubat.
My heart raced, nakita kong kanya-kanyang kuha ng litrato ang mga kapitbahay
pero nanatili akong nakatitig roon.
It's the bag I saw last night! Does that mean...it was a person? Did...I just
witnessed a possible murder?
"Engineer, Miss Akisha was last seen in a bar. Doon s'ya kahapon naglagi sa may
sikat na bar sa bayan. Nagsasaya." Nawala ang atensyon ko sa mga may hawak ng body
bag at lumipat sa narinig na boses.
My heart raced suddenly when I saw a police talking to a man with a sharp,
brown eyes. He was tall, definitely six and two or more inches. He was lean, hapit
ang kanyang katawan sa suot na itim na longsleeve at kulay tsokolateng slacks at
leather shoes.
His hair was fixed formally on his head, ang matangos na ilong ay tila nililok
ng isang magaling na skulptor. His red lips where in a grim line, the stubborn jaw
of his made him look manlier.
"Her driver?" His voice almost made me stopped breathing.
 "Pinauwi raw po ni Miss," Sagot ng pulis.
"Sera!" Nawala ang atensyon ko sa kanila nang hinahin ni Kikay ang kamay ko.
"H-Huh?"
"Grabe, ano? Nakita raw 'yung bangkay sa may gubat. Kahapon pa raw nawawala
'yung babaeng 'yun, pinatay ata." Aniya.
I felt goosebumps, kumalabog ang puso ko at nabalot ng takot.
"Kita mo 'yung gwapo roon?" Turo n'ya sa lalaking gwapong tinititigan ko
kanina. "Sabi nila fianceé daw n'yan 'yung babae kaso biglang nawala 'yung babae,
hinanap at natagpuang patay sa may gubat."
"T-Talaga?" Muling sumulyap ako sa lalaki na sa pagkakataong ito ay nakatitig
sa akin kaya kinabahan ako nang hindi ko maintindihan at nag-iwas ng tingin.
"At ito pa ang pasabog! Nalaman ko na may reward ang kung sino mang makakaalam
or nakakita manlang sa nangyari! Kahit anong clue okay lang, basta may masabing
impormasyon!"
"M-Magkano?" I asked and she pouted and spoke. "Five hundred thousand! Kaloka,
sana nakita ko manlang!"
My mouth parted, muli akong sumulyap sa mga pulis roon na nag-uusap, sa body
bag na nasa lapag, kitang-kita ko ang bakas ng dugo roon.
Muli akong sumulyap sa pwesto ng lalaki kanina at nakita ko ang titig n'ya sa
akin. Halos magwala ang puso ko roon.
I feel weird and intimidated with that sight of him, nakita kong nagsasalita
ang nasa harapan n'yang pulis pero nakahalukipkip lang s'ya at sa akin ang tingin.
He has this pair of sharp eyes and soft face, mukhang seryoso at marahas.
"F-Five hundred thousand?" I said and stared a bit at Kikay.
"Oo! Sinabi na kanina kaya nagkakagulo ang mga tao. Ikaw, huh, baka may alam
ka, share ka naman." Biro pa n'ya pero hindi ko magawang tumawa at nanatiling
seryoso.
Muli akong sumulyap sa lalaki na mula sa akin ay bumaling ng tingin sa orasan
n'ya.
Nang maipasok na ang bangkay sa loob ng sasakyan at umalis ay unti-unting
nawala na ang mga tao.
"Pasok ka muna sa bahay, Miggy." I said. Tumakbo si Migs papasok, nang umalis
na rin si Kikay dahil sa tawag ng Nanay n'ya ay bumaling ako sa mga pulis na
nagpapaalam sa lalaki.
"Una na kami, Engineer. Salamat, balitaan ka namin kapag may lead."
"Okay, thank you." He said in a baritone, commanding voice at magalang na
tumango ang mga pulis at umalis.
The man and my eyes met again, malamig ang mata nitong nag-iwas ng tingin at
akmang aalis pero mabilis akong maglakad papalapit.
"W-Wait, excuse me!" I exclaimed kaya natigil s'ya.
Hindi s'ya humarap kaagad, tumigil pa saglit pero nang magtungo ako sa mismong
likuran n'ya ay unti-unti s'yang humarap.
"Yes?" I almost fell when his deep chocolate brown eyes stared at me. His
baritone voice made my stomach crumple.
"About the reward," I said.
His brow raised a bit, nakita ko kung paano naging interesado sa sasabihin ko.
"You have information?" He asked.
"Uhm," I cleared my throat. "It's a half-million, right?"
"Yes," Aniya, taka pa rin ang tingin.
"I have an information," I said at nakita kong napaayos s'ya ng tayo.
"What? Did you saw something?" Aniya at kinagat ko ang labi at bahagyang
tumanyo.
"Yes but I have a condition," I said bravely.
"What?" He asked, namulsa pa at tumitig sa akin.
"One million in exchange of the info." I said.
Mukhang nagulat s'ya, tumitig sa akin at nag-isip kaya nagsalita ako.
"But it's your decision, okay lang naman sa akin kung ayaw mo." Ngumuso ako.
"Deal." His said non-chalantly.
Umawang ang labi ko at inilahad n'ya ang kamay sa akin. Tumitig ako roon at
nakita kong seryosong inaantay n'ya ang kamay ko kaya iniangat ko at sinalubong ang
kamay n'ya.
His rough, strong hands touched mine, kumalabog ang puso ko at tumitig sa mga
mata n'ya.
"Deal." I said.

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Kabanata 1

Hindi ko lang natiis huhu! Enjoy😂

xxx
Kabanata 1
Money. Kung may pinakaimportanteng bagay man na mayroon sa mundong ito, 'yun ay
ang pera.
They keep on saying money can't buy you happiness but it can, in my own way.
That's what keeps me moving, what keeps me motivating.
Sa panahon kasi ngayon, ang mga tao, hindi na bumabase sa kung ano ka, bumabase
sila kung anong mayroon ka. If you have the money, and the status, you can have
what you want. Anywhere, anytime.
His dark brown eyes stared intently at me, his calloused, rough hand felt so
firm and warm against mine.
I noticed how he looked so playful yet serious all this time, his furrowed
brows, his thinned lips and stubborn jaw.
There is something in his eyes that keeps me looking at him, ni hindi ko na
napansing magkahawak pa rin ang aming kamay roon matapos ang shakehands.
"Miss?" His baritone, cold voice called.
I froze, mabilis na napabitaw sa kanyang kamay at napaayos ng tayo.
I glanced at him and licked my lower lip.
"Uh, I haven't introduced myself to you." I said, clearing my throat and
standing firmly.
"You can call me Sera," I said softly.
He stared at me, his eyes seems too serious but enough to make me feel uneasy
and nervous.
Hindi s'ya nagsalita at tumango lang, he stood and put his hand on his pocket
and I immediately cleared my throat and asked him.
"You? What should I call you?" I asked curiously.
He stared again briefly and cocked his head.
"Ephraim," He said huskily.
Oh...that was a hot name.
I nodded, biting my lip and suddenly remembered how I look right now! Hindi pa
ako naliligo!
I began panicking, sumulyap ako sa sarili ko at napapikit ng mariin nang
makitang nakashirt lang ako at shorts!
"Engineer, handa na po ang sasakyan." Napabaling kami sa lalaking nakaputing
uniporme roon.
I saw the man stared at me briefly before looking at his boss.
"Mauna ka na, I will drive the car." He said coldly.
"Sigurado po kayo? Tumawag rin po si Ma'am Emilia at may gaganapin daw pong
presscon sa nangyari."
"Susunod ako," He said and the driver nodded, muling sumulyap sa akin na
nagtataka bago yumukod at umalis.
I bit my lip, I silently stared at him and blinked when he looked at me again.
"U-Uh, kung gusto mo pumasok ka muna..." I said, mentioning our house.
He slightly nodded and put his hands on his pocket, tumalikod naman ako para
makapasok sa bahay pero kinakabahan na ako roon.
Good this is that, my parents are gone. Kaagad kong nakita si Miggy na nanunuod
ng TV kaya tumikhim ako para tawagin ang kanyang atensyon.
He took a glance at us, ang maamong mata ay bahagyang tumulis nang makitang may
kasama akong lalaki.
"Migs, si engineer..." I said softly, nang sumulyap ako sa lalaking katabi ko
ay nakita kong binasa n'ya ang labi at nakatingin lang sa akin.
"Uh, si Migs, kapatid ko." I said.
Nakita ko ang pagtayo ng kapatid ko mula sa sofa papunta sa tabi ko, kita ko
ang taka at hiya sa kanyang mukha habang nakatingin sa matangkad at tahimik na
lalaki sa tabi ko.

"Hello po, engineer." He said softly and offered his hand.

Nagulat ako pero napangiti, I saw the man accepted his hand, a small smile left
his lips.
"Just call me Kuya." Aniya.
Napakurap-kurap ako roon, nakita ko ang pagngiti ng tuluyan ni Migs kay
Ephraim.
"Sige po, k-kuya. Uh, upo po muna kayo!" Biglang masayang sabi ng kapatid ko at
hinawakan sa pulsuhan ang lalaki.
Gulat rin akong magaan ang loob ng kapatid ko sa kanya at nakita ko ang
pagtango roon ni Ephraim.
"Excuse me, mag-aayos lang ako ng sarili sandali." I said.
He brown eyes stared at me, nakita ko ang pagngisi ng kapatid ko at ang
pagbaling n'ya sa engineer na gwapo.
"Kuya, sandali lang si ate, kailangan n'ya munang maligo at nahihiya kasi
mabantot na s'ya." Migs smirked.
My mouth parted, nakita ko ang pagpigil ng ngisi ng lalaki roon sa sinabi ng
kapatid ko.
"Aba't..." Tutol ko pa sana pero nang napatawa na ng bahagya ang lalaki ay
natulala rin ako.
"M-Mabango ako 'no!" Depensa ko sa sarili at ngumuso.
The man looked so small on our sofa. Ang tangkad-tangkad kasi at paniguradong
masarap!
"Sige na, ate, h'wag mo na pag-antayin si Kuya." Migs chuckled and I just
sighed, rolled my eyes and almost ran towards the bathroom to clean myself.
Hindi ko alam kung gaano ako kabilis napaligo para lang hindi mainip ang
bisita. I wore a simple floral dress and slippers, sinuklay ko rin ang basang buhok
at naglagay ng kaunting tint para mukhang presentable.
Habang nasa nag-aayos ay hindi mawala sa isipan ko kung gaano ka-gwapo ang
lalaking iyon sa labas.
He looks playful and serious at some times! Marami akong kaibigang mayaman at
gwapo pero parang mas angat ang isang 'to?
And no...hindi ka pwedeng malito, Sera! Mas isipin mo ang pera.
Isang milyon! Saan ka kukuha ng ganun? Para lang sa napakaliit na detalye sa
murder?
Pero ang sabi ay fianceè n'ya iyon...kaya siguro ganun kalaki?
I slowly went to the living room our small house and saw Miggy talking to him
casually, like they're friends.
I saw the man nodding and saying something too.
"Naku, kuya, mabait iyong ate ko! Medyo maarte nga lang pero palagi akong
inaalagaan 'nun! Mayaman na rin siguro kami kung hindi lang tumigil sa pag-aaral si
ate! Pangarap n'ya rin mag-engineer!"
I cleared my throat, napatigil sa pagsasalita ang kapatid ko at napalingon sa
akin.
I raised my brow at him and he suddenly pouted, nagmartsa s'ya palapit sa akin
at tumingala.
"Wala akong sinabi, ate." Palusot pa n'ya.
I chuckled a bit, running my fingers on his hair.
 "Oo nalang, Miggy." Natawa ako. "Oh, s'ya at mag-uusap muna kami nitong si
Engineer. Maligo ka muna roon at may pasok ka mamayang hapon!"
He nodded, tumakbo roon sa lalaki saglit para magpaalam.
"Kuya, maliligo lang ako, ha! Kausapin mo muna 'yung ate kong maganda!" Ani
Migs kaya nag-init ang pisngi ko sa hiya.
"Miguelito!" I called his full name and he smiled at me.
"Alright, I will talk to your...beautiful sister." His eyes linger on me and I
gulped and stood straight.

Bago ko pa man makurot ang kapatid ko ay nagtatatakbo na

s'ya sa banyo, napailing ako at conscious pa habang naglalakad patungo sa sofa kung
nasaan ang lalaki.
He looks downright handsome and utterly just beautiful. His dark brown eyes
shined a bit when the sunrays outside touched his marvelous face.
Napadaan ako sa salamin kaya napasulyap ako sa sarili roon at hindi maiwasang
mamangha sa sarili.
Shit, ang ganda ko talaga sa umaga!
Napapangisi na ako roon pero natauhan nang marinig muli ang tikhim ng lalaki.
Nagmamadaling lumapit ako at tumayo sa harapan n'ya.
"Uh, ano...good morning!" I said nervously.
He lifted his head to see me and his lazy eyes made my knees wobble. His lip
twitched, kita ko ang pagsulyap sa katawan ko bago umiwas at tumikhim.
"You should sit," Malamig n'yang sabi at umigting ang panga.
"Oh!" Mabilis akong naupo sa sofa kaharap ng one-seater sofa na inuupuan n'ya.
Nang magkaharap kami ay nakita kong nakatingin na s'ya at tila inaantay akong
maging komportable sa ginagawa.
"Uh, so...ayun nga." I started. "Isang milyon kapalit ng impormasyon?"
Nakita ko ang unti-unting pagseryoso ng kanyang mukha. He suddenly looked like
a businessman ready to close a deal and I somehow got intimidated by that.
"What kind of information can you provide?" He asked me formally.
Pero hindi ako dapat papatalo! Kung pang business pala edi ganun!
Umayos rin ako ng upo, my chest out with my chin up. I saw him suddenly stared
at my chest and I smirked at that.
Men!
"I kinda saw something last night." I said.
He looked at my eyes again, halos matawa nanaman dahil pinagnanasaan n'ya ata
ang tender loving care skin ko! Aba, hindi man ako mayaman para maligo sa gatas,
sagana naman ako sa baby oil at hilod! Kaya maganda ang balat ko from outside and
within!
"What is it?" He asked, curious now.
I smirked and shook my head at him.
"I am sorry, engineer but I won't provide that much info until may kasunduan na
tayo." I said.
"I said yes to your negotiation, Miss." Aniya.
"I want a written contract!" I demanded. "It's money we are talking about right
now, hindi ako basta magpapadalos-dalos."
He eyed me seriously, nagkatitigan kaming dalawa, naglalaban ng titig pero sa
huli ay ako na rin ang nag-iwas at napailing sa ginawa.
Hindi ko kayang makipagtitigan! Nanghihina ako!
"Fine," He said and I glanced at him, kita ko ang pagtikom ng bibig n'ya at ang
pag-igting ng panga.
"Anong fine?" I raised my brow at him, looking serious now.
"I will invite you to my office to sign a contract and as a witness, I will
provide you tight security for your safety." Aniya.
Umawang ang labi ko, napailing roon at napakurap.
"Y-You don't have to!" I exclaimed. "Just the money is fine with me! Hindi ko
kailangan ng security!"
 "You'll be a witness of this case, Miss." Aniya na mukhang iritado na sa pag-
ayaw ko. "Your safety is my top priority, if anyone found out you know something,
your life might be at risk."

"Masyado bang sikat 'yung fianceè mo para maging ganoon

kalala ang maging epekto?" I asked curiously.
"She's not my fiancè." He said coldly and that stopped me. "She's a family
friend."
"Oh..." I nodded pero parang hindi naniniwala. "Anyway, condolence sa
nangyari." Huminahon na ang boses ko.
He stared at me, kita ko ang pagod sa mata n'ya bago napabuntong-hininga at
napatango sa sinabi ko.
"You need the security wherever you are. You will be the witness and I can't
risk your safety." Aniya.
I slowly nodded, wala nang choice kung hindi ng payagan s'ya.
"Uh...ilan?" I asked curiously.
"Just one," Aniya. "You'll be uncomfortable kung marami."
I bit my lip, nodding.
"Okay..." I said softly.
Muli kaming nagkatitigan, parang nahihilo ata at nahi-hypnotize ako sa tingin
n'ya at kung hindi lang s'ya muling sumandal sa sofa habang nakatitig pa rin ay
hindi ako matatauhan.
I stood immediately, clearing my throat.
"Uh, teka, kain ka muna!" I said.
Hindi s'ya umimik at nang lingunin ko s'ya ay nakita kong kuryoso s'yang
ipinapalibot ang tingin sa aming bahay. He didn't say anything, just silently
observing our home kaya tumalikod na ako at nagmamadaling nagtungo ng kusina.
I opened the refrigerator and smiled when I saw the untouched cake on it!
Galing pa ito sa birthday ng kapitbahay nung nakaraang gabi 'nung naki-birthday
kami 'nung dinner! Hindi pa naman ito sira!
Inilagay ko iyon sa maayos na plato at nagtimpla ng juice bago lumabas roon at
nakitang nagtitipa s'ya sa kanyang telepono, seryoso pa rin.
"Uh...kain." I said and offered him the foods.
He glanced at me softly and nodded a bit.
"Thanks," Aniya at muling nagtipa sa kanyang telepono.
I noticed how elegantly he looks, he's tall, he has hair is sporting a clean
cut, ang kanyang itim na longsleeve ay humulmang lalo sa kanyang katawan.
Parang nakakahiya tuloy na narito s'ya sa maliit naming bahay?
"Uh, pasensya na sa bahay namin." I said softly and I saw him turned his phone
off and looked at me.
"Why?" Aniya at sumulyap sa pagkaing dala ko kaya bigla akong nahiya.
"At...pasensya na rin sa pagkain, wala kasing pagkain sa kusina." I said.
"It's alright," Aniya at halos mamangha pa ako nang kunin n'ya ang cake at
kinain sa harapan ko.
"Baka sumakit ang tyan mo?" I asked and he stopped chewing his food.
"Don't tell me...you out poison in it?" Gulong sabi n'ya pero nanlaki ang mata
ko at napailing.
"No! Of course not!" I exclaimed. "Ano, baka sumama ang tyan mo kasi hindi ka
sanay sa pagkain na ganyan."
"Says who?" He said and raised his brow, napanguso pa ako nang lakihan n'ya ang
bibig n'ya at ipakita sa akin na kinain nga n'ya.
"Kasi diba...mayaman ka?" I said and raised my brow.
He looked at me, humor was visible on his eyes as he shook his head.
"I am not rich, Miss." He chuckled a bit.
"Serafine Veronica," Pakilala ko ulit. "Or...just Sera, you can call me that."
"Sera..." He nodded as he said my name and I don't know but he sounded so hot
saying my name like that!
 "Pero ikaw...Ephraim?" I asked.
"Hmm," He nodded and sipped on the juice.
"Eh, mayaman ka nga? Diba engineer ka? Atsaka 'yung pangalan mo pangmayaman!" I
said at nakita kong napailing s'yang muli.
"No, my parents are." Aniya. "I built my own name to reach what I have now."
"Oh..." I nodded, amazed. Napasulyap ako sa platito na may cake at natigilan
nang naubos n'ya.
"Uh..." I pointed the plate and I saw him glance at it and he bit his lip
shamelessly and stared at me.
"Can...I have another plate?" He said at napakurap ako roon.
"Huh? Pardon?"
"I want another slice of cake," He cleared his throat and looked away shyly.
"Medyo...gutom kasi ako at walang agahan."
"Oh! Sure!" Nagmamadaling kinuha ko ang platito at napatayo, diretso na sana sa
kusina nang marinig ko ang pangalan ko.
"Wait, Sera!" Napatalon pa akp at napalingon at napakurap nang naabutan s'yang
nakataas ang kamay sa ere at ang isang kamay ay mabilis na inuubos ang juice sa
baso.
He licked his lip after drinking the juice in a gulp and offered it to me.
"Pa-refill na rin," Aniya at bigla akong napangiti at kinagat ang labi ko,
natatawa sa kanya.
Aba! Ang patay-gutom rin pala nito!
I went closer to get the glass, nangingiti pa at halos matawa nang mapansing
namumula na ang mukha n'ya.
"O-On the other hand, h'wag nalang pala." Halos mautal na s'ya kakasabi kaya
napatawa na ako roon at umiling.
"Ayos lang, marami pa sa loob!" I said and chuckled.
He nodded, mabilis namang nagtungo sa kusina para kunan s'ya ng pagkain at
muling lumabas at naabutan s'yang kagat ang labi at nakasandal sa sofa.
I can't help but to admire how he looked like a man yet act like a kid at
times.
Nang makita ang dala ko ay napaayos s'ya ng upo at sinilip ang hawak ko.
Nang ilapag ko ang pagkain sa harapan n'ya ay mukha pa s'yang nahihiyamg kunin
iyon kaya napailing ako.
"Eat, come on." I said.
His lips protruded a bit, nag-aalangan pa noong una pero kinuha rin at maganang
kumain roon.
I was smiling silently, nang makitang lumabas si Miggy at tinuro ang kwarto ay
nagpaalam muna ako kay Ephraim bago tumayo at inasikaso ang kapatid ko.
I left him there in his room first to study, sinabi kong ihahatid ko s'ya sa
iskwelahan mamaya. Habang papalabas ay nakita ko ang tupperware na may gamot para
sa sakit ni Miggy at nang i-check ang stocks ay tatlo nalang ang natira kaya
napabuntong-hininga ako.
Guess I have to find other work, huh.
Sa pagbaba ko ay naabutan ko si Ephraim na parang batang nag-aantay sa akin at
tapos nang kumain kaya ngumiti ako.
"Gusto mo pa?" I asked and he immediately shook his head and blinked.
"I'm full...uh, thank you for the food at pasensya."
"Ayos lang, ano ka ba..." Tawa ko roon at inihatid sa lababo ang pinggan.
Saglit naming pinag-usapan ang tungkol sa kontrata at bodyguard at nang may
magtext sa kanya ay nagpaalam na s'yang aalis.
I followed him outside, kahit nasa likuran lang ako ay kitang-kita ko ang
diperensya ng height naming dalawa. He's really tall! Ako ay sakto lang...hindi
matangkad, hindi rin maliit.
 Pero kapag nasa likuran n'ya ako ay para akong duwende!
I saw his car infront of our house, sumunod ako sa kanya para ihatid s'ya roon
pero nakita kong natigilan s'ya at napasulyap sa akin.
"May tindahan rito?" Aniya.
I nodded at him.
"Oo, doon." I pointed the place. He glanced at me and licked his lower lip.
"Can you come with me?" Aniya.
I nodded, smiled at naunang maglakad sa kanya. Habang nasa likuran ko s'ya ay
nakita kong namulsa s'ya at sumunod ng tahimik.
Dumiretso kami sa tindahan nila Aling Kipay at naabutan itong nanunuod ng TV,
wala na ang curlers kaya sabog na ang kulot na buhok!
"Magandang araw, Aling Kipay!" I exclaimed.
Napatalon ang tinawag ko, sumimangot nang makita ako.
"Ano? Mangungutang nanaman?!" She exclaimed when she saw me but I just laughed
awkwardly and stared briefly at the curious, handsome man behind.
"Aling Kipay naman..." Tabingi pa ang labi kong sabi. "Hindi naman...may gusto
lang bilhin itong kasama ko."
I saw her shifted her gaze at the man beside me and I saw how her mouth parted
in shock.
"Uh, eh, hello, hijo..." She said merrily.
Napangiwi ako roon.
"Grabe naman iyang buhok mo, Aling Kipay! Babaeng ahas ang peg? Baka maging
bato ako kapag tinignan mo ha!" Biro ko para hindi n'ya harutin ang gwapong
engineer sa tabi ko.
She almost scoffed, tumalim ang kanyang mata sa akin.
"Aba't! Talagang magiging bato ka kung hindi ka pa magbabayad ng utang!" She
exclaimed.
Back to you, Sera! Ang galing-galing!
"Ano iyon, hijo?" Lambing ni Aling Kipay roon kaya napasulyap ako kay Ephraim
na nasa likuran ko at napasulyap sa akin.
"Ano daw sa'yo?" I said.
He nodded, stared at somewhere then pointed something.
"Uhm, I want a full pack of Mik-mik." Aniya at tinuro ang bibilhin kaya
napaawang ang labi ko, ganoon rin si Aling Kipay.
"Huh?" I asked.
"T-Talaga? Bente isang balot, hijo!" Aniya.
Napanguso ako nang tumango s'ya at dinukot ang wallet sa bulsa.
"One pack, please." Aniya at nagkukumahog na kinuha ni Aling Kipay ang binili
nito.
I was blinking, napatitig rin ako sa wallet n'yang may lilibuhin kaya halos
magliwanag ang mata ko.
"Anong gagawin mo sa mik-mik?" I asked curiously.
"Hmm?" He glanced at me and lifted one thousand and placed it on the store.
"Uh, ako lang ang nakaduty na bibili."
"For?"
"Nothing, magbubugahan lang. Bonding naming magpipinsan." Aniya at halos lumuwa
ang mata ko roon.
"Ay, wala kang barya? Masyadong malaki ito! Bente lang naman!" Ani Aling Kipay
roon at itinaas ang isang libo.
"It's alright, pakisama na rin d'yan 'yung utang ni Sera." Aniya na seryoso
bago inabot ang plastic ng mik-mik at napakurap ako.
"S-Seryoso?" I murmured.
He looked at me and nodded.
Hallelujah!
"Anim na daan lang 'yun! May sukli ka pa!" Ani Aling Kipay na gulat na gulat
rin.
"No, pakitago nalang ng sukli para sa susunod na bibilhin n'ya." Aniya na wala
nang pakialam at binibilang ang straw sa loob ng plastik ng mikmik.
 "Sige...sige!" Gulat ring napapaypay si Aling Kipay ng pamaymay at ako nama'y
napapalunok habang sumusunod kay Ephraim na papunta na sa kanyang sasakyan,
nagbibilang pa rin ng straw.
Nang makuntento s'ya ay ibinaba n'ya ang plastik at sumulyap sa akin, nakagat
ko naman ang labi ko at ngumiti.
"S-Salamat pala." I said softly.
He nodded, running his fingers on his hair and his lip twitched.
"No worries, take care. I'll see you again, may pupuntahan lang ako." Aniya at
napaatras ako nang buksan n'ya ang pintuan ng kanyang sasakyan.
He was about to go inside but then, I remembered something. Kinakabahan man at
nahihiya ay tumikhim ako para tawagin ang kanyang atensyon.
"Uh...engineer!" I called.
He stopped, muling bumaling sa akin na nagtataka.
"Yes?"
"Uh, nakakahiya man pero..." I gulped and crossed my fingers.
"Pwede bang mag-request ng cash advance?" Mabilis kong sabi at inilahad ang
kamay ko.
Kinabahan ako nang makita kong seryoso s'ya roon, akala ko'y hindi na ako
pagbibigyan pero mabilis na kinuha ang wallet sa bulsa bago naglapag ng lilibuhin
sa nakalahad kong kamay.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 2

Kabanata 2
"Mag-la-lie-low ka muna ngayon?" Ma'am Asunta then asked me when I asked to
meet her after my shift.
"Papasok pa rin ako, Ma'am." I answered and smiled. "Kapag po na-aprubahan ang
scholarship na ina-apply ko sa university sa may bayan, baka nga po mag-lie-low
ako."
"Oh," She smiled at me and nodded. "No worries, Sera, alam ko namang matanggal
mo nang gustong ipagpatuloy ang pag-aaral mo."
"Opo, sayang at isang taon nalang at magtatapos na ako. Matagal na sana kaso
may mga priorities pa." I said softly.
"Alright," She smiled at me and tapped my back. "Balitaan mo ako, huh? You are
always welcome here, dalawang taon kang nagtrabaho sa akin kaya ayaw man kita
pakawalan ay mas mahalaga ang pag-aaral mo."
"Hindi pa naman po sigurado, pero kung sakaling matatanggap ay magtatrabaho pa
rin ako. Hindi naman pwedeng wala kasi walang bubuhay sa pamilya ko." I chuckled.
"That's really a good mind set, hija. Gustong-gusto ko talaga ang pagiging
positibo mo at pagiging responsable para sa pamilya mo." Aniya.
I smiled happily at that, the owner of the bar where I work, Miss Asunta Flores
is a great woman.
"Sana po maging sekreto muna natin ang pag-aaral kong muli, ayokong malaman ni
Nanay muna." I said softly.
"Oo naman," She smiled softly at me then slowly stood to hugged me.
Nagulat ako pero sa huli ay napangiti at niyakap s'ya pabalik.
"You were like a daughter to me, Sera." Masuyong bulong n'ya.
"Salamat, Ma'am. Ang laki ng naitulong n'yo sa akin sa pagpapapasok sa akin
dito sa bar, tsaka sa pag-offer sa akin ng trabaho. Nakatulong iyon ng malaki sa
pamilya ko." Bulong ko.
"Walang anuman, it was an honor to help you." She whispered.
I hugged her longer and felt the motherly love she is giving me, Miss Asunta is
one of the kindest and sweetest person I know.
Naalala ko noong nangangailan ako ng trabaho at nakita n'ya ako, she asked for
my resume and when she saw it, walang pagdadalawang-isip n'ya akong pinasok kahit
bilang waitress lang sa kanyang negosyo.
I remembered when she offered me a high position but I just coudn't take it,
una dahil napakalaking responsibilidad 'yun at ayokong magkamali at pangalawa,
dahil nahihiya rin ako sa dami ng tulong na naibigay n'ya.
Nang humiwalay s'ya sa akin ay may kinuha s'yang sobre sa bag at inilagay sa
kamay ko kaya nagitla ako.
I blinked, tinitigan ko ang sobra at umawang ang labi.
"M-Ma'am..." I muttered.
"Please accept it, Sera." She said. "That will be a big help to you, sa
pagpapagamot mo kay Miggy at sa tatay mo."
My tears went at the side of my eyes, I trembled a bit and stared at her and
noticed her concern look.
"M-Ma'am...masyado nang malaki ang naitulong mo." Bulong ko at pilit na inabot
sa kanya pabalik ang sobre pero umiling s'ya sa akin.
"Tanggapin mo na, Sera." Aniya. "Makakatulong 'yan sa'yo. Isa pa, magtatampo
ako kung hindi mo 'yan tatanggapin."
My heart thumped. Napasinghap ako roon at mabilis s'yang niyakap para muling
magpasalamat.
"Study hard, Sera." She whispered. "She will be really proud of what you've
become."
"P-Po?" I glanced at her and saw her shook her head and chuckled.

"N-Nothing, hija. Naalala ko lang ang kapatid ko." She

smiled.
I went to the Pharmacy the moment she gave me help to buy meds for my family,
naubos nanaman kasi kaagad ang gamot ni Miggy at ang gamot ni Tatay ay tinigilan
n'ya kaya nahirapan nanaman s'ya sa paghinga kahapon nang bumyahe s'ya.
I fetched my brother when it's his time to go home, dahil may dekwat ako ngayon
ay nilibre ko ang kapatid ko at namasyal kaming dalawa para matuwa manlang s'ya.
"Ate, gusto kong makipaglaro po kanina sa P.E. namin kaso hindi ko po kaya kasi
mabilis akong mawalan ng hininga." Sabi ng kapatid ko habang magkatabi kami at
kumakain ng paborito n'ya spaghetti at manok.
I sighed, smiling at my brother and caressed his cheek.
"H'wag kang mag-alala, Miggy. May kita si Ate ngayon, tsaka magtutuloy na ako
sa pag-aaral para kapag natapos na ako, magkakatrabaho na ako at mapapa-opera na
kita."
He smiled brightly at me, nang yakapin n'ya ang baywang ko ay nangiti ako at
niyakap s'ya pabalik, hinahagkan ang kanyang ulo.
"Salamat, Ate. Mahal po kita." Bulong n'ya.
"Para sa'yo," I whispered. "Sige na, kain ka pa ng marami! Libre ka rin ni Ate
at magpeperya tayo mamaya!"
He shifted his gaze at me, his eyes widening and I saw it glistened.
"T-Talaga po?"
"Yes," I pinched his nose. "Para magbonding tayo at makapamasyal but of course,
doon lang tayo sa mga simpleng ride, hmm? Hindi pwede sa nakakatakot."
"Sana Ate, gumaling na ako kasi gusto ko rin makaranas 'nung nanunuod ng mga
horror movie kagaya ng mga kaklase ko." He said, licking his ice cream happily.
"Oo naman, h'wag kang mag-alala at papagbutihin ni Ate para makapagtrabaho ako
kaagad."
"Ate, kaibigan mo diba si Kuya Ephraim?" Napalingon ako sa kapatid at nagitla
sa sinabi n'ya.
"H-Huh? Bakit mo naman naitanong?" I blinked.
"Wala po, kasi s'ya 'yung una mong kaibigan na nakapunta sa bahay." Aniya.
"Mabait po ba s'ya, Ate?"
"Uh...oo." I nodded slowly and smiled at him. "Hayaan mo, kapag hindi s'ya busy
iimbitahan ko sa bahay." Sa halip ay sinabi ko nalang sa kapatid ko.
He smiled widely and nodded, nang matapos s'yang kumain ay naglakad kami
papunta sa exit para sana makapunta na sa perya.
My brother, who's sometimes acting like he's already a big boy and walking
infront of me. Kita ko ang pagkamangha sa paligid.
I smiled a bit while looking at him.
Someday, Miggy, I promise you'll be like the normal kids in school.
"You know what? I texted Sera about the party tomorrow but I haven't received
any replies from her!" A familiar voice stopped me from staring at my brother.
I shifted my gaze and instantly froze the moment I saw Gino with Jesusa and
Jenny.
"Maybe she's busy," Jesusa said. "Diba at under renovation ang mansyon nila?"
"Oo, but we have to party. Huling linggo na ng semester na 'to at hindi pa s'ya
nagpapakita ulit." Jenny shook her head.
"I will try calling her again," Ani Gino roon na kinuha ang telepono.
Hindi ako kaagad nakagalaw, lalo na nang biglang tumunog ang phone ko.
"Shit!" I cursed and rejected the call.

"She rejected it," Gino said and I cursed silently, my

hands trembling as I try silencing my phone yet a call from him came up instantly.
Muling nag-ingay ang phone ko na s'yang ikinatingin sa amin ng lahat, I shifted
my gaze at my friends and I saw how Gino's eyes widened when he saw me.
"Sera..." He murmured.
"Saan?" Ani Jesusa pero walang pagdadalawang-isip akong nag-iwas ng tingin at
mabilis na naglakad paalis.
"I saw her!" I heard the panic on Gino's voice, mabilis kong tinakbo ang
distansya namin ni Miggy at tinawag ko ang kanyang pansin.
"Migs! Migs, hurry!'
"Po?"
"Tara! Bilis!" I said, panicking at nagpadala sa hawak ko ang kapatid ko kahit
naguguluhan.
I was nervous, nakihalo ako sa dami ng tao pero alam kong nakasunod sina Gino
dahil nga nakita ako.
Shit! I never knew they'd come here!
Marami nang nagreklamo sa pagkakabangga ko but I care less, mas mahalagang
hindi nila malaman at mabubuko ako!
I froze and my eyes widen when I saw a familiar man sporting on his black
poloshirt and khaki pants, nakangisi ito habang may kausap na mga lalaki, he was
talking to a man with black eyes as they walked around the mall!
"Hala, Ate! Si Kuya Ephraim!" Miggy exclaimed, napasinghap ako sa gulat nang
biglang umalis sa hawak ko ang kapatid ko at tinakbo ang pwesto nito.
"Miggy!" I exclaimed. "Don't!"
Hindi nakinig ang kapatid ko at halos masapo ang mukha nang nasa harapan s'ya
bigla ni Ephraim.
"Hi, Kuya!"
I groaned when he stopped, nakita ko ang pagngiti nito nang makita ang kapatid
ko at kaagad na nagsalita.
"Migs," He called.
Tinakbo ko ang kanilang distansya.
"Migs!" I called.
They all shifted their gaze at me and I froze when our eyes met, his eyes
flickered when he saw me, licking his lower lip as he stared at me.
"Ate! Si Kuya!" My brother exclaimed.
"Nandito s'ya, I swear, I saw her!" Nanginig ako sa kaba nang marinig sa hindi
kalayuan ang boses ng mga kaibigan, hinahanap ako.
I tried looking at them and gasped when they're near me.
Muli akong napasulyap kay Ephraim na seryoso na ngayon at napasulyap kung saan
ako tumingin kanina.
I saw the man with black eyes lingered on me curiously until I desperately
walked towards Ephraim and hold his hand.
"Please...help me!" I murmured.
Kumunot ang noo n'ya, gulong napatingin sa mga kaibigan kong naglilikot ang
paningin sa paligid pabalik sa akin.
'Who are they?" He asked me coldly.
"H-Hide me...please!" I exclaimed.
Mukhang gulo pa s'ya at walang balak roon, mas humigpit ang hawak ko sa kanyang
kamay at kinakabahan na.
"Para saan ba, Miss? I can help." Napasulyap ako sa lalaking kasama n'ya na
nakangiti na sa akin ngayon, kuryoso pa rin ang mata bago sumulyap sa hawak kong
engineer ngayon.
"I can help you, mukhang walang balak 'tong si Viox--"
"Fuck you, Lucian." He suddenly cursed and I gasped when his voice sounded more
sensual than offending!

Lucian laughed, napasinghap ako sa gulat nang biglang

dumausdos ang kamay ni Ephraim sa baywang ko.
"Migs, can you go with him? He's Lucian, my cousin. He'll take care of you for
a while." Aniya.
My brother looked so confuse but then nodded when he noticed how desperate I am
today.
"Sige po, Kuya. Bantayan mo po ang Ate ko, huh?" He smiled.
"I will," He nodded and stared at his cousin who's looking at us playfully.
"Take care of him, let's meet in the parking."
"Alright," Lucian chuckled a bit and stared again at me then shifted his gaze
at his cousin who was busy staring at my searching friends near us.
I caught Lucian smirking, hindi ko alam kung nang-aasar o natutuwa, nakita ko
pang sumulyap s'ya sa kamay ni Ephraim sa baywang ko kaya napatalon rin ako.
I slowly and shyly, removed his hand on my waist but he instantly caught it
again, kita ko ang irita sa mukha n'ya bigla nang magbaba ng tingin sa akin.
"What?" He said coldly.
"Uh...'yung kamay mo." I whispered.
"So?" He fired back and I gasped when Lucian laughed and took my brother with
him.
"Uh..."
"Baka namamalik-mata ka lang, Gino!"
"I swear, I saw Sera here! She's wearing a black shirt and pants!"
I gasped. I heard Ephraim cursed and put his hand more on my waist and slowly
lead me to walked away from them.
"I am positive, Jen."
"Impossible at busy si Sera, diba? I remembered her saying nagpa-process s'ya
ng visa dahil may europe tour s'ya!"
Kunot ang noong nagsalubong ang mata namin ni Ephraim, I bit my lip slowly and
shook my head, clutching his shirt.
"A-Alis na tayo..." I whispered.
Hindi s'ya umimik, ang kamay ay mas pumirmi sa aking baywang at muli kaming
naglakad paalis pero parang natulos ako sa kinatatayuan nang may marinig na boses.
"Engineer Miranda?" I felt him stopped.
Nang marinig ko ang yapak ng mga kaibigan ko palapit sa akin ay napasinghap
ako.
Ephraim immediately covered me, shifting me a bit so I can hide my face on his
chest.
"Oh, it's really you!" I heard Jenny's voice.
I heard Rai's steady breath and thumping heart on his chest, ramdam ko ang
pagprotekta sa kanya habang nagtatago ako roon.
Shit! Mabubuko ako nito!
"Engineer..." Gino's voice made me so nervous.
 "Engineer Rosales," Rai called him back.
"Uh, nandito ka pala?" I heard Jesusa asked.
I know I was too obvious! Ramdam na ramdam ko ang titig nila sa akin habang
nagtatago ako roon sa dibdib ni Rai! Shit! 'Yung damit ko!
"Yeah, just strolling." I heard him answered with his usual cold voice.
"Oh, you have a company!" I heard Jenny again.
Ramdam ko ang diin ng titig sa aking likuran at paniguradong si Gino iyon!
"H'wag mong sabihin...uhm, sabihin mo pinsan mo ako...o kaya kahit ano!" I
whispered quietly at him.
"I'm with my girlfriend," I gasped more loudly when I heard Rai spoke.

"R-Really?" I heard Jesusa's voice.

"What's her name?" I heard Gino asked. "Uh, sorry but she was kinda familiar to
me. Uh, I mean your girlfriend."
"Veronica," Rai answered and I closed my eyes tightly.
That was my second name!
"Oh..." Jenny murmured.
"Nice meeting you but excuse us, my girlfriend's not feeling well."
"Oh! Okay!" Jesusa exclaimed.
Slowly, Rai shifted his position without even letting me see them. Walang
pasubaling inakbayan ako nito at pasimpleng nilayo roon pagkatapos naming lumihis
ng direksyon.
When we got to the parking lot ay halos makahinga ako ng maluwang, I shook my
head and saw my brother with Lucian talking.
Nagtatawanan pa roon sila at nag-apir.
Tahimik kaming nakarating roon ni Ephraim, I noticed how annoyed he looks,
naguilty naman ako at nadamay ko pa s'ya.
"Ihahatid na namin kayo," I heard Lucian said.
I shifted my gaze and saw Rai staring at me, nang magsalubong ang mata namin ay
nag-iwas s'ya at sinuklay ang buhok gamit ang kanyang daliri.
"Hindi na, uh, maraming salamat sa tulong." I said, staring at Lucian who looks
so amused and curious.
"Get in the car, ihahatid namin kayo." Biglang sabi ni Rai kaya napasulyap ako
sa kanya.
I was about to protest but when I saw how serious he is, I nodded.
Pasimple akong sumulyap sa kapatid ko na lumapit kay Rai.
"Hi, Kuya. Salamat po sa pagbantay sa Ate ko!" He said, smiling.
Slowly, I saw Rai smiled, nodding, ginulo nito ang kanyang buhok at nagsalita.
"No worries, pasok ka na sa loob, Migs. Ihahatid namin kayo." My brother
happily entered the car, nang magsalubong ang mata namin ni Rai ay ngumiti ako pero
hindi s'ya ngumiti sa akin pabalik.
I pouted.
He raised his brow when he noticed what I'm doing and Lucian laughed again
while leaning on the side of the car, watching us.
"Just make up already," He suddenly muttered.
"H-Huh?" I gasped.
"Fuck you, Lucian." He hissed and eyed him who was only laughing at us.
"Pumasok ka na," Aniya sa akin.
I just blinked and stared at him.
Tumitig lang rin s'ya sa akin at nang hindi pa tinulak ni Lucian ang pinsan
palapit sa akin ay hindi kami matatauhang dalawa.
"Stop pushing me!" He hissed at his cousin.
"Just kiss! Para kayong tangang nag-iirapan d'yan." Lucian teased.
"H-Hindi kami..." I murmured.
"Oh? Kwento n'yo sa pagong." Hagalpak ng tawa nito.
"Tangina mo, mamaya ka sakin hayop ka." Rai gritted his teeth and slowly took
my arm and opened the car.
 He slowly assisted me to get inside the car and when he closed it, nakita ko
kung paano n'ya sinapok ang ulo ng pinsan na humahagalpak ng tawa roon sa labas
habang inaasar s'ya.
We reached our home safe, kita ko pa ang tinginan ng mga kapit-bahay sa
sasakyan kung nasaan kami at kuryoso pa ang mga ito habang nakasilip.
Rai stopped the engine when we reached our home, nang lumabas si Lucian ay
kaagad ring lumabas sa sasakyan ang kapatid ko at nakipag-usap sa kanya.

Ang gaan ng loob ng kapatid ko sa mga ito samantalang sa

iba ay tahimik s'ya at hindi palasalita.
Rai went out of the car and I prepared my pouch before going out when I heard
the door opened. Gulat akong napatingin sa kanya na pinagbuksan ako.
I didn't say anything, pagkalabas ko palang at naisara n'ya ang pinto ay
naabutan ko na si Migs na hinihila si Lucian palapit sa amin.
Lucian seems amused at my brother, tawanan pa sila roon at napaatras ako ng
bahagya nang kausapin ng kapatid ko ang magpinsan.
Rai smiled and listened to him, maging si Lucian ay nakikinig sa mga sinasabi
ng kapatid ko kaya napasulyap ako sa aking telepono at nakita ang napakaraming text
at tawag ni Gino at ng mga kaibigan ko.
From: Gino
Sera, where are you?
From: Gino
I saw you in the mall, ikaw ba 'yun?
From: Gino
Answer my calls, Sera.
From: Gino
Do you know Engr. Miranda? I think I saw him with you.
I sighed and tapped reply to answer.
To: Gino
Hi, Gino! Sorry for the late reply, pauwi palang ako galing Manila ngayong
gabi, galing kami sa reunion. Sinong Engr. Miranda? Hindi ko s'ya kilala. Let's
party tomorrow night? I miss you all.
I hid my phone and caught Rai staring intently on the phone I kept. He tilted
his head and I saw my brother now talking to Lucian near the gate of our house.
"Uh..." I walked towards him after calling his attention.
He looked at me, leaning on the car and stared silently.
"Thank you," I whispered softly.
Hindi s'ya umimik roon at tahimik lang akong pinagmasdan.
"I was panicking, hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin. Mabuti nalang at nakita
kita." I said.
"Who's that boy?" He asked coldly.
"Uh, my friend?" I said.
"He doesn't look like a friend to me, he was staring at you like he knows you."
"Kasi nga kaibigan ko, syempre kilala ako." I said.
He licked his lower lip, his jaw clenched a bit and sighed hard.
"Hindi ka pumunta sa opisina ko." He suddenly said, stopping me.
"Hindi mo ba ako tatanungin kung bakit ako nagpatulong sa'yo?" I asked,
curious.
"I waited for you there, I cancelled my damn meetings, thinking you'd go
immediately but you didn't." Malamig n'yang sabi.
Parang nanuyo ang lalamunan ko, his eyes made my knees weak, ang seryosong
mukha n'ya ay ang nagpalakas ng kabog ng puso ko dahil sa kaba at hindi
maintindihang dahilan.
"Pero hindi mo ba ako tatanungin kung bakit ako nagpatulong--"
"You will go to my office, you understand?" He said, cutting me off.
"Huh?" Gulat kong sabi.
"Tinaboy mo ang bodyguard na pinadala ko sa'yo. You even did not answer my
emails regarding your visit!" Himutok n'ya.
"Hindi ako nagbukas ng email!" I muttered and pouted. "Tsaka, diba...parang
masyadong flashy ang bodyguard? Hindi kaya mas puntiryahin lang ako kapag nagsalita
na ako?"

"You choose, Serafine, ang bodyguard o ako ang magbabantay

sa'yo?" He said hardly.
My jaw dropped, nakagat ko ang labi ko matapos at kumurap-kurap.
"Rai...pwede namang h'wag na." I said but he tilted his head and clenched his
jaw.
"I have started the investigation with you as the witness, I would never let
you go alone without any guards necessary for your safety."
Mas napanguso ako, lumapit pa at inabot ang braso n'ya.
"Rai, sige na..."
"No," Irap n'ya pero hinayaan ang kamay ko sa kanyang braso.
"Sige na, engineer..." I said.
Marahas s'yang bumaling sa akin, mas iritado na.
"Call me Rai," Aniya at seryoso akong tinitigan.
"Your name Ephraim is a bit mouthy so, I made that." I smiled sheepishly. "Pero
parang mas formal ang engineer--"
"Rai or else ako na mismo ang magbabantay sa'yo." Banta n'ya kaya napangiti na
ako.
"Engineer--" Humalakhak ako nang halos tirisin n'ya ako, napangiwi pa nang
mahuli n'ya ang baywang ko nang akmang aalis ako pinisil ang pisngi ko.
"Rai!" I exclaimed loudly.
"Hindi ako natutuwa sa'yo, Serafine." He hissed.
"Naks naman, Ephraim pa more!" Sabay kaming natigilan nang lumitaw si Lucian na
humihithit na ng mik-mik kasama si Migs roon.
Mabilis kaming napabitaw sa isa't-isa.
I saw Lucian grinned and offered me one but I just smiled and shook my head,
muttering my thanks.
"Let's go, Lucian." Rai groaned and almost punch his cousin's face.
"Sosyal naman ng tawagan, Rai." He giggled like a gay and I just chuckled
habang iritado na si Rai.
"Alam mo ba, Sera, ayaw na ayaw n'ya 'yang Ephraim sa pangalan n'ya pero kapag
ikaw--aray! Tangina nito ni Miranda!" Napatawa ako ng malakas nang sipain ni
Ephraim ang pinsan at biglang sinakal.
I saw Migs chuckling too at the cousins.
"We gotta go," Rai then pushed his cousin towards the driver's seat.
"Goodbye, Migs." He called my brother.
"Bye, Kuya! Bye din po kay Kuya Lucian!" Aniya.
"Bye, Sera! Migs!" Lucian laughed and waved his hand. I said my goodbyes, nang
magsalubong ang mata namin ni Ephraim ay ngumiti ako.
"Bye, engineer..." I waved cutely at him.
I laughed when his face crumpled and rolled his eyes at me.
Suplado!
The next morning, I was bombarded by my friends messages kaya wala na akong
naging dahilan para lumiban sa bar hopping mamayang gabi.
Wearing my deep red dress and pumps, I made my way to the bar, kaagad akong
sinalubong ng mga kaibigan kong tuwang-tuwa nang makita ako.
"Isa pa, naghahallucinate ata si Gino na nakita ka sa mall kahapon kahit na
nasa Manila ka!" Jesusa laughed, teasing Gino who was just shaking his head,
laughing.
Sumulyap ako sa tabi ko at nakitang ginagalaw n'ya ang baso ng alak roon habang
nakalagay ang braso sa likuran ng upuan ko.
"Really?" I shifted my gaze at him and chuckled, kinda nervous.
 "I promise I definitely thought that was you," Gino
murmured.
Natawa ako, ginulo ang kanyang buhok at nagkunwaring tuwang-tuwa.
"Bakit naman ako mapupunta roon?" Tawa ko. "Baka kamukha ko lang?"
Gino shifted his gaze at me, his eyes moving on my face and licked his lip
before nodding.
"Baka nga," He said. "Impossibleng maging kasama ka ni Miranda."
"Sino 'yun?" Kunwari ay wala akong alam.
"Si Engineer! 'Yung tinutukoy naming gwapo! He's really that hot you know,
girls are running towards him, wala pang ginagawa!"
Oh...is that so?
"Hindi lang s'ya, his cousins too! Ewan ko ba d'yan sa kanina at mas gustong
manatili rito kaysa sa Maynila eh, maraming mga pwede roong gawin."
"Ayaw mo 'nun? Edi maraming gwapo rito sa atin, Manila is already full of
bachelors and handsome people! Mas magandang mabiyayaan rin tayo rito sa probinsya
ng magagandang lahi!" Jenny giggled.
I was just silently nodding, wala akong ideya kung sino ba talaga si Engineer
Ephraim Miranda, the only thing I know is that...he's an engineer and currently
investigating a crime involving his ex-fiancèe.
"But you know what? He said he has a girlfriend!" Jenny murmured and I shifted
my gaze at her.
"Oo, Sera, kahapon ay nakasalubong namin! Ang sweet nga at yakap ang girlfriend
n'ya!"
"Isn't it strange?" Gino suddenly asked. "Paanong may girlfriend s'ya...kung
kakamatay palang ng fiancèe n'ya? The investigation is still on-going, right?"
"I bet that was an arranged marriage," Ani Jesusa roon. "Donya Angelita is a
cunning woman, he wanted to always secure his son's future! S'ya ang tagapagmana ng
mga Miranda, diba? Isa pa, baka kaya nakayakap sa girlfriend kahapon ay para itago
sa atin?"
Tahimik lang ako habang nagmamasid sa kanila, nakikinig.
"Pwede," Jenny murmured. "Baka makilala natin at kumalat, maybe he's just
protecting her?"
No! It's me...and he's just hiding me from the three of you!
"Excuse me, Ma'am Sera." Gulat kaming napatingin at nagitla nang makita ang
isang lalaking lumapit sa amin, he's wearing a white uniform and black slacks, sa
kanyang tenga ay may earphone.
"H-Huh? Yes?"
"Oh, sino 'yan?" Ani Jenny roon.
Gulat akong napatayo, lumapit sa pamilyar na lalaking itinaboy ko 'nung
nakaraan!
"Bakit ka nandito?" I whispered.
"Uh, pinadala po ni Engineer, Ma'am. Masyado pong maraming tao rito, nandun ako
sa bahay n'yo kanina pero umalis ka kaya sinundan kita."
I closed my eyes tightly.
"No, umuwi ka muna, pakisabi sa kanya--"
"H'wag daw po akong aalis kahit anong mangyari, kung hindi ka raw po papayag,
s'ya ang magbabantay sa'yo." Aniya.
I groaned silently, stomping my feet.
"That man!" I hissed.
"Sino 'yan?" I heard Gino said and I froze, napaayos ako ng tayo at napasulyap
sa pormal na bodyguard sa tabi ko.
"Uh..." Sumulyap ako sa tabi ko.
"Lando, Ma'am." Aniya sa mababang tinig.
"Uh, guys, si Lando, bodyguard ko." Naiilang kong sabi.
 I saw how their eyes widen, nagitla rin si Gino roon at
napasinghap sina Jesusa at Jen.
"Really?! Wow! You really are super rich, Sera!" She exclaimed.
Natulala ako roon sa gulat sa naisip nila, napasulyap ako sa bodyguard na
seryoso lang at nakatayo sa tabi ko.
"Uh, oo nga eh." I laughed awkardly. "P-Protective masyado si Mommy."
It was super awkward, my bodyguard remained standing just near us, watching me
silently.
Habang nasa dancefloor kami at nagsasayaw ay hindi mawala sa isip ko ang
bodyguard na padala ni Rai.
Paano ko ipapaliwanag kina Tatay ito?
"Oh my God! Guys! Nandito si Engineer!" Kumalabog ang puso ko sa biglaang
singhap ni Jenny.
I shifted my gaze at her, natigil sa pagsayaw at naramdaman ko ang pagpirmi ng
kamay ni Gino sa aking baywang.
"S-Sinong engineer?" I asked.
"Si Vioxx!" Aniya.
I froze again, but then tilted ny head and smiled a bit.
Akala ko ay si Ephraim!
"Let's dance more," Gino noticed my stiffness and I nodded, inilagay ko ang
braso sa kanyang balikat pero hindi na kami muling nakasayaw nang humahagikhik na
hinawakan ni Jesusa ang braso ko at hinila kung saan.
"Sera! Tara, papakilala namin sa'yo si Vioxx! Napakagwapo talaga!"
Napabitaw ako sa naguguluhang si Gino at nagpahila kay Jesusa.
"Jes! I am still dancing with her!" Gino exclaimed.
"Stop being obsessed over Sera! Ipapakita lang namin si Vioxx sa kanya!" Jenny
laughed.
I was confused, hindi na ako nakatanggi nang hilahin ako ng mga kaibigan ko sa
second floor ng bar.
I saw the bodyguard tensed up when they saw my friends dragging me, tahimik
s'yang sumunod sa akin.
Pagkarating namin sa taas ay gulong-gulo ako, my friends are giggling happily,
kita ko ang ibang mga tao roon na may kinakausap sa pabilog na sofa.
"Babati lang tayo, Sera! Vioxx is with his cousins!" Aniya.
I nodded a bit, the loud music is still playing in the background, the playful
lights shined more and the smoke came out from nowhere until I heard the screams
from the wild crowd below.
I smiled a bit, muling napasulyap sa ibang socialite na bumabati sa sikat na
magpipinsan roon.
"Shit, Wave is here!" Parang sinilihan si Jenny na tumitili pero biglang
kumalma at pinaypayan ang sarili.
"Hindi ako makapili kung sino ang gusto ko sa kanilang lima...fuck, ang sasarap
lahat!" Bulong pa ni Jesusa na pinisil pa ako.
It was weird pero natawa lang ako, as if I can reach that kind of level sa
attraction ng mga mayayamang ito.
I flirted with a lot of rich men, probably just about my age. We just dine,
talk and that's it. Dagdag lang sa pilit na pina-sosyal kong buhay.
"Let's dance more," Isang hawak sa baywang ko at nagulat ako sa paglitaw ni
Gino.
"Hmm?" I asked.
He sighed and took my arm.
"Hayaan mo na ang dalawang 'yan, they probably just want to try flirting with
the cousins again. Sa baba nalang tayo at magsayaw." He offered.
Napasulyap ako kay Lando na sumusulyap lang ng tahimik, I saw him staring at
whoever's near us then to me again.
"Ipapakilala nga namin kay Vioxx at sa iba, Gino. Mamaya na 'yan!" Hila sa akin
ni Jesusa kaya humiwalay ako sa kaibigan.
"Sino ba 'yang Vioxx na 'yan?" I suddenly asked them.
"Yung kinukwento naming gwapo! Si Engineer!" Aniya.
 I was confused.
"Uh, mayaman?" I suddenly asked.
"Sobra!" Jenny murmured.
Doon na ako napangiti, I slowly regained my confidence, hinawi ko ang buhok ko
at umayos ng tayo.
Maybe...I should try flirting?
"Hi, I'm Jenny!"
"Jesusa..." My friend said.
Hindi ko kaagad nakita ang kausap nila nang biglang lumitaw sa tabi ko si Gino
at muling hinapit ang baywang ko.
"Kami 'yung nakasalubong mo sa mall kahapon!" I heard Jesusa said.
I froze, walang pagdadalawang-isip na lumingon at 'yun nalang ang panlalaki ng
mata nang makita ang malamig na tingin sa akin ni Rai.
"Uh, Engineer...Vioxx, ito pala 'yung kaibigan namin, si Sera at si Gino...mag-
MU ata itong dalawa." Jenny teased but my eyes are wide.
Gino chuckled.
"Liligawan ko na ba, Jen?" Gino asked.
My body froze when his brown piercing eyes stared at me intently. I saw his jaw
clenched a bit, licking his lower lip.
"R-Rai..." I whispered, stunned.
He smirked, tilting his head before staring coldy at Gino back at me.
"I believe that's my girlfriend," Malamig nitong sabi bago ako iritadong
tignan.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 3

Kabanata 3
"Girlfriend...what?" Gino suddenly asked, confused.
I noticed how he smirked probably was about to answer when I cleared my throat
and looked around.
"Uh...may girlfriend ka dito? Andun ba?" Turo ko kung saan pa.
Jenny and Jesusa looked around too.
"Oh, nandito si Veronica?" Jenny asked, looking around.
Tumiim ang bagang ni Rai habang nakatitig sa akin, I quickly noticed how he
opened his mouth to speak but I showed him my sharp glare and simply shook my head.
I saw Lucian on the couch, sipping on a glass of whisky with three other
handsome boys. He waved cutely when he saw me, I smiled awkwardly a bit and shook
his head.
I saw him said something quietly at kita kong sabay-sabay na nagsilingunan sa
akin 'yung tatlong gwapong kasama n'ya.
"Uhm, nice meeting you!" I said timidly, he raised his brow at me and eyed the
man beside me.
"Sa inyo din!" Dungaw ko sa mga lalaki roon sa couch at bahagyang umatras at
hinila si Gino roon na nagtataka sa asta ko.
"Sige, uuna na kami!" I said happily and stepped back, simply dragging my
friends away from them.
Nag-inarte pa ang dalawang babae pero sinabihan ni Gino kaya kumalma rin at
sumama.
Damn, too much for flirting handsome rich men!
Pagkababa namin ay niyaya kaagad ako magsayaw ni Gino na walang pasubali kong
tinanggihan.
I simply waved my hand at the waiter and took a glass of vodka and sipped it.
"Bakit kasi tayo umalis kaagad, Sera? I wanted to talk to Wave! Papapicture
ako!" Jesusa murmured and shook her head.
"Then go up again," I said. "Ayos lang naman, I just find it kinda awkward to
talk to them...they're kinda intimidating."
"We know pero sayang. Tsaka oo, they are intimidating but of course, may
ibubuga naman tayo! We are rich too! Maybe not to the extent that we can reach
their wealth pero pwede na!"
Kayo lang ang mayaman. Ako? Mayaman ako sa utang.
Hindi ako kaagad umimik.
I thought he's Ephraim Miranda? Why the hell is he called Vioxx?
"Anong buong pangalan 'nun?" I suddenly asked, confused.
Nakita kong natigilan ang mga kaibigan ko, mismong si Gino ay napatitig sa akin
at hinawakan ang braso ko.
"Sino? Si Vioxx? O 'yung mga pinsan n'ya?"
"Yung engineer," I answered.
"Oh, he's Vioxx Ephraim Miranda." Jesusa answered me. "But he is called by his
friends and family by his first name, I read from an interview na ayaw n'yang
patawag sa pangalang pangalan. Though, it's really hot." She chuckled.
"I suddenly imagined him choking me then I will call him Ephraim while
moaning--"
"Uminom ka nga!" Inabot ko sa kanya ang alak sa lamesa kaya natigilan s'ya.
Kumunot ang noo ko.
"Ang pangit 'nung Ephraim, mas ayos ang Vioxx. Kadiri pakinggan." Ngiwi ko at
diretsong ininom ang natitira sa baso ko.
"Anong kadiri? Ang hot nga!" Jenny exclaimed.
Ngumiwi ako at hindi na sumagot, sumandal nang maramdaman ang hilo sa biglaang
pag-inom ng alak.

"Are you alright?" Gino suddenly asked, I shifted my gaze

at him and smiled a bit and nodded.
"Yeah, I was just kinda dizzy." I murmured.
He sighed, cocking his head to see me more.
"Anyway, nadeposit ko na ang pasalubong mo sa bank account mo." Aniya.
A smile slowly crept on my face, I nodded and stared at him.
"Thanks," I said softly.
Nang titigan ako ng kaibigan ko ay pasimple akong pumikit para hindi mailang sa
kanyang iginawad na tingin.
"Hayaan na nga, maghahanap nalang ako ng ibang gwapong boylet!" Ani Jenny kaya
napamulat ako at napasulyap sa kanya.
"If you'd go looking for boys around, it's better if you find someone wealthy."
I said.
"Of course! As if tatanggapin ng pamilya ko kung may mahirap akong boyfriend!
Even sa friends, maarte iyon! They only want me to befriend those who's included in
our circles!" Natahimik ako roon at napalunok.

"Yeah, and rich people definitely is classy! Sorry, huh, pero I don't want to
be friends with those...you know." Jesusa said and laughed.
Hindi ako nakitawa sa kanila, I remained looking at them and didn't say a word
because first, I am poor. Second is, they are good people but I don't like the way
they judge poor people like me.
"Jesusa, Jenny." Gino warned and the two stopped from laughing.
"What?" Jenny exclaimed. "Anong masama roon, huh? Totoo naman, as if Sera and
your parents would let you befriend people below us!"
"Come on, I'm gonna give you tips how to catch a wealthy man!" Ani Jesusa roon
pagkatapos tumawa.
"Come on, girls. Mag-usap nalang kayong dalawa, stop polluting Sera's mind."
Gino hised.
"What? Sera likes this kind of ideas!" Jenny chuckled.
Doon na ako natawa at napailing sa kanila.
"What? Anong tips 'yan?" Interesado kong tanong at pinagkrus ang hita. I took
another glass of vodka and sipped on it.
"Hmm, una, para malaman mong may pera, tignan mo ang may pantalon, kapag may
nakasabit na susi d'yan, may car 'yan!" Ani Jesusa at bigla akong napatawa at
napailing.
"That's just silly, Jes! Anyone can have a key on their belt! Malay mo sa
bahay?" I said.
"Oo nga, pangit naman ng tip nito!" Biglang binatukan ni Jenny si Jes kaya
napatawa ako.
Tinungga ko ang alak at napapikit nang gumuhit ang pait sa lalamunan.
"Hey, don't drink too much." Bulong ni Gino sa akin.
I groaned a bit, closed my eyes until I felt his hand on my arm.
Bahagya akong napatalon roon, bahagyang napamulat at nang makitang ambang
hahalikan n'ya ako ay nag-iwas ako kaya tumama ito sa pisngi ko.
"Come on, Gino. Hinaharot mo nanaman si Sera!" Ani Jesusa roon na tumawa pa.
I chuckled a bit, stood and I saw Gino stood instantly.
"Restroom lang," I said, a bit dizzy.
"Ihahatid kita," Ani Gino kaya umiling ako at hilaw na ngumiti.
"No...ako na." I said.
"You're drunk, Sera, baka matumba ka d'yan--"
"I can definitely go on my own, Gino..." Ngisi ko.

"I can assist you--"

"I don't need a man," I said, stopping him. Napatawa nanaman ang mga kaibigan
ko kaya ngumisi lang ako at umiling.
"So, I can handle myself. I am a bit tipsy but I am not...that drunk." I said
sheepishly.
Hindi na nakaimik si Gino, he just sighed and nodded, moving away from me.
"Alright, basta bumalik ka kaagad." Aniya sa akin kaya tumango ako at ngumisi.
I walked towards the crowd, pilit na umaayos kahit medyo hilo na. I saw a
waiter carrying a tray of drinks and I instantly tool one and sipped in one gulp.
"Ma'am!" May umalalay sa akin nang muntik na akong matumba kaya napalingon ako
at napatawa nang makita ang bodyguard.
"Uy! Nandyan ka pala!" I laughed.
"Lasing ka na, Ma'am. Kailangan mo nang umuwi." Aniya.
"Hindi ako lasing ah!" I said and groaned, looking away and walked towards the
bathroom with my shaking legs.
Damn it! Napadami ang inom ko! I am supposed to drink a glass or two drinks in
moments like this so my family won't notice!
Tumitig ako sa salamin at napansing nagdadalawa na ang paningin ko. I groaned,
tried getting my lipstick to fix my lips.
I lifted it in the air and colored my lips but in one silly move, lumagpas iyon
sa labi ko kaya naiirita akong napatalon.
Damn it!
I blinked, removed the stain again pero dahil wala na ako sa wisyo ay mas
kumalat iyon sa gilid ng labi ko!
I groaned frustatedly, walked towards the tissue but to my disappointment, it
was empty!
Hinalughog ko ang pouch ko pero wala akong panyo kaya mas nairita ako!
Nalaglag ang gamit sa pouch ko kaya napasinghap ako at paulit-ulit na nagmura,
I lowered my body to get the things on the floor pero tumama ang noo ko sa sink!
"Fuck!" I groaned and touched my forehead.
Ang malas-malas!
Hilo man ay kinuha ko ang nalaglag kong gamit sa lapag at sinuksok sa pouch ko,
I was annoyed alright!
Kalat na nga ang lipstick ko, nauntog pa ako sa sink!
I shook my head, trying so hard to remove the stain but I can't! Mas pumangit
lang dahil sa pangingialam ko! Maybe I should ask my friends help!
 Lumabas ako ng ladies room, palakad na sana paalis pero kaagad akong napangiti
nang may mapansin.
Rai is leaning on the wall just infront of the restroom, his hands on his
pocket, staring intently at me. He's wearing a black button down shirt and slacks,
nakabukas ang tatlong butones ng kanyang damit at nakataas hanggang kanyang siko
ang sleeve.
I smiled when I saw him and almost hop towards him.
"Rai! Rai!" I called.
Umayos s'ya ng tayo nang marinig ako, he met me halfway and I gasped when I
lost balance and almost fell on the floor.
He instantly caught me, napahagikhik pa ako nang tumama ako sa kanyang dibdib
at maamoy ang kanyang pang-akit na pabango.
"Careful," Bulong n'ya.
I chuckled, pulling his shirt a bit so I can regain my balance. Hinawakan n'ya
ang baywang ko, bahagya akong inangat para umayos ang tayo.
"Rai...help." I muttered when our eyes met.

Kita ko ang pag-iiba ng itsura n'ya, his brows furrowed

when he heard me.
"What? Why?" Biglang naging alerto s'ya.
"Kasi kanina sa CR..." Panimula ko at nakita kong umigting ang panga n'ya at
may nilingon kung saan.
"Lando, check the restroom!" His voice roared, nang sulyapan ko si Lando ay
nagmamadali iyong nagtungo sa restroom kaya umiling ako ng paulit-ulit at pinalo
s'ya.
"No!"
"What?" Kumunot ang noo n'ya bago muling nilingon ang banyo. "Namumula ang noo
mo." He hissed.
"Wala! Walang nanakit sa akin!" I exclaimed, stopping him.
He raised his brow, mas inayos ang hawak sa baywang ko at kumapit ako sa
kanyang balikat para ipakita ang mukha ko.
"Look! Kalat 'yung lipstick ko!" I exclaimed, pointing my lips.
He suddenly cursed.
"May humalik sa'yo?" Mariing bulong n'ya pero tumawa lang ako at umiling.
"No! Kumalat nga lang kasi nagkamali!" I exclaimed.
I saw how his face relaxed a bit, pero mukha pa ring suplado.
"Engineer, wala pong tao sa loob." Biglang lumabas si Lando sa banyo kaya
napasulyap kami.
His brow raised a bit when he saw our position, ngumisi ako roon.
"Lando, ayos lang, wala talagang tao." I chuckled, "Masyadong protective lang
si engineer--"
"Iwan mo muna kami." He said in dismissal and he just nodded and left quietly.
The moment he lowered his face again to look at me, I smiled cutely. Tumingala
ako sa kanya at nakitang inabot nito ang gilid ng labi ko.
Shaking his head, he gently removed the stain on the side of my lips.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Malamig n'yang sabi matapos punasan ang
gilid ng labi ko.
"Hmm, party!" I said.
His forehead creased, mas inayos n'ya ang tayo ko nang matutumba na ako.
"You are drunk, Serafine." He groaned quietly.
I chuckled a bit, pushing him softly.
"I thought you're hiding from that boy? Bakit magkasama kayo?" Aniya pero hindi
ko iyon pinansin at binalingan ang pants n'ya.
Nanliit ang mata ko at naalala ang sabi ng kaibigan ko, kapag daw may kotse ay
may susi sa may belt!
I lowered my head to check on it.
"Sera..." I heard his voice.
 I pouted a bit and touched his pants.
"What the hell..." Nabitin ang boses n'ya sa ere.
"Bakit walang susi? Diba may kotse ka?" Namumungay pa ang mata ko nang sulyapan
s'ya.
"It's in my pocket," Gulong sabi n'ya at sinubukan akong muling hawakan pero
lumayo pa ako ng bahagya at dinungaw ang pants n'ya.
"Oh, talaga?" I asked. "Edi, sinungaling pala ang kaibigan ko?"
"Stop staring at my pants, Serafine!" He hissed halos hilahin ako pero hinawi
ko ang kamay n'ya.
"Titingin lang! Damot!" Sigaw ko sa kanya.
"Next time, okay? You are drunk, i-uuwi kita--"
"Rai...maumbok 'yung gitna oh!" Sinundot ko ang pants n'ya at napamura na s'ya
roon.

"Fuck..." His voice sounded so sensual.

"Susi 'yan?" I asked, chuckling like a maniac.
"Shut up, Serafine. Stand up! Stop staring at my pants, iuuwi na kita!"
"Ayaw ko!" I exclaimed, lowering myself more and gasped when my pouch fell from
my hand.
I gasped, mabilis na napaluhod sa lapag sa harapan n'ya at sinubukang damputin
ang pouch.
"What the hell, Serafine Veronica!" Mas nagalit na s'ya.
"Nalaglag ang pouch ko!" Giit ko at umayos ng luhod para kunin ang gamit ko.
He cursed loudly, catching my hand but I pushed it again.
"Pouch ko nga!"
"I will get it for you...stop...stop kneeling infront of my fucking..." Hindi
n'ya matuloy ang sinasabi nang marinig ko ang singhapan roon kung saan.
I shifted my gaze, halos magdalawa pa ang paningin nang makitang may mga tao
roon. My forehead creased, walang pakialam na binalik ang tingin sa pouch at sa
ibang gamit na nalaglag.
I extended my hand but lost balance and gasped when my face fell in the middle
of his pants.
"Tang...ina." Nanlaki ang mata ko nang matanto ang nangyari at natulala nang
biglang lumuhod sa harapan ko si Rai, mabilis na kinuha ang nalaglag na gamit at
ang pouch, iritado ang mukha.
"R-Rai, naano ko 'yung ano mo--"
"Shut up, woman." He hissed.
I bit my lip, sinubukang tumayo pero hindi ko na nagawa nang biglaang binuhat
n'ya ako ng walang hirap.
I gasped, napakapit ako sa kanyang batok at nanlaki ang mata.
Narinig ko ang ilang bulungan, kuryoso kung sino ako kaya mabilis kong itinago
ang mukha sa dibdib ni Ephraim.
We instantly reached the parking lot, nahihilo akong sumulyap kay Rai na
umiigting pa ang panga habang buhat ako at galit na ata.
"Galit ka?" I asked softly. He didn't even looked at me, seryoso ang kanyang
mukha habang naglalakad.
I lifted my hand and caressed his jaw pero umiwas s'ya.
"Stop teasing me, Serafine."
"I am not teasing you..." Inarte ko at sumipa pa sa ere.
"Are you always like this when you're drunk? Huh?" His sharp voice asked.
"Hmm...no. Ngayon lang naman ako nalasing ng ganito." I chuckled.
"Simula ngayon hindi ka na maglalasing," He said coldly. "I don't wanna see you
kneeling like that infront of other--"
"Don't worry, di ko ipapakita sa'yo." Hagikhik ko.
He froze, his blazing brown eyes stared at me angrily. Halos itapon na n'ya ako
sa sahig kaya ngumuso ako.
"Joke..." I purred like a cat and hugged his neck more.
 Lumalim ang paghinga n'ya, narinig kong kinausap si Lando bago ako ipasok sa
kanyang sasakyan.
I sighed loudly when I got inside, napansin ko pang nag-uusap sila sa labas
kaya humikab ako at hinilot ang sentido ko.
He entered the car, I smiled when our eyes met but he didn't even smiled back
at me.
Sinimangutan n'ya lang ako at inayos ang seatbelt ko.
"I-uuwi na kita,"
"No..." I suddenly whispered, stopping him.
He shifted his gaze at me, confused.

"H'wag mo muna ako i-uwi...bukas na." Bulong ko.

"Why? I have to get you home, baka nag-aalala na si Migs." Aniya sa akin.
I shook my head, biting my lower lip.
"Magagalit ang Nanay kapag lasing ako... She'll just hurt me again...please,
h'wag muna." I whispered.
He eyed me seriously, kita ko ang kung ano sa mata n'ya sa sinabi ko.
"She's hurting you?"
Hindi ako umimik kaagad, I lowered my head and closed my eyes.
"Serafine..."
"J-Just take me somewhere, Rai. M-Magagalit lang 'yun kapag nakita akong
ganito...baka madamay si Miggy." I whispered.
He sighed, I heard the engine started and I relaxed a bit.
Habang nasa byahe ay nahimik lang kami, I tried lifting up the mood by staring
at him.
"Rai, bakit gwapo ka?" I suddenly muttered.
He shook his head, smirking at me.
"Just sleep, Sera." He murmured.
"Oo nga! Bakit?" I teased. "Tsaka malaki 'yang ano mo, huh..."
Halos mapasigaw ako nang bigla s'yang mapapreno. Nanlaki ang mata ko at
napahawak ng maigi sa seatbelt ko.
"Rai!"
"Just...shut up, Sera." He groaned.
I pouted, nang paandarin n'yang muli ang sasakyan ay ngumuso ako at kumurap.
"Why are you in that bar, anyway?" He suddenly asked.
I pouted.
"Naghahanap lang ng mayamang boylet," I answered.
I saw how his grip tightened on the steering wheel, his veins protruded and I
just stared at him.
"Why the hell would you need that?" Aniya, diretso ang tingin pero halatang
iritado.
"Money, of course! I'm in need of money, Rai. Obviously." I said, rolling my
eyes.
"Is that why you doubled the reward?" He asked, gazing at me.
"Oo," I said, pinalobo ang bibig at nang pinutok ay bumungisngis.
"How much do you need?" He suddenly asked.
"Hmm...marami." I said, resting on the seat and licking my lower lip. "Forever
kong kailangan ng pera kaya hindi ko mabilang."
"Give me your bank account," Aniya kaya gulat akong napatingin sa kanya.
"What?" I asked.
"Give me the details of your account." He said.
My mouth parted, napaayos ako ng tayo at napatitig sa kanya pero biglang
napatawa at umiling.
"Oh, come on, Rai! Wala pa akong ginagawa, naaakit ka na sa alindog ko?" I
exclaimed.
He cursed, shifting his gaze at me.
"You are drunk, Sera. Just give me the details." Aniya, naiinis na pero mas
humagikhik ako.
"Okay, daddy." I said and crossed my arms on my chest.
Bigla s'yang napasulyap sa akin, kunot ang noo.
"What...did you just call me?" He asked, raising his brow.
I smirked sheepishly.
"You're gonna be my sugar-daddy, aren't you?" I teased.
Tumiim ang bagang n'ya sa akin, napatawa pa akong lalo at inasar s'ya.
"Bakit walang-imik? So...totoo nga?" I said.
"That's bullshit, Sera. I will give you money because you need it!"
"I need it for my whole lifetime, Rai." I said gently, smiling like an idiot.
"Lifetime it is," His jaw clenched and my jaw dropped.
"S-Seriously?" I asked.
Hindi s'ya umimik, napatakip naman ako sa bibig ko at gulat na napatingin sa
kanya.
"Rai--"
"Shut it, Serafine."
"I won't call you my sugar daddy because it sounded cheap!" I suddenly
exclaimed and he froze but then tilted his head and continued driving.
"Shut it." Aniya pero nagsalita ulit. "What are gonna call it, woman?" Aniya na
walang pakialam sa pinagsasabi ko.
I grinned and answered.
"Papa dé asukal!" I exclaimed and suddenly gasped when the car stopped, halos
tumilapon ako palabas sa lakas ng preno at diin ng mura n'ya!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 4

Kabanata 4
"You don't like it, huh, daddy?" I asked, giggling.
"Shut up, Serafine!" His voice roared, annoyed.
I chuckled more, mas kumapit ako sa kanyang leeg at hinawakan n'ya ang baywang
ko para mas pumirmi.
We were inside the elevator, going up to his condo unit.
The elevator door suddenly opened, napabaling ako roon at nanliit ang mata nang
makitang may mga babaeng sumakay na kaagad lumaki ang ngiti nang makita si Rai.
"Good night, Engineer!" Sabay-sabay nilang bati roon.
"Good night." Prenteng sabi ni Rai at muli akong binalingan nang muntik nanaman
akong matumba.
"Kakargahin na kita," Banta n'ya.
"Ayaw!" I hissed and rolled my eyes. Mas kumapit ako sa kanya at bumuntong-
hininga s'ya at nanatili lang na hawak ang aking baywang.
"Spanish 'yun, Rai. Papa dè asukal." I whispered.
He cursed, humagikhik naman ako at wala sa sariling mas lumapit sa kanya at
pinaraan ang ilong sa kanyang leeg.
He smells great, very sensual and manly.
"You smell great, daddy." I whispered and moved my body closer.
"Sera..." He warned.
"Why, huh? You don't like it when I call you daddy?" I asked and moved away to
poke his nose with my finger.
I heard gasps, nang samaan ako ng tingin ni Rai ay ngumisi lang ako.
"Hmm..." I hummed and smiled naughtily again.
"U-Uh, una na kami, engineer!" Sabay-sabay na sabi ng mga natatarantang babae
roon pero hindi sila binalingan ni Rai.
His eyes were annoyed and blazing while looking at me and I remained smiling at
him.
"My head hurts but you're really...really handsome, Rai." Bulong ko at
napapikit pa at inabot ang kanyang pisngi.
"You should rest, okay?" His eyes soften as he sighed and removed the hair on
my face.
"Hmm, okie..." I answered in a sing song.
Bumaba ang tingin ko sa kanyang labi, pabalik sa kanyang mata at napalunok.
"I...suddenly wanna kiss you." Bulong ko.
He cursed, I saw how his jaw clenched a bit and gulped hard while staring down
at me.
"You're fucking drunk, baby." His voice sounded hoarse.
"Bawal ba?" I pouted.
"No...just..." He sighed again. "It's probably just the drink, I won't take
advantage because you're drunk."
"Oh...that's so sad." Malungkot kong sabi.
He chuckled, shaking his head until we heard the sound of the elevator.
We both looked at it, mabilis n'yang hinawakan ang baywang ko palabas ng
elevator.
I am dizzy, medyo nakakaintindi man ay nanlalabo ang paningin ko habang
naglalakad.
He was almost dragging me, nang hindi na ako maayos maglakad at natitipalok na
ay mabilis n'yang sinakop ang hita ko at hindi na ako nakapagreklamo.
I closed my eyes and inhaled his scent, naramdaman ko ang pagdapo ng lamig sa
balat ko at maya-maya'y naramdaman ang pagtama ng likod sa malambot na kama.

I slowly opened my eyes and saw the blurry vision of the

man loosening the cuffs of his dress shirt.
"R-Rai..." I called and yawned.
I heard footsteps, sa isang lubog ng parte sa kama at haplos sa aking buhok ay
unti-unti akong napapikit at nakatulog.
The next morning, I felt a bit light-headed and dizzy. Kinusot ko ang mata nang
maramdaman ang pagtama ng aking mata mula sa liwanag sa bintana.
I felt so comfortable, ang malambot na kama ay masarap sa pakiramdam kaysa sa
malamig na papag na madalas kong kinahihigaan.
I stopped.
What? Bakit may kama kami?
Napabalikwas ako ng upo sa kama at unti-unti g umawang ang labi nang matanto
kung nasaan ako.
I panicked, looked around the room and realized it isn't our house! Sa
estraktura, kulay at disenyo ng kwarto ay talagang impossibleng maging bahay namin
ito!
I remembered partying inside the bar with my friends...getting drunk and
then...ang susi ni Rai!
I gasped and covered my mouth, mabilis na sinilip ang damit sa ilalim ng kumot
at ganoon pa rin ang suot ko!
Thank, God!
I heard the splashing of water from the bathroom near the bed. Sa ingay roon ay
paniguradong may tao!
Si Ephraim! Oh, shit!
Nasapo ko ang mukha at tahimik na napatili.
Ano bang ginawa ko kagabi? Did I do something embarassing?
I heard the shower stopped, nanlaki ang mata ko at sa mabilis na paraan ay
mabilis akong humiga sa kama at mabilisang ipinikit ang mata, nagpapanggap na
tulog.
I heard the sound of the opening door, pasimple kong binuksan ang aking mata at
halos mapatili nang makita si Rai na nakatuwalya lang na kulay puti!
He was naked! I saw how the water fell from his hair down his cheek, ang
kakarampot na tela sa kanyang baywang ay nakakabit sa magkabilang dulo! Isang hila
ko lang d'yan ay paniguradong malalaglag!
 He seems oblivious that I was awake, kita ko ang pagdila n'ya sa labi at ang
pagpaling ng ulo para hawakan ang panga.
"I should have fucking shave," He murmured in the air.
Nangingiti na ako roon.
Ang gwapo ni Engineer!
His phone rang, I saw him shifted his gaze on the table beside the bed and I
quickly closed my eyes.
I felt his presence beside me, naramdaman ko ang pag-upo nito sa tabi ko sa
kama at sinagot ang telepono.
"Alright, just leave the clothes there." I heard him say.
Saglit kong binuksan ang mata at nahuli ang kanyang likuran na may bakas pa ng
tubig sa kanyang pagligo.
His skin is sunkissed, ang prenteng mga muscle ay halos magpanginig sa akin. I
have seen a lot of models with this body structure from internet and television yet
his body stands out the most.
"Okay, ihahatid ko lang at didiretso na ako sa opisina." I heard him say.
I licked my lower lip and stared at his back shamelessly, total naman at hindi
n'ya ako nakikita!
"Ready the papers in my office." He said. "Hmm..."
I pouted, dahan-dahang kinagat ang labi ko.
He suddenly shifted his gaze at me. I froze when our eyes met and I quickly
closed my eyes.

Shit! I'm sleeping!

"Hmm...yeah." I heard his husky voice.
Nararamdaman ko ang titig n'ya sa akin pero nanatili akong nakapikit.
Tulog ako, Rai! Imagination mo lang na nakamulat ang mata ko!
"Alright, bye." He said.
I froze when I suddenly felt his warm, big and calloused hand on the side of my
face, caressing it softly and felt him removing some strands and placed it behind
my ear.
Bumalis ang tibok ng puso ko, tila nagmarathon sa takbuhan at halos hindi na
makahinga.
I almost pulled his hand back when he moved it away from my face, saglit pa
akong pumikit at ilang segundo ay muling nagmulat na kaagad ko namang pinagsisihan.
I saw him changing!
Kita ko ang pagbagsak ng kulay puting twalya mula sa kanyang baywang habang
nakatalikod sa akin.
I saw his round, glorious butt!
My eyes widen.
He tilted his body and I suddenly closed my eyes.
Damn, haharap s'ya at makikita ko na ang susi ng hinaharap!
I slowly opened my eyes, a bit at first and the first thing I saw is his
teasing eyes at me.
I quickly looked at his lower part and groaned in disappointment when I
realized he's already wearing his boxers!
"You should've opened your eyes like a few seconds earlier," He smirked.
I groaned, mabilis na naupo sa kama at sinamaan s'ya ng tingin.
"Ang bilis naman kasi magsuot!" I exclaimed.
He chuckled, tilting his head and took his maong pants and wore it infront of
me.
"You shoudn't pretend you're still sleeping, sayang 'no?" His lip twitched at
me and I pouted more.
"Pasilip lang eh..." Reklamo ko at ngumisi s'ya at inabot ang belt n'ya.
I watched him as he put his belt on his pants, napapataas pa ang kilay ko at
kinagat ang labi nang matantong sinasadya n'yang bagalan ang kilos.
He looks sinfully handsome and tempting while fixing and buckling his belt,
natigilan lang ako sa isang katok sa pintuan ng kanyang kwarto.
"Sir? Nandito na po 'yung damit na pinabili n'yo."
Rai walked towards the door, still naked on top, tanging maong pants lang ang
suot, nakapaa at hindi pa tapos ang pag-aayos ng sinturon!
The sight makes me uneasy and annoyed when I realized he opened the door with
that look!
I gritted my teeth, handa na sanang sigawan s'ya roong nakakaeskandalo at
nakakahalay ang itsura n'ya pero nakabalik na s'ya sa kwarto!
He's now carrying a plain white paperbag with a branded logo infront, didiretso
na sana sa akin pero tumunog ang kanyang telepono.
He went on the side table to get his phone, nasa may tabi ko lang s'ya at
nangunot ang noo nang matantong hindi talaga n'ya inayos ang belt n'ya!
I groaned, inilapag n'ya ang paperbag sa kama nang makita akong papalapit sa
kanya.
"Hello?" I heard his husky voice.
Naupo ako sa gilid ng kama, ibinagsak ang paa sa sahig at marahang hinila ang
kamay n'ya palapit sa akin.
"Sera...what..." He froze and cursed when he saw me took his belt to fix it.
I was sitting at the side of the bed while he's standing infront of me, very
naked on top and on the phone, natigilan s'ya sa akin.

"Go...talk." I whispered softly.

Doon s'ya natauhan, mariing pumikit at huminga ng malalim bago nagsalita.
"Yes, I'll be at the meeting." He said in a deep breath.
Nang maayos ko ang belt n'ya ay bumaba ang tingin ko sa gitna ng pants n'ya at
napanguso.
"Ang laki ng susi ng tagumpay," I said.
He suddenly cursed. Mabilis na pinindot ang phone at sinamaan ako ng tingin.
I smiled sheepishly at him and raised my brow. I playfully winked and screamed
when he suddenly took a pillow and covered my face with it and pushed me on the
bed.
"You're a pervert, Serafine!" He groaned.
I suddenly laughed, tinanggal ang unan sa mukha ko at binato pabalik sa kanya
pero kaagad n'yang nahuli iyon at mas tumalim ang tingin sa akin.
"Your clothes are there. Take a bath and stop..." His eyes went down on my
legs.
"Stop what?" I smirked, crossing my legs.
He looks uneasy, mukhang iritado ng muli sa ginagawa ko.
"Serafine..." He warned.
"Stop what?" I mocked, chuckling.
His jaw clenched, tilting his head again and shook his head.
"Sera..." He's trying to calm himself.
"What? Rai?" I suddenly remembered something from last night that my smile
widened more until I started laughing.
"Oh...I mean, Papa dè asukal?" I grinned.
I saw how his cheek reddened, napahagalpak ako ng tawa nang tumikhim s'ya at
nag-iwas ng tingin.
"J-Just...take a bath." He said stiffly.
I stood, ready to tease him.
"Daddy?" I murmured at halos umabot na sa tenga ang kanyang pagkapula.
I was trying to stop my laughter but when he coughed and suddenly sprinted,
running out of the room, that's when I bursted out laughing.
I don't know but I felt a lot of ease and comfortable with Rai around. I used
to be close with boys but not like this way.
I am close with my friend Gino but he never made me this comfortable like how
comfortable I am with Rai.
Madalas n'ya akong sungitan lang at simangutan pero tuwang-tuwa ako kapag
naiinis s'ya.
Sumabog ang telepono ko sa sunod-sunod na mensahe at tawag mula sa mga kaibigan
ko dahil sa pagkawala ko kagabi.
Ang una kong sinagot ay ang mensahe ni Gino na nagpapanic sa pagkawala ko
bigla.
To: Gino
Hi, Gino! Good morning! Sorry at bigla akong nawala, may emergency kasi sa
mansyon. I'm sorry for making you worry, babawi ako :)
I sent it and suddenly shifted my gaze and notice Rai staring at my phone.
Nang makitang napansin ko s'ya ay umiwas s'ya ng tingin at seryosong ibinalik
ang tingin sa daan. I saw his grip tightened on the steering wheel and that made me
stop.
"Si...Gino lang." I murmured.
Hindi s'ya umimik, I saw his serious eyes staring silently in the road. His jaw
clenched.
I pouted a bit. Itinago ang telepono at saglit s'yang sinulyapan.
"Uh...anyway, kailan pala ako pwedeng pumunta sa opisina mo? I mean, doon sa
kontrata?" I asked him.
Hindi kaagad s'ya nagsalita, I thought he woudn't answer but he did after a
while.
"Anytime, just inform me." He said.
I slowly nodded, hindi na alam ang sasabihin.
Now, it's suddenly awkward!
"Give me the details of your bank account," He said and I shifted my gaze at
him.
My mouth parted a bit and slowly nodded.
"Seryoso talaga 'yun?" I murmured, amused.
"I won't joke around that thing," Aniya. "Starting now, there'll be no sugar
daddy hunting for you."
Bigla akong napatawa, umiling at natutuwang sinulyapan s'ya.
"I was just kidding, you know. Yeah, mukha akong pera pero hindi naman talaga
ako nang-aakit ng matanda." I said, laughing.
"Isa pa...I like my Papa dè asukal more." I teased and smirked.
I noticed him blushing again but then shook his head, his lips twitching for a
smile.
"I'm too young to be your sugar daddy, Serafine." He said.
"Hmm? Ilang taon ka na ba?" I smiled.
"I'm young." Aniya at hindi ako sinagot.
"Ilang taon nga?" I asked again.
"I'm just twenty-nine," Aniya sa akin.
My mouth parted, biglang napabungisngis at binasa ang labi ko bago sumulyap sa
kanya.
"Oh...I'm just twenty-two. We're seven years apart." Hagikhik ko. "Pwede, daddy
material."
"I'm still young," Nguso n'ya roon kaya tumawa akong muli.
"I am attracted to older and mature guys, you know." I chuckled. "May crush
akong artista, he's twenty-eight!"
"I'm twenty-nine," He hissed. "I'm a year older!"
"But you said you're still young!" I teased.
"I am a year older than that ugly crush of yours, anyway. I am more mature and
a year older."
Napahagalpak ako ng tawa nang mukha na s'yang inis sa sinasabi ko.
"Mature guys don't fight about their age--"
"I'm older and more mature, Serafine! Okay?" Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"Luh?" I laughed. "My crush is handsome! And he's mature--"
"He's ugly!" Kumunot ang noo n'ya at nilingon ako.
"Bakit? Nakita mo na ba?" I asked, teasing.
"Huh!" He laughed sarcastically and clenched his jaw.
"I am a hundred percent sure I look more handsome than that ugly fucking crush
of yours--"
"He's not ugly!" Agap ko.
"I am handsome, okay?" He looked at me briefly, annoyed.
"Mature s'ya--"
"I am much older and mature!" He exclaimed like a kid, explaining his side.
"Oh, kung ganun nga, ano naman ngayon--"
"Ako dapat ang crush mo!" He suddenly exclaimed and I stopped, my mouth parted
and he clenched his jaw and sighed deeply, looking away.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 5

Kabanata 5
I got in! I got in!
Oh my God!
"Kikay! Nakapasok ako!" I screamed at the top of my lungs.
"Huh? Saan?" Gulat n'yang sabi sa biglang pagsigaw ko. Mabilis s'yang
napasulyap sa akin habang sipsip ang straw sa iniinom na softdrinks.
I was catching my breath, ipinakita ko sa kanya ang telepono ko at kita ko ang
panlalaki ng mata n'ya nang mabasa ang email.
"I got the scholarship, Kikay!" I exclaimed and tapped her back hardly.
Bigla s'yang naubo, pumasok ang softdrinks sa ilong kaya napasinghap ako at
napailing.
"S-Sorry!" I exclaimed.
She continued coughing and we both laughed when we realized what just happened.
"Congrats, Sera!" Masayang sabi n'ya at niyakap ako.
I was chuckling, niyakap ko s'ya pabalik at hindi pa rin makapaniwala sa
nabasang mensahe mula sa email galing sa university na pinag-apply-an ko.
"I still can't..." I gasped loudly.
"Sabi ko sa'yo makukuha mo 'yan eh!" Aniya at ngumisi.
I shook my head, chuckling and nodded at her. Pilit na h'wag maiyak sa sobrang
kasiyahan na nararamdaman.
"Aling Kipay, isang softdrinks nga d'yan!" Natutuwang baling ko sa tindahan
nila Kikay.
"Aba! Aba!" Kikay's mother looked at me and groaned. "May utang ka pa--"
"Bayad na ako!" I teased and grinned. "Tsaka diba, may sobra pa sa bayad ni
Rai?"
Natigil s'ya, tila naalala ang sinabi ko. Nakita ko ang pagsimangot n'ya habang
binubuksan ang ref para kumuha ng softdrinks kaya napabungisngis ako.
"Oh, ayan!" Aniya at nilapag ang bote ng softdrinks. "Ano mo ba iyon, sugar
daddy?"
Hindi ko alam pero mas napatawa ako roon, I tilted my head and then answered.
"Secret!" I exclaimed.
"Ay, oo nga! Sera! May mga gwapo d'yan sa bahay n'yo 'nung nakaraan sabi ng mga
kapitbahay!" Ani Kikay na biglang lumitaw.
"Hindi lang 'yan, nakasasakyan!" Entrada pa ng Nanay nito.
"Wow!" Kikay stared at me. "Totoo?!"
I grinned and sipped on the softdrinks.
"Naku, kung kakaibiganin mo rin naman iyang si Sera na pala-utang, sagarin mo
na, Kikay! Paturo ka ng tips paano makakuha ng sugar daddy!" Ani Aling Kipay.
That made me laugh harder, napakurap si Kikay sa sinabi ng Nanay n'ya.
"Sera, bigyan mong tips iyang anak ko! Nang makaahon na rin kami sa buhay!
Walang masyadong kita itong tindahan at 'yung barbeque roon sa labasan!" She
exclaimed.
"Mommy naman!" Inarte roon ni Kikay kaya napangiti nalang ako.
Nothing can change my mood today, sobrang saya ko ngayong oras na ito dahil sa
natupad na ang pinagdadasal ko ng matagal na.
Pagbubutihan ko sa pag-aaral para kapag nakapagtapos ako ay mapagamot ko na si
Miggy at ang Tatay. Tapos, kapag magaling na sila, pwede na akong mag-ipon ng
sobrang dami para magpatayo kami ng magandang bahay! Bibili kami ng kama para hindi
na sasakit ang likod ni Miggy sa papag.
At 'yung subdivision na pangarap kong tirhan? Bibili ako ng bahay roon!
Magpapagawa pa ako ng indoor pool para hindi nalang pangarap ang lahat!
"Ma'am?" Halos mapatalon ako sa gulat nang lumitaw si Lando kung saan nang
maglakad na akong pabalik sa bahay.

"Lando!" I exclaimed, clutching my chest. "Nakakagulat ka

naman!"
"Ah..." He chuckled awkwardly and scratched his nape.
"Pinapasabi lang ni Engineer na pumunta raw po kayo sa opisina," Aniya sa akin
at halos masapo ko ang noo nang maalala iyon.
"Sorry, I got so busy." I sighed. "Pasabi nalang kay daddy na baka bukas--"
"Ano po?" Nakita ko ang pagbilog ng mata nito sa gulat.
"Uh, I mean..." Napaubo ako at palihim na napamura. "Pasabi kay engineer na
bukas nalang."
"Ngayon na raw po, ilang araw mo nang pinagpapaliban ang pagpunta. Kung hindi
raw ngayon ay susunduin ka na n'ya dito."
I chuckled, shaking my head.
"Alright, sige, mamaya." I smiled. "Sabihin mo, grabe naman n'ya ako ma-miss."
"Si Ma'am talaga," Napatawa na s'ya roon.
I chuckled and nodded.
"Ganun talaga kapag sobrang ganda, Lando. Nabibighani na si Engineer." Hagikhik
ko at napatawa lang s'ya sa akin.
Bigla na lamang naglaho si Lando nang makarating ako sa bahay, ewan ko ba sa
isang iyon kung saan nagtatago. Parang bula at hindi maramdaman. Lulubog at
lilitaw, I wonder kung saan namamalagi iyon.
I hummed happily, almost hopping on my way inside.
Malaki ang ngiti ko papasok ng bahay pero unti-unting nawala ito nang makita
ang nagkalat na gamit sa lapag.
Kaagad akong natigilan nang makitang kasama nanaman ni Nanay ang kanyang
barkada na nagyoyosi at umiinom ng alak roon sa sala habang maingay na nakabukas
ang telebisyon.
Napasulyap ako sa orasan at napabuntong-hininga sa ginhawa nang maisip na
mamayang hapon pa ang uwian ni Miggy ngayong araw kaya hindi n'ya maaabutan ang
ganitong ayos ng bahay.
"Oh, Divina! Nandyan na ang sexy mong anak!" Isang sipol mula sa lalaking
nakasando at punong-puno ng tattoo ang nagpatigil sa akin.
"Tangina mo, hindi ko 'yan anak." Malamig na sabi ni Nanay kaya napasulyap ako
sa kanya.
I felt the pain on my chest but decided to just shrugged it off, she never
treated me like one anyway.
"M-Magandang hapon po," I said.
"Mas maganda ka pa sa hapon, Sera!" Bati nito pabalik sa akin.
I just smiled awkwardly, napasulyap ako kay Nanay na naglalaro pa ng baraha
doon sa gilid at hindi na ako tinignan.
I sighed.
Tahimik akong pumasok sa kusina at natigilan nang makita ang kalat ng mga balat
ng pagkain, nang tignan ko ang pagkain na para sana kina Tatay at Miggy mamayang
gabi sa lamesa ay wala nang laman ang plato kaya napapikit nalang ako ng mariin.
Kinagat ko nalang ang labi para pigilan ang bibig, kinuha nalang ang mga kalat
para itapon sa basurahan at nagtungo ng lababo para maghugas ng pinggan.
"Ano? Ito lang ang pera mo?!" Gulat akong napasulyap sa likuran nang may
magsalita.
 Nakita ko si Nanay na dala-dala ang bag ko na nakatago sa kwarto, hawak n'ya
ang wallet ko at kaagad akong natigilan nang makitang hawak n'ya ang pera mula
doon.
"Nay..." I murmured.
Kaagad na naghugas ng kamay at lumapit.
"Akin na po ang pera," I said gently, inabot ang pera pero kaagad n'yang
tinabing ang kamay ko.

"Anong sa'yo na?! Akin na 'to!" She exclaimed. "Ito lang

ang kita mo?! Ano? Patanga-tanga ka na ba sa trabaho?!"
"Pinambili ko po kasi ng gamot nina Tatay at Miggy," Paliwanag ko.
"Aba, anong pakialam ko?!" She groaned, her eyes blazing with rage. "Kulang
ito! Natalo ako sa sugal! Anong ipangbabayad ko?!"
I sighed, trying to calm myself more.
"Para po sana iyan sa kuryente natin at tubig ngayong buwan--"
"Pakialam ko?!" She exclaimed. Napapikit ako nang itapon n'ya sa akin ang
wallet ko at tinamaan ang mukha ko.
"Tangina mo, palamunin ka na nga lang sa bahay na 'to! Bobo ka! Sana kasi
tinanggap mo na 'yung offer sa'yong mag-pokpok d'yan sa bar nang may silbi ka
naman--"
"Eh sana po naisip n'yo naman na tumigil ako sa pag-aaral at nagtatrabaho ako
para makatulong!" I exclaimed when I coudn't take it anymore.
"Aba!" Isang malakas na sampal ang natanggap ko kaya pumaling ang ulo ko.
"Sumasagot ka na, huh?!"
Nangilid ang luha ko roon.
She gripped my arm, hindi ako nakalaban nang dumiin ang kuko n'ya sa akin
braso.
"Ang lakas ng loob mong sagutin ako! Ano, may napatunayan ka na ba?! Anong
naitulong mo dito?! Puro ka pa-sosyal! Wala kang pera maibigay! Kitang natalo nga
ako--"
"Walang nagsabi sa'yong magsugal ka!" I exclaimed back. "Kung nagtrabaho ka rin
at nagtulungan tayong tatlo nila Tatay edi sana--"
I gasped when she pushed me hard, tumama ang likuran ko sa lamesa at bumagsak
ng upo sa lapag.
"Wala kang kwenta! Namatay ka nalang sana kasama ang Nanay mo!" She screamed
and throw my bag, nagdadabog s'yang lumabas roon at sumigaw.
"Lumipat na nga tayo sa inyo, Fredo! Tanginang bahay 'to!" Sigaw n'ya roon.
When they were gone, nanghihinang napasandal nalang ako sa lamesa at pagod na
pumikit.
"Ma'am!" Humahangos na lumapit sa akin si Lando pagkaraan ng ilang segundo.
He took my arm, mabilis naman akong umiling at ngumiti.
"Ayos lang ako," I said softly.
I saw his confused eyes, he shook his head.
"Papasok na sana ako kasi biglang lumabas ang Nanay mo kaya hindi ako kaagad
nakapunta." Aniya.
"Ayos lang ako," I said and smiled again.
Mabilis akong tumayo at inalalayan n'ya ako.
"Kailangan 'tong malaman ni Engineer--"
"No!" I exclaimed. "Hindi n'ya pwedeng malaman!"
Napabaling s'ya sa akin, nagtataka.
"Trabaho ko pong panatilihin kayong ligtas, hindi maaaring basta ko nalang
pabayaan kayong saktan--"
"H'wag, Lando." I shook my head. "Please? Please, ayokong malaman n'ya 'to."
"Pero Ma'am--"
"Your job is to keep me safe from threats in the fufure regarding the case kaya
hindi ito kasama, hindi ako nasaktan dahil doon, personal ko itong buhay kaya hindi
roon kasama sa trabaho mo." I said.
 Nakita ko ang pagdadalawang-isip n'ya roon sa sinabi ko, I saw guilt on his
eyes and pity with what happened to me and I don't want that.
Ayoko ng awa mula sa ibang tao, ayoko ng habag nila dahil mas nararamdaman ko
lang na mahina ako.

"Please? Kahit ngayon lang?" I said gently.

He sighed and slowly nodded, napangiti naman ako roon.
"Thank you,"
"Sasabihin ko nalang kay engineer na pagod ka kaya hindi ka makakapunta sa
opisina, magpahinga ka nalang muna, Ma'am."
"No, ayos lang." I said. "Pupunta pa rin ako, ayos lang ako, Lando. Sanay na
ako."
He nodded, tila wala nang angal at tahimik na nagtungo sa labas matapos
sabihing doon na n'ya ako aantayin.
I wore a simple black dress and pumps, I covered the pale bruise on my arm with
make up and when I felt contented, lumabas na ako sa bahay.
Buong akala ko ay mamamasahe kaming dalawa ni Lando patungo sa opisina ni Rai
pero gulat ko lang nang pagkaliko namin ng kanto ay may sports car na nag-aabang!
I was giddy, excited I'll get to see Rai but to my disappointment, I only saw
his driver, telling me Rai is still in the meeting and can't go out to fetch me.
Habang nasa byahe ay halo ang nararamdaman ko, masaya ako kanina dahil sa
scholarship pero hindi rin dahil sa nangyari.
Well, it isn't new that she's hurting me whenever she's drunk but it always
hurt me emotionally. Nanay ko iyon, eh. I am working and doing my best to give them
a good life pero mukhang hindi n'ya iyon nadama.
"Ma'am, nandito na po tayo." Lando's voice filled my ear and that wake me up.
I looked around and nodded when realized when we're in here. Lumabas si Lando,
kaagad na pumunta sa pwesto ko para pagbuksan at inalalayan n'ya ako palabas.
What amazed me more is when I saw the front of the building where his company
is.
In big, bold letters is the name of the company written infront where anyone
can see.
Miranda Architecture & Engineering Corp.
My eyes widen, hindi makapaniwalay napasulyap sa seryosong bodyguard ko.
"S-Seryoso? Kina Rai 'to?" I murmured.
"Yes, Ma'am." Aniya at tumango.
My mouth is still parted, nang ilahad n'ya sa akin ang daan ay kaagad akong
naglakad roon.
We went to the reception, habang nakikipag-usap roon si Lando ay nanatili akong
nagpapalibot ng tingin sa lugar.
It was utterly amazing! Habang nakatingin sa lugar ay hindi ko maiwasang
mangarap na sana ay nakatapos ako kaagad noon pa at engineer na!
This is one of my greatest dream! I wanted to become an engineer!
The place is ecstatic, mula sa ilaw, sa mga disenyo at espasyo ay halatang
pinagplanuhan. The sofa is not the typical one you can see in most buildings and
hotels!
"Tara na, Ma'am." Ani Lando kaya sumunod ako sa kanya.
I saw people with corporate attires, some holding their hard cap! May mga hawak
pang blue prints ang iba kaya sobrang gaan sa pakiramdam!
Tho, I maintained my composure, habang nasa elevator kasi ay marami akong
nakakasabay na nag-gagandahang mga babae na nakapormal at halatang anak ng
mayayamang pamilya!
"Now that Akisha's dead, I'm definitely sure Tita Angelita would make me his
son's new fianceè." I overheard the girls talking.
The girl is tall, maybe just like my height. She has chinky eyes, nakatali ang
kanyang buhok sa mataas na ponytail.
"Ang tanong, ayos naman kaya kay Vioxx?" I heard her friend said.
 Natigilan ako roon.
"Of course, he will like it! He likes me for sure! I mean, who woudn't like
me?"

The elevator opened, sabay-sabay silang lumabas sa isang

floor doon at nang sumulyap ako kay Lando ay wala lang itong imik at seryoso.
So...what was that?
"Tara na, Ma'am." Ani Lando at lumabas sa elevator. Sumunod ako sa kanya,
nadaanan namin ang nga cubicle ng iilang empleyado na napatingin sa akin sa
biglaang pagpasok.
I noticed their curious stares kaya nag-iwas nalang ako, sabay kaming nagtungo
sa sekretarya ni Rai at nakita kong nakipag-usap si Lando roon.
"Sir, nand'yan na ba si Engineer?" Ani Lando roon sa sekretarya.
"Yes, he's inside. Ano pong kailangan nila?" The man glanced at me and I smiled
a bit.
"Pakisabi nalang nandito na si Ma'am Sera." Aniya.
The secretary nodded, may pinindot sa intercom at maya-maya'y bumalik at
nilingon kami.
"Pasok na daw po...Ma'am." Aniya na ngumiti.
"Thank you," I said softly. Nilingon ko si Lando na tumango lang sa akin.
"Dito lang ako sa labas, Ma'am." Aniya at tumango lang ako bago tuluyang
pumasok sa kanyang opisina.
If the designs of the lobby is great, mas maganda pa ang sa opisina ni Rai!
Namangha ako kaagad sa malaking salamin na naroon sa likuran ng kanyang table kung
saan kitang-kita ang ibang gusali at bahay na nasa ibaba!
I'm pretty sure Rai helped in designing this!
I instantly saw him infront of the glass wall overlooking the place, he's
wearing a simple navy blue dress shirt and slacks, napansin ko ang kanyang coat sa
swivel chair doon sa may lamesa.
Standing with such mouth-watering stance, he looks dominant and full of
authority. His hands were on his pocket, seryosong nakatanaw roon sa tanawin.
A small smile left my lips, kaagad akong naglakad patungo sa kanya at nang
makita ang siwang sa kanyang braso at katawan ay kaagad kong isiniksik ang ulo ko
roon at niyakap ang kanyang baywang.
He suddenly shifted his gaze at me, his once cold eyes turned gentle.
"Hey," He called and adjusted his hand, mas nilagyan ng distansya ang kanyang
kamay at baywang para mas makasiksik ako at makayakap.
"Hi, daddy!" I exclaimed.
"Serafine," He warned.
I laughed pero kaagad na napawi nang kurutin n'ya ang ilong ko.
"Rai!" I exclaimed and pushed his hand.
His lip twitched, kaagad na pinakawalan ang ilong ko at bumaba ang kamay sa
baywang ko.
"You're late," He said, staring at me.
I pouted a bit, sighing and slowly let go of my hug on his waist. Umayos ako ng
tayo, medyo lalayo na sana pero sa isang kabig n'ya ay nakadikit nanaman ako sa
kanya kaya nanlaki ang mata ko.
Napatingin ako sa kanya, nang magtagpo ang mata namin ay kumunot ang noo n'ya
at nag-iwas ng tingin.
I chuckled, sumama sa kanya nang maglakad kami patungo sa kanyang lamesa.
We went to his swivel, nang makarating roon ay akala ko uupo s'ya kaya nagitla
ako nang alalayan n'ya ako paupo sa kanyang swivel.
"Rai?" Gulat kong sabi at nilingon s'ya.
"What?" He asked.
"Bakit...ako nasa swivel? I should be there." Turo ko sa upuan sa harapan ng
kanyang lamesa.
 "It's alright," He said and leaned on the table infront of
me.
I slowly nodded, smiling brightly.
Sumulyap ako sa kanyang coat sa likod ng swivel at kaagad na inabot iyon at
dinala sa hita ko. I smelled it a bit and put it on my shoulder and he just looked
at me.
"Pahiram! Paranas maging engineer!" I said cheerfully and he smirked and
nodded.
Inikot-ikot ko ang swivel n'ya at nakita ko pang inilahad n'ya ang kamay kaya
napasulyap ako sa kanya.
"Give me your pouch so you can sit comfortably," He said.
Inabot ko sa kanya ang gamit ko at sumandal ng komportable sa kanyang swivel at
inikot.
He watched me silently, amused.
"Lambot ah!" I said. "Naku, kung ako uupo dito panigurado wala na akong
magagawa, baka makatulog na ako."
"Hindi kita papatulugin," Aniya at tinaas ang kilay n'ya kaya napatawa ako sa
kanya.
"Ganito pala kapag engineer 'no? Imagine working here in the amazing office,
tapos nakaupo ka sa swivel na 'to, ang saya siguro."
"Not really," He licked his lip.
"Hindi masaya?" I glanced at him curiously.
"Yeah, earlier but I am...now." He stared at me.
My heart pounded, naramdaman ko ang kung anong kirot sa sikmura ko habang
nakatingin sa kanya roon na nakamasid lang sa akin.
He looks great and he feels comfortable, habang nakamasid ako sa kanya ay
tahimik na pinangarap na sana ay ipinanganak rin akong may kaya para hindi ako
ganito maka-asta. I wished I was born the same circle as him para hindi ako
manghihinayang ng ganito ngayon.
"Kumain ka na?" He asked.
I pouted and shook my head.
"Not yet,"
His forehead creased, nakita ko ang pagsulyap n'ya sa kanyang relo at pinindot
ang intercom roon sa may lamesa at nagsalita.
"Mr. Ocampo, I'll go out early. Don't accept further transaction for now." He
said.
Nagulat ako roon, napasulyap sa kanya na nagtataka.
"Rai..." I called.
"Alright, Sir. May ihahatid lang po sana akong papeles d'yan, hindi naman po
urgent."
"Okay, bring it in." He said in dismissal before looking at me.
"Let's eat outside," Aniya.
"Huh?" I asked, confused. "But the contract..."
"What contract?" His forehead creased.
"Uh, the case?" I said.
Natigil s'ya, tila biglang naalala ang kung ano roon.
"The contract's not yet done," Aniya roon at binasa ang labi n'ya kaya umawang
ang labi ko.
"What?" I gasped. "Pero diba, 'yun naman ang dahilan kaya pinapunta mo ako?"
"Anyway, let's go and eat." Aniya at nag-iwas ng tingin, ibinaba n'ya ang
tingin sa pouch na hawak ko at binuksan para maghalungkat ng gamit.
Tila may bombilyang umilaw sa utak ko kaya napangiti ako, I looked at him and
crossed my legs.
"Hmm, don't tell me you just ask me here because you miss me, daddy?" I
flirted.
He froze, I saw his jaw clenched a bit and stared at me seriously.
Hindi s'ya sumagot kaya ngumiti pa ako, I slowly lifted myself to sit properly
on the swivel and move closer to him. Nang maayos ko ang swivel malapit sa kanya ay
tinitigan ko s'ya.
"What, hmm, Rai? You just missed me?" Biro ko.
"What if I did?" He answered, without any change of facial expression, stopping
me.
Parang sinilihan ako sa nararamdaman, ayaw ko mang aminin pero nakaramdam ako
ng kilig sa sinabi n'ya.
"T-Totoo?" I murmured.
He didn't answered me, kita kong pinasok n'ya ang kamay sa pouch ko at
nagsalita.
"Bakit may ganito ka?" Pag-iiba n'ya.
"H-Huh?" I asked, still not full recovered.
"This," He suddenly showed me his hand from the pouch forming a cute finger
heart.
Umawang ang labi ko at nag-init ang pisngi.
"Sir, ito na..." Naiwan sa ere ang boses ng sekretarya nang makita ang daliri
ng boss n'ya at ako na nakaupo sa swivel.
Napaubo ako, biglang napabalikwas ng tayo si Rai doon sa lamesa at itinago ang
kamay.
"I-Ilagay mo d'yan," Aniya sa malamig na tono.
The secretary awkwardly glance at the both of us, with a hidden curious eyes
and slowly place the document on the table.
"Una na po ako," Aniya at pasulyap-sulyap na napabaling sa aming dalawa bago
halos takbuhin ang pintuan makalabas lang.
Nang sumara ang pintuan ay mabilis akong napabaling kay Rai na ngayon ay halos
maging kulay kamatis na ang itsura.
"Sinong nagturo sa'yo n'yan?" I suddenly asked and stood from the swivel.
He froze, hindi s'ya kaagad na nakagalaw nang pabirong hinila ko s'ya at
tinulak sa kanyang swivel.
He slammed on it, seryoso ang mukha pero halatang hiyang-hiya.
"Rai..." I teased and slowly sat on his lap while he's sitting on his swivel.
He cleared his throat and looked away.
"We...should just eat." Pag-iiba n'ya at hinawakan ang braso ko para patayuin
ako pero mabilis kong inilagay ang daliri ko sa kanyang labi.
"Shhh, na-uh..." I hummed.
I saw how he gulped, his dark, brown eyes stared at me intently.
"Sera..." He warned.
"Hmm?" I hummed, I fixed myself on his lap, straddling him with a mocking smile
on my lips.
"If I lose my control here..." Banta n'ya at sumulyap sa labi ko.
"What will happen?" I smiled seductively.
He sighed, muling hinaplos ang braso ko at akmang akong patatayuin.
"No,"
"Sera..." He hold my arm firmly and I gasped a bit when he accidently touched
my bruise.
He immediately noticed my reaction, kita ko ang pagkunot ng noo n'ya at muling
paghaplos sa parteng iyon ng braso ko. He tilted his head, was about to check on it
when I quickly pushed him more on his swivel.
"Engineer ko," Lambing ko.
That made him stop.
"Who taught you that?" I tilted my head and stared at his face.
"Lucian...that corny asshole." He hissed and that made me laugh.
He eyed me seriously, halos tumagos sa akin ang kanyang tingin kaya napatawa
akong lalo at inilagay ang aking braso sa kanyang batok.
"You know, daddy..." I said. I saw his breath deepened.
I looked at his eyes intently and felt the warmth it gave me, my heart is
suddenly covered with burning fire,  playing with it. It may hurt but I'd happily
dance with it.
"Hmm," I smiled, showing him my finger with a cute heart shape too.
 "I...missed you too, actually." I confessed.
I saw how passion dance with his eyes, the igniting flame burned with it and in
the blink of an eye, no words left my mouth when he moved closer, tilted my head
and claimed my lips fully and territorially.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 6

Advance Merry Christmas! Love you💙

xxx
Kabanata 6
My eyes automatically shut when his lips touch mine. Kaagad akong nawala sa
sarili, as if the conscious part of me faded in the thin air.
I opened my mouth when he tilted his head more and bit my lip. I gasped, mas
napayakap ako sa kanyang balikat at mas lumalim ang kanyang halik.
I bit his lip sensually, his hands hold my arms firmly and I gasped when it
hurt.
He moved away, kita ko ang pagkunot ng kanyang noo habang nakaawang pa rin ang
labi.
I saw him tilted his head to check my arm but I caught his chin and catched his
lips for a fiery kiss.
He looks drunk with our kisses, his brown eyes darkened more then he slowly
moved away.
"Rai..." I murmured, readying myself to kiss him again when he tilted his head,
tumama ang halik ko sa kanyang panga kaya namungay ang mata ko.
"Rai..." Malamyos kong bulong.
Inabot ko ang mukha n'ya para sa halik pero hindi s'ya sumunod.
"No, baby..." He said gently.
My lips protruded, bumaba ang isang kamay n'ya sa aking baywang at ang isa'y
humaplos at medyo dumiin sa braso ko.
I flinched, umigting ang panga n'ya sa reaksyon ko at walang pagdadalawang-isip
na inabot ang braso ko at tinignan.
Bahagyang pinisil n'ya ang braso ko.
"Ouch!" I exclaimed, moving away but he caught my hand immediately.
"What happened?" His tone is hard, annoyed.
"W-Wala..." I sighed, tumayo ako sa kanyang hita at mabilis s'yang tumayo at
kinuha ang braso ko.
"Serafine..."
"Ayos lang ako," I said softly.
He shook his head, wala na akong nagawa nang hinila n'ya ako sa sofa at nang
maupo ako roon ay dumiretso s'ya sa intercom at may sinabi.
"Please bring ice," He said and went back to me, he took my arm, kinuha ang
kulay puting panyo sa kanyang bulsa at marahang ipinunas iyon sa braso ko.
"Rai..." Lumayo ako pero hinuli n'yang muli ang kamay ko.
"Serafine!" He hissed. I froze, I closed my eyes tightly when my violet bruise
is slowly showing because of the fading make-up.
"Fuck," He cursed.
"Ayos lang ako..." Bulong ko.
Hindi s'ya nagsalita, nagbukas ang pintuan dahil sa kanyang sekretarya.
The man glanced at us, holding a bucket of ice. Nangtungo ito sa amin at
inilapag ang yelo sa lamesa.
"Engineer, ito na po." Aniya at sumulyap sa akin na nagtataka.
Hindi na umimik si Rai at tahimik na tumungo ang sekretarya at lumabas.
"What happened?" Ulit n'ya at kinuha ang yelo at ibinalot sa kanyang panyo.
He gently touched my arm and pressed the cold ice in it.
"Sera," He called, nagkatinginan kaming dalawa roon.
 "Wala lang 'yan," I said softly.
He stared at me, umiling naman ako at ngumiti at nakita ko ang pag-igting ng
panga n'ya bago marahang tumango at hindi na ako tinanong.

He quietly massaged the bruise, tahimik naman akong

nakatingin sa kanya at tahimik na ngumiti.
"Thank you," Masuyong sabi ko.
He glanced at me and didn't say anything, I lifted my hand and touched the side
of his lips with the smudge of my lipstick.
"Stain," I said, smiling.
He just let me remove the stain. He slowly lowered my arm, ang aking kamay sa
kanyang pisngi ay unti-unti kong nilagay sa kanyang balikat at batok.
I moved closer to him, hugging him gently.
He sighed deeply and I closed my eyes when he hugged me back, kissing my hair
softly.
"Are you hungry?" He whispered huskily.
"Hmm," I hummed.
"Alright, let's eat." Aniya at humiwalay ako sa kanya. Tumayo s'ya, kinuha ang
pouch ko sa kanyang lamesa bago bumalik sa akin at inilahad ang kanyang kamay.
I accepted it, umangat ang aking hawak sa kanyang braso at sabay kaming
naglakad palabas ng kanyang opisina.
I noticed the stares of the people around us while we're walking. They are
probably curious, taas-noo akong naglakad kasama si Rai at tahimik lang na
nakasunod si Lando sa amin.
He pressed the elevator and we got in quietly. Nanatiling nasa gilid si Lando,
walang-imik, si Ephraim naman ay umangat ang kamay sa braso ko at marahang hinaplos
ang pasa ko.
"Lagyan mo ulit ng yelo ang pasa mo pag-uwi," Aniya.
I saw Lando glanced at us, nagtatakang sumulyap sa akin pero umiling lang ako
ng kaunti sa kanya kaya nanahimik s'ya.
"I will," I smiled and took a glance at him. I caught Rai stared at Lando, his
forehead creasing before glancing at me.
The elevator opened, ang maingay na grupo ng mga babae ay natahimik sa biglaang
pagkakakita sa katabi ko.
I saw the familiar girls from the elavator earlier, that one girl with chinky
eyes stared at me briefly and curious.
Pumasok sila sa loob at nakita ko ang kaagad na pagguhit ng ngiti sa magandang
babae roon.
"Uh, good afternoon, Vioxx." She said gently.
"Good afternoon, engineer!" Bati rin ng ibang kasama n'ya.
"Good afternoon," He answered back formally and touched my arm.
I saw how the girls eyes shifted on his hand on my arm, 'yung babaeng singkit
ay kumunot ang noo at bumaling sa akin.
She glanced at me with her sharp eyes.
I slowly moved away from Rai's grip but he immediately caught me and placed his
hand firmly on my waist, pushing me on his side.
Bumusangot ang mukha 'nung babae at tumalim ang tingin sa akin, halatang nang-
iinsulto.
Oh...yeah, bitch.
I glanced at her proudly, mas sumandal ako kay Rai na nakahawak sa aking
baywang. I took a glance at the woman from feet to her head and when our face met,
I smirked non-chalantly.
Her mouth parted, kinagat ko naman ang labi ko at inosenteng kumurap at matamis
na ngumiti.
Huh! Got you!
We reached the ground floor, mabilis na lumabas ang mga babae roon pero ang
mata 'nung isa ay taka pa ring nakatingin.
 Rai quietly lead me outside and when he noticed me staring at somewhere,
sinundan n'ya iyon ng tingin at maya-maya ay bumaling sa akin at muling humaplos sa
baywang ko.

"Come on," He whispered.

Nag-usap sina Lando at si Rai habang ako ay nasa loob na ng sasakyan nito,
kinuha ko naman ang telepono ko at kaagad nakita ang mensahe ng mga kaibigan.
From: Jenny
Sera, let's do a sleepover? Hindi ka na nagpapakita sa amin, can we do it in your
mansion? :(
From: Gino
I miss you.
I sighed, kaagad na nagtipa ng reply sa mga kaibigan ko.
To: Jenny
Hi, Jen! I'm really sorry for being absent always, babawi ako soon. Medyo busy rin
kasi at kailangang mag-enroll for the next sem. Miss you :(
To: Gino
Hi, Gino! I miss you too :)
"That boy again," Halos matapon ko ang phone ko sa biglaang pagsasalita sa tabi
ko at sa paglingon ko ay ang nakasimangot na mukha ni Rai ang nakita ko.
"Wala lang 'to!" I said.
His eyes glance at me boredly, his jaw clenched a bit and looked away.
He turned the engine on, nakagat ko naman ang labi ko at humugot ng hininga at
pinakita sa kanya ang phone.
"Look, oh! Hindi lang ako nagsabi ng ganun sa kanya, I also texted my friend,
Jenny, that I missed her!"
Sumulyap s'ya sa phone ko pero mabilis ring nag-iwas at umirap.
I pouted at kinalabit s'ya.
"Pansinin mo na ako," I whinned.
He maneuvered the car, humaba lang ang nguso ko nang hanggang marating namin
ang mall ay wala s'yang imik at seryoso lang.
Akala ko nga ay talagang dedma ako buong araw pero nang pagbuksan n'ya ako ng
pintuan ay nabuhayan akong baka pansinin n'ya ako.
"Salamat!" I cheered when I got out, kumapit ako sa braso n'ya at walang-imik
s'yang hinayaan ako.
"Rai..." I called pero binasa n'ya lamang ang kanyang labi at hindi sumagot.
"Sorry na, daddy. Wala lang nga iyon, promise!" I exclaimed, full of
conviction.
He glanced at me, nanliit lang ang mata at supladong tumingin sa daan.
"Come on, Rai... Na-miss ko lang naman kasi sila as a friend na hindi ko na
nakita, uh, busy kasi ako diba sa scholarship ko? Then, natanggap ako, kaya nag-
aasikaso ako..."
"You got in?" His gentle voice asked.
"Yep!" I smiled happily. "I can study again, malay mo by next years maging
colleague na kita kapag engineer na ako?"
He just chuckled, naglalambing na mas kumapit ako sa kanyang braso at sumulyap
sa kanya.
"Kaya pansinin mo na ako," Ungot ko. "Sige na."
"You miss them as a friend, huh?" Tumaas ang kilay n'ya roon. "So, you probably
miss me like that, too?"
"Duh, hindi!" I rolled my eyes at him.
"I miss you because you're my daddy!" I exclaimed loudly and smiling pero
kaagad na nawala nang mapansing nagtinginan sa amin ang mga tao sa mall.
My mouth parted, biglang pinisil naman ni Rai ang pisngi ko kaya napasinghap
ako at pinalo-palo s'ya.
"Rai!"
"You...naughty baby. You should stop calling me like that." He scolded yet a
hidden smile was on his lips.
"Eh! Why not? Papa dè asukal kita kaya--"
"Serafine!" Hinuli n'ya ang baywang ko kaya napatili ako at natatawang lumayo.

"Joke! Hindi na! Hindi na!" Singhap ko habang natatawa

roon.
Naglakad kaming dalawa at nang makakita ng bookstore ay kaagad ko iyong tinuro
sa kanya at marahan s'yang hinila.
"Rai, samahan mo ako. Bibili akong gamit para sa pasukan ko, sa isang araw na
kasi ang simula."
He nodded, humawak s'ya sa aking baywang at nangingiting sumulyap ako sa kanya.
"Thank you, daddy!" I said happily.
"I keep on telling you, I'm still young to be your sugar daddy." Aniya habang
kinukuha ang push cart roon.
"Eh, 'yung crush ko--"
"Yet I am damn older and mature than that asshole." Biglang dumiin ang boses
n'ya kaya napatawa ako sa kanya at naiiling na tumabi.
"Oo na...oo na, gwapo kasi 'yun--"
"At ako hindi?" He hissed and eyed me sharply.
"Syempre gwapo ka!" I exclaimed. "Ikaw pa ba? Walang tatalo sa perfect kong
daddy." Asar ko pa at nang akmang kukurutin n'ya ako ay kumaripas ako ng takbo
patungo sa mga notebook.
Sinamahan n'ya ako kahit ilang minuto akong nag-ikot, ni hindi s'ya nagreklamo.
Naabutan ko pa s'yang may hawak na mga ballpen na iba't-ibang kulay ay ginuguhit
iyon sa papel doon.
It was fun, habang nandoon kami ay hindi mawala-wala ang ngiti ko. Nakasunod
s'ya kahit saan ako magpunta at habang sumusulyap ako sa mga libro ng engineering
ay nakikidungaw rin s'ya.
"Here," Inabot n'ya ang isang libro at ipinakita sa akin. "This one is useful
for me, you should buy this."
I glanced at the book and read it, mukhang maganda nga pero nang makita ko ang
presyo ay natanto kong pangit pala.
"Mahal," I shook my head and brought it back to the shelf. "Yung notebook lang
ang kasya sa budget."
"I'll pay," Aniya.
Gulat akong napasulyap sa kanya.
"Hindi na kailangan," I shook my head. "Tsaka, ayos na sa akin na mga gamit
lang na kailangan--"
"I insist," Aniya at may dinukot sa kanyang bulsa. My mouth parted when I saw
him took a black card on his wallet and put it in my hand.
"You should buy it," Aniya at inilagay ang libro sa cart ko. "And buy other
things necessary for your class, don't worry about the other books, I have
references in my room, you should visit it sometimes...to check."
He cleared his throat and looked at somewhere.
"O...kay?" Gulong sabi ko at sumulyap sa card na hawak ko.
Dumiretso na ako sa counter para magbayad at kaagad kong nakita ang paglaki ng
mata ng cashier doon.
"Uh...Ma'am? Sa'yo?" Aniya na tinutukoy ang card.
"No," I shook my head. "Ano, hmm, sa boyfriend ko."
She nodded, hinanap naman ng mata ko si Rai at tinuro sa babae.
"Yun oh, boyfriend ko." I said, pointing my "boyfriend" na abala sa pagbabasa
ng mga story book sa children's section.
"Yaman, Ma'am." Pasimpleng bulong n'ya. "Black card."
Ngumuso ako pero ngumiti din sa kanya.
"Ganyan talaga si daddy, galante sa akin." I said, joking.
Her mouth parted, natawa naman ako at kinuha ang paperbag mula sa kanya at
pinuntahan si Rai na nagbabasa na ng little mermaid roon at tinampal ang pwet n'ya.
 "Tara, daddy!" I exclaimed.
He immediately looked around, nang matantong walang tao ay pinanliitan ako ng
mata kaya humagikhik lang ako at binalik sa kanya ang card.
"Thank you, you're the best!" I exclaimed, tilting a bit to kiss his cheek.
He froze, natulala s'ya sa biglaang ginawa ko kaya ngumisi ako at kumapit sa
kanya.
Hindi na s'ya umimik pero nakita ko ang pagpula ng kanyang pisngi. Sinundot ko
ang pisngi n'ya at nang-asar.
"H'wag ka masyadong kiligin,"
"Shut up, Serafine!" He hissed and took the paperbag, s'ya na ang humawak kaya
natawa nalang ako.
Asar-talo ang supladong engineer.
Kung saan-saan kami napunta, hinila pa n'ya ako sa mga ladies boutique ng mall
para sa black shoes ko pagpasok!
"Seriously, Rai, pwede ko pa siguro magamit 'yung sapatos ko two years ago--"
"Marupok na 'yun, Serafine." Kumunot ang noo n'ya habang sumusulyap sa mga
nakahilerang sapatos.
"Magaling naman akong maglakad, I can probably manage--"
"Paano kong mahulog ka sa hagdan?" He asked.
"I won't! Hindi ko pa nachecheck sa may bodega sa bahay pero feeling ko ayos
naman--"
"Miss, can I get a size eight of this?" He pointed the elegant looking black
shoes there!
"Sure, sir!" Ani ng saleslady na biglaang naglaho.
Ngumuso ako, sumulyap sa tinuro n'yang sapatos at habang nag-iikot pa s'ya doon
ay pasimple kong tinignan ang presyo at parang halos napaso ako.
Six thousand!
What the hell? Ano ito, glass shoes ni Cinderella?!
Napalunok ako, maingat na ibinalik ang sapatos at takot na masira sa lagayan.
"Hi, Miss! Ito na po ang sapatos." Biglang bumalik 'yung babae hawak ang kahon.
I took it and glanced at Rai, nakita kong ibinaba n'ya ang isang maganda ring
pumps sa estante at may sinabi sa saleslady bago nagtungo sa akin.
I sat on the soft couch inside the boutique, inabot ko ang paperbag na hawak ni
Rai.
Inilahad nung saleslady ang kahon ng sapatos roon na may size ko kaya inabot ko
iyon.
I lifted my feet a bit to remove the sandals I am wearing pero nagitla ako sa
biglaang pagluhod ng isang tuhod ni Rai sa lapag sa harapan ko!
Oh my god?! Should I say yes?!
Inagaw n'ya ang paa ko at s'ya na ang marahang kumuha sa sandals kong suot.
Like the poor, beautiful Cinderella, the prince charming put the shoes on me
and it fits my feet perfectly.
Tumayo ako bahagyang iginalaw ang paa ko at inilakad at nakita ko ang pagsulyap
lang sa akin ni Rai at sa lakad ko.
"Are you comfortable?" Aniya na pinagmamasdan akong i-try sa paglalakad ang
sapatos.
"Hmm," I nodded.
Sa fit sa akin komportable pero sa presyo hindi!
"Sir, ito na po 'yung sandals." Biglang litaw ng saleslady pagkahubad ko palang
ng sapatos kaya nanlaki ang mata ko roon at napatingin kay Rai na kinuha ang bagong
kahon.
What?!
He opened it, halos malula ako nang makita ang itsura ng pumps. It's a new
design! Oh my God! I knew this because my friends keeps on talking about this!
 Just by simply looking at the designs and the silver,
shining straps of this sandals! Hindi ko na gugustuhing malaman pa ang presyo!
Nakaawang ang labi ko habang isinusuot sa akin iyon ni Ephraim, nagniningning
ang mga mata ko dahil ngayon lang ako makakasuot ng original na sapatos pero ang
bulsa ko ay nanginginig!
What the heck, Rai?! Tell me, paano ko babayaran 'yan?!
He assisted me so, I can stand. Habang sinusubok kong lakarin ang sandals ay
pasimple akong lumapit kay Rai at kinurot ang tagiliran n'ya.
He glanced at me innocently, blinking.
"What?" He murmured.
"I...definitely love the designs but...how am I supposed to pay this?" Pasimple
kong bulong. "Hindi ko ito bibilhin, Rai! Ibalik natin 'to!"
"You woudn't pay it," Aniya at kumunot ang noo. "I will."
"H-Huh?" Nalaglag ang panga ko.
He pinched my nose and held my waist, inalalayan n'ya ako paupo ulit sa couch
at sumulyap sa paa ko para tignan ang fit sa akin ng sapatos.
"Rai...You really don't have to--"
"Let me, Serafine." Aniya at bumaling sa mga saleslady at kinuha ang card bago
inabot.
"We'll take it," He said with finality.
Still in awe and frozen, nakanganga lang ako habang inaayos ng saleslady ang
mga sapatos na binili.
It's freaking fifteen thousand! For just two kinds of shoes!
Hindi ako makapaniwala, nang ibalik sa akin ng saleslady ang card ni Rai at
inabot ang paperbag ng sapatos ay niyakap ko iyon at naglakad sa daddy ko na
nakikinig sa sinasabi ng saleslady.
"Waterproof po ito, Sir. Kaya kung maulan at may pasok ang girlfriend n'yo,
hindi mababasa ang paa n'ya." Bida nung babae.
Rai nodded and checked the shoes.
"Can I have size eight--"
"Taympers, Miss!" Biglang litaw ko roon at humawak kay Rai.
"This is waterproof, pwede mong gamitin kapag tag-ulan--" Hindi na nakaimik si
Rai nang takpan ko ang bibig n'ya.
"Next time nalang, Miss, meron na kaming nabili..."
Rai pulled my hand on his mouth to speak.
"That is waterproof--"
"Shut up, Miranda!" I hissed and he suddenly stopped, wala na s'yang nagawa
nang hilahin ko s'ya palabas ng boutique.
"Sera--"
"This is too much, Rai!" I exclaimed and showed him the paperbag.
He pouted, kinuha n'ya ang hawak kong paperbag at dinala kasama 'nung binili
namin sa bookstore.
"How about bags--"
"Kukurutin ko 'yang pwet mo!" Pinanlakihan ko s'ya ng mata at bumuntong-hininga
s'ya at inabot ang baywang ko.
"Ayaw mo ba?" He whispered sadly.
I sighed, sumulyap ako sa kanya at kinagat ang labi ko.
"Of course I love." I said, he smiled.
Umiling ako at humawak rin sa kanyang baywang.
"Pero syempre, ang mahal 'nun, Rai."
"Doesn't matter, atleast you like it." Aniya at binasa ang labi n'ya bago
inilibot ang tingin.
"Anyway, where do you like to eat? I'm starving, Sera." Aniya at doon na ako
napatawa at tinuro ang isang fastfood.
"There," Kumunot ang noo n'ya at sumulyap doon.
"Is it even clean? I mean, sobrang daming tao." Aniya at sumulyap roon.
"Of course, it is!" I chuckled. "Puro ka kasi resto, try fast foods din, that
one is my favorite. I will order us my favorite food."
 He nodded, nagpahila s'ya sa akin at mabuti nalang at mabilis kaming nakahanap
ng upuan.
Pinaupo ko s'ya roon, kitang-kita kong parang hindi s'ya bagay sa kakainan
namin pero he's so cute to look at, looking so confused while sitting there like a
kid.
"Dito ka lang, daddy. Order akong pagkain." I said.
He nodded, kinuha ang wallet pero mabilis akong umiling sa kanya.
"My treat! Mura lang naman dito, akong bahala." I smiled cheekily.
He stared at me and chuckled, tumango s'ya at nilagay ang paperbag sa gilid.
"Alright, ang mahal ng libre ko sa'yo, Sera." Ngiwi n'ya.
"As if I ask you to do that!" I exclaimed and he chuckled at me.
"Let your sugar baby treat you tonight," I said sensually. He froze, kumindat
ako sa kanya at natawa nang napanganga s'ya sa akin.
I don't know but I was really happy when the first day of class came, sobrang
saya ko habang nag-aantay kami ng klase sa pagdating ng professor.
It's been a while since I last went to school and I am really excited to learn!
Kahit medyo na-a-out of place ako dahil halos lahat ay may kaibigan, hindi mawala
sa akin ang excitement.
Well, some students are approachable, some are not. May mga ngumingiti rin
naman sa akin kaya ngingitian ko sila pabalik.
"Hi, may tao? Pwedeng makiupo?" I shifted my gaze and smiled when I saw a
handsome man approaching.
"Hello, wala naman." I said kindly.
He nodded, tumango s'ya at naupo sa tabi ko samantalang ako'y ibinaling ang
atensyon sa gamit ko at handang-handa sa unang araw ng klase.
"Hindi na sana ako pumasok ngayon!" Ani ng isang babaeng kaklase ko matapos
nitong sumulyap sa kanyang phone.
"Why?" Her friend ask.
"Engineer Magkaya won't make it today, check mo sa canvass." Ani nito at
ngumuso sa phone.
Sa sinabi n'ya ay nagsitinginan din ang iba habang ako ay walang kaalam-alam,
wala pa akong ganoong account dahil hindi pa ako nagpapagawa sa registrar.
"Nice," The man beside me said while staring at his phone, napasulyap naman ako
sa kanya at nakangiting ipinakita n'ya sa akin ang announcement roon.
"Sabagay, first day naman." I said and smiled. "Kung ganyan, pwede na kayang
umuwi? Ito lang kasi ang subject ko."
"Oo sana pero look," He showed me again. "Baka may mag-substitute ulit na
Engineer na part time instructors, busy kasi kadalasan si Engr. Magkaya sa dami ng
proyekto, kadalasan kapag wala ito may nagsa-sub para magbigay ng mga activity."
"Oh," I nodded and smiled. "Salamat,"
"Welcome, anyway..." He shifted his gaze at me, his black eyes glistened a bit.
"I'm Marco Flores, you are Serafine, right?"
My eyes widen a bit, gulat akong napatango roon.
"Yeah? Uh, how did you know?"
"The seniors knows you, nakita ka kasi nilang nag-apply ng scholarship
and...they found out who you are."
Napakurap ako pero tumango rin. Inilahad n'ya ang kanyang kamay at kaagad akong
ngumiti at tinanggap iyon.
"Nice meeting you," I smiled.
"Nice meeting you too..." Aniya.
We both almost jumped when we heard a loud thump on the desk, natahimik ang
buong klase at napasulyap ako sa lalaking matangkad na naglapag ng mga papel sa
lamesa.
"Good afternoon po, Engineer!" Biglang nagsalita ang mga nasa unang row at nang
umayos ng tayo ang lalaki sa unahan at nagtagpo ang mata namin ay halos malaglag
ako sa nakita.
"D-Daddy..." I whispered, startled.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 7

Merry Christmas, Archers! Enjoy!

xxx
Kabanata 7
"Uy, si Engineer Miranda!" Marco suddenly said.
My mouth parted, magkatitigan pa rin kaming dalawa roon.
I blinked and suddenly smiled. He just stared at me and raised his brow.
"Nice meeting you po again, Engr. Miranda!" The girl infront said but the man
remain quiet and not talking at all.
"Seryoso 'yan si Engr. pero mabait naman," Marco whispered on my ear.
My daddy's jaw clenched, looking away and clearing his throat.
"One seat apart, class. There'll be a diagnostic exam about what you've learned
last semester." He said coldly.
I was startled, napuno ng reklamo at daing ang classroom pero wala rin silang
nagawa nang ayusin ni Rai ang mga hawak na papel.
Wala na akong nagawa at bumuntong-hininga, tumayo ako, bahagyang inusog ang arm
chair pero kaagad iyong inabot ni Marco.
"Let me, Sera." Aniya.
I smiled and nodded, tinulungan n'ya akong ilipat ang aking upuan sa gilid at
pagkatapos ay ngumisi at tinuro ang kanyang upuan.
"Dito lang ako sa may tabi mo," He pointed the chair beside mine.
"Mr. Flores, sit here in the first row." Rai's cold voice said.
Nagulat ako, miski si Marco ay napahawak sa batok roon at umalma.
"Engineer, dito nalang po, ayokong sa unahan--"
"You are not in line," Kumunot ang noo ni Rai at mukhang iritado.
I pouted, naupo sa upuan ko at nagmasid.
"Pero engineer--"
"Alright, sit there and no test for you." He said coldly and proceeded in
giving the questionnaires.
Marco glanced at me, i-nginuso ko nalang ang upuan doon sa unahan.
"Sige na," I smiled.
"Sorry, Sera." He apologized.
"Ayos lang," Mahinang sabi ko at ngumiti.
Dumiretso s'ya sa unahan. Tahimik ko namang pinagmamasdan si Rai habang
namimigay ng mga papel.
He actually looked hot right now! Well, lagi naman pero iba eh! Ang gwapo n'ya
talaga ngayon!
He's wearing a deep black sweater and the collar of his white top is seen on
his neck, naka-angat ang sweater sa kanyang mga braso at nakasuot s'ya ng denim
pants at white sneakers.
His hair is disheveled, seryosong nakatingin sa mga papel at nagbibilang.
Pinilit kong hanapin ang kanyang mata sa bawat paglipat n'ya ng row pero sa huli ay
hindi ko magawa dahil sa nag-iiwas s'ya.
Kakausapin ko talaga 'to mamaya! Hindi naman ako na-inform na part time n'yang
mag sub sa ibang engineer!
Kinuha ko ang ballpen, nag-aantay sa ipinapasang questionnaire pero kaagad
akong natigilan nang walang dumating sa aking papel.
"Excuse me," I called the guy infront of me. "May questionnaire pa?"
"Ay, sorry, Miss. Kulang ang naibigay." He smiled a bit.
Inilibot ko ang tingin, lahat ay may hawak na papel at ako ay wala!
"Uh, paano kaya 'yun?"
"Lapit ka sa table ni engineer, hingi ka, sabihin mo ay kulang. Mabait naman
'yan, bibigyan ka."
 I muttered my thanks, alangan akong tumayo mula sa silya at
sumulyap kay Rai na tahimik na binuksan ang kanyang laptop, hindi ako binibigyan ng
pansin.
I nervously stood infront of his table, like a naughty student caught doing
something bad.
"Uh, dad--" Isang angat ng matalim na tingin ay natahimik ako.
"Ay, I mean Rai--" He raised his brow and I coughed fakely when I noticed the
gaze of my classmates.
"E-Engineer, uhm, Sir..." Hindi ko alam pero parang malamyos ata ang
pagkakasabi ko dahil sa talim ng tingin ni Rai.
"Kasi kulang 'yung questionnaire, wala po akong natanggap." I said softly.
Saglit pa kaming nagtitigan, his piercing brown eyes glared at me before
looking away and getting a piece of paper and gave it to me.
I smiled, inabot mula sa kanyang kamay ang ibinigay na questionnaire pero
sinadya kong tagalan 'yun at haplusin ang kanyang palad.
I saw his jaw clenched, his firm lips tightened and I slowly licked my lower
lip and smiled innocently.
"Thank you, Sir." I said, flirting a bit and turned my back on him.
"Kaya mo 'yan, Sera!" Marco exclaimed when I got to his seat.
"Salamat--"
"Mr. Flores, eyes on the paper!" The short-tempered engineer exclaimed kaya
dali-daling nag-iwas ng tingin si Marco at tinakbo ko ang aking pwesto sa likuran.
The diagnostic exam is a bit hard but I think I got a few questions right,
medyo binasa ko kasi ang librong binili namin ni Rai nitong mga nakaraang araw kaya
may naalala pa naman ako.
Matapos ang diagnostic ay kaagad na bumaling ako kay Rai na seryosong nagtitipa
roon sa kanyang laptop, napanguso ako at napatitig sa kanya.
Sana palaging wala si Engr. Magkaya para ang daddy ko palagi ang nandito.
Anyway, s'ya kaya palagi ang sub?
Ipinasa na sa unahan ang mga papel, habang nag-aayos s'ya roon ay kinakagat ko
ang labi ko, nag-iisip ng tamang oras para malapitan s'ya at makausap.
"Engr. Magkaya might be here next meeting, the lecture will start that time.
Thank you, class." He said seriously and licked his lower lip.
"Thank you din, Engineer!" The woman infront exclaimed, giggling.
My forehead creased, ang mga madaldal na babae ay may sinasabi kay Rai na
ikinangiti ng huli.
Hoy, anong ngiti-ngiti mo d'yan?!
"He's busy so, he requested for a sub. Good thing I have no work today." He
answered.
"Engineer, tanong lang po, mag-s-start na po kasi ang internships, open po ba
ang company n'yo for interns?"
Oh, that was interesting.
Natigil si Rai at saglit na sumulyap sa gawi ko kaya nagkatinginan kaming
dalawa.
"Yes," He said and shifted his gaze back to the girl. "We'll be accepting
interns now, kindly send us your applications and resumes, the HR will review and
send you an invitation for the interview."
"Oh! Salamat, engineer! Pangarap ko talagang makapag-intern sa kompanya n'yo!"
"No worries," His lip twitched for a smile, I rolled my eyes when I heard the
heavely sighed of those girls in the room.
"Do you have any questions, class?" He said, looking around the room.
I raised my hand, nang magkatinginan kami ay kumindat ako sa kanya at nakita
kong saglit s'yang natulala.

I smiled, he snorted and cleared his throat.

"Alright, no question. You can go home. Class dismissed." He said coldly.
 Tumayo ako para ayusin ang bag ko at makalapit kay Rai pero lumitaw kaagad si
Marco sa tabi ko.
"Sera, uwian mo na diba? Kain muna tayo?" Marco offered.
Inayos ko ang bag ko at hinarap s'ya.
"Hmm?"
"Libre kita ng pagkain tapos ihahatid kita sa sakayan--"
"Miss Mendez," I almost jumped when I heard my surname.
Napalingon ako kaagad sa harapan at nakita ang seryoso ang salubong na kilay ni
daddy ko.
"Y-Yes?" I murmured.
"Help me carry these," He said.
I immediately walked towards him that I overheard what the girl said.
"Kahit ako na, engineer." She said, almost whispering.
I smirked, nang lumapit ako kay Rai ay ibinabalik n'ya ang laptop na hawak.
"Tutulong na rin ako, engineer." Ani Marco na sumunod na sa akin.
"You can all go home," Aniya at nag-angat ng tingin sa mga naiwang kaklase.
"Tutulong nalang ako, aantayin ko rin kasi si Sera." Singit pa ni Marco ulit.
Rai looked seriously annoyed, I know he wanted to say something yet stayed
quiet in the end. Nahuli ko pa ang pag-igting ng panga n'ya roon.
"Uhm, Marco..." Baling ko sa kanya. "Mauna ka na pala...kasi may pupuntahan pa
ako."
"Hmm?" Marco asked.
"Nakalimutan kong may dadaanan ako, uhm, una ka na." I said and smiled kindly.
"Oh..." He nodded then slowly smiled. "Alright, sige, ingat."
I nodded.
"Salamat, Marco. Ingat din."
He smiled cheekily, nodded before glancing at Rai who wasn't even looking and
doing his best to make himself busy.
"Bye, engineer." He said.
Rai just nodded, nang mawala na ang tao sa room ay niyakap ko ang mga papel
roon habang bitbit n'ya ang kanyang laptop.
Nagkatinginan kami, I smiled at him and he just snorted and looked away.
"Suplado," I whispered.
Habang nasa hallway kaming dalawa ay inabot n'ya mula sa hawak ko ang papel at
kinuha kaya nagtaka ako roon at nilingon s'ya.
"I thought..."
"Ako nalang buhatin mo," Mahinang sabi n'ya roon kaya biglang napatawa ako at
nilingon s'ya.
"Laki mo, hindi kita kaya." I pouted, tanging bag ko nalang ang hawak. "Dapat
ako ang binubuhat mo."
He raised his brow, kita kong inilipat n'ya sa mga papel na hawak ang laptop at
ipinakita sa akin ang kanyang isang braso.
"Come on, I can still carry you here." Aniya.
I chuckled, kinurot ko ang kanyang baywang kaya ngumiwi s'ya at lumayo.
"Serafine!" He groaned.
Humagikhik ako, nang may dumaang mga estudyante ay natigilan kaming dalawa sa
harutan at sabay na napatikhim.
Tahimik kaming nagtungo sa faculty, I was smiling widely. Pagpasok namin sa
faculty ay walang kahit sinong tao kaya nangiti ako.
"Daddy, may CCTV ba dito?" I asked.

"None, it's damaged." He said.

I smirked, habang diretso s'ya sa kanyang table ay tahimik kong isinara ang
pintuan at sinundan s'ya.
He put the papers and on the desk together with his laptop, pumunta naman ako
sa kanyang likuran at saktong paglingon n'ya ay halos magtama na ang aming ilong.
He stopped, I smirked at him again and slowly put my hand on his shoulder.
 "You didn't tell me you teach sometimes, Sir..." Malamyos kong sabi.
He glared at me pero alam ko namang sa loob-loob n'ya ay marupok 'yan.
"And you didn't tell me you have another boy, huh..." He licked his lip.
Natigilan ako.
"Marco is just a friend, well, he introduced himself to me earlier." I
whispered.
I felt his hand on my waist, gently pushing me towards his table and lifted my
waist to make me sit.
Hinawi n'ya ang iilang gamit roon, sumabog ang papel sa lapag kaya napaawang
ang labi ko at tinuro ang mga papel.
"Rai..."
"Gino, huh? Then that Marco?" His forehead creased.
"They're just friends, Rai." I said, lifting my head to stare at his brown
eyes.
"Yeah?" He gazed at my lips and gulped.
"Hmm..." I hummed and pulled him closer to my body. "I don't like boys...I like
daddy more."
"Serafine, we're in a fucking school." Bulong n'ya, nagtitimpi at iritado.
"So?" I ran my nose on his cheek and slowly kissed it.
"I don't wanna kiss you here," Bulong n'ya at humigpit ang hawak sa aking
baywang.
"Why?" I chuckled.
"Because..." I stole a smack on his lips, namula s'ya ng bahagya roon sa ginawa
ko.
"Serafine!" He groaned.
"Yes, daddy?" I whispered and teasingly stole a kiss again.
"Fuck school, I'm kissing you." He groaned and tilted my chin to kiss me.
Our lips touched, huminga ako ng malalim at akmang hahagkan s'ya pabalik pero
isang pagkalampag palang ng pintuan ay malakas ko s'yang naitulak.
Napaupo s'ya sa lapag, nanlaki ang mata ko at napatingin sa pintuan at naabutan
ang nakatunghay n'yang secretary at si Lando.
"Engineer, kanina pa po kayo namin hinihintay..." The secretary said.
"Ay, nandito pala kasi si Ma'am Sera." Lando said and stared at me teasingly.
I cleared my throat and stood straight, panicking. Rai immediately sat properly
on the floor and took the papers scattered there.
Mabilis akong umayos ng tayo, tinulungan si Rai na kumuha ng mga papel sa
lapag. Tumakbo rin sa amin ang kanyang secretary na nagtataka at tumulong.
"Natagalaan ata, engineer?" Ani 'nung secretary na walang ideya.
I pouted, kitang-kita ko ang pagsimangot ni Rai at ang irita sa kanya. He
gritted his teeth.
"Baka ikaw ang gustong matanggalan ng trabaho?" Aniya, halos sumugod na sa
pagkabitin n'ya kaya mabilis ko s'yang nilapitan at kinurot.
"Rai!"
"What?!" Ngumiwi s'ya.
"Busy si Engineer kasi nandito si Ma'am Sera--"
"Isa ka pang pabitin!" He groaned and Lando looks taken aback. He blinked and
stared at him.

Napabuntong-hininga ako at ngumiwi, pasimpleng pinalo si

Rai at mabilis na kinuha ang mga papel at ibinalik sa table.
Nauna kami sa paglalakad ni Rai, tahimik, sa likuran naman namin si Lando at
ang secretary na nagdidiskusyon tungkol sa pagiging moody nitong supladong
engineer.
"Ikaw kasi, sabi sa'yo antayin nalang natin lumabas!" Lando hissed.
"Hindi ko alam, ano bang meron?" The secretary asked curiously.
I bit my lip, nang tumapat kami sa sasakyan ni Rai ay ngumuso ako at sumulyap
sa kanya.
 "Rai, dito nalang ako, may sakayan 'dun ng jeep, baka daanan ko muna si Miggy
sa school n'ya at absent ang kapatid ni Kikay." I said.
His forehead creased, kinuha n'ya ang bag ko mula sa akin kaya nagtatakang
napatingin ako sa kanya.
"Ihahatid kita," Aniya at binuksan ang kanyang sasakyan.
"Really...ayos lang." I said.
"Just enter the car, Serafine." He said seriously.
I nodded, sumulyap sa secretary at kay Lando na parang maamong tupa na nakatayo
sa gilid, nag-aantay lang na bugahan ng apoy ng iritadong engineer.
Pumasok na ako sa kanyang sasakyan, kinuha sa kanya ang bag ko at niyakap sa
hita ko. I saw him said something to the men outside, tahimik lang akong nagmasid
at nang umalis ang dalawa ay umikot si Rai at pumunta sa driver's seat sa tabi ko.
"Saan sila?" I asked.
Nilingon n'ya ako, hinila ang seatbelt sa gilid at unti-unting inayos sa
katawan ko.
"Going away," Aniya at nang maayos ang seatbelt ko ay sumulyap sa paa ko.
"I'm wearing it," I said, smiling. Iniangat ko ang paa ko at ipinakita sa kanya
ang sapatos.
His li protruded, smiling a bit and stared at my feet.
"Maybe, we should also buy the waterproof--"
"Come on, Vioxx..." I said and that stopped him.
"What?"
"Marami ka nang binila, that's more than enough for me."
"No, I mean, you called me..."
"Vioxx?" I smiled cheekily. "Wala lang, kasi lahat sila ay Vioxx ang tawag
sa'yo and I'm the only one who calls you Rai."
He licked his lower lip, lifting his hand and put the strand of my hair behind
my ear and cocked his head.
"Any name would sound sexy to you, fuck." He cursed.
I chuckled, hinuli ko ang kanyang daliri at pinaglaruan.
"You know, I just wonder, bakit ang bait mo sa'kin?" I asked him curiously and
smiled.
He stared at me, his eyes are the most beautiful shades of brown. His face felt
like it was perfection, like a painting made by the most talented painter.
"I just felt like you deserve the kindness, you deserve better in this harsh
world we're in, Sera." He said.
My heart pounded, humugot ako ng hininga at pinagmasdan s'ya.
"Opportunista ako, Rai." I chuckled non-chalantly. "I'm a liar...pathetic, I
only want the riches in this world."
"Uh-hmm," He hummed and rested his face on the steering wheel, still staring at
me.
"I want money," I said. "I always lie for it."
"Then, I'll give you that." He said again. "I'll give all the riches the world
can offer."

I gulped, my heart thumped harder. Habang nagmamasid ako sa

kanya ay natanto kong ibang-iba s'ya sa mga taong kilala ko.
People always thinks the worst of me, my friends are good but I don't think
they would treat me the same if they found out I am poor.
My mom treats me like I am nothing too, sabagay, wala lang naman talaga ako sa
kanya. I am my father's mistake, wala akong ideya sa totoong nanay ko.
Basta, ang alam ko, I grew up with my father, iniwan lang daw kasi ako ng mama
ko sa labas ng bahay nila ni Nanay kaya galit na galit sa akin 'yun.
The only people I treasured the most, who treats me like I am important and
existing is my brother, Miggy at ang tatay ko.
And now, si Rai.
"You like me?" I suddenly asked him, half-heartedly joking.
 He licked his lip, his messy hair fell a bit on his forehead, akala ko ay hindi
na ako sasagutin pero nagkamali ako.
"Yeah," He nodded, a bit shy.
"R-Really?" My voice quivered, umawang ang labi ko at hindi makapaniwalang
napatitig sa kanya.
"Hmm," He hummed.
"I'm poor, Rai." I murmured. "I'm a liar, a scam. I lied for a living,
nagsisinungaling akong mayaman para magkaroon ng kaibigang mayayaman."
"I know," He whispered, staring gently at me.
"K-Kakakilala palang natin, sigurado ka bang--"
"Hindi mo ba ako gusto?" He asked, I noticed the uncertainty on his eyes.
"Hindi naman ako namimilit, if...if you're uncomfortable with me then I'll try to
stay away--"
"No!" I exclaimed, shaking my head. "Don't...Don't stay away from me."
"I was just kidding," He chuckled. "I won't stay away, fuck it, if you're
uncomfortable then I'll do my best to make you comfortable."
I rolled my eyes, ngumisi s'ya at pinagmasdan ako.
"Magkamatayan na, Serafine. Hindi ako lalayo sa'yo." He murmured.
I bit my lip, staring at him.
"Ganyan mo ako kagusto, daddy?" Biglang inarte ko at ngumuso.
He snorted, cursing under his breath and I laughed.
"Oh, come on, baby girl..." He said huskily.
Nag-init ang pisngi ko, sinipa ko s'ya at natatawang inilayo n'ya ang paa sa
akin at tumitig.
"H'wag ganyan ang tono! Nanghihina ako!" Sikmat ko. His laughter roared,
nakagat ko ang labi nang abutin n'ya ang pisngi ko at kurutin.
"Don't spoil me too much, Rai! Baka masanay ako!" I pouted.
"Edi masanay ka, I don't care what others think. I'm gonna spoil my baby so
much." He murmured.
I chuckled, my heart pounding so hard and it soften with his words.
"Thank you, Rai." I suddenly felt like crying. "Thank you...for not judging
me."
"What others think of you would never define who you are, Serafine. What
matters is what you think about yourself." He moved closer and touched my cheek
I closed my eyes, naramdaman ko ang pagpatak ng luha sa aking pisngi na kaagad
n'yang sinalo gamit ang kanyang daliri.
"And what other says would never make me think less of you," He whispered.
I gasped as tears continue falling on my cheek. Naramdaman ko ang paghawak n'ya
sa akin, one click on the seatbelt and I can freely lean on him and sobbed quietly.
He touched my back firmly, caging me on his arms as he whispered his words.
"If this will hurt me in the end, if the fire we started burned me in the end,
I'll happily dance with it."
I sniffed, yumakap ako sa kanya pabalik at suminghap.
"Me too," I whispered. "P-Pero, Rai, h'wag mo akong sanayin, I'm telling you, I
will be spoiled!"
"Then be my spoiled brat, then." He chuckled and kissed my ear, embracing me
more.
"Edi... Payag ka na talagang sugar daddy kita?" Bulong ko.
"Damn, Serafine..." He chuckled deeply. "I'm too young--"
"Pero 'yung crush ko--"
"Oh, fuck that asshole. I'm older and matured than him! Don't like him! Ako
dapat ang crush mo!" He whinned.
I laughed softly, lumayo ako sa kanya at hinanap ang kanyang mata.
"Alright, you're my sugar daddy, then?" I whispered.
"Whatever suits you, baby." He shook his head, chuckling.
I smirked, lumayo ako sa kanya nang may abutin s'ya sa backseat. I was confused
when he placed paperbags with branded logos in it on my lap.
"Ano 'to?" I asked curiously.
He cleared his throat and answered.
 "This is the waterproof shoes I am talking about," Turo n'ya sa paperbag.
"What the...binili mo?!"
He smiled awkwardly at me and nodded.
"Yeah, and I also bought bags for you, hindi ko alam kung anong kulay gusto mo
kaya binili ko lahat--" Napamura s'ya nang tumili ako at binatukan s'ya bago hinila
ang kanyang buhok para sabunutan.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 8

Kabanata 8
"Wala ka na bang ibang gustong gawin sa pamilyang 'to kung hindi ang
pagpapabigat?!" Isang tulak sa akin ay kaagad akong napaupo sa gulat.
"Nay! H'wag mong sasaktan si Ate!"
"Manahimik ka, Miguelito! Hindi kita kinakausap dito!" She groaned, I saw my
brother wanting to defend me, umakma s'yang haharang sa akin pero mabilis akong
tumayo at bahagyang hinawakan ang kanyang braso.
"Sa kwarto ka muna, Migs." I whispered.
"P-Pero, Ate..." His voice shuddered.
"Ayos lang, mag-uusap lang kami ni Nanay." I said softly and smiled at my
brother.
"Ate..." He whispered.
"Ayos lang, mabilis lang ako." I said.
He nodded, tinakbo n'ya ang pagitan ng kwarto mula sa aming sala at napasinghap
ako nang lumagapak ang malakas na sampal ni Nanay sa akin pisngi.
"Tangina mo, Serafine! Wala ka nang ginawang tama!" Sigaw n'ya.
Nangilid ang luha ko pero bumaling ako sa kanya at nagsalita.
"Wala akong ginagawa--"
"Anong nalaman kong nag-aaral ka ulit na tangina ka?!" She screamed. I gasped
when she pulled my hair.
Lumayo ako at umiling sa kanya.
"N-Nay, nakakuha lang po ako ng scholarship--"
"Wala akong pakialam kung anumang nakuha mong punyeta ka! Bobo ka, dapat sa'yo
ay hindi ka nag-aaral!"
I closed my eyes, huminga ako ng malalim at mariing pumikit.
"Nay--"
"Umalis ka na sa trabaho?! Ano, anong itutulong mo ngayon?!" She exclaimed,
gripping my arm tightly.
"Hindi po ako umalis, pumapasok po ako kapag kaya sa oras." Mahinahong sabi ko
at sinubukang umatras pero mabilis n'yang hinuhuli ang braso ko at hinatak.
Her fingers gripped tightly on arm, pulling me again.
"Kailangan ko ng pera, Serafine! Sinasabi ko sa'yo!"
"Nagtatrabaho naman po ako! Tutulong pa rin ako habang nag-aaral! Nay,
kapag...kapag nakatapos po ako mas lalaki po ang sweldo kaysa doon."
She slapped me again, I felt the pain on my cheek and the metal-like taste of
my blood.
"Hindi ka makakapagtapos dahil walang kang alam!" She pulled me and pushed me
on the couch.
Muling tumama ang likuran ko sa hawakan, napangiwi ako pero hindi ko pinakita
na nanghihina ako sa kanyang ginawa.
"Wala kang ginawa kung hindi ang magpakasarap! Wala kang naitulong!" She raised
her hand, was about to hurt me again.
"Divina!" My father's voice roared.
Naiwan sa ere ang kamay ni Nanay, 'yun nalang ang panghihina ko nang lumapit si
Tatay sa akin at kinuha ako sa couch at itinago sa kanyang likod.
"Anong ginagawa mo sa anak mo?!" He exclaimed.
 "Hindi ko anak ang babaeng 'yan!" She screamed at the top of her lungs.
"Divina, mag-usap tayo! H'wang mong idamay ang mga bata sa usaping ito! Labas
sila rito! H'wag mong ibaling sa kanila ang galit mo!"
"Tangina, Benjamin! Paanong makakalimutan ko eh, kamukhang-kamukha ng anak mong
'yan ang haliparot n'yang ina--"
"Divina!" He roared.

Nangilid ang luha ko, pilit kong hinihila si tatay pero

itinago n'ya ako sa kanyang likuran.
"T-Tay, tama na po..." My voice is shaking.
"Wala na ngang naitulong ang palamunin na 'yan at bumalik pa sa pag-aaral?!
Ano? Anong maitutulong n'yan? Bakit hindi nalang s'ya mag-pokpok?!"
"H'wag mong pagsalitaan ng ganyan ang anak ko!" He shouted.
"Alam kong galit ka pero sa akin ka lang nagalit! H'wag mong idamay si Serafine
dito! Alam mong ginagawa n'ya ang lahat para makatulong!"
Napasigaw ako nang sampalin ni Nanay ang Tatay at galit na pinanghahampas.
I gasped and closed my eyes.
"T-Tama na po! Tama na!" Sigaw ko.
"Serafine! Pumasok ka sa kwarto at puntahan ang kapatid mo!" My father
exclaimed, I obligue.
Sa pagpasok ko palang sa kwarto ay naabutan ko na ang umiiyak na kapatid ko sa
sulok ng kwarto.
"M-Migs..." I whispered.
"A-Ate ko!" Kaagad na tumakbo sa akin ang kapatid ko at humikbi.
Pinigil ko ang pag-iyak, I wrapped my arms on his back and caged him,
protecting him.
Patuloy ang sigawan sa labas ng kwarto, kumakalabog ang mga gamit sa pag-aaway
ng mga magulang namin.
Migs is crying hard, kinakalma ko naman s'ya at hinahaplos ang kanyang likuran.
"Miggy, calm down, okay?" I whispered.
"A-Ate...Ate, may pasa ka." He cried and touched my arm.
"Hindi, dumi lang 'yan." Suyo ko sa kapatid at hinaplos ang kanyang likuran.
"Ayos lang si Ate. H'wag kang iiyak, Miggy, ang puso mo."
He sobbed, mas niyakap ko s'ya at hinalikan ang kanyang ulo.
"Miggy, calm down." I murmured. "Ang puso mo, Migs."
"Ate..." He clutched my shirt and his breathings deepened.
"B-Bakit?" Napamulat ako nang makitang hawak n'ya ang kanyang dibdib at huminga
ng malalim.
"Migs!" I held his arm. "Anong nangyayari?"
"A-Ate, hindi po ako makahinga..." He cried.
I panicked, mabilis akong tumayo at walang pagdadalawang-isip na binuhat ang
kapatid ko at mabilis na tumakbo palabas.
"T-Tay! Tay, si Miggy!" I called.
He shifted his gaze, I saw how horror escaped his eyes when he saw me.
Mabilis n'yang kinuha sa akin ang kapatid, tinakbo ni Tatay ang labas at
humabol ako pero hinila ako ni nanay at muling sinampal.
"Hayop ka! Dahil sa'yo...dahil sa'yo nadamay pa ang anak ko!" She exclaimed.
Hindi ko na s'ya pinansin, sa nanginginig na tuhod ay mabilis akong tumakbo
palabas, pasunod sa aking tatay na nagpara ng traysikel.
Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin, wala ako sa sarili habang pabalik-balik na
naglalakad sa pasilyo ng ospital.
My father was shaking, kita ko ang kanyang pagod doon habang nakasandal sa
upuan.
Nanay looked stressed too, pinagsasalitaan pa si Tatay roon na mukhang hirap na
din.
I saw him touched his chest, looking so out of breath, mabilis akong lumapit
kay Tatay at hinawakan s'ya.
 "T-Tay...tubig po?" I murmured.

Sumulyap s'ya sa akin, his black soft eyes resembled mine.

Malambing ang kanyang tingin, pero kitang-kita ko ang kanyang pagod at takot.
"Ayos lang ako, anak."
"Maayos po ba ang paghinga n'yo? Hindi po ba sumasakit ang dibdib mo?"
He looks in pain but then he shook his head to assure me he's fine.
"Ayos lang ako," He said.
I nodded but I did not believe him, bumili ako ng tubig at ibinigay sa kanya.
Good thing, Lando isn't here to follow me around. Nagkaroon kasi s'ya ng
emergency kaya umuwi s'ya kanina, Rai, knew about it too and since ang buong akala
naming lahat ay sa bahay lang ako ngayong gabi ay pumayag ito.
I don't want Rai to know about this. I don't want him to know how miserable my
life is.
Sa paglabas ng doktor sa emergency room ay kaagad akong napatakbo papunta roon.
"Kamag-anak po ni Mr. Mendez?" He asked.
"He's my brother," I gasped.
Naramdaman ko ang presensya sa aking likuran.
"Kumusta ang anak ko? Magiging maayos ba ang lagay n'ya?" Tatay asked.
"Based on our check-up and observations, it's not that good." Hindi na ako
mapakali kaagad sa sinabi n'ya.
"Nasabi na sa inyo dati na kailangan s'yang mailayo sa stress, diba? Sa tingin
ko ay dahil sa sobrang pagod at stress kaya s'ya hindi nakahinga at sumakit ang
dibdib n'ya."
"D-Doc...do we have to change his meds?" I murmured. "M-Magiging maayos naman
po ang kapatid ko, diba?"
"I'm afraid its not that simple, Miss Mendez." Aniya. "Hindi basta-bastang
maaayos ng gamot ang kalagayan ng kapatid mo kagaya ng sabi ko noon. He needs an
open heart surgery."
I gasped, nanginig ako at napapikit ng mariin.
"Sa madaling panahon," Aniya.
"P-Paano po iyon? Magkano?" My father asked.
"He's suffering from Congenital Heart Failure, a septal defect wherein there is
a hole in between the two chambers of his heart."
I nodded, listening intently.
"The operation will range starting five hundred thousand and up, depending on
the length of stay and kind of service."
I heard the gasp from my parents, mariing napapikit ako at kinuyom ang aking
kamay.
I don't know what to do anymore! I have to save my brother no matter what!
"P-Paano po kaya...I mean, kailan po kailangan?" I asked.
"I won't give time but mas maganda kung sa mas madaling panahon. Sa ngayon,
mag-sstay muna s'ya rito sa ospital ng iilang araw para sa observation. Pagkatapos
ay pwede n'yo s'yang i-uwi."
I nodded slowly, still not in proper mind.
"Pero iwasan n'yo ang stress sa bata, hindi makakabuti sa lagay n'ya iyon." He
said.
Gulo pa rin ako at wala sa sarili. Galit na galit si Nanay habang nakaupo kami
sa bench habang inaasikaso si Miggy para ilipat sa isang semi-private room.
Maganda sanang sa may public room lang dahil mas mura pero hindi ko iri-risk
ang kaligtasan ng kapatid ko. Maselan s'ya at ayokong i-risk na magkaroon pa s'ya
ng ibang sakit.
"Kasalanan iyan ng tontang ito!" Dinuro ako ni Nanay at napapikit nalang ako
nang itulak n'ya ang noo gamit ang kanyang daliri.
"Divina..." Tatay warned. "Please, h'wag ka munang magsalita."
 "Anong hindi?! Hayop itong anak mo sa ibang babae! Dahil sa
kanya, na-stress ang anak ko at nandito sa lintek na ospital na 'to!" She hissed.
"Saan tayo kukuha ng pambayad?! Ang gaga mong anak ay nag-aral sa halip na
magtrabaho! Walang-hiya!"
"Hayaan mong mag-aral si Serafine, Divina!" He groaned. "Tayo ang mga magulang!
Tayo dapat ang nagtutulungan para mapagamot si Miggy! Hindi ko na isasakripisyon
ang edukasyon ni Serafine!"
"At sinong isasakripisyo mo, huh?! Si Miggy?!"
"Hindi! Magtatrabaho ako at kakayod! Tutulong ka! May opening sa grocery sa may
bayan! Kakausapin ko ang may-ari at ipapasok kita biglang kahera--"
"Punyeta! Hindi ako magtatrabaho!" She screamed.
Silently, I left the scene. Nanghihina akong dumiretso sa banyo at pagod na
tumitig sa salamin.
I looked so stressed and ugly. Pagod ang mukha, nanghihina at may pasa ang
pisngi at braso.
Pero wala lang ito...walang-wala ito sa sitwasyon ng kapatid ko.
I felt my phone vibrated, ibinaba ko ang tingin roon at kaagad na nakita ang
pangalan. The call ended, I saw how many missed calls I got from him.
Ten missed calls.
I chuckled a bit and stared at my phone. Binuksan ko ang mensahe roon at
binasa.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Just got home from work. Are you home?
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Nasabi sa akin ni Lando, stay in your house, okay? Babalik s'ya bukas.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Are you home, baby? Please text me if you read this.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Sera? Sorry, I'm not clingy. I'm just uncomfortable without someone watching you. I
was just worried.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Are you tired from school? It's okay if you fell asleep, just please text me if
you're awake. I'm worried.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Baby, I'll call, please answer. I'm worried.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Serafine, answer my calls.
Before I could even reply to his messages, my phone rang again. Tumikhim ako at
kaagad na sinagot ang phone.
"Hello--"
"Are you alright?" I immediately sensed the worry on his voice.
"Hi, daddy." I whispered.
He sighed deeply, I chuckled a bit, trying to be cheerful.
"What's with the deep sigh?" I asked.
"You got me worried, Sera!" He groaned. I chuckled again and licked my lower
lip.
"Pasensya na, Rai. Medyo napagod kasi ako sa klase, alam mo na, pinapaasikaso
na rin kami ng intership kahit simula palang ng sem."
"Alright," He sighed. "But are you fine? Have you eaten your dinner?"
"Uh-hmm," Ngumiti ako at kaagad na gumaan ang loob.
"Good, babalik si Lando bukas at babantayan ka ulit."
"Okay," I nodded.
Hindi s'ya nagsalita, narinig ko ang malalim na paghinga n'ya at ganun rin ang
akin. It sounds funny knowing we are just listening to each other's breathings.
"Rai?" Mahinang bulong ko nang may maalala.
"Yes, baby..." He hummed.
"Uh, maayos na ba ang kontrata?" I asked.
 Hindi s'ya kaagad nakapagsalita sa tanong ko.
"Uhm, I wanna tell you what I saw so, I can help with the investigation." I
said.
"Hindi naman kita minamadali," Mahinang sabi n'ya.
"I just...you know." Tumikhim ako para pigilan ang hiya at ang pagpiyok. "G-
Gusto ko na kasing kunin 'yung pera."
Natahimik s'ya, nakagat ko naman ang labi at mariing ipinikit ang aking mata.
"R-Rai?"
"Alright, can you see me at my office tomorrow? May meeting kasi ako--"
"No!" I suddenly exclaimed, remembering my bruises.
"Why?" He asked.
"Busy ako," I said. "Baka pwedeng, sa susunod nalang?"
He sighed.
"Alright, will you be at school?"
"Oo," I said, pretending to yawn.
"Okay, will you sleep now?"
"Sana," Mahinang sabi ko. "Sorry, daddy. Napagod lang sa school."
"Sleep tight," His voice sounded like a lullaby.
"Good night, Rai." I whispered.
"Good night," He said.
Naabutan ko pa kinabukasan na naroon si Lando malapit sa bahay. Bakas ang
pagtataka sa kanya nang maabutan akong nasa labas kahit umaga.
"Ma'am,"
"Hello, good morning." I smiled at him.
"Saan po kayo galing? Kanina pa ako nandito pero wala akong nakitang tao sa
bahay n'yo."
"Uhm, kasi dinala sa ospital si Miggy." I said.
Nakita ko ang gulat n'ya roon.
"Pero wala lang naman, medyo hindi lang nakahinga. Doon muna s'ya. Pinacheck-up
lang."
"Sino pong kasama n'yo? Pasensya na, Ma'am wala ako kahapon. Sabihin ko nalang
kay engineer--"
"No!" I exclaimed, he stopped and looked at me.
"Po?"
"Ayaw ko lang s'yang mag-alala," I said. "Kasama ko sina Tatay at Nanay
kahapon. Hinatid namin si Migs."
Nagtaka s'ya, nakita ko ang pagsulyap n'ya sa mukha ko at may kung anong
pinansin.
Mabuti nalang at nakalongsleeves ako at hindi kita ang pasa sa braso ko.
"Ayos lang ako...tsaka si Migs." I smiled.
"May pasa kayo sa may pisngi," Aniya.
I tilted my head and smiled at him.
"Medyo masakit nga eh, nauntog kasi ako kahapon habang naglilinis ng bodega,
tumama 'yung pisngi ko."
He nodded, bakas ang pagtataka sa kanya pero hindi na nagkomento. Sinamahan
n'ya ako pabalik sa ospital, tho, is isn't visible around me pero alam kong
nand'yan lang 'yan sa paligid.
Naipaliwanag ko na rin naman sa kanyang kinailangan lang ni Migs ng check-up at
pahinga. Wala rin naman itong ideya sa nangyari kagabi at mas mabuting ganun nalang
iyon.
I skipped my class to assist my brother, nagising na ito kanina at sabi ng
doktor ay pwedeng nang ma-release bukas. He's smiling now, bubbly again pero alam
ko at ramdam kong nagtatago lang s'ya ng sakit.
Nakausap ko rin si Ma'am Asunta, ang boss ko sa trabaho ko at ayos naman sa
kanya na pumasok ako paminsan-minsan kapag wala akong pasok sa school.
She's really a god sent, sobrang saya ko rin na muli s'yang tumawag at nag-abot
ng tulong kay Miggy 'nung nalaman n'ya.
 Someday, I will repay her kindness to me.
My phone vibrated the next morning while readying myself to go to school,
kaagad ko iyong kinuha at binasa.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Sera, you didn't attend your class yesterday? Umalis daw kayo ang sabi ni Lando.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Hi, Rai! Morning! May pinuntahan lang, doon sa check-up ni Migs.
Lumabas ako ng bahay at kaagad na tumunog ang telepono ko.
I sighed, kinagat ang labi ko at sinagot ang kanyang tawag.
"Hi--"
"Is he alright?" I heard the worry on his voice.
I chuckled, trying to be cheerful.
"Oo naman, wala namang problema. May binili lang rin, kasama ko sina Tatay." I
said.
He sighed, saglit kaming natahimik dalawa at pasimple akong lumingon at
nakitang pasimpleng sumusunod rin si Lando.
"Can I see you tonight?" He suddenly asked.
Natahimik ako, kinagat ko ang labi ko at naalala ang pasa. Hindi naman ganoon
kahalata dahil sa paglagay ko ng yelo at make-up pero natatakot akong mahuli n'ya
kagaya nang pagkakakita n'ya sa braso ko.
"Busy kasi ako," I said.
"Hmm...assignments?"
"Yeah," I said.
"Do you need help?" He asked. "We can meet so, I can help you. Magdadala rin
ako ng mga libro, hindi ko naman na ginagamit--"
"Ayos lang, Rai." Mahinang sabi ko. "Kaya ko naman siguro itong assignments."
"Alright," I noticed his disappointment. "But maybe we can meet tomorrow?"
"No!" I exclaimed.
Habang hindi pa magaling ang pasang ito ay hindi ako papakita!
"Oh," His low voice said. "Sorry...am I bothering you?"
"Hindi!" I said. "Hindi, Rai. I just...you know, busy. Pupuntahan kita kapag
free na ako, tsaka 'yung sa kontrata pala."
"I am processing the transfer of the amount in your account,"
"H-Huh?" Gulat kong sabi. "Pero hindi pa naman tayo nakakapag-usap tungkol sa
nakita ko..."
"It's alright, we should talk about the contract when we see each other, I just
transferred the amount in case you need it."
May kung anong dumagan sa puso ko, hindi ko alam dahil sa ginawa n'ya o dahil
sa nagpapasalamat akong unti-unti ko nang maaasikaso ang kapatid ko.
"Salamat, Rai." I murmured.
Nagtataka na rin ata si Lando dahil hindi ko manlang binibisita si Rai ilang
araw na ang nakalipas. Palagi naman kaming nagte-text, tho, hindi ko lang s'ya
maharap-harap.
Magaling na rin naman ang pasa ko. Siguro ay dahil na-bother lang ako habang
naiisip na dating fiancèe ni Rai ang namatay at biglang parang ang bilis naming
dalawa.
Or maybe ako lang? Kasi assumera ako?
But he said he likes me! Pero pwedeng gusto lang naman diba? As in crush? Hindi
naman pwedeng more than that agad?
Dumagdag pa ang pagsesend ng mga kaibigan ko ng articles tungkol sa rumored
girlfriend ni Vioxx Ephraim na si Alice Tan!
Nakita kasi ang dalawang kumain sa isang restaurant at nabalitang ito ang
totoong mahal n'ya kaysa doon sa Akisha! May balitang baka may rumored engagement
kapag naisara ang kaso ni Akisha!
 From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Are you avoiding me, Serafine?
Ngumuso ako at umirap sa hangin, tumipa ako ng mabilis roon.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Huh? Hindi. Bakit may dahilan ba para iwasan kita?
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Let's dine, ilang araw na kitang hindi nakikita.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Busy ako.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
You are avoiding me.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Hindi nga! May assignment ako.
Suminghap ako at halos itapon ang notebook na hawak.
"Ate, ayos ka lang?" Nawala ang inis ko at napaayos ng upo nang magsalita ang
kapatid ko.
Mabilis akong ngumiti sa kanya at tumango.
"Oo, Miggy. Ikaw? Ayos lang?"
"Opo, Ate, may pinapagawa sa amin si teacher. Nagawa ko na pero hindi ko
sigurado kung tama, pwede po pa-check."
I nodded and smiled sweetly, inabot ko s'ya at inaral ang ibinigay n'ya.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
I will fetch you after your class tomorrow, Sera. I will help you with your
assignment.
Huh! Kwento mo sa lelang mo!
Kaya kinabukasan. Tumakas ako!
Um-oo kaagad ako sa anyayang birthday party ni Jenny sa amin sa isang bar. It's
her twentieth birthday.
Nag-isip ako kaagad ng paraan at nagdala ng damit, nunkang natakasan ko si
Lando! Nakita ko pa ang sasakyan ng hunghang na engineer sa parking lot habang
kausap ang bodyguard!
Maaga kasi kaming pinalabas at hindi sakto sa uwian kaya nakatakas ako na wala
silang dalawang alam!
And now, I am about to party!
Screams and the clinking of glasses made a loud sound in our place.
She rented a private place inside the bar where we can celebrate her birthday.
"Happy birthday, Jenny!" Masayang sigawan roon naming magkakaibigan at iba pang
mga kakilala ni Jenny.
A sound filled the place, sumabog ang iba't-iba at makulay na ilaw sa lugar.
Kaagad kong naramdaman ang hawak sa aking baywang at napatawa ako nang makita si
Gino.
"Cheers, Gino!" I exclaimed.
He smirked, iniangat ang baso at pinagbigyan ako.
"I miss you, Sera." He said.
Hindi ako umimik. Diniretso ko ang pag-inom ng alak at ang bahagyang pagsayaw
sa tugtog.
"Where have you been? Hindi ka na sumasama sa bar hopping." Aniya.
"I was busy, Gino." I chuckled. "Alam mo na, studies, travel."
"I can't see your posts on IG." Aniya at hinapit ang baywang ko.
"I don't post much," I lied and chuckled.
Humahangos na tumakbo si Jesusa habang humahagalpak.
"Andyan na! Andyan na!" She exclaimed. I was confused, naabutan kong hinihila
ng iilang pinsan si Jenny at pinaupo sa isang magandang upuan sa gitna.
"Shit! I'm excited!" Jesusa exclaimed. Napabaling s'ya sa akin, nagulat ako
nang paghiwalayin n'ya kami ni Gino at pinaupo ako sa sofa.
"What..."
 "Tig-iisa tayo, Sera! Bahala na 'yung iba basta sinigurado
kong mayroon tayong tatlo!"
"What? Anong meron?" Gino asked.
"May mga macho dancers!" She exclaimed and my mouth parted.
"Seryoso?" I exclaimed. She chuckled and nodded.
"Tinotoo n'yo?! Akala ko joke lang?" Tawa ko roon.
"Oo naman! Surprise kay Jenny!" Aniya at bigla akong natawa at napailing.
The lights turned off, natahimik ang lugar at ang tili ni Jenny ang pumaibabaw
nang may malamyos na musika ang tumugtog at ang ilaw ay naging malumanay at
nakakaantok.
Unti-unting bumukas ang pintuan, napatawa ako ng malakas nang may mga maharot
na tugtog at ilaw ang pumainlang sa ere at halos mapatayo na si Jenny sa kilig.
"Damn it, kung anu-anong kalokohan ni Jesusa." Tawa ni Gino sa may tenga ko.
Hindi ko s'ya pinansin, naramdaman ko ang kanyang braso sa likuran ng sofa na
kinauupuan ko at napakurap nang bumukas ang pinto at biglang may mga pumasok na
lalaki.
I laughed when I saw a group of men entering the place.
They are all wearing black body shirts and loose maong pants, lahat rin sila ay
nakamaskara roon.
Kaagad na may mga lalaking pumunta sa birthday girl, tawa lang ako ng tawa
habang nanunuod at magmumura si Gino sa tabi ko.
I saw the girls getting their own macho dancers, thrilled na thrilled naman ako
at tuwang-tuwa na manuod ng mga gwapong mga katawan na gumigiling-giling roon.
"Let's just leave, Sera." Bulong ni Gino sa akin.
"H'wag kang KJ!" I laughed.
I saw a man dancing with Jesusa now, may sinabi s'ya sa isang lalaki at tinuro
ako.
Napabaling sa akin ang lalaki, nang maglakad ito palapit sa akin ay napatili
ako at napahagalpak.
"Damn it!" Gino cursed.
The man in black shirt smiled and walked towards me, macho, pero kaagad akong
napanguso nang may lumitaw na isang lalaki rin mula sa likuran nito at tinulak ito
palayo at hinawi.
My brow raised at that, instead of the black shirt, the man is wearing a white
shirt and maong pants. Nagreklamo ang lalaki roon sa pagtulak 'nung nakaputi pero
walang nagawa at iba nalang ang sinayawan.
Unlike the man in black shirt, this certain man didn't even flashed a smile.
He's wearing a mask, he confidently walked towards me and I noticed how fit and
athletic his body is.
I coudn't see the face clearly because of the dim and playful lights.
Kumalabog ang puso ko at nakagat ang labi. I shamelessly glanced at his body
and my mouth parted.
Nung malapit na ang lalaki sa akin ay nagitla ako nang biglang tumayo si Gino
sa sofa at humarang sa harapan ko.
"Sorry, she's off-limits--" Isang tulak lang ng lalaking nakaputi ay tumalsik
na si Gino kung saan.
"Gino!" I exclaimed, mabilis na nilingon si Gino na nakaupo sa lapag.
He stood, ready to attack when I saw familiar men pulled him away. Nanlaki ang
mata ko nang makita si mga pinsan ni Rai! Caspian at Lucian!
What?
Hindi ako makapaniwala, magsasalita sana pero isang puting shirt at tumakip sa
mukha ko kaya napatili ako at mabilis na kinuha ang shirt sa mukha ko.
My jaw dropped and my eyes widen when I saw the man shirtless, his ripped body
on my sight. Lumalim ang paghinga ko kung paano ito biglang gumiling sa harapan ko.
The man sexily danced infront of me, rolling his body. Iniangat n'ya ang kamay
n'ya at ipinaikot sa ere.
He moved closer, umawang ang labi ko nang hulihin nito ang kamay ko, hinila ako
patayo at walang hirap na naiupo ako sa stool.
 Wala pa rin ako sa sarili. May kanya-kanyang mundo ang mga tao sa kasiyahan
pero ang atensyon ko ay nasa lalaking gumigiling sa harapan ko.
"Way to go, Serafine!" Jesusa exclaimed.
The man placed his leg apart, grinding his hips on my lap and my mouth parted
when his crotch touched my leg.
He moved away, pulling me softly to stand and gripped my waist, dancing against
my body.
Napalunok ako nang biglang abutin nito ang kamay ko at ipinatong sa kanyang abs
bago ako hinapit sa baywang.
Our eyes met and I almost lost my sanity when I noticed his familiar brown
eyes, staring intently at me.
"H-How..."
He smirked, pushing me more against his body and lowered his head to whisper.
"Do you like daddy to dance, huh, baby girl?" He whispered sensually and bit my
ear.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 9

Kabanata 9
"Stop fucking laughing, Serafine!" His voice roared.
Instead of shutting up, mas napahagalpak ako ng tawa. My voice sounded like a
high-pitched witch laughing like a madman.
Seryosong tumitig s'ya. Nahampas ko naman ang lamesa at tinuro s'ya,
humahagalpak ng tawa.
"M-Macho dancer..." I murmured and laughed again.
"Vioxx, normal ba itong girlfriend mo?" Ani Caspian roon na nakapahalumbaba sa
may harapan ko.
"Ikaw nga tricycle driver!" I exclaimed and pointed him. "Naalala pa kita 'nung
hinatid mo ko!"
Ang ngisi nito ay unti-unting naging hilaw nang sumulyap kay Rai sa tabi ko.
"Yari si Alcantara," Wave whistled.
"I will pray for you soul, Kuya." Warrion murmured coldly.
"You what?" Mariing sabi ni Rai sa tabi ko.
"H-Huh?" Caspian blinked and I chuckled on how these cousins look so adorable!
"Hinatid daw ang baby mo, Vioxx. Payag ka? Tangina nitong si Alcantara, yari
'to kay Lars." Lucian laughed.
"You ass--" Tumayo si Rai at akmang sasapukin ang pinsan kaya mabilis ko s'yang
hinila paupo.
"Hinatid lang!" I exclaimed.
"I am a freaking driver, Vioxx! Alangan! Pasahero nga!" Aniya at nanlaki ang
mata. "May Reev ako, mga hangal!"
"You--"
"Hinatid nga lang ako, Rai!" Nanlaki ang mata ko nang makitang iritado talaga
s'ya.
"Bakit ka hinahatid? Ako lang ang pwedeng maghatid sayo, Serafine!" His voice
roared.
Natahimik kaming lahat, kita ko ang sabay-sabay na pag-awang ng labi ng
magpipinsan roon at gulat na napasulyap kay Rai na nakakunot ang noo.
"He's fucking whipped," Wave suddenly murmured.
Rai groaned and closed his eyes tightly. I saw his jaw clenched and I rolled my
eyes and smirked.
"You know, daddy..." I started.
"What the hell?" Lucian murmured. "A-Anong tawag mo, Sera?"
"Huh?" Napasulyap ako sa magpipinsan at sumulyap kay Rai na nakapikit lang roon
at kunot ang noo.
"You called him what?" Cas asked.
"Daddy--"
"Shut up, Serafine." Reklamo ni Rai at sinamaan ako ng tingin pero ngumisi lang
ako.
I pulled his head down, ibinagsak n'ya ang ulo sa balikat ko at napatawa nalang
ako nang ipaling n'ya ang ulo at sumiksik sa aking leeg.
"Ulitin mo, Sera." Ani Cas roon na malaki ang ngiti.
"He's my daddy, you know?" I said.
"Sugar daddy?" Halos mapaubo si Warrion nang marinig iyon at tumango ako.
"Yeah, but we don't call it that way. Mas gusto kong tawagin s'yang Papa dè
asukal." I said with a spanish accent.
They bursted out laughing, napatawa rin ako roon at si Rai ay nagmumura lang sa
leeg ko.
"Tangina, sugar daddy ang hayop." Caspian laughed.
"Oh, fuck you all!" Biglang nag-angat ng tingin si Rai at nagmura.
"Sshh, bad 'yan!" I exclaimed and slapped his arm.
Ngumiwi s'ya, sinamaan ako ng tingin pero nang irapan ko s'ya ay ngumuso s'ya
at isiniksik ang mukhang muli sa leeg ko.

"Paanong sugar daddy?" Hirit pa ni Caspian roon kaya pabiro

kong iniangat ang kamay ko.
I showed them a money sign and they bursted out laughing again.
"Tangina, maluho sa jowa 'yung utang tinataguan!" Lucian suddenly exclaimed.
Rai groaned, nagsitawanan nanaman ang magpipinsan at mukha kaming tanga rito na
nag-iingay sa convenient store.
Nagitla ako nang biglang may dinukot si Lucian at naglabas ng isang maliit na
notebook.
"Fuck, maniningil na..." I heard Warrion laughed.
"Buti handy itong magic notebook ko," Lucian handsomely smirked and looked at
my direction.
"Hoy, Miranda! Bayad-bayad!" He groaned.
"M-May utang 'to?" I asked.
"Lahat ng mga hayop na 'yan, may utang!" Lucian pointed his cousins one by one.
Wave Nievarez cleared his throat, suddenly looking away. He brushed his blonde
hair and pretended to not hear anything.
Caspian Alcantara whistled like an idiot, kita kong biglang hinarangan n'ya ng
daliri ang dumaang mga langgam sa lamesa para hindi makatakas.
Warrion licked his lip, nakita kong kumislap ang mata n'ya at may pinindot sa
phone na hawak.
"Please check Winter for me." He said on the line.
And Rai is hiding his face on my neck, hugging my waist tightly.
"Ay, wow! May sariling mundo na bigla ang mga walanghiya!" Lucian exclaimed.
Pinigil ko ang ngisi, bugnot na bugnot itong ngumiwi at nilapag ang notebook sa
lamesa.
"Sige, langhiya kayo. Last na utang na 'to!" Giit n'ya.
Sabay-sabay na napalingon ang magpipinsan sa kanya, miski si Rai sa balikat ko
ay umayos ng upo at ngumiwi.
"Magkano ba kasi utang ko?" Reklamo nito.
"Mga gago, takot hindi makautang!" He groaned. "Sa susunod may interes na ito,
huh! Nakakasira kayo ng negosyo!"
Ngumuso si Lucian at sinuklay ang buhok gamit ang daliri bago binuksan ang
notebook.
"Unahin natin 'yung sa huli, letter V. Hoy, Vioxx. Utang mo." Tinuro n'ya ang
notebook.
"I have no cash with me," Ngiwi ni Rai doon.
Ngumiwi si Lucian, nilagay ang ballpen sa may tenga n'ya at sumama ang tingin.
 "Sugar daddy ka wala kang pambayad sa sixty point fifty pesos?!" He exclaimed.
My mouth parted, nagpabalik-balik ng tingin ko sa kanilang magpinsan.
"S-Sixty?" I exclaimed and stared at Rai. "You jerk, sixty ang utang mo wala
kang pambayad?!"
"Diba?!" Lucian retorted. "Pero, Sera, may fifty centavos, h'wag mong
kaligtaan."
Nagsitawanan sila roon, ngumuso naman si Rai at nilingon ako.
"Wala akong barya." He pouted.
I gasped, sumulyap ako kay Lucian na masama ang mukha at kay Rai bago pitikin
ang kanyang labi.
"Aww," He whinned.
Umirap ako, kinuha ko ang wallet ko at nakita ko ang pagningning ng mata ni
Lucian roon.
Naglabas ako ng seventy-pesos at inilahad ang pera kay Lucian.
"Babayaran mo utang n'ya?" Ani Lucian na malaki ang ngiti at kinuha ang binigay
ko.

"Nakakahiya naman kay engineer, walang barya." Ngiwi ko.

"Sera..." He whinned. I rolled my eyes, kita kong sinulat ni Lucian ang kung
ano sa notebook n'ya at ibinigay sa akin.
"Pirmahan mo, Sera. Para fully-paid na." Aniya.
Hindi ko alam pero tawang-tawa ako habang pumipirma, may mga nakasulat pang mga
witness roon tungkol sa kabayaran ng utang.
"S-Seryoso 'to?" I asked, chuckling while giving it back.
"Oo, mahirap ang buhay, Sera. Kailangan maningil kahit piso." Ani Lucian at
ngumisi.
"May point ka. Tama!" I agreed and nodded.
"Anyway, may sukli ka." Kumapkap s'ya sa bulsa para sa sukli ko pero umiling
ako at ngumisi.
"H'wag na, keep the change." I said.
His mouth parted, I heard Caspian snorted and laughed.
"Amazed na amazed nanaman si sugar daddy," Ngisi nito. "Sana all may jowa na
nagbabayad ng utang!"
"Meron 'no, si Wave." Ani Lucian roon kaya nilingon namin si Wave na ngumiwi
lang bigla.
"Shut up, Castanier." He groaned.
"Bakit ba kayo nanditong lahat, huh? This is supposed to be mine and Serafine's
dinner." Reklamo bigla 'nung daddy ko.
"Wow, excuse me! Dapat nilibre mo kami!" Caspian retorted.
"For?" He groaned.
"We helped you gate crash that birthday party!" Ngiwi ni Warrion. "We deserve
food, Miranda!"
"No! Ngayon ko lang nasolo ito! There's no way I'll let you dine--"
"Rai!" I exclaimed. "Isama mo na sila! Tinulungan ka ngang itakas ako dun sa
birthday ng kaibigan ko tapos..."
Tumitig s'ya sa akin, mang makitang nakanguso na ako ay napahugot s'ya ng
hininga roon.
"Alright...alright..." He nodded non-chalantly.
Kaya ang ending, sama-sama kaming kumain sa isang fast food na bukas pa kahit
gabi. Of course, Rai treated us all. Labag pa nga sa loob pero kinokonsensya s'ya
ng mga pinsan kaya wala nang nagawa.
It was fun to be with them, knowing that after the rough, tiring day I am
happy. I am laughing with their humor.
Naiiling pa ako habang nagbabatuhan sila ng buto ng chicken joy at nag-aagawan
sa biniling isang pirasong jolly hotdog.
"Hati-hatiin n'yo," I said, getting the box of jolly hotdog.
"Dapat pantay, Sera. Kaso wala kaming ruler." Ani Wave.
 I laughed, naiiling na inabot ko ito at tinitigan para masiguradong makukuha ko
ang sukat para sa kanilang lima.
I took the unused spoon and fork and divided the piece in five equally.
"See?" I smiled, inabot ko sa kanila iyon at nag-uunahan silang kunin ang may
pinakamaraming sauce sa itaas.
I was just smiling genuinely while looking at these handsome boys with pure and
genuine souls. They looked mature but they are kids in heart.
I caught Rai smiling widely, kagat-kagat ang hotdog at nang magkatinginan kami
ay inilahad n'ya sa akin ang kalahati.
"Kainin mo na," I shook my head and smiled.
Slowly I felt his hand on my waist, napasulyap ako sa kanya at marahang
sumandal sa kanyang balikat.
His hand lifted from my waist up to my arms, brushing it softly.

"Are you tired?" He suddenly whispered.

I glanced at him, smiling and shaking my head.
"Ayos lang ako," Bulong ko.
Saglit pa kaming nagkwentuhang lahat, natatawa kung paano pa ako naitakas ni
Rai sa party ng kaibigan.
Well...yeah, we pretended that the macho dancer, my daddy, will take me
somewhere to do that nasty thing after lap dancing me and kissing my neck.
Syempre, ang mga kaibigan ko ay tuwang-tuwa at ibinenta ako at hindi ko na alam
kung saan napadpad si Gino kaya matagumpay kaming nakaalis.
Habang nakapulupot sa akin si Rai at nagpapaalam ako sa kanyang mga pinsan ay
kinakausap n'ya si Lando.
I heard him saying that I will stay with him tonight kaya sumulyap ako sa
kanya.
Caspian whistled.
"Baka pakitaan ka pa ng ibang macho dancer moves," Bulong ni Lucian sa akin.
"Tinuruan ko 'yan ng tips."
I laughed. Natigil sa pag-uusap si Lando at Rai at ngumiwi ang huli at sinamaan
ng tingin si Lucian.
"Magsiuwi na nga kayo! Mga istorbo!" He exclaimed.
I just shook my head, isa-isa silang kumaway at nagpaalam bago nag-convoy sa
sasakyan.
"Baby," Nilingon ko si Rai nang bigla s'yang bumulong.
"Hmm?"
"Do you want to..." He cleared his throat. "Uhm, stay at my house tonight?"
"Huh?" Gulat kong sabi.
"I...uhm..." He licked his lip. "I got your contract at home and I ordered
foods for us, I want to watch a movie with you."
My heart thumped, nakagat ko ang labi ko at napasulyap kay Lando na naroon at
nakatayo sa gilid.
"Pero kasi sa bahay, baka kailangan ako nila tatay--"
"Babantayan ko po ang pamilya mo, Ma'am Sera." Ani Lando roon kaya nanlaki ang
mata ko.
"T-Talaga?"
"Opo, sige na at magpahinga ka muna doon kina engineer, pa-bonus mo na rin kasi
bugnutin s'ya 'nung wala ka." He smiled.
Napatikhim si Rai at nakita ko ang pasimple n'yang siko sa bodyguard.
I smirked. Kumapit ako sa braso ni Rai at nagsalita.
"Alright," I chuckled. "Kawawa naman itong macho dancer kong engineer at baka
may magibang building kasi hindi makapag-focus."
Rai eyed me sharply, humagalpak naman ako at sumulyap kay Lando.
"Salamat, Lando. Maaga ako uuwi bukas." I said.
"Walang problema, Ma'am. Ako bahala." He smiled.
Kaya habang nasa byahe ay halos itapon na ako ni Rai sa daan sa pang-aasar ko.
 "Oh, I love that move, Rai! Bet na bet ko 'yung paggiling mo!" I exclaimed.
"Sera..." He warned.
"Saan mo natutunan 'yun, galing mo ah? Parang doon sa magic mike!" I said,
chuckling.
His forehead creased, nilingon ako roon.
"What's that?"
"Show 'yun na may mga gwapo at machong mga lalaking sumasayaw sa stage tapos
may babae sa gitna--"
"You're fucking going to the kind of shows, Serafine?!" He exclaimed loudly.
Mas napatawa ako, humagalpak ako roon at pumalakpak.

"Ang ga-gwapo ng mga lalaki doon--"

"Saan 'yan?" Dumiin ang hawak n'ya sa manibela. I grinned. "Serafine Veronica!"
"Basta..." Tawa ko. "Grabe, nakapantalon lang 'yun sila tapos may kurbata sa
leeg."
"Where the fuck is that?" Aniya. "Tell me."
I shrugged and licked my lips.
Kahit dumating na kami sa building ng unit n'ya ay busangot ang kanyang mukha
at walang tigil na nagtatanong kung anong location ng sinasabi ko.
"Bakit ka ba tanong ng tanong? Ano, bet mo rin talaga mag-macho dancer?" I
asked. "Bet ko 'yung paggiling mo kanina tapos 'yung pag-ikot 'nung kamay mo sa
ere."
Nakita ko ang paglingon sa amin ng mga tao sa elevator. I bit my lip, nang
sulyapan ko si Rai ay mariin na s'yang nakapikit at namumula ang mukha.
"Opps," I whispered.
Kaya habang naglalakad patungonsa unit n'ya ay busangot s'ya at ako nama'y
kumakapit para hindi lang maiwan.
"Rai...daddy, pansinin mo na ako." I hummed.
"Tell me where the hell is that place!" Aniya at pumasok sa kanyang unit.
I pouted, napabitaw ako sa kanya nang makitang may kulay pink na bunny slippers
doon katabi ng itim na tsinelas n'ya.
He stopped after wearing his slippers, naramdaman sigurong napabitaw ako sa
hawak ko sa kanya.
He came back, kinuha ang kamay ko at ibinalik sa pagkakahawak sa braso n'ya.
"What's the matter?" He asked.
I quietly pointed the slippers, nakita kong napasulyap s'ya roon at kumunot ang
noo.
"Why? Wear it, that's yours." Aniya.
My eyes widen, hinarap ko s'ya, gulat pero tumikhim lang s'ya at nag-iwas ng
tingin.
Excited kong sinuot iyon, kumapit muli hanggang sa marating namin ang sala
n'ya. I saw a large box of pizza and soda infront.
Naupo s'ya roon. Tumabi ako kaagad sa kanya at malaking ngumiti.
"Suplado naman," I murmured.
"I'm tired, Serafine." Reklamo n'ya.
"Yan! Kakagiling mo 'yan kanina!" I teased.
Sinamaan n'ya ako ng tingin, humagalpak naman ako at lumuhod sa dulo para
ayusin ang kanyang buhok. I brushed it with my fingers, unti-unti kong hinawakan
ang noo n'ya kaya nawala ang pagkakakunot 'nun.
"We can't think of any other way to enter the damn party," Ngiwi n'ya.
I chuckled, cupping his cheek and pinching it.
"Na-miss kita, Rai." I said.
"Yeah?" He raised his brow. "Ilang araw mo nga ako natiis, tatakasan mo pa
ako."
"Naiinis lang kasi ako," I confessed. Napaayos s'ya ng upo sa sinabi ko at
pinagmasdan akong magsalita.
"Did I do something? Did I annoy you?" Aniya.
 Hindi kaagad ako nagsalita, nagkatitigan kami at nakita kong umigting ang
kanyang panga.
"I knew it, you got scared because of the damn confession." He murmured. "I
shoudn't have done that."
I chuckled, shaking my head a bit.
"Hindi naman 'dun," I said. "Wala lang...parang mabilis kasi, 'nung nakaraan ay
nag-uusap lang tayo tungkol sa nakita ko tapos...ito."

Napatitig s'ya sa akin, I noticed how his eyes turned a bit

gloomy. Kahit na madilim ang ilaw ay nakita ko ang pagbakas ng lungkot n'ya roon.
"Is that so..." He murmured. "I'm sorry if...if I keep on pushing myself to
you, I like you, Sera, but if you don't then, I will try to understand."
Kumalabog ang puso ko, nakita ko ang lungkot sa kanya at naramdaman ko ang
sakit sa puso ko roon. My stomach churned, tila nagkakagulo ang mga halimaw roon.
He licked his lip, avoiding my gaze.
"I also understand that you don't want to stay here, I'm sorry, ihahatid kita
sa inyo." Nagitla ako nang tumayo s'ya, sinuklay ang kanyang buhok gamit ang daliri
at dumiretso para kunin ang susi ng sasakyan pero mabilis akong napatayo roon.
"I like you too, Rai!" I said bravely.
I saw him stopped.
Huminga naman ako ng malalim bago marahang nagtungo sa kanyang direksyon.
Slowly, I wrapped my arms on his waist from the back, my forehead pressed on his
skin.
"I like you too...so much. Kahit mabilis, I've never felt so safe and
comfortable with someone like this before.
Narinig ko ang malalim n'yang paghinga sa sinabi ko.
"No one...no one cared for me like how you took care of me. Gustong-gusto ko
'yun, pero natatakot ako." Bulong ko. "I am really scared that one day, you'll find
someone better than me and you'll get rid of me."
"Do you think I can do that to you?" He whispered painfully.
I sighed, naramdaman ko ang marahan n'yang pagpihit at hinapit ang baywang ko
palapit sa kanya.
I rested my face near his neck and I felt his breath touched my ear.
"Ayokong madamay ka sa gulo ng buhay ko, Serafine." Bulong n'ya. "Pero mas
ayokong lalayo ka ng ganun lang, I play a lot with girls before but I know this
one's different."
Tahimik ko s'yang niyakap at hindi umimik.
"I know you have a lot of problems para isama pa ako sa buhay mo," Bulong n'ya.
"But please, Sera, if you have a problem, isama mo naman ako."
Hindi ako umimik roon at humigpit lang ang hawak ko sa kanya. Nangingilid ang
luha ko pero ayaw kong makita n'yang umiiyak ako.
Ayokong maging mahina lalo na sa harapan n'ya.
"Kaya ko naman ang mga problema," Mahinang bulong ko.
"I know you're a strong woman, baby." He whispered. "But even the strongest
person has its weakness, nandito naman ako, kapag hindi mo na kaya pwede kang
sumandal sa akin kahit kailan."
"Kaya ko, Rai." Nanghihinang bulong ko.
"I can listen if you need someone to listen, I can help you." Bulong n'ya at
hinaplos ang buhok ko. "Just remember that whatever you're feeling now, if ever you
feel alone and lonely, I'm just here for you."
My tear fell.
Maybe the world is so cruel to me that genuine kindness makes me cry.
Hindi kami umimik pagkatapos 'nun, pasimple kong pinunasan ang luha ko para
hindi n'ya makita.
Sumulyap kaagad ako sa kanya pagkatapos at ngumiti ng totoo.
"Thank you for making me feel better," I said and smiled.
I tiptoed and kissed his cheek, humaplos ang kamay n'ya sa aking baywang at
tumungo para hagkan ang noo ko.
"Let's watch a movie?" Aniya at hinawakan ang kamay ko.
"I'd like that,"
We watched a romantic-comedy film, habang kumakain ng pizza roon ay nasa may
likuran ko si Rai at nasa pagitan ako ng kanyang hita.
I felt him caressing my arm, kanina ko pa napapansing tumititig s'ya roon kaya
nilingon ko s'ya.
"Hmm? Why?" I asked.
He tilted his head, inawang ang labi kaya nilapit ko sa kanya ang pizza at
kinagat n'ya iyon.
"Your bruise here..." Turo n'ya sa kaliwang braso ko.
"Magaling na," I said. "Nilagyan ko ng yelo gaya 'nung sabi mo."
He nodded, ibinaba n'ya ang kaliwang braso ko at natigilan ako nang pumalit ang
hawak n'ya sa kanan.
"Then, why is there another bruise in your right arm?" He asked.
I gasped, napasulyap ako roon at nakita ang kaunting bakas ng pasa ko nitong
nakaraan nung na-ospital si Miggy.
Hindi na masyadong kita ito! Paanong napansin pa n'ya?
"Nabangga kasi naglinis ako sa bodega," I lied.
Hindi finger graze on the skin of my arm gracefully, tila papel iyong
humahaplos at kumalabog ang puso ko nang makitang ibinaba n'ya ang ulo para
marahang halikan ang nawawalang bakas ng pasa.
"Rai..." I murmured.
"Let me get some ice," He said and stood.
Pinagmasdan ko s'yang nagtungo sa kusina at napahawak ako sa nagwawalang puso.
Why are you like that, Rai? Why are you making my heart beat this fast?
Lumabas s'ya. Nang maabutan akong nakatitig sa hubad n'yang pang-itaas dahil
ang maong lang ang kanyang suot ay tumaas ang kilay n'ya sa akin.
"No macho dancing for tonight," He said.
I laughed, naupo s'ya sa tabi ko at marahang inabot n'ya ang braso ko at
pinaraan doon ang ice pack.
I bit my lip while watching him, nang magkatinginan kaming dalawa ay umusog
s'ya sa akin at marahang inabot ang baywang ko.
I gasped when he effortlessly put me on his lap, hawak n'ya ang baywang ko at
pinaparaan ang yelo sa braso. He is slowly massaging it, masuyo at puno ng pag-
iingat ang galaw.
Bumaling ako sa TV at natawa sa scene at naramdaman ko ang pagdiin ng kanyang
dibdib sa likuran ko dahil sa pagpatong n'ya ng ice pack sa lamesa.
"Tapos na?" I asked.
He nodded, still caressing my arm and slowly kissed it again, gently.
I smiled, mas sumandal ako sa kanya at dinama ang init ng kanyang katawan.
"Why are you kissing my arm, daddy?" I asked.
He hummed, marahang yumakap s'ya sa baywang ko at bumulong.
"Just hoping my kiss would take away the pain," He said softly.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 10

Kabanata 10
What am I doing? Anong gagawin na namin?
Nanuyo ata ang lalamunan ko habang nag-aantay kay Rai na matapos magshower.
Really... Bakit ba ako dito natulog?
Well, it's not the first time I went here to sleep but I am sane now! Hindi ako
lasing!
Malakas ang pagkabog ng puso ko, para ata akong maamong tupa naka-indian sit sa
kanyang kama.
 The lights are dim, mahina ang volume ng TV at sa isang bahagi ng kwarto ay
nakaparte ang kulay puting kurtina sa isang pintuan sliding patungo sa labas kung
saan tanaw ang ilaw sa ibaba ng mga establishment.
The place is obviously owned by an architect, no doubt.
It's a combinationation of black, gray and white. High-ceiling walls, may mga
abstract painting rin akong nakita sa loob.
Halo man ang kulay ay litaw na litaw ang kulay itim, in a classic and manly
style, this room suits him really well. Sa isang pinto ay ang bathroom at ang isang
salaming pinto ay patungo sa kanyang walk-in-closet.
I stood, marahang nagtungo sa may bookshelf sa gilid malapit sa balcony. Sa
pagtayo ko ay umabot sa aking hita ang itim na shirt n'yang pinahiram sa akin
ngayon.
I check his shelf, running my fingers on the engineering and architectural
books available for reading.
Inabot ko ang isa roon at pinasadahan ng tingin, isa itong libro na gustong
ipabili sa amin ng mga professor pero hindi ko pa ata mabibili sa ngayon.
The bathroom door opened, sa paglingon ko ay napahigpit ang aking hawak sa
libro.
Rai went out of the bathroom, still wet. Nakahubad ang kanyang pang-itaas at
tanging ang boxers lang ang suot.
His hair is still wet, may nakapatong na twalyang puti roon.
Nang magkatinginan kami ay kaagad akong nag-iwas ng tingin at tumikhim, nag-
iinit ang pisngi at pinipilit na kumalma mula sa paghaharumentado ng puso.
Nagkunwari akong okupado sa ginagawa at natigilan lang nang maramdaman ang
bahagyang paghawak ni Rai sa baywang ko.
"What is it?" He whispered.
Napalunok ako, ramdam ang init ng kanyang katawan sa aking likod.
"Uh, nagbabasa lang." I chuckled a bit, raising the book I am pretending to
read.
"Maganda?" He asked.
"O-Oo, interesting." I murmured.
"You got a special talent, huh?" He whispered.
"H-Huh?" Gulong napasulyap ako sa kanya
He chuckled deeply, taking the book and shifting its position.
"Baligtad ang libro, Serafine." Natatawang bulong n'ya.
Napatulala ako, natawa naman s'ya at marahang hinawi ang buhok ko at yumakap sa
likuran ko.
"You can take it home, I heard from Engr. Magkaya that you need that?" Aniya.
"Sana...pero hindi pa kasi ako nakakabili." I said.
"Take it," Aniya. "It's yours now, I don't really need that."
"Ganun ba?" Sumulyap ako sa libro pabalik sa kanya at napangiti. "Thank you,
Rai."
He nodded, nang gumalaw akonay bahagya n'ya akong pinakawalan pero sumunod rin
sa akin. Nagtungo ako sa isang lamesa doon sa gilid.
Nakita ko ang iilang papel roon kaya kinuha ko iyon at bahagyang tinignan,
napabilog pa ang bibig ko nang makita ang pangalan ko sa pinakauna kaya nilingon ko
si Rai na napanguso at dinungaw ako.

"That's your diagnostic exam," He said.

I nodded, laughing a bit. Sumulyap ako sa score ko at nakitang hindi man
masyadong mataas ay pasado, kaunting diperensya lang sa passing.
"Kinakalawang na ata ako," Tawa ko at dinala ang ang test bago umupo sa kama.
He sat beside me, pinagmamasdan akong tinitignan ang papel ko.
"Which part do you find hard?" He asked.
I quickly gaze on his boxers and found his protruding bulge.
"Serafine!" Tinulak n'ya ang noo ko kaya napahagalpak ako ng tawa at
pinagmasdan s'ya.
 "I did not say anything!" I exclaimed, chuckling.
He eyed me sharply, ngumuso ako at ibinaba ang tingin sa boxers n'ya.
"Nagtatanong ka kasi kung saan 'yung hard kaya--"
"What I mean is the test, Sera!" He groaned.
His eyes are sharp yet I noticed his uneasiness and  burning gaze.
"Why? Pati rin naman 'yung susi ng tagumpay..." Nguso ko.
Napatili ako nang batuhin n'ya ako ng unan, tumama iyon sa mukha ko kaya
napasinghap ako.
"Vioxx!" I groaned.
He laughed, inabot ko ang binato n'yang unan sa akin at hinagis sa kanya
pabalik pero mabilis s'yang nakaiwas.
"Isa!" I exclaimed, muling nag-abot ng unan sa tabi ko at hinagis sa kanya pero
nasalo n'ya lang at mabilis na hinagis sa akin.
Sumapol iyon sa mukha ko kaya natumba ako sa kama n'ya.
"Huh! Weak!" Hagalpak n'ya.
Naupo ako sa kama, sinamaan s'ya ng tingin at nang tumayo ako ay umamba s'yang
tatakbo.
"You jerk!" Sigaw ko at nagmura s'ya nang habulin ko s'ya.
Paikot-ikot kami sa kwarto n'ya, sumusubok akong mahuli s'ya pero hindi ko
magawa dahil sa laki ng hakbang n'ya kumpara sa akin!
"Yari ka sa'kin!" Sigaw ko.
He ran, nang halos maabutan ko s'ya ay inangat ko ang aking paa at sinipa ang
pang-upo n'ya. He cursed and advanced, mas napatawa ako nang matisod s'ya roon sa
kalokohan.
Doon ko na s'ya naabutan, I swiftly pinched his waist and pulled his hair.
Napasinghap s'ya roon.
"Fuck! Fuck, ouch, baby!" He exclaimed.
"Tinamaan 'yung ilong kong gungong ka!" Galaiti ko at nairita.
Tumawa s'ya, napasigaw-sigaw pa roon sa ginawa ko bago biglang umikot paharap
sa akin.
That startled me, mabilis n'yang nahuli ang baywang ko paharap at bahagya
s'yang tumungo kaya nagtagpo ang mata namin.
My heart quickened, marahas akong napalunok nang makita ang pagkislap ng
tsokolate n'yang mga mata. He licked his lower lip sensually, smirking at me.
"Cat got your tongue, baby girl?" He asked huskily.
I groaned. Walang pakundangang inangat ang isang palad padapo sa kanyang noo
bago inangat ang isa pang kamay para paluin ang noo n'ya.
"Fuck!" Sigaw n'ya at napaatras.
I laughed, parang batang humalukipkip s'ya, masama ang tingin sa akin.
"I quit being your sugar daddy, Serafine!" He hissed.
My lip twitched.
"Ano 'yan, trabaho? Of course not, hindi ako papayag." Ngisi ko.

Hindi s'ya gumalaw, nakahalukipkip na nakatingin sa akin

kaya natawa na ako sa tantrums n'ya.
I shook my head, walking a bit on his direction.
Hindi s'ya gumalaw at nakatingin lang, marahang humawak ako sa kanyang hubad na
balikat at marahang tinulak s'ya hanggang sa mapaupo s'ya sa kanyang kama.
"I won't fire you, daddy." Nguso ko.
Suplado s'yang umirap. Oh, how adorable!
Nakatitig lang s'ya sa akin, iritado, lalo na nang inabot ko ang kanyang twalya
sa kama at mabilis na kumandong sa kanya paharap.
I felt him froze when I did that, nang magkatinginan kami ay kinindatan ko
s'ya.
He reddened immediately and looked away, bumungisngis ako at hinaplos ang
kanyang panga.
"Sus...wawa naman ang baby na 'yan." Lambing ko.
 His lip moved a bit, umayos naman ako ng kandong paharap sa kanya at inangat
ang twalya para tuyuin ang kanyang buhok.
"Daddy ko," I called.
"Daddy-daddy pang nalalaman, tatawaging baby tapos..." Bulong-bulong n'ya.
"Oh, edi baby muna kita ngayon." Suyo ko. I caressed his forehead and slowly
kissed it. Nanigas s'ya roon at naramdaman ko ang epekto nito sa kanya kaya mas
ginanahan ako.
"It's nice calling someone baby pala 'no?" Salita ko nang maibaba ko ang twalya
at sinuklay ang kanyang buhok ng daliri ko.
Hindi s'ya umimik.
"Ang daddy ko parang baby damulag," I said, teasing.
Bahagya s'yang gumalaw, muntik na akong mawalan ng balanse sa hita n'ya pero
mabilis n'yang nahawakan ang baywang ko para sa suporta.
"Careful," He hissed.
I grinned, sinilip ko ang kanyang mukha.
"Bati na tayo?" Maamo kong tanong.
Umirap s'ya, napangisi naman ako roon.
"Come closer, baka malaglag ka." Tinulak pa n'ya ang baywang ko palapit sa
kanyang katawan.
"Concern..." Hawak ko sa panga n'ya at pilit na sumisilip.
"Tss," He hissed. "Comb my damn hair again with your fingers, Serafine!" Utos
n'ya.
I laughed, nodding and ran my fingers again on his hair, brushing his scalp
softly.
Ang bango-bango naman ng engineer! Amoy na amoy ko ang shower gel at aftershave
n'yang gamit!
I can't help but to sniff his neck, nakita kong natigil s'ya roon pero
supladong hindi namansin.
"Bango mo naman, daddy." Bulong ko at pinaraan ang aking ilong sa kanyang leeg.
My hand fell on his shoulder, hinaplos ko ang balat n'ya at marahang nagdampi
ng halik sa kanyang leeg.
"Sera..." He warned, humigpit ang kanyang hawak sa baywang ko.
"Hmm, yes, daddy?" I hummed, bumaba ang kamay ko sa kanyang dibdib at marahang
hinaplos ang manipis na balahibo roon.
"Stop..."
"Stop what?" I licked his neck and gave it a small, teasing bite.
"Stop," He said without conviction.
I felt the burning feeling inside, bumilis ang kanyang paghinga at unti-unting
pumasok ang kamay sa shirt ko.
I lick his neck up, giving him a kiss and suck his skin.

"Hmm..." He moaned.
"You like it, huh, daddy?" I whispered.
"Yes," He breathe.
Natigilan ako nang maramdaman ko ang pagkalas ng lock ng bra ko sa likod at ang
haplos n'ya sa likod ko.
I sucked the skin of his neck, mas lumalim ang kanyang paghinga.
"Baby..." Bulong n'ya at unti-unting kong naramdaman ang pagdampi ng halik n'ya
sa aking leeg.
"Y-Yes, Rai?"
"I might lose my fucking control," He groaned lowly.
I chuckled, licking his ear.
"Then lose it," I whispered sensually pero nawala rin sa ere ang boses nang
maramdaman ang kanyang kamay sa dibdib ko.
My breath hitched when he cupped my breast, his finger gently caressing my bud.
A soft moan escape my lips, moving my hips on his growing bulge.
"Fuck, baby..." Humawak s'ya sa baywang ko.
 "Hmm," My body was immediately consumed with heat and lust that I've never felt
with anyone before.
Para akong sinisilaban sa init, ang daliri n'ya sa aking dibdib ay dumaan
pabalik-balik sa aking tuktok.
I gasped when I felt him growing bigger and bigger, mas pinaraan ko ang sarili
ko sa umbok n'ya at napahalinghing nang maramdamang mas grabe ang epekto sa akin.
He kissed, nipped and sucked my neck, his one hand tilting my head to claim my
lips.
I moved my hips, dry humping his protruding bulge.
Our tongues fought, my lips parted and my fingers tangled on his hair, pushing
it everytime he'll touch my peak.
"Fuck, baby..." He cursed, bumaba ang hawak n'ya sa aking baywang at dumiin
doon.
I closed my eyes and buried my face on his neck, dry humping and feeling the
pressure it gave the both of us.
"I might fucking cum in my clothes, baby..." Bulong n'ya.
I smiled, mas kumapit ako sa kanyang leeg at naramdaman ang pamumuo ng kung ano
sa aking puson.
Lumalim ang paghinga ko, inalalayan n'ya ang aking baywang sa paggalaw sa hita
n'ya. I moved my hips more to tease his member, I felt it pulsating against the
clothes in between.
Tila napapaso ako sa kuryete at init na nararamdaman, humalik ako sa balikat ni
Rai at pagod na bumulong.
"I-I'm gonna cum, Rai..." I whispered.
"Go on, baby..." He whispered, pushing his member more on my sensitive and
pulsating spot.
A loud moan escape my lips and I bit his shoulder when I felt myself
convulsing, naramdaman ko ang init sa parteng iyon ng katawan ko at nanghihinang
napasinghap ako at napasubsob sa kanyang leeg pagkatapos.
Wala kaming imik na dalawa, I can feel the heat in between my legs underneath
my underwear.
Tanging malalim naming paghinga ang naririnig at naramdaman ko ang pagyakap ni
Rai sa akin at marahang paghalik sa ulo ko.
"Feeling fine now?" Masuyong bulong n'ya.
Napapikit ako ng mariin, nag-iinit ang pisngi sa ginawa at narinig ko ang
pagtawa n'ya ng mahina nang marinig ang mahina kong pagmumura.
"That was hot, baby." Bulong n'ya at mahinang humalakhak.
"Asshole," I slapped his arm he and kissed my head, slowly pushing me slowly.

Our eyes met, nahihiyang nag-iwas ako ng tingin sa

kahihiyan at nakita ko ang pagngiti n'ya. He cupped my cheek, moved my head a bit
so he can kiss me slowly on the lips.
"May pinabili akong damit mo," Aniya. "Change, baby and let's rest."
Napatitig ako sa kanya at kinagat ang labi ko.
"I-I'm sorry...I, fuck, Rai. I-I was feeling so hot." I whispered, shyly.
He nodded, a smile on his lips showing.
"Me too, baby." He chuckled. "I was fucking horny,"
Nagkatitigan kaming dalawa, unti-unting bumaba ang tingin ko sa kanyang boxers
at napangiwi nang pitikin n'ya ang noo ko.
"Daddy, joke lang kanina na hard pero ngayon totoo na." I attempted to touch
his part pero napasinghap ako nang hulihin n'ya ang kamay ko at inilagay sa
likuran.
"No touching..." He warned.
"Why?" I asked innocently. "A-Ako nakaano tapos 'yung susi ng tagumpay mo
hindi--"
"Oh, stop with the key thing!" Ngiwi n'ya kaya tumawa ako ng malakas.
He shook his head, napatawa ako nang patayuin n'ya ako sa kanyang kandungan at
basta nalang akong binuhat at pinasok sa banyo at pinaupo sa bath tub.
"Take a shower again, Sera." Aniya at sumulyap sa hita ko. "You're dripping
wet."
Lumobo ang pisngi ko sa hiya at napalunok ng marahas, sumulyap ako sa kanya at
nakita ko at pasimple n'yang pagtakip roon ng kamay n'ya.
"Rai--"
"I know, woman. I know." He shook his head.
"Pero Rai, unfair naman kung--"
"Come on, baby. Stop making it hard--"
"Eh, hard na nga!" I said.
"Fuck?" He cursed and closed his eyes tightly, pointing me.
"Stay there, clean yourself and be a good baby girl. I'll go down to take a
cold shower." Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"I can take care of you too--
Tumalikod s'ya, bago pa ako matapos sa sasabihin ay tinakpan na n'ya ang tenga
at tinakbo ang pintuan sa banyo palabas.
I was almost gasping the next few days after I took Miggy to school when I
received an email for an intership opportunity.
Napatitig ako sa nabasa at biglang napatawa sa tuwa nang matantong ang e-mail
ay galing sa Miranda Architecture and Engineering Corp.
The email written is about a schedule interview for engineering intership
applicants! Nalaman kong nagpasa ng recommended students ang school sa firm nila
Rai at nakasama ako sa mga aplikante!
Kaya sa klase, samu't-saring usapan ang aking narinig tungkol sa mga intership
sites na nakuha nila. I saw a few from our block who got in, nakasama ko rin si
Marco roon!
Some is still bothered dahil wala pang natatanggap na email, mapalad lang
siguro ako at nakakuha kaagad ako kagaya 'nung iba!
Inayos ko ang aking resume at mga requirements sa mga sumunod na araw para sa
aking interview sa HR sa firm nila Rai.
Bumili ako ng pormal na damit para doon sa okasyon gamit ang kaunting natira sa
inaayos naming operasyon ni Miggy.
Turns out Tatay saved money too, hindi man kalakihan pero malaki na ang tulong.
Ang problema nalang namin ay ang mga gamot dahil may maintenance pa si Tatay at ang
kapatid ko.

Si Nanay ay hindi napilit ni Tatay na magtrabaho, wala

naman na akong reklamo doon dahil t'wing maaga ang uwi ko ay nagsa-sideline ako kay
Ma'am Asunta na ubod ng bait sa pagtanggap pa rin sa akin.
Nanay was well, still the same, hindi nga lang kami masyadong nagkakasagutan
dahil sa mukhang natatakot rin s'ya sa kalagayan ni Miggy kapag narinig kami.
Palagi pa rin s'yang nagdadala ng sugal sa bahay kapag wala kami nina Tatay ay
ayaw ko na tanungin kung paano s'ya may ipinangbabayad roon.
Rai told me a few days ago that he will be gone here for a while because of a
project in Manila, may kailangan s'yang asikasuhin roon kaya mag-isa ako kasama ang
sumusunod na si Lando palagi.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Sorry but I don't know if I can make it to your interview, baby.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Ayos lang, ano ka ba. Focus on your work, keri ko 'to sa HR.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
I know you can do it, baby ko pa ba? :-*
I giggled.
"Ma'am, samahan ko po ba kayo sa HR?"
"H'wag na," Nilingon ko si Lando na nakatayo sa gilid ko pagkapasok namin sa
firm. "Medyo weird kasing bodyguard kita, baka magtaka ang mga kaklase ko."
He nodded and smiled.
 "Safe naman po kayo dito sa building, Ma'am." Aniya.
I nodded and smiled.
"Oo naman, ano ka ba." Tawa ko. "Text nalang kita kapag tapos na ang interview,
sa HR lang naman. Ikot-ikot ka muna, kain ka."
"Sige po, antayin kita dita." Aniya at bahagyang yumukod. "Goodluck, Ma'am
Sera!" He cheered.
I chuckled, nodding a bit.
"Thank you,"
Sumulyap ako sa oras at kinse minutos akong maaga para sa interview sa itaas.
My phone vibrated, napansin kong nakaparte ang mga tao sa pinto ng elevator
pero wala namang masyadong tao sa loob.
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Are you busy now? Wala akong kiss? :(
Natawa ako, dire-diretsong naglakad sa pagitan ng mga tao habang nakatungo sa
phone.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Sorry na, oh, ito na 'yung kiss ng daddy ko :-*
From: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Sarap naman ng kiss! :-*
Naramdaman ko ang pagsara ng elavator pero walang kahit sinong pumasok.
To: Papa dè asukal / Daddy
Magtrabaho ka na! Bad daddy!
Isang tikhim ang nagpabalik sa akin sa katinuan, nagtatakang napatingin ako sa
likuran at kaagad na natigilan nang makita ang tatlong babae doon, isang babaeng
naka-corporate, sa tabi nito ay ang pamilyar na matangkad na babaeng singkit.
My eyes shifted in the middle and my eyes widened when I saw a sophisticated
woman in her early or late 50's.
She's fair, wearing a deep black dress and her hair is in a majestic and classy
updo.
"Sino ka?" Isang malamig na tanong n'ya palang habang nakanganga ako sa kanila
ang nagpatigil sa akin.
"P-Po?"
She isn't looking at me, walang emosyong nakatitig s'ya sa repleksyon namin sa
elevator.
"Sino ka?" Diin n'ya.
"Uhm, Sera--"
"Who gave you the right to ride the elevator with us?" Biglang singit ng
babaeng singkit roon.

"P-Po?"
"Donya Angelita Miranda, the company's chairwoman is here, sino ka para sumabay
sa amin sa elevator?" She asked sharply.
Kinabahan ako kaagad roon.
"S-Sorry po!" I panicked. "Hindi ko alam, pasensya na po." Bahagya akong
tumungo at humingi ng dispensa.
Walang umimik at halos magwala na ang puso ko sa kaba.
"I-Intern po kasi...may ano po, interview lang po sa HR sa engineering interns,
w-wala po akong ideya--"
"Don't you know the organizational chart of this firm?" The lady with the
chinky eyes asked.
"A-Alam po, kaso hindi ko lang talaga napansin." I confessed.
The sophisticated woman still look stern, walang imik pa ring nakatingin sa
elevator. The woman in corporate attire remained silent, tanging 'yung singkit lang
ang nagsasalita.
"Tita, we should never accept interns like this! Hindi pa nga intern boba na!"
She exclaimed.
"M-Ma'am..." I cleared my throat and lowered my head. "Pasensya na po, hindi ko
po talaga napansin, sorry po."
Shit, damn, Serafine! Anong ginagawa mo?!
The elevator door opened, naunang lumabas 'yung chairwoman kasunod ang dalawa.
Mabilis akong humabol, humihingi ng dispensa.
"Ma'am, pasensya na po--"
"Make a coffee," Bigla n'yang sabi kaya natigilan ako.
"P-Po?"
"Kape raw!" The woman with chinky eyes exclaimed.
"O-Okay po, saan po ako kukuha?" Nagpapanic kung sabi, parang naiiyak na sa
kaba.
I really have no idea!
The chairwoman didn't look back and continued walking, nilingon ako ng babae na
singkit at tinuro ang kung saan.
"Sa pantry! Stupid!" She exclaimed in my face, mabilis akong iniwan para
sumunod sa dalawa.
Nagmamadali akong nagtungo sa tinurong pantry, walang kahit sinong tao kaya
wala akong mapagtanungan.
Ano? Paano 'to? Anong kape?!
I panicked. Sinubukan kong tignan ang coffee maker at ang burong kape pero wala
akong ideya para gamitin iyon!
I glanced at my wrist and noticed that I only have five minutes before my
interview!
Nanginginig ako habang nag-iisip, sinubukang buksan ang coffee maker pero hindi
ako marunong.
Wala sa sariling napasulyap ako sa gilid at may nakitang three-in-one na kape,
wala sa sariling pinuntahan ko iyon at kumuha ng isa.
I took a disposable cup and poured it there. Saglit ko iyong hinalo at mabilis
na tinakpan bago tinakbo ang opisina ng chairwoman.
Lord, late na ako!
Halos maiyak na ako roon, nang sabihin ng naka-corporate na secretary pala na
nasa loob at ipasok na roon ang kape ay mabilis akong kumatok at pumasok.
I immediately saw the woman with chinky eyes sitting on the chair infront of
the table. Sa swivel ay naroon ang chairwoman.
"G-Good morning po," I said.
Walang-imik roon, tahimik itong tumingin sa papel sa lamesa at 'yung isa lang
ang nakataas ang kilay sa akin at mukhang nanunuya.
"Alice, napa-schedule mo na ba ang materyales doon sa site sa Manila?" The
chairwoman asked.

"Yes, Tita." She smiled sweetly.

Tahimik kong nilagay ang baso ng kape sa gilid ng lamesa.
"I-Ito na po," I said.
She didn't even glance at me, nakagat ko ang labi at napasulyap doon sa Alice
na nakasimangot lang sa akin.
"Ma'am, pasensya na po ulit, sorry po. Kailangan ko na po umalis para sa
interview." I said gently.
Walang umimik, tanging ang babae lang na isa ang umirap sa akin.
I smiled, humbly lowered my head again and turned my back. Marahan akong
naglakad palabas pero kaagad na natigilan sa isang mariin at galit na boses.
"What the hell is this?!" She exclaimed.
Mabilis akong napalingon at nanlaki ang mata nang makita bukas na ang lid ng
kape at galit na galit ang tingin sa akin ng chairwoman.
"M-Ma'am..."
"Ano 'to?!"
"Kape po,"
"Stupid! Anong klaseng kape 'to?!" She groaned angrily.
Napatakbo ako roon at kinabahan.
 "Ma'am, hindi po ako kasi ako marunong gumamit ng coffee maker kaya 'yung
three-in-one--"
"Stupid!" She exclaimed.
Napasinghap ako nang itapon n'ya ang kape sa sahig at kumalat roon ang laman.
"M-Ma'am, sorry po--"
"Hindi pwede sa kompanyang ito ang estupida kagaya mo!" She exclaimed.
"Ma'am--"
She stormed out of the room, enraged. Umawang ang labi ko at napasinghap roon.
"Familiar ka," Ani 'nung Alice na biglang nagsalita at nakataas ang kilay.
Napasulyap ako sa kanya, nanghihina.
"P-Po?"
"Oh! You are Vioxx's stupid whore!" She suddenly laughed, taunting me.
"I'm not--"
"Iiwan ka rin 'nun," She smirked. "H'wag umasa, Miss. Basura ka lang."
Kumuyom ang kamay ko sa sinabi n'ya.
"Wala kang karapatan pagsalitaan ako ng ganyan." Mariing sinabi ko pero tumawa
lang s'ya at umirap.
"Oh, anyway, linisin mo 'yung kape sa sahig. Baka magalit ang mommy ni Vioxx."
Ngisi n'ya at lumabas ng opisina para iwan ako.
Nanginig ako sa panghihina, huminga ako ng malalim para kumalma at sumulyap sa
orasan ko at nakitang huli na ako sa interview.
Naiiyak ako pero umiling ako at bumulong.
"Kaya mo yan, Serafine."
I nodded, mabilis akong kumuha ng pamunas at lumuhod sa sahig para punasan ang
nagkalat na kape.
Mabilis ko iyong nilinis at halos takbuhin ang HR para sa interview.
"Miss, ako po 'yung Serafine Mendez." I said, catching my breath.
The lady glanced at me, confused with my look and looked at the screen.
"Late ka na, Miss Mendez." Masungit n'yang sabi.
"M-Ma'am, sorry po kasi--"
"Next!" She exclaimed and called my other blockmate.
"Ma'am... Naipit lang po ako sa sitwasyon, nautusan ng chairwoman--"
"Tama na, Miss. Late ka na, kahit ano pang dahilan mo, late ka na." Aniya na
iritado sa akin.
Nangilid ang luha ko pero desperado akong makapag-intern dahil maganda ang
magiging credentials ko kapag dito ako nag-intern! I wanted to train here so bad!
"Ma'am, hindi ko naman po ginusto, nautusan lang po ako--"
"Be punctual!" She almost screamed in my face. "Paanong tatanggapin ka kung
mismong interview ay late ka?"
"Ma'am, baka pwedeng kahit pagkatapos nalang nilang lahat--"
"Next!" She screamed.
Bumagsak ang balikat ko at mariing naipikit ang mata. Nanghihinang naglakad ako
sa may upuan doon, pinagtitinginan ng ibang aplikante rin.
I am so weak and discouraged, kagat-kagat ko lang ang labi ko para pigilan ang
luha.
"Sera," Nakita ko ang paglapit sa akin ni Marco. "Anong nangyari?"
I shook my head, smiling sadly at him.
"I can give you my spot--"
"No!" I exclaimed, shaking my head. "Get it, Marco. It's for you."
"But Sera--"
"Mr. Marco Flores?" Ani ng HR at nakita ko ang pagkabigo sa mata ni Marco at
ang pagbuntong-hininga.
"Sera..."
"Goodluck," I smiled sadly.
Tahimik akong naupo sa bench, nanghihina. Kuyom ko ang kamay ko at nakatungo
lang roon habang pinagmamasdan ang mga aplikanteng unti-unting nawawala at may mga
ngiti sa labi pagkalabas.
Maybe I should find another site, then.
Pakiramdam ko ay ang malas-malas ko, sa sobrang pagod at sakit na nararamdaman
sa mga sigaw na narinig ngayong araw ay nangilid na ang luha ko.
Pagod na pagod na ako.
I lowered my head and covered my face with my palm, pinikit ko ng mariin ang
aking mata at suminghap.
I suddenly felt a grip on my wrist, natigil ako at napamulat, may humila ng
aking mga kamay mula sa aking mukha at sa pagsulyap ko sa harapan ay mas nanghina
ako at nakahanap ng kakampi.
Nakaluhod ito sa harapan ko, hinahanap ang mga mata ko at nang magsalita s'ya
ay hindi ko na kinaya ang emosyon.
"What's the matter?" Masuyo n'yang tanong.
"R-Rai..." I murmured softly and a tear escaped my eyes. "P-Pagod na pagod na
ako, Rai."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 11

This is my last update for 2019! To more stories this 2020!

Happy New Year, my Archers! Thank you so much for being a part of my year. You guys
are the best! I love youuuu♥
xxx
Kabanata 11
"Baby..." He whispered and dried my tears.
Napapikit ako ng mariin ang suminghap bago hawakan ang kamay n'ya sa aking
pisngi.
"I'm fine," I whispered.
"What's the matter?" He whispered, touching my cheek.
I shook my head, lumayo ako sa kanyang hawak at pasimpleng pinunasan ang luha
ko.
"A-Ayos lang ako," I murmured, realizing how weak I look right now infront of
him.
Mabilis kong tumayo sa bench pero kaagad ding nakatayo si Rai at hinuli ang
siko ko at marahang hinawakan.
"Sera..." He murmured.
I saw the curious stare Lando is giving me, napansin ko ring nagtataka ang tao
sa paligid dahil sa nakikitang hawak ako ng boss nila.
"Ayos lang talaga," I smiled a bit, "N-Nanakit lang ang mata ko."
He stared at me deeply, alam kong hindi s'ya naniniwala sa sinasabi ko ngayon.
He held my arm, bahagya akong kumawa pero nahuli n'ya akong muli.
"Serafine," He called.
"Ayos lang ako, Rai." Mahinahon kong sabi, sa loob-loob ay gusto na lamang
s'yang yakapin.
"Sera! Baka pwede naman nating pakiusapan--" Napalingon ako at nakita ang
papalapit na si Marco na natigilan at bumagal ang lakad nang makita ang kasama ko.
"Engineer?" He called.
"Mr. Flores," Rai acknowledge him seriously.
Muling bumaling sa akin si Marco at nakita kong napatitig s'ya sa kamay ni Rai
sa braso ko kaya bahagya akong kumawala.
"Sera, may dahilan naman kung bakit na-late ka, diba? Pakiusapan nalang
natin--"
"You're late?" Rai suddenly asked.
I gasped a bit, humiwalay kay Rai pero kaagad n'yang hinuli ang baywang ko at
inilapit ako sa kanyang katawan.
"Yes, engineer, nakiusap si Sera sa HR kaso--"
"Marco," I warned. "Ayos lang ako."
"Sera..." Mahinahong tawag sa akin ni Rai.
"Rai, I swear, ayos lang nga ako--"
 "Serafine!" His voice roared. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang makita ang galit sa
mga mata n'ya sa asta ko.
"What the hell happened?" Mariing sabi n'ya.
I sighed. Nakita ko ang nagtatakang tingin sa akin ni Marco pero hindi s'ya
nagkomento.
"I...was just late." I murmured.
"And you failed to go to the interview?" His forehead creased.
"Yes," I almost whispered.
He closed his eyes, nodding before glancing at the woman in the HR who's
looking at us, confused.
Bumitaw s'ya sa akin, seryosong naglakad patungo sa babae roon kaya nagpanic
ako at mabilis s'yang hinabol.
"Rai!" I called.
Hindi s'ya lumingon, diretso ang lakad n'ya kaya mas binilisan ko ang lakad ko
at inabot ang kanya pulso.
Hindi manlang s'ya nadala sa hila ko, desidido pa ring makalapit doon.

"Ephraim!" I exclaimed.
He stopped. Narinig ko ang pagbagsak ng gamit kung saan at ang katahimikang
bumalot sa lugar.
I gasped and closed my eyes, sumulyap ako kay Rai na nagtatakang nakatingin na
sa akin.
I marched near him, hinila ko ang kanyang kamay kaya napaharap s'ya sa akin.
"What?" He asked hardly.
"Let's go," I said.
"I'm gonna talk to them--"
"No..." I shook my head.
"Why?" Takang tanong n'ya. "You need that damn interview, Serafine. I'm not
gonna stand here and do nothing!"
Napasulyap ako sa paligid, nakita ko ang tingin ng mga tao kaya kinagat ko ang
labi ko at marahang sumulyap kay Rai.
"Not now, please..." I murmured.
"Serafine--"
"Rai...please." I murmured weakly.
Tumitig s'ya sa akin, nang magkatinginan kami ay nakita ko ang galit sa mga
mata n'ya pero pumikit s'ya ng mariin at pilit na kumalma.
I saw his jaw clenched, hinaplos ko naman ang kamay n'ya para tulungan s'ya sa
pagkalma.
"We don't have to make a scene here, Rai." I murmured. "Let's talk outside."
He opened his eyes, his once annoyed brown eyes flickered, his hidden
frustration is so hard to vanish.
"Come on, baby..." Bulong ko.
Slowly, he nodded.
Nakahinga ako ng maluwang nang unti-unti n'yang hinawakan ang kamay ko at
marahan iyong pinagsaklop.
I glanced at it, umigting ang panga n'ya at marahang hinila ako palapit sa
kanya.
"Let's go." He said.
I smiled a bit, sumama ako sa kanya nang maglakad s'ya habang hawak ako. Hindi
na ako nakapagpaalam kay Marco nang madaanan s'ya dahil sa bilis ng lakad ni Rai.
Sumunod si Lando, s'ya na ang pumindot ng elevator at habang nandoon kami sa
loob ay nanatili akong tahimik.
I was biting my lower lip, sa pagsulyap ko sa elevator ay nahuli ko ang titig
ni Rai sa akin.
I tried smiling but he just shook his head at me.
"Stop pretending, Serafine." Malamig n'yang sabi.
Lando glanced at us, napatungo naman ako at napatitig nalang sa kamay namin ni
Rai.
Hanggang sa makarating kami ng ground floor ay bakas ko pa rin ang galit kay
Ephraim sa kabila ng pagpipigil n'ya.
He looks frustrated and annoyed.
Hawak n'ya ako palabas ng elevator patungo sa exit ng building pero kaagad
akong natigilan nang makita 'yung babaeng singkit na si Alice.
I froze. Abo't-abot ang naramdaman kong kaba nang magkatinginan kami.
I remembered her words, that I am Rai's whore. I remembered her scream at me
and how much I tried erasing it in my head, I just can't.
Naramdaman ko ang hapdi sa aking puso, I remembered the article I read about
Rai getting married soon to a certain Alice Tan after Akisha's death.
Desperately, I tried pulling my hand from Rai's grip.
He stopped, kunot-noo akong nilingon roon.
"W-We can walk without holding hands," I murmured and tried pulling away again
but his grip just tightened in my hand.

"R-Rai..."
"Shut up, Serafine." Mariing sabi n'ya.
He almost dragged me on the exit, kahit anong pilit ko ay ayaw n'yang pakawalan
ang hawak sa akin.
I saw how mad Alice is, matalim ang kanyang titig sa akin habang papalapit pero
alanganing nagpakita ng ngiti kay Rai.
"Hi, Vioxx!" She exclaimed and flashed a smile. "Kailan ang dinner natin--"
Walang-imik na dinaanan lang s'ya ni Rai. Umawang ang labi ko habang walang
pakialam si Ephraim at ang prioridad lang ay ang mailabas ako sa lugar na 'yun.
I glanced back and saw her frozen in place, nawala lang ang atensyon ko roon
nang makalabas kami at nasalubong kaagad ng valet.
"Engineer," Isang abot ng susi ay nasa harapan na ang sasakyan n'ya.
He opened the door for me, pumasok ako roon at nakita kong kinausap n'ya muna
si Lando bago pumasok sa sasakyan.
I immediately fixed my seatbelt, walang-imik naman n'yang pinaandar ang
sasakyan.
I sighed when I saw naot wearing his seatbelt, marahang tinanggal ko ang akin
bago marahang inabot ang seatbelt n'ya.
I saw him stunned for a while but remained silent, inayos ko ang seatbelt n'ya
bago ko ibalik ang sa akin.
I sighed, pasulyap-sulyap ako sa kanya na kunot ang noo at seryoso.
He looks tired, nilingon ko ang backseat at nakita doon ang kanyang travelling
bag.
"Kararating mo lang?" I asked.
"Yes," He said coldly.
I bit my lip, pinaglaruan ko ang daliri ko at muling sumulyap sa kanya.
"Akala ko ba hindi ka makakaabot?" I asked.
Mas umigting ang kanyang panga at humigpit ang hawak sa manibela.
"I was planning on surprising you but you surprised me instead."
"Huh?"
"I expected to see your smile the moment I came but no, instead of that smile,
I saw you crying, Serafine. Sinong hindi masusorpresa doon?" Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
Kumalabog ang puso ko, mariing napapikit ako at hinawakan ng mahigpit ang
seatbelt.
"I was late kasi..." Nag-iwas ako ng tingin. "Naligaw ako, nakalimutan ko kung
nasaan ang floor sa HR."
"What?" Nilingon n'ya ako, seryoso ang mga mata. "At hindi ka nila pinapasok
dahil roon?"
"I understand naman," I murmured. "Trabaho naman nila, Rai. I admit I am late,
masakit pero naiintindihan ko."
"I could have talk to them, Serafine." Mariing sabi n'ya.
 "No..." I said and shook my head. "Ayokong gumawa ng eksena, ayokong isipin
nilang nakapasok ako dahil sa tulong ng boss nila."
"You didn't get in because of me, Serafine." Aniya. "You got in because of your
skills, your university recommended you in my firm."
Ngumuso ako at sumulyap sa kanya.
"Talaga? Wala kang ginawa?"
Hindi s'ya umimik roon, mukhang guilty. Suminghap naman ako at tumitig pang
lalo.
"Rai?"
"Okay," He sighed. "I recommended you too but that's it. Desisyon pa rin ng
dean kung sinong ipapasok at labas ako roon."
"Sayang naman, it's nice knowing I'll have my intership with you sa firm mo
kaso..."
"There'll be a second batch of applicants," Aniya at sumulyap sa akin.

"As if makakapasok ako," I laughed a bit.

"You can get in, Sera." Aniya.
"Sa tulong mo?" I raised my brow. "Ayaw kong papuntahin ka at kausapin ang HR
kanina dahil baka magalit ka. Ayokong isipin ng mga empleyado mong may kinakampihan
ka."
"Wala akong kinakampihan, I only want to talk--"
"No, daddy. Kapag nagsalita ka kanina, I am sure they'll interview me. Ayoko ng
ganun, I wanted to get that interview because I deserve it and I have the skill. M-
Medyo malas lang kasi ano...naligaw."
"You can ace that interview, Sera." Aniya.
"Sana...kaso wala na." I shrugged but inside, I am so sad.
"You will get in the second batch of applicants," Aniya.
"Sa tulong mo? Ayaw ko nga, Rai." I said and shook my head. "Maybe I am not
meant for your firm."
"You are damn meant for me!" Kumunot ang noo n'ya kaya nanlaki ang mata ko at
nilingon s'ya.
"You are meant for my firm," Tumikhim s'ya at humigpit ang hawak sa manibela.
"Paano kung hindi?" I whispered.
"You are, kapag sinabi kong oo, oo 'yun, Serafine!" Iritado na s'ya.
"Pwede pero syempre hindi lahat ng bagay ay posible--"
"I will make impossible things possible for you!" He exclaimed.
Napaubo ako, nag-iinit ang pisngi, nakagat ko ang labi ko at sumulyap sa kanya.
"R-Rai?"
"Fuck," He suddenly cursed and looked away. "I'm fucking whipped."
Ngumuso ako at huminga ng malalim para mabawasan ang malakas na pagkabog ng
aking puso.
"Uh, ganyan ka ka-patay na patay sa akin, Rai?" I asked cutely.
He suddenly laughed sarcastically, nilingon n'ya ako at bahagyang umawang ang
labi.
"Damn, confidence!" He exclaimed.
Napangiti ako, maya-maya ay natawa sa kanyang reaksyon.
"Ano nga? Totoo?" I asked, smiling.
"I don't know what to do to you, woman." Umiling s'ya.
I chuckled, muli akong sumandal sa upuan at kinalma ang naghaharumentado kong
puso.
"So...saan tayo?" I asked.
"Kumain ka na ba?" He asked.
I pouted and smirked.
"Hala, pa-fall!" I murmured.
"What?" Kunot noo n'ya akong nilingon, napahagalpak ako ng tawa roon sa kanya
at napailing.
"Wala, sabi ko hindi naman ako ganoon ka-gutom, bakit?"
 "I'm quite hungry," He said and relaxed a bit. "I was eager to catch the early
flight earlier."
"Pasensya na, Rai. You see, I was just stressed pero ayos lang..." Mahinang
sabi ko.
"It's alright, just talk to me if you feel alone or when you need someone to
talk to."
"Okay,"
"Anyway, I bought you presents." Aniya kaya nangunot ang noo ko at nagtaka
roon.
"Huh?"
"Uhm, I bought you dresses." He cleared his throat.
"What...totoo?!" My eyes widen.

"Yes, it's in the back compartment." He said.

"Bakit? Para saan? May okasyon ba?" Takang tanong ko.
"Nothing," His lips protruded. "I just thought it would look good to you and I
like the colors, I think it'll suit you perfectly."
I shook my head in amazement, my eyes are wide while looking at him.
"Rai!" I exclaimed and smacked him, tumawa naman s'ya roon at umiwas.
"I was just being thoughtful!" He exclaimed.
"Ano, fashion designer ka ba?" I hissed and he laughed at that.
We went to a mall to eat, busog man ako ay kumain na rin ako dahil nagugutom
ang Daddy ko. He's so cute when he eats, halatang gutom na gutom pero nang mahuli
akong nakatitig at kinukuhaan s'ya ng litrato ay sumimangot ang ngumuso.
"Sera, you--"
"Nope," I grinned, sinipa ko ang kanyang paa at natawa. "Don't talk when your
mouth is full."
The sadness I felt is still there but it is slowly fading away while I'm with
him, hawak-hawak n'ya ang magkabilang popcorn sa kanyang braso habang namimili kami
movie na papanoorin.
"What movie do you like?" He asked, we both glance at the horror movie and I
grinned.
"I like this one,"
"Alright," He chuckled. "Thought you'd like romantic comedies?"
"Hmm, I preferred watching horror today." I said with an evil plan inside my
mind.
Umpisa palang ay nagpapanggap na akong natatakot, of course I am not. I am a
fan of horror movies!
Kita ko ang seryosong mga mata ni Rai habang nakatitig sa screen, he is still
wearing his dark blue dress shirt and slack, looking like he just finished a board
meeting but has no choice but to come to his spoiled baby girl.
I giggled.
Isang sulyap lang sa akin ni Rai ay umawang na ang labi ko.
"Why are you giggling?" He whispered.
I bit my lip, pretending to be scared.
"Natatakot kasi ako," I murmured.
I screamed when the people around screamed, hindi ko nga alam saang banda sia
nagulat pero nakisabay ako.
I swiftly lifted the border separating us, 'yung sa gilid ng upuan, kaagad
akong nagsumiksik sa kanya at mabilis n'yang hinawakan ang braso ko.
"What's the matter, baby?" He whispered.
"I'm scared," I said in a small voice.
He caressed my arm slowly, tila kinakalma ako, hindi n'ya alam ay mas
kinikilabutan ako sa kanyang ginagawa!
I bit my lip, supressing my grin, nagsumiksik ako sa kanyang dibdib roon.
He lifted his drinks and placed it near my lips, nangingiting uminom ako roon
at wala sa movie ang atensyon.
 Saglit akong nanuod, nakakatakot pero wala akong gulat na maramdaman dahil sa
presensya ni Rai sa tabi ko.
"Rai, subo." I whispered.
"Hmm?" He asked and stared at me gently.
"Subo," I pouted.
He chuckled, lifting the popcorn and placed it near my mouth.
"Popcorn?" He asked.
"No," I grinned, bumaba ang tingin ko sa kanyang slacks. "Subo 'yung susi mo--"

Halos mabilaukan ako nang isuksok n'ya sa bibig ko ang

popcorn.
"Rai--"
He placed a mouthful of popcorn on my mouth and I am laughing, sa dilim ay kita
ko ang pamumula ng pisngi ni Rai sa sinasabi ko.
"Serafine!" He groaned lowly.
Nginuya ko ang popcorn at natawa.
"Why? Gusto ko lang namang--"
He suddenly lowered his lips, catching my lips to shut me up.
Natigalgal ako roon, gulat na nanlalaki ang mata.
He touched my chin, lifting my face so he can kiss me properly. I slowly closed
my eyes, humawak ako sa kanyang balikat at kaagad na gumanti ng halik.
I bit his lip when he bit mine, I welcomed his tongue inside my mouth.
His hand fell on my waist, caressing it sensually, tila lasing kaming
naghahalikan sa kabila ng takot sa loob ng sinehan.
I opened my eyes and saw how his forehead creased with the intensity of our
kiss, kumakalabog ang puso ko sa nararamdaman. I slowly touched his nape to kiss
him more when the screams of people infront of us echoed, stopping us.
Bigla kaming napahiwalay sa isa't-isa, parehong naghahabol ng hininga at
nagkatitigan.
Slowly, I licked my lips and smiled at him.
"Lasang cheese," Hagikhik ko.
He chuckled, shaking his head, isang tungo ay muli n'ya akong pinatakan ng
halik sa labi bago sumandal sa upuan at ipinikit ang mata.
"Ang bango mo, daddy." I whispered, sniffing his neck.
He seems problematic, yumakap ako sa kanyang baywang at nag-angat ng tingin.
"Why?"
"Sakit mo sa ulo, Serafine." Ngiwi n'ya.
"Huh? Why? What did I do?" I murmured.
"I was trying to control my urge to kiss you like a mature person but you keep
on testing my patience."
Ngumuso ako, nang-aasar.
"Oh, just admit it daddy, you like kissing your baby girl so much."
He shook his head, like he was so disappointed of himself.
"You're right," He murmured and I chuckled, kissing his cheek with a smile.
"Saan ba tayo pupunta?" I asked Rai when we went at the top of the mall's
building when the sky sunset is near after we watched a movie.
"Basta," He smiled.
I nodded, still curious. Pinagmasdan ko ang langit na naghalong dilaw at
orange, tila papalubog na sa nagbabantang dilim.
The sky looks like it was a ball of flame in the near dark night.
Mahangin at maliwanag ang tuktok, nakita ko si Lando na naroon sa isang gilid
at tahimik na nakamasid sa amin.
I smiled at him and waved a little, ngumiti s'ya at tumango sa akin.
"Engineer!" Napalingon ako at nagitla nang maabutan ko ang secretary ni Rai na
lalaki.
"June," He called.
"Uhm," He glanced at me and smiled shyly. "Hello, Ma'am Sera."
 "Hi," I smiled.
A grip on my waist and my attention is on him again.
"Where is it?" I noticed his cold voice and creased forehead.
Natawa ako at sinundot ang kanyang baywang.
"Seloso." I whispered.
Ngumuso s'ya at nilingon ako.
"I am not," He murmured.
"Malapit na po, engineer." He said and before we could say anything, I heard
the sound of the engine.
Biglang humangin, hinawakan ni Rai ang baywang ko para alalayan paatras at
umawang ang labi ko nang makita ang pagbaba ng unti-unti ng isang helicopter mula
sa himpapawid.
My mouth parted, napalingon ako kay Rai na nakatitig sa akin.
"How..." I murmured.
"Surprise, baby." He said and kissed my hair.
Bumilog lang ang bibig ko, hindi nakapagsalita nang magpaalam s'ya at lumapit
sa helicopter.
I saw a pilot went out of the helicopter, kita ko ang pag-uusap nila ni Rai at
napakurap lang ako.
"Tara na, Ma'am." Ani ng kanyang secretary.
"S-Saan?"
"Sasakyan po kayo sa helicopter," He said.
My mouth parted, still in awe, I walked. Mabilis na nakasunod sa amin si Lando
at kaagad na nilingon ako ni Rai nang makita akong papalapit.
He jogged near me, hinawakan n'ya ang aking ulo at bahagyang ibinaba,
inalalayan n'ya ako paakyat roon at nang makaupo ay nanatili lang akong tulala.
It happens fast, sa pag-akyat ni Rai sa eroplano ay kaagad n'ya akong
nginitian.
He removed the hair on my face, naglagay ng headphone sa aking tenga at
siniguradong maayos ang aking pwesto.
He put his headphone and the next thing I know, we are flying in the sky.
"We're flying. This is Engineer Vioxx Miranda, your daddy pilot for the day, my
lady." Boses ni Rai ang narinig ko sa headphone kaya napatakip ako sa aking bibig.
"Rai!" I exclaimed.
He laughed.
"Yes, baby?" He asked and glanced at me.
Halos maiyak ako roon, lalo na nang lumipad na ang helicopter. Kitang-kita ko
ang pag-lubog ng araw at ang pagbalot ng dilim sa napakagandang langit at gabi.
It was my first time riding this! It's my first time that I ever got to ride
this and fly!
Ang langit ay madilim pero ang liwanag ng bituin ay nagbigay ng ganda.
"Hey, baby, look down." He said and I immediately did.
"Wow!" Amazement filled me when I looked down and saw the wonderful lights
below us.
They were like tiny, little stars below.
"You like it?" I glanced at Rai who was maneuvering the helicopter and I
immediately nodded.
"Yes..." I murmured. "Thank you so much, Rai. I love this so much!
"You deserve it," He suddenly said. "I know you had a tough day, I hope this
made you smile."
"Of course!" I exclaimed. "I'm so happy, I can't even explain what I feel.
Sobrang ganda, I never expected this. Rai, thank you."

"Yeah?" He chuckled. "Can I get a sweet message from my baby girl?"

"Hmm," I said and smiled happily nang may naisip. I glanced at the wonderful
sky again and felt the beating of my heart.
"I got a pick-up line for you," I said.
"Woah," He looks thrilled. "Okay, baby. Impress your daddy."
I sit back and stared at him.
 "Roses are red, violets are blue." I murmured.
He glanced at me and cocked his head, waiting for my next words.
"Gusto kong cash, 'yung kulay blue." I grinned. He stopped, napatili ako nang
biglang naging magalaw ang helicopter at hinampas ko s'ya nang magmura s'ya.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 12

Kabanata 12
"Sera? May pasok ka pa bukas diba?" Ma'am Asunta asked when while I was busy
serving the customers.
"Opo, Ma'am." I smiled.
"Uhm, wala ka bang exams?" Aniya, tila nag-aalangang tignan ako habang
naglilipat ng order.
"Meron po pero kaya naman," I chuckled.
"Alam mo, ayos lang naman kung hindi ka muna mag-serve. Maraming mga empleyado
ngayon tsaka kaunti lang ang customers kasi gabi na." She smiled at me gently. "You
can study first if you like."
My eyes widen, shaking my head.
"Hindi na po," I said. "Duty ko ngayon, nakakahiya nga po at minsan lang ako
papasok pagkatapos ay magpapahinga pa ako."
"You need it, hija." Malumanay n'ya sambit.
"Salamat po, Ma'am." I smiled. "You're so kind to me even if I don't deserve
it."
"Ano ka ba?" She pouted. "Every people needs and deserves kindness and love,
mga bagay at pakiramdam na hindi pwedeng makuha sa pera."
I nodded at her, smiling.
"Tama po kayo," Mahinang sabi ko, tila hinahaplos ang puso.
"I really thought money could give you everything but I was wrong. It can give
you what you want but never what you need emotionally and mentally."
She smiled, lumapit sa akin at hinawakan ang braso ko.
"Napakabuti mong bata, Sera." Malambing n'yang sabi.
Natawa ako at umiling.
"Naku, Ma'am. Hindi po. Siguro minsan but most of the time I am not, masama po
ang ugali ko." I said.
"People share their own fair evil," She shrugged. "Pero may dahilan, diba?"
Natigilan ako pero marahang tumango.
"Sometimes we can't stop ourselves to do something bad for your love ones." I
whispered. "That isn't ideal pero minsan hindi talaga mapipigilan."
"I wish you can meet my sister," She said and smiled, staring at me softly.
"Pwede naman po," I chuckled.
"Well, I wish she was still here." She shrugged. "Pakiramdam ko sobrang
matutuwa iyon sa'yo, you got a heart of an angel, Sera."
Oh, I don't think so?
'Hindi naman, Ma'am." Natawa ako, napasulyap nang may kumuha sa tray na hawak
ko kaya bumaling ako ulit kay Ma'am.
"I really wish she could see you," She sighed.
"Tara na ba, Ma'am?" I joked. "Pwede naman natin bisitahin."
"She's gone," Aniya sa malungkot na boses.
I froze, umawang ang labi ko at napakurap sa sinabi n'ya.
"S-Sorry, I didn't know..."
"It's alright," She smiled. "Matagal na 'yun, Sera."
"Pasensya na, Ma'am, akala ko talaga..."
"Ayos lang," She smiled. "Pero samahan mo ako minsang bisitahin s'ya?"
"O-Opo!" I nodded. "Oo naman po, sasamahan kita."
 She nodded, nagitla ako ng bahagya n'ya akong yakapin kaya mabilis ko s'yang
niyakap pabalik.
"Salamat, Sera." She whispered.
"Walang-anuman po," I continued the night by serving the customers, nang makuha
ko ang trenta minutos kong break ay naroon ako sa staff room at nagbasa ng notes ko
para sa exam ko bukas.

Mahirap man magsabay ng trabaho at pag-aaral, kailangan ko

gawin para sa kapatid at tatay ko.
Miggy still go to school but with restrictions, minsan kapag masama ang kanyang
gising ay hindi namin s'ya pinapapasok at ako nalang ang nagtuturo sa kanya.
We hired a nanny who can assist my brother, medyo may kalakihan ang ibabayad
pero para sa kapatid ko.
Isa pa ang tatay ko, ilang beses ko na s'ya sinasabihang magpacheck-up na dahil
nahuhuli ko s'yang humahawak sa kanyang dibdib pero sinasabing ayos lang s'ya.
Ang nanay naman...ewan ko, hindi naman n'ya ako sinasaktan sa ngayon dahil may
pera s'ya, hindi ko alam saan n'ya kinuha pero galante s'ya, siguro ay sa sugal.
Nang matapos ang break ko ay kaagad akong lumabas pero natigilan nang makita si
Marco na lumabas ng opisina ni Ma'am Asunta.
"Marco!" I called.
He stopped, shifted his position at nagitla lang ako nang makitang nanlaki rin
ang kanyang mata nang makita ako.
"Sera!" He called.
I laughed, lumapit ako sa kanya at ngumisi s'ya.
"Dito ka nga pala nagtatrabaho 'no?" He smiled.
"Oo, paano mo nalaman?" I smiled.
"Uh...hula ko lang." Natawa s'ya. Napasulyap ako sa opisina ng boss ko pabalik
sa kanya.
"Bakit ka nandito? Kilala mo si Ma'am?" I asked.
"Oh, she's my mom." He said.
My eyes widen.
"S-Seryoso?!" I exclaimed.
He laughed, nodding at me softly.
"Yep," Then I realized their surnames. Damn, bakit hindi ko naisip na parehas
silang Flores?
"OMG!" I murmured. "I...didn't know!"
"Ayos lang," He chuckled.
Napakurap-kurap ako roon at muli s'yang natawa sa akin.
"Anyway, how about your intership?" He asked me.
"Hmm, I got a few more offers from some firm. Nagkaroon din ako ng chance sa
second batch ng applicants sa mga Miranda." I smiled.
"And?"
"Nag-interview ako sa lahat pati na rin sa mga Miranda, nag-aantay nalang ako
ng email."
"Wishing you a goodluck! Hoping we're together sa Miranda, maganda ang
benefits. May allowance kahit interns."
"Sana," I smiled.
"Sera, pasuyo naman sa customer sa table number five!" I heard one waiter
called me.
"Okay!" I exclaimed. Nagpaalam paalis kay Marco bago takbuhin ang pwesto roon.
Kinuha ko ang maliit kong notebook bago tinakbo ang table. Hinanda ko ang
ballpen ko at tumungo sa notebook ko pagkarating.
"Hello po, welcome! Ano pong order nila?" Magalang kong sabi habang inihahanda
ang isusulat ko.
"Hmm, I'd like to order you."
Nawala ang ngiti ko, mabilis na sumulyap sa um-order at halos mapaupo ako sa
lapag nang makita kung sino 'yun.
 "Rai!" I exclaimed.
He laughed, tilting his head to look at me, his intense eyes are flickering
with the lights.
"Can't I have a kiss, baby girl?" He smiled.

"Oh my God!" I almost hyperventilate, halos mapatalon ako

roon pero humawak s'ya sa aking baywang para kalmahin ako.
"Alright, I miss you too." He chuckled.
"I didn't see you in two days!" Palatak ko roon sa mahinang boses.
Tumingala s'ya sa akin at tumango.
"I was busy, ako nga dapat ang sub n'yo kanina kaso may biglaang meeting. I was
about to fetch you but Lando said you're working."
Ngumuso ako, nagpipigil ng ngiti.
"I'm fluttered, daddy." Napahawak pa ako sa dibdib ko.
He chuckled, marahang hinaplos ang baywang ko at tumayo.
Halos malula naman ako, kanina feeling ko ang tangkad-tangkad ko! 'Nung tumayo
s'ya ay wala na!
"Sit," Aniya at inilahad sa akin ang upuan.
"No," I immediately shook my head. "May trabaho ako, Rai."
"Kahit saglit?" Aniya.
"Kaka-break ko lang kasi kaya hindi pa pwede," I said.
He sighed and nodded, muli n'yang hinaplos ang baywang ko at doon ko naalalang
naka-uniform ako.
Bigla akong nahiya sa itsura ko, s'ya ang ayos-ayos! Ang gwapo-gwapo! Galing pa
ata itong site inspection pero ang bango-bango!
Samantalang ako ay haggard at amoy pawis na ata!
"Uhm..." Bahagya akong lumayo sa kanya. "Ano, 'yung suot ko."
He glanced at me, raising his brow.
"Why?"
"Ano, magtatrabaho na ako?" I said.
"Alright," He stared at me. "You look beautiful by the way."
Napalunok ako roon at napatitig sa kanya.
"I looked like trash right now--"
"Shut up, Serafine." He hissed. "You look beautiful like always, kahit ata
pasuotin kita ng sako."
I laughed, kinurot ko ang kanyang tagiliran at napailing.
"Bolero, gusto mo lang ng kiss."
"Pwede ba?" He said innocently and I laughed and shook my head.
"Mamaya na, Engineer Miranda." I said. "Mag-order ka na."
He kissed my hair, lumayo ako at tinulak s'ya paupo sa upuan n'ya kaya ngumuso
s'ya sa akin.
"Lalambing lang eh..." He groaned.
Natawa ako at pinakita sa kanya ang aking notebook.
"Kumain ka na?" He asked.
"Tinapay lang," I said.
His forehead creased at that.
"At nabusog ka doon?"
"Hindi syempre," Tawa ko. "Mamaya na ako kakain."
He sighed, bumaba ang tingin sa menu bago bumaling sa akin.
"Just a cup of coffee," Aniya.
"Pagkain?" I asked.
"No," He shook his head and stared at me. "Magsasabay tayo ng hapunan mamaya."
"Okay," I smiled brightly. "One cup of coffee for my daddy!"
Nagtungo ako sa counter, ibinigay ang order doon at nang ilagay sa tray ang
order ni Rai ay dinala ko iyon sa kanya.
 I saw him talking to someone on the phone kaya binagalan ko
ang lakad ko.
"I know what I am doing, Alice." He said coldly.
Ngumuso ako, pasimpleng nilapag ang tasa sa harapan n'ya at nakita kong
natigilan s'ya roon at pinindot ang end call.
"Kanina ka pa?" He glanced at me.
"Ngayon lang," I smiled. "Enjoy."
Bumalik ako sa trabaho na iniisip kung ano ang topic nila ni Alice.
Sila ba? Totoo bang ipapakasal s'ya roon? Is he playing with me?
Nahuhuli ko si Rai na nakatitig sa akin sa malayo habang nagtatrabaho ako,
kasama na n'ya sa table si Lando at hindi ko alam kung anong pinagtatalunan ng
dalawa roon.
"Sera, aalis na ako." Isang hawak sa braso at nangiti ako nang makita si Marco.
"Ganun ba? Sige, ingat!" I smiled.
I took a glance at Rai at nakita kong kunot ang kanyang noo habang nakatingin
sa aming dalawa.
He stood pero pinigilan s'ya ni Lando para makaupong muli.
Napasulyap si Marco sa tinitignan ko at nakita kong natigilan s'ya at tumikhim.
"Uh, una na ako, Sera." Aniya at nagmamadaling umalis.
Tahimik ako habang naglalakad kami patungo sa kanyang kotse, he took my bag,
hindi ko alam kung saan na napadpad si Lando.
"Sera," He called.
"Hmm?" I smiled.
"What's the matter?" He asked.
I sighed and shook my head.
"Wala naman,"
"You seems bothered," Aniya at inabot ang kamay ko.
"Ayos lang ako," I murmured. His forehead creased, nang makarating kami sa
tapat ng kanyang kotse ay nagulat ako nang patunugin n'ya ang kotse at marahang
isinandal n'ya ako sa kotse.
He put my bag on the roof, slowly pushing me.
"Rai..." I murmured.
"Hmm?" He hummed, my heart's thumping hard.
"Why?"
Hindi s'ya umimik kaagad, mas tumungo s'ya sa akin kaya napigil ko ang hininga.
"Aren't you tired hiding what you really feel?" He murmured, putting the
strands of my hair behind my ear.
"Huh? Bakit...ano naman itatago ko?"
"I know you, baby." Isang pasada lamang n'ya ng halik sa aking labi ay
naghahabol na ako.
"Rai,"
"What's wrong? Tell me, baby, please." He whispered and give me a kiss again.
My mouth parted, napahawak ako sa kanyang balikat at ginantihan s'ya ng halik.
He groaned, gripping my waist as he capture my lips for a sensual kiss. Sa
lamig ng hangin sa labas ay ramdam ko ang init na na bigay n'ya.
He moved away from me, nag-angat ang mata kong namumungay na. I saw his intense
eyes, looking so dark and gentle.
"Why did you stop?"
"No kisses for a naughty baby," He smiled and pinched my nose. "Tell me what
are you thinking."
Napalunok ako at kinagat ang labi ko.
"Si Alice Tan," I started, he lowered his head to look at me.

"Hmm? What about her?"

Lumunok ako at tumitig sa kanyang mata.
"What is she to you?" I asked.
 Tumitig s'ya, maya-maya ay ngumisi.
"What?" I eyed him sharply.
He looks amused, tilting his head to stare at me.
"Jealous?" He asked.
"Vioxx!" I smacked his arm.
His laughter roared, paulit-ulit kong hinampas ang kanyang braso at natatawang
hinawakan n'ya ang aking kamay at hinuli.
"Baby," Tawa n'ya.
"Isa, Miranda!" I exclaimed.
"Alright," He chuckled again and stared at me. "That's why my baby's grumpy,
huh?"
"Just tell me," Ngiwi ko.
Tumawa s'yang muli, hinawi ang aking buhok at tumitig.
"Alice is a friend and a colleague, she's an engineer in my firm." He said.
"Eh, bakit may nabalitaan akong nagdinner kayo?"
"You've been reading, huh?"
I rolled my eyes at him, tinulak s'ya, papasok na sana sa kanyang kotse pero
nahuli n'ya ako.
He opened his car door, sat on the shotgun before dragging me inside.
Napasinghap ako sa nang bumagsak ako sa kanyang kandungan.
"Rai!" I groaned.
He laughed, iniangat ang paa ko at sinara ang kotse.
I eyed him, pulled his hair and he cursed, pulling my hand from his hair.
"Okay, listen." He said, calming me. Tinagilid n'ya ako ng upo, sumulyap ako sa
kanya.
"We had dinner, yes. Pero kasama ko ang mga kapwa kong engineers, we are having
a meeting for a big project." He said.
Tumitig ako sa kanya at seryoso rin ang kanyang tingin sa akin.
"Her family's close with mine but I really don't have any connection with her.
We meet occasionally."
Ineksamin ko ang reaksyon n'ya pero tanging amusement lang ang nahuli ko. When
he saw my rolling eyes, he relaxed, isinandal pa ang ulo sa upuan.
Hindi na ako umimik at umiling.
"How about that boy, then? Marco?" He suddenly asked. "You told them where you
work?"
"No," Sagot ko. "His mother's my boss."
"They know about you?"
"I never lied, hindi ko sinabing mayaman ako. The only people who thinks I'm
rich is my friends, sina Gino."
His jaw clenched.
"And here I am thinking I am the only one who knows about you." He said.
I chuckled, hinawakan ko ang kanyang pisngi bago halikan ang tungki ng kanyang
ilong.
"Let's eat na? I'm hungry na, daddy ko."
He looked at my stomach, protruded his lip and caught mine for a smack.
"Ikaw nalang kainin ko," He said naughtily at pinitik ko lang ang kanyang noo
bago bumaba para makababa rin s'ya.
We went to a restaurant to eat, habang kumakain ay tumunog ang phone ko dahil
sa mga mensahe nila Gino para magyaya ng bar hopping at pasyal. Tumanggi muna ako
at sinabing busy.

An email caught my attention, in-open ko iyon at

napasinghap nang makita ang email galing sa kompanya ni Rai!
My eyes widen when I saw the email.
"I got in," I murmured, amazed.
Mabilis kong sinulyapan si Rai na nakatitig lang sa akin at ngumunguya.
"I got in, Rai!" I exclaimed.
 "Hmm?"
"I got the internship in your company!"
He didn't look that shock, he just smiled at me and nodded.
"I told you, you can do it." He smiled.
"May ginawa ka 'no?" Nanliit ang mata ko.
He immediately shook his head, kumuha ng karne at mabilis na kinain.
"No..." He said and shook his head, may laman ang bibig. "I'm just innocently
eating here."
Gusto ko sana s'yang usisain pero sa sobrang tuwa ko ay hindi ko magawa.
Niyaya ko si Rai sa kanyang condo pagkatapos nang bigla kong maalala ang
kontrata. I realized it's unfair for him na ibinigay na n'ya sa akin ang pera pero
hindi ko pa nasasabi ang nalalaman ko.
"I am not in hurry, Serafine. This can wait." Aniya habang nakasalampak ako sa
kanyang kama at kinukuha n'ya ang kontrata kung saan.
"It's unfair, Rai." I said. "Binigay mo na sa akin ang pera pero wala pa akong
naitutulong."
He sat infront of me, inabot ang ibinigay n'yang papel.
"I told you, I am doing my investigations. We've gathered CCTV footages
regarding the incident, we saw what happened to Akisha pero hindi pa kumpleto."
"What I saw is definitely useless but it can somehow help, gusto kong matapos
mo na ang imbestigasyon mo." I said.
He stared at me deeply, nang makita kung gaano ako ka-seryoso ay tumango s'ya
at mariing pumikit.
"Alright,"
"You can show me the footages, malapit sa akin ang pinangyarihan ng insidente.
I may be able to help you identify the culprit, Rai."
He nodded again, I noticed his hesitation.
Kinuha ko ang ballpen roon sa gilid at binasa ang nakasulat, si Ephraim naman
ay mabilis na sumalampak sa kama at tumabi sa akin.
Hindi ko na s'ya sinita nang humiga s'ya sa hita ko at paharap na yumakap sa
tyan ko.
"I'm tired," He murmured.
Hinaplos ko ang kanyang buhok at muling nagbasa.
"I-uwi mo 'yung tinake-out na pagkain," Aniya kaya napatingin ako sa kanya.
"Huh? Sa'yo 'yun, diba? Pagkain mo?"
"No, I'm full, baby. Give it to Miggy, he'll love that."
Kumalabog ang puso ko sa sinabi n'ya, mapungay at pagod ang kanyang mga mata
pero bakas ko ang concern sa kanyang sinasabi.
Pinigil ko ang aking ngiti at hinuli lang ang kanyang kamay para halikan.
"Thank you," Masuyong sabi ko. "He'll love it."
Pagkatapos kong pirmahan ang ibinigay n'ya ay umayos s'ya ng upo at sumulyap sa
akin, naghihintay ng aking desisyon.
"We don't have to rush," Ulit n'ya.
"Dapat mas maagang maso-solve ang kaso," I said. "Para hindi ka na mahirapan."
"If you tell me things, maaaring malagay sa panganib ang buhay mo. You will
need Lando more, kailangan mo ring mag-ingat sa mga nakakasalamuha mo."

I nodded at him.
"I understand,"
"Don't worry, I will make sure of your security." Aniya. "Lando will be there
always, kapag nasa kompanya kita doon ka sa malapit sa akin, okay?"
"Okay, Daddy." Ngiti ko.
"I can lend you a condo unit--"
"Ayos lang ako sa bahay," I said.
"But that can give you extra security--"
"It's really okay, Rai. I can manage."
He sighed deeply, staring at me before nodding.
 "What is it?"
"It's not that much," I started. "Gabi 'yun tapos galing kami sa bar, pauwi na
ako tapos pagdaan ko doon sa may lilim patungo sa may gubat na parte may nakita
akong weird."
He just listened to me intently.
"Tapos sumilip ako kasi nakita ko may lalaking nakaitim na may tabon sa mukha.
Medyo malaki 'yung kanyang katawan, matangkad."
Nanliit ang mata n'ya at tumango sa akin.
"I coudn't see that much because it was too dark, basta nakita kong may hila-
hila s'yang malaking itim na bag papasok doon sa gubat."
"Tapos..." Napaayos ako ng upo. "I saw a white van, malaking van."
"Do you see something unique about the van?" He asked.
"Just a normal val but I saw the weird sticker on the back. It was a dark red
letter x. May parang bungo rin." I said, remembering what I saw.
He nodded at that, inabot n'ya ang kamay ko.
"How about the plate number?" He asked.
"I saw it...but it wasn't clear to me." I murmured. "I only remember a bit,
hindi ko maalala ang pagkakasunod-sunod."
He took a paper and pen, pilit ko namang inisip ang nakita ko. It's a good
thing I have a long-term memory pero hindi iyon sapat para maalala ko ng malinaw.
I told him the few letter and numbers that I saw, he scribbled it on the paper.
"Yun lang," I said. "Hindi ko maalala ang buong plate number pero may ganyan."
"Thank you, this is a big help." Bahagya s'yang lumuhod at hinalikan ang noo
ko.
"May napansin ka bang kakaiba sa mga tao sa paligid ng bahay n'yo? Someone
acting weird or anything, covered in blood?"
"Meron," I murmured.
Napaayos s'ya ng upo roon at sumulyap sa akin.
"Who?"
Umiling ako at ngumisi.
"Wala pala, si tatay lang 'yun, nasira kasi 'yung jeep kaya inayos n'ya. Luma
na kasi, nagkumpuni s'ya sa ilalim tapos nasagi, may sugat s'ya." I said.
Nanatili ang kanyang titig sa akin.
"Sa mga kapitbahay namin, wala." I shook my head. "Yun lang naman, Rai. Sorry
kung hindi masyadong madetalye. Sana makatulong?"
He remained staring at me then slowly nodded and took my hand.
"It's alright, this is a big help for me."
"How about the CCTVs? Maybe I can help?" I asked.
"No, it's alright." He shook his head.
"Sige na, Rai. Let me see." I said.
"Are you sure?" He asked. I nodded, kinuha n'ya ang laptop at naupo sa tabi ko
bago iyon binuksan.
The first footage I saw is a video of a woman from a bar, naglalakad ito sa
parking at mukhang may inaantay.
Then I gasped when a white van stopped infront of her and dragged her inside.
Napalunok ako, sumulyap kay Rai na pinagmamasdan lamang ang reaksyon ko.
The video stopped there, ang sumunod ay ang video ng van sa may traffic lights
kung saan iyon nakatigil.
The next thing is when the van stopped. Lumabas roon ang iilang lalaki na
nakatakip ang mukha at nagtungo kung saan.
The next footage is in a convenience store, may pumasok roong mga lalaki,
nakahoodie at may mga sumbrero.
My forehead creased, naghiwa-hiwalay sila at kumuha ng mga bibilhin.
"We coudn't see their faces clearly since hindi maganda ang copy mula sa CCTV."
Aniya.
Hindi ako nakapagsalita, one man caught my attention. Naglalakad iyon patungo
sa lagayan ng tubig.
Before he could even get water, he touched his chest, tila hindi makahinga.
Kumunot ang aking noo, dali-daling kumuha ito ng tubig at binuksan bago mabilis
na ininom.
Because of that, he tilted his face up, nakita ang kaunting parte ng kanyang
mukha sa CCTV.
I froze when I saw a bit of his face and my eyes widen at that.
Si Tatay.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 13

Hello, I'll be busy the next days. Enjoy!

xxx
Kabanata 13
"May nakilala ka ba?" Hinawakan ni Rai ang baywang ko at mabilis akong
napasulyap sa kanya.
I gasped, nangingilid na ang aking luha pero nanatili akong maayos.
"Wala," I said and gave him a smile.
His forehead creased, staring at my eyes.
"Alright," He touched my cheek.
"H-Hindi ko kasi makilala...uhm, nakatakip ang mukha tapos ano, kalahati lang
ang mukha 'nung--"
Rai immediately closed the laptop, napasulyap ako roon pabalik sa kanya.
"Why did you--"
"You should rest," He said.
"W-Wala pa ba kayong lead?" Halos manginig ang boses ko roon.
"Nothing," He said, slowly pulling me and hugged my waist.
Napasulyap ako sa kanya at sumiksik s'ya sa'king leeg.
"Don't worry about the case, baby." He whispered.
"P-Paano ako makakatulong?" Bulong ko.
"It was helpful enough, don't think about this. Ako na ang bahala."
Mariin akong napapikit, kumuyom ang aking kamay at hindi kaagad nakapagsalita.
"B-Baka...baka may maitulong ako--"
"I just want you to think of your safety," Aniya at marahang lumayo sa akin.
He cupped my cheek, napasulyap ako sa kanya at nakita ko ang pagbuntong-hininga
n'ya.
"I will take care of this, okay? You don't have to worry. What you told me a
big help."
I nodded, sa pagtungo ko ay dumampi ang kanyang labi sa aking noo.
"Ihahatid na kita sa inyo, sleep well and you will have your quiz tomorrow,
right?"
I nodded.
"Rest, okay?"
Sa paghatid n'ya sa akin ay nanatili kaming tahimik na dalawa. I know he
noticed my silence but he didn't ask me about it.
He remained quiet and calm too, hanggang sa maihatid n'ya ako malapit sa amin
ay wala ako sa sarili.
Si Tatay? Impossible.
Impossibleng si tatay ang kasama sa gumawa 'nun! It was a crime! A murder!
There is no way he'll do it! He can't be involve in it!
My tatay is the kindest man I've ever known! He could never do that!
S'ya lang ang nagturing sa aking pamilya bukod kay Miggy, he took care of us!
There is no way...he'll do it...no way.
Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras akong umiiyak sa gabing iyon.
I tried my best to remain quiet to not disturb my brother. Nanatili akong
nakasiksik sa gilid, nakatungo at yakap ang aking tuhod habang umiiyak.
Baka namalikmata lang ako, iba 'yun! Lahat naman ng tao ay may kamukha kaya
possibleng ganun nga lang iyon.
 Maagang-maaga palang ay ang sigawan na kaagad ni Nanay at Tatay ang narinig ko.
I opened my eyes and saw Miggy sitting on the pillow, kinukusot ang kanyang
mata at halatang naalimpungatan.
"Miggy," I called and slowly sat.

"Ate," He called. I smiled.

Lumapit ako sa kanyang pwesto at marahang hinaplos ang kanyang buhok, I kissed
his forehead and talked to him.
"How was sleep, Migs?" I tried cheering him up.
"Ayos lang po, Ate." He smiled and pointed the mattress. "Sarap ng tulog ko,
Ate! Sarap po sa likod ng kutson!"
I chuckled, ginulo ko ang kanyang buhok roon.
"Syempre naman, gusto ko talaga komportable ang Miggy ko." Sinundot ko ang
kanyang pisngi.
"Salamat po, Ate! Eh, Ate, bakit ikaw ayaw mong mag-kutson? Kaya naman pong
tayong dalawa?"
"Ayos lang ako sa papag, Migs. H'wag mo akong isipin, ang mahalaga ay masarap
ang tulog mo."
Niyaya ko s'ya palabas ng kwarto, galit na galit si Tatay habang nagsisigawan
sila ni Nanay.
"Ano itong TV na ito, Divina?! Hindi natin ito kailangan!" My father's voice
roared.
My forehead and saw a big box in our living room.
"Sige na, Migs. Tootbrush at ligo ka na." I said.
Umalis ang kapatid ko, bahagyang sumulyap ako roon at lumapit.
"Pwes, ako ay kailangan ko!" She exclaimed. "Walang kwenta na itong bahay!
Walang mapanuod d'yan sa luma mong TV na panahon pa ng kopong-kopong!"
"Mahal 'yan! Magkano, huh? Magkano ang bili mo r'yan?"
"Wala kang pakialam! Pera ko ang gamit ko rito!" She exclaimed.
"Kung sana ay ipinantulong mo nalang ang gamit na pinabili mo n'yan? Sana ay
nakatulong ka!"
"Punyeta ka, manahimik ka nga!" Sigaw n'ya. "Wala akong pakialam sa'yo! Ang
concern ko ay ang anak kong si Miggy! Wala akong pakialam sa'yo o r'yan sa anak
mong pokpok!"
"Nay," I called, stopping them.
Napatingin sila sa akin, ang mata ni Tatay na punong-puno ng galit ay napalitan
ng lambot at paumanhin. While my mother looks she will slap me anytime soon.
"Anak," Tatay called.
"Tama na po sana mula," I said calmly. "Baka maapektuhan po kasi si Miggy--"
"At ano nanamang sasabihin mo?!" Tinulak ako ni Nanay kaya nagitla ako at
napaatras.
"Ang concern ko lang po ay ang kapatid ko--" I gasped and crossed my arms to
cover my face when she lifted her hand to slap me.
Nag-antay ako sa takot na humampas sa akin ang kanyang palad pero walang
dumating kaya napaayos ako ng tayo.
I slowly look at her and saw her hand mid-air, handa na akong pagbuhatan ng
kamay perp hindi n'ya ginawa.
I was confused when she immediately lowered her hand, clearing her throat as if
she remembered something.
"Wala akong sasayanging lakas para sampalin ang walang kwentang kagaya mo,"
Aniya at bahagyang lumayo.
She rolled her eyes at me, nakita kong bumalik sa sofa at doon ay nakita ko ang
maraming paperbag na mukhang kanyang pinamili kung saan.
"Tara na, anak." Tatay touched my arm and I jumped.
Sa sobrang gulat ko ay napalayo ako sa kanya at mabilis na hinawakan ang braso
ko.
"Serafine?" He called.
 "Uhm," I closed my eyes to calm myself. "W-Wala, Tay, pasensya na, nagulat lang
ako."

He nodded, mukhang nagtataka pa rin pero hindi nagkomento.

"Magluluto po muna ako," I said and walked pero sumunod s'ya sa akin sa kusina.
"Ayos na, anak. Napagluto ko na kayo, inayos ko na rin ang baon n'yo ni Miggy,
diba gusto mong magbaon?" He smiled at me.
May humaplos sa puso ko nang sabihin n'ya iyon. Halos maiyak ako sa concern at
pagmamahal sa kanyang boses.
"Opo, tay." I murmured. "Para makatipid, alam mo na, para kay Miggy tsaka sa'yo
rin."
Naupo ako sa upuan sa hapag, he walked towards me and touched my hair.
"Salamat, Sera, sa pagtulong sa akin magtrabaho. Pasensya na, anak, huh? Mahina
na rin ang tatay mo." He sighed.
Napatungo ako, pasimpleng pinunasan ang luha sa gilid ng aking mata at
nagkunwaring tumayo para kumuha ng pinggan.
"Ayos lang, Tay. Marami nga po kayong nagawa sa aming magkapatid."
"Dapat nga ay hindi ka na nagtatrabaho, dapat nga ay ako lang dahil nag-aaral
ka." Aniya.
"Ayos lang po, masaya akong makatulong." I smiled, nang bumalik ako sa hapag ay
nakaupo na s'ya roon.
"Hayaan mo, nak. Kapag napagamot na natin ang kapatid mo, magdodoble-kayod ako
para matustusan ang pag-aaral mo." He is smiling but I noticed his tired eyes.
Sumikip ang dibdib ko nang makitang ganun ang itsura ng ama ko. Nasasaktan ako
kapag pilit n'yang gustong ipakitang masaya s'ya pero bakas ko ang lungkot at
disappointment n'ya sa kanyang sarili sa mga mata.
Kumuha ako ng pagkain at napasulyap sa kanyang braso at nakita ko ang mahabang
pilat ng sugat.
"T-Tay, saan galing?" I asked and touched his arm.
"H'wag!" He exclaimed.
Nagulat ako roon, mabilis n'yang ibinaba ang kamay n'ya at nakita ko ang
pagkabalisa n'ya.
"Yan po ba 'nung nakaraan?" I asked. "Yung gabing umuwi kayong may dugo?"
He froze, as if it reminds him of something.
Kumakalabog ang puso ko sa kaba habang pinagmamasdan ang kanyang reaksyon.
"O-Oo, uh, ito 'yung sumagi ako sa may alambre d'yan sa kanto." He said.
"Pero sabi mo, Tay, sa jeep." I said.
"H-Huh?" Nakita ko ang pag-iwas n'ya ng tingin. "Oo nga, anak. Nakalimutan ko,
oo, tama. Sumabit ako 'nung nag-aayos ng jeep."
Kumuyom ang kamay ko at halos sumabog ang kaba sa puso ko.
"Ganun po ba?" I murmured. "In any case, tay, dumaan po ba kayong convenient
store?"
"Hindi," He immediately shook his head. "Bakit ko naman naitanong?"
"Hmm, wala po." I smiled. "May naalala po ako kasing nagpapabili ako sa inyo ng
pagkain doon kapag may nadaan ka, pero nakalimutan mo."
"Uh," He nodded, uminom s'ya ng tubig at sinuklay ang kanyang buhok gamit ang
daliri. "Ano nga iyon ulit? Para bilhan na kita?"
"Hindi, ayos na po." I said.
He nodded, tahimik akong kumain kahit na malakas ang kalabog ng puso ko sa
pinaghalong kaba at lungkot.
Ayoko. Ayokong maniwala sa nakita ko. Nagkakamali lang ako.
"Kumusta pala ang intership mo, anak?" Biglang baling sa akin ni Tatay kaya
nilingon ko s'ya.
"Uhm, may mga offers po. Sa Guzman, sa mga Miranda--"
 "H'wag ka doon!" He suddenly said.
"Po?" Nanlaki ang mata ko sa sinabi n'ya.
"Sa mga Guzman ka," Aniya sa akin. "O kaya sa kahit anong offer sa'yo, hija.
H'wag ka doon sa mga Miranda." Aniya.
"Bakit naman po?"
"Basta! Kahit anong mangyari h'wag kang tatanggap!"
My forehead creased.
"Hindi po pwedeng basta lang, may dahilan ang lahat, tay. Bakit? Bakit ayaw mo
ako roon?" I demanded.
"Dahil...dahil hindi maganda roon, Sera. Mas maganda ang training sa mga
Guzman, may kaibigan ako roon kaya paniguradong maganda ang makukuha mong offer
kapag nakagraduate at pumasa ka na--"
"Isa po sa leading company ang Miranda sa engineering at architecture kasama
ang mga Sandejas." I said.
"Kahit na, Serafine." Aniya at umiling. "Maniwala ka sa akin anak. May kakilala
ako roon na hindi tumagal dahil hindi maganda--"
"Talaga po bang ganun lang o may personal kang dahilan?" I asked.
He stopped, nakita kong napaawang ang labi n'ya at unti-unting kumunot ang noo.
"Anong ibig mong sabihin, Serafine?" He asked me hardly.
"Wala, tay." I shook my head and sighed. "Pasensya na po."
"Kumain ka na at mamasada ako," Aniya at iniwan ako roon.
When I heard his footsteps walking away from me, nanghihina akong napasandal sa
upuan at pumikit.
I don't know what to do anymore. I don't know.
"Sera, come on! Hindi ka na sumasama sa amin, palagi kang busy!" Ani Jesusa
habang magka-video chat kami.
"Sorry, guys." I smiled. "I'm busy kasi, isa pa, medyo maraming activities sa
school. Alam n'yo na."
"We miss you, Sera. You know we feel kulang kapag wala ka, diba?"
"Miss you all, miss you too, Jen. Gusto ko mang sumama sa inyo, marami kasing
inaasikaso." I sighed.
"Where are you?" Gino asked. "Sa Manila? I can come and visit you, Sera."
"Yes, Gino. H'wag na, ayos lang ako. Babalik rin ako kaagad d'yan tapos gala
tayo?"
"Alright, we haven't see you since Jen's birthday. Napauwi rin ako ng maaga
noon kasi may mga lalaki sabi ay may tumatawag sa akin at pinapauwi ako. Damn,
naniwala ako!"
I supressed my laugh, kinagat ko ang labi at nailing.
"I miss you all, guys." I sighed.
"We miss you too, naku, pag-uwi mo rito, Sera. Sinasabi ko sa'yo, bibisitahin
namin 'yang mansion n'yo!"
I chuckled and nodded.
"S-Sige, uhm, sure." I smiled.
Nang natapos ang pag-uusap namin ay mabilis akong nag-out para makauwi.
Nakita ko ang mga katrabahong busy na tumulong sa kusina at magserve ng
pagkain.
Nakita ko ang isang nahihirapan sa pag-aayos ng mga take-out kaya lumapit ako
roon.
"Ches, tulungan muna kita." I said.
"Salamat, Sera! Doon ka muna sa may counter." Aniya.
I nodded, mabilis na nagtungo roon sa counter para mag-asikaso at tumulong. I
prepared the tray for the pending orders, habang ang iba ay busy sa paghahanda ng
order at doon sa cashier ay nag-aasikaso ako roon.

Kinuha ko ang tray, inilapag sa counter doon sa may

customer at kaagad akong natigilan at napaatras nang magkasalubong ang mata namin
ni Jenny.
 My eyes widen, kita ko ang unti-unting pagbaling sa akin ni Jesusa at Gino at
kumalabog ang puso ko.
They looked so shock seeing me, napaatras naman ako at halos magwala na ang
puso.
"Sera, paabot naman 'nung tray." Sabi ng kasama ko.
I immediately took the tray and placed it on the counter.
"K-Kailangan ko na umuwi," I murmured and quickly turned my back and almost ran
to the staff room to get my things.
Nangilid ang luha ko, kumakalabog ang puso ko habang nagpapara ng sasakyan sa
labas para makaalis.
I felt the vibration on my pocket! Nang sumilip ako ay sunod-sunod na tawag ang
natanggap ko mula sa kanila.
"Sera?" I froze when I heard a voice, kaagad akong lumingon at nanghina na nang
makita ang mga kaibigan kong naroon na sa likod ko.
"J-Jen..." I called.
I noticed the disgust on her face. Si Jesusa ay pinasadahan ako ng tingin at
tumigil iyon sa logo ng unipormeng hindi ko manlang nagawang palitan.
"What the hell are you wearing?" Jesusa pointed out.
"You work here?" Malamig na turan ni Gino kaya napasulyap ako sa kanya.
I noticed the disappointment on his face.
"G-Guys, I will explain--"
Napasinghap ako sa gulat nang maglakad palapit sa akin si Jenny at sinampal
ako.
Napahawak ako sa pisngi ko roon.
"J-Jen, sorry, I--"
"Nakakahiya ka!" Tinulak n'ya ako.
"You were fooling us all this time?" Jesusa exclaimed, her eyes are filled with
anger and disgust.
"N-No, oo, h-hindi ako mayaman pero 'yung pagkakaibigan ko, totoo 'yun--"
"You're poor?" Jesusa shrieked. "Fuck, you shoudn't belong to us!"
Tumulo ang luha ko roon.
"G-Guys--"
"We're so stupid believing in you, Serafine!" Jenny exclaimed. "You stupid poor
rat!"
"Jenny!" Gino exclaimed, stopping her. Galit na galit rin ang mga mata.
"P-Please," My tears fell, akmang lalapit ako sa kanila pero tinulak ako ni
Jesusa kaya nawalan ako ng balanse at napaupo.
I closed my eyes tightly, she walked towards me, ready to kick me when someone
blocked her.
Mabilis akong nag-angat ng tingin at naabutan ko si Lando na naroon sa harapan
ko.
"At sino ka, huh?! Bodyguard?!" Jenny exclaimed then suddenly laughed
hysterically. "Oh, no way. She's poor, she can't afford one!"
"Baka naman kasi boyfriend?" Nang-uuyam na sabi ni Jesusa. "Ganyan talaga ang
mahihirap kahit kanino papatol--"
"Stop it!" Gino exclaimed.
Mabilis akong binalingan ni Lando at inalalayan patayo, bahagya n'ya akong
hinarangan para protektahan.
Sumilip ako at sinubukang kausapin sila pero pilit nila akong itinaboy.
I feel so weak and hurt, kahit si Gino ay inilingan lang ako, punong-puno ng
disappointment ang mga mata.
"G-Gino," I murmured. "G-Guys, please, makinig kayo--"

"We won't talk to someone below our level, Sera." Mariing

sinabi ni Jesusa. "You of all people should know that.
"P-Please, nagawa ko lang naman--"
"We don't need your fucking explanation! You ugly scam!" She exclaimed.
 "Ma'am," Lando called.
"Guys--"
"You disgust me!" She exclaimed.
"Tara na, Ma'am." Ani Lando at hinawakan ako.
Sumisinghap at hinahawi ang luha ay sumama ako kay Lando. Tahimik lamang s'ya
at hindi na ako nakapagsalita nang makitang may nakaabang na sasakyan malapit sa
resto.
I quietly sat on the back and stayed quiet, tahimik namang nagmaneho si Lando
at hindi umimik pero nahuli ko ang kanyang mga tingin sa salamin.
Dinala n'ya ako sa building ng condo unit ni Rai, napasulyap ako sa kanya,
nagtataka.
"Dito nalang daw po kayo maghapunan, Ma'am." Marahang baling n'ya.
I slowly nodded, pilit na inayos ang aking sarili. Ni hindi ko manlang
napalitan ang aking damit at paniguradong magulo pa ang pagkakapusod ko ng buhok.
"Lando, magbabanyo lang sana ako." I called him.
"Sige, ma'am." Aniya.
I changed my clothes and wore a simple dress Rai bought for me. Nagponytail ako
ng buhok ko at siniguradong kahit papaano ay mukha akong presentable.
Sa paglabas ko ay nakita ko si Lando na parang sundalo ang tikas sa pagbabantay
roon. Nang makita ako ay kaagad s'yang lumapit.
"Tara na po, Ma'am." Aniya.
"Uhm, Lando?" Baling ko sa kanya.
"Po?"
"Uh, pwede bang h'wag malaman ni Rai ang mga nangyari kanina?" I asked him.
"Po? Nasaktan kayo, Ma'am. Hindi po paoayag si Engineer na ganun--"
"Ayoko lang ng gulo," I said. "Kapag nalaman n'ya iyon ay dadagdag pa sa
iisipin n'ya, ayoko ng ganun."
"Pero Ma'am,"
"Tsaka Lando, personal naman iyon. Sana, sana h'wag na malaman ni Rai, please?"
He stared at me, kita ko ang mga matang gustong tumanggi sa akin pero tumango
pagkaraan.
"Ngayon lang ito, Ma'am, huh? Sa susunod po ay sasabihin ko na."
I smiled and said my thanks, sa paglalakad namin patungo sa unit ni Rai ay
pilit kong pinapasaya ang mood ko.
I tried plastering a smile on my face, habang nag-aantay kami ni Lando sa labas
ng unit ay pilit ko pa ring iniisip ang mga hakbang na dapat kong gawin sa
nalalaman ko.
The door opened, kaagad kong nasalubong ang mga mata ni Rai kaya ngumiti ako.
I walked towards him but before I could reach him, isang masayang boses na ang
sumulubong sa akin mula sa loob.
"Ate Sera!" My eyes widen when I saw Miggy.
"Migs!" I gasped.
Sinalubong ko s'ya at kaagad na tumungo para yumakap.
"Ate! Ate ang laki po ng unit ni Kuya Rai!" He exclaimd happily while hugging
me.
Napasulyap ako kay Rai na nakatayo lamang sa may gilid na kaagad na ngumiti
nang magtagpo ang mata namin.
"Paano," I murmured, asking him pero ang kapatid ko ang sumagot.
"Nagpaalam s'ya, Ate! Kay Nanay!" Gulat akong napasulyap kay Rai.

"I just said I'll take him to you and we'll eat," Aniya.
My forehead creased, binalingan ko ang aking kapatid at hinaplos ang kanyang
noo.
"Saan kayo pumunta ni Kuya Rai?" I asked him.
"Uhm, nag-mall po kami, Ate! Tapos binilhan ako ni Kuya ng mga toys tapos ice
cream!"
Napabaling ako kay Rai at sinamaan s'ya ng tingin, nakita kong napakurap s'ya
bago namulsa at nag-iwas ng tingin.
"Let's eat?" Baling ni Rai sa amin. "Migs, favorite mo 'yung ulam."
"Talaga po? Yehey!" He exclaimed. "Bait mo po talaga, Kuya! Kaya gusto ka ng
Ate ko eh!"
"What?" I exclaimed.
Tumawa si Miggy, narinig ko rin ang halakhak ng engineer bago marahang abutin
ang baywang ko kaya napabaling ako sa kanya.
"Una ka na sa kusina, Migs." Rai smiled. "Lando, samahan mo na s'ya at kumain
ka na rin."
"Sige po, engineer, ma'am." Baling n'ya sa amin bago samahan ang kapatid ko sa
loob.
I sighed, siniko ko kaagad ang sikmura ni Rai at napamura s'ya sa ginawa ko.
"Baby," He groaned.
"Ano 'yun, huh?" I raised my brow at him.
"What? I just took him to a mall." Kumurap pa s'ya roon.
"No, I mean, paano mo nakuha kay Nanay 'yan?" I murmured, confused.
"Hmm?" He hummed, marahang pinaharap ako sa kanyang at hinaplos ang magkabilang
pisngi ko at pinatakan ako ng halik sa noo.
"Rai," I called, yumakap pa s'ya sa baywang ko at isiniksik ang mukha sa leeg
ko.
I cursed when he started kissing my collarbone.
"Ephraim!" I exclaimed. Natigilan s'ya at doon na napahiwalay.
"What?" He whinned, pouting.
"Paano mo nakuha si Migs kay Nanay?" I asked.
"I just talked to her and asked, pumayag s'ya." aniya.
"Nang ganoon kadali?" I asked.
"Hmm," He smiled.
"Pero--"
"Sshh," He placed his finger on my lips.
Ngumuso ako, pasimple kong niyakap ang kanyang baywang at humilig sa kanyang
dibdib.
"What's the matter?" He murmured when he noticed my tension.
I sighed, kumapit ako sa kanyang damit at bumuntong-hininga.
"Serafine," He called.
"I'm fine," Bulong ko. He touched my hair and kisses it.
"Everything will be alright. Whatever you're feeling now, you know you can
always count on me, right?"
"Hmm," I hummed.
I don't know, Rai. I really don't know. Sana ay ganoon lang iyon kadali.
I kissed his jaw, itinago ko ang aking mukha sa kanyang dibdib at hinaplos n'ya
ang likod ko.
I never got a call from my friends again, I saw Jenny and Jesusa's post in
social media regarding me.
Now, my circle of friends started crumbling down. They made fun of me and
cursed me, para hindi ako maging nega ay nag-deactivate nalang ako.
I stressed myself out in school, magsisimula na rin ang training ko kina Rai
kaya kailangan kong magdoble-kayod.
Every night, I'd go to the resto to work, inaasikaso na rin namin nila Tatay
ang operasyon ni Miggy.

"Here's your order, Ma'am. Enjoy your meal." I said and

turned my back.
"So, totoo nga? You're a waitress?" Lumingon ako at nagulat nang mamukhaan ang
mga tao na naroon at hinatidan ko ng pagkain.
It was one of my casual friends everytime I party with my friends, hindi ako
malapit sa kanila pero nakasalumuha ko sila.
"Dana," I called.
 "Really, huh? Serafine? You're disgusting!" She exclaimed.
I fisted my palm when I saw some of her friends taking a photo of me.
"Oh, that looks so silly!" Someone chuckled. "Talaga ngang mas bagay sa'yong
waitress kaysa sa sosyalin! Look at you, you look like a poor old hag!"
I heaved a deep sigh, calming myself.
"Please, h'wag muna dito, Dana." Mahinang sabi ko at nilingon sila. "We can
just talk outside--"
"And the gold-digger spoke english!" They exclaimed and laughed mockingly.
Pinagtitinginan na kami, kinagat ko ang labi ko at nakita ang pag-alerto ni
Lando habang naroon sa may tagong parte ng resto.
Our eyes met and I shook my head at him.
"Social-climber! If I know, nakikipaglandian ka sa mga matatandang mayaman!"
Dana exclaimed.
"I understand where is this coming from pero sa labas nalang sana--"
"Ang pangit ng lasa!" Sigaw ni Mika na nasa tabi ni Dana.
I caught her tasting the soup and pushed it harshly in the middle, tumapon ang
sabaw roon.
"Huh?" I murmured. "Bakit? Ano, papalitan nalang--"
"Nilagyan mo 'to ng kung ano, 'no?" She exclaimed.
"Please, Mika, Ma'am..." I murmured. "Papalitan nalang po natin--"
"Nasaan ang may-ari dito?! Ang pangit ng serbisyo!"
"Alam kong may problema kayo sa'kin, pakiusap, h'wag n'yo sanang idamay ang trabaho
ko--"
"I need to talk to the owner!" Eskandalo n'ya.
"What's happening?" Napalingon ako at napahinga ng maluwang nang makita si
Marco.
"Itong waitress n'yo! She should be fired!" Dana exclaimed.
Marco looked at me with concern, marahang hinawakan n'ya ang braso ko at
bahagyang itinago ako sa kanyang likuran na parang pinoprotektahan.
"We can talk regarding this, Ma'am--"
"Ikaw ba ang may-ari? I want to talk to the owner and get this bitch fired!"
"Serafine," Tawag sa akin ni Marco.
"Marco, pasensya na--"
"You have nothing to apologize," He murmured, his forehead creased. "Akong
bahala dito, can you call my Mom in her office?"
"S-Sige," I nodded. "Salamat."
He smiled.
Mabilis kong kinuha ang mainit na soup roon sa table at ibinalik sa tray.
Marco is talking to them, mabilis naman akong maglakad hawak ang soup ng tray,
diretso ang tingin.
Wala na ako sa sarili, habang naglalakad ay may humarang sa aking paa kasabay
ng malakas na tawanan nang madapa ako at mabuhos ang mainit na sabaw sa braso ko.
"Opps!" Napalingon ako at nakita ang pagtanggal ni Jenny ng kanyang paa sa
daan.
"Jenny!" Gino immediately stood from his seat and went to my aid but Jesusa
stopped him.
"What the fuck are you doing?!" Jesusa exclaimed.
"Hindi tama ang ginagawa n'yo!" Gino exclaimed, hinawi ang kamay ni Jesusa.
I immediately stood, nanginginig ang katawan sa pagkapahiya sa sarili at ng tao
sa paligid.
My tear fell, umayos ako ng tayo at sinulyapan ang kamay kong namumula.
"Sera--" Gino attempted to hold me but he was immediately lying on the floor
because of a punch.
Napasigaw ako roon at pati na rin ang mga tao sa paligid.
"Rai!" Sigaw ko nang makita si Vioxx na nasa lapag at walang pakundangang
sinusuntok ang mukha ni Gino.
"Lando! Help!" I exclaimed.
Mabilis na hinawakan ni Lando ang braso ni Rai.
Gino had the chance and immediately punched Rai's face, napaatras si Rai.
 "Ephraim!" Sigaw ko.
Natigil silang dalawa sa pambuno sa lapag.
I marched towards him and pulled his arm, tulong kami ni Lando na hinahin si
Rai doon sa galit n'ya.
His piercing eyes are dark, nakaigting ang kanyang panga.
"Fuck you!" Rai cursed. "You don't get to hurt Serafine!"
"I am not hurting her!" Gino exclaimed.
He went near me and pulled me against him pero sadyang mabilis si Rai at
mabilis akong nahawakan pabalik.
He placed his hand protectively on my waist, habol n'ya ang hininga sa galit.
"Bakit ka nandyan, Vioxx? That woman is a scam!" Dana exclaimed.
"Rai--" Lumayo ako rito pero mas humigpit ang hawak nito sa aking baywang ko.
"Stay here, Serafine!" He groaned.
I felt the intense rage he has, his jaw is clenching while holding me.
"Vioxx! She's fooling you! She isn't rich! She's just a poor rat--"
"Don't say something ill about her!" He groaned.
"Pero totoo naman! She's a conniving--"
"You'll pay for this." He said hardly.
"Don't get fooled by that pretty face--"
"I don't care if that pretty face will fool me." He spatted.
"Piniperahan ka lang n'ya, Vioxx! Wake up! That woman isn't worth it!" Jenny
exclaimed.
"You're gonna pay for this. No one messes with my girl and gets away with it."
He said coldly and took my hand, pulling me away from the crowd.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 14

Kabanata 14
"Rai," I called and touched his arm.
He remained silent, pumarada kami sa parking ng kanyang unit.
"Dito na po tayo, engineer." Lando said.
Rai went out of the car and I watched him silently as he walked towards my door
and opened it.
Inalalayan n'ya ako palabas at hinawakan ang baywang ko habang papasok kami.
He stayed quiet, kita ko ang pag-igting ng kanyang panga sa galit. His brown
eyes remained dark na kahit batiin s'ya ng mga guard ay hindi s'ya umimik.
Lando pressed the elevator for us, pagkarating namin sa kanyang unit ay
marahang inabot ko ang kanyang kamay.
"Doon lang ako sa sofa," I murmured.
He hesitated for a while but then nodded.
Umupo ako sa couch at pinagmasdan s'yang kinakausap si Lando. I saw Lando
glanced at me before nodding.
Sumulyap ako sa phone ko at nakita ang mensahe mula kay Ma'am Asunta at Marco,
nagtatanong kung ayos lang ba ang lagay ko.
I am thankful they didn't asked me what happened, ni wala akong natanggap na
galit na mga mensahe dahil sa nangyaring kumosyon sa resto.
I received a text from Gino, nagulat pa ako roon kaya mabilis ko iyong binasa.
From: Gino
Sorry, Sera. I'm sorry for what Jenny and Jesusa did to you. Hindi ko alam na
ganoon ang gagawin nila. I hope you will talk to me.
Tumunog ang lamesa sa harapan ng sofa kaya nag-angat ako ng tingin at naabutan
si Rai na naglalapag ng first aid kit.
He then began pulling his necktie loose, unbuttoning the cuffs of my dress
shirt and pulled it up to his forearm.
 He sat infront of me, inabot ang braso ko kaya bahagya akong lumapit sa kanya
para hayaan s'ya sa ginagawa.
He opened the kit and sanitize my hand first, nakita ko ang sobrang pamumula
nito dahil sa pagkapaso.
"Rai, sorry..." I murmured while looking at him.
He stopped then stared at me.
"What are you sorry about?"
"For bothering you," I whispered. "Eversince I came into your life, palagi
akong may gulong dala."
"There is nothing to be sorry about, Serafine." He said. "This is not your
fault."
My lips protruded and I sighed.
"You're probably tired from work but here you are, mending my burns."
"I knew it, that people won't do you any good." Mahinang sabi n'ya at pinaling
ang ulo, ibinaba muli ang tingin sa paso ko at nilagyan ng ointment.
"What makes you stay with me?" Wala sa sariling tanong ko habang pinagmamasdan
s'ya.
"I don't know," He murmured then placed the ointment back to the kit and grasp
my fingers.
I gasped when he softly pulled me closer to him, resting his forehead on my
ear.
I felt his breath on my neck, his fingers running back and forth on my palm.
"I just found myself wanting you beside me," He murmured.
"Thank you, Rai." Bulong ko. "For being my safe haven,"
Hindi s'ya umimik, narinig ko ang mahina n'yang paghinga sa tenga ko. I caught
his fingers, pulling his hand softly towards my lips.

I placed a soft kiss on his large hand and I saw him

shifted his gaze and stared at our hands.
Inilahad n'ya ang kamay sa akin, nangingiting ipinatong ko ang kamay ko roon.
"Ang laki ng kamay mo," Tawa ko.
He caught my hand, intertwining it with his.
"Anong size ng paa mo, daddy ko?" Baling ko sa kanya.
He looks distracted at our intertwined hands kaya pinatakan ko s'ya ng halik sa
ilong. That caught his attention, nagkatinginan kaming dalawa.
"Hmm?"
"Sabi ko, anong size ng paa mo?"
"Ten?" He said.
My mouth parted a bit, kumunot ang noo n'ya sa akin.
"Why?"
"Sabi kasi nila kapag malaki ang paa, malaki ang susi--
"Shut up, Serafine." Ungot n'ya at suminangot. I laughed, pinching his nose and
kissing his cheek.
"Pero ano nga, daddy? Totoo ba? Malaki?" Bumaba ang tingin ko sa kanyang pants.
"Fuck," Napahagalpak ako nang itulak n'ya ang noo ko gamit ang daliri n'ya.
"I'm serious here, woman." Ngiwi n'ya.
"H'wag kasing seryoso," Tawa ko. "Ayos nga lang ako."
"What happened to you is no joke," He snorted.
"Naisip ko rin naman na ganoon ang mangyayari sa panloloko ko sa kanila noon
pero hindi ko akalaing ganito kaaga at ganito ang kakahinatnan."
"But they shoudn't do that to you," Aniya. "They shoudn't shamed you infront of
those people, Serafine."
"Nagawa lang nila 'yun sa galit--"
"I will fucking press charges," He said. "Stop protecting them, Sera. They
harassed you infront of those people, they hurt you and I woudn't just let it
pass."
I sighed, hindi na nakaimik dahil mukha na s'yang desidido at may desisyon na.
 Gabi na nang magdecide kaming kumain, I was smiling while watching Rai cooking
our dinner.
I changed my clothes and wore his shirt I saw on his closet.
It looks big on me but it feels homey.
Nakagat ko pa labi ko nang nagluluto s'yang walang pantaas pagbaba ko. He's
just wearing his loose maong pants and barefoot.
I walked towards him and took a glance at the food he's cooking.
"What is it, Rai?" I asked.
"Afritada," Aniya at nilingon ako.
I chuckled and nodded, iniangat n'ya ang sandok at marahang inilapit iyon sa
labi ko pagkatapos itong ihipan para lumamig.
"Here, careful, it's hot." I nodded and smiled.
Tinikman ko ang luto n'ya bago ngumiti at nag-thumbs-up.
"Hands-down," I bowed a bit.
He chuckled, ruffling my hair. Ngumuso ako at tinampal ang kamay n'ya pero
natawa lang s'ya at bahagyang hinuli ang baywang ko.
"Is my baby's arm fine?" He suddenly asked.
"Ayos naman talaga ako," I said softly, staring at my arm.
"We'll put burn ointment again later," He whispered.
I nodded, muli akong sumulyap sa niluluto n'ya bago napanguso.

"Daddy, you know I always gets confused when I see foods

with red or orange sauce like this." I pointed the food.
"Hmm? Why?"
"Dunno, hmm, I get confused with menudo, afritada and giniling. I actually
don't know who's who, basta kakain lang ako."
I saw him smirked and laughed.
"But you know how to cook?"
"Yung mga sosyal na foods syempre hindi but the simple one, yeah, I think." I
murmured.
"Can I eat..."
"What?" I glanced at him.
"You," My mouth parted. He then gave me an evil smile and I slapped his arm.
"Perv!" I exclaimed.
"Wow, Serafine. Coming from you?" Nanliit ang mata n'ya. "Who among the two of
us referred to my friend down there as the key? Huh?"
"Ah!" Natawa na ako roon. "Pero seryoso raw 'yun, naturo sa amin na kung ano
raw ang size ng paa ng lalaki, divide mo sa half tapos plus one, 'yun na 'yung
size."
He froze.
"What the hell? Ayan ang tinuturo sa inyo, Serafine?!" His voice roared.
I laughed harder.
"Na-trivia lang!" I exclaimed.
"Who among them?" Kumunot ang noo n'ya at mukhang seryoso na.
"H'wag naman serious masyado, daddy." Hinaplos ko ang kunot sa kanyang noo.
"I am not joking, Mendez." Iritang sabi n'ya.
"I am not joking, Mendez." I murmured sarcastically, mocking him.
He glared at me. I smiled cutely.
"Char lang, Rai!" Kumapit ako sa leeg n'ya. "Na-trivia nga lang."
"Sino ang nagsabi n'yan?" He demanded.
"Basta nga," I chuckled.
"Hindi ako natatawa, Sera, h'wag mo akong tawanan d'yan." Ngiwi n'ya.
He is genuinely irritated, hinaplos ko ang panga n'ya at hinalikan ng marahan
ang kanyang labi.
He looks stunned, umawang pa ang labi sa gulat pero humalik din pabalik. We
kissed for a few moments until he backed out.
"Hindi..." I saw him swallowed hard while staring at my lips. "Hindi mo ako
madadala sa pahalik-halik mo, Serafine."
Umirap s'ya at pumunta sa may kalan at pinatay ang apoy.
I grinned, humagikhik at humalukipkip.
"Fuck, I want another one." Bigla s'yang bumalik at nawala ang tawa sa akin
nang bigla n'yanh iniangat ang baba ko at inambahan ako ng halik.
I smiled because of the sudden kiss, I put my arms around his nape and pulled
him closer to me.
I tiptoed so I can reach his lips just right, he lowered his head and held my
waist, giving me the access.
We kissed like it's the only thing that matters in the moment, I can feel my
heart thumping. The hidden emotion started resurfacing, shouting how much
attraction I have for him.
He bit my lip and I opened my mouth to let him in, our tongues fought and I
pulled his hair in frustration because I felt like I wanted more of him.
He pulled away, catching his breath. Isinandal n'ya ang noo sa akin at
nagkatinginan kaming dalawa, sabay na naghahabol ng hininga.
"Daddy..." I whispered sensually. "Afritada o ako?"

He licked his reddish lower lip slowly then stared at my

eyes.
"You," He said. "Fuck afritada, I'm gonna eat my baby girl instead."
Napatili ako nang bigla n'ya akong buhatin, his hand supported my ass,
napakapit ako sa kanyang balikat para sa suporta.
"Rai!" I gasped but then stopped by another set of his fiery kisses.
I felt the heat gushing in between my thighs as we stopped in the middle of the
stairs just to exchange hot kisses.
Wala na ako sa sarili at s'ya rin, kanya-kanyang hila kami ng damit habang
buhat n'ya ako paakyat sa hagdan kaya nawalan kami ng balanse.
Mabuti nalang at nakahawak s'ya at mabilis akong napaupo sa step sa kalagitnaan
but that didn't stop our kisses.
We just laughed a bit then stared at each other and kissed like there's no
tomorrow again.
"I can't take you in this damn stairs, baby." He whispered as he kissed neck
and cupping my chest.
"W-Where?" Bulong ko at napapikit.
He cursed when he saw me hurriedly unbuckling his belt.
"Room," He whispered, licking my neck down the valley of my breast.
"F-Fuck, Rai!" I cursed when his lips find its way to my erect peaks.
He sucked it, licked it sensually. My eyes twinkled like a drunk woman when I
saw how his tongue flickered on my peak.
Bumilis ang paghinga ko, hinila ang batok n'ya at mas idinikit s'ya sa balat
ko.
I cupped his bulge, he cursed hardly again and rose to kiss my lips.
"Stop me, baby." He whispered on my lips.
"I-I won't," I whispered, cupping his cheek and stared at him.
"I want to do it, Rai." I whispered.
Like a rubber, he snapped.
He immediately carried me and ran towards his room like it was some kind of
marathon.
"Seriously, Rai! This isn't a race!" I groaned.
"Oh fuck, don't care." Ngisi n'ya at nilapag ako sa kama.
I pouted when I saw him staring at me with my naked glory while lying on his
bed, sabog ang buhok at nakatitig sa kanya.
He licked his lower lip, staring at me like he's planning what to do.
"Wow, engineer, titigan nalang tayo dito?" I spatted.
"Calm down, baby girl." He laughed, kneeling his one knee on the bed.
"Daya naman, belt nga lang nahila ko sa'yo!" I exclaimed.
 He smirked, napalunok ko nang makitang kinalas n'ya ang butones ng pants at
nang makitang nakatitig ako ay tumigil.
"You want huh, Sera?" He said sensually.
"Hmm," I hummed.
He cursed when he saw me helping get rid of his pants, bahagya pa s'yang
suminghap nang matamaan ko ng kamay ang kanya.
"Damn, baby, careful." He whispered.
Parang may deadline ako sa pagmamadali sa aking ginagawa. He stood and I
kneeled infront of him so I can pull his pants down.
"Let me--" Bahagyang lumayo s'ya nang haplusin ko.
"Rai," Irit ko.
"Damn, yes, alright." He closed his eyes tightly.

"Ayaw mo ba?" Nguso ko.

"Of course, I want." He cursed. "I'm just fucking horny, Serafine Veronica."
Nag-init ang pisngi ko sa biglaang sinabi n'ya. Nagkatinginan kami at napalunok
ako.
"E-Eh, bakit ayaw mo patulong? I can help?" Malumanay kong tanong.
"I don't wanna hurt you, being this fucking excited. I might become
aggressive."
"Ay, gusto ko 'yan palaban!" I grinned.
"Damn, woman." He chuckled, kneeling on the bed to capture my lips again.
"Just fuck me, Rai." Bulong ko.
"No fucking, Serafine." He whispered and kissed my cheek. "I'll take this slow,
okay? Help me control it, don't be too aggressive too, my baby, okay?"
"Okay," I smiled. "Don't you like rough sex?"
"Of course I do," His eyes darken more, tinulak ko s'ya paupo sa kama tsaka ako
naupo sa kanyang hita paharap.
"Then why are you this uhm, calm?" I said.
"Damn, Serafine. Being calm is hard, if you still call this being calm." He
covered my back with his palm to support me.
Napatitig ako sa kanya.
"I'll fuck you rough too," He stared at me. "Maybe next time, I just wanted to
take this slow now."
"Okay," I grinned.
"Just help me, I need cooperation from you, Serafine." He murmured.
I nodded like an obedient kid and that made him smile. We kissed again and I
kept on moaning while his mouth is busy pleasuring me.
I saw how his teeth grazed on my underwear, slowly pulling it down, exposing my
bare flesh.
His eyes darken with tbe sight of it, nahiya pa ako ng una pero nang makita ang
nakakapasong mga mata n'ya ay napuno ng confidence ang aking katawan.
"Vioxx! Fuck!" I moaned.
He stared at me, parting my legs more so he can taste me wholly. His brown eyes
resembled that of the lion eating his prey.
A king devouring his most precious riches, my hips keeps moving back and forth
on his lips, moaning loudly when his fingers moved expertly on my core.
He inserted his digit and I grabbed on the sheets to stop myself from feeling
the pain.
Rai hesistated for a while but when he saw how pleasured I am when he began
moving his pace, he inserted another one.
I saw how his tongue maneuvered every waves of pleasure inside of me.
It was cold yet the fire in between us is burning brightly.
"Ahh!" I orgasmed for the second time while he's expertly pleasuring me.
My muffled cries and moans vanished when he lifted his body and kissed my lips
again.
I touched his groin, moving my hand up and down his growing erection. I moved
away from the kiss and stared at his boxers.
"Let's get rid of it," I murmured.
He licked his lip and nodded, napasinghap ako nang tulungan n'ya ako at
bumungad sa akin ang kanya.
Nanlaki ang mata ko at OA na napatakip sa bibig.
"Shit, Vioxx! Ano 'yan, sawa?!" I exclaimed.
Napaubo s'ya.

"Sera!"
"Anaconda ata 'yan--" He stopped me by pushing me back to bed.
He distracted me by his kisses but my hands are stubborn enough to crawl down
his abdomen.
He cursed when I touched his pulsating member.
"Fuck!"
"Subo--"
"Shut up!" He exclaimed.
Nagpigil ako ng tawa nang mamula ang mukha n'ya.
"Sa-suggest lang!" I exclaimed.
"You naughty woman," He shook his head. "You should be punish."
"Oh," I smiled. "Kinky."
"Uh-huh," He licked my jaw and kissed my lips. "Ikaw 'yung ganun, Sera."
"Sus," Tawa ko. "But what's the punishment, huh? What would daddy punish to his
baby girl? Palo sa pwet?" I smiled.
"No moving for you," Umawang ang labi ko nang may nakuha s'yang puting panyo sa
may side table.
He showed it to me, an evil grin on his face.
"Let's tie your hands, Serafine."
Napalunok ako ng marahas nang i-angat n'ya ang aking kamay sa may headboard ng
kama. Hindi manlang ako nagreklamo, I let him do what he wants while I remained
amazed at what is happening.
"How can I touch you now, Rai?"
"You can't, you're being naughty."
"Lungkot na ako!" I exclaimed. Sinipa ko ang paa ko.
Rai laughed and tilted my chin before kissing me hardly on the lips.
"I'll make you happy then," He said and went on top of me to kiss me savagely
again.
I got lost with his kisses, I can feel his hard member near my sensitive spot.
He keeps on teasing me by moving its tip near it.
"Rai...Vioxx..." I called his name.
"Hmm?" He hummed, tila hindi nagsasawa sa pang-aasar at panghahalik.
"J-Just enter me!"
"Calm down," He chuckled, pinirmi ang aking baywang bago lumapit. "This will
hurt big time, are you ready?"
I swallowed hard and nodded.
"Yes..."
I am so damn wet, he's just teasing me but I felt like convulsing. He entered
me slowly and gently, like he's afraid to break whatever it is.
Napaigik ako kaagad nang maramdaman ang dulo 'nun.
"Rai," Kumuyom ang kamay ko pero hindi makagalaw.
"Sshh,"
"Vioxx Ephraim!" I said in frustration when he teased my bud again.
"Don't move, Sera! I'm losing it!" He cursed.
"Just..." I moved my waist and he cursed and touched my waist.
I gasped when I felt the pain, mas pinirmi n'ya ang baywang ko roon.
"Stop fucking moving, Sera!" He insisted. "You'll just get hurt."
"B-But I want--"
"Yes, I'll give it, okay? Just let's calm down." He murmured.
 I didnt listen, I moved my hips more and stopped when I felt him moved so he
can enter me fully.
I shrieked, kumuyom ang kamay ko at nakita ko ang paglambot ng mata ni Rai. He
began kissing my face, distracting me to forget the pain.

"It's okay, baby." He whispered.

"It hurts," I breathe, I felt the tear fell on my eye and he immediately kissed
it.
"I'll move a bit so you can adjust, baby, okay?" Suyo n'ya.
I nodded. He moved a bit more and I flinched.
"You're so damn beautiful, Serafine." He whispered his genuine compliments.
"I-I don't think I am," I whispered back to control the pain.
"You are," He caught my lips. "Try using my eyes to see yourself."
"Why? Hmm?" I smiled na nauwi sa ngiwi sa sakit.
I moved my waist, wrapping my leg on him while he held my butt so he can hold
me comfortably.
"So you can see how beautiful you are in my eyes," He whispered.
It was ecstatic, the pain I felt was immediately replaced by pleasure, lust and
needing for him. I felt whole each time he'll fill me and empty whenever he left.
Pinakawalan n'ya rin ako pagkaraan nang makitang namula ang pulso ko sa tali
kaya niyakap ko ang kanyang batok habang gumagalaw s'ya.
"Vioxx..." Hingal kong bulong.
"Hmm? Yes, baby?" He whispered huskily.
"Faster, baby." I murmured.
Hindi na s'ya umimik, mas humigpit ang kanyang hawak sa hita ko at mas bumilis
ang galaw.
I scratched his back and bit his shoulder to satisfy the intensity I am
feeling. I was moaning non-stop and he uttered curses on my ear, calming himself.
I felt myself convulsed, napakapit ako sa kanya at ilang saglit panh galaw ay
naramdaman ko na rin s'ya.
I felt his warm essence inside me and I closed my eyes tightly as he kissed my
collarbone and my neck.
I felt him slowly moved away from me and my mouth parted at that. My eyes
opened when I felt him kissing my forehead.
"Rai?" I murmured weakly.
"Afritada or me?" He smiled.
I chuckled, hugging his nape and pulled him closer.
"I choose you but I want afritada," I stared at him. "I'm super
hungry...starving, perhaps."
He laughed, kissing my lips again as he pulled the sheets to cover my naked
body.
"Midnight snack on bed?" He chuckled and I nodded.
"Initin mo muna at baka malamig na," Nguso ko.
"Alright, maybe after you got your stregth back, we can..."
"Pagod ako, Ephraim!" I groaned.
He suddenly laughed and pinched my cheek.
"Alright, I was merely suggesting, baby." He smirked.
"Pag-iisipan ko!" Ngiwi ko.
"And here I am, thinking you're tired." He laughed.
"Conservative ako, Engineer!" I exclaimed.
Naupo s'ya sa gilid ko at hinaplos ang buhok ko.
"Hindi ka conservative, marupok ka, Serafine." He teased.
My mouth parted, nang hampasin ko ang braso n'ya ay napatawa na s'ya ng malakas
at dali-daling hinablot ang shirt para tumakbo palabas.
I cleaned myself on his bathroom first, I took a bath using his shower gel and
glance at myself at the mirror.
 What the hell happened, Serafine? Did you just gave
yourself to him?
I sighed, trying to find and feel the regret but I found none. I willingly gave
myself to him, without even doubt and remorse.
Did I like him that much or...am I inlove?
I was almost limping when I got out of the bathroom, nakita ang mabilis na
pagbaba ni Rai ng kanyang phone nang makita ako at tumayo para lapitan ako at
alalayan.
"I'm sorry," He murmured and touched my waist.
I chuckled, kumapit ako sa kanyang braso.
"Why say sorry?"
"I hurt you," He whispered. "I wanted so bad to do you gently yet I failed."
I kissed his cheek, marahang pinaupo n'ya ako sa kama at dinala ang tray ng
pagkain roon.
"Bango!" I cheered when I smelled it.
He sat beside me, putting his arms around my waist and sniffed my hair.
"You used my gel?" I felt him smiled when he kissed my neck.
"Hmm," I nodded. "Okay lang?"
"I like smelling myself on you," He whispered.
I groaned when his breath fanned my neck. Pabiro ko s'yang kinurot doon at
natawa s'ya.
"Anong brand? Bibili ako 'nung gel mo para magkaamoy tayo."
"No need, I like your smell more, I like smelling your scent on my pillow." He
murmured.
Nag-init ang pisngi ko, nang magkatitigan kami ay napaiwas ako sa itsura.
He chuckled, brushing my wet hair with his fingers.
"Am I too clingy, baby?" Maamo n'yang tanong.
"H-Hindi naman," Kinagat ko ang labi para kalmahin ang sarili dahil sa malakas
na kabog ng puso.
"I don't want to scare you, sorry, I was just--"
I kissed his lips and stopped him.
"I think I'm inlove with you," I confessed.
I saw how his jaw dropped, his cheek flushed and turned bright red.
"R-Really?" I saw how his smile slowly appearing but stopping himself.
"Hmm," I stared at him. "I-I actually still don't know if it's true or what? I
mean, how, but--"
He kissed my lips briefly, I saw how happiness danced on his eyes as he cupped
my cheek.
"You're making me so damn happy, fuck." He cursed and chuckled.
Sumubo ko ng pagkain para itago ang kilig.
"Hey," He caught chin and stared at me.
He always have that soft and gentle eyes for me, kahit anong lamig at suplado
n'ya ay kitang-kita ko ang sinseridad.
"Hmm?"
"I'm in--"
His phone rang, natigilan kaming parehas doon. He chose to ignore it until it
stopped but when it rang again, I stared at him and urge him to answer.
"Go, answer it." I smiled.
He sighed, hesitated for a moment but then I nodded.
"I'll be quick," He murmured, kissing my head.
I ate the food he prepared me silently while smiling.
Damn, Serafine! Ang haba ng hair mo!
Natapos na akong kumain pero wala pa rin ang daddy ko kaya tumayo ako sa kama.
I flinched when my part hurt but ginusto ko 'to.
I went to the veranda to check on him, nakita kong may kausap s'ya roon.
Mukhang seryoso at iritado.
"Stop meddling with my business , Alice." Mariing sinabi n'ya.
 I stopped when I heard that familiar name.
"I am doing what I need! Stop telling me about it." His forehead creased and
his tone hardened.
"I will decide what and when to my plans." He said in finality.
I was so confused and curious about that, magtatago sana para makinig pero
natamaan ang hinliliit ko sa pader kaya napasinghap ako.
I cursed inside my head, nagkatinginan kami ni Rai at nakita ko kung paano
nanlaki ang mata n'ya.
He ended the call and stared at me.
"Sera..." He called.
"Sorry, Rai. Uhm, I'm done eating. Sorry for interrupting." I said.
Lumapit s'ya sa akin, hinawakan kaagad ang baywang ko.
"Kanina ka pa?"
"No," I smiled.
He stared at me briefly, caressing my waist and kissed my head.
"Did you hurt your toe?"
"Ayos lang, sino kausap mo?" I asked curiously.
"Alice," He said. "About work."
I slowly nodded, inalalayan n'ya ako paupo ulit sa kama n'ya.
"Sorry baby, I have to go tonight." He said.
"Huh? It's too late, bakit?"
"Urgent," He said. "Work."
"Oh," I nodded. "Sige, uuwi nalang ako--"
"You can stay here, I will be back quickly." Aniya at nakita kong nagtungo s'ya
sa closet para magsuot ng shirt.
"Okay, urgent talaga? Hindi ba pwedeng ipagpabukas?"
"I have to go," Aniya.
I nodded, watching him wear his watch.
"Ingat," I smiled.
He brushed his hair, lumapit s'ya sa akin at inangat ang baba ko para sa isang
halik bago nagpaalam.
"I will be back, promise. I just have to fix this mess." He murmured.
I nodded and smiled, nilagyan n'ya ako ng kumot bago mahigpit na yakapin.
"No girls for daddy, okay?" Paalala ko.
He chuckled, nodding at me.
"No girls," He smirked. "No boys for you too starting today."
"Okay," I cheered.
He kissed me again, natatawa pa ako nang magkalayo ang labi namin at pinitik ko
ang kanyang noo.
"Ang sabik naman sa halik!" I exclaimed.
"You made me do this," He shrugged and teased me.
"Anyway, daddy. Bago ka umalis, nagcompute ako kanina."
"Ng?"
"Size ng susi mo," I grinned.
He pinched my nose, I laughed and smacked his arm.
"Size ten ka, divided by two plus one!" Nanlaki pa ang mata ko. "Edi six--"
"Serafine!" He exclaimed, shutting me up.
Instead, I bursted out laughing, lifting my hand to try and measure it but he
pushed me on the bed, napasigaw pa nang pilit n'ya akong ibinalot sa kumot bago
pagulungin.
It was the happiest night of my life...I thought it was the start of my real
happiness. I silently hoped to have it again and again but I was wrong, I was wrong
all along.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 15
 We're halfway to the story! Enjoy!
PS: Hi, guys! Please let us pray for the safety of people near the affected
areas now because of Taal eruption. Don't forget to wear your masks and stay
indoors. Please, take care of your pets too, kung pwede, ipasok n'yo sa bahay to be
safe.
I am praying for all of you. May God bless us.
xxx
Kabanata 15
"Ate, pagkatapos po ng opera ko po magiging okay na po ako?" I smiled when my
brother asked me while I am preparing him to go to school.
"Oo, Migs." I smiled. "And after you recover, you'll get extra energy kaya
hindi ka mabilis na mapapagod."
"Hindi na po ba ako mabilis na hindi makahinga?"
"No, Migs." I ruffled his hair. "At kapag tuluyan ka nang naging magaling, ako
ang bahala sa'yo. Magkakatrabaho na si Ate at promise ko, magbabakasyon tayo."
"Yehey!" He cheered happily. "Sana po gumaling na ako."
"Gagaling ka, Miggy. Trust me." I murmured.
Pagkalabas namin ng sala ni Migs ay natigil sa pagsisigawan ang Nanay at Tatay.
Turns out, she bought new luxurious looking dresses. Nagdadala rin s'ya ng
nagsusugal rito sa bahay at nakikipagpustahan pa kaya galit na galit si Tatay.
"Hindi pa ako tapos sa inyo!" She exclaimed and walked out.
Tatay sighed, hinilot ang kanyang sentido at pagod na tumingin sa aming
magkapatid.
"Pasensya na mga anak," He smiled sadly.
"Papasok na po kami, Tay." I said.
He nodded, napansin ko ang sobrang pagpayat ng tatay kaya lumapit ako sa kanya
at bahagyang yumakap.
He hugged me back, nakisiksik rin si Miggy kaya marahang niyakap rin s'ya ni
Tatay.
"Tay nagluto na ako ng agahan," I said. "Kain na po kayo bago dalhin ni Nanay
ang mga kasama n'ya."
"Salamat, Sera." He smiled weakly.
"Tay, kumuha rin pala ako ng kaunting ulam para sa baon ko mamaya sa opisina."
I said.
He nodded, kissing our heads, inihatid kami ni Migs sa gate ng pintuan
pagkatapos.
I believe my father can't do that, he can't possibly kill a person. I don't
think so.
Pagkahatid ko palang kay Miggy sa eskwela ay kaagad ko nang nakita ang paglitaw
ni Lando.
"Para ka talagang multo," Natatawang sabi ko.
"Ayaw ko lang na ma-weirduhan ka sa akin, Ma'am." He smiled. "Tsaka ang sabi ni
engineer, baka hindi ka komportable."
"Nasanay na ako," Tawa ko.
Sumunod ako sa kanyang paglalakad at inilahad n'ya sa akin ang kotse.
"I can definitely ride a jeep there," I said.
"Ayaw pumayag ni engineer, Ma'am." Aniya at pinagbuksan ako ng pinto.
I laughed, shaking my head and entered the car.
To: Daddy six inches
Hello, daddy! Morning! Musta ang susi natin d'yan?
Natawa ako nang wala pang ilang segundo ay may message na s'ya.
From: Daddy six inches
If I'm not in a meeting, woman, I'm telling you. Kanina pa kita hinalikan d'yan.
I giggled, mabilis na tumipa.

To: Daddy six inches

Daming satsat, kiss nalang agad! :-* Tsaka, na-try mo na ba, i-measure, Rai?
From: Daddy six inches
Your measurent is inaccurate, I am telling you.
To: Daddy six inches
Weh? Nasukat mo?
From: Daddy six inches
No.
To: Daddy six inches
Paano mo nasabi? Kung ganoon? Sabi ko naman kasi sa'yo, i-ruler natin!
From: Daddy six inches
I just know it, Serafine. No need to fucking measure it.
To: Daddy six inches
So...ilan?
From: Daddy six inches
Kumain ka na?
To: Daddy six inches
Amswer meeeeeh!!!! :(((((( Ilan nga?
From: Daddy six inches
Secret :p
To: Daddy six inches
Bad daddy!!!
"Ma'am, dito na po tayo." I glanced at Lando at doon ko natantong nandito na
kami sa opisina ni Rai.
My internship have started a week now, wala pa si Rai noong unang araw ko pero
nung ikatlo ay nandito na.
So far, my experience is great and peaceful.
My co-interns and employees are good. Alam kong pamilyar ang iba sa akin dahil
doon sa ganap namin ni Rai sa HR pero wala silang sinasabi.
"Mauuna ako sa taas, Lando." I said when we reached the parking.
"Sige po, Ma'am." Aniya at hinayaan akong pumasok.
As much as I want, ayokong may nakakaalam ng mayroon kami ni Rai. I mean, yes,
we have something, hindi ko lang malinaw kung ano. Ayokong malaman nilang may
bodyguard ako o sasakyan na naghahatid sa akin t'wing papasok galing sa engineer.
I want my co-interns comfortable with me, lalong-lalo na at hindi sila masama
sa akin. They are actually good people, at masaya ako na hindi ko kailangang
manloko tungkol sa estado ng buhay ko para lamang mapabilang sa pagkakaibigan nila.
"Sera!" I chuckled when one of my closest employee on the firm, Trisha called
me.
"Hello, morning!" I chuckled.
"Baklang 'to! Ano, 'yung order ko?" Kumapit s'ya sa braso ko.
We walked towards my office table, katapat lang ng opisina ni Rai.
"Nasabi ko na, idedeliver daw sa sunod na araw kasama 'yung order ni Sir Roff."
I said.
Inilapag ko ang gamit ko sa table at sumulyap sa opisina ni Rai. My co-interns
were assigned here too, tatlo kami rito sa main office samantalang ang iba ay sa
iba't-ibang unit ng firm.
I saw Marco on the other side of the office, kaagad s'yang ngumiti sa akin at
kumaway.
I waved back and smiled, kinurot naman ni Trisha ang baywang ko kaya nilingon
ko s'ya.
"Hmm?"
"Ang pogi talaga ni Marco!" She exclaimed.
"Pogi talaga 'yan," Tawa ko at naupo. She pulled the swivel and sat beside me.
"Eh, kayo ni Engineer, kumusta?" She grinned.
My eyes widen and I immediately shook my head.
"Wala, uhm, mayroon ba?" I murmured.
She chuckled amd smacked my arm.
"Patola ka! Nakita ko 'yung titigan n'yo 'nung nakaraan! Tsaka, nagpapadala
iyon ng pagkain sa'yo t'wing lunch!" Aniya.
 My heart skipped a beat, ngumuso ako at umiling.
"He's just a good man--"
"Sus! Oo, mabait pero never kong nakitang nagpadala 'yan ng lunch sa empleyado
o intern!" She whispered.
"Hoy, anong usapan 'yan, pwede ba 'yan kung office hours?" Supladong lumitaw si
Sir Roff kaya sabay kaming napatawa ni Trisha.
"Morning, Sir." I grinned. He's the head internship coordinator.
He eyed me seriously, pilit din akong nagseryoso pero natawa nang pasimple
s'yang lumingon sa paligid at sinipa ang paa ko.
"Ma'am kasi diba?" He said in a low whisper.
"Lalaki ka kaya, Sir." I said.
Trisha laughed, sinimangutan s'ya ni Sir Raff at muli akong sinipa.
"Kapag tayong tatlo lang, diba dapat, Ma'am?" Iritado n'yang sabi. "Bitch ka,
Serafine?"
Napalakas ang tawa ko, napansin kong nagtinginan sa amin ang ibang tao sa
opisina kaya ibinaba ko ang ulo ko at tumikhim.
"Mapapagalitan ako nito," I murmured. "Bakit ba kayong nanditong dalawa?"
I am never this comfortable with friends. Close ko noon sina Gino pero alam ko
sa sarili kong hindi ko kailanman masasabi sa kanila ang totoong ako dahil ayaw
kong mahusgahan.
Si Kikay lang ang tunay kong naging kaibigan and when I met Trisha and Sir
Roff, the employees here in the firm, I realized it's better to have friends who'd
never judge you regardless of your social status.
"Magtatanong nga ko ng order," Ani Sir Roff na kinuha ang excess chair doon at
naupo rin sa tabi ko. He pulled out the brochure on my table and showed it to me.
"Hoy, Sera. Na-curious ako rito sa supplement na nandito!" He exclaimed.
"Why?" I asked.
"Nakakalaki raw ito ng boobs?" Aniya.
I laughed, nakita kong nacurious din si Trisha at nakisilip.
"Seryoso? Gusto ko 'yan! Para lumaki ang mga dyoga!" She exclaimed.
Pigil akong napatawa sa reaksyon nilang dalawa.
Kikay introduced me to online selling, well, it helped me a lot as an extra
income since marami akong orders na natanggap. Isa na rito ang ganitong orders.
"Oh, 'yan? Sabi ni Kikay effective." I said.
"Gusto ko mag-order!" Ani Sir Roff. Natawa ako sa kanya.
"Papalaki kang boobs?" I asked. "Pwede ba?"
"Oo naman!" He rolled his eyes at me. "Kailangan ko maging maganda na!"
Trisha then showed me the picture of the supplement.
"Sera, ayos lang ba kung isang bote lang ang bibilhin?" Aniya.
"Ay, hindi." I shook my head. "Dapat dalawa, kapag isang bote lang, isang
dibdib lang lalaki, 'yung kabila maliit pa rin."
"Oh, sige! Dalawang bote." Aniya.
Kinuha ko ang notebook roon para ilista ang order 'nung dalawa.
"Hoy, pati 'yung dalawang push-up bra!" Ani Trisha.
"Oo, sige." I said.
"Isn't talking during office hours prohibited?" Sabay-sabay kaming napatayo at
nagulat nang makita si Alice Tan na nakatayo sa may tabi namin.
"Ma'am!" Sir Roff and Trish panicked.
Huminga ako ng malalim at bahagyang yumukod din.
"Pasensya na, Ma'am." Mahinang sabi ko.

She eyed me sharply, staring at me from my feet up my face,

the smirk on her face is visible.
"I still don't get it why my fianceè would hire someone like you in his
company." She spatted.
Nanatili akong tahimik, napansin ko ang tensyon kay Sir Roff at Trisha, gustong
sumabat pero nanatiling tahimik.
"Pasensya na, Engineer Tan. Kami po 'yung lumapit kay Sera--"
"Don't be unprofessional, Miss Mendez." Sa halip ay baling n'ya sa akin.
"Sorry po," I whispered, lowering my head.
"What's the matter, Alice?" Kumalabog ang puso ko at doon na ako nagpanic.
"Chairwoman!" Sabay na sabi ni Sir Roff at Trisha bago tumungo. I bowed too to
show my respect, my heart started pounding.
"Tita," Alice called. "Nothing, I was just lecturing these people. They're
talking during office hours which is prohibited." Maamong sabi nito.
Mrs. Miranda stared at us with her cold eyes. Kumalabog ang puso ko at mabilis
na kumuyom ang kamay nang magkatinginan kami.
"Pasensya na Engineer Tan, chairwoman. Hindi na po mauulit." Sir Roff
apologized in behalf of us.
"You may go," She said coldly.
Sir Roff and Trisha left, nag-aalangan pang umalis dahil sa akin pero ngumiti
lang ako at tumango kaya wala na silang nagawa.
The chairwoman and Alice remained infront of me, nanatili akong nakatayo roon
at bahagyang nakatungo.
"Pasensya na po, hindi na po mauulit--"
"I won't tolerate this kind of unprofessionalism, Miss Mendaez." Her cold voice
stopped me.
"Ma'am--"
"Not because my son hired you to train here in our company does not mean you
could do whatever you like." She spatted coldly.
I felt the pain on my heart, huminga ako ng malalim doon at sumagot.
"Hindi na po mauulit," I murmured.
"I always question my son's choices," She spatted. "I wonder why he's wasting
his time to someone just to drop her like a hot potato in the end?"
Nangilid ang luha ko pero hindi ako nagpakita ng kahinaan sa kanila. They're
lying, I know Rai will stay with me like he always promise.
"Don't feel entitled, woman." She said and smiled at me coldly. "You are just
his slut."
I saw the winning grin on Alice's face and they both left without hesitation,
leaving me dumbfounded and hurt.
Naging tahimik ang buong opisina pagkaalis ng dalawa, I noticed their stares at
me, nagtataka at gustong makiusyoso pero walang nagtangka.
Lunch came and still Rai is on the site meeting, hindi ko rin maaninag kung
saan si Lando at nang mag-aya ang mga kasamang kumain sa pantry ay nagtungo kami
roon.
"Are you alright?" Hinawakan ni Marco ang braso ko. Napalingon ako sa kanya at
ngumisi.
"Oo naman, bakit hindi?" I said cheerfully.
Tumitig s'ya sa akin, I heard him sighed and shook his head.
"You know it isn't good to always hide the pain, right?" He cocked his head.
I nodded slowly, licking my lower lip and sighed.
"Ayos lang talaga ako, Marco." Mahinang sabi ko.
"Sera..." He called. "Just tell me if you can't do this anymore, okay?"
"Do what?" I asked.
"Ito, nagpapanggap na ayos ka kahit hindi." Aniya.

"Pero ayos naman--"

"My Mom and I are always here for you," He said, stopping me. "We're always at
your back, Sera."
I smiled and nodded at him.
"Thank you," Mahinang sabi ko. "I owe this to the both of you."
 "No, we owe this one to you." He said, ruffling my hair.
Ang gulo namin sa pantry, muling sumaya at gumaan ang loob nang makitang
natutuwa sila sa ulam na dala ko.
"Ang sarap naman nito, Sera." Ani Claudine, isa sa mga empleyado.
"Kaninang umaga ko lang 'yan niluto," Tawa ko.
Nag-agawan sila sa ulam na niluto ko, natatawa pa ako nang magkaubusan pa.
"Ito, hati-hati tayo sa lahat ng ulam." Ani Sir Roff at nagsilabasan rin sila
ng tupperware.
Parang may mini-fiesta sa pantry dahil sa iba't-ibang ulam na pinagsasaluhan
galing sa amin. Kanya-kanyang baon at paghahatian namin kaya marami kaming ulam.
"Bakit n'yo ako inubusan 'nung kay Sera?" Simangot ni Marco sa tabi ko.
I laughed at his reaction.
"Masarap nga kasi," Ani Trisha.
"Ang daya, gusto ko 'yun kainin." Ngiwi ni Marco.
"Ako nalang kainin mo?" Ani Trisha.
Napatawa kami nang mamula si Marco at humagalpak ng tawa sina Trisha at ang iba
naming kasamahan.
"Yung ulam kasi," Ngiwi ni Marco para mawala ang tawanan.
"Oh, simutin mo nalang." I laughed, getting the tupperware. Inilagay ko ang mga
tirang ulam na niluto ko sa plato nang nakasimangot na si Marco.
"Daya naman, sa akin 'yung tira-tira?" He said sadly.
Mas nagtawanan sila kay Marco, nailing naman ako roon.
"H'wag ka mag-alala, lulutuan kita ng ulam bukas." I said.
Nagliwanang ang mata n'ya roon.
"Oh, uhm, Engineer!" Halos matapon ko ang tupperware na hawak nang sabay-sabay
na napatayo ang mga kasama ko sa table.
My eyes widen, mabilis na lumingon sa likuran at nahuli ko ang iritadong mukha
ni Rai pagpasok.
Marco held my hand to get the empty tupperware I am holding. Napatayo rin ako
roon pero nahuli ko kung paano naiwan ang titig ni Rai sa kamay ni Marco.
"Good noon, Engineer! Kain po!" Trisha said.
"Good noon," Rai's cold voice and small smile stopped me.
"Kain, engineer. Masarap iyong ulam na luto ni Sera." Ani Sir Roff.
Shit...
"I see," He nodded, glancing at me and the man beside me, his jaw clenched a
bit.
"Kain po!" Sabi nila pero umiling lang si Rai.
"No, I just dropped by to get a mug." He said.
Oh, diba may mug sa opisina n'ya?
"Go, just eat. I'll go after getting it." Ani Rai at dumiretso sa may cabinet
roon.
Nagsiupo ang mga kasama ko pero nanahimik, I curiously stared at Rai's back as
he walked gracefully towards the cabinet and opened it without giving much effort.
Wow huh, eh hindi ko nga mabuksan kaagad ang cabinet kasi mataas!
I stared at his lean back as he lift his arm to check on the mug, nawala lang
ang atensyon ko nang sikuhin ako ni Trisha at bumulong.

"Ang gwapo-gwapo ni Engineer! Masarap ba 'yan, Sera?" She

whispered.
My eyes widen, siniko ko s'ya.
"Trisha," I warned.
"What?" She chuckled. "Gwapo eh, sarap jowain--"
"Akin 'yan!" I hissed. "Akin, akin."
I froze when I noticed the stares, nanlaki ang mata ko nang matanto iyon at
nang lingunin ko si Rai ay nakataas ang kilay sa akin.
I cleared my throat.
"I-I mean...'yung mug, Engineer." Turo ko sa hawak n'ya. "A-Akin 'yan."
 He smirked, I noticed his playful eyes as he took another unused mug, dalawa na
ang hawak.
"This is yours?" Turo n'ya sa isa pang hawak.
"O-Opo," I nodded, blushing.
"Oh," He nodded, akala ko'y ibabalik ang mug pero umiling s'ya. "Go get it in
my office, then."
He left, nagsitilian ang mga kasama ko at hinagisan ako ng plastic ni Trisha at
ni Sir Roff.
Pagkatapos ng lunch ay napuno ako ng asaran, tahimik na umiiling lang ako at
sinabing wala iyong malisya pero nang-aasar pa rin ang dalawa.
"Hoy, Sera, iba na 'yan, ah?" Tawa ni Trisha.
"Wala nga 'yun," I said.
Hinatid nila ako sa desk ko, inayos ko ang mga papeles roon pero kaagad na
natigilan nang tumunog ang intercom.
"Miss Mendez?" I heard Rai's secretary.
"Hello, yes po?" I asked, checking the papers needed for photocopying.
"Pinapatawag po kayo ni Engineer, Ma'am." Aniya.
My heart leaped.
"P-Po? Bakit?"
"Mug daw po," Aniya.
"Oh...okay." I nodded.
I stood, fixing my blouse and my fitted skirt, naglakad ako patungo sa opisina
ni Rai.
I caught Trisha and Sir Roff staring at me maliciously, si Sir ay inangat pa
ang kamay at nag-aktong naghahalikan kaya umawang ang labi ko at pinanlakihan s'ya
ng mata.
Sinalubong kaagad ako ng secretary ni Rai pagpasok ko sa opisina. Nakasarado
ang blinds ni Rai.
"Pasok po, Ma'am." Ani nito.
"Thanks," I said and smiled.
He opened the door for me, pumasok ako roon sa opisina at kaagad na nakagat ang
labi nang maabutan si Rai na nakasandal sa kanyang swivel at nakatitig sa akin.
I smiled at him, lumapit ng mabilis at kumaway.
He rolled his eyes and closed his eyes.
Natawa ako at umiling.
"Arte," I commented.
He groaned a bit, humalukipkip pa habang nakapikit at nakasandal sa swivel.
I walked closer to him and touched his cheek.
"Daddy..." I called. Kumunot ang noo n'ya pero hindi nagmulat.
I chuckled, mabilis na pinisil ang kanyang ilong at tinakpan ang kanyang bibig.
Hindi pa s'ya gumalaw ng ilang segundo pero nang mamula na ang mukha n'ya dahil
hindi na makahinga ay mabilis n'yang hinila ang baywang ko.
I laughed hard when he pulled me, nabitawan ko ang kanyang ilong at bibig at
bumagsak ako ng upo sa kanyang kandungan.

"Rai!" I called.
"You brat," He groaned.
I shook my head, umayos ako ng upo sa kandungan n'ya bago bahagya s'yang
nilingon.
"Saan na mug ko?" I asked.
"Walang may-ari ng mug, Serafine." Iritado n'yang sabi.
Natawa ako, he forced his face on my neck and I tilted my face and let him. He
wrapped his hand on my waist, placing his palm firmly on my stomach.
"Bakit nga pala ako nandito?" I asked.
"Does it taste good?" Iritado n'yang tanong kaya napatawa na ako sa kanya.
"Seriously, Rai?" I asked.
"Answer me, Serafine."
 "Lunch ko? Oo." I smiled. "Kumain ka na ba?"
Nilingon ko s'ya.
"No," He raised his brow.
"Weh?" I asked, umayos ako ng upo at hinawakan ang kanyang panga. "Bakit hindi
ka pa kumakain?"
"I don't want to eat,"
"Why?" I asked. "Sure ka? Ano, bilhan kita sa cafeteria?"
"Ayaw," Muling niyakap n'ya ako at sumiksik sa leeg ko.
"Bakit?" I asked, I got distracted when he gave me tiny kisses on my shoulder.
"I want the foods you cooked."
"Wala akong naluto, ubos na. Paano 'yun, kailangan mo kumain." I murmured.
"Yeah, and you'll cook something for that boy yet you can't cook your boyfriend
lunch."
"B-Boyfriend?" My mouth parted, walang reaksyon si Rai at hinawi pa ang buhok
ko para halik-halikan ang batok ko.
I smacked his leg, natigil s'ya roon.
"What?" He whinned.
"What are you doing?" I murmured.
"Why? I can't kiss my girlfriend now?" Reklamo n'ya. "Hindi na nga ako nilutuan
ng lunch, bawal pa humalik?"
Napakurap ako roon, kumalabog ang puso ko at marahas na napalunok.
"T-Tayo na ba, Rai?" I asked, still in shock.
"Ayaw mo ba?" Natigil s'ya.
Hinarap ko s'ya, gulat.
"Seriously?"
"Why the heck I'd kiss you and make love to you if I am not serious?" He raised
his brow.
Bigla akong natawa, hindi makapaniwala. Hinawakan ko ang kanyang pisngi at
kinurot.
"T-Totoo? Pero bakit hindi ka nanligaw?" I suddenly asked at biglang nairita.
"Hindi ka seryoso sa akin?" I spatted, biglang tinampal ang pisngi n'ya.
"Aww," Ngiwi n'ya. "How easy for you to switch emotions, huh? Moody."
"Hindi ka seryoso sa akin, Miranda?" I spatted.
He closed his eyes, suppresing his smile. Sa pagmulat n'ya at inabot n'ya ang
baba ko at inilapit ang mukha ko para patakan ng halik ang labi ko.
"Courtship won't end because of a label, baby." Aniya. "Courtship is not just
before you said yes to be my girl, it also comes after and during the relationship.
Hindi porket sinagot na ay hindi na manunuyo."
"Ang makata naman pala ng six inches ko--"
"Serafine!" He groaned.
I laughed.

"Pero ano, hindi mo pa naman ako tinatanong? Kung gusto

kong maging jowa mo?"
He stopped.
"A-Ayaw mo?" He blinked.
"No!" His eyes widen. "I mean, ask me."
"Ayaw mo ba sa akin?" His voice soften.
"No, shit, I mean, ask me." I said.
"Will I hear rejections now?" He sighed. "Just don't be too harsh--"
"Just ask me, Miranda!" I groaned.
He sighed, biting his lip and stared at my eyes.
"Will you be my girlfriend?" He murmured, lifting my hand and kissing the back
of it. "Please say yes, I want you to be my girlfriend. Please?"
My heart raced, nangilid ang luha ko habang nakatingin sa malambing n'yang mga
mata.
I gasped.
 "Seryoso?"
"Damn yes," He said. "Kahit wala akong lunch."
I chuckled, halos magwala ang puso ko roon. I nodded at him repeatedly, cupping
his cheek to kiss his lips.
He kissed me back, lumayo lang ako nang pagdikitin n'ya ang noo namin.
"Tell me please, I wanna hear it."
"Yes," I smiled. "I want to be your girl."
He smiled widely. Natawa pa ako nang mahigpit n'ya akong yakapin at paulit-ulit
na pinatakan ng halik ang ulo ko.
"Thank you! Thank you!" He whispered. "Stay here, let's celebrate."
I chuckled, lumayo ako at sinuklay ang kanyang buhok.
"I have work to do, engineer." I pouted. "I have to photocopy papers."
"Do it here, then." Aniya at hinawi ang buhok ko.
"Hindi pwede, nasa labas ang xerox." I said.
He immediately pushed the intercom and spoke to his secretary.
"Yes po?"
"Please bring the xerox machine inside my office," Utos n'ya.
My eyes widen.
"Vioxx Ephraim!" I groaned.
"Now," Ani nang pasaway na engineer.
"Sige po," Aniya.
Binatukan ko s'ya matapos n'yang kausapin ang engineer at ngumisi lang s'ya sa
akin.
I almost shook my head when his secretary and Lando went inside to transfer the
xerox machine. Nasapo ko ang noo at nangingisi lang si Rai.
"Kindly get the papers on her table for photocopy, please."
"Okay po, engineer." Sumaludo pa si Lando at halos sabunutan ko si Rai na
tuwang-tuwa roon sa ginagawa.
Tumayo ako at inabot ang mga papel, nang makalabas ang dalawa ay nagtungo ako
sa machine.
Rai stalked me quietly, nakikitulong pa roon sa pag-aayos ng papel.
"Seriously, engineer?" I raised my brow.
"What?" He blinked innocently.
Natawa nalang ako at nailing. Nang mailagay ang ise-xerox ay automatic itong
kinuha ng machine isa-isa para makopya.
Namaywang ako habang nag-aantay sa dami ng mga papel na ise-xerox at natigil
lang nang yumakap si Rai sa likuran ko at bumulong.
"Wanna know how long?" He whispered.

Nanlaki ang mata ko roon at nilingon s'ya.

"Hahayaan mo na ako isukat?!" I exclaimed.
He looks embarassed but then cleared his throat and nodded.
Napahagalpak ako ng tawa at pumalakpak.
"Game!" Dinamba ko s'ya.
A week without my boyfriend is making me sad, madalang kaming makapag-usap
dahil sa magkaibang oras sa Pinas at sa bansa kung nasaan s'ya.
He had to go for a big project abroad, nag-aasikaso rin s'ya nang panibagong
branch ng Casa Amara kaya sobrang abala s'ya.
We chat and make calls sometimes. Hindi nga lang palagi dahil alam kong puyat
s'ya at madaling-araw na sa kanila kapag tumatawag s'ya.
These days, hindi na kami nakakapag-usap. Na-busy na rin ako sa unibersidad
dahil may thesis at finals na.
"Tara na, Ma'am." Ani Lando.
I smiled and nodded, pumasok ako sa sasakyan at kaagad na naupo roon. Pumasok
din si Lando at nagtaka ako nang may i-abot s'ya sa akin.
"Ano 'to?"
"Pinapabigay po ni engineer," He said.
 I nodded, I opened the envelope and gasped when I saw a card inside. Nilingon
ko si Lando na hindi umimik at binasa ang letter ni Rai roon.
Baby, this card has no limit. Use this if you need to buy things.
My eyes widen, tumitig ako sa hawak na card at nakitang pangalan ko ang
nakalagay roon.
What the heck?
"Lando, kailan ang uwi ni Rai?" I glanced at him.
"Hindi ko po sigurado, Ma'am. Kailan po ba ang sabi sa inyo?"
"Sabi n'ya sa susunod na linggo pa pero walang date," I said.
"Busy po siguro sa proyekto," Aniya.
I nodded.
"Banyo muna ako sa loob? Saglit lang, balik ako kaagad." I said.
He nodded, lumabas ako sa kotse at bumalik sa building ng opisina para
magbanyo. It's already late, sarado na nga ang banyo sa ibaba kaya sa opisina ako
nagtungo dahil bukas pa.
Iilan nalang ang tao sa floor at kadalasan ay ang mga guard lang.
Pumasok ako at saglit na nagbanyo, sinubukang i-chat si Rai pero hindi s'ya
online.
Why did he gave me this?
I sighed, lumabas ng banyo pero kaagad na natulos sa kinatatayuan nang makita
sa hindi kalayuan ang pagpasok ni Rai sa opisina.
My eyes widen, nangiti ako, pupuntahan na sana s'ya pero nakita ko si Alice
kasunod n'ya.
My forehead creased, napaatras ako at nagtago ng bahagya para hindi nila
makita.
They walked to the empty hallway towards the office. Nangunguna si Rai at
nagmamadali sa kakasunod si Alice Tan sa kanya, mukha silang nagtatalo.
Nagtataka akong naglakad patungo sa kanila. Hindi ko alam pero tila may
nagtutulak sa aking sumunod.
I quietly followed them, nagtungo sila sa opisina ni Rai. The whole office is
dim now, lahat ng empleyado ay nakauwi na.
I walked towards his office, my heart is pounding hard.
Ngayon ko lang silang magkasamang muli. He did go back, bakit hindi n'ya sinabi
sa akin?
I heard their voices, hindi ko makuha ang mga sinasabi kaya lumapit ako at
mabuti nalang ay naiwan nilang bukas ng kauti ang pintuan.

I sighed, bahagyang nagtago at sumilip.

"Why are you so stupid, Vioxx?! Diba, sinabi ko naman sa'yo? Walang kwenta ang
pagsunod mo sa babaeng 'yun!"
"Stop meddling with my business, Alice." Rai said coldly.
"Hindi ako nakikialam! Pinapaalala ko lang sa'yo dahil nalilibang ka na sa
babaeng 'yan!"
"H'wag mong isasali si Serafine dito!"
"Eh, bakit hindi?! Sa kanya naman nagsimula, diba?!" She spatted. "Nauuto ka
naman sa babaeng iyon! He's just fooling you to hide his criminal father!"
My mouth parted, napahawak ako sa dibdib ko at hindi makahinga.
They knew?
"She can't fool me, Alice." Malamig na sabi ni Ephraim. "Don't meddle with my
business with her--"
"Wow, Vioxx! At kakampihan mo pa ang babaeng iyon? Ano bang ginawa n'yan at--"
"I am just using her!" He groaned and that stopped me.
"Using?" She laughed. "For what, huh? For your hunger--"
"I am fucking using her just to watch her father! Pinapasundan ko s'ya!" Sigaw
n'ya.
Natulala ako, nakita ko kung paano umigting ang panga ni Ephraim sa galit.
"Para saan?" Alice mocked.
 "Pinapabantayan ko ang tatay n'ya." Giit ni Rai. "You think I'll stick to her
because I like her?" He laughed a bit.
"Bakit?! Hindi ba?! I saw how you--"
"That's disgusting, Engineer Tan." Mariing sabi nito. "I would never stick to
her because I like her, hindi ganoon iyon kababaw. She's far from the girls I
liked."
"So..." I saw how Alice smirked. "You're only using her to check on his father?
Para hindi makatakas?"
"You think she'll just stay here if she knew I am looking after his father,
huh? Kung hindi ko s'ya nilalapitan, sa tingin mo ay mananatili s'ya?"
"Hindi--"
"That's it! She's staying because she thinks I like her! She likes my money
then I will give it to her! Wala akong pakialam, ang mahalaga ay mahuli ang tatay
n'ya."
Napatungo ako, naramdaman ko ang pagpatak ng luha sa pisngi ko at ang pagsikip
ng puso ko.
"So, she's just a slut--"
"Yes, she is a slut!" He groaned angrily.
I nodded slowly, biting my lip to supressed my sobs.
"If she fucking know I am looking for her father, aalis s'ya...kasama ang tatay
n'ya. You think we can catch the one responsible for Akisha's death?"
"I knew it," Alice chuckled a bit. "Sino nga naman ang babaeng 'yun para
mabaliw ka, diba? Shit, I knew it. You're just fooling her."
Rai's jaw clenched, I saw how he gritted his teeth, looking away. Kumuyom ang
kanyang kamay.
"She's after your money--"
"Yes, she is." Rai said coldly. "She's after the money, why not take advantage
of that, then? I can monitor his father if she's close to me."
Mukhang namangha si Alice at napailing.
"I really thought you liked her," She shook her head. "Damn, Vioxx, I salute
you--"
"Don't meddle in my damn business with that woman, Engineer Tan." Mariin at
galit na sabi ni Ephraim.
"Alright," She chuckled, looking so relax now.
"She's nothing, just a toy to play because I'm bored. I am just using her for
the damn case." He said coldly.
"Okay," Alice smirked. "You never liked her, right? Sa akin ka magpapakasal,
diba?"
"Who'd like a gold-digger like her, anyway?" Seryosong sabi nito, walang
reaksyon ang mga mata at halatang galit.
Alice chuckled, nakita ko kung paano n'ya lapitan si Rai at yakapin. Rai
remained standing like a post, unmoving, staring at somewhere coldly.
"Ako lang papakasalan mo, diba?" Lambing ni Alice.
I took a step back, hinayaan kong mabuhos ang luha sa pisngi ko at
nagmamadaling lumabas ng opisina. I went to the bathroom and hid myself in a
cubicle, covering my mouth to stop my sobs but ended up crying loudly.
I shook my head in disappointment for myself.
"Stupid," I whispered and pulled my hair. "Y-You're so stupid, Serafine."
I sniffed and cried, realizing that in this world, no one could ever love me
because I am just...me.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 16

Kabanata 16
"Hindi mo 'yun kawalan, Sera." Kikay sighed.
 "I just thought there's something between us," I whispered.
Huminga ako ng malalim, pilit na hinahawi ang mga luha ko.
"Don't cry, he doesn't deserve your tears." Nang yakapin ako ng kaibigan ay mas
napaluha lang ako.
I hugged her back and sniffed, trying my best not to make any noise.
"G-Galing mo mag-advice," I tried joking.
"Hayop ka, Serafine." Tumawa s'ya, medyo naiiyak na rin. "Napapa-english tuloy
ako! Shit, dudugo na 'yung ilong ko."
I chuckled, sniffing. Lumayo ako sa kanya at hinawi ng kaibigan ko ang mga luha
ko.
"H'wag kang papaapekto. H'wag kang iiyak sa ganyang klaseng lalaki." Aniya.
I nodded, biting my lip.
"I-I'm Serafine Mendez, sino ba s'ya?" I murmured, trying to be strong. "He's
nothing too."
"Tama!" She exclaimed. "Tama 'yan, Sera. The Sera I know is strong, ikaw pa
ba?"
"I'm strong...sino ba s'ya, huh? He's just a stupid, ugly piece of shit." I
gritted my teeth.
"Ugly...Sure ka, 'te?" Sinilip ako ni Kikay.
Kumunot ang noo ko, tinulak ko ang noo n'ya kaya tumawa s'ya.
"Joke lang, Sera. Kung pangit s'ya, edi pangit! Aanhin mo ang ka-gwapuhan kung
manloloko, diba?" Aniya.
I sighed, muli kong niyakap ang unan at sumandal sa haligi ng bahay.
"Anong balak mo? Will you quit? Leave his firm?" Ani Kikay sa akin.
"No," I shrugged, pinag-iisipan ko na ito. "Bakit ako aalis?"
"Because you're hurt?" Takang tanong n'ya.
Muli akong umiling at binasa ang labi ko.
"Hindi ako aalis dahil hindi s'ya ang pinunta ko roon, Kikay." I murmured. "I
am having my internship there, bago pa s'ya dumating, may pangarap na ako. If he
hurt me, it doesn't mean my dreams will stop with him."
Bumilog ang kanyang bibig, napailing ako nang pumalakpak s'ya.
"Miss Universe!" She exclaimed. I smiled, shaking my head.
"I'm just being practical, kung aalis ako, saan ako mag-iintern? Intership on
his company will make a big difference in my credentials. Kapag naka-graduate ako,
magkakaroon ako ng magagandang offer, makakatulong 'yun para sa akin, sa pamilya
ko."
"Eh, paano mo s'ya pakikitunguhan?" She asked. "Like normal?"
"I don't think I still can act normal with him around, Kikay." I murmured.
"Hindi ko kayang pakisamahan s'ya kagaya ng dati."
"So...anong gagawin mo?"
"Acting casual, like how an intern treats her boss. Bahala s'yang mag-isip kung
anong mayroon sa akin, wala akong pakialam sa kanya."
"At ang card na binigay n'ya sa'yo?" Tumaas ang kilay n'ya.
"Gagamitin ko, akin 'yun." Tuso kong sabi. "It has my name there so...I have
the right to take it."
Ngumisi s'ya at siniko ako.
"Ganyan ang Sera na kilala ko, palaban!" Tawa n'ya.
"Kung tuso s'ya, mas tuso ako. He fooled me and I'll fool him too. Ano ngayon
kung gastusin ko? I'm a gold digger anyway." Tumalim ang tingin ko.

"Kaunting tiis nalang naman, Sera." Aniya. "Malapit na ang

semester matapos, 'yung susunod saglit na rin naman kasi graduating ka na."
"Kaya ko naman siguro 'no?" I stared at her.
Walang pagdadalawang-isip s'yang tumango at nag-thumbs-up.
"Oo naman, Serafine pa ba?!" She cheered.
The next morning, my phone woke me up. Mabilis ko iyong kinapa sa tabi ko at
nangunot ang noo ko nang sunod-sunod ang pag-vibrate.
 It's my off today, wala ring pasok sa university at nag-excuse muna ako sa firm
para makapagpahinga sa mahabang araw.
Migs left early, inihatid ng nag-babantay sa kanya kasabay ang kapatid ni Kikay
kaya bumalik ako sa pagtulog.
I stopped and smiled bitterly when I saw who the caller was.
From: Daddy six inches
Morning, baby.
From: Daddy six inches
I went home last night, sorry if I didn't visit you. May ginawa lang ako.
Kumuyom ang kamay ko, mabilis na nagpunta sa contacts at iniba ang pangalan
n'ya.
From: Engr. Miranda
Hindi ka papasok? I'm here in the office. I got gifts for you.
From: Engr. Miranda
Lando said you're still sleeping. Are you okay? Can I drop by to check on you?
From: Engr. Miranda
You're probably sleeping. Sorry for being clingy, I just missed you. Please, text
me if you woke up.
Ibinaba ko ang phone at nanatiling nakatitig sa kisame. I keep on remembering
how stupid I am to even fall for his trap.
Stupid, Serafine. You are so stupid.
Natigilan lang ako nang maramdaman ang basa sa gilid ng mata ko. I cursed
hardly, harshly drying the tears at the side of my eyes.
Malakas ako, oo. Pero masakit pa rin na umasa akong may nagmahal talaga sa akin
kahit ano pa ako. Akala ko talaga may tatanggap sa akin, kahit ano pang masamang
ugali ko.
I just felt how expectation sucks. I assumed to much and now, sinong iiyak?
Ako? Kasi umasa ako sa pesteng pinapakita n'ya.
Hindi nga pala fairytale 'to, na may tatanggap sa'yo kahit ano ka.
I decided to fix myself and study today. Ayokong lumabas, kahit si Lando ay
ayaw kong harapin sa galit at sakit na nararamdaman ko.
Ako lang ang mag-isa sa bahay kaya naglinis ako, kanina ko pa nakikita ang pag-
ilaw at pag-vibrate ng phone ko dahil sa tawag kaya iritado ko iyong nilapitan.
Engr. Miranda calling...
"Asshole," I spatted and turned my phone off.
Lumabas ako sa bahay, nagdilig ng mga halaman roon at natigil lang nang makita
ang paglitaw ni Lando.
"Good morning, Ma'am!" Bati n'ya.
I looked around and stared at him coldly.
"Bakit?" I asked and focused again on watering the plants.
"Uhm," Nilingon ko s'ya at nakita kong nagtataka s'ya sa asal ko pero walang
sinabi.
"Pinapatanong lang po ni engineer kung bakit hindi kayo sumasagot sa tawag
n'ya?"
"Tangina n'ya pakisabi," I murmured.
"Po?" Ulit n'ya nang hindi ako marinig.
"Wala," I smiled a bit. "Pasabi, sira ang phone ko. Papasok ako bukas, h'wag
s'yang mag-alala at gagawin ko 'yung mga pending na naka-assign sa akin."

Kumurap-kurap si Lando roon sa sinabi ko.

"Uh, sige po." Tumango s'ya at sumulyap sa phone n'ya.
Tumalikod ako, akmang papasok muli sa bahay nang magsalita s'ya.
"Uh, tatawag daw po pala si Engineer." Ani Lando at pinakita ang phone n'ya
pero ngumiwi ako at nilingon s'ya.
"Wala ako sa mood," I said.
"Ma'am?"
"Tell him I'll see him tomorrow. Hindi na n'ya kailangang tumawag." I said,
bago pa man s'ya makapagsalita ay nagmartsa na ako papasok ng bahay at ni-lock ang
pinto.
Fuck you, Miranda. Just fuck you. I loathe you so much.

The next day, I felt how Lando glance at me, curious about what I am doing and
why I am acting up.
He greeted me good morning and I just nodded and didn't say anything.
Hindi kaagad sumunod si Lando pagpasok ko sa firm, diretso ang lakad pero
nakita ko ang papalapit na si Alice Tan kasama ang ibang engineers. They were
discussing something.
She stopped upon seeing me, a smirk plastered on her face.
My heart ache, didiretso na sana ako para iwasan s'ya pero kaagad n'ya akong
sinalubong.
"Miss Mendez!" She called cockily.
I glanced at her and saw her mocking eyes.
"Yes?" I asked seriously.
Natigilan ang mga kasama n'ya. I saw some engineers shifted their gaze at me,
curious.
"Oh, hi, Miss Sera!" Kaway ng isang engineer.
I smiled a bit, nodding my head.
"Good morning po,"
"Ang ganda mo talaga," I saw the man blushed a bit. Nagsikuhan ang mga kasama
n'ya at naglokohan.
I just smiled, I noticed how emotion on Alice's face vanished. Mukha s'yang
iritado sa nangyari.
"You're an intern, right?" Her voice is now sharp.
Bumaling ako sa kanya at tumango.
"Go and get the chairwoman a glass of coffee," She demanded.
"Bakit s'ya pa, Engineer Tan? May secretary naman si Madamè--"
"S'ya ang gusto," Kumunot ang noo ni Alice. "Kunan mo!"
"Okay," Tipid kong sabi.
She looks irritated when she saw how relaxed my face is. May sasabihin pa sana
pero bahagya na akong yumukod at umalis.
Nagtungo muna ako sa opisina, nakita ko kaagad sina Sir Roff at Trisha na
kumakaway.
I flashed a smile and nodded, saglit na kumaway bago magtungo sa table ni
Marco.
"Marco?" I called.
"Yes, Sera?" He immediately stood. "Off mo pala kahapon, hinahanap kita."
"Uhm, papatulong sana ako." I said.
"Sure, para saan?" He's now curious.
"Kasi... Kailangan ko magtimpa ng kape, pinapautos lang but I don't know how to
operate."
"Tara," Mabilis n'yang sabi at humawak sa braso ko. "Turuan kita."
"Thank you!" I smiled.
Sabay kaming naglakad ni Marco palabas sana sa opisina pero natigilan ako nang
makita ang paparating din na si Vioxx.

He looks cold but his mouth lifted for a smile when he saw
me.
I didn't flashed a smile back.
"Good morning, Engineer." Marco greeted.
He didn't answer, his confuse eyes stared at me and I immediately cleared my
throat.
"Good morning, Engineer." I said formally.
I saw his jaw clenched, his forehead creased, curious of my answer.
 "Where are you headed?" Baling nito kay Marco.
"Magpapatulong lang si Sera sa coffee maker, Engineer." Ani Marco.
"Ako na," Natigilan ako nang magsalita s'ya.
"Po?"
"I'll help her," Presenta n'ya.
Halos matawa ako roon.
"Si Marco na po," I said coldly.
His eyes turned sharp, he looks frustrated with my answers.
"Ako na ang sasama sa'yo," Aniya at sinubukang hawakan ang kamay ko pero
bahagya akong umatras.
I saw how emotions flashed on his confused eyes.
"Ako nalang ang sasama," Ani Marco na humawak sa braso ko.
"Ako." Vioxx demanded, staring at me deeply. "Sasamahan ko si Serafine."
"Pero--"
"Ako na ang sasama sa kanya--"
"Sabing si Marco nga, eh!" My voice raised.
I saw how Vioxx stopped. Suminghap naman ako dahil sa biglang pagtaas ng boses
ko kaya tumikhim ako.
"We're really fine, Sir." I said, staring at his eyes.
"Sera, I--"
"You got things to do," I said, smiling a bit. "You shoudn't waste your time
with just...a girl like me."
"Serafine," He called. "What are you saying?"
I smiled and shook my head.
"Nothing," I said cooly. "Excuse us, Engineer." I said formally and left him
there, dumbfounded.
Hindi nagtanong si Marco pero pansin kong nagtataka s'ya sa asta ko. I was
thankful because he didn't asked. Tinulungan n'ya ako at tinuruan sa paggamit ng
coffee maker na dinala ko sa chairwoman.
I thought I'll get to receive her harsh words but good thing she isn't there
when I arrived. Tanging ang secretary lang ang sumalubong sa akin.
Akala ko ay magiging kalmado ang oras ko sa opisina pero hindi pala dahil ang
pesteng engineer ay kanina pa labas-pasok sa opisina. Ilang beses ko pa s'ya
nahuhuling tumitingin sa table ko pero hindi magawang lumapit.
What a good actor, Engineer Miranda.
You fooled me in believing you are concerned.
I mentally note to talk to my father, tatay ko s'ya pero hindi ko kakayanin
kung totoong may ginawa s'yang masama sa ibang tao. I will talk to him to know the
truth.
"Ma'am Sera? Pinapatawag kayo ni engineer." Hindi na ako nagulat nang lapitan
na ako ng secretary nito na kanina pa kami nakikita.
Vioxx with his weird in and out of office while obviously glancing at me and
me, not giving a single fuck about him.
"Okay," I said formally and stood.
Kumunot ang noo nito, nagtataka rin marahil pero walang masabi.

I fixed my skirt and went to the moffice, kinakabahan pa

ako pero mas nanuot ang galit sa puso ko.
I caught him walking back and forth of his office, he seems problematic.
Napalingon lamang sa pintuan at nang makita ako ay bahagyang umawang ang labi at
umayos ng tayo.
"Sera..." He called and stood straight.
Mabilis s'yang naglakad sa akin at halos manigas ako nang bigla n'ya akong
yakapin.
I gasped, his arms caught my waist and touched my back.
"I missed you," He whispered.
Hindi ako gumalaw, ni ayaw umakyat ng kamay para yakapin s'ya pabalik.
 I noticed how he stopped when he got no response from me, lumayo s'ya ng
bahagya at nakita ko ang pagguhit ng kung ano sa mata n'ya.
"Baby..." He called and slowly took my hand.
I just stared at him and my bitter heart felt nothing but rage.
He put my hand on his lips, kissing it a bit.
"Do...we have a problem?" He asked, his fingers grazed on my palm.
"Bakit? Mayroon ba dapat?" I asked.
Tumitig s'ya sa mata ko. I almost got fooled when I saw how pain crossed his
eyes.
But I know better.
"You're cold," He murmured.
Tumikhim ako, unti-unting hinila ang kamay ko mula sa hawak n'ya.
His mouth parted, pumikit s'ya ng mariin doon at huminga ng malalim.
"May problema ba tayo?" He murmured, catching my eyes.
"Wala," Sagot ko.
Tumitig s'ya sa akin, tumitig rin ako sa kanya pabalik.
"Yun lang ba ang sasabihin mo, Engineer? Kung 'yun lang ay lalabas na ako--"
"We have a problem, Serafine." He concluded.
Kumunot lang ang noo ko.
"Huh? Mayroon ba?"
"Stop lying," Kinuha n'ya ang kamay ko pero umatras ako.
"May trabaho pa ako--"
"Fuck work, mag-uusap tayo!" Hinawakan nya ako pero iwinasiwas ko ang kamay
n'ya.
"May trabaho nga ako!" I exclaimed.
"Mag-uusap lang tayo--"
"It's office hours! Hindi oras ng lokohan ngayon, Engineer Miranda. I have
fucking work to do so, kung wala kang i-uutos lalabas ako!" I hissed.
"Shit," He cursed. "May problema nga tayo. Fuck, I knew it."
"Pwede na ba akong lumabas, Sir?" Tumaas ang kilay ko.
"Let's talk." He insisted. I rolled my eyes, tatalikuran na sana s'ya pero
nahawakan n'ya ang braso ko.
"Ano ba?!"
"Baby," He said gently, slowly pushing me on his body.
Kumawala ako pero sinapo n'ya ang pisngi ko at hinawakan ang baywang ko.
"Let's talk, okay?" He murmured. "Let's solve whatever this is."
"Solve what? Eh, wala ngang problema!" I hissed.
"Let's just calm down," His voice is gentle yet his eyes are sad and in pain.
"Tell me, come on, I will listen."
"Wala ngang problema," Giit ko. "Now, let me fucking go--"
"I'm sorry..." He murmured.
I stopped.
"I don't know what this is about but I'm sorry..." He whispered. "Kung may
nagawa man ako, I'm so sorry."
Kumirot ang puso ko, kumawala ako sa kanya pero hinawakan n'ya ako at mas
niyakap.
"I'm so sorry." He whispered. "Whatever the problem is, please, can we talk
about it calmly?"
Hindi ako umimik at matalim lang ang titig kung saan. Nagpumiglas ako pero mas
yumakap pa s'ya.
"Please, baby? I don't want us to fight." He whispered.
Great plan, Miranda. If you get rid of me quickly, baka itago ko ang tatay ko
'no?
Napabaling ako sa mga paperbag sa sofa at natawa nang mapait.
"Where are the things you bought for me?" Tinulak ko s'ya at nanghihina s'yang
lumayo.
He look confused, pagod ang mga mata na tinignan ako pero nag-iwas ako ng
tingin at dumiretso sa sofa.
He followed me, nag-iisip ng malalim sa akin.
 "Ito ba?" Turo ko sa paperbag roon.
"Yes," I saw him gulped. "Baby, how about--"
"Ano 'to, dress? Mahal 'to, diba?" Binuksan ko 'yung paperbag.
He remained standing beside me, naupo ako at pinakialaman ang mga gamit doon.
"Sera," He called. "Let's talk--"
"Ang pangit naman ng kulay nito," Reklamo ko pagkita 'nung damit.
"Huh?" He looked lost. "Ayaw mo ba?"
"Ayaw ko rin ng kulay nito," Inilapag ko ang dress.
Oh, damn. These dresses are way to good but I won't fucking give you the
satisfaction, Miranda.
"May mga ibang binili pa ako, I am not good with colors, I just thought it'll
suit you--"
"Ang pa-pangit, wala akong gusto." Reklamo ko at ibinaba padabog ang paperbag.
"What..." Humarang s'ya nang tumayo ako. "What kind of colors do you like so I
can check--"
"Wala," I raised my brow. "Wala akong gusto."
"But you said you don't like the colors, if I know I can choose better next
time." He negotiated. "Or...Or maybe we can shop now? What do you like? Where do
you like to shop?"
I shrugged, umalis sa hawak n'ya pero mabilis nanaman akong nahuli.
"Serafine," Suyo n'ya.
"Ayaw ko nga sabi ng binili mo!" I groaned.
"What is it that you like?" He murmured. "Maybe, we can have it? Gagawa ako ng
paraan."
What I like? You, out of my life. That's what I like.
"Bitawan mo nga ako," I pushed his hand.
"Sera," He called.
Shit, he's getting into my nerves!
"What?" Kumunot ang noo ko.
"What do you like?" He touched my forearm. "Please, tell me, maybe this way I
can make up to you--"
"Like gold diggers, right?" I smiled bitterly.
He froze, I saw how his mouth parted. He closed his eyes.
"No, Serafine." Kumunot ang noo n'ya. "You are not a gold--"
"Well, turns out I am one." I chuckled coldly.
His jaw clenched, irritated of what I am saying.
"Sera--"
"I want cash, Engineer Miranda." I said stiffly. "Tons of it."
He stared at me, his eyes are stone cold. He looks confused and mad at whatever
I am saying.
"Serafine, baby... Stop saying you are--"
"Oo o hindi lang, Engineer." Kumunot ang noo ko.
"Sera--"
"Can you give it to me or not?" I raised my brow.
He stared at me then gave up, sighing as he catch my fingers and caressed my
hand.
"Of course, baby." He gasped and stared at me. "I'll give whatever you like.
Whatever you want, baby."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 17

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Located at K-Ann International Inc. Building, Burol 1, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite.
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I hopw you enjoy the update, sorry for the late uds since medyo busy ang life.
Love you mwuah💚
xxx
Kabanata 17
"Kumusta ang intership, anak?" My father asked me while I was eating breakfast.
Nakaalis na sina Miggy para pumasok at iyon din ang pagdating ni Tatay matapos
kumpunuhin ang jeep.
"Ayos lang po," I smiled and stared at him.
I noticed him breathing a bit weirdly, pumipikit s'ya at humahawak sa kanyang
dibdib.
"Tay..." I murmured. "Umiinom ka naman ng gamot mo, diba?"
He opened his eyes and smiled.
"Oo, anak." He nodded. "Ang dami ko ngang supply roon, salamat. Paano ka
nakakakuha ng pambayad?"
Sa card ko, gusto ko sanang sabihin pero hindi ko ginawa.
"Hindi 'yun mahalaga, Tay. Ang importante ay maging maayos ka. Tay, kailangan
nating pumunta ng doktor para mapa-check-up ka."
"Hindi," He shook his head. "I'm okay, Sera. Sa halip na pang-check-up, mag-
focus nalang tayo kay Miggy. Dagdag din iyon pang-maintenance n'ya."
I sighed, kahit ano atang sabihin ko ay hindi makikinig ang tatay.
"Nasa mga Miranda ka pa rin ba?" That caught my attention, muli ko s'yang
sinulyapan at tumango.
"Opo,"
"Wala bang ibang firm d'yan, anak? Alam mo may mga kilala ako at gusto ka
nilang kunin."
"Ayos lang ako, Tay." I stared at him and noticed him uncomfortable now.
"Maganda ang kompanyang 'yon at magiging maganda rin ang credentials ko kung
sakali."
"Ang...mga tao roon? Kumusta naman? M-May sinasabi ba sila?" He looks so
nervous.
"Wala naman," Tumitig ako sa kanya. "Mayroon po ba dapat?"
"W-Wala naman," He cleared his throat. "Bakit hindi ka nalang umalis, anak?"
"Tay..." I stared at him. "Iniisip ko ang credentials, maganda iyon para sa
resume ko, kapag nakatapos ako."
"P-Pero, hija, marami ring magagandang firm. Ako, tutulungan kita--"
"Bakit, tay, may tinataguan ka ba?" I asked him seriously and he stopped.
He sighed and looked away.
"Tay."
"Umalis ka lang sa firm na iyon, Sera." He closed his eyes tightly.
"Bakit po?" Tumitig ako sa kanya.
"Basta," Giit n'ya at muli akong sinulyapan. "Hindi maganda ang firm na 'yon--"
"May pinagtataguan ba kayo, tay?" I asked and I saw how his mouth parted, mas
bumilis ang paghinga n'ya.
"Anong sinasabi mo--"
"A-Are you...involved in the death of Akisha Santos?" I asked him.
He froze. His mouth parted and I gasped when he suddenly shook his head and a
moment later, his tears fell.

"S-Sorry..." He suddenly murmured.

Napatakip ako sa bibig ko sa gulat.
"W-Why..." I gasped, nangilid ang mga luha ko.
"H-Hindi ko ginusto, w-wala na akong naisip na paraan." He cried.
Tulala at gulat pa rin, nanatili akong nakatitig sa kanya. My tears fell more
when he started sobbing and slowly took my hand on the table.
 "P-Pasensya na, anak. G-Ginawa ko lang para sa inyo--"
"K-Kaya ko naman magtrabaho, Tay!" I exclaimed and sob, nanginig ang balikat ko
at napahagulgol ako. "B-Bakit mo gagawin 'yon...kaya ko naman tumulong sa inyo!"
"H-Hindi ko naman alam," Tumitig s'ya sa akin, I shook my head. "Please,
anak...maniwala ka. Wala akong alam na ganoon ang gagawin!"
I tried pulling my hand but he gripped it more.
"M-Makinig ka, Sera..." He murmured. "W-Wala akong alam, anak. S-Sabi lang,
kailangan kong magmaneho, malaki ang bayad kaya pumayag ako."
I shook my head, kuyom ang isa kong kamay habang umiiyak.
"H-Hindi..."
"T-Tapos...nagulat ako nang may dinukot na babae, wala akong nagawa, Sera.
Nagulat ako pero t-tinutukan ako ng baril kaya wala akong nagawa kung hindi ang
sumama. N-Nakita kong pinatay nila 'yong babae at tumulong ako sa pagtapon namin sa
bangkay p-pero wala akong nagawa."
"B-Bakit..." I shook my head and sob. "K-Kaya ko naman tumulong, T-Tay. B-Bakit
naman ganito?"
"N-Naisip ko si Miggy, ang pag-aaral mo." He shook his head. "M-Malaki ang
bayad kaya hindi ako nag-isip."
"K-Kaya ko namang gawan ng paraan," I sobbed. "K-Kaya ko namang mag-doble ng
trabaho, bakit kailangan mong sumugal!"
"H-Hindi ko naisip iyon, anak." He cried. "K-Kaya pakiusap, please, umalis ka
na sa firm na iyon. M-Masasama ang mga ugali ng tao roon, h-hindi ko alam pero isa
roon ang nag-utos na pumatay sa babae."
"S-Sumuko ka, tay, please." I murmured.
His eyes widen as he shook his head in horror.
"Wala akong ginawang masama, Serafine!"
"Alam ko, tay." I said and stared at him, desperate. "P-Pero kailangan mong
makipagtulungan para maresolba ang kaso, k-kailangan na mauna kang magsalita para
sa hustisya."
"W-Wala...ayoko, wala akong ginawa." He shook his head.
"Tay," Umayos ako ng upo at hinawakang maigi ang kanyang kamay. "K-Kailangan
mong magsalita para makatulong. Atsaka, wala kang alam, napilitan ka lang. P-Pwede
mo iyang sabihin sa mga pulis--"
"Hindi ganun kadali, Sera." He shook his head. "Makapangyarihan ng pamilyang
'yon, paano kapag napahamak kayo nila Miggy? Huh? K-Kaya kong mabuhay sa konsensya
pero hindi ko kakayanin kapag may masamang nangyari sa inyo ng kapatid mo,
Serafine."
"T-Tay," I murmured.
"P-Patawarin mo sana ako, anak." He sobbed. "H-Hindi ito ginusto ng tatay."
I gasped, mabilis akong tumayo sa upuan ko para yakapin s'ya at suminghap s'ya
at mas niyakap ako.
"S-Sorry, anak. Patawarin mo ako, m-mag-iisip ako ng paraan para mahuli ang mga
may kasalanan. G-Gusto kong tumulong pero natatakot ako."
"T-Tutulungan kita, Tay." I whispered. "T-Tutulong ako para sa'yo at sa
hustisya."
"Salamat, Sera." He whispered. "Salamat sa pagiging mabuti at mapagmahal na
anak, s-salamat sa mga sakripisyo mo para sa pamilyang 'to."
"T-Tay..."

"L-Laking pasalamat ko na anak kita...kahit hindi kami ang

nagkatuluyan ng Mama mo, nagpapasalamat ako kasi nasa akin ka." Bulong n'ya.
I sobbed, clutching his shirt.
"T-Tay,"
"Aayusin ko 'to, anak. N-Natatakot ako pero...susubok ako. Hindi ko ginusto ang
nangyari pero may masama pa rin akong nagawa. Patawarin mo ang tatay, Sera. Mahal
na mahal ko kayo ni Miggy."
I went to the office a bit disoriented and sad. Gustong-gusto kong humingi ng
tulong kay Vioxx para kay Tatay...siguro, kung hindi ko lang alam ang motibo n'ya.
I know...because even if I ask him for help, he would just drop me, us like a
hot potato in the end.
Siguro kung hindi ko nalaman ay nagpapakatanga pa rin ako, iniisip na totoong
gusto nga n'ya ako.
"Totoo ba raw? Na kapag anong size ng paa tapos divide mo sa half plus
one...'yun 'yung size ng ano?" Napataas ang kilay ko sa biglang entrada ni Trisha.
"Ano ba 'yang entrance mo!" Litaw ni Sir Roff at ngumisi bago naupo sa upuan sa
harapan ko. "Sarap ng dinner natin kahapon, Sera! Thanks sa libre!"
Napangisi lang ako at umiling.
Hindi ko 'yun pera...kung alam n'yo lang.
"Hoy, makinig kayo!" Trisha sat infront of us. "Legit ba 'yun?"
"Aba, malay ko." Ani Sir Roff. "Basta kapag daks, go na ako kaagad."
Humagalpak s'ya at natawa rin ako.
"Ganda nito kausap, ano nga kasi? Legit ba--"
"Hindi totoo," Ngiwi ko kaya napasulyap sila sa akin.
"Huh?"
"Yang shoe size divide two plus one?" I shook my head. "Scam."
"Weh?" She raised her brow. "Hindi nga?"
"Oo nga," Tawa ko.
"At paano mo nalaman, aber?" She exclaimed.
"Baka na-try na!" Asar ni Sir Roff kaya natigilan ako at s'ya rin. Ang ngisi ay
nawala at maya-maya'y nanlaki ang mata at sumulyap sa akin.
"Paano mo napatunayan 'yan, Serafine?" He hissed.
"Hindi nga totoo, mas malaki pa doon sa size na computed mo." I pointed out.
Sabay na umawang ang labi nila, nanlalaki ang mga matang napatitig sa akin.
"Nakakita ka na, Serafine?!" Trisha exclaimed.
I blinked and looked away.
"Hindi," I said, pinapakialaman ang mga papel. "Pero totoo nga, mas maganda
kapag sukatin mo nalang--"
"What's the size, then?" I froze.
Napalingon ako at nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita si Engr. Miranda na nasa may
gilid ng lamesa ko.
"Oh, morning po, engineer!" They exclaimed.
"Mornin," He said, shifting his gaze at me.
"Morning, Sera." He said, I rolled my eyes and cleared my throat.
Tumaas ang kilay ko nang maglapag s'ya ng pumpon ng bulaklak sa lamesa ko,
kasabay ang isang plastic ng take out na pagkain.
"Ano 'yan?" Hinarap ko s'ya.
"Uh," He looks confused and stared at me. "I bought you breakfast, baka kasi
hindi ka pa nag-agahan."
"I'm full, Engineer. Thanks." I said.

"Kahit 'yung bulaklak lang," Aniya.

"Excuse, uhm, una muna kami, Serafine...Engineer." Nag-uunahan ang awkward na
mga kasamahan ko bago tumayo at nagtatakbo paalis.
I shook my head, muling binalingan ang nakatungo pa rin sa lamesa kong si
Vioxx.
"Anong mapapala ko sa bulaklak?" I asked.
"What is our problem, baby?" Suyo n'ya roon.
I sighed. Kumunot ang noo ko nang humila s'ya ng swivel ang naupo sa harapan
ko.
"Sera...please?" He murmured, catching my hands.
"Nasa trabaho tayo, Engineer Miranda." Mariing sinabi ko at lumayo.
"Call me Rai," Pagod n'yang sabi. "I don't know what is our problem, let's talk
about it, please? It confuses me everytime."
"Edi h'wag mong isipin." I said. "Walang pumipilit sa'yong mag-isip."
 "Just tell me, baby, please? I feel lost, why are you suddenly drifting away?"
He looks tired, I can see it in his eyes.
"Why bother thinking about it, anyway? Hindi ba pabor to sa'yo?" I asked.
"Sera," He murmured.
"You'll just drop me like a hot potato in the end, anyway." I smirked and I saw
how his mouth parted a bit. "So...don't think about me anymore, you'll be done with
me soon."
"Serafine," Kumunot ang noo n'ya. "What the hell are you saying?"
I just chuckled bitterly and shook my head.
"Baby, please..." Hinawi ko ang kamay n'ya. "Please, tell what is it so I can
understand. So, I will do what it takes to make it up to you. Hindi 'yong biglaan
ka nalang hindi ako kakausapin."
I shook my head again.
"Go, Engr. Alam kong may trabaho ka pa."
"Sera," He murmured. "J-Just tell me what I did wrong. We can't fix things if
you stayed silent about anything that bothers you."
"I need money," I said and stared at me.
His tired eyes are soft and longing, napatitig  s'ya sa akin at maya-maya pa ay
tumango.
"Alright, I have cash inside."
"Thanks," I said, looking away from him and stared at the papers infront of me,
pretending to do something.
He remained sitting beside me, staring at me as I do my thing.
"Engineer, meeting po in five minutes." His secretary came.
He shifted his gaze, nodding a bit and when he left, I was startled when he
took my hand and gave it a kiss.
"I hope you'll talk to me," He whispered on my skin.
Hindi ko s'ya nilingon, he touched my cheek, touched my chin and tilted to give
me a kiss on my forehead.
"I miss you, baby. Bumalik na tayo sa dati." He whispered.
He stared at me for a while and when he saw that I don't give a fuck, he sighed
and left.
When he left, I felt the pain lingering my chest. I feel suddenly lost, bahagya
akong tumungo nang mahulog ang luha sa aking pisngi at marahas na pinahid paalis.
You are strong, Serafine. You don't need him to live.
"Go! Let's go bar hopping tomorrow!" Sir Roff exclaimed and laughed.
"Ehem, baka may manlibre d'yan?" Parinig ni Trisha sa mga kasamahan namin.
Hindi ako umimik, nanatiling nagsusulat ng tahimik.

"Walang sweldo," Reklamo pa nang iba. "Sa sunod nalang,

Sir."
"Sige na, KJ n'yo naman." Reklamo ni Trisha. "Oh, ikaw Sera? Sama ka, huh?"
I lifted my gaze and smiled.
"Sure," I lifted the card I am holding. "Let's all go  and enjoy the night, all
drinks on me."
It was fun, pero kami tawanan habang nasa byahe. Hindi ko alam kung saan
napadpad si Lando pero alam kong nakasunod s'ya, hindi nga lang nagpapakita pa.
Si Tatay pala ang target nila, bakit sa akin nakasunod ang bodyguard na 'to?
I sighed, napatawa pa ako nang umiling ang mga kasama ko nang makita ang suot
ko.
"Balik doon, Sera! We want a sexier outfit for you!" Trisha exclaimed.
I pouted and nodded, sa pagbalik ko sa fitting room ay isinuot ko ang isang
neck-plunge black dress.
Long sleeve ito na hapit sa katawan ko pero hantad ang gitna ng dibdib.
Well, this looks better.
Lumabas ako para sana ipakita sa mga kaibigan ang susuotin para sa club mamaya
pero napansin ko ang katahimikan nila.
 "Trisha?" Nagtatakang-tawag ko pero nakatitig lang s'ya sa gilid ko kaya
lumingon ako.
I gasped loudly when I saw Vioxx just beside me, leaning on the wall.
He looks cold yet annoyed.
Huli ko ang titig n'ya sa suot ko at nagtagal pa iyon sa may dibdib ko.
Kita ko ang gusto n'yang pag-alma pero wala na s'yang sinabi roon.
"Ayan, bagay 'yan, Sera! Mas gusto ko!" Sir Roff exclaimed.
Nawala ang atensyon ko kay Vioxx, muli akong sumulyap sa mga kasamahan at
ngumisi.
"I'll get it," Nilingon ko ang saleslady na titig na titig sa bwiset na
Engineer.
"Miss," I called her loudly.
"Po? Yes po..." She panicked, almost running to me.
Binuksan ko ang bag ko para kunin ang card pero hindi ko na nagawa nang
pinigilan ni Vioxx ang kamay ko.
I looked at him, confused. Ibinalik n'ya ang nilabas ko wallet sa bag ko bago
unti-unting gumapang ang kamay sa baywang ko.
"Charge it here," He said, lifting a black card to the saleslady.
Kita ko ang pagningning ng mata nito, ang mga kasama ko nama'y nakanganga lang
sa aming dalawa.
"O-Okay, Sir." She said and left.
Nanahimik ako, ramdam ko ang init ng palad nito sa baywang ko at marahang
humahaplos.
"You all going to a club?" He asked my workmates.
"Yes, Engineer." Ngisi ni Trisha.
"Do you have plans where?" He asked.
Pasimple akong sumulyap sa kanya. He looks handsome, like always. Malinis ang
pagkakagupit ng buhok, doon ko napansing bago gupit s'ya kaya mas nadepina ang
kanyang mukha.
He's wearing a dark gray longsleeves and slacks, naka-leather shoes pa ang
pangit na ito at binasa ang kanyang pang-ibabang labi.
"Ay, wala po. Kahit saan dadalhin ng tadhana." Tawa ni Sir Roff.
Marco remained silent, staring at us. He looks curious yet didn't dare to talk.
Nang magtagpo ang mata namin ay ngumiti ako at tumango s'ya at ngumisi.

"I know a club here, sasamahan ko kayo." Aniya.

Nagsitilian ang mga kasama ko dahil sa kanya.
"Hindi ka naman invited," Ngiwi ko.
He stared at me, nagsinghapan naman sina Sir.
"Hoy, haliparot na Serafine. Bakit mo inaaway si Engineer?!" Sir Roff hissed.
I rolled my eyes.
"Bakit...totoo naman, invited ka?" I asked, moving away but he held my waist
more.
"I'm inviting myself, then." He raised his brow at me. "May babantayan din ata
ako ngayong gabi."
I saw him glance at my dress.
"Ayoko," I shrugged.
"Manlilibre kasi si Sera, Engineer. Baka ayaw ng dagdag." Entrada pa ni Sir
Roff.
"My treat then," He said, stopping all of us.
Kumurap ako, gulat na napatingin sa kanya.
"Hoy, what are you saying?"
"I brought my car, we can all go there together." He offered.
Tuwang-tuwa ang mga kasama ko pero ako ay nanatiling nakasimangot.
"And by the way, you can choose clothes here in this shop. My treat." He said
at mas nagkagulo sila roon sa tuwa.
Vioxx caught my eyes and I rolled my eyes. Napasinghap ako nang bahagya n'yang
hilahin ang baywang ko kaya tumama ako sa kanyang dibdib.
"Hindi pa rin ba tayo bati?" He whispered at touched my waist.
"Bitawan mo nga ako!" I exclaimed.
He sighed and stared at me.
"Just tell me what is this about, baby. I don't get why you act like this.
Binabaliw mo ba ako?" Hinawi n'ya ang buhok ko at hinaplos ang pisngi ko.
"Sana matuluyan ka." Pinalo ko ang kamay n'ya.
"Aww," He pouted and touched his chest. "Hindi ka ba naaawa sa akin? I miss
you, baby."
"Paki ko?" Lumayo ako sa kanya.
He sighed and caught my arm.
"Serafine," Suyo n'ya, ngumuso.
"Feeling mo cute ka?" I raised my brow. "Ang pangit mo, Engineer."
His mouth parted, napangisi ako at iniwan s'ya roong wala sa sarili.
"Grabe, ang galante ni engineer!" Bulong ni Trisha habang hawak ang paperbag.
"Naku, Trisha! Maganda 'to kapag sinuot ko!" Tawa-tawa pa ni Sir Roff.
"Enjoying your time, huh?" Sabay-sabay kaming natigilan nang lumitaw si Alice
Tan sa harapan.
"M-Ma'am!" They panicked.
"At nilibre pala ang mga kaibigan mo?" Alice Tan smirked and stared at me,
nanatili naman akong nakatayo roon at malamig din ang tingin sa kanya.
"Napadaan ka ata, Ma'am." I smiled coldly.
Pumunta ako sa harapan para hindi madamay ang mga kaibigan ko at hinarap s'ya.
"Ang saya kapag may nahuhuthutan ng pera, ano?" Her lip twitched.
I didn't even get offended. Taas-noo ko s'yang hinarap. Wala kami sa opisina
ngayon kaya hindi ko s'ya bibigyan ng pagkakataong mang-insulto.
"Atleast, willing mag-bigay, 'no? I don't usually ask, ibinigay kaagad." I
smirked.
"Ganyan talaga kapag gold-digger--"

"Engr. Tan." Tumigil ako nang lumitaw si Vioxx sa harapan

ko.
He stood infront of me, slowly putting me on his back as if protecting me.
"Oh, Vioxx." She smiled sweetly, tila maamong tupa.
I rolled my eyes.
"What do you need?" He asked coldly.
"Nothing," She grinned. "Just strolling around and saw an intern, mukhang
maraming nakuha at nanlibre pa ng mga kaibigan?"
"I'm with them," Mariing sabi nito.
Tahimik ang mga kasama ko, pilit ko namang hinila mula sa hawak ni Vioxx ang
palapulsuhan ko pero mahigpit ang hawak n'ya.
"Good job, then." She smiled wickedly.
"Let's talk." Mariing sabi nito.
"Okay," She smiled seductively and left.
He looked at me, nanatiling nakatingin sa kanya ng malamig. I was gritting my
teeth, annoyed of him and everything about him.
"I'll be quick," He said and touched my waist.
Hindi ako umimik, natigilan pa ako nang bahagya n'yang hagkan ang noo ko at
sumunod kay Alice.
"What...was that?" Trisha suddenly commented.
"Matagal ko nang napapansing may something kay Sera at Engineer pero hindi ko
akalaing totoo nga." Miya whispered. "Akala ko landian lang talaga pero..."
"Mauna na tayo," I said timidly.
"Huh? Pero si Engineer?" Ani Sir Roff.
"Just let him, kaya naman natin pumunta roon." I said coldly.
"Pero..." Wala na silang nagawa nang maglakad ako paalis. Inalalayan ako ni
Marco sa paglalakad habang nakasunod sina Trisha at ang iba pa naming kasama.
 I was mad and hurt, ramdam ko ang bigat ng puso ko habang naglalakad paalis.
Galit ako pero hindi ko mapagkakailang mahal ko s'ya na s'yang naging mali ko.

Habang nasa taxi kami papunta sa bar ay wala ako sa sarili, excited sila pero
ako ay walang madamang kahit ano kung hindi ang galit.
Mag-uusap, huh? If I know, kapag nalaman n'yang nauna na kami. He'd probably
join her in a five-star hotel and fuck her senseless!
Halos itapon ko ang phone nang sunod-sunod na tawag ang natanggap ko galing sa
gagong 'yon.
I turned my phone off, kaagad na kumuha ng cocktail pagpasok palang namin.
"Let's party!" I exclaimed.
"Woah!" The loud song boomed. Napuno ng usok at mas nag-ingay ang DJ.
I saw couples making out, friends partying. Nakailang shot pa ko ng alak nang
makumbinse ako ng mga kaibigang sumayaw sa dancefloor.
Guys asked me to dance and I declined at first, mga kaibigan ko lamang ang
kasama ko pero matapos ng ilan pang inumin ay nakumbinse na ako.
I dance and flirted.
I keep on imagining how foolish I am to believe in impossible love. Ang mayroon
kami ni Rai ay pag-ibig na impossible. Kalokohan ang mayroon kami.
I remembered his words, how he made me believe his lies. Kung paano ako umasa
at iniwan lamang bigla sa ere ng walang pasabi.
"You're sexy, mind going to my place?" I almost forgot I am dancing with a
stranger.
I did not answer but grin instead. Humawak ako sa kanyang balikat at humawak
s'ya sa baywang ko.

We danced, mas idinidikit n'ya ako sa kanya at halos

matumba na ako sa hilo sa nainom at sa magulong ilaw sa dancefloor.
"Come on, sa condo ko tayo." Bulong n'ya.
I just hummed, natigilan ako nang humalik s'ya sa pisngi ko pababa sa leeg ko
pero bago ko pa s'ya matulak paalis ay nawala na s'ya sa harapan ko.
Gulat ako nang magsigawan ang mga tao sa paligid. I feel so lost and confused,
kung hindi lang may humawak sa kamay ko at hinila ako.
"Fuck you! That's my girlfriend!" Galit na galit na imahe ni Vioxx ang nakita
ko.
Sa pagtingin ko sa lapag ay naroon na ang lalaki, nakasalampak at hawak ang
ilong.

"Tangina--"
Vioxx left me to punch the man again. Napasigaw na ako at mas nagkagulo.
Napasinghap ako nang magpalitan sila ng suntok, hinawakan ako ni Marco para
hindi makisali pero nagpumilit ako.
"Tama na!" Singhap ko.
Vioxx seems so mad, hawak n'ya ang kwelyo ng lalaki kaya dali-dali kong
hinawakan ang kanyang braso at hinatak.
"Tama na!" Sigaw ko.
He stopped. Nagpdala s'ya sa hila pero kita ko ang galit sa kanyang mga mata.
Halos bulagta na ang lalaki sa lapag, magulo ang buhok ni Vioxx at may dugo ang
gilid ng labi, nagusot din ang suot na damit.
"Sino ka ba--"
He clenched his jaw, hindi na sumagot sa lalaki at kinuha ang kamay ko.
He pulled me outside, wala akong imik habang hila-hila n'ya ako. Kitang-kita ko
ang galit sa kanyang mga mata, he was breathing a bit deeply and fast.
Halos itulak na n'ya ako papasok sa kotse. Kunot ang noo ko habang naglalakad
s'ya sa driver's seat.

Hindi ko s'ya inimik sa byahe, I saw him gripping the steering wheel hard. His
forehead creasing, akala ko ay i-uuwi na ako pero nang mapansing nasa ibang daan ay
doon na ako nagsalita.
"I-uwi mo na ako." I said.
Hindi s'ya umimik. I saw him frustatedly brushed his hair, his jaw clenched,
his intense brown eyes are staring directly in the road.
"I-uwi mo na ako," Ulit ko.
Hindi n'ya ako inimik.
"Vioxx!" I exclaimed.
"Is it too hard to call me Rai again, huh?" Mariing tanong n'ya.
"I-uwi mo na sabi ako!" I roared. "Ano ba, saan mo ako dadalhin?!"
"Mag-uusap tayo." Mariing sabi n'ya at sumulyap sa akin.
"Para saan?" Kumunot ang noo ko. "May dapat ba tayong pag-usapan?"
"We will fix this fucking problem we have, Serafine." Mariing sabi n'ya. Nang
tumigil ang sasakyan sa parking lot ng pamilyar na building ay napasinghap ako.
He went out of the car, pinagbuksan n'ya ako ng pintuan kaya mabilis akong
lumabas at tinanggihan ang kamay n'ya.
Suminghap s'ya at sumunod, padabog ako naglakad at hinayaan s'ya.
Sobrang bigat ng pakiramdam sa dibdib ko, tila ilang segundo lang ay sasabog
ako sa galit.
He followed me like a fool, pinagtitinginan na kami ng mga tao, sumakay ako sa
elevator at mabilis s'yang nakasunod.
Wala kaming imik na dalawa, malalim ang paghinga ko, nagtitimpi habang s'ya ay
kunot ang noo at umiigting ang panga.
I walked out when we reached the floor, sumunod s'ya kaagad at sinubukang
abutin ang kamay ko pero hinawi ko s'ya.

"Don't fucking touch me!" I groaned.

"Serafine," He warned.
"Ano, huh? Galit ka?" Hinarap ko s'ya.
He closed his eyes and tried calming down.
"Don't walk out on me..." He breathe. "Mag-uusap tayo."
"Para saan pa?" Natawa ako.
"Calm down, okay?" He stared at me.
"Fuck you." I cursed him and continued walking.
"Fuck," He cursed and followed me. Namaywang ako nang makarating sa unit n'ya
at hinayaan s'yang magbukas.
We entered his unit, hindi pa kami nakakaabot sa sofa ay kaagad ko na s'yang
hinarap.
"Ano? Anong gusto mong pag-usapan?" Mariing sabi ko.
He stared at me as he frustatedly ran his fingers on his dishevelled hair.
"Sera," He murmured. "Let's both calm down first, wala tayong mapapag-usapan ng
maayos kung pareho tayong galit--"
"Galit ka?" Natawa ako. "Wala kang karapatang magalit, Miranda. Para saan pa?
Ako dapat ang magalig dahil nananakit ka ng tao! Wala namang ginagawa 'yong lalaki
pero sinaktan mo!"
"Wala?" He laughed non-chalantly, tila nawala ang nakahawak sa timpi. "He
almost kiss you, Serafine!"
"What am I supposed to do, huh? That man almost fucking kiss my girlfriend!
Sinong hindi magagalit, huh?! Ayokong nagagalit ako pero iba kapag ikaw ang usapan,
Sera! Girlfriend kita! Anong gusto mong maramdaman ko? Nakita kitang halos halikan
na ng gagong 'yon!"
"Wow..." I laughed in amazement. "Ganyan ka na pala ngayon? What a good actor,
engineer."
"Sera..." Pagod s'yang napahilamos ng mukha. "I don't get you...maayos naman
tayo, diba? Bakit ganito?"
"You're unbelievable," I murmured.
"May nagawa ba ako? Is it your way to have your revenge? Kung ito, panalo ka na
dahil selos na selos na ako. Hindi na ako makatulog kakaisip kung anong
nangyayari." His eyes are bloodshot, suminghap ako at kumuyom ang kamay.
"The show has ended, Miranda. Please, stop fooling me. Stop acting as if you
care."
"I care for you because I love you!" Sigaw n'ya.
My heart skipped a beat, napasinghap ako at napatitig at kita ang luha sa gilid
ng mata n'ya.
"Hindi kita niloloko dahil mahal kita!" He groaned. "And I don't fucking get
why you're acting like this kasi hirap na hirap na ako!"
"Lies," I whispered.
He shook his head, frustatedly catching my hands.
"Mahal kita, please...ayusin naman natin 'to." He whispered.
"Didn't know you'll lie about that words," I said bitterly. "You're bored kaya
mo ginagawa ito."
"Sera..."
"I overheard you," I said and stared at his eyes. "I overheard everything
you've said. Ano ako, engineer? Laruan mo, diba? I'm a gold digger, gusto ko ng
pera kaya gagamitin mo, diba?"
His eyes dilated, kita ko ang pag-awang ng labi n'ya.
"Serafine...let me explain." He panicked.
"S-Si Tatay, aamin s'ya. Gusto n'yang tumulong sa kaso ng dating pakakasalan
mo." Tumulo ang luha ko.
"I-I know," He nodded and held me. "Please--"
"Tutulungan ko ang tatay kong umamin para sa hustisya. 'Yan naman ang gusto mo,
diba? Kaya mo ako dinamay sa tanginang laro mo?"
"Baby...I..."
"I hope you enjoy playing with me and my feelings," Mahinang sabi ko.
"S-Sera..." Nakita ko ang takot sa mga mata n'ya. "P-Pakinggan mo ako--"
"You disappointed me," Mahinang sabi ko. "You...made me feel I was special pero
iiwan mo ako sa huli."
"S-Sera... Please, makinig ka sa'kin."
"But...hey, thanks for the money. A gold digger like me enjoyed it a lot." I
smiled.
His tears fell, nag-iwas ako ng tingin sa kanya.
"B-Baby," His voice broke, he touched my arm and made me look at him. "M-Mahal
kita... Please, please, baby. Listen."
I stared at him and saw nothing but an asshole who played with me.
"Oh, I know now what I failed to do again." I said coldly and pushed him.
Namumula ang mga mata n'ya at sinubukan akong hawakan pero lumayo ako at umayos
ng tayo sa kanyang harapan, unti-unting ibinaba ang zipper sa likod ng dress na
suot.
"You payed me because I am a slut," I said bitterly, unti-unting hinubad ang
dress ko at tinapon sa sahig.
"You want something in exchange of the money you spent with me?" I stared at
his eyes and saw the pain he has while staring at my naked body.
"Come on, Engineer Miranda. Sulitin mo ang binayad mo sa'kin, let's fuck."
I saw tears pooling from his eyes, pagod at kung ano mang lungkot ang nakita ko
sa kanyang mukha habang ako'y malamig lang na nakatingin.
He walked towards me, akala ko'y papatulan na ang sinabi ko pero sa gulat ko ay
binalot n'ya ako ng mahigpit na yakap.
Sa kabila ng lamig ng katawan ko ay naramdaman ko ang init na hatid ng yakap
n'ya. I heard his soft cries on my ear, hugging me tightly.
"I love you," He whispered. "M-Mahal na mahal kita, Serafine."
Hindi ako umimik, mariing nakatingin kung saan at kuyom ang kamay.
A few moments and he moved away from me, nanatili akong hindi umimik at kita ko
ang mga luha sa pisngi n'ya habang inaabot ang dress ko sa lapag.
I stared weakly at him as he fixed my dress, muli n'yang isinuot iyon sa akin
at muli akong niyakap at hinalikan ang noo ko.
"S-Sera..."
 I pushed him.
"Sana hindi nalang kita nakilala," I said and slapped him.
Pumaling ang ulo n'ya at umiling ako bago naglakad palabas sa unit n'ya.
Doon na ako napahagulgol, napahawak ako sa bibig ko habang tumatakbo patungo sa
elevator.
Nagmamadali kong kinuha ang telepono nang tumunog dahil sa isang tawag.
"H-Hello?" I answered with my shaking voice.
"Hello, is this Serafine Mendez?" The man in the other line asked.
"Y-Yes..."
"Ma'am," I heard him sighed. "Kailangan n'yo pong pumunta sa ospital."
My heart raced.
"P-Po? Bakit?"
"Si Mr. Benjamin Mendez po, 'yung tatay n'yo ay nasa ospital." Halos mamutla
ako roon.
"P-Po? Bakit?"
"Inatake po sa puso, Ma'am, habang namamasada."
I gasped.
"P-Po? M-Maayos naman po ang lagay ng tatay, diba?" Nanginig ang boses ko.
Hindi s'ya kaagad umimik, narinig ko ang malalim na paghinga bago s'ya
nagsalita.
"Pasensya na, Ma'am. Dead on arrival po." He said.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 18

Anyone who wants to read Sandejas Sibs. First generation?

Completed na ang story ng parents nila sa NoInk na Paper Planes! That is for free
reading until the end. Visit the link on my wall. Thanks!
Hi, thank you for the patience! Enjoy the update (I hope hahaha lol)
xxx
Kabanata 18
With my shaking hands, I reached for the elevator button.
My tears won't stop falling, tila lumulutang ako sa hangin habang umiiyak at
walang mapuntahan.
I was out of my reverie. I feel so confused and lost, mahigpit ang hawak sa
phone habang diretso ang lakad palabas.
"Ma'am, ayos lang kayo?" Tanong ng isang attendant pero patuloy na nahuhulog
ang luha sa aking pisngi.
No...I might be just dreaming. This isn't possible. Nagsisinungaling lang ang
kausap ko!
Buhay ang tatay ko!
I tried lifting my shaking hands to get a taxi pero nilalagpasan lang ako nito.
My mouth parted, my breathing labored as I catch my breath.
"K-Kuya!" I desperately called a cab but it went passed me.
I saw people getting cabs at the other side of the road. Wala sa sariling
tumawid ako, I saw the blinding lights from the fast cars but I never thought of
it, tanging ang gusto lang ay ang makakuha ng sasakyan.
My eyes swelled from the tears falling, nanlalabo na ang paningin pero isang
malakas na busina ang nagpatigil sa akin.
I shifted my gaze and saw a car approaching, tuloy-tuloy ang pagbusina sa akin.
Gusto ko mang tumakbo ay nawala ako sa sarili, I was stunned in the middle of
the road. Just staring at the approaching car when I felt someone pulled me.
Nakita ko kung paano lumagpas sa akin ang sasakyan at ang mariing pagpikit ko
nang tumama ako kung saan.
"S-Sera..." A soft voice and a hug on my back and that's when I felt myself
breaking down.
Nanginig ang kamay ko, malakas na napahagulgol at mas humigpit ang yakap nito
sa akin.
"Sshh, baby..." He hushed. I cried harder, pushing him away but he keep on
pulling me to his body.
"B-Bitawan mo ako!" I screamed, my voice shaking.
"N-No..." He shook his head.
I lifted my gaze and saw his bloodshot and scared eyes, sa kabila ng mga luha
ay pilit ko s'yang tinutulak palayo.
"H'wag mo akong hawakan! B-Bitawan mo ako!" I exclaimed.
"I won't." He said desperately, pilit akong niyayakap.
I cried more, pinagpapalo ang kanyang dibdib. pero pilit n'ya iyong iniinda at
pilit akong pinapakalma.
"A-Are you alright? N-Nasaktan ka ba?" He tried cupping my cheek bit I pushed
his hand away.
"B-Bitawan mo ako! Kailangan kong puntahan ang tatay ko!" I screamed
desperately.
I saw his eyes shifted from an emotion, nabalot ng kung anong lungkot ang mga
mata n'ya at mariing pumikit.
"Y-You have to calm down, Sera. Pupuntahan natin s'ya--"
"Bitawan mo ako!" I cried. "W-Wala naman kayong pakialan, diba?! Dapat masaya
ka pa nga!"
"No!" He shook his head. "No, baby, please..."
Nanghina ako nang hawakan n'ya ang pisngi ko at pinakatitigan ako.

"Pupuntahan natin s'ya..."

"B-Buhay pa ang tatay ko..." I murmured, looking at him desperately. "R-
Rai...buhay pa si Tatay, diba?"
I was hoping while I was staring at his eyes but I saw nothing but pity.
I shook my head.
"T-Tell me, please, buhay s'ya, diba?" I asked with my shaking voice.
"Rai!" I tugged his shirt. "S-Sabihin mo...sabihin mo sa aking buhay pa ang
Tatay ko!"
He stared at me and slowly shook his head.
"I-I'm sorry." He looked down.
Suminghap ako, tinulak s'ya at sinabunutan ang buhok ko.
"Hindi! H-Hindi s'ya pwedeng mawala! Hindi..." I sobbed, sumalampak ako ng upo
at tinakpan ang mukha ko.
"S-Sera," I felt a warm embrace but I pushed him away.
"No..." I muttered.
"Come on, please. Ihahatid kita." Nanghihinang bulong n'ya at pilit akong
itinatayo.
"Get off me!" I cried.
"Please...I'll take you to him, let me take you." He whispered.
Hinawakan n'ya ang braso ko at itinayo ako, nakaalalay ang kanyang braso sa
aking baywang habang nanginginig ako at umiiyak.
"S-Si tatay..." I whispered.
Lumalim ang paghinga n'ya, binalot ako ng jacket at muling ikinulong sa kanyang
bisig.
"Pupuntahan natin s'ya..." Pampakalma n'ya at paulit-ulit na humalik sa ulo ko.
"Engineer!" I heard Lando's voice but I stayed on his arms, nakasubsob sa
kanyang dibdib habang mahigpit ang hawak sa kanyang damit.
"Get my car, pupunta tayong ospital." Utos nito.
I didn't heard Lando answered and moments later, I was on his car. Nakasuot pa
rin ng kanyang jacket habang tulala sa daan.
"Hey, look at me..." Pilit na hinahanap ni Rai ang mga mata ko pero ayaw kong
tumitingin, takot na makita n'ya kung gaano ako kahina, kung gaano ako katalo sa
laro n'ya.
"Sera," He called desperately. "Baby, please..."
Nahanap n'ya ang mata ko, pagod akong nakatitig sa kanya ang naramdaman ko ang
walang mintis na pagtulo ng luha sa aking pisngi.
"It's gonna be alright," He whispered.
Umiling ako at nag-iwas ng tingin, naramdaman ko ang pagyakap nito sa baywang
ko at ang pagsubsob ng mukha nito sa aking leeg.
He let me feel his warmth, he let me feel his presence but I was too
preoccupied of my thoughts.
"Nandito lang ako," He whispered. "Hindi kita pababayaan, I won't leave you."
Hindi ako umimik, nanatiling tulala at pagod na ipinikit ang mata.
Liar, nauna mo pa nga akong iniwan kaysa sa Tatay ko.
Nang makarating sa ospital ay walang pagdadalawang-isip na lumabas ako, sumunod
sa akin ang mga kasama ko at hinawakan ako ni Rai papasok sa ospital.
"Benjamin Mendez," I said desperately on the front desk. "I-I'm his daughter."
I saw the nurse looked at her records then her eyes mirrored pity as she stared
back at me.
"Ma'am, nasa left side ng first floor. Morgue." She said.
Humiwalay ako kay Rai, walang pagdadalawang-isip na tinakbo ang lugar na tinuro
n'ya.
"Sera!" He called pero hindi ko na pinansin, tinakbo ko ang lugar na sinasabi
ng nurse at kaagad na nakumpirma ang nangyari nang maabutan si Miggy na umiiyak
habang nakaupo sa bench.

Si nanay ay naroon rin, kausap ang doktor at kaagad akong

lumapit sa kanya.
"N-Nay..." I whispered.
"Mauna na ako, Mrs. Mendez." The doctor glanced at me and nodded before leaving
us.
"N-Nay," I called again.
Lumingon s'ya, her blazing eyes stared at me and I gasped when she slapped me
hard on the cheek.
"Kasalan mo itong babae ka!" She screamed at the top of her lungs.
I gasped when I felt the sting on my cheek. Napaiyak akong lalo roon.
"N-Nay..." I sobbed and tried walking towards her but she pushed me.
Dahil nanghihina ay walang hirap n'ya akong naitulak sa lapag.
"Hayop ka! Malas! Nawala rin ang asawa ko dahil sa'yong punyeta ka!" She
screamed.
"A-Ate!" Tinakbo ako ni Miggy at sinubukang protektahan ako pero hinila ko
s'ya.
"H'wag...H'wag, Migs." I whispered.
"H'wag kang mangialam dito, Miggy! Hayop itong kapatid mo! Kung nagtrabaho ka
sana sa halip na mag-aral kang peste ka! Sana ay hindi na nagpapagod ang Tatay mo!"
Sigaw n'ya.
"N-Nay..." Migs cried.
Hindi ako nakasagot, tama s'ya...kung hindi ako nag-aral...kung hindi sana...
"Mrs. Mendez!" A cold voice stopped my mother.
I saw how her hand froze in the air, nakita ko ang pag-iiba ng mukha n'ya.
"V-Vioxx," She called.
I was confused, hindi ko alam kung bakit kilala nila ang isa't-isa. Napaatras
si Nanay nang lumapit si Rai.
He slowly pulled me up, I was confused when he hid me on his back, hinarap ang
Nanay. Kinuha ko ang nanginginig na si Miggy at niyakap.
"May problema po ba?" Mahinahong tanong ni Rai, malamig ang tinig.
"W-Wala..." She shook her head, glancing at me sharply before walking away.
"A-Ate..." I gasped when I saw my brother crying while hugging my waist.
Napaluha akong lalo, mabilis na lumuhod at niyakap ang kapatid ko.
 "Shh, M-Miggy, ang puso mo..." I whispered.
"S-Si Tatay...Ate." He whispered painfully.
"Sshh, d-dito lang si Ate, hindi kita iiwan, Migs." I whispered.
We sobbed in each other's shoulder, nanghihina akong niyakap ng kapatid ko. He
was shaking, hinahaplos ko naman ang kanyang likod para kalmahin.
"D-Dito lang si Ate, Migs. M-Mahal na mahal kita." I whispered.
"K-Kuya?" Migs murmured.
Nang humiwalay ako sa kapatid ay nakita ko ang pagtakbo ni Migs kay Rai na
kaagad itong sinalubong.
My father died because of heart attack, nasa byahe raw ang Tatay nang inatake
s'ya. Namamasada at puno ang sinasakyang jeep pero nailigtas n'ya ang kanyang mga
pasahero.
Sa kabila ng nararamdaman ay naitabi n'ya ang jeep at napababa ang mga
tao...doon ay nawalan na s'ya ng malay ay hindi na inabot sa ospital.
"Ate...wala pa rin po si Nanay?" I glance at my brother and saw him hoping.
"Wala pa, Migs." I whispered softly, caressing his face. "B-Baka may
importante."
"Mag-tatatlong araw na, Ate. Hindi ba tayo importante kahit sa kanya? S-Si
Tatay?" Sumulyap s'ya sa kabaong na naroon sa gitna.

"Nandito naman si Ate, Migs." I smiled sadly at him.

"Pangako ni Ate na hindi kita pababayaan."
Sumandal s'ya sa'kin at kaagad kong hinaplos ang kanyang buhok.
"Sera, uuwi muna ako, huh? May kailangan lang akong asikasuhin pero babalik ako
kaagad." Napaayos ako ng upo nang makita si Ma'am Asunta sa harapan ko.
"Ayos lang po," I smiled. "Magpahinga po muna kayo, Ma'am. Salamat po sa
pagtulong sa'kin dito kahit hindi naman kailangan."
"Kailangan mo ng suporta ko," She smiled at me. "Hindi kita papabayaang mag-isa
sa ganitong sitwasyon, Sera."
My heart swelled. Napangiti ako at bahagyang lumayo kay Migs para yakapin si
Ma'am.
"Ang laki po ng utang na loob ko sa inyo, Ma'am...Maraming-maraming salamat
po."
"Wala iyon, anak." She whispered. "Nandito lang ako palagi, kami ni Marco."
"Salamat po," Bulong ko.
"Thank you po, Tita Asunta!" Sabay kaming napalingon at nakita ko ang pag-ngiti
ni Ma'am nang makita ang kapatid ko.
She lowered her body and hugged him, my heart swelled when I saw my brother's
genuine smile as he hugged her.
"Salamat po kasi tinutulungan n'yo po si Ate na mag-asikaso, Tita. Kasi po wala
na po s'yang tulog palagi at pagod, thank you po dahil hindi n'yo po s'ya
pinapabayaan."
My tears fell, nakita kong napangiti si Ma'am at hinawi ang luhang tumulo sa
kanyang pisngi bago harapin ang kapatid ko.
"Walang anuman, Migs. Masaya akong tinutulungan kayo ng Ate mo, mga anak ko na
kayo." She smiled and stared at me.
I smiled, nang tumayo s'ya mula sa pagkakadukwang ay ngumiti s'ya sa'kin.
"Saglit lang ako, Sera at babalik din, nand'yan naman si Marco kapag may
kailangan kang tulong. H'wag kang mahihiya magsabi." She smiled.
"Salamat po, Ma'am." I whispered genuinely.
"Walang anuman pero...Tita nalang, Sera." She smiled. "Mas ayos sa akin kung
tatawagin mo ako 'nun."
"Okay po, Tita." I said softly.
My brother went with Marco to play while I stayed sitting infront of my
father's coffin.
Never did I ever thought I'll see you like this, Tatay. Kasi diba, nangangarap
pa ako para sa pamilya natin? Kasi diba...i-aahon ko pa kayo sa kahirapan?
 I will graduate at gusto ko sanang ikaw ang magsasabit sa akin ng medalya pero
paano na ngayon, Tay? Bakit n'yo naman kami iniwan kaagad ni Miggy?
"Here," Napalingon ako sa tabi ko at nakita ang isang taong naging dahilan kung
bakit ako ganito kahina ngayon.
Inabot n'ya sa akin ang plato ng pagkain pero nag-iwas ako ng tingin at tumitig
kung saan.
"Hindi ako gutom,"
He sighed, naramdaman ko ang pag-upo n'ya sa tabi ko at ang marahang hawak sa
braso ko na mabilis kong hinawi.
"You should eat, please, kagabi ka pa walang kain." Mahinang sabi n'ya.
"Hindi nga ako gutom," I said and tried looking for my coffee but didn't saw it
beside me anymore. "Nasaan na 'yon..."
"I threw it," nagulat ako roon at kaagad s'yang nilingon at nangunot ang noo.
"You what?"
"Nung nakaraan ka pa umiinom 'nun," He sighed. "That isn't ideal anymore, what
you need now is food and rest."

"Hindi nga ako pagod, Engineer." I said hardly.

"You barely eat and sleep, kagabi ka pa walang tulog." Aniya.
"So?" I stared at him and raised my brow. "When did you start worrying about
me, huh?"
"Sera..." He reached for me.
"Please lang, Vioxx. If this is a part of your sick games, I'm fucking out. I
lose, okay? Nanalo ka na. Nakuha mo na ako, nakuha mo na ang tang inang lahat sa
akin, ano pa bang gusto mo?" Mariing sabi ko.
Pain mirrored his brown eyes, his disheveled hair fell on his forehead as he
touched my hand.
"S-Sorry, please, let's talk about this--"
"Stop with your bullshits, Miranda. Pagod na pagod na ako." Mariing sabi ko.
"Pagod na pagod na ako sa nangyayari sa buhay ko kaya pwede ba? Manahimik ka na?
Sarilihin mo nalang 'yang mga kasinungalingan mo."
He stared at me and I stared back at him, I didn't even bulge. I eyed him
sharply and saw how he surrendered when he lowered his head.
"I-I'm sorry..." He whispered.
"At bakit ba nandito ka? Diba may kompanya kang kailangang patakbuhin? Hindi ba
dapat kaysa sa niloloko mo ako rito ay nandoon ka at nagpapalago ng kompanya mo?"
"I just want to help," His tired eyes stare at me. "K-Kahit dito manlang ay
matulungan kita."
"Umuwi ka na at magpahinga," I said. "Salamat pero hindi ko kailangan ng tulong
mo."
"I won't," He sighed. "Dito lang ako."
"Babalik naman ako sa trabaho, m-matapos lang ang libing ni Tatay bukas ay
babalik ako."
"I know, baby...I know." He murmured.
"Balikan mo na 'yong Alice mo." I said painfully.
"She's nothing, okay? Let me explain, Sera, please?"
Umiling lang ako at umiwas, sumandal sa upuan at sinubukang pumikit dahil sa
pagod. I felt light-headed and felt someone holding me before I dozed off to sleep.
I woke up a bit disoriented, huli na rin nang matantong nakahiga na ako sa
pahabang upuan.
I shifted my gaze and my mouth parted a bit when I saw myself resting on
Vioxx's lap. Nakahiga ako sa kanyang hita habang s'ya ay nakapikit rin at
natutulog.
His other hand is on my face, placing it there to prevent me from falling.
Malalim din ang kanyang tulog kaya mabilis akong napaupo.
He almost jumped, mabilis na nagmulat at hinawakan ako.
"W-Why? Huh? N-Nahulog ka?" He asked in shock.
 His still bloodshot eyes flickered, panicking. Halos mapatawa naman ako sa
sobrang bangag n'ya pero nagdesisyonh hindi magpakita ng ngiti.
"Sana ginising mo ako," I said coldly.
He sighed and slowly nodded, letting my arm go. Umayos s'ya ng upo at sinuklay
ang kanyang buhok gamit ang daliri.
"I'm sorry, you slept so well so...I thought."
"Marami pa akong kailangang asikasuhin--"
"Ayos na, nandito sina Roff at Trisha kanina para tumulong."
"Si Migs?" Tumingin ako sa paligid.
"He's resting too, pinatulog muna roon sa may kwarto, don't worry,
pinapabantayan ko kay Lando." Aniya.
I nodded, glancing at the people visiting my father. Kadalasan ay mga
kapitbahay, iilan lang ang kaanak ni Tatay na dumating at ilang araw na ay hindi
manlang dumating si Nanay.

Simula noong sa ospital ay hindi s'ya nagpakita, ni mismo

sa pag-asikaso ng labi ni Tatay ay wala s'yang pakialam.
"You should eat, nagpaluto ako ng pagkain--"
"Ayos lang ako," I said and stood. Nakita ko si Marco roon sa gilid at
nagkakape kaya kaagad ko s'yang nilapitan.
I saw Vioxx's serious and pained expression but I looked away and smiled at
Marco.
"Sera," Ilang oras ang nakalipas at nagulat ako nang tawagin ako ni Marco.
Saglit kong iniwan ang mga bisita at lumapit sa kanya.
"Bakit?"
"May bisita." Aniya.
I fixed my white dress and walked with him and I stopped when I saw who it was.
Umawang ang labi ko sa gulat nang makita si Alice Tan na nakaitim na dress at
si Chairwoman na pinapayungan pa palapit sa maliit na chapel kung nasaan ang labi
ni Tatay.
Hindi ako kaagad nakagalaw, hinawakan lang ni Marco ang braso ko kaya
napasulyap ako sa kanya.
"Bakit nandito sila?" He whispered.
I glanced at them and saw Alice Tan removing her shades as she stare seriously
at me, I noticed a tug of smile on her lips which faded eventually.
Mrs. Miranda, the chairwoman, on her black ensemble suit and pants walked
towards me.
Sa likuran nila ang mga tauhan na may malalaking dalang mga bulaklak at
ipinupwesto sa labas ng kapilyo.
"C-Chairwoman," I called.
Mrs. Miranda removed her shades, her cold eyes stared at me.
"Condolence, Miss Mendez." She said stiffly.
I nodded.
"P-Pasok po kayo," She nodded and walked inside, naiwan si Alice at nakita ko
ang pagbaling n'ya sa akin.
"Condolence," It doesn't sound like a symphathy, it sounded more like pride.
Natigilan ako roon at malamig s'yang tinitigan.
"What?" She raised her brow at me.
Hindi na ako umimik at tinalikuran s'ya para pumasok.
I was confused what to offer, walang imik ang chairwoman habang nakaupo sa
upuan habang si Alice Tan ay lingon ng lingon sa paligid at ngingiwi.
I shook my head when I noticed her slowly taking her sanitizer out and cleaning
her hands.
"T-Tatawagin ko lang po si Engineer," I said but she stopped me.
"Later," She said and I stopped. "Let's talk, Miss Mendez. Ikaw ang gusto kong
makausap."
My heart thumped harder, nakita kong napangisi si Alice roon.
 "Sige po," I said softly.
She stood, pilit kong hinanap 'yong Engineer pero hindi ko makita kaya mas
kinabahan ako.
I lead her to an empty path near the chapel, kita ko ang pagtanggal n'ya ng
shades bago ako pagmasdan.
Her brown eyes resembled Vioxx a lot, she's petite and looked strict. Halos
magkasing-tangkad lang kami pero dahil sa suot na mataas na heels ay lamang s'ya sa
akin ngayon.
"First of all, I wanted to say my condolences for your lost." She said coldly.
"T-Thank you, Ma'am." I said and bowed a bit.
"How are you copping up?" She asked me.
"A-Ayos lang po, hindi ko lang po ine-expect dahil biglaan." I said softly.

She nodded, glancing at the chapel back to me.

"Kailan ang libing?"
"Bukas po," I murmured.
"That's good then," She nodded. "We'll compensate for his burial--"
"P-Po?"
"Let my son do it for you even for the last time, Miss Mendez."
"M-Ma'am?"
"I know you keep his card...under your name, right?" Natigilan ako sa sinabi
n'ya. "Alice told me, you also get money from him, right?"
"M-Ma'am...I..."
"It doesn't matter anymore, Miss Mendez. I understand my son is a bit attached
to you for some time but he's just like that. Katagalan ay magsasawa rin 'yan. He's
bound to get wed anyway, you don't expect him to be like this to you 'till then,
hmm?"
"I-I'm sorry po but kaya ko naman po bayaran ang pang-libing ni Tatay--"
"You have nothing to offer, Miss Mendez." Aniya at tinitigan ako. "Kaya
tanggapin mo na ang alok ko, minsan lang akong maging ganito kabait."
"Ma'am--"
"After this, I expect my son to be back at work, tapos na ang kahibangan
kakasunod sa'yo na pera lang naman ang gusto."
"Hindi po sa ganoon--"
"My son became incompetent this past few weeks because of you!" She exclaimed.
"He skipped important projects and meetings because of you!"
"Ma'am..." I sighed and closed my eyes, "Hindi ko naman po ata kasalanan na
hindi s'ya dumadalo sa meeting."
"Wow," She shook her head. "You have the guts now to answer back, huh? H'wag mo
na akong lokohin, alam kong pera lang ng anak ko--"
"Take all your money and I won't care, Ma'am." I said hardly. "Mawalang-galang
na po pero ang anak n'yo ang nanloko sa akin--"
"Stop lying, Miss Mendez!" Her voice roared. "You fooled him around for his
money, parehas kayo ng Nanay mong mukhang pera!"
Kumunot ang noo ko roon.
"Ano pong ibig n'yong sabihin? Usapan natin 'to, h'wag n'yong idadamay ang
Nanay ko--"
"As if your mother don't ask my son for money, huh?"
Nagulat ako roon.
"P-Po? Anong--"
"I'm surprised you didn't know," She chuckled. "But it's quite easy to pretend
to not know anything."
"What do you mean? Hindi gagawin iyon--"
"Of course, yes! Nagawa na nga n'ya. He's been asking my son for money! Hindi
lang ikaw, pati ang pobreng Nanay mo."
Natulala ako at hindi nakapagsalita, biglang naalala ang pera ni Nanay, ang mga
bagong gamit na mayroon s'ya.
 "H-Hindi ko po alam..." I whispered. "Kakausapin ko si Nanay--"
"Dapat lang," She stared at me. "Tell her to stop talking to my son and
you...you stay the hell away from him too."
Hindi ako kaagad umimik roon.
"He deserves better, he deserves someone high, someone on our circle. Hindi ko
hahayaang bumaba ang anak ko sa kagaya mo."
My heart crumpled, kumuyom ang kamay ko at mas bumilis ang paghinga sa sinabi
n'ya.
"H'wag po kayong mag-alala, Ma'am. L-Lalayo po ako sa kanya." I said and
lowered my head.

"Dapat lang," She smiled coldly. "Madali ka naman pala

kausap, that's what I like about you. Just hoping you keep your words."
I pinched my fingers to stop myself from crying.
"After your internship in my company, I hope you'll be gone in my son's life."
She said.
I nodded slowly. "I will."
"Ate...nand'yan na si Nanay!" Napalingon ako sa kapatid ko at napaayos ng tayo
mula sa pagkakatulala nang iwan ako ng chairwoman.
"H-Huh?"
"Si Nanay po dumating ngayon lang, kausap po ni Kuya Rai." Aniya.
My forehead creased, nang ituro ng kapatid ko saan sila nagtungo ay kaagad
akong pumunta roon para kausapin si Nanay.
"Do you need it right now, Ma'am? Hindi ko po kasi kaagad maaasikaso dahil
kailangan kong tulungan si Sera--"
"Kailangan ko ngayon na!" Nanay exclaimed.
Mas kumunot ang noo ko at sinilip sila. I gasped when I saw them talking.
"Ma'am, I can deposit it in your account after your husband--"
"Hinahabol na ako ng pinagkaka-utangan ko! Iisipin ko pa ba 'yan?" She
exclaimed.
"But Ma'am--"
"Sasaktan ko si Serafine!" My eyes widen when she threatened him with that.
Vioxx sighed, tumiim ang panga sa galit.
"Ma'am, napag-usapan na natin 'to--"
"Oo nga! Hindi ko s'ya papakialaman kung bibigyan mo ako! Tumutupad naman ako,
ah!"
"Let me just remind you what you did in the hospital."
"Nagalit nga ako! Sinong hindi magagalit sa pesteng babaeng--"
"Alright," He sighed. "I'll transfer it immediately...just don't touch Sera."
"Okay, madali naman akong kausap." She smiled evilly.
Vioxx closed his eyes and took his phone to talk to someone before looking at
her.
"It's done," He said and that's when she left with a triumphant smile on her
face.
Vioxx remained standing there, brushing his hair frustatedly as he kicked the
tree.
"Fuck!" He cursed.
"I hope this will be the last time you'll meddle with my life, Engr. Miranda."
I called his attention.
He stopped, I saw him stared at me, shock was visible on his face.
"Sera," He called. "Kanina ka pa ba?"
"Enough for me to hear you and my mother's conversation." I stared at him and I
saw him took a step closer to me.
"I just want to--"
"Bakit kailangan mo pa s'yang bigyan ng pera, huh?" I stared at him coldly.
"Bakit ka ba nangingialam sa buhay ko?"
"She's hurting you, Sera." He explained. "What am I supposed to do? It's my
only way to keep her from hurting you."
"Coming from you? Ano naman ngayon kung nasasaktan ako? Sanay na ako! Ilang
taon na kaming ganito! Bakit kailangan mo pang pakialaman ang Nanay ko! Bakit
kailangan mo pang suhulan s'ya ng pera?!"
"Para hindi ka saktan!" He exclaimed. "Fuck, Sera! Ayokong makita ang mga pasa
at sugat mo! Hindi ko kayang nagtatago ka sa akin ng ilang araw para lang hindi ko
makita ang mga pasang galing sa kanya!"

I closed my eyes, sinabunutan ang buhok at pagod s'yang

tinignan.
"Wala kang karapatan panghimasukan ang buhay ko! Wala kang pakialam na
sinasaktan ako!"
"Of course I care! I care because I love you! Ayokong sinasaktan ka, Serafine!
Kasi mahal kita! Sa tingin mo kaya kong tignan kang nasasaktan kung mayroon naman
akong paraan para itigil 'yon?" Nangilid ang luha sa mga mata n'ya.
"Talaga? Sa tingin mo may pinagkaiba ang pananakit ni Nanay sa pananakit mo
sa'kin?" Pumiyok ang boses ko nang sabihin iyon.
He was stunned, umawang ang labi n'ya at suminghap.
"Sa tingin mo mas masakit iyong pisikal na pananakit n'ya kaysa sa paglalaro mo
sa'kin? Hindi, Vioxx. Mas masakit 'yong paglalaro mo sa puso ko kasi minahal kita!
Kasi mahal kita!" Sumbat ko at tinuro s'ya.
"S-Sera..." He moved closer but I pushed him.
"Yong kay Nanay, masakit 'yon pero sanay na ako! Pero 'yong sa'yo? Mas masakit
'yon kasi pinagkatiwalaan kita! Akala ko ikaw 'yong kakampi ko pero putang ina,
pinaglalaruan mo lang pala ako!"
"I-I love you... Please, kung papakinggan mo lang ako--"
"Asshole," I shook my head. "You're a fucking asshole, Miranda. Pinagsisisihan
kong nakilala pa kita."
I took a step back when he advanced a step, pilit akong inaabot pero umatras
lang ako.
"Sera!" Nakita kong patakbong lumalapit si Marco sa amin kaya natigilan ako.
Nakita kong nagtataka s'ya sa aming dalawa pero kaagad s'yang bumaling sa akin.
"S-Sera, si Migs." He said.
I panicked, sa kabila ng luha ay pilit ko s'yang sinundan at halos manghina
nang makitang karga ni Lando ang kapatid ko na walang malay.
Sa paglingon ko ay nakita ko ang sigawan ni Nanay at Tita Asunta.
"A-Anong..."
"He fainted and had difficulty in breathing when he saw your mother but she
ignored him, tapos dagdag pa itong nag-aaway sila." Paliwanag ni Marco.
"Ang sasakyan, Lando!" Nakita ko si Vioxx na kinuha ang kapatid ko mula kay
Lando at binuhat bago nagtungo ang inutusan sa labas.
Gulong-gulo na ako, litong-lito sa nangyayari. Ang sigawan ni Nanay at Tita
Asunta ay tuloy-tuloy at nagkakagulo na ang mga tao.
"Tama na!" I screamed at the top of my lungs and they both stop.
"Nahimatay na iyong kapatid ko! Hindi ba kayo titigil?!" I screamed
frustatedly.
I saw Nanay stood straight, nagpanic din si Tita Asunta at napailing nalang ako
at mabilis na tinakbo ang pwesto ni Vioxx habang buhat ang kapatid ko patungo sa
sasakyan.
Habang nasa emergency room ang kapatid ko ay tulala ako, halo-halo na ang nasa
utak.
Si Vioxx ay kausap ang doktor doon at iilang nurse habang ako ay wala na sa
sarili at nakatitig nalang kung saan.
"Ikaw ang may kasalanan kaya nandito ngayon ang anak ko!" Nanay exclaimed.
"I was just asking you to tell her the truth! Ikaw itong nagsimula ng away,
tapos ako ang sisisihin mo?" Mariing sabi ni Tita Asunta.
I remained listening, hindi na sila sinaway dahil sa totoo lang ay pagod na
pagod na ako.
Pagod na akong mag-isip, pagod na akong umiyak, pagod na akong masaktan.
"Totoo naman, kung hindi ka dumating ay ayos ang lahat! Ang kamalasan ko naman
sa buhay nagsimula nang dumating kayong mga Flores! Lahat kayo malas! Lahat kayo
mga salot!"
"I was just asking you to give me my niece back! She deserves the truth you all
keeping from her! She doesn't deserve her suffering! If only you decide to tell it
to her--"
"Para saan pa? Walang kwenta ang batang iyan! Malas ang bigay n'yan sa buhay
ko! Bakit mo pa sasabihin kung sino ang malandi n'yang ina, huh?!"
"Don't you dare insult my sister, Divina! Wala kang alam!" I stopped when I
heard that.
"Alam ko! Alam kong nilandi ng kapatid mong iyan ang asawa ko!"
"You two weren't married when she came--"
"Kahit na! Maninira ng pamilya ang nanay ng babaeng 'yan kaya ipinanganak
s'yang malas!" She exclaimed.
I sighed, napailing at tinakpan ang mukha ko para pigilan ang luha.
"Kaya bakit mo pa kukunin? Bibigyan mo ng magandang buhay? Hindi n'ya deserve
iyan dahil sa kamalasan n'yang dala sa pamilya ko--"
"She is my sister's heiress, Divina!" Tita Asunta exclaimed. "She's the sole
owner of her properties and businesses so, shut up!"

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 19

Hi, sorry for the late updates. I'm quite busy and I can't
promise daily updates, I'll only update if I have time.
Thank you! Enjoy!
xxx
Kabanata 19
"Kahit ngayon lang...pwede ba?" I muttered frustatedly.
Natahimik sila, Tita Asunta sighed then stared at me softly. Gulat pa rin ako
sa narinig pero wala akong lakas para magtanong, ang tanging nasa isip ko lamang ay
ang kapatid ko at ang kaligtasan n'ya.
"Sera..." She murmured.
"Aalis muna ako, siguraduhin mong magiging maayos ang anak ko pagkabalik ko,
Serafine." Nanay pointed me and rolled her eyes, walking away from me.
Sinapo ko ang mukha at mariing napapikit.
"S-Sera... I'm sorry, m-magpapaliwanag ako." Tita said.
"Pati ba naman ikaw?" I asked her weakly.
I saw the pain and regret on her eyes, she sighed and tried holding me.
"S-Sorry, hindi ko intensyong itago sa'yo." She murmured.
Hindi ako umimik at nanatiling nakatitig sa aking mga kamay na hawak n'ya.
"Sana...sana, pakinggan mo ako."
"Sa susunod na..." I murmured and stared at her. "I don't want something to bother
me this time, ang kapatid ko...mas kailangan n'ya ako ngayon."
She nodded, understanding me. Napasinghap ako nang haplusin n'ya ang kamay ko
at maya-maya'y niyakap ako.
"I understand, dito lang ako. Salamat, Sera. We will pray for Miggy." She
whispered.
My tears fell, suminghap ako at niyakap s'ya pabalik.
"M-Magiging maayos s'ya, di ba?" I whispered.
"Of course...Sssh, of course, magiging maayos s'ya." Haplos n'ya sa aking
likod.
I caught Vioxx walking towards us, may hinahanap ang mga mata at nang magtagpo
ang mata namin ay kaagad akong nag-iwas ng tingin at humiwalay kay Tita.
 I harshly dried my tears, sobbing a bit and trying my best to calm down.
"Sino pong kaanak ng pasyente?" I immediately stood from my seat when the
emergency room opened and the doctor went out.
I saw Vioxx standing near the doctor, hindi ko s'ya pinansin at dumiretso sa
doktor.
"Kapatid ko po... Ano pong nangyari? Kumusta po ang kapatid ko?"
"Miss Mendez," He nodded. "As much as I want to say that he's doing fine, he's
not as of the moment."
Kumalabog ang puso ko roon at nangilid ang luha ko.
"His stress this past few days weakened his heart more, emotional stress isn't
good for him, right? And he had shortness of breath because of it. His scheduled
operation, unfortunately has to be as early as now."
I gasped, mariing naipikit ko ang mata.
I felt someone holding my arm, sa paglingon ko ay nakita ko si Vioxx na
inaalalayan ako.
"Then, let's push through the operation," He suddenly spoke, napatingin sa
kanya ang doktor at tumango.
"We will, engineer. We can't prolong the process, nasa panganib ang buhay ng
pasyente."
Hindi na ako nakapagsalita nang manginig ang katawan ko sa takot. Takot para sa
kapatid ko, takot para sa operasyon n'ya at sa kanyang kaligtasan.
"G-Gawin n'yo ang lahat, p-pakiusap...Iligtas n'yo ang kapatid ko." I murmured
desperately.

I saw the glint of sadness on the physician's eyes as he

nodded at me with a faint smile on his face.
"We will, Miss Mendez. We will do our best." He nodded. "Mauuna na ako at
aasikasuhin ang operasyon." He said.
"Engineer Miranda, Ma'am..." She looked at Tita Asunta then back to me. "Miss
Mendez."
Pagkatalikod palang n'ya ay nanghina na ako, it was as if my world turned
upside down. The pain felt heavy on my chest.
I soft pull on my arm and I am buried on Vioxx's chest. Lumaban ako 'nung una,
pilit na tinutulak s'ya pero mas malakas ang kanyang hawak sa akin.
I sobbed when he held me on his chest, walang tigil na tumulo ang luha ko
habang hinahampas ang kanyang dibdib.
"B-Bitawan mo ako!"
"No," He whispered, his arms embracing me tightly. "Just let me hug you,
please."
"N-No..."
"P-Please, baby..." He whispered.
Sa panghihina ay hindi na ako nakagalaw, suminghap ako at mas yumakap s'ya sa
akin habang mahinang bumubulong.
"It's gonna be alright," He hummed and caressed my back.
I let him, kabila ng pag-iyak ko ay tahimik lang s'ya habang yakap ako. He keep
on caressing my back and kissing my hair.
"Kukuha lang ako ng tubig," I heard Tita's voice.
I felt myself started calming down with his warmth, I closed my eyes, I felt
him slowly pushing me to assist me sit.
Nanghihinang naupo ako, tumabi naman s'ya sa akin at marahang tinanggal ang
buhok sa aking mukha.
He put my hair behind my ear, his fingers drying my tears.
"S-Si Tatay..."
"I assigned people there," He murmured. "Everything's good, don't worry."
I sighed, umiwas ako nang hawakan na n'ya ang pisngi ko.
"Sera..."
"S-Salamat, p-pwede ka na umuwi, alam kong busy ka."
 "No, I'll stay here with you."
"You should go," I whispered.
"No, I'm staying with you." He said in finality. I sighed, hindi na umimik at
napatingin kay Marco na papalapit na sa amin.
"Sera," He called.
Tumayo ako at lumapit sa kanya, nang yakapin n'ya ako ay napabuntong-hininga
ako at niyakap s'ya pabalik.
"M-Marco..."
"We're sorry we kept this a secret," He whispered and I gasped and hugged him
tight.
Thankfully, my brother's operation is successful pero hindi pa roon nagtatapos
ang lahat, the next morning, we have to push through with my father's burial.
Sobrang bigat ng dibdib ko habang nakatitig sa kabaong na unti-unting
tinatakpan ng lupa.
My tears are falling, sa pagtapon ko ng puting rosas sa kanyang himlayan ay
hindi ko maiwasang isipin at alalahanin ang lahat ng kabutihang ibinigay sa akin ni
Tatay.
I remembered him humming to sleep when I was still a child, I remembered him
giving us his share of food when we're just a kid if we wanted more, kahit wala na
s'ya...basta ay mayroon kami.
Ni wala akong nagawa sa sakit n'ya...
Tay, akala ko ba aantayin mo akong makaakyat sa entablado sa graduation ko?
Tay, bakit naman ganito?

I sniffed, the small sobs turned to loud ones. Hinabol ko

ang paghinga habang kuyom ang kamay at pinagmamasdan ang himalayan n'yang nilalamon
ng lupa.
Hindi ko na kinaya kaya mabilis akong umalis at pumunta sa tagong lugar.
A touch on my stomach and I am breaking down, I don't care whoever that was.
Mas napahagulgol ako at isang mahigpit na yakap ang naramdaman ko.
"Sshh," A soft voice hummed.
Mas napaluha pa nang marinig ang boses na iyon. Ni wala akong lakas kumawala at
pilit na kumukuha sa lakas na ibinibigay n'ya.
Bakit lahat ng taong minamahal ko ay unti-unting kinukuha sa akin? Wala ba
talaga akong karapatang maging masaya?
"Hey, look at me..." He tried touching my cheek, tilting my head so he can see
my eyes.
His brown eyes pierced through me, his face filled with pain and unknown
emotions, he looks so lost too, like me.
"Calm down, baby, okay?" He cupped my cheek.
Walang namutawi sa labi ko at patuloy ang pagtulo ng luha sa mga mata ko.
"M-May mali ba sa akin para iwanan akong mag-isa?"
"No," He immediately shook his head. "Nothing wrong with you."
"K-Kung sana...sana mas napagtuunan ko ng pansin si Tatay... Sana buhay pa
s'ya...Sana--"
"Hindi mo kasalanan, Serafine..." He murmured. "Listen, you did your best--"
"No! Kung ginawa ko ang best ko edi sana--"
"No...No... Please, listen. You did your best, and you're not alone, nandito pa
naman si Miggy, ako..."
Tinitigan ko s'ya at mas sumikip ang puso ko.
"N-Nauna ka pa ngang iwanan ako kaysa kay Tatay..." I whispered.
"S-Sera..." His voice broke. "I..."
"P-Pagod na pagod na akong magmahal," I whispered.
"No..." He shook his head. "Give me a chance, please? I'll make it up to you--"
"No..." Umiling ako at bahagyang lumayo. "I won't burn with that said painful
love again."
I slowly moved away from him and he weakly dropped his hand and stared at me.
 "P-Pagbabayaran ko," He whispered.
I shook my head.
"I-I want you gone,"
He didn't say anything, I saw how his eyes reddenened with my words.
"S-Sera,"
"If that said love you have is true then, leave me. H'wag mo akong guguluhin,
h'wag mo na ako kahit kailan lapitan."
His breathing labored, I saw how tears streamed down his eyes. He tilted his
head up, his jaw clenching.
"Tatapusin ko ang intership sa kompanya mo at aalis na rin ako," I said
painfully.
I saw his hand in fist, clenching his jaw to stop himself from crying but he
failed, marahas na hinawi n'ya ang luha at frustated na suminghap.
"I love you..." He murmured and stared at me. "I-I only did that because I
wanted to protect you..."
"From who? From you?" I sniffed.
"N-No... Listen--"
"Kapag nasa panganib ka, Vioxx. Poprotektahan kita...pero hindi sa paraang
ginawa mo. I loved you, I adored you so much...yet you made me feel like I was a
trash you can dispose anytime... A bitch, right?"

"S-Sera..."
"Kung pagmamahal ang ginawa mo, ang babaw naman." I whispered.
Tumungo s'ya, nabakas ko ang pagkalugmok roon.
Hindi na s'ya umimik pa at nanatiling nakatungo, I remained looking at him,
sighing and shaking my head.
"I'll go, salamat sa lahat ng tulong." I said, drying my tears and sighed,
staring at him briefly before walking away.
Halos isang buong araw ang inantay ko bago magising ang kapatid ko, Nanay never
showed up again which made my heart ache.
Pati manlang kay Miggy ay wala s'yang pakialam?
Si Marco at Tita lang ang kasama ko sa pag-aasikaso sa aking kapatid, hindi pa
s'ya makausap sa ngayon pero wala ayos na iyon, amg pinakamahalaga lamang sa akin
ay maging maayos s'ya.
Unfortunately, Marco and Tita had to leave for a while to check on the resto,
doon rin dumating si Nanay na hinabol pa ng nurse nang pumasok sa kwarto na may
dalang sigarilyo.
"Nay!" I warned.
Nahabol s'ya ng nurse na kaagad s'yang pinagsabihan.
"Ah, ganun ba?" She raised her brow. Tinapon ang sigarilyo at kumunot ang noo.
"Okay na?"
"Sige, Ma'am, pero sa susunod po sana--"
"Oo, umalis ka na, alam ko." She hissed.
The nurse left, suminghap ako at napailing sa kanya.
"Nay, sa labas na po tayo mag-usap." I murmured. "Si Miggy--"
"Pahingi ng pera," She suddenly said.
"Ano?" I gasped. "Nay, kakaopera lang ni Miggy, kakalibing lang ng Tatay, kahit
ngayon ba pwedeng tama na?"
She laughed, shaking her head.
"Bakit wala ka bang pera? Tang ina, di ba heredera ka? Nasaan ang mana mong
tang ina ka?"
"Pwede ba?" I shook my head. "Konsiderasyon naman, Nay!"
"Konsiderasyon? Huh! Pabigat ka nga lang sa pamilyang 'to--"
"Magkano ang ibinayad sa'yo ni Engineer?" I hissed. "Hindi pa ba iyon sapat,
huh, Nay?"
"Ipinambayad ko sa utang! Bigyan mo nalang kasi--"
"I-kwenta mo lahat ng perang ibinayad sa'yo ng lalaking 'yon."
 "At bakit?" Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"Ibabalik ang perang ginastos n'ya sa'yo, hindi ako papayag na may utang na
loob ako sa lalaking 'yon."
"May pera ka?" She mocked. "Makapagsalita ka, mayabang ka na? Porket heredera
ka?"
"Hindi 'yon, Nay." I tried my best to be patient. "Ang iniisip ko ay ang
ibinayad n'ya sa'yo, para ano? Para hindi ako saktan? Ibabalik ko kung anong
ibinayad n'ya sa'yo...at ikaw, hindi ka na tatanggap ng kahit ano--"
"Aba't--"
"Sana maisip mo ang kalagayan ng kapatid ko, kakamatay lang din ng Tatay ko
kaya kaunting konsiderasyon naman, Nay." I sighed.
"Punyeta! Wala ka talagang kwenta!" She hissed. "Pabigat ka pa rin sa buhay ko!
Hanggang ngayon!"
Umiling ako at umiwas, tahimik na umupo sa sofa at galit s'yang nagtungo sa
akin at dinuro ako.
"Wala kang utang na loob!"
I didn't say anything and just stared at her.
"Simula ngayon ikaw na ang bahala sa buhay mo! Wala na akong pakialam sa'yo!
Alagaan mo ang kapatid mo! Di ba, d'yan ka naman magaling? Ang magpanggap na may
pakialam ka? Magpanggap na santa? Sige, ikaw ang bumuhay d'yan at bahala na kayo!"
She threatened me.

I stayed quiet, nakita ko ang galit sa kanya roon.

"Kailan ka ba nagmalasakit sa amin?" I whispered.
"Tang ina ka!" She slapped me hard on the cheek, I just laughed softly.
Ano bang bago?
"Ito ang tandaan mo, hindi na kita lalapitan! Ikaw na ang bahala d'yan sa
kapatid mo! Mga pabigat!" Sigaw n'ya at mabilis na umalis.
I sighed, sinundan s'ya ng tingin at kaagad na natigilan nang makita si Miggy
na nakamulat at nakatitig sa akin.
"Migs," I immediately stood and walked towards him, smiling when I saw his sad
eyes.
"P-Pabigat po ba ako, Ate?"
"No," I immediately shook my head. "Of course not, Migs. Hinding-hindi ka
magiging pabigat kay Ate..."
"P-Pero po...si Nanay..."
"She's just like that, h'wag kang mag-alala, dito lang akoa palagi, hinding-
hindi kita iiwan." Suyo ko.
His tears fell, napaluha rin ako roon at hinaplos ang kanyang pisngi.
"I love you so much, Migs. Mahal na mahal ka ni Ate." I whispered.
"S-Salamat po, Ate. I love you." He whispered with tears on his eyes.
The next week, I am able to get back to class and start my internship again.
Nakiramay ang mga kaklase ko at naintindihan ng mga professor ang naging kalagayan
ko.
I took remedial and make-up class and quizzes para makahabol, I began fixing my
school paper too because Tita Asunta is encouraging me to continue my last semester
to her place, to my mother's place.
I agreed, realizing a missed a lot of opportunity in this world, mga bagay na
mayroon ako pero naipagkait.
"Lando, alam kong nand'yan ka..." Tumigil ako sa paglalakad at nilingon ang
likuran ko.
I saw Lando panicking, nagpapanggap pang nawawala at nagtago sa may gilid ng
paso pero sa laki n'ya ay halatang-halata.
I rolled my eyes at him, he looks guilty and slowly moved away from the plants.
"Uhm, hello, Ma'am." He smiled.
"At bakit ka nandito?"
"Napadaan lang," Aniya.
 "Oh, really?" I raised my brow. "Nasaan na 'yong boss mo? Bakit mo pa ako
pinapasundan? Wala na si Tatay, ano pa ba?"
"Ma'am, ano kasi..."
"Don't tell me suspect din ako?"
"Hindi po," He shook his head. "Ang totoo kasi n'yan, hindi naman talaga ang
Tatay mo ang binabantayan ko, ikaw talaga."
"Ano? Para hindi ko maitakas ang tatay ko?"
"Hindi po, protektahan ka, 'yon lang. Hindi pa naman kasi nahuhuli ang may gawa
may Ma'am Akisha--"
"Tell your boss to fuck off, walang may banta sa buhay ko. I am perfectly fine,
the last thing I would like now is him...meddling with my life, okay?"
"Pero Ma'am, hindi pa po ligtas--"
"H'wag n'ya kamo ako idamay sa gulo n'ya. I told him to stop bothering me,
h'wag kamo s'ya mag-alala, babalik naman ako sa intership ko, and I filed a leave
first. Bukas ang balik ko." I said.
He blinked, napakamot pa ng kilay.
"Pero kasi, Ma'am...Si Engineer..."
"Nasaan ba 'yang lalaking 'yan?"

"Nasa Maynila po ngayon, Ma'am. May on-site inspection para

sa mga naiwang trabaho."
"Okay, call him. Tell him I don't want anyone following me around, wala na si
Tatay, hindi n'yo na ako kailangang pasundan." I crossed my arms.
"Sige, Ma'am, hindi nalang po ako papakita sa'yo." Aniya.
Nahilot ko ang sentido ko.
"Lando..." I warned.
"S-Susubukan," He cleared his throat. "Pero hanggang hindi pa po pumapayag ay
hindi ako titigil sa pagsunod sa'yo."
"Santisima," I sighed and rolled my eyes. "Ewan ko sa inyo ng amo mo."
I gasped and turned my back and walked away, leaving the confused guard there.
Sir Roff, Trisha and some of my friends welcomed me in the office. Masaya ako
sa kanilang pagkausap sa akin, lahat sila ay masaya, walang kahit sinumang nag-
attempt na ipaalala ang nangyari sa akin.
I was glad I had one of a kind friendship from them, that kind of friendship I
never had with my friends before... Friendship that is true, without considering
our status in the community.
Isang linggo ang nakalipas pero hindi ko pa rin nakikita si Engineer, some says
he's busy and currently working in Manila.
I even saw Alice Tan glaring at me every chances she have pero hindi makalapit
dahil palagi akong napapalibutan ng mga kaibigan.
Lando never did leave me alone, kahit anong sabi ko ay desidido talagang
magbantay sa akin.
I woke up late one day and I was annoyed because I am late, wala pa ako sa
sarili nang makapasok sa building ng firm ay iritado kay Lando.
"Hindi mo manlang ako ginising..." Reklamo ko.
"B-Bawal ako pumasok?" Gulong sabi n'ya.
"Ewan!" I hissed.
He looks confused, alam kong mali ko naman pero hindi ako masayang maging late
sa huling araw ko sa internship na iyon.
I am supposed to go out at five but I am two hours late! Kaya I got no choice
but to stay in the office late too to complete the hours!
Napasinghap ako nang makitang papasara na ang pinto ng elevator kaya mabilis
kong tinakbo iyon.
Iniharang ko ang kamay ko at laking pasalamat ko nang magbukas iyon.
I went inside, catching my breath, tulala pa si Lando roon kaya pinanlakihan ko
s'ya ng mata.
"Pasok na, late na ako!" I groaned.
 "Pero si..." He pointed at something.
"Sumunod ka nalang," I froze when I hear a voice, mabilis na napalingon at
nanlaki ang mata nang makita ang lalaking ilang linggong hindi sumusulpot sa
opisina.
My mouth parted, kita ang pag-atras ni Lando sa elevator palabas at hahabol
sana ako nang marinig ko ang sunod-sunod na pindot sa elevator para sumara iyon.
"What... Lalabas nga ako!" I groaned.
He smirked when the door closed, shifting his gaze at me and stared at his
watch.
"And I thought you're late," he muttered.
"Don't talk to me." I rolled my eyes.
"Kumain ka na?" He asked.
"Paki mo?" I murmured.
"Anong gusto mo? Ipapahanda kita--"
"Ano ba sa salitang don't talk to me ang hindi mo maintindihan?" I spatted.

He stopped, I saw how his smile faded with that.

"I...just--"
"I just want to have a peaceful last day in this firm, okay?"
Hindi s'ya kaagad nakapagsalita, I saw him frozen in place at nang bumukas ang
elevator ay mabilis akong lumabas, nagulat pa ako ng makita ang chairwoman at si
Alice na magkasama pero mahina lang akong bumati at mabilis na umalis.
I got a food delivered thirty minutes after, nagtataka pa ako pero naisip din
kung sino ang pwedeng magbigay nito.
Tahimik akong kumain sa pantry at mabilis na inasikaso ang mga kailangan para
sa huling araw na ito.
My schoolmates are done taking their interships, dahil nga sa nahuli ako ay
ngayon lang ako matatapos at mag-isa nalang.
The whole afternoon was peaceful, I saw him went out once from his office for a
meeting, istrikto nanaman at seryoso.
I even caught him looking at me but I looked away and focused my attention with
my work. Sa pagbalik naman n'ya sa opisina noong tanghali ay hindi na s'ya muling
lumabas pa at napaisip din ako kung nagtanghalian manlang ba s'ya?
Alas-singko nang umalis ang mga tao sa opisina.
Naiwan ako at ang ibang employee para sa overtime at may mga utility na ring
naglilinis.
It was six o'clock and it was kinda dark, dim na rin ang ilaw sa buong opisina
pero ni hindi manlang ito lumabas mula sa kanyang opisina.
I was curious but kept it to myself, nakita ko pa ang pagpasok ng chairwoman sa
kanyang opisina.
Inayos ko ang mga papeles na kailangan ko para mapapirmahan kay Engineer
Miranda at sumulyap sa orasan.
It's been ten minutes since his mom went inside.
I stopped when I heard faint shouts and voice, napatayo ako sa upuan, mabilis
na naglakad palapit sa opisina n'ya para sana magtanong sa ingay pero natigilan sa
sagutan nilang mag-ina.
"You have to marry Alice, Vioxx! Ilang beses ko na ba itong sinabi sa'yo?! We
need them! We need their family!"
"No," I heard his cold voice. "I will never marry her, Mom. Ilang beses ko na
rin bang sasabihin sa'yo?"
"Bastard! All you have to do is marry her! Anong problema roon, huh, Vioxx? All
your life, we pampered you--"
"You never pampered me, Mom!" His voice raised. "I respected you because you
are my mother! I followed everything you asked me to! Naging sunod-sunuran ako sa
lahat ng gusto mo! You asked me to work here and I did, kahit na matagal ko nang
sinabi sa'yong gusto kong magsimula ng sarili ko...nang pinaghirapan ko!"
"You asked me to marry Akisha and I obligued, you asked me to marry Alice and I
know I should but I can't, Mom! Siguro oo, noon, susunod lang ako kagaya ng gusto
mo pero iba ang gusto ko ngayon. I wanted to stand for myself for the first time
now, I wanted to marry the woman I love, I wanted to do what I wanted to for the
first time!"
"Alam mong wala ka rito ngayon sa posisyon mo kung wala ako! Wala kang utang na
loob! Hindi mo naisip ang hirap ko sa'yo! Kahit anak ka sa labas ng tatay mo! Kahit
bastardo ka lang!"
I froze when I heard that, marahas akong napalunok at napakurap.
"I love you, Mom...and I am thankful you cared for me...but isn't it right for
me to choose what I want and stand for myself sometimes?" He asked weakly. "M-
Masama bang gawin ko rin ang gusto ko? Masama bang pumili ako ng gusto kong
pakasalan?"
"A-All this time...all I want is to make you proud of me, p-para kahit papaano
ay hindi mo maisip ang kasalanan ni Dad. I wanted so bad to make you proud...but I
started forgetting the things I wanted to do in the first place. I sometimes forget
who I really am because I keep on pleasing you."

"You bastard! Wala kang karapatang sumbatan ako!" She

exclaimed. "Sampid ka lang! Kaya wala kang karapatang manumbat!"
"I am not," I saw his tears fell. "I-I just want you to hear me sometimes, I
just want you to know that this is not what I want... I wanted so bad to ask you to
let me do things I wanted, g-gusto kong sabihin sa'yong ko rin namang maging malaya
minsan."
"Y-You..." She pointed his son. "You imbecile!"
"I-I won't marry, Alice. I won't, Mom, I'm sorry..." He shook his head.
"Bastard! Wala kang utang na loob! Sana hindi nalang kita kinupkop! Ayan ang
gusto mo? Sige, lumayas ka rito! I never wanted an ungrateful bastard in the first
place! Umalis ka rito, gusto mong maging malaya? Then, go! I don't need you here,
bastardo ka lang naman! I will take everything from you that you will wish you
shouldn't have go against me!" She exclaimed.
I almost gasped when she slapped him hard on the cheek.
Nang makitang paalis na s'ya ay kinabahan ako, I quickly ran on my table and
pretended to be reading.
Chairwoman saw me and walked towards me, her sharp eyes glared at me.
"It's your last day, right?" Malamig n'yang turan.
"Yes, Ma'am." I said.
"Then hurry, I don't want you in this firm anymore." Mariing sabi n'ya at
padabog na umalis.
Moments have passed and it's my time to go now, napasulyap ako sa papeles na
hawak ko pabalik sa opisina ni Vioxx.
I should give this to him and leave...
I sighed, kipkip ang bag ko ay marahan akong naglakad patungo sa kanyang
opisina.
May kaunting awang ang pintuan nito, I walked towards it, sumilip ng bahagya at
kaagad na natigilan nang makita ang nagkalat na basag na vase sa lapag at ang
nakaupong si Vioxx sa lapag habang nakasandal sa kanyang lamesa.
I was startled, aatras na sana para h'wag s'yang guluhin pero tumunog ang
pintuan nang mabangga ko.
He shifted his gaze at me, nakita ko ang lamlam ng pagod n'yang mga mata at
mabilis akong tumikhim at marahang pumasok.
"B-Bibigay ko lang sana 'yong pipirmahan mo," I said formally.
He didn't say anything, nakita ko ang pag-iwas n'ya ng tingin sa akin at muling
pagbaling sa kawalan.
He stared blankly somewhere, still seated like a lost kid on the floor, the
broken pieces of the vase scattered around.
Nilapag ko mga papel sa lamesa bago sumulyap sa kanya. Gustong lumapit para
kausapin pero natatakot ako sa nararamdaman.
 "M-Mauuna na ako..." I murmured.
I looked at him, hesitant. Walang salitang lumabas sa bibig kaya nagdesisyon
akong lumabas na sana.
"Y-You're leaving me too?" His faint voice said.
I felt my heart ache, ayaw ko mang lingunin s'ya ay nakita ko ang sariling
naglalakad palapit sa kanya.
I kneeled infront of him and slowly hugged him.
He froze for a while but I felt him hugging me back tightly, his face buried on
my neck, his arms wrapped around me and his body began shaking.
I don't want to cry but I found myself crying too. Hindi ko alam kung bakit
pero nanghihina ako.
I suddenly realized world isn't really fair at all, sa buhay hindi pwedeng
masaya lang, sa buhay palaging may kasamang lungkot at trahedya. May mga bagay na
mabilis mong nakuha pero hindi mo alam na mabilis ding mawawala.

He cried on my shoulder and I didn't do anything but became

the shoulder he needed to pour himself out.
I realized he was there with me with my worst time yet I almost failed being
there when it's his worst.
That night, I became his shoulder to cry on like what he did to me when I
needed some when in need to cry.
Walang namutawing salita sa aming dalawa pero alam kong naging sapat ang yakap
na iyon para damayan s'ya sa sakit na nararamdaman n'ya.
Nakatulog s'ya sa bisig ko pagkatapos umiyak, sa sobrang pagod at sakit.
Mabigat ang puso ko habang pinagmamasdan s'yang nakapikit at mahigpit na nakayakap
sa akin.
Lando took him home, si Marco ang nagsundo sa akin sa opisina pauwi sa bahay sa
gabing iyon.
Miggy had to left early yesterday papunta sa probinsya nina Mommy, ang tunay
kong ina. Tita Asunta offered to take him first habang naiwan ako para mag-asikaso
ng sa huling araw ng intership at transfer papers sa unibersidad.
"Ipapasundo nalang kita bukas, Sera?" Marco asked while looking at me as I fix
my baggage.
"H'wag na," I shook my head. "Kaya ko naman tumungo sa terminal at mag-bus
papunta."
"Sorry," He sighed, sasamahan sana kita kaso kailangan ko muna i-train ang
bagong manager sa resto, alam mo na, busy si Mom doon sa pag-aasikaso ng mansyon
n'yo."
"Is it really big?" I asked curiously.
"Oo," He chuckled. "Baka malula ka, may iniwan sa'yong plantasyon ng tubo ang
Tita, pati na rin ang pamamahal sa firm n'ya."
My mouth parted.
"I-I have a firm?"
"Yes," He grinned.
"Si Mommy, kasama sina Tito ang namamahala sa firm na itinayo ni Tita, ng Mom
mo. Sakto nga at engineer ka, di ba? Pagkatapos mo mag-aral ay may kompanya ka
kaagad."
Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala roon at nag-iisip pa rin kahit umalis na s'ya.
Kinabukasan ay hindi ko alam kung matatawa ako o maiiyak sa pag-iyak ni Kikay
habang katabi ko.
"I-Iiwan mo na ako?" She sobbed.
"H-Hindi, ano ka ba!" I exclaimed.
She began crying again, ngumuso ako at niyakap s'ya.
"Babalik naman ako, Kay. Doon lang muna ako hanggang sa makatapos mag-aral,
tsaka si Miggy, kailangan ng magandang environment kaya doon muna kami." I
murmured.
Her eyes swelled more.
 "Kikay..."
"B-Basta babalik ka, huh?! Magpaparty tayo dito! Maghahanap pa ako ng foreigner
na jowa, dapat nanadito ka!"
"Oo naman..." I smiled at her.
"Promise?"
"Promise," I smiled at her.
May bumusina sa harapan namin, kumunot ang noo ko roon at napangiwi.
"Kikay, may pinatawag kang sasakyan?"
"Huh?" She dried her tears. "Grab 'yan," Aniya.
"Huh?" I asked, confused. "Ayos na sa aking traysikel lang, d'yan lang naman
ang terminal--"
"Hayaan mo na," She sniffed. "Libre ko na sa'yo, tsaka madami ang dala mo,
hindi kasya sa traysikel." Aniya.
"Hindi naman kailangan--"
"So? Kahit na, hayaan mo na ako." She sniffed. "O-Oh, s'ya, kunin mo na ang
gamit mo!"
I nodded, hindi pa sana papayag sa grab na gusto n'ya pero wala nang nagawa.

Ang mahal siguro 'nun! Maganda kasi ang sasakyan! Mas

mabuti sanang traysikel nalang.
Tumulong si Kikay sa pagkuha ng gamit, habang pinapasadahan ko ng tingin ang
aming munting bahay noon ay hindi ko maiwasang malungkot.
Nasaan kaya si Nanay? Hindi na s'ya muling nagpakita sa amin...ang alam ko lang
ay naroon s'ya daw s'ya sa kaibigang nagsusugal pero hindi ako sigurado.
I sighed, shook my head and went out.
Paglabas ko ay kinakausap ni Kikay ang driver mula sa may bintana at napanguso
ako.
"Kikay, ang gamit ko?" I asked.
Halos mapatalon si Kikay doon at napahawak sa dibdib.
"Ayon, nasa likod na ng sasakyan! Buti mabait itong driver mo, pogi pa!" She
giggled.
Natawa ako at napailing.
Mas gwapo pa rin 'yong...shit.
I shook my head again.
Lumapit si Kikay, kinikilig pa at kinurot ako. Napatalon ako at nanlaki ang
mata.
"W-What?" I gasped.
"Pogi! Naku, mamsh, foreigner bet ko pero mas pogi itong mestiso mong driver."
Hagikhik n'ya.
"Hindi ako interesado, Kikay." I chuckled.
"Asus, pogi nga! Kausapin mo, tapos kapag mabait at bet mo, pakarat ka na--"
"Kikay!" I screamed.
She laughed hysterically, paulit-ulit ko s'yang pinalo habang tumatawa s'ya at
yumakap sa akin.
"Joke lang, Serang mukhang pera, mana sa akin, ingat ka roon, huh?" Aniya.
I chuckled, hugging her back before kissing her cheek.
"Thank you, Kay. Ingat ka rin, I promise palagi akong tatawag." I smiled.
"Oh, s'ya, sige, pasok na! H'wag mo akong pinapaiyak!" She exclaimed.
I chuckled, niyakap s'yang muli at kumakaway na pumasok sa sasakyan.
I opened the car window when I got inside, kumakaway habang umaandar ang
sasakyan sa umiiyak na si Kikay.
I sighed when I felt my chest became heavier when I saw my friend crying.
Napailing ako at unti-unting inangat ang bintana ng kotse, I shook my head,
unti-unting kinuha ang seatbelt ko.
"You okay?"
"Yes, Kuya..." I murmured and suddenly stopped.
Marahas akong napaangat ng tingin at nanlaki ang mata nang makita kung sino ang
driver ko.
"Miranda!" I screamed at the top of my lungs.
"H-Huh?" He suddenly shifted his gaze at me, confused.
"Anong...bakit ikaw ang nandito?!"
"Driver?" He looks confused. "Grab?"
"What the hell..." I whispered. "H'wag mo nga akong niloloko!"
Oh my God, why is this man here?!
"I was just driving...bagong trabaho." Aniya at kinagat ang labi.
"H'wag mo akong niloloko!" I gasped. "Yong totoo? Sinusundan mo ako, ano?"
"No, ako nga 'yong na-book ng kaibigan mo--"
"Sasakalin kita," I hissed.
"My mother disowned me, wala na akong trabaho, kaya grab nalang--"
"Miranda!" I hissed.
"Okay, okay..." He sighed. "I followed you."
"I knew it!"
"But I really am working, suggestion ng mga Alcantara na mas mabuting grab para
malaki ang kita--"
"Di ba, ayaw na kita kausapin?"
"Trabaho lang naman--"
"Simula ngayon, may bayad na kapag kikitain mo ako." I hissed.
"H-Huh?" Gulong sabi n'ya.
Akala mo, huh... Your mother disowned you? Tignan natin kung may budget ka pang
kitain ako...
"May bayad kapag kakausapin mo ako, tignan lang natin kung kaya mo--"
"Magkano?" Hamon n'ya. "I'd spent every fucking penny I have to talk to you."
I smirked.
"Fifty thousand every time you see me,"
"I can do that." He smirked.
"One hundred thousand if you talk to me for one minute and one million every
damn time it exceeded that." I spatted.
He froze, I saw him tilting his head.
"Are you serious?" He looked at me unbelievably.
"Hindi mo kaya?" I chuckled. "Good, ibaba mo nalang ako sa terminala tapos
h'wag ka na papakita sa akin."
Nagulat ako nang tumigil ang sasakyan at nakita kong binuksan n'ya ang drawer.
I was confused when I saw him took his wallet, opened it and saw his cards inside.
I was confused when he put it in my hands and I stared at him.
"Anong gagawin ko rito?"
"That's all the money I got," He said. "That's enough to talk to you for a
year, I will work hard for the next years--"
"At anong gagawin ko sa wallet mo?"
"Sa'yo na 'yan," Aniya. My eyes widen.
"Huh?! Are you nuts?!"
"Kahit gumapang pa ako sa kahirapan, ayos lang basta makita ka." He winked.
"What the hell..." I whispered. "You're crazy."
"And to work for the next years," May pinindot s'yang kung ano sa itaas ng
kotse at kumunot ang noo ko roon.
"Ano 'yan?"
"Metro," Aniya at mas kumunot ang noo ko nang pagbukas palang nito ay may fifty
pesos kaagad.
"Anong fifty?! Hoy, kaunti palang inandar mo, ah!" Reklamo ko.
"Business minded dapat, mahal kasi ang fee mo--" Napasinghap s'ya nang hilahin
ko ang buhok n'ya at pinaghahampas ang braso n'ya.

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Kabanata 20
 Kabanata 20
"Ang ingay mo, Miranda." Ngiwi ko.
He chuckled a bit and glance at me.
"Why? I just miss talking to you and I bought you some dress...may bulaklak din
sa likod."
"What?" My brow raised, mabilis na napatingin sa likuran at nasapo ang mukha
nang makita ang paperbags at pumpon ng asul na rosas ang backseat.
"Akala ko ba naghihirap ka?" My brows raised, humalukipkip ako at tinitigan
s'ya.
"Uh, I'm not the poor earlier but you have my wallet now, so...I'm kinda
broke." He licked his lower lip.
"Oh, edi sa'yo na." Inilapag ko sa hita n'ya pabalik ang wallet. "I don't
really need that."
"No," He put the wallet back on my leg. "Take it, that's yours now."
"Seriously," I sighed. "Pwede ba? I told you I don't want dealing with you
again, bakit ba sunod ka ng sunod?"
He sighed, not answering me.
"Engineer..."
"Mahal kita, Serafine." He said, stopping me.
I cleared my throat, looking away. Kumuyom ang kamay ko at tumitig sa daan.
"Bakit mo ba ako pinapahirapan?" I sighed. "It's better to just leave, alam mo
namang walang patutunguhan?"
"I won't leave without a fight, Sera." He said and sighed. "I love you...even
if you don't like it, I will pursue you."
I shook my head and heave a deep sigh, laughing a bit.
"You're crazy," I puffed a breath. "Really, really crazy, Miranda."
"I may be...but I won't just stop here." He murmured.
"You are getting married, right? To Alice Tan? Bakit nandito ka pa? Why don't
you just please her and just leave me?"
I was confused when he suddenly stopped the car, sinulyapan ko s'ya at nagtaka
roon.
"Why did we stop?"
"I can't keep this from you anymore," He tilted his head. "Fuck, I don't want
you involved here but..."
"But what?" I asked. "Tell me, hindi 'yong nagtatago ka. Tutal naman magkasama
tayo ngayon, ano pa bang ine-expect mo? Kung sino man 'yang sinasabi mo
paniguradong alam nang nandito ka kasama ako."
His jaw clenched, I saw how his hand tightened on the steering wheel.
Humalukipkip ako at hinarap na s'ya. "So?"
"We are suspecting Alice Tan for Akisha's murder," He muttered and I froze.
Halos manuyo ang lalamunan ko at gulat na napaharap sa kanya.
"W-What?"
"We still can't prove it but I know, I have men tailing her and her moves. We
just lack evidences but I know she's involved."
"What...why? Kung ganoon, b-bakit nasa opisina n'yo s'ya? Bakit kayo
magpapakasal? Bakit n'ya gagawin 'yon?"
"My Mom likes her family," Kumunot ang noo n'ya. "And I can't tell this to her
either because she might slip, baka masira ang mga plano ko."
"Then...why? Why are you telling me this? H-Hindi ka ba natatakot na masira ang
plano mo?" I asked and I saw how his weak smile plastered. His jaw clenched,
lowering his head on the steering wheel.
"Kasi mahal na mahal kita," He whispered. "I will protect you...no matter
what."
My heart pounded painfully, suminghap ako at humigpit ang pagkakakuyom sa mga
kamay.
 "Is that why you said that?"
"I never wanted you to hear that," He muttered. "I just...want to stop her from
meddling with you. She keeps on asking me about us and you know I can't risk."
Hindi ako kaagad na nakaimik, I bit my lip to stop my tears from falling.
Sumulyap akong muli sa labas at inabala ang sarili ko sa pagtingin roon.
"L-Let's go, baka gabihin tayo." I murmured.
Naramdaman ko ang titig n'ya sa akin bago nagbuntong-hininga at tumango.
"Alright," He whispered.
Pagkarating namin sa probinsya ng tunay kong ina ay halos hindi pa ako
makapaniwala. I was in awe and in tears, sa pag-iisip na makakapunta ako rito, na
kahit wala na ang Mama ko ay makikilala ko pa rin s'ya.
"Ihahatid kita sa mansyon n'yo--"
"No," I immediately shook my head.
"Come on," He tried pursuading me. "Mag-gagabi na...it's dangerous at night,
baka--"
"Just let me do things my own way, Vioxx." I sighed and glance at him. "Gusto
kong pumunta roon na ako lang, ayokong kasama ka, hindi mo ba naiintindihan?"
"I understand," He nodded, licking his lip. "I just want you safe--"
"Susunduin ako ng sasakyan," I said and that stopped him. "Thank you for this
but I can go alone now."
He stared at me and sighed, nodding a bit and went out of the car. He helped me
fixing my things while waiting.
Habang nakasandal s'ya sa kotse at ako nama'y nakatitig sa maliwanag na langit
dahil sa mga bituin ay walang salitang namutawi sa akin.
"Sera?" Nilingon ko s'ya at nakita ko ang titig n'ya.
"Hmm?"
"Can...I see you again?" He asked and I immediatedly shook my head.
"No," I answered. "This ends here, Engineer."
"Please?" Nagitla ako nang hulihin n'ya ang kamay ko. I glance at him and
caught him caressing my hand, nangilid ang luha ko nang patakan n'ya iyon ng halik
at humigpit ang hawak n'ya.
"No," I murmured. "You may have a reason but I can't trust you again. I can't
trust you to not break me again."
"I love you," He whispered. My heart constricted when I caught a tear on his
cheek.
"M-Makakalimutan mo rin ako," I said and sniffed when I can't stop it anymore.
"B-Baby..." He whispered.
"I love you but I can't tolerate it anymore...I can't do it with you. Not when
I'm broken like this.." I whispered and sniffed.
I felt his hand on my cheek, mas suminghap ako nang haplusin n'ya ang pisngi ko
at hinawi ang luha ko.
"G-Give me a chance, please?" He whispered. I keep on shaking my head and he
slowly tugged my arm to hug me.
My lips quivered when I felt his warmth, I found myself breaking down while
tugging his shirt.
"S-Sorry...hindi ko alam, h-hindi ko kaya." I whispered.
He hugged me, ibinaon n'ya ako sa kanyang dibdib at patuloy na hinahaplos ang
ulo ko. He caressed my hair, slowly kissing it.
"I understand," He whispered. "I-I'm sorry, I will wait for you. But please
remember, I-I won't just stop here."
I sniffed, I keep on shaking my head as he caressed my hair.

"I-I'm sorry," He whispered.

Hindi ko alam kung paano ko napigil ang sarili ko sa pag-iyak, ilang minuto
akong nakatulala sa daan habang hinahayaan s'yang hawakan ang kamay ko.
I felt his every caress, naaawa ako sa kanya pero mas naaawa ako sa sarili ko.
Pagod na akong maging mahina, pagod na akong masaktan at kung ang pagmamahal na ito
ay ganoon, mas mabuting h'wag na.
The sound from an approaching car stopped me, napasulyap ako at kaagad na
napaayos ng tayo nang makita ang isang kulay puting sasakyan.
Dumungaw doon si Tita Asunta at kumaway sa akin.
I smiled, sumulyap s'ya sa tabi ko at tumikhim ako at mabilis na tinulak si
Vioxx. Napasandal s'ya sa sasakyan, gulat na nakatingin sa akin.
"W-Why?" He looks confused.
Hinarangan ko s'ya para hindi makita ng Tita.
"Sera? Tara na? Sino 'yang kasama mo?"
"W-Wala, Tita!" I exclaimed.
"Anong--"
"Tahimik!" Vioxx immediately shut his mouth, his eyes staring at me.
"Alright, bilisan mo, Sera. Inaantay kana ni Migs." Ani Tita sa akin.
"O-Opo!" Tikhim ko.
She glanced at us again, confused. Kita kong sinisilip pa ang kasama ko pero
pilit kong itinago ito.
"Sera--"
"Sshh," He nodded, kumurap pa s'ya at sumulyap akong muli sa sasakyan bago s'ya
binalingan.
"Thank you for this," I murmured.
"Welcome,"
"But I hope this is the last time," I said. "I wanted to start a new life here,
Engineer. I appreciate the help, lahat ng ginawa mo, I am thankful for you but I
wanted a fresh start."
He stared at me, his eyes glistened as he licked his lower lip.
"I...wanted a fresh start too." He whispered. "C-Can't I do it with you? Can't
I have a start with you?"
I sighed, my heart aching, I lowered my head as I shook my head.
"S-Sorry b-but..." my voice broke. "I don't like my new life to be with you."
He stared at me, I saw how his haw clenched as he stopped himself from crying.
Nanginig ang labi ko at pinagmasdan s'yang tila nawawala nanaman sa sarili.
"S-Sorry..." I whispered.
He just stared at me quietly, kinagat ko ang labi ko hanggang sa narinig ko ang
busina ng sasakyan.
"Sera, come on!" Tita exclaimed.
"Y-Yes po," I cleared my throat, unti-unting hinila ang kamay mula sa hawak ni
Vioxx at tumalikod.
My feet are shaking, as I walked towards the car, I heard him call my name.
"Sera!" I froze, slowly walking.
"Sera," He called. I then look at him, slowly with my heart aching.
"W-Why?"
"I-I love you..." He murmured.
I shook my head, smiling painfully. "I-I can't." I whispered.
Tumalikod akong muli at muli n'ya akong tinawag kaya hindi na ako lumingon.
"Serafine!" He then called and I felt his grip on my wrist, napasulyap ako sa
kanya at nakitang nanginginig din ang kanyang kamay.
"W-What? Di ba, sabi ko nang..."

"No,"
"Engineer, I made it clear--"
"It's not it," He murmured and I glance at him.
"What?" I asked.
"I...just..." He blushed.
"W-What?" Hinarap ko na s'ya.
"M-Maniningil lang sana ako ng pamasahe mo sa grab." He said.
"What the hell...Miranda!" I suddenly gasped.
His eyes widen, clearing his throat.
 "S-Sorry, uhm, kasi di ba, nag-iipon nga ako para may budget ako para makita
ka--"
"Sabi nang ayoko nga--"
"Gusto ko," He sighed. "Take my money, sa'yo na 'yan, I am sure it could last
for atleast a year. Kailangan ko lang mag-ipon sa mga susunod."
"Vioxx!" I said frustatedly then closed my eyes. "Magkano?"
"Huh?" He blinked. "Uhm, fare mo, Five hundred fourty-three."
I gasped again, hindi ko alam pero umatras ang luha ko at nasabunutan ang buhok
ko.
"Miranda naman..."
"N-Negosyo lang," He pouted.
Umiling ako, nilabas ang wallet n'ya at inabot sa kanya.
"Take it back," I said.
He took it, sumikip ang dibdib ko nang kunin n'ya ang wallet, naisip na susuko
na talaga s'ya.
I watched him as he took the exact fare from his wallet and gave it back.
"W-What?" I asked.
"S-Sa'yo na," I said.
"No..." Nang hindi ko tanggapin ang bigay n'ya ay umawang ang labi ko nang
ilagay n'ya ang wallet sa bag ko.
"Ayoko nga--"
"Bye!" He suddenly wave before I could even get him.
Nasapo ko ang noo ko.
"See you tomorrow!" He exclaimed and I groaned when he rode his car and left.
Hindi nga s'ya nagsisinungaling. The next day, he appeared again and again.
Even at my new university for the remaining semester.
It annoys me everytime because he is too persistent, kahit nabalita na sa TV
ang pagkawala n'ya bilang CEO ng kanilang firm ay hindi s'ya nagpatinag. Mas gumulo
pa ang buhay ko 'nung wala na s'yang ginagawa at halos tumambay na sa unibersidad
ko.
He befriended the staffs, the school admin and he even got a post as an
instructor because the faculty of engineering knows "The" Vioxx Ephraim Miranda.
And my new life has him all over me.
"Wala nang test paper?" I asked from my classmate just infront of me.
"Ay, sorry, wala na, kulang eh. Hingi ka nalang kay Engineer." She smiled.
Halos tumaas ang dugo ko, I glanced at the annoying engineer. Nakangisi pero
nang makita ako ay tumikhim at nag-iwas.
He fixed his glasses using his index finger, his jaw clenched a bit when he saw
me stood from my seat.
Ang magulong buhok n'ya ay nahulog sa kanyang noo, he lowered his head to
pretend he's busy.
Nakita ko pa ang iilang kaklase kong sumusulyap at kinakagat ang ballpen habang
nakasulyap sa pangit na engineer.
My forehead creased, raising my hand a bit. Nang tamaan ng kamay ko ang batok
ng kaklase kong babae ay nag-ingay kaagad s'ya.

"Ouch!" She exclaimed.

"Opps!" My eyes widen. "Sorry, hindi ko sinasadya." I smiled apologically.
Umiling nalang s'ya, umirap naman ako sa hangin at muling nag-sorry.
I glanced at him again and saw him hiding his smirk. Kumunot ang noo ko at
halos sipain ang desk n'ya.
"Hoy!" I exclaimed.
He stopped, natigilan ako sa nasabi at nanlaki ang mata, mabilis na sumulyap sa
likod at nakita ang gulat na mga kaklase.
Natauhan ako bigla at naalalang professor ko nga pala itong gurang na ito!
"Uh, I mean...hoy!" I suddenly jumped. "M-May ano...ipis!"
I exclaimed, gumulo ang mga kaklase ko, nagsitalunan sa mga upuan pati na rin
ang mga lalaki.
Nagsisigawan sila, napangiwi ako sa ginagawa at naguluhan din. Biglang nag-
ingay ang paa ni Vioxx at nang sulyapan ko s'ya ay nakalabas na ang isang paa sa
lamesa.
"It's dead," He suddenly said.
Napakurap ako.
"T-Talaga, Engineer?" My classmate asked.
"Yes," He nodded, glancing at me. Umirap ako.
"Go back to your seats," He said, nagsibalikan ang mga takot kong kaklase sa
upuan nila at takot pa.
"You're a hero, Engr. Thank you!" Nica said sweetly.
Seriously? Nagpapanggap lang iyan!
But atleast he saved your ass, Serafine!
"Okay, go back and continue answering." He glanced at me and raised his brow.
"Sasamahan ko lang si Miss Mendez na kumuha ng testpaper sa faculty."
My eyes widen, nang tumayo s'ya sa upuan ay halos mapatakbo ako pabalik sa
upuan ko.
"Uhm, hindi ba pwedeng ikaw nalang?" I asked.
Nakarinig ako ng singhapan, nagtatakang napalingon ako sa mga upuan at nakitang
naeeskandalo ang mga kaklase ko sa aking sagot.
Damn it?
"I-I mean po? Opo? Hindi po ba pwedeng ikaw nalang po, Engineer po?" I
emphasized.
He smirked, but then shook his head again.
"May kailangan din kasi akong kunin sa faculty, Miss. Para habang nagsasagot
kayo, magrerecord ako." Aniya.
I groaned quietly.
"O-Okay po." Tumikhim ako. His lip twitched, brushing his hair and nodded.
May kinausap s'ya sa telepono, may dumating na isang faculty teacher, mukhang
ka-edaran din n'ya at namumula pa pagpasok.
"Akong bahala, Engineer." She gave a sweet, flirty smile.
I raised my brow.
"Thanks, Miss Mercado." He smiled.
Halos magpuso ang mata ng guro, kumukunot pa ang noo ko kung hindi ko lang
napansin ang tabinging lakad ng pabibong-feeling gwapo na gurang na engineer.
It looks like he's hiding something on his feet, ganun s'ya maglakad hanggang
palabas kaya nagtaka ako.
Nang makalabas ay umakto s'yang may sinipa, kumunot ang noo ko at sinundan iyon
ng tingin.
"Ano 'yon?"
"Ipis," He said.
"Huh? I was joking, walang ipis, palusot ko lang 'yon."
"May ipis," Aniya, muling inayos ang kanyang salamin.
He was just wearing a formal navy blue longsleeve and black slacks, nakatupi pa
hanggang siko at bukas ang butones sa itaas.
"Wala nga--"
"Kapag sinabi ng mahal ko na may ipis, may ipis." He said and my mouth parted.
"W-What?"
"You said there was a cockroach and there is one,"
"You're crazy, Miranda..." I muttered.
"Don't blame me, love made me crazy--" I gasped and smacked his arm.
"Kanta iyan!" I groaned.
"Ganyan talaga, kapag nagmamahal, imagination mo ang limit."
He smiled, licking his lip again, natahimik ako nang makitang naglalakad
palapit ang nagma-mop na si Lando sa may floor namin.
"Seriously?" I whispered.
"Hi, Ma'am!" He grinned.
"Diyos ko..." I whimpered.
"Bukas saan naman tayo?" Nag-apir pa sila ni Vioxx.
 "Doon naman tayo sa tubuhan nila, mag-kakargador naman--" Dumaing si Vioxx nang
sapakin ko s'ya.
"What?" He groaned.
"Pwede ba?" Kumunot ang noo ko.
"Kailangan namin ng sideline ni Lando kasi mahirap na kami,"
Nahilot ko ang sentido ko.
"Wala na ngang pansweldo sa akin si Engineer kaya suma-sideline na rin ako." He
smiled.
"Hay, ewan!" Nahilot ko ang sentido ko.
I walked out, nag-usap pa sila saglit bago tumakbo si Vioxx at inakbayan ako. I
smacked his arm and gasped.
"Nasa school!" I exclaimed.
"So?" His brow raised, "Wala namang makakakita tsaka bayad ko 'tong araw na
'to."
"At sineryoso mo nga?" I sighed, removing his hand.
He grinned, nang makapasok sa faculty ay walang tao kaya humalukipkip ako.
"Sinadya mong kulang ang testpaper?" I snorted when I noticed a bunch of
testpapers on his desk.
"Hindi ah," He said cooly, pulling one test paper.
Inabot n'ya iyon sa akin at naglahad ako ng kamay para kunin pero bigla n'yang
itinaas.
I gasped loudly when I fell on his chest, nanlaki ang mata ko at tinulak ang
dibdib n'ya pero mabilis n'ya akong nahuli.
He encircled his hand on my waist, my eyes widen and I cursed loudly.
Sumubsob ako sa kanyang leeg at halos masapak na s'ya.
"Engineer!" I groaned.
Tumama ang likod ko sa pintuan nang maglakad s'ya. Nanlalaki pa ang mata nang
makita kung gaano kami kalapit sa isa't-isa.
My heart quickened, halos magdikit na ang ilong namin sa sobrang lapit n'ya.
"I missed it when you call me daddy," He whispered, my lips parted when he
planted a small kiss on my cheek.
"You're not my Papa dè asukal anymore," I whispered.
"What am I, then?" I almost laughed when I saw his curious face, hindi ka
tatahimik kakakulit sa akin, huh?
"You know what are you?" I whispered back, remembering what I read in a meme
from the internet.
"What?" He said huskily, I slowly put my hand on his waist as I pretended to be
caressing it slowly.
"Minatamis na gurang," I whispered and pinched his waist until he curse.

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Kabanata 21

Nine chapters to go!

The no. of COVID-19 cases is quite alarming so please stay safe everyone!
Proper hygiene is a must!
Basa muna kayo kay Vioxx habang suspended! Mwuah!
xxx
Kabanata 21
"Malapit na ang graduation mo, when you graduate, do you have plans, hija?"
Tita Asunta asked.
Napaisip ako, inayos ko ang plato ni Miggy at kinuha ang ulam para lagyan s'ya
bago naupo sa hapag.
"Hmm, no pa po but I plan to atleast start studying for my Mama's firm?" I
smiled.
"That's a good thing to do, Sera." Aniya. "The transfer of your inheritance
will take a bit time but I think pagkatapos ng board exam mo, tapos na."
Hindi ako sumagot, ngumiti ako kay Migs na nakatitig lang sa akin.
"How's your stay here, Migs? Enjoying the view?" I asked.
He nodded and smiled, his eyes shifted from me to Tita Asunta.
"Opo, salamat po, Ate, Tita...hindi n'yo po ako sinusukuan." My heart swelled,
I saw Tita smiled at him.
"Para sa'yo, Migs." I smiled at him. "Ate and Tita only wants what's best for
you. Kapag kaya mo na, itutuloy mo ang pag-aaral mo, okay?"
"Opo, Ate." He smiled, then suddenly stopped. "Ate...si nanay po hindi talaga
bibisita?"
I froze, nag-alangan akong sabihin pero gusto kong mapanatag ang loob n'ya.
"Kina-kumusta ka naman n'ya, Migs, malay mo kapag hindi na s'ya busy ay
bisitahim tayo rito." I said softly.
He smiled and nodded.
Nagkatinginan kami ni Tita at nakita ko ang lungkot sa mata n'ya.
The truth is, Nanay called once to ask for money. Wala nga lang akong naibigay
sa kanya dahil nag-aadjust pa ako at wala pa talagang nakuhang pera, I told her
that but she only told me I was lying.
I tried explaining but she seems mad, sinabi ko ring bisitahin si Miggy pero sa
galit n'ya ay hindi na n'ya ako pinansin at pinatayan ng telepono. I tried reaching
out for her but no, she kept on rejecting my calls.
I sighed when my head ache, isinara ko ang librong hawak ko, binuksan ang
laptop at sumandal sa upuan. It was a bit late but I stayed in the library to
study, tapos na rin naman ang finals but I have to study in advance for the
upcoming board exam.
Mamaya pa naman magsasara ang library.
I still have to finish some requirements to graduate, pinapagawa pa kami ng
powerpoint para sa mga projects at intership sites na pinuntahan namin.
I was in the hidden part of the library, para hindi maistorbo. Alas-syete na at
madilim na ang langit pero nandito pa rin ako.
Habang nakatulala at nasa tapat ng laptop ko ay naalala ko si Tatay. He would
be proud at me for sure, because I will finally graduate. Masaya sana kung s'ya ang
magsasabit sa akin ng medalya pero wala na.
I sighed, naramdaman ko ang pagbigat ng puso ko.
"Hey," I almost jumped when I heard a voice, sa paglingon ay nanlaki ang mata
ko nang makita ang Engineer.
I rolled my eyes when I saw him carrying three pieces of roses and take-outs.
"Kumain ka na?" Mabilis s'yang naupo sa tabi ko.
"Anong ginagawa mo dito?" I asked him curiously, "Wala kang pasok?"
"Tapos na," Aniya at inilapag sa harapan ko ang pagkain.

"What's that?"
"Foods, kumain ka na, kanina ka pa dito, 'di ba?" He asked.
Sa halip na sumagot ay binalingan ko ang dala n'ya.
"At paano mo napasok 'yan? Is foods even allowed here?" I asked.
"Ako pa ba?" He smiled sheepishly, tucking my hair behind my ear.
My heart thumped when our eyes met, his deep brown eyes gazed at me. From my
ear his hands fell on my cheek down my jaw.
Nanatili akong nakatitig sa kanya habang and hinlalaki ay marahang humaplos sa
labi ko.
My mouth parted, I saw how his eyes darkened more, licking his lower lip.
He moved his face closer, my heart hammered inside my chest. He tilted his head
bit before he could even kiss me, I looked away immediately.
Halos magwala ang puso ko nang tumama sa aking pisngi ang kanyang labi. He
sighed, kumuyom ang kamay ko nang unti-unting sumubsob s'ya sa balikat ko.
His hands are wrapped behind my back, bumilis ang paghinga ko sa bulong n'ya.
"I missed you," He whispered.
 Hindi ako umimik.
"You should eat," He suddenly said and moved away, nag-iwas s'ya at inayos ang
pagkaing binili n'ya sa harapan ko.
I remained looking at him quietly and he seems persistent to do what he has to.
Sa harapan ko ay may tatlong rosas na kaagad kong kinuha at hinaplos.
"Hindi ba tayo pagalitan?" I asked him.
"Saan?" He asked, opening the foods.
"It's a library and we're eating?" I stared at him.
"We're hidden," Aniya. "No cameras here, si Lando naman nagbabantay doon sa
labas, nagke-kwentuhan pa sila 'nung librarian."
I pouted, nodding slowly.
I watched him fixed the food, nang ilahad n'ya ang pagkain ay inabot ko iyon.
"Thank you," I whispered. "Ikaw? Kumain ka na?" I asked him.
"Hmm, I'm good." He smiled.
I nodded, nag-umpisa na akong kumain habang s'ya ay inilalabas ang laptop n'ya.
He was encoding the grades from the other blocks.
"How's my grades?" I suddenly asked out of curiousity.
He glanced at me, licking his lower lip.
"Great," He chuckled. "You're always great at everything, baby."
Nanliit ang mata ko, tinusok ang karne at kinain.
"Weh? Baka may magic iyan?" I asked.
"No, I love you but I'm a fair person." He had this small smile.
My heart thumped, lumunok ako at kinagat ang labi ko.
"I...remembered when you forced me to review on your subject. Lahat ng tinanong
mo lumabas sa exam." I raised my brow.
"Hmm, yeah, because we reviewed it."
"Madaya..." Tinusok ko ang pisngi n'ya. "Sinadya mong lumabas? Gustong-gusto mo
akong pumasa kasi patay na patay ka sa'kin?"
He stopped, nakita ko ang pamumula ng pisngi n'ya at nangingisi na ako.
"Tama ako?"
"Yeah...give that--"
"Given what?" My lip twitched.
"You know," His lips protruded again. "Lalabas talaga sa exam kasi 'yon ang
tinuro ko--"

"Given what, muna? Huh, engineer?" I said.

"Serafine," He stared at me, his face flushing and I laughed.
"Oh, come on, nag-ba-blush ka, Sir?" I hissed, amused.
His face flustered more, nang akmang hahawakan ko ang pisngi n'ya ay hinuli
n'ya ang kamay ko. I gasped when he pulled my hand up to his shoulder.
Sa gulat ay nahatak n'ya ako at halos magdikit na ang mukha namin.
My eyes widen, his brown eyes glistened more at our faces inches away from each
other.
"Okay, given that, patay na patay. Whatever your term is." He said slowly, his
eyes piercing me.
"I love you, okay? And I reviewed you because that's what I taught you all in
class at lumabas kasi nga tinuro ko." Depensa n'ya.
"Alright," I shrugged, my smile almost trembled because of our closeness.
He pulled me more, my breath hitched when his lips touched the tip of my nose.
"I wanna ask you for a date tonight," He whispered.
Napalunok ako.
"A-Ayaw kong makipagdate sa minatamis na gurang." Bulong kong kinakabahan at
nang mapaawang ang labi n'ya sa gulat ay mabilis akong lumayo at kumurap-kurap,
nag-iinit ang pisngi.
He eyed me seriously, para mukhang inosente ay nagy-iwas lang ako ng tingin.
Muling kumain at sumulyap bago ngumiti.
"Kain?" I offered.
 I spent time studying again, nang tamarin ay muli kong ginawa ang powerpoint ko
hanggang sa mas tinamad na.
I yawned, idinantay mo ang ulo ko sa lamesa at humarap kay Engineer na busy pa
rin kakagawa sa mga grades.
I pouted while staring at him.
I missed him, I really do but this isn't the right time to love again, ayaw ko,
pagkatapos ng lahat ay parang hindi ko na ata kayang sumugal ulit sa pag-ibig.
I want to be an Engineer, I want to manage my own firm, I want to make Miggy
proud, I wanted him to have a better future.
Wala nang mas importante sa akin kung hindi ang kapatid ko, para sa kanya kaya
ako lumalaban sa kinabukasan ko.
"Titig pa, kiss kita d'yan." He smirked then slowly looked at me.
"F-Feeling!" Hinampas ko ang balikat n'ya at natawa s'ya at pinagmasdan ako.
"What is it? Hmm? You wanna go home?" Aniya at bahagya akong napapikit nang
abutin n'ya ang buhok ko at marahang haplusin.
"No..." I yawned. "I was just a bit sleepy." I murmured.
"Then sleep." Aniya.
"Can you wake me up after thirty minutes? I have to finish my powerpoint."
Marahang sabi ko.
"Alright, sleep." Aniya. "I'll check on your report too while your asleep."
"Hmm? May ginagawa ka, di ba? Kaya ko naman--"
"Sshh, sleep. I'm done with this, final revisions nalang ang kailangan dito, di
ba? I'll take care of it." Aniya.
I nodded weakly, my eyes started feeling heavy.
His phone rang, napasulyap ako roon at natigilan nang makita ang pangalan.
Engr. Tan calling...
Nagkatinginan kami at nakita ko ang pag-awang ng labi para magsalita.
I sighed, closed my eyes tightly and shifted my head from his direction to the
wall beside me.

The next days are harder, while reviewing, I have to start

claiming my inheritances, meaning I have to go in our firm and get introduce.
Inaasikaso ko pa si Miggy at ang plantasyon na naiwan ni Mama sa akin. Tita was
helping me out but she has things to do too so I have to learn on my own.
I had friends here, hindi kagaya ng pagkakaibigan ko noon, mas nag-lie-low ako,
siguro ay natuto sa mga pagkakamali ko noon.
I started having doubts in giving someone my trust, afraid of getting attached
and they'll leave you in the end.
"I like you, Sera." Tulala ako sa gitna ng quadrangle habang nakatitig sa
kaklase kong naroon sa harapan ko.
Habang nag-aasikaso kami ng clearance sa graduation ay nagulat ako nang hilahin
ako ng mga kaklase at natagpuang may inihandang surpresa para sa akin.
It was Christian Alfonso, the dean's gradson. Halos ka-edad ko lang din at
nagtatrabaho na. Nakilala ko lamang noong unang araw ng enrollment sa huling
semester at nagparamdam na ng pagkagusto.
I have nothing against it, knowing that he isn't that serious but...now, I
don't think he isn't serious at all.
"I..." Hindi ko alam ang sasabihin.
Medyo gulat pa sa surpresa. He bought flowers and balloons, nag-gigitara pa ang
iilang estudyante roon para sa amin.
"Sagutin mo na si Sir, Sera!" Tilian nila.
"Thank you," I murmured. "N-Nakakagulat naman po, Sir. Hindi naman
kailangang--"
"It Chris for you, Sera, right? I aint working here and don't tell me not to
surprise you because woman like you deserves things like this."
Mas nagtilian sila, I was overwhelmed, alright, but definitely not prepare to
commit again.
 "Chris..." I murmured, mahigpit ang hawak sa bulaklak na bigay n'ya.
"Hmm?" He smiled.
"I'm still not ready to commit--"
"I know, I just want a chance with you." He touched my hand.
Bumaba ang tingin ko roon sa haplos n'ya at mas bumilis ang kabog ng puso sa
kaba.
Mas nagtilian sila, umangat ang tingin ko mula kay Christian papumta sa crowd
at kaagad na nagsalubong ang mata namin ni Vioxx.
My heart thumped.
He looks serious, his dark eyes staring at the man beside me then to our hands.
I saw how his jaw clenched.
"Sana naman hayaan mo akong ilabas ka para kumain?" He smiled, doon nawala ang
tingin ko kay Vioxx dahil sa tilian.
"Go, Sera! Ang haba ng hair mo!" They cheered happily.
"U-Uhm, okay." I smiled at him.
Sa muling pagsulyap ko sa pwesto ni Vioxx ay wala na s'ya roon at si Lando na
nagma-mop sa may chapel ay pinakitaan ako ng puso sa mga kamay na unti-unting
nahati sa gitna.
Kagaya ng mga nakaraang araw ay mas naging abala dahil mas nalalapit na ang
graduation. We had in-house reviews for our coming board exam kaya kailangan
talagang mag-review.
Halos sa library na nga ako tumira pero sa halip na mag-aral sa oras na 'to ay
nakatitig ako sa phone ko at binabasa ang balita tungkol sa pagkakahuli kay Alice
Tan at sa kanyang pamilya bilang mastermind sa pagpatay kay Akisha.
So...it's really true.
I felt the relief inside my chest when I read about the people included in the
crime and my Tatay isn't included. It was clearly stated here they paid him to
drive and didn't tell him anything about what they'll do, how he was blackmailed to
hide what he saw, na inosente ito sa pagpatay.

Kalapit doon ay ang interview sa mga Miranda, ang interview

kay Vioxx habang nakasuot ng pormal na suit para sa press-conference.
It happened yesterday, kaya pala walang paramdam.
Mabilis kong naibaba ang phone ko sa gulat nang lumitaw bigla ang nasa phone
lang kaninang si Vioxx.
My eyes widen, mabilis na nag-exit sa article at pinagmasdan s'yang naglalapag
ng ice coffee at donut sa tapat ko.
"N-Nandito ka? Bakit? Di ba nasa Manila ka?" I suddenly asked.
"Can't I get atleast a hi?" Pagod n'yang sabi at naupo sa tabi ko.
I blinked, pinagmasdan s'yang pagod na sumandal sa kanyang upuan.
"A-Ayos ka lang?"
"Hmm, yeah. Just a bit tired." He murmured.
"B-Bakit ka pa pumunta dito?"
"I'm sorry, I really didn't know you won't like to see me again." He whispered
and closed his eyes.
"No!" I exclaimed. "I mean...wala nang klase? Busy ka sa firm n'yo at alam kong
pagod ka."
"I don't work in that firm anymore, I just had to do that conference and fix
some things. I drove hours to see you but guess I am the only one who likes it." He
murmured.
"Vioxx..." I whispered.
"Studying again?" Umayos s'ya ng upo at sumulyap sa mga libro sa harapan ko.
"Hmm," I nodded. "Alam mo, magpahinga ka na. Pagod ka na."
He sighed, natigilan ako nang abutin n'ya ang kamay ko at marahang hinaplos
iyon ng daliri n'ya.
"Can I...have a hug?" He suddenly whispered.
"H-Huh?"
 "I'm...just so tired, tired of everything." He murmured.
I gasped, bumigat ang puso ko at marahang niyakap s'ya. He buried his face on
my neck, nagwawala ang puso ko habang nakasiksik s'ya sa akin at malalim na
humihinga.
"What's the matter?" I asked.
"I just want you to hold me." He whispered and hugged me tightly. "K-Kahit
saglit lang."
My heart swelled, hinayaan ko s'yang yakapin ako hanggang sa kumalma s'ya at
muli nanamang naging masaya na parang walang nangyari at nagbibiro nanaman.
"Review the reviewers I gave you last time, naka-summarize sa table na 'yon
'yong importanteng terms. That's what was given last boards and they might just
recycle questions."
I nodded, habang nagtatanong s'ya sa inaral ko habang nagrereview ako ay
mabilis akong sumasagot.
"Answer this," Ibinigay n'ya sa akin ang inihanda n'yang questionnaire.
"Thanks," I smiled, tumungo ako para sagutan ang sample questions n'ya.
Bumagsak ang nakalugay kong buhok sa pisngi ko pero hindi ko iyon pinansin at
hinawi lang pero muling bumabagsak.
I sighed, sinakop ko ang buhok para alisin pero kaagad na natigilan nang
maramdaman si Vioxx sa likod ko.
I glanced at him but he immediately touched my head and combed my hair slowly
with his fingers.
I blinked, naramdaman ko ang paghaplos n'ya sa buhok ko at pag-angat sa ere. He
tied my hair in a ponytail and my eyes widen more.
"I want a chance too, Serafine..." He suddenly said on my ear that my heart
almost stopped.

"A-Anong chance? P-Para saan?"

"You gave that boy his chance then give me my chance too." Reklamo n'ya.
"Please, be fair to me, baby. I want a chance."
"Congratulations, Sera!" Malaki ang ngiti at naluluha pa ako nang matapos ang
graduation at suot-suot ko ang toga na matagal ko nang pinangarap na maisuot.
Tita Asunta is here, together with Miggy and Marco. Nakangiti si Marco sa akin
habang inilalahad ang braso.
I chuckled and hugged my cousin, nakita ko naman ang pagkuha ng litrato sa amin
ni Tita, pareho pa kaming naka-toga.
I smiled at the camera, lifting my medal to show it.
"I'm so proud of the two of you! Marco, anak, Sera..." She smiled.
Her eyes are almost moist with her tears. I hugged her, niyakap n'ya ako
pabalik ng mahigpit.
"Maraming salamat, Tita..." I whispered.
"Anything for you, Sera. Your mother and father must ne very proud of you." She
whispered.
Natigil lang kami sa pagyayakapan nang may humila sa toga ko at sa paglingon ay
kaagad akong nanlambot ng makita si Miggy na nakangiti at paiyak na.
"Migs..." I immediately kneeled on the floor to cupped his face. "Graduate na
ang ate."
"P-Proud po ako sa'yo, Ate." My eyes swelled when I heard him said that.
Napasinghap ako at mabilis na niyakap ang kapatid ko. I found myself crying
when I heard him cry, mahigpit ang yakap ko sa kapatid ko bago lumayo at hinawakan
ang pisngi n'ya.
"Nagtapos ako dahil sa'yo, Migs." I smiled at him. "Promise ni Ate na hinding-
hindi kita pababayaan."
"I love you, Ate. Maraming salamat kasi hindi mo ako sinukuan." He sobbed.
I bit my lip, mabilis na hinubad ang medalya ko at isinuot ng paunti-unti sa
kapatid kong mukhang namangha pa sa ginawa ko.
"This medal is for you, Migs. I know and believe that someday, ikaw naman ang
pupunta sa entablado." I caressed his cheek.
"P-Proud ako sa'yo, Ate. Si Tatay din po." I nodded and kissed him repeatedly
on his cheek.
Nang tawagin kami ni Tita ay tumayo ako at hinawakan sa kamay si Miggy. Binati
ko ang iilang mga kaklaseng nasalubong.
"Congrats..." I froze when I saw a familiar man walking towards me.
Vioxx Ephraim Miranda looks dashing on his black longsleeves and brown pants.
Hawak n'ya ang isang pumpon ng pulang rosas at naglakad papunta sa akin.
I heard commotion somewhere, seeing the professor walking towards me.
"Hi, Kuya!" Narinig ko ang boses ni Migs.
"Hi, Migs!" He smirked and offered his hand. "Apir kay Kuya!"
I smiled when I saw my jolly brother lifting his hand to accept Vioxx's hand.
"Congrats," Nag-angat ng tingin ito pabalik sa akin at ngumiti. "For you,"
My heart thumped, nahuli ko pa ang gulat na singhapan ng mga tao roon.
"Y-You're my professor!" I hissed quietly, eyeing him sharply.
He chuckled, inabot ang kamay ko para ilagay doon ang bulaklak.
"Well, baby, not anymore." He smirked.
Nag-init ang pisngi ko, nakagat ang labi nang ngumisi si Vioxx.

"Ate, doon muna ako kay Kuya Marco," Miggy suddenly said
and let go of my hand.
"Migs--"
"Bye, Te! Go, Kuya!" He cheered and ran.
"Shit..." I cursed.
"Bad mouth we got there, hmm..." He caught my waist.
Nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita ang iba pang faculty members na nakatingin sa
akin.
"Crush na crush ka ni engineer, Miss Mendez!" Ani ng isang professor.
My cheeks heated, tinulak ko si Vioxx pero mas humapit s'ya sa baywang ko.
"Well, I can make a move now?" He smiled foolishly.
Nag-asaran pa sila roon at nahihiya naman ako dahil sa kakulitan ni Vioxx.
Yakap ko ang bulaklak na bigay n'ya ay inaya n'ya ako sa labas ng hall na
pinagdausan ng graduation para makapag-usap.
Pinagbigyan ko s'ya lalo na at hindi naman s'ya naging makulit sa akin habang
nasa huling semester.
"What?" I was still smiling when we went to the side where no crowd was
present.
The sun is setting, halos magkulay kahel na ang langit. Nearby, I saw friends
taking pictures and families get together.
Kung nandito kaya ang Tatay, magiging masaya kaya s'ya?
"Sera..."
"Hmm?" I stared at him.
He looks confused and lost. His eyes were unsteady. Titingin s'ya sa akin at
kapag nagsasalubong ang mata namin ay iiwas s'ya at huhugot ng hininga.
"Hey," I called his attention.
He closed his eyes again.
"Vioxx..." I called.
Mas niyakap ko ang bulaklak at hinawakan ang braso n'ya.
"Calm down, what is it?" I asked curiously.
He licked his lip, his fingers brushed his hair frustratedly before sighing and
opening his eyes.
"You know I love you, right?" He suddenly blurted out.
My heart quickened, nanlaki ang mata ko nang hawakan n'ya ang magkabilang
pisngi ko at pinakatitigan ako.
"Hmm? Bakit?"
He stared at me.
"I love you, Sera." He breathe. "And I just want to say I am so proud of you,
so proud. I admire you for your courage, for not losing hope and the love you have
for your family." He said.
I just stared at him and saw sincerity on his eyes.
"I love you, Sera. I do." He whispered. "And it frustrates me everytime I wake
up and I don't have you."
Kumuyom ang kamay ko at napatitig.
"Vioxx..."
"I want to prove to you my love," He whispered.
"I know I am asking to much but...but please, baby, let's get married."
I gasped, mas bumilis ang kalabog ng puso ko.
"What..." I shook my head. "Y-You know I still can't trust you--"
"I will do everything," He whispered, his now bloodshot eyes stared at me.
"I know wala akong napapatunayan sa'yo, I am no one, my family disowned me, I
have nothing but I am building my own. I-I got a small company, it isn't that big
but I can assure you it will be. I-I will do my best to provide for us--"

"Hindi mo ako naiintindihan eh," I gasped. "Alam mo naman

ang nangyari sa atin, di ba? I just can't."
"Please..." He begged.
My eyes widen when he took a velvet box from his pocket and showed it to me.
He opened it and showed me the diamond ring.
"Please," He held my other hand tightly. "G-Give me a chance."
Hindi ako nakasagot, tulala pa, lalo na nang lumuhod s'ya sa harapan ko.
"Vioxx..." I shook my head repeatedly.
"I have nothing but...I will work hard to give you everything."
My tears fell.
Malakas ang kabog ng puso ko sa magkahalong sakit at takot sa sinabi n'ya.
"Vioxx," I whispered.
"P-Please?" His tears fell. "I-I can do everything if you're beside me."
I shook my head and removed my tears harshly.
"I-I'm sorry..." I murmured and I saw how his shoulders fell.
"I-I am not ready for this, I am not ready for you." I shook my head. "M-Marami
pa akong pangarap at a-ayokong...ayokong masira ulit ang mga 'yon dahil sa'yo."
"A-Am I not included in your dreams?"
I sobbed, humakbang ako paatras sa kanya at mabilis na umiling.
"S-Sorry..." I whispered. "I-I just...I just don't think I need you in this
life."
His tears fell more, nang ibaba n'ya ang ulo n'ya ay mabilis akong naglakad
palayo habang hinahawi ang mga luha.
I'm sorry... I'm so sorry, Rai.
Kinalma ko ang sarili at pumunta sa banyo para mag-ayos ng sarili, sa paglabas
ko ng hall muli ay mabilis ang lakad ko para pumunta sana kina Tita nang mabilis
akong nahila nang kung sino at nagulat nang makitang si Christian iyon.
Hindi kaagad ako nakapagsalita nang makitang naroon ang iilang mga kaibigan
n'ya, miski ang dean ay naroon at binati ako.
"You know you like Serafine, Mom." He said and smiled.
Nang ngumiti sa akin ang dean ay wala akong nagawa kung hindi ang ngumiti kahit
gusto ko nang umalis.
Nagpasalamat ako sa lahat ng pagbati, nag-aalangan man at gusto nang umalis ay
hindi ako makapagsalita sa hiya.
Tsaka lang ako nagkalakas ng loob ay noong umalis na ang dean at naiwan kaming
dalawa ni Christian.
"Congrats, Sera." He smiled and offered me flowers.
Nakita kong napasulyap s'ya sa hawak kong bulaklak pero hindi nagsalita.
"Salamat," I smiled and accepted it. "Uhm, ano, kailangan ko na kasing--"
Halos mapaatras ako nang bigla n'yang i-angat ang baba ko at pinatakan ako ng
halik.
 Sa gulat ay natulak ko s'ya.
"W-What are you doing?" I gasped.
"Sorry, your lips are just irresistible." He said.
Magsasalita pa sana ako nang makita ko sa may hindi kalayuan ang nakatinging si
Vioxx.
My heart hammered again inside my chest, nang magsalubong ang mata namin ay
nakita ko ang pag-iwas n'ya ng tingin bago namulsa at naglakad paalis.
"Aalis na ako--" Naglakad ako pero hinawakan akong muli ni Christian kaya
napatingin ako sa kanya.
"Don't you like it? I like you, Sera. Kung ako sa'yo, sagutin mo na ako--"
"Don't kiss me again, you understand?" I spatted and I saw him stopped. "I
respect you, Christian so, I am asking you to respect me and my decisions too."
I saw his mouth parted.
"I-I'm sorry, I just got carried away--"
Umiling ako at mabilis umalis. Mabilis kong hinubad ang toga, habang naglalakad
palabas ay hindi ako magkamayaw sa paglingon para mahanap si Vioxx pero wala s'ya.
Nakita ko si Lando sa may sasakyan namin kaya mabilis akong naglakad doon.
"Hi, Ma'am! Congrats!" He smiled brightly when he saw me.
"Thanks," I smiled and looked around. "Uhm, 'yong boss mo?"
"Si engineer?" Aniya at mabilis akong tumango roon. "Nandyan s'ya, di ba?
Pasabi naman mag-usap kami saglit."
"Ay, sorry, Ma'am. Kakaalis lang ni Engineer." He smiled.
"H-Huh? Saan?" Humigpit ang hawak ko sa bulaklak.
"Babalik pong Manila,"
"May sinabi ba kung kailan babalik?" I asked and he shook his head and
shrugged.
"Walang sinabi, Ma'am."
"Alright, salamat, maghihintay nalang ako." I whispered and smiled, staring at
the sunset, the sky slowly turning bright orange, like fire dancing in the dark
night.
I waited...but I didn't know it'll be the last time I'll see him.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 22

Stay safe, Archers! Basa muna kayo habang nasa bahay.

Enjoy!
xxx
Kabanata 22
It's tiring and painful. There are a lot of challenges in life, it can either
break you or make you. But one thing is certain, some lessons can be learned the
hard way.
I can't change the past but I certainly can change now and my future. It's up
to me, my life would be up to me now and how I choose to live it.
"Hello, Ma..." A small smile left my lips as I sata infront of my real mother's
tomb.
Sa gilid ng kanyang lapida ay ang bulaklak na ibinigay ko sa kanya noong
nakaraang araw.
I lit two white candles, inilagay ko rin ang bagong mga bulaklak at hinaplos
ito.
"Pasensya na, Ma..." I whispered. "Hindi kita mabibisita kaagad pagkatapos
nito, I have a lot to do right now. May bagong project po ako."
I smiled sweetly.
"As usual, I am doing a lot of work pero kinakaya ko naman, Ma. Si Miggy, ayon,
maayos ang lagay." I said.
"Iiwan ko po muna kay Tita Asunta si Migs ngayon dahil may importante akong
kliyenteng kikitain. Ba-byahe rin po muna ako doon sa dati naming bahay nina Tatay,
para sa trabaho at para na rin bisitahin ang puntod n'ya." I smiled.

"I love you, Ma. I promise to always smile and never give up no matter what
challenge is given to me. Kahit mahirap kakayanin ko para sa sarili ko at sa
kapatid ko. I wish and pray Tatay and you will guide us both. Sana po matulungan
n'yo kaming maging maayos ang buhay at maging successful." I whispered.
I smiled, touched her tomb again and uttered a brief prayer for her before
bidding my goodbye.
Sa pag-uwi ko sa bahay namin ay naabutan ko si Miggy sa tapat ng piano at may
bagong pyesta nanamanv kinakabisa.
I smiled when I saw his teacher, tumango ito sa pagbati sa akin.
"Engineer Flores," He greeted.
I smiled, nodding.
"It's Mendez." I said softly.
Nakita kong nagulat s'ya pero napatango.
"Oh, you were known to be a Flores, I didn't know you have a different
surname?" Aniya at tumayo para batiin ako.
"Hmm, they are just used to it. My family in the career path are the Flores,
kaya 'nung nagtrabaho na rin ako, ganoon ang tawag sa akin. Well, I corrected them
but nakasanayan siguro nila kaya hinayaan ko na." I smiled.
"I see," He offered his hand. "Nice meeting you again, Engineer. It's my second
time seeing you since I began teaching Miggy."
"I've been busy," I smiled and accepted his hand for a shake. "How's my
brother?"
Lumingon ako sa kapatid kong nakasulyap na sa akin ng seryoso.
"He's doing great," Aniya. "Uhm, busy ka ba mamaya?"
Hindi ko s'ya sinagot at ngumisi ako sa kapatid kong halos nanliliit na ang
mata sa akin.
I chuckled when his sharp eyes shifted from me to his teacher behind me asking
me for time.
"Hi, Migs!" I cheered, sitting in his long chair and kissing his cheeks.
"H'wag mong pansinin, Ate." Pasimpleng sinabi n'ya nang hagkan ko s'ya.
"What? Why?" I blinked.
"You and your boys," Ngiwi n'ya at umawang ang labi ko at natawa.
"Engineer?"

"Oh, hmm?" Baling ko sa guro na nahihiyang napahawak sa

kanyang batok. "Uh, I just wanna ask if I can ask you to dine?"
"For?" I cocked my head.
"Uhm," He licked his lip. "Just...Just eat? We can bring Miggy if you like--"
"I'm not interested, Sir." Biglang sabi ni Migs at ngumuso at bumalik ang
tingin sa piano.
Pasimple kong kinurot ang baywang n'ya at napasinghap s'ya.
"Ate!" He hissed.
"Oh, well, ikaw nalang?" Baling ni Mr. Roque sa akin.
"I'm sorry but I am a bit busy," I smiled at him kindly. "I have to go for a
project later, and I really don't dine that much if it isn't for business."
Nakita kong umawang ang labi n'ya roon.
"Ganun ba?" He sighed, tila nalugi.
"I apologized, Mr. Roque." Tumayo ako at ginulo ang buhok ng kapatid kong
nagreklamo nanaman.
"Ate..." He called.
"You can continue your lesson," Bumaling ako sa kapatid ko. "Migs, I'll just
fix my baggage."
"Alright," His dark eyes stared at me. "Kuya Marco will take you there?"
"Yes," I kissed his forehead. "Balikan kita mamaya,"
 I said, shifting my gaze at his teacher and nodded formally before turning my
back and went up to my room to fix my things.
Mismong sa pag-aayos ko ng bagahe ay hindi pa ako tuloy-tuloy, sunod-sunod ang
tawag mula sa secretary ko ang ang myembro ng team.
"Bukas pa po kami tutuloy roon, Engineer." Jade, my secretary said.
"Alright, my driver will bring you there with the team. Mauuna na ako kasi
kailangan kong kitaan ang kliyente ko bukas."
"Sige, Ma'am." Aniya. "Saan po pala kami mag-s-stay?"
"Well, for a while, the client booked you all rooms in Casa Amara." I said.
"Ikaw, Ma'am?"
"I have a house there, don't worry about me."
Kaunting usap pa ay natapos din kami, habang nag-aayos ako ay napagod ako at
nakatulog.
Nagising lang ako sa tunog ng phone ko at kaagad akong napaupo, I yawned,
reached for my phone on the side table as I answer it sleepily.
"Hello?"
"Hi, Sera!" I smiled when I heard the voice. "Excited na akong umuwi ka dito!"
"See you real soon, Kikay!" Napangisi ako. "I will treat you, I promise!"
"Oo naman, 'no! Sa success mong 'yan, ewan ko lang kung hindi mo ako ililibre,
sasakalin talaga kita!"
I chuckled, shifting my gaze and stopped when I saw Miggy sitting on the sofa
while reading a book.
"Sakto lang," I chuckled. "Ngayong gabi ako ba-byahe d'yan. Baka sa madaling-
araw ako makarating, bukas may kailangan lang akong kitaang kliyente tapos girl
time na!"
"Oo naman! Excited na ako! Imagine? Halos tatlong taon tayong hindi nagkikita,
Sera! Nakakaloka ka!"
"Sus, saglit lang 'yon!" I chuckled.
"Edi wow, sana all sa three years successful!" She almost scream and I laughed.
"S'ya, sige, nakatulog kasi ako. Aayusin ko lang ang gamit ko para makaalis
mamaya. Usap tayo bukas, huh?"

"Oo naman! Sige, ingat, Sera! I miss you so much! Mwuah!" I

heard her kissing sounds.
I chuckled, my heart thumped in happiness as I answer.
"I miss you too, Kikay! See you!"
Sa pagbaba ko ng phone ko ay ngumuso ako nang makitang ibinaba ni Migs ang
librong binabasa at sumulyap sa akin.
"What?" I pouted. "Hindi ka pa kumain 'no?"
"I did, Ate." Aniya. "Tatawagin sana kita para kumain kaso tulog ka kaya dito
muna ako."
"Hmm, sige, bababa ako." I said.
Muli kong binuksan ang bagahe ko at naglagay ng damit, sa pagsulyap ko sa
kapatid ko ay nakatitig nanaman s'ya sa akin.
"Come on, Migs. What is it?" Tumitig ako sa kanya.
He sighed, then slowly spoke.
"Will you be alright?"
"Huh? Of course, why not?" I asked.
"You might see him there," Aniya.
I stopped, tumikhim ako at inabot ang tinutupi kong damit para ilagay sa
bagahe.
"So?" I asked. "Matagal na iyon, Migs. Tsaka, impossible, I will go there only
for a project."
"Paano pag-nagkita kayo?"
"Edi magkita," I said and sighed. "Tsaka impossible talaga, kliyente ko lang
naman ang kikitain at wala na."
He eyed me, then slowly nodded.
 "I can come with you?"
"Kaya ko, Migs." I smiled. "Tsaka may pasok ka, di ba? Hayaan mo, sa bakasyon
mo babalik tayo para mabisita mo rin si Tatay."
"Send me a picture, Ateng." Aniya at ngumiti ako at tumango.
"I will," I said.
Tita Asunta chose to stay in our house while I was gone to look after my
brother. Inihatid ako ni Marco at doon ko rin nalamang kasama rin s'ya sa proyekto.
"Really?" My smile widened.
"Hmm," He winked at me. "Pero mauuna kayo, may kailangan pa kasi akonh
asikasuhin. I will be there after a week."
I nodded, habang nakatingin sa daan ay nakangiti.
I'm excited to be back but not that much. Kinakabahan din ako sa kung anong
mangyayari.
Pero kagaya nga ng sabi ko, mukhang impossible. Hindi, impossible talaga. Hindi
na kami magkikitang muli.
I highly doubt it.
It was late night when we reached the place, hinihikab pa ako habang papasok sa
loob ng bahay at nakasunod sa akin si Marco habang hila ang mga bagahe ko.
"Will you be alright here?" He asked, his eyes roaming around the house.
"Hmm," I hummed, staring at the place filled with dirt and dust.
"You can't sleep here, Sera." Nilingon ko si Marco.
"I can clean," I said. "Tsaka, buong buhay ko dito ako nakatira, I can manage."
"Even just for tonight," Nagkatinginan kaming dalawa. "You had an early meeting
earlier, tapos ang haba ng byahe. You can't possible clean this and sleep that
fast."
Tatanggi sana ako pero bigla akong napabahing kaya natakpan ko ang bibig ko.
Napatawa si Marco, ngumiwi naman ako at hinarap s'ya.

"Okay, fine. What do you suggest? I can't stay in your

house kasi may byahe kang pa-Maynila, di ba?"
"You can," Aniya. "Nandoon pa rin naman ang maids,"
"Ayaw ko," I sighed, getting the other baggage from him and pulled it outside.
"Natatakot ako sa mansyon n'yo, masyadong malaki, baka may multo."
He laughed, sumunod s'ya sa akin habang nagsasalita.
"Edi, ihahatid kita sa hotel." Aniya.
"Masyadong mahal, alam mo na." I shrugged.
"Ang arte ni Serang," Tinulak n'ya ako kaya umawang ang labi ko at pinalo s'ya.
"Close ba tayo, huh?" I rolled my eyes.
He laughed again and was about to tease me again when my phone rang.
Umayos ako ng tayo at mabilis na sinagot ang tawag.
"Hello--"
"Bakit mo ako iniwan, Sera?!" Inarte palang sa boses ay napangiwi na ako.
"Ano nanaman, Intoy?" I hissed.
Marco laughed, "Si Intoy? Yieee..." Asar n'ya kaya sinipa ko s'ya.
"Maghanap ka nalang ng hotel!" I hissed quietly and Marco laughed, inagaw ang
bagahe kong dala para ibalik sa kanyang sasakyan.
"Bakit mo ako iniwan mag-isa?" Inarte n'ya.
I rolled my eyes then chukled, getting the keys to lock the house again.
"Busy ako," I said. "Tsaka, may project ako, di ba?"
"Eh, bakit ka aalis? Paano na ako dito? Paano na ang Sta. Monica kung wala ang
magandang dilag kagaya mo?"
I bursted out laughing, napailing ako at sinagot s'ya.
"Manahimik ka nga d'yan, Intoy. Bakit hindi ka nalang magronda d'yan at baka
may mga bata nanamang palaboy-laboy sa gabi!"
"Day off ko ngayon, Sera. Ang daya naman, kala ko ba magde-date tayo!" He
exclaimed.
"Asa," I smirked.
 "Daya naman oh!"
"Sus, tama na nga. Mag-ronda ka d'yan sa barangay! Aba, kaya maraming batang
gala kasi cellphone ka ng cellphone!"
"Eh, sa madaya ka, eh! Akala ko ba magde-date--"
"Hoy, kailan ako, um-oo?" I raised my brow.
"Sa imagination ko! Basta, bahala ka, hindi kita titigilan kapag hindi mo ako
hahayaang makipag-date--"
"Oo na, oo na!" I cut him off. "Isang beses lang, huh, Intoy? Ang kulit-kulit
mo, sinasabi ko sa'yo."
"Oo nga! Date, huh? Sera?"
"Oo, isang beses na date lang. Kapag makulit ka pa rin, hagis ko 'yang batuta
mo sa'yo." I hissed.
"Yehey!" He cheered, I chuckled pero kaagad na natigilan ng may tumunog sa may
halaman sa gilid ng bahay at ang pag-galaw ng halaman.
I immediately turned my phone off, sumulyap kay Marco na inaayos ang maleta
bago naglakad patungo sa halaman.
"Sino 'yan?" I asked, walked towards it and when I was about to touch the
plant, halos mapasigaw ako sa gulat nang may lalaking tumakbo mula sa pagkakatago.
He was pulling his cap down, nasagi pa n'ya si Marco na gulat din at umakma
akong hahabol pero kumaripas s'ya ng takbo paalis.
My forehead creased.

What the hell was that?

"Ano 'yon?" My eyes widen as I watch the tall man running like crazy, natipalok
pa s'ya roon at nakita ko pa ang paglapit ng isang traysikel sa kanya at nang
makita ito ay mabilis s'yang sumakay af humarurot paalis.
"M-Magnanakaw?" I murmured.
"You really should stay in a hotel, Sera." Kumunot ang noo ni Marco at
hinawakan ang braso ko at ipinasok ako sa sasakyan.
I stayed in Casa Amara that night to rest, pumunta si Marco sa Maynila kaya
naiwan ako roon.
Siguro ay dahil nakatulog ako sa byahe ay hindi na ako inantok, nagpa-service
ako ng pagkain at wine dahil ginutom ako at hindi na makatulog.
I brushed my hair when I heard the doorbell.
I stood and brushed my hair, inayos ko ang roba ko at sumilip at nakita ang
isang matangkad na lalaki sa tapat.
He was with a cart with foods, kumunot ang noo ko at sinubukang silipin ang
kanyang mukha pero nanatili s'yang nakatungo at itinatago ang mukha sa mask na
suot.
"Uh...'yan ba ang order?" I asked.
He nodded slowly, not looking at me.
Sumulyap ako sa pagkain at nakitang medyo marami iyon.
"Kaunti lang ang order ko, Sir. Just steak and a bottle of wine." I said.
Hindi n'ya ako sinagot, kumuha s'ya ng notepad at nagsulat roon bago iniabot sa
akin.
Free.
The words was scribbled in the pad.
Oh, maybe he can't speak?
I attempted looking at him again but he looked away.
"Oh... Papasok nalang, Sir." I said and opened the door.
Nauna ako, sumunod naman s'ya sa akin at inihatid sa may table ang pagkain. I
followed him and watched his back, he's tall and lean.
I stopped and watch the familiarity of his stance. I frowned and my heart
started beating wildly.
"E-Excuse me--" I was about to call him when my phone rang. I groaned, mabilis
na kinuha ang phone ko at sinagot.
"Hello?"
 "Ma'am, nand'yan na raw po sa inyo si Engr. Silvano." Jade said.
"Oh," I bit my lip. "Napaaga ba ang flight? Tell him to go to Casa Amara, na-
book ko na ang team, I will tell them nalang about the early arrival."
"Sige, Ma'am." Aniya.
I nodded, turned the phone of and immediately gaze to the man inside my room
but my mouth just parted and I gasped when he's already gone.
Hinabol ko pa ito sa pintuan pero kaagad akong napailing nang walang tao akong
naabutan.
You must be crazy, Sera.
The door rang, mabilis akong nagbukas sa pag-asang ang lalaking naghatid iyon
pero kaagad na bumagsak ang balikat ko nang makita ang isang matangkad na lalaki.
"Yes?" I gaze at him and notice his resemblance to someone.
"Hi, Ma'am. For you." Nagulat ako nang ilahad n'ya sa akin ang bulaklak na
hawak na naguguluhan kong tinanggap.
"Uhm... Kanino galing?"
"From the management, Ma'am. Casa Amara is pleased to have you as a guest."
"M-Me?" I pointed myself.
"Yes," Naguguluhang tumango ako at sumulyap.
"And you are?"
"Warren, Ma'am." He smiled. "Bellboy po."
"Oh..." I nodded and smiled. "Thanks, Warren."
That was a weird night for me.
Malalaki ang hakbang ko pababa sa restaurant kung saan ko makikita ang mga
kliyente. Medyo na-late ako ng gising dahil sa nakatulog ako pagkatapos uminom ng
wine.
Now, I am panicking. Nakakahiya sa kliyente ko!
Nagtanong ako sa guard at kaagad akong itinuro kung nasaan ang kliyente ko. He
pointed the place, mabilis akong naglakad, inaayos ang dress ko at ang buhok kong
sumasabog sa kakatakbo ko.
I was carrying my laptop and when I saw my client, I almost ran.
"I'm sorry, I'm late!" Hinahapo kong singhap.
Napatayo s'ya at kaagad na napangiti sa akin.
"Oh my God, Sera! You're here!" She smiled, natawa ako ng yakapin n'ya ako at
mabilis akong umayos at niyakap s'ya pabalik.
"Nice seeing you again, Lars." I chuckled.
"You've become prettier!" She exclaimed, her black eyes smiling, napasulyap ako
sa tabi n'ya at nagitla nang makita ang isa pang babae.
"Oh, Sera. This is Winter." The beautiful girl stood to greet me too.
"Win, this is Engr. Flores, 'yong kine-kwento ko." Aniya.
"Hi, Engineer! You're so pretty!" She cheered.
I smiled, nakipag-beso ako sa kanya at nakipag-kamay.
"You're beautiful too, the both of you." Sumulyap ako kay Lars na nangingiti.
"It was nice meeting you."
"Naman!" She beemed.
"She's kinda young, hmm..." Winter then stared at me and smiled. "May boyfriend
ka na ba, Engr.? May kilala ako! Pinsan ng asawa ko, ilang years ng single at
tuyot--"
"I really don't have time for lovelife now," Nag-init ang pisngi ko. "And you
can just call me Sera. I'm Serafine Mendez."
"Oh, but why are they calling you Engr. Flores?"
"Nakasanayan lang, my family in my mother's side are engineers kaya..." I
smiled.
"Wow!" She clapped her hands. "Ang galing! Lars here is a nurse, you're an
engineer and ako...hmmm? Model?" Napaisip pa s'ya. "Sayang, wala rito si Zire!
Makulit 'yon!" Daldal n'ya at biglang natahimik.
"Ah...sorry, madaldal lang." She acted as if zipping her mouth.
I chuckled and nodded.
"It's alright, I like people like you. Ang awkward kasi masyado kapag seryoso
ang meeting 'no? Nakakapressure, I like it more when we're just talking like this."
I smiled genuinely.
"That's great!" Winter beemed.
"Pag-usapan na natin ang project bago pa ako maligaw ng landas at tanungin ka
kung ilang taon ka ng tuyot." Ngisi n'ya.
My eyes widen and my cheeks flushed.
Napahagalpak ng tawa si Lars at kinurot si Winter na natatawa lang sa akin.
"Win, yari ka sa asawa mo." Lars teased.
"Sus, gusto nga 'nun nadidiligan! Pitikin ko pa lieutenant n'ya--"
"Hoy!" Naghagalpakan pa silang dalawa kaya natawa ako at nailing, nararamdaman
na ang pagiging komportable.
"Baka nahahawaan na natin ng kalokohan si Sera!" Tinuro ako ni Lars at napatawa
ako at nailing, namumula.
"Sus, kunwari lang 'yan. Baka camera shy din kasi disyerto.
Napahagalpak ako ng tawa, halos sumakit ang t'yan ko sa dalawa at napailing
ako, sobrang init ng pisngi.
"Not really--"
"Sorry to disturb you, ladies." I froze when I heard a voice.
"Oh, you're here!" Lars smiled.
My heart thumped and shifted my gaze when I felt the chair beside me moved.
My mouth parted a bit when I saw a man sitting beside me wearing his corporate
suit.
He shifted his gaze at me and when our eyes locked, my heart went haywire.
"Engineer Mendez," He acknowledged me, his sharp eyes gazed at me coldly.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 23

Kabanata 23
I've been to world class executive meetings but I was never this nervous my
entire life.
Nag-uusap silang tatlo nina Lars at Winter pero ako'y parang kahoy na tuwid
lang ang pagkakaupo.
I've moved on pero hindi ko mapagkakaila ang kabang nararandaman ko. I know I
forgot about him, ilang taon na rin ang nakalipas!
I've never stalked him once kaya nakamove-on na ako but why the hell I can
smell his perfume?! Hindi s'ya nagpalit ng pabango!
He's wearing a plain white shirt underneath his black coat and pants. I saw a
gold chain necklace on his neck, sa gilid lang nakalabas at nakatago sa loob ng
kanyang shirt ang pendant.
Gusto kong hilahin para sana tignan pero alam kong hindi na pwede iyon.
He matured a bit, well, he still looks the same but he looks more stiff now
than he was before.
"Yes, si Engineer Flores ang sinasabi ko sa'yo noon, Vioxx!" Lars said. "I met
her in Europe last year when we're in a convention, kasama ko si Cas. Eh, 'nung
meeting n'ya, naiwan akong paikot-ikot sa hotel kaya nakilala ko. I was shocked
when I found out she is an engineer, at Flores pa! Bukod sa mga Miranda at
Sandejas, kilala mga Flores internationally than here, am I right?"
Nanatili akong nakasulyap kay Vioxx pero nagitla ako nang bigla s'yang bumaling
sa akin at nagkatitigan kami.
"Sera?" Lars called.
"Oh!" Mabilis akong nag-iwas ng tingin at bumaling kay Lars.
"H-Huh?"
"Di ba?" Aniya at ngumiti.
"O-Oo," I cleared my throat, mabilis na inabot ang juice sa harapan at uminom.
Napasulyap ako kay Winter na nangingiti, I saw her resting her back on the
chair with a menacing smile.
 She glanced at me and back to the man sitting beside me.
"Magkakilala kayo?" She suddenly asked.
My heart raced, I saw Lars stopped and glance at Winter back to us.
"Magkakilala kayo?" She looks confused.
I glanced at Vioxx and saw his jaw clenched a bit, licking his lower lip.
Winter's lip twitched, glancing at us back and forth again.
"So..."
"No," I suddenly said, looking away.
Lars nodded, nanliit ang mata ni Win at nang bahagya ako sumulyap kay Vioxx ay
seryoso s'ya, kagat ang ibabang labi at seryoso ang mga mata.
"Weh?" Win asked.
"Let's proceed to our business," Malamig na putol ni Vioxx at umayos ng upo.
"Y-Yeah," I murmured, opening my laptop, trying to get rid of my
hyperventilating heart.
I cleared my throat, I noticed the silent conversation of Lars and Winter
habang ako'y nanatiling seryoso doon.
The project is about a renovation project of some establishments in The Lost
Island. Marami raw kasing nasita ang management nila sa kaunting establishments
doon dahil sa paglabag sa mga rules ng isla.
They wanted the attractions there to be eco-friendly and also, the
infrastractures. Ang akala ko nga noong una ay dito ako sa Casa Amara mag-po-focus
pero isa ako sa inilagay nila sa isla.
The firm I am managing is a pro when it comes to this, kaya siguro kami kinuha
ay dahil noon pa man ay kilala ang mga Flores sa ganitong klase ng style, usually,
sa mga establishments.

We have to renovate some cabanas and cottages, aayusin din

ang designs ng mga maliliit na kainan doon.
As much as possible, it was their and our goal to keep the island untouched
kaya ang pwede lang galawin ay doon sa parteng daungan ng mga barko at bangka.
I got pre-occupied at work that I keep on talking to him about the plans at
huli na nang matanto ko iyon.
"Here, what do you think about this design? Fresh air could go inside." I
showed him my laptop.
He glanced at my laptop and nodded, napatingin ako sa kanya nang ipakita n'ya
sa akin ang laptop n'ya.
"Yes, that would do. What do you think about this? This is the design for some
restos there. Would it be alright?"
"Hmm," I nodded. "How about nets? Mayroon namang mga nets doon kung saan lang
pwedeng dumaong ang mga barko, di ba?"
"Yes," He glanced at Lars. "Lars, can you notify Caspian regarding the rooms
for the engineers and workers?"
"Yes, of course." She smiled.
"How about the guests? May bisita ba sa isla?" I asked.
"No one," Winter answered me. "Dalawang linggo nang hindi nagpapapasok ng mga
bisita sa isla sa ngayon dahil nga sa renovation. Kayo-kayo lang ang naroon kaya
walang magiging problema."
"Great, thank you." I smiled.
"Here, what do you think? It'll be great if we have different designs for the
cabanas." He said.
"Yes, I'd like that." My smile brightened. "Doon sa malapit sa dalampasigan,
maganda 'yong designs na pinakita ko sa'yo kanina but if the guests wanted the
quiet part then we can use yours."
I said and glance at him, natigilan ako nang mahuli ko s'yang nakatitig sa
akin.
My heart hammered inside my chest, napakurap ako at napatitig sa kanya.
He still have those dark brown eyes, that thin firm lips I always wanted to
kiss.
"Hmm..." I heard Win's voice, napaayos ako ng upo at mabilis na nag-iwas ng
tingin.
I saw Vioxx tilted his head, clearing his throat and started typing on his
laptop.
"You two are getting along just fine," Lars commented, smiling.
"G-Ganun talaga siguro kapag magkasama sa project?" I faked a laugh. "T-Tsaka,
I am sure Engr. Miranda is great in this field. I think I'll have a great
experience."
"I see," Lars smiled cheekily then glance at him. "What do you think of Engr.
Flores, Vioxx? She's great, isn't she?"
Kumalabog ang puso ko at halos hindi na alam ang ita-type sa laptop ko.
"She's young and beautiful! Isa pa, single naman ata itong si Engr. Flores,
kaya...ano, huh?" Win murmured and glance at him. "Di ba, tuyot ka?" She said in a
small voice.
Pasimple akong sumulyap kay Vioxx na bahagyang isinarado ang laptop at kinuha
ang tubig para uminom.
I watched him quietly as he drink his wated, waiting for his response.
"I'm looking forward for the experience," He said, glancing at me a bit with
his serious face and my cheeks heated.
It was awkward, nang magtawag si Lars ng waiter para sa pagkain ay nanahimik
ang buong lamesa. Tanging si Win at Lars lang ang nag-uusap at ako ay tahimik at
nakikiramdam.
What is it, heart? Bakit malakas ang pagkabog mo?
Pasimple akong humawak sa dibdib ko at naramdaman ko ang malakas na kabog ng
puso ko.

Maybe because it's hot here? O kaya kulang na ako sa

exercise?
"Are you fine?" Mabilis kong naibaba ang kamay ko at mabilis na napasulyap sa
tabi ko.
"H-Huh?"
"Ayos ka lang?" He asked again.
I slowly nodded, smiling a bit.
"Yeah," I murmured, babalik na sana sa pagkain nang marinig s'ya.
"Wait," He called. Hinarap ko s'yang nagtataka.
"Hmm?" He lifted his hand and tried touching my face but I panicked and
immediately avoided his hand.
He stopped, I saw how his eyes avoided my gaze and licked his lip.
"May kalat sa gilid ng labi mo," He said timidly.
"Ah!" I gasped, mabilis na kumuha ng tissue para punasan ang labi ko at nakita
ko ang pagkunot ng noo n'ya at bahagyang pagtiim ng bagang.
He nodded a bit to himself before fixing himself and glanced at the women
infront of him.
"I'll go first, may kailangan pa akong asikasuhin." He said.
"Oh, sure!" Lars smiled. "We'll be alright here, Vioxx."
He nodded, not taking a glance at me as he stood up from his seat.
I saw how the people dining inside the resto glance at him and I silently watch
him walk with grace, his cold, intimidating eyes staring blankly at everyone.
His long legs glided with such an athletic grace, his shoulders are broad and
his hair danced with the wind when he combed it with his fingers.
Shit, Serafine Veronica! Get a grip!
I called Kikay and apologized na hindi muna matutulay ang bonding naming
dalawa. Nagulantang kasi ako nang i-anunsyo ni Lars na ngayong araw din kaagad ang
alis namin patungong isla.
Para na ata akong mababaliw pagbalik ko sa hotel room ko, hindi ako
magkandaugaga. Hindi ko alam kung ilang mura na ang ipinaulan ko sa sarili ko.
 When I was too lost, I found myself typing on my laptop's search box and tried
looking for his name on the internet.
He built his own company three years ago, he established it without his
family's help. He was stripped off his riches and inheritance.
Nabalita pa noon ang announcement ng pamilya tungkol sa pagtiwalag ni Vioxx sa
kanila. It was sad but I've read from tbe internet how he managed his own company.
They weren't that big pero hindi nahuhuli, lalo na at kilala ang CEO ng
kompanya. Some of the clients from the main Miranda firm went to him when they
found out he has his own company.
They got some projects abroad bit they're more popular locally.
Status: Single
"Shit!" I cursed under my breath.
Wala pa rin s'yang asawa?!
"Impossible," I muttered under my breath. "Sa gwapo n'yang 'yon?"
I closed my eyes, halos sabunutan nanaman ang sarili sa mga naiisip. I stood
from my bed when I read a message from my co-engineers about their arrival.
Nauna na si Engr. Silvano rito kaya tumayo ako at nag-ayos para kitain s'ya.
Binuksan ko ang pintuan ng kwarto ko pero natigilan nang makita ang lalaking
kalalabas lang din ng kwarto katapat ko.
Vioxx only with his shirt and pants locked the door and glance at me. My heart
quickened again.
"Uhm, s-saan ka?" I asked.

"D'yan lang," He said, standing infront of me, putting his

hands on his pocket.
"G-Ganun ba?" I cleared my throat.
"Sera!" Natigilan ako at mabilis na napalingon at nakitang palapit si Engr.
Silvano na may malaking ngiti.
"Engineer," I called awkwardly.
"I knew I'll see you here," He smiled at me, nagitla pa ako nang bahagya n'ya
akong yakapin doon at nanlaki ang mata ko at napaatras.
"B-Bakit pala? Uh, akala ko sa resto na tayo mag-uusap?"
"I got bored and thought your room will be around here, buti lumabas ka. I
brought the architect's plan, we can check on it." Aniya.
"Sa resto nalang?" I asked but he laughed at me.
"Silly," He pinched my nose. "Matao sa resto, it'll be more great if we check
on this inside the room."
Wala naman sanang problema roon pero kinabahan ako nang makita si Vioxx na
kunot ang noo, nakataas ang kilay at nakatingin sa amin.
"Sa rest--"
"Dito nalang," He smiled.
"Engr. Silvano," Miski ako ay kinilabutan nang marinig ang baritonong boses na
iyon.
Mabilis na napatingin ito at nanlaki ang mata nang makita kung sino ang tumawag
sa kanya.
"Engr. Miranda!" He exclaimed and smiled. "It's nice seeing you here."
He nodded, glancing at me briefly.
"You can both check the plans later, get ready first. We'll leave to the island
in an hour." He said and glance at me again.
"Handa naman na kami, kukunin nalang ang bagahe--"
"It's better if you take your bags in the lobby right now, the yacht won't wait
for you." He said coldly.
Engr. Silvano is confused but nodded.
"Sure," He said and glance at me. "Doon muna ako, Sera."
"Alright," I smiled awkwardly and nodded.
He left, tahimik ko s'yang tinignan habang naglalakad paalis at nang mawala ay
napabaling ako kay Vioxx na seryoso pa rin at nakahalukipkip.
 "Uh, punta muna ako sa baba." I said awkwardly.
He glanced at me coldly, the side of his lips lifting.
"Get in," Aniya.
My eyes widen.
"H-Huh?"
"Pumasok ka ulit sa kwarto mo," He commanded and glance at my room.
"A-At bakit?" I raised my brow at him. "Bababa ako kung gusto ko, bakit ako
papasok?"
"Pumasok na, Serafine." Aniya at kumunot ang noo sa akin.
"Ayos na ang gamit ko! I could easily took it with me later when we leave to
the island, pupunta lang akong resto--"
"Gutom ka?" He stopped me.
"Hindi--"
"Ano, may kikitain ka nanamang lalaki?" He scoffed.
"Anong..." My eyes widen. "Wala! A-Anong sinasabi mo d'yan?!"
"Anong gagawin mo sa baba? I could call if you're hungry--"
"Hindi nga ako gutom, gusto ko lang bumaba--"
"Pumasok ka, Serafine." He pointed my door.
"Ayoko!" I exclaimed but froze when he took a step forward.

Tumama ang likod ko sa pintuan, kumalabog ang dibdib ko

nang magkatitigan kami. He towered me, kahit nakaheels ako ay ang mata n'ya lang
ang inabot ko.
"Get in," He said.
"No..." I hissed.
He tilted his head and moved closer, kumalabog ang puso ko ng mabilis at
bumilis din ang paghinga ko.
Hs brown eyes stared at me, my stomach clenched and I notice him glance on my
parted lips.
Naghaharumentado na ako, nanginginig ang kamay habang sinusubukang idikit ang
keycard sa handle ng pintuan.
"I'm fucking mad at you..." He whispered.
"I-Inaano ba kita?" I murmured. "W-Wala naman akong ginagawa."
He scoffed, staring at me deeply again.
"Kaya nga ako galit," He sighed.
"G-Gulo mo..." I groaned.
He moved his face, nanginginig naman ang kamay ko at napasinghap nang tumunog
ang lock at nabuksan ko ang kwarto.
Napaatras ako at napaawang ang labi n'ya nang mabilis akong tumakbo papasok at
sumilip sa kanya sa pintuan ng kwarto.
"B-Bye, engineer." I murmured. His mouth parted but before he could even speak
ay sinarado ko na ang pintuan sa mukha n'ya at nagtatatakbo papasok ng kwarto.
Hours later, we were ready for the transfer. Hila-hila ko ang dalawang maleta
ko palabas ng kwarto habang nakaipit sa balikat ko ang phone para kausapin ang team
ko.
Jade notified me about their arrival, naroon na silang lahat at nagsisimula
nang magkarga ng bagahe ang yate.
I cursed when my phone fell, mabilis na binitawan ang maleta para abutin ang
phone ko at nang makatayo ay inabot muli ang bag pero may mabilis na umagaw nito sa
akin.
Nagitla ako nang makita si Vioxx na hila-hila na ang hawak kong maleta.
Mabilis kong hinila ang isa at humabol sa kanya.
"Engineer!" I called pero hindi s'ya lumingon at dire-diretso habang hawak ang
gamit ko. May bitbit din s'yang isang travel bag sa isang kamay.
"Engineer!" I called and ran, I followed him, mabilis ding sumabay sa kanya sa
elevator at sinubukang abutin ang maleta ko pero hindi n'ya ibinigay.
"Uhm, akin na..." I said but he did not answer me, walang pakialam s'yang
lumabas habang hila pa rin ang maleta ko nang marating namin ang ground floor kaya
mabilis din akong humabol sa kanya.
"Engineer!" Natigil lang ako sa pagsunod kay Vioxx nang lumitaw ang secretary
ko kasama ang iba mula sa team.
I smiled at them and nodded, sinusunn ng pansin si Vioxx na dire-diretso sa
counter para ipa-scan ang mga bags.
"Ang ganda dito, Engineer!" Bati ni Clarisse, isa sa mga engineer.
"Hmm, yes but I guess mas maganda sa isla."
"Nakapunta na po kayo?" Jade asked and I shook my head.
"Not yet but I've seen it in photos, 'yon talaga ang gustong puntahan ng mga
tao dito kaso bilang lang ang binibigyan ng pass. Swerte tayo at doon ang project."
"Sobra, Ma'am! I've seen the place in photos too! May shipwreck doon, di ba?
Atsaka hindi lang view ang maganda. I've seen a couple of good-looking guys, here!"
They cheered.
I chuckled and nodded.
"I guess..."
"Nakita ko kanina, Ma'am, may dalawang lalaking green ang mata!" Ani ni Joanna,
"Ang pogi!"
Oh, must me Caspian and Warrion?
"May asawa na ata, Joanna." Jade commented. "May kasamang babae, eh."
"Edi iyong nakshirt na white nalang!" Turo n'ya sa hindi kalayuan kaya nangunot
ang noo ko at mabilis na sinulyapan ang tinuturo n'ya at hindi nga ako nagkamali.
"Kanina ko pa tinititigan, Engineer!" Hagikhik ni Clarisse kaya napalabi ako.
"Gaga, si Engineer Miranda 'yan!" Joanna commented and the girls stopped. Akala
ko ay nahiya pero nagtititili nanaman sila.
"Hala, ibig sabihin...makakasama natin?!" Jade exclaimed.
My lips protruded.
"Engineer Flores, pakilala mo naman kami!" Clarisse shrieked quietly.
"Hindi na 'yan available," I murmured coldly and they all stopped.
"W-Weh?" Sabay-sabay nilang baling sa akin.
"Oo," I smirked, humigpit ang hawak sa maletang hawak ko. "May asawa na 'yan,
secret marriage."
"Uh-huh..." Natulos ako sa kinatatayuan nang may naramdaman akong paghinga sa
may tenga ko.
Napatalon ako at nanlaki ang mata nang makita si Vioxx sa tabi ko.
"H-Hi, Engineer!" The girls greeted in unison.
My lips protruded.
"Hello," He then gave a loopsided smile and I almost rolled my eyes when the
girls tried hiding their giggles.
Naramdaman ko ang kamay ni Vioxx na humawak sa maletang hawak ko at naramdaman
ko ang daliri n'ya sa kamay ko.
My forehead creased, I saw him slowly pulling my hand from gripping the bag and
took it with him before I could even protest.
"The yacht is ready, you can go inside." He said with a smile on his face at
halos magtulakan na ang team ko paalis habang namumula sa kilig.
My brow raised, hinarap si Vioxx na binasa pa ang labi at sinuklay ang kanyang
buhok ng daliri.
I eyed him seriously and he glanced at me.
"What?" He asked innocently.
"Akin na ang bag ko." I scoffed, aagawin sana ang gamit ko pero nalayo n'ya
iyon kaagad sa akin.
"Akin na sabi--"
My breath hitched when he moved his face closer to me, his eyes meeting mine in
the briefest instance and he tilted my chin with his finger, a playful smile on his
face.
"Secret marriage? Hmm, then, who's the wife, my engineer? You?" He smirked.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Kabanata 24

Kabanata 24
Nakamove-on na ako! Nakamove-on na ako!
My eyes sharpened when I saw him talking to a woman. Nagbubulungan ang team ko
habang nakaupo sa tabi ko.
"Kilala mo ang asawa, engineer?" They keep on asking me.
I shrugged, hindi muna sila pinansin at nanatiling nakatitig sa lalaking
nakakairita.
Nakamove-on na ako, okay? Tsaka, malay ko ba at may girlfriend na iyang
lalaking 'yan!
Humalukipkip ako, nakatitig sa pwesto kung nasaan si Vioxx.
He was leaning on the side of the yacht, talking to a beautiful woman. She's
tall and looked so formal, nakakulay asul na dress ang babae pero isang beses ko
lang napagmasdan ang mukha.
"Tara na kasi, isa!" Winter hissed when I caught her pulling a tall man.
Napatitig ako sa lalaking hila n'ya at napaayos ng upo.
"Oh, 'yong bellboy?" I murmured.
"Huh? Ano 'yon, Ma'am?" Baling ni Jade sa akin. I pointed the man na hila-hila
ni Winter na ayaw pa lumabas.
"Ang gwapo," Joanna whispered then gasped. "Engineer, ganito ba talaga sa lugar
n'yo? Puno ng mga gwapo?"
"Anong pangalan, Engineer?" Clarisse asked.
"Warren!" Winter hissed. "Lapitan mo na, ayan oh!"
"No, Win. Ayoko!" Warren gasped.
Para tuloy s'yang higante na hinihila ni Winter palabas.
"Sige na, arte mo. Kaya parehas kayong tuyot ng pinsan mong 'yan, eh. Sige na."
"No..." He shook his head, stared again at the woman Vioxx is talking to and
bit his lip.
"Ren!"
"Hindi talaga..." Iling ni Warren at suminghap.
"Eh..." Winter stomped her feet.
"Baby," I suddenly saw the man with green eyes walked towards her, it's
Warrion, nag-iritan ang mga katabi ko at kinalabit ako.
"Yan 'yong sinasabi namin sa'yong gwapo! May kasama pa iyong isa kanina!" Jade
whispered.
I pouted, pinagmasdang kausap ni Winter at ng asawa n'ya iyong bellboy na si
Warren.
Pwede pala 'yon? Bellboy sa yate?
I was confused but decided to glance at the annoying, ugly and old engineer
talking to the lady in blue and saw him staring at me.
Kumunot ang noo ko at sinimangutan s'ya, I saw his lip twitch as he smirked and
talked to the woman again.
"Si Architect Sandejas ba 'yan?" Halos mapatalon ako sa gulat nang lumitaw si
Engr. Silvano sa tabi ko at naupo.
"Sino?" My forehead creased and glance at him.
"Si Architect Sandejas, well, her mother is a Sandejas. Her father is a
Valderama." Aniya at tinuro ang babaeng kausap ni Vioxx.
"Sandejas-Valderama?" My forehead creased and remembered the famous surname.
"Oh..."
So, she's really high-class. Wow.
I saw Vioxx smiled when she laughed, kuryoso na ako sa topic nila pero wala
akong pakialam at napailing.
Get a grip, Serafine!
I stood from my seat, tinawag pa ako nila Jade at tinanong pero hindi ko sila
pinansin at dire-diretsong umalis.
 Nadaan ko si Vioxx at ang Architect at nahuli kong tumigil
ito sa pakikipag-usap at sumulyap pa sa akin na nagtataka pero tinaasan ko s'ya ng
kilay at inirapan.
Iritado akong naglakad paalis, paikot sa yate patungo doon sa may likuran kung
saan mas tahimik at payapa.
Mag-gagabi na siguro kami makakarating ng isla.
I bit my lip and rested my arm on the metal, nakatitig ako sa payapang
paghampas ng alon sa kulay asul na dagat.
It was clear, kita ko na ang mga isda sa ilalim at corals. The sky was clear
too, kung titignan muna sa pwesto ko ang dagat ay kapantay na nito ang langit sa
malayo.
I smiled, watching the peaceful sight right infront of me.
I got everything now but why does my heart feels empty?
Inayos ko ang balabal na nasa leeg ko pero napasinghap ako nang tangayin iyon
ng hangin.
My eyes widen, mabilis na sinundan ng mata ko ang balabal at napaayos ng tayo.
Sumabit ito sa may bakal malapit sa akin kaya sinubukan kong abutin pero hindi ko
nakaya.
I sighed, tilted my head and nodded to prepare myself.
Mabilis akong tumapak sa isang parte ng bakal na hawakan at kumapit roon,
iniangat ang katawan para maabot ang balabal.
Still, I failed kaya mas tinaasan ko pa ang pag-apak sa bakal at inangat ang
kamay ko. I tried reaching for it but a scream left my lips when I felt strong arms
wrapping on my waist and pulled me away from my place.
"What--" I groaned when I saw how my scarf flew away with the wind.
"What the hell are you doing, Serafine?!" His loud voice groaned.
"Yong scarf ko!" I exclaimed.
Pilit na kumawala pero mabilis n'yang nahapit ang baywang ko pabalik kaya hindi
ko na naabutan ang scarf ko na tinangay na palayo.
My mouth parted, galit na hinarap ang humila sa akin sa sinamaan s'ya ng
tingin.
"Problema mo?!" I groaned.
His forehead remained creasing, galit s'ya ngayon, ah?
"Ako pang may problema? Sino sa atin ang umakyat d'yan habang umaandar ang
yate?!"
"I will get my scarf!"
"Bullshit, Serafine! Paano kung nahulog ka?! Are you crazy?!" He exclaimed.
"Hindi ako nahulog and I can handle myself just fine! I don't need your fucking
help--"
"I am not fucking helping you, Serafine, dahil alam mong dapat hindi mo ginawa
iyon!"
"At bakit hindi, ha?!" I groaned. "Kukunin ko lang naman--"
"Paano kung nahulog ka?! You weren't thinking! Pinag-aalala mo pa ang mga
tao--"
"Wow, ha?" I groaned and pushed him. "Who told you to care, anyway? Pakialam mo
ba sa akin? Tsaka I don't really think you should be worried!"
"I am fucking worried, Serafine!" He exclaimed, his dark eyes made my heart
thumped wild. "Hindi mo alam kung anong naramdaman ko nang nakita kitang ganyan! If
you fell, huh? What would I do?"
"A-Aba, ewan ko sa'yo!" Kumuyom ang kamay ko sa kaba.
"I would fucking jump in that fucking ocean just to find you, woman!" He said
in frustration.
I froze, mas nagwala ang puso ko at napatitig ako sa kanya at nakita ang galit
n'ya.
We stared at each other until he looked away, closed his eyes and tilted his
head, frustatedly touching the bridge of his nose.
 "Tangina..." He cursed under his breath and opened his
eyes, staring at me.
"Look who is still a fool for you, in the end, I still care, huh?" His jaw
clenched.
I bit my lip, marahas akong napalunok at napatitig sa kanya.
"S-Sino ba nagsabing mag-alala ka..." I said in a small voice.
"No one, Serafine." He sighed. "Just my fucking old self again who's still
hoping like a fool for attention."
Humapdi ang dibdib ko, hindi ko alam pero nangilid ang luha ko sa sinabi n'ya.
"I...I was just cold, k-kaya ko inaabot 'yong scarf ko." Paliwanag ko sa maliit
na boses.
"It doesn't make sense when your arms are showing. Ano, leeg mo lang ang
nilalamig?" He said sarcastically kaya umirap ako.
"Moody ka!" I groaned.
His jaw clenched, tilting his head and spoke.
"I'm really getting old, I guess." He scoffed.
Nanahimik ako, I saw him removing the black jacket he's wearing. Nakatitig lang
ako sa kanya at nagulat ako nang mahubad n'ya ang jacket ay mabilis na ipinatong sa
balikat ko.
I was startled, hinawakan ko ang jacket at akmang ibabalik sa kanya pero muli
n'ya lang hinila iyon pabalik sa balikat ko.
"B-But..."
"You're cold, right? Then, take it." He said.
"Paano ka?" Humigpit ang hawak ko sa jacket n'ya sa balikat ko.
"I'm used to the cold, Engineer." He said and crossed his arms in front of me,
his tight biceps are showing. "Mas malamig ka pa d'yan."
"What..." My mouth parted and he licked his lower lip, shook his head and
turned his back.
"I'm fucking thirsty," He cursed under his breath and walked away.
Hindi ko na s'ya nakita pagkatapos 'nun. I've seen his cousins but he isn't
anywhere near my sight.
Kanina pa nangungulit ang team ko pero wala na akong ganang makipag-usap.
The jacket he gave me smelled like him, nanatili akong nakatitig at nagmamasid
sa paligid hanggang sa nagtawag na sila at nakarating na kami sa isla.
I'd expect the island to be marvelous but not this marvelous. Kahit hindi ako
magsalita ay kita ko ang pagkamangha ng mga kasamahan ko pagdating namin sa isla.
For the past years, I've been to different countries and islands but this one
is definitely one of the kind.
The coconut trees are tall and high, giving people shade from the bright sun.
My mga sun lounger sa may gilid ng dalampasigan.
Sa malayo ay may mga cabanas at sa gilid ay may bilang na resto. Walang ibang
tao sa isla kundi ang iilang empleyado na tumutulong sa pagdaong ng yate.
"Engineer, may free day din naman tayo 'no?" Jade asked.
"Hmm," I nodded, preparing my camera to take pictures.
"Wow! Buti nagdala ako ng bikinis!" Clarisse cheered.
"Yay! Nandito na tayo!" Napatalon ako sa gulat nang lumitaw si Winter at
kumapit sa braso ko.
I chuckled, clinging my arms on hers too.
"Nakita ko na 'to sa picture pero mas maganda pala sa personal." I muttered.
"Oo naman!" She giggled, her bright smile widened. "Wait 'till you see other
attractions here. May shipwreck dito." Aniya.
"I've read it pero gusto kong makita ng personal." I smiled.

"Oo naman," She giggled. "Baka yayain ka ni Vioxx."

Napatingin ako sa kanya at napakurap.
 "B-Bakit naman?" I asked.
"Patola ka, Sera." She chuckled. "Crush ka ni Engr.!"
"H-Huh? Hindi, ah!" I gasped and shook my head. "Impossible, malay ko ba kung
may girlfriend 'yan--"
"Wala, single and tuyot 'yan!" Bulong n'ya. "Kagaya ko lang dati pero sagana na
sa dilig ang Sahara desert--"
"Win..." Sabay kaming napatalon nang may tumikhim at nanlaki ang mata naming
dalawa nang makita si Warrion na nakatitig sa asawa.
"Ano? Tsismoso 'to!" Winter rolled her eyes. "Maya na kita lambingin, huh? May
bago akong friend!" She said and I laughed when she pulled me away from his smiling
husband.
"Pero anyway," She called me. "Crush ka nga."
"Hindi ah," I gulped when she glanced she smirked at me.
"Weh? Eh, ano 'yang jacket na 'yan? Kay engineer 'yan, ah?" She teased.
My mouth parted, he laughed and shook her head, pushing me jokingly.
"Amin na..." She giggled and I bit my lip and my cheeks heated.
Winter left when we were about to go down the island. Polaris even talked to me
for a while before his husband called her.
Bumaba kami sa yate at habang naglalakad sa boardwalk ay nakamasid ako sa
paligid.
I was amazed how beautiful the island is, the fine white sand is glistening
like crystals. The clear, blue sea are tempting to touch.
Sa mataas na parte ay may mga rock formation na tila nililok sa ganda.
"Ma'am, nandoon na po ang mga bagahe." Ani ng isang empleyado.
I smiled and nodded, ibinaba ang camera ar dumiretso kung saan kumukuha na ang
mga kasama ko ng bagahe.
I took mine, hinila ko ang dalawang baggage ko pero hindi pa ako nakakalayo ay
may kumuha nito sa akin kaya nagulat ako.
I shifted my gaze and caught Vioxx taking my bags.
Napakurap ako roon at tumikhim.
"K-Kaya ko." I said with my head high.
He glanced at me coldly, supladong nag-iwas ng tingin at binuhat ang bag ko.
"Hoy..." I called.
Inabot nito sa akin ang travel bag n'ya kaya nagtatakang kinuha ko iyon.
"Bakit? Anong gagawin ko?" I asked.
Hindi n'ya ako sinagot, kinuha n'ya rin ang isa ko pang maleta sa kamay ko at
walang hirap na binuhat at naglakad pauna sa akin kaya umawang ang labi ko.
"What..." I muttered and stood straight when I caught Lars and Winter with
their teasing smiles.
I spent the time taking photos and talking to my team for the plans. Na-meeting
na ni Caspian ang mga empleyado kaya ayos na.
We had our dinner in a resto nearby and saw Vioxx with his cousins, Caspian and
Warrion. Pare-pareho silang matatangkad at matipuno kaya agawin ng pansin.
Wave is in Manila with his wife, uuwi rin ang mga pinsan ngayong gabi sa Casa
dahil sa mga anak but where is Lucian?
I pouted, sumubo ako ng pagkain ng makitang sinusuklay ni Vioxx ang buhok na
may ngisi sa labi.
I sipped on my drink and stared at him, hindi naman na malamig pero hindi ko
alam kung bakit hindi ko hinuhubad ang jacket n'ya.
He shifted his gaze and our eyes met, nanlaki ang mata ko at nabilaukan.

"Engineer!" Jade exclaimed.

I shook my head, lowering my head and coughed to hid my embarassment
Shit, Serafine!
May humaplos sa likod ko at patuloy akong naubo.
Ang maingay na sila Jade sa tabi ko ay nanahimik habang parang mamatay na ako
sa kakaubo.
 "Give her water,” I heard a baritone voice and a touch on my back at mabilis
akong napaangat ng tingin at biglang sininok nang makita si Vioxx na kunot ang noo
at nakadukwang sa tabi ko.
"Tubig? Uh, tubig daw!" Clarisse panicked and gave him water.
Vioxx on his serious face took a glance and my cheeks heated, umiwas ako ng
tingin nang matigil ang ubo at sinisinok naman ngayon!
What the actual fuck, Serafine?!
"Here..." He caught my hand and pulled it down, giving me the glass.
Kumakalabog ang puso at hindi mapakaling kinuha ko ang baso, inalalayan pa n'ya
ang kamay ko sa pag-inom ng tubig.
I nodded slowly when I finished the glass, ibinaba iyon at natantong sobrang
awkward ng buong table.
Ako na nag-eeskadalo at si Vioxx na nakadukwang sa tabi ko, hinahawi ang buhok
sa mukha ko at ang buong team na tahimik at nakatitig sa aming dalawa.
"Uhm, awkward..." Caspian said in a loud voice at nakagat ko ang labi nang
magsitawanan sila.
Vioxx smirked, stood and shook his head. Tahimik na naglakad patungo sa mga
pinsan at binatukan ang tumatawang si Caspian at nang-aasar.
"Fuck you," He cursed under his breath and they laughed again.
I closed my eyes, napainom ako ulit ng tubig at narinig si Jade na nagsasalita.
"Gwapo si Engineer at mas bagay kayo, Engr. Sera kaso...bawal na." She
murmured.
"B-Bakit?"
"Eh, diba, sabi mo may asawa na s'ya? Secret marriage?" She asked and I sighed,
closed my eyes and bit my lip.
So much embarassment for a day, Serafine!
Caspian and Warrion with their wives left after dinner, saglit ko pa silang
nakausap bago umalis dahil kailangan sila ng mga anak.
"Sugar daddy pa rin?" Cas teased me before her wife came.
"Dati pa 'yon," I pouted and he laughed, shaking his head and smirked. "Una na
kami, Sera, you take care of thag old daddy of yours, okay?"
"Old daddy?" Lars asked.
Cas smirked at pinanlakihan ko s'ya ng mata kaya natawa s'ya at nailing,
inakbayan ang asawa.
"Nothing, my star." He smiled. "I was just teasing Sera, anyway, uuna na kami?
'Yong triplets ko kasi at panganay nagwawala na."
My mouth parted and I blinked.
"W-What? Naka-apat ka?!" I exclaimed.
"Yup," He said proudly and my mouth parted again.
"Teka...magkakilala na ba kayo dati?" Naguluhan si Lars at sumulyap sa akin.
I smiled a bit and nodded.
"Long time ago, Lars." I smiled. "Mahabang kwento."
"Oh, what a conincidence." Her eyes widened and glanced at his husband. "You
never told me."
"Well, I didn't know you two knew each other and it's a long time ago." He
smiled.
"Oh," Lars nodded, smiling at me as she offer her hand.

"Thank you, Sera. Nice meeting you again, I didn't know you
knew my husband."
"No worries, Lars, and thank you too." I smiled at her. "I knew them years ago,
dito kasi ako nakatira dati and it happens that I met him and his cousins. Ask Cas,
he will tell you how we met."
"Is it okay?" Cas glance at me and smiled, nodding.
"It's a long time ago and what happened between me and your cousin should be
forgotten. We got our own lives now and I think, it'll be alright. Lars is my
friend and your wife so, it's fine."
 Cas nodded and smiled. Nagpaalam ako sa kanila pati na rin kina Warrion at ang
asawa n'ya bago ako bumalik sa team.
Kaunti nalang ang available na cabana at cabins dahil wala na ang iba para sa
renovation, the bellboy, Warren was the one listing the designated rooms and Vioxx
is nowhere to be found.
Hinayaan ko silang mag-agawan ng kwarto at naghilahan ng kasama. Tanging ang
maliliit na rooms nalang daw ang available at nakapili na sila.
"Has anyone gor their rooms yet?" Warren askes in a thick, english accent.
Napanguso ako roon at naningkit ang mata. Sosyal ng Casa Amara kung ang bellboy
nila ay englishero na rin. Looking at him, he doesn't look like a regular bellboy
to me.
Matangkad at matipuno, gwapo rin. Hawig pa n'ya si Vioxx!
"Do you have your room?" Nang maupo si Engr. Silvano sa tabi ko ay nilingon ko
s'ya.
"Hmm? Wala pa, I will ask about my room later, nag-uunahan pa sila." I smiled.
"Hmm," He nodded and glance at me. "Kaunti nalang ang kwarto and I think it was
occupied already, I got my room at ako lang mag-isa. Do you want to share with me?"

"Uhmm,"
"Si Vioxx ang sa--" Warren stopped. "Nasaan ba 'yon?"
Oh, Vioxx? First name basis sila?
"Anyway, Vioxx is occupying one room. Wala na bang walang kwarto d'yan? It's
okay with him to share a room." He said.
I saw Vioxx's female team mates giggling, may inaasar pa silang babaeng roon at
pinipilit magtaas ng kamay.
"Sera," Engr. Silvano caught my hand.
"Anyone?" Warren asked.
I saw the lady trying a bit to raise her hand pero competitive akong nagtaas ng
kamay at inuhan s'ya.
"Ako!" I exclaimed at natahimik sila.
Warren glanced at me and smiled.
"Yes, Engr. Mendez?" He smirked at me and I noticed his menacing eyes.
"A-Ako nalang sasama sa kwarto..." I said.
"Serafine," Engr. Silvano called. "Sa kwarto ko nalang, ayos lang sa akin."
"Is it fine with you, Engineer? He's a man and you're a woman?" Warren is
serious but I know he's trying his best to stop his smile!
"Why not?" Tumikhim pa ako. "Vioxx is my friend and nothing's wrong. We're
colleagues." I said seriously.
I saw the glares from his team, ang mga kasama ko naman sa team, lalo na ang
mga babae ay napanganga sa biglaang desisyon ko.
"Okay, it's settled then, anyone can go to their respective rooms." Warren
smiled.
May dumating na babae at nakita kong ayon ang kausap ni Vioxx kanina. 'Yong
architect?
"Uh, is there any rooms left? Sorry, I am late." The beautiful lady asked but
Warren just shrugged and took her arm.
"You'll stay in my room," He said timidly and I blinked rapidly at what I saw.
Nangungulit ang team ko kung bakit daw ako nagdesisyon na ganoon, kung sigurado
ba raw ako. Even Engr. Silvano is annoyed for my decision but I keep on telling
them my side.
"Nothing's wrong, really. Dito ako nakatira dati and it happens that Engr.
Miranda is my friend and it's not a big deal!"
"Pero si Engr. Miranda iyon, ang super gwapong Engineer ng taon." Clarisse was
amazed.
"Kaso, Engr., diba married na?" She suddenly whispered. "Ano 'yon, pwede ba
'yon?"
"Sandali," I said, pinauna ang mga lalaki at hinila ang mga kaibigan ko.
"Bakit?" Joanna asked curiously and I answered them in a small voice.
"H'wag kayong maingay, okay?" I said and they all nodded at me.
 "Ako ang secret wife," I said in a small voice and I watched them as their
mouth parted exaggeratedly and I almost laugh when they believed me.
"Charot--" I was about to say when I felt a grip on my waist and a baritone
voice in my ear.
"That's supposed to be a secret, baby. Pinagkakalat mo na pala?" Natatawa pero
malambing na boses ang narinig ko at nanlaki ang mata ko.
I saw how my friend's jaw dropped when they heard that, halos magwala naman ang
puso ko at nag-init ang pisngi ng ang kamay nito sa baywang ko ay mas humigpit,
marahang humaplos sa tiyan ko.
"Engr. Miranda!" Clarisse exclaimed and looked at me, back to him. "T-Totoo po?
Secret ang..."
Pasimple kong kinurot si Vioxx para sirain ang ngisi n'ya pero pinisil n'ya
lang ang baywang ko kaya napaigtad ako.
"Guess my secret wife told you about our secret wedding, huh..." He said,
emphasizing the word secret.
"Uhm," I cleared my throat and tried pushing him away. "J-Joke lang--"
Sinubukan kong pagtakpan ang kasinungalingan ko nang marahang hinila ako ni Vioxx
kaya napasubsob ako sa dibdib n'ya.
"What the hell--" I pushed him but he pulled me back on his chest again.
"But can you keep this a secret first, ladies?" He asked in a baritone at gusto
ko mang makita ang reaksyon ng mga kasama ay hindi ako hinayaan ni Vioxx.
"S-Sure!"
"O-Opo, Engineer!" Nag-unahan pa sila sa pagsagot sa kanya at halos maging tuod
nalang ako.
"Thank you, ladies. Medyo maselan kasi itong misis ko sa ganyang usapan." I
noticed the amusement on his voice kaya malakas ko s'yang kinurot hanggang sa
mabitawan n'ya.
Tulala pa ang mga kaibigan ko at parang nakakita ng multo kaya dali-dali akong
nagsalita.
"G-Goodnight! P-Papahinga na kami." I said, hindi na inaantay ang sagot nila at
mabilis na hinila si Vioxx na nakangisi pa at kumakaway sa mga kaibigan ko.
"Bye, guys. Papahinga lang ang asawa ko!" He exclaimed like a kid, waving his
hand.
Kumakaway pa s'ya hanggang sa makalayo kami at nang mawala ang mga kaibigan ko
ay malakas ko s'yang sinuntok sa braso kaya napaigik s'ya.
"Ouch!" He whined. "Inaano kita?"
"Ano 'yong sinasabi mo 'dun?"
"Ah? You started it first, my wife." He smirked. "Kailan pala tayo kinasal?
Parang hindi ako invited 'nung kasal natin, ah?"
"Miranda!" I groaned.
"Yes, baby? Papalambing ka?" He said in amusement at nang makitang masama na
ang tingin ko sa kanya ay bigla s'yang kumaripas ng takbo kaya sumigaw ako at
hinabol s'ya.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 25

Omgggg! 5 more chaps to go for our daddy Rai and Sera!

Enjoy!
xxx
Kabanata 25
I laughed hard when he tripped in a stone and fell, nagmamadali s'yang tumayo
pero mabilis ko s'yang nahila. I pulled his hair and he screamed.
"Ouch, Sera! Fuck!" He cursed.
"Ikaw!" Kinurot ko ang tagiliran n'ya at natatawang lumayo s'ya sa akin, pilit
na hinuli ang kamay ko at ikinulong sa tagiliran n'ya.
 "Isa, Vioxx. Bitawan mo ko." Banta ko at sinamaan s'ya ng tingin.
His lips lifted for a smirk, his menacing dark eyes taunting me. Nakasalampak
s'ya sa buhanginan habang ako'y nakaluhod sa harapan n'ya at kinukulong ang mga
kamay ko.
"Vioxx!" Pinanlakihan ko s'ya ng mata.
"What now, huh..." He murmured.
"P-Pakawalan mo ko!" I demanded.
"Let me remind you kung sinong may atraso sa ating dalawa," He raised his brow.
"I didn't know I have a wife."
"J-Joke nga lang..." My cheeks flushed.
"Joke, huh? That's not a good thing to joke around, engineer. Take full
responsibility, pakasalan mo ako ngayon."
"What?!" I exclaimed.
"You're my secret wife--"
"Vioxx Ephraim Miranda." I said seriously and he stopped, I saw how his smile
faded when he saw my serious face.
He cleared his throat, staring at me seriously and cocked his head.
Nawala ang tapang ko nang makita ang seryosong mukha n'ya. My heart started
thumping hard when he stared at me seriously.
"You really treat my feelings as a joke," He murmured and I stopped.
"Hindi..."
He looked away, sighing and slowly removing my hand from his grip. I stared at
him, I felt something painful inside my chest when I saw his confuse face.
He stood from the sand, marahang hinawakan ang kamay ko at inangat mula sa
pagkakaupo.
Pinagpagan ko ang tuhod ko para maalis ang buhangin, he helped me removed the
dust on my dress and when he caught my eyes, I saw his blank eyes.
"Stop confusing me, Serafine." He whispered and turned his back on me.
Nanatili akong nakatitig sa kanya habang naglalakad s'ya palayo habang
nakapamulsa. My heart throbbed painfully at the sight of him walking away so I
immediately followed him.
Tinakbo ko ang pwesto n'ya at mabilis na humawak sa braso n'ya. He stopped,
glance at me before sighing. Hinayaan ako at hindi itinaboy.
We remained quiet while walking to our cottage, the white sand was on my feet,
bumabaon sa sandals na suot ko.
Ang lamig ng sariwang hangin ay dama ko sa may paa dahil suot ko ang jacket
n'ya. I heard the crickets, dinig ko ang pagaspas ng alon sa dalampasigan at ang
pagsayaw ng mga dahon sa hangin.
Nadaan pa namin ang cottage kung saan nakatambay ang team ni Vioxx, ang mga
kababaihan ay nanahimik nang dumaan kami.
"G-Good evening, Engr. Miranda!" They exclaimed when they saw us.
Vioxx lifted his gaze, nodding at them with a small smile on his face.
"Good evening," He said.

"Kwentuhan muna tayo, Engineer!" The lady in red, dark

lipstick said, raising a can of beer.
Tinawag din s'ya ng ibang mga engineers doon at bigla akong nahiya. Pakiramdam
ko ay ako ang pumipigil sa kanyang para sumali kaya nakagat ko ang labi at marahang
tinanggal ang kamay ko sa braso n'ya.
He shifted his gaze at me, his forehead creasing.
"Uhm, sige, mag-enjoy ka muna. M-Mauuna na ako sa cabana." I said and smiled.
I let go of him, akmang aalis na pero mabilis n'yang nahawakan ang braso ko
pabalik at hinapit ako.
Gulat akong napaharap sa kanya.
"B-Bakit?" I asked him, confused, kumakawala sa hawak n'ya. "You can have fun,
kaya ko naman mag-isa."
Hindi n'ya ako pinakawalan, sa halip ay bumaling sa natahimik na grupo at
sumagot.
"Thanks but I have to go with Engr. Mendez. She's tired." He said timidly.
"Huh? Hindi naman--"
"Enjoy your night, everyone." He nodded and took me with him, pilit pang
nilingon ang gulat n'yang grupo pero hindi n'ya akoa hinayaang makawala.
Pagkarating namin sa kanyang cabana ay doon n'ya lang ako pinakawalan at
diretsong pumasok sa loob.
I bit my lip and take a look around, tama nga ang sinabi ng mga tao kanina na
kaunti nalang ang natitirang pwedeng tulugan. The big resthouse and cabins are not
accesible for re-designing.
May maliit na balkonahe sa unahan bago ang pintuan ng kwarto kung nasaan
nakasabit ang isang duyan, sa bandang gilid ay makikita ang dagat na ngayon ay
madilim na.
I entered the room and saw it was really for one person, pagpasok ng pintuan ay
diretso na kaagad ang isang kama. Sa gilid ay may kawayang pahabang upuan at ang
banyo ay nasa may kaliwa, katabi ng maliit na kusina.
Uhm, saan ako matutulog nito?
I take a look again at the bed with its white sheets, may mga comforter din
doon na pwedeng ilagay sa lapag.
Sa gilid ng upuan ay naroon ang mga gamit ko, naupo ako sa kama at nakitang
naghuhubad na ng damit si Vioxx.
My eyes widen, mabilis akong nag-iwas ng tingin at nagsalita.
"D-Dito ka talaga naghuhubad?!" I exclaimed, pasimpleng sumilip ulit at
nakitang nakadukwang na s'ya sa kanyang travel bag, nakahubad na ng pantaas at
nakapatong sa balikat ang shirt.
"You've seen it all, Serafine. Ngayon ka pa mahihiya?" His voice was laced with
unknown sarcasm.
Tumikhim ako at kinagat ang labi ko.
"S-Sinasabi ko lang naman, tsaka ano, matagal na 'yong huli kita ko d'yan!
Nakalimutan ko na!" Hinarap ko na s'ya.
Tumayo s'ya mula sa pagkakadukwang, ipinatong ang itim na shirt sa upuan bago
ako nilingon.
"Uh-huh," He said, unbuckling his belt and my eyes widen, naeeskandalo.
"Vioxx!" I exclaimed, titig na titig sa gitna ng pantalon n'ya kung nasaan ang
mystic jungle.
"What?" His lip twitched.
"Eskandaloso ka?" I glared at him at napakurap, muling bumaling sa pants.
"Yeah, I'm scandalous? Guess who's staring at my pants now. You wanna recap,
baby?"
Napaubo ako at umiwas ng tingin, lumabi at humalukipkip.
"Ewan! Bahala ka, magshower ka na!" I hissed.
I heard his chuckle, narinig ko ang pagbagsak ng belt n'ya kaya mabilis akong
lumingon at nadismayang may pants pa s'ya.

"Disappointed?" He mocked.
"Anyway, saan ako matutulog?" I asked him.
"Sa lapag," Aniya at ngumuso sa comforter doon.
"Huh?" Pinanlakihan ko s'ya ng mata.
"What? You wanna share a cabin with me, Engineer. I'm the original tenant so
you..." He pointed the floor and smirked. "Will sleep on the floor."
Bago pa man ako makapagreklamo ay pumasok na s'ya ng banyo at inabahan ko lang
s'ya ng suntok sa inis bago s'ya nawala.
Ano pa bang magagawa ko?
I prepared the soft comforter and laid it on the floor, sinubukan kong humiga
at medyo komportable naman pero medyo malamig.
I sighed and closed my eyes.
Is it a good thing I ask to be with him while I stay here? Is it for good? Or I
was just looking for closure for what happened to our relationship years ago?
Napaupo ako ng lumabas s'ya.
He was fresh from the bath, basa pa ang buhok at ang twalya ay nasa ulo pa at
tinutuyo iyon. He was wearing his black shirt and boxers, nanliit pa ang mata ko ng
makitang black rin iyon.
Parang dapat medyo light para mas kita ang bakat-- What the hell, Serafine?
Pasimpleng sinampal ko ang sarili sa kahibangan.
"Stop it, Serafine." Seryoso n'yang sita.
"Huh?"
"Why are you hurting yourself? Take a shower and rest." He lectured.
Ngumuso ako at tumango, kinuha ang hinanda kong damit bago naglakad sa banyo. I
smelled his shower gel kaya nang makapasok ako sa banyo ay inamoy ko ang shower gel
roon hanggang sa makita ang ginamit n'ya.
I took a shower and wore a comfy satin night dress, pagkalabas ko ng kwarto ay
napansin kong dim light na ang nakabukas kaya sumilip ako at nakitang wala s'ya sa
kama.
"Where is he?" I whispered.
I walked towards the other side and was startled when I saw him on the floor,
resting on the sheets I prepared.
Lumapit ako sa kanya at bahagyang nag-squat para silipin s'ya at nakapikit na
nga.
"Bakit ka nand'yan?" I asked.
He almost jumped, napakurap ako nang mabilis s'yang nagmulat ng mata at
nilingon ako.
"You should rest, woman." He said, his tired and sleepy eyes stared at me.
"Bakit ka nasa lapag? Akala ko ba ako d'yan?" I asked.
His forehead creased, bumaling sa suot kong itim na night dress at muling
bumaling sa mukha ko.
"Don't you have any long dress or pajamas, woman? It's cold tapos ganyan lang
ang suot mo?"
I glanced at my dress, back to him.
"It's comfy," I said. "Don't mind me, alis na d'yan, tutulog na ako."
"You sleep on the bed," Aniya at nagkatitigan kami.
"Bakit? I thought..."
"I changed my mind, the bed isn't that comfortable so, you stay there." Aniya
at tinakpan ang mata ng braso.
"Weh? Syempre, mas komportable ang kama. Doon ka nalang--"
"Quiet, I'm sleepy." He yawned and hid his face kaya ngumuso nalang ako at
tahimik na umakyat sa kama.

For a moment, I keep on staring at the ceiling. Tahimik ang

paligid at tanging tunog lamang ng mga hayop ang naririnig.
I know I should not be comfortable staying with a man inside a room but why
being with him calms me? Bakit wala akong maramdamang takot?
Is it because I am still into him? Wait, kasasabi ko lang na nakamove-on na
ako, ah?
Pumikit ako ng mariin, nagbilang ng isang daang tupa pero hindi pa rin ako
makatulog kaya nagsalita ako.
"Engr., tulog ka na?" I asked out of the blue.
Nag-antay ako ng sagot pero wala kaya bumuntong-hininga ako.
"Maaga pa, h'wag ka muna matulog." But still none.
I sighed, bahagyang umikot at nagsalita.
"Vioxx," I called but no response. Gumulong ako sa kama, sinilip s'ya at
nanlaki ang mata nang matantong gising na gising s'ya.
Nagakagulatan pa kami nang magkatitigan at tumikhim s'ya at muling ibinalik ang
braso sa mata.
"Sleep now, Serafine." He murmured.
 "I can't." I whispered, nang mawalan s'ya ng imik ay inangat ko ang kamay ko at
kinalabit ang kamay n'yang nakatakip sa braso.
"Vioxx," I murmured.
"Sleep now, Sera." He said again and licked his lip. Hindi naman ako gumalaw
kaya nagmulat s'ya ng mata at tinitigan ako.
"What?"
"Uh, ako nalang sa lapag?" I offered him. His forehead creased at that.
"It's cold here,"
"Malamig pala, paano ka?"
"I'm fine," Aniya.
I pouted, muli s'yang kinalabit kaya napatingin s'ya sa akin.
"Ako nalang sa lapag, dito ka sa kama." I said and he shook his head again.
"H'wag makulit, Serafine, matulog ka na. Ayos lang ako."
"Hindi kasi ako makatulog dito sa kama, d'yan nalang ako sa lapag. Tutal naman
sanay akong matulog d'yan." I said.
"No,"
"Please?" Kinalabit ko s'ya at nangulit. "Please? Please?"
He opened his eyes, iritado akong tinignan pero umiling lang at tumayo sa
higaan.
I grinned, napaupo ako ng mabilis sa kama at pumalakpak.
"Yehey, thank you!" I said and jumped on his comforter.
He brushed his hair with his fingers, kinuha ang unan roon at binato sa akin
kaya nagtaka ako.
"Anong gagawin ko dito?"
"Put it on your back, medyo masakit sa likod." He said.
"Eh, paano ka?"
Hindi s'ya sumagot, tahimik na nahiga sa kama at nagtakip ng comforter at
tinalikuran ako.
I stared at the pillow and smiled, niyakap nalang sa halip na higaan at humiga
sa lapag.
Well, his place her is kinda uncomfortable, I think? Ayos naman pero ramdam ko
ang lamig sa may likuran ko kahit may kumot naman.
Maybe because we're near the beach and it's normally cold in here.
Narinig ko ang galaw ni Vioxx sa kama, kinagat ko naman ang labi ko at gustong
bumalik nalang sa kama.
I slowly lifted my face, sisilipin sana s'ya kung tulog na pero 'yon nalang ang
pagtigil ko nang pag-angat ko ay s'ya ring paglapit ng mukha n'ya, sisilip din ata.

My heart palpitated, marahas akong napalunok nang halos

magdikit na ang ilong namin. Our eyes met at napasinghap ako at pabagsak na humiga
pabalik sa unan.
"G-Gising ka pa pala!" I exclaimed.
He didn't even move, seryoso n'ya lang akong tinignan.
"Why?"
"Uh, malamig pala dito." I chuckled awkwardly. "Uh, pwede change ulit?"
He sighed, stood from the bed at kinuha ko sng unan at mabilis na naupo sa
kama.
"Sorry, naistorbo ba kita?" I asked.
"I'm alright," Naupo s'ya ulit sa lapag at nilingon ako. "Sleep, woman. Maaga
pa tayo bukas."
I nodded and smiled.
"Goodnight," I said and he nodded. Humiga naman ako sa kama at sinubukang
makatulog.
Fifteen minutes had passed and I almost pull my hair because I can't freaking
sleep!
Kung nilamig ako sa ibaba, paano naman si Vioxx?
I sighed, gumulong sa kama at sinilip s'ya at naabutan s'yang nakatakip ang
braso sa mga mata.
I lifted my hand, kinalabit s'ya ng dalawang beses at nakita ko ang pagtanggal
n'ya ng braso sa mata.
"What?" He said, almost frustatedly.
Ngumuso naman ako at nagsalita.
"M-Malamig d'yan."
"I know, kaya ko." Aniya.
I sighed, nakokonsensya sa kanya.
"Pero hindi komportable, paano kung magkasakit ka? Pulmonya or something--"
"Umusog ka." He commanded.
"Huh?"
"Move," Confused, I immediately rolled on the bed and left the side of it
empty.
"Nakausog na, bakit?" Tanong ko at napasinghap nang bigla s'yang naglagay ng
unan sa kama at biglang tumayo at humiga sa kama.
My eyes widen at napaupo ako.
"T-Tabi tayo?" I asked, halos magwala na ang puso
"You're uncomfortable there and okay, I am too. Magkakasakit ka o ako sa lapag
dahil sa lamig kaya magtatabi nalang tayo." Diretsong sabi n'ya at nanahimik lang
ako.
"May reklamo ka?" He asked and I immediately shook my head and gulped.
"W-Wala naman..." I said, diretsong humiga sa kama at tuwid na tuwid, nakabalot
pa ng comforter.
"Relax, Sera." I heard him chuckle kaya nilingon ko s'ya. "I won't do anything
to you, unless you insist--"
"Yabang mo!" Hinarap ko s'ya at sinimangutan. He chuckled and nodded at me.
"What? Wala naman akong magagawa kung gusto mong may gawin--"
"Miranda!" Sinipa ko s'ya at kinunutan noo. He laughed and moved his body,
tumagilid s'ya at pinagmasdan ako.
Tahimik kaming nagtitigan dalawa at nakita ko ang pagbasa n'ya ng labi at ang
pag-iwas ng tingin.
"If you're uncomfortable..." He took a pillow and place it in between us.
"A-Ayos lang," I said, removing the pillow between us and gave it back to him.
"I'm comfortable," I said and he looked at me, confused, then slowly nodded.
"Sleep now, baby girl. It's late, maaga pa bukas." Aniya.
"Baby girl ka d'yan, I'm a woman now!" I exclaimed and his lip twitched.

"Alright, woman. Sleep now, goodnight." He said.

"Goodnight," I answered. "Old, grumpy, ugly man."
His mouth parted, he glared at me and I giggled, tumalikod mula sa kanya at
ibinalot ang katawan sa comforter.
What a good night, Serafine. What a good night.
I woke up the next morning alone in the bed, umupo ako kaagad para tignan s'ya
sa paligid pero tahimik at ako nalang mag-isa.
I yawned, nag-unat bago sumulyap sa orasan.
It's just seven, ang aga naman umalis.
I stood, take a shower and wore comfy white shirt and leather pants. Nag-flat
sandals na rin dahil paniguradong lulubog lang ang paa sa buhangin.
Napatingin ako sa lamesa at doon lang napansing may pagkain na nakahain,
nagsusuklay palang ay naglakad ako palapit doon at nakitang may maliit na note.
I went to the site. Sorry, I didn't wake you up since you sleep good, may laway
ka pa nga sa gilid ng labi.
My eyes widen, ngumiwi habang nakatitig sa note at napailing.
"Laway! Huh, hindi ako naglalaway kapag tulog!" Reklamo ko, iritadong tinusok
ang hotdog ni Vioxx at gigil na kinagat.
Na-clear ata ang lungs ko sa bango ng sariwang hangin ng isla, pollution is
gone. Sa halip na busina ng mga sasakyan ay mas nakakahalina ang pagaspas ng alon
at ang tunog at huni ng mga ibon.
I smiled at the refreshing site, gusto kong gumala sa isla kapag may libreng
oras. I wanna check the shipwreck too but sabi kasi nila ay limited lang ang
pinapayagan.
Maingay na sa site pagkarating ko palang, nagsisimula na ang renovation at busy
na ang mga tao.
Kaagad na kumaway sina Clarisse nang makita ako kaya naglakad ako patungo sa
kanila.
"Morning, Engineer!" They greeted.
"Good morning," I smiled, looking around. "Kanina pa kayo?"
"Kakarating lang din, ang nauna po 'yong team ni Engr. Miranda." Aniya at
tinuro ang team ni Vioxx sa hindi kalayuan.
He was talking to the same woman yesterday. The beautiful lady is wearing a
shirt and pants to, sa ulo ay may kulay puting hard hat kagaya n'ya.
"Close po ba sila ni Architect Sandejas?" Napalingon ako kay Clarisse.
"Si Architect Scira Valderama," Turo ni Jade. "Ang mother n'ya is a Sandejas
while her father's a Valderama. Nalaman ko lang whole name kahapon kasi na-kwento
nga ni Engr. Silvano."
I nodded, kumunot ang noo nang habang nakatingin sa blueprint ay may sinabi ang
babae at nagtawanan sila.
"Pangatlo ata 'yan sa magkakapatid, kaparehas ng pangalan n'ya 'yong bunso.
Queen Scira naman pangalan." Dagdag n'ya. "Low profile lang sila pero mayayaman--"
"Magtrabaho na tayo," Putol ko sa sinasabi n'ya kaya natahimik sila.
Kumunot ang noo ko at nakatitig doon sa kanila.
I even saw the bellboy, Warren on his hard hat. Nakasimangot at iritado doon sa
gilid.
"Sera," Nagulat ako ng lumitaw si Engr. Silvano habang hawak ang kulay puting
hard hat.
"Engr. Silvano," I called.
"Mark nalang," He said, putting the hard hat on my head. "Masyado kang pormal."
"Sorry, I just..."
"It's alright," He smiled and tapped my chin. "How's your sleep?"
"Uh...good." Bahagya akong lumayo nang maramdaman ang pagkailang.

Aalis na sana ako pero nahawakan n'ya ang braso ko.

"My room is quite big, Sera. Sabi ko naman sa'yong kasya tayo doon. You can
sleep on the bed, h'wag ka nang makisama doon sa Engr. Miranda at mukhang hindi
mapagkakatiwalaan."
"I'm really fine, Engr." I smiled. "Ayos lang talaga," Bahagya akong lumayo pa.
I became uncomfortable when he insisted on staying with him, napalingon ako sa
pwesto ni Vioxx at kita ko ang seryoso n'yang tingin.
Nagsasalita si Architect Valderama sa kanyang gilid pero wala ata roon ang
atensyon n'ya. He was serious, his dark eyes at us. Kunot pa ang noo roon.
"Do you wanna take a dip later? Masarap daw lumangoy kapag pa-hapon na." Kwento
pa sa akin nito.
"Uh, kapag hindi pagod." I smiled at him.
"How about dinner, Sera? I can reserve a table for us d'yan sa resto--"
"I believe she's having her dinner with me," Isang hawak sa baywang ko at
marahang hila ay naramdaman ko ang pagluwang ng dibdib.
I saw Vioxx glancing at him seriously, hawak ang baywang ko.
"Oh, ganoon ba?" I noticed the disappointment on his face.
"Sorry, Engineer. Nakapangako na ako, next time na lang."
"Alright," He nodded. "How about tomorrow?"
"I reserved all her dinners," Prenteng sabi ni Vioxx kaya nanlaki ang mata ko
roon at pasimple s'yang kinurot pero tumaas lang ang sulok ng labi n'ya.
"Lunch?"
"Ang lunch too, same with breakfast." Sabat pa nitong pabibong engineer at
halos mapa-facepalm na ako.
"That's too bad," Engr. Silvano then sighed and nodded, glancing at me. "Next
time, then."
"Okay," Ngiti ko. "Sorry, next time nalang."
He nodded, nagpaalam at bumalik sa trabaho. Nang makaalis s'ya ay ang simangot
ni Vioxx ang bumungad sa akin.
"Ano nanaman?" I murmured.
"Ang dami mong lalaki, Serafine." Iritadong sabi n'ya, kinalas ang hard hat ko
bago muling binalik sa ulo ko.
"Bakit mo tinanggal? At maraming lalaki?" I asked.
"Ako lang pwedeng maglagay nito sa'yo," Inayos n'ya ang buhok ko at ang hard
hat. "Huh, who's that Engr. Silvano? Christian, Gino, Marco, Intoy...sino pa?"
"What? Marco is my cousin!" Kinaltukan ko s'ya kahit may hard hat s'ya.
"Christian and Gino are my ex-friends! Tsaka Intoy, paano mo nakilala 'yon?"
Ngumiwi s'ya at hindi ako sinagot.
"Vioxx," I called.
"Your breakfast, lunch and dinners are reserved for me." He muttered.
"Couple goals!" Sabay kaming napalingon ni Vioxx at napasimangot ako nang
makita sina Clarisse sa gilid, tila sinisilihan sa kilig.
"Hi, ladies." Vioxx greeted at nagsi-iritan nanaman sila.
"Kumusta kagabi, secret couple?" Joanna giggled.
"Great," He grinned. Pinalo ko ang braso n'ya at nilingon ang mga kaibigan ko.
"Wala 'yon," I said and glared at Vioxx. "H'wag ka ngang magkalat ng fake
news!"
He smirked, lumingon sa mga kaibigan ko at inilagay ang daliri da gitna ng
labi.
"Sshh, top secret, ladies. My wife's sensitive, baka nga buntis na 'to--"

"Miranda!" Tinalon ko ang bibig n'ya para takpan at natawa

s'ya, tinanggal ang kamay ko sa bibig n'ya at kumindat.
We spent our time working, naging busy ako sa pagsupervise ng team habang si
Vioxx kasama ang ibang architects ay nag-uusap.
Hindi naman boring dahil maganda at hindi mainit sa lugar, fresh din ang hangin
at may kausap din akong ibang engineers sa site.
They were managing the materials needed, the workers are busy for the first
round of renovation.
Kaya siguro marami silang kinuha ay para mabilis matapos ang renovation. I
visioned the look of the place once the renovation is done and no doubt, this will
look much more beautiful.
"Ilang taon ka ng engineer?" My newly found acquaintance, Engr. Cabral asked.
He's an electrical engineer, habang mag-isa kasi ako ay kinausap n'ya ako.
He's a good speaker, I can see. Mukha ring mabait at mapagkakagaanan ng loob.
"Hmm, turning three years na rin." I smiled. "You?"
"Five years," He chuckled. "I'm a bit old, I guess?"
"Kaunti lang naman," I chuckled. "You don't look old to me, sa team ka ni Engr.
Miranda, right?"
"Yup," He nodded. "When I found out years ago na umalis s'ya sa main at may
sariling kompanya, I immediately resigned and went to his company."
"Really? Bakit naman? Hindi ba mas advantage kapag sa main kayo?" I asked,
curiously.
"Yes, but what I consider the most is the treatment." He said. "Hindi man
masyadong malaki ang sahod kumpara doon sa main, mas gusto ko at ng mga dating
engineer ang trato."
"Hmm," I nodded.
"Mas malaya kasi gumalaw sa kompanya ni Engr. Miranda, he isn't that strict and
we have benefits, he never prohibits us to take other projects if we have none as
of the moment. Hindi kagaya sa main."
 Nagulat man ay tumango ako, sumulyap kung saan at nakitang seryoso si Vioxx,
mukhang katatapos lang ng usapan nila ng team.
Lumapit s'ya sa may amin, mukhang iritado at patingin-tingin sa tabi ko pero
ngumuso lang ako sa kanya at hindi s'ya pinagtuunan.
"Marami kayong lumipat?"
"Hmm," He nodded. "Ayaw pa nga kami tanggapin noong una kasi hindi pa raw
ganoon kalaki ang sweldo at mas maganda ang benefits ng main pero ayaw namin.
Nangulit talaga kami hanggang nakapasok na kami sa kompanya."
That made me smile, sumulyap sa mukhang constipated na si Vioxx.
Kasalaukuyang kausap ni Warren pero kunot ang noo at nagsusuplado nanaman,
inirapan pa ako nang magkatinginan.
Arte naman nito, ikaw lang pinag-uusapan namin!
Nang may tinanong sa akin ang worker ay nagpaalam ako paalis sa kanya para
puntahan sila.
They asked me some things regarding the plans, nasabi na rin sa kanila ng
architect ang plano pero may clarification silang hiningi.
"Salamat, Engineer!" They said.
I smiled and nodded, nakita kong paparating si Engr. Silvano na inabutan ako ng
buko juice.
"Thanks," I smiled. Ininom ang juice at nang maubos ay tinapon bago bumalik.
Engr. Silvano talked about some things which I answered, some are about the
plans pero kadalasan ay tungkol sa paglipat ko nalang sa cabin n'ya.
"Engineer!"

"Ma'am!" Gulat akong nag-angat ng tingin sa komosyon at

natigilan nang makita ang kahoy na nawala sa balanse.
I was startled, lalo na nang mawala rin sa pundasyon ang bakal na inaayos nila.
Sa bilis ng pangyayari ay hindi ko na namalayan na may humatak sa akin. Nakita
ko nalang ang sariling nakahiga sa buhanginan at sa ibabaw ko ay si Vioxx.
It happens too fast, sa pagtayo ni Vioxx mula sa ibabaw ko at nakatayo ako ay
mabilis akong nilapitan ng team ko at inasikaso.
"Engineer! Ayos ka lang?!" The panicking Jade asked, they even checked if I
have wounds. Maging sina Engr. Silvano ay naroon, pilit akong pinapapunta sa medic
pero ang mata ko'y nakatuon lang sa bakal na nasa gilid.
Kalat iyon doon at halatang hinawi.
"Ayos ka lang, Engineer?" Clarisse asked.
"Yeah," I murmured.
"Naku! Mabuti nalang at nahila ka kaagad ni Engr. Miranda! Kung hindi n'ya
nahawi 'yong mga bakal baka nahulugan ka!" They were in panic.
Nanatili akong nakatitig doon sa mga bakal sa buhangin at halos manlamig nang
makita ang bakas ng dugo roon.
Hindi ko na sila pinagtuunan ng pansin, hinanap ng mata ko si Vioxx pero wala
s'ya.
"S-Si Vioxx?" I asked them.
"Po?" Hinanap din nila sa paligid.
"Nandito lang kanina, biglang nawala!" They said.
I gulped, kinabahan ako at lumayo sa kanila. I asked them where the emergency
kit is at nang ituro ay dali-dali ko iyong kinuha at hinanap si Vioxx.
He was nowhere to be found, I was frustated, knowing he was wounded somewhere
and bleeding!
I noticed footsteps near me, kaagad ko iyong sinundan at napabuntong-hininga
nang sa hindi kalayuan ay matanaw ko si Vioxx.
He was sitting on the shore, sa tahimik na paligid na tanging paghampas ng alon
lang ang maririnig ay kita kong pilit n'yang pagtatakip ng sugat gamit ang panyo.
I rolled my eyes, iritadong nagmartsa palapit sa kanya at nang marating ang
pwesto n'ya ay mabilis s'yang binatukan.
"What--" Nilingon n'ya ako at nang makita kung sino ay suplado s'yang nag-iwas
ng tingin at mas binilisan ang pagtakip sa kamay n'ya.
"Anong ginagawa mo?" I scoffed.
Tumikhim s'ya, nang maupo ako sa tabi n'ya at inagaw ang kamay n'ya ay inilayo
n'ya iyon sa akin.
"I'm alright," He said timidly.
"Give me your hand," I demanded.
He shook his head, muling itinago ang kamay sa akin.
"I'm alright," Ulit n'ya.
"Huh?" I mocked, annoyed.
"I'm--"
"Hotdog mo, Miranda." Iritado kong sabi at hinila ang kamay n'ya.
"What?" He asked, confused. Tinignan ko ang kamay n'ya at marahang tinanggal
ang panyo. "Anong hotdog ko?"
"Wala!" I scolded, nang makitang may sugat nga sa palad n'ya ay pinitik ko ang
kanyang noo.
"Aww, what?" Reklamo n'ya.
"Anong iniisip mo? Bakit ka pumunta doon at basta nang tinulak 'yong bakal at
kahoy? Paano kung hindi lang ito ang sugat mo?" Pagalit ko.
"Engr. Cabral, huh?" He mocked.
"Ano nanaman bang drama mo?" I hissed.
"Tss..." He tsk-ed, looking away. "Bakit mo pa ako sinundan, mukhang nag-eenjoy
ka naman."
"Seryoso ka ba?" I glared at him. "You are here, injured, yet iyan pa ang
iniisip mo?"
"You shoud not follow me, I am fine. You can just talk to your engineers there
and forget about me. Ayos lang naman na mamatay ako dito sa sobrang daming dugo--
aww!"
Sa irita ko ay hinila ko ang buhok n'ya at napadaing s'ya.
"Serafine!"
"H'wag kang OA, hindi ka mamatay sa sugat na 'to. Malayo 'to sa puso, Miranda."
"Oh, edi magpapakalunod nalang ako doon." He said childishly, pointing the
ocean infront of us.
Napailing nalang ako, binuksan ang kit at marahang nilinisan ang sugat n'ya.
"Anong pinag-uusapan n'yo ni Engr. Cabral? Is it too funny you have to smile
sweetly like that? May pa-buko pa 'yong Engr. Silvano mo." He muttered.
Hindi ko alam kung bakit natawa ako sa kanya, nandito s'ya, may sugat na lahat
pero mas iniisip pa ang kausap ko.
"Seryoso ka n'yan, Vioxx? Baka mamaya n'yan hindi ka pa pala nakakamove-on sa
akin?" I chuckled.
Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"Bakit? Mas masaya ba silang kausap? Ano, doon ka na matutulog mamaya, ano
lapitin ka ba talaga ng mga hinayupak na engineer--"
"Sa'yo lang naman ako lapitin," I said.
He stopped.
I pinched his cheek and his nose just wrinkled at me.
His serious brown eyes are cold yet menacing, his wicked thin lips is in a grim
line, nagsusungit nanaman. His brows almost met, his clenched jaw made him look
manly and kissable in my sight.
"Mas gwapo ka pa rin sa kanila, daddy." I muttered and his mouth parted a bit
and blushed.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 26

Hello! How are you?

I can't believe we're on our last four chapters!
 xxx
Kabanata 26
I watched the waves as it wash upon the shore, taking a few white sands with it
then back again.
Ang langit ay nag-aagaw ng kahel at dilaw sa kalangitan dahil sa papalubog na
araw.
I glanced at him and saw him staring quietly on the view, tila walang pakialam
sa paligid dahil sa lalim ng naiisip.
I bit my lip, I took a glance on his hand and slowly took it with me, dahilan
kaya napalingon s'ya sa akin.
"Linisin natin ulit mamaya," I said, referring to his hand.
Nagtagal ang tingin n'ya sa kamay n'yang hawak ko bago unti-unting tumango sa
akin. He didn't pull his hand, hinayaan akong hawakan iyon.
"L-Lulubog na ang araw, you think they were looking for us?" I asked.
"No," He said, muling sumulyap sa kamay kong nasa daliri n'ya at bumaling sa
tanawin.
"There were a lot of engineers there, Warren is there too."
"Warren," I murmured, nabigla naman ako sa biglang paglingon n'ya sa akin doon.
His forehead creased, ang kaninang relax na mukha ay iritado nanaman ngayon,
nagsalubong ang kilay sa akin.
"What?" I asked when I noticed his face.
"Bakit? Crush mo?" He spatted.
Bigla akong natawa, his face fell more. Mas pumirmi ang labi n'ya, halatang
ilang tulak pa ay galit nanaman kaya pinisil ko ang ilong n'ya at bahagya s'yang
itinulak.
"Crazy," I shook my head. "I was just about to ask. Bellboy si Warren, di ba?
How he is here? He's wearing a white hard hat earlier! Don't tell me he's a
nobody."
"Wala 'yon," Ngiwi n'ya. "Wala nang hard hat kaya ayon ang sinuot."
"Weh?" Nanliit ang mata ko. "Madami pa kaya, I've seen it!"
"Why are you interested, anyway? Crush mo 'yon? Hindi naman ka-gwapuhan."
Reklamo n'ya at nag-iwas ng tingin.
I chuckled, umiling ako.
"Ano nga, Engineer?" I asked.
"What did you call me?" Seryoso n'yang tanong.
"Uh, Engineer?" I said.
His lips protruded, he licked his lip, brushinh his hair with his uninjured
hand.
"Makatawag ng daddy tapos hindi paninindigan," He whispered.
I smiled wickedly, nang makitang pinalobo n'ya ang bibig ay natatawang tinusok
ko iyon kaya naglikha ng ingay.
He glared at me, napailing ako at bahagyang sumandal sa kanya.
"So...who is Warren, daddy?" I asked.
I felt how his body stiffened. Napangisi ako, at nagtanong.
"Kasi sabi 'nung nakaraan bellboy tapos--"
"Say it again," He demanded, hinarap ko s'ya at nagtaka.
"Si Warren kamo, bellboy--"
"No, call me that again." He was too eager.
"Uhm, Engineer?"
"Serafine..." He warned, natawa ako at kinagat ang labi at tumitig sa kanya.
"Hmm, daddy?" I said softly. He closed his eyes, his jaw clenched.

Napalakas ang tawa ko nanh mamula nanaman ang pisngi n'ya.

"Fuck," He cursed and looked away.
"You're blushing again, daddy!" I giggled. "Kagaya kanina pero natulala ka lang
naman."
I shrugged, remembering how I called him daddy earlier and he blushed. Walang
sinabi at halos maging kamatis na sa pamumula, even his ears are red! Wala pa
kaming imikan 'nun, nahiya rin kasi ako sa nasabi.
"So, as I was saying...Who's Warren?"
"And that ladies and gentleman is how you kill the atmosphere," He muttered.
I laughed, hindi makapaniwalang sumulyap sa kanya.
"I was just asking about Warren!" I exclaimed. "I am not killing the vibe."
"He's my cousin." Aniya.
My eyes widen.
"W-Weh? Eh, bakit...di ba bellboy?"
Tumikhim s'ya, hindi ako sinagot. I saw how he gulped.
"Bakit sabi bellboy?" I was confused. "He even brought flowers!"
"Flowers?" He eyed me, tinitigan ko rin s'ya hanggang sa bigla s'yang
natigilan, tumikhim at tumango.
"What?" I asked.
"What flowers? I don't know." Maang n'yang tanong. "He's a bellboy just for
sideline, p-para may pang-date sila 'nung crush n'ya."
I stared at him and notice his uneasiness, nanliit ang mata ko.
"Oh, feeling ko hindi galing sa management." I said. "I should ask him."
"It's from the management," He insisted.
"Oh? I don't think so." Kunwari ko. "I think it's from Jeremy."
"Who the fuck--" He was quickly violent.
"Manliligaw ko--"
"It's from the fucking management, Serafine!" His voice groaned.
"Oh, I don't think so, hindi ka rin sure--"
"It's from me!" He hissed and I stopped. Nakita kong natigilan s'ya at kumunot
ang noo.
"Damn it, I'm fucking giving myself away." He hissed.
I felt like my stomach churned, my heart thumped hard at what he said.
"P-Paanong..."
"I gave it because you're coming back, okay? Inutusan ko si Warren para doon,
hell, I'd be the one giving it to you. Atleast I'm saving myself--"
"Actually, Jeremy isn't existing." I smirked.
His face fell, his mouth parted a bit as he glared at me.
I laughed, natatawang tumayo at mabilis na kinuha ang medicine kit.
"Huli ka, daddy!" I giggled, napasinghap pa nang tumayo s'ya bigla sa buhangin.
He sprinted and I screamed, natatawang tumakbo palayo sa kanya.
"Comeback here, you woman!" He exclaimed.
I laughed, nililingon s'ya at hindi nakatingin sa nilalakaran kaya hindi
napansin ang nakasalubong.
Tumama ako sa kung sino pero mabilis nitong naagapan ang baywang ko kaya nag-
angat ako ng tingin.
I saw Engr. Cabral infront of me, gulat din sa paglitaw ko.
"Are you alright?" He asked.
"Y-Yes, thanks." I said, nahihiya sa nangyari. I took a step back from him,
nilingon si Vioxx na nasa tabi ko na at kaagad na humawak sa baywang ko.

I glanced at him and saw his serious face.

"Engr. Miranda." He greeted. "Ayos ka na?" He asked, glancing at his hand.
Hindi pa man nakakasagot ito ay lumitaw iyong isang engineer na babae mula sa
team ni Vioxx.
The girl with red lipstick came, her mouth parting when he noticed his hand.
"Engineer!" She exclaimed, gulat akong sumulyap nang abutin n'ya ang kamay ni
Vioxx at suriin.
"What happened?" She exclaimed. "Tara, linisin natin--"
"I am done cleaning it," I said.
She stopped but did not even glance at me, muli n'yang sinuri ang kamay ni
Vioxx.
 "Engineer--"
"I'm fine, Engr. Lim." He said but the woman is persistent. Nangunot ang noo ko
roon.
I saw Vioxx glanced at me, his face soften a bit when he saw my annoyed face.
"Pero mas magandang tignan ulit, I had first hand experience for wounds like
that."
Tumikhim ako at naramdaman ang mas paghawak nito sa baywang ko.
"Thanks, Engr. but my girlfriend already took care of it." He said.
Pumilantik ang lintek kong puso, bago pa man ako makapagreklamo ay hinawakan
n'ya ako at inalalayan paalis.
We were both quiet as we walked away from them, nasalubong ko pa ang team na
kinuha sa akin ang medicine kit, hindi na nag-usisa, marahil ay dama ang
pagkatahimik.
Tila may utak na nagtungo kami sa cabin at sabay na humarap sa isa't-isa.
"Sorry--"
"Okay lang--"
Natigilan kami bigla, sabay na nag-iwas ng tingin at ako na ang naunang
nagsalita.
"A-Ayos lang, uh, bihis ka muna, dinner tayo." I said.
He nodded, pinagbuksan ako ng pinto at nauna nang maligo.
I was so confused, nakaupo ako sa kawayang sofa at nakatitig sa kung saan,
iniisip ang nangyari.
Pagkalabas n'ya ay nakabihis na s'ya ng simpleng puting shirt at khaki pants,
walang-imik akong nagtungo sa banyo para maligo.
I wore a simple white shirt top and high-waisted shorts. Sa paglabas ko ay wala
s'ya sa kwarto kaya nag-blow dry muna ako. When I'm done, lumabas ako at naabutan
s'yang naroon sa labas malapit sa duyan. Nakapatong ang braso sa kawayan at
nakadukwang, may kausap sa phone.
"Yes, mom." I heard him say.
"I don't know, I have a lot to do for this project. Yes." He said, his voice
cold.
"Next time, maybe." Naglakad ako palapit sa kanya nang mapansin n'ya iyon ay
bumaling s'ya sa akin.
He lifted his hands a bit, nagtataka man ay lumapit ako sa kanya at marahang
pinirmi n'ya ang balikat ko pagkatapat ko.
He glanced at my clothes, humming as he listened to someone on his phone.
He lifted his hand, put the hand on my cheek to remove the strands of my hair
behind my ear.
"Yes, okay, bye." He said. Nang ibaba n'ya ang phone ay pinagmasdan n'ya ulit
ang damit ko.
"Aren't you cold?" He asked.
"No, I like the fresh air here." I said, he nodded, humawak sa balikat ko bago
ako marahang alalayan palakad.
Our teams and the works got their foods served to them by the management habang
kami ay dumiretso sa resto para kumain.

He lifted a chair for me and I thanked hin before he

settled beside me. The restaurant is open, kahit narito sa loob ay damang-dama ang
hangin at ang pagaspas ng mga alon sa dalampasigan.
My chest felt lighter while staring at the view, Vioxx ordered the usual.
Habang nag-aantay naman ay tinuro ko ang labas sa kanya.
"This island is yours and cousin's, right?" I asked.
He nodded, glancing at me.
"Yeah, Lucian found this island when it's on sale, may nakakuhang kompanya na
balak atang gawing resort dito. Lucian asked to buy it from them and asked help
from us. We paid twice or thrice the price." He said.
I was startled, umawang pa ang labi ko sa gulat roon.
 "We coudn't afford seeing them ruin this island, I will tour you around when
it's our free time. May shipwreck doon sa kabilang parte, we did our best not to
touch it, may mga turista kaming hinahayaang mag-tour but with restrictions."
Paliwanag n'ya.
I was amazed, na-eexcite sa sinasabi n'yang pag-iikot namin.
The food was served, napangiti pa nang makitang nag-order din s'ya ng wine para
sa amin.
Kami lang ang tao rito sa resto at ang iilang crew, our teams are eating
outside.
I muttered a short prayer and ate, tahimik lang kaming dalawa noong una pero
nahuhuli ko ang tingin n'ya kaya natawa ako.
"Come on, you wanna say something?" I asked.
He licked his lower lip, his dark eyes gaze at me deeply.
"Just..." He lifted his hand and cleaned something under my lips. Nahiya ako
bigla roon at nakagat ang labi.
"Thank you," I muttered.
He nodded, sipping on his wine as he glance at me.
"How's Migs?" He suddenly asked.
I smiled, remembering my brother. Nakausap ko pa 'yon kanina sa text at mukhang
ayos naman sila ni Tita.
"He's with Tita Asunta in Sta. Monica," I said. "Migs is a grown-up now, well,
he's doing good in school."
"Hmm," He hummed. "I wanna see him but..."
"Why not?" I asked him curiously, "He also wants to see you, alam mo namang
idol na idol ka ng batang 'yon." I chuckled.
He stared at me, sipping on his wine glass with his thin lips.
"Can...I go to Sta. Monica, then?" He asked. I swiftly nodded, naghiwa ng karne
at kinain.
"Okay, no worries. May magagandang lugar din doon, I thought you'd like it
there." I said.
He nodded, a small smile on his face. Nang makitang nahirapan akong buksan ang
shell ng alimango ay kinuha n'ya iyon sa akin.
"Well, it's hard at first, lalo na at wala ang Tatay. Madalas naman akong
kumayod dati pa pero nakakapanibango. I took care of Migs, si Nanay ay ayaw
sumama."
"Aren't you two communicating?" He asked, nagbabalat naman ng hipon at inilagay
sa pinggan ko.
"We are...sometimes." I murmured, tinusok ko ang hipon at kinain.
She only calls me when she needed money, I wonder if she even miss us, o kahit
si Miggy lang.
"Hindi sumama sa Sta. Monica?"
"No," I said, noticing him putting foods on my plate but he isn't eating that
much.
Tila wala lang na babalatan ako at hindi s'ya nakakakain.

"Wait, marami na akong ulam. Kumain ka." I said.

"I'm fine," He said. "Just eat."
"Balak ko bisitahin s'ya pagbalik natin, pupuntahan ko rin ang puntod ni
Tatay." I said, tumusok ulit ng hipon at inilapit sa bibig n'ya.
Nagulat pa s'ya roon kaya napaatras s'ya, nagtataka sa akin.
"Come on, eat. You keep on feeding me, let me feed you too." I smiled.
He blinked, I saw how his eyes fell on the fork I am holding. Isang hawak sa
pulsuhan ko ay inilapit n'ya sa bibig ang tinidor.
He opened his mouth slowly and my cheeks flushed when I found him sexy eating
like that.
Halos manuyo ang lalamunan ko at hindi pa kaagad nailayo ang tinidor.
"Uh...well." I said, sipping on my wine to calm myself.
 "Uh, ang mga pinsan mo?" I suddenly ask to forget I am giggling over him.
"What?" He asked, ako naman ang sinubuan kaya lumapit ako at kinain.
"Hmm, I've seen Cas and Warrion, si Wave nasa Maynila kasama ang asawa pero
hindi ko nakikita si Lucian?"
He stopped, I saw how his lips firmed.
"Crush mo?" He hissed.
"Baliw!" Sinipa ko ang paa n'ya nang ngumiwi s'ya. Iritadong nag-iwas ng tingin
kaya humagikhik ako.
"Seloso ka kamo, daddy." I said, napanguso s'ya roon pero pilit na nagseryoso.
Lumagok pa ng wine at hindi ako pinansin.
"I was just asking, tsaka, bakit ba ang seloso mo? Hindi ka makamove-on sa akin
'no?" I teased.
"I am not jealous," Aniya, bahagyang inikot pa ang hawak na wine glass,
bahagyang hinahalo ang wine.
"Weh?" Sumilip ako sa kanya at nang mahuling nakasimangot ay nginisihan ko.
"Weeeh?" I teased.
"If I'm jealous, kanina ko pa pinapak 'yang labi mo, Serafine." He hissed.
Nanlaki ang mata ko, his nose wrinkled and sighed.
"And I know I'm more handsome. He isn't a threat at all." He muttered.
I laughed, kumalabog ang puso ko habang pinagmamasdan s'ya.
"Oo nga," I said and he slowly looked at me. "Mas gwapo ka sa lahat-lahat,
bakit ka magseselos?"
Natulala s'ya sa akin, nangingisi ako pero itinago nang mahuling mukha s'yang
nawawalang bata at nalilito.
"R-Really?" He suddenly whispered.
Lumaki ang ngisi ko, napasimangot s'ya at supladong umirap.
"Stop playing with my feelings!" He hissed and I chuckled at that. "My fucking
heart's beating fucking fast!"
"Do I look like I'm kidding?" I asked, amused. "I know you're old na and my
daddy but you act like a kid sometimes."
Tumaas ang sulok ng labi n'ya, inis nanaman sa akin.
"Pinaglalaruan mo lang ako," He said dramatically.
"I am not! Para kang bata!" Tawa ko.
"Parang bata, my ass." He glared at me. "Ganyan ka kasi alam mong patay na
patay ako sa'yo!" Bintang n'ya.
Parang nag-somersault ang puso ko roon at hindi mapakali pero ang gaan-gaan ng
puso ko.
I can't remember when is the last time I am this damn happy!

"T-Talaga?" I said softly, in a womanly voice.

Kunot-noo n'ya akong hinarap at maang na natawa.
"And now you're seducing me!" He pointed me like a did a crime. "You're such a
playgirl!"
Tuwang-tuwa ako sa kanya, panay ang bintang n'ya sa pang-aakit ko sa kanya na
wala namang katotohanan!
"I am not! Bakit ka nambibintang, huh? Engineer!" I growled.
"Wow, where's the daddy now, huh? Gustong-gusto mo talaga akong pinaglalaruan
'no?" Turo n'ya pa habang nagdidiskusyon kami sa daan.
"Excuse me, Miranda!"
"Daan na," He sarcastically motioned the path kaya tinaasan ko s'ya ng kilay.
"Inaasar mo ba ako, minatamis na gurang?" I tried pissing him off.
"You little--"
"Uhm...hello po?" Halos mawalan pa ako ng balanse nang makasalubong ang team
n'ya at team ko.
Gulat na nakatingin sa aming dalawa, ako na nakapamaywang sa kanya at si Vioxx
na nakahalukipkip sa akin at nakasimangot.
Napaayos ako ng tayo at awkward na humarap sa kanila.
 "Uhm...hello?" I said and chuckled.
"Hindi kayo nakasama sa dinner, Engineer?" Jade said with her teasing smile.
"M-May pinag-usapan lang kami tungkol sa trabaho kaya hindi nakasabay--"
"Sorry, we had our date." Vioxx said.
Nilingon ko s'yang nanlalaki ang mata, hinarap n'ya ako, ang mga mata'y
nagbabanta na kapag may sinabi akong kung ano ay yari ako.
Some men whistled, ang team ko ay kinikilig at nakita ko ang titig ni Engr.
Silvano na seryoso. That woman in her red lipstick even gave me an annoyed face
kaya napatikhim ako at umayos ng tayo.
"Well, yeah. Ang kulit kasi nito." I pointed Vioxx na nakalapit na pala sa
akin.
Vioxx eyed me, confused. Nang sumulyap ako sa team na tulala at doon sa babaeng
kunot ang noo ay humagikhik pa ako.
"Alam nyo na, sobrang mapilit na maka-date ako kaya binagbigyan ko na, ultimate
wish n'ya kasi." Hinampas ko ang dibdib ni Vioxx at humagikhik.
Umawang ang labi ng ilan, napaubo si Vioxx sa tabi ko kaya ang kamay kong
humahampas sa kanyang dibdib ay bumagal at natauhan bigla.
It was the most awkward silence ever, hindi makapaniwala ang mukha ng team ko
at ng kanya.
Napalunok ako at napaayos ng tayo.
"I...uhm..." I murmured.
He must have sense my awkwardness, kaagad na humawak sa baywang ko si Vioxx at
bumaling sa mga kasama.
"Yeah," He cleared his throat, nakita kong natatawa pero pilit na nagseseryoso.

"It's my dream to date her, I mean, who wouldn't like to date her? Engr. Mendez
is beautiful and flawless...so perfect." He muttered, hiding his smirk, his eyes
are teasing me.
I bit my lip harder this time, kinurot ko na ang likod n'ya pero hindi manlang
s'ya papatinag.
"Right?" Baling n'ya sa kasamahan na dali-daling napatango.
"Yes!" The boys agreed.
"O-Oo nga naman." Ani nila Jade at sinuko pa ang ibang tulala pa rin para um-
oo.
"Y-Yeah..." They nodded.
Shit! Kung pwede lang kainin ng lupa!
"So, excuse us for tonight. My date's tired, good night." He smiled, touched my
waist and slowly assisted me away from the crowd.

Tahimik kaming naglalakad, s'ya hawak ang baywang ko at

ako'y mahigpit ang hawak sa shirt n'ya.
Parang tuod lang ata akong naglalakad hanggang sa makalayo at humagalpak s'ya
ng tawa. I suddenly screamed exaggeratedly, ang halakhak ni Vioxx ay walang
katulad.
"Shit! Nakakahiya!" I screamed.
He was laughing hard, nagbibiro ko s'yang sinakal at namumula ang mukha n'ya
kakatawa. His shoulders are moving with his bark of laugher.
"F-Fuck, baby..." He laughed, touching my waist to calm me while I was
hysterical.
"Why the hell did I say that?!" I exclaimed.
He was just laughing, niyakap ako habang binubulong ko ang iritadong nangyari.
He buried me on his chest while I curse myself.
"Arrgh!" I groaned.
We remained standing there, nang kumalma ako tsaka lang akong marahang tinulak
palayo at sinapo ang pisngi ko.
"Ayos ka na?" He asked with his amused smile.
My cheeks are still flushing and he is already teasing me!
 I glared at him.
"Happy ka na kasi nakaganti ka?" I spatted.
He suppressed his smile, cocking his head as he brushed my hair to the side of
my face.
"I didn't say anything." He murmured.
"Hmp!" Tinampal ko ang kamay n'ya at namaywang. "Happy ka?!"
He shrugged at me, smirking.
"You're still a playgirl to me," He muttered, binabalik ang topic namin kanina.
"You keep on seducing me."
"I am not sabi, eh!" I groaned.
He smiled, hinagilap ang baywang ko at inakay ako.
"Hmm, oo nalang." He muttered.
"Hindi nga," I said and stopped, looking at him. "I am not seducing you. Alam
mo kung bakit ang bilis mong maging apektado?"
Ibinigay n'ya ang buong atensyon sa akin, nagtataka pero kuryoso.
"Why?" He asked.
I pretended to be thinking, hinarap ko s'ya, marahang ipinatong ang kamay sa
kanyang balikat at nag-angat ng tingin.
He looks genuinely curious, his dark eyes filled with question.
I moved my face closer to his and I saw how his eyes darkened when he saw my
serious face.
His eyes moved from my eyes down my lips, I felt his hand slowly wrapping on my
back as he tried lowering his lip for a kiss but I looked away.
Kita ko ang frustration sa kanya nang tumama lang ang halik n'ya sa pisngi ko.
"Hmm, daddy. You know why?" Malamyos kong bulong.
"Why..." He muttered huskily, his voice isn't even asking a question but almost
humming.
I moved my face closer, kissing his cheek.
He stiffened, I heard his breathing deepened.
"Kasi..." I kissed him near the lips. "Marupok ka."
When he was too stunned, I grinned, natatawang lumayo ako sa kanya at tumakbo
pabalik sa cabin namin.
Natatawa pa ako noong una pagkasara ko ng pinto at sarado ng pinto pero nang
maramdaman ang malakas na kalabog ng puso ko.
Napahawak ako sa dibdib ko, pinapakiramdaman ang sarili at unti-unting natanto
na kahit anong mangyari, ilang taon man ang lumipas, s'ya pa rin.
I heard a knock from outside. Napalunok ako at nag-iinit ang pisngi sa muntik
na halik naming iyon.
I heard his knock again until he spoke.
"Baby, I know you're still giggling over there but open the door." He said, a
hint of laugher on his voice.
I bit my lip, nag-iinit ang pisngi.
"B-Bukas nalang tayo usap! Uhm, uwi ka muna." I said.
He chuckled.
"Hmm, I understand you're flustered too but we aren't home, baby. We stay in
the same room so..." He said.
Kinalma ko ang sarili, ngayon ko lang muling inamin na mahal ko pa rin s'ya.
Paano ko s'ya haharapin?
"Baby?" He knocked again.
I sighed, took a deep breath as I stpod straight, slowly opened the door and
saw his blazing eyes.
Nagkatitigan kami, no words was said but we might still have the slight spark
that ignited like fire.
The moment our eyes met, he lowered his face and immediately claimed my lips.
Hindi ako nakagalaw noong una pero makalipas ang ilang sandali ay nakita ko
nalang ang sarili na yakap ang batok n'ya.
I tiptoed, tilted my head and accepted his kiss.
We exchanged deep kisses until I felt my back fell on the matress, that's when
I opened my eyes and his soulful eyes looking down on me.
 "Guess it's good na marupok tayo sa isa't-isa?" His lip twitched, I smacked him
but then glance at his lips again.
"P-Pakiss pa ulit," I murmured and pulled his nape down on me.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 27

We're down on the last three! Hoping to finish this real

soon!
Enjoy! Keep safe!♥
xxx
Kabanata 27
My breath hitched for his fervent kisses, his hand on my nape, touching it to
soften me more.
Sinalakay ng kulisap ang sikmura ko ss halik na iyon, ang mga namatay na apoy
noon, muling nagbalik at unti-unti kaming tinutupok.
His hand fell on my leg, gripping it tightly on his waist, lifting me slowly on
the bed.
Naghiwalay ang labi namin at nagkatitigan. His eyes were sleepy and his lips
parted erotically, still swollen from our kisses.
Namungay ang mata ko at saglit kaming nagtitigan at muling nagtagpo ang labi.
My back arched when his finger graze in the fabric of my shirt. Ramdam ko ang
malamyos n'yang haplos roon sa kabila ng telang nakaharang.
I touched his nape down his back, marahang hinihila ang shirt n'ya paangat sa
kanyang batok. He never left me, his lip went on my check down my nape.
His hand pulled my shirt tucked on my shirt, freely touching my stomach. I felt
the chills again, the tingling sensation visible in between my skin.
He pushed his body against mine, ang gaspang ng pantalon ay pinaraan sa balat
ko.
Habol ang hiningang ipinaling ko ang ulo para pagbigyan ang kanyang halik. He
touched the valley of my breast, pulling the cup of my brassiere before touching my
bare skin.
Napaigtad ako, may malamyos na tinig na lumabas sa bibig at mas hinatak ko ang
shirt n'ya.
"B-Baby," I whispered.
Umangat s'ya, looking amused for what I've said, he kissed my lips again.
"What does my baby want," Halos malambing n'yang tanong.
I pulled his shirt again and his lip twitched, umayos mula sa pagkakaluhod sa
harap ko at hinila ang shirt mula sa batok at tinapon kung saan.
His well-built body stretched, his muscles all in the right places. I licked my
lip and stared at him shamelessly.
I gulped when I saw how he feasted on my now exposed breasts, nakaangat na pala
ang bra ko kaya kitang-kita n'ya.
"Shit..." He cursed deeply, licking his lower lip.
I lifted my body a bit, mabilis s'yang humawak sa baywang ko habang hinihila ko
ang shirt ko paalis sa katawan.
Isang kalabit ay natanggal na ang saplot ko pang-itaas at pinapaulanan na n'ya
ng halik iyon.
He was showering me with his soft and teasing kisses, his lips sucking and
licking my sensitive buds.
Ungol at ang hila sa kanyang buhok ang naging tugon ko sa nararamdaman. His
hands fell on my short, unbuttoning it as he pulled it swiftly in one hand without
any difficulty.
One touch of his finger and my toes are curled. He pulled my feet up his waist,
hinawi ang underwear tsaka lantarang hinaplos ang ibaba.
"D-Daddy... Shit!" I growled, humigpit ang kuyom sa bedsheet habang nagpepyesta
s'ya sa dibdib ko.
"Hmm?" He hummed, licking my buds more and sucking it like child. His finger
entered me, a slow pace thrusts followed until it became a lot more faster.
"R-Rai!" I called. He immediately lifted his face, shock was written and my
cheeks flushed when I realized what I called him.
"You called me..." He muttered, his eyes filled with happiness.

"Rai..." I then gave him a smile, as I pull his nape down

to give him a kiss. "I miss you, daddy Rai." I murmured.
Mas ginanahan s'ya, sa panibagong palitan namin ng halik ay s'yang pagpasok ng
dalawang daliri n'ya sa kaselanan ko.
I was moaning and writhing for that pleasure, my body felt a lot more hotter
and he is too. When he was too consumed by heat, he pulled my panties, nanlaki ang
mata ko roon nang mapunit.
"Rai!" I exclaimed.
His just gave me a foolish grin, mas lantaran ang ginawang paghaplos sa akin.
"I could buy you tons of it, baby." He smirked and my head fell down from
watching him when I felt something on my stomach.
I moved my body against his fingers and he groaned, his bulge felt a lot more
bigger now. I touched his jeans, his massive boner more visible on the rough
material of his clothes.
I tried pulling his belt, unbuckling it but I was unsuccessful.
Mas suminghap pa ako nang pakiramdam na may lalabas na.
"You like this, hmm..." He asked bluntly.
I growled, he was watching me intently as I gasped for air and pulled the
sheets. His eyes burning with desire and hunger, watching me as my face resembles
his equally.
"You like it when my fingers fuck you, huh?" He smirked.
"Yes, shit!" I almost exclaimed.
"F-Faster, dad-- Shit, Vioxx!" I groaned when he suddenly stop. Eksaherada
akong nagmulat ng mata nang makitang nang-aasar na s'ya.
"Where's Rai now, hmm?" He tilted his head.
"You!" I glared at him. "Why did you stop? I was...I was about to..."
"About to?" He licked his lip sensually again, kahit dim ang ilaw ay kitang-
kita ko ang malalim at nagnanasa n'yang titig.
"I was about to cum!" I exclaimed.
He chuckled, ngumuso ako at naupo ng bahagya, iritado.
"What's funny?!" Inarte ko.
"Your cum should be on my mouth, baby." He suddenly said.
I froze, napakurap ako nang tumayo s'ya sa kama, walang hirap na hinila paalis
ang belt at hinubad ang pants.
I was just in awe, my cheeks flushing when I saw his proud member, massive and
erect.
Marahas akong napalunok, he combed his hair with his fingers. His dark eyes
staring at me as he laid beside me, naked.
"Sit on my face, Serafine." He commanded.
"H-Huh?!" Kung sumabog na ang init sa pisngi ko ay mas malala pa ang pag-iinit
nito ngayon!
He chuckled and reached for me.
"Come on, baby, let me eat you." He said.
"B-But--" I stuttered hard! My cheeks are flushing!
"I was craving for you for years," He said and held me again.
"S-Seryoso..." Hinampas ko ang dibdib n'ya pero nangingiti lang s'ya at bahagya
pang naupo at hinalikan ako.
"Don't you want to pleasure your daddy, baby girl?" He whispered sensually on
my ear.
My stomach churned, the heat on my stomach resurfaced again.
 "G-Gusto pero..."
"Then, sit on my face." He said.

"O-Okay..." I muttered, he licked his lower lip again.

Seryoso at malalim ang tingin n'ya sa akin habang lumalapit ako sa kanya.
He laid comfortably on the bed again, waiting for me as I straddled my legs on
his face.
I was confused and ashamed but it all vanished when he pulled both of my legs
down and kissed my feminity.
I was moaning non-stop, wala nang pakialam kung may makarinig man. I keep on
rocking my legs against and mouth, his tongue giving me an outstanding performance.
"R-Rai...I...stop!" I gripped the mattress.
He was irresistable, kahit anong pilit kong lumayo dahil nararamdaman ko na ang
sukdulan ay mas idinidiin n'ya lang ako.
It was like he's triggering me to let it out but I tried controlling it.
"Cum for me, baby..." He hummed, his breath touched my skin.
"R-Rai...I, no, don't!" I exclaimed but he pulled me more.
He kissed, licked and pleasured me like it was his life-goal. He never let go
of it until I found myself rocking with his tongue.
It was crazy but the fire consumed us, hindi kami hinayaang makawala. I rocked
on his face and he cursed, held my waist until I spasmed.
Habol ang hininga ko at nawalan ng lakas. Bahagyang napahawak ako sa t'yan n'ya
at nag-init ang pisngi.
"R-Rai..." I muttered.
He didn't say anything, he continued licking my juices and kissing my feminity
until I was so shy.
Nag-init ang pisngi ko habang umaalis sa may kanya at kagat-kagat ang labi,
sumulyap ako sa kanya at nakitang mukha pa s'yang natutuwa.
"You tasted--"
"Miranda!" I exclaimed, I was embarassed!
His laugher roared, amused n'yang hinawakan ang pisngi ko at hinuli ang mata
ko.
"What is it?" He asked playfully.
"Y-You just...you ate--"
"Well it is sweet," He smirked.
"Ano ba!" I exclaimed. He laughed, cupping my cheek and kissing me on the lips.
I was lost again, yakap-yakap ko na ang kanyang batok habang nagpapalitan kami
ng halik. I was seated while he was kneeling on me, his hand on my cheek to kiss me
properly.
I opened my eyes and saw how focused he is on my lips, he's kissing me tenderly
and it was soft and sweet.
My heart felt at ease, nawala ang bigat at napuno lang ng saya habang nakikita
s'ya. I pushed him on the bed and he opened his eyes, napaupo.
"Hmm..." Namumungay pa ang mata n'ya nang magkatinginan kami.
"Let me drive you," I whispered.
He stopped, I saw how his eyes darkened more while watching me pushing him to
the headboard.
He licked his lip sensually again, his face was dark and his jaw clenched. He
looks handsome resting his back like that and waiting for me.
He licked his lower lip again and gaze at my naked body before cursing a bit.
"Can't wait, hmm?" I chuckled.
"You're a tease, baby." Malalim na sabi n'ya.
I smiled, hinila ang paa n'ya pababa kaya dumiretso iyon at lumuhod ako sa hita
n'ya.
"Baby--"
"Sshh," I placed my finger on his lips. "Quiet."
He suddenly laughed, tilting his head.
 "Says someone who screams like drowning." He teased.
"W-Weh? Malakas ba ang ungol ko?" I asked him with my eyes wide.
He chuckled and shrugged, teasing.
"Rai!" I growled. "Hindi nga? Baka mamaya narinig doon sa ibang cabin--"
"Hindi 'yan," He chuckled. Sinamaan ko s'ya ng tingin at hinaplos n'ya ang
baywang ko.
"Lay down, baby." Lambing pa n'ya pero pinalo ko ang kamay n'ya.
"No!" I exclaimed. "I'll ride you!"
His lip twitched, nagtatalo ang tuwa at pagnanasa sa ekspresyon. Nang makitang
determinado talaga ako ay isinandal n'ya ang ulo sa headboard at ngumisi.
"Impress your daddy, then." He challenged me.
"Huh! Akala mo!" I hissed. I slowly kissed his neck, rocking my part to his
massive one, teasing him.
He was stiff at first but I felt how he was affected by that. Kung kanina ay
nagbibiro pa ay seryoso na ngayon. Malalim ang paghinga habang kinakagat ko ang
kanyang leeg.
His breath deepened, bahagya akong sumilip sa mukha at nakitang mariing
nakapikit ang kanyang mata.
He was tilting his head up, some strands of his disheveled hair on his forehead
with his slightly parted mouth.
He looks like a greek god ready for my fucking. Mas ginanahan ako roon at
nakita ko kung paano s'ya napasinghap nang gawin ko na iyon.
I swiftly sat on his massive manhood and a moan escaped my lips. Like the first
time, still hurts. Ramdam ko ang hapdi roon kaya napasandal ako sa leeg niya.
He cursed, touching my waist as I adjust again to his size. He was almost out
of control but still keeping his sanity intact to check on me.
"Baby..." He called and I lifted my face. "You don't have to--"
"I want to, Rai." I muttered.
"I want it too but if you're hurting--"
"No," I shook my head, tilting my head to kiss him. "I-I missed you, Rai,
please..."
He sighed, his eyes scanned my face and guess he saw how I wanted it that much
that he agreed.
"Okay, let's take it slow." He murmured.
I nodded, he touched my waist, guided me as I thrust on me.
It was slow at first but later, the pain subsided and was replaced by
irrevocable pleasure. The pace fasten and our moans filled the room.
He was kissing my neck and biting my skin, ang kamay ay nasa dibdib ko habang
gumagalaw ako sa ibabaw n'ya.
He filled me to the brim, nang hindi na makatiis ay sumabay sa galaw ko habang
hinahalikan ako.
The bed is creaking wildly and loudly that I am afraid it'll break.
I never know I'll feel the same intense pleasure like this until now, with the
same man, with the only man I'f ever love in this lifetime and the next.
I spasmed and he immediately manipulated our position, he is now above me,
pumping faster and shooting his load inside my womb.
Rinig na rinig ko ang paghinga n'ya sa tenga ko at ang malakas na kalabog ng
puso ko. Yumakap ako sa batok n'ya at nangingiti ay hinalikang ang tainga n'ya.
"Y-You didn't use condom," I whispered.
"Hmm," He slowly glance at me. "Is it needed?"
"Di naman pero...paano kung mabuntis ako?"

"I was planning to get you pregnant since the very first
time--"
 "Miranda!" My eyes widen but then remembered he didn't use protection that time
too!
He smiled cockily, giving me a kiss.
"Pero paano nga?" I looked at him and he smirked, touching my face.
"I'll marry you," He muttered and my mouth parted.
"Uhm..."
"Sshh," He whispered. "I will wait until you're ready, even if it's long
overdue."
"Rai..."
"Don't be pressured, baby. I am not forcing you to say yes, I will wait."
Nangilid ang luha ko habang nakamasid sa kanya.
"Rai,"
"No, I'm alright. I won't pressure you, I will wait for you. If...If asking you
like that years ago pressured you, ayoko na ulit."
May humaplos sa puso ko at napasinghap ako.
"I can wait, baby. I will wait, I don't want losing you like that again. I'm
afraid." He whispered.
I gasped, mabilis kong niyakap ang kanyang batok kaya napasubsob s'ya sa aking
leeg. He was breathing deeply but trying his best to console me.
"S-Sorry..." I murmured.
"It's not your fault, don't say sorry." He whispered sweetly.
Humiwalay s'ya sa akin, akmang tatayo na pero sabay kaming natigilan nang may
kung anong tunog sa kama.
My eyes immediately scanned the bed and I gasped loudly when it made a creak
sound and the lower side of the bed fell.
Shit!
Mabilis akong nahawakan ni Rai kaya napatayo ako at binalot ang sarili habang
nakanganga at nakatitig sa bumagsak na kama.
"R-Rai," I gulped hard. "N-Nawasak 'yong kama."
Hindi ko alam kung paano kami nakatulog ni Rai sa sobrang tawanan. It was
awkward but epic.
Wala kaming choice at sa lapag natulog dahil doon. We put comforters, hindi
naman ako masyadong nilamig dahil sa binalot ako nito ng kumot na may pabaon pang
yakap.
It was a wonderful night that I thought I was only dreaming, sa paggising ko at
wala ito sa tabi ko ay bigla akong kinabahan.
Is it a dream, then?
I stood up, panicking, mabilis akong lumabas at nakahinga ng maluwang nang
makita si Rai na nakadungaw sa dagat, hawak ang kape.
The creak of the door made him look at my direction, nang magtagpo ang mata
namin ay halos takbuhin ko s'ya para lang yakapin.
"Woah, baby..." I heard him chuckled, nakataas pa ang kamay sa gulat sa akin.
"Miss me that much, huh?" Biro pa n'ya pero nang mapansing hindi ako natawa ay
ibinaba n'ya ang kape at marahang niyakap ako pabalik.
"What is it?" He whispered.
Hindi ako umimik, I hugged him tightly and he caressed my back, slowly kissing
my head.
"Sera," He called.
"I-I thought it's just a dream," I whispered.
"Hmm, what is it, then? Wet dreams?" He whispered.
Nawala ang paiyak na sanang ako, tinulak ko s'ya, sinamaan ng tingin at bigla
s'yang natawa at pinisil ang ilong ko.
"Kidding," He chuckled. "Good morning, sleepy head. It wasn't a dream."

"Nakakatawa 'yon, Miranda?" Ngiwi ko.

He laughed, cupping my face to kiss the tip of my nose.
"Hmm, basta hindi 'yon panaginip. I'm really here, totoo 'yon. Nasira pa nga
natin 'yong kama--"
"Sshh!" Mabilis kong tinakpan ang bibig n'ya.
He was laughing again, namumula na ang pisngi n'ya kaya paulit-ulit kong pinalo
ang braso n'ya.
Tuwang-tuwa s'ya, hinuli pa ang kamay ko at halos buhatin ako papasok sa loob.
"You're so annoying!" I growled.
He was too amused, naupo s'ya sa may upuan habang nakapamaywang ako sa harapan
n'ya.
"Paano 'yong kama--" I pointed the bed but then saw him not giving what I am
saying attention kaya sumimangot ako. "Are you listening?"
"You look sexy on my shirt," He grinned.
I stopped, bumaba ang tingin sa suot na damit at ngumiwi sa kanya.
"Miranda..." I warned.
"Alright, baby..." He chuckled, pulling me on his lap before nuzzling my neck.
"Paano natin sasabihin?" I asked.
"Ako bahala..." He laughed.
"Nakakahiya?" I stared at him. "Baka sabihin nilang nag-gymnastics tayo!"
"Bakit? Hindi ba?" He asked me with a grin.
Humaba ang nguso ko.
"Oo pero nakakahiya nga," I pouted. "Tsaka, ikaw kasi ang wild mo!"
"Ako pa?" He looks shocked.
"Oo," I pouted. "Tsaka ang sakit n'yang susi mo!"
"Key?"
"Oo 'yan!" I pointed his crotch and he looked innocent when he blinked. "Lumaki
ba lalo? Huling measure ko d'yan seven inch and hal--"
"Serafine!" His eyes darkened and I laughed. "Are we really talking about my
size?"
"Oo! Kasi scam 'yong dati, akala ko six pero 'nung measure natin seven at
kalahati naman!"
His lips thinned and I chuckled, caught his face and give him a sweet kiss on
the lips.
"Alright, daddy, hindi na. Ligo na tayo? May trabaho tayo." I said.
He pouted a bit, looking thrilled.
"Talaga? Sabay ba tayo?"
I grinned, biglang tumayo at naglakad palayo.
"Habulin mo muna ko..." I teased and when he suddenly stood and caught me, I
screamed.
Wala nang mas a-awkward habang ang mga lalaking kasama sa team ni Engineer
Miranda ay nagtutulong-tulong para mailabas ang kama sa loob ng cabin.
I tried to remain formal pero hiyang-hiya ako sa nakikita.
"Bakit ba nasira, Engr.?" Tanong sa kanya ni Engr. Cabral.
"Marupok kasi," Sagot ng bwiset, pasimpleng sumulyap sa akin kaya nanlaki ang
mata ko, mabilis na nag-iwas ng tingin at naeeskandalong tumikhim at naghanap ng
gagawin.
"Eh, saan kayo natulog, Engr.?" Jade asked kaya napabaling sa kanya.
"H-Huh?"
"Sira 'yong kama, eh. Paano 'yon?" Joanna said.
"K-Kanina lang 'yan. Uh, ako sa kama, eh. Tapos kanina parang medyo nasisira na
kaso natuluyan." Palusot ko.
"Kanina lang? Bakit sabi ni Engineer kagabi pa raw? Narinig ko." Biglang singit
ni Clarisse.

"Huh?!" Nanlaki ang mata ko. "Hindi ko alam."

"Akala ko ba ikaw ang sa kama, Engineer?" Entrada ni Jade.
Aba, pinagtutulungan na ako!
"Uhm..." I cleared my throat.
"Hala, ano 'yang sa leeg mo?" Biglang turo ni Clarisse.
 My forehead creased, napahawak sa leeg at napakurap.
"A-Ano?"
"May mapula..."
"Huh?!" Napalakas na sabi ko at nakitang nagsilingunan ang mga kasamang iba.
I saw Rai looked at my direction, his forehead creased.
"Parang may tsikinini--"
"Talaga?!" I exclaimed. "Huh?! Ano..."
Nanliit ang mata nila sa akin, mabilis na nakiusisa sina Jade at nakita kong
nanlaki ang mata nila bigla.
"Hala, mayroon nga--"
"Ipis!" I exclaimed at bigla silang natahimik.
They looked confused, I looked around and saw the curious stare of people kaya
ngumisi ako at bahagyang natawa.
"Excuse lang," I chuckled awkwardly and pulled my friends.
Teka, bakit na maraming nandito sa tapat ng cabin ni Rai?
Rai was even eyeing me but I glared at him and left him confuse.
Nang nasa tagong lugar na ay sumabat ako kaagad.
"This isn't a hickey!"
"Weh? Ano 'yan?" Ngisi bigla ni Joanna. "Parang alam ko na, Engineer, huh? Kung
bakit nasira ang kama..."
"No!" I exclaimed.
Shit, I didn't know I have a hickey!
"Hmm..." They teased.
"Oo nga!" My eyes widen. "This is just cockroach! Gulat nga ako may ganoon pala
rito!"
They eyed me, teasing.
"Hello, ladies." Sabay-sabay kaming napalingon nang biglang lumitaw ang
engineer, nakangiti pero mukhang lito.
"Hi, cockroach!" Kaway bigla ni Clarisse at ngumisi. "Ikaw rin, Engineer
Miranda, nakagat ng ipis sa leeg."

Rai touched his neck at parang papakain nalang ako sa lupa nang makitang may
hickey din s'ya roon!
Weeks passed and the renovation is going well and great, hindi rin kami
nakapamasyal ni Rai dahil nga sa deadline at para matapos namin kaagad ang project.
It was satisfying, seeing our hard work paid off. Gusto ko pa sana magtagal,
para makita ang finishing touch sa isla at makapamasyal pero nang matanggap ang
tawag mula sa isang kilala ni Nanay ay nagmamadali akong pabalik.
Rai kept on calming me down but I just can't, pagkadaong pa lamang ng yate ay
dali-dali na kaming nagtungo sa ospital.
They said Nanay was stabbed because of a debt.
She may not be a good mother to me but she is still my mother, sa kanya ako
lumaki. Kahit hindi naging maganda ang relasyon naming dalawa ay nanay ko pa rin
s'ya.
"What happened..." I asked when I saw the doctor from the emergency room
assigned to her.
"Kaano-ano n'yo po ang pasyente?" He asked, nakita kong sumulyap s'ya kay Rai
na katabi ko at nakahawak sa baywang ko.
"She's my mother." I said. "Doc, kumusta si Nanay?"
"She's stable, Miss Mendez." He said. "She was stabbed in the stomach but
thankfully, it missed her vital organs."

I sighed, nakahinga ako ng maluwang nang marinig iyon.

"Thank, God." I whispered, relieved. "Nasaan po s'ya? Gusto ko sana s'yang
makita."
"She's in the private room on the second floor, mabuti at dumating ka, hija.
Iyonv lalaking kasama n'ya rito kanina ay nagpupumilit ng umalis sila ng Nanay mo
dahil wala raw pambayad." Aniya.
I sighed and nodded, marahang hinaplos ni Rai ang likod ko at nagpasalamat ako
sa doktor bago umalis.
I was quiet while we're on our way to the right floor, until now, hospital
scares me. Hanggang ngayon ay takot ako at na-trauma sa mga nangyari ilang taon na
ang nakaraan.
Ang tatay...si Migs, pati ngayon ang nanay.
He respected my silence and held my hand while we made our way to her room.
Alam kong ramdam ni Rai ang bigat ng nararamdaman ko dahil seryoso s'ya at panay
ang tingin sa akin.
When I saw her room, sumilip ako, she was asleep and her stomach has bandage.
Hindi ko makita ang itsura ng Nanay ng maayos dahil sa distansya pero nanghina ako.
"Sera," His voice soothes me and I found myseld crying.
He held me, mariing napapikit ako habang nakayakap kay Rai, nanginginig ang
kamay.
"S-Si Nanay..." I whispered.
"She's gonna be alright," He calmed me and kissed my head, hugging me tight.
"She's stable, baby, she'll be alright."
I closed my eyes, trying my best to calm myself and not to be seen weak. Siguro
ay kung sa ibang tao, hindi ako iiyak ng ganito pero marahil siguro ay si Rai ang
kasama ko kaya ganito nalang ako umiyak.
His soft voice made me calm, mahigpit ang hawak ko sa kanya habang naglalakad
papasok ng private room na iyon.
Just one glance at my mother and I felt sad, she changed a lot. Namayat s'ya at
mukha ng mahina.
She was dozed off to sleep but her cold and fierce face remained the same. I
sighed, humiwalay kay Rai at nilapitan ang Nanay.
Slowly, I took her hand, touching it softly.
"Nay..." I whispered.
It's been a while since she last called to ask for money, sana ay sinabi nalang
n'ya sa akin kaysa na ganito.
I keep on asking her to come with us, kahit para kay Miggy nalang but she keep
on refusing me, madalas pa ay papatayan ako ng tawag.
I stayed with her for hours but she's still asleep, nilingon si Rai na tahimik
na nakaupo sa sofa at tila may iti-ne-text.
"You should rest," I called his attention.
He glanced at me, his understanding and soulful eyes looks too soft.
"I'm alright," He smiled.
Saglit kong iniwan ang Nanay para lumapit sa kanya. He immediately offered his
arms, naupo ako sa tabi n'ya at tahimik na yumakap sa kanyang baywang.
I felt his warmth against my skin, hinalikan n'ya ang ulo ko at mas hinawakan.
"It's you who should rest," He whispered. "Your Nanay will be fine, I assure
you."
"Yong...'yong nanakit sa kanya." I muttered and lifted my face. "Kailangan kong
makausap si Lito, s'ya raw ang nagdala kay Nanay. Kailangan kong malaman kung
sino."
"Lando is taking care of it," Natigilan ako sa sinabi n'ya.
"Lando?" I asked, he nodded. "As in...Lando?!"

"Hmm, yes, that Lando you knew." His lip twitched.

Umawang ang labi ko at napatango sa kanya.
"I haven't seen him in years!"
"Hmm, but he sees you always." He said. Ky forehead creased and he gulped,
looking away.
"Ano? How? He left too when you left!"
"Ipapaliwanag ko sa'yo sa susunod," He said at naguguluhan man ay tumango ako
at hindi nag-usisa.
 "Lando texted," Aniya kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya. "Nadala na sa presinto ang
may gawa, kasama raw ata sa sugal."
I sighed, hindi na nagsalita at muling sumulyap kay Nanay.
I planned what steps I could do to file a case against that woman who stabbed
her, halos hindi na nakatulog kakabantay kay Nanay.
"Baby..." Nag-angat ako ng tingin kay Rai. "Can you stay here for a while? I
have to go the prison."
Napaayos ako ng upo roon sa sinabi n'ya.
"W-Why?"
"The suspect escaped, pinaghahanap naman ng pulisya at nina Lando but I have to
go."
"Bakit? Paano kung...mapahamak ka?" My forehead creased and touched his arm.
"You should stay."
"I'll be fine," He assured me, touching my cheek. "I won't get hurt."
"Hindi natin masasabi, I-I don't wanna risk." I whispered.
He smiled reassuringly, napapikit ako nang hagkan n'ya ang noo ko at tumitig.
"I won't get hurt, I promise."
I looked at him and when I saw his eyes, I nodded.
Nang umalis si Rai para pumuntang presinto ay mag-isa akong nagbantay. Ilang
oras ang lumipas at nang makaramdam ng pagod ay nagdesisyon akong kumuha ng kape
para hindi antukin para maantay s'ya habang nagbabantay kay Nanay.
Habang papunta sa kanyang kwarto ay nakita ko si Lito, ang madalas na kainuman
at kasugal ni Nanay. Ganoon pa rin ang itsura pero medyo pumayat at mas dumami ang
tattoo.
"Sabi na kasi! Tara dito! Kuhanin natin si Divina dito! Tang ina, wala akong
pambayad!" I heard him talking to his phone.
"Hindi ko alam! Wala pa ata 'yong anak! Tang ina, pahamak ang puta!" He
exclaimed.
"Gago ka, anong ipapambayad ko? Gago, kung hindi lang nakita ng ibang mga
kasama hindi ko dadalhin 'to sa ospital! Hayaan ko 'tong mamatay! Wala naman itong
kwenta!"
My forehead creased, my heart was suddenly filled with rage hearing him say
that to my mother.
I cleared my throat, nang napalingon ito sa akin at biglang umayos ng tayo.
Mabilis na nagpaalam sa kausap at ngumisi.
"Sera!" He called, his smile is wide.
Ang kanyang mata ay bahagya pang namumula. Naglakad ako patungo sa kanya, I saw
how his eyes landed from my face down my body, binasa pa n'ya ang labi pagkatapos
at ngumisi.
"Sumexy ka lalo, ah!" He whistled.
I felt harassed but I remained stoic.
"Salamat sa paghatid dito kay Nanay, pwede ka ng umuwi. Ako na ang bahala sa
kanya." I said.
"Ganun nalang?" Ngisi n'ya at muling sumulyap sa dibdib ko. "Hindi naman ako
papayag na ganyan, syempre, ako ang nagdala sa Nanay mo!"
"Thank you," I said firmly.

"Masyado akong concern sa Nanay mo, ako pa ang nagpumilit

dalhin 'yan dito!"
As if I haven't heard what he said, huh.
"Kahit pang-alak lang," Malagkit s'yang tumitig, "O kaya isang gabi."
My jaw clenched, the rage I've been feeling started consuming me. Humigpit ang
hawak ko sa kape.
"Hindi ka anak ni Divina, di ba? Sinong Nanay mo? Maganda rin 'no? Kamukha mo
siguro. Maganda naman si Divina pero alam mong matagal na kitang tipo, di ba?" He
gazed at my chest again and smirked.
"Pahawak nga--" Binuhos ko sa kanya ang kapeng hawak.
 He suddenly screamed, kumuyom ang kamay ko at mabilis s'yang sinampal.
"Putang ina! Puta ka, ah!" He exclaimed, inangat ang kamay para sampalin ako
pero hindi n'ya na nagawa iyon nang may pumigil sa kanyang kamay.
My eyes widen, mabilis na napalingon at nakita si Rai na mabilis na pinilipit
ang kanyang kamay. I was shocked when he was too fast to throw a punch on his face.
Bumagsak si Lito sa lapag, dumudugo ang labi at nahilo.
Dinala s'ya sa presinto, Rai was furious but he won't show it to me dahil ayaw
n'yang dumagdag sa iniisip ko.
Nang bumalik ako sa kwarto habang nagbabantay kay Nanay ay rinig ko ang mga
galit na utos ni Rai sa mga tauhan kung anong gagawin kay Lito.
He was interested in me way back, noong nasa bahay pa ako. Kapag nasa bahay
sila nila Nanay at nagsusugal, may isang pagkakataong pinasok n'ya ako sa kusina at
biglang hinipuan.
Sa gulat ko ay hindi ako nakapagreact, ni hindi ako nakapagreklamo dahil sa
takot sa ngisi n'ya sa ginawa.
My thoughts vanished when I saw my mother's fingers moved. Napatayo ako sa sofa
at mabilis na lumapit.
"N-Nay..." I muttered, slowly she opened her eyes and I saw how shocked she was
when she saw me.
"S-Sera..." She murmured.
Nangilid ang luha ko pero hindi ako nagpakitang iiyak, kaagad kong hinawakan
ang kamay n'ya na kaagad n'yang inilayo sa akin.
"B-Bakit ka nandito? W-Wala ka dapat dito!" She exclaimed.
My heart fell.
"Nay," I murmured. "I got a call and heard what happened--"
"Wala ka dapat dito, Serafine!" She exclaimed and shook her head. "Dapat ay
naroon ka sa kapatid mo! Dapat wala ka dito!"
"Nay..." I whispered. "Calm down, ang sugat mo--"
"Wala ka na dapat pakialam sa akin, Serafine! Umuwi ka na! Hayaan mo akong
mamatay nalang dito!" She exclaimed.
Nanghina ako, suddenly, my tears fell.
"N-Nay..."
"A-Ang kapatid mo! S'ya ang alagaan mo! H'wag mo nang--"
"B-Bakit hindi mo sa'kin sinabi, Nay?" I asked, my tears falling. "E-Edi sana,
natulungan kita, para hindi na ganito...Para hindi ka na nasaktan!"
"M-Magiging pabigat nalang ako sa'yo," She muttered, I saw how her tears fell.
"A-Ayokong madamay pa kayo--"
"N-Nay, tutulungan naman kita..." I whispered.
"Para saan pa?!" She eyed me, her eyes swollen. "Hindi ako naging mabuting ina
sa inyo ni Miggy! Para saan pang hihingi ako ng tulong? Palagi nalang akong
humihingi! Pagod na ako!"
I sniffed, bumukas ang pinto at nakita ko ang nag-aalalang mukha ni Rai pero
nang sumulyap ako at bahagyang umiling ay bahagya s'yang umatras.
He was hesistant at first but nodded, understanding me.

"Nahihiya ako! Nahihiya ako dahil natanto kong hindi ako

mabuting ina! Nagagalit ako kasi may anak si Benjamin sa iba!" She cried and I
remained silent, listening to her.
"G-Gusto kong tanggapin pero hindi ko kaya, Serafine! Kaya nagalit ako! Kaya
sinaktan kita pero bakit...bakit hindi ka nagagalit?! Dapat galit ka sa akin! Dapat
hinahayaan mo nalang ako!"
Mas lumandas ang luha ko sa narinig.
"Bakit, Serafine?!" She exclaimed.
"K-Kasi Nanay kita, eh." I whispered.
She sobbed, mas napahikbi ako nang marinig ang iyak n'ya.
"B-Bakit...s-sinasaktan kita." She whispered.
Lumakad ako palapit sa kanya at marahan s'yang niyakap. She sobbed, her body
was shaking. Noong una ay hindi pa s'ya gumagalaw pero kalaunan ay mahigpit na ang
hawak sa akin.
"N-Nagagalit ako...kasi...kasi w-wala akong nagawa para humingi man lang tawad
sa inyo ni Miggy." She whispered.
"N-Nay..." Ipinikit ko ang mata.
"S-Salamat sa pag-aalaga sa kapatid mo." She said.
Paos man at patuloy ang pag-iyak ay hinagod ko ang kanyang likod para kumalma
kahit wala pa ring mintis ang luha ko.
"H-Huli ko na natanto, p-patawarin mo sana ang nanay, nak." She cried
violently.
Akala ko'y sagad na ang luha ko pero bayolente lang na bumagsak dahil sa
narinig.
Ilang araw ding nanatili si Nanay sa ospital, nagkakahiyaan pa kami noong una
sa nangyari noong gabi ngayon.
It was awkward but we managed to become civil, atleast. She talks to me,
tinatanong kung kumusta na si Miggy na kaagad kong sinasagot.
I told her what happened to Lito dahil sa nagsampa ako ng kaso, sinabi ko rin
na nasa kulungan na ito kasama ang nanakit kay Nanay.
"Well, you're okay?" Pansin ko kay Rai na kasama ko ngayon at hawak ang kanyang
kamay.
Unfortunately, he has to leave for the last couple of days to the island.
Nagkaroon kasi ng kaunting problema sa plano, bilang head ay kinailangan s'ya kaya
nagpaiwan ako para magbantay sa nanay.
"I guess..." He shrugged, licking his lower lip.
He looks downright handsome. Wearing his white poloshirt, fitted perfectly on
his body.
His muscles are just in the right place, his shirt tucked perfectly on his
black pants and wearing a shite sneakers.
"Papakilala lang ulit kita kay Nanay..." I grinned. "Ayos na ayos tayo, daddy,
ah?"
"Huh?" His jaw clenched. "No, I just..."
"It's alright, Nanay already know you, di ba?"
"Yes...but still, this is a different scenario."
"Sus," I chuckled, pinching his nose. "Gwapo mo, don't worry."
I fixed his collar, marahang pinagpagan ang may shirt n'ya at inayos ang buhok.
Like a kid, he was obedient, bahagya pang nakatungo para maabot ko s'ya, nakahawak
sa aking baywang.
Pinagmasdan ko s'ya at pagkatapos ay ngumuso.
"Hmmm, may kulang pa." I commented.
"What?" He asked, confused.
I smiled, tiptoed a bit a give him a kiss on the lips.
He froze, nang lumayo ako ay tulala s'ya sa akin, namumula ang mukha.

"There, natural blush." I tapped his cheek. "Good boy."

He was embarassed but amused, hinawakan n'ya ang kamay ko papasok pero sa
hallway ay nakita ko ang isang pamilyar na mukha.
Gino?
We entered the room with me, confused but it all faded when the shy boy, talked
to my mom.
"Ano mo na ba ito, Serafine?" Nanay asked, pointing Rai.
Ano nga ba...
Humarap ako sa kanya, Rai pouted too, mukhang nag-iisip at bumaling sa Nanay.
"Ma'am, I'm her boy--"
"Suitor!" I exclaimed and Rai shifted his gaze at me. "Suitor, Nay." I grinned.
Nagtantrums ang feeling bata, tawang-tawa ako habang nakatitig kay Rai na
tumutusok ng karne at kunot ang noo.
"Hindi pa ba tayo sa lagay na 'to?" Reklamo n'ya.
 I giggled, kumuha ng tissue para punasan ang gilid ng labi n'ya.
"Hindi pwede 'yon, ligaw muna." I winked.
Gusto man n'yang magreklamo ay alam kong walang magagawa na.
"Mga kailan mo ako sasagutin?" He asked. Natawa ako sa kanya.
"Aba, malay ko. Bakit may schedule?" I laughed. "Siguro mga two months?"
"Tagal," He scratched his nape. "Wala na bang tawad 'yan, Serafine?"
"Hmm, sige, one month." Napaisip ako.
"It's too long!" He sulked.
"Kaysa wala? Ano, ayaw mo? H'wag na kaya kita sagutin?" Pinalakihan ko s'ya ng
mata.
Sumimangot s'ya, supladong umirap kaya umawang ang labi ko.
"Iniirapan mo ba ako, Miranda?" I pointed out.
Bigla s'yang humarap sa akin at umiling.
"I-Irap? H-Hindi, ah!" He puffed a breath and smiled, pilit pa kaya natatawa
ako pero pilit na nagseseryoso.
"Sinong nagrereklamo? One month...mabilis lang 'yon." He smiled.
"Good," I grinned and lowered my head to eat again when he spoke.
"Three weeks, huling tawad. Nasira na rin naman natin 'yong kama--" I eyed him
sharply and he gulped, slowly looking away. "Sabi ko nga, one month."
Kailangan munang maghilom kahit papaano ang sugat ni Nanay bago kami
makapagbyahe papuntang Sta. Monica.
I cleaned the house so, we stayed there. When I got my free time, I went to my
Dad's tomb and shop with Kikay to treat her like I promised.
Rai became busy with work, kinailangan pang magpunta sa Maynila para roon.
I was sad but it's work, ganoon rin naman ako pagbalik ko sa amin.
We haven't seen each other for three days now, puro lang kami text at
videocall.
From: Papa dè asukal
I got a package for you. Love you, baby.
To: Papa dè asukal
Huh? What is it? Miss you :(
"Miss Serafine? Serafine Mendez po?" Someone called, my forehead creased,
lumabas at nakita ang isang delivery boy.
"Yes?" I asked.
"Ma'am Serafine po?"
"Yes? Why?" I asked.
He smiled a bit, may kinuha sa malaking box sa likuran at nanlaki ang mata ko
sa gulat at kilig ng makita ang isang malaking pumpon ng mga bulaklak.
"Ma'am, para po sa'yo." Aniya at umawang ang labi ko.
I excitedly took it! Maraming kulay ng mga rosas ang naroon at may letter pa!
To: Baby girl
Miss you, I'll be home soon.
From: Daddy Rai
I giggled, nang makitang nakikiusyoso ang mga kapitbahay ay inamoy-amoy ko pa
ang bulaklak doon.
Huh! Bigay 'to ng suitor ko!
My smile widened, nag-uumapaw ang kilig sa puso bago nilingon ang delivery boy
na nakangiti lang, hindi umaalis.
"Sige, salamat!" I giggled.
Tumalikod ako, inaamoy-amoy pa ang bulaklak nang marinig ang tawag nito.
"Ma'am!" He called.
I looked back, confused. "Why?"
"Uh, eh..." He scratched his head in shame. "Ano po kasi, COD 'yan."
"H-Huh...COD?"
"Cash on delivery po." Aniya at ang ngiti ko ay unti-unting nawala at nagmura
na sa isipan.
Vioxx Ephraim Miranda!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 28

Two more to goooo! Sana ay na-enjoy n'yo ang Dancing With

Fire.
May this story become your escape in this crisis we're in. Stay safe, Archers!
Love u!♥
xxx
Kabanata 28
When I was a kid, my father taught me to always be kind. There are times when I
was still studying in elementary where I was bullied.
Inaasar nila akong mahirap at walang nanay. May family day kasi noon at hindi
ako nakasali sa activities dahil wala akong magulang.
Tatay will always drive to work, para may makain kami, para may pang-aral ako
while Nanay really won't go.
Noon, they kept on pushing me, teasing me and mocking me. Masakit pero sabi ko
sa sarili kong dapat ay kaya ko, dapat ay hindi ako gaganti dahil hindi ako ganoon
pinalaki ng Tatay ko.
He told me to be kind, always. Even if the people you've been showing that
kindness does not deserve it. He said, cruelty should stop with them, na h'wag
akong magtatanim. He said to never let the pain they gave me taint the love I have.
Kaya siguro nadala ko hanggang paglaki, kaya hindi siguro ako basta-bastang
sumuko kahit anong hila sa akin ng tadhana pababa.
"Thank you, tay..." I whispered in the thin air while caressing his tomb.
My tears fell, hindi ata magsasawang tumulo habang naaalala s'ya. I know tears
won't make him come back but it's my only way to forget the pain.
I promised to be a better person, Tay. Para kay Miggy, para kay Nanay, para sa
mga mahal ko sa buhay. Sa'yo at para kay Mama d'yan sa heaven. Magsisikap ako.
"Binabawi ko na, one year ka manligaw!" Matalim ang tingin ko sa kanya habang
nakanguso sa akin.
"What..." He gasped. "Praktikal lang dapat--"
"Huh? Hotdog!" Ngiwi ko.
He suddenly laughed, napangiwi pa ako nang hilahin n'ya ako pabagsak sa kanyang
hita.
"My wallet's still with you." He whispered.
Natigil ako nang matanto pero nilingon s'ya.
"Akala ko ba akin 'yon, bakit doon ako kukuha?" I raised my brow.
He laughed again, hinuli n'ya ang panga ko para harapin ako at mahalikan. He
gave me a peck, lumayo ako at pinitik ang labi n'ya.
"No! Bad!" I exclaimed.
He pouted, halos magdikit na ang mukha namin. I was eyeing him sharply while he
remained staring at me, his dark brown eyes dancing with amusement.
"Mahirap lang ako, Serafine." Ngisi n'ya.
"Wow, daddy!" I groaned. "Coming from you?"
"Totoo!" He exclaimed, laughing. Mas pinirmi n'ya ako sa kanyang hita.
"Oh, eh, bakit noon? Noong umalis ka, I tried giving back the wallet to you
pero hindi ka naman sumasagot sa messages ko. Even the money!" Hinarap ko s'ya. "I
deposited it to your account and the next day, the same amout is deposited back on
my account too!"
His lip twitched, bahagyang sumandal sa sofa at dinala pa ako dahil sa yakap
n'ya.
"I gave that to you so," He shrugged.
I rolled my eyes. "Ewan, Miranda. Imagine my face when I heard that! Yabang ko
pa, inaamoy ko 'yong bulaklak mo tapos COD!" I exclaimed.
He bursted out laughing again, sa asar ko ay pinaghahampas ko s'ya pero pilit
n'yang hinuhuli ang kamay ko.
 "Kailangan ko na rin magtipid, wala na akong pera--"
"Package mo para sa akin tapo ako magbabayad?!" I asked. "Scammer!"
He laughed, I gritted my teeth.
"Hindi na, good boy na ako." He chuckled, hinuli ang panga ko. "Kiss nalang
ako."
He attempted to kiss me but I moved away, napaatras ako at ngumiwi.
"No, kisses! Such a bad, old daddy!" I spatted.
"Sige na, isa lang." He pouted his lips.
"No, baka saan nanaman mapunta ang kiss." I shook my head. "Ano? Ano nanamang
sisirain natin, huh?"
"Uh, this sofa?" He smirked.
"Too small," I said.
"Hmmm, how about this table." Turo n'ya sa mahogany table doon. "But it won't
break, I bought this from a good manufacturer, kaya pwedeng dito nalang."
Nang nanahimik ako ay may kung anong kislap ang mata n'ya. He tried kissing me
again, umiwas ako at umiling.
"No, ayaw ko." Tumayo ako bigla.
His mouth parted.
"Baby..." He whined.
"Hindi pwede. Manliligaw ka pa, di ba? Isang taon?"
"Serafine!" He stomped his feet.
I smirked.
"Bilisan mo, tayo na d'yan! Mamasyal tayo." I said.
He sighed, walang ganang tumayo at kumapit sa akin.
"Wala na akong pera, Sera." He whispered.
Halos matawa naman ako at inirapan s'ya.
"Paano naman ako? Ang mahal 'nung bouquet!" I hissed but then looked at him.
"Anyway, okay. I'll treat you."
His eyes widen, looking at me.
"Really?"
"Hmm," I winked, kumapit ako sa braso n'ya at sabay kaming naglakad palabas ng
opisina n'ya.
His employees greeted him while he was just nodding. I got curious stares from
them but I remained smiling.
"I'll be your sugar mommy today," I whispered.
He chuckled, mas inilapit ako sa kanya at bumulong.
"Mama dè asukal," He whispered.
I froze, marahas ko s'yang tinitigan at humagalpak s'ya, natatawang humawak sa
kamay ko at humalik sa pisngi.
When we got to the mall, kaagad ko s'yang hinila sa men's section ng boutiques.
"Do you still have that same closet, Rai?" Lingon ko sa kanya habang nananatili
s'yang nakatayo sa tabi ko at nagmamasid habang hinahawi ko ang mga polo.
"What closet?"
"Yong closet mong halos neutral lang ang kulay ng mga damit," I said.
He nodded then chuckled.
"Yeah, I am not roaming around stores, anyway." Umakbay s'ya sa akin.
"Weh?" Nanliit ang mata ko sa kanya. "Let me remind you how you choose dresses
for me, way back?"
I saw how he tried suppresing his smirk.
"Hmm, well, that, sinasadya ko talagang daanan para kapag may makita akong
bagay sa'yo..."
"And you said nadaanan mo lang noon at bagay sa akin!" I hissed.
He laughed.
"Unless, mas gusto mong magshopping sa women's section?" I looked at him
maliciously. "Don't you?"
 Nagseryoso s'ya bigla at tinitigan ako, aasarin ko pa sana
nang makitang nanliliit na ang mata n'ya.
"Are you saying I'm gay, huh?"
"I didn't say anything," I shrugged, cocking my head with a sly smile.
"Well, baby..." His hand on my shoulder went down my waist, my eyes widen when
he slowly pushed me on the wall beside us.
"H-Hoy..." Namilog ang mata ko at lumingon sa paligid.
Bakit walang saleslady sa banda dito?!
"Hmm," He smirked at me, his eyes darkened with his wicked thoughts. "Aside
from the bed, what else do you want us to break?" His sinful palm went down and
cupped my butt playfully.
"Miranda!" I hissed, my cheeks flushing.
"Uh, h-hello, Ma'am, Sir!" A panicking saleslady appeared.
"U-Uh," Mabilis kong tinulak si Rai na tamad na ngumisi at pinakawalan din ako.
"N-Nasaan ang dress shirts?" I stuttered while looking at the frantic
saleslady.
"T-This way, Ma'am." Aniya at naglakad.
Nakita n'ya kaya 'yon? Shit, Miranda!
Humalakhak ang nasa gilid ko, kinurot ko ang tagiliran ng makulit na engineer.
"Why, hmm? Don't tell me you're being a scaredy-cat?"
"Sshh!" I put my finger on his lips, my eyes widening. "Manahimik ka, tara!"
Nang-aasar man ay sumunod s'ya sa akin, I get to choose at the dress shirts for
him. Nakatayo ako roon at namimili ng magandang kulay na babagay sa kanya.
He obediently stood infront of me habang itinatapat ko sa kanya ang mga nakuha
ko.
"I have enough clothes, baby." Aniya.
"No, let me." I said. "Punuin natin ang closet mo ng damit, ako ang mamimili,
gusto ko suotin mo, okay?"
"Alright, mommy." He grinned.
I froze, narinig ko ang tawa ng saleslady kaya hinarap ko s'ya. Bigla s'yang
naubo nang makita ako at nag-iwas ng tingin.
"Kukunin ko 'to," I said, pointing what I chose.
"O-Okay, Ma'am." Tumikhim s'ya at inabot ang mga napili ko.
Nang umalis ay muli akong nag-ikot at nakakita ng kulay pink na polo, may mga
bulaklak pa iyon na parang pang-outfit sa beach! It looks so cute, kinuha ko iyon
at itinapat kay Rai. This would look fun, I'm sure.
"Try mo nga," I smiled.
"This?" Turo n'ya sa damit.
"Yup!" I said.
He pouted, tumango at dumiretso sa fitting. Habang inaantay ko s'ya ay may
bagong saleslady na lumapit sa akin.
"Hi, Ma'am, ano pong sa atin?"
"Hello, okay na, may pinapasukat lang ako sa kasama ko." I smiled.
The fitting room opened, I was expecting I'd tease him but it all vanished when
I saw him walking.
The polo looks good on him, he tucked it on his pants, saktong-sakto sa katawan
at mas nakita ang magandang hubog ng katawan n'ya.
Nakatungo s'ya para tignan ang kanyang damit at nang mag-angat ng tingin at
nagkasalubong ang mata ay unti-unting umangat ang labi n'ya.
He smiled slowly, parang nagliwanag ang mata ko sa kakatitig sa kanya. Ang
pang-aasar sa kanya ay nawala at napalitan ng mangha.
"Ay, Sir! Bagay na bagay sa'yo!" The saleslady walked towards him.

He stopped walking, the lady went infront of him. She

touched Rai's collar, inaayos na may malaking ngiti.
 "Bagay sa'yo, Sir!" She giggled.
My forehead creased, ngumiwi ako at naglakad palapit.
"Hindi bagay," I spatted.
Rai looked at me, confused.
"No?" He asked.
"Ma'am, bagay naman--"
"Ayoko," I said, timidly. "Pangit, ayaw ko ng kulay."
I saw Rai suddenly smirked at me. I rolled my eyes at him and motioned my hand.
"No, hubarin mo." I said.
"Doon na--"
"Now na, hubarin mo ngayon." I raised my brow.
"O-Okay?" He said, nang makitang tinanggal n'ya ang isang butones ng shirt ay
umawang ang labi ko, I saw the eyes of the saleslady widened.
"B-Bakit...Bakit ka naghuhubad d'yan? Hala, pumasok ka doon!" I pointed the
fitting room.
"But you said--"
"Bilis, Miranda." I said and he nodded, pumunta sa fitting room at
napasimangot.
"Ay, Ma'am, ang gwapo po ng asawa n'yo!" Nalingon ko ang saleslady na may
malaking ngiti habang lumalapit.
"A-Asawa?"
"Opo, Ma'am, si Sir kanina! Bagay kayo, tsaka halatang inlove na inlove kasi
ang tingin sa'yo kanina nakakakilig!" She exclaimed.
My cheeks heated.
"M-Mukha ba kaming mag-asawa?"
"Ay, hindi ba, Ma'am?" Gulat s'yang napaharap sa akin. "Siguro po boyfriend?"
"Uh," I licked my lip, biglang kinilig na tingin n'ya ay mag-asawa kami.
"A-Actually, yes." I looked at her proudly. "He's my husband, pero h'wag ka
munang maingay, Miss. Secret pa kasi." I grinned.
"Oh, sige, Ma'am! Congrats!" Ngisi n'ya ng malaki.
Rai went out of the fitting room, he was carrying the clothes he wore, kinuha
kaagad 'yon ng saleslady, may malaki na namamanghang ngiti.
Rai immediately went to my side, inabot ang kamay ko at humalik sa ulo ko.
"Ma'am, ito na po ang binili n'yo." Ang saleslady kanina ay lumapit sa akin
dala ang card ko at ang mga damit sa paperbag.
Rai took it.
"Ito na po ba lahat?" She asked.
I immediately looked at the other saleslady holding the cute pink polo. She was
smiling widely at us.
"Uh, pasama na rin 'nung kay Miss." I said, pointing the polo.
"Ay, Ma'am, kunin n'yo na rin?" Gulat n'yang sabi.
I nodded, smiling widely.
"Bagay naman pala dito sa asawa ko, kaya sige." I nodded.
Nang umalis sila ay nakita ko ang ngisi ni Rai. I pouted, siniko ko s'ya at
natatawang niyakap n'ya ang baywang ko.
"Selosa," He teased playfully.
We dine and while eating our desserts, which is a cone of vanilla ice cream,
napadaan kami sa timezone.
My lips protruded when I saw a claw machine with bears inside. Umawang ang labi
ko at nakita na may mag-dyowa ata na naglalaro.
I saw the tall man gave the teddy bear to a beautiful lady beside him. The lady
giggled in happiness, napansin kong pinagtitinginan ang dalawa, ang iba'y may hawak
pang phone kaya tinuro ko kay Rai iyon.

"Daddy, look." I pointed the claw machine.

Rai looked at me and put his finger on the side of my lips, removing the ice
cream beside it before tasting it on his finger.
 "B-Bakit...hoy!" Nag-init ang pisngi ko.
He chuckled.
"Ang kalat mo kasi kumain. What is it?" He asked.
Muli kong tinuro ang komosyon doon sa timezone, I saw the couple getting a lot
of attention, nakakuha nanaman kasi iyong lalaking nakatalikod.
"Nievarez," He suddenly said and took my hand.
"Huh?" Dali-dali kong sinubo ang cone na natira at sumama sa kanya.
We went near the couple, napansing kinukuhaan sila ng pictures 'nung mga tao.
Bakit?
Nakakuha ulit ng teddybear. The lady clapped her hands happily when the man
gave it to her.
I pouted.
Sana all!
"Hoy, Alon." Rai suddenly called.
The man shifted his gaze at us, umawang ang labi ko nang makita ang tsokolate
at ang asul nitong mga mata.
"Wave!" I exclaimed.
The man suddenly grinned, the lady beside him gaze at us, her blue eyes
shimmering.
"Vioxx!" The lady cheered.
She hugged Rai, napanguso ako doon at nakita kong sumimangot si Wave.
"Asawa ko 'yan, gago." Ngiwi nito.
Rai laughed, lumayo naman ang babae bago umiling sa asawa.
"You're such a baby, mamaya na kita lambingin, okay?" She then shifted her gaze
at me, her wide smile didn't fade.
"Hi!" She said, cheerfully.
"H-Hi..." I smiled too, kinda amazed by her innocent beauty.
"Girlfriend ka ni Vioxx? I'm Zirena, Wave's wife, you are?" She offered her
hand.
"Uh, Sera." I said and accepted it.
"Hi, Sera! You're so pretty!" She cheered, nabigla pa ako ng bigla n'ya akong
yakapin.
Her cheerfulness made me smile, I was a bit taller than her but her voice is
lively and confident.
Naghiwalay kami. Kumapit s'ya sa braso ko at nahuli ko ang dalawang lalaking
nakangiti lang sa aming dalawa.
"Forgive my wife, Sera, she's overly excited with potential new friends." Wave
smiled lovingly and stared at his wife.
"You're so mean, Wavy." She murmured, inabot ang mga teddybear na nakuha sa
asawa n'ya bago ako binalingan. "I like Sera's beauty, sophisticated, tsaka, she's
taller than me!"
I chuckled.
"Kaunti lang naman,"
"Humble," She teased then gaze at Vioxx. "Ano, Vioxx? S'ya na ba ang the one?"
Rai smiled, glancing at me, nag-init naman ang pisngi ko at tumikhim.
"Yeah, just wishing she'll allow me to be his boyfriend now." He said.
"Oh, hindi mo pa sinasagot?" Nilingon ako ni Zirena.
"Uh, no." I tilted my head, glancing at Rai. "May usapan kasi kami, one year
s'yang manliligaw--"
"Baby!" Rai sulked.
"Oh," Zire grinned, akala ko ay may sasabihin pero paulit-ulit s'yang tumango
sa akin at nag-thumbs-up. "Good! Tama lang, wise decision."

"Zire!" Rai exclaimed and Wave laughed, tapping his

cousin's back.
"Goodluck, bro!" Wave smirked.
"Oh, ikaw ang dahilan siguro. He's been bitter for years, Sera." Lantad ni Zire
kaya nanlaki ang mata ko, I glanced at Rai who only looked away, blushing habang
humahalakhak naman si Wave sa tabi n'ya.
"What color do you want, baby?" Rai asked while we're infront of the claw
machine.
Wave is beside Vioxx, pinapanood ang pagtitig nito sa mga teddybears sa loob
while Zire remained beside me, yakap ang teddybears 'ya ay nanunuod din.
"Hmm, the white one." I pointed the bear near the exit point.
"Easy," Rai smirked, umayos ng tayo at nagstretching.
Napatawa si Wave at nakita kong nag-thumbs-up sa akin si Zire.
Rai glanced at me, nagtaka pa ako nang ilahad at ilapit sa akin ang pisngi
n'ya.
"What?"
"Goodluck kiss," Hingi n'ya.
Wave whistled, pinalo-palo naman ako ni Zire kaya nag-init ang pisngi ko sa
hiya.
"H-Huh?"
"Kiss," He showed me his cheek.
"Go! Go, Sera!" Zire giggled.
With my blushing face, I went closer to him, I was about to kiss his cheek when
he shifted his head, napasinghap ako nang tumama ang halik ko sa labi n'ya sa
biglang pagharap kaya mas kumalabog ang puso ko.
"Miranda!" Reklamo ko pero tumawa lang s'ya at kumindat.
"This is for you, baby." He said, bahagyang tumungo para maglaro sa claw
machine.
I am super excited, it was my first time seeing someone get teddybears in claw
machines like this.
Malaki ang ngiti, napapapalakpak pa habang umaangat sa ere ang napili ko.
"Ayan na!" I exclaimed, clapping my hands.
"Ayan! Oh my God!" I exclaimed when the bear suddenly fell before it could even
reach the exit.
"Shit, sayang!" Zire muttered.
"Fuck," Umayos ng tayo si Rai, muling nag-insert ng token at muling tumungo.
I am anticipating he'd get it this time, nakaawang ang labi ko. Pumapalakpak
habang inaantay na makuha pero muling nahulog.
"Ah!" I groaned in disappointment! Ang lapit na, sayang!
"One more," He said and cocked his head.
"You go, Miranda!" Minasahe pa ni Wave ang likod nito bago tinapik.
Nahulog ulit! Napahawak ako sa noo at ngumiwi.
Rai cursed, nakita kong pinapanood na kami ng iba pang mga tao roon. Wave and
Zire looked tensed too, nakita kong kinukurot na ni Zirena ang teddybear na hawak
sa gigil dahil nalalaglag lang ang kinukuha ni Rai.
A couple of attempts but it was still a failure.
"Buy me ten tokens again, Wave." Utos nito at umalis si Wave para sa tokens.
"Uhm, ano, tara na, Rai." I tugged his shirt when I saw him annoyed now.
Kumunot na ang noo at umigting ang panga.
"Rai,"
"I will get it for you, Sera." Aniya at seryosong tinitigan ang white teddybear
na lumayo na sa exit dahil sa paulit-ulit na attempt.

May daya ata itong machine na ito, ah!

"Ah, malayo na 'yong white eh, sige na kahit 'yong brown nalang--"
"No, you like the white one, I'll get you that fucking white teddybear." Giit
n'ya.
Dumating si Wave, bitbit ang tokens at walang sinayang na oras si Rai at muling
sumubok.
He became frustrated when it still failed, nasapo ko ang noo. Zire sighed and
Wave tsk-ed.
 "Rai, tama na, tara na..." Sinubukan kong hilahin ang damit n'ya pero hindi
s'ya nagpatalo.
"No, I swear, I'll get this one." Aniya at inilagay ang huling token.
My mouth parted when he did a great job at start. Tahimik kaming lahat at ang
mga tao habang inilalapit nito ang teddybear sa exit.
Hawak ko ang dibdib ko sa kaba, titili na sana nang malapit na sa exit pero
tila tumagilid ang claw at sa iba humagis ang teddybear.
"Shit..." I muttered and the crowd gasped too.
"May daya na 'to!" Rai groaned at ginalaw ang machine, iritado.
"Shit, Rai!" Hinawakan ko s'ya.
"Hindi eh, bakit sa iba tumatalsik?" Aniya. "Nasaan ang manager?!" He exclaimed
angrily.
"Oh my God!" Nasapo ko ang noo.
"Shit, Vioxx!" Wave laughed.
Rai's jaw clenched, ginalaw ang machine at halos hilahin ko na s'ya.
"Rai!"
He hissed, idinikit ang noo sa salamin at mariin ang tingin sa teddybear.
"Makukuha kita!" Turo n'ya doon sa laruan.
"Rai, we should go!" I exclaimed, embarassed and pulled him pero muli s'yang
bumalik, masama ang tingin sa machine.
"No," Bigla s'yang umiling at nagulat ako nang biglang hugutin n'ya ang wallet
sa bulsa sa likod. "How much is this fucking machine?"
"Oh my Gosh, Miranda." Nahilot ko ang sentido.
Binili n'ya ang claw machine.
We we're embrassed but he keeps on pushing it, hindi talaga umalis ng timezone
habang hindi nabibili. Kinausap pa ang manager at tawa ng tawa si Wave habang
kinukuhaan ng litrato si Rai, saying he'll send it to their cousins.
We rode Rai's car to Sta. Monica, luckily, Nanay came with us.
Wala man kaming masyadong interaksyon ay magaan ang loob ko dahil sumama s'ya
sa amin. I never told Migs about her, coming with me and like expected, he was
beyond happy when he saw her.
Nalaglag pa ang binabasang libro ng kapatid ko nang makita kami at tila may
humaplos sa puso ko nang makita ang Nanay na umiiyak habang yakap si Migs.
Tita Asunta didn't commented, nasabi ko sa kanyang isasama ko si Nanay at wala
akong narinig na pagtutol sa kanya. She accepted it, telling me she understand at
kahit alam ko hindi sila ayos ni Nanay ay naging civil sila sa isa't-isa.
I was happy, nothing would ruin my mood these days. I got Nanay and Migs with
me, nand'yan din sina Marco at Tita Asunta. Our plantation and company is doing
good.
Ayos na sana ang lahat pwera nalang sa pangit na engineer na iyon!
"Sera, aking irog." Ipinatong ni Intoy ang bote ng softdrinks sa tapat ko.
"Oh?" I asked, iritadong nag-s-scroll sa phone.
"Bakit ka nakasimangot? Ayos ka lang? Sayang ang ganda mo kung nakakunot ang
noo."

I glared at him, ngumisi s'ya at naupo sa kawayan sa

harapan ko.
"Bakit hindi ka nalang mag-duty sa barangay?" I muttered.
"Eh, na-miss kita, eh." He grinned. "Ilang linggo kang wala! Namiss kita dito,
walang magandang palakad-lakad sa may outpost!"
"Tss, ewan ko sa'yo, Intoy." I shook my head. Iritadong ibinaba ang phone ko sa
lamesa at suminghap, mabilis kong binuksan ang softdrinks at ininom.
"Bakit? Ano bang mayroon?" Aniya.
I shook my head, piniling h'wag magsalita.
"Ganyan talaga ang magmahal, Sera." Madamdamin n'yang sabi. "Kaysa itago mo
'yan, mas magandang ipagtapat mo nalang sa akin ang nararamdaman mo."
"What?" Napangisi ako.
 "Wala si Sandra, Sera. Prend ko lang 'yon." Aniya.
I bursted out laughing, nailing ako sa kanya at ngumisi.
"Bakit hindi mo nalang sagutin si Sandra? Tayong dalawa, Intoy, hanggang
friends lang." I said.
Ngumiwi s'ya.
"Sus, kunwari ka pa, may pagtingin ka sa akin! Kaya ilang taong wala kang
boypren kasi hindi ka makaamin sa akin."
"Wala kong boyfriend kasi may nilalaman na ang puso ko," I said.
He froze then looked at me.
"Talaga? Mas gwapo ba 'yan sa akin? Mas malaki ang muscle?" Ipinakita n'ya sa
akin ang patpating braso.
I chuckled.
"Plus na 'yong mukha pero iba kasi kapag mahal mo, Intoy." I said.
"Luh? Eh, basted nanaman ako?"
"Hoy, excuse me, hindi ko sinabi sa'yong manligaw ka!"
"Ano? Eh, bakit nababalitaan ko sa mga kaibigan mo, kina Jade. Kapag dumaraan
sa may outpost dati, sabi nila marami ka raw manliligaw na engineer?" Aniya.
"Oh? Wala, ah." I shook my head.
"Weh? Sa gandang 'yan, Sera?"
Natawa ako, umiling lang at muling uminom ng softdrinks.
"May mahal kasi ako, Intoy." I said, "Kaya kahit sinong manligaw, parang wala
na rin kasi may laman na 'tong puso ko."
Intoy is my friend, simula noong dumating ako rito ay naging mabuti s'yang
kaibigan sa akin. I remember it when I first met him, galing akong eskwela at
naligaw sa pauwi ng mansyon pero itinuro n'ya sa akin.
Barangay captain s'ya rito, simula noon ay binibiro n'ya akong crush n'ya ako
at manliligaw s'ya pero sinabi kong wala pa ako sa point na tatanggap ng ganoon.
I remained seated on the bamboo facing the large sugarcane plantation my family
owned. My real mother owned this with the firm, si Tita Asunta ay mga restobars at
ilang high-end hotels ang naipamana.
Kaunti lang silang magkakapatid, and Flores is an old, rich family. Sa mga
sinaunang henerasyon pa at napalago lalo ng mga sumunod na henerasyon.
My mother died of a brain tumor, hindi rin n'ya alam at noong nagbubuntis
lamang sa akin ay tsaka lang natanto.
She never want to sacrifice me so, she chose me instead of chemotherapy.
Naalagaan pa n'ya ako kahit sa kaunting panahon noong pinanganak ako but her
sickness got her from us. That sickness took Mama away from me.
Before she passed away, iniwan n'ya pa ako kay Tatay, she requested na h'wag
muna sa akin sabihing anak ako sa labas ni Tatay pero nalaman ko iyon noong bata
ako, noong narinig iyon mula sa away nila ni Nanay.

Nanay Divina's family were rich back then, it was an

arranged marriage kaya si Tatay ang pinili ni Nanay. Hindi man mayaman ang Tatay ay
gusto s'ya ni Nanay kaya napilit. Her family blackmailed Tatay and his family kaya
wala s'yang nagawa kung hindi ang sumunod.
That's when my Mama met him, hindi pa noon kasal si Nanay at Tatay, mayaman din
naman ang mga Flores at si Mama at Tatay talaga ang may gusto sa isa't-isa.
When my mother's parents found out about Mama's relationship with Tatay,
itinakwil s'ya at iyon ang ayaw mangyari ni Tatay. He broke up with Mama and chose
to be with Nanay because he can't give my Mama a good life.
He didn't know Mama was pregnant, ni hindi n'ya rin alam ang sakit nito kaya
noong nalaman n'yang wala na si Mama at ang batang iniwan sa tapat ng bahay namin
ay ako, nagluksa s'ya.
He dedicated his life to care for me and give me a good life, isang bagay na
hindi n'ya nagawa noon kay Mama.
Nanay's family got bankrupt, nabisto raw ang illegal na negosyo ng pamilya kaya
naghirap din.
 Tumitig ako sa madilim na langit at sa maliwanag na bituin, sa hindi kalayuan
ay abala ang mga tauhan habang nagniningas ng apoy sa mga kahoy para sa balak
nilang ihawin.
I saw how the fire danced beautifully on the dark night, tila nakakahalinang
hawakan kahit alam mo sa huling masasaktan ka sa init nito.
Developing story...
Famous Engineer Vioxx Miranda caught dining with the Mielldo's Jewelry sole
heiress.
Are they dating?
Muli kong tinitigan ang phone ko, iritado, I closed it again. Nakita ko ang
sunod-sunod na text ni Rai pero hindi ko sinagot.
Dating, huh? Really, Miranda?
Ni hindi tumawag sa akin kagabi! Ang sabi ay may handaan sila kina Caspian kasi
birthday ni Riu! Aba't, mababalitaan ko nalang na may date sa tagapagmana pa ng
jewelry company!
Eh, ano? Sure naman akong mas maganda ako! Huh, may jewelry company ka? Ako may
firm na, may plantation pa!
"Gigil na gigil, Sera?" Tawa ni Marco sa tabi ko. Nakisali na kami sa mga nag-
iihaw para malibang.
"Nothing, just..." I shook my head.
"Kay Engr. Miranda? I saw the article." Aniya.
Hindi ako umimik, muling tumitig sa apoy.
"Baka hindi naman totoo, Sera." Aniya.
"He never texted me, hindi sinabing may ganoong dinner. He said he'll only
party kasi birthday ng pamangkin n'ya. He texted me kaninang umaga lang!"
"Have you read his texts, then? Kanina pa umiilaw 'yang phone mo sa tawag at
text." Aniya.
I pouted.
"I am annoyed," I muttered.
"Kailan mo kakausapin?"
"Bukas na, kapag hindi na ako badtrip." I sighed.
He chuckled, ginulo n'ya ang buhok ko at pinisil ang ilong ko. "You see, I
really can't understand girls."
"I can't understand boys too," I spatted. "Sabi, party sa pamangkin tapos may
dinner ng tagapagmana! Ano, ganyan ba talaga kayo, huh?"
His eyes widen, itinaas ang kamay sa akin at natawa.
"Woah, I am not the enemy here. Bakit ako na?" He asked, amused.
I sighed, shaking my head.
"Oh, s'ya, para kumalma ka. Kumain ka muna." Aniya, inilahad sa akin ang mga
inihaw na isda.

I looked at it, tinitigan pero biglang nag-iba ang sikmura

ko sa amoy.
"Sera?"
"N-No..." Bigla akong tumayo. "Uh, excuse me." I said, napatakip ng bibig noong
umikot ang t'yan at tumakbo pabalik sa mansyon.
Nawalan na ako ng gana pagkatapos magsuka, I was tired and annoyed. Naparami
siguro ang kain kaninang umaga!
Iritado ako sa lahat, lalong-lalo na sa engineer na iyon!
I kept on receiving his texts, aniya'y magpapaliwanag daw. Business lang daw o
ano mang palusot n'ya.
I wanted to talk to him but not right now while I was still annoyed at him. Mas
magandang kapag kalmado na ako para maiintindihan ko ang point n'ya.
Ayaw kong sagutin ang tawag dahil baka masigawan ko s'ya sa inis. I don't wanna
be unreasonable.
Nakatulog ako habang ini-stalk ang babaeng kasama n'ya. She has no any other
photos with Rai sa ibang okasyon but she was tagged in photos with Rai doon sa
dinner nila.
Nagising lang ako sa katok ng kapatid ko sa kwarto, akala ko nga ay umaga na
kung hindi ko pa nakita ang madilim na langit sa may balcony.
I stood, inaantok na binuksan ang pinto at si Miggy ay malaki ang ngisi sa
akin.
"May bisita ka, Ateng!" He exclaimed.
I was confused, may muta pa ata ang mata pero hinila na ako palabas sa balcony
ng kwarto ko.
I was confused at first but my jaw dropped when I saw who are the people below
on the ground.
Napakurap-kurap pa ako nang makita si Rai doon sa ibaba, nakasuot ng barong. Sa
kanyang likod ay nakaupo si Wave, may hawak na gitara at ang magkapatid na Caspian
at Warrion ay nakatayo sa gilid, lahat ay nakabarong din.
"What..." I pointed him then looked at my brother.
"Sorry daw, sabi ni Kuya Rai." Ani Migs at ngumiti.
Dumungaw ako ulit sa ibaba at nakitang tumitikhim si Rai, nag-vovocalization pa
ata, pinapractice s'ya ni Caspian doon ng pasimple.
"Kuya! Dito na Ate ko!" Migs exclaimed.
Rai lifted his head, nagpanic naman silang lahat doon at tumikhim si Vioxx,
unti-unting inangat ang isang bulaklak na pinitas lang ata galing garden namin.
"Para sa iyo ito, aking minamahal na Serafine." He said in a straight, tagalog
tone and the guitar from Wave started making sounds I am not familiar with.
O, ilaw
Sa gabing malamig
Wangis mo'y
Bituin sa langit
He suddenly sang, my mouth parted when I realized it was an old harana song!
Wait, what the heck?
"O, Ilaw by Ruben Tagalog ang kanta, teng. Ako nagsuggest." Bida ni Migs pero
nakaawang lang ang labi ko.
O, tanglaw
Sa gabing tahimik
Larawan mo, Neneng
Nagbigay pasakit
Kumupas-kupas pa ang kamay ni Rai doon habang kumakanta at nakatingala sa akin,
akala mo ay makata. Wave looks anxious strumming the guitar, mukhang hindi rin
sigurado sa tinutugtog.
Buksan ang bintana
At ako'y dungawin
Nang mapagtanto mo
Ang tunay kong pagdaing
Caspian started dancing, nanlaki ang mata ko nang kumendeng-kendeng s'ya doon
sa likod. Warrion remained stoic, hindi gumagalaw pero siniko at binulungan ng
kapatid. Napipilitan, nakisabay s'ya. Ang marahang kendeng nila roon ay naiba,
itinaas nila ang kamay at halos masapo ko ang noo nang ang steps nila ay sa pearly
shell na.
O, ilaw
Sa gabing malamig
Wangis mo'y
Bituin sa langit
I scratched my nose and stopped myself from laughing hard noong pumiyok si Rai.
Tumaas na ang kanya kaya naiba ang boses n'ya. Tumikhim at nagpatuloy.
Miggy was laughing hard, nagvivideo na pala sa gilid.
Sa hindi kalayuan ay nakita ko ang tanod na nagroronda na dahil gabi na. My
smile widened.
Bumaba ang tingin ko sa ibaba, katatapos lang kumanta ni Rai pero kumekendeng
pa rin ang dalawang Alcantara sa likod habang si Wave ay mapupudpod na ata ang
daliri sa gitara para may background music ang pinsan.
"Aking mahal na Serafine, nawa'y ako ay iyong patawarin." Aniya sa buong boses.
 "Hindi ko maiisip na ikaw ay mawawalay sa akin." Biglang tula na pala ang
sinasabi n'ya.
"Ikaw lang ang mahal, wala ng iba." Aniya, confident.
I just smiled sweetly at him. Nakita kong ngumisi si Rai akala siguro ay bati
na kami.
Slowly, I took my phone, mabilis na dinial ang pangalan ni Intoy sa contacts
dahil paniguradomg kasama s'ya sa nagrorondang mga tanod.
Dinala ko ang phone sa tenga, nakangisi pa rin kay Rai. Tuloy-tuloy s'ya sa
pagtula sa ibaba.
"Intoy," I said.
"Bakit, darling?" Ani Intoy na sinamahan ng hagikhik.
"Kasama ka ba sa mga nagtatanod ngayon?" I asked.
"Oo, bakit? Medyo maingay sa mansyon n'yo, ah? Bakit? Malapit na kami d'yan."
Aniya sa kabilang linya.
"Kasi...may ipapasuyo sana ako." Lambing ko pa.
"Anything for you, my darling." Ani Intoy.
My smile widened, nagtutula pa si Rai doon sa ibaba pero natatawa na ako.
"Kasi, may mga adik dito sa may gate namin, ipapatanod ko sana." I said,
sweetly.
"Huh?! Oh, s'ya, sige! Intoy to the rescue!" Aniya. Tumatakbo na ata kaya
ibinaba ko ang phone.
Sa kalayuan ay nakita ko ang papalapit na tanod, ngumisi ako doon sa ibaba at
nakitang seryoso ang magpipinsan.
"Ika'y hindi ipagpapalit--hoy, Warren, hindi ko makita!" He hissed.
Nagulat pa ako doon kaya mas dumungaw at halos mapatakip sa bibig para
mapigilan ang tawa nang makitang nasa may harapan ni Rai si Warren, may hawak na
manila paper, kodigo sa tula ng engineer.
"Ika'y hindi ipagpapalit, kanino man din." Basa n'ya doon sa manila paper at
ngumisi. Nag-angat s'ya ng tingin sa akin.
"Serafine, baby--" Natigil bigla ang magpipinsan nang biglang may sumipa sa
gate, biglang pumasok sina Intoy kasama ang ibang mga team tanod forces at may
hawak na batuta.
"What the fuck--" Rai cursed, s'ya ang pinunterya ni Intoy at ang ibang tanod
ang mga pinsan n'ya palabas ng gate.
"Baby!" Rai exclaimed and I just grinned, blew him a flying kiss and winked.
"Puntahan nalang kita sa barangay hall, Daddy!" I screamed and waved cutely.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 29

Wow! Didn't know we'll making it this far! This is second

to the last chapter of Dancing With Fire!
April ngayon eh, sarap sana magpost ng walang laman tapos sasabihin kong "Issa
prankkkk" kaso mabait na ako hahahahaha #changedperson.
Anyway, enjoy! (This is the longest chap I've written for this story so far.)
xxx
Kabanata 29
Nakapaywang ako habang nakatingin sa limang lalaki sa harapan ko.
Good thing, Migs fell asleep. Si Nanay ay nasa kwarto na rin kaya mabilis na
makakausap ko iyong lima.
I pulled them out of the barangay hall earlier, ayaw pa sanang pumayag ni Intoy
pero nakiusap akong ako na ang bahala kaya hinayaan n'ya nalang ako.
"Bakit gabi kayo nandito, huh?" I said.
Tahimik iyong lima, Caspian remained smiling samantalang sina War, Warren at
Wave ay nanahimik.
"Susuyo lang, eh." Ungot ni Miranda, nakanguso.
 "Talagang dinamay mo pa ang mga pinsan mo?" I raised my brow.
"H-Hindi..." I eyed him and he shut up immediately.
"May curfew dito sa amin kaya bawal na tumambay sa labas ng ganitong oras." I
looked at the clock. "It's two in the morning, sinong nag-isip na mangharana ng
ala-una?"
Kaagad na nagsituruan ang magpipinsan kay Rai.
"It's not good to serenade when the sun is still out--"
"Ano? Bakit hindi? Hindi mo ba naisip na tulog na ako?" Pagsusungit ko.
"Sorry," He pouted.
Nag-iwas ako ng tingin ng makitang malungkot na s'ya. I proceeded to talking.
"At bakit nadamay ang mga pinsan mo rito sa kalokohan mo?"
"They were at fault too!" Bigla n'yang turo kay Caspian. "Birthday ni Riu
'nun--"
"Hoy, h'wag mong idamay anak ko." Caspian hissed then looked at me. "Inosente
ko, Sera. Si Vioxx nalang awayin mo, nadawit lang kami."
I eyed him again.
"Sorry na..." He pouted more. "Kasi nilasing nila ako, hindi ko rin nasend ang
message ko kasi nakatulog na ako sa upuan." Paliwanag n'ya.
"War..." I said, sabay na tumingin sa akin si Warren at Warrion kaya natigilan
ako.
"I'm War," Ani Warrion na nakasimangot na habang nakatingin kay Warren na
nangingisi.
"I'm War too," Warren said.
"I'm War!" Warrion hissed. "Win calls me that, kaya ako si War!"
"War din tawag sa akin ni Win." He grinned.
"Winter! Ako lang pwedeng tumawag na Win sa asawa ko." Giit nito.
Nagtagisan sila ng tingin, tumatawa na sina Caspian at Wave sa bangayan nung
dalawa. Rai remained pouting, nakatitig sa akin.
"Ako rin--"
"Gusto mong pasabugin kita--"
"Enough, tama na." I stopped them both. "I was actually referring to Warrion."
"See?" Warrion hissed then smirked. "Ako si War, tang ina mo."
"Alright, my darling." Biglang asar ni Warren dito. May eyes widen when he
hugged Warrion's waist and rested his head on his shoulders.

"If you say so. Alam mo namang sa'yo lang ako

kakalampag..." Warren murmured in a soft voice.
Nanlaki ang mata ko.
"What--fuck! Get off!" Warrion hissed at tumawa si Caspian, kumukuha pa ng
video at humahagikhik.
Nang kumalma na ang dalawa ay binalingan ko ulit sila.
"Anong oras nagstart ang party ni Riu?"
"Eight, Sera." Caspian answered.
"Hmm," I nodded then looked at suspiciously at Rai who was just pouting, he was
crossing his arms.
"Care to explain me who the hell is that woman?"
"It's just business, baby." He explained.
"Uh-huh?" I raised my brow.
"Oh, Sera!" Biglang nagtaas ng kamay si Cas kaya nilingon ko s'ya at tinuro.
"Yes?"
"Alam mo ba, late dumating si Vioxx. Mga eight-thirty." He said noisily and
grinned. "Share ko lang!"
"Fuck you, Alcantara!" Rai exclaimed. "I was stuck in the fucking traffic--"
"No cursing!" I exclaimed and he stopped, pouting at me more.
"Baby..." He whined.
"Well, I commend what you all did earlier. It's great. Pero sinong pumili
n'yang outfit n'yo? Mukha kayong ibuburol." I said and they all froze.
 "Si Caspian," Warren motioned.
"Bakit maganda naman!" Cas exclaimed, "Tsaka nang-haharana tayo mga ulupong.
Anong gusto n'yo? May gitara tayo oh, kaya dapat makaluma."
"Well, I did the guitar and my fingers fucking hurts." Wave raised his hand and
showed me his reddish fingers.
Nangiwi ako roon at napailing.
"Lagyan natin ng cold ice later," I said then gaze at them again.
"Super bet ang performance n'yo kanina pero I suggest next time, parang mas
gusto ko 'yong tatapak kayo sa bubog at bubuga ng apoy." I suggested and they were
quiet until Wave spoke.
"Yeah, well, Caspian knows that too well. He's a magician, after all." Wave
commented pointing the annoyed caspian.
Then he grinned and raised his hand playfully. "Share ko lang din."
He said, natawa ako nang magbangayan na sila roon. I was shaking my head while
looking at them.
Si Rai ay wala pa sana sa mood makipaglaro pero nang batukan s'ya ni Caspian ay
nakigulo na.
I smiled while looking at them and suddenly noticed someone's absence.
"Anyway, guys." I said, stopping them then looked at me. "Nasaan iyong gwapong
Lucian?"
They all turned to a sour face until they all exclaimed in unison.
"Wala!" They said and I was left dumbfounded.
Hinatid ko sa malaking guestroom ang magpipinsan, they settled themselves to
the two king beds.
"Ako dito sa gilid!" Biglang takbo ni Caspian sa kama at kuha ng unan.
"Ako doon sa kabilang gilid!" Warren ran inside too.
I saw Wave walked inside, si Warrion ay tila tuod na naglalakad papasok
hanggang sa hinila s'ya ni Warren.
"Darling, tabi tayo--"
"Fuck you!" Tinakpan n'ya ang mukha ni Warren ng unan kaya natawa ako.
Wave sat beside Caspian, habang nagpapatayan ang dalawang War doon sa gilid ay
parang mababait na batang nakaupo iyong dalawa.

Cas was hugging a pillow while swinging his feet, when he

saw Wave swinging his feet too, binigyan n'ya ito ng unan kaya niyakap din ng huli.
"Wait, sabay tayo." Ani Caspian at sabay silang tumingin sa mga paa nila habang
may yakap na unan.
"Okay, game." Wave said and they adorably swing their feet at the same time.
I was smiling, nagulat pa nang biglang may yumakap sa likod ko kaya mabilis
akong napatingin.
Rai was kissing my neck, mahigpit ang yakap sa akin.
"Punta na tayo sa kwarto," He whispered.
"Huh?" I glanced at him curiously.
"Sleepy," He yawned and nuzzled my neck. "Let's go to our room."
"Patola ka ba?" I hissed.
"Bakit?" Aniya.
"Huh? Anong bakit?" I asked.
"You're asking a pick-up line so--"
"No," Natawa ako at mas nilingon s'ya. "It isn't a cheesy pick-up line, dito ka
matutulog sa mga pinsan mo!"
"What?!" He exclaimed exaggeratedly. "No...baby."
"No, you stay here." I said.
"Where will I sleep? They brutes occupied the bed!"
"Aba, edi sa lapag ka." I said and he pouted.
"Sera..."
"Punishment mo 'yan! You've been a bad daddy!" Hinarap ko s'ya.
Pinilit n'ya ang sarili sa aking leeg, he keeps on hugging my waist but my
decision is firm.
"No, you're a bad boy. Stay here, usap tayo bukas. Magpaliwanag ka."
"I can explain myself in bed--"
"At ano? Maninira nanaman tayo ng gamit?" I hissed.
His smile widened.
"Well, baby, I think the furnitures here is pretty strong--"
"Susi mo strong," I rolled my eyes and flicked his forehead. "Go, sleep. I'm so
sleepy too, inistorbo n'yo ako."
"Baby..."
"No, Rai. When I say no, no talaga. Pupunta ako sa kwarto." I said, walking out
of the room but he immediate followed me.
Napairap pa nang akbayan ako at hulihin.
"Baby girl," He called.
"Bawal nga, daddy!" I hissed.
"Hatid nalang kita? Please, hindi ako manggugulo." He said and it is pretty
simple so I said yes.
Tahimik naman ang buhay ko, maybe because I was so tired and consumed today, I
slept the moment my back touched the bed nasira nga lang nang may maramdaman ako sa
batok ko.
It was soft, tila ay dumadampi at nagising ako bigla, sa takot na ipis iyon
kaya mabilis akong umikot at hinampas ang kamay ko.
"Ouch!" My eyes widen when I heard a voice, napaayos ako at nagitla nang
makitang nasampal ko si Rai!
"O-Oh my god, I'm sorry!" I exclaimed.
Ngumiwi s'ya, napaupo ako sa kama at hinaplos ang pisngi n'yang nasampal ko.
"I was just shocked!" I said, "Akala ko ipis so, I smacked it. I'm so sorry,
baby." I said, kissing his cheek.
Sa dim na ilaw ay kita ko ang pagpula ng pisngi n'ya kaya napasinghap pa ako.

"Sorry, sorry..." I muttered.

"It's alright," He said, taking my hand on his cheek and bringing it to his
lips.
"Rai..."
"It's okay, sorry to wake you up, baby." Aniya at hinila ako palapit sa kanya.
I rested my head on his arms and he cuddled me.
"Bakit ka nandito? Tsaka anong ginagawa mo sa batok ko?" I asked.
"I just want a kiss," He muttered. "And I can't sleep in that room. That
fuckers are pain in the ass."
"Hmm? Why?" I looked at him curiously.
"They still won't sleep, nabuksan ang TV n'yo kaya nagmomovie marathon sila."
Aniya.
I chuckled then nodded.
"Well, they're cute." I chuckled.
Sumambakol ang mukha n'ya.
"Pero mas gwapo ka!" I laughed, pinching his nose. "Arte mo, engineer."
Nagkatitigan kami, he moved a bit and kissed my lips.
"Are you still mad?" He whispered, hugging me.
"I was...just annoyed." I sighed. "Sino bang matutuwa kung may mabalitaan akong
ka-date mo?"
"Baby, it's only business." He said.
"I mean, okay, she's a heiress in a jewelry company. I know it's big, I
shouldn't feel insecure kasi ako rin naman, ah!" I exclaimed. "I-I own a firm and I
got my plantation--"
"I love you, Serafine." He said, cutting me.
Napasinghap ako at tumango.
"I-I know," I said in a small voice. "J-Just you know, I was a bit scared. I am
scared you might find someone more...more wonderful. Someone who would love you
more, kasi di ba? Ako...Ako ilang beses kitang tinanggihan." I sighed.
"Sera..." He caressed my face.
"N-Natatakot ako na baka matanto mong mas maraming babaeng babagay sa'yo. I did
nothing but to hurt you, I am selfish and--"
"You weren't even close to being selfish, Serafine." He cut me off. "You are
the most selfless person I'd ever know."
"P-Paano kung makahanap ka ng mas better?" I whispered.
He chuckled a bit, catching my eyes.
"Why would I find someone better if I got the best one?" His lips lifted.
I pouted.
"Well, baby? Tell me, sa ngayon ba hindi mo pa rin natatanto kung gaano ako
kabaliw sa'yo?"
"You are?" I muttered.
He chuckled, pinching my cheeks.
"I love you, Serafine. If this love isn't true, sa tingin mo ay nandito pa rin
ako at nagmamakaawa sa atensyon mo?"
"Hindi..."
"That's it, then. Wala nang mas gaganda o mas hihigit pa sa'yo kasi ikaw ang
pinaka sa kanilang lahat."
"Rai..." I whispered.
"You're the light that lit the fire inside me, Sera. Kung wala ka? I don't
think I am what I am now. I think I am still hiding in my mother's shadow. Oo ng oo
kasi gusto kong mahalin n'ya ako kahit hindi n'ya ako anak." He muttered.
"If it weren't for you, I might still lurking around, walking in the dark with
no light and direction at all. I stood out on my own because of you, gusto kong
magkaroon ng akin dahil sa'yo. I don't think I have my own company now kung hindi
ako umalis sa poder nila."

"Anong kinalaman ko doon? You did it all, Rai. You strived

hard to build what you have now."
"You're my inspiration," He smiled. "You think I had the guts to go against my
mother if it wasn't for you?"
"Ih," I pouted. "Binobola mo ata ako?"
"No, silly." He laughed, kissing the tip of my nose.
"K-Kahit iniwan kita noon? I...I was so pressured that time and I don't know
what to do." I whispered.
"I understand," He said, his dark eyes resembling mine. "I know I pressured you
so, I didn't pushed through it. I am sorry because I was insensitive."
"S-Sorry, hindi rin tama ang ginawa ko, I could have explained why I won't say
yes pero sa halip, iniwan kita. I am so sorry, Rai. Natanto ko lang noong nakita
kitang umalis...tapos...hindi kita naabutan." I sighed.
"I wanted to give you time," He said. "To think, ayaw kong maapektuhan ko ang
kinabukasan at pangarap mo kaya ako umalis. Thought, I was a hindrance to your
dreams--"
"N-No..." I shook my head. "You weren't a hindrance, sobrang dami ko lang
iniisip noon, Rai. Ang kapatid ko, ang kinabukasan ko, ang tiwala ko sa'yo, lahat.
Kaya siguro naguluhan ako at natakot. Nasa utak ko lang noon ay ang responsibilidad
ko at ang mga bagay na kakaharapin ko sa negosyo. I was so pressured so, I
declined."
"I understand..." He smiled again.
"You left to gave me time?" I asked.
"Hmm," He nodded. "I watched you from afar, tho."
"W-Weh?" I blinked.
"Yeah," He smiled playfully. "I watched silently while you reach your dreams."
"Will you even chase me after that? Are you even planning to?"
"Of course," He smirked. "Nah, I won't just give my baby to other man. You're
mine, Sera."
 "Ows?" I raised my brow. "Talaga ba? I don't think magkikita tayo kung hindi
lang sa project ng Lost Island."
"That was planned, anyway."
"What?!" Namilog ang mata ko.
He chuckled deeply, hugging me again.
"Yes, my baby girl. Nakisama nga lang ang tadhana at nagkakilala kayo ni Lars
kaya s'ya mismo ang nagdala sa'yo sa akin unknowingly. If ever not, I'd still ask
them to get you." He grinned.
"Talaga ba?!"
"Yes," He laughed again.
"Eh, bakit ang suplado mo noong una? Akala mo talaga eh, no!" I exclaimed.
"Well, pa-effect lang. Hindi naman pwedeng una palang lalandiin na kita,
sobrang rupok ko naman kung ganoon." He spatted.
"Sabagay, pero marupok ka rin naman, ah. Kunwari ka pa 'nun na iaakyat na sa
yate ang bagahe, iritado ka lang pala kay Engr. Silvano!" I exclaimed.
Laughing, he kissed my head.
"I can't stop myself, I'm annoyed. Hindi ko na nga pinakialaman ang manliligaw
mo sa firm n'yo. You're such a playgirl, huh?"
"I never entertained one," I rolled my eyes. "Akala mo ba madaling makamove-on
sa'yo?"
"No," He grinned at me. "Pero talaga ba?"
"H'wag lalaki ang ulo!" I laughed.
"It was all planned, the construction, lalandiin kita, manliligaw. Hindi nga
lang planado na masira 'yong kama--"

"Miranda!" I exclaimed.
He laughed, touching my waist and winking.
I shook my head then glance at him. "Pero ano ngang business mo doon sa babae?"
He was left dumbfounded.
"Hmm," I raised my brow. "Ano, Miranda? Sagot!"
"Next time, baby. I can't answer--"
"Impossibleng construction iyon, eh, ang business ay jewelry!" I spatted.
Ngumuso lang s'ya.
"Rai," I called.
"Soon, baby? Okay? Right now, let's talk about that barangay captain of
yours--"
"Inaano ka ni Intoy?" Kumunot ang noo ko.
"Intoy, huh? Ano iyon, manliligaw mo rin?"
"H'wag mong ibahin ang usapan, we were talking about that heiress of yours. Ano
iyong business, huh?"
"Wala, Serafine. I'll tell you but not now. Let's talk first about your boy--"
"Wala nga akong lalaki!" I exclaimed, iritado na sa kanya. "Bakit mo nililipat
sa akin?"
"Gwen is nothing--"
"Huh! Gwen? First name basis kayo?" Napaupo na ako sa irita.
"Kumusta naman 'yang Intoy mo? Anong tawag sa'yo? Darling? Ang corny ang
puta--"
"Bakit mo ako sinisigawan?!" I exclaimed.
Napaupo s'ya at tinitigan ako.
"I am not shouting, Serafine--"
"Oh, look! Galit ka naman!" My eyes swelled. "W-Wala naman akong ginagawa!
Bakit mo ko inaaway!"
He sighed.
"Serafine--"
"Sabing wala nga kong lalaki! Pinagbibintangan mo ko! Bakit mo ko inaaway?!" My
tears fell.
"What...the hell..."
 "Minumura mo ko?!" Hinawi ko ang luha ko.
"No!" His eyes widen. "Fuck...shit, baby, why are you crying?"
"Baby na! Kanina kung makatawag ka sa aking Serafine!" I exclaimed.
"Baby..." Inabot n'ya ako pero tinampal ko s'ya, humikbi ako at mabilis na
nagtakip ng kumot.
"Baby," He whispered. "I'm sorry...I'm not shouting, stop crying."
He touched the blanket.
"H'wag mo ko hawakan! Alis ka doon!" I sobbed.
"Sera..." He whispered. "I'm sorry, hindi na..."
"Ayaw! No!"
"Gwen was nothing," He explained.
"Okay!" I exclaimed.
"Baby..."
"Hmp!" I sulked.
"Okay, I personally asked her to meet me." Aniya at kaagad akong nairita.
"Kita mo na!" I exclaimed.
"Let me finish, okay? Hmm?" Hindi ako umimik at suminghot.
"She has good eyes and hands in terms of jewelries so, I asked her."
Huh, talagang napansin n'ya ang mata at kamay 'nung babae!
"I asked her to make the ring I personally designed for you." He said.

I froze, mabilis kong naibaba ang kumot sa mukha ko, hindi

na napunasan ang luha sa pisngi ko.
"T-Talaga?" Silip ko sa kumot.
He stared at me, nodding.
"Yes,"
"H-Hala...eh, di ba, dapat surprise? B-Bakit mo sinabi sa akin?" I whispered.
"Well, do I have a choice?" He smiled.
I rose from the bed, dinamba ko s'ya ng yakap at sumubsob sa leeg n'ya.
"S-Sorry,"
"It's fine," He chuckled. "Hindi na nga lang surprise kasi sinabi ko na."
Lumayo ako at tinitigan s'ya.
"K-Kailan mo ako tatanungin? Dapat maayos ako n'yan, naka-dress, ganoon..."
He chuckled, pinching my nose and caressed my cheek.
"I love you, baby, but that's too much surprises now. I won't tell you when."
I pouted, natulala pa ako sa harapan n'ya kaya mabilis n'ya akong nabuhat paupo
sa hita n'ya.
"You won't cry na?" Lambing n'ya, pinaraan ang ilong sa pisngi ko.
"I feel bad..." I silently whispered. "I-I don't want naman to be a nagger but
bigla akong naiinis. Napilit tuloy kitang sabihin, I'm sorry."
He chuckled on my ear, kissing my cheek.
"We're moody now, aren't we?" He asked playfully then hisnhand slowly crawl on
my stomach. "Hindi kaya may laman?"
I froze, tumitig ako sa kamay n'ya sa t'yan ko at napakurap bago s'ya
sinulyapan bago natawa bigla.
"Hotdog mo, may laman." I spatted.
His face fell, natawa naman ako at hinuli ang labi n'ya para sa halik.
I stared again at the invitation given to me by Miranda Firm for an anniversary
party celebration.
It was okay if it was Rai's but this came from the company his mom is managing!
"I won't force you to come with me," Rai asked again for the nth time.
"I can do it, Rai. Isa pa, I am invited too." I said, kinda nervous.
"We can still go home, baby. If you weren't comfortable going, then..."
"I'm nervous but I can do this, Rai." I sighed, glancing at him again. I took
his hand and slowly caressed it. "Maybe it's time now to face your mother? You
haven't seen her for years too, right?"
"I missed her too but it's you I've been worrying about. I don't think I can
stop myself from arguing with her if she says something harsh." Pumikit s'ya ng
mariin.
I smiled and chuckled, inabot ko ang mukha at marahang hinaplos ang kanyang
panga.
"No need to protect me, I am strong, right? I can handle myself." I smiled.
He sighed, hinaplos ang kamay ko sa kanyang panga at dinala sa kanyang labi.
"Alright, I love you."
"I love you too," I grinned. "Pero manliligaw ka ng one year pa rin."
He chuckled, lumabas s'ya, inalalayan ako palabas ng sasakyan.
The moment we step on the red carpet, the camera flashes almost blinded me.
I am not too exposed with things like this but Rai looks like he really is. He
held my waist, nagulat naman ako sa biglaang paglabas ng mga reporter sa gilid at
lahad sa amin ng microphone.

"Who are you, Miss? Are you dating Engr. Miranda?"

"What can you say about Engr. Miranda's dating rumor with Mielldo's heiress?"
"Engr. Miranda! Who is your date?"
"Engr. Miranda! Are you going back to Miranda Firm?"
"Miss? Who are you wearing?"
"Is it true that you're a gold-digger?" Ani ng isang babaeng reporter.
Nagulat ako roon, natahimik ang iba sa tanong at napasulyap sa akin.
I froze, I saw how Rai shifted his gaze to the woman, his cold eyes are sharp.
Mas dumami ang kumuha ng litrato.
Napapikit ako bigla nang marahang iniharang ni Rai ang kamay sa mukha ko para
hindi matamaan ng flash.
"Don't do you dare talk like that with my girlfriend," He said timidly.
Mas nagkagulo ang press pagkarinig 'nun.
Mas naging maingay ang pagtatanong kung sino ako pero diretso lang kami
papasok.
"Flores s'ya!" I heard someone exclaimed.
"Flores? Serafine Flores?" They asked.
"Engr. Flores!" They immediately called me pero hindi na ako lumingon.
Nakahinga lang ng maluwang noong nakapasok na, I saw Rai's annoyed face.
"Sorry, baby, I didn't know they'll be like that."
"I understand," I smiled at him, taking his hand. "Pero liar ka, hindi pa kita
sinasagot, ah?"
"Well..." He grinned, natawa ako nang hapitin n'ya ang baywang ko at dampian
ako ng halik sa pisngi.
Huli ko na nang mapansing pinagtitinginan na kami, napaayos ako ng tayo.
Rai's smile faded but he didn't let me go, instead we walked in the middle to
get to our seat.
An usher assisted us immediately, I saw the stares and glances of the people
around.
I saw some familiar faces from my clients and members of the board.
They waved at me and I smiled and nodded.
Rai offered me a chair, nang maupo ay umupo rin s'ya kaagad sa aking tabi. I
noticed that their attention is on us, siguro ay dahil ngayon lang ulit pumunta si
Rai sa parties ng ina o hindi kaya ay dahil may babae s'yang kasama?
"Focus your attention on me." A soft whisper said.
I chuckled, glancing at me with a smile.
"What? I'm focusing on you." I smiled.
"Uh-huh." He put his hand on my back, ipinatong ito sa upuan ko. Then, he
slowly caressed my exposed arm.
"You looked stunning." He whispered.
"Everyday naman,"
"Yeah, I know." He smiled again.
I am wearing a bias cut, black sparkling evening gown. It fits perfectly in my
body. My hair is ironed-straight and I remembered how I looked so maldita when I
glance at myself in the mirror.
The event started, I saw Chairwoman Miranda on her seat infront with her
husband.
She was glancing at us, to his son sitting beside me.
"You should greet your mom." I whispered.
"Later." He said and took my hand, his finger slowly moved on my palm. Nang
hulihin ko ang daliri n'ya ay natawa s'ya.

Pagkatapos magsimula ng emcee sa introduction ay pumunta sa

harapan sina Mr. and Mrs. Miranda.
The two looked at us while Rai remained silent beside me. He was just cold,
kita ko ang pagkunot ng noo at pagbasa ng labi habang nakikinig.
While having dinner, other guests decided to go infront to pay respect and say
hello to the hosts.
"We should go," I said and Rai looked at me and then in front.
"You should eat first, I know you're hungry."
I nodded, magkasabay kaming pumunta sa buffet table. I was holding a plate
while Rai placed himself beside me, ako na sana ang magbibigay pero nagpresinta
s'yang s'ya ang maglalagay sa akin.
"Thanks." I smiled at him but my smile faded when I saw familiar faces in the
crowd.
I saw Gino, Jenny and Jesusa sitting in the middle part of the crowd.
Gino was staring at me intently, his forehead creased as he glance at the man
beside me.
Jesusa looked annoyed, nakita kong gusto n'yang tumayo nang nagkatinginan kami
pero hinila s'ya ni Jenny paupo at pinagsabihan.
They might be engineers by now.
"Is this alright, baby?" Rai asked, bumaba ang tingin ko sa pinggan at umawang
ang labi ko.
"T-This is too much!" I exclaimed.
"Nah, it isn't."
"I can't finish this all, Rai."
"Then I'll eat your excess." He smirked.
Wala na akong nagawa kung hindi ang pumayag, sa muling pagsulyap ko sa mga
dating kaibigan ay nakita kong sinundan nila ako ng tingin.
Hindi ko alam kung bakit ang arte ko sa pagkain, marami akong inayawan kaya
walang nagawa si Rai kung hindi kainin ang mga tira ko.
"Sorry, baby. I just feel so bloated." I pouted, staring at him as he ate my
food.
"It's alright, busog ka na ba?"
"Yeah," bulong ko at kumuha ng tissue para punasan ang kalat sa gilid ng labi
n'ya.
Pagkatapos ay napilit ko na si Rai na pumunta kami sa mga magulang n'ya.
Kinakabahan man ay pinakita ko sa kanyang ayos lang ang lahat. I'm afraid he'd
say we should just go back to our seats if he found out I was nervous talking to
his mother.
I can still remember what happened in the past at alam ko ring hindi tama ang
ginawa n'ya pero kailangang civil kami sa isa't-isa.
"Engr. Miranda," Habang papunta kami roon nakita kong tinawag s'ya ng iba para
makipagkamay.
He greeted them back, a cold smile plastered on his face.
"It's good seeing you here," Bati nito, the old man then glance at me and
cocked his head.
"You're with someone, I see." He smiled.
"I'm with my girlfriend, Sera Mendez." He said.
The old man nodded, smiling at me then stared. "You look familiar, hija. Are
you, perhaps, related to the Flores clan? Kamukha mo kasi si Asunta."
"Uhm, she's my autie. I'm a Flores, Sir." I smiled.
"Oh!" His eyes widen. "Sera? Serafine Flores? Am I right?"
"Yes po," I smiled.
"God, ikaw pala iyon!" I was startled when he suddenly offered his hand. "It's
nice meeting you! Finally!"

"Nice meeting you too, Sir." I accepted his hand.

"I actually didn't know what you looked like, kamukha mo talaga kasi ang auntie
mo! Well, I tried setting a meeting with your firm but you have a lot of projects!"
He exclaimed happily then stared at Rai and laughed.
"No offense, Engr. Miranda, but your girlfriend's firm is pretty popular!"
"It's alright," He smiled, mas humaplos s'ya sa baywang ko. A proud smile on
his face is evident.
"Anyway, I would grab this opportunity to set a meeting with you." Napangiti
ako nang makitang naglabas s'ya ng calling card at inabot sa akin.
"I'll gladly send an invite for a meeting, Sir." I smiled.
"Thank you, Engr. Flores!" He then laughed and tapped Rai's shoulder. "You got
a pretty good girl right there, Engr. Miranda!"
Pagkaalis ng matanda ay nagkatinginan kami ni Rai. Sabay kaming natawa at
pinagpagan ko ng pabiro ang kanyang balikat.
"Well, you're lucky, Engr. Miranda?" I raised my brow.
"I'm pretty lucky, I guess." He winked playfully.
My heart beat rapidly the moment we came face to face with the Mirandas. I was
straight face but I was near puking because of this nervousness.
"Son," Mr. Miranda called Rai.
"Dad," He called, giving his a manly hug.
I glance at Mrs. Miranda and saw her strict yet worried face, she glanced at
Rai and sighed, offering her hand to him.
"You're here, son." She whispered.
My heart soften when I saw how Rai accepted her hand. Mrs. Miranda pulled him
softly for a tight hug and I saw her bit her lip.
"I'm so sorry, son." She said.
Nanatili akong nakatayo sa likuran nila, I noticed Mr. Miranda smiled at me and
I smiled back at him.
"Sir," I greeted.
"You must be Serafine Flores?" He asked.
"Yes, Sir, but my surname should be Mendez." I said.
He nodded, nang ilahad n'ya ang kamay ay ngumiti ako at kaagad na inabot iyon.
"Congrats, Sir." I said.
"Thank you and..." He glanced at his wife and to Rai who's talking to her in a
small voice. "I know my son wouldn't want to be here, thank you for letting him
come."
"No po, he actually wants to come here. He wants to personally congratulate
you." I said.
"I bet not, hija." He chuckled. "Sagad sa buto ang galit n'ya. Guess he got it
from me that bad."
I didn't comment and just smile at him.
Nang bumalik si Rai sa tabi ko ay kaagad na nagsalubong ang mga mata namin ng
chairwoman.
Her eyes were cold, with unshed tears.
Tumikhim ako at ngumiti para magbigay galang. "Good evening, Ma'am. Thank you
for the invite, congratulations po."
"Thank you, Miss Mendez, I uhm..." She glanced at his son. "Can I speak with
you?"
"Ako po?" I asked, shocked.
"Oo sana...kung ayos lang sa'yo."
 "Uh, sure." I nodded.
I looked at Rai and saw him staring intently at me, susunod na sana sa Mommy
n'ya pero dahil sa hawan n'ya sa kamay ko ay hindi ko magawang sumunod.

"You don't have to do that," He whispered, as if worried

about the talk.
"No worries, I got this." I looked at him and smiled.
He sighed, mas humigpit ang hawak sa kamay ko. "Kung ganoon, sasama nalang
ako--"
"Sshh, no." I stopped him and smiled. "Don't you have trust in me?"
"I trust you, it's her I don't trust." He said softly.
"She's your mother, Rai, but I understand. Just trust me, okay?"
"I just..." He shook his head.
"No words could ever let me leave you, okay, Daddy?" I touched his jaw.
Tumitig s'ya sa akin, puno pa rin ng pag-aalinlangan ang mukha.
"Rai? Please?"
"Let her, son. Angelita won't say something like that, I assure you." His
father tapped his back and he nodded, letting me go.
Sumunod ako kay chairwoman habang naglalakad s'ya, some greeted her and she
will just nod and smile.
I saw my old friends glancing at me as I make my way towards the chairwoman.
Jesusa still looks annoyed, Gino flashed me a smile but I can't give it back,
instead, I looked away.
We settled ourselves in the patio outside the hall. It was empty, may fountain
lang sa gitna at walang media.
The moment she shifted her gaze at me, I stood straight.
"How are you?" She suddenly asked.
"I'm good, Ma'am." I said. "I am living in Sta. Monica for now."
"What do you do for a living? I heard you're an engineer now. Is it true you're
a Flores?" Her strict eyes gazed at me.
"My mother is, Ma'am." I answered. "Yes po, I'm an engineer."
She glanced at me then nodded, her black eyes roaming around me.
"Is it true that my son is giving you money?"
"In the past, Ma'am, yes." I confessed. "I was a witness for Akisha's case and
yes, Ma'am, I demand a compensation from it."
"So, it's true, then." She nodded again, still with a straight face. "What
about when you spend his money for your own good?"
"I never asked him anything, Ma'am. He gave it to me on his own and the truth
is I still accepted it. Nakakahiya man po pero siguro po tama kayong wala na talaga
akong inasam mula pa noon kung hindi ang pera." I said.
"I was poor, Ma'am. My brother and father is sick, my mother has debts and I
couldn't afford to study way back. Ang ambisyosa ko po siguro noon at alam kong
iniisip n'yong pera ang habol ko sa anak n'yo pero gusto ko pong sabihing mahal ko
s'ya.
"He helped me a lot, Ma'am, in bulding myself. He protected me and showed me I
can be better. I fooled a lot of people because I was ambitious, for wanting
something I couldn't have but Rai is a different case."
"Y-You call him Rai?" I noticed her shock.
"I call him in any names but that was what he first introduced me, he said he
was Ephraim." I said and she nodded, still shock.
"I am sorry, Ma'am, kung may nagawa man po ako noon. I am sorry because I was
so ambitious, I fooled other people para may ipangtustos sa pamilya ko."
"You're working as a waitress too, right?"
"Opo," I nodded. "I need to work for my family pero gusto ko rin pong makatapos
para mas matulungan sila."
"So, noon ay nag-iintern ka sa amin, nag-aaral at nagtatrabaho?" She asked, I
nodded.
 "Malaki po ang naitulong sa akin ng anak n'yo, Ma'am.
Pasensya na po kung nagamit din iyon ng nanay na oportunidad noon para makakuha ng
pera. I apologize for all the bad things I did. I will pay and give back the money
he spent for me."
"Alam kong may mga mas better pang babae para sa anak n'yo, alam kong hindi ko
deserve ang pagmamahal n'ya pero, Ma'am, I think maybe he deserve to choose who to
love. Kung ayaw n'yo po ako sa anak n'yo ay naiintindihan ko dahil ikaw ang
magulang n'ya pero hindi ko po iiwan ang anak n'yo dahil lang doon.
"I did bad and wrong decisions in my life but meeting your son, Ma'am, loving
and knowing him is the best and the only right decision I did."
She remained staring at me, still in a straight face but I noticed something
different in her eyes.
"If you're still worried I might be after his money then, I am willing to write
a pre-nuptial--"
"No!" Her eyes widen and I froze. "No, don't do it. He'll get mad if I forced
you to do it. No."
Hindi na ako nakaimik at kinagat nalang ang labi.
"Well," She sighed. "I realized what he said about you is true. My son is
willing to do anything for you, Miss Mendez. He's too inlove with you, he even had
guts and willing for us to strip all his fortunes."
"That..." I sighed. "I didn't know he'll do it."
"Nagalit ako sa anak ko dahil akala ko ay nagpapabulag s'ya sa'yo. I thought
you were manipulating him but I proved you really weren't. Ayaw kong humiwalay ang
anak ko sa akin but seeing the company he built? I was sad but I am more proud now
that he's soar high on his own. I can't believe he did it even without our help. I
didn't know he has the ability to do that and I guess his inspiration is his
devotion to you."
I smiled then shook my head.
"No, Ma'am. He did it all himself, he proved he can make his own and managed
it. Sarili po n'ya ang sandigan n'ya, wala po akong kinalaman doon."
"If you say so," Then for the first time, I saw her soft smile. "I don't wanna
sound fake, Miss Mendez, but guess my son would do better if I let him be with
you."
She sighed. "I am sorry, Miss Mendez. I deeply apologize for being bias way
back, for all the words I've said, for being judgemental. I just didn't expected,
the people I often trusted is the first to betray me and the people I couldn't are
the deserving ones for the trust I didn't give."
I smiled too and nodded.
"I understand, Ma'am, and I am so sorry too." I whispered.
"Well, it's too late and maybe you can call me Tita too?" She asked shyly.
I chuckled, nodding in happiness.
"O-Of course po!" I grinned. "Of course, T-Tita!"
She smiled kindly, her eyes smiled too.
"Well? Can I ask for a hug from my future daughter-in-law?" Shocked at that, I
smiled and immediately hugged her.
Pagkapasok palang naming dalawa sa loob ay kaagad nang sinalubong ng mga bisita
ang Mommy ni Rai.
Nasa malayo palang ay nakasalubong ko ang mata ni Rai, as if he was waiting for
me. I smiled at him.
"You okay?" He mouted and I nodded, smiling. He looks relieved but before I
could even go to him, some people went to talk to me.
I become pre-occupied and Rai talked to some business partners in front.
Clients went to talk to me and I kindly talked to them too.
I excused myself after I while when someone blocked me from walking.
 "G-Gino?" My eyes widen.
"Sera..." He muttered, a small smile on his lips.
"Well, the bitch is here!" Nawala ang atensyon ko sa pagsasalita ni Jesusa.
I glanced at her and saa Jenny pulling her.
"No, Jes! Not now!" She whispered.
Guess I have to talk to them now.
"Sa labas tayo mag-usap." I said.
Muli akong sumulyap kay Rai na may bagong kausap, mukhang hindi na ako napansin
kaya dire-diretso ako.
They followed me until we reached the patio. Hinarap ko sila pero kaagad akong
nagulat nang mabilis akong nasampal ni Jesusa.
I gasped.
"Jesusa!" Gino exclaimed, pulling her from me.
"You bitch! You gold-digger! Ano, hindi mo talaga pinakawalan si Engr.
Miranda?!" She exclaimed.
I was in the verge of attacking but I stopped myself.

"Jes!" Jenny exclaimed. "Ano ba!"

"That bitch! Hanggang ngayon feelingera ka pa rin?! Ano? Nagpokpok ka ng sarili
mo kay--"
I immediately raised my hand and slapped her.
Nakita kong natigilan silang tatlo sa ginawa ko.
"Y-You--" She attempted attacking again.
"Jesusa! Stop it!" Gino exclaimed.
"Bakit ako titigil?! Niloko tayo ng babaeng puta na 'yan--"
"Ano ba, Jes! That was years ago!" Jenny exclaimed.
"So? Ang babaeng iyan--" Tinakpan ni Jenny ang bibig n'ya.
"I'm so...I'm so sorry, Sera." Gino suddenly said. "Sorry, hindi ko alam na
ganyan magiging kabayolente--"
"I'm sorry," I said and they all stopped. "I'm sorry that I forced myself to be
in your circle."
"Y-You don't have to," Gino tried holding me but I moved away.
"No, let me finish." I said and glanced at them.
My cheek hurt but I chose to stand for myself, I will apologize for everything,
ako naman ang nagsimula ng lahat ng ito.
"I deeply apologize for fooling you all, for trying to fit in. I admit noong
una ay gusto ko lang maging sosyal but in the duration of pretending to be rich, I
truthfully thought of you all as my friends. Sa kabila ng distansya natin sa buhay
dahil kayo ay mayaman at ako ay hindi, nagsinungaling man ako pero lahat ng
ipinakita ko sa inyo ay totoo."
"Sera..." Gino muttered.
Jesusa and Jen remained quiet. Jen is lowering her head and Jesusa and glaring
at me but her eyes were wet with unshed tears.
"I am so sorry, guys. I am so sorry. For the money you spent on me, I guess
you've received it already? I instructed my secretary to deposit it on your
accounts years ago--"
"Y-You're Engr. Flores?" Jenny suddenly asked, her eyes are wide.
I slowly nodded and gave them a small smile.
"I hope you could forgive me, hindi man ngayon pero sana." I looked at them
all. "I'm sorry again, Gino, Jen, Jesusa..."
She looked away, hinahawi ang mga luha and I sighed, tatalikod na sana sa
kanila nang makitang papalapit na si Rai.
My eyes widen when in a split second, he is here and he pushed Gino!
"Oh my God!" I exclaimed.
Sa bilis ng pangyayari ay nasa lapag na si Gino, nasuntok sa panga ni Rai kaya
napasinghap ako at mabilis itong hinila.
 "What...Rai!" Sigaw ko.
"You fucker!" He attempted to punch Gino again but I screamed.
"Miranda! Let him go!" I exclaimed but he won't listen.
"Miranda! Isa!" I exclaimed. "Oh my God! Let him go! He didn't hurt me!"
That's when he stopped. He immediately glanced at me, his cold sharp eyes are
frightening.
"No?"
"No! Oh my God!" Inihilamos ko ang mukha.
Hindi pa s'ya nakatayo kaagad, I have to pulled his hand to stand from there.
Magulo na ang suit n'ya at gusot, habang hawak ko ang braso ni Rai ay marahang
hinila ko s'ya at muling humarap sa mga tao roon.
"I'm sorry," I said and pulled him out of the place.
He was so annoyed, he could almost punch things with his temper.
"Rai,"
"They were hurting you, Serafine!" He exclaimed.
"No..." I said. "Ayos lang ako."
"No you are not!" His forehead creased. "What is this, huh?" He touched my
cheek and I flinched when it stung a bit.
"Why the hell you have a fucking scratch, huh?" He gritted his teeth.
"H-Huh? Wala..."
"I can see clearly, woman." He cursed again. "Fuck, I will fucking punch--"
"Vioxx Ephraim!" I exclaimed and pulled him by his suit back to me when he
attempted going back.
"Nagkainitan lang, sa galit ay nasampal. Nakaganti naman ako--"
"Is it the woman then, sino doon sa dalawa?!" Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"Nothing, Rai, okay?" I pulled him slowly.
"This is not okay, Sera." He looks frustrated. "No one hurts you and gets away
with it."
"I'm okay," I smiled.
"That smile won't sway me, Serafine." He scratched his nose, supladong umirap.
"Baby..." Lambing ko. I slowly pushed his back on the car, nagpalit kami ng
pwesto.
"No, I am doing my best to not hurt you tapos sasaktan ka nila? Fucking no."
His jaw clenched.
"I am okay, Rai." Haplos ko sa panga n'ya.
"Sa'yo okay pero hindi sa akin, Sera. They were hurting you! What am I suppose
to feel? Kung ayos lang sa'yo, sa akin ay hindi!" He exclaimed.
I pouted when I saw the tears on the side of his eyes. My heart melted.
"Baby ko..." I caressed his jaw.
Umiwas s'ya ng tingin.
"I love you, Rai." I muttered, he didn't answer me.
"Come on, baby." I slowly hugged his waist, kissing his chin.
His jaw clenched.
"What can I do to calm you?" I touched his waist, naglalambing.
"Uhm? How about when go to your unit and you know? Break some things?" I said,
mabilis n'ya akong nilingon pero maya-maya'y tumikhim at nag-iwas.
"Hindi ako madadala sa karupukang ganyan, Serafine."
"Hmm?" Nag-isip pa ako. "How about sige, sagutin na kita?"
"You're my girlfriend, Serafine. No." Aniya.
"Ih, di ba one year ka manliligaw?" I pouted.
"Manliligaw ako habang buhay, basta girlfriend kita." Aniya at humawak na sa
baywang ko.
"Oh, okay? So, bati na tayo?"
Bumaba ang tingin n'ya sa akin, umiling at pinisil ang ilong ko.
"Still a no, baby girl."
"Daddy!" irit ko.
"Whatever." He smirked.
"Hmm," Napaisip ako, maya-maya'y tumitig sa kanya at humugot ng hininga.
 "Rai, I'm pregnant." I said.
He froze, mabilis s'yang napaharap sa akin at nanlaki ang mata.
"W-What? Really?" He gasped and suddenly laughed. "Fuck, really?!"
I pouted, biglang nagsisi.
"Uh...kasi..."
"How many weeks? Shit, really?" Lumayo s'ya at hinawakan ang t'yan ko. "Anak,
you hear daddy?"
"Uhm...Rai." I cleared my throat.
"Ano raw? Malalaman na ba agad? Babae o lalaki? Fuck, if this is a girl, I'll
fucking punch her suitors!" He exclaimed, humawak sa tyan ko. Akmang luluhod pa
para idikit ang tenga pero hinila ko s'ya patayo.
"Rai!"
"What?" He smiled sheepishly. "Told you, I am a sharpshooter--"
"Wait! D-Don't be mad, okay?" I said.
"Huh? Why would I be mad? Matagal na kitang gustong buntisin, Serafine. And
you're carrying our child so--"
"The truth is...I still haven't checked the OB." Alanganin akong ngumiti.
He stopped then his forehead creased.
"Then, why did you say..." He glared at me.
Patay kang bata ka...
"I love you, Rai, so much but..." I smiled awkwardly, unti-unting itinaas ang
kamay sa may mukha at nag-peace-sign.
"H-Happy April fools day." I chuckled non-chalantly, thinking of my
consequence.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Kabanata 30

Helloooo! Finally! I am so happy! Rai and Sera will finally

say bye to you! Thank you for being a part of their journey.
Thank you rin, always, for your undying support. For waiting for my slow
updates and for your unending love for my stories and characters.
May you keep the lessons you've learned in my stories. Keep safe, everyone!
Their journey won't end, it's just starting.
This is Dancing With Fire's last chapter.
xxx
Kabanata 30
"U-Uy, Rai!" I exclaimed.
"No," He hissed, crossing his arms. "Strip."
"A-Ayaw!" I exclaimed.
He raised his brow at me. "Hindi ka maghuhubad?"
"No!" Taas noo kong sabi sa kanya.
He stared at me, cocking his head with a smirk on his face.
"I am still asking you kindly, baby. Strip now on your own or I will strip you
naked." Nanliit ang mata n'ya.
I pouted.
"Rai..." I whined and stomped my feet.
"No, don't whine. Hindi kita susuyuin ngayon." He motioned.
I gasped, ngumuso ulit.
"Joke lang!" I said and he shook his head.
"No."
"Uso kaya 'yon ngayon, April kasi! Tapos ano...ano ba 'yong sinasabi nila?"
Napaisip pa ako.
"Ah!" I grinned and spread my arms. "Issa prank!" I exclaimed.
Nanatili ang ngisi ko, malaki at nakabukas pa ang braso but he remained staring
blankly at me kaya napanguso ako.
 "No?" I asked.
"No." He scoffed.
"Rai..." Inarte ko.
"Go, baby. Strip." Iniangat pa n'ya ang kamay.
"Give me one chance pa?" I muttered and he smirked, shaking his head.
"No chances, I said calm me down but you didn't. You even pranked me, huh?"
"Rai kasi," I stomped my feet.
He suddenly stood, my eyes widen when he walked towards me. Napaatras naman ako
pero wala nang nagawa nang tumama lang ang likod ko sa pader.
"Rai..."
"Hmm, yes?" He cornered me, bumaba ang mukha sa leeg ko at nagpakawala ng
maliliit na halik kaya napasinghap ako.
He licked my neck, his hand slowly went to my waist to touch me. He moved his
hand up and down and I gasped, tilted my head to give him more access to my skin.
I touched his nape, slowly moving it to his hair to give it a caress.
Sinalubong ng halik n'ya ang mga labi ko at mabilis akong gumanti. He bit my
lower lip, parting my lips to enter.
Humalinghing ako, idinikit ang sarili sa kanya hanggang sa naramdaman ko at
pagkalas n'ya ng gown ko.
It fell on the floor, nagkatingin kaming dalawa at walang pagdadalawang-isip
n'ya akong binuhat.
He slammed me on his table, pushing the things away from it. Nang maibaba ako
roon ay mabilis s'yang tumungo para sakupin ang dibdib ko.
I was writhing in pleasure, the wetness in between my legs is visible with only
a soft touch he is giving me.

He moved his finger in the fabric of my clothes to my skin,

teasing my bud with his touch.
"Rai! Ah!" I gasped, he licked my sensitive bud, he eyes were on me while he
suck my peaks.
"You like it, hmm, baby girl?"
"Y-Yes, Daddy...Yes!" Habol ang hiningal ko at mas itinulak pa s'ya sa aking
dibdib.
He pushed my undies and touched my bare skin, teasing my sacred part with his
touch.
My eyes rolled when he entered a digit, a womanly voice escaped my mouth when I
felt something building up inside my womb.
"F-Faster...Rai, please!" I moved my waist.
He entered another digit, catching my lips for a sensual and earth shattering
kisses.
Habol man ang hininga ay naramdaman ko ang sarap sa ginagawa n'ya. I moved my
waist more while he's finger-fucking me.
I hugged his nape, pulling his hair while sharing an unending hot kiss.
"If you're still weren't pregnant, I'll make you one tonight." He whispered
playfully on my ear.
"Ah! Shit, Rai. Faster!" I groaned.
He chuckled, moving his fingers faster inside me, slamming it and when I felt
my release, I felt suddenly tired.
Habol pa rin ang hininga ay sumandal ako sa kanyang dibdib. He touched my back
for support and kissed my head again.
"Let's continue this on the bed," He whispered.
Nag-angat ako ng tingin, maya-maya ay ngumuso.
"Rai..." I called.
"Hmm?" He gulped, licking his lower lip as he glanced darkly on my body.
He even licked his fingers clean, his jaw clenching with desire.
"Rai, I don't want na." I said at mabilis n'yang hinanap ang mata ko.
"H-Huh?" His mouth parted.
 "I don't want na, I'm tired." I muttered.
"What? I mean...we can still do this on the bed--"
"Eh, ayaw ko na nga." Inarte ko. "Tsaka nagugutom na ako, gusto ko ng pagkain."
He stared at me then blinked again.
"Baby..." He called, his eyes begging. "How about me? I am having a fucking
hard-on."
"Aba, malay ko sa'yo." I hissed, humalukipkip ako sa harapan n'ya, iritado.
"Uunahin mo talaga 'yan kaysa sa akin? I'm hungry."
"Of course not," He gulped and sighed. "Gutom ka na talaga?"
"Yes..." Malungkot kong sabi at humawak sa t'yan. "Wala na akong energy, gusto
kong food."
"Oh, alright." I noticed his still horny face kaya ngumuso ako at inabot ang
mukha n'ya at hinalikan ang labi n'ya.
"Sorry, daddy. I didn't mean to stop you, I just...you know, feel so hungry." I
said.
"It's alright," He gave me a smile, brushing my hair with his fingers. "You
take a bath first, okay? I'll cook you food."
"Sorry, Rai..." I pouted again. "Am I being a bitch? I want to make love to you
too but my stomach's churning and--"
"Love you," He stopped me by his kiss. "It's okay, it's just my libido. My
baby's more important."
My heart skipped a bit, napanguso ako sa kanya at mabilis s'yang niyakap.
"Love you, daddy. Gusto ko ng pinya." I said.

"Alright," He chuckled, kissing my forehead. "Wait for me

here, okay? I'll just prepare your bath."
I nodded and smiled, bago s'ya umalis ay binalot n'ya ako ng kumot at nang
makalabas ay nginitian ko s'ya.
He chuckled when he saw me swinging my feet, lumapit s'ya, hinagkan ang noo ko
at bumulong.
"Bath is ready, I'll carry you?" He asked.
"Ow...kie!" I said, smiling widely.
Mabilis n'ya akong binuhat at kaagad akong yumakap sa batok n'ya at pagkarating
ng banyo ay ibinaba n'ya ako sa maligamgam na bathtub.
It was a fun night, literal na masaya.
My daddy should punish me but I ended up punishing him and how? Pagkatapos ko
lang naman ng kain at kaunting pahinga ay sobra naman akong inantok kaya tulog ako
kaagad matapos ng ilang segundong landian namin sa kama.
But the next morning, I think karma got me. I woke up with my stomach churning
and in the verge of vomiting.
I immediately stood from the bed, halos tumalon na nga ata para lang makaabot
sa CR at makasuka.
I almost kneeled on the bathroom, napahawak pa ako roon, hinang-hina at
naramdaman ko nalang ang hawak sa likod ko at ang pag-angat ng buhok ko.
"What's the matter, baby?" Rai's worried voice asked but I couldn't answer him.
I am continuously vomiting, hinaplos naman n'ya ang likod ko at inayos ang
buhok ko para hindi mabasa.
After a while, my stomach calmed down, pagod akong tumingin kay Rai na
nakaluhod sa tabi ko, kunot ang noo.
"You done?" He asked.
I nodded weakly, hinawakan n'ya ang baywang ko at marahan akong inalalayan sa
may lababo para maglinis.
Nagmumog ako at nagtoothbrush habang si Rai ay lumabas para kumuha ng
maligamgam na tubig.
Nang matapos ako ay dumating kaagad s'ya at pinainom ako at nang maubos ay
yumakap ako sa kanya.
"Masakit ba ang tiyan mo?" He whispered, hugging me tightly and caressing my
back.
"No," I said softly.
Inalalayan n'ya akong palabas, nang maupo ako sa kama ay lumuhod s'ya sa
harapan ko at hinawi kaagad ang buhok ko paalis sa aking mukha.
"You wanna go to the doctor?" He asked.
"I'm doing fine, Rai. I just..." I sighed and looked at me while I bite my
lips. "May ipapasuyo ako sa'yo, okay lang?"
"Alright, what is it?" He asked me.
I brushed his hair with my fingers then smiled.
"Could you go to the pharmacy and buy three pregnancy kits?"
I saw how his eyes widen and his mouth parted.
"Y-You..."
"I still don't know," I pouted, nakita kong bumaba ang tingin n'ya sa tiyan ko
at muling tumitig sa aking mata.
"Serafine, if this is a joke I will punish--"
"Ta-try ko nga." I laughed, touching his jaw.
He licked his lower lip, glance at my stomach again and back to my face.
"I-I will go now!" Bigla s'yang tumayo, I laughed when he immediately took his
shirt from bed and almost ran out of his unit.
Nang makaalis s'ya ay napahawak ako sa tiyan ko at muling kinagat ang labi.

"Baby, are you there na?" I whispered.

Wala pang ilang minuto, Rai is frantic as he ran towards me, handling me the
plastic bag.
"Y-You should check," He said, I noticed his glistening eyes.
"I will." I chuckled and took the towel on the side table to dry his sweat.
"You're sweating a lot, did you run?"
"Yeah, I..." He licked his lip again. "You should check, Sera."
"Bakit excited ka?" I asked, teasingly.
"Yes...I just, just go, baby." He almost pushed me to the bathroom.
"Hmm," I grinned at him.
"Sama ako--" Aniya pero umiling ako kaagad at nilingon s'ya.
"Ako na, Rai."
"But baby--"
"Sabihan kita kaagad, okay?" I said and like a cute kid, he immediately nodded.
He looks lost and excited, natawa ako nang halos tumayo na s'ya sa tapat ng
pintuan ng banyo habang nag-aantay sa akin.
I used the kits, habang nag-aantay ay kumakalabog ang puso ko sa magkahalong
saya at hindi maintindihang nararamdaman.
I was nervous, excited and confused at the same time and while I wait for the
results of the kits, I sighed hard.
I closed my eyes, took one and my eyes widen when I saw it has two lines! My
heart quickened, mabilis na tinignan ang dalawang kit at parehas lang ng result.
I almost screamed, tumalon-talon pa ako roon at pinapayan ang sarili.
Oh my God! Oh my God, Serafine!
I held my breath and tried calming down until I heard his voice.
"B-Baby? What? What's the result?" He knocked on the door.
Pigil ang ngiti, lumabas ako habang nakatago sa kamay ang kit.
Nakita ko ang paglunok n'ya pagkakita sa akin.
"W-What? What is it?" He asked.
"Kumalma ka muna," I said.
Nagpakawala s'ya ng hangin at binasa ang labi n'ya. "I-I'm calm."
"Now, go to the bed, upo ka roon." I said.
He looked confused but followed my order. Naupo s'ya sa kama habang tumayo
naman ako sa harapan n'ya.
I saw him gulping, his hand forming a fist.
"Ready ka na?" I asked.
 "Fucking yes," He said.
I chuckled, biting my lip and slowly nodded at him.
"I-I'm pregnant, Rai." I said.
He immediately rose on the bed, nagulat ako 'nung tumalon s'ya at sumuntok sa
ere.
"Fuck, yes!" He exclaimed.
"I knew it! I freaking knew it--" He suddenly froze when he saw my smiling
face. Bigla s'yang sumimangot.
"Are you pranking me again?" He asked.
"No!" I exclaimed and laughed.
Nanliit ang mata n'ya sa akin at namaywang.
"The truth, Sera? It's still April so, I know that joke is still allowed to
use--"
"Hindi ka naniniwala?" I laughed.
"Yes...No, I don't know, woman." Sumimangot s'ya. "You pranked me last night!"
I suddenly laughed, mas pumirmi ang labi n'ya sa akin.

"See?! You're pranking me!"

"Hindi nga!" I laughed, inangat ang dala kong kit at ipinakita sa kanya. "Look,
positive."
Inabot n'ya ang kit, tumitig s'ya roon at nakita kong kumislap ang mata pero
ngumuso.
"Pentelpen ata ito, Sera!" He exclaimed and I laughed again.
Mas sumambakol ang mukha n'ya.
"You're fooling! You're such a witch!" He hissed.
I laughed, tiptoed and kissed his lips. Hinawakan ko ang kamay n'ya pahila sa
loob ng banyo at inilahad sa kanya ang dalawa pang kit.
"See," I said.
He stopped, nakita kong nanginig ang kamay n'ya habang inaabot ang mga kit.
Tumitig s'ya roon, pabalik doon sa hawak n'ya at suminghap.
"Fuck..." He whispered.
"See? I am not pranking you!" I chuckled. "I'm pregnant, daddy."
"Oh, shit... Fucking shit." He cursed unbelievably.
I smiled, napatingin s'ya sa akin at nagulat ako nang napahawak s'ya sa pader
ng banyo.
"F-Fuck, my knees are shaking..." He muttered, napaupo s'ya sa nakasaradong
bowl at muling tinitigan ang mga kit.
He was in awe, nang ibaba n'ya iyon ay napahawak s'ya sa buhok at sinabunutan
ang sarili.
"Fuck, I-I'm a father now?" Nag-angat s'ya ng tingin sa akin.
Nangilid ang luha sa mga mata ko at bahagyang tumango sa kanya.
"Y-Yes, daddy, may baby ka na." I whispered.
To my shock, his tears fell. Nanlambot ako nang hilahin n'ya ako palapit sa
kanya at sumubsob sa tiyan ko.
My eyes swelled when I heard his sobs and felt his kisses on my tummy.
"B-Baby...this is daddy." He whispered on my stomach and I sniffed when he
immediately hugged my waist and cried in happiness.
"Careful," aniya.
"Come on, daddy. I can handle myself."
"No, it's slippery here." He said.
I chuckled, touching his hand.
"Seriously..."
"It's better safe than sorry," He shook his head. "Matarik dito, Serafine, and
I don't want you to slip here. I don't want you and our baby hurt, okay?"
"Okay," I smiled.
Hinayaan ko na s'yang tulungan ako. Habang mas papaakyat kami sa itaas ng
bangin na iyon ay mas lumakas ang hangin.
 The wind blew my hair, the scent of the fresh air made me smile.
Pagkarating namin sa itaas ay kaagad ako namangha sa tanawing nakita.
Lost Island really is a sight to behold.
The pristine blue and clear sea is seen from above here. I saw birds flying
freely in the sky, from here, I saw the coconut trees from the other side of the
island.
I looked around the place and saw the grass, sa isang parte sa gilid ng bangin ay
may mga bulaklak ngunit wala ang ibang parte bukod doon.
From here, I can see the beautiful shipwreck below, ang dating magandang barko
ay napuno na ng kalawang at tinitirhan na ng mga hayop.
Niyakap ko ang sarili at napangiti, pinagmamasdan ang payapang lugar at rinig
pa rin ang hampas ng alon sa mga bato sa dalampasigan.

"Come here, baby." Rai called me.

I glanced at him, napangiti ako nang ilahad n'ya sa akin ang inayos na jacket
sa lupa para upuan.
"Thank you," I chuckled.
He nodded, offering his hand. Naupo ako roon habang inaalalayan n'ya ako
mabilis na nagtungo sa likuran ko.
He sat beside me, hugging me a bit and kissing my shoulder.
"Daddy, mabuti nalang at nabili n'yo itong isla 'no?" I said, looking around
the place.
"Hmm, good thing Lucian introduced this to us." He said, intertwining our
fingers.
"Ang gaan ng loob ko sa lugar na 'to," I muttered and glanced at the place.
"Me too," He chuckled. "You know this is our favorite hang-out place. There are
times we won't accept guests just so we can roam the island again and again."
"Kayo lang? Ng mga pinsan mo?"
"Hmm," He hummed, hinawi n'ya ang buhok ko at mas lalo akong niyakap.
"You're so clingy, daddy." I chuckled.
His lips lifted for a smirk, marahang inilapit ang mukha ko sa kanya para
patakan ako ng halik.
"I love you, baby girl." He whispered.
"Love you too, my daddy." I giggled. "Sera and our little baby loves you so
much!"
He chuckled, kissing my cheeks again and again.
"Look at the shipwreck below," He pointed it and I glanced at it.
"Yeah, ang ganda 'no? Bakit may shipwreck d'yan, Rai? It's kinda weird seeing
that one, super rare ang ganyang tanawin."
"That's what caught Lucian's attention," Aniya kaya sumulyap ako sa kanya.
"I get him, well, that was a breathtaking sight. That's what would caught my
attention too."
"Do you believe in tales, baby?" He asked.
"Hmm, yes. This has a tale 'no?" I asked him and he nodded.
"Well, this is the lost island." I said, mentioning the island. "And that one,
is the sea of thieves?" I pointed the sea.
"Yep," He smiled again.
"Marami pa akong hindi nakikita rito, ano?" I asked and he nodded at me.
"Yes, there's this island near here, a part of the Lost Island at it is called
Zarina." aniya.
"Can we go there?"
"Yes, of course." He said. "Maybe by tomorrow? We can go to the hidden lagoon
too. There's another shipwreck."
"Woah!" Hinarap ko s'ya at nanlaki ang mata. "Seriously?"
"Yes, but unlike here." He pointed the shipwreck below. "The shipwreck there is
under the sea."
My eyes widen.
 "I wanna go there!" I exclaimed.
"Yes, of course, baby." He chuckled. "We'll go there by tomorrow? Kapag hindi
malakas ang alon."
"Is it included in the tale too?" I asked and he nodded, caressing my palm.
"Let me tell you the tale," He said and I nodded immediately, listening to him.
"Way back years and years ago," He started.
"Oh, ano 'yan, mga homo-sapiens pa?" Nilingon ko s'ya.

He laughed, shaking his head. Slowly hugging me, burrying

his head on my neck.
"No, silly." He laughed.
I pouted and laughed too.
"Oh, okay. Sige, continue na." I chuckled.
"Way back, queens and kings are the highest in the society. They were old rich
families, passed from generation to generation. In a kingdom far away, there were a
family and they only have one child, a daughter."
I nodded, remained listening.
"It was a long time legacy to marry of each family member to the finest and
richest princes and princesses. Babae ang anak nila so, it was a rich prince they
were searching to marry her off."
"What is the princess' name?" I glanced at him.
"Guinevere," he muttered.
"Well, despite the fact she should marry a prince. The princess grew up still
believing in love, she wants to get married to someone she's in love with. Kaya
noong nakapili ang magulang n'ya ng ipapakasal sa kanya, she escaped the palace."
My eyes widen and glanced at him.
"Really?"
"Hmm, then when the king and queen found out she escaped, they searched all
over the palace. Nag-utos silang hanapin ang prinsesa sa buong lugar kapalit ng
malaking halaga. The princess wandered around and found herself in the
marketplace."
"Near the shore, she was shocked to see screaming merchants. Kaagad s'yang
sumilip tapos nakita n'ya na nagnanakaw nanaman ang mga pirata sa mga tindahan
doon."
"That was rude! Ganoon ba talaga ang mga pirata?"
"That's how the pirates live, baby. They are thieves."
I pouted and nodded. "But that was bad, hindi ba sila malapit sa palasyo?"
"If there are people who hates the palace's rules, it would be the pirates." He
smiled.
"Gusto sana ni Guinevere na pagsabihan ang mga pirata pero bago pa man n'ya
nagawa, nakita s'ya ng isa sa mga guard sa palasyo. She panicked, didn't got time
to talk to the pirates because her priority is just to escape.
"She ran, and the only place she saw safe for her in the meantime is the open
pirate's ship."
"Oh? That's more dangerous! Baka patayin lang s'ya roon? Knowing she's a
princess and the pirates hates the palace!"
"Well, she hid herself in the storage room on the lower deck." aniya. "And
well, the pirates caught her."
"Huh! I knew it! Wala na, mamatay na s'ya!" I exclaimed.
He laughed, hinalikan ang tainga ko. "Not yet, baby. Not yet."
"Huh? It's a dead end! The pirates would kill here!"
"That's what she thought." He said. "They took her to the upper deck, to the
captain of the ship."
"They were suppose to kill her, because she's a stranger and a part of the
palace. She begged the captain of the ship, the pirate to spare her life but when
the captain saw her beauty, it captivates him."
My mouth parted, nanlaki ang mata ko at biglang kinilig.
 "Oh! It's a love story!" I exclaimed.
"Yes, baby." He laughed.
"Oh, what does the pirate looked like? I'm positive the princess is beautiful
because she's a royalty! How about the pirate? Pogi rin, ano?" I asked excitedly.

He froze, I saw how his smile fell.

"He was ugly." Kunot ang noo n'yang sagot.
"Oww?" I teased. Nang lumubo ang pisngi n'ya at nagsalubong ang kilay n'ya ay
tumawa ako.
"Don't be like that, it wasn't as if pirates still exists!" I chuckled. "And of
course, mas gwapo ka sa pirata! Ikaw kaya ang daddy ko." I winked.
He sighed, seryoso pero nahuli kong nagtatago ng ngisi.
"Love you! So, ano ngang itsura ng pirata?" I glanced at him.
"He's tall, black hair, black eyes." Paliwanag n'ya. "Ugly, right?"
"No!" I exclaimed. "Ang gwapo! Anong pangalan?"
Mas sumambakol ang mukha n'ya.
"Rai!" I whined.
"Mukhang pwet iyon, Serafine!"
"You're so mean!" I pouted, hinarap ko s'ya ng bahagya at humalukipkip. "Ano
nga name? I'm annoyed na, kukutusan na kita."
He sighed, he touched my shoulders, akmang hahalik pero umiwas ako.
"No kiss, daddy! What's the name?"
"Promise me to not imagine anyone?" He offered.
"Crazy ka ba, syempre mag-iimagine ako." I hissed.
He sighed, hinuli ako sa isang yakap bago marahang bumulong.
"Lucian. The pirate is Lucian." He whispered.
Namilog ang bibig ko at naimagine ang pinsan n'ya.
"Now, you're imagining the asshole." Kumunot ang noo n'ya.
"Oh my God..." I muttered. "I am imagining him! The description suits him well!
Black eyes, hair, tall and handsome!"
"Whatever," He hissed.
"Lucian looks more of a prince to me, huh! And...And he's so handsome!"
"Serafine," He warned and when I realized something, I glanced at him.
"Oh, now I know why you're all so bitter with the handsome Lucian." I giggled.
"You all jealous of him?"
"Not at all," He scoffed and I chuckled, tilting my head to kissed his cheek.
"He's handsome and that's it. Ikaw? Handsome na, love ko pa." I winked at him.
His cheek flushed, ngumuso kaya humagikhik ako. "Such a baby," I teased.
"Shall I continue the story or you'll just giggle around my cousin?"
"Opo, daddy." Tawa ko. "Seloso."
He cleared his throat, muling inayos ang pwesto naming dalawa at nagpatuloy.
"The pirate's plan is to give the princess back to the palace in exchange of
money. She begged them not to and the pirate told her he'll think about it. Habang
nasa dagat sila at naglalagay, the princess is such a kind person that she easily
get along with the pirates.
"She'll help them in the kitchen, in doing things around the ship. They get
along, nalaman n'yang kaya lamang nagnanakaw ang mga pirata ay dahil gahaman ang
mga nagtitinda."
"The merchants sell their products twice or thrice the original price."
"Oh," I nodded. "That was bad."
"Nagkapalagayang loob ang mga pirata at ang prinsesa. They treated her like
family and the princess treated them like one too. Later, Lucian found herself
falling for Guinevere."

"The story's more exciting," I giggled.

 "They confessed to their feelings and luckily, Guinevere is in love with him
too. They were all happy until one time, the princess went with the pirates and
someone saw her. The informant immediately told the palace about the princess."
"Hala, edi paano na 'yon?!" Kumunot ang noo ko.
"The palace warned Lucian and the pirates to surrender the lost princess but
they all said no. Una dahil pamilya na nila ang prinsesa and also, Lucian and
Guinevere decided to fight for their love. They protected the princess and did not
answer the palace's request. That's when the palace declared war against the
pirates."
I gasped and glance at him, seryoso na rin s'ya.
"The palace, with their skilled armies and a large battleship, canyons and
guns, they fought the pirates."
"Of course, the pirates didn't have enough weapons to fight the palace and one
unfaithful time, nagkasalubong ang barko nila. The large canyons destroyed the
pirate's ship."
My heart fell at that.
"The pirates had no choice but to move, idinaong nila ang barko sa islang 'to."
Aniya.
My eyes shifted on the shipwreck below.
"You mean..."
"That's the pirate's ship, baby." Bumilog ang bibig ko at napatango.
"The pirate and the princess could leave while the pirate's crew fought the
palace's armies. Guns versus swords, that was a tough and hard fight. Lucian wanted
the princess but couldn't leave his crew behind so he decided to fight, he decided
to fight with his crew for the love he has for the princess."
Mas bumigat ang puso ko roon.
"Pumunta s'ya sa dagat para lumaban. Lucian was a good fighter, kahit wala nang
natira sa kanyang tauhan, he endured a lot of gunshots to fight and when he killed
the last one with his sword, he thought it was the end."
Napahawak ako sa dibdib at humugot ng hininga.
"He looked at the crying princess, paalis na sana s'ya sa dagat kung nasaan
s'ya nakipaglaban pabalik sa prinsesa. Touching his bleeding wounds, he walked
weakly and managed to smile at his love but before he could even reach her, a
gunshot echoed, and a bullet pierced his heart." He said sadly.
My tears fell, napasinghap ako roon at nilingon s'ya.
"W-What...Why? I mean, they didn't deserve to die, Rai!" I gasped and sniffed.
He sighed, suminghap ako nang isinubsob n'ya ako sa kanyang dibdib at hinaplos
ang likuran ko.
"Well, Guinevere was devastated, she ran to the sea, hugging Lucian's lifeless
body and when she saw a guard coming to her aid, she ran away. Nakipag-agawan s'ya
ng baril mula rito at tumakbo paakyat sa bangin."
I moved my face from his chest and with my swollen eyes, I spoke. "H-Here?"
"Yes, baby." He sighed, touching my face. "She ran here while the guards
followed her."
Sinundan ko ang tinuturo n'yang pwesto at natigilan ako nang makitang ang
tinutukoy n'ya ang nag-iisang pwesto sa bangin kung nasaan naroon ang mga pulang
bulaklak na doon lamang tumubo.
"She stood there, watching the once blue sea turned to red as the blood from
the dead crew and her love mixed with it."
Patuloy na tumulo ang luha ko sa kwento n'ya.
"And she...just feels empty. She remembered their memories, and realized death
would never separate her from her love."
I sniffed.

"So..." He caressed my back. "Before the guards could even

reach her, she placed the gun on her head and pulled the trigger."
Mas napahagulgol ako, I hugged him.
 "T-That's just so unfair, Rai." I cried. "T-They didn't deserve it! Nagmahal
lang naman sila!"
"Love isn't just happy ending, baby." He hushed me.
"It's unfair! Tsaka...tsaka bakit ganoon! Nagkakilala nga pero binawi rin!"
"Love, baby. It's your choice to ignore, run away from it or face it. In their
case, they fought for it, maybe the destiny just isn't for them."
Suminghot ako at hinayaan si Rai na tuyuin ang luha ko.
"The ship from the palace carrying the dead princess sunk too." Nilingon ko
s'ya roon.
"Sa hidden lagoon, they got lost and entered that stone formation and cave.
Because the ship was too big, they cannot maneuver it."
"Karma!" I exclaimed and laughed, may luha pa rin ang mga mata. "Mabuti nga!
Bastards!"
Rai laughed, kissing my head.
"Guess so, there are also theories and stories the sea witches might be
responsible for it."
"What was that?"
"Mermaids." He smiled and my eyes widen. "They didn't know but the mermaids
witnessed the love of the pirate and the princess. They got brokenhearted and
enrage because of the tragedy that they chose to have their revenge.
"They lured the guards and the crew from the palace until they all jumped with
them and when they did, they drowned them, sinunod nilang hilahin pababa ang
barkong iyon kaya nasa ilalim."
"Huh!" Lumaki ang ngisi ko at hinawi ang mga luha ko. "Karma is a bitch,
right?! Kasama roon ang hari at reyna?"
"Yep," He winked. "With the prince the princess is supposed to marry."
"Yes!" Sumuntok ako sa ere. "Serves them right!"
He chuckled, kissing my cheek and enveloped me for a warm hug.
"Tragic, right?"
"They didn't deserve that, Rai. The end does not justify the love they have."
"You know what's magical in this island?" Nilingon ko s'ya roon.
"What?"
"There are rumors the pirate and the princess blessed this island with their
love. Maybe because they didn't have the ending they deserve, so, they blessed this
place and everyone who went here with their love ones got their happy endings,
unlike them."
"That was so sad,"
"That sea is where the pirates had their journey and that's where they also
died. That's why they called it the sea of thieves."
"And this island was once nameless and when the tale got passed from generation
to generation, they finally got a name. This is where the lost princess died so,
they called it the lost island."
It felt so sad but somehow I felt relief.
"Daddy, do you believe in reincarnation?"
"Hmm, maybe?" He whispered.
"Sana totoo," I sighed. "I hope, if the princess and the pirate got
reincarnated, I wish for them to get their happy endings too."
"I'll wish for it too," He whispered and hugged me.
"Rai!" I exclaimed, fixing my dress and waiting for my boyfriend to go out of
the room.
"Wait, baby!" He exclaimed.

I pouted, sipping my juice and when he went out of the

room, I smiled.
"Tara," He smiled.
I stood, hawak n'ya ang basket para sa picnic naming dalawa sa dalampasigan
ngayong gabi.
 Humawak s'ya sa aking baywang at yumakap din ako sa kaya habang naglalakad.
The island was peacefully quiet today, we were the first guest this week and no
one was here except us and some crew.
Rai is fixing the sun lounger and placing the basket in the small table. May
malalaking payong sa itaas para maiwasan ang init mula sa araw at habang nag-aayos
s'ya ay sumulyap ako sa dagat.
It was tempting me to swim kaya sumulyap ako kay Rai, mabilis na hinubad ang
dress at hinagis sa kanya.
He froze when my dress covered his eyes when I threw it on his head. He slowly
removed it, glancing at me and I grinned at him.
"Sera..." He warned.
"I'm just gonna swim!" I giggled. "Sunod ka, huh!" I exclaimed.
He eyed my body darkly, his jaw clenched while glancing at me in my red bikini.
"Bye, daddy!" I waved, gave him a flying kiss and ran to the sea.
Sinalubong ako ng alon, I giggled with the fresh air touching my skin. Naglakad
pa ako sa medyo malalim at nagtampisaw.
Lumubog ako, muling dumungaw sa dalampasigan at nagtaka nang makitang wala na
roon si Rai.
My forehead creased, shifting my gaze to look for him when a strong pair of
arms hugged my waist.
Napasigaw ako sa gulat at nanlaki ang mata nang umahon si Rai sa aking harapan.
"Rai!" I groaned, slapping his chest.
"Hey, baby." He smiled foolishly, his jaw clenching, the water fell from his
wet hair down his cheek.
"Nagulat ako sa'yo!" I said.
"Kiss," He muttered.
I smiled, hugging his nape and gave him a kiss when I noticed his reddish
forehead.
"Oh, anyare?" I asked.
"Where?"
"On your forehead." I touched his forehead.
"Hmm, nauntog ako sa may bato." He muttered.
"Huh? Kawawa naman ang baby ko." I sighed, touching his forehead, marahang
hinila ko s'ya pababa, marahang hinalikan ang noo n'ya.
"Okay na?"
He hid his smile and pouted. "Uhm, pati dito."
He pointed his cheek, I kissed it too and touched it.
"Hmm, okay na?"
"Dito pa oh," Turo n'ya sa leeg.
Natawa ako pero humalik din roon at nang ituro n'ya ang dibdib ay ngumuso na
ako.
"You're joking na."
"I'm not," He grinned. "Nasaktan din, even my chest."
Nanliit ang mata ko pero tumungo rin at hinalikan ang dibdib n'ya. I felt him
stilled but laughed, hugged me and kissed my cheek.
"Mayroon pa?"
"Here," He took my hand, slowly pulled my hand and my eyes widen when he
brought it on his crotch.
"Miranda!" My eyes widen.
"What?" He grinned. "That needed your attention and kisses too."
Tumikhim ako at suminghap bago bumaba ang tingin.

"Pero inferness, malaki s'ya kahit hindi buhay--"

"Serafine!" He exclaimed.
I laughed, humiwalay sa kanya at tumakbo. He groaned and ran after me, he swam
and I did too.
Nang marating ko ang dalampasigan ay basang-basa pa ako, akala ko ay hindi n'ya
ako aabutan pero nahuli n'ya ako.
"Got you!"
"Daddy!" Nagsisipa ako pero natatawang binuhat n'ya lang ako. I pouted,
kumakawala pero mas idiniin ako sa kanyang dibdib.
He laid me on the lounger, akala ko ay aalis na pagkatapos pero nanlaki ang
mata ko nang i-angat n'ya ang kamay ko at hinuli.
He pinned my hands above my head, my eyes widen when I saw the silly and
naughty smile of him.
His eyes fell on my chest and I saw him licked his lower lip.
"I want,"
"D-Don't tell me..."
"Then, I won't." He winked.
"Rai!" My eyes widen when lowered his head, claimed my lips and immediately
touched my chest.
I moaned, napaigtad ako nang maramdamang ibinaba n'ya ang bikini top ko at
hinaplos ang dibdib ko.
"R-Rai...baka may tao!" I groaned.
"No one's here, baby." He muttered, his breath touching my neck. "It's near
sunset and the crew's probably resting by now."
"B-But..."
"Don't you want this, hmm?" He hummed, lowering his hand on my bikini.
"S-Syempre, gusto..." I whimpered.
"Alright, then." He grinned and a moan escaped my lips when he inserted his
finger on my sensitive part.
My mouth parted, my toes curled when he lowered his mouth on my chest. He moved
his fingers in and out of me and my moans were evident.
"Don't scream so loud, they might think you're drowning...with my kisses." Rai
teased me.
I glared at him and he just gave me a wicked smile, catching my lips again for
a long and sweet kiss.
I touched his back and my eyes darkened while watching him pulled his trunks
down, slowly stroking his member before lowering himself to claim me fully.
Hindi na ako halos makahinga sa tawa nang muntik na kaming mahulog sa lounger
nang nasira ang isang paa nito.
"Ikaw kasi!" I exclaimed.
Laughing, he carried me to the other lounger and my laugher vanished when his
deep kisses covered my lips.
We made love under the setting sun, we made love and the crashing waves are the
witness. Pigil ko ang mga ungol habang gumagalaw s'ya para hindi makakuha ng pansin
at sa pagod ay nakatulog kaming magkayakap roon sa lounger.
I woke up and I already have clothes on, suot ko nang muli ang hinubad na dress
ko kanina at ang boyfriend ko ay abala sa paggawa ng apoy doon sa may dalampasigan
para makakain kami.
I stood, habang nakadukwang s'ya roon at bumubuhay ng apoy ay dumukwang din ako
para halikan ang kanyang pisngi.
He shifted his gaze at me and a sweet smile left his lips.
"Energized now?"
"Uhm, yeah." I said, naupo sa blanket na naroon at pinagmasdan s'yang gumagawa
ng apoy.
The moon is up and the bright stars were our light.
Nang mabuhay ni Rai ang apoy ay napangisi ako.

We grilled meat and shrimps, tawa ako ng tawa sa inarte ni

Rai, itinuturo ang kissmarks sa may dibdib n'ya.
"So, you told them it was from a cockroach?"
"Yes!" I exclaimed and laughed. "I didn't actually thought of it, it just
happened! Tsaka malay kong nalagyan pala kita ng kissmarks!"
 "I was shocked when Clarrise called me a cockroach then it's your fault, huh?"
Humagikhik ako at niyakap s'ya, naiiling namang inabot n'ya sa akin ang juice
pero yumakap din.
"It's alright, my daddy cockroach, you're handsome, anyway."
"Swerte mo, mahal kita." He chuckled, I let him rest on my leg after.
Habang nagniningas ang apoy sa may tabi namin ay abala si Rai sa paghalik sa
tiyan ko.
"Is it a boy or a girl?" He asked.
"I still don't know, baby." I brushed his hair. "When we got back, maybe we
should visit the OB."
"Do you think I'll be a good father?" He asked, glancing at me with his soft
eyes.
"Of course," I said sweetly, touching his jaw. "You'll be a great daddy, ako pa
nga lang, daddy material ka na. Paano kapag totoong baby pa?"
He chuckled, touching my cheek.
"Thank you, Serafine." He said seriously, his dark eyes brightened with the
light from the fire.
"For?"
"For everything, for coming in my life, for accepting me again."
"You don't have to say thank you," I smiled at him. "Instead, let me thank you.
For coming to my life, for giving me the will to fight for my dreams."
Nanatili s'yang nakatitig sa akin.
I saw how his sincere eyes burned with desire, passion and love. I sighed,
played with his hair and spoke.
"Will you marry me, Rai?" I asked.
He froze, I saw how his mouth parted at me.
"H-Huh?"
"Will you marry me?" I smiled. "Please, marry me?"
He gasped, natawa ako nang bumalikwas s'ya ng bangon at mabilis na sinapo ang
labi ko sa halik.
"Yes," He gasped, kissing me again. "Fucking yes, baby, I'll marry you."
I giggled, tumitig sa kanyang mata habang paulit-ulit na hinahaplos n'ya ang
pisngi ko.
"Ring..." He muttered. "Shit, the ring isn't with me."
"It's alright, pagbalik nalang." I chuckled.
"No," He kissed me again, nagulat ako ng tumayo s'ya. "Wait for me."
Nagulat man ay tumango ako, I watched as he ran towards our cabin and chuckled
knowingly.
I caressed my stomach and felt the happiness growing inside of me.
"We will give you a happy family, baby." I whispered on my stomach and watched
how the woods got burned to brighten the blazing fire more.
Rai came back, a wide smile on his face. Naupo s'ya sa harapan ko at nagtaka
ako nang makitang may hawak s'yang bondpaper.
"What are you doing?"
"Wait," He said and winked.
I smiled, watching him do something on the paper, folding it into small piece
and when he started shaping it, I saw what he is trying to do.
"Origami?"
"Done!" He raised it and I laughed when I saw him.
"A for the effort!" I exclaimed.
He winked playfully, crawling near and took my hand.
"So, Engineer Serafine Veronica Mendez..." He muttered, glancing at me.
"Let me ask you this time, will you marry me?"
I grinned pero sa kabila noon ay nangilid na ang luha ko. I slowly nodded,
smiling widely.
"Y-Yes..." I murmured. "Yes, of course, daddy."
With shaking hands, he slipped the paper ring on my finger and kissed the back
of my hand.
I sniffed, nang yakapin n'ya ako ay mabilis ko s'yang niyakap pabalik, lumuluha
at nakatitig sa singsing na gawa sa papel.
I don't need shiny things anymore. The only riches I'd prioritize now is only
him...and the family we'll build.
He offered his hand and pulled me softly up to the dance.
A slow song played in the background, I smiled happily as he held me closely
towards his body.
"I love you, Sera." He whispered.
"I love you too, daddy Rai." I murmured and watched how the fire danced with us
and realized the kind of love we have.
We want the love so dangerous, a love without a sure ending. A love that plays
against the odds.
We want the love that consumes us.
A love so strong, explosive, it burns everything it touches.
"Will you dance in fire with me? Again?" He whispered and I nodded.
"I will, baby. Willingly." I said, watching the igniting fire.

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Wakas

And we're done to Lost Island Series #4!

Maraming-maraming salamat sa pagmamahal n'yo sa characters ko! Sa Mikmik boys,
kina Daddy Rai at Sera. This isn't possible without your support.
Mahal ko kayo, Archers! Nakatapos nanaman ako ng istorya kasama kayo.
See you soon, Lucian!
This is for you. This is Dancing With Fire's epilogue. *punas luha*
xxx
Wakas
"How are you handling it?" My eyes shifted to Wave and shook my head.
"I have to find a lead," I answered.
"May nakuha ka na ba kahit papaano?" Caspian asked, sitting in front of the
couch while sipping on his wine.
"I met a woman," I said and their gaze shifted immediately at me.
"Kakamatay lang fiancèe mo at may babae ka na?" Lucian exclaimed.
"Fuck you," I cursed. "Wala akong babae, and Akisha isn't my fiancèe, I've
never agreed to my mother." I answered them.
"Sa tingin mo? Sinong may gawa nito sa kanya?"
I shrugged, staring blankly at the wineglass.
"Hindi kaya ang mga Tan?" Warrion spoke and I looked at him.
"How can you say that?" I asked.
"I didn't mean to accuse anyone, I'll just tell you my guess. Alice Tan is
obsessed with you, Vioxx. Noon pa, remember the party years ago? That woman is
something else, noong ina-nnounce na ipakasal ka kay Akisha ay nagwala iyon."
I sighed and nodded, remembering what happened that night in the party.
"That makes sense," Lucian commented then spoke again. "Pero hindi rin, ganyan
ka ba ka-gwapo para magpatayan sila para sa'yo?"
I glared at Lucian, nagtawanan ang mga pinsan kong ugok at umiling lang ako.
"Fuck you, Castanier. Yes, I am fucking handsome but that's too much. I don't
think someone could do that out of envy and jealousy." I answered, my forehead
creasing.
"Too much but not impossible, Vioxx." Cas said. "Don't forget what those
people, Cheska, did to my Reev. It's possible."
Napatitig ako sa kanya at napabuntong-hininga, muling naalala ang nangyari kay
Polaris.
"I'll add her to my list," I said then glanced at Warrion. "Could you help me
check CCTVs around the area?"
"Sure." He nodded. "What else can I help? How about that witness?"
 "I'll take care of the witness." I said. "Babalitaan ko kayo kung anong
sasabihin n'ya, get me someone to check on her too. Someone from your team for her
safety."
"I got one in mind." Warrion said. "You know Lando? He's a retired army, one
from my team. He works undercover."
"Yes, that would do." I nodded. "I need protection for that woman, she has
family. I can't risk."
"Alright, name?"
"Serafine Veronica Mendez." I answered.
"Pretty name, huh? Maganda?" The noisy Caspian asked and I raised my brows at
him.
"That's my business, Alcantara."
He laughed, raising his hand as if surrendering.
"I was just asking! Bakit apektado ka? Maganda, ano?"

"No..." Tumikhim ako.

"Weh?" Lucian smirked.
"She's my business, don't be too curious." Iritado kong sabi at sumimangot.
They laughed, kumunot ang noo ko at tumitig sa wine glass, muling naalala ang
babaeng iyon kanina.
Serafine...we'll, she's beautiful but that's for my eyes only.
"Tangina, maganda nga!" My eyes immediately shifted to my annoying cousins.
Nagtaka ako nang nakitang nakadungaw sila sa cellphone ng tumatawang si Caspian.
"What the hell are you doing?"
"Akala ko ba hindi maganda?" Lucian smirked at me. "Rich kid pa ata--"
Tumayo ako at mabilis na hinablot ang phone ni Caspian at sumimangot nang
makitang profile iyon ni Serafine Mendez.
"Why are you searching her?" Sumimangot ako at pasimpleng nag-swipe gamit ang
profile ni Alcantara.
"Curious, wala ka namang pakialam dati pero ngayon ayaw mong sabihin kung
maganda o--"
"Don't fucking add her," I groaned, slowly taking my phone and installing
facebook.
"Anong ginagawa mo?" Dungaw ni Lucian pero nilayo ko ang phone.
"Shit, nag-iinstall!" Lucian laughed at ang mga kumag kong pinsan ay
nagsitawanan.
My forehead creased, hindi sila pinansin at inantay na mag-install ang
application.
"Hoy, cellphone ko!" Cas exclaimed, pilit na kinuha sa akin ang phone pero bago
ko ibinalik ay bi-nlock ko ang profile ni Serafine para hindi n'ya makita.
He pulled it from me, muling pinindot ang search box at sumimangot.
"Arte! Che-check lang!" He hissed, nakasimangot na silang mahal. "Crush mo,
ano?!"
I looked away, silently creating an account to add her.
"Kala mo aagawin, arte-arte, may Reev ako!" Caspian hissed and my brow raised,
glancing at him.
"Then visit your Reev, tapos na ang duty 'nun, ah? Serafine is my business."
"Mga thirty minutes pa ang out 'nun," Caspian murmured, glaring at me. "Bakit
alam mo anong oras ng out ng Reev ko?!"
I laughed, shaking my head and scoffed, showing him my middle finger.
"Engr. sorry, tinakasan ako ni Ma'am Sera." Lando's voice filled my ear.
"What?" Napatayo ako sa upuan at natigilan nang matantong nakatingin na sa akin
ang buong board members.
"What's the matter, Engineer Miranda?" Someone asked.
"Nothing," I cleared my throat. "Continue, excuse me first."
I saw the look on Alice Tan's eyes, curious of the call I am taking.
"I will meet a client urgently," I said instead.
 I left them, habang nagpapaliwanag sa akin si Lando na nakatakas sa kanya si
Serafine ay iritadong-iritado ako.
"She's going to her friend's birthday." Paliwanag n'ya.
I stormed inside my office and stopped when I saw my annoying cousins inside.
"What the hell are you doing here?" I asked.
"Maniningil," Lucian showed me his notebook.
I hissed. "Tell me where she is," I told Lando and turned the call off.

Iritadong naupo ako sa swivel at sinapo ang noo.

She's nowhere to be found these days! We'll talk only for a bit and she won't
show her face to me tapos ay tatakasan n'ya ako?
"Nakabusangot 'yan?" Warrion asked his brother. Nangunot ang noo ko nang
makitang may bitbit s'yang pusa, nakalagay sa hita at pinaglalaruan ang damit n'ya.
"Don't know," He shrugged, glancing at me.
"Baka sa babae," Lucian said, nagulat ako nang tumayo at naglapag ng pakete sa
harapan ko.
Maiinis na sana ako pero nang makita kong mikmik ang nilapag n'ya ay umayos. I
took it, opened the pack frustatedly, kinuha ko ang straw af tumikim.
"Oh!" Lucian walked around, giving them their piece too. Wave smirked when he
got his, glancing at him.
"Libre?"
"Of course not, utang n'yo nga hindi n'yo mabayaran, manlilibre pa ako? Ambagan
tayo d'yan!" He hissed.
"I should be exempted," My forehead creased. "Nilibre ko kayo 'nung nakaraan ng
isang pakete, ah?"
"At bakit? Aber? 'Yong utang mo nga sixty ppint fifty pa!"
"Babayaran ko next week!" I hissed. "Sixty pesos lang--"
"May fifty centavos!" He hissed at me. "May interes na ito next week, Miranda!"
I scoffed, mabilis na kinuha ang phone nang umilaw at nakitang nasa bar daw si
Serafine para sa birthday ng kaibigan.
"Help me," I said, standing.
"Bakit? Saan?" Wave asked.
"Help me gatecrash a party," I said and they all stood and grinned at me.
Lando never mentioned it was a private party! Halos batukan ko s'ya sa galit
habang nakasimangot ako dahil hindi kami makapasok.
"Shit, I think we have a way." Lucian said.
"How?"
"Look, sa kabilang kwarto, may mga lalaki." My forehead creased.
"I won't fucking flirt with a man--"
"Tangina, gago kayo! Hindi!" He exclaimed. "Mga macho dancer!"
"And?" My forehead creased.
"Why don't you be one of the dancers instead?" He grinned.
"No fucking way," I hissed.
"Yes way," He said, "Right, Cas?"
"Just join them, back-up kami." Warrion said.
"Fuck you, no fucking way." My forehead creased, annoyed of their suggestion.
"Oh, I just saw your Serafine with a boy." I froze when I heard what Wave said.
"What?"
"She's with a man, bahala ka. We can just wait for her after the party--"
"How to be a fucking dancer?" I asked, cocked my head and glance at Caspian
with a wide grin on his face.
"Yeah, baby! Learn from the expert!" He exclaimed and I sighed, no choice and
followed his moves.
"Move your hips! Tigas ng katawan mo, bato ka ba?" He instructed and with a
heavy heart, I fucking moved my hips like a fucking macho dancer.
I can't believe I'm doing this for Serafine! Damn, woman, you got me good, huh?
I don't know but she actually really got me. Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras na
akong tulala sa hangin at sa kisame ng kwarto ko kakaisip sa kanya.

It hurts me seeing her bruises, It hurts me seeing her

crying and hurt.
After all these, kaya ko bang wala ang Serafine na iyon? She's like a spoiled
brat, making fun of me by calling me daddy. She flirts with me a lot that I think
of it as if she was just joking. She's too strong, she won't make me see her hurt
but why do I find her so fragile?
Why do I find her precious? A treasure I should take care before someone stole
her away from me.
She's Serafine, my brat, the fire that's keeping me warm and burning. My baby.
"It was Serafine Mendez's father!" Alice paced back and forth in front of me,
pilit na ipinapamukha ang nalaman.
I knew it but I remained mum.
"Vioxx!"
Impatient, I lifted my head, gazing at her. "I know, Engr. Tan, I'm looking
over it."
"Kahit ako na!" She exclaimed frustatedly. "Ako ang magpapaimbestiga sa tatay
n'ya! What's taking you so long, huh? You should catch him and make him confess!
S'ya ang mastermind!"
"You still don't have a proof, Engr. Tan. Seeing him in a CCTV isn't enough--"
"Eh, paano nga? They lack evidences but we have to find the culprit! Right
now!" She exclaimed.
Annoyed, I gaze at her, a slow smirk rose from my lips.
"Why are you stressing over Akisha's case, Engr. Tan? As far as I know, she is
related only to my family. She's a family friend. Walang kinalaman ang mga Tan sa
kanila." Natahimik s'ya, mas lalong tumalim ang tingin sa akin.
"Tell me, why are you so concerned of the case?"
She shut up, nakita ko kung paano s'ya suminghap at nag-iwas ng tingin.
"Because...Because her case is stopping our wedding!"
"I never agreed to get wed to you," I smirked. "Neither to her, I was just
helping to solve the case."
Her forehead creased more, enrage.
"Papakasalan mo ako! That's what your mother told you! For the company!"
"I'm not interested," I laughed, shaking my head and went back on my swivel.
"Huh! At bakit, ano? Sinong gusto mo? Iyong Serafine Mendez? Her father is a
culprit! Don't tell me you--"
"H'wag mong idamay si Serafine dito," I said coldly, glacing at her.
"Why not?" Her lips lifted. "Bakit? S'ya ba ang gusto mo--"
"I keep her only because of her father." I lied. "I won't stick to her if it's
just the case. If she found out about this and leave, isasama n'ya ang Tatay n'ya.
Tell me, how will I start looking for them again?"
Tumitig s'ya, tila binabasa ako. I stared back at her coldly, reading her
reaction and almost smiled when I saw her convinced.
"Don't mind my business, Engineer. Wala ka namang kinalaman dito, di ba?" I
watched her reaction.
"N-Nothing!" She glared and sighed.
Wala nga ba?
We went together, planning to buy groceries for her family.
"Ako na magbabayad, Rai." She said, sumilip sa balikat ko habang tumitingin sa
cashier.
I stared at her, slowly took her closely to me and kissed her head.
"Let me, baby." I said.
Humawak s'ya sa baywang ko at marahang inakbayan ko s'ya.
"What's the matter?" I asked.
 "Nothing, I just...I can pay? Nahihiya na ako sa'yo." She
whispered.
I chuckled, nakita kong ngumuso s'ya at sumulyap ss cashier pabalik sa akin.
"Let me remind you what I am?"
"Papa dè asukal," She whimpered.
I winked, pinch her cheek and slowly held her hand.
"Then let daddy pay, okay? It's okay." I said and she nodded, resting her head
on my arm.
After our grocery, I let her choose the restaurant she wanted for us. She
insisted to pay and I let her.
She chose a local fastfood and I gladly waited for her when she presented to
order for us. I'd like to treat her to finer restaurants but she was so happy she
get to choose a place for us.
"I'll order chicken, anong parte gusto mo?" She asked.
"Maging parte ng buhay mo." I said.
She froze, nang mamula ang pisngi n'ya ay natawa ako at kumindat.
"L-Landi mo!" She groaned.
I smirked, ngumuso s'ya ay tinapik ako.
"B-Breast part nalang sa'yo." Aniya.
My eyes fell on her chest and I laughed again when she gasped, kinurot na ako.
"Daddy, minamanyak mo ako!"
"Me?" I grinned. "Sino sa atin gustong sukatin ang ano ko--"
"Sshh! Bye! Order na ako!" She rolled her eyes and left.
When she came back, she was almost hopping to get to me. She placed the tray
infront of me, placing chicken joy and spaghetti and an ice cream.
"Masarap 'yan, halo-halo flavor ng ice cream!" Bida n'ya.
I smiled, nodding.
Nang maupo s'ya sa harapan ko ay nagsimula kaming magkwentuhan.
We talked about her studies and the life in engineering. I am proud of her for
pursuing her dreams, I feel proud hearing her say she wants to be successful for
her family.
My forehead creased when I saw two men looking in our way. Akala ko noong una
ay wala lang pero nang mapansing nagbubulungan sila at nag-ngingisian habang
sumusulyap ay nakatunog ako.
I saw them glancing at my Serafine's legs and my blood boiled.
"Tapos daddy, alam mo ang effective 'nung technique na tinuro mo--"
"Baby, let's exchange seats." I said.
"Hmm?" She looks shocked.
I glanced at the two men again and when they saw me, they immediately look
away.
"Huh? Why?" She asked.
"Come on, let's switch." I offered her my hand. Naguguluhan man ay tumango
s'ya, nang magpalit kami ay nagtataka ang kanyang mga mata.
I removed my coat, inilapag sa hita n'ya bago s'ya halikan sa noo at umupo sa
kaninang pwesto n'ya.
I saw her glance at the men near us and as if she understand me, she smiled and
nodded at me, muttering her thanks.
Habang pauwi na kami at naglalakad papuntang sasakyan ay tahimik lang kaming
dalawa.
I keep on glancing at her and saw her smiling a bit and I don't have the guts
to ask why. Afraid the smile isn't for me.
She lifted her hand, trying to take the plastic bags I am holding.
"Let me help," She said.
I switched all the grocery bags in one hand, caught her hand and intertwined
our fingers in my empty hand.
 "You saying?"
She blushed, glance at our fingers together and smiled.
"Thank you, daddy." She whispered and our eyes met. "For being kind and good to
me."
"You deserved it," I smiled and she tiptoed, kissed my cheek and walked with me
to my car.
Anything for you, baby. Anything for you.
I realized it's true that anything great would start crumbling if you thought
it's finally perfect.
Masakit man but I have to let her go, I have to let her have her piece of mind.
Bobo mo kasi, Miranda. Kaka-graduate lang ng tao, namatayan ng Tatay at hindi
sanay sa bagong buhay na mayroon s'ya ngayon pagkatapos ay aayain mong magpakasal?
"Ganyan talaga ang buhay, weather-weather lang." Caspian tapped my back and I
stared at him coldly, hindi ako umimik at pinagmasdan lang ang mga pinsan na naupo
sa harapan na sofa at kumuha ng alak.
"Naglalasing ka, hindi ka nag-aaya?" Warren asked and I just sighed, muling
nilagok ang alak at kumuha pa.
"Maybe she was pressured," Wave commented and I glanced at him.
"I pressured her, I guess." I whispered.
"Gulatan naman kasi 'yon, Vioxx." Lucian said and shook his head. "Bumisita ako
dito kasama 'yong mga ugok kasi sisingilin ko 'yong utang mo last--"
"Bayad na ako," Ngiwi ko.
"Gago, hindi." He hissed. "Nangutang ka kay Warrion 'nung papunta ka sa
probinsya ni Sera!"
"Oh, eh, bakit ka naniningil sa akin? Warrion should be--"
"Yong binigay n'ya sa'yo utang 'yon sa akin!" He scoffed. I glared at Warrion
who coughed on his wine when he saw me looking.
"I got no money! Nangutang ako d'yan sa pirata--"
"I'm a captain, not a pirate!" Lucian hissed.
"Whatever, wala akong pang-utang sa'yo kaya nangutang ako kay Lucian. Sabi ko
sa'yo ilista." Warrion said.
I sighed, sinapo ang noo ko at umiling.
"Look, I got a problem now." I said.
"Hindi kita sisingilin," Lucian hissed. "May puso naman ako, gago kayo."
Natawa sila pero umiling lang ako at sumandal, hinihilot ang sentido.
Siguro marupok talaga ako at wala sa bokabolaryo ko ang pagsuko kaya ilang taon
akong naging tambay sa probinsya nila.
"Engineer, kailan tayo magpapakita?" Lando asked while pretending to be a
security guard.
"Don't know, hindi pa siguro s'ya handang makita tayo." I said, slowly mopping
on the floor because I'm a janitor now.
"Eh, ilang taon na tayong sumusunod kay Ma'am--"
"Andyan na s'ya!" I hissed.
Lando panicked, mabilis na inangat ang mask at nagbaba ng ulo.
I silently watched Serafine while going out of her car and walked confidently
inside her own firm.
"Ma'am, keys." The valet asked and she gave it to him with a smile. That...took
my breath away.
She is wearing a white coat and pants partnered in a formal crop top with her
hair in a tight bun. She was holding her hand bag.
Her eyes turned slit while walking with her cold face but when her employees
greeted her, she will immediately smile at them and greet them good morning.

My baby, I am so proud of you.

Lando's hand almost shake when Sera greeted him and I sighed.
What a bad actor, Lando!
Nang papunta na s'ya sa akin ay mabilis akong tumungo at napasinghap.
 I put on my mask and cap, patuloy akong naglalampaso sa lapag nang maramdaman
ang presensya niya.
"Good morning, Kuya." She greeted.
"G-Good morning, Engineer." I said, trying my best to fake my voice but my
heart is so fucking fast!
Nagpigil ako para hindi s'ya matignan sa mata sa takot na mabuko pero napatalon
ako nang hawakan n'ya ang braso ko.
"Iba ata ang boses mo, Kuya? Pahinga ka muna, baka pagod ka." Aniya.
"A-Ayos lang, Engineer." Pumiyok pa ata ang tang inang boses ko.
"Pumipiyok ka na, Kuya." Aniya. "Pahinga ka po muna."
"A-Ayos lang, salamat." I said.
She sighed, I glance at her and saw her nodding. Concern was visible in her
eyes, nang tumingin s'ya sa mukha ko ay muli akong umiwas.
"Uh, may iba ka bang kasama sa maintenance, Kuya? Pasuyo po ako, sira kasi ang
aircon sa opisina." Aniya.
"S-Sige po." I nodded and lowered my head.
"Salamat, Kuya. Inom ka po gamot." Aniya at ngumiti bago umalis.
I watched her as she made her way to the elevator, I watched how employees
greeted her and she'd respond kindly.
My heart thugged, happy for her. Happy for the kindness remained in her heart
despite of her harsh world.
"Ako na ang pupunta sa opisina ni Engineer!" Ani ng isa sa maintenance roon
nang sinabi kong ako ang aakyat.
"No," I said and he stopped.
"Okay lang 'yan, Armando. Ako nalang at alam kong tinatamad ka--"
"Hell no," I hissed and he stopped.
"Wow, englishero ka pala!" Aniya and I sighed, hinilot ang sentido at tumikhim.
"Hindi, narinig ko lang." I said and he nodded. "Ako na ang mag-aayos ng aircon
doon."
"Ako na," aniya. "Crush ko iyon si Engineer, pasulyap lang--"
"Ako." I said and pointed myself. "Ako ang aakyat."
Before he could even say something, I walked out, dala ang panlinis at gamit
para makita ang sira ng aircon ay dumiretso ako sa opisina ng mahal ko.
Even if I was hiding to an unknown identity, I should look presentable. Inayos
ko ang mask at ang cap ko bago inayos ang unipormeng suot at nagspray pa ng
pabango.
Kinatok ko ang kanyang opisina para makapasok at nang marinig ang boses n'ya ay
doon na ako pumasok.
I saw how she shifted her gaze from looking at the blueprint infront of her to
me.
"A-Aayos pong aircon," I said.
"Sige po, pasok lang. Salamat." She smiled.
I nodded, tahimik s'yang tumitig sa blueprint, tila may iniisip na malalim
habang pasulyap-sulyap ako sa kanya mula sa pagkalas ng aircon.
She was deep in her thoughts, pabalik-balik na pinaglalaruan ang ballpen na
hawak.
Habang tinatanggal ang aircon para linisin ay nasulyapan ko ang blueprint na
hawak n'ya at wala sa loob na nagsalita.

"Maybe you should consider a foundation here," I pointed

the blueprint.
She froze, mabilis s'yang napasulyap sa akin at tumikhim ako, mabilis na nag-
iwas at muling inayos ang aircon.
"Y-You think so too? I was thinking the same thing, kailangan ko lang
ipaliwanag sa Architect." She muttered. "Wow, ang galing mo naman, Kuya."
I almost cursed myself from butting-in, hindi nalang ako umimik habang nag-
aayos para maiwasan ang katangahan.
 "Anong pangalan mo, Kuya?" Aniya, kuryoso na. "Ang galing mo, kanina ko pa kasi
iniisip kung tama ba na ganoon pero 'nung sinabi mo--"
"H-Hula ko lang, Engineer." I cleared my throat.
Damn you, Miranda!
"Hmm, anong name n'yo?"
"A-Armando." I muttered.
I saw her nodded, natensyon na ako nang tumayo s'ya at bahagya akong nilapitan.
"Anong problema ng aircon, Kuya Armando?" Aniya.
I smelled her sweet scent, in a verge of hugging her but I remained calm.
"M-Madumi lang." Pinaliit ko ang boses.
She nodded, I saw her sat in the side of her table and watched me as I, filled
with tension, clean the aircon with my fucking shaking hands.
"Talaga bang nakamask kayo, Kuya?" She asked. "Ilang araw na kitang nakikita
dito pero hindi ko pa nakikita ang mukha mo."
"R-Required po." I said.
"Hmm, anyway, ano pong pabango n'yo?"
I froze at that, my heart hammered inside my chest.
"B-Bakit?"
"Wala lang, parehas po ata kasi kayo ng pabango ng boyfriend ko."
Nilingon ko s'ya at nakita kong nakatitig s'ya sa paa n'ya.
"H-Huh?"
"Wala, Kuya." She chuckled non-chalantly. "It's just...you have the same scent
as him. I don't know if kilala n'yo, but he's also an engineer."
Napatitig ako sa kanya at nakita kong ginagalaw na n'ya ang paa na may maliit
na ngiti.
"Engr. Vioxx Miranda, kilala n'yo?" Nang humarap s'ya ay mabilis akong nag-iwas
at tumikhim.
"No," I said. Nawala na ang pagkakalma sa narinig.
Fuck, boyfriend pa rin n'ya ako.
Damn it, Miranda, calm down! You are still her boyfriend!
"Nasaan s'ya ngayon?" I asked and she sighed, shaking her head.
"I was hurt and I broke his heart too," Mahinang sabi n'ya. "Baka galit iyon sa
akin."
My heart constricted.
"I'm not, baby." I said seriously.
She froze, mabilis na humarap sa akin kaya nagmura ako, mabilis na bumaling sa
aircon at mas ibinaba ang cap.
"A-Anong sabi mo, Kuya?" She asked and my mind went haywire thinking of an
alibi.
"B-Baby, I mean, you know that song with the lyrics number one baby?" I asked,
shaking.
Fuck, Miranda!
"H-Huh?" She blinked rapidly.
"Nasayaw ko lang kasi sa tiktok," I said and when I saw her mouth parted, I
gasped.

I quickly took my things with me and looked away. "Excuse

me, Engr. Paakyatin ko 'yong m-maintenance."
Halos kumuripas ako ng takbo sa nagawa.
My cousins almost died laughing when I shared it to them.
"I ran out of excuses!"
"Gago ka, bakit ka marupok kang gago ka?" Wave asked, laughing his ass out and
I cursed.
"Good thing I remembered that song!" I exclaimed and Caspian clapped his hand.
"How did you know that?" Warrion asked me and I glanced at the laughing
Caspian.
"Well," Cas shrugged. "Thank me, everyone. Nagti-tiktok kami ni Riu ng ganoon
ang kanta! Narinig n'ya!"
I sighed and my cousins suggested a plan how I could make a move to my woman
again.
"Padalhan mo ng bulaklak," Warrion suggested when we reached Casa Amara, pareho
pa kaming hinihingal dahil sa pagtakbo galing sa bahay ni Sera.
"How? As if she'll take it if it's from me." I said.
Caspian came back, katatapos lang iparada ang traysikel at tinapik ako.
"Bellboy," He said.
"Ako?" I asked.
"Hindi, ito." He said and we all shifted our gaze to the confused Warren,
bagong gising pa at kakamot-kamot sa batok.
"Tang ina, ako nanaman?!" He screamed when we forced him to wear a uniform.
"Sige na!" Warrion hissed. "Kaya mo naman, ah?"
"Gago ba kayo? Una, bodyguard ng asawa ni darling Warrion ko tapos ngayon
bellboy nanaman ng sugar baby mo?!" He exclaimed.
"She's Sera! Don't call her baby because she's my baby, okay?" I hissed.
"Ayaw ko nga!" Warren hissed, folding his hands on his chest.
"Arte naman nito ni Warren, sige na!" Cas said.
"At anong mapapala ko, aber?" He groaned, annoyed.
Nanahimik kami at nang may maalala ay sumulyap ako sa kanya at tumaas ang sulok
ng labi.
"Nothing pero kilala ko si Architect Scira Valderama." I said and he froze.
He blinked, glance at Warrion and cleared his throat.
"Akin na nga 'yan! Hindi kayo nagsasabi kaagad." Aniya habang sinusuot ang
uniporme.
Crazy to think what we all did for love but that's how it works. No pain, no
gain. If I didn't do it then I won't have my baby girl back to me.
From: Baby girl
Hi, Daddy! You'll be late tonight, right?
To: Baby girl
Yes, I got to sign some paperworks. Have you eaten yet?
From: Baby girl
Okay! Punta ako sa condo mo? I wanna sleep there, palagi nalang tayo sa unit ko
natutulog. Miss ko na 'yong iyo :((((
To: Baby girl
Okay, no problem. Kumain ka na?
From: Baby girl
Not yet :(
To: Baby girl
Why??? It's near one, woman!
From: Baby girl
Miss you :(
Hindi na ako nakatiis, I stood from my seat, nagsitinginan sa akin ang board ka
tumikhim ako.
"Excuse me first, proceed." I said.
Nang makalabas ako ay mabilis na tinawagan ko si Serafine na buhay na buhay
nang sumagot.
"Daddy ko! Hello! Love you!"

My heart immediately melted, nawala ang inis ko at

suminghap.
"Hi, baby, Iove you." I said like a puppy.
She giggled, pumasok naman ako sa opisina at naupo sa swivel habang nakikipag-
usap.
"Bakit hindi ka pa kumakain? It's one." I said.
"Kakadating lang food ko. My food's too hot and I can't eat it." She sighed.
"You're too hot but I still eat you, tho." I said.
 She screamed on the line, natawa ako at sumandal sa swivel, pumikit para
pakinggan ang irit n'ya.
"Bad daddy! You're making me blushed!" She exclaimed and I laughed.
"I love you, Sera and my baby in that tummy of yours."
"Love you, Rai. Kain din ako maya-maya. Buti tumawag ka, I am bored here in my
unit. Nakapili ako ng magandang mga bulaklak para sa church tapos wala na akong
ginagawa." She said sadly.
I smiled, played my lip with my fingers.
"I will try my best to finish my work here early, is that alright?"
"Okay, punta ako sa unit mo mamaya? I wanted to cook you food. Daan ako sa
market."
"Sure, baby. Promise aagahan ko, I will multitask. I will bring this papers
while in a meeting." I said. She giggled, mas pinalambing pa ang boses.
The call ended and I'm in a good mood. Pagkalabas ko palang ng opisina ay
binati ako ng mga empleyado at nang makitang nagtutumpukan sila sa isang lamesa sa
isang gilid ay lumapit ako.
"Engineer!" Nagpanic sila kaagad at nagsialisan, natawa ako sa kanila.
"It's alright, it's lunch time. Anong pinagkakaguluhan n'yo?" I asked.
"Hi, Engineer!" Trisha and Roff, Sera's friends in my firm, sila pa ata ang
pasimuno.
"What is that?" I asked and Trisha answered me.
"Nagpe-flames kami, Engineer."
"Huh?" I asked. "What is that?"
"Flames po, laro 'yon, para malaman kung meant-to-be ba kayo ng partner mo."
Aniya.
I got curious, kumunot ang noo ko roon.
"How will you do it?" I asked.
She showed me her paper, tumaas pa ang kilay ko nang makita ang buong pangalan
ni Trisha at sa tabi noon ay ang pangalan ni Marco Flores, pinsan ng fiancèe ko.
"Ang flames po, kada letter may meaning." Aniya and she showed me the paper.
F - Friends
L - Lovers
A - Anger
M - Marriage
E - Enemy
S - Soulmates
"Tapos, sulat mo buong pangalan mo tapos pangalan ng partner tapos cross-out
all the letters na pareho kayong mayroon. 'Yong total, bilangin n'yo tapos makikita
n'yo kung saan kayo sa flames. Example, twelve, letter S. Edi soulmates!" Aniya.
My eyes widen, nodding my head.
"Gusto mo try natin kayo ni Sera?" Ani Trisha and I shook my head and smiled.
"Ako na, I'll try later." I said and waved at them to go back to the meeting.
I was so eager to try that game when I got home pero nawala sa utak ko nang
makita ang mapapangasawa kong abala sa pagluluto.
I walked slowly towards her, hiding the bouquet of roses on my back. I caught
her, napatalon s'ya sa gulat habang nililingon ako kaya ngumiti ako.
"Hi, baby." I kissed her cheek.

"Daddy!" She exclaimed, I showed her the flowers,

natutuwang inabot n'ya iyon bago ako harapin para yakapin at halikan.
"Thank you! I love you!" She exclaimed happily.
We ate together with the foods she cooked for us. Matapos 'nun ay nanuod kami
ng movie habang s'ya ay nakaupo sa sofa at ako ay nakahiga sa hita n'ya.
She was brushing my hair, biting on her pizza and I hugged her waist softly,
kissing her small baby bump.
"How's the flowers?" I asked her and she glanced at me, smiling.
"Hmm, still good." Aniya. "I chose light colors since, gusto ko sana pastel ang
vibe." She said, combing my hair.
I stood from her leg, nagtataka akong tinignan kaya tumayo ako at pumwesto sa
likod n'ya.
She chuckled when she realized what I will do. She gave me space, nang makakuha
ng pwesto sa kanyang likuran ay mabilis ko s'yang niyakap sa baywang at paulit-ulit
na hinalikan ang kanyang leeg.
"Rai..." She called.
"Hmm?" I hummed, removing some strands of her hair covering her neck and gave
it more tiny kisses.
"Wala lang, I love you." She whispered.
My heart jumped, my kisses on her neck continued as I touched her belly.
"Daddy, alam mo, I'm a bit sad kasi baka hindi na magkasya sa akin ang wedding
gown." She sighed.
I stopped, hinawakan ko ang panga n'ya at marahan s'yang ipinaharap sa akin.
"And why?"
"I eat a lot, I felt a lot more bigger." She sighed.
I inserted my hand on his shirt, marahang inangat ang kamay at humawak sa
dibdib n'ya.
"Medyo lumaki nga," I muttered.
"Rai!" She exclaimed, I laughed, inserted my other hand and massaged his breast
alternately.
"W-What are you doing..." She muttered.
"Hmm? Massage?" I asked.
She gasped, ipinaling ang ulo n'ya at hinayaan akong halikan ang leeg n'ya.
"Y-You're so clingy, Rai." She whispered and I chuckled, slowly pulling her
close to me and caught his lips.
We exchanged deep kisses, nang harapin n'ya ako ay walang hirap kong hinaplos
ang hita n'ya at inalalayan s'ya.
She straddled me, moving her hips back and forth my waist and I moaned, kissing
her harder.
"I want you," I whispered when our eyes met and she bit her lip, touched my jaw
and lowered her head to grant me a sweet kiss again.
Wala na ata kaming kasawaan sa isa't-isa, I can't get enough while staring at
the face of my future wife.
My sweet baby.
She was cuddling me, her head is on my arm. Marahang sinusuklay ang kanyang
buhok habang malalim ang tulog n'ya.
"You'll be my wife, hmm..." I whispered and kissed her head.
She moved a bit and yawned, mas niyakap ko s'ya at hinalikan sa noo.
"Sleep, baby." I whispered and brushed her hair.
After a moment, she was fast asleep. Nakangiti ako habang pinagmamasdan s'yang
tahimik sa bisig ko.
She was tangled on my sheets, her hair spread on the pillow. Her beautiful face
never failed to bewitch me, kahit noong unang kita pa lang naming dalawa.

She was smiling brightly that day and I thought her lips
would taste more sweeter than the cake she offered me.
I started thinking of the family I will build for her, for our baby. I promise
to work harder for the both of them. I promise to be better.
I promise to love you everyday until the day I die.
I suddenly remembered the game earlier in my office, slowly, I moved away from
here. Inilagay ko ang unan sa ulo n'ya at binalot s'ya ng kumot bago nagtungo sa
upuan ko sa may gilid ng higaan.
I immediately took one scratch paper and started scribbling the meaning of F-L-
A-M-E-S.
Vioxx Ephraim Miranda
Serafine Veronica Mendez
 I got busy, I crossed out the letters our name both has. Malaki pa ang ngiti
nang makitang marami akong na-cross out.
I began counting each letter and they both has a total of thirty-three.
I started counting and my smile froze when I got the letter A.
F - Friends
L - Lovers
A - Anger
M - Marriage
E - Enemy
S - Soulmates
"Fuck..." I muttered under my breath.
I must be wrong.
I started writing our names again, scribbling nad crossing out some letters and
my forehead creased when I still got the same!
"Shit!" I hissed, I crumpled the paper and threw it away, annoyed.
"What's the matter?" Natigilan lang ako nang makitang gising si Serafine at
kunot ang noo sa akin.
"Nothing, baby." I sighed. "Sleep again, I'll join you in a while."
She didn't listen, I saw her wore my shirt and walked, marahanh kinuha ang
tinapon kong papel sa lapag at naglakad palapit sa akin.
"What's this?" She asked, sitting on my lap.
"Just...some childish fucking game." I whispered and hugged her waist.
Nagtago ako sa kanyang leeg, narinig ko ang pagbukas n'ya ng papel at maya-maya
ay humagalpak ng tawa.
"What the heck, Daddy? Flames? Seriously?" She exclaimed.
I sighed, natawa s'ya ulit at hinawakan ang pisngi ko.
"Who taught you this?"
"No one," I said, umiwas at akmang magtatago sa leeg n'ya pero muli n'ya akong
inabot.
"Come on, Rai. Why are you sulking?"
"I fucking got an A." I said.
She laughed, muling tinignan ang papel.
"Anger?" She chuckled. "This isn't true, Rai."
"They say that will show you if destined ka sa partner mo--"
"Silly, naniwala ka? Eh, ikakasal na nga tayo?" She asked.
My forehead creased and sighed.
"Atleast an M or S would do! Bakit anger? Galit ka ba sa akin?" I sulked and
she chuckled, cupping my cheek and kissing my lips.
"No!" Her eyes danced in amusement. "I love you, Rai."
"Magpapapalit na ako ng pangalan," I said and she laughed again, shaking her
head.
"Oh my God, Rai! It's just a game!"
"Eh, hindi tayo meant-to-be!" I groaned angrily.
"Oh, no, daddy." She shook her head, touching my jaw.

"That isn't fair Serafine, I want it to be good! Like get

another letter! Not a fucking A--"
"Then, let's prove this game wrong." Lambing n'ya, marahang hinaplos ang panga
ko. She brushed my hair and looked at me softly.
"How?" I sighed. "Hindi ko matanggap, Serafine. I will fucking change my name
to make it better."
"Ikakasal naman na tayo." Suyo n'ya. "Atsaka, once we get married, wala nang
saysay ang larong 'yan. And we have our baby na."
"Hindi pa rin ako masaya. I'll never be contented." I insisted.
"Pero malapit na ang wedding, come on, Rai." She touched my face again.
"I want to prove that game wrong, Sera." I sighed frustatedly.
"We will, Rai. After our wedding."
 "That's two months from now. I can't wait." I looked away.
"Sige, ganito nalang." She said and I looked at her, curious.
"How about...we scheduled our wedding date earlier?"
That caught my attention, umayos ako ng upo at tumitig sa kanya.
"I can do that?" My eyes widen.
"Uh-hmm," She nodded, kissing my forehead.
My heart jumped in happiness, I grinned, kissed her head immediately and gave
her a smack.
"You're the best! I love you!" I exclaimed and assisted her to stand.
"Ako pa," She grinned.
I kissed her again, mabilis na tumakbo sa drawer para halughugin ang tinatago
kong wedding ring.
"Rai? What are you doing?"
"Fix yourself, baby." I said, smirking when I saw the box.
"Huh? Why?" She looks lost and I grinned, mabilis akong lumapit sa kanya at
muli s'yang hinalikan.
"We'll get wed tonight," I said.
Her mouth parted, blinking at me.
Inangat ko ang kamay n'ya matapos kong tanggalin sa pendant ng kwintas ko noon
pa ang singsing sana para sa kanya noon. I inserted it on her finger where the new
ring she has is placed.
Patayin man ako ng mga pinsan ko sa imbitasyon ko kahit madaling-araw ay wala
na akong pakialam.
We went to Casa Amara, my future wife wearing a simple white dress and I am
wearing a suit and tie.
Inaantok pa ang pari nang pumasok kami sa private room ng Casa kung nasaan
naroon na ang mga pinsan.
"Ano bang trip n'yo?" Cas asked, yawning. Nakasabit pa sa kanyang balikat ang
lagayan ng isa sa triplets.
"Thanks, everyone!" I grinned, waving at them.
"Damn you, Miranda! I'm sleepy!" Warrion hissed, nakahawak sa baywang ng asawa
na humihikab pa.
"Do we get to eat after this?" Wave asked and I grinned. "My wife's hungry." He
pointed her wife.
Serafine was laughing beside me but I saw how her eyes swelled with tears. She
was watching me happily, her lips quivered while trying her best to stop her cries.
Sleepily, the priest blessed our simple wedding, bonding us together.
Who needs a perfect wedding if you already got a perfect wife?
Her tears were falling while watching me put her wedding ring on her finger.
Bakas ko ang saya sa kanyang mata.
My eyes were in the verge of crying too, pinipigilan ko lang dahil paniguradong
maiiyak din ang Serafine ko.
"Pa-mikmik ka naman d'yan!" Caspian exclaimed and whistled.
"Iiyak na 'yan!" Kantyaw ng mga pinsan at pati ang pari ay natawa nang kumawala
ang hikbi sa labi ko.
I closed my eyes and my tears fell. My wife laughed, hugging me and kissed my
ear.
"I love you, Daddy Rai." She whispered.
"I love you too, baby girl." I said, my hand found her tummy and I caressed it
softly. "And to my little baby here, I'll spoil you so much."
"I now pronounce you, man and wife. You may kiss the bride." The priest
announced and my heart hammered inside my chest.
Happily, I cupped her cheek.
I stared at Serafine Veronica Mendez-Miranda.
I stared at the wonderful woman infront of me, my life, my love, the fire who
keeps me burning brightly out of darkness.
My wife.
I kissed her deeply and I heard the loud cheers from our still sleepy guests.
"Sana all may jowa!" Warren exclaimed loudly.
 "Bayad muna utang!" I heard Lucian's familiar voice, shocked he made it here.
I smirked, kissing my wife again.
Fuck, F-L-A-M-E-S. We're married now.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

DWF Special Chapter

Ang tagal na na-delay! Huhuhu! Kawawa naman si Papa dé

asukal! Hahaha pero ito na! Enjoy!

xxx
DWF Special Chapter
"Good evening po, Engineer Miranda." I smiled when they greeted me.
"Good evening." I said and then left.
Striding the long, and a bit dark hallway, I walked a bit fast. I glanced at my
watch and cursed under my breath when I almost forgot our dinner date tonight.
I got a bit busy with my work today and I forgot about it! Ngayon, para na
akong napa-praning sa paglalakad makapunta lang sa parking.
I missed my husband calls, naka-silent pa ang telepono ko at hindi ko alam kung
anong iniisip 'nun. He promised to fetch me at seven and now it's eight pero hindi
man lang ako nakababa ng maaga!
He didn't go to my office too and I am thinking na baka galit na iyon.
"Engineer, magandang gabi."
"Good evening," I smiled and nodded before going out.
My eyes immediately roamed around the parking lot and I cursed under my breath
when I saw my husband's familiar car.
My heart beat rapidly inside my chest, naiinis sa sariling hindi ko s'ya
napuntahan kaagad at mas inuna pa ang trabaho.
I bit my lip, touched my shoulder bag as I walked faster towards his car.
"Rai—" I froze, stopped when I saw my husband sleeping inside his car with the
window slightly opened.
"Gosh, daddy." I sighed, my heart fell while looking at my husband.
We're now working in the same company, years ago, after our marriage, we
decided to merge the Miranda and Flores firm. Hindi lang kami masyadong nagkakasama
sa opisina ngayon dahil palagi s'yang nasa site habang ako ay nasa opisina.
Now, we had our time to dine outside. Maaga s'yang umalis sa site pero ako
naman itong huli!
"Rai?" I called, knocking his window a bit. "Daddy?" I said and I saw how he
stirred on his seat, his sleepy eyes glanced at me and I smiled awkwardly.
"Bakit ka natutulog d'yan?" I asked and I saw him closed his eyes a bit, umayos
s'ya ng upo at napaatras ako nang buksan n'ya ang pintuan ng sasakyan.
"You're here..." He immediately muttered and I sighed, I moved immediately at
him and my heart swelled when he offered his arms for a hug and I rested his head
on my shoulder.
"Sorry, baby." I whispered a bit, slowly putting my bag on his dashboard so I
could hug him more.
"Paper works?" He whispered and I nodded, sighing. I touched his hair a bit and
he hugged me more and I felt him kissed my neck.
"Hmm," I hummed. "How about the site?"
"Doing good too," he whispered, his husky voice lingered at me and slowly
pushed me to touch my cheeks.
"Let's go?" He asked and I pouted, slowly kissed his lips.
"Sorry, daddy." I muttered. "Usapan natin seven pero eight na."
"It's alright," he smiled a bit, "nakatulog naman ako."
"Pero sana umakyat ka na lang, doon ka muna natulog sa opisina." I said and he
smirked.
I saw how his brown eyes glistened a bit, his lips protruded and glanced at me.
"Kiss na lang," he said and I chuckled, shaking my head, I pinched his nose and
tap his cheek.

"Ang harot-harot ni Engineer Miranda," I muttered.

"Ikaw rin, Engineer Miranda." He said back and I giggled a bit.
"Kiss," he said, his pouting lips moved a bit and I smiled, lowering my body so
I could kiss him.
It was supposed to be a quick one, a smack perhaps but it deepened when he
cupped my cheek and deepened the kisses.
I moaned when he bit my lower lip, I opened my mouth and welcomed him and now
our tongue battling with its own battle.
I felt his grip on my waist and to my shock, in just a quick move, I am inside
the car, straddling him.
"What..." I muttered and froze.
"Sexy naman ni Mrs. Miranda," he suddenly said and I gulped miserably.
"How did you..." I pointed the open door where I was just standing earlier and
now...
"Magic," he smirked, closed the door immediately and glanced at me.
My heart hammered inside my chest, hindi ko alam kung dahil ba kinakabahan ako
o na-e-excite sa trip naming mag-asawa ngayon.
"R-Rai, we should dine—"
"You're a naughty girl," his husky voice said and now I'm frozen in my place.
"S-Sorry, I..."
"You know bad girls needs to be punished, hmm?" He said, slowly unbuttoning my
blouse.
"R-Rai," I muttered, my breath labored while watching him slowly removing my
blouse and feasting on my body. "I'm sorry I forgot—" My voice faded when he moved
his face and kissed the middle of my chest.
"R-Rai, nasa p-parking tayo, paano kapag may nakakita?" I whispered yet purred
a bit when he lowered my brassiere and kissed my peak.
"Don't you want daddy to punish you?" He asked, lifting his head and meeting my
eyes.
"O-Of course, I want." I said under my breath. "But we're just near the office
and—"
"No talking, be a good baby girl and just moan for daddy, hmm?" He hummed and
now, I am turned on.
"O-Okay." I said in a small voice and watched him kissed my naked chest,
sucking my peaks and licking it.
My eyes were on him, my back is resting on the steering wheel and enjoying his
feast on my breast.
I moved my waist a bit, slowly thrusting on his tightening pants and I felt him
moved a bit and lifted my skirt.
''D-Daddy..." I whispered, he kissed my neck, I felt him sucking my skin and I
bet it would leave a mark.
"Yes, baby girl?" He whispered, his tongue moving on my neck down my throat and
I gripped his hair when I felt his hands on my feminity, slowly moving my panties
aside so he could touch me bare.
"M-More..." I said in a small voice and he chuckled, slowly lifting me and
pushed me more on the steering wheel.
"Spread your legs, Serafine." He said in a dark voice and gulping, I parted my
legs to let him see.
I saw how fire ignited on his eyes. I gasped audibly when I saw how his digit
entered me.
His jaw clenched and I writhe above him while watching him teasing me. He
cupped my breast with his other hand, tugging my peaks and playing it on his thumb.
 "R-Rai...ah!" I groaned.
His pace fasted, he feasted on my breast again while finger fucking me and when
he inserted another digit, I almost convulsed.

"D-Daddy, oh gosh...faster!" I gasped and I saw him

smirked, kissed my lips deeply and when I felt the verge of release, he suddenly
withdrawn his finger and now my eyes are so wide.
"Vioxx Ephraim!" I exclaimed loudly and I saw him smirking.
"Punishment," he said and I groaned, annoyed.
"Rai, I am telling you!" I hissed and he licked his lower lip, glancing at my
parted legs while I'm seated on his lap.
"Pleasure yourself," he said and I stiffened.
I glared at him, he just smirked at me and rested his head on the seat, as if
not doing anything.
"Bitin ako!" I exclaimed, annoyed now yet he just showed me his finger inside
my core earlier and licked it sensually while staring at me.
"Want me to fuck you?" He said and I sighed.
"S'yempre!" I hissed. "Y-You'll make me feel horny yet you'd stop!"
"That's called punishment, baby girl." He said and lifted his hand to touch my
cheek. "Now, pleasure yourself, let me watch and I promise to make you cum."
I groaned, almost pulled my hair in frustration but I am freaking turned on! I
glared at him again but then slowly lowered my finger on my core and I cursed under
my breath when I entered my digit inside me.
"Fuck!" I cursed loudly and I saw how his jaw clenched.
I moved my finger inside, I saw him watching me intently, turned on just by
looking at me pleasuring myself.
His eyes darkened, I saw him wanting to reach me but stopping his self.
"You like this, daddy, huh..." I mocked when I saw him wanting to touch me.
"Shut up, Serafine." He hissed and I smirked more.
I cupped my breast, moving my finger on my peaks while glancing at him, moaning
a bit while pleasuring myself.
"Hmm, someone's turned on." I whispered a bit and groaned while touching
myself. "Kumusta naman ang susi ng tagumpay natin d'yan, daddy Rai?"
"Come here," he said impatiently and I know it's effective.
"I don't want," I said, purring more and he cursed under his breath.
"Fuck, temptress..." He hissed under his breath and I chuckled a bit when he
moved my body closer.
"Uh-hmm," I stopped him, slowly removing my hand on my core and licked it while
looking at him.
"Punishment, huh? It looks like I'm the one punishing the bad, old daddy?" I
teased but gasped when he pulled me a bit, kissing me harshly and deeply.
I helped him get rid of his pants and a moment later, I am riding him and we
tried our best not to make any sound that would disturb other people at parang
nagsisi kaming dalawa sa kalokohan namin nang pagod kami pagkatapos.
We were both sweating. Rai's forehead is creased while buttoning my blouse
back.
"Napagod ka na? Sabi ko kasi sa'yo mag-gatas kang pang-buto." I asked and he
glared at me.
"Mas malakas pa ako sa kalabaw, Serafine." He tsk-ed and I laughed, cupping his
face and kissing his forehead.
"Ang gwapo naman ng daddy na 'yan," I muttered, slowly buttoning his dress
shirt too.
"Yeah, sipsip." He laughed and I pulled his hair a bit.
"Totoo nga!" I exclaimed and he smirked, immediately lifted my chin and kissed
my lips.
 "What the hell are we doing, Serafine?" He suddenly asked
and I laughed, shrugging.
"I don't know either, daddy." I said and when we stared at each other, we both
laughed.
Rai took his handkerchief and dried my forehead, sinuklay ko naman ang buhok
n'ya gamit ang daliri ko at nang naging maayos na ay inalalayan n'ya ako paupo sa
shotgun.
"Should we have dinner?" He asked, slowly moving a bit to fix my seatbelt and
gave my forehead a quick kiss.
"Of course," I muttered. "Nag-dinner ka na ba?"
"I just had mine," he said and when I realized what is he referring too, I
glared at him and he laughed, shaking his head and pinched my cheek.
"My baby's cute." He said and I shook my head, smiling too.
"I'm tired too but we have to bond, right? Pareho tayong tutok sa trabaho
kaya..." I said and he smiled and nodded.
"Alright, saan mo gusto?" He asked.
"Surprise me?" I said and he nodded, his brown eyes shined when he pinched my
cheek and gave me a small kiss.
"I love you, baby girl."
"I love you too," I whispered and kissed him too. "Pag-uwi natin, dalhan nating
pasalubong 'yong batang makulit."
"Sure," he said and touched my face a bit before starting the car's engine.
I thought he'll bring me to any restaurants in town but I was shocked when we I
realized he brought me to the street foods and carinderya lane.
"You like it here, Mrs, Miranda?" He asked me and chuckling, I nodded.
"Amusing, my daddy." I said and he smirked, went out of the car before going at
my side of the door. He opened it, offered hiss hand to me which I gladly took and
I smiled when he kissed my hand after that.
"I love you," I whispered and I saw him winked at me, slowly removing his grip
on my hand and put his hand on my waist, slowly caressing it while assisting me to
walk.
"So, where do you want daddy to treat you, baby girl?" He suddenly asked and I
pouted, slowly moving my head and almost drooled when I saw the lomi.
"There..." Tinuro ko ang istante, "treat your baby girl, papa dé asukal?" I
said and I saw his forehead creased a bit and I laughed when he pinched my nose.
"You're still not over that, Serafine?" He tsk-ed. "Daddy is good but that..."
"It's Spanish! Papa dé asukal..." I muttered with the accent and bursted out
laughing when Rai glared at me.
"Serafine..." He said in a warning voice.
"Oh, come on, Daddy Rai. What do you like, minatamis na gurang?" I said at nang
mas bumusangot s'ya ay natutuwang nilingon ko s'ya at pinatakan ng halik.
"Aww, my daddy is mad, hmm?" I said in a small voice and groaning, he lowered
his head and kissed my lips.
"Mamaya ka sa'kin, Serafine." He warned me and I giggled.
"Antayin ko 'yan, ah?" I said, lifting my brows and he smirked. Take my hand
again and pulled me towards the store.
I am amazed and feel contented while my husband is assisting me to sit towards
the empty place, sa may gilid malapit sa bintana.
He's still wearing his dress shirt and slacks and I'm still wearing my
corporate attire yet dinner dates like this with my husband will never feel old and
boring.
"What do you like to eat?" He asked.
"Hmm, lomi?" I said and he frowned at me. I laughed, inabot ko ang kamay n'ya
at pinaglaruan ang daliri n'ya.

"Ikaw na bahala, Rai. Same na lang sa'yo." I said and he

watched me a bit, his brown eyes lingered on my face and I smiled when he touched
my lips again, as if tempted to kiss me again but stopping himself because we're in
public.
"I'll go," he said and smiling, I nodded and waved my hand.
I waited for my husband, I watched him from afar as he went in line to order
foods for us and I saw how attention catcher he is.
Tall, strict and handsome.
Engineer Vioxx Ephraim Miranda sure is a girl magnet, ilang taon na kaming
magkasama yet his charm didn't fade. I remember being jealous with his girl's
clients in our few years of marriage, nagagalit ako kapag may lumalandi sa asawa ko
but then slowly, I learned how to trust I marriage more.
Pinatunayan n'ya kasi sa'king kahit maraming babae, ako at ako pa rin ang
gugustuhin n'ya, walang iba.
We had a lot of fights, lalo na noong buntis ako pero s'ya ang nagpapakumbaba,
s'ya ang susuyo, s'ya ang umiintindi. I appreciate my husband a lot and together,
we worked hard for our marriage kaya siguro hanggang ngayon ay matibay pa rin ang
pundasyon.
I saw how girls gaze upon him, may isa pa ngang babaeng kumalabit mula sa
likuran n'ya.
My forehead creased when I saw her talking to him with her flirty smile, my
brow even raised when I saw her lifted her phone.
I watched them and slowly, a smile rose on my lips when I saw how he shook his
head, his cold eyes gazed at her and said something before pointing my direction.
Our eyes met, he winked at me and I saw how the girl shifted her gaze kaya nag-
iwas ako ng tingin, kunwari ay walang nangyayari at tumitig sa lamesa.
"Serafine?" I lifted my head and was shocked when I saw Christian Alfonso, the
son of our dean way back in college, that one who confessed to me and the man Rai
saw before he went away from me.
"Christian." I muttered, umayos ako ng upo at nagulat pa nang naupo s'ya sa
upuan sa harapan ko.
"Kumusta na?" He smiled and I smiled back.
"Good, ikaw?" I asked and he smirked.
"Well, I got a job around here. You? Ang tagal na nating hindi nagkita, ah?"
"I'm doing great, I have a firm here." I said and I saw his mouth parted.
"Wow, really? You deserved it!"
"Thanks," I said softly.
"Mabuti napadaan ako rito, noong una nga akala ko hindi ikaw, mabuti na lang
nilapitan ko." He said and I nodded. "Anyway, may kasama ka bang umupo rito? Dito
na lang ako kung wala."
"Uh, sorry, Christian." I said, "I'm with my husband."
I saw how shocked he was, "o-oh, I see you already have one."
"Hmm," I said and showed him my ring. "I got a kid too."
"Baby," sabay kaming napatingin sa paparating at nakita ko ang madilim na mukha
ni Rai.
"O-Oh, Engr. Miranda?" I saw how shock Christian is upon seeing Rai. Nakita
kong napatayo s'ya sa upuan at inabot ko ang pagkaing dala ng asawa ko at inilapag
sa lamesa.
"Mr. Alfonso," I saw Rai glanced at him, I felt the tension in between them.
"Kayo pala ni Serafine?" He asked and I saw how Rai glanced at me and nodded.
"Yes, my wife." He said and I saw how confused he is.
Sabagay, sino bang hindi magugulat. I became Rai's student when I'm still
studying at may pa-sideline itong daddy ko.

"G-Ganun ba?" He chuckled.

I stood and cleared my throat, marahang hinawakan ko ang kamay ng asawa kong
seryoso bago sumulyap kay Christian, I saw him glanced at my hand on Rai's and his
forehead creased.
 "It was nice seeing you again, Christian, and I'm sorry if we can't talk right
now. Maybe next time?" I smiled. "We're having a dinner date kasi."
"N-No worries." He said, laughing but I see no amusement on his eyes. "Sige,
Sera, Engineer."
"Sorry, Christian."
"Ayos lang." He scratched his brows, glancing at us. "Sige, mauuna na ako."
I smiled and nodded, watched him go and Rai puffed a deep breath kaya I
glanced at him.
"Jealous?" I asked.
"Bakit ang dami mong lalaki, Serafine?" He asked immediately and I suddenly
laughed.
I raised my hand holding his, brought it closer to my lips then glanced at his
eyes.
"Kunwari walang nanghingi ng number mo?" I hissed and we stared at each other
and immediately laughed.
"We gotta do something to your jealousy, daddy Rai." I said and he frowned at
me and placed his hand on my shoulder.
"Well, we gotta do something about your jealousy too, baby girl." He said and I
laughed, elbowed his stomach a bit.
"Excuse me, Miranda. Hindi ako nagseselos, ah!" I exclaimed and hissed at me.
"Iisa-isahin ko nang ipapa-tumba mga lalaki mo," he suddenly muttered and I
gasped, pinalo ko ang t'yan n'ya.
"Ouch! Abs ko!" He groaned and I rolled my eyes.
"May abs ka pa ba? Parang wala naman. Lamon ka ng lamon, eh." I said and he
smirked, slowly assisted me to sit now beside him and lowered to whispered.
"I have, baby, wanna lick later?" He whispered and I shivered when he licked my
earlobe.
"Daddy!" I exclaimed and his laughter roared, sitting beside me before giving
me a naughty wink.
"Ano, game?" He asked and I stared at him and when I saw his brown seducing
eyes, I sighed.
"Sige," I said and he pinched my cheek.
"Ang rupok ni Engineer Miranda." He teased.
"Oh, who's Miranda? Are you referring to yourself?" I asked and he froze and
glared at me.
After that, we went together to a candy shop to buy pasalubong to our daughter.
"Don't spoil your daughter so much, Rai." I said when I saw him now taking more
sweets. "Masira ang ngipin."
"I'm not," he shrugged and took another pack of marshmallows. "She likes it."
"Oo, pero baka mabungi." I shook my head, took some candies he took but he take
it back.
"Sera..." He whined.
"No, Rai." I shook my head. "She likes sweet to much, baka masira ang ngipin!"
"I can control it, tho, itatago ko na lang 'yong iba." He said and I rolled my
eyes.
"Spoiled na si Sugar sa'yo." I said and he sighed.
"Nothing, I just want to spoil her as much as I spoil you." He said. "I don't
want my babies feel neglected."
"Daddy," I called him calmly and his brown eyes stared at me. "You know you're
a great father, right?"

I saw him stared at me, his shoulders loosened up a bit.

"Am I?"
"Of course, you are." I said softly, slowly cupping his cheek. "You loved us
dearly, you take care of us, you never failed showing us how much you care for our
family."
"I just..."
 "You still remembered when she cried because you missed her birthday?" I asked
and I saw him sighed and slowly nodded.
He looked so down and I smiled, touching his cheek.
"Hey, daddy, look at me." I said and slowly, his brown eyes stared at me. "It
isn't your fault you missed her birthday, your flight got delayed. S'yempre,
gugustuhin ba naming lumipad ka pabalik sa'min lalo na kung may bagyo?"
"I just..." He sighed. "It's her sixth birthday."
"She did cry but we explained it to her, right? Your daughter understand it,
Rai." I said softly and he glanced at me.
"She did?"
"Of course," I pinched his nose, "Sugar is understanding, she never got mad at
you, baby."
He sighed, I slowly hugged his waist and lifted my head so I could kiss his
chin.
"Cheer up, hmm?" I smiled at her. "You can buy her candies but not too much,
bungal na 'yong anak mo." I said and he suddenly laughed, lowered his head to kiss
my forehead before taking my hand.
"Alright, thank you, baby." He said and I nodded and winked.
The moment we reached our house, the screams of children filled our ears.
"Wave is here," he said, glancing at the car in the parking.
Hand in hand, we walked inside the mansion and smiled when I saw my seven year
old daughter, Sugar Solana Miranda running towards us.
"Mommy! Daddy!" she exclaimed happily and I smiled upon looking at my husband
catching our daughter to lift her in the air.
"How's my sweet sugar?" He asked and I chuckled when I saw her cheerfully
lifting her hand.
"Dad, I played dolls with Coraline!" She exclaimed, referring to Wave and
Zire's daughter.
"Sera!" My eyes shifted and I chuckled when I saw Wave with Zire and on his
arms is his son.
"Zire!" I exclaimed and walked towards her for a fun talk.
Masaya sana ang usapan yet they had to go kasi may pasok pa ang mga bata
kinabukasan. Habang inaayos ko si Sugar sa kama n'ya ay bigla kong naalala na may
itinawag pala sa akin ang teacher n'ya.
"Sugar?" I called and I saw how her brown eyes stared at me.
"Why po, Mommy?" She asked innocently and before I could talk, the door opened
and Rai entered, wearing his shirt and black pajamas.
"Daddy!" Sugar exclaimed and I saw Rai smiled, walked towards us before sitting
in the side of the bed.
"Hi, baby, how's school?" He asked.
"Fine, daddy." Sugar said softly and my lips protruded and glanced at Rai back
to our child.
"Your teacher called, baby." I said and I saw how Sugar pouted.
Rai glanced at me and I sighed then looked at our daughter.
"She said, you slapped your classmate?" I said.
"What?" Rai's forehead creased, glancing at his daughter who sat on the bed and
pouted.
"I just...kasi daddy and mommy, he said he likes me." She said and my eyes
widen a bit.
"What?" Rai asked, his brows now furrowed. "You're just seven Sugar, hindi pa
pwede ang like-like na 'yan."
"No, dad! I don't like him naman, eh!" She explained. "He told me he likes me
pero I don't want kaya I slapped him." She muttered like a brat.
"Sugar," I called and she glanced at me. "Do you really have to slap your
classmate? If he just told you he likes you, hindi naman siguro tamang sampalin,
'di ba?"
She sighed, her brown eyes stared at me.
"Sorry, mommy... It's just that, he gave me a paper flower and it's so cheap."
She said and I almost coughed at that.
 I saw Rai glanced at me, hiding his smirk.
"Ayon lang, anak? Hindi naman tama iyon." I said and she pouted.
"I have a lot of admirers in school, mommy and they all gave me candies and
stuffs yet he..." She sighed. "He gave me paper flowers and I don't like it, I want
a real one, mommy."
"Sugar..." I warned and she pouted, humihingi ng tulong sa tatay n'ya but when
I glared at Rai, he zipped his mouth shut and bit his lip.
"Dad..." She whined.
"Sorry, baby, I don't want mommy getting mad at me." He said and looked at her.
"We both should have listen."
Sugar pouted more and glanced at me.
"Sorry, mommy. I just don't like him, he thinks he's handsome yet he can't give
me a real flower! My friends says he's poor and I don't like boys like that. I want
rich boys." I almost choke on my own saliva.
"Sugar! Don't be like that!" I exclaimed and she lowered her head and pouted.
"Sorry, mommy." She said in a small voice and I bit my lip, glanced at Rai and
saw him almost laughing at me.
"Hulaan ko kanino nagmana," Rai said in a small voice and I kicked his feet and
glared at him.
"Miranda!" I exclaimed and he laughed but then realized where she got her
attitude.
Serafine Miranda, you got your sweet little karma.